《My Little Sunshine》


 Chapter 1 - Midnight

    In a lavish office situated on the 44th floor of a building sat a man in the president''s chair. Outside the office there was an eerie silence, not a single soul in sight as the office hours had been over long before. It was quiet inside, except for the tapping sound of typing coming from the laptop. He was going through all the emails that required his attention. The office had a touch of modern architecture but it was pretty much dull to the eyes with all the shades of grey paired with black and white. One could see the entire skyline of Berlin at his back through the French floor to ceiling glass windows. He raised his left hand to reach for the coffee mug while typing with his right. Blowing on the coffee, he took a few sips, the coffee running down his throat easing his tensed mind. After a while, he was finally done replying to all the emails that needed his attention. He breathed out a long sigh while massaging the space between his brows with his right hand.


    He took a glance at the metal analog wall clock, realizing that it was already midnight, he decided to give his personal assistant a call to make sure that there was nothing which needed his attention urgently. Reaching for his phone, he stopped midway, smacking himself on his right temple for how could he forgot that she has resigned a day before as she was getting married in a few days. He has asked her to stay back as she was good at doing her job only to be declined.


    "I want to spend the rest of my life with the love of my life. If I continue with the job, I won''t be able to give my family time properly. I am thankful to you for your guidance and help Sir. You helped me when I needed it the most. But I am sorry Sir!", she had replied him when he had asked her to stay back.


    He heaved another sigh thinking about it. Turning his swiveling chair around, he looked at the skyline. He could only see a faint outline of some buildings as most of the lights were switched off. It was a cloudless night. One could see the stars clearly, shining in the distance. It was a full moon tonight. His gaze deepened looking at it, thinking how it stood out among the sea of stars all alone.


    The moon reminded him of his own self. Both of them had no one to depend on, but still they had to come out of their hiding places each day. They had to face the world whether they like it or not. And both of them were alone, on their own in this big world.


    Glancing at the clock once again, he decided to head back to his house. He never called it a home for he thought that it was just a bunch of walls with all the requirements one would need to spend his daily life. He came out of the office and headed down to the parking lot using his personal elevator. Other than the security guards, there was no one else in sight. He walked to his own parking place, got in his Audi A8 and drove back to his place.


    He was greeted by his butler as he entered the place, nodding in response he continued walking to his room on the first floor, only to be stopped by the butler.


    "Young Master, would you like to have something for dinner?"


    "No. I am not hungry.", he replied without stopping in his tracks.


    Once inside his room, he took off his coat, throwing it in the laundry basket, which was followed by his tie and shirt. He walked into his bathroom, getting rid of the remaining clothes, he stepped into the showering area which was made of frosted glass. Washing off the entire''s day tiredness, he stepped out taking a white towel from the rack, wrapped it around his waist. He took another one, drying his hairs on his way out. He walked into his walk-in closet, took out a pair of shorts and a night robe, both in black. He glanced at his reflection in the mirror, only to find a man with slightly bronzed muscular body, a chiseled face with no stubble and deep gray eyes, and a head full of black silky, hairs which were still a bit wet staring back at him.


    After changing into his shorts and robe, he went to bed. Thinking about the things which he had to deal the next day. The most important was going through the interviews of a number of potential candidates, one of them would be selected as his new secretary. His previous secretary has already dealt with the initial stages, eliminating majority of the less qualified candidates.


    He was thankful to her for her hard work, even in the last days before leaving. Finally deciding to close his eyes, he drifted off to his dreamland.

 Chapter 2 - His Past

    He woke up early as usual and went to the gym which was located two doors next to the master bedroom. After spending an hour there, he took a shower, dressed up in an all black three pieces suit and headed downstairs for his breakfast.


    In the dining room, other than the maids serving him his breakfast, nobody else was there. He ate his breakfast quietly and left for the company, driving himself. He hated the idea of having a driver.


    After reaching the building having the logo of Levinson''s Corporation along with the name itself, encrusted in golden color on the top, he drove to the basement and parked his car in it''s usual spot. Taking the elevator specially reserved for the president of the company, he reached the top floor. As he walked out of the elevator doors everyone present there greeted him. He walked down to the office while nodding to them, a faint smile on his face.


    Adam Levinson took over his father''s company after his death, when he was just a 20 year old boy. His mother had passed away while giving birth to him. He was adored by his father, his every wish was fulfilled as soon as it escaped from his lips. He decided to study business so that he could help his father after receiving his degree. During the time he used to accompany his father to the office so that he could get used to the environment and familiarize himself with it.


    The business was booming but on his 20th birthday, he received the news of his father''s death. He was out of the city for an important meeting, but since it was his only son''s birthday, he wrapped up everything as soon as possible so that he could spend the rest of the day with his dear son. But on his way back home from the airport, he got into an accident. A big truck collided with his car, and he died at the moment. Adam came to know that the driver was involved in it as well. That is why he ignored the truck speeding towards the car. That was the day he decided not to ever hire a driver for himself. After taking over the business, Adam made the business flourish more while investing in different fields as it was the only remainder his father had left him.


    --------------


    Reaching his office, he called the receptionist on his floor using the intercom to send in his coffee which he preferred black and without any sugar. When the coffee was sent in, he asked the secretary of his Vice President to send in the candidates as he will carry out the interviews himself.


    The first candidate came in, she looked like a nerd with her big glasses covering half of her face. After two hours or so, he was frustrated. Not even a single one of the ten candidates were able to satisfy him even though they came from prestigious business colleges and were the top students of their classes. He looked at the list of candidates placed in front of him, all the names were crossed out by a red line except for one in the last. He asked the receptionist again to send in the last candidate using the intercom. He waited for her while massaging in between his brows. He didn''t have any hope for the last one as well.


    Soon, there was a knock on the door in followed by a sweet voice, "May I come in, Sir?"


    "Yes."


    The door opened, followed by the clicking sound of heels. He raised his head to see the person and was awestruck by what he saw.


    A girl with a petite figure was standing in front of him. She had the most flawless skin he had ever seen, just like that of a porcelain doll. She had a small face, the size of his palm. A pair of big hazel eyes were prominent on that petite face which stirred up something deep within him. She had dark brown waist length wavy hairs which were tied a pony messily. She wasn''t dressed up formally like all the previous candidates and was wearing a black ripped jeans paired with a maroon crop-top with ''Bite Me'' written on it. Her slim waist was visible which was fair and smooth just like her face.


    He finally realized that it was too quiet, and looked once again at her captivating hazel brown eyes only to find them staring back at him with a slightly raised eyebrows. Only then he realized that he was caught staring at her. He cleared his throat pointing to one of the chairs in front of his desk and said, "You can sit down."


    After she sat down, he asked her name, "May I know your name?"


    "Stella. Stella Martin, Sir!"


    "Tell me about yourself Ms. Stella." He asked her while going through her resume. He was impressed by her achievements so far. She came from a prestigious business college of Berlin. She was the top student in her class, though she doesn''t look like one of those nerds. She had worked before in two different companies for around two years and she was just 20 years old herself. He was impressed by her sincerely.


    "Excuse me, Sir?"


    His thoughts were interrupted by her. That was then he realized that he was lost in his own thoughts while she had probably answered his questions. "I am sorry, I am not feeling well today. But I am truly impressed by your achievements." He said after clearing his throat.


    "Thank you, Sir. I''m honored." She replied.


    "Miss Stella, if you don''t mind can I ask you some business related questions?" He asked her with a faint smile on his face to which she replied, "Sure."


    After asking her some questions for around 15 minutes or so, he was satisfied with all of her answers. He stood up, walked around the table, extended his arm while congratulating her, "Congratulations Miss Stella. You can join in from tomorrow. I know it''s on a short notice but I really need a P.A these days. I hope you don''t mind."


    She stood up and took his hand, giving it a firm handshake. "Thank you! And it''s no problem at all. You can just call me Stella, Sir."


    He realized now that even after wearing heels that were around 3 inches or more, she was still a head smaller than him only reaching up to his shoulders. He smiled politely and replied, "The pleasure is all ours Miss Stella. I mean Stella."


    They drew their hands back at the same time. Adam told her to ask about some details from Bella on her way out which will help her to settle in easily. Bella was one of the secretaries on the top floor outside his office and the only one who didn''t get on his nerves more than that was required.


    After hearing her yes in reply, he showed her the way outside and even held the office door as the door was a heavy wooden door, and also, so that she doesn''t stumble upon her heels.

 Chapter 3 - Spring Breeze

    After seeing her off, Adam came back to his desk, sitting on his swiveling chair, he faced the floor to ceiling glass windows. He gazed outside, a smile threatening to bloom over his face. He breathed out a long sigh, shaking his head sideways slowly, he turned back to face his desk so that he could go through the files which needed his signatures. His gaze fell on Stella''s resume once again, and he couldn''t help but smile thinking of how she carried herself during the interview, how confident she was while answering his questions.


    ''I am looking forward to tomorrow.'' He thought to himself and continued going through the files of different projects. Once he was done going through them, he buzzed Bella through the intercom asking her to bring his lunch to his office since it was already noon.


    Bella delivered his from one of his favorite restaurants soon, he carried it to the bedroom located within his office at the left of his desk. He used it sometimes when he had to stay back at the company to work, or he finished off late and didn''t want to drive. The room was fully furniture. Even the built-in wardrobe was full of clothes, both formal and casual wear. He removed his coat, hanging it properly on the coat hanger at the corner of the room. He freshened up quickly, returning back to the single sofa before which his lunch was placed on the small table.


    After a bunch of tiring hours going through all that statistical data and contracts'' details, he was famished, so he dug in hungrily.


    During the entire meal, his mind kept drifting off to the little girl. He couldn''t understand why, or what was happening to him. Though he hasn''t had a girlfriend before but he has met girls before who were around his age, not once but many times, every single one of them pretty and beautiful, having curves in the right places. Many of them had swoon over him but he had always remained passive and always had kept his distance from them. None of them could even manage to capture his eyes let alone his attention. But there was something different with that little elf which intrigued him, made him wanting to know more about her. There was something about her which intrigued him, attracted him towards her, specially those eyes, those hazel eyes which had their own light, their own glow. He liked the way they glittered in the pale light of his office. The way her lips curled upwards when she smiled thanking him, though it was a formal one, he still liked it.


    "Sigh...!!! What is happening to me?" He exclaimed out loud to himself, running his hands through his hairs in frustration. He decided to go back to his house early since he didn''t have anything left for the day to do, even if he had, it wasn''t like he could have anyways since his mind kept running back to a certain someone.


    Arriving at his place, he decided to do some workout to take his mind off from certain things. (Author: Or a certain someone? Hehehe)


    He changed into his branded sportswear, which was in dark gray color. After heading to the gym, he busied himself in intense workout spending the next two hours within the same room. He was completely drenched in sweat when he was finally done with his rigorous workout. He headed back to his room. Once he was in the bathroom he got rid of his sweaty shirt, exposing his muscular upper body, on which any one could drool over.


    He had a long relaxing cold shower washing down all his frustration of the entire day. After the long shower, his mind was not hazy anymore, making him feel a bit better. He still had some time left for dinner since it was only evening then. He decided to look through his mail, responding to them while delegating some of the works to the Vice President and some managers of different departments. Soon it was time for dinner. After dinner he decided to take off for the day and went to his bed. As soon as he closed his eyes, a pair of hazel eyes popped up, he found himself being drawn to them. He opened his eyes with a jerk, taking deep breaths.


    "I am doomed." He thought out loud. After heaving out a long sigh, he decided to sleep, or at least try to.


    The next day Adam woke early as usual, followed his usual boring routine, and finally reached his office. He was a bit early today, so there were less people around. Entering his office, he sat back in his chair, switching on his laptop. As soon as the clock struck nine there was a slight knock on the door followed by the clicking sound of heels.


    "Good morning Sir. Miss Bella told me I could enter directly in your office after the knocking." In came an angelic voice, making him raise his head from his laptop. And as soon as he did, he scolded himself for doing so as he was once again awestruck completely by the sight before him.


    She was wearing a black fitted jeans, paired with an off-white chiffon blouse which was tucked in, a golden chain belt around her waist supporting the jeans, paired with black heeled boots. Her dark brown hairs were tied up in a messy bun, leaving a few short strands out which fell on her small face, framing it beautifully. Golden loops were dangling from her ears which were neither too big nor too small. Finally he noticed those deep hazel eyes, those eyes which made him lose all his rationality.


    "Umm... Sir?" She said interrupting his thoughts.


    "Ehm.... You were saying something?", he replied.


    "I said you don''t mind it, right? I was just following what Miss Bella told me to." She asked him again.


    "No. You don''t have to ask me every time you enter. Just knock on the door. If I have some problem or am busy doing something, I will just ask you to wait for a minute or so." He replied masking his awestruck expressions with perfection. " Do you get it Stella?" He continued.


    "Yes Sir!" she replied briefly.


    "Have a seat, please, and tell about the day''s schedule. Bella must have given it to you." He asked her politely with a faint smile.


    "Yes Sir. You have a meeting with an important client at around 10 a.m. They have proposed for a collaboration. I have the file related to it. Miss Bella gave it to me yesterday and I went through it at home. I have marked the important points which require your attention Sir." She replied with professionalism while he listened to her with full interest which was something he had never done before, not even to his last P.A.


    Somehow, she reminded him of a spring breeze, fresh and soothing, calming down his nerves which were always tensed up.

 Chapter 4 - The Baffled CEO

    After listening to her, Adam asked her for the file which she had brought in.


    "Thank you Stella." He replied while picking up the file. "You can leave now and carry on with your work. Look through the file of our Golding Housing project. Look for potential partners for that project. Though we aren''t short on money, we still need the connections our investors bring in with themselves."


    "I will look into it Sir. And you have a meeting with a Mr. Liam at lunch Sir." She replied politely.


    He chuckled in response, "I got it but can you please stop calling me Sir in every sentence?"


    "Okay Sir!" Her reply made him raise his eyebrows in response.


    She scratched her head with slightly embarrassed expression on her face, "I mean, okay."


    "That''s good." To him her slightly embarrassed face looked a bit cute than her straight working face specially when she scratched the back of her head.


    "You can leave now, Stella. And go through what I asked you to. I will call you if I need anything from you."


    "Okay, S..." She stopped midway realizing what she was about to say making Adam''s lips twitch slightly.


    She stood up to go outside to her cabin which was situated right outside his office to the left, only to be stopped by him as soon as she reached the door.


    "Oh! Sorry for causing you trouble but can you please ask Bella to send in a cup of black coffee. And also you will be accompanying me in today''s meetings. Okay?"


    She looked like she wanted to say something but decided against it, replying with just an okay and made her way out.


    Adam''s gaze lingered on the door a bit longer even after she had gone out. Heaving out a big sigh, he didn''t know he was holding in. He shook his head sideways, pitying himself.


    ''This little elf is messing with my head.'' He thought to himself.


    Soon Bella brought in his coffee just like the way he preferred, black and sugar less . He decided to go through the file she had given him. He was slightly baffled by what she had done. Every single important point was highlighted by her. Not only that she had even made notes regarding. Every single mistake was marked by her, and she had even corrected them. Not just the calculations but profit, marketing, etc. It looked like he didn''t even have wreck his brain while going through the file and just look once at what she had done.


    ''Just how much potential does the little elf has.'' He thought. At least he made the right decision to hire her as her assistant. He couldn''t help but pat himself on his shoulder inwardly.


    After going through the file he scanned the papers and faxed them to Bella, asking her to ask someone from the staff to make a revised version of it following the notes, and then send them to him along with Stella.


    While waiting for the papers, his mind drifted back to the little lady.


    ''What is happening to me?'' He questioned himself inwardly. '' Why does my mind keep drifting back to her? Ughhh! I never knew a girl could do this to me.'' His phone buzzed as he was lost in his own world contemplating what had happened to him, bringing him out of his reverie.


    He glanced at his phone. It was a message from his best friend. Actually, his only friend.


    "Are you free tonight?"- BC


    "I always am." - Adam


    "I meant work. You are always busy with work. In fact, it would have been good if it wasn''t work you are always busy with."- BC


    "Okay, okay. Stop rambling like a child. Just tell me the place." - Adam


    "The usual place. 9 p.m." - BC


    "Okay. See you there." - Adam


    Just he was done exchanging texts with his best friend, there was a knock on the door. The door opened revealing the person who has occupied his mind since almost two days. Actually, it was even less than that.


    "Here are the revised papers." She said, handing him a blue file. "Bella told me that you asked for me."


    "Yes I did. You did a great job with the papers. You pointed out everything which needed to be and to be honest, there was nothing much I had to other than going through them and forwarding them for revised ones."


    Stella beamed with happiness listening to his words. "Thank you." He didn''t know why but looking at her happy face made him smile as well.


    "Well, you deserve the praise, so there''s no need for thanking me." He said which only made her smile even more. A smile which wasn''t like his usual professional ones which she had given him earlier in the day and the day before after being accepted.


    To him she looked prettier while smiling like that. His lips couldn''t help but turn upwards on their own accord.


    "You can go now Stella and carry on with what you were doing before." He said to her politely.


    She nodded and left.


    Adam was strict towards his staff when it came to work. But at the same time, he also knew when to praise them , especially when they had done an impeccably good job, the way she did. He wondered what other surprises this little lady had for him. He couldn''t help but for the day he would discover her true self completely.


    He knew that something wasn''t right with him. He knew that it was just her achievements and work he admired for he wasn''t lacking in having talented staff members. He had never felt anything like that before, not even for Megan, his previous secretary, who had been by his side for the last four years and was of the same age as him.


    ''Something is definitely wrong with me.'' He sighed, thinking to himself. ''I have to discuss this with Blake. May be he could give me some advice.''

 Chapter 5 - Meetings

    Before 10 a.m., Stella came in to inform him that the other party had arrived for the meeting, and were sitting in the meeting room, receiving a nod from him.


    Adam got up from his seat, took his laptop and the file from the table, heading towards the door. Stella followed his back, keeping a small distance between them. Once he was at the door, he paused in his steps, opening the door only to stand at the side, just like a pure gentleman that he was, so that Stella could step out first.


    Stella raised her head in confusion only to be met by a pair of deep gray eyes that were staring back at her.


    "Ladies first." She heard him say. Giving him a bright smile and whispering a thank you in reply she walked out. He followed her out quietly. On their way to the meeting room none of them said anything. Both were lost in their own thoughts.


    Adam had always been a gentleman. He was brought up that way by his father. His father taught him to respect everyone despite of their status, specially women. Despite being born with a silver spoon in his mouth, he was never a spoilt kid. He was only bit strict when it came to the business.


    Stella was lost in her own thoughts while walking next to Adam. She noticed that he had deliberately slowed down his pace so that she could walk next to him rather than following him like an assistant is supposed to, just like she used to for the last two years. She was a hard-working secretary in two different companies previously. The first company was a big name in timber industry. But her superior was a lady. No matter how much hard work she did, she would still end up getting scolded for something she never did. Later on, she came to know it was just because she had a pretty face. Her female co-workers were jealous of her and ended up creating troubles for her. She has no choice but to resign after a year.


    The second company was a bigger one and was an investment firm. Her boss though treated her good and even appreciated her at times. What she didn''t know was that he had his own motives for doing so. When she realized it, it was already a bit late but she managed to leave that place for her own good.


    Because of her past experiences, she had her doubts towards Adam. May be he was just like his previous boss. Treating her good because he took a liking towards her. In fact he might have accepted her just because of the very sole reason and had underlying motives as well. But she felt something was different about him, but what, she couldn''t put her finger on it no matter how hard she tried.


    As they reached the meeting room, Adam once again opened the door letting her in first, and she stepped in quietly with her head lowered, her eyes boring into the marbled floor.


    Adam started talking to the team while sitting in his usual spot which belonged to the President of the company. Stella sat on his right, opening her laptop to note down the minutes of the meeting.


    "Good morning, gentlemen. I hope you guys are doing well."


    After receiving everybody''s greetings, he continued.


    "I went through the draft sent by your company. I must say that was good but there were some conditions which didn''t set well with me so I changed them. Specially the one related to the partition of profit. I can not agree with it at any cost. Though you guys are investing a lot of money but not more than Levinson''s Corp. Moreover, most of the resources are also provided by us. So, instead of a 60/40 split, I want it to be a 65/35 split. Of course the 65% is for Levinson''s Corp." He said making his staff laugh under his breath.


    Ignoring them, he continued, "This is a revised version of the draft, go through it, if you guys have any sort of questions, please feel free to ask my people here. They will clear up your problems. The contract is already ready, if all is done then you can sign the contract at the moment as well Mr. Anthony. I have another meeting so I will be leaving. Thank you for your precious time. I hope you make a good decision for your company."


    He stood up and made his way to the door , only to realize a little human being was missing from his side. He stopped in his tracks, "Stella?" he said, clearing his throat.


    Stella came out of her dreamland, stood up and made her way out following him. She was a bit confused about what has just happened. Lost in her own world, she didn''t notice that a certain someone had stopped before him.


    Thud!! Her face crashed against a muscular back, her nose become slightly red and her eyes, misty.


    Adam turned around and scolded her politely, "If you have something bothering your mind, just ask me Stella. No matter what it is I will answer it." He raised his voice the slightest bit and continued, " And at least watch where are you going. What if it was a door rather than a living person?"


    "Well! Your back is no less than a door Sir." She replied still rubbing her nose. Her snarky reply made him laugh that echoed within the quiet hallway.


    He wanted to make a sarcastic remark but decided not to when he saw her misty eyes.


    "You alright Stella? Should I call a doctor for you? Uhhh! Of course I should. Why am I even asking such a silly question?"


    Before he could even unlock his phone, he was interrupted by Stella.


    "There is no need for that Sir. It''s just my nose is stinging a bit, that''s why my eyes are tearing up. It will be fine in a while on its own."


    "Are you sure?" Adam asked with concern.


    "Yes Sir! I am sure."


    "Okay. You should go and take some rest and there''s no need for you to accompany me to the lunch meeting."


    "But it''s a meeting..." She tried to speak up but was interrupted midway.


    "It''s just a casual lunch meeting to discuss one of the previous projects. It''s not that much of a big deal. I can handle it on my own. Now off you go. Go take some rest. You can carry later on with your work."


    "As you say, Sir."


    Just as she was about to leave Adam gave her his handkerchief to wipe off her tears which has almost escaped her eyes. Seeing her hesitate, he spoke up, "Just take it, or else my staff is going to think that I bullied a newbie."


    She took it with hesitation. No matter what, he was her boss and she wouldn''t feel comfortable if he was going to be misunderstood because of her. "Thank you."


    "You''re welcome. Now, off you go."


    Adam watched her leaving as he made his way back to his office.

 Chapter 6 - The Golden Corals (1)

    Adam spent the rest of his time in his office going through the remaining work. At noon he went down and drove himself to one of the most lavish restaurants of Berlin.


    He walked in, and just as he thought, Uncle Liam was already waiting for him. Adam could only shake his head, ''What is with this man and arriving earlier than the decided time?''


    Adam was lead by the manager himself to a private room located on the second floor, and was reserved for them.


    As the dark wood doors were opened by a waiter, Adam could see a man in his late fifties, dressed impeccably in a dark navy blue coat and dress pants paired with a white button-down shirt. He still had an imposing aura surrounding him despite his old age.


    ''Dad would have been just like him if he was alive today.'' He thought to himself, a sad smile embracing his lips.


    "Uncle Liam. Good afternoon. I hope you are doing well." Adam greeted the old man politely.


    "Hey kiddo! Since when did you become this formal with me, huh?" He scoffed.


    "Since you started treating me just like your business partners. You dare call my secretary to actually make an appointment for a ''lunch meeting'' with me." Adam scoffed as well mimicking his tone.


    "I know you are busy these days with the business, so I didn''t want to disturb you."


    Adam grimaced in response, "Yeah, yeah! Whatever. And here I thought you misplaced my personal number."


    "Come on Adam! Stop acting like a spoilt kid." Liam reprimanded him. "Now have a seat and order for your food. I have already ordered mine."


    "Wow! So much for courtesy. I am feeling quite honored." Adam rolled his eyes upwards with a dramatic expression while sitting down in front of him.


    He order his food, a waiter listening to him with patience , jotting it down as well. Soon their orders arrived. Both of them chatted happily while having their meals along, discussing business and their personal lives as well.


    Liam or Liam Nelson, was his father''s childhood friend. Adam had grown up before his eyes. After his father, he was sort of a fatherly figure Adam had looked up to. Always asking for his advice whenever he needed one.


    Other than his childhood best friend, Adam only had Liam, whom he could call a family.


    Just like his father, Liam Nelson was also a well known name in the business industry that mostly dealt in marketing and shopping malls.


    After the meal both of them parted their ways.


    Adam decided to go back to his place earlier today since he had nothing else to do for today. He left Bella a text to inform her. Once in the car he thought of informing Stella so that she could go back earlier as well but realized that he didn''t have her contact information. Asking Bella to inform her about it, he drove his car back to his place.


    ''The only perk I have being a President of a big corporation is that I can take off whenever I feel like it.'' He thought driving up the driveway. He stopped his car next to the huge white fountain located in front of the main doors right in the middle of the huge garden covering the vast land. Tossing the keys to one of the guards, he reminded him not to scratch his beauty.


    Making his way up to his bedroom, he freshened up quickly, and decided to go to his study. Reaching there he took out a book related to business from one of the dark wood bookshelves. Sitting on his arm chair, next to the floor to ceiling, he opened the book.


    Around four hours later a certain someone woke up with a jerk. Taking-in his surroundings, Adam realized that he was in his study. ''I must have slept while reading that boring book.''


    Belonging to the business world and having a good grasp of it was one thing but having your own personal interest in it was definitely another thing. For Adam, he stepped into the business world so that he could help his father.


    Glancing at the wall clock he realized he had two hours left. Hurrying his way out back to the master bedroom, he stepped into his Italian styled bathroom. After taking a shower, he made his way to his walk-in closet with only a big white towel wrapped around his lower half which hung low on his waist revealing his abdominal muscles, the water droplets glistening under the white lights.


    He changed into a navy blue, full-sleeved t-shirt with a v-shaped neckline and paired it with a light gray fitted jeans.


    After wearing a pair of white Adidas sneakers, he opened the drawer of his left bedside table, taking out the key of his most favorite car. He headed downstairs and informed the butler that he won''t be eating at home tonight and will be coming late.


    "You can go to bed early Uncle Rob. And please don''t wait up for me like the last time." Saying goodnight to the old butler he made his way out to the parking garage. Driving out his darling, he drove down the driveway speeding all the way to ''The Golden Corals''.

 Chapter 7 - The Golden Corals (2)

    A black Maserati stopped before a high end club. A handsome man stepped out, handing the keys over to the vallet.


    People had to identify themselves before entering in. Other than being rich, one had to have an affluent background to have access to the club. Every single person must have their own membership cards to enter. people could invite as many of their friends as they want but they would be held responsible for any sort of damage done to the property by one of their guests. Apart from such restrictions, the place had its own benefits. It seemed like another world within itself. There were three different levels in total. The ground floor held general bar area where people could enjoy themselves drinking till they loose count or their conciousness . The first floor was a high end bar area where every expensive alcohol known could be found along with private rooms which people could book after spending a good amount of money. The second floor had a few VIP private rooms that could only be used by the owner or his family members and close friends.


    Adam walked in without paying any heed to the people who were now staring at him. He walked straight to the private elevator which opened directly at the second floor.


    He entered one of the VIP private rooms which was only used by the owner of the club. Apart from him only Adam was allowed to use the room even in his absence.


    As soon as Adam walked in, someone jumped on him making him fell down on the ground with a loud thud.


    "Have you lost it, man?" Adam groaned in pain.


    "I am the one who has lost it? No dude! it''s obviously you who has. This what your friendship is like. This is how you treat your childhood friend who also happen to be your best friend, huh?" Blake shouted back at him.


    "Okay! I am sorry! Now stop acting like girl whose boyfriend was caught cheating and let me get up at least." Adam scoffed.


    Blake helped him up. Adam dusted himself, giving him a glare and punched him right in his stomach.


    "Uggghh! This is how you thank your best friend for making you forget your dull life for a night?"


    "Whatever!" Adam replied while sitting down on a dark maroon sofa, making himself easy.


    "Let''s order our drinks then we can talk easily without anyone''s interference." Blake said.


    "Hmm." He only hummed in response.


    After ordering for their favorite wines, they waited for their arrival.


    "There''s something I have to discuss with you but not now. After our drinks I will tell you about it." Adam spoke out of nowhere.


    "Sure." Blake shrugged in response.


    Blake Collins and Adam were childhood friends. They knew each other since kindergarten. Growing up together all these years, both of them knew the other like the back of their own hands. Blake was perhaps the only person before whom Adam would always act casually, not like the President of a big corporation.


    Soon their drinks were served, and Blake asked the servers to leave the room.


    Adam picked up his glass, brought it to his eye level, swirling the dark red liquid in it around, finally taking a sip. He heaved out a contented sigh. He leaned back against the sofa, enjoying his drink quietly. None of them spoke up, enjoying their drinks in silence. Blake knew that if Adam wanted to tell something, he eventually would once he was in the mood. So, he gave him his time and peeked a glance at his best friend sitting across him.


    A tall, lean man sitting lazily on a big sofa which could easily fit four people like a King sitting on his throne. His right hand held the glass, his long slender fingers wrapped around the stem of the wine glass from which he would occasionally take a sip while the other hand was resting at the back of the sofa. His black silky hairs were disheveled, falling down on his forehead. Those deep gray eyes looking outside through the windows. One look at him could make any girl crazy over him.


    ''How can he look so good even in such casual clothes?'' Blake rolled his eyes thinking to himself.


    "Stop staring at me or you will fall in love with a guy." Adam spoke up suddenly, turning his head back to the idiot sitting in front of him.


    "Stop being so full of yourself." Blake retorted back. "What was that you want to talk to me about?" He continued.


    "Well, ummm.... I have a new assistant." Adam replied.


    "So, what about it?"


    "She''s a girl." Adam replied.


    Blake gave him a questioning look as if asking him to continue.


    "Well, she''s pretty good at her job. Though it''s been just day, but she has a good grasp of business. In addition to that she''s also hard-working. She''s a bit small though. I...." Adam spoke but was interrupted by Blake.


    "You like her."


    "What? No. There''s no way I can like her. Moreover, I just met her yesterday for the first time." Adam scoffed taking a big gulp from his glass.


    "You definitely do man. I know you since we are kids. You have never praised anyone before. Not anyone from your staff, even that previous assistant of yours and she worked by your side for four years. And just for the record she was pretty as well. I would have made a move on her long before if it wasn''t for you stopping me. So, you definitely has some feelings for her. Now, start spilling the beans." Blake gave him a sly smile.


    Adam filled his glass upto the brim and emptied it in two big sips, falling deep into his thoughts looking outside again.


    Blake saw that and choose to stay quiet, letting the other man clear out his thoughts a bit. Knowing him for so long, Blake already had an inkling of what his reply would be, but still waited patiently for him to speak up.

 Chapter 8 - Give It A Try!

    After a few minutes, Adam finally broke his silence. "I don''t know whether I like her or not. But there is definitely something different about her. Something which attracts me towards her, making me curious to know more about her. I want to know about her personal life, her choices, what she likes and what she doesn''t. I don''t know what is happening to me. I have never felt about someone like this. And it''s not just because she''s beautiful, although she is really beautiful. But it''s like, there''s more to her, and I want to know it all."


    "It looks like you are interested in her. This was bound to happen one day, sooner or later. Look at you, you are 24 years old but haven''t been in a relationship. Not even one. There were girls in the past who were interested in you, but you never even bothered to lay a single glance at any of them. Even now you keep a good distance from all those socialites who keep trying to get close to you during banquets." Blake replied, leisurely sipping his wine.


    "All those plastic beauties want is this face and the wealth that accompanies it." Adam scoffed.


    "But it looks like there is finally someone who managed to get your attention just in one day." Blake replied.


    "It''s actually at the first meeting, not in one day." Adam replied with a lopsided smile.


    "Hahahahaha! Hold your horses man. What about her? Is she interested in you?" Blake asked, laughing.


    "Do you think we would be having this discussion if that was the case?" Adam rolled his eyes in response. "She isn''t like those girls who jump at the sight of a handsome man, right to him. Moreover, I have felt that she has her guards up against me." He continued.


    "What did you do the poor girl?" Blake asked only to receive a deadly glare in response making hit raise his hands up in the air. "I am just kidding dude, Calm down. Maybe it''s related to her past. You have the resources to look into it. Just do it then."


    "No. That''s her private matters and I don''t want to do such a thing. If she wants to tell me about it anytime in the future, I am all ears. But I won''t look into it on my own accord." Adam replied in a serious tone.


    "Okay, but what will you do then?" Blake asked testing the waters.


    "I don''t know man." Adam heaved out a frustrated sigh, running his hands through his hairs. He poured himself another glass and gulped it down quickly.


    "Take it easy, I have never seen you drinking like this before. You are going to get drunk like this and it''s not the weekend tomorrow. You still have to go to office tomorrow." Blake said stopping him before he poured himself another glass. "You have already had more than two glasses."


    "I know that you idiot. I just don''t know what to do. She keeps popping up in my thoughts out of nowhere. I have tried busying myself, but it didn''t help out. It doesn''t matter how much work I drown myself in, it still happens. And it''s just been two days. Just two days and I am going crazy over here. You know how I feel when things go out of my control." Adam replied with frustration.


    "Why don''t you give it a try?" Blake advised him.


    "Give what a try?" Adam asked in confusion.


    "Look man, it''s pretty obvious that you have taken a liking to her for whatever reason. So why not give it a try, huh?" Blake smiled.


    "EXPLAIN!" Adam shouted in response.


    "Where does your intelligence go in these situations? What I mean is that you can try knowing her. Try to get close to her a bit and see where it goes to. If something is meant to happen it will. Let things go with their own flow. But you have to at least give it a try." Blake explained to him with patience.


    He knew that no matter how much brain his best friend had, it came down to nothing in these situations. Even during their high school, it was him pointing him about all those girls after him, bringing him gifts and stuff. He had a thick skull when it comes to things like pursuing or being pursued and had a hard time understanding things.


    He finally saw Adam nodding his head while thinking about something, "You have a point. I will do as you said."


    "I always do." Blake said with a smug smile on his face.


    "Shut up!" Adam scoffed.


    Blake rolled his eyes backwards in response and chose not to reply to him.


    Since it was already late at night, they ordered a bunch of dishes to eat and soon the dishes arrived. Both of them ate in silence. Blake knew Adam was still a bit lost about what he should do or how, but he didn''t disturb him, giving him all the time he needed. ''This guy has to do something for himself at least once in his life and that too his way.'' Blake thought looking at Adam who was quietly eating his meal while his mind was clearly somewhere else.


    When they were done with their dinner, Adam decided to take his leave since it was already midnight and he had to go to the office the next day. He stood up to leave.


    "Thanks for today, I owe you one." Adam said, giving his friend a big smile.


    "It''s actually not that of a big deal. I enjoyed tonight as well. It''s not like that I get to see the great Adam Levinson so messed up and frustrated everyday." Blake chuckled.


    ''This idiot is getting on my nerves today.'' Adam thought. "Here I was thinking to give you a big reward in return for your help today, but now, I don''t feel like giving you anything in return." Adam replied with a sly grin.


    Blake scratched his head and replied meekly, "I was just kidding man. You know me so well. Don''t you? I always like joking with you. So, you can just ignore whatever nonsense I just spoke."


    Adam ignored him and headed to the door, "I will see you later. Good night!" He walked away ignoring his sulking friend.


    He drove back to his place,freshened up and laid down on the king sized bed. He closed his eyes and drifted off to his dreamland.

 Chapter 9 - Complex Feelings

    Adam woke up the next day with a mild headache. ''I shouldn''t have drunk that much last night.'' He groaned, holding his head with his hands.


    He glanced at the wall clock, cursing himself, he dragged his body to the bathroom. ''I am going to be late for the first time in four years. Just great.''


    Taking a quick shower, he dressed up and headed downstairs, almost running.


    "Sorry Uncle Rob but I won''t be able to have breakfast at the moment." He spoke politely to the old butler while putting on his cufflinks.


    Just as the butler opened his mouth to reply, Adam interrupted him once again, "Don''t worry, I will definitely eat something at the office."


    He scurried off bidding his goodbye to the old butler. Adam reached the company in twenty minutes speeding all the way. Usually it took him around 40 minutes since his place was located in the outskirts of the city, away from the hassle of city life.


    ''Ding.'' At the top floor of Levinson''s Corp. the elevator doors of the President''s private elevator opened. Adam came out and headed to his office under the weird gazes of his employees which accompanied their greetings. He ignored them and entered his office.


    He couldn''t help but think about it. Shrugging it off, he buzzed Stella through the intercom.


    Two minutes later Stella came in along with a bunch of files for him. He asked her to sit, not daring to look at her for longer than required.


    Going through the files, he could feel a pair of eyes belonging to a certain someone, staring intently at him.


    "What is it Stella?" He asked politely.


    "Nothing Sir."


    He raised his head after listening to her reply, looking at her with his eyebrows raised, "What did I tell you yesterday?"


    "That I can ask you anything?" She replied which sounded more like a question itself rather than the answer to his question.


    "Yes, and you can say whatever you like to me if you want rather than trying to hold it in and staring at me without blinking." Adam replied to see her purse her lips on being caught. "Now, are you going to tell me?"


    "It''s actually nothing Sir." She replied with her head lowered slightly.


    "What is wrong with my entire staff today?" Adam heaved out a sigh.


    "Maybe it''s not them, It''s you." Stella replied which was more like a whisper.


    "Uhh...what?" Adam was a bit confused.


    "You said that I can speak out my thoughts?." She asked him carefully and only continued when he gave her a firm nod in reply. "Actually, there''s nothing wrong with them. You forgot to wear your tie today, and looking at the people outside it''s probably your first time doing that Sir. To top it off you are also half an hour late today and your hairs are still a bit damp and slightly disheveled, looking as if you must have used your hands today instead of a hairbrush."


    Adam was slightly dazed looking at those hazel eyes which twinkle the tiniest bit whenever she moved her head while talking. This was probably the first time she had spoken this much before him in one go except for her interview. He was brought back to the present when she blinked at him in confusion.


    "So, that''s the reason everyone was staring at me as if I have grown a pair of horns on my head." Adam replied with a low chuckle which was deep and soothing.


    His response made Stella laugh a bit as well, "You won''t actually look that bad with a pair of horns on your head."


    Adam stiffened in his seat as if he was struck by lightning. It was the first time he had found a girl''s laugh pleasant to his ears.


    Adam looked at her with complex feelings in his eyes. ''Do I really like her? But I don''t even know anything about her other than her name and academics. How can I like someone just like that?''


    "Sir?" Stella brought him out of his dreamland.


    "Are you okay? You don''t look well."


    "Yeah! I am just having a mild headache. Can you ask someone to send in some painkillers along with a light breakfast." Adam asked her politely with a faint smile just like his usual self.


    "Sure Sir." She replied and hurried out.


    Adam''s gaze stayed on the closed door as he was brought back to an old memory.


    ------------------------


    *FLASHBACK*


    A thirteen year old young Adam stood before a grave with his father next to him. It was his mother''s death anniversary.


    "Dad! You always say that you loved Mom more than anything else in the world." He asked the man next to him.


    "I still love your Mother even though she''s not with me." His Dad replied slowly.


    "How did you know that you love her and that you want to spend the rest of your life with her?" Adam asked while looking at the grave stone.


    "You just know it." His Dad replied with a faint smile on his lips.


    "But how?" Adam was not satisfied with his answer.


    "There''s never a how or why Adam. You don''t understand it now, but you will one day, when someone will enter in your life with whom you are meant to spend your life." His Dad gave him a big smile, ruffling his hairs to which the boy grimaced.


    *FLASHBACK ENDS*


    ------------------------


    Adam heaved out a long sigh, running his hands through his hairs.

 Chapter 10 - Just The Two Of Us

    Stella came back after 10 minutes with a man in tow. "Sir, your breakfast and painkillers."


    "Place them in the bedroom." Adam replied.


    "Okay Sir." Stella led the man to the room and placed the things on the table before the sofas.


    She returned back outside, "It''s done, Sir. You should eat something first before taking the painkillers. It''s not good to take them on an empty stomach." She spoke politely. She could sense that something was not right with him. He seemed a bit lost and tired.


    Adam nodded in response, "Thank you Stella. You can leave now and carry on with your work."


    Stella nodded, turning around to leave but was stopped by Adam."And about the files, I will read them in a bit and sign them. I will call you to pick them up after I get done with them."


    "There''s no need for that. There isn''t anyone that requires your urgent attention. You should take some rest after breakfast." She replied with a smile. "Health comes first, Sir. If you suddenly fall I''ll who''s going to look after the entire corporation." She added.


    Adam asked her in reply with a big smile on his face, " Are you getting worried about my health now?"


    "N-No. I-I mean of course since you are my boss. Your well being ensures the well being of the company." She replied stammering.


    "You are right." Adam replied, sighing internally. ''She only takes me as her boss.''


    "What about the Golding Housing Project?" He continued.


    "I have found a number of potential companies we can collaborate with. There are some companies that are contacting us as they want to collaborate with us. But I still need some time to get done with it." She replied.


    "Okay. There''s no need for you to worry about time. You still have till the end of next week. By then, I want the complete report on my desk."


    "Okay Sir." She replied.


    "You can go now. And thank you once again." He smiled at her.


    "You don''t have to thank me, it''s my job." She said in response. " And I will make sure no one disturbs your rest." She continued.


    Adam only nodded in response. Stella made her way out leaving Adam alone to deal with his thoughts.


    Adam stood up making way to the room. He sat down on the sofa and started eating the French toast that was brought in a while earlier along with a cup of English tea by the little lady who has been messing with his head these days.


    He started eating while his mind was still stuck somewhere else.


    ''What can I do to make her think of me as not just her boss but someone who means something more to her. I have to do something, anything. I can not just sit idle now, especially not when I know that I like her.'' Adam ate quietly, having a monologue with himself.


    ''I am going to win her over anyhow. But first, I have to know more about her. But the important question is ''how''? She doesn''t even speak to me more than what is required.''


    "Well, you could have her investigated." A tiny Adam dressed up in red with two horns on his head popped up on his left shoulder.


    "Don''t listen to him! You should try on your own." Another little Adam popped up on his right shoulder but he was dressed in white with a halo ring above his head.


    "You should listen to me. Otherwise, how are you going to know about her?" The devil Adam spoke up in his defense.


    "No! What if she doesn''t like it? You will be invading her personal space without her knowledge." Angel Adam spoke up again.


    They continued their argument until Adam shrugged them off his shoulders. "I have completely lost it. I have gone mad. I have started hallucinating things now." He thought out loud to himself. "I should have some rest, I need it badly."


    He finished his breakfast, took two painkillers and went to bed.


    When he woke up, it was already late and office hours were over. He was utterly shocked knowing that he had slept straight for 8 hours. He didn''t use to sleep this much even at night.


    ''But it feels so great. Looks like I really needed it. I feel refreshed now.'' He smiled while thinking.


    "Shit!!! The files." Realization dawned on Adam that he had some work to do. ''But Stella did say that they aren''t anything urgent.'' He shrugged it off. ''I will just do them after freshening up.''


    Taking casual clothes from the closet, he headed to the bathroom. He came out 20 minutes later, dressed up in a white full-sleeved t-shirt paired with black workout trousers. He dried his hairs a bit with the help of a small towel quickly.


    Coming back to his office, he took out a pair of black rimmed glasses and wore them. He sat down on his chair to work but was stopped by a growling sound coming from his stomach.


    ''I should eat something first.'' He thought and decided to head to the cafeteria.


    He stopped in his tracks once he was outside of his office. There was complete silence and most of the lights were even closed on the floor. But a cabin next to his office still had it''s lights on.


    ''Isn''t that Stella''s room?'' Adam thought while change the direction of his steps. He couldn''t help but walk towards her cabin. ''Who could be in there at this hour?'' He continued to walk in it''s direction and opened the door slowly without making any sort of noise, and was stunned at what his eyes saw.


    Stella was sitting in her chair while working on her laptop with her head lowered slightly. He knocked on the door breaking her concentration. Stella looked up with a frown in between her delicate brows.


    "Good evening, Sir." She stood up seeing Adam at the door.


    "Good evening, but what are you doing here at this hour?" He asked her with his eyes narrowed slightly.


    "I still had some work to do and you were still here, so I decided to stay back and get my remaining work done." She replied him.


    Adam looked at her quietly. The whole floor was engulfed in silence since everyone else had headed back to their homes.


    ''Looks like it''s just the two of us here now.'' He thought to himself, a smile threatening to bloom over his lips.

 Chapter 11 - A Date???

    "I am sorry. I usually don''t sleep this much." Adam apologized meekly, scratching the back of his head. "But you shouldn''t have stayed back." He added.


    "It''s not a big deal, Sir." Stella replied politely.


    "I was heading downstairs to grab a bite, would you like to join me?" Adam decided to make the most of the situation. ''Since I want to know more about her, I have to spend time with her.'' He thought.


    "It''s alright, I will order something for myself. Thank you." She declined his offer.


    ''CRAP! Think Adam, think. You don''t know when you will have another chance if you let this one go.'' He cursed himself.


    "Yes you can, but it will take sometime, especially at this hour. The roads are usually packed at this time." He replied with a faint smile, praising himself for thinking such an exceptionally good excuse. ''She can not decline me now. She''s buying it, I can see the struggle on her face.''


    Before Stella could say anything, he added, "It''s not like I am going somewhere else. I am just going downstairs to the cafeteria."


    "Isn''t it supposed to be closed at this hour?" Stella asked with confusion.


    "It is, but not for me. Are you forgetting that I am the boss?" He smirked.


    Stella shook her head sideways meekly in reply.


    "Then shall we go now?" Adam asked, his hand pointing towards the hallway only to get a nod in reply. ''Ahh! I need to make her feel comfortable around me so that she can at least talk a bit more around me.''


    Both of them walked to the elevator quietly next to each other. It was the first time that Stella got to use Adam''s private elevator.


    Reaching the 22nd floor, they exited, one after the other. They soon entered the cafeteria, but Adam kept walking across the hall entering another room which turned out to be the kitchen.


    Once they were in the kitchen, Adam called out, "Bob? Where are you old man? I am hungry and I need food. Oh and I have a guest with me as well."


    "You are the old one here. Who the hell are you calling old, huh?" A man in his early forties came out, almost screaming at the top of his lungs.


    "Easy man. We have a company here, at least respect the little lady." Adam replied with a chuckle.


    "You finally found yourself a girlfriend, and a pretty one too." Bob exclaimed giving him toothy smile.


    Adam glanced at Stella briefly, her cheeks tinged a shade of light pink. ''Oh, so she knows how to blush. She looks cute though. But now is not the right time to enjoy seeing her flushing.''


    "Bob! She''s my new assistant, not my girlfriend." He replied. ''Well not yet though.'' He thought the later part to himself.


    "Okay, okay. And here I thought, I finally had something to celebrate. Well, what would you like to eat lad?" He asked Adam.


    "Surprise me as usual." Adam smirked.


    "And what will this pretty girl be having?"


    "Umm¡­. I will have whatever Sir is having." She replied meekly.


    "As you say mademoiselle." Bob smiled at her politely.


    "Her name is Stella, stop making her uncomfortable. And Stella, meet Bob. Bob Rodriguez. He''s the head chef of our kitchen, but he usually just supervise and only cook for me." Adam said slowly, introducing the two of them.


    "Hello Stella. It''s lovely to meet you. Why don''t you accompany this stupid boss of yours and wait out there? I will be done soon and bring out your dishes." Bob gave her a toothy smile.


    Stella just nodded in response. Adam led her out back to the sitting area and pulled out a chair for her. She sat down quietly.


    Adam sat opposite her, "What is it Stella?"


    Stella pursed her lips, then opened them, "Umm¡­ You wear glasses Sir?" She asked him, her eyes wide, looking at him intently.


    Adam was stunned for a moment then spoke up, "Yeah! I am a bit short sighted. But I wear them once in a while." He took a pause then continued, "Why do you ask ? Don''t I look good with these on?"


    "No. I mean you actually look a bit younger with these on. Moreover, I have never seen you in casual before. You don''t look like your usual self today." Stella replied, gathering her thoughts.


    "My usual self ?" Adam asked with his eyebrows raised, gray eyes looking back at those hazel ones.


    "The aloof CEO, Sir." Stella replied nodding her head.


    Her reply made Adam laugh hysterically which echoed through the quiet hall, making her eyebrows furrowed.


    "Never trust what you hear in the news. They manipulate things for their own benefits." Adam said, trying to control his laughter. "You will know that whether I am aloof or not, sooner or later in the coming future little lady."


    "Who are you calling a little lady?" Stella asked him with a pouty face.


    Adam looked at her amusingly, "Do you see anyone else here other than you and me?"


    Stella scowled at him, "No, Sir."


    "The office hours over Stella. Stop calling me Sir." Adam was a bit annoyed at her. ''Why does she have to add Sir to every sentence.?''


    "But-" She said but Adam interrupted her. "No buts."


    "Okay." She relented.


    Soon Bob arrived with their dishes. Putting them down before them, he exclaimed, "Bon appetit." and disappeared back to the kitchen.


    "Ss- I mean since Bob cooks for you then why did Bella ordered for your food from a restaurant the day I interviewed?" Stella asked him out of nowhere.


    "Because it was his granddaughter''s birthday, so he took off and went to see her. He just returned this morning. And before you ask, yes, he was the one who made my breakfast today. Now eat before the food gets cold." Adam answer her queries with patience.


    Both of them started eating in silence with Adam discreetly glancing at her once in a while.

 Chapter 12 - Not On His Watch

    After getting done with their meal, both of them returned back to their respective cabins.


    Adam busied himself in the files, losing track of time. He only bothered to look up when the door of his office was knocked. He had an idea of who it might be.


    "Yes Stella. Do you need something?." He asked her with a smile.


    "No Sir. I just brought you some coffee. It''s almost 9 and you are still working. So, I thought you might need it." She replied politely.


    It was only then that he noticed the small tray in her hands with his cup on it, steam blowing out from it. "Thank you so much for being so considerate of me." Adam gave her a big goofy smile.


    "And what happened to not calling me Sir after office hours?" He asked, raising a brow at her when she was placing the cup before him.


    "It''s just that I am not used to address you without it." She replied.


    "I know. But you will get used to it with time. All you have to do is start calling me by my name." Adam spoke slowly as if he was talking to a child.


    "But---" She only spoke a word just to be interrupted by him, "No buts. And I am just asking you to call me by name after office hours. Come on, you can do that. It''s not that hard."


    "O-okay." Stella reluctantly agreed to him.


    "Okay what?" He wasn''t going to let her go this easily, not unless she called him but his name. He didn''t know why but he wanted to know how would his name sound coming from her mouth. ''Say it, just say it Stella, please!'' He was almost begging her internally.


    "Okay A-A-Adam." She said, his name almost a whisper, but he still caught at it.


    "Huh?" Adam feigned innocence as if did not hear it.


    "I said, okay Adam." She almost rolled back her eyes at him.


    He was stunned for a moment. They way she had said Adam, made him realize that not even once he had found his name coming out from another person''s mouth to be so melodious. Or maybe it wasn''t his name but her voice who was this melodious.


    "That''s more like it." He said. "Are you done with your work by the way?"


    "Almost, there''s only a bit left, I leave after doing that." She replied.


    "Then why don''t you bring it over here? I am kind of getting bored here. I will do mine and you can do yours. And then we can leave." He suggested politely taking a sip of his coffee. ''Hmm, she makes a good coffee.'' she sighed softly.


    "Umm¡­ Okay." She replied hesitatingly.


    Stella left and came back in two minutes with her laptop and and a file. She sat down across him and put down her stuff.


    They both busied themselves in their own work. Adam sipped on his coffee every now and then, taking tiny glances at her from behind his coffee mug. She had her head down, reading something with full concentration.


    ''I wish that someday, I will be able to hold all of your interest.'' He thought to himself.


    He was already done with his work but since he saw she was still busy doing something on her laptop, he decided not to disturb her.


    He logged into a word game and played it for a while but soon got bored. He then glanced at the girl before him, his eyes tracing her petite features, taking in her every expression and storing them in his memories. The way her eyes widen a bit as if she had discovered something new, the way her brows furrowed as if she wasn''t pleased with what she saw, the way her tongue licked her lips every now and then to moisten them, he liked every single thing about her.


    ''You are definitely doomed Adam.'' He pitied himself inwardly.


    "Why do you have so much work? I don''t remember assigning that much to you." He couldn''t help but ask her.


    "It''s actually assigned by the Vice President." She replied without looking up at him.


    "When did he assign it to you?" He asked.


    "Today." She replied.


    "And when do you have to submit it?" He investigated further.


    "Tomorrow morning." His brows furrowed deeply listening to her reply.


    ''Looks like it is time to make some changes around here.'' He was aggrieved.


    "Stop it! You don''t have to do this work." He stopped Stella moving it slightly aside.


    Before she could speak up, he continued, "He has his own assistant. He could have asked her to do it. In fact, it should have been her to do this work, not you, if not for the fact they have screwing each other around. She gets paid for her the job she doesn''t do."


    Stella''s eyes widened a bit registering what Adam had just told her.


    "Next time be aware of what happens around you. The entire office knows about this. And more importantly, you are my assistant, not his. You will only do the work which I tell you to, not what others say. Get it?" He was slightly angered.


    Stella only nodded meekly.


    ''How could she just let others use herself? If it wasn''t for me asking about it, I would have never known about it and all the credit must have gone to his assistant.''


    "Go pack your things right now, and don''t worry about the matter, I''ll handle it my way. And I''ll make sure that no one else will bully you again just because you are new." He added, his tone was a bit more polite than before.


    "Okay." She said and left to get the rest of her belongings.


    Adam stood up after she left, he walked to the floor to ceiling glass wall, watching in the distance. His eyes were fierce now.


    ''I have been ignoring what that sleazeball has been doing for so long just because he had been by my Dad''s side for so long. But not anymore. He dared to bully the little elf, I will make sure he regrets it, along with that secretary of his.'' He was angered to the bones this time.


    ''No one can bully his staff, especially not the little elf. No one can bully her, not on his watch.''

 Chapter 13 - Hop-in

    Picking up his phone and car keys, Adam headed outside. He found Stella coming out with her stuff in her hands. They headed downstairs taking the elevator. Outside the building''s entrance, Adam asked her, "How are you going to return back home?"


    "I usually take the bus, but since it''s late, I''ll have to take the subway." Stella replied.


    "What? No! It''s too late. You aren''t taking anything. I''ll drop you off." He exclaimed in response.


    "It''s alright! I am used to it. So, it won''t be a problem for me." She replied politely.


    "No way. It doesn''t matter whether or not you are used to it, I am not going to let you go home alone at this hour. Not in the bus or the subway." Adam was adamant.


    ''How could I let her be on her own, and that too late.'' He thought furrowing his brows.


    "Where do you live by the way?" Adam spoke without giving her a chance to say anything.


    Stella told him her address to which he replied, "That''s great. I live close to that place, so, I will drop you off."


    "But---" Stella was cut off once again by a certain someone, "It won''t be a problem for me since I am going in the same direction. You have no reason to decline me now."


    Stella could only reply with an okay to the unrelenting man before her who always wanted things to go his way.


    "Stay right here, I bring out my car." He said heading to the underground parking lot.


    In less than two minutes, a sleek black car stopped before Stella, the window on her side rolled down, "Hop-in."


    Stella sat inside quietly and fastened her seat belt.


    The car headed to its first destination for the night. It was uncannily quiet inside the car. Adam decided to strike up a conversation.


    "So, you live alone or with your family?"


    "No, it''s just me." Stella replied looking outside.


    "No roommates?" Adam was adamant to know more about her.


    "No. At least not at the moment, but there was one. We used to share the apartment but then she left and moved in with her boyfriend around three months ago." She replied calmly, still looking outside the window glass, deep in her thoughts.


    The only response Adam gave her was an ''Oh''.


    Stella actually came from a well off family. She was an only child and was adored by both of her parents. But when she was eleven, she lost both of her parents in a car accident. They had gone to attend a party. They wanted Stella to go with them but she wasn''t in the mood that day so she stayed back at home with her maternal aunt. When the news of their death came, the little girl was utterly devastated. It was as if she had lost her entire world in just one night.


    She spent her next few days locked up in her room, refusing to eat or drink. Her aunt had to take  her to a psychologist. Though she did return to her normal daily routine after a couple of sessions but she was never the same again. The lively young Stella who always caused troubles for others was no more. It was as if she had suddenly grown up.


    Two months after her parent''s death, she was taken under the care of her paternal uncle. He was married and had two children of his own, a boy and a girl. Therefore, Stella never got treated fairly. Whenever the children had a fight, she was the one receiving the shorter end of the stick.


    She worked harder and harder, striving for success, just so she could leave that hell hole. And there she was today, working in one of the biggest corporations of Germany.


    Stella was reminiscing about her past when a deep voice brought her back to the present.


    "Stella? I asked you something."


    "Huh?" She was confused as she did not hear what he had said.


    "Where are you lost to? I said there''s this product launch by the end of this week. There will be a banquet after the ceremony. I am invited too, as they once collaborated with us in the past. So, would you like to accompany me that day?" He asked while looking ahead on the road.


    "I don''t like such events. I am sorry." She apologized.


    "It''s not like that I like them. I actually don''t at all. If I could, I would stay cooped up in my place, reading a good book. But I don''t have a choice sometimes, actually most of the times. So, I have to go and show my face." Adam tried to reason with her. "And since you are my assistant, you can accompany me there. Please don''t say no."


    "What if I do say no?" She asked with an amusing smile on her face, her brows raised up ever so slightly.


    "Umm¡­ then I will come to your place and force you to go with me." Adam chuckled looking at her. "It''s not like that I don''t know where you live."


    Stella brows raise a bit more as her smile deepened, "Oh, really?"


    "Yeah. The thing is, I will be bored to death there. I don''t like such events because all they talk is about business. Why bother throwing a banquet or a party when you want to talk about business?" Adam replied. "And I like your company, so I will be less bored."


    "I never knew that a businessman like you can get bored while talking about business." Stella said to which Adam replied with a pitiful smile on his face, "That''s the thing. People don''t know about the 20 year old boy who took over the Levinson''s Corp. four years back. They only know Adam Levinson, the President of Levinson''s Corp."


    Stella looked at him, as if trying to find something hidden behind his expressions. "Okay. I will accompany you, but there''s one condition." She spoke up after a minute.


    "What condition?" Adam was delighted to hear her answer. ''I would agree to anything as long as she accompanies me.'' He thought to himself.


    "I won''t dress up. I don''t like wearing those fancy gowns." She said turning her head to look ahead through the car''s windshield.


    "That''s it? Okay. I agree. You can wear whatever you like." Adam was over the clouds.


    There weren''t many cars on the road as it was a bit late. Adam stopped the car outside her apartment''s building.


    Stella stepped outside and turned back, "Thanks Adam." She said with a big smile on her face.


    "You''re welcome. Now go inside."


    Adam only drove away once he saw her enter the building.

 Chapter 14 - Hand Me Your Phone

    Next day, Adam arrived at the office on time. He was greeted by Bella on his way to his office, "Good morning, Sir."


    "Morning Bella." He replied to her politely.


    "Sir, Stella hasn''t arrived yet. If you need anything, you can call me." She informed him


    "What? Why hasn''t she? Is she okay?" He couldn''t help but get worried.


    "Sir, I tried calling, but couldn''t get through to her." Bella replied apologetically.


    "Okay." Adam went inside his office room. He was stit worried for her.


    "She''s all alone by herself. What if she falls ill? Should I go to her place or not." He thought out loud.


    He was starting to get panicked. He took a couple of deep breaths to calm himself down.


    ''She slept late last night, must be just running late.''


    He tried convincing himself. Thinking about last night he remembered that he still had to deal with that sleazeball.


    Thinking about last night made his blood boil in anger again. ''How dare he order other staff members to do the work of that immoral assistant of his. I have to teach him a lesson that he won''t be able to forget any time soon.''


    He buzzed Bella through the intercom. He asked her to call a meeting of the heads of department in an hour.


    He sat down on his swiveling chair and stared outside through the floor to ceiling glass wall.


    He heaved out a long sigh turning back to face his desk and busied himself looking through the emails. It was already pretty late when he reached his house last night, so he didn''t bother to look at them. Most importantly, he wasn''t in the mood to. Therefore, there were a lot of them. Although Bella filtered them and only forwarded him the most important ones, there were still quite a few.


    Half an hour later, someone entered after knocking on the dark wood door.


    "Good morning, Sir." He was greeted by an angelic voice.


    Adam snapped his head up to see someone familiar standing before his desk.


    "I am sorry for being late. I slept in." She said scratching the back of her head.


    "It''s alright." Adam smiled at her.


    Adam looked at her and thought to himself, ''No wonder I was shocked when I heard her voice out of nowhere.''


    She wasn''t wearing heels like she usually did. Instead she was wearing black sneakers today that had golden stripes on the sides. She was dressed up a bit casually today, dressed up in a ripped blue jeans paired with a black long-sleeved crop top that showed a bit of her fair waist. Her hairs tied up in a messy bun with a few locks escaping out, framing her small face. He noticed that there was something written on her shirt.


    ''What you looking at?'' Adam burst out laughing reading it.


    Stella was frozen in her spot, rooted to the ground thinking that he must have been laughing on her attire. "I am sorry, Sir. I didn''t have time to change into something formal." She lowered her head down as if she was feeling ashamed of herself.


    It was then that Adam realized that she must have misunderstood the reason for his laughing. "Why are you being sorry about? It''s not that I am laughing on you or the way you have dressed up. It''s totally up to you, you can wear whatever you like. I just found what''s written on your shirt a bit funny." He explained it to her slowly.


    "In fact I wouldn''t even mind you dressing up like this regularly rather than in some professional attire." He added, smiling. ''Moreover, you look more cute when you are casually dressed up.'' He kept the later part to himself.


    "Thank you, Sir." She said.


    "You don''t have to thank me for anything Stella." He spoke, gentleness evident in his words.


    "By the way, give me your phone." He asked, extending his hand towards her.


    "Uh?" He could see confusion written on her face in bold letters.


    "Hand me your phone, Stella." He asked her again.


    Stella reluctantly gave her phone to him.


    "Unlock it." Adam asked her politely. She did as she was told.


    He punched in a number and saved it. His phone rang a few seconds later. He gave her back her phone.


    "I have saved my phone number in there. You can give me a call whenever you need to. And don''t even bother hesitating when doing it." He added with a gentle smile.


    Stella looked like she wanted to say something but was a being doubtful.


    "Stella! What did I tell you about keeping things to yourself?" He reminded her.


    She finally spoke up after contemplating for a minute, "Why? Why are you doing this? Why are you being so good to me?"


    "Don''t take me or my actions wrongly, please. It''s just that you are good at your job and I know how to appreciate my staff, especially when they are hard working." He said. ''Also, I have taken a liking to you.'' He chose to keep the later part to himself.


    "Moreover, you live by yourself. What if you get in some sort of trouble." He added.


    Stella was left dumbstruck hearing his answer, particularly the second one. She couldn''t say anything in return. After a while she opened her mouth, "Thank you so much. I will keep that in mind." She gave him a hearty smile.


    He smiled back at her.


    "There will be a meeting in half hour, be there. Don''t forget it." He reminded her as she went back to her office.

 Chapter 15 - You Are Fired!

    Half an hour later, everyone was present in the big meeting room, waiting for their big boss. Almost everyone''s eyes was settled on the glass door.


    A few minutes later, the sound of footsteps could be heard approaching towards the room. This was probably the only meeting room which didn''t have a good insulation and voices could be heard outside. Adam had his own reasons for choosing this room.


    The door of the meeting room opened and a man stepped in, fixing his cuffs. His gaze passed over every single person seated inside, making them straighten their backs. Many of those sitting there had been working for years in the company. Many of them had served by his father''s side.


    His gaze rested on a particular someone who had made his blood boil in anger last night. ''I have had enough of him.'' He thought to himself.


    He was followed by a little girl who seemed harmless. Many people there haven''t seen her before, but was left awestruck by her.


    Adam headed further inside the room, he sat on his chair, his head held high. He had the aura of a king who was about to kick out traitors from his empire.


    He looked at Stella and pointed at the empty seat to his right. On his left sat the Vice President of the company. Stella quietly sat down by his side.


    "You guys must be wondering why did I call for an urgent meeting. Well, to begin with, we are going to clear trash from our company." Adam spoke up, his voice laced with confidence as a glint passed through those deep gray eyes.


    His statement left everyone baffled. No one could speak up for a while. They knew the hidden meaning behind his words. In other words, people were going to get fired today. As for how many? That was something only he knew.


    Adam decided to start with a few small pests first. He fired them on the spot, without giving them any chance to explain their deeds. He had been ignoring their wrong doings for a long time now. They have used the company''s name for their own benefits, not once but many times. He had turned a blind eye to them and here they thought he didn''t know any anything. As long as it involved his company, he would know all about it.


    They sure had some guts now, using the company''s money as if they owned it.


    ''Looks like I have been quite lenient towards my staff. It''s time to show them their places.'' He thought with a smirk.


    "You guys thought just because I don''t say anything, I wouldn''t know anything either. Right?" He asked them with a dangerous glint in his eyes.


    Though he still had a faint smile on his face, it was enough to send shivers running down their spines.


    "My lawyers will get in contact with you later on in the day. Each one of you will get legal notices and have to pay every single penny back to the company that you spent on yourselves so leisurely." He added on. "Now, get out."


    Before any of them could utter a single word in his defense, people clad in black uniforms entered the room, and dragged them outside.


    Just like that, he had fired four people. The rest of the people were thanking heavens that they didn''t do anything wrong by the company or their Boss.


    Getting rid of those tiny pests, Adam decided to deal with the biggest one.


    "Mr. Parker! What about the file that I asked Bella to hand over to you two days before? I have to go through it now, so that I can finalize the deal sooner." He asked the Vice President. He somehow had an idea that he didn''t know that Stella hadn''t done what he asked her to.


    "Sure, Sir. My assistant has it with her right now. She is very diligent when it comes to work. She had completed it last night. I was going to bring it to you but you had called for a meeting." He didn''t forget to praise his secretary in front of everyone present there.


    Stella was frozen in her seat when she heard his reply. She was already stunned by how Adam had dealt with those morons earlier. No wonder he was able to lead such a big corporation despite of his young age.


    She took a peek at Adam who was already looking at her with his eyes narrowed as if saying '' You got played.'' She couldn''t help but look down at her knotted hands on the table with guilt written on his face.


    Mr. Parker thought that since Stella had been in the company for a couple of days only, she must be scared of him as he was the Vice President and could get her fired easily.


    "Oh really? Then where''s the file?" Adam spoke up.


    Mr. Parker called his assistant to hand over the file but didn''t notice that she was fidgeting in the back. She stepped ahead and whispered something in his ear.


    "I am sorry, Sir. It looks like my assistant has already handed over the file to your assistant. Where is the file Stella? Didn''t you gave it to your Boss?" He said bringing everyone''s attention to her.


    "Stella where''s the file?" Adam looked at her with a serious face. She couldn''t understand what he was thinking. He gazed into those deep gray orbs which were like a vortex, sucking in everything. But somehow, she felt assured looking into them.


    "I am sorry, Sir." She lowered her head and took a long pause. "But I don''t know which file Mr. Parker is talking about. His assistant didn''t handed me over any file." She continued, looking up at Adam, her eyes blazing with rage. Adam smiled at her in response.


    "Why are you lying? If she said she did, it means she did. What did you do to the file?" Mr. Parker slammed his hands on the table, shouting at her.


    "I really don''t know what you are talking about. I have been with Sir since the morning. If you don''t believe me, you can ask him." She blinked innocently with her brows furrowed as if she was being wronged.


    Adam was having a hard time controlling himself. He wanted to laugh so badly right now.


    "What are you talking about? I gave the file to you myself to finish it before today and hand it back to me. How dare you say otherwise?" Mr. Parker was enraged.


    Stella only smile at him in response innocently.


    It was only then, he realized what he had spoken in his fit of rage, his eyes widening as realization hit him. He looked around the room to find everyone looking at him with disgust.


    On the other hand, Adam was lost in his own world. ''This little lady knows how to be fierce as well. And did she just used me as scapegoat? Wasn''t she worried that I may not side with her? It means she trusts me, even if a tiny bit, but she does and that''s more than enough for me.''


    He stared at his favorite pair of eyes that were looking back at him, with a gentle smile.


    After a minute or two he turned his left, his expressions changing to fierce. "You are fired along with your assistant."


    He stood up, "Meeting is over. I hope it serves as a reminder for everyone else."


    He left the room with Stella following him.

 Chapter 16 - Thick Skull

    Once out of the meeting room, Adam slowed down his steps a bit so that Stella could walk next to him, and not follow him around like a cat.


    Stella walked next to him quietly. She was in a turmoil. She couldn''t comprehend why he did that. Why would he side with a new assistant rather than the V.P? Moreover, she was feeling bad for using his name. But wasn''t he the one who asked her not to complete the file. But isn''t it still wrong that she did that, he was her Boss after all.


    All the way up to the top floor, she was contemplating what she should do.


    "Sir?" She finally spoke up when Adam was reaching for the door of his office.


    "Yes, Stella." Adam replied politely.


    "I need to talk to you about something, if you have time." She told him.


    ''I always have time for you little lady.'' He thought.


    "Sure. Come in." He said, holding the door open for her.


    Stella stepped inside, followed by him.


    "Have a seat, please." He offered her courteously.


    Stella said down, fiddling with her fingers. She finally spoke, "I am so sorry, Sir."


    Adam frowned listening to her. "Why are you apologising to me?" He asked her sitting in the seat next to her instead of his own seat.


    "Because I lied in the meeting. And more importantly I lied using your name." She said, her head lowered in shame.


    "What are you even talking about? I didn''t mind it. In fact, it''s actually the opposite. I am glad that you know how to protect yourself when faced with such a situation." Adam replied to her, looking at her with admiration in his eyes.


    "And I won''t mind if you use my name again for your own sake." Adam spoke to her gently.


    ''Even if you do that for the rest of your life.'' He kept the last part to himself.


    Stella was still looking down at her hands, which were now knotted together and rested on her lap. Adam turned her chair so that she was facing him now. He raised his hand and knocked on her forehead with a bit of force which made her flinch in pain slightly. "Get it through your thick skull, little lady." He said retracting his hand.


    Stella raised her hand, massaging the spot he had hit earlier, she frowned, "Who are you calling little lady?"


    ''Out of what I have just said she had to catch on this.'' Adam didn''t know whether he should cry or laugh at this.


    "Do you see anyone else in here other than you and me? And of course, I won''t call myself a little lady, will I?" He asked her in return.


    Stella pouted in response, as if she was being wronged by him. "You are the one who have a thick skull." She retorted back.


    Adam couldn''t help but laugh out loud, his laughter echoing inside the quiet office. He was enjoying their banter. He liked this side of her a bit more than the strong headed person she usually behaved as.


    "Oh! Am I now? He asked her, a sleek smile on his face.


    "Yes, you are." She scoffed in response with her eyes narrowed.


    "Why is that?" He asked again, his face cocked to his left slightly, looking at her intently.


    "Isn''t it obvious? How can you just help out someone you have known just for a bunch of days?" She replied, turning her head to look outside through the glass wall.


    She liked it, she liked the idea of one being able to see the world but the world couldn''t see you back.


    "Why would I do that? Why do you think I did it?" He responded with a question of his own.


    "May be¡­.." She stopped before she could complete her sentence.


    "May be what, Stella?" Adam wanted to know what was going through her mind.


    She turned her head back to him, looking in his deep gray eyes, she replied, "It''s nothing, Sir. I just wanted to say thank you for what you did for me in there." She smiled at him but it wasn''t like her usual smile which was radiant. It was a professional one. Adam could tell it because he had seen such smiles all his life.


    After thanking him, Stella stood up to leave but as soon as she reached the wooden door, Adam caught hold on her wrist making her turn back to him.


    "Say it, Stella." He asked her, a mischievous glint in his eyes long gone now.


    "Say what?" She tried to break her hand free from his grip but her strength was no match for his.


    He continued holding on to her wrist, his grip was firm and strong but not too much too hurt her. He wouldn''t do that to her in his life.


    "Say what you actually wanted to a minute ago. Say it out loud. I want to hear it." He spoke.


    "I did." She was still trying to get her hand free.


    Her response infuriated Adam, he pushed her against the dark wood door of his office but was careful, as not to use much force. He placed both his hands on either side of her head and tilted his head down.


    "Do you think I would be able to run this company all this while if people were able to manipulate me this easily?" He questioned her, narrowing his eyes in the process.


    "Now, what was it you actually wanted to say in the first place? Say it. Say it right before me, now." He said to her, lowering his head a bit so that she didn''t strain her neck.


    "Speak up." He was adamant to know. He wanted her to speak her mind before him, and he will have it, even he had to force her to do so.


    But she remained quiet. No one wanted to step back and let the other one have it their way.

 Chapter 17 - Ms. Stella, GET OUT!

    A pair of gray eyes staring into hazel ones. It was the first time that Adam was seeing her eyes from such a small distance. He could clearly see that her hazel brown irises had a small amount of golden flecks scattered throughout. They reminded him of honey, in a flawless glass jar, reflecting the rays of sunlight in different directions. But the only difference was that her eyes had their own light, they didn''t need any sun.


    ''Please Stella, talk to me.'' He thought looking down at her face.


    After what it felt like to be an eternity, Stella finally decided opened her mouth, "You really want to know?" She asked him only to receive a firm nod in reply.


    "You probably helped me because you like having a beautiful face around yourself. Just like all those typical bosses, you love to have a pretty assistant around you. Don''t you?" She almost shouted at him.


    Adam frowned listening to her. He wasn''t worried about her shouting at him. She could shout as much as she wanted to. His office had the best sound insulation, not even a single sound could go outside.


    He was worried about what she had said to him.


    "Do you really think that I am someone like that?" He asked her controlling his anger. He didn''t want to even raise his voice let alone shout at her.


    She stayed quiet and didn''t answer him.


    "Stella! Answer me. Do you really think of me as such a person?" He asked her again, pressing her for an answer.


    "If you are not, then why would you help someone you have only known for just a couple of days?" She snapped back at him.


    "Have you lost it Stella?" He still asked her politely.


    "Why would I lost it? Aren''t I right? You probably helped me so that you can get into my good books and then later on take advantage of it." She replied to him.


    Adam looked at her with confusion in his eyes. ''She really think that I am someone like that. Where have I gone wrong? What did I do wrong for her to think of me as someone like that?'' Adam internally struggling.


    "What are you looking at now, Sir? Are you going to fire me now because I have spoken out of my place?" She brought him back to the present.


    Adam clenched his hands tightly into fists that still rested on the door.


    "What? Are you going to let me go now or not?" She scoffed.


    Adam was trying his best to control his anger, but she was making it difficult for him.


    "Are you going to let me go or take advantage of me?" Her last sentence made him lose his mind.


    He stepped one step closer to her, but there was still a big gap between them. "What if I actually do that? Where will you go after that?" He smirked at her.


    A shiver ran down Stella''s spine, looking at his expressions.


    "Who do think you are? Are you even worthy that I would cross my bottom line for you?" He gritted his teeth.


    "I took your side not because you have a pretty face, but because you are my employee. I never like my employees being used or wrongly accused. Parker was the one who was in the wrong then. So I took your side. I would have done the same thing if it had been anyone else in your place." He was completely enraged. It was the first time that someone had accused him of such a thing, especially his staff.


    Though he liked this little elf, but he wouldn''t do something wrong to her let alone something immoral. Liking her was one thing and doing such a thing was another.


    "As for getting in your good books, do you think that I, Adam Levinson, will need to be in someone''s good book?" He continued looking at her fiercely. "I have the entire world at my feet, I won''t be needing something so invaluable."


    "I was only treating you good because that''s my nature. I was brought up to be a gentleman Ms. Stella. You are the one who took it the wrong way." He scoffed.


    He stared into her eyes. He was hurt for how and what she thought of him. Thinking about what she had said to him, his blood was boiling in anger.


    *THUD!*


    He punched the door next to her head with all his might. He couldn''t control his anger anymore. His sudden outburst frightened Stella. She was trembling in fear now.


    ''SHIT!!! What have I done? She looks so scared.'' He was more angry at himself than her.


    He took a step back, his hands in fists by his sides.


    "Ms. Stella, GET OUT!" He snapped at her.


    Stella scurried out quickly.


    Adam looked at her running figure, running his hands through his hairs in frustration. He walked to his office desk and sat down trying to calm himself down.


    ''I shouldn''t have done that.'' He thought as his mind was calming down. His gaze landed on his right hand, the knuckles were bruised badly because of the impact of the punch earlier.


    His subsiding anger resurfaced looking at his bruised knuckles as he remembered Stella''s frightened face. He swiped his hand across the table, crashing everything down on the ground.His already bruised hand started bleeding due to the impact. He ignored the blood and the pain creeping up his arm, turning his chair around to look outside, gazing into the distance.

 Chapter 18 - Stupid Girl

    Inside the President''s room, it seemed like a storm was brewing. Everyone who had entered there was scolded for no reason at all. Within the next hour or so, everyone in the company knew that their boss was in a foul mood today. They thought it must have been related to the meeting.


    Somehow, everyone in the company had gotten a whiff of what had happened in the meeting earlier that day.


    It was soon lunch time and Bella came in to know his preferences, but instead was returned with a reason of not being hungry.


    Usually, no matter how bad of a mood Adam was in, he would never skip his meals. But today was different. He had never thought that someone could make him so much infuriated. He was in a fume.


    For the first time in his life he had been accused of something he didn''t even commit, and that too by the only girl he had ever liked so far in his life.


    ''How could she do that? How could she think so badly of me?'' Adam was having a monologue with himself.


    He had so much work to do yet he wasn''t in the mood to. As a result, a pile of files was placed on his office desk to his left, untouched.


    He had asked Bella earlier after creating havoc, to take care of his desk before he went to take care of his wounds, which actually meant just pouring water over them.


    ''I have never felt like this before. If it would have some other person, I would have fired him or her on the spot. But I couldn''t bring myself to do it to her.'' He contemplated.


    He was more infuriated because of himself. He had scared the poor girl back then. ''She must have been scared by my outburst.'' He thought to himself.


    He couldn''t help but run his hands through his hairs in frustration. ''How am I going to face her now and make it up to her?


    ------------------------


    In another office on the same floor, a girl was sitting in her chair before her desk, sulking like a little child who has been deprived of his candy.


    She was pouting looking at the file before her. She wasn''t in the mood to work after what had happened, or more specifically, after what she had done.


    She had scolded herself multiple times since for the nonsense she had spouted before Adam. It wasn''t her fault though. Well, not completely.


    No one had treated her good without their own underlying motives since her parents'' had passed away. Adam was the first one after them. So she couldn''t help but panic and spouted whatever came to her mouth.


    He had been so good to her. She shouldn''t have treated him like that instead of being thankful.


    "You stupid girl! How could you do that? Are you blind? Can''t you see how well he treats you? And what did you do in return, huh? You hurt him." She muttered under her breath, scolding herself.


    She could still see his hurt expression before her eyes, she remembered it too well. Moreover, when he had punched the door with so much force, she was startled for a minute but when her gaze fell on his hand, she was scared. Not for herself but for him, she had seen the bruises on his hand.


    Sighing, she leaned back in her chair, looking at the ceiling of her office.


    "Stella, you are in the wrong here. Not only did you hurt him but you made him hurt himself. He had every right to fire you from the job but he didn''t. You have to talk to him and apologise." She tried to gather courage to undo the wrong she had done.


    --------------------------------


    *Back to the President''s office*


    It was already late in the evening. Everyone had already left, or that was what Adam thought.


    "Grrr¡­" a low sound came from his stomach making him sigh. ''I should definitely eat something now.''


    He came out of the bedroom to his office in am unkempt state. His hairs were disheveled, his coat was lying somewhere in the room, his cuffs were undone and folded up to his elbows, the top two buttons of his shirt were undone and his dress shirt was no more tucked in properly in his pants. But still he was a feast for the eyes. He didn''t look any less than a model.


    Just as he was heading for the door, it opened from outside and in came the little lady who has been messing with his mind for the entire day. She had a first aid box in her hands.


    ''Why hasn''t she gone home yet? And what is she doing with that first aid box? Is she injured?'' His eyes looked for an injury on her but couldn''t find it.


    Stella finally looked up only to meet a pair of gray eyes scrutinizing her.


    "Sir? How''s your hand?" She asked him.


    "Why does it concern you?" He couldn''t help but scoff.


    "You are right, it doesn''t. But you should get it treated or else it might get infected." She said looking at his right hand. She could see that he hadn''t treated it yet.


    "That doesn''t concern you either." He replied with a smirk.


    She pursed her lips, still looking at his hand. It had scratches and cuts that weren''t there before. Of course, a single punch on a door couldn''t have caused them.


    Her gaze than landed on his office desk. Most of the stuff have been replaced by new ones. She could have a rough idea of what might have caused those cuts and scratches.


    She looked up at him with her crestfallen expressions.


    Adam couldn''t help but look back into her eyes. His heart was starting to melt looking at her expressions. He knew he wouldn''t be able to stand against her much longer, so he walked past her and headed to the door, ignoring her.


    But as soon as he was right before the door, he felt a tug on his shirt. He turned his head sideways only to find Stella holding the back of his shirt with her right hand.

 Chapter 19 - The Whipped CEO

    Adam was stunned to see her holding the back of his shirt firmly in her grip. He tried to move but she still didn''t let go, instead made her grip tighter on it.


    He was amused by her actions. His anger slowly dissipating.


    "What now?" He asked her sternly.


    Her head was lowered and he couldn''t see her expressions but could feel the hand holding his shirt tremble a little.


    "You need to disinfect your wounds, Sir." She replied demurely.


    "Who''s your Sir?" He asked her back with a raised eyebrow. ''I hate it when she calls me by that title.''


    "You can fire me if you want but you have to treat your wounds, now. It''s not good to leave them like this, they could get infected.


    "And what does it have to do with you?" He scoffed.


    Stella raised her head and when she did, Adam felt all his rationality going out of the window. Her eyes were teary and she was biting down on her lower lip hardly as not to allow any whimpering sounds escape her lips.


    Adam felt his soul being sucked out of his body at the sight. ''Shit! I took it too far.''


    When he saw that she had brought a first aid kit  for him, he was elated. But he decided to act against what he actually felt like, how could he let her have her way with him this easily? He didn''t know that his actions would make this little lady tear up.


    "What happened? Are you hurt somewhere?" He couldn''t help but ask her, his voice laced with worry.


    He took her hand and guided her to the couch, making her sit down. He sat opposite to her on the wooden table.


    "Stella? Please talk to me. What happened?" His voice filled with gentleness.


    The more he was being nice to her, the more she wanted to cry. She couldn''t control her tears and a few of them escaped her eyes, running down her cheeks.


    Adam couldn''t help but feel helpless. He didn''t know what to do. It was the first time a girl was crying in front of him. He didn''t know what to do.


    ''How did it turn out like this? She was the one trying to make up to me. How did I end up being the one trying to console her? I am so whipped up.''


    "Please, talk to me. You are making me worried." He asked her again.


    There was still no reply other than the occasional sniffing sounds.


    "If you talk to me, I will treat my cuts. I promise." He tried to coax her.


    "You promise?" He finally heard her speaking. "I promise." He replied with his head bobbing up and down. He could agree with anything as long as she wouldn''t cry.


    "I am s-s-sorry." She said in between her sniffing. He got up and brought her a glass of water. She took it but didn''t drink.


    "I was wrong. I shouldn''t have treated you like that. You have been treating me so good and here I am accusing you of something that you never did." She finally said her thoughts out loud.


    "It''s alright Stella. I was in the wrong as well. I shouldn''t have shouted at you. "He replied to her politely.


    "No! It wasn''t your fault, it was mine. Just because of a bad experience before, I doubted you. I doubted your character. For that, I am deeply sorry." She said gathering her thoughts.


    "It''s alright. It''s all in the past now, isn''t it?" He asked her with a smile.


    She nodded, "Yes, but I still want to apologise properly. You even hurt yourself because of me." She looked at him, her expressions filled with guilt.


    "I am sorry Adam." She said looking into his eyes.


    Adam was struck by lightning. It was the first time she had said his name without him forcing her to do so.


    "It''s alright." He gave her a toothy grin.


    He took a bunch of tissues from the tissue box next to him and passed them to her. "Now stop with the crying. You look so ugly." He tried to joke with her.


    "Shut up." She rolled her eyes at him dabbing the tissue papers on her face. She drank the glass of water Adam had brought earlier.


    Adam laughed at her response. ''Thank God, she is back to her normal self.''


    Stella placed a cushion on her lap, took Adam''s right hand and placed it on the cushion.


    She took out cotton pads and disinfectant from the first aid box and started to clean his wounds with her utmost concentration.


    In the silence of his office, two people were sitting opposite to each other. Stella was busy tending to his wounds while Adam watched her intently. She would, once in a while, softly blow air on his wounds as to ease his pain.


    He could still see guilt written on her face. "What is it now?" He asked her patting her head as if she was a little kid.


    "I am sorry." She said again only to get a scowl from him.


    "Stop apologizing to me, or else I won''t let you treat my wounds. "He said taking back his hand but she didn''t let him.


    "Okay, I won''t. It''s just I feel guilty looking at your wounds." She said biting her lower lip.


    "Then don''t look at them." He stated as a matter of fact.


    Stella glared at him in response, going back to what she was doing.


    "Well, there''s one way you can make it up to me." Adam spoke gently which made her eyes brightened up, "What?"


    "Be my friend." He said as if it wasn''t a big deal.


    "Huh?" She was confused by his sudden demand.


    "You heard me. Be my friend and I will turn a blind eye to what happened." He said looking intently at her.


    Stella didn''t reply to him for long. Just as he was starting to think that he had gone overboard, he heard her say, "Okay."


    Adam couldn''t help but freeze at her reply. He didn''t think that she would agree with him and he wouldn''t have mind it. He was just trying his luck.


    "What did you say?" He couldn''t help but ask her to confirm.


    "Okay. I will be your friend." Stella smiled at him once she was done disinfecting all his cuts. She made sure that she didn''t leave a single cut untreated.

 Chapter 20 - F.R.I.E.N.D.S

    Listening to her reply, Adam was elated, he was over the moon. He couldn''t help but grin like a fool.


    "You just agreed to me. Right?" He asked her again to which she nodded.


    "It means you and I are going to be friends. Right?" He asked her again.


    Stella smacked her forehead hardly. "YES! I agreed to what you said. And yes, we are friends now. If you still have some problem comprehending it, let me spell it out for you." She said dramatically waving her hands through the air.


    "F.R.I.E.N.D.S!!! We are friends now. Get it through your thick skull." She said rolling her eyes at him.


    "Okay, that''s great. But remember what you just said, you aren''t allowed to back off now, or ever in the future." He stated clearly.


    "Ughhh! I take back what I just said. I am leaving now." She said standing up. She tried to take one step towards the door but was stopped by him.


    Adam caught hold of her wrist and dragged her back to the couch without even moving from his position.


    "Okay okay, I am sorry." He apologized to her raising his hands up in the air as if admitting his defeat. "But I have one request. Please don''t say no." He continued.


    "What is that?" She asked him back narrowing her eyes.


    "Umm¡­ You have to call me by name. No more Sir." He replied, scratching the back of his head.


    "But how can I do that?" She asked. "What will everyone else will think of me if I do that? You are my boss after all." She continued.


    "I know, that''s why I am not asking you to do that in front of my staff. Call me by my name when it''s just the two of us. You can do that, can''t you?" Adam asked her.


    "That, I can do." Stella replied, giving him a bright smile.


    Adam nodded while grinning. "Are you hungry?" He asked her.


    "Yeah! I didn''t eat anything at lunch because I was feeling so guilty." She replied meekly.


    "What did you say?" Adam frowned at her reply.


    Stella chose to remain quiet and didn''t reply to him which only made him more angry.


    He stood up, taking her hand, he almost dragged her out of his office.


    "Where are you taking me?" She asked him almost running behind him but didn''t get any reply.


    "Adam?" She tried to get his attention.


    "We are going to have something to eat." He replied stopping in his tracks. Stella almost bumped into his back but managed to stop herself in time.


    "Where''s your mobile phone and bag?" He asked her to which she replied, "In my office."


    "Stay here. I will be right back." He said leaving her in the hallway.


    After two minutes he came back with her phone and bag in his hands along with his coat.


    "Why did you bring those? It''s not like we are going somewhere out." She asked him with a pout.


    "Yes, we are." He responded, handing over her stuff.


    "Why are we going out? Isn''t Bob here today?" She inquired.


    "He is, but I want to eat outside today. So, I will be taking you to one of my favorite restaurants." He said putting on his coat.


    "But---"


    Before she could say anything, he interrupted her, "No buts. I am not taking no for an answer Stella."


    Stella was put in a dilemma. She didn''t think that it was good going out with her boss and that too at night. But they were friends now and if she turned him down, he wouldn''t feel good. She didn''t know why but she didn''t want him to be sad, not even for a moment.


    "Okay! But I have one condition." She said.


    "I agree with whatever your condition is. Now let''s get going, I am famished." He said dragging her to his elevator, again.


    Stella could do anything but follow him. Once they were down Adam asked her to stay at the entrance, and went to the parking area himself.


    After a while he drove out in his car and stopped right in front of her. When she finally settled in and put on the seat belt, he drove the car to their destination.


    "So, where are we going?" Stella couldn''t help but ask him.


    "You''ll see." He replied giving her a mysterious smile.


    Stella shook her head sideways at his childish behavior. "One look at you now and people won''t believe that you are the same Adam Levinson who''s the President of Levinson''s Corp." She scoffed.


    Adam chuckled at her statement. "Well, they don''t really know me then, neither do you."


    The rest of their journey was quiet. Around half an hour later, Adam pulled up before a restaurant.

 Chapter 21 - Dinner By The River

    Stella stepped out of the car and was completely stunned at the sight. Before her was a restaurant with ''Charlotte and Fritz'' written in bold letters. It had a garden before the main entrance door. The hedges were covered with tiny fairy lights, glowing in the dark.


    Adam handed the car keys to the valet and guided Stella inside.


    Stella was stunned again on seeing the interior of the place. It was not too much, but still had the touch of stateliness. Dark wood shades paired with golden, gave the place a tinge of royalty.


    A waiter came forward and bowed his head before them slightly. He guided them to the second floor to a private room. They entered and took seats opposite to each other. The waiter scurried out the room.


    Stella couldn''t help but look at her surroundings in awe. The room''s interior was kept minimalistic but still had its own charms. Moreover, the room was more like a balcony, looking over a river which flowed next to the restaurant.


    A breeze of fresh air entered the room, making Stella smile. "When did you make the reservation?" She asked him.


    "I didn''t." He replied looking at her deeply.


    She frowned at his answer. "I just have to inform them beforehand. So I just left a text before leaving the office." He explained to her.


    "Oh!" She replied registering his answer.


    The waiter entered the room again, with their menus in his hand. He offered them those and waited patiently in the corner of the room as they decided their orders.


    Adam looked at Stella who was going through the menu. He couldn''t help but admire her more. The way her brows scrunched up when she was deciding what to eat.


    "Why don''t you let me decide your meal?" He suddenly asked her. "Have some faith in me, you will definitely like it." He continued when he saw her confused expressions.


    "Okay." She reluctantly agreed


    Adam went through the menu once again. "Beef steak for the lady with tomato, bulgur salad and avocado. Make sure it''s completely done but not overcooked. I will have beef fillet served with vegetable confit and potato waffle." He spoke elegantly.


    Turning to the wine section he said, "Get me a Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Romanee-Conti Grand Cru 1990." He said closing the menu.


    The waiter wrote down their orders and went back.


    While they waited for their order to arrive, Stella gazed outside. The beautiful weather paired with the night sky filled with clouds was a sight to behold. Along with that, the sound of water gushing was mesmerizing for her.


    All the while Stella was looking outside, someone else was looking at her. Carefully taking in every single description about her and saving them in his memory. This was his most favorite room in the entire restaurant because of the beautiful sight it provides. One could just sit here for hours and admire the beautiful scenery. But to him it had never looked more beautiful before than it was right now.


    Soon their orders arrived and they dug into them. The waiter served wine in their glasses and left.


    They ate their dinner in silence, enjoying each other''s company along with their food.


    Adam glanced at Stella once in a while. ''How good it would have been if it wasn''t just a dinner? He could have booked the entire rooftop for her. But he still had a long way to go before that.'' He heaved out a long sigh.


    ''Why can''t she just like me back? Why is it so hard to even have her attention?'' He thought to himself.


    Adam drank only a few gulps as he had to drive Stella and himself back.


    After eating their dinner, Adam paid for the bill even though Stella insisted on splitting it up.


    Adam glanced at her as they headed downstairs. Her pale cheeks were now tinged with a shade of pink because of the wine she had had earlier.


    The valet brought out his car, Adam gave him a huge tip and drove the car to Stella''s apartment once they were seated in.


    When they reached her apartment, Adma turned his head sideways to see her off only to find her sleeping peacefully.


    ''No wonder it was so quiet during the journey.'' He thought.


    Instead of waking her up directly, he parked the car on the side and turned off the ignition. Turning his head towards her again, he gazed at her petite features. She looked so fragile as if one harsh blow would shatter her into tiny pieces.


    Adam was sure by now that he liked her, damn too much for his own good.


    "I have to make you mine, or else I will completely lose my mind." He thought out loud.


    He couldn''t help but lean towards her slowly. Their faces now merely inches a part. Adam leaned in a bit more, his lips hovering over hers, his eyes looking intently at her face to monitor even the slightest of movement. His gaze fell down to her lips again, his throat running dry and his heartbeat became erratic.

 Chapter 22 - A Peck?

    Adam couldn''t help but gulp looking at her lips so closely. He wanted to steal a peck from her, just a tiny peck. ''It won''t do her any harm. Will it?'' He thought to himself.


    ''But it''s wrong Adam. It''s so damn wrong.'' He was struggling with himself internally. Their lips were mere inches apart. He could''ve kissed her just by leaning in a bit more.


    Adam looked at her once more and retracted back his hand which was next to Stella''s head on the window, supporting his weight.


    He settled in the driver''s seat again and took deep breaths to calm down his erratic heart.


    "One day, I will be rightfully claiming you, little lady. Sooner or later." He murmured under his breath looking once again at the girl next to him.


    After calming himself down, he decided to wake the little elf who was sleeping soundly.


    "Stella?" He said softly but got no response from her.


    "Stella?" He said again, bit louder this time tapping her shoulder lightly.


    "Huh?" She woke up with a startle, looking at her surroundings.


    "Wakey wakey, little elf." Adam said giving her a wide smile.


    Stella almost smacked him on the shoulder but managed to stop her hand before it landed on his shoulder.


    "Who are you calling an elf?" She retorted.


    "Do you see someone else in the car?" He gave her devilish smile. "And I can''t be the elf between us. Can I?"


    "Yeah, yeah! Go ahead and make fun of my height." She pouted.


    "Hey, relax. I won''t make fun of your height, at least not for now." He said with a wink.


    "By the way, I didn''t know that you are of those people who snore while sleeping. You don''t look like one though." He added.


    "What are you talking about? I don''t snore at all." Her brows furrowed.


    "How do you know?" He asked her.


    "I know that I don''t." She replied with assurance.


    "And how do you exactly know that?" He asked her again with a smirk.


    "I just know. Okay?" She replied.


    Adam looked at her with his right eyebrow raised. "You sure?" He asked once again making Stella fell deep in thoughts.


    "Hey!" Adam knocked on her forehead bringing her out of her thoughts. "Why don''t you try recording yourself tonight while you sleep? Isn''t that a good idea?"


    "Shut up."


    "We''ll decide whether or not you snore while sleeping, some other time. It''s already late, go up and sleep." He said, his voice filled with gentleness that was reserved specially for her.


    It was only then that Stella realized that they were outside her apartment''s building. "Alright. You too."


    Stella stepped out of the car, turned back, "Good night and thank you for dinner."


    "It''s no biggie. You should head upstairs now. And since it''s the weekend, don''t work, just relax and enjoy." Adam reminded her.


    "Okay, and you too." She replied and headed upstairs.


    Adam watched her disappearing back and drove down the road, heading to his house.


    When Adam arrived it was already midnight. He couldn''t help but stretch his body, heaving out a tired sigh. He headed straight to the bathroom to take a shower. After returning back to his room, he dropped down on his bed and drifted off to his dreamland.


    Next day, Adam woke up late. He freshened up and headed downstairs.


    "Good morning Uncle Rob." He greeted the old butler with a faint smile on his face.


    "Good morning Young Master." The old butler replied politely.


    After breakfast, Adam stood up and headed upstairs but he was stopped by the old butler.


    "Young Master, I would like to have a word with you if you have some free time." He asked Adam politely.


    "Sure, I always have time for you. How many times have I told you that?" Adam replied with a smile on his face. They headed to the back garden and sat down on the bench.


    Uncle Rob had worked for decades for the Levinsons. He had known the child since his birth. He had seen him growing up before his eyes. He couldn''t help but worry for the young man. He was already old and didn''t have much time left. He was worried that after him his Young Master will be all alone in this house.


    "It''s time that you find yourself a lady, Young Master. I am so sorry for speaking out of my place but I am afraid that I won''t be able to live long to be by side. I don''t want to leave you alone here." He spoke up looking in the distance.


    "What are you talking about? What place are you talking about? Other than Dad, you were the only family I have known growing up all these years. You have every right to say anything to me." Adam was angered by how he looked down at himself.


    "And you will live a long life. Don''t you dare say otherwise." Adam scolded him as if he was reprimanding a child making the old man smile.


    "And don''t you worry about my marriage. It will happen sooner or later. I will introduce you to her someday in the coming future." He added with a big grin on his face.


    The old butler was shocked by his answer. "It means you have found someone?" He couldn''t help but ask Adam.


    "You can say that." Adam replied. "Now you can relax and don''t  have to bother about me anymore."


    The old butler patted his head lovingly and headed inside leaving his Young Master alone.


    Adam looked into the distance and smiled to himself. "I have finally found someone." He said but this time with more assurance.

 Chapter 23 - Charm Her

    The day went on and Adam busied himself doing the pending office work in his study. Later on, in the evening, Adam was going through some documents when his phone rang. He picked it up to see BC with a poop emoji flashing on the screen. It was Blake who had called him. He picked it up reluctantly.


    Blake: "Hey dude! What''s up?"


    Adam: "Nothing out of the ordinary."


    Blake: "What''s with this boring reply of yours. Can''t you say something else?"


    Adam: "If you called me just to have a little chit chat, then I am going to cut the call."


    Blake: "Hey, hey! Wait!!! I am going to the point. Are you free right now?"


    Adam: "Yeah!"


    Blake: "Then come over. The usual place."


    Adam: "Okay. I will be there in an hour or so."


    Adam went to his room, freshened up quickly and changed into a black long-sleeved t-shirt which hugged his body perfectly, and paired it with a dark blue fitted jeans that stopped right over his ankles. He chose a pair of black sneakers to go with the outfit.


    On his way outside, he picked up the keys of his black Maserati and a dark brown shades.


    A few minutes later a black Maserati was on its way to the mountain track in the outskirts of the city.


    Adam arrived there and found Blake already waiting for him. Over the years, since Adam and Blake had gotten their driver''s license, they come here every now and then.


    It was a dirt track made naturally, which started from the foot of the mountain up to the top. Whenever they had some free time on the weekend, they come here to get a break from their hectic lives and drive to the heart''s content.


    "The one who reached the top first is the winner." Blake spoke up after greeting Adam. "You know the rules, the loser will do whatever the winner asked him to."


    "Hmm." Adam nodded his head.


    Both of them got into their own cars and started them, their windows were rolled down.


    "One!" Blake started the countdown.


    "Two!"


    "Three!"


    The cars roared and went on their ways. Two cars, a black and the other one red, could be seen speeding up the mountain, blowing off the dust as they go.


    All the way up to the top, one tried to overtake the other while trying to reach the destination as to claim the title of the winner.


    Blake was leading most of the time. He was elated, he had just the right thing to ask Adam. "Hehehehe! I am going to have so much fun." He thought out loud.


    He was already celebrating his victory but on the last turn Adam overtook him easily. Reaching the top flat ground of the dirt track, Adam stepped on the breaks, drifting on the dirt into a beautiful half circle. Adam stepped out of his car just as Blake pulled up his car next to him.


    Blake was fuming mad. "You dumb***! You do this every single time."


    Adam couldn''t help but chuckle at his actions.


    "You showoff. Why do you have to pretend to lose when you always over take me at the last moment." Blake was shouting at the top of his lungs.


    "It''s not my fault that you can''t win against me." Adam gave him a smirk.


    "Here I was thinking that I can win this time since your mind is clouded these days." Blake pouted.


    "Stop being a sore loser man." Adam said. "Come here, I want my winning prize right now."


    "What do you want? I haven''t brought much cash and I left my credit card at home." Blake replied looking everywhere but at him.


    "Do you really think that I need your money? I need an advice, a sincere one." Adam answered him, rolling his eyes.


    "About what?" Blake asked, sitting on the hood of his car.


    Adam sat next to him and looked into the distance, taking in the beautiful surroundings.


    "I really like her man." Adam said.


    "Oh! Someone''s finally accepting their feelings." Blake teased him.


    "Shut up and listen to me." Adam retorted. "I made her say yes to be my friend. But I want more than that, way more." Adam spoke up seriously.


    "Woah man! You really did that? Looks like someone''s eager." Blake was shocked.


    "So, how should I make her feel something for me? She clearly only sees me as a friend and not a close one at that too." Adam asked, ignoring what he said.


    "It''s actually really simple dude." Blake replied.


    "What?" Adam asked in confusion.


    "Charm her." Blake replied with only two words.


    "Explain!" Adam narrowed his eyes at him


    "Why do you think every other girl drool over you? Why are they so much fascinated by you, ready to throw themselves on you? That''s because you are damn handsome. So, use your charms for her as well. I don''t think so that she can ignore you forever ." Blake elaborated slowly to him.

 Chapter 24 - For Who He Was

    Adam listened quietly to Blake, taking in whatever he told him. Adam only nodded to him without saying anything in return. Time went by, and they sat in silence next to each other, taking in their surroundings and enjoying whatever the nature had to flaunt.


    They decided to return back when the sky had turned dark completely. They bid off each other good night and headed their own ways.


    Adam arrived half an hour later at his place. Parking the car at it''s usual spot in the garage, he went in and headed to his room. He pressed a button that was by his bedside table. After two minutes, there was a light knock on the door.


    "Come in." Adam spoke.


    The old buttler entered and bowed his head slightly in respect. "You called for me Young Master?"


    "Yes, I did. Can you ask someone to prepare a cup of coffee for me?" Adam asked him.


    "I will prepare it for you myself." The old butler replied politely.


    "No! You don''t have to do that. I have already told you so many times not to do such minor tasks yourself. Just ask one of the maids to do it." Adam scolded him a little.


    "Yes, Young Master. As you say." His reply made the old butler smile.


    "And bring it to the rooftop." Adam added as the old butler was on his way out.


    The old butler nodded in response and headed out.


    Adam changed into a set of dark maroon PJs and went to the rooftop.


    The top of his house was turned into a little garden, which was actually not so little. The entire roof was covered with properly trimmed, luscious green grass. There were exquisite flowering plants, planted along the three sides of the garden. Most of them were imported and even their maintenance cost a lot.


    His Dad had once told him that his Mother was fond of plants, so he made this rooftop garden for her. After she passed away, he had maintained the garden, hiring experienced gardeners just to make sure the place almost always looked green, well, except for autumn and winter.


    After his Dad passed away, it was now his responsibility. He always come here whenever he felt uneasy, and today was no different.


    There were three chairs, with a table, placed at the back side of the garden. That was the only side of the garden that was not bounded by the plants, but instead had railings covered completely by beautiful creepers.


    Adam sat down on one of the chairs and looked into the distance. After a few minutes the old butler came with his coffee. He placed the coffee before Adam and quietly retreated back, going downstairs.


    Adam looked at the dark night sky. It was clear, with no clouds in sight to hide the wonders the sky could flash.


    His thoughts drifted back to what Blake had said to him. He was in a dilemma. He didn''t want Stella to like him for his face or money. He wanted her to like him for who he was as a person. But Blake had a point, to make Stella take notice of him, he had to do something before it''s too late.


    ''First I have to make sure she doesn''t have a boyfriend. Though she doesn''t look like to have one, but I still have to make of it.'' He thought to himself. ''But what if there is one. I have to work harder to get rid of him.'' He heaved out a long sigh.


    ''Why is it so hard to get a girl whom you really like?'' He was frustrated.


    Adam picked up his coffee looking back at the sky. There were numerous stars, glimmering like diamonds against the dark background.


    "I wish you were here with me today, Mom and Dad." He spoke to one in particular.


    "I wish you were here to guide me today." He said taking sips from his coffee.


    His gaze landed on the moon, brightening up the dark night yet standing alone among the sea of stars.


    "I don''t want to be alone anymore like the moon. I want someone with whom I can spend the rest of my life, share my happiness and sadness with, someone who will be the center of my life. And I think I have found that someone." He said, looking up at the sky.


    "Mom, Dad! I may have found that someone finally. Someone whom I want to spend the rest of my life with. I will bring her to meet you guys once she''s mine. Wish me luck."


    He gulped down the remaining of his coffee and headed downstairs to his room. He had made up his mind that no matter what and no matter how long it will take, he will make Stella his.

 Chapter 25 - Puss In Boots

    The next morning, Adam woke up and followed his usual routine. Around 5 p.m, he picked up his phone and searched through his contact lists for someone''s number. He stopped scrolling when his eyes fell on the name he was looking for. He hesitated for a bit before hitting the call button on the screen.


    The screen flashed showing the outgoing call. After three rings, the call was picked up.


    "Hello." From the other end came an angelic voice, his favorite one these days.


    "Hey." Adam replied.


    "Who''s this speaking?" Stella asked in confusion, not recognizing the voice.


    "Who picks up calls without seeing who exactly is calling them?" Adam scoffed in response. ''How could she not recognize my voice?'' He was a bit annoyed.


    "What does it had to do with you Mister? Who is this speaking?" She retorted.


    "Well, I want to speak to a little elf who snores while sleeping." Adam was enjoying their conversation. ''Why is even a few exchanges of words with her so intriguing?'' He smiled, holding the phone to his ear.


    There was no response from the other end.


    "Little elf? You still on the line?" Adam couldn''t help but ask her.


    "Who are you calling a little elf?" Stella roared at him through the phone. Adam had to retract his phone a bit away from his poor ear.


    "And I don''t snore." She continued not letting Adam spoke.


    "Did you confirm it last night just like I have told you to do?" Adam asked her.


    "ADAM!!!!" She shouted at him. "Do you want me to block your phone number?"


    "No, no, no. Don''t you dare to do that." Adam replied immediately.


    "What did you say?" She asked in return.


    "I-I mean, don''t do that, please." Adam changed his tone and words in an instant.


    "I will think about that. By the way why did you call me?" She replied to his plea.


    "I was just calling to remind you about today''s event." Adam replied to her, getting right to the point.


    "Oh yeah! I do remember about it. When will the event start? I will be there on time." Stella replied.


    "Just be ready within two hours, I will pick you up." Adam said. "And no buts Stella." He continued before she could even reply.


    "Umm¡­okay." She agreed but Adam could hear the reluctance in her voice. He couldn''t help but let out a sigh. ''She is still not comfortable around me.''


    ''Of course she isn''t, you dumbo, it''s hardly been a day since she said yes to becoming your friend.'' He scolded himself internally, emphasizing on the word ''friend''.


    "So, I will pick you up in two hours. And don''t forget to dress up a bit formally." He reminded her again.


    "Okay, don''t worry I will be ready on time." She replied.


    "See you then." Adam said cutting off the call.


    He headed to the bathroom to freshen up. He stepped out after twenty minutes with a white towel wrapped around his waist hanging low. He blow dried his hair a bit, setting them in a hairstyle. He entered his walk-in closet, chose a suit and dressed up.


    He headed outside going to the garage and drove his car to Stella''s apartment.


    Adam arrived twenty minutes earlier than the said time, so he stepped out and decided to wait for her.


    "I am downstairs. Do not hurry up. Take your time." He left her a message and waited patiently for her.


    After ten minutes later, Stella came downstairs and her eyes fell on a handsome man, leaning lazily against the side of a black car, clad in a dark smokey gray checkered dress pants and coat with an off-white button-down shirt. His hairs were pulled back but not too tightly, giving them a sleek look and unlike their usual rough look.


    Stella was mesmerized by the sight before her. She had known that her new Boss was unusually handsome, but this much, she didn''t know that.


    Adam felt a pair of eyes on him, making him raise his head to look at the owner. He forgot to breathe looking at the girl before him, dressed in a dark navy blue blazer with a white button-down shirt inside and paired with a charcoal black skinny jeans. Her hair tied up in a messy bun, a few locks were let out framing her small face perfectly. Adam lowered his gaze as not to get caught by her. His eyes fell on her ankle length black leather boots.


    He was somewhat amused by her sense of dressing. When he had said formal, he meant those formal dresses that girls usually wear to such events. She looked more like the CEO of a company rather than his assistant dressed liked that. But he was happy with her choice of dressing.


    Moreover, she reminded him of ''Puss In Boots''. All she needed was a cowboy hat and one of those fencing swords. He couldn''t help but laugh lightly at his own thoughts.


    "Why are you laughing?" Stella couldn''t help but ask, looking at his amused expressions. "Is there something wrong with me?" She asked looking at herself.


    "No. Get in." He said opening the car door for her. Once she was settled in, he went to the driver''s side, getting in, he drove towards the banquet.

 Chapter 26 - The Ex-Boss

    They arrived at the hotel where the product launch was supposed to happen. Both of them exited the car at the same time, grabbing attention from the people present at the entrance. The couple looked eye-catchingly gorgeous.


    Adam handed the keys to a valet who was standing near him. He then glanced at Stella who had made her way around the car and was standing next to him now. Stella looked up and smiled at him. Adam smiled back at her and headed in with Stella following two steps behind him.


    Adam stopped in his tracks to turn around and looked at her, narrowing his eyes during the process. "What have I told you about walking behind me?" Adam asked her.


    "I know that you don''t like it, but I am here as your assistant, not a friend." Stella replied, her voice barely audible, but enough for Adam to understand.


    "So what?" Adam asked her again.


    "So, I cannot walk next to you." Stella almost wanted to smack him on his head.


    "Yes you can." Adam was adamant, not wanting to step back. "You will walk next to me little lady, whether you like it or not." He added stubbornly.


    "But, Adam--" She wanted to reply but was interrupted by him. "Stella, please listen to me." He said coming one step closer to her. "I know what you are thinking. I can understand your concern as well. But I really won''t like you walking behind me. You are my friend. And don''t worry, no one will say anything to you."


    Stella was still a bit hesitant, looking everywhere but at him.


    "Do you think just anyone can have the guts to bully someone by my side. Do you have such less faith in your friend?" He asked her looking deeply in her eyes, giving her a bitter smile.


    "Okay! Fine." Stella raised her hands up in the air in defeat. ''Seriously, no one can argue with this guy.''


    Adam gave her a toothy grin listening to her reply.


    After their little banter, they entered the hall side by side. As soon as they entered, a number of people approached Adam, paying their respects and greetings to get in the good books of the young man. But unknown to them, Adam was unfazed by all of this. His Dad never raised him to be like those people who easily got manipulated. Adam didn''t pay any heed to their flattering. He hated such people, who would do anything just to earn some benefits for their own selves.


    Listening to their boring one-sided conversations, Adam''s gaze drifted to his surroundings looking for a particular person. He found her sitting on a stool by the bar.


    ''What is she doing there?'' His eyes narrowed at her petite figure. "Excuse me!" He said to the people surrounding him and turned to head to the bar without waiting for their reply.


    "What are you doing here?" He asked her, taking the free stool next to her.


    "What do you think?" She rolled her eyes at him.


    "You roll your eyes a lot. Don''t you?" Adam asked her, which was more like a statement.


    "Only at those who annoy me a lot." She retorted.


    Adam couldn''t help but chuckle at her reply. "Would you like some?" She asked him tilting her glass towards him.


    "Thank you, but no. I don''t drink at such events. And I have to drive us back as well." He declined her politely asking the bartender for a glass of fresh orange juice.


    Just as his juice was served, he heard someone. "Mr. Adam. It''s a pleasure meeting you. It is my honor to have you here as the chief guest."


    Adam turned back to look at the owner of the voice, only to find the host of the event smiling at him. Adam only nodded in response. He felt something was not right with the little lady next to him.


    Stella''s hand froze in mid-air when she heard the familiar voice. Looking at her expressions, Adam couldn''t help but ask her, "Are you okay?"


    Stella came out of her trance and nodded meekly.


    "Who''s this beautiful lady? Aren''t you going to introduce her?" The man spoke up again.


    Adam wanted to punch the guy so bad for eyeing Stella but tried his best to control. "She''s my new assistant." He replied keeping his anger at bay.


    Stella turned around reluctantly. She couldn''t escape the situation even though she wanted to do so badly.


    Before Adam could tell her name to Mr. Albert, he heard him say, "You? How did you even get in?" Adam was confused at his sudden outburst. ''They know each other.''


    "Leave the place yourself or I will call security to drag you out." Albert spoke begrudgingly.


    His sentence was enough to send Adam in a rampage mode. "Please, go ahead and try." Adma spoke up, a smirk gracing his face.


    Albert could feel the temperature drop down around him. It was only then he realized that Adam had introduced her as his new assistant. He shivered thinking of the way he had just spoken to her.


    "I am sorry Mr. Adam. I just couldn''t help it." His tone changed completely to a professional one. "But I must say, for a man of your standard, you shouldn''t surround yourself with immoral people." He continued.


    "Excuse me?" Adam scoffed.


    "I apologise if I am being rude but she had worked for my company already and that too as my assistant. I know her character better than anyone." Albert said with a deep meaning behind his words.


    Adam was burning with rage. ''How dare he slander her and that too when I am here!'' Just as he was about to say something, a young lady who was standing behind Albert spoke, adding fuel to the fire. "Yes, I was working in the company then too. She used to be quite frank with the male staff, flirting with them all the time. She even tried to seduce Boss. Thank goodness, Boss isn''t like those men who would easily surrender before a woman''s charm."


    Stella, who was standing quietly so far, turned and walked past them disappearing into the crowd.


    Albert was grinning like a fool thinking he should give some raise to his assistant for her work now. ''She will surely be fired now. She definitely deserves this.'' He thought to himself.


    "Say that again!" A cold voice brought Albert back to the present. "Say that again." Adam repeated his words.


    Just as Albert or his assistant opened their mouths, Adam spoke again, "One more word about her and I will rip off your tongues from your throat." His voice was calm yet so cold to send shivers down their spines.


    "And Mr. Albert, I am sure your wife would love to that you''re not the kind of person who will throw himself at every beautiful girl he lays his eyes on." Adam said boring his eyes into him, his voice laced with sarcasm.


    "One word about this to a single soul, and you two will know the ruthless side of Adam Levinson." After giving his final warning, Adam headed in the direction that Stella had run into.

 Chapter 27 - Lets Get You Home

    Adam headed in the direction that Stella had run into, taking huge strides. He looked everywhere but couldn''t find her. He was worried sick. He would have preferred her giving some response to that arse and his assistant rather than running away quietly. He tried to find her in every nook and corner of the hall but couldn''t succeed.


    He found a waiter standing by the entrance of the hall and decided to ask him.


    "Excuse me! Have you seen a girl going out of here? She''s wearing a navy blue blazer and black jeans, her hairs tied up in a bun. She''s around this tall." He asked him, using his hand to depict her height.


    "I think I did, Sir. She was running down the hallway and took the elevator." He said pointed to the corridor to his right.


    "Thank you." Adam made his way to the elevator after thanking him. There were twenty floors in the building, excluding the roof, he wasn''t sure which one she took the elevator to but decided to start looking from the roof.


    He took the elevator up to the twentieth floor. Exiting it, he made a left turn, taking the stairs he made it to the roof. His eyes looked everywhere for the little lady but couldn''t seem to find her.


    "Stella?" He shouted at the top of his lungs only to get no response. "Stella? Where are you?" He shouted again but did not get any reply.


    Just as he was about to give up and leave, he heard a slight sniffing sound followed by another one. He tried to find the source of the sound looking everywhere. He had a rough idea about the owner of the sounds.


    After two more minutes he finally found the girl sitting in an inconspicuous corner all by herself. He went close to her and sat down next to her, taking off his coat. The night breeze was a bit chilly since autumn was approaching. He draped his coat over her shoulders, careful of his actions as not to startle her.


    Feeling someone sitting next to her, Stella was a bit shocked but as a familiar scent surrounded her, her senses calmed down a little. She felt a pair of eyes boring into her as if trying to peek into her soul. After a few minutes, she hesitantly looked up to her left.


    A pair of gray eyes looked back into her teary hazel ones. Adam felt his soul being sucked away looking at her pitiful state. Her eyes were red and swollen as a result of being rubbed over and over again. She was biting down her bottom lip hard which shivered ever so slightly.


    ''She must have been crying, sitting here all by herself.'' Adam thought to himself. His heart was a mess right now.


    "Stella? Are you alright?" He asked her trying to remain calm, his voice as gentle as a spring breeze.


    Stella broke down in tears listening to his usual tone.


    Adam couldn''t hold it in anymore looking at her crying like a child. "Hey hey! What happened? Are you hurt somewhere? Did I do something wrong? I am sorry."


    The more he talked to her gently, the more she cried. Adam didn''t know what could he do to make her stop. He couldn''t stand to see her so broken like this. He threw all his rationality away and engulfed her in a hug, holding her tightly in his embrace.


    "It''s alright Stella. I am here. No one''s going to harm you. I promise." He said, patting her back lightly as if lulling a child to sleep.


    No matter what he said, her crying didn''t stop. He stayed there quietly, holding her close to him. Stella cried her heart out holding tightly onto his shirt.


    After a while, Stella calmed down, her crying turned into occasional sniffing sounds. "I didn''t do it." She said looking up at him.


    Adam heaved out a sigh hearing her talk finally.


    "I didn''t do it! I didn''t do any of those things." She added in between her sniffs. Adam was confused about what she was talking but soon realized that she was referring to what they had accused her for.


    "I know. You don''t have to explain it to me." Adam replied her patting her back lightly.


    His response made Stella''s grip on his shirt tighter. Adam looked at her tilting his head back slightly. She looked like she wanted to say something but was hesitating.


    "You don''t have to talk about it now. We''ll talk when you feel like talking about it." He said gently to her.


    Stella nodded her head which now rested on his shoulder. "I-I swear, I didn''t do it." She said only making Adam frown.


    "If you said you didn''t, it means you didn''t. I trust you. And I don''t want to hear another word about it." Adam scolded her, his arms still wrapped around her, holding her close to himself.


    They stayed like that for a while. After her emotions were stable, Adam helped her up.


    "Let''s get you home." Adam said patting her head.


    "What about the event?" She asked, looking up at him.


    "What event? I am taking you home and that''s final." He said, narrowing his eyes at her.


    Stella could only nod in response. Her gaze fell on Adam''s shirt which now had a wet patch along with her smudged mascara. She felt guilty about it.


    They headed downstairs together with Adam''s coat still draped over her shoulders. When they were leaving the ground floor, Adam didn''t notice a pair of eyes observing them as his mind was still occupied by the lady next to him. A few minutes later a black Audi left the venue, heading towards Stella''s apartment.


    Just after the car had left, a girl entered one of the suites. "It''s done, Sir." She said, a smile blossoming on her face.


    "Good job." A man replied, leaning back lazily against the sofa, twirling a glass of wine in his right hand with a dangerous smile on his face.

 Chapter 28 - A Break In

    Arriving at her apartment''s building, Adam parked the car and stepped out, going around the car to help Stella out.


    Stella handed him his coat back once she was out. "I am sorry about your shirt." She said looking at the slightly damp black spot on his white shirt.


    "It''s no big deal." Adam replied giving her a sincere smile.


    Stella opened and closed her mouth a couple of times wanting to say something looking everywhere but at him. All the while Adam looked at her intently, waiting patiently for her to say whatever she wanted to.


    "Thank you." Stella finally spoke up, her head bent down slightly, her eyes boring into the ground.


    Adam didn''t reply to her for a minute, taking in her fidgeting self. "It''s alright. You don''t have to thank me Stella." He finally spoke up.


    "I will be going then." She said looking up at him.


    Adam nodded without saying anything. Stella took it as a yes and turned towards the main entrance of the building only to be followed by him.


    Stella turned around looking at him with her brows furrowed and confusion written on her face in bold letters.


    "I will see you off till your door." Adam replied her unspoken question.


    "You don''t have to. I can go in myself. Moreover, I have troubled you enough already for today." She said giving him an apologetic look.


    ''You could trouble me for the rest of my life Stella if you want to. I will have no problem with that too.'' He thought to himself.


    "It''s no trouble for me and stop bringing up what happened earlier today." He said giving her a Stern look. "In fact, I am the one who should be apologizing right now. I shouldn''t have brought you to the event." Adam gave her a sad smile.


    Before Stella could say anything in reply he continued, "How can I forget you had worked for the same company holding the event? I had read your resume, I should have remembered it."


    "It''s not your fault. Even if you would have remembered it, you could not foresee the future." She said giving him a smile. "You can walk me in if you want to." She continued to divert his mind from blaming himself.


    Adam nodded and followed her quietly inside the building. Taking the elevator, they arrived at the 4th floor. They headed towards her apartment door side by side.


    Adam looked at the dark brown colored door with 4A carved on a golden plate that was fixed on the door. Adam felt something was not right. Looking at the door with his scrutinizing eyes, he found that the door was not completely shut.


    "Did you lock your apartment before leaving?" Adam asked her, his voice devoid of the usual gentleness that Stella had grown used to.


    "Yes! I did lock it. I have the keys right here with me." She replied with a pout.


    "We won''t be needing the keys anymore." Adam spoke as she was fishing the keys from her blazers inner pocket.


    "What do you mean?" She was at a loss.


    Adam looked at her with a raised eyebrow, extended his hand and pushed the door open. "Stay close to me." He said moving in the house.


    He observed the door lock only to find it broken. Looking at the surroundings he couldn''t help but frown. The entire house was turned upside down. It was a mess.


    "Looks like someone broke in." He said looking at Stella who was standing by the door, flabbergasted.


    "Did you have anything valuable in the house?" Adam asked her, breaking her out of her trance.


    "N-N-No." She said shaking her head sideways. "All of the important things are in the banks locker." She continued looking at the mess around her.


    "Good." Adam said, heading further into her apartment only to find that the entire place depicting the same condition he had seen outside. Stella followed him quietly. She couldn''t comprehend what had happened here to make the place look like this.


    "Go check your all your documents." Adam spoke turning his attention to her which she only nodded.


    She headed to her bedroom with Adam in tow. She rummaged through her closet and finally found the file bag she was looking for. She checked the file to find all her documents in there in perfect condition.


    "They are all in here." She told Adam who was looking at his surroundings.


    ''It''s not a normal break in. No one in their right mind would do this to a place. They didn''t even bother taking her documents.'' He thought.


    He turned his head to the little lady once again. "Do you have any idea who might have done this?"


    Stella looked up at him, shaking her head slowly. "I really don''t."

 Chapter 29 - Exposed

    Adam looked at the little lady sitting on the single sofa chair in the room. Looking at her worried expression, he couldn''t help but feel bad.


    "Pack your stuff." He broke the silence.


    "W-What?" Stella was confused by his statement.


    "I said, pack up your stuff. You are leaving with me, you can not stay here. What if the person comes back?" He said sitting on her bed, as if he owned the place.


    "You have a point. I will file a complaint to the person in charge of the building later on, till then I will stay at a hotel." She said standing up.


    "What hotel? You will stay at my place until the matter is resolved." Adam said as if it was not a big deal.


    Stella almost lost her balance listening to him. She turned around, looking at him with her eyes widened. "W-What?" She asked him.


    "You will be staying with me until the matter is resolved." He patiently replied to her.


    "No way! I am so not doing that. I will stay in a hotel." She replied.


    "If you want to stay at a hotel, then alright, you can stay at one. But I will be staying at the hotel as well." He said, standing firmly on his ground. There was no way he would let her live alone until he gets to the bottom of the matter.


    Stella was looking at him with a horrified expression.


    "Stella! Hear me out for once please." He said getting up and closing the distance between them. "Whoever did this didn''t take anything. They just caused a havoc here. They just messed up the place. What if they actually came for you in the first place? But you weren''t here so they did all of this." He continued looking at her intently.


    "What if they try to come back and finish whatever they started?" He looked at her, his gaze full of feelings. ''I have lost my family already, I can''t lose you as well.'' He thought the later to himself.


    "But Adam, me staying at your place, it isn''t okay." She tried to reason with him.


    "I know. But trust me Stella, I wouldn''t have suggested this if there was some other way." He explained to her. "Please. It''s only for a couple of days." Adam gave her a pitiful look.


    "Umm¡­ alright. I will get on with the packing now." Stella had no other choice but to agree with the mulish guy before her.


    "I will wait for you in the living room." He said heading outside.


    After twenty minutes Stella came with a trolley bag in tow and a big hand bag in the other one.


    Adam took them from her, more specifically, he snatched them. Adam headed out with Stella following him closely.


    Adam put her things in the trunk of his car and settled in the driver''s seat. He drove the car in the direction of his house.


    Stella leaned back in the car seat, tired from the day''s events, her eyelids dropped down.


    After a while, she opened her eyes with a startle because of her vibrating phone. She picked it up and noticed the time. She realized that she had slept for half an hour. Looking out the window she found that they were still on the road.


    "You can sleep a bit more. It will take another half hour to reach there." Adam said as he noticed the person next to him moving, his eyes still looking forward at the road ahead.


    "Why is it taking so long?" Stella couldn''t help but ask him trying to suppress a yawn threatening to escape her mouth.


    "Well, what do you expect? I live in the outskirts of the main city.


    Stella''s eyes widened at his answer. Her mind drifted back to their conversation when he had dropped her off the first time.


    Feeling her gaze, Adam turned his face towards her, "What?"


    "So you live in the C district?" Stella asked him.


    "Yeah!" He answered her briskly.


    "Do you have any other properties?" She asked, narrowing her eyes in the process.


    "Not in Berlin." He replied still looking ahead. "Why do you ask?"


    "Curiosity." She gave him a one word reply, dropping off the topic for later.


    Adam nodded his head, not doubting her intentions.


    Stella continued to stare at him for a while before looking outside through the windshield of the car. She was lost in her thoughts trying to figure out why Adam had lied to her about his address.


    ''Why would he lie to me on such a tiny matter?'' She couldn''t help but think of a reason for his lying. Why would the Adam Levinson, whom the entire business world of Germany praised, lie just to drop her off home? She turned her head slightly to look at him again, her soul trembling slightly, trying to figure out why.

 Chapter 30 - Shes The One

    Half an hour later a car pulled up in the driveway, making the old butler come out to greet his Young Master. But he was rooted to his spot just outside the entrance watching the scene unfold before his eyes. Just as his master came out, the passenger door opened and came out a young girl. The old butler forgot to even pay his greetings looking at them with his eyes widened.


    "Uncle Rob!" Adam''s voice brought him back, out of his shocked state.


    "Young Master." He dipped his head down a bit in respect.


    "Can you make arrangements for her stay? She will be staying here for a couple of days." Adam spoke, leaning lazily against the side of his car.


    The old butler was once again at a loss. He didn''t know what to say. His mind drifted to the conversation he had had with his Young Master earlier in the day. ''Is she the same girl his master was talking about?''


    "Use the guest room on the first floor." Not getting a reply from him, Adam spoke again. ''The old man must be at a loss for words.'' He thought.


    The old butler only nodded.


    "And ask someone to take out the luggage and place it in the room." Adam continued.


    "It will take around twenty minutes to get the room ready." The old man finally spoke up. "Should I ask a maid to fix up some dinner for you?" He added.


    "Yes. We haven''t had dinner yet. But ask them to make something light." Adam replied nodding his head.


    All the while Stella was standing quietly next to him, looking at the grand house before her. To say it was a house, was an understatement. It was no less than a mansion. She was awestruck, not by the prodigious place but it''s resplendency.


    "Let''s go inside." Adam''s voice brought her out of her thoughts and she only nodded in response.


    "Oh! I apologise for not introducing you guys to each other." He said smacking his palm against his own forehead lightly. "Stella, meet the old butler of the place. You can just call him Uncle Rob." He said pointing at the old butler.


    "And meet Stella. She''s my new assistant." Adam said to old butler who nodded at the little lady, "Ms. Stella! It''s a pleasure to meet you."


    "Please, just call me Stella." She said nodding back at him.


    "Let''s go inside now, I am starving." Adam spoke up.


    As they were going inside, Adam stopped next to the old butler, patting his shoulder lightly. "Whatever you are thinking is true. She''s the one." He winked at the butler, making sure to keep his voice low.


    The old butler''s eyes widened, at his Young Master''s reply to his unasked question.


    Adam and Stella made their way to the living room and sat down. Adam leaned against the sofa closing his eyes.


    "Adam?" Stella''s voice made him open them again who was sitting across him. "Yes Stella?" He replied, now looking at her.


    "Thank you." She said with a smile on her lips.


    "What are you thanking me for silly girl?" Adam asked her with a raised eyebrow.


    "Thank you for everything you have done for me so far." She replied.


    Adam rolled his eyes, "Thank me one more time and I will forget that I even know you."


    "Relax! I won''t again." She said with a pout, making Adam smile.


    "I would love to give you a tour of the place but it''s already late and you must be tired so you can tour the place tomorrow and get yourself acknowledged with it." Adam said to her.


    Stella nodded her head in response. It was better to get to know the place since she will be living here for a couple of days.


    "You have a beautiful place." Stella broke the silence.


    "Yeah!" Adam gave her a vague reply.


    "Don''t tell me that you don''t like it?" Stella couldn''t help but ask.


    ''It''s not that I don''t like the place, it just gets lonely here.'' He wanted to say it out loud but chose not to.


    "I would love to have a place like this." Stella spoke up again.


    "You can have this one. I will give it to you for free." Adam replied with seriousness.


    Stella took his reply as joke and laughed it off. "You are funny sometimes."


    ''What are you laughing for? I am serious girl. All you need to do is ask and this place will be yours, of course, including the owner as well.'' He thought looking at her intently.


    The harmonious environment of the living room was interrupted by the old butler. "Dinner is served." He said clearing his throat.


    Adam nodded and got up, heading to the dining room with Stella following him closely.

 Chapter 31 - Goodnight

    In the dining room which was more like a hall, Adam and Stella sat across from each other. The dishes served were piping hot, steam coming out from them. The old butler left not wanting to be the third wheel, after making sure they didn''t need anything else.


    They both dug in, eating in silence. None of them spoke about what had happened earlier in the day. As for Stella, she decided not to bother herself about his lie for the time being and left the questioning for tomorrow. She was too tired to deal with anything else for now. All she wanted to do at the moment was to eat the delicious food before her to her satisfaction and have a good sleep.


    Adam glanced at Stella every now and then in between his bites. He could sense that her mind was stuck somewhere else. ''May be she''s just stressed over the day''s event.'' He wanted to ask her but decided against it as he didn''t want to ruin her mood. He just couldn''t stand to see those dazzling eyes tear up again.


    After getting done with their dinner, Adam guided her to the first floor to the guest room she would be staying in.


    "That''s my room over there." He said pointing to the door opposite to the one they were standing before. "If there''s any problem just wake me up." He added.


    Opening the guest room''s door, he ushered her in without crossing the threshold. He stood in the same spot and once again reminded her, "Don''t hesitate waking me up if there''s any problem. If you want to drink something, there''s a small refrigerator close to the balcony."


    Stella nodded in response, "Okay. I will keep that in mind. Thank you so much."


    Adam narrowed his eyes at her listening to that thank you of hers again. "Stop thanking me. If you really want to thank me then treat me out for lunch someday."


    Stella took his words seriously, "I definitely will."


    Adam could only shake his head in helplessness. ''As if I will ever let you pay the bill for it.''


    "I am sure Uncle Rob must have arranged some nightwear for you." Adam told her, shoving his hands inside the pockets of his dress pants.


    "I brought some with me." Stella replied meekly.


    "Then I will let you rest now. Off you go to bed. Good night." Adam gave her a gentle smile.


    "Good night to you as well." Stella smiled back at him.


    Adam nodded and turned around towards his room which was actually opposite to hers, just across the hallway.


    Stella only closed the door once she saw him enter his room. She freshened up quickly and changed into a baggy t-shirt and cotton shorts. She jumped on the bed, dragging the quilt up to her neck and fell asleep as soon as she closed her eyes.


    In the room opposite to hers, Adam sat on the edge of his bed wearing only black silk trousers. His damp hairs were a mess with water dripping from the ends on to the ground. Now that he was not worried about the little lady anymore knowing that she must be sleeping peacefully by now, his mind drifted to the day''s event.


    He picked up his cellphone, dialing a number, he put the phone to his ear waiting for the call to connect.


    "What is it with you now?" A man spoke groggily, picking up the call after the third ring.


    "I need you to do something for me. But do it as soon as you can." Adam replied.


    "What is it?" The other man asked.


    Adam slowly explained the details of what had happened, not missing out a single thing.


    "It''s damn obvious Adam. Who else it can be if not for that pervert?" The man asked him.


    "Do you think he has the guts to go against me Blake?" Adam asked him in return.


    Blake Collins was not only the owner of a number of big clubs in the city but he had his own underground network. He could find out about anything as long as he wants. He was also responsible for Adam''s security.


    "You have a point." Blake replied.


    "Look into it, and assign someone for her protection. Though I will try to keep her by my side until the matter is resolved." Adam asked again.


    "Okay, I will try to find out as soon as I can." Blake replied with seriousness, the usual playfulness in his voice was long gone.


    Adam hummed in response, cutting off the call. For a moment he had his doubts on Albert but after thinking it through, he didn''t think it was him. That sleazeball could never have the guts to against him no matter what.


    What worried Adam more was not knowing whether the person was after him or Stella? His mind wouldn''t be at rest till he gets rid of the person. Heaving out a sigh Adam decided to finally resign to his bed. He fell asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow.

 Chapter 32 - Why Did You Lie To Me?

    Stella woke up late the next morning. She got out of the bed lazily scratching the back of her head. She glanced at the peach colored wall clock stretching out her arms, but her arms stopped midair when she realized the time. It was over ten o''clock already.


    "Shit!." Cursing herself she left the room, running out in her disheveled state. As soon as she made it out of the door, she ran into something hard. She looked up and saw a pair of gray eyes looking at her, filled with playfulness.


    "Where are you running to?" Adam asked her, raising a brow in the process.


    "Office. Late." She said taking in deep breaths and rubbing down her nose to ease the pain.


    "You needed some rest, so I called in for a day off for you. Don''t worry." Adam gave her a polite smile.


    "Thank you so much." Stella replied. "By the way, why aren''t you in office?" She was confused about why he was still here.


    "I decided to take off as well. There was nothing much to do for today anyways." He replied.


    "But aren''t you the Boss?" Stella asked, to which he replied with a smirk, "I am the boss, that''s exactly why I can take off."


    "And what is it with you and running into me?" He asked with his brows furrowed seeing her still rubbing her nose.


    "It''s not my fault that you always stop before me." Stella retorted.


    "Well, then be careful of your surroundings." Adam scoffed. "I was about to knock on the door when you opened it. Go and freshen up, I am waiting in the dining room for you." He said turning around and going downstairs. Stella looked at his shrinking back, shrugging off.


    After fifteen minutes or so, Stella came down, almost running. "Sorry for making you wait." She said taking the seat opposite to Adam.


    "It''s alright." Adam smiled at her. He gestured the maid standing by to serve breakfast.


    Soon they dug in, enjoying the western breakfast which included Spanish omelette, french toast, fresh orange juice, milk and cornflakes along with  a coffee for Adam and an English tea for her


    "Isn''t it too much for two people?" Stella couldn''t help but ask looking at the various dishes served before her.


    "I didn''t know what you have for breakfast, so Uncle Rob prepared a bunch of breakfast dishes." Adam replied.


    Stella nodded and continued to eat. The rest of the breakfast went in silence.


    After finishing his breakfast, Adam looked at the girl before her who was now taking small sips of her English tea. He picked up his coffee mug, taking sips leisurely he spoke up, "Let''s go."


    Stella raised her eyes to look at him. "Where?" She asked with confusion.


    "I will show you around." He replied only to get a nod from her.


    After getting done with their breakfast, they made a tour of the house with Adam leading the way.


    Stella was utterly awestruck by the interior of the place. Even though the place was huge but it still had a cozy and warm touch to it.


    Adam would look at her every now and then, looking at her mesmerized expressions. ''She looks so adorable with those hazel eyes almost popping out.''


    "Who''s the interior designer and architect of this place? I am definitely going to hire them to build my house in the future." He heard her speaking out of nowhere, breaking the silence as they were headed to the front garden.


    "I am sorry to say but that''s not possible because they are long dead." Adam chuckled. "My grandfather was the one who built the place actually, he himself was the architecture. Later on Dad made some changes to the theme and stuff. So, you can say that he was sort of the interior designer of the place." He continued.


    "I am sorry." Stella said realizing she shouldn''t have said it.


    "Why are you being sorry silly girl?" Adam knocked on her forehead.


    She shook her head sideways giving him a sincere smile, "I am glad you didn''t do anything to the place. Otherwise, it would have looked boring and dull just like your office."


    "Whatever." Adam rolled his eyes at her. ''My choice isn''t that bad.'' He thought.


    "Feel free to use the place just like your own." Adam said looking at the water fountain in the front porch. They were now seated on a bench in the garden, next to each other.


    "Thank you." Stella thanked him only to get a scoff from him which she ignored. She was really thankful to him. No one has treated her this good after her parents.


    "Adam?" She spoke turning her head to her side, looking at him.


    Adam shifted his eyes to her, "Yes, Stella?"


    Stella looked at him for a while, deciding to finally ask him what she had wanted to since last night, she spoke slowly, "Why did you lie to me?"


    Adam furrowed his brows at her question. "What? About what?" He was confused completely. He couldn''t remember lying to her about anything so far.


    Stella was quiet, gazing into those deep gray eyes which somehow made her feel safe. She finally opened her mouth after a minute or so which felt like an eternity to Adam. "Why did you lie to me about where you live?"

 Chapter 33 - Promise Me

    "Why did you lie to me about where you live?" Adam looked at Stella with confusion. He furrowed his brows thinking when had he done that. Just as he was about to voice out his thoughts, his mind drifted off to the conversation they had when he had dropped her off the first time. He had said it in the spur of moment just to make her agree. He didn''t think that she would remember it.


    "I-I am sorry." He could only apologize about it now.


    "Why did you?" Stella asked him again.


    Adam heaved out of a sigh, "I didn''t want you going back alone that day."


    "That''s it?" Stella narrowed her eyes at him.


    Adam nodded in response only to make Stella raise an eyebrow. "And why is that?" She asked him again. "Why is it that you didn''t want me going back alone?" She continued.


    Adam looked away, choosing not to answer her. He couldn''t just tell her about his feelings. He was afraid that she would hate him and might even leave the job.


    "Isn''t it normal for employees to return back to their homes a bit late? Why do you care so much about it? Or me?" She continued questioning him, still looking at him.


    Adam did not give her a reply, and chose to ignore her. He continued sitting quietly, looking into the distance.


    "Adam? I am asking you something." Stella was getting angry because of his ignorance. "Adam?" She called him once again only to meet by his silence.


    "Okay! Don''t answer me if you don''t want to." She said raising her voice a bit, getting up from the bench. "I am leaving, I will find myself some hotel to stay in for the time being." She said turning around.


    Adam finally turned his head to look at her only to find her on her way back inside. "Stella?" He called her but didn''t get any reply.


    "Stella?" He shouted once again. He was frustrated, running his hands through his hairs which were already disheveled by the wind blowing.


    He looked at her retreating back, his eyes filled with complex feelings. "Crap", he cursed himself out loud getting up from the bench, heading inside.


    "Stella? Hear me out at least." He tried to stop her as she was already on the stairs going to the first floor, but didn''t get any reply.


    He followed her up to her room and saw her dragging her suitcase. ''Didn''t she put her clothes in the closet?'' He thought looking at the suitcase that was being wheeled out by her.


    "Where are you going?" He asked her with aggravation.


    "I told you. I will find myself a hotel." She replied without looking up at him.


    "No you''re not." He said, gritting his teeth.


    "Yes I am." Stella replied looking into her hand bag, making sure she didn''t forget anything.


    Adam was enraged because of her stubbornness. He tried to reason with her, "You can not leave, no unless the matter is resolved."


    She walked out of the guest room along with her handbag and suitcase. She stood before him in the hallway, looked into his eyes, "Aren''t we friends? Why can''t you tell me the real reason? Either you tell me or I am leaving. The choice is yours Adam." She waited for him to say anything but didn''t get a response. "Thank you so much for your hospitality. We will meet tomorrow in the office, Sir." She gave him a polite smile, one that was professional.


    She turned around to leave but Adam stopped her, grabbing her right wrist. "You are not going anywhere." He said holding her wrist firmly but not too tight. "I am leaving." Stella tried to take her hand back only to make his grip more firm.


    Adam pulled Stella towards himself and pushed her against the wall, careful not to use too much of force. He trapped her by placing both his hands on either side of her head.


    "Why are you being so stubborn?" He asked her, narrowing his eyes in the process.


    "You are the one who is being stubborn here. Can''t you be honest with me? Can''t you just tell me the truth?" Stella retorted, glaring at him.


    "The truth about what?" He asked her to which she replied, "Why are you so good to me? You have known me for hardly a week. Why do you treat me so good?" She finally voiced out what has been bothering her so much.


    "You want to know the truth as to why I am so good to you? Are sure you can handle it?" He asked her with a smirk to get a firm nod in response.


    "But promise me one thing. You won''t avoid me, and you won''t leave the job. Promise me, and I will tell you the reason." He said looking at the little lady trapped in between his arms.


    "I promise." Stella replied, her voice full of confidence. "No matter what your answer is, I won''t leave the job or avoid you."


    He looked at her deeply only to see a pair of hazel eyes looking back at his gray ones.

 Chapter 34 - I Like You

    Adam stared at her quietly for a while. After a minute or so, he finally broke the silence lingering in the hallway. "I like you."


    Stella stared back at him without blinking, even after he had given her his answer. "W-What?" She asked him, her voice barely a whisper but Adam caught on it.


    "I said, I like you." Adam said once again, this time a bit slowly. "Why are you so quiet? You are the one who wanted to know why. Now, when I have told you, you are standing here so quietly." Adam looked at her amused.


    "I-I¡­" Stella tried to reply but nothing came out of her mouth. Adam kept looking the little lady as she opened and closed her mouth like a fish.


    "Don''t tell me you are going to run for the hills now." He said grinning from ear to ear. "Stella?" He called her name softly. ''Say something, please.''


    "Okay." He finally heard her voice after a few more minutes. He was flabbergasted, getting just an okay from her in response. ''I just told you that I like you. Who replies to that with an okay.''


    "What do you mean by okay?" He couldn''t help but ask her. "I just told you that I like you, and you are saying okay."


    "Umm¡­" Stella wanted to say something but her mind wasn''t able to form words. Just as she was about to open her mouth again, she heard him.


    "I know you don''t like me back, and I don''t expect you to. It''s just there is something about you that attracts me towards you. No matter how hard I try, I just couldn''t stay away from you. My eyes keep shifting to you whenever you are within my sight." His words made her eyes widen, her mind was hazy. No one has ever said such words to her. She didn''t know how to reply to him.


    "You were right that I treated you good for some reason. The reason is that I like you, I like you a lot. I couldn''t help but worry about you. I cannot stand seeing you sad or unhappy. Whenever you tear up, it hurts me here." He said pointing to a finger to his chest.


    "I don''t expect you to return back my feelings. I don''t want anything in return. Just let me continue liking you. Let me show you how I feel for you. I only have one request, don''t take my right to like you from me." The mischievous grin was long gone from his face. He looked at her face intently, taking in all the minor changes in her expressions.


    "Stella? You will let me do that, won''t you?" He asked her, his voice barely audible. He was scared. He was scared not because she didn''t like him back, but because she might take his right away to like her. He didn''t mind following her for the rest of his life as long as she allowed him. But he was afraid that she might stop him from doing so, and he wouldn''t be able to say no to her.


    When he didn''t hear a reply, he continued, "Stella! You are the only girl I have felt like this for. Please, just let me continue liking you, let me protect you, let me care for you. I am not asking anything in return. I don''t even need anything In return. Just let me do these for you. Please?" He was almost begging her now, his eyes looking at the girl, filled with complex emotions.


    "Will you allow me to do that?" He asked her once again. This time Stella replied him with a hesitant nod. She was deep in thoughts. Though she didn''t like him but she couldn''t just his right to like someone from him, even if that someone is her. ''He has been treating me good so far, I just can''t break his heart in return.'' She thought inwardly.


    "Stella, speak up. I want to hear it from you." Adam asked her, placing a finger under her chin and tilting it up slightly to make her look into his eyes. "Answer me Stella." He said once again.


    Stella bit down on her lower lip and nodded. "It''s up to you whom you like or not." She gave him a vague answer.


    A smile bloomed on Adam''s face. As long as she gave him a chance, he might be able to make her fall for him. He has never been this happy in his entire life.


    "Thank you so much." He thanked her giving her a hearty smile. Their faces were inches apart, his finger still under her chin, holding it up, his other hand still on the wall, supporting his entire weight now.


    His gaze fell on her natural pink lips as she bit down on the lower one again, making him gulp. He slowly leaned his head in, looking into her eyes, making her eyelids flutter like the wings of a butterfly.

 Chapter 35 - I Will Make You Mine

    He slowly leaned his head in, looking into her eyes, making her eyelids flutter like the wings of a butterfly. Their lips were merely an inch apart. Stella shut her eyes tightly, her hands by her sides, gripping onto her clothes tightly. She wanted to push him away, but didn''t have the strength to. Her mind was in a buzz.


    Looking at her natural pink lips, Adam couldn''t help but think about how good they might taste. Just as he was about to touch them with his own, a loud clatter brought back Adam out of his reverie. He turned his head to look at the source of the sound, only to find spilled coffee on the other end of the hallway along with the mug it was in. He looked up from the floor to find the old butler rooted to the marbled floor, his eyes popping out of their sockets.


    "Uncle Rob! Isn''t it a good day to spill some coffee?" He said giving him a toothy grin.


    "I am sorry to interrupt Young Master." The old butler said, his eyes darting around everywhere but at the couple.


    Stella opened her eyes hearing the commotion. She followed Adam''s line of sight to find the poor old butler standing there awkwardly. Stella''s face turned red and she looked down at her own feet. She wanted to run back into her room so bad, but she was still trapped in between his arms.


    "It''s alright! Just ask someone to clean it up later, don''t do it yourself." Adam gave him a glare, making the poor guy return back downstairs.


    He turned his head back to watch the little elf trapped in between his arms who was now blushing. He brought his mouth close to her right ear. "And you little lady, you don''t have anything to worry about. I won''t cross any lines unless I have your permission. I got carried away for a minute there. I am sorry about it." He said softly next to her ear.


    "Why don''t you go back to your room now?" Adam said retreating back, moving his hands away. This was all she needed to grab her bags and ran into the room without even turning once, closing the door as soon as she stepped in.


    Adam let out a hearty laugh that echoed through the quiet hallway. "I will make you mine you little elf. I am so not letting you go anywhere. You just wait and watch." He headed to his own room, looking at the closed door one more time with a grin on his face.


    ------------------------------


    *Inside the guest room*


    Stella was still in shock as to what had happened outside a few minutes ago. Never in her mind had it occurred for even once that someone would ever say such words to her. She just couldn''t bring herself to say no to him.


    Unpacking her clothes and putting them inside the walk-in closet, her mind was lost somewhere else. ''How could someone say things like that to someone they have known just for a week or so.'' She was in a dilemma. Such feelings were alien to her. She had never felt anything like what he had said for anyone so far. But she remembered her heart beating erratically when he had come close to her, she had never experienced it before. People of the opposite gender had tried to come close to her many times before but it had only made her nauseous. Specially what her ex-boss tried to do with her, she was worried that Adam might do the same thing but he had respected her boundaries.


    When she was done unpacking her clothes, she sprawled on the bed, looking up at the ceiling. Her mind drifted to the times she had had with him till now. He was always there to help her out whenever she needed one, without asking anything in return. He was there when she needed a shoulder to cry on. He trusted her blindly and didn''t ask for any explanation. He provided her a place to live in. He had done all of those, without asking her to repay him back.


    Heaving out a long sigh, she closed her eyes. As soon as she did, a handsome face appeared, his deep gray eyes looking at her intently, a faint smile on his face. A soft smile blooming over her face.


    "If he''s asking me for a chance, then I will give him one, but just this once. I will let him do what he wants to, as long as he does not break my trust." She murmured under her breath and soon she drifted off to her dreamland.

 Chapter 36 - I Give You My Word

    The day went by and Stella didn''t get to see Adam, not even at lunch and dinner. She wanted to ask the old butler but thought that it would be a bit awkward after what he had witnessed earlier in the day.


    As if sensing her hesitation while having her dinner, the old butler politely said, "He had some work to do during lunch, so he had it in his room. As for now, he sends his apologies to you, he asked me to inform you that he had a video conference to attend with some overseas company."


    "Oh! Thank you." She replied giving him a polite smile. After getting done with her dinner, she headed upstairs to her room. She wanted to talk to him but decided to do it later thinking that he might still be busy with the meeting.


    She headed directly to the bathroom to freshen up. After taking a quick shower, she dressed up in a turquoise crop top that had beast written on it in purple. She paired it with black denim shorts. She towel dried her waist long hairs a bit, leaving them open.


    Looking at herself in the mirror one more time she headed out of the room after wearing her slippers. She knocked lightly on the dark wood door that was opposite to hers. After getting no response, she knocked once again, tapping her feet on the floor with nervousness. Still not getting any response, she turned around to head back but the door opened.


    "Come in." She heard him say in his usual deep voice.


    Stepping in Stella shifted her eyes to look at the person she had come to talk to, but her throat ran dry after seeing what was before her.


    Adam was only wearing a black loose fitting trousers, his upper half naked as he was busy drying his hairs with a small towel. Droplets of water ran down his taut muscles, glistening under the faint light of his room. She couldn''t help but gawk at him. He looked no less than those high paid models you see in those famous fashion magazines and shows.


    As if sensing a pair of eyes at him, he looked up only to see the girl who has been messing with his mind these days, staring at him.


    "Like what you are seeing?" He said, amused by her expressions. "Or may I say, gawking?"


    His voice brought her out of her trance. Her face becoming red, she turned around as to avoid looking at him.


    "Isn''t it too late to turn around?" He teased her.


    "I-I-I didn''t know that¡­.." Stella tried to reply him but couldn''t find the words. "I wanted to have a chat with you." She finally told him the reason she came for after two whole minutes.


    "I thought it must be Uncle Rob at this hour. Give me a minute, I will wear a shirt." He said, deciding not to put her in a difficult position for now.


    "I am done." She heard him say. It was only then that she turned around, her face still a lighter shade of red.


    "I wanted to talk to you. Do have some free time?" She asked, not looking directly at him.


    "Yeah sure! Let''s head upstairs." He said, giving her a nod which he doubted she even saw.


    "Upstairs?" She asked in confusion.


    "Yeah! It''s my favorite spot in the place." He said, giving her a lopsided smile.


    Stella nodded in reply and they headed upstairs with Adam leading the way. Once they were on the rooftop, Stella was completely awestruck at the sight before her.


    "Do you like it?" He asked her, looking at her bewildered expressions.


    "I-I-I¡­ It''s beautiful." She said taking in her surroundings.


    "Yes, it is." Adam said while his eyes were at her. "It''s beautiful."


    Stella nodded at his answer.


    "Come, I will show you something better." Adam said taking her hand and dragging her to the back of the garden.


    Stella looked down from the railings covered by creepers. Her eyes widen looking at the back of the house. There was a small lake, surrounded by tall trees. The moon shining over the view, brightening the midnight sky as well the water of the lake, making the ripples glitter under its reflection.


    While Stella was busy being mesmerized by the view, Adam was looking at her with all of his attention.


    "It''s beautiful." Stella finally spoke up after several minutes.


    "You wanted to talk about something." Adam spoke up.


    "Oh! Yeah." Stella turned to look at him, leaning against the railing.


    "I am all ears." He gave her a bright smile. Under the dark sky, his features looked more sharpened, giving him a devilish look.


    Stella pursed her lips, thinking about how to voice out her thoughts. " I thought about what you said earlier today." She spoke up after a while. "I will give you a chance. But you cannot break my trust, not even once." She said looking up at him.


    Adam was utterly shocked by her statement. He looked at her with his eyes widened, popping out of their sockets. "Wh-What did you say?" Adam stammered asking her.


    Stella repeated her statement once again, this time a bit slower. As soon as she finished speaking, Adam took her into his arms. He hugged her tightly, holding her close to him. "Thank you! Thank you so much Stella. You don''t have any idea how much it means to me. And I will never break your trust, not even if it costs me my life. I give you my word."


    Stella stood there quietly as Adam hugged her as if his life depended on it.

 Chapter 37 - Meeting Room

    Stella stood there quietly as Adam hugged her as if his life depended on it.


    Her body couldn''t help but tremble in his embrace.  She tried to get out of it, but he was holding her too tight. She squirmed in between his arms trying to escape his hold, but it only made him tighten his arms around her waist.


    "Adam, I can''t breathe." Stella said with her muffled voice.


    Hearing her, Adam drew back his hands with obvious reluctance. "I am sorry."


    "It''s alright!" Stella''s eyes darted everywhere except for the man in front. "Its already late, I should head back to my room now."


    Adam nodded his head in response. "I will see you tomorrow then." He bid goodnight to her retreating figure. He couldn''t help but gaze at the dark blue night sky, a number of stars twinkling in the vast space. "What are you doing to me little elf?" He couldn''t comprehend his own feelings. His heart beat like crazy whenever she was close to her. There was a warm feeling that spread throughout his body whenever he saw her smiling.


    She was a mystery to him and he wanted to solve this little mystery. He couldn''t assimilate how could a girl affect him so much. He looked at the night sky one more time before returning back to his room.


    The next day, they headed to the office together after having breakfast. Once in the company, they treated each other just like before. Well, not when they were alone in Adam''s office. He would tease her every time she came in his office for handing over some files or paperwork.


    "Thank you so much beasty." He gave her a sweet smile when she brought him his coffee only to get a glare from him. He has been calling her beasty since morning.


    "Why are you calling me that?" Stella asked, narrowing her eyes at him.


    "Your crop top last night, it had beast written on it. And it suits you as well." He gave her a wide grin, making Stella roll back her eyes.


    The next two days passed by with them following their usual routine. They would go to the office together and return in the evening. Adam and Stella grew a bit closer, at least Stella didn''t feel uncomfortable in his company anymore. Soon it was Friday, the day Stella had to give him a compiled report regarding all the potential investors for the Golding Housing Project.


    Adam called for a meeting of the heads of all departments and asked Stella to give a brief description of the figures, to which she obliged. After getting done with the discussion, Adam asked the new Vice President, Robert Trent, to look over the project and get in contact with the investors. His Uncle Liam had sent him over from one of his overseas branches. He was one of his trusted men.


    After saying everything that was required to, Adam dismissed everyone. The meeting room was eerily quiet now, with Stella picking up all her paperwork and Adam staring at her. He stood up from his chair and walked towards her taking huge strides. He draped his hand over her shoulder, pulling her close to him.


    "You did a great job beasty." He said giving the top of her head a light kiss, making Stella blush.


    "We are still in the office Adam." She said pushing his hand away.


    "But it''s only us here, and this room is soundproof." He stated as a matter of fact.


    "Yes, but I still have some work to do." She said making a run for the door. But to her misfortune, Adam caught her hand pulling her back into his arms. He picked her up, making her sit on the meeting room''s table.


    "Where do you think you are going?" He said, placing both his hand on either side and entrapping her in between them.


    Because of their close proximity, Stella''s heart was a mess right now. She couldn''t think straight.


    Adam tilted her chin up using his finger and leaned his face in. "God knows how bad I want to kiss you right now." He breathed just before her lips making her eyes widen.


    "May I?" He asked for her permission. Stella wanted to say no to him, but his hot breaths striking against her lips made her speechless. The words stopped right at the tip of her tongue. She couldn''t bring them out no matter how hard she tried. She looked into his eyes which were brimming with desire, burning her soul.


    Not getting a reply from her, Adam was getting impatient. "Stop me whenever you want to." Saying these words, he smacked his lips against hers, stealing her breath away.


    His kiss that started as a soft and slow one, was now getting rougher, wanting more of her. He pried her soft lips open with his tongue. His tongue dove into her mouth, making her close her eyes.


    A strange feeling was spreading through her body, which was new to her. As Adam explored her mouth with his hot tongue, her hands found their way around his neck, holding onto it for some support.


    As Adam felt her arms around his neck, his hands moved from the table to her tiny waist and wrapped around it, bringing her body close to his.


    He continued sucking onto her lips while his tongue explored every corner of her mouth, stealing her breath away.

 Chapter 38 - Keep Your Hands Off Her

    He continued sucking onto her lips while his tongue explored every corner of her mouth, stealing her breath away.


    Stella was getting dizzier with every second that was passing by. She couldn''t hold her breath in anymore and tapped Adam on his shoulder. Getting the signal, Adam reluctantly let go of her lips, grazing her lower lip with his teeth one last time. Taking deep breaths, he rested his forehead on hers, his eyes closed as he tried to control his desire to have more of her.


    Stella could still feel his arms wrapped around her while trying to calm down her erratic heart.


    "What are you doing to me?" She heard him asking her.


    Adam looked down at her as she opened her eyes to look at him. He was utterly mesmerized by how she looked right now in his arms. Her tiny face was completely flushed, her hazel eyes looked a bit glassy now due to the tears she had in them, those luscious pink lips were slightly swollen because of his torture. She was a sight to behold.


    He placed a hand on her flushed cheek, caressing it with tenderness while the other was still wrapped around her lean waist.


    "Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?" He said breaking the silence that was engulfing the meeting room, making her blush.


    "I should get going now." She spoke meekly.


    Adam only replied with a nod stepping to the side. He helped her get down and made her sit on a chair. "I am going to go now but you won''t leave for the next ten minutes." He said in a firm voice. "I don''t want anyone to see you, when you look this much appealing."


    He passed her a water bottle after uncapping it. He headed out after giving her one last look. It wasn''t a good idea to stay alone with her in the meeting room, he had no choice but to leave first.


    He drowned himself in paperwork and emails and the day went by. Later in the evening, he headed out of his office after grabbing his phone and car keys. When he was on his way to her office, he heard someone arguing, he turned in the direction where the voices were coming from. He was curious as to who might be the owner. Nobody was supposed to be in the entire building at this hour besides security.


    In the secretariat cubicles, a man of average height, dressed in a light brown business suit was arguing with someone. His line of sight shifted towards the other person, making his blood boil in anger. He was arguing with his little elf.


    ''Who the hell does he think he is to shout at my little elf and that too in my own office?'' Adam thought.


    Their voices becoming clearer as he walked towards them.


    "I like you Stella. Why can''t you just say yes to me?" He heard the guy speaking. "Say yes to me. Just say yes to be my girlfriend and I will lay the whole world at your feet."


    Adam clenched his jaws in anger hearing his words, veins popping out on his forehead.


    "You should leave right now. And my answer is still no." Stella replied with her brows furrowed. She has had enough of this man, he has been pestering him for the last fifteen minutes. She turned around to leave but he caught hold of her arm.


    "I am not going to let you go unless you say yes to me." He held her arm, dragging her back roughly.


    "Keep your hands off me." Stella shouted at him, trying to wriggle free from his grip.


    "Didn''t you heard the lady? Keep your hands off her." A voice boomed throughout the floor before the man could say anything further.


    Adam walked towards the duo taking long strides. He grabbed the man''s arm, squeezed it hard, making him leave Stella''s.


    Once her hand was free she walked around to stand behind Adam.


    "Sir, I apologise but this is a matter between me and my girlfriend, so you shouldn''t interrupt." The man said looking at the ground.


    "Oh? Really! Your girlfriend? The last time I checked, she was mine." Adam said squeezing his arm further.


    The man''s face became pale hearing what his Boss has said. "S-S-Ssir¡­"


    "Get out of my sight, right now." Adam scowled. "And also you are fired." He gritted his teeth.


    The man wanted to retaliate but he knew he couldn''t mess with the Adam Levinson. And if what he had said was true, then he had no chance with the girl here. He left with his tail tucked in between his legs without saying a word.


    Adam turned around once that imbecile had left his sight. "Are you alright?" He asked her, his voice soft and warm, devoid of the frostiness it had a while ago. "You aren''t hurt anywhere, right?" His voice was laced with worry.


    Stella looked up at him nodded. Looking at his worried expressions, she gave him a soft smile. "I am completely okay. Shall we go home now?"


    He looked at the bag in her hands that had escaped his eyes earlier and nodded, tucking a loose lock which had somehow managed to escape her bun, behind her ear. He gave her soft peck on her forehead. Heading to the elevator his one hand rested on her lower back, while the other was tucked inside his dress pants pocket.

 Chapter 39 - A Visitor

    Next morning, Adam woke up early even though it was a Saturday. He usually slept till late during the weekends, but he couldn''t sleep properly last night because a certain someone kept popping up in his dreams.


    The kiss he had shared with Stella yesterday kept coming to his mind. He remembered the scene vividly. The way her body felt in between his arms, her lean figure around which he could easily wrap his arms, the way her lashes flutter when he was kissing her, the way her slender arms held onto his neck, and last but not the least, those delectable lips of hers and how sweet she tasted.


    He remembered each and every detail of their private moment. He wanted to taste her lips one more time. He couldn''t have enough of those delicacies.


    "I am going crazy." He thought out loud, knocking on his own forehead.


    Heaving out a long, frustrated sigh, he got up from his bed and changed into some sportswear. He spent the next two hours in his personal gym. When he was thoroughly knackered, he left for his room, thinking that it was enough for the day.


    He changed into some casual clothes after freshening up. He went downstairs to have his breakfast.


    "Is she up?" He asked the old butler who was serving him his breakfast.


    "Yes, Young Master." He replied.


    "Did she have her breakfast?" Adam asked picking up a fork.


    "No, I asked her if she would like to have her breakfast upstairs but she declined saying that she will be downstairs in a bit." The old butler replied.


    Adam nodded in response as he brought the fork having a piece of omelette close to his mouth, but his hand stopped midair just before his slightly opened mouth as he heard someone coming in.


    "Good morning guys!" She greeted the two men with a bright smile while taking a seat opposite to Adam.


    "It sure is." Adam replied, his eyes following each movement of hers.


    "Good morning, Miss." The old butler greeted the young lady only to get a pout from her.


    "Please, just call me Stella." She reprimanded him to get a nod from him in reply.


    ---------------------------


    Later in the evening, both of them were in Adam''s study. Adam was busy going through the emails, sitting before his study desk while Stella was occupying his favorite spot. She was sitting in the single sofa chair that was by the French windows that looked above the garden. Her side leaning against its back whilst her legs were dangling over the armrest. She was reading a novel, completely immersed into it, unaware of the fact that a certain someone was gawking at her.


    She was wearing a light pink loose sweatshirt with one of her denim shorts, leaving her slender fair legs exposed.


    Adam was being distracted again and again as his eyes kept darting to her legs. ''Oh how much I wish I could run my fingers on those beauties.''


    He even had to retype some email replies because of the rubbish he had written.


    A knock on the door brought him out of his thoughts.


    "Did you miss me?" A cheery voice came along with its owner who was clad in black clothes.


    "As if I would." Adam scoffed.


    "Ouch!" The guy replied, dramatically clutching his chest. "And who might this beautiful lady be?" He asked noticing Stella sitting by the windows.


    "She is Stella. Stella Martin." Adam introduced her. "Stella, meet my best friend, Blake Collins." He continued.


    "Oh! So you are Stella. I have heard so much about you." He said to her, giving her a polite smile.


    Stella nodded while standing two steps away from Adam. "It''s good to meet you Mr. Blake." She replied.


    "The pleasure is all mine young lady." Blake said with a wink, making Adam roll his eyes. "May I say how beautiful you are." He continued.


    "Don''t flirt with my girl." Adam gave him a warning, throwing daggers at him with his eyes.


    "I wouldn''t dare to." Blake replied, raising his hands up in the air. "But you guys sure look good together." He continued, raising his eyebrows up.


    "Stop teasing her, will you?" Adam pulled Stella close to him, who was now blushing at Blake''s earlier statement.


    "So, there''s been some progress, eh?" Blake''s eyes widened seeing Adam wrapping his arm around her waist.


    "It''s none of your business. Now, tell me. What exactly brought you here?" Adam asked him.


    "I need to talk to you about something." He said looking at Stella.


    "Stella, why don''t you go and ask Uncle Rob to prepare some coffee for us along with some snacks?" Adam asked her, taking Blake''s hint.


    "Sure." Stella nodded.


    "We will be down there in a few minutes." He said placing a kiss on the top of her head.


    "So what is it?" Adam asked him once Stella was out.


    "Remember you asked me to look into something." Blake said, his face devoid of the playfulness it had earlier.

 Chapter 40 - In A Relationship?

    "Yeah! Of course I do." Adam replied, sitting on the couch. "I was wondering if you were losing your touch. You have never taken this long before."


    "Hey man! It''s not that I am losing my touch, it''s about what you asked me to look into." Blake replied while taking a seat next to him.


    "Just get to the point." Adam scoffed.


    "I asked my best men to look into the situation but even they weren''t able to find anything initially. The CCTV cameras in and around her building weren''t working. Not even one." Blake stated. "After digging for a whole day, they were finally able to get their hands on the man who actually wrecked your sweetheart''s apartment."


    "Continue." Adam asked him, his voice cold.


    "So they dragged him back to the base. But no matter how hard they tried, he didn''t spill out any beans except for saying that he needed the money and didn''t know who the person was." Blake explained to him.


    "You mean he was just a pawn." Adam exclaimed.


    "You can say that. In fact, I wouldn''t even consider him a pawn. He was just used by the person who is actually behind this. They used the oldest method in the book, used cash to pay him. He was given fifty percent of the total payment in advance and the remaining half was paid after he completed the given task. The guy who handed him over the money, wore a mask, so he couldn''t tell us how he looked liked. As for the number that was used for contacting him, we tried to trace it but it hit a dead end. It was registered under someone who''s been dead for the last ten years." Blake told him the details.


    "I don''t think so that the man who handed over the money is the person who''s actually behind this." Adam spoke up after a minute or so. His brows were furrowed as he was thinking about it.


    "I thought the same thing too." Blake said leaning against the back of the couch. "And I did a thorough check on that sleazeball, I am sure he doesn''t have any link to this thing."


    Adam hummed in response. "Dig deeper into it, no matter how much time it takes, and deal with it yourself. I am sure whoever the person behind this is, he or she has some connection with Stella. Look into her personal and professional lives." Though he did not want to look into her life without her knowing, he didn''t have a choice here.


    Blake replied to him with an okay sign.


    "Let''s go downstairs, she must be waiting." Adam broke up the silence after two minutes or so.


    "Someone''s worried about his beloved darling sitting alone." Blake teased him only to get slap on his forehead in return.


    Heading downstairs they saw her sitting in the living room, actually she was almost lying down on the couch, munching on fruits and bobbing her head up along with music that was playing on her phone.


    "Someone''s sure enjoying her free time." Adam brought her back to the present.


    "I was getting bored, sitting here all alone by myself." She replied with a pout, turning off the music.


    "I apologise that I took a long time to finish our conversation." Adam gave her a faint smile.


    "It''s alright. It must be important." She gave him a sweet smile.


    "Wow! Look at me, standing here, all forgotten." Blake interrupted in between, earning a glare from Adam.


    "Have a seat please." Stella asked him politely.


    Just as they were settling in the old butler came with two maids in tow, carrying their coffee and snacks.


    The atmosphere became a bit lively with Blake asking Stella about her work and her likes and dislikes.


    "By the way, I noticed you were reading a novel earlier. What kind of novels do you like?" Blake asked her.


    "Love stories." Stella answered him.


    "Uh huh? May be your life will turn out to be one as well." Blake said giving a side glance towards Adam who was sitting next to him.


    His actions made Stella choke on her coffee.


    "Tease her one more time and I will kick you out of this place." Adam warned him, making his across the table to sit next to her. He rubbed her back slowly, "Are you alright? Should I pour you some water." He asked her worriedly looking at her teary eyes.


    "No, thank you. I am alright." Stella replied to him.


    "You sure?" He asked her again to get a firm nod from her. "Yeah."


    "So, you guys are in a relationship now?" Blake interrupted them.


    "Yes."


    "No."


    Both of them replied simultaneously, their voices overlapping.


    Adam and Stella turned to look at each other, while Blake was having a hard time controlling his laughter. She was probably the only one who would do this to his best friend. Any other girl would have lunged at the given opportunity. ''No wonder he likes her.'' He thought to himself while looking at the duo before him looking at each other.


    "Oh my! Look at the time. I just remembered that I have to be somewhere else." He looked at his watch and exclaimed dramatically. "It was good meeting you Stella. I hope we meet again." He said looking at the girl only to get a weak smile in return.


    Bidding the duo goodbye, he left hurriedly. He knew that if he had stayed any longer, his corpse would have been sent out, not him.


    As he ran out hurriedly for the sake of his life, the two people kept looking at each other not paying any heed to him.

 Chapter 41 - Dorky Adam

    Even after Blake had left, Adam continued staring at Stella with his eyes narrowed while she tried to avoid his gaze. Adam was enraged hearing her say no to Blake''s question.


    ''Aren''t we in a relationship?'' He thought looking at the little lady before him who was trying to look everywhere but at him.


    "So we aren''t in a relationship?" He asked her, but got no response from her.


    He pinched her chin lightly, turning her face towards him. "I don''t like it when people don''t answer me. So, either you do it yourself, or¡­ I will make you." He said giving her a devilish smile, moving his body closer to hers.


    "I-I¡­" Stella tried but couldn''t speak up. Their close proximity was messing with her mind once again, reminding her of their kiss, how Adam had sucked on her lips and how his tongue had explored her mouth.


    "What did you mean by giving me a chance then?" He asked her, his breath brushing against her fair cheeks, clouding her mind.


    Still not getting a response from the little elf, Adam gave her a mischievous grin. "Looks like you could use a little help sweetheart." Saying that he crashed his lips against hers.


    The sudden force made Stella topple down on the sofa who was now lying down with Adam''s figure hovering above hers, their lips still locked.


    Adam supported his weight on one of his elbows as not to crush the little lady, while his other hand slid down to her neck, his thumb stroking her cheek.


    He sucked on to her luscious lips as if his lips depended on it. His sleek tongue made its way through her lips, exploring her mouth. He wanted to have more of her, she was like finely matured wine to him, one he could not have enough of.


    His hand slid down from her neck, coming down, and rested on her lean waist. He broke the kiss, his lips making their way to her slender neck, prepping kisses on the way.


    Stella let out a muffled moan when his lips touched the point where her neck and shoulder met. Realizing that it was her soft spot, Adam smirked. He sucked the spot for a while, making her moan in pleasure.


    His hand moved from her waist, going inside her lose sweatshirt, touching and caressing her bare skin now. Stella held onto his broad shoulders as his touch sent sparks through her body.


    Adam grazed her soft spot by his teeth, licking it after and then sucking upon it again while his hand caressed her waist. Stella was a breathless mess now under him, moaning in pleasure that he was giving her.


    Adam wanted so much more right now, but he knew better not to scare the poor girl. He stopped after a long while, taking deep breaths to control the burning desire that was spreading through him to have the girl then and there.


    After calming down himself, he looked at the teary eyed girl under him who was breathing heavily. He gave her a peck on her lips, taking out his hand.


    He put his body weight on both of his elbows while his hands played with her hairs that had escaped her messy bun.


    "So, what were we talking about?" He asked her, giving her a lopsided smile.


    Stella blushed harder at his question. She didn''t know what to reply. Though she had said that she would give him a chance but that doesn''t mean that they were in a relationship. ''Isn''t he supposed to ask me to be his girlfriend?'' She thought to herself.


    "Sweetheart? What are you thinking about?" Adam brought her back to the present.


    "You haven''t answered my question." He reminded her, running his thumb over her swollen lips which had a tinge of red to them.


    "It''s not like that you have asked me about it." Stella replied meekly, her fingers toying with his collar button that was not done.


    "About what?" Adam was confused by her statement.


    "About what you asked me earlier." She murmured under her breath still concentrating on his collar button as if it was the most interesting thing in the world.


    As realization dawned on Adam, his eyebrows shot up. ''Crap.'' He scolded himself inwardly for not using his brain for once. ''How can they be in a relationship when he hadn''t even proposed to the girl?''


    "I am sorry." He murmured his apology.


    "What are you saying sorry for?" Stella asked him in confusion.


    "Nothing." He said with a faint smile. "Let''s go back to the study." He added, kissing her forehead softly.


    "You go ahead I will be there in a few minutes." She replied to get a nod from him.


    ----------------------


    Sitting in his chair before the study desk, his mind drifted off to what Stella had said. ''I need to make it up to her.'' He was for once thankful to that idiot''s blabbering mouth. If it wasn''t for him, he wouldn''t have realized his mistake.


    It wasn''t his fault that his mind couldn''t work properly whenever she was around. He always forgot to use his brain and acted dorky whenever it came to her.


    Thinking about how he should rectify the situation, he picked up his phone that was lying on the table and made a bunch of calls.

 Chapter 42 - Wheres Adam?

    Next morning, Stella woke up around 9 a.m. After freshening up, she went downstairs to have breakfast dressed up in her usual casual attire.


    At the dining table, she was the only one having her breakfast. She looked around but couldn''t find Adam. ''He usually wakes up before me.'' She thought, her eyes drifting towards the door of the dining room again and again as she ate her food.


    She was done with her breakfast and even then there was no sign of Adam. ''Where is he?'' She couldn''t help but think about his whereabouts. Unknowingly, she had grown used to his company.


    When she saw the old butler on her way out, she decided to ask him about Adam''s whereabouts.


    "Uncle Rob!" She called him. "Where''s Adam? I haven''t seen him since morning. Is he still sleeping?" She asked the old butler.


    "He had some errands to run, so he went out to deal with them." The old butler replied to her politely even though he didn''t know the details himself. He was just complying to his Young Master''s order to tell the girl that he was busy if she asks him about him.


    "Oh! Okay, thank you Uncle Rob." She headed up to her room after thanking the old butler.


    The day went by and she didn''t get to see Adam for even once. She tried busying herself all this while but her thoughts keep drifting to Adam, and somehow to his kisses. They had kissed twice in the last two days, and they weren''t your usual a peck on the lips kind of kisses. She still remembered how she had felt then. It was as if her soul was being sucked from her body.


    But her anger surfaced up after remembering his question about them being in a relationship or not. ''How could he ask me such a thing? Doesn''t he know how to propose a girl? I am not asking for flowers and all, but couldn''t he just ask me genuinely?'' She was enraged.


    "I cannot believe that the Adam Levinson, who has such a high IQ, has an EQ this low." She thought out loud. "Idiot." She muttered under her breath, going back to read her novel.


    She was in the study, sitting in her favorite spot by those huge glass windows that looked over a garden. She had to admit that the guy sure had some good taste when it comes to aesthetics.


    She was in her room, and was getting bored to death. It was almost 7 p.m. and she still hasn''t seen or heard from the man himself or from Uncle Rob. She had asked the old butler once again only to get the same reply. ''Looks like even he doesn''t know where Adam is.''


    She picked up her phone, going through the contact list to look for his number. She contemplated for a while whether to call him herself or not. ''He could have told me before going or left a message at least. It''s not like he doesn''t have my phone number.''


    Just as she was about to hit the call button, she heard someone knocking on her room''s door. She quickly jumped from the bed, thinking that it must be Adam.


    She glanced at her reflection in the dressing table''s mirror once, fixing her clothes and hairs a bit, and made a dash towards the door. "Coming." She spoke up. ''You dare to disappear for an entire day without even informing the girl you claim to like so much, and now, here you are, knocking at her door.'' She cursed the poor guy inwardly on her way to the door.


    As she opened the door and was about to scold the man, her words got stuck in her throat, for it was not Adam but the old butler standing before her opened door.


    "Good evening." Uncle Rob politely greeted her only to get a nod from her. "These are for you." He said extending his hands towards her that were holding a bunch of shopping bags.


    "Umm.. who are these from." She asked him, taking the bags from his hands cautiously and placing them down as if they had some kind of explosives in them.


    "And this as well." The old butler said, pushing a clothing rack in her room that was next to him and had a while cloth draped over it.


    Before she could ask him anything, the old butler had already left. She stood there with a baffled expression for ad to what had happened just now. After regaining her composure, she closed the door to look at the stuff that was sort of left at her doorstep.


    She headed toward the rack and noticed that it had a card attached to the white cloth. She pulled it out to observe that it had something written over it. She could recognize the handwriting even in her sleep now, for she has been seeing it daily for the last few days.


    ''Dress up! There''s a driver waiting for you downstairs. You have an hour.''

 Chapter 43 - You Look Stunningly Beautiful

    ''Dress up! There''s a driver waiting for you downstairs. You have an hour.''


    Looking at the handwritten note, Stella was at a loss. "What is he up to now?" She thought out loud.


    Taking off the white cloth that was covering the clothing rack, her eyes landed on a black dress that was hung down.


    Her eyes widening in the process as she traced her fingers over it. Never had in her life, she has seen such a beautiful dress up this close.


    ''This must be very pricey.'' She thought, looking for a price tag but couldn''t find one. Picking up the bags, she placed them on the bed to have a look at their contents, only to find matching accessories to go with the dress including a pair of matching stilettos.


    She looked up at the wall clock, heaving out a long sigh, she headed to the bathroom, she took a quick body shower as she didn''t want to wet her hairs.


    After forty minutes or so, she was almost ready. She looked at her own reflection and was dumbfounded. She couldn''t believe that the girl looking back at her was her own self. Grabbing the clutch that accompanied the dress, she went a beeline for downstairs. Just as the note had said, a driver was waiting for her in a black Maybach. She sat in the back, replying politely to the driver''s greeting.


    Half an hour later, the car pulled up before a quiet a place that was engulfed in darkness. Stepping out of the car, she looked around but couldn''t see a thing out here.


    Just as she was about to call Adam, a number of fairy lights lit up, lighting up her surroundings. She looked around, her eyes landing on the man she has been looking for the entire day.


    He stood at a distance of a few steps from her, dressed up in a midnight blue tailored suit. His hands were shoved in his dress pants'' pockets, his head tilted slightly to his right as he stood there lazily looking at her.


    Adam couldn''t help but admire as he looked at her. The black silk dress, supported by two thin straps going over her shoulders, looked beautiful on her. It had a v-cut in the front, showing a bit of her cleavage but not too much. There was a long slit on the right that started from her upper thigh, exposing a fair skinned, slender leg along with the foot that was supporting a pair of black stilettos, strapped around her ankle. He noticed that she had done a minimalistic makeup but chose a dark maroon lip shade. Her hairs were let down, parted from the side. She had pinned the smaller section up, showing her ear that had a long golden feather like earring dangling down.


    Taking huge strides towards her, covering the distance, he stopped right before her.


    Picking up her hand that was resting by her side, he kissed the back of it. "You look stunningly beautiful." He said, making her blush in response.


    "Let''s go." He said following the cobbled stone path, taking her along. His hand now rest at her  lower back that was exposed because of the backless dress.


    As they turned around a corner, Stella could feel her breathing stop for a moment. She was completely awestruck by the scene before her.


    There was a canopy like hut a few steps away from them, decorated with white lilies and more fairy lights. Under it, a dining table for two people was set with a bunch of red roses placed in a crystal vase in the center.


    "It''s beautiful." Stella spoke up after a while.


    "I''m glad you like it." Adam replied, kissing the side of her head softly.


    "Dinner will be served in a while." He said guiding her towards a chair. He pulled it out for her like a true gentleman, and after making sure that she was settled in comfortably, he made his way around the table, settling down opposite to her.


    "You were busy the entire day for this?" Stella couldn''t help but ask him. "We could''ve had dinner on the rooftop if you wanted to eat out in the open."


    Adam nodded in response, "I wanted to make sure that everything will be perfect. And no, I wanted to make it special for you."


    Listening to his reply, a sudden warmth spread through her. "Thank you. I love it." She said giving him her most honest smile.


    "I am honored then." Adam winked at her, making her look down at her knotted fingers, resting on the table.


    "Relax Stella, I won''t eat you up. At least, not for now." He said looking at her, his eyes burning with desire. He was having second thoughts about his choice. He shouldn''t have selected this dress for her, he was going crazy by just looking at her. ''Thank God, she didn''t tie her hairs up or else I would have dragged her to somewhere private right now.''


    "For now, let''s just do with the food." He added with a mischievous smile.

 Chapter 44 - Are You Willing.....

    "For now, let''s just do with the food." He added with a mischievous smile.


    Stella''s face was flushed after listening to his remark. Though she has never been with a guy before, she wasn''t dumb enough not to get the underlying meaning of his statement.


    Soon dinner was served along with a fancy wine by a waiter. Adam cut his steak into bite size pieces and exchanged his plate with hers. Stella was touched by his actions. Though he was not a man of many words, but his actions always showed that he cared for her.


    Stella quietly ate her food after murmuring her thanks to him. Once they were done with their main course, two waiters came and cleared the table. "Dessert will be served shortly." One of them spoke before leaving the two alone.


    Adam stood up from his chair and made his way around the table, standing next to her.


    "May I have a dance with this beautiful lady?" He asked, extending his hands towards her, and right on cue, music started playing in the background.


    Stella placed her hand in his extended one a bit timidly. She was never good at dancing, not even at those recitals when she was a kid.


    "What is it sweetheart?" Adam asked her, seeing her nervousness.


    "I am not good at dancing. I don''t even know how to do it." She replied, biting down on her lower lip.


    "It''s alright, just follow my lead. You will get the hang of it." Adam tried to calm her nerves down, his one hand firmly holding hers while the other traced around her bare waist.


    They started moving their bodies slowly to the music with Adam guiding her, and Stella following his lead.


    Their bodies swayed together as Ed Sheeran''s ''Perfect'' playing around.


    "I found a love for me


    Darling just dive right in


    And follow my lead


    Well I found a girl beautiful and sweet


    I never knew you were the someone waiting for


    me"


    Adam was gazing at the girl in between his arms as they slowly moved to the song. Just as the last stanza of the song approached, Adam tightened his hold around her, bringing her closer to him, their bodies touching each other. His hand caressed her bare back slowly as he sang along the last lines.


    "Baby, I''m dancing in the dark, with you between my arms


    Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song


    I have faith in what I see


    Now I know I have met an angel in person


    And she looks perfect


    I don''t deserve this


    You look perfect tonight"


    He brought her lips closer to her forehead, leaving a lingering kiss there as he sang along the last line.


    "You look perfect tonight." He murmured once again looking at her pretty little face that was merely inches away from his own.


    As soon as the song was over, Adam loosened his grip around her. Stepping back a bit he went down on his left knee, making Stella''s eyes widen in surprise.


    From the inside pocket of his coat, he fished out a ring. Holding it firmly in between his fingers, he extended it towards her.


    "I know I have been doing a few things wrongly and I want to rectify those now." He spoke up, looking into her hazel eyes which somehow had brightened up his life.


    "I won''t be repeating what I had told you already. I just want to say that I want to be a part of your everyday life just like I want you to be a part of mine. I want to make you smile more often. I like seeing that smile on your face, it brightens up my day." He continued.


    "I can''t promise you that it will always be a happy ride or a walk in the park, but I promise to give you my all." He looked at the girl who was looking at him with her teary eyes.


    "So, Stella Martin. Are you willing to be my girlfriend?" He gave her a bright smile.


    Stella was rooted to the ground, still under shock. She had thought that it was just a fancy dinner. Never in her mind it occurred for even once that the man claiming that they were in a relationship would propose to her. And that too this beautifully.


    She nodded her head slightly, making Adam stand up on his feet again. He wrapped his arms around her once again, bringing her close to him.


    "Sweetheart, can you please use words?" He asked her softly.


    "Yes!" Stella replied, nodding her head once again.


    This was all that Adam needed from her to crash his lips against hers. After kissing her for a while and sucking on her lips, he finally let the poor girl breathe.


    Taking her left hand in his own, he slid the ring onto her ring finger. Bringing her hand close to his lips he placed a lingering kiss on the ring.


    "You have made me the happiest man alive right now sweetheart." Adam said, kissing her hand once again.

 Chapter 45 - I Missed You So Much

    "You have made me the happiest man alive right now sweetheart." Adam said, kissing her hand once again.


    Adam brought her back to the table. After making her sit down, he went around the table, settling down in his own chair.


    Soon a waiter came to serve them their desserts. A crystal cup was placed before Stella, her eyes widened looking at the pineapple flavoured ice cream rolls placed in it. They were garnished with chopped pineapple chunks.


    "How do you know about my favorite ice cream flavor?" She looked at Adam with her baffled expression.


    "Just like I know about your ring size." He replied with a smug look on his face as he took a bite from his dark chocolate flavored ice cream rolls.


    "And how do you know about that?" Stella asked him. ''No wonder the ring fit perfectly.'' She thought.


    "I have my ways." Adam gave her charming smile only to get an eye roll from her.


    They ate the rest of their desserts in silence. Once they were done, they headed back outside but as soon as they were out of the canopy like hut, Adam stopped in his tracks.


    "Wait for a moment." He turned around and headed back as Stella waited for him, standing in the same spot.


    Out of nowhere, a long stemmed red rose appeared before her eyes. "I forgot this." A deep cello voice reverberated next to her ear as an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her against a sturdy chest.


    She turned her face towards her shoulder as she felt it weighing down only to find Adam resting his face on it.


    "This one''s for the beautiful lady here." He spoke up again, pressing a kiss on her bare shoulder.


    "Thank you." She accepted the rose after thanking him.


    "Let''s go." He spoke up, guiding her out, his hand placed at her lower back, his thumb caressing her exposed skin every now and then.


    At the entrance, instead of the Maybach that she arrived in, a black Maserati was parked.


    Adam opened the passenger door for her,he helped her settle in, making sure she wouldn''t bump her head. He helped her put on the seatbelt and then made his way to the driver seat.


    -----------------------


    Stella opened the door of her room while Adam stood beside her.


    "Thank you so much for today." She thanked him once again.


    Adam gave her a pout in return. "Is this how you thank someone?"


    Stella furrowed her eyebrows at his remark.


    "I know just the way you can thank me."  He said, grabbing her arm and pushing her against the wall.


    Before Stella could register what was happening to her, his lips found hers.


    As Adam sucked on her lips, his one hand angled her face while the other traced over her exposed spine softly, sending sparks throughout her body.


    His hand that was cupping her face moved down at a torturously slow pace, tracing her neckline.


    Stella tried to control herself but a low moan escaped from her mouth bringing a smirk on his face. He liked the fact that her body responded to his touch.


    His lips traced down to her neck, peppering kisses till her soft spot. He sucked on it hard, earning another moan from her.


    He drew his lips back after a while, "Now, that''s a proper thank you."


    Hearing his shameless comment, Stella''s already flushed face turned more red.


    "Though I want to spend more time with you sweetheart, you should get to bed now since we have office tomorrow." He gave her a sad smile.


    "Good night." Stella nodded and headed to her room after wishing him.


    "I look forward to working with you." She heard him saying as she was closing the door.


    Shaking her head slightly, she waved at him, shutting the door completely.


    ---------------------------


    Adam was sitting in his chair, going through some files that needed to be signed by him. He was lost in his own world and didn''t know someone coming inside.


    A familiar vanilla scent wafted his nostrils, making him look up from the file. His eyes landed on the girl he has been missing since morning. Though they have arrived together at the office, but he just couldn''t be with her in front of his staff. He wouldn''t like it if anyone bad-mouthed her because of him.


    Moreover, she didn''t come to his office since they arrived, not even once. He could understand that she must have been with her own work, but he still couldn''t help but miss her, badly.


    Now, here she was, sitting before him. Her hands propped up, supporting her chin as she looked at him with a big smile on her face.


    "Look who''s here." Adam looked down at the file again, his lips pursed.


    "I brought you your lunch." She said. "What''s with the expression on your face?"


    "Someone finally bothered to show her face." He replied, without even looking at her.


    "I was busy and you know that." She shook her head sideways at his childish behavior. ''How is he the same person who rules over the business of entire Germany?'' She thought to herself.


    "Looks like you are more interested in that file, and here I thought we could have lunch together." She added with a pout, standing up from the seat.


    Before she could even take a single step towards the door, a pair of strong arms wrapped around her, pulling her back against his rock hard chest.


    "I am sorry. I just missed you too much beasty, and I was just a bit sad. I knew you were busy like crazy. I shouldn''t have overreacted over it. I am sorry." He apologized to her, placing his chin on her shoulder.


    "Hmm, it''s alright." Stella replied, shaking her head. ''Looks like I have found a way to deal with his tantrums.''


    "Let''s eat." Adam proposed.


    Before Stella could give him a reply, the office door opened suddenly, making Stella jump out of his embrace.


    Adam was enraged at the person who had just disturbed them. His eyes shifted towards the door to look at the person, ready to lash out on him or her.


    A girl strutted in, wearing a sexy bright red dress that embraced her curves perfect, reaching above her knees. Her blonde hairs that were styled into loose curls were let down that reached up to her elbows. Her fair delicate face was touched up a bit as to give her a natural look. Her golden high heels clicking against the dark gray marbled floor as she walked towards Adam.


    Her face brightened up as she looked at him. Once she was right before him, she threw herself on him, hugging him tightly by his waist.


    "Adam!" She squealed in delight. "It''s so good to be back home. I am sorry for staying away for so long, but you know, duty calls. I missed you so much. But now, I am back and I won''t be going anywhere for a long time. We have all the time for ourselves now."

 Chapter 46 - The Girl In Red

    "Adam!" She squealed in delight. "It''s so good to be back home. I am sorry for staying away for so long, but you know, duty calls. I missed you so much. But now, I am back and I won''t be going anywhere for a long time. We have all the time for ourselves now."


    Adam stood there quietly, his hands raise up slightly in either sides as no to touch the girl who was clinging to his as if her life depended on it.


    He felt a pair of eyes staring at him, he moved his head slightly to his left only to find Stella looking at him with her eyes narrowed. He gulped looking at her expressions. ''I am so dead.''


    "I have missed you so much Adam. That''s why I have decided not to take any more projects that requires me to go abroad. I can''t bare to stay away from you anymore." The girl in red dress was still clinging to him.


    Adam slightly shook his body as to escape from her hug, but she made her grip around him tighter.


    "Move back Rachel." Adam gritted his teeth. He didn''t want Stella to misunderstand him on the second day of their relationship. ''There''s no way I am going to let that happen.''


    He forcefully separated the girl from himself and stood at a fair distance from her.


    "How many times have I told you before that I don''t like it when people invade my privacy?" He exclaimed while trying to control his anger.


    "Oh come on Adam, I don''t count in people." She replied waving her hand in the air.


    "Stella meet Rachel, Rachel Nelson." He introduced the girl to Stella. "And Rachel, that''s Stella, my..."


    "His assistant." Stella interrupted him before he could finish his sentence.


    Adam narrowed his eyes at her. ''What had gotten into her now?''


    Rachel nodded at her, "And I am his childhood sweetheart." She added coyly.


    Adam looked at her, his eyes widening in shock. He turned to look at Stella, shaking his head sideways like a rattle. "What nonsense are you spouting before my staff? Get out of my office. Next time, don''t forget to knock." He shouted at her.


    "What are getting so worked up for? I am going now, but I will see you later on." She replied with a wink, making her way towards the door.


    Once she was out Adam locked the door by pressing a button that was on the inner side of his office desk. After making sure that no one would be able to disturb them, he walked towards Stella who now, had her back towards him.


    "Stella, it''s not like what you think." He said heading towards her way.


    "Oh! Really? Why don''t you enlighten me then?" She asked turning to face him, with a smirk on her face.


    He stepped towards her so that he can hug her, but she stepped back, raising a hand to stop him.


    "Stella?" He called her, worried that she might walk out right now.


    "I hate it when people lie to me. What happened to me being the ''only'' girl in your life and those promises?" She asked him, emphasizing on ''only''.


    "That you are. And I promise that I am not lying to you. I never will." He said running his hand through his hairs.


    Stella raised an eyebrow at him, her hands folded across her chest. "Oh?"


    "That girl was Rachel, Rachel Nelson." He started explaining to her.


    "You already told me that." She scoffed.


    "Remember that lunch meeting, the one I didn''t take you to saying that it wasn''t an important one?" He asked her.


    "Yeah! So it was with her." She replied to which he shook his head.


    "No, it was with Uncle Liam, his full name is Liam Nelson. He was my father''s closest friend and is somewhat a fatherly figure for me as well. Rachel is his daughter. It''s true that I have known her since we were kids. But that''s all. We just know each other since our childhood but there hasn''t been anything going on between us, there never was." He explained it to her.


    "If you don''t trust me, you can even ask Blake about it. We aren''t even friends to begin with. I don''t know why she did it. She knows that I hate physical contact with the opposite gender, I don''t even like them getting close to me. She had even always kept her distance from me. I don''t know why she would hug me out of nowhere." He continued taking slow steps towards her.


    When he saw that she wasn''t moving away from him, he stood before her and wrapped his arms around her. "I swear Stella, there''s no one other than you in my life, and I don''t think so there will be one even after you. Please, trust me."


    "I trust you, it''s just I felt a little¡­.. jealous." She replied hugging him back, her voice turning low at the last word.


    Adam chuckled in response. "So, my little elf knows how to get jealous too."


    "I know that you said yes because you promised that you will give me a chance, but I promise you that I will make you fall for me just like I have fallen for you." He continued as he cupped her face.


    "Now, let''s eat. I am famished." He said, dragging her towards the couch.


    ----------------------------


    A girl wearing a seductive red dress climbed into a white Mercedes. Just as she settles in, her phone rang. Looking at the caller ID, her lips broke into a smirk.

 Chapter 47 - Jealous

    *WARNING: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS SOME 18+ STUFF. Under 18 people and those who aren''t comfortable reading it, can skip it. There will be a warning before it starts.*


    A girl wearing a seductive red dress climbed into a white Mercedes. Just as she settles in, her phone rang. Looking at the caller ID, her lips broke into a smirk.


    "What? You are already missing me?" She spoke into the phone''s speaker after connecting the call.


    "In your dreams." A man replied from the other end, his voice deep and intimidating.


    "Well, they are filled with you these days just like you have been filling me." She replied in seductive  voice.


    "Is the work done or not?" He asked in a grumpy voice.


    "Yes, it is. You should have looked at that little vixen''s face when I was in Adam''s arm." She scoffed.


    "It will be better for you, if you keep that tongue of yours in control." The man shouted.


    "Alright! I won''t be calling your little darling with bad names, don''t get your panties in a twist." She replied rolling her eyes. "I will have Adam wrapped around my pinkie, sooner or later, then you can have that little assistant all to yourself."


    "It will be better for you if it''s sooner." The man replying with an underlying warning.


    "Okay, okay. What about my payment for today''s work?" She asked him with lust evident in her eyes.


    "Come and get it." The man replied, cutting off the call.


    "Drive to the hotel, the one we went to last night." She ordered the driver, glancing outside the tinted glass, her eyes set on the top floor of Levinson''s Corp. ''Don''t worry Adam. I will have you soon.'' She thought to herself as the car drove away.


    -----------------------------


    Stella came back to her office after having  lunch with Adam. Her mind was a mess right now. No matter how much she tried to busy herself with work, her mind kept drifting to the girl who had barged into his office as if she owned the place.


    What Adam said, was true. She had only said yes to him last night because she had promised to give him a chance. And also because he treated her so well. But she had somehow gotten attached to him.


    When she had seen that girl hugging him, she had felt a little jealous. Scratch that, she had felt a hell lot of jealousy. Even she herself couldn''t understand why.


    ''May be you have already started to fall for him.'' Her consciousness replied.


    "Shut up." She scolded her own self. "Don''t let your pretty little mind wander off this much Stella, or else you will go nuts."


    She glanced at the clock and continued to complete her tasks for the day.


    --------------------------


    *WARNING: 18+ CONTENT AHEAD, YOU CAN CONTINUE READING AFTER THE DOTTED LINES*


    Two hours later.


    In a presidential suite of a seven star hotel, a girl laid naked in the four poster bed. Her assets covered by a white satin bedsheet.


    Her eyes opened up slowly as she sensed someone moving around in the room.


    "Are you going somewhere?" She asked in a tired voice as the man walked towards the walk-in closet.


    "I have a meeting to attend." He replied as he walked out of it with his clothes in hands, a white towel wrapped around his lower body.


    "A meeting this late?" She asked tying her blonde hairs up in a bun as she removed the sheets that were covering her naked body.


    "Yes." The man looked at her, his pupils dilating as his black orbs stared at the naked girl lying in his bed.


    "They won''t mind it if you run a bit late, will they?" She asked him, spreading her legs wide apart to give him a delightful view. Her hand moving down further in between her legs as she stared at him, licking her bottom lip seductively.


    "Oh sure! They wouldn''t mind it." His gaze fixed at the area in between her legs as she rubbed it with her fingers.


    The man jumped at her, throwing the towel somewhere on the floor.


    He directly pushed his already hardened member inside her, filling her completely.


    A loud moan escaped from Rachel''s mouth. The feeling of being filled was something she craved badly and this man right here was the best she could ask for.


    The man moved in and out of her, his hands fiddling with her breasts as she moaned his name in ecstasy. Her fingernails grazing over his back, leaving marks behind.


    "Faster." She spoke in between her moans and the man duly complied with her request.


    He felt her releasing herself down there, but he continued to pump in and out of her until he released himself inside her.


    Both of them breathed in and out heavily, trying to calm themselves down.


    -----------------------------


    *CONTINUE READING*


    Half an hour later the man came out of the bathroom, completely dressed.


    "You can either stay here or check out whenever you like. The bill will be paid by my assistant, so you don''t have to worry about it." He told the girl who was lying down in the bed.


    "As if I am short of money." She scoffed. "And since I have already taken the advance payment, you don''t have to worry about them. It''s not like they are married." Rachel continued.


    "But it will be better for you if it happens sooner." The man replied going out of the room.


    "It''s not that difficult to kick that vixen out of Adam''s life." She murmured under her breath with a smug expression on her face.


    --------------------------------


    On the other side of the city, Adam and Stella were having a peaceful dinner on the rooftop garden with Adam teasing her every now and then, unaware of the conspiracy that has already started against them.

 Chapter 48 - Nap Time

    The next day at the office,


    "Hey! Are you free right now?" Adam spoke into the speaker of his phone.


    "Almost. Why do you ask?" Stella replied as she typed on her laptop.


    "Just come to my office when you get done with your work. I need to discuss something with you." He replied hearing the tapping sound coming from the other side.


    "Alright." She said hanging up the call.


    Half an hour later, Stella strutted in his office, the sound of her heels clicking against the marbled floor echoing in the quiet room.


    She looked at his office desk only to find his chair empty. ''Where did he go?'' She thought to herself heading towards the bedroom that was attached to his office.


    "Adam?" She called his name as she opened the door, her eyes landing on the king sized bed placed in the centre of the room. And there she saw her Boss/boyfriend, sprawled over it.


    His black coat was laid down properly on the couch that was placed before the bed. He had loosened his tie a bit, the first two buttons of his white button-down shirt undone. Coming to think of it, she hadn''t seen him wearing a tie since she had joined his company. ''Why is he wearing one today?''


    She placed down her phone on the bedside table. Heaving out a long sigh, she moved towards the other end. Holding up his legs that were dangling down the bed, she pulled them up, one at a time.


    Once he was lying down properly on the bed, she removed his shoes, placing them by the bed. She slowly undid his tie and placed it on the bedside table after neatly folding it.


    "Why can''t you look after yourself as well?" She murmured under her breath looking at his furrowed brows. She remembered him telling her about some important contract that he wanted to sign last night. ''Must have been working on that the entire night.''


    "Idiot!" She shook her head looking at the man who cared so much about others around him, but apparently not for his own self.


    She sat down beside him, her dainty fingers running over his furrowed brows as if trying to smoothen them.


    Just as she withdrew her hand, it was caught by his strong one. Adam brought it back to his face, rubbing his check against it as he kissed her palm.


    "You should have some rest. There''s nothing that requires your attention right now. I will deal with the remaining stuff." Stella spoke softly to him while caressing his cheek with her thumb.


    "No, don''t leave." He spoke moving closer to her.


    "But¡­." She tried to reason with him but he stopped her wrapping his arm around her waist.


    "No. No, and no." He said pushing her back against the headrest so that it won''t hurt later on.


    Stella was touched by his little gesture. ''He cares about me even when he''s this much sleepy that he can barely open his eyes.''


    "Alright! I am not going anywhere." She spoke, her fingers running through his silky black hairs.


    Adam hummed softly in response and went back to his dreamland.


    ----------------------------


    An hour later, Adam woke up to his ringing phone. He picked it up after looking at the caller ID.


    "Sup?" Adam asked in groggy voice.


    "Man, I have been waiting outside. Your secretary here said that you told her not to let anyone in except for Stella. Are you going to let me in or not?"


    Hearing Stella''s name, Adam turned his head only to find her sleeping in a sitting position with the back of her head resting against the headrest.


    ''I thought it was just a dream.'' He thought looking at her with a faint smile on his face.


    "I will be there in a while. Ask Bella to let you in." He said cutting off the call.


    "Stella?" He softly called out her name to which she didn''t respond.


    He made her lay down properly making sure that her head was resting on the pillow. After tucking her in under a comforter and increasing the temperature of air conditioner, he made his way out of the room, not forgetting to close the door shut.


    "Hey man! What''s with your disheveled state?" Blake asked him as soon as he came out.


    "I was taking a nap." Adam replied taking a seat next to him on the couch. "What would you like to drink?"


    "I already told the secretary outside to bring some coffee for us." Blake replied. "We were able to track further." He continued getting to the main point.


    "So?" Adam asked him to continue. He wasn''t worried that Stella might wake up and listen to their conversation. The sound insulation of his office was top-notch.


    "We still don''t know who''s actually behind it. But we got ourselves a man who might be able to lead us in the right direction." Blake spoke up. "And I am definitely sure that whoever it is, they are definitely after Stella, and not you."


    "I am giving you a week. Get me the name of the man." Adam replied in a cold voice that could send anyone trembling in fear.


    Just as Blake opened his mouth to reply him, Stella came out of the room stretching her arms out as a yawn escaped her mouth.


    "Sorry, I fell asleep in there." She spoke lazily.


    Blake looked at her with his eyes almost popping out of their sockets, his eyes darting from her to Adam and then back to her.


    "Oh my! What do we have here?" He finally spoke after a while with a mischievous grin on his face as something dawned on him.

 Chapter 49 - Welcome To The Family

    "Oh my! What do we have here?" He finally spoke after a while with a mischievous grin on his face as something dawned on him.


    Stella stopped in her tracks as she looked at Blake. ''Crap! Can''t you see there''s someone else in the room as well?'' She scolded herself inwardly as a faint blush spread over her cheeks.


    "May I ask something? I mean if you don''t mind, of course." Blake asked Stella.


    She meekly nodded in response.


    Rubbing his hands together, he opened his mouth as mischievous glint appeared in his eyes. "So, are you guys in a relationship?" He asked biting down his lower lip trying not to laugh.


    "Yes."


    "Yes."


    Adam and Stella replied in unison.


    Blake''s eyes darted from Stella to Adam. After a minute or two of staring at them, he broke out in a fit of laughter.


    "Finally! Congratulations man!" He exclaimed as he jumped on Adam.


    "Get off me, you moron." Adam shouted pushing him back.


    Blake complied to him and made his way to where Stella was standing still.


    "Congratulations to you as well Stella." He extended his hand towards her which she politely took. "Welcome to the family." He continued giving her hand a firm shake.


    ''I just agreed to be his girlfriend, what does he mean by family?'' Stella thought to herself as she looked at the grinning idiot standing before her.


    "You are making her uncomfortable." Adam spoke up as he stood up from the couch, making his way towards Stella.


    "If he ever bullies you, just tell me. I will kick his ass for you." Blake said letting go of her hand.


    "As if I will." Adam scoffed wrapping his arm around her waist.


    "It''s better to be safe than sorry." Blake shrugged it off as Adam narrowed his eyes at him.


    "Oh Stella, there''s this party I am holding at one of my clubs, I would love it if you come along with Adam." He continued..


    "That''s what I wanted to talk to you about earlier. We can go there, but only if you want to." Adam interrupted Blake. "The choice is yours. If you don''t want to go there then we can go somewhere else."


    She turned her head to look at Blake who was looking at her with a pleading expression.


    "It''s alright, we can go there." She replied looking at Adam, giving him a soft smile. She wasn''t one to go to such parties, but she just couldn''t say no to Adam. After all, Blake was his best friend and the only friend of him she knew.


    "So, when is it?" She asked Adam.


    "This weekend. Saturday night." Adam replied kissing the top of her head.


    "Alright." Stella nodded her head in response.


    There was a knock on the door and Bella entered with their coffees.


    Stella tried to move out of Adam''s grip but he only made his hold tighter, bringing her closer to him.


    Bella quietly placed the tray on the table before the couch and turn around to leave.


    "Thanks Bella." Adam thanked him as she was on her way out.


    "You''re welcome Sir." She replied without turning back and headed out. Though she has seen Stella standing too close to Adam, trying to struggle out of his grip with a flushed face, she chose not to look at her because of the poor girl''s expression. She looked like a child who was caught stealing chocolates from the refrigerator. ''No wonder Boss seems to act different when he''s around her.'' She shook her head at her own thoughts, but she was happy for her Boss. He deserved to have someone in his life.


    "Adam!" Stella looked at him as if she has been wronged.


    "What? She''s not dumb Stella. Why do you think she brought a cup of English tea along with our coffee? I didn''t even ask her to do that." He replied dragging her to the couch.


    Stella looked at the tray and was shocked to see a cup of tea along with two cups of coffee, one black and the other one regular.


    "You didn''t ask her to bring it?" Her question was more like a statement itself.


    "No, he didn''t. I was the one who asked her to bring in the coffee when I came. I didn''t know that you were here as well." Blake replied as he sat on the single couch.


    Adam brought her closer to him, his arm wrapped around her shoulder. "You''re worrying for naught sweetheart. She won''t say a word to anyone. She isn''t like that." He tried to calm down her nerves as his hand slowly rubbed her shoulder.


    She nodded her head slightly.


    Blake gave the couple a side glance as he took a sip of his coffee. ''They are going to become inseparable soon.'' He smiled to himself looking at their interactions.

 Chapter 50 - I Know One Thing For Sure

    Blake gave the couple a side glance as he took a sip of his coffee. ''They are going to become inseparable soon.'' He smiled to himself looking at their interactions.


    "I am sorry that I interrupted your privacy earlier. I have something to deal with, so I am going to go now." Blake interrupted their conversation after finishing up his coffee.


    Adam and Stella walked him to the door.


    "You guys can enjoy yourselves now." Blake said with a wink on his way out making Stella blush as she looked down at her feet.


    Adam closed the door and pushed Stella against it with a little force as not to hurt his girl.


    "Eeehhhh!" Stella squealed in surprise. "What are you doing?" She asked as he cupped her cheeks in his palms.


    "Didn''t you hear him? He asked us to enjoy ourselves." Adam replied with a mischievous grin on his face only to get a light smack on his chest.


    He chuckled at her reaction. He found her adorable even when she was glaring at him.


    "Don''t worry sweetheart, I will make sure that you enjoy yourself." He said crashing his lips on hers.


    All of Stella''s resistance was muffled by his lips. A low moan escaped from her lips as one of his hands went down to her waist, caressing it slowly as he pulled her closer to himself. His tongue pried into her mouth, exploring every corner of it. She was his own sweet drug, one he could not get enough of.


    Adam pulled his lips away so that she could breathe a bit.


    "Looks like you are enjoying yourself." He murmured against her lips before crashing  his lips on them once again.


    ---------------------------


    Saturday morning,


    "You should focus more on eating your breakfast rather than your phone." Adam scolded Stella when he saw her using her phone as her fork tried to find where the omelette was.


    "Sorry." She apologized to him meekly putting down her phone beside her plate.


    Adam hummed in response. "Have you decided what will you wear today?" He asked her.


    "No! Actually, I was quite a nerd in my college days, so parties and stuff weren''t my thing. All the clothes I own are either too formal or too casual." She replied poking her fork into the omelette.


    "You can wear anything you like Stella." Adam frowned. He couldn''t care less what she wore. To him she would always be the most beautiful one.


    "No! I want to go shopping." She said with a pout. ''How can I go to a party wearing my usual clothes?''


    "Then we will go for that but you have to finish your breakfast first." He replied pointing at her almost untouched food.


    "Okay! And I need to bring some clothes over from my apartment." She replied glaring at him.


    Last night when Stella asked him about moving back to her apartment, he declined her without even listening to her reasoning saying that the police investigation was still going on. The argument later on ended with him kissing the hell out of her.


    "I will send someone to bring them over." He replied taking a sip of his coffee to which Stella could only nod.


    -------------------------


    Later in the evening, Stella stomped into the living room with Adam following closely behind her.


    "Are you still not talking to me?" Adam asked her running his hands through his hairs in frustration.


    Stella only hummed in response. She was more than angry at him. He had bought everything single thing she took a liking to. And when she wanted to pay for it, he had snatched her credit card away. Moreover, when she had asked him to return it back, he kissed her in front of the salesclerk.


    Heaving out a long sigh, he took a seat beside her.


    "Stella?" He called her softly. "How can I let you pay for anything? I understand that you don''t like it, but you''re my girlfriend. Do I work my ass off daily so that my girl has to pay for her shopping herself?" He continued.


    He held her chin in-between his fingers, turning her face towards him. "Do you know how much you mean to me? Even though I don''t understand my own feelings for you but I know one thing for sure, I can lay the entire world at your feet baby girl." He gazed into her eyes.


    Listening to his words, her anger vanished into thin air. She jumped into his arms. "I understand." She replied wrapping her hands around his back.


    "I am sorry for kissing you in front of the salesperson. I know I shouldn''t have done it." He apologized to her earnestly, wrapping his arms around her.


    "It''s alright." She gave him a soft smile tilting her face up to look at him.


    "Since there''s no salesperson here, can I kiss you now?" He asked her giving her a pleading look.


    Stella smacked her hand on his shoulder. Adam burst into a fit of laughter looking at her blushing face.


    "We''ll be leaving in two hours, so you should go and get ready." He placed a lingering kiss on her forehead. "Off you go."

 Chapter 51 - Who Bought This Dress?

    Two hours later, Adam stood before his dressing table. He looked at his reflection in the mirror fixing his cuffs. He was dressed up in a checkered light grey suit with a white button-down shirt, the first two buttons were left undone. He had left his air-dried hairs untouched that gave him a casual yet appealing look. A limited edition Phatek Phillipe watch rested on his left wrist. Lastly, he put on a pair of hand crafted black leather shoes on his way out.


    "Stella?" He called her out knocking on her door. "We have to go now or else we will be running late and Blake will roast me alive." He knocked on the door once more.


    "How long are you going to take to get ready? I gave you two hours." He knocked once again and this time the door finally opened.


    "I was just putting on my stilettos." She replied coming out of her room. "Do I look okay?" She asked him once she was standing right before him.


    Adam gulped as his eyes moved up and down a couple of times looking at his little elf who was looking more like a hot model ready to walk on the ramp.


    She was wearing a skin tight strapless dark maroon short dress that stopped before her mid thigh. There was a little v-cut on the upper border of the dress that exposed a little bit of her cleavage. A golden chain like belt was tied loosely around her waist. She was wearing a matching lipstick shade to the dress, keeping her makeup minimum as always. Her wavy hairs were tied up in a high pony. Two golden loops were dangling from her ears whereas her neckline was bare showing off her prominent collarbones. A pair of black velvet boot style stilettos were sported by her feet, reaching upto her fair ankles.


    "Who bought this dress?" Adam finally spoke up after ogling her for a while.


    "Umm¡­.you?" Stella replied looking at him with her furrowed brows. "You said it will look good on me and is perfect to wear for today''s party." Stella replied recalling his words.


    "No! Nope! I was wrong. You should go and change." He replied instantly looking at her face.


    "Do I look that bad?" Stella looked at him with a pitiful expression.


    Adam heaved out a frustrated sigh. ''Why did I even buy her this dress?'' He scolded himself internally. "What? Who said that? You look absolutely amazing." He replied giving her smile, tugging her hand towards himself.


    "Sure?" She tilted her head down to look at her dress.


    "Yes." He replied tilting up her head back. "Let''s go or we may run late."


    --------------------------


    Half an hour later, both of them entered the first floor of the club. Adam directly took Stella to one of the booths that was already reserved for them. He hadn''t let go of her hand since they had stepped in, not even once.


    He heaved out a sigh of relief once they settled down. His anger was bubbling up seeing all those ass***** eyeing his girl. At least, they cannot do it now because of the low lighting in the booths.


    "Is it usually this crowded?" Stella asked him leaning close to his ear. She couldn''t even understand herself because of the loud music that was playing.


    "It''s actually more than this but today the club''s been closed for people. Only those who have invites can enter the place. The ground floor is reserved for gambling today. This one''s for drinking and dancing. The second floor is closed off but not for us. It has private rooms that can be booked by only a bunch of people who are special membership card holders. But Blake has one for himself where we usually drink and there''s one that''s mine." He explained to her which she nodded.


    Adam orders their drinks and they were soon served. There was a silent rule inside the Golden Corals. No female waiter was allowed to serve drinks to Adam or even try to take his order. Whoever wouldn''t comply with it, could kiss their jobs goodbye.


    "Who''s going to drive back?" Stella asked Adam worriedly when she saw him drinking beer as it was water.


    "Don''t worry sweetheart. That''s the job of the maniac who invited us tonight. Relax and enjoy yourself." Adam leaned back against the couch leisurely, his one hand resting behind Stella''s head while the other was holding the chilled beer bottle.


    Seeing her reluctance, he could guess that it was her first time going to a club. He tried to think of a way to loosen up his girl. He really wanted her to enjoy herself.


    "Come here." He asked Stella to come closer to him.


    Taking a big sip of his beer, he smacked his lips against hers. His tongue pried open her lips going deep inside. Stella felt some cold liquid entering her mouth, she couldn''t help but gulp it down. It left a bitter taste in her mouth.


    Adam withdrew his lips once he was sure that she had gulped it down. His tongue licked the drops beside her lips that had somehow escaped her mouth.


    "Either you drink it yourself, or I will make you drink it." He said giving her a peck on her lips.


    After being threatened by him, Stella picked up a beer bottle and gulped half of it down in one go leaving a burning sensation in her throat.


    Adam chuckled at her actions. "Though I would have preferred the latter one, but this will do for now." He said with a wink as he took a sip of his beer.


    Both of them were lost in their own world. Unbeknownst to them, a pair of black eyes has been observing their every action since they have entered the floor.

 Chapter 52 - Sister-in-law

    "Look at you guys, enjoying without me." Blake came to their booth.


    "Why should have we waited for you? Give me at least one good reason." Adam asked him with a smug as he stood up to greet him.


    "Well for one, I am the one who invited you guys." Blake replied with a pout as Adam patted him on his back.


    "We didn''t know when will you be coming to greet us. Otherwise, we would have." Stella spoke up making her way towards him.


    Blake engulfed her in a bear hug. "At least my sister-in-law cares for me." He spoke as he pretended to sob.


    Stella casted Adam a side glance as if asking for his help only to get a shrug in response. Adam shook his head as if trying to say ''You are the one who was being so good to him, now deal with the consequences.''


    "You are crushing her Blake." Adam finally gave into her pitiful expressions.


    "I didn''t mean to. I just got a bit emotional." He replied finally letting her go as he wiped off his non-existing tears.


    "I still have to show my face around, so you guys continue. I will see you in a while." Blake spoke as he looked into his phone. "You can head upstairs whenever you want to, just let me know so I don''t look for you guys everywhere." He continued and went away, leaving them alone.


    "Don''t worry, he always acts like a drama queen but he''s a good person. You will like him eventually." Adam said as he took a seat next to Stella.


    "I already like him." She replied giving him a soft smile.


    "That''s good." Adam replied. "Let me know when you want to go upstairs." He continued to get a nod from her.


    "I need to use the bathroom, I will be back in a while." Stella spoke up after emptying her third beer bottle.


    "I will accompany you." Adam replied getting up but was pushed down on the couch.


    "I am not a kid Adam. I will just ask some waitress for the way." Adam could only nod reluctantly as she glared at him.


    Stella touched up her lipstick before heading out of the ladies room. On her way to the booth area, she was looking for her phone in her black clutch when she bumped into someone, dropping it on the floor.


    "I am so sorry." She apologized as she tried to pick up her things which were now scattered on the floor.


    "Please let me." A man spoke up and bent down to pick up her things. He handed her all the things along with her clutch.


    "Thank you so much." Stella gave him a polite smile taking her things from him. "I am sorry for not watching where I was walking to." She apologized once again.


    "The fault is mine too. I should have watched my way as well." The man replied looking intently at her.


    "It''s alright." She replied politely. "I should get going now. Thank you once again." She said heading back inside. She didn''t want Adam to turn the place upside down just because she took a couple of minutes more.


    The man looked at her retreating figure with a roguish grin on his face. He opened the palm of his hand that was holding a pocket sized perfume. Spraying it in the air, he took a deep breath as he looked into the direction where the girl''s retreating figure has disappeared with lust evident in his black eyes.


    -----------------------------


    "What took you so long?" Adam asked Stella as soon as she sat next to him.


    "I bumped into someone on my way here." Stella gave him an eye roll.


    "I ordered some vodka shots for us." Adam replied pointing at the table.


    "Oh!" She replied picking up one and gulping it down. After having five shots, her mind went numb.


    "Take it easy sweetheart. They aren''t going anywhere." Adam chuckled looking at his little elf chucking down shots one after the other. He was glad they had a late lunch after shopping or else she might have been drunk long before.


    "Let''s dance Adam." She grabbed his hand and tried to drag him but he didn''t even bulge from his spot.


    "No, we aren''t dancing here." He replied.


    "Then I will dance alone." She said sprinting towards the dance floor before Adam could grab her hand.


    She started moving her body to the music. After drinking this much, she was more carefree now.


    Adam gulped down vodka shots one after the other as his eyes followed her as she moved her body to the beat.


    "F***!" He muttered under his breath as he could not control himself anymore looking at his little seductress. Gulping down one more shot, he made his way to the dance floor.


    He pulled her into his arms pressing her body against his.


    "I thought you said you aren''t going to dance." Stella gave him a goofy smile as her arms found their way around his neck.


    "I couldn''t help it." He said as their bodies moved to the beat, rubbing against each other.


    ''And it''s better if these ass***** watch you dance with me rather than you alone baby girl.'' He thought.

 Chapter 53 - Settling His Score With Her

    "Why aren''t you this carefree when you are sober baby?" Adam muttered next to her ear making her giggle as his breath tickled her ear.


    "If you like, I can get drunk daily." She purred next to his ear as she traced his jawline with her finger.


    Adam''s heart skipped a beat looking at his girl, dancing in between his arms.


    "No, let''s keep you sober." He shook his head. ''Or else I may have a heart attack.''


    After dancing for a while, Adam took her upstairs in his private room after leaving Blake a text.


    "Stella, be careful." Adam sighed at the sight of her sprinting towards the bed in her heels.


    "What could happen to me when you are here?" She replied taking off her heels and throwing them away.


    He leaned his back against the door. "What do you want to eat?"


    "Anything will do as long as I can have those shots with it." She giggled.


    "No more alcohol for you." He said taking out his phone. After talking to the manager of the club, he made his way towards his girl who was now bouncing up and down on the spring mattress like a child.


    He leaned against the headrest, his eyes still locked on her. "Come here." He said opening his arms to her. She turned her face towards him and jumped right into them, landing on his firm chest.


    "I am glad that you are getting more comfortable around me." He said rubbing her back.


    She hummed softly snuggling closer to him. "I am sorry that I am not able to reciprocate your feelings." She looked up at him with teary eyes.


    "Hey, hey, hey! It''s not a problem at all sweetheart. You can take all the time you need. And even if you don''t do it then, I won''t mind as long as I can stay by your side baby girl." He spoke softly to her.


    His sweet words made her cry even more. Adam wiped off her tears with his thumbs kissing her forehead. Just as he was about to say something, there was a knock at the door.


    "Looks like the food is here." Stella''s face brightened up. Adam laughed at her sudden mood shift.


    Half an hour later, after eating and drinking more Stella was now slurring through her words.


    "A-A-Adam?" She called him lying down on the bed. "C-Come here."


    "Do you need anything?" He asked her making his way towards her.


    "D-don''t I l-look g-good today?" She asked him as he sat down next to her.


    "Of course you do." He replied running his fingers through her hairs.


    "T-Then why haven''t y-y-you ki-ssed me?" She pouted.


    "Because I didn''t want to ruin your makeup sweetheart, but I can definitely do that now." He replied with a smirk as he closed his lips over hers.


    Half a minute or so into the kiss, Adam felt something wrong with her responses. He withdrew his lips back to found her sleeping soundly under him.


    ''Did she just fell asleep when I was kissing her?'' He was utterly flabbergasted.


    After tucking her in properly, he made his way out to have some drinks with Blake. Having a high alcohol tolerance had its own perks for sure.


    ---------------------------


    Next morning, Stella woke up with a splitting headache. She groaned holding her head in between her hands.


    "Look who''s up." Adam spoke up sitting leisurely on the couch.


    Stella tilted her head up to look at him. "Why does my head hurt so much?"


    "Because you enjoyed yourself so much last night." He replied making his way towards her. "Drink it, then you can have some pain killers." He handed her a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice along with some aspirin.


    Stella drank it in one go after murmuring her thanks to him.


    "You even tried to take advantage of me in your drunken state." He spoke sitting down next to her.


    "I can''t do that." She snapped her head towards him, her eyes widening in shock.


    Adam didn''t reply but only looked at her with a sad expression on his face as if he had been wronged by her.


    "Did I?" She furrowed her brows. "I am so sorry." She apologized to him.


    "I didn''t say that I mind it sweetheart. What are you apologising for?" He gave her faint smile.


    "I really don''t mind you taking advantage of me." He moved closer to her, his lips a few inches away from hers.


    Stella closed her eyes in anticipation of a kiss. Adam smirked looking at her expressions.


    "Here it is. I was looking for it everywhere." He waved his phone picking it up from the bedside table.


    Stella abruptly opened her eyes as her face turned crimson red.


    "I will order for our breakfast." Adam broke the silence, waving his phone before her face.


    He headed outside after settling his score with her  for last night with a devilish grin on his face. ''I am sorry sweetheart, I will make it up to you later on.''

 Chapter 54 - Katherine

    The breakfast was soon served. As they sat down on the couch, Adam spoke up, "I want to take you somewhere tonight."


    "Hmm." Stella hummed in response as she chewed on her pancakes. "But we have to go to office tomorrow." She spoke after swallowing it down.


    "It won''t take that long." Adam replied with a wink. "But there''s someone I want you to meet first. Actually, Blake does." He continued.


    "Who?" She asked giving him a questioning look.


    "You will know soon. Now finish up your breakfast. I want your plate to be squeaky-clean." He ordered her with a smirk only to get an eye roll in return.


    Soon after they were done with their breakfast, there was a knock on the door.


    "Come in." Adam spoke up.


    "Hey guys! Sorry if I am interrupting anything important." Blake came in with a mischievous grin on his face. "I heard you enjoyed a lot last night Stella."


    "Though I don''t remember much, but I must have if you''re saying so." She replied giving him a soft smile.


    "Well, I am glad you did. I actually wanted to introduce you to someone. She came a bit late last night so she wasn''t able to meet you then." Blake said turning himself around. "You can come in now."


    A tall fair skinned girl walked wearing a knee length light turquoise sleeveless dress which hugged her curves perfectly. She had dark brown straight hairs which were cut into a lob and had light golden brown lowlights. She looked no less than a model as she strutted into the room in her golden stilettos.


    "You must be Stella." She headed towards her and jumped right on her, engulfing her into a tight hug. "It''s so good to finally meet you in person. I have heard so much about you from Blake and of course Adam as well." She squealed in delight as she crushed her.


    "She cannot breathe Katherine." Blake scolded her.


    "Oops! Sorry. I just got a bit overexcited." She apologized to Stella, finally letting go of her. "By the way, I am Katherine. Katherine Collins." She introduced herself to Stella as she extended her hand towards her.


    "Hey, I am Stella. Stella Martin. But looks like you already know that." Stella gave her polite smile as she shook her extended hand.


    "Katherine is my baby sister." Blake interrupted them.


    "I am just five minutes younger than you. Who the hell are you calling a baby sister?" Katherine lashed out at him.


    "You guys are¡­.." Stella suddenly spoke up as she realized something.


    "Twins." Adam, who was completely left out of the conversation, completed her sentence. "Fraternal twins to be precise." He continued.


    "Oh! You are here too." Katherine spoke up. "I can totally see why Adam is so smitten by you." She continued turning her concentration back to Stella.


    Stella blushed at her sudden remark.


    "You are so much prettier than that haughty bi***. No wonder Adam took a liking to you." Katherine continued to talk to Stella, completely ignoring the other two men in the room who were now sitting on the couch. "Oh, I was talking about that Rachel. I am sure you must have met her by now." She explained looking at Stella''s confused expression.


    "Yeah! I have." Stella replied.


    "She''s one of those pesky little flies who always buzz around Adam, wanting to grab his attention, even though he doesn''t pay any heed to them." Katherine continued. "Why don''t we go downstairs and leave these two men here?" She suggested looking at Stella with her big pleading eyes.


    Stella look down at her clothes. She was wearing some casual PJs that Adam had asked someone to bring over.


    "There won''t be anyone downstairs at this hour sweetheart." Adam spoke up.


    "Alright then." Stella replied looking at Katherine, who jumped up and down like an excited kid, dragging her out of the room.


    "Katherine, she isn''t one to talk a lot, so don''t tire her out and no alcohol for her. She has had her fair share of alcohol last night." Adam warned Katherine as they were heading out of the room to which she replied with an okay sign.


    After they left the room, Blake opened a folder that he had brought earlier with him and placed it on the table before Adam.


    Adam looked at the details inside it. The air around him turning chiller as his eyes landed on a photo that was attached with the details. In the picture a man''s silhouette can be seen who held a phone to his ear.


    "He''s our man." Blake broke the silence. "But he was wearing a mask, no one could tell us how he looked like exactly except his built. I have my best men on it. We''ll have results soon." He continued looking at his best friend who had a murderous aura surrounding him as his narrowed eyes looked at the picture.

 Chapter 55 - Arent You My Boyfriend?

    "She sure is a chatty person." Stella sighed as she entered inside.


    "I thought you won''t be back for another hour or so." Adam gave her a lopsided smile.


    "What?" She exclaimed in horror. "I was with her for three hours already." She pouted.


    "I was just joking. No need to get so worked up sweetheart." Adam chuckled at her horrified expression. "She''s motor mouthed but she is a good person."


    "That she definitely is. It''s just that I am not used to talking so much. I knew some of my colleagues in college, but they weren''t exactly my friends." Stella replied sitting next to him on the bed.


    "You will now." He wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close to himself.


    "She is a fashion designer." Stella said recalling her conversation with Katherine which was more like a monologue since she was the one doing all the talking.


    "She was just being humble. She''s not just your average fashion designer, she runs her own fashion brand. She''ll surely drag you there one day." Adam replied kissing her forehead.


    "You should go and freshen up. We will head out in an hour. Wear something casual." He continued.


    "But I don''t have any clothes here." Stella replied as her brows furrowed.


    "You don''t have to worry yourself about such a trivial matter. I sent someone to get a few casual wears for you, you can just choose one for yourself." Adam pointed towards the couch where a bunch of shopping bags were resting on it.


    "Thank you so much Adam." Stella gave him a sweet smile, one which could always melt his heart.


    "By the way, I asked them to bring some for me as well. Why don''t you chose for me as well? I have to take care of something. I will be back in a while." He said as he got up and headed out of the room.


    Stella made her way towards the couch to have a look into the bags.


    ---------------------------


    Half an hour later, Adam entered the room to find a black t-shirt with a v-neck lying down on the bed along with a light gray trousers. There was post it on the t-shirt with something written on it, picking it up he read the cursive handwriting.


    ''Wear this!


    <3


    S''


    A smile bloomed over his face as he looked at the note. Taking out his phone, he took a picture of it so that he can always keep it with himself in a way.


    He picked up the clothes and headed to Blake''s room so that he could freshen up.


    Half an hour later Adam came back to his room to find Stella tying up her hairs into a bun.


    "Don''t tie them up." He said making his way towards her.


    He took the scrunchie from her hand and ran his fingers through her hairs.


    "I like your hair more this way." He said looking at her reflection in the mirror. His eyes then fell onto her clothes. She was wearing a black crop top paired with light gray shorts. He then looked at his own clothes.


    "Did you deliberately chose matching clothes for us?" He asked her with an amused expression.


    "So what if I did." She said looking down at her feet. "Aren''t you my boyfriend? I will change into something else if you mind it so much." She said pursing her lips.


    "Stella! Calm down. Why do you have to think so much about everything I say? Do you know how happy it makes me that you just called me your boyfriend? And the fact that you chose this by your own will." He said turning her around so that she could face him.


    "Look at me sweetheart." He said tilting her chin up. "No matter what you do or why, I can never mind it. Never. In fact I will love it knowing that you did it for me. Just like I am flying over the clouds right now that you picked matching clothes for us." He placed a lingering kiss on her forehead.


    Stella wrapped her arms around his back. "I am sorry for overthinking so much. I always do it." She said leaning her forehead on his shoulder as he hugged her back.


    "You don''t have to apologize to me for it, or for anything. Let''s head out before you overwork this tiny brain of yours." He said knocking softly on the top of her head.


    Taking her hand in his, he took her downstairs where his car was already parked outside the club''s entrance.


    "Aren''t we going to say goodbye bye to Blake before going?" Stella asked him as he sat down in the driver''s seat.


    "No, he''s sleeping at the moment." Adam replied as he drove the car towards their destination.

 Chapter 56 - Sunset

    After driving for almost an hour, Adam stopped the car by a mountain.


    "Close your eyes." He said turning towards Stella.


    "Why?" She asked, narrowing her eyes.


    "Just do it sweetheart." He gave her pleading look. "Pretty please?"


    "Alright." She said shaking her head sideways as she closed her eyes.


    Stella felt something being placed over her eyes. "What are you doing?" She asked him exasperatedly.


    "Just making sure that you won''t open your eyes."  Adam said as he tied a black blindfold over her eyes, making sure that it wasn''t too tightly bound.


    "Now sit back and enjoy the ride." He said placing soft a peck on her cheek.


    After a few more minutes, Stella felt the car coming to a stop.


    Adam got out of the car and made his way to the passenger seat''s door. Opening it, he held Stella''s hands and guided her out.


    "Why are you being so mysterious?" Adam heard her asking as she held onto his hands.


    "You will know in a while sweetheart." He murmured next to her ear.


    After taking a few steps forward with Stella next to him, Adam stopped and wrapped his arms around her waist.


    "Open your eyes love." He whispered in her ear after removing the blindfold.


    Stella slowly opened her eyes and blinked them a couple of times as they adjusted to the surrounding light. She was completely mesmerized by the view before her.


    A number of hills that were covered completely by tall trees, stood before her. The chirping of birds as they headed towards their homes, filled the air. The wind blowing by, playing with the locks of her hair as the sun was setting in the horizon.


    "It''s¡­ it''s so beautiful Adam." Stella finally spoke as she looked at the scenic view before her.


    "It sure is." He replied looking at her, his eyes set on her face, the golden rays of the setting sun illuminating it and making her hazel eyes glow.


    "Stella?" He called her name softly.


    "Hmm?" She hummed in reply, turning her face towards him. As soon as she did, she felt his lips crashing over hers. She turned her body to face his, wrapping her slender arms around his neck. Adam tightened his hold on her waist, bringing her body impossibly close to his own.


    He kissed her as if his life depended on it, sucking on to her luscious lips that were as soft as a marshmallow. He smirked into the kiss at her feeble attempts to reciprocate his actions. He grazed his teeth over her lower lip, earning a moan  in return.


    Stella was getting dizzier with every passing second, her mind was numb now. She had long forgotten her surroundings, and the only thing she could focus on was now Adam. The feeling of his lips over hers, his tongue grazing over hers, his hands that were holding her close to him, his masculine scent wafting up her nose.


    Just as she thought she was going to faint, Adam let go of her lips resting his forehead on hers.


    "You¡­ You drive me crazy baby." Adam spoke as he took deep breaths to calm himself down.


    Stella looked up only to see a pair of gray eyes that were filled with complex emotions, looking back at her.


    "Looks like you have the same effect on me." She chuckled, her forehead still leaning against his.


    "Stay here." Adam let go of her after calming himself down. He went to car''s trunk and took out a bunch of things from it. After closing the trunk, he made his way to the car''s front.


    Stella saw him placing a beige color duvet and some cushions on the car''s hood.


    "Come over here." He said as he jumped to sit on the bonnet.


    He helped her get up on the bonnet and placed a cushion against her back so that she could comfortably lean against the windshield. Picking up another duvet from the side, he covered their legs with it as he leaned against the windshield placing an arm around her shoulders.


    "This is my favorite spot in the city. Whenever I am sad or have to take a decision about my life, I come over here to think. I wanted to share it with you, make some memories that I can always recall whenever I come here. Blake and I use the track for racing every now and then." He told her.


    Stella listened to him as she looked at the setting sun.


    "The last time I came here, I made the most important decision of my life. I decided to give my feelings for you a chance, I chose to tell you about them. And here I am, at the same place with you in my arms." Adam continued as he looked at her intently, a faint smile on his face.


    Stella turn her face towards him. His words made a warmth spread through her. She snuggled close to him, leaning her head against his shoulder. She didn''t know what to say to him in return, so she chose to show it by her actions.


    As If understanding her emotions, Adam placed a lingering kiss on the top of her head.

 Chapter 57 - Under The Starry Sky

    Watching the sunset behind the green hills, they sat in silence with Adam''s arm wrapped around her shoulders and her head leaning against his shoulder as Stella drew tiny circles on his t-shirt with her finger.


    Time went by and the sky turned darker and darker with each passing minute. The only source of light were the headlights of the car which Adam had turned on.


    "Isn''t it too late?" Stella asked him tilting her head up.


    "No, you have yet to see the best part and why this place is my most favorite spot." He replied, placing a kiss on her forehead.


    Adam pulled up the duvet that was covering them up to her shoulders as the wind had become chillier. He didn''t want her to catch a cold just because he wanted to show her this place.


    "Are you sure that it''s safe here?" Stella asked him with a worried expression on her face. "I mean there aren''t any wild animals here. Right?"


    "Yeah!" Adam replied sincerely. After a long pause he continued. "Well, except for a few boars and grizzly bears, there aren''t any wild animals in this part of the terrain. Oh, and some big snakes."


    Stella''s eyes widened as Adam continued to rant on about the zoogeography. She would have almost jumped down the bonnet and locked herself in the car if it wasn''t for Adam, who was holding her tightly close to himself.


    Looking at her fearful expressions, Adam chuckled. "Relax sweetheart. I was just joking about the animals. There isn''t a single wild animal in these parts of the woods which could do any harm to a human."


    "So, you were just pulling my leg?" Stella narrowed her eyes at him.


    "I wouldn''t exactly call it pulling your leg, but I was just curious as to what can get my little elf so worried." He replied rubbing her shoulder.


    "Yeah, right! Me getting worried about a bunch of wild animals appearing out of nowhere and hurt us is senseless." Stella replied sarcastically.


    "You have lived here for your whole life and you don''t know that we don''t have wild animals in this part?" Adam questioned her with a smirk on his face. "And this a tracking area."


    "Umm¡­ I am not an outgoing person. So, I have never been here before, even when my colleagues used to come." She spoke up as her fingers randomly drew random patterns on his t-shirt.


    "It''s alright sweetheart. You have me now, and I am going to show you every single place that Berlin has to offer." He said making Stella smile.


    "You must find me boring." She murmured under her breath but he still caught on it.


    "What did you say? Did you just call my girlfriend boring?" Adam looked at her with a displeased expression.


    His finger landed on her lips just as she was about to reply to him. "No one, not even you, is allowed to call my girlfriend boring, because she isn''t. Do you understand that?" He spoke as he narrowed his eyes at her.


    Stella nodded her head in response. She was having an urge to laugh at his childish behavior. Who knew that the Adam Levinson, who could make the entire business economy of Germany crumble, could have such a side to his personality as well.


    "Look up." Adam suddenly spoke up pointing at the sky with the same finger that was on her lips a few seconds ago, and so did she.


    The sky had turned even a darker shade of blue and one could clearly see the tiny stars scattered throughout it, dazzling in the distance. The crescent shaped moon stood alone among them, shining with all its brilliance, brightening up the night sky.


    Stella was dumbfounded as she looked at the sky. She had never seen such a beautiful view in her life before. Well, she did see one earlier today, but there was something about the night that attracted her.


    "I can not believe that I have lived my entire life in the same city." She spoke after a while, still looking at the sky.


    "This is actually why it is my favorite spot." Adam replied. "You can not see such a view when you are in the main city because of the buildings. But here, it''s just pure nature." He continued as he looked at Stella. Though it was dark even after the light that was coming from headlights that were on, he could still see her little face that was glowing under the moonlight. He suddenly had the urge to kiss her badly.


    "Sweetheart?" He murmured leaning towards her ear.


    "Yeah?" Stella replied as a shiver ran down her spine.


    He turned her face towards him, holding her chin in between his fingers.


    "Remember that I said something about making some memories here with you, which I could recall whenever I come over here?" He said to which she nodded.


    He smirked looking at her adorable expression. "Then let''s make some." He said and smacked his lips over hers.

 Chapter 58 - Cranky Stella

    Next day at the office,


    Stella came in Adam''s office to hand over some files.


    "There you go." She smacked the pile of files on his desk. "These are the files that you asked me to bring over."


    "Well, thank you sweetheart. But may I know why are you so worked up?" Adam asked giving her a bright smile, one that could charm any girl on the planet and might even bent some men.


    "Are you asking me why am I so cranky since morning?" Stella narrowed her eyes at him, her hands folded over her chest.


    "Uhh¡­. You could say that." He answered her meekly.


    "Well, it''s all thanks to you." Stella replied giving him a smile, one that didn''t reach her eyes.


    "Wh-what?" Adam asked her confusingly as he made his around the table towards her.


    "You are the one who made me stay up late last night. Even after saying that it won''t take long." Stella looked at him accusingly.


    Adam stood before her, leaning against his office desk.


    "And what''s that got to do with your cranky mood?" Adam asked her as he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer to him.


    "I was already tired because of the party and I couldn''t get enough sleep last night too. Now, I can not focus on my work no matter how hard I try to. And I even keep yawning." She berated him.


    "It''s alright if you can not focus on work today sweetheart." He said giving her a soft pat on the top of her head. "And I didn''t hear you complaining about it last night. You were clearly enjoying the view and my company as well." He gave her devilish smile.


    After a dramatic pause, he brought his lips closer to her ear. "As far as I remember, you were enjoying being in my arms, snuggled up against me. And you didn''t seem to mind my kisses either. Specially when you were making those pleased sounds."


    Stella''s face turned crimson as his breath brushed over her ear, giving her goosebumps all over as he reminded her of the previous night and their time together.


    "You weren''t even letting go of my neck even when I withdrew my lips so that you could take a breath." He continued murmuring close to her ear, bringing his lips closer and closer to it.


    "Ahh!" Stella yelped as he suddenly bit her earlobe. After biting her earlobe, he started sucking on it. Stella grabbed onto the lapels of his coat and moaned as shivers ran down her spine.


    "You were enjoying it then as well just as you are now babygirl. You can not just blame only me for losing track of time when you are responsible for it yourself sweetheart. Who told you to look so tempting?" Adam spoke looking at the girl in his arms who was now breathing heavily with her eyes closed.


    "Shut up." Stella smacked his shoulder lightly as her face turned a deep shade of red.


    "By the way, we have a dinner to attend tonight." Adam spoke as he suddenly remembered about the invite.


    "Do we have to?" Stella said with a pout.


    "I know you are tired, so am I. If it wasn''t important, I wouldn''t have asked you sweetheart. And don''t worry, it''s not a business thing. A close friend of my Dad invited me for dinner at his place tonight and I want to introduce you to him. So, I will love it if you can accompany me." Adam explained to her.


    "But if you don''t want to go then I won''t force you sweetheart. The choice is yours." He continued and placed a kiss on her forehead.


    Stella pursed her lips as she fell in her deep thoughts. She didn''t like going out to dinners and stuff but she didn''t have the heart to say no to him. Specially when he was this sweet to her.


    "I will go with you." She said heaving out a long sigh.


    Adam smiled at her and places a lingering kiss on her lips.


    "I know you are doing this for me. I really want to introduce you to him. He''s like a father figure to me. I can''t thank you enough Stella for agreeing to this." He said as he hugged her tightly.


    "It''s no biggie." Stella replied patting his shoulder softly.


    "We will go back earlier than usual today so that you can have some rest before we head out for dinner." Adam said as he pulled himself back.


    "But---." Adam placed a finger on her lips, stopping her from completing her sentence.


    As if reading her thoughts, he spoke up. "I am the CEO and President of the company. I could do as I please and that includes going back home early before the office hours end." He gave her a wide grin.


    Stella could only shake her head in response.

 Chapter 59 - Nice Choice Of Sleepwear

    "Stella? Wake up!" Adam shouted at the top of his lungs as he knocked at the door of her room.


    "Stella?" He shouted once again.


    "Whaaaatttt?" Stella opened the door groggily. Her hair was a mess and so were her clothes. She was wearing a plain off-white cotton shirt along with matching trousers. There was a sketch of a Pikachu on her shirt.


    "Nice choice of sleepwear." Adam smirked looking at her feet which were sporting a pair of fluffy slippers. "And oh, I like your sleepers as well." He continued.


    "Shut up! These are cute." She pouted at him.


    "Can''t say about these but you sure are looking cute." He said leaning against the door frame.


    A blush crept up on her cheeks. "Why were you shouting and trying to knock down my door?" Stella asked ignoring his statement.


    "I tried calling you but you weren''t picking up my calls so I had to make sure that you wake up or we might have missed the dinner." He replied.


    "Oh! I put my phone on silent before going to sleep. I''ll go and start getting ready. You should as well." Stella said as she was closing the door.


    "Do you need my help for anything? If you do, then let me know." Adam winked at her.


    Stella blushed and slammed the door right on his face. If it wasn''t for his fast reflexes, his nose would be bleeding now.


    Adam chuckled at her reaction and headed to his room.


    An hour later, Adam was dressed in a maroon v-neck full-sleeve t-shirt paired with a black fitted jeans and white sneakers. He gave off a laid-back vibe but was still looking dapper.


    Just as he was combing his hairs, there was a knock on the door.


    "Come in." He said, still facing the dressing table.


    "It''s me. I am ready" Stella replied.


    "I know that. Come in." Adam called her.


    Stella entered his room with slow steps and stopped right in the middle of the room.


    "Wow." She exclaimed looking around his room. She was awestruck by the interiors. Though everything was pretty much monotone, but it still looked elegant.


    "You like it?" Adam asked turning around as he made his way towards her.


    Stella nodded in response. "It''s good."


    "And what about me?" He asked her, giving her his big puppy eyes.


    After scrutinizing him for a minute, she spoke up. "You look dashing. But there''s one thing that you need to change." She replied with seriousness.


    "What?" Adam asked her narrowing his eyes at her.


    "Your hairstyle. I prefer them messy, suits you more." She replied pursing her lips.


    Adam bent down his head so that she could reach it easily. "They are all yours. Do whatever you want to."


    Seeing her hesitation, Adam pulled her hand from her side and placed it on his hairs. Heaving out a long sigh, Stella ran her fingers through his silky black hairs.


    "Stand straight." She asked him, more like ordered, to which he complied.


    Stella extended her hand up and messed his hairs. After running her fingers through them a couple of times, she stepped back when she was finally satisfied with her handiwork.


    "That''s more like it." She gave him a smug smile satisfied with her handiwork.


    Just as Adam was turning around to have a look at what had she done to hai hairs, she stopped him, grabbing his shoulders in the process.


    "No, you won''t look at your hairs until we come back home." Stella gave him a stern look. "Do you have some hairspray?" She asked him.


    "Yeah, it''s on the dressing table." He replied nodding his head.


    "Stay here and don''t you dare to move." She ordered him and made her way to his dressing table.


    Coming back to him, she sprayed a tiny amount of it on his hairs. "Now your hairs will stay this way until we come back."


    Adam sighed softly. "Alright, let''s go now."


    "You haven''t told me how I look yet." She pouted.


    "You always look good to me sweetheart." Adam replied kissing her forehead.


    "But at least look at my dress for once." She said rolling her eyes at him.


    Adam looked down at his little elf who was wearing a light mint color off shoulder frock that reached upto her mid-thigh. A simple rose gold chain with a leaf shaped locket hung around her delicate neck. She wore a pair of matching ear studs, rather than those dangling one she usually chose. She had kept her makeup simple and minimal, and had chosen a brown shaded lipstick this time. Though he preferred different shades of red as they suited her more, this wasn''t looking bad on her either. Last but not the least, she was wearing a pair of black pump heels that were not too high but not too short either.


    "You look breathtakingly beautiful Stella." He softly spoke as he caressed her cheek with his thumb.


    "Let''s go then." She gave him a soft smile.

 Chapter 60 - Dinner (1)

    Parking the black Maybach in the driveway, Adam stepped out and made his way to the passenger side. Opening the car door, he offered his hand to Stella, which she took instantly. After helping her down, he headed towards the entrance of the mansion that stood tall before them, along with Stella.


    He didn''t let go of her hand even after entering the mansion.


    "It''s so beautiful." Stella looked around with her awestruck face.


    "Well, Auntie was a really good interior designer. Uncle hasn''t changed a thing after her, and had kept the place exactly it was when she was alive." Adam gave her a sad smile.


    "Sounds like, he loved her a lot." Stella spoke softly with a faint smile on her face.


    "He still loves her." Adam replied. Just as he was about to continue telling her about them, he heard someone approaching them.


    "Good evening, Master Adam." The butler of the Nelson family greeted him.


    "Good evening." Adam replied with a soft smile on his face.


    The old butler''s gaze fell on the lady standing closely to him as their hands were interlocked. "Good evening Miss." He greeted Stella politely.


    "Good evening." Stella replied politely as well.


    "Let me take you to living room. They are already waiting for you there." The butler spoke as he guided them to the living room. Once they were outside the living room, the butler bowed his head and left.


    Adam and Stella stepped inside.


    "There you are boy. I thought I will be eating alone." Liam looked at him with his narrowed eyes.


    "Don''t blame me. If you want to blame someone, blame her." Adam spoke pointing a finger at Stella as he made his way towards him. "She was tired, so I let her took a nap. Who knew a nap means a proper sleep to the girl?"


    Stella looked at him with her eyes widened in shock as she opened and closed her mouth to say something a couple of times, but nothing came out.


    It was only then that Liam noticed the boy didn''t come alone. Though he had informed him beforehand but he only took it as a joke. The boy had grown up before his eyes and he had never seen him with a girl.


    His eyes trailed to the petite girl who was standing at a distance from where he was. The longer he looked at the girl''s face, the more he felt confused. No matter what, he could never forget that face. Before he could say anything to the girl, someone came in the room.


    "Adam!" Rachel yelped in excitement as soon as she entered the room. "How are you? God I have missed you so much." She exclaimed as she made her way to where he was standing.


    "Hey Rachel, I didn''t know that I will be seeing you tonight." He gave her a polite nod in response.


    "I actually went out with my friends. Just came back. I will go and freshen up, will you see later." She replied giving him a wide smile.


    Rachel then ran up to her Dad. "I will join you guys at the dining table." She said, giving him a hug.


    As she was heading out, her eyes fell on Stella who was quietly standing, looking everywhere but at her.


    "I didn''t know that you bring your secretary to family dinners as well." Rachel said with a smirk on her face.


    "Come here Stella." Adam asked her to come where he was standing with Liam.


    Stella scooted over to him.


    "I want you to meet Stella. My girlfriend." He said introducing her to Liam as he wrapped an arm around her waist. "Stella, meet Liam Nelson, my father''s childhood friend. You can just call him Uncle Liam."


    "Good evening. It''s a pleasure to meet you Uncle Liam." Stella politely nodded.


    "Truth to be told kid, the honor is all mine." He gave her a warm smile. "It''s good that you finally found someone boy." He said giving Adam a pat on his shoulder.


    Rachel watched their interactions quietly as she stood by the door. She clenched her fists tightly, her nails digging in her palms. She really wanted to throw something at her and she would have by now if it wasn''t for her father.


    ''Enjoy while you can slut, before I make him mine.'' She thought to herself, gritting her teeth in anger. Giving them another glance, she made her way out of the room.


    "Let''s go to the dining room. Rachel will join us there." Liam said to them.


    All three of them headed to the dining room which was more like a hall, with Liam guiding the couple. Though Adam knew the way like the back of his hand but he walked slowly next to Stella with a hand resting at her lower back.


    They settled down on the table where Liam sat on the head chair with Adam sitting on his left and Stella sat next to him.


    Liam kept his eyes on the girl, taking in small details about her. He couldn''t control himself anymore and finally chose to ask her the question which has been bothering him since he first saw the girl.


    "Stella? How are you related to Rosaline?"

 Chapter 61 - Dinner (2)

    "Stella? How are you related to Rosaline?"


    "How do you know her?" Stella replied with a question of her own, her eyebrows furrowed in confusion.


    "You haven''t answered my question kid. How are you related to her?" Liam repeated his question.


    "What''s going on?" Adam asked looking at the other two people. "Who''s Rosaline?" Adam asked looking at Stella.


    "She¡­ She was my mother." Stella replied meekly, her eyes still fixed on Liam. "How do you know her name?" Stella asked Liam once again.


    "You resemble her a lot. She used to look just like you when we were in college." Liam replied with a fond smile on his face.


    "You knew Stella''s Mom?" Adam asked him with a baffled expression.


    "Not just her mother, I also knew her father back in the day." Liam replied with a faint smile on his face as his mind drifted back to his college days.


    "What!" Stella exclaimed. "You knew both of my parents?" She asked him with her eyes widened in shock.


    "Yeah! They were one of the on-campus famous couples. Moreover, we were good friends. Your parents and me and Martha, my wife, always used to hang out together." He replied.


    "Woah! So you guys were like really close friends." Adam interrupted him.


    "Yeah! We were like a gang, always hanging out together." Liam replied fondly. "Oh, and guess who else was with us?" He asked looking intently at Adam.


    Adam narrowed his eyes at him. "No way." He shook his head sideways with his mouth agape.


    Liam nodded slightly as if agreeing with his thoughts.


    "So, the other couple that you use to tell me about were Stella''s parents?" Adam asked him to which he nodded again.


    "Umm.. Am I missing something here?" Stella spoke up, not following where the story was going.


    "There were two more people in our gang Stella. They were a couple as well. They were Adam''s parents." Liam explained it to her. "All six of us were like inseparable since the first year of our college. We were like the power couples of the campus."


    "You mean my parents knew Adam''s parents." She questioned him which was more like a statement, only to get a nod from him in response.


    "The world sure is a small place." She said looking at Adam.


    "It sure is." Both Adam and Liam spoke in unison.


    "The last time we met your parents was when your mother gave birth to you. We even came bearing gifts." Liam fondly spoke to Stella as a picture of a tiny baby girl popped into his mind who was crying nonstop. "But soon after you were born, they suddenly moved out of the city without informing us, and we lost contact after that. Both me and Paul tried to look for them, but no matter what, we couldn''t find them." He continued with a sad smile.


    "It wasn''t until five years back that we finally managed to get hold on a news about them. But we were too late. I am sorry kid." Liam looked at Stella with teary eyes. "Me and Paul tried to look for you as the news only stated about their death, but we couldn''t find you, no matter how hard we tried. I didn''t give up on the search even after Paul died."


    "Why would you search for her?" Adam interrupted him.


    "How can I let my god-daughter face the world all alone? The search is still on, but I will call it off now since I have found you." He replied wiping a tear that has escaped his eyes.


    "I am your god-daughter?" Stella was utterly baffled.


    "Not only mine. You were our god-daughter. The three of us were your god-parents. Ethan and Rosaline chose us to be your god-parents the day they found out about your existence sweety. Everyone was so happy that day. But we missed Carolyn a lot that day." He replied to her as his eyes teared up again thinking about his best friends.


    "She was your Mom, right?" Stella asked shifting her eyes to Adam.


    "Yeah! She died giving birth to me." Adam replied softly.


    "I am so sorry Adam." Stella said softly squeezing his hand.


    "You don''t have to be sorry." Adam replied giving her a soft smile.


    "We threw a surprise baby shower for your mother." Liam spoke up after a minute. "Guess who was there other than the three of us?" He asked Stella.


    "Who?" Stella replied with a question of her own.


    "Your boyfriend." Liam replied with a grin.


    "What?"


    "What?"


    Both Stella and Adam spoke up at the same time. They turned their heads to look at each other and then looked back at Liam.


    "Yes, your boyfriend was there as well. He was around four years old at that time." Liam chuckled looking at the dumbstruck couple sitting beside him.

 Chapter 62 - Dinner (3)

    "I am so glad that I am finally able to see you safe and sound with my own eyes Stella." Liam continued. "If you ever need anything, like anything at all, ask me right away without any hesitation."


    Stella nodded and gave him a soft smile. "Thank you."


    "Hey, but that''s my job. She won''t be asking you if she needs anything." Adam interrupted them with an annoyed look on his face. "I am the one she will be asking to."


    "And why is that?" Liam asked Adam as he narrowed his eyes at him.


    "Because I am the boyfriend." Adam replied smugly.


    "And I am the god-father." Liam added with a smirk. "Can you beat that?" He asked him haughtily.


    "No." Adam murmured under his breath as he pursed his lips in annoyance.


    "Calm down, both of you." Stella interrupted their childish banter. "If I need anything, I will just ask both of you." She continued after getting their attention making them smile in return.


    Just as Liam was about to continue, Rachel entered the dining room. "I am not done talking to you kid. We will continue this talk later." He spoke softly to which Adam and Stella nodded.


    He knew that his daughter didn''t like Stella for some reason. He had seen the look in her eyes when she had noticed Stella standing in the living room earlier, and the way she had stormed out of the room when Adam had introduced her to him. He had a hunch that telling Rachel about Stella being his god-daughter wouldn''t do any good. So, he decided to keep the news to himself.


    Rachel sat down on the empty chair, next to her father and opposite to Adam.


    "So, how are you Adam?" She asked looking at Adam.


    "I am fine. How are you?" Adam politely replied.


    "I am alright too. I am sorry that I didn''t meet you after that day, I have had a busy routine these past days." She started talking to him, ignoring Stella completely. "Though I am not taking any projects that involves me going out of the country, there are still quite a lot here that I need to deal with. You know being an A-list celebrity isn''t an easy job." She continued with a smug expression on her face.


    Even Stella could tell that she was ignoring her and looking down on her deliberately, not that she cared.


    Soon the butler came in, followed by a number of maids, each holding a dish. After putting down the dishes on the dining table, they quietly left the room except for the old butler. He poured some wine I''m everyone''s glass before leaving the room.


    They quietly ate their food except for Rachel who tried to make a small chat with Adam every now and then only to get a few nods in reply.


    Adam somehow knew what she was up to after the little stunt that she had pulled off in his office the last time she came, so he didn''t bother paying her much of his attention. More importantly, he didn''t want Stella to misunderstand him once again, especially not when their relationship was going so smoothly.


    After dinner they went back to the living room and chatted for a while. Well, Liam and Adam talked about some business as Stella sat quietly next to Adam with her head leaning against his shoulder. She would nod once in a while listening to their conversation. Whereas, Rachel sat next to her father, sending death glares at Stella, which were completely ignored by the latter.


    A yawn escaped Stella''s mouth which she tried to hide behind her palm but Adam still noticed it.


    "We should go now." Adam spoke up looking at his watch. "Thank you so much for dinner." He continued.


    "It''s alright boy. The pleasure was actually mine. You know what I mean." Liam replied looking at the couple. "You kids are always welcome here." He added, hinting Stella that she could always come here.


    "We know that." Adam said as he stood up followed by Stella.


    Liam walked them to the car that was parked in the driveway. He hugged Stella. "Look after yourself kid. And if he ever bullies you, just let me. I will kick his ass for you." He whispered softly next to her ear, but Adam still heard it and scoffed.


    "I need to have a word with Adam, you should get inside." He asked Stella as he let her go. Stella nodded and sat inside the car.


    "You need to look after her boy. If your Dad and I weren''t able to track her parents for almost fifteen years, then it''s not that simple as it seems. Take good care of her." Liam spoke up, keeping his voice low so that only Adam could hear him.


    Adam nodded in response. "I surely will. We''ll talk about it in detail later on."


    Liam patted his shoulder as he nodded his head.


    "Good night Adam. Take care of yourself." Rachel spoke up as she saw Adam going around the car to the driver''s side.


    "Same to you Rachel." He replied politely with a poker face.


    Adam sat in the driver''s seat and drove away after after turning on the ignition.

 Chapter 63 - Stop Right There

    "Stop right there young lady." Liam stopped Rachel as she was heading upstairs to her room.


    "Yes Dad?" She asked stopping in her tracks.


    "Come here. I need to talk to you about something." He asked her to which she complied.


    "What was that?" He asked her when she was standing right before him.


    "What---" She was interrupted by him as soon as she opened her mouth.


    "Don''t bother denying and lie to me sweety. I can tell when you lie to me. I saw what you were doing there earlier. My question is why. Why did you do that?" He asked her softly.


    "How can she take my place?" Rachel yelled in reply. "How can she just come out of nowhere and stand next to him Dad? I have grown up with Adam. We know each other since we were kids."


    "She is not taking anyone''s place. You are right that you know Adam since you guys were kids. But that''s all. You guys are childhood friends. Stella is Adam''s girlfriend, and he has feelings for her. I have never seen the boy this happy and so caring towards someone." Liam replied softly as he patted her head.


    "She doesn''t deserve Adam, only I can stand next to him and I will have that place sooner or later Dad. I have feelings for him too." She retorted back. "She was just a secretary. How did she end up being his girlfriend? I don''t even know what ways she used to get to that position so that she could seduce him. That slut¡­."


    "Stop right there." Liam interrupted her as he tried to control his anger. "She isn''t like that. And you don''t even know her to begin with Rachel."


    "But didn''t you see how Adam was ignoring me today because of her." She snapped back at him.


    "He isn''t a talkative fellow and you know that too." Liam replied.


    "I don''t know anything. I will take back what''s mine." Rachel yelled stomping her foot on the ground and turned around to leave.


    "Rachel! We aren''t done talking. Rachel, stop..." Liam called her a couple of times only to get ignored by her.


    Once she was out of his sight, he heaved out a tired sigh. He knew for a fact that she wasn''t a bad person. She was a soft hearted girl who do anything to help someone. But all of it changed a few years back. Entering in the entertainment industry at a young age didn''t do her any good. She gave up on her old friends and her new friend circle only consisted of those high class socialites and celebrities. Along the years, her personality changed drastically. He was worried for her but he didn''t know what to do. At least Martha knew how to handle the new Rachel but after she passed away, he has been at a loss.


    "I wish you were here Martha." He murmured under his breath as he headed towards his own room.


    ---------------------------


    Adam was knocking on her room''s door but didn''t hear anything in reply.


    Twenty minutes earlier,


    After changing into some casual wear he thought about the things Liam had told him. He was feeling restless, so he made his way to the kitchen and brew two cups of coffee. Taking them he made his way back to her room.


    Now, there he was, standing before the door and knocking it with his foot as his hands were busy holding the cups. He was having a feeling that she might need his support at the moment. But to his bad luck, he didn''t hear a single reply. After knocking for a minute more, he headed upstairs after getting no response. He knew that Stella wasn''t a heavy sleeper and would have woken up by now because of his continuous knocking. It could only mean one thing, she wasn''t in her room. Adam had a fair idea of where she might be, the rooftop.


    There he saw her, standing alone in the dark, leaning over the back railings. She was looking up at the midnight sky. Since it was a cloudy night, one can not see the stars and the moon would peek out every now and then.


    He slowly walked up to her with soft steps as not to startle her. Placing the cups on the wooden table that was close to where she was standing, he made his way to her.


    "Baby?" He softly murmured wrapping his arms around her.


    Stella came out of her daze as she sensed a familiar scent around her followed by a soft mellow voice as a pair of strong arms wrapped around her.


    She turned around to face him with his arms still wrapped around her. She buried her face in his chest and hugged him back tightly.

 Chapter 64 - Not Now, Not Ever

    "Adam?" Stella murmured under her breath, her face still buried in his chest.


    "Yes sweetheart?" Adam replied rubbing her back softly.


    "You won''t leave me, right?" She asked clutching on to his t-shirt tighter.


    "Of course I won''t. Not now, not ever." Adam replied softly trying to ease her worries.


    "Promise?" Stella looked up tilting her head slightly back.


    "I promise." He replied as he stared back into her hazel eyes.


    Stella gave him a hearty smile in return and hugged him tighter.


    "I brought you some coffee. Would you like to have it?" Adam asked pointing at the table that was close to where they were standing.


    "Yeah! Sure." Stella nodded.


    Adam sat down in a chair and just before Stella could pickup her cup, he tugged her hand hard, making her fall on his lap. Before she could move, he wrapped his arms around her holding her in place.


    "Just sit here." He said with a mischievous smile.


    "Adam!" She smacked him hard on his chest.


    "No one''s here except for us sweetheart." Adam tried to reason with her. He wanted nothing more than to keep her in his arms at the moment. "Pretty please." Adam gave her a pitiful look.


    "Okay." Stella agreed to him reluctantly.


    They sat there in silence as they sipped on their coffees, with Stella leaning her back against his rock hard chest. None of them talk to the other, but the silence between them wasn''t awkward, but rather a peaceful one.


    --------------------------


    Next day at the office,


    Stella and Adam were having their lunch peacefully in his office when the door suddenly opened and Liam walked in, followed by Bella.


    "Hello. What''s going on in here?" Liam spoke up bringing their attention to him.


    "I am so sorry Sir. I tried to stop him but he didn''t listen to me." Bella apologized to Adam.


    "It''s alright Bella. You can leave." Adam replied to her politely to which she nodded and left.


    "What is it now? Didn''t you have enough chat with your god-daughter yesterday?" Adam gave him an eye roll as he sat on the single couch next to them.


    "I was going through some old pictures and found something good among them. Thought you guys may want to see it." He replied taking out a picture from his coat''s inner pocket.


    Adam took the picture from him, his eyes widening in shock as soon as they landed on it.


    It was a picture of his younger self, around four or five years old. He was kissing a small baby bump of a woman who was patting his head. The shocking thing was the woman''s facial features which resembled to Stella''s around seventy to eighty percent, especially her eyes.


    He turned his head to his right to look at Stella, who was already looking at the picture with her eyes almost popping out of their sockets.


    "That''s my M-M-Mom." Stella spoke up after a while, raising her head to look at Liam.


    "Yes." Liam nodded with a sad smile. "And that boy is¡­" He continued but Adam interrupted him.


    "Me." He spoke with a baffled expression on his face. "I am going to frame this one and hang it up in my room." Adam continued after recovering from his earlier shock.


    "I want a copy of it as well." Stella spoke up.


    "No, you aren''t getting one. Whenever you feel like seeing it, you can just come to my room sweetheart." Adam declined her request right away.


    "But¡­" She tried to speak up but Adam shook his head, not wanting to give in her request.


    "You guys can fight all you want to after I leave. There''s one more thing that I needed to tell you guys." Liam interrupted the two adults who were arguing like two children. "Before your Dad found your Mum, he was after Stella''s mother." Liam continued after getting their attention.


    "What?"


    "What?"


    Both Stella and Adam shouted at the top of their lungs.


    Liam chuckled at their reaction and continued. "He was trying to make her agree to be his girlfriend but Rosaline declined him continuously. He didn''t give up until she said yes to Ethan. His expressions were quite funny when he came to know about it. It was actually a bet and the poor guy lost it pretty badly."


    Listening to him both Adam and Stella heaved out of sigh of relief.


    "Thank God, it was just a bet." Adam spoke up. "Otherwise¡­" He didn''t even want to complete his sentence.


    "Your father was kind of a play boy before he met your mother. She was a transfer student. He fell in love with her right away." Liam smiled remembering the old times. "I am going to go now, you guys continue with your lunch." He spoke and made his way to the door without even paying any heed to the couple who was calling him to join them.

 Chapter 65 - We Will Take It Slow

    After Liam left the couple on their own, they continued with their lunch, of course not before Adam tucked the picture carefully inside his coat''s inner pocket, close to his heart, as he had a goofy smile on his face.


    They enjoyed the rest of their lunch in harmony, unbeknownst of the storm that was going to come their way.


    -------------------------


    At some presidential suite of seven star hotel, a girl stormed in with a scowl on her face.


    "How long are you going to wait?" She yelled at the black haired man who was currently having sex with a dark brown haired girl in the four poster bed.


    Even after he heard her shouting at him, he didn''t pay her any heed and kept thrusting himself in and out until he finally found his release.


    After getting done with the girl, he asked her to leave the room to which she obliged after picking up her clothes from the floor.


    "Just because you have the key card to my room, doesn''t mean you can bust in whenever you like." He said getting up from the bed. "I will hear what you have to say in a while." He shut her up before she could say anything in return as he walked towards the bathroom in all his naked glory.


    "Alright." Rachel could only agree to him as she knew he wasn''t someone to be messed with. Her eyes travelled down to naked butt and she licked her bottom lip thinking about how she might be able to get a taste of him tonight.


    An idea popped up in her mind after he had entered the bathroom. She could hear the shower running as she made her way towards the closet.


    Twenty minutes later, the man came out with a white towel wrapped around his waist, hanging low. His eyes fell onto the four poster bed where the sheets have been and a blonde haired girl laid down wearing a completely see through black negligee with nothing underneath.


    His lips curled up into a devilish smirk as he felt heat travelling down to his lower abdomen. Like a hungry wolf, he made his way towards the bed with slow steps.


    ----------------------------


    *PG 18+ CONTENT AHEAD! Under 18 readers and those who aren''t comfortable with it can continue after the dotted line.*


    He climbed over the girl slowly as she looked back at him with a heated expression. He could feel her eyes traveling down to his crotch where a bulge was evident now. His eyes travelled down to her assets when he was finally hovering over her.


    In one swift motion, he tore apart the negligee which was now lying somewhere on the floor. He took one of her nipples in his mouth, sucking on it hard while he played with the other with his hand. After playing with it for a while, he shifted to the other, giving it the same amount of attention.


    Out of all things, he knew for sure that he was good at pleasing girls, probably the best. As he played with her boobs, his free hand travelled down to her navel and further below. A moan escaped her mouth as he thrusted his two fingers inside her. He could feel her wetness on his fingers which made him pleased with himself.


    Rachel grabbed the sheets tightly as he thrusted his finger in and out of her, going deeper with each thrust. He could feel her insides clenching around his fingers as she neared her climax.


    Rachel could feel some fluid flowing out of her down there. Before she could even recover from her ecstasy, he thrusted his hardened member inside her taking her by surprise.


    He pumped himself in and out of her at a fast pace she laid under him clutching onto his broad muscular shoulders, moaning and calling out his name. Her insides clenched around him as she was close to her climax and finally found her release followed by him.


    ----------------------------


    Lying on top of her, he tried to control his breath just like she was. After controlling his breathing, he made a beeline to the bathroom, leaving her by herself. He came out after freshening up. The hotel staff had already changed the bedsheets. Whereas Rachel was lying down the bed, dressed in a nightgown. She knew how much he hated uncleanliness. That''s why she had taken a shower in the bathroom that was in the next room.


    He laid down next to her. "What was it that you were yelling about?" He asked her with a bored expression.


    "How long are you going to take to separate them? I cannot stand the sight of them being all lovey-dovey before me." She replied with an unpleasant expression on her face.


    "What''s the hurry? We will take it slow. One step at a time." He replied picking up a picture and lighter from the bedside table next to him.


    "I will drag them apart. No matter how hard it is and how long it takes to me achieve my goal." He replied with a sinister smile on his face as he lit the picture on fire.

 Chapter 66 - Williamsons Tech.

    Two days later, Adam called Stella to his office. She came over after a while and looked at the idiotic man who was busy going through some papers with a goofy smile on his face. He didn''t even notice that she had come.


    Going around his office desk with quiet and slow steps, Stella hugged him from behind, startling the poor guy. He relaxed a bit when he recognized the familiar vanilla scent around him.


    "You scared me for a second there." He said tilting his head to the side so that he could see her face clearly.


    "And you didn''t even know when I came in. That''s definitely a first. What are you so busy with?" She asked as she played with the lapels of his coat.


    "Well, I have got some good news to share with you." He said as he moved his swiveling chair around. He held her waist tightly and tugged her body towards him, making her fall on his lap and turning the chair


    "Adam!" Stella squealed in surprise. "What is it with you and making me sit on your lap these days?" She asked him, smacking his shoulder softly as a faint blush spread over her fair cheeks.


    "I like you being close to me." He said settling his chin over her shoulder as he gave her an innocent look.


    "Fine!" Stella raised her hands up in the air in defeat. How could she be mad at him? Specially when he gave her that innocent pitiful look as if she was asking for the only candy from a three year old kid.


    "What is the news that you wanted to share with me?" She continued remembering why he had asked her to come over.


    "Coming to that. Have you heard about  Williamson''s Tech.?" He asked her as he toyed with her earring that was dangling down her earlobe.


    "Yeah! Who hasn''t? They are the leading technological company of the country." She replied.


    "Well guess what? I finally have the chance to strike a deal with them. I have been trying to get in touch with the President of the company for the last two years but didn''t have any success. They are picky with the companies they work with. But now, they agreed to work with Levinson''s Corp. This way our company can set foot into the technological industry and they are the best to work with." Adam explained it to her.


    "But why did they agree to work with you out of nowhere?" Stella could feel something wasn''t right. "I didn''t mean it that way. You said you have been trying to get in touch with the President for the last two years, but didn''t get any success in doing so. Why would they suddenly agree to work with you?"


    "I don''t know. The President''s secretary called me earlier in the day. She said that they would love to work it with us." Adam shrugged it off. "May be they realized that working with us is beneficial for them as well."


    "May be. What about the contract?" She asked him.


    "There it is." He replied pointing at the table. "It was sent earlier today. I was just going through it."


    "What! They sure are in a hurry to work with your company." Stella said as her gaze landed on the papers placed on his office desk.


    "Looks like it." He nodded.


    "Just be careful. I am having a bad feeling about this." Stella looked at him with a worried expression.


    "What are you worried about?" He asked caressing her face.


    "For a big company like them, it''s not normal to approach some other company just because they want to work with them. Levinson''s Corp. is a big name but it doesn''t deal with technological industry. For them to be so eager to work with a company that wants to branch out in a field they haven''t worked in before, it doesn''t feel right to me." She looked into his gray eyes that were already looking back at her.


    "Nothing will happen to the company even if make zero profit from this collaboration." He assured her to which she shook her head.


    "It''s not the company I am worried about." She replied. "The President of Williamson''s Tech. is known for his shady personality. I am just worried that..." She couldn''t bring herself to complete the sentence.


    "Hey, hey, hey. Nothing will happen to me either babygirl. I give you my word." Adam cupped her face as he placed a lingering kiss on her forehead.


    "But how do you know so much about the President? I haven''t heard a single bad word about him, not from anyone in the business world and not even from the press." Adam gave her a questioning look.


    Heaving out a long sigh, she opened her mouth as she looked at the papers lying on his desk.

 Chapter 67 - The Sound Of My Heart Breaking

    Her mind took her down the memory lane. Before she joined Levinson''s Corp., she worked for a renowned investment firm. Her ex-boss, Albert, had somehow made a deal with Williamson''s Tech. He invested in their upcoming project, not that they needed it. A week before the project came to an end, she had left the firm already. After meeting that sleazeball again in the event that day, she looked into the firm''s statistics the very next day, only to find them exactly the same before she had left.


    What confused her more was how could their net worth was the same as before working with them? She had seen the contract with her own eyes, and according to it, their net worth should have been at least doubled if not tripled. She knew for a fact that the project was a successful one because she had seen stats related to it. But how did his ex-boss''s firm didn''t even make a single penny from it. There was no loss, but there was no profit either. She couldn''t wrap her head around it.


    After recalling the entire thing to Adam, she gave him a worried look. "That is why I am worried."


    "You have a point. I know about that project, they launched a new product in the market that caused a hype, especially among the youngsters. If what you are saying is true then something must have gone wrong. I will look into the matter ad go through the contract thoroughly." He nodded his head in agreement. "In fact, you should have a look at the contract yourself."


    "It''s alright. I trust your instincts. Maybe I am just being too paranoid. Do what you feel like doing. Just be careful." She said stroking her thumb over his jawline.


    "I will be." Adam gave her an assuring smile.


    "I should head back now." Stella said as she tried to get up from his lap.


    "No! Stay." Adam made his grip slightly tighter around her waist, careful enough as not to hurt her.


    "But it''s inappropriate." She retorted back at his childish behavior.


    "I don''t care." He replied, unwilling to let go of her.


    "But I do. I don''t want your staff to think bad about you." Stella tapped on his forehead as if trying to get some sense into it. "I won''t be eating lunch and dinner with you today if you don''t let me go now." She threatened him knowing well that it would definitely work on the guy.


    "Alright. You can leave." Adam replied as he withdrew his hands back. He looked like a puppy whose owner had left him alone by a road in an unknown neighborhood.


    Stella chuckled at his expressions as she got up from his lap. After tidying her clothes, she cupped his face. "Behave." She said a single word before giving him a peck on his lips and made her way to the door before he could even react to it.


    When Adam came out of his daze, Stella had already left the office. Slowly a smile crept up on his face as recalled her soft peck. It was the first time she had kissed him on her own, though it was just a peck, but it still counted.


    With a soft smile on his face Adam buried himself in work.


    ------------------------


    Saturday morning,


    Stella and Adam were having their breakfast when the heard someone coming in the dining room. Usually, no one was allowed to interrupt them unless they were called. And it was usually the old butler Adam would call over if they needed anything.


    They turned their head towards the entrance of the room only to find Blake coming in dressed up in his usual black attire. He had a playful smile on his face which he usually had.


    "You guys are having breakfast without me. So mean of you guys." He said taking a seat next to Adam.


    "It''s not like you told me that you were coming over." Adam scoffed.


    "You mean if I had done that, you guys would have waited for me." Blake said as his smile widened.


    "No." Adam replied as he continued eating his breakfast. His response made Stella chuckle.


    "Ouch! Did you just hear that?" Blake asked with a pitiful expression.


    "Heard what?" Stella asked him.


    "The sound of my heart breaking." He said dramatically clutching the left side of his chest.


    Stella laughed at his remark. "You are funny." She said giving him a thumbs up to which he shrugged.


    "My sister''s outside waiting for you in her car. She wants to take you out for shopping." Blake spoke up.


    "You should go." Adam interrupted before she could reply. "She will probably take you to her workplace." He continued.


    "Alright." Stella said as she hurriedly finished her breakfast and headed upstairs to change her clothes.

 Chapter 68 - SPARKLE

    After seeing Stella off Adam quietly made his way to the study room, followed by Blake. Once they were in, he locked the door so that no one could bother them, not that someone would.


    "What is it?" Adam asked him taking a seat on the couch.


    "How do you know I wanted to talk to you?" Blake asked him as he sat down next to him.


    "For someone who loves his sleep more than anything in the world, you sure woke up early today. And even dragged your sister out so that she could take Stella somewhere out." Adam replied.


    "Yeah! So getting to the main point. The lead was a dead end." Blake said leaning hi back against the couch.


    "What do you mean the lead was a dead end?" Adam asked him gritting his teeth.


    "We finally found the man in those pictures, but not alive. My men found it suspicious when he didn''t leave the motel room he was staying in for two days. So, they broke in but only found his body. He was already dead." Blake explained it to him slowly. He could feel the air around Adam getting chillier by every passing second.


    "Did you find anything else in his room?" Adam asked, his hands clenched into fists as he tried to control his anger.


    "No. Other than his own belongings, we didn''t find anything else. No traces of some other person in the room, or some physical struggle. Nothing at all." Blake replied.


    "Great!" Adam exclaimed as he threw a punch on the table before him.


    "Hey man! Take it easy. There''s no need to get so worked up. You can just keep her here with yourself if you want to protect her. You guys are in a relationship, so I don''t think she will mind staying here." Blake suggested, giving him a pat on his shoulder.


    "Do you think it''s that easy?" Adam scoffed.


    "Maybe not. But I know you, you will definitely find a way." Blake replied with a grin. "Look man. We don''t even know who exactly is behind this. Keeping her with you here, is the best option we have to keep her protected." He continued.


    "I will find a way." Adam heaved out a tired sigh. Making her agree to stay with him for the long term, wouldn''t be an easy task for him.


    -------------------------


    In a high-end commercial district,


    Stella followed Katherine closely as she stepped into a clothing outlet. Two of the four walls were made entirely of glass where a number of mannequins were placed sporting some fancy clothes for both males and females. On the top of one of the two glass walls, one could see ''SPARKLE'' written in cursive writing, where each letter was carved out of high quality wood and had a little amount of golden dust brushed over them.


    Stella was simply awestruck when she stepped inside the store. The interior of the place was in no way less than it''s exterior. It gave you a classy yet chic vibe. The salespersons were all dressed in black, busy tending to the needs of the customers with utmost professionalism.


    "I love this place." Stella spoke up after a while, still trying to take in the surroundings.


    "You do! Then it''s my pleasure sweety." Katherine replied with a wide grin on her face.


    "Wait! Is this your store?" Stella asked her with a bewildered expression.


    "Yeah!" She nodded in response. "This the only outlet in the city. If anyone wants to buy my brand, they have to come here." She continued to which Stella nodded.


    "Let me give a tour of the place. Grab anything you like, it''s on me." Katherine said dragging her to the racks.


    Three hours later, Katherine dropped Stella back with a bunch of shopping bags with sparkle written on them.


    "Won''t you come inside?" Stella asked her when she sat back in her car after helping her out with the bags.


    "Nope. Though I want to, but I am busy and have something to deal with." Katherine replied and drove away after giving her a flying kiss.


    Before Stella could pick up the bags, the old butter came out with two servants and asked them to help her with the bags.


    "Just place them in my room." Stella added softly. "Except for this one. I will take it myself. Thank you." She said taking one bag back from the servant.


    "Uncle Rob? Do you have any idea where I can find Adam?" She politely asked the old butler after the two servants had left.


    "Young Master is in his study." The old butler replied.


    "Blake''s still here?" She asked him.


    "No, he left half an hour later after you did." The old butler replied.


    "Alright! Thank you." She made a beeline toward Adam''s study after thanking the old butler.

 Chapter 69 - You Can Do As You Please

    "Adam!" She called him as she entered the study only to find him going through some papers.


    "Why do you have to work during the weekend too?" She pursed her lips as she made her way towards him.


    "I was getting bored, so I thought why not do some work." He replied with a shrug.


    "I brought something for you." Stella showed him the shopping bag with a smile. She made her way towards him.


    Once she was next to him she extended her hand. "There you go." She said passing him the bag as she leaned against his study table.


    "Katherine got me a bunch of dresses both formal and casual, even though I declined her many times but she didn''t listen to me. So I had no choice but to give in. I thought I could at least pay for them but she didn''t let me." She rambled as he took out a shirt from the bag. "But this one''s from me. I had to argue with her for ten minutes before she let me pay for it." She added pointing to the shirt in his hand.


    It was a dark maroon button down shirt. On first glance one would find it very simple but if you observe carefully you could see that it''s buttons were not normal black ones but rather made of black crystals.


    "Do you like it?" Stella asked him with hopeful eyes.


    "I-I do." Adam gave her soft smile in return.


    "I know you probably don''t wear dress shirts of this color but I loved this one as soon as my eyes landed on it. And I knew it will look good on you." Stella said giving her a toothy smile.


    "But this isn''t something cheap." Adam added as he traced his finger on a button.


    "Yeah! But It''s not like that I can''t afford it Adam." Stella said with a pout.


    "You didn''t have to spend on me." Adam gave her a sad smile. "Come here." He opened his arms after putting the shirt back into the shopping bag.


    Stella jumped right into his arms, wrapping her arms around his neck. Adam held her waist instantly, he wouldn''t like it if she fell and hurt herself. Stella was straddling him now with her knees on either side of his legs.


    "Thank you so much for the shirt. I love it." Adam spoke up as he rubbed her back softly. ''Just like I love you.'' He thought the latter to himself.


    His lips broke into a stupid grin as he realized what had he just thought.


    "I am glad that you like it." Stella hugged his neck tighter.


    "There''s something I need to talk to you about." Adam spoke after a while.


    "What is it?" Stella asked as she settled down in his lap, her head leaning against his shoulder where as her legs were dangling from one side of the chair.


    "I want you to stay with me." Adam spoke up as he played with the locks of her hairs.


    "I am already staying with you." Stella replied with a confused expression.


    "I know. But I want you to stay with me forever." He spoke up making her feel more confused.


    "The police couldn''t find the culprit so they closed the case saying it was just a normal break in. You can continue to live there if you want. But I don''t want you to. I want you to stay here with me. You already have a room of your own here. You have gotten used to my company as well." He continued after a pause.


    "How can I continue to live here Adam? I have to go back to my apartment sooner or later." Stella replied leaning back a bit so that she can look at his face.


    "So you won''t stay with me." Adam added turning his head away from her.


    "Adam?" Stella called him softly as she cupped his face and turned it towards her.


    "You are going to leave me alone." Adam pursed his lips.


    "I am not leaving you alone. We will still meet daily at the office, we can go out to places. I am just shifting back to my apartment." Stella tried to reason with the stubborn child before her.


    "But I won''t be able to have breakfast and dinner with you, I won''t be able to spend my nights with you on the rooftop or my weekends." Adam added with a sad expression.


    "I-I am sorry but I can''t stay here Adam." Stella spoke up softly, caressing his face.


    "Alright! The owner of the apartment said that you can shift back after four or five days. They will clean up the place and change all the locks." He replied as he helped her down from his lap.


    "You can do as you please." He added looking directly into her eyes before he headed out of the study.

 Chapter 70 - He Is Going To Be Upset

    "You can do as you please." He added looking directly into her eyes before he headed out of the study.


    Stella stood rooted to the ground even after he had left. She pouted as she stomped her foot on the ground.


    "And now he''s going to be upset." She thought out loud as she made her way to his room.


    "Adam?" She called his name knocking on the door of his room. "Adam?" After calling his name a couple of times and not getting any response, she turned around and made her way to her own room.


    She knew that he was in his room but was ignoring her deliberately. Lying down in her bed she stared at the ceiling where a small crystal chandelier was hanging down and was dimly lit, giving out a warm pale white lighting to its surroundings.


    Her mind was a mess right now. She knew she couldn''t prolong her stay at his place as she felt it wasn''t right to do so. But her mind was in a dilemma when she looked at his face and his expressions when she had said no.


    "Ughhhh!" She let out a frustrated groan. ''I don''t know what I should do. But I just can''t stand seeing him sad.'' She thought to herself.


    Later in the afternoon, she went down to the dining hall for lunch thinking that she might be able to see him and talk to him. But to her misery, she was the only one at the dining table.


    "Uncle Rob! Where''s Adam? Isn''t he going to have his lunch?" She asked the old butler when he was about to leave after serving her food.


    "Young Master said he will be having his lunch and dinner in his room." The old butler replied politely. He could sense that something wasn''t right when his Young Master had asked him to serve his lunch and dinner in his room. ''They are probably having a fight.'' He thought to himself and excused himself. He still had to serve lunch to his Young Master.


    -----------------------


    "Is there anything you want to say?" Adam asked him when he saw that he was still standing even after serving his food. It wasn''t like him.


    "Ms. Stella was asking for you earlier when I was serving her food." The old butler replied.


    "Okay! You can go now Uncle Rob." Adam gave him a soft smile. The old butler wanted to help the couple but he could only oblige to his Young Master.


    Stella decided to have her dinner alone in her room since she knew that Adam wouldn''t be showing up in the dining room.


    Just as she was about to finish her meal, there was a knock on her door. Thinking that it might be Adam, she sprinted towards the door and opened it.


    "Finally¡­.." Her words got stuck in her mouth when she saw the old butler standing in the hallway holding a tray in his hands having two coffee mugs placed on it.


    "Young Master is waiting for his coffee on the rooftop." The old butler said as he extended the tray towards her.


    Stella didn''t say anything for a while as she looked at the old butler with her eyes widened in shock.


    "Thank you so much." She thanked the old butler with a wide smile on her face after she came out of her daze as she took the tray from him.


    "It''s my pleasure." The old butler replied politely with a faint smile as he watched her retreating figure.


    -----------------------


    "I thought you were going to take forever." Adam spoke up sensing someone standing behind him. He was lying down on the grass with his eyes closed.


    Stella quietly walked next to him and sat down on the grass, placing the tray before her.


    As if sensing someone sitting next to him, Adam opened his eyes and turned his head to his left only to find a pair of hazel eyes staring back at him.


    "What are you doing here?" He asked turning his face away from her and closing his eyes again.


    "I brought you coffee." Stella replied still looking at him. She decided not to tell him that Uncle Rob has given it to her. She didn''t want the poor butler to get a scolding.


    "I just changed my mind. I don''t want to have some coffee." Adam replied, placing a hand on his his eyes as to block her view.


    "How long are you going to stay angry at me? You know I don''t like it." Stella added meekly.


    "I said I don''t want to have coffee anymore. You can leave." He spoke up without even looking at her.


    His eyebrows furrowed when he didn''t get any response from her. Before he could ask her once more to leave, he heard a sniffling sound which made his entire body freeze.


    ''Is she crying?'' He thought to himself. ''Crap! You took it too far Adam.'' He scolded himself. He threw all of his rationality out of the window when he heard more sniffling sounds and got up instantly.

 Chapter 71 - Will You Be My Date?

    As soon as he got up, his eyes fell on the girl next to him who was sniffling like a child with tears flowing down her cheeks.


    "Sweetheart! Why are you crying?" Adam asked her as he cupped her face with his palms. "I am sorry."


    Stella didn''t reply to him but her tears kept on flowing out of her eyes.


    "I am so sorry. I didn''t mean to hurt you." Adam apologized to her as he wiped her tears away with his thumbs.


    He wanted to punch himself in the face so badly at the moment. How could he make her cry like this?


    "Stella? Talk to me please. Say something, anything at all. Scold me all you want, but just don''t cry." He spoke up bringing her closer so that her head was now resting on his shoulder. He hugged her tightly.


    He patiently waited for her to stop crying as he rubbed her back trying to comfort her. Every now and then, he would ask her to stop crying.


    After five minutes or so, Stella was able to gather her emotions together and stopped crying. "You are mean." She spoke up in a choked voice.


    "Yes, I am mean. I am the big bad wolf." Adam agreed with her, his head bobbing.


    "How could you say I am leaving you alone here?" She asked him as she punched him lightly on his chest.


    "I am sorry. I shouldn''t have said that." Adam replied.


    "It''s just that I am not used to all of this Adam. I have never been in a relationship before. I never thought that I will be in a relationship with someone someday let alone staying at his place." She tried to explain her dilemma to him.


    "I just don''t know what to do." She continued after a while. "But no matter what, I don''t want to make you sad. I don''t like it. I like it when you smile."


    "I am not sad sweetheart. You can do whatever you want to. If you want to stay at your apartment, you can. I will just put some extra security measures there. It scares the living shit out of me whenever I think about what if you were there at that moment. I can''t lose you too." Adam interrupted her.


    "This place has always been just a place for me to stay after Dad left me. But since you are here, it feels like home to me. My home. With you gone, this place will be back to its old self. But if you want to go back, I won''t stop you. You were right. I will get to see you everyday. We can go out together on weekends. I will get used to it." He continued, placing a soft peck on her forehead.


    "No, you don''t have to get used to it." Stella withdrew from his hug.


    "I am not going anywhere. I am staying." She said cupping his face.


    "W-What?" Adam looked at her with his eyes popping out of their sockets. "What did you just say?" He couldn''t believe his ears.


    "I am staying here, with you." Stella replied as a soft smile crept up on her lips.


    "Say that again."


    "I am staying here Adam. I am not going back to my apartment." She replied as her smile grew wider.


    Adam dragged her back into his arms, hugging her tightly. "You don''t have any idea how happy it makes me."


    "I think I do." She replied as she patted his shoulder softly.


    "You really aren''t going anywhere." Adam asked her once more, he still couldn''t believe that she had agreed to stay with him.


    "Ask me one more time and I will change my decision." Stella couldn''t help but roll her eyes at the child who was hugging her, even though he couldn''t see it.


    "I won''t ask you again." Adam immediately replied.


    "I forgot to tell you something." Adam spoke up after a while as they were having their coffee. "There this auction tomorrow, I have to attend tomorrow night."


    "Oh!" Stella nodded as she took a sip of her coffee.


    "Will you be my date?" Adam asked her.


    Stella looked at him with a baffled expression.


    "I mean everyone is allowed to bring a plus one. So, I thought you could accompany me." Adam continued when he didn''t hear a reply from her.


    "Are you asking me to be your date for the event?" Stella asked him giving him a skeptical look.


    "Yeah." Adam nodded.


    "Sure." Stella replied giving him a soft smile. "You looked so scared as if I will turn you down."


    "Auctions can be pretty boring. I only attend the ones which are for a charitable cause." Adam replied.


    "Who did you take as your plus one in the past?" Stella asked him out of nowhere.


    "I always go alone to such events. But not anymore." He replied ruffling her tied up hairs only to get a pout in return.

 Chapter 72 - You Are Drooling

    Sunday evening,


    Stella came in barging through the door without even knocking with four dresses in her hands.


    "I can not decide which one to wear, you choose." She said pursing her lips. "Why aren''t you saying anything?" She asked when she didn''t hear a response.


    "Will..." The rest of her words got stuck inside her throat, her eyes widening with her mouth agape. She was opening and closing her like a goldfish, but nothing came out, not even a single word. She was flabbergasted by the sight before her.


    Adam had just gotten out of shower, his hairs dripping wet, when she barged inside his room as if it was her own, not that he would mind.


    He only had a white towel loosely wrapped around his lower half which was hanging low around his waist. Droplets of water could be seen running down his refined muscular chest to his lower abdomen. Stella gulped a mouthful of saliva enjoying the fine piece of man before her. He looked like a model who had just walked out of a magazine.


    Adam could feel her burning gaze on himself but instead of minding it, he was enjoying it. At least, all of those hours that he had spent in his gym finally paid off. He couldn''t be more proud of his body. He ran his fingers through his hairs, the action causing his muscles to flex. Stella licked her lower lip looking at his taut muscles.


    Adam made his way towards her, taking one step at a time. "You are drooling." He spoke up softly when he was standing just a foot away from her.


    His voice broke Stella out of her daze, and she finally shifted her eyes from his six packs. Looking at his face, she tried to say something, anything, but couldn''t.


    "You---You have a good body." She finally spoke up after a while.


    "That, I know. But thank you for the compliment." Adam chuckled at his little elf who was still busy eyeing his body.


    "You needed my help with something." Adam asked looking at the bunch of dresses in her hands.


    "I wanted to ask which abs should I wear today?" Stella replied finally breaking her eyes away.


    Adam raised an eyebrow at her question as he tried to control the laugh threatening to escape his lips. "I am sorry but I don''t see any abs in your hands."


    Stella furrowed her brows in confusion after hearing his reply. As realization dawned on her, her cheeks turned pink. ''You and your stupid mouth.'' She scolded herself internally.


    "I-I-I meant dress. Which dress should I wear today?" She asked giving him a wide smile.


    Adam took all the dresses from her and put them down on his bed next to each other. He gave all of them a look and picked up a peach dress and passed it to her. Before she could hold the dress, he grabbed her hand and pulled her towards him. Stella crashed right into his body. Before she could step back, he threw the dress back on the bed and held her close to him by his lower back with his one arm while the other one was still holding onto her hand.


    He placed her hand on his chest, holding it firmly there. "Why are you being so shy? This all yours baby." He murmured seductively next to her ear as he traced her hand on his chest.


    Stella could feel the blood rushing to her face, heating it up.


    "Open your eyes." Adam spoke softly when he saw her eyes shut. "Do what you were doing a while earlier sweetheart, watch me."


    Stella slowly opened her eyes to find a pair of gray eyes looking intently at her, burning with passion. She gulped a mouthful of saliva as her eyes trailed down to his broad shoulders then to his chest and lower down. She wanted to trace her fingers over those abdominal muscles so bad. Feeling her fingers twitch under his palm, Adam let go of her hand.


    After a minute or so, Adam felt her hand move, her fingertips grazing over his muscles, sending a tingling sensation under his skin. His lips broke into a smirk when he saw her licking her lower lip as her fingers traced his abdominal muscles. He could feel the blood rushing down to his pelvic region.


    Stella came out of her daze when she felt something hard poking her lower abdomen. It didn''t need a genius to know what it was. Her face turned crimson red as she pushed him away from her.


    Adam stumbled back a few steps. His hands instinctively move down to hold the towel in its place when he felt it slipping down.


    Stella''s face turned redder as she turned around and ran out of his room. She could hear the sound of his laughter even in the hallway as she headed to her room.

 Chapter 73 - Its Payback Time

    Taking in a couple of deep breaths, Stella tried to calm herself down as she leaned against the closed door. After she got her wayward thoughts in line, she held her head in hands realizing that she had forgotten the dresses in his room. She opened the door but closed it right away.


    ''Going back there isn''t a good idea.'' She nodded her head at her own thoughts. She had chosen those dresses because they were the least bold ones that Katherine had gotten her. The rest of them were a bit revealing, actually a lot. Heaving a sigh, she made her way to the walk-in closet to look for something that she could wear for the event.


    Her brows furrowed deeply as she was going through the rest of the dresses, one by one. Her eyes set on one of the dresses as she pursed her lips together. Her eyes brightened up as an idea popped up in her mind.


    ''It''s payback time.'' She thought to herself as an evil smirk appeared on her face.


    --------------------


    Two hours later, Stella headed downstairs after getting ready where Adam was waiting for her.


    Adam turned his head towards the stairs when he heard the sound of heels clicking against the floor.


    "You did take you sweeee¡­.." The rest of his words got stuck in his throat.


    There she was, wearing a dark red dress which was dragging on the floor as she was walking down the stairs taking her own sweet time. The dress hugged her body in the right places. The dress was supported by two spaghetti straps going over her shoulders. But the most distracting thing for Adam was the deep v-cut in the front of her dress which stopped below her navel, leaving her sternum and part of her abdomen exposed. Her hairs were tied up in a loose side bun leaving a few locks stray which were framing her face which was covered by a thin layer of makeup. But her lips, those luscious lips were looking more appealing to him in the bright red shade that matched her dress perfectly. Two golden loops were dangling down her earlobes.


    Adam gulped a mouthful of saliva when she stopped right before him.


    "You are drooling." She said with a wink as she sashayed past him.


    As she walked past him, she couldn''t help but notice that he was wearing the shirt that she had bought for him. He had paired it with a plain black coat and dress pants and black crystal cufflinks. He looked like some Vampire Lord specially with his silky black messy hair.


    Adam opened his mouth to say something in reply but before he could, his eyes landed on her back, half of which was exposed. He clenched his hands into fists trying to control his emotions as he followed her outside.


    Half an hour later, they arrived at a seven star hotel where the auction was being held. A waiter guided them towards the hall.


    Walking next to each other, the couple easily drew everyone''s attention to themselves. All the people there had their eyes locked on them.


    "What were you thinking?" Adam asked her gritting his teeth. All the men in the hall were eyeing his little elf with lust evident in their eyes. It was enough to make his blood boil in anger. No one could look at her like that, no one. Well, except for him.


    "What do you mean?" Stella replied to him with a question of her own, feigning innocence.


    "The dress." Adam narrowed his eyes at her. He could see through her tactics easily.


    "Don''t you like it?" Stella asked him, blinking a couple of times as a soft smile graced her lips.


    Leaning close to her ear, Adam whispered. "Oh! I love it baby. But I would love taking it off you more." His hand coming to rest at her lower back as he brought her closer. "I don''t like all these eyes on you sweetheart. Do you know how it feels when I see these pests looking at you like they are taking off your clothes in their minds?" Adam murmured next to her ear clenching his jaws.


    "Just like I feel when I see every single girl in the hall, eyeing you like they own you or something." Stella whispered back into his ear, her hands moving up from his abdomen slowly, stopping at the lapels of his coat. She traced her finger from the base of his ear to his collar bone which was visible as he had left the first two buttons undone.


    Adam''s lips broke into a smirk hearing her reply. "They don''t sweetheart." He said stepping back a bit making Stella pout. Before she could say anything he continued after a pause. "But you do."


    His reply made a warmth spread through her chest. She held the lapels of his coat with her hands as she tilted her face up. Yanking his lapels down, she brought his face closer to her own and placed a soft peck on his thin lips, taking him by surprise.


    Before he could react, she had already pulled away. "You just said I do." She added with a wink as her lips curled up in a mischievous smile.

 Chapter 74 - Rich People And Their Ways

    "Why do they have a dance floor here? Isn''t it just an auction?" Stella spoke as she took a sip of her wine as her eyes looked at the dancing floor where people were dancing in pairs to some soft music playing in the background. They were now standing by one of the high tables in the far back of the hall.


    "The auction will take place at some adjoining hall, this is just for the enjoyment of people." Adam replied as he looked at her.


    "Rich people and their ways." Stella commented shaking her head softly with her lips pursed.


    Hearing her remark Adam cleared his throat, bringing her attention back to him.


    Stella almost spilled out the wine in her mouth she just sipped as she heard him clearing his throat.


    "I-I-I¡­. You know what I mean?" Stella gave him an apologetic smile.


    Adam chuckled at her reaction. "I know." He said patting her head only to get a deathly glare from her.


    "Don''t mess my hair." She said swatting his hand away.


    "May I have a dance with my girlfriend if she doesn''t mind?" Adam asked her out of nowhere, extending his hand for her to hold.


    Though Stella wanted to decline since there were a lot of people around them, but looking at those gray eyes, she couldn''t bring herself to say no to him. Nodding her head slightly she put her hand into his extended one.


    Wrapping his fingers around the back of her hand, Adam guided her to the dance floor. He stopped in his tracks as he ushered a waiter and whispered something next to his ear and continued to head towards the dance floor with Stella in tow.


    Once they were in the centre of the dance floor, the lighting dimmed a bit and soft music started to play in the background.


    Adam placed one of his arms on her lower back while the other continued holding onto her hand. She brought her closer to him and started moving her to the music.


    "I met you in the dark, you lit me up


    You made me feel as though I was enough


    We danced the night away, we drank too much


    I held your hair back when


    You were throwing up


    Then you smiled over your shoulder


    For a minute, I was stone-cold sober


    I pulled you closer to my chest


    And you asked me to stay over


    I said, I already told ya


    I think that you should get some rest¡­"


    Adam brought her closer to him, there was no gap in between them. Stella could feel her heart flutter when she looked into his eyes which were looking back at her, filled with tenderness and emotions that she couldn''t comprehend. He continued moving their bodies to the song as he rested his forehead on hers, still gazing into those hazel eyes glowing brighter than the stars.


    "I knew I loved you then


    But you''d never know


    ''Cause I played it cool when I was scared of letting go


    I know I needed you


    But I never showed


    But I wanna stay with you until we''re grey and old "


    Adam sang along the line in his soft and husky voice. "But I wanna stay with you until we''re grey and old."


    Every single pair of eyes were now on the pair as they swayed along with the music. They were the only one dancing now as all of the other couples have stopped long before.


    "Just say you won''t let go


    Just say you won''t let go


    I''ll wake you up with some breakfast in bed


    I''ll bring you coffee with a kiss on your head


    And I''ll take the kids to school


    Wave them goodbye


    And I''ll thank my lucky stars for that night"


    Adam placed a soft a peck on her forehead as the song continued.


    "I wanna live with you


    Even when we''re ghosts


    ''Cause you were always there for me when I needed you most


    I''m gonna love you till


    My lungs give out


    I promise till death we part like in our vows


    So I wrote this song for you, now everybody knows


    Finally it''s just you and me till we''re grey and old


    Just say you won''t let go


    Just say you won''t let go


    Just say you won''t let go


    Oh, just say you won''t let go"


    Adam brought his lips closer to her ear when the song ended. "Just say you won''t let go." He whispered softly.


    Stella opened her lips to say something in response but the lights turned on again bringing them out of their daze as everyone applauded for them.


    Adam nodded in gratitude as he picked up Stella''s hand. Bringing it closer to his lips and placed a lingering kiss on the back of her hand.


    Adam sauntered back to their table along with Stella.


    "You were saying something back there before everyone else interrupted our moment." Adam reminded her causing her open and close her mouth a couple of times.


    "My, my. Who do we have here? I never knew that Mr. Adam Levinson could dance so well." A masculine voice interrupted the duo making them turn their heads to look at the owner of the voice.

 Chapter 75 - I Wish You Luck

    "My, my. Who do we have here? I never knew that Mr. Adam Levinson could dance so well." A masculine voice interrupted the duo making them turn their heads to look at the owner of the voice.


    Stella''s eyes landed on a tall man, almost as tall as Adam or may be he as an inch or two shorter than Adam, with muscular built and slightly bronzed skin walking towards them. He was wearing a light brown coat and pants with an off-white button down shirt with the first button left undone. The suit hugged his figure perfectly, enhancing his broad shoulders. He had the perfect figure like those male leads in novels. His dark brown leather boots clicking against the floor as he slowly walked towards them. His black hairs were unkempt where a few strands were hanging over this forehead. His obsidian black eyes shifted to Stella for a second before they went back to look at Adam. A lazy smile gracing his thin lips as he took a sip of his wine.


    "And I never knew that Mr. Taylor has started to attend auctions." Adam replied with a faint smile.


    "Well, you never no when one can find something valuable in these auctions. So, I thought why not give it a go. I may find something that I have been looking for some while." He replied leisurely, swirling his wine glass slowly as he extended his other hand towards Adam.


    "I wish you luck for it. I hope you find what you are looking for." Adam replied as he shook his extended hand. "Let me do the introductions." Adam said taking his hand back.


    "Mr. Taylor, meet Stella." He said gesturing towards her. "And Stella, meet Taylor Williamson, the President of Williamson''s Tech."


    "It''s a pleasure meeting you." Taylor spoke up as he extended his hand towards Stella which she hesitatingly took.


    "Same here, Mr. Taylor. I have heard so much about your company." She politely replied but her eyes widen in shock when Taylor placed a soft peck on the back of her hand.


    "I hope you don''t drink too much tonight and end up bumping into people." Taylor spoke up leaving her hand.


    His remark made both Stella and Adam frown.


    "You have met before." Adam spoke up before Stella could ask the same.


    "If bumping into each other when the other person is drunk counts, then yeah, you could say we have." He replied with a laid back expression.


    "You are the person I bumped into the other night." Stella finally spoke up, only to get a nod in response.


    Seeing Adam''s confused expression, she continued. "Blake''s party. When I was coming back from the powder room, I bumped into someone."


    "Oh! So, he''s the one you bumped into." Adam nodded as he recalled her drunken self telling him about it with an annoyed expression.


    Adam and Taylor continued to talk about business while Stella stood there quietly listening to their conversation, leaning her elbows on the table. Adam took out his phone from the inner pocket of his coat when he felt it vibrating. Seeing that it was Liam calling him, he excused himself.


    "I will be back in a minute or two." He whispered in Stella''s ear as he kissed in her cheek and headed out of the hall to find someplace quiet.


    "So Stella, Do you have a job?" Taylor asked her, trying to strike up a conversation with her.


    Stella nodded as she took a sip from her glass. Getting a questioning look from him she continued. "I am Adam''s assistant." She added truthfully.


    "I did not see that coming." Taylor replied with a shocked expression. "I thought you were just his partner for tonight." He continued.


    Stella gave him a polite smile in return.


    "So, you guys are a thing?" He asked with curiosity.


    Stella didn''t know how to reply to that and only shrugged her shoulders. She was internally scolding Adam. ''He could have just gone outside without kissing my cheek.''


    ''But he did see you dancing with him and that too quiet intimately.'' Her subconscious nagged at her.


    "Well, if you don''t want to tell me then I can''t force you to. It''s your personal matter. I was just being the curious cat that I am." He gave a toothy grin.


    Stella politely smiled taking a big sip of her drink. She didn''t want to continue talking to him because for some reason, he gave her a creepy feeling. She could only wish for Adam to come back sooner.

 Chapter 76 - Auction (1)

    Stella had emptied her wine glass already and grabbed a new one from the waiter who was passing by her table. She was tapping her foot against the floor in uneasiness. She wasn''t used to conversing with people, except for Adam, he was an exception.


    She would occasionally humm in response with a nod every now and then. She didn''t have a choice but could only reply to Taylor with a polite smile, who seemed to be enjoying their conversation which was more or less like a monologue. He was telling her about his company, everything about it. She politely smiled as he continued mentioning his achievements. Whereas, internally, she was yelling at the man before her. ''I don''t want to hear about you or your company.''


    What seemed like an eternity to Stella, Adam finally came back. She felt his presence before she could actually see him. She sighed inwardly with relief as she felt a familiar arm around her waist.


    "Sorry, it took me long." Adam spoke softly as he placed a kiss on the side of her head.


    "It''s alright." Stella gave him a soft smile in return.


    "Have you thought about the contract?" Taylor interrupted the duo.


    "I have. I am still going through the contract." Adam replied. Though he was lying and had already read the contract a couple of times, but Taylor didn''t have to know that.


    "It''s alright. Take your time." Taylor gave him a wide smile.


    A young lady who was dressed in a seductive black gown walked towards the trio and whispered softly next to Taylor''s ear.


    "Looks like I have to go now. Something cropped up at the company. You guys enjoy the rest of the event." Taylor added after the girl in black had left.


    "It was a pleasure meeting you both." He bid the couple goodbye and left the hall followed by the same girl.


    "Thank God, he''s gone." Stella muttered under her breath but Adam still caught on it.


    He cleared his throat to get the girl''s attention. When Stella turned her head to look at him, she saw him looking at her with a questioning look on his face.


    "He was talking, like non-stop. Even though I wasn''t reply much." She pouted.


    Adam smiled and tilted his head down to place a soft peck on her already pouty lips.


    "Let''s go." He said after kissing her.


    "Where?" Stella gave him a quizzical look.


    "Though I want to take you back to home and take this dress off you, let''s do with the auction first." Adam murmured seductively next to her ear.


    A faint blush spread through her cheeks as an image of Adam popped up in her mind with only a towel wrapped around his waist, covering his lower half.


    She cleared her throat, blinking her eyelids a couple of times to get the image out of her damn mind. Maybe I had enough of the wine for the day.


    They made their way towards the adjoining hall where a number of tables covered by black clothes were set with white chairs around them. There was a black bow tied around each chair and a vase with white lilly placed at the centre of the table.


    Adam and Stella sat at the far end. Adam ushered a waiter that was passing by them and picked up two glasses of red wine, one for himself and one for Stella.


    Stella gulped it down in two big sips. She placed the emptied glass on the table. She couldn''t shake the image from her mind and it kept popping up again and again. She grabbed the glass that was in Adam''s hand and gulped it down as well, emptying the content in one go.


    Adam looked at the girl next to him with his widened in shock.


    "Sweetheart? Are you okay?" Adam asked her, his voice full of concern.


    "Yes, I am okay." Stella replied, bobbing her head.


    "We can go home if you want." Adam added as he rubbed her back gently.


    "No, there''s no need for that." She replied to him, giving him a toothy smile.


    "Alright, but let me know if you feel any discomfort." Adam spoke up softly getting a nod from her in response.


    Soon the event started and the lights in the hall dimmed. The MC started giving the intro and explained the cause of the auction. All the money that would be raised tonight will go to different orphanages.


    The first item for the auction was brought on the stage which was a golden watch. The MC started to give the details of the watch to the audience along with the starting price of the bid.


    One after the other, a number of different items were brought on the stage but Adam didn''t raise his hand and participated in the bid for even once. He was waiting for the final item that was about to be auctioned off tonight.

 Chapter 77 - Auction (2)

    After a number of items were auctioned off, including watches, paintings, rings and jewelry which were once worn by the royal family members, the final item was brought on the stage.


    It was a choker style necklace which was around two fingers wide. There was a single large square shaped ruby in the center with two rows of crystal clear diamonds on either side of it with small oval shaped emeralds holding the two chains together, going around the neck of the mannequin. There was a drop shaped diamond dangling from the ruby.


    One could hear the gasps being escaped from everyone''s mouth as soon as the necklace was brought on the stage.


    The MC started to speak. "This beautiful necklace before you isn''t from some royal family. It was a family heirloom of a well distinguished family of our country. But around twenty years ago or so, for some reason, which none of us knows, the family disappeared from the grid, leaving their businesses to be handled by one of their relatives. Even today, we don''t know whether anyone from the family is alive or not."


    Adam''s eyes were set in Stella as she was on her third glass of wine now.


    The MC continued. "This beautiful piece before you, is the family heirloom of one the most renowned families of our country, The Martin family."


    -----------------------


    A while back,


    "What is it Uncle?" Adam spoke into the phone. He had excused himself when he saw the call was from Liam.


    "Are you still at the auction?" Liam asked in return.


    "Yes, I am. And you are taking up my time which I am supposed to be spending with Stella." Adam replied with an irritated voice.


    "Remember I told you about Stella''s parents." Liam continued on, ignoring his irritation.


    "Yeah! What about them?" Adam''s ear perked up.


    "At tonight''s auction, there''s going to be a necklace with a bug ruby in the centre." Liam spoke up heaving out a sigh. "According to my sources, that will be the last thing to be auctioned off. You have to bid for it. Get it for Stella."


    "But she doesn''t even like such stuff." Adam replied, his brows furrowed in confusion as to why would his Uncle Liam be asking him to bid for a necklace.


    "You don''t get it. You have to bid for it and have to get it back." Liam almost yelled at him through the phone''s speaker.


    "What do you mean by getting it back?" Adam asked, his voice was still calm.


    "It''s a family heirloom. It belongs to the Martin family." Liam replied heaving out a sigh.


    "Martin?..... As in Stella''s family?" Adam asked.


    "Yes the very same Martin family." Liam replied.


    Adam didn''t reply to him for a while. He was trying to wrap his head around things. After a while he finally spoke up. "So, you mean that the family heirloom was misplaced? Or they sold it off?"


    "They left the business for Ethan''s second paternal cousin to handle since he was an only child of the family. Along with the business, they left every single property they owned under this care. And then they vanished." Liam explained it to him. "I don''t know why but that rascal just sold the family heirloom some years ago. It has been in the dark till now."


    "Okay." Adam only replied with one word and cut off the call.


    He was having a hard time wrapping his head around what his Uncle Liam had told him over the phone. Even though there were many questions that he wanted to ask Liam, but at the moment the most important thing for him was to get the necklace back for his beasty. With this thought in mind, he made his way back in the hall, to his girl.


    -----------------------


    Stella was shocked to her core hearing the name Martin. First, she thought that it must be some coincidence that she had the same last name but her thoughts than drifted back to the conversation they had at Liam''s house. For her parents to know two of the most influential families of the country, they can''t be normal themselves.


    She turned her head to her right where Adam was sitting, only go find him already looking at her with a complex emotion in his eyes.


    "Is it the same Martin family as in my name?" She asked Adam with her quivering lips.


    Adam brought his lips closer to hers and placed a lingering kiss as if trying to reassure her. He slowly retracted his lips back. He slowly nodded his head in a yes.


    "The starting bid for this lovely piece of art is just 50 million euros. " The MC continued his speech.


    Before he could continue Adam had already raised his placard. "One hundred million euros."

 Chapter 78 - Nothing Is More Important

    "One hundred million euros." Adam''s strong voice resonated throughout the quiet hall. Everyone turned their heads around to see who was the man who had just doubled the amount in the first bid.


    Realizing that the person was none other Adam Levinson, people started whispering among themselves.


    "One hundred and twenty million euros." A female voice rang through the hall, making people turn their heads towards her.


    "One hundred and thirty million euros." A man in his early forties raise the bid, the woman next to him, who seemed to be in her early thirties was brimming with glee as she held her chin up in the air with pride.


    "One hundred and fifty million euros." The female raise the bid again.


    "Two hundred million euros." A man wearing gold-rimmed glasses, sitting at the table next to Adam, raise the bid.


    Seeing that there was no placards in the air, the MC started the countdown.


    "Two hundred million euros going once."


    "Two hundred million going twice."


    "Do I hear any more bids?" He asked before making the final call.


    Adam had enough of these pests trying to get their hands on something that rightfully belonged to his little elf. He raised his placard in the air.


    Seeing it, Stella gripped his other hand that was under the table. She was shaking her head sideways, asking him not to raise the bid. But how could he let others even hold what belonged to her.


    "Two hundred million going...." The MC was about to strike the wooden hammer on its pad. But before he could, a clear deep voice resonated throughout the quiet hall, making people suck in air into their lungs.


    "Five hundred million euros." Adam spoke up giving Stella a soft smile. It disappeared before everyone turned to look in their direction.


    The MC was shocked for a while, but soon regained his composure and started the countdown.


    "Five hundred million euros going once."


    "Five hundred million going twice."


    "Five hundred million going thrice." He called out, striking the hammer on its pad. Just as he did, a loud thundering applause broke the silence of the hall.


    Adam politely nodded at the MC and the people around them.


    Stella could only pinch the space between her eyebrows. ''I told him not to bid. Does he even listen to me, like ever?'' She could have smacked him hard on his chest already if it wasn''t for all these people around them.


    She grabbed two wine glasses from the waiter who was passing by her and gulped both of them down in one go.


    Adam looked at her as he heaved out a tired sigh. He knew he was going to get scolded later on. But he wasn''t worried about that. He was more worried about her getting angry with him. ''What if she stop talking to me?'' Even the thought itself was scaring him.


    "Stella?" He softly called her name.


    "Can we talk somewhere private?" Stella asked him.


    "Yeah, s-sure." He stammered.


    Adam guided her out of the hall as everyone else was waiting for the dinner to start.


    "What is it?" Adam asked her, testing the waters. ''You are in deep trouble man.''


    "I stopped you, didn''t I?" Stella asked him gritting her teeth.


    "But---" Adam spoke up but she interrupted him.


    "Yes or no?." Stella narrowed her eyes at him.


    "Yes." Adam replied. "At least listen to me." Adam said holding her shoulders. He continued when he didn''t get a response from her. "That belongs to you. How could I just sit and watch someone else snatch it away?"


    He brought her closer to him and placed a lingering kiss on the crown of her head. He could feel her body relax in his embrace.


    "But you didn''t have to spend so much money on it or me." Stella replied in a soft voice as she wrapped her arms his broad back.


    "Nothing is more important to me than you." Adam added as he rubbed her back trying to comfort her. "That amount of money doesn''t even cause a dent in my bank account sweetheart. And it was for a good cause." He continued.


    "I remember my parents being rich, but that was it. They were just rich, not over the top ones. We were living a simple life. They would give into my wishes but not that much. But this is just too much too wrap my head around." Stella finally spoke her thoughts out loud.


    "We will worry about it some other time. I promise to look into the matter baby girl. Don''t stress yourself out." Adam tried to calm his girl. He could feel her tremble in between his arms as she was talking about the past. "The good news is that you have your family heirloom now."


    "It''s yours. You paid for it." Stella gave him a curt reply.


    "What''s mine is yours." Adam added as he flicked her forehead.

 Chapter 79 - Will You Write Me A Check?

    After hugging each other for a while, the duo headed back to the hall to have their dinner.


    After eating to their stomachs'' content, Adam headed back stage as he had to hand over the check. Stella had drunk three more wine glasses during dinner and was a mess now. She was slurring through her speech. Adam had to choice but to take her with him. He couldn''t leave her alone in this vulnerable state among all those dogs who had been eyeing her for the whole event.


    Adam placed a hand at her back and guided her to the backstage. Shaking his hand with man who was in charge of the event, Adam took out a checkbook from his coat''s inside pocket. Before he could even open it, he heard a giggling sound.


    "You carry a checkbook with you." Stella spoke up, her giggling was converted to laughing now.


    "Or is it just for today?" She continued. The back of her left hand was covering her mouth as she laughed, while the other hand was wrapped around Adam''s bicep.


    The man looked at the girl with his eyes widened in shock, thinking who the stupid lady might be, having the guts to talk to Adam Levinson like this. Whereas Adam was looking at her like a lovestruck fool. He was finding her adorable.


    "I always carry a checkbook sweetheart." Adam replied softly as he patted her head with love.


    "It means you can write a check whenever you want to." She spoke up in between her giggles.


    "Well, that''s the idea of carrying it with me." Adam replied looking intently at her with tenderness in his eyes.


    "W-Will you write m-me a ch-check?" Stella asked him with big hopeful eyes.


    "Of course babygirl! I will write to you ''me'' in a check." Adam winked at her, making her giggle more.


    He took out a pen and wrote the check, signed it and tore it. He passed it to the man who was looking at the couple as if he was looking at some aliens, or more specifically, an alien. If he told someone how Adam was behaving right now, no one would believe him and call him crazy. For people Adam Levinson didn''t even have a heart. He was a ruthless businessman who didn''t know how to smile.


    Adam waved the check before him. "You want it?" Adam asked him in usual emotionless voice.


    The man regained his composure and took the check, nodding politely at Adam. After confirming that the amount of zeroes was right and the signature was not smudged, he picked a maroon jewelry box and passed it Adam. Adam checked the box and made his was out with Stella clinging to his arm like a baby koala.


    Adam knew he had to drive back, so he only had a glass of wine himself.


    After making sure that Stella was sitting comfortably in her seat and that her seat belt was fastened, he put the car into motion after placing the big box on Stella''s lap.


    When Adam parked the car before the large wooden doors which were kept open, he found the girl deep asleep in the passenger seat.


    As if hearing the sound of engine, the old butler came out to greet Adam. No matter how many times Adam had scolded him and asked him not to do it, he just didn''t listen to him. Adam had kind of gotten used to it by now.


    "Do you need my help with anything?" The old butler asked him.


    "You can place this in my room. I will bring her up in a while." Adam replied passing him the box.


    The old butler nodded and left the couple alone.


    Adam turned his head to the side to look at his sleeping beauty. His deep gray eyes looking at her, taking in every single detail, etching it in his memories.


    He slowly shifted his body closer to her. He placed his arm on the back of her seat. With the other he brushed off the locks of hair covering her face. He placed a soft peck on her forehead as his thumb grazed over her lips. If he could just kiss those delicacies right now. He has been controlling himself throughout the night, he could not do it anymore. But her sleep was more important to him.


    "I know one thing for sure now, I am never letting you go babygirl. You are the source of my happiness sweetheart. And I will do anything for you just to keep you happy and smiling." He murmured softly.


    Stella stirred in her sleep, opening her eyes slowly as her eyelids flutter. "Are we home?" She asked in a sleepy voice.


    "Yes we are home." Adam replied tapping her nose only to get a pout in return.


    ''Home.'' He liked the sound of it.


    "Let''s get you inside." He spoke up as he unfastened her seatbelt.

 Chapter 80 - You Arent Allowed

    Adam wanted to carry Stella to her room but she turned him down saying that she could walk on her own. Adam could only agree with his drunken little elf.


    ''A note to self: Never argue with a drunken Stella. Just agree with whatever she says.'' He made a mental note that could be used in the future.


    With her unsteady steps, Stella walked in the direction of her room with Adam following behind her closely. He had his arms splayed out in case if she fell. Her heels were now dangling over her shoulder as she had taken them off before getting out of the car.


    When they finally made it to her room, Stella stood before the door quietly as if she was lost in her own thoughts.


    "Aren''t you going to go inside?" Adam asked her softly but did not get any response from the girl.


    She turned around after a minute or two to face him. She looked deeply into his eyes which were staring back at her.


    ''You can do it Stella.'' She thought to herself inwardly, encouraging herself, as she took a step towards him.


    Holding the lapels of his coat, she brought him closer to her.


    Adam tilted his head down slightly. "You alright ba¡­..?" The rest of his words were muffled by her lips. Adam''s eyes widened in shock as her soft lips moved over his firm ones, slowly and sensually. It was enough for him to lose his mind.


    His arms found their way around her waist, bringing her impossibly close to him, crushing her body against his own. He responded to her kiss, sucking onto those luscious lips.


    Stella slowly moved her hands up and wrapped them around his neck. Her fingers playing with his silky hairs as tried to poke her tongue into his mouth, reciprocating his actions from their prior kisses.


    Adam felt her tongue trying to enter in his mouth and he easily gave in. Adam felt his blood rushing down to his crotch as their tongues grazed against each other, fighting for dominance.


    "I have put the box...." The old butler came out of Adam''s room. He saw Adam''s back and thought of informing him that he had put the box on his dressing table, but before he could he saw his Young Master busy kissing and being kissed. It was more than what his old heart could handle and he stopped midway in his sentence.


    Adam and Stella broke their kiss as soon as they heard the old butler. Stella was breathing in and out trying to calm down her nerves, her face was crimson red.


    "Look at the time, I should head back to my room." The old butler spoke up, looking everywhere but at the couple. After speaking out his thoughts, he left the couple alone in the hallway.


    "I should go as well." Stella added meekly, earning a glare from Adam.


    "Where do you think you are going little Missy, after seducing me." Adam narrowed his eyes at her. He is not going to let her have her way this time. ''How could she just turn me on and then talk about leaving?''


    Before Stella could reply, Adam grabbed her hand and pulled her inside his room, closing the door after her.


    Adam pushed her against the door, pressing her body with his, leaving no space in between them. "You aren''t allowed to leave my room tonight baby." He whispered in her ear seductively as he caressed her cheek.


    Before Stella could protest against it, his lips smashed over hers. Stella wanted to retaliate but her body betrayed her. A low moan escaped her lips as Adam sucked on to her lips as if his life depended on it. She tried to keep up with his pace but no matter how much she tried to, she couldn''t.


    Adam withdrew his lips giving her a chance to breathe as he rested his forehead against hers, his hands resting on the door on either side of her head.


    "I want to take off your dress." Adam spoke softly, his eyes set on her face, trying to detect any changes in her expressions. "But I will stop right here if you want me to."


    Stella opened her eyes at his words. A pair of gray eyes, filled with emotions, were staring deeply into her hazel ones. She could feel her soul being sucked into a whirlpool of emotions.


    "You know, drinking a lot is bad for your mind." Stella spoke up after a while.


    Adam furrowed his brows as he couldn''t understand what she was referring to. He did get her point but that wasn''t what he had asked her. Before he could spoke up, Stella continued.


    "There''s a zipper at the back of my dress." Her cheeks were crimson red as she replied.

 Chapter 81 - You Did Good

    *WARNING: The chapter contains some adult content but not too much.*


    "There''s a zipper at the back of my dress." Her cheeks were crimson red as she replied.


    His lips broke into a grin when he heard Stella''s reply. He slowly moved his hands to her back. Finding the zipper, he tugged it down. His hands found their way to the straps of her dress.


    Stella sucked in air through her teeth when he felt his fingers tracing alone the straps. Adam hooked his fingers under the straps and slowly moved them of her shoulders. As soon as the straps loosened, the dress slid down her body, pooling around her feet.


    Adam swept her off of her feet and headed towards his bed. After placing the girl carefully on his bed, he took a step back so that he could look at her.


    Stella was wearing a black strapless lacy bra which contrasted with her fair skin. His eyes darkened as they fell on the black lacy thong that she was sporting. Adam gulped a mouthful of saliva, trying to wet his dry throat.


    He could feel his pants tightening around his manhood with every passing second.


    "Do you know how divine you are looking right now?" Adam spoke up in a hoarse voice as he looked at his girl who was trying to make herself look smaller. Adam threw his coat on the floor followed by his belt.


    Stella shut her eyes tightly when she felt the bed dip next to her.


    "Relax Stella." Adam spoke next to her ear softly. "I won''t do anything you don''t want to." He continued, trying to calm her nerves down. "Just stop me when you don''t like what I am doing."


    Stella nodded her head slightly as she opened her eyes. "Alright."


    Adam placed a soft kiss on the top of her head. He moved over her, placing his knees on either side of her legs.


    "Look at me." He spoke up as he started to unbutton his shirt.


    Stella couldn''t turn her eyes away from him even if she wanted to. Her eyes were glued to the skin that was now peeking through the open shirt. After undoing the last button, Adam undid his cuff and removed his shirt, throwing it somewhere on the floor.


    He saw Stella taking in a deep breath as she was gawking at his naked upper half. He was pleased by her reaction. ''I think I should get her drunk more often. At least she is less shy then.'' He thought to himself.


    "Enjoying the show?" Adam asked her as his lips were hovering over hers.


    Stella slowly nodded her head in a yes making him chuckle.


    "Oh baby." Adam murmured against her lips and crashed his lips against hers.


    Adam sucked on to her lips as his tongue made its way inside her mouth, their tongues grazing against each other, dancing together in their own rhythm.


    Adam''s lips slowly made their way down to her throat where he sucked on her fair skin, earning moans from her mouth. Finding her soft spot, he grazed his teeth over her soft spot, biting it softly then licking it with his tongue. His lips moved lower to her collarbones leaving marks behind.


    Stella couldn''t help but gasp when she felt his lips getting lower to her breasts as his hands were moving up from her waist, sending shivers down her spine.


    Stella could feel a strange sensation spreading through her lower abdomen which she had never felt before.


    Adam left a trail of love bites from her cleavage to her navel. He swirled his tongue around her navel as he sucked it hard.


    He could feel her breath get hitched. Putting his weight on his knees again, he sat back, straddling her.


    His one hand moved to her right breast as he caressed it with care, pressing it with his palm. A low moan escape from her mouth as she bit her lower lip, trying to hold it in. Adam was watching her intently, taking in the smallest reaction of her body.


    He continued to play with her breast as his other hand traced down to her navel and lower. His fingers traced her lacy thong as they moved in between her legs. He pressed his fingers against the fabric. He could feel the wetness on his fingers. He rubbed the spot applying pressure. Stella felt her legs tremble as a weird spread through her body starting from her core.


    Adam increased the pace of his movements, earnings moans from her. He wanted to have her right now, but her knew it wasn''t the time.


    "Adam." Stella gulped and called his name. Heaving a sigh, Adam stopped whatever he was doing. He pressed a kiss on her forehead.


    "You did good baby girl." He murmured against her forehead.


    He moved out of the bed and headed to his closet. Picking up a white T-shirt, he made his way back to her only to find her already sleeping.


    After putting on the shirt on her, he tucked her inside the duvets and made his way to the bathroom.


    "You are only getting a cold shower tonight." He murmured as he looked down at the bulging tent in his pants.

 Chapter 82 - I Agree With You

    Stella stretched her arms as a yawn escaped her mouth. She slowly opened her eyes, her eyebrows furrowing as she looked at the strange surroundings.


    "This isn''t my room." She slowly murmured under her breath. She tried to turn to her other side but couldn''t. She felt some weight pressing down on her waist, restricting her movements. Her eyes trailed down to her waist and she shrieked at the top of her lungs.


    "Aaaaahhhhhhhh!" There was a hand wrapped around her waist, holding her in her place.


    Adam opened his eyes at the sudden shriek.


    "What happened? Are you alright?" He asked with concern, sitting up as he looked at the girl lying next to him.


    Stella was looking at him with her eyes popping out of their sockets. Her eyes trailed to his exposed chest, it was then she realized he wasn''t wearing a shirt.


    "Y-You." She said pointing her finger at him. "You aren''t wearing a shirt."


    "Umm¡­. Yeah!" Adam replied giving her a sheepish look. "I don''t have a habit of wearing a shirt when I sleep."


    "W-What happened l-last n-night?" She stammered.


    "You don''t remember? Like nothing at all?" Adam asked her.


    "I remember having dinner with you last night at the auction. After that, it''s all a blur." Stella replied to him as she tried recalling what had happened last night.


    "How can you not remember? How can you just forget after taking advantage of me?" Adam asked in return, giving her an accused look.


    Stella laughed it off. Her laughter soon died down when she saw the sulking look on Adam''s face.


    "You must be joking. I-I couldn''t have taken advantage of you." Stella looked at him with a worried expression. "I didn''t, right?" Looking at his expressions she was having doubts that she might have actually taken advantage of him in her drunken state. ''I can''t be blamed for it when he has such a drool worthy body.''


    "Looks like I need to remind you of what you did to me." Adam narrowed his eyes at her.


    Before he could get close to her, Stella jumped out of the bed. Her legs shivered slightly because of the temperature of the room. It was then she realized that she wasn''t wearing the dress from last night but a white loose t-shirt that stopped on her mid-thighs. ''This isn''t mine.'' She thought to herself.


    "Who changed my clothes?" She asked with a shocked expression.


    "Me." Adam stated as a matter of fact. Who else could have done it if not him.


    "What are you being so shy about now?" Adam asked her when he saw her face turning crimson red. "I don''t remember you blushing last night." Adam continued as he stepped out of the duvets.


    Stella instinctively took two steps back as Adam took slow steps towards her.


    "Where do you think you are going baby girl?" Adam spoke in a hoarse voice taking slow steps towards her.


    Stella''s eyes darted towards the door but she knew that she can''t reach it. She looked at the other door that was to her left, turning around she made a run for it. Adam followed her but before he could catch her, she disappeared into the bathroom, locking the door from the inside.


    Adam knocked on the door a couple of times, trying to open it. "Stella, open the door."


    "I am not opening the door. And I am not coming out either." Stella replied from the inside.


    "Alright, I will just wait here for you to come out." He added as his lips broke into a devilish smirk.


    He made his way back to his bed and took out a bunch of keys from his bedside table. He went back to the bathroom with quiet steps, careful not to make a single sound.


    All the keys had a number engraved in them. Finding the one for his bathroom, he slowly unlocked the door. He peeked inside only to find her looking at her reflection in the floor to ceiling mirror.


    "This shirt doesn''t look bad on me." Stella murmured.


    "I agree with you." Adam added he stepped into the bathroom and stood behind her.


    Stella looked at his reflection as he took slow steps towards her.


    Adam wrapped his arms around her as their eyes locked in the reflection.


    "Where are you going to run now?" He whispered seductively in her ear giving her goosebumps all over.


    Adam turned her body around and captured her lips with his own. He picked her up without breaking their kiss. He carried her to the shower and placed her down again. Without breaking their kiss he turned on the shower.


    He wrapped his one hand around her back, bringing her body impossibly close to his. His other hand found its way to her nape.


    Stella couldn''t help but respond to his kiss. Their lips moved in sync with water running down their bodies.

 Chapter 83 - Hickeys Or Love Bites?

    Adam caressed her back as their tongues danced together. He could tell that his little elf was getting better at kissing. After five whole minutes, he finally let go of her lips, allowing her to breathe.


    Stella''s mind was a mess as she took deep breaths to calm herself down. Adam''s condition was no better than her as he looked at her swollen lips and those teary eyes, making her look more alluring as the wet t-shirt stuck to her skin.


    Turning off the shower, he wiped the water off her face.


    "No matter how much I want to continue where we stopped last night, I know you aren''t ready for it." Adam softly spoke as he cupped her cheeks. "And nothing much happened last night." Adam added with a wink.


    Kissing her forehead, he turned around to leave. "I will get something for you to wear, you can freshen up." He said grabbing a towel from the towel rack and headed outside, not forgetting to close the door on his way out.


    Stella looked at the door for a while as a smile slowly crept up on her lips. She was thankful that he was so understanding. She turned around and took off the wet t-shirt that was clinging to her skin and irritating her. After taking off her undergarments, she turned on the shower absentmindedly.


    ----------------------


    After twenty minutes, Stella came out of the bathroom with only a towel wrapped around her, covering her assets. She walked to the bed and saw a baggy black t-shirt with a denim jeans placed on the bed. There was also a red lacy bra and matching panties with a note placed over them. She picked it up to read it.


    ''You look good in black. I would love to see you in red. ;)


    I am waiting for you at the dining table.


    Love,


    A''


    A faint blush spread over her cheeks as she crumpled the note and threw it in the waste bin.


    ---------------------


    Adam was waiting for Stella at the dining table as a maid was serving their breakfast. Just as the maid was leaving, a fuming Stella stomped into the dining room.


    The maid bowed her head slightly in respect and left the room. Stella didn''t pay any attention to her or to her surroundings as she made her way to Adam.


    "Why do I have hickeys on my torso?" She picked up a fork from the table, pointing it at him. She didn''t pay attention to her body when she was in the shower, but when she was dressing up, her eyes accidentally fell on the mirror of his dressing table which was showing her reflection. It was then she noticed them. Her blood was boiling looking at the marks, starting from her neck and down to her navel.


    "I prefer to call them love bites sweetheart." Adam gave her a toothy grin.


    "You said nothing much happened last night. This is your nothing much?" She glared at him.


    "Baby girl, if i had done what I wanted to, then you would not have been standing here but rather lying down in bed." Adam replied as he stood up. "Now sit and eat. I am sure you must be famished by now." He continued as he made her settle down on a chair next to him.


    "And it''s not my fault that you jumped on me. I was just dropping you off to your room to make sure you don''t stumble." He added taking the fork from her hand. "Trust me when I say that you enjoyed every bit of it." Adam gave her a devilish smirk.


    "I know I did." Stella said with a pout. "I remember bits and pieces of last night." She added with a guilty expression.


    "I am glad that you do now let''s eat, shall we?" Adam said as he patted her head lovingly.


    -------------------


    Later in the evening, Adam and Stella were in his study. Stella was sitting in her usual spot reading some romantic novel while Adam was going through some emails as he sat on the couch with his laptop placed before him on the table.


    He had gone out to take a call earlier but when he returned, he was in a bad mood. Stella had noticed it but decided to stay quiet.


    "What''s up?" She finally asked him, putting down her book.


    "Nothing sweetheart." Adam gave her a soft smile.


    "Then why are you taking it out on your poor laptop." She gave him a grin. "You know you can talk¡­.." Before she could complete her sentence, her phone interrupted her and started to ring. It was a call from Bella. Stella''s brow furrowed as she looked at who the caller was. Bella never calls her, not even in office.


    She excused herself and headed outside. "We will talk after I take this call." She gave Adam a threatening look making him chuckle as he nodded his head.


    "Hey Bella. What''s up?" She spoke after picking up the call once she was outside.

 Chapter 84 - I Promise

    "Hey Bella. What''s up?" She spoke after picking up the call once she was outside.


    "Hello Stella. How are you?" Bella asked her politely.


    "I am fine. What about you?" Stella replied.


    "I am fine too. I actually need a favor from you. Are with boss right now? Or you can call him?" Bella hastily added.


    "What is it?" Stella asked her in response.


    "One of our subsidiaries overseas is facing a problem. Something went wrong with one of the projects. Our partners for the project, are not taking any responsibility for the loss and putting the blame on us. Though we don''t mind about the loss but it''s bad for the image of Levinson''s Corp. The Vice President thinks that Boss should go and I think the same. It''s not a small matter." Bella explained to her the situation.


    "So?" Stella wasn''t getting for what she needed her help.


    "Mr. Robert did talk to Boss earlier, but he declined. He said he won''t be going there and Mr. Robert should handle it on his own. Though he is able to do it but we need Boss to go. So, can you please talk to him, pretty please?" Bella was almost pleading her.


    "When''s the flight?" Stella asked her.


    "Tonight at 12 a.m." Bella replied.


    "How many days?" Stella asked her again as she started to walk towards Adam''s room.


    "Two to four days. It will take them five days at most." Bella replied politely.


    "He won''t miss the flight. And you don''t have to thank me." Stella added, walking into his walk-in closet.


    "Still, I owe you a big one. Mr. Robert asked me to talk to Boss but I didn''t have the guts to." Bella replied.


    After cutting off the call, Stella selected a bunch of business suits and some casualwear for him. Placing all of them on the king-size bed, she pressed the button that was next to his bedside table.


    The old butler came in after three minutes.


    "You called for me Young Master?" Uncle Rob spoke up as he entered the room but was shocked to see Stella standing there instead of Adam.


    "I need a suitcase that could fit all of these and two to three pairs of shoes and sneakers." Stella politely asked him. "And don''t tell this to Adam, please." Stella continued, giving him a wide smile.


    "I will send one over." He replied.


    "Thank you." Stella thanked him as he was heading out.


    A few minutes later a servant brought over a big black trolley bag. And placed it on the table in the room. After thanking him, Stella started packing his clothes.


    Half an hour later she was almost done with the packing and sent him a message.


    ---------------------


    Adam was busy going through his emails. He was wondering what was taking her so long. ''Why hasn''t she come back?'' He thought to himself.


    Just as he picked his phone up, it beeped. There was a message from Stella.


    ''Come to your room. ASAP!!!''


    Shutting his laptop, he made his way towards his room, taking long strides. When he entered his room, he saw her hovering over a suitcase.


    "Are you going somewhere?" He couldn''t help but ask her.


    "It''s not for me, but for you." Stella replied without looking at him.


    "I have packed almost everything, I think so. You should give it a look to check if I am forgetting anything or not." Stella replied as she took a glance at him.


    "I am not going anywhere." Adam narrowed his eyes as he took a seat on the couch.


    "You are going to the meeting whether you like it or not." Stella made her way around the table and sat next to him.


    "You cannot just not go because you don''t want to leave your girlfriend alone." Stella added as she pinched his chin.


    "It''s not because of you." Adam replied as he tried to avoid looking in her eyes.


    "Oh really?" Stella gave him an amused look. "Then why are you avoiding looking at me." Stella pinched his cheeks. "I can tell when you are lying Adam. You are really bad at it."


    "But I...." Adam spoke up but her lips were covered my her hand.


    "No buts. You are going, and that''s final." Stella gave him a glare.


    Adam tugged at her hand, pulling her up on his lap. He hugged her tightly, burying her face in her neck.


    "I will still be here when you come back." Stella tried to reassure the big baby who was sulking as he hugged her. "I promise." Stella ran her fingers through his silky hairs, her other hand patting his back slowly.


    "I know." Adam murmured against her skin as he nuzzled into her neck, inhaling her vanilla scent in. It calmed his nerves down.

 Chapter 85 - My Crybaby

    "I will try to wind up my work as soon as possible." Adam spoke up, his one hand resting over her shoulders as they waited in the VIP waiting lounge of the airport. "Remember the man who picked you up on the day I proposed to you, he will be your chauffeur till I get back." Adam continued.


    Stella sat there quietly next to him, her face crimson red. They weren''t the only one in the VIP waiting lounge, the Vice President was also there and was sitting directly across them.


    Adam couldn''t keep his hands to himself, twenty minutes from now, his private jet will leave for France and so will he. He wanted to spend the remaining time he had with her. But here she was, sitting next to him and not even bothering to talk to him.


    "I am going to miss you." Adam spoke as he brushed away the few strands of hairs that had somehow managed to escape the bun. "And it doesn''t look like you will be missing me." He continued as he pursed his lips together.


    "Don''t talk nonsense. Of course I will miss you." Stella finally replied to him. "No matter how annoying or a pain in the ass you are sometimes, I have gotten used to having you around, within my reach." Stella continued, keeping her voice low so that only Adam could hear her.


    "I will be back even before you realize that I am gone." Adam gave her a toothy smile, one that could steal anyone''s heart.


    Stella looked at him intently as her eyes become teary. She buried her face in his chest as a few tears managed to escape her eyes.


    "Hey! What''s with being so emotional suddenly?" Adam asked her, his voice laced with concern. "Aren''t you the one who''s forcing me to go? Now look at you." Adam rubbed her back with love.


    Stella didn''t reply to him. She continued to hug him, her face buried into his sturdy chest.


    All of her life she has been alone. There was no one to look after her after her parents passed away. She looked after herself. She closed off herself from the outside world. She was finally getting used to it. But then, he came into her life. No matter how much she tried, she couldn''t keep him out of her life. He knocked down the walls she had made around her heart, removing one brick at a time. She couldn''t comprehend how someone could affect her so much that even the thought of him going away for a couple of days could tear her up like this.


    ''Maybe, this is how it feels to be in love with someone.'' The thought itself was scaring her. She loved her parents with all of her heart and they left her. What if...


    "Stop being so emotional sweetheart." Adam interrupted her thoughts.


    Pulling back from the hug, Adam peppered her face with soft feather like kisses.


    Before he could continue, a man clad in a black suit approached them.


    "It''s time to leave, Sir." He interrupted the couple.


    Adam nodded and stood up with Stella clinging to his arm.


    "I will miss you." Stella spoke up in a meek voice.


    "I will miss my crybaby too." Adam replied pinching her nose.


    He glanced at the rest of the people around them, half of which were his bodyguards, and tilted his head to the side, asking them to leave. They nodded and left, leaving the couple alone.


    Seeing that they were alone now, Adam kissed her lips, sucking on them as Stella reciprocated. He reluctantly let go of her lips after a while. Pressing one last kiss on her forehead, he spoke up.


    "I will see you soon." Adam left after speaking these words.


    Stella stood in the waiting lounge even after he had left. Her eyes were set on the runway where a jet with the logo of Levinson''s Corp was ready to take off. She only left once the jet was no longer visible in the sky.


    --------------------


    Coming back home, she was in a terrible mood. No matter how many times she turned in her bed, she couldn''t sleep. Her eyelids didn''t even close for a minute. Heaving a frustrated sigh out, she decided to go to the rooftop.


    "May be fresh air will help me a bit." She muttered under her breath as she stepped out of her bed. She picked a night robe from her walk-in closet and donned it over her black baggy t-shirt and matching shorts.


    She headed out of her room, her eyes feel on the door opposite to her. She couldn''t control herself and turned the knob only to find the room unlocked. She stepped inside and made her way towards the bed. Jumping on to it, she climbed under the duvets. Her eyes slowly became heavier and she drifted off to her dreamland, hugging Adam''s pillow.

 Chapter 86 - Emails

    Stella woke up the next morning and headed to the office after having her breakfast. She didn''t eat much, even though she was hungry.


    "Hey Bella." She greeted Bella as she exited the elevator. Though she had the key card with her but she didn''t use the elevator that was exclusive for Adam. She wouldn''t want people to talk behind her back, especially not about Adam.


    "Hey Stella! Thanks for last night." Bella greeted her with a wide smile.


    "It''s no big deal." Stella politely replied. "Is there anything for me to do today? I don''t have any pending work." She asked her.


    "Nope! No work at all." Bella replied.


    "I will be in my office, do tell me if anything comes up." Stella added and made her way to her office.


    "I will let you know." Bella replied as she looked at her retreating figure. Once she was out of her sight, her eyes fell on to the screen of her computer which was showing an email from her boss.


    --------


    From: Adam


    To: Bella


    Subject: Stella


    Don''t pass any files to her, not until I come back. Ask her to leave early.


    --------


    After replying to the email, she busied herself, going through the emails that she needed to forward to her boss.


    Stella slouched down on her chair as she switched on the computer. After making sure that she had no pending work, she decided to go through her social media accounts. As she was was scrolling down her Instagram feed with a bored expression on her face, she heard a ping. She had received an email.


    Thinking that it might be from Bella, she opened it. Her lips broke into a wide smile when she saw that the email was from Adam.


    ---------


    From: Adam


    To: Stella


    Subject: Breakfast


    You didn''t forget to eat a proper breakfast, did you?


    ---------


    Stella typed in a reply and hit send.


    From: Stella


    To: Adam


    Subject: Email


    Why are you sending me emails when you have my phone number?


    And yes I did have a proper breakfast.


    --------


    Stella decided to tell him a white lie. Though she didn''t eat properly but she did have something to eat. She was lost in her thoughts when she heard another ping.


    --------


    From: Adam


    To: Stella


    Subject: Email


    I am using my laptop right now, in a meeting at the moment.


    ---------


    From: Stella


    To: Adam


    Subject: Meeting


    Why are you not focusing on your meeting? Stop emailing me!!!


    ---------


    From: Adam


    To: Stella


    Subject: Reason


    Because I am missing you.


    ---------


    From: Stella


    To: Adam


    Subject: Meeting


    I am missing you too but focus on the meeting right now. I am busy at the moment as well.


    ---------


    From: Adam


    To: Stella


    Subject: You


    You and busy? Doing what?


    Surfing the internet?


    Scrolling through your feed?


    You were probably done with facebook already and must have been scrolling through your instagram feed, liking pictures of food.


    ---------


    Stella looked at her computer screen with her eyes popping out of their sockets. ''How did he know?'' The picture that she liked was indeed a picture of some exotic dish which is mostly made in Switzerland.


    ----------


    From: Stella


    To: Adam


    Subject: Spying


    Are you spying on me Adam?


    ---------


    From: Adam


    To: Stella


    Subject: Spying


    I don''t need to spy on my girlfriend to know what she is actually doing. I know her pretty well.


    ---------


    From: Stella


    To: Adam


    Subject: Girlfriend


    Your girlfriend must be flattered that you know her this well.


    ---------


    From: Adam


    To: Stella


    Subject: Girlfriend


    Oh! Trust me!


    She definitely is.


    ;)


    ---------


    Stella bit her lower lip, looking at the wink he had added at the end.


    ---------


    From: Stella


    To: Adam


    Subject: Your eye


    Is there something wrong with your eye Mr Adam?


    ---------


    From: Adam


    To: Stella


    Subject: My eye


    I assure you that my eye is definitely fine. Both of them are.


    ---------


    From: Stella


    To: Adam


    Subject: Meeting


    Focus on the meeting Adam. We will talk when you get free.


    I don''t have anything to do anyways. So give me a call when your are free.


    ---------


    From: Adam


    To: Stella


    Subject: You


    Alright! I will focus on the meeting for now.


    If you don''t have any work to do, why don''t you head home and relax sweetheart?


    Or you can go out with Katherine. I can assure you that she will be more than happy to go out.


    Take care of yourself. Eat well. Sleep well. Did I mention EAT WELL?


    And I miss you.


    -----------


    From: Stella


    To: Adam


    Subject: You


    I will see about the going out part.


    And yes, yes, yes. I will do all of these.


    You too take care of yourself. Don''t over work.


    I miss you too.


    <3


    ----------


    Stella shut down her computer after waiting for a while for Adam''s reply but didn''t get any. ''He must be busy.''


    She headed out of her office. After saying her goodbyes to Bella and whoever she met on the way, she made her way to the parking lot where her chauffeur was waiting for him.


    "Take me to Golden Corals." She spoke up after settling in the car.

 Chapter 87 - Its Pretty Obvious

    "Where do you think you are going Miss?" One of the bouncers stopped Stella as she was about to step inside. "Can I see your membership card?"


    "I don''t have one." Stella replied lazily.


    "Then I apologise, but you can not go in there without one." The bouncer added with a bored expression on his face. He was a tall man with a dark tone, broad shoulders and a muscular build. He was clad in a black fitted t-shirt and matching jeans as he stood by the entrance with a tired expression on his face.


    "What''s your name?" Stella asked him with a bored expression.


    "It''s Edward, Miss." He replied politely.


    "Look Edward, my boyfriend is out of the country. And here I am, missing him, like a lot. I need to have something to drink and also someone to watch over me as I get myself crazy drunk. So, will you please let me go in?" Stella gave him an annoyed look.


    "And my boyfriend is Adam Levinson." She added as she entered the place and directly headed to the elevator. She saw the man coming after her, but the elevator''s door closed before he could even get close to her. Stella waved at him with a soft smile through the closing doors when their eyes met.


    "Hey!" Stella greeted Blake, who was lost in his own thoughts, as she entered private lounge.


    Blake looked at the intruder, his eyes narrowing as his brows furrowed. "What are you doing here?" He asked her as she sat on the couch before him.


    "I was bored, had nothing to do. I thought I could hang out here with Katherine." Stella replied giving him a wide smile.


    The door to the room opened after a single knock. "Boss there''s some lady who...." Edward''s voice trailed off when he saw the little lady who had run earlier, sitting before his boss.


    "What?" Blake gave him a deadpanned look.


    "Oh, he must have thought that I was bluffing when I told him that I am Adam''s girlfriend." Stella answered Blake.


    "Edward, meet Stella. She is indeed Adam''s girl, so don''t stop her from entering onwards." Blake gave Edward a stern look, who nodded and left the room after saying. "I apologise for earlier Ms. Stella."


    "It''s alright! You were just doing your job." Stella replied politely, her eyes sat on his retreating back.


    "Katherine isn''t here at the moment, I will leave her a text that you are here. She will run back in no time." Blake spoke up as he picked up his phone that was lying next to him on the couch.


    After a while a tall fair girl entered the room with a bottle of wine in her one hand while the other one was holding on to the stem of two wine glasses. She was wearing a white blouse that was paired with a black pleated skirt stopping on her mid thigh. She was wearing black high-heeled boots which were complimenting her fair legs. She had an oval shaped face with high cheekbones. The most eye-catching feature she had were her eyes, a pair of dark green eyes, reminding you of a deep dark forest.


    "Here you go Boss." She spoke up, her voice soft and smooth.


    "Thanks Lily." Blake gave her a charming smile. "Meet Stella, she''s Adam''s girlfriend."


    Lily''s eyes trailed to Stella who sitting quietly observing the interaction between the two.


    "I am Stella." Stella extended her hand towards her with a friendly smile on her face.


    "Hi! I am Lillian." She replied, accepting her extended hand.


    After Lillian left the room, Stella looked at Blake as if he has grown a pair of horns on his head.


    "Why are you staring at me like that?" Blake couldn''t stand her gaze and asked her as he poured some wine for her.


    "Who''s she?" Stella asked him with a curious look on her face.


    "She works here." Blake replied, passing her a glass.


    "I didn''t see her the last time I was here." Stella added, taking a sip of her wine.


    "She isn''t allowed to serve guests. That''s why." Blake replied.


    "Oh!" Stella nodded her head. "How long has she worked for you?" She continued with her interrogation.


    "Two years. Why do you ask?" Blake gave her a confused look. ''What''s with all these questions?'' He thought to himself.


    "You like her. Don''t you?" Stella gave him a smirk.


    Hearing to her question which sounded more like a statement, Blake choked on his wine. He ended up coughing profusely while Stella''s smirk only widened.


    "You could tell that." Blake decided it was useless to lie to the curious cat sitting before him.


    Stella nodded her head. "It''s pretty obvious."


    "No wonder you and Adam get along so well." He added as he recalled the time when had used the same words. "He did the same, made me choke on my damn wine."


    "Why does she seem to oblivious with it then?" He pouted.


    "Have you ever told her that?" Stella replied to him with a question.


    "No! I cannot bring myself to do it. What if she doesn''t feel anything for me in return? Even the thought of it scares me." Blake replied to her, staring out of the glass windows.

 Chapter 88 - One Way Or Another

    "No! I cannot bring myself to do it. What if she doesn''t feel anything for me in return? Even the thought of it scares me." Blake replied to her, staring out of the glass windows.


    "But you have to give it a try." Stella interrupted his thoughts. "When I first joined the office, I used to think that Adam treating me good, is just a normal thing. Even though at times I used to think why would someone like Adam needed to treat me good. And I knew the answer to it. It''s just, I forced myself to turn a blind eye to it. Everything was going okay, but Adam had to confess about his feelings for me. It turned my world upside down. No matter how hard I tried to ignore his advances, I just couldn''t do it then."


    "You should give it a go." Stella advised him.


    "Alright! I will try my luck." Blake was finally getting the courage that he was lacking in the last two years. The first time he laid his eyes on Lillian, he was smitten by her. He felt an attraction towards her which slowly developed into something deep as time passed by. Now, he could not even imagine spending a day without seeing her. That was the sole reason he stayed at the club and not his penthouse. Staying here means he could see her as much as he wants to.


    "Best of luck to you then." Stella raised her glass, wishing him luck.


    Blake clinked his glass against hers. "Thank you."


    Just as they were discussing about Adam''s childhood, the door opened once again. This time it was Katherine. She sprinted towards Stella.


    "I am so happy to see you." She hugged Stella, almost squeezing the life out of the poor girl.


    "So am I." Stella replied as she patted her back in a friendly manner.


    "What are you doing here by the way?" Katherine asked her as she settled down on the couch, making Stella sit next to her.


    "I was bored and didn''t have anything to do. So, I thought why not come here." Stella replied to her as a faint smile graced her lips.


    "You did the right thing." Katherine was more than delighted to hangout with the little lady. She finally had a friend who wasn''t with her because of her money and fame. She knew for sure that Stella wasn''t someone like that. If she was, she wouldn''t have been able to catch Adam''s attention, let alone making him crazy about her.


    When she arrived at the party that night, she had heard Adam talking to Blake about her. The way he spoke about her wasn''t something she had expected from Adam, out of all people. She could see the tenderness his eyes held when he was talking about how happy it made him when she had said yes to his proposal, and that he was happy that he had confessed his feelings to her.


    She was genuinely happy for Adam. Her and Blake were a year older than him, so she had always treated him like a little brother.


    As the two girls chatted happily over wine, Blake left them on their own. He was now in his room which was located at the far end of the hallway.


    He called Lily in his room. After two minutes she knocked at his door once and entered.


    "You called for me?" She asked him as she made her way to him, who was lying down on the bed wearing a pair of black trousers, his muscular torso was exposed for her to see. She wasn''t bothered by the sight at all for she had seen him in less than this.


    "Ask someone to serve them some snacks and make sure Stella doesn''t drink herself crazy or else Adam will kill me." Blake told her as he motioned her to come close to him.


    She complied and went to sit on the bed, next to him.


    "I want to take you somewhere out." Blake added as he leaned against the headrest.


    "What do you mean?" Lillian gave him a glare.


    "You know what I mean. You aren''t that dumb. And neither am I. I know you were standing outside the door when I was talking to Stella." Blake yanked her hand towards himself. She crashed down on his muscular chest, her hands resting over his broad shoulders. She could feel the toned muscles under her fingers.


    "You heard it all, didn''t you?" Blake gave her a scathing glare. "Did you think I wouldn''t know it with my senses."


    "Do what I just asked you to and don''t worry, I will make you say yes, one way or another." He gave her an evil grin which made shivers run down her spine.


    No matter how good of a man he was, she knew him better than anyone else expect for his childhood friend. Even his sister didn''t know him well enough.


    But she owed him her life. If it wasn''t for him, she wouldn''t have been alive today. And she knew for sure that no matter what, he would never hurt her.


    "Yes, Boss." She replied to him without any expressions on her face.

 Chapter 89 - Did You Just Take A Shower?

    Stella was humming a song as she came out of the bathroom. She was drying her hairs using a white towel. She only had a towel wrapped around herself that was covering her body from her breasts till her upper thighs.


    She had a good time talking to Katherine over wine and snacks. But she kept missing someone, especially when Katherine was talking about Adam''s childhood. She had arrived half an hour earlier and decided to take a shower.


    The sky had started to turn dark, and she hasn''t heard a single word from Adam after their email exchanges in the morning. She was missing him like crazy. ''I hope he gets back soon.''


    She continued humming as her mind drifted back to the time she spent with Adam. She plugged in her phone to the sound system that was placed next to her dressing table. Going through her playlist, she finally found a good song and hit play.


    The song started playing and soon the sound of Anne Marie''s ''Ciao Adios'' filled the room. She turned up the volume and started moving her body to the music.


    Ask you once, ask you twice now


    There''s lipstick on your collar


    You say she''s just a friend now


    Then why don''t we call her?


    So you wanna go home with someone


    To do all the things you used to do to me


    I swear, I know you do


    Used to take me out in your fancy car


    And make out in the rain


    And when I ring you up


    Don''t know where you are


    ''Til I hear her say your name


    Used to sing along when you played guitar


    That''s a distant memory


    Hope she treats you better than you treated me,


    I''m onto you, yeah you


    I''m not your number one


    I saw you with her


    Kissing and having fun


    If you''re giving her all of your money and time


    I''m not gonna sit here wasting mine on you, yeah, you


    Ciao adios, I''m done


    Ciao adios, I''m done


    Ciao adios, I''m done


    She danced to the music as she dried hear hairs using the towel. Just as she was busy enjoying herself, her cell phone rang. She picked it up only to find it was a video call from Adam. She was on cloud nine. Turning off the music, she jumped on the bed and attended his call.


    Adam''s face appeared on the screen. He had a big smile on his face. He had missed her so much the entire day, but couldn''t contact her because of the meeting. It lasted longer than he expected. When he was finally done with the meeting, he had to meet some government officials to sort out the charges that were pressed against his company.


    As soon as he returned to his hotel room which was actually a presidential suite, he called his little elf. He wanted to see her pretty little face and those hazel eyes which could capture one''s soul. The smile on his face widened when he saw her face appeared on the screen. But his smile didn''t last long.


    When Stella moved to shift on her front, his eyes landed on her dress, or what exactly she was wearing at the moment. She was now resting on her front as her face was propped up on her elbows. She had out the phone down, making it lean against the headrest so that she didn''t have to hold it.


    Adam''s eyes widened as they landed on her cleavage. Even the upper part of her breasts were exposed for him to see. He gulped down shifting his eyes back to her face. He could see her hairs were still damp. ''She must have took a shower a while ago.'' He thought to himself. He decided to just go along how things were going.


    "Hey sweetheart!" Adam finally found his voice.


    "Hey! How was your day?" Stella beamed at him.


    "Boring. There''s nothing much for me to enjoy when you aren''t next to me." He replied. "But I guess a video call could fix that." He added as his eyes trailed back to her cleavage. He was feeling uncomfortable in his suit. It was suddenly getting hotter. He glanced at the AC to check whether it was working or not, and it was.


    "I didn''t have anything to do, so I went to meet Katherine. She told me about all of your embarrassing childhood moments." Stella spoke up with a smirk on her face.


    "Sweetheart? Did you just take a shower?" Adam couldn''t continue to pretend. ''Looks like she doesn''t even know that she only has a towel covering her assets.''


    "Yeah! I was deciding on which shirt should I wear with my maroon shorts when you called." Stella replied, still oblivious to the fact that she didn''t put the shirt on before picking up his call. "Why don''t you tell me which shirt should I wear? A White one or a black one?" She asked her turning her face to the single couch in the room. There were two button down shirts placed on it. It was only then she realized something.


    ''I was dancing in my room with a towel wrapped around me when Adam called me.'' She tilted her head down slightly. Her eyes fell on her breasts, a towel wrapped around them.


    "Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaah." She shrieked at the top of her lungs.

 Chapter 90 - Hallucinating

    "Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaah." She shrieked at the top of her lungs.


    Adam chuckled at her reaction. She looked as if she had seen some ghost. Stella picked up a pillow that was next to her and put it on the phone''s screen, covering the camera. She could still hear Adam''s laugh bursting through the phone''s speaker. It was like a soothing melody to her, but she wasn''t in the condition to enjoy it. She hastily made her way to the couch where her clothes were placed.


    Picking up her clothes, she put them on hurriedly. After making sure that she was dressed, she made her way back to her phone. The call was still connected. Adam still had a silly smile on his face. Stella laid down on the bed, picking up the phone. She held the phone before her face. Her lips were pursed in a pout as she was glaring at Adam.


    "Why didn''t you tell me this before?" She asked him.


    Adam only shrugged in response. "I did, eventually." He gave her a goofy smile.


    Stella could feel her anger melting away slowly. How could she stay angry with him? Specially when he smiles like that.


    "You are a bully." Stella murmured under her breath but Adam still caught on it.


    "When did I bully you sweetheart? Trust me, you wouldn''t be able to keep your hands off me the day I actually bully you." Adam winked at her.


    Stella could only roll her eyes at him. She knew she wouldn''t be able to win against him in a verbal confrontation. So, she decided to keep her mouth shut.


    "When will you come back?" Stella asked him.


    Adam heaved out a tired sigh. "It will take me at least three more days to wind up things here. The situation is actually worse than it seemed. It''s a good thing that you forced me to come here."


    "Three more days?" Stella gave him a sad smile.


    "I can''t do anything about it sweetheart." Adam replied with a heavy heart. It''s been only a single day and he could see the longing in her face. May be this distance will do them some good.


    "I know it''s not your fault. But I will miss you." Stella added with a soft smile on her face.


    "I will miss you too my baby girl." Adam replied softly looking intently at her face. Only he knew how bad he wanted to hug her at the moment and keep her in his arms.


    Stella could see the tiredness on his face. She had already noticed that he was still wearing his suit. "You should go and freshen up. Eat something then take some rest. No more work for the rest of the night." She spoke up, giving him a stern look.


    "No, keep talking to me." Adam replied as his eyebrows furrowed.


    "Adam! Do what I asked you to. And no buts." Stella spoke up, glaring daggers at him.


    "Alright! I will listen to you for now." Adam could only agree with her.


    "Good! We will talk tomorrow." Stella immediately replied to him. Her lips curling up in wide smile.


    "You don''t have to go to office till I come back sweetheart. There won''t be anything for you to do. Just stay at home and relax." Adam spoke up softly. "Take care of yourself Stella." He continued.


    "I will, you don''t have to worry about me. Just look after yourself. Don''t work too much. And you are probably right about the office. I will just keep in touch with Bella and work from here." Stella replied as she nodded her head. There was no need for her to go to the office. Since Adam was not there, she could not do her assistant job.


    "Good night! Sweet dreams." Adam added. "I will miss you."


    "I will miss you too." Stella replied. As she was about to disconnect the call, she heard Adam call her name.


    "Stella?" Adam softly called her name, his voice filled with tenderness.


    Stella looked at him, but he didn''t continue. She was about to ask him to continue, but he spoke up on his own.


    "I love you."


    Stella blinked her eyes several times, her mind was trying to register the words he had just said. She wanted to ask him to repeat what he had said. ''Maybe something is wrong with my ears. Or I am missing him so much that it is making me hallucinate things.''


    Coming out of her thoughts, Stella looked at the screen again only to find that the call was disconnected already.


    She buried her face in her pillow. Her mind was playing the words on repeat. When she was a teenager, she had always expected that her heart would beat like crazy when a boy would say those words to her. But right now, her heart didn''t beat like crazy, rather it was at peace. A peace that was causing a warmth spread throughout her body, seeping into her bones. She couldn''t describe the feeling in words. Her lips slowly broke into a goofy smile.


    -------------------------


    Adam looked at the black screen of her phone that was reflecting his own face. He didn''t know why he had called her name when she was about to disconnect the call. Before he could register it himself, the words had rolled off his tongue. The same words which he thought would never be uttered by him.


    He came out of his trance, his lips slowly curling up into a smile. He had found his one true love finally. He only understood his father''s word now.


    "You just know it." He had told him. And he knew it now.

 Chapter 91 - Three Or Four Sizes Too Big

    The next day,


    Stella woke up a bit later than usual with a bright smile on her face. She made her way towards her own room. She had slept in Adam''s room last night as well, snuggling his pillow.


    After getting dressed, she made her way downstairs. She was descending down the stairs with a jump in her step, when she heard a woman speaking in a pitchy voice.


    She was on the last step when her eyes landed on a head full of blonde hairs which were properly set up in a bun. The woman was wearing a skin tight black dress which hugged her perfect curves, stopping at her knees. She was wearing a pair of matching high heels.


    Even though she had her back towards her, Stella had a fair idea of who might this be. She could only roll her eyes. Who could that blonde woman be if not Rachel. ''And here goes my good mood.'' She thought to herself.


    "I told you Miss, Young Master isn''t here." Stella heard the old butler speaking politely.


    "I know he''s angry with me, I just want to apologise to him for my behavior." Rachel replied. She thought that Adam didn''t want to see her, that''s why he had asked the old butler to lie to her. As if sensing someone standing behind her, Rachel turned around with a big smile on her face.


    "I knew you wer¡­.." She swallowed the rest of her words when she was that it was not Adam but rather Stella who was standing on the last step of the staircase.


    "What are you doing here?" She narrowed her eyes at Stella.


    "Good morning Uncle Rob." Stella greeted the old butler with a polite smile on her face. She ignored Rachel like she was thin air.


    "Good morning Miss. I will ask the maids to prepare your breakfast. It will be done in twenty minutes." The old butler replied. He excused himself and headed towards the kitchen, leaving the two girls alone.


    "I asked you something." Rachel was glaring daggers at Stella. "What are you doing here?"


    "Why do you think so?" Stella replied without looking at her as she made her way towards the couch.


    "What else could I expect from a lowly secretary like you?" Rachel scoffed as she sat on the other couch, opposite to Stella. "Where''s Adam?"


    "He''s not home." Stella replied picking up a newspaper from the table.


    "Who the hell do you think you are to call this place home?" Rachel frowned hearing the way she had referred to the place as. "It''s his home. Not yours."


    "Where''s he?" Rachel asked her again when she didn''t hear a reply.


    "Italy." Stella replied with a single word, flipping through the pages of the newspaper.


    "Then what are you doing here if he''s not even here in the country?" Rachel was seeing red everywhere. ''Who does this slut think she is to treat this place as if she owns it?''


    "I am not answerable to you about where I stay or why?" Stella replied to her calmly. She was more focused on solving the crossword puzzle before her.


    "What did he even see in you?" Rachel added haughtily. Her eyes trailed up and down on Stella who was wearing a loose off-white button down shirt with a pair of gray ripped jeans. The shirt was clearly three or four sizes too big for her. One could tell that it wasn''t hers. She looked like a kitten who was put in a sack.


    Stella only shrugged in response. She was in no mood to entertain the evil witch sitting across her.


    "Let me tell you one thing clearly. I will make Adam mine, sooner or later. I will make him realize the mistake he had made by choosing you over me. You can enjoy this luxury till then because it won''t last long for you." Rachel smirked.


    "Are you done?" Stella finally raised her head from the newspaper and looked at her with her an impassive face. "If yes, then I will be going to have my breakfast. If not, I will still be going to have my breakfast. I would have asked you to join me, but you just said that this place doesn''t belong to me, so it won''t be appropriate." Stella continued, standing up from the couch.


    "I wish you best of luck for your plans and all. I hope I don''t see you again." Stella added as she made her way towards the dining room, leaving a seething Rachel behind. If it was something humanly possible then one could have seen smoke coming out of her ears.


    Rachel stomped out of the mansion once Stella was out of her sight, burning with rage. "I will ruin your life, you b****." She muttered under her breath, gritting her teeth.

 Chapter 92 - You Done Staring At Me?

    The day went by and the next arrived. It was almost midnight as Stella laid in Adam''s hed, snuggling against his pillow. They didn''t talk even once after their video call. She was worried about his whereabouts, but she understood that he might be busy. She tried to keep her mind at ease but couldn''t no matter how much she tried. Her eyes were set on the wall clock as she was lost in her thoughts.


    Her eyelids slowly became heavy with the clock''s ticking and she fell asleep eventually.


    Around 2 a.m someone entered the room with quiet steps. Wearing a black suit with a white button-down shirt and matching shoes he headed towards the bed. The suit had creases all over it as if he had slept in it, which was actually what happened.


    His gaze fell down on his beasty who was sleeping soundly hugging his pillow tightly and tucked under the duvet, looking like a harmless kitten. His eyes turned gentle, brimming with tenderness and care for his little elf.


    He had missed her so much that he couldn''t describe it in words. He had finished all of his work as early as he could, leaving the rest to his team there. His work could have taken one more day to finish. But he wanted to rush back to her, especially after what he had told her that day.


    He felt bad for not talking to her during this time, but he knew he wouldn''t be able to work if did and his stay there could have been extended, which was something he didn''t want to.


    He had just entered the mansion when the old butler had told him that she is in his room and had been sleeping in there since he had left. Knowing it had brought a smile on his face.


    Pressing a soft kiss on her forehead, he headed towards the bathroom to freshen up.


    After a quick shower he changed into a black trousers and got inside the covers. He moved closer to her slowly as if not to disturb her sleep. He wrapped an arm around her narrow waist. As if sensing him, Stella turned around and snuggled against his exposed chest.


    Adam chuckled softly at her actions. Her one arm draped over his muscular abdomen while the other one rested by her side.


    "Looks like you are drawn to me even in your sleep babygirl." He muttered under his breath. Pressing a lingering kiss on the crown of her head as he wrapped both of his arms around her back carefully.


    "Good night baby girl." He whispered softly as he closed his eyes. The tiredness from the last couple of days, swept over his body and he soon fell asleep.


    ----------------------


    The next morning, Stella woke up late. She was somehow feeling relaxed. Her body was engulfed in a familiar warmth that she had been missing for the last few days. Her eyes fluttered open, but she shut them again as the sunlight coming through the glass windows fell over her face. She slowly opened her eyes again, taking her time to adjust to the bright light.


    Taking in a deep breath, she squeezed the pillow that was in between her arms. But something didn''t feel right. She squeezed it once again, her eyebrows furrowing in the process. It wasn''t soft like before but hard.


    Her eyes shifted to the pillow only to be greeted by a muscular chest. Her eyes flew wide open, all the traced of sleep vanishing from her face as her heart started to beat faster.


    She slowly looked up, only to find the face which had turned her world upside down. She blinked a couple of times but the face didn''t go away. It was still there, right before her eyes and within her reach.


    She slowly raised her hand which was resting on his rock hard chest and traced her fingers over his sharp jawline. After confirming that she was not dreaming and he was really there, she traced her fingers over his stubble. ''Looks like he hadn''t shaved for a few days.'' She thought to herself.


    Her fingers moved over to his forehead. She brushed off a few strands of hair that was covering it. Her fingers moved down to his roman nose and then to his eyes, tracing over his eyelids. His thick lashes fluttered under touch. Tracing over his cheekbones, her fingers rested over his thin lips. She could never forget the way they move over hers.


    Only God knows how much she had missed him the past few days. She was more than happy that he was finally back. She clearly remembered the words he had told her that day on the video call. The way he looked at her when he had said that, his eyes filled with love and care. She remembered all of it. She wanted to hear them again.


    As she was busy taking a trip down memory lane, Adam opened his eyes. He looked back at her with a soft smile on his face.


    "You done staring at me sweetheart?" Adam spoke up slowly. His deep, magnetic voice brought her back to the present.

 Chapter 93 - Back Home

    "You done staring at me sweetheart?" Adam spoke up slowly. His deep, magnetic voice brought her back to the present.


    On being caught red-handed, a faint blush spread over her cheeks, tinting them a shade of soft pink.


    "Good morning." Stella spoke up meekly as she buried her face in his chest, trying to hide her blushing face.


    Adam shifted their bodies, pinning her down under his body. Stella yelped at his sudden actions.


    "It is indeed." He murmured against her neck, running down his nose over her fair skin, inhaling her scent which soothed his mind and intoxicated him at the same time.


    "A-Adam!" Stella muttered his name under her breath as she felt shivers running down her spine.


    "Yes, love." He replied as he peppered kisses over her neck.


    "We should go downstairs for our breakfast." She spoke in between her breaths.


    Adam hummed against her skin, but didn''t move and inch.


    "Adam?" She called him again.


    "Don''t move." He breathed out as his lips latched onto her soft spot, earning a moan in response.


    Stella clutched onto his shoulder blades as his lips were sucking on her fair skin. Her mind was getting dizzier as he kept sucking the spot.


    "Aahhhh!" Stella yelped when he bit the spot, licking it afterwards with his tongue.


    His lips finally let go of her neck. He raised his head to look at her face which was flushed by now. The sunlight coming through the glass windows, enlightened her face. Her hazel eyes flickering with a golden hue. Her naturally pink lips were parted slightly as she took deep breaths. She looked no less than and angel who had descended down from the heavens.


    "God knows how much I have missed you these past days." He murmured softly as his lips closed over hers.


    His tongue traced over the seam of her lips, asking for her permission to enter which she delightfully granted him.


    After kissing her senseless, Adam finally let go her lips. Both of them were a breathless mess.


    "It feels so good to be back home." Adam spoke up after catching his breath, giving her a goofy smile. For him, she was his home.


    -----------------------


    Adam and Stella were in his study. Stella sat on the couch while Adam was lying down on it, his head resting on her lap.


    Stella ran her fingers through his silky black hairs as he was filling her about what had happened in Italy. She was listening to him quietly and would nod her head every now and then.


    "I heard that you are back." A soft feminine voice interrupted the duo, making them look up at the door.


    Stella frowned looking at the owner of the voice. ''And she''s back.'' She thought to herself.


    Adam looked at the girl and only replied with a nod. He didn''t bother to move his head from Stella''s lap, and neither did she ask him to.


    "What are you doing here Rachel?" He asked her as she sat on the single sofa next to the couch. There was a hint of annoyance in his tone which was noticed by Stella. She couldn''t think of a reason behind it.


    Adam didn''t even bother greeting her. He had always turned a blind eye to her tactics as he knew her since they were kids. But no one can enter his house and bully his girl.


    Last night when he had arrived, the old butler had told him about her visit. He also told him about Rachel was saying to Stella as he had accidentally heard when was heading to the front lawn. It made his blood boil knowing that someone could look down on his little elf. She wasn''t someone to mind it, but he definitely was.


    "I was here to give you the invite." She replied to him, placing an invitation card on the table before her. "It''s my birthday next week. I am home after a long time, so Dad wanted to throw a party for me." She continued looking at the duo who was treating her like thin air.


    "Alright! I will be there." Adam replied as he enjoyed the feel of Stella''s finger massaging his scalp.


    "I will see you then." She scoffed and made her way out, seething in anger. ''How could he just ignore me like that?''


    "Do you have a dress that could be worn to a party?" Adam asked Stella.


    "I think that I do. Why do you ask?" Stella asked him, her eyes filled with confusion.


    "Of course you will be going with me." Adam replied. "Uncle Liam had already sent an invitation card for us earlier in the day." He continued.


    "Okay." Stella could only nod in response. She didn''t want to see Rachel, but she could not just say no to her god-father, could she?

 Chapter 94 - CLANK!!!

    The next few days went by. Adam was quite busy dealing with the work that was piled up in his absence. But no matter how busy he was dealing with his work or attending meetings after meetings, he would always make time for his little elf. They would eat their breakfast and dinner together, and sometimes lunch too.


    Soon the day of Rachel''s birthday party arrived. Luckily, it was a Saturday and the couple finally had time for themselves.


    After having their breakfast, the couple headed to the garden that was located beside the mansion. They laid down on the grass, Stella cushioning her head on his arm as if it was a pillow, for her, it actually was.


    Adam was lying down on his side, his eyes set on the girl, who was resting on his arm peacefully, with a soft smile embracing his lips.


    The weather was cloudy with no Sun to warm up the day, so he wasn''t worried about her getting sunburn.


    "Katherine told me that you used to stay away from girls all your life, even when you were in kindergarten." Stella spoke up out of nowhere, shifting slightly so that she could see his face.


    Adam shrugged in response. "Yeah!"


    "Why is that?" Stella asked him, giving him a questioning look.


    "I just find them too troublesome." Adam replied as he played with a lock of her hairs, twirling it around his finger.


    "Excuse me! Am I not a girl?" Stella asked him in return, glaring at him with her eyes narrowed and her lips puckered up in a pout.


    Adam looked up from her the brown locks of her hair. "You are, sweetheart, but I don''t find you troublesome." He spoke up softly, his deep gray eyes gazing into her hazel ones, filled with tenderness. "No matter how annoying or troublesome you become, you will always be my little beasty."


    Stella felt a warmth building up in her chest, spreading throughout her body.


    "You are good with your words." Stella replied meekly.


    "Oh baby girl! I am good at many things." Adam replied with a devilish grin. "Let me show you." He added as his hand went inside the baggy sweatshirt she was wearing.


    Stella gasped as his fingers started to caress her waist. Adam slowly leaned his face in, bringing his lips closer to hers. Before his lips could latch on hers, he heard someone clearing his throat.


    Turning his head around, he saw the old butler standing at a distance of a few steps away from them with his eyes cast down on the ground.


    "Uncle Rob?" Adam called out. He knew it must be something important, or else the old butler wouldn''t have interrupted them.


    "This came in for Ms. Stella with a package." The old butler replied making his way towards the couple.


    Adam gave Stella a questioning look to which she shrugged in response. Just like him, she had no idea about the package.


    Adam took the card that the old butler was holding without moving from his position.


    It was a plain white card having golden borders with something typed on it in black.


    ''I know you are invited for today''s party. Wear this dress. I chose it personally for you.''


    "What dress?" Stella asked the old butler before Adam could.


    "The card was delivered with a package, a big one. It seems to be a clothing rack which is covered with a black silk cloth. I think there''s a dress under it." The old butler replied to her politely.


    "Who sent this?" This time, it was Adam who had asked the question.


    "We don''t know that. It was left at the entrance. After making sure that it didn''t contain anything harmful, the guards brought it to the mansion." The old butler replied.


    "If it''s a dress than it must be from Katherine." Stella interrupted Adam''s thought.


    "Yeah! It seems like her." Adam replied after a while as he eyes the card in his hand.


    "Move the dress to Stella''s room." Adam asked the old butler as he passed the card back to him.


    The old butler nodded and left the couple alone.


    "So where were we?" Adam turned his head back to her once the old butler was out of his sight. His lips were curled up in a devilish smirk.


    Before Stella could register the meaning behind his words, his lips crashed onto hers. Adam shifted his body such that he was hovering over her now. His one hand was holding both of hers, pinning them above her head, while the other one was supporting his weight as his lips hungrily sucked on to hers.


    --------------------


    Adam was waiting in the living room for Stella. It had been almost twenty minutes now. He was sitting on a couch, tapping his right foot on the floor as he waited for her.


    He was wearing a smokey gray checkered suit with a white button-down shirt and a black vest. The top two buttons of his shirt was undone, giving him a carefree yet majestic look. He was sporting a pair of matte black leather boots.


    His one hand was resting on the back of the couch while the other one was on the arm rest, holding his phone as he was scrolling through his emails.


    He was getting impatient was about to go upstairs when he heard the sound of heels clicking against the floor. He raised his head and was about to her for taking so long to get ready, but the words got stuck in his throat.


    ''ClLANK!!!'' His phone slipped through his fingers, clattering against the marbled floor. The sound resonating in the quiet living room.

 Chapter 95 - Birthday Party (1)

    Stella entered the room with slow and steady steps, her golden heels, clinking against the marbled floor.


    She was wearing a full-sleeved, floor length gown. It was a champagne golden gown made of tulle with a matching lining that covered her body except for the sleeves which were completely see through. The deep v-neck of dress was showing her exquisite clavicles. The gown had a A-line cut, hugging her waist perfectly and showing her hourglass figure. The dress was decorated with golden pearls and beads, making it unique and elegant.


    Her hairs were let down, falling into waves over her back and shoulders, framing her small face which was covered with minimal makeup. She had applied a golden brown eyeshadow over her eyelids where the corners had some black shade blended with the golden one, along with the eyeliner and mascara. Her cheeks were tinted with a shade of soft pink blush while her cheekbones were highlighted, glowing under the pale light of the living room. She had applied some rosy lip shade over her lips. She was not wearing any jewelry except for the ring that he had given her. The golden ring which had a single small diamond in the centre, compliment the elegant dress.


    Adam looked at her with an awestruck expression. Though the dress was not exposing much of her skin, it still made her look seductive yet innocent.


    Stella took slow steps towards Adam who was still sitting on the couch. When she was right before him, he returned back to his senses and stood. His eyes never leaving her face. Stella held the lapels of his coat and put a feather shaped golden pin on the left side which matched with her dress.


    After putting the pin securely she once again fixed the lapels.


    "I got this for you. Do you like it?" She looked up at him with hopeful eyes, her hands still resting over his chest. She had bought this pin the last week when they went out for shopping. The little pin had caught her eyes and she quietly bought it when went out of the store to pick up a call. She wanted to give it to him but couldn''t find the right moment to. This seems like the perfect moment to.


    Adam was still lost in his own world, admiring the beauty before him. Stella pinched his nose bridge to bring him back out of his thoughts.


    "Do you like it?" She asked him once again, pointing her finger at the pin.


    "Of course I do." Adam replied as he wrapped his arms around her petite waist.


    "You haven''t even looked at it yet." Stella pouted at his reply.


    "I will like anything that you give me sweetheart." Adam added with a toothy grin.


    Stella continued her pouting as her eyebrows furrowed. Adam heaved out a sigh and finally looked at the pin. Though it was a simple one, but he liked it. It was something that he would have chosen for himself as well.


    "I love it." He replied looking at the girl in his arms. He placed a soft kiss on the tip of her nose.


    Stella''s lips broke into a smile like a child who had just gotten his favorite toy. In her moment of happiness, she hugged Adam. Her head resting on his shoulder while her arms were wrapped around his broad back.


    Adam''s smile widened at her actions and he hugged her back quietly.


    ---------------------


    "Hey!!!!" Stella greeted Blake who had just joined the couple. He had an arm wrapped around a girl''s waist. It was the same girl about which she had confronted Blake. Lillian. She was wearing a bright red spaghetti strap dress which had a long slit on the right side. She was sporting a pair of matching high heels and her lips were painted with a bright red lip color. Her hairs were tied up in a bun, exposing her slender neck. She was looking like a seductress.


    "Hey, Lillian." Stella greeted her with a wide smile on her face.


    Adam only nodded at the duo.


    "So, she said yes, didn''t she?" Stella asked, turning her head towards Blake.


    "She did." Blake replied with a grimace. "She said yes to be my partner for tonight." He continued after a pause.


    Stella chuckled at his reaction.


    "Don''t give up so easily. You just have to work hard for it." Adam interrupted.


    "Yeah, yeah! I know." Blake replied with a pout.


    Lillian, who was standing with them quietly, only shook her head at her Boss'' reaction. She sometimes wonder how could he, who can kill someone without batting his eyes, can be so childish at times. She heaved out a sigh, her eyes set on the man who was holding her by her waist.


    Her eyes suddenly turned sharp when she saw a certain someone approaching them.

 Chapter 96 - Birthday Party (2)

    A girl sporting a black strapless dress, walked towards them. The dress had a long slit on the right side, exposing her long, fair leg. Her blonde hairs were tied up in a bun leaving her fair slender neck exposed which was sporting a diamond choker necklace.


    She walked straight to Adam, ignoring the rest. Her bright red lips curling up in a bright smile, showing off her pearly white teeth.


    "It''s good to know that you made it here." Rachel spoke to Adam, who only nodded his head.


    "Happy birthday to you. I didn''t get the time to buy you a gift but I will send one later." Adam added.


    Rachel could feel the bile rising up in her throat. ''How could he forget to get her a birthday gift?'' She kept her thoughts to herself.


    "It''s no big deal. You came to my birthday party. That''s enough for me." She replied, trying to make herself look as innocent as she could. "By the way, Dad was asking for you and your friend." She continued, pointing towards Blake.


    She hated him since they were teenagers. He always stuck around Adam, not leaving him alone. If it wasn''t for him, Adam and her could have been in a relationship when they were in high school.


    Blake rolled his eyes at her. He didn''t like her either. Since her teenage years, the girl had been wanting to be with Adam.


    "Alright, where is he?" Adam asked her to which she pointed towards the front of the hall. "He was there a while ago."


    Adam kissed Stella on the crown on her head. "I will be back in a while. Do not drink too much." He added, giving her a stern look.


    Stella bobbed her head up and down. It''s not like she had any other choice.


    Blake pulled Lillian closer, their bodies almost sticking together.


    "Don''t miss me too much babe." He spoke up, kissing her cheek. "Keep an eye on her." He whispered softly next to her ear after withdrawing his lips.


    Lillian nodded her head, understanding what he had said. "You too babe." She replied with a wink.


    Adam and Blake left the girls on their own, heading towards the direction in which Rachel had pointed earlier.


    Lillian and Stella went towards the bar and asked the bartender to prepare their drinks. After their drinks were served, they started talking about the men in their lives.


    "Why didn''t you say yes to him? The poor guy looked so heartbroken earlier when I had asked him about it." Stella spoke up taking a sip of her champagne.


    "I can''t." Lillian replied, looking at the glass in her hand.


    "Why? Don''t you like him?" Stella asked her in return.


    "He''s my boss." Lillian replied with a poker face, not letting her emotions break through her strong front.


    "Adam was my boss. He still is." Stella was trying to understand her. She couldn''t think of a single reason why she wouldn''t say yes to Blake. She had seen with her own eyes the way he treated her. It was just like how Adam treated her. May be their ways were different, but their intentions were the same.


    "It''s different with us." Lillian replied, taking a sip of her red wine. "I owe him everything I have today. Even my life." She continued.


    "I don''t know why would you say that." Stella spoke up. "But that''s what you feel. Does he feel the same way?" She continued after a pause. Her eyes were set on the girl sitting next to her.


    Lillian was swirling the glass in between her fingers. She stopped in between her actions as she heard Stella.


    ''Did Blake feel the same way? Did he think the same as she do?'' The gears in her mind started to move. ''She was the only one who was allowed to enter his room. She was the only one who could do whatever she feels like doing at his club. She was the only one who was allowed to call him by his name. She was an exception for him in so many things.''


    "I guess he doesn''t." She spoke up after a minute. Her lips curled up in a sad smile as she looked at Stella. "But I can''t say yes to him until I don''t feel it too." She continued.


    Stella nodded her head understandingly.


    Just then, Rachel approached the duo with a waiter following her.


    "Hey!" She spoke up, waving her hand at them.


    Both Stella and Lillian turned to look at her with confusion written on their faces.


    "I hope you guys are enjoying the party." Rachel spoke up when she didn''t hear a reply from either.


    "Except for the music, it seems okay-ish." Lillian replied to her with a bored expression on her face. She was referring to the soft music that was playing in the background. It seemed to be a lullaby to her.


    "Oh! I agree with you. But you know how some of these big people are." Rachel shrugged her shoulders, giving her a friendly smile. She turned her head towards Stella, who was sitting there quietly.


    "Stella, I actually needed to have a word with you." She spoke up, her friendly smile turning into a sad one.

 Chapter 97 - Birthday Party (3)

    "Stella, I actually needed to have a word with you." She spoke up, her friendly smile turning into a sad one.


    "What is it?" Stella replied without looking at her. Her hazel eyes met Lillian''s forest green ones for a fleeing second before they turned back to the champagne flute in her hand.


    "Can we not talk about it here? Let''s go to my room. Lillian can also tag along." Rachel replied to her with hopeful eyes.


    Stella looked at Lillian who softly nodded her head in a yes.


    "Alright! Sure." Stella replied, standing from her barstool.


    Rachel guided the two to her room with the waiter from earlier in tow. Once they were inside her room, she asked them to sit on the couch courteously. After asking the waiter to put the tray which he was carrying down, she asked him to leave them alone. She sat on a sofa chair, next to them.


    "I just wanted to apologise for how I spoke the last time we met. I reflected on my behavior and it made me feel guilty. So, I am sorry." Rachel spoke up with guilt written all over her face.


    "If Adam doesn''t like me, then there''s nothing I could do about it." Rachel continued.


    "It''s alright! I don''t even remember what you said to me that day." Stella replied with a polite smile. She wasn''t even paying attention to her that day. How is she supposed to remember what nonsense she spouted? She just wanted to go back downstairs to Adam. She was starting to miss him already.


    "Thank you Stella." Rachel gave her a toothy smile, showing off her pearly white teeth which were properly aligned. "Here''s to you." She said passing a wine glass to Stella and one to Lillian.


    She picked up the last glass placed on the table and raised it up it the air.


    "What''s that?" Lillian spoke up out of nowhere, pointing her finger at something behind Rachel.


    Rachel turned her head around only to see a vase sitting in the corner of the room. "Dad got me that from somewhere. I don''t really know much about it except for the fact that it''s pretty."


    When she was busy talking about the base, Lillian switched her glass with Stella''s.


    Stella looked at her with a confused expression but decided to keep her mouth shut.


    Rachel turned back to face them with a wide smile on her face.


    "That''s a really pretty vase." Lillian added with a poker face.


    "I know right." Rachel replied back cheekily. "Oh! Cheers by the way." She continued, raising her glass towards them.


    "Cheers!" Stella and Lillian replied with a bored expression with a bored expression on her face, clinking their glasses with hers.


    After making sure that Stella had finished most of her drink, Rachel chugged down her wine.


    "Look at the time, people must be wondering where the birthday girl is." Rachel spoke up, standing up from the sofa. "I should be going downstairs now, even though I want to spend my time with the two of you. You guys can stay here as long as you like. Treat the place as your own." She continued and headed towards the door.


    After she was out, Lillian stood up from the couch and threw the remaining of her drink into one of the pots that was in the balcony.


    "What are you doing?" Stella couldn''t resist anymore and finally asked her.


    "Nothing." Lillian replied as she made her way towards the door. She had merely acted on her instincts. She knew what type of person she was. She wasn''t one to apologise even if it was her who was at fault. Staying beside Blake for so long, she had learned a few things. One of them was to never trust a sudden change in someone''s behavior.


    "Why did you switch our drinks?" Stella asked her, leaning her back against the couch.


    "I think it was most probably drugged." Lillian replied as she leaned her back against the door.


    "How do you know that?" Stella narrowed her eyes at her. "And then why did you drink it yourself?" She added.


    "I didn''t finish the drink. She was waiting for you to finish yours before leaving. So, she didn''t pay any attention to me. I merely took a few sips. I will be fine." Lillian replied with a bored expression on her face. She was still leaning against the door, as if waiting for someone.


    "We should go back downstairs." Stella spoke up. She was getting worried about Lillian. She shouldn''t have agreed to Rachel.


    "We will..." Lillian spoke up to reply to her but stopped midway. She placed a finger on her lips, asking Stella to stay quiet to which she complied. She moved away from the door and switched off the lights, making the room turn completely dark.


    A devilish smirk graced her lips as she focused on the heavy footsteps coming towards the room.

 Chapter 98 - Whos There?

    The door of the room, flew open as a large bulky man who was clad in black, stepped inside. Seeing the room engulfed in darkness, he was taken aback. His eyes roamed around the room as he stepped towards the wall, his hands searching for the switch.


    Before his hands could locate the switch, he felt something moving behind him.


    "Who''s there?" He asked in his heavy voice but heard no reply. Before he could speak up again, a hand struck his neck, hard, making him unconscious. His body fell on the floor with a loud thud.


    Lillian turned on the lights, making Stella squint her eyes.


    "We should go back downstairs and enjoy the party." Lillian spoke up, her voice soft and calm. "How are you feeling by the way?" She continued without waiting for Stella''s reply.


    "I am feeling fine. Just like I was feeling before coming up here." Stella replied to her, standing up from the couch and making her way towards her.


    "It means she must have only drugged your drink." Lillian replied as she stepped out of the room with Stella following her closely.


    "But why would she do that?" Stella asked with confusion written over her face. "Why not drug both of our drinks?" She continued, not forgetting to shut the door close on their way out.


    "Have a look at me." Lillian asked her, pointing her finger at her face. "What is the first word that comes to your mind?"


    "Beautiful." Stella replied immediately without giving it much thought.


    "Exactly!" Lillian gave her a smirk. "She must have thought that the guy inside can easily deal with me."


    Stella nodded her head in agreement. Even she was taken aback when she saw the bulky man splayed on the floor unconscious.


    ----------------


    Adam and Blake was having a chat with Liam as they sipped on their drinks. Both of them would glance at their wrist watches every now and then.


    "Looking at your watches after every minute won''t make the time go any faster." Liam spoke up, giving the two an annoyed look.


    "There''s no harm in trying." Adam replied with a smirk only to get his head smacked by Liam.


    "You guys don''t even meet me anymore. And when you finally do, you are more concerned about your girlfriends." Liam was pouting like a child. Just like Adam, he also knew Blake since his childhood.


    "Lillian isn''t Blake''s girlfriend." Adam corrected him.


    "Hey man! Did you really have to say it?" Blake interrupted him with a scowl on his face.


    "I was just stating a fact." Adam replied with a lazy expression.


    "Whether she is his girlfriend or not, both of you are so whipped." Liam interrupted their childish banter.


    "Who''s whipped?" Rachel interrupted them. Her lips were curled up in a soft smile.


    "No one." Blake replied with an annoyed look. ''And here comes the party pooper.''


    "Where are your partners?" Rachel asked Adam and Blake, her lips curling up in a sweet smile.


    Before they could reply, Liam interrupted them. "There they are." He said, raising his champagne flute behind her back.


    Rachel turned around, her eyebrows furrowing. Her eyes landed on Lillian first who was walking towards them with her lips curled up in a smirk. Stella was walking next to her with no evident expression on her face.


    Both Lillian and Stella greeted Liam, kissing him on his cheeks at the same time.


    "You ladies look so beautiful." He complimented them as they turned to their boyfriends/bosses.


    Adam wrapped an arm around Stella''s waist as he brought her closer to him. Stella allowed him to do as he pleased.


    Blake did the same to Lillian who didn''t mind it either.


    "Rachel was just asking for you guys." Liam spoke up with a cheerful voice.


    "We just met earlier. Don''t tell me you were missing us already?" Lillian was the one to reply. Her eyes narrowed at her as her lips slowly turned up into a lop-sided grin.


    Rachel could feel shivers running down spines. She gulped down the remaining content of her glass in one go.


    Blake''s eyes were set on the girl in her arms. The look she was giving to Rachel could only mean one thing, she must have done something. He knew his girl too well. His eyes trailed down her figure, looking for an injury. He heaved a sigh of relief when his sharp eyes didn''t find one.


    "We are leaving. I just remembered that I have something to deal with." Blake spoke up. He bid his good-byes to Liam, Adam and Stella as Lillian did the same.


    Adam was slightly confused by him leaving so suddenly but decided to ignore it for now. If only he knew the reason behind it, he would have done the same thing.

 Chapter 99 - Where We Left...

    Adam and Stella arrived at the mansion after midnight. Adam carried her upstairs princess style.


    Stella had her arms wrapped around his neck as her face was resting in the crook of his neck. She had her eyes closed peacefully. Her mind drifted back to what had happened at the party. Her body shook in fear as she thought about what might have happened if Lillian wasn''t there with her.


    Adam felt her body tremble in his arms and tightened her grip around her body.


    "You alright sweetheart?" He asked her, his voice laced with worry. He didn''t hear her reply but felt her nodding her head against his neck. He heaved a sigh of relief as he stepped into his room with her in his arms.


    Since he had returned from his trip, the couple have been sleeping together in his room. Though Stella was adamant not to give in to his request, he had his own ways to make her say yes. He wanted to move her belongings and stuff to his room as well but decided against it. He knew his precious will go crazy if he even proposed the idea of doing that.


    After entering in his room, he made her sit on the bed as he went down on his knees to help her remove her stilettos.


    "Adam, I can do that on my own." Stella tried to retract her foot which he was holding in his hands but his firm grip didn''t let her.


    "Shhh!" His fingers worked swiftly on the straps of her stiletto. Stella did not have any other choice, so she just decided to sit back and enjoy being pampered by her boyfriend.


    She gazed at his handsome profile, her eyes memorizing every single detail. ''How could someone be so perfect?'' She was too lost in her thoughts to realize that he had already removed both of her heels and was looking back at her.


    "I know that I am handsome and all, but you don''t have to stare at me as if you are going to eat me." Adam''s remark brought her back to the present, a crimson shade tinting her cheeks on being caught.


    "What''s with that face now babygirl? You could stare at me as long as you want to. I am all yours." Adam spoke up. He was holding her chin in between his fingers, tilting it up so that he could look into her eyes. When Stella finally managed to look up, she was shocker by the sight.


    Her eyes met his deep gray ones, which look a bit darker than usual. She could feel the desire he held in them for her.


    Adam stood up and leaned his head towards her.


    "Do you know how badly I have been wanting to kiss you? Do you know how gorgeous you are looking? So much that I just want to peel this dress off you. I have been trying to control myself all night long, but I don''t think that I can do it anymore." He murmured in a husky voice, sending shivers down her spine.


    Stella gasped as she saw his lips hovering above hers. She saw his lips closing in and closed her eyes. She was waiting for his lips to claim hers, but¡­.


    ''RINGGG!''


    Adam''s phone started to ring and it was a tune that he had set specially for Blake.


    Stella opened her eyes with a jolt. She was Adam''s lips turning into a scowl as he reluctantly stepped back.


    "You should go and freshen up sweetheart." He spoke up. Stella nodded and stood up from the bed, making her way to the bathroom.


    "Don''t worry baby girl, we will continue where we left." Adam''s voice came from behind her, making her run to the bathroom.


    Adam chuckled at her reaction. She was acting like a scared little kitten.


    When he saw the bathroom''s door being shut, his carefree expression turned to an arctic one as his finger slid on the phones screen, connecting the call.


    "This better be important." He spoke up into the phone''s speaker.


    "It is." Blake replied with his voice as cold as Antarctica itself.


    -----------------


    Adam was standing before the French glass windows of his room. He looked out at the night sky which was as dark as it could get. Even though it was a cloudless sky, not a single star was shining in the distance for one to feast his eyes on. It looked gloomy and bleak, just like Adam''s mood right now.


    Blake had told him about the incident that happened at the party, not leaving out a single detail. His blood was boiling in anger. He would have probably killed Rachel by now. How dare she even thought about doing something like that to his little elf?


    ''Looks like I have been too lenient in dealing with people.'' He thought.


    He felt a pair of slender arms wrapping around his trunk as a head rested on his back. His tensed muscles easing as Stella drew small circles on his chest with her dainty fingers, the gloomy expression on his face turning into a tender one.


    He turned around and hugged her back, crushing his body against his.


    "Why didn''t you tell me?" He spoke up in a low voice, but enough for Stella to hear.


    She was confused for a little while before realization dawned on her. ''Blake! You idiot!'' She cursed him inwardly.


    "I didn''t want you to worry. And I am completely fine, aren''t I?" She replied softly, still rubbing his back.


    "You not telling me things, worries me more." Adam replied. He was sulking like a child with his face buried in the crook of her neck as he inhaled in her scent which was a mixture of lavender and vanilla.


    "I am sorry." Stella added, withdrawing from the hug. She looked at Adam''s face which was contoured in an unpleasant expression.


    She saw that he was still wearing the same clothes, except for the coat, which must be lying somewhere on the floor.


    She tugged on the collar of his shirt, bringing his face near hers. Standing on her toes, she crashed her lips against his, taking him by surprise.

 Chapter 100 - Sweet Dreams My Love

    She tugged on the collar of his shirt, bringing his face near hers. Standing on her toes, she crashed her lips against his, taking him by surprise.


    Adam''s eyes widened in surprise at the sudden assault on his lips. He looked at her eyes which were tightly shut, her eyes lashes fluttering as her soft, warm lips moved over his firm, cold ones, slowly but with hesitation.


    He closed his eyes and responded to her kiss. He sucked on her lips before thrusting his tongue into her mouth. His delirious tongue explored every nook and cranny of her mouth, making a soft moan escape from her mouth.


    Her moan was like a spark, burning his insides and putting them on fire. He tightened his grip around her waist, bringing her body impossibly close to his. His hands traveled down to her derriere. Stella felt shivers running down her spine.


    Without breaking the kiss, Adam picked her up, his hands supporting her thighs as she wrapped her legs around his broad waist. Her hands moved up to


    Holding her up, he made his way towards the king-sized bed. After putting her down on the bed carefully, he finally let go of her lips.


    "Do you know how enticingly hot you are looking right now?" Adam spoke up in a husky voice. He was staring intently into her hazel eyes. He didn''t know why but they somehow held the tendency to ease his worries.


    His thoughts drifted back to the call, making him clench his jaws together. He wanted to tear everything apart. ''No one who even dare to hurt his precious little elf should be left unscathed.''


    As if sensing the change in his emotions, Stella cupped his face.


    "I am alright, aren''t I?" Stella spoke up, caressing his cheeks with her thumbs while she admired his features. ''How can a man gets to have such a smooth skin?'' She thought to heart.


    "Do you know how I felt when I came to know about it? What might have happened to you if Lillian wasn''t there? You can not even differentiate between your friends and foes." Adam replied, placing a soft kiss on her palm.


    "I agreed to go upstairs with her because Lillian was there with me. I am not that dumb." Stella puckered her lips in a pout.


    "You sure?" Adam replied with a smirk, making Stella roll her eyes in annoyance.


    "But you have to make it up to me for trying to keep it a secret." Adam continued, a devilish grin embracing his lips.


    "And how can I do that?" Stella asked in return as she narrowed her eyes at him.


    "I will I ask Uncle Rob to get your belongings shifted to my room tomorrow." Adam replied to her, kissing her cheeks.


    "NO! You won''t do that." Stella turned him down once again.


    "Okay." Adam replied with a poker face as he shifted to his side, lying down on the bed.


    As soon as he moved away from her, Stella began to miss his warmth. She moved closer to him, turning around so that she was lying on her stomach now.


    "Adam?" She called his name softly.


    "What?" He replied to her, grumpily.


    "Are you mad at me?" She asked him.


    "Why would I be mad at you? How can I do that? You can do as you please." He replied without looking at her. His eyes were focused somewhere in the distance.


    Heaving a frustrated sigh, Stella rolled her eyes at the grumpy man next to her.


    "Alright, alright! I will ask Uncle Rob myself to shift my things to your room in the morning. Happy now?" She spoke up with a sweet voice. Her lips were curled up in a faint smile which could hardly be detected, her slightly widened eyes were on his face as she looked at him intently.


    "Very much." He replied as his lips broke into a smile, showing off his perfectly aligned and white teeth. He opened his arms for her to jump into them.


    Stella snuggled against her own personalized giant teddy bear and closed her eyes.


    "Good night Adam." She murmured softly against his chest.


    "Good night sweetheart." He replied as one of his hands slowly rubbed her back while the other one was holding her in place.


    When he heard her even breathing after a while, he shifted her position to a more comfortable one but made sure that her head was still resting on his shoulder. He pulled up the duvet up such that it was covering both of them.


    He placed a lingering kiss on her forehead.


    "I won''t let anyone harm you my angel." He murmured softly against her forehead. "Sweet dreams my love."


    He closed his eyes off and drifted off to his dreamland.

 Chapter 101 - Six Feet Under The Ground

    Stella woke up the next morning with an empty space beside her. She groggily opened her eyes, giving them time to adjust to the light that was seeping through the net curtains which were drawn together, diminishing it''s intensity.


    Stretching her hands in the air, she tried to stifle a yawn which still made its way through her lips. Her eyes moved to the spot beside her, only to find that he wasn''t next to her. She pouted as her eyebrows furrowed in a deep frown.


    She dragged her body unwillingly to the bathroom, but Adam wasn''t there as well.


    "May be he went downstairs." She muttered under her breath, scratching the back of her head.


    After her morning shower, she headed to the dining room with a jump in her step, but didn''t find him here. The maid brought her breakfast and placed it down on the table.


    She murmured thanks to her and started poking the Eggs Benedict with her fork with no intention of eating it. She found it difficult to enjoy her breakfast without him these days.


    "This is for you." The old butler interrupted her thoughts as he passed her a paper which was folded in half.


    "Thank you." She murmured her thanks to the old butler, taking the piece of paper from his hand. Opening it, she found something scribbled on it in bold and powerful strokes.


    With once glance, she recognized the writing to be Adam''s. She had become all too familiar with it.


    ''Don''t go around poking your breakfast with your fork, eat it. I had to take care of something. I will be back before you know it.


    EAT IT!


    Love,


    Adam''


    Stella''s heart melted just like a marshmallow which was put in the oven. She placed the note next to her plate and started digging into her food finally.


    The old butler quietly poured her a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice and left her alone to enjoy her meal.


    Stella happily ate her food and finished it soon. Her eyes kept darting towards the note, especially on the last two lines of it.


    ''Love,


    Adam''


    She giggled as she made her way back to his room, her lips curled up in a smile.


    After picking up a few things from the bedroom, she made her way to the study. Since she didn''t have anything else to do, she decided to catch up on her work. She had become too lazy, all thanks to a certain someone.


    While Stella was busy going through some documents, someone was having a really bad day.


    ----------------


    An enraged Adam, walked into the mansion with his face held up high and his eyes burning with bloodlust.


    Without waiting for anyone to welcome him, he direct made his way upstairs, heading to a certain someone''s room which he was all too familiar with. He had spent half of his childhood here and knew the place like the back of his hand.


    Standing before a light brown wooden door with intricate carvings on it, he knocked at the door a couple of times in a rough manner. He couldn''t care any less about disturbing the person''s sleep.


    He kept knocking at the door which finally was opened from inside.


    A disheveled Rachel stood there with anger evident on her face. "Do you want to die so early in the morning?" She spoke up hastily, but regretted it as soon as the words had left her mouth when she realized who it was.


    "I am not sure about me but you surely want to die." Adam replied, gritting his teeth in angst.


    "Did you think I wouldn''t come to know about the little stunt you tried to pull off last night with my girl." He continued.


    "I didn''t know that Stella was such a tattletale." Rachel replied, her lips turning up into a scowl. She didn''t even bother denying her wrongdoings because she knew for a fact that it was useless to do it.


    "If you weren''t Uncle Liam''s daughter, you would have been six feet under the ground by now." Adam''s lips curled up in a devilish smirk, one which could make anyone tremble in fear.


    Rachel''s face became ghastly pale as his words settled down in her mind. This was the Adam Levinson that everyone in the business circle of Germany knew of. She was all too familiar with this side of his. She, in fact, grew up with him. Even though they grew apart in highschool, but she continued to keep an eye on him.


    Before waiting for her to reply, Adam continued. "This is my last warning for you. Stay away from Stella. I don''t even want to see you anywhere near her."


    "Get that through your thick skull." He added, punching the wall next to the door, making her jump at the sudden action. He narrowed his eyes at her one last time before heading back down to his car.


    Rachel''s eyes trailed to the wall next to the wooden door. Looking at the slight dent in it, she gulped down her saliva.

 Chapter 102 - Wear A Sack

    It was almost lunch time when Adam arrived at the mansion. After dealing with Rachel, he decided to pay Blake a visit. Just as usual, he entered his room without knocking. But what graced his eyes will surely be remembered by him.


    Shaking his head sideways, he tried to jerk off the image that was popping up in his mind. After greeting Uncle Rob on the way, his feet carried him to his study. He had a hunch that she might be there. Unlike other girls, she preferred to pass her time doing office work rather than watching movies or TV series.


    He opened the dark wood door and entered. Just like he had thought, she was sprawled over the couch with a couple of files and papers scattered on the table, along with her laptop. Her right leg was dangling down from the sofa as her eyes were shut.


    "Looks like she fell asleep going through the paperwork." He muttered to himself as his feet continued to take him to his loved one.


    He placed a soft kiss on her forehead, carefully as not to disturb her nap.


    His mood had already brightened up by just looking at her face. One glance at his little elf and the heavy gray clouds looming over him disappeared.


    As if sensing someone''s presence beside her, Stella opened her eyes slowly, and as soon as she did, a handsome face blessed.


    "You are back." She muttered in a groggy voice as her lips curled up in a smile. She stretched her arms and wrapped them around his neck before he could move away.


    Adam hummed in response and let her do as she pleased. He wouldn''t mind even if she wrapped herself around him, let alone her arms.


    She pouted and pointed a finger at her lips.


    "I did not get my morning kiss today." She spoke up sulking like a child.


    Adam''s eyes darkened at her actions and without any delay, he crashed his lips over hers.


    Stella moaned as his skillful tongue entered her mouth. The sound of her soft moans, which sounded seductive to Adam, drove him more crazy.


    He bit and sucked on her lips again and again, making her dizzier with each passing second. Stella couldn''t take it anymore and tapped his shoulder with his hand.


    Adam groaned and reluctantly let go of her lips, allowing her to finally breath. As Stella took deep breaths to calm her nerves down, Adam picked her up and settled on the couch with her in his arms. He placed her on his lap and hugged her close to himself as she took deep breaths, slowly rubbing her back.


    "Stella?" Adam spoke up softly when her breathing had become normal.


    Stella only hummed in return as she rubbed her face into his chest like a kitten.


    "Blake and Uncle Liam will be coming over for dinner tonight." He continued. "And don''t worry, Rachel won''t be coming over."


    He felt Stella nodding her head against his chest. They stayed there in the same position for a little longer, enjoying the moment.


    ----------------------


    Every single maid and servant was busy with their work that was appointed to them by the old butler. They wanted to finish it as soon as possible.


    The old butler stood there in the kitchen, supervising their work. He wanted everything to be perfect.


    Unlike the storm that was brewing downstairs in the kitchen, the couple was peacefully lying down on the king-sized bed in Adam''s room.


    "I can''t decide what to wear for the dinner." Stella spoke up. She was lying down on her torso as she watched Adam scrolling through his emails on his iPad.


    "You can wear a sack, and you will still look good in it." Adam replied without taking his eyes off the screen of his iPad.


    Stella pouted at his lack of interest, though he was speaking from the bottom of his heart. To him, she would always look good, even if she wore rags.


    Stella sat down on her knees and moved closer to him. She jumped on him and snatched the iPad away from his hands. After putting it down next to her, she looked back at Adam only to find a pair of hungry gray eyes looking at her. It was only then that she realized the compromising position she was sitting in. She was straddling him, right over his crotch.


    She was only wearing a black thong and a white button-down shirt. The shirt was Adam''s, so it covered till her upper thighs. But during the stunt she had pulled off just now, it moved a bit higher. Her legs were exposed for him to stare and a part of her thong was also visible.


    Adam gulped at the sight before him, or more specifically, that was over him. He could feel his little partner down there, hardening up.


    Stella tried to move away from him but her efforts were futile as Adam''s arm had made their way around her waist, holding her in place.


    "Don''t move. You are only making it worse sweetheart." Adam spoke up in a husky voice.


    A faint blush spread over her cheeks. She could feel something hard poking her womanhood. It didn''t need a genius to know what it was.


    Adam shifted slightly in the bed, to ease his discomfort but his actions only caused friction in between their private parts through the fabrics.


    Adam''s gaze darkened further as he saw Stella''s face turning a deep shade of red as a weird and unfamiliar sensation developed in her lower abdomen.

 Chapter 103 - Guests

    Adam''s gaze darkened further as he saw Stella''s face turning a deep shade of red as a weird and unfamiliar sensation developed in her lower abdomen.


    With one swift movement, Adam switched their positions, pinning her to the mattress as his body hovered over hers. He looked down at her hungrily, his gray eyes turning dark.


    He shifted his weight to his knees, straddling her but not putting his weight down on her. Leaning his head in, he claimed her lips.


    Stella''s hand found their way to his silky black hairs, her fingers clutching the locks. Her mind was becoming hazy.


    Adam would suck her lips for a while, then bit down the lower one, licking the spot afterwards. He repeated this, again and again, driving Stella crazy. His hands then moved down to the buttons of her shirt. His skillful fingers worked their way and opened all of them while his firm lips continued their assault on her soft ones.


    He withdrew back slightly to admire the beauty before him. His darkened eyes shifted from her flushed face to her now exposed chest.


    She was wearing a black bra which contrasted perfectly with her fair skin.


    Adam gulped down a mouthful of saliva when his eyes settled on her two mounds which were moving up and down as Stella took deep breaths.


    Leaning his head back in, his lips trailed down from the back of her ear to the junction of her neck and shoulder, peppering down soft feather like kisses on their way.


    A soft moan escaped from her lips when his lips latched onto her soft spot at the base of her neck, sucking and biting it.


    His lips trailed down to her clavicles and lower, kissing and sucking in the way.


    ''KNOCK!''


    ''KNOCK!''


    ''KNOCK!''


    "The guests are here Young Master." The voice of old butler accompanied the knocks, breaking the couple out of their stupor.


    Adam groaned in frustration. "Alright! I will be down their in a minute or two." He spoke up, rolling his eyes back. ''Why can''t he just have her little elf even for once?''


    He reluctantly moved away from Stella, getting off the bed.


    "You can freshen up sweetheart, I will chose something for you to wear." He spoke up as he saw her getting up. His eyes trailed off to the the open shirt making his throat dry again.


    "Or we could just stay here for a while. I don''t think so that they will mind if we run a bit late." Adam continued, only to earn a glare from Stella.


    "No! You go downstairs and keep them entertained. I will be there in fifteen minutes." Stella spoke up as she tried to get off the bed, her mind was still a bit unclear.


    "Come here." Before her feet could touch the ground, Adam picked her up princess style and carried her to the bathroom.


    "See you downstairs." Adam said, placing her down on her feet, next to the vanity.


    He pecked her cheek before leaving her by herself.


    After placing down some clothes for her on the bed, he changed into another set of casual wear, a navy blue v-neck full-sleeved t-shirt with a black jeans, and then made his way to the living room.


    "I am sorry for keep you guys waiting." He spoke up as he entered the living room.


    "It''s okay. We just arrived a few minutes earlier." Blake was the one to spoke up first, Lillian and Liam just nodded. "I hope you don''t mind that I brought her with me." He continued pointing towards Lillian who was sitting next to him with no evident expressions on her face.


    "It''s actually good that you brought her with you." Adam replied, shaking his hand with him. He greeted Lillian with a nod, who did the same.


    Adam made his way to Liam who was sitting on the other couch and hugged him.


    "Where''s my god-daughter?" Liam asked him after returning his hug.


    "Can you please show some concern for me as well? I am your god-son as well." Adam pouted as he sat next to him.


    "I have shown my concerns for you for the last twenty four years. It''s her turn now." Liam replied without paying any attention to the sulking child next to him.


    "Who''s turn?" Stella entered the room wearing a loose fitting maroon sweatshirt and black shorts.


    "Aaah! I missed you so much." Liam stood up from the couch and made his way towards Stella. He engulfed her in a bear hug.


    "I missed you too Uncle." Stella replied returning his hug.


    She made her way towards Blake and Lillian after Liam let her go.


    Blake gave her a side hug. "Are you doing okay?" He asked her with concern written on his face.


    Stella nodded giving him a soft smile. She didn''t have the heart to berate him about what he did last night. He did treat her like his little sister.


    "Thank you so much." Stella spoke up as she hugged Lillian. She can''t thank her enough.


    Lillian patted her back and rolled her eyes. "Stop thanking me. In fact, I should be the one thanking you." She added, breaking their hug.


    Stella didn''t understand the hidden meaning behind her words but she soon would.


    Stella sat next to Adam as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Liam sat on her other side. There was no way he would let Adam take all of her time.

 Chapter 104 - Youngsters

    After chatting for a while, all of them headed towards the dining room where the old butler was asking the maids and servants to hurry up. They were done placing all the dishes on the table except for the dessert just as they entered the dining room with Adam, who had an arm around Stella''s waist, leading the way.


    The old butler bowed his head to greet the guests with the rest of the maids and servants following the suit. He then flicked his fingers, asking the maids and servants to leave.


    After everyone was settled down on the table. Adam and Stella sat on one side with Liam sitting next to Stella while Blake and Lilian sat across them.


    "Adam?" Stella called his name softly so that only he could hear her.


    Adam hummed in response, turning his head towards her.


    "I have never seen you sitting there. Why?" She asked in a low voice, pointing towards the head of the table. She had been staying with him for so long now but never saw him sitting on that chair, not even once. He would always sit in the same chair he was now.


    Adam leaned his towards her, bringing his lips close to her ear. "That place belonged to Dad. It always will." He spoke up in a low voice.


    Stella was taken aback by his reply. Her eyes teared up a bit as she squeezed his hand which was still holding hers, trying to give him some comfort. She could understand his pain. Or maybe she couldn''t, at least she got the chance to spend some of her life with both of her parents. He didn''t even get to see his mom.


    "Hey, it''s alright." Adam spoke up, his thumb grazing over her left cheek, wiping off a single tear that was trickling down.


    "Can both of you please keep your hands off each other for a while. We are trying to eat here." Blake interrupted them. He didn''t know what the duo was talking about, and he couldn''t care. He was just annoyed by their publicly display of affection.


    "Don''t get your panties in a twist." Adam replied with a smirk as he placed a soft feather like kiss on Stella''s lips. "Why don''t you get yourself a girlfriend?" He challengingly looked at Blake.


    Blake only pouted in return, making Lillian chuckle at his actions.


    "Looks like you are having fun at my expense." He murmured next to her ear, his voice low enough for her to hear. "Looks like you are forgetting last night babes. Enjoy while you can. I will have my fun later on." He seductively murmured. His left hand rested at the back of her chair while the right one trailed over her thigh under the table, slowly inching closer to the junction of her thighs. Lillian''s body became stiff in response as she threw daggers at Blake with her eyes.


    Liam looked next to him and then across the table. He shook his head sideways. "Youngsters." He muttered under his breath before digging in, forgetting that he was exactly like this or probably worse when was around their age.


    ---------------


    They were now sitting in the living room having their coffees.


    Adam had a serious expression over his face. He knew this was about to come sooner or later. But he was dreading how Stella might react after knowing this. He couldn''t bare to see her sad.


    Getting a nod from Liam, he decided to finally speak up.


    "Sweetheart?" He called her with tenderness in his voice. He took her coffee mug and placed it down on the table, taking both of her hands in his.


    Stella could see worry etched over his face. "What is it?"


    Heaving a long, tired sigh, Adam opened his mouth. "Liam and Blake didn''t just come for dinner today. They needed to discuss something with you." He took a pause before continuing again. "It''s about your parents."


    "What about them?" She asked him in a meek voice then turned to face Liam and Blake who was sitting on the other couch. Lillian was sitting on the single sofa chair quietly.


    "We don''t think that their accident was just an accident." It was Liam who spoke up this time.


    Adam could feel her shivering, and brought her closer to him, hugging her by his side.


    "Hey! It''s alright. Just listen to them." Adam spoke up, rubbing his hand over her shoulder.


    "After you were born, we used visit Ethan and Rosaline daily, and to see our little angel. But we didn''t find them there one day. The hospital staff told us that your Mom was discharged. Knowing your Dad''s nature, he couldn''t have let Rosaline leave the hospital this soon, especially after she had a C-section. So, me and Paul were pretty shocked and went to their place."

 Chapter 105 - This Is Home. This Is Family.

    Liam took a brief pause before continuing. "But there was no one at their place, not even their servants and maids."


    Stella was already shivering by now, her eyes brimmed red with unshed tears. Adam picked her up, settling her down on his lap.


    Stella wrapped her arms around Adam''s back tightly, her face resting in the crook of his neck.


    Liam looked at the girl and couldn''t help but heaved out a tired sigh.


    "We did try contacting them but couldn''t. Their phones were switched off. We utilized all of our manforce, but still it was all in vain. It wasn''t until a few years back when I was finally able to locate them. But I was too late. I tried looking for their daughter as the report only stated about them dying in the accident. But I had no luck. It wasn''t until you walked into the mansion with Adam." He sipped his coffee as his lips curled up in a faint smile.


    "You exactly look like Rosaline, except for your eyes. You have Ethan''s eyes." He continued.


    "I know that." Stella replied, looking at him as her lips curled up in a sad smile.


    "Moving on! They left all of their businesses and the mansion to Ethan''s second cousin. He was asked to look after it until you are able to take it over." Blake added.


    "But I don''t remember my uncle being this rich." Stella interrupted him with a confused look on her face. "They were well off but not that much."


    "Ohh! That piece of bullshit wasn''t actually your paternal uncle. He wasn''t even related to you by blood. Your real paternal uncle, the one who was supposed to look after you, just hired him to act like one. The fake uncle''s entire family knew of this arrangement." Blake replied.


    Stella''s eyes widened in shock. ''No wonder they treated me like that.''


    "And your parents probably left a fortune for you as well, but I guess they used it for themselves." It was Liam who who spoke up this time.


    "So you are trying to say that my paternal uncle, my Dad''s second cousin, is actually an asshole." Stella summed all of it up.


    "And your Dad was a bigger one for trusting him. He could have asked us and we would have helped him. But that rascal didn''t want to trouble us." Liam replied.


    "Stella? We think that someone was after them. That is why they left everything here and left the city." Blake added looking at Adam who nodded at him.


    "And we also think that the same person is after you now." He continued after having Adam''s permission.


    "W-WHAT?" Stella couldn''t comprehend what he was trying to say.


    "Do you remember what happened at your apartment?" Blake asked her to which she bobbed her head up and down.


    "It wasn''t a normal break in. Why do you think the person didn''t take anything from your place?" He continued.


    "That is why I was so persistent about making you stay here with me." Adam, who was sitting quietly all this while, finally spoke up. "I needed you to be within my sight for my heart to be at ease. You stole it the first time you entered my office." He continued, pressing a lingering kiss on her forehead.


    His words and actions made Stella feel guilty and she hugged him tighter.


    As if sensing the change in her emotions, Adam chuckled, kissing the top of her head one more time.


    "We don''t know who exactly our enemy is, but we will start with that crappy uncle of yours. How dare he to sell your family heirloom?" Blake was seething in anger.


    "We will always protect you Stella. No matter what it takes us to make sure that you are fine." Adam spoke up as he held her in place, close to his heart.


    "And everything which was supposed to be rightfully yours, will be yours once again." He continued.


    Liam and Blake nodded in agreement.


    Stella felt a warmth spreading through her chest. ''This is home. This is family.'' She thought to herself.


    "And I will help in training you." Lillian finally decided to open her mouth, making the other three men lose their calm.


    "No way."


    "No!"


    "Not gonna happen on my watch."


    All the three men spoke up at the same time, making Stella laugh and Lillian roll her eyes.


    "She needs to know how to protect herself." Lillian wasn''t going to give in so easily. If she had made up her mind about something, then there''s no way she is backing out. She will have it, one way or another.


    "You guys know that she is right." Stella interrupted before they could even start arguing over it.


    "The girl said it herself. So, it''s decided that I''ll  come over weekends to train you. The rest of the week you can just exercise with Adam daily in the morning." Lillian added with a pleased expression on her face.


    And just like that, it was decided that Stella will be trained by the best subordinate that Blake had.

 Chapter 106 - Cute As A Baby

    The trio left soon after the discussion, leaving the two lovebirds alone. They knew that Stella needed some time to let all the information sink in.


    Before leaving, Liam took out a picture from his wallet and passed it to Adam. "I was going through some of our old stuff and found this. Thought you guys may want to have this."


    Adam looked at the picture in his hand and his eyes widened in surprise. It was an old polaroid. A boy of around four years of age was holding a newborn baby in his arms. The baby was wearing a baby cotton frock. Her eyes were shut close as she held onto the boy''s finger tightly, squeezing it. Adam could recognize that the boy was no one other than himself.


    "Is that Stella?" He finally managed to speak up, looking at Liam with a faint smile on his face.


    Liam nodded and left the couple on their own after biding his goodbyes.


    After he had left, Stella finally managed to look at the picture properly.


    "Is that you?" She asked as she snatched the picture from Adam.


    "You were cute as a baby." Adam didn''t bother answering her question.


    "Am I not cute now?" Stella asked him, her lips pursing into a pout.


    Adam shrugged and swept her off her feet. He carried her all the way to his room and placed her down on the bed. After taking the picture from her, he put it securely inside his drawer with the the other picture that Liam gave them before.


    He made a mental note to ask Bella to contact a photographer. He wanted both of these pictures framed.


    He climbed into the bed, lying next to her. Bringing her closer to himself.


    "Can''t say about you being cute or not, but I do find out hot." He spoke up, licking his lower lip as his hand made its way under her loose shirt, grazing over her fair skin. He felt Stella''s breath getting hitched under his touched.


    He traced his fingers around the lower edge of her bra, sending shivers of pleasure down her spine.


    "Do you know how hard it is for me to control myself around you these days?" He murmured softly next to her ear, his voice brimming with seduction. "One of these days, I will have you." He placed the a feather like kiss behind her ear.


    "I will bring you your sleepwear." He said before leaving her alone on the bed, all flustered, as headed towards the walk-in closet.


    He returned after a while and passed her one of his shirts and a pair of black silk shorts. Though she had her own sleepwear, a lot of them, she had turned his shirts and t-shirts into her sleepwear, not that he minded it. For him, they looked much better on her.


    "I will join you in a while. Need to take a cold shower." He said, emphasizing on ''cold'', and made his way to the bathroom. His last few days have been spending with him taking cold showers. He was afraid that one of the coming days, he wouldn''t be able to control his desires. Only he knew how much he desired her, how badly he wanted to do it with her. But he wanted to make it special for them. It will be their first time, and he wanted it to be memorable for her.


    --------------------


    "Wake up, sleepy head." Adam spoke softly as he tried to wake her up.


    "Umm¡­. What time is it?" Stella asked in her groggy morning voice.


    "Six in the morning." Adam replied to her patiently.


    "It''s too early. We don''t have to go to the office for another two hours. Let me sleep." She muttered, turning around to bury her face into Adam''s pillow, blocking the sunlight.


    Adam''s lips curled up in a smile as he watched her act like a spoilt teenager.


    "Are you forgetting that we are supposed to be exercising. Lillian even sent some sportswear for you. Get up and change." He added, as he held her hands, pulling her up in the process.


    He was wearing a black t-shirt paired with a matching pair of sweatpants and white workout shoes.


    "Alright! I will see you in the gym." Stella didn''t have a choice but to reluctantly agree. She was the one who brought this on herself, so she had no other choice but to bear it.


    ----------------


    Adam was just warming up when Stella entered the gym. Looking at the girl, he almost lost his footing.


    She was wearing a black sports bra and a pair of matching sport shorts which were hugging her pretty ass perfectly.


    Adam gulped down a mouthful of saliva at the sight before him.

 Chapter 107 - Workout Time

    "What are you wearing?" Adam asked her with parched throat.


    "My sportswear. This is what Lillian sent me. A bunch of these in different colors." Stella replied pointing to her clothes.


    Adam heaved out a long frustrated sigh. He was starting to pity himself. ''It''s not going to be easy.''


    "Come here. We will start with some warm ups so that your muscles won''t hurt that much later on." He added.


    Adam taught her some light exercises since it was her first day. He would raise the difficulty slowly, day by day. He just couldn''t see her overexerting herself.


    Adam had removed his shirt and was only wearing his sweatpants now. He had a habit of doing this while he exercised. He was having a hard time controlling himself as his mind kept drifting to Stella. For him, her body was no less than a fine piece of art. Her delicate, snow white skin glowed under the dim. He tried to divert his attention by looking somewhere else. But it didn''t help him out.


    Two walls of the gym were fixed with mirrors. As soon as he shifted his eyes, they fell on the reflection of Stella''s butt as she was trying to squat.


    His gaze darkened as he saw her repeat it a few times more. ''Another day, another cold shower.'' He sighed inwardly.


    "That''s enough for today. You can go and freshen up. I will join you for breakfast. I need to exercise as well." Adam spoke up, stopping her in her tracks.


    Adam made his way to the benching press. He thought that Stella would leave, but he was so wrong.


    "I will just use the treadmill then, for a bit." She spoke up, making her way towards it.


    Adam muttered a curse under his breath. "You will be the death of me sweetheart." He murmured softly.


    Stella put on her headphones and started the treadmill. She ran on it as some rock song was booming through her ears, oblivious to a pair darkened gray eyes, which kept looking in her direction.


    ---------------------


    "Here''s the file for today''s meeting." Stella came inside the office with a blue file in her hand.


    "Are you sure that you want to collaborate with them on this project?" She continued, as she made her way around his office desk. Her voice was laced with worry which warmed Adam''s heart.


    Adam pulled her on his lap and made her settle on it comfortably.


    "I couldn''t find any flaws in the contract. Moreover, this project will be the biggest hit of the year. It will take our company to a new height of success. I can''t turn them down." Adam replied as he cupped her face.


    "Everything will be fine baby girl. You don''t have to worry about it." Adam pressed a lingering kiss on her forehead. It was his way of reassuring her.


    Stella nodded her head in response. "Hopefully everything will go well." She added, still lost in her own thoughts. She didn''t know why, but she kept having a bad feeling about the project. Or maybe it wasn''t the project but that person.


    -------------------


    Stella was waiting for the elevator to arrive. She had came down to the lobby to pick up a parcel which came for Adam. She was tapping her heel against the ash gray marbled floor, making light clicking sounds, her eyes set on the changing numbers in red which were showing next to the metallic gray doors.


    "We meet again Ms Stella." A deep magnetic voice broke her out of her stupor.


    She turned around only to find a tall man with a good built, clad in a dark navy blue suit. His hands were tucked in the front pockets of his pants.


    Because of the light coming from behind him, there was a shadow cast over his face, making it difficult for Stella to see his face.


    Just as she was about to ask him about his identity, the man stepped closer to her.


    Stella could feel her body stiffen up at the sight of who it was.


    It was the one and only Taylor Williamson. He was looking like his usual handsome self.


    "Good morning." He greeted her, his lips curled up in his usual charming smile.


    "G-Good morning." Stella replied meekly. She was looking everywhere but at him. The tapping of her foot had increased it''s pace, her eyes locked on the changing numbers. ''Why is this elevator taking so much time?''


    "Shouldn''t you be in the meeting room?" He asked her with an amused expression in his face. He could tell that she was being nervous.


    "I am just going there. I had to pick this up." She replied hastily, showing him the brown paper envelope that was in her hand.


    The elevator door opened with a ping. Stella entered in and pressed 25.


    "Thank God." She muttered under her breath but soon it converted to cursed as she saw him stepping inside as well.


    "I am sorry, Mr Taylor, but this elevator is for employs only. You should take the one which is for our guests." She spoke up.


    "It doesn''t matter which elevator I take as long as it takes me to my destination. Since we are going to the same floor, so why not share one." He replied lazily as the elevator doors closed.

 Chapter 108 - Trapped

    Stella tapped her foot again and again on the black marbled floor, producing faint clicking sounds. She was standing close to the elevator door so that she could rush out as soon as they opened. Her eyes were fixed on the changing numbers as the elevator ascended to their destination.


    Taylor was leaning against the back of the elevator as he looked her fidgeting self, his lips curling up into a devilish smirk.


    ''What is wrong with this elevator today?'' She cursed inwardly. She couldn''t comprehend why, but sharing the same space as him was freaking her out. She could feel his eyes on herself, sending chills down her spine.


    She almost heaved a sigh of relief when she saw that they were on the 21st floor.


    ''Just four more floors Stella.'' She thought inwardly, trying to calm her nerves down. But fate definitely had other plans for her.


    On the 22nd floor, the elevator stopped with a jerk. The lights switched off after fluctuating for a few seconds, making the small space eerily dark.


    Around 15 seconds, later the emergency lights switched on.


    Stella kept on pressing the emergency button, again and again, but it wasn''t working.


    She was beginning to freak out. It wasn''t that she was claustrophobic, but her fear was rather related to a bad childhood memory.


    ---------------------


    *FLASHBACK*


    Stella was eight years old when it happened. She went to a friend''s birthday party with her parents, which was held on the rooftop of a five star hotel.


    Everyone was having fun and so was Stella. The parents were busy talking to each other while the children ran here and there.


    Stella was with Karen, the birthday girl, and two other girls who were friends with Karen. They were chatting happily when one of the other two girls suggested that they should go and have a look at the huge swimming pool which was two floors below from where the party was being held.


    Karen and the other girl agreed happily with her, so Stella had no choice but to tag along. What she didn''t know was that those two girls had something else in their minds.


    There were two elevators which opened on the rooftop, one of which was out of order. There was a sign board placed before it, but someone took it and hid it behind the potted plants.


    When they arrived before the elevator, the two girls asked Stella to get in first to which she complied. Before Karen could step in, they stopped her and started talking about random things.


    Stella was busy looking at her reflection in the mirror, running her fingers through her hairs as she tried to fix them. She didn''t notice the elevator doors closing and only turned around when she heard the ping sound.


    She was about to say something but her words got stuck in her throat when she didn''t see anyone else.


    She tried to open the door but it didn''t work. She was trapped in there, all alone.


    The elevator started to move down with jerks and soon stopped in the middle of the 15th and 14th floors.


    Stella was stuck in there for more than an hour and that too in complete darkness before she was rescued. She just sat in the corner and cried, calling for her Mom and Dad. And to add to the shock of an eight year old girl, the elevator started to shake when they were pulling her out.


    Just as they guards pulled her out, it started to descend down and crashed into the ground floor, making a loud crashing sound.


    Stella saw it all with her own eyes and still remembered it vividly.


    The two girls were scolded badly by their parents for pulling out such a girl. They just wanted to scare Stella a bit. They were jealous of her as she was always so perfect in everything, whether it was studies or co-curricular activities, she used to ace them.


    ----------------------


    *PRESENT*


    Stella was beginning to feel suffocated in the closed space. She tried to take deep breaths but it didn''t help her out.


    Taylor, who was still standing in the same position, sensed that something was wrong with her.


    "Hey! You okay?" He asked her, taking a few steps towards her.


    It was then that he noticed her pale face. She was trying to take deep breaths. But it didn''t look like that it was helping her. She was continuously pressing the emergency button, even though it wasn''t working.


    "Relax!" He continued, placing a hand on her back. "They will come and fetch us." He tried to reassure her as he slowly patted her back.


    He took his phone out to call his secretary, but there were no signals. He gritted his teeth in annoyance.


    "Just breathe slowly. There''s no need to get worried. I am sure they know about the situation by now. They will come to get us. It''s just a matter of a few minutes." He spoke up, keeping his voice soft and mellow. Seeing her like this was breaking his heart.

 Chapter 109 - Scared For Her Life

    "Sir!" Bella came rushing in Adam''s office, not bothering to knock.


    Adam was already on his way out when he saw her. She looked like as if she had run a marathon before coming here.


    "What is it?" Adam asked her, not paying her much of his attention.


    "T-the public ele-vator has st-topped working." She replied in between her breaths.


    "And why exactly are you telling me that?" Adam asked her with an amused expression. "I am sorry, but I am not sure whether I can fix it or not."


    "No! Mr. Tay-Taylor is stuck inside it." She replied, still taking deep breaths.


    "What is he doing in the public elevator?" He added, walking towards the door.


    "I don''t know. B-but¡­." Bella replied as she followed him out, but her words trailed off in the end. She didn''t know how to break the news to him.


    "But he''s not alone in there. Stella is trapped with him as well." She finally gathered the courage and spoke it in haste.


    "What?" Adam stopped in his tracks. After a while he turned around to look at Bella. "She is in there? With him?" He looked at Bella with a shocked expression, his eyebrows raised up and his eyes popping out of their sockets.


    Bella meekly nodded her head in a yes.


    "And you didn''t think to start with that." Adam almost yelled at her as he headed towards his private elevator with Bella in tow.


    "Which floor?" He asked her as she followed him inside the elevator.


    "22nd." Bella replied to him in a meek voice.


    Adam hurriedly pressed the button to the 22nd floor.


    From the 44th floor until the 22nd, Adam had his eyes fixed on the changing numbers. His eyebrows were furrowed, his jaws, clenched tightly and his custom made Italian leather boots were tapping against the floor. Even Bella could feel how tensed up he was.


    As soon as the elevator reached its destination, Adam stepped out hurriedly, not waiting for the doors to be opened completely. Bella followed him out as well.


    The public elevator was situated at a distance of ten feet or so from his own. He strode towards it hastily.


    There were already a bunch of people standing close to it as three technicians were trying to get the doors opened.


    "Move." Adam''s strong voice resonated through the hallway, quieting the murmurs and whispers of people.


    His staff members moved aside, getting out of his path.


    "How long is it going to take?" He asked the technicians in a cold voice.


    "We can''t say exactly how long, but we are trying our best Sir." The head of the team replied to him politely.


    "Well, then hurry up." His demanding voice made him shut his mouth.


    With each passing second, the air grew chiller. The air surrounding Adam was freezing cold Adam''s face was as black as the bottom of a pot. His eyes did not shift from the elevator, even for a single second.


    By now, the entire floor was gathered in the hallway, whispering among themselves, speculating why the Boss was standing here himself.


    Almost everyone of them thought that it must be because of Mr. Taylor and that he might be afraid of losing the contract.


    But they didn''t know how wrong they were. Adam couldn''t give a single damn about that contract. He was here for his babygirl, his little elf.


    Adam was growing impatient. He was about to shout on the technicians again, when the door finally opened.


    He felt his soul leaving the body when his eyes met with her hazel ones.


    Her face was pale, she was drenched in sweat and her breathing was irregular.


    She was scared, she was scared for her life. He could see that in her eyes, and that was enough to shatter his heart. His little beasty was so fragile sometimes.


    Stella''s eyes met Adam as soon as the door opened but it took her a while to register that he was really there and she was not imagining things. She looked at him as if he was her life jacket, the only thing keeping her afloat in the vast ocean that trying to suck her into the abyss.


    Not paying any attention to her surroundings or to the man standing next to her, Stella made her way towards Adam hurriedly and hugged him. She hugged him as if her life depended on it.


    Adam was shocked for a while but he came out of his stupor as her sobbing made its way to his ears. He hugged her back with the same passion.


    Stella had her arms wrapped around his broad muscular back as her face was buried in his chest.


    All the staff members present there, were shocked to their cores when they saw what was happening. The first thing they expected their boss to do was apologize to Mr Taylor for the incident. But never in their minds it occurred for even once that a girl would come out of the elevator and hug their Boss. And not only that, their bug, scary, cold hearted Boss was hugging the petite girl back.


    But what came next, shocked them more. They never thought that they would love long enough to see or hear what followed the hugging.


    "Shhh!!! I am here sweetheart. You are okay, and in my arms." Adam spoke up in a soft voice as if he was cooing a crying child.

 Chapter 110 - Let Me Show You

    "Shhh!!! I am here sweetheart. You are okay, and in my arms." Adam spoke up in a soft voice as if he was cooing a crying child.


    "Stop with the crying baby girl. You know it breaks my heart to see you like this." He whispered softly above her head, his left hand was rubbing her back slowly as he tried to calm her down.


    He felt Stella nodding against his chest, but she didn''t stop crying.


    "I am sorry for what happened Mr Taylor." Adam spoke up as he finally registered the presence of another person standing before him.


    "It''s not your fault." Taylor replied lazily with a shrug.


    "But it did happen in my company. So, I apologise to you for the inconvenience. And I am sorry to say but I won''t be able to make it to the meeting, I have something urgent on my hands which needs my utmost attention." Adam continued, giving him an apologetic smile.


    "It''s alright. You take care of whatever it is." Taylor replied and made his way to the other elevator.


    Adam asked Bella to go with him and ask the V.P to deal with the meeting himself.


    After they left, Adam looked at the girl, who was crying in his arms, with a broken expression. He slowly bent down and picked her up in his arms.


    Stella''s arms automatically wrapped around his neck and she buried her face in the crook of his neck, still crying like a child.


    With his girl secured in his arms, Adam made his way to his elevator.


    Looking at the retreating figure of their Boss which soon disappeared from the sight as the elevator doors closed, everyone had their jaws touching down the floor. Every staff member of the 22nd floor would be remembering this moment until the end of their lives.


    -----------------------


    Adam put down Stella on the soft mattress of his bed but she refused to let go of him. This little action of hers, melted his heart. But at the same time it caused him pain. He just couldn''t see her in such a state.


    "I am not going anywhere Stella. I will be here, right next to you." He murmured softly next to her face as he tried to calm her nerves down.


    Slowly and reluctantly, Stella let go of his neck and let him put her down on the bed.


    After putting her down, Adam moved to the foot end of the bed and removed her black heels, placing them down next to the bed.


    He removed his coat, undid his cuffs and rolled them up to his elbows. After removing his shoes and undoing the top two buttons of his shirt, he joined her on the bed.


    After pulling her close to him, he made sure that she was lying in a comfortable position before covering her and himself with the duvet.


    He kept murmuring sweet nothings next to her ear as he rubbed her back softly and slowly. And soon he heard her even breathing.


    He looked down at her face only to find her eyelids peacefully shut.


    He heaved out a long sigh which he didn''t know that he was holding in.


    Even though she had fallen asleep, but Adam didn''t stop rubbing her back.


    As time went by, Adam''s eyelids grew heavy and he drifted off to his dreamland.


    ------------------


    "Boss." Lillian entered Blake''s room without knocking. But the sight before her, made her face flushed.


    Blake had just came out after taking a shower. The only thing he had on, was a black towel which was wrapped around his waist.


    She could see the water droplets which were glistening over his toned muscles. She could feel her throat running dry at the sight presented before him. A bunch of scenes from a few nights ago flashed through her mind, making her blush deeper.


    "Like what you see?" Blake''s husky voice broke her out of her daydreaming.


    "These are the files you asked me to bring." She replied to him, keeping her emotions in check.


    She wasn''t someone who displayed them for others but she knew she couldn''t hide them from Blake. He could always read her like an open book. Maybe it''s those five years that they had spent together.


    "Come here." He asked her as he sat down on the edge of the bed.


    Lillian complied to him, making her way towards him and stopping right before him.


    With one swift movement, Lillian was lying down on the bed with him hovering over her.


    "These files could wait. But I don''t think so that I can." Blake added in a hoarse voice, biting her earlobe in the process which earned him a moan from her.


    "Do you remember how you misbehaved that night?" He asked her. "I was angry with you and you tried to seduce me." He continued as his fingers grazed over her fishnet stockings.


    "You know it wasn''t me but the drug." Lilian replied with confidence.


    "Exactly my point! And you dared to try avoiding me after that." Blake''s fingers moved under her skirt, closing in to her inner thigh.


    "Let me show you how it is actually done." Blake added before sealing her lips with his own.

 Chapter 111 - Everyone Knows Now

    Stella tried opening her heavy eyelids, which took her a while to do. As soon as she opened them, they landed on a handsome face, a couple of inches away from her own.


    His fair, smooth skin seemed to glow under the warm lighting of the room. His chiseled face could put the famous models and actors to shame.


    "How did I become so lucky?" She muttered under her breath as her fingers inched towards his face, finally landing on his firm, thin lips.


    "You must have saved an entire planet in your last life." A strong, husky voice reached her ears, bringing her back to the present.


    Stella tried to retract her fingers, but it was too late for that. A strong grip held them in their place, hovering over his lips


    Adam opened his eyes lazily, his lips curling up in a smirk. He kissed her finger tips slowly, one at a time.


    Stella could feel her cheeks becoming warm at his sweet actions.


    When Adam was done kissing her fingers, he spoke up. "And I, milady, must have saved an entire universe in my last life to have you in this one." His gray eyes gazed into her hazel ones, filled with love and tenderness.


    Blood rushed to her face, tinting it a deep shade of pink.


    "Stop it." She spoke up in a small voice.


    "Why should I?" Adam gave her a soft smile which soon turned into a devilish one. "I know you love it when I say sweet nothings to you. And I know something else which you love more than this." He continued as his fingers grazed over her neck.


    "Adam! We are in your office." Stella admonished him, grabbing his hand firmly and stopping it from heading down.


    "Ohhh! You remember that we are in my office. It didn''t seem like it when you hugged me in front of my staff." Adam added, raising an eyebrow at her, his lips curled up in a teasing smile.


    Stella had a black expression on her face which soon turned into a shocked one as snippets of what had happened earlier in the day flashed through her mind.


    As the elevator''s doors, her eyes met with Adam''s. She felt so relieved at that moment. He somehow always managed to be there for her whenever she needed him. Because of her emotions at that time, she had hugged him in the spur of the moment without even realizing that there were other people present there.


    "Everyone knows now." She spoke up with her quivering lips.


    "By now, yes." Adam replied to her. He was enjoying her antsy self.


    "What have I done?" Stella buried her face in her hands.


    "It''s nothing. They were bound to know one day." Adam replied, trying to pry her hands away from her face.


    "Ughhh! But it''s too soon." Stella replied in a meek voice.


    "Are you trying to say that you still aren''t sure about us?" Adam narrowed his eyes at her.


    "No, no, no. No!" Stella hurriedly added looking at his sour expression. "I didn''t mean it like that. It''s just that I am your assistance, and you are my boss."


    "So what? So what if I am your boss?" Adam spoke up coldly, turning his face away from her.


    "Adam! Don''t act like a kid. You know what I mean." Stella grabbed his chin and turned his face so that she was looking into his eyes.


    "Adam?" She called him again when he didn''t reply to her.


    Heaving a frustrated sigh, Stella locked her lips over his.


    She slowly and sensually moved her lips over his. She was nervous at first but a low groan that escaped his throat, was enough to give her a boost as her actions turned bolder.


    She sucked on his lips for a little while and then bit the lower one suddenly.


    Adam groaned in response as he let her prying tongue enter his mouth.


    Her inexperienced tongue explored every nook and cranny of his mouth, driving him insane. Adam couldn''t control it anymore and shifted their position, pinning her down on the mattress.


    He kissed her back, their tongues moving against each other in perfect sync.


    As the two love birds were busy in ravishing each other, the news of a certain cold-hearted demon being in relationship with his assistant, was spreading like a wild fire across the Levinson''s Corp.


    ------------------


    "Your father is waiting for you in the living room Young Master." The caretaker informed Taylor after greeting him as he entered the mansion.


    Taylor only nodded and headed towards the direction of the living room.


    "What are you doing here?" Taylor asked as soon as he entered.


    "This is how you greet your father." His father scoffed. Both father and son had an uncanny resemblance with their tall and muscular build and black obsidian eyes. Even though he was in his late forties, he had maintained himself pretty well and women would still throw themselves at his feet.

 Chapter 112 - Stella Got Played

    "Why did you come?" Taylor asked him once again, without replying to his question.


    "I hope you had a good time with her in that elevator." His father scoffed as he leaned his back against the couch.


    "How do you know about the incident?" Taylor asked him, his eyebrows furrowing as he pondered over it. He just came back from the company after signing the contract. How did his father already know about it?


    "It was you, wasn''t it?" Taylor spoke up after a while. "You were the one who made it happen." He was seething in anger.


    "Answer me, father." His jaws were clenched tightly as he looked at his father with his anger-filled eyes.


    "You weren''t supposed to be there with her." His father replied as he lit up a cigar.


    "You wanted to trap her in there?" Taylor couldn''t take it anymore and slammed his palm against the oakwood table.


    "It was just for a few minutes. What are you getting so worked up for?" His father replied to him with a laid back attitude.


    "How many times do I have to tell you to keep your hands off her? Even if she gets a single scratch because of you, I will ruin you myself." Taylor added, gritting his teeth.


    "But she doesn''t even look at you."


    "That does not concern you at all. You killed your woman, but don''t try pulling the same stunt with mine." Taylor added with a scoff as he made his way towards the door.


    "You know the way out." He said and left his father alone with his own thoughts. He knew what he had said, hurt him in the right place. ''Serves him right.''


    After Taylor had left, his lips curled up in a sad smile.


    "You know I didn''t want it to happen." He muttered under his breath.


    ----------------------


    Stella refused to go out of Adam''s office. She was dreading for what was about to come. Everyone in the company knew about their secret rendezvous by now, including the security guards and janitors.


    "Don''t tell me that you won''t be going out unless everyone has left." Adam spoke up, tilting his head down to look at the girl in his arms.


    They were still in bed. The only thing which changed, was their position


    Adam was now sitting up, leaning his back against the headboard, with Stella snuggled up against him, her face was buried in his chest and her arms wrapped tightly around his waist.


    No matter how much Adam tried to coo her, she refused to budge, not that Adam minded it. He could lay down with her all day long without getting tired of it. He just couldn''t get enough of her.


    But what was actually troubling him, was the fact that she refused to step out of his office, not unless everybody has left for their homes.


    "Even if you succeed in trying to avoid them, they will see you tomorrow anyway." Adam added politely.


    "So you have to choices. One, you leave with me like we usually do. Two, I will throw you over my shoulders and take you out myself." He continued.


    He won''t stay at the office any longer than required. Spending days and nights at the office, was his life before he met her, and there was no way he was going back to that.


    Realizing the threat under his warm and soothing tone, Stella reluctantly nodded her head.


    Adam stepped out of his office, with Stella following behind him closely.


    Adam tried to control the laughter that was trying to escape his mouth. The girl who used to walk next to him daily, was now walking three steps behind. Adam decided to let her do as she pleased, at least for now.


    From the time they exited his office together, until they entered Adam''s private elevator, every pair of eyes were fixed on the duo.


    When they exited the elevator on the ground floor, Stella saw people stopping in their tracks and turning their heads around, just to have a look at them. Since it was the end of office hours, the ground floor was packed with people, who were leaving for their homes.


    Stella was getting more conscious when she suddenly felt a weight on her shoulders. Turning her head to the side slightly, she discovered that it was Adam''s arm.


    No matter how much she tried to shrug it off, she couldn''t. Adam maintained his grip around her shoulders.


    Until the duo arrived at the parking lot, Adam didn''t let her go. Stella was fuming mad at hai actions. If it were possible, one could see steam blowing out of her ears.


    Once they were settled in the car, Adam spoke up before turning on the ignition. "We will be going out of country for almost a week. There''s a conference that I need to attend. Our flight is scheduled tomorrow."


    Stella was quiet for a minute as the gears in her mind were working.


    "You mean we won''t be coming back here for an entire week. So, if we would have stayed inside for an hour or so, we would have managed to leave the building without all those staring and whispering?" She clenched her jaws as she looked at Adam with her hostile eyes.


    Adam only shrugged in response and drove the car away from the parking lot and headed towards his home after turning on the ignition.


    He wanted to scream at the top of his lungs and let the whole world know that she was his and only his alone. If not the world for now, he could at least let his staff know. The chance was served to him on a big silver platter. There was no way he would have let it slipped through his fingers.


    He looked at his girl, who was pouting and sulking like a child before turning his attention back to the road, his lips curling up slowly in a satisfied smile.

 Chapter 113 - I Will Guide You

    Stella was checking her suitcase to make sure that she had packed all the required items and was not forgetting anything important.


    She was still a bit angry with Adam. She decided to let go of the matter after they had returned home last night. But her temper shot up once again when Adam refused to tell her about their destination.


    "Idiot." Stella muttered under her breath as the scene from last night flashed through her mind.


    "Why are you calling yourself an idiot?" A deep, magnetic voice brought her out of her thoughts. Stella jumped at the sudden interruption, her hands pressing against the left side of her chest.


    "How long have you been standing there?" She narrowed her eyes at him, who was leaning against the door.


    "Long enough to see your enraged expressions." Adam replied to her as his lips curled up in a smirk.


    "Why are you not telling me the location?" Stella pursed her lips in a pout.


    "You will know once we land there." Adam made his way to where she was standing.


    Sitting on the bed, he grabbed her hand, pulling her towards him. This resulted in Stella landing on his lap. Before she could move, his hands found their way around her waist and held her in place.


    "You will like it." He added as his lips traced kisses from the back of her ear, down to the junction of her neck and shoulder.


    A contented sigh escaped her lips when his lips landed on the sensitive spot of her neck.


    "Stop seducing me." Adam murmured against her skin in a husky voice.


    "I am not seducing you." Stella replied immediately as her face turned pink.


    "Oh really? Then what is this?" Adam grabbed her hand and placed it on his member down there.


    Stella was stunned for a while but soon realized the situation she was in. Her face turned bright red as her fingers trembled over his hardened member.


    She tried to withdraw her hand away, but Adam was holding it firmly over his hardened member.


    "Don''t move your hand sweetheart, you will only make it worse." He spoke in a deep voice. "Will you help me?" He continued.


    Hearing his question, Stella''s eyes popped out of their sockets. Before she could reply to him, she heard him say.


    "I am tired of taking cold showers after every time we make out. So, will you help me sweetheart?"


    Not hearing a reply from her, Adam continued. "There''s no pressure. I don''t mind taking another cold shower."


    "B-but I-I-I¡­" She trailed off.


    "But what Stella?"


    "I don''t know how to." She finally replied in a meek voice, making Adam chuckle heartily.


    She looked up at him with a confused expression, her eyebrows furrowed and her lips pursed.


    "You have no idea how happy it makes me knowing that you don''t know how to do it. Otherwise, I don''t know what I would have done to that guy." He replied as his lips curled up in a soft smile. "And I will guide you through it."


    "So, is it a yes or a no baby girl?"


    Stella gazed into his eyes, which were a bit darker than usual. After contemplating for a minute, she meekly nodded her head earning a grin from him.


    ----------------


    *WARNING* A little of mature content ahead! Read at your own risk!


    Adam moved and leaned against the headboard with his legs resting straight. He asked Stella to sit over them.


    Once she was settled, he guided her hands to his trousers. With one of his hand he took out his already hardened member, the other holding onto her hands.


    Stella was looking everywhere but at him.


    "Look at it baby." Adam spoke up husky voice, forcing her to steal a glance at his member.


    When she did, her eyes widened in shock looking at its size. ''How is it going to fit in there? Wait, what? Why am I thinking about it? Shut it up Stella.'' She scolded herself inwardly.


    Little did she realized that her eyes were fixed on his hardened rod while she was busy having a monologue with herself.


    Adam''s lips curled up in a smirk as he took all of the changes her expressions were going through.


    He slowly placed her right hand on his already hardened rod. He gasped as her mere touch sent sparks flying through his body.


    He curled her fingers around it. "Hold it like this." He asked her, to which she complied.


    He started moving her hand up and down his rod. Stella followed his every word and soon she got the ''hang'' of it.


    Adam let go of her hand and she continued it moving up and down the length of his hardened member.


    Adam hummed in pleasure as he closed his eyes shut. "That''s right baby. Just keep doing it like this but a little faster sweetheart."


    Stella increased the pace of her movements and heard him taking a sharp breath as he groaned in pleasure.


    Stella felt his member twitch in his hand and she fastened the movements of her hand.


    Adam groaned as he clenched his jaws tightly. He knew he was close to finding his release. He quickly grabbed a bunch of tissue papers from the box on the bedside table and released himself in them as he called out her name in ecstasy.

 Chapter 114 - Fifteen Hours Long

    After calming himself down, Adam pecked her lips.


    "You did good baby girl." He murmured against her lips and placed another swift kiss over them.


    He retracted from the kiss and looked at his little elf. Her face was tinted crimson as she looked down at her knotted fingers.


    "Wait here." He said before fixing his trousers and getting off the bed. He threw a bunch of tissue papers in the dust bin and then washed his hands.


    Making his way back to the bed, he found her sitting in the same position. She was sitting on her knees and still looking at her knotted fingers, with her head bowed down slightly.


    He chuckled at his shy little elf and picked her up in his arms. He carried her all the way to the bathroom and put her feet down, making her stand  under the showerhead.


    "Freshen up sweetheart. Meet me downstairs in the living in an hour. We will be leaving by then." He spoke softly and kissed her forehead.


    "Oh! And I will definitely remember to return the favor." Adam added with a wink before leaving her all flustered.


    -----------------


    Adam stepped into his private jet, followed by Stella.


    Their suitcases were being out on the plane by the airport staff. The pilot and co-pilot stepped out of the cockpit and greeted the couple.


    After a minute or two, two female flight attendants came on board and introduced themselves to the duo as they asked them to settle down in their seats and put on their seat belts.


    Their were a total of six seats in the cabin, which were in pairs of two, and no less than a comfy sofa chair. The seats were black, standing out in the beige interior of the cabin.


    Adam and Stella sat next to each other and put on their seat belts as the pilot announced that they would takeoff in a few minutes.


    Stella had all of her focus on the co-pilot''s voice as he was telling about their flight plan. But to her discontent, he didn''t mention anything about their destination except that it would take them fifteen hours to reach there.


    "Fifteen hours long flight?" Stella looked at Adam with a shocked expression on her pretty little face.


    "I don''t have a say in that." Adam shrugged. ''Of course I do, but you don''t have to know that sweetheart.''


    ----------------


    After the takeoff, Adam had unbuckled Stella''s seatbelt and asked her to follow him. He made his way towards the door that was located at the back of the cabin and opened it, revealing a small bedroom.


    "Woahhhh!" Stella exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement.


    The bedroom had the same interior as the cabin but it had a touch of dark brown as well.


    "It''s nice." Stella spoke while beaming at him.


    "Good. Because it''s time for me to return the favor." Adam added as he looked at her with his darkened gaze.


    "What?" Stella was confused by his statement. ''What favor is he talking about?'' She asked herself, wrecking her brain to find something useful in there and she finally did. ''This morning!''


    "N-No. I don''t want you to return any favor." Stella added, shaking her head sideways.


    "I promise you will love it." Adam made his way to her in long strides.


    Before Stella could move from her spot, Adam grabbed her by the waist and swept her off of her feet, making her yelp in surprise at the sudden attack.


    He placed her down on the bed carefully and follow suit.


    He was hovering over her, his knees resting on either side of her legs, trapping them.


    He brought his lips closer to hers and claimed them. Sucking on to the soft petals like his life depended on it.


    Stella couldn''t help but moan when his ruthless tongue entered her mouth. She was so lost in the kiss that she didn''t notice his fingers working their magic on the buttons of her baby blue cotton shirt, undoing them, one at a time.


    ----------------


    *WARNING* Mature content ahead! Read at your own risk!


    Soon her shirt was lying on the floor along with her denim shorts.


    Adam finally let go of her lips, which were swollen now as a result of his assault on them.


    He looked at her, his burning gaze was sending shivers down her spine. His lips traced down to her neck and then to her collar bone, leaving open-mouthed kisses in their trail.


    He looked at Stella as her fingers hovered over her bra, as if asking for her permission.


    Stella''s mind was too muffled by his advances, and for once she didn''t want him to stop. She slowly nodded her head in a yes, giving him the green light to continue.


    His lips broke into a devilish smirk as his fingers unhooked her bra, throwing it on the floor.


    Two beautiful mounds of flesh appeared before his eyes, a pink bud resting on the top of each.


    Adam felt his jeans growing tighter around his crotch as his eyes lingered at the delectable sight before him.


    He moved next to her and removed his own clothes in record time, only leaving his boxers on. He didn''t want to scare his poor girl.


    He moved back to his previous position and straddled her, his hardened member hovering over her pubic area, merely inches away.


    He looked into her eyes as he removed the last piece of clothing that was on her. He was trying to look for any hesitation in her eyes but couldn''t find any.


    Throwing her underwear away, he looked down at her completely naked body, which was lying under him.


    He felt his breathing stop at the heavenly sight before him.

 Chapter 115 - My New Favorite Flavor

    *WARNING! This chapter is in continuation with the last one and contains mature content. Read at your own risk*


    Adam felt his breathing stop at the heavenly sight before him. He gazed at the alluring figure under him with his darkened eyes and his pupils dilated.


    Feeling his burning gaze on herself, Stella tried to cover her chest with her hands. But before she could, his hands got hold of hers and pinned them down on the mattress on either side of her.


    "Don''t hide from me." Adam spoke up in a deep voice.


    Listening to his deep melodious voice, a faint blush tinted her cheeks, making her look adorable.


    Adam leaned his face in, bringing his lips close to her neck. "You can stop me whenever you want to."


    After speaking those words against her fair skin, he latched his lips on her sensitive spot and began sucking on the soft skin.


    After making sure he had left a mark on her neck, he moved his lips down to her clavicle and then to her cleavage, leaving kisses along the way.


    He looked at the rosy bud on her left breast and blew air on it through his lips, making it erect at the attention that was being showered on it.


    Stella gasped as she felt his tongue licking her left nipple while his hand found the other one and pinched it, earning a low moan from her.


    Adam was pleased with her reaction as he finally took the nipple into her mouth while his hand played with its twin. He sucked on the pink pearl as he fondled with the other breast, cupping and squeezing it in his palm. He loved the way it filled his palm, they were a perfect fit for each other.


    Stella arched her back upwards, giving into his touch, which was sending delightful sparks flying throughout her body.


    He shifted his attention to the right one, capturing the already erect bud with his lips as his hand cupped the other one. He made sure that both of them were given his attention equally.


    After having his time with her breasts, he moved his lips down to her navel, leaving kisses along the way. He sucked on to her smooth skin in between the kisses, earning moans from her in response.


    He sucked on to her navel as his hand traveled to her pubic area, his fingers grazing over her wet folds, sending shivers down her spine.


    His fingers separated the wet folds as his thumb began to caress her clit.


    Stella could feel her blood rushing to her lower abdomen as her womanhood ached. The feeling was so foreign to her, but she didn''t want Adam to stop.


    Adam slowly inserted his middle finger inside her making her gasp in surprise at the sudden intrusion.


    His thumb continued fondling with her clit as he moved his finger slowly inside her, giving her time to get used to the feeling.


    Once he saw her body relax, he started to move his finger inside and out, slowly and sensually. He saw Stella bit down in her lower lip, trying to muffle her moans. His other hand moved towards her face.


    "Let me hear you babe." Adam spoke in a deep voice as his thumb freed her lower lip.


    He started to increase the pace of his finger, moving it in and out. She was so tight around his finger, he couldn''t help but imagine how she would feel around his member down there. Just thinking about it was making his member throb.


    Stella was a moaning mess under his assault.


    Adam felt her insides tightening around his finger and deliberately slowed down his pace.


    Stella groaned in frustration. "N-No. F-fas-ter A-Adam." She spoke in between gasps.


    Adam''s gaze darkened at her words.


    "Your wish is my command sweetheart." He spoke in a husky voice as he increased the pace.


    He felt her insides tightening around his fingers and further increased the pace.


    He leaned his lips close to her ear. "Don''t hold it in baby, let it go. Let it go for me." He murmured against her ear and bit it.


    As if his words were her undoing, Stella felt delightful tremors running through her body as some warm liquid escape her womanhood.


    "Good girl." Adam kissed the side of her forehead as he looked at the flushed face of his little elf which was covered in beads of sweat, glowing under the pale lighting of the room.


    Stella slowly opened her eyes when she felt his face moving away from her face.


    Adam slowly and carefully, moved his finger out of her wet folds. Under her scrutinizing eyes which were still half closed, he brought the finger close to his lips and kissed it before licking it clean.


    Stella almost came out of her dazed state as she looked at him with her eyes popping out of their sockets. What he said next, made her soul almost jump out of her body.


    "I know my new favorite flavor. It''s you."

 Chapter 116 - Not Now, Not Ever

    "I know my new favorite flavor. It''s you."


    Adam''s words resonated through her entire being, her face turning a deeper shade of red. It was beginning to look like a ripened tomato, ready to be harvested and eaten.


    Adam had his eyes fixed at her blushing face, waiting for her to say something at his remark, but she didn''t. Her eyes were wandering around, looking everywhere but at him.


    Adam heaved a sigh as he pressed a kiss on the side of her head.


    "Do you want to take a shower?" He asked her, his voice as light as a feather.


    Stella shook her head sideways in a no.


    "Want to rest?" He asked her once again to which she nodded.


    "Alright!" He replied and got off the bed.


    He picked up his t-shirt that was lying down on the floor on top of the pile of their clothes, and made his way back to her. He helped her with the shirt.


    After making sure she was comfortable, he snuggled against her and pulled up the duvet to cover their bodies.


    He pressed a lingering kiss on her forehead and closed his eyes. He soon heard her even breathing and drifted off to his own dreamland with a silly smirk resting over his face.


    ----------------


    Stella and Adam were buckling up their seat belts as the pilot announced that were about to land, but didn''t mention the name of their destination.


    Stella narrowed her eyes at Adam who was grinning like an idiot.


    "Not so fast sweetheart! You have to wait until the plane touches the ground." He added, teasing her. His words made Stella pursed her lips in a pout.


    When the plane finally landed, the couple exited together. Adam had an arm draped around her shoulders, holding her close to himself, while Stella was clutching his off-white cotton


    A group of around ten people were standing in a straight line. They bowed their heads when they saw the couple stepping down the plane. The men were dressed in a crisp floral half-sleeved shirts paired with a pair of plain white bermuda shorts.


    The two girls who were holding trays in their hands with some flowers on it , were sporting floral dresses.


    "Welcome to Hawaii!" All of them said in unison making Stella stop in her tracks.


    She turned her face to look at the man next to her, only to find him staring back at her.


    "H-Hawaii?" Stella spoke up in astonishment. Her were gleaming like the stars at night.


    Adam nodded his head in a yes as a low chuckle escaped his lips.


    "But what about the conference?" She gave him a confused look.


    "What conference?" Adam replied with a devilish smirk on his face.


    Realization slowly began to dawn on her as she stood rooted to the ground. There was no conference, it was a surprise trip for her.


    She gazed into his eyes which were staring back into hers filled with emotions that she couldn''t comprehend.


    She suddenly hugged Adam, wrapping her arms tightly around his lower back. "Thank you." She murmured meekly against his chest.


    "You don''t have to thank me babygirl. Not now, not ever." Adam hugged her back and pressed a kiss on the top of her head.


    The executives standing there were flabbergasted by the open display of emotions by their Boss. All of them had the same thought going through their minds. ''Who is this man and what has he done to our Boss?''


    But too bad for them, none of them had the courage to say it out loud.


    Adam guided Stella to the car that was already waiting for them on the runway.


    "Where are we going?" Stella couldn''t conceal her excitement.


    "You will see." Adam replied, giving her a lop-sided grin.


    Stella zoned out for a while after looking at his smile. ''How can someone be so perfect?''


    "Stella?" Adam''s voice brought her out of her thoughts and she realized that his was too close to hers.


    "What are you thinking about?" He asked her after getting her attention back to him.


    "Nothing." Stella replied and leaned her head against his shoulder, taking him by surprise.


    Stella was not like those clingy girlfriends. How bad Adam wished for her to be. But she wasn''t one show her emotions openly or come close to him on her own. It was always him who approaching her, wanting to be the center of her world. But no matter how she was, to him, she was just perfect.


    Adam felt her hands snaking around his arm. He just sat still in the same position and let her as she pleased.


    The car soon stopped before a lodging area and Adam stepped out, soon followed by Stella.


    "So, where will we be staying?" Stella asked him with a confused expression as she looked before her only to find a number of trees standing tall before them.


    "There." Adam grabbed her chin with his fingers and turned her face to her left. He pointed in a direction with the finger of his free hand.


    Stella moved her eyes to look into the direction he was pointing and felt her heart skip a beat at the scene before her.

 Chapter 117 - I Love It

    Stella moved her eyes to look into the direction he was pointing and felt her heart skip a beat at the scene before her.


    Before her were three small room like cabins which were a few feet above the ground. There were surrounded by a thick green small trees and plants bearing colorful wild flowers.


    The three rooms were at a distance from each other and were connected together by a rope bridge which had star shape fairy lights wrapped around the ropes. Since it was late in the evening,the lights were turned on, illuminating the path formed by the wooden planks.


    Stella was mesmerized by the beauty of the place. She couldn''t take eyes off it, even if she wanted to.


    "Do you like it? If not, then we can move to a hotel room." Adam''s voice brought her out of her daze.


    "What!!! Are you kidding me?" Stella replied with a horrified expression on her face. "We aren''t going anywhere. I love it." She continued, earning a bright smile from him, one which showed off his pearly white teeth.


    "I am glad that you like it." Adam wrapped both his arms around her waist from behind and placed a kiss on her shoulder.


    "We will like to rest for now. I will call the staff if we need anything." Adam added, turning his head to the five men standing at the sidelines, one of which was the manager of the place.


    "As you wish, Sir." The manger politely replied, bowing his head a little. "Your luggage has already been placed in the living room." He continued as he flicked his fingers, asking the other four men to leave and soon followed them after wishing the couple to enjoy their vacation.


    Adam took her hand, interlocking his fingers with hers, and guided her to the flight of stairs before the first room.


    The first room was a bit bigger than the second one but smaller than the last. It was like a living room cum dining room as there was a small couch placed against one of the wooden walls and a dining table placed at the other corner, next to the window which was looking over the beach that was in the distance. There were only two chairs accompanying it.


    Stella saw their luggage placed before the couch next to a small side table.


    As if reading her mind, Adam spoke up.


    "Someone will take care of it, you don''t have to trouble yourself with such trivial matters. Just enjoy yourself."


    "Thank you." Stella looked at him her eyes filled with gratitude.


    "I didn''t bring clothes for a vacation. There are suitable for a conference." She continued as if remembering something. She looked accusingly at Adam, glaring daggers at him.


    Adam chuckled as he rubbed her forehead. His little kitty can be fierce sometimes.


    "That has been taken care of. Come with me." He grabbed her by her shoulders and took her to the next room after crossing the rope bridge.


    A single circular mattress was placed in the centre of the room, directly on the wooden floor. It was covered by a white silk bed sheets and pillows and cushions with floral prints on them, were settled on it.


    There were two windows located on either side of the mattress with white and sky blue satin curtains.


    A number of leds were fixed inside the roof which were giving out a pale white light, illuminating the whole room.


    There was a door located on the other side of the room which lead to the third room and you have to a rope bridge to reach there as well.


    "You can rest for now. I have something to take care of." Adam spoke up.


    Since the duo had already showered and changed their clothes on the plane a while before it touched the ground, there was no need for them to freshen up again and they could just rest.


    "You are leaving?" Stella''s smile turned upside down.


    "I will be back before you even know it." Adam replied rubbing the back of her head.


    Stella could only nod her head.


    "Hey! What''s with this face?" Adam rubbed his strong fingers over her frown, trying to ease it.


    "Do you have to go?" Stella pursed her lips in a pout.


    "You know I wouldn''t have if I didn''t have to. I would love to snuggle up against you and sleep rather than doing anything else. But this is really important. It wouldn''t take much of my time." Adam placed a lingering kiss over her pouty lips.


    "Alright! Don''t take too long." Stella gave him a soft smile. ''How could he just coax me with a bunch of simple words?'' She thought inwardly.


    "I won''t." Adam replied before leaving her on her own. But he didn''t forget to kiss her one more time before he left.


    Stella looked at his parting figure and heaved out a tired sigh. Why was she missing him already?


    Once he was out of her sight, she took off her shoes and jumped on the mattress. Covering herself with the duvet, which had a floral print, she closed her eyes and soon fell asleep.

 Chapter 118 - Bear The Consequences

    Half an hour later, Adam stepped into the room and found his little elf sleeping peacefully. His lips curled up into soft smile as he kept his eyes fixed on her face, his gaze filled with all the emotions he felt towards her.


    Adam took off his shoes and shirt, leaving his black bermuda shorts on, and joined his girl. After getting under the duvet slowly and carefully, he wrapped his arms around her small waist and brought her closer to himself, careful of his actions as not to disturb her beauty sleep. Her back was now pressed against his bare chest.


    As if sensing his presence, Stella turned around, still in deep slumber, and wrapped her arm around his broad, muscular waist. She snuggled close to him, placing her face on his chest, right over his heart.


    Adam''s smile turned brighter, his lips curling up more.


    "Looks like you are drawn to me even in your sleep." He muttered under his breath.


    He wrapped his arms around her lower back and closed his eyes as his fingers drew small circles on her back. And he soon dozed off.


    ---------------


    Stella slowly opened her heavy eyelids and the first thing they landed on, was a toned, muscular bare chest.


    She didn''t need to look up to know who might be the owner of such a drool worthy body. If only she had done that, she would have been saved from the embarrassment of what she was about to do next.


    Stella retracted her hand, which was draped over his waist. Her fingers traced over the taut muscles, starting from his chest and all the way down to his toned abs.


    She tilted her face slightly and pressed a feather like kiss on his chest, right over his heart. One kiss turned into two and then three.


    For what she didn''t know, was that Adam had been wide awake way before she was, but decided not to move for he didn''t want to disturb her sleep. And now, he was glad that he did not as he was having the best time of his life.


    Stella was busy enjoying the mesmerizing sight before her when she felt something hard poking her leg which was resting over Adam.


    She tried to look down at the source while moving her leg away when a deep, husky voice interrupted her.


    "It''s not good to seduce a sleeping man."


    Stella felt her soul being sucked out of her body when she heard those words.


    Stella hesitantly raised her face up and found a pair of darkened gray eyes looking intensely at her.


    She gulped down as she tried to think of something to say to him.


    "I-I-I¡­.."


    "Shhhh!" Adam placed a finger over her quivering lips.


    "You have to take responsibility for what you did and bear the consequences." He spoke in a deep voice as he took her hand and placed over his already hardened member.


    Stella felt his not so little brother hardening more under her touch.


    Stella opened and closed her mouth a couple of times but nothing came out of it.


    "You were being so brave a little while back. What changed?" Adam spoke up again. "It''s not like I am going to eat you sweetheart, at least not yet."


    Stella looked into his eyes which looking back at her intently. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath.


    When she opened them again, Adam could see the change in them. There was no more nervousness in them, but rather they were brimming with confidence. It was the same confidence he used to see in her whenever she handles a meeting for him.


    Stella gazed into his eyes and slowly moved her hand, moving it inside his bermuda shorts. She caressed his hardened member slowly and hesitantly, still looking into his eyes.


    Adam lowered his shorts and boxers in one swift movement, releasing his already hardened member.


    Stella took a peep at it and felt blood rushing to her cheeks, tinting her face with a shade of red.


    Though she was feeling nervous, but she didn''t back down. It was too late for that anyway.


    She grabbed it in her hand and started caressing it, moving her fingers along the length of his member. She repeated the movements which Adam had taught her a day before, and soon she heard his breathing getting heavier.


    Adam groaned as her dainty fingers moved over his member, bringing him closer to finding his release with each movement. He clenched his jaw tightly and let her toy with him as she pleased.


    The movements of her inexperienced hand over his member, were turning him on more. His breath grew heavier as he was getting close to the edge.


    Stella felt him twitch in her hands and she fastened her movements, her eyes were set on his face as she took in every change hai expressions went through.


    Adam grunted and grabbed her hand, moving it away from his member as he released his fluids, muttering her name under his breath.

 Chapter 119 - A Flash

    Adam took deep breaths as he tried to recover from his ecstasy and calm himself down.


    He grabbed her face in between his palms and placed a lingering kiss over her lips.


    "You are going to be the death of me." He spoke after breaking the kiss as he gazed at her blushing face with a loving expression.


    "Don''t spout nonsense." Stella smacked his chest as her face contoured in displeasure. The word death and him in one sentence, wasn''t settling well with her, even if he was just joking.


    "I am not spouting nonsense Stella. For you, I could even lay down my life as long as you are safe and sound." He spoke as his fingers drew circle on her back.


    Stella was getting teary-eyed.


    "I am gonna go take a shower. If my guess is right then the last room must be the bathroom." Stella shifted the topic.


    Sensing the change in her mood, Adam did not speak any further on the topic and nodded his head.


    "I will ask the staff to change the sheets. You go and freshen up sweetheart. There are some clothes suitable for the weather here, already set in the closet. And yes, they will fit you, Katherine helped me with them." Adam gave him a soft smile.


    Stella nodded and headed towards the third room. She crossed the rope bridge and entered the bathroom. It was the biggest one of the three rooms.


    After closing the door, she looked around and found a built in closet in one corner. She made her way towards it and opened. There were a bunch of casual clothes along with some suitable for a beach, all in her size. She also saw some clothes for man hanging in there with her clothes.


    "Let''s freshen up Stella." She muttered under her breath as she closed the closet after picking out her clothes.


    ---------------


    Adam was sitting on the mattress when Stella came back.


    "I am gonna go take a shower. The staff will be here in a while with our dinner." Adam spoke up, looking at her face. He could tell that she was still upset.


    "Sure." She replied as she turned on the hair dryer.


    ---------------


    Adam entered the room, he was dressed in a black bermuda shorts and a maroon half-sleeved t-shirt which hugged his toned body.


    He deliberately chose these two colors because Stella was wearing a pair of black shorts and a maroon crop top.


    Stella was sitting on the mattress, scrolling through her phone when she felt his presence in the room.


    She looked up at him and then narrowed her eyes at him before looking back at her clothes.


    She rolled her eyes inwardly and decided to feign ignorance for now.


    "The food just arrived five minutes ago. I was waiting for you." She spoke up, pointing at the folding table that was placed on the mattress before her. There were a number of dishes placed on it, covered by lids.


    Adam pouted before joining her on the bed.


    ----------------


    "I am sorry." Adam stopped in his tracks and grabbed her hand.


    Stella didn''t reply to him back and kept looking ahead.


    They were having a walk by the shore after their dinner. Since it was close to midnight, there weren''t many people and it was quiet.


    "Stella? I am sorry. I shouldn''t have said that. I didn''t know that I mean that much to you." Adam added.


    Stella turned around and looked at him.


    "What did you just say?" Stella spoke up, narrowing her eyes at him.


    Adam saw the enraged look on her face and gulped. ''I shouldn''t have said that either.'' He scolded himself internally.


    "You said that because you didn''t know how much you mean to me?" Stella raised an eyebrow.


    "I-I-I¡­.." Adam stammered with his words for the first time in his life.


    "How can you not know how much you mean to me?" She spoke up again, taking a step closer to him.


    "I am just scared to loose you." Adam finally spoke up under her scrutinizing gaze, telling her about his deepest fear.


    "After Dad, I didn''t have anyone else with me. Uncle Liam and Blake were there, but they have their own lives to deal with." He took a pause before continuing.


    "I have you now, and you mean the world to me baby. It scares the living shit out of me to even think about that you might leave me. I¡­."


    Stella placed a finger over his lips, making him stop.


    "You mean the same to me you idiot. I was upset because you didn''t give importance to your life over mine. Have you ever thought about what might happen to me if anything happens to you? I can''t imagine my life without you." Stella hugged him, wrapping her arms tightly around his broad back.


    "And I love you too." She added meekly. She had finally replied to his confession.


    Adam was stunned for a while before coming back to the present.


    "What did you say?" Adam asked her, as her raised her face so that he could properly look at her.


    "I love you." Stella replied, gazing into his grey orbs.


    "I love you too baby." Adam replied and captured her lips, kissing her like never before.


    Their tongues danced together as they poured all of their emotions in the kiss.


    A camera flashed in the distance, but the two people it was pointed at, were too busy kissing each other to even notice it.

 Chapter 120 - Shares

    "Enjoy your vacations as much as you lovebirds can, because things won''t be the same when you return." Taylor spoke in a deep voice.


    He was sitting in his study room, leaning his back against the comfortable chair. His eyes were set on the screen of his laptop which was placed on the redwood study table.


    A picture occupied the whole screen in which the silhouettes of two people can be made, their lips touching, hands wrapped around each other.


    He took another puff from the cigarette which was sitting in between his two fingers. He picked up his cell phone and dialed a number.


    After a few rings, the call was connected.


    "Aren''t you enjoying yourself too much?" He spoke up first, not giving the other person a chance to greet him.


    "Why do you want from me?" A male voice came through the speaker.


    "You know what I want. The shares. Her shares." Taylor replied, taking another long drag from the cigarette before extinguishing it in the crystal ashtray.


    "Why are you doing this?" The other person asked.


    "Who do you think you are to question me back?" Taylor scoffed. "It''s not like those are yours to begin with."


    "Alright! You can have her shares, but I am keeping the remaining ones to myself." The man hurriedly spoke, not wanting to irk the devil in disguise.


    "Good." Taylor replied and hung up the call.


    "You will be in my arms soon." Taylor traced the smaller silhouette with his fingers.


    -----------------


    "How long are you going to take?" Adam shouted at the top of his lungs.


    After having their breakfast, the duo decided to head for the beach. Adam had changed into a navy blue bermuda shorts and a white half-sleeved t-shirt.


    He was lying down on the mattress, waiting for Stella to come out of the bathroom. She had been in there for twenty minutes already.


    "I am done." Stella entered the room, her head hung low as she looked at her knotted fingers.


    "Than¡­.." Adam trailed off as his eyes landed on her.


    She had a white see through cover-up wrapped around her upper body, her slender, fair legs were left exposed for him to see. He could barely make the outline of her black bikini.


    "What''s with the wrap sweetheart?" Adam''s gaze darkened. "We are going to the beach, there''s no need for that." He continued, not bothering to move from his position.


    Stella hesitantly removed the cover-up and let it pool next to her feet, her head still hung low.


    She was wearing a black monokini which had a halter neck and tie up lace bandages going across her waist to her back, crossing over each other and then coming back to the front.


    The long locks of her hazel brown hairs were tied up in a messy bun, leaving her fair, slender neck bare.


    Adam knew that she had always had a beautiful body, but her muscles have become somewhat toned since she had started her morning exercise routine.


    "Come here." Adam spoke up in a deep, husky voice.


    Stella complied and moved to stand next to the mattress.


    Adam stood up in a swift movement and grabbed her by her waist, pulling her closer.


    "I don''t know whether I should thank Katherine or point a gun to her head." His magnetic voice resonated in her ears.


    "Do you know how badly I want to pin you to the mattress right now?" He murmured next to her ear, taking the earlobe in between her lips, sucking on it.


    A low moan escaped from Stella''s lips as he continued to suck on to her earlobe. She could feel his hardened member pressed against her abdomen.


    "But let''s save it for later." He let go of her earlove reluctantly.


    "Let''s enjoy our beach time for now." He continued as he removed his t-shirt, throwing it on the mattress.


    The duo stepped out of their not so little hut and headed towards the shore. There was already an umbrella sat for them at a distance, with two resting chairs and a table.


    Adam had an arm placed over her lower back as she sat down on her chair. He brought his chair closer to hers before setting down.


    His hawk like eyes looked in every direction around them as he clenched his jaws. Every man there was eyeing his little elf, despite being with their own woman.


    He feel like punching someone, actually everyone.


    "There are girls who are eyeing you as well. So, relax." Stella spoke up as if sensing the change in his mood. Before Adam could reply to her, a tall, black haired girl, approached them.


    "Hey handsome." She greeted Adam, treating Stella as thin air. "What is a devilishly handsome guy like you doing here all alone?" She asked him, giving him a seductive look as her finger poked his rock hard chest.


    "Keep your hands off my man." Stella grabbed her finger and twisted it at an angle, making her shriek.


    "You bitch." The girl shouted at her, snatching her finger away from her grasp.


    "I bite too, wanna try?" Stella scoffed watching the girl run away.


    She was busy scowling at the retreating back of the girl escaping away when she heard a deep, magnetic laughter coming from beside her.


    "Come here." Adam pulled her onto his lap without waiting for her reply.

 Chapter 121 - New Lead

    Stella was getting dressed up for their dinner.


    Even though they were having their dinner out in the open, Adam had asked her to keep it light and simple. She was more than happy to oblige.


    She wore a light peach colored off-shoulder frock which covered till her knees. The dress had two layers of clothes, the inner being plain whereas the outer layer of a soft, see through material which had some golden flakes in it.


    The dress seemed to glitter under the warm lighting of the bathroom with the slightest of her movements.


    She kept the makeup to minimum but used a starking maroon lip shade to paint her lips. Tying up her hair in a messy bun, she left a few strands lose, allowing them to frame her face. The only jewelry she wore was the ring that Adam had purposed her with.


    After putting on a pair of golden wedges, she looked at her reflection in the vanity mirror, one last time.


    Satisfied with her look, Stella''s lip curled up in a soft smile as she headed towards the bedroom where Adam was patiently waiting for her.


    When she entered the room, her eyes landed on Adam, who was sitting on the mattress as he played with his phone.


    "I am ready." She spoke up softly.


    Adam raised his head, his eyes shifting from his phone to look at her.


    "You are looking beautiful." His lips curled up in a bright smile, one which could easily steal your breath away.


    "And you look ravishing, as always." Stella returned his smile with her own.


    He was wearing a midnight blue dress pants, which hugged his toned legs perfectly, and a pearl white button-down shirt. The shirt was left untucked, the first two buttons left undone and the sleeves were folded up to his elbows.


    He stood before Stella and cupped her face. "Let''s go before I change my mind." He pecked her pursed lips before guiding her out.


    Circles of yellow fairy lights illuminated the cold sand. A wooden table was placed in the centre, accompanied by a two wooden chairs. A vase filled with white roses were resting in the middle of the table.


    Stella took it all in, and turned her head to face Adam.


    The sea breeze was playing with his already unkempt hair, making them more wild. But it didn''t reduce his charm, but rather added more to it.


    "How do you always manage to do such things?" Stella asked him as she shook her head, her lips curled up in an unnoticeable smile.


    "Anything for you sweetheart. Anything for you and your smile." Adam replied, pressing a feather like kiss in the side of her head.


    "Shall we?" Adam extended his hand before her which she willingly took.


    Under the cloudless night sky, the duo ate their dinner in harmony as the sounds of waves crashing against the shore could be heard in the background. The full moon shone over the duo, brightening up the dark sky.


    -----------------


    "Boss?" Lillian entered Blake''s room without bothering to knock as usual.


    "What is it?" He asked her in a soft tone.


    "I have a new lead." She replied as she made her way towards him.


    He was sitting leisurely on the couch as a laptop was placed before him. His eyes were glued to the video that was being played on the screen. A man was being beaten black and blue by two guys who were as big and burly as their victim himself.


    Lillian sat down directly on his lap as she turned off the laptop.


    Once she had his undivided attention, she started to speak about the matter she had actually come to discuss with him.


    "Regarding the assignment you gave me, I have a new lead. I don''t know for sure who the culprit is and exactly whom we should target except for the fact that the person is a man. But I have a plan to lure him out. And I need your help with it." She spoke up in one go.


    "This humble servant is always at your service. Tell me what is it?" Blake replied as he twisted her body and pinned her down on the couch, his lips claiming hers.


    ---------------------


    Stella entered their bedroom with Adam following her closely behind. She couldn''t see a thing in there as the entire room was engulfed in darkness.


    "Can you please turn on lights?" She asked him to which he complied.


    As soon as the lights were turned on, Stella looked around in awe.


    The entire room was decorated with red roses and star shaped fairy lights. The sky blue floral bed sheets were now changed into plain white, silk ones. A number of rose petals were set in the centre of the mattress in the shape of a heart.


    She turned around to look at Adam, only to find him staring back at her with his darkened gazed. He slowly and leisurely made his way to where she was standing and cupped her face, smashing his thin lips against her soft ones.

 Chapter 122 - I Want You

    *WARNING!!! Mature content ahead!!! Readers who are under 18 and those who feel uncomfortable reading it may skip the chapter and the next one as well.*


    He slowly and leisurely made his way to where she was standing and cupped her face, smashing his thin lips against her soft ones.


    Adam sucked onto her soft lips, slowly pushing her body towards the mattress. Once they were next to the mattress, he picked her up and placed her down on the white silk sheets without his lips parting away from hers.


    Their tongues clashed against each other''s, fighting for dominance. Adam reluctantly let go of her lips, allowing her to breathe. He moved towards the foot end of the mattress to remove her sandals along with his own shoes, throwing them somewhere on the floor.


    He made his way back to her and captured her lips with his own once again. His hands traveled down to caress her curves as his lips stole her breath.


    Stella gasped against his lips as she felt his hands  brushing against the side of her breasts.


    Adam was straddling her, his knees bearing the weight of his body. He didn''t want to crush his little elf in the heat of the moment.


    His lips moved to her jaw where he bit her smooth skin before soothing the spot with his tongue. His lips trailed down to her neck, sucking, grazing and licking along the way, and latched on to the soft spot.


    Adam sucked on to the spot, making sure to leave a hickey which wouldn''t fade for the next few days.


    Low moans escaped her lips every now and then as a result of his assault. Her fingers found their way into his silky black hairs, twisting around the locks of his hair.


    Adam moved his hands from her waist to her back. His fingers fumbling as he tried to find the zipper, which he eventually did. Unzipping the dress, he pulled it down all the way and threw it away.


    Stella was only left wearing her undergarments, a black, lacy, strapless bra and a matching underwear.


    Adam looked at her, his gaze darkening more and more. He knew he wouldn''t be able to stop himself tonight.


    "You are no less than an Aphrodite for me Stella." He spoke up in a husky voice as his eyes feasted on the beauty lying under him.


    Stella gulped down a mouthful of saliva. She was still breathing heavily, trying to control the desire that was threatening to explode.


    Adam unhooked her bra, removing it in the process, and threw it away.


    He smirked looking at her nipples which were already perked up. His lips latched onto the right one as his fingers began to play with its twin. His tongue rolled over the perked up nipple before his teeth grazed over it, biting it in the process.


    He heard Stella hiss at his action. He soothed the stinging sensation by licking it with his tongue before sucking on to it. He sucked on to it until the pink pearl had turned into a red one, his fingers playing with the other one as he cupped it in his palm.


    He shifted his lips to the other as his hand grabbed the first right one and cupped it. After paying the left one his equal attention, his lips trailed down.


    "A-Adam." Stella called his name softly im between her moans. Her mind was hazy as every sensation travelled through her body, sending pleasurable tingles everywhere.


    "You liked what I did to you the last time, didn''t you?" Adam spoke in between his kisses. "Then you are gonna love what I am about to do next."


    His lips stopped at the hem of her underwear before he hooked his fingers in it and tugged it down, removing it in one swift movement. Her lacy underwear joined the rest of her clothes.


    He kissed her wet folds before burying his tongue in between them. His tongue played with her clit, licking her warm juices, sending her delightful shivers through her body.


    Stella felt her womanhood throb in pain, eagerly waiting for him. Her breathing grew heavier with every lick. Her fingers clutched the locks of his hair tighter when his tongue dived into her opening.


    She shut her eyes tightly as her back arched upwards when his tongue began to move inside her.


    Adam rolled his tongue inside her, tasting her in the process. He felt her insides tightening and took out his tongue, replacing it with his finger.


    Stella gasped at the sudden intrusion. His finger moved deeper and deeper until it was fully inside of her.


    Adam moved his lips back to her and peppered it with feather like kisses as his finger started to move slowly.


    He bit her earlobe, making her gasp.


    "I want you Stella. I want you so badly." He whispered next to her ear in his deep husky voice, making her insides clench around his finger.


    "W-who''s stopp-ing y-y-you?" She managed to reply in between her moans.


    Her words were enough to waken up the desire which he was trying to bury deep inside him all along.


    He increased the pace of his finger which was moving inside and out of her as his lips latched onto her neck.

 Chapter 123 - Let Me Hear You

    *WARNING!!! 18+ Content ahead. You guys know what to know.*


    Adam sucked onto the soft spot as his finger moved inside her, earning her moans in return which were not less than a reward for him.


    He felt her insides tightening around his finger, he knew that she was close to finding her release and deliberately slowed down his movements.


    Stella could feel her orgasm building up, she knew she was close to the edge. She let out a frustrated groan when Adam slowed down his movements.


    "D-don''t st-op." She managed to say in between her gasps for air.


    "Oh! I am not planning to babygirl, not tonight." Adam murmured against her skin and moved his lips to her cleavage, biting and sucking on her fair, smooth skin.


    "This will hurt a bit." He said as he inserted his second finger inside her, making her yelp.


    "I am sorry." Adam kissed the side of her temple. He let her get used to his fingers before he slowly started to move them again, inside and out, slowly. He thumb pressed against her clit, swirling the pink tender nub.


    "A-Adam." Stella moaned in pleasure. "Faster."


    "With pleasure baby." He murmured against her perked up nipple before biting it hardly, his fingers increasing their pace, in and out, swirling, hitting her g-spot.


    "Ahh." Stella moaned in satisfaction, her back arched upwards, her eyes clamped shut as she threw her head back in pleasure.


    "Let me hear you baby." Adam murmured against her skin as he fastened his movements. He felt her insides tightening around his fingers once again, but this time, he didn''t slowed down his pace.


    "Aaahhhhhhhh." Stella moaned as she released her fluids over his fingers, delightful tremors running through her body.


    Adam took out his fingers and lapped them clean, not leaving a single drop of it behind.


    "Do you know how divine you taste?" He murmured in a deep voice as his eyes lingered on the flushed face of his girl, who was breathing heavily.


    Adam removed his shirt after opening two more buttons, and took out a foil packet before he unzipped his jeans, yanking it down along with his boxers. His clothes soon joined hers on the floor.


    He ripped open the foil and took out the condom, rolling it on his hardened member.


    Before Stella could come back to her senses, Adam placed his already hardened member in between the lips of her womanhood, rubbing it on her clit before placing the tip at the entrance of her opening.


    "It''s gonna hurt sweetheart." He spoke softly next to her ear before pushing his rod inside her halfway.


    The sudden intrusion made Stella return back to her senses as the pain tore up her insides.


    "Aaaggghhh." She groaned in pain, her eyes tearing up.


    "Shhh!!! I am so sorry baby." Adam murmured softly, peppering her face with feather like kisses. He kissed away the tears which had managed to escape her eyes.


    "It won''t hurt for long." He muttered against her lips before capturing her lips. He kissed her lips gently.


    Soon he felt her body relax around his member.


    "Just grab my shoulders if you feel pain." He spoke up softly before he started to move slowly, in and out of her.


    The pain Stella felt was replaced by pleasure as he continued to move his hardened member in and out of her. She grabbed his shoulders, digging her nails into his muscles as he increased the pace of his movements.


    Stella moaned as his hardened rod moved deeper and deeper inside her with each thrust.


    "F-faster." Stella spoke up in between her gasps.


    Adam smirked and complied to her demand, thrusting his member, deeper into her. He increased the pace of his movements, ramming his rod inside her, hitting her g-spot.


    He grabbed her right nipple with his teeth and began sucking on to it, his one hand grabbed the other one and flicked the pink bud before grasping it between his fingers while his other hand was carrying his weight as he slammed his rod inside her.


    Stella was a moaning mess under his assault. She threw her head back as he hit her g-spot again and again. Her insides were tightening once again.


    Adam gritted his teeth as she grew tighter around his member with each thrust, clenching it in the process.


    Her orgasm was building up when she heard his words, trying to coax her.


    "Don''t hold it in sweetheart. Let it go. Let it go for me."


    As if his words were her undoing, she released her fluids once again, but this time around his member muttering his name.


    Adam rammed his rod inside her once again before he found his own release muttering her name. "Stella."


    He shifted to his side, grabbing her waist in the process, and made her lie on his bare chest as both of them tried to catch their breaths.

 Chapter 124 - Carston Williamson

    He shifted to his side, grabbing her waist in the process, and made her lie on his bare chest as both of them tried to catch their breaths.


    Adam rubbed her bare back, his fingers drawing circles on her smooth, fair skin. He did not utter a single word, but listened to her breaths, which were becoming even as the seconds ticked by.


    After a while, he shifted to his side, making Stella lie down on the mattress.


    "I will be back in a minute or two." He kissed her forehead before getting up. He grabbed his jeans which was lying on the floor and out it on and headed towards the bathroom.


    He came back a couple of minutes later with a small wet towel in his hands. After sitting next to her, he wiped down her entire body. His every action was filled with tenderness.


    He pressed a lingering kiss on her forehead. "I am gonna go and take a quick shower. You must be tired, so you should sleep." He spoke softly as he pulled up the duvet, covering her up to her neck.


    "I will be back before you even know it." He pressed a loud kiss against her swollen lips.


    Stella hummed as she nodded her head. She was too tired to even say a yes. Her body didn''t have an ounce of energy left.


    Adam smiled at her and left the room.


    When he returned after taking a shower, she was already asleep. Adam made his way towards the mattress and lied down quietly next to her. He moved under the covers and moved closer to her.


    He kissed the crown of her head as he wrapped his hand around her waist.


    "I don''t know how I am going to keep myself in control now." He muttered against her hair hair before closing his eyes.


    ------------------


    Back in Germany.


    In Amsterdam, a man in his late forties or early fifties entered the quiet cemetery. He had a tall figure with broad build. Even though he was old, he had maintained himself and looked handsome.


    His obsidian black eyes glinted under the dark sky. It was raining heavily, with thunder and lighting. He was holding a black umbrella above his head, while his other hand was holding a bouquet of red roses. He was clad in black from head to two, walking towards a certain tombstone with steady steps.


    The man was none other than Carston Williamson, Taylor''s father.


    He stopped before the tombstone and kneeled before it, not bothering about his handmade suit. He took a handkerchief from the inside of his pocket and wiped the stone.


    He did not say anything and quietly placed the bouquet before it. He sat there like that for half an hour, staring at the white gravestone, not bothering about the rain which was getting heavier with each passing minute.


    Every Sunday evening, he would visit the same grave with a bouquet of red roses and sit here quietly. He would clean it with his handkerchief and look at the stone for half an hour before leaving.


    This time, it was not any different from the others. After sitting there for half an hour, he quietly stood up and left, not forgetting to give it one last glance.


    The caretaker of the cemetery looked at his departing figure and shook his head. "The lady must have meant something to him." He muttered to himself before running away to take some shelter.


    ----------------


    "Good morning, my little sunshine."


    Stella was greeted with warm, mellow voice as soon as she opened her eyelids.


    Her lips curled up in a sweet smile. "Good morning to you too." She replied, stretching her arms as a yawn escaped from her mouth.


    "You look..." Adam was interrupted by his own phone. He picked it up to look at the caller''s name. His expression turned sour when he saw who the caller was. It was Blake.


    "What do you want?" Adam spoke into the speaker as he held the phone close to his ear. The fingers of his free hands were playing with the locks of Stella''s hair, twirling around them.


    Adam''s expressions turned cold as he heard his reply.


    "Okay." Adam spoke up after Blake had finished and hung up the call.


    "Is everything alright?" Stella couldn''t help but ask him.


    Adam heaved a sigh before turning his face towards her, his expression turning softer.


    "Yeah! But we have to go back as soon as possible." He replied with a sad smile. "I am sorry. I promised you a week."


    "It''s alright! You don''t have to apologize to me. These last two days have been the best in my life. I couldn''t ask for more." Stella pecked his lips.


    Before she could move her lips away, Adam captured them in between his own as his hand travelled under the covers while the other one was holding her head in place.

 Chapter 125 - Ginger Head

    The private jet belonging to Levinson''s Corp., landed on the runway.


    Blake was leaning against a black Maybach, his eyes were set on the couple walking down a flight of stairs, their figures interlaced.


    "Hey." He greeted Adam before turning to face Stella. "I apologise for ruining your trip, but it was urgent." He gave her a side hug.


    "I know, or else you wouldn''t have dared to interrupt us." She gave him a cheeky smile in return.


    Blake shook his head and opened the backseat door for her.


    The trio settled in the car as the staff loaded their suitcases in the back of the car.


    "Where''s Lillian?" Stella asked him as soon as the car drove away.


    "She''s resting at home." Blake replied looking at her through the rear view mirror. He was sitting in the front passenger seat while Adam sat next to Stella at the back.


    Stella looked at the driver and recognized him right away. It was the same guy she threatened and ran away when she visited the club last time.


    "She wanted to come with me but she was too tired to even move. I had to threaten her to make her stay back and rest." Blake continued, bringing her out of her thoughts.


    "Ohh!!! What did you threaten her with?" Stella''s curiosity was piqued. ''What could make Lillian give in so easily?''


    "Nothing much. I just told her that she won''t be getting any sex for a week if she didn''t rest." Blake replied casually, making Stella choke on her own saliva.


    "Y-y-you¡­." Stella tried to retort back, but couldn''t think of anything.


    "What? You are the one who asked me." Blake added with a nonchalant expression.


    "How am I supposed to know that you blackmailed her with¡­ that?" Stella retorted, narrowing her eyes at him.


    While these two were busy bickering like kids, Adam was gazing out though the tinted window. A number of thoughts were going through his mind, especially a particular one. He didn''t want to do that. He didn''t want to walk down that path, but it seemed that it was the only way he could protect Stella.


    His eyes turned towards his side, landing on her. She was busy arguing with Blake.


    Stella felt a pair of eyes boring into her. She could tell who they belonged to without even looking.


    "Is there something on my face?" She asked, turning her face towards him.


    Adam shook his head sideways as he patted the top of her head, earning a pout from her.


    Adam placed a soft kiss on her pouty lips.


    "Come here." He asked her as he grabbed her elbow, tugging her towards himself.


    Stella complied and snuggled into his chest.


    The rest of the drive was spent in silence as the car headed towards its destination.


    ---------------


    On the same runway, another private jet landed after an hour.


    A tall, lean man clad in a navy blue office suit, stepped out. His slightly curled ginger hair, stood out under the bright sunlight. His fair, smooth skin could even put girls to shame. His sharp jawline could even cut through a paper. His ocean blue eyes were hidden behind a pair of black shades.


    Two bulky man, who were dressed in black suits, followed him quietly, their sharp eyes taking in their surroundings.


    The ginger head settled in a black Audi SUV which was parked on the runway. His bodyguards settled in the car next to it before the two cars left the runway.


    ----------------


    "What are you going to do now?" Blake asked Adam with a worried expression.


    Both of them were in his study while Stella was taking a warm shower to wash off her tiredness.


    "There''s only one way." Adam replied, lost in his own thoughts.


    "You are not talking about that?" Blake asked him once again. He had a hunch about what might Adam be referring to, but he wished to be wrong.


    "I can not protect her if I don''t have the power. Whoever is behind all of this, isn''t a simple man." Adam replied, proving his suspicion right. " I need to be strong enough first before bringing him down. And for that, I need to return back to that world."


    "But Adam, you guys won''t be safe anymore. You know the amount of attention it draws." Blake tried to coax him.


    "Dad stepped down from the throne when he was my age, he did it for Mom. But look what happened in the end, he was murdered." Adam''s lips curled up in a sad smile. "I don''t have any other choice but to step up and claim it back. It belongs to me anyways. I have to do that for her Blake. I have to do that for our future."


    Blake heaved a tired sigh. "You don''t have to claim anything. It was yours to begin with, still is."

 Chapter 126 - Scott???

    Blake heaved a tired sigh. "You don''t have to claim anything. It was yours to begin with, still is."


    "I was just looking over it Adam, just like my Dad did for yours." He continued, his eyes were set on Adam, who was lost in his own thoughts.


    "Just put the word forward." Adam came out of his daze.


    "I will. I will spread the word that you are taking over." Blake replied, his lips curling up in a faint smile. ''This is going to be fun.'' He thought inwardly. He was anticipating how this news was going to shake the underworld.


    "The lunch is ready." The door of the study flew open, showing Stella who was standing by the door frame.


    "Let''s go. I am famished." Blake stood up and made his way out, not bothering to wait for the duo.


    "How are you feeling now?" Adam asked her, his voice laced with concern as he approached her.


    "A bit better, but still sleepy." Stella replied to him, wrapping her hands around his upper arm.


    "You should take some rest after lunch then." Adam added, furrowing his eyebrows.


    Stella nodded and dragged him downstairs, towards the dining room.


    As always, he let her do as she pleased. He didn''t mind being dragged by her for the rest of his life.


    The duo joined Blake on the table, who was already busy digging in his plate.


    -----------------


    "What are you planning?" Rachel asked Taylor, who was busy going through some files.


    "That''s none of your concern. Your little brain won''t be able to comprehend it anyways." Taylor replied without looking up from the file which was in his hands. "You are only good at using your body, so just stick to it."


    "You are the one who said it." She scoffed as she strutted to the couch where he was sitting.


    She didn''t have any clothes on, but a white sheet wrapped around her body. She let go of the sheet and stood before him stark naked.


    She snatched the file from him and placed it down on the table before straddling him.


    *WARNING! Mature content ahead. You guys know the drill. The end will be marked a dotted lines.*


    She boldly took our his member out of his trousers and began stroking it with her hands. She felt it hardening under her fingers and let go of it. She placed in between her thighs and rubbed it over her clit.


    Taylor continued sitting back leisurely and enjoyed himself. His arms were resting on the back of the couch as his eyes were set on her perky breasts which were moving up and down.


    When his member was hard enough, Rachel held it in place as she positioned herself over it. She slowly slid it inside her, throwing her head back in pleasure as his member filled her emptiness, filling her up.


    She started to move up and down over his hardened member and moaned in pleasure.


    Taylor grabbed her waist and increased the pace of her movements as he groaned.


    They both moved in unison, trying to match the pace of other as moans and lewd voices filled the room.


    ------------------


    "Good morning sweetheart." Adam greeted her as he latched his lips over her neck.


    "I didn''t get to taste you last night." Adam murmured against her skin as he bit the spot.


    He was trying to have his way with her last night but she turned him down right away. Moreover, she threatened to sleep in the other room if she tried to pull off some stunt after lying down next to her.


    The poor guy didn''t even get to have his goodnight kiss.


    "We are getting late for the office." Stella tried to push him away, but her attempts were nothing before his strength. He was hugging her waist tightly, not moving an inch as he kissed her neck.


    "Adam!" Stella yelped as he bit her soft spot.


    "What? I didn''t even get my good night kiss last night." He moved his face away from her neck, his lips were pursed in a pout as he sulked like a child.


    Stella rolled her eyes back at his antics but still gave in. She brought her lips close to his and kissed him, taking him by surprise.


    Adam soon came out of the shock and reciprocated, taking the lead.


    --------------


    At the office,


    Stella could feel everyone''s eyes on herself, following her every action. She took a deep breath to calm herself down. She couldn''t do anything but to ignore those prying eyes.


    She walked towards Adam''s office with a red file in her hands. Adam was having a meeting with a CEO of a company that had its headquarters in Amsterdam.


    She knocked at the door and waited for his reply.


    "Come in." His melodious voice reached her ears and she entered.


    She walked up to his table and passed him the file before she turned her head to greet the ginger head youngman.


    "Good mor¡­.." The words got stuck in her throat as her eyes widened.


    "Scott???" The name rolled off her tongue before she could come out of her shocked state.

 Chapter 127 - How Did You Do It?

    "Scott???" The name rolled off her tongue before she could come out of her shocked state.


    "Stella!" The ginger head spoke up, his lips curling up in a bright smile. "I thought I won''t get to see you ever again." He stood up from his seat and engulfed her in a bear hug.


    "Me too." Stella was being crushed in between him arms, but still managed to reply to him.


    "How are you doing?" Scott asked her, not letting her go.


    "At the moment, I am having a hard time breathing. You are crushing me, Scott." Stella mumbled.


    "Oh! I am sorry." He replied, letting her go. "Got carried away their for a minute." He gave her a cheeky smile.


    "It''s alright! I am used to it, or at least I was." She giggled in return.


    "What are you doing here?" She continued.


    "Well, yours truly here managed to sign a contract with the Levinson''s Corp." He replied excitedly, but it soon died down when he realized that he was sitting in Adam''s office. ''Uh-oh.'' He turned his face towards the other side of the table and gulped a mouthful of saliva.


    "I am so sorry." He whispered, looking at Adam. He had heard about how ruthless Adam Levinson was when it came to business, which definitely included his meetings.


    Stella turned around to look in the same direction as he was. As soon as she did, her eyes landed on a face which was as black as the bottom of a pot, may be even more.


    "What''s with your face?" She asked Adam, raising an eyebrow at him.


    "You know him? You know Scott Trevor?" Adam replied to her with a question of his own.


    "Uh-huh." Stella nodded her head in a yes.


    "How?" Adam gritted his teeth.


    "He was my senior in high school." Stella replied, not giving him much details.


    "It didn''t seem like he was just your senior a minute ago." Adam added, hinting towards the hug.


    "Is that jealousy I hear in your voice?" Stella curled her lips up in a smirk.


    "Answer my question." Adam narrowed his eyes at her.


    Stella made her way around the table and grabbed his face in between her palms before placing a loud, wet kiss on his lips.


    Scott, who was still standing in his spot, felt his soul leaving his body when he saw Stella kissing Adam.


    "Why are you still standing?" Stella asked Scott, not moving her eyes from Adam''s face. "Have a seat." She continued.


    Scott furrowed his brows as he looked at her back. Before he could open his mouth to say something, Adam spoke up.


    "Have a seat Mr. Trevor." Adam added, not bothering to look at him.


    When Scott was settled in his seat once again, Stella turned around and sat down on Adam''s lap.


    Adam wrapped his arms around her waist immediately, he wouldn''t like it if she slipped from his lap.


    "How do we know each other? Tell him." Stella asked Scott as she leaned against Adam''s sturdy chest.


    Scott looked at the duo before him, still confused about what was actually happening.


    "Start talking." Stella added, giving him a frustrated look.


    Scott furrowed his eyebrows, but replied nonetheless. "She got into my high school on a full scholarship. I was her senior, a year ahead of her. We were paired up for a team to represent our school at a quiz competition. That''s how we got to know each other."


    Stella interrupted him. "And then we were asked to represent the school at every single competition. Sometimes it was just the two of us, at others, there were other students as well. But over time, we became close, inseparable you could say. He was the only friend I had at that hell."


    "He helped me getting better after my parents died. He helped me in running away from my so called family. He was always there for me." Stella continued as her lips curled up in a soft smile.


    She turned to face Adam. " He was the only family I had at that time. He was my best friend Adam, still is."


    "So, I want you to meet Scott Trevor, my best friend." Stella cupped his cheeks.


    "And you boy, meet Adam Levinson, my boyfriend." She turned her face towards Scott and continued with a cheeky smile.


    "What!!!!" Scott asked her, not believing his ears. His jaw was almost touching the floor.


    "Yes, yes. You heard it right. The great Adam Levinson is my boyfriend." Stella added, her chin slightly raised up in the air.


    Adam gazed at her face which was brimming with happiness. It was the first time that she had called him as her boyfriend, and that too before somebody else.


    "How did you do it?" Scott asked her, still not believing the fact that his high school best friend, who hated boys other than him, could actually manage to bag such a big fish. ''Damn girl.''


    "She didn''t need to do anything except for being herself." It was Adam who replied to him.

 Chapter 128 - Look At Me

    "She didn''t need to do anything except for being herself." It was Adam who replied to him.


    Scott looked at Adam who was busy gazing at Stella with a lovesick expression. His company had worked with Levinson''s Corp. before and that is how he knew Adam in person. He knew that Adam had always maintained a distance from women, whether he was at business meetings or some big corporate events. For the cold hearted CEO to actually fall in love with a girl, that too his boring high school best friend, shocked him to the core.


    He still had his jaw hanging down, touching the floor, when Stella couldn''t take it anymore and pointed it out to him.


    "Close your mouth before a fly gets in." Stella stuck her tongue out at him.


    "I still can not believe it." Scott raised his hands up in the air in frustration. He still couldn''t believe what he was seeing.


    "Not my problem." Stella replied as she played with lapels of Adam''s coat.


    "Well, if you are like her family then that makes you mine as well." Adam gave him a faint smile.


    "What?" Scott came out of his thoughts. "Then I should thank the little one here." He continued after a pause, pointing his chin towards Stella.


    "Coming back to the business, the contract can be signed the day after tomorrow. I will ask my PR team to arrange for a press conference. All the big news channels will be invited." Adam added with a straight face.


    "That''s good then." Scott replied as he stood up. "It is nice working with you, just like always." He extended a hand towards him, giving him his signature lop-sided grin.


    "The pleasure is mine." Adam shook his hand firmly, not bothering to get up. It''s not like he could even if he wanted to, Stella refused to move from his lap, and there was no way he would do something to disturb her.


    "I will take my leave now. You guys carry on." Scott added.


    "It''s almost lunch time, and it looks like you guys have a lot to catch up with. So, why don''t we have our lunch together." Adam spoke up looking at the girl in his arms.


    "It''s a good idea. As long as she doesn''t mind." Scott replied, his eyes moving towards her direction. For some reason, Stella refused to look at him. He could tell something wasn''t right with her. And knew that if he could tell that, Adam could too.


    "What do you say sweetheart?" Adam murmured softly, rubbing the back of her head.


    Stella only nodded her head in a yes.


    Adam looked back at Scott and shrugged in response to his questioning gaze. Both of them had the same question going through their minds at that moment. ''What happened to her mood? Wasn''t she fine a minute ago?''


    "What are we waiting for? Let''s go then." Adam stood up with Stella in his arms. She didn''t even resist and let him carry as she buried her face in his chest.


    The two men walked towards the door with Adam leading the way. He stopped right before the door.


    "You sure you want to go out like this?" He asked Stella. He wouldn''t mind carrying her all the way to his car, but she definitely would. He knew her too well.


    Stella came out of her daze and shook her head sideways.


    "Alright." Adam replied before putting her down on her feet.


    The trio headed downstairs, walking side by side.


    Once they were in the underground parking, Scott excused himself and made his way towards his car. He asked his driver to follow Adam''s car all the way to the restaurant because he would be leaving for his hotel from there.


    "Sorry, I had to inform the driver." He spoke up once he settled down in the backseat of Adam''s Maybach.


    "It''s alright." Adam replied to him, before turning on the ignition.


    Twenty minutes later, a black Maybach pulled up before the entrance of a lavish restaurant.


    As soon as they stepped out, they were greeted by the manager of the restaurant, who had an average height, but it didn''t lessen his charm. Adam had left him a message when Scott went to have a word with his driver, letting him know about their plan.


    He bowed his head in respect and greeted the trio before guiding them to their private room on the top floor.


    After the trio settled down, a waiter came inside the room with their menus. He stood quietly at the side as the trio decided on their food.


    Everyone ordered a couple of dishes. Adam didn''t forget to order Stella''s favorite dessert before passing the menus back to the waiter and telling him about their drinks.


    The waiter bowed and left the room.


    As soon as he left, Scott stood up from his place and walked towards Stella. He couldn''t take it anymore.


    "What happened to you little one?" He asked her as he got down on one of his knees, not caring about the branded pants.


    "Look at me." He lifted her chin up with his fingers to make her look at him as she refused to do so herself.


    Stella finally looked at him with her teary eyes and jumped from her chair and hugged him. She broke down in tears as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

 Chapter 129 - Get Rid Of Him

    Stella finally looked at him with her teary eyes and jumped from her chair and hugged him. She broke down in tears as she wrapped her arms around his neck.


    "Shhh! Little one." Scott rubbed her back, trying to calm her down. He looked at Adam with confusion written on his face as he continued to rub her back.


    "What happened girl? Talk to me." Scott murmured softly, but didn''t get a reply back.


    Stella continued crying hysterically, hugging him tightly.


    Adam looked at the scene before him and felt a burning sensation spreading through his chest. It wasn''t jealousy, but rather heartache. It was the first time he was seeing her cry that badly. Seeing her like that, shattered his heart. All he wanted to do was to hold her in his arms. But he knew it wasn''t his place to do so at the moment. So, he just sat there quietly, looking at her back which was moving up and down as she continued crying.


    "Stop with the crying already Stella, please." Scott murmured again. He couldn''t bear to see her like this. He would always want his little one to smile brightly.


    "I-I-I¡­ am-m s-so s-s-or-ry." She finally spoke up in between her cries.


    "You don''t have to be sorry for anything. You know that I won''t ever mind whatever you do." Scott replied, patting her back softly.


    "W-what I did, was wrong. It was wrong in so many ways. You helped me when I needed it most. You helped me in escaping from my family and instead of going with your arrangements, I ran away from you as well." She added, trying to control the tears which refused to stop.


    "Do you think running away from me is that easy?" Scott replied with a chuckle. "I have been keeping an eye on you since you left Amsterdam. Though you didn''t go to the place I arranged for you, it wasn''t hard for me to track you down. You know that?" Scott continued as he separated her from himself.


    "I was shocked to see you today cause my men couldn''t track your movements after you joined the Levinson''s Corp." He looked at Adam with a raised eyebrow.


    Adam just shrugged in response, his eyes were still set on his little elf.


    "You were my little one then, you are now, and you always will be." Scott wiped off her tears with his thumb. "How could I mind such a small thing? My little sister is more important to me than such trivial matters." He pinched her nose making her groan.


    "I do hate you for one thing though. My own parents adore you more than they ever did to me." He flicked her forehead, making her yelp.


    A knock on the door interrupted them. Scott stood up from his kneeling position and settled on his seat.


    Adam took out a tissue paper from the tissue box. He turned to face Stella once again who was now looking back at him with her red rimmed eyes.


    "You look ugly when you cry." He spoke up with an expressionless face as he began to wipe her face clean with the tissue paper.


    Stella only looked at him quietly, her lips pursed in a pout, and let him do as he pleased.


    Looking at her expressions, a soft smirk appeared on Adam''s lips. ''How adorable she looks!.'' He thought to himself. But there was no way he was going to tell her that.


    After wiping off her face properly, he spoke up.


    "Come in." Hearing his voice, the waiter ushered in with a few others following him.


    Each one of them held a dish in his hands and walked towards their table. After placing their orders on the table, they bowed and left the room.


    The waiter who had taken their orders served their drinks before leaving as well.


    "You want to eat or are there any unshed tears left?" Adam asked her, giving her a stern gaze.


    "I will eat." Stella replied meekly as she picked up her fork and knife.


    Scott chuckled and shook his head as he looked at the couple before him.


    ---------------


    "What is he doing here?" Taylor roared as he threw a glass of wine, which he was holding in his hand a while earlier, on the floor.


    The glass broke into small pieces, the shards scattering on the marble floor.


    "He wasn''t supposed to be here. You know his presence here will only be a hurdle in my plans." He yelled at his subordinate, who stood quietly before him with his head bowed and hands resting at his back.


    "He treats her like his own damn little sister. He wouldn''t let anything come in between her and her happiness." Taylor''s dark eyes bore into the pictures which were scattered on the floor.


    A ginger head man could be seen smiling in them, his blue eyes glistening under the sunlight.


    He picked up one and tore it into two halves before throwing them into the fireplace of his study.


    He watched as the flames engulfed the two halves of the picture, turning it into ash. A devilish smirk crept up on his face as he spoke up.


    "Get rid of him."

 Chapter 130 - Tear Stained

    Saturday night,


    "Did you talk to Scott?" Adam asked Stella, running his fingers through the silky locks of her hair.


    Stella was lying over his bare chest with her arms wrapped around his toned waist. Adam was hugging her with one of his arms while the other one was busy playing with her hair. Oh! How much he loved to do that!


    "I did talk to him but he turned down the offer once again." Stella replied, pursing her lips in the end.


    "Did he tell you why?" Adam chuckled softly. Though he could not see her face, but he could tell that she was pursing her lips just from the tone of her voice.


    "He don''t want to be a trouble for us." Stella replied, shrugging her shoulders.


    "Well, it''s his choice if he doesn''t want to stay here with us but rather at some hotel." She continued to which Adam nodded as he started to rub her back.


    Soon Stella drifted to sleep, followed by Adam.


    -----------------


    Scott entered the club of his hotel. He was getting bored and didn''t have anything else to do. He only came to Berlin for his meeting with Adam. He would have left by now but he decided to extend his stay for a week.


    As soon as he entered the bar, he caught the attention of every girl in there. Under their observing gazes, he quietly made his way to the bar and sat down on one of the bar stools.


    "A martini, please." He ordered for his drink and began to look around his surroundings.


    "Not bad." He muttered under his breath after taking in his surroundings.


    He turned his head back to face the counter as the bartender served his drink.


    "Enjoy, Sir." The bartender spoke up before turning his attention to others.


    Scott picked up his glass and took a sip leisurely when his eyes accidentally fell on the person sitting next to him.


    A girl who was dressed in a black body hugging dress, was busy chugging down her vodka directly from the bottle. Her smokey eye makeup was smudged because of the tears that were running down her fair cheeks non stop.


    Her straight dark brown hair was tied up in a high pony, cascading over her bare back. The golden lowlights in them, glowed under the dim lights of the bar. Her upper body was leaning over the counter as sher took big gulps from the bottle.


    "Are you okay Miss?" Scott couldn''t help but ask her.


    She turned to her left and stared at the man who had interrupted her. Her fiery red lips curled up in a smirk as she leaned her face close to his ear.


    "Well, don''t you look good?" She murmured seductively next to his ear.


    "Are you alright?" He asked her again, ignoring her remark.


    "How much for a night?" Instead of answering him, she replied with a question of her own.


    "Excuse me?" Scott was taken aback by her query. "I think you are making a mistake here."


    "Don''t worry about the money, just name your price." She continued. "The amount doesn''t matter to me as long as you can help me forget about that bast*** for one night." She looked at him with her tearful eyes.


    For some unknown reason, Scott felt his heartache looking at her test stained face. He could tell that she wasn''t someone to ask random men like this. Someone must have hurt her.


    "Where do you live?" Scott asked her.


    "So, is it a yes?" The girl looked at him with hopeful expression.


    "Where do you live?" Scott repeated his question.


    "I will tell you, you can be the driver." She replied with a smirk.


    "You didn''t bring a driver with you?" He asked her, his face turning black.


    "I never bring a driver with me." She replied.


    "And how did you think you will go back? Drive yourself in this condition." He scoffed.


    "I could have gotten a room booked for myself." She just shrugged in response.


    "Let''s go." Scott gulped down the rest of his martini in one go as he stood up.


    "Bill it to the penthouse upstairs." He said to the bartender and turned around to leave.


    The girl in black jumped from her bar stool and lost her balance. She would have ended on the floor if it wasn''t for Scott''s fast reflexes. He placed an arm around her shoulders to support her, hoisting her body up, while the other one picked up her clutch.


    He guided her all the way to the parking lot where she pointed towards a maroon Audi R8 and then toward her clutch.


    After finding the key, he unlocked the car and helped he settle in before putting her seat belt on. After making sure she was secured in comfortably, he made his way to the driving side.


    He turned on the ignition after settling in and drove in the direction she asked him to.

 Chapter 131 - Responsibility

    Sunlight entered the room, filtering through the layers of net curtains, brightening up the vast space with a golden hue.


    A girl laid down in the bed, covered with the duvet up to her neck. Her eyelashes fluttered like the wings of a butterfly as the morning rays landed on her face.


    A yawn escaped her rosy lips as she stretched her hands in the air. She opened her eyes slowly but shut them again, repeating the process a couple of times, letting them get used to the bright light.


    She tried to sit up straight as she registered her surroundings. As soon as she sat up, she groaned while holding her head in between her hands as she felt it throbbing with pain.


    Last night''s events flashed through her mind. The date, the breakup and the bar. She remembered that last night she ended up at a bar somehow. But her mind was blank after that. She couldn''t recall what had happened after that. All she remembered was her tears and a bottle of vodka in her hands.


    "How did I end up at my apartment?" She muttered under her breath, pulling out her hair in frustration. The pain accompanied with the questions she had, was causing her to lose her calm.


    "Good morning, sleeping beauty." A male voice interrupted her thoughts. She turned her head towards the source with a jerk which intensified her headache.


    "Based on how much you drunk you were last night, this was bound to happen." Scott added lazily seeing her grab her head with her hands.


    "Who are you? And what are you doing at my apartment?" The girl asked glaring at him.


    "Ouch! You hurt me Miss¡­.." He trailed off and took out a driver''s license from his trousers'' pocket.


    "Miss Katherine Collins." He continued, looking at the name of the cardholder as he leaned against the door frame.


    "Give me my license back." She gritted her teeth.


    "You can have it. But you have to take responsibility for your actions." Scott added as he leisurely walked towards her.


    "What are you talking about?" Katherine asked him with confusion written in her eyes.


    "You can forget what happened last night Miss Collins, but I can not." Scott was now standing before the bed.


    He had just come out after taking a shower and thought to check on her before ordering for their breakfast, but he found her wide awake.


    He liked how her messy hair framed her face. Morning suits on her.


    ''May be I could get used to it.'' He frowned at the thought. ''I wonder where did that come from?''


    "You took advantage of me last night, now you have to take responsibility as well." He ran his fingers through his damp hair.


    "What nonsense are you spouting?" Katherine frowned as she tried to think about what had happened after she went to the bar. She was already a bit tipsy when she had reached there and the vodka didn''t do her any more good. Her mind was blank no matter how hard she tried to think.


    "Nonsense? You asked me to name my price for a night Miss Collins, no matter how high." He replied with a smirk. "But after last night, I have changed my mind. I don''t need money, not for now. I want you as a compensation."


    "Excuse me?" Katherine''s eyes widened in shock as she looked at his lazy expression.


    "You cannot be excused this easily." He made his way around the bed and sat down next to her. "I will please you just like I did last night. All you have to do is take care of me." He leaned close to her face.


    "N-No! Nothing happened last night. You are lying." She tried to retort.


    "Oh really? Then how are you in a night dress. You weren''t wearing that in the bar, were you?" He smiled and said.


    Katherine looked down and her face turned pale when she saw herself wearing a red negligee. She looked back at him and narrowed her eyes. If only looks could kill, Scott would have been lying dead on the floor.


    Scott chuckled looking at the feisty one before him. ''Interesting. Looks like I need to extend my stay here.''


    "How much?"


    His thoughts were interrupted.


    "What do you mean?" He decided to play dumb.


    "How much money do you want to keep your mouth shut and leave? Just name your price." She explained.


    "I told you already. It''s not the money that I want. I want you. I will keep you satisfied. All you have to do is take care of my basic daily needs." Scott shrugged. Of course he knew that money wasn''t a problem for her. He would have to live under a rock to not know who Katerine Collins was. He had a few of her latest men''s wear in his closet.


    "You¡­." Katherine pointed her finger at him. She wanted to curse him so badly. And she would have if it wasn''t for what he did next.


    Scott looked at the finger which she was pointing at him, his lips curling up in a devilish smirk as he moved his lips closer it before taking it in between them, biting it in the process.


    Katherine''s eyes widened in shock as she yelped and threw a slap towards his face. But her palm never made contact with his skin. He held her wrist firmly but not too tightly.


    He looked at her as his gaze darkened. Never in his life had a girl raised her voice before him, let alone her hand. And this feisty one here actually tried to hit him.


    He gave her a mischievous look before pushing her on the bed with one swift movement, his hands holding hers in place on either side of her face.


    He hovered over her, his ocean blue eyes gazing into her dark brown ones. He felt something burning his insides.


    "You have to take responsibility, whether you like it or not." He spoke up in a husky voice before locking his lips over hers.

 Chapter 132 - Kitty Kat

    "You have to take responsibility, whether you like it or not." He spoke up in a husky voice before locking his lips over hers.


    Katherine tried her best to push him away but the man didn''t even bulge, her strength was no match for his.


    She pursed her lips tightly, not letting him have his way, but Scott had other plans in mind.


    He bit her lip, making her yelp. He took the opportunity and forced his ruthless tongue inside her mouth, exploring every nook and cranny of her mouth.


    He finally let go of her lips after a while to allow her to breathe.


    "Y-y-you!" Katherine exclaimed.


    "I-I-I! What?" Scott smirked.


    "You impudent brute." She retorted, making his smile brighter.


    "That, I am." Scott shamelessly accepted her remark. "Go and freshen up babes, the breakfast will be here any minute." He continued, giving a peck on her pursed lips.


    Katherine pushed him off of herself and walked towards the bathroom. She slammed the door as soon as she entered it, making him chuckle.


    "Interesting." He commented at her behavior. His gaze then moved to his member which had began to turn hard just after a short kiss.


    "You need to wait for my dear friend, she''s a hard one." He sighed and got up. He glanced towards the bathroom door before heading out of the room.


    Scott was busy placing plates on the kitchen counter when he saw Katherine coming towards the kitchen.


    "Right on time babes." He commented, his eyes moving up and down her figure.


    She was wearing a baby pink camisole paired with white dolphin shorts. Her long hair was tied up in a messy bun. They weren''t straight anymore but rather has loose curls in them. The tips were still wet, which made him frown.


    "You didn''t dry your hair properly." He commented, placing the dishes on the counter.


    Katherine shrugged. "I am hungry."


    "Eat first then." Scott made his way around the counter and pulled out a stool for her.


    Katherine gave her a side glance before sitting on it.


    "I was thinking about what you said." She spoke up, her voice disrupting the silence.


    Scott hummed in response, but didn''t look up from his plate.


    "If what you said is the truth, then I will take responsibility for my actions." She added, poking the Spanish omelette with her fork.


    Scott''s eyes lit up as he turned his head to look at her.


    His mind drifted back to last night.


    ---------------


    After parking the car in the underground parking of the building, he stepped out of the car and made his way towards the other side. He opened the door and helped her in getting out. No matter how much he tried to make her stand up straight, she kept missing her footing.


    He finally gave up after a minute and carried her himself to the elevator and up to her apartment which was located on the top floor.


    She kept mumbling some incoherent words, but he was able to understand a few of them since her head was resting on his shoulder.


    The poor girl was talking about her breakup, apologising and asking the guy to not leave her in her half asleep state as tears streamed down her face.


    For some unknown reason, his heart began to ache looking at her broken state. He felt a sudden urge to protect her rise within him. He wanted to make her forget about that pathetic man.


    As he entered her apartment after scanning her palm and keying in the password which she had told him earlier in the car. He was thanking the heaven now for his good memory.


    He eyed in the surroundings as he walked towards the master bedroom. He noticed that there were no surveillance cameras within the apartment.


    ''No cameras mean no evidence of what might have it have not happened in the apartment.'' He thought inwardly as a devilish smirk appeared on his face.


    He placed her down on the bed and saw that she was still mumbling, more accurately, begging that excuse of a man to not leave her.


    He shook his head sideways and made his way to the bathroom, only to come out a minute later with a wet towel in his hands.


    He removed her clothes, not looking directly at her body. He wiped her body and covered it with a duvet before making his way back to the bathroom.


    He came out a minute later, this time holding on to a make-up removing solution and some cotton pads in his hands.


    He sat next to her and cleaned her smudged makeup.


    After he was done wiping off her makeup, he felt his chest tighten looking at the beauty before him.


    He got up and entered her walk-in closet. He picked up a random negligee and made his way out.


    After helping her get it on, he was about to leave the room when he felt a tug at his sleeves.


    "Don''t go." He heard her incoherent pleas which made him throw all of his rationality out of the window.


    He had slept with a number of girls, but it was with their consent. And by sleeping with them, he meant sex. He had never shared a bed with a girl just to sleep alone. He had one important rule in his life, and that was never to share a bed with a girl he didn''t want to have sex with. The only exception was his future wife of course. He hadn''t broken the rule for even once, and didn''t plan to do so.


    He looked at her intently. The way her half opened eyes were asking him not to leave and the way her lips quivered as she begged him to stay, it dug through his strong will power.


    "Well, I can make an exception for you, for once." He muttered to himself before joining her.


    Little did he know that it would become a habit of his, without which his nights would be empty and sleepless.


    --------------


    "Where are you lost?" Katherine flicked her fingers before his face, bringing him back to the present.


    "Nothing. I was just thinking about what you said." He replied, taking a bite of his toast.


    "I will bear the responsibility and take care of your daily necessities. But you have to give me your word that it will stay between us. Not a single soul could know about this arrangement." She added to which he nodded as his lips broke into a grin.


    "If you don''t have a place to stay, you can stay here and use the guest room. But you won''t interfere in my life just like I won''t in yours. And you won''t get intimate with me."


    Her last words made him frown, he wanted to pin her down right there on the kitchen counter but controlled his temper. He himself didn''t know why he was getting so worked up.


    He managed to turn his frown upside down and gave him a blooming smile. "Alright, Kitty Kat."


    Kathrine ignored the nickname he had just given her and hummed before digging in her plate.

 Chapter 133 - Shameless Idiot

    "Good morning, my little sunshine." Adam whispered in her ear as soon as Stella opened her eyes.


    She looked lazily at him, her lips blooming into a bright smile.


    "Good morning to you too handsome." She muttered as a yawan threatened to escape her lips.


    "You want to sleep for a bit longer?" Adam asked her as he ran his fingers through her hair.


    Stella shook her head sideways. "It''s already close to twelve, I don''t want to sleep more."


    "But it''s Sunday sweetheart, and you seem tired." Adam tried to coax her. He had woken up an hour earlier but didn''t leave the bed. It''s not like he had a choice anyway. Stella was resting her head on his bare shoulder. She had an arm and a leg, wrapped around his body.


    "And who''s fault is that?" Stella glared at him.


    Thinking about their activities from last night, Adam''s lips broke into a devilish smirk.


    "And who kept asking for more?" Adam retorted back, making her face turn a deep shade of pink.


    "Shut up!" Stella muttered under her breath as she buried her face in his chest. "It''s not my fault that you are having a bad influence over me."


    "Let me show you how bad of an influence I can be." Adam added as he turned their bodies, pinning her into the mattress.


    "Adam!" Stella yelped in surprise as his lips latched onto her neck.


    "Yes, sweetheart?" He replied in between his kisses.


    "Not now." Stella added as she tried to push him back.


    Adam hummed but didn''t stop. His fingers worked their magic and opened the buttons of the shirt she was wearing.


    Even though she had many night dresses and PJs, she had developed a habit of wearing Adam''s button-down shirts as her night suits.


    His lips traced down from her throat to her cleavage, kissing the love bites he had left on her smooth skin last night.


    He finally stopped after kissing her navel.


    Stella heaved out a sigh of relief, thinking that he had listened to her. But she was so, so wrong.


    Adam moved his lips to her ear and kissed her earlobe.


    "Enjoy." He whispered softly next to her ear as his hand glided down to the flower in between her legs.


    His thumb began to play with her clit as he slid a finger inside her.


    Stella gasped for air as he increased the pace of his movements, sending pleasurable tingles down her spine.


    His one finger turned to two, moving in and out of her.


    Stella closed her eyes, throwing her head back in pleasure as she moaned in pure delight.


    Adam felt her insides tightening around his fingers, he could tell that she was close to finding her release, but he wasn''t going to let her have it this easily. He slowed down his movements and was rewarded with a frustrated groan.


    Adam chuckled at her reaction and continued moving his fingers in and out of her at a slower pace.


    "Adam!" Stella threw a deadly glare at him, she was still breathing heavily.


    "Yes, sweetheart?" Adam gave her a bright smile in return.


    "Do you want to sleep in the room across the corridor for a week?" Stella gritted her teeth.


    Adam widened his eyes in shock at her threat.


    "You know how to make me surrender baby girl." He chuckled and increased his pace.


    His fingers moved in and out of her as his thumb continued moving her clit in a circular motion.


    Her insides continued to tighten around his fingers as she was a few thrusts away from finding her release.


    "Let it go sweetheart." He whispered next to her ear as he pressed the heel of his palm against the rosy bud of her womanhood.


    His words were like her undoing as she released her juices of his fingers. He moved them out and licked them clean as usual.


    "You taste so divine babygirl." He said, placing a lingering kiss on her forehead.


    Stella, who was a breathing mess, smacked his bare chest. ''Shameless idiot.''


    A deep laughter resonated through the quietness of the bedroom. "Only for you." He added as if reading what  was on her mind.


    "Now rest for a while, I will go and take a shower." He spoke up as he pulled up the duvet upto her chin. He got out of the bed and made his way to the bathroom, not forgetting to peck her lips before going.


    Stella looked at his departing figure and felt her eyelids getting heavier once again.


    She yawned and stretched out her hands in the air. Pulling his pillow to herself, she hugged it and closed her eyes. Soon she drifted off to her dreamland as his fragrance wafted into her nose.


    ---------------


    "You did it on purpose, didn''t you?" Stella accused him as she entered his study.


    "I don''t know what you are talking about love." Adam gave her a toothy grin.


    "Don''t play so innocent, it doesn''t suit you." Stella scoffed as she made her way towards his study table.


    "It doesn''t suit you either." Adam retorted, earning a glare from her.


    He raised his hands up in the air in defeat. "You needed some more rest, and that was the only way I knew how to make you do it." He pouted.


    Stella shook her head sideways as he looked at the man before her.


    "But it did make you rest for two more hours." Adam added, giving her a bright smile.


    "Whatever." Stella rolled her eyes back at him as she sat on his lap.


    "I will ask Uncle Rob to bring your breakfast here." Adam said kissing her shoulder as he pressed a button which was on the inner surface of his desk.


    Stella nodded and learned back against his sturdy chest.


    "What are you working on?" She asked him as her eyes landed on the laptop before her.


    "The project with Williamson''s Tech." He replied as he pulled the laptop closer to her.


    "I still have a bad feeling about this." Stella added with a frown.


    "You don''t have to worry about it. I am personally looking over this one and I have got it all under control." Adam replied, kissing the side of her head.


    Stella nodded and was about to say something but was interrupted by a knock at the door.


    The old butler entered with a tray in his hands. He greeted the couple before placing it down on the table before the couch.


    "Eat first, sweetheart. We will talk later." Adam added, placing a finger over her lips. Stella could only agree with him as she was really famished.

 Chapter 134 - It Smells Of You

    "What happened to Lilian? Is she okay? Wasn''t she supposed to train me on weekends?" Stella asked. She was sitting on the couch of his study, her feet were placed on the table before her as she was busy reading a novel.


    It was already evening, but Adam was still busy with his work. Stella was feeling bad about it. It was Sunday and the poor guy was working. If she knew that spending a couple of days in Hawaii will end up increasing his workload when they return, she would have dragged him back right after landing.


    "No, she won''t. I changed my mind." Adam replied as he picked up his mug and took a small sip of his coffee. He looked at her for a second before shifting his eyes back to the laptop


    "So I won''t get any training. It means no early morning exercises." A smile bloomed on Stella''s face. Going to the gym every morning was too tiresome for her. She only got an off today, that too because it was already noon when she woke up.


    Adam could feel the happiness in her voice. "When did I say that?" He replied without looking up from his laptop.


    "You just said that she won''t be training me and that you changed your mind." She replied, pursing her lips in a pout.


    "I said she won''t be training you. I didn''t say you won''t be getting any training. She''s going to be busy in the coming days. So, I decided to find a new trainer for you. He will be coming from tomorrow and you will be getting trained daily, not just on weekends." He added with a smirk.


    "That''s not fair." Stella muttered under her breath as she picked up her mug from the table.


    "Sweetheart! You need to be become strong. You need to learn how to protect yourself. Do you want me to worry about your safety for the rest of our lives?" He looked up from his laptop and saw her sulking like a child as she took small sips of her tea.


    Stella pouted but still shook her head in a no. Of course she wouldn''t want him to worry about her. He already had too much on his plate, and she understood that.


    Adam looked at her intently and heaved out a long tired sigh. He could allot some bodyguards to her for protecting her, but that would be like putting a free bird in a golden cage with all the monitoring. And he wouldn''t want his little elf to be caged even if it''s encrusted with rubies and diamonds.


    ''I am sorry love, but you won''t get a choice in this matter. I will make it up to you.'' He thought to himself before turning his attention back to his laptop.


    ---------------


    "Sweetheart?" Adam called Stella who was busy with cutting through the steak before her.


    Stella hummed and looked up at him.


    "I need to go somewhere after the dinner. Blake called me saying it''s important." He added as his hand reached up to her face.


    "I may return late. You won''t mind that, will you love?" He asked her caressing her cheek.


    "He has Lillian now, why is he asking my man out?" Stella frowned as she stabbed her steak with her fork.


    Adam left out a hearty chuckle which made Stella''s heart miss a beat.


    "Don''t ever laugh like that before other girls. I don''t want any other girl''s heart skip a beat like mine does." Stella narrowed her eyes at him.


    "You don''t have to worry about that baby girl. It''s only around you that I smile and laugh like that." Adam replied as he patted the tip of her head.


    "You smile and laugh with Blake." Stella raised an eyebrow at him.


    "He''s my childhood best friend love." Adam gave her a cheeky smile. "And you smile and laugh with Scott. At least Blake is of the same gender as me." He added with a smirk.


    Stella pursed her lips in a pout before replying back to him. "Blake can be an exception."


    "Scott can be an exception as well." Adam kissed the side of her head.


    "And you can stay out late. Just don''t drink too much and don''t drive back yourself even if you have a single glass of alcohol. Ask Edward to drop you off." Stella gave him a warning glare. "And stay away from girls."


    "You don''t have to worry about that." Adam replied as he tucked some loose strands of hair behind her ear. He sometimes wondered how they manage to escape from her bun every time even though they were long.


    "Finish your steak now." Adam added.


    "Who was the one to interrupt me in the first place?" Stella shot him an accusing look before turning his attention back to the steak which was calling her.


    ''The chefs here are so good. I wish I could just kiss their hands.'' She thought inwardly, fully aware of the fact that if she said it out loud, the man sitting next to her may drown in vinegar.


    -------------


    "Sleep now." Adam snatched away the novel from her hand. "Why are you always reading something?"


    "I don''t have any office work to do and I get bored easily." She replied to him.


    "You don''t have any office work ''left'' to do because you finish it way ahead of time." Adam raised an eyebrow at her.


    "As if you don''t do the same." Stella replied, sticking her tongue out.


    "I am the President of the Corp. I am supposed to be doing that." Adam retorted back, shaking his head sideways.


    "I am the President''s assistant. I am supposed to be doing that as well." She cheekily smiled at him.


    "Yeah, yeah! You are the President''s girl, you are allowed to do whatever you''d like to." He patted her head before pulling up the duvet upto her chin.


    "What''s with you sleeping with my pillow when I am out?" He asked her as his gaze landed on his pillow which was being crushed in a tight hug.


    "It smells of you." Her reply melted his heart.


    "Sleep now, my little elf." He said as he kissed her forehead.


    Stella hummed and closed her eyes. She had somehow gotten used to the nickname.

 Chapter 135 - The Abandoned Mansion

    A black Audi SUV drove away from the mansion, not towards the city but in the opposite direction.


    Under the gloomy sky, the only thing which differentiated the car from its surroundings was it''s headlights as it quietly drove to its destination.


    Adam had the window of his side rolled down, propping an arm on it which supported his face.


    He sped through the quiet road and finally reached his destination after an hour. He pulled the car in the driveway of an abandoned mansion which looked no less than a haunted house.


    The mansion was shrouded with darkness as not a single light was turned on. Maybe there wasn''t any there.


    Adam took out his phone from the pocket of his dress pants and saw Blake''s text. He read through it before stepping out of the car. He had left the headlights of the car on.


    After lulling Stella to sleep, he had changed into a black formal suit which fitted his perfectly toned body. Even the shirt he was wearing under the coat was black. He blended with the surroundings with his attire. One could easily mistook him as a moving shadow if it wasn''t for the headlights illuminating the dark place a bit.


    Instead of making his way to the front porch, Adam headed towards the backyard of the place. Walking over the dead grass, he finally found the back door of the mansion.


    He looked at the small glass window of the door, which looked like an ordinary piece of tempered glass but it wasn''t. With dust covering everything in the place, it was the only thing which didn''t have a single speck of dust on it.


    He placed his right palm on it and a blue light illuminated the glass. After the light has turned green Adam moved his head down to look through it. The green light scanned his irises and then turned to a pale white light.


    Letters in red appeared on the screen.


    ''WELCOME BACK BOSS!"


    The door unlocked with a click sound and Adam stepped inside.


    The inside of the mansion was completely opposite from what it looked like from the outside.


    A crystal chandelier hung in the center of the vast room, which lit up the entire place with a golden white hue.


    As Adam''s firmed steps resonated in the hall, people who were present there stopped whatever they were doing.


    They looked at the man clad in black with their eyes wide open and their jaws hanging low. No one could believe what they were seeing with their own eyes.


    One had to live under a rock to not know who Adam Levinson was and how he looked like. But that wasn''t what shocked them, it was the reason that he had returned, that a Levinson had returned to take the reins back.


    "How long have I waited to see this day?" Blake''s voice resonated in the quiet hall.


    "Shut up." Adam narrowed his eyes at him.


    "Yes, Boss." Blake replied with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I will introduce you to everyone later on, let''s move to your room for now." He continued.


    Adam nodded and followed him across the hall. Everyone bowed their heads as low as their bodies allowed them to. Adam acknowledged them with a nod of his head and followed Blake to the elevator which was at the other end of the hall.


    The duo entered the elevator and Blake typed four on the panel before he pressed his thumb over the scanner and looked at the eye scanner which scanned his irises. The elevators door shut and it started to move up.


    The mansion had four floors but there were actually ten floors in total. Four of them were above the ground while the remaining six were situated below the ground floor. Not everyone had access to every floor, and that is why they had to scan their thumbs and eyes before the elevator''s doors would actually close and it would start moving.


    Along with Blake and Lillian, only a few of their subordinates were granted access to the top floor where Blake''s room was.


    He guided Adam to a room besides his own.


    "This was your Dad''s. Now, it''s yours." Blake explained it to him.


    "I remember this room." Adam had a fond smile on his face as he walked in.


    "You can redecorate it the way you want." Blake added.


    "No, I want to keep it the way it is at the moment. Just install some modern technologies in it. I remember he hated those." Adam replied as he made his way across the old oakwood table. "May be a new tablet will be fine." He chuckled as his fingers traced the engravings on it.


    "As you say, Boss." Blake replied as he took a seat on the couch.


    "Don''t call me Boss when it''s just us." Adam reprimanded him. He knew that Blake was doing it deliberately.


    "You got it man." Blake laughed. "It''s good to have you back here. I missed you."


    "You hate the place just as much as my Dad did. Don''t bother lying to me. I know you too well." Adam punched him on his shoulder, not bothering to withhold his strength.


    "You are still stronger than me, just like before." Blake groaned holding his shoulder.


    "Well, I should thank Uncle for it. He was the one who used to sneak me into this place and train me." Adam added with a hearty chuckle.


    "Yeah! Dad favoured you more, he always did that." Blake scoffed. "Even though Uncle Paul was against it, but he continued doing it without bringing it to his attention."


    "Are you kidding me? He knew it! Dad always knew about me spending my weekends here, he just decided to turn a blind eye to it." Adam shook his head.


    "May be he realized that you needed the exposure since the same blood runs in your veins." Blake added to which Adam shook his head.


    "No. He wanted to give me a choice. He wanted me to choose which path I wanted to go on my own. He knew all along about your Dad sneaking me in and training me like an assassin, but he decided to ignore it after reprimanding me a couple of times." Adam spoke up as his thoughts drifted to the past.

 Chapter 136 - The Brigade Of Sin

    Adam''s family wasn''t as simple as it seemed to the outside world. The Levinsons were one of the aristocratic families of Germany. They didn''t just have theirs roots embedded in the business world, but deep in the underworld as well.


    They held the throne of the most feared criminal organization of Europe, The Brigade of Sin. The throne was passed down to the first born of the main family, whether it was a boy or a girl. Generation after generation, it continued to be passed down before it was handed over to Adam''s father.


    The organization dealt in arms and ammunitions mainly. A major share of which were bought by the government. And like that, the organization had the government''s approval and protection within the main countries of Europe. They carried out their work without any disruption from other external factors. Other organizations weren''t strong enough to interfere in their business, so they found it better to stay out of their path.


    Other than arms and ammunitions, they also dealt in a number of latest technologies. Not only did they deal with it, but were also involved in the advancement of existing ones. Most of their technological advancements weren''t for sale, but for their use only.


    Beside that, one-third of the diamonds which were in the European market, were from the organization''s mines, more specifically, they belonged to the Levinson''s legally.


    In short, it wasn''t a simple organization with only assassins or mercenaries and had their roots spread far and wide.


    When Adam''s father, Paul Levinson took over the throne, he made some changes to the basic rules and regulations. Adam''s grandfather was against those changes but he didn''t have the right to stop his son anymore, as he held the reins in hands then.


    Blake''s father was Paul''s right hand man, for it has been like that for decades. The first born son from the Collins was to serve as the right hand man of a Levinson. Moreover, they were close childhood friends just like Adam and Blake.


    When Adam''s father fell in love with Adam''s mother, Carolyn, he stepped down from the throne because he didn''t want to endanger her life. For someone like him, it was common for enemies to get a hold of the person they held most dear to themselves, and he didn''t want that happening.


    Since he was an only son, Blake''s father had to step in to look over the organization until Paul''s first born become of age.


    When Adam was born, he used to sneak him out of his home and bring him to the base every weekend. Paul was against it at first, but he gave up later on. He might have realized that Adam needed the exposure in case he would ever return to that life in the future. So, he let his friend taught Adam the same fighting skills which he had grown up learning.


    Adam used to spend every weekend at the so called abandoned mansion which was their main base. He only stopped doing it when his father died and he had to take over the business empire.


    He hadn''t stepped in here after he took over the business, not until now.


    --------------


    "I wish dad was here to see this day." Adam spoke up.


    "He might have beaten you black and blue." Blake joked, trying to turn the atmosphere light.


    "He definitely would have." Adam replied with a faint smile resting on his lips. "He left this life to protect the love of his life. I am taking up the title of the King of the Underworld to protect mine. Life sure plays with you sometimes."


    "You will always have me dude." Blake added, patting his shoulder.


    "I know that." Adam nodded. "How''s Lilly doing by the way?"


    "She''s doing better. She''ll be here in a while. She was training some new recruits downstairs." Blake replied.


    "Does she remember anything about her past life?" Adam asked him as he brows furrowed.


    "She still doesn''t recall a single thing from her life. And she has refused to go on anymore therapy sessions since it isn''t helping her." Blake rolled his eyes back. "She calls them a waste of her precious time."


    "Sounds like her." Adam chuckled.


    "What sounds like who?" A girly voice interrupted the duo.


    "Nothing, we were just talking about Stella." Blake immediately replied, throwing a look towards Adam.


    "He was talking about how you have put down your foot about your therapy sessions." Adam didn''t pay any attention to Blake and spoke up.


    "How could you sell me this easily man?" Blake began to whine.


    "Who told you to involve my girl in your lie. You could have said anything and I would have helped you with it. But you decide to bring my girl into conversation when she''s not even here, this is what you get in return." Adam shrugged and turned his attention back to Lillian.


    "Why did you say no to the therapies?" He asked her, giving her a stern look.


    "They don''t help me at all anyways. Moreover, my head hurts like hell after every session." She replied taking a seat across them.


    "I like my life here, Big Boss. I don''t want to remember my past anymore. I am happy with Blake." She pouted like a child.


    "As long as you are happy." Adam heaved out a sigh.


    "Why did you ask Lillian not to train Stella anymore?" Blake interrupted them. "You don''t want her to be trained anymore."


    "I do. I just have someone else in mind to fill in the roll." Adam replied with a fond smile.


    "You are evil." Lillian commented as if understanding his thoughts.


    "What''s evil in that? She gets to train daily that way. And there''s no guarantee that you will be free on every weekend either." Adam raised an eyebrow at her.


    "Does she know?" Lillian asked him.


    "She doesn''t for now. But she will, tomorrow morning." Adam replied as his lips crept up in a sinister smile.


    "What are you guys talking about?" Blake looked at the two in confusion.


    "Nothing, slowpoke." Lillian replied to him, making Adam laugh.

 Chapter 137 - Half Hourly

    "I will visit the base every weekend from onwards. Make the required changes to my room before Saturday. And I want the account logs of the diamond mines on my desk by next weekend, along with the person who''s looking after them." Adam spoke up as he got into his car.


    "You got it man." Blake replied as he shut the car door close.


    "Are you planning on telling Stella about this organization thing?" It was Lillian who spoke up.


    "No. I don''t want to hide things from her, but I don''t want to expose her to this life either, not unless it''s necessary." Adam heaved out a tired sigh. He hated hiding things from her, but he couldn''t tell about this part of his life even though he wanted to do it badly.


    "You are right, there''s no need to expose her to danger." Blake added.


    "She already is exposed to danger. Are you forgetting the fact that she is Adam''s girlfriend?" Lillian said, smacking the back of Blake''s head.


    "You can take your time, but you have to tell her one day. The sooner, the better." She turned her attention towards Adam.


    Adam nodded his head in agreement. "I will tell her when the time is right."


    "You better do, because if you don''t, I definitely will." Lillian said, throwing a glare at him.


    Adam bid his good-byes to the couple and drove away from the abandoned mansion, heading in the direction of his home. All he wanted to do at the moment was to lie next to Stella and hold her in his arms.


    -------------


    "What did you call me when were upstairs?" Blake yanked Lillian''s arm towards himself, making her body collide with his own.


    Lillian frowned as she looked back into his dark brown orbs. "What did I call you?" She spoke up after thinking for a while. She couldn''t recall what exactly he was referring to as she had developed a habit of calling him names after finally saying yes to his proposal.


    "You called me a slowpoke." He flicked her forehead, making her pout.


    "So? You are one." She replied as she rubbed her forehead.


    "That''s not what you say when I am actually poking you." His lips curled up in a lop-sided grin as his eyes lit up with a mischievous glint.


    "How do you make every single word which comes out of my mouth about sex?" Lillian glared at him.


    "I can''t say about other words, but let''s just focus on poking for now." He said as he picked her up in his arms.


    Lillian instinctively put her arms around his neck and rested her head on his shoulder.


    "You won''t get to do any poking today." Lillian retorted back, making him chuckle.


    Both of them knew that it wasn''t going to happen for as long as they were alone in a room, they can not keep their hands to themselves.


    Blake took her inside and headed towards the elevator.


    ----------------


    "Did you call for me?" Stella entered his office and walked towards his desk.


    "Yes. Where were you? Your cell phone is switched off and you weren''t picking up your office phone as well." Adam replied, looking up from his laptop.


    "I was just chatting with some colleagues. And my cellphone is dead and it''s not charging. I don''t know if something''s wrong with it''s the jack or the charger." Stella replied as she stopped next to him.


    Adam turned his chair around and pulled her on his lap.


    "You need to stop doing this." Stella added as he pecked her lips.


    "There''s no one else besides us sweetheart. We can do as we please." Adam replied to her with a wink.


    Stella shook her head at his antics. He would say or do anything as long as he gets to spend some time with her.


    "Moreover, I needed my hourly dose of you." He murmured against her lips before capturing them in a passionate kiss.


    "More like half hourly." Stella spoke up in between her breaths as soon as he let go of her lips.


    "You do know that I can''t get enough of you." Adam added, stroking her back.


    ''Just like I can''t get enough of you.'' Stella thought to herself but didn''t voice it out.


    "Well, some of the staff members are going out for drinks and they asked me out." Stella decided to finally bring up the main point she wanted to talk to him about.


    "And you couldn''t say no because they insisted so much that you had to agree." Adam interrupted her and finished her words as if reading her thoughts.


    Stella meekly nodded her head in a yes.


    "Isn''t it too late to ask me about it since you have already said yes to them?" Adam raised an eyebrow at her.


    "I would turn them down if you say so." Stella immediately replied.


    "You don''t have to. Since my little elf has given her word to them, she won''t take it back. Just send me the details of the location, I will pick you up on my way back home." Adam spoke up as he ran his fingers through her hair.


    "And don''t drink too much." He continued, giving her a warning glare.


    "I won''t drink too much, I give you my word." Stella added as she bobbed her head up and down.


    "Alright then, off you go now." Adam said, kissing the side of her head.


    "I will miss you." Stella placed a feather like kiss on his firm lips before getting up from his lap and heading towards the door.


    "I forgot to tell you that your trainer will join tomorrow. He slept late last night, so couldn''t wake up early." Adam spoke up as his eyes were set on her retreating back.


    "Okay! I will be ready by 6 tomorrow morning." Stella raised her hand up in the air, making and okay sign without turning back. Only if she had, she wouldn''t have missed the devilish smirk gracing Adam''s lips.

 Chapter 138 - Cant Help Falling In Love

    Adam stretched his hands in the air before cracking his knuckles and neck. He had been typing on his laptop for more than two hours now. His fingers and neck had become stiff, his shoulders muscles had become taut as well.


    He could have asked anyone to prepare the draft of this contract, but this one was way more important to him.


    He looked at his wrist watch and his lips broke into soft smile. It was time to pick up his little elf. He was getting used to having her around him all the time, and a couple of hours away from her felt like an eternity.


    He picked up his coat and car keys before heading downstairs.


    After getting in his car, he turned on the GPS and typed in the bar''s location. The GPS showed him the fastest route to his destination It wasn''t that far away from the office which was definitely a good thing for him. It mean that he didn''t have to wait long to see his beloved.


    "You are so much whipped Adam Levinson." He muttered under his breath before driving the car towards the bar.


    Adam pulled up his car before the entrance of a bar which wasn''t too shabby. He picked up his phone and dialed her number.


    "I am outside." He spoke into the phone''s speaker as soon as the call was connected.


    "I will be there in a minute. Let me say goodbye to everyone." Her soft voice came through, reaching the deepest part of his heart.


    "I will be waiting." He added before disconnecting the call.


    After two minutes, he saw her coming out of the bar. As her eyes landed on the car, her lips broke into a sweet smile.


    Adam saw her making her way towards the car. He took off his seatbelt before leaning his body towards the passenger seat. Just as her fingers brushed against the door''s handle, he opened it from inside.


    "I missed you." Her words resonated in the quietness of the car.


    Adam, who was busy putting on her seatbelt, stopped his actions abruptly.


    "What did you say?" He asked her, gazing into her hazel orbs.


    "I missed you." She repeated her words from earlier with a cheeky smile.


    "I missed you too." Adam placed a feather like kiss on her lips before securing her seat belt.


    After putting on his own seat belt, he turned on the ignition and drove away from the bar.


    "How much did you drink?" Adam asked her, his eyes were fixed on the road ahead.


    "I just had two bottles of beer." Stella replied as she connected her phone with the sound system of the car.


    Adam hummed and glanced at her for a mere second before turning his attention back to the road.


    "What do you want to listen to?" She asked him as she scrolled through her playlist.


    "Play whatever you like babygirl, I will listen to it." Adam replied.


    "Alright." He heard her say before the soft music of Elvis Presley''s "Can''t Help Falling in Love" filled the car.


    Adam turned his head to look at her only to find her already looking at him.


    Her hazel eyes were blazing with emotions, burning his soul as he stared back into them.


    ''Wise men say only fools rush in


    But I can''t help falling in love with you


    Shall I stay?


    Would it be a sin


    If I can''t help falling in love with you?''


    Adam couldn''t take it anymore and pulled the car over, stopping it at the side of the interstate.


    He unbuckled both of their seat belts and pulled her over to himself, making her sit on his lap.


    Stella had her legs on either side of his as she faced him. Her face was growing hot as each second ticked by. Even though Adam was only holding her by her waist, her breathing was becoming uneven.


    Adam was only gazing into her eyes, his gray eyes colliding with her hazel ones.


    None of them said anything as they quietly listened to the lyrics of the song playing in the background.


    ''Like a river flows surely to the sea


    Darling so it goes


    Some things are meant to be


    Take my hand, take my whole life too


    For I can''t help falling in love with you''


    The silence between them said much more than what words could convey.


    Adam leaned close to her and hit the repeat button before the song could even end.


    ''Like a river flows surely to the sea


    Darling so it goes


    Some things are meant to be


    Take my hand, take my whole life too


    For I can''t help falling in love with you


    For I can''t help falling in love with you''


    His gaze shifted to her lips, which were slightly parted, inviting him to claim them. He bit her lower lip when he saw her tongue moving over her lower lip, trying to wet the slightly chapped lip.


    He wanted to do so much to her at that moment. He wanted to make her his, claim her body and soul. He wanted to be the only thing which clouded her mind. But he was holding back, and it took all of his self control to do that. He wanted her to take the first step. He wanted to follow her lead this time.


    He could sense the desire building up in her body. He could see her dilated pupils as she looked at his lips. He could feel her muscles becoming stiff under the tips of his fingers even though he barely moved them. He could feel her breaths becoming uneven and heavier, and yet he didn''t close the gap between their lips which were mere inches away.


    "You jerk." He heard Stella curse him before she closed the distance between them, clashing her lips against his as the song began to play from the start.


    ''Wise men say only fools rush in


    But I can''t help falling in love with you


    Shall I stay?


    Would it be a sin


    If I can''t help falling in love with you?''


    Their breaths mingled as the soft kiss turned into a more passionate one.

 Chapter 139 - Her New Trainer

    "I love you baby girl." Adam murmured softly next to her ear.


    "I-I love you... too." Stella replied in between her breaths.


    The couple was lying in bed, their naked bodies entangled under the black satin sheet.


    After a hot make out session with her in the car, Adam drove back to the mansion, driving way over the speed limit just to reach home as soon as possible. He parked the car right before the entrance before carrying her all the way to his bedroom. He couldn''t wait to have her his way, and he eventually did.


    "I know baby girl." Adam kissed her forehead as he drew circles on her bare back.


    Stella hummed and rubbed her face on his chest like lazy kitten. She was too tired to even speak a single word. Sometimes she wondered where did his stamina come from. His one round of sex always ended up being three at least.


    "Are you hungry?" Adam asked her as he kissed the top of her head.


    Stella nodded her head in a yes.


    "I will bring something for you." He added as he shifted her, making her lie on the bed. "Don''t move."


    "As if I have the strength to do so." She gritted her teeth, throwing an accusing look at him.


    Adam chuckled and patted her head before heading towards the bathroom. He came out a minute later with a wet towel in his hand.


    He wiped her body clean with it before going back. Ten minutes later, he came out again, freshly showered and dressed in a pair of black trousers and a dark green full sleeved t-shirt.


    "You smell good." Stella uttered in her half sleepy state earning a warm laughter from him.


    Adam pressed a kiss on the side of her forehead. "Don''t sleep yet, I will bring some food over." He spoke before heading out of the room.


    Five minutes later he came back with a tray in his hand. The faint aroma of food wafted up Stella''s nose, making her sit up with a jerk.


    "Hurry up!" She pouted as she looked at him walking towards her at a slow pace.


    Adam noticed that she was now wearing one of his shirts. ''I should ask Katherine to send me more shirts. This way, they won''t last for longer.'' Of course he didn''t mind her wearing his shirts, but he was more worried that she might get bored seeing the old ones again and again.


    Adam placed the tray on the bedside table before pulling out the last section of it. He had made these bedside tables on custom and the last section of each can be pulled out and turned into table. You can just fold it after using them and put them back.


    He unfolded the section and put it over her legs before placing the tray on it. There were two bowls of chicken corn soup with a couple of garlic bread placed on a plate at the side.


    Stella looked at the food before her, his eyes widening in delight as her lips curled up in a bright smile.


    "How do you know that I like my soup with garlic bread?" Stella asked him as she picked up a piece of bread before dipping it in the soup.


    "I just know." Adam shrugged his shoulders as he picked up his spoon.


    "You are the best." Stella added with a satisfied smile as she drank a mouthful of the hot soup.


    "I know that as well." Adam gave her a proud smirk, making her roll her eyes.


    ----------------


    Stella entered the gym after gearing up in her work out suit.


    She was wearing a neon green sports bra with black edges along with a pair of black workout shorts which hugged her hips.


    She looked at her reflection in the mirror wall and made a mental note to thank Katherine later on.


    She was busy admiring herself when Adam walked in, wearing a pair of dark gray workout trousers and a white sleeves shirt which exposed his toned arms.


    He was carrying two water bottles in his hands. He placed them down on the bench in the room where two small towels were already placed.


    Stella gulped when her gaze landed on the veins which popping out on his arms.


    Though they had done it a couple of times now, but she never was in her right state of mind during or after it to actually observe his body. The last time they were in gym, she was too shy to even look at him.


    "It wasn''t here the last time." She asked him when she finally managed to pull her eyes away from biceps. She was pointing towards a dummy which was installed just recently.


    "You will practice your moves on it." Adam answered her.


    "Okay. So where''s my trainer?" Stella asked him, raising her delicate eyebrows.


    "He is here." Adam replied as seriously as he could, trying to suppress his smile.


    "Where? Why can''t I see him?" Stella looked around, her eyes settling at the door in the end. "Ask him to come inside." She urged him.


    "He''s already inside and standing right before you." Adam replied, giving her a lop-sided grin.


    "Where?" She looked around but didn''t see anyone else there besides them. ''Wait a minute!'' Her eyes widened in shock as she registered Adam''s worst.


    "Standing before me." She murmured under her breath as she looked at him, her eyes popping out of their sockets.


    "You?" She gave him a puzzled look.


    "You are going to train me?" It took her a while to finally find her voice when he didn''t respond to her.


    "Do you even know how to do anything else other than lifting some weight?" She narrowed her eyes at him. ''I wanted Lillian.''


    "You will be shocked to see what else I could do other than lifting some weights sweetheart." Adam replied as a devilish smirk graced her lips.


    "Let''s begin your training Ms. Martin." He continued as he took off his shirt.


    Stella eyed his abs and gulped. ''It''s not going to be easy.''

 Chapter 140 - R&E Group of Companies

    "Ow, ow, owww! It hurts so bad." Stella groaned in pain as she tried to move her legs.


    "We haven''t started the real training yet and your body has already given up." Adam chuckled looking at her pitiful expressions.


    "Your so called basic exercises aren''t so basic at all." Stella replied with a scowl.


    They were sitting on the bench after their workout session.


    "I did those exercises when I was six sweetheart. They are definitely the most basic ones." Adam flicked her forehead, making her yelp. "You don''t look after your body at all, that''s why your body is aching this much."


    "Whatever." Stella jutted her lower lip out as she rubbed her forehead.


    "If you are thinking that acting pitiful will help you in anyway, then you are so wrong baby girl." Adam said, pecking her pouty lips.


    Stella''s expression turned worse as she threw a glare at him.


    "Let''s go, you need to freshen up. And so do I." Adam picked her up in his arms and carried her to the master bedroom.


    He didn''t put her down once he was inside, but carried her all the way to the bathroom.


    He made her sit on the marble counter of the vanity before turning back towards the bathtub. He turned on both the faucets. He added some bath salts and essential oils in it and waited patiently for it to get filled. Once it was, he checked the temperature of the water by dipping his hand in it. After making sure that the water wasn''t neither too cold nor too hot for, he turned his attention back to her.


    He helped her getting rid of her workout clothes before picking her up once again. He carried her to the bathtub and carefully put her down in the warm water.


    "Do you need my help?" He asked her softly as he undid her bun, sitting on the edge of the bathtub.


    Stella shook her head sideways. "Thank you for offering but I can manage. You should go and freshen up as well, or we might end up getting late for the office." She spoke up as she ran her dainty fingers through his silky black hairs.


    "You need to get a haircut. They are getting longer." She absentmindedly murmured.


    "I will get a haircut if that''s what my girl wants." Adam kissed the crown of her head before getting up. "I will see you in a while." He spoke before leaving her on her own.


    When Stella came out of the bathroom after her bath, her eyes landed on the bed and a tender smile graced her lips.


    A fresh pair of clothes were neatly placed on the bed, along with a matching accessories and low heeled pumps.


    There was a note lying on top of the dress. She moved the pair of studs which were placed over it and picked it up.


    ''Dress up!


    I am waiting for you downstairs in the dining room.


    Love,


    Adam.''


    Stella neatly folded the note before kissing it. She opened the top drawer of her bedside table and pulled out a small antique jewelry box. She removed its top, her eyes landing on the multiple folded notes of different colors.


    This box contained all of Adam''s notes which he had left for her on different occasions. She placed the new one inside the box before placing it back in the drawer.


    ''This box''s getting full, I need to get a big one.'' She made a mental note and turned her attention back to the suit Adam had picked out for her.


    --------------


    "Why haven''t you started eating?" Stella frowned as she looked at the untouched breakfast placed before Adam.


    "I was waiting for you." Adam replied and shifted his eyes from his phone to her.


    As his gaze landed on her, he felt his breathing stop and his heart missing a beat, or maybe more than one beats.


    She stood before him, dressed in a fitted, black high waist, checkered pants and an off-white button down shirt which was tucked in. A thin golden brown, leather belt was supporting her pants. Her cuffs were undone and rolled up to her elbows, a rose gold watch embracing her slender wrist. Her naturally wavy hair was tied up in a high pony, leaving a few strands which framed her face. She had kept her makeup minimal like she usually did for the office but this time she was wearing a reddish brown lip shade.


    Thought he was the one who had chosen her outfit and everything else she was wearing at the moment, he didn''t know if she could pull off the look this well.


    She looked more like the owner of some company rather than his assistant. All she needed was a coat to go with her outfit. No, wait! She didn''t even need that.


    "Why are you looking at me like this? Do I look bad?" Stella''s voice brought him out of his dazed state.


    "No. You look¡­ good." Adam was at a loss for words. "Have a seat, the breakfast is getting cold." He added.


    Stella nodded and sat down.


    -----------


    "You didn''t tell me that we had a meeting today." Stella pursed her lips as she looked at him accusingly. She was angrily tapping her foot on the ground as she stood before his desk. ''I am his assistant and he is telling me that we have a meeting to attend after arriving at the office. And that too at some other company.''


    "It escaped my mind sweetheart." Adam replied, giving her an innocent look.


    "It escaped ''your'' mind." Stella added as she gave him a doubtful look. She knew nothing can ''escape'' his mind. It only meant one thing that he had done that deliberately.


    It didn''t matter to her for what he did. What was actually bothering her was the ''why''.


    "What are you hiding?" Stella looked at him skeptically.


    Adam sighed as he picked up his coat and a green file. He made his way towards her and hugged her.


    "I will tell you when the time is right. Just have some faith in me." He murmured as he buried his face in her neck, inhaling her scent which was mixed with that of the essential oils he had put in her bath.


    "I do Mr. Adam Levinson." She replied, pulling back from the hug as she took his coat from his hand.


    She helped him in putting on the coat before taking the file from his other hand.


    "Can you at least tell me where are we going?" She narrowed her eyes at him.


    "R&E Group of Companies." Adam replied with a wide smile.

 Chapter 141 - James Brighton

    A black Maybach came to a halt before a tall building. Both Adam and Stella stepped down at the same time.


    The building had around twenty floors and was completely lined with black one way mirrors. One could see his own reflection in them from the outside, but the people on the other side could easily see through them.


    The name of the company could be seen at the top in bold letters which could easily catch a passerby''s attention with their shimmering golden shade.


    Stella gazed at the top of the building while Adam gazed at his girl. Both of them were lost in their own thoughts when someone interrupted them.


    A man of average height, walked briskly towards their direction. He must be in his early thirties and was wearing a light brown coat and matching pants, paired with a white shirt. His dark brown leather boots struck against the ground, making a thud sound with each of his steps, as he approached the duo.


    "Good morning Mr. Levinson. I am Mr. Brighton''s secretary."  He greeted Adam, not paying any attention to Stella.


    "And where exactly is Mr. Brighton?" Stella asked him curtly, raising an eyebrow at him.


    "He''s waiting for Mr. Adam''s arrival." The secretary replied as politely as he could.


    "You mean to say that he''s waiting for us, sitting in the lavish comfort of his office." Stella added as a smirk crept up on her face. "Shouldn''t he be here to welcome us? Or at least his son could have come since he''s the Vice President of the company. Is this how you treat your guests?"


    "N-No. You are taking it wrongly Miss. They were supposed to be here but they are caught up in a meeting. It was supposed to end ten minutes earlier but due to some technical issues which happened in between the presentation, it got delayed. I apologise for that." The secretary replied in a polite tone, though he was internally cursing her, but he knew better not to voice his thoughts out.


    "Shall we go upstairs now?" He asked, looking at Adam who replied him with just a nod.


    "You sure know a lot." Adam murmured softly as he pulled her towards himself a bit.


    "I don''t. But we do have internet these days you know. What do you think I was doing with my phone all the way to here." She replied to him, keeping her voice as low as she could before slowing down her steps so that she could walk behind him.


    Adam narrowed his eyes at her. He hated it whenever she did that.


    Stella glared at him, giving him a warning as not to start acting like a child.


    It wasn''t his company where they could even walk hand in hand and people won''t even bother looking at them. If they even walk side by side here, it''s going to end up in tomorrow''s newspaper and that too on the front page.


    Adam knew this too well, so he continued walking ahead of her with a grumpy face as they entered the building.


    Taking the President''s personal elevator, the man guided them all the way to the President''s office.


    "I am sorry that I cannot welcome you myself. I was in a meeting, it just got finished." A man in his early fifties walked towards them.


    He was wearing a dark blue striped coat over a plain dark blue button-down shirt with matching pants. Though he was old, but he had a good physique. It was obvious that he was among those people who spend a lot of time and money on the maintenance of their looks.


    Stella rolled her eyes inwardly. ''Excuses.'' She had seen the secretary texting someone on their way to the office. How dare someone look down on her man and then cover it up with lame excuses just to save their asses.


    "James, James Brighton." He extended his hand towards Adam who took it, shaking it firmly.


    "It''s alright Mr. Brighton. Work comes first." Adam replied with an expressionless face.


    "And this young lady is?" James turned his attention to the girl who was standing a couple of steps behind Adam, holding a green file in her hands.


    "She is my assistant. Stella." Adam introduced her in a placid tone.


    "Ms. Stella." James nodded in her direction.


    "Mr. Brighton." Stella replied with a nod, keeping a professional smile on her face.


    "Let''s have a seat then." James spoke up, smiling brightly. He was more than eager to know what brought the great Adam Levinson here.


    "Coffee, tea or anything else?" James asked the duo as the sat down.


    Adam and Stella were sitting on the couch while James sat on one of the single sofa chair across them.


    "A black coffee for me and an English tea for her." Adam replied without holding back.


    "Sure." James smiled at him before signaling his secretary to go and bring their drinks, who immediately left to comply with the orders.


    "So what brought you here Mr. Levinson?" James asked, turning his attention back to Adam.


    "I have an offer in which you might be interested in." Adam replied as he put forward his hand before Stella, silently asking her to pass over the file which she did.


    Adam passed the file to James. "Go through it once and take your time Mr. Brighton, we are in no rush." He added as he leaned against the back of the couch, lazily crossing his one leg over the other.


    James nodded and opened the file. It was a proposal for a business collaboration with one of the subsidiaries under Levinson Corp. His eyes widened in shock as he looked through the file, flipping one page at a time.


    His secretary had brought their drinks including his when he was halfway through the proposal, but he didn''t pay any attention to his steaming coffee.


    "Dad! Are they here?" A husky voice interrupted the quietness of the office as a young man entered.

 Chapter 142 - Benjamin Phillip Brighton

    "Dad! Are they here?" A husky voice interrupted the quietness of the office as a young man entered.


    Adam and Stella turned their heads towards the door, their eyes landing on the silhouette of a man who seemed to be in his mid twenties. He was clad in a dull gray coat and matching pants. A stoney gray button-down shirt could be seen peeking out through the lapels of his coat.


    "I am so sorry for being late." He added in his deep voice as he ran a hand through his light brown straight hair.


    He sauntered over to where they were sitting. He extended his hand towards Adam as he introduced himself. "Benjamin Phillip Brighton. The Vice President of the company."


    Adam shook his hand firmly. "Adam Levinson."


    "You don''t need to introduce yourself Mr. Levinson. I don''t think that there''s a single soul in Europe who doesn''t know about you." Benjamin added, giving Adam a bright smile who just nodded back at him.


    "And who is this beautiful lady?" His light brown eyes, which matched his hair perfectly, glinted under the white lights of the office as he looked at Stella.


    "She''s Mr. Levinson''s assistant, Stella." It was James who replied to him.


    "It''s a pleasure meeting you." Benjamin extended his hand before her.


    Stella shook it as she stood up to show his some respect. Before she could take her hand back, Benjamin turned and kissed the back of her hand.


    "You are a beauty Miss Stella." He added, his lips curling up in a grin.


    Stella retracted her hand back swiftly as she narrowed her eyes at him.


    Adam could feel his blood boiling as he took it all in. He cleaned his jaws, his hands which were resting on his legs, curled up in fists. Nerves were beginning to pop on the side of his forehead as he glared daggers at the man who had just brought misfortune over himself, on his own.


    ''You are lucky that I cannot do anything to you at the moment or it might ruin my plan. But I assure you that you will pay for kissing her hand.''


    The father and son duo could feel the temperature of their surroundings drop suddenly.


    Benjamin shifted his gaze to Adam, a shiver crept up his spine as his eyes met Adam''s. He could see the deathly aura which was enveloping him. He gulped a mouthful of saliva as he raised his hands up in the air.


    "I didn''t have an idea¡­.." He trailed off when Adam raised a hand up in the air.


    "You are getting the wrong idea here Mr. Benjamin. I just don''t like it when some men try to act all comfortable with a woman when she''s clearly not." Adam gave him a lop-sided smile.


    "I was just trying to be nice, I swear." Benjamin replied as he looked at Stella, who was looking down at her knotted fingers which were resting on her lap.


    "I am sorry Miss Stella." He added politely to which Stella replied with a nod.


    "It''s alright." Stella gritted through her teeth.


    "Let''s continue with the meeting then." Benjamin smiled and sat on the other sofa chair across them. He looked at hai father who was too busy to pay any attention to what was happening around him as he was too absorbed in reading the file.


    "What''s that?" Benjamin asked his father. He could tell that it must be something important judging by the expressions his father was wearing on his face as he flicked through the pages.


    "I will sign it." James spoke up after turning to the last page. He had a wide smile adorning his slightly chapped lips.


    "Have you looked at the conditions carefully?" Adam asked him, raising his left eyebrow a bit.


    "Yes, I have. I know they are a bit harsh but I know that we can fulfill them." James replied with a proud expression.


    "And you do know that the penalty for not abiding by those isn''t a small one." Adam added with a lazy expression.


    "But the profit isn''t too small either." James replied as he placed down the file. "My company has completed orders bigger that this. Although the deadline is a bit short, but I know that we can do this."


    "If you are so confident, then what are we waiting for?" Adam took out a pen from the inner pocket of his coat and picked up the file.


    He swiftly signed those pages which required his signature before passing it back to James.


    James signed the papers as well with wide grin on his face. He couldn''t contain his glee inside.


    Adam picked up the file from the table and passed him a meaningful smile.


    "I will send you another signed copy of these papers, you can just sign them and keep them for your records." He spoke up.


    James nodded his head up and down. "Sure."


    "We will take our leave now. Thank you so much for your time." Adam extended his hand towards James as he stood up with Stella following the suit.


    "The pleasure was all ours. It will be good working with you." James shook his hand.


    "Same here." Adam replied taking his hand back to his side.


    "I am sure your father will fill you in with the details." Adam turned his attention towards Benjamin who was sitting like a fool with no knowledge of what was happening around him. He had a confused expression on his face.


    "We will be seeing each other." Adam extended his hand towards him with a faint smile on his face. ''Soon.'' He thought the latter to himself as he shook his hand with a firm grip.


    "Let''s go." Adam passed the file to Stella.


    The duo walked out of the office, one after the other.


    James was so over the moon that he even forgot to see them out or ask his secretary to do so.


    "Are you going to tell me what was those papers about?" Benjamin couldn''t hold it in anymore and almost yelled at his father. "And what''s with your happy expressions?"

 Chapter 143 - A Collaboration

    "Are you going to tell me what was those papers about?" Benjamin couldn''t hold it in anymore and almost yelled at his father. "And what''s with your happy expressions?"


    "I told you earlier that it''s going to be a good day, didn''t I?" James smiled as he walked towards the small bar which was situated in one corner of his office.


    He picked up a scotch bottle and poured some in two glasses. He picked them up and walked back to where his son was sitting.


    "Adam Levinson wants to collaborate with us. Those papers I just signed, was actually a contract." James added as he passed one of the glasses to his son, a wide grin resting of his face.


    "WHAT?" Benjamin was shocked to his core hearing what his father had said.


    "Yes, my son. That was a contract, and it''s signed now." James replied, taking a sip of his scotch.


    "And what was the contract about?" Benjamin asked his father.


    "He''s going to establish a new subsidiary under the Levinson''s Corp. That subsidiary will be producing bags of all kinds, and we will be providing them most of the raw materials like satin, suede, denim, cotton and so on for the first five batches." James explained it to him as he sat down on the couch, leaning his back against it.


    "What difficult conditions and deadline you were talking about?" Benjamin raised an eyebrow.


    "Well, they are a bit challenging. But we can handle it." James spoke up in a lazy manner.


    "What about the profit?"


    "it will be a 70 / 30 split. They will get the 70 and we will be getting the 30 of course." James gave him a wide smile, showing off his pale teeth.


    "We are going to be rich then. Thirty percent of the profit that a subsidiary under the Levinson''s Corp. isn''t a small amount."


    Benjamin nodded his head. "It means the monetary issues we are facing at the moment won''t be lasting for long." He continued after a pause.


    "Not only they won''t be lasting long, but our financial condition will improve as well. How many companies will want to work with us after we are done with this project." James added as his smile grew wider.


    "Cheers to the good times ahead." Benjamin raised his glass towards his father.


    "Cheers." James replied, clinking his glass against his son''s.


    The father and son duo happily chatted, looking forward to the good times which would bless them soon. But was it actually the good times which would befall over them?


    ------------------


    Adam headed out of the building with Stella following him closely, heading towards his car. He had his lips curled up in a faint smile which added to his charm.


    He unlocked the car and got inside and patiently waited for Stella to settle inside as well. Once she was in, he engulfed in her a hug before placing a small kiss on the top of her crown.


    "Let those women stare all they want because that''s what they all can do. This man belongs to his little elf only." He chuckled, rubbing the back of head with affection.


    From the top floor until they exited the building, every single woman had there eyes set on Adam.


    Adam could feel Stella getting irritated with each of her step. He was having a hard time controlling his laugh. Who knew his little elf can become possessive as well?


    "Who told you to look this good?" Stella muttered against his chest she had his face buried in there.


    "I can''t help it baby girl. I was born this handsome." Adam replied as a small chuckle left his lips.


    "You are getting all jealous over the fact that a bunch of women stared at me. What about that guy kissing your hand, huh?" Adam added after a while when he didn''t hear a reply from her.


    "It wasn''t my fault." Stella replied, pulling back from the hug.


    "I am not saying it was your fault sweetheart. I am just saying that you are minding their stares. I wanted to beat the guy to death for touching you. It took all of my self control not to break his nose right there." He rubbed the top of her crown.


    "Don''t mess with my hair, we still have to go back to the office." Stella pouted, smacking his hand away.


    "Alright." Adam replied as he raised his hands up in the air in defeat.


    "And what''s the contract is about?" Stella asked him as he turned on the ignition.


    "I will explain it to you once we get back to the office love. Okay?" Adam replied to her, he had his eyes fixed on the road ahead.


    "Okay." Stella understandingly nodded her head.


    "Uncle Liam is throwing a celebratory party on Saturday night. He wants us to attend it." Adam spoke up.


    "Celebration for what?" Stella asked him, turning her face towards her.


    "The opening of a new mall under his company." Adam replied to her. "Do you want to go?" He shifted his eyes towards her for a mere second.


    "Of course. How can you even think about not attending it?" Stella narrowed her eyes at him.


    "I mean, we could stay back at home and have fun, just you and me." Adam added.


    "We do that every day. We are going to the party Adam." Stella added with a stern tone.


    "I don''t like parties." He grumbled.


    Stella looked at him intently. He was sulking like a kid who wasn''t allowed to go to his best friend''s house for a stay over.


    "I will be there with you. I won''t let you get bored." Stella spoke up as she placed her hand over his.


    "I know you won''t. I will spend all of my time in shooing unnecessary flies away from you." He replied, looking at her silhouette from the corner of his eye.


    "Back at you Mr. Levinson." Stella added as she pecked his cheek.


    "Blake and Katherine will also be there." Adam informed her as his lips curled up in a soft smile. He could still feel a tingling sensation on his cheek even though she had removed her lips.


    "Will Scott be there as well?" Stella asked him to which he nodded.


    "I think so."


    "I wonder why hasn''t he returned back to Amsterdam." Stella murmured under her breath as her eyebrows furrowed.

 Chapter 144 - Invitation

    "Are you going to tell me now, or not?" Stella spoke up as she raised one of her delicate eyebrows.


    "I was just ordering for our lunch sweetheart." Adam replied, putting down his phone on the bedside table. He had just left a text for Bella to let her know about their lunch.


    The couple was in the bedroom which was inside his office. Adam was leaning against the headboard with Stella''s head resting in his lap.


    "We are going to open a new subsidiary which will make bags of all sorts." Adam started to explain it to her.


    "The contract which I made him sign is about the first five batches of products. They will be providing us with some of the raw materials in return they will receive a handsome amount of profit." He continued.


    "You do know that R&E Group of Companies deals in textiles mainly?" He asked her as his fingers found their way into her hair. She had untied them before placing her head in his lap, letting them loose. They cascaded down his lap and onto the bed, loose wavy strands sprawling out over the light aqua satin sheets like the bold strokes of paint over a blank canvas. He was lost in admiring her beauty when he heard her reply.


    "I know."


    Adam hummed before continuing. "But the contract won''t do them any good."


    "Why is that?" She frowned, looking at his face.


    "The company''s facing some monetary issues, that is why he signed the papers on the spot, without discussing it with other board members." He paused. He was about to continue when Stella interrupted him.


    "Why would you sign a contract with a company like that? Since when did Levinson''s Corp. standards become so low?" Stella threw him a glare.


    "It didn''t! I didn''t sign a contract with them because I took pity or something of the sort, I am going to bring that father and son duo to the ground." Adam explained it to her, pinching the tip of her nose.


    "But why? Did they do something wrong by you?" Stella looked at him quizzically. ''They didn''t look like as if they had the guts to do that.''


    Adam gazed into her eyes, his mind becoming lost in thought as he contemplated whether or not he should tell her. Though he wanted to, but he knew that he couldn''t, not at least now.


    As if right on cue, his phone beeped, breaking his train of thoughts. He picked it up and saw that it was a text from Bella.


    ''Your food has arrived, Sir.''


    Adam swiftly typed a reply asking her to bring it in the bedroom herself and hit send.


    "I will tell you that some other time. For now, just have some faith in me that I have my own reasons for what I am doing." He leaned in and kissed the tip of her nose.


    Stella sighed and nodded. "I do." She passed him a soft smile. She knew that Adam wasn''t someone who would things without a reason. She had seen him working so hard on that contract, spending hours on it. She had a hunch that he had craftily hidden some loopholes in the conditions.


    "Thank you." He smiled at her. "Our lunch is here and I am famished, let''s eat first."


    "I am hungry as well." She replied to him as she heard a knock. "I will take it." She continued before sitting up and headed towards the door barefoot.


    "Thank you so much Bella and I apologise for the inconvenience." She spoke up after opening the door.


    "Oh come on! It''s not a big deal." Bella smiled at her, passing her the tray on which their orders were served neatly.


    "Next time just bring in the order directly, I will serve the dishes. You don''t have to do this." Stella smiled at her with gratitude.


    "Like I said before, it''s no big deal. You and Boss should enjoy your lunch before it cools down." Bella replied to her politely.


    Stella nodded and took the tray from her hands and thanked her one more time before returning back to the bed.


    "How many times do I have to tell you that don''t go around walking barefoot on the floor?" Adam spoke up, narrowing his eyes at her while she was busy placing down their food on a small wooden bed table.


    "Who was the one saying that I am famished?" Stella replied without looking up.


    "How are these two things even related?" Adam shook his head. "Don''t stand on the floor for too long, come on over." He grabbed her hand, pulling her towards him and on the bed.


    "Okay, okay." Stella climbed up on the bed.


    She leaned against the headboard and tugged at his shirt, making him look at him.


    "What?" Adam was holding a ceramic plate in one hand while the other one was holding tongs. He was about to pick up a piece of braised chicken, but had to stop midway.


    "Feed me." She replied, giving him a pleading look and pursing her lips in a pout.


    Adam chuckled at her antics and patted her head as he looked at her intently, his gaze laced with tenderness.


    He served a little of every dish is a small and gave into her plea.


    ---------------


    *WARNING! A TING OF R-18 CONTENT AHEAD.*


    "I missed you." Rachel spoke in between her breaths. She was being kissed ruthlessly.


    "I missed your body as well." A gruff voice resonated in the quietness of the car, in between their huffing.


    "Did you get what I asked you to?" Taylor asked her as he pulled her over his lap.


    "Of course, I did. I brought the invitation to the party. It wasn''t hard for me to get my hands on one since my Dad is the host." She replied, straddling him, pressing her damp core against his hardness. Her skirt was pulled up, exposing her black lacy thong which hardly covered her womanhood.


    "Good girl! Time for your payment now." Taylor added as he pulled her thong away, exposing her wet folds.


    He inserted two of his fingers inside her in one swift movement, making her moan at the sudden intrusion. The wetness between her legs increased as he moved his fingers in and out of her.


    She worked her fingers on his belt and zip, before pulling out his hardened rod out of his boxers and started to stroke it.


    The inside of the car was filled with moans and grunts as they continued pleasing each other.

 Chapter 145 - Will You Be My Escort?

    "Wake up!" A loud voice entered his ears, stirring him up from his deep slumber.


    "What is it?" He grumbled as he buried his face into his pillow.


    "You are supposed to be making my breakfast, and here you are still sleeping like a baby."


    "Oh! Shit!" Scott cursed, sitting up with a jolt. "I am so sorry." He apologized. "You go and get ready for your work, breakfast will be done soon."


    "It better be." Katherine glared at him before walking out of his room.


    Scott had turned her guestroom in his own room. She wondered where did he found all of that stuff anyways. She tried asking him more than once but didn''t get a proper reply.


    ''Who cares? At least I have a good cook now.''


    In return for allowing him to stay at her place and providing him with food, Scott agreed to become her cook.


    "Is it done?" Katherine walked into the kitchen and asked him.


    Scott was busy shifting the food on to a platter when he heard the clicking sound of her heels.


    "Almost. Just need to do a final touch up." He replied without looking up from the platter.


    He placed two French toast on one side and garnished them with diced pineapples. He moved the freshly cut fruits from the chopping board and placed them next to the toasts. At last, he placed a small bowl in one corner of the platter which had blueberry flavoured yoghurt, topped with fresh blueberries.


    "There you go." He placed the platter before her on the kitchen counter as she sat on one of the stools.


    Passing her a spoon and fork, he turned around to grab a black coffee mug from the counter and poured some coffee in it.


    "Here''s your coffee, not too sweet, not too bitter. Just the way you like it." He placed the cup next to her platter before leaning over the counter. He grabbed her chin and tilted her face upwards before placing a feather like kiss on her lips which were tinted bright red.


    "Isn''t your neck line too low." Scott shifted her gaze to her exposed cleavage, still leaning over the counter. She was wearing a bright red flowy dress which stopped a few inches above her knees. Two spaghetti straps which flung over her shoulders, were the only thing supporting her dress. The deep V-shaped neckline exposed her cleavage, as well as some part of her breasts. She looked enticing.


    "None of your business." Katherine replied. "It''s not like you are my boyfriend." She continued, giving him a smirk.


    Scott narrowed his eyes at her before capturing her lips, which were slightly parted. He kissed her slowly and sensually, his tongue exploring every corner of her mouth.


    Katherine couldn''t help but respond to his actions. She put down the utensils and cupped his face.


    After stealing her breath away, Scott reluctantly let go of her lips.


    "I may be not your boyfriend, but you pay me for my services. I just don''t want anyone else to steal you away from me." Scott winked at her.


    "Will you stop kissing me out of nowhere? I am already getting late and now I had to redo my lipstick." She looked at the faint red marks on his lips and smacked his shoulder.


    "It''s not my fault that you seduced me early in the morning." He spoke up, shifting his gaze back to her cleavage.


    "Stop staring at them." Katherine flicked his forehead.


    "Stop showing off them." Scott shot back with a smirk.


    Katherine shook her head before turning her attention back to her breakfast. ''He''s impossible.''


    "I am gonna go and freshen up." Scott spoke up as he walked out of the kitchen.


    "Wait!" Katherine shouted, making him stop in his tracks. "There''s a party I need to attend this Saturday, will you be my escort?"


    "Sure." Scott shrugged his shoulders before continuing to head towards his room.


    "Thanks." Katherine muttered as she looked at his retreating back. She made a mental note to pick up a suit for him.


    She shifted her gaze back to her food, thinking about how her life was going crazy and how one thing led to another.


    --------------


    The boy she fell in love with was only after her money and fame. The fact that she was a beauty, only served as a plus point for him. Five years together and all of it meant nothing to him. All those moments they spend together, turned into dust.


    She was preparing to give him a surprise for his birthday. She had told him that she wouldn''t be in the city that day, but it was just a lie. How was she supposed to surprise him otherwise? She dressed up in black that day because he once said that she looked more beautiful in it.


    She bought him a cake from the best bakery of Berlin. It was his favorite flavor, chocolate fudge. After booking a honeymoon suite in his favorite hotel, she made her way to his apartment. He was the Vice President of a big company and therefore his apartment was more like a penthouse.


    Since had a duplicate key card of his place, she directly entered inside. She removed her heels quietly and placed them by the door. She didn''t want to alarm him of her presence. She placed the cake on the kitchen counter and  made her way to his bedroom with slow and soft steps. The entire apartment was shrouded in darkness, but she knew for sure that he was here. She confirmed his whereabouts from one of his close friends earlier.


    When she was right outside his room, she heard some muffled sounds coming out. She turned the knob and opened the door.


    "Surp¡­." She couldn''t complete her sentence as her eyes landed on the bed, her eyes teared up as the bright smile slipped from her face.


    A stark naked girl was sprawled over the four poster bed, her hands and legs were tied to each poster with ties. She was a moaning mess, asking for more as the man pumped in and out of her.


    -------------


    A clattering sound brought her back to the present. The fork in her hand had slipped through her fingers, falling on to the marble counter.


    She shook her head slightly before continuing with her breakfast.


    £¬

 Chapter 146 - Try Being A Girl

    Saturday evening,


    Stella was rushing up to the flight of stairs when she saw the old butler, who was heading towards the kitchen, and stopped suddenly after climbing a couple of steps.


    "Uncle Rob?" She called out to him.


    "Yes, child?" The old butler replied politely. He had gotten used to her presence around the house. He knew by now that this little one had a heart of gold and wasn''t like those gold diggers he had seen. Moreover, her presence brightened up the whole place, making it more lively. He couldn''t remember when was the last time the mansion was brimming with such a joyful delight after his master passed away.


    "Have you seen Adam? I have been looking for him everywhere, but he seems to have disappeared." Stella asked him stomping her right foot on the floor like a child.


    "I saw him heading towards the master bedroom, but that was like half an hour ago. You should check there." The old butler replied politely to her, his lips were curled up in a wide smile, adding more wrinkles on his already aged face.


    "I will, I was heading there anyways. Thank you so much Uncle Rob." Stella passed him a bright smile before rushing up the stairs and to the master bedroom.


    "These two are inseparable." He muttered under his breath, shaking his head sideways as the smile on his face became more bright.


    "Oh Lord, always keep them blessed and happy like this." He muttered a prayer before heading to the kitchen.


    Stella walked into the room only to find it empty. It was exactly the same as she had left it an hour ago. No, wait! There was something new added to the bed.


    She walked towards it with soft and steady steps. The corners of her eyes began to wrinkle as her lips broke into a bright smile.


    There was a gown placed on the bed neatly, along with matching accessories and a shoe box.


    ''He needs to stop buying me new dresses for every occasion. I am not even done wearing all the dresses that Katherine got me.'' She shook her head sideways before going around the bed.


    After sitting down next to the dress, she traced her hand over the fine material, her fingers gliding over the smooth layers of chiffon.


    "Do you like it?" Adam''s voice brought her movements to a halt. She looked up and found him leaning against the wall next to the walk-in closet.


    "Don''t tell me that you were in the closet and came out when I was busy admiring the dress?" Stella gave him a stern look, narrowing her eyes at him.


    "I can''t miss your expressions, can I now?" Adam shrugged and began to walk towards her.


    "Do you like the dress or not?" He asked her again as he stood next to where she was sitting.


    "You are the one who got me this dress, how can I not like it?" Stella looked at him, craning her neck to have a better view of his face.


    "I love it Adam." She continued after a pause.


    Adam gave her his signature smile, showing off his pearly white teeth. Stella felt her heart skip a beat as she gazed at his face.


    "Now start getting ready, you take so much time and we don''t want to be late or else Uncle Liam will have my head on a platter." He patted the top of her head, earning a glare from her.


    "Try being a girl." She scoffed in return, swatting his hand away.


    "Then who will be your boyfriend?" Adam added with a smirk.


    "I am going to take a bath." Stella ignored his remark and stood up.


    "Do you need any help with that?" Adam grabbed her hand and yanked at it, making her fall into his arms.


    "I doubt that we will be able to make it to the party if you help me with it." Stella threw an accusing glare at him.


    "I wish I could argue with you over that, but both of us know that it''s the truth." He murmured seductively next to her ear, giving her goosebumps all over her body.


    Stella gulped down a mouth full of saliva as his lips landed on the back of her ear, placing a soft kiss.


    Adam reluctantly let her go and kissed the top of her head.


    "Off you go now." He smacked her ass with his palm, making her yelp.


    Stella shifted her eyes to his face, glaring daggers at him before walking away.


    Adam looked at her retreating back before tilting his head down. His eyes landed on the bulging tent of his trousers, making him shake his head.


    "She''s going to be the death of us." He murmured to himself before walking back into the walk-in closet. He needed to take his suit to the room across because he was fully aware of the fact that she is going to take a lot of time, like forever.


    --------------


    "Where were you?" Katherine asked, raising an eyebrow as she saw Scott entering the apartment.


    "Work." He replied to her question with a single word.


    "What kind of work do you do which requires you to go out on odd hours?" Katherine looked at him questioningly.


    Scott, who was on his way to his room, stopped in his tracks, and looked up at her. She was sitting on a stool by the kitchen counter. Her delicate fingers were holding on to the thin stem of a wine glass which was half filled with red wine.


    He walked towards her, taking long strides. He stopped before her and gazed into her eyes. He could see that they were slightly puffy.


    ''She has been crying over the douchebag once again.'' He clenched his hands tightly into fists, trying to shove down the blood thirst which was beginning to erupt and engulf his entire being.


    "I may be an asshole who has been with too many girls, but I am not a player. I have one rule which I always follow, one girl at a time. And it''s just you now, and it will be you as long as you want it." Scott spoke up, gazing into her eyes.


    "So, stop comparing me to that asshole and stop crying over him. He doesn''t deserve your precious tears babe." He cupped her cheeks in between his palms.


    "I loved him with my entire being and he¡­.." A tear escaped her eyes.


    "Sshhhh!" Scott placed a finger over her quivering lips and stopped her.


    "No talking about him. Just talk about me." He murmured before leaning in. He placed a small peck on her lips before engulfing her in a bear hug.


    "There''s a suit on your bed, wear it for tonight." She spoke into his chest as here hands tightened around him.


    "Alright." He replied to her softly but his eyes betrayed his voice. There was a fire burning within them which could burn someone to ashes, and that''s exactly what he was planning to do with that man who hurt his Kitty Kat.

 Chapter 147 - I Dont Know How To Cook

    "Why do guys always end up coming late?" Liam threw a glare towards the couple as they walked towards him hand in hand.


    "There are barely any people here." Adam looked around the quiet hall as a soft piano melody buzzed in the background.


    "You should be the first one to arrive." Liam scoffed.


    "Stop being so childish, it doesn''t look good on you." Adam reprimanded him. "I needed to take care of something before coming here, so we got late, a bit late." He continued.


    Stella looked their interlaced fingers and guilt filled her heart. They got late because of her. She took her own time to take a bath and then in getting ready. When she came out after getting all dolled up, Adam was sitting leisurely in the living room, looking all handsome and charming as usual.


    She looked up at him only to find him already looking down at her. She mouthed him a thank you which was returned with a wink and a wide goofy grin.


    There was no way he would let his girl to be held responsible for getting late before others, even if it was Uncle Liam. Only he was allowed to bully his baby girl about that.


    "You look good Uncle Liam." Stella stepped forward and hugged him by his waist.


    "Not more than you sweety." He hugged her back.


    "What about me? Who''s going to praise me?" Adam complained as he stood by the sidelines.


    "One has to look good in order to be praised." Liam added as he let go of Stella. His reply made her laugh as she stepped back to be by Adam''s side.


    "You always look good to me." She murmured, wrapping her hands around his arm.


    "It''s too late now. You are going to be punished thoroughly once we go back home." He leaned his face in and murmured next to her ear keeping his voice as low as he could.


    Stella''s face turned a deep shade of red when she heard his threat. She smacked him on his chest lightly, making him chuckle.


    "You guys carry on, I have to welcome some guests." Liam interrupted and as he looked at the entrance of the banquet before walking away.


    "Where are the others?" Stella asked him as her eyes wandered around.


    "They will be here in a while I think." Adam pulled her closer to himself.


    "Come with me, I need to show you something." Adam muttered before dragging her out of the banquet.


    The banquet was arranged in the garden behind the mention. One could see a number of cars on one side of the banquet while the backside was set up for the catering.


    He dragged Stella to that backdoor of mansion but didn''t stop there. He continued walking ahead and stopped before another wooden door. He tried turning the knob but it was locked.


    "Damn it!" He cursed before looking around to see if anyone was there or not. Stella thought that he might be looking for some maid or servant to ask them about the keys, but what he did next, shocked her to her core.


    "I am going to need this." He pulled out a hair pin from Stella''s hair which was holding up her hair from one side.


    Stella looked at him questioningly. Just as she was about to ask him what he needed the hair pin for, her words got stuck inside her throat as her eyes began to pop out.


    He twisted the two sides of the hair pin a bit and inserted it in the key hole. He moved it inside it as his other hand turned the knob from one side to the other. He soon heard a click sound, his lips curling up in a victorious smile as he took out the pin and turned the knob, opening the door wide.


    He stepped to the side and let Stella step in first who was still under shock. He followed her inside and closed the door. There was complete darkness around them and Stella couldn''t see anything before she heard a switch being flipped and everything turned bright. There was a staircase right before her eyes, leading to God knows where.


    She turned around to look at Adam who busy fixing her hair pin.


    "Don''t bother with that, there are two more pins holding the lock up." She was about to take the pin from his hand and throw it but he moved his hands away from her.


    "There you go. It''s fixed." He showed the pin to her before putting it back to its original place neatly.


    "How did you do that?" Stella asked him as she grabbed his arm before he could take a step forward.


    "Your boyfriend knows how to pick locks sweetheart." He pinched the tip of her nose.


    "But, how?" She asked, smacking his hand away.


    "Blake''s father taught it to both of us. It comes in handy at times." He replied.


    "What else don''t I know about you?" Stella looked at him with a puzzled expression. What else did she didn''t know about him?.


    "I am an exceptionally good shooter and I can beat a professional assassin with my bare hands. That''s if he doesn''t have a gun pointed to my head of course." He replied to her softly.


    Stella chuckled at his answer thinking that he must be joking. But her laughter died down when she saw his serious expression.


    "You are kidding? Right?" She asked him as her brows furrowed.


    "Come with me." Adam took her hand and guided her up the stairs to the rooftop.


    "This used to be my favorite spot whenever I used to come here." He guided her to the wooden chairs which were placed under a small wooden canopy on one side of the roof.


    He continued after making her sit comfortably.


    "I used to sit here for hours, doing nothing in particular. Sometimes I used to bring a sketchbook with me with some pastel colors and sketch how the sky looked at that time."


    "You know how to sketch? Is there anything you don''t know how to do?" Stella asked him as she shot him an envious look.


    "There''s one. I don''t know how to cook. I think that''s the only thing I don''t know a single thing about." He replied with a chuckle.


    "And about that shooting and all, I wasn''t joking, love." He added, his expression turning serious as he began to explain the history of his family.

 Chapter 148 - Reunion

    Stella stood by the railings, her elbows resting on them as the upper half of her body was leaning a bit forward. She was looking up at the sky as a number of thoughts ran through her mind. She was trying to take in all that Adam had just told her about his family and about himself. She knew the Levinson''s were powerful but this much, she had no idea.


    Adam was sitting in his earlier position as he looked intently at her back.


    The light coming from the full moon fell over her, illuminating her entire being. The fine chiffon of her halter neck dress flowed with the breeze, the champagne gold base shimmered under the moonlight. The was playing with the wavy locks of her hair as she stood there, lost in her own world.


    Adam had been contemplating about how and when to tell her about him being the King of the most feared criminal organization of Europe. He tried to do it on multiple occasions throughout the week, but every time he looked at her, his determination tumbled down. He was scared of losing her, he was afraid that she might leave him at the very instance he tells her.


    He himself didn''t know what came over him earlier which made him drag her to here and tell her. He was worried that his deepest fear might become true. She had not spoken a single word after he had laid the truth out before her.


    He finally stood up after fifteen minutes and walked towards her, his steps slow and steady. He hugged her from behind, his arms wrapping around her and pulling her towards him.


    "Why are you so quiet, love?" He spoke up next to her ear, burying his face in the crook of her neck.


    "Say something, anything." He continued.


    "What do you want me to say?" Stella spoke up after a while, still looking at the sky.


    "Talk to me, please. You being quiet like this, doesn''t settle well with me." Adam murmured against her skin.


    "Why didn''t you tell me about it last week? Or throughout this week?" Stella replied to his pleas.


    "I did try telling you, but I just couldn''t bring myself to do it. Remember all those times I called your name but didn''t say anything when you turned your attention to me. Those were the moments I wanted to tell you about this, but everytime I gazed into these hazel eyes my fear got the best of me, shattering down my courage into pieces." He spoke up, his voice as soft as the breeze that blew by them.


    "Then why did you tell me now? It''s not like I could have found out about it." Stella added.


    "You deserve to know the truth. You deserve to know me." Adam replied, placing a soft kiss on her shoulder.


    "Adam?" Stella called out his name, her voice barely a whisper, as she turned around in his arms.


    Adam hummed as he moved a few strands of hair away from her face.


    "Do you know how hard it is to digest the fact that my boyfriend, with whom I live, is the Adam Levinson? Now add that he''s also the King of the European underworld to it. I-I¡­.." She furrowed her delicate eyebrows.


    "If you want to leave, I won''t stop you." Adam stopped her from continuing, looking everywhere but at her face.


    "What nonsense are you talking Mister?" She flicked his forehead, making him look at her. "Did I say I am leaving? Or someone else told you that I said that? How can be you so dense? My point was that it''s too much for me to take in. But I am not leaving you. You are still the same person I fell in love with Adam."


    "You¡­ you aren''t going to leave me?" Adam asked her with a baffled expression on his face.


    "Why? Do you want me to leave?" She shot him a look. ''Are you serious man?''


    "No, no, no. I don''t. It''s just¡­." Adam wanted to continue but Stella stopped him, placing a finger over his lips.


    "I would have kissed you to stop you from blabbering anymore nonsense but I don''t want to ruin my lipstick, so let''s just do with the finger from now." She spoke up, making him chuckle. "Let''s head back before Uncle Liam finds that we have disappeared." She took his head and guided him to the stairs.


    Adam quietly followed her like a well behaved child all the way back to the banquet, smiling like a fool. A huge burden was lifted off his shoulders and he was feeling like a free bird.


    "Stella?" Katherine shouted when she saw her dragging Adam.


    "Where were you guys? I have been looking for you all over the place." She complained as she approached them.


    "We went out for some fresh air." Stella replied before hugging her. "You look beautiful Kat." She complimented her as she let her go. "Mint green is definitely your color, girl." She eyed her spaghetti straps silk gown which had a long slit on the right, exposing her fair toned leg.


    "You definitely look better than me." Katherine replied.


    "Look who do we have here." Blake spoke up as he approached them with Lillian. Both of them were wearing black.


    "Looks more like a reunion then some celebratory party." Lillian interrupted them as she engulfed Stella in a hug.


    "Here''s your drink." Scott towards Katherine, not paying any attention to others.


    "Thank you." Katherine took a champagne flute from his hand before she began to introduce him to the others.


    "Everyone, meet Scott. He is my escort for the party. Scott, meet everyone." She continued.


    "Why aren''t you back in Amsterdam by now?" Stella spoke up. "As far as I know, you don''t have to be here anymore, the contract has been already signed."


    "What contract?" Katherine looked at Stella before looking back at Scott, who was rooted to his spot, glaring daggers at Stella.

 Chapter 149 - Introductions

    "Why aren''t you back in Amsterdam by now?" Stella spoke up. "As far as I know, you don''t have to be here anymore, the contract has been already signed."


    "What contract?" Katherine looked at Stella before looking back at Scott, who was rooted to his spot, glaring daggers at Stella.


    "He signed a contract with Levinson''s Corp. I mean his company." Stella replied to her before shifting her gaze back to Scott. "You didn''t answer me man. Why aren''t you going back? Don''t you have en entire conglomerate to look after?"


    "Cong-conglomerate?" Katherine shifted her eyes to Scott. "Y-you lied to me!" It was more like a statement. "You as****e!" She cursed him before walking away.


    "Nice work, Stella." Scott threw an accusing look at her before he walked away, going after Katherine.


    "Did I say something which I shouldn''t have?" Stella asked, still looking at their retreating figures which soon disappeared in the crowd.


    "Looks like you did." It was Blake who replied to her.


    "Crap!" She pursed her lips before shrugging her shoulders. "But serves him right. Who told him to lie to Katherine?"


    "So how is it going between you two? All good?" She turned her attention towards the other couple as she leaned her head against Adam''s shoulder.


    "Yeah!" Lilian nodded, she was about to continue when Blake interrupted her.


    "More like steamy." He added with a wink, making her roll her eyes.


    "We need to find Mr. Nelson and then leave. We have a meeting to attend." Lillian grabbed onto his arm before dragging him away, leaving Stella and Adam to themselves.


    "I am getting bored." Stella murmured as she looked up at Adam.


    "Shall we go back?" Adam asked her as he moved his hand to her face.


    "Not yet!" She replied, leaning her face into his open palm.


    "Let''s grab a drink then." Adam added before guiding her to the bar.


    -------------


    "You know what to do with this, right?" Taylor purred next Rachel''s ear.


    They were inside her bedroom and he had her pinned against the wall, right next to the door.


    "I do! I had to make her drink this and then send her here." Rachel replied in between her breaths. They had just shared a hot kiss, and her mind was still hazy.


    "Good girl. I will give you your payment next time." Taylor spoke up as he began to fix his coat. "Just give me a call when it''s done." He ordered her before walking out.


    Rachel looked at the closed door before shifting her eyes to the small transparent packet in her hand which contained some light yellow crushed crystals. She had seen the powder before and knew what it was, a very potent aphrodisiac. One dose of this can make you crave for sex for an entire night. Nothing else could cure the rising temperature of the body. She had taken it one before, more specifically she was forced to.


    "Let''s see if Adam can even look at you after tonight." She muttered under his breath.


    She put the packet inside her clutch and walked out after fixing her gown, her lips were already curled up in a victorious smile.


    ------------


    "Katherine? Listen to me, please." Scott was almost jogging now, trying to catch up with her as she walked towards her car.


    "What new lie do you want me to listen to now?" Katherine replied to him without turning back to look at him.


    "I am sorry that I did not tell you about who exactly I am." He added as covered the distance between them.


    "You are the same as that douchebag." She added as she came to a halt before her fiery red Audi. "There''s no difference between the two of you." She continued, combing through her clutch to look for her car''s key.


    "Looking for these." Scott pulled out the key from the inner pocket of his coat and unlocked the car.


    "Give it to me." She put her hand forward and asked him.


    "No. Are you forgetting that I am your escort for tonight babe?" He smirked before walking close to her.


    "Can we please go back to your apartment and talk?" He gazed into her eyes and plead.


    "You aren''t coming anywhere with me Mr. Scott. If that''s your real name."  Katherine scoffed, making him chuckle.


    "I can assure you that''s my real name." He pulled out a card from his coat''s inside pocket and passed it to her.


    "You want me to trust a business card?" Katherine gave him a skeptical look.


    "You are cute." He let out a heartfelt laughter, sending shivers down her spine.


    She gulped as she tried to calm herself down. ''It''s just a laugh. Why the hell are you having goosebumps all over your body, girl?'' She scolded herself.


    "I haven''t lied to you so far. Why would I do that now?" He asked her, raising his right eyebrow.


    "You didn''t lie to me? What about when you said..." Katherine trailed off as she recalled everything that happened so far.


    "When did I lie to you, Kitty Kat?" Scott asked her again, taking a couple of steps closer to her.


    "Y-y-you¡­."


    "I-I-I, what?" He asked her again. He was now towering over her.


    "You never asked me about myself. I told you what happened that night and my name, and that was utterly true. You didn''t ask me anything else. If you would have, I would have never lied to you." He continued.


    Katherine stood before him rooted to her spot. She couldn''t argue with him even if she wanted to. Whatever he said, was true. She didn''t bother asking him about him. They were living under the same roof for a couple of days already and she didn''t even ask his surname.


    "Let me re-introduce myself, Ms. Collins." He wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her a bit closer. "Scott, Scott Trevor. I am the CEO of Trevor Holdings."


    "Katherine, Katherine Collins. I run my own business and own a fashion house by the name of Sparkle. But I think you already know that, Mr. Trevor." She replied, gazing into his ocean blue eyes.


    "You can just call me Scott." He gave her a lop-sided grin which made her smile as well.


    -------------


    "Here''s your drink Ma''am." The bartender passed Stella a glass of red wine.


    Adam was holding a glass of scotch in his hand. He was resting his elbow on the bar counter as he kept his gaze fixated at Stella, taking in all of her actions.


    Stella looked at him and smile before bringing the glass close to her lips. She took a small sip of her drink and heaved out a contented sigh.


    Unbeknownst to her, two pairs of eyes were set on her every movement.

 Chapter 150 - Is It Done?

    Stella twirled the glass in between her fingers after taking a couple of sips. She looked at Adam who was busy replying to someone''s text.


    "Put your phone down." She grumbled as she moved a step closer to him.


    "Just a moment, it''s important." Adam replied without looking up from his phone''s screen. His eyes were fixated it as his fingers flew swiftly over the touch screen.


    "It''s always something important." She rolled her eyes back before continuing. "It''s Saturday Adam, and you are in a party."


    "Are you forgetting that I have to look after some other things besides the business now?" He finally looked up from his phone before locking the screen and shoving in inside his coat''s pocket.


    "It means I won''t get to spend my weekends with you now." She pursed her lips, her eyebrows furrowing.


    "Of course you will. You will accompany me everytime I visit the base." He patted her head softly.


    "Really?" Her eyes lit up as her lips curled up in a soft smile.


    Looking at her pleased expression, Adam let out a hearty chuckle. "Yeah!"


    "Why don''t you go and look for Lillian and Blake? I think they will be leaving soon." He continued. "I will join you guys in a while."


    "Oh, right! I almost forgot about them." She replied before finishing her drink. "I will see you then." Stella replied before walking away from the bar.


    Adam looked at her retreating figure until she disappeared into the crowd. He turned his attention towards the bartender and motioned him to give him a refill.


    The bartender came to him with a bottle of scotch in his hands.


    "What was it?" Adam muttered under his breath, keeping his voice low.


    "Some sort of powder. She asked me to mix it in the lady''s drink." The bartender replied to him, keeping his head down as he poured the drink into his glass.


    "Did you?" Adam''s voice dropped a few degrees down.


    "Of course I didn''t. How can I harm my future lady boss?" The man replied.


    "Good." Adam added as the corner of his lips slightly turned upwards, adorning his face with a devilish smirk. "Can you recognize the woman?"


    "She''s Mr. Liam''s daughter." The bartender replied.


    "Add the same stuff in her drink." Adam ordered him without even flinching for once. He didn''t want to hurt Liam in anyway, and he knew how much he loved his daughter, but Rachel needed to be taught a lesson.


    "As you say, Boss." The man nodded his head slightly before turning around and got busy with other customers.


    Adam gulped down his drink, finishing it in a single go before walking away from the bar and headed to find his beloved little elf.


    "There you go Ma''am."  The bartender placed a martini before her.


    "Is it done?" She asked him.


    "Yes." The man replied to her with a nod.


    "Here''s your reward." She added before throwing a thick wad of cash towards him.


    "Thank you Ma''am." He replied as he bowed his head slightly.


    "Keeps your lips sealed." Rachel glared at him. She picked up the glass which was served before him and gulped down the drink before heading in the direction in which Adam had gone.


    She had a victorious smile gracing her face as she strutted through the crowd, unbeknownst to the situation she had gotten herself into.


    ------------


    Liam was like a fatherly figure for Adam. He had always been there for him, especially after Paul''s death. Adam was always worried about his safety. What happened to his father, could happen to Liam as well. They were best friends after all. So he asked Blake to place some men around him, especially in those big parties where anything could happen to one.


    The bartender was one of Blake''s men. He wasn''t some ordinary bodyguard but a highly skilled assassin from the organization which was now under Adam''s controlled. The news of Adam taking over the organization had spread like wildfire throughout the network.


    When Rachel had asked him to put the powder in some lady''s drink, he was angered enough already at how these rich brats were like. His angered increased three folds when he saw that the lady in question was the one who had come with the Big Boss. And judging by his treatment towards her, she was probably their future lady boss. There was no way he would harm her and put his own life at the line.


    He had agreed to Rachel''s demand but didn''t put the powder in the lady''s drink. He rather took out his cell phone discreetly and texted Adam before he served them their drinks.


    ''A woman wants me to mix something in the lady''s drink who is sitting next to you.''


    -------------


    The bartender looked at the thick wad of cash in his hands. He shook his head sideways before shoving it inside his pants'' pocket.


    ------------


    "There you are. I was looking everywhere for you." Adam approached Stella, who was standing with Blake and Lillian.


    Stella raised an eyebrow at him as if mocking him. ''Really? You are the one who asked me to look for them.''


    "What''s with the look?" Adam asked her before pulling her closer.


    "Nothing." Stella shook her head sideways before turning her attention back to Blake and Lillian.


    "What do you guys say about it?" She asked them.


    "I don''t mind as long as Lilly doesn''t." Blake replied to her.


    "What do you say?" Stella asked Lillian who nodded her head in a yes. "I am in."


    "What are you guys talking about?" Adam, who was standing clueless about what the rest were talking about, finally spoke up.


    "I invited them over for tomorrow." Stella replied to his question before throwing one at him. "You won''t mind that, will you?"


    "Do as you please baby girl. I won''t mind if you burn the entire place down to ashes." He replied to her, placing a small kiss on the side of her head.


    Stella beamed at him before mouthing a thank you to him.


    "I will leave Katherine and Scott a text as well. Let''s see they come together or separately." She giggled.


    The peaceful atmosphere between the four of them was interrupted as a man''s voice approached their ears.


    "It''s good to see you again Miss Stella."

 Chapter 151 - You Shouldnt Have Done That

    The peaceful atmosphere between the four of them was interrupted as a man''s voice approached their ears.


    "It''s good to see you again Miss Stella."


    The four of them turned around in the direction where the voice had come from.


    Taylor stepped towards them with slow and steady steps. The plain black coat and dress pants, though didn''t exactly made her stand out in the crowd but didn''t turn down his charismatic aura by one bit. The silk button-down maroon shirt, which was peeping out in between the lapels of his coat, stood out against the little amount his exposed fair skin as he had undone the first two buttons of the shirt.


    "Mr. Taylor, I didn''t expect to see you hear." It was Adam who spoke up first.


    "I was getting bored and didn''t have anything else to do. So I decided to show up here for a while. The invite was resting on my study desk anyways." Taylor replied leisurely as he came to a stop, standing next to Adam.


    "Mr Blake! It''s a pleasure to see you here." He directed his eyes towards Blake who just nodded back at him. This was how Blake has always treated people with whom he didn''t have any link with.


    "Good evening to you as well." He shifted his gaze to Lillian for a mere second, who didn''t even bother with acknowledging him with a nod, before turning his head back to Adam.


    "Did you get the reports? I asked them to send you a copy as well." He asked Adam, his whole stance changing into a serious one as he started to talk about business.


    "I did. The progress is good so far. But we can do better. The earlier the set up is done, the sooner we can start with the production." Adam nodded slightly as he began to speak. His one hand was inside the pocket of his pants while the other one rested in the curve of Stella''s back.


    "You are right. We have the first batch of machinery and technicians arriving at the end of this month." Taylor replied to him. "We have to visit the place then."


    Adam hummed in response. He was in no mood to entertain the pathetic excuse of a man, who was standing before him.


    "How are you doing Ms Stella?" He finally moved his head to face Stella.


    "I am doing fine Mr. Taylor. Hope you are doing good as well." She added, keeping her as straight as she could. She didn''t know why but he always gave her a creepy feeling everytime their eyes locked.


    "That, I am." He replied to her, his lips curling up in a bright smile. He eyed Stella up and down. She looked pretty fine to him. ''The drug should have started to affect her by now. But she looks damn fine to me.'' He thought to himself.


    "You guys carry on. I have to leave now. My presence is required somewhere." Taylor bid his goodbye to the two couples and turned around to leave. The peaceful expression on his face was replaced by anger as he clenched his already fisted hands which were inside his pocket. ''That b***h can''t even do one job right.''


    He knew how potent the drug was as it was made by his own people. The amount he gave Rachel to, was enough for Stella to be affected by now. But looking at her relaxed state, he could tell that she didn''t have a pinch of it in her system.


    ''Looks like I need to step up my game.'' An evil grin broke over his face as he got inside his car.


    -----------


    "You alright sweetheart?" Adam asked Stella as she settled down next to him.


    "Yeah. I am just tired." She replied, snuggling against him.


    "You should just sleep then." Adam murmured softly next to her ear, running his fingers through the long locks of her hair.


    They had returned back from the party half an hour ago. After freshening up and changing into their sleepwear, the couple was lying down on the bed. Stella had her head resting on his bare chest, her ear pressed against the toned muscles, right over his heart.


    "You should sleep as well. You haven''t slept properly since last week. Do you think I won''t know about your sneaking out of the room after I have slept?" Stella narrowed her eyes at him.


    She had woken up in the middle of the night a few times throughout the last week due to the absence of his warmth. And every single time, she had found him in his study, working on his laptop.


    "I knew you were the one peeping inside the study before leaving after sneaking a glance at me." Adam chuckled lightly.


    "You knew I was there?" Stella asked him, furrowing her delicate brows.


    "Yeah." Adam nodded as his fingers found their way to her face. He moved them over her eyebrows, trying to smoothen the frown. "Why didn''t you come inside?" He asked her.


    "I didn''t want to disturb your work." She replied as rubbed her face over hai chest.


    "You can never disturb me babygirl." Adam added softly as he pressed a kiss on the top of her head. "Sleep now."


    "Don''t go sneaking out of the room today. I can''t sleep without you." She mumbled softly as a yawn escaped her lips.


    "I won''t." Adam heaved out a sigh. If he had known that his absence was disturbing her sleep, he wouldn''t have sneaked out all those nights to finish off his pending work. Even though he made sure to make her hug his pillow before leaving, he didn''t know her sleep would still be disturbed. He had felt someone peeking inside his study a couple of times and thought that she was just checking on him.


    He pressed another kiss against her forehead before closing his own eyes.


    -------------


    "What did you say?" Taylor roared at the man who was standing before him, clad in an all black dress.


    The man didn''t even flinch. Being the main informant for him, he was used to this. He kept standing quietly with his head bowed down in respect.


    "Why is he back? Isn''t he supposed to hate that life just like his father? Why did he took over the reins?" Taylor was still yelling.


    "You shouldn''t have done that Adam Levinson. You shouldn''t have." He spoke to no one in particular before an evil laughter escaped his lips.


    £¬

 Chapter 152 - You Messed With The Wrong People

    "Why am I feeling so hot?" Rachel questioned herself as she entered her room.


    She had already instructed the caretaker of the house to bring Stella up here if she feels unwell since she is her Dad''s god-daughter. She was just here to grab her credit card before going out to a club to celebrate her victory.


    "I should leave before the old lady brings Stella up." She murmured to herself as she grabbed the card and left the room.


    After hailing herself an Uber, which arrived ten minutes later, she left the place and headed to her favorite club, the Golden Corals.


    She sat by the bar counter on the ground floor and ordered herself some vodka shots. With each passing minute, she was feeling more and more uncomfortable. She gulped down one shot as soon as they arrived.


    Her skin was beginning to burn as she felt blood rushing down to her lower body. Beads of sweat were beginning to form on her forehead despite the cold temperature of the bar. She was feeling a hard time breathing as the temperature of her body kept rising. The cold vodka wasn''t helping her. She knew the symptoms all too well. But what made her confused was how it was happening to her. She didn''t take it.


    "Give me some ice chips." She ushered the bartender who nodded and disappeared to fulfill her demand.


    Her thoughts drifted back to the martini that the bartender had served her before she left the banquet.


    "That ba****d spiked my own drink instead of Stella." She cursed the man. She knew that she is going to get a good scolding from Taylor for not getting the work done.


    The bartender placed a glass before her which has some ice chips in it and a spoon as well.


    She uttered a thanks to him before picking up the spoon. She knew that the ice chips won''t do her any good and won''t help her in lowering down her body temperature. The only thing which could help her at the moment was sex, a lot of sex.


    She put down the spoon and took out her phone and dialed Taylor''s number. It continued to ring but he didn''t pick up. She tried a number of times but the call didn''t go through.


    ''He must be busy.'' She thought to herself. She wasn''t calling him to inform him that the plan didn''t work, but rather that she needed him.


    She heaved out a frustrated sigh as her eyes roamed around the bar and the dance floor. She picked up another vodka shot and gulped it down as her eyes locked on a man who was sitting at the other end on the bar counter.


    He had a head full of black hairs. His light blue eyes gleamed under the dim lights of the bar as he leisurely sipped onto his whiskey. His chiseled face and sharp jawline was a sight to behold.


    ''He seems like a good choice.'' She thought inwardly as the corners of her lips turned up into a smirk.


    She picked up her last vodka shot and sauntered over to him.


    "Is this seat taken?" She spoke in a seductive manner, pointing towards the barstool next to him.


    "No." The man replied, his deep husky voice sent tingles in her lower body.


    "Thank you." She uttered a thanks before extending a hand towards him.


    "My name''s Rachel." She introduced herself.


    "I know. You are pretty famous around here." The man replied giving her a charming smile.


    Rachel replied his smile with one of her own. She sneaked a glance at her watch. ''I only have fifteen more minutes before the drug makes me go crazy.''


    The man was about to say something when Rachel interrupted him. "I want to have sex with you, right now."


    The man had his jaw touching the floor at her statement. He composed himself and spoke up. "There''s a hotel next to the club." He stood up and offered his hand to her which she took immediately.


    --------------


    Ten minutes later,


    Two entangled bodies entered the room, stealing each other''s breath away.


    The man shut down the door with force before pushing Rachel against it, without breaking their kiss. Soon clothes began to fly everywhere as lewd moans filled the room.


    -------------


    The sunlight filtered through the curtains falling on his face. His lashes fluttered for a while before he opened his eyes. His gaze fell onto the lady who was wrapped around him like some wine. He untangled himself from her, careful of his moments as not to wake her up.


    He walked to where his clothes were lying on the floor. Looking through his jeans pockets, he finally found his phone and dialled the last number who had called him. A couple of rings later the call was connected through.


    "Why are you disturbing my sleep this early?" A man''s voice came through the speaker.


    "It''s done Boss." The man replied to his boss, keeping his voice low.


    "The recordings of what happened. Do you have it?"


    "Yes, I have. They were sent to you as soon as the activity stopped. I am just about to remove the spy cams."


    "Good. You know the rest of the drill." Saying this, his boss disconnected the call.


    Hearing the beeping sound coming through the speaker the man shook his head sideways before picking up his clothes. He wore and swiftly moved to the places where he had hid the spy cams earlier. He removed each of them and shoved them inside his pocket. He picked his coat before heading towards the door, his steps barely making any sound because of the heavy carpeting in the room.


    He stopped right before the door and turned around, looking at the woman who was sprawled over the bed. The light cream sheet was only covering the lower half of her body, leaving the other half bare.


    The man shook his head sideways, not in pity though.


    "You messed with the wrong people lady. But I must say you were damn good throughout the night." He muttered under his breath before unlocking the door and heading out.

 Chapter 153 - Whats With All Of The Chattering?

    "Good morning, my sunshine." Adam''s deep and mellow voice reached her ears, stirring her up from her deep slumber.


    Stella hummed and greeted him in return without opening her eyes, shifting to her side. "Good morning to you too."


    "Everyone is waiting for you downstairs baby girl. So, get your lazy arse off the bed. It''s already ten in the morning." Adam spoke softly close to her ear.


    "Everyone?" She questioned him in her sleepy voice with her eyes still shut as her eyebrows began to furrow.


    "The four people you invited to our home last night. Or you are too sleepy to even recall that." Adam flicked her forehead, earning a groan from her. "And in case you don''t remember, let me remind you sweetheart. Blake and Lillian came along with us last night." He added.


    "What about the other two?" Stella asked him, stretching her arms in the air.


    "They arrived before I came up." Adam replied to her as he patted the top of her head. "But they came here right away after waking up, so they are hungry."


    "You go ahead, don''t keep them waiting. I will join you guys in fifteen minutes." Stella replied to him as she tried to sit up.


    Adam helped placed his palm on the back of her head before leaning in. He placed his lips on her forehead and kept them there for a while before reluctantly moving them away.


    "Don''t take too long. Okay?" He whispered softly to which Stella nodded.


    "I won''t take much long. You should go downstairs and entertain our guests." Stella cupped his face in between her palms and placed a feather like kiss on his lips.


    Before Adam could register her move and deepen the kiss, she had let go of his face.


    "That wasn''t fair. I was too busy enjoying my morning beauty that I didn''t even feel the kiss. I want another one." Adam pursed his lips and protested.


    "Get your ass downstairs, right now." Stella ordered him before pushing him away slightly as she sauntered towards the bathroom.


    Adam saw her retreating figure and shook his head, the side of his lips raising up the slightest bit. He walked towards their walk-in closet and picked out an outfit for her. It had somehow become a part of his daily routine.


    Stella had a habit of choosing her outfit after she has taken a bath. But now she didn''t have to, for a dress suitable for the weather, would always be placed neatly on the bed every time she comes out. She knew who was behind it, it''s not like it was a secret anyways.


    Adam placed a mint green turtleneck top with long sleeves along with a pair of cream colored cotton pants on the bed before leaving the room.


    ----------


    "What took you so long?" Katherine questioned him as soon as he entered the dining room. "You went there to wake her up or to help her in getting ready?"


    "If I were to help her with that, do you think I would have been here at this moment?" Adam replied to her with a smug expression as he sat down.


    "As if she would let you." Katherine added before picking up a toast from the table.


    "At least I didn''t have to hide my Identity from her." Adam scoffed before he gave Scott a side eye.


    "Hey, man! Why are you dragging me in between your argument?" Scott hurriedly added, raising his hands up in the air.


    "Because your girl is messing with his."  Blake chided in, pointing towards Katherine and then to Adam.


    "I didn''t ask you man." Scott raised an eyebrow at him.


    "Who are you calling his girl?" Katherine interrupted, pointing her fork towards her twin brother.


    "There''s only you besides Lillian here. She''s mine. So who''s left to be called his?" Blake retorted as he dug into his omelette.


    "And I saw what you guys were doing in the corridor." Lillian finally butted in. "You couldn''t keep your hands off of each other, could you?" She smirked as she recalled the scene from earlier.


    She had left her phone in the living room when her and Blake were heading towards the dining room. She had asked Blake to go to the dining room and excused herself. On her way back, her eyes fell on two entangled bodies, crazily kissing and sucking each other''s breath away. Not wanting to disturb their intimate moment, she had sneaked out of there stealthily.


    "Y-y-you¡­. You were there?" It was Katherine who broke the silence that had dawned on the table.


    "Yeah! And I saw enough to taint my eyes." Lillian replied to her, her lips curling up into a smirk.


    "No need to discuss it on the table, especially when I am trying to eat something here." Scott interrupted the ladies as he poked the piece of French toast sitting on his plate.


    "He''s right. I don''t want my innocent mind to be clouded with the dark thoughts on how you guys make out." Adam agreed with Scott.


    "What''s with all of the chattering? I could hear you guys down the hallway." Stella spoke up as she entered the hall, making everyone''s attention turn towards her. She greeted everyone before she took her seat, right next to Adam.


    "We were just talking about how long will you take to get your pretty little ass here." Katherine replied to her.


    "More like how Katherine and Scott were making out on their way here." Lillian spoke up as she winked at Katherine, earning a scowl from her.


    Stella just shook her head sideways at their childish behavior. Ignoring them, she turned to face Adam, her eyes landing on the empty ceramic plate before him. Everyone was eating something while he sat here quietly, not touching the food at all.


    Stella knew he must have been waiting for her. His small yet sweet gesture made her heart melt as her eyes turned gentle, brimming with tenderness as she gazed at him.


    She picked up the closest dish her hands could reach and served him some omelette.

 Chapter 154 - A Surprise Trip (1)

    "Where are we going?" Stella asked Adam as he was packing a few of their clothes and belongings in a backpack.


    "You will know when we get there." Adam replied, he was still focused on packing.


    "Why are you always so secretive?" Stella pursed her lips in a pout, furrowing her eyebrows at the same time.


    Adam stopped what he was doing and looked up at her. She was sitting on the bed with her back leaning against the headboard. She was still wearing the clothes from this morning, the ones he had chosen for her. He sauntered over to her, his every step soft yet firm on the ground. He gazed lovingly at her face.


    "I love the look of surprise on your face baby girl. The way your lips curled up in a radiating smile, showing off your teeth. The way your eyes become slit like when you smile. The way they glow with joy and amazement. The way you look at me in complete awe and adoration. I love to see all of these on your pretty little face babygirl." He sat down next to her and cupped her left cheek.


    Stella leaned her face into his palm. She could feel a soothing feeling spreading through her body starting from her cheek where his calloused fingers rested.


    "I can wait a little longer." She murmured softly as a faint blush tinted her cheeks.


    "Good." He added before placing a kiss on her other cheek.


    "What about Blake and Katherine? Have they seen the place before?" Stella asked him before getting off the bed.


    "Yeah. Katherine has seen it twice or thrice i guess. And me and Blake used to hang around the place a lot more." Adam replied to her.


    "Wear something warm, but not too warm." Adam added when he saw her heading to the walk-in closet.


    "Alright." Stella replied to him before disappearing into the closet.


    ------------


    Three black luxury cars pulled before a mansion after two hours. From each car, a couple stepped down.


    "Woah." Stella looked at the huge mansion before her.


    "We will see this later on. We have to be somewhere else at the moment." Adam spoke up, interrupting her thoughts.


    Stella nodded her head in agreement and started to walk alongside him. She turned her head around to look at the mansion one more time. Her eyes accidentally fell on the golden plate that was fixated on the white wall, next to the door. The words ''The Levinsons'' was engraved in it in cursive writing, which glimmered in the dark as the pale yellow lights shone over it.


    The six people walked towards the back of the mansion with Adam leading the way. From the back of the mansion, they headed further in what looked like a man made forest, following a stoney pathway.


    Walking deep inside the forest, the trees began to thin a little as a wooden hut can be seen in the distance. The stoney path ended a couple of metres away from the hut.


    The ground was covered by freshly cut green grass. A couple of chairs were placed around a wooden table in the center.


    Adam led the others inside the hut. A vast living room could be seen as soon as they walked in. Four maroon couches were placed around the room with a small table placed before each of them. Light pale white lights lit up the room. A few logs of wood were placed in the fire place which was lit, the burning fire gave the room a dim golden hue. Six cups of coffee were placed on one of the tables, the steam was still blowing off from them, indicating that they were just served.


    Stella was a bit confused as she didn''t see anyone on their way, but decided to shrug it off. She knew better than anyone how good his staff was back at home. It was obvious that the staff here must be the same in regards to their efficiency, if not better.


    Each of them picked up a cup after putting down their backpacks. Blake and Lillian settled on ime couch while Scott and Katherine on the other.


    Stella sat down on the couch which was closer to the fireplace as compared to the rest. She looked at Adam who walked towards a closet which was in one corner of the room. He picked out a black colored bag from it and walked towards Stella.


    Stella gazed at the bag which was in the shape of a guitar, her eyebrows furrowed in confusion as she looked into his eyes.


    "You know how to play a guitar." She spoke up, her voice as soft as the wind that was blowing outside.


    Adam didn''t reply to her and settled at the other end of the couch. He unzipped the bag and took out a dark brown colored guitar. He held it with one hand and turned the tuners a bit before checking the strings, making sure they were taut enough to produce the right pitch. He leaned back against the couch, crossing his right leg over the left one. He rested the guitar over his lap, holding the neck in his left hand while the fingers of his right hand began to pluck the strings.


    He plucked each string a couple of times before stopping.


    He raised his eyes and looked at Stella, his gray orbs colliding with her hazel ones. The corners of his lips turned up as he cleared his throat. His fingers began to pluck the strings, creating a soft melody as the fire cackled in the background.

 Chapter 155 - A Surprise Trip (2)

    He raised his eyes and looked at Stella, his gray orbs colliding with her hazel ones. The corners of his lips turned up as he cleared his throat. His fingers began to pluck the strings, creating a soft melody as the fire cackled in the background.


    With the strings vibrating acoustically through the air, producing sound, he began to sing "Just The Way You Are" by "Bruno Mars".


    **Oh, her eyes, her eyes make the stars look like they''re not shinin''


    Her hair, her hair falls perfectly without her trying


    She''s so beautiful and I tell her everyday


    Yeah, I know, I know when I compliment her she won''t believe me


    And it''s so, it''s so sad to think that she don''t see what I see


    But every time she asks me "Do I look okay?"


    I say''**


    He shifted his gaze towards Stella, who was looking at him with her eyes widened in shock as his soothing voice reached her ears, cutting through the calm air coming inside the room from one of of the opened windows, vibrating through her entire body. The corners of his lips tugged upwards as he continued to sing, still holding her gaze.


    **When I see your face


    There''s not a thing that I would change ''cause you''re amazing


    Just the way you are


    And when you smile


    The whole world stops and stares for a while


    ''Cause girl you''re amazing


    Just the way you are


    Yeah**


    The movements of his fingers over the strings were like magic, his deep yet mellow voice strucking the chords of her heart, engulfing her in his calming warmth.


    **Her lips, her lips, I could kiss them all day if she''d let me


    Her laugh, her laugh she hates but I think it''s so sexy


    She''s so beautiful, and I tell her everyday


    Oh you know, you know, you know I''d never ask you to change


    If perfect''s what you''re searching for then just stay the same


    So don''t even bother asking if you look okay, you know I''ll say**


    Stella couldn''t break away from his gaze. She was always mesmerized by his gray eyes. They were as deep as the ocean, holding an entire world within them.


    **When I see your face


    There''s not a thing that I would change


    ''Cause you''re amazing


    Just the way you are


    And when you smile


    The whole world stops and stares for a while


    ''Cause, girl, you''re amazing


    Just the way you are


    The way you are


    The way you are


    Girl, you''re amazing


    Just the way you are


    When I see your face


    There''s not a thing that I would change


    ''Cause you''re amazing


    Just the way you are


    And when you smile


    The whole world stops and stares for a while


    ''Cause, girl, you''re amazing


    Just the way you are


    Yeah**


    He brought his fingers to an abrupt halt as the lyrics of the song ended. He was still looking at her, more like gazing, as if she was the most interesting thing in this world, which she was for him. Scratch that. She was his entire world.


    Their staring contest was interrupted by the sound of applause. Reluctantly tearing their gaze away from the other, both of them turned to look at the other four people in the room. During the entire time Adam was singing, Stella had forgotten about the fact that they were there as well.


    ''It''s not my fault that his voice is so captivating.'' She thought to herself before something dawned on her, making her frown. She didn''t voice out her thoughts but rather excused herself before getting up from the couch and headed towards the door.


    As she closed the door after getting out, four pairs of eyes turned towards Adam, questioning him silently. He heaved out a sigh before putting down his guitar and followed her out. He had an idea of what might have upset her out of the blue.


    He walked out to find her sitting on the grass, her knees were folded before her as she hugged them. Her head was tilted back as she gazed up at the sky. He didn''t know whether it was the moon or the stars she was staring at. Little did he know that it wasn''t the stars which were shimmering in the distance of the crescent moon which was plaguing her mind, rather it was him.


    He walked up to her and sat down, folding his legs before him just like her.


    "Dad used to tell me how much Mom loved to play guitar and sing. He had some recordings of her songs which he used to play in my room to lull me to sleep. He wasn''t a good singer himself, more like tone deaf." He chuckled softly as if remembering something. "I grew up listening to her voice and seeing her play guitar. The way her fingers moved over the strings as if it was a part of her, it made me want to learn how to play a guitar. As for singing, it came to me naturally, may be I got it from Mom."


    He paused. He was gazing at her, as she was busy staring at the cloudless sky above their heads. He heaved out a sigh before continuing. "That guitar you saw me playing, is actually my Mom''s. I have kept it in the same condition as it was then. That guitar and singing is the only connection I have with her. But when died, I stopped playing. Not that I didn''t get the time to, but I didn''t feel like doing it. It wasn''t the same when he was not there sitting before me, listening to all those Mom''s favorite songs. I haven''t played in four years. The only time I touched that guitar in this time was when I had to send it for it''s half yearly maintenance."


    "Stella?" He called her softly. Placing a finger under her chin, he made her face him. "You made me play again today baby girl. Thank you for that." He smiled at her.


    Stella jumped right his arms, making him fall on his back as he wasn''t prepared for the sudden attack.


    "I am sorry." She murmured against his neck as she buried her face there.


    "What are you sorry for silly? I should be the one to apologise. I know you don''t know everything about me, and it''s hard for you. But we have the rest of our lives to get to know each other better." He rubbed her back softly.

 Chapter 156 - Step Up His Game

    "What are you sorry for silly? I should be the one to apologise. I know you don''t know everything about me, and it''s hard for you. But we have the rest of our lives to get to know each other better." He rubbed her back softly.


    "I made you talk about the past." Stella replied to him in a meek voice.


    Adam could feel the wetness of her tears in the crook of his neck. He softly patted the top of her. "You made me play again. That is what matters more."


    "I love you." Stella muttered under her breath.


    "I love you too baby girl. Now stop with the crying. You know seeing you like this hurts me so much." Adam added as he tightened his hold around her.


    ----------


    "They are good." Blake spoke up as he made his way back to the couch. He was worried about them, so as soon as Adam walked out, he made his way to the window which was facing the garden. He couldn''t hear what they were talking about, but judging from their hugging bodies lying on the grass, he could tell that everything was fine.


    "I told you that they will be fine." Lillian added as she scrolled through her mobile phone. "You always overthink."


    "Sorry for worrying about my best friend and his girlfriend, who for the record, is like a little sister for me." Blake glared at her.


    "Okay, okay." She added, still not looking up his phone.


    "I just can''t see either of them sad." Blake spoke up before turning his attention towards his twin sister.


    "How did you two end up together?" He questioned her. "You never told me that."


    "Actually, we¡­." Katherine was about to reply him but Scott interrupted her.


    "I ran into her into her at Sparkle. Spilled her coffee over her white blouse, and then one thing led to another." Scott replied as he pulled her closer to himself.


    "She doesn''t drink coffee when she''s in Sparkle for the very same reason. Just saying." Blake shrugged as his lips tugged up slightly in a playful smirk.


    Scott looked at Katherine who was trying to control the laughter which was threatening to break through her pursed lips. She looked up at him and winked. "You should have let me talk."


    "Next time, you are doing the talking." He whispered softly before kissing the tip of her nose.


    ---------


    Next morning,


    After getting all freshened up and dressed in a pair of black jean shorts with a loose white sweatshirt, Stella walked out of her room and headed towards the garden. A maid had come earlier to inform her that the breakfast will be served outside in the main garden when she was busy blow-drying her hair. Adam was nowhere to be found when she woke up, but as always there was a note left for her, informing her that he would meet her on the breakfast table.


    After spending another hour at the hut, they had returned to the main mansion for their dinner, retiring to sleep afterwards.


    "Good morning everyone." Stella greeted them. Almost everyone was present at the table except for the man who had written her the note.


    "Where''s Adam?" She asked, looking at everyone.


    "He is busy with a video conference." Blake replied to him, making her frown.


    Although the breakfast was already served, she decided to wait for him. It''s not like she could eat anyways knowing that he was attending a video conference, that too on a weekend. She decided to finally pay attention to the exterior of the mansion.


    Under the bright sunlight, the white walls of the mansion stood tall and broad. Two white pillars supported the archway which led to the main entrance where a huge dark brown wooden door can be seen. Vines of Bougainvillea ''California Gold'' climbed up the two pillars. The Vines were adorned with clusters of warm yellow, papery bracts, adding a tinge of a tinge of a golden hue to their plain white surroundings.


    The golden plate with family name engraved in it, was right next to the huge door, bedazzling under the bright daylight.


    The main garden had a dome shaped marble canopy where they were sitting. The dark wood round table occupied by five people at the moment could easily fit twenty people. There were different kinds of trees and shrubs bearing flowers planted around the periphery. It had a jogging track, the same one they walked down to last night, but it was divided into different directions, one of which led to the hut.


    Stella wondered how many workers this place needed for keeping it this clean and where were they as she had only encountered with a maid, the one who had come to inform her.


    She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn''t realize the chair next to her was pushed back and someone sat on it.


    "Good morning, sunshine." Adam greeted her, placing a light kiss on the crown of her head.


    His voice brought her out of her thoughts. She turned to her right to face him.


    "Good morning." She beamed at him. "How did the conference go?" She asked him as she picked up the tray of croissants.


    "Let me." He took the tray from her and continued. "It went okay. I will fill you in after breakfast."


    "So, do you like it here?" Adam asked her as he placed a stuffed croissant on her plate.


    "It''s beautiful Adam." She replied.


    "I will show you the rest of it after our breakfast. If you like it enough, we can come over once or twice in a month in the future." He added as he served two for himself.


    Stella could feel the blood rushing to her cheeks at the mention of future. In the little span of time, they had grown impossibly close to each other. Now, when she thought about it, she couldn''t help but blush as nervousness began to spread through her body.


    "Sure." It was the only thing she managed to speak under his burning gaze.


    Adam pursed his lips, trying to stifle his smile. He knew what was going through her mind. And to think of it, he needed to step up his game.

 Chapter 157 - Cecilia Aldrich

    "I missed you so much, Mom." Benjamin spoke up as he engulfed a woman, who was in her early forties, in a bear hug.


    "I missed you too, my pumpkin." The woman added, returning the hug.


    "You need to stop calling me that. I am no longer a kid, Mom."


    "You will always be a kid for me." The woman replied before letting go of him.


    "Dad wanted to come as well but he was busy." Benjamin spoke up, giving her a sad smile.


    "Yeah, yeah. I know." The woman replied to him, patting his shoulder.


    "Take Mom''s luggage and put it in the car." Benjamin ordered the driver who was standing behind him.


    "Welcome back, Madam." The driver greeted her, which was acknowledged by a nod, before taking her luggage and carrying it out to the car.


    "You want to eat at home or we can go out if you want to." Benjamin asked her, placing an arm over her shoulder as they walked out of the airport.


    "I am too tired to go out. Just ask the cook to make something light for me." She added before getting inside the car.


    "Sure, I will call Aunt Mary." He replied before joining her in the car. He took out his phone and dialed the housekeeper''s number.


    The woman turned to look out of the tinted window as the car rolled out of the parking lot. Though she was forty, she didn''t look a year older than thirty. Her smooth, fair skin were free of all those wrinkles which a woman of her age should have. Her black hair were let down, framing her face. The was little to no make up over her face, her lips were tinted with a nude lip color. Her feline eyes looked sharp as she gazed out of the window. The way she sat with her back straight and her shoulders pushed back slightly, depicted how audacious of a personality she had. It was instilled in her since her childhood. She was brought up this way, to always held her head high up in the air because she was Cecilia Aldrich, the only daughter of the Aldrich family.


    Her marriage to James was just an affiliation between the two families, it wasn''t out of love. She didn''t even meet him in person before their engagement ceremony. She was regretting it now, agreeing to her parents'' wishes. She was regretting not listening to Ethan, her childhood friend and James'' cousin. He had warned her that James wasn''t good for her, but she didn''t listen to him. She should have, she should have listened to him and put her foot down on the matter.


    Even after all these years, their marriage was still just for show. She knew that he still slept around like before, but decided to turn a blind eye to it. She would have let that place way back if it wasn''t for her only son. She didn''t want him to grow up in a broken family.


    "How was your trip Mom?" Benjamin''s voice interrupted her thoughts.


    "It was good. Dad said he misses you a lot. You should go and pay him a visit." She replied to him.


    "I miss him too. I wanted to go with you so badly but you know how things have been at the company." He added. "But they are going to get better now that we have signed a contract with the Levinson''s Corp."


    "You did what?" She asked him, not believing her ears.


    Benjamin chuckled as he looked at her baffled expression before he explained it to her.


    After listening to him, she slowly nodded her head but she still had some doubts lingering in her mind. Why would Adam Levinson do it? She took out her phone from her purse and texted her company''s Vice President, asking him to look deep into the matter.


    -----------


    "Thank you Mary for the lunch. I will go and rest now." After getting done with her lunch she headed upstairs to her room. She had transformed one of the guest rooms in her own after getting fed up of his husband''s drinking habit.


    She had changed into some comfortable clothes before lunch after taking a shower. Lying down on the bed, she picked up her phone and dialled a number. He picked up after the first ring, just like always.


    "You are back." She heard his voice coming through the phone''s speaker. "You should have informed me, I could have picked you up."


    Hearing his gruff voice brought a smile on her lips. "Benjamin picked me up." She replied.


    She heard him hum in response. "I missed you bossing me around Cecilia." There was a longing in his voice with which was all to familiar with. She knew he fancied her, but never voiced it out directly because she was a married woman.


    ''And I missed bossing you around.'' She thought to herself but didn''t voice it out. She knew it would only make things difficult for her.


    "I saw your text. You had something important to tell me." She asked him after staying quiet for a while.


    "She''s in Berlin, acting as the personal assistant of Adam Levinson." He replied to her making her get up from the bed with a jolt.


    "What did you say?" She asked him.


    "You heard me right. And I don''t think that she being his assistant and your so called husband''s company getting a contract from his company is a coincidence. Especially combined with the fact that Stella is his girlfriend." He explained it to her.


    "What!" Cecilia was having a shock for the nth time since she had landed.


    After getting her thoughts straight, she cleared her throat and spoke into the phone''s speaker. "Zach?" She called his name softly for the first time.


    "Yes?"


    "Get the papers for my divorce ready as soon as possible." She spoke softly, totally opposite of her usual self.


    "Yes, Ma''am." He replied before disconnecting the call. She could her happiness in his voice and shook her head sideways.


    She wanted to leave James after Benjamin had taken over the Vice President''s role. The only thing which was making her stay back at this hell hole was her niece, Stella Martin. She had been looking for her all these years. She was confused as why didn''t Ethan and Rosaline choose James and her to be her guardians in case anything happens to them. James was after all Stella''s only uncle, and she would have treated her as her own daughter, even better than that. And she was sure that Ethan knew that as well. Then why did he do that. Why would he leave the business he had worked so hard for in the hands of his cousin.


    All these questions had driven her crazy all these years. Now, she can finally get the answers to them and pursue her own happiness. She smiled looking at the name popping on her phone''s screen. She wasn''t worried for Stella that much now because she knew that she was safe as long as Adam was by her side.

 Chapter 158 - Sixteen Generations

    "What about his daughter''s shares?" Taylor asked the man sitting before him.


    "Her shares are under me, but I can''t sell those or transfer them to anyone else. Ethan wasn''t stupid enough to just give them to me, he made sure that they were under her name and no body except for her would be able to sell those." James replied as he picked up the coffee mug from the table.


    Taylor hummed as he became lost in his own thoughts. "What about yours?" He spoke up after a while.


    "Mine aren''t that much. Ethan gave half of his shares to me which were around thirty percent of the total shares. The remaining of his shares and his wife''s shares were transferred under Stella''s name, making me her guardian. The only reason I could still control her shares is that she hasn''t returned yet. Her shares alone only make up sixty percent in total." James explained it to him.


    "Who said she hasn''t returned?" Taylor added, taking a sip of his coffee leisurely.


    "What do you mean?" James narrowed his eyes at him.


    "You should have kept her under your wing, within your sight. You could have easily controlled her then. But no, you decided to put her in some foster family, whom you paid a huge amount of money. Where did that lead to? Her running away from there and you couldn''t even track her now!" Taylor replied lazily.


    James eyes widened in shock when Taylor''s words made their way to his ears, cutting through the quiet air of his of the room. He wondered how did Taylor know all this.


    "Don''t wreck your brain as for how I know all of this. What you need to think of is how to stay away from her, since she''s back in Berlin. Don''t try to harm her if you want to live whatever days you have left. And her shares belong to her and her alone they will." Taylor completed his words before getting up and leaving James alone in the private room with his thoughts.


    He came here to make sure that this fool didn''t do anything to harm her. He was worried to hell and back when he came to know that Adam visited this company along with her.


    -----------


    "Young Master is calling you Miss." An elderly woman came inside the room and informed Stella.


    "Just call me Stella, please." Stella got up from the bed, making her way towards the old lady. "You must be the caretaker of this place." She spoke up softly, coming to a stop before her.


    "But¡­" The old lady began to reply but was interrupted by Stella.


    "No buts." Stella gave her a wide smile. "May I know your name?" She asked the old lady.


    "It''s Judith but you can call me Judy." The old lady replied to her politely.


    "Alright, Aunt Judy. Lead the way, please." Stella added.


    The old lady smiled at her and began to guide her. She was touched by her kindness. She was almost sixty years old now and had been taking care of this mansion since her late twenties. She had seen enough of the world to differentiate between good and bad people. And she was sure that this girl here walking next to her, was definitely a good one. She was genuinely very happy for her Young Master.


    "He''s in there." She stopped before a room and told Stella before turning around to leave.


    "Thank you. Stella thanked her and entered the room.


    As soon as she stepped inside, she was awestruck by the interior of the room. The room was decorated as if it belonged to a royal palace. Every wall of the room was painted maroon. Golden frames with intricate carvings, were hung over them, each frame encasing a painted portrait. Some of them were of single people, while the others were of couples or families. The room looked more like an art gallery.


    Stella walked further in the room with slow steps. Her eyes were glinting under the warm lighting of the room as she walked towards one of the paintings.


    "There you are." Adam interrupted her thoughts. He had his eyes set on her since the moment she had walked in. Her awestruck expressions were something he wouldn''t want to miss at any cost. He had been staring at her for a while. He reluctantly interrupted her as she was busy admiring one of the paintings.


    "This is so beautiful, Adam." She spoke up before shifting her eyes back to the painting.


    "This room has almost sixteen generations of my family." He added.


    "That''s¡­ that''s amazing." Stella spoke up, breaking her gaze away from the painting.


    "It is." Adam nodded her head as he extended his hand towards her. "Come with me. I want to show you something."


    Stella put her hand in his palm and let him guide her. After crossing a number of paintings, his steps came to a halt before one, which was the last one in the same row  Stella shifted her gaze from his face to the painting.


    She stared at the painting for a while before turning her face towards Adam, who was staring at the painting without even blinking.


    Adam finally opened his mouth after a couple of minutes. "They are¡­."


    "Your parents." Stella finished his sentence. Based on the similarities between him the couple in the painting, even a child could tell that.


    Adam hummed in response, his lips curling up in a faint smile. Stella could see the longing on his face. He missed them, just like she did hers. She couldn''t take it anymore and hugged him, resting her face on his chest with her ear pressed right over his heart.


    "I am fine, love." He spoke up as if sensing her worries. He slowly patted her back before engulfing in a hug. "Do you see that empty frame next to this painting?" He continued.


    Stella shifted her eyes to the frame and nodded her head.


    "Everytime a son or a daughter is born, the parents put up a frame next to theirs for them. My parents chose this frame together when Mom was expecting me. Who knew they wouldn''t make it to see it encasing my portrait." He continued, making Stella tighten her hold around him.


    "Do you like the frame? If not then we can get a new one. I am thinking of getting our portrait done soon." His words struck a chord in her heart. She knew what he meant by those words. A smile bloomed over her face as she replied to him. "I love the frame."

 Chapter 159 - Exhausted

    A black Maybach stopped in the underground parking.


    "You alright sweetheart?" Adam asked Stella as they stepped out of his car.


    "Yeah. I am just feeling a little dizzy." She replied to him as she leaned her side on the car for support.


    Adam made his way to her and held her by her waist. "I told you to stay back at home, but you never listen to me." He reprimanded her.


    They came back from the mansion late last night and couldn''t get enough sleep. He was used to working without getting much sleep but he was worried for her. So, he didn''t wake her up in the morning. But when he came out after taking a bath and changing into a suit, she was already up.


    He had tried talking her into staying back at home, but she didn''t listen to him and accompanied him to the office. Moreover, she didn''t even eat her breakfast properly.


    "Let''s get you to a doctor." Adam spoke up as he began to guide her back into the car.


    "Adam?" Stella stopped him by pulling his elbow back. "There''s no need to a hospital. I was just feeling a bit dizzy. It must be due to hypoglycemia since I didn''t eat much of my breakfast. I will go and grab something from the cafeteria upstairs, and eat it. I will be completely fine."


    "I am not listening to you on this one. I said we are going to the hospital, it means we are." Adam narrowed his eyes at her.


    A sigh escaped her lips in defeat as she gave into his demands and got inside the car.


    After helping her settle in and securing her seat belt, Adam made his way to the driver''s side and got inside as well. He connected his phone to the car''s system and dialed Bella''s number before driving the car out of the parking lot.


    After a few rings, the call was connected through.


    "Good morning, Sir." Her soft voice came through the speakers.


    "Morning, Bella. Stella isn''t feeling well, so I am taking her to the hospital. Ask Vice President Robert to handle the meeting for me, please." Adam replied to her greeting and spoke up.


    "I will do that, Sir." Bella replied took a brief pause before continuing. "Is she okay?"


    Adam could send the worry in her tone just like Stella herself.


    "I am alright. You don''t need to worry about. I was just dizzy for a while, that''s all. Adam is just over reacting." Stella replied to her.


    "That''s great. Look after yourself and please listen to Sir. There is nothing wrong with getting yourself checked. He''s just concerned about your health." Bella replied to her before bidding her goodbye and disconnecting the call.


    "Even she can tell that, and here you are." Adam made a sarcastic remark as he turned the steering wheel of the car.


    Stella gave him a glance from the corner of her eye before leaning her head against the headrest and closed her eyes, deciding to ignore him.


    Twenty minutes later, Adam pulled up the car before a hospital building. He turned to look at the girl next to him, only to find her sleeping. Looking at her peaceful expression, he didn''t have the heart to wake her up. After parking the car, he got out and walked to the other side. Taking off her seatbelt, he picked her up in his arms and walked towards the entrance.


    -----------


    "Is she okay?" Adam asked the doctor when as soon as he was done reading her charts from the file.


    "Yes, she''s fine. She was just exhausted." The doctor replied, looking at Stella who was sleeping peacefully.


    "Are you sure? She hasn''t woken up for once since she fell asleep in the car. It''s been more than an hour." Adam asked the doctor again as he looked at the I.V line that was inserted in her left hand.


    "Can you please have some faith in me man?" The doctor replied, raising an eyebrow at him. One could tell that the two of them were close.


    "Do I look like your everyday doctor? Normal people cannot even get an appointment with me. Those who can, have to wait for a month. Just so I could take a look at their reports." He continued, pushing the black rimmed glasses slightly up over his nose.


    He had a head full of light brown hairs which complemented his slightly bronzed skin. A pair of orbs of the same shade, looked at Adam as if mocking him. He was wearing a white doctor''s coat over his clothes with a stethoscope hanging around his neck.


    "Okay, okay. I am just worried about her." Adam replied as he sat down on the stool next to the bed. Adam knew that despite his young age, he was someone who excelled in his field. He was one of the best doctors of Germany.


    "You are whipped man." The doctor shook his head sideways, pitying him.


    "Coming back to her, she''s fine for now. Her body is exhausted and she hasn''t been eating properly, that''s all. She''s just sleeping. We will run some more tests when she wakes up. Let her rest for now." He replied before placing her file down.


    "I have a surgery scheduled, so I will leave now. Give me a call when she wakes or inform my assistant doctor if I am busy with the surgery." The doctor added.


    "Thanks for your time man. I know how busy you usually are. I will let you know once she wakes up." Adam replied to him.


    "It''s no big deal. Anything for you and your girl." The doctor spoke up. "See you later then." He continued before leaving the duo alone in the room.


    Adam shifted his gaze back to his girl after the door closed. His heart ached looking at her frail condition. He picked up her right hand and held it in between his palms before leaning his face toward it. His lips placed a kiss on the back of her hand. His lips lingered there for a few seconds before he moved them away. He wouldn''t like to disturb her sleep.

 Chapter 160 - Dr. Wilson Streiner

    Stella opened her eyes slowly before blinking them a couple of times, giving them time to adjust to the bright lights of the room. She looked at the ceiling in confusion before shifting her gaze to the beeping monitor next to her hospital bed. She could see a number of wires attached to her body which were keeping a check on her vitals. An I.V line was attached to her left hand, injecting a colorless liquid in her body.


    Slowly, the realization began to dawn on her. ''I must have slept on the way here.'' She thought to herself. Her eyes began to roam around the room to look for her beloved. Depending on how much she knew him, there was no way he would leave her alone for even a minute. And just like she predicted, she saw him sitting on a stool next to her bed. His face was resting on the hospital bed next to hand which was locked in his tight grasp.


    Seeing him like that broke her heart. How tired he must have been to fall asleep like this? She tried to take back her hand, but his hold on it was too strong. She couldn''t even move it the slightest bit. Giving up on it, she looked at her other hand. She looked at the length of the I.V line, which was long enough to reach to the other side of the hospital bed without shifting the needle out of her vein.


    She slowly moved her hand to the other side and placed it over his head and began to run her fingers through his smooth hair. She sometimes wondered what made his hair so silky. She didn''t see any sort of hair conditioner in his vanity. May be they were naturally like that.


    Feeling the little amount of movements in his hair, Adam stirred up and moved his head up swiftly.


    "Easy there, you might get a whiplash." Stella chuckled softly.


    "Are you feeling alright? Should I call the doctor?" Adam spoke up hastily, not paying attention to her earlier words.


    "I am alright Adam. Will you please relax?" Stella fought against the urge to smack him on his head. She didn''t want the needle to move out or within her vein.


    "Looks like our sleeping princess is finally up." A voice interrupted them as the door to the room opened.


    Stella snapped her head in the direction and saw a doctor standing in the doorway.


    "How are you feeling Stella?" He asked her as he made his way towards the bed.


    "She''s feeling okay, but you should check her up." Adam replied to him.


    "Do you want me to treat her or not man?" The doctor snapped at him.


    "Why do you think I called you up?" Adam narrowed his eyes at him.


    "Then you better shut up because I hate it when people interrupt when I am talking to my patient. I am asking her and she will answer me herself."


    "Okay, okay." Adam replied to him and decided to sit back quietly.


    "So, where we were? Let me introduce myself first. I am your doctor, Wilson Streiner. But you can just call me Wilson, sister-in-law." The doctor introduced himself with a cheeky smile. "So, how are you feeling?"


    Stella was stunned for a while on the way she was being addressed. She shook her head slightly, before she began to speak up. "I am feeling fine. I think I was just tired and needed some rest."


    "You are right about it. But other than rest, you need some nourishment and water too. A nurse took some of your blood when you lovebirds were sleeping to run some tests. You don''t drink enough water apparently. And I also needed to make sure that you were pregnant or not." Wilson added.


    "We use protection, Wilson." Adam interrupted him.


    "Have you ever read what it says on the box?" Wilson raised an eyebrow at him. "They don''t guarantee 100% that you won''t fall pregnant."


    "Well, coming back to you." He pointed at Stella. "You aren''t pregnant. But you need to look after yourself. I will prescribe you some supplements. Take them regularly for three months, then you can stop. And you can be discharged after that saline is finished." He said the last part, pointing towards the drip.


    Adam''s phone buzzed, interrupting them. He looked at it and excused himself. "It''s Parker. I need to attend the call. I will be back in a while." He kissed the top of Stella''s head before making his way out of the room.


    "What was stressing you so much that made you forget to look after yourself sister-in-law?" Wilson asked her once he saw the door being shut.


    Before Stella could reply, he spoke up again as he sat on the stool that was previously occupied by Adam. "By the way, I am Adam''s cousin from his maternal family. I am four years older than him, though he doesn''t treat me like that."


    "Oh." Stella looked at him with wide eyes, making him chuckle.


    "He doesn''t talk about his maternal family much. I know that already. So, it''s alright. I am the only person he can tolerate from his maternal family." Wilson chuckled a little more.


    "Since you are his family, can I ask for your help?" Stella spoke up as she tried to get up.


    Wilson got up and stopped her. "Don''t move." He picked up the remote and elevated the upper half of the bed. After setting her pillows behind her back, he sat back again.


    "Thank you." Stella gave him a polite smile.


    "You are Adam''s family now, which makes you mine as well, and Family don''t thank each other." Wilson added with a wink. "So what do you need my help with?"


    "There''s this thing, but I want you to keep it a secret from Adam. Could you do that, please Wilson?" Stella gave him a pleading look.


    "Well, I think I could keep a secret for my sister-in-law." Wilson replied, giving her a cheeky smile.

 Chapter 161 - You Havent Told Her Yet

    "Young Master?" The old butler mumbled when he saw Adam''s car being pulled before the front porch. He was about to call him when a servant came and informed him about his arrival.


    Adam stepped out of the car and made his way around the car and opened the passenger seat door. Before Stella''s feet could touch the ground, Adam stopped her and picked her up. Even when she tried to resist, he didn''t listen to her.


    As he was carrying her inside, the old butler greeted the duo before showing his concerns about Stella.


    "Is the Young Miss alright?" The old butler asked. His forehead was creased, showing three deep horizontal lines. At some point, he had started to refer her as the Young Miss of this house, even though she was against it.


    "I am completely fine Uncle Rob. You don''t need to worry about me. Adam is over reacting, just like always." Stella replied to him, giving him a bright smile.


    The old butler heaved out a sigh of relief before he came to the main topic. "I was about to call you, Young Master. There''s a lady who is currently waiting for you. She said she has something important to talk about to both of you."


    "Did she tell you her name?" Adam asked him.


    "Cecilia Aldrich." The old butler replied.


    "What is she doing here? I don''t even know her." Adam frowned as he looked at Stella, who shrugged her shoulders.


    "Don''t you know her?" Stella asked him as he began to walk towards the stairs.


    "I know about her and her family. don''t know her in person." Adam replied. "I will take you to the room first. You should have some rest."


    "But Uncle Rob said she wanted to talk to both of us. And I have had ample of rest in the hospital." Stella argued with him. "Either you carry me to the living room yourself, or put me down this instance." She glared at him.


    Adam looked at the little kitten in his arms who was trying to act all fierce and sighed. He could never win against her.


    "Don''t move, or you will fall. I will take you there." He replied to her as he changed the direction he was walking in.


    "To what do we owe the pleasure of your company?" Adam spoke up as he walked in with Stella. He had one of his hands shoved inside his pants'' pocket, while the other one rested on Stella''s lower back. She had forced him to put her down before entering the room. And like always, he gave into her demands.


    "Are you alright, my child?" The lady who was clad in a black shirt and wide-legged trousers asked as she stood up from the couch. Her eyes were fixated at Stella with concern written all over her face.


    "Umm¡­. Do I know you?" Stella was utterly confused as to why this lady, who she had no links to and whom she had never met before in her entire life, would show concern for her.


    "Unfortunately, you don''t." Cecilia sighed with a pained expression on her face.


    "Have a seat, please." Adam asked her politely, to which she complied and sat on the single sofa chair. After Cecilia had settled down, Adam guided Stella to sit on the couch across her before he sat down next to her. All this while, he didn''t move his hand that was resting on Stella''s lower back. Somehow, he was having a bad hunch about this meeting.


    "Would you like to have something to drink or eat?" Adam asked her politely, not forgetting his manners.


    "No. Your housekeeper already asked me that. I am not here for some food or drinks." Cecilia replied.


    "Then why are you here?" Adam asked her with a straight face. He had a hint about what it might be about. Who didn''t know that with whom Cecilia Aldrich was married to?


    "To talk." She shrugged her shoulders slightly before continuing. "I am here to talk about Stella and my husband. But I guess you already know that, don''t you?"


    "What do I have to do with your husband?" Stella interrupted them as she looked from the lady to Adam.


    "What were you doing in the hospital?" Cecilia didn''t reply to her question and asked her. She was worried sick when she heard about it. "I wanted to meet you guys at your office at first, but I came to know about your hospitalization, Stella. I wanted to visit you there, but I thought it will be awkward for you, not that it still isn''t any less." She giggled softly, placing the back of her hand before her lips. Every single action of hers, oozed charm.


    "I am alright." Stella replied meekly, still confused as ever.


    "Coming back to the main point of why I am here. I am Cecilia Aldrich, the wife of James Brighton." Cecilia continued.


    Stella furrowed her brows further at her introduction. "Isn''t he the CEO of R&E Group of Companies?" Stella asked her.


    Cecilia furrowed her perfectly shaped eyebrows at her statement before she widened her eyes. "She doesn''t know, does she?" Her question was more like a statement to her own ears. "You haven''t told her yet." She narrowed her eyes at Adam who guiltily avoided to look into them.


    "Told me what?" Stella looked at Adam and found him scratching the back of his head as he gave her an apologizing look. "Adam? What is she talking about?" She asked him as she grabbed his chin and tilted it up slightly, making him look directly into her eyes.


    "What is it that you haven''t told me? What are you hiding?" She asked him again.


    When Adam didn''t reply to her, she turned her head towards the lady who was sitting there with a laid back expression. "You tell me." Stella demanded to her. If it was something that concerned her this much, and then she had every single right to know about it.


    Before Cecilia could reply to her, Adam spoke up. "No, I will tell you myself." Adam cupped her face and made her look at him.


    "I told you why I signed the contract with that company and what are my motives. But I didn''t tell you what were the reasons behind them." He started to speak as he gazed into her eyes. "The family that used to look after you weren''t you actual family but they were paid for looking after you."


    "I know that already." Stella spoke up.


    Adam nodded and continued. "They were paid by the same person who was supposed to be your guardian in case anything happens to your parents, your father''s second cousin. He was supposed to look after you and your shares in the family business until you become of age."


    Adam took a brief pause and pressed a kiss on her forehead. "What do you think R&E stands for in the company''s name?"


    He looked deeply in her eyes before he answered his own question. "It stands for Rosaline and Ethan."

 Chapter 162 - Revelations

    Adam took a brief pause and pressed a kiss on her forehead. "What do you think R&E stands for in the company''s name?"


    He looked deeply in her eyes before he answered his own question. "It stands for Rosaline and Ethan."


    "Rosaline and Ethan? As in my parents'' name?" Stella asked him as she gazed into his eyes.


    Adam heaved out a sigh as he saw a number of questions bubbling up in her eyes. He could tell that she wanted to ask them, but at the same time she was hesitating, afraid of what could be the answers to them. Adam pulled her closer to himself and held her in between his arms.


    Stella let him do that as she buried her face in the crook of his neck. She needed his support as much as he needed her warmth to carry on. She could tell that it was hard for him as well. Little did she know, it wasn''t hard for him to talk about it, but rather he was worried about how hard this might be for her.


    Taking in a deep breath, Adam started to speak once again. "Dad, I mean your father changed the company''s name from Martin Group of Companies to what it is today when he married Mom."


    Stella was shocked to hear how affectionately and fluently he called her parents, as if they were his own.


    "But something happened when you were born. Something which scared them enough to leave everything here and move out of the city, that too without informing the people they held to themselves, like my Dad and Uncle Liam. The"


    "What was it that scared them off?" Adam heard her ask, her lips moving against his neck, her words, a mere muffled sound.


    "I don''t know. I tried to find it, but I really don''t know. Blake is still on it." He replied to her before continuing with the explanation.


    "He transferred all of his and Mom''s shares under your name and left the city. They went completely under the radar. Even Dad and Uncle Liam couldn''t find them all these years. They only news they ever received was about their death. And even that was by chance. One of Dad''s or Uncle Liam''s men was present at the site after the accident happened." He explained it to her slowly.


    "After they passed away, your guardian was supposed to look after you, but that greedy man paid a family to act as your family just so he could continue controlling you shares." He continued as he tightened his hold around her.


    "That man was none other than the James Brighton you met that day. He took over the empire that belongs to you rightfully. Because of his avidity, he made you live with some strangers, making you think they were your family. You were supposed to live your life like a princess, your demands were supposed to be fulfilled as soon as the words left your mouth. But because of his avariciousness, you had to work hard for everything in your life." His hold around her were getting tighter with every sentence that left his lips.


    Stella could feel the anger that was building up inside him.


    "There''s no way I will let that man live peacefully. I will ruin him. I will strip him off everything he holds dear to himself, starting with his money." Adam shifted his gaze towards the lady who was sitting across him with her legs crossing over.


    Cecilia heard everything he had said, yet there was no change in her calm expressions. She gazed back into Adam''s eyes which were burning with rage. A smile crept over he face as her eyes glinted under the warm lighting of the living room.


    "Don''t look at me like that, kid. I don''t have an ounce of sympathy towards my husband. The only thing which made me stay by his side for so long was her. I would have left him the moment my son turned sixteen if it wasn''t for her." She said, pointing towards Stella who finally looked up and remembered that they weren''t alone.


    "I was worried sick when Ethan disappeared out of nowhere, along with Rosaline and you, my child. That idiot didn''t even bother telling me what was the problem. I could have helped him with whatever it was. My husband didn''t even tell me about it either, though I think he knew about this before your parents actually left. There was no way the handover would have been possible without it. But he didn''t bother telling me beforehand either. The only thing that asshole cares about is money." She took a brief pause before she continued.


    "I started an investigation of my own about their disappearance, but it was too late when I found out their location. I had my doubts when you didn''t come to love with us after their departure from this world. But my dear husband, covered his tracks all too well. But at least your father wasn''t stupid enough to just give him the shares and trust him with it. He could only control them when it comes to voting until you could do so, they are still under your name. All he got after all these years from them was some profit. He did try to sell them off but only Stella Martin could do so. Now all you need is a bunch of good lawyers and you are good to go. Unless, you want to play with the mouse for a little while." She winked at Adam.


    "Looks like you aren''t a fan of him either." Adam made a sarcastic remark.


    "You are lucky to live in today''s world where you could marry for love my boy. Marriage was easy for both of your parents because they belonged to the same class and had the same status in society, fortunately. For me, I couldn''t marry the guy I actually liked then just because he wasn''t some rich heir." She chuckled at the end as if pitying herself.


    "I am sorry to hear that." It was Stella who spoke up. She could understand how she felt. Even imagining leaving Adam just because they didn''t belong to the same class and didn''t have the same status in society, brought an immense pain to her heart.


    As if feeling her worry, Adam rubbed her back. "It''s alright."


    "Can you please ask someone to bring me a half of water?" Cecilia asked, looking at Stella who nodded.


    Stella wiped her tears which had somehow escaped her eyes during all these revelations before getting out of Adam''s embrace. "I will ask a maid." She spoke up before making her way out of the living room.

 Chapter 163 - Bargain

    Stella wiped her tears which had somehow escaped her eyes during all these revelations before getting out of Adam''s embrace. "I will ask a maid." She spoke up before making her way out of the living room.


    "What is it?" Adam spoke up as soon as he saw Stella disappearing from his line of sight.


    "My, my. I have heard a lot about the intellectuality of the great Adam Levinson. Never thought that I would get to witness it one day myself. You sure know how to live upto the rumors." Cecilia replied with a smirk.


    "Will you please directly get to the point?" Adam fought the urge to roll his eyes at the lady sitting before him. He could tell that he had Stella''s best interest at her heart and that is why she deliberately sent her out.


    "Since you already knew me, then you must be knowing about my family as well. And by family I mean the Aldrichs." She decided to go easy on the boy. They didn''t have much time before Stella would return.


    "I do." Adam replied to her, nodding her head in a yes.


    "Even with their influence, I wasn''t able to find Stella after Ethan and Rosaline''s accident. My husband alone isn''t that capable. He couldn''t have covered her tracks this well alone. This means that someone was helping him. Someone influential enough to make Stella disappear off the grid even after Ethan and Rosaline were found. You need to find that someone rather than messing with the person who''s just benefiting from all of it." Cecilia continued.


    "You can do whatever you want to do with my husband, but leave my son out of it."


    "What if he''s involved in some sort of shit as well?" Adam raised an eyebrow at her.


    "Then treat him the way he should be if he''s done something wrong. I didn''t raise him all these years so that he could turn out like this." Cecilia replied. "The only thing you need to make sure is that she is safe and gets what belonged to her in the first place. I think I can trust you with that."


    "You sure can." Adam replied to her as he shifted his gaze towards the door and found Stella coming in, followed by a maid.


    "There you go." Stella spoke up as the maid placed a glass before Cecilia.


    "Thank you." Cecilia picked up the glass after uttering her thanks.


    "There''s someone waiting outside for our guest. He said that he''s here to pick her up." The old butler walked in and announced.


    "It must be Zachary." Cecilia spoke up as she got up from the couch. "If you don''t mind, I have to leave now. There is an urgent matter which requires my attention." Cecilia excused herself before she began to head outside.


    The couple got up and walked her out.


    A man was leaning against the car as he waited for Cecilia. He looked as if he was in his mid-forties but age didn''t do him any injustice. He was dressed up in a dark gray business suit which enhanced his fit body.


    "I was waiting for you. Are the papers ready?" Cecilia asked him as soon as she walked out.


    "Yes, they are. But why do you keep forgetting that I am the Vice President of your company not your chauffeur or some errand boy." The man replied with a scowl resting on his face.


    "Oh! come on. It''s not like you hate being either of the two for me." Cecilia gave him a wide smile, making him shake his head.


    "Get inside. I don''t have that much free time." He spoke to which Cecilia nodded and complied.


    Stella and Adam watched as the car drove away from the mansion. Stella had her head resting against his shoulder when she heard him say. "They like each other." She slowly nodded her head against his shoulder.


    "Let''s get you inside. You need to rest now." He spoke up as he picked her up.


    Stella rolled her eyes but didn''t stop him. She knew it was useless to resist or argue with him. He had listened to her earlier and didn''t stop her from joining the guest, it was her turn to listen to him.


    ------------


    "How are things going over at the new site?" Taylor asked the man who was sitting across him. He could see the man tremble slightly in fear, making him smile. He was right to fear him, for he could ruin him and his entire family, along with generations to come.


    "It''s going well so far, just like you asked." The man, who was wearing a light beige suit, replied as he shoved one of his hands inside his pants'' pockets, as if looking for something.


    A few minutes later, he took out a black colored flash drive and passed it to him with shivering hands.


    "It has all the details of the project, including the layout of the site." The man added with his trembling voice.


    "Good job." Taylor picked up the drive as a sinister smile adorned his face.


    "I did exactly what you asked me to. Please don''t harm my family, I beg you." The man pleaded.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t harm them. You fulfilled your end of the bargain, it''s my turn to fulfill mine. Your family will be left unscathed." Taylor added before he flicked his fingers.


    A man who was standing by the door of the room walked towards the couch where Taylor was sitting. He came to a halt a few steps away from him and bowed his head.


    "Take him to see his family. And make sure you drop them by their house. It would be rude to make our guests go by themselves. We should show him some hospitality, right?" He spoke to the man clad in black, who nodded his head slightly before guiding the man out of the room.


    "I have one more request Mr. Taylor. Please don''t let Boss know that I am the one who had betrayed him.

 Chapter 164 - Greece It Is Then

    Thursday night,


    "We won''t be going to the office tomorrow." Adam spoke next to Stella''s ear as he pulled her closer to himself.


    Stella was lying on top him with her head resting on his chest, her left ear pressed against it as she listened to the rhythmic beating of his heart.


    "Why?" Stella folded her hands over his chest and then placed her face over them. She looked at him quizzically.


    "Because we will be going out of the country." Adam replied to her as he ran his fingers through the locks of her hair.


    "Why are we going out of the country? Another business trip?" She asked him.


    "No, it''s not some business trip. I want to take you out. Do you remember what Wilson said? He asked you to take some rest, so we will be going to some peaceful place where you can rest and enjoy at the same time." Adam explained it to her.


    "I could rest and enjoy here as well, Adam. You just need to ask my boss to give me off for a day or two." She smiled at him cheekily.


    Adam pinched her nose playfully before speaking up. "But your Boss wants you to go and have a great vacation with him this weekend."


    "Does it have to be this weekend? Can''t we do it next week?" Stella frowned as she asked him.


    "Aren''t you forgetting something?" Adam narrowed his eyes at him.


    "Forgetting what?" Stella looked at him questioningly.


    "What date is it on Saturday?" He asked her with a meaningful smirk to make Stella recall on her own.


    Stella pursed her lips as she mentally calculated it. "Isn''t it 11th of September?" She raised her eyebrows with a casual tone.


    "It is. But does something important fall on that date? Or maybe something important happened on the 11th of September." He tried impatiently to make her realize on her own.


    Stella blinked her eyes a couple of times as she tried to think hard about what Adam was referring to, the frown between her eyebrows deepened with each passing second.


    A couple of minutes later, she jutted her lips in a pout and gave Adam a lost look.


    Adam shook his head before heaving out a sigh. "Well, my history isn''t that good either, but for starters let''s just say a guy named Adam Levinson was born on 11th of September." He spoke up, making Stella widen her eyes.


    "I-I-I¡­.." Stella tried to say something in response, but the words refused to come out of her mouth just like her brain who refused to work at the moment.


    Looking at the guilt written on her face, Adam patted the top of her head lovingly. "It''s alright baby girl if you didn''t remember it. I never told you the date of my birthday before, how could you remember it then." He gave her a wide toothy smile, trying to cheer her up.


    Looking at his loving expression, the guilt showing on Stella''s face worsened. She buried her face in his chest and muttered an apology. "I am sorry."


    "It''s no big deal, my love." Adam replied, patting her back softly. "I forgot to mention the main reason for telling you about the trip. Where do you want to go?" He asked her.


    Stella tilted her face up and gave him a questioning look.


    "I want you to choose our destination." Adam added as if getting her unspoken query.


    "But it''s your birthday. You should be the one to choose our destination." Stella furrowed her delicate eyebrows.


    "All I want is to spend my time with you sweetheart. As long as I am with you, I will be happy, no matter where I am." Adam spoke up, gazing into her hazel orbs.


    "Moreover, Hawaii was my choice. I want you to choose this time." He added, tapping her forehead. "So, hurry up. Choose one."


    Stella gnawed on her lower lip and only stopped when Adam pulled it out using his thumb. "You are going to make it bleed." He reprimanded her.


    Stella pouted and went back to her thoughts. After thinking for two more minutes, she finally spoke up. "Umm¡­. What about Greece? I have always wanted to go there?"


    "Greece it is then. I know a perfect place there. I am sure you will definitely love it." Adam replied, giving her bright smile.


    Stella felt her senses going numb as she focused on his smile. Everytime he smiled at her like this, her heart would flutter and her mind would go haywire.


    She slowly moved her lips closer to his and gently placed them on his. She slowly moved her soft lips against his firm ones, but as she began to deepen the kiss, he moved his face from her. Stella looked at him and frowned.


    "As much as I want to continue baby girl, I can''t. I won''t be able to stop myself and your body needs some rest." He added, giving her an apologetic look.


    Stella huffed and moved away from him before turning her back towards him.


    Adam smiled before he shifted closer to her and wrapped his arms around her waist. He pulled her towards him with a little bit of force, making her back crash into his firm chest.


    "Sleep now, it''s already late." He murmured against her skin as he placed a kiss behind her left ear, followed by another and then another. He knew it was one of her weak spots. He continued peppering it with kisses until he felt her body melting against his own.


    "What about the arrangements for our trip?" Stella asked him as she tried to stifle a yawn.


    "I will do it tomorrow, early in the morning. You don''t need to worry about them." He muttered against the nape of her neck, sending tingles down her spine.


    Stella hummed. "Good night."


    "Good night to you too, my little elf. Sweet dreams." He wished her before kissing the same spot one more time.

 Chapter 165 - What Kind Of Joke Is This?

    "I hope I am not interrupting anything important." Stella greeted Adam as she entered his study. She was holding a white tray in her hands which had a black coffee mug placed right in the center.


    "You can never interrupt me, sweetheart." Adam replied to her as he looked up from his laptop.


    "You didn''t have your coffee with breakfast, so I brought it up for you. I hope that''s okay." Stella said as she placed down the tray on the study desk, next to the laptop.


    The duo was having their breakfast peacefully when a call came through and Adam had to leave the table to tend to it. He was already done with his breakfast but had only grabbed the coffee mug when he had to leave.


    Adam he her hand and tugged it towards himself, making her land on his lap. "How many times do I have to tell you that you don''t need to worry about your actions here. Do as you please baby girl." He wrapped his arms around her waist while resting his face on her shoulder. "If you want to bring me coffee, do it. If you feel like pouring the very same coffee over my head, then be my guest." Adam muttered softly next to her ear. He chuckled at his own words before a frown marred his handsome face. "Just make sure it''s not scalding hot if you want to pour it over my head. I don''t want my face to look like the guy from ''A Nightmare on Elm Street'' in our wedding photos."


    Stella blushed under his scrutinizing gaze at the mention of wedding photos, her cheeks tinting with a light shade of pink.


    "You don''t have to worry about your face because I won''t be doing anything like that." She squirmed in his arms as she tried to get out of his hold. She could feel his gaze turning hotter. "I forgot to mention that Uncle Rob was calling you. He said that he has something urgent that he needed to talk to you about." Stella spoke up.


    Adam let go of her reluctantly. "I will go and see what does the old guy have to talk about." He uttered in complete annoyance.


    "Adam!" Stella called his name and shot him a look but only got a pout in response before he began to walk out of the study.


    He stopped in his tracks and turned around and as if remembering something. "Oh! You should start with the packing, I have made all the arrangements. We will leave around 7 p.m."


    "Gotcha." Stella replied to him and passed him a bright smile.


    After Adam had left the room, Stella shifted her eyes towards his laptop which was still on. She was sitting in his chair now as he had made her sit there after getting up himself.


    She slowly placed her fingers over the black keys. She chewed on her lower lip in anxiousness, which clearly showed off her hesitation. Taking in a deep breath, she let go of her lower lip and uttered and incomprehensible apology under her breath as her fingers began to move over the keys.


    Ten minutes later, Stella came into the master bedroom. She made sure that Adam wasn''t in the room before she closed the door with her trembling hands. She walked to the bedside table and picked her up phone. After unlocking it, she hurriedly typed a message and sent it to an unsaved number. It was the same number from which she had received a call earlier in the morning when Adam was showering.


    She deleted the text as soon as the delivered notification popped on the screen.


    After placing her phone down, she walked towards the walk-in closet slowly as she took in a couple of deep breaths to calm her jittery nerves.


    ------------


    The co-pilot''s voice came through the speakers and boomed through the cabin as he announced the private jet''s landing, still not announcing the exact location.


    "Seriously?" Stella shot him a look as she pursed her lips tightly, trying to bury down the urge of smacking the idiot''s head who was sitting next to her.


    "What?" Adam tried to act all innocent, even though he knew exactly what she was referring to. He had asked the crew to keep the location a secret just like last time. Of course Stella knew  they were in Greece, but where exactly in Greece?


    "Can you be anymore childish?" Stella glared at him.


    "What did I do now?" Adam questioned her again, but this time with a smirk adorning his face.


    Stella felt the urge to wipe that smirk off his face rising up again. She gritted her teeth and decided to look outside rather than the fool sitting next to her.


    As the duo walked down the stairs hand-in-hand, Adam''s joyous expression turned grim. He threw a murdering glare at the staff and crew members.


    "Where are the pilot and the co-pilot?" He asked the person who was standing close to them.


    "There they are." The man who was questioned replied, pointing behind him.


    "What kind of joke is this?"  He threw a murdering glare at the duo who was standing with their heads down. "Does this look like Rhodes to you?" He yelled at them as he waved his free hand in the air while he continued holding onto Stella hands with the other one.


    "What happened?" Stella meekly asked him as she looked at him with a worried expression.


    Adam took in a deep breath as he shifted his gaze towards her, his anger melting away as soon as his eyes collided with hers.


    "Baby girl, we were supposed to go to Rhodes but we are in Crete." He replied to her softly. "And I wonder who''s fault is that." He added as he threw another glare at the staff who was standing quietly by the sides with their heads bowing down.


    "And now, we can''t even go there because we can''t use the airspace as we pleased. My entire weekend is ruined because of some people''s inefficiency." He gritted his teeth.


    "Since we can''t go to Rhodes, why not stay here?" Stella suggested. "You said it yourself that the place doesn''t matter as long as we are together."


    "I know sweetheart, but getting a reservation at the best hotel of here last moment isn''t easy, not even for me." He heaved out a tired sigh.


    "But we could go and try our luck. What could happen at most? We get to stay at some mediocre room." Stella chided in to which he nodded after thinking for a little while.


    Meanwhile, a pair of eyes were watching all of the drama which was happening on the runway through binoculars from the VIP waiting lounge. Removing the binoculars away from his face, the man smirked and took out his phone. His fingers flew over the screen as he typed a text and hit sent with a span of few seconds.


    ''They have landed.''


    Looking at the text, his smirk grew wider ad he began to walk away while whistling.

 Chapter 166 - Domes Of Elounda

    An hour later after the duo had left the airport, another private jet landed on the same runway. A couple walked down the stairs, their arms interlinked as bright smile graced their faces.


    "It''s been a while since I last visited Greece. It''s good to be back." The woman who was almost leaning on the man''s shoulder, asked.


    "It sure is." The man replied as they walked towards the car, who was waiting for them.


    ---------


    "Isn''t it beautiful?" Stella asked Adam as they made their way towards a separate residential suite.


    The couple was currently heading towards a private two bedroom suite which the Domes of Elounda offered for couples. The luxurious hotel was set on the hillside providing a panoramic view of the Spinalonga. It was one of the only two Marriott Autograph collection hotels in Greece. It had a spa and 4 restaurants serving haute cuisine dishes.


    For guests choosing private or luxury residences, an array of Haute-Living services was available, including a dedicated villa manager, a lounge with VIP services, concierge service, private check-in, sun loungers at Spina, the VIP beach area, and upgraded welcome and bathroom amenities. Other exclusive amenities included eclectic cocktail, branded spirits and all-day snacks, signature canapes by the resort''s executive Chef, afternoon tea and state-of-the art gym facilities.


    "We did get lucky with the booking, I wonder how this residency was not booked, especially during this season." Adam murmured as he walked hand in hand towards the main entrance.


    A couple of servants, who were carrying their suitcases, followed them, keeping the sounds of their steps as low as they could.


    When the couple was finally inside the residential villa, the manager who was leading the servants bowed his head slightly.


    "Do you want us to arrange your clothes in the closet?" He asked the couple who was too busy admiring the view. Adam had come to the place before, but since it was his first time here with the love of his life, everything seemed different. Or maybe he had always been too busy with his work to stop and admire the beauty around him. He looked at Stella who was gazing outside the huge glass window. She was the reason which made him want to stop and admire the things around him.


    "Sir?"


    The manager''s voice brought him out of his thoughts.


    "Just leave them in a corner, I will call someone later on. We need to rest now." He replied to him to which the man nodded and flicked his fingers in the air, making the servants leave.


    "If you need anything, just use the landline phone in the other room. There''s a card next to it which has details of all the extensions." The manager informed him before leaving as well.


    "Do you like this place?" Adam asked her as he hugged her from the back.


    "I love it." Stella replied, still looking outside.


    The bedroom the couple was currently in, had a bed placed in the centre of the room which was facing towards the glass window which looked over the crystal blue sea.


    "You need to freshen up and then rest." Adam murmured as he placed a kiss on her shoulder.


    "You need to rest as well. It''s already noon." She kissed his cheek. "I will go and freshen up. Can you please order some food?" I wanna eat before sleeping." She continued.


    "Yeah, sure! You go ahead." Adam ruffled her hair before letting go of her.


    Their flight left the airport a couple of hours later than it was supposed to be. The duo didn''t get enough sleep on board because there were a lot of turbulence on the way. And now, this sudden change of destination.


    Adam wanted to punch the pilot so bad then, but he had to hold his temper in because Stella was there.


    "Talk about having a good time with my love." He muttered under his breath as he made his way to the other room to look for the landline phone.


    Half an hour later Stella walked out of the bathroom dressed up in a loose grass green sweatshirt, which had some random numbers written over it in black, and a pair of blue acid washed shorts which were barely visible because of the length of the shirt which reached her mid thighs.


    She looked around for Adam but didn''t find him. She thought that he might have went for a walk until she heard the sound of water running coming from the bathroom of the second room.


    "Why didn''t I check it before? Silly me." She muttered under breath.


    She came back to the room in which their belongings were settled in. Everything was arranged neatly and properly.


    ''Well, they sure are fast.'' She thought inwardly as she looked for her phone and found it on the dressing table.


    Picking it up she walked outside to the pool side and typed in the same number she had sent the text to the previous morning.


    She was tapping her feet on the ground as she waited for the other person to pick up the call but to her dismay, the call didn''t connect through and the voicemail lady started to talk.


    Enraged by it she stomped her feet on the ground after disconnecting the call.


    "Why are you trying to push the ground down sweetheart?"


    Startled by the voice she was way too familiar with, she turned around with a jolt.


    "Nothing, I am just way too hungry and the food hasn''t arrived yet." She meekly added as she tried to avoid his gaze.


    "It will be here in then more minutes." Adam replied to her as he moved his eyes to the ground. ''What is it on the ground that is more interesting to her than a living human being?'' He thought inwardly.


    His gaze turned darker as he looked down. He stepped closer to her and pinched her chin, careful not to apply too much force. He tilted her face up, making him look at him.


    "How many times do I have to tell you not to walk barefoot? What if you catch a cold? What if you lose your footing and slip?" He spoke up as he looked at the marbled pool side.


    Before Stella could reply to her, he picked her up and carried her inside.

 Chapter 167 - Unknown Number

    "Stella?" Adam called out to her. It was around ten p.m. and he couldn''t find her anywhere.


    After having their lunch the duo had slept through the evening and only woke up just in time for dinner. After their dinner, they had been sitting by the pool on the two adjustable zero gravity chairs and taking to their hearts'' content as the watched the night sky above their heads. A number of stars could be seen twinkling in the distance, adding sparkle to the cloudless sky.


    The crystal blue water seemed a darker and deeper shade of blue to the eyes due to the lack of sunlight. The reflection of the half moon could be seen on the dancing waves of sea water.


    Adam was telling her about his childhood when he used to pull off stunts just to create troubles for his father. He was about to continue when her phone began to ring and she excused herself after picking up the call saying that it''s urgent.


    It had been like twenty minutes or so now, and he was starting to get worried. He checked the entire place to make she wasn''t inside one of the bedrooms or resting area or in the minibar. He couldn''t find her anywhere. He was about to call security when he heard his cellphone chime.


    It was a text from an unknown number and only mentioned a room number along with the floor it must be on. He narrowed his eyes as his grip around the phone tightened, making a single crack along the length of the screen''s glass protector.


    He started to walk towards the main building of the resort with large strides. His blood was rushing through his body as a number of different possibilities ran through his mind.


    Reaching the main lobby he headed directly towards the elevator and pressed the button to the said floor. A few minutes later he was standing across a large cream colored door. He was ready to bust the door open but as soon as he moved the door knob, the door flew open.


    He walked inside with steady steps. Darkness shrouded most of the room, limiting his sight. The only light coming inside the room was through the open door. Adam heard the sound of steps coming from behind him. He turned around swiftly, thinking that he might see the owner of those steps, but he was too late as the door was closed and with a small click it was locked.


    With the only source of light gone, the entire room was engulfed in darkness. Another clicking sound entered his ears, followed by a beam of light which fell right on his face. He shut her eyes tightly and turned his head away in the other direction as to avoid the light assaulting his eyes.


    He tried to open his eyes and found a number of images projected on the white wall, or maybe it was a curtain, he couldn''t exactly make out in the dark. With every clicking sound which entered his ears, the projected picture changed.


    With each passing second, his eyes grew wider. He was rooted to the ground, he couldn''t move his feet even if he wanted to. Each picture was more beautiful than the previous one, it was his and Stella''s picture which were being projected. They weren''t some fancy pictures. Most of them were their selfies at home or office that Stella used to click at times. Each of which reminded him of the time they had spent together, just the two of them.


    He felt a pair of slender arms being wrapped around him from behind as a familiar misty citrus scent wafted up his nose, numbing his senses. After the last picture was projected, the projector was turned off, making the room turn dark once again. But this time the darkness didn''t last for long as the room was illuminated with a pale white light.


    "Happy birthday."


    A soft mellow voice brought him out of his dazed state, making him turn around with a jolt. He wrapped his arms around the other person''s dainty frame without even looking at the face. He didn''t need to, because he was all too familiar with every touch of hers.


    "Thank you." He finally found managed to speak after what felt like an eternity to the duo.


    "I love you." Stella muttered against his chest, hugging him closer.


    "I love you more." He replied, tightening his hold around her.


    "Sorry to interrupt your lovey dovey moment, but we are here as well." Blake''s voice interrupted them, breaking the quietness of the room.


    A couple of voice followed his, agreeing with him.


    Adam reluctantly let go of Stella to face the others present in the room. His eyes fell on the other two couples, who had mischievous grins resting on their faces.


    One by one, Blake, Lillian, Scott and Katherine approached the couple and wished him.


    "You guys are all dressed up." Adam pouted her lips after thanking each of them. His eyes shifted to Stella, who was wearing a plain black spaghetti straps dress which reached up to her ankles. The deep v-shaped neckline exposed her cleavage and part of her breasts. A long slit ran down on her right side, starting from her upper thigh, leaving her delectable right leg exposed. A simple silver chain rest on her waist, adding a bit of glamour to her dress.


    "No need to act so grumpy. Your girl has got it covered for you."


    A new voice interrupted his thoughts. He turned to see another familiar face standing with a bored expression on his face.


    "Wilson?"


    "No, it''s my ghost." Wilson rolled his eyes at him. He extended his hand towards him which had a shopping bad in it. "Go and change. And don''t take much long princess."


    Adam glared at him but took the bag anyways and turned to face Stella. "I will be back before you even know it." He pressed a lingering kiss on her forehead before heading towards the restroom.

 Chapter 168 - Blur Memories

    Adam glared at him but took the bag anyways and turned to face Stella. "I will be back before you even know it." He pressed a lingering kiss on her forehead before heading towards the restroom.


    Ten minutes later, he walked out of the restroom clad in a black coat and pants with a black button down shirt. The top two buttons were left undone, showing off a bit of his toned chest. He had a big bright smile gracing his lips as he shifted.his attention towards his girl. He walked towards her at a steady pace while closing the clasp of the Sterling silver watch, his eyes never leaving her face.


    His steps came to a halt when he was right before her. Wrapping his arms around her waist, he pulled her closer to him and placed a lingering kiss on her forehead. Stella closed her eyes as she felt warmth creeping up her spine, engulfing her entire being.


    A flash distracted the two love birds, bringing them out of their own dream world.


    Adam shot a threatening glare at Blake who just shrugged in response.


    "Not my fault man. You guys were looking damn good, I had to capture it. You will thank me later anyway." He replied with a smirk to which Adam just shook his head.


    Adam was about to reply to him when Stella interrupted the two of them. "You guys can continue to fight later on, let''s cut the cake first." She grabbed Adam''s arm and almost dragged him to the table which was placed in the center of the room.


    A white cloth was draped over the wooden table, a bunch of fairy lights illuminated the plain cloth with a yellowish hue. Dark red roses were set around the single-tier chocolate mousse cake.


    Stella picked up a knife which was resting next to the cake and passed it to Adam before passing a questioning look to Blake.


    "Hold on." Blake added as if remembering something. He took out a lighter from his pocket and lit up the sparkling candle which was in the centre of the cake.


    Lillian shook her head at her forgetful boss/boyfriend, controlling the urge to kick his ass right there and then.


    "Make a wish." Stella leaned close to Adam and whispered next to his ear.


    Adam mumbled something under his breath before cutting the cake while the others in the room wished him a happy birthday. He cut a small piece out before picking it up and brought it before Stella''s lips.


    Stella bit a little of it before taking the same piece from his head and fed it to him, more like push the entire piece in his mouth.


    "Are you forgetting that there are others in the room as well?" Blake made a sarcastic remark when he saw Adam wiping his hand with a tissue paper.


    "Can you please have some patience?" Adam rolled his eyes. He cut another piece of the cake and walked towards Blake and the rest.


    After an hour or so of drinking and chatting the couples decided to go back to their rooms leaving Wilson on his own.


    Looking around the empty room, he clicked his tongue before walking out as well. He didn''t forget to grab a bottle of expensive wine which was served to them on his way out.


    He headed towards his room which was on the same floor while whistling the tune of his favourite song. As he was about to turn left, he heard a familiar voice, one which he couldn''t forget no matter how much he wanted to.


    His steps came to a halt before they took him towards the direction from which the voice was coming. With each of his step, the voice got louder and louder. He could tell by the tone that the owner of the voice was angry and yelling at someone probably.


    A minute later, he found himself looking at the back of the person whom he had been missing unknowingly all this time.


    He blinked a couple of times to make sure he wasn''t dreaming. He slowly raised his free hand to tap on the person''s shoulder. When he didn''t get a response he pouted and tapped once again.


    "Who the fuck¡­.." The rest of his words died down as Wilson''s lips turned up in a smirk.


    "Looks like you haven''t forgotten me either." Wilson remarked as he took a step closer.


    "I will talk to you later. And you better fix the problem before that." The man shouted into the phone''s speaker before disconnecting the call.


    "What are you doing here?" Wilson decided to initiate the conversation.


    "I had a meeting here earlier in the day."


    Wilson hummed and eyed him from top to bottom as his eyes glinted mischievously.


    "You look good." He remarked as he let his eyes wander over his perfectly toned figure which was clad in an all gray three piece suit.


    "I wish I could say the same about you." The man before him replied to which a low chuckle left Wilson''s lips.


    "You haven''t changed at all." He added, shaking his head slightly. "Who was the poor guy you were yelling at this time?"


    "My incompetent secretary. I think I need a new one." The man replied as he took the wine bottle from his hand.


    "You are going to drink all of this alone." The man spoke the obvious as he eyed the  expensive and fancy wine bottle.


    "Not if you join me." Wilson added, raising an eyebrow at him.


    "Your room or my room?" The man asked as his gaze darkened at the underlying meaning of his words.


    "Last time it was yours. This time it''s mine." Wilson winked at him before taking the wine bottle back from his hands.


    He started to walk towards his room without turning back for even once. He could hear the light yet strong steps following him. The corner of his lips curled up in a pleased smile as his thoughts drifted back to some blur memories.


    *************


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 Chapter 169 - Birthday Gift

    Adam and Stella walked towards their own private residency. Adam had an arm wrapped around her lower back while his coat rested on her shoulders.


    "Thank you so much for everything baby girl." He spoke up, breaking the silence between them. "I actually thought that you had forgotten about my birthday."


    "How can I forget about your birthday?" Stella smacked him lightly on his chest as she pursed her lips in a pout.


    "Alright, alright. I apologise sweetheart. That thought shouldn''t have even crossed my mind." Adam replied as he pinched her nose lovingly. "I have the best girlfriend one could ask for."


    "Don''t try to flatter me now." Stella rolled her eyes at his remark as they entered their residence.


    "I am gonna go and change now. You can use the other room." Stella added as she moved away from his embrace and walked towards the main room, shutting the door close on her way in.


    "But my clothes..." Adam''s voice turned into a whisper when he realized that it was too late now and she probably couldn''t hear him.


    "Looks like I shouldn''t have said what I did." He muttered under his breath and went towards the minibar area to fetch a drink for himself. He needed to think of something to make it up to her.


    "Ughhhhh! Everything was going fine and you have to speak up and ruin her mood." He scolded himself as he took another sip of the fine wine.


    Twenty minutes passed by and Stella didn''t come out of her room, neither he heard the door being opened. He was now pacing before the door, pondering over whether he should knock or call out for her. He didn''t want to piss her off.


    Five minutes later, he finally decided to try the door. He took in a deep breath and tried to turn the knob. With one click, the door opened. Adam wanted to smack himself on his forehead. Why didn''t he followed her inside when the door wasn''t locked. ''But I did hear her locking the door.'' He thought to himself as he stepped inside.


    As soon as he entered the room, his eyes widened in shock. The entire room glowed with golden hue due to all the scented candles that were lit. Petals of red roses were scattered everywhere on the floor while a few roses were set in bunches around the corners with the candles.


    He took a couple of steps forward and his eyes landed on the bed. Petals of red roses were arranged in the shape of a heart. A single card was placed in the center which he picked up. His movements were careful, as to not mess with the intricate arrangement.


    He opened the card and saw a familiar handwriting.


    ''Look on your left for your gift.


    xoxo.


    <3.''


    He blinked a couple of times before following the directions given in the card. He shifted his gaze from the card to his left. He was expecting some packed box or something of the same sort. But what graced his eyes, left him only gawking. His jaw was hanging as low as it could. It would have probably fallen on the ground if it wasn''t for the two joints restraining it from doing so.


    Right before his eyes stood the love of his eyes, dresses in an almost transparent dark red night wear which barely reached her upper thighs. The two bell shaped sleeves and the lower border of her transparent top were lined with matching fur. He could see her red lacy brazier and underwear. The top had an open front, the two halves were held together by a broad red silk ribbon which was going around her waist and was tied in the shape of a bow at the front.


    Adam gulped down a mouthful of saliva when he saw her walking towards him. Her every step was as light as a whisper of a breeze. Adam could see that she was nervous as his gray orbs collided with her hazel ones. In two large strides, Adam covered the gap in between them. He stood before her and gazed at her face before scooping it in between his palms.


    "Do you know how appealing you look right now?" He spoke up in a slightly husky voice. His throat was getting dry at the delectable sight presented before him. "All I want to do right now is pin you against that bed." He added as his gaze darkened further.


    Stella was already a nervous mess and his remarks weren''t helping her at all. It had taken her all of her courage to dress up like this for him.


    "Sweetheart?" Adam called out softly.


    Stella hummed in response, it was too hard for her to find her voice.


    "If you don''t mind, I am going to unpack my gift." He added as he swiftly pickery her up and began to walk towards the bed.


    Stella''s arms found their way around his neck as she held onto him for her dear life.


    Adam placed her carefully on the bed and moved away. He walked around the bed after taking off his shoes and socks and came to a stop before the foot end of the bed.


    His eyes roamed over her petite figure as he took off his coat. She looked no less than Aphrodite herself to him. The mere sight of her lean figure which was barely covered by the piece of red transparent cloth was burning his body with desire. As the pale yellow lights coming from the lit candles illuminated her body, Adam fought the urge to ravish her right then and there. His fingers itched to open than ribbon and see her milky smooth skin before marring it with his love bites.


    Stella shivered under his heated gaze. She could already feel shivers running down her spine as every inch of her skin craved for his touch.


    "What am I going to do to you love?" Adam muttered as he took off his shirt and threw it somewhere on the ground. His lips were dying to touch every inch of her body, but he wasn''t in any kind of hurry. He had all the time he wanted to play with his birthday gift.


    **********


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 Chapter 170 - Number Of Ways

    *WARNING! The chapter contains some R-18 content*


    "What am I going to do to you love?" Adam muttered as he took off his shirt and threw it somewhere on the ground. His lips were dying to touch every inch of her body, but he wasn''t in any kind of hurry. He had all the time he wanted to play with his birthday gift.


    "There are a number of ways I could have you." He added in his husky voice before he unbuckled his belt and threw it on the floor as well.


    He slowly made his way on the bed, his legs resting on either side of hers.


    Seeing him getting closer, Stella tightly clutched the white satin sheet with her fingers. Her heart was beating out of her chest. She wondered if Adam could hear it beating as well.


    Adam placed his forefinger on her left ankle and traced it all the way up to her inner thigh, slowly and sensually making her shiver. His other hand was supporting his entire weight as he kept his eyes set on her petite face which was tinted with a light shade of red as she blushed under his touch.


    He moved his fingers under the transparent dress and in between her legs and traced them over her womanhood making her gasp.


    "You are already wet for me sweetheart." He uttered before shifting his weight to his knees. He moved his free hand to the red bow and tugged at one of the ends, opening it in one go while his other hand continued to caress her wet core which was covered by the thin fabric of her underwear.


    The two sides of her dress slipped over her smooth skin, exposing it to his eyes.


    Adam licked his dry lips as his eyes fell over her dark red lacy bra which barely covered anything except for the lace flower in the center of each cup which hid her nipple from his prying eyes.


    "You don''t need to his yourself from me sweetheart. I have already seen everything, haven''t I love?" He added when he saw her trying to hold the two sides of the dress together. He grabbed her hands and pinned them on the mattress above her head in one swift move making her yelp in surprise.


    "We could put this to use." He muttered picking up the red ribbon, his lips curled up in a devilish smirk as his eyes twinkled with a mischievous glint.


    Before Stella could guess or comprehend what was happening, her hands were already tied up together. Adam didn''t forget to end the knot with a bow.


    "Adam!" Stella yelled at him.


    "Shhh! Let me have a proper look at my baby girl." He replied as he moved back slightly, still keeping her hands in place with one hand.


    "F***." He cursed under his breath as his eyes roamed over her body. His pants were getting tighter and tighter around his crotch with each passing second.


    "Let''s get rid of these." He murmured as he hooked his fingers in her underwear and tugged them down in one move.


    Stella took a deep breath to calm her already jittery nerves down.


    Placing both of his on her thighs, Adam parted her legs only to be greeted by her wet core which gleamed under the golden lights coming from the candles.


    "Don''t move your hands, keep them in place baby girl." He added before diving his face in between her legs.


    He inhaled her sweet scent as he parted the lips of her womanhood with his fingers. He licked the wet folds of her womanhood slowly as a low satisfied hum escaped his lips.


    "Do you know how divine you taste?" He muttered next to her core before diving in again. This time he didn''t move away after a lick and continued his assault on her clit. He slowly shoved his tongue inside her opening earning a moan in response.


    Stella moaned in delight as he continued to move his tongue in and out of her core, making her wet and yearn for more at the same time. She was having a hard time keeping her hand in place. All she wanted to do was to weave her fingers through his hair as he ravished her hot core with his tongue.


    She couldn''t take it anymore when he moved his tongue deeper and moved her tied up hands, shoving them inside his hair, pushing his face closer.


    Adam stopped his movements and looked at her with narrowed eyes. "I told you not to move them sweetheart." He grabbed her tied up hands and pinned them once again above her head. "Don''t move them again baby girl." He winked at her before going back down to continue his work.


    He thrusted his tongue in and out her opening, holding her legs in place with his hands. He could hear her breaths getting faster as her insides were becoming tighter. He shifted his gaze to her bosom which was moving up and down as she moaned in pleasure.


    "Come on baby, come for me Stella."


    "A-Adam." She uttered his name in between her gasps as she came. Her insides shivered in delight as every inch of her body yearned more for him.


    Adam licked every single drop of her sweet nectar and groaned in satisfaction. "What am I going to do with you my love?" He murmured under his breath as he looked at her flushed face lovingly.


    "Let''s get rid of these as well." He uttered as he opened her hands before removing her top. He unhooked her bra and removed it, exposing her dark rosy buds. "Oh my!" He gulped as he looked at the already erect buds, standing proud on the two mounds of flesh.


    He pinched both of them making Stella hiss at the sudden strike. He captured one of the buds in his mouth while his fingers played with its twin.


    He groaned against the rosy pearl, which was beginning to turn red as he sucked onto it like a baby, when he heard her low moans. He slowly let go of the other one, trailing his fingers across her stomach and down to her wet folds.


    *********


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 Chapter 171 - Something Different

    *WARNING! The chapter contains some R-18 content*


    He groaned against the rosy pearl, which was beginning to turn red as he sucked onto it like a baby, when he heard her low moans. He slowly let go of the other one, trailing his fingers across her stomach and down to her wet folds.


    He slipped his middle finger in between the lips of her womanhood and started to rub her clit.


    Stella gasped for air when he bit her nipple, grazing it with his teeth. His fingers continued to rub the rosy bud of her core.


    "A-Adam!" She called out his name is ecstasy. She couldn''t take it anymore, she wanted his fingers inside of her, exploring the depths of her wet core.


    "Yes, baby girl." Adam replied breathily against her nipple which had turned raw under the assault of her skillful mouth.


    She moved one of her hands, which was clutching the bedsheet tightly and moved it to his which was pleasing her down there, grabbing it and shoving his fingers deeper.


    "I want them inside of me." She muttered in between her breaths.


    Adam raised an eyebrow at her as he looked at her through his thick lashes. "What happened to my meek and shy little elf?" He blew air over her nipple before shifting his attention to its twin.


    "Ughh!" Stella let out a frustrated groan, making him chuckle in response.


    "As you say my lady." He added before thrusting his finger inside her opening.


    "Mmmm." Stella couldn''t help but as the pleasurable tingles started to radiate from her core, spreading throughout her body.


    Adam added another finger as he started to move them in and out of her, increasing his pace at the same time. Her moans became louder and louder which were no less than a melody to his ears. His thumb moved her clit while his fingers continued to move deeper into her core with each thrust.


    "Come on Stella, let it go for me." He let go of her raw bud and looked up at her. Her eyes were tightly shut, her head thrown back as she but down on her lower lip. Adam tugged at lower lip with his teeth, releasing it from her hold.


    "Let me hear you baby." He whispered next to ear in his deep, husky voice as he increased the pace of his fingers.


    "That''s more like it." He added when he heard a loud moan escape from her delectable lips.


    He thrusted his fingers in and out of her. He could feel her walls clenching them, indicating that she as close to finding her release. "Come on baby, come for me."


    A loud moan escaped her lips as she spilled her hot juices over his fingers. Her insides trembled in the afterglow of her orgasm.


    Adam took out his fingers and licked every last drop of her sweet nectar while looking at her flushed face as she breathed heavily, trying to fill her lungs with some air.


    Adam moved away from her before undoing his zipper and getting rid of her pants and boxers in one go. He hovered above her as he looked into her hazy eyes.


    "We aren''t finished yet love." He added as he grabbed her waist and changed their position.


    Adam was now lying on the bed on his back whereas Stella was sitting on top of him.


    Stella yelped in surprise. "What are you doing?"


    "It''s time to try something different baby girl." Adam replied to her, bending his knees so that she could lean against them.


    "What different?" Stella asked him as she looked at him with narrowed eyes.


    Adam gave her a mischievous grins in response. "I want to see you riding me love."


    "What!" Stella almost yelled at him. She had never done it with him. She could feel his hardened rod under her, rubbing against her womanhood. She could feel it''s heat against her own core.


    "Don''t worry, I will guide you." He added with a smirk. He grabbed her waist with one hand and held his hardened member with the other. Placing the head of his member on the entrance of her cave, he guided her over his rod. Once the head was inside her opening, he titled his hips up, thrusting his entire length inside of her. Stella winced as the tearing pain wrecked her insides.


    Adam got up, still holding onto her waist and peppered her petite face with feather like kisses, starting from her forehead and all the way to her chin. After Stella had gotten used to his length inside her, he started to move slowly. He groaned when he felt her walls clenching his hardened member.


    Stella grabbed his shoulders for support as she got used to the rhythm. She began to grind her hips and pushed him down on the bed. She moved up and down on him meeting his every thrust. Adam held her hips and slowed down her movements. He rotated his hips in a circular motion, teasing her with hai slow movements. He knew how badly she wanted him.


    "Adam, don''t." She groaned in frustration and began to move faster.


    Adam gazed up at her through his hooded eyes. Her heavenly bosom was bouncing up and down as she ate his member with each thrust.


    He dug her fingers in her hips and groaned when he felt her walls tightening around his throbbing member. He grabbed her waist and changed their position once again. He moved his hardened rod in and out of her, increasing the pace of his movements.


    Stella threw her head back in delight as the pleasure of being filled by him hit every inch of her body. "F-faster." She spoke in between her gasps. His body willingly complied to her demand. He move deeper and deeper with each thrust, hitting her g-spot, sending her into her own heaven of ecstasy.


    Her moans grew louder and louder with each thrust. His hand moved down to the two mounds of flesh. He grabbed the left one and began to squeeze it with his palm.


    After a few more thrust Stella released her hot juices once again, but this time over his throbbing rod. Adam felt the wetness and didn''t stop, rather increased his movements. The quietness of the room was broken by the plopping sound, produced as he rammed his rod inside her hot core, and her moans.


    Stella continued to moan in her hazy state. After a few more thrusts, Adam released his hot semen inside her as he buried his face in the crook of her neck.


    *********


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 Chapter 172 - Wakey Wakey Princess

    Stella fluttered her eyelashes as the bright sun rays hit her face. She pulled the duvet up to cover her face. But not even a minute had passed when someone tugged at the duvet, moving it down to her neck. She groaned and tried to pull it up again as the bright light was hurting her eyes and disturbing her beauty sleep, but to her dismay the duvet refused to move up, no matter how hard she tried to pull it up.


    "Wakey wakey princess." A deep mellow voice entered her ears.


    "Ughh! Let me sleep Adam."


    "You need to get something in your body, it''s almost noon." Adam replied as he tugged at the duvet again.


    "What is wrong with you?" Stella finally sat up and threw a glare at him. "Who''s fault I that I am still sleeping? Who was the one who kept me up all night?"


    "Who was the one asking for more?" Adam gave her a lop-sided grin.


    "YOU!!" Stella clenched her jaw before picking up a pillow and jumped at him.


    "Careful." Adam frowned as he caught her in his arms.


    "You¡­ you are so shameless." Instead of paying any heed to his words, Stella continued to hit him on his face with the pillow.


    "Ughh." She groaned when a tearing pain shot in her core.


    "You alright love?" Adam asked her with concern. He was still holding onto her waist even after all the blows he took from her.


    "It hurts." She was almost on the verge of crying. Because of their rigorous activities last night, which went on for the entire night, her core was hurting like as if it was cut into pieces. She wondered how she was able to even move now.


    "Stella? You okay baby girl?" Adam asked her softly.


    "Do I look like okay?" Stella glared at him.


    Adam looked at her teary eyes and felt guilty. He was somewhat responsible for her pain. If only he had controlled himself last night. But she looked so delectable and divine, especially when she was calling his name in her euphoric state.


    "I am so sorry baby girl." He muttered slowly as he cupped her face and kissed her eyes.


    "I am hungry." Stella didn''t pay any attention to his apology. "And I need a shower first." She pursed her lips in a pout.


    "I will help you out with it sweetheart." He kissed her forehead and picked her up princess style before heading towards the bathroom.


    --------------


    Wilson opened his eyes and stretched out his arms. He looked at the chandelier that was hanging in the centre of the room, reflecting the light coming from the floor to ceiling glass wall. Turning his face towards his right, his lips broke into a contented smile when his eyes fell on the sleeping figure next to him.


    "I don''t think that it will be just a one time thingy this time." He murmured to himself. He moved his face closer to the sleeping hunk and gazed at his thin lips lovingly. A faint blush crept on his cheeks when he remembered about their last night''s activities. He slowly leaned closer and placed a soft peck on his firm lips.


    Just as he was about to retreat back, a pair of black orbs gazed back at him. His eyes widened on being caught red handed.


    "What were you doing?" The man asked him as he leaned his face against a propped up arm.


    "N-noth-ing." Wilson replied to which he replied with a smirk.


    "You do know that you cannot lie at all."


    "Whatever man." Wilson added and placed a cushion over his face.


    "Do you think you could hide from me after stealing a kiss?" The man replied as he snatched the pillow. "And do you think only a kiss could satisfy me?" He smirk before pinning Wilson on the bed.


    --------------


    Adam carried Stella all the way to his jet where the others were already waiting for them.


    "Don''t bother opening your mouth." He threw a glare at Blake who was about to say something.


    Blake silently raised his hands in the air in defeat.


    Adam walked to the single bedroom and placed her carefully on the bed. He covered her with the duvet and walked out, not forgetting to close the sliding door on his way out.


    "Looks like you drained her energy last night." Katherine remarked as she lovingly leaned against Scott''s shoulder.


    "It''s not my fault that your man can only last for a couple of rounds." Adam replied to her before taking his seat.


    "Why are you dragging me in between?" Scott rolled his eyes.


    "She started it." Adam replied picking up a business magazine.


    "Aren''t you going to wake her up?" Blake interrupted them.


    "We aren''t going to take off for another twenty minutes. Let her get some more sleep." Adam replied to him without looking up from the magazine. Stella had fallen asleep right after eating her breakfast/lunch. He didn''t want to disturb her sleep once again and get another scolding.


    "Such a caring boyfriend." Blake added only to get a smack from Lillian.


    "Learn something from him." She added before shifting her focus back to her phone.


    "Where''s Wilson?" Adam asked Blake, thinking that he might know about his whereabouts. "I tried calling him but he didn''t pick up."


    "I talked to him just before you came. He said he has something to deal with and will go back in a day or two." Balke replied while munching on the salted peanuts.


    "How are things going on the other side?" Adam asked him.


    "Well, someone tried to mess up with one of our biggest diamond mines. But they were caught before they could some potential damage." Blake replied.


    "I am sorry for not returning back to the base. It''s been busy at the company. Especially since I have made an announcement about the establishment of the new subsidiary. "I will visit in a day or two and I will bring Stella with me." He added to which Blake nodded.


    ***********


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 Chapter 173 - Little Elf

    Stella walked into the bedroom which was inside Adam''s office. He had sent her a text a while back, asking her to come to his office. She came as soon as she could after getting done with the papers she was going through. And now, he was nowhere to be found. She thought that she might find her inside the room when she didn''t see him on his desk, but he wasn''t there.


    "Why bother asking me to come when he wasn''t even in here?" She muttered to herself after checking the bathroom.


    She pulled out her phone from the pocket of her coat and dialed his number. She heard a ringing sound coming from the office with which she was all too familiar. She walked out of the room, ready to scold the man but didn''t find him there. The ringing sound was coming from his desk. She walked closer to the big desk where her eyes were greeted with his phone.


    "He even forgot to take his phone." She pouted and picked up the phone. Her eyes widened at the name flashing on the screen. She scrunched her eyebrows before cutting the call.


    "This guy is impossible at times." She murmured to herself before taking a seat across his chair. Picking up a few files from the bundle of files which were kept on one side of his table and decided to go through them. She knew Adam had a habit of keeping the files he needed to go through on his left and the ones he had checked on his right.


    She shook her head, looking at the two piles. ''He works too much for his own good. Looks like I need to make some changes around here.''


    Twenty minutes later, Adam opened the door of his office and walked in. As soon as he entered the room, his eyes fell on the back of his girl who was busy doing his work. She was too engrossed in her work to even notice his presence. He walked in with quiet steps and stood behind her. He leaned over and placed his hands on the two arms of the chair.


    "Sorry for making you wait sweetheart." He spoke right next to her ear. His voice startled her, making her jump in her seat. Adam chuckled at her response, earning a glare from her.


    "I didn''t mean to startle to you." He said, raising his hands up in the air. Stella didn''t reply to him and shifted her attention back to the file before her. Adam raised an eyebrow at her. "Are you giving me the silent treatment?" He asked to which she nodded slightly.


    "What did I do now?" He continued. He knew that making her wait for a little while wasn''t enough of a reason for her silent treatment, she wasn''t that petty.


    Stella didn''t reply to him but picked his phone which was resting on the desk before her and passed it to him. Adam narrowed his eyes at her before taking it. He unlocked it and looked through it.


    There was nothing new in there except for a call¡­.from her. ''That''s her own call, why is she giving me the silent treatment over this?'' He thought to himself¡­ it was only a minute later that his mind worked and he realized what the reason might be. He looked at the screen again and his eyes fell on the name by which he had saved her contact number in his phone, ''Little Elf''.


    He leaned against his office desk and stood next to her with his back facing the floor to ceiling glass wall. "Sweetheart?" He spoke up softly but didn''t get a reply from her.


    "Stella?" He called out her name tenderly, only to get ignored again.


    He chuckled at how childish she was acting. ''And she doesn''t like when I call her little elf. She surely acts like one.'' He shifted his attention to his phone and his fingers started to move over the touch screen of his phone.


    Half a minute later, he patted the crown of her head to get her attention but Stella didn''t bulge. He shook his head as an amused smile rested on his face. He placed his phone on the file she was reading without saying another word.


    Stella''s eyes shifted to the phone''s screen. Her eyebrows shot up as she looked at the name on the lightened up screen. ''WIFEY??''.


    She bit down on her lower lip to suppress the smile which was threatening to embrace her peach colour tinted lips. She rolled her eyes at his antics to make it up to her. He had even capitalized it and put a red heart next to it.


    Adam was looking closely at her expressions, and judging by the twitching around the corner of her lips, he knew that he was out of deep waters. He grabbed the sides of her chair and turned it around before getting down on his left knee before her.


    "Do you like that name wifey?" He asked as he looked up at her, taking both of her hands in his palms.


    Stella nodded her slightly. "A bit may be."


    Adam smiled at her, showing off all of his pearly white teeth. "What was my little elf doing by the way?"


    "Adam!" Stella narrowed her eyes at him. ''He sure loves teasing me.''


    "You don''t need to do my work for me." Adam added as he got up.


    "I am not. I am just helping out a bit, they''ll still be needing you to sign them." She turned her chair around to continue her work. "And you don''t need to work this much." She added without looking up from the file.


    "By the way, how''s the project going with R&E Group of Companies?" She asked him.


    "The new subsidiary will start the production starting next week." Adam replied to her to which she nodded I''m response.


    "I might have an idea on how to not let your new subsidiary suffer any losses or to avoid the effects after the news about the problem in materials blow up." She added.


    "I am all ears." He replied as he took the seat next to her.


    --------------


    "Dad?" Rachel entered the study after knocking on the door.


    "Yes, sweety?" Liam replied, looking up from his desktop.


    "I need to ask you for a favor." She added meekly.


    "What kind of favor?" Liam spoke up while removing his sunglasses.


    "I need you to help me in apologizing to Stella."


    "And why do you need to apologise to her?" Liam looked at her skeptically.


    "I messed up, I messed up big time Dad. But I want to apologise for my behavior, for how I treated her and looked down on her. I know she won''t listen to me if I ask her to meet me. But she will listen to you." Rachel explained.


    Liam stayed quiet for a couple of minutes. He had his eyes sat on his daughter, taking in all of her expressions. He heaved out a sigh before replying to her. "Alright, I will talk to her. I will let you know how it goes."


    "Thank you so much." Rachel walked around his study desk and hugged from the side, giving him a peck on his left cheek. "Thank you so much for helping me out with this. You are the best." She expressed her gratitude once again before walking out.


    She entered her room and locked it from the inside. She picked her up phone and dialled the last contacted number. After a few rings, the call was connected.


    "It''s done." She spoke into the phone''s speaker.


    "When will you be meeting her?" A man''s voice came through.


    "I don''t know for sure. Dad said that he will talk to he about it. It''s upto that b***h now." She replied.


    "I have a feeling that she won''t turn down your Dad. Let me know as soon as you find out." The man added before disconnecting the call.


    Rachel looked at the pictures which were on her dressing table. She picked them up, her lips curled up in an evil smirk as she stared at them. Those pictures were of Adam and Stella, hanging out together, attending meetings or having dinner or lunch at some restaurants.


    "If you won''t go out of his life willingly, then I don''t have any other choice but to make you leave forcefully." He uttered to herself before throwing the pictures in the fireplace. She looked as the pictures burned and turned into ash, mixing with the remnants of the burnt wood.


    -------------


    "I will increase the security around her." Blake replied to Adam.


    Though the office hours were over, Adam and Stella were still at the company. Stella had gone downstairs to ask Bob to make some coffee for them. They still had to take care of a few things before they could finally leave for home.


    He had received a call from Blake a couple of minutes earlier, right after Stella had left. He had called him to bring his attention to an important problem. Their men had discovered some people trailing him and Stella.


    "Do that as soon as possible. Make sure you assign some of our best men. I don''t want her life to be in danger. Not even the slightest bit." Adam added.


    "What if they are after you?" Blake asked him on the other hand.


    "They cannot be after me. I don''t think so that someone sane will get people to trail the person who''s currently ruling the European underworld." Adam replied to him as he tapped the fingers of his free hand on his desk.


    "You have a point. I will tighten the security around your place as well." Blake agreed with him. No one would be that stupid, right?


    "I will talk to you later." Adam spoke before disconnecting the call. He was watching intently at his laptop''s screen where he saw his women exiting the elevator with a tray. He shook his head sideways at the silly lady. She could have just ask Bob for the coffee. He could have sent someone upstairs with their coffee. But how could she give trouble to anyone else. That wasn''t a part of who she was. It was one of the many things he loved about her. But at the same time he didn''t like the fact that she troubles herself this much.


    "Looks like I need to straighten her out about this." He murmured softly to himself.


    As if right on cue, Stella walked inside with the tray in her hands.


    "Come here." Adam asked her as soon as she placed the tray down. Stella walked around the desk and stood next to his chair.


    "Do you need my help with anything?" She asked him while looking at his laptop only to find that he was looking at the CCTV footage. She frowned in confusion. Before she could ask him about it, she saw him turning his swiveling chair. He grabbed her by her waist and pulled her towards himself, making her land right on his lap.


    "Adam!" She yelped in surprise.


    "Ssshhh! Let me hold you." He pouted and buried his face in the crook of her neck. He rubbed his nose along the length of her neck and inhaled her misty citrus scent.


    "Stella?" He called her softly.


    She hummed in response as she leaned into his embrace, tilting her neck on the other side so that he could easily have access to her neck.


    "I love you. I love you so much that it''s hard for me to imagine my life without you anymore." He murmured against her milky, smooth neck.


    A faint blush crept on her face starting from her neck. The corners of her lips turned slightly upward, gracing her face with a faint smile.


    "I feel the same way about you Adam." She spoke up while turning her body in his lap so that she could look at him.


    She cupped his face in between her small palms and made him look into her eyes. "And I love you too Adam." She added before closing the distance between their faces and crashing her lips over his.


    ***********


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 Chapter 174 - Queen Bee

    "I have something to show to you." Adam grabbed her hand and almost dragged her towards their walk-in closet.


    The couple had just arrived home after a hot make-out session and having their coffees. It was already way past evening, and all Stella wanted to do was to change, have a hot shower and rest. Walking in those heels all day long, was killing her feet.


    "What is it?" She asked him with a curious look on her face. He looked excited for some unknown reason.


    "You will see." After replying to her, he walked inside, followed by Stella. It''s not like she had any other choice, he was holding onto her hand tightly. She was confused for a while as she looked around the walk-in closet. It looked exactly the same to her as it did in the morning before they left for office. ''Wait a second.'' She thought inwardly as she began to look more closely, not at the closet, but the clothes which were neatly hanging.


    The change wasn''t in the closet but the clothes, her clothes to be specific. All the clothes in her section looked new, she was sure that it was the first time she was seeing those.


    "What happened here?" She couldn''t help but ask Adam about it. When she didn''t hear a reply, she turned around to find him leaning against the wall. He had his arms folded across his chest as he looked at her intently, taking in all of her expressions.


    "The weather''s changing, and it''s been getting cold. So, I thought you might need new dresses for it. I knew you were too busy to go shopping and you don''t even like doing it, so I just gave Katherine a call and ask her to send new clothes for you which are suitable according to the weather these days." Adam replied to her.


    "But what happened to my old clothes." Stella walked towards him.


    "I don''t know what she did to them." He shrugged in response.


    "But, I didn''t even get to touch some of them." She pursed her lips in a pout as she came to a stop before him.


    "You can use the new ones sweetheart." Adam added before grabbing her by the waist and pulled her in his embrace. Stella let him do as he pleased, it was her favorite place to be in anyways.


    "You do know that you are spoiling me too much." Stella said while burying her face is his chest.


    "I know. I want you to be spoiled so much by me that you will find it hard to live without me." Adam smiled.


    "I already cannot live without you." She smacked him on his shoulder lightly.


    "Let''s go and freshen up. You need some rest. Your feet must be hurting after wearing those heels for this long." He added before letting her go. Before Stella could move away from him, he bent down and removed her heels.


    "Stop wearing these. I know you prefer sneakers and shoes." Adam gave her a glare before he picked her up in his arms and carried her outside.


    ----------


    "Stella? Your phone is ringing." Adam called out to her. Stella was busy going through her night care skin products while Adam was busy typing on his laptop as he was half lying and half sitting, with his back resting against the headrest of the bed.


    "I am coming in a sec." She replied to him, still sitting before the dressing table. She hurriedly closed the lid of her night cream and walked towards the bedside table where her phone was ringing. "Oh! It''s Uncle Liam." She informed Adam before connecting the call.


    "Hello, Uncle Liam." She spoke into the phone''s speaker.


    "Hello, sweetheart. How are you?"


    "I am completely fine. What about you?" She asked him in return.


    "I am doing good too. How''s that brat doing?" Liam replied to her.


    "Adam is doing fine too. You want to have a word with him?"


    "No, I actually called to talk to you about something." Liam''s voice came through the phone''s speaker and he explained his reason for calling her at this hour.


    Stella stayed quiet for some time before she began to speak. "If she really wants to apologise for her behavior, then I don''t mind meeting her. But this will be the last time I am giving her a chance for your sake."


    "I get it Stella. And thank you." Liam replied. He had given it a lot of thinking before calling Stella. And this was really the last time that he was giving Rachel a chance to make things right. Just because he stayed quiet, didn''t mean he wasn''t aware of her doings. He knew about everything he had done so far, and he wouldn''t turn a blind eye to it anymore if she messes it up again.


    "It''s alright. Just let me know about the place and timing. And do take care of yourself." She added politely before disconnecting the call. When she looked up from the phone''s screen, she found a pair of gray eyes looking intently at her. She smiled and jumped on to him.


    Adam caught her in his arms before narrowing his eyes at her. "How many times do I have to tell you to be careful?"


    Stella didn''t reply to him and hugged him. She was sitting on his lap with her legs resting on the bed on either side of his legs. She had her arms wrapped around his broad back and he face was resting at the junction of his left shoulder and neck.


    Adam patted her back as if coercing a child. "You don''t have to go if you don''t want to."


    "I just want to give her one last chance for his sake." She replied to which Adam nodded understandingly. He continued to pay her back and didn''t let go of her.


    Soon, the sound of her even breathing made its way to his ears, making him smile. He closed the screen of his laptop and placed it on the bedside table with one hand while his other hand continued to pay her back. He shifted their bodies slightly such that he was now lying down on the bed with Stella resting on top of her. He made sure that she was in a comfortable position before bringing the duvet up to cover their bodies.


    ------------


    The next evening,


    "Are you going to somewhere?" Stella asked Adam when she saw him coming out of the walk-in closet with some casual wear in his hands.


    "We are going somewhere." He rectified her. His eyes fell over her figure. "You should change into something else too." He added as his gaze darkened. She was as usual wearing one of his t-shirts with a pair of shorts which barely covered her delectable arse.


    "Can''t I just go like this?" Stella looked up from the book in her hands and asked.


    Adam threw a threatening glare at her. "Try putting a single step out of this room in that." He replied as he pointed towards her clothing. He threw another glare at her before heading towards the bathroom.


    Stella smile as she looked at his retreating back from the corner of her eye. ''I love it when he gets possessive like this.'' She got up from the bed and walked towards the walk-in closet while stretching her arms in the air.


    "Stella? How long are you going to take?" Adam asked her as he entered the closet. He was about to say something else but the words got stuck in his throat. They most probably lost their way as he gazed at the beauty in front of him.


    Stella was dressed in an all black outfit. She was wearing a black leather jacket, paired with some black skinny jeans which hugged her slender legs. Her feet supported black heeled boots which had silver studs on them at the sides. The dark brown wavy locks of her hair, were tied up in a high pony. Though she didn''t wear any makeup, her lips were tinted with a dark maroon lip color.


    She looked like some bad ass woman who was ready to take on the world. She looked ethereal to him.


    Stella turned around with a bright smile on her face. "How do I lo¡­.." She gulped when she looked at her man.


    He was wearing a black, full sleeved t-shirt which hugged his toned body. She could count those abs even from over the shirt. A pair of matching fitted jeans adorned his legs. Black converses adorned his feet. He was looking devilishly handsome.


    "Woah." She exclaimed in pride. ''I must have done something damn good in my previous life to get this handsome hunk in this one.''


    "Can you get me a jacket?" Adam asked her. She nodded her head frantically in response before walking to the section of his clothes and started to look for something to match with his outfit. Her eyes glinted with joy when she finally found what she was looking for.


    Pulling out a black leather jacket, which resembled the one she was wearing, she passed it to him. Adam took it and shook his head sideways in amusement before getting it on.


    "Shall we go now, my lady?" Adam asked her as he put forward his hand.


    "Why not!" Stella beamed at him before placing her hand in his palm and the duo left for their destination.


    ------------


    "It''s creepy." She looked at the abandoned mansion through the windshield of the car. "Why don''t you guys renovate the entire place?"


    Adam chuckled looking at her scrunched eyebrows and pursed lips. "Because it''s not supposed to be noticed by people who drive by the road."


    "I am sure that they notice it." She added to which he nodded and replied. "But they don''t dare to stop and have a look around."


    Adam stepped out of the car, followed by Stella. The duo walked towards the entrance, hand in hand.


    Stella was waiting for him to open the door but he stood quietly by her side. She didn''t know what he was waiting for.


    "Open it." He asked her suddenly.


    Stella turned her head and looked at him quizzically. "What do you mean?"


    Adam smiled and quietly guided her through the steps. The gate opened and they walked inside.


    "When did you get my identification installed in here? And how did you get my retinal and hand prints?" She looked at him curiously.


    "The day I fell for you." He replied as he guided her to a meeting room. "And I have my own ways to get those."


    Inside the meeting room, Blake was already waiting along with Lillian and a bunch of deadly looking men.


    "I missed you, little one." Blake engulfed Stella in a bear hug.


    "You are suffocation her." Adam threw a glare towards him as he tugged Stella''s hand, moving her out of his embrace.


    "Hey Lilly!" Stella greeted Lillian who was going through her phone.


    Lillian looked up and replied to her with a small nod.


    Adam cleared his throat before he began to address everyone in the room. "I called you all here for an important announcement." He looked at the people sitting around the large oval table which could fit around fifty people. "I want you all to meet your ''Queen Bee''." He draped an arm over Stella''s shoulder and brought her closer. "I want every man who''s under you guys to know that. And I want all of you to respect her in the same way you guys respect me."


    Everyone in the room besides Blake and Lillian, stood from their seats and bowed their heads slightly in respect.


    Stella shifted his gaze to the man who was standing tall and proud next to her. Her eyes were filled with a number of emotions as he stared at her man. She hugged him by side. "I love you."


    A small smile appeared on Adam''s stoic face as he placed a kiss on top of her crown. "I love you too my baby girl."


    The scary looking men inside the room had their eyes popping out of their sockets as they looked at the tender expressions of their Big Boss. Never in their lives, have they seen him like this.


    ***********


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 Chapter 175 - You In Or Not?

    "Did you get it done?" Adam asked Blake. The two friends were now inside Blake''s office. Lillian had taken Stella to show her around the place, not entirely though.


    "Of course." Blake replied as he stood up from the couch and walked towards his desk. The top left drawer of the sleek glass desk was password protected, having a touch screen keypad in the center. Blake keyed in a six digit password and the drawer unlocked with a click. He took out a manilla folder from the drawer and walked back to the couch where Adam was sitting. "There you go." He handed it to him and took a seat next to him.


    Adam opened the folder and looked through the pages. After he was done, he placed it on the small coffee table before him.


    "Are you sure about this?" Blake couldn''t help but ask him. He was utterly shocked and confused when Adam had asked him to get the papers ready.


    "Yes, I am. This is the only way to ensure her safety." Adam replied, giving him a sad smile. "I have a hunch that something bad is about to happen." He continued. "Promise me that you will look after her in case anything happens to me."


    "For sure, I will. She''s my little sister after all." Blake patted his shoulder.


    -------------


    "Do you have any idea where they might be?" Adam asked one of his subordinates. After discussing a couple of things with Blake regarding the gang and it''s businesses, he decided to look for Stella.


    "I saw them a couple of minutes earlier in the gaming arena, Big Boss." The man replied humbly.


    Adam nodded and walked towards the elevator. A little while later, the elevator came to a halt and the doors opened. He walked out on a floor which was located underground. The entire floor was fitted with the most advanced gaming technology, turning it into a gaming arena. One could find a number of visual games there along with some real ones. It was made for those people who lived in the base or for those who had just returned from a mission, to enjoy and relax.


    Adam heard some loud noises, more like cheering, coming from one of the rooms. His feet started to move in the direction on their own. The sight which welcomed his eyes, shook him to his core.


    In the center of the room, lied a big pool table. A girl clad in an all black outfit was bent over the table as she tried to align her cue. He gulped down a mouthful of saliva as his eyes lingered over her bent figure.


    A loud cheering noise brought him out of his thoughts, making him chuckle at his own helpless state. She would always look appealing to his eyes, no matter how many times he looks at her.


    "Dang! You are too good at this, lady boss." One of his subordinates who was standing on the opposite side of the table exclaimed.


    "What''s going on here?" Adam''s voice interrupted them, killing the joyous mood around and making the men stand up straight.


    "What does it look like to you?" Stella asked, raising an eyebrow at him.


    "You never told me that you can play pool." Adam walked inside the room.


    "You never asked me that." Stella replied with a smile.


    "Looks like I still don''t know you even after all this time." Adam had a sad smile embracing his lips as he came to a stop before her.


    Stella put down the cue and wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer to herself. "We have all the time in the world to know each other better." She beamed at him. Adam gazed at her face, taking in all of her features. His heart skipped a beat every time the corner of her lips curled up.


    "Yes, we do." He muttered before closing in the gap between them, pressing his lips against her tinted ones.


    Though the kiss was more like a lingering peck on her lips, Stella couldn''t help but moan lightly. Adam drew his lips back slowly. He looked at her slightly flushed face as his breath grew heavier. ''If only he could have a piece of her right now.'' He thought to himself. But remembering where they were, he controlled held himself back.


    Stella slowly stepped back a little, her eyes darted around the room as her cheeks became pink. To her surprise, everyone in the room had their backs facing towards them. They were looking at the walls as if they were seeing the most intriguing thing in the world for the first time in their lives. A low giggling sound escaped her lips which rang through the quiet room.


    "They sure are afraid of you." She spoke as she hugged him instead of stepping further away from her man.


    Adam hugged her back and hummed. "Where''s Lillian?" He asked her when he realized that she wasn''t there in the room.


    "She showed me around a little but then she had to leave for some sort of mission. So, she brought me here and I decided to polish my skills a bit. It''s been too long since I last played it." Stella replied.


    "You want to give it a go?" She added as she looked up at him hopefully, her eyes glowing in delight with the mere thought of playing pool with her man.


    "You sure you don''t want to lose?" Adam replied sarcastically only to earn a glare from her.


    "We will see who''s the loser after the game. You in or not?" Stella added with a smirk.


    Adam could see how confident she was about her skills. For a minute there he was doubtful of his own skills but the thought didn''t linger in his for longer. ''My men must have gone easy with her.'' He thought to himself before agreeing to her. "Alright. I''m in. Set the table." He added, asking one of his men to reset the balls.


    **********


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 Chapter 176 - With All Of Me

    "BOOM!!!" Stella exclaimed in joy as the black 8 ball made its way into the top left pocket. She raised an eyebrow at Adam as a proud smirk embraced her lips.


    "Crap!" Adam cursed under his breath as he looked at his girl who stood on the other end of the table with her chin raised up in the air slightly. ''Damn.'' He thought inwardly. Never in his life, did he think about losing at pool by someone. And that someone was none other than his girl. He didn''t think that she could be this good at the game. He couldn''t help but wonder about what else he didn''t know about her.


    "Aww! Don''t tell me that you are going to be a sore loser." Stella added with a smirk.


    He shook his head sideways as a smile slowly crept on his lips. "Nahh!!!! You won fair and square." He replied raising his hands up in the air in defeat making her giggle. The sound was no less than a beautiful melody to his ears, ringing through the quiet room, bringing his heart to peace.


    Stella made her way to where he was standing, still smiling like a fool. She snaked her arms around his neck and pulled his face down. Standing on her toes, she placed a soft, lingering peck on his thin lips.


    "If this is how losing a game against you feels like, then I don''t mind losing at all." Adam added after she had retracted her lips.


    "I am not good at other games." Stella pursed her lips in a pout.


    He pinched her nose and smiled. "I don''t mind playing pool for the rest of my life."


    "Are you sure?" Stella asked him as she looked at him quizzically.


    "More than anything, my love." He replied as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders before turning his attention towards his men. "Don''t you guys have anything else to do?" He asked them while narrowing his eyes at them. The men inside the room bowed their heads before the couple and hurriedly left the room one after the other.


    "Don''t be so rude to them." Stella pouted, smacking him on his chest lightly.


    "Who said I am getting rude to them?" He questioned her as he guided her out.


    "Alright, alright. I know you are only different around me." She shook her head helplessly. But somewhere in her heart, she was elated by the fact that it was only her he treated differently.


    --------------


    "Sweetheart?" Adam called her softy to which she hummed in response. "What are you doing here at this hour?" He asked her as he sat on the seat across her.


    The duo had arrived back at their love nest fifteen minutes ago. Adam went to change his clothes into his nightwear but when he came out, Stella was nowhere to be found in their bedroom. Just like he had thought, she was at the rooftop garden sipping on some piping hot cocoa.


    Stella shrugged in response. "The sky was pretty clear tonight, so I decided to come here to have a good view." She took a pause before continuing when he saw that he was about to say something. "And before you go around reprimanding me like a child. I am not feeling cold, I have blanket wrapped around my legs and I am sipping on some good hot chocolate."


    "I was about to ask you the whereabouts of my hot chocolate." He pouted like a child.


    "Right over there." Stella point towards the staircase with a small smile.


    Adam frowned before turning his head towards the direction she was pointing in. To his shock, he saw Uncle Rob coming towards them, carrying a tray on which a mug was placed. Looking at the steam which was rising from it, he could tell that it must be the hot chocolate.


    "Nice timing." He muttered softly when he saw the old butler placing the mug before him. "Thank you." He uttered his thanks softly before picking up the mug. As the butler was about to leave, Adam stopped him in his tracks. "There is a manilla folder place on the left bedside table in my room. Can you please bring it over? And a pen as well." He asked him to get a nod in response.


    "Stella?" His voice interrupted her thoughts, making her to shift her gaze again from the cloudless sky. Stella looked at him and hummed in response.


    "Do you trust me?" He asked her. His voice was as low as a whisper, but Stella heard him clearly. She was a bit confused by his question. Not because she had even the tiniest bit of doubt regarding her trust in him. But because of the question.


    After staying quiet for a while, she finally replied to him. "With all of me." Her lips were curled up slightly in a faint smile.


    Just at the moment, the old butler walked up to the couple and handed Adam a pen and the manilla folder. After handing over the things, he excused himself, leaving the duo alone.


    "I want you to sign these papers, with looking at them." Adam added as he began to open the folder. "And I can''t tell you what''s inside them either. Not now at least."


    "Alright." Stella shrugged while picking up the pen from the table. Her actions made him stop in between his actions, making him look up from the papers and shift his sight towards her.


    "Do you have this much trust in me?" He questioned her again. Not because he doubted her earlier answer, but because he was amused by her reply and actions. No matter how much he looked into her hazel orbs, he couldn''t find the tiniest flicker of doubt in them.


    "Like I said earlier, I trust you, with all of me." Stella answered his question, smiling brightly.


    Adam leaned over the table and patted the top of her head lovingly. He passed the papers to her and pointed out the pages which she needed to sign. Stella signed in all the required places while keeping her gaze away from the context of the papers.


    "I must have saved an entire universe in my previous life to get you in this one." He added after closing the folder after making sure that she didn''t miss a single place.


    "Me too." Stella replied before shifting her attention back to her hot chocolate. Saying that she didn''t want to know what were the papers about would be a lie. She was a human being after all and she was indeed curious about them, but that was all. She had complete faith in him, and she would be waiting patiently for the day he tells her about the papers himself.


    -----------


    "Are you sure that this will work?" Rachel spoke into her phone''s speaker.


    "You don''t need to trouble your small brain. Just do your part well." She heard his reply which was followed by a number of beeps, indicating that the call was disconnected.


    She cursed under her breath multiple times. "What does he think of himself?" She was enraged by his behavior, of how he treated her every time. But somewhere in her heart, she knew that this was her own fault. She knew that she brought this on her own self. ''But it''s too late to back out now, isn''t it?'' She thought to herself. After all, she was too close to finally achieve her goals. Or at least that was what she thought.


    ----------


    "Good morning." Adam whispered next to her ear. His hands found their way to the top of her head and his fingers buried inside the luscious locks of her hair. His fingertips began to move slowly on her scalp, massaging it in their way.


    A low satisfied hum escaped her lips as she enjoyed the delightful assault of his fingers which was disturbing her sleep.


    "Adam! It''s the damn weekend. After tiring me out throughout the night, can''t you let me sleep in peace now." She groaned in annoyance.


    "I have something to show you." He added softly. He slid his arm under her shoulders and shook her lightly, earning another frustrated groan from her.


    "What is it?" Stella got up with a jolt in annoyance. Adam chuckled heartily when he saw the annoyance which was clearly written on her face.


    "I have something for you." He replied to her.


    "And that something couldn''t wait?" She rolled her eyes at his lack of patience.


    "It could, but not me." He replied as he picked up a black velvet box from his bedside table. He put the box in her palms and looked at her expectantly.


    "What''s this?" She asked him in confusion.


    "Why don''t you find it yourself?" He cheekily replied to her, making her shake her head with helplessness. Nevertheless, Stella still listened to him and opened the box.


    **********


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 Chapter 177 - I Dont Like It

    "What''s this?" She asked him in confusion.


    "Why don''t you find it yourself?" He cheekily replied to her, making her shake her head with helplessness. Nevertheless, Stella still listened to him and opened the box.


    What greeted her eyes was a small sunflower shaped pendant in a rusty gold color. She took it out of the box carefully and held it in her right palm. The rusty gold colored petals had lines of a darker shade, adding more depth to them. The petals were attached to the centre base which has small raised projections resembling the seeds of a real sunflower. The minute details added to the overall beauty of the pendant. The pendant was attached to a matching chain which was long enough to make it rest below the chest if someone was to wear it.


    "Open it." Stella was busy admiring the gift when his voice interrupted her, bringing her back to the present. She was confused by his words at first but then she noticed a fine line running across the centre of the flower, dividing it into two equal halves.


    She tried to pull the two parts apart, but instead of being divided into two, they two portions slid to the sides, exposing a small circle of the same color on which some letters were engraved. ''You are my Sunshine.''


    Stella smiled while looking at the sweet words. She remembered the day he called her ''my sunshine'' for the first time. As those memories flashed through her mind, her cheeks turned pink.


    Adam was quietly looking at her, taking in all of her expressions as she looked at his gift. "Turn it around." He spoke up again after a while, causing her to shift her line of sight from the pendant to him.


    Stella did what she was asked to. On the back of the circle, she was a date engraved just like the letters. She could recognize the date in one glance. How could she forget the day she said yes to him and agreed to be his girlfriend? Never in a million years.


    "Do you like it?" She heard him ask. She looked up from the pendant and gazed into his eyes. Though she couldn''t understand why but she could clearly see that he was a little bit nervous. ''Is he worried that I might not like his gift?''


    "Nah! I don''t like it." She replied to him with a straight face.


    His face dropped down with sadness when he heard her reply, but it didn''t last for long. What she said next, made him jubilant.


    "I love it." Stella added after a dramatic pause. Her face didn''t have a blank look anymore and her lips were curled up in a wide smile, showing off her perfectly aligned white teeth.


    Adam heaved out a sigh of relief and pulled her in his embrace, hugging her tightly.


    "How can I not love your gift? Silly." Stella spoke into his chest. ''This man worries for nothing at times.'' She thought to herself, shaking her head sideways.


    "Oh! I forgot to tell you something." Stella added smacking herself lightly on the forehead. How could she forget to inform him about today? ''You silly fool.'' She reprimanded herself internally for her own forgetfulness.


    "Forgot what?" Adam asked her as he released her from his embrace.


    "I will be going to Uncle Liam''s mall today." She replied. "I have to meet Rachel there in one of the restaurants there."


    "Alright. But be careful around her. I don''t trust her around you." Adam added heaving out a sigh.


    "Don''t worry. I won''t let down my guard. It''s better to be safe than sorry. Even if she''s changing for good. I can''t trust her at all, not yet at least." Stella nodded her head in agreement.


    "Neither can I." He added softly before patting her head lovingly.


    "Can you put it on?" Stella asked him, handing him the pendant and turned around so that her back was facing him. She grabbed her hair in between her hands and pulled them up, giving him clear access to her neck.


    Adam complied to her demand right away and put on the pendant around her neck, securing the lock in the end.


    Stella turned around and showed him the pendant which rested slightly below her bosom. "It looks good. I love it." She added with a bright smile, throwing her arms around his neck, throwing herself on him. The force almost knocked him down on the bed. "Thank you so much, darling." She uttered her thanks heartily.


    Adam felt his heart skipping a beat when her sweet voice entered his ears. It was the first time that she was using an endearment for him. ''Darling. I like the sound of it.'' He thought inwardly while the corners of his lips turned upwards.


    ------------


    "Are you sure that you don''t want me to accompany you?" Adam asked her as she was getting ready for her meeting with Rachel. Stella was inside the walk-in closet, changing into something less casual, but not too formal either. Adam was working on his laptop, leaning his back against the headrest.


    "I am more than sure, Adam. And are you forgetting the fact that you train me daily? I can easily handle her if she tries to pull off some funny stunt on me." Stella replied to him while walking out of the closet.


    She was dressed in a plain, turquoise off-shoulder dress which reached till her mid thighs. The sunflower pendant which hung around her neck, looked more appealing and eye-catching on the plain dress. Just like always, she had kept her make-up to the minimum with a blush lip color. Two small golden studs adorned her ears, glittering as they reflected the warm lighting of the room. Her slender, dainty feet sported a pair of plain off-white, heeled pumps.


    "Woah!" Adam exclaimed at the sight before him. He could never comprehend how could someone look this good in a plain dress.


    "What are you gawking at?" Stella asked furrowing her delicate eyebrows.


    "You, of course." Adam stated as a matter of fact, still not tearing her eyes away from her beautiful silhouette.


    Stella walked towards him, her heels clicking against the marbled floor. She came to a stop right next to the bed where he was sitting. Leaning towards him, she spoke softly. "You are drooling."


    Adam raised his hand and traced his fingers next to his lips only to realize that she was playing with him. He narrowed her eyes at her, his gaze darkening as he looked intently at her mischievous smile. Grabbing her shoulders, he tugged her towards him.


    "Why don''t you clean it for me?" He smirked and captured her lips with his own. After kissing her senselessly, he let go of her lips, allowing her to breathe. "Is it still there?" He added as his eyes glowed with a mischievous glint.


    Stella huffed and smacked him across his chest, hard before walking out of the room.


    Adam chuckled when he saw her figure disappearing from his line of sight. He knew that he would be having an earful from her tonight. A ping sound from his laptop distracted him from his thoughts. He clicked on the notification and opened it. His gaze darkened as he scrolled through the content. He cursed under his breath a couple of times and picked up his phone.


    "Did you get the email as well?" He asked the person on the other end of the phone.


    "Yes, I did." The person replied. It was none other than Robert, the Vice President of his company.


    "What do say about it?" Adam asked him.


    "I think it''s better if I go there in person and have a look at the situation." He replied to Adam


    "You do that and let me know about it as soon as possible." Adam added before disconnecting the call.


    He grabbed his laptop and walked out of his room, heading towards the rooftop. He needed some fresh air to clear his mind so that he could think about how to tackle the situation. He couldn''t let this escalate in any case, it wouldn''t be good for the company''s reputation.


    *********


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 Chapter 178

    The glass elevator''s doors slid open on the top floor of the most renowned mall of the city. Stella walked out and made her way to the restaurant where she was supposed to meet Rachel. The pencil heels of her pumps were striking against the cream colored floor, making a small click sound with each of her steps. ;


    She was able to locate the restaurant easily as it occupied almost a quarter of the entire floor. It was one of those fancy restaurants where one needed to make a reservation at least a week in advance or they won''t let you take a single step inside the sitting area. She excused the person who was standing at the counter located right next to the entrance. ;


    "Good evening. How can I help you Ma''am?" The man who was dressed in a formal working attire asked her politely.


    "Well, I am here to meet Ms. Rachel Nelson. Can you check for me if she has arrived or not?" Stella replied to him.


    The man looked through the reservation list and replied to her. "Ms. Rachel Nelson hasn''t arrived yet, but there is a registration under her name. Are you Ms. Stella?" ;


    Stella nodded her head in a yes to his question.


    "I will guide you to your table. Please follow me Ma''am." The man replied and started to walk towards the dining area where only a few tables were placed despite the large area it occupied. The distance between the tables allowed people to talk freely about their personal affairs. There was no need for them to whisper in each other''s ears while leaning over the table. ;


    The man guided her to a table which was next to a floor to ceiling glass wall and only had two chairs. He pulled out one of the chairs for her. ;


    "Thank you." Stella uttered her thanks as she sat down on the chair. ;


    The man smiled politely in return and walked back towards the counter where another man who was dressed in the same professional attire was standing already. ;


    "You didn''t check her I.D." He glared at the first man. ;


    "She''s here to meet Ms. Rachel Nelson. There''s no way I am going to upset her. Moreover, have a look at her. Even though the lady is dressed simply but her aura still oozes of royalty." The first man replied as he took his position again. Two years of this job had taught him when not to question the identity of their customers. He could tell that the lady wasn''t someone ordinary. ;


    Stella was getting bored with all the waiting. She had arrived on time yet there was still no sign of Rachel even after twenty minutes. She was scrolling through her phone''s gallery, looking through the pictures. Most of them were stolen pictures of Adam when he was sleeping, or doing his work, typing on the laptop, sitting in his office while reading some files and so on. ;


    A smile slowly crept on her face as she scrolled further down. No matter how many times she go through these pictures, she couldn''t have enough of her man. ''Damnn!'' She cursed inside her mind when a picture of shirtless Adam appeared on her screen. "Why is he so hot?" She muttered under her breath while ogling at his perfectly toned body and those well defined and. She secretly took this picture during one of their workout sessions when he was busy benching some weight. ;


    "I am so sorry for being late." A female voice interrupted her thoughts, making her look up from the screen. A petite face full of makeup and a head full perfect blond curls greeted her eyes. ;


    ''Finally she is here.'' Stella thought to herself as she forced a smile on her face. "It''s alright. I didn''t come too long ago either." She added politely. ;


    "Why didn''t you order something for yourself? There was no need to wait for me." Rachel spoke as she sat on the chair across her. ;


    "Actually I am not hungry. I had some snacks in the evening with Adam." Stella gave her a lop-sided smile. If she wanted to expose her true intentions and break her facade of being a good person, then the easiest way to achieve it was to anger her. And what better way could be there than showing off her relationship with Adam.


    "Oh!" Rachel exclaimed as she tried to keep the smile on her face intact. ;


    ''Dang! She''s good at this.'' Stella thought to herself while nodding her head slightly. ;


    "Let''s order something first, then we can talk." Rachel suggested politely to which Stella agreed. "Sure." ;


    As the two of them were waiting for their orders to arrive, Rachel cleared her throat lightly and started to talk. "Listen, Stella. I know that we started on the wrong foot. But I want you to know that I am okay now with you and Adam being together. It''s his choice to choose the person he wants to spend his life, and he chose you. It was hard for me in the beginning because of my feelings for him. But I can''t force him to have feelings for me, right? So, I wanted to meet you today to apologise for whatever stunts I pulled on you." She spoke as earnestly as she could. ;


    For a minute, Stella was shocked when she saw the sincerity in her eyes but she shook her head sideways. She knew she couldn''t believe her out of all people. Moreover, she was an actor. She would definitely give it all of her. ;


    "It''s okay. As long as you know that you did wrong and don''t try to pull off another one of those stunts on me again, then apology accepted." Stella gave her a small smile. She knew that it was hard for someone like Rachel to change, but she meant what she said to her. If Rachel really wanted to change her ways and stopped interfering in their lives, she could turn a blind eye to what happened in the past. Though, she herself was having a hard time believing that it could actually happen. ;


    "Then can we be friends now?" Rachel''s smile widened when she heard her answer. She offered her right hand forward while looking at Stella with hopeful eyes and wide smile adorning her face. ;


    Stella breathed out loudly as she took her and shook it lightly. ;


    Their ''moment'' was disturbed as two waiters arrived with their orders and began to place them on the table without making any sound. ;


    The two ladies quietly dug in their food as soon as the two waiters left are pouring some white wine in the long stemmed glasses which were placed before them. ;


    ----------


    After getting done with the dinner, Stella was being dragged to a flagship store by Rachel. She had told her about some weird theory of hers that girls bond more over shopping. And since she wanted their bond to become stronger, she was almost dragging her to her designer outlet. To their ease, it was located just a floor below the restaurant. ;


    Stella was awestruck when they finally arrived at the outlet. The golden interior paired with the off white furnishings and the bright white and yellow lighting was a sight to behold. The store looked more like a furnishing company for the high class society than a clothing brand. The store was divided further into small sections, depending on the type of clothing the section had on display. ;


    Stella spent almost an hour inside the store with Rachel, going through a couple of dresses and casual wear. Well, it was mostly Rachel choosing dresses for herself and showing them off to her. The two ladies left the store with a couple of bags in their hands.


    "You and me, we should go out more often like this." Rachel exclaimed in joy. She enjoyed shopping with her for real. ;


    "Yeah, yeah." Stella replied with a slight nod while trying to stifle a yawn that was threatening to escape her lips. ;


    "You look tired. You should go back home." Rachel suggested to her to which Stella nodded and took out her phone to call her driver. Despite of her saying no again and again, Adam still got her a driver for the night. She looked up from her phone after disconnecting the call to inform Rachel that he''s waiting outside the entrance for her, but her eyes landed on nothing. She looked around her but didn''t find her either. ;


    "Rachel?" Stella called out to her with a frown marring her face. ;


    She was about to go inside the store again but a voice stopped her from doing so. "Where do you think you are going?" She turned her face towards the source, only to find a scary looking man standing before her. ;


    Stella shivered under his bone chilling gaze, cursing under her breath. "[email ;protected]*#"


    *********


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 Chapter 179 - Choice

    She was about to go inside the store again but a voice stopped her from doing so. "Where do you think you are going?" She turned her face towards the source, only to find a scary looking man standing before her.


    Stella shivered under his bone chilling gaze, cursing under her breath. "[email protected]*#."


    Taking in a deep breath, she straightened back further and looked at the strong built man before him. He was the definition of a thug. ''How could the security even let him in?'' She thought to herself.


    "I think you have the wrong person here, Sir." It took all of her courage to utter that sentence. After speaking her mind, she turned around to leave only to find four more men standing like talk pillars in her way. Even with her heels, she looked small before them.


    "You aren''t going anywhere little one." The man spoke again, causing her to shift her attention back to him. Judging from how he was taking the lead and his massive physique, she could tell that he must be the leader of these thugs.


    She was regretting not listening to Adam. He did ask her to keep Edward, her driver, close to her. She looked at the blank screen of her phone as her mind ran into overdrive. She remembered her training, but she knew that she wouldn''t be able to take on all of these men at the same time. They could easily over power her. If only she could call Edward somehow, then he might be able to handle these thugs.


    A tall, slender figure was looking at the scene from around the corner with a heavy heart. After spending time with Stella, she knew that the girl had a good heart. And she meant every word she said to her. But if she didn''t do this, she knew Taylor would ruin her life. She wasn''t worried about her career, but her father. Taylor threatened her do this, saying that it will be the last time he was asking her to do something of the sort.


    "I am so sorry, Stella." Rachel muttered to herself before putting on her sunglasses. She turned around to escape from the scene but stopped in her tracks when she saw three tall, well-built men standing before her and blocking her way out. Her eyes moved towards the breast pocket of their black uniforms where a single golden rose was embroidered in the top left corner.


    "I will go with you guys." Even in her dreams, she could recognize the logo. She had seen Adam''s bodyguards wearing the same plain black uniform with the exact logo a couple of times. The three men nodded and showed her the way. Without looking back towards Stella, she walked ahead following one of the three men, while the other two followed her to ensure she wouldn''t run into some store to hide from them. Not that it would have done her any good.


    On the other hand, Stella was wrecking her brain on how to send her driver or Adam a text without being conspicuous. She was lost in her thoughts when she heard a couple of click sounds which made her come out of her dazed state.


    When she looked up, a sigh of relief escaped her lips. Around twenty men were surrounding them with their guns pointing at the thugs. Though most of the faces were new to her, she could still recognize a couple of them. And due to her recent visits to the base, she was all too familiar with their uniform.


    Edward made his way through the circle and walked up to her. He narrowed his eyes at her and asked while suppressing his anger. "Shall we go home now?"


    Stella only bobbed her head up and down in a yes without saying anything in reply. She could tell that he was angry and she didn''t have any other choice but to follow him quietly to the car. Moreover, she wouldn''t want to see whatever that was about to happen.


    -------------


    "Are you okay?" Edward asked her as soon as they were seated inside the car. He was waiting at the entrance of the mall for her after getting her call when he got another. But this time it was one of the men who were assigned to watch over her. As soon as the call was connected through, the man on the other end explained the entire situation to him. His blood began to boil as he rushed inside.


    "Yeah. Your friends arrived before they could even touch a hair on my body." Stella replied to him meekly while gazing down at her knotted fingers. "Does Adam know about what just happened?" She asked him, finally looking up from her lap.


    "Yeah." Edward replied to her before turning on the ignition of the car.


    ------------


    "What are you doing here Adam?" Liam asked him as he walked down the staircase. He was in his study when his housekeeper came to inform him about Adam''s arrival. He was curious as to why he had come without informing him beforehand because it wasn''t like his usual self.


    "I have something important to discuss with you." Adam replied while he continued to stand straight even after Liam had settled on the couch.


    "I am all ears, but have a seat first, my child." Liam asked him as he pointed towards the space next to him.


    After sitting down, Adam started to explain the reason of his sudden visit to him.


    -----------


    Liam was sitting quietly with a darkened expression after listening to Adam. Anger was written on his face in bold, capital letters.


    "I have to go back home. Stella might be reaching there soon." Adam spoke up, breaking the deathly silence which was lingering in the surroundings.


    He stood up when he didn''t hear a reply from him and headed outside. As he was walking down the front porch, he saw his men arrive along with Rachel. She looked up when she felt a silhouette standing before the entrance of her home. Their eyes collided for a mere second as she quickly averted her eyes, hanging her head as low as she could.


    Adam shook his head sideways when Rachel and his men had disappeared from his line of sight before walking towards his car.


    -----------


    "You can leave." Liam spoke to the three men accompanying Rachel without looking at them. His head was hung low, resting on his propped up hands which were knotted together.


    The three men bowed slightly before walking out, leaving them alone.


    Rachel stood rooted to the ground, looking at her feet. She was dreading the silence more than her father''s scolding.


    "Why did you do it?" Liam finally spoke up after a couple of minutes. His voice was devoid of any emotion.


    "I-I didn''t have a choice. I''m sorry, Dad." She muttered softly while apologizing for her actions. She knew no matter how much she apologized, she wouldn''t be forgiven this time.


    "Sorry? Is that all you have to say? Liam yelled at her. He stood up from his couch and walked up to her. "What if those men weren''t there to watch over her? Do you know the outcomes of that?" He questioned her, narrowing his eyes at her.


    "I know my apology will change nothing, but I am really sorry. I wouldn''t have done it if I had a choice." She finally looked up.


    "You always have a choice, Rachel. I don''t know what was the reason, but you could have told me about it. Even Adam would have helped you if you would have come clean before him." Liam added.


    "I will apologise to the two of them." She added while biting her lower lip.


    "I''m glad that mother isn''t here with us today to see you like this. If she was, she would have been ashamed of you." Liam spoke and walked away towards the staircase which was leading to the first floor.


    She remained rooted to the ground as her eyes began to rest up as his words resonated in her mind. She wouldn''t have mind even if he had slapped her, but what he said hurt her to her core.


    Liam stopped at the base of the staircase. "You will leave the entertainment industry and go abroad. I will arrange a place for you to stay in until you have learned how to be a better human being. You can complete your degree their which you left in between and get yourself a job. Until you get one, I will send you a limited amount of money enough for your monthly expenses. You don''t need to worry about your security because you will live there as someone else, not Rachel Nelson. Go and pack your belongings." He spoke his words with absolute resolution, still facing his back towards her. His words didn''t give her a room to argue over.


    "Yes, Dad." She muttered under her breath as a lone year escaped her eyes.


    *********


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 Chapter 180 - Cold Shoulder

    Stella was pacing back and forth in front of the entrance of the mansion. She was expecting to get an earful of scolding from Adam on arriving. But nothing of the sort happened. In fact, Adam was not even at home. She even asked Uncle Rob about him but even the old butler didn''t have any idea about his whereabouts. He just saw him leaving when he was going towards the servants'' quarters. And by the look on his face, he seemed really angry.


    After knowing about that, Stella felt restless. She wasn''t worried about him at the moment. What troubled her was the fact that he was angry when he left.


    ''An angry Adam is definitely a good thing for me.'' She thought inwardly as she was almost on the verge of crying.


    She heard a low chuckle which made her turn her head towards the source. Edward was leaning against his parked car, looking at her with an amused expression.


    "Why are you laughing?" Stella narrowed her eyes and asked him.


    "Because I am amused." He replied with a smile.


    "Here I am, almost on the brim of losing my mind. And you find the situation amusing?" She gave him a questioning look only to get a nod in response.


    Stella glared at him one more time before continuing with her pacing.


    "You walking back and forth on the same spot won''t make time go any faster." Edward added earning another glare from him.


    "What do I do now?" She asked herself while walking back and forth next to the fountain which was located in the center of the driveway.


    "Uh.. wait." Edward stated the obvious answer to her question. Even though he knew that she was talking to herself. But he couldn''t let her worry herself to crazy, so he decided to continue to talk to her while waiting for his Big Boss.


    "Can we at least go inside and wait for Big Boss there?" He asked her when he felt a gush of cold wind. He only had one thought in his mind. ''If she gets a cold while waiting outside for him here in my presence, Boss will definitely kill me.''


    "You can go inside if you want to. I am not going in, unless he comes." She replied to him, still continuing her pacing.


    "He will be back. Why are you so worried?" He asked her, shaking his head.


    "I know that he will be back, it''s just I am worried that he''s angry." Stella replied to him.


    Edward was about to say something when he heard the sound of a car coming up the driveway. The car came to a stop before the front entrance where Stella had finally stopped her senseless pacing. He looked from the car to Stella and then back to the car.


    Adam stepped out of the car before passing Edward the keys. "Can you please park it in the garage?" He asked him nonchalantly to which Edward replied with a yes.


    Stella was standing a few steps away from the black Audi, looking expectantly at Adam. Her heart started to beat out of her chest when Edward drove away Adam''s car to park it in the garage. She was waiting for the scolding to begin any moment now, but to her dilemma, that didn''t happen.


    Adam walked up to her and looked at her intently. His face was devoid of any emotion, not giving away his thoughts. She could feel his eyes boring into her head as she looked down at the ground. The two of them continued to stand before entrance in the same position, with Stella looking down at her own feet and Adam at her. Another gush of cold wind passed by, making Adam released a frustrated sigh.


    "It''s cold outside, you should go in." He finally spoke up, making a smile crept up on her lips which didn''t last for long. When she looked up from the ground, her eyes landed on thin air. She turned around to see him walking inside the mansion with his hands shoved inside his pockets. She pursed her lips in a pout and quietly followed him inside.


    ''Good job, Stella. You are getting a cold shoulder from him.'' She scolded herself internally. She would have preferred him lashing out on her rather than giving her the silent treatment.


    ------------


    Stella walked out of the bathroom after a warm bath. She had changed into some shorts and a white woolen baggy sweater. She was hoping to see Adam sitting on the bed and doing his work. But when she looked in the direction, her eyes landed on the empty bed.


    When the duo were coming up, Adam had walked into his study instead of the master bedroom. She was hopeful that he would be fine by now, but it looked otherwise.


    "Ughh!" She let out a frustrated groan as she stomped her foot on the ground.


    "Owww." She yelled as a stinging pain shot up through her right leg. In her aggrieved state, she had used too much force. She limped all the way to the bed and sat down before pressing the bell. She dragged her leg up on the bed and leaned against the headrest of the bed.


    After two minutes, Uncle Rob walked into the room. He thought that it must be Adam who called him, but when he saw the sight of Stella wincing in pain, he became worried.


    "Are you okay, Young Miss?" He asked her, concern was evident in his voice.


    "I think I sprained my ankle." Stella replied gritting her teeth.


    "I will bring the first aid box." The old butler added before walking out of the room. He needed to inform his Young Master as well.


    A couple of minutes later, the door of the bedroom opened.


    "Thank you, Uncle Rob." Stella added without looking up from her leg when a first aid box was placed on the bedside table. She turned to pick it up but two muscular arms beat her to it. She finally looked up at the owner of those hands.


    "Shouldn''t you be in your study? What are you doing here?" Stella added with a pout.


    Adam didn''t bother to reply to her as he sat down on the other end of the bed. He took out a pain relieving spray from the first aid box and uncapped it. Holding her right leg carefully, he placed it on his lap before putting on the pain relieving spray.


    Stella hissed at the burning sensation and tried to pull her leg back but Adam was holding it in place, not letting her to move it even a bit. He put on a little more of the spray before putting it away.


    "Can you be a bit gentle with my leg?" Stella narrowed her eyes at him.


    Adam looked up at her after putting the first aid box away. "Can you be a bit gentle with yourself?" He raised an eyebrow at her. "How did it happen?" He questioned her.


    "I was stomping my foot on the floor, but I think I used too much force." She answered him honestly. Since it was her own fault, so she didn''t mind accepting it


    "Oh really? Why don''t you try smacking your head against a wall as well? And don''t forget to use too much force?" Adam added sarcastically before getting off the bed. He turned around to leave the room but stopped when two slender arms wrapped around his torso.


    Stella buried her face in his back and uttered an apology. "I should have listened to you. I know I am wrong for not listening to you. I am sorry."


    Adam stood there quietly and Stella continued her apology. "Adam, talk to me. Yell on me, shout at me, take out your anger on me, but at least talk to me. You know how much you being silent worries me. I would rather prefer you getting angry."


    "Please, talk to me." She muttered against his back as she began to tear up. "Adam, please."


    Adam heaved out a long sigh when he heard her voice tremble. He grabbed her arms and loosened her grip around him before turning around.


    *********


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 Chapter 181 - Stop With The Pouting

    "Please, talk to me." She muttered against his back as she began to tear up. "Adam, please."


    Adam heaved out a long sigh when he heard her voice tremble. He grabbed her arms and loosened her grip around him before turning around.


    He picked her up in his arms before settling himself on the bed, leaning his back against the headrest. He placed her in his lap with her back resting against his chest and her legs resting on the bed. He picked up a soft pillow and placed it under her leg, making sure that it was in a comfortable position. He wrapped his arms around her waist and hugged her closer while burying her face in her neck.


    "I am not angry with you. I am angry at my own self." He finally spoke up as he hugged her tighter.


    "And why is that?" Stella frowned as she questioned him.


    "What if something might have happened to you today? What if my men weren''t there to watch over you? And if anything would have happened to you, it would have been because of me." He murmured against her neck.


    "But nothing happened to me, Adam. Your men were there to watch over me because of you. And I don''t have a single scratch." Stella tried to comfort him, trying to make sure that he wouldn''t go around blaming himself.


    "But what if they weren''t? And it would have been because you are my girlfriend." He repeated again.


    Stella felt anger building inside her as she shifted slightly in his lap. Her fingers found their way to his hair and slid in between those silky black locks. With slight force, she pulled his hair, forcing him to look at her.


    "Can you stop blaming yourself and with those what ifs? Because none of that actually happened. I am completely fine, ain''t I?" She added as she pinched his cheek. "Stop acting like a child, will you?"


    Adam frowned at her. ''What happened to the girl who was sniffling against his back? How did I end up being scolded?'' He thought to himself while narrowing his eyes.


    "You are right. I shouldn''t blame myself for something that didn''t even happen. And if someone is supposed to be blamed for the ''what ifs'', it''s you." He replied with an innocent smile adorning her face.


    Stella smiled as she bobbed her head up and down, silently agreeing to him. But the smile on her face didn''t last for long as her mind processed what he had actually said. She glared at him and smacked him hardly across his shoulder. "Excuse me! What do you mean by ''I should be the one to blame''?" She questioned him while throwing death glares at him.


    "Excuse me! Who''s the one who said yes to meeting Rachel? Who''s the one who went out with on her own even after I offered to accompany her?" Adam asked, raising an eyebrow at her.


    Stella gaped at him with her lower jaw hanging low. ''How did it turn out this? One moment he''s blaming himself for what happened and the very next he''s blaming it all on me?'' She couldn''t comprehend how did the situation turned out to be like this.


    "You, moron." She smacked him across his chest a couple of times, making him chuckle. She rested her face on his shoulder and apologized to him one more time. "I was the one who didn''t listen to you and went out with her own my own. I am sorry for making you worry about me."


    "Stop with the ''I''m sorry''. I am just relieved that you are okay." He patted her head.


    "By the way, what will happen to those men?" She asked him. She was a bit curious about it when Edward informed her that they are being taken to the base.


    "You don''t need to concern yourself with it." Adam replied. He didn''t want to expose her to the dark part of his underworld business.


    "But I am curious." She pursed her lips.


    "And curiosity killed the cat." Adam added as he pinched her nose, making her to frown.


    -----------


    "What are you doing here?" Adam questioned her as he entered the kitchen.


    Stella, who was busy looking through the refrigerator, turned her face towards the entrance of the kitchen. She frowned looking at his disheveled state as he stood by the kitchen counter with his arms folded across his chest.


    "What happened to you?" Stella asked him before shifting her attention back to the contents of the refrigerator.


    "What are you doing here?" Adam repeated his question from earlier again.


    "I was feeling a bit hungry, so here I am." She replied to him.


    Adam shook his head helplessly. Stella had somehow fallen asleep in his lap earlier. He had tucked her in a duvet carefully before going back to his study, he still needed to finish some work. Half an hour later, he decided to come back and have a look at her to make sure she was comfortable. But when he entered the room, he felt his soul leaving his body as soon as his eyes landed on the empty bad and the duvet which was lying on the floor.


    He had looked for her like crazy in the whole mansion, including the rooftop, but didn''t find her. It was already close to midnight and all the servants were resting in their quarters, so he roamed through the empty mansion in his own. He was about to go to their quarters but stopped when he saw that the kitchen light was turned on. Thinking that it might be the old butler, he made his way towards it, only to find his girl looking through the refrigerator.


    "You could have asked anyone to bring you food." He shook walked up to her to drag her away from the fridge. "And didn''t you eat anything at your dinner date?"


    "I did. I am just feeling hungry." She shrugged in response.


    "You could have asked anyone to bring you food upstairs. Or you could have just told me to do so." He picked her up and put her down on one of the three bar stools which were next to the kitchen counter. "How''s your foot doing?" He asked her, going around the counter again.


    "It still hurts, but it''s way better than before. I can at least walk." She replied to him. "And it''s already midnight. I didn''t want to disturb them. And I didn''t want to disturb you either as you were doing your work."


    "To me, the work isn''t important, you are. When will you get that through your thick skull?" He questioned her without turning away from the refrigerator.


    "I don''t have a thick skull, you do." Even though she knew he couldn''t see her face, she still pouted. "And I have already checked in there, there is no left over food."


    "I know, I am not looking for left over food. I am looking for ingredients. And stop with the pouting." He added without turning back.


    *********


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 Chapter 182 - Mac And Cheese

    "I know, I am not looking for left over food. I am looking for ingredients. And stop with the pouting." He added without turning back.


    "Why would you be looking for ingredients?" She asked him with a confused expression.


    "Since there is no left over food, I will fix something up for you to eat." He replied while taking out a couple of jars and boxes from the refrigerator and placed them on the counter before her.


    "You can cook?" Stella looked at him skeptically.


    Adam hummed in response, slightly nodding his head at the same time.


    "On a scale of one to ten, how good you are at it?" She asked him, giving him a questioning look.


    "I would say a 9.5." Adam replied after thinking for a while.


    "Damn! I am hardly a 6." She added as she furrowed her delicate eyebrows. ''Was there anything this man wasn''t good at?'' She questioned herself even though she knew that the answer to that question would be a big no, in bold and capital letters.


    "What would you like to eat?" Adam ignored her remark and questioned her.


    "I want to eat something which has a lot of cheese in it and doesn''t take too long to get done." Stella replied as she pondered over her preference of late night food. "What about Mac and cheese?" She spoke up as her eyes glinted with joy with the mere thought of having the fine, creamy texture touching her tongue.


    Adam chuckled as he looked at her expressions. ''She acts like a child at times.'' He thought while smiling at her. "Mac and cheese is easy. Give me around twenty minutes, my lady." Adam gave into her wish and began to prepare the dish.


    He placed a medium-sized pan on the electric stove and put some water in it. He waited a little while and added elbow macaroni in it when the water began to boil. On the other stove, he put another pan and added some butter in it. When the butter melted, he put some flour, milk, shredded cheese and spices in it. He continued to stir the mixture until it turned into a sauce like state. He then moved his attention to the booking water and checked on the macaroni. After making sure that it was done, he moved the pan to the sink where he put them in a strainer.


    He walked back to the counter with the strainer after draining the water out completely. He added the macaroni to the sauce and cooked it for a while, letting the macaroni absorb some of the taste of the creamy sauce and spices.


    When the dish was completely done, he turned off the electric stove and served it in a bowl. He garnished it with some more grated cheese which was a mixture of cheddar and parmesan cheese. The fine grated cheese melted over the piping hot dish as soon as they touched it.


    Putting a fork in it, Adam paced the bowl before her. Stella looked from the dish to him and then back to the dish, her eyes wide open. She had been observing his moments since he began to cook and oh my¡­ The grace with which he moved while cooking was a sight to behold. She could watch him cook over and over again without getting bored.


    "Come on, eat it. What are you waiting for?" Adam''s voice interrupted her thoughts, urging her to pick up the fork and take a bite of the mouth-watering dish.


    A low satisfied moan resonated in her throat as she felt the fine, creamy texture of the dish against her tongue. "Goodness gracious!" She exclaimed, still having her mouth full of mac and cheese. She ignored the man who was standing before her and continue to eat.


    She let out a contented sigh after eating the last bit of the dish. She was still not over the dish when she felt a pair of eyes boring into her head. She finally looked up from the bowl, which looked as if it had been licked clean, to the man who was standing across the counter.


    Adam hadn''t moved from his position after serving her. He was watching her intently all this while, taking in her expressions as she enjoyed the food he had made for her. And she didn''t even bother paying any attention to him, not that he minded it. He could cook for her daily if it meant he could get see her delighted expressions.


    "It was delicious." Stella smiled brightly at him. "Thank you for making it for me."


    "The honor was all mine, my love." He replied with a wide smile as well.


    "Can you cook for me once in a while?" She asked him while trying to suppress a yawn.


    "You don''t need to ask me that. Just order me around. This humble man will be at your service, Ma''am." He bowed his head slightly before her, earning a giggle from her. "Give me a minute." He asked her as he began to shift the used utensils in the sink and the remaining ingredients back in the refrigerator.


    "You need to go back to sleep now that you have filled your stomach." Adam muttered as he made his way around the counter to where she was sitting. He picked her up in his arms and began to walk towards the staircase.


    "Oh! I forgot to ask you. Where did you place my pendant? I didn''t find it on me when I woke up." Stella tightened her grip around his neck, resting her head on his shoulder.


    "You fell asleep while talking to me, so I made you lie on the bed and had to remove it so that it won''t disturb your peaceful slumber. You don''t need to wear it all the time. I know you don''t like jewelry much." Adam replied to her as he climbed up the staircase.


    "But I like the pendant." Stella muttered as she pursed her lips. "No, scratch that. I love it."


    "I know you do, but you are still not wearing it all the time, that''s it." Adam shook his head in a no as he refused to give into her wishes.


    "But¡­" Stella was about to refute but Adam cut her off. "No means no. I don''t want to argue about this." He wouldn''t mind it if it was a really small locket, but the pendant wasn''t exactly a small one and the pointed tips of the petals could hurt her while sleeping. There was no way he was going to take that chance with her.


    "Now be a good girl and sleep." He added as he placed her down carefully on the bed. He placed a cushion under her right foot and placed a duvet over her, making sure she was covered properly except for her face. He began to walk away from the bed after tucking her in, but Stella grabbed his hand and tugged at it, stopping him in his tracks.


    "Where do you think you are going? Don''t tell me you are gonna go back to your study to finish off your work?" She questioned him as she furrowed her brows.


    Adam took her hand which was holding on his and placed it back under the duvet. "I am just going to change into my sleepwear. I will be back before you even know it." He muttered softly, pressing a kiss on her forehead. "Be good and don''t move." Adam gave her a glare before walking towards the walk-in closet.


    *********


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 Chapter 183 - And I Love You The Most

    Sunday morning,


    Stella was sleeping soundly when she shifted her body slightly to her left. Her hands roamed around the space next to her, looking for her favorite person. She scrunched her eyebrows in annoyance when her hands landed on the satin bedsheet. Her thick eyelashes fluttered like the wings of a butterfly as she opened her eyes, giving them some time to adjust to her mildly bright surroundings.


    A dissatisfied expression marred her petite face when her eyes landed on the empty space next to her. She puckered her lips in a pout while knitting her delicate eyebrows.


    "Adam?" She called out for him, but her call was answered with the silence of the room.


    "Ughhh." She groaned in frustration as she tried to sit up. Her eyes moved to the wall clock hanging on the wall across the bed, showing that it was only half past eight. "It''s Sunday for goodness''s sake. What is wrong with this man." She muttered under her breath as she tried to get down from the bed. A slight pain shot up her right leg when her foot made contact with the cold floor.


    The pain was still there, but it was way better than yesterday. She was condemning herself for putting herself in this situation. There was no need for her to act like such a child yesterday and hurt herself.


    She looked towards the bathroom door which was closed but the light wasn''t turned on. ''He isn''t in there as well.'' She thought inwardly as she began to look for her comfy slippers. She was finally able to locate her slippers after a minute and slid them on her feet. A yawn escaped her lips as she tried to get up, holding on to the bedside table for support. She began to walk towards the bathroom to brush her teeth. She usually does it at night and then after breakfast before getting ready for office. But she forgot to do so because of Adam.


    After brushing her teeth, she looked for Adam in his study but he wasn''t there either, the room was empty. She closed the room and walked towards the staircase, holding onto the walls of the hallway for support. She walked down the stairs with a little difficulty as she couldn''t put on much weight on her right leg. As she reached the bottom of the staircase, she heard a couple of noises coming from the dining hall.


    Her feet began to move in the direction of the dining area. One of the servants who was busy placing flowers in the vases, saw her walking towards the hall and stopped in her tracks as her eyes landed on Stella''s gait. She out the remaining flowers down and quickly walked up to her.


    "Ma''am, let me help you." The maid exclaimed as she began to support Stella all the way to the dining hall.


    Adam who was busy talking to his ''guests'', shifted his to the entrance of the hall when he saw the silhouettes of two figures from the corner of his eye. He jolted up from his seat and took hurried steps towards them. Uttering a thanks to the maid, he took her place to support Stella.


    "Thank you." Stella didn''t forget to thank the maid as well. She was about to take another step forward but Adam held her back. He bent down slightly, placing one of his hands behind her shoulders and the other below her hips and picked her up swiftly. Her hands wrapped around his neck on their own. Even though they were getting used to being picked up by him.


    "Good morning, everyone." Stella greeted the people acquiring chairs around the dining table, with a bright smile.


    "We heard about last night, so decided to come here to see that you are safe with our own eyes." Blake spoke up.


    "What happened there?" Lillian asked, pointing towards her leg.


    "I sprained my ankle last night. But this happened here, at home. Those people don''t have anything to do with it." She explained it to them as her eyes lingered over Scott who was sitting there quietly, looking down at his plate as he continued to eat.


    Adam settled her down on a chair next to his. "Why did you come down here on your own? You could have called me?" Adam reprimanded her.


    "I am hungry, can I have some food first? I will have your scolding after that." She added before turning her attention towards their guests. "Adam must have informed you guys that I am fine, you guys didn''t have to do this."


    Adam just shook his head as she continued to converse with others and took out his phone. His fingers moved over the on screen keyboard fluently and typed a text before sending to the old butler.


    "What happened to him?" Stella asked, pointing towards Scott, who hadn''t looked up at her for even once.


    "Can''t you tell? He''s angry at you." Katherine replied to her as she patted Scott''s shoulder. "He was damn worried about you when we heard about what had happened back at the mall, didn''t even sleep a wink last night and came here first thing in the morning." She continued as she looked from Stella to Scott and then back to Stella.


    Guilt began to rise in her as she looked at the people sitting on the table. She was the reason that they had ruined their weekend for her. She was the reason their were sitting there. Even though she knew them because of Adam, except for Scott, they had treated her like their own family all this time. "I am so sorry for troubling you guys." She muttered a sincere apology. "And thank you so much for always treating me like your family." She thanked them as her eyes began to tear up.


    "What are you thanking us for?" Blake frowned at her sudden emotional outburst.


    "Exactly, girl. You are our family." Lillian added with a genuine smile, shocking everyone. It was the first time they were seeing her smile like this. Of course, except for Blake.


    "Why are you getting so emotional, woman?" Katherine added with a confused expression. "You don''t need to thank us for anything, ever. And I am speaking for him as well." She added the latter part pointing a finger towards Scott.


    Their replies made Stella smile wider. She knew that Scott was just angry with her and would be in a while. So, she wasn''t worried about him. "Ahh! I love you guys so much." She exclaimed in joy. But before she could hear a reply from them, she heard someone clearing his throat. She moved her eyes to look at the man who was sitting next to her with a grumpy expression as he stared at her with his narrowed eyes.


    "And I love you the most." She added with a bright smile, showing off her pearly white teeth as she hugged him from the side.


    *********


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 Chapter 184 - Amsterdam (1)

    "Scott?" Stella called him softly as she sat down beside him on the couch. Lillian and Blake had left after having their breakfast, saying that they had to take care of certain things. Stella had a hunch about what, or more precisely who, those certain  things might be.


    When she didn''t hear a reply from Scott, she looked towards Adam, asking for some help silently.


    Adam passed her a small smile. "Katty? Why don''t we go outside. You will love the new plants that my gardener planted a while back."


    As if taking his hint, Katherine agreed right away. "Sure, why not!"


    Stella was looking at the two of them with her eyes widened in shock. She asked him for help, not to leave her all alone to deal with this on her own.


    Adam turned around when he was by the door of the living room and passed her a devilish smile before disappearing out of the room.


    Stella glared at the door, imagining it to be his back. She made a mental note to have her revenge before shifting her attention to the matter at hand.


    "Scotty?" She called him again, but this she didn''t forget to make herself sound more pitiful. "I am sorry. I know whatever happened was my fault. I will be more careful in the future." She continued.


    "Oh! So you know that it was your fault and that you have others who actually care about you unlike your own self." Scott finally replied to her, his voice laced with mockery.


    "I am your little sister, ain''t I? Is this is how you treat your ''little sister''?" Stella asked him, emphasizing the words ''little sister''s. She knew that the only way to get him over his anger is to trigger his emotions. And she also knew how to use that to her own benefit. She couldn''t care less about anything else as long as he talks to her just like usual.


    "Are you going to use that card on me now?" Scott shifted his gaze from the table to her. "I know your tactics all too well. Adam may fall for this, but not me." He flicked her on her forehead.


    "Ouch! Did you really have to use that much force?" She yelped as she rubbed her forehead. It was stinging really bad because of the amount of force he had used.


    "Can you please start caring for your own self? You are not alone anymore, Stella. At least think about Adam. He didn''t have a family, but he has you now. You are his only family. Look after yourself for him if not for your own self or me." He tried to make her understand as he patted her head like a child. "Please." He added softly only to get a nod from her.


    "Let''s go outside now. They must be waiting for us, and I need to go back as well. I promised Katherine a date today." He spoke up when he didn''t hear a reply from her.


    Stella nodded her head in a yes as she tried to get up. She was about to lose her footing but Scott grabbed her shoulder. He guided her all the way to the garden where they could see two figures standing on the damp freshly mowed grass.


    Adam had his back towards them as he was busy talking to Katherine. Stella walked up to him with Scott''s help and hugged from behind, causing him to stop in his tracks. He looked at the two dainty arms wrapped around his lower torso as a smile slowly crept on his lips.


    He turned around and hugged her back. "Hey! You alright?" He asked her with concern when she buried her face in his chest. She nodded her head slightly without replying to him verbally. He furrowed his eyebrows as he looked towards Scott questioningly.


    "Did you say something to my little elf?" He glared at him.


    Scott chuckled as he raised his hands up in the air. "I wouldn''t dare to."


    "You better not." Adam threw another glare towards him before shifting his attention towards his little elf. "Let''s get back you inside. You need to change into something more comfortable." He added before picking her up in his arms. Without sending off his remaining guests or even wishing them goodbye, he headed inside with his love.


    Katherine and Scott shared a look before heading back to their love nest.


    -----------


    "Where do you think you are going?" Taylor questioned his father who was on his way out.


    "What does it have to do with you?" Carston gave him a reply as he tried to light his cigar.


    "Since it''s Sunday, where else you could go if not for Amsterdam." Taylor added as his lips curled up in a devilish grin. He leaned against the wall of the corridor which was leading to the main door.


    "You shouldn''t concern yourself with my whereabouts. It''s better if you focus more on how to get a hold of that woman." Carston spoke up.


    "Oh! I will have her, but in my own time." Taylor replied as his eyes glinted in joy. He shifted his line of sight towards the wall clock and smiled wider. "You should leave, or else you might be late for your date with your dead girlfriend." He added before walking away.


    Carston felt his blood boil at the way his bastard son had addressed her, but he wasn''t wrong. She was dead, she had been long dead, and it was his own fault. He headed outside where his driver was already waiting for him.


    ----------


    Amsterdam,


    A black Maybach pulled over before the graveyard. Carston stepped out of the car, clad in an all black three piece suit. He had a bouquet of freshly cut, long stemmed red roses in his one hand, while the other one held an umbrella. His driver stayed back with the car as he headed inside on his own, just like every single time.


    His steps carried him on their own towards his destination, as if they were too familiar with the way. He followed the concrete path which was running in between different sections of graves, with slow yet steady steps. After a number of turns, his steps came to a halt before a familiar gravestone.


    Kneeling before the gravestone, he placed the bouquet before it. He took out a clean handkerchief form the inner pocket of his coat and wiped off the small dust particles which was resting on the white marble, even though they were barely visible to a human eye.


    His eyes teared up as his calloused fingers traced the golden letters engraved in the stone.


    ''I am so sorry. You would have been alive if it wasn''t for my selfishness. I would have been able to see you smile with my own eyes if it wasn''t for me. You would have been able to see your child grow up if it wasn''t for me. I haven''t been able to forgive myself even after all these years. I don''t think that I ever will be. I don''t think that I deserve to even ask for forgiveness, but please forgive me.'' He thought to himself. He had always wanted to say this out loud, but he could never gather the courage to do so.


    *********


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 Chapter 185 - Amsterdam (2)

    ''I am so sorry. You would have been alive if it wasn''t for my selfishness. I would have been able to see you smile with my own eyes if it wasn''t for me. You would have been able to see your child grow up if it wasn''t for me. I haven''t been able to forgive myself even after all these years. I don''t think that I ever will be. I don''t think that I deserve to even ask for forgiveness, but please forgive me.'' He thought to himself. He had always wanted to say this out loud, but he could never gather the courage to do so.


    His fingers lingered over the golden letters, ''Rosaline Martin'', as a lone tear managed to escape his eyes. His thoughts drifted back to the sorrowful day.


    -----------


    *FLASHBACK*


    Ethan''s work mate was throwing a party for his daughter, he had invited him along with his family. Rosaline wanted to accompany her husband and daughter but she had not been feeling well that day since early in the morning. Even though she requested Ethan again and again to take her with them, he had refused to give into her demands. For him, the party wasn''t more important than her comfort.


    "Why can''t I go with you two?" She questioned him only to be turned down again.


    "Because you aren''t well. And don''t even try to fool me by saying that you are well. I can clearly see your pale face without my glasses." Ethan refused to agree with her.


    "Dad?" A soft, angelic voice interrupted their argument as an eleven year old girl appeared at the doorway of their room.


    "Yes, sweetheart?" Ethan replied, his lips curled up in a wide smile as his eyes landed on his angel who was walking towards them.


    He wrapped his arms around her small figure and hugged her. "Why aren''t you ready?" He asked her as he carried her towards her mother.


    "I don''t want to go to the party. There will be too many big people. And I don''t like their children either." She pouted her lips.


    "If you don''t want to go, then it''s alright. You can stay back here with your Mom and look after her. Will you do that for me?" He asked her softly.


    "Ahan!" She bobbed her head up and down. "I will keep an eye on her."


    "That''s like my little angel." Ethan kissed her cheeks before putting her down on the floor.


    Rosaline stood there quietly as she looked at the father and daughter duo who were pairing up against her. She really wanted to go to the party, it had been so long since she went to one. A mischievous smile appeared on her face which vanished soon as an idea popped in her mind.


    ~~~


    "Boss, we have an update. He will be going on his own. His wife and daughter will be staying back." One of his lackeys spoke after barging inside his room.


    "Are you sure?" Carston asked him. He needed to make sure that Ethan would be all alone, so that he could ask his lackeys to put the plan in motion.


    "Yes, Boss. I am more than sure. He just called his friend to inform him that he will be the only one to attend the party." His lackey answered him. They had tapped all the phones being used in that house. Every time a call was made or received, they would know about it and could hear the conversation, loud and clear.


    "Good! Put our plan in motion, and make sure you guys don''t mess it up." Carston added before shifting his attention to the desktop placed in one corner of the room. After his man had left the room, he picked up his wallet which was resting next to the screen. His gaze softened as his eyes landed on the picture of a girl smiling brightly, her features resembling Stella''s.


    "Soon you will be mine, Rosaline." He muttered to himself.


    ~~~


    "Why are you so dressed up?" Ethan narrowed his eyes while observing his wife.


    "Darling, I am fine now. I took all of my medicines on time and look, my complexion is all better." She replied to him, pointing towards her own face.


    "Why don''t you listen to me?" Ethan questioned her.


    "I just want to go with you. And I haven''t been to a party in so long." She pursed her lips in a pout as she wrapped her arms around his waist.


    Looking at her sulking expression, he heaved out a tired sigh. "Alright! But I have one condition. You will tell me right away if you feel the slightest of discomfort and we will leave the party."


    "I agree." She muttered softly before peppering his face with kisses. "What about Stella?" She asked him in between her kisses. "Should I ask her to get ready?"


    "Nah! Our little angel doesn''t like parties, unlike you. We can drop her off at your friend''s house, it''s in the same direction anyways. Ethan suggested to which she agreed right away.


    Half an hour later, a silver car drove out the garage of a house situated in a well developed area.


    ~~~


    "Ethan?" Rosaline muttered softly next to his ears.


    "Yes, my love?" He smiled sweetly at him as he took a sip of his orange juice.


    "Can we go home now?" She asked him.


    "Are you feeling okay?" He couldn''t help but worry about her.


    "No, I am alright, hon. It''s just the party is too boring. And I miss our little angel." She replied giving him an assuring smile.


    "You are the one who wanted to tag along me." He shook his head at her sudden change of mind. "You really are something."


    "Oh, come on! You were completely smitten by this something in high school, weren''t you?" She pecked his lips.


    "I couldn''t argue with you on that. I am gonna go and bid goodbye to my friend, you stay here. And don''t you dare to drink behind my back, not even a small sip." He reprimanded her before going away from their table.


    As soon as Ethan left, her expressions changed. The mind-blowing smile was replaced by a worrisome expression. She had been feeling restless right after arriving at the place. Her thoughts kept drifting back to Stella.


    Closing her eyes, she mumbled a silent prayer. ''Let her be fine.''


    A little while later, a silver car drove away from the underground parking of the tall building. As soon as it hit the road, a black Bentley began to follow it. Because of the tinted glasses of both the cars, nobody could see inside.


    "Are you sure that you are okay?" Ethan asked her. He was starting to get worried now as he looked at her restless expressions. "We can go to the hospital first before picking Stella up."


    "No, no. I am fine. Let''s pick her up and get back to our home." Rosaline responded as she looked at the red signal through the tinted glass window.


    Carston looked at the silver car through the tinted windshield of his Bentley which was parked at the side of the road, a few meters away.


    *FLASHBACK ENDS*


    *********


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 Chapter 186 - Confession

    Carston put away his handkerchief after cleaning the gravestone, making sure that there wasn''t a single speck of dust covering it. He wiped off his tear which had managed to escape his eyes, with the back of his free hand.


    He glanced at his wrist watch to check the time before standing up back on his feet. His eyes fell on the adjacent stone, a bitter smile embracing his thin lips.


    ''You brat! Weren''t you satisfied with spending all those years with her? You even had to take her with you in the after life.''


    He began to walk away from the two graves, his steps tracking the same path he had come. As he was about to exit the graveyard, his eyes fell on the graveyard keeper who was busy tending to one of the graves a few feet away from him. He called out to him as he began to look for something inside his pockets.


    The man stopped whatever he was doing and walked up to him, stopping at a distance of a meter away from him. He politely greeted the man who was impeccably dressed. Though he didn''t know the man in person, but he was way too familiar with his face.


    Carston fished out a thick wad of cash from his wallet and handed it to him. "Continue taking good care of those two graves." He muttered before walking out of the place.


    ---------


    "Are you sure you are okay?" Adam couldn''t help but worry about her. She had been acting weird after Scott and Katherine had left in the morning. She refused to leave his side, not that he minded it, but it was out of place for her usual self.


    "Yeah!" She nodded her head in a yes as she picked up a file from his desk. She was about to turn around and leave when Adam grabbed her hand, stopping her in her tracks.


    "Come here." He asked her softly and made her sit on his lap.


    "What''s wrong? And don''t think about answering me with ''nothing'' this time." Adam glared at her.


    "I-I-I¡­.." She started to stutter under his scrutinizing gaze.


    "Stella?" He called her name with tenderness.


    "I think I don''t show it to you." She finally gathered up the courage to speak what was on her mind.


    "Show me what?" Adam couldn''t comprehend what she meant by ''it''.


    "How much you mean to me." She answered him, her eyes set on her knotted fingers which were resting in her lap.


    Adam felt his heart melting at her confession. He hugged her tightly, trapping her in between his arms. "You silly fool." He muttered next to her ear. "You don''t need to show anything to me, I already know it. All you need to do is to be with me."


    His reply made her smile, making her to let go of her worries.


    "I don''t want you to worry over such trivial things, even again. Got it?" He added to which she responded with a couple of nods. "And I forgot to mention it to you, there''s a party later on tonight, and I need to show my face there. Will you go with me?" He continued as he tucked a couple of stray hairs behind her ear.


    "Of course." She smiled at him before placing a feather like kiss on his lips. As she was about to draw her lips back, Adam placed a hand on the base of her neck. Holding her face in place, he deepened their kiss.


    ---------


    "I am done, let''s go." Stella exclaimed, walking down the staircase. Although her foot was doing much better now, but Adam was adamant about not letting her wear heels. So, she decided to go for a short creamy frock and paired them with a pair of matching wedges. She didn''t forget to wear the sunflower pendant that Adam had given her. She kept her make up light but went with a dark maroon shaded lip color. It was a party, there was no way she would look like a bore.


    "Why do women take so long to get ready?" Adam asked, shaking his head.


    "Because ... we are women." Stella replied, sticking her tongue out. She made her way to him and hugged his arm. "Shall we go now?"


    "Yes, my lady." He placed a kiss on top of her head.


    --------


    "You said it''s a party. I am getting bored here." Stella complained as she looked around her.


    Soft, soothing music was being played in the background by a band. Big illuminated chandeliers hung from the ceiling, brightening up the entire hall. The vast hall was decorated with off-white drapes and covers. A crystal vase rested in the centre of each table, supporting a bunch of pale and pink roses.


    All and all, the placed was more suitable for a fancy recital or a small engagement ceremony rather than a party.


    Adam chuckled looking at her aggrieved expression. "This is what party looks like for the elites."


    "They should just call it a boring meeting of big people instead of a party." She puckered her lips.


    Adam let out a hearty laugh at her remarks. Before he could comment on her current state, a girl walked up to their table and introduced herself.


    "Good evening, Mr. Levinson. I am Clara, Clara O''Neil. My father is the one who hosted this party." She put forward her hand which was completely ignored by Adam. He just politely nodded at her response with a blank expression. The smile on his face was long gone and replaced by a scowl. He was obvious of the stares this woman was giving him all this while, but he turned a blind eye to it as he was more amused by his little elf''s remarks.


    Just because he was smiling and laughing, unlike his usual self, didn''t mean that anyone could approach him. Moreover, this woman had the guts to interrupt his time with his beloved.


    The woman stood there quietly, not knowing what to do after she had been ignored by Adam so badly. Her two friends were standing close to the table and could hear their conversations easily. She looked at her which was suspended in the air and took it back, her eyes darting everywhere but at Adam.


    Adam thought that she might go back to her friends when he saw her drawing her hand back,  but he was so wrong. The shameless woman refused to give up this easily and sat down on the empty chair next to his and tried to strike up a conversation with him.


    "Dad told me about the new project that he is looking forward to sign with the Levinson''s Corp. I mean since I am the Vice President of the company, he was bound to tell me about it." She began to about herself non-stop, completely ignoring the existence of another person who was sitting right next to Adam.


    Adam was about to ask her to shut her babbling mouth and leave as he held no interest in her or her Dad. He could feel the death glares that were being thrown by Stella at her. He was about to shoo the pestering fly off him, but stopped when and idea cropped up in his devilish mind. He had never seen Stella getting jealous, it wasn''t too late for that, was it?


    *********


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 Chapter 187 - How To Cut A Diamond? (1)

    Adam was about to ask her to shut her babbling mouth and leave as he held no interest in her or her Dad. He could feel the death glares that were being thrown by Stella at her. He was about to shoo the pestering fly off him, but stopped when and idea cropped up in his devilish mind. He had never seen Stella getting jealous, it wasn''t too late for that, was it?


    "Adam?" Clara called his name slowly, seductively bashing her fake lashes, when she didn''t hear a reply from him.


    Adam who was lost in his own thoughts, came out of his dream world when he heard his name. Realizing that it was the shameless woman sitting next to him, he furrowed his brows before questioning her. "Were you saying something? I didn''t get much of it?"


    The woman''s face flushed in embarrassment when she registered his blatant words. It was obvious that the man couldn''t care less about what nonsense she was spouting. She was about to give up on trying to converse with him, but what she heard next, gave her some courage and changed her mind to give.


    "Are you alright, Miss?" Adam asked her. Even though his voice was devoid of any emotion and his face was as blank as an untouched art paper, his mere plain words of ''concern'' were enough to make her heart do a somersault in joy.


    "Uh--Y-yes." She replied, tucking a lock of her hair behind her ear.


    Adam cleared his throat as he tried to suppress the smile which was threatening to embrace his lips. He could feel the shift in the direction of the death glares. Earlier, they were being directed towards the woman but after his query, they were being directed at him. ''Let''s see how long can you stay quiet.'' He smirked inwardly.


    "I couldn''t quite catch your name, miss, what was it?" He asked her as one corner of his lips raised up.


    "Clara, Clara O''Neil." The woman replied to him gracefully. She was taken aback by his charms. He heard so much how the personality of the Adam Levinson, but having a bite of it in person, was definitely something else.


    "Clara. A lovely name for a lovely lady." He gave her a polite smile.


    Stella who was watching the woman from the moment she had come to their table, felt her blood began to boil when she saw that Adam was replying to her. It was out of his usual self. ''May be he really finds her attractive.'' A thought popped into her mind and she felt something crushing her heart. Pushing that hurtful thought aside, she clenched her fists.


    ''No, no, no. It''s not the right time to think like that. I need to do something to send that pestering fly away from my man.'' She gathered up her courage.


    Picking up her wine glass from the table, she took a sip before setting her eyes on her target.


    "I am looking forward to working with you." The woman, named Clara, added giving him a bashful smile. "Dad praises you all the time. He''s right to do so. You aren''t even half of his age, and yet you have achieved so much, that too in such a small amount of time." She continued to talk even though Adam was barely paying her any attention. All of his attention was on the woman sitting next to him, adorning a cream colored frock.


    He felt the chair next to him move. He could see her silhouette move from the corner of his eye. He was expecting her to interrupt the woman who was spouting God knows what nonsense. But to his disappointment, she walked passed by them towards the other end of the hall where the band was playing. His eyes trailed her movements, not leaving her slender figure even for a single moment.


    He saw her walking up to the band leader and mutter something. The band leader frowned as her words made their way into his ears, but not long after he nodded his head, probably agreeing with whatever she had told him.


    All this while, Stella only had one thing in her mind. ''When you need to cut a diamond, you use a diamond.'' When she turned around, her eyes met with Adam''s who was glaring at her. But she could see that he was curious at the same time. She shifted her gaze away from him and walked towards a long counter where some light snacks were served.


    The music echoing inside the hall changed. Though it was slow as well but one could dance to it.


    She picked a small acrylic plate for herself and passed it to the waiter who was standing on the other side of the counter. She asked him to serve her some cheese balls who complied with her wishes. She picked up a small fork and began to enjoy her food.


    Adam was observing her movements all this while, her actions confusing him. ''What is she up to?'' He thought inwardly. Seeing what was happening on the other end of the hall, his gaze darkened as realization dawned on him. She was trying to beat him at his own game. Little did he know, he had already lost half of this game as his attention was diverted from that blabbermouth woman.


    "I was hoping to see you two here." A voice interrupted him, making him turn his face to his right where a couple was standing, Katherine and Scott.


    Katherine was in a jovial mood which was obvious by the smile resting on his face. But her bright mood was ruined the moment her eyes landed on the woman sitting next to him.


    Looking at her darkened expression, Adam began to explain. "She is over there." He added pointing his chin towards the counter.


    Katherine moved her glaring eyes in the direction he was pointing at. She relaxed a bit when she saw her standing on her while enjoying her food.


    "What is she doing there?" She questioned Adam making him gulp a mouthful of saliva in anxiousness. There were only two women in this world who could make him feel him queasy. One was Stella, his girlfriend, and the other was Katherine, who was like an elder sister to him.


    He looked towards Scott who was standing next to her with his arm resting around Katherine''s waist, silently asking him for his help. But his so called ''friend'' just shrugged his shoulders at his silent pleading before turning his attention to the woman in his arms.


    Adam glared at his friend who had betrayed him so easily, but his expressions took a 180¡ã shift when he heard her voice again.


    "I am still waiting for your answer. What is she doing there all alone? And why are you sitting here with this b***h?" Katherine threw a series of questions at him, not forgetting to send a deathly glare towards Clara.


    Clara, who was sitting there with a confused expression marring her face, was at a loss for words. She wasn''t stupid enough to not recognize Katherine. But was confused her more was how she was treating Adam and moreover he was allowing her to treat him like that. The Adam Levinson she knew about wouldn''t let anyone treat him like this. ''Moreover, who exactly is that woman?'' She thought to herself as her eyes moved on their own to look at her.


    Stella was enjoying her cheese balls as she looked at the scene unfolding before her eyes from a distance. She couldn''t hear their conversation but it wasn''t hard to tell by their expressions that Katherine was giving Adam a hard time.


    *********


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 Chapter 188 - How To Cut A Diamond?(2)

    Stella was enjoying her cheese balls as she looked at the scene unfolding before her eyes from a distance. She couldn''t hear their conversation but it wasn''t hard to tell by their expressions that Katherine was giving Adam a hard time.


    She giggled, covering her mouth with the back of her free hand. She asked the waiter to add some more cheese balls in her plate. ''Damn! Why does these cheese balls tastes so good?'' She stuffed another one in her mouth. Before her fork could reach for another one, a voice interrupted her.


    "You sure are a fan of cheese."


    She turned her head slightly to her left and found a man standing there. He was dressed in a black three piece suit with a pair of matching boots. An off-white folded handkerchief was neatly placed in his coat''s pocket.


    "And you don''t look like a fan of cheese." Stela replied before shifting her attention back to the mouth-watering delicacy in her plate.


    The man chuckled and took a step towards her. He picked up a fork from the table and went for one of the cheese balls on her plate.


    "When did I say that?" He muttered, giving her a smirk.


    "I think you should leave, Mister. It''s rude to disturb others, especially when they don''t know you." She added before turning her attention back towards the table where Adam was sitting. She could see him burning with rage as he bore his eyes into the man.


    "Weren''t you trying to make him jealous, Ms. Stella?" The man added, giving her a smile. "I could help you with that."


    Stella gaped at him, her eyes popping out of their sockets and her jaw hanging low. "H-how do you know that? And how do you know my name? I am sure that we are meeting for the first time." She mustered up her courage.


    "You don''t need to worry about me, I won''t harm you." He gave her a genuine smile. "Let''s just say that we have a mutual friend. And I would love to help you with executing your plan."


    "How do I know you aren''t some crazy stalker?" Stella gave him a doubtful look.


    "I know whom I shouldn''t mess with and Mr. Levinson definitely tops my list. Moreover, I am not even interested in girls." He replied as he picked up another cheese ball with his fork before shoving it inside his mouth.


    "Y-you are ¡­ g-g-ay?" She added while stuttering, a faint blush spreading through her cheeks.


    The man let out a throaty laugh. "Umm¡­ more like bisexual. But I do have a male partner these days, and you know him."


    "I know him?" She gave him a questioning look to which he nodded. Her mind went into overdrive as she thought about who it might be. There were many males she was acquainted with. ''Scott and Blake can''t be bisexual, moreover they are already with someone. Who else it could be then? Who else do I know? Waittttt...''


    "Does his name starts with a ''W''? And he is a doctor?" She narrowed her eyes at him only to get another nod from him.


    Her eyes widened in shock as she tried to get her thoughts straight.


    He flicked his fingers before her eyes to get her out of her shocked state. "He is bisexual like me too. We met each other last year for the first time. I thought it might be our last as well, but fate had something else for us. We met again a few days back when you guys were in Greece. And we kinda ¡­ clicked."


    "So¡­. You guys are like a thing now?" Stella asked him softly, making sure to keep her voice low.


    "Yeah!" He answered her honestly as he scratched the back of his head.


    "Awww! Are you blushing? That''s so cute." Stella jumped a little in excitement, regretting it the very next moment. A faint pain in her right leg caused her to wince a little.


    Seeing her distorted expressions, the man became worried and looked at her right foot which wasn''t properly placed on the floor. He shook his head and went down on his knee. "Hold on to the counter for support." He asked her before grabbing her foot and taking off her wedge sandal off her foot.


    Stella yelped in surprise at his actions but still to him.


    Adam who was watching this form the distance had a threatening look on his face, while Katherine and Scott had a smirk adorning on their faces. According to them, he deserved this.


    "Hey! What are you doing?" Stella asked him as she couldn''t comprehend his actions.


    "It will hurt a little." He murmured softly making her confused.


    He grabbed her ankle and twisted it at an angle, causing a stinging pain in her ankle. "I''m sorry." The man apologized to her before putting her sandal back on her foot. "Wait for a minute." He muttered as he stood up, straightening his coat.


    Slowly, the pain in her foot, began to subside. She tried moving it when the pain died down. To her surprise, she could move it in all directions without flinching. She looked up at him in surprise. "What did you do?"


    "I used to sprain my ankle a lot while I was learning kickboxing, so I learned this little trick. Don''t try this yourself, you may end up making the pain worse." He replied to her.


    "I didn''t get your name, if you don''t mind." Stella asked him.


    "Blythe, Blythe Jameson. At your service." He added with a dramatic small bow, making her giggle.


    "Is he still looking here?" He asked her.


    Stella was at a loss for words when she heard him. She frowned in confusion but soon realized what did he mean by his question. She bobbed her head up and down. "More like glaring daggers at your back."


    Blythe chuckled at her answer. "If he comes after me, don''t forget to save this humble man."


    "He knows you, doesn''t he? Her sudden remark was more of a statement. It was only then she realized that he has been standing in a way all this while that his back was facing towards the table Adam was sitting at.


    "Don''t worry. I have got your back." She added sarcastically, making him shake his head at her idea of sarcasm.


    "Isn''t it time to deliver the final blow?" Blythe asked her, making her eyes glint with mischief.


    She extended her hand towards him while pointing towards the stage where only a few couples were dancing to the soft melody that the band was playing. "Shall we?" She asked him with a bright smile, making sure that Adam could see her hand and smiling face.


    Blythe took hold of her hand and guided her to the stage like a true gentleman. All this while he made sure to keep looking at Stella so that Adam couldn''t see his face, or else the game would be over. Once they were in the center of the stage, he twirled her around once while turning himself around so that his back was facing Adam. He caught her in his arms but made sure to keep a distance between them.


    Wilson had told him about her a couple of times. He adored her like her own sister. As for him, he had nothing but respect for her. Even though she was just Adam''s secretary, her business sense was way too good for someone of her age.


    *********


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 Chapter 189 - The Beautiful Girl With A Beautiful Name

    Wilson had told him about her a couple of times. He adored her like her own sister. As for him, he had nothing but respect for her. Even though she was just Adam''s secretary, her business sense was way too good for someone of her age.


    He placed his left hand on the back of her shoulders, while his right one held onto her hand. He swayed her slowly to the soft melody being played in the background. Stella let him guide her through the dance since she knew that she was too bad at it.


    Adam who was watching them from the distance began to see red everywhere. His anger was rising, building up with their every away. His eyes were focused on Stella''s smiling face. The way she threw her head back every time she laughed was something he was fond of, but at the moment, it was causing him an immense amount of discontent.


    He couldn''t take it anymore and finally stood up from his seat, smacking his fist into the table. He made his way towards the center of the stage where the two were dancing in long strides. He slowly tapped on the shoulder on the man and was ready to punch him right across his face but dropped the idea of doing so when he finally saw his face. There was contented expression on his familiar face.


    "Good evening, Mr. Levinson." He greeted her with a polite smile resting on his face.


    Before he could reply to her, a faint giggling sound made its way to his ears. His gaze shifted to his naughty little elf who was trying so hard to stifle the laughter threatening to escape her throat.


    He clenched his fists in annoyance when he realized that it was a trap and he had walked right into it. His eyes shifted back to the man, giving him a threatening glare. "Next time, dance with your own partner."


    "My partner does not like such events. I think you know it better than I do." Blythe smiled at him as he stepped towards his left, silently asking him to take his position.


    Adam narrowed his eyes at him one more time before giving him a smug look. "Off you go." He muttered to him before taking his previous position.


    Stella, who still trying so hard to control her laughing, felt her hand being tugged at before a pair of muscular arm enveloped her.


    She looked up, only to find a pair or gray eyes already looking at her. She smiled as she stepped closer to him, wrapping her hands around his neck.


    "What happened to the beautiful girl with a beautiful name?" She questioned him as her lips curled up in a mischievous grin.


    "The only beautiful girl I know who has a beautiful name, is in my embrace right now, dancing with me." He replied, gazing back into her hazel orbs.


    Stella let out a chuckle as she buried her face at the base of his neck. "Don''t try to pull that stunt again." She warned him as the duo moved to the soft melody.


    ---------


    "Good job, Stella. That was really amazing." Katherine spoke up as soon as the couple sat back. The girl named Clara, was nowhere to be found. After being humiliated like this, how could she even manage to stay here any longer. The moment Adam left the table, she decided to leave as well, making sure that Katherine didn''t have her eyes on her.


    "Thank you for giving him a hard time." Stella smiled back at her.


    "Don''t even mention it. I have always got your back girl." Katherine winked at her.


    "Don''t mind me asking, but I thought you guys would have gone back to Amsterdam." Stella questioned the couple. The two of them had agreed that they would spend half of the weekdays in Amsterdam and the other half here as Scott''s company was there and the biggest and head branch of ''Sparkle'' in Berlin.


    "We were on our way there when I received a call from my secretary about this event. He had forgotten to mention it to me earlier." Scott shook his head in annoyance. "He''s becoming so forgetful these days."


    "It''s alright. He''s a man and has so much to look after." Katherine patted his shoulder.


    "Here you go." Adam spoke up, interrupting their conversation as he placed a glass filled with freshly squeezed orange juice before Stella.


    She frowned as her eyes landed on the crystal flute. She shifted her line of sight towards her man and glared at him. "This is a ''party''." She exclaimed in utter annoyance, stressing on the last word.


    Adam just shrugged in response and pushed the glass further close to her. "You have had enough drinks for today." He spoke up while picking up three glasses of red wine from the tray. He uttered a thank you to the waiter before passing two of them to Katherine and Scott, keeping one for himself.


    "You big bully." Stella muttered under her breath as she picked up the glass.


    Adam was about to retort when he felt his phone vibrating in his coat''s inner pocket. He had a habit of putting his phone on silent whenever he was out or at home. He took it out to see that it was a call from the project site. He furrowed his brows when he looked at the timing. Picking up the call, he spoke into the phone''s speaker only to hear a garbled response.


    He tapped on her shoulder to get her attention as she was too invested in conversing with Katherine. "The network here is bad. I need to take this call." He spoke softly into her ear when he as successful in getting her attention.


    Stella nodded in response, getting a peck on the side of her head before she saw him disappearing into the crowd.


    "What happened to him?" Katherine couldn''t help but ask her.


    "He had to take an important call." Stella answered her.


    "These men." Katherine muttered as her eyes shifted to Scott who was busy on his phone as well.


    "It''s alright Katty. They have to run their own empires. It''s not easy." Stella tried to make her understand.


    "I know that, Stella. It''s just, I hate it when these two ignore their own health." She hated it. "And guess what? My dear twin brother is the same as these two morons." She glared at Scott before grabbing his phone. "It''s Sunday! What did we talk about Sundays."


    When Stella saw her attention shifting towards Scott, she decided to enjoy her orange juice. She stopped a waiter who was passing by her table and asked him to bring some snacks for who politely bowed his head before her. She couldn''t comprehend the reason of her increased hunger since the past few days. It must be because of those supplements that Wilson prescribed me.'' She thought to herself. She wasn''t worried about putting on weight because she that her metabolism worked a bit faster than usual. She had always been a lean kid.


    On the other hand, Katherine was about to snatch his phone away, but her face became pale as her eyes darted towards the entrance of the room. She could recognize that face even in her sleep as it was the face who was responsible for her countless sleepless nights.


    *********


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 Chapter 190 - He Is My Ex-boyfriend

    On the other hand, Katherine was about to snatch his phone away, but her face became pale as her eyes darted towards the entrance of the room. She could recognize that face even in her sleep as it was the face who was responsible for her countless sleepless nights.


    She tried to calm herself down but failed. Her breath was becoming short with each second as she looked at him. Her eyes were becoming teary as she remembered that unfortunate night. Seven years of her selflessness ended like that. Even though she had moved on and she was more than thankful to the heavens above for having Scott as her partner, but it still hurt.


    Scott, who was waiting for his phone to be snatched away, felt her grip getting loose on his phone. He turned his head so that he could face her. He was about to let out a teasing remark but stopped himself from doing so when he saw her glazy eyes. He quietly observed her face while pursing her lips. Realizing that she was looking somewhere else, he followed her line of sight only to be greeted by the sight of a man.


    The man was dressed eloquently and was laughing wholeheartedly over something his partner had said. The woman in his arms was a beauty herself, dressed in a bright red halter neck dress which hugged her almost perfect figure. Her alluring figure was drawing the attention of the male species present there as her dress, which was stuck to her skin, didn''t leave much to imagine.


    He quietly shifted his eyes back to his woman only to find a complicated expression marring the flawless beauty of her face. There was no longing on her face but he could see hurt evident in her eyes. He could clearly guess of who that person could be.


    Her pained expression from their first meeting was still fresh in his memory. He remembered how she avoided him every time he made a move on her. He remembered those hesitant eyes when he asked her to trust her. He remembered how unwilling she was to be with him after knowing the truth about his identity.


    He let out a long sigh after reminiscing past. ''You have hurt her enough. Not anymore, and not on my watch.'' He moved his eyes back to his woman and patted her softly, careful of his actions.


    Katherine blinked a couple of times as she came back to the present. Feeling a little pressure on the back of her head, she turned her attention to the man who was responsible for it.


    "I''m sorry." She apologized while trying to avoid his heated gaze. She thought that he would inquire her about her lost state, but nothing of the sort happened.


    "What are you apologizing for?" He smiled at her and patted her head once again.


    "H-he is my-y ex-boyfriend." She muttered softly. Even though he hadn''t questioned her, it was his right to know about it. That is the reason why she decided to be forthcoming about it.


    "I know." He replied shortly.


    "You know?" She was a bit shocked when she saw how relaxed he seemed.


    "I can tell." He knocked on her forehead.


    "Katty, I expected better than you." Stella who was silently observing them from the sidelines, finally decided to speak her mind.


    Katherine and Scott, who were lost in their own world, finally realized that they were not alone.


    "Shut up, Stella." Scott reprimanded her like he would do to a small child for acting out of her place.


    "Hey, I am just saying what''s the truth. First of all, he''s not that good looking. Secondly, one look at him and even a blind person could tell the kind of pervert he is." Stella rolled her eyes before popping a cracker in her mouth.


    "Stella!" Scott glared at her as he was worried that her words might ruin Katherine''s mood, but to his dismay, she started to giggle.


    "Why do you think they say that love is blind?" She questioned Stella, a faint smile resting on his face.


    "Yes, but still. Him?" Stella narrowed her eyes at the man in question before continuing. "He is such a sleazeball that he tried to flirt with me before his father and Adam. He didn''t even try to be a bit discreet in doing so. And Adam had to step in to make him stop." She rolled her eyes, being the dramatic girl that she was. "I don''t even remember his name. B-Ben¡­"


    "Benjamin Phillip Brighton." Katherine completed her sentence.


    "Yeah, yeah." Stella nodded her head. She was wearing a bored expression on her face but it took a 180¡ã shift as her eyes began to shine with a mischievous glint.


    "You guys stay here and enjoy the show." She muttered as she stood up from her seat and made her way towards the entrance of the hall.


    "Stella! Stella, stop right there." She heard Scott yelling at her but she paid no attention to it and continued walking towards her destination. She saw a waiter passing by her, holding up a tray having some filled champagne flutes. Picking up two crystal glasses from the tray, she continued to walk towards him.


    She kept her head down, not wanting to be recognized before she could execute her plan.


    "Ouch!" She flinched as she lost her footing and slipped forward, deliberately. The two glasses in her spilled their content on the two people standing before her.


    "I-I-I am so sorry." She uttered and apology as soon as she realized what had happened. "I lost my footing." She continued to apologise as tried to clean the stain on the woman''s dress and in doing so, she spilled the remaining content on her as well.


    "Y-you." The woman, who was Benjamin''s date for the party, was seething in anger as she felt cold champagne dribbling down her body through her soaked dress. She was a top model of this country and never in her life she had gone through this much humiliation.


    "Are you blind? Can''t you see where you are going? The woman started to yell at her, garnering other people''s attention.


    "I said I am sorry. I lost my footing." Stella frowned at the woman before her.


    All this while Benjamin had her eyes set on Stella. He couldn''t care less about his coat or even about the dress of his date. All he cared about in that moment was about the lady who was standing before her dressed in a cream colored frock. He was about to lash out on her when she spilled her champagne on him. But stopped himself from doing so when he saw her face. How could he forget her? He still remembered the day he had laid his eyes on her for the first time.


    "It''s completely fine. I am sure it was just an accident." He spoke up, coming out of his trance.


    Before Stella could reply to him, the woman interrupted. "How could you say that? She deliberately did it. I know the likes of her, trying to get the attention of others. She must have taken a liking to you and did this to get your attention."


    *********


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 Chapter 191 - Black Eye

    "It''s completely fine. I am sure it was just an accident." He spoke up, coming out of his trance.


    Before Stella could reply to him, the woman interrupted. "How could you say that? She deliberately did it. I know the likes of her, trying to get the attention of others. She must have taken a liking to you and did this to get your attention."


    "I don''t think so. Look at her, she must belong to a good family." Benjamin smiled politely at her. Even though he was enjoying the fact that there might be a chance that Stella had done this deliberately and that she might be interested in him. He tried to act as humble as he could.


    "How can you say that honey? Who knows what kind of germs this lowlife brought to this place? It''s better to keep your distance from her." The woman dressed in red spoke up as she looked at Stella with hatred. She didn''t try to keep her voice down even a little bit. More and more people were shifting their attention towards the scene which was unfolding near the entrance.


    "Sweetheart, we can discuss it like educated people. There is no need to raise your voice and be unreasonable." Benjamin spoke softly to his date, trying to calm her down. He looked as if he was ashamed of what she was doing, which was creating a scene, but his expressions didn''t give his thoughts away. He was jumping internally, not being able to control his glee.


    He wanted her to continue this drama so that he could take Stella''s side and act like her savior. He was smirking inwardly as he could see that the victory was within his grasp.


    "If there is anyone who needs to be more reasonable is her. She needs to apologise to me properly and reimburse me for the damages she has caused." The model was in no way going to back down easily. She could see more and more eyes turning towards herself.


    ''A nobody tried to mess with one of the renowned models of Germany.'' She could already see tomorrow''s headlines popping before her eyes already.


    "What are you waiting for? Didn''t you hear me just now? Apologise to me and you have to pay for the damages as well." The model raised her voice a bit more and smirked.


    "Cara, honey. It''s completely fine. I will get you a new dress. There''s no need to trouble her." Benjamin tried to coo his date.


    More and more people were shifting their attention towards them.


    Scott looked at Katherine with a worried expression. "This girl, she hasn''t grown up even a little bit after all this time. You stay here, I will go and take a look." He was about to stand up but Katherine tugged at his hand, stopping him in his tracks.


    "I will go with you." She left her seat and followed him. Looking at the crowd that was gathered around those three, she was worried about what might happen to Stella.


    ''Where the hell are you Adam? What''s taking you so long?'' She silently cursed Adam as she quietly followed Scott.


    --------


    "What are you talking about?" Adam yelled at the person who was at the other end of the phone. The call was from the manager of the project site.


    "I am sorry, Boss. But that''s how things are here." The man on the other end replied to him.


    "How can a whole person go missing like that?" Adam question him, anger was evident in his voice.


    "I am sorry, Sir." The man who had somehow become the target of his anger, replied politely. This was the only thing he could do.


    "Tell me what exactly happened? Don''t leave out anything." Adam added as he rubbed his forehead with his free hand.


    "When we sent our man to pick up Mr. Parker, he wasn''t there at the airport. At first, we thought that his flight must be delayed but when we inquired the authorities about it, we realized that the flight was on time. We tried to call him again and again, but his phone was switched off." The man took a pause to take a deep breath before continuing.


    "We requested the airport security to show us the CCTV footage from when the flight has touched the ground. After watching the footage, we came to know that he was picked up my some people who were holding a sign of your company. We tried to track the car with the help of the information we obtained from the footage. But we didn''t find anything. The police is on board for this case as well. They managed to find a car resembling the one in which they took him. It was abandoned at an old warehouse."


    Adam was quiet for a while as he took in the information, trying to process it at the same time. After what seemed an eternity, he finally spoke up. "So, they ditched the car around an old warehouse. They must have changed to another one. These people are smart enough to do it in a place where there is no surveillance. It means we can''t take them as a joke. They are definitely professionals."


    "Yess, Boss. We are trying our best to cooperate with the police." The man replied humbly.


    "Cooperating with the police won''t get results. There are high chances that they will take ages to even locate him. And there are higher chances that they will find his body. You guys cannot look after a damn project sight, my man disappears right under your noses, and all you are doing is cooperating with the damn police department." Adam scolded him for his incompetence.


    Heaving out a long sigh, he continued. "Get your hands on the footage and send it to me. I will have a look at it. I will send some of my men there, cooperate with them and provide them with all the assistance they need. Do you get it?"


    "Yes, Boss." It was the only thing that the man could speak before Adam disconnected the call.


    ---------


    "Are you alright?" Katherine asked Stella as soon as the couple was able to approach her.


    It wasn''t easy for them to make their way through the crowd that had gathered around them because of the commotion.


    "Yeah, I am fine." Stella gave her a small smile before her eyes landed on Benjamin''s face. He looked as if he had seen a ghost, which was true in his case.


    His thoughts drifted back to the uneventful day when he was caught red-handed by her. It would have been okay if the girl before him wouldn''t have lashed out on him. She had dragged the woman he was with across the hall by her hair, throwing her out of the apartment in her naked state. And she wasn''t satisfied with that for she had returned back to his room and gave him a good beating.


    Benjamin winced as he remembered the black eye this woman had given him and the pain his body had to bear for days to come.


    "Well, well, well. Don''t tell me your owners are here to rescue you." The model named Cara added when she saw a woman coming to the rescue. She wasn''t able to see the face of the woman, or else she wouldn''t have had the guts to speak such nonsense.


    *********


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 Chapter 192 - Commotion

    "Well, well, well. Don''t tell me your owners are here to rescue you." The model named Cara added when she saw a woman coming to the rescue. She wasn''t able to see the face of the woman, or else she wouldn''t have had the guts to speak such nonsense.


    Katherine shifted her attention to the annoying pest as soon as her words reached her ears. "What did you say?" She gritted her teeth.


    Even though Scott was angry as well, but he decided to let Katherine handle the situation. He knew she was able enough to do so. He would only step in if only the situation turn out to be worse.


    "Oh!" The model felt her words getting stuck in her mouth when she saw who the savior of that meek woman was. She would have to be a fool, or even worse than that, to not recognize Katherine. After all, she was the owner of one of the leading fashion brands of their country, and her dresses were highly demanded by all the aristocratic ladies all over the world.


    "I-I-I am so sorry Ma''am, I didn''t see you there. I am a huge fan of you and your work." Cara tried to save the situation but it was already too late. Katherine couldn''t bear to hear a single bad word about Stella from Adam, let alone some random meek model. She could crush her in seconds if she wanted to, her career would turn to ashes with a single statement of hers.


    "Why are you apologizing to me? Apologise to her. She is the one whom you were trying to belittle, not me." Katherine raised her delicate eyebrow as she glared at her.


    "B-but Ma''am, she is the one who started this entire fiasco. She tried to fake a fall and spilled the champagne on us. And I know for a fact that she deliberately did this. You can even ask my boyfriend if you don''t trust me with it." Cara tried to act as humble and meek as she could, just so she could get the pity of all the people who were watching this scene. She could see that some of the women had taken out their phones and were recording this.


    "No, no, no. Why would I do it? We haven''t crossed paths before, I don''t even know you. Why would I have some evil motive against you?" Stella, who was standing there quietly and enjoying the show, finally spoke up, earning a glare from Scott.


    "Oh really? Because you took a liking towards my boyfriend. Or else why would you carry to champagne flutes for yourself. One look at you, and I could tell that you can''t handle alcohol well." Cara eyed her up and down.


    "Why would I drink two glasses?" Stella looked at her as if she was looking at a fool.


    "So you are finally accepting that it was your fault." Cara smirked at her.


    "Why would I when it wasn''t my fault to begin with? I told you that it was an accident and even apologized for it. And I don''t have the tiniest bit of interest in your boyfriend. He isn''t even that handsome. You should see mine. And in fact, the other glass was for him." Stella had had enough of this woman. ''Why is she dragging it so much? I''m getting tired with all this standing.''


    "Why can''t I see your boyfriend then? Is he some sort of an alien species, and only you can see him?" Cara sarcastically added before faking a small laugh. She realized that her date was standing way too quiet for her liking. It was then she realized that, his mind was somewhere else as he had his eyes set on Katherine.


    "Because he''s out there, taking a call. I was just taking the champagne for him because he''s been out there for too long, and it''s cold outside." Stella tried to sound considerate. She could hear a couple of ''awws'' coming from the crowd.


    "Nice try. I don''t want to drag it any longer than it has already been. Just apologise to me properly in front of everyone and pay for the damages you have done."


    "No, she won''t pay you even a single penny." Katherine interrupted to the two of them. "Isn''t this dress from my last year''s collection? It''s already out of fashion, so it must have not cost you too much. And as for the apology, didn''t she say she had already done that."


    "And I''m definitely sure that your boyfriend can at least afford to get you a new one from one of the latest collections. After all, he is the vice CEO of his father''s company." She added the final blow.


    Benjamin who was standing quietly after Katherine had come over, decided to speak up. "Let it go Cara. Don''t drag it too much."


    His reply made the model''s face scrunch in annoyance. ''How could this man take someone else''s side?''


    "I am not dragging it, they are honey. I am just demanding what''s right. Everyone here is watching me in my soaked state. It''s only right for her to apologise to me in front of everyone. I can turn a blind eye to whatever damage she did to my dress, but she needs to apologise." Cara can let go of the dress after what Katherine had said, but in no way she will let this little slut go without a proper apology after being so dramatic.


    ---------


    Adam heaved out a tired sigh after disconnecting the call. His mind was a wreck as he tried to think over things. Why would someone want to hurt his people? Why? The question was eating his mind, making him frustrated beyond his limits. He wouldn''t have minded if they had targeted his company, but why his man.


    He quietly walked up to his car after putting away his phone back his coat''s pocket. Fishing out the key, he unlocked it and opened the door of the passenger side. He took out a lighter and a sealed packet of cigarettes and a lighter. It''s been too long since he even touched one of these.


    Taking out one of the cigarettes from the box, he put it in between his teeth before throwing the box back inside the dashboard. He lit up his cigarette and took a long drag. Putting the lighter away in its original place, he unlocked the car. A couple of drags later, he felt himself relax a bit as the smoke filled his lungs, the nicotine calming his nerves down.


    When he was done with it, he threw the burnt cigarette butt in a nearby trash bin after extinguishing it out. He cursed himself for not keeping a breath mint on him. He was sure that Stella is gonna give him an earful. Hoping for the best for himself, he began to head back towards the hall.


    As soon as he took a step inside, his gaze drifted towards the commotion which was happening close to the entrance. He shook his head sideways and decided to turn a blind eye to it. Not that it concerned him anyways. He had only taken a step further when he stopped as a familiar voice entered his ears.


    "I am not apologizing to you or anyone else. You are the one who dragged it this much. I remember saying sorry to you right away after it happened."


    His feet took him to the crowd on their own. He stopped at a small distance from the crowd.


    "What''s going on here?" His firm voice resonated through the hall even though he wasn''t too loud.


    The murmuring of the crowd died down as people shifted their attention to the owner of the voice. The guests parted to the sides to give him clear access to see what was going on. Nobody wanted to be in the line of sight of the Adam Levinson.


    *********


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 Chapter 193 - My Woman

    "What''s going on here?" His firm voice resonated through the hall even though he wasn''t too loud.


    The murmuring of the crowd died down as people shifted their attention to the owner of the voice. The guests parted to the sides to give him clear access to see what was going on. Nobody wanted to be in the line of sight of the Adam Levinson.


    As everyone was busy eyeing Adam, Stella was muttering prayers under her breath. She was thankful to the heavens above somewhere in her heart that he was here. But at the same time she was worried thinking about what might happen to her after this. She knew that he was going to scold her after he settles this.


    "Oh! Help me, God." She muttered under her breath softly, keeping her voice so low that it was barely a whisper.


    "What''s going on here?" Adam repeated his question when nobody bothered to answer him.


    The model named Cara, smiled a bit for merely a second before changing her expression back to pitiful. She cursed her boyfriend internally as her greedy eyes landed on Adam. She could see her knight in shining armor in him. She would have to live under a rock like Patrick, the starfish, from the show SpongeBob, to not know who Adam was. She was going to put her best act on, just to melt his heart. No matter how tough he usually acted, a man can''t see a damsel in distress and stop himself from rescuing her.


    "I will tell you what happened here, Sir." She spoke up, her voice barely audible to the people surrounding them as she tried to make herself look more pitiful. "This woman here, did this to me." She pointed towards Stella and then back to herself. "After that she created this ruckus, and now she refused to pay for the damage she had done to my dress and apologize to me." She blinked her eyes a couple of times as if she was holding back her tears.


    Stella rolled her eyes at her, not bothering to explain herself to the fool. But she had to agree that she was a damn good actor. What was she doing in the modeling industry?


    Seeing that Adam had arrived at the scene, Katherine walked up to where Scott was standing and hugged him. Not paying attention to what was happening around them.


    Adam heaved out a long, tired sigh as he rubbed the spot in between his brows. He walked close to where the two women were standing, one looking at him with hopeful eyes while the other was barely paying him any attention.


    Cara could feel that the victory was with her grasp when she was his enraged expressions. She was jumping internally as couldn''t control her happiness. But Oh Lord! She was so, so wrong.


    Adam walked up to Stella and wrapped an arm around her lower back.


    "Are you alright?" He asked Stella softly. His worried expression and his soft, tender voice, shook people to their very core, especially a certain someone.


    Stella nodded her head slightly as she hugged him back, resting her head on his shoulder.


    Their closeness was enough of a proof for the people surrounding them to know how close they were. Everyone present there only had one thought in their minds. ''Adam is the boyfriend this girl was talking about.''


    "What happened here?" Adma questioned the woman in his arms, clearly showing that he couldn''t care less what the other party involved had to say.


    Stella explained the entire thing to him slowly, pursing her lips in a pout at the end.


    Adam looked at the two people who were standing across him, narrowing his eyes at them. "Mr. O''Neil." He called out, his voice firm and resolute.


    A man who was in his early fifties, stepped forward from the crowd wearing a worried expression on his face.


    "I only came to this party because I respect you as a person and as my elder. But I wouldn''t have if I knew that I have a high chance of running into pests like these two." Adam pointed towards Benjamin and Cara with his chin before continuing. "These two had the guts to mess with ''my woman'' on such a trivial thing. Next time, make sure such people aren''t invited to your parties if you want me to come." He added the latter part a bit politely as he really respected the old man. But he didn''t forget to stress on the words ''my woman'' for everybody to hear it clearly.


    The old man could only nod while cursing those two idiots for not only ruining his party but ruining Adam''s mood.


    "Let''s go back to home, sweetheart." Adam added as he looked at Stella, smiling a little as he looked at her tenderly.


    Stella nodded her head, agreeing with him as she returned his smile with her own.


    The duo walked out of the hall under the scrutinizing gaze of the crowd.


    "That was awesome." Stella couldn''t help but give him a thumbs up for saving her lousy arse back there, still clinging to his figure.


    "Nobody can mess with my woman." His words brought a smile on her face again but it didn''t last for long when she heard his next sentence. "Except for me."


    Judging from the way he was looking at her, she knew that she was in deep trouble. Like deep, deep trouble. "I am sorry." She added meekly. Knowing him, there was no way to even try to deny that she didn''t pulled that stunt off deliberately.


    "What if the call would have taken long and I wouldn''t have arrived there in time?" He narrowed his eyes at her before pinching her cheek a little hard.


    "Eeeee! I just knew that you would arrive just in time to save your damsel." She winked at him while rubbing her cheek.


    Adam let out a chuckle as he kissed the top of her head at her cuteness. How could he resist her when she was being so cute.


    Getting inside the car, Adam was about to ask her where she would like to go for dinner but Stella beat him to it.


    "Where would you like to go for dinner? Someplace where we can have our privacy and where you can tell me what''s bothering you?"


    Her words shocked him a little, especially the latter part. How did she know about it? How did she guess so perfectly that there was something troubling his mind?


    "You can choose the place, my love. And there''s nothing bothering me?" He replied to her after gaining his composure back.


    "Oh really? Then can you please explain to me why do you smell like you just had a cigarette?" She smiled at him.


    "I-I ran into a friend who offered me one, so I took a drag. That''s all." Adam cleared his throat and answered her. He turned on the ignition of the car and asked Stella again about her preference for dinner.


    "Drive the car to that spot there." She added while point towards the far most corner of the parking lot. Adam was confused by her sudden demand but still listened to her nonetheless.


    *********


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 Chapter 194 - I Can Read You Like An Open Book

    "Drive the car to that spot there." She added while point towards the far most corner of the parking lot. Adam was confused by her sudden demand but still listened to her nonetheless.


    After parking the car at the said spot, he turned to look at her with curiosity. He saw her unfasten her seat belt and move to his seat. He looked at her smiling face as she straddled him, her knees resting on either side of his legs. Her fingers worked on his seat belt and unfastened it.


    "You do know that I know your childhood best friend." She skeptically looked at him. "So, I know that you started to smoke after your Dad left this world. Just like I know for a fact, that although you gave up on smoking but you still keep a packet in your car''s dashboard and one at home in the last drawer of your study desk, more precisely the left side of it. Oh! Did I mention the packet you keep at your office? I don''t think that I need to mention it''s location as well." She looked at him, the corners of her lips curled up in a proud smirk.


    Adam chuckled lightly, shaking his head. He''s definitely gonna kill Blake for spilling out his secrets.


    As if reading his thoughts, Stella narrowed her eyes at him, the smile on her face long gone. "You won''t say anything to him."


    "Alright, Ma''am. I won''t say even a single word to him." He raised his hands up in the air in defeat, before they went back to rest around her waist.


    "Good!" She exclaimed before continuing to explain the reason behind her absurd demand. "I also know why you keep those packets with you, Adam." She gazed into his gray orbs. "And I don''t need the smell of cigarettes coming from you for me to know that something is troubling you." She cupped her cheeks in between her small palms.


    "Are you forgetting that I can read you like an open book?" She questioned him to earn a lop-sided grin from him.


    "I just didn''t want you to worry." Adam replied to her, running his fingers through the locks of her hair, twirling their ends around his fingers.


    "Now, will you start talking? Or I have to force that out of you as well." She added, giving him a mischievous smirk.


    "Do you know Mr. Parker?" Adam asked her, bit answered his own question. "Our Vice President." When he saw her nodding her head in a yes, he explained the entire situation to him.


    "So, he is missing now." She exclaimed in shock. When she questioned him about what was bothering him, she expected an answer along the lines of a business deal going wrong or something that the company not being able to secure a project. But a missing person? That too the Vice President of his company? Never in her life.


    "Yeah! And the police there hasn''t made much progress regarding the case. Their search for him hit a dead end." He explained it to her.


    "He will be fine, Adam. I know you are worried about him. But you tiring yourself because if it won''t help him out. So, let''s just focus on it and try to think of ways to find him with a calm mind. I am sure your men will find him, they are more than capable to do so." She tried to buck him up.


    "It''s not him I am worried about. I may need to go there myself, I am more worried about leaving you here." He finally told her the reason behind his never ending worries.


    "That''s it?" She looked at him quizzically. That was it? The reason behind his worries which made him to have a smoke, was just that. "I can tag along with you. Simple as that. Problem solved." She smiled at him brightly but Adam shook his head in a no.


    "You won''t be going with me. You will stay back here like a good girl." He gave her a sad smile. The mere thought of leaving her back here was troubling him more than she or anyone else could imagine. The two of them hadn''t lived a single day apart from each other after she moved into his room. He was so used to having her around himself, that he was dreading the days he might have to spend away from her.


    "So, you aren''t worried about me staying back here, then what is it that you are so worried about?" She furrowed her brows, two small depressions forming in between them. "Wait! Are you actually sad because we will be apart?" Her eyes glowed with joy when she was finally able to put her finger on the reason behind his trouble. This man! She could just eat him. She pinched both of his cheeks as she was about to tease him but stopped herself when she saw his sulking expressions.


    "Hey?" She made him face her. "I will be just a call away. We can FaceTime each other daily before going back to bed. And moreover, I will always be here." She added the last sentence as she placed a hand over his heart.


    A smile appeared on Adam''s face as he placed a lingering kiss on her forehead. She sure knows how to put a smile on his face and definitely has her own ways to do that.


    "When do you have to leave?" She questioned him, burying her face in neck.


    "In the morning." He replied to her, heaving out a long, tired sigh.


    Stella smirked as sat up straight. "Let''s make the most of our time."


    "What do you¡­.." The rest of his words got stuck inside his throat as he gulped.


    "I meant this." She added mischievously as she continued to stroke his crotch.


    "S-Stella, don''t play with fire." Adam gritted his teeth, clenching his jaw as he tried his best to control himself. They were in a damn car. What has gotten into this woman?


    "Oh come on, don''t tell me that the idea of having sex in the car doesn''t turn you on like crazy." She murmured against his chin before grazing it with her teeth. "And the glasses are tinted." She added as she placed his hands over his shoulder, scooting closer to him.


    "Don''t you want to feel it, the thrill of doing it here?" She added, tracing her hand down to his broad, muscular chest. Her fingers could feel the toned muscles becoming taut under her touch.


    Adam shut his eyes tightly, trying to gather all of his self control not to take her then and there. But this didn''t stop Stella from acting out all brave. She trailed her hands further south, tracing his flexing abs. Her fingers finally stopped at the buckle of his belt. Adam heaved out a long sigh, thinking that she had finally stopped. But the peace of his mind didn''t last for long as her fingers began to move over his buckle, working their magic. After undoing his buckle, his fingers made their way to the button of his dress pants.


    *********


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 Chapter 195 - I Am Warning You

    *WARNING! The chapter contains R-18 content. You guys know the drill. Continue after the dotted lines.*


    Adam shut his eyes tightly, trying to gather all of his self control not to take her then and there. But this didn''t stop Stella from acting out all brave. She trailed her hands further south, tracing his flexing abs. Her fingers finally stopped at the buckle of his belt. Adam heaved out a long sigh, thinking that she had finally stopped. But the peace of his mind didn''t last for long as her fingers began to move over his buckle, working their magic. After undoing his buckle, his fingers made their way to the button of his dress pants.


    "Stella, I am warning you. Stop, or you won''t like it where this will go." Adam added, his eyes were still tightly shut. He was holding on to the sides of his seat. He could easily get her off him, but due to the restricted space, he held himself back as he didn''t want to hurt her.


    "What if that''s exactly what I will like?" She whispered next to his ear slowly while his fingers were undoing his zipper.


    She knew that she was playing with fire, but she wanted to take his mind off the situation at their hands. What better way is there to turn him on to achieve that. Of course, she didn''t mean to go through it completely.


    She tucked her hand inside his pants and stroked his member slowly. She could feel his little brother becoming bigger in her hand but she didn''t stop her movements.


    Adam hissed through his clenched teeth when he felt the blood of his entire body gushing towards his member.


    "You are enjoying it as well, aren''t you?" She added as she bit down on his earlobe before sucking it.


    The stinging sensation which was soon followed by the soothing licks of her tongue, made his member more hard. He licked his dry lips, trying to quench his thirst but to his helplessness, it further heightened his need to feel her lips on his own.


    "I want to eat some pizza."


    Her words rang through his ears and brought him out of his trance. He frowned as his mind registered what she meant by her words.


    "What did you say?" He gritted his teeth. "What do you want to eat?"


    "P-piz-za." She replied to him while stuttering through her words.


    "I thought it was me you wanted to have tonight." He glared at her. She took it this far, only to back off after making his member hard. There was no way he was going to let her off the hook this easily.


    "I chan-ged m-my mind." She replied to him, avoiding to look into his gray orbs which were boring holes into her head.


    She tried to get off him and move back to the shotgun seat, but he grabbed her waist and held her in place.


    "I warned you, didn''t I? It''s too late to back out now." He added, giving her a devilish grin.


    Swiftly, he got rid of his coat, throwing it on the other seat. He took his hardened member out of his boxers. "Aren''t you going to touch it now?"


    Her sinful eyes shifted to look at his hardened member as it stood in all its glory, in between his legs. The car was mostly engulfed in darkness, only a little amount of light coming from the lights of the parking lot was making its way inside through the tinted glass. Stella could barely make the outline of his hardened rod, but still gulped down a mouthful of saliva as her mind went into overdrive as all sorts of naughty thoughts started to pop in her mind.


    Never in her life she had thought about having sex with the love of her life in a car, that too in this position. She gathered all of her courage as she realized that it was too late for her back out and grabbed his rod with both of her hands. Remembering how she had pleased him last time using her hands, she began to move her fingers along the length of his shaft.


    A low groan resonated at the base of his throat when he felt her cold, dainty fingers pleasing him. His hands made their way under her knee length frock which was already pooling around her thighs. Trailing his rough fingers over her toned thighs, he pushed her dress further up so that it was barely covering her pelvic area. Looking at the peach colored, lacy panties which barely covered her flower, he felt his breathing stop. Especially when he saw the small wet spot in the centre of her panties, making them transparent.


    While he continued to enjoy the movement of her hesitant fingers over his hardened member, he slid her panties down, exposing the wet folds of her womanhood which was ready to spill it''s sweet nectar. All it was waiting for was his throbbing rod. He shoved his two fingers inside the opening of the prim flower, taking her by surprise and began to caress her insides.


    Stella moaned as the pleasing sensation seeped through her insides at the ministrations of his skillful fingers which were moving in and out of her as his thumb played with her sensitive, rosy bud.


    Adam grabbed her hands with his free hand, stopping her movements when he realized that she was ready to take him inside of her.


    Taking his fingers out her hot core which was oozing out her sweet nectar, he liked them clean. He grabbed her waist and picked her up, her arms resting on his shoulders. He slowly guided her down over his throbbing member. His eyes glazed with pleasure when he saw his length of his hardened rod, being eaten by the wet folds of her womanhood.


    He let her rest in his lap, giving her some time to adjust to the thickness of his throbbing member before he started to move his hips, thrusting deeper into her core with every shove. Stella grabbed his shoulders, tightly holding onto him for support as she felt him move in and out of her. She threw her head back in pleasure as she allowed him to explore the deepness of her core.


    ------------


    "You should have stayed back at home and rest." Adam spoke next to her ear, resting her chin on her shoulder as he hugged her from behind.


    The duo was standing before the glass wall of the VVIP waiting area which looked over the runaway. One could clearly see the private jet belonging to the Levinson''s Corp., getting ready for it''s take off.


    "I will go back home after your jet has taken off." She replied back as her hand found its way to his cheek.


    "Promise me that you go back home and rest." Adam demanded to her. There was no way that he would trust her for taking care of herself. After their last night''s activities, which continued even after they had returned to their home and lasted almost throughout the night, she definitely needed some rest. "And since I won''t be here for the next few days, you don''t need to go to the office. Just stay back at home and enjoy your vacation."


    *********


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 Chapter 196 - Parting

    "Promise me that you go back home and rest." Adam demanded to her. There was no way that he would trust her for taking care of herself. After their last night''s activities, which continued even after they had returned to their home and lasted almost throughout the night, she definitely needed some rest. "And since I won''t be here for the next few days, you don''t need to go to the office. Just stay back at home and enjoy your vacation."


    "How am I supposed to enjoy without you?" Stella pursed her lips in a sad smile as she leaned her head against his.


    "Well, you can give me a call whenever you want to. It will be a first time experience for both of us." He tried to coax her. Her wouldn''t be able to bring himself to leave if she continued to be this sad. Even the mere thought of her being sad in his absence was making him sad.


    He had made some early mornings calls after arriving at the airport, just to make sure that she wouldn''t feel too lonely without him.


    "At least I have your pillow." Stella gave him a haughty reply, earning his heartfelt chuckle in response.


    "Oh! I do have your lacy, peach colored underwear from last night." He muttered softly, keeping his voice low to make sure his ''bodyguards'' won''t be able to hear him, even though they were at a distance from the but with their hearing abilities, he couldn''t trust them.


    "Adam!" Stella whisper yelled at him. Her face was turning red at the mere mention of last night. She could still hear her own moans while he was humping her, going deeper with each thrust and ramming his rod against her pleasure spot.


    Looking at her faint blush, Adam gave her a roguish smile. "Don''t tell me you are thinking about last night." He spoke before pressing a kiss against her milky smooth neck.


    "Damn! These foundation things are way too good." He exclaimed in annoyance when he looked at the junction of her neck and shoulder. A bright red hickey was supposed to be there, a reminder of their last night''s exertion, but instead his eyes landed on the smooth even tone skin. He pressed another kiss on her neck, right over the site of hickey.


    "Adam." Stella admonished him. They were at the airport, and the waiting area was filled with his bodyguards.


    Not all of them were supposed to go with him. Most of them were supposed to be looking after her security and would leave with her. Though she hadn''t agreed with him, but who would listen to her anyways. She was thankful for having at least one familiar face among the army of ten people, which was none other than Edward. Since he has driven her a couple of times around, so she could tolerate his presence.


    "I am going to miss you." Adam couldn''t help but say it again. Stella had lost count of how many times he had repeated the same line since morning.


    She wanted to say it back to him, but she held herself back. She knew that her words held the power of changing his mind, and she wouldn''t like to be a hindrance in his work.


    "Why are you sounding like that you are going away for long? It''s just a couple of days. Moreover, it''s not even that far." Stella added while patting his head like a child.


    The exchange between the two wasn''t any less than a shock for the people in the same room. Even though their faces were blank, behind their black shades, they had their eyes popping out of their sockets, well except for Edward for he was used to the couple getting all lovey dovey.


    "Boss?" The leader of the team who was supposed to go with Adam, interrupted the couple, earning a glare from Adam.


    The man still gathered the remaining amount of courage he has left in his body and cleared his throat. "It''s time to leave, the jet is ready for take off."


    "You guys should go first and settle in. I will join you in a minute or two." Adam spoke up in his firm voice without letting go of Stella. He was still hugging her from behind.


    As if understanding the underlying meaning of his words, the man nodded his head and left the waiting room, taking his team members with him.


    "Stella?" Adam called her name, his voice filled with tenderness which was another blow to the remaining bodyguards.


    She turned around and hugged him tightly, not letting him see her teary eyed face, but she forgot one thing. Just like how she could read him like an open book, he could do the same to her.


    He smiled as he rubbed her back, trying to calm her nerves down.


    "Are you forgetting all those things that you have been saying to me since last night?" He chuckled, hugging her close.


    "You should probably leave now." She mumbled into his chest.


    "Okay, okay. But promise me that you will take care of yourself." He asked her again. A faint smile appeared on her lips as she nodded her head slightly before letting go of him.


    Adam leaned his head down and placed a lingering kiss on her forehead. "I gotta go now." He murmured against her forehead before kissing her one more time.


    Stella was gazing at hai departing figure when he turned around and almost ran back to her. She looked at him in confusion, but her confusion didn''t last for much longer as he crashed his lips down on hers.


    He finally parted with her, allowing her to breathe after kissing her senselessly.


    He pressed his forehead against hers. "I forgot this." He muttered in between his breaths, causing Stella to smile wider. Looking at that smile, he finally heaved a sigh of relief before walking away from her.


    Stella stayed there even after he had left and continued to watch the jet through the glass wall. She didn''t move from her place until the jet had taken off, disappearing into the distance.


    "Looks like you are stuck with me." She turned around and spoke to Edward, who only shook his head as he pitied himself.


    "Unlucky me." He commented, making her smile.


    "Then what are you waiting for Mr. Unlucky? Drive me back home." She gave him a questioning look.


    A few minutes later, a bulletproof black Maybach left the airport followed by three black Mercedes.


    ----------


    Stella was sitting on the king sized bed all alone, munching on some pizza. She had asked Edward to make a pit stop at a pizza place on their way back home.


    Dressed in baggy gray sweater and some shorts, she was waiting patiently for the call of a certain someone. Hee phone was placed before her, her eyes fixated on the black screen, waiting for it to light up. She looked at the time again to make sure she wasn''t way too eager for his call or it was him who being late. His jet would have landed half an hour ago and he still hadn''t called her yet.


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 Chapter 197 - I Will Keep The Call Connected

    Dressed in baggy gray sweater and some shorts, she was waiting patiently for the call of a certain someone. Her phone was placed before her, her eyes fixated on the black screen, waiting for it to light up. She looked at the time again to make sure she wasn''t way too eager for his call or it was him who being late. His jet would have landed half an hour ago and he still hadn''t called her yet.


    She was still having that weird feeling nagging her heart when she saw the jet taking off the runway. She continued to munch on her pizza slice her with her eyes set on the black screen of her phone.


    She could feel her eyes getting heavier with each passing second as the lack of sleep took its toll on her body. She tried to stifle a yawn which was threatening to escape her swollen lips, but failed at doing so. Her eyelids dropped down on their body as her body couldn''t take it anymore.


    A ringing sound made its way into her ears, waking her up from her deep slumber. She found herself curled up in a ball in the center of the king sized bed, a woolen comforter was covering her bare legs. Her eyes trailed towards the tray of food having what was left of her pizza.  ''Looks like I feel asleep while eating.'' She thought to herself.


    The phone continued to ring, reminding her of the call that she was so badly waiting for. "Adam." She muttered under her breath as she sat up straight with a jerk and crawled towards her phone on her knees and hands.


    Looking at the lightened up screen, she smiled as her eyes landed on the letters appearing on her phone''s blinking screen. ''Hubby??''


    Picking up the call she smiled and spoke into the phone''s speaker. "What took you so long?" She questioned him right away, not bothering with the greetings.


    "I am sorry for worrying you. We had some problems while checking out our luggage. You know that they don''t usually allow guns, so I had to make some calls. It took longer than I expected." He apologized to her immediately for worrying her.


    "Is everything sorted out?" Stella asked him, her voice turning soft as she furrowed her brows.


    "Yeah! Are you doubting your husband''s ability?" Even though she couldn''t see his face, she could tell that he must be having a smirk embracing his thin lips while saying that.


    She chuckled lightly into the speaker. "Never." She muttered a single word as she laid down on the satin sheets, burying her face in his pillow.


    "Are your legs properly covered?" His question made its way into her ear. Knowing her, she was most probably wearing a woolen shirt but with a pair of shorts even in this cold weather.


    Stella shifted her gaze towards the hand knitted, woolen comforter which was barely covering her toned yet dainty legs. She fixed it, making sure that her legs were properly covered by it. "Yeah, I have one of those fancy comforters you bought for me draped over my legs."


    "You just fixed it." She could imagine him shaking as head in helplessness as he uttered those words.


    Adam had brought a couple of hand knitted woolen comforters for her a few days back as the weather was turning cold. He had an idea about how careless she was about herself. Stella called them fancy because not only they would cost a normal person a huge fortune, but they were as light as a thin paper. She had wore dresses heavier than that.


    "You are some hundred kilometers away from me, but you still know what I was doing." She narrowed her eyes.


    "Aren''t I a good boyfriend?" He boasted himself to which Stella agreed right away, giving his ego another boast. "Yes, yes. You are."


    "Are you still at the airport?" She questioned him out of nowhere as her eyes landed on the analog wall clock. Looking at the time, she realized that his plane must have landed an hour ago.


    "Well, right now I am on my way to the hotel." He replied to her.


    "Oh!" Came her short reply.


    "You should go back to sleep now." Adam added when he heard a yawn coming from the other end of his phone.


    "No, I am fine." Stella refused to listen to him.


    "Stella, do as I say." Adam frowned at her reply before trying to coax her. "What about this? I will keep the call connected, and you can sleep." He tried to make a deal with her, and knowing his little elf, she would easily agree to this.


    Stella pondered over it for a minute before giving into his demands. "Alright."


    "Now put the phone down next to you, but at some distance." He instructed her and could hear her shuffle slightly to put it down.


    Turning on the loudspeaker of her phone, She replied to him. "It''s done."


    "Now close your eyes, and sleep." Adam softened his voice further. He heard a soft hum in response before the other side went completely went quite.


    He put down his phone inside his pocket after putting the call on mute, he didn''t want the voices from his side to disturb her sleep.


    "Can you drive a bit faster?" He asked the driver as he gazed out of the tinted windows of the car, lost in his own world. ''Stay safe my baby girl.'' He thought to himself as her smiling face popped up in his mind. He had a hunch that his stay here would end up being extended. He was hoping for himself to be wrong this time.


    ----------


    Walking out of the bathroom after taking a shower, he changed into some fresh clothes. He was still drying his hair using a small towel when he heard some shuffling coming from his phone which was resting on the bedside table. He walked up to it, taking long strides and picked it up.


    "Adam?" A faint voice made its way through his phone''s speaker, immediately bringing a smile on his face. He unmuted the call and hummed in response.


    "You are still there?" She questioned him, but came out more like a statement


    "Of course, I am. Didn''t I say I will keep the call connected?" He could imagine a smile blooming over her small face after hearing his reply. The mere thought of it, made his smile wider.


    "What are you doing?" Her voice brought him back to the present.


    "Just took a bath and ordered some food for myself. What are you going to have for food?" He replied and questioned her at the same time.


    "I just buzzed Uncle Rob, let''s see what he will bring over for me." Stella replied to him. "Hey, hey. I have an idea." Her excited voice came through his phone.


    "What?" He asked her skeptically. After what happened last night, he was beginning to be afraid of her ideas.


    "Turn on your camera, we can FaceTime each other while having our lunch." She suggested to which he agreed right away. "Alright."


    He had a single thought running in his mind when he heard her suggestion. ''What could go wrong in facetiming while having their food? Right?''


    *********


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 Chapter 198 - Lunch

    He had a single thought running in his mind when he heard her suggestion. ''What could go wrong in facetiming while having their food? Right?''


    A little while later when the two of them finally had their lunch served before them, they finally turned on their front cameras, holding their phones at a distance so that they could see each other properly.


    "Damn!"


    "Damn!"


    The two of them uttered at the same time as they eyed each other.


    Adam wasn''t wearing a shirt and she could see small droplets of water glittering on his bare torso under the pale lighting of his hotel room. Little did she know that he had taken off his shirt before face timing her, just to tease her.


    On the other hand, in her gazed state Stella forget to realize that the sweater was actually Adam''s and was too baggy for her small figure. The round neckline of the sweater had somehow slipped from her right shoulder, most probably when she was jumping on the king sized bed in excitement, exposing her milky white skin for him to enjoy.


    "You aren''t wearing a bra." Adam narrowed his eyes at her, more specifically, her exposed shoulder.


    Stella, who still busy enjoying the eye feast who was her boyfriend, just shrugged in response before actually replying to him. "I was just in the room. I didn''t go out, nobody came in. Well, except for the maid who came in a while ago with my lunch."


    Adam just hummed in response as he made his way to the dining table which was in the living room of his suite.


    He put his phone down on the table, leaning it against a sauce bottle so that it could stay up as he enjoyed his lunch with his little elf.


    He heard some shuffling sound coming from the other side. He saw the video shaking up a bit as the phone showed him his room. "What are you doing?" He couldn''t help but inquire when he didn''t see his woman for more than a minute.


    He was about to question her again but stopped when he saw the video stabilizing a bit, showing him the face of his beloved girlfriend again.


    "I was looking for this." Her sweet voice came through as she showed him a broad perfume bottle. She put it on the side of the folding wooden table which had her lunch and supported her phone against it.


    "Tadaaa!" She exclaimed in joy while splayin her hands in the air like a magician who has successfully pulled off a magic trick when she was successful in making the phone stand and stay like that.


    Adam let out a throaty laughter at her antics. ''She is so, so cute. And she is mine.'' He thought to himself as he looked at her smiling face.


    "Let''s eat before our food gets cold." Stella ordered him when she didn''t see him moving.


    "Yes, Ma''am." There was no way he could argue with her or not listen to her.


    --------


    "Why are you still up?" Adam questioned her as he looked at the time.


    It was already past midnight and the two love birds had spent their entire day doing their own chores but keeping the video call going on. They would either place the phone somewhere close to them when the other person was busy. Their phones were continuously being charged as well at the same time as none of them wanted the call to end.


    Adam had gone to attend some of the policemen which had come over to share with him some of the evidence they had so far collected. Although, it wasn''t allowed normally, but for Adam they decided to make an exception, more like he forced them to do so. He had left his phone back in the bedroom as it wouldn''t have done him or his team any good. He remembered ordering her strictly that she must be enjoying her deep slumber before he gets done with his work.


    But listening to him easily, how could she do that?


    "I couldn''t sleep." She replied as she tried to stifle a yawn but failed miserably.


    "Yeah, yeah. I could clearly see that." He shook his head sideways. ''What would I do with her?''


    "Stella? I won''t be going anywhere. I am just a call away. You know that, right?" He tried to coax her. He wondered how did the tables turn around so quickly. He was the one being reluctant to leave. He was the one acting like a kid at the airport. She was the one bucking him up all that time, acting like the mature one between the two. Adam could only shook his head looking at the spoiled kid pouting in his phone''s screen. But who else was to be blamed for this if not him.


    "But¡­." Stella tried to reason with him but was interrupted right away.


    "No buts." Adam refused to listen to her. There was only one thing in which he couldn''t compromise on, her health.


    "Okay." Stella agreed to him pursing her lips again in a pout. She knew it was useless to argue with him any further.


    "I see you have already changed into your nightwear." He exclaimed as his eyes drifted to the black t-shirt she was wearing.


    "I changed when you are busy with your work." She answered him while yawning, she didn''t bother to suppress it any longer.


    "I am going to go and change. And when I come back, I want you to be fast asleep by then." He firmly added, getting a nod from her in response.


    He placed the phone down on the bed and left to change. When he came back, he saw her fast asleep, just like he had asked her. As she had placed the phone in such an angle that he could see her face clearly when he returns, supporting it with a pillow. A smile graced his face as he placed a kiss on his phone''s screen.


    "Good night, my love." He wished his sleeping beauty before drifting off to his own dream land.


    *********


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 Chapter 199 - The Meeting Room

    The golden rays of sunlight filtered through the thin fabric of the curtains which were covering the glass panels of the wide windows, filling up the lightless room, brightening it up. A low groan could be heard along with shuffling sound of the bed sheets.


    Stretching his arms in the air, Adam woke up as his eyes could no longer stay shut under the assault of the bright sunlight. As he sat up straight, his eyes fell on his phone which was still connected to the charger. On the lit up screen of his phone, he could see the silhouette of his woman, still lost in her dream world. His eyes shifted to the analog wall clock of his room to check the time. It was a little over 9 a.m. in the morning.


    ''Good.'' He thought to himself. She definitely needed this rest. He was used to working with a little bit of sleep, but he knew that she wasn''t. Picking up the phone from the bed, he kissed the screen softly. "Good morning, my sweetheart." He murmured softly as he gazed at her sleeping figure.


    With a heavy heart, he finally ended the video call. He needed to go to their company''s branch here in the city and also visit the project site. He knew that he needed to start from there if he actually wanted to find Parker, his VP. He left his bed as soon as the realization of being on a tight schedule dawned on him, but he didn''t forget to leave a loving text for his beloved.


    ---------


    "Good morning." He replied to the greetings of his staff with a blank face. This was the first time that he had visited this branch. Usually it was Parker''s responsibility to look after the branch''s operations.


    "Good morning, Boss. It''s an honor to finally have you here." The head manager of the branch greeted him as Adam and his team entered in the meeting room. "If you could have informed me about coming here, I would have properly welcomed you." He added politely, bowing his head slightly in respect.


    "I could care less about that. And as far as my visiting is concerned, I wouldn''t have to bother myself if it wasn''t for you people''s incompetence." Adam glared at him, boring holes into his bowed head.


    "I-I¡­ We are sorry, Sir." The head manager could only apologize. He tried his best to locate Mr. Parker, after all he was the Vice President of the company, but didn''t have any luck in it. The entire branch was cooperating with the police, providing them with whatever information they needed. And that''s the most they could for now.


    "It''s better that you get yourself familiar with my team as soon as possible. They will be taking over the investigation from here." Adam added as he sat down on the head chair of the big rectangular table.


    "Sure, Sir." The man replied politely to him. After everyone had taken their seats, he quietly exited the meeting room, just like Adam had instructed him to do so.


    After the head manager had exited the room, Adam turned his attention towards his team. Each and every member of his team was a skilled assassin, dangerous enough with his stealth abilities and fighting techniques, at the same time, mastering their own speciality.


    Adam had carefully chosen them himself, making sure that their skills were suitable for this mission as his trip wasn''t as simple as he had made it sound while explaining to Stella. He was feeling bad about lying to her, but knowing her personality, she would have followed him if she knew how dangerous this was.


    How could it be simple? Someone had actually kidnapped a man who was under him in broad daylight. The other party isn''t as simple as the police were making it sound like. Not everyone can dare to put a hand on his people, especially after he had taken over the underworld.


    He pressed a button which was situated on the underside of the table. It was no ordinary button, not only pressing it makes the room completely inaccessible, but makes it soundproof as well, turning off all the CCTVs within the room. And only Adam could use it as the button had a built-in sensor within it and scans the finger which pressed it.


    "This room will be your base starting from today." He began to address his team. "I will appoint each of you to a single task. It''s your duty to make sure that you don''t miss a single detail regarding it. You guys will brief me about the progress you have made at the end of the day. And no matter what happens, you won''t contact anyone back at the base for the time being we are here."


    They nodded their heads as they listened to his orders.


    "You! Make sure that my phone cannot be traced, specially the incoming calls." He pointed out a man who was sitting at the far corner of the table and slid his phone to him.


    The man caught the phone and nodded his head in understanding as he connected it to his laptop. His fingers began to move over the keys swiftly. The lean looking man, was not as simple as he looked. He was not only a skilled fighter, excelling in the arts of Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai, he was an exceptional computer programmer who could easily hack into a country''s defense system and leave without leaving any footprints which can in any way be tracked back to him or the place he used to do it.


    As Adam continued to brief the remaining members of his team, the lean man continued to work on his laptop, paying attention to whatever Adam was saying at the same time. He was halfway done with making his phone secure, when it''s screen lit up. His eyes shifted to the phone''s screen for the briefest second before going back to his laptop''s screen. He was thinking about telling Adam after he was done with debriefing as he hated being interrupted, but shoved down the thought of doing so when his mind registered the identity of the caller again.


    "Boss?" He gathered his courage and interrupted him. And just like he had predicted, Adam glared at him.


    "Don''t you know that I hate being interrupted?" He questioned him.


    "Umm.. It''s¡­ actually¡­.. you have a call." The man mustered up the courage to talk. "It''s your¡­. ''Wifey''." He added the last part as he pushed up his square shaped spectacles up on his nose.


    "Oh!" The change in Adam''s voice was way too obvious to ignore.


    He got up from his seat and walked around the table, taking long strides. He was about to reach for his phone when the man stopped him again.


    "You can''t disconnect the phone from the laptop." He added without looking in his direction. "I only am halfway through it and if you disconnect it now, your phone will crash."


    "Okay." Adam added to him and motioned his team to stay quiet. Picking up the call, he leaned against the table before putting the phone to his ear.


    "Why are you up so early? I thought you would be sleeping in since it''s your off today." The tenderness in his voice shocked those trained assailants to their core. They were busy with their own missions and were not present at the base when Stella had visited the last time. Even though they had witnessed a little more of their lovey dovey at the airport, they were still not used to it.


    "I am at the branch, sweetheart. I will visit the site later on." They heard their Big Boss speak again.


    ----------


    Stella had woken up only to find that the call was no longer connected. She was a bit sad as she couldn''t see his handsome face after getting up like always. But a small smile embraced her lips as soon as she saw the message he had left her.


    ''I have to go and take care of some things. Now be a good girl and don''t be sad anymore for not being able to see this handsome hunk in your bed. Go take a shower, get dressed into some warm clothes (no shorts) and have your breakfast. Give me a call when you are done.


    And i repeat, no shorts.


    xoxo.''


    She let out a hearty laugh when she read the last two lines again before buying herself with things she was asked, more like ordered, to do.


    After getting done with her breakfast she had given him a call right away.


    ----------


    "Oh! No, no. You aren''t disturbing me at all." Adam replied to her when apologised to him for troubling him.


    *********


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 Chapter 200 - The Logical Explanation

    "Oh! No, no. You aren''t disturbing me at all." Adam replied to her when apologised to him for troubling him.


    A couple of eyes shifted to him when his words made into their ears and their brand registered his sentence. The same thought was echoing in their minds but no one could gather the courage to voice it out. ''Yeah, yeah! You aren''t disturbing him at all Ma''am, or us for the record.''


    As if sending their piercing gaze on him, Adam passed them a look, quietly hinting them to get on with the work assigned to them and stop dilly-dallying. Understanding his unsaid words, they shifted their eyes away from him, busying themselves in their own work.


    "I am listening, sweetheart. You carry on." He replied to her when she questioned him for being so quiet.


    "I am not doing much right now. We were just having a small meeting." He added.


    "Small meeting? Tell them to the people who are stuck with you inside that room for another hour or so." He heard her reply which was followed by a series of laughter. If he was the one holding a meeting, there was no way it could end up being small. She sure knew him well.


    "Alright, alright. I will go back and entertain them, my lady. You take care of yourself." Adam chuckled lightly, blowing another jab at his team. "I love you too." He added the latter part with a bright smile resting on his face, not forgetting to blow a kiss into the phone''s speaker, taking them by surprise again.


    He put his phone back on the table after disconnecting the call. His eyes met with a couple of shocked ones, causing him to frown his brows in confusion.


    "What are you guys staring at? Is there something interesting written on my face?" He threw a deathly glare towards them, causing them to flinch. They shook their heads in no, earning another glare from him. "Then may I know why are you guys sitting back so relaxed? Who will do the work that I assigned to you people?"


    Under his threatening glare, they shifted their attention back to their own assigned jobs. It wasn''t their fault that were a bit distracted by that dog food. They were thanking the heavens above that it was just a phone call and their lady boss wasn''t actually here with them. Faint shivers ran down their spines by the mere thought of being exposed to some real dog food.


    ---------


    After working straight for five hours or so, everyone was tired including Adam himself. They had been looking into the past records of such incidents and the only similarity they could find between Parker''s kidnapping and those previous ones, was the type of car they used to pick up their victim in.


    "You guys can take a break for now and eat something. Then we can get into these reports in greater detail." Adam spoke up, placing down a bunch of papers on the table before him. "I want to know when and exactly how these people were kidnapped and about their recovery as well."


    "Yes, Boss." The members of his team replied at the same time before leaving their seats and going out of the room, leaving Adam on his own.


    Heaving out a tired sigh, Adam leaned his face in between his palms as both of his elbows rested on the edge of the table. He rubbed the side of his head slowly, trying to ease the headache which was building up with each passing minute.


    He was frustrated with his own self for not being able to protect his own man. Moreover, even after spending around five hours on the case, they weren''t a single step closer to finding him.


    A sudden ping from his phone brought him out of his stupor, shifting his attention to his phone which was resting securely in his coat''s pocket. Taking it out, he placed his thumb on the home button to unlock it. A single notification was waiting for his attention which was about a text he had received. Just looking at the sender''s name, a smile bloomed on his impassive face.


    Clicking on the notification, he opened it.


    ''Take it easy. Don''t work yourself out, you need a break too.


    And I love you ??.''


    "This girl makes me fall in love with her all over again every day." He chuckled to himself, his worries long forgotten, probably got thrown out of some window.


    He replied her back with an ''I love you too ??'' text and headed out of the room, not forgetting to lock it so that no one else could access it. He needed to get some food inside his body to make his mind work as well.


    ---------


    "Get back to work guys." He ordered his team as they entered the meeting room, or their mini base, one by one.


    He busied himself as well at the same time. There was no way that he would sit back when his team was working their asses off to come up with a logical explanation of what had actually conspired or some more clues.


    Three more hours later, his team was finally able to come up with some logical explanation regarding the kidnapping incident. Though their search for more clues ended up in nothing, but something was better than nothing. There was a high chance that they might end up with some clues if they were able to think like the kidnappers themselves.


    "What are your conclusions so far? Anyone?" Adam asked his team.


    "Umm.. Boss?" One of the members decided to go first. "I was going through all the kidnapping cases which had occurred in the last ten years in the city. I focused on those cases specifically which involved people going missing as soon as they walk out of the airport." He continued. "All of them had one thing similar, they way those kidnappers carried it out. They targeted those people who were usually sent by some company or corporation and were not familiar with the city themselves. And they themselves acted as the representatives of that particular company or corporation who had come to receive the guest."


    After he had completely told his analysis, the computer genius spoke up. "I hacked into the CCTV cameras of the city and ran a program which was able to detect the car they used. Just like the Police department, the trail ended at that abandoned warehouse." He pressed a key and an old, almost run down building appeared on the white curtain like screen.


    "But since I had a lot of free time I decided to expand the program so that it can analyze the footages of all those kidnappings he just mentioned. And one more thing came out to be similar between those kidnappings, the car. In each of those kidnappings, it was exactly the same model from the same brand and the same shade of black." He pressed some keys and a bunch of pictures of the same car were projected on the screen, a 2010 black Camaro.


    Adam raised his index finger in the air, asking the man to stop. He furrowed his eyebrows as he processed the information. After a minute, he finally spoke up. "So, the kidnappers aren''t as simple as we thought. If they could get their hands on the same type of car each time, they must have a strong backing to have their hands on suck resources."


    "Boss?" Another man spoke up, as he looked at him with some complicated expressions, asking for his permission to speak. He started to speak up when Adam gave him the permission to do so. "The company''s higher up received a call from the kidnappers, asking for a big amount of money as ransom."


    "So you mean, we will receive a call anytime soon as well?" Adam questioned him to which he shook his head.


    "They received a call within 24 hours after the kidnapping took place. But in our case, it''s been more than 48 hours. I''m afraid that we may never get a call." The man answered him.


    The room went quiet after listening to him. Everyone was lost in their own thoughts when they heard Adam speak up again.


    "In the previous kidnappings, was the car abandoned as well at some remote, secluded place where there are no CCTVs." He questioned his team.


    "I think so." A man spoke up as he flipped some pages which were thrown before her on the table in a haphazard manner. These pages were actually printed out police reports about all the previous kidnappings. It wasn''t easy for him to get them out as they were some just paperwork. He had to contact a man who owed him a huge favor so that he could get their hands on them.


    *********


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 Chapter 201 - The Search For More Clues

    "I think so." A man spoke up as he flipped some pages which were thrown before her on the table in a haphazard manner. These pages were actually printed out police reports about all the previous kidnappings. It wasn''t easy for him to get them out as they were some just paperwork. He had to contact a man who owed him a huge favor so that he could get their hands on them.


    "Yes." He replied as he pulled out a few papers from the huge pile of papers placed before him. "The black Camaro was found abandoned at some remote, secluded place. The police did check those places, but found nothing."


    "And did the police check out those old warehouses?" Adam questioned him.


    He picked up another bunch of paper and passed it to Adam. "Not all of them." He began to speak when Adam had the papers in his hands. "They checked out the warehouse before which they found the car and three other warehouses which were surrounding it."


    Adam looked through the papers, processing the information in his mind. "Whoever is behind this kidnapping, they tried to make it look like the previous ones. The police fell for it and instead of investigating it properly, they are just waiting for the kidnappers to call and ask for ransom."


    He frowned as he placed the papers back on the table. "But they are never going to get the call." He continued.


    "Pull out a map of the area where they dumped the car." He ordered the lean man again. The tapping sound of keys was heard and the screen went black before lightening up again. A map of the area was projected on the white screen.


    "Let me try something." The lean man spoke up, pushing his glasses up on his nose. His fingers flew over the keys of his laptop. His tapping resulted in one red and three green blipping dots appeared on the map. "The red dot shows the warehouse where they found the car and those three green dots are the other warehouses they searched." He added, pointing his chin towards the screen.


    "Zoom in at the red dot." Adam asked him to which he complied. Looking at the abandoned building which was almost in a run down condition, he questioned him again. "What''s that light blue line behind it? Is it some sort of stream?"


    "Yeah." He answered him as he zoomed in further.


    "Form five teams of two and search all of those warehouses, even the ones that the police have already searched. I don''t want a single stone unturned. For all we know, there are high chances that he is being kept in one of those warehouses. But don''t do it today, do it tomorrow." He ordered them.


    "Yes, Boss." All of them replied to him at once.


    "And you." He pointed towards the lean man. "I want you to track that stream, look for potential sites where they can get off if there is a chance that they used the stream to transport him." He asked him as he was the eleventh member of his team who had joined him directly in the city as he was sent off for a mission in a nearby country.


    "Sure, Boss." He nodded his head.


    "I will visit the project site tomorrow, so don''t call and bother me if you run into something. We will gather here tomorrow night again to discuss further. All of you can leave now." Adam added as he dismissed his team.


    ---------


    "Did you miss me?" He questioned her as he looked at the screen of his phone.


    The duo were having their dinner while video chatting with each other. Though it was just the end of day two, the two love birds were missing each other crazily. They had gotten so used to each other''s presence that with the distance, their lives felt incomplete, as if it was missing an important component.


    "Nah! Why would I miss you?" Stella rolled her eyes and answered him, her voice laced with sarcasm. She sliced through her steak and decided to turn a blind eye to the man on the other end, who was smiling at her. ''How could he even ask me such a question?'' She lamented to herself.


    "I can''t say about you, but I surely missed my little elf." She heard his voice coming from the phone.


    She clenched her jaw as she tried to fight the anger building within her. She hated it whenever he called her with that title. ''What little elf? I am not even that small.''


    "Little elf?" He called her again, his smile becoming wider with each passing second.  As he realized that she wouldn''t back out from ignoring him easily, he decided to push his luck harder.  "I won''t touch my food any further if you continue to ignore me." He put down his knife and fork on the ceramic plate forcefully, producing a clank sound.


    Stella shut her eyes tightly, trying to keep herself sane. He knew that her only weakness was he, himself and surely how to use the fact for his own advantage.


    "Adam! Eat it." She gritted her teeth, still not bothering to look up from her plate.


    "Not unless you look at me." He added in a pitiful voice and even pushed his lower lip out, curling it.


    Rolling her eyes again, she finally looked at him and couldn''t help but chuckle as soon as her eyes landed on his ''pitiful'' face. "Stop it. You don''t look good."


    "And you should stop rolling your eyes. It won''t be a wonder if they get stuck in the same position." He did listen to her but didn''t forget to pass her a teasing remark.


    "Who cares if they do get stuck? You are the one who''s stuck with me for life." She cheekily added as the two of them continued to eat their dinner.


    Adam didn''t bother replying to her remark. His silence was enough for her to know that she was right.


    ----------


    "You know what you have to do, right?" A man spoke spoke into his phone as he sipped on his whiskey. He was sitting on the edge of the bed, only wearing a night robe which covered his naked self. His eyes were set on the burning wood chunks in the fireplace, how they burned away, turning themselves into ashes just so they could provide some warmth to others.


    "Good! Keep me updated on how the plan progresses." He spoke to his lackey again before disconnecting the call. Picking up the crystal glass which was half filled with whiskey, he brought it to his lips before chugging down it''s content. A devilish smirk hugged his lips as he continued to gaze at the blazing flames.


    "Just one more day and everything that I have desired so far, will be mine. Just one more day and you will be out of my way Adam Levinson." He let out a sinister laugh.


    He heard the covers of the bed shuffle as two fair, slender arms wrapped around him. Two bouncy yet firm mounds of flesh were pressed against his back as a sweet, tender voice made its way into his ears.


    "Who are you talking to at this hour?"


    "Why are you up so early? Looks like you aren''t that tired. Should make you?" He smirked at her.


    *********


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 Chapter 202 - Project Site

    The next day,


    Adam woke up bright and early. Just like the previous day, the first thing he noticed was the face of his beloved girlfriend which was not only brightening up his phone''s screen, but his day as well.


    He smiled like a lovesick fool that he always was around her, keeping his eyes set on the 6.5 inches long screen of his limited edition phone. Placing a kiss on it, he ended the call with a heavy heart. He got out of the covers, but not before sending her a loving text.


    ---------


    "Good morning, Boss." His team entered the meeting room, one by one and greeted him. They were a bit confused when each of them received a text from him. They couldn''t understand as to why would he call them so suddenly when he himself had ordered them to go and search the warehouses to look for clues.


    "You guys must be wondering why I called you here?" He began to speak when everyone had settled down. "You guys can go back to the assigned task but I need two of you to look over something." He added as he passed them a bunch of papers which were stapled together.


    "I decided to come here before heading to the project site. While talking to the head manager, I realized something. His secretary, she is new at the job. His former secretary was a man who was working by his side since we established this branch. I have even met him a few times in person when the construction work wasn''t complete. It''s really out of his character to resign from the job. I feel like there''s something fishy at the back end." He continued.


    "Why don''t try calling him, Boss?" One of his men suggested to which Adam just shook his head.


    "I already tried that, but his phone number doesn''t even exist." He pursed his thin lips. "I want two of you to look into this matter and track him down. I want him present before my eyes by the end of the day. You can coordinate with number ''Eleven'' on this one." He added as he pointed towards the lean man.


    He got up from his seat and began to head out of the room. "You guys can go and work on your assigned tasks." He uttered slowly yet firmly without turning his attention towards them.


    --------


    "This section is basically for the machines. They scan each and every part using a laser system to make sure that they aren''t defaulted by any means. Each machine is set to analyse a single part. The ones which are okay, are passed to the assembly lines where the parts are put together." The head manager explained to Adam as he gave him an overview of the production unit which was one of the four main buildings.


    They were currently standing behind a thick transparent glass wall. The room was in such a position that it looked over the entire area, allowing the person standing behind the glass wall to easily visualize the entire production process.


    Adam just hummed in response. At that particular moment, he couldn''t care less about the process of how their cellphones are made. It was the first time that the Levinson''s Corp. was going to launch their own cell phones under the brand name of ''Touch''. The marketing team decide on such a name because they will only produce high end smartphones for the upper class people.


    He eyed the people who were present with him inside the room. All of them held an important post and were the higher ups assigned to look over the project.


    "What''s next?" He questioned the head manager who was sweating buckets under his scrutinizing gaze. Before the poor man could answer him, his phone began to vibrate inside his pocket. He could tell without even looking at the screen of who might be the caller. He asked everyone to leave the room to which they complied right away.


    He locked the room from the inside and finally took out his phone which was still vibrating.


    "I am so sorry. I know you must be busy right now and I promised myself that I won''t call you until you are back to your hotel room. But I was just having this weird feeling that something bad might have happened to you so I decided to check on you myself." Stella''s voice came through the phone''s speaker immediately after he had connected the call. He heard her apologizing and explaining herself, all in one breath. He couldn''t help but chuckle as he asked her to stop her ranting.


    "Hey, hey, hey! Easy girl. Take a deep breath." He asked her to which she complied. He heard her exhaling out a long breath. Even from her tone, he could tell how much she was worried about him.


    "I am so sorry." She apologized to him again for disturbing him at this hour, knowing fully well that he must be busy.


    Adam shook his head sideways, even though he knew that she couldn''t see him on a voice call. "There''s no need for you to apologise to me, sweetheart."


    "But.. I-I¡­" She tried to explain herself, but was stopped by him right away.


    "Didn''t you hear me?" He rolled his eyes back before frowning. ''Damn! When did I started doing this?'' He couldn''t help but think to himself. Unknowingly, he had started to act like her when it came to certain things.


    "I just needed to hear your voice to make sure that you are alright. I have been having this weird feeling since yesterday. And I woke up all startled up this morning." She exhaled out another sigh in relief that he was completely fine.


    "Don''t worry about me, love. I am completely fine. Did you have your breakfast?" He replied to her, questioning her at the same time.


    Before he could hear her reply, a loud bang made its way into his ears, making him frown. He walked close to the glass wall which looked over the machinery, thinking that it was one of the machines malfunctioning.


    But before he could register what was going on another loud bang was heard. This time it was way more closer than the previous one. He saw the entire production line blew up before his eyes as scraps of metal flew in every direction. The only thing which acted as his protective barrier was the thick glass wall which now had cracks running across its width.


    He knew it won''t protect him for much longer. He made its way towards the door as he spoke into the phone''s speaker. "Stella, go and have some breakfast. I will talk to you once I get back to the hotel."


    "W-what was th-at s-sound?" Her stuttering voice entered his ears. He knew that she must have heard the sounds clearly based on how loud they were.


    "Listen to me!" He raised his voice a bit as he made his way out of the room, only to find that the entire army of his subordinates had already left. "No matter what happens, I will always find my way back to you. You just look after yourself for me and promise me that you won''t give up on us." He asked her as he tried to find his way through the bursting flames which were engulfing everything. With each passing second, the number of bangs were increasing.


    ----------


    "I-I-I¡­ promise." She managed to speak in her dazed state. Her eyes had already started to tear up.


    "I love you so, so much, my little elf." She heard his voice before another loud, deafening bang entered her ears before the other line went quiet.


    *********


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 Chapter 203 - Panic Attack

    "I-I-I¡­ promise." She managed to speak in her dazed state. Her eyes had already started to tear up.


    "I love you so, so much, my little elf." She heard his voice before another loud, deafening bang entered her ears before the other line went quiet.


    Stella stared at the blank screen of her phone as she held it in between her trembling palms. A tear rolled down her cheeks, followed by another. She refused to believe what she had just heard. With trembling fingers she redialed his number only for the pre-recorded message to torment her ears. She tried to call him again and again, but everytime it ended with the same results.


    ''The number you are trying to call is currently unreachable.''


    She stared at the blank screen of her phone again which was now wet from her tears. The same words of the pre-recorded message replayed in her mind again and again, causing an immense amount of pain in the center of her chest. Holding onto the site where the pain was radiating from, she felt her breath becoming short as if the insides of her airways were constricting with each passing second.


    Her unfocused eyes shifted from the phone as looked around herself, trying to process everything which had conspired in the last ten minutes. With her shuddering lips, she muttered to herself. "I-I-I l-lo-ve you t-too." She collapsed on the ground as darkness shrouded her vision.


    ---------


    "Can one of you go upstairs and check on Young Miss?" The old butler asked the maids who were busy preparing fresh vegetables for the day''s lunch. One of the maids volunteered to do so and left the kitchen.


    He was a bit worried about her as he looked at the time. It was way past her usual time and she hadn''t buzzed him yet for her breakfast. He could''ve gone himself to check on her but it was better to send a maid.


    He was lost in his own thoughts when he heard a shriek. Based on the voice, it must be the maid who had gone up. He walked hastily out of the kitchen followed by the other maids and servants. He was at the base of the staircase when he saw the maid frantically running out of the corridor which led to the master bedroom. She came to a halt at the top of the stairs and spoke in between her gasps for air.


    "Young Miss, she¡­ I found her fainted on the floor."


    "You!" He said pointing towards the servant. "Call Young Master Blake and Young Master Wilson." The man disappeared from his sight as soon as his mind registered his words.


    "You three, follow me." He continued as he pointed towards three maids who were standing with a baffled expression.


    They nodded in unison as they began to follow him upstairs. All of them knew that all hell would unleash on them if anything was to happen to their Young Miss. They had witnessed with their own eyes how much their Young Master pampered her. Little did they know that their Young Master was the one who was in some way, responsible for Stella''s condition.


    --------


    Her eyelids fluttered as she tried to shift one her right side, but her body refused to listen to her. She gave up after trying a couple of times. Her body felt so light, yet too heavy at the same time. She felt as if her body was drained of all its energy.


    She tried to pull her heavy eyelids apart, using whatever energy she had left in her body. Her throat was completely dry and she could feel a number of needles piercing her throat because of the dryness. She tried to gulp down her saliva to wet the dry mucosa but failed to do so as her mouth was completely dry as well.


    A faint, meek voice which was no louder than a mere whisper, brought the people who were present in the room out of their thoughts.


    "W-water."


    Wilson who was sitting on a chair placed next to the bed, swiftly moved and picked up the glass resting on the bedside table. He poured some water in it and placed it before her mouth as he supported her head using his free hand.


    "Do you need anything else?" He asked her with concern to which she shook her head.


    Blake, who was sitting on the other end of the room got up and made his way towards the bed, coming to a stop right next to Wilson.


    "Are you feeling okay?" He asked her softly. Based on his current facial expressions instead of his usual playful ones, one could tell how worried he was.


    "Hmm." Stella just hummed in response as Wilson helped her in sitting up. He placed a couple of cushions and pillows behind her back to make her comfortable.


    "Why are you guys here? Is everything fine?" She questioned them in her hazy state.


    The two men stood quietly before her as their eyes trailed towards her left hand. Following their line of sight, her eyes landed on her left where she was an IV line was inserted and a patch of surgical tape was holding it in its place.


    "Oh!" She muttered under her breath before shifting her attention to the two men. "I am so sorry for troubling you guys. Where''s Adam by the way? She apologized to them, questioning them at the same time.


    Blake and Wilson shared a look quietly before passing her an apologetic look. She looked back at them with confusion written on her face. In the quietness that was engulfing the broad and wide master bedroom, the scenes from earlier rushed to her mind, tearing her insides apart.


    Her eyes began to tear up again as her trembling lips managed to call out his name. "A-Adam."


    Blake moved quickly and sat down next to her before engulfing her in a hug, allowing her to use his shoulder to cry on. He could feel his shirt becoming wet with her tears as she continued to sob. He knew that no words could lessen the pain she was feeling at the moment, so he just continued to rub her back quietly as he let her shed her tears.


    "Adam." She muttered against his shoulder again. "He is gonna be alright, right?" She questioned him.


    Heaving out a tired sigh, he nodded his head in a yes as he continued to pat her back. "Of course, he is Adam after all. He will always find his way back to you."


    As his words registered in her mind, she recalled Adam''s words.


    ''Listen to me. No matter what happens, I will always find my way back to you. You just look after yourself for me and promise me that you won''t give up on us.''


    "He will find his way back to me." She muttered to herself in between her sobs.


    Wilson cleared his throat lightly to get their attention. "Don''t mind this silly doctor here. But can you please stop crying Stella, you had a panic attack earlier. I don''t want that to happen again. Moreover, think of Adam, he wouldn''t like to you see like this."


    *********


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 Chapter 204 - Chicken Corn Soup

    Wilson cleared his throat lightly to get their attention. "Don''t mind this silly doctor here. But can you please stop crying Stella, you had a panic attack earlier. I don''t want that to happen again. Moreover, think of Adam, he wouldn''t like to you see like this."


    Stella nodded her head understanding his point. She wiped her tears with the back of her palms as she let go of Blake.


    "Thank you." She showed her gratitude to him before turning her attention to Wilson.


    "What happened to me? And how did you guys get here? All I remember is talking to him on call and then¡­." She trailed off, not wanting to recall the entire scenario.


    As if understanding her pain, the two of them didn''t question her any further.


    "Like I told you earlier, you had a panic attack." Wilson began to answer her question. "Your body couldn''t take the shock and because of hypoglycemia, you fainted. It was a maid who found you in the condition. Uncle Rob has sent her upstairs to check on you as you were taking too long to get up than usual. He is the one who called us." He sat down on the chair as he explained it to her.


    "Where''s Lillian?" Stella questioned Blake as she shifted her attention to him. There were so many things that she wanted to ask him but she lacked the courage to do so at the moment. She didn''t want her heart to go through more pain. Even though she herself knew that it was inevitable, but she wanted to delay it as much as possible.


    "She''s downstairs in the kitchen, most probably yelling at the maids." Blake replied to her with a chuckle as he tried to lighten up the atmosphere.


    "Oh!" She exclaimed before clearing her throat as she gathered up the courage to finally ask him the question she was dreading so much. "D-do you have any news about¡­ him?" Her voice was barely audible when she whispered the last word.


    Heaving out a tired sigh, he just shook his head in a big no. "He had some of his best men there with him. They are currently searching for him."


    "What actually happened at the site?" She questioned him again, trying to act tough. She knew that she couldn''t be weak at this moment.


    "A number of blasts." Blake replied to her truthfully. He didn''t want to tell her all of this, but at the same time he knew that he had to do it. She had every single right to know all of it. "There were around ten or more blasts all across the project site. There''s nothing left but debris. The team is currently looking through the rubble for any sign of Adam."


    Stella hummed in response as she diverted her teary eyes away from him.


    "Stella?" Wilson softly called out her name to get her attention. "I know him since the day he was born. Trust me that he will be fine." He patted her shoulder lightly as he got a nod from her.


    "Are you guys done making her cry? If yes then move away. She needs to get some food inside her body." A soft yet strong voice interrupted them, making them to shift their attention towards the entrance of the room.


    There stood Lillian at the threshold of the door with an annoyed expression on her face. She walked inside the room with steady steps as she had her eyes fixed on Stella. She was followed by two maids as one of them was holding a tray on which a steaming bowl was placed and the other was holding onto a wooden folding table.


    "I want you two out of here, now." She glared at the two men who looked back at her with confusion. Rolling her eyes, she continued. "She needs to eat and then change into more comfortable clothes." She stated the obvious.


    "We''ll go outside then." Blake was the first one to reply to his woman''s demand as he got up from the bed. He placed a kiss on the side of her head on his way out, whispering into her ear. "Her mind is too fragile right now. Be gentle with her."


    "I will go out as well. But be careful with the IV line on your hand." Wilson spoke up as he saw Blake''s disappearing figure and headed out as well.


    "Place down the food and leave." She ordered the maids who complied to her demands and quietly.


    "Do you need my help with that?" She questioned Stella as she sat on the spot where Wilson was sitting previously, pointing towards the bowl of soup before her.


    "Thank you, but I can manage." Stella gave her a smile before focusing her attention towards the steaming bowl of chicken corn soup. Even though it was her favorite one, she didn''t have much of an appetite for it.


    Lillian continued to observe her movements as she played around with soup. "You know when I first get to know that Adam had finally got himself a girl, the news shocked me to my core. I refused to believe the news, calling it some hearsay until I finally saw you with my own eyes."


    She inhaled and took a brief pause. "At first, I took you for some fling of his, but when I saw his interaction with you, it proved me wrong. When I finally get to know you in person, I realized why he was so smitten by you." She continued to talk as her eyes were set on the marbled floor while Stella looked at her with complicated expressions. It was the first time she had heard her talk for so long.


    Even though Lillian could feel her obvious stares, she didn''t even blink and continued. "You aren''t only beautiful Stella. You have so much more to yourself, and that''s what made him fall for you." She finally looked up from the floor, staring back into Stella''s eyes. "Don''t prove him wrong. Be the girl he knew you could be, with or without his presence around you."


    Stella looked back at her as she frowned. Her words were not sweet, neither they were sugar coated, but they still hit her right where they needed to. Lillian was right, she was right down to the point. She needed to buck herself up and be the woman she was when was with her. She couldn''t give up on herself or their relationship this easily. Moreover, she couldn''t give up on him this easily. She had to be strong enough for the two of them.


    Shifting her attention back to her soup, she gulped a spoonful of the creamy liquid. After a few more spoons, she turned her face towards Lillian who was sitting in the same spot quitely.


    "Can I get some garlic butter? I prefer my soup with it." She asked her, raising her eyebrows a little.


    "I know. They were in the oven when I came upstairs, they will be here in a minute or two." Lillian replied to her calmly with her stoic face.


    Stella nodded her head before dipping her spoon back into the bowl.


    *********


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 Chapter 205 - Eavesdropping

    "Can I get some garlic butter? I prefer my soup with it." She asked her, raising her eyebrows a little.


    "I know. They were in the oven when I came upstairs, they will be here in a minute or two." Lillian replied to her calmly with her stoic face.


    Stella nodded her head before dipping her spoon back into the bowl.


    A little while later, maid entered the room with a plate in her hands. She placed it quietly on the folding table, next to her soup bowl. As the scent of the freshly baked garlic bread entered her nostrils, Stella felt her hunger acting up. She looked at the retreating back of the maid and stopped.


    "Do we have more soup left? If yes, can you please bring me another bowl of it?" She added meekly as she tried to tuck the stray lock of her hair behind her ear but stopped when she saw the IV line move a bit.


    "Give me five minutes, Young Miss. I will bring it over." The maid uttered humbly before heading out of the room.


    "Let me do that." Lillian spoke up after the maid had left the room. Standing up from the chair, she walked towards the dressing table and started to open the drawers, one after the other, until she found what she was looking for. Walking back to the bed, she stopped right next to it. She carefully tucked the stray locks of Stella''s hair behind her ear before securing them with two bobby pins.


    Stella shifted her attention from her food to her and uttered a meek thank you to her, making Lillian roll her eyes in response.


    Unbeknownst to the two women, two ears were pressed against the black oak wood door, eavesdropping on them.


    "At least she''s eating now." Blake whispered to Wilson who just nodded his head in response. They were more worried about Stella than the man who was nowhere to be found at the moment. "I think she will be fine for now, we should head downstairs." He spoke again to the man next to him as he moved his ear away from the door.


    ---------


    Inside the living room, Blake and Wilson were sitting on a sofa as they sipped on their coffees. It was already evening and there was still no news about Adam. His team members had been searching for him not only in the debris but the areas close to the site. Blake had already sent four more teams to the city right after he got the news of the incident.


    His phone began to ring, pulling him out of his thoughts. He connected the call right away after seeing that it was from one of his men. He stayed quiet for a while as he listened to the man.


    "What do you mean that you don''t have a clue about him?" He yelled at the man through the phone, his voice booming inside the quiet living room. "Are you trying to say that he disappeared into the sky? Or the earth engulfed him?"


    "Continue looking for him. Expand your area of search." Blake ordered him before disconnecting the call. He put down his phone, more like smacked it against the wooden table in frustration.


    "What happened?" Wilson asked him with concern. Judging from Blake''s expressions, he could tell that it wasn''t some good news.


    "They haven''t found him yet. The good part is that they have checked through the rubble and he wasn''t among those who were injured as well. They have checked with the hospitals and morgues as well." He answered Wilson.


    "Then why were you yelling at the poor man? Isn''t that a good thing? It means that he''s alive." Wilson frowned in confusion.


    "You haven''t listened to the bad part yet." Blake raises an eyebrow at him before continuing. "If he''s okay, then where is he? He didn''t go back to the hotel or the office. You know why that worries me more? Because for all we know, there are high chances of him being in the claws of the person who did this."


    Wilson began to chew on his lower lip in worry as Blake''s words registered in his mind.


    "You guys are still here?" A voice interrupted the duo, making them to shift their attention towards the door.


    Stella walked in with slow steps, followed by Lillian who was giving them glares. Stella might have not heard their conversation, but due to her sharp hearing senses, she did catch on Blake''s last statement.


    "How are you feeling now?" Wilson spoke up before Blake could, asking her about her health.


    "Much better." She replied to him, giving him a smile in return. After having her soup and garlic bread she had fallen asleep again as her body still needed more time to recover. The four long hours of sleep did her body some good and she was feeling much better, except for the heavy feeling inside her chest. But she knew that no amount of sleep could actually fix that.


    "That''s a good thing." Wilson added, smiling back at her.


    "Is there any news about Adam?" She asked Blake as she sat down on a couch across them.


    "Umm¡­" He didn''t know how to answer her properly. He could see that even though she was acting all tough but she was still the same frail girl who ended up fainting. No matter how hard she was trying to hide it from them, the pain and longing in her eyes made it pretty much obviously.


    "Don''t you dare to lie to me." Stella glared at him. "Tell me the truth." She asked him, silently pleading him with his eyes.


    "At least let him talk." Wilson requested her. He could understand Blake''s trouble.


    "I do have a mild good news." Blake started to talk. "They don''t know where exactly Adam is, but he isn''t under the debris or in any of the hospitals within the city. I have ordered them to look in the areas which are right outside the city''s premises as the site is a bit closer to it."


    Stella heaved out a long sigh which she didn''t know that she was holding in. She was elated to know that he wasn''t found from the rubble of the destroyed buildings. A wave of relief washed over her troubled heart.


    "That''s not bad." She muttered to no one in particular.


    ''I don''t care where the hell you are, you fool. Just be safe. You have to be safe for me, for us. You promised me that you will find your way back to me always. You have to hold it up, you have to stay true to your words, Adam. You know too well that I can''t even function properly without you. How am I supposed to live my life without you? Just come back soon, come back to your little elf.'' She thought to herself as she held the sunflower pendant, tightly in between her palms.


    Stella was lost in her own thoughts while the other three people were sitting quietly when the old butler rushed inside the living room. He was already out of his breath as if he had just run a marathon.


    "Young Masters?" He called out to Blake and Wilson with clearly looking at them as the old man didn''t know when the two ladies came downstairs from the master bedroom. "The news¡­." He trailed off when his mind finally registered the presence of others in the room.


    ********


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 Chapter 206 - The News

    "Young Masters?" He called out to Blake and Wilson with clearly looking at them as the old man didn''t know when the two ladies came downstairs from the master bedroom. "The news¡­." He trailed off when his mind finally registered the presence of others in the room.


    "What happened, Uncle Rob?" The two men couldn''t stop themselves and questioned him at the same time.


    The old butler continued to stood near the entrance of the room with a baffled expression. He didn''t know how to continue or what words to use to explain whatever he wanted to tell them a little while back as his eyes shifted from Stella to the two men and then back to her.


    "Uncle Rob? Are you okay?" Blake questioned him with concern clearly written on his face.


    "I-I-I¡­. The news¡­." He trailed off again after repeating the same words from earlier.


    Stella couldn''t help with her curiosity and stood up. She walked up to the other side of the room where a fifty inch smart LED was fixed in the wall. She raised her hand before the screen with her palm facing it and waves it. The black screen instantly lit up and music of an English song began to reverberate through the quiet the room.


    "Change to a news channel." She spoke softly, but loud enough for the system to register the command.


    As soon as the channel was up, she felt her breath becoming ragged again. The news was about the incident which had happened at the project site. But it wasn''t what shook her to her core, it was the information which followed it.


    "We are sorry to inform our viewers about the demise of Adam Levinson who was the CEO of the Levinson''s Corp." The news caster spoke in his usual professional manner before he passed on the screen to his fellow who was reporting from the project site itself.


    "The rubble you see behind me is what was left of the project between two biggest companies of our country. A few month''s back Levinson''s Corp. signed a deal with Williamson''s Tech. They were about to launch a series of high tech smartphones by the brand name ''Touch''. The project was in its final stages and even the launch date was already announced which was supposed to be at the end of this month but this unsightly incident took place. From our resources we got to know that at the time when a number of blasts were going off inside the buildings, the CEO and the current President of the Levinson''s Corp, Mr. Adam Levinson were present inside the production unit. He was on a visit but little did he know that this visit will turn out to be his last." The reporter continued to provide the viewers with as much information that she could. But Stella couldn''t stand and listen to her anymore.


    She changed to another news channel only to see the same headline under the cold letters of ''Breaking News''. She changed the channel but got the same result. Every single news channel, were showing the same thing but with different words. One thing all of them had in common was the report saying that the CEO of Levinson''s Corp. lost his life in the blasts.


    Stella turned around and glared at Blake and Wilson with her teary eyes.


    "I swear I am lying to you. I don''t know what resources they got this news from but they surely aren''t ours." Blake raises his hands up in the air.


    "I will try to suppress the news a bit. Let me call someone." Wilson spoke up, interrupting the two as he took his phone out. He was about to dial the number of a certain someone, but Stella stopped him.


    "There''s no need to do anything. I am sure whoever the person behind this news thing is, he is the one did that to the site. It''s better if you spend your time on locating him." She rubbed the spot between her brows as he instructed them. She knew this wasn''t as simple as it seemed. And how dare these news channels spout this nonsense when the PR team of the company didn''t release any statement of the sort. They sure were courting their deaths.


    "She has a point." Lillian, who was sitting quietly all this while, spoke up. "It''s useless to try controlling these ba*****s, it''s better we focus on the main issue at hand. Where exactly Adam is."


    "Alright! I will ask the teams to increase the pace of their search." Blake added as he redialed the number from which he had received the call earlier.


    "I will ask the PR team to release a statement. Even though the news is fake, it won''t do good to the company. I won''t be shocked if the value of the company''s shares start to drop any minute." Stella spoke up before heading out of the room. She didn''t bring her phone with her when she came down with Lillian, who knew that she might end up needing it in such a situation.


    Back in the master room, Stella was almost yelling at the head of the PR department. "What were you waiting for?" She was so angry at the man on the other end of the phone when she heard his reply. She had asked him to release a statement saying that Adam was indeed present at the site at the moment of the explosions, but he managed to escape before the production unit went through serious damage. And he was being treated for minor injuries at a private hospital.


    The man had the guts to not only speak rudely to her but refused to do so, saying that he had the draft for the press release but couldn''t publish it because the draft is supposed to be signed by the Vice President before he could do it.


    "I don''t care about the rules. Go ahead and do what I have asked you to." Stella yelled at him again.


    "But, Ma''am¡­. The company''s policy clearly states that¡­.." He tried to make her understand the reason behind his actions but was interrupted by her again.


    "I don''t care about the company''s policy at the moment. Do you not like your job? Just do as I say." Stella disconnected the call right after after ordering him. She couldn''t care less about the company''s policy at the moment. What was the use of keeping the policy intact when there wouldn''t be any company left.


    "I hope this works." She muttered to herself as she gazed at the screen of her laptop which was showing the rise and fall of the stocks of Levinson''s Corp and its subsidiaries.


    ---------


    A week later,


    "Young Miss, there is someone who wants to meet you. He says that it''s urgent." The old butler knocked on the door and uttered.


    She looked up from her laptop and nodded lightly. "Take him to the living room. I will meet him there in ten minutes." She asked the old butler as she her fingers continued to move over the keys.


    ********


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 Chapter 207 - Good Evening, Mr...?

    A week later,


    "Young Miss, there is someone who wants to meet you. He says that it''s urgent." The old butler knocked on the door and uttered.


    She looked up from her laptop and nodded lightly. "Take him to the living room. I will meet him there in ten minutes." She asked the old butler as she her fingers continued to move over the keys.


    She wanted to go and see the person right away but stopped herself from doing so because of how battered she looked. Shutting the screen of her laptop, she headed towards the walk-in closet. No matter how much she hated it, she still needed to look presentable, not for herself but for Adam''s sake.


    A sharp pang shot inside her chest as the familiar name rolled over her tongue. "Adam."


    It had been over a week since he disappeared. Blake had mobilized more of his men to look for him, but the results were the same. He was nowhere to be found. It seemed like he had disappeared into thin air, without leaving a single trace of his existence.


    The whole week had passed by in a blink of an eye for her but it was nonetheless torturous for her. Everyday, someone would pay her a visit to make sure that she was doing fine. Though she was grateful to them for caring for her this much, she just wanted to be alone for now as she could be just herself and didn''t have to act all strong and tough. She was barely holding herself up and it was taking a toll on her health.


    Coming out of the walk-in closet, she heaved out a tired sigh as she looked at her reflection in the mirror of the dressing table. She picked up a pair of black rimmed glasses from the table and put it on. She barely needed those while doing her work but she preferred wearing them these days as they helped a little in covering her red, puffy eyes.


    "Let''s see who is it." She murmured to herself before heading towards the door of the room. She wanted to see who the person was, and what was the reason behind his strange behavior that he didn''t even bother informing Uncle Rob about his identity.


    Usually, It was Blake and Lillian or Scott and Katherine who would pay her a visit at odd hours like this. Liam did pay her a visit as well but he was too busy in handling the company''s affairs currently which didn''t leave much free time on his hands. But he didn''t forget to call her everyday to inquire about her health.


    Stella walked into the room with a blank face. As soon as she stepped inside, her eyes landed on a man who was sitting on the couch in a relaxed position, leisurely sipping his tea as if he was sitting in his own garden, not someone else''s living room.


    He wore a thin metallic frame which rested on the bridge of his nose. Despite looking like a nerd, he owned a handsome face and even she had to agree with it. His black hair was neatly combed back and held in place with either some water based gel or some hair spray.


    "I hope that the coffee is according to your taste." Stella cleared her throat lightly to announce her presence before she spoke up, taking small steps to where he was sitting.


    The man finally looked up as he placed down his mug on the table. His thin lips broke into a bright smile as his eyes met with hers. Getting up, he fixed his dark brought coat and matching tie before extending his hand towards as he greeted her. "Good evening, though it''s already night but it''s a pleasure to finally meet you in person, Miss Stella."


    Stella shook his hand lightly with some caution as she heard him say her name. "Good evening, Mr ...?" She trailed off, hinting that he hadn''t introduced himself yet.


    "Oh! My apologies." He apologized to her when he realized his mistake. "This humble man goes by the name of Alaister Beckwood, but you can just call me Alaister, Ma''am." He introduced himself to her.


    "Please, have a seat Mr. Alaister." Stella added as she pointed towards the couch to which he complied.


    After settling down on the couch across him, she asked him the main question which was troubling her mind. "I hope you don''t mind me saying this, but I don''t think so that we have even crossed each other''s path for even once, Mr. Alaister. But you even know my name, how is that possible?" She narrowed her eyes at him.


    "Let''s just say that we have a common friend, Ms. Martin." He smiled at her. "I apologise for disturbing you at this hour, but I needed to make sure that it will be just you when I talk to you. I don''t mind talking it before Blake and others, but my moral code requires me to keep confidentiality about certain matters." He continued.


    "I am sorry but I can''t understand where you are taking this conversation." She furrowed her delicate brows in confusion. She couldn''t comprehend what matters he was talking about and how did he know about Blake and others.


    "Ms. Stella, I am actually a lawyer by profession. My main reason for visiting you at this hour is that I have to pass on some documents to you." He answered her as he picked up a black leather briefcase next to his feet and put it on the table.


    It was only then that her mind registered the presence of the briefcase. If she had seen it earlier, she wouldn''t have questioned him like that. She would have preferred to directly get to the main point instead of going through the introductions and all since he knew about her already. What made her more curious was the identity of their so called ''mutual'' friend.


    ********


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 Chapter 208 - The Audacity Of That Man

    It was only then that her mind registered the presence of the briefcase. If she had seen it earlier, she wouldn''t have questioned him like that. She would have preferred to directly get to the main point instead of going through the introductions and all since he knew about her already. What made her more curious was the identity of their so called ''mutual'' friend.


    The man opened his briefcase and took out two files and a paper envelope from it before he placed them on the table. Sliding the two files before her, he began to speak. "Ms. Stella, just like I said to you, I am a lawyer by profession. But instead of just dealing with legal matters related to business dealings, I also take care of some others matters. Mr. Adam hired me when he took over the company after his father passed away. Since then, I have been handling his legal matters, whether they are the usual business related ones or his own personal affairs. Besides this I am also involved in his underworld business."


    The more she listened to his explanation, the more confused she became. If this man was even involved in the underworld business, this only meant one thing. He knew Adam for quite a long period of time.


    "What brought you here? What are these papers about?" She questioned him.


    He gave her a professional smile and answered her. "I am sure that you have already seen these papers before." He pointed towards the file on top. "You have already signed these papers."


    "Oh! But he never told me what these papers are actually about." She shrugged in response. Since he was the lawyer, there was no use in hiding things from him.


    The man cleared his throat lightly as he rubbed the back of his awkwardly. He didn''t know how to reply to that but he still did, carefully choosing his words. "These papers are kind of your marriage documents."


    "Huh?" She looked at with a baffled expression, not believing her own ears. ''Looks like all this crying and his absence have finally taken its toll on me.'' She thought to herself as she chuckled lightly.


    Looking at the blank expression on his face, she couldn''t stop herself from questioning him. "You must be joking, right?" Her voice turned meek at the end of her own question when she saw how serious he looked then.


    "The audacity of that man." Stella gritted her teeth in anger. ''How could he do that to her?'' She this herself as she flipped through the pages of the file. They were authentic papers from the City Court with their seal of approval.


    "The papers in the other file, they make you the rightful owner of every single thing he owned." Alaister didn''t let her get used to the first news before giving her another shock. "A wife has the right to access her husband''s property or business, but it won''t be under her ownership. But a husband can make her the owner of everything owned by him through legal process. He made sure that you will have and equal right to his belongings, all of them."


    "You mean he made me his wife and at the same time the rightful owner of all of this?" She questioned him, her eyes were almost popping out of their sockets.


    The man only gave her a slight nod in return. "Boss asked me to come here and hand these to you in case if anything happens to him. More specifically, if he goes missing and hasn''t returned for a week at most. You cannot call it a will, I won''t. It''s more like me fulfilling what I was ordered to do." He gave Stella a pitiful smile.


    "Why would he do all of this?" Stella questioned him again. She couldn''t stop herself from tearing up. How could she after listening to all of this.


    "Isn''t it obvious? He wanted to make sure that you will live a good life even if he''s not around you. He didn''t want people to raise their fingers at you when you continue to live here even if he''s gone. I am not sure why would he disappear out of nowhere, but based on how much I know him after all these years of working with him, he must have had his reasons."


    "So, I just sit back and enjoy this rich life until he returns." Stella added sarcastically as she raised an eyebrow at him.


    "Well, you can do that. Or you can look after the business empire he had left in your care." Alaister replied to her.


    "What if I sell all of it and run?" Stella narrowed her eyes at him.


    "I don''t think so that he will mind that as long as you are happy." He smirked at her, making her shake her head in amusement.


    "No wonder he hired you for dealing with his legal shit, you are damn good at arguing with people." Stella praised him as she gave him a thumbs up.


    The man smiled at her politely and stood up as he closed his briefcase again. "It''s already late, and you should have some rest. I apologise to you again for disturbing you at this hour Ms. Stella¡­ I mean Mrs. Adam Levinson." He corrected himself after calling her with the title of Miss.


    "Oh! One more thing." He added as he was about to walk away after picking his briefcase. "This is for you." He pulled out a small, rectangular brown envelope from his coat''s inner pocket and handed it to her. Before she could question him about it, he walked out of the room without looking back at the woman. His work was done here, it was useless to stay here even a minute longer. Someone definitely wouldn''t like him spending extra time here.


    Stella looked at his retreating back in confusion which soon disappeared from her line of sight. She shifted her gaze towards the table and picked up the files and envelopes from it headed back to her room.


    ********


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 Chapter 209 - Stella Levinson (1)

    Stella looked at his retreating back in confusion which soon disappeared from her line of sight. She shifted her gaze towards the table and picked up the files and envelopes from it before heading back to her room.


    Sitting down in the center of the long sized bed with her legs crossed, she picked up the two envelopes. She shifted her eyes from the small brown one to the large white one, as she decided which one to open first since both of the envelopes were sealed. She focused her eyes on the top left corner of the envelopes and saw a number written in black on both of them.


    ''1...2!'' She trailed her line of sight from one envelope to the other and then back to the first one as she observed the single number written on each. It was obvious that someone had clearly added those to the envelopes. Shrugging her shoulders, she decided to look at the contents of the envelope which was labeled as ''1''. She grabbed the top of the brown envelope and ripped the seal carefully as she didn''t want to ruin whatever it had inside it.


    Stella looked inside only to find a single paper which was neatly folded in a rectangular shape as to fit inside the envelope. Pulling it out, she undid the foldings and as soon as she did, her eyes landed on the handwritten note. Well, it was more of a proper letter than a note as it covered almost the entire length of the paper.


    Her eyes teared up as she looked at the familiar handwriting. Blinking her tears away, she began to read it.


    ''Hey, My Sunshine!


    If you are reading this letter then congratulations, Mrs. Adam Levinson. Oh! How much I wish to call you that myself instead of writing these words. But never mind, there will be a day that I will be able to do that, hopefully. My lawyer must have already explained about the papers to you, he''s a man whom you can trust blindly. No one besides you can understand better why I did what I did. I needed to make sure that you are fine when I am gone.


    Now, coming to us, I am sorry my baby girl. But I give you my word that I will find my way back to you, always. It may take me some time, but I will. I don''t know myself for what reason, this letter may find its way to you. But you need to keep your shit together. And stop with the crying already. You don''t look good with those puffy, red eyes. I would always prefer a smile on that beautiful face of yours. And don''t forget to look after yourself, please, for me.


    I love you Mrs. Adam Levinson, and I will always love you with all of me. xoxo


    P.S. That ring is my promise to you, don''t you forget that.''


    Stella continued to look at the letter as tears rolled down her face. After a while she neatly folded the letter again along the previous creases and put it back inside the envelope. With her tear stained face, she picked up the white envelope.


    After ripping it''s seal she opened it and emptied it''s contents on the sky colored satin sheets. Looking through the contents, she realized it was their marriage certificates and her renewed documents, including her driving license and identity card, stating Adam as her husband. She looked at her own name and found it weird, ''Stella Levinson.'' It would definitely take her some time to get used to it.


    She wiped her tears and began to arrange the documents but stopped in her tracks when her gaze fell on a greeting card. It had congratulations written on the front. She picked it up and opened it only for eyes to tear up again.


    A platinum ring having a large oval shaped diamond in it''s center, was securely placed in the centre of the card with the help of a red ribbon. She untied the knot and brought it close to her face as she observed it. Her eyes shifted to the other side of the card which had something written on it in the same familiar writing.


    ''You didn''t think that I meant the ring which is already resting on your dainty ring finger? I am not that stingy.''


    His words made a smile bloom over her tear stained face. She couldn''t help the hearty laugh which escaped her lips which resonated through the silence of the room.


    "This man is definitely something." She muttered to herself as she slid on the ring on her ring finger, making it rest right next to the ring which Adam had proposed to her with.


    She looked around her and heaved out a tired sigh as her eyes landed on the number of papers and files surrounding her. "Let''s put you guys somewhere safe." She murmured under her breath and began to pick them up, arranging them in order at the same time.


    Once was sure that she wasn''t leaving anything behind, she headed out of the room and made her way straight to his study. After stepping inside the room, she looked for the picture frame which had a picture of a lone lily flower and made her way towards it. There frame was actually hung over a secret safe which was camouflaged with the rest of the wall. Only Adam''s and her thumb print can unlock it.


    After placing the files and documents securely inside the secret safe, she headed back to her room. She surely needed some rest after straining her mind so much to process today''s event.


    She changed into her night wear which consisted of a wide legged, white pajamas with black stripes running along its length and a white full sleeved t-shirt which was too big for her.


    As soon as she buried herself inside two layers of woolen comforters, a yawn escaped her lips. She thought through the day''s event again, thinking about the future at the same time. She knew that she couldn''t continue to stay back at home, she had to do something. Something for their future. With these thoughts running through her mind, she soon drifted off to her dreamland as her tired body couldn''t take it anymore.


    ---------


    The next morning,


    A slender figure moved under the comforters as the bright rays of the Sun landed on the lady''s pretty face, bringing her out of her wonderful dreamland and back to the cruel world. Groaning in frustration, Stella threw the covers away as she sat up straight. Her sleepy eyes shifted to the wall clock and her face brightened up instantly. An evil smile crept on her lips as the gears of her devilish mind began to run.


    She jumped out of the bed and grabbed her phone straight away. Putting in the password, she unlocked it and look for a certain someone''s contact info. Her eyes lit up once she found what she was looking for. She hit the dial option on the screen and put the phone next to her ear, waiting for the person on the other end to pick it up.


    ********


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 Chapter 210 - Stella Levinson (2)

    She jumped out of the bed and grabbed her phone straight away. Putting in the password, she unlocked it and look for a certain someone''s contact info. Her eyes lit up once she found what she was looking for. She hit the dial option on the screen and put the phone next to her ear, waiting for the person on the other end to pick it up.


    A couple of rings later, the call was finally connected. A concerned groggy voice came through her phone''s speaker. "Are you okay?"


    "Yeah! I actually need a favor from you." She asked him in a sweet voice.


    "Anything for you my child." She heard his reply and smiled widely before telling him the reason for calling this early in the morning.


    "I can arrange that." Liam replied to her after listening to her.


    "Thank you so much, Uncle Liam." She thanked him right away and disconnected the call.


    With a jump in her step, she sprinted towards the bathroom to freshen up.


    --------


    At the company''s meeting room, all of the main stockholders were sitting around a long rectangular table. Their eyes were fixed on the empty head chair which belonged to their CEO, Adam Levinson.


    These old men were waiting for some kind of announcement, hoping that it would save the downfall of their stocks as they were too eager to sell theirs if it didn''t happen. They were more curious than an infant who was seeing a balloon for the first time. They wanted to know the reason as to why this sudden meeting was called.


    "I think we have to decide on the new CEO. Where is Liam?" One of them spoke up as he tried to fix his coat which was barely covering his round belly.


    "He will be here soon. We still have fifteen minutes left in the said time. Let''s just hope whoever the new CEO is or will be is someone smart like Adam." Someone else spoke up and their were a few nods as the remaining people agreed with him. The site incident had already caused the company to face some monetary losses, but the news about Adam was making these old almost bald men lose further money as the value of the company''s stocks was dropping down.


    Their attention shifted towards the door which flew open as a woman who was dressed in a dark gray professional attire, entered the room, followed by Liam and Bella.


    Liam walked past her and settled on his own seat which was on the right side of the head chair while Bella continued to stand on her left side with a bunch of files in her hand.


    "Good morning everyone. Sorry to disturb your precious sleep. Stella began to speak up as she walked towards the head chair and settled down with grace. "I''m the one who called for this urgent meeting." She added with a faint smile on her face.


    Except for Liam, the men continued to stare at her in confusion as they could comprehend the meaning behind her words.


    "What''s the meaning of this?" The man with his round belly bulging out, questioned as he stared at Liam who just shrugged his shoulders in response.


    "I will answer your question." She added before turning her face towards Bella, silently asking her to distribute the files around the table. Bella nodded her head and complied with her request.


    "As you can see, I am the new CEO of the Levinson''s Corp." Stella continued to speak once the files were distributed.


    "What atrocity is this? How can you be the CEO? You aren''t related to the Levinsons by blood. I''d the CEO can be anyone outside the family, then why not someone from us or someone who''s name we suggest." Another man spoke as he sat up straight.


    "Aren''t you that personal assistant of Adam''s?" Someone else spoke up as he tried to recognize her.


    "What?" A few eyebrows were raised in question as every man except for Liam stared at her.


    Stella looked around the table at those baffled faces with a calm mind and smirked before answering them. "I was, but not anymore. And why would I need your permission?"


    "Because we invest our money in the company? Even Adam was supposed to listen to us no matter how proud that brat acted." One of the men spoke up as he smacked his hand on the table with much force.


    "Who do think you are to talk about my husband as if he''s no more in this world?" Stella glared at him, sending shivers down his spine. "And all of you¡­" She looked around the table. "Keep your ears open and listen to me clearly because I won''t be repeating it again. I may not be blood related to the Levinsons, but I have every single right to sit here and run this company as I please. And if anyone of you have a problem with that, they are more than welcome to sell their shares to me. I don''t mind buying them at the stock market''s price."


    She took a pause before continuing. "And moreover, you guys only care about the money as to how much profit you make so that you can continue giving your wives and mistresses a luxurious life. I will ensure that you can continue with it."


    "You can not do get." The same man from earlier spoke up again.


    "Oh really?" Stella gave him a smug look. "But my surname says otherwise."


    "What do you mean?" The man''s voice turned a couple of notches down as he questioned her.


    "If you bother opening the files placed before each of you, you guys can see a copy of Adam and my marriage certificate along with a copy of the some other documents which clearly states that I have every single right over the Levinson''s Corp. just like he does, which automatically makes me the fill-in CEO of the company in his absence."


    The men looked at each other in shock before turning their attention towards the file.


    The sound of pages being turned filled the entire meeting room while Stella continued to sit in a relaxed manner. She knew that no matter what these old geezers did or said, wouldn''t change the fact that she was their new CEO.


    "And as for the voting thing is concerned, I think the majority counts, right?" She looked around the table once again. "Since I own the majority of the shares, I don''t mind being the CEO of the company." She smiled politely at them.


    "I don''t mind it either." Liam who was sitting quietly all this time, finally spoke up as he looked at Stella with a proud expression.


    "I have something else for you." She motioned Bella to turn on the LED.


    Soon the blank screen of the LED was lit and a video call came through.


    "Wel, sorry for not being there with you guys, I am currently out of the city. Coming back to the main point, I don''t own much of the shares of the company, but I think combined with the shares of Uncle Liam and my dear Sister-in-law''s shares, my opinion does matter. I don''t have a problem with her being the CEO." Blake smile brightly at the camera.


    ********


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 Chapter 211 - I Miss Being Pampered

    "Well, sorry for not being there with you guys, I am currently out of the city. Coming back to the main point, I don''t own much of the shares of the company, but I think combined with the shares of Uncle Liam and my dear Sister-in-law''s shares, my opinion does matter. I don''t have a problem with her being the CEO." Blake smiled brightly at the camera.


    "Thank you." Stella smiled back at him before asking Bella to disconnect the call.


    "I assume that you people clearly heard him despite of your old ages." She spoke up. "And as far as I know, the shares of Uncle Liam and Blake combined with mine forms around seventy percent of the total shares. I don''t think your opinion matters at the moment."


    "Aren''t you being too arrogant? What if all these documents are fake and you are the one who killed Adam." The same old man spoke up again as he refused to believe her words. He was actually happy when he saw the news thinking that this was the chance for his son to take over the CEO role. The rest of the people would have easily agreed with it. But this woman had to come and ruin it for him. There''s no way he would back down easily.


    "I don''t have the same patience to tolerate you as those buttons of your shirt." Stella added as he pointed towards his bulging belly. "And you can contact the city court or use your own resources to ensure the authenticity of these papers." She continued as she stood up from the seat. "I don''t have much time to waste as I have an entire conglomerate to run." She added with a smirk before heading out of the room, leaving those old geezers to continue their argument on their own. There was no way she would spend another minute to entertain those stupid fools.


    When she was at a distance from the meeting room, she turned her head slightly to her left to see Bella walking a step behind her. "You don''t need to walk a step behind me girl." She reprimanded her in exactly the same way as Adam used to do.


    "But¡­" Bella tried to speak but Stella cut her sentence off right away.


    "No, buts." She added firmly.


    "By the way, how did I do in there?" Stella questioned her once she was walking next to her.


    "You did good, Ma''am." Bella replied to her with a thumbs up sign.


    "That''s good." Stella muttered to herself as the two walked to their respective offices.


    ---------


    Stella walked inside the office with which she was familiar with, after all she had spent the last couple of months of her life going in and out of the very same room. Her eyes shifted to the office desk, a sad smile embracing her lips. It was kept in the same state as when she had visited the office the last time, except for the empty chair behind it.


    With slow yet steady steps, she walked towards the chair. Coming to a stop next to it, her hands moved to the head rest of the leather seat as her slender fingers traced to the sides of the seat. She turned it to the side and sat down with a heavy heart.


    Taking in a deep breath and after calming her jittery nerves down, she focused her attention towards the pile of files which was waiting for the approval of the CEO.


    "Let''s get this done." She tried to encourage herself as she picked up the file which was resting on top, demanding her attention.


    --------


    Five days later,


    Stella walked inside the office dressed in a persian blue blazer and matching pants. An off-white button down shirt was peeking through the lapels of her coat. Her high heeled boots made a clunk sound as she walked towards the chair which now belonged to her.


    After settling down, her eyes shifted to the whole lot of files she needed to go through just today. She rubbed the spot in between her brows as she sensed the headache which would be coming her way after the day ends. Rubbing her already tired eyes, she began to focus on her work.


    For the past few days, she was almost always sleepy and tired, even though she had enough sleep at night. But despite that, she would end up drowsing off while doing some work or even watching a movie or TV show. Last evening, she was going through a project description at home and ended up sleeping with her forehead resting on the table. She woke up two hours later, with her head in the same position and stiff neck and back.


    "How did Adam manage to do all of this?" She exclaimed in frustration after getting half of her work done. She decided to take a break since it was almost lunch time and messaged Bella to bring her some food. While waiting for her meal, her mind ran off to the times when Adam had piles of work to do but he still managed to make time for her. He would always eat his three meals with her, always pay attention to tiny details about her.


    "I miss being pampered." She pursed her lips in a pout as her delicate eyebrows furrowed. Her mood has suddenly turned sour as she realized about his absence, but it didn''t stay like that for much longer as her eyes caught the reflection of the huge rock resting on her ring finger. A smile bloomed on her face. ''I will let it slide just this once.''


    Her thoughts were interrupted by a sudden knock at the door. "Come in." She spoke up loud enough for the other person to hear it clearly.


    The door flew open and Bella walked inside, holding up a tray in her hand which carried her food.


    "Thank goodness you are here, I was starving." Stella exclaimed in joy as she strutted towards the couch.


    Once Bella had left the room after placing her food down, she picked up the knife and fork and dug into her food. After she was done eating, she looked for the wet wipes to clean her hands but couldn''t find the packet.


    "Where did I place them?" She stood up from the couch headed to the room to check whether or not she had placed the packet in there after using them yesterday.


    "Why can''t I never find anything on time?" She cursed her luck after searching through the entire room and gave up. She then headed towards the bathroom to wash her hands.


    On her way out of the room, she stopped in her tracks to take a couple of deep breaths as she began to feel restless. Her heart started to beat erratically and she could feel it thumping inside her ears. The slow and deep breathing didn''t help her much as small black spots began to appear before her eyes, hindering her vision. She tried to take her phone out of her coat''s pocket so that she could call Bella. Just as she took her phone out, her vision turned completely black. Her phone slipped through her fingers and made contact with the marbled floor, producing a loud crashing sound as her legs failed her body and she fell down.


    ********


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 Chapter 212 - hCG

    She tried to take her phone out of her coat''s pocket so that she could call Bella. Just as she took her phone out, her vision turned completely black. Her phone slipped through her fingers and made contact with the marbled floor, producing a loud crashing sound as her legs failed her body and she fell down.


    --------


    "Can you please bring the dishes back?" Bella asked one of the members of the cleaning staff who was passing by her as she was busy with her own work. The man nodded his head in response and headed towards Stella''s office.


    He knocked at the door a couple of times but didn''t hear a response from the inside. Shrugging his shoulders, he walked inside throwing caution out of the window as his previous Boss didn''t mind it. His eyes trailed towards the table before the couch where the empty dishes were placed. He quietly picked him thinking that his new Boss must be inside the room, resting for a while.


    He was about to turn around after picking up the dishes when his eyes accidentally fell on the entrance of the room where the door was left ajar. He caught something reflecting the light in his peripheral vision and walked towards the door to see what the source was, thinking that it must be some glass or a watch most probably.


    His steps slowed as he came to a halt as soon as her eyes landed on the arm and the slender figure which was lying in the doorway.


    "Boss?" He called out softly at first only to get no reply in return. He hurriedly put down the tray back on the table and ran out of the room, heading towards the reception where Bella he had seen Bella earlier.


    "Ma''am?" He called out to her in between his short breaths.


    Bella looked up from her laptop at the man who was standing across the counter. Looking at his breathless state, she frowned. "What happened to you? Why do you look as if you had just run a marathon?"


    "Boss¡­. she¡­ she fainted. I found her lying unconscious on the floor." He added in a single breath.


    "What!" She exclaimed as she stood up from her chair. When he saw him nod his head in confirmation, she started headed right away towards her office. "Call an ambulance right away." She yelled at the top of her lungs in her way. Though they had their own in-house doctor at the company, she didn''t want to take a risk with Stella.


    --------


    Stella shifted slightly in the huge hospital bed as low hum escaped her lips, making the doctor who was on round to shift her attention towards her as she was going through her reports.


    "Are you okay Ma''am?" The nurse who was on duty at the time, asked her with concern when she saw the woman trying to sit up. She quietly supported her back and elevated the head of the bed to make sure she was comfortable.


    Stella looked around the spacy room in confusion as she tried to remember what had happened earlier. "Who brought me here?" She questioned the nurse as she realized that she was in a hospital room.


    "It was your secretary. You overworked yourself and fainted." It was the doctor who replied to her as she walked up to her and observed her vitals on the monitor screen. "Excuse us for some time." The doctor turned her attention towards the nurse and asked her to leave them alone. Since her patient had no simple identity, she couldn''t discuss her medical records in front of anyone.


    After the nurse had left, she turned her attention back to her patient. "Good afternoon, Mrs. Levinson. My name is Dr. Veronica and I am your doctor. We took some blood samples to run some simple tests. All of your reports are fine except for the levels of hCG, they were elevated."


    "Is that a bad thing doctor?" Stella questioned her to get a smile in return.


    "Oh, no! Let me explain it to you." The doctor replied to her as she tried to think of a simple and easy way to break the news to the lady. Judging from her expressions, she definitely had no idea about it. "It stands for human Chorionic Gonadotropin and it''s a hormone which your body produces naturally at a certain period of time. Its level inside your body increases by many folds when your body has to support a new life."


    "W-what life?" Stella looked at her with a baffled expression, her eyes almost popping out of their sockets as she couldn''t believe her ears.


    "Congratulations, Mrs. Levinson. You are pregnant." The doctor gave her a polite smile.


    "I-I¡­ Are y-you su-re?" Stella managed to ask her with stumbling words.


    "I am one hundred percent sure, ma''am. A pregnancy stick test can give you a false positive, but a blood test is never wrong. Since you are clearly in a relationship, I suggested the staff to run the test as the treatment we give to a female patient has to be safe for the fetus." The doctor explained it to her.


    Stella sat there silently as she continued to gaze at the doctor in bafflement.


    "Ma''am? Are you okay?" The doctor questioned her with concern when she didn''t hear a response from her.


    Her voice brought Stella out of her thoughts and she nodded her head in a yes. "So, I''m pregnant?" She quizzically looked at the woman standing before her as she was still having a hard time believing it. After getting a nod from the doctor in confirmation, she didn''t know what to feel. "Can I ask you for a favor?" She asked her doctor. "I don''t want anyone to find out about it. Can you please keep it in between the two of us?" She requested.


    "Of course, Ma''am. It''s the hospital''s responsibility to keep any information about a patient confidential. Especially, if the patient has a complicated identity like you." The doctor replied with a smile.


    "Thank you so much." Stella looked at her with gratitude.


    "You don''t have to thank me at all, I''m just doing my job. And if you don''t have a problem with it, I would like to arrange an ultrasound appointment for you tomorrow morning." The doctor suggested her.


    "Yeah! It''s fine. How does 9 in the morning sound to you?" Stella questioned her to get an okay sign from her. "Will you be doing it yourself?" Stella continued.


    "No, it''s actually a colleague of mine but I will make arrangements to keep your identity a secret from her or the staff that will be accompanying her."


    Stella heaved out a sigh of relief as her mind registered her words. She didn''t want the news about her being pregnant in anyway be some sort of headline. She wanted Adam to get the news first rather than the whole world finding about it.


    Before the two of them could discuss it any further, the door to the room flew open and a couple of people barged in without announcing their presence. Looking at the familiar faces wearing worries expressions, her heart melted into a puddle and her eyes teared up.


    ********


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 Chapter 213 - Little Angel

    Before the two of them could discuss it any further, the door to the room flew open and a couple of people barged in without announcing their presence. Looking at the familiar faces wearing worries expressions, her heart melted into a puddle and her eyes teared up.


    "Are you okay?" Liam asked her with concern. "How is she? Is she okay? What happened to her? Why would she faint out of nowhere like that?" He shifted his attention to the doctor who was standing next to the bed as he started to fire a series of questions her way.


    "Please, tell us." Another voice joined in which belonged to Scott who was standing on the other side of the wide hospital bed. Katherine who was standing next to him, asked a couple of questions regarding Stella''s health as she hugged Scott''s arm tightly.


    "Umm¡­ hold on, please." The doctor raised her hands up in the air. She wasn''t able to understand whatever questions they were throwing her way as their voices were overlapping with each other. "I am sorry, but I can''t get a single word you guys are saying. But I can definitely understand that it was about her health." She added dad she pointed towards the woman who was sitting comfortably on the soft mattress, enjoying the warmth that the covers were providing her.


    "I can assure you that she is completely fine and that there is nothing wrong with her health. She just fainted because she overworked herself and her body couldn''t take it anymore. She just needs to eat more healthy and get some nutrition inside her body." The doctor explained to the three people who were bobbing their heads up and down at her every word.


    "I will ask the old butler to make sure that you don''t skip a meal." Liam added as he threw a glare towards Stella who was sitting with her head lowered down, trying to avoid his gaze.


    "That would be good." The doctor spoke up, interrupting Liam. She didn''t want him to scold Stella as it won''t do the baby any good. It was important for her to not only keep her body but her mind healthy as well. "I hope you don''t mind this but the patient needs some rest, so if you guys could leave. I will ask the nurse to take you to the waiting room and will let you know once she can be discharged."


    "Yeah, sure. Just let us know if she needs anything." Katherine spoke up as she moved her eyes from Stella to the doctor and then back to Stella.


    "I will." She politely smiled towards them as she asked the nurse who had followed them inside to guide them to the VVIP waiting room.


    "You have got a loving family." Veronica smiled at her once everyone else had left, leaving the two of them alone.


    "You haven''t seen the rest of them yet." Stella chuckled lightly. "But, yeah." She nodded her head lightly.


    "So, tomorrow morning at 9 o''clock sharp. Is that fine by you?" Veronica questioned her only to get a firm nod in response. She pulled out a card from the pocket of her doctor''s coat and handed it to her. "It has my personal number, keep it. Just give me a call whenever you need to ask me anything. I will try my best to help you."


    "Thank you so much." Stella took the white card from her and put it securely inside her pants'' pocket.


    --------


    It was around ten o''clock at night when Stella had just finished her dinner for the second time. She still wanted to eat some nachos with some cheesy dip but decided against it as her stomach was already bloaty enough for her to shove anything else inside her mouth.


    After the empty cutlery was taken away my a maid she made her way towards the walk-in closet to change into her night wear. On her way out, she couldn''t help but stop before the full length mirror and look at herself.


    Her hair was tied up in a messy bun with strays of locks escaping from the grip of her scrunchie. The dark circles around her eyes were becoming more and more prominent with each day and her sunken cheeks were enough of a proof that she hadn''t been taking care of herself.


    Heaving out a tired sigh, she scolded herself internally. She knew that she needed to take care of her health more now, whether or not she liked it. Because it was no longer about herself any more. It was about the little life that was growing inside her body.


    Her hands moved towards her belly and rested over it as she looked at her own reflection. "Don''t worry, Mommy''s going to take good care of you my little angel. And when Dad will be back home, we won''t talk to him for a long time as his punishment for leaving your Mommy all alone like this." She muttered to herself as she caressed her belly from over the cloth of her sweat shirt.


    The news about her being pregnant hit her more like a shock, but she was elated by it at the same time. If only Adam was here with her to share this wonderful news. Not even a single day or moment passed by since the incident of the project site that she didn''t miss him. Of course, she was sad but at the same time she was hopeful that he would return, sooner or later, but he would definitely come back to her little elf. She wasn''t worried about whether or not he would return but when he would come back home.


    A lone tear escaped her teary eyes as her thoughts drifted to the person who had gone missing from her life. She knew that even though this baby wasn''t planned or the two of them have never even talked about it or discuss it for even once, Adam would have been elated by the news. He would have been over the moon after knowing that he was going to be a father in a few months.


    "I miss your Daddy so much, little angel." She talked to her baby even though she knew that he or she wasn''t old enough yet to hear her. "If he was here, he would have loved you so, so much. May be way more than how much Mommy loves you." She continued to caress her belly.


    She didn''t want to hide the existence of their baby from the world. She wanted to share the news at least to her friends and family. But at the same time she wanted Adam to know about it before anyone else. And for that, she will keep it a secret for as long as she could.


    "You would want Daddy to find it first, right? So you have to be good to your Mommy, little angel. Don''t give me all that morning sickness. Mommy needs to work and take care of the company as well." She knew that she wouldn''t be able to do all the work if she kept getting nauseous and tired.


    ********


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 Chapter 214 - Dr. Matilda

    "You would want Daddy to find about you first, right? So you have to be good to your Mommy, little angel. Don''t give me all that morning sickness. Mommy needs to work and take care of the company as well." She knew that she wouldn''t be able to do all the work if she kept getting nauseous and tired.


    She made her way back to the bed and tucked herself in, pulling up the hand knitted woolen comforters up to her chin, covering her entire body properly. She wouldn''t appreciate getting a cold, it would just make her life more troublesome.


    "Good night, my little angel." She murmured softly to herself as she closed her eyes, her right palm resting on her stomach as she hugged Adam''s pillow with the other.


    --------


    "Good morning. Isn''t someone too excited? You are fifteen minutes earlier." Veronica smiled at Stella who had just walked inside her room.


    She was wearing a long brown trench coat which covered her body up to her ankles, hiding her work clothes as she didn''t want her clothes to gather much attention. A muffler was wrapped around her neck which was pulled up a little to cover her chin. A pair of dark brown shades rested on her nose, doing the rest of the work to keep her identity hidden.


    She wouldn''t have minded if it was before but she was in the headlines almost every day after she had taken over the company. Moreover, she made it to the front page of a couple of well known magazines since she was the wife of the ''deceased'' CEO of Levinson''s Corp.


    "Can you blame me?" Stella pulled down the muffler and smiled at her as she walked up to her desk and settled down on the seat across her as Veronica motioned her to do so.


    "Nah! You have every right to be excited." She smiled back at her. "But you will need to wait for a little while because my colleague hasn''t arrived yet. I booked you the first appointment of her day." She continued.


    "It''s fine, I don''t mind waiting for a little while." Stella shook her head lightly.


    When the shorthand of the clock struck at nine and the longer one rested over 12, Veronica guided her to another room on the same floor. The two ladies walked next to each other as their heels struck against the polished white and cream tiles lining the corridor. Veronica stopped in her tracks before a light beige wooden door and knocked on it light before entering inside as she asked Stella to follow her in.


    "Good morning, Dr. Matilda." Veronica greeted the woman who was standing on the other side of the table, trying to wriggle her arms inside her doctor''s coat without adding creases to the properly ironed gown.


    "Good morning. Is she the patient you told me about?" Dr. Matilda greeted her back and questioned her as her eyes drifted towards Stella who was standing a step behind Veronica.


    "Yes, she is. You need to make sure that her identity is kept a secret as it''s really important for her." Veronica spoke up as she rubbed the back of her head.


    "Don''t worry, I will make sure that it stays a secret. I will personally do the ultrasound and there won''t be any other nursing inside the room for the time being she is there." Matilda smiled at Stella and nodded her head, questioning her at the same time. "Shall we go now and check on your baby?"


    Stella shifted her eyes towards Veronica, silently inquiring about whether or not she could trust her. As if understanding her worry, Veronica turned her attention towards Matilda and spoke up. "We will join you there in a minute or two."


    "Sure, I will be in the next room." Matilda added and walked out of her office.


    "Stella, I know you are worried and I know it''s hard for you trust anyone else who''s not your family. But trust me on this one. Matilda is an exceptional gynaecologist. That''s the main reason I booked your appointment with her, not some other doctor." She explained it to her as she could understand why Stella was being so cautious. Any normal person would do the same if they were in her position, including her own self.


    "And she''s someone you can put your trust in. I can vouch for her because I know her since the early days of our medical school. She won''t even ask your name herself because I haven''t mentioned it to her. So relax, this much stress won''t be good for the baby. And I will be there with you throughout the process." She continued on as patted her shoulders.


    Heaving out a long sigh, Stella nodded her head. "Alright, let''s do this."


    A minute later the two ladies walked out of the room and entered the room which was right next to it. The spacious room was empty and only the faint sound coming from the machines could be heard. The light blue curtains covering the white walls, made it look like nursery for babies instead of some room for mothers where the got checked up.


    "Come this way, please." Matilda came out from the other side of a blue curtain which was slightly darker in shade as compared to the ones covering the walls.


    Stella quietly followed her inside and saw a small room like space which was bounded by thick curtains from all four sides, ensuring the privacy of the patients. There was a stretcher style bed in the center but it was a bit bigger in size. Next to the bed, was a big cream colored machine which had a number of wires and pipes going in and out of the control panel. A monitor which was placed on the top served as the purpose of a screen.


    "Have you ever had an ultrasound before?" Matilda questioned her to which she shook her head in denial.


    "Do you see these?" Matilda spoke up as she pointed towards a number of probes, each of which had a different shape. "These are called the probes. They produce high frequency sound waves which bounces off your body structures. After receiving the bounced off waves back, an image is produced on the screen allowing us to visualize what''s inside your body."


    "That sounds simple." Stella forced a smile on her making the doctor chuckle.


    "I would need you to remove your coat and change into those as I won''t want your dress to get all crumble up." Matilda added as she pointed towards a light blue gown which was resting on the centre of the bed, neatly folded into a square.


    "Alright." After hearing Stella''s reply, Matilda walked out of the curtained space, giving her some privacy so that she could change.


    "I''m done changing." Stella raised her voice a bit as she was not sure how thick those curtains were after placing her clothes on a stool nearby. She awkwardly waited for the two doctors as she held on the hem of the gown which barely covered her thighs.


    Matilda walked inside with Veronica in tow. She asked Stella to lay down flat on the stretcher style bed to which she complied.


    "Can you please raise your gown upto your stomach?" Matilda asked her politely.


    "Sure." Stella added as her cheeks flushed with different shades of red. She was thanking the heavens above that she was wearing those sunglasses which covered a bit of her cheeks.


    She rolled the gown up and made it rest right over the second last set of her ribs. She was cursing herself for choosing a bright red set of under. If only she knew that she might be asked to remove her pants. ''Well at least, her doctors are females themselves.'' She thought to herself.


    "Thank you. I am going to put this gel over your abdomen. This might feel a bit cold." Matilda added as she picked up a bottle which had some clear jelly like substance inside.


    It was then she realized that the two ladies were now wearing gloves and masks. She hadn''t paid much attention to them when return back in her shy state.


    Matilda out some of the gel on her abdomen, right above her navel and smeared it over the with the help of a flat head probe. "How does it feel?" She questioned her patient.


    "It feels cold and sticky. But besides that it feels okay I guess." Stella replied to her as she took in a deep breath and exhaled it out.


    Matilda chuckled at her response. "It is supposed to feel like this, so there''s no need for you to become nervous."


    ********


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 Chapter 215 - Two Little Rice Grains

    "It feels cold and sticky. But besides that it feels okay I guess." Stella replied to her as she took in a deep breath and exhaled it out.


    Matilda chuckled at her response. "It is supposed to feel like this, so there''s no need for you to become nervous."


    "It''s just my first time, so...yeah! I''m hella nervous about it all." Stella replied to her as she continued to gaze at the pure white ceiling of the room. What worried her most was that she didn''t have anyone on whom she could rely on. She was on her own in this, all alone.


    Thinking about it, she realized that she had changed so much after Adam walked into her life. The girl who was once on her own and didn''t even give it a single thought, was now worrying about the same thing. Never in her life did she imagine that the presence of a person could affect her so much. Without even realizing it herself, she had become so dependent on Adam. She was so used to having him around her, that his absence seemed like some sort of punishment for her existence.


    "I would suggest that you remove those sunglasses so that you can clearly see it." Matilda''s voice brought her out of her thoughts, making her to shift her eyes to the screen on her left. Just like the doctor had suggested, she couldn''t see anything on the screen except for some dark and light patches which she couldn''t actually make out.


    Heaving a sigh, Stella removed her glasses and put them on the bed after folding it''s sticks. A monochrome image of light and dark shadows graced her sight as soon as her eyes landed on the screen.


    "Do you see that?" Matilda pointed towards one corner of the screen after setting the probe in her desired position.


    Her words made Stella focus on the place where she was pointing at. All she saw was some contrasting shadows in black, gray and white. Even after trying so hard, she couldn''t make out anything.


    As if sensing her trouble, Matilda turned to look at her. "Damnnnnn!" She exclaimed in shock as she wasn''t able to hold herself from doing so.


    "Now you know why I came looking like an E.T?" Stella tried to crack a joke.


    "Even I would prefer looking like an E.T if I were you girl." Matilda shook her head. "I don''t think that even a day passes by without you being in the news."


    "Yeah." That was the only thing Stella could say in return.


    "Well coming to the main point. We are here to talk about your babies." Matilda added, reminding herself not to get off track. "Do you see that those two teeny tiny shadows? Those are your babies." She pressed a couple of buttons on the machine to zoom in so that Stella could clearly see the tiny shadows which were barely the size of two rice grains.


    "You mean that small thing is my baby?" Stella questioned her, keeping her eyes fixed on the screen.


    "Shadows, Ma''am. Not one but two shadows." Matilda corrected her.


    "What do you mean by two shadows?" Stella finally realized that the doctor was addressing her little angel in plural.


    "Two means two." Matilda frowned her eyebrows at her dumb question.


    "I know what two means. What I am trying to ask is that why would you say ''two'' shadows? Is that like some sort of medical term." Stella asked her again. ''Don''t say what I am thinking, please.'' She was hoping that her hunch would be wrong.


    "Nah! It''s just means two, like old school two. You are pregnant with twins Mrs. Levinson." Matilda''s words rang through her ears.


    The room fell under silence for a while as Matilda continued to examine her, moving the probe over her abdomen as she tried different angels so that she could have better visualization. While Stella was still under shock as her mind crashed, refusing to process anything.


    "A-are you sure?" She questioned the doctor, who nodded her head in response.


    "Do you see these two barely differentiable spots?" She made Stella shift her attention to the screen again. "It usually means, twins. Though it''s too early to say and the light one can just be an echo image. And I might be wrong, but the chances of them being twins are high. I am trying to get a better image of them but because of the location of the second fetus, it''s too hard even for me." She explained it to Stella.


    "Oh!" That was the only word that Stella managed to speak, as her mind couldn''t comprehend anything the doctor was saying.


    Matilda presses a couple of buttons and the image on the screen froze for a couple of seconds as it got saved. After taking some other shots, Matilda out down the probe back to its original place and shifted her attention towards Stella who was lying too quietly for her liking.


    "There you go." She handed her a couple of tissues. "You can wipe off the gel and change into your clothes. If you need more of these, there''s a tissue box right there." She added, pointing towards a small table which was next to the stool on which her clothes were resting on. "Me and Veronica will be waiting for you outside." Saying that, the two doctors walked out of the curtained portion, leaving her alone.


    Stella quietly did what she was asked to do. Five minutes later, she walked out of the curtained area with her sunglasses and muffler in hand.


    "You can go and wait with Veronica in my office. I will get your reports and join you guys there." Matilda spoke up before heading further inside the room. She could have asked some staff member to print out her reports but she couldn''t as the reports would have bared Stella''s name right on the top.


    --------


    Stella and Veronica were waiting inside the office just like they were asked to.


    "Are you alright?" Veronica asked the woman sitting next to her with concern. Though Stella wasn''t that much talkative, but she had been way too quiet after Matilda had told her about her being pregnant with twins.


    "Yeah!" Stella heaved out a long sigh. "It''s just, it''s too much for me to process."


    "I can understand. It isn''t easy when you are on your own. But with time, you will get used to it. Because you know that you have to be strong for your baby. And in your case, it''s babies. Take it from a woman who''s a single mother herself." Veronica have her a polite smile.


    "I didn''t see that one coming." Stella looked at her with a shocked expression. Who would have thought that her doctor could actually understand her dilemma.


    "You''ll do fine, Stella. You''ll do just fine." Veronica patted the back of her hand which was resting on the arm of the chair.


    Before Stella could thank her, the door to the room flew open and Matilda walked inside with a white envelope in her hand which bore the name of the hospital in bold and capitalized letters.


    "There you go, Mrs. Levinson." She handed the envelope to Stella walked around the table to sit in her chair. After settling herself down, she continued. "For the next four months, you will have to visit me at least once each month. I will arrange for the appointments and inform you myself or Dr. Veronica will do that. You will have to maintain a healthy diet and eat as much as you want to because the babies depend on their mother for nutrition. I would prefer it if you can avoid alcohol until the babies are out in this world, and smoking too. You need to avoid caffeine as much as possible and make sure whatever fruits and vegetables you consume are properly washed. Do not eat raw or undercooked fish or meat."


    Stella continued to nod her head at her every word, silently making a checklist in her mind about the dos and don''ts. A little while later, she headed out of the room after her doctor was done giving her a lecture about what she should and shouldn''t do.


    After exiting the elevator on the ground floor, she found herself walking towards the exit but accidentally bumped into a man who was coming from the opposite direction. As a result of the collision, the envelope in her hand slipped through her hold and fell down on the ground.


    "I am so sorry. Let me get it for you." The man spoke up politely as he offered her his help and bent down to pick the white envelope from the tiled floor.


    Stella, who was about to apologise for her absent mindedness, found the words stuck at the back of her throat after hearing the familiar voice. She internally cursed herself for being so forgetful.


    ********


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 Chapter 216 - I Dont Care

    "I am so sorry. Let me get it for you." The man spoke up politely as he offered her his help and bent down to pick the white envelope from the tiled floor.


    Stella, who was about to apologise for her absent mindedness, found the words stuck at the back of her throat after hearing the familiar voice.


    She internally cursed herself for being so forgetful. How could she forget that her dear brother-in-law was a doctor in the same hospital. She stood rooted to the ground as she continued to curse herself internally. "There you go, Miss." Wilson''s voice brought her out of her thoughts, causing her to shift her eyes from the top of his head to the white envelope.


    She was about to take the envelope from his hand and head out of the hospital without even uttering her thanks, but his voice stopped her from doing so.


    "Stella?" Wilson looked at the lady before her in confusion as he furrowed his eyebrows.


    Only after she heard him call her name, she realized that her muffler had slipped down and the lower half of her face was no longer covered. ''Damn! It must have slipped down when I bumped into him.'' She thought inwardly as she tried to look for an excuse at the same time.


    "Oh! Hey, Wilson." She gave him her usual smile as she tried her best to act casual.


    "What are you doing here?" He questioned her. "And that too like...this?" He trailed his eyes over her figure which was hidden under her long trench coat.


    "Actually, I forgot to pick some of my reports yesterday and got a call from my doctor last night. She did say that she could have someone else deliver at home later on today but I declined her offer. Since the hospital is on my way to the office, I thought why not pick them up myself. And as for my get up, you know how is it in the news these days. I didn''t want to catch much attention." She spoke as fast as she could without taking a single breath in between her sentences.


    "Oh! That explains this." He nodded his head understandingly as his trailed back to the envelope. "So, the reports are okay, right?" He asked her while turning the envelope around. But before he could do it, she grabbed the envelope quickly, snatching it away from his hands.


    She knew she couldn''t let him see the name of her consulting doctor or else he might end up knowing that she went to see a gynaecologist. There was nothing in it, but she couldn''t let anyone else find about the pregnancy before Adam. She had already decided to keep it a secret for as long as she could.


    "Yeah! The reports are completely fine." She smiled at him again.


    "That''s a good thing." Wilson pursed his lips and nodded. Though he found her actions a bit weird, he decided to turn a blind eye to it, thinking that she must be running late for the office. "You could have asked me. I would have picked them up and brought them over at your place."


    "It just escaped my mind that you are one of the senior consultants and surgeon here. I just remembered it after seeing you here, or else I would have." Stella muttered her answer. "I should get going now, I have a meeting at the office in fifteen minutes. Don''t want to be late. I will see you later." She continued as she gave him a quick hug and made her way out of the hospital entrance without waiting for his reply.


    Looking at her departing figure, Wilson just shrugged his shoulders. "See you later." He muttered under his breath before heading towards the elevator.


    -------


    Back at the company, Stella was sitting quietly with her eyes fixed on the top right drawer of her desk. She had placed the envelope inside the drawer right after arriving at the office. She was battling with her own self as what to make of the news.


    Not only was she pregnant, but she was pregnant with twins. And the father of her children, her dear husband, was nowhere to be found. And to top it off, she had no idea when he might return. Would it be today? Or tomorrow? Or a week later? She had no clue about it. For all she knew, he might even take a month, or months for that matter, to come back to her.


    Heaving out a long frustrated sigh, she unlocked the drawer after scanning her thumb on the biometric lock. Taking out the white envelope, she took her reports out and began to read them. The whole bunch of some technical words went right over her head, without making any sense to her mind. Skipping her way through the words when turned the page only to find a bunch of monochrome images. They were the same images that the doctor had shown her earlier.


    Looking at the two tiny spots which were pointed out and distinguished from their surroundings by a red circle around them, she felt her heart getting heavier. The rims of her eyes turned red as they teared up. Her lips curled up in a silly smile as a couple of tears rolled down her cheeks. If someone would have seen her like this, there was no doubt that they would have found her crazy.


    Her fingers moved towards the images and lingered over the small spots which were merely the size of a rice grain. "My babies." She mumbled to herself as her lips quivered. "Your father definitely has some strong swimmers. Not only did he manage to knock me up, but he got two in one shot." She chuckled to herself as the tears continued to roll down her cheeks.


    A knock at the door made her aware of her surroundings and made her realize that she wasn''t at home. "Who''s there?" She asked as she pulled out a couple of tissue papers from its box.


    "It''s me, Bella, Ma''am." Bella announced her presence. "The Vice President of R&E Group of Companies is here with his team. You had a meeting scheduled with him today, but he''s five minutes early." She continued.


    "Alright! Ask them to wait for me in the conference room. I will join them in a while." Stella cleared her throat and replied to her. She cursed herself under her breath for not keeping track of time as she dabbed the tissue papers on her cheeks and eyes. Her movements were careful as she didn''t want to ruin her mascara and liner. ''Thank God that they are waterproof.''


    After fixing herself up, she put the reports back in the envelope and placed it in the same drawer. She didn''t forget to lock it up before heading out of her room.


    --------


    Stella walked inside the conference with Bella in tow. "I hope I didn''t make you guys wait for long." She smiled politely at the people who were sitting around the large circular table.


    "No, you are on time, Mrs Levinson." It was Benjamin who spoke up as he stood up from his chair in respect. He knew had to show it whether he liked it or not. Who could dare to mess with the current CEO of Levinson''s Corp. Moreover, he knew that he needed to have good terms with the woman who was standing before him with her head held high as the future of his father''s company depended on her decision today.


    "I know." Stella replied smugly as she sat down on the head chair and motioned the other party to begin the discussion.


    Benjamin sat down and cleared his throat. "You know the reason why we are here today. I don''t know what went wrong when the materials were being transferred to the new subsidiary of Levinson''s Corp. But I assure you that they were completely fine before they left our warehouse. I checked them myself before giving the cargo a green signal."


    Before he could say anything further, Stella raised her hand up as she motioned him to stop. "I know where you are coming from Mr. Benjamin. But it doesn''t change the fact that my company received damaged raw material. I don''t care when it happened or how. What I know is that it annuls the contract. Your company breached it as it failed to deliver the said products within the given timeline." She shook her head sideways.


    "But¡­.." Benjamin tried to reason with her but she interrupted him again.


    "Like I said before. I don''t care." Stella smiled at him. "Your company breached the contract and has to pay the penalty. The exact amount which is written in the contract."


    ********


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 Chapter 217 - A Sensible Human Being

    "But¡­.." Benjamin tried to reason with her but she interrupted him again.


    "Like I said before. I don''t care." Stella smiled at him. "Your company breached the contract and has to pay the penalty. The exact amount which is written in the contract."


    Her lips curled up in a smirk as she continued to sit in a relaxed manner, leaning her back against the back of her comfortable swiveling chair.


    Benjamin gritted his teeth as he tried to keep his temper in control which was building up inside him. The longer he looked at the smirk resting on her calm face, the more he felt the urge to teach her a lesson. He wanted to wipe that smirk off her face so badly. ''If only my stupid date hasn''t messed with her that day, I would have easily managed to woo her over. Especially now that her man was no longer her by her side.'' He thought to himself while cursing the woman before him.


    "I know, but the penalty. It''s just too much." Benjamin exhaled out a sigh and tried to change her mind, giving it his best. Even if he couldn''t make her give his company another chance, he could at least try his best to make her lower down the penalty. He knew that the company was barely holding up and if they paid this penalty, they wouldn''t be left with anything and the company would go bankrupt.


    "Mr. Benjamin, what do you think we are doing here?" Stella narrowed her eyes at him as her expressions became serious. "Are you playing some sort of game here where you can decide the rules as you please? Or are you actually running a company?" She continued, keeping her eyes fixed on his face which was losing its color after hearing her words.


    A low chuckle escaped her lips, sending shivers down the spine of every person who was in the room except for Bella. "Who made you the Vice President of a company when you don''t even know the basics of business?"


    Benjamin stared at her in shock as she continued to take jabs at his ego by the use of some mere words. Getting humiliated by a woman and that too bekore the members of his legal team, didn''t settle well with him.


    "Can you please refrain from making personal remarks, Miss?" He raised an eyebrow at her as he tried to save whatever dignity he had left after being reprimanded by her like teenage kid who was doing really bad at a subject.


    "When did I make a personal comment about you? I was just commenting on your lack of knowledge about business." Stella gave him a lopsided grin. "You don''t think of it as a simple game, and even if you do, there are certain rules which you have to follow whether you like it or not. You can not go around breaching a contract with one of the biggest conglomerates of the country and then come knocking on their doors, demanding for a change in a signed contract. You don''t get to do it."


    Benjamin couldn''t take it anymore after hearing her lecture and slammed his palms on the desk, taking everyone by surprise. "I know what you are doing, you wench. Is it about that other night when my date humiliated you before a whole lot of people? Is this your way of taking revenge on me?" He raised his voice a couple of notches and yelled at her, paying no attention to the glares and stares that his legal team was throwing his way. They knew that he was going to mess up the situation, making it much worse for them to handle.


    In response to his mindless yelling, Stella just smiled at him. "I am not that petty of a person, Mr. Benjamin. If it wasn''t for you reminding me about it just now, I wouldn''t have even remembered it. And secondly, it''s not about me or you. It''s about the company. What do think would have happened to the name of Levinson''s Corp. if we would have used the defective material in our products. Do you know how badly it would have affected our reputation and the public''s trust in the company''s name?" She threw a series of questions his way, as she continued to keep her calm.


    Benjamin opened and closed his mouth a couple of times, but no words made their way out. He couldn''t think of anything to retort against her words. He knew that every single word of what she had said was right. He pursed his lips as he shifted his eyes away from her face. "I-I am sorry. I shouldn''t have used that tone with you." He tried to salvage the very situation he himself had ruined.


    "I can understand you, Mr. Benjamin. If my company was drowning in so much debt as yours, I would have lashed out just like you after hearing about a penalty." Stella added with a faint smile, not bothering to hide the mockery behind her words.


    "The most I can do for you is to give you some time to gather all that amount of money. I will ask my lawyer to get in contact with your legal team as I need some assurance that you will pay Levinson''s Corp. every single penny of that penalty." Stella added as she stood up from her seat. This was getting too boring for her liking and she couldn''t waste any more of her time on this buffoon.


    "I look forward to hearing from your lawyer." The man who spoke up this time was the head of the legal team of R&E Group of Companies.


    His voice caught her attention and she shifted his attention to him. ''Finally, a sensible human being.'' She gave a professional smile and nodded her head.


    "Since everything has been cleared, the meeting is adjourned. If you have any more questions, you can ask my lawyer about it." She spoke up, but this time she didn''t bother to even look at Benjamin who was sitting in his chair with an ashen face.


    She nodded towards his legal team as they stood up to show their respect when she began to head out. As she walked out of the conference room, she only had one thing on her mind. ''You took what rightfully belongs to me. There''s no way that I am letting you keep it any longer under your claws. It belonged to a Martin, it will always belong to a Martin.'' In contrast with her thoughts, a loving smile graced her lips as she continued to walk towards her office, nodding her head at times in return to the greetings of her staff members.


    --------


    One month later,


    A matte black Audi A6 Sedan, came to a stop before the tall building bearing the name of Levinson''s Corp. in golden color. The driver hurried out of his seat and walked around the car hurriedly to open the door for his Boss, but he was too late as the backseat door was opened from the inside. A dainty but toned leg which was clad in a black skinny fit jeans, stepped out of the door and was soon followed by its partner.


    "Damn!" The driver cursed himself under his breath as he wasn''t able to make it to the door in time.


    "You still didn''t make it in time." Stella gave her driver, who was none other than Edward, a smirk.


    "I had to run all the way here. It''s not my fault that you don''t sit on the other side." Edward glared at her to which she just shrugged and stepped away from the car door so that he could close it.


    "I will see you later." Stella gave him a polite smile and made her way towards the entrance of the company where one of the security guards was already waiting for her, holding the glass door ajar.


    "Good morning." She greeted the guard with a bright smile as she stepped inside the building. "How''s your daughter doing now?" She asked him with concern as his daughter was under the weather last week and he had asked the HR department for an off.


    "She''s doing better now. Thank you for asking Boss." The security guard bowed his head lightly in gratitude.


    "Oh! It''s no big deal. Let Bella know if you need any help or an off day to spend some time with your daughter." Stella gave him a polite smile before walking towards her personal elevator.


    Back at the top floor, the entire floor was filled with the sounds of greetings as every employee who passed by her greeted their Boss with a wide smile. Stella replied to their greetings with them same zest and enthusiasm, giving each of them her signature smile.


    ********


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 Chapter 218 - Interviews

    Back at the top floor, the entire floor was filled with the sounds of greetings as every employee who passed by her greeted their Boss with a wide smile. Stella replied to their greetings with them same zest and enthusiasm, giving each of them her signature smile.


    Her leather boots struck against the tiled floor with each of her step. She fixed her black knee length coat which she was wearing over a baggy off-white turtleneck woolen shirt, as she continued to walk towards her office.


    "Good morning, Bella." She greeted Bella as she passed by her. Her cheery voice made Bella look up from the tablet she had in her hands.


    "Nice outfit." Bella commented on her appearance, as her eyes trailed her figure.


    "Well, why do you think I love winters. You can put on as many clothes as you want and it will still make sense to others." Stella gave her a bright smile. "Oh! How did your date go last night?" She questioned her as her eyes began to glow with glee.


    "Umm¡­" A faint blush spread across her cheeks as she trailed off, not knowing how to answer her Boss.


    "Oh, come-on. You don''t have to act shy before me. Did he take you to some place romantic? Or it was just the two of you at his place or your apartment? And did you guys did ''it''?" Stella began to inquire her as she looked at her secretary with hopeful eyes just like that of an excited child.


    "Umm¡­ He took me out to a restaurant last night and proposed to me, asking me to marry him." Bella meekly replied to her, keeping her voice as low as she could.


    Stella''s eyes widened in surprise as the smile gracing her rosy lips, became wider. "So, did you say yes?" She raised her delicate eyebrows as she questioned her.


    Bella could only nod her head in a yes as she was too shy to say it out loud.


    "Girl, I am so happy for you." Stella exclaimed in joy as she threw her arms around her and hugged her. "Have you guys decided on the date? And don''t forget to invite me." She patted her back lightly before letting go of her.


    "Not yet. And of course I will invite you, Boss." Bella gave her a polite smile before smacking herself on her forehead as she remembered the important thing she had to inform Stella about. "Well there are a few interviews I have scheduled for today. Are you sure that you want to do it yourself? I mean I could interview them?" She informed her Boss.


    "No! It''s fine. I will do that myself, you can do your own work. I have already troubled your enough. It''s been more than a month already, it is time that I get myself a personal assistant." Stella shook her head as she turned down her offer. Bella had helped her enough all this while, she didn''t want to trouble her any longer.


    After chatting with her for a while, Stella finally made her way to her office. The first thing she did was to get rid of her knee length coat. Hanging it on the mahogany coat rack that she had moved from the room, out in the office where it stood proudly like a tall tree a few steps away from the door.


    She walked towards her desk and sat down one the swiveling leather chair on which a cozy fur cover rested, making it more comfortable for her to sit. She looked around the office as her eyes trailed over the changes she had asked the interior designer to add to the room. It still had all those dull colors which Adam preferred but adding a bunch of things, made it obvious that it belonged to a female now.


    "Let''s get to work." She heaved out a frustrated sigh as her eyes shifted to the hug pile of files waiting on the left side of the desk patiently for her.


    During the span of a month, she had managed to get the company back on its track. All the subsidiaries under Levinson''s Corp. were doing good if not better than before as the value of their shares came back to what it was before Adam disappeared.


    The company was getting more and more offers each day, but she was way too selective about which company she wanted to work with. Though it earned her a lot of negative comments from the companies she declined to work with and the media, but she couldn''t care less about what they had to say about her as long as she knew that her decisions were right.


    Her easy going nature with her staff had also earned her some plus points in their eyes. No one would talk bad about her, no matter at what position they worked in the company. She was way too good with her employees, but at the same time she also knew when to act like a strict CEO like Adam. Her way of dealing with problems and people didn''t give the employees a chance to act out of their place or dally when doing their assigned work.


    Time flew by as she worked her way through the files, one after the other. A knock at the door made her aware of the time. It was close to her break time but she still had to deal with some human beings first who had bothered to apply for the position of her personal assistant.


    "Come in." She closed the file which was before her and spoke loudly, making sure that the person on the other side of the door could hear her words.


    A girl who was dressed up to the nines, walked inside her office. Her heels clinking against the marbled floor as she sauntered her way towards her desk.


    Just merely looking at the woman was giving Stella a headache as her sharp perfume wafted up her nose.


    ---------


    Half an hour later, Stella sat quietly on her seat, holding her head in between her palms as she massaged her temples. "Damn! It''s harder than I thought it would be." She muttered to herself as she continued to massage her temples. Within half an hour, she had managed to interview around ten people, half of which didn''t even made to the chair across her and were asked to leave right after they stepped inside the office. The other half were more focused on bootlicking, which for the record, she hated to her core.


    She buzzed Bella through the intercom, asking her to come to her office right away. As soon as Bella entered, she saw her aggrieved expression and couldn''t help but chuckle. "I told you that I can do it for you. I knew you''d hate it." She spoke up as she walked up to her desk.


    "How many people do we have left?" Stella questioned her while ignoring her remarks. She wasn''t in the mood to entertain her.


    "One more left, a man." Bella replied to her.


    "Send him in. The sooner I get done with this, the better." Stella pursed her lips in an adorable pout. She looked no less than a baby who was forced by her parents to finish off her homework.


    "Oh, wait!" She stopped Bella just as she was about to go out. "Is my lunch ready?" She questioned her and continued after getting a confirmatory nod from her. "Why don''t you send him inside with it? He''s after all here to be my personal assistant." She just couldn''t control her hunger anymore. Moreover, she could bet that her babies were hungry as well.


    Bella shook her head in helplessness as she walked out of the room after giving her an okay sign.


    A few minutes later, a man who was dressed in a black checkered suit walked inside the office after knocking at the door lightly. He was holding a tray in his hands which was filled with food, leaving no space for even a napkin or tissue paper.


    "Good morning, Ma''am." He politely greeted Stella as she walked up to her desk down the tray right before her. He continued to stand across the table from her as she checked whether the steak was cooked according to her preference. She sliced it in two equal halves to check that it wasn''t raw from the center.


    A satisfied smile embraced her lips when her eyes landed on the perfectly grilled piece of meat. She was about to dig into her when she realized that she wasn''t the only one in the room. "Please have a seat." She added as she motioned the man to sit on the chair across her, inwardly scolding herself for being so forgetful.


    ********


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 Chapter 219 - David Morrison

    A satisfied smile embraced her lips when her eyes landed on the perfectly grilled piece of meat. She was about to dig into her when she realized that she wasn''t the only one in the room. "Please have a seat." She added as she motioned the man to sit on the chair across her, inwardly scolding herself for being so forgetful.


    ''Does being pregnant makes you forgetful?'' She wondered to herself. ''Or it might just be the hunger getting up to my brain.''


    "So, can we start with your name?" She questioned him as she was finally able to shift her attention towards the man sitting across from her. She had to agree that he was indeed handsome with his broad stature. His lightly wheatish skin tone suited his chiseled face and the bunch of dark brown wavy locks added more to his beauty.


    The man nodded his head in a yes in response to her question before realizing that he had to answer that verbally as well. "It''s David, David Morrison." He added with a blank expression as he kept his eyes fixed on her face.


    "Mr. Morrison, tell me something about yourself." Stella questioned as she gazed back into dark brown eyes which complimented his hair.


    --------


    Stella sliced through the last piece of her steak and ate it, before shifting her line of sight towards the man across the table. She had asked him a hell lot of questions while she continued to enjoy her lunch. He had answered every single one of it with precision. Moreover, he had a serious and quiet personality which she preferred over those jovial characters which she interviewed earlier.


    "Can I be honest, Mr. Morrison?" She looked up at him to get a firm nod in response. "I like your personality, David. It''s perfect for the job and for me. Congratulations." She smiled at him.


    David continued to gaze at her smiling face for a couple of seconds, without blinking his eyes. "Thank you. When can I join?" A small smile appeared on his lips as he asked her.


    "If you don''t mind, today. You are properly dressed for the job. I have a meeting in an hour and it would be great if you could come with me." She asked him as she gave him a hopeful look.


    Heaving out a small sigh, he nodded his head in agreement. ''How can anyone say no to those eyes?''


    "Well, that''s great." She clapped her hands twice as the smile on her widened. "And can you ask Bella to send someone who could take these out?"


    "I will do that, Boss." He shook his head and picked up the tray on which a completely wiped off plate rested.


    "Can you ask her to send something I can munch on while I go through these files?" She asked him, stopping him in his tracks.


    The man quietly looked at the tray in his hands and then at her before nodding his head in a yes. ''She sure have a big appetite. But where does all this food go?'' He shook his head helplessly as he walked out of the room.


    --------


    "Good afternoon, everyone." Stella spoke up as she entered the conference room. She wanted to use the meeting room as it was more vast and illuminated by natural light. But she decided against it because of its glass walls as she hated people peeking inside or the people who were inside zoning out as they gazed out of the room.


    "Good afternoon." Blythe greeted her back as his eyes drifted to the man who was following her. "You finally got yourself an assistant, good for you." He commented as he gave the man a slight nod.


    "If you are done observing the people around me, can we please get on the main point. I don''t have much time to entertain you." Stella rolled her eyes at him as she settled on the head chair.


    "Well, here''s the prepared contract. You just need to sign it." Blythe motioned a man who stood up from his seat and walked up to her. He placed a black file case before her and walked back to his seat.


    "Ha ha ha! As if I''ll sign it before making sure you haven''t hidden a loophole in it." Stella raised an eyebrow at him as she faked a laugh.


    "I know you won''t. So, take your time. You know that I wouldn''t mess with you or someone else might have my neck for dinner." Blythe winked at her.


    "Yeah! I can see that." Stella spoke up as she pointed towards his neck with her eyes, silently asking him to fix his collar up which was barely covering the glaring red hickey.


    Shaking her head, she looked at the empty seat on her right and frowned. She turned her head around to see the man still standing a step behind her chair. "What are you standing there, man? Sit down." She narrowed her eyes at him while pointing her index finger towards the empty seat.


    "Sorry." The man uttered a meek apology as he scratched the back of his head and occupied the seat just like he was asked to.


    -------


    "There you go." Stella signed the papers and passed the file to Blythe who was too engulfed in his phone that he didn''t even hear her.


    Stella shook her head sideways. Judging from the smile on his face and the tenderness with which he was staring at his phone''s screen, she could tell with whom he was chatting with.


    "Earth to Blythe?" She smacked her palm flat on the table, startling him.


    "What the f**k, Stella?" He threw a deadly glare towards her before shifting his eyes back to his phone which was now resting on the floor instead of his fingers. Her sudden yelling startled him out of his senses and his phone slipped through his fingers as his hold around it loosened.


    He picked up the phone from the ground and checked whether it was still working or not without paying any attention to the number of stares his subordinates were giving him. He heaved out a long sigh of relief as he looked at the cracked screen which was still somehow working.


    "Are you crazy?" He narrowed his eyes at her. Who does that?"


    "Who zones out in between a meeting? There you go." Stella smacked the file before him as she stood up from her chair. "I have signed the papers. You can check it and let me know if there''s a problem." She spoke up before she heads out of the room, without waiting for his response.


    The room was engulfed in silence as the people inside continued to stare at their Boss, thinking that he had messed it up. But little did they know that Blythe and Stella were good friends as Blythe had offered her his help on different occasions during the last one month. Moreover, he helped her out with the new subsidiary of Levinson''s Corp. as his company invested it textiles mainly. This entire meeting was about the very same project that R&E Group of Companies ''messed up''.


    "What?" Blythe glared at his subordinates, causing them to shift their gazes away. He picked up the pen which was resting next to the file and began to scan the signed documents. ''This woman! I swear I would have taught her a lesson if it wasn''t about Wilson.'' He thought to himself as he signed the papers where he was required to.


    --------


    "You didn''t do bad on your first day." Stella spoke up as she gave David a polite smile.


    They were waiting for their own elevators to arrive on the top floor. Almost everyone had left for their home except for these two. She did ask him to leave after the office hours were over but he refused to do so, saying that he wouldn''t leave before her. All she did was shrug in response to his remark. But she had to accept that there was something about his presence that made her feel relaxed.


    "Thank you, Boss." He replied to her praise with a blank expression on his face which earned him a pout from her in response.


    ''Couldn''t he smile while saying that?'' She furrowed her delicate brows. A ping sound from her elevator made her shift her attention to the sliding doors. She was about to step inside but stopped in her tracks when she heard her phone ring.


    She took her phone out and connected the call after seeing the identity of the caller, it was Bella. She quietly listened to her non-stop rambling about some file before she came to the main point.


    "What!" She exclaimed in announcements as the frown on her face deepened.


    ********


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 Chapter 220 - All Of Me

    She took her phone out and connected the call after seeing the identity of the caller, it was Bella. She quietly listened to her non-stop rambling about some file before she came to the main point.


    "What!" She exclaimed in annoyance as the frown on her face deepened.


    "Hold on." She spoke into the phone''s speaker before turning her attention towards the man who was standing a couple of feet away from her, waiting patiently for the elevator which was used by the staff members.


    "You!" She pointed the index finger of her free hand towards him and yelled at the top of her lungs, startling the poor man. "You are coming with me." Before he could understand what was going on, he found himself being dragged by her into her personal elevator.


    "Give me an hour." She spoke into the phone again before disconnecting the call.


    David looked at the woman who looked no less than a crazy person to him with a complicated expression. He shifted his eyes from her face to the hand with which she was grabbing the lapels of his coat. "Boss, can you please let go of my coat?" He managed to speak as he tried his best to suppress the smile which was threatening to bloom over his blank face.


    "What do you mean?" Stella turned her head around and pursed her lips when her eyes landed on her fist which was tightly holding on his coat''s lapels. She felt ashamed for acting like this before her employee, and that too on the first day of his job. She slowly let go of his coat while trying to avoid his heated gaze.


    "Ah..I-I¡­ am sorry." She managed to apologise to him for behaving like a child throwing a tantrum. But she couldn''t be blamed for it. She needed his help in delivering an important document and it was back at her place.


    "It''s alright. But may I ask what happened, Boss?" He spoke up as he fixed his coat.


    "Well, I actually need your help with..." Before she could tell him for what she needed his help with, her words got stuck inside her mouth, refusing to leave the back of her throat when he ears registered the weird noises that the elevator was making.


    "F**k!" She cursed under her breath. "Not again." Just as she was done with the cursing, the elevator dropped down a couple of floors before it came to a halt after making a loud screeching sound.


    "Are you okay?" David asked with concern when the emergency lights of the elevator were turned on, his eyes fixed on the ceiling. He frowned when he found her curled up in a corner, hugging her knees to her chest.


    "Boss?" He called out softly, only to hear faint sobs in response.


    Shaking his head slightly, he walked up to her and settled down on the floor next to her. "Scared of being trapped in an elevator." His words were more like a statement rather than a question, but Stella still nodded her head which was resting on top of her folded knees.


    "I am sure it won''t take them long to fix it." He still tried his best to comfort her, even though he knew it wouldn''t help her. But it was better than staying quiet.


    "They added these emergency lights after the last time I got trapped inside the other one." She managed to speak in between her faint sobs. "But it doesn''t help much."


    "I can tell that." He murmured to himself as he gazed at her shrunken silhouette. "What the actual f**k!" He cursed loudly as the pale emergency lights of the elevatore were cut off, making the small space to be shrouded in darkness. He could barely make out the silhouette of the woman sitting next to him as his eyes adjusted to the dark.


    Her sobs grew louder as her breaths were becoming shallow with each passing second. "Hey, hey, hey!" He began to panic as he didn''t know how to help her with it without letting his emotions get the better of him. Heaving a sigh, he gave up on talking to her as he knew too well that it won''t help her out. "I''m sorry." He muttered softly before scooping her in his arms. He made her small figure rest on his lap and wrapped his arms around her around, hugging her close to himself.


    "Shhh!! It''s alright, I''m here." He muttered softly as he rocked her back and forth like a baby.


    Letting go of her knees, Stella wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face in the crook of his neck.


    "Keep your eyes closed and just listen to my voice." He guided her as continued to rock her. "Do you want me to tell you a story? Or I can sing you a song. But I must warn you that I am a really bad singer." He chuckled lightly as he tried to lighten up the atmosphere for her.


    When he didn''t hear a response from up, he braced himself for the humiliation and tried to give it a go anyways. Clearing his throat, he began to sing one of his favorite song ''All of You'' by ''John Legend''.


    ''What would I do without your smart mouth


    Drawing me in, and you kicking me out


    Got my head spinning, no kidding, I can''t pin you down


    What''s going on in that beautiful mind


    I''m on your magical mystery ride


    And I''m so dizzy, don''t know what hit me, but I''ll be alright


    My head''s under water


    But I''m breathing fine


    You''re crazy and I''m out of my mind


    ''Cause all of me


    Loves all of you


    Love your curves and all your edges


    All your perfect imperfections


    Give your all to me


    I''ll give my all to you


    You''re my end and my beginning


    Even when I lose I''m winning


    ''Cause I give you all, all of me


    And you give me all, all of you


    How many times do I have to tell you


    Even when you''re crying you''re beautiful too


    The world is beating you down, I''m around through every mood


    You''re my downfall, you''re my muse


    My worst distraction, my rhythm and blues


    I can''t stop singing, it''s ringing, in my head for you''


    Before he could sing any further, a couple of flashlights blinded his eyes. Thinking that it might be the technicians, he tried to move Stella down his lap, but failed to do so as her figure was clinging to him tightly.


    "Boss, are you okay?" It was Edward who was popping his head inside the elevator through the small space between the doors that he had managed to open forcefully while the technicians worked on the control panel to fix it.


    David looked at the woman who was in his arms and answered. "She''s fine."


    "Who are you?" Edward questioned him after he heard the unfamiliar manly voice. He knew almost everyone who worked with his Boss, especially the men who worked with her. Who was this guy? Was he from the enemy side?


    "David, David Morrison. I am her new personal assistant." He plainly answered, though he wanted to kill the man. But he controlled his temper which was building up as he looked at the woman in his arms. Though she had stopped sobbing, but he could feel his shirt becoming wetter as time passed by.


    "Keep your eyes closed and think of someone who makes you feel relaxed in any sort of situation." He muttered softly next to her ear.


    "Adam?" A low whimper escaped her lips uncontrollably.


    His heart began to ache when he heard the pain and longing with which her voice was laced. "Shhh! I am here." He patted the back of her head lightly.


    --------


    Ten minutes later, two figures were standing at the entrance as they waited for Edward to bring out the car.


    "I am sorry for troubling you." Stella muttered softly, her voice barely audible. She was not only apologizing to him for troubling him at this hour but also about the elevator.


    "It''s alright, Boss. After all, it''s my job as your personal assistant to look after you." David replied politely to her as he avoided to look directly into her eyes which were fixed on her.


    Stella hummed lightly before shifting her gaze away from his figure. "I need you to deliver a document to a place, and it is important that you do it within an hour. Actually it''s fifteen minutes less than that." She corrected herself as she realized that they have wasted fifteen minutes inside the elevator.


    ********


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 Chapter 221 - You Are So Insensible

    Stella hummed lightly before shifting her gaze away from his figure. "I need you to deliver a document to a place, and it is important that you do it within an hour. Actually it''s fifteen minutes less than that." She corrected herself as she realized that they have wasted fifteen minutes inside the elevator.


    "But don''t you like¡­ live in one of those secluded areas, away from the main city. Reaching there will take around an hour or so because of the traffic." David furrowed his brows as he questioned her.


    "No, it won''t take us that long." Stella replied to him, keeping her words minimum.


    David just shrugged at her words and decided to stay quiet but his mind was working in overdrive mode. ''How could they arrive there in time? Especially during the rush hours.''


    "Come-on, you can sit in the front." Stella ordered him politely as soon as her car pulled up before the entrance. She began to walk towards it without waiting for him and got inside.


    ---------


    Twenty minutes later, the car pulled up in a high-end residential area.


    "Follow me." Stella commanded David who was busy looking at the surroundings with confusion written on his, as she stepped out of the car. The man could only nod his head and follow his Boss as he was given no other choice.


    Stella walked through the entrance and greeted the woman who was at the reception before walking to the elevator. She tapped her right foot on the floor as she was becoming impatient as they waited for the elevator to arrive on the ground floor. She could feel a pair of eyes staring intently at the back of her head without a break, which added more to her anxiousness.


    She signed internally when the ding sound of the elevator entered her ears.


    "So, you live in an apartment. I never got to hear about it in the news." David added after the elevator doors closed and it began to climb up. "I thought you''d still be living in that castle which your deceased husband left you."


    Stella scoffed and gave him a lop-sided grin. "Don''t believe everything you hear from those liars. And my husband isn''t dead, so don''t use that word and his name in the same sentence." She added the latter part with a glare.


    "And I live in a penthouse, not an apartment." She spoke up when the elevator came to a stop on the top most floor. A small touch screen slid out from the space below the panel which had buttons of all the floors. Stella typed in a bunch of digits which was actually the password to her penthouse entrance, without which the elevator doors wouldn''t open. She didn''t bother to hide the password from the man who was standing next to her.


    A few seconds later the blue light at the corner of the touch screen turned to green, indicating that the password was correct. A ding sound was heard before the elevator doors opened into a foyer.


    "Come on in. Make yourself at home." She spoke up as she began to walk across the foyer.


    David looked at her back and frowned as a couple of thoughts began to run through his mind. ''How could she invite a random person, a man at that, inside her penthouse when she''s all on her own.''


    "I''m fine." He gave her a questioning look. "And can you please hurry up and get those documents quickly, I need to go back home after delivering them." He added as he followed her inside.


    The foyer led into the living room which was connected to an open Italian style kitchen where a couple of stool style chairs were placed next to the kitchen counter. The whole apartment had a sober look to it with all the shades of cream and off-white which were used in contrast with a bunch of pastel colors.


    "I quite like the place. Your interior designer has definitely done a good job with the colors." He made a praising remark as his eyes drifted around.


    "Thanks. I will convey your remarks to her the next time we meet." Stella gave him a faint smile as she began to head towards her the stairs which led to her master bedroom. "Make yourself at home, I will be back in a couple of minutes. There''s some water in the refrigerator and some left over food also, if you''d like to have bite." She reminded him again to make himself at ease until she returned.


    David kept his eyes on her as she climbed the stairs, until she was no longer in his line of sight. He shrugged his shoulders and headed towards the kitchen to take a stroll around as he was actually hungry. He was thinking about going back to his single room apartment and cook himself something after getting done with the office work. But this woman dragged him here without even asking for his consent.


    He allowed his eyes to roam around the kitchen as he looked for the refrigerator which she mentioned. His eyebrows furrowed when he didn''t find one in the kitchen. "Where the hell is the refrigerator?" He muttered under his breath as he felt his last hope of shoving something inside his stomach, fading away right before his eyes.


    His eyes lingered around the kitchen one more time and he was finally able to locate the refrigerator which was camouflaged with the rest of the wall. ''Who makes their refrigerator camouflage with the wall and then offers their guest to look for food inside it?'' He thought inwardly as he made his way to it around the counter.


    Two minutes later, he was sitting on one of the stools next to the counter, enjoying a slice of some leftover pizza he found in the kitchen. He had reheated a slice of it in the microwave thinking that she wouldn''t it either. And a slice was enough to keep him alive till he gets back to his apartment.


    He was only half way done with his food when a crashing sound resonated through the place, followed by a low shriek of a woman.


    Leaving his food on the counter, he rushed upstairs right away. The staircase led him directly to the master bedroom. Without bothering himself with the knocking, he entered the room directly when he found that it wasn''t locked from the inside.


    As soon as he went in, he saw some glass shards scattered all over the floor. He eyes roamed around the room haphazardly as he looked for the person who had made this mess. He heaved out a long sigh of relief when he saw her sitting on the foot end of the bed. The relief on his face was soon replaced by a frown as his eyes landed on her right foot.


    She was holding it in between her hands as the entire slow was covered in blood. Her eyes were clenched tightly as she bit down on her lower lip to suppress her cries.


    "Are you blind?" David clenched his jaw as he tried to control the rage which was building up inside him. ''Just how could someone step on a piece of glass in such a brightly lit room.'' He shook his head in helplessness and walked up to her. He went down on his knees and grabbed her food with one of hands as he angled it with the other so that he could clearly examine it.


    Just as he had predicted, he saw a glass shard stuck inside the wound. "You okay?" He questioned her only to earn a glare in response.


    "Do I look like okay?" Stella spat her words out, glaring at him with her teary eyes.


    "I was just being polite." He replied back with a smile, making her more angry.


    As Stella was about to pass him another sarcastic remark, a sharp pain shot up in her foot.


    "Oh! I forgot to mention that this might hurt." David gave her blank as he threw away the bloodied shard where the rest of the broken pieces were lying on the carpeted floor.


    "Are you crazy?" Stella smacked him on his shoulder as she couldn''t control the pain any longer.


    "What did you expect when you stepped on glass shard? That it might feel like walking on a beach?" He narrowed his eyes at her. "Or was it the garden you had in your mind?" He gave her a smirk.


    "You¡­ you are so insensible." Stella could only sulk as she didn''t have any reply to his sarcastic remarks.


    "Thank you so much, Ma''am. Now, if you don''t mind telling me, where can I find a first aid kit in here?" Instead of being angry, he asked her with a faint smile.


    ********


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 Chapter 222 - Penthouse

    "You¡­ you are so insensible." Stella could only sulk as she didn''t have any reply to his sarcastic remarks.


    "Thank you so much, Ma''am. Now, if you don''t mind telling me, where can I find a first aid kit in here?" Instead of being angry, he asked her with a faint smile.


    It was then she realized that he was still holding her foot while pressing on the wound to stop it from bleeding out too much. ''I did the right thing by choosing him as my assistant.'' She thought to herself, giving him an annoyed look.


    Stella rolled her eyes at his lack of response, but still pointed next to the headboard of the bed. "Do you see that flower?" She asked him while pointing towards a painted black rose. After getting a confirmatory nod from him, she continued. "Press that portion with a little bit of force and a section will open. It''s somewhere in there." She explained it to him while he continued to gaze at her with a complicated expression.


    "No wonder you shifted from that old castle to this penthouse. I would have done the same thing." He added as he took her hand and pressed it against the wound. "Don''t move it until I say so." He asked as nicely he could at the moment before heading towards the direction she had pointed earlier.


    A minute later, he returned with a first aid kit to his previous position and went down on his knees again. It was then Stella realized that he had been sitting on the floor all this while. She was never raised to treat her guests this way. Even though he was her employee, but at the moment he was more of a guest at her place.


    "I am so sorry that I didn''t notice it earlier. Why are you sitting on the floor? You can drag that chair to over here." She apologized to him right away after realizing her mistake. But it wasn''t her fault that she forgot her manners after seeing her foot bleeding out.


    "I am fine." David declined her offer and settled down on the floor, this time crossing his legs. He propped up his left knee and placed her foot on it so that he could have a better view of her wound.


    "You can let go of it." He instructed her. Before he could place his own hand over the wound, the sudden decline in pressure made it bleed again.


    Stella began to panic as she saw a dark patch on his dress pants which was, without a doubt, her blood. "I am so, so sorry." She apologized to him and pulled her foot away, not wanting to dirty his clothes anymore. But even after using much force, she could barely move her foot away from his knee as he was holding it firmly in its place.


    "Stop moving, will you? I am trying to have a better look at it." David frowned when felt her foot move within his grip. "The gash is not that big, but it''s a bit deep which explains why it is bleeding so much." He stated after he was done examining her wound. He shifted his gaze to the first aid kit and removed the lid of the transparent acrylic box.


    He took out a small bottle of an antiseptic and some clean cotton. He pressed the cotton against her wound as to absorb excess blood. After he was done wiping the wound, he took some more clean cotton after putting down the one he had just used.


    "This might hurt a bit." He murmured softly, but loud enough for her to hear after he had dipped the cotton in the antiseptic liquid.


    Stella hissed through her teeth as he pressed the dipped cotton against the wound. She bit down on her lower lip, trying her best not to cry in pain as he began to clean the wound. She was trying her best to act strong before his assistant but her teary eyes betrayed her and didn''t let her do so.


    A lone tear travelled down her cheeks and dropped on the back of his hand with which he was holding her foot in place, making him to look up.


    "I didn''t know that my new Boss cannot stand such a little amount of pain." He gave her a smirk as he tried to divert her mind from the pain. He himself how much cleaning a simple gash with some mere antiseptic hurt.


    "What little, you moron?" Just like he had predicted, Stella lost her calm and yelled at him. "Can you be a bit gentle? Or will it hurt you?" She continued to scold him. "Of course, it will. What better way to take revenge on your Boss than put her through some pain, right? Is this your way of making me pay for asking you to join right away? Or I made you stay back at the company way after office hours. Wait! I didn''t do that. You stayed back on your own. I even asked you to leave, that too a couple of times." She pursed her lips in a pout.


    "I know why you are doing this. I dragged you here at this hour for some mere document when you were about to return to the comforts of your home." She continued her ranting, forgetting about the burning sensation.


    "All done." He spoke up, making her to shut her blabbering mouth.


    Stella shifted her eyes from the top of his head to her own foot which was now covered in a white bandage. She furrowed her delicate brows. ''When did he do all of this?''


    "I have applied an ointment before covering it with some plain cotton so that it won''t get on the bandage. All you need to do is keep changing the dressing daily and keep your wound dry until it is fully healed. Since it''s a bit deep, it may take some time." He spoke up, bringing her out of her own thoughts.


    "Umm¡­ ahh¡­ thanks." She meekly added while scratching the back of her head. She didn''t know what else to do besides thanking him. It was then that it struck her like a lighting bolt. She had ruined his pants. ''You better fix that up.'' He subconscious reminded her. She could imagine it standing right before her with a ruler in her hand, glaring some knives at her.


    "And, I apologise for ruining your dress. Please let me fix that. I may have something you could change into." She offered him politely only to be turned down by him, again.


    "I don''t mind it. You can just give me the document you needed me to deliver and the address to which I need to deliver it." He stood up from the floor after carefully placing her foot on the bed.


    "Do you have some cleaning staff?" His sudden question startled her.


    "Ah¡­ not now. They come in the morning when I leave for the office, so that would be tomorrow." She replied to him after coming back to her senses. She saw him frown for God knows what reason as his eyes lingered over the scattered shards of glass.


    "Hey, careful." She yelled at him when she saw him walk up to the carpeted area on which the shards rested.


    "I am right here, why are you yelling? I can clearly hear you?" She saw him giving her an annoyed look.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t do the sweeping for you. I am just going to roll the carpet as all of the shards are on it. But I will still check the floor for you, your highness." He added the last part with a smirk, stressing on the words ''your highness''.


    Stella just shrugged in response and continued to sit on the bed as she watched him work. He rolled the carpet carefully and settled it next to the wall so that she wouldn''t end up tripping over it.


    When he was done cleaning out the mess she had made, she finally told him about the document. "There''s an envelope on the dressing table. Don''t you dare open it. Just deliver it to the address which is mentioned on top of it."


    "Okay." He replied to her with a blank expression.


    Just as he was leaving the room after picking up the brown envelope, Stella stopped him. "I will see you out." She spoke up as she tried to move her foot and get down from the bed. She was just trying to act a bit nice towards him since he had helped her out so much. But who knew that the man would end up scolding her in return for her kind gesture.


    ********


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    £¬

 Chapter 223 - All In The Span Of One Day

    Just as he was leaving the room after picking up the brown envelope, Stella stopped him. "I will see you out." She spoke up as she tried to move her foot and get down from the bed. She was just trying to act a bit nice towards him since he had helped her out so much. But who knew that the man would end up scolding her in return for her kind gesture.


    "What are trying to do now? Break your leg? I could help you with that if you want it to happen that much?"


    "What''s wrong with you? I was just trying to be nice to you." Stella pursed her lips in a pout.


    "I don''t need your help, Ma''am. I can walk myself out. You just continue to sit on your throne." He added, his voice dripping with sarcasm as he pointed towards her bed.


    "But¡­" Stella tried to make him understand her point only to be interrupted by the man.


    "I went from being you personal assistant to your delivery boy, all in the span of one day. Did I forget to mention about being your personal nurse? Oh, wait! I was your maid as well in between. So, you must be tired after all of this helping out, isn''t that right?" He narrowed his eyes at her.


    His words only made her feel more guilty. She wanted to apologise to him but decided to keep her mouth shut as she didn''t want to be scolded any further by him.


    "You can leave." She spoke up while pointing towards the door of her room, not bothering to look him in the eye. She knew that he wasn''t wrong. She knew that his every single word was true. She had indeed turned the poor guy in her own servant.


    "Thank you, your highness." He heaved out a tired sigh and headed out of her room, not forgetting to close the door on his way out.


    "What took you so long?" Edward questioned him as soon as he walked up to the car only earn a scowl from him.


    "Look man, I have seriously had enough for today. Can you please drive me to this address so that I can drop it off and be on my way back to my little home sweet home, as soon as possible." David spoke up as he waved the envelope before his face, not bothering to answer his question.


    "Get inside." Edward instructed him to get in the car after giving him a scrutinizing gaze.


    ----------


    Stella, who was left all alone with her thoughts, was having a hard time in processing them. Her mind kept drifting to what had happened earlier in the elevator. Her subconscious kept reminding her of the pair of strong arms which had embraced her.


    She tossed and turned in her bed as she couldn''t comprehend why it all felt so familiar to her. The way he had rocked her shivering body gently, why did his actions reminded her of someone else. Why did the warmth of his embrace gave her frightened soul the same solace as Adam''s presence used to give.


    She closed her eyes and let her thoughts take her back to the moment when she had actually felt that it was Adam with her inside the darkened space. ''Why would he console her like that? Why would he let her hug him?''


    There were so many whys and what ifs, that by merely thinking about them, she felt her head began to ache. Her brushed all those thoughts out of her mind as his arms rest on her lower abdomen. "What do you guys think?" She asked her babies, thinking that they might be able to guide her down the right track.


    "Your father''s absence has begun to affect me this much now that the first man who''s good to me, seems like him in my eyes." She chuckled at her own helplessness as her eyes drifted off to her bandaged foot. "May be he''s just a good man who was just being nice to me since I am his boss." She nodded her head, agreeing with her myself.


    "But what about all those familiarity I felt?" She questioned herself again.


    "It was dark and you were having a panic attack, girl. You weren''t even in your right mind then. It must be you over thinking or hallucinating things." She scolded her own self before deciding that she should sleep. It was a good thing that she ate before leaving the office because she was in no condition to quickly whip something up for herself.


    She stretched her hand and pushed a button on the side of the headboard which automatically dimmed the lights of the room. "Good night, my little angels." She rubbed her stomach lightly as a fond smile rested on her lips. Their existence was the only thing which was making her go all this while. There was no way she could have survived the past month without his presence. It was her babies which gave her hope that he would definitely come back.


    Without troubling herself to change into comfortable clothes, she tucked herself in and drifted off to sleep.


    --------


    Next day, David arrived at the office, seething in anger. He was about to go tky the CEO''s office and scold her once again for ruining his night last night. When she asked him to deliver a document, he thought that it might be something important related to the company. Who could have guessed that she used him as her own delivery boy as all that envelope had inside of it was a letter. The poor guy came to know about it after he delivered it to Liam.


    He came to a halt before the large dark wood door and was about to knock, but retracted his hand back inside his pocket. As he came to think of it, she wouldn''t have come to the company with that foot of hers. He was about to turn away and head to his own office, but the door before him opened from the inside and Bella walked out.


    "Oh! Good morning, Mr. Morrison." Bella greeted her politely.


    "Good morning. And please, just call me David." He gave her a polite smile.


    Bella nodded her head in agreement. "By the way, you are right on time. Boss was asking for you." She continued when she remembered the reason Stella had called her in office.


    "She came to the office." He frowned after listening to her and went inside the room after knocking once, without waiting for her confirmation.


    Bella looked at the closed door in confusion. ''He is weird.'' She thought to herself before walking away to her desk.


    Inside the office room, Stella was nowhere to be seen. "Boss? You called for me." He spoke called out to her loudly.


    "Yes, hold on." He heard his reply.


    "She must be inside." He murmured to himself as he continued to stand before her desk.


    "Good that you are here. We need to leave for a meeting in half an hour and I want you to make sure that there are no errors in this proposal." She walked out of the room to her desk and passed him a file.


    David just hummed in response as he shifted his line of sight to her foot. "What are you wearing boots? That too with heels." He frowned after shifting his gaze to her, looking straight into her eyes.


    "I can''t let others know that I am stupid, can I?" She added giving him an eye roll. "Moreover, I hate it when people pity me or sympathize with me." She just shrugged in response.


    "Alright, just be careful with it. Don''t put all of your weight in you right foot, or else the wound will open again." He could just shook his head at the woman who was standing before him. "Can you please tell me what was so important with the document you asked me to deliver last night?" His mind reminded him of the real reason why he wanted to have a chat with her right after coming to the office.


    "It was more like a letter that I had to deliver to Uncle Liam. He isn''t on speaking terms with his daughter, so she sends me the letters that she wants to send him and I deliver it to him on the very same day ok which I get them." Stella smiled like a teenager who was doing something good for others. She didn''t bother to hide the truth from anymore as the letter had already found its way to the recipient.


    "Then what was with that time limit?" David looked at her as if he was looking at a fool.


    "I usually get the letter early in the morning and I get it delivered to Liam before 9 o''clock at night. It''s kinda like a time limit I have set for myself." Stella replied to him as she found her way around the table and settled down on her swiveling chair.


    ********


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 Chapter 224 - Manage The Company Or Them

    "Then what was with that time limit?" David looked at her as if he was looking at a fool.


    "I usually get the letter early in the morning and I get it delivered to Liam before 9 o''clock at night. It''s kinda like a time limit I have set for myself." Stella replied to him as she found her way around the table and settled down on her swiveling chair.


    "What have I gotten myself into?" David murmured under his breath.


    "What?" Stella looked at him quizzically as his volume was too low for her to hear.


    "Nothing. I will be on my way then." He replied to her, passing her a forced smile as he waved the file in the air.


    Stella just shrugged it off as her eyes landed on his retreating figure. ''He sure is weird.'' She thought to herself before shifting her attention to the pile of files which was resting right before her eyes.


    -------


    "I thought we were supposed to go to a meeting." David gave her a confused look as he gazed around himself.


    The duo was currently in a mall which was owned by Liam. They had just crossed the walk through gates when David began to interrogate her.


    "We are here for the meeting." Stella shook her head in helplessness. ''What the hell was I thinking when I chose him for the post of my personal assistant?'' She was beginning to question her own decision. There was no doubt that he was damn good at doing his job. It was his personality which she found annoying. Why did he have to go around and poke his nose in her matters every single time.


    "You didn''t tell me that." David frowned looking at her annoyed expression. "And we are half an hour way according to the scheduled time."


    "I''m not bound to inform you everything, David." Stella smack her forehead as she felt a headache building up. "And yes I know that we are early. I need to get a haircut before the meeting."


    "Wait, what!" He looked at her as if she had grown some devil horns. "You have such beautiful hair, why do you need to cut them?" He motioned towards her ponytail which reached up to her waist and was swinging in the air with her every moment.


    "It''s hard to manage them. I can either manage the company or them. And for now, I have to focus on the company. I would prefer to spend my time on reading a proposal rather than untangling the locks of my hair." Stella just shrugged in response.


    "Oh! Here we are." She pointed towards the entrance of the salon she usually got her work done from. It was a high end salon and one would need to have a membership card just to make it through the entrance. Luckily, not only did she have a membership card but she was among those few people who were their royalty card holders.


    She had already called the owner of the salon to make sure that he would be here today and not at some other branch. Even if he had some other appointments at their other branch, he would have gladly cancelled them for her.


    "You can do whatever you want to until I get free. But I want you to be here the very moment I walk out of the salon. Do you understand?" She raised her right eyebrow at him.


    "Yeah." David could only agree with the woman as she was indeed his Boss and he was bound to listen to her unless he didn''t want the job. He began to make a mental list of all the stores he could visit in the allotted time. He just wanted to buy some new clothes for himself. It wouldn''t take him much long anyways. But he still set a countdown timer on his smartwatch as he stared at her disappearing figure. Knowing her, she would even if he was a minute late. He wouldn''t like it, would he?


    ----------


    In a small town, a woman sat on a wooden bench under a lamp post as she waited for the bus. She was wearing a long cream colored coat over a simple black button down shirt which blue acid washed jeans. Her straight blonde hair was tied up in a bun with a few loose strands escaping from the grip of her scrunchie which were framing her bare face. The only thing she had used on her face was a nude color lip gloss to keep her lips from cracking up under the assault of the cold wind.


    She rubbed her hands together to produce some warmth. She was regretting that she hadn''t brought her gloves with herself to work. She glanced at her wrist watch and sighed when she looked at the time. It was way past nine p.m and the bus hadn''t arrived yet. She was just hoping that it would eventually arrive or else she would have to walk to her lodge in this freezing cold weather.


    "Excuse me, Ma''am?" She felt a light tap on her shoulder which was followed by a question. "Are you waiting for the bus as well?"


    Her eyes trailed up to the owner of the voice. She could barely see his face clearly under the faint yellow light which the lamp post was emitting. "Yes, it''s a bit late than usual." She replied before diverting her eyes back on the road which was covered with a thin layer of snow.


    "Phew! I thought I missed it. Goodness gracious that I made it in time, or else I might have to walk back to my cabin." The man heaved out a long sigh as relief washed over her that he had barely managed to avoid the trouble of walking all the way back to his cabin.


    "Can I sit here? I mean if it''s okay with you." He asked the lady as he pointed towards the empty space on the bench.


    "Sure." She replied to him plainly as she looked at the empty space next to her which could easily fit three people.


    "By the way, I am Joe, Joe Smith." He extended his hand towards the woman.


    "Hi! Joe, Joe Smith." She replied showing the least amount of interest in him.


    "Hello Rachel." He smiled at her.


    Rachel finally looked at the man who was sitting next to her, eyes popping out of their sockets. She was about to yell at the top of her lungs, but the man raised his hands up in the air.


    "I am not some creepy stalker, relax. You forgot to take your work badge off." He pointed towards the front of her coat while keeping the other one still suspended in the air. "If you don''t want others to know your name, I suggest that you take it off before leaving from work." He put his hands down, placing them on his lap.


    "I don''t work, it was some volunteer thingy." Rachel replied to him while taking the badge off her coat.


    "Trying to do something good." The man smiled at her to which she just shook her head.


    "Trying to find some peace." Rachel gave him a sad smile in return.


    "You don''t like that you are from here." Joe spoke up as he tried to make small talk with her.


    "What gave away? My blonde hair or my fluent English?" She gave him a lopsided grin.


    "I guess both." Joe replied looking at her. "But why would someone like you come to this remote town. One look at you and anyone can tell that you are from some rich family." He continued as he pointed at the way she was sitting up with a straight backbone. "If it''s peace, why come here of all the places in the world."


    "Well, my father sent me to the capital city to finish off my degree as a punishment. I am currently on vacation as I already gave the exams of four semesters all together. I will go back after spending some time alone and give the remaining exams, get the degree early and find myself a stable job." Rachel replied to him as he continued to stare at her, probably not believing his ears.


    Looking at the baffled expression of the man, she decided to continue. "I used to be a bright student before I messed up my life and did some things I am not proud of. So here I am, trying to straighten the shit out of my life." She shrugged her shoulders as if it was something normal.


    "Oh! I forgot to mention that my father is still not talking to me. I have been sending him letters, but I never get a reply." She added the latter with a sad smile.


    "Enough about me. Tell me about yourself. I have been in this town for almost half a month now, never saw you for even once. What''s your story? What brought you here?" She questioned the man who was still staring at her with a weird expression on his face. Since there was no sign of the bus, it was a better option to chat rather than sitting quietly. Moreover, he was the first person she had actually told the truth to.


    ********


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 Chapter 225 - If Only Adam Was Here With Me

    David was standing right outside the entrance of the salon Stella had walked in around half an hour earlier. Three shopping bags were dangling in his right hand as he held onto their handles while his other hand was tucked inside his pocket as he waited for the woman to come out.


    It was a little over half an hour already and there was still no sign of Stella. He was about to give her a call but pushed down the idea when he remembered that he didn''t have her phone number. ''This woman is seriously something.'' He thought inwardly while tapping his foot on the floor as he was beginning to get impatient.


    "There you are." He heard her voice before his eyes landed on her figure.


    He saw her walking out of the salon and felt his breathing stopped when his gaze shifted to her hair. The once long and silky locks which reached up to her waist were now bouncing above her shoulders as she walked towards him.


    "Why?" He glared at her.


    "What why?" Stella gave him a confused look when she saw the displeased look which was marring his face.


    "Why would you do that?" She saw him shaking his head.


    "Do what?" She couldn''t hold back and raised her voice a couple of notches before lowering it down again as the realization of being in public dawned on her. "Can you stop with that? Just be straight with your questions." She whisper-yelled at him.


    "I meant your hair." He added, pointing towards her hair. "Why would you cut them so short? They were so good earlier." He pursed his thin lips as he reminiscenced about the long locks of her hair.


    "Hey! They are still good. I like them more this way." Stella narrowed her eyes at him and ran her fingers through her hair. She had herself asked the hairstylist to cut them this short and she was happy with her final look.


    She had opted for a lob haircut and asked the hairstylist to keep the front locks a bit longer which gave her hair a pointed look after the side partition. After the haircut, he had given her a blow dry to keep them in style until she gets done with her day. Moreover, the haircut made her look younger than her usual self. She could be easily mistaken for a teenager now that her hair looked like this.


    "And who the hell cares that you like them this way or not?" Stella pursed her lips in an adorable pout and furrowed her delicate brows. "Who even asked for your opinion in the first place? And stop wasting more of my time, we are already ten minutes late for the meeting." She humphed and walked past him, forcing him to follow her in silence.


    ''And who''s the one behind our running late for the meeting.'' He wanted to say it out loud to her face but decided against it. She would just start scolding him again while using the ''who''s the boss'' card.


    They walked to the elevator with Stella walking two steps ahead of him. He continued to quietly follow her as he took care of his shopping bags, not bothering to even look up. His eyes were cast down on the floor, more specifically on the back of her block heeled boots.


    His thoughts drifted back to last night when he was taking care of her injury. ''Aren''t the boots hurting her? She should have gone for something more comfortable for her feet if she didn''t want to have an off.'' He frowned at her selection of foot wear. If only he could make her wear something else.


    He followed her inside the glass elevator and stood right next to her. But before the doors could close a group of six girls rushed inside, preventing the door from closing. They were followed by four boys, making the whole space crowded. The duo were pushed all the way back and their backs were now leaving against the glass wall.


    Stella took in a deep breath as she tried to divert her mind to somewhere else. She could feel a pair of eyes staring at her as soon as the doors closed. One of the boys who had entered earlier was continuously ogling at her. She hated such men, she hated the fact that they would go around staring at women with their pathetic gazes.


    ''If only Adam was here with me.'' A thought popped into her mind as a sad smile embraced her lips. He would have used his own tall figure to block her small one from prying eyes. Before she could further think about the past and miss him more, she felt a shadow loom over her figure.


    She glanced at the tall man who was towering over her. His left hand was resting on the glass wall right next to her head, supporting the weight of his body.


    "You okay?" He questioned her as a frown marred his broad forehead.


    Stella could only nod her head in a yes as she gazed up at his tall figure. She saw him clench his jaw as his body moved closer to her, his elbow bending in the process. Her eyes then drifted back to the group of boys who were laughing as they gave thumbs up to the one who was staring at her earlier.


    "Close your eyes and ears." David instructed her to which she complied.


    Looking at her eyes which were tightly shunt and her ears against which she was pressing her palms, a devilish smirk graced his face. He turned his attention to the group of annoying kids which were treading on thin ice. It was better to show them their place and stop them before he made him lose him calm.


    "Just a little advice for you youngsters. Don''t go around messing with people you can''t afford to. And she is one of them. Just because a person is nice, doesn''t mean you get to bully them. And most importantly, keep your eyes off her or I will gouge them out." He glared at them before turning his attention back to the woman who was still keeping her eyes and ears shut like an obedient child. His lips curled up in a wide smile as he looked at her face.


    Even though he would have preferred those long locks over her new hairstyle, he had to accept that she looked more adorable like this. ''Damn!'' He bent down his head and leaned his face close to her face. He lightly tapped her nose with his hand before resting it again on the glass wall behind her.


    Sensing the light pressure on her nose, she finally moved her hands away from her ears and opened her eyes. She bit down on her lower lip when her eyes landed on his face. She furrowed her brows at their closeness. She wanted to push him away but couldn''t even move a finger. It was as if her entire body was frozen at the spot under his tender gaze.


    "Are you okay?" He asked her softly as he looked at her troubled expressions. Even though he knew that he was the reason behind it, he still asked her. He loved to see her all flustered up and acting so shy and meek, totally opposite of what she usually portrayed herself as before her employees back at the company.


    Stella could only nod her head as she tried to avoid looking directly into his eyes. She couldn''t understand why this closeness was bothering her so much. There was still a decent amount of distance between them. Maybe it was due to how he had acted and handled the situation. She knew Adam would have done the exact same thing for. What was with her missing him so much these days?


    "Are you sure?" She heard him ask again as his minty breath wafted up her nose. "Why does your face look so red?" She looked up at his face only to see him staring back at her with concern.


    "Yeah!" She could only mustered up the courage to say a single world as she bobbed her head up and down.


    "You sure?" He questioned her again. He was trying his best to suppress the smile which was threatening to bloom on his face. He saw her face scrunching up clearly showing her annoyance by his repetitive inquiring.


    "Can you stop asking me the same thing again and again?" She held his gaze and continued. "I already told you that I am okay. Didn''t you get it the first time? Don''t you understand what a nod means?" She questioned him as she went back to being her usual self.


    ********


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 Chapter 226 - Bad Manners

    "Can you stop asking me the same thing again and again?" She held his gaze and continued. "I already told you that I am okay. Didn''t you get it the first time? Don''t you understand what a nod means?" She questioned him as she went back to being her usual self.


    "Well, your face said otherwise. I am just trying to be a good ''personal'' assistant here." He pursed his lips and gave her a pitiful look.


    "Alright, alright! Rest assured, I am completely fine." She managed to speak as she looked down on the floor again. She was feeling guilty after hearing his reply as she could see that he was just being concerned about her. He had even helped her with those boys, and here she was scolding him again.


    "What''s with you always scolding me, huh? Even last night I helped you out with so many things and you ended up yelling at me for God knows what reason." He pursed his lips tighter and even frowned while giving her puppy eyes to look more pitiful.


    "I did apologise¡­." Before Stella could reply to him a loud ping interrupted her. It was then she realized that the elevator had finally reached the top most floor which was only reserved for restaurants and small outlets of eateries.


    Her eyes shifted to his back only to find that the entire leave was almost empty except for a couple of youngsters who had just walked out of the elevator, leaving the two of them alone. ''Where did the rest of those people go? And when did they get off?'' She questioned herself at the absence of her mind.


    Little did she know that the elevator had already made a round to the top and it was the second time that it was arriving at their desired floor. She was way too focused on the man before her, that it made her pay zero attention to her surroundings. Moreover, his tall silhouette was blocking her line of sight.


    "Shall we go?" He questioned her again to which she just rolled her eyes and walked past him.


    She grunted out loudly when she heard a slight chuckle coming from behind her. She scolded herself for taking him as a good person. It''s just his day two at work and he had managed to make her lose her calm so many times already. It wouldn''t be wrong if she used the term devil reincarnated to define him because for her, he was the literal definition of it.


    "Annoying fool". She muttered under her breath when she saw him trying to keep up with her pace which wasn''t so difficult for him because of his long legs. With a couple of long strides, he was right next to her as she walked towards the very same restaurant which she had visited a couple of days ago with Rachel.


    "Rich people and their ways." He murmured softly as he continued to keep up with her. Though his voice was low but Stella clearly heard him. Turning her head towards him, she passed him a deathly glare only to get a bright smile in return.


    "What do you mean by that?" She questioned him while giving him a threatening glare.


    "Exactly what it means." He shrugged his shoulders. He was in no mood to explain his earlier statement, so he just continued to walk next to her while keeping his mouth shut.


    "Who''s the person you are meeting with?" He finally out forward the quesu which was bothering him since he had read the file before leaving for here. It just had a basic draft of the proposal with no actual facts and figures. Even the name of the company was not mentioned. He had a hunch that she deliberately kept it hidden, as for why, he didn''t have a single idea.


    "You will see him in a while." She gave him a lopsided grin and motioned the head manager, who was already waiting for her, to show them the way to the private room she had booked a couple of days ago.


    David continued to follow her inside, but this time a step behind her as they were in a public place and he wouldn''t want any bad news about her to make its way into the headlines. Even though he seemed calmed from outside, internally he was in turmoil as he tries to think of the identity of this ''him'' she had mentioned.


    The head manager finally stopped before a black gate and motioned the waiter who was standing nearby, to open it before guiding the duo inside.


    Stella heaved out a relieved sigh when she saw that the room was empty and the other party wasn''t already waiting for her. She dismissed the head manager after placing an order for herself to which he nodded his head and left.


    "You didn''t ask me." David spoke up as he settled down on the chair next to her after the two of them were left alone.


    "Huh?" Stella gave him a quizzical look as she couldn''t get what he had said. Her thoughts were all over the place and she was lost in her own world.


    "You didn''t ask me." He repeated his words again with patience. There wasn''t the slightest bit of annoyance and irritability in his voice. He rolled his eyes when he saw her still looking at him with a weird expression. "You didn''t ask me what I would like to eat." He explained it to her as he fought the urge to give her a smack on the top of her head.


    "Well, as you can see, our guest is not here yet. And it''s bad manners to order food without the other person. So, you will wait till he comes and places his order." Stella replied to him as she gazed down at the mahogany wood table.


    "Then why did you place your order? Isn''t that bad manners?" He frowned at her weird logic.


    "It is, but who cares. I am famished. Do you have any idea how much energy all that sitting up straight consumes when you are getting a haircut?" She just shrugged her shoulders in response while he continued to stare at her as if she had grown two wings out of nowhere, chicken wings to be precise.


    "When can I resign from the job?" She heard him ask after a few minutes of staying quiet.


    "Why would you resign from the job?" It was Stella''s turn to look at him skeptically. Why would someone who was in their right mind, resign from a job they had just landed on? People would literally kill each other just to have his post. ''He is definitely insane''. She smirked.


    "I just cannot do this." He paused and took in a deep breath as if he was bracing himself for a big revelation. "I can work at one of those salons they have for puppies. But I cannot work under a Boss who not only has a thick skull, but an empty one too." He continued as the frown on his face turned upside down, sending the person next to him in a delirium.


    "Y-you¡­ you¡­" Stella tried to think of a retort but couldn''t do so. She was fuming with rage. If it was possible in real life, then one could have seen steam blowing off from her ears and nose. How dare this man say something so terrible about her?


    ********


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 Chapter 227 - Drink Of Choice

    "Y-you¡­ you¡­" Stella tried to think of a retort but couldn''t do so. She was fuming with rage. If it was possible in real life, then one could have seen steam blowing off from her ears and nose. How dare this man say something so terrible about her?


    "You think you are any smarter than me?" Stella glared at him. "And breaking news, you can''t resign from the job for the next three years, you moron. If only you could have bothered yourself to read the contract you signed, you would have known."


    David twisted his lips to show his distaste after hearing her response. "There''s really no way?" He let out a grunt.


    "There''s one, I can fire you." Stella smiled at him.


    "Oh! Really?" His lips curled up in a smile as he began to ponder over the idea of being fired. "So, will you fire me? Pretty please?" He added, blinking his eyes a couple of times innocently.


    Stella leaned her chin on her propped up arm, tapping it with her index finger as she gave his pleading a thought. "No." She gave him a devilish smile as she voiced out her answer.


    He scrunched his eyebrows and narrowed his eyes, showing her his annoyance. He was about to continue their little argument but bit down on his tongue when he heard a little click coming from the doorway where a man was standing.


    "Mr. Taylor. You finally bothered to bless us with your presence." Stella turned her head and greeted him in her usual sarcastic way. ''If only this man was here on time, I wouldn''t have to deal with this chimpanzee here.''


    "I apologise for the delay, Ms. Stella. But something came up at the company which delayed my departure from there." Taylor walked inside the room and motioned the waiter to close the door.


    "That''s something I can forgive. After all, who knows better than me how difficult it is to run one." Stella added with a blank face, her fun and relaxed self long gone. She knew when she needed to act like the CEO of Levinson''s Corp., and this was the perfect time for showing off that side of her personality.


    "I didn''t know that you were bringing your assistant with you. Or else, I would have brought mine as well." Taylor sat down across the duo and spoke up, his lips were constantly curled up in a smile.


    Stella could feel shivers run down her spine every time she looked at his face. She tried to avoid looking at it directly as much as she could, deciding to focus on the wooden table before her.


    "She doesn''t like to go on her own on meetings." It was David who replied to his remark. He was wearing the same blank look on his face like Stella.


    Looking at the sudden change in his carefree personality, Stella frowned. ''Where did that annoying dude go?''


    Taylor could only smile in return as he nodded his head in understanding. "But it''s better for you if you don''t butt in your head when your seniors talk. I don''t think that Ms. Stella would appreciate such behavior either." He didn''t forget to show David his place that he was a mere assistant who shouldn''t bother answering him instead of Stella.


    "Oh, no! I don''t mind it at all. Why do you think I keep him around? What''s the use of having a personal assistant when I have to do everything myself?" Stella gave him a polite smile before her face went back to being expressionless again. There was no way she would allow someone else to humiliate her employee that too in her presence. Only she had the right to bully them. "And it''s Mrs. Levinson for you." She corrected the way he was addressing her from the moment he walked in.


    Taylor was baffled by her sudden outburst while David was having a hard time in controlling the twitching corners of his lips. ''Damn! She looks hot when she''s trying to act like this.'' He chuckled inwardly.


    "And if you are done focusing on my assistant, can we please shift our attention to the proposal?" She rolled her eyes in annoyance. She didn''t have that much free time on her plate that she could chat around with people like him.


    "Of course!" Taylor exclaimed when he found her glaring in his direction. He placed a folder before her as he began to explain. "It''s exactly the same contract that I signed with Mr. Adam, but it has your name written in places where his used to be. I have already signed them. We just need your signature to start with the project again."


    "Give me some time to read through it once. I need to make sure there aren''t any errors or loop holes in it. You can order for yourself till then and enjoy your meal." Stella spoke up, pulling the folder in her direction.


    There was no way she could trust this man''s words. According to her sources, his company was the one who leaked out the information about the project site incident. She wouldn''t take his work even over her dead body.


    "Can I order something for myself? I am famished." David questioned her while keeping his voice as low as he could. He frowned when he saw her shaking her head in a no.


    "You need to read these papers. How can you eat and focus on them at the same time?" Stella gave him a confused look.


    "Didn''t you say that you¡­." He trailed off when he realized the errors in his own words. She never said that she would do it herself. She just said that she needed to make sure that the papers were fine. ''Damn! This woman will be the death of me.''


    Stella gave him a wide smile before it disappeared right away. As on cue, there was a slight knock on the back door with which a waiter walked inside with a larger platter in his hands.


    She pushed the file before him and focused on her food which was being served. Her eyes glowed in delight as the strong aroma of grilled beef wafted up her nose. The corners of her lips turned upwards, ever so slightly that it could be mistaken for a slight stretch, as soon as her eyes landed on the starter, her favourite peri-peri bites. Along with the outer crispy layer, it was actually the cheese filling that she actually loved. And the dip this restaurant served these little bites of joy, was a different delicacy for her.


    "Where''s my drink?" She questioned the waiter after he was done serving her food and her eyes could find it.


    "I am sorry, Ma''am. But we are out of oranges for now. The delivery truck with our today''s fruit supply got broke down on its way. So it will take some time. I can serve you with something else until it gets here. It will be a complimentary drink." He bowed his head slightly as he apologized to her.


    "You don''t have to apologise to me. It''s not your fault to begin with. If you can get some pineapple shake to accompany my meal, that would do just fine." Stella gave the man a faint smile as she changed her drink of choice. "Just don''t make it too sweet, add a little amount of plain soda water in it and serve it with bite size pineapple chunks on the side."


    She continued to explain the way she would prefer her drink as the two men who were accompanying her, continued to stare at her with weird expressions marring their faces. Both of them had the same thought running in their minds. ''How could someone who looks like her, eat this much?''


    ********


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 Chapter 228 - A Fight Over Orange Juice (1)

    She continued to explain the way she would prefer her drink as the two men who were accompanying her, continued to stare at her with weird expressions marring their faces. Both of them had the same thought running in their minds. ''How could someone who looks like her, eat this much?''


    When she was done explaining the waiter about her drink, she shifted her attention to the two men who were still staring at her. She scrunched her eyebrows together. "What are you staring at?" She directed her narrowed eyes at their faces and questioned them.


    "Nothing."


    "Nothing."


    They answered at the same time, their voices overlapping with each other. They shared a look before shifting their attention back to the woman who was still glaring at them.


    "You can place your order as well, Mr. Taylor." She spoke up while looking in his direction before she turned her gaze to the man sitting next to her. "And you!" She pointed her finger towards David before shifting it to the folder. "Focus on this." She tapped her finger on the file which was lying open before him, just to stress her words.


    --------


    "Can I eat now?" David heaved out a long, tired sigh and questioned his Boss. He was famished after going through that thick bundle of pages, there was barely a single molecule of energy left inside his body.


    They papers were signed and Taylor had already left after finishing his meal, while Stella was focused more on finishing her orange juice than the crying man child next to her.


    "Are you listening to me?" David asked her when he didn''t get a response from her. A single him entered his ear which was her response to his second question. He was beginning to see red everywhere, especially when his eyes landed on the huge glass muh which was still half filled with freshly squeezed orange juice.


    He clenched his jaw as his began to lose his temper. He knew he couldn''t get angry at her, so he tried to think of a better way to teach her a lesson for being so careless about her employee''s needs.


    A devilish smirk graced his lips and his eyes began to shine with a mischievous glint. He lightly tapped her on his shoulder to get her undivided attention. When he saw her letting go of the glass straw from her lips and turning her face towards him, he leaned his face in, startling her by their sudden closeness.


    "May I?" He questioned her while gazing into her hazel orbs which mirrored his face under the bright yellow lights.


    "Huh?" Stella furrowed her eyebrows, a small v forming in between her scrunched brows.


    "May I have it?" She heard him ask her the same question again but this time it was a bit descriptive. Though she had no idea what the man was referring to, she still nodded her head in a yes. That was the only thing she could do under his intense stare.


    "Thanks." He muttered softly, but loud enough for her ears to catch it. His response made her more confused but it went flying right out of the window when she saw what he did next.


    He grabbed onto her glass mug and brought it closer to his lips. Not paying any attention to the straw, he chugged it down. After finishing half of what was left of the juice, he exhaled out a contented sigh with a big goofy smile resting on his face.


    Stella opened and closed her mouth a couple of times like a gaping fish out of water, as she refused to believe what had just conspired before her eyes. Not a single word could find its way to her lips as if all of them had died at the base of her throat.


    "How could you?" She finally managed to speak as she gritted her teeth.


    "How could I what?" He tried to feign innocence but failed at it terribly.


    "You!" Stella jumped towards his direction to grab the mug back but she was too slow for him as he had already predicted her move and had shifted from the seat.


    "You missed." He spoke up while wearing a proud smirk on his face. He was now standing a couple of feet away from her, holding the mug up in the air as it was some golden trophy, which it kind of was for him.


    He saw her shifting from her seat and move to where he was standing. As if everything happened in a blink of an eye, the two grown up adults were running around the empty room with Stella following him around he tried to keep the mug to himself.


    "Why do you want it back?" He chuckled as he saw her petite figure trying to catch up with his tall one.


    "What do you mean back? It''s mine to begin with. How dare you snatch my drink away?" Stella yelled at him.


    "Hey! I asked you if I could have it, not once but twice. And you said yes to me." David came to stop on the other side of the table as he gave her an innocent look.


    "I didn''t even know you were talking about my drunk or else there was no way I would have said yes to you. I love my drinks way too much to even share it with someone." Stella scrunched her nose up to show her displeasure as she slowly walked out to where he came to a stop.


    She was about to grab the mug back from his hands but he moved it away from her reach, holding it up in the air. Stella let out an annoyed grunt when she saw him using his tall height for his own advantage. She tried to reach the mug as she stood on her tiptoes, though it was not very easy to those block heeled boots. Even after she managed to pull it off, she was nowhere near his elbows.


    ''I could reach it if I jump.'' She thought to herself but decided not to act on it as her mind reminded her of her pregnancy. ''That definitely won''t do my babies any good.'' She threw that idea out of the window as well as she wouldn''t like if any harm were to come to her babies, that too over a glass of orange juice.


    But she continued to stand on her tiptoes, refusing to give up easily before the man. She tried to reach as high as could but it was useless before the man who continued to stand in a relaxed manner while leaning against the mahogany wood table. He was not even standing up all the way straight and only had his hand extending up into the air.


    He was about to continue teasing the woman who was trying her best to reach up to the mug which was waiting to be grabbed by her. But all of his thoughts came crashing down when he heard her yell as she lost her footing.


    ********


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 Chapter 229 - A Fight Over Orange Juice (2)

    He was about to continue teasing the woman who was trying her best to reach up to the mug which was waiting to be grabbed by her. But all of his thoughts came crashing down when he heard her yell as she lost her footing.


    A muscular hand instinctively wrapped around her waist and pulled her closer, making her land on his broad, toned chest. Stella looked up only to find a pair of eyes looking back at her with concern.


    "Are you okay?" Davide questioned her as three horizontal lines graced his forehead.


    Stella slightly nodded her head in a yes before scrunching her nose up as a throbbing pain shot up her right foot.


    "You are a bad liar." He shook his head as he placed the glass mug down on the table next to himself. He picked her up in his arms and swing her around so that she was hovering over the table. His actions took her by surprise and she continued to stare at his face even after he had placed her down, making her sit on the table such that her legs were hanging off from it.


    "I am going to have a look at your wound." He informed her before he went down on his knees. He took off her right boot and held it up in his palms so that he could have a better look at her sole.


    Just like he had predicted, the wound had opened and it was bleeding. He shook his head in helplessness as he applied some pressure on it in order to stop the bleeding. ''What would this woman do without him?''


    "We need to go back home and get your wound dressed up again." He looked up at her only to find her looking back at him intently.


    "You remind me so much of my husband." He heard her say before her lips curled in a sad smile.


    "Maybe I am your husband who has been reincarnated in someone else''s body. And I joined the company as your personal assistant so that I could always be around you and make you fall for the new me." He stood up and spoke up seriously only to find her rolling her eyes at him.


    "Yeah, sure. Try doing your best and maybe you will succeed one day." Stella let out a low chuckle as she picked up the mug and began to sip on the orange juice, finishing off whatever little juice was left in it. "Let''s head back to the office.  am sure that I have a first aid kit there and I can carry on with work after getting the dressing done." Stella spoke up as she tried to jump down from the table but a strong pair of arms stopped her from doing so.


    "Are you crazy?" David glared at her before glancing at her foot for a fleeting second.  "Didn''t you hear what I just told you? There''s no way I am letting you walk all the way back to your car in this condition." He shook his head to stress on his words. He bent down and picked her boot up and passed it to her to hold onto it.


    Stella quietly took it from him and was about to bend down so that she could put it on, but she stopped in her tracks when two muscular arms wrapped around her body and picked her up with ease.


    "There''s no way your reincarnated husband will let you walk with an injured foot." David spoke up with a smug on his face as he began to walk towards the door, carrying her in his arms.


    --------


    "You alright?" He questioned her after placing her down in the shotgun seat.


    Since they were supposed to go back to the company after the meeting, Stella had given Edward an early off. She had decided to drive herself just for today, but who knew that this would happen to her foot.


    "Hold on." David spoke up as he remembered about the cushion which was on the back seat. He brought it to the front and placed it below her right foot so that she would be comfortable during the drive.


    "Thank you." Stella spoke up and gave him a wide smile. She was actually thankful to him for all of his help so far. It was just his second day at the job and he had helped her out so many times that she couldn''t count on her fingers.


    "it''s no big deal." He gave out a genuine smile before walking around the car to the driver''s seat. Once he was settled in, he turned on the ignition and pulled the car away from the parking lot of the mall.


    "Can I ask you one thing? I mean if you don''t mind it." He questioned Stella, keeping his eyes set on the road ahead.


    Stella was typing in her phone when she heard him. Her figures stopped for a little while, lingering over the screen before they went back to doing their job. "Shoot." She replied to him with a single word.


    "You clearly hate the man from earlier. Why did you sign that contract with him?" He questioned her.


    "I had to do that." Stella briefly replied to his question. After staying quiet for a while, she continued. "I did it because I had to get the project which started under the name of Levinson''s Corp., to its end. There''s no way I am going to give those business rivals even a single point to make fun of."


    David hummed softly when he heard her reason. "You sure love your husband a lot." He murmured softly.


    "Of course, I do." Her reply made him shift his gaze from the road to her. He frowned when he saw her left hand resting against her stomach as a fond smile rested on her lips while she absent-mindedly gazed outside.


    ********


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 Chapter 230 - Dream Or Imagination?

    "Wakey wakey." David murmured softly next to her ear. He had parked the car in her usual spot. But when he turned around to look at his Boss, he found her deep asleep as she rested her head against the headrest of her seat.


    ''No wonder I was able to drive in peace." He let out a low chuckle before he tapped her shoulder lightly a couple of times. He heard a low groan which escaped her lips as she shifted in her seat, but didn''t wake up.


    Shaking his head sideways, he unlocked the doors and stepped out of the car. He walked around to her side and opened the door after making sure she wasn''t leaning on it. After unfastening her seatbelt, he slowly slid down his hands behind her back and under her legs and carefully picked her up. He made sure that her head was resting comfortably on his shoulder as she continued to enjoy her peaceful slumber.


    He carried her all the way up to the top most floor where her office was located. Under the scrutinizing gaze of the staff member, he carried her inside her office and then room inside. He placed her down on the bed and covered her body with the duvet, making sure that she was tucked in properly up to her chin.


    After making sure that she was comfortable, he moved his attention towards the wound which needed to be tended as soon as possible. He removed her other boot as his mind drifted to its other partner. ''Damn! I forgot to bring it up with me.'' After making a mental note that he needed to bring it over later, he decided to look for the first aid kit.


    Twenty minutes later, he was done with cleaning her wound and the new dressing as well. He put down the first aid kit back in its original place after he made sure that her feet was securely tucked inside the duvet. Giving her small face which was peeping out the duvet one last look, he walked out of the room, not forgetting to close the door on his way out.


    --------


    Slowly opening her eyelids, she stretched her arms as a loud yawn escaped her lips. Thinking that she might still be in the car''s shotgun seat, her eyes moved around only to find out that she was in a completely different environment. She shot up from the bed, sitting up straight as her eyes lingered on her surroundings for a bit longer. It was then she realized that she was inside the room of her office.


    ''Who the hell brought me up?'' She thought to herself as she scratched the back of her head. She remembered that David was the one who was driving her back to the office as her wound needed to be cleaned and required a new dressing.


    She moved the duvet from her right leg only to find out that her foot was wrapped up in a new bandage. ''Now, who the hell did that?'' With each passing minute, she was becoming more and more confused. Moreover, there was no one beside her in the room to whom she could ask these questions which were troubling her mind.


    As if listening to her troubled mind, somebody opened the door to the room firm outside and stepped inside. Thinking that it must be Bella, Stella was preparing herself to shoot all those questions at her. But when her eyes landed on the face of the person who had just walked inside, all those questions got stuck at the back of her mouth as her mind refused to function.


    "You are finally up. Aren''t you becoming more lazy these days?"


    She heard the very voice which her ears had been missing to listen for the past one month. The very same voice which was no less than music to her ears and a melodious lullaby in her sleepless nights.


    "I am dreaming again, ain''t I?" She murmured to herself as she questioned her own sight. It wasn''t the first time she had had a dream about him. It wasn''t the first time during the past month that she hadn''t imagined him standing right before her, all freshly showered and neatly dressed, just like his usual self.


    She had to accept that even when he was a part of her imagination, he didn''t look any less handsome. He was still an eye candy for her. She wanted to pinch herself to bring herself out of this dream. But she didn''t know whether or not she could handle the heartbreak of him disappearing right before her eyes, once again.


    "What are you staring at?" She heard him ask and couldn''t help but tear up a little.


    "You." She stated as a matter of fact before closing her eyes shut. A lone tear escaped her eyes when she pinched herself on the arm. She slowly opened her eyes thinking that she might be back in the car or may be in the same room, waking up with a startle. But to her dismay, as soon as she opened her eyes they landed right on the same familiar face but this time, it was way too closer.


    "Are you crazy?" He questioned her again before flicking her on the forehead. "Why would you pinch your own self?" He shook his head in helplessness as he pulled on her arm to examine the spot where she had pinched herself. Just as he thought, the spot was glaring red, making him frown further.


    "You have definitely lost your mind¡­." His words trailed off when he found her jumping right in his arms, burying her face in his chest as she began to sob.


    ********


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 Chapter 231 - Tears

    "You have definitely lost your mind¡­." His words trailed off when he found her jumping right in his arms, burying her face in his chest as she began to sob.


    Adam just wrapped her arms around her petite figure and hugged her closer to himself. He knew that no matter what he said then, wouldn''t be able to justify his absence from her life. He rubbed her back lightly as she continued to sob in his chest.


    "Can you stop with the crying, please?" He finally spoke up after a while when he saw that there was no chance of her stopping anytime soon. He hated it when even a single tear made its way out of her beautiful eyes. But right now he hated himself as he was the sole reason behind her current state.


    "Sweetheart?" He called her softly as he tried to separate her figure from his chest, not because he was minding that her tears was drenching his shirt, but because he wanted to have a better look at her face. But Stella refused to let go of him, instead she tightened her hold around him as she was too afraid to let go of him, thinking that he might disappear again as soon as she would loosen up her hold.


    Heaving out a small sigh, Adam decided to change her position and shifted her body such that it was her side which was now resting against his chest. He cupped her face with his right palm while his other hand continued to hold on to her frail body.


    ''Is it just me or her body seems a bit leaner than before?'' He thought to himself but decided to push down the thought for now as he had more important things to do first.


    He wiped off her streaming tears with his thumb before he angled her face up so that she was looking up at him. "Stop with the crying, please my love." He asked her again. "You know I couldn''t bear to see you shedding a single tear." He wiped her tears again which refused to stop from sliding down her cheeks.


    "Y-you will le-leave m-me a-gain." She managed to speak in her choked up voice.


    "I am not going to leave you, not now, not ever again." He patted the top of her head as he tried his best to make her realize that he wasn''t going anywhere without her ever again.


    "Why did you leave me then? Why did you disappear and left me all on my own? Do you know how much pain I was in all this time? Do you have any idea how hard it was for me to get through that on my own?" She threw a series of questions his way.


    "I am sorry." Adam could only apologize to the woman who was crying like a baby in his arms. He knew that he had a lot that he needed to explain to her, but calming her down and stop her from shedding those years was at the top of his list at the moment.


    "I am so, so sorry." He apologized to her again as he shifted her body slightly so that he could have a better look at her face. Cupping her small face in his palms, he bent his face down, leaning his forehead against hers.


    "I am sorry for all of that. And I know my sorry won''t undo all of that, but that''s all I can do at the moment. I can just apologise to my little elf for being a bad boyfriend." He spoke as he gazed into her teary eyes which were barely open.


    "You have been a really, really bad boyfriend." She spoke up in her cramped up voice in between her sobs while Adam continued to nod his head like a broken bobblehead doll at her accusations.


    "I am not imagining you." She spoke up again only to see him shake his head lightly. "This is not a dream." Her lips quivered as she tried to make her believe that she wasn''t dreaming all of this.


    Adam shook his head again, still keeping his forehead on hers. "Should I give you a hickey to make you believe that I am not some figment of your imagination or a part of some dream of yours." He gave her his signature smirk only to get an eye roll in response.


    He moved his head back slightly and wiped her tears as a frown marred his forehead. "Can you please stop shedding these precious pearls?" He asked her again, almost pleading her this time.


    He heaved out a long sigh of relief when he saw her nod her head in a yes as she tried to wipe off the remnants of her tears with the back of her hands.


    "When did you come? And how?" She asked him when she was able to get a hold of herself.


    "Nobody knows that I am here except for Bella and that was a coincidence as well that walked in on me when I was going through the files which were resting on your office desk." He replied to her as he pulled her closer to him and made her body lean against his chest, making sure that her head was resting comfortably on his shoulder.


    "Then how did you come in?" Stella questioned him again as his answer made her confused. "There''s no way that she saw you just because she entered without knocking on the door and you were just there in your office, sitting in front of your desk. Even if you took your personal elevator, at least the people out there must have seen you exiting it and then walking up to the office." She was becoming more and more confused as she analyzed the situation.


    ''Just how could that happen?''


    *******


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 Chapter 232 - Ruined The Mask

    ''Just how could that happen?''


    His fingers found their way to her eyebrows and rubbed the spot in between them, trying to remove the creases. "Well, truth be told, all of them saw me bringing you up her but none of them knew it was me." Adam explained it to her as he continued to rub her forehead.


    "How could that be possible?" Stella questioned him again saw his lips curl up in a devilish smirk. "Adam, answer me." She couldn''t help but call out his name as she stressed on the latter part.


    "I have been around you for quite some time now. It''s just you weren''t able to recognize me." He patted the top of her head lovingly as he hugged her tightly.


    "How could that be possible?" Stella rolled her eyes even though she knew he couldn''t see her doing that as her face was resting against his shoulder.


    "Umm¡­ promise me that you won''t kill me after I tell you the whole truth." He spoke up and heaved out a long sigh. He knew all hell was going to break loose after he explain it to her.


    "I promise." He heard her murmuring against his neck as she tightened her hold around his waist. There was no way she was going to push him away from herself now. She was finally able to hug him and bathe in the warmth that his embrace was providing her.


    "To begin with it, I was the one who brought you up in my arms and changed the dressing of your wound." He tilted his head so that he could have a better look on her face as he continued. "Did I forget to mention that it was me who drove you here from the mall?" He added as his voice turned down a couple of notches.


    "What nonsense are you spouting? David was the one who drove me back." Stella uttered before she began to think over her own words and his as well. If he was telling her the truth, this could only mean one thing.


    "David." She muttered her under her breath but Adam still caught on it.


    "Yes, Boss." He spoke up with a smirk resting on his face. But what shocked Stella wasn''t his reply, rather it was the tone of his voice. It was exactly the same nagging voice which she had gotten used to in these two days.


    "You were David." She wanted to ask him about it to make sure that the conclusion she had drawn was right, but her words came out like a statement instead.


    Adam still nodded his in a yes as he corrected her at the same time. "I still am David." He smiled at her. "I needed to keep an eye on you and still hide myself from the enemy at the same time. So, I decided to ask an old friend to get me in contact with some good make artists whom he knew. He owed me favor anyways, so he helped me out with the identity and all." He explained it to her.


    Stella stayed quiet for a while as she gave herself some time to process what he had just told her. "Why did you decide to show me your face now? I mean it''s just day two of your job. I mean David''s job." She finally spoke up after a while.


    "I was dying to hold you in my arms and I knew I wouldn''t be able to do that with the mask on." He heaved out a tired sigh as he buried his face in the crook of her neck. "And I kind of ruined my mask after tucking you in." He muttered lightly against her skin, making her to narrow her eyes at his figure.


    "You!" She pinched his cheek. "If the mask wasn''t ruined, then how long you would have continued to hide yourself from me?" She questioned her as she dreaded over the thought of not being able to recognize him even though he was this close to her.


    "Do you think I would have been able to keep myself away from you? I haven''t spent even two full days with you and my hands were itching to touch you." As if sensing her worries, Adam tried to calm her down but it was useless as her thoughts kept drifting to the what ifs.


    "How many days, Adam?" She questioned him again as she wanted to know the exact number of days he would have kept this under wraps, hiding his own self from her.


    Heaving out a tired sigh, Adam decided to answer her honestly. "A week or two, mayne three." He couldn''t bring himself to lie to his little elf.


    "What did you say?" Stella gritted her teeth as she questioned him. Pushing herself away from him she narrowed her eyes, glaring at the top of his head as he tried his best to avoid looking into her eyes. The change in the tone of her voice was enough of a hint for him to know that he was screwed.


    "I asked you a question, Mr. Adam Levinson. Answer me." She asked him again as she clenched her jaw. She pinched the skin of his chin as she held it in between her fingers and tilted it upwards, making him look at her.


    Under her glaring, he finally repeated his answer from earlier. "A week or two, maybe three."


    She let out a chuckle and added sarcastically."Oh! Looks like your were enjoying yourself too much with all that teasing, weren''t you? Looks like you enjoy your life much more when I am not in it." Before she could continue any further a finger landed on her lips, stopping her from spouting any more nonsense.


    "The hell you are spouting." He spoke up as he fiercely looked at her. "I cannot imagine my life without you, and you think that I would enjoy it? And are you going to turn a blind eye to the name which comes after your own." He snaked his arms around her figure and pulled her petite figure closer to his muscular one. "Mrs. Stella Levinson."


    *******


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 Chapter 233 - Longing

    "The hell you are spouting." He spoke up as he fiercely looked at her. "I cannot imagine my life without you, and you think that I would enjoy it? And are you going to turn a blind eye to the name which comes after your own." He snaked his arms around her figure and pulled her petite figure closer to his muscular one. "Mrs. Stella Levinson."


    He breathed in and out heavily as his gray orbs gazed into her hazel ones. His eyes trailed to her slightly parted lips as his thin ones hovered above them. "I don''t want you to repeat these words, ever." He muttered softly as he leaned his lips closer to hers. "Now, how shall I punish you for this." He murmured against her lips as his eyes shifted back to hers which were barely open.


    His lips curled up in a faint smirk before he crashed on her tinted ones. His lips began to move slowly against hers. He sucked on the top one before moving his attention to the lower one as he showered it with the same affection. He alternated between the two, pouring all of his longing and emotions into the kiss.


    Stella kept her eyes shut as she let him take the lead and do as he pleased. She continued to enjoy his slow and torturous assault on her lips. She began to reciprocate his actions as a low moan escaped her lips. She could her insides heating up as his hands roamed over her body, exploring the all so familiar curvy figure.


    She felt his tongue licking the rims of her lips as he seeked her permission to enter and rediscover her sweet cavern again. She willingly parted her lips and allowed his skilful tongue to make its own way inside.


    A low groan resonated at the base of his throat when he felt her willingness to surrender herself to him. His expert tongue moved and explored every single nook and cranny of her mouth as he sucked on her tongue. His calloused palms found their way inside of her tucked in shirt as he continued to feel her curves, this time without a piece of cloth hindering his tracks.


    The kiss which started off as a slow and sensual ome, was now becoming heated. The movements of their lips against each other''s were becoming more and more wild with each passing second. None of them wanted to let go of the other even though their breaths were becoming shorter, with each having fears of their own. They didn''t want the moment to end.


    One whole month of being parted away from your better half, wasn''t easy for either of the two. It was no less than a punishment for their souls. So, they continued to pour their emotions, their love, their pain into the kiss which was getting more and more passionate as both of them refused to step back.


    Adam''s fingers began to move over her buttons, undoing each of them as they moved up. After undoing the last one, he pushed the cotton button down shirt of her shoulders, leaving her upper body only with a black bra which was covering those two beautiful mounds of flesh he loved so dearly.


    Stella hissed lightly against his lips as the cold air made contact with her bare skin. Though it didn''t last longer as his muscular arms wrapped around her petite figure, providing her the warmth which she was craving for so long now.


    Adam shifted their bodies, making her lie on the bed as his lips finally let go of hers, leaving them all swollen up and red. He shifted his attention to her exposed neck, rubbing his nose along its entire length before peppering light kisses on her smooth skin.


    When he finally reached the junction of her neck and neck shoulders, he latched his lips on her milky, soft skin but this time, he didn''t let go of it right away. He continued to pepper kisses at the same spot before he began to suck on the same spot.


    A couple of moans escaped her lips as his sinful ones continued to assault her body, leaving marks of his affection in their path as they moved lower and lower.


    "Let''s get rid of this." She heard him speak as his fingers moved around her back and unhooked her be before getting it off.


    Stella continued to lay still on the silk sheets as his eyes lingered over the two mounds of flesh before moving back to her face. A devilish grin appeared on his lips as his tongue peaked out of that mouth of his and traced over his lower lip, wetting it in the process.


    His eyes moved back to the twin peaks before he latched his around one of the two rosy pearls resting on top of each one, making her gasp as she grabbed the sheets in her fists to keeping the heat which was building up inside her body, in control. But all her attempts went useless as his skilful tongue swirled around the rosy bud as his fingers continued to toy with its twin.


    ----------


    "What do mean?" Taylor yelled at the person who was standing before him with his head bowed down.


    "That''s what our sources told us, Sir." The man meekly replied, still keeping his eyes set on the floor.


    A loud shattering sound was heard which echoed inside the quiet room, breaking the silence. The man slightly shifted his eyes to find a few glass shards surrounding him. His eyes then moved to his Boss who was seething in anger, his jaw tightly clenched as his veins became visible. He began to curse his luck as to why he was supposed to be the bearer of bad news for him. Why couldn''t anyone else do this. Why did it have to be him of all the people.


    "Get lost." Taylor yelled at the man again. One look at his bloodshot eyes and the man ran out of the room.


    Taylor gritted his teeth as his mind went back to the lady who barely paid any attention to him throughout their meeting. She even bothered to protect her own employee before him and was even nice to him, treating him like thin air. But that wasn''t what he was so angry about.


    The man from earlier had informed him that the spies he had planted in Levinson''s Corp., had seen her being carried all the way up to her office by that measly personal assistant of hers. Nobody had the right to even touch what was his. ''Looks like I need to take you out of my path as well.'' He thought inwardly before breaking out in fits of laughter. He could see that the day wasn''t too far away when he would be the one to hold her in his arms.


    He was too lost in his own thoughts that he didn''t register the shadow which moved past the door of his room.


    *******


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 Chapter 234 - A Bad Dream

    His eyes lingered over the face of his sleeping beauty as he had his face resting on his propped up elbow. His other hand was draped over her waist as he held her close.


    He wanted to do the deed with her, and the longing he had for exploring her body once again after so long. He didn''t want to leave any part of her body left untouched by his lips, but he had to stop himself from proceeding any further when he saw her trying to stifle a yawn when his fingers were working on her leather belt.


    Though she was adamant to continue their passionate activities, he had forced her to take some rest. And to his surprise, she had fallen asleep as soon as she closed her eyes after he had changed her into some comfortable clothes. He was thankful to Katherine for making sure that her closets were filled with clothes suitable for the weather.


    He continued to gaze at her petite figure as his thoughts drifted back to the moment he was cupping her breasts. ''What is it just me or they seemed changed¡­ more Fuller?'' He thought inwardly as he doubted himself. ''Maybe it''s just that I am holding her after so long.'' Her body did seem more petite than before.


    ''All of this must have taken a toll on her.'' He shook his head in helplessness. He was on a guilt trip as he blamed himself for her messed up health, but he came out of it when he saw her furrowing her brows. A deep frown marred her  forehead, urging his fingers go move and caress the spot as he tried to smoothen the creases.


    "I am here, sweetheart." He murmured softly next to her ear as he tried to calm her down. ''She must be having some bad dream.'' He continued to murmur sweet nothings into her ear, trying to smoothen the folds of skin on her forehead.


    He saw her getting up with a jolt, pushing his hand away from her face. She looked around herself in a dazed state. Her forehead was covered with droplets of sweat as her eyes  continued to move around as if they were searching for someone. As soon as her eyes landed on his frame, she threw herself on him with so much force that it knocked him down on the bed again.


    Not caring about himself, Adam just wrapped his arms around her lower back and hugged her back. He rubbed his back slowly when he heard a couple of sobs vibrating against her chest. Soon his shirt was drenched again as the woman in his arms continued to shed her precious tears.


    "Sshhhh! Why are you crying again? It was just a bad dream." He tried to coax her. Though he didn''t know what the context of her dream was, but looking at her shaken state, he could tell that it wasn''t something good and that it definitely had something to do with him.


    "It was a bad dream." He heard her mutter against his chest in her croaked up voice.


    "Hmm." He just hummed in response as he continued to rub her back gently. He didn''t ask her about her bad dream, his curiosity could wait a little longer. Calming her down at the moment was his priority.


    "I saw you left, more like disappear." She continued after a while. "I saw that you being David was all a dream. And you were gone after I woke up from a deep slumber."


    "It''s not a dream, my baby girl. I am really here and I am not going anywhere this time." He muttered softly as he bent his face down and placed a lingering kiss on the crown on her head.


    "You promise?" She spoke, finally looking up at his face.


    Adam gave her a bright smile and nodded his head. "I promise. Didn''t I find my back to you like I promised to you on the phone?" He rubbed the top of her head lovingly, messing up her hair.


    His actions earned him a scowl from his little elf before she questioned him again. "Where were you all this while? And how did you escape all those blasts?" These questions were troubling her mind a lot. She knew her mind won''t rest and her soul won''t be at ease unless she gets them answered by him. She was way more than thankful to the heavens above for sending him back to her and that too in a better health.


    "It''s a long story, I will tell you that some other time. But stop thinking it over and over again." He shook his head in a no. He didn''t think she would be able to handle the whole truth at the moment, and he didn''t want to lie to her even the slightest bit.


    Stella pursed her lips a pout when he didn''t answer her. Giving him an annoyed look she wiped her teary face with his shirt, earning a chuckle from the man whose clothes were being used as a tissue paper. But he could care less even if it was his own self in place of his shirt. She would always be his number one priority.


    "Talking about being annoyed, why did you cut your hair so short?" He narrowed his eyes at her face as she tried to avoid looking into his gray orbs. "Answer me, Stella." He toughened his voice and asked her.


    "Actually, I did not lie to David. What I told him¡­ I mean you earlier, was the truth. They were too long for me to handle while managing the company." She answered him honestly.


    Adam hummed in response as she tucked a few tendrils of her hair behind her ear to get them away from her face as they were blocking his view. "I have to agree that this hairstyle suits you better. They make you look younger and more adorable, but there''s a drawback to it as well."


    "What drawback?" She frowned at the latter part of his sentence.


    "Even those pesky teenagers are going to hit on you now. I better hire a whole team of bodyguards to keep those unwanted little flies away from you." He answered her as he recalled the elevator incident from earlier.


    Stella let out a hearty chuckle when she saw his scrunched up face. "Is someone getting jealous?" She wiggled her eyebrows while enjoying this side of her man.


    "Why would I be jealous of them? Are you forgetting whose name is on your marriage certificate, Mrs. Adam Levinson?" His lips curled up in a lop-sided grin when he saw her burying her face in his chest as a faint blush crept up on her cheeks. "Who''s the one blushing now?" He lightly tapped on the back of her head to make her look up.


    Stella rolled her eyes as she tried to think of a way to divert the topic away from herself. "Oh! It''s a good thing that you are back. Even if you choose to continue as David, you can at least help me run this whole empire. It''s not easy to run an entire conglomerate. It''s too much of stress, especially for a pregnant woman."


    Adam hummed in response. "You are right. I can help you out as your personal assistant since my identity is no longer a secret from you. You won''t have to do this...." He trailed off as his mind registered her words from earlier.


    *******


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 Chapter 235 - I Am Going To Be A Daddy

    Adam hummed in response. "You are right. I can help you out as your personal assistant since my identity is no longer a secret from you. You won''t have to do this...." He trailed off as his mind registered her words from earlier.


    After two minutes of absolute silence, he finally opened his mouth. "What did you just say?" He questioned her, his voice so slow that he could barely hear it himself.


    Stell frowned after hearing his words. She began to go through her own words from earlier and realized what she had spoken up in her flushed state.


    She indeed wanted to shift the topic to something else instead of being in the spotlight, but it looked like she would always end up right there as long as the other person was Adam. She knew all too well that for him, she would always be the center of attention. His world started and ended with her. In short, it revolved around her.


    She raised her eyebrows and tried to act as innocent as she could. "That you will help me in running the empire¡­." She trailed off as she gazed back at his baffled expressions, silently asking for confirmation that it was indeed the point he was referring to.


    "Not that part. I meant the part where you mentioned something about stress." Adam gave his head a little shake and corrected her. His eyes didn''t leave her face even for a mere second.


    "Oh! I said that running this whole empire isn''t easy. It''s just too much stress for a woman." Stella widened her eyes as if she had finally figured out the part which he meant. She deliberately left out the last part of her sentence.


    ''This man had me worried about his well being for more than a month now, I am not going to give into his demands easily. It''s my time to have some fun.'' She thought to herself as she inwardly let out a devilish chuckle.


    "After that. I want to know what you said after that. It was something along the lines that it''s too much of stress especially for¡­.." He shook his head in a no again and exactly pinpointed the words he wanted her to repeat, leaving out the last few words. He couldn''t bring himself to speak it out loud as he was still having doubts on his hearing ability.


    Stella frowned as she gazed up at him. She was still lying over him, her hands folded over his chest as she rested her chin on them. She pursed her lips in an adorable pout, trying to act as if she was lost in some deep thinking. Widening her eyes, she gave him a smile as if she had finally figured it out.


    "It''s too much of stress, especially for a pregnant woman." She gave him a wide smile as she continued to look at her bewildered expressions. His face was blank and his eyes were popping out of their sockets as if they would fall out any moment.


    "What did you say?" He questioned her again, but didn''t wait for her response. "A pregnant woman? Why would you use such a peculiar example?" He asked her, drawing his brows together.


    Stella gave him an annoyed look as she chose to stay silent this time. Her eyes said it all, more specifically, her slightly raised eyebrows which could only be transcribed as a ''duh''.


    "You¡­ you are... pregnant." His broken words came out of his mouth after what seemed like an eternity for Stella. It was more of a statement, rather a question.


    Stella gave him a confirmatory nod with her usual bright smile which was only reserved for the love of her life, who was none other than the man before her.


    "You are pregnant." She heard him repeat the same sentence again, but this time without any breaks. She nodded her head again in a yes as she let him have his own time to register the news.


    Adam blinked his eyes a couple of times as he stared at the woman in his arms. His own words from earlier, continued to ring in his ears. He continued to gawk at her face which was lit up with her signature smile, before he shifted both of their bodies in one swift move, making Stella lie on the bed with her back pressed against the mattress.


    His broad body, hovered above her lean one with his muscular arms supporting it which were resting on either side of her. "You are pregnant." His blank face finally had some expressions on it which could be counted as a happy shocked state. The corners of his lips twitched before they curled up in a wide smile which showed off his pearly white teeth.


    A loud hearty laughter resonated through the quiet room as the corner of his eyes began to glisten with unshed tears.


    He moved his body such that his face was now before her stomach. Using his one hand, he rolled up the hem of the loose sweatshirt she was wearing, exposing her stomach. His eyes roamed over her almost flat belly for a while longer as he went quiet.


    "You are pregnant." He repeated the same line like a broken record player. But unlike it, his voice was brimming with more and more enthusiasm every time he repeated it.


    "I am going to be a Daddy." He looked up from stomach only to find her staring back at him intently. He saw her giving him a small but firm nod as her the corner of her lips continued to keep curled up.


    "How long have you known?" Adam questioned her as he pressed the side of his face against he exposed stomach, making sure that he wasn''t putting too much of his weight on it.


    "A couple of days after I met your lawyer. I was at the company and fainted as a result of over exerting myself beyond my limit. Bella took me to the hospital and that''s when my doctor told me." Stella truthfully explained the events of that day to him. She knew it was useless to keep a single detail from him as he could always tell when she was lying or hiding something.


    "How old is our baby?" She heard him ask as his voice turned a couple of notches down. "Two months now. According to it, I think it was on your birthday night that I conceived." She added only get a single hum in response.


    She frowned at the lack of response from him. Knowing him, wouldn''t he be like jumping with glee that his babies were conceived on his birthday. A couple of seconds later, she realized what was wrong with him as she felt some warm liquid one her stomach where his face was resting.


    "Adam?" She called out to him softly only to get no response in return. She trailed her hands to where his face was, her fingers finding their way through the locks of his hair. Grabbing his face in her palms, she forced him to look up at her. The corners of her lips curled upwards when her hazel eyes made contact with his gray ones.


    *******


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 Chapter 236 - The Jealous Parent

    "Adam?" She called out to him softly only to get no response in return. She trailed her hands to where his face was, her fingers finding their way through the locks of his hair. Grabbing his face in her palms, she forced him to look up at her. The corners of her lips curled upwards when her hazel eyes made contact with his gray ones.


    "I never knew my husband can even be a cry baby." Stella teased him as her fingers traced the corners of his eyes which were red and filled with tears upto the brim. A couple of tears had somehow found their way out and were running down his cheeks. Each time he blinked, a few more would run down as new ones took their place.


    Using her thumb, she wiped his cheeks before cupping his face in between her small palms. "Are you really this much happy?" She questioned him only to get a firm nod in response. He refused to say a single word from his mouth. He knew he would just end up shedding more of these droplets of warm, salty water if he opened his mouth. And in no way he wanted to seem weak before his beloved wife, especially when she was pregnant.


    "Hey, it''s okay to cry at times." She patted the top of his head while her other palm continued to hold his face in place. As if her words were what he was waiting for, he leaned his forehead against her bare stomach and continued to silently cry, shedding his tears.


    He was blaming his own self for leaving her all on her own in this condition. He was on a guilt trip, accusing himself for leaving his baby and his wife all alone during the time they needed him the most. His continued to silently sob against her stomach as he cursed himself internally.


    Stella shook her head at her big baby. Even though they haven''t been together for long now, but she knew him too well to tell what was going on in his thick skull. She continued to run her fingers through the silky locks of his finger and massage his scalp as she tried to think of a way to make his mood better.


    After a while, her eyes glowed in excitement as a brilliant idea popped in her mind. "Don''t you want to know the gender of the baby?" She questioned him as she tapped on top of his head a couple of times to get his attention.


    "I am not as dumb as you think. The baby is too young to tell about the gender." He replied to her, barely looking up from her stomach. "But I have a hunch that the baby will definitely be my little princess." He murmured softly.


    "Yeah, yeah! So that she can have all of your undivided attention just like she is now." She narrowed her eyes and glared at the top of his head when she saw him paying no attention to her.


    "No one can take your place in my life, not even our little princess." Adam finally looked up at her, a frown marring his forehead. But his expressions were a bit better than before as his eyes were a little less red.


    Stella smiled inwardly when she saw that her plan was working and his attention was diverted. Putting on a scowl on her face, she continued. "I can see that very much clear." She scoffed as gave an eye roll.


    "You know what? I hope that ''both'' of our babies turn out to be boys, so that I can dote on them as much as I want and you can be the jealous parent." She humphed as she shifted her gaze away from him.


    Adam glared at her and continued to argue. "Well, you can humph all you want when both of our babies will turn out to be girls." He gave her a proud smirk which soon disappeared from his face as he pondered over his own words.


    "You said both of our babies?" He questioned her. "Are you planning to have just two children?" He frowned as he got up and propped up his upper body on his elbow. The thought of having only two little versions of her, saddened him for some reason.


    "Oh! I think I forget to mention that I am pregnant with twins." Stella shrugged her shoulders and answered him with a blank face. Looking at his baffled expressions, she was having a hard time in controlling the twitching corners of her lips.


    "Did you just say that you are pregnant with twins?" Adam raised his eyebrows as he questioned her.


    Stella hummed and bobbled her head up and down before giving him a faint smile. Seeing her response, he shifted his eyes to her stomach where they lingered over for some time, before shifting back to her face.


    "We are going to have twins." He repeated the same sentence again and again as the corners of his lips tugged upwards. He shifted his gaze back to her exposed stomach and peppered feather like kisses all over her stomach.


    "Damn! How did I get so lucky?" He finally exclaimed in joy after he was down showering kisses over her belly.


    "Because you have me." He heard her voice which was brimming with pride.


    "I am the one who did all the hard work." He spoke up, furrowing his eyebrows as he crawled up on her body using his elbows and only stopped once his face was right before hers. "All you did was enjoy as you moaned my name, asking me to move faster and faster." He added as he fixed her sweatshirt and pulled the duvet up to cover their bodies.


    "Don''t have a come back now?" He smirked while looking at her flushed face. "Aren''t you going to give me response?" He murmured softly against her skin as he peppered down kisses along her jaw, making her gasp at their sudden intimacy.


    "Adam¡­." Her words trailed off as he began to nibble on her earlobe.


    He hummed sensually next to her ear, asking her to continue. But Stella was in no place to carry on, she didn''t even have a clue what she was going to say to him next. Why did it only required a single touch from him to make her lose her mind. One touch from him and all of her senses would stop working, especially her mind.


    His lips eventually found hers and he placed a lingering kiss over them. "Thank you so much, my love." He muttered against her rosy lips which were still a bit swollen.


    "And I am sorry that you and my babies had to be on your own this past month. I promise that I will always stand like a wall before you guys. I won''t let anything happen to any of you. And I don''t really care about the gender of our babies, I will shower them with the same affection and love." He placed a couple of light kisses on her lips.


    He shifted their bodies such that she was now lying on top of him. "And even if they cannot take the place that their mother has in my heart and life." He pressed a lingering kiss on top of her head. "Rest well, my baby girl." He muttered softly above her head as he wrapped his arms around her figure.


    *******


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 Chapter 237 - Seems So Real

    Adam was sitting on the couch while Stella was busy going through some emails while occupying the CEO''s chair. Doing work while being pregnant wasn''t an easy job for her as she was almost always either tired or sleepy. She still couldn''t believe that she had slept for three hours straight, that too during the day time. As a result of her sleepiness, the office hours were over a long while ago and she was stuck in here, finishing off her pending work.


    Her eyes drifted off across the table, landing on the couch which was on the other side of the room. A faint smile hugged her lips as she gazed at her man who was helping her out with her work. ''It''s actually his work that you are doing right now.'' Her subconscious decided to take a peek out and nagged her.


    She frowned as she scolded her subconscious for being so bad with her timing. She just wanted to steal a look at him every now and then while he was oblivious of it. But Adam was very much aware of those little glances that his dear little wife was stealing. He just decided to turn a blind eye towards her actions, letting her enjoy her time as she continued to work.


    A light knock on the door disturbed the duo and brought them out of their own thoughts which were occupied by their better halves. Stella looked up from the table, her eyes landing on Adam, only to find that he was already staring back at her.


    She was about to ask him who might be knocking at the door at this hour since except the security guards everyone else must have left by now as it was already late in the evening. The words got stuck at the back of her throat when she saw him silently asking her to stay quiet as he pressed his index finger against his thin lips.


    Adam got up from the couch and walked up to her desk, keeping his steps as light as he could. He walked around the desk and came to a halt when he was next to her. He pressed a number of keys and the screen on the monitor changed to a CCTV footage showing multiple angles and multiple corridors in small windows. He again pressed some other keys and the footage of the corridor before her office was pulled over the screen, showing in a much bigger window.


    There stood a man dressed in a completely black attire and a black leather briefcase in his hands. He didn''t move from his spot or tried to knock at the dark wood door again. He just stood there motionless. One could even mistake him as a mannequin which was mistakenly placed there.


    Pressing a few more keys, Adam zoomed in on his face and his facial expressions relaxed a little bit when he saw the familiar side profile. The man finally turned his head to his left and looked directly at the CCTV camera, nodding his head as if he was greeting the person on the other end.


    "It''s alright. I know him." Adam patted the back of her head as he walked to the door and opened it. He made sure to open it in such a way that he himself wasn''t exposed to the corridor before the office room. He wouldn''t like it if someone hacked into the company''s security system and got a proof about him being alive. He couldn''t let it happen, at least not yet.


    The man looked at the door which opened from the inside and walked inside in silence. He himself didn''t turn or speak, until the door was closed. He looked ahead towards the woman who was sitting behind the desk and gave her a firm nod.


    Before he could greet Stella, Adam stepped forward and blocked his view. He put forward his hand and motioned towards the bag, silently asking the man to pass it to him, to which the man complied right away before he turned around and walked out of the office without waiting for Adam to say anything.


    With the briefcase in his hands, Adam walked inside the resting lounge while Stella continued to look at the bizarre scenario which was unfolding right before her eyes. She wanted to get done with her work as soon as possible so that she could go back home and rest. But she could no longer focus on the emails as her curiosity was getting the best of her mind.


    Shrugging her shoulders, she gave up on her work and decided to follow Adam inside the room as he had left the door open on his way in. Once she was inside the confinements of the room, she closed the door and locked it from the inside. She heaves out a loud sigh as her eyes roamed around the room, looking for Adam. Her eyebrows furrowed when she didn''t see him inside.


    Before she could call for him, the bathroom door unlocked with a click sound and flew open. "What were you doing in there? And what was with all that staying quiet? And who was that man? How do you know him and how did he know where to find you?" She threw a series of questions his way, not bothering to lower her voice as she knew that the room was soundproof. It was one of the changes that she had made to the office.


    Her voice got lost when her eyes landed on his face which wasn''t not so familiar to her. She pursed his lips in a pout when she saw ''David'' walking towards her direction.


    "Hey, Boss." He addressed her in his own voice as he walked towards her with a smirk resting on his face.


    "Don''t call me Boss." Stella rolled her eyes at him as she began to walk towards him. She came to a halt right before him and wrapped her arms around his neck as she gazed into his gray orbs. "It feels so weird seeing you like this." She commented. It was indeed weird for him to see him like this after knowing about the truth. It was a good thing that he was using his own voice and was not wearing lenses to hide those gray irises of his, or else she wouldn''t have been able to even get close to him.


    "That man is from the same group I told you about earlier. He''s sort of the delivery guy and delvers me a new mask everytime I ruin the one I own." He chuckled lightly as she hugged her closer, wrapping his arms around her lower back.


    "They are definitely damn good with their job." Stella spoke up as her fingers traced over the mask. "Seems so real."


    "Don''t." Adam spoke up when he saw her moving her fingers away. He grabbed her hand and leaned his face in her open palm as he held it in place. "It''s just a really thin silicone mask with some nanobots inside it which let it adhere firmly to my real skin, making it seem so real. And those nanobots allow me to feel as well, even through the mask." He explained it to her as he rubbed his cheek against her palm.


    "My dear little wife, you have to get used to seeing me like this. It''s important to hide about me being alive from the person who''s behind all of this." He patted the top of her head before shifting the topic to something less intense.


    "By the way, you have made some changes around her. This room is soundproof, isn''t it?" He questioned her as he looked around the room. He was about to continue but stopped himself when he saw the lost look on her face as her eyes were fixed somewhere else. Following her line of sight, his eyes landed on a blinking red light which was barely the size of a medium sized watch dial.


    "What''s that?" He questioned her as he shifted his eyes from the small blinking bulb to the woman who was in his embrace.


    *******


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 Chapter 238 - Like A Thief

    "What''s that?" He questioned her as he shifted his eyes from the small blinking bulb to the woman who was in his embrace. Three horizontal lines graced his forehead when he saw his little elf frown as she kept her eyes fixed on the blinking bulb.


    "Stella?" He called her name softly in order to get her attention back but he failed. He continued to observe the change in her expressions as he tried to think of the most probable answer to his own question. As far as he could remember, there was nothing like that blinking red bulb earlier in this room when it belonged to him only.


    "The room is soundproof." He heard her speak and saw her shifting her gaze to his face. "When the changes were being done, I asked the architecture to contact one of the members of your gang as I wanted to make some special changes to it." She heaved out a sigh as her eyes moved to the closed door.


    "The soundproofing of the room was done in a way that not even a little amount of sound could escape out of the room. But doing that caused another problem to arise, no sound can enter the room either. So I had your man design that small bulb and pair it with some advance security system which activates after the door is locked. It would start blinking whenever someone enters my office when I am inside here." She continued as her eyes moved back to the bulb.


    Adam''s eyebrows shot up when he heard her explanation. "You mean someone just broke in your office." His words came out as a remark rather a question. Looking back at the door, he continued. "And whoever it was, he or she is still out there."


    Adam let go of her as he began to head towards the door. He wanted to see who the hell had this much courage to mess with the CEO of the Levinson''s Corp. He had only taken a step forward when he felt his elbow being tugged at. Turning his head, he saw his woman shaking his head in a no before she pointed towards his eyes.


    "I will see who''s the person. You stay in here." She instructed him as she began to walk towards the door and unlocked it as quietly as she could. After opening the door, she peeked outside only to see a man going around her desk as if he was looking for something.


    "Excuse me?" She called out softly as she tried to get the attention of the man. Though she was acting like her usual normal self, she was seething in anger inwardly. She wanted to bury the man alive who dared to mess with her.


    After sensing the presence of another person, the man stopped in his tracks and turned around. As soon as his eyes landed on Stella, the color from his face drained away, leaving it pale.


    "Boss?" He spoke up as a shiver ran down his spine when his eyes made contact with her glaring ones.


    Stella leaned against the door frame as she continued to stand in her earlier posting. "What are you doing here?" She questioned the man as she fought the urge to land a punch on his face. He was one of her employees. What troubled her was his presence in her office at this hour. What was he doing in here? And why sneak in like a thief.


    "Ah..I-I actually¡­. I was looking for a file." He answered her in his broken voice. "The file wasn''t supposed to be come up here but I mistakenly gave it to Ms. Bella in place of the right one." He began to explain it to her.


    "That''s fine! You can have the file." She paused for a little bit and continued when she saw him heaving out a long sigh. "But what are you doing up here, inside ''my'' office." She stressed on ''my'' as she continued to lazily look at him.


    "Umm¡­ I thought I could directly ask you as Ms. Bella has already left. I knocked at the door a couple of times but didn''t get a reply, I tried to move the door knob just to check if it was locked and it opened. Since I was already inside, I thought I should look for the file myself. I thought you must have left by now, or else I would have asked you." He scratched the back of his head as he answered her.


    "Did you find what you were looking for?" She raised her delicate eyebrows while rolling her eyes in annoyance. Her carefree and relaxed attitude was making the man worry more.


    "N-no. I just came inside before you¡­" He trailed off as he didn''t know what to say more.


    "I will send the file to your department tomorrow. The office hours have been over long before and it''s already late, you shouldn''t be here." She asked him as nicely as she could only to see the man nod his head in a yes. Just when the man was about to leave, a strong pair of arms wrapped around her waist with the palms resting in her belly.


    "What''s taking you so long?" A manly voice entered her ears which could belong to only one person, her personal assistant, David.


    She jumped in his arms as he pulled her back suddenly, such that her back was leaning against his bare muscular chest. She whipped her head back so that she could have a better look at his face. Her eyebrows furrowed when her eyes landed on his brown eyes.


    ''What the heck is he up to?'' She wanted to question him right away but had to stop herself from doing so. ''Just let this man leave, I will teach you a lesson myself.'' She thought inwardly as she gritted her teeth.


    Her eyes popped out of their sockets when she felt his lips being pressed against her neck where he placed a couple of kisses. She shifted her gaze to the man who was staring at the duo with a baffled expression as he stood rooted to the ground.


    *******


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 Chapter 239 - I Can Deal With Him

    Her eyes popped out of their sockets when she felt his lips being pressed against her neck where he placed a couple of kisses. She shifted her gaze to the man who was staring at the duo with a baffled expression as he stood rooted to the ground.


    The man had his eyes fixed on the couple while ''David'' was busy showering his affection over Stella. She tried to move out of his embrace but no matter how much force she used, he refused to budge as he continued to pepper kisses on her neck.


    "A-David." Stella gritted through her teeth as she glared at his face which was buried in her neck.


    Hearing her voice, the man looked up finally, his eyes landing on the intruder. "Who''s he?" He questioned the woman in his arms, still refusing to let go of her.


    "An employee, who decided to pop inside my office without my permission." She replied to him even though she didn''t want to. ''The hell does this man want now!''


    "Do you want me to deal with him, sweetheart?" He softly murmured next to her ear, earning a deathly glare from her.


    "It''s alright, I can deal with him." She replied to him before turning her attention back to her employee. "You will get the file tomorrow, I will ask Bella to pass it to you. You can leave now." She instructed the man to which he nodded and complied.


    "And keep your mouth shut about whatever you just saw." She added when the man was on his way out of the room only to get another nod from him before he continued to head outside.


    Stella stared at the closed door for a minute before shifting her attention back to her man. She definitely needed to teach this shameless man a lesson. She walked back inside the room and closed the room behind her back, not bothering herself to lock it this time as she highly doubted that someone would try to come in again for now.


    "What were you trying to achieve?" Stella began to scold him. "Why did you do all that deliberately?"


    "He was lying." Adam spoke up, this time in his own voice. "I am sure he is one of those spies whom I am trying to get some intel about." He stepped closer to her, trapping her in between the door and his own body as his arms rested on either side of her head.


    "I know that he was lying. It was written all across his face in bold, capital letters. But you shouldn''t have done that. What if he ends up telling about this whole to his superiors? Or worse, the media." Stella tried to push him away as she was in no mood to entertain him.


    "He won''t tell it to the media. I can guarantee you that. He will for sure, tell his Boss about this because the sole purpose of his presence here is spying on you. Maybe he saw my man coming in earlier with a briefcase and then walking out with his empty hands." Adam tried to coax her as he shared his thoughts with her. "He must have wanted to see what was inside the briefcase."


    "I get it, but why would someone want to spy on me?" She frowned as she questioned him.


    "My dear little wifey, why would someone want to kill me? There''s only one thing they could get if they succeed in it, you." He gazed into her hazel orbs. "Stella, whoever turned the entire project site into rubble, had only one motif. And that was to kick me out of their path, so that they could have my most favorite person." He caressed her right cheek.


    "And their plan got ruined when the news about me taking over the company as your lawfully wedded wife made into the headlines." Stella spoke up, completing his words.


    She saw him nod his head before he continued again. "Now, the very same person has got the company infiltrated with his own men. The only purpose of their existence is to keep an eye on you and pass on every single information they could gather about you and your whereabouts to their Boss."


    "And if I am not wrong, at least one of them must have seen ''David'' carrying you in here and they passed it on. What I did earlier was to make sure that the man tell his Boss that he saw you in David''s arm." He took a pause and took in a deep breath.


    A smirk embraced Stella''s lips as she entwined her hands around his neck. "What''s better way to force a man to show himself than jealousy? He would lose his mind once he gets to know that even after he killed my husband, he still cannot have me. And here I am enjoying my life with another man." She pressed her upper body against his exposed torso.


    Adam gulped down a mouthful of saliva as he looked at the little seductress in his arms.


    "Do you know a pregnant woman can get turned on easily because of the hormonal changes taking place in her body?" She questioned him and got a nod in response. "Good that you know." The corners of her lips turned upwards as she traced a finger across his times chest. Her smile deepened when she saw his chest muscles becoming taut as a result of her teasing.


    "But every time I look at this face, I don''t feel so turned on. It''s like the whole fire is being extinguished by some¡­ dry ice." She pursed her lips in a pout as she demanded him. "Get rid of this mask. I want my handsome hubby back." She looked up at him and fluttered her thick eyelashes.


    *******


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 Chapter 240 - Dont Tempt Me

    "But every time I look at this face, I don''t feel so turned on. It''s like the whole fire is being extinguished by some¡­ dry ice." She pursed her lips in a pout as she demanded him. "Get rid of this mask. I want my handsome hubby back." She looked up at him and fluttered her thick eyelashes.


    "Damn, woman!" Adam exclaimed as he gazed at his little elf. "I didn''t know that my little elf could even bear claws. I love this wild side of yours." He exclaimed as one corner of his lips turned up, giving her a sinister smile. "But is it okay if you do it in pregnancy?" He couldn''t help himself but ask.


    "Well, I haven''t talked about it to my doctor yet. But we could ask her during my next visit. It''s on coming Sunday." Stella gave him a thoughtful look before her expressions went back to her earlier wicked ones. "But who said that we can only have fun while doing that. I mean, you can please me and I can please you." She added the latter part of the sentence as her hand traveled over his bare abdomen and further down. Placing her palm over his member, she began to caress it, earning a groan from its owner.


    "Stella!" Adam clenched his jaw tightly, his veins becoming visible on either side of forehead. He warned her not to tease him any longer. He was having a hard time trying to keep the beast inside him on leash.


    Being away from his little elf for a little over a month, didn''t help in taming the demon inside him. Rather it made it crave for her body more and more with each day passing. He wanted to explore the depths of her core once again, have a sip of her sweet nectar, hear her moan his name in her dazed state whilst he pour every ounce of passion he had in his body inside of her. He wanted to mark her in places that she wouldn''t be able to hide from all those prying eyes.


    "I am warning you, sweetheart. Don''t tempt me." He spoke seductively next to her ear in his husky voice. His words were followed by a groan which resonated inside her core, sending tingles of desire running throughout her body. "I don''t think that I will be able to hold myself back any longer." He added as his prying hands found their way inside her loose sweatshirt and began to caress her curves.


    Using her hand which was resting at his nape, she pulled his face down. "Mask, off, now." She purred closed to his lips, demanding from his to get rid off the mask. It wasn''t only Adam who was having a hard time in keeping his desires in check.


    "Yes, Ma''am." Giving into the demands of his little seductress, he breathed out into her ear. Placing a peck on the side of her head, he walked away from her and headed towards the bathroom to get the mask off.


    Stella kept staring at his departing figure until he disappeared from her line of sight completely. A sinister smile crept up on her face as she began to saunter over to the small walk-in closet. Her mind running a number of possibilities and scenarios as she thought about different ways to make it more ''interesting''.


    Initially, She only planned to seduce him and leave him hanging as a punishment for his earlier tactics. Even though what he did was sort of necessary, but how could she let him out this easily. But who knew her plan would backfire and she herself would end up being seduced by the handsome devil who was her man. And now, every inch of her body was craving for his touch.


    She stepped inside the closet, her eyes lingering around the small space as she tried to look for something particular. ''Looks like I will finally get to wear it.'' She thought inwardly as she began to hum a song. It took her a minute or two to finally found what she was looking for. Without bothering herself to shut down the door to the closet, she hurriedly changed her clothes.


    Two minutes later, she walked out of the walk-in closet with a jump in her step. Her eyes wandered around the room to check whether or not Adam was out. She heaved out a long sigh when she found out that the room was still empty. With light steps, she walked towards the control panel of the room and turned down the regulator a bit, dimming the lights.


    As soon as she was done with it, a light click sound made her shift her attention towards the bathroom door which was slightly ajar. She giggled lightly while anticipating his response and headed towards the king sized bed. She settled herself down on the satin covered mattress after making sure that she was facing towards the bathroom door. She hurriedly positioned herself and waited for her man to come out.


    The door to the bathroom opened and Adam stepped out as he was busy drying off his face using a small face towel. As soon as he removed the towel off his face, his eyebrows furrowed as his eyes roamed around the room before resting on the woman was patiently waiting for him on the bed.


    His eyes trailed over her figure as he enjoyed the sight before him. "F***." He cursed under his breath as his mind register her attire.


    Stella was sitting on the edge of the bed with her bare legs dangling off the bed which were interlaced together. She was wearing a thick black fur coat which was resting way below her shoulders. Her one hand was holding it in its place, not letting the two sides to fall apart, while her other hand was resting on the mattress as it was hoisting her body up.


    Almost half of her cleavage were exposed along with the upper portion of her two fleshy mounds. He could tell that she wasn''t wearing any bra under the coat and it piqued his curiosity as his sinful eyes trailed down to her crossed legs.


    Under his heated gaze, her breathing was becoming heavier and heavier with each passing second. She bit down on her lower lip as she slowly began to part her legs after uncrossing them. A low groan was heard which was followed by a towel being thrown somewhere on the ground.


    Adam gulped down a mouthful of saliva as he tried to drench his dry throat, but it seemed to be of no help in quenching his thirst. His gaze darkened as he continued to gaze in between her slightly parted legs. He wanted his eyes to be blessed by the sight of her wet, pink folds. But to his dismay, what waited for his eyes was a black lacy underwear with a wet spot in its center.


    *******


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 Chapter 241 - My Little Vixen

    *WARNING! The chapter contains R-18 content. You guys know the drill*


    Adam gulped down a mouthful of saliva as he tried to drench his dry throat, but it seemed to be of no help in quenching his thirst. His gaze darkened as he continued to gaze in between her slightly parted legs. He wanted his eyes to be blessed by the sight of her wet, pink folds. But to his dismay, what waited for his eyes was a black lacy underwear with a wet spot in its center.


    Even though the thin lacy net didn''t leave much for his imagination, he still hated it''s presence there. With his darkened gaze set on his woman, he slowly walked up to the bed. His steps came to a stop when he was standing right before her. Getting down on his right knee, he rested both his hands on her either of her knees. Using a little amount of force, he parted he her legs apart as he kept his eyes fixed on her flushed face.


    His breathing grew heavier, matching the rhythm of her breathing as his gray orbs kept staring at her hazel ones. After what seemed like an eternity, he finally shifted his eyes, trailing them down her exposed cleaved and then to her parted legs.


    A gasp escaped his lips when his eyes landed on the wet spot. He could see the wet folds of her womanhood peeping from either side of her lacy thong. "My little vixen." The word escaped her lips as his eyes continued to worship her body as his mind heart continued to praise the goddess who was sitting before him.


    The way he addressed her, and that luscious texture of his husky voice which was laced with lust for his better half, sent pleasurable shivers running down her spine as each and every single hair on her body stood up straight, seeking for his attention.


    "Let''s get rid of this." He murmured seductively as he pointed his chin towards the wet piece of clothing which was obstructing his view. Moving his fingers from her knees to her ankles, he slowly traced them back up, taking his own time. Instead of stopping his movements when he reached her knees, he continued to move them up, tracing them over her inner thighs.


    "Mmmm." A low moan escaped her lips as she felt something warm creeping out of her body, knowing fully well that it was her own juices. She could feel her blood rushing to her core. The pulsating rosy bud which was hidden by a thin piece of cloth, was driving her crazy as it begged to be touched by his calloused fingers.


    "Being inpatient, are we now?" He chuckled lightly, the sound driving her senses further haywire as it resonated within her core.


    "Damn hormones." She gritted her teeth when his fingers finally found their way to the thin waistband of her underwear.


    "Well, I don''t mind your hormones, my baby girl." Adam looked up at her while hooking his fingers in her lacy underwear. With one swift move, he pulled them down. After getting her feet out of them, he brought it closer to his face and took in a long whiff. The sweet scent of her juices made its way up his nose and shook the demon in him, forcing him to break down the shackles which were keeping him locked down.


    As her eyes observed his actions, her already flushed face turned crimson red as blood rushed up her ears. It wouldn''t be a wonder if she ended up having a nosebleed at the moment.


    Putting her underwear in the back pocket of his jeans, he stood up. Without blinking once, he swept her off the bed and carried her in his arms. He climbed up on the bed using his knees and made her rest in the center of the bed, carefully placing her head on a pillow. His actions touched her heart on a deeper level. Even during their activities of passion, he always placed her comfort on top of his priority list.


    As she was lost in her own thoughts, her hold on the fur coat loosened, making it slip through her fingers. As Adam leaned back to have a proper look at his beloved little elf, he felt his soul leaving his body. Her exposed body was no less than a delectable feast for his eyes. His darkened orbs roamed over figure once again, but this time without the shaggy coat obstructing his view.


    His eyes lingered more than usual over the two mounds of flesh, standing all tall and proud before him. The rosy brown pearl on top of each mound, was already hardened. No wonder he found them a bit changed earlier. His fingers were itching to touch them and hold them, but he didn''t want to hasten it up. He would take his own sweet time to please his woman.


    "I have never seen anything more beautiful than you, my love." He muttered softly as his eyes lingered over her figure. Her milky, smooth skin against the contrasting black fur coat, was no less than a piece of exquisite art to him.


    He leaned in with his hands resting on either side of her head and began to shower feather like kisses on her lips. An annoyed groan made its way to his ears, making him chuckle. He was doing it on purpose. Ignoring her frustrated groans he continued to pepper kisses on her lips, one after the other.


    Stella knew what was going on in that devilish mind of his and decided to take things in her own hands. Her hands moved to his bare chest and crawled up, until they entwined around his neck. Using her arms, she pulled his face closer to her own and captured his lips in between her teeth before he could move them away. Grazing her teeth over his lower lip, she began to suck on it, not letting it leave her hold.


    Adam began to reciprocate her actions, alternating between her upper and lower lip. He felt her slick tongue seeking for his permission to enter in his mouth which he willingly granted her. How could he not give into the demands of his wife. Even if he got labeled as a wife slave, he wouldn''t mind it.


    He groaned when he felt her unskilled tongue trying to explore his mouth. He resisted the urge to dominate her as he wanted her to have it her way, at least for now. The blood of his entire body rushed towards his member, pooling in between his legs as her tongue grazed against his. All of his rationality left his body as he began to move his tongue, pushing hers back into her mouth as he began to explore the sweet cavern while sucking onto her lips.


    "Damn!" He cursed under his breath when he finally let go of her lips, allowing her to breathe. Before she could catch up on her breath, his skillful lips found their way to her neck and trailed down to her curvy collarbones, leaving glaring red marks in their tracks. He alternated his actions between sucking and licking, eventually grazing a spot before he moved onto the next one.


    After a whole two minutes of sucking and licking, his eyes finally landed on her bosom. His lips curled up in a lopsided grin as his hand cupped one of the mounds whilst his mouth focused on its twin. A gasp escaped her swollen lips as he blew some cold air on the already hardened pearl before his lips latched onto it.


    His tongue swirled around the rosy pearls as his fingers toyed with it''s twin, replicating the movements of his tongue. He sucked on her nub like a baby who was hungry for his mother''s nutritious milk while his hand cupped the other one, treating it like a stress ball. He was loving the way her breast filled his palm as if they were meant for each other.


    "Your hormones are doing a damn good job, my love." He whispered against her rosy nub which had turned raw as a result of his assault.


    An annoyed groan escaped her lips as she began to miss the warm feeling which was engulfing her perky nipple. "Don''t stop." She managed to speak in her hazy state. Her eyes were clenched tightly, a number of years glistening at the corners as she allowed herself to bathe in the pleasure that he was giving her.


    "As you say, my lady." Adam muttered under his breath and complied to her demands but this time he switched the position of his palm and lips, and continued to provide his woman with pleasure which was rewarded by her faint moans which were driving his mind insane, flaming his desires.


    *******


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 Chapter 242 - Let Me Make Up To You

    *WARNING! The chapter contains R-18 content. You guys know the drill.*


    "As you say, my lady." Adam muttered under his breath and complied to her demands but this time he switched the position of his palm and lips, and continued to provide his woman with pleasure which was rewarded by her faint moans which were driving his mind insane, flaming his desires.


    After blessing her bosom with his heated passion, he leaned his back as to have a better view of his artwork. A proud smirk embraced his lips as his eyes landed on the bright glaring marks which adorned her milky white skin. Watching her chest rise and fall as she breathed haphazardly, lost in her own delirium of pleasure, his heart bloomed with great joy.


    Shaking off his thoughts, he shifted his attention back to the woman who was laying down under him, all ready to be savoured by him as he pleased. His thin cold lips landed right in the center of her rib cage, below her two fleshy mounds. He began to move further south, following his previous pattern of alternating between kissing, sucking and grazing her skin as he left the marks of his presence in his trail.


    He stopped when he was right above her pubic area and leaned a bit back to have a good, up close look of her core which was trimmed properly. His gazed darkened looking at the glistening folds as more and more of her sweet nectar oozed from the pink folds of her womanhood.


    Using two of his fingers, he parted the lips of her womanhood so that he could have better access to her wet core. He gulped down as his gray orbs watch the pink, fleshy folds glistening under the dim lights of the room. His eyes had already adjusted themselves to the low lighting, making him able to see the droplets of her juices which were waiting to be licked by him.


    Leaning his face closer to her womanhood, he took a long sniff of her sweet scent before he began to lick on his favorite juice. His breathing grew heavier with each lap as he tasted her sweet nectar. He could hear her moaning his name in her elated state as more and more of her juices kept flowing out of her core.


    After he was done licking her pink folds clean, he focused his attention on the pulsating pink bud which was craving for his touch. Giving the small bud a lick, he grazed his teeth over it, making the lady moan loudly. Pleased by her response, he continued to graze it using his teeth, making it more sensitive with each attempt of his assault.


    "A-Adam." Stella moaned softly as he continued to toy with the most sensitive part of her body. She wanted her misery to end, but at the same time, she wanted him to continue pleasing her body.


    "Yes, my love." He breathed out against her core, his warm breath brushing against her already sensitized core.


    "P-please¡­." She tried to speak up but her words trailed off as he continued to please her.


    "Please what?" He questioned her as he took a break before continuing to play with the swollen bud. This time, he started to suck on it as he waited for her answer, knowing fully well that she was in no condition to even breathe, let alone answer him.


    "Adam." Stella groaned in annoyance as her moans were becoming louder and louder under his ministrations as pleasure seeped through every inch of her body.


    "Oh baby! What would I do with you?" Adam chuckled to himself as he finally gave her what she wanted. While his tongue continued to flick her clit, he moved his arms under her legs, making them rest right below her hips. Flexing his muscles, he lifted her delectable arse off the bed, placing her dainty legs over his shoulders.


    "The hell¡­.." The words barely left her lips when he thrusted his treacherous tongue inside her core, taking her by surprise. He buried his tongue inside her, giving her some time of barely a minute to get her senses straight before he began to shatter them again.


    Thrusting his tongue in and out of her core, he began to savor the heated moment as he opted to move slowly rather than being haste. But a frustrated groan escaping from the lips of his woman, made his movements much faster. As he continued to please her, the intensity of her moans kept increasing, matching with the rhythm of his thrusts.


    Stella let him do as he pleased as she could feel the walls clenching around his intruding tongue. She knew she was close to finding her release. Her hands which were resting on either side of her body, holding on to the sheets, found their way to his head which was buried in between her thighs. Her fingers entwined around the locks of his hair as she held onto him.


    She clenched her jaw tightly and threw her head back, keeping her eyes closed. Her fingers which were playing around with his hair, shoved his face further in between her legs.


    Adam continued to move his expert tongue inside her as one of his hands made its way to her clit and began to fiddle with it. Holding the pink bud in between his thumb and index finger, he rolled it while applying pressure on it while continuing the assault of his tongue.


    He could feel her walls clenching around his tongue as her orgasm built up. Just as he predicted, Stella moaned his name loudly as she squirted out more of her juices right over his tongue. Even though she had found her release, the man refused to stop his movements as he lapped on her nectar, licking her folds clean. There was no way he would let a single drop of it go to waste.


    Stella continued to stare at the ceiling as pleasurable shivers crawled up on her body, starting from her core. A few years slid down from the corners of her eyes to the side of her face, eventually landing on soft pillow.


    Not a single ounce of energy was left in her body, but the man down there refused to take a step back and allow her to gather her senses back. After what seemed like an eternity to her ecstatic self, he finally stopped after he was done licking every last drop of her delectable, sweet nectar.


    He carefully placed her legs down and slowly crept up on her body, making sure not to put any pressure on her petite figure. His lips curled up in a devilish smile as his eyes rested on her flushed face. He lightly tapped on her forehead with his flat palm as he wiped off the little glistening beads of sweat.


    "Don''t tell me you are already tired?" He teased her while focusing on her crimson face. His fingers trailed from her forehead to the side of her face as he wiped off the remaining traces of tears using his thumb.


    "No!" She could only reply him with a single word as she still needed some time to get her breathing to normal.


    "I can see that." Adam pinched the top of her nose as he shifted on his left slightly. His fingers found their way to the silky locks of her dark brown hair and began to wander off around them. He continued to play with her hair, twirling them around his fingers as he gave her some time to her breathing back to normal.


    A couple of minutes later, Stella slightly shifted in bed and gazed into his eyes which were lost somewhere else. "It''s your turn now." Her hands moved down to his crotch. Just when she was about to grab onto his member from over the thick fabric of his pants, a muscular arm stopped her prying hand, pinning it above her head.


    Adma moved back to his earlier position, hovering above her as he gave a grin. "You will be the only one getting turns tonight." His words made her frown in confusion, but before she could ask him about the meaning behind his words, he spoke up again. "Let me make up to you for the past one month."


    He breathed in as his hand trailed down back to her folds. But this time it wasn''t his tongue which began to fondle the pink folds of her womanhood. Instead, it was his calloused fingers which were rubbing against the tender bud. Stella was about to argue with him but the words of resistance got stuck at the back of her throat when his finger suddenly entered her opening of her cavern without any prior notice.


    *******


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 Chapter 243 - My Man (1)

    "Do I have to attend the banquet?" Wilson groaned in annoyance as he spoke into his phone''s speaker.  He had just come out of the operation theater after performing a twelve hours long major surgery. The poor man had not even changed out of his scrubs and here was, being invited to a banquet.


    If it wasn''t for Blythe, he wouldn''t have bothered to even pick up the call. He was about to change into his casual clothes and have some sleep, but his plans flew right out of the window after hearing the demands of his man.


    "Oh! Come on. It''s a party that I am throwing in celebration of our recent project with your sister-in-law''s company." Blythe replied to him.


    Wilson shook his head in helplessness as he could hear the annoyance in his voice. "I just got out of the operation theater, and I haven''t slept a wink in the last twenty-four hours." He tried to make him understand his point, but he failed in doing so.


    "You can take a nap for an hour and then drag yourself here. You don''t have to dress up formally, just bring yourself and I will be more than happy." Blythe tried his best to make him say yes. "Moreover, we haven''t met in so long." He played his last card knowing full well that Wilson could argue him over it.


    "F***!" Wilson cursed at him loudly before heaving out a long sigh. "Alright, I will be there. But I at least need to sleep for two hours, so I might be a little late." He continued only to get a couple of yes from him. Even by the sound of his yeses, he could tell how excited he was to meet him.


    He wouldn''t have agreed to him if it wasn''t for his last remark. They have actually not met in the last two weeks for real as Blythe was always busy running his company, whereas he was busy with his patients and surgeries. His schedule was too tightly packed that he barely got any time to chat with him over the phone.


    "I will forward you the details about the venue. See you there, my love." Blythe''s voice made him come out his own thoughts. Just as he was about to reply to him he heard a faint sound of him blowing a kiss into the phone''s speaker before he disconnected the call, not waiting for his reply.


    Wilson chuckled lightly to himself as he stared at his phone''s screen. Just as he was about to put it away, the screen lit up again, showing a text message which was from Blythe. He clicked on the notification and saw the context of his text before switching his phone off.


    ''He sure was in a hurry.'' He thought inwardly as he recalled the location of the banquet which was mentioned in it. A faint smile embraced his lips as his thoughts drifted back to the last line which had some hugs and kisses for him. Shaking his head in helplessness, he began to head towards the changing area.


    ---------


    Crystal chandeliers glimmered under the pale lights as flashes of bright white light tried to capture the glitz and glamour of the venue, more specifically, the high profile guests which were invited to the banquet. Only a number of media firms were invited, and they were given specific instructions which needed to be met if they want to be invited again in the future ceremonies held by the Jamesons.


    The center of attention was the man who was dressed in an all black three piece outfit. The only white his attire had, was the button down shirt which was peeping through in between the lapels of his coat. A rustic golden clip which was in the shape of an anchor, was pinned on the left side of his coat, giving his attire a majestic look.


    A woman who was dressed in an all black gown, was clinging to his left arm with her hands tightly wrapped around his biceps. The matching sequences on her dress glimmered as she moved around with him. They look no less than a couple who was madly in love.


    The man''s eyes roamed around the entire area as he looked for a certain someone. It had already been two hours since the banquet started and there was still no sign of him. He had tried to give him a call, but to his dismay, the number was switched off.


    ''You¡­.'' He was about to curse the person inwardly for being so late, but his thoughts trailed off when his eyes landed on the entrance.


    Wilson entered the wide hall with a bored expression on his face. The dark circles around his eyes were enough of a proof about his lack of sleep, but they didn''t make him look any less handsome. He was wearing a dark persian blue two piece suit, paired with an off-white button down shirt. A ship''s wheel shaped pin was fastened on his breast pocket. It was in the same shade as Blythe''s anchor, showing that the two pins were from the same collection.


    His eyes roamed around the hall before landing right on Blythe''s face who was on the other side of the hall. The corner of his lips turned slightly upwards as a faint smile graced his lips. Though it didn''t last for long when his eyes trailed off to the woman next to him. His expression darkened at the sight before him but his steps continued to lead him to the other end of the hall where they were standing, surrounded by guests.


    A frown marred Blythe''s forehead as he looked at Wilson''s darkened expressions. He shifted leaned his head towards the woman who was clinging to his arms and whispered something softly while keeping his eyes fixed on him.


    "Congratulations, Mr. Blythe." Wilson came to a stop before him and put his hand forward.


    "Thank you for coming." Blythe replied to him while giving his extended hand a firm shake.


    Wilson just hummed in response as he retracted his hand right away, not giving him a chance to hold onto it any longer. He was angry at him, a little pissed off as well. This man had forced him to come to the banquet by emotionally blackmailing him that they hadn''t met in so long. And now, here he was with another woman in his arms.


    ''If only my sister-in-law was here, she would have definitely taught him a lesson for messing with him.'' He thought to himself.


    "Oh my God! What a coincidence?" The clingy woman spoke up as she pointed towards his pin. "My darling Blythe is wearing one of these as well and it perfectly matches with your." She excitedly clapped her hands a little as she pressed her big bosom against Blythe''s arm.


    William looked at her figure with no interest and hummed lightly, without even looking at towards Blythe. "I have met you and wished you already, so I better leave now." He spoke up flatly and turned around. A sharp pang shot up in his chest as he walked away from the couple.


    ''He didn''t even bother to ask me to stay.'' He inwardly chuckled as he pitied himself. ''Of course he didn''t, why would he choose you over that stunning beauty?'' He nagged himself for even thinking that he would at least try to stop him from leaving so early.


    He was lost in his own thoughts when a hand grabbed onto his arm, stopping him in his tracks. He turned his head around to have a look at the person only to find that it was Blythe.


    "Is this how you treat your man?" Blythe questioned him as he glared at him angrily.


    "Is that how you treat ''your'' man?" Wilson threw his own words at him while pointing at the lady who was standing way behind him, talking to a group of girls.


    Blythe''s face fell down as he looked at his aggrieved expressions. "You know that my family doesn''t know about me being bisexual." He took a step towards him as he continued to hold his arm, not allowing him to escape his grip. "They are the one who arenaged her for me as a partner for tonight. I swear I didn''t know about this arrangement when I called you." He gave him a sad smile. "I am sorry."


    Wilson heaved out a tired sigh as he shook his head sideways. "You don''t have to apologize to me. I can understand. But I really have to leave for the hospital. I need to check on the patient on whom I performed the surgery earlier." Wilson tried to shook his hand off but the man before him didn''t budge.


    *******


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 Chapter 244 - My Man (2)

    Wilson heaved out a tired sigh as he shook his head sideways. "You don''t have to apologize to me. I can understand. But I really have to leave for the hospital. I need to check on the patient on whom I performed the surgery earlier." Wilson tried to shook his hand off but the man before him didn''t budge.


    "Blythe, I really have to leave." Wilson glared at him as he lowered his voice down as more and more people were looking their way. No one in their right mind would leave a chance to stare at two handsome hunks.


    Blythe shook his head in a no as he refused to let go for his arm. Even though Wilson had tall stature and a broad figure, his body couldn''t be considered as muscular as the man hardly ever get a chance to hit the gym. No matter how much force he used, it was nothing when compared with Blythe''s.


    "Blythe. People are looking at us. I am sure your parents won''t appreciate you creating a ruckus here." Wilson clenched his jaw as he tried his best to loosen his grip around his lower arm.


    "Look at this face." He took another step in his direction, pointing the index finger of his free hand towards himself. "Does it look like that I give a single fuck about my parents?"


    Wilson let out a sarcastic laugh and nodded his head in a yes as he pointed his chin in the same direction where the woman was standing. "It sure looked like it."


    "I swear I didn''t have a clue about it. I was planning to escape this banquet with you after you arrive." Blythe tried to explain his side of the story, but Wilson refused to even listen to him.


    "You weren''t particularly pushing her away from yourself either. Don''t lie to me now that you weren''t enjoying the feeling of her big breasts pressing against your arm." Wilson added as he took a step towards him. Their faces were merely a few inches away from each other as their heights were on par.


    "Are you getting jealous?" Blythe raised an eyebrow at him as he leaned his face slightly in.


    "Jealous my ass." Wilson gritted through his teeth.


    Blythe raised an arm and patted the top of his head as if he was trying to coax a little child. "You are right. That was no way I should treat my man." He took a brief pause and his palm which was resting on top of his head, slid down to his nape, his fingers curling around as he held his neck in place.


    He gazed into his eyes as he leaned in. "This is the way I should be treating ''my man''." He whispered lightly before his lips before crashing his thin lips against his cold ones. He began to slowly move his lips over his as Wilson continued to stand rooted on the spot in shock. He only came back to his senses when he felt his tongue moving over his lips as it seeked for his permission which Wilson granted to him willing.


    Stepping closer to him, his hands grabbed onto the lapels of his black coat as he pulled his body towards him. Slowly, he began to reciprocate his actions as a couple of loud gasps resonated throughout the vast hall.


    In between the low murmurs and whisperings, a loud voice was heard. "What is going on here?" A man who was in his late fifties, walked towards the center of the hall where the two handsome hunks were busy savoring each other as their tongues grazed against each other, fighting for dominance.


    "What is going on here?" He spoke up again when he was right before the two entwined bodies who were too engaged to even notice his presence. He tapped his wooden cane on the floor a couple of times as anger seeped through out his body.


    The sound of multiple taps resonated throughout the hall, the low whispers dying down as silence engulfed the entire area. A couple of people even took a couple of steps back as they looked at the face of the man who was seething with anger. The echoing sound of the cane being struck against the wooden floor, even managed to get the attention of the two men.


    Blythe was about to yell at the person who dared to interrupt their moment, but stopped himself when he saw the familiar face. "Hey, Dad." He scratched the back of his sheepishly as he greeted his father.


    "What was with that atrocious behavior of yours earlier?" His father roared as he tried to avoid looking directly into his glaring eyes. He was about to apologise to him, but his words died down at the back of his throat when he saw Wilson stepping forward. He walked ahead of him and stood before him, as if protecting him from the threatening glares that his father was throwing his way.


    "I am sorry for what happened, Mr. Jameson. I am the one to blame for it. There''s no need for you to raise your voice at your son." Wilson spoke as he bowed his head a little and apologized to him.


    One of the reasons for Blythe to keep his sexuality a secret even from his own family, was his father''s strictness. He was one of those people who still held onto those old beliefs that it was only a man and a woman who was supposed to be together. And any kind of relationship between the same gender, was considered no less than a sin in his eyes.


    There was no way, Wilson would let him even raise his voice on Blythe and humiliate him before all these people. He was ready to place himself in the line of fire if it meant saving Blythe his pride before his family.


    "I apologize for my behavior. He didn''t have any say in this, it''s me who likes him. But it''s only me." He continued as he looked at the fuming man before him. Before he could continue further, two arms wrapped around his waist and pulled him back, making his back land against a sturdy chest. He felt his left shoulder being pushed down as a face rested over it.


    "You don''t have to apologize to him, or two anyone." Blythe whispered next to his ear, turning a bling eye to his father. Keeping his sexual preferences a secret was one thing, and letting Wilson take the bullet for his public display of affection was another. And the latter was definitely off the list.


    "Dad!" He called out to his father without shifting his eyes away from the handsome face of his boyfriend. "Meet Wilson Steiner, my boyfriend. And your future son-in-law." After introducing the man in his arms, he shifted his attention to his father.


    The man was beginning to see red everywhere as his mind registered the words which his son had just uttered before the whole lot of people.


    "What nonsense is this?" He questioned Blythe while pointing the end of his cane towards him. "Is this some sort of prank?"


    "Do you think I would kiss a man in front of these many people, just to pull a prank on you?" Blythe gave him a look which clearly questioned his sanity. "Whatever you saw earlier, was my doing. I was trying to make it up to my man as he was sad after seeing me with that girl. How can I stand to see my man sad over such a measly woman whose name I don''t even remember."


    "Blythe." Wilson, who was standing quietly so far as he listened to his every word, finally spoke up. "You don''t have to do this." He muttered softly under his breath for only him to hear.


    "No, you are right. I don''t have to do this." Blythe gave him a bright smile before he continued. "But I want to do this. I want to do this for you, for us. I want to yell and tell the whole world that you are mine, and only mine." He placed a small peck over his lips before shifting his attention back to his father.


    "So, where were we?" He questioned himself and widened his eyes when he finally remembered. "Whatever you saw and heard me saying, was the reality. Your only son is bisexual. And he has a thing for the man he''s currently clinging to." He gave his father the same bright smile which he gave earlier to Wilson. "It''s up to you whether or not you accept me the way I am." He shrugged his shoulders as he continued to keep his hold around Wilson firm.


    *******


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 Chapter 245 - Its My Turn To Serve You Now

    *WARNING! The chapter contains some R-16/R-18 content. Underage readers can skip the chapter after the dotted line.*


    Feeling some weight on her left shoulder, Stella stirred up in her sleep and tried to shift on her right, but the pressure didn''t allow her to do so. A low groan escaped her lips as her eyelashes fluttered for a little while before they opened.


    She turned her head to her left only to find that the weight was a certain someone''s face resting over her shoulder. She could tell from the numbness in her shoulder that his face had been resting there for quite some time now. She tried to shift but the way his arms were entwined around her body, keeping it in place made it hard for her.


    After trying a couple of times more to escape his firm hold and giving it her best shot while keeping her movements as minimal, she let out a frustrated sigh and gave up. The poor girl couldn''t even move her arms as one was buried under his neck as his face rested on her left shoulder and the other one was stuck in his embrace. She shook her head in helplessness as she gazed down at her big baby who was clinging on to her body as if she would run away if he didn''t do that.


    ''Looks like we are stuck here for a while longer.'' She thought to herself. She could have used more force and escape his arms but she didn''t as it would have caused him to wake up. And she would hate herself for that.


    After deciding to let him enjoy his deep slumber, her eyes began to roam around the room before they widened in shock as a thought popped up in her mind. Their entwined bodies were completely naked. A deep blush crept up on her cheeks as her thoughts drifted off to last night''s activities.


    The man who was sleeping peacefully next to her, wasn''t so calm last night. He had made her cum so many times that she couldn''t even count it on her fingers, including her toes. And every single time she came, he had licked every single drop of her juices. He only stopped when her body was too tired to cope up with her assault. It was her sleepy eyes on which he took pity and let her rest.


    She was too tired to reciprocate his actions and please him or his little member down there which was standing like a soldier in attention mode throughout their activities. It was only her touch which could provide it with some relief. But the lady was too tired to even pay attention to the throbbing rod and she fell asleep right after enjoying herself.


    Her body began to heat up as she recalled last night''s activities. The only thought which kept popping up in her mind was about their bodies being naked. As a result of the constant reminder of her nagging mind, she was now too focused on their bodies, especially where his bare skin was in contact with hers.


    She could feel a palm being pressed against her belly, his fingers spread over the area in a protective stance. Her heart melted as warmth began to spread through her body. Even in his sleep, he was so possessive and protective towards her and their babies. ''He will definitely make a good father.'' She thought inwardly as a faint smile crept up on her face.


    The warmth that was engulfing her body was soon replaced by something more hot when she felt a rod like structure being pressed to the side of her body as Adam moved in his sleep and hugged her closer.


    Taking in a couple of long breaths, she tried to calm herself down but it didn''t help him even a little bit. She could feel the temperature of her body rising as several naughty thoughts began to corrupt her mind. ''Damn! When did I become such a pervert.'' She scolded herself as she tried to think of a way to move herself away. If she continued to stick to his body like this for any longer, she might do something which she would definitely regret later on.


    "Adam?" She softly called out at last after several failed attempts to move away from him.


    The man stirred up in his sleep ever so slightly, giving her a hope that he might wake up finally. "Adam?" She called again when he stopped moving, this time raising her voice a little more.


    A low hum made its way into her ears as a response, but the man didn''t move from his position.


    "I need to eat. I am famished." She gave out an excuse. There was no way she was going to tell him the truth for why she wanted to jump out of bed.


    "Just a little longer." The man groaned in his husky voice sending delightful tingles running down her skin.


    "Adam. I really am famished." She tried to reason with him as she shook him off her shoulder and retracted her arm which was resting under the nape of his neck. In her hurry to get herself away from the handsome hunk, she forgot about her nakedness and got out of the covers after untangling her legs and arms from his.


    It was only when the sudden drop in temperature made the hairs on her body stand, that she realized about it. In her haste to cover herself, she pulled the duvet which was pooling around her lower body and wrapped it around herself.


    All this while, a pair of gray eyes were observing her movements, not bothering to blink even once as if they were afraid to miss even a single moment of her awkward state. A heartfelt chuckle resonated through the silence of the room, bringing her attention back to the man who was still lying in his earlier position.


    --------


    A shock settled on her mind when she saw him lying down in all his naked glory as he continued to chuckle with both of his hands resting on his stomach. Her eyes shifted from his naked figure to the duvet which was wrapped around her before they went back to him, this time lingering on his body for long. Her treacherous eyes couldn''t control themselves and trailed off from his toned abs, down to the deep V below his navel.


    There she saw his member standing in between his legs, tall and proud. A warmth began to pool around her lower abdomen as she failed to shift her eyes from his hardened rod. Gulping a mouthful of saliva, she made her way towards it.


    Adam was so busy enjoying himself at her absence of mind that he didn''t notice her moving closer to him on all her fours. It was only when she got rid of the duvet and straddled him, that he realized what she was up to.


    "Stella, don''t." He glared at her when saw her position his rod in between her legs only to be hushed by him. He knew that she wasn''t that stupid enough to actually put his hardened member inside in her current state, but he couldn''t deny the fact that her actions had made him curious.


    "Last night, you pleased me. It''s my turn to serve you now." She spoke up as she positioned the head of his penis in between the skin folds of her womanhood and began to move over him. Her slender fingers curled around his long shaft and she began to move them along its length.


    A loud groan resonated at the back of his throat as his eyes landed on the glorious sight before him. For him, nothing could be compared to what his eyes were witnessing at the moment. The sight of his dear little wife straddling him as she served his member, was something for him to behold, not to mention that every inch of her body was exposed for his sinful eyes to enjoy.


    Giving into the pleasure, he closed his eyes tightly and threw his head back, letting his dear wife do as she pleased. "Faster, my little vixen." He groaned at the slow movements of her fingers which was soon followed by a satisfied hum as Stella complied to hi demand.


    Holding his hardened member in place with its head buried deep in her clit, she moved her fingers up and down of his member as the palm of her hand began to fondle the pair of balls at the base of the hardened rod.


    "That''s more like it." He hissed through his teeth as pleasure seeped through his body.


    The movements became her hands became more bold and confident after hearing his remarks and she continued to milk his member. Her eyes glowed with delight and excitement when they landed on his throbbing rod as it began to twitch in between her palms.


    *******


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 Chapter 246 - You Have Changed

    "Here''s your breakfast, Boss." Bella walked inside with a tray in her hand, her heels clicking against the marbled floor and making a clink sound with each of her step. She walked up to the couch and placed down the tray on the glass table before it.


    "Good morning, Bella. And thank you so much for this." Stella greeted her as she left her desk and walked up to the couch. After her early morning activities with Adam, she had called Bella to grab breakfast for two on her way to the company as it was too early for the office canteen to have some food. And there was no way she was eating any leftovers. She did have a good scolding from her doctor on her last appointment regarding the matter.


    "It''s no big deal. It was on my way anyways." Bella shook her head in a no as her eyes wandered around the room as she looked for a certain someone.


    As if reading her thoughts, Stella let out a small chuckle. "He''s inside." She replied to her unsaid question as she began to unpack their breakfast.


    "Oh!" Bella scratched the back of her head sheepishly. "Is Boss fine? I mean, I was too shocked to say or ask him anything when I saw him yesterday." She explained it to her, keeping her voice as low as she could.


    "Yeah! He''s completely fine." Stella gave her a polite smile before continuing. "And can you please keep it to yourself?" She looked at her intently as she asked her, which was actually more of an order.


    "You don''t even have to ask me that." Bella pursed her lips as she mimicked zipping them, putting on a lock and throwing the key away. Her antics earned a loud heartfelt laughter from Stella as she gave her a thumbs up.


    Giving one last look at the smiling face of her Boss, Bella walked out of the office with a bright smile embracing her own lips. She was too happy for Stella as the lady was back to her cheerful self. For her, both of her bosses deserved to have every single ounce of happiness in this world .


    "Good morning, my love." A husky voice interrupted her thoughts, making her stop her movements and look up from the bunch of cardboard and aluminium boxes.


    Right before her, stood the man of her dreams which owned her heart and soul. He was all dressed up in an all dark blue professional attire as he leaned his back against her desk, or was it his desk now that he was back. He had his eyes fixed on her small frame as a loving smile graced his face.


    "How long have you been standing there?" Stella narrowed her eyes as she questioned the man. A faint blush crept up on her cheeks as the thought of him staring at her for long registered in her mind. She shifted her attention back to the dishes which were resting on the table as she tried her best to look back into his gray orbs.


    "You have changed." His words made her look up again, a frown marring her forehead as she scrunched her eyebrows together. Before she could inquire him about his remark, he began to explain it on his own. "I have witnessed you acting all headstrong and tough. Even though you are still the same little naive girl whom I fell head over heels in love with, you are so much tougher." He took a pause and began to walk towards her with slow steps.


    "You managed to keep this whole business empire running and on its feet. You managed to solve those problems on your own which arose after my disappearance." He stopped one he was close to the couch and settled down next to her. Raising his hand up, he brought it closer to her face and cupped her cheeks.


    "I never knew that my little elf could even bare claws." He leaned in and pressed a soft kiss on her forehead, his lips lingering there for some time. "I am so proud of you, my little vixen." He murmured softly against her skin before moving his lips away.


    Stella gave him a bright smile, showing off her pearly white teeth, before scowling at him. The sudden change in her expressed confused him but a chuckle left his lips when he heard her response. "Can you stop with those nicknames? You go around giving me a new one every week. And my little vixen, seriously?" She rolled her eyes at him as she passed him a plate.


    "Well, what''s wrong with that?" Adam questioned her with an amused expression. "You are indeed my little vixen." He patted the top of her head with proud smirk resting on his face. His actions earned him a low groan from his dear wife.


    The duo continued to tease each other every now and then as they enjoyed their breakfast. Adam looked intently at her smiling face which was brimming with joy as she was telling him about some of the events which happened in his absence, a warmth spreading in his chest.


    ''If only I could pause the time and the two of us could stay like this forever, with you always smiling just like now.'' He wished to himself, even though he that it wouldn''t change anything, he still wished. He knew it was impossible for them to lead a happy and simple life, for they had too many enemies hiding in the shadows. But he would do every single thing in his power to ensure she was always protected.


    "Stella?" He called out softly to get her attention. A low hum made its way into his ears as response as she continued to eat the French toast, savoring each bite of it. "I love you." His sudden confession made her stop in her tracks as she looked to her side, only to find him smiling like a fool, gazing at her intently.


    Shaking her head sideways, the woman flicked him on his forehead before shifting her attention back to the remaining food on her plate. Just when he thought that he wouldn''t get a response, her sweet voice resonated. "I love you too."


    --------


    "Boss, will be here in a minute or two." David walked inside the meeting room and informed the people who were sitting around the long rectangular table. They were heads of each department along with their assistants who were there to record the minutes of the meeting for their bosses as they were too lazy to do it themselves.


    They had been sitting inside the room idle for the last ten minutes as they waited for the CEO of the Levinson''s Corp. It wasn''t because Stella was late, rather they were too scared to be late even by a second for they had witnessed what happened to such people with their very own eyes. For them, Stella was much more strict as a Boss as compared to Adam.


    "Good morning, everyone." Stella greeted the people who were sitting around the table as she walked inside the room. The room quieted down right after she walked in, silence engulfing the surroundings as the temperature dropped a few degrees.


    "Good morning, Boss." Every single person in the room greeted her back before they clamping their mouth shut again. The phrase ''you could even hear a pin dropping down on the floor'', fit perfectly to the current situation.


    Stella settled herself down on the head chair while David, who was still standing, took a seat on her right after she was comfortably sitting in her chair.


    "I won''t drag the meeting too much and come directly to the main point." Stella took a pause as her eyes wandered around the table. "There''s a file placed before each of you. I would like you to open it and have a look at it." She pointed her chin towards the blue colored files lying on the table.


    "Each file has some specific tasks which I have assigned for each department. I want you guys to get them done before the deadline mentioned next to the said task." She continued. Her words were followed by some shuffling sounds as every head of department picked up the file placed before the. The sound of pages being flipped filled the glass room.


    Stella gave the people some time to have a look at their files as she lazily looked around the room, stealing a couple of glances in the direction of her personal assistant as discreetly as she could. It was so weird for her to look at her man with the mask on, and a different identity. As she was busy eyeing ''David'', he caught her stealing glances at him and gave her a playful wink, making her eyes go wide. She looked around the table with the same widened eyes to see if anyone else has seen their brief exchange or not.


    "Boss?" She was about to heave a sigh of relief, when the Vice President of the company interrupted her.


    "Yes, Mr. Parker." Stella composed herself and questioned him. She was annoyed by the man at first when he returned back to the company after a week or so after the project site incident, for she blamed him for what had happened to Adam. If it wasn''t for his carelessness, Adam wouldn''t have gone missing. But within a week of his return, she realized that he wasn''t the one to be blamed and it wasn''t right on her part to act so childishly. Moreover, the man was pretty good at his job.


    "May I ask you what are these tasks actually for? I mean it looks like a take over." Parker placed down his file and questioned her politely. In the span of a month, he had come to realize that the lady wasn''t any less than Adam when it came to business. And he had an immense amount of respect for her.


    A devilish smirk graced Stella''s lips when she heard his question. Her eyes roamed around the table, looking intently at the people as she answered him.


    *******


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 Chapter 247 - It Is Indeed A Take Over

    A devilish smirk graced Stella''s lips when she heard his question. Her eyes roamed around the table, looking intently at the people as she answered him.


    "You are right Mr. Parker. It is indeed a take over. Levinson''s Corp. will be taking over R&E Group of Companies after two weeks." A couple of gasps followed her reply as her subordinates looked at each other with their baffled expressions.


    "But, Boss¡­ the company is barely running. Most of their investors had pulled out their investments and the board of directors is seething in anger. The company is on the verge of bankruptcy." One of her directors spoke up.


    Her delicate eyebrows scrunched up and a frown marred her forehead. "Do you think I don''t know all of that?" She rolled her eyes and chuckled lightly. "Whether you or anyone else in this room like it or not, Levinson''s Corp. will take over R&E Group of Companies in the span of the next two weeks. Either you can do your work and complete the tasks within the said amount of time, or I don''t mind signing on your resignation letters."


    Heaving out a tired sigh, Stella stood up from her chair and smacked her palm on the wooden table. "The meeting is adjourned." She spoke up before heading out of the meeting room, leaving the group of baffled people to deal with their own problems.


    She couldn''t care any less about what they might think about her, she could always bring in new people if they ever resigned. She wasn''t the one who needed them to work for her, they were the ones who needed to work for her. It was hard for them to turn a blind eye to the huge amount of money which was their pay.


    She was almost before the door of her office when she heard the sound of footsteps coming in her direction. She turned her face slightly only to find that it was David. ''What took him so long?'' She frowned and slowed down her steps as she waited for him to catch-up with her.


    Once the duo were inside her office, Adam began to question her in his own voice after making sure that the door was closed and locked. "What was that?"


    "What was what?" Stella tried to act clueless before him even though she knew exactly what he was referring to.


    "Stella?" He took a step closer to her, narrowing his eyes at her figure. He was too shocked after hearing her reply earlier in the meeting room. Moreover, the lady before him didn''t even bother to inform him prior to the meeting about it.


    "Didn''t you hear me earlier?" She pursed her lips in an adorable pout as she stepped closer to him, wrapping her arms around his neck as she stood on her tiptoes.


    "You shouldn''t be stressing yourself with such a trivial matter. I will take care of it once this whole fiasco is over." He gave her a troubled look as he wrapped his arms around her lower back.


    "I won''t be stressing myself with it. I have you by my side. And you said it yourself that it''s a trivial matter. I can handle it. I just want to put an end to what you started. I want to stake a claim at every single thing they took from my parents, Adam. I want to do it for myself, for us. I want to be someone who can proudly stand next to you without people pointing fingers at you, at us. I don''t want our children to ever hear what people talk behind us." She gazed into his brown eyes and explained her reason to him.


    Burying her face in his muscular chest, she hugged him close. "Just have faith in me." She muttered softly against his chest.


    Heaving out a long sigh, he placed a lingering kiss on the top of her head as he hugged her back. He asked her to leave the matter for him to deal with not because he didn''t have faith in her capabilities. She was more than capable to do it. He was just too worried that she would stress herself out and neglect her own health.


    "I always had faith in you, my baby girl. And I will continue to have faith in you." He pressed another kiss on top of her crown. "I can never doubt your abilities, you silly fool. But you need to promise me one thing."


    "What?" Stella muttered.


    "You won''t stress yourself even a little bit. The moment something problematic comes up, you will ask for my help. And I don''t want to hear any excuses. You are pregnant and I can''t let the mother of my children to bear any stress." He sternly replied to her.


    His words touched her heart and her eyes began to tear up. "I promise." She murmured under her breath as she hugged him tightly. "I love you."


    "I love you too, my little vixen." Adam replied her back only to be punched on his shoulder at the way he had addressed her.


    "Ouch!" Adam winced slightly as her fisted hand  made contact with his shoulder.


    Stella rolled her eyes at her husband, still clinging to him. She knew that he was just faking it as she hadn''t used much force. She continued to hug him tightly as she waited for his response, but it didn''t come. She pursed her lips and moved her face away as to give him a light scolding on his lack of response. But her words got stuck inside her mouth as her eyes landed on his pained facial expressions.


    Moving herself away from his figure, she cupped his face as he eyes gazed at him with concern. "Are you okay?" That was the only thing she could bring her panicked self to say.


    She saw him nod his head slightly, but even a blind person could tell that the man lying. The beads of sweat glistening over his forehead, and his scrunched up face was enough of a proof of his attempt at lying.


    "Adam!" She yelled suddenly when the man before her began to lose his consciousness.


    *******


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 Chapter 248 - Wonder Woman

    "Adam!" She yelled suddenly when the man before her began to lose his consciousness.


    Placing both of her hands on his shoulders, she tried to support him up. "F***!" She cursed out loud as she tried to carry him to the couch in his semi-conscious state. She was thankful that he wasn''t completely out of his senses, or else it wouldn''t have been easy for her tiny stature to carry his big one.


    Somehow, she managed to half drag his body to the couch and made him lie on it. She looked at his face which was becoming paler with each passing second, making her frown.


    ''These nanobots are damn good.'' A thought popped up in her mind, making her frown deeper. She nagged her own subconscious for thinking about technology at such a crucial time.


    "Adam?" She spoke up as she placed a pillow below his head. "I am fine." She heard his meek reply which riled her.


    "Yeah! I can clearly see how ''fine'' you are." She spat at him in anger. Fishing out her phone from her coat''s pocket, she scrolled through her contacts and stopped her fingers when she finally found the number she was looking for. Her dainty fingers clicked on the call button as she placed the phone next to her ear.


    "Who¡­." Only a single word made its way out of his trembling lips and the rest of his words were suppressed by a groan as he flinched in pain.


    "You keep your mouth shut, or I will drag you to a hospital." She threatened him, throwing a deadly glare in his direction before shifting her attention back to her phone.


    "Pick up, you moron." She cursed at the other person for being so slow. Just when she thought that the call would end without being received, the beeping sound finally ended as the call was connected finally.


    "Hey, sup?" Wilson managed to speak in between his short breaths. He sounded as if he had just run a marathon before picking up her call.


    Stella shook the thought of her mind. She would ask him about it some other time as she had some other matters which were clearly more important to her.


    "I need your to come to the company, right away." She spoke into her phone''s speaker and demanded him.


    "I am sort of busy right now. Is it urgent?" Wilson replied to her, questioning her at the same time.


    "I don''t care how busy you are right now, you better drag your ass here in within ten minutes." She spoke up, clenching her jaw.


    "Ugh! Okay, okay. I will be there in fifteen minutes. There''s no need for you to get angry, my dear sister-in-law." Wilson replied to her and waited for her response, but the woman just disconnected after making a low hum.


    "Why did you call him?" Adam, who was lying on the couch and keeping his mouth shut, finally spoke up after seeing that his woman was done with her call.


    "You are not allowed to talk. Just guide me through how to take your mask off. I will get it off before Wilson arrives." Without bothering to reply to him, Stella instructed him as she avoided looking directly into his eyes. She couldn''t bear to see his pained expressions again, especially when she was somewhat holding herself responsible for it.


    "There''s no need to call him here. Just give me a painkiller and I''ll be fine." Adam tried to coax her, but his stubborn wife refused to listen to him.


    "You are supposed to keep your mouth shut. And do as I say or I will drag you to a hospital and blow your cover." Stella threatened him once again and this time she was successful in making his mouth stay shut. "So, where were we? Guide me through how you take off the mask." She continued.


    --------


    "What''s wrong? Are you okay?" Wilson barged inside the office, followed by Bella who was trying to stop him from entering inside the office without confirming his arrival with Stella.


    "It''s alright, Bella. I called him, you can go back to your desk." Stella spoke up as she walked out of the room. She had shifted Adam inside after he was feeling a little better as it was much more comfortable than lying on the couch.


    Bella nodded her head at her words and walked out of the room, leaving the two of them alone inside.


    "You look fine. Why did you call me here then?" Wilson gave her an exasperated look as he eyed her up and down.


    "It wasn''t for me, but for someone else." Stella replied. Turning around she headed back to the room, asking him to follow her inside in silence.


    "The f***!" Wilson yelled in shock when his eyes landed on the man who was lying in the bed as if he owned the place, which he actually did. With his eyes popping out, he shifted his gaze front he man to Stella to and then to the man. "Wh-when and how?" Though he wanted to ask a whole bunch of questions to the couple, but that was the only thing he could manage to say out loud.


    "It''s a long story, and I don''t have the time to entertain you right now. I called you here to check on him. I lightly smacked him on his right shoulder and he almost fainted because of pain." Stella explained it to him.


    "Maybe you have turned into wonder woman." Wilson chuckled lightly as he tried to lighten the atmosphere, but the lady was in no mood to have any of it. She raised an eyebrow at him as her hazel orbs continued to throw daggers at him.


    Heaving out an annoyed sigh, Wilson raised both of his hands up in the air in defeat as he made his way towards the bed where Adam was lying down. "Welcome back, bro." He gave him a smile before his hands made their way to the buttons of his shirt. "I will need to remove your shirt so that I can have a look at your shoulder."


    "You don''t have to do that. I am telling you that it was just a bad cramp. It''s much better now. All I need is some painkillers, and I will be completely fine in no time." Adam spoke up as he stopped Wilson from proceeding any further.


    "Dude, are you the doctor here or am I?" Wilson narrowed his eyes at him. Judging the way he was clenching his jaw, it was obvious that he was trying to suppress his whimpers and the pain wasn''t due to something as simple as a cramp.


    "Stella?" Wilson turned his attention to the woman who was impatiently tapping her door against the ground as her eyes beheld the sight of two grown up men, fighting like children.


    "Adam, do as he says. Or do you want me to take them off for him?" She decided to turn a blind eye to their banter as for her, providing relief to her man was more important. And there was no way he was taking his words regarding the pain. She had seen the way a light punch affected him, and to what extent. A cramp couldn''t be the cause of it, no matter how bad of a cramp it was.


    Given no choice, the man could only comply to his wife. He gave up on arguing with the two of them and let Wilson remove his shirt as he was in no condition to do it himself. Soon, his cotton button-down shirt was lying on the floor, right next to his coat which Stella had removed earlier when she made him rest in the room as they waited for Wilson.


    Once the shirt was out of his way and there was nothing else obstructing his line of sight, Wilson began to examine his shoulder, starting from the base of his neck. After he was done examining the anterior part of his shoulder joint, Wilson asked him to shift on his left so that he could examine the back of it, including his shoulder blade.


    Adam pursed his thin lips together as his eyes shifted from his cousin to his beloved wife who was still standing in the same spot, a couple of steps away from the foot end of the king sized bed. Her eyes were fixed on his figure, barely blinking, as she stood there with her arms crossed over her chest.


    "Can you hurry up?" Wilson spoke up when he didn''t receive a response from the man as he was to busy eyeing his woman.


    "Don''t tell me that my feather like punch have made you deaf as well?" Stella let out a sarcastic chuckle as she continued to glare at the man. She had gotten so familiar with him that she could read him like an open book. The slightest shift in his expressions was enough for her to tell what exactly was going on in that stupid mind of his.


    "Turn around, Adam." She asked him in a not so polite manner as she gazed into his gray orbs.


    *******


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 Chapter 249 - Runs In Their Blood

    "Don''t tell me that my feather like punch have made you deaf as well?" Stella let out a sarcastic chuckle as she continued to glare at the man. She had gotten so familiar with him that she could read him like an open book. The slightest shift in his expressions was enough for her to tell what exactly was going on in that stupid mind of his.


    "Turn around, Adam." She asked him in a not so polite manner as she gazed into his gray orbs.


    Under her scrutinizing gaze, Adam shifted on his left as Wilson helped him. He knew that it was useless to make any more excuses as the aggravated woman before him was in no mood to accept any further of those. Moreover, she was supposed to find about it sooner or later. And the sooner it happened, the better it was for him.


    A loud gasp escaped Stella''s lips as they started to quiver. Her hands moved on their own and covered her gaping mouth as she continued to stay rooted to her spot. Her hazel eyes teared up as they stayed fixated on his shoulder blade where a ghastly long scar waited for them.


    A long vertical line could be seen running from the tip of his shoulder blade and down to his lower half of his rib cage. The pinkish brown skin covering the area where previously a deep, horrendous wound must had been, was too obvious in relation to his contrasting fair skin for anyone to not notice it.


    "Is it from that day?" Gritting her teeth, Stella managed to ask him. She was still not over her shock, but she needed to know this.


    "Yeah!" That was the only reply which Adam could give her. Just from the way her voice shook while asking him the question, he could tell that her lips were trembling. He was regretting not telling about it earlier, but everything happened in such an haste just because his mask got ruined that it completely escaped his mind.


    His words settled in her mind, making her more enraged. Blinking her tears away, she shifted her attention to the man who was standing by the side of bed quietly all this while. "Do your job. Let me know if you need anything at all. I will be in my office." She asked Wilson who nodded back at her.


    "Stella?" Adam called out to her but didn''t get a response. He wanted turn back as his current position wasn''t allowing him to have a proper look at her, but Wilson stopped him to do so. He placed a flat palm on his lower back and made his lie on his abdomen. He wanted to push his hand away, but the sharp pain stopped him from doing so.


    "Stella?" He called out to again only to get a response in the form of footsteps. But to his dismay, there weren''t moving towards him, rather out of the room.


    "I am doomed, ain''t I?" He questioned to Wilson after the door to the room was shut close with a loud thud.


    "That, you are." Wilson chuckled lightly as he began to examine the long scar. "Don''t worry, she will come around. Just give her some time and be patient." He muttered after a minute or so.


    "I know that. You just keep your mouth shut and do your work." Adam gave him a side glance and gritted through his teeth, earning an eye roll from the man.


    ---------


    The bright blue canvas was clear from any clouds as the sun shone high up in the sky. Tall buildings stood proudly under the assaulting bright rays of the sun, reflecting them back as they glimmered in their own way. The weather was finally pleasant after a whole week of cold, freezing winds. But it wouldn''t last for long as there was a prediction of a snow storm arriving next week.


    Keeping her eyes set on the tall buildings, Stella gazed into the distance through the floor to ceiling glass windows. Every time she closed her eyes, the scar would pop up in her mind, turning the already red rims of her eyes more red.


    Taking in a long, deep breath, she tried to calm herself down. It wasn''t easy for her to stop herself from crying. The only person she held dear to herself was in so much pain because of her. Not only that, he even tried to keep it a secret from her. The pain of being kept in the dark was much more worse than her guilt for causing him harm.


    "It''s done." Wilson walked out of the room and spoke up, bringing her out of her guilt trip.


    Stella blinked her tears away which had pooled in her eyes. She hummed softly as she turned around after composing herself. Even though Wilson was among those few people whom she considered a family, only Adam had the right to see her in a broken state. It was only him she could be vulnerable before.


    "I have prescribed some high potency painkillers to him. I have asked someone from the hospital to get them for you. The person will be here soon. Just don''t let him skip a dose or the pain will relapse. The wound was a deep one, so it''s still in its healing stage. It''s better if he doesn''t use his right hand too much, especially for lifting weight." Wilson, who was in his doctor mode, explained to her only to get a firm nod from her in return.


    He walked up to where she was standing and engulfed her in a bear hug. "He will be fine in no time. You just need to make sure that he sticks to the instructions which I have given." He spoke above her head as he lightly patted her back.


    "Thank you." Stella gave him a faint smile and thanked him for coming over on her call.


    Wilson flicked her forehead as he let go of her. "Are you seriously thanking me? I thought we were family." He pursed his lips in a pout as he faked wiping a tear from his cheeks.


    "Alright, alright. No thanks." Stella raised her hands up in the air.


    "That''s more like it. You don''t have to thank me at all. Just treat me out to a fancy lunch or dinner, that will do." He winked at her and made his way out, leaving her with a gaping mouth.


    "Shamelessness definitely runs in their blood." She muttered to herself, shaking her head sideways. Both of these cousins were on par with each other when it came to being shameless. Her eyes trailed off to the brown door which was slightly left ajar while she was lost in her own thoughts. Tilting her head slightly, she tried to have a look inside. But all she could see was the other end of the bed. She rolled her eyes knowing fully well that Wilson must have left the door in that position on purpose. And just like he has predicted, her curiosity got the best of her.


    Moreover, how could she bear to leave him on his own when he was in pain. No matter how much irked she was by him, her heart wouldn''t let her do so. Heaving out a long sigh, she headed towards the room.


    As soon as she entered the room, a frown marred her forehead when her eyes landed on the empty bed. The duvets which were covering his body earlier, were now lying on the floor. Her panicked eyes wandered around the room as they searched for the man. The unsettling feeling in her heart died down when two toned arms wrapped around her lower waist and a face nestled itself in the crook of her neck.


    "I am sorry." Adam muttered lightly below her ear, his warm breath tingling her neck.


    "How long are you going to keep apologizing to me?" Stella asked him as she stood rooted to the floor. "And why the f***ing hell are you out of the bed? You are supposed to be resting. You do know what does it mean, right?" She scolded him as she pushed his arms away, careful of her movements as not to hurt him again.


    "I can''t rest without having you in my arms. Lay down with me." He spoke up when he was her dragging him to the bed. When she saw her turning her head around, he scrunched his eyebrows together and pursed his lips to give her an innocent look.


    Stella glared at the man child before her who was trying his best to seem like an adorable pup.


    "Pretty please." He blinked his eyes a couple of times as he tried to sound more pitiful.


    Letting out an annoyed groan, she decided to agree with her big baby, for now. "Okay! But this doesn''t mean that I am not mad at you anymore."


    *******


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 Chapter 250 - Unfortunate Day (1)

    "Pretty please." He blinked his eyes a couple of times as he tried to sound more pitiful.


    Letting out an annoyed groan, she decided to agree with her big baby, for now. "Okay! But this doesn''t mean that I am not mad at you anymore."


    "Okay." Adam happily replied to her, letting her drag him to the bed. He would feel much better after having her in his arms. Moreover, she wouldn''t be able to stay mad at him for long anyways, so he was okay with her pretense as long as he could hold her in his arms.


    After a couple of minutes, the couple was snuggling with each other, more like it was Stella who was snuggling close to him whilst she used his left arm as her pillow.


    "Are you feeling any better?" She asked him as she gazed up at his face. She saw his chin moving slightly up and down as he gave her a nod in response. "Adam!" She called out softly, but the man next to her wasn''t a fool to turn a deaf ear to the underlying warning.


    "It still hurts a bit, but it''s much better now." He replied, deciding to be honest with her this time. It was useless to even try hiding it from her when she could see right through his words.


    "Wilson will get your painkillers delivered in a while. You just need to rest till then." She replied to him, draping her arm over his toned abs.


    Adam hummed lightly in return. "Don''t you want to know how exactly I got this scar?" He questioned the lady in his arms who was busy drawing circles over his bare abdomen with her slender fingers.


    His words made her stop in her tracks for a mere second before she decided to carry on with it. He didn''t know whether her random movements were for him or her own self as she tried to keep herself distracted. "Nah!" She finally replied to him after a whole minute, making him frown.


    Before he could ask her about it, she stopped her wandering fingers and detached herself from his body as she sat up straight. Staring down at his confused expressions, a low chuckle escaped her lips. ''He looks so stunning when he seems so clueless.'' She thought inwardly before explaining her earlier remark.


    "You know how much of a curious cat I am. Of course I would want to know how it happened. There''s no second thoughts regarding that. But, for me, you''ll always come first. I can keep my damn curiosity in check until you feel like sharing about it." She smiled at him, showing off her perfectly aligned teeth as the corner of her eyes wrinkled.


    Adam continued to stare back at her brightened up expression, tearing up ever so slightly. ''How did I become so lucky?'' He questioned himself. Not being able to control the sudden rush of emotions surging inside him, he grabbed her arm and tugged at it. His swift movements didn''t permit her mind to process what was happening and she ended up landing on his chest, exactly where he wanted her to be.


    A low groan resonated at the back of his throat as a sharp, lancinating pain shot up his shoulder. Pursing his thin lips together, he tried to suppress it but it was too late as Stella could feel his breathing becoming haggard. She tried to get up from his chest, but his hand was restricting her movements as it kept her in place.


    "Don''t move. Let me hold you, please." She heard his trembling voice and stopped her movements, giving into his pleas.


    "You could have just asked me to hug you, you fool." She spoke into his chest. "There was no need to make yourself suffer more." She could only nag at him as she tried to stay as still as she could.


    "You make me lose my mind. How could I remember about my pain when every single inch of my body was asking to have you close to me?" His reply made her role her eyes.


    "Your lines are getting better and better. You should try using that devilish brain of your in helping me run the business, rather spouting those sugary words." She spat back at him, trying to sound annoyed even though a faint smile was hugging her lips.


    "I am well aware of the fact that you are smiling into my chest. And I just want to let my curious ''kitten'' have a good fill of her curiosity." He added as he rubbed the back of her head lovingly.


    "You don''t have to¡­." She wanted to stop him from proceeding any further, but the man interrupted her words.


    "I know that I don''t have to. But I want to do this." He spoke up softly above her head. Breathing out a long sigh, he began to explain his side of the story.


    "Remember when our call got disconnected that day?" He questioned her only to get a low hum in response. How could she forget it? She wouldn''t be able to forget even a single detail about that unfortunate day for the rest of her life. The day her life took a 180¡ã shift without her knowledge.


    As if feeling her discomfort, Adam hugged her closer before continuing. "I was looking for a way out when I was talking to you. The team of higher-ups which was supposed to be with me on my tour, escaped from the place after the first blast was heard. So I was on my own as I tried to make my way towards the emergency exit." He took a pause as his mind recalled the events of the distressful day.


    -------


    *FLASHBACK*


    While he was running while he had Stella on phone, he bumped into a burning pillar due to his absent-mindedness. Because of the forceful impact, his phone slipped through his fingers and landed on the floor with a loud thud.


    Worried that he wasn''t able to hear reply, he scurried his way towards the phone and let out a relaxed sigh when his eyes landed on the lit up screen which was showing that the call was still connected. Just when he was about to pick up his phone, another blast was heard and the floor above him, came rushing down. A few pieces of the rubble landed right on his phone. It would have been his body in place of the crushed phone if it wasn''t for his fast reflexes. He was thankful to Blake''s father for training him back then.


    Looking at the pieces of debris below which his phone was buried, he cursed out loud. Thinking that he could always find another way to get in contact with her if he somehow managed to escape this building, he continued to run towards the emergency exit.


    His hopes to see his beloved little elf or at least talk to her, shattered into pieces when he found the door to the emergency exit locked, not from the inside, but from the outside. A couple of explicit curses escaped his lips as he banged his fisted hand against the door.


    Running his fingers through the locks of his hair, which were now a mess and had dust particles clinging to them, he tried to think of another way out. He knew it was useless to waste his energy on the door. He would have tried to take it down if it was a wooden one, but he had no chance before the large metal door.


    He recalled all those times he had video conferences with the chief architecture of the site, trying his best to think of any information, no matter how small it was, which could help him get out of this place. Depending on the number of blasts his ears had managed to catch on, it wouldn''t require an expert to tell that this whole place would soon turn to dust.


    "Ughh!" He let out a frustrated groan when he couldn''t think of anything. His eyes wandered around the corridor he was in as they looked for something which he could use, but didn''t find anything. He was about to walk away from the place and head towards some other corridor, but his steps stopped when his eyes landed on a map which was framed and hanging on top of the wall.


    His eyes roamed over it for some time before they lit up with hope again. The map wasn''t some map from and atlas, but rather it was a black and white blueprint of the whole project site. It had all the areas labelled properly. It purpose was actually to give the investors and government people a brief idea about the structure of the site area. But who knew that it would help him in escaping from this building which was about to come crashing down any minute now.


    He wiped off the sweat which had managed to cluster on his forehead. The temperature of the area had suddenly increased by a few degrees as the building had caught fire. Grayish black smoke began to accumulate around, limiting his vision.


    *******


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 Chapter 251 - Unfortunate Day (2)

    He wiped off the sweat which had managed to cluster on his forehead. The temperature of the area had suddenly increased by a few degrees as the building had caught fire. Grayish black smoke began to accumulate around, limiting his vision.


    His eyes roamed around the corridor as his mind went back to the day he had a video conference with the chief architecture and his subordinates. While explaining about the area, one of his subordinates had mentioned about some tunnels. He even explained about their exact locations to him as he had always been a curious cat, just like his dear little wife.


    It was then that the chief architecture told him about the abandoned factory site. Instead of building one from scratch, Adam decided to buy an abandoned factory as it would take a lot of time to build a completely new one and he wanted to get the project started as soon as possible. Moreover, it wasn''t easy to get an empty plot in the city which was spread far and wide and would be able to contain the number of buildings he had in mind.


    Under his orders, his subordinates began to look for such a site and he finally decided on the current one. All his team had to do now was to renovate the entire place and make sure that the buildings were strong enough to carry on the production. As the factory was recently abandoned as they faced bankruptcy, it was easy for Levinson''s Corp. to get their hands on the area. And they didn''t even have to do much to the buildings, just some basic changes.


    During the conference his chief architecture had told him that the ground was once a battlefield, and those tunnels served the purpose of a passageway for soldiers. But they were actually built to allow slaves to escape a couple of decades earlier than that. He asked for his permission to close them all, but Adam refused him since they had a historical importance. In fact, he asked him link those tunnels to the underground floor which was used as a basement.


    The tunnels were secured and it was made sure that would stay intact and wouldn''t come collapsing down. If only he could somehow find his way to the basement, he would be able to escape from here.


    He was sure that whoever was behind all of this, wouldn''t have known about their existence because he had asked his team to keep their mouths shut regarding the matter. He was sure that they wouldn''t have betrayed him as they were the same group of people who was hired by him for building the bases in different cities, even in some other countries, for his underground business.


    He searched for a way out as he heard more crashing sounds. He began to walk around in a haphazard manner, looking for a way out. His steps came to a halt when his eyes landed on a large hole in the floor. Coming close to it, he stood by the edge as he examined the floor below.


    It wasn''t a small fall if he decided to jump right below and wouldn''t be able to land on his feet. But he knew that all the training he did in his teens would definitely pay off and he would be able to make the leap. But what worried him was the debris waiting below for him. It would have been much easier for him if those huge chunks of stone were not down there. And to add to his troubles, he could see that they were aflamed.


    He closed his eyes and tried to calm his jittery nerves down. A faint smile bloomed on his face when a familiar face popped up against the black curtain. "You can do it, Adam." He muttered under his breath as he tried to cheer his own self up. Taking in a long breath, he opened his eyes and aimed them to the ground below.


    Stretching his arms to his sides, he finally took the leap and jumped. But instead of landed on his feet, he ended up landing on his knees and palms. He stood right away as his palms and knees began to feel hot as a result of being pressed against the hot rubble for too long.


    He examined himself after he was standing on his feet. A couple of scratches marred his fair palms, with some dust and tiny stones stuck inside the cut layer of their skin. His knees were in the same conditions as the forced he''s ripped his pants around the knee area.


    Not wanting to stay in the same place for too long, he just dusted his palms and began to move as he knew that the building won''t be able to stay up for long. And he had three more floor to cross before he would finally be in the basement.


    Using the same method and ignoring the sharp pain which was burning his palms and knees he continued to make his way down, one floor after the other. It wasn''t only his palms and knees which was in pain. His clothes had holes in them by now which were caused either by being scratched really bad by the rough edges of the cement pieces or because of the flames.


    After what seemed like an eternity to him, he was finally able to reach the basement. In his disheveled state, he hurriedly looked for the door which connected the building to the tunnels. After two more minutes he was finally able to find the metal door which wasn''t a big one.


    Heaving out a long tired sigh, he decided to try his luck with the door. He closed his eyes as he thanked the heavens above when he heard a slight click sound and the door opened. He winced and retracted his injured palm back from the lever, shaking it in the air to provide it some relief from the burning sensation.


    Because of the tall orange flames which were engulfing everything coming in their way, turning them into ashes or heating them up to the extent where a single touch would melt a human''s skin.


    "F***!" He cursed himself under his breath for being so careless. The increasing temperature of his surroundings, brought him out of his thoughts. He took off his coat which barely looked like it earlier self and used to hold the lever as he tried to open the door. After struggling with the heavy metal door for a little while, he finally succeeded.


    He took a step inside the dark hallway as his fingers searched for something. According to his information, his team had traced out the tunnels and put some lights inside which could only be turned on from inside the tunnel itself. He flicked the switch when his fingers were able to locate it, and soon the once darkened path was lit up with bright white lights.


    He took in a couple of breaths as he tried to fill his lungs with some fresh air but failed badly as the only thing which entered his lungs was the black smoke filling the room, making him broke into a series of loud coughs. Just as he recovered, a loud crashing sound was heard as the rod of the basement fell behind him. A couple of pieces of the debris came flying his way and hit him on his back.


    His hand rested on the wall next to him as he tried to stop himself from stumbling down. Before the man could stand up straight and run out, a large piece of the floor above came tumbling down on his back.


    "Ughh!" He groaned through his trembling lips as the pain was too much for him to bear. The stone had grazed his back, piercing through his shirt. He could feel something trickle down his back. And without even having a look, he could tell for sure that it was his own blood which was making his back wet.


    He blinked his eyes a couple of times as he tried to regain his focus on the corridor like tunnel ahead. With his shivering body and unfocused eyes, he continued to walk ahead, not paying any attention to the loud banging and crashing sounds which were coming from behind him, becoming louder as it echoed inside. He had only one thing on his mind, which was to get out of here as soon as possible and get some help.


    Once he was out of the main tunnel, he saw some a number of smaller ones before him. Following his instincts, he decided to take the one which was closest to him. He didn''t have much time left before tiredness would engulf his body, leaving him no choice but to stop. Moreover, he could still feel something dripping of his back. Based on the stench in the air, it was definitely blood.


    He dragged his tired body to the end of the tunnel where he saw another metal door which looked familiar to the previous one. He hurriedly walked up to it and opened the door, using whatever energy his body was left with. He scrunched his eyelids shut as the blinding light entered his eyes. He opened and closed his time a couple of times, allowing them to adjust to the surroundings.


    Once his eyes were okay with the bright day light, he took a step outside of the tunnel, only to see himself being surrounded by tall green trees. He cursed under his breath after taking a good look around himself. ''It''s a damn jungle.'' He thought inwardly. Now how was he supposed to look for help here.


    His mind began to work in overdrive mode as he tried his best to think of a way out. But before he could take a step further, black spots began to appear before his eyes before his entire vision turned black and his body collapsed on the ground.


    *FLASHBACK ENDS*


    *******


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 Chapter 252 - I Dont Pamper My Wife Enough

    Gazing at the woman in his arms, Adam placed a light kiss on top of her head, allowing his lips to linger there for a bit longer. His hands moved in a slow up and down pattern as he tried to coax her. His bare torso which could make any same woman drool, was now drenched with the warm, salty water which was continuously flowing from her eyes as the woman refused to stop.


    Right after he had begun to tell her how he managed to escape, the woman in his arms started to shed her precious tears. He even stopped a couple of times when recalling the entire ordeal, but she demanded him to continue. Given no choice, he had to give into the wishes of her beloved elf.


    He decided to take a pause when he told her about the moment he had fallen unconscious as his body couldn''t take it anymore, as he could hear a couple of sobs resonating against his bare skin. His hands continue to pay her as they held her in place, while his brain started to think of a way to make her stop shedding her precious pearls.


    He tried to think of something, anything at all to say to her which could make her calm down, but his mind failed to come up with one. Somehow, deep inside his heart, he knew that no matter what words he managed to say at the moment, it wouldn''t be able to make her any better. She only needed his presence right now, and he would give it to her.


    "Stella?" Her name rolled off his tongue which was replied with a meek hum.


    "That is why I didn''t tell all of this to you when you asked me earlier." He spoke above her head. His lips landing on the crown of her head, placing a feather like kiss.


    "W-what ha-pp-ened after that?" Her croaked up voice made its way into his ears.


    "Don''t you know how lucky your dear husband is?" He spoke up in a playful tone, trying to lighten up her mood.


    "I would have punched you if it wasn''t about your injury." Stella replied in between her faint sobs, making him chuckle lightly.


    "I could still take a punch from you. Just don''t hit my right shoulder." He spoke up above her head and hugged her closer.


    "Are you going to answer me or not?" She rolled her eyes, which were still filled with tears.


    "Sure, Ma''am." He breathed out a long sigh. "Luckily, there is a village close to the forest. The village people come to the forest every two or three days to pick up the animals which their traps had caught. One of them found me lying unconscious on the ground and decided to take me back to the village where I woke up two days later."


    "What if it wasn''t the day of their pick-up? And what if you have taken some other tunnel?" Stella finally looked up from his chest, resting her chin on top of her crossed hands.


    "All of the tunnels lead out to somewhere out of the main city. If I would have gone for some other tunnel, I would have just come out at some other place." He explained it to her. He wasn''t worried about choosing the right or wrong tunnel as all of them would lead him to the surface. What worried him them was the length of those tunnels as it wasn''t the same for all.


    After a brief pause, he continued. "And as for your first question, I really don''t know what I would have done if it wasn''t for them. I don''t know whether or not I would have been alive today." He gazed into her hazel orbs and gave her a sad smile.


    Scrunching her eyebrows together, Stella gave him a pout. She was about to scold him for talking such nonsense, but Adam interrupted her as he continued.


    "The man who found me was the son of the village chief, so his father decided to take me in. After I woke up, they let me stay with them, more like insisted on it as I was in no condition to even move, let alone leave the place. They took care of me until all my wounds were completely healed, except for the shoulder one as it was too deep."


    Stella gave him a questioning look. "How did you come back?"


    "Well, they helped me. Once I was able to reach the city, I decided to get in contact with a subordinate of mine who lived there. With his help, I was able to get in touch with the people I told you about earlier." He answered her as his fingers began to play with her curls, twirling them around themselves.


    Taking in a long breath, he continued with his explanation under her scrutinizing gaze. "I shifted back to the city a week before the interview. I got myself an apartment, did some shopping and showed up at the company to set the plan in motion."


    "Where did you get the money for all of that?" She narrowed her eyes as she inquired him.


    "Hey, what''s with that accusing look?" Adam raised his eyebrows at her. "I did not do anything wrong for your kind information, my wifey. I was taught to always be prepared for any circumstances, which by the way includes what happened to the project site. I had a couple of accounts under a faux identity, David Morrison."


    "Damn!" Stella looked at him with her widened eyes. "No wonder people are so cautious of you." She shook her head slightly as she gazed up at him. ''This man is definitely something else.''


    "How do you think I made you fall for me?" He winked at her. He was about to tease her further when he saw her rolling her eyes, but his words died down at the back of his throat when his eyes settled on the oval ring resting on her finger.


    A smile graced his lips and his eyes began to glisten with unshed tears, a warmth spreading through his chest, engulfing his entire being. Using his one hand he grabbed her palm and brought it closer to his lips. The smile on his face turned wider when he caught the large oval shaped diamond which was nestled in the middle of the band, glistening under the faint pale lighting.


    "I am sorry that I wasn''t there to give this to you myself. But I''ll get you another one." He spoke softly against the back of her hand before pressing a kiss against it, allowing his lips to linger on the spot for a bit longer.


    "I already have two of these, and that sunflower pendant. I don''t want another one." Stella pursed her lips in displeasure. She was never a big fan of jewellery from her childhood. The only jewellery she was fond of wearing these days were the ones gifted to her by him.


    Adam frowned his eyebrows after hearing her reply. "Are you trying to say that I don''t pamper you enough, Mrs. Adam Levinson?"


    "That''s not what I mean. You always ask Katherine to send a hell lot of jewellery to go with my every outfit." She rolled her eyes. "You know I am just not fond of it."


    "It''s up to you whether or not you want to wear them, but I can''t let people say that I don''t pamper my wife enough, can I now?" He gave her an innocent side grin.


    "Who cares what people say?" She shrugged in response.


    "I do. When it comes to you, I do care." He patted the back of her head lovingly as he rubbed his cheek against the back of her hand which he was still holding on.


    "Then you can do as you please, Mr. Adam Levinson." She replied with a smile of her own.


    "Of course I can, Mrs. Adam Levinson." He gave her a smirk as he moved his lips towards her finger tips and kissed each of them, one by one. His actions and the way he was staring at her face intently, gazing into her hazel orbs without blinking, made her cheeks flushed.


    His lips moved away from her hand, making her think that he was finally done with teasing her, but her happiness didn''t last for long when his tongue began to toy with her pinky finger. The blush on her face deepened as he began to suck on it, his skillful tongue showering it with licks, twirling around it.


    She could feel heartbeat becoming erratic under her palm which was pressed flat against his chest, acting as a support for her chin. She gazed into his gray eyes as she saw his lips trailing down to her wrist, peppering kisses in its way across her palm. He pressed his lips against her fair wrist, allowing them to stay there for a while.


    He wanted to pin her body under his own so badly, but had to fight the urge of doing so. He wouldn''t want to hurt their babies. He better ask her doctor about it on her next visit. A sudden knock on the door, forced him to come out of his thoughts.


    "Boss, it''s me." The couple heard Bella''s voice coming from the other side of the door. "There''s a parcel for you from some Dr. Wilson. The delivery guy said that it''s urgent and I better give it to you right away." She continued.


    "I am coming." Stella replied to her and carefully moved away from her man. She wouldn''t want to cause him even the slightest bit of discomfort. "Your medicines are here. I will get them for you." She spoke to him as she got down from the bed.


    *******


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 Chapter 253 - Do You Smell That?

    "Good morning, Mr. David." Stella greeted him with a bright smile on his face.


    Every department of Levinson''s Corp. was busy with tasks assigned by her. They wanted to get them done as soon as possible as they only had a week remaining before the deadline given by her.


    Stella was on a round around the company as she needed to ensure that no one was slacking, not that they had the guts to do it while she was roaming around the corridors of the company. It''s not like she had anything else to do as almost all of her work was done as Adam was helping her with dealing other matters so that she could completely focus on the take over of R&E Group of Companies.


    It had been a week since his pain relapsed, but she was glad that he was doing better and the medicines prescribed by Wilson were doing their job too well. She was supposed to go to her doctor last weekend with Adam but her doctor had to leave for an international conference which was being held in a neighbouring country and had to reschedule her appointment for today. She was a bit excited about it as it would be the first time she wouldn''t be alone and that he would be with her.


    "Good morning, Boss." David greeted her back and returned her smile with his own, making the women who was standing around him, burning with jealousy.


    She was just taking a small walk on the floor below the cafeteria when her eyes landed on his favorite human. Her lips curled up in an eye-catching smile which was soon replaced by a scowl when her eyes shifted to the unwanted flies which were pestering him.


    From the day, ''David'' had showed up at the company and was assigned the role of her personal assistant, he right away became famous not only among the female employees of the company, but males as well. But the two groups had their own reasons for keeping an eye on him.


    ''Did this man really have to choose such a handsome face for a mask?'' Stella thought to herself, clenching her palms into fists. Every time she caught some random woman stealing glances in his direction, she would end up seething with anger. With or without the mask, the man was hers, and only she had the right to ogle at him. In her attempt to shoo away those unwanted flies, she greeted him.


    "Good morning, Boss." Her employees greeted her. Even though every ounce of their bodies was burning with jealousy, they had to show her respect. They had never seen the man even curling his lips ever so slightly, no matter how good or seductively they dress up before approaching him. And here he was, showing off those white pearls on a single greeting by her.


    "Here I was thinking that every single member of the staff would be busy because of the workload. It looks like I didn''t assign too much of work for your department." The one corner of her lips slightly curled up in a sarcastic smirk.


    "Oh, no! We were just asking Mr. David here about some of the problems that we have been facing regarding our work." One of the women stepped forward and began to explain to her as politely as she could.


    "If you have any problems, discuss it with your mates, or if it is too big of a problem, then you can ask your superiors." Stella raised one of her delicate eyebrows as she looked at the woman before her. "And as far as I remember, I hired him to be ''my'' personal assistant, not yours." She continued, stressing on the word ''my''.


    "That''s... not¡­ want I meant, Boss." Her broken reply was heard which only made Stella to scoff.


    Instead of replying to her, she turned her attention to the man who was standing next to the woman. "If you are done playing around, shall we go now, Mr. David?" She questioned him with deadpan expression.


    "As you say, Boss." How could the lovesick fool say no to her, never till his last breath. A low hum was heard in response as Stella began to walk away from the crowd which had gathered around.


    Without even giving the pestering flies a mere look, he began to follow Stella who had already left the place, like a puppy following his owner.


    "Do you smell that?" He questioned her when they were at a good distance away from the crowd as he tried to catch-up with her.


    "Smell what?" Stella gave him a side glance and questioned him as she continued to walk towards the elevator.


    "Smells like something is burning, or rather a some one." A devilish smirk embraced his lips as he replied to her.


    Stella glared in his direction as she stepped inside the elevator, followed by him. Once the duo were inside the confinements of the elevator and the doors were closed, Stella pressed the button for the ground floor, settling the elevator into motion.


    "What did you say?" She turned to her side to face him only to find his smiling like the fool he was around her. "Can you repeat it again?" She took a step towards him and asked when she didn''t get a response from the man.


    Adam, who was still disguised as David, just shrugged his shoulders in return as he took a step back. Stella continued to inch closer to him as he continued to step backwards until his back was resting against the sidewall of the elevator with Stella standing right before him, her body were merely a few inches away for his.


    His Adam''s apple bobbed up and down as he gulped down a mouthful of saliva. The temperature inside the elevator was suddenly beginning to turn hotter as the two love birds continued to stare into each other''s eyes.


    Stella took another step closer to him as she rested her one hand on his chest, causing him to gasp. Her hand began to move downward as she continued to gaze into his brown orbs. It continued to move further south before it came to rest right over his crotch.


    "You were saying something?" She blinked her eyes a couple of times, trying to act completely oblivious to the effects her bold actions had on him. She began to stroke the bulge in between his legs when she saw him clenching his jaws together.


    "What was burning?" She looked at him intently with a blank look on her face as she continued moving her hands over the bulging area, caressing it. She could feel the size of his crotch becoming bigger in her palm.


    "Do you smell that?" She questioned him out of nowhere, making him frown in confusion.


    He was trying his best to fight against the urge to pin her against the wall but the elevator could come to a halt anytime. And he didn''t want her employees to see them in a complicated state. The display of affection between David and her was only meant to be seen by the employees who were suspected to be spies.


    "Smell what?" He questioned him with his dry throat which was soon answered by a not so gentle squeeze rather than words, almost making him come right then and there.


    A ding sound was heard as the elevator came to a stop on the ground floor and the doors began to open. Stella retracted her hand right away. The disappointed look on his face made her elated. He was indeed missing the sensation her hand was providing him as soon as it moved away.


    "Smells like something is ''turned on'', or rather a some one." She replied to his earlier question, the corner of her lips curling up in an evil smile. She winked at him as she threw his own words back at him. She subconsciously gave her own self a couple of pats on her shoulder for thinking of such a way to take her revenge.


    Looking at his widened eyes and gaping mouth, she raised her chin up slightly in the air proudly and walked out of the elevator with smug resting on her face. On her way out, her hands roamed over the numbers and she pressed the button for the top most floor before continuing in her tracks.


    Adam''s eyes lingered on her retreating back with the same baffled expressions, his eyes popping out of their sockets and his jaw hanging low. He continued to stay in the same spot even after she had disappeared from his line of sight and the doors of the elevator were closed as it began to head up to its destination.


    *******


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 Chapter 254 - Shopping Time

    NOTE! Every time you see ?Adam? it means that he is still disguised as David. It would be awkward to use David when it''s just the two of them. I will be using David when the are at the company or during his conversation with others! Happy reading ??????


    ********


    "Where do you think you are going?" ?Adam?, still in his disguise,  tried to keep up with her as she was walking too fast to his liking and that too in heels. Though they weren''t too high and had a broad base, but he was still in his overprotective mode.


    The duo was roaming around the mall because Stella had demanded to do so. They had left the office early today because his lady wanted to roam around the mall and do some shopping before going to the hospital. He tried to change her mind by saying that he could go on his own and grab whatever she would like for her, but the woman was too persistent about doing it herself. So, here they were now, roaming around just like the way his wife wanted.


    "Why are you walking so slow?" She questioned the man as her steps came to a halt before a huge outlet of an international fashion house.


    "You are the one who''s walking too fast." He glared at the woman who was standing before him. No one in their right frame of mind, would believe that his wife was pregnant with two children, when she was herself behaving like one.


    "Nope, it''s you who is slow." She gave him a side glance and spoke up before walking into the outlet which had floor to ceiling glass walls with a couple of mannequins standing on one side, adorning a bunch of mesmerizing dresses for display.


    "Since when did you become fond of shopping?" He followed her inside and questioned her with an annoyed expression, which was soon replaced by a bright smile when he caught her looking around the newborn''s section.


    "Yes, I hate shopping. But who do you think will shop for our twins if not us? They surely can''t do it themselves." She spoke up absent-mindedly as all of her attention was fixed on the racks which were filled with a variety of clothes from newborn babies.


    "I did some research a while back, they have the best clothes for newborns in whole of Germany. That''s why we are here." She spoke up as she continued to move from one rack to the other.


    ?Adam? hummed in response as he continued to follow her, making sure to stay right behind her in case she needed his help. A frown marred his forehead when he saw her only focusing on the boys section.


    "Why are you only looking at these?" He questioned her only to get a shrug in response as the woman before him carried on with whatever she was doing. "Stella?" He called out to her when he didn''t get a response.


    "Because I know that both of our twins are going to be boys." She finally bothered to reply to him with a smug look on her face.


    "What if both of them are girls?" He questioned her. He stepped a bit closer to her and wrapped his left arm around her lower back. Pulling her closer to himself, he tried to get her attention. "Are you going to ignore me just like this after our babies are born?" He pursed her lips and complained to her about the way she was barely giving him any response.


    His words finally made her shift her attention from the clothing rack to him. She giggled lightly as she raised her free hand up to his face and pinched his cheek lightly. "I was just having a look at them, you big baby." She tiptoed and placed a feather like kiss on his chin. "Let''s go and have a look at those." She pointed her finger towards the other side of the section where a bunch of racks were filled with pink baby clothes.


    The corners of his pursed lip turned upwards as a bright smile graced his face. He pressed his thin lips on her forehead before shaking his head sideways. "Nah! Let''s look at these first." He pointed his chin in the direction of the rack they were standing next to.


    -----------


    The duo walked out of the store with a bunch of shopping bags in their hands which were filled with baby clothes in every shade of pink and blue. ?Adam? wanted to carry all of them on his own, but Stella didn''t let him have his way. His shoulder was doing much better now but it still wasn''t completely healed. There was no way she would let him carry any weight until he had completely recovered.


    "Why didn''t you get anything for your own self?" ?Adam? questioned her as the store had clothes for women as well but she didn''t even bother to even glance in their direction. ''She better start spending money on her own self as well.'' He made a mental note to give her a thorough scolding regarding the matter later on when it would be just the two of them.


    "I already have enough clothes back at home." She replied to him without looking in his direction.


    "Ughhh!" He groaned in annoyance. He was about to drag her inside one of the shops they were passing by but stopped himself when an idea popped in his mind as his eyes landed on a high-end jewellery shop across them.


    "Alright! If you don''t want to get anything for yourself, get me something. I need some new suits for the company." He asked her, knowing fully well that she wouldn''t say no to him on this. And just like he had predicted, she agreed with him right away. He guided her to a store which was exclusively for menswear.


    Just when they were right outside the glass door he smacked himself in the forehead using his free hand. "Damn! I need to make a call. How could I forget to do it." His words got her attention, making her frown.


    "Remember my friend from the city, it''s him I need to call." He explained to her when he saw her questioning look.


    "Then you can call him first. We can shop for you after it." Stella suggested as she thought that it must be something important, it could even be urgent for all she knew.


    "Okay, but I can''t talk to him here. I''ll have to walk down to the car and I don''t want to make you walk more. Why don''t you go inside and look for something for me? I will get back to you as soon as I am done with the call." He suggested to her.


    "Alright! But what if I chose something absurd?" She raised an eyebrow at him as she questioned him with a playful smile on her face.


    "I can wear anything no matter how absurd it is as long as you are the one who made the choice." He pinched the tip of her nose, gazing into her hazel orbs lovingly. "Give them to me. I will put them in the car." He spoke up, grabbing the handles of the shopping bags which were dangling from her dainty fingers.


    "Umm¡­ okay." She agreed to him and passed the bag to him, making sure that he wasn''t carrying even a single one in his right hand. Giving one look at his disappearing figure as he moved through the crowd, she stepped inside the store.


    She was busy eyeing around some formal suits as she strolled around the area. A girl dressed in a light brown working attire offered her help to her but Stella turned it down as she gave him a polite smile.


    "Thank you so much, but I am just looking around for now. I will call for you when I need your help, Lizzy." She added as her eyes trailed to the name badge pinned on the left side of her chest.


    "Sure, Ma''am. Just let me know if you need anything." The girl replied to her with a smile of her own.


    After walking past her, Stella heaved out a long sigh as she couldn''t find anything that caught her eye. Even though the store had a wide variety of men''s apparel, she still couldn''t find anything to her liking. She was bored by his choice of wear as he would always go for black, gray or dark blue. He had a wide of range of their shades. And she had the urge to see him in something different, something a bit more vibrant.


    "Lizzy?" She trailed back her steps and came back to the spot where she had seen the girl. She was hoping that she would still be there as the girl seemed sweet to her. Moreover, she might be able to help her with it.


    Her eyes glowed with joy when she saw her standing a bit far from her earlier spot as she was dealing with another customer. The man had his back facing towards her while he chatted with the girl. Even though his face wasn''t visible to her, she could still tell that he wasn''t your ordinary man by the way he carried himself. The way he stood with a straight back, was enough for her to know that he belonged to one of the aristocratic families of Germany. From his salt and pepper hair, she could tell that the man must be in his late forties or early fifties.


    She wanted to call Lizzy, but stopped herself from doing so. It would be bad on her part to disrespect an elderly man. She just decided to stroll around the store for a bit longer, hoping that Lizzy would be free by then. Turning her back towards them, she followed down the same path she had just come from.


    After five more minutes, she returned back with an unhappy expression on her face. ''No wonder he brought me here.'' She thought inwardly. The entire store was filled with suits which were as bland  as his personal closet.


    Puffing her cheeks, she let her eyes roam around as she got back to her initial task, to look for the girl. She narrowed her eyes when she saw her still talking to the same customer. She just needed her help for a little while, but this man was taking so long to get done with his business. Her already messed up mood turned much worse and she began to walk in their direction, stomping her feet on the ground.


    *******


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 Chapter 255 - Navy Blue Or Black?

    Puffing her cheeks, she let her eyes roam around as she got back to her initial task, to look for the girl. She narrowed her eyes when she saw her still talking to the same customer. She just needed her help for a little while, but this man was taking so long to get done with his business. Her already messed up mood turned much worse and she began to walk in their direction, stomping her feet on the ground.


    "Excuse me." She spoke up in a not so polite manner once she was close to them. Her voice made them shift their attention to her, instead of the suits which Lizzy was holding in her hands.


    "I am sorry if I am troubling you, but I need her help with something." She spoke up, directly looking into the man''s eyes. In her riled up state, she didn''t pay much attention to the elderly man who was staring at her in his shock. "I won''t take much longer, so you can have her back after I am done." She continued as she crossed her arms over her chest, her right foot tapping on the floor which showed her impatience.


    Composing himself the elderly man fixed the lapels of his coat and smiled at her. "Why should I let you have things your way? I clearly came earlier than you and I found her standing around the corner all free."


    "But you are taking too long to get done with your shopping. I only need her for like five minutes barely. Can''t you wait?" Stella frowned and pursed her lips together, making the man chuckle.


    "Can''t you wait?" He replied back to her with an amused expression. He was for sure enjoying their little banter. It was way too obvious for anyone not to notice it, including her.


    "You shouldn''t be joking around with a lady half your age like this. Do you even know who I am?" She raised her chin slightly up in the air and narrowed her eyes at him.


    "I would never look at you in a wrong way." He frowned and turned his head towards Lizzy who was standing quietly by their side with her head bowed down. "You can go for now. Let me know if you need any help. Just leave a text for my P.A, he will take care of it." He spoke to her politely, asking her to leave them alone.


    "You have already helped me enough, thank you so much for your help so far." She nodded her head and gave him a bright smile. "By the way, I would go for the navy blue one." She added before walking away, leaving them alone just like he requested.


    "Do you think navy blue would look good on me?" He asked, shifting his attention back to her. He chuckled lightly once more when saw her confused expression. "Navy blue or black." He pointed towards the two formal suits which were hanging next to her.


    "Oh!" Stella pursed her lips as the realization sink in. He was referring to the suits. She shifted her attention from the two suits back to the man. After eyeing him for a few seconds, she nodded her head. "She''s right, navy blue." Stella answered him and was about to leave the man on his own but his next words stopped her in her tracks.


    "Of course I know you who are, Ms. Martin." He spoke up. "Or may I say, Mrs. Levinson." He gave her a smile.


    "You do realize how creepy it makes you look like. There aren''t many people who knows the surname I used to have before." She raised an eyebrow at him. She could tell that he did that deliberately to get her attention.


    "Now that I have your attention, why don''t we talk about something more important." He smiled at her. "May I ask why don''t you visit your parents'' graves?"


    "H-how?" That was the only world she could manage to say when he saw her looking intently at her.


    "I know a lot of things. But let me tell you one thing. I would harm you. I just can''t bring myself to do it. The resemblance between you two is uncanny." He gave her a sad smile before continuing. "I did something back then. Something I won''t say I am proud about. I lost the person who was most precious to me just because of my obsession. I could have loved her from afar, but I wanted to be by her side. And the mere thought of seeing her in another man''s arm, made me crazy."


    He raised a hand and patted the top of her head lovingly, as if he was doing it to a child of his own, while Stella continued to stay rooted to the spot in her shocked state, trying her best to make sense of his words.


    "I know you can never forgive me for that, no matter how many times I apologise. And I don''t want you to forgive me either when I haven''t forgiven myself in the first place. But I want to say this to you in person, at least for once in my life. I am sorry for what I did back then, little one." His eyes teared up as he apologized to her and rubbed the back of her head once again before retracting his hand.


    "You¡­." Stella failed to give him a reply. She wanted to yell at him. She wanted to yell at him and ask him why he did what he did. From all of the nonsense he had just spouted, she could clearly make out one thing, he was the one behind her parents'' death.


    "Why?" She questioned him as her eyes began to tear up.


    "I will answer every single one of your questions, but we don''t have much time before your boyfriend, I mean husband returns." He added as he began to fish something out of his coat''s pocket.


    "I don''t know what you are talking about?" She spoke up as she tried to avoid his gaze.


    "Haven''t he told you that you are a terrible liar? Just like your mother." She heard him say as a white handkerchief popped up before her eyes.


    "Just visit your parents'' graves this Sunday, but make sure you are alone. You could bring him with yourself, just ask him to leave you alone for some time. That man would kill me if I even try talking to you." He chuckled lightly as he shook the handkerchief before her eyes, silently asking her to take it.


    "You are an evil person." She took the white piece of cloth from his hand and muttered under her breath softly, but her voice was loud enough for him to hear.


    He broke into a small fit of laughter after hearing her response. "Just like your Mom uses to say." He took a glance towards his wrist watch and continued.


    "Look Stella, I just want to live the rest of the days I am left with in peace. I am not trying to redeem myself here, but I will protect whatever Rosaline left behind in this world . And that is you, so take it from the person who''s still in love with your mother. Don''t trust anyone around you, except for him. And stay away from Taylor Williamson as far as you can. He wants to repeat the history, walk down the same path of destruction as I did. I know it''s useless to stop him as the won''t listen to me."


    Stella interrupted him. "Who are you?"


    "I apologise for not introducing myself earlier. The name''s Carston, Carston Williamson. And yes, Taylor is my child." He nodded his head in a yes when he saw her shocked expressions.


    "And if you are looking for some more vibrant suits for him, you should ask the man at the reception. You have to place an order for it. Your mother used to hate monochromes and grays as well." He added and gave her a smile. "I better hurry out before your man comes back and punch me in the face." He turned around after picking up the navy blue suit from the display and began to walk away.


    "Hold on!" She spoke up. "How do I know that I can trust you now? I mean, you sort of¡­.. you what you did."


    "Well, it''s really up to whether or not to trust me. I just wanted to apologise to you once in person. It was sort of my last wish. I don''t have much time left anyways. I just hope you come this Sunday. And it''s fine even if you don''t." He shrugged his shoulders and continued to walk towards the direction of the cash counter.


    *******


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 Chapter 256 - James Bond Movies

    "What''s wrong?" ?Adam? asked her as he tried to keep his eyes fixed on the road ahead of him. They were now driving to the hospital as Stella had an appointment with her gynaecologist, and the man would never leave a chance to be there with his dear little wife. He was too excited about it as it would be the first time that he would be accompanying her. But his level of excitement had died down after he returned back to the store where he had left her earlier.


    The woman next to him, was already done with shopping for him. She had gotten a couple of formal suits for him and some casual wear as well, even though wasn''t lacking either of them back at his apartment. ''Thinking about that, he better shift his belongings to her penthouse.'' He made a mental note and put it down on his to do list.


    "What has gotten into you?" He questioned her again when he didn''t receive any response from her.


    "Nothing." She finally replied to him with a single word as she kept her gaze fixed to the buildings on the other side of the tinted windows.


    "I am sorry that it took me long with that call. You had to do my shopping on your own." He glanced at her and apologized before shifting his attention back to the road.


    Without even realizing, he had spent longer at the jewellery store as he tried to find something unique for her. The small square shaped box was now peacefully snuggled inside one of the shopping bags which were resting on the back seat of the car.


    "Are you crazy?" She finally snapped her head in his direction when she heard him apologizing to her, the guilt in his voice was too obvious to go unnoticed by her. Everytime they were alone or in the confinements of the car, he would use his own voice. "I don''t mind shopping for you at all. In fact, it''s something that I enjoy dearly." She scolded him a little.


    "By the way, I always forget to ask you one thing." She spoke as she shifted in her seat slightly, facing towards him. "How do you it?" She questioned him, narrowing her eyes. "Did you get a device fixed in your throat which turns on and off by a button you always keep on yourself, or you control it with your?"


    After hearing the latter part, the confusion in his eyes died down as loud chuckle resonated through the quietness inside the car.


    "Don''t tell me it''s something more fancy? Like you control the voice modular thingy with your brain." Stella looked at him with her widened eyes which glowed with excitement.


    Keeping his attention ahead, he replied to her with a bright smile. "Sorry to break your heart, my dear wifey, but it ain''t something fancy like you are imagining it to be. It''s actually something really basic." He began to explain it to her as he made a wide U turn and pulled the car up in the driveway of a restaurant. His wife demanded that she wanted to eat something Italian, so here they were before the most famous Italian restaurant of Berlin.


    After unfastening his seatbelt he leaned over to her side and unbuckled hers as well. He pulled her to his side, making her sit on his lap. Clearing his throat, he continued. "When I was a kid, I had this obsession with unique things and talents. I wanted to try every single thing which was able to hold my interest. One of those things was how to mimic someone else. Though I suck at it, at least I can modulate my voice." He gave her a proud smirk only receive a smack on his left shoulder.


    "And here I thought it was something like those James Bond movies." She pursed her lips in a pout and gave him an unsatisfied look.


    "I told you it''s just a basic thing." He rubbed the back of her head head lovingly before pulling her into his embrace. "I am sorry for making you do the shopping on your own." He spoke above her head which was nestled securely in the crook of his neck. He was happy that her mood was better than before. He couldn''t ask her the reason on his own, he knew that she would tell him on her own if she wanted to. Or it might have been something related to the take over which was troubling her.


    "Ugh!" She groaned in annoyance and bit down the skin of his neck lightly. "Apologise to me one more time, and I will punch you where the Sun never shines." She spoke against his neck threateningly.


    "Alright, Ma''am. I won''t dare to do." He replied, hugging her closer.


    Stella returned his hug, clutching his waist tightly as she became lost in her own thoughts again. She wanted to tell him about what had happened earlier, about the man who had popped out of nowhere and threw a bomb at her in their first meeting, the very same man who was apparently behind the accident which had killed her parents. She wanted to bring it into his knowledge, at the same time she had so many questions on her mind.


    Why come clean before her, wasn''t he afraid that she would go and tell Adam all of the nonsense he had told her about. If he claimed to love her mother so much, he wouldn''t kill her, right? Moreover, what was with him being all so emotional. What was she supposed to do now? Was she supposed to believe him and go to the graveyard and visit their graves? It had been long since she did that. The last time she visited them, was when she ran away from her so called home.


    "Are you okay?" His words brought her out of her thoughts and she nodded, still clinging on to his figure.


    "I just wanted to hug for longer." She spoke  against his neck before letting go his waist as she moved a bit away from. An unsettling emotion engulfed her heart at the loss of his warmth


    "I thought my little vixen was hungry." ?Adam? question her as he tucked a couple of locks begin her right ear. Ever since she had gotten this new hair cut, she hardly tied them up in a high pony and they were always let loose.


    "I still am." She bobbed her head up and down a couple of times. "Our babies wanted to hug their father." She added with a smile.


    He hummed softly as he pinched both of her cheeks. "Can our babies kindly tell their mother that she doesn''t need a reason to hug their father? She can just cling to him for as long as she wants. He doesn''t mind it." He added. He could always see right through her. They were like open books to each other.


    Stella just shook her head sideways and smiled brightly. "They are saying it''s done. Message conveyed. Do you need them to pass any other message to their mother?"


    "Oh, since they are asking, there is one." He replied to her silly question in his own silly way. Cupping her small face in between his palms, he leaned forward, resting his forehead against hers. Gazing into her hazel orbs, he spoke up. "Can you ask them to tell their mother how madly in love their father is with her?"


    "I love you too." This time she replied to him right away as the corners of her eyes began to turn red, not bothering to twist her words. She repeated the same line once more before crashing her lips over his.


    *******


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 Chapter 257 - Anxious

    ?Adam''s? eyes lingered around the room as the duo waited for the doctor to arrive.


    After having a four dishes lunch and making sure that his little vixen was well fed, he had driven her right to the hospital. The couple was now sitting inside Dr. Matilda''s office as they waited for her. She was with another patient at the moment, in the room right next to her office.


    ?Adam? was not only excited, but at the same time, he was anxious. Despite the cold weather, he could feel his palms sweating as he rubbed them together to ease the tension building up in his body. His eyes shifted to the woman sitting next to him, leaning against the back of her chair. Her one elbow was resting on the arm rest as she held her phone in it. Every now and then, her thumb would swipe over the screen, scrolling to the next email.


    Looking at her relaxed self, he couldn''t help but frown. He wouldn''t be shocked if someone was to say that he was the one who was about to be checked up by a gynaecologist, not her.


    "Hey?" He called out softly to get her attention as he leaned his face in.


    Stella hummed lightly in response and looked up from her phone''s screen. "What?" She pursed her lips and questioned him when he didn''t continue further.


    "I''m becoming more and more anxious with each passing second." He muttered before her lips as the frown on his forehead deepened. For him, there was no shame in admitting his fears as long as the other person before him was his wife. Thinking of that, he couldn''t come up with anything else which could even make him flinch except for her, let alone cause him to worry.


    A light giggle resonated through the quietness of the office which was no less than the jingling sound of Santa''s sleigh to him. He saw her putting her phone down on her lap before her palms found their way to his cheeks.


    "You are so cute at times." She pinched his cheeks and added.


    "At times?" ?Adam? gave her a questioning look only to get a firm nod in response.


    She leaned her face in and placed a light kiss on the tip of his nose before her lips curled up in a bright smile again. "Yeah! You are cute at times." She repeated her words from earlier. "And stop worrying about it, or your frown will become permanent soon." She raised her right hand up and traced her fingers over the V in between his brows.


    "It''s just¡­" His words trailed off as he failed to find the right words. He wanted to share his worries with her, but couldn''t put them in words.


    As if knowing what was going in his mind, Stella pinched his nose this time. "I felt the same way when it was my first time here. So, it''s completely fine if you are feeling anxious." She rubbed the top of his head and added.


    Though it was her who was about to be examined, she could understand why he was worrying so much about it. He had always been like that. He wouldn''t care about his own self even when he gets severely ill, but a single sneeze from her could make him go all stressed. And now the examination not only involved her, it was about their babies, how could he not go crazy.


    "I''m sorry to keep you waiting for long." The door flew open and Dr. Matilda walked inside. She apologized to the duo as soon as she stepped inside. Her resolute voice was able to get the attention of the duo, making them turn their heads.


    "It''s completely fine." Stella spoke as she gave her a polite. "I can understand that you have other patients as well." She added as the doctor settled in her seat.


    "I actually had a patient before you who was late for her appointment, but I decided to check her up because you weren''t here yet. Hope you don''t mind that." Dr. Matilda looked up from the desk as she spoke. She was about to continue further but stopped herself when she realized that Stella wasn''t alone but had a man accompanying her. Her eyes lingered over his expressionless face before they moved back to Stella.


    Seeing the questioning look in her eyes, Stella just nodded her head silently. She should have informed her earlier that she wasn''t going to come alone. But it wouldn''t have been easy to explain to her as to why a man was accompanying me on my appointment.


    "Umm¡­ So, we will get you checked up soon and see how your twins are doing. You know how it works, you need to change your clothes first before we go on the check up part. And if anyone wants to accompany you during it, they can." Dr. Matilda continued after getting her permission that it was okay to talk before the man. She added the latter sentence deliberately as she didn''t know what was the relationship between these two, and the man was definitely not Stella''s husband.


    "Alright." Stella nodded and just smiled at her. She could tell what was going on in her the doctor''s as it was way too obvious from her expressions. For the world, her husband, Adam Levinson, was still missing.


    The duo quietly followed the doctor to the adjacent room where ?Adam? and Dr. Matilda decided to give Stella some privacy as she needed to change into hospital clothes.


    ?Adam? kept his eyes fixed on the floor while they waited for Stella to get done. He could feel that a pair of eyes were lingering on hai figure as if they were trying to read him through. It didn''t need a genius to tell who was the owner of those eyes as there was no one else in the room except for the doctor and him. He couldn''t blame her though. Curiosity was incorporated within the human genome.


    "I am done." Stella spoke up from the other side of the dark blue curtains and informed them.


    "Come on in if you want to." Dr. Matilda spoke up as she began to head in the direction of the curtained space.


    Shrugging his shoulders at her words, he quietly followed the doctor inside. There was no way that he would stay outside and let Stella be on her own. Her doctor was allowed to think whatever she wanted to about them, but he wasn''t going to stay back.


    ?Adam? continued to stand quietly next to the bed on which his woman was lying down as the doctor began to examine her belly with an ultrasound probe. He observed the entire process quietly as the doctor continued to move the probe over her abdomen, his eyes shifting from her figure to the screen where some black and white shadows could be seen. He wanted to hold her hand to reassure her, but it looked as if he was the one who needed her reassurance.


    "Well, there are your babies." The doctor''s voice brought him out of his thoughts, making him turn his attention to the monitor where two miniature humans could be seen as the babies were already two months old.


    *******


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 Chapter 258 - Let Me Dote On My Wife

    "Well, there are your babies." The doctor''s voice brought him out of his thoughts, making him turn his attention to the monitor where two miniature humans could be seen as the babies were already two months old.


    With his eyes still fixed on the monitor''s screen, his hands moved to find hers, which was resting on the bed. The corners of his eyes began to glisten up with unshed tears as he tried to keep his emotions in check. He couldn''t burst into tears before the doctor. Interlacing their fingers together, he finally moved his eyes from the screen to his woman.


    "Thank you." He managed to utter while suppressing his emotions. His lips curled up in a faint smile when he saw her winking in his direction.


    "The babies are doing fine and they seem healthy so far. It''s still too early to tell their genders, but we could tell you that in three more months when the babies will be five months old." Dr. Matilda spoke up as she continued to move the probe over the lower half of her abdomen. She pressed a number of buttons of the keyboard as she took multiple monochromic shots of the twins.


    After she was sure that everything was fine, she out down the probe back in its initial position. "You can change back into your clothes after wiping the gel off your belly. I will wait for you in the office where we can discuss it further." She spoke up before heading out of the curtained portion, leaving the duo alone. Though it was weird for her, she could tell that they needed to talk.


    After the doctor had disappeared from his sight ?Adam? finally moved from his position, letting go of her hand. He took out a couple of tissue papers from the box and walked back to her side. He began to wipe off the gel quietly as Stella continued to look up at his serious expressions. He was too immersed in the task to even notice that his woman was ogling at him.


    Placing a kiss on her exposed belly, he shifted his attention to her. "Let''s get you changed." He spoke against her belly before he discarded the crumpled, sticky bunch of the used tissue papers. Picking her clothes up from the chair, he walked back to her side to help her out.


    "I can do it myself." Stella frowned at the way he was treating her. She was just two months pregnant and this man was already in an over protective mode. She was about to ask him to leave when she felt him tugging at the hem of the hospital gown, but his next words forced her to keep her mouth shut.


    "Let me dote on my wife." He pressed a soft kiss on the crown of her head before getting back to the task at hand.


    A couple of minutes later, the duo walked out and headed to the adjacent room which the doctor''s office. As soon as they settled in the seats across her, the doctor hand out a white envelope to Stella.


    "You will find an ultrasonic picture in there." She spoke up. "The babies are doing completely fine. All you need to do is to take care of yourself. Make sure that you don''t lift any heavy weight or stress yourself out. You can eat anything which is fine by you as long as it''s fresh and doesn''t cause your body to have a reaction. Like I told you earlier, make sure that fruits and vegetables are properly washed before you consume. Even though they are cooked, make sure to wash them properly."


    "Gotcha." Stella nodded her head as she paid attention to her every single word. Though she already knew all of this by now, it''s better to listen to the same lines again and again to make sure you don''t miss on a single thing which may cause any problem later on.


    "And please, stop eating those fast foods and all which you crave so much, and it includes pizza. Just ask your chef to make you the same thing at home." Dr. Matilda added as she narrowed her eyes at the woman sitting across her. "I don''t want to hear on your next appointment that you are still eating those."


    "Uh¡­ sure. I have stopped eating those." Stella could nod her head and smile at her doctor. She was already mentally preparing herself for the scolding that was about to receive. There was no way that her man would let this matter go. She was only hoping that his mind was elsewhere when the woman said all of that. But the heated gaze coming from her right was telling otherwise.


    "I will see you on your next appointment. If you start to feel nauseated, you don''t have to worry about it. It''s normal to have morning sickness in early months of pregnancy. And if you get nauseated from eating a particular food item, then avoid eating it." Dr. Matilda spoke up as she saw the couple standing up. "And if you feel any sort of pain or discomfort in your lower belly, call me right away." She added.


    "Alright, I will keep that in mind. Thank you so much." Stella replied to her. She was about to head towards the door with ?Adam? in tow when a sudden thought popped up in her mind, which caused her to stop in her tracks.


    "I am sorry for troubling you, but I had a query." Stella spoke up as she scratched the back of her head.


    "It''s fine. You can ask me anything." Dr. Matilda shook her sideways and asked her to shoot her question.


    "Is it okay to have sexual intercourse in pregnancy?" Hesitatingly, she managed to ask her. It wasn''t only her husband who wanted to know the answer to her question. She wanted to know it as well. It was becoming so hard for her to keep her distance from him, especially because he had a habit of sleeping with his shirt off. How was she supposed to keep her core in check if she was to wake up each day with him by her side. It would be an understatement if she calls his body a delicacy for her.


    "Oh!" The doctor looked up at the duo and answered her. "It''s usually fine to have sex after the first two months."


    Stella heaved out a relaxed sigh when she heard the doctor''s words. Her body was rushing with happiness as she couldn''t wait to finally have him inside her. But her happiness didn''t last for long when she heard the doctor''s next words.


    "But you are pregnant with twins. I wouldn''t suggest it. It''s already too much for a woman''s body to nurture twins or triplets, that having sexual intercourse may lead to preterm labour and even miscarriage at times. You can use other methods to please yourself which doesn''t involve penetration. I wouldn''t have suggested that if the placenta was located too low in your uterus. But since it''s located in the top one-third, it''s fine to have orgasms."


    After a brief pause, she continued. "Look Stella, I can understand that a woman''s body is more demanding during pregnancy because of the hormones and all, but it''s better if you don''t have sexual intercourse until the babies are out in the world."


    "Alright. Thank you so much. I will keep that in mind." Stella could only smile at her before the duo headed out of the room. She didn''t forget to hide her face as she put on her large shades and walked with her head slightly lowered with ?Adam? walking next to her.


    *******


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 Chapter 259 - A Guilty Child

    With an ashen face, ?Adam? was sitting in the driver''s seat with Stella sitting next to him in the shotgun seat. Every now and then, she would steal a glance in his direction as he continued to sit quietly in his seat. With every glance, she would purse her lips more together, trying her best to suppress the laughter which was threatening to burst through her lips.


    When she couldn''t take it anymore, she let her lips loose and a loud, heartfelt laughter slaughtered through the quietness engulfing the car. With her hands resting on her stomach, she laughed out loud, trying to not roll down of her seat.


    ?Adam''s? expression turned more dark when he saw her laughing at his expense. The mere thought of not being able to feel her warm, wet core around his member, was enough to ruin his mood. And now, here he was, being laughed at.


    "Don''t you dare to think that I have forgotten about you eating pizzas all day long even though your doctor said no to them." He gritted his teeth. His words were enough to stop her laughing fit.


    Like a guilty child, Stella sat up straight in her seat with her eyes casted down on her knotted fingers which were resting on her lap.


    "What happened? Why aren''t you laughing now?" He questioned her again, shifting slightly in his seat so that he was facing her. He shook his head sideways when he didn''t get a response from her. "Sweetheart, why are you so neglectful towards your health? I am not saying this because you are pregnant. I am saying this for you. You do know how concerned I am when it comes to your health."


    She nodded her head in response. "It was before my previous appointment. You know how much I was craving for some cheesy dish. I didn''t eat them after getting a scolding from her last time." She muttered softly, still keeping her eyes fixed on her lap.


    A light sarcastic chuckle was heard before she felt herself being pulled in his laps. "Do you take me as a fool?" He spoke next to her ear after making sure that she was comfortable settled in his lap. "Are you forgetting that my first day on job as David, I went back to your place with you. And guess what I was eating when you broke that glass vase? Some leftover pizza which definitely had double the amount of cheese than usual."


    His words shut her mouth down. He was right. She was too stupid to even think that she could fool him this easily. Before she could say anything else, he continued. "And if you were craving something cheesy, you could have just asked the chef to make it for you."


    "I''m sorry." She muttered meekly as she shifted slightly in his lap and buried her face in the crook of his neck.


    "It''s not about sorry, my love. It''s about your health. And you do know that our babies solely depend on you for their nutrition." He added, hugging her closer.


    "I will be more careful about the things I eat from onwards." She spoke up against his neck.


    "Of course, you will. I will be there to keep an eye on you from now on." He stroked the back of her head before placing a kiss on top of her crown. "By the way, why did you shift to that penthouse? I keep forgetting to ask you about it. Moreover, why was there no one there back then besides you. I mean not even a single maid." He questioned her.


    The duo had been using their room at the company for sleeping and showering as both of them were too busy dealing with their works regarding the take over. Every department was supposed to submit their files to the vice president of the company as soon as they get done with every assigned task. The vice president, in turn, was supposed to submit them to her through her personal assistant, David.


    Parker was too busy dealing with the arrangements of the banquet which would take place after the takeover of R&E Group of Companies to celebrate the hard work of their employees and to announce the good news to the remaining business world. Hence, Stella asked him to just pass the files directly to her, without making sure that everything was done perfectly. She decided to do it herself as it would not be good overwork the poor guy.


    Engulfed in their busy routines, the couple barely got any time left for each other. It was during the meals that they were able to enjoy each other''s company, or at night when Adam would force her to sleep after snatching away all of her files. Their busy routines confined them to the company premises, not letting them go back to her penthouse and relax for a while.


    "Are you going to answer me or not, sweetheart." ?Adam? asked her when he didn''t get a response from her.


    "Umm¡­." Stella tried her best to put her thoughts into words, but failed to do so.


    "Take your time, my love. I am not going anywhere before you answer me, and neither are you." He tightened his hold around her and murmured in her ear.


    After a minute or two, Stella finally answered him. "After I found out about the babies I decided to shift to the penthouse. I asked Blake to help me with it as I couldn''t do it on my own. He is the one who actually found that penthouse and asked someone to not only renovate it, but incorporate technology in it as well."


    After a pause, she continued. "The reason why I made the decision to shift from the mansion, was you. It wasn''t easy for me to live there when every single inch of the place reminded me of you. It reminded me of how you were gone, or went missing. All the time I spent with you there, it came rushing to my mind. Especially after finding out that I was pregnant, that too with twins. I wasn''t supposed to stress as it wouldn''t be good for the babies. So I decided that it would be better if I shift somewhere else."


    After listening to the woman in his arms, ?Adam? pressed a lingering kiss on her forehead and hugged her tighter. He wanted to offer her some comforting words, but he knew it would not make up for the pain she suffered then.


    "I won''t say that shifting to a new place completely helped me then, but it did help in decreasing the bouts of loneliness hitting me. I wanted to send Uncle Rob to the old mansion as I didn''t want him to be there all alone, but he turned me down, saying that he would prefer to stay there and look after the mansion until we return." She added with a sad smile. "So, I pay him a visit every now and then."


    "As for why there are no maids back at the penthouse. I didn''t want many people around me. So they just come early in the morning, and leave after cleaning up the place and taking the laundry with them. And since Uncle Rob assigned them for me, I trust them." She continued to answer the bunch of questions he had thrown her way earlier.


    ?Adam? just hummed in return after hearing her. A frown marred his forehead when he felt her moving in his arms as she moved away from him. He was about to question her sudden actions, but she beat him to it.


    "That reminds me, I haven''t paid him a visit since you came back. Damn! What must he be thinking about me? We should pay him a visit tomorrow. It''s Sunday anyways, and we don''t have much work left."


    "Yeah! We should." He replied to her with a firm nod. "I owe him an apology as well."


    "Are you going to accompany me as your own self?" She questioned him, furrowing her eyebrows.


    "No. But he would see through this right away." He answered her, pointing his index finger towards his disguised face. "I grew up before his eyes. Moreover, he is way smarter than you are, definitely not easy to fool." He added the latter part with a smirk.


    "Did you just call me stupid?" Stella narrowed her eyes at him.


    "When did I say that?" He blinked his eyes a couple of times, acting out all innocent. "I just said that he''s smarter than you. If you consider yourself to be stupid, I don''t have a problem with that." He shrugged his shoulders.


    She looked at his face with a baffled expression. She so wanted to wipe off that smug look from his face. "You¡­. You are the one who''s stupid." She clenched her jaw and threw a couple of harmless punches on his toned chest, causing him to let out a hearty laugh.


    ''I promise that I won''t make you go through it ever again, my baby girl.'' He thought to himself as he continued to gaze lovingly at her figure as the woman refused to stop with her punches, not that he minded them. As long as it wasn''t his injured shoulder which was taking the blow, he could still take a professional fighter''s punches.


    ''I really need to hit the gym again.'' He made a mental note. It was better for him to get back into shape again as soon as he could. He couldn''t fight the war with this unfit body. An entire month''s rest had really hit his body hard, especially after all those injuries.


    *******


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 Chapter 260 - Scaredy Cat

    "What''s wrong with you?" Stella questioned the man standing next to her with a troubled expression marring his face. The moment the duo had arrived at the place, he had been acting weird, refusing to step out of the car.


    "It''s not a good idea. I think you should just go and meet him on your own. I will just wait for you in the car." ?Adam? answered her, keeping his eyes set on the mansion before them. He knew that he was going to get a good scolding by the old man the very moment he would step inside. But that wasn''t what troubled him more.


    "Don''t tell me that you are scared of being scolded by Uncle Rob?" She teased him a little while poking his shoulder with her index finger. It didn''t need a genius to guess what was going on in his mind. "How old are you? Two?" She added with a lop-sided grin.


    He shook his head in a no in response to her teasing remarks. "He sort of raised me up. I am not worried about some scolding. The thing I am more concerned about is that I won''t be able to hold my emotions back once I see him." He heaved out a frustrated sigh. "And you know how big of a problem that could create for us if any one end up seeing me like that."


    "Can you stop worrying about everything? I know you have to be careful about your actions for now. But you can''t just stop living your life, can you?" Stella spoke up, giving him a dissatisfied look. "The man I fell in love with, wasn''t such a scaredy cat. I wonder if something hit your head when you were trying to find your way out through the rubble of the project site." Giving him one more pitiful look, she stepped out of the car, leaving him on his own.


    --------


    "Good morning, Uncle Rob." Stella stepped inside the kitchen and greeted the old butler with a big smile embracing her lips. Her loud and cheery voice was enough to get the attention of the maids who were working there. They greeted her one after the other with the respect which she deserved being the lady of the house.


    "Good morning, Young Miss." The old butler walked up to her and greeted her back. Shifting his attention back to the maids, he motioned them to leave them alone to which they complied right away.


    Stella looked around the kitchen which was now empty and walked upto the kitchen counter. "How many times do I have to tell you that you can call me by name? Do you know how old I feel when you address me so professionally? You want a girl to become conscious about her age and her looks." She gave him a displeased look and spoke up. On her every visit to the mansion, she would ask him to call her by her name all the time, but the man refused to listen to her.


    "You know I can''t do that." The old butler chuckled lightly and walked up to her. "What do you want to eat for lunch today? I will cook it myself." He spoke up and patted the top of her head.


    "Anything which has lots of cheese in it." She shrugged in response before settling herself down on one of the stools. "And before you ask me, they are doing absolutely fine." She added with a bright smile.


    "That''s good." He smiled back at her, clearly knowing to whom she was referring to. He was the only person who knew about her pregnancy back then when she left the mansion. Though he found out on his own about it, Stella couldn''t lie to him either when he questioned her about it.


    "How about a casserole?" Stella was about to say yes, but stopped herself when she realized that it wasn''t the old butler who questioned her, the voice rather came from behind her. She fought the urge to roll her eyes when she turned around to look behind her.


    "Am I supposed to take your scowl as a yes, or is it a no?" ?Adam?, who was leaning against the wall next to him, spoke up again. "Good morning." He trailed his eyes away from the figure of his woman, who was still glaring at him, and spoke to the other person in the room, greeting him with a single from nod.


    Stella continued to sit quietly in her position, her eyes moving from one person to the other as they stared at each other.


    After a while, the old butler finally spoke up, replying to the greeting. "Good morning¡­.. Young Master." His voice was barely audible for the other two persons, but they could still make out his words.


    The corners of ?Adam''s? lips turned upwards after hearing the way the old butler had addressed him. He could see the corners of his eyes becoming moist as the old man smiled at him.


    "I''m glad to have you back." The old butler added, keeping his voice low.


    "I''m glad to be back home." ?Adam? spoke up as he walked up to where Stella was sitting. Shifting his attention to his little elf, he hugged her from behind. "You forgot the fruit basket back in the car. You did that deliberately, didn''t you?" He muttered next to her ear before biting it lightly.


    "Someone had to do something about your ''scaredy little arse''." She teased him a little before turning her attention to the old man who was standing across her. "Uncle Rob, he will be the one to cook for us today. Please, I insist." She requested him, knowing fully well that either of the two men wouldn''t turn her down. And just like she had predicted, they agreed to her right away.


    After spending a little while with the two youngsters, the old butler decided to leave them on their own and excused himself.


    --------


    "What did you just say?" Taylor spoke into his phone''s speaker, yelling at the person on the other end.


    "She brought a man with her this time." A hushed female voice came through. She sounded like she was in her late thirties or early forties.


    "Who''s the man?" He questioned her.


    "I don''t know. I have never seen him before with her. It''s usually just her whenever she visits the old man. So, I can''t really say." Her hushed response made its way into his ear, enraging him further.


    "Where are they now?" He asked the woman.


    "In the kitchen. He''s cooking lunch for her." She replied to him in the same hushed voice.


    "Okay! You listen to me carefully now. I want you to your encrypted phone and click a picture of the man and send it to me, right now. Make sure that you capture his face clearly." He ordered her, gritting his teeth.


    "I will try my best." She answered him before disconnecting the call.


    Seething with rage, Taylor kept his eyes fixed on his phone''s screen as he waited for his minion to do her job. If his doubts were right, then he had a good idea about the identity of the man. There was only man who she had been hanging around with, whether it was at the company or somewhere else. The spies he had planted within the company, were providing him information about her every move, especially how she was always with that personal assistant of hers.


    ''Looks like I have to take another piece of crap out of my path before I make you mine, sweetheart.'' He thought inwardly.


    A single beep which came from the phone he was clutching on to, forced him to come out of his thoughts. Clicking on the notification, he opened the text that the maid had sent him. A picture which was clearly taken secretly from the slightly parted window, lit up on his phone''s screen. True to his doubts, the man who was hanging around the mansion with the woman he wanted so badly to be his, was none other than that pesky personal assistant.


    The more he looked at the picture, the more his hatred for the man increased. Looking at the woman of his dreams smiling because of some other man, he wanted nothing but to wrap his hands around the man''s neck.


    "Sooner or later, I will have my way with you, David Morrison." He muttered to himself, keeping his eyes fixed on the picture.


    *******


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 Chapter 261 - Caught Red-handed

    Later at night,


    A lone figure of a woman was standing before the floor to ceiling glass wall which looked over the skyline of Berlin. Her eyes were set on the midnight sky which was splattered with hues of dark blue and gray. The crescent shaped moon was shining in the distance, its light seeping through the gray curtains which were trying their best to hide its illuminating figure.


    With her mind still occupied with thoughts, she shifted her gaze to the golden card in her hand. Raising it up in the air, she let the pale lights of her office hit the card as she held it in between her index and middle finger.


    --------


    *FLASHBACK*


    "Is this all, Ma''am?" The saleslady questioned her as she was preparing her bill to which she nodded. "The other suit which you placed an order for would take around seven to ten days. It will be delivered to the address you have provided us with." She added after getting her confirmation.


    "Thank you." Stella thanked her in return. She had actually listened to the creepy man from earlier and placed an order for a customized suit for her man. She would more than love to see him wear some other color besides the usual dull colors he usually goes for.


    After getting her receipt and card back from the saleslady, she was about to walk out of the store but a familiar voice stopped her in her tracks.


    "Excuse me, Ma''am."


    She turned around only to find the girl from earlier standing a couple of feet away from her. Her eyes shifted to her name tag for a fleeting second as she confirmed her name, Lizzy. She walked up to her and gave her a polite smile. "Yes, Lizzy."


    The girl awkwardly scratched the back of her head and extended her other hand in her direction which was holding a golden card. "This¡­ this for you. He¡­ asked me to give it to you." She managed to speak with a flustered expression, keeping her voice low.


    Stella looked at her face in confusion before taking the card from her. She rotated it in between her fingers so that she could have a better look at the bold, black letters.


    ''CARSTON WILLIAMSON.''


    She fought the urge to roll her eyes at the cheekiness of the man. ''A golden colored card, seriously? You could have at least gone for a decent shade of it.'' She thought to herself as a frown marred her forehead.


    Turning it around, she saw some words scribbled on its other side. It was easy to make the words out when a ball point was used to write them over the cards glazing surface.


    ''Just leave a text at this number whenever you have made your mind. It does not have to be a Sunday.


    -CW!''


    "Thank you, Lizzy." Stella shifted her attention to the girl who was still standing before her with her head lowered down.


    "You are welcome." She replied to her meekly.


    Stella gave her a smile as she tucked the card under the back cover of her phone. "I gotta go now." She spoke up as her eyes moved to look behind the girl''s figure. Through the transparent glass wall, she could see her man walking towards the door.


    *FLASHBACK ENDS*


    ---------


    A light click sound dragged her back to reality. She hurriedly walked away from the glass wall and tucked the card quietly under the pile of files resting on her desk, making a mental note to take it out from there later on.


    "What are you doing behind my back?" ?Adam''s? word slashed through the silence engulfing the office as he walked out of the room.


    His words made her stop in her tracks. She could feel her heart beating in her chest as her mouth ran dry. ''It was the first time that I was hiding something from him and I was caught red-handed.'' She thought to herself. Her palms began to sweat when she saw him glaring in her direction as he walked up to where she was standing.


    "What were you doing behind my back?" He repeated his words from earlier as his steps came to halt next to her.


    ''Damn it, Stella. Just tell him the truth.'' She readied her mind for the scolding which was about to come her way after she uttered the whole truth. "Ah..I..I-I¡­" Avoiding his gaze, she began to explain it to him but her words failed her. Biting down her lower lip, she started to speak again, but the man interrupted her.


    "I go to have a shower and this what you do?" He clenched his jaw. "What did I say about working at this hour? It''s a big no. Is it that hard for you to get it?" He continued to glare at her lowered face as he tried to keep his anger at bay. ''Exactly how many times does I have to scold her before she actually listens to me.''


    Stella, who was looking down at her feet like a guilty child who was caught stealing candies, whipped her head up and looked at his face. She pondered over his words before she moved her eyes to her hand which was still on the desk. It was resting on top of the pile of files, there was no golden colored card in her line sight. Her eyes slowly moved to the bottom of the pile of files for merely a second before she moved them back to the aggrieved man.


    "Hold your horses man." She raised an eyebrow at him as she composed herself. "I am not working at this hour. I was just gazing out at the night sky, you do know that I have a thing for it. I was about to return to the room because I was starting to feel sleepy. Just as I was on my way back I saw that the top most file wasn''t placed properly, so I was just fixing it when you walked in on me." She pursed her lips in a pout as she complained to him.


    "How do I believe that you are not lying to me?" Adam, who was no longer in disguise, questioned her, narrowing his eyes at her figure.


    A frown marred her forehead as the feeling of being guilty engulfed her heart. "Well, it''s just not you who loves our babies. I probably love more than you do because they were there to make me strong at the time when you were not here. If it wasn''t for them, I don''t know where I would have been now." She turned her face away from him as she answered him.


    ''At least that''s not a lie.'' She thought to herself as a sad smile graced her face. "I would never over work myself and put my body under stress because I know it would be harmful for my little angels." She added before walking away from him, heading towards the room. She was feeling really bad for hiding about her meeting with Carston, but she didn''t have any other choice. Knowing him, he would probably cause a ruckus about it. ''I''m so sorry.''


    *******


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 Chapter 262 - Dictator Husband

    Looking at her departing figure, Adam felt guilt rising up in his body, wrapping around his entire being. "Good job, Adam." He muttered under his breath, sarcasm dripping off from his every word. He didn''t want to upset her or mean to sound rude even in the slightest bit, but his words failed him, or it may be the way he placed them out.


    Heaving out a long sigh, he groaned in annoyance when Stella was no longer in his line of sight. "You better fix this, you moron." He scolded himself before his feet began to move in the direction of the room. He knew he needed to fix it as soon as possible. His frail heart wouldn''t be able to see her upset. He would prefer her to lash out on him, rather than staying quiet with a sad smile embracing her delectable lips.


    "Stella?" Peeking inside the room, he called out softly. He fought the urge to punch himself right I''m the face when he saw her lying down quietly in the bed with her back facing towards the door, a woolen comforter was covering her body up to her shoulders.


    He quietly stepped inside the room and closed the door as quietly as he could. With light steps, he walked up to her and climbed on the bed. "I am sorry." He muttered next to her ear as he wrapped himself around her covered figure.


    Stella continued to stay still, not bothering to reply to her as she tried to focus on the copper shaded bedside lamp. It wasn''t because she didn''t want to reply to him, it was the guilt of hiding things from him. It would have been better if he had not caught her as she was trying to hide the card. Now she was feeling much worse for lying to him. And here he was, apologizing to her for something he wasn''t responsible for. It wasn''t him who ruined her mood, it was her own guilt which was making her sad.


    "Stella?" He called her name softly and hugged her tighter. "I really didn''t mean it. I am sorry that my words came out like that. Never in my life, would I want to hurt you in anyway. And I know I have, I know I hurt you when I left you behind. And I won''t ask for your forgiveness. I want you to hold me responsible for every pain that you felt during that period. Punish me for it, my baby girl. But talk to me." He muttered.


    "Idiot." She turned around and pushed him away a little so that she could look at his face. "Stop blaming yourself for whatever happened then. It wasn''t your fault even in the slightest bit. Blame my husband one more time, and I will not talk to you for an entire day, maybe for even longer than that." She added with a pout.


    "As you say, my love. But will my lovely wife bother to explain to this foolish husband of hers, what happened to her mood all so suddenly if it wasn''t for my words or me?" He questioned her before pressing his lips against her forehead. "Tell me, sweetheart." He muttered against her forehead, not moving his lips away.


    "It''s not you, Adam. It''s actually¡­.." She trailed off, her mind a mess as she tried to come up to a decision. After a minute or two of thinking things over, she continued. "It''s actually¡­ my parents. I was missing them. I haven''t paid them a visit since I ran from Amsterdam."


    "That''s it? You could have told me this earlier." He pinched her cheeks. "Why don''t we pay them a visit tomorrow?" He suggested her, just like she had predicted.


    "But tomorrow is an office day, and we can''t take an off at such a crucial time. We only have a week left to finish off the preparations before R&E Group of Companies becomes a subsidiary of Levinson''s Corp." She shook her head sideways.


    "You do have a valid point. We can go next weekend. What about Saturday? Since we have a banquet to attend on Sunday." He asked her to which she first nodded her head in a yes before shaking it sideways.


    "We could do that, but I want to visit them really badly. If you don''t mind, can I suggest something?" She looked up at him and asked, giving him a pleading look.


    "Ahan." He added in response, narrowing his eyes at her. ''Why am I having a bad feeling about this?''


    "We can''t skip office or leave the company to run on its own for an entire day, that too when the workload is too much, right?" She stopped for a while and continued after she got a nod from him. "But what if you stay back at the company and make sure that everything runs smoothly here. I can go to Amsterdam on my own. Edward can be my driver." She gave him an uneasy smile as she looked at him with hopeful eyes.


    Instead of replying to her, he continued to observe the minor changes in her expressions. "No."  A single word escaped his lips in reply to her ''idea'' before he untangled himself from her and sat up straight on the bed.


    "Adam." She followed the suit and ended up sitting, but instead of sitting next to him, she hugged him from behind. Resting her face against his back, she continued. "Please, Adam. It''s been years since I last visited them. I was too afraid to even step inside the premises of Amsterdam. But I am not the same person now, you know that. And it''s not like that I will be alone, Edward will be there with me. You know he''s more than capable of protecting me and our babies if anything goes wrong."


    She continued to hug her from behind as she waited for his response. An annoyed groan escaped her lips when she didn''t hear a reply from him even after a long while. Unwrapping her arms, she moved around him on her knees and sat right before him.


    "Adam Levinson, you do know that you can''t go around making decisions for me." She narrowed her eyes at him. "You want to be one of those husbands who dictate what goes on in their wife''s life and controls them like a puppy?" She added as she continued to stare at his face while the man was trying to avoid looking into her eyes.


    She knew that she was being too much right now, but she needed him to say yes. And this was the best way for getting what she wanted. "Moreover, do you think I am still the same naive woman who walked into your office, wearing a crop top over simple black jeans for her interview? And whoever is our enemy, they are after you, not me. So me going out with my driver to visit my parents'' graves is a far better and safer option than you accompanying me as my personal assistant."


    She took a pause and breathed in a couple of times to calm herself down, she was getting too worked up over the fact that the man had turned her down right away. And she needed him to say yes, she didn''t want to stay in the shadows for long. She wanted to know everything that Carston could tell her. She started to gnaw on her lower lip as she waited for his answer.


    ******


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 Chapter 263 - Hold Your Horses

    Stella looked at him with hopeful eyes, still gnawing on her lower lip, waiting for him to answer her. Though she seemed calm from the outside, her mind was a mess. She was continuously praying to the heavens above to go easy on her. She really wanted him to say yes because she just couldn''t go behind his back.


    "Adam?" She called out to him softly. "Don''t just continue to sit there with your mouth shut, at least answer me. Is it a yes or no?"


    Adam shook his head in response as his hands found their way to her cheeks. His thumb grazed over her milky, smooth skin as he gazed into her hazel orbs. "You drive me crazy, woman." He spoke up, the corners of his lips turning slightly upwards. "You are right, I can not go around dictating your life. You can go if you want to, but Edward will accompany you. And you are going to keep him close." He gave into her demands. How could he not?


    After hearing his words, Stella wasn''t able to hold her joy back and jumped right into his arms, tumbling his sitting figure down on the bed.


    "Stella." Adam wrapped his arms securely around her lower waist on instinct as she ended up landing right over him. "Have you lost your mind?" He scolded her for being so careless. ''How could this woman forget that she is pregnant, that too with twins?'' He thought to himself.


    "I am sorry." She uttered an apology right away after realizing her mistake. "I love you." She crawled up on his body and placed a peck on his thin lips which were turned into a scowl. "I love you, I love you, I love you." She repeated the three magical words again and again, in between her feather light pecks.


    Her words were no less than music to his ears. He hummed in response, basking in the warmth which his wife was providing him with. With each of her peck, it was getting harder for him to control the beast within him as he continued to remind himself that they couldn''t do ''it''.


    He moaned when her lips didn''t leave his, rather began to move over his slowly. Pursing his thin lips together, he didn''t let her prying tongue enter his mouth. His hands, which were resting on her waist, moved up to her face and stopped her from proceeding any further.


    "Hold your horses, woman." He grazed his thumb over her cheeks. "You know that we cannot do it. And it''s already too late for other things. You have to leave tomorrow morning, and I know that traveling makes you tired. So, you need to rest now."


    "But it''s just midnight." She tried to persuade him, but the man didn''t budge from his decision.


    "No means no." He shook his head sideways. "And I have something to show you. Stay here." He instructed her before getting out of the bed and headed towards the walk-in closet. As soon as he stepped inside, his eyes landed on the bunch of shopping bags from their trip to the mall yesterday. He wanted them to drop off at the mansion, but at a time like this, it would only make things more troublesome for them.


    Bending down, he began to look for the bag in which he had hidden his gift. After working his way through the bags, he was finally able to find it. A smile bloomed over his face as he headed out of the closet with his gift.


    "Sweetheart?" He called out to her before coming to a stop right before the bed.


    Stella hummed and sat up straight, her legs dangling off the edge. She squinted her eyes at his figure. "What is it?" She couldn''t help but question the man after having a look at his elated expressions. She saw his smile widening in response to her words.


    "I got you a gift. It''s a really simple one because I know you aren''t a big fan of those." He spoke up as he got down on his right knee before her. Extending his right hand out, he showed her a small black box which was in the shape of a square.


    True to his words, the box did look pretty ordinary but it still had a charm to it. The black matte background had some glossy lines running across its length, forming a grid-like pattern as they crossed each other. On the upper right corner of the box, there was a really bow of silk ribbon with a small crystal resting in its center. Despite of it''s simple appearance, the box spoke of royalty. Moreover, knowing him, there was no way that he would actually get her something ''really simple''.


    Keeping her scrutinizing gaze on the balck square shaped box, Stella took it from his extended palm. Before opening the box to see what it had inside, she patted the spot next to her, quietly asking him to get up from the floor and sit next to him. And who was Adam to say no to his beloved wife.


    When he was finally settled next to her with an arm wrapped around her shoulders, she finally shifted her attention back to the balck box in her hands. Her eyes widened a little in surprise when she removed the top half of the box. A small, rose gold, heart shaped pendant rested in the center of the box with a delicate chain attached to it. With her slightly shaky fingers, she took it out of its container and held it firmly in between the palm of her hands.


    It was one of those lockets which can be used as small picture frames as well. But what attracted her the most was not how simple yet beautiful it was, it was actually the letter which was reflecting of the light, ''A''. It was engraved in such a way that it was neither too prominent nor too dull, and one could clearly see due to the difference in lustre.


    "Turn it around."


    She was too busy admiring the locket when she heard his voice. Complying to his words, she turned it around and the awed expression on his face was replaced by a bright smile, one which would make him fall for her all over again. Similar to the ''A'' she had seen on the other side, this one had an ''S''.


    "Open it."


    She heard him say again and did as she was told to. What welcomed her eyes when she opened the locket, was enough to move her heart. ''Just how is this man so perfect? How did I get so lucky?'' She thought to herself as her eyes moved from the locket in her hand to the man who was sitting next to her with a smile hugging his lips and eyes. It was a picture of them which was already put inside one of the two frames. It was actually the one which Blake had clicked on Adam''s birthday.


    "Do you like it?" He looked up from her hands to her face, only to find her already looking back at him. It was one of the reasons it took him so long to return. The jewellery store clerk offered him that they could get the pictures fit inside as long as he could provide them a copy of it, and luckily he had this one on his phone. He actually wanted to turn the picture into a portrait and hung it inside their room at the mansion. But the way the events unfolded afterwards, he wasn''t able to do it.


    After a pause, when he didn''t hear a reply, he continued. "You could use the other frame for a picture of our babies."


    "Are you kidding me?" Stella gave him a skeptical look. "How dare you even ask me that?" Her words confused him, but it soon died down when he heard her next sentence. "How can I not like this? I love it, you moron." She added before throwing her arms around his neck, still holding on to the pendant in his palms. "Thank you so much. I love it." She muttered next to his ear as she kept her eyes fixed on the picture of them. "I love you."


    ******


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 Chapter 264 - Guardian Angel Or Devil Caretaker?

    Lost in her thoughts, she gazed out of the tinted window as her fingers played with the heart shaped locket which was dangling around her slender neck. The corners of her lips turned upwards as her thoughts ran back to the events of last night. She couldn''t help but blush a little when the memories of last night rushed back to her mind. How Adam had responded when she asked him to put the locket on her. His treacherous fingers lingered on her figure for much longer than it was required, and his lips soon joined them.


    "We have arrived."


    Edward''s voice made her come out of her daydreaming. Her eyes regained their focus on the surroundings as she felt the car coming to a stop before the entrance of a cemetery.


    "Thanks, Edward." She gave him a polite smile while looking into the rear view mirror. Shifting her gaze back to space next to her, she picked up the bouquet of red roses which was resting by her side. It''s way actually a really simple one, consisting of a dozen of long stemmed red roses which were bound together by a white mesh with a bow at the front.


    She opened the backseat door and was about to step out, but stopped. Turning her face back to her driver-cum-bodyguard, she spoke up. "I would prefer it if you stay in the car. I want to be alone with my parents." Her voice was firm and resolute, giving the man no choice but to nod his head in response.


    Stepping out of the car, she put on her sunglasses and began to walk down the familiar cobblestoned path with the bouquet dangling from her hand. Memories from her previous visits to her parents'' graves came rushing to her mind. She still remembered it as clearly as a bright day. She was barely a teenager when they left her on her own. But she didn''t hold them responsible for it, it''s not like it was their fault. Moreover, they were like her safe heaven even after they passed away.


    Lost in her thoughts she stumbled a little when the wedges she was wearing hit against a small stone which was popping out of the ground. Before she could lose her footing and fall, an arm wrapped around her shoulders, supporting her dainty frame.


    "Easy, child." A slight raspy voice was heard which wasn''t too unfamiliar to her ears. "I don''t think that hitting the ground will do you any good, especially in this condition." He continued as he holded her frame up, making sure her feet were firmly placed on the ground before he retracted his hand.


    "You are already here." She looked up from the ground and saw Carston standing right next to her. Her eyes moved to the two gravestones on her left and widened a little. She didn''t even realize when she had walked all the way in to where she was standing at the moment, just before her parents'' graves. ''Looks like I was too occupied by my thoughts.''


    "Of course." He replied to her briefly as he took a couple of steps closer to the graves. "I left for Amsterdam the moment I received your text." Sitting down on the ground with crossed legs, he continued.


    "Looks like someone was too eager." She commented in a soft voice before joining him. "How exactly do you know about ''my condition''?" She placed down the bouquet in between the two stones and questioned him.


    Hearing her words, the man chuckled lightly. "I know about a lot of things which go on in your life. I have always kept an eye on you after your parents left this cruel world."


    "Oh really? I didn''t know that I have a guardian angel." She scoffed.


    "Nah! I am no guardian angel. I am more like your devil caretaker." He gave her a brief smile.


    "Aren''t you supposed to hate me?" She asked him with a confused expression. "From what my mind could gather from our previous meeting, you probably had a thing for my mother but she didn''t have the same feelings for you. You hated my father because of it, didn''t you?"


    "A little correction, I didn''t hate your father. I still hate him". He moved his eyes from the stones to the lady sitting next to her and saw her giving him a ''are you kidding me?'' look. Before she could interrupt him, he decided to continue. "Let me tell you a story about a girl, a boy who fell head over heels in love with the girl the first time his eyes landed on her. But he was too afraid to say to her face, so he decided to play it cool. One thing led to another and they ended up being best friends."


    "Don''t tell me that you are talking about yourself and my mother?" She spoke up, interrupting him. But the man didn''t listen to her and continued with his story.


    "As time went on, their friendship grew stronger, and so did his feelings for her. Even though the boy knew that she didn''t have any interest in him and only looked at him as her best friend, he still wanted to give it a go. But he was too scared of the heartbreak which would follow his confession. So he decided to keep his feelings to himself for a little longer." He paused for a little while and took a long breath in.


    "On a beautiful but rather an unfortunate day, another boy entered their lives. He was tall and handsome, with a body that girls could drool over. And just like all the other girls, his best friend also fell for him. But there was one difference which made the girl stand out from the huge out. She was damn headstrong and actually made the overly proud newbie fall for her."


    "Hold on!" She spoke up, interrupting him once again. "The overly proud newbie was my father?" She gave him a quizzical look, hoping that he would answer him this time, but he did not.


    "Stop interrupting me, little one. Let me finish first and I will answer all your queries." He gave her an annoyed look before shifting his gaze back to the two tombstones. "After seeing her with some other boy, he was more than jealous. He wanted to take the guy out of her life more than anything. But his love for her stopped him from doing so. He wasn''t blind to not see how happy she was with the other guy. So he decided to look over her from a distance."


    He stopped and began to fish something out of his coat''s inner pockets. He shifted from one pocket to the other as he looked for whatever he was looking for. Stella was about to question his actions, but her words died down at the back of her throat when she saw him pulling out an old polaroid.


    ******


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 Chapter 265 - Call Me Selfish If You Want To

    Trying to have a better look at the polaroid, she took to from his hand and brought it a bit closer to her face. Just from the scratches and fading colors, she could tell that it was really an old one. A girl in her late teens stood in the center with two guys, one on either side of hers. It didn''t take her long to realize who the girl was, it was her mother. She had an arm wrapped around the arm or the boy on her right. She could recognize him as her father. Her parents didn''t change much after aging.


    Her fingers lingered over their faces for a while, a sad smile tugging at the corners of her lips. Her eyes then moved to the other boy who was standing with a grumpy expression on the other side of her mother. Based on his facial expressions and the way her mother was clutching onto his sleeve, it was obvious that he was forced to take this picture. The longer her eyes stayed on his face, the easier it became for her to see the resemblance between the boy and the man sitting next to her.


    "What happened next?" She questioned him before passing the polaroid back to him.


    "As time went on, they grew closer to each other. The girl started to spend more time with her boyfriend than with her best friend. He started to feel left out and all. His love for her started to make him jealous, and the jealousy grew with his age." Carston took a pause and shifted his eyes to her figure.


    "I am the one who made your parents leave the city, Stella. I threatened your mother to leave your father, but she didn''t listen to me. After you were born, she was scared that I might end up hurting you. That''s what made them leave their lives behind without telling anyone else."


    "And you were behind their accident, weren''t you?" Stella spoke up, gritting her teeth.


    "I was. But I just wanted to have your mother to myself. I loved her so much. Hell, I still love her. Do you think someone like me would visit her grave every week if it wasn''t for my love for her?" He questioned her. "I just wanted to have your mother to myself, Stella. So I decided it would be better to remove the two thorns in my path."


    "Me and my father." The words escaped her lips. She was now beginning to doubt her decision to meet him all alone. ''What if he still wants to kill me?''


    "Yes, you and your father. But I didn''t know that your mother would be accompanying him that night. I am so sorry, child." A lone tear escaped his eyes as he apologized to her. "Your father is damn lucky. He even gets to keep her even after they are dead."


    "Why did you want to meet me alone, that too here?" She asked him.


    Heaving out a long sigh, he answered her question. "I just wanted to apologise to you before them. Call me selfish if you want to, but I wanted to feel a bit light here." He motioned his index finger towards his heart. "And stop worrying about your safety. I won''t even lay a finger on you." He added with an amused expression. It wasn''t hard for him to guess what was going through her mind. All it required was a look at her face and he could easily tell it.


    Before Stella could say something in return, he ended up laughing like a maniac. "Do you know how bad karma works? A week later after they died, or as I prefer to say after I killed them, I was diagnosed with Astrocytoma. It''s a slow growing brain tumor, but it hurts like hell at times. And true to its description, it''s a slow growing one. So I don''t have much time left."


    She looked at him with shock expression as her mind processed his words. "You¡­ are dying?"


    "Yeah! Slowly, but yes. I just wanted to make some amends, so I started keeping an eye on you. I just wanted to keep the last memorial she left in this world safe, and that''s you, Stella, her precious daughter. I owe her your protection and happiness. That''s the least I could do to repent." He let out a sarcastic laugh, pitying his own self.


    "But your son¡­.." She couldn''t understand how to bring the topic up. She clearly remembered him mentioning Taylor in their last meeting. But it seemed like he stopped himself from proceeding any further after mentioning that he was his father.


    "He''s messed up in his head. What I did to your parents, was because of the jealousy which was somehow linked with the love I had for your mother then. But what he has done so far or he will, it is linked with his obsession, not love. And day by day, the boy''s going crazy." He added with a sad smile. "Looks like I have failed him as well." He fell quiet as his eyes gazed into the distance.


    Stella continued to stare at him with a complexed look on her face. She didn''t speak up for a while as she let her mind process his words. Did the man before her just blamed himself for the wrongdoings of his grown up son. "How could you marry someone else after my mother died?" She spoke up realizing that something wasn''t right with the story.


    When he didn''t reply to her, she tapped him on his shoulder to get his attention and repeated her words again, but this time she decided to be more elaborative with them. "How could you marry another woman after my mom died? If you really loved her to the extent of watching over her daughter whom she had with another man. Then how could you marry someone else?"


    For her, the pieces of the puzzle didn''t fit together. And it was eating her mind alive. It''s either he was hiding something from her, or she had missed something.


    "Are you crazy?" Carston gave her an annoyed look. "I just told you how crazily in love I still am with your mother, and you just said it yourself. I love her to the extent that I was okay with being your devil caretaker. And you are questioning my love for her, idiot."


    "But Taylor? Is he the fruit of one of your past affairs?" She couldn''t help but ask him.


    "Stella, I never even looked at any other woman beside your mother. As for Taylor, he is my adopted son. It''s on public records. I found him when he was just a baby." He answered her as he smacked her lightly on the back of her head.


    His answer made her speechless and she could only gape in response. ''Taylor isn''t his biological son. How did I miss this? And if it''s on public records, why didn''t Adam mention it before me?'' She thought to herself. ''But why would he mention it, it''s not like he could have just brought the topic up causally.''


    ******


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 Chapter 266 - Adopted Child

    His answer made her speechless and she could only gape in response. ''Taylor isn''t his biological son. How did I miss this? And if it''s on public records, why didn''t Adam mention it before me?'' She thought to herself. ''But why would he mention it, it''s not like he could have just brought the topic up causally.''


    "I-I¡­ How?" She managed to speak up after a while.


    "I adopted him when he was around five years of age." He paused briefly and took a deep breath before continuing. "There used to be a cafe in Berlin by which I used to stop by every morning to have my morning coffee. Me and your mother used to visit the place oftenly in our teens. It became my favorite place after your mother married your father and got settled with him as I could at least relive the days we spent there together."


    "There used to be a homeless woman sitting on the sidewalk a couple of feet away from the entrance door of the cafe. Every time I used to visit the cafe, my eyes would fall on her, especially when she used to play with her boy, lost in their own bubble of happiness. I once saw the boy crying loudly, asking his mother for food. So, I decided to buy them some food. I don''t know how or exactly when it became a habit of mine, but I started buying them food every morning and made sure it was enough to last a day."


    Not believing her ears, Stella interrupted the man. "Are you kidding me?" She gave him a glaring look.


    "Hey, come-on. I accept that I made mistakes in the past, ones which I can''t undo and I regret doing them. But that doesn''t make me heartless." Carston rolled his eyes.


    "Aren''t you too soft for a murderer?" She scoffed in response. "Please continue. Don''t stop on my account." Her words made him roll his eyes again.


    "Stop interrupting me then, brat." He fought the urge to smack the lady on her head. "So where was I?" He mumbled incoherently to himself, trying to recall where he was before she interrupted him. "One unfortunate day when I stepped out of the car to follow the same routine, I heard loud wails of child coming from the same direction where the duo used to sit. My eyes moved to see a large crowd of people gathered around the same place."


    Stella moved her gaze away from his figure and shook her head. "His mother couldn''t survive." She added only to hear a no in response.


    "She was already dead when the boy woke up that morning." He spoke up and patted the top of her crown. "Well, you can use your brain to figure out the rest. I won''t bore you any longer with my stories. You better leave now, it can rain any time. And being drenched in rain, that too in winters won''t do you any good. Off you go now." He added with a pat on her shoulder.


    "Alright. My driver is waiting for me outside anyways. Aren''t you going to leave?" She nodded her head in agreement and questioned him at the same time when she didn''t see any sign of him budging from his spot.


    He flicked her forehead lightly and shook his head. "There is no way I am going to leave without having a word with your mother, and I need privacy for that." He added to which she just shrugged.


    Getting off from the ground, Stella dusted her clothes off and big him goodbye. "Do as you please, I am going to go now. Just don''t stay here for too long or you might end up being drenched. I don''t know much about tumors, but I do know that winter rain won''t do your deteriorating health any good." She added as her steps started to take her down the same path she had followed inside.


    Looking at her departing figure, a sad smile embraced his lips as his eyes began to tear up. "I will protect her no matter what. I just hope you can forgive me, Rose." He muttered under his breath as he shifted his eyes back to the gravestone right before him. "And to prove to you that I really meant what I said to her, I am going to do her husband a small favor." He took out his phone from his pocket and hit sent to the already typed message.


    ----------


    With a smile tugging at the corners of her lips, Stella opened the door to the office only to find her man sitting in her chair. A frown marred her forehead for a fleeting second when she realized that it was actually his place to begin with and she scolded herself for even thinking that it belonged to her. ''It actually belongs to both of you, now that you are husband and wife.'' Her subconscious reminded her of the fact that they were a married couple.


    Her eyes lingered over his face for a little while before she shut the door as quietly as possible. She wanted to give him a surprise, thinking that he could be inside the room, but nevermind. Based on how engrossed he was in reading a file, she could still proceed further with her plan.


    With light steps, she continued to walk towards the desk. Just when she was about to say something and startle him, the man spoke up without even looking up from the file. "You are back."


    "Ughh!" Stella groaned in annoyance and pursed her lips in a pout. "I wanted to startle you, couldn''t you be any less aware of your surroundings." She added sarcastically and walked around the desk to where he was sitting.


    "What are you doing by the way?" She questioned him as she settled herself on his lap.


    "Nothing much, it''s just some file regarding the take over from our PR team. There were some errors in the figures so I asked them to make the appropriate changes. It''s the revised statement. I am just making sure that there are no errors." Adam answered her, wrapping his arms around her lowered to make sure that she was securely sitting in his lap.


    "Oh! Do you need my help?" She could only offer him her help even though she knew that he didn''t need it.


    "No, it''s fine. You should rest for a while. Traveling to Amsterdam and then back home must have tired you out. And we don''t even have much left to do. I have got this, you just look after yourself don''t worry." He pressed a couple of kisses to her cheeks, holding her closer.


    "You seem like you are in a good mood." She added. "What else could make you this happy when I wasn''t even here? And why aren''t you wearing your mask?"


    Under her scrutinizing gaze, Adam chuckled lightly. "Because your personal assistant left early today as he wasn''t feeling too well." He pinched her nose lightly. He looked as if he was about to continue but two consecutive beeping sounds from his phone, interrupted him. "Hold on." He excused himself and picked up the phone to check if it wasn''t anything important. As soon as he clicked on the notifications, his bright and relaxed expression was replaced with a dark one.


    ******


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 Chapter 267 - A Token Of Thanks

    A frown marred her forehead when her eyes landed on his darkened expressions. She couldn''t help but become curious about the content of the text. She badly wanted to steal a look at his phone''s screen to see what could make his mood take a sudden 180¡ã shift, but she continued to hold herself back. If it was something that he could share with her, he would do it on his own.


    "Stella?" She heard him call her name softly after staying quiet for a while, to which she hummed in response.


    "How was it?" He spoke up after putting his phone down, his words making her confused as to what he was referring to. "I mean your time with your parents. How did it go?" He explained his words to her when he didn''t get a response from her.


    "Umm¡­ it went fine I guess." She answered him, shifting slightly in his lap. "It actually felt good to be there with them after all this time." She added, the corners of her lips turning up ever so slightly.


    "Who else was with you there?" He questioned her as he wrapped his arms tighter around her waist. His words were like a death sentence to her which rang through her ears again and again.


    "What do you mean?" Taking in a deep breath, she managed to speak with her trembling lips. She could feel her palms which were resting over his hands, beginning to sweat.


    "I will ask you one more time, sweetheart. Answer me honestly. Who else was there with you?" Adam took a deep breath and questioned her again. He was trying his best to keep himself as calm as possible. It wasn''t her, he was angered by, but rather the sender of the texts. His one hand moved from her waist and found its way up to her chin. Hooking his index finger under it, he lifted her face up, making her look into his gray orbs.


    Gazing into his eyes which were looking back at her intently, she couldn''t stop herself from hugging him. "I¡­ I am sorry." She muttered softly as she buried her face in the crook of his neck.


    "And why exactly are you sorry for?" He spoke above her head, questioning her. Even though he knew the answer to his question, he still wanted to hear it from her.


    "I actually went to meet Carston Williamson." She answered him and began to narrate the whole thing to him, starting from the moment she had run into him in the shop the other day.


    Twenty minutes later, after explaining the entire situation to him, she fell quiet and patiently waited for him to say something. Silence took over the entire room as she waited for his reply. She could feel his grip around her waist tightening up as the second''s hand of the metallic analog clock ticked by.


    "Why did you do it? Why did you lie to me?" He spoke up after what seemed like an eternity to Stella.


    "I-I¡­ I just wanted to know more about my parent''s death." She managed to answer him, her hands still holding on to his shirt.


    "You could have asked me, and I would have found it out for you. But no, you have a thing for putting yourself in danger." He scoffed.


    "Hey! I am fine, aren''t I?" She ended up sitting straight in his lap and looked into his eyes. "Adam, you cannot always keep me under your wings, hiding me from the rest of the world. I have to step out and splay out my own wings some day. And the sooner I do it, the earlier I learn how to use them." Her fingers, which were clutching on to his shirt, moved to his face. Cupping his face in her small palms, she continued. "A child stumbles before he learns to walk."


    "Were you sure that Carston won''t do you any harm? Or even lay a finger on you? You are so relaxed here because none of it happened. But what if it had? What if he would have kidnapped you? You even dared to ask Edward to stay put in the car." He raised his voice a couple of notches. "And if it wasn''t him informing me about this, you would have kept it under the sheets."


    "He informed you?" She spoke up in confusion, her words barely a whisper.


    "How else do you think I know?" He let out a sarcastic chuckle before picking up his phone from the desk. He unlocked the screen and showed her the texts which he had received a little while ago.


    With trembling fingers, Stella took the phone from his hand. Her eyes moved over the screen as she read the first text.


    ''A man will be delivered to your base in a while. He''s the missing person you have been looking for so hard. Take it as a token of thanks for taking good care of her. I hope you can extract something good out of his brain.''


    She scrunched her eyebrows together and gritted her teeth. ''What man?'' The question was flashing through her mind, but it wasn''t the right time to feed her curiosity. Her fingers moved over the screen as she scrolled down to the second message.


    ''And just a little advice. Keep a closer eye on the brat. Don''t go around believing her words. If I find out that she has somehow managed to make a fool out of you again and sneaked out, I won''t spare you and your company.


    -Carston Williamson.''


    "Did you like it?" He questioned her once he saw that she was done with reading the texts. "You know what is your biggest problem. You never think about how your actions are going to affect the people around you. You don''t even take my feelings into account."


    ******


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 Chapter 268: Track Someone For Me

    "Ughhh!" A low groan escaped her lips. The veins on the side of her head were popping out, becoming more prominent, because of how forcefully she was clenching her jaws. It was her own self which had angered her to the extent of breaking down her cellphone. Her eyes trailed to the shattered pieces of screen which laid next to her broken phone.


    ''You know what is your biggest problem. You never think about how your actions are going to affect the people around you. You don''t even take my feelings into account.''


    Like a broken tape recorder, her mind was playing a certain someone''s words from earlier again and again, which only added to her enraged state. After telling her how selfish she was at times, Adam had walked out of the office, using a mere baseball cap as his disguise, leaving her on her own. She wanted to apologise to him because somewhere in her heart, she knew that she was the one at fault. ''Maybe, whatever he said is true after all.'' She couldn''t help but blame herself.


    Everytime she blinked her eyes, his broken expressions would flash before her which only added to her guilt. ''He was right, Stella. You never put him before yourself.'' Her subconscious nagged her, causing her to scoff at its timing. ''Nice timing.'' She couldn''t help but spat back at her subconscious. Why did it have to be at moments like this when her subconscious decided to wake up from its beauty sleep?


    Taking in a couple of deep breaths, she tried to calm her emotions down. Her raging emotions would not do any good to her babies. Moreover, she needed to clear her mind up and find a way to locate Adam. She would not have to deal with his whereabouts if only he would have bothered to put on the mask. But a baseball cap? She wanted to knock some sense into his brain, but that would require his presence.


    Unlocking the topmost drawer of her desk, she took out her spare phone and dialed the only number which was saved in the phone''s memory.


    A couple of rings later, the call was finally connected through and a man spoke up in his groggy voice.


    "Why are you using this phone?" Without greeting her properly, he spoke up.


    "I broke the other one." She answered him in a casual tone as it was a normal thing, which it was for her. During the period when Adam was absent from her life, she had been getting more cranky than usual. And in her angered state, she had broken more phones than she could count on her fingers.


    "Why do you sound sleepy at this hour? Don''t tell me you have been up all night, having your way with my sister-in-law?" She questioned the man on the other end only to get a low hum in response which was followed by some footsteps and the sound of a door opening and closing.


    "What do you need, Stella?" His annoyed voice makes it way through the phone''s speaker. He surely was troubled by her interference.


    "I need you to track a phone number for me, pretty please." She tried to make her voice sound as sweet as possible.


    "Who''s the person?" She heard him ask.


    "You only need to know the person''s phone number to track them, Blake." She answered him playfully, trying her best to avoid the person''s gender. He would find it after tracking him down anyways, so it useless to work him up already.


    "But why do you need me to track someone?" He questioned her.


    "Just do it for me, pretty please. I will owe you one." She spoke up, not wanting to disclose too much information to him. He was Adam''s best friend, but it wasn''t her place to make decisions for Adam and inform Blake about him being back to the city.


    After a minute or two of quietness, she finally got the answer which she was looking for. "Okay, I will do it for you and won''t pester you anymore with my questions. But you need to help me with Lillian."


    "Alright! I agree. I will help you with whatever you say, even if it includes making her say yes to marry you or bear your kids." She couldn''t care any less about what hurdles she might have to face in the future because of what he said at the moment. All she wanted to do was to know Adam''s location as soon as possible.


    "Hold on." She heard him say, some shuffling sounds following it. "What''s the number?"


    She dictated him ''David''s'' number and waited for his response. "Got it! You just relax and sit back, I will find it as long as the phone isn''t switched off." He added. "I will share the location with and send you a new phone by tomorrow."


    Hearing his reply, a smile embraced her lips and her mood became a bit better. "Thanks for your help. I will see you guys at the banquet." She thanked him before disconnecting the call as she patiently waited for his text. Two minutes later, a ping was heard in the quietness of the office, making her almost jump from her seat.


    Hurriedly unlocking the phone, she saw his text on the lit up screen.


    ''You are lucky that his phone wasn''t off. I will send you the link to his location.''


    Another ping sound was heard and a link to a local club appeared on the phone''s screen, causing her to frown. Before she could ponder over the fact that her dear husband was in a bar any longer, a couple of pings were heard.


    ''Why are you stalking your personal assistant, Stella?''


    ''You better answer me brat or I am driving straight to the company right now.''


    ''Stella?''


    ''Answer me!''


    Turning a blind eye to Blake''s texts she put the phone on a ''do not disturb'' mode and grabbed her car keys before rushing out of the office.


    ******


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 Chapter 269: Rodeo (1)

    With a screeching sound, a black luxurious car was pulled to a stop before a local bar in a downtown area. A woman stepped out of the car and handed the keys over to the valet, not forgetting to give him a stern look as he eyed her up and down. A woman dressed in a pair of black loose flared pants with a white full sleeved blouse, surely was not going with the surroundings.


    Stella glared at the man for a fleeting second before her eyes shifted to look at the neon board sign. The shabby looking place was called ''Rodeo''. She frowned as her gaze lingered over the broken second ''o'', which kept blinking on and off. She shook her head sideways, looking at the neon green board sign. ''If he wanted to drown his sorrows by drinking, he could have chosen a better place.'' She thought to herself as she walked up to the entrance.


    After getting herself stamped on the wrist, she entered the club with a frustrated expression. The loud music blasting through the speakers was enough to make her more nauseated from the place itself. It was almost dark inside the place with some colorful lights flashing every now and then. Green and red beams of light were focused more on the dance floor than elsewhere.


    Pushing her way through the crowd, she decided to first try finding him at the bar. The haziness inside was already making it hard for her to breathe. She hated congested places like this because somehow, they reminded her of the elevator incident from her childhood.


    After struggling for five whole minutes through the sea of sweaty bodies, she was finally able to get to the bar counter.


    "What do you need?" The bartender asked her in a not so polite tone which only caused her frown to deepen.


    "Nothing." She replied with a mere word, not paying attention to the tall, bulky man on the other end of the counter. Her eyes rather roamed over the row of barstools which were lined next to the counter, stopping for a few seconds on each individual as she tried her best to find her husband in the dark.


    "Then you need to leave the bar." The bartender spoke up again in his gruff voice. "No need to hold up the place."


    Stella turned her face towards him and eyed him up and down. "Can you please keep your mouth shut for a while? I am trying to look for someone. I will leave when I have found them." She gave him an annoyed look before getting back to what she was doing earlier, looking for her husband.


    The man across her, looked at her one more time and scoffed before getting back to serve his other customers. Stella continued to let her eyes wander around the small hall when she couldn''t spot him by the bar. Just when she was lost in her thoughts, cursing at Adam, she felt someone sitting on the bar stool next to her. As she had her back facing the person, she couldn''t see who he or she was.


    "May I get you a drink?" The person who had just joined, spoke up. His sudden question, made her jump in her seat slightly as she turned around. Her eyes landed on a man who seemed to be in his late thirties and was dressed as some thug. A toothpick was sticking out of one corner of his mouth as he chewed on it. His face, which had piercings on multiple sites, was leaning against his propped up elbow as he stared at her.


    "No, thank you." She replied to him as politely as she could, deciding to walk away from the place. Even with one glance, she could tell that the man was no simple one and it was better for her to stay away from him. She wouldn''t want herself to get into trouble, especially at a place like this when she had no one else around and no money in her pockets. In her frenzied state to find her dear husband, she had ran out of the right after getting the location, not bothering to pick up anything besides the car keys and her spare phone.


    "Oh, come-on, honey buns. It''s not like you have a partner." He spoke up again, spitting out the toothpick. "A beautiful woman like you shouldn''t be out here alone in a place like this. Let me buy you a drink, you can pay me back later on." He added with a wink.


    Even looking at his disgusting expressions and the lust which was evident in his eyes, Stella was starting to feel nauseous. She was about to spat back at him, but a tall figure blocked her line of sight as he leaned over the counter.


    "Here you are, sweetheart. I have been looking for you everywhere. I told you to stay put by the booths." A familiar voice entered her ears, easin her worrying mind a little bit. He was still wearing that baseball cap from earlier.


    She wanted to scold him so badly, but now wasn''t the right time to lose her calm. "It''s not my fault that it took you so long to make a call." She narrowed her eyes and played the part of an angry girlfriend perfectly.


    "I didn''t know that it would take me this long. I apologise, babygirl." Adam spoke up sweetly and hugged her by her side. His trailed off to the man sitting next to her wife, his expressions turning from a lovesick fool to an enraged, possessive boyfriend. "Was this man bothering you?" He questioned her, without shifting his eyes away from the man.


    "No, he wasn''t. Let''s get out of here, I need some fresh air." She replied without even looking at the other person, grabbing his arm as she get down from the bar stool.


    ******


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 Chapter 270: Rodeo (2)

    Stella finally let go of his arm after dragging him all the way out of the club. She was about to throw a jumble of words at him, but the man beat her to it.


    "What are you doing here?" Long gone was the sweet, possessive boyfriend as he questioned her in a stern tone. His words made Stella scoff as she started to walk away from the spot they were standing in. "I asked you a question, Stella." He spoke up in the same scruff tone as he began to follow her.


    "Shouldn''t you be the one to answer that question?" She added sarcastically, her steps coming to a sudden halt right next to an alley. She rolled her eyes when she didn''t hear a response from him. "Since you are insisting so much, I will be the bigger person and answer your question. The stupid me was worried about my husband''s whereabouts, so I decided to look for him and found him in some random local club."


    Adam narrowed his eyes and pulled her in the alley, pinning her against the dark red brick wall. Even though the man was seething in anger, he was still gentle with his movements. The moment she stepped inside the club, he had his eyes set on her figure. It wasn''t hard for him to notice a lady who seemed so out of place. He almost lost his cool when he saw that thug like man, trying to hit on his wife.


    "Oh! So you remember that you have a husband?" He added with a scoff, his voice laced with sarcasm.


    Listening to the way he was talking to her, she couldn''t keep it inside and snapped back at him. "I have apologized to you for it, haven''t I? I am sorry if I hurt you in anyway, but that wasn''t my intention and you know it. Why do you think I even bothered to follow you all the way to here if it wasn''t for me feeling bad about my actions?" She continued to stare at him with an aggrieved expression as the corners of her eyes began to glisten.


    Adam heaved out a tired sigh, his expressions turning mellow as he leaned his face in. A frown marred his forehead when he saw her turning her face away. Hooking a finger under her chin, he turned her face towards him, forcing her to look into his eyes. "I am sorry, okay? You don''t have to get all teary just because I was being an asshole." Though his words were way tender, she could tell that he was still being distant.


    "You won''t get mad at me anymore?" She questioned her, pursing her lips in a pout as her expressions turned to a pitiful child. "I promise I won''t keep anything starting from now."


    "I am not mad at you, I never was. I was just angry at myself." He replied before pressing a kiss on her forehead. "Let''s get you back home." He added, wrapping his arms around her lower back.


    She let him guide her out of the alley and back to the entrance of the club. "What did you have for your drink?" She questioned him as they waited for the valet to bring her car around. The way his breath smelled of alcohol earlier, it wasn''t hard for her to tell that he had definitely consumed some alcohol.


    "Scotch." He replied to her with a guilty expression. Under her threatening gaze, he was forced to explain himself. "I was angry, needed something to calm my nerves down."


    "How many glasses?" She added, raising an eyebrow at him.


    "Three." He scratched the back of his head and answered meekly to her. "Maybe it was four." He mumbled the latter part with a guilt stricken face.


    "Wilson told you not to consume even a little bit of alcohol until your wound is completely healed." She was about to continue further, but stopped herself when she saw the valet bringing her car out to the front. "We are going to have a word about this when we get back home." She added before walking away from him.


    "Pay for the parking." She spoke up in a loud enough voice for him to hear as he was still standing in his previous spot before getting inside the car.


    Adam could only shake his head off, pitying his own self. He knew that a good amount of scolding was about to come his way once they reached her penthouse. With the banquet closing in, they were almost done with most of the paperwork and there was no need for the duo to stay back at the company. ''How does our every argument end up with me being the culprit?'' It was a mystery to him as well. He shrugged ever so slightly and walked towards the valet to pay him for his services. ''I don''t mind being the culprit as long as she is happy with it.'' A faint smile embraced his lips as he walked towards the car.


    --------


    "Are you going to attend it or not?" Taylor asked his father who was busy reading through his diary, reminiscing about the past. The worn out leather cover which was holding the pale papers together was proof of its old age.


    "I haven''t decided yet. Moreover, I don''t deal with the company anymore, so going to the banquet won''t make any sense." Carston replied to him with a bored expression as he continued to turn the pale yellow pages of his diary.


    "You could at least accompany me to the banquet." Taylor asked him one more time. He had decided to finally ask Stella out to dinner after the banquet, and he wanted his father to be there with him. He couldn''t pinpoint exactly when his father became so distant with him. He was never like this all through his childhood till he took over the company. What exactly changed with them? Was it him pursuing Stella the sole reason for the bad water in between them?


    ''I wonder if things could go some other way between us two.'' Taylor thought to himself as he continued to stand at the threshold of the study room.


    "You can take any random woman as your date. I''m too old for these banquets." Carston answered him, looking up at him. ''I already have a date for you, my son. But that will be a surprise for you.'' He thought inwardly and smiled at him. "If you are done here, please leave." He asked him to which Taylor just complied with silently.


    After Taylor had left, Carston took out his phone and typed a text and sent it to a private number.


    ''You better make it to the banquet. My man will be there by the entrance with your invitation card. Don''t be late.''


    He continued to stare at the screen even after the text was sent. It was only then he received an ''okay'' in response, did he put his phone away.


    ******


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 Chapter 271: Together, Forever!

    Saturday evening,


    "Do I have to attend the banquet?" Stella spoke up with a frustrated expression as her eyes lingered over the dress before her which was hanging on a clothing rack. Just like always, it was Katherine who had sent her this along with some matching accessories. The dress was very simple yet elegant, perfect to go with her personality. Moreover, it was black and designed like a frock, which would help her in keeping the news about her pregnancy a secret for a little longer. Not that it was visible, but she was clearly putting on some weight.


    "Of course, you do, silly woman. It''s your company''s event." Adam spoke up without moving from his place. He was leisurely lying down on the couch in the living room, with his hands tucked under his head.


    "Umm¡­Excuse me, Mister!" She turned her head around to have a better look at him. "Whose company are you talking about?" She raised an eyebrow and asked him.


    "You are the CEO of the company, my dear little wifey." He shifted his head slightly so that he was facing her. "What whatever belongs to me, is yours as well. And that includes this humble servant of yours." He tilted his chin towards himself as he added the latter part.


    "When are you going to take over the company again? You know how tiring it is for me in my current state?" She complained to him, pursing her lips in a pout.


    Hearing her complaints, he heaved out a tired sigh as he got up from the couch. Walking up to where she was standing, he hugged her from behind. "I know it''s tiring for you, my love. I am so sorry for putting you and our babies through this." He apologized to her as he buried his face in the crook of her neck. If only things were any different, he wouldn''t have even allowed her to step inside the company in her current state. He would have showered her and their babies with all the love and care he could.


    "Stop with your apologise already." She rolled her eyes as she leaned against him. "Together, forever! Get it?" She muttered next to his face, her fingers interweaving through the locks of his hair.


    Adam hummed lowly into her neck and hugged her tighter. "I hate myself for not giving you a proper wedding, sweetheart."


    "You know what is more important than a proper ceremony? The feelings between two people who are bound in that relationship. I don''t give a damn about some fancy ceremony as long as you want to spend the rest of your life with me." She added with a smile. "And don''t tell me that you are having second thoughts about marrying me?"


    "I can never have second thoughts about you, my love." He answered her, squeezing her waist tighter. "It''s not like I have a choice anyways now that I have knocked you up." He added in a mischievous tone as he began to caress her belly.


    "You¡­." She turned slightly in his embrace so that she could have a better view of and was about to confront him for the remark, but the words got stuck inside her mouth when his lips crashed over hers. He kissed her like it was the first time he was getting a chance to taste her luscious lips. No matter how many times in a day or in an hour he kissed her, he could never have enough of his little elf.


    After having his fill of her, he finally let go of her lips, rendering her breathless. "You are going to look so beautiful in that dress." He pressed a kiss on top of her crown. "And no heels by the way." He added while pointing on the floor, next to the clothing rack where two shiny black high heels were placed.


    "But¡­." She wanted to say something in protest, but decided to keep her mouth shut after receiving a glaring look from her man. ''There goes my whole look.'' She thought to herself. The mere thought of wearing flats pumps with that frock, was giving her a headache.


    "It''s almost six now and you take like forever to get ready. You better start soon with your shower. I have something I need to deal with first before getting ready." He reminded her of the time as it wouldn''t be good for her or the company if she ended up being late to her own banquet.


    "Why are you going out at this hour? You need to hurry up as well because you need to put on the mask as well." She asked him with a frown marring her forehead.


    "I didn''t say that I am going out. I just need to make an important call and I need to use your phone for that." He flashed her a smile, causing her to shake her head.


    "Go and check the study, It must be on my study desk." She answered him to see him blowing a kiss in her direction before he made a run to her study. A smile bloomed on her face as her eyes continued to look in the direction he had run in earlier. She felt a warmth spreading through her chest. This place was starting to feel more of a home to her after he had returned. Before that it was just some luxurious fort to her. It doesn''t matter where in the world she was, if he was by her side, the place would eventually become home for her.


    No matter how many times she thanked the heavens above for bringing him into her life, it would still be less. He had completely turned her world upside down, but she was becoming more and more used to this upside world of hers. Shaking the thoughts off of her mind she turned her attention back to the dress. "Let''s get ready my little angels." She muttered to herself before getting the dress off the rack. With the dress and the accessories which came with it in her hands, she walked towards her room upstairs.


    ******


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 Chapter 272: Not Dead, Yet

    Picking up her phone from the study desk, Adam dialed a number with which he was too familiar with. He didn''t even have to look through the contacts list to find the number as he could recall it even in his sleep. Pressing the phone next to his ear, he waited for the call to get connected.


    A couple of rings later, the call was finally connected through and he finally got to hear the voice of his childhood best friend after so long.


    "What do you want from me now, Stella? And please don''t say that you don''t like the phone. I am not sending you another one." Blake spoke up as soon as the call was connected through, without waiting for the other person to even say hello.


    "Hold your horses man." Adam replied, the corner of his lips curling up on their own. His words were met with silence in response as the other person went completely quiet after hearing his voice.


    "Y-You¡­." A couple of seconds later, he finally heard Blake''s response. "How are you?"


    "Not dead, yet." Adam replied with a light chuckle, trying to lighten up the atmosphere as he could hear his voice cracking slightly.


    "You¡­! Just keep your mouth shut." Not liking his reply, Blake spat back at him. "How long?" He added a little while later when he didn''t hear a response from him, keeping his words to the minimum.


    "A couple of weeks." Adam replied to him in the same way, keeping his reply short, yet clear.


    "Where the hell have you been all this while?" Blake couldn''t help but feel enraged after hearing his response. It had already been a couple of weeks since the man returned, and it was now that he was bothering himself to give him a call. The mere thought was enough for his blood to start boiling.


    "Before you go ape-shit mad at me, I have been with your little sister all this while. She''s getting ready for the banquet at the moment." Adam spoke up in his defense.


    "You have been with her all this while?" Blake asked him for confirmation, only to get a low hum in response. "So why did you decide to suddenly give me a heart attack?" He added.


    "I had something I needed to discuss with you which is really important." Adam replied to him. "It''s about a man who might have been delivered to our base a couple of days ago."


    "Oh! That man. He is still here, safe and sound. I decided to keep him in one of our underground cells after reading the letter which accompanied him. It said something along the lines of him being the missing link to your disappearance." Blake answered him.


    "Good! Keep him there until I say so. I will visit the base in a day or two after the company''s events are settled down." Adam instructed him. "And it''s good to hear your voice." He added the last part with a wide smile gracing his lips before disconnecting the call, not waiting for his reply.


    His eyes moved to the antique looking wall clock and lingered over there moving second''s arm for a while as he did some calculations in his mind. Deciding that he should better start getting ready for the banquet, he left the study room. He wouldn''t mind waiting for Stella after he was completely suited up and ready to leave as she continued with her last minute touch ups. But there was no way he would make her wait after getting all glammed up.


    --------


    An hour later,


    Just like always, Adam was waiting for his precious wife to get done with her preparations for the events. But this time he had his disguise on as he would be accompanying her to the event as her personal assistant, not her partner. He was sitting in the living room on the same couch on which he was so leisurely lying down earlier as he waited for his ''Boss'' to make an appearance. The dark maroon coat and dress pants, paired with a crisp white cotton shirt and a small golden feather shaped brooch pinned to the lapel of his coat, only added charm to his personality.


    It was the same customized suit which Stella had ordered for when she visited the mall. The multiple taps of his black leather boots on the mosaic patterned marble floor, was enough of a proof for his impatience. He wasn''t getting annoyed by the waiting he always had to do for her, but rather he wanted to see her all dolled up. It had been a long while for him since he last saw her like this.


    "Hey, handsome! Have you seen my husband around by any chance?" A cheery voice made him shift his eyes to the entrance of the living room where he saw her standing, looking like the goddess she was.


    The sheer black mesh of cloth clung onto her body perfectly, showing the right curves and edges. The opaque dots scattered throughout the mesh, acted as barriers in certain places, covering her milky smooth skin. The boat shaped neck was not too wide, yet not too small, only allowing portions of her collar bone to peep out. The puffy full sleeves wrapped around her dainty yet strong arms like an ivy, ready to burn the fingers which even brushes past her. The lower hem barely kissed the lower border of her knee, leaving her oh so perfect legs for her husband''s eyes to feast on. The inner plain black lining hugged her bosom, encasing them and stopping just a little above the mesh cloth around her knees.


    Left awestruck by her blinding beauty, Adam could only gape as his eyes refused to leave her figure even for a fleeting second.


    ******


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 Chapter 273: The Dazzling Beauty In Black

    ?Adam''s? awed expressions were soon replaced by a scowl as his eyes trailed down to her feet which were sporting a pair of low but thin, nude colored pump style heels.


    "What did I say about wearing heels?" He questioned her, clenching his jaw. The prominent veins on either side of his forehead were enough of a proof of his enraged state.


    "A big no-no." Stella replied to him meekly as she strutted closer to him. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she pulled his face down. "But these aren''t even that high. They are barely three inches high." She pursed her lips together which were tinted with a dark maroon lip color.


    "You call three inches not that high?" He scoffed as he tried his best to not look at her face as she tried to look adorably pitiful. "What if you trip over? What if you slip? You do know that the entire hall is marbled. You even got them to polish it again to make it shine more."


    "You do have a point. But I know you will be there to catch me if any of that happens." She smiled at him before placing a light kiss on his lips. Before he could savour the feeling, she had already retracted her lips back. "No kisses for you until the event ends." She added with a wink.


    "Do I get just a kiss later on tonight?" His fingers which were resting on either side of her lower back, curled further, bringing her closer to himself as he questioned her. Long gone was his


    "It depends how well behaved you act throughout the event." She replied to him, placing a kiss on his cheeks this time. "Let''s go before we end up getting late for our own event." She grabbed his hand and started to drag him out of the room.


    "Your event, not mine." He corrected her while letting her drag him out of the apartment. "I am just a measly little personal assistant." He added with a smirk.


    "Whatever!" She rolled her eyes at his remark, not bothering to turn around and grace him with an annoyed look. She only wished for the event to go well, without any unnecessary drama. But drama had its ways of finding her.


    ---------


    The see through cream and off-white sheets of fabric graced the walls of the hall as their lower ends were knotted together to form a pleated pattern along their entire length. Bunches of white lilies paired with blood red roses, sprayed with water droplets, rested in the crystal flower vases around each corner and at a distance of a couple of feet on wooden stands.


    One corner of the wide hall was occupied by a music band which was busy playing some light and mellow music for the guest''s entertainment. Two huge golden chandeliers hung from the high ceiling, their droplet shaped crystals reflecting a golden glow in the surroundings, mixing with the white lights to provide a soothing atmosphere. Professionally dressed waiters were providing the arriving guests with the finest of German wines as they walked through the gathering people.


    Merely looking at how well organized everything was, one could presume that the amount of money spent to put this whole arrangement together was not a small figure. But who cared about the money being spent if the event belonged to one of the top conglomerates of Germany, Levinson''s Corp.


    One after the other, high profile people came rushing in, including the finance minister of the country. Taking over an established company which dates back to a few decades, was no small deal even if the other company was in knee deep black waters. People knew that R&E Group of Companies would start doing much better once their operating system came under Levinson''s Corp. Not only would it be good for the people working there, but for the economy of the country as well.


    Right before the entrance of the banquet, a large amount of people can be seen with cameras and microphones in their hands as they waited for the woman who has not only managed to run a business empire on her own, but was able to raise the value of the company''s stock to the highest they had ever been.


    In between the flashes of camera and murmurs of people going around, a black Maybach came to a stop right before the entrance hall. A man got down the driver''s seat and took a couple of steps back as he opened the door to the backseat with his head slightly bowed down and extended his hand other hand forward. A dainty leg came in view as the lady fixed it firmly on the ground, soon followed by the other.


    Taking the offered help, the lady got out of the car with her head held high. Even the blinding flashes couldn''t make the woman flinch or even blink more than what was required. Shifting her eyes to the people who were getting eager to have a word with her, she gave them a polite smile along with a slight wave of her hand.


    The murmuring sounds dying out as she motioned them to stop. In her soft and tender voice, she began to speak. "It''s good to have you all here. And I apologise that not every one of you could get an invite. The space inside is limited and the company could only bear to invite a few of the media houses. I will make sure that each and every single representative here will get a statement the company sent to your media houses by tomorrow morning. Thank you." With those words, the dazzling beauty in black walked away from the crowd which was held back by the security.


    Not wanting the event to be cramped up with people and the flashes of light, she had made sure to only put out an invite to the top media houses of the country, with the condition of no cameras or recorders allowed attached to it. They''d have to jolt down her every answer. And the rest of the people out here will be handled by the company''s PR.


    ******


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 Chapter 274: Bad Weather

    With her chin held high in the air and firm steps, Stella continued to walk inside the banquet where the executives of Levinson''s Corp. were already waiting to greet her. As she continued to respond to their greetings with a blank look on her face, a man continued to keep a close eye on her every movement like a mother hen looking out for her newly hatched chicks.


    Under his scrutinizing gaze, Stella was having a hard time keeping her face expressionless. ''This man seriously needs to go easy on himself.'' She thought to herself as her eyes met his worrying ones for a fleeting second. She continued in her tracks to the slightly raised wooden platform, where the MC was waiting for her. Replying to the greetings of her guests with nods, she continued to walk down the same path with her mother hen of a husband in tow as he kept a safe distance of a few feet between them.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention, please." The MC spoke up in his crisp and resolute voice once he saw the lady of the night getting closer to the stage. As his firm voice resonated the hall, the mumbling sounds started to die down with people turning their attention to the stage, the soft mellow music dying down at the same time.


    "Please put your hands together for Mrs. Stella Levinson, the CEO of Levinson''s Corp." The MC spoke into the microphone and a loud applause followed his announcement. "Now, may I have the honor of having you join me up here, Mrs. Levinson." He called out to her and shifted to the side, leaving the center of the stage for the lady in black.


    Giving him a nod, Stella joined him on the slightly raised floor and grabbed the microphone offered to her.


    "Good evening, everyone. I hope you are having a good time here and thank you for your attendance. Your presence here means a lot to me and the company as not only Levinson''s Corp. is about to put forward it''s step in the textile industry, but also successfully taking over R&E Group of Companies." In her refreshing voice, she spoke into the microphone, garnering everyone''s attention.


    "We will have a separate session with the representatives of the media at the end of the event where I will be answering your queries. Till then, I hope you enjoy yourselves. Thank you once again for taking out a little time out of your busy routines." She continued in the same polite tone, showing her gratitude for the guests'' presence.


    "I''d especially like to thank the finance minister of our country for joining us. It means a lot to have you with us tonight, Sir." She added with a nod, pointing her chin towards the man who was dressed in a dark blue coat and matching pants. The man nodded back at her, as he raised his champagne flute in her direction as a token of appreciation.


    "Please, carry on." She spoke her last words into the microphone before passing it back to the MC. She walked down the wooden platform and made her way to where the minister was standing with a bunch of the company''s higher ups. In her occupied state, she didn''t bother to pay any attention to the pair of black eyes which had been fixed on her figure from the very moment she had stepped inside, observing her every movement. She only had her eyes for the man who was following her like a fly buzzing over a dessert.


    ----------


    "You are late." Carston spoke up looking at the lady standing before him.


    "Bad weather. I had to wait for another half an hour before they allowed the jet to leave the runway." She spoke up in a bored tone as she had zero interest in attending a banquet she had zero link with.


    Carston hummed in response as he opened the backseat door for her. "At least you are ready for the event." He added as he motioned his chin towards the sea green gown she was donning on.


    "So are you." She replied in the same grumpy tone as her eyes caught the silver sword shaped pin attached to the lapels of his coat. "I thought you won''t be attending it, but looks like I was wrong." She added before sliding into the seat.


    "I decided to watch it with my own eyes instead of hearing about the whole ordeal from someone else." He gave her a sad smile before closing the door with a thud. He went around the car and settled himself in the driver''s seat. He didn''t want to attend the banquet and witness what was about to unfold with his own eyes at first, but decided against it at the moment. Instead of sending his most trustworthy lackey to pick the lady up, he decided to be her chauffeur for the night.


    ---------


    "Excuse me?"


    Stella was standing by one of the small square tables on her own when she heard a not so unfamiliar voice interrupting her thoughts. Turning her face to side, he looked at the owner and somehow managed to stop herself from rolling her eyes.


    "May I join you?" Taylor spoke up in a polite tone, but without even waiting for her reply, he walked closer to the table. It was then when Stella realized that he was holding on to two champagne flutes, one in either of his hands. Placing one before himself, he put down the other before her.


    "I must say congratulations to you Ms. Stella. I didn''t actually expect that you''d be able to run the entire business empire of the Levinson''s this successfully when I first heard about you taking over the company. "One should definitely not judge a book by its cover or a parcel by its packing, right? And I apologise to you for thinking that a girl like you wouldn''t be able to manage it."


    ******


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 Chapter 275: Struck By Lightning

    "I must say congratulations to you Ms. Stella. I didn''t actually expect that you''d be able to run the entire business empire of the Levinson''s this successfully when I first heard about you taking over the company. "One should definitely not judge a book by its cover or a parcel by its packing, right? And I apologise to you for thinking that a girl like you wouldn''t be able to manage it."


    After hearing his words, Stella couldn''t stop herself from scoffing, not bothering herself to be discreet about it. "If that''s the case, then I think apologies are in order." She added with a smirk. "I am sorry for not living up to your expectations, Mr. Taylor."


    Seeing her take a jab at him, he let out a chuckle. "I didn''t mean it like that, Ms. Stella." He raised his hands up in the air in a protective stance, showing her his palms. "I apologise to you if you think that I meant it in a bad way."


    A frown marred her forehead when she realized the way he had been addressing from the moment he approached her. ''Ms. Stella''. "You don''t have to apologise to me for anything. You aren''t the only one who thought that I would run the whole Levinson Empire to the ground. There''s a whole list which is actually longer than my grocery shopping receipt. And you just fall at the bottom of that list." She smiles sweetly at him.


    "And it''s Mrs. Levinson for you." Her smile disappeared as she added the latter part, tapping her left hand on the table cloaked a cream colored cloth, clearly showing off the large oval shaped diamond nestled in her ring finger. "Why do you keep forgetting the fact that I am married?"


    "Ah-I¡­ I didn''t realize I was addressing you that way. I apologise for that as well, Mrs. Levinson." Given no choice after being called out on the matter by her, Taylor could only apologize politely. Even if it was making his blood boil and sparking up his anger, he still had to address her with the last name of the very man he had more or less likely killed.


    "Oh! It''s fine. I know a bunch of stupid people who makes the same mistake while addressing me." She gave him a lop-sided grin, moving her eyes away from his figure. She couldn''t care less about him or the glass of sparkling champagne he had placed before her earlier.


    She let her eyes roam around the hall, moving from one person to the other as she looked for her man. He had told her to stay put in her place as he had to make sure that the arrangements for the press conference later on were lagging behind. ''Just earlier he was being a mother hen for no reason at all. Now that I need him to act like that, the man is nowhere to be seen.'' She thought to herself with a grimace.


    As if the heavens above had heard her silent plea, she saw him walking through the crowd, heading towards her direction. Controlling the rushing urge to yell in joy as not to give away herself to the annoying man standing beside her, she waved at him with a blank face. The wave was actually more of a calling signal as she continued to act as the Boss.


    "What are you doing with a champagne flute?" The words escaped his lips as soon as he came to halt next to her. "The doctor told you to not drink anything at least for another week or two, or your stomach ache might relapse." He frowned taking the glass away from her and placed it on the tray of a waiter who was passing by him. He didn''t bother to hide off their closeness from the other man. He actually wanted to flaunt it before him as much as he could.


    "Hello, Mr. Taylor." He spoke up as his eyes moved to the other person with a nod, showing off that it was just now that he had noticed his presence. "I hope you are having a great time." He gave him a slight smile before shifting his attention back to his ''Boss''. "What are you doing here? You haven''t met half of our guests yet. And I have asked a waiter to bring freshly squeezed orange juice, so that you can still have your toasts without hurting your stomach."


    "That''s really thoughtful of you. Thank you so much, David." Stella spoke up, giving him a bright smile. "Let''s meet the rest of the guests. Don''t wanna hear complaints from those stockholders." She added as she rolled her eyes before moving them to Taylor, who was still standing there like a shameless fool. "I hope you have a good time here. Thank you for coming. I will definitely give your company a visit soon to check on how the new project site is doing." She added the last part with a smirk. With a last nod, she walked away with his personal assistant in tow.


    Taylor kept his gaze fixed or her back until she was no longer in his line of sight. Seeing how genuinely she had smiled at that pesky little employee of hers, he wanted nothing more than to kill the man with his own hands, slowly and torturously. Trying to keep his burning rage in check, he clenched his hand into palms, deciding to leave right away. He had only turned around and taken a couple of steps into the direction of the entrance when his eyes landed on a way too familiar figure who was just walking inside.


    As if he was struck by lightning, he became rooted to the marbled floor, not being able to tear his gaze away from the very face who had been a part of his daydreams as well as nightmares.


    ******


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 Chapter 276: The Maiden In Wine

    As if he was struck by lightning, he became rooted to the marbled floor, not being able to tear his gaze away from the very face which had been a part of his daydreams as well as his nightmares.


    A tall and dainty figure, wrapped in a wine colored gown, continued to walk inside with slow yet steady steps. Her eyes wandered around the room as if they were searching for a certain someone among the sea of faces. Her delicate eyebrows ended up being taught in a knot as she failed to find that familiar face. During the mindless stroll of her eyes, her gaze ended up landing on the man who was still rooted to the floor in his earlier spot.The corner of her lips curled up into a smirk as the creases from her forehead vanished into thin air. With the same pace, she walked up to him, stopping at a distance of a few feet away from him. Though it wasn''t the person she was actually looking forward to meeting tonight, she still remembered her deal with Carston. In exchange of the address of her younger sister, he had asked her to make an appearance at this banquet and show her dolled up pretty self to his dear son. But who knew that the old dying man was actually smart enough to make her meet her sister and his son at the same place and time. It only came to her knowledge when the old man bothered to tell her on their way to the banquet.''He''s too smart for his age.'' She thought to herself and smirked. No wonder people were still cautious around him. "Goodness gracious! Who do we have here?" She couldn''t control herself from being too rude to the man standing before her, for he was the cause of her troubled adolescence. If it wasn''t for him, she would have stayed back in Berlin and pursue her dream career instead of being forced into the abyss of the world''s bitter reality, that too by her own blood."Y-You. What are you doing here?" Taylor, who seemed lost up till now, finally spoke up in an enraged tone as he tried his best not to snap at the woman."Why can''t I be here?" In her composed yet mocking tone. The lady spoke up. Her etiquettes paired with the way she carried herself, spoke volumes about her background."Where were you all this time?" He asked her with an aggrieved tone, the corners of his eyes turning redder with every second which passed by as he tried his best not to lash out on her before all these high profile people. Not because he was worried about her image, but his own. He didn''t want to be labeled as a man who raised his tone over a woman who looked so meek and submissive. But only he was the only person in the entire room who knew that it was all merely an act of hers. She was no meek woman."Somewhere far from here, and safe from a monster like you." She smirked. "You don''t expect me to tell you the exact location now, do you?""I couldn''t care any less as to where you live. What I want to know is why you are back?" He gritted through his teeth. "I wasted most of my youth looking for you crazily. I searched highs and lows for you. Where were you all that time? And now that I am finally okay with your absence, why are you back?" He glared at her."Don''t think so highly of yourself. I am actually here to see someone else. The moment my eyes are able to locate the person, I will leave." She replied to him, still keeping a hold of her poised self. "If you are done with being a thorn in my path, then will you please move?" She asked him as her eyes trailed to the host of the event, who was busy greeting some guests."Do you know her?" Following her line of sight, Taylor questioned her. He wondered how she knew Stella."Duh! Who do you think sent me an invitation if not for the host herself?" She stated as a matter of fact, rolling her eyes at his stupidity. There was no way she was going to bring up the actual reason for her visit to Berlin before the man. She couldn''t put her little sister''s life in jeopardy. Not after she was finally getting the chance to meet her in person after so long. "If you are done wasting my time, please move to the side." She raised an eyebrow at him and added in a not so polite manner, not wanting to go around him as it would take her two or three extra steps. Even if he was the last person on this planet, she wouldn''t waste the millionth part of her energy over him.Given no choice, Taylor quietly stepped aside to clear her way. As someone who once knew the woman like the back of his hand, her stubbornness was nothing new to him. He just quietly stood by the side as he saw her make her way towards Stella with a smug resting on her face. He continued to gaze at her retreating figure as memories from his past came rushing to his mind, the very memories he had spent years trying to forget.-----------*FLASHBACK*A boy, who seemed to be merely eleven years old, was standing by the bank of a river on his own. He had his black orbs fixed on the shimmering clear water as he watched the fishes moving around, immersed in their own little world. His unwavering attention was disturbed by a loud shriek of a girl which was followed by a splashing sound. With a troubled expression, he shifted his attention in the direction from where the sounds were coming from, only to be greeted by the sight of someone struggling to stay afloat.******Join on discord: https://discord.gg/jgP7DmsIf you are reading the story on some other site besides W e b n o v e l. com, then the content is stolen. [https://dynamic.w e b n o v e l.com/book/14227206905696705?utm_source=writerShare&utm_campaign=430

 Chapter 277: Elena

    *FLASHBACK*


    A boy, who seemed to be merely eleven years old, was standing by the bank of a river on his own. He had his black orbs fixed on the shimmering clear water as he watched the fishes moving around, immersed in their own little world. His unwavering attention was disturbed by a loud shriek of a girl which was followed by a splashing sound. With a troubled expression, he shifted his attention in the direction from where the sounds were coming from, only to be greeted by the sight of someone struggling to stay afloat.


    He let his eyes wander around to check whether or not the child was accompanied by an adult. To his dismay, there wasn''t a single soul in his line of sight. Shaking his head at the carelessness of the child''s parents, he walked in the direction from where the shrieks for help were coming with hurried steps and a hastened pace.


    "Have you lost your mind?" He yelled at the small figure which was struggling her way through the clear water. Her meek attempt at keeping herself afloat was forcing the water to form small ripples. "Use your feet, you little fool." He added, with a scowl resting on his face.


    "Help! Help me, please." Seeing a silhouette standing by the bank of the river, the girl called for help again, splaying her dainty arms up in the air. Her actions only annoyed the boy more, forcing him to let out a frustrated growl. "Stand up!" he yelled as loud as his lungs allowed him to, only to be ignored once again by the struggling child once again. It seemed like his existence and words didn''t matter to her as she was too lost in her pleas.


    Given no choice, the boy couldn''t help ruining his overly priced, designer jeans and shirt. Without even taking off his white branded sneakers, he jumped into the water with a loud splash. "Stop moving, you stupid girl." He grabbed the collar of her baby pink frock to stop her measly little movements and pulled the upper half of her ''drowning'' body out of the water. "The water here isn''t even deep." He added in an annoyed tone as he shook his head at her foolishness. "It is barely reaching til your elbows."


    His words pulled the girl, who was still calling out for her help, out of her delirium. She shifted her teary eyes down only to see that the water level was a little above her waist where a now wet pink ribbon was dangling. With her tear streamed face she looked up at the man and muttered a meek apology, "I am sorry."


    "Why are you apologizing to me?" The boy asked the teary eyed girl as he continued to hold her up.


    "Your clothes are all soaked and dirty because of me." She answered him with a pout, pointing her dripping index finger towards his jeans.


    "It''s fine. Let''s get you out of here." The boy shifted his attention back to the little girl and spoke in a bored tone before he began to move through the clear water. As he found his way to the bank, his shoes shifted the settled dirt at the bottom which turned the water murky. Once he was by the edge, he pushed her up and made sure that she was securely sitting on the dry ground before dragging his half soaked body out as well. He settled himself on the ground next to her and began to question her. "What are you doing here on your own? Don''t you have anyone accompanying you?"


    "My caretaker was with me, but she went to get me something to eat because I was too hungry." She answered in a quavering voice.


    "And how did you end up falling in there?" He asked her in a polite tone as he took out a small packet on tissue papers from the inside of his jeans'' pockets. Luckily for him, the packed was still sealed, so the water from his soaked jeans wasn''t able to soil them. After wiping his hands using the dry part of his shirt, he broke the seal and took out a bunch of tissues. "Here you go!" He passed her a few and then took out some for his own use.


    "You still haven''t answered me. How did you end up falling in there?" He repeated his question from earlier and stared at the top of her crown as he waited for her answer.


    "Thank you." She spoke up in a meek voice, thanking him for the tissues. "I was just looking at the fishes and lost my balance due to bending over too much." She diligently wiped her face clean, especially the trails of her tears. "I am sorry for the trouble you had to go through to pull me out. I am just too scared of water." She added, scratching the back of her head. "And if you don''t mind, I would like to pay for the damages done to your shoes."


    Seeing her point towards his soiled white sneakers, he shook his head firmly. "It''s fine. I will just get a new pair, I wasn''t fond of these anyways. But if you really are feeling bad about it, just tell me your name." He added with a smile. Just from the way she spoke, he could tell that she didn''t belong to any normal family. He couldn''t see the kid who was bawling her eyes out just a little while earlier. But what was she doing in a downtown area just with a caretaker? It made him a little curious about her identity.


    "I am not allowed to tell my name to strangers, but you just saved my life, so I will tell you my first name. It''s Elena." She extended her right hand towards him which he took right away.


    "Hello, Elena! My name is Taylor. It''s a pleasure meeting you." He took her extended and introduced himself, giving it a firm shake.


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 Chapter 278: Finally Made A Good Friend

    "Hello, Elena! My name is Taylor. It''s a pleasure meeting you." He took her extended and introduced himself, giving it a firm shake.


    "Young Miss?" A thin, frail voice of a lady was heard from a distance which made them turn their attention towards the source.


    "That''s my caretaker." The girl mumbled softly to him before she raised her voice a couple of notches. "Auntie Nim, I am here." She took her hand back from the boy''s grip and raised it high in the air. She waved her hand through the air a couple of times as she tried her best to get the attention of the lady who was looking around in a troubled state.


    "Goodness gracious!" The lady exclaimed as relief washed over her entire being. With hurried steps, she made her way to the bank of the river where they were sitting. "I told you to stay put, didn''t I?" In a slightly raised tone, the lady reprimanded her only to see the child smile in response.


    "I am sorry for making you worry, Auntie. But I just wanted to have a look at the fish. You do know how fond I am of them." the girl replied to her in a cheery tone as if she was least bothered by the events which unfolded a little while back.


    "How many times have I told you to be careful around strangers and not to be overly friendly with them?" She added as her eyes trailed to the boy who was sitting next to her.


    "It''s fine. He''s a good person. He just saved me from my own stupidity. Or else I would have managed to get drowned in just waist deep water." She giggled lightly while adding the latter part.


    "What do you mean by that, Young Miss?" Her words only made the lady confused, but her questioning look was soon replaced by a baffled one when she saw the dripping wet frock which was now clinging to her body. It was a good thing that the fabric of her frock was a bit thick which prevented it from becoming transparent after being soaked. "Oh my God!" She let out a worried gasp.


    "Auntie Nim, I am okay. This young man here saved me." Elena shook her head after seeing the troubled expression of her caretaker.


    "Thank you, young man. May I know your name if you are okay with that?" The caretaker shifted her attention to the boy who was sitting quietly all this while.


    "It''s no big deal, ma''am. And my name is¡­" Before he could share his name with the woman, a cheery voice interrupted him.


    "His name is Taylor. And he''s my new friend."


    "At least you finally made a good friend. I don''t like your other friends." Auntie Nim shook her head as she clicked her tongue.


    "I know they can be too choosy at times, but they are good people, Auntie NIm." Elena spoke up as she couldn''t stand her caretaker talking bad about her other friends. She knew that the caretaker only meant good for her, but she loved her friends too much to listen to anything bad about them from anyone, including her family.


    "Yeah, yeah!" The caretaker gave her an eye roll before shifting her attention back to the boy. "I am sorry about the rude interruption by her. Let me know if I can do anything to make up for it and the damage done to your clothing and shoes." She added in a polite tone. Even though from his manners only she could tell that he belonged to some noble family, but she still had to put her offer forward.


    "He won''t take it." Elena interrupted them again and answered for him. "I already asked him that, and he won''t budge from his decision." She shrugged her lean shoulders before getting off the ground. "Let''s go back home, Auntie Nim. I need to change and freshen up first before I can eat the corn dog you bought for me." She added pointing towards the paper bag in her hand.


    The boy who was being interrupted again and again by the little lady, followed suit and got off the ground as well. Extending his right hand towards her, he bid her goodbye. "I hope to see you around, Elena. And you better keep yourself warm after getting home, or else you might end up with the flu." He added when he saw her taking his extended hand.


    "Oh! I surely will. You should also hurry home and get changed as soon as possible. Don''t forget to have something warm too, a soup or some ginger tea will do you some good." Elena spoke up in her cheery tone as she gave his extended hand a firm shake. "I hope to see you around." Giving him her signature smile one last time, the girl skipped away with her caretaker in tow.


    Even after she was no longer in his line of sight, he continued to stand in the same spot, rooted to the ground. A little while later, the corners of his lips turned upwards in a bright smile and he couldn''t stop himself from laughing out loud. It was the first time someone had managed to do this to him, and it was also the first time that someone had been this much stupid before him.


    The more he recalled about her expressions and her struggle to keep herself afloat in just waist deep water, the harder it was for him to stop himself from laughing.


    "Young Master? Are you alright?" A man who was dressed in a white uniform spoke up in a low voice. He had just arrived to inform his Young Master about the call he had received a couple of minutes ago from his father. But the thought escaped his mind as soon as his eyes landed on the boy''s laughing figure.


    "Oh! Yes, yes. I am completely fine. Let''s go back home, Dad must already be worrying about us, as to what is taking us so long. It''s almost evening." The boy spoke up in between his breaths as he tried to calm himself down.


    *FLASHBACK ENDS*


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 Chapter 279: Unfortunate Fate

    A suffocating feeling engulfed his heart when he saw his past and present embracing each other in the distance with broad smiles tugging at the corners of their lips under the pale golden lights. The longer he stared at the two divine figures clad in black and wine red, the harder it was becoming for him to breathe. The memories from his past came rushing back to him all at once, both the good wonderful ones and the bad painful ones. Not wanting to bear it any longer, Taylor walked out of the hall with a hurried pace.


    Once he was in the parking lot and away from all those prying eyes of the reporters, he let out a loud growl. "Why does this keep happening to me?" He yelled in frustration as he pulled on his hair with both hands. The scars of his past were finally healed but the person who caused them had to come back and scratch them once again. The very moment he was happy once again, the past came back to haunt him once again. His once lost love was finally before him, within his reach when his heart belonged to another person, or that was at least what he thought.


    "Why me? Why does it have to be me everytime?" He asked himself as he began to walk towards his car. He needed to have a cigarette to calm his mind down so that he could at least think straight and decide on what to do next. Somewhere deep down in his heart he knew that he wasn''t completely over his first love. And no matter what, he couldn''t do that to Stella. He needed to make sure that there wasn''t even an ounce of feelings left in his being for the girl from his childhood before he finally made Stella his.


    He took out an opened packet of cigarettes from the dashboard of his car and took out one. After making sure that no one was in his sight, he lit it. Placing it in between his thin lips, he took a long drag in order to calm his nerves down. The other end on the long stick glowed like the eyes of a mystic dragon in rage as he took another puff, the nicotine providing his unsettled nerves some relief.


    As his mind cleared off a little, his thoughts couldn''t help but trail off to the past once again.


    Without him even knowing or realising, the freshly sprouted bud of friendship between the black haired boy and the girl in the pink frock all those years ago, bloomed into a beautiful, fragrant flower. But to the boy''s unfortunate fate, he was the only one who was tending to the little flower.


    From their first meeting by the river bank, the boy started to look out for the little lady. As time passed by, the weekly meet-ups turned into daily ones and the two souls were more than close to each other. From studying together for their own subjects and hanging out with each other''s friend, their daily routines started to revolve around each other which only made the boy to fall harder for her.


    When he turned eighteen, the boy finally gathered the courage to put his feelings for her into words, with the mere thought in his mind that she would more than happily accept them. But he has never been so wrong? The day he finally expressed his feelings to her, he was rejected right away, and that too in a not so nice manner.


    The little Elena started to put some distance in between them as she didn''t want to give him false hope and ruin their friendship any more. But to her misery, the headstrong boy refused to back down even after being rejected again and again, which only added to the girl''s trouble. The innocent love which had bloomed within the boy''s heart, started to turn into something dark, obsession. He wanted to have the girl in his life, one way or another. He couldn''t care less of the outcomes he might have to face.


    He continued to pester her to say yes to him and be his partner for the rest of their lives. It continued on for the next two years, until one morning when he couldn''t reach her. He left no stone unturned to look for her within the city, but still couldn''t find her. Even after using all of his father''s resources, he couldn''t find a single clue about her. It was like she vanished from the face of the Earth, leaving no trace behind.


    He had given all hopes of finding her and spent the next two years trying to forget her as he kept himself busy in managing his father''s business. He no longer had any faith left in the word love, for he couldn''t get his one true love. But a certain someone was able to sleep through the walls he had built around his heart, not bothering to even take his permission. And one after the other, the brick came tumbling down the very moment he laid his eyes on her rushing figure.


    It was one of his usual boring meetings at some other company to discuss their new project when he saw her for the first time on his way out. She was dressed in a casual pair of jeans and a white button down shirt which was tucked in neatly. A huge pile of files was resting in her hands as she made her way through the corridor. In just that single glance, he knew that she was the one who could heal the wounds of his past. From the very moment, he decided to make her his. All he needed to do was ask the girl''s sleazy Boss her name and he was good to go.


    ******


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 Chapter 280: Mutual Friend

    "I have to do something about her. I can''t have her staying here for long, or she might end up saying something wrong to Stella. I cannot let her do this to us." After clearing his mind from the memories of his past, Taylor started to come up with a plan to send Elena back to the hole she crept out of to ruin his night.


    All he wanted at the moment was to talk her into going back, he couldn''t hurt her no matter what. Even if he was no longer the adolescent boy who fell head over heels in love with the girl he met by the river bank all those years ago, he still couldn''t bring himself to hurt his childhood friend. After thinking it through, he had come to accept the fact that she still had an important place in his life and heart. So, he decided to solve this problem as civilly as he could. In no way could he bring himself to use force against her.His right hand slipped into his coat''s pocket and he fished out a small golden ring. "Looks like you have to wait for a little longer, little buddy." With a sad smile hugging his lips, he muttered to himself as he firmly held it in between his two fingers.It was the same ring he had proposed to Elena all those years ago and was holding on to it as a memoir of his heart break. But who knew that this memoir of his past''s heartbreak could also provide him solace with the hope of starting anew with another woman. He wanted to see the ring nestled neatly on Stella''s dainty ring finger. He wanted it to replace the ring which was already there in its place."If only I would have found you a little earlier, then Adam wouldn''t have gotten the chance to even know you, and we would have been together by now." He mumbled under his breath as he lovingly gazed at the ring in between his fingers. "If you prefer big rocks like the one you have on your ring, I will get you a bigger one, my love. All you need to do is say yes to me. I have already pulled out the thorn stuck in my foot for you."He put the ring back inside the pocket and pulled down the sun visor of the driver''s side. Staring at the small picture stuck to it, he couldn''t stop his lips from curling up in a wide smile."You don''t have to worry about me going back to her at all, Stella. You are better than her in every way. She doesn''t stand a chance before you." He smiled at the picture which was clearly taken without the other person''s knowledge. It was a picture of Stella in the same black dress which was delivered to then mansion without the sender''s name."Do you know how beautiful you look in this dress? I wanted to tell you then how good you look in the dress of my choice, but it''s better if you keep thinking that it was from that designer friend of yours. I bought the dress from her store for a reason." He added with a longing look on his face.With the thoughts of winning Stella over and sending Elena back to her home, he turned on the ignition of the car and drove away from the banquet. He needed to find a way to have a chat with Elena. The sooner he succeeded in sending her away, the sooner he would get the chance to propose to Stella and be with her.--------"Congratulations, Mrs. Levinson." A soft, mellow voice rang beside her ear. It was enough for Stella to shift her attention to the lady standing behind her, clad in a wine red gown. She excused herself from the group of ladies she was talking to earlier and turned around to shift her attention to the person who had wished her."Thank you so much." Even though she couldn''t place a name to the lady, she still had to be polite to her. "I am sorry, but I think we are meeting for the first time, aren''t we? Or am I making a mistake here?" As politely as she could manage, Stella asked her as she kept her voice low. It was really not possible for her to forget a name of one of the company''s business partners, and the lady clearly didn''t look like she was a reporter."You don''t have to apologize. I should be, for not introducing myself. I am Elena, and you are right. It''s the first time we are meeting in person, but I have heard a lot about you from our mutual ''friend'', Mr. Carston." The lady replied to her in the same, mellow tone as she extended her hand towards her."Oh!" Not knowing what to reply back to the lady before her, Stella just took her hand and shook it firmly."Yeah, oh!" Elena smiled at her as she rolled her eyes. "I just needed to show up here and greet you lovingly, which I have done." She added with a wink before turning her face around to look for something. The corners of her lips turned upwards in a bright smile when she saw the empty spot which was occupied by a certain annoying person earlier."Umm¡­ I don''t know what to say to that." Stella drew her eyebrows together and gave her a confusing look."It''s fine. I just hope the food will be good." Elena shrugged her shoulders in a nonchalant way as her eyes moved around the hall, still looking for the person who was the actual reason for her trip to Berlin. "Have all of your guests arrived by now?" The question escaped her lips which only caused more confusion to Stella.Taking in the way her eyes were wandering around, she couldn''t stop herself from inquiring about her. "Who exactly are you looking for?"******Join on discord: https://discord.gg/jgP7DmsIf you are reading the story on some other site besides W e b n o v e l. com, then the content is stolen. [https://dynamic.w e b n o v e l.com/book/14227206905696705?utm_source=writerShare&utm_campaign=430

 Chapter 281: Step Sister (1)

    Taking in the way her eyes were wandering around, she couldn''t stop herself from inquiring about her. "Who exactly are you looking for?"


    "Huh?" The words made Elena to turn her attention back to the host of the banquet. "I am sorry for my absent mindedness. It''s just, I was looking forward to seeing someone here."


    After giving the lady before her a scrutinizing gaze, Stella grabbed her elbow and dragged her to a corner where no one was around. "If Carston has sent you her, then that old fool must have done it for me. Based on how much I know about him, he clearly made a deal with you. So, who''s the person he promised you that you will find here? Don''t tell me it''s that creepy son of his?"


    For some unknown reason, Stella was feeling at ease in her presence and felt like she could trust the lady. So based on the familiar vibes she was giving off to her, she decided to be straightforward with her words.


    "Aren''t you worried that I may be a spy sent by someone who means harm to you? Aren''t you being too overly relaxed with someone you have just met?" Elena gave her a skeptical look in response to her words from earlier. Though she liked the woman before her, in no way would she show that to her and provide her with some satisfaction.


    "I may seem easy going, but I am not stupid. You wouldn''t have mentioned the old man''s name before me if that was the case. Beside me and him, nobody knows that we have met for even once, let alone that we are on talking terms now. And if you really are sent by him, then I don''t mind being frank with you." She took a brief pause to catch her breath.


    "Moreover, based on the amount of overprotective people who have my back, nobody can lay a finger on me." Stella gave her a devilish smile before continuing. "Now, enough about me. Let''s talk about you. Who''s the person?"


    Elena couldn''t help but let out a chuckle after hearing her confident words. "No wonder the old man has a soft spot for you." She shook her head with an amused expression gracing her lips. "Since I am getting the same vibes from you, I will tell you the truth. I am looking for a girl who''s almost around your age."


    "What do you have to do with a girl here?" With a curious gaze, Stella continued to pester her while cursing herself internally. ''Dang! These pregnancy hormones are definitely affecting my brain. Since when do I crave for some gossip?''


    "She''s supposed to be my step sister." Elena replied to her with a sad smile. "The step sister I don''t even remember much about. It''s been like six to seven years since I last saw her. After turning sixteen, she suddenly disappeared to nowhere. I just want to bring her back home. Though we only share a father, she was the only real family I had then. After searching hell and back, I found out that she was here all this while."


    Stella let out a low hum in response to her words. Growing up without any siblings, she couldn''t relate to what the lady before her was going through. But she could at least understand the pain of losing one''s only family, maybe she could feel it better than her. "So, you think she will be here tonight." Her words were more of a statement instead of a query. That was what she could conclude from her words so far.


    "Yeah! At least that''s what he said to me." Elena shrugged her bare shoulders which were peeping out of her off shoulder gown with a bored expression. "I don''t know if I will be able to recognize her now or not." She let out a long tired sigh. "All I have left of her is our memories. We barely get to spend any time together even then because I was here in Berlin while she used to stay back with my mother and our father. The day she disappeared, all of her pictures also did."


    "Are you sure that your family wasn''t involved in it in anyway?" The words escaped Stella''s lips before she could stop them. "I am sorry. I shouldn''t have said it." She apologized to her right away thinking it was better to accept her mistake than turn a blink eye towards it.


    "Oh, no! It''s actually fine. I doubt the same. I even tried to confront them regarding the matter, but they would just always move the topic to something else. They are good at covering their tracks, but not that good at playing it cool. The bad thing is, my family is a bit complicated, and since I cannot do anything to them, I decided to focus on looking for her." Elena answered her, keeping her voice low so that no one else could even catch a whisper of the matter they were discussing.


    "So, how did you manage to find out about her whereabouts?" Stella questioned her.


    "The old man helped me." She replied to her only to get a quizzical look in response.


    Taking in a deep breath. "Well, you might not believe me at the moment, but the old man isn''t half bad. He sort of helped me a couple of years ago as well in getting away from that a**hole son of his. But that only made my life more troublesome. So, I decided to ask her and coincidentally, she was here in Berlin all this time, the very city I ran away from. I wonder how is that even possible? I stayed here for like five more years here after she went missing."


    "So, you trust the old man?" Stella raised her delicate eyebrows at the lady before her.


    "Oh, yeah? He isn''t that bad." Elena replied to her causally. "But, I don''t see her around." She let her eyes roam around the hall once again, only to be met with the same result.


    "Umm¡­ most of my guests have arrived already except for a few, but they are my friends and family." Seeing the sad look on her face, Stella tried to think of a way to help her out. "Can you at least share her name with me? Maybe I could help you with finding her, but only if you are okay with that."


    "I don''t know if she still goes by the same name. But since you are asking, her name was Lillian. I used to call her Lilly." Elena''s reply only left her baffled.


    "Did you say Lillian?" Stella asked her to make sure that she hasn''t heard wrongly.


    "Why do you seem like you know her?"


    The question rang in her ears, but she was too shocked to force any words out of her mouth. If her doubts were correct, then the Lillian she knows and the Lillian who''s name was just mentioned must be the same person.


    "I hope that I am not wrong." Muttering under her breath, Stella walked away from the lady, only leaving the lady confused.


    ******


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 Chapter 282: Step Sister (2)

    "I hope that I am not wrong." Muttering under her breath, Stella walked away from the lady, only leaving ther confused.


    Elena stared at her retreating back for a couple of seconds before she decided to follow her. "Wrong about what?" She whispered yelled behind her after covering the distance between them. "At least answer me, woman." She added the latter part with sheer frustration as she continued to follow her.


    "I will answer all of your queries, just need to find someone first." Stella replied to her as she came to a stop once she was in the center of the hall and took a complete turn to look for her man.


    "Who are you looking for? My sister?" Elena asked her, her voice laced with hopes. "Do you know her?"


    "Maybe yes, but I am looking for someone else at the moment, my hus¡­ personal assistant. Where did he go? He was just here a little while ago." Stella let out an annoyed response. She needed to confirm one thing from her husband before giving the lady any false hope. She made another turn through the crowd while she continued to talk to Elena who was now walking right next to her.


    "How is your personal assistant going to help us with this?" Elena couldn''t help but become curious.


    "Trust me, he is the only person who could help you at the moment." She answered her which was followed by a frustrated groan. "Found him." She muttered under her breath as her eyes landed on his figure and narrowed down on him. ''You are so dead, Adam levinson.'' She thought to herself when she saw the whole flock of women gathered around him.


    With hurried steps, she made her way towards him with Elena in tow.


    "Excuse me, ladies!" With a crisp and firm voice, she announced her presence after approaching them. "Mr. Morrison, I need to have a word with you." Without paying any more attention to the flock of women drooling over her man, she went straight to the point. Even if he was in disguise, the thought of any other woman ogling at her husband didn''t settle well with her. And here he was, surrounded by a whole bunch of them and was even entertaining them.


    "Sure, Boss." He nodded meekly under her scrutinizing gaze and excused himself before walking away from the ladies with her. All this while Elena stayed quiet, watching the two of them interact from the sidelines. She found it better to keep her mouth shut than interrupting the two them after sensing the dangerous aura which was now surrounding Stella''s figure.


    "What do you need, Boss?" ?Adam? asked her, maintaining his professional demeanor.


    "What ''I'' need from you can be discussed later, I need to ask you something important first which concerns the lady here." She narrowed her eyes at him as she pointed her chin towards Elena.


    ?Adam? turned his face towards the lady and gave her a scrutinizing look. "I swear I am seeing her for the first time. You know I wouldn''t cheat on you." He raised both of his hands by his side in a protective manner and muttered under his breath.


    "You, stupid fool. I am not talking about that thing. I want to ask you how Lillian knows Blake." She lowered down her voice to merely a whisper, but kept it loud enough so that he could hear her clearly.


    "He found her during one of his missions. She had no memories of her past including her name." He answered to her in the same lowered tone before his eyes drifted to the other figure who was standing next to them quietly. "How does that concern this lady here?" He motioned his head towards Elena and questioned her.


    "I will tell you how or why, but answer my questions first." Without giving him a chance to say anything else, Stella continued. "If she didn''t know her name, then who named her Lillian? And it''s fine to be a little loud before her."


    "As far as I remember, Blake did so. She kept mumbling the same word lily when he found her. But everytime he called her lily as in the flower, she would go berserk. So, he named her Lillian, derived from the same word but a different name. And she didn''t mind being addressed as that, so it has stuck around." He explained it to her from whatever Blake has shared with him about her.


    "That''s because she hated the fact when people compared her nickname Lilly with the flower lily. She was like that from our childhood. She hated people using single ''l'' when spelling out her name." Elena, who was standing next to them quietly, finally spoke up after hearing their discussion. "Maybe she subconsciously remembered that particular part."


    "It is possible if we are talking about the same person. How do you know her by the way?" ?Adam? asked her, but instead of letting the woman answer, Stella interrupted.


    "That story is for another time. What we need to make sure that it''s the same person? I thought they were supposed to attend the banquet. Why aren''t they here yet?" Stella asked him in an annoyed tone.


    "Oh, that? Blake called me earlier and apologized to me saying that they can''t come as Lillian isn''t feeling well." He shrugged his shoulders as he gave her an apologetic look.


    "Damn it!" Stella pursed her lips in a pout. "If only I had a picture of her in my phone." She mumbled to herself. Lillian hated getting her pictures clicked, even with them. "Hold on! How could I forget asking you the most important thing! She scolded herself for her own stupidity when something clicked in her mind. "The Lillian you are talking about, what''s her eye color? Is it something which stands out too much?"


    After hearing her words, Elena smacked herself on her forehead as she bobbed her head up and down. "How did I forget mentioning it? Yes, she took it after her mom. Her irises are forest green in color."


    "If they are, then we definitely are talking about the same person." The corners of Stella''s lips turned up in a wide smile before she turned her attention towards her husband. "I need you to take her to Lillian, like right now."


    ******


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 Chapter 283: Stay Out Of Troubles Way

    "If they are, then we definitely are talking about the same person." The corners of Stella''s lips turned up in a wide smile before she turned her attention towards her husband. "I need you to take her to Lillian, like right now.""What?" ?Adam? raised her eyebrows as he shook his head right away. "There''s no way I''ll leave you here on your own.""Come on! It''s not like I will be alone here. I have Mr. Parker to look after the things and make sure that the press conference goes smoothly. And I have those bodyguards from the base to protect me. It''s not like something could happen to me among all these people." Stella spoke up and let out a frustrated groan. She didn''t mind him being protective of her, but at times he would just become too much."I am not taking any risks with your." He stood his ground and refused to give into her pleas. "You don''t get to have a say in this matter. I will never take a risk with your security, especially not now that you are¡­" His words trailed off as he managed to stop himself from stating the matter of her pregnancy out loud."But, it''s important that she meets Lillian." Stella spoke up once again and she tried to convince him to say yes."A matter can only be important for me if it concerns you, so no buts. I am not leaving you here alone." He refused to listen to her reasons as he folded his hands across his chest."Umm¡­ guys?" Elena interrupted their back and forth banter as she couldn''t keep her mouth shut any longer. "It''s fine if you just tell me as to where I can find her. I will just grab a taxi." She spoke up in a relaxed manner. For her, the more important matter was to find her way to Lillian. She couldn''t care any less as to how she would reach her."No! I am not letting you go alone. Moreover, if she really is with Blake right now, someone needs to be there with you. Someone who knows the place and it''s people around. Or else they won''t let you place even a single step inside the premises." Stella shook her head in a no as she explained it to her. Turning her attention back to her stubborn husband, she tried to coax him into saying yes."You wanted to know why I was asking you all those? And how does she know Lilly?" Stella asked him. "Because Lillian is her step sister, or at least that''s what I think so far. But even if there''s the slightest chance of my doubts coming true, then Lillian will have a family. Of it wasn''t for her, I wouldn''t have asked you to leave me here on my own.""What?" ?Adam? question her as his eyebrows shot up. He shifted his gaze from his woman to the other lady who was giving him a forced smile and then back to his wife with his jaw hanging low in utter shock. ''STEP SISTER!'' The words echoed in his mind as he refused to believe them. From what he knew about Lillian, she didn''t have any family. From where did this step sister of hers popped up now."How are you sure that she isn''t lying?" He asked Stella, giving the other lady a skeptical look. His hard to get self was starting to resurface as he kept the lady a scrutinizing gaze. Blake was like his family. The mere reason was enough for him to be protective of any woman who was Blake''s life partner."I have my own reasons for trusting her. Moreover, she was sent here by Carston." Stella answered him before Elena could say anything in response. "He was the one who told her that she might find her lost step sister here. But like you said, they cancelled the plan last minute." She stared into his eyes intently and pursed her lips in a pout.After staying quiet for a minute, ?Adam? let out a tired sigh. "You won''t back out, will you?" He shook his head helplessly after finally tearing his gaze away from her face. "I would have felt better with leaving you here if Katherine and Scott would have been here." He mumbled under his breath."It''s not their fault that Scott had to leave for Amsterdam yesterday. And you know how inseparable those two are." Stella let out a low chuckle. She wanted to hug her worrying husband tightly, but they were still in the hall and it was better to refrain from doing anything which would give them away."I know." He exhaled out another tired sigh before turning his attention back to Elena. "I will drive you there." His words made the woman to smile brightly as she lightly jumped in her spot in excitement. He shook his head in helplessness. He wouldn''t have given into his wife''s pleas if it wasn''t for the fact that Lillian and Blake were back at the base. There was no way she would be allowed to step anywhere near the abandoned mansion, let alone inside.Shifting his attention back to his lady, he narrowed his eyes. "I will come back as soon as I drop your friend here off at the mansion. You better behave yourself till then and stay out of trouble''s way." He flicked her forehead lightly."Yess, Boss." She replied in a low voice and bobbed her head up and down like an obedient wife."Good!" He exclaimed as a faint smile embraced his lips. "And no need to tire yourself or your mind out. If the questions coming from reporters become too much for you to handle, just ask Parker to take care of it for you." He added with a smile, only to get a nod response. He knew it was useless to give her any instructions because she would do as she liked."Now off you two go." She ordered them in a firm tone to which the other two people only nodded. "Drive safe." With one last instruction to her husband, Stella shooed them away. Before she began to follow ?Adam''s? tracks, Elena didn''t forget to engulf Stella in a bear hug and muttered a low thanks next to her ear.******Join on discord: https://discord.gg/jgP7DmsIf you are reading the story on some other site besides W e b n o v e l. com, then the content is stolen. 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 Chapter 284: You Are Finally Here

    Darkness shrouded her senses as she tried her best to have a look at her surroundings. But all she saw was nothing but obsolete bleakness. She tried to forcefully open her eyelids but they felt too heavy for her to even move, as if some weight was pressing them down. She wanted to take it off but her hands were restrained behind her back.She tugged at the restraints a little which only caused the rough binds to dig into her slender wrists.


    "Ugh!" A muffled groan resonated at the back of her throat as she tried to call for help, but her muffled pleas for help went unheard. All she wanted to do was get back to the banquet and be with him, her one true love. She wanted to rewind the time and go back to the moment she forced him to leave and take Elena with him.


    She wanted him to be here with her, to provide her the warmth she was missing so much. She wasn''t worried for her own self, but rather her little angels. She was worried that whoever was behind this, would hurt them. ''I hope you will find me soon.'' She kept repeating the same mantra again and again in her head. It was the only thing which was keeping her mind sane, and holding the pessimistic thoughts at a bay.


    --------


    An hour ago,


    "Thank you so much, Mr. Parker. And I apologise that you have to look over the press conference at the very last moment. If it wasn''t for David leaving, I wouldn''t have bothered you with it." Stella apologized to the Vice President politely for giving him more work to do.


    "It''s no problem, Boss. I just hope his mother is doing alright. Let me know if you need me to arrange another assistant for you meanwhile. David could take a couple of days off if he wants and look after her mother properly." Parker replied to her humbly.


    "I think that won''t be required. He said it''s nothing serious and that he''ll be back to work by tomorrow." She declined his offer. "And thank you so much for your hardwork. The banquet wouldn''t have been this successful without you. I owe you one." She added with a professional smile. She was glad that none of the reporters bothered to ask anything regarding her personal life as it was clearly stated by Parker before he let her have the microphone.


    After getting done with the press conference, she was on her way out to see whether or not Edward had arrived. She knew that in no way, her dear husband would have been able to make it back from the base to the banquet. Hence she decided to give Edward a call to make him work as her driver once again, and left a text for Adam to drive back directly to her penthouse instead of coming here.


    The moment she walked into the parking lot, someone stumbled into her. Before she could apologise to the person or even recover from the bump, she felt something being pressed against her nose as a hand wrapped around her lower back. She tried to call for help, but no matter how she struggled to get out of the grip, or tried to shout for help, all of it went in vain.


    She felt her senses going numb as her vision turned black and her legs gave in. The next moment she regained her senses, she found herself tied in a sitting position with her hands restrained behind her back and her legs tied to either of the chairs front legs.


    --------


    Stella tried her best to scream, but her lips refused to part even so slightly. After trying for a couple of times more, she gave uo. It was useless for her to waste anymore of her energy. She didn''t know if she would be given anything to eat here or not. It was better to preserve whatever energy was left in her body.


    The quietness engulfing her was suddenly shattered by the sound of crisp footsteps which she could feel getting closer to herself. To keep holding on to the last shred of hope she had left then, she kept repeating the same line in her mind. ''I know you''ll find me soon, my love. Just don''t keep me waiting for too long here.'' She had utter faith in Adam that he won''t let anything happen to her and their babies.


    "Well, well, well! Who do we have here?"


    The not so unfamiliar voice sent shivers creeping down her spine as every single hair on her body stood up in attention.


    "You are finally here."


    She heard him whisper next to her ear. She scrunched her eyebrows together when she felt his breath brushing against her ears. She felt some being pulled off her lips as his fingers brushed against her cheeks.


    "What do you want?" Trying to maintain a strong front before him, she blurted out in a firm tone.


    "You don''t need to worry about it, my love. I already have what I wanted, you." He spoke into her ear as his fingers found their way to the locks of her hair which were sticking out of the blindfold. "I don''t need anything beside you. You are everything that I have always wanted to have, Stella." He twirled the dark brown locks around his index finger and inhaled deeply, taking a long whiff of her scent.


    "Why are you doing this? I don''t remember doing you any harm." Stella questioned him only to get a hysterical laugh in response.


    "You are indeed right somewhere there. You didn''t do me any harm, but you did injure my heart when I first laid my eyes on you. And to compensate me for the loss, you have to spend your life with me." He took a couple of steps back from her chair and shook his head after watching the state she was in.


    "I apologise if my men were rough with you and caused you any pain." He apologized to her and helped her in getting out of the restraints. Lastly, he removed the blindfold and took a couple of steps back to put some distance in between them.


    "Why are you doing this, Taylor?" She muttered softly as she waited for eyes to get used to the light. She finally opened her eyes fully and stared at the man who was still wearing the same clothes from earlier. She looked around expecting to find herself stuck in some bleak room or an old, abandoned warehouse, but instead she found herself sitting in a room, next to a four poster bed which only made her frown.


    Seeing her confused expressions, Taylor couldn''t help but chuckle lightly. "You didn''t think that I would keep you locked in some dungeon? I can never do that to you, sweetheart."


    Without paying any heed to his words, she repeated her question. "Why are you doing this?"


    ******


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 Chapter 285: Tainted With Blood

    Without paying any heed to his words, she repeated her question. "Why are you doing this?"


    "Haven''t I already answered that question of yours?" He let out a low chuckle as he settled himself on the king sized, four poster bed. "I just want you to be with me, and I am willing to do whatever it takes to make it come true." He passed her a faint smile as he gazed into her hazel orbs.


    "Even if that involves kidnapping me, right?" Stella scoffed at his words. Her mind could never accept it, no matter how many times she heard him saying those words. ''What kind of sick person goes to the length of kidnapping the woman he claims to love?'' She thought to herself as she shook it sideways.


    "I have already apologized to you for this, but I will say it again. I am sorry. Kidnapping you was the last thing I wanted to have you. Honestly, it wasn''t even on the list." He gave Stella an apologetic look.


    "I was already on my way back to here when I got a call. It was one the men I have assigned to look after you. He told me how you were on your own, without that pestering assistant of yours. I thought what better time to make you mine." The corners of his lips turned up in a bright smile as he gazed into her eyes intently.


    If it was some other woman, she might have bought his words. But Stella wouldn''t. She was more than aware of his true nature, and in no way, would let him have things his way.


    "This is what you do to the woman you claim to love?" She gave him a skeptical look. After seeing that the person behind her kidnapping was Taylor, her jittery nerves were a bit calm now and she was feeling much more at ease. If she was to buy his words, then he wouldn''t hurt her no matter what. All she needed to do was buy Adam some more time, so that he could get to her.


    Getting up from the bed, he went to stand before her. "I swear, I didn''t mean to do this to you. I just wanted you to be with me." He took a brief pause and went down on one knee before her. "The moment I first laid my eyes on you, it was the day I decided to make you mine." He continued as he looked up at her with hopeful eyes.


    "I am sorry, but I already have someone in my heart. And that someone is my husband, Adam Levinson. In no way, I will give you that place willingly." Stella glared down at the man and saw the black orbs losing the light in them her words shattered his hope.


    But the man refused to give up this easily and grabbed her hands in between his palms. He looked up at her as if she was the last ray of hope he had left. "I promise, my love, you will be much happier with me than you ever were with him. And why are you still thinking about that man, he is no longer with you. I sent him to a place from where he could never return." In his emotional state, he didn''t realize the words which were flowing out of his mouth, and when he did, it was already too late to take them back.


    Stella looked at him with her eyes popping out of their sockets as his words kept repeating themselves in her mind. She opened and closed her mouth a couple of times like a gaping fish, but no words came out of it. She looked at the man who was kneeling before her, giving her a pleading look with a baffled expression. She couldn''t help but feel pure disgust creeping down her spine from the mere sight of the man.


    With a forceful tug, she took her hands back from his grip and looked at him scornfully. "What did you just say?" She asked him to repeat his words from earlier. No matter how much she tried, her mind refused to believe his words. How could someone be so inhumane that he was completely fine with going to such an extent.


    ''Did he destroy an entire site just to get rid of a single person? How could he be okay when his hands are tainted with the blood of so many innocent lives?'' The more she thought about it, the harder it was becoming for her mind to get settled.


    "I did it for you. How could I let another man claim you as his? I had to remove him from our lives, Stella. He didn''t love you like I do. He could have never loved you like I do. I waited for so long, thinking that he might become fed up with you. But the man refused to even let you out of his sight. I wasn''t left with any choice, but to remove him from your life." He shook his head sideways and explained to her.


    "You are sick up there." She spoke up and furrowed her brows. "You need to get yourself treated. He loved me when I had nothing to give him. He gave me all the time I needed to develop feelings for him, but never for even once did he force himself on me. And here you are, comparing yourself to him?" She scoffed.


    "I can be that guy if you want me to. I was already thinking of proposing to you earlier at the banquet, actually after it ended. But I changed my mind when I saw you acting so close to your personal assistant. I thought I might have to take it out of my path as well, but he did me a favor by leaving early. Do remind me to send him a gift later on to show my gratitude." He gave her a bright smile and continued to justify his actions.


    ******


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 Chapter 286: A Replica

    Hearing his remarks regarding the matter of her potent abduction, Stella couldn''t help herself from letting out a chuckle. "You have lost it. You have completely lost your mind." She didn''t want to lash out on him to enrage him in any way, but given the circumstances, she couldn''t stop herself from doing so. How sick a person had to be to turn a blind eye to all the deaths he had caused?


    "I know you are angry at me at the time, but everything will be fine for us soon, love. I know just the way to make all of this right, and you will definitely be more than happy after that." After saying his part, he got off from the ground and made his way towards the built-in closet in the room and took something out from the small locker in there before hiding it away from her line of sight. After shutting the two brown partitions close, he made his way back to Stella who was still sitting in the chair.


    Reaching to his previous spot before her, he came to a stop and got down on his right knee once again. He extended his fisted right palm towards her while looking up at her with a tender gaze. Slowly, he loosened up his hold and uncurled his fingers one by one. The corners of his lips curled upwards as he pushed his opened palm closer to her.


    A small, red velvet box which could easily fit his fisted palm, stared back at Stella. Her hazel orbs jumped from the box to the man before they jumped back to the box. Just from the huge grin tugging at the corners of his lips, Stella could tell where the conversation was heading to. His earlier words about proposing to her at the banquet rang an alarming siren in her mind with the blaring red letters of warning flashing before her eyes.


    "This is why I got a little late in coming to you. I had to make a quick stop at a jewellery store on my way here. Though I already had a ring prepared for you, I knew it wouldn''t go well with your taste. Since you are a fan of big rocks, I got you this." Clearing his throat, he opened the lid of the small box.


    A frown marred her forehead, as she shifted her eyes from the box to the back of her left hand and then back to the opened box where an oval shape diamond was resting in the centre. The more she stared at the glimmering rock, the more she started to worry about her safety.


    The ring which was nestled neatly in the box seemed to be a replica of the ring which Adam had gifted to her when he disappeared. The only difference she could was the size of the diamond as it clearly was bigger in size. Her thoughts were a jumble as she didn''t know what to make of his actions.


    "I knew you would like this ring much more than the one you have currently on your ring finger. Talking about it, let''s get rid of that first." He spoke up and extended his free hand towards her left one.


    Seeing through his words Stella got up from the chair swiftly, pushing it back with her movements. "Are you crazy? Oh, wait! You are." She gritted through her teeth as his actions alone were to rile her anger up. "Keep your hands off me." She spat out as she could no longer hold back.


    "Alright!" Taylor raised both of his hands up in the air in submission. Getting up from the floor, he took a couple of steps back just to put some distance in between her and himself.


    "I don''t mean you any harm, Stella. But you aren''t thinking about wearing both of these rings at the same time. That option is off the table. I will get you another one, but you need to get rid of that one, sweetheart." He continued in a tender voice as he showed her the box again.


    "I haven''t even said yes to you. Aren''t you thinking too far into the future?" Stella frowned. "And no matter what, I am not saying yes to a crazy person."


    "I know it must be hard for you to get used to your new life, but everything will be fine when we leave this place. It will be just the two of us in our new home, far away from this place." He gave her a smile before pulling his phone out and dialed a number.


    "How are things at the airport?" He spoke into the phone''s speaker, but didn''t divert his eyes away from her figure. "Keep everything ready. We will be there soon." He waited for a couple of seconds and nodded his head slightly at the other person''s response before disconnecting the call.


    Shifting his attention back to her, he spoke up. "If you need time to develop feelings for me and say yes to me, then you can take as much time as you need, my love, but just not here. We need to leave before that so-called brother of yours starts looking for you." He took a step closer to her.


    "I am not going anywhere with you." Stella stood her ground and refused to listen to the man because she knew if she let him take her out of this city, then in no way Adam would be able to locate her. For all she knew, he might even take her to a private island which couldn''t be tracked back to him.


    "I am sorry, but you don''t get to have a say in that matter." He gave her an apologetic look as he took another step towards her.


    Seeing him getting closer to herself, Stella instinctively took a couple of steps back until the back of her legs made a contact with the bedside table. "You do realize that you cannot marry a woman who''s married to someone else already." She spoke up as she tried to shift his attention to another topic. She couldn''t let him have things his way.


    "What marriage are you talking about?" Her words irked the man, and his tender expressions were replaced by an annoyed one. "He''s already dead. You are nothing but a widow, my love. A widow who still uses his family name and enjoys his wealth. You can take my family name and enjoy my wealth too." His lips curled up in a sinister smile.


    "I don''t care about your wealth or your family name. I don''t want to deal with either of them. As for him, I definitely care about both, his wealth and family name. And I am not willing to give up on either of them." She gave him a lop-sided grin and replied to him without giving away too much information. It was better for her if the man continued to think that Adam was dead.


    She moved her hands behind her and tried to reach the lamp which was resting on the bedside table. "My name is Stella Levinson. And that''s the name which will be written on gravestone." She added as she grabbed the shaft of the lamp.


    ******


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 Chapter 287: Without Me

    Stella stared at the man who was sitting next to her in the backseat of the car. Her eyes shifted to the divider which was raised for a fleeting second before going back to the man who was busy pressing a white handkerchief to the side of his forehead. Her eyes landed on the ghastly looking cut on his right temple when he pulled away the blood soaked piece of cloth for a mere moment.


    She couldn''t help but cringe looking at the lumps of half clotted blood which were peeping out from the break in his skin.


    --------


    Twenty minutes earlier,


    "Stella, will you do as you are asked to do, please?" Taylor spoke up as a frown marred his forehead. He needed to leave for the airport as soon as possible before anyone found out that she had gone missing. He didn''t want to take any risks with her.


    He took a couple of steps towards her while putting the box inside the inner pocket of his coat''s pocket. Extending his right hand towards her, he spoke up. "Let''s go, my love. It''s time for us to leave for our new home." He gave her a faint smile as he looked at her intently, waiting for her to take his extended hand.


    Stella continued to stare at him with a blank face before the corners of her lips curled upwards in a smile. She took a step in his direction and placed her left hand in his extended palm.


    "That''s more like my girl." He smiled brightly at her. But before he could get any closer to her, a loud smashing sound resonated in his ear.


    With whatever energy she was left in her body, Stella smashed the lamp on the side of his step. Due to the forceful impact, the glass part of the lamp head shattered into pieces. Stella instinctively took a couple of steps back when the glass shards flew her way. The metal frame slipped through her fingers and made a loud crashing sound as it landed on the floor.


    Seeing the man groaning in pain as he held the side of his head, she tried to make her way towards the door. But after taking a couple of steps in the desired direction, she found herself being dragged back and pushed into the chair.


    Taking out a white piece of cloth from his coat''s pocket, he pressed it against the open wound to stop the bleeding.


    "You are not going anywhere without me." He raised his voice a couple of notches and yelled at her. Taking his phone out from his other hand, he dialed a number while groaning in pain.


    -------


    She glared daggers at the man''s figure who even after being hit so badly, didn''t let her get away from his grasp.


    "A person who''s as sick as you are, can only love himself." She spat through his clenched jaw.


    "No wonder Elena needed to run away from you all those years ago." She added as she recalled her conversation with the lady.


    Though she wasn''t much vocal about the matter, the mere mentioning of Carston''s involvement in the matter was enough to give her way. Moreover, the raging emotions she had seen in her eyes were somewhat familiar to what she was feeling then.


    Not wanting fingers to be pointed at his feelings for her, he spoke up without shifting his gaze to her. "I loved that woman crazily. I was there for her whenever she needed me. But instead of returning my sincere emotions and loving me back, that woman ran away."


    He took a brief pause and turned to face her before continuing. "But I have got you now. And you aren''t anything like her, Stella."


    "Are you kidding me?" She scoffed. "You forced the girl you claimed to love to run away from you. You tried to kill my husband. Your hands are tainted with the blood of so many innocent lives. I can never love someone like you. I don''t think anyone can do that." With these words she turned face away from him.


    ''Hurry up, Adam!'' She thought inwardly, still clinging on to the hope that her beloved husband would find her somehow before they leave the city. Because if he didn''t, then he would never be able to find her in this lifetime.


    Twenty minutes later, the car pulled up to a stop on the runway where a private jet was already on standby. She gazed at the running turbines of the key through the tinted glass and couldn''t help but think that it was over for her.


    She closed her eyes and let the memories flash through her mind, the memories they have made together in this short span of time. She was sure that no matter how much time they spend apart, she would never be able to forget that smiling face of his.


    "Hey?"


    She heard the man and opened her eyes as a lone tear rolled down her cheeks.


    "It''s time for us to leave." He spoke up as he raised his palm towards her to wipe the tear off. But before his fingers could even brush against her cheek, she swatted his hand away.


    "Don''t you dare to touch me." She clenched her jaw and spat at him before getting out of the car herself.


    Without looking back or bothering to wait for him, she continued her way up the flight of stairs which lead into the private jet. The men who were assigned to look over things to ensure that they ran smoothly, looked at the woman with utter bafflement. They seemed like they wanted to interfere but decided against it when they saw Taylor getting out of the car and following her in.


    ******


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 Chapter 288: What Do You Mean By How?

    Stella stepped inside the cabin with her eyes casted down on the carpeted floor.


    "No need for you to look so grumpy." Taylor spoke up as he followed her inside. He was about to continue with his small lecture, but something else caught his attention as his eyes trailed to the figure of a man who was sitting in one of the chairs while sipping on some brown colored liquid.


    "What are you doing here?" The words left his mouth and he turned around to face the man who looked as if he owned the jet, which he kind of did.


    His words rang through Stella''s ears and she finally looked up. The corners of her lips turned up as her eyes landed on the man who was leisurely sitting back before her. The shine which her hazel orbs had lost earlier when she gave up all the hopes of reuniting with her husband, began to return.


    "What took you guys so long? It was starting to feel a little boring here." He spoke up in a nonchalant way as he put down the glass on the small acrylic table before him.


    "What are you doing here?" Taylor repeated the same question as he took a couple of steps towards him.


    "Shouldn''t I be the one asking you that question? Or what is she doing with you?" He answered with a question of his own. "I did not expect this from you, Taylor." He shook his head as he got up from his seat. Shifting his attention to the girl who was looking at him with a hopeful expression, he spoke up. "Come here, child."


    As if his words were the only thing she was waiting for, she strutted through the aisle and hugged him from the side, right after approaching him.


    "He didn''t lay a finger on you, did he?" He spoke to the lady softly as he patted her back.


    "Well, he didn''t. His men abducted me." She answered him, still clinging to his figure. "Thank you so much for coming." She muttered under her breath, but her voice was loud enough for him to hear.


    "Why wouldn''t I come, stupid brat? I cannot just sit back and let him have his way with you if that is against your wishes, which clearly it is." He spoke to her in a loving tone, completely forgetting about the existence of Taylor.


    "You should leave." Not being able to stand quiet any longer, Taylor spoke up.


    "I am not leaving anywhere, not without her." Carston gave him a threatening look.


    "Are you going to stand against your son, and side with her?" Taylor spat back at him. "I am taking her with me, and you won''t interfere in this matter."


    Carston scoffed after hearing his son''s word. "You do realize that you aren''t the one she loves? Why do you keep forcing your feelings and yourself on women who don''t feel the same way? As if what you did to Elena wasn''t enough, you now want to kidnap a woman who''s already married and pregnant?" He added as he threw glaring daggers at the man. "I don''t remember raising you this way."


    After hearing his father''s words, Taylor stood rooted to his spot, too lost to say anything in return. "W-what did you say? Married and¡­ p-pregnant?" He asked him, stuttering through his words. He shifted his eyes to her stomach which wasn''t bulging out. "H-how?"


    "What do you mean by how?" Carston let out a chuckle. "The way it happens for others. And if you meant who''s the father? The father of the twins is her beloved husband." He answered him.


    "But, he is dead!" Taylor spoke up with confusion written on his face.


    "Who said that to you?" Carston questioned him, raising his eyebrows like he was hearing a joke.


    "Because I killed him." Taylor yelled at the top of his lungs after hearing his father. He was having a hard time believing that Stella was really pregnant and that the father was no one else, but Adam. Even after dying, Adam had managed to show him his place, and it didn''t settle well with him.


    "I didn''t know that my son has become a murderer." Carston scoffed after hearing his confession. "And here you were, kidnapping a woman. Why do I have to step in every time to clean up your mess?"


    "I didn''t ask you to do that for me. You do it yourself. And didn''t you kill her parents as well. Who do you think I will turn out to be like if not my father?" Taylor accused him back, thinking that it might force Stella to step away from his father.


    "I didn''t want to kill them then. I just wanted to have her mother be with me after forcing Ethan into a comatose state. But it was my bad that she was with him and the impact killed both of them." Carston scowled at him as his grip on Stella''s shoulder tightened.


    "I don''t care what happened then. I just want to spend the rest of my life with her." Taylor pointed his finger towards Stella and spoke up in a demanding way.


    "She doesn''t want to spend her life with you. And looking at the wound you have, I think she might have made it pretty clear to you." Carston added, pointing his chin towards his face.


    "But she will love me sooner or later. I will make sure that she stays happy." Taylor retorted back. "And as for the child, she doesn''t need his child. We can always have a new one. Right, Stella?" He stared at her face with hopeful eyes.


    Hearing his spiteful words only added to the rage of the duo, but before either of them could say anything in return, someone else beat them to it.


    "I don''t think she''d want that. And it will only happen if I let you take her."


    ******


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 Chapter 289: I Give You Twenty-Four Hours

    "I don''t think she''d want that. And it will only happen if I let you take her."


    The firm and crisp voice resonated through the quietness of the cabin.


    "In no way, I will let myself do that. My dear wife will have my head on a platter for her next meal if the words even leave my mouth mistakenly." He continued after getting the attention of the trip.


    "Y-you?" Taylor mutters under his breath, his voice barely a whisper, as he stared at the familiar figure of the man. "H-how? How are¡­ you a-alive?" He stuttered through his words.


    He stared at the man, who was no longer in disguise, with his eyes popping out of their sockets, not accepting the fact that the person he had gotten rid of, was back. And not only was he back, he was standing right before him.


    "Because I didn''t die during the site incident. I accept that you were pretty good, but not good enough to kill me." Adam replied to him, taunting him with not only his words, but also with the smirk tugging at the corners of his lips.


    "It''s not possible. You couldn''t have made it out alive." Taylor refused to believe his eyes and ears. He took a step back, and then another as he shook his head sideways. "You should have been dead!" He shouted at the top of his lungs, his words echoing through the quietness of the cabin.


    "But I am not dead. I am alive, standing right before you." Adam glared at him as he took a couple of steps in his direction. His eyes trailed off to his woman for a fleeting second before they shifted back to the man.


    "I don''t mind you going after me. I would have turned a blind eye to the whole matter, but you dared to go after my woman. That is something I can''t, and won''t forgive." He added while throwing deadly glares at him.


    "Adam?" His name left her lips which was barely a whisper, but it still managed to catch his attention. "Can we go home now, please?" She couldn''t care less about the argument which was going on between the two men. All she wanted, more like needed, was to be in the confinements of their home and bask in the warmth of his embrace.


    Hearing her plea, Adam let out a long sigh and nodded his head. He wanted to teach Taylor a lesson really bad, but nothing mattered more than his woman. And if she wanted to go home, he would give into her demands. Moreover, he also wanted nothing more than to have her in his arms.


    "Alright!" He gave her a faint smile as he agreed to her before shifting his gaze back to Taylor. "I will take care of you tomorrow. My wife needs me more at the moment." He spoke up in a spiteful manner, long gone was his soft and mellow voice with which he had referred to Stella earlier.


    He made his way to where she was standing, not paying any more of his attention to the man who was so lost in his own thoughts to reply back to him. After approaching her, he nodded slightly at Carston before he grabbed her and pulled her into his arms.


    "Are you okay?" He muttered under his breath as he hugged her tighter. His taut shoulders relaxed a little and his haywired mind calmed down after having her in his embrace. No words could describe the feeling for pain and longing he went through when Blake called him.


    He was already on his way to the banquet when he received his calls. Blake sounded like he had lost his mind as he kept apologising to him again and again. It took Adam around five minutes just to make him come to the point.


    "I am fine. Are you okay?" Stella muttered against his chest as she took in a long whiff of his scent. He felt like home, and smelt like home for her. She knew that his worrisome nature wouldn''t have let his mind be at peace till now.


    "Yes, my love. I am fine too. How are the babies? They didn''t trouble you, did they?" He spoke above her head as the man was more worried that his two little devils might have troubled his beloved wife. She was starting to have morning sickness and nausea, and it worried him more.


    "They have been good." She answered him with a light chuckle.


    "And did you do that to him?" He tilted his head in Taylor''s direction who was still standing on his previous spot, and gave her a questioning look.


    Tilting her head back she looked up at him and bobbed her head up and down excitedly, as if she was proud of herself. Looking at her hopeful expression, Adam couldn''t help but shake his head helplessly.


    "You did a good job. Now let''s go home." He kissed the top of her head and held her by her waist.


    "I give you twenty-four hours. And thank you for your help." He muttered to Carston before he began to guide Stella out of the cabin. Once the duo was out on the runway, Stella was shocked to see the number of uniformed men standing around the private jet. Some of them were the same ones she had seen earlier on her way in and took them as Taylor''s men.


    "How''s Elena?" She questioned him as he guided her to the black Maybach which was standing next to the jet.


    "Are you serious?" Adam gave her a glaring look. "You were the one who was kidnapped, and you are worrying about her." He couldn''t believe how thick skulled his woman was about matters which concerned her. "She''s at the base though, and was talking to Lillian in private when I left for the banquet." He still answered her like the dutiful husband he was.


    ******


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 Chapter 290: Dad

    "You have disappointed me so many times, lad." Carston spoke up once he was left alone with his son. "I decided not to confront you about the matter regarding Elena, thinking that you''ll change for good. But I was wrong, so wrong that I regret not doing it." He shook his head as he looked at Taylor with disappointment written all over his face.


    "How do you know about Elena?" Taylor finally questioned him as he gained some of his composure back. He hadn''t recovered completely from the shock of seeing Adam alive. He still refused to accept the fact that even after trying so much, he couldn''t have Stella to himself.


    "Because I am the one who made her disappear from Berlin. Not like she needed my help anyways. But I just helped her in getting back to her family, after that, she didn''t need my assistance to stay under the radar." Carston answered him as he settled down in the same seat he was sitting in earlier.


    Taking out a manila folder from the side compartment of his seat, he placed it on the table before him. "Have a seat." He pointed to the seat across him and instructed Taylor.


    Heaving out a long tired sigh, Taylor complied to his words. Despite being angry with his father for siding with his enemy, he still listened to him. After all, the man before him was the one who had been providing him with every single necessity of life, in fact, much more than that he''d been asking for. He was many things, but being ungrateful wasn''t one of them.


    "What is it?" In a flat tone, he spoke up, asking Carston to continue with his words.


    "I need you to sign these papers." He opened the manila folder and pushed it towards him. Just sign those spaces which are marked with a small cross, I have already signed them.


    Taylor hummed lightly and without asking any further questions, he picked up the pen which was resting in between the folder. He flipped through the pages, signing them one after the other in the required places without bothering to glance at the content.


    "Is that all?" He looked up from the folder and questioned Carston.


    "Yes!" Carston closed the folder and looked at him. "Are you not going to ask me what these pages are about?"


    "I am thankful for whatever you have done for me so far. I won''t ask you for more." Taylor replied to him as he looked through the small window next to him.


    "These papers state that you don''t own Williamson''s Tech. any longer, though you''ll remain the CEO of the company and still be in charge of the subsidiaries. Half of the properties which used to belong to me, have been allocated for different orphanages and old homes. The remaining half are yours starting from now on." Though he didn''t ask for any explanation regarding the papers, Carston still provided him with one.


    "You shouldn''t have done what you did to Stella." He added as he shook his head helplessly.


    "I know, I shouldn''t have. But I wanted to feel loved for once." Taylor spoke up as a sad smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Looks like I am never going to get that." He added, pitying himself.


    "You chose the wrong person. She already had someone in her heart. As for Elena, you cannot force your love on someone who doesn''t feel the same way about you. Trust me, it will get you nothing." Carston muttered under his breath. "You will get the right one, lad. Just don''t force your love on someone, and no more abducting."


    Taylor nodded his head at his words as all of his hopes of getting Stella to fall in with him left his soul. They were shattered the very moment he saw the spark returning to her eyes when they landed on Adam''s figure.


    He had seen her clinging to Adam''s figure like he was her life savior as a smile returned to her face. It was the very smile he had grown to so fond of seeing. His eyes were craving to see the same smile on her face, but it was only now that he realized that he could never be the reason behind that smile of hers. And it was this very moment, that he gave up on his feelings for her.


    Breaking the silence which was engulfing the cabin, Taylor spoke up as he shifted his eyes back to his father.


    "You know, I always used to think that if it was my company Stella had joined instead of his, she might have fallen in love with me. Or if I was the one to enter in her life before Adam, I would have been the one she loves. But I was wrong. I was so wrong, Dad." He scoffed.


    "Did you just call me ''Dad''?" Carston spoke up. He wanted to give him a piece of advice, but the only word he could focus on was ''Dad''. It had been long since Taylor referred to him with that title. He wasn''t vocal about it, but he missed being called by the title. It made him realize that he still had someone to call family.


    "Yes, and I am sorry." Taylor answered him, rolling his eyes at the old man.


    "I don''t think I am the person you need to apologise to." Carston frowned at the sudden apology coming from him.


    "I will do that too. But I need to apologise to you first. I am sorry, for everything I have done so far." He shook his head and apologized to him once again. "And the things which I might do in the coming future." He muttered the later part to himself.


    "What?" Carston gave him a questioning look as he wasn''t able to catch his last sentence.


    "Nothing, Dad!" He gave him a faint smile as he pointed his index finger to the side of his head. "Can we go to a hospital to get it checked? Damn! She didn''t hold back." He groaned lightly as he placed his palm over the wound.


    After seeing him groaning in pain, Carston nodded his head in agreement. "Let''s get it checked."


    ******


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 Chapter 291: My Wife Is More Than Capable

    "She''s completely fine, and so are the twins." Dr. Matilda spoke up as she walked inside her office with Stella''s ultrasound reports in her hands. Her eyes trailed to the man who was sitting next to the lady and she couldn''t help but frown.


    She was shocked to see Stella coming in this late for a check-up. But what shocked her more was the man who was accompanying her and his domineering presence. Despite being out of news for this long, Adam''s face wasn''t something which people could easily forget. But at the same time Matilda also remembered the face of the man who had accompanied Stella on her last visit.


    Shaking her thoughts of her mind, she passed the reports to Stella which was snatched by a certain someone before her fingers could even touch the envelope. The man''s actions only left the doctor baffled. She was at a loss of words, not knowing what to say before him.


    "I told you that I am fine, but you never listen to me." Stella spoke up, her words resonating through the quiet room.


    She shifted her gaze back to the doctor and gave her a polite smile. She could sense that Adam''s presence only was enough for the poor lady to be baffled. How would a person feel after seeing someone who was supposed to be dead long ago? Definitely, not good!


    "Are you done staring at the ultrasound picture?" She spoke up again to get the man''s attention who was too lost in staring at the black and white echo image.


    "Yes, sure, my love. And to answer your previous remark. I could see that you were fine, but I am never taking any risk when it comes to your well being of our children''s well being. "Let''s go now, shall we?" He extended his hand towards her after putting the reports back inside it''s envelope.


    Stella gave him an eye roll, but still took his hand before turning her attention to the doctor who was still staring at the duo. "Thank you so much for giving us your time. And I apologise for troubling you at this hour." She gave the lady a bright smile.


    "It''s no problem. It''s a good thing that I had a case earlier on, so you just caught me in time. Ten more minutes or so, I would have left for home." Matilda spoke up as she gave her a smile in return.


    "Let''s go." She spoke to Adam as she stood up and the man followed suit.


    Adam gave the doctor a nod in recognition before guiding her wife out of the office.


    Matilda stared at their retreating backs and shook her head before getting back to her work. She needed to submit the report on the surgery she had performed before Stella and Adam found her, so that she could go home.


    -------


    "Where are we going?" Stella questioned him as she gazed out of the tinted window. The route didn''t seem familiar to her.


    "You''ll see." Adam replied to her briefly which only piqued her interest.


    She gazed out of the window once again to make sure that they were not heading either towards the mansion or the penthouse. She shifted her gaze back to her man and pursed her lips in a pout when she found him busy in his phone. But deciding not to disturb him, she turned her head around as she went back to staring outside.


    She gazed at the tall trees as they swished by her vision. She stared into the distance and gazed at the half moon, shining up in the sky as it played hide and seek with white clouds.


    "What are you looking at?"


    A deep, familiar voice pulled her out of her thoughts, making her shift her attention to the man.


    "Nothing! I was just thinking that everything can go back to the way it was now." She spoke up as she scooted closer to him after seeing his empty hands.


    As if it was what the man was waiting for, he pulled her on his lap in one swift yet careful motion. "I hope so too. I just need to take care of some matters." He adjusted her position slightly so that her back was comfortably resting against his chest.


    Stella sneaked a look at the divider and relaxed a little after seeing that it was raised. "What matters?" Stella turned slightly on his lap so that she could look at his face and questioned him.


    "Just a bunch of matters at the base. After I am done with them, I will take care of the office too. You just need to look after the matters back at the company until then." He answered her as he rubbed the back of her head lovingly.


    "Yeah, sure! Your wife here is capable enough to look after the company for a little longer." Stella gave him a proud smirk.


    Hearing her more than confident words, Adam couldn''t help but chuckle. "Of course! My wife is more than capable of looking after the entire Levinson Empire." He pressed his lips against her forehead after praising her.


    "Are you going to tell me now about where we are going?" She asked him again, giving it one more shot to squeeze some information out of him. Even though she knew he wouldn''t tell her if he had set his mind on it, she still wanted to try.


    "No!" He shook his head and flicked her forehead. "You will have to see it yourself." He added with a smirk as he knew how she hated being kept in the dark. She would become really cranky instead of looking forward to the surprise. "I will just tell you that it''s a place."


    Hearing his words, Stella let out an annoyed groan. She knew that he had deliberately said that just to tease her. She shifted her face away from the man, but still continued to rest on his lap.


    Seeing her expressions, Adam''s lips curled up in a bright smile as he snaked his arms around her and pulled her to rest on his chest.


    ******


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 Chapter 292: The Young Mistress

    "What are we doing here?"


    Stella turned around and questioned the man who was standing behind her with his back leaning against the black car. She shifted her gaze back to the mansion which was standing tall and proud before her. To call it just a mansion, would be degrading the ancestral villa of the Levinsons. She wasn''t new to the place but she had only come here once.


    "Adam Levinson? Will you bother answering me?" She spoke up once again to get the man''s attention who was still standing in the same spot and in the same posture.


    "We will be living here for a little while. I need to make sure that the staff back at our mansion is fine. I have asked Uncle Rob to shift here for the time being as well. He will be coming here tomorrow." He answered his beloved wife while standing up straight. He walked towards her with slow and steady steps and hugged her from behind.


    "The security here is much stronger here than the base itself. I needed my soul to be at peace while I take care of some loose ends." He spoke up next to her ear as he rested his chin on her shoulder. "I can never work while knowing that you and our babies will always be at risk."


    "For how long?" She spoke up, leaning against his chest. "You do know that I am not made for this lifestyle." She heaved out a long sigh as the memories from her previous visit flashed through her mind.


    She wasn''t used to having maids on her beck and call every time she goes for a walk in the garden or wanted to have a bath. This was just too much for her.


    "Hey?" Adam turned her around in his arms. "It''s just for a little while, my love. And you deserve the whole world. You''ll get used to it. Just bear it for a little while for me." As if reading the thoughts on her mind, he spoke up softly as he gazed into her hazel orbs.


    He wanted to give her the world because she deserved it. But here she was, denying every possible way he wanted to spoil her through. Bringing her here for security was just an excuse for him to give her a more comfortable life during the pregnancy. He could have easily assigned more men to her All he needed to do was find a way to make her agree with


    "Only if you ask the maids to lay off me a little and give me my space." Stella put forward the condition before him to which he agreed right away like the lovesick husband he was, but in his own way, which only left Stella frustrated.


    "Sure, my love. But why are you asking me to do it? Do it yourself. After all, you are the Young Mistress of the Levinsons now. You can order them around as you please." He put forward his own condition before he began to guide her inside the mansion where the whole working staff was already waiting for their welcome.


    Dressed in dark and light gray working attire, they were standing in two lines on either side of the entrance. When they saw the couple approaching them, they bowed their heads as low as they could manage to while greeting them in unison.


    Stella heaved out an annoyed sigh after witnessing the sight. She wasn''t annoyed by their actions, but rather it was her dear husband who had managed to get on her nerves once again. She shook her head in helplessness and greeted them back in a polite tone. She continued to walk inside the mansion under the guidance of her husband.


    -------


    Twenty minutes later,


    Once they had settled inside the master bedroom which was double the size of Adam''s bedroom back at the mansion, Stella began to question him.


    "How did you find me?" She spoke as she snuggled closer to him.


    Adam shifted his attention from the spare laptop he was using, to the woman who was looking up at him with a curious gaze. His eyes trailed down to her body only to land on a baggy sweatshirt. Even though the wardrobe in there was filled with the finest of clothes to exist for a woman including sleeping wear too, his women still chose to wear his shirt over a pair of dolphin shorts.


    "Are you going to answer me or not?" She spoke up again as she flicked her wrist before his face to get his attention.


    "Isn''t it obvious?" He spoke up trailing his eyes back to her face.


    "But I want to know your side of the story." She pursed her lips in a pout and gave him a pleading look to which he only shook his head in helplessness.


    "Alright! I will tell you." Like always, Adam gave into her demands.


    -------


    Back in Berlin,


    "If you need anything, just give me a call." An elderly man spoke up as he helped Taylor settle in his bed.


    Despite his continuous protest to go to his penthouse in the main city, Carston has brought him to his mansion, giving him the reason that it would be better if he spent his time with him until the wound on his temple was completely healed.


    He wanted to argue with him, but knew that no matter how hard he tried, his father would not give into his pleas.


    "I am fine. You can leave now." He spoke to the housekeeper, who complied to his words right away and left the room after bowing before him.


    After seeing that he was left alone, he took his phone and scrolled through his contact list. After getting to the desired number, he hit the dial button.


    After the call was connected through, he talked to the other person for a while before getting out of the bed.


    "I am so sorry, Dad." He muttered under his breath as we walked out of the room and headed to his study.


    ******


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 Chapter 293: Back To The Base

    "Alright! I will tell you." Like always, Adam gave into her demands.


    He cleared his throat a little, before he began to explain it to her.


    -------


    *FLASHBACK*


    Adam was already on his way back to the banquet when his phone started ringing. He shifted his eyes from the road ahead to his phone which was plugged in with the car''s system. Seeing that it was just Blake calling him, he didn''t pick up the call at first, thinking that it must be regarding Lillian and Elena. But he changed his mind when he continued to call him.


    On the third call, Adam finally picked it up with frustration. "I am driving, you moron." He spoke in an annoyed tone. He was glad that he had connected the phone to the car on his way to the base and didn''t take it out during the time he was there. He had done so because he didn''t want to risk missing a call from her beloved wife if in case she decided to call him.


    "You need to hurry up!" Blake''s aggrieved voice came through the car''s speaker, which only left him baffled.


    "What do you mean by hurry up?" Adam replied back to him as he continued to keep his attention on the road ahead.


    "It''s Stella." Blake replied to him briey before he went quiet.


    The words reverberated through the closed space and forced Adam to push his foot on the brake. As the car came to a sudden stop after screeching over the stop, Adam pulled out the phone from its holder and pressed it against his ears.


    "What about Stella?" He asked him right away.


    "S-she¡­" Blake''s stuttering voice came through the phone''s speaker which only irked the man.


    "Blake, speak!" He spoke back as he demanded him to answer him. There was this nagging feeling he had been having in his chest the moment he left her there on her own. Though she wasn''t all alone there. She had a bunch of people who were keeping an eye on her every move. But he didn''t want to risk leaving her alone for long.


    "She''s missing." After hearing Adam''s demanding voice, Blake answered him. "I don''t know what exactly happened there, but my men found Edward in a beaten up state with no sign of Stella. He has been transferred to a hospital, and Wilson is making sure that he''s fine." He continued when he didn''t hear a response coming from his side.


    "What do you mean by she''s missing?" Adam yelled back at him. He couldn''t believe his words when he first heard him.


    "She is missing, Adam." Blake repeated his words from earlier.


    "She cannot go missing." Adam spoke under his breath, his words barely a whisper. A sudden gush of regret and guilt washed over his being as he refused to believe his ears. He was the one who had left her on her own. It wouldn''t be the case if he was there to accompany her. Or at least she wouldn''t have been alone.


    "We are trying our best to locate her. The thing doesn''t look so planned as the CCTV cameras in the parking lot were still working when they¡­ took her." Blake tried to reassure him even though he was feeling no better than him if not worse. Moreover, he was blaming himself for what had happened as it was him who had been looking out for Stella. "We will find here soon."


    "I am coming back to the base." Adam finally spoke up and disconnected the call without listening to him any further.


    He stared at the road ahead as dark thoughts began to consume his mind. The feeling of losing his beloved was continuously poking his senses, which only added to his dilemma. Moreover, how could he forget about his little angels, who were yet to see the world.


    "I am coming, my love. You just stay safe till then." He muttered under his breath and turned the steering wheel to his right. He wouldn''t let anyone harm his wife and babies. He wanted to look for them himself.


    He had barely drove a mile or two while heading back to the base when his phone which was now placed on his lap, started to ring once again. He shifted his eyes to the screen hoping that it was Blake who was calling him to tell him that they had found her. But to his dismay, it was Carston''s name which was flashing on the screen.


    For some unknown reason, he found the time of his call a little off. Why would he be calling him when they had barely even exchanged a couple of texts so far?


    He slowed down the speed of the car, and picked up the call.


    *FLASHBACK ENDS*


    -------


    "So, Carston is the one who told you where to find me." Stella spoke up after listening to him. Her words came out more like a statement than a question. Her thoughts drifted back to the time when she found him sitting so leisurely in the jet back there, and how he was waiting for her Taylor to arrive.


    "He sure is trying hard to make up to it." She spoke under her breath which earned him a questioning look from her husband.


    "What do you mean?" Adam questioned her after hearing her words.


    "Nothing. You need to sleep, so no more work." She spoke up as she pointed towards the laptop which was on sleep mode.


    "Alright." Adam shrugged his shoulders and agreed to her right away, not because he wanted to have some rest but rather he knew that she needed it more than him. Being pregnant, that too with twins, wasn''t an easy task.


    "Let''s sleep now, my love." He kissed the top of her head as he pulled her in his arms while he pressed the button on the side of his bed which automatically switched off half of the lights in the room, and dimmed the remaining ones just so the room wasn''t completely dark.


    "Goodnight, my love." He pressed his lips against the side of her head before he pulled the duvet up to cover their bodies.


    ******


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 Chapter 294: The Demise

    The next morning,


    Stella fluttered her eyes open as the pale golden rays of Sun hit her face, only to find the space next to her empty. But her tense self relaxed a bit when he saw the note which was resting on the bedside table for her.


    ''I am just downstairs. Take your time, and no need to rush.


    Love,


    Your A.


    XOXO''


    A smiled on her face as her mind eased a little. She just wanted to have him within her line of sight after last night''s incident, but being informed about his whereabouts would do the job as long as they were within the same building. Without bothering to look at the time, she got out of the covers and headed towards the bathroom after placing the note in the top drawer of the bedside table.


    She changed into a fresh pair of clothes after having a warm shower and decided to go through the business section of news first before heading down to have her breakfast with her better half.


    She opened Adam''s spare laptop and began to look through the news section about the business world of Germany, but she could barely focus on anything as soon as her eyes landed on the most trending news. Leaving the laptop on the bed, she headed downstairs with a hastened pace.


    "Adam!" Stella''s voice resonated through the quiet dining hall as her figure could be seen rushing down the stairs which led directly to the hall.


    The sight of her almost three months pregnant wife running down the stairs was more than enough to give the man a heart attack as he dropped the newspaper in his hands and made his way to her.


    He met her midway on the staircase and scolded her like a child who was being too mischievous before the newly arrived guests.


    "Have you lost your mind? How many times do I have to tell you to be careful?" He reprimanded her. Though his voice was firm, it was still laced with tenderness.


    "T-taylor." She let a stuttered reply as she pointed her trembling fingers towards the black screen of the LED which was fixed into the wall right beside the wide and long wooden dining table.


    "What about him?" Adam moved his gaze to the direction she was pointing in before shifting it back to her face. Looking at her troubled expressions, he repeated his question again. "What about Taylor, Stella?" He was worried that she might have had a nightmare, but looking at the slightly damp tips of her hair, he dumped the idea.


    "Turn on the TV and select some news channel." She answered him as she gazed back into his gray orbs.


    Seeing how bothered she looked, he nodded and guided her down the stairs. After making sure that she was securely sitting in the head chair of the table, he walked a little close to the big screen and spoke up in a firm tone.


    "Turn on."


    As if recognizing his voice, the black screen became lit and the sound of two people talking filled the room. Luckily for him, it was a news channel which was selected.


    After reading the news ticker and hearing the discussion of the two anchor persons, he drew his brows close and shifted his gaze back to his woman who was sitting like a statue in the same place he had made her sit.


    He shifted his attention back to the TV and began to head them with more attention.


    "What are your thoughts on this, Mr. Edward?" The female anchor spoke up as the camera focused on the guest analyst.


    After clearing his throat, he spoke up while looking into the camera. "First of all, I offer my condolences to his family, especially to Mr. Carston. Secondly, I was just as shocked as you are when I received the news about Mr. Taylor''s demise. What shocked me more was the fact that he killed himself. I wonder what could have forced the man to take such a step."


    The female journalist continued to nod her head at his every word as she waited for him to finish.


    "I agree with you, but can you put some light on how it will affect the company and the stocks?" She spoke up as she brought the light back to Williamson''s Tech. She was clearly much concerned about the company''s market value than the man in question who had killed himself.


    "Well, for one, this is clearly going to affect the company as we can clearly see that the stocks of Williamson''s Tech. has taken a deep dive within the span of just an hour after the news about his suicide was put out by the concerned authorities." He answered the woman.


    "Turn off."


    Adam spoke up and the screen went back once again while he walked back to his woman who was still in the same posture. He came to a stop before her and picked her up before walking towards the staircase which was heading to the upper floor.


    "We will have our breakfast in the room." He spoke in a loud and crisp voice to the maid who had just walked inside.


    As the maid bowed her head low, he continued to carry Stella up the stairs without looking back at the maid. He needed to make sure that she wasn''t affected too much by this. The stress wasn''t good for the babies and her own health. He wondered how she was able to find the news just after getting up.


    He knew she wasn''t affected by the news that he was dead, but rather the way he died. And somewhere deep inside her heart, she was blaming herself for his death.


    He wanted to kill the man once again for putting his wife in such a condition. But too bad that he wouldn''t be able to do it. He shifted his eyes from the hallway ahead to the woman in his arms who was too quiet for her own good.


    He heaved out a long sigh as he continued to walk towards their room. He made a mental note to give Carston a call after making sure that his wife had eaten her breakfast.


    ******


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 Chapter 295: A Little Over A Day

    One day later,


    A car came to a stop before a marble archway which had the words ''CEMETERY'' carved in the grayish white colored stone. Before the driver could step out and walk around the car to open the backseat door, it opened from the inside, and a man who was dressed in a crisp black suit, stepped out.


    Adam let his eyes roam around the surroundings as he observed the bodyguards who were already in their positions, ready to take out any kind of danger which may be a threat to the couple''s safety.


    Though after Taylor''s death, Adam doubted that there would be someone who might try to harm Stella or their babies as the news about his return was already spreading like a wildfire, he still didn''t wanna risk their safety.


    After making sure that everyone was in their positions, he walked around the car and opened the door for his lady as he helped her in getting out.


    Stella was dressed in a pair of plain black trousers which was paired with a baggy matching shirt which covered her slightly protruding belly. A pair of black, reflecting shades rested on the bridge of her nose as a back hat rested on top of her head like a crown, protecting her face from the bright rays of sun.


    With her right arm tucked securely within Adam''s bended elbow, she let him guide her through the cemented pathway. Adam was more than reluctant in bringing her along, but she was adamant about accompanying him to the funeral.


    She wanted to be there, not because she was blaming herself for the man''s death, but for Carston. He had no one left behind, the least she could do for him was to be there for him at a time like this. That''s the only way she could think of to repay him for his help. If it wasn''t for him, Adam might have never found her.


    On the other hand, Adam''s worries were founded on her reaction from the previous day. She had been too quiet for his liking throughout the day. Though she was doing better now, he didn''t wanna risk her going back to the star quiet state. He loved her nagging self too much for bearing her silence. He didn''t want to bring her along, but the hen-pecked husband in him wouldn''t let him go against the wishes of his wife.


    "Just let me know when you want to leave, okay?" He tilted his head slightly towards her and muttered under his breath only to see her head bobbing up and down in response ever so slightly.


    At her lack of interest in him and his words, Adam frowned a little but didn''t say much and continued to walk ahead in the direction where he could see a small crowd gathered before a casket.


    After arriving close to the casket, the duo paid their respects to the dead as Stella let her eyes roam over Taylor''s pale face. No matter how hard she tried to mask her expressions, she couldn''t stop herself from frowning as her eyes landed on the white bandage on the side of his head which still had a tinge of red in its center.


    "Are you okay, my love?" Adam spoke next to her ear as he brought her closer to himself and hugged her from the side.


    "Yeah! Let''s have a word with Carston." She gave him a meek reply as she pointed her chin in the other direction where a man who was dressed in the same back attire as Adam, was sitting on a chair. Unlike the previous times she had met him, he was holding a cane in his right hand. He seemed to have aged just in the span of a little over a day.


    "Sure!" Adam agreed to her right away. For him, the sooner they get done with this, the earlier they can leave the place. He just wanted to be with her in the confinements of their home and have her in his arms. People could call him selfish, but that was how he was when it concerned his little elf. He slipped his hand to the back of her guided her around the digged gr


    "I am sorry about your loss." Stella spoke up as they approached him.


    Seeing her before him, Carston stood up with the help of his cane and before she could say anything else, he hugged her. Baffled by his actions, Stella continued to stand in the same place, letting him hug her.


    She brought her free hand around his back and patted it lightly while still clutching onto Adam''s hand with her other hand. He didn''t cry as Stella might have expected him to, but he just continued to hug her.


    Adam gave her palm a reassuring squeeze, just to let her know that he was there with her as he stared at their figures with a helpless look on his face.


    He wondered since when did the old man become so close to his wife. It couldn''t have been the night of Stella''s abduction as he was there to witness the way she was hugging him from the side as if he was the last strand of hope for her. It had to be the time she went behind his back to meet him in Amsterdam.


    "Thank you for coming." After a two minutes or so, Carston finally spoke up as he let go of Stella before sitting back in the chair.


    "It''s no big deal." Stella spoke up in response as she helped him in sitting down. And how could Adam let her do the hard work by herself and just watched? After the duo made sure that he was securely sitting in his seat, Stella spoke in a soft tone and reprimanded him. "You should look after yourself."


    From the way his hands were trembling, she could tell that he wasn''t looking after himself. And seeing him in such a condition, didn''t settle well with her. She would rather tolerate his haughty self than seeing him like this.


    ******


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 Chapter 296: I Forgot One Thing

    "Are you sure you''re going to be fine here?" Adam spoke up as he fixed the woolen comforter which was covering her legs, making sure that they properly covered and her bare legs were not peaking out of anywhere.


    After returning from the funeral, they had just settled in to have some rest when Adam had received a call from Blake. His presence was needed at the base. Though he didn''t want to leave Stella back here, taking her along with him would only make her tired and she was already feeling sleepy from their trip to the cemetery.


    "I will be fine, you worrywart." Stella rolled her eyes as she leaned her back against the headboard while keeping her gaze on her hen-pecked husband. "And I won''t skip my lunch." She added with a smile.


    "You better not." Giving her one last glare, he leaned in to press a kiss against her forehead. "I will miss you." He muttered against her forehead as he let his lips linger on her skin for a little longer.


    "I will miss you too." Stella spoke as she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled his face down before she pressed her lips against his. She slowly began to move her lips over his thin, cold ones.


    He couldn''t help but respond to her advances and kiss her back with the same burning passion. A single from her was enough to make his soul burn with passion.


    He had been craving to have his way with her little elf for so long now, to feel how her lips molded perfectly against his. But the fear of not being able to stop himself in time, always made him stop. He didn''t want to risk hurting her and their babies just because he couldn''t keep his desires in check.


    It was the only reason he had been avoiding to kiss her on the lips. But here she was, being the naughty little elf which she was.


    Tracing his fingers up her shoulders, he settled them on the nape of her and pulled her closer as he began to suck on her lips, alternating between the two. Only he knew how much he had been dying just to have a taste of her lips.


    "Mmmm."


    A low moan resonated through the quietness of the room which only acted as an alarm clock for the beast in him. Going against every single ounce of desire he had in him, he parted his lips from hers.


    "Someone''s being naughty, huh?" He gazed into her hazel orbs lovingly and flicked her forehead.


    "I miss my boyfriend Adam." Stella spoke up as she pursed her lips in a pout. "This husband version of him isn''t fun." She continued while looking up at him with a complaining gaze.


    "Because your dear husband cares more about you that he needs to put on a leash on the beast in him, even if that means hearing complaints from you for a couple of months." He flicked her forehead only to get a ''ouch'' in response. He knew it was just her being over dramatic as he had barely used any force in it.


    "I will take my leave now, your Highness." He tapped her nose and pressed a quick kiss against her lips before he took a couple of steps away from the king-sized bed. "I will be back soon, my love. Until then, you better take care of yourself."


    He turned around and began to head towards the door only to stop in his tracks. "I forgot one thing." He muttered under his breath as he turned back to face her.


    "What?" She gave him a questioning look when she saw him making his way back to her.


    "I forgot one thing." He repeated his words from earlier. Coming to a stop next to her, he went down his right knee. "I forgot to kiss our babies goodbye." He continued before he raised her sweatshirt up a little and placed a lingering kiss on her slightly protruding belly. "Don''t trouble your mother too much while I am gone." He mumbled against her protruding belly before retracting his lips.


    Reaching her face, he cupped her cheeks with his right palm and looked up at her with a loving gaze. "I love your mother too much for her to go through any discomfort even if it''s you two little devils." The corner of his lips turned up as he gave her a bright smile, showing off his pearly white teeth to her.


    Hearing his words, Stella couldn''t help but shake her head helplessly. "Off you go now, Mister. We don''t want Blake to bust in here now, do we?" She reprimanded him as she clearly didn''t want him to get late. If Blake had asked him to come, then it must be something important.


    "As you say, my love." He chuckled a little before getting on his feet. Giving her one more kiss on the top of her head, he headed towards the door once again.


    She continued to stare at his back until he was no longer in her line of sight. A yawn escaped her lips which she tried to suppress as she slipped into the covers. She needed to have a nap to wash over the day''s tiredness off her body before she could have her lunch.


    Taylor''s death did take a toll on her. It was hard for her to believe that the man who had abducted her a day back, was dead. Not only that, he shot himself. It was hard for her to accept the fact. But she was more bothered by Carston''s state of mind.


    Though he didn''t say it out loud, she could tell from his condition that Taylor meant a lot to him. Despite the fact that he wasn''t related to him by blood, the man had raised the boy all by himself. He was the only family he had known, and she knew it wouldn''t be easy for him to move on from this.


    ******


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 Chapter 297: The Traitor

    "Why did you call me? It better be important, or else you are dead meat." Adam spoke up as he made his way into Blake''s office.


    "Who managed to get on your nerves?" Blake looked at him quizzically, shifting slightly in his swiveling chair.


    "You did." Adam spat back at him as he settled down on the chair across him.


    "Oh! Come on, man. Don''t be such a hen-pecked husband. You know I would never call you if it''s not work related. Moreover, when was the last time you hung out with your childhood buddy?" Blake narrowed his eyes at him and spoke through his clenched jaw.


    Hearing his words, Adam couldn''t help himself but chuckle in response. "You sure are a hypocrite. Do I have to remind you of the times when you used to ditch me just because there was someone back here who needed more of your attention?"


    The corner of his lips turned upwards ever so slightly as he passed the man who was sitting on the other side of the desk, a lop-sided grin, only to earn an eye roll in return.


    "No need to act so smug, Adam Levinson. Both of us how crazy we are when it comes to the women in our lives." Blake shook his head sideways and let out a low chuckle.


    "You are right, but can we go to the main topic here? I cannot stay here for long." Adam interrupted him before he could continue further.


    After seeing Stella''s reaction to the news about Taylor''s demise, he didn''t want to leave her alone even if it was in the confinements of their own home. Though she was doing better now, he still wanted to be by her side. He couldn''t risk her mental health at all, as it would not only affect her, but their babies as well.


    He knew that Stella would hate herself if anything was to happen to their unborn children, and that she would have his neck on a blade if something of the sort might happen.


    "I thought you might want to have a chat with the man in person for once before we take care of him." Blake answered him. He didn''t want to stay for too long here as well for he was missing Lillian.


    She wanted to follow him to the base but he had turned her down because he knew that she might need some rest after the ordeal of the other day. He knew it would be better to give her some space to get her thoughts straight than letting her tag along with him to the base.


    "Actually, yes! I would love to have a chat with that traitor." Adam nodded his head in a yes as he got up from the chair. "I have been dying to know as to why he betrayed me and the company."


    "Well, I wanted to know the same, but I thought it would be better if you are the one who gets to interrogate him." Blake added before following his suite. He got up from his swiveling chair and made his way around the wooden, carved desk.


    "Let''s go and play some good cop, bad cop." He added as he made his way towards the door with Adam in tow.


    "Nah! It''s time to play some bad cop, bad cop." Adam corrected him as a sinister smile embraced his lips.


    -------


    Five minutes later,


    Two figures, which were completely clad in black from head to toe with only their faces and hands standing out, stepped out of the elevator.


    Adam let his eyes roam around the empty hallway which was shrouded in darkness. The eerie silence which engulfed the entire floor was enough to send anyone shivering in fear. But the two men were unfazed by it. Either their mental strength was too strong to be affected by it, or it was the fact that both of them had spent their adolescent running through the very halls.


    The sound of their boots clicking against the tiled floor was the only thing which could be heard through the deafening silence. The metallic stench which ruled the air was enough to leave a bad taste in someone''s mouth.


    "Where is he?" Adam questioned the man who was walking beside him now as his eyes moved over the shut doors one by one.


    "He is in ''the'' room." Balke briefly replied to him, knowing fully well that it was enough for him to realize what room he was referring to.


    Each of the rooms on this floor was a cell, but each of them were modified to serve for a specific purpose. But the room Blake was referring to served a special purpose as it was reserved for those people who deserved to be taught a lesson in the most inhumane ways.


    "Cool!" Adamn exclaimed as the sinister smile on his face only deepened.


    He walked towards the end of the corridor and took a turn on his right. He knew the place like the back of his hand and didn''t need Blake to show him the way to the room.


    All he wanted to do then was to confront the man and teach him a lesson. Though he would prefer to leave the teaching him a lesson part to Blake as he had been out of the game for too long now. Moreover, he knew it would not do him any good if Stella managed to get a whiff about the matter.


    His steps came to a halt as he stared at the metallic door ahead which had layers of paint scraped away from certain places. The scratches which followed the scraped off paint was proof that someone must have struggled against it.


    The mere sight was enough to send shivers creeping down a person''s spine, but Adam was barely affected by it.


    Shrugging his shoulders in a nonchalant way, he dusted off the thoughts of his beloved wife as for now. He needed to act like the Adam Levinson who was known to be cruel with his enemies.


    With a devilish grin tugging at the corners of his lips, he extended his hand towards the door knob and turned it slightly.


    ******


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 Chapter 298: What Do You Have To Say In Your Defense?

    With a devilish grin tugging at the corners of his lips, he extended his hand towards the door knob and turned it slightly.


    With slow and firm steps, Adam walked inside the room with Blake in tow. The very moment the two men stepped inside, they couldn''t help but scrunch their noses as the metallic odor of soiled blood wafted up their senses.


    Adam''s eyes wandered around the room which looked more like a torture cell with paint srapping off the walls at certain places and the eerie silence which lingered in the air. It wasn''t that they couldn''t get the paint fixed and get the walls tinted with a nice, mellow shade instead of the splashes of deep moron liquid. They wanted people to tremble with fear the moment they were brought to this room.


    "Turn the lights on." He instructed one of the four men who were standing by the wall on his left in a line with their heads bowed down. The yellow lamp hanging down from the ceiling barely helped him with his vision. He wanted to see with his own eyes the damage his men had done to the traitor.


    "Yes, Boss!" One of the men, who was standing close to the switches, spoke up in a flat tone. He more or less sounded like a robot who was just programmed to follow the commands given by its owner. But then again, that was how they were trained in the first place, to be cold blooded assassins.


    As some clicking sounds filled the eerie silence, white flickering like invaded the room, blinding the people for a fleeting second except for the lone figure which was thrown in the other corner of the room with his face covered by a black mask.


    "Well, well! Who do we have here?" Adam spoke up in an annoyed tone which was laced with nothing but seething rage.


    The moment he found out that this man was missing after resigning from his post right before Parker went missing. Even the best of his men were not able to find him. If it wasn''t for Carston helping him out, he might have not been able to get his hands on this man.


    "Pull off the mask." He added in a gruff tone to which one of the men complied while blake continued to stand behind him, giving the reins in his hands.


    After the man''s face was visible, Adam sauntered over to him, not bothering himself to be mindful of the puddles of clotted blood lying on the floor.


    "I hope you are having a great time here." He stared back into the man''s horrified eyes and muttered under his breath. The sudden rush of blood lust which was building within him was making it hard for him to keep a leash around his sanity.


    He gritted his teeth to control the building rage within him as he stared at the man with a hateful gaze. If it wasn''t for him betraying the company, then Parker wouldn''t have gone missing and he wouldn''t have walked into Taylor''s trap. What mattered to him more was the time he was forced to spend away from his beloved woman. He wasn''t by her side when she needed him the most. He wasn''t there to get to know about the existence of his children.


    All because one of his subordinates betrayed him.


    The man let out a muffled cry as he stared back into Adam''s eyes. For him, the man before him who was his boss formerly, looked no less than the grim reaper. As he stared into his burning orbs, he couldn''t think of the dreadful time when he was forced to betray his boss.


    ---------


    *FLASHBACK*


    "How are things going over at the new site?" Taylor asked the man who was sitting across him. He could see the man tremble slightly in fear, making him smile. He was right to fear him, for he could ruin him and his entire family, along with generations to come.


    "It''s going well so far, just like you asked." The man, who was wearing a light beige suit, replied as he shoved one of his hands inside his pants'' pockets, as if looking for something.


    A few minutes later, he took out a black colored flash drive and passed it to him with shivering hands.


    "It has all the details of the project, including the layout of the site." The man added with his trembling voice.


    "Good job." Taylor picked up the drive as a sinister smile adorned his face.


    "I did exactly what you asked me to. Please don''t harm my family, I beg you." The man pleaded.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t harm them. You fulfilled your end of the bargain, it''s my turn to fulfill mine. Your family will be left unscathed." Taylor added before he flicked his fingers.


    A man who was standing by the door of the room walked towards the couch where Taylor was sitting. He came to a halt a few steps away from him and bowed his head.


    "Take him to see his family. And make sure you drop them by their house. It would be rude to make our guests go by themselves. We should show him some hospitality, right?" He spoke to the man clad in black, who nodded his head slightly before guiding the man out of the room.


    "I have one more request Mr. Taylor. Please don''t let Boss know that I am the one who had betrayed him.


    *FLASHBACK ENDS*


    --------


    Adam bent forward and pulled down the piece of cloth which was wound over his lips, preventing the man from speaking as he questioned him. "What do you have to say in your defence?"


    Like always he was giving the other party a chance to speak first before he had his say. His eyes roamed over the man''s bare torso, which had a number of bandages wound around it to prevent him from bleeding out too much, as he waited for his answer.


    ******


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 Chapter 299: End The Very Same Way

    Like always he was giving the other party a chance to speak first before he had his say. His eyes roamed over the man''s bare torso, which had a number of bandages wound around it to prevent him from bleeding out too much, as he waited for his answer.


    "I-I¡­ am sorry, B-boss." He let out a stuttering response as he trailed his eyes off Adam''s face. No matter how much he tried, he couldn''t look into his eyes.


    He was more than ashamed of his actions when he found out about how he went missing from the site. He knew that he had a hand in the matter, maybe both of his hands. If it wasn''t for him giving that flash drive to Taylor, the whole fiasco wouldn''t have happened in the first place.


    "Sorry?" Adam stared back at him and scoffed after hearing his apology. "I gave you a chance to say something in your defense, and all you managed to mutter was an apology. Looks like you really are guilty." Adam spoke through his clenched teeth. The more he listened to the man, the harder it was getting for him to control the building rage within him.


    "I-I know that I am the one responsible for what happened to the site, and you. Besides apologizing, there is nothing I can do or say at the moment." He let out a whimpering response. His eyes were casted down on his own legs which were tied together as he was still too scared to look into the eyes of the devil before him.


    Adam let out a mocking chuckle after hearing the man''s words. What could an apology do to change what had already happened? The damages done to the business empire which his father had brought to new heights, couldn''t be undone with a simple apology. Moreover, the woman who was the love of his life, was left to deal with those damages.


    "But I swear that I didn''t have any other choice. He was blackmailing me using my family. If I knew that he would use that flash drive to bring harm to you, I might have given you a heads up." Before Adam could speak up, the man continued.


    "What flash drive?" Adam questioned him. All he knew was that the man before him was considered to be a suspect as the time he resigned was too convenient with how things went on then. If it wasn''t for Carston''s help, he might have never been able to put the label of culprit on the man before him. But he didn''t know what flash drive the man was referring to.


    "He wanted to have the blueprints of the project site. As you know, only a few of the higher ups had access to those files besides you. I swear I had no idea what he was going to do with them." He sniffled and answered him. He wasn''t lying though. He might have seeked Adam''s help if he had any idea about his sinister plans. He thought he just wanted to have more control over the project.


    "And what else did you expect he will do with them? Convert them into a portrait and hang it on a wall in his living room?" Adam snarled. He was starting to understand how he managed to bring down the entire site that easily. Taylor knew the exact points where to plant those explosives to bring it down.


    "I-I¡­ said¡­ I am sorry. Please let me go back to my wife and children." He begged in response, apologizing to Adam once again.


    "I could care any less about your family at the moment. Neither did you seem to when you were running around the world just to stay away from my clutches! You left them to fend for themselves after resigning from the job. No, wait! You did leave them a hell lot of money so that they can spend their lives with ease for a couple of months. You planned to return back to them after the smoke had cleared off, but when you found out what actually happened, you changed your mind. You decided to lay off the grid so that you wouldn''t be implicated in the mess." Adam spat back at him.


    "It''s already too late for an apology. Moreover, I need to set an example for those people who are thinking about crossing me even in the slightest bit." He added, gritting his teeth together. "I give you my word that your family will be taken care of as your eldest son will be given a job at one of the subsidiaries under Levinson''s Corp. But you will end the very same way those spies did."


    Giving the man one last look, he walked away. He was about to step out of the room when the man''s cry made its way into her ears.


    "End how?"


    "Dead." With a sinister smile gracing his lips, Adam answered him without looking back at him.


    He walked out of the cold and bleak room with Blake in tow. Neither of the two men paid any attention to the muffled cries and whimpers which followed Adam''s words.


    "You sure with your decision?" Blake asked him for confirmation. He didn''t want the man to regret it later for he knew how it felt and tasted.


    "I am more than sure." Adam gave him a brief reply as he continued to walk down the same hallway he had walked in earlier.


    It wasn''t an easy decision to make for him, but he knew he had to do it. He couldn''t go soft on people who had brought harm to him or his family. He needed to set up an example for the rest of the business world that this was what would befall on them too if any one of them decided to go against him. He needed to put on a show for people like Taylor, who was the one holding more power, whether it was the business world of Germany, or the underworld of Europe.


    For his woman as his children, he was ready to be the devil people labelled him as.


    ******


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 Chapter 300: Not A Fan Of Coffee

    "Young Mistress?" A soft, feeble voice filled the quietness of the room.


    A woman who was in her late thirties, stood next to the king sized bed as she waited for her Young Mistress to wake up. She didn''t know what to do provided with the current circumstances. There was a man waiting downstairs, claiming that he needed to have an urgent talk with her Young Miss.


    The caretaker had tried contacting their Young Master, but his cell phone was out of reach. They were in a dilemma as to what to do with the man. The only option which was left for them was to wake up the Young Mistress and consult it with her. Though they didn''t want to disturb her sleep, they weren''t left with no other choice.


    "Young Mistress?" She spoke up once again to get the sleeping lady''s attention and to pull her out of her deep slumber. She was already dreading the outcome of her actions. Her Young Master would probably have her head if he found out about the current situation after returning to home.


    "Mmm¡­" Stella finally shifted a little under the covers and let out an annoyed response. "What is it?"


    "I apologize for the disturbance, but there is someone waiting for you downstairs." The maid spoke up in the same soft tone as she bowed her head a little despite knowing the fact that her Young Mistress still hadn''t bothered to open her eyes.


    "Who is it?" Stella mumbled softly as she stretched her arms in the air. She blinked her eyes slowly as to let them get used to the light while she waited for the maid to answer her..


    "The man refuses to talk to anyone beside you. We did try to call Young Master, but his cell phone is out of reach." The maid answered her politely.


    "It''s fine! I will be downstairs in a while. Till then, make sure that our guest is at ease." Stella spoke up as she made her way out of the covers. She knew that Adam might still be at the base which would explain his cell being out of reach.


    "As you say, Young Mistress." The maid bowed her head once again before she made her way out of the room.


    Stella looked at her retreating figure and heaved out a tired sigh once she was no longer in her line of sight. It was still weird for her seeing all these servants around. She doubted that she will ever get used to it. She couldn''t wait for the day that they would go back to the mansion. It was much less crowded than the ancestral mansion.


    Heaving out another sigh, she got out of the bed and made her way to the walk-in closet. She wondered how Adam had managed to fill it with maternity clothes on such a short notice, but it was a good thing as she could wear some loose clothes. She didn''t want to risk the news of her pregnancy getting out until they were sure that there was no one left who''d want to harm them or their babies.


    She chose black shirt which was two sizes too big for her and paired it with a balck and white striped trouser. Grabbing her other essentials, she made her way to the bathroom. She needed to wash the tiredness off her face before making her way down to entertain their guest.


    She was hoping for Adam to return back soon. She never liked interacting with people, but it would not be good either to send the man away without listening to him. If only Adam was there, she wouldn''t have to bear it.


    "Let''s get done with this." She mumbled to herself as she turned on the tap of the basin after hanging her clothes on the rack.


    ----------


    Fifteen minutes later,


    "Good afternoon." Stella spoke up as she made her way into the living room.


    A man who was clad in a black three piece suit was sitting leisurely on the sofa. A steaming cup of coffee was placed before her on the glass table. After seeing the lady of the house walking towards him, he stood up to show his respect. After all, he was merely a lawyer.


    "Please accept my apologies for disturbing you, but there is something that we need to talk about." He spoke up in a humble tone.


    "I am all ears." Stella added as her steps came to a stop. She settled down on the couch across him as she motioned him to follow the suite. "Please."


    He nodded his head in a yes and sat down back on the couch. "My name is Stanly." He introduced himself.


    "So, Mr. Stanly, may I ask why are you here?" Stella spoke up as she crossed her right leg over her left. Her eyes trailed to the mug of coffee which was left untouched. "Not a big fan of coffee, I assume." She added before shifting his attention to the man.


    "I was just waiting for the host to arrive." He shook his head before picking up the mug. "Let''s get to the main point." He muttered after taking a sip of the warm rich liquid.


    Stella nodded her head in a yes. The more quickly she got done with it, the faster she could go back into the comforts of her bed. She wondered how she managed to sleep this much?


    "I am a lawyer by profession, but instead of dealing with my client''s regular lawsuits, I tend to look after his personal ones." He spoke up after taking another sip of his coffee.


    "And who exactly is that client you are talking about?" Stella could tell that he was only here because someone asked him to do so. But what made her curious was the identity of his client. Who wanted to disturb the peace of her life now that Taylor was gone?


    "Mr. Taylor Carston." The man answered her.


    ******


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 Chapter 301: Early Lunch

    "Mr. Taylor Carston."


    His words reverberated through her senses and she couldn''t stop herself from frowning.


    "What did you say?" She refused to believe her ears and questioned the man again. How could it be Taylor who had sent this man when he was six feet under the ground already. She was there and she had seen his burial with her own eyes.


    Her mind was a mess as she refused to believe the man''s words. But then again, he was sitting across her claiming that it was Taylor who had sent him. She didn''t know what or who to believe. Should she believe her eyes which had seen the man''s pale and not so alive body? Or should she trust the words of a stranger?


    Stanly, who was sitting across her in silence, was busy observing every single expression which flashed across her face. He could somewhat understand the thoughts which were going on through her mind. He would have faced the same doubts if it was him in her shoes.


    "You heard me right, Mrs. Levinson. I am indeed here because Mr. Taylor asked me to be the conveying medium. But it''s not like what you are thinking. He is no longer with us. I was just asked to do my job after his burial has been done." He spoke up not wanting to see the lady''s troubled expressions any longer. He knew that she was pregnant and in no way he would let a pregnant lady go through an emotional turmoil.


    "Oh!" Stella let out a brief response as she didn''t know what else to say to the man. But she had to accept that she indeed felt a little relieved after hearing his words. ''Does this make me a bad person?'' She wondered to herself.


    "Then why exactly are you here?" She spoke up in a crisp and clear tone. She wanted to get the man out of her sight as soon as she could manage to. Moreover, she was missing a certain someone way too much.


    "This letter." He replied to her as he placed the mug back on the table. From the inside pocket of his black coat, he pulled out a white rectangular envelope and placed it down on the glass table next to the mug of coffee.


    "I was given clear instructions to give this to you after the burial. Sorry that it took me a while to find your location." He continued as he pressed the envelope with two fingers before sliding it to her side. He sat up straight after passing her the envelope and picked up the mug once again.


    Stella shifted her eyes from the man to the white rectangular envelope which laid before her. She reached for it but didn''t pick it up, rather she let her fingers rest over it.


    He observed her actions and continued to enjoy his coffee. He had to accept that the coffee was indeed good, and didn''t have the heart to leave it to go waste. He wanted to leave the lady to her thoughts, but he also needed to make sure that she didn''t have any questions for him before he left.


    "If you have any questions for me, let me know." Not being able to take the slady''s silence any longer, he spoke up.


    "When did he give you the letter?" Stella spoke up after a while as she tapped her fingers over it. She had so many questions going through her mind that she didn''t know where to start. Did the man really planned his suicide? And if he did, what could have been so important which he wanted to say to her?


    "He didn''t actually give me a letter. He instructed me over the phone call to type it." Stanly replied to her. "And just told me who I should deliver it to."


    "And you didn''t bother to stop him?" Stella looked at the man across her with utter bafflement. She couldn''t believe her ears for the second time in the same day. "Aren''t you too insensitive?" She stared at the man across her.


    "Do you think I knew what he was about to do?" Stanly shook his head. "I had no idea what was going through the man''s mind. If I did I would have called Mr. Carston. When I asked him when I should deliver the letter? He replied that I will know it on my own."


    His words once again left Stella speechless. How could someone like Taylor be so selfless right before he killed himself? What was so important he needed to tell her? She couldn''t help but be curious about the letter.


    Seeing that the lady had recovered from the shock, the man thought it would be better to give her some time on her own. His eyes shifted to the mug before him which was still half filled. "I shall take my leave then." He muttered with a heavy heart as he stood up from the couch.


    "Thank you." Stella mumbled softly without looking up. Her eyes were still glued to the envelope with her fingers tapping the transparent glass top of the table.


    "I was just doing my job." Stanly replied only to get a nod in response from her. He nodded his head as he made his way out of the living.


    A man who was clad in the same uniform as the maid who had received him when he arrived, was waiting right outside the door of the living room to guide him outside the mansion.


    "Lunch is ready, Young Mistress." A maid walked in and spoke up from a distance to get her attention.


    "I will be in my room. Make sure that nobody disturbs me. I will come downstairs for lunch when I feel like eating." Stella spoke up in a firm tone as she got off the couch. Picking up the envelope from the tale she made her way out of the living hall while the maid continued to stand in her place with her head bowed down. She didn''t have any other choice but to listen to the lady of the house though they were under strict orders to prepare an early lunch for her.


    ******


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 Chapter 302: In Another Lifetime

    Stella was sitting on the bed with her legs folded under her. Her eyes were fixed on the white envelope which was resting before her on the sprawled lemon yellow covers. She was contemplating whether or not she should open it on her own. She didn''t have a single clue to what might be in there, and she wasn''t expecting it to be something good either.


    Heaving out a long, frustrated sigh, she picked up the white envelope and tore open its seal. She knew that she didn''t have the patience to wait until her beloved husband arrived and do it with him. For her, it was better to get done with it sooner rather than later.


    She pulled out a folded piece of paper from within the envelope which was securely tucked inside. After unfolding the letter, she began to read it as her eyes roamed over the typed letters. The letter still smelled of fresh ink which whafted up her nostrils, and she couldn''t help but scrunch her nose.


    ''If this letter has found its way to you, then it''s already too late for me to make any sort of amendments. So instead of dawdling around how I should have acted and where I went wrong with my actions, I will just get to the point.


    The sole purpose of this letter is to apologize to you. I am sorry for whatever the trouble I brought upon you. I won''t apologize for what I did to your husband, but I want to apologize for what it made you go through.


    I hope that you are doing good, and that you will do better.


    And I hope the next time we meet, things will go down a different path. Maybe I will be the person with whom you will choose to spend the rest of your life. With the very hope, I bid you my farewell.


    Goodbye!


    Taylor Carston.''


    Stella continued to stare at the letter even after she was done reading it. She didn''t know what to make of it. She could understand that he wanted to apologize to her and she was fine with accepting his apology. But did he really took such a step with the hopes that he might be able to get the chance to reunite with her in another lifetime. Wasn''t he being too conceited?


    He could have tried to make amends. He could have tried being a better person before approaching her for an apology. But was it so hard for him to change himself and be a better man that he deemed taking his own life much easier.


    The more she thought about it, the more melancholic she felt. In her wayward thoughts, she began to blame herself for what happened to him. If it wasn''t for her, he might have chosen another path.


    The grip of her fingers on the letter loosened a little and it ended up lying next to her on the bed. She was too lost in her thoughts to notice the door opening and closing, let alone the sound of the steps which filled the room. Only when the steps closed in did she notice them.


    Blinking her eyes a couple of times, she regained her focus and looked up from her lap. Her eyes landed on the person she had been missing so badly since the moment she was forced to wake up from her nap.


    He was still in the same outfit which made it obvious that he had just returned back and here he was tending to her needs right away. Her eyes trailed to the large tray in his hands and she couldn''t help but shake her head. He had always been so thoughtful when it came to her needs. He was there to fulfil her needs without her asking for it.


    "You should have at least changed first." She muttered under her breath softly when she saw him settling the tray down on the bed.


    He walked around the bed and came to a stop next to the bedside table. Taking off his watch, he placed it down before settling down next to her, careful of his movements. His eyes trailed to the letter which was resting by her side.


    He had just arrived at the mansion when one of the staff informed him about the arrival of the uninvited guest and that Stella had to meet him. He was curious about the identity of the man. He was on his way to the master bedroom to question Stella about it when the caretaker stopped him. He was informed that his dear wife refused to have her lunch early.


    For him, her health topped the list, and then came everything else. That was why he had brought up their lunch to the room so that he could make sure that she ate enough.


    "Let''s eat first." he picked up the letter and placed it on the bedside table after folding it down the already existing creases.


    "The letter is from Taylor. He made arrangements beforehand so that it will find its way to me." Stella spoke as she scooted closer to him. She knew he wouldn''t question her about it until she was done with her lunch, and she really wanted to talk about it.


    "I could tell it from the contents of the letter, but let''s eat first. We can talk about it later." He wrapped and around her and pulled her closer. He had barely skimmed through the letter, but it was enough for him to know who was the sender.


    "No, I want to talk about it now," Stella spoke up in protest as she rested her head on his shoulder.


    "Food first, my love. And if you are worried about that he might be able to snatch you away in another lifetime, I would never allow it. Whether it''s this lifetime or another, you will always belong to me. You will always be Mrs. Adam Levinson, so stop fretting over the nonsense he spouted. Moreover, it wasn''t your fault. He made the decision on his own." He pressed a kiss on the crown of her head and let his lips linger there for long.


    He knew that his little elf had a tendency to overthink. It didn''t take him long to realize that she was still blaming herself for the choice which Taylor made for himself.


    "Let''s eat now, Mrs. Levinson. I can''t say about you, but I am famished." He added before pressing another kiss on top of her head.


    ******


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 Chapter 303: End Up With Wrinkles

    Six months later,


    "What are you doing?" Adam shot up from the couch and rushed towards the stairs. The lone figure of his wife descending down the staircase was more than enough to give his poor heart a shock.


    "How many times do I have to scold you? Just call someone if you need anything, or you can just give me a call." He muttered out as he hastily made his way up the staircase to meet her midway.


    Staring down at her figure, he wrapped an arm around her shoulders as he offered her the other one to hold. "You never listen to me." He added before he began to guide her down the staircase.


    Stella let out a hearty chuckle in response to his words as she brought her free hand to rest on her round belly. She was already a little over eight months pregnant now. Though there was still time in her due date, her hen-pecked husband refused to leave her side. He had been working from home for the last one month, refusing to leave her on her own.


    "Your forehead will be marred by wrinkles way before it should be." She shook her head in helplessness after seeing his worried expression.


    "All thanks to you." He stared back at her as he helped her in settling down on the couch.


    "I didn''t ask you to spend your days worrying about me when there are tons of things which can use some of your time." She breathed out as she picked up a file which was resting on the table and began to skim through it.


    "As if our study wasn''t enough for you, you had to turn our living room into one." She looked up at him briefly before shifting her gaze back to the file. "And don''t even try to snatch the file away." She added threateningly.


    She was becoming tired of how he had been treating her. She wasn''t allowed to leave her room without someone. It either had to be him, or two maids accompanying her to everywhere. Even if it was just a stroll in the garden.


    "You shouldn''t stress your mind, my love." He spoke up as he sat down next to her.


    "The only thing which stresses my mind is how you treat me." She spat back at him. "I am just pregnant, Adam. Stop treating me like I am made of glass." She was starting to feel enraged by his actions. She felt like she was living in a prison rather than her home. Her own husband had tricked her into staying at the ancestral mansion.


    She still remembered how he had used the excuse of their safety to make her stay here, only to extend their stay. She decided to turn a blind eye to it since he was being concerned for her comfort. But this was now getting out of hand.


    "You cannot expect me to stay in our room forever while you carry out meetings and video conferences in the living room." She continued. "You should be doing all of this from your office. Moreover, I should be the one doing this." She shut the file as she turned her attention to him. Waving the red file before his face, she gave him a questioning look.


    The file in her hand was about one of the ongoing projects under R&E Group of Companies. After taking over the office, the first thing Adam did was to remove the tag of being a subsidiary from the company''s name after making sure that it was stable enough to run on its own. Not only that, he transferred the ownership of the company to Stella as it was the right thing to do. It was after all her father''s business.


    "Are you forgetting that I am no longer your assistant?" She added while narrowing her eyes at him. "You cannot order me around like before."


    "I don''t intend to order you around, sweetheart. You were never just an assistant for me, love. Your man fell head over heels in love with you the moment you stepped inside my office." He took the file from her hand, and placed it back on top of some papers which were sprawled all over the glass table. He had a meeting with some executives from the company earlier, or else he wouldn''t have left her alone in their room.


    His hands reached up to her face as he continued. "But I have to question your sense of fashion." He muttered while he cupped her face. He was starting to grow fond of her filled cheeks. The pregnancy was definitely doing her good, adding bits and pieces of flash to her lean figure. If everything went well, she might retain some of it after giving birth to their twins.


    "What do you mean?" Stella narrowed her eyes at him. The urge of giving him a good punch was starting to resurface once again after hearing his remark. The hormones were driving her rationality away with time.


    "I mean who wears a crop top and skinny jeans to an interview." He raised an eyebrow at her while bringing her face closer. "That''s damn unprofessional. It''s a good thing that your Boss never cared about appearances much."


    "For your record, I did that deliberately." She spoke up in her defense. "My previous Boss was a jerk. I didn''t want the new one to be like him too. So, I dressed like I didn''t care about the job when I actually needed it." She pursed her lips in a pout.


    "That was a really dumb move, my love. You could have been kicked out of my office right away if I wasn in a bad mood." He reprimanded her softly.


    "I did realize it later on when I was in the waiting area. The way everyone was staring at me was enough for me to know how stupid of a move that was. But it was already too late to fix the problem." She heaved out a long sigh. Looking back at herself, she couldn''t help but throw curses at herself. Her own stupidity from back then was enough to not only ruin her career, but she might have also lost the chance of knowing the love of her life.


    "It''s fine. None of those things happened, and I still love you." He pressed a kiss against her forehead, allowing his lips to linger there for a couple of seconds. "And I will try not to act like a warden, sweetheart. It''s just that I worry too much about you especially now that you are so close to your due date." He added while grazing his thumbs over her cheeks.


    "What can happen to me here, you idiot? Stop worrying about me so much, you are only going to end up with wrinkles." She shook her head. "And I will try my best not to add anything else on your already filled plate." She added, tilting her head towards the table. "But you have to let me do things my way too. Just let me do my job from home and run things my way. After all, I am responsible for what goes on in there."


    She was referring to the R&E Group of Companies. As the current Ceo, it was her job to make sure that it was going down the right path. And she could always ask her dear husband for help if things became too hectic for her. But he had to at least give her a chance so that she could prove herself.


    "Alright, your highness. I will do as you say." He kissed her lips briefly as he gave into her demands. He could never bring himself to say no to his little elf and see her disheartened expressions.


    "I love you, my dear husband." She muttered under her breath before throwing her arms around his neck.


    "Careful!" He yelped in surprise as his arms wrapped around her lower waist on instinct to keep her from falling down. He could tell that the next two months were going to be really tough for him. "I love you too, my wifey. I love you too." He mumbled softly as he pressed a kiss on the side of her face. No matter how crazy she acted, his love for her would only increase. And the same went for her.

 Chapter 304: Epilogue (1)

    Five years later,


    "Where do you think you are running?" Stella yelled at the top of her lungs as she made her way across the corridor. To say that she was sprinting like a rabbit wouldn''t be wrong. Her eyes were fixed on the little figure clad in a baby pink frilly frock which reached only to her knees and was running before her. "Even your father cannot save you this time from my wrath."


    The little girl didn''t look any less than a living doll with the locks of her black wavy hair framing her small face which could easily be covered by a grown man''s palm. Her hair reached her shoulders only with a couple of fringes covering her forehead which only made her hazel eyes stand out more. Her porcelain skin was as flawless with a slight tinge of pink hugging her cheeks.


    A wave of giggles were heard which resonated throughout the empty hallway. The little figure made a turn to her right only to be followed by her mother who was breathing out fire. "Ella! Stop right there."


    Stella followed her daughter around the turn only to find the hallway empty. She let her eyes roam around the empty corridor, not leaving the stands which were standing proudly and supporting the huge vases resting on the. "You think that you can hide from me, Estrella Adam."


    She walked towards one of the ceramic stands with slow and steady steps as her eyes caught the baby pink frills peeking out from the side. "I see something pink." Stella muttered out, the corners of her lips curling up in a smile.


    Another wave of giggles were heard the moment Stella arrived next to the stand. She tilted her head to the side and looked at the figure of her daughter squeezed in between the wall and the pedestal. She was about to bend forward and pick her daughter up when the little devil ran away once again.


    Stella turned around just in time to see her climbing up in her husband''s arms.


    "Dadda." Estrella squealed in delight as her father picked her up. Even a blin person could tell how much she was pampered by her father. The smiles embracing the faces of the father and daughter duo was more than enough to give it away.


    "And what is this time that my wife and daughter are running around the house again?" Adam haved out a sigh as his eyes jumped from Stella to the little one in his arms. "Nevermind, I can tell." His words were followed by a chuckle as he wiped off his daughter''s mouth using the sleeves of his white shirt.


    Estrella''s entire face was covered in chocolate, especially the skin around her mouth. Her small palms were not clean either previously, but they looked better now that most of the chocolate was smeared over Adam''s shirt. But the man could care any less about his designer shirt. His eyes were glued to his daughter''s face which was brimming with joy.


    "WIll you please scold your little princess a little? She ate the batter I was preparing for the chocolate flavored cupcakes she has been craving for. I have to start from the scratch now." Stella pursed her lips in a pout as she complained to him.


    Despite having a bunch of maids and servants, she loved to cook for her family on weekends. Her daughter had been eating her ears away for the last two days, demanding her to bake her favorite cupcakes. Stella had asked the head cook to do so, but the spoiled princess of the family refused to eat the ones baked by him. She wanted to eat the ones made by Stella.


    Now that it was Saturday, Stella thought of making some for her. She insisted on helping her out on the process. Despite knowing that it would turn out to be a disaster, she couldn''t bring herself to say no to her puppy eyes. And just like she had predicted, her little devil ate the batter when she walked out of the kitchen to take a call.


    When she returned back to the kitchen, the entire counter was a mess with a maid standing next to it with her head bowed down. It didn''t take her long to realize which storm had hit the place as her eyes trailed to the empty kitchen stool where her daughter was supposed to be.


    "Let''s make it again." Adam patted the top of her daughter''s head before giving Stella a pleading look. "I will help you." He added to make his offer look more appealing.


    Stella heaved out a tired sigh before she nodded her head in a yes. Why was it only her who had to give in to everyone''s demands?


    "But you need to go and change your shirt first. I don''t want my maids to think that their Boss is tortured by the mother and daughter duo when it''s the other way around." She shook her head helplessly before covering the distance between them.


    Taking the little devil into her arms, Stella kissed her cheek. "Let''s get you cleaned too." She muttered as she squeezed her cheeks.


    "Where''s my kiss?" She was about to walk away when Adam spoke up in protest.


    "No kiss for my dear husband who''s so smitten by our daughter." She shook her head in a no and was about to continue with her steps when two arms found their way around her waist.


    "I don''t like hearing a no from my wife." He pursed his lips in a pout as he pulled her closer.


    "I will give Dadda a kiss." Estrella spoke up in her joyful tone before a loud smack was heard as her lips made contact with Adam''s cheek.


    "Thanks, Ella. But your Dadda wants a kiss from your Momma too." He shifted his attention back to the lady in his arms after kissing her daughter''s cheeks in return.


    "Momma should kiss Dadda." She bobbed her head up and down before covering her eyes with her palms. "You can kiss Dadda now. Ella is not seeing anything." She let out a couple of giggles.


    "See, even our daughter is saying that I should get a kiss." Adam leaned his face in. just when his lips were to land on Stella''s, a loud bang was heard before all the lights of the hallway went out. Though it barely took the back up generator to kick in and the lights flickered on.


    "Carlisle Adam! What are you upto now?"

 Chapter 305: Epilogue (2)

    "Carlisle Adam! What are you up to now?"


    Stella shouted on top of her lungs as she wiggled out of Adam''s hold. Her temper was about to hit the roof. After spending five days of a week stuck in board meetings, dealing with investors and sitting through boring meetings, all she wanted was a good, relaxing week with her family.


    But here she was, yelling through the corridors of her new home while looking like a mess. And her twins were to be blamed for this along with her husband who somehow tended to become a child as well during weekends.


    "It''s fine, my love. You should go and get Ella cleaned up, I will see what the brat is up to now." Adam tried to coerce her into doing something else because he knew if she was to find out what had gone wrong this time, his son would be doomed along with him.


    "I will get Ella cleaned up, but I need to have a chat with the brat first." She gave Estrella back to Adam as she turned his offer down. "And don''t you dare to step in this time." She added as she threw a threatening glare in Adam''s direction.


    They had just moved out of the ancestral mansion and shifted to a two-storey villa. Without her knowledge, Adam had been working on it for over a year to get it perfect to his children''s needs. It was fitted with the most advanced technology, turning the entire building into a smart home. Though he had to thank Stella as it was her penthouse which gave him the idea to do so.


    He hired the best architects of the country because there was no way he would have settled for anything less than the best for his family. Despite that he had assigned a lot of people to get the villa done as fast as they could, it still took them six months to finish it to his liking. All this while, he kept it hidden from Stella so that when the time came, he could surprise her. And that was what he did a week back.


    "But¡­" He trailed off when he saw his wife''s figure stomping away from him. She had turned a deaf ear to him and could care any less about his explanations in favor of their son.


    "Should we follow her?" He turned his attention to the little bundle of delight in his arms and questioned her.


    "We should save Big B from Momma''s anger." Estrella bobbed her head up and down repeatedly.


    "Let''s go and rescue your brother then." Adam mumbled under his breath before heading to the direction of his son''s room.


    -------


    "Carlisle Adam! What have you done this time?" Stella gritted through her teeth as soon as she walked in the room.


    The entire room was painted with different shades of blue which would go well together for a boy''s room. The wall behind the headboard of the bed had a large frobot painted over it as her son was obsessed with them.


    "Oh! Hey, Mom." A head full of dark brown hair popped up from the other side of the bed and greeted her. "You have some chocolate smeared over your right cheek." He pointed a finger towards her face before disappearing from her sight once again.


    Hearing his words, Stella frowned and wiped her right cheek with the back of her palm. Seeing the little amount of chocolate on the back of her palm, she shook her head.


    "Thank you. But may I know what you have done this time?" Her tone was much softer than before, but she was still angry at him. It was the second time in a week that such an incident had taken place.


    "I was trying to fix my dog, Mom." Carlisle answered her as he popped his head out once again.


    "What happened to your dog? And can you please come out so that we could have a proper chat?" She made her way to the bed and settled down as she waited for her son''s reply.


    "Sure." He replied to her briefly before coming out of the other side. He made his way around the bed with a metallic box in his hands. He put it down on the wooden floor before Stella''s feet and looked up at her with a frown marring his little forehead.


    "I cannot fix, Charlie." He pursed his lips together as his black orbs stared back into her hazel ones.


    The gray metal box which Carlisle was referring to as Charlie had four feet popping out from its base with a rather oval shaped face attached to its front end which had two small bulb-like eyes. A spring like tail was attached to its rear end which had a small ball fixed on the pointy end.


    "You are not supposed to fix, Charlie. Your Dad would have gotten it fixed for you." Stella shook her head helplessly. She didn''t know what else to say to him. Just because Carlisle was so obsessed with robots, Adam had brought him the robotic dog for his last birthday. And the child was too attached to it.


    "But I wanted to do it myself." He spoke up meekly.


    "You made the fuse of the entire villa go off. Now they have to get it fixed again. What''s more troubling than that is you could have gotten hurt." She continued to scold him, but kept her tone in check. She would never want to come off as rude to her children even though she was strict with them.


    "Why are you so quiet?" She questioned the little man who resembled his father in so many ways.


    Carlisle continued to stay before her mother with his head bowed down. His eyes were fixed on the broken dog.


    "Do you realize how your stunts like this affect me? The first thing which came to my mind was you might have hurt in the process of whatever you were doing." She continued.


    "But he didn''t get hurt, my love." The door to the room flew open and Adam walked inside. He was still holding Esretlla in his arms.


    "He could have, Adam." Stella spat back at him.


    "But he is not. It''s fine. I will get the dog fixed for him." Just so his son could have his childhood with his favorite kind of toys, Adam had built a new subsidiary under Levinson''s Crop. which deals in robotics. But their products were not for sale. They barely took any projects in and most of them were for the family''s use.


    "Will you stop taking their sides? They are just kids, Adam. If they do something wrong then it''s our job to teach them better. Stop spoiling them so much." She muttered out helplessly.


    "It''s fine. They are just kids." Adam walked towards the bed, his steps coming to a stop right before her. "They''ll be fine." He patted the top of her head lovingly but it only added to her ire.


    "Why do I have to be the strict one in between us?" Though she was still angry, her voice didn''t give it away. "Because you want to be so easy on them. It was fine before, but now they are a little grown up. You can''t always be okay with what they do." She muttered out before getting up. "But do as you please." She added the latter part with a frown and stormed out of the room, leaving the other three figures at a loss.

 Chapter 306: Epilogue (3)

    Adam continued to stare at the shut door even after Stella was long gone. He turned his attention to his little angel who was staring, more specifically glaring, at him. He cast his eyes down to have a look at his son only to find him staring back at him with an annoyed expression tugging at his facial muscles.


    "What?" He asked no one in particular as his eyes jumped from his son to his daughter, and then back to the little version of him.


    Carlisle shook his head helplessly before he made a leap for the bed. After making sure that he was sitting comfortably on it, he decided to address his father. "You are doomed, Dad." He added while folding his hands across his chest. The grave expressions on his face only added to the seriousness which was lingering in the air. He looked like he was there to make a deal, and would only have it his way.


    "Why do you always make Mom angry like this? It''s our job. You should be nice to her." Drawing his delicate eyebrows together, he added.


    "Put me down." Estrella patte his shoulder and spoke up in a demanding tone before he could say anything in response to his son''s remarks. Not given any choice, Adam put down her on the floor carefully, making sure that her feet were resting on the ground firmly. With her small feet, she walked towards the bed and joined his brother.


    "Big B is right, Dadda. You always make her sad and angry. You should love her like you love me." She pursed her lips in a pout and bobbed her head up and down like a broken doll.


    Carlisle was born five minutes before his twin sister, so Estrella used to refer to him as big brother or ''Big B''.


    "Go and make her smile." The little girl narrowed her eyes and instructed her father. "If she doesn''t smile, then kiss her like you were going to kiss her in the hallway. I am sure she will smile after a kiss."


    "Don''t listen to her, just do what you think is right. I will ask Nanna to come up and help Ella in cleaning up. Just don''t come to lunch without Mom." With these words, Carlisle jumped down from the bed and took his sister''s hand and helped her in getting down. "Let''s get you to your room, Ella." He added to get a couple of nods from the little girl. "And don''t forget to get Charlie fixed." He mumbled softly before heading out of the room with his twin.


    Adam heaved out a long sigh after his twins were out of the room. After listening to the two of them, it didn''t take him long to realize that he had messed up bad. Since their children had grown up, it was almost always Stella who was doing the ''bad cop'' job while he was sitting back and enjoying the ''good cop'' role. If his children weren''t this smart, they would have for sure called Stella as a strict Mom. It was a good thing that no matter what, they used to take her side. Maybe because she spent much more time with them than him. Or maybe they could see how much effort she put in everything for them.


    "Damn you, Adam Levinson." He cursed himself under his breath before storming out of the room as well. But instead of walking towards the other wing of the villa where their room was located, he walked down the stairs to the ground floor and made his way out. He knew just the place where he might find her.


    Adam walked out of the main entrance and headed towards the right side of the building. The area was supposed to be empty but Adam had them converted the space into an extension of the front garden. A small fountain was placed close to the hedge while a wooden swing was placed next to the side wall of the villa which had green creepers running all over it.


    His eyes moved to her figure as she sat on the swing with an annoyed expression marring her face. Adam could tell that she was still angry at him, and that he was walking in the lion''s den. But it was his job to make things right by her.


    "Hey!" He muttered out softly as he settled down next to her on the swing.


    "What are you doing out here? Shouldn''t you be with your little ones?" She scoffed.


    "I needed to make sure that my wife was doing okay after our little argument. They''ll be fine with their Nanna." He replied to her as he draped his arm over her shoulder and pulled her closer.


    "You''ll always be my favourite one. You are after all what makes my life bright. You are my sunshine." He pressed his lips to the side of her head, wrapping his other arm around her waist.


    Stella could already feel her anger dissipating into thin air as his arms provided her the warmth she had been craving for.


    "If my children meant more to me than you, my love, I would want more of them. But I can''t make you go throw all that pain once again." He muttered next to her ear. There was no way he was going to put her through all of that again. He still remembered the day vividly, how her screams filled his ears when the doctor''s were checking up on her.


    "You are the love of my life, Stella Adam. I love our twins this much because they are a part of you, my love. The only regret I have in life is that I didn''t give you a proper wedding." He added to get a frustrated sigh in return.


    "How many times do I have to tell you that I don''t want a wedding?" She turned to face him. "We got married the day you gave me this ring." She showed him the oval diamond ring resting neatly on her ring finger. "We already have two annoying but beautiful children. I don''t want to show off to the world how rich my husband is when I have such a beautiful family already."


    "I want to kiss you everytime you say things like this, wifey." Adam chuckled lightly. Despite his several attempts to get her to say yes to holding a wedding ceremony, he didn''t one.


    "I promise I''ll be a little strict with them from onwards." He added as he gave Stella a pleading look to turn a blind eye to it one more time.


    "Okay! What about the preps for tomorrow?" She questioned him before leaning her head on his shoulder.


    "Everything will be ready before our guests arrive." He answered her to get a low hum in response. "Stella?" He called her softly to feel the weight from lifting off his shoulder.


    "What is it?" She looked up at him with a quizzical gaze.


    "I love you." He spoke up, gazing down into her hazel orbs. Before Stella could come out of her daze at his sudden profession, his lips crashed on her, stealing her breath.

 Chapter 307: Epilogue (4)

    Next day,


    "Adam?" Stella called out as she made her way out of the bathroom. She had just taken a shower and now was looking for the dress which she needed to wear for the day. It was a housewarming party, more specifically a feast. She didn''t want to be late to her own party and be a bad host to her guests. Only those who were their family were invited. The couple didn''t want the media to get their hands on the address. They wanted to keep their safe haven clean and out of the news.


    But the man who took the responsibility of arranging her dress was nowhere to be found. She had a rough idea that he might be downstairs looking after the preparations. There was no way she could go down in a bathrobe. Thinking that it would be better to just call him, she reached out for her phone with the hope that he had his phone on him. She was about to hit the dial button when there was a knock on the door of the room.


    "Coming." She made her way to the door. She knew that it was one of the maids because no maleservant was allowed to come to their unless Adam himself was there.


    "Ma''am, Sir sent this for you." A girl who seemed to be in her early twenties spoke up as she passed her a balck dress bag to her. "And he said that he still needs to make sure that everything is going smoothly so he''ll just meet you downstairs." the girl gave Stella a polite smile.


    "Is he already ready for the party?" Stella questioned the maid when she heard the message she had conveyed.


    "Yes, Ma''am." The maid answered briefly.


    "Alright, thank you." Stella muttered out before making her way back to the bed. Placing down the dress, she decided to look at the note which was stuck on the front first.


    ''You don''t say yes to the wedding, but I still want to see you in a white dress.


    Love,


    -A.''


    The words left her utterly confused. It wasn''t until she unzipped the black dress bag and peeped inside, did she get what he meant by it.


    -------


    "How''s my man doing?" It was Wilson whose voice was reverberating through the quiet hall. He made his way across the room and hugged Adam, taking him by surprise. "It''s good to see you after such a long time, man." He patted his back. "Where are my niece and nephew?" His busy routine at the hospital barely left him with any free time. Moreover, his man took whatever the free time he had on his hands.


    "Thanks for the invite." Blythe spoke up who was trailing Wilson. He was wearing a paersian blue suit which contrasted well with Wilson''s ash gray one. The golden brooches pinned on the left lapels of their coat, showed that they were from a couple''s collection.


    Adam gave him a firm nod as recognition. "You are his family, which makes you our family too." Adam gave him a friendly smile. "You two are just in time. Katherine and Scott are at the pool. My two little devils are with them."


    "Aren''t you coming with us?" Wilson questioned him as he came to a stop next to his other half. The two of them had already been married for a little over two years. Blythe was still one of the potential partners of R&E Group of Companies along with being a part of their family.


    "I''ll wait for my wife. You guys go and join them." Adam shook his head as he motioned a servant to guide them to the poolside.


    He wanted to arrange an indoor lunch, but his dear wife''s wishes didn''t let him do so. As it was the beginning spring, the breeze was good and it wasn''t too hot either. With those thoughts, she wanted him to get it arranged by the pool. Being the henpecked husband which he was, there was no way he wouldn''t do what his wife had demanded.


    A couple of clicks resonated through the quiet hall which made him turn his attention to the staircase. His heart skipped a beat the moment his eyes landed on the figure of his woman as she descended down the stairs. To say that she looked no less than an angel in that white gown, wouldn''t be wrong.


    Even after the birth of the twins, her figure was no less than a model''s. In fact, all the hormonal changes only added to her beauty as her bosom was now more full. Moreover, she didn''t just stick around to office work, she had started gyming regularly with Adam. Whatever fats she did put on during her pregnancy, was now replaced by toned muscles.


    "Y-you look beautiful." Coming out of his stupor, Adam complimented her as his feet made their way to the bottom of the staircase. His eyes trailed off to her dress and he couldn''t stop his lips from curling up in a smile.


    The sleeveless plain white frock reached her lower thighs, stopping two or three inches above her knees. There were two slits on either side of her waist from where her milky smooth skin was peeking out. The boat shaped neck covered her clavicles, hiding them from anyone''s prying eyes.


    Her hair had grown back to their previous length, reaching a little above her waist. They were tied up in a low pony with a couple of loose tendrils framing her face. A faint rosy blush hugged her cheeks as her toffee pink lips were curled up in a smile.


    "I am more than happy that I chose this dress." Adam spoke up as he extended his hand forward.


    "Why is that?" Stella muttered out as she descended down the last couple of steps and accepted his hand.


    "Because you do justice to it. It did look good in the pictures, but it looks so much better on you." He gently kissed the back of her hand.


    "Your tongue is surely getting better and better. Let''s not keep our guests waiting." She shook her head helplessly.


    "Sure." Wrapping his arm around her waist, he guided her out of the hall.

 Chapter 308: Epilogue (5)

    A large table which could easily fit twenty people was set next to the ovoid pool. The number of chairs around the large table were limited and widely spaced. The pale golden fabric which covered the wooden surface was folded into pleats around the four corners to show off the carved legs. Along the entire length of the table, crystal vases were set at intervals each of which was supporting a bouquet of bright-colored flowers. Before each chair, a set of cutlery was set with a pale golden napkin resting in the center.


    "There''s the lady of the house." It was Katherine who spoke up in a joyful tone as her eyes trailed to the open glass doors. "Me and Scotty were waiting for you." She added before tilting her head in the direction of the man who was busy talking to the twins. Both Katherine and Scott were wearing matching outfits which were the deepest shade of blue.


    "You two are looking good together." She nodded her head in approval when she realized how well Stella''s white dress went with Adam''s black suit. "Scott, behave.'' She didn''t forget to reprimand the man who was still busy chatting with the two devils instead of greeting the hosts properly.


    "It''s fine. Let him enjoy himself. I''ll make him pay later on." Stella let out a hearty chuckle in response. If her brother like friend was enjoying his time with her children, she had no problem with it even if it was at the cost of getting ignored.


    "Where are the others?" Katherine made her way towards them and questioned. Blythe and Wilson had just joined them but the lovebirds had disappeared into thin air after greeting him and Scott, and were nowhere in their line of sight.


    "Blake and Lilly are on their way and are the others I assume." Adam replied to her before making his way to the table.


    "The rest of the guests are here." A servant cleared his throat and announced as he walked out of the villa.


    His voice was crisp enough for others to catch on. Everyone''s attention including the twin''s, turned towards the glass doors which opened to the poolside.


    A couple walked out first and made their way directly to Adam and Stella just to greet them properly. "This sure is a fancy lunch." Joe spoke up as he shook Adam''s hand, only to get a glare from the woman who was standing next to him.


    "If I wasn''t holding our baby, I would have smacked you." Rachel spoke up in an enraged tone. It didn''t take the two of them long to get along well after their encounter at the bus stop a couple of years ago. None of them thought that they would come to love the other and end up spending the rest of their lives together. Though Liam was against their marriage at first, he came around after his granddaughter was born. At the same time, it didn''t take him longer to see that the man actually loved his daughter and that she was a completely changed being.


    "Thank you for coming." Stella nodded her head and gave them a bright smile before reaching out to pat the toddler in Rachel''s arms. "She''s growing up so fast." She added before turning her attention to the others.


    Liam walked out with a gruff look on his face. Without paying any attention to others, he made his way straight to his god daughter. Two other figures were trailing behind him, one was clad in a black suit which resembled Adam''s while the other was black in a matching dress which reached down to her ankles.


    "I''m glad that you guys can make it." Stella muttered out as she made her way towards them.


    Reaching Liam, she hugged him first and then made her way to the couple she had been dying to meet. It had been over a year since she last saw the two of them.


    "There was no way that I was going to miss out on a feast." Lillian spoke up before hugging her from the side while Blake took the opportunity to engulf the two ladies in a bear hug from behind.


    "I''m the one who came for you and my god-children. She''s just here for the free food." He spoke up loudly. Tightening his hold around the ladies, he gave them a squeeze before making his way towards his best friend who was busy talking to Liam now. The twins were quietly listening to whatever Liam was telling them.


    "How are things going back there for you?" Stella questioned Lillian after turning her volume down a notch.


    "Things have been crazy. It''s like I deal with one problem and then another one arises. It''s a good thing that Blake accompanied me back there. Not only does he help me, his presence alone gives me strength to deal with the rest of the crap." Lillian mumbled out a reply. Her eyes shifted to Rachel''s figure who was busy taking care of her daughter while her husband helped her. "I still don''t like her though." She added only to get a chuckle in response.


    "You two should also get married. Even that Wilson and Blythe are married. Katherine is waiting to get an approval from Scotty''s family, not that he cares, but she wants to have their blessings. That leaves the two of you." Stella continued as she began to guide her towards the table, only to get a low hum in response.


    "Nanna will take care of our little angel, you can just enjoy yourself." Stella spoek up in a polite tone before she motioned one of the maids, who was standing in the far corner, to come and take the baby. Nanna was actually Estrella and Carlisle''s nanny and the two of them were used to call her Nanna. It didn''t take long for Adam and Stella to get used to the title as she was in her late thirties.


    After passing the baby to the maid, Stella made her way to the head of the table where Adam was standing with their twins. As she joined them, the rest of the people settled down on their assigned seats. Wilson and Blythe, who had disappeared earlier were now back and settled down in their own seats after greeting the others. From their disheveled states, it wasn''t hard to tell what the two of them were upto.


    Adam cleared his throat to get everyone''s attention after his beloved wife had joined him. "Thank you everyone for gracing us with your presence. Every single one of you has helped us more than I could count, and for that I am thankful. Thank you for all you have done for me and my family. I hope you enjoy today''s feast and have a good time."


    The moment his words ended, a couple of uniformed servants walked out with piping hot dishes in their hands, along with the most expensive wines.


    "Shall we, my lady?" Adma pulled out a chair for her and questioned her to get a nod in response. After helping his wife, he turned his attention to his twins, and helped them settle in their chairs before getting to his own seat.


    ***