《You’re Still My Man – English》


 Chapter 1

    ACE


    He entered the Mexican Restaurant where he workste. He immediately took a small box from his pocket which was also the reason why he waste.


    He carefully opened the contents of the small box he had given as a gift to the beautiful woman who was celebrating her twenty-fourth birthday today. But the real purpose of this gift could very well save her life, the fact is that he can¡¯t tell her.


    He left cold America for his special mission here in the Philippines as he entered another door to a different world.


    He has also been working at the said restaurant for a year. He also has the opportunity to experience a few problems in his work, but all of that is easy for him to handle and even so until now.


    He immediately went to the counter to find out if they had a reservation tonight. At first nce he thought there was nothing, but when he looked at it again, there was. It¡¯s reserved for a single name and it¡¯s none other than Brando Nics. The man who lives in darkness and in the secret world.


    He clenched his fist knowing that it was Brando Nics who reserved it. He took the small box from his pocket again and went to the kitchen while he was thinking of a reason for beingte. He stopped outside the door and listened intently to the silence in the kitchen. Either his noisy colleagues just meant to keep quiet or he really arrived toote.


    All the reasons he could think of suddenly flew through his mind when he opened the door. He found out that there was no one inside except Gina. She faces a stainless-steel barrier that divides their working station from the cooking area, where their chef will cook the foods they serve at dinner. He just looked at Gina from behind her and didn¡¯t know what her emotions were now whether it was angry, irritated or whatever she was feeling on that time.


    He could hear Gina scolding herself, but why was that? Did she do something wrong?


    He wanted to think that Gina was going crazy because she was talking to herself, but it wasn¡¯t fair if he thought she was like that, maybe she was just hiding her resentment.


    He quietly walked over to Gina¡¯s direction to apologize for beingte for her birthday party.


    GINA


    She set aside the gifts she received from her colleagues. It was her 24th birthday and everyone knew it was important to her. The rest of their colleagues came early just to celebrate with her, even their manager, except for the one person he was waiting for the most.


    ¡°That¡¯s what you got Gina to wait for nothing, but I hope he just said he was sick so I wouldn¡¯t have to wait.¡± said Gina as she was still talking to herself.


    ¡°Happy Birthday, Gina!¡± Ace suddenly greeted, which surprised her.


    Gina¡¯s face lit up as she turned to see Ace, breathing heavily.


    Ace Roderick Durant III. Tall, gorgeous and oh so handsome as what she describes to him. A six-footer man, has dark brown hair, charming eyes, and a killer smile if he was just smiling all the time, and of course his body is already a dish.


    OMG! Adonis seems to havee down from space, it takes her breath away when she sees the handsome face in front of her. What Ace didn¡¯t know was that marrying him was Gina¡¯s birthday wish when she blew out her birthday candles.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Gina just swallowed by what she saw, and her anger was reced by joy.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry because I missed your party.¡± Ace apologized as he walked towards her.


    ¡°No one checked the attendance.¡± She said and continued arranging her gifts.


    She couldn¡¯t stare at Ace for a long time because she might melt. It¡¯s better for her to just avoid looking at him than to be tensed when she faces Ace. After all, it¡¯s been a long time since they¡¯ve been together at work, it¡¯s only been a year, but until now Ace still has the same effect on her.


    ¡°Looks like you need someone to carry your presents.¡± Ace said and took the knife to slice the cake that was on the table.


    ¡°Is this a gift for you, too?¡± he said, specifically to the cake he was slicing and he immediately tasted it. ¡°Mmm¡­ it¡¯s delicious.¡±


    ACE


    He frowned when he saw one of Gina¡¯s gifts, a wedding photo album that emphasized the word ¡®WEDDING ALBUM¡¯.


    ¡°That¡¯s also a gift for you?¡± he asked curiously on the album. ¡°I thought it was just a birthday party, a bridal shower too.¡±


    Gina took the album and hugged it.


    ¡°It¡¯s nice to put wedding pictures on this album.¡±


    ¡°As far as I know, you don¡¯t have a boyfriend, so it¡¯s impossible for you to get married or maybe you wanted someone to marry you? Because they said you don¡¯t want to be an old maid like your cousins.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business, if I really wanted to. Of course one of my goals is to get married.¡± She raised an eyebrow at him. ¡°Besides, I¡¯m busy at school and work so I might not be able to meet my prince charming.¡±


    Ace didn¡¯t answer and just helped Gina put away the cluttered gift wrappers. He stopped suddenly when he touched a scattered wrappers.


    ¡°I think you have another gift you haven¡¯t seen.¡±


    ¡°Which is?¡±


    ¡°This, the traditional something blue.¡± Ace showed her the blue carton of condoms.


    ¡°Who gave me that?¡± Gina asked.


    ¡°You keep it, it can also be used.¡± He just smiled at Gina. ¡°By the way, I also have a gift for you.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Gina asked and she looked happy when she heard he had a gift for her.


    Honestly, Ace doesn¡¯t like women flirting, he made it clear to her and his other female co-workers who also show him liking.


    ¡°But I¡¯ll just give you my present when we get home.¡± he said. ¡°I want to give it to you in private. If possible I¡¯ll give it to you in your boarding house?¡±


    GINA


    She looked around and made sure that no one was there. Because their colleagues went home to get dressed since her birthday party ended early and the restaurant where they work will open for dinner.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you just give me your gift now? We¡¯re the only two here.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really funny, Gina.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s so funny about that honey pie?¡± she called Ace that again because that¡¯s what he didn¡¯t want to call her.


    ¡°Just don¡¯t call me honey pie, okay? I¡¯m not used to it. Come on, let¡¯s just have a drink.¡±


    She handed him a champagne ss which Ace had poured a wine, but he suddenly let go of the ss. It¡¯s a good thing it didn¡¯t break.


    Ace immediately took a tissue and knelt down to wipe Gina¡¯s wet shoes. But she stopped him.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to give me your gift now, then don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t get upset Gina, I¡¯ll give you this gift.¡±


    In fact, she was annoyed with Ace for being so numb. He didn¡¯t even notice how eager she was for the gift he would give.


    ¡°Okay, just came to my house.¡±


    ¡°You might think I¡¯m proud of this gift to you because I¡¯m still suspenseful.¡±


    ¡°You know Ace, we¡¯ll just really fight when you give it to meter because I really can¡¯t wait.¡±


    ¡°And what are we fighting over, Gina?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to tickle and tickle you until you give up.¡±


    Ace just smiled back at her.


    ¡°You know, I¡¯m intrigued by your gift, but if you don¡¯t want to give it to me now, it¡¯s fine whatever.¡± she said to Ace and she came out of the kitchen.


    ACE


    He followed Gina¡¯s gaze until she came out. Gina called him sometimes by his second name which she is the only one who knows it because he is a very secretive person, even to his real name. Like him, he is the only one who call her sometimes Georgina which is her real name.


    He also went out of the kitchen to arrange the dining tables in his working area, and their chef cooked just in time.


    He is going to his ce in the exclusive club house where he is the head waiter. The thirty-year-old private club offered peace and privacy that was usually reserved there by those prominent people.


    He first goes through the beautifully furnished dining room and he sees Gina there lighting candles on the dining tables as she sings. Her white shirt and ck skirt really fit hers because her body looks more shaped.


    He went upstairs to check the billiard rooms and lounge on the second floor, which has usually be his routine.


    After he checked the second floor, he immediately went downstairs to look at the reservation list again at the counter. His eyes were now focused on the single name written there. Brando Nics. How could such a simple name impact so many lives?


    *****

 Chapter 2

    GINA


    In the five years she has been working at the restaurant, she can say that she really memorized her activities every night, and it¡¯s good that way because her mind is not working on anything right now. Because her mind was upied with the thought of Ace going to her house tonight. She fantasizes about it again. But she doesn¡¯t think that what she has in mind will happen because she knows that they don¡¯t really get along with Ace. Unless the wind blows differently and she tames the lion.


    Suddenly, everything she thought about Ace was erased from her mind when she saw the iing customer at the restaurant. He was an attractive man in histe thirties. She greeted him with a very sweet smile and guided him until he sat at his reserved table.


    It was also a few minutes ago after the said customer ate. She immediately approached him and asked.


    ¡°How about your favorite dessert, sir Brando? Chocte cheesecake and espresso.¡±


    Gina noticed that hispanion wasn¡¯t even eating, his job apparently only to take notes. She wonders how a demanding person can still employ an employee at this time of night.


    ¡°Ahh, thank you, Gina. Did I get thest slice?¡±


    ¡°Yes sir, I saved it just for you. I know that¡¯s the only dessert you like.¡±


    ¡°Well then, at least you still remember.¡±


    ¡°Of course, sir.¡±


    ¡°What do you have for dessert?¡± Brando asked her.


    ¡°Peach mango pie, sir.¡± She replied awkwardly.


    As usual, Brando paid a check for what he ate, and even before he left, Brando held her hand.


    ¡°Ah, by the way Gina, I¡¯d like to reserve a VIP room tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Okay sir, I¡¯ll tell Ace.¡± she said and turned her back on him.


    Brando Nics. She can tell that he¡¯s perfect. He has dark brown hair and handsome. His eyes are expressive, his nose is piercing, his cheekbones are sharp and he looks macho. Obviously, he was a wealthy businessman if the basis is his attire. All in all, he was an elegant man. But not her type.


    Everything she thought about Brando just stopped when she saw Ace blocking the kitchen door.


    ¡°Hey, why are you staring at me so badly?¡± she asked Ace because she saw his irritated face.


    ¡°What if I stare at you?¡±


    Gina just sighed. In fact, she was secretly happy when Ace acted like her possessive boyfriend.


    She noticed that he was so handsome and elegant wearing his uniform again. He looked so gorgeous in his tuxedo uniform.


    ¡°Mr. Nics will reserve a VIP room tomorrow.¡± she told Ace.


    Ace looked at Brando in his seat and Brando also looked at them, but Ace just turned his back on him with his forehead furrowed. He had never seen Ace treated other guests like that except Brando. Ace nod to her earlier when she said that Brando would reserve a room, his reaction was really weird. He just went to the other table.


    ¡°Hi Maryam, how¡¯s your meal?¡± she asked a customer as she put away what she had eaten.


    Maryam Velez. The president of Maryam¡¯s intimate lingerie, she¡¯s in herte forties but she looks younger than her age. She also enters the restaurantte to eat. She noticed that someone was with her again, where could her first driver-bodyguard be? usually because they eat together.


    ¡°Dinner is perfect my dear, as usual. What do you think of Jeremy?¡± Maryam asked, referring to her new driver-bodyguard.


    ¡°Stunning.¡± She replied to Maryam.


    Maryamughed so hard that Brando turned to them. Brando stared at Maryam and Maryam raised her champagne ss as if she toast with Brando. Her eyes seemed to be teasing Gina and Brando. Maybe Maryam thought that she had a crush on Brandon.


    ¡°Stunning huh?¡± Maryam said referring to Jeremy as she wiped her mouth with the table napkin.


    She handed her a very nicely wrapped package, she didn¡¯t think that the gift she had seen earlier on Maryam¡¯s table was for her.


    ¡°Happy birthday, my dear. I designed this just for you and promised me that you¡¯ll wear this if you sleep with him.¡±


    Him? Who is she referring to? She hoped it was Ace instead of Brando.


    ¡°Who are you referring to, Maryam?¡±


    ¡°The same man you have in mind, I guess.¡±


    Before Gina could answer, Ace appeared in front of her and assisted Maryam.


    ¡°Thank You, Mr. Durant.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee, Ms. Velez.¡±


    Gina wonders at the closeness shown by Ace and Maryam. She knows that Maryam likes those who are younger than her for about twenty years because she is 48 years old but all she dated is half of her age. And Ace is twenty-eight years old, just right for Maryam¡¯s taste. Do they have a hidden rtionship? Because the way they stare at each other, it seems that their eyes are talking.


    ¡°May I escort you to the door?¡± Ace said to Maryam.


    ¡°In a minute. I need to speak Gina first.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for the birthday gift, Maryam.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee my dear, how¡¯s the designing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not yet ready for the sample but it¡¯s very romantic.¡±


    ¡°Romantic. Well, there is a first time for everything. My buyers will be shocked.¡± Maryam winked at her and she went to the table where Brando had seated and she whispered to his ear.


    ¡°Do you work for Maryam, too?¡± Ace asked her.


    ¡°Uhmm.. I just came up with an idea for her new product line. What were they talking about?¡±


    ¡°Do you want us to ask them what they talked about?¡± Ace said sarcastically. ¡°You? What did you and Brando talk about before?¡±


    Hmmm.. it looks as if Ace is jealous. How intriguing.


    ¡°You know it¡¯s too heavy to carry a tes.¡±


    ACE


    He just followed Gina¡¯s gaze until she entered the kitchen. Then he saw Maryam approaching him, her hips swayed gracefully and he just escorted her outside as usual.


    ¡°Thanks again for the other night.¡± Maryam said, her voice is husky and full of emotion.


    ¡°My pleasure.¡± He replied.


    ¡°Thanks, Ace. Thank you so much for saving my life. I won¡¯t forget it.¡±


    ¡°Just at the right time and the right ce. Don¡¯t go to that kind of bar again, Maryam. Trouble¡¯s the only thing you¡¯re going to find.¡±


    ¡°And you, why did you go to that bar? You know, sometimes I just need to be where no one knows or cares who I am.¡±


    He could feel the sadness in Maryam¡¯s voice. He too, lived a lonely life, although for very different reasons. He suffered loneliness because that means safety for those he cared about.


    ¡°Do you have other appointment after you were out here at the restaurant?¡± Maryam asked him.


    He smiled at her ¡°It depends.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure I can¡¯t repay you with a little more than thanks?¡±


    ¡°Maryam, you know we are not allowed to have a personal business with the guests.¡±


    Maryam smiled at him. ¡°You don¡¯t break rules, I suppose.¡±


    ¡°Anything you can order from me as long as it¡¯s not personal.¡±


    ¡°Interesting answer.¡±


    ¡°Maryam, there are many other guys you will meet out there who are willing to end your loneliness.¡±


    ¡°I think I heard you said that before.¡± And she got into her car. ¡°Good night, Ace.¡±


    He was about to go to the kitchen when he saw Brando put something in Gina¡¯s pocket. So he immediately approached them.


    ¡°Thank you foring to us tonight, sir.¡± He suddenly said which surprised the two.


    He could see in Brando¡¯s eyes the irritation of his sudden rebuke. It¡¯s very obvious that Brandon likes Gina. Of course, she is beautiful and seductive.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see you tomorrow night.¡± Brando said to Gina.


    ¡°Good night, sir.¡± Gina said.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it, just go to the locker and get dressed.¡± He said after Brando has left.


    GINA


    She was really surprised by what Ace was doing now. Just like wiping the table which is not his job.


    ¡°Jeez, the head waiter is wiping the table now?¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯re tired. Although you¡¯re twenty-four. Your stamina is weak.¡±


    She doesn¡¯t want to be affected by what Ace says to her. Instead, she looked around and made sure that all her colleagues were already in the kitchen or in their lockers before she answered. ¡°So when I finish my work here. Even if I jog in going home, I still have the energy to have sex if you want. ¡±


    She no longer cared about what she said to Ace. She¡¯s really upset with him.


    ¡°What did Brando put in your pocket?¡± Ace asked her.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Did Brando give you money?¡±


    She¡¯s loading¡­ though.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Brando did give me money as a tip.¡± She replied and turned her back on Ace.


    ¡°How much tip did he give you?¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business.¡±


    Ace suddenly took the money in her pocket to her surprise. The tes she was carrying almost fell and it was good that only those spoons and forks fell. It was as if her whole body was electrified by what Ace had done. She also couldn¡¯t understand what Ace was doing now.


    ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing, huh?¡±


    Ace didn¡¯t even pay attention to her and instead counted the tip she received from Brando.


    ¡°Ten thousand pesos, how do you call it Georgina, just a tip?¡±


    Her eyes widened when she realized that the tip that Brando had given her today was big. Every time Brando eats at the restaurant, she is always given a tip before he leaves. But she just wondered why the tip she received from Brando was so big today. She just swallowed. ¡°Maybe because he likes my service so he gave me a big tip.¡±


    In the middle of the currency bill was a white calling card attached. Ace brought it to her face to make her read the name written there. She knew that the calling card came from Brandon, of course he gave it to her together with the tip.


    ¡°What are you talking about honey pie? I¡¯m not a fool not to know what that is.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me honey pie again, it doesn¡¯t sound good. Listen, Gina, you¡¯ll return this money that Brando gave you, tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Do you hear what you¡¯re saying? Who do you think you are? Don¡¯t act as a macho man because it¡¯s boring, and you don¡¯t have the right to tell me what to do.¡± She was going to take the money back from Ace but he was still hesitant on giving it back to her.


    ¡°Give this money back to him, Gina!¡±


    She could see in Ace eyes his anger. But she didn¡¯t care what he thought of her. She was surprised when Ace put the money in her breast pocket. She was electrified for the second time.


    ¡°You¡¯re harassing me!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Ace apologized to her.


    She didn¡¯t answer and just turned her back on Ace.


    ACE


    He was disappointed when he thought of Brando Nics again. He needs to get Gina away from Brando before anything happens.


    He didn¡¯t even changed his uniform, he just waited for Gina in the parking lot.


    Finally, Gina came out of the restaurant with her gifts. He helped her immediately.


    ¡°Gina, I¡¯m sorry again earlier. Let¡¯s just meet at your boarding house.¡± he said.


    ¡°Do you know where my boarding house is?¡±


    ¡°Of course not, we¡¯ve been together at work, but still I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Anyway, I¡¯ll be right ahead of you.¡±


    Gina got into her old car. As she drove off, he started his engine and put the car in gear, he just noticed a ck toyota altis that was tailing Gina when she left, because he had seen the vehicle parked earlier in the distance.


    He learned to trust his instincts so he immediately followed her. He was right in his suspicion that Gina was really the one that the ck car was following because it also stopped when Gina arrived at her boarding house.


    Until the car ran again and he still followed it until they came to a penthouse owned by Brando Nics.


    He immediately took his cellphone and called someone.


    ¡°Sir, good evening. I¡¯m sorry to wake you up.¡±


    ¡°No problem. What¡¯s up?¡± said the one on the other line.


    ¡°Sir, he wants to deal with me tomorrow night.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll cover you.¡±


    ¡°Okay sir. See you.¡±


    ¡°Wait a second, Ace. Did you give it to her?¡±


    ¡°Not yet, sir.¡±


    ¡°Just give it to her okay, so that you can rx after.¡±


    ¡°Ok sir, maybe when this is over.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 3

    GINA


    Earlier she was focused on the clock and hoped that Ace woulde to her house. It was past twelve at midnight but still no Ace wasing. Ace should have arrived at her boarding house twenty minutes ago.


    She sat down on the sofa and seemed to be losing her appetite. She has to ept the fact that Ace isn¡¯t reallying anymore.


    Anyway, she¡¯s not new to Ace. Not really. He must have changed his mind so he just didn¡¯t go on.


    Who is she that would waste Ace¡¯s time? Yet, every time they get close they are always fighting. She and Ace didn¡¯t really get along so she thought it was impossible for anyone to mediate between the two of them.


    What if she just gets him drunk? But of course not here in her house. She should take him to another ce, a kind of romantic ce that she will never forget her first experience. Gina just giggled at the craziness she was thinking.


    Thinking like a woman of experience huh, Georgina. She hasn¡¯t even had a serious rtionship before. She had boyfriends in the past, but usually their rtionshipsts only three months.


    Before Ace came into her life, she also dated a lot of men, hoping that she would find her lifetime partner before she was twenty-five years old. But she didn¡¯t like any of them even though the others were persistent with her.


    Twenty-five is her target age to get married because she doesn¡¯t want to be like her cousins ?and aunt who didn¡¯t get married when they were over the age of twenty-five, as if the race is over. Now that she is twenty-four, her chances of getting married seem to be getting smaller and smaller. If she doesn¡¯t really do everything to get married, she will be an old virgin.


    Her deep thought was aroused when she heard a faint knock on her door, and she was suddenly confused. She took a deep breath and counted her steps to ten before she opened the door.


    It was Ace, but her sulk was more dominant than the pleasure of seeing him because he made her wait again.


    ¡°I thought you changed your mind.¡± She pretended to be drowsy by yawning while turning her back on Red.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It took me a while because something¡­ are you the one who decorated your house, Gina?¡± Ace changes the topic from what he first said while walking around her living room as if surveying the house.


    ¡°Who else? I live here alone.¡± She replied sarcastically.


    Ace just rolled his eyes and nced around the room which she filled with various kinds of decorations.


    ¡°I think your house is full of decorations.¡±


    She saw Ace take her heart-shaped pillow from the sofa while she frowned and stared at the pillow.


    Ace turned his gaze to the wall of her house. ¡°What do you call the color of this wall of yours?¡±


    ¡°Turquoise blue.¡±


    ¡°Well, the color you chose is beautiful.¡± Acemented.


    ¡°Shades of blue are my favorite color.¡± She replied.


    ACE


    He sees that Gina is good at tidying up the house, because she is very organized with her belongings. Although her boarding house is not very big, but it is clean and airy.


    He also noticed the collectible items inside her ss cab that all the disys there were wedding give-aways.


    Did Gina was that desperate? He heard that his co-workers were talking about her that Gina¡¯s future husband would be lucky to get married with her, because he would not have to spend much on their wedding. Gina had saved her dream wedding well. Why is marriage such a big deal for Gina? he asked himself.


    GINA


    ¡°Would you like something to drink, Ace? I also have a slice of bread here and orange juice.¡± She didn¡¯t wait for Ace to answer and instead she went straight to the kitchen to prepare something to eat and drink for Ace. ¡°Take off your jacket first and feel at home.¡±


    ¡°Georgina.¡±


    She immediately turned her attention to Ace calling her real name.


    ¡°Come here first.¡±


    ¡°W-why?¡±


    Ace justughed at her. ¡°You¡¯re very suspicious.¡±


    ¡°Actually, you act very unusual to me tonight.¡± She replied to Ace.


    ¡°Is that so?¡± said Ace and stepped closer to her. ¡°I¡¯m looking for an opportunity to talk to you without fighting.¡±


    She saw Ace take a small gold box from his pocket. Then he took her right hand and ced the small box in her palm.


    ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°Open it, so you will know.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.. I think it¡¯s just a keychain.¡±


    Before she thought of opening the box, she shook it first.


    ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°Guess what.¡±


    ¡°You know Ace, when I was a kid, when I received gifts from my godparents, I guessed it, before I opened it.¡±


    ¡°You will no longer be surprised if you can guess.¡±


    She just smiled at Ace.


    The man stepped closer to her. ¡°Why don¡¯t you just open it?¡±


    ¡°If I open it right away, I can¡¯t predict anything.¡± She just swallowed because she and Ace were so close that she could almost smell his addictive scent.


    Ace took another step closer to her, this time they were really very close, so her knees were already softening. ¡°All right, open it.¡±


    She also thought that if she still didn¡¯t open it, Ace would step closer to her again and she was sure that their bodies would react. She was also tense with the closeness of the two of them so she thought of just opening it.


    She held her breath as she opened the contents of the box.


    ¡°Wow!¡±


    ¡°You said you lost your earrings, right? That¡¯s why I thought of giving it to you.¡±


    Gina took the gold onyx stud earrings from its box and put them on right away. ¡°I like it, thank you.¡±


    ¡°Uhm¡­ not only that, I have another gift for you.¡±


    She was surprised when Ace gave her another small box. Compared to Ace first gift to her, she was more excited to open the second one. When she saw it, her eyes widened. It is an expensive glowing white gold ne with an opal teardrop pendant, and in her calction it costs more than ten thousand pesos.


    ¡°Can I wear that for you?¡± Ace asked her while extending his hands to her.


    ¡°All right.¡± She replied.


    It seemed like an hour as Ace wore the ne around her neck. As he fastened the sp of the ne, his fingertips grazed upon her neck and it seemed to grind her. While the pendant itself rested at the heart level. She turned around to face Ace and as if to thank him.


    ¡°Thank you for the wonderful birthday gifts you gave.¡± she said as she held the pendant of the ne.


    ¡°Did you like it?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°So in that case, you won¡¯t take those off?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Are we even going to argue?¡±


    ¡°Depends.. just wait I¡¯ll get you something to drink first.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother anymore Gina, I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    The two stared at each other for a moment.


    She is now stepping closer to Ace. ¡°Do you want to know what Maryam gave me?¡±? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    ¡°Never mind.¡±


    She just smiled meaningfully at Ace.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure her gift to you is one of her products.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right and I liked what she gave me, but I want to know what your opinion is.¡± She said as she took the gift Maryam gave her.


    ACE


    He stiffened in his stance as Gina showed off the sexy lingerie that Maryam had given her, and one of them was that red see-through nightie whose sexiness was really breathtaking.


    Holy cow! It looks like the ones wearing that are really naked. He then thought about what happened to Maryamst night. The four men would have almost taken advantage of her if he hadn¡¯te to that bar. What he med was the very sexy thing Maryam was wearing that night.


    ¡°Is Maryam a really good designer?¡± she said and at the same time, she shows Ace the other lingerie design that Maryam gave her.


    ¡°The red one looks something on you.¡±


    ¡°Is it something? I guess I prefer the pastel colors. Do you think red is something for me?¡±


    ¡°And do you think men will still care what color those lingerie are?¡±


    Gina went silent for a second.


    ¡°Just in case Ace, when you want to buy your girlfriend this kind of dress, what color and design would you choose?¡± Gina asked him in a low seductive voice.


    ¡°If you were to ask me, I¡¯d rather choose she wasn¡¯t wearing any clothes than wear that as if she¡¯s already naked.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s too much of you.¡± Gina said while catching her breath.


    ¡°Oh, yes.¡± He said walking towards Gina and he kissed the girl on the cheek.


    GINA


    She was really surprised when Ace kissed her because she didn¡¯t expect it. She almost forgot to breathe when his lips touched her cheek. When she was able to breathe, Ace suddenly disappeared like a bubble, and worst of all, he left her alone and stunned.


    She couldn¡¯t be bothered anymore, she just walked back and forth in her living room and didn¡¯t know what to do, until she heard her cellphone ring. When she looked at the caller, she answered immediately.


    ¡°Hi, I just forgot to say good night to you.¡±


    Ace. She was pleased to hear the voice on the other line. ¡°Have you been home yet?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m still here in my car, maybe in about ten minutes and I¡¯ll get to the apartment. How about you, what are you doing now?¡±


    ¡°Lying in bed.¡± She lied immediately. ¡°And I¡¯m naked, except for the ne you gave me.¡± She teased.


    ¡°Really?¡± Ace asked her curiously.


    ¡°Joke. Just imagine.¡± She replied jokingly.


    But suddenly the one on the other line fell silent.


    ¡°Why Ace, are you interested if that¡¯s true?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m really interested in you, Gina, even from the beginning.¡±


    Her heart seemed to jump with joy when she heard what Ace was telling her and she was suddenly dumbfounded.


    ¡°I¡¯m really sorry for teasing you.¡± Ace said, breaking her silence.


    ¡°It¡¯s all right. Hmm, Ace¡­ do you believe there¡¯s something between the two of us?¡±


    ¡°Maybe, but let¡¯s work it together, Gina, and¨C¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not asking you to marry me.¡± She interrupted what Ace would have said. ¡°All I want is for us to get along, that we don¡¯t always fight anymore.¡±


    When Ace didn¡¯t answer her, she just said goodbye to the man but she still didn¡¯t end the call, until Ace cut the other line, leaving her hanging.


    ACE


    He cut off the call and closed his eyes for a moment while he just waited for the traffic light signal to go. Naked, except for the ne he gave to her. Heughed when he remembered what Gina said. The girl already teased him, so he cut the call because their conversation might have led somewhere else. She was too smart, too quick and most of all she was very attractive.


    He and Gina are really very different because apart from being a hopeless romantic who likes to believe in what they call true love and fairytale romances, he is the opposite of what she believes, and he just likes to react so maybe she¡¯s always pissed at him. And Gina, she is also very vocal and her life is like an open book while he is like a locked diary full of various secrets.


    He just wished that he wouldn¡¯t be close as possible to Gina, just like he kept his distance from her all this time, but sometimes he couldn¡¯t avoid getting close to her even though he knew that one day woulde that she would hate him.


    He turned to the dashboard clock and also carefully looked at his rear view mirror making sure no one was following him.


    He drove across the Jones bridge to Binondo, until he came to a house that the fence was so high that you wouldn¡¯t think there was a house inside. He could see that his office was still lit, so he thought that his Dad might still be awake. His father is the only person in the world he can tell about his work and Gina. He can describe his father as rxed, sitting in his high-backed leather chair while listening, counseling, and encouraging him. He wished for a thousand times that his parents hadn¡¯t just separated. He hopes he does always have someone to lean on for everything. But that never happened anymore and he will never be able to go back in time.


    *****

 Chapter 4

    GINA


    After she wrapped the valentines gift for her sister and mother, the magazine article she¡¯s writing is now the focus of her attention because the deadline is sooner. She is interning with a magazine publishingpany as a pre-requisite for her to graduate from the course she is taking. She is currently in her third year of college, and the reason why she did not graduated yet because she has been supporting her family since her father died. She also supports her sister Janice, who is now in her second year of college.


    She opened herptop again and searched for the file she was writing about career-oriented women.


    She was in the middle of her typing when there was a sudden knock on her door. She immediately went near the door and asked.


    ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°Delivery for Miss Suarez.¡±


    When she opened the door, she saw a man carrying arge bouquet of red roses.


    ¡°Oh, how beautiful.¡± She said excitedly as the man handed it to her.


    She didn¡¯t think that Ace would be true to what he said that he was interested in her.


    As soon as she closed the door, she jumped for joy because she received flowers from Ace. Sheid it down on her center table and began to read what was written on the small card attached to it.


    Her heart was pounding when she read it.


    I wannay you down in the bed of roses. ¨C B. N.


    B. N? not A. D., or not A. R. D? OMG! then it is not Ace but Brando who sends her flowers because of its written initials.


    How? How did Brando know where she lived? she asked herself confused. She was sure that he didn¡¯t find out about it at the restaurant because it was forbidden for them to let any guests know where they were staying. Unless he followed her home. Suddenly her whole muscle trembled at the thought.


    She slowly approached the window to see if there was a limousine parked there or someone in front of her boarding house. But there is none. As in nothing really.


    She was surprised when her cellphone suddenly rang and it was an unregistered caller. But she still answered it.


    ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°Good morning, Gina.¡±


    Brando.¡±Who is this?¡±


    Instead of answering her, the person on the other line justughed at her.


    ¡°I was disappointed that you didn¡¯t call me. Have you received the flowers?¡±


    She pretended not to recognize his voice immediately. ¡°Sir Brando, is that you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good and you still remember me, Gina. Did you like the flowers?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s very nice sir, but I hope you don¡¯t send or give me anything next time because I won¡¯t ept it anymore.¡±


    ¡°You deserve lovely things, Gina.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not asking for anything Sir Brando, because I¡¯m satisfied with what I have now. And one more thing, I can buy what I need.¡±


    ¡°ying hard to get huh? Gina.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be honest with you Mr. Nics, I don¡¯t want you to call me anymore, and also stop giving me tips and don¡¯t ever send me anything again.¡±


    ¡°You know miss beautiful, you¡¯re more challenging if you¡¯re like that.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t waste your time on me Mr. Nics, because¡­ because I¡¯m already engaged with someone else.¡±


    Brando justughed at her. ¡°You know I¡¯ve noticed that you always call me ¡®sir¡¯. Am I that much older than you? I¡¯m only 37, and by the way Gina, I just wanted to inform you that I¡¯ll be out of town by tomorrow. And even if you don¡¯t want to, I¡¯ll still call you.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you reserve a VIP room tonight?¡±


    ¡°Cancel it for me, will you? And Oh, Gina, I just forgot to tell you that I did a background check on you, and I happen to know that there¡¯s no special someone in your life right now. I want you Gina, and whoever tries to approach or woo you can taste my cruelty, remember that, love.¡± And he ends the call.


    She was speechless at what Brando said, she just gaped and was momentarily stunned. She wondered what else Brando knew about her. When she suddenly regained consciousness, she immediately double-checked the lock of her door.


    One weekter¡­


    One week before Brando went to the restaurant and Ace cold treatment returned to normal. It¡¯s been a week since Ace tried to avoid her, and if he notices her, he¡¯ll just tease her. She also noticed that Ace seemed rxed if Brando didn¡¯t show up at the restaurant. His forehead is not always frowning and he oftenughs as well. What she really didn¡¯t want was to fight with her female colleagues knowing their intentions with Ace, she was not only irritated, but also got hurt.


    She realizes that when Brando is there, Ace focus is only on her. Is he jealous of Brando? She asked herself confused.


    She thought that Ace had already started treating her well on her birthday. But now the wind is blowing differently.


    She always wears the ne that Ace gave her but Ace also doesn¡¯t care every time he sees her still wearing it.


    What if she lets Ace know that Brando sends her gifts everyday? What would be his reaction?


    The packaged that arrived daily didn¡¯t tempt her, but she was just curious about what was written on the small card so she opened it just to read what Brando wrote there.


    She received the package again that day and she read the card that was written.


    Money can¡¯t buy love, but it improves your bargaining position. ¨C B. N. The only content of the package is an expensive gown designed by a famous designer in the country. He even wrote a letter saying that she should wear the gown on their first date.


    The next day she received another package from Brando and here is what was written on the card again.


    A face that couldunch a thousand ships, Sweet Gina, makes me immortal with a kiss.- B. N. He invited her to be his date on Valentines Day, aboard a cruise ship.


    The following day she read the card again.


    Love me little, but love me long.- B. N. There¡¯s aplimentary ticket to a theater y inserted in the small card.


    She knows very well the lines that Brando writes on the card because it is inspired by her favorite poems.


    ** VALENTINES DAY **


    On the day of the heart, Gina once again received a package from Brando.


    She was surprised because the package she received now seemed unusual, but she also didn¡¯t care about what Brando sent her and she also nned to return them when she met Brando.


    She immediately opened the card even though she was afraid to read it.


    Come live with me and be my love. ¨C B. N.


    But when she read what was written at the end of it, her eyes almost popped out when she read it.


    GINA SUAREZ, WILL YOU MARRY ME?


    She would have been thrilled if she loved Brando, but she didn¡¯t. What is she going to do?


    She didn¡¯t want to open the gift she received today but out of curiosity she still opened it.


    Her hands were shaking as she opened the package sent by Brando. She was nervous but she was very anxious to find out what was inside. But before she could open it, she had in mind that the contents of the package were jewelry because it was the same as the box that Ace gave her during her birthday. She also thinks that it is a key to a house based on the meaningful line of the poem that Brando writes on the card, and she knows that her thoughts are not impossible because of Brando¡¯s wealth.


    But she suddenly stopped thinking when her cellphone rang and she smiled when she saw the caller.


    ¡°Hello, Gina.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°Why is it that Ace Roderick Durant III suddenly called?¡±


    Ace didn¡¯t answer her right away.


    ¡°Why, did my call bother you?¡±


    ¡°No, no.¡±


    ¡°Have you sampled the wines we¡¯re going to use this Valentines Day?¡±


    ¡°Not yet, I have been so busy these past few days.¡±


    ¡°What keeps you busy right now?¡±


    ¡°Actually I¡¯m in deep thought right now.¡±


    ¡°Like what?¡±


    ¡°Like meaningful poems.¡±


    ¡°What is that all about, Gina?¡±


    She wanted to tell Ace about Brando but she didn¡¯t want to bother other people anymore.


    ¡°By the way, I called because I need something from you, Gina.¡±


    ¡°Of course you called for a reason. You never do anything without a reason.¡± She also wanted to know why he treated her differently, she thought they got along on her birthday.


    Ace went silent for a moment. What does he need from her? It will take them forever in his silence, Gina said to herself.


    ¡°I would like to ask you for a date after our duty,¡± Ace said.


    Out of character. Definitely out of character. What happened to Ace and all of a sudden he asked her for a date?


    ¡°Well, thank you for inviting me honey pie, but I have anothermitment after our duty.¡±


    ¡°Are you busy?¡±


    ¡°Honestly yes, I¡¯ve alreadymitted to someone. I let you know because I really need to get dressed because he¡¯sing.¡± She answered and looked at the watch to see what time it was.


    She was referring to her cousin Mark. He will be visiting his friend who was just near their house in Naga, so he just drove her to their house where her sister and mother were waiting for her. She can¡¯t postpone going to their house, especially since she hasn¡¯t been home to them for a long time. She remembered Ace sudden invitation to date her out, but she also thought it was good for him because he only just ignored her all week.


    ¡°I would like to date you, but you said that you already have a date.¡±


    ¡°Why did you suddenly invite me? Is your date back out?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the only one I want to date. By the way, who is the man you¡¯re dating, do I know him?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s tall, dark and handsome, who texted me early to see if we could go out tonight. So next time, don¡¯t hesitate to invite me so that no one else can get ahead of you¡­ okay, bye. ¡±


    ¡°Georgina.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I also know a line of Shakespeare¡¯s poetry, if it make sense to you.¡±


    ¡°All right, let me know.¡±


    ¡°¡®A horse! A horse! My kingdom for a horse!¡¯ ¡±


    Gina burst outughing when she heard that from Ace, even if she wanted to talk to Ace but she really had to say goodbye to the man because her cousin had already texted that he wasing. So she cut off Ace¡¯s call and hurried to go to the dressing room.


    After ten minutes, she heard a knock on the door.


    ¡°Coming.¡± She shouted at the knocker outside while she was still wearing her high-heels. She was about to go out, but she forgot to wear earrings and a ne that would match what she was wearing. So she heard a series of knocks because it took her a while to get dressed again. Finally, she already chose a dress, she settled for a clingy ck dress with its hem just above the knee. When she opened the door, she was about to greet her cousin Mark, but someone blocked her door. There were two men who looked like bouncers in the club because of their huge body builds. One of them was holding a bouquet of flowers while the other suddenly grabbed her tightly by the arm.


    ¡°Who are you? What do you need from me?¡±


    ¡°Read this card first, miss,¡± said the one holding the flowers.


    She stared intently at the two men and thought of the mastermind. A man was still holding her tightly so she struggled. One of them handed her a small card to read. She immediately opened it and read.


    An unforgettable evening awaits you, so do I. ¨C B. N.


    After she read it she was still struggling to get out of their grasp.


    ¡°Tell Mr. Nics I have an important matter to attend to.¡±


    But the two big men only exchanged nces. One of them said, ¡°We can¡¯t leave unless you go with us.¡±


    She was trembling with fear because she saw the two men in front of her with guns, but she still had to show them that she was brave. ¡°I told you, didn¡¯t I? I can¡¯t go with you because I have an important matter¨C¡±


    But the two men did not listen to her and instead forcibly pulled her away.


    Everything happened so fast, giving her no opportunity to grab her cellphone or even lose them because of the tightness of their hold on her.


    ¡°Let go of me.. help! .. Help!¡±


    The two men stopped pulling her and the other one faced her.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t stop screaming, we will cover your mouth.¡± Said the man who had been holding her arm.


    ¡°What if I don¡¯t want toe with you? Will you kidnap me?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s better that you juste with us, miss, so you won¡¯t be hurt. We¡¯re just following the boss¡¯s order.¡± said the man holding her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll only be going with you if you let go of me first, because I¡¯m already hurt by the tightness of your grip.¡±


    The man released her immediately.


    ¡°Did Mr. Nics really ordered you?¡±


    The two men just nodded at her. There¡¯s really nothing she can do, she can¡¯t really get rid of them and especially Brando.


    ¡°All right, I¡¯lle with you, maybe your boss will get angrier when we keep him waiting.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 5

    ACE


    He is now looking for a parking space not far from Gina¡¯s boarding house. He wants to surprise her and also he wants to find out if what she says is true that she already has a date who is tall, dark and handsome. But from what he could see with his eyes, what she was saying seemed to be the opposite. She was riding in an SUV with two men, so that¡¯s why he suspected.


    When Gina¡¯s sister Janice called him to invite him to their house to celebrate Valentines day, he refused. He thought that maybe there¡¯s no need to watch over Gina because he didn¡¯t have anything to worry about yet. He knew that Brando was out of town. But when he saw an SUV parked in front of Gina¡¯s boarding house, he was suddenly rmed. And he was just surprised when he saw Gina riding in the SUV with the two men. Now, he jumps into the conclusion that the tall and handsome she¡¯s referring to is none other than, Brando Nics.


    He just wondered why there was no trace of fear on Gina¡¯s face even though the men were carrying guns and from what he could see, it looked like she was just calm inside the SUV.


    He was shocked by what he saw and immediately followed the speeding vehicle. When they stopped at a traffic light, he immediately looked at his mini GPS tracker and activated it. While checking at the digital numbers through his in-dash car monitor, he was rmed again when he discovered that Gina was not wearing the ne he gave her.


    He immediately took his cell phone and dialed a number from his contacts.


    The person he called answered immediately.


    ¡°Yes.¡± said the gentle voice on the other line.


    ¡°Do you know me?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Of course! Why did you ask me handsome? And what can I do for you?¡±


    ¡°I need a favor.¡±


    GINA


    The SUV they were riding in entered the underground parking garage of a high-rise building. After it was parked, she was immediately lowered by the two men with her. They took her to an elevator where only those with special keys could ess it. She thought that if the elevator system in this area was like that, she really wouldn¡¯t be able to escape.


    One of the two men pressed the B *** mark, and in a few seconds the door opened wide and they entered. The other man pushed the 25th floor button until they got there. Another pressed the B *** mark and the elevator door opened again. When they came out of the elevator, arge living room opened up to her with a ss wall and from where she was standing, she could see the view of Man Bay. She turned to the side and saw Brando there, standing near the ss wall, dressed in a tuxedo while talking on his cell phone.


    ¡°Make sure you continue the deal because if you don¡¯t -¡± Brando said angrily and turned his attention to her direction, but when he saw her, he immediately put down his cell phone. The fierce voice she had heard earlier suddenly became gentle while Brando smiled at her.


    ¡°I guess you just got here fast,¡± his smile widened and walked towards her.


    ¡°Miss Suarez. How nice of you to join me.¡±


    ¡°Stop it, Mr. Nics, it¡¯s more nice that you just called me, not that you forced me toe here.¡±


    Gina noticed that Brando gave a fiery look to his two men, blocking her at any attempt to escape. Then, he smiled meaningfully at her.


    ¡°I know how intimidating the look of my two bodyguards, Gina, but I assure you that they mean no harm.¡± Brando said, extending a hand to her in greeting.


    She didn¡¯t ept Brando¡¯s handshake with her, and she also didn¡¯t care if his bodyguards were harmless or not. ¡°Then, why did they force me toe here even though I told them I had an important matter to attend to. They gave me no choice and that¡¯s kidnapping. ¡±


    Brandon nodded to his two bodyguards, signaling them to depart.


    ¡°Do you have an important matter to attend?¡± Brando asked her again and touched her elbow, guiding her into the room where the full view of the boulevard could be seen.


    ¡°Honestly, Mr. Nics, I even turned down someone who asked me for a date because I really have an important matter to attend. While you are forcing me toe here. Who do you think you are?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m the only man who likes you the most, Gina. Wait, I¡¯ll get you something to drink first, do you want some wine?¡± he asked her.


    She had to calm down, she also had to think of a valid reason so that she could elude Brandon.


    Even though she didn¡¯t answer, he still gave her a champagne ss with wine. ¡°Where are you going? Will you meet your sister, Janice? If you¡¯re wondering why I know Janice, well I¡¯m sorry, I just want to know about you and your family, Gina.¡± Brando said while drinking his wine.


    ¡°Have a taste of this wine. It¡¯s a delightful California zinfandel I just discovered.¡±


    She drank some of the wine and liked the taste.


    ¡°Shall we sit?¡± Brando asked her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll stand. Thank you.¡±


    ¡°As you wish.¡± Brando replied and moved a little away from her. ¡°Where do you n to celebrate Valentines?¡±


    ¡°I have no ns to celebrate Valentines, and I will give you back the gifts you sent me. As I told you, I¡¯m engaged with someone else.¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s not what I found out.¡±


    ¡°We just hid our rtionship right now.¡±


    ¡°And why? Is he a married guy?¡±


    ¡°Of course not.¡±


    ¡°My dear Gina, I don¡¯t think you¡¯re honest with me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not ying games with you, Mr. Nics.¡±


    ¡°But you are.¡±


    She flinched as he touched her hair.


    ¡°I already told you that you are so challenging when you¡¯re like that, right? I like you Gina, I really like you, and since you¡¯re here, why don¡¯t we do what should I intend to happen?¡± said Brando to her.


    ¡°It can¡¯t be what you want to happen, because I¡¯m on my period.¡± She answered quickly.


    But Brando justughed at her. ¡°I¡¯m not that rude Gina, if that¡¯s what you think. All I want to happen is to invite you to a dinner date tonight.¡±


    ¡°And what if I don¡¯t agree?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°Yeah, you can¡¯t leave if you don¡¯t agree to be my date this Valentines day.¡±


    ¡°Sir Brando, please, I have really an important matter to attend today. Besides, I¡¯m not interested in your invitation.¡±


    Brando justughed and suddenly pulled her and made her sit on the couch. ¡°Then I must regretfully insist. I invited you in a nice way Gina, so don¡¯t me me for anything I can do to you.¡±


    In the tone of Brando¡¯s voice, he was really angry with her. She knew Brando would get what he wanted, if he really wanted to.


    She could already see the anger in his eyes. She was trembling with fear of Brando¡¯s reaction to her. But she thought that no matter what happened she would really defend herself against the wicked man in front of her.


    ¡°I¡¯m not afraid of you, Mr. Nics.¡±


    Brando¡¯s face calmed down at what she was saying.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Gina, for what I told you, I just want to be with you today.¡±


    ¡°In that case, let me call my sister and mother because I know at this time they are worried about me.¡±


    ¡°My secretary will be the one to inform them. Now, shall we go?¡±


    ¡°Where are we going?¡±


    Brando grabbed her elbow again, guided her toward the elevator. Suddenly, his two bodyguards appeared and she could not determine where they came from.


    ¡°To the rooftop of this hotel. Don¡¯t worry I¡¯ll take you to a restaurant. We¡¯ll have lunch there.¡±


    A public ce meant safety, she thought. She sighed as a sign of relief. At least now, she could manage this, she could manage him. All she had to think about was how to elude Brandon and the tightness of his bodyguards.


    *****

 Chapter 6

    GINA


    She could almost see the whole Metro Man when they reached the rooftop of the hotel. They were now at the elegant restaurant where Brando had brought her. She appreciates the ce because of its romantic ambiance, but she would still prefer to escape that ce.


    ¡°Gina?¡±


    ¡°Gina?¡±


    Reluctantly, she faced Brando who seemed to be losing his appetite. When she sees Brando, it seems like he will soon lose his patience with her because of herck of interest in the man in front of her.


    ¡°Gina, I¡¯ll give you everything you want, I¡¯ll put you in the mansion where you¡¯ll live like a princess, and I¡¯ll also give you unlimited ess to my credit cards, if you¡¯ll just agree to be my wife.¡±


    She became uneasy by what Brando offered her, especially to be his wife. Yes, she wants to get married but not to the man she doesn¡¯t love. She looked at the waitresses who served because she could see herself in them, wondering how they also get tips from their customers. She doesn¡¯t get a big sry at the restaurant she works at, but somehow she is still thankful for the tips given to her. It also helps with her daily expenses. But even if she suffers, she will never get married just because of money.


    ¡°I don¡¯t usually make an offer so freely.¡± Brando added. ¡°You¡¯re exceptional in fact.¡±


    Was she supposed to feel ttered because there are so many women out there, but the famous businessman proposes to her?


    Their food had been served before, but she didn¡¯t even manage to touch it. She really needs to tell Brando that she doesn¡¯t want to marry him. She was about to speak when she suddenly noticed the newly arrived woman she was familiar with, she¡¯s wearing an elegant red dress, capturing and holding everyone¡¯s eyes. The woman sat at the table and she was behind at the woman¡¯s back, and as she can see, the woman was busy talking to herpanion, so Gina wasn¡¯t so sure if she really knew that woman.


    When thedy turned around, she was suddenly hopeful.


    ¡°Oh, hello dear! What a surprise to see you here.¡±


    She smiled as Maryam touched her shoulder and felt relieved for the first time that day.


    ¡°Hi Maryam,¡± he greeted enthusiastically.


    ¡°Happy Valentines, Brando.¡±


    Brando stood to shake Maryam¡¯s hand. They exchanged pleasantries for a minute. Why is it that Brando didn¡¯t ask Maryam for a date? she thinks the two of them are better together.


    ¡°Gina, my dear, I¡¯m going to the powder room, pleasee with me.¡±


    She quickly stood up in her seat, not giving Brando a second to stop her. She linked her arm through Maryam¡¯s and they walked quickly towards the restroom. When they reached the front of the restroom, she immediately pulled Maryam inside.


    ¡°Maryam, I have a big favor to ask you.¡±


    ¡°What about?¡±


    ¡°Can you help me get out of here? It¡¯s a long story for me to exin to you now, and I also know that Brando will be mad at me, but I¡¯m willing to risk sneaking out, even though I know what he can do to me.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the right thing to do, my dear. In the river of life, he¡¯s a crocodile and you¡¯re a tadpole.¡± Maryam said, in a meaningful statement.


    Maryam took her iPhone from her purse and called someone.


    ¡°Hello there, Jalen. This is Maryam Velez¡­¡±


    She was just listening to Maryam how she made arrangements just so she could get out of the sky-rise restaurant, then Maryam ended the call and put her phone back into the purse.


    ¡°It¡¯s all set, my dear. Jalen will be right outside the door.¡±


    ¡°Thanks Maryam, I owe you this.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a lesson learned for you, my dear. Just don¡¯t bite a man that you can¡¯t chew.¡± Maryam told her.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t bite this one, Maryam.¡± She replied. ¡°I¡¯ve never experienced this in my whole life. And honestly, I only consider Mr. Nics as one of our good and respectable customers. But, what I just don¡¯t expect is for him to do something against my will. So I¡¯m afraid of what he might be going to do, Maryam. I know that by the time I get out of here he will be angry.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m scared for you too, Gina. Trust me, this is not the man you¡¯re going to be involved with.¡±


    She frowned at what Maryam has said. ¡°Maryam, I can¡¯t leave you here as long as Brando¡¯s here, he might suspect you¡¯re the one who helped me escape from him. I also don¡¯t want you to get hurt.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me, my dear, I already knew how to deal with men like him,¡± Maryam said.


    ¡°But, Mar¨C¡± Maryam interrupted her.


    ¡°Sshh.. just follow me out.¡±


    She took a deep breath before following Maryam out of the restroom. During their conversation in the restroom, she expected that when they came out, Brando and his bodyguards were already waiting there. But when theye out, a tall man meets them whom she knows by the name Jalen, she hugs Maryam and she says goodbye. Jalen guided her through the kitchen and showed her an elevator.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, that¡¯s our service elevator.¡± Jalen told her.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°Thank You, Jalen¡±


    Jalen nodded in response.


    She was about to press the button on the elevator when it suddenly opened.


    ¡°Hi Alice! How was your adventure in wondend?¡±


    ¡°Ace! How are you¨C, what are you doing here?¡± she asked the man.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m trying to ask you.¡± Ace replied.


    ¡°Don¡¯t start Ace, because I¡¯m not in the mood right now.¡± She said irritably.


    She entered the elevator and pressed the button for the ground floor, but it did not work so she pressed it several times. ¡°Ohe on! Come on!¡± She said irritably.


    ¡°Just calm down, Gina, you¡¯re ruining it even more. By the way, aren¡¯t you carrying a coat or even a zer? It looks like you¡¯re wearing something cold.¡±


    ¡°I left it at home, why? Do you have a problem with what I¡¯m wearing?¡± she red at Ace. ¡°Be honest with me Ace, are you following me? It¡¯s impossible that it¡¯s just a coincidence that you¡¯re here, too.¡±


    ¡°Please be patient. I¡¯ll tell youter.¡±


    Her whole body was shaking now, not from the cold but from fear. After a moment, she just felt Ace wrapping his leather jacket around her. It gives her warmth andfort plus his addictive scent.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She said shyly because in fact she¡¯s really cold wearing a backless dress.


    She was very grateful when the elevator function again, and at the same time she and Ace rode the elevator down to the ground floor.


    They are now walking towards Ace¡¯s car without talking to each other.


    *****

 Chapter 7

    ACE


    Gina still didn¡¯t say a word until he apanied her to her boarding house. She let him inside the house and when he passed the door, he noticed that there was cracked.


    ¡°What happened here?¡± he asked Gina as he pointed to the cracked door.


    ¡°Brando¡¯s men do that.¡±


    He inspected the splintered wood and let himself calm down first. If only he could have reached out to Brando¡¯s men to sweep Gina away. He knows that only Brando has a n for this, and based on his track record, he won¡¯t just give up if this man likes someone.


    If he only knew that Gina needed him at that time.


    ¡°Mr. Nics probably won¡¯t be able to hurt you.¡± he said to Gina. Because he can¡¯t show that he is worried for the girl. For now, he must first control his temper with that man, knowing that anger would defeat his purpose. ¡°I don¡¯t think he will hurt you.¡±


    ¡°Did you know that Mr. Nics forced me to go to that ce, and now you¡¯re just going to tell me he can¡¯t hurt me.¡±


    ¡°All right, let¡¯s say you were forcibly taken by Brando¡¯s men, but he didn¡¯t do anything bad to you, did he?¡± he grabbed Gina¡¯s elbow and sat her down on the couch. They sat several feet apart.


    ¡°Nothing, and I¡¯m not afraid of him either. He can¡¯t control me because he doesn¡¯t own me. That man is really weird.¡±


    ¡°Weird? Why are you saying that?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s really weird. I don¡¯t know how to exin his weirdness. He¡¯s just like that to me. Why are you at the hotel?¡±


    ¡°Because Janice invited me toe to your house, so I immediately went to your boarding house to pick you up.¡± He quickly alibi. ¡°But when I arrived, I just saw that you were riding in an SUV with two men, I doubt so I followed you.¡±


    ¡°So was Maryam there because of you?¡±


    ¡°No. Maybe it¡¯s just a coincidence that Maryam was there, too.¡±


    ¡°I feel like Mr. Nics is looking down on me. He thinks maybe he can just buy me with his money. I¡¯m sorry if I tell you these. I¡¯ll just leave you here first.¡±


    ¡°Take your time, Gina. You can take a bath to relieve the tension in your body.¡±


    When he heard the rush of watering from the bathroom, he immediately stood up to look at the entirety of Gina¡¯s rented house. He entered a room there and saw the things that was scattered. He also sees some clothes hanging there, appreciating it as well as the proportion of Gina wearing those dresses. His willpower should be stretched to the limit especially in working beside her, because Gina is venomous and he thinks there is really no man who cannot be attracted to her. She flirted relentlessly with him, feeling safe perhaps, or maybe just testing him. He¡¯d rarely reacted openly. It¡¯s just that all he could offer to her is self-control, protection and respect.


    He is here in the Philippines for an important mission and it should havee first. Unfortunately, it just so happened that Gina became part of his mission.


    He forced his gaze from the dress form, shifting instead to the opposite corner where a desk held aputer and printer. Stacks of paper were filed neatly beside it. He resisted the temptation to thumb through them.


    After a few minutes, Gina came out of her room. She was wearing a pink bathrobe and her wet hair was loose. He wished he had the right to hold her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for the clutter here. I¡¯m just redecorating the other room.¡±


    ¡°Nice home, Gina. I think I told you thatst time.¡±


    ¡°You know Ace, even though I¡¯m just renting this house, but I really felt home here.¡±


    ¡°Are you sewing, too?¡± he immediately asked when he saw a sewing machine with ovepping pieces of clothing.


    ¡°Yeah, my second love. Aside from writing.¡±


    ¡°What course did you take, Gina?¡±


    ¡°Bachelor of Arts major in English, minor in fashion. I know it¡¯s a weirdbination, but I have ns for both.¡±


    ¡°By the way, where is the ne I gave you?¡±


    He saw that Gina was surprised by his sudden question. She smiled before answering.


    ¡°Because it doesn¡¯t match what I was wearing.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you that you wouldn¡¯t take it off?¡±


    ¡°Fashion earrings are the earrings I wore a while ago, they don¡¯t match the ne you gave me.¡±


    ¡°Ahh, I see. So fashiones before sentiment.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that Ace, it¡¯s just -¡±


    He immediately covered Gina¡¯s mouth so that she wouldn¡¯t talk anymore.


    ¡°Never mind. Just tell me what happened.¡± he said, sitting next to her.


    Gina was about to start her narrative when her cell phone suddenly rang.


    ¡°If it¡¯s Brando Nics, let me listen to your conversation.¡± he said.


    ¡°But why?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re making meugh again, Gina. Go ahead and answer that.¡±


    ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°Hello my little fox, you seemed to be enjoying the chase.¡±


    Gina pressed the loudspeaker option so he could hear it as well.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I never said goodbye to you when I left, because I went straight to our house in Naga. I decided that the family should take priority first over anyone else.¡±


    ¡°But you didn¡¯t go to your hometown in Naga, love.¡±


    ¡°Actually, my head hurts. So¡­ I just didn¡¯t go there.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll just forgive you for what you did on that day, Gina. Maybe, I underestimated how much you resented our arrangement this evening. But next time I¡¯ll ask, mark my words. I¡¯ll get you by hook or by crook.¡±


    He quickly took the cellphone from Gina¡¯s hand and cut off the call.


    ¡°You handled that very well,¡± he said to Gina.


    He saw in Gina¡¯s reaction that Brando was irritated. She even mimicked what Brando was telling her. ¡°I will get you by hook or by crook.. haha.. in his dreams.¡±


    ¡°Maybe that¡¯s the way Brando will use you, so now Gina, you will choose which way to go?¡±


    ¡°You seems that you like me to choose between dead or alive?¡±


    ¡°Woah! Take it easy. You¡¯re safe,¡± he said to Gina.


    ¡°But Mr. Nics is an influential man and he can do whatever he wants.¡±


    He held Gina¡¯s hands to calm her down. He can¡¯t give Gina the full details about Brando¡¯s personality. Three women have been raped and killed and the evidence points to Brando, but because Brando is an influential person, it¡¯s easy for him to turn people around and by not getting the justice they deserve. So he would never let Gina be his next victim either.


    ¡°Tell me Ace, do you know anything about him?¡± Gina asked.


    He saw suspicion cloud in her eyes. Be careful what you answer Ace, he said to himself. She¡¯s too perceptive.


    ¡°None.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure? Did you know that Maryam called him a crocodile? I also don¡¯t understand why she called him that. He¡¯s a member of the club, right? And the members there are¨C¡±


    ¡°Must be rich and powerful, and above all known in society, that¡¯s all I know about, Gina.¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I hurt the ego of a powerful person, how is that? Maybe tomorrow or the day after, he¡¯ll fire me.¡± Gina sat down on the couch and wiped her face. She told him to sit down.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think Brando will do that to you. Yes, you hurt his pride but that¡¯s not enough reason for him to fire you.¡±


    Gina smiled slightly at what he said.


    ¡°Maybe you need to go home first.¡± he suggested.


    Gina was stunned by what he said. ¡°I can¡¯t, because Brando might follow me there and my family will be at risk.¡±


    He didn¡¯t agree with what Gina said. He thinks it¡¯s safer if she goes home to her family first. He should be able to think of a way to protect her against Brando by now.


    ¡°I think you really need to go home first.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s where I¡¯ll hide?¡± she shook her head. ¡°I already told you that I can¡¯t, because I don¡¯t want my family to get hurt. I will never hide. I¡¯m not running from this. I have a life to live, and my job is here. Also my studies. Leave me alone Ace, you might get hurt also because of me, I can handle this. ¡±


    ¡°No, Gina. You can¡¯t handle this alone.¡±


    ¡°I can handle this.¡±


    He leaned forward. ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate Brando¡¯s ability. Remember, he¡¯s powerful and maybe dangerous as well.¡±


    ¡°He should nevere near me, because by chance I¡¯ll call the police and file him a restraining order.¡± Gina said.


    ¡°Do you think that the police will help?¡± he immediately asked.


    ¡°Maybe.¡± Gina replied.


    ¡°Maybe? So you¡¯re not sure? Hmm.. looks like you¡¯re stuck with me,¡± he said.


    ¡°What stuck are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°I can only see one solution to your problem, Gina.¡±


    ¡°And what¡¯s that, huh?¡±


    ¡°Marry me.¡±? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    *****

 Chapter 8

    GINA


    She was dumbfounded by what Ace said. What? He will marry me? She felt the blood drain from her face, while she couldn¡¯t move her mouth to answer Ace.


    ¡°We¡¯re not going to be in the same room,¡± Ace assured her. ¡°We need to ensure your security because as long as you¡¯re married to me, I can protect you.¡±


    ¡°Protect,¡± she repeated thest thing Ace told her.


    ¡°As far as I know, Brando has his own code of ethics. He won¡¯t touch another man¡¯s wife and another man¡¯s leaving, because for him -¡®What¡¯s him is only for him¡¯ ¨C even though he left his wife then.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s already married?¡± she was in shock.


    ¡°Before, but now he¡¯s a widower.¡±


    ¡°What happened to his wife, Ace?¡±


    ¡°His wife was killed.¡±


    ¡°How?¡± she suddenly asked Ace and thought of it before she could speak again. ¡°How did you find out about them?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my job to find out about him. I mean, it¡¯s my job to find out their profile as a member of the club. Just trust me, Gina. I won¡¯t let anyone hurt you, I promise.¡±


    ¡°I need proof of what you¡¯re saying, Ace.¡±


    He leaned forward. ¡°Evidence? Isn¡¯t there enough evidence that Brando threatened you? And also think that we can¡¯t stop him from going to the restaurant because he¡¯s a member of the club there. Unless he does something against the club¡¯s policy, and he will be expelled there. But if that happens, it might be toote.¡±


    ¡°I need proof because I know that rumors are sometimes not true. I¡¯m just asking for proof Ace, because you know him better than me.¡±


    He sat back, seeming to rx. ¡°Gina, there¡¯s a saying that ¡®an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure¡¯. I have already offered you the solution. If we get married, he will stop chasing you and that way I can protect you. But you¡¯d better think about that first.¡±


    She closes her eyes to what Ace is telling her and caresses her forehead because her head suddenly hurts. ¡°I need to take aspirin first.¡± She said and turned her back on Ace.


    She immediately went to the kitchen to take medicine. After taking the two aspirin tablets, she immediately went to the bathroom and looked in the mirror. She thought about what Ace had said earlier. She was tempted to ept his offer, let Ace handle everything and to take care of her. She was tempted by that offer but she also didn¡¯t want to just ept it. Yes, she really dreamed of marrying the man she loves and the one she will lovepletely. She even dreamed of walking down the aisle with him, pledging to love, honor and cherish him forever. She also dreamed of meeting a man like herte father, who was loving and responsible. Above all, she believes in one man, one love and one marriage for a lifetime. And part of that dream is a meaningful marriage proposal which her husband-to-be dered his undying love and devotion. So she couldn¡¯t really imagine what Ace said earlier.


    ¡°Marry me.¡±


    ¡°Marry me.¡±


    ¡°Marry me.¡±


    Fantasy had no ce in reality as of the moment, especially in the current situation she is facing right now. Ace wanted her to trust him but he didn¡¯t trust her. How can they have a temporary marriage if they do not trust each other?


    Just temporary. She is just staring at the sink now. The truth is that even without Brando, even if he doesn¡¯t trust her or even if he doesn¡¯t love her, she will still want to marry Ace.


    Andstly, their rtionship is alsobeled and it¡¯s not just abel because they act as a married couple if she only agrees to his marriage proposal. She already has Ace within her reach, why would she refuse it? Maybe if they get married, she could use this time to create a home with him. They would share the same space, they would eat together and be able to talk for a long time. But if she agreed, of course she couldn¡¯t tell Ace her reason. She needed his own fantasy of protecting her. She thinks Ace is also right that Brando might stop chasing her once they get married.


    She carefully examined her makeup in the mirror andbed her wet hair. Perfect. Now she has to face Ace again and show him that in this situation, she is strong and not weak.


    ACE


    He just realized that Gina was behind him. He was deep in thought when Gina returned, like imagining himself living with her. He didn¡¯t know why he said that, why in everything else he offered Gina marriage as a solution. He can convince her to live in the safehouse first. Why did he say that? Maybe because he just doesn¡¯t want to lose sight of her.


    But from what he saw in Gina¡¯s eyes, he could see refusal on it, and she seemed to be shocked by what he said earlier.


    ¡°I¡¯ve changed my mind, Ace.¡± Gina said suddenly. ¡°All right, I¡¯ll marry you tonight.¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t do it now, Gina. We need to prepare for this first, people need to know that we are getting married, if we need to publish our wedding in the newspaper we will do that, we will also make wedding invitations. And most of all Brando needs to know we¡¯re getting married.¡±


    ¡°My family needs to know this first. And I also need to design my wedding gown myself, because Janice knows that one of my dreams is to be able to design my wedding gown.¡±


    ¡°So then, do you need enough time?¡±


    Gina approached the calendar and opened it. ¡°August 31. Maybe a month of preparation is enough. My ss is also over and we can also announce that we will have a honeymoon after the wedding. And one more thing, we first need to convince mama and Janice that we are really in love, so that they will believe in our speedy marriage.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll pay for your wedding gown and¨C¡±


    Suddenly, what he was going to say was cut off when Gina interrupted him.


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll pay for my wedding gown, Ace.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be the one to pay Gina, there¡¯s probably no rule that the bride should pay for her wedding gown.¡±


    ¡°Because based on the wedding articles I read, the bride will actually pay for their wedding gowns. Don¡¯t you know, Ace?¡±


    ¡°Why would I know that?¡± he raised his voice. ¡°I wasn¡¯t married before.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, just leave me my wedding gown, I also have enough money to pay for it.¡±


    ¡°But¨C¡±


    ¡°No more buts, Mr. Macho. Just think that you did it in my favor. You will marry me because you want to protect me. Well, the least I can do is pay for it.¡±


    ¡°Uhm.. Gina, if that¡¯s really your dream gown you¡¯re designing, what if the right timees that you¡¯re going to marry the man who¡¯s really for you?¡±


    GINA


    There seemed to be tears in her eyes when Ace said that. Can you let me fantasize about it Ace, even for just a few minutes? she said to herself. She dropped the calendar from its ce. ¡°I¡¯m tired to talk about that. Can we just talk again tomorrow?¡±


    Ace suddenly grabbed both her shoulders, turning her to face him. He lifted her chin, and examined her face. She couldn¡¯t look directly at Ace so instead she just looked out of the corner of his eyes. She tried to keep the tears froming out of her eyes because she didn¡¯t want Ace to see it.


    ¡°And do you think I¡¯ll just leave you here alone?¡± Ace said in a gentle voice. ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you that I will protect you as much as I can. Tomorrow, we will rece the lock on your door and I also have a security system installed here. So don¡¯t worry and just sleep well tonight, because I¡¯m just here and I¡¯ll watch over you. So do you have any objections?¡±


    She just shook her head, being relieved andfortable at the same time. One pressure is removed and one has gained. I hope it¡¯s like this forever, she said to herself.


    ¡°I have a sofa-bed in the other room,¡± that¡¯s all she said. ¡°Wait, I¡¯ll get it for you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay for me to lie down on the couch Gina, so don¡¯t bother anymore. Maybe just give me a pillow and a nket.¡±


    She took the bedding from her closet and started to put the bedding on the sofa where Ace would lie. While she was aware that the man was just looking at her from behind. And after she fixed it, she confronted him.


    ¡°Thank you, Ace.¡±


    Ace just nodded in response.


    ¡°Goodnight.¡±


    ACE


    He followed Gina¡¯s gaze until she entered her room. He just sighed, still fighting his need to take her in his arms, because he knew that at these times Gina really needed someone to lean on.


    He quickly turned off the light in the living room and immediately took from his ankle holster the gun he had ced there. Heid it on the coffee table and covered it with a nket. He went to the window to look around outside.


    The night was getting darker and he thought Gina might be asleep. He was now in front of the door of Gina¡¯s room because he suddenly thought of peeking at the girl while she was sleeping. He carefully turned the door lock to open it. When he continued to open it, he was greeted by the fragrant smell of chamomile and it was so rxing. He just realized that he was already inside Gina¡¯s room.


    GINA


    She felt someone enter her room so she pretended to be asleep. She could also hear the footsteps approaching so she was suddenly nervous especially when he sat on the side of the bed. She pretended to move and changed position. Now she is on her side facing the person sitting on the bed. She slowly opened her eyes and she was right to suspect that Ace had entered her room. She saw that Ace was surprised but he was stiffened in his seat. She got up and caressed his chest up and down, her fingers ying with his tiny nipples while she didn¡¯t take her gaze away from Ace. She followed an imaginary line from his throat to his navel and up to his back. She feels that Ace¡¯s body has hardened even more, probably due to the so-called touch therapy. But she suddenly realized what she was doing and immediately pushed Ace.


    ¡°Who really are you, Ace?¡± She asked in shock.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re asking that.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been spying on you Ace, just after you entered my room.¡± She smiled and continued speaking. ¡°I can¡¯t imagine how hard your body is.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you apply for a model, Ace? You¡¯re blessed with such a yummy body, just like the bodies of the superheroes in the movie.¡± She joked.


    ¡°I am what you see, Gina, and I love what I¡¯m doing.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wrong, Ace.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m telling you right Gina, and don¡¯t look at me like a fantasy hero or the model you fantasize about. How far I am from them, you know that.¡±


    ¡°You know, you¡¯re like a status on facebook, you¡¯re soplicated, that¡¯s just a suggestion to me. Because you have a muscr body so you can apply for a model. You¡¯re a principled person and you seem to know everything, but you¡¯re just contented with what you do and what you are now. Don¡¯t frown at me because it¡¯s not ament but an observation.¡±


    She stopped talking so that Ace could react, but when he still didn¡¯t move, she immediately continued the ambush interview with Ace. ¡°Do you have any goals or dreams in life, Ace? or are you just contented with being a waiter? I think you have a lot more skills.¡± She asked in session as she yed with her fingers in Ace¡¯s hair. OMG! feeling close right away? she said to herself. She swallowed when Ace took her hand and entwined his fingers to hers.


    ¡°I just did what I had to do. So I don¡¯t want to make mistakes in my decisions. Our marriage will be strictly in name only and don¡¯t try to change that, because you¡¯ll only get hurt eventually.¡±


    She let go of Ace hold on her and instead, she teasingly pressed her palm to his hardness.


    ¡°What are you going to do with this?¡± she said in a whisper.


    ¡°I¡¯ll control it.¡± Ace replied and removed her hand. ¡°Go to sleep Gina, and sweet dreams.¡±


    ¡°I know you like me too, Ace.¡±


    ¡°Why? Do you want something to happen?¡± Ace brought his face close to hers.


    ¡°I won¡¯t give up on you, Ace.¡±


    ¡°I hope you respect me too, Gina, and don¡¯t make this difficult for me. My control is limited and I want to keep my conscience clear while we¡¯re together. I¡¯m counting on you that you won¡¯t do that again.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t really understand you, Ace.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s also for your sake, Gina.¡±


    ACEContent ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Gina was speechless at thest thing he said, so he turned his back on her and immediately left the room.


    Hey down on the sofa and forced himself to close his eyes. He kept thinking about what Gina had done to him. He can¡¯t even imagine that she was so aggressive. At least now he knows. ¡°That woman is really venomous.¡± He said to himself. But the truth is, he really likes what Gina does to him.


    *****

 Chapter 9

    GINA


    She is currently watching a television series with her mother and sister who are addicted to such shows. They were focused on what they were watching so she just watched it until the end. The three of them have more to talk about because of her surprising statement earlier.


    FLASHBACK


    When she returned to their house, she found her sister and mother crying while watching the television series. She finished the momentum between the two before she entered the scene. When her mother noticed her, she immediately greeted her with a hug.


    ¡°Gina, how are you? Janice and I miss you so much,¡± her mother said weing her.


    ¡°Sis,¡± Janice said who suddenly stood up.


    But when she saw Janice her eyes widened.


    ¡°What does this mean, Janice?¡±


    ¡°Sis, I¡¯m so sorry,¡± her sister said, sobbing.


    ¡°Mom, why are you keeping it a secret from me?¡±


    ¡°Gina, we have no ns to hide your sister¡¯s condition from you, we just waited for you toe here so we can talk to you in person. That¡¯s why we let youe home on Valentines day,¡± her mother exined.


    ¡°But you still shouldn¡¯t hide it from me. How many months has your pregnancy been, Jan? And who got you pregnant?¡±


    ¡°Six months, and Payton is the child¡¯s father.¡± Janice said crying.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you and Payton split up? how about your study, Jan?¡±


    ¡°Payton and I got back together, and since the school closing is also near, I¡¯ll just continue this semester. Payton also promised me that he will marry me and I will go back to study after I give birth.¡±


    She sighed and continued speaking.


    ¡°And you believe in him, Jan?¡±


    ¡°Yes sis,¡± she still didn¡¯t stop crying so their mother just hugged her.


    She felt sorry for her sister and was also worried because the child might be affected. If they used to cry over the television drama series they were watching, but now it¡¯s reality.


    ¡°Okay that¡¯s enough Jan, stop crying. I¡¯m just shocked¡­ we can no longer do anything about that. Just remember that mama and I, love you and we¡¯re just here for you.¡± The three of them hugged tightly.


    ¡°Thank you for understanding your sister, Gina,¡± her mother said.


    ¡°Thank you so much sis, and I¡¯m sorry too because I preceded you.¡± Janice joked to her.


    The three of them justughed at what Janice said and she suddenly remembered the reason for her going to their house.


    ¡°Mom, Jan, I have something to tell you, too.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± her mother asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m getting married.¡±


    At the same time, the jaws of her sister and mother dropped.


    When they recovered from the shock, her mother immediately asked.


    ¡°Is that true, Gina?¡± her mother stammered.


    She nodded. ¡°Yes, Ma.¡±


    She saw her mother almost in tears but Janice immediately took her on her shoulders and caressed her back. She seemed to want to retract what she had said when her mother¡¯s tears began to fall.


    She approached and hugged her tofort her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ma. I didn¡¯t know you wouldn¡¯t like¨C¡±


    ¡°Why are you so impulsive? First, Janice said she¡¯s pregnant and second, you¡¯re the one who said you¡¯re getting married.¡±


    ¡°Are you pregnant too, Gina? So all of a sudden you¡¯re getting married?¡± her mother asked tearfully.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Please don¡¯t get married hurriedly. Sooner orter this sister of yours will also get married. So you will leave me, too?¡±


    It was as if her chest tightened at what her mother said because she knew how it felt. It¡¯s scary to be alone. She even remembers when her mother cried when her father passed away. Theyforted their mother because of her incessant crying and promised that they would never leave her.


    ¡°Ma, I¡¯m still here.¡± Janice interrupted the conversation and caressed their mother¡¯s back. ¡°Ma, let Gina get married. Aren¡¯t you d that she finally had a love life?¡±


    She red at Janice because she even got annoyed.


    ¡°Who are you going to marry, Gina?¡±


    ¡°Ace Durant,¡± she replied.


    Janice eyes widened at the sound. Because she knows how much she likes Ace.


    ¡°Is Ace the one you¡¯re marrying, sis?¡±


    ¡°No one else, Janice.¡±


    ¡°Ace, is that what you always tell me about Janice, your sister¡¯s handsome co -worker?¡±


    ¡°Jan, what are you saying to mama?¡±


    Janice just signed peace with her. Janice and Gina are so close, so she also confesses about Ace and how she feels about the man. What she didn¡¯t expect was that Janice would also tell their mother.


    ¡°That¡¯s why Gina, I told Janice to let the man you¡¯re crazy about toe here on Valentine¡¯s Day, so that I can meet him. Payton also came here.¡±


    ¡°Really, Ma?¡±


    ¡°You really love that man, am I right?¡±


    She nodded and slowly saw her mother smiling.


    ¡°I am happy for both of you, even if I stop the two of you from getting married, I will be a stingy mother if I deprive you of your own happiness.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ma.¡± The siblings chanted and hugged their mother at the same time.


    END OF FLASHBACK


    ¡°Come on Jan, tell me what¡¯s on your mind.¡±


    ¡°How did you hide it from us, sis? We didn¡¯t even know you had a boyfriend, we didn¡¯t even hear that you and Ace were dating and then you told us now that you¡¯re getting married.¡±


    ¡°Because everything happens so fast, Jan.¡±


    ¡°But a wedding in one month? Why are you in a hurry sis? Can you prepare for a month?¡±


    ¡°If only I could do that, Jan.¡±


    ¡°Tell me the truth sis, are you pregnant?¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    her sister asked in curiosity.


    She justughed at her sister¡¯s suspicion.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll take your smile as a NO. So why don¡¯t you just hire a wedding coordinator? You can¡¯t do it all. You have a lot more to consider.¡±


    ¡°All right.. all right.¡± She agreed with her sister¡¯s suggestion. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to prepare for Janice, Ace and I just had a simple wedding.¡±


    ¡°Are we going to invite all our rtives? Of course you¡¯re the first to marry among all our cousins.¡±


    Her first thought about her sister¡¯s question is if their rtives should really be invited.


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s just our close friends, Jan. I can¡¯t imagine that all our rtives were invited. I hope papa is still here.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure papa is happy for you, too.¡±


    ¡°I miss him so much.¡±


    ¡°Me too sis, I miss papa, too, if only his car hadn¡¯t exploded.¡± Janice said crying.


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for me, maybe papa would still be here.¡± She med herself.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault what happened to papa sis, it was really an ident.¡± Janice hugged her tightly.


    JANICE


    She and Gina were shocked when her baby kicked hard. Her sister also felt it because they hugged.


    ¡°Oh, here it is sis, feel this.¡± She took Gina¡¯s hand and ced it on her stomach. It¡¯s one of the precious moments they shared together, then suddenly she asked her sister. ¡°Sis, have you ever had intimate moments with Ace?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    She didn¡¯t think that her sister was even surprised by her question. ¡°Sis, you¡¯re so naive and innocent, you know.¡±


    She could see that her sister¡¯s forehead was furrowed, so it meant that she understood what she wanted to convey.


    ¡°If you mean that Ace and I had sex, well not yet. Unless we¡¯re married.¡±


    ¡°OMG sister! Are you serious? Why isn¡¯t anything happening to you yet?¡±


    ¡°Ace wants that. So I respect his decision.¡±


    Sheughed out loud at what her sister confessed, because she didn¡¯t expect her answer. Their mother then entered her room because she might also be intrigued by the sound of herughter. ¡°What happened here and you seem happy?¡± Asked their mother.


    ¡°Nothing, Ma. Gina and I just had fun.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll leave you now, Janice¡¯sughter is so contagious,¡± said their mother and turned her back on them.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to tell Payton about the weakness of my sister¡¯s future husband.¡±


    ¡°Try it, Janice.¡± her sister threatened. ¡°Because I will cut your allowance.¡±


    ¡°This is priceless, sis. I know how much you really like the super hot Ace. I really can¡¯t believe it. You know I still remember the first time you were heartbroken by Ace. You said that you were always together in the restaurant but not once did he even pay attention to you. Then you found out that he had dated a hotel heiress. Who is it, by the way? Oh, I remember now she¡¯s the famous supermodel today, Ariana Lin.¡±


    ¡°Are you annoying me, Jan?¡± her sister said with a frown.


    ¡°Did you know that when Ist visited you at the restaurant, I really teased Ace to admit about his rtionship with Ariana, and I also asked him if Ariana was his type to marry. And do you know what her answer is?¡±


    ¡°What did he answer you?¡±


    ¡°He told me that he doesn¡¯t want to get married like Ariana Lin because he wants that conservative woman. Oh my, it looks like he was referring to you before.¡±


    GINA


    ¡°You talk a lot.¡± she said automatically and theyughed again, but only her mind wandered with curiosity. She thought deeply. So maybe Ace suggested her a marriage of convenience because he wanted her to stay pure, so that it wouldn¡¯t make him feel guilty to leave her in case they split up. But whatever that meant to him, for him she would still be true to their marriage and she would still be true to being his wife.


    ¡ª¨C


    ¡°We need to talk, Ace.¡± She said after Ace exined to her the newly installed security system in her house.


    ¡°Let¡¯s sit down first, Gina.¡±


    Ace waited for her to sit down before he sat down in front of her.


    ¡°Coward,¡± she said softly.


    ¡°What are you trying to say, Gina?¡±


    ¡°Janice noticed that there was something  wrong between us.¡±


    ¡°In what way?¡±


    ¡°As if she can¡¯t believe our sudden marriage, you¡¯re not that loving boyfriend she said.¡±


    ¡°Why? Does he want us to kiss in front of her so that he will believe more? Tell her that we are not as showy as the others.¡±


    ¡°Because I told her nothing was happening to us yet, so maybe she justughed at me now.¡±


    ACE


    ¡°Why did you tell her that? And now I should be publicly affectionate with you, like that?¡± he asked sarcastically, watching her tap her foot against the floor.


    ¡°You¡¯re the only one who wants us to be true to all this, aren¡¯t you?¡± Gina is seemingly defensive to answer him.


    ¡°Okay. If I have to do that, then I will do it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t do too much Ace, because Janice will notice that, too.¡±


    ¡°Do you have anything else to say, Gina?¡±


    ¡°W-won¡¯t you ask me Ace, if I¡¯m still a virgin?¡±


    *****

 Chapter 10

    ACE


    The words shocked him speechless and he didn¡¯t know where Gina¡¯s question wasing from.


    ¡°I¡¯m no longer a virgin, Ace.¡± She said.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be a virgin,¡± he said honestly.


    He got up from his seat and immediately took his jacket before he went to the exit door. Gina followed him and spoke continuously.


    ¡°We can sleep together.¡± Gina said without hesitation.


    ¡°What do you mean, Gina?¡±


    ¡°I mean, we can consummate our marriage.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about those things,¡± he stammered.


    ¡°Is that why you want us not to share a room when we get married because you think I¡¯m still innocent of those things? Or maybe you think I¡¯ll just give myself to my ¡®real¡¯ husband in the future?¡±


    He was still unmoved by what Gina was telling him and instead he continued to walk. Gina, on the other hand, continued to tail him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about it.¡±


    ¡°Then why can¡¯t we sleep together? We can be adults about it.¡± Gina was still following him.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    He stopped walking and faced Gina.


    ¡°Like hell if we sleep together Gina, I might not be able to control myself and I also don¡¯t want anyone to mediate between the two of us because it will be difficult for us to get annulled.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think we can live together and not make love, Ace.¡±


    ¡°I can.¡± He answered firmly.


    ¡°You¡¯re a better man than I am, Gunga Din.¡±


    ¡°What the hell is that supposed to mean, Gina?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know? That¡¯s a famous quote by Rudyard Kipling.¡±


    ¡°I know who said that. I just don¡¯t know what you mean by that.¡± He replied to the girl.


    He was about to leave Gina¡¯s house when the girl suddenly blocked him at the door. ¡°What¡¯s the matter with you, Gina?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing, but you¡¯re so annoying.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± He stepped closer to Gina. ¡°Come here.¡±


    He held the girl¡¯s waist close to him and hugged her tightly so that Gina could not move. However, he feels she felt good in his arms. Too good. He was losing control now, he rested his cheek against her hair, felt her fingers dig into his back and he couldn¡¯t deny to himself that he liked Gina¡¯s simple touch.


    ¡°Sweetie,¡± he said soothingly. ¡°It¡¯s all right. We can do it.¡±


    GINA


    ¡°I¡¯m not that hard to be with Ace,¡± she said finally, rxing against him. So she hugged the man even tighter. Then, she rubbed her cheeks against his shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s just that twenty-four hours ago, my life is simple. I¡¯ve mastered my daily routine and in an instant, everything¡¯s turned upside down and it¡¯s not that easy to adjust.¡±


    ¡°Just leave it all to me, Gina, be worry free, okay?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t help but worry about my safety, Ace.¡±


    ¡°I know, Gina. That¡¯s why I put a security system in your house for your safety. I have to go home first because I have a lot of other things to do.¡±


    She pushed Ace away from her. ¡°I don¡¯t understand your intentions, Ace. But what can you really get out of helping me?¡±


    ¡°Just think that I¡¯m a good samaritan, Gina.¡± Ace replied and he went straight out of her house.


    ¡°Oh, I forgot to tell you that someone sent you a gift at the restaurant.¡± He turned back.


    ¡°Brando sent me again?¡±


    ¡°Brando?¡± Ace asked her in disbelief.


    ¡°Yes, it is Brando.¡±


    Ace didn¡¯t answer her and instead turned his back on her, leaving her with even more questions. Sometimes she really wonders about that man.


    She quickly chased after Ace because she still had something to ask. And when she reached him, she immediately asked. ¡°Why did you call me sweetie earlier? I know you don¡¯t like endearments.¡±


    ¡°What now if I called you sweetie? Oh, don¡¯t take that seriously. I called my favorite dog that, too.


    ¡ª¨C


    ACE


    From outside the door of the restaurant he could immediately hear Gina¡¯s voice singing as she set the dining tables.


    He just quietly walked to the counter. Gina called him almost ten more times that day but he didn¡¯t answer her calls. He didn¡¯t even return her calls. At least he saw her wearing the ne and his worries were relieved.


    Since he and Gina arrived early, he thought of approaching her first. ¡°Hi,¡± he started, but the girl still didn¡¯t say a word to him and instead just gave him a frugal smile. He was disgusted with what Gina was showing him now. ¡°How¡¯s your day today, Gina?¡± He asked with his arms crossed.


    ¡°Busy. It¡¯s tiring. I¡¯m doing a lot of things right now. I went to the wedding coordinator earlier that Janice referred me and then I also canvassed the wedding shops where I can sew my wedding gown.¡±


    ¡°Include me in your ns.¡±


    Her eyes widened at what he said. ¡°Really? I didn¡¯t realize that.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m getting married too, Gina.¡±


    ¡°I think¨C¡±


    ¡°Shssh..¡± He put a finger to her lips, then bent closer to her. ¡°We¡¯ll talk about thister at your house.¡±


    ¡°When are we going to tell this to our colleagues?¡±


    ¡°Now, Brando has a reservation tonight and don¡¯t worry because he already knows. So, now we¡¯ll tell our colleagues because Brando might ask them more about it.¡±


    ¡°How did Brando know that?¡±


    ¡°I told him when I returned the gift he gave you.¡±


    ¡°What was his reaction?¡±


    He justughed. He can¡¯t tell Gina that he doesn¡¯t believe in their quick marriage. And even more, he can¡¯t tell Gina that he often sees Brando because of their business transaction. ¡°He just wished us well,¡± he said.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe what he¡¯s saying, Ace.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you even answer my call, Gina?¡± He changed the topic.


    GINA


    She bes conscious when Ace looks at her gently, because her knees became soft every time they stare at each other. ¡°I was busy earlier and my phone was still in silent mode.¡±


    It¡¯s only now that she seems to be staring straight at Ace closely, so she admires his handsomeness even more.


    ¡°Next time, please return my call so I don¡¯t worry too much about you.¡±


    ¡°All right,¡± she murmured. ¡°But if you really want to join my n, we should talk about our guest list first so we can order wedding invitations.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s better that we just talk about it again tonight when we go out, because I also have something to be discussed with you.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­ Uhm Ace, are you free tomorrow? I would like you to help me paint my second room.¡±


    ¡°Sure, if you¡¯re nning that I will be the one to upy that room after our wedding, make sure we don¡¯t paint pink there.¡±


    ¡°All right, but are you sure it¡¯s okay for us to stay at my house?¡±


    ¡°Yes Gina, I¡¯ve already decided that. Because I only have one room in my apartment.¡±


    That¡¯s good, Gina said to herself.


    ¡°Judge Soler has a reservation tonight, can we just ask him to officiate at our wedding?¡± Ace asked her as if he was also asking for her approval.


    ¡°Will he agree?¡± She asked him back.


    ¡°We will ask himter.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I think it¡¯s a good idea too, since we know him as one of our handsome loyal customers.¡±


    ¡°Handsome? He¡¯s so old.¡±


    She smiled at what Ace said, because she knew he would really react.


    ¡°He looks young when you look at him, if it weren¡¯t for his white hair, he would still be mistaken as early forties. And one more thing, it would be a great honor for me to allow him to be our wedding officiator. I heard that he¡¯s one of the most respected judges in our country.¡±


    She noticed that there was dirt on Ace clothes so she wiped it with her hand. But she was suddenly surprised by what Ace did, because he kissed the hand she used to wipe.


    She held her breath for a minute because Ace¡¯s kiss on her hand had an effect on her. ¡°Who among our colleagues can we make a witness?¡±


    ¡°Jigs and Ruby.¡± Ace replied quickly. They are their close colleagues at the restaurant.


    She was shocked when Ace kissed her hand again. He also stared at her without blinking, which seemed to make her even more confused. Ruby arrived just in time and even saw Ace kissed on her hand.


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s the kissing of the hand all about?¡± Ruby teased them.


    She just smiled at Ruby as if she was dumbfounded when herpanion arrived. She thought that Ace might have seen Rubying so he tried to kiss her hand again so that Ruby could see it exactly. Maybe Ace meant it so that they wouldn¡¯t have a hard time exining to them.


    *****

 Chapter 11

    GINA


    That night was perfect. Their colleagues have already found out about their uing wedding. Their co-workers offered handshakes, hugs and deafening good wishes, even though they were surprised at first because they knew that she and Ace are like dogs and cats who are always teasing and fighting. Judge Soler also agreed to officiate at their wedding. Brando Nics canceled his reservation tonight. The restaurant was about to close when Maryam arrived.


    ¡°I¡¯m really sorry if I just arrived. I was stuck in the shop yesterday and now with so much work, I haven¡¯t been able to go home.¡± Maryam exined to her.


    ¡°So you slept in the shop?¡± she immediately asked Maryam.


    ¡°Yes dear, I¡¯ve never been able to give up control of my business. No matter how many people I hire to take charge of, I still follow up on things myself.¡± Maryam said with a shrug. ¡°I have lots of orders this week, and I think it¡¯s going to be our best year ever. But I¡¯m sure you¡¯re more interested in what happened with Brando. I¡¯m really worried about you Gina, so I¡¯m here to say hello to you. He told me he didn¡¯t expect you toe back that day. In fact, he almost seemed to be expecting me instead of you.¡±


    ¡°What was his reaction when I didn¡¯te back? Was he angry?¡±


    ¡°He was edgy, but not rude. We spent an hour together, then we parted ways and he didn¡¯t say anything about you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much, Maryam.¡±


    She turned to Ace direction while he was still talking to Judge Soler. Ace now turned to them, approached their position and put his arm around her. ¡°Have you told Maryam yet?¡± Ace asked her.


    ¡°Not yet.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that you two are getting married.¡± Maryam eximed, looking from one to the other.


    ¡°Yes, Maryam. It will be a small wedding, but of course you are invited.¡± She said and Maryam hugged her.


    Maryam also kissed Ace on his cheek. ¡°I¡¯ll be happier if your wedding venue is held at my house.¡± Maryam offered them. ¡°I have arge garden at home, and I also have a function room. It will hold fifty peoplefortably. Is that enough?¡±


    ¡°But Mar¨C¡± Maryam interrupted what she was about to say.


    ¡°Unless you¡¯re having a church wedding, then of course I¡¯ll expect more than fifty people of your invited guests.¡±


    She hardly thought that their marriage of convenience wasn¡¯t worthy of such a setting.


    ¡°I¡¯ll arrange everything for you. All you need to do is show up. Call me tomorrow and we¡¯ll get together. Oh! I¡¯m so happy for both of you. Two of my most favorite people in the world. I won¡¯t take no for an answer.¡±


    She felt Ace squeeze her hand when she would have protested further. ¡°All right¡­ all right,¡± and she justughed. ¡°That¡¯s why Maryam you¡¯re sessful in your business. Ahm¡­ Maryam do you know Judge Soler? He will officiate at our wedding.¡±


    ¡°We know each other well.¡± The Judge said to them. ¡°How are you, Maryam?¡±


    ¡°Very well, Johnny. And you?¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡±


    She watched the tension sparking between the two. The Judge¡¯s voice was low, soft and rxed. Yet his eyes held such intensity as he stared into Maryam. He noticed that Maryam was blushing at the Judge¡¯s stares at her.


    ¡°Just call me, Gina. I need to go. Goodnight, Johnny.¡±


    ¡°Take care, Maryam,¡± replied the Judge and Maryam left the restaurant.


    He cares about her, that¡¯s what she realized at that time, also based on the expression of the Judge¡¯s face.


    ¡°Judge Soler, thank you again for agreeing to marry us.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my honor and privilege, my dear.¡± The Judge replied to her, he kissed her on the cheek and shook hands with Ace. ¡°Thank you for asking me.¡± And the Judge said goodbye to them.


    ¡°I know Judge Soler likes Maryam,¡± she said to Ace as soon as the Judge left. ¡°You know Ace, that¡¯s what I¡¯ve noticed about Judge Soler, that he likes Maryam. Because every time they eat together at the restaurant, Judge¡¯s eyes are always on Maryam.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mess with them, Gina.¡±


    ¡°Did you notice them too, Ace? Hmp.. if I know you notice them too, you just don¡¯t want to admit it.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, it¡¯s none of our business, Gina.¡±


    They are now walking to their locker room to get dressed.


    ¡°Gina, from now on I would like.. ahm.. let¡¯s go home together and go to work together, if it¡¯s ok with you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really good at changing the topic, Ace,¡± he justughed at her. ¡°But sure, I think that would be great¡­ why are you hesitant to ask me, you think maybe I won¡¯t agree? You know even if you don¡¯t ask, one hundred and one percent I agree.¡±


    ¡°I know you¡¯ll agree¡­ all right, we¡¯ll only meet in the parking lot.¡± He said, and then they entered into a separate locker room.


    ¡ª¨C


    ACE


    ¡°Is that really your guest? Why is it so small?¡± Ginained to him when she looked at what was written on his guest list.


    They sat a couple of feet apart on the sofa, while they drank wine. ¡°If you just want to be able to add that, then it¡¯s okay with me. I really don¡¯t have any guests.¡±


    ¡°Me too. It¡¯s just my family and some close rtives, then my close friends at school.¡±


    ¡°How about your ex-boyfriends? Aren¡¯t you going to invite any of them?¡±


    ¡°I told you before, that I haven¡¯t had a serious rtionship.¡±


    ¡°Those who divirginized you, haven¡¯t you been serious too?¡±


    He saw Gina blush at his question. ¡°I thought you didn¡¯t want us to talk about such a thing.¡±


    ¡°I was just thinking. But if you want us to talk about something like that, then I¡¯m willing to listen.¡±


    Gina didn¡¯t speak anymore. She went silent  for a moment.


    ¡°Forget it.¡± and he put the wine ss on the table. ¡°What else do we need, Gina?¡±


    ¡°We haven¡¯t decided on the time of the wedding yet, but we¡¯re done with the flowers we¡¯re going to use, uhm.. and of course the food menu.¡± She replied.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t answered my first question to you, Gina. I¡¯ll admit, you really got my curiosity.¡±


    ¡°What do you want to know? How many times? How big the¨C¡±


    ¡°Stop!¡±


    ¡°¨CI mean how big their feet are.¡±


    ¡°Funny.¡±


    ¡°Well Ace, I don¡¯t know what kind of information you¡¯re looking for. Based on the books I read about sex, it was earth-shattering.¡±


    ¡°Why, haven¡¯t you experienced a climax yet?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I experienced that too,¡± she said, and she sipped a ss of wine. ¡°It looks like that, too.¡±


    He saw that Gina¡¯s gaze was already on him. ¡°You know Ace, we don¡¯t have anything to talk about, so I¡¯d suggest you abandon the topic.¡±


    He wished that he¡¯d never brought up the topic to her because he was already upset. Also, his body was really hot from Gina¡¯s clothes. She is now wearing a thin t-shirt and he notices that she is not wearing a bra. Also, he almost acknowledged this moment as hisst chance to back out, which would certainly please his boss. His boss said that it was possible for him to be pulled out of his assignment if there was still no development in their negotiations with Brando. Fortunately, he finally agreed with thetter because if he didn¡¯t, he would be saying goodbye to Gina.


    He got up from the couch he was sitting on and put on his leather jacket.


    ¡°Are you leaving? I thought we were going to talk more about the wedding.¡± Gina said.


    He then remembered that he was given hisst chance. So he took a small box from his pocket and handed it to Gina.


    ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°I think you need to wear an engagement ring,¡± he said and took one of Gina¡¯s hands. ¡°My grandmother gave this to me. I said I¡¯ll let my fianc¨¦ wear it.¡±


    Gina was amazed when he put a brilliant-cut diamond ring on her finger surrounded by deep blue sapphires shaped like daisy petals. ¡°Oh, Ace.¡±


    For a moment, their stares locked each other. ¡°Ace, I can¡¯t¡­ I mean I can¡¯t ept this,¡± she took off the ring and returned it to him.


    ¡°Why not? It¡¯s for you.¡±


    ¡°But¨C¡± he interrupted, because he knew Gina would reject that.


    ¡°Wear that, please.¡±


    He saw Gina close her eyes and let out a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯d be honored if you would still let me wear this even if¨C¡±


    ¡°Shh¡­¡± he reached for her left hand, then slid again the ring on her finger, finding a perfect fit.


    Gina just looked at the ring she was wearing and what he saw in the girl¡¯s eyes seemed to make her really happy.


    ¡°Why is this sapphire attached to the band? Instead of a diamond?¡± Gina asked curiously.


    ¡°He loves me,¡± he replied.


    ¡°What did you say?¡±


    ¡°Maybe you know this Gina, back to your elementary days, I know you already know this.¡±


    ¡°Which one?¡±


    ¡°Remember the flower petals? When you have a crush, you even say, ¡®He loves me, he loves me not¡¯. There are all seven petals, so it will always end up ¡®He loves me.¡±


    ¡°Whoa! That¡¯s sweet. Your grandfather is very romantic. But I don¡¯t think I¡¯m the one who deserves to wear this.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a beautiful woman, Gina, and for me you deserve to wear that.¡±


    He stayed there at Gina¡¯s house for up to an hour because they were still discussing the details of their wedding. He also noticed that Gina always stared at the ring she was wearing, so he thought of giving it to her. He had no intention of giving the ring to her because he knew that ring has  a sentimental value. But his father insisted that he just give it to Gina instead of buying a new one. After all, he will marry Gina. The woman he¡¯d been attracted to beyond the physical. It¡¯s just that he can¡¯t enter into a real rtionship because it¡¯s a burden on his job. It¡¯s not hard to fall in love with Gina, so he¡¯s afraid to get close to the girl. He never thought of having a family of his own. That¡¯s one of the reasons he¡¯d been assigned to this job because apart from being one of the best agents in their agency, he was alsock of attachments. But now, he had this so-called an ¡®achilles heel¡¯ and Brando Nics knew about it.


    He knew there was really doubt in Brando¡¯s eyes when he said that he and Gina were getting married. Although, he is no longer afraid that Brando will use Gina for his personal happiness because all he knows is that Brando is not dating a married woman. Even so, he was still worried about what might happen, because he knew that Brando would still use her against him. That¡¯s why Gina had to be guarded and protected, because by the time Brando found out his identity, she would be the first one that Brando went after. And he will never let that happen.


    He saw that Gina is yawning, so he thought of letting her rest. ¡°Gina, I think I need to leave now.¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Before he left, he first helped Gina to put away the food they had eaten. While Gina was soaping the tes and sses, he was the one who rinsed the dishes.


    ¡°Are you tired?¡± He whispered close to the girl¡¯s ear.


    ¡°Uhm¡­ yes, but I can¡¯t fall asleep right after work.¡±


    ¡°So what else are you doing at this time?¡±


    Gina let out a deep breath, he in turn stepped closer to the girl and he met her gaze.


    ¡°It depends.¡± Gina replied. ¡°Sometimes I sew, or maybe I do an assignment, sometimes I write, too. Ace, have I already told you about the magazine article I¡¯m writing?¡±


    He could no longer hear thest thing Gina said to him because his attention was now distracted by the view in front of him. ¡°You¡¯re driving me crazy,¡± out of his mind he said.


    Gina approached him and pressed her body to him. ¡°What did I do?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re distracting me, because you¡¯re not wearing a bra. You know that¡¯s all I¡¯ve been staring at all night.¡±


    Gina touched both of his cheeks and caressed them. ¡°Then kiss me.¡±


    He just shook his head.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just practice, Ace.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have to practice anymore, Gina, I had plenty of it.¡±


    GINA


    She hated every woman he¡¯d ever touched. Kissed and pleasured. She can¡¯t stand it. ¡°I mean we need that. What if the judge says ¡®you may now kiss the bride¡¯ don¡¯t we really need to kiss? maybe I don¡¯t know how to meet that kiss of yours.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, sweetie, I know what I¡¯m going to do.¡±


    ¡°You know, you are the most strong-willed man I¡¯ve ever met.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just a man. Like any other man.¡±


    ¡°Then show me, just touch me for a minute.¡± She said without hesitation. ¡°Somewhere. Anywhere. Just for a minute, please.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 12

    ACE


    She came into his arms as if born to be there. He felt her shiver, heard her moan his name softly and her arms tightened around him as she came closer.


    ¡°You feel so good,¡± she whispered. ¡°So right.¡±


    He put one hand inside Gina¡¯s top and caressed her breast. He spread his other hand across her back, massaging her.


    He pulled himself away for a moment to look into Gina¡¯s closed eyes. He needs to stop this now¡­ right now. But instead of stopping, his hands covered her breast again. This time her moan became loud and uncontrolled, piercing him, burning him while Gina burying her sharp nails at his back. He pressed her against the kitchen sink, and ced her between his thighs. He felt too good. Too damn good. Stop. His conscience stopped him. He really needs to realize that what he is doing is wrong.


    ¡°Kiss me. Oh, please. Kiss me,¡± her words were like ice water, a chilly reminder of their tenuous bncing act of fantasy and reality. How could he watch over her, to keep her safe, and do his own jobpletely ¨C if he let his emotions lead the way?


    Damn it! What was he doing? What had he done?


    He backed away and distanced himself from Gina, he closed his eyes for a moment, unwilling to face her. He quickly took off his leather jacket and quickly went to the door to go out. He only stopped when Gina suddenly said a word to him.


    ¡°Thank you for letting me wear your grandmother¡¯s engagement ring,¡± she called softly. ¡°Promise, I¡¯ll take care of this.¡± She said, and he left Gina¡¯s house quickly.


    ¡ª¨C


    He was now looking out the window as he watched the heavy downpour outside. He thought that this might be one of the signs that his marriage with Gina would not continue. He looked at his watch again.


    ¡°It was only thirty seconds when youst looked at your watch,¡± Judge Soler told him.


    Maryam offered him to sit down first because he had been walking for a while and was restless. Along with him waiting for the bride are Gina¡¯s mother and Payton ¨C Janice¡¯s boyfriend, who also stands as his best man. He also noticed that everyone is calm except him.


    ¡°I¡¯d hate to see you before your execution.¡± Judge Solermented to him.


    ¡°I think an execution is even less stressful,¡± he replied to the Judge.


    The wedding scenario now enters his mind and he will only be reassured when Gina arrives. In fact, he can¡¯t hardly wait for that day toe even though he knows that his marriage to Gina is off-limits. It may be difficult for him to be publicly affectionate with her but it is even more difficult for him to wait for more than thirty minutes on the day of their wedding. Since one of the past nights when he almost lost control of himself, he couldn¡¯t talk to Gina much because he really meant to distance himself from her.


    Tension was his constantpanion. Last night during their rehearsal, she was even angry with him. He would have given her a ne that she would wear on their wedding day. But the only thing he didn¡¯t expect was that she would be angry with him, because he thought she would be happy with the gift he would give. Worst, she walked out of their rehearsal.


    That was how they¡¯d left things between them. And now Gina is more than thirty minuteste for their wedding. He called her earlier but he couldn¡¯t contact her. He also called Janice but she didn¡¯t answer either, so he wondered if the girl really had a n toe to their wedding. He also thought that Gina might have just taken too long to fix herself. He even imagined her wearing her dream gown.


    He just reminded himself why they were doing this, and that was to protect Gina against Brando Nics. It has be more difficult for him now to negotiate with Brando since thetter found out that he and Gina will be getting married. Brando exerted his power at every opportunity. He, on the other hand, just obeys his wishes first, because he worked hard for a few months just to get his set-up deal if he agreed to it.


    ¡°She won¡¯t back out.¡± Judge Soler said, patting his shoulder.


    ¡°I¡¯m not worried.¡±


    ¡°Every groom worries. There are few moments in a man¡¯s life when he is more vulnerable than this one.¡±


    He frowned at what the Judge said. ¡°Sometimes women are hard to spell.¡±


    ¡°Just trust your instinct.¡±


    ¡°Is that still going to work?¡±


    ¡°To some yes, to some no,¡± Judge Soler replied, smiling.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Maryam?¡±


    Instead of answering his question, the Judge looked at his watch. ¡°I think I¡¯ll just check my other schedule. I¡¯ll be right back.¡± Judge Soler immediately excused himself.


    When the Judge turned away, he immediately let out a deep breath. It was almost an hour before Gina arrived.


    ¡ª¨C


    GINA


    ¡°I think I¡¯ll have a fever.¡± She said while holding her forehead.


    ¡°Come on, sis, it¡¯s like you¡¯re sentenced to life imprisonment for what you¡¯re doing now.¡± Janice said. ¡°Just chill.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for your sympathy.¡±


    ¡°Why do you need sympathy? You¡¯re going to marry the person you love, aren¡¯t you? And now you¡¯re wearing your dream wedding gown. Then your friend Maryam hired a wedding coordinator, so that everything could be arranged. You have nothing more to ask for, sis.¡±


    ¡°You know Janice, you talk now like Mama Joy.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been so dizzy with you a while ago, you¡¯ve been walking back and forth. Then your face is tense. Just smile, sis, be happy, because I¡¯m happy to see you¡¯re happy.¡± Janice said and was about to leave.


    ¡°Where are you going? Are you leaving me?¡±


    ¡°Even if we¡¯rete, I will never leave you. I have to go to the bathroom.¡±


    ¡°Again?¡±


    ¡°When you¡¯re pregnant, you¡¯ll understand.¡±


    She knew she waste so she deliberately turned off the cellphone so that Ace would also remember her. She has been uneasy for three weeks, she is confused if she made the right decision. For the past three weeks, it seems that Ace treatment to her has been cold. She would have wanted to discuss it a lot more but he seems to be moving away from her. Last night, when Ace was supposed to give her the ne, she was really angry because she thought he was giving it to her with all his heart, but she was disappointed when Ace told her that it was just one of his list of responsibilities.


    FLASHBACK


    ¡°What list are you talking about?¡± She asked Ace angrily.


    ¡°I just read that in Bride Magazine.¡± Ace exined, and took from his pocket a page of the magazine on which the list of responsibilities of the groom was written. And because of it, that¡¯s why he gave her a ne.


    END OF FLASHBACK


    All she wanted was to talk to the man seriously before their wedding day. She needed his calmness right now, and she needed his assurance that they were doing what was necessary and right. She remembered the days when they were just nning their wedding right at her house.


    But at least her gown matched her dream wedding gown. She is now wearing acy white off-the-shoulder gown that really fits her body shape. Between designing the gown and meeting the deadline for her magazine article, she hadn¡¯t a second to breathe. No wonder why she is tense now. She deserved a honeymoon break more, so she could rx. Too bad she¡¯s only getting one, just one night at a honeymoon suite in an elegant hotel that Payton and Janice gifted them. And of course they can¡¯t refuse the pregnant woman, because that will make her mad. Anyway, Payton will be the one to pay, because hees from a rich family. Yet, another night of tension.


    Meanwhile, the wedding coordinator has now entered their hotel room and has already prepared. ¡°Ma¡¯am here we go, your wedding car is already there. The wedding car was so dyed because of the heavy rain and flood, there was too much traffic,¡± her wedding coordinator said and handed her the very beautiful bouquet.


    ¡°Your Groom chose these flowers himself,¡± she said with a smile.


    Gina immediately took her bouquet. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s beautiful. Just beautiful.¡± She smelled the fragrance of the flowers.


    Tears welled up in her eyes because she knew that Ace had just followed his list of responsibilities, and it wasn¡¯t really from his heart.


    ¡°Wait Ma¡¯am, there¡¯s a note attached.¡± The wedding coordinator handed her the note she was saying.


    ¡°Here it is.¡±


    Sheid the bouquet of flowers on the table and opened the sealed note.


    Georgina,


    The gardenias represent joy, the stephanotis wish for us happiness, and the baby¡¯s breath honors a pure heart. These are you, as I see you.


    ¨C Ace


    ¡°Oh.¡± she whispered. How could he have written them? Maybe he was just dictated by someone else.


    ¡°What¡¯s that, sis?¡± Janice asked as she came back into the room. She took the note from her hand and read it.


    ¡°Whoa! It¡¯s Ace, sis. He is so sweet. But don¡¯t cry, your make up will be ruined.¡± Janice said. ¡°Sis, in the next few minutes you will be walking down the aisle.¡± Janice said and hugged her. ¡°You can also breathe easy after this, sis. Isn¡¯t this really your dream? To marry the man you love the most.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± She answered for sure. ¡°Yes, this is really my dream.¡±


    Janice took her bouquet. ¡°You know sis, you are the most beautiful bride I have ever seen. Especially when you are smiling. So be happy, sis, today is your wedding day.¡±


    She smiled at what her sister said. She thinks Janice is right, she should be happy because she loves the man she is going to marry. She took a deep breath first.


    Now, she was ready. More than ready.


    *****

 Chapter 13

    WEDDING DAY


    ACE


    There she goes walking down the aisle. Gina is really beautiful in her wedding gown, she looks like a goddess. She looked so amazing and she¡¯s taking his breath away. He thought she would nevere to their wedding, but here she is now, walking towards where he is.


    In a few seconds his bride was in front of him. He first kissed Gina¡¯s mom and then took her hands, gripping it tightly in his hands. ¡°Hey, your tuxedo is new now.¡± she whispered to him.


    Of all the things Gina could say, that was what went into her head. ¡°What do you think, that I¡¯m going to wear my uniform to our wedding?¡± He said sarcastically, but when he looked at her, he noticed her watery eyes, so he felt guilty for his response. He sighed and tried to smile at his future wife. ¡°You look like a goddess now.¡±


    Gina smiled at hispliment. ¡°Thank you for the beautiful bouquet.¡±


    The Judge made them silent and indicated to begin. ¡°If we may begin.¡±


    GINA


    The ceremony seemed endless to her, but the truth is that the civil wedding ceremony was fast. They exchanged their wedding vows, then yed their wedding song (Love of a Lifetime) while the hired singer sang it. But she didn¡¯t care about those around her because she just focused her full attention on Ace. She looked at him again. He was wearing a ck tuxedo blended with the ck and blue brocade of his vest, and the pristine white of his shirt. He¡¯s really the look-a-like of Jensen Ackles.


    Ace has always had a good scent, especially now, which is why she is addicted to his scent. She only realized that Ace was holding her cold hand and he¡¯s now putting their wedding ring around her finger. Looks like everything went to a blur, and it looks like she really wants to cry. She wanted to remember it all. The confusing, overwhelming emotions, the huskiness of his voice, the fragrance of him and the flowers. She wanted to hold and hug Ace infinitely. She wanted him to treat her like more than a friend. But she just hopes they feel the same way.


    While Ace¡¯s attention was still focused on the speaking Judge, she was just staring at him. She just realized what the Judge told them when he said, ¡°You may now kiss the bride.¡±


    Suddenly her chest throbbed with excitement. That was the part she was waiting for the most, the signal of the end of the wedding ceremony. She can finally feel his kiss.


    When he faced her, she looked into his eyes with anticipation. He lifted her small veil. When she felt his face approaching hers, she closed her eyes. She slightly puckered her lips and waited for his kiss. But he did not kiss her on the lips but only on the side. It was as if his lips barely touched her skin.


    She was hurt inside, nevertheless, she regained her smile. She did not want to feel sad on that special day just because he could not kiss her.


    I promise Ace, you¡¯re going to want to kiss me soon.


    Then somewhere through it all she heard Janice called, ¡°Maaaa¡­ sis¡­ I think my bag of water broke.¡± her sister called crying, while she saw her boyfriend was immobilized.


    ¡ª¨C


    JANICE


    A few momentster, they boarded the van to where she would be taken to the hospital. ¡°You should have stayed there, sis.¡± She said. ¡°You should have celebrated today at your reception.¡±


    ¡°The wedding ceremony is over, that¡¯s what¡¯s all important.¡± Ace told her. ¡°The reception will continue even without us. I know your sister wants to be here next to you. If you want, we¡¯ll be with you all night.¡±


    ¡°Thank you Ace, the truth is I¡¯m really scared because I¡¯m only seven months pregnant, I¡¯m afraid the baby will be premature.¡±


    While her sister and mother were praying quietly, and from what she could see, her nerves were also shaking. Payton, on the other hand, was also driving quietly, she knew he was also nervous. So only Ace always talks to her.


    They arrived immediately at the nearest hospital. Payton and Ace got out of the car and assisted her into the Emergency Room. It¡¯s even fun to look at them because they¡¯re all in tuxedos and gowns. So all the eyes of the people in the hospital were just staring at them.


    ¡°My stomach is contracting, I think I¡¯m going to give birth.¡± She told them.


    ¡°Don¡¯t make fun of me babe, I¡¯ll call your doctor first.¡± Payton told her.


    Payton, on the other hand, looked at Ace as if he would help him figure out what to do. Since then, Ace is the only one who has remained calm in this situation. It¡¯s only now that he can¡¯t read the emotion on his face.


    ACE


    He used to be calm, but now he seems to be affected by Gina¡¯s nervousness. Earlier, her hands were shaking as they held hands.


    ¡°My goodness, why are you wearing those? Are you from the wedding?¡± said the elderly nurse who was shocked.


    ¡°I need to push¡­¡± Janice gasped through gritted teeth.


    ¡°Ops, ops, ops, not yet, darling¡± said the elderly nurse. ¡°We will wait for your doctor first. Who is your husband? Come here and help your wife while we are still waiting for the doctor.¡±


    ¡°Can we also go inside the delivery room? So we can cheer her up?¡± Gina asked the nurse.


    The nurseughed at Gina. ¡°It¡¯s strictly forbidden here in the hospital, but it also depends on your doctor, usually if anyone is allowed, only the husband can enter. You have a waiting area, maybe you¡¯ll just wait there because we¡¯re going to bring her into thebor room.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    They now put Janice in thebor room and  they were left outside. He noticed that Gina was still restless, so he thought of talking to her first. ¡°Just calm down Gina, Janice will be fine inside.¡±


    ¡°I hope so, I hope my sister and nephew are both okay. Ace, can youe with me to thedies room? I¡¯ll just want you to help me to adjust the straps behind me, because I¡¯m notfortable with the gown anymore.¡±


    When they got to thedies room, she immediately closed the whole room so that no one else could enter, because the people there might be surprised. Then he immediately turned Gina around and began to loosen the straps. ¡°Can you take a deep breath, Gina,¡± he said. ¡°I won¡¯t fix it if you don¡¯t cooperate with me.¡±


    ¡°Can you just hurry up Ace, maybe the doctor wille.¡±


    ¡°Okay, here it is, I¡¯m in a hurry.¡±


    ¡°If Janice really gives birth today, I hope she and her baby will be okay even if it¡¯s premature.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just pray that they will be okay.¡±


    But when they suddenly heard a knock, they were both startled.


    ¡°Are you feeling rxed now?¡±


    ¡°Pretty loose, thanks.¡±


    They were already out in thedies room and from behind Gina, he could see her strapless bra because of the loose tie on her gown. He could say Gina was perfection. She has killer legs, well-toned thighs, a t abdomen, perfect curves front and back. All in all, she is mouthwatering. And he¡¯d been stupid enough to deny himself the right to enjoy it all.


    He just shook his head. ¡°I¡¯ll just wait for you in the waiting area.¡±


    ¡°Come with me. Janice also wants you there, and I think Payton also needs moral support. Did you see how nervous he was a while ago? He¡¯s scared to death.¡±


    ¡°Maybe that¡¯s just the reaction of the father-to-be.¡±


    ¡°All right, I¡¯ll go with Mama Joy outside thebor room. Just don¡¯t go around the corner so it¡¯s easy to find you in case we need you.¡±


    He just nodded to her and noticed that the people they met were looking at them. Maybe because Gina was wearing a gown and he was wearing a tuxedo.


    As they walked, he turned to Gina, and he could see the depression on her face. But even so, he still admires her stability. Even with her sister Janice, he also admires her courage, and also their mother¡¯s calmness. He didn¡¯t realize that he still followed Gina outside thebor room. And speaking of her mother, for the first time he heard her call him.


    ¡°Ace, your just following me?¡± Gina said in shock, because she thought he was just in the waiting area.


    ¡°Ace, can I talk to you for a moment?¡± Gina¡¯s mother said.


    ¡°All right,¡± he replied.


    ¡°You know, I¡¯m happy because you and Gina found each other. I¡¯m happy to see that my children are happy with the one they love.¡±


    ¡°Mama, here you go again¡­ of course Ace and I will meet because we work together.¡± Gina interrupted them.


    ¡°Shut up, Georgina. Ace, thank you because you chose to join us rather than have fun at your reception. I am even more confident that my daughter married you because I know you will never leave her.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, thank you for your trust, Ma.¡±


    He saw that Gina just stared at him.


    While Gina¡¯s mom held his hand. ¡°I¡¯m really happy because my daughter married you. And I also see that you will be a good father to your children, Ace.¡±


    Their conversation was interrupted when the doctor arrived and immediately entered thebor room. He also noticed that Payton was sweating profusely and was uneasy as if he was inbor.


    The doctor came out immediately and told them that Janice had to give birth through caesarian section, because apart from the fact that her bag of water was already broken, her blood pressure also rose.


    Payton was then asked by the nurse to sign a waiver that he agreed as the father of the child that Janice would undergo a caesarian section.


    GINA


    More than three hours had passed, her sister¡¯s caesarian section was finally done. The nurse informed them that the baby had been taken to the nursery room to be incubated immediately, so they hurriedly went there.


    ¡°Look at the baby, he¡¯s very small, but he¡¯s really cute.¡± She said tearfully. ¡°Your grandchild is a boy, Ma.¡±


    ¡°Yes, my grandchild is a boy.¡± Her mother said in tears.


    Here was the miracle. Janice survived her childbirth and her nephew is a survivor as well. She turned to Ace and she couldn¡¯t seem to read the expression on his face. Love bloomed inside her, but she was aware that she¡¯s not loved by the man whom she married, and their marriage was only in name because they would also separate eventually. The fact that she¡¯s marrying a man without any promise of love ormitment or children. A man who saw her as a responsibility. And a liability. Will she ever change that?


    *****

 Chapter 14

    GINA


    After a few hours in the hospital, they now arrived at Maryam¡¯s ce, but she didn¡¯t think they could catch up with the reception. The whole area was quiet and the only thing they could hear was the instrumental musicing from the house of Maryam.


    ¡°This day is really weird.¡± Ace said softly but she heard it.


    She was just following Ace as he entered Maryam¡¯s house, but she bumped his back because he suddenly stopped. She looked in which direction Ace was looking and saw Maryam and Judge Soler dancing in her spacious living room. They were in each other¡¯s arms and swaying a little to the sweet music. Even the paper will be stuck in the closeness of their bodies.


    ¡°We¡¯d better just leave.¡± She whispered to Ace.


    When the two noticed them, the Judge immediately separated from Maryam.


    ¡°Finally you¡¯re here, too. Come in. Come in.¡± Maryam invited them.


    ¡°About an hour ago your guests left.¡± said Maryam who was still blushing. ¡°Tell us everything. We¡¯re dying to know.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Maryam, it was a beautiful experience and¨C¡±


    ¡°It¡¯sforting,¡± Ace added.


    ¡°He¡¯s right,¡± she smiled at her. ¡°They named the child Carlisle d Cruz and he¡¯s really cute.¡±


    ¡°You can tell us more while you eat, I¡¯ll have a couple of dinner tes fixed for you. You can also rest here first, afterwards.¡±


    They also stayed at Maryam¡¯s house for an hour, enjoying thepany and the music, and they just handed out the garter and bouquet to the two remaining guests. Then they said goodbye to Maryam so that they could rest at the hotel where Payton and Janice reserved them as a gift for their wedding.


    When they arrived at the said hotel, a receptionist also escorted them to their suite. Ace immediately opened their suite when they arrived there. But the only thing she didn¡¯t expect was Ace suddenly lifted her. ¡°It¡¯s traditional, to keep away from evil spirits.¡± He said, but she knew it was another one of what Ace had read in the bride magazine.


    She just took advantage of that opportunity, sheid her head on Ace shoulder as she enjoyed the moment he was carrying her. She knew that as soon as the door was closed, their pretension would end.


    She rolled her eyes in therge room. The suite was sumptuously decorated, invitingly warm and private, especially that they can see the view of Man Bay that would be spectacr on a clear night.


    Ace also dropped her off, while the receptionist continued to follow them to give them instructions. After giving instructions, the receptionist also left immediately.


    When they finally closed the door of the honeymoon suite, silence enveloped them. She just went to the closet so she could change her clothes. But when she opened it, she was amazed at what she saw. Maybe Ace was curious about her reaction so he also looked at it.


    ¡°I don¡¯t n these.¡± She said defensively.


    Because their closet is full of ck & red lingerie and boxer shorts.


    ¡°As if it wasn¡¯t Janice who reserved our suite, If I¡¯m not mistaken maybe Maryam was the one who nned it.¡± She added. ¡°Maryam also knows that red is my favorite color.¡±


    He frowned at her. ¡°It¡¯s so obvious that red is your favorite color.¡±


    ¡°Maryam really asked me what my favorite color is.¡± She said.


    Gina searched the closet again so she might find a decent night gown there. But no, as in she doesn¡¯t have anything decent to wear. She noticed that there was a note on the wall of the closet, so she took it and read it.


    Shame on you, Gina. This is your first wedding night, not your fiftieth anniversary. I threw away your old-fashioned night gowns. With this, you¡¯ll thank me in the morning.


    ¨C Maryam


    She turned to Ace now, at the same time reaching for what Maryam had written. ¡°Read here, so you know whose n is that. My goodness! We don¡¯t have any clothes to change,¡± she said. ¡°What if, I¡¯ll just wear this red see-through nightie or thiscy¨C¡±


    ¡°Wear this one, Gina.¡± Ace said, then proceeded to unbutton the garment he offered.


    ¡ª¨C


    ACE


    ¡°Wait a minute, Ace.¡± Gina said as she nced at the big bed. ¡°I still can¡¯t sleep. After all that happened today, I don¡¯t think I can sleep.¡±


    He hesitated at first, then he tipped her chin up with his finger. ¡°You¡¯re just tired. I know how much effort you¡¯ve prepared for this day, don¡¯t deny it because Janice told me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not tired, I¡¯m wide-awake, Ace.¡± She protested.


    ¡°You¡¯re running out of adrenaline and you¡¯re going to tell me now that you¡¯re not tired? We¡¯re the two of us here Gina, so we don¡¯t have to pretend in front of other people. Let yourself unwind, sweetie. Let¡¯s take a bath first.¡± Then he continued to take off his top and handed it to Gina.


    ¡°Just sleep well tonight, so that tomorrow you will be refreshed. You look like Sadako.¡±


    GINA


    She quickly epted Ace¡¯s shirt and immediately averted her eyes so that she could not stare at his seductive half-naked body.


    ¡°You praised me at the wedding earlier and then you just told me that I look like Sadako.¡± She said, annoyed.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°You know, that¡¯s what I missed you Gina, to tease you.¡± Ace said.


    ¡°You really don¡¯t have any sweet bones in your body, huh?¡±


    ¡°I can be sweet to you, but in front of other people.¡± Ace replied.


    Ouch! It hurts!


    Then he smiled at her ¡°Be true to yourself Gina, we¡¯re the only two here.¡±


    It takes so long before she could answer. ¡°I know our rtionship is not normal, Ace. But circumstances can change that.¡±


    ¡°I know. But that¡¯s going to be a hot debate.¡± he said, and went into the bathroom first. Until she heard the rush of water from the bathroom, but soon Ace came out immediately.


    ¡°Wait there Gina, I¡¯m still filling the tub.¡±


    Ace passed in front of her and without saying a word he turned off the light. She would have reacted, but when he lit a candle on their dinner table, she was stunned.


    ¡°Would you like to drink champagne?¡±


    She just nodded in response.


    She thought about what Ace had told her earlier. That she will be true to herself.


    Why did Ace say that to her? She asked herself confused.


    After all, Ace was the one who has to be true to himself between the two of them. Because honestly, she doesn¡¯t know her husband very well, because she only knows limited information about him.


    While waiting for the tub to fill, the two of them were entertained by watching the city lights while drinking champagne. Ace talked constantly, and she kept eyeing him curiously.


    After a while he left her, and she heard the water stop, then the sound of the whirlpool bubbling followed. She was excited by what she heard, so she immediately followed her husband there.


    She was just amazed when she entered the bathroom and was greeted by the beautiful set-up there with matching candle lights and flower petals scattered on the floor.


    Ace turned to her and his smile is very genuine.


    ¡°Thank you for choosing my beautiful bouquet, which I really appreciate. As well as your inspiring message. I¡¯m sorry if I got mad at youst night at the rehearsal.¡±


    ¡°Why are you mad at mest night? Is it because I didn¡¯t continue to give you the gift?¡± Ace teased her again. ¡°I could still give you a gift. If you want, the most personal one.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 15

    ACE


    He didn¡¯t want to misunderstand her. But until this assignment was over and everyone, including Gina and himself was safe, he couldn¡¯t take advantage of her willingness or his desire to make the marriage more real. He will not think about what will happen in the future as long as what is important to him now. He had to put his job first, the job he¡¯d almost lost, even after all he¡¯d invested in it. He was doubly obligated to seed now.


    ¡°You know I¡¯ll just lie if I say I don¡¯t like you, Gina.¡± he said as he stepped closer to Gina. ¡°I¡¯ve wanted you since the beginning. I can¡¯t hide that from you. But whatever the reason for our marriage, that it will not change.¡±


    ¡°I really don¡¯t understand you, Ace. It¡¯s hard for me to understand you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s better that you just don¡¯t understand me. There¡¯s much more to Brando Nics than I can tell you. All I¡¯m asking from you is trust. That¡¯s all I¡¯m asking of you Gina, that you trust me. That¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°Why, what can he do to you and me?¡±


    ¡°You know, I can¡¯t answer that.¡±


    ¡°Are you in trouble, Ace?¡±


    He read the suspicion in her eyes. Does he have to tell her this?


    ¡°And why can¡¯t you answer me?¡± She asked. ¡°I¡¯m your wife now. What affects you, will affect me too.¡±


    ¡°When I¡¯m ready Gina, I¡¯ll tell you everything. Just wait, it¡¯ll be over soon.¡±


    She frowned. ¡°Do you mean, this marriage will be over soon?¡±


    ¡°If there was only enough time, I really don¡¯t want us to end up at the wedding, if there was only time, we should have just been engaged.¡± He turned abruptly. ¡°And oh, maybe your water in the tub has cooled down.¡±


    He went out of the bathroom and made the bedding of their bed. He thought of calling Payton to say hello to Janice and her baby. His feelings continued as if he was a real member of Gina¡¯s family.


    He also decided to just wear the boxer shorts prepared by Maryam, anyway he saw a robe in the drawer of the cab. After he changed clothes, he sat on a settee there while drinking champagne. He thought about what happened to himst month. Contentment drifted over him. He aplished his primary goal to keep Gina away from Brando Nics audacity. If he hadn¡¯t married her, she would have been in Brando Nics hands now, and made her a ve to his crude pleasures until he got tired of her.


    He didn¡¯t want to think about it but he couldn¡¯t help but think about it. Anyway, It had been a good day, even if it hadn¡¯t gone exactly ording to n.


    He looked away when the bathroom door opened. And he saw that Gina was wearing his long sleeve. Knowing she hadn¡¯t spotted him in the dimly lit bedroom, he just saw her fumbling with the light switch.


    ¡°I¡¯m here.¡± he said, rising and walking toward her. His long sleeve covered her to mid-thigh. The sleeves were rolled just below her elbows. That¡¯s a very lucky shirt, he said to himself.


    ¡°Spying honey? Why do you look like you¡¯re spying there,¡± she said.


    For him it was a good sign, because the old vigor in Gina¡¯s eyes had returned. ¡°I¡¯m sorry Gina, if I didn¡¯t turn on the light right away, I had fallen asleep.¡± He lied.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay Ace, just don¡¯t go to sleep, I¡¯m not sleepy yet. Let¡¯s just y cards. I saw some ying cards in the drawer.¡±


    ¡°All right, let¡¯s y strip poker.¡±


    ¡°Huh? I don¡¯t know how to y that, I only know solitaire.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter, let¡¯s just have fun. By the way, my shirt fits you perfectly, you look even sexier.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, and because of yourpliment, I¡¯ll let myself be defeated voluntarily.¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you really sleepy yet, Gina?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    He thinks that maybe there was something else he could do for her after all.


    ¡°Did you sleep wellst night?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Honestly, I didn¡¯t sleep very wellst night.¡±


    ¡°Do you want a back massage? It will help you rx.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather y solitaire.¡± Then Gina grumbled in bed. ¡°Sometimes you need to have fun, you take life too seriously.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take it under consideration.¡± he replied.


    GINA


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you really tempted by me, Ace? or you don¡¯t find me attractive?¡± She didn¡¯t wait for him to answer, she justy down and covered herself with a nket. Loving him was not going to be easy. Loving him and not being able to show it was going to be impossible, especially on the terms he¡¯d established.


    After a few minutes of silence, she just heard Ace speaking. ¡°Take off your clothes, I will massage your back,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ll be back in a minute.¡±


    She understood that he expected her to strip and cover up by the time he returned, so she just followed what he said.


    She quickly took off her clothes and only covered her body with a nket.


    When Ace returned, she saw that he brought a lotion.


    ¡°Lie down, Gina, so I can put lotion on your back.¡±


    While she was lying down, Ace sat down next to her and applied lotion to her back. Her breathing seemed to stop as Ace started massaging her back. She realized that it felt so good.


    ¡°There, you can sleep well tonight.¡± he said, his voice is as soothing as the massage.


    After a while, his hand massaged her. His fingers massaged hers one by one, then his thumbs pressed her palms. It looks like his fingers have be rubber. After a few minutes, he massaged her back again, straying a little lower each time, until she could feel the nket covering her body was lifted as he continued to massage.


    She was afraid to breathe, because that opportunity might be cut short by her little movement. She didn¡¯t want Ace to notice that she had been electrified by what he was doing. It¡¯s good to think she¡¯s asleep.


    Now, she felt his hands stroke her thighs, then a gentle tug to move her legs apart. The bed sank as he knelt between her thighs, massaging one thigh, then the other. He also slid his hands back up her legs, pushing, pressing, and stroking. Then gentle fingertips stroked her, drawing her essence, teasing her, until she forgot everything.


    ¡°Easy.¡± he said softly as he touched her intimately.


    Ace leaned over her, and he held both her shoulders while he whispered in her ear ¡°Roll over.¡±


    Because Ace was still kneeling between her thighs, he had to maneuver hers around him as she turned. After she turned around, Ace removed the nket in front of her, leaving her vulnerable and wanting him. But he didn¡¯t even move her. She was still expecting what would happen to them next. But he stopped what he was doing and turned away his gaze from her.


    ¡°Kiss me Ace, please. I think I¡¯m going to die if you don¡¯t.¡±


    Ace looked at her again and gently stroked her hair. Her eyes widened when she saw that his face was gradually approaching hers. She closed her eyes. Is this the moment? Is he going to kiss her? Probably not, it was too good to be true. She was just imagining things, her other mind said. But then, she just felt the application of his lips to hers. He nipped her lips softly and slowly as if she was being electrified for several megawatts. He tasted dark and hot and mysterious. And he knew exactly when to retreat, when to press, when to tease, when to satisfy, and she reciprocated also her husband ¡®s warm kisses.


    Between their kisses they hear their own growls. Ace got up and took off his clothes, ohl-a¡­ it was exposed to her what she had previously avoided to see, his six-pack abs physique.


    He began to caress her thighs up, then down, and she couldn¡¯t help but feel the strange sensation caused by what he was doing.


    Ace kissed her again on her lips until her lips dropped to her breast. He gently cupped her breast and then tasted it. His tongue tracing a path around each nipple and sucked it. She couldn¡¯t help but moan with so much pleasure that she felt. When she was finding air to breathe again, he reached for the side garter of her panty and pulled it down her legs. Then, he inserted two of his fingers into her core while his thumb makes circr motions on her clit making her back arched. Again and again she almost reached the peak. She feels really good, undescribable it seems.


    But Ace suddenly stopped what he was doing, as if he went back to reality. He stood up, put on his clothes again and covered her with the nket.


    ¡°Where are you going, Ace?¡± She asked as he walked away.


    ¡°Go to sleep, Georgina.¡±


    Is that all he will say to her after he left her hanging again?


    She quickly put on her clothes and immediately followed Ace.


    When she was able to reach him, she approached him and confronted. ¡°What are you doing, Ace? Why did you walk away from me?¡± She asked directly. She really should know the answer to it, whether it hurts her or not.


    *****

 Chapter 16

    ACE


    ¡°You need a rest Gina, so go to sleep.¡±


    Gina snatched the ss he was holding and threw it on the floor. Fortunately, the floor was carpeted so it didn¡¯t break.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you, Gina?¡± He raised his voice. But the hurt in her eyes sliced ? ? him like a dull knife.


    ¡°You! You¡¯re my problem. I hate you, Ace. I hate you.¡±


    Gina turned her back on him and ran to the terrace. A few more minutes passed before he thought of following his wife there.


    He reached Gina there as if she was looking into the distance. She doesn¡¯t notice him right away because she might be thinking deeply. He cleared his throat, so she turned to him. But silence still prevailed between the two of them.


    ¡°It¡¯s all clear to me, Ace.¡± She finally said. ¡°It¡¯s midnight, and our wedding is officially over. We¡¯re back to normal. In the beginning I knew it was all just pretending, so I¡¯m sorry if I vited our agreement.¡±


    Gina shouldn¡¯t me herself because it wasn¡¯t her fault, it seemed like she was still very innocent. It was his fault because he had taken advantage of her and he was no different from other men.


    ¡°Gina¨C¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who always gives, Ace. You don¡¯t even let me repay you for what you give me. Do you have any idea how that makes me feel?¡±


    Gina stepped forward towards him. He could see her trying to make a mask on her face, but she was as readable as she¡¯d always been.


    ¡°You married me to protect me. You installed a security device in my house for my security. Then you even gave me your grandmother¡¯s ring. You pay for our wedding expenses. You also nned almost every detail at our wedding. Then when I was tired and stressed, you ran my bath for me, set my mood with a candlelight, gave me a back massage, and most of all you always gave me all my requests.¡±


    He didn¡¯t just react to what she was saying to him because maybe their conversation would end somewhere else.


    ¡°You did all that to me, and now you don¡¯t want to repay me for everything you did for me, Ace. What am I to you, a dummy? Or a prop?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think like that Gina, you¡¯re not a dummy or a prop,¡± he approached Gina and touched both of her shoulders. ¡°I cared about you, so I did all that.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s still not enough, Ace. If you cared enough you would trust me. You¡¯ll tell me why. You¡¯ll answer my questions to you, and let me repay you for what you¡¯ve done for me.¡± Gina said. ¡°Maybe because I don¡¯t have much experience like you.¡± She added. ¡°You think that I couldn¡¯t bring you the same level of pleasure. Is that true? But I guarantee you, that I can give everything I can give.¡±


    Gina leaned forward and pressed her lips to the base of his throat. He swallowed and could hardly breathe.


    ¡°If I let you, Gina,¡± he said, struggling to resist her. ¡°The fact that we haven¡¯t consummated our marriage is still part of our agreement.¡±


    She stared at him, while she untied the sash of his robe and slid her arms around him. ¡°We¡¯re legally married, so there¡¯s nothing wrong with doing that. For now, will you give me a favor, Ace? Will youe back to bed and make love to me? Will you let me make you happy?¡±


    This is probably the hardest decision he will make in his whole life. ¡°When we do that Gina,  a lot will change.¡± He said and distanced himself a little from his wife.


    ¡°You know I¡¯m really impressed with your integrity, but I¡¯m your wife now Ace, so don¡¯t be stubborn. Me too, I also have something called integrity and pride, but you know Ace, sometimes I thought that maybe you¡¯re a gay so you don¡¯t like me.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what you think about me, Gina.¡±


    ¡°If I don¡¯t have appeal to you, then let¡¯s sleep next to each other, the bed is big for the two of us.¡±


    He also thinks there¡¯s nothing wrong with sleeping next to her in bed. He is very immature if he does not ept the challenge. He smiled secretly, he looked at the floor for a few moments. When he looked back at Gina, he suddenly remembered the beautiful shape of his wife¡¯s body, as well as her healthy breasts, and how her body also responded to his caresses.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to sleep now.¡± She said arousing his imagination. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to sleep here, I¡¯ll let you go home to your apartment and sleep there.¡±


    ¡°Are you driving me away? And who told you I don¡¯t want to sleep next to you?¡± He saw that Gina was speechless at his question, and instead she just blinked.


    GINA


    She blinked away her shock. Couldn¡¯t she just be dreaming? Will they really sleep together in one bed all night?


    ¡°Are you going in? Or are you going to sleep on the terrace?¡± Ace said as he moved to the doorway.


    She passed in front of Ace and gave him a seductive stare. You¡¯re so naughty Gina, she said to herself.


    ACE


    He just smiled at what Gina did, little by little the tension in his body was disappearing.


    When they reached the bed, they climbed on both sides at the same time. They were lying side by side on the big bed, but neither of them was speaking. The two of them were just staring at the ceiling.


    ¡°What if I get cold tonight?¡± Gina broke their silence. ¡°What are you going to do?¡±


    He turned his head to Gina. ¡°The fire is zing, Georgina.¡±


    ¡°Meaning?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Meaning, it¡¯s my responsibility to keep you warm. I believe that¡¯s one of the things I swore today. I mean, yesterday.¡±


    ¡°Which one of those, Ace? Is that love, honor, and provide heat?¡± She asked teasingly.


    ¡°Did I say something like that? I don¡¯t think I remember.¡± then he rolled into her side. ¡°Are you cold?¡±


    ¡°Meaning?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that what you call integrity? By tempting me even further?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want it Ace, to make our first wedding night memorable? Or do you want me to call our night ¡®The Night of Passionate Resistance¡¯? What do you think?¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Maybe you can also call it ¡®The Night of¡­¡± he sighed. ¡°Come here, Gina.¡±


    ¡°Meaning?¡±


    ¡°Meaning, let¡¯s start warming up.¡±


    GINA


    Spooned together, that¡¯s what Ace said ¨C warming up. She squirmed until she found the perfect spot against him, the one that made him groan because he couldn¡¯t hide his body¡¯s response to her nearness.


    ¡°Oops, sorry.¡± She apologized as her back bumped against him. He mped a hand against her hip, stilling her.


    ¡°This is my condition for the past few months, so it¡¯s normal for me.¡± Ace said, she felt goosebumps rise in her skin as he spoke close to her neck.


    ¡°Do you realize how often I amend rules to suit you, Gina?¡±


    ¡°I know you¡¯re flexible, Ace.¡±


    Sometimes she really wondered about Ace, but whatever it is, as long as she cherishes this opportunity for their bodies toe together. She would get him to change his mind about letting her return the pleasure he¡¯d given her. Sooner rather thanter, she hoped. Hopefully she will find the right opportunity to tell Ace the content of her feelings. Hopefully, when Ace finds out about her love for him, he won¡¯t be separated from her as they agreed. And she hopes that she gets to know him better.


    ¡°Goodnight, Ace.¡± She said softly. She wanted him to sleep so that she could stay awake all night and savor being in his arms. ¡°Sweet dreams.¡±


    It was early in the morning but she still couldn¡¯t sleep, his army heavily across her waist while he was sleeping soundly. She turned to lie down to face him and also took the opportunity to stare closely at her husband¡¯s handsome face. Why is it that he only smiles at her once, but when he is joking with their female colleagues he always smiles?


    Ace Roderick Durant III. The man everything she¡¯d ever wanted in a lifetime partner. Protective, kind, and intelligent, even if sometimes he¡¯s very arrogant. As a lover, he was generous and thoughtful. As a friend, he was loyal andmitted, a much better giver than receiver.


    She couldn¡¯t help but caress his face, so his eyes suddenly opened wide. She was startled so she turned around quickly. She just felt that Ace embrace with her became tighter.


    ¡°You can¡¯t sleep?¡± he whispered, stroking her back.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that, I just want to change position.¡± She alibi, but Ace fell asleep again.


    She turned to lie down again and faced Ace. She ced one of her thighs on his side and caressed her husband¡¯s smooth face again, loving the scent of him and the heat they shared. Though she was fighting drowsiness just to watch her sleeping husband all night, but the need to sleep overpowered her. Her eyes drifted shut, then she blinked them open, but they closed again.


    ¡°Sleep now my dear, wife.¡± Whoa! his voice was husky and mesmerizing. ¡°Sleep tight, sweetie.¡±


    What else should I do? In just the soft voice  of Ace, she seems to be swinging.


    *****

 Chapter 17

    GINA


    ¡°Good morning sleepyhead, don¡¯t you have any ns to get up there?¡±


    She tried to open her eyes even though she was still sleepy. She saw Ace sitting next to her, holding a mug as he inhaled the aroma of coffee. Her gaze settled on the steaming mug he tipped to his mouth. She got up and Ace handed her a mug with hot coffee.


    ¡°If you¡¯re always like this Ace, I might be spoiled.¡± She said and gave him a sweet smile. ¡°Hmmm¡­¡±


    She nced at Ace and saw him that he was fresh from the bath. She thought it wasn¡¯t fair because he was now wearing a sweater and jeans, while she was still wearing her husband¡¯s loose shirt with her messy hair. She also noticed that he looked irritated and just insisted on not showing it to her.


    ¡°You look like you have a period, is there a problem?¡±


    ACE


    He averted his eyes from Gina and sipped the coffee in his mug again. ¡°Nothing.¡±


    Gina frowned. ¡°Did you wake up earlier?¡±


    If he only knew that he hadn¡¯t really slept all night. How could he sleep with Gina watching him all night. He could hardly move in the tightness of her embrace. Just before she woke up, her hand was on his crotch area so his manhood was hardening there. He became even more tempted by his wife. Fortunately, she finally fell asleep so he was free to remove  her leg from his thighs. He just didn¡¯t realize how long the position was like that. It¡¯s as if he dreamed of an erotic scene, every scene really held his breath. It¡¯s only now that he discovers that Gina unconsciously caresses whatever she touches while she¡¯s asleep. There was also a chance that half of her body crossed over his body. He really didn¡¯t sleep all night and he just waited for Gina to sleep soundly. What¡¯s more, it was early in the morning when she fell asleep just by staring at him. So when she was sound asleep, he took the opportunity to get up and y with his cellphone until morning. He showered early and contacted someone to bring him decent clothes.


    ¡°Ace?¡± Gina asked him while he was in deep thought.


    ¡°What?¡± He asked, annoyed.


    ¡°I said, if you woke up earlier?¡±


    ¡°Maybe about half an hour before you wake up.¡±


    ¡°Good, I thought you were awake earlier and you were just waiting for me to wake up. What time is it now?¡±


    ¡°Two.¡±? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    ¡°In the afternoon? OMG! Are you serious?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m just kidding.¡±


    She sighed. ¡°Well, don¡¯t do that again. It¡¯s not a funny joke.¡±


    He nced at his watch and grinned. ¡°It¡¯s actually seven-thirty in the morning.¡±


    ¡°Good, then.¡± Gina said and yawned as if still drowsy. She got off the bed and stretched her body. ¡°I think I slept well, you Ace?¡±


    ¡°M-me? I slept well too.¡±


    GINA


    ¡°We¡¯re the same. I even dreamed a lot, it¡¯s just that I can¡¯t remember any of them.¡±


    She saw Ace¡¯s eyes staring at her thighs because her legs were exposed on what she was wearing. And it shortened even more as shebed her hair with her fingers in front of Ace.


    ¡°I called Paytonst night,¡± he said, meeting her gaze as she grabbed the edge of the mattress with both hands and leaned forward. ¡°Payton said that they could be discharged from the hospital the next day. So we will visit them tomorrow. I even heard Janice say that she won¡¯t bother us right now because we¡¯re going to have a baby.¡±


    ¡°Ha! What a lovely fantasy.¡± She pushed herself off the bed to approach him. ¡°I liked sleeping with you. And I¡¯m pleased to tell you that you don¡¯t snore.¡±


    ACE


    He moved a little distance from Gina so that he could see the fullness of his wife while wearing his shirt. Whoa! Gina was the sexiest thing he¡¯d ever seen.


    ¡°Neither do you,¡± he said and saw Gina stepped closer to him again.


    ¡°Really? I¡¯d been worried about that.¡±


    Last night he noticed that the two upper buttons of the shirt she wore was open, and the third was also half-open, so he could see her cleavage freely. ¡°You know, you¡¯re a tempting package,¡± he said and looked at Gina from head to toe.


    ¡°Maryam¡¯s been giving me some advice.¡± She said.


    ¡°What did she advice you?¡±


    He was surprised when Gina suddenly wrapped her hands around his waist. ¡°She said since mama didn¡¯t attend my bridal shower, she was the one who would advice me about things.¡±


    His eyebrows rose at what he heard from Gina. ¡°Is that so? What did you learn from her advice?¡±


    ¡°After the bridal shower, Maryam and I were the only two left. We were also a bit tipsy. As far as I can remember, we justughed andughed, and some of her ideas were so exotic. She told me a lot of things that I would need to try¨C ¡± and sheughed softly. ¡°But I¡¯m ashamed if I tell you more.¡±


    ¡°Like what?¡± He came closer to Gina and suddenly he inserted a hand into the opening of her shirt and his hand traveled to her breast.


    GINA


    ¡°All right, share now your secret with Maryam. Just one little secret.¡± Ace caressed her, distracting her by moving his hand across her breast until the hard tip rested against his palm.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to, over my dead gorgeous body.¡±


    ¡°Oh,e on. Be a sport, Gina.¡±


    She shifted closer as he thumbed her nipple. ¡°Maryam said,¡± she started and then took a deep breath. ¡°That if I put my fingers like this¨C¡± she demonstrated as she talked. ¡°¨Con this part of your anatomy, you couldst all night.¡±


    She saw that Ace swallowed twice by what she did.


    ¡°I think that¡¯s where she meant. We don¡¯t have a model or anything. Maybe it¡¯s just because of Maryam¡¯s drunkenness so she¡¯s advising me like that.¡±


    ¡°God forbid, Gina. Don¡¯t squeeze that.¡±


    ¡°Do you know what I want to do now? All I want to do now is a theory test.¡±


    Ace pressed his body closer to hers so she was the one who backed away.


    ¡°What makes you think that I need any help tost all night?¡±


    She swallowed and became uneasy of the closeness of their bodies.


    ¡°Breakfast will be delivered in about fifteen minutes¡± he said, turning away. ¡°Take a bath first before eating breakfast, let¡¯s check out before twelve.¡±


    She just nodded in response.


    When she reached the bathroom door, she suddenly remembered something so she turned to Ace again. ¡°Maybe Judge Soler and Maryam were together all night.¡±


    ¡°Possibly, and why did you ask that?¡±


    ¡°I think Judge Soler is more suitable for Maryam than those who are younger than her. Maryam needs a man like Judge Soler.¡±


    ¡°Maybe Maryam hasn¡¯t noticed the Judge much yet.¡± Ace said. ¡°But you can still ovee anything if you really love that person.¡±


    ACE


    When Gina finally entered the bathroom, he unzipped the bag and flipped the lid open. He paused and stared into the empty suitcase, as he thought about what his Dad had said about romantic idealism and how it only results in pain.


    *****

 Chapter 18

    ACE


    A few hourster, they arrived at Gina¡¯s boarding house. He himself opened Gina¡¯s door with a key. As soon as they entered the house, he first observed if the rm system he was setting would sound. However, there was no high-pitched warning to meet them.


    ¡°Do you remember when you set the rm?¡± He immediately asked Gina.


    ¡°Of course, I set the rm before I left.¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Are you sure, Gina?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure, because I always¨C¡±


    ¡°Who else did you give ess to?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t give anyone, Ace. Not even Janice.¡±


    ¡°Stay here.¡± He shut the door as she was still speaking and drew his weapon. As he had observed, nothing seemed out of ce in the living room. He opened Gina¡¯s bedroom, moved into the connecting bathroom and went through to the other room he was going to upy. All his equipment isplete after he moved into Gina¡¯s house a week ago. He also checked the cab where he put the gun and magazines and he breathed a sigh of relief because they were still there. He quickly closed the cab door when Gina suddenly entered.


    ¡°You¡¯re so forgetful Gina, you haven¡¯t set the rm yet.¡±


    ¡°No. I¡¯m sure I set that. I¡¯ve even checked a few more times to see if the rm was really set before I left the house.¡±


    ¡°Come here and take a look. So you can see that it¡¯s not really set.¡± He said and pointed the rm at Gina.


    ¡°Are you still worried about Brando?¡± She asked. ¡°Do I think our marriage is the effective solution so that Brando won¡¯t bother me again.¡±


    ¡°The issue here is just the rm that isn¡¯t set, Gina. That¡¯s all, Period.¡± He said and noticed that Gina didn¡¯t say a word. ¡°Anyway, the important thing is that no one got in here.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that when I left, the rm was really set¡­ or maybe there¡¯s a ghost here and your rm was tampered with?¡±


    He rested his arms against the doorjamb and he justughed at Gina¡¯s mania.


    GINA


    ¡°Forget that ghost Ace, I¡¯m just joking¨C¡± She was quickly interrupted because Ace suddenly swept her into his arms. She slid both arms around his neck while their faces were inches apart, and she looked at Ace¡¯s red lips. He carried her to the living room andid her on the couch.


    ¡°Do you still have an empty cab in your room for my other equipment?¡±


    She was encouraged again by what Ace said. ¡°Do you mean you¡¯ll be sleeping with me?


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll still be sleeping in the other room. I¡¯m just putting things in your room, it¡¯s for appearance sake just in case your mom and Janice visit here.¡±


    She was disappointed with Ace¡¯s answer, so she turned her back on him and chose to go to her room. She knew he would follow her too.


    ACE


    He immediately followed Gina to her room because he might hurt her again. He slowly entered her room and only now did he notice that her room was fully decorated, but everything is tidy. But he suddenly remembered that the rm did not sound when they entered the house earlier, maybe someone had entered inside Gina¡¯s house. He didn¡¯t want to think about that, but he was really worried about the rm not ringing. He needs to get Gina away first and he also needs to inform his superior so that the security device will be reced immediately. Because if someone actually broke into her house, their lives could be endangered.


    ¡°Gina,e with me to the grocery store,¡± he said so Gina immediately turned to him. ¡°I¡¯ll just wait for you outside.¡± And he quickly left the room. He needed to call his boss, Carlo del Valle, even though he really didn¡¯t want to let him know.


    He saw Gina running where he was as if she were an Olympic runner who wanted to get the gold medal. As for him, why did he suddenly think of going to the grocery store? Is he afraid that he and Gina will be alone in the same room again?


    GINA


    She runs fast because Ace might leave her and change his mind that he won¡¯t take her to the grocery store anymore. She was really happy because Ace thought of including her even though sometimes she couldn¡¯t understand his behavior. And Before she left the house, she made sure she actually set the rm.


    ¡ª¨C


    ACE


    He stretched an arm along the back of the couch as he sipped an ice-cold beer. They¡¯d worked hard all evening, rearranging her room and his. So now they are a bit rxed and they are just talking. She found out that Gina writes as a part-time writer for a magazine publishingpany, and she is also one of the designers of Maryam¡¯s lingerie products. She also mentioned that she was only one year away and she was about to graduate. They also discussed the possible joke of their colleagues when they returned to work. They also n to visit Janice and her baby tomorrow before her sister is released from the hospital. He was happy because he automatically became a member of Gina¡¯s family. After all, they were now a couple, a team and a partnership.


    Gina informed him that she will be taking her bath first and after a few minutes, he could hear the murmur of watering from the bathroom. He leaned his head back to rest on the top of the sofa, being content.


    While they were busy shopping earlier, Mr. Del Valle¡¯s expert personnel searched Gina¡¯s home to check if anyone had actually entered her home. He was very grateful because no one entered her house and maybe Gina just forgot to set the rm.


    Now, he doesn¡¯t hear any noise because the water has stopped flowing. He imagined her drying off, while rubbing lotion over her soft velvety skin.


    ¡°The bathroom¡¯s free.¡± she called him from behind.


    When Gina left the bathroom door, he immediately entered. He could still smell the scent she left in the bathroom. His mind was working again, thinking if she was in her bed by the time he got out. After a few minutes, he heard a knock on the bathroom door.


    ¡°Ace,¡± Gina called him. ¡°I¡¯ll fix the bedding in your room.¡±


    He quickly closed the shower curtain because he forgot to lock the bathroom door and Gina might get inside. Whoa! That¡¯s hard. He was justughing at himself, because he seemed to be acting like a woman who was afraid of being peeked. But she was so damn obvious. Sometimes his thoughts about her are correct. What was he going to do with her?


    *****

 Chapter 19

    GINA


    She stared at her reflection in the mirror for a moment. She also doesn¡¯t want Ace to think that she¡¯s attracted to him, but howe? Maryam has thrown away all her pajamas and nnel nightgowns, and she has reced them with lingerie. So what can she wear before bed hour?? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    She entered the room upied by Ace and there she looked for clothes that she could wear before going to sleep. Anyway, she told Ace that she would go into his room and fix his bedding. As soon as she entered his room, she immediately saw Ace clothes on the hangers. She took a white sweatshirt with blue stripes from there and immediately put it on, because she thought that was the only decent thing she could wear because it was oversized and it was just above her knee.


    When she started to fix Ace¡¯s bedding, the water stopped flowing from the bathroom. She hurried out of the room and moved to the living room and sat down on the couch. She tried to assume a casual pose. She also changed positions a few times, then she took out a magazine that she pretended to be reading. She is nervous. She did not know why. When the door of the bathroom opened and Ace got out, she was still pretending to move the pages while reading, even though she didn¡¯t read what was written there.


    On the other hand, Ace just moved silently into the living room, but she knew he was there. She shifted her gaze to wander up to him, and saw that he was already dressed in sweatpants and a in white shirt. She was surprised when he spoke and she almost let go of the magazine she was holding.


    ¡°That shirt suits you better than me.¡± Ace said suddenly.


    ¡°Is it okay? Even if I¡¯m not asking¨C¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s mine is also yours, sweetie.¡± Ace said and leaned over her. ¡°We haven¡¯t opened the presents yet, have we?¡± He turned to the side table where the gifts were ced.


    ¡°Oh, I want us to open it together.¡±


    ¡°All right, we¡¯ll open it.¡±


    ¡°While we¡¯re opening presents, what else would you like to drink, Ace?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there?¡± Then he lifted the package into hisp.


    ¡°Is iced tea okay with you? Then we¡¯ll pair it with egg pie?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± He replied, and she walked towards the kitchen.


    As she poured powdered iced tea into the pitcher, she saw Ace setting down the gifts and joined her in the kitchen. ¡°I¡¯ll be the one to do that, Gina.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother, Ace.¡±


    ¡°No, Gina. Let me help you.¡± He insisted, so she was the first to resign. She leaned against the counter and crossed her arms. ¡°But I can do that alone, Ace.¡±


    ¡°I told you, I¡¯ll be happier if you just slice me an egg pie.¡±


    ¡°Okay then, you¡¯re the boss, do you want it heated?


    ACE


    He watched her shirt like a couple of inches up to her thighs as she leaned into the refrigerator to pull out the homemade pie that she baked earlier. Who needs heat? said his other mind. ¡°Heated is fine.¡±


    ¡°Do you want to eat the ice cream we bought?¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± He just said.


    When their food was ready, they returned to the living room. He took a bite of pie andplimented Gina on it. He was so full because his wife made him a delicious egg pie.


    ¡°I just want to ask Gina, where is your father?¡±


    She put down the drinking ss and then took a deep breath. ¡°My father has passed away.¡± She said sadly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    ¡°What did he die of? I¡¯m sorry if I asked that?¡±


    ¡°Car ident.¡±


    GINA


    FLASHBACK


    She was graduating from high school and she became Valedictorian. In her desire for her father to go to the said graduation, her father really did everything to go just because she wanted her father to put the medal on her. Her father promised that he would reallye. But after her graduation, her father still did note so they were very worried. At that time, her mother received a call and when she put down the phone, she suddenly broke down right in front of many people. She doesn¡¯t speak, she just cried and cried. Until her aunt called and Janice found out that the car their dad was driving was exploded because it allegedly collided with a pole. His body could no longer be identified because it was already  turned to ashes. Only the te number of the car and his wedding ring served as proof that it was their father. There were rumors that his car was possibly blown up, but they didn¡¯t believe it, because for them, their father was a good man, so it was impossible that he had an enemy. Since then, Gina has med herself a lot because if she hadn¡¯t forced her father to go to her graduation he would still be alive.


    END OF FLASHBACK


    ¡°I love papa very much, he gave us almost everything Janice and I needed. But when he¡¯s gone, everything we dreamed of seemed to have disappeared. Mama Joy, on the other hand, we couldn¡¯t talk to her for a few weeks because she was shocked. But when mama had regained her strength. I realized that I need to stay away from them and work here in Man, so that I can still support them.¡±


    ACE


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I reminded you of the sad past. But your mom didn¡¯t get upset with you, right?¡±


    ¡°Mama never med me. Yes, she was upset because I stayed away from them, but I exined that I had to take a risk so Janice and I could finish school. It¡¯s hard to be away from your family, but it¡¯s necessary. You know, mama is sad at first when Janice and I have someone to take care of, so I cracked a joke to her that she needs to find a man who would take care of her, too.¡±


    ¡°Why is that important to you, Gina? That a woman needs a man to take care of?¡±


    ¡°I think a husband and wife should contribute equally in whatever roles they¡¯re suited for. The responsibility of the couple should be equal. For me, it takes two to tango, so they should both take care of each other.¡±


    He was shocked by what Gina told him. He hadn¡¯t imagined this side of her.


    GINA


    ¡°Do you know what Janice and I dream of? Her dream is to graduate and be a full-fledged ountant, and I will be a writer or maybe a fashion designer. And most of all, we dream that we find a prince charming and a knight in shining armor. Just like our dad who is kind, responsible, loving, and those who are ready to defend us at all times, and of course those family-oriented men whose family reallyes first.¡±


    ¡°Good thing that Janice already had Payton plus they also have a baby now.¡± She added. ¡°And you know if I have children, I want stability for them and a sense of ce. I¡¯ve worked hard to develop a career where I can work at home so that I can share my life with them.¡± She stopped abruptly, as if she¡¯d revealed too much to him.


    ¡°And how was getting married at the age of twenty-five connected to your dreams?¡±


    ¡°I just want to be young enough to enjoy my children,¡± of course she wouldn¡¯t tell Ace that she was afraid of being an old maid when she passed the age of twenty-five, that¡¯s their family beliefs.


    Ace angled her direction. ¡°So for now, you want to have children?¡±


    ¡°Maybe if we¡¯re really married, of course I want to have children.¡± She saw Ace¡¯s serious face, that¡¯s why she decided to test his reaction further. ¡°Honestly, at this age, I¡¯m really ready to get married. I¡¯m supposedly at my sexual peak, you know.¡±


    Oh yes! It¡¯s super effective! She immediately saw the reaction of Ace by frowning.


    ¡°If only we were really married, Ace. I wouldn¡¯t mind waiting for a year before startin¡¯ a family so that we could have time to experiment.¡±


    ¡°What kind of experiment are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°You know. Make love whenever or wherever the mood strikes. I¡¯ve heard from those who have been married for a long time. Once the kids are around, the couple should be more careful. It¡¯s just like you can¡¯t wander around the house anymore. Wearing just boxer shorts and wearing panties.¡±


    He crossed his arms. ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s SPG in the eyes of a child, you know.¡±


    ¡°You know Gina, I really like you because you can imagine anything.¡±


    ¡°Tell me the truth Ace, aren¡¯t you really going to turn on me when I¡¯m just wearing this?¡±


    ¡°You know already the answer, Gina. Is that why you wore my clothes to attract me again?¡±


    ¡°Oh no, you read Maryam¡¯s note that she threw away all my nightgowns. She actually changed them, but it¡¯s lingerie.¡±


    ¡°We need to end our conversation, Gina. We¡¯d better just go to sleep.¡±


    ¡°But our topic is interesting,¡± she said.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got a good imagination, Gina. But finish it in your dreams.¡± Ace rose from his seat.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do that. How about a little inspiration to take with me?¡±


    He justughed out loud. ¡°You might be pretty much attached to me, sweetie.¡±


    ¡°So what are you agreeing with?¡±


    ¡°I guess I¡¯m obsessed with your willpower Gina, so I¡¯ll grant you that, but take note, It has a limit.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about, Ace? The little inspiration I was talking about was a good-night kiss, that¡¯s all.¡± Sheughed at Ace because she knew he gave a different meaning to what she was saying.


    ¡°If you really kiss me, I don¡¯t want just a smack, I want the kiss I can dream of.¡±


    ¡°Amending rules again, Gina?¡±


    ¡°Why? Do we have rules that vite the good-night kiss? I don¡¯t remember we talked like that.¡±


    ¡°All right, since you¡¯re the one who asks, so you¡¯re the one to kiss.¡±


    ¡°My pleasure.¡± she pulled herself towards him, and she locked her gaze with him for a moment. ¡°I¡­ don¡¯t know how to start.¡± She whispered to Ace.


    His expression turned fierce, then Ace cupped her face with both hands and held her to him. Their mouth connected a few desire-filled moments. He tasted so good, so damn good. His tongue yed with hersnguidly, but suddenly he pulled back. Oops! Hanging again? she sighed dreamily.


    ¡°It¡¯s fifteen seconds, it¡¯s a long time enough.¡± He said and released her immediately. So she was dted.


    ¡°You counted?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just guessing, but I think that¡¯s more than a smack. What do you think, Gina?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why others say that you seem to lose yourself when you feel a kiss. Nah, I don¡¯t believe it. You couldn¡¯t just get lost in the moment, and most of all if you really felt a kiss, you can¡¯t even count how long it will take.¡±


    ACE


    He thought about what Gina said. ¡°Maybe you¡¯re right, because even though you aroused mest night by responding to my kisses, it¡¯s true that I¡¯m not losing myself. In fact, I know now that you have a mole on your chest and buttocks. But of course I can¡¯t tell you what else I see. It¡¯s awkward if I tell you those things.¡± He said, and pretending to turn off the light so that Gina can¡¯t react to him again. He avoided himself from falling in love with Gina. The fact that he couldn¡¯t offer her permanence. And even more so now that he knows how important a stable home meant to her, because that¡¯s something she can never give to Gina.


    ¡°I still thought our honeymoon had an extension. But I guess, the honeymoon is definitely over.¡± she grumbled in response.


    ¡°I will sleep now Gina, I¡¯ll be running tomorrow morning. Maybe I¡¯ll be back around nine.¡± He said as he walked heading to his room.


    ¡°I¡¯ll just cook you breakfast.¡± She called.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to bother anymore, Gina.¡±


    ¡°I want to. Don¡¯t argue with me about it. And at least that way I¡¯ll pay you for everything you did for me. Goodnight, Ace.¡±


    ¡°Sweet dreams.¡± He whispered and entered  his room.


    *****

 Chapter 20

    ACE


    It was past nine in the morning when he arrived at Gina¡¯s house. Because one of his daily routines is jogging every morning. He was sweaty and his clothes were very wet. He took a towel which he wrapped around his neck and wiped his face. His mind felt clearer now, he ran for more than two hours only to avoid the tempting lure of uninterrupted contact with Gina. Although he does not want to admit himself, he is really tempted by his wife especially with her teasingugh and her charming smile. Yet, contentment washed over him and he was less worried about Gina¡¯s security now that they were married. However, their rtionship changed hourly, it seemed that their situation forced them closer. Still reluctant to. But he can¡¯t just give up, and he shouldn¡¯t fall in love with Gina. Heaven helps him, because he doesn¡¯t know what to do if that happens.


    As soon as he entered the house, he immediately smelled the aroma of coffee. He leaned against the door after he closed it, he closed his eyes and breathed the homey smells. He could get used to this, he said to himself. He even heard Gina singing again, so he immediately went to the kitchen where her voice wasing from. He found her cooking and when she turned to him, she gave him a sweet smile.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Good morning.¡± She greeted him. ¡°I hope you¡¯re hungry, because I made you pancakes and omelette.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t usually eat breakfast.¡±


    GINA


    Her eyebrows rose at what Ace had said.


    ¡°But since you¡¯ve already prepared that. I¡¯ll just eat thatter after I take a bath.¡±


    ¡°Just take your time Ace, and by the way, I like your grungy look now.¡± She was shocked by what she said to Ace. She thought that only in the novels she read that she can find those attractive and sweaty men. She might be dead wrong, because it¡¯s in front of her now. Or maybe it was just this sweaty man whose long muscr legs were revealed enticingly by the running shorts he wore, and whose t solid abdomen was bare to her gaze between the waistband of his shorts and his hacked-off t-shirt. OMG! He looked so gorgeous and attractive with his unshaven face and intense, wait¡­ green eyes? Why only now did she notice that he has these green eyes?


    ¡°What did I hear again? That you like my grungy look now?¡±


    She was shocked when Ace suddenly pulled her waist closer to him so that she could sink into his wide chest. ¡°Even my smell now, did you like it too, Gina?¡±


    She sniffed and tipped her head back, and deliberately covered her nose as if she didn¡¯t like the smell. But the truth is, he smells so good. Promise! In fact, he turned her on. Sweat and all, it¡¯s so tempting. So she couldn¡¯t really stop herself from caressing and feeling Ace¡¯s sweaty body, until her hands dropped to his stomach. Sending her body into a 40 degree celsius.


    ¡°Wait, please!¡± he said hoarsely. ¡°Don¡¯t repeat that please!¡± Without saying any words again he turned his back on her.


    Ace entered the bathroom and she heard the murmur of water one after another.


    After a few minutes of showering, Ace finally came out. She poured orange juice on his ss and she put fried rice and omelette on his te.


    ¡°You spoil me.¡± He said softly.


    ¡°I like to cook. I hope you like to eat.¡± She said as well.


    ACE


    He rxed visibly as she handed him the te. Gina also took her own te and decorated her pancakes.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t eaten home-cooked food in a long time,¡± he said as they sat down in front of the dining table.


    ¡°Even me, I haven¡¯t eaten here at home for a long time. Since Janice had a boyfriend, she¡¯s only visited me here once in a month. If I¡¯m the only one eating here, I¡¯ll miss them even more and I also miss cooking them.¡±


    ¡°So you really want someone here at home?¡±


    She nodded. ¡°Janice is really the one I want to be with here, but she can¡¯t leave Mama.¡±


    ¡°What are your ns for life, Gina?¡± he asked hesitantly.


    ¡°You really want to know what my ns are? Well, I want a home base job, the type who just writes even though writing doesn¡¯t work out for me. I also have a passion for sewing, I think it¡¯s profitable. Beyond that, I guess I want what most people want. Like having my own house and lot, and of course having a loving husband and cute children.¡±


    He stared at Gina for a moment and then he finally managed to speak. ¡°Whoa! I¡¯ll admit to you, you really surprised me with your old-fashioned goals.¡±


    ¡°I think getting married and having children is my primary goal. It doesn¡¯t matter if I just be a seamstress.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be defensive. I know you want to achieve a lot more in life, apart from marriage and sewing. From what I see of you Gina, you are an achiever. And I know you have more ns for your life.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been self-supporting for over five years. So the need pushed me to learn that kind of skill, but my passion for it keeps me going.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s time-consuming, you know.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s worthwhile, and besides, I¡¯m a homebody person, Ace.¡±


    Every time he thinks of the difference between him and Gina, it reminds him even more that they don¡¯t really meant to each other. If he wanted to advance within his field, he¡¯d have to move, maybe several times over the course of his career. That is why he does not want to have his own family in his kind of work where he will be sent anywhere based on his mission. And even more, he can¡¯t imagine having a homebody wife like Gina if he doesn¡¯t have a permanent address. Especially that she said she wanted a stable home for her children.


    GINA


    After they had breakfast, she and Ace helped one another on washing the tes. She noticed that Ace was quiet and seemed to be thinking deeply so she decided to keep quiet. She smiled at her thoughts that if someone sees them washing the dishes together, they will be mistaken for their sweetness. If only they were thinking the same thing.


    ¡°Do you want to see your nephew again?¡± Ace sudden question aroused her imagination.


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll just take you to the hospital because I have more things to take care of.¡±


    ¡°Won¡¯t you even go with me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll just follow you there when I¡¯m done taking care of some things.¡±


    Their honeymoon is over, but he can¡¯t be with her yet. ¡°What if they look for you? Payton even said that I will take you to the hospital so he can talk to you man to man. He will be d to see you. I just thought, how does Payton feel as a young father?¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s fun, imagine he already has a child at twenty. And by the age of forty maybe your nephew will graduate from college.¡±


    ¡°Ace, do you miss your dad?¡± She asked him all of a sudden.


    ¡°I missed everything about him.¡± Ace serious response.


    ¡°I thought you were still seeing each other up to this day.¡±


    ¡°Yes, we still meet until now.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you even invite him to our wedding?¡±


    ¡°I invited him.¡±


    She waited for him to continue speaking, but instead, Ace suddenly went silent.


    ¡°Will you introduce me to your father?¡±


    ¡°Someday.¡± He quickly replied. ¡°All right, Gina, get dressed, I¡¯ll take you to the hospital now.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 21

    GINA


    As they boarded the car to the hospital. She still thought of asking Ace about his childhood. She was intrigued because she knew very little about him. But, will Ace answer her? She first examined the expression on his face. He was concentrating on driving, his gaze shifting to the rearview mirror a lot, as well as he carefully looked at the street.


    ¡°Tell me about your childhood?¡± She said suddenly. ¡°Now, I want to know about your mother.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about her.¡±


    ¡°Why not? Are you mad at her?¡±


    He hesitated for a few seconds. ¡°Part of me will never forgive her.¡±


    ¡°Why what happened, Ace?¡±


    ¡°He took me away without my father¡¯s consent.¡±


    ¡°She kidnapped you?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t use that word. That¡¯s not what happened.¡±


    ¡°But you said she took you away from your father? Where did she take you?¡±


    ¡°In Spain. Spain is my mother¡¯s birth country.¡±


    ¡°Why, what really happened to your parents, Ace?¡±


    Ace tapped his fingers against the steering wheel, and she thought he wouldn¡¯t open up to her, but he did.


    ¡°My Mommy took a vacation here in the Philippines when she was eighteen. My grandmother is half Filipina and half American while my grandfather is a full blooded Spanish with blue blood. While Mommy was on vacation here for a few months, she met my father, who was twenty-three at that time and a Law student. In other words, they are in love with each other and it seems like no one can separate them. Before Mommy return to Spain, they secretly get married even against the wishes of her family. Maybe if my grandfather hadn¡¯t intervened, we are a whole family. At that time, my grandfather was a powerful man not only in Spain but also in the Philippines, so it was easy for him to manipte people. When my grandfather found out about Mommy¡¯s marriage, he tried to separate my parents because he was an influential person, he used his connection in order to separate my parents totally.


    ¡°So your grandfather is the reason why you moved away from your father?¡±


    ¡°In the beginning it wasn¡¯t like that, Gina. I was two years old when Mommy took me to Spain. Grandpa allegedly told Mommy that he would ruin Daddy¡¯s career if she didn¡¯t separate him, and if Mommy didn¡¯te back to Spain. Daddy was busy reviewing and at that time, so he was pressured for the uing Bar Exam. Daddy just found out that my grandfather had taken us to Spain, and the worst is that she even signed the annulment papers. He thought that maybe Mommy was just upset because he didn¡¯t have time for us. Daddy didn¡¯t sign the annulment, but Mommy was persistent to break him up. He knew there was a deep reason, so he followed Mommy to Spain before the Bar Exam. But he just saw Mommy with someone else with her. So he attacked the man, and the man was beaten hard. So he was imprisoned there in Spain, andter he was also released because of Mommy¡¯s request to Leon to drop thewsuit in exchange for her marriage. But what Dad didn¡¯t expect was that it was theirst conversation with Mommy because she didn¡¯t want to see him anymore, and she also decided to separate from him. From the beginning, Daddy promised himself not to be desperate and miserable and just pursue his dream of bing a full-fledgedwyer, and to show Mommy and my grandfather that he is not a loser. So he persevered and became top at the Bar.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t your Mommy do anything before to fight your Daddy?¡±


    ¡°Mommy is an obedient child so maybe she was easily brainwashed by grandpa. Grandpa tried to separate Mommy and Daddy because he had arranged a marriage with my Mom and Leon ¨C the son of his business partner.


    When Daddy became a full -fledgedwyer, he still couldn¡¯t forget Mommy so he went to Spain again, and he used every means to speak with her to rify everything to them, and also to get us back. When grandpa found out about Mommy¡¯s reunion with Daddy and her n to escape from his custody, he took Mommy and me away again and took us to Boston. And that¡¯s where I grew up.¡±


    She tapped Ace¡¯s right shoulder. ¡°Your parents¡¯ love story is heartwarming.¡±


    ACE


    He took Gina¡¯s hand which she used to tap, holding her for a moment. ¡°But what¡¯s even sadder is when my father received the news that Mommy and I died in a car ident, after their annulment was granted. He didn¡¯t know what to believe, but when you¡¯re as powerful as my grandfather, you can make anything happen. He proved our death. And when Dad saw the evidence that we were dead, he could do nothing but ept it.¡±


    ¡°How did you find out all about this, Ace?¡±


    ¡°Daddy told me. And I also found out about it from Mommy, because she said she couldn¡¯t hide the truth from me. After her and Dad¡¯s annulment, she married what grandpa had arranged a marriage with her. Until Leon and she had a child. Two girls. And since my siblings are girls, my grandfather doesn¡¯t trust them to run a business. My grandfather sent me to Harvard and asked me to take a business course because he said I would be his sessor. But after I learned about my father, I became obsessed with wanting to meet him. So after I got my degree at Harvard, I ran away from them and started on my own. And this is where I ended up in the Philippines because my father was also here.¡±


    ¡°How about your stepfather, when did you find out that he is not your real father?¡±


    ¡°When I understood everything, he was kind to me, but he still treated me differentlypared to his two children. That¡¯s why I always felt the difference because I¡¯m not his real child.¡±


    ¡°Why is it that your grandpa didn¡¯t make your stepfather as his sessor?¡±


    ¡°Because he also runs his own business and he managed it. So my grandfather spent a lot of time raising and educating me because I was supposed to take his ce when he retired.¡±


    ¡°Your family is rich, Ace, why didn¡¯t you go back to Spain when you already found your father?¡±


    ¡°Because I don¡¯t want my grandpa to manipte me again, I¡¯m happy now to live freely, I don¡¯t need to live in luxury.¡±? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    ¡°Why did you work in a restaurant and not in bigpanies? I wish you had gotten a higher position, Ace.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s better if we start at the bottom, Gina, we¡¯ll learn a lot of things.¡±


    When they arrived at the hospital, he immediately looked for a parking space. After he parked his car, he continued his story.


    ¡°After graduating from college, I made my way out of the States and I went here to the Philippines to find my father, knowing that I knew very little Tagalog.¡±


    ¡°Did you see your father right away? What was his reaction when he saw you?¡±


    He held the steering wheel tightly while looking through the windshield, remembering. ¡°He cried andughed. He hugged me very tightly. Because he even thought we were dead but he still hoped that wasn¡¯t true.¡±


    ¡°How did you feel when you saw him?¡±


    ¡°Of course I¡¯m happy because I¡¯ve finally seen my real father,¡± and now his grip on the steering wheel has loosened. ¡°But I¡¯m sad for my mother. Daddy is a good person. He would have given her a fine life if she¡¯d let him. After the initial euphoria, I went through an angry period, I was angry with my Daddy because he sensed that we were still alive, but he didn¡¯t look for us. I thought that he had already given up on us. But even though I just learned to forgive him. I also thought about how little the government can do to help find stolen children, especially when the legal guardian takes the child.¡±


    ¡°Have you seen or talked to your mother since you left?¡±


    ¡°Once, when west met, we were like strangers to each other. I call her asionally, as well as my two sisters. I talked to them at least once a month. Aya, the one who followed me was now married and had a child, then Lauren, the youngest, just graduated from college.¡±


    He saw Gina scratching her head. ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect your life to be that challenging. You didn¡¯t have a normal childhood, either.¡±


    ¡°For me, life is really confusing. At that time I thought Mommy was happy with Leon, but I couldn¡¯t understand why she got depressed. That¡¯s because she went through a lot.¡±


    ¡°Of all the things you¡¯ve been through Ace, what do you believe the most now?¡±


    ¡°I believe in rules more, because if people just follow the rules, there is less chaos. I also believe that parents should not dictate their children. And most of all I believe marriage is forever, unless there is abuse, physically or mentally.¡±


    ¡°Me too, Ace, that¡¯s what I also believe.¡± She said.


    His eyes widened. ¡°But ours isn¡¯t a real marriage, Gina. We had no choice, this is the only solution I can think of.¡±


    He let out a deep breath. Gina didn¡¯t know him very well. She didn¡¯t know either on what he was doing.


    ¡°What are you afraid of Ace, that we should be true to all of this? Why not? I know we are attracted to each other.¡±


    ¡°Think what you want to think, Gina. Just me, I don¡¯t feel that way.¡± He said and looked at the small purse she was holding.


    ¡°Did you bring your cellphone?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s here.¡± she opened the small purse and showed him the cellphone inside. ¡°Just call me when you need me, Ace.¡±


    ¡°Huh, that would be my line, Gina.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 22

    ACE


    He just shook his head when he saw the list of schedules attached to Gina¡¯s kitchen cab. For he¡¯d never known anyone who listed their household chores day by day. Today was Tuesday-ironing day, based on her written schedule today. But he was d that she¡¯d decided to take a nap after visiting her sister in the hospital. He just hoped she was not upset with him because he didn¡¯t follow her in the hospital.


    He looked around the kitchen, it was orderly neat and clean. The written schedule she told him does indeed reduce stress. He even remembers that Gina said that she didn¡¯t have to think about what she would do every day because it was already written. And she doesn¡¯t need to remind herself to clean because that¡¯s part of her daily routine, along with her school and work.


    ¡°Whoa! I¡¯m so impressed with Gina. Everything is spotless.¡± He said softly to himself.


    When he nced at the clock, he thought that he needed to wake Gina because they were going to go to workter. He slowly opened the door to Gina¡¯s room and saw her sleeping soundly. Then, memories of her body lit his mind. Beautiful, smooth, white and surprisingly curvy ¨C those are the external qualities of Gina that make her even more attractive.


    He eased close to the bed and was hypnotized by her bare shoulder. Tempted beyond thought, he knelt and pressed his lips to the warm, smooth skin of her shoulder de. But when she suddenly moved, he was startled.


    ¡°Hey, Gina! Wake up.¡± He woke her up and shook her shoulder.


    ¡°Hmmm?¡±


    ¡°Wake up now.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm?¡± she still didn¡¯t move so he shook her shoulder again. ¡°Wake up.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s up to you if you don¡¯t want to wake up. Tsk, it¡¯s really hard to wake you up.¡± He said and turned his back on her.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re here, Ace.¡± She quickly got up and hugged him from behind. ¡°I know you kissed me on the shoulder. Is that your own version of Prince Charming waking Sleeping Beauty?¡±


    He shrugged and walked towards the door. ¡°Don¡¯t believe too much on the fairy-tale romances you read.¡± He said to Gina before he left her room.


    GINA


    She slumped down on her bed when Ace got out of her room. But even so, she was still smiling because she caught him kissing her shoulder. Meaning he couldn¡¯t stand her being irresistible.


    After a while, she heard a loud knock on the door of her room, and maybe because she didn¡¯t say a word, Ace entered on purpose.


    ¡°Would you like to¨C¡± Ace was stunned and they both couldn¡¯t move.


    ACE


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t expect that¨C¡± he just swallowed on what he saw. ¡°You¡¯re still getting dressed.¡±


    Gina quickly turned away from him. ¡°Would you like to help me get dressed?¡± She asked as she hooked her bra.


    He stepped back a little as Gina put on her bra. But it was as if his feet were nailed because instead of turning around or leaving the room, he just stood there watching Gina.


    He came closer to Gina and snatched the hook on her bra. ¡°Let me.¡±


    ¡°So you can no longer stand it, Ace?¡±


    He grabbed both of Gina¡¯s shoulders to face her. Then he looked straight into her eyes. ¡°Yes, I can¡¯t stand it Gina, but I can take care of it. It wouldn¡¯t take long but a minute.¡±


    ¡°Jerk.¡±


    He justughed at Gina¡¯s answer. ¡°You¡¯re the only one who told me that.¡±


    ¡°Then, you¡¯re a gay.¡±


    He grabbed both her shoulders again and said, ¡°Are you really challenging me, Gina? Do you want that something will happen us now? I can make you climax right here and right now if that¡¯s really what you want.¡±


    ¡°What are you waiting for? Then do it.¡±


    But he was the first to resign. So she just continued dressing.


    Gina gave him a once-over look. ¡°You¡¯re gay, at least I¡¯ve proven it.¡± She said.


    ¡°You¡¯re so funny, Gina.¡± He said andughed out loud.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t marry you Ace, so you could make me an entertainer.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the only one who makes meugh like this.¡± He replied as he left her room.


    ¡ª¨C


    He was really tired from running that morning. For almost two weeks of sharing space with Gina had given him a short fuse, and running really helped him to indeed reduce the tension in his body.


    Argh¡­ Gina was the cause of it all.


    Gina had done so much for him. She cooked his meals and ironed his clothes. Also, she always cleans his bedroom and fixes his bedding.


    Last night while he was watching her sewing a negligee for Maryam¡¯s new product line, she didn¡¯t sleep all night because she really finished it. Then she left the nightie andces in the room he upied, leaving also the scent of her that he could smell when he woke up in the morning.


    Lately, he noticed that Gina stopped teasing him. Maybe, she was only waiting for him to make the first move. But his need for her intensified with every unintentional sway of her hips, every cheerful ¡®Good morning and Good night¡¯, she was still enticing to look at.


    I hope that the deal with Brando Nics will be over soon, he said to himself.


    When he reached the alley, he stopped running and just walked. He was half a block away from Gina¡¯s boarding house when he saw a ck BMW parked right in front of Gina¡¯s house. The tinted window of the passenger door glided down as he approached. He bent down a little so he could see who was inside, but he suddenly remembered that he didn¡¯t have a gun.


    ¡°Mr. Durant, join me for a minute.¡± Brando Nics could make amand seem like a party invitation, he thought.


    ¡°My sweat is dripping so it might fall on your expensive upholstery.¡±


    ¡°Get in.¡± Brando said.


    He opened the door and slid in, activating the mini recorder in his pocket as he settled in the seat. Brando gave him a towel, took it and wiped it on his sweaty face, then rubbed his hair leisurely while eyeing the man who was dressed impably.


    Brando leaned back and crossed one leg over the other. ¡°I haven¡¯t asked you yet, how¡¯s your honeymoon?¡±


    ¡°Too short.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you take some time? Or go somewhere exotic?¡±


    ¡°You know the answer to that.¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes.¡± he said as he took a cigarette stick from the pocket of his suit, then lit it and blew the smoke at him. ¡°So, you¡¯re waiting for me to decide.¡±


    He just nodded in response.


    ¡°Your terms are generous. And my current supplier has gotten greedy. But something niggles me about you.¡± Brando said.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    He grabbed the door handle and opened it. ¡°You¡¯ve danced one, but too many two-steps for me. I¡¯ll just tell my boss that it¡¯s better for him to just find another partner.¡±


    ¡°Step out of this car and you¡¯re dead.¡±


    He stopped. He has already encountered many low-profile people. But none of them set him on edge like this educated, intelligent and sophisticated high profile man. At least the scumbag had been predictable. ¡°What¡¯s your problem, Mr. Nics? Don¡¯t you think that I am highly rmended to you? I work clean, Mr. Nics. Not even a single policeman smelled of our illegal transaction recently. Besides, I¡¯ve already facilitated your transfer amounting to millions.¡±


    ¡°I still don¡¯t seem convinced by what you¡¯re saying, Mr. Durant. I¡¯ve checked you out but it¡¯s nothing I can put my finger on.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s reasonable that we don¡¯t trust each other,¡± he angled towards Brando. ¡°I¡¯ll be honest to you Mr. Nics, in this kind of work, I live better. So if you really don¡¯t want to make a deal with us, please tell me now. Did you know we turned down our other dealers because you had already arranged a deal with us. In fact, we have the same purpose here, Mr. Nics.¡±


    ¡°Not quite the same,¡± and he was again puff up the smoke of his cigarette. ¡°I¡¯ll be in touch.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll give you one more extension, just tell me, you know where to look for me.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll deal when I say so, Mr. Durant. And also tell your wife to be careful. If you don¡¯t want to be a widower.¡±


    ¡°Is that a threat, Mr. Nics?¡±


    ¡°Just a reminder, Mr. Durant. idents might happen. Brakes fail. Drive-by shootings are bing rampant nowadays. Isn¡¯t it stressful? What else can happen tomorrow? So now, Mr. Durant, I¡¯m going to tell you this, maybe one day when you wake up in the morning she won¡¯t be with you anymore.¡±


    He finally got out of Brando¡¯s car being careful not to m the door or show any emotion at all.


    He immediately called his boss Mr. Del Valle and informed him of such conversation he had with Brando. But his superior advised him to take Gina away to another ce, or maybe his superior just reassigned him to another ce.


    ¡°You¡¯re too personally involved here, Agent Taurus.¡± His boss said.


    ¡°If you pull me out sir, you¡¯ll never get Brando Nics. I will tell the parents of those three women that we found their killer, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Not at the expense of your wife¡¯s life, or yours.¡±


    ¡°Honestly sir, I¡¯m much more afraid for her. Just like yesterday when her car broke down, good thing is Agent Phoenix and Agent Moon already watch her when I can¡¯t. But I can tell you now sir that she would never agree to leave town. Not without concrete facts.¡±


    ¡°Maybe you should tell her.¡±


    ¡°No sir, if you only knew her. She¡¯s a kind of girl who wants to be involved. Maybe she¡¯d want to help catch him. She isn¡¯t trained for this, sir. I can¡¯t take that risk. ¡±


    From the other line he heard his boss sigh, and it made him wonder at his chance for career advancement.


    ¡°Okay. We y it your way for now. Let¡¯s talk tomorrow morning about some extra security.¡±


    ¡°Thank You, sir.¡±


    After sitting for a few minutes thinking of a strategy, he took off his wet clothes and went into the bathroom to take a shower. Brando Nics might be dominant and in control, but he will never let him hurt Gina.


    He ced his head in the shower spray, then squeezed some shampoo into his palm. When he¡¯s done shampooing, he soaped his body and rinsed off, then stayed a little longer under the shower, letting the cool water loosen his muscles. At least he still has an hour¡¯s allowance before he picks up Gina from school. But he was suddenly startled by the sound of the security rm. He just waited and counted. After more than twelve seconds, the rm also stopped sounding. But it¡¯s too long. More than eight seconds must be too long. After all, the rm system will not sound for that long when the person entering knows its security code.


    He just let the water continue to flow, then he stepped out of the shower, wrapped a towel around his waist and picked up his gun from the vanity. Three doors essed the bathroom, one from the living room and one from each bedroom. But all that is closed. His face was also very wet as he just waited for the main door to open. He took a deep breath as the lock was turned on the person outside. He took a small step to the main door. And when the door eased open. He immediately pointed the gun at whoever entered. ¡°Freeze.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 23

    GINA


    She stiffened and was stunned as the gun that Ace was holding was pointed at her head.


    ¡°My God, Gina,¡± Ace said and immediately lowered his gun. ¡°Why did youe home so early?¡±


    She swallowed before answering. ¡°I called you. But you didn¡¯t answer. Myst subject was canceled.¡±


    ¡°I could have killed you,¡± he said desperately. ¡°I almost killed you.¡±


    On some level she noted the horror in his voice ¨C the fear, the relief and the frustration. But she didn¡¯t care about all that when she saw the wet and half-naked body of a Demigod. Broad shoulders, check. Hard chest, check. Sculpted muscles, check. Six-pack abs, check. Pure masculinity all in all. But wait, she hasn¡¯t asked about the gun yet. Why does he have one?


    ¡°You have a nice body with abs.¡±  She said, instead. ¡°You¡¯re incredible¨C¡±


    She didn¡¯t finish what she was going to say because Ace suddenly hugged her. He kissed her repeatedly on the face until his kisses fell to her lips, kissed her with the passion of a man who¡¯d just found salvation. She wrapped her hands around Ace¡¯s neck, opening her mouth to his nipping teeth and exploring tongue, moaning over her eptance of the invasion. Ace fingers dug into her hair and he stopped for a moment to stare at her before he grabbed her again with a kiss. He dragged her impossibly closer, enveloping her in his arms as he tucked her under his chin, his arms are like vise from which she couldn¡¯t escape. She also felt his heartbeat, while his breathing was harsh and deep.


    ¡°No more,¡± Ace said harshly. ¡°No more waiting.¡± He immediately tore her blouse and removed her bra, all the while he carried her towards her bedroom. Heid her on the bed and kissed her again. His hands were exploring every inch of her body, teasing her with a tenderness that made the fast and furious removal of her clothes even more erotic. Ace knelt in front of her to remove her shoes. And then, he also took off her jeans along with her panty. He pressed his face to her abdomen and breathed deeply. Overwhelmed by how he cherished her, she went weak. When he stood again, she saw lust and desire written all over his face.


    She didn¡¯t speak, afraid that if she did, the moment would have passed away.


    Ace groaned when she roamed her hand around his body. She caressed his back slowly. Her other hand was touching his abdominal muscles. He held her hand and guided her. She gasped at the hardness that she felt in her hands. Ace closes his eyes and moans at the way he feels about it. He let her explore him. Then he cupped her face and kissed her hardly that she couldn¡¯t breathe. She feels at home once again. His kisses make her feel like this, as always like her safe and at home.


    ¡°Now,¡± she whispered to him when their lips parted. ¡°Oh, I need you, Ace. I need you so much.¡±


    ACE


    His expression turned fierce, he stared at his wife¡¯s beautiful body for a while, then kissed her again deeply. He turned her around and touched her breast from behind and gently kissed the back of her ear. His soft kisses went down to her neck, to her shoulder and down to her body curves. He lifted her and made her sit on the bed. He kissed her earlobe down to her nape and slowly traveled to her back while his hands caressing her bossom.


    Heid her on the bed again and shower kisses to his wife. He groaned as their bodies touched, arched up as if the contact alone would send him over the edge. ¡°Oh, Gina.¡± he whispered her name.


    But before she could wrap her legs around him, he slid down her, scraping his unshaven jaw against her, trailing his open mouth along her skin. When he took her luscious nipple deep in his mouth and suckled her, she wrapped her arms in his head, holding him there. He sucked her left breast in his mouth again, then his tongue teasing the top of it with a gentle bite.


    ¡°Oh, Ace. Aahh¡­¡±


    He rose above her, then he removed the towel that had been wrapped around his waist. His manhood was exposed in front of Gina. Her eyes widened as if shocked at Adam¡¯s visible nakedness. His gaze never waved hers, he slid a hand to her knee and pulled her legs over his hip, holding her still. Gina closed her eyes when he parted her legs widely and positioned himself into her.


    ¡°Gina,¡± he said softly in her name. ¡°Look at me.¡±


    GINA


    She forced her eyes open, then he inserted his manhood. ¡°Aaaahh¡­¡± she yelled as tears welled in her eyes. Not even half of her had entered his manhood but it was too painful for her. The power of it shocked her and tears really welled up in her eyes.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Damn! I¡¯m sorry¡­ I thought you were¡­ but we can stop this.¡±


    ¡°No, Ace. I want this. I want you. Take me.¡±


    ¡°All right, I¡¯ll be gentle.¡± His voice wasn¡¯t soothing, but strained, as if convincing himself as well, enticing her further. ¡°Let it happen, sweetie.¡±


    And even though her eyes opened, she was blind to everything. It¡¯s up to Batman or Spiderman, she thinks. What¡¯s important to her is that she has given herself to the man she loves no matter what the consequences.


    ¡ª¨C


    ACE


    He felt her whole body soften beneath him. He didn¡¯t want to look at her, he didn¡¯t want to see her expression in the aftermath, because he was even more guilty. He had to say something to her, but he had no idea what. He immediately regrets what happened. He¡¯d never broken his word before. And just because of this damn desire he can no longer control himself. He would only hurt Gina more, so it would be better for her to hate him now instead ofter. The happy times they had shared a while ago suddenly became meaningless.


    He saw that Gina was moving and she seemed to be shaking so he quickly clung to her. He hugged her backward, tucking her close so that she couldn¡¯t look at him. He stroked the back of her, tracing her smooth silky curves down to her butt.


    ¡°Are you cold?¡± He asked immediately.


    Gina suddenly turned to him and touched his chest while one of her thighs was resting on his side.


    ¡°No.¡±


    Instinct told him that if he apologized to Gina for what he had done, she might just not ept it. Even though it wasn¡¯t in his n but he couldn¡¯t really control himself at that time, so then what shouldn¡¯t have happened already happened. And he can¡¯t tell Gina that it¡¯s just a mistake because for him, it¡¯s just cowardice and cruelty.


    ¡°That was an amazing experience,¡± she said sighing and caressing his chest.


    He let out a deep breath before answering. ¡°Yes.¡±


    GINA


    She couldn¡¯t speak again so she just hugged Ace. God, she was naked except for his ne, her teasing of Ace had already happened. So what now? Will anything change between them? He wasn¡¯t drunk when he had sex with her. So, maybe that¡¯s not a mistake.


    ACE


    ¡°You know Ace, I believe in opposite attracts.¡± She said as she continued to caress his chest which only aroused his desire.


    He reached for her but she suddenly avoided him.


    ¡°Wait,¡± she said. ¡°I just love to watch your body change like this. Everything gets harder. Your thigh, your stomach, your hand, and even your jaw. Your whole body gets aroused.¡±


    Ah, Georgina, how innocent you are. How temptingly open, how beautifully made. So now he doesn¡¯t wonder why she¡¯s still a virgin not until ¡ª


    ¡°Why did you lie to me? Why did you tell me before that you¡¯re no longer a virgin?¡±


    ¡°I thought¡­¡±


    ¡°Do you know you¡¯re so tight and so soft, sweetie?¡±


    ¡°Am I?¡±


    ¡°Of course, you are.¡±


    ¡°Sorry Ace, maybe I just wanted you to think of me differently so I said that.¡±


    He grabbed both of Gina¡¯s shoulders and pulled her toward him. He kissed her full mouth and groaned as he felt her softness. His kiss became even more selfish. He cupped her breast with his palm and loved it when she moaned against his mouth. He lowered his kisses on Gina¡¯s neck down to her breasts, and kissed its peaks. He also licked and sucked her nipples. ¡°Oh it¡¯s hard now. Even harder in a minute.¡± He said and pressed again his kiss on Gina¡¯s breast until she moaned. Then he kissed her lips again, moving against her with aching sweetness as his tongue flicked against the corner of her lips. He wanted her again. He can¡¯t deny it. Damn nobleness. He would die if he didn¡¯t take her again.


    ¡°You fill me so tightly, sopletely.¡± She said as their lips suddenly parted, then she touched his cheek. ¡°I think we really like each other, Ace.¡±


    He didn¡¯t know what he could tell her, he just smiled and kissed her again. Rekindling every piece of desire in his body. He was taken aback as he ced Gina on top of him, and used her thigh muscles to ride him. She guided his throbbing manhood into her entrance. She moaned at the pleasure of his manhood inside her. They once again danced their bodies as they did a few hours ago, slowly at first, then faster and more powerfully. He pressed a thumb to the hot core of her and rubbed her clit lightly. ¡°You get hard here, sweetie.¡±


    He was stretching his arms behind her to rest his hands on her thighs. With his eyes he followed the sway of her breasts, the lift of her pelvis, the fascinating motion of her thigh muscles contracting, rxing, contracting, rxing. He brought his other hand into y and sent her over the top, relishing the sounds that were filtered from her. Then just as she rxed forward, he rolled her over and pushed hard, rhythmically and relentlessly, taking her up again. He kissed her passionately with his demanding mouth, their tongues mating as slickly as their bodies, their driving rhythm creating a force so powerful, and when they both couldn¡¯t hold it anymore, he shifted their position and finished the prolonged pleasure.


    ¡°Oh, Ace¡­¡± she moaned softly.


    ¡°Gina ¡­¡± he groaned back.


    A few more thrusts, a few more arching lifts, then he held her buttocks as he gave her hisst thrust, and they both reached climax. They were both gasping for breath. And finally he drowned in a deep sleep.


    *****

 Chapter 24

    ACE


    He woke up when he heard the sound of his cellphone. No, it wasn¡¯t a dream that he slept with Gina. Instead of picking up his cell phone and answering it, he was still dumbfounded and could not barely move from where he was. So Gina herself answered his caller.


    ¡°Just a minute, please,¡± she said to the person on the other line and handed him the phone.


    ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°Hello bro, I assume your wife is okay. She¡¯s the one who answers the phone, right?


    He turned to Gina. ¡°Yes. Why? Did something happen?¡±


    ¡°I followed her after her ss, then she and her colleagues entered a coffee shop. I really wondered why her ss ended so early. I also went to the coffee shop but she was gone.¡±


    ¡°Where are you now?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m on the road driving.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s very obvious, though. Are you free? I would like to talk to you.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t be with you bro, I¡¯m heading to Maryam¡¯s shop.¡±


    Gina suddenly clung to him, she was still not dressed so he continued to be distracted.


    ¡°Ahm¡­¡± he can no longer think clearly. ¡°Ah¡­ is that so, right now?¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t you hear me, bro? I¡¯m going to Maryam¡¯s shop right now because they were attacked by the bad guys.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± He sat up straight. ¡°When?¡±


    ¡°A while ago.¡±


    ¡°Okay. I¡¯m going there.¡±


    He turned to Gina and she stared questioningly at him, he quickly stood up. But in his haste, he did not notice that only one nket was covered over their bodies. He pulled the nket upright, and Gina¡¯s body was exposed. He just swallowed by what he saw. Then he turned to the person on the phone again. ¡°When you get there, just wait for me.¡±


    GINA


    She just stared at Ace as he was getting dressed. She was about to ask Ace something but suddenly something took over her mind. That¡¯s right, something is going to change. Because after what happened to them, she became even more in love with the man. True, their marriage has changed because they have shared the deepest intimacy like a real couple. Something has changed because she is no longer a virgin. She had already given up her victory g to her husband, but of course she also wanted that. She just hoped that he would feel the same way, too. Her presence just returned when Ace suddenly spoke.


    ¡°The thugs attacked Maryam¡¯s shop.¡± Ace said after getting dressed. ¡°I need to get there.¡±


    ¡°Me, too.¡± She said.


    Ace approached her and tapped her on the shoulder. ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good idea.¡±


    She stood up, and now she dressed right in front of Ace. But he averted his eyes from hers.


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°Many of you are curious, Gina. But right now, the ce isn¡¯t safe there because there might be stray bullets.¡±


    ¡°In that case, what do you think of yourself? Iron Man or The Man of Steel who can¡¯t be hit by bullets? If you can go, I can go, too. Maryam is also my friend. So I also want to help.¡±


    When she finished getting dressed. Ace looked at her again. ¡°No, you stay here.¡± He firmly said.


    ¡°I can¡¯t understand Ace, why are you so close to Maryam?¡± She said tentatively.


    ¡°She¡¯s easy to know. Easy to like.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, she¡¯s the most down-to-earth person I¡¯ve ever met. But what exactly is your connection to her?¡±


    ACE


    He just ignored Gina¡¯s question to him, instead he read the text from Noel.


    From: NoelN?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Bro, let¡¯s go to Maryam¡¯s shop together so you can drive me. I¡¯m still sleepy because I didn¡¯t sleepst night.


    To: Noel


    You idiot, you¡¯re going to make me your driver? But it¡¯s okay, as long as after ten minutes you should be here.


    Message sent ¡­


    ¡°What did you say again, Gina?¡±


    ¡°What is your connection with Maryam? Why are you close?¡±


    ¡°There aren¡¯t many people I call friend, Gina, but Maryam is one of them.¡±


    ¡°What about me?¡±


    He didn¡¯t immediately answer Gina¡¯s question. Her eyes were full of anticipation, and she was just waiting for his answer. What could he say to her? Friendship was the least of what he felt. But after the lovemaking¨C


    ¡°What about me?¡± she asked him again.


    He didn¡¯t say a word and instead he caressed Gina¡¯s cheek and traced her lips with his fingertips. After a few minutes of staring at each other, someone suddenly blew a horn, and he used it as an excuse not to answer. He looked out the window and Noel arrived just in time.


    ¡ª¨C


    Thirty percent of Maryam¡¯s products were destroyed before the police arrived. And he knew it was revenge on Maryam when she helped Gina escape from Brando.


    ¡°My insurance will cover the losses.¡± Maryam told him. ¡°But the dys in getting the goods to the stores will be devastating. If I can¡¯t fill the orders, the results will show up next season in reduced orders. A smart businessman like Brando understands that.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll get him, Maryam. I promise you that.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what Johnny told me, too. But still, it hurts. I¡¯ve worked hard for so long to get to this point. I was just gettingfortable enough to take some time off.¡± She sighed. ¡°Thanks for checking on me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a good thing that Judge didn¡¯t leave you alone.¡±


    ¡°Even if it¡¯s sad, but every time you think that you have a lot of sympathy, your sadness will be alleviated.¡± Maryam said with a forced smile. ¡°Have you told Gina about Brando?¡±


    ¡°Just a little detail.¡±


    ¡°What are you waiting for Ace?¡±


    ¡°Right time.¡±


    Maryam tapped him on the shoulder. ¡°Do you know something I¡¯ve learned, Ace. The right time doesn¡¯t evere on its own. The right time is always a choice you make.¡±


    He really thought about what Maryam told him, until Noel took him to his father¡¯s house. He still doesn¡¯t want to see Gina because he¡¯s getting more and more guilty. He also knows that they still have an unfinished business. But he was tired of fighting his feelings, especially after what happened to them this morning.


    ¡ª¨C


    ¡°I¡¯m so stupid,¡± he said as he looked at the big garden in his father¡¯s house. ¡°I don¡¯t know how that happened. I thought, I can control everything.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re just a man, Ace.¡±


    He turned and crossed his arms. ¡°That¡¯s all? Is that all you can advise me as a father? I didn¡¯t use protection, Dad. What if¡­ God. I can¡¯t believe that it didn¡¯t really cross my mind.¡±


    ¡°Maybe she took pills.¡±


    ¡°If she did take pills, why didn¡¯t I see her drink? But I wonder why she put condoms on my room.¡±


    ¡°Is that so, maybe she left it there in case you brought another woman home.¡± His father said smiling.


    He¡¯s just scratching his head. ¡°If I get her pregnant, I won¡¯t leave her. I will be a father to that child.¡±


    ¡°Is it just the possibility of her pregnancy that you¡¯re afraid of, son?¡±


    ¡°Of course. What else?¡±


    His father leveled a look at him. ¡°I hope you will learn from my experienced son, and ept what you cannot change. Maybe that¡¯s the signal that you need to tell her the truth.¡±


    ¡°If I tell her the truth, I don¡¯t want her to live in fear. I know she¡¯s also worried about Brando Nics even if she insists on not showing it to me. If I tell her the truth, she¡¯ll fear him a hundred times more than she does now. And my only chance to keep her safe is to keep her ignorant.¡±


    ¡°I think you don¡¯t give her enough credit, son. You know her, you can convince her to leave and go somewhere else.¡±


    He knew that in the tone of Brando¡¯s words when theyst talked, he might be trying to take Gina¡¯s life. ¡°Because of me, her life was in danger. So if I take Gina away, Brando might even say that¡¯s a weakness on my part. I¡¯d be dead.¡±


    ¡°Damned if you do. Damned if you don¡¯t.¡± His father said.


    ¡°And no matter what happens Dad, I have to protect her. Because I know in my heart, that she is safe with me.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 25

    GINA


    She couldn¡¯t wait to go home. She really sped up her usual work so that she could go home immediately. Her husband is on the day off now, so he¡¯s probably waiting for her at home.


    Oh, her husband. Finally she could say the words honestly. She parked the car in front of her house, and as soon as she got out of the car, she immediately looked inside the house to see if her husband was already there, because she was wondering why the house seemed so quiet. She just smiled at the thought of what else could happen to them tonight. But she thinks maybe it¡¯s better if she¡¯s the first to arrive so that she can prepare for this night. Finally, she can wear the see-through red nightie that Maryam gave her on her birthday.


    Many things are ying on her mind now. That she will prepare a candlelight dinner to make their night more romantic and she will also prepare wine so that they can drink.


    This is really the night she has been waiting for. The night she can finally call their ¡®Wedding Night¡¯. And tonight she will also tell Ace that she loves him.


    ACE


    He is sitting slouch on the sofa, thinking while waiting for Gina. He remembered what happened to them this morning, so now he let out a deep breath one after another. But when he heard the rm system ringing for a few seconds, he immediately sat straight. That was a sign that Gina had arrived.


    ¡°Hi! Hows work? Is it tiring?¡± He said immediately as Gina entered the house.


    ¡°You surprised me Ace, you¡¯re already here. But no, I¡¯m not tired.¡± She said smiling. ¡°In fact, I want to take a shower. Do you want toe with me?¡±


    Instead of answering Gina, he turned his back on her and walked away. He didn¡¯t even expect Gina to follow him. Just the hopeful look in her eyes builds up the fire of guilt already burning his stomach, that¡¯s why he can¡¯t face her too long.


    ¡°Ace?¡± She called him.


    Face him Ace, don¡¯t be a coward. Then he turned to face Gina. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    He just stared at Gina and didn¡¯t know what to say. ¡°Let¡¯s sit down first.¡±


    GINA


    She¡¯s confused now by Ace¡¯s behavior, because she doesn¡¯t expect his mood to change. ¡°Is there something wrong with what I said?¡±


    ¡°Why did youe home so early?¡± Ace asked her again.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you that myst subject was suspended. I also went home with one of my ssmates. I called you but you didn¡¯t answer, so I just texted you so you wouldn¡¯t bother to pick me up.¡±


    ¡°I was thinking a lot this morning. So, I forgot to look at my cellphone.¡±


    ¡°I knew you¡¯d be home to shower after you ran, so I figured out that you get my message. I would also like to tell you something ¡­¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I noticed a guy at school earlier.¡±


    ¡°Did he do something to you?¡±


    The ferocity in his voice startled her. So she tried to calm him down. ¡°No. I just noticedtely that there is a man at school who always follows me. Everywhere I go, he is there and always looking at me. That¡¯s why I needed to get away from the campus before he could follow me all the way home.¡±


    Ace rubbed a hand across his face. While she couldn¡¯t decipher his expression.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother picking me up from school. I can protect myself. I¡¯ve taken self-defense sses before, so I know a little bit about self-defense.¡±


    ¡°Okay. It¡¯s up to you.¡±


    She was surprised by Ace¡¯s quick response. She didn¡¯t expect that to be his reaction.


    ¡°Why did you take so long to ess the security code this morning?¡± Ace suddenly asked.


    ¡°Since we got married, I rarely set the rm system. I was totally nk this morning so I forgot the code. I was supposed to go through the bathroom door but I left the key here at home. So, I just guessed your code until I got it right. What I didn¡¯t realize when the door opened was that I¡¯d have a gun pointed at my head. Do you have a license for that?¡±


    ¡°A permit. Of course there is.¡±


    Ace stared at her, straight to her eyes. ¡°If anything happened today, it was a mistake.¡±


    She just hugged herself and contradicted what he said. ¡°It was wonderful.¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s still a mistake.¡±


    ¡°Maybe, for you. But for me, no.¡±


    She saw he scratched his head. ¡°I won¡¯t excuse it. I was responsible. It¡¯s all my fault.¡±


    ¡°Well you know, Ace,¡± she said and stared at him. ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything at that time to attract you, and I didn¡¯t force you.¡±


    ¡°Gina, I didn¡¯t mean to¨C¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°That¡¯s bullshit, Ace. For the first time-maybe, maybe I¡¯ll believe you didn¡¯t really mean it. And I¡¯ll forgive you because we were just carried away by the heat-of-the-moment excuse for the first time. But you made love to me for the second time. That¡¯s calcted. Because you had plenty of time to think.


    ¡°You are right.¡±


    She stepped closer to Ace while her mouth was shaking. ¡°So now?¡±


    ¡°Now, let¡¯s go back to where we started.¡± He replied.


    She didn¡¯t say a word and instead justughed out loud.


    ¡°Gina, I know it¡¯s a lot to ask, because I know you don¡¯t understand me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, and go ahead and exin to me what happened. Just make sure that thest thing I want to hear is yourme excuses. So, that would be a charged of experience?¡± She said with a raised eyebrow. ¡°cing me isn¡¯t going to help. I also have to ept some of the me because I had expectations that didn¡¯t match yours. It¡¯s not just your fault. Now, there is a bridge between the two of us. But sometimes, we were going to have to cross it or burn it.¡±


    It was as if she had a sore throat when she said that. Damn him. Damn him. But she loved him. She really loved this numb man too much. She loves him even though she can¡¯t understand him. And she still loved him even though he regretted what happened to them. Because he believed in the rules to prevent chaos, that¡¯s why he¡¯d convinced himself he was doing the right thing.


    What she felt now is the ache of rejection. Because she realized that the person she loves the most is the hardest person to love.


    ¡°So,¡± she said with a false cheer. ¡°Tomorrow we start anew.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a big favor for me, Gina.¡±


    ¡°Yeah! I¡¯m just a hell of a woman, honey pie.¡±


    She was about to turn her back on Ace when she suddenly remembered something. ¡°Why were you carrying a gun earlier? Who did you expect toe?¡±


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect you toe. I thought it was a robber.¡±


    She was hurt by what Ace told her, but deep in his eyes she saw apology and pain, too. The glimpse into his soulforted her, and gave her hope.


    You don¡¯t have a clue, Ace Roderick Durant III. That I am the best thing that ever happened to you. And I will never give up on you.


    *****

 Chapter 26

    GINA


    ¡°Grrrr¡­ it¡¯s really annoying when your car breaks down again.¡±


    That¡¯s the word she¡¯s always been saying these past few days. ¡°Why did it take so long to repair my car?¡± She asked Ace as he drove her to school.


    ¡°Because your car is very old, the mechanic said. He said he¡¯ll just call us after he repairs it.¡±


    ¡°Am l not bothering you with your constant driving me to school?¡±


    ¡°Not really.¡±


    ¡°You probably won¡¯t be able to run because you¡¯reing home toote from school.¡± Ace looked at her for a moment. ¡°It doesn¡¯t bother me.¡±


    ¡°Well, it bothers me.¡± she grumbled in response while slouching in the passenger seat. ¡°Why don¡¯t you let me rent a car while my car isn¡¯t repaired?¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯m avable to pick you up.¡± He sighed. ¡°All this togetherness is¨C¡±


    ¡°Driving you crazy?¡± She stumbled because she didn¡¯t know what would be the answer of Ace. Does he think she¡¯s not having a hard time with their situation? This man is really numb. ¡°I can already see that you¡¯re like my bodyguard who¡¯s always close to me now. You didn¡¯t even let me walk alone. But at midnight, you¡¯ll just leave me alone. Do you think I didn¡¯t know that you go out every midnight? Now, tell me. What do you do outside at midnight? Or shall I say, at dawn?¡±


    ¡°I am developing my own business right now. So, I go out at midnight or at dawn because it¡¯s the only time I can meet my business consultant.¡±


    ¡°Who is that business consultant of yours? And why do you have to meet at midnight or early in the morning?¡±


    ¡°He is a regr customer of ours at the restaurant and he is a member of the club.¡±


    ACE


    Finally, Brando Nics was finally cooperating after two or more aborted attempts to meet. Even if he only sends his staff to negotiate with them, at least, that¡¯s the beginning.


    He red at Gina, and he also stared at her critically.


    ¡°Is that so? Just make sure you don¡¯t meet other woman.¡± She said softly while looking out the window.


    The words hit him hard. ¡°What did you say? Is that what you worry about every time I go out at midnight?¡±


    ¡°Well, it makes sense. It¡¯s not normal for us to be together as a couple, so I thought¨C¡±


    ¡°How can you even think of it?¡± He said, while he pulled into the drop-off area in front of the campus and turned off the car¡¯s engine.


    True, their marriage was not normal, so he really wanted to finish this mission. He didn¡¯t want to be pampered by her because he might just get used to it. Yes, he was her husband in fact, but not in deed. Despite what she thought, he wasn¡¯t superhuman. ¡°I never thought that my honor would be in question.¡±


    GINA


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to offend you.¡± She apologized. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for what I said to you. But I really appreciate your effort in bringing me to school everyday. I only know a few men like that.¡±


    ¡°And you think I¡¯m one of them?¡±


    ¡°Maybe,¡± she replied, while eyeing him spectively. ¡°And I also know very few men with guns. Unless he¡¯s one of the¨C¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t get what you mean, Gina.¡±


    She raised her hands and started counting with her fingers. ¡°Would you like me to list my fears, Ace? First, I¡¯m worried about why you have a gun. Second is my safety. Third is Brando Nics. They¡¯re all tied together somehow. I just don¡¯t understand why at night you operate the business you call. Tell me the truth, did Brando Nics have anything to do with it?¡±


    ¡°And why did you think Brando Nics had anything to do with it?¡±


    ¡°Because more than anyone, you¡¯re the only employee in the restaurant assigned to the club famas, and somehow you¡¯re also a member there. You already know the businessmen who are members there and especially Brando Nics. So, is he the regr customer you are referring to that you are asking for business advice? because honestly, I don¡¯t trust what he says.¡±


    ACE


    He angled toward Gina and touched both of her shoulders. ¡°Do you know that Brando Nics is more angry with me now because I take you from him? In fact, we don¡¯t like each other, and that¡¯s pretty obvious.¡±


    ¡°So, it¡¯s just a male territorial thing? Because I understand feeling territorial. All women do.¡±


    He grabbed Gina¡¯s arm to stop her. ¡°Please don¡¯t.¡±


    But Gina just removed his hand, and kept opening the door of his car. She didn¡¯t go out the car immediately, and instead she turned to him as if to say something.


    ¡°Just answer my question, Ace. Are you working for Brando Nics?¡±


    When he didn¡¯t answer, Gina was about to get out of his car. Within an instant, he grabbed Gina¡¯s arm and spun her toward him.


    ¡°Did you know Brando Nics runs a massive prostitution here in the country. And do you think I¡¯d want to work with that kind of person?¡±


    Gina struggled to get out of his grasp. Frustrated though, he let go of her hand to clench the steering wheel and look out the window.


    Gina finally got out of his car, and she quickly took her bag which she put on the dashboard.


    She did not leave yet, and instead she returned her gaze to him. ¡°I think, when you trust someone,¡± Gina said in a calm tone. ¡°You have to trust himpletely.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°I also think you might bete for your ss.¡±


    He winced as she mmed the door. He just hope she believes in his little alibi.


    His gaze still followed Gina, until she entered the school building. He saw Agent Phoenix standing there, and he saw him in a geek disguise as he waved at him. So that¡¯s when he calmed down. He started now the engine, needing to figure out where he can go from here.


    *****

 Chapter 27

    ACE


    Brando Nics went to the restaurant that night. Meanwhile, he ordered his bodyguard to call him.


    ¡°Why did you call me? Do you need anything?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get together tonight.¡± Brando replied.


    ¡°All right.¡± He said sparingly when he noticed that Gina was looking at their gesture with her forehead furrowed.


    It¡¯s a good thing that Gina isn¡¯t serving Brando Nics now, because he noticed his wife¡¯s strange behavior.


    ¡°Have you received the verification of your deposit?¡± He asked Brando again.


    ¡°If I hadn¡¯t, you wouldn¡¯t be standing here.¡± Brando replied and turned his back on him.


    When Brando Nics was about to leave, he turned to him again. ¡°By the way, does your wife know about your little side business?¡±


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t need to know.¡±


    ¡°Really? I just noticed something different about her. I hope I¡¯m wrong. I don¡¯t like loose ends.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t threaten me, Mr. Nics.¡±


    ¡°What if I threaten you now?¡±


    ¡°I am not threatened without the resources of my own, Mr. Nics.¡±


    Damn it, Gina. Stay put. Brando Nics already noticed her actions, he said to himself. But he became even more nervous when Gina stepped closer to them. He looked at his wife with a hint. She immediately came next to him, then she slid an arm around his waist and leaned against him as he tugged her closer.


    ¡°Gina, my dear. You¡¯re looking exceptionally beautiful tonight.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because marriage agrees with me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I can see that. So, am I forgivenst Valentine¡¯s day?¡±


    Gina took his hand and entwined her fingers to his.


    ¡°Of course. You didn¡¯t know that Ace and I are already together.¡±


    He almostughed at what Gina said to Brando. Maybe she thought that she was protecting him in some way. Suddenly, they were distracted by the neers. They were all looking at Maryam whose arm was still anchored to Judge Soler.


    ¡°Behave, Johnny.¡± Maryam said to the Judge, and then she cleared her throat. ¡°Good evening, everyone.¡±


    He saw that Judge was holding Maryam while he guided her in their direction. He also noticed that Judge seemed to be getting younger now, and Maryam was blooming as well.


    ¡°Oh, Brando, you¡¯re here. I thought you were at Roman¡¯s house for N¡¯s death anniversary.¡±


    Brando suddenly turned pale at what Maryam said. ¡°Is today N¡¯s death anniversary?¡±


    ¡°Oh yes. Have you forgotten, Brando? N is your wife, you should know that.¡±


    ¡°Wait,¡± he called Maryam as they started to turn away. ¡°Are you going to Dad¡¯s houseter?¡±


    ¡°No, we just met at Gardenias Cuisine. Roman asked me if we had met because he hadn¡¯t seen you in weeks now. He also reminded me of N¡¯s death anniversary. Of course, I won¡¯t forget that because N is my favorite niece.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°I thought you and N were just distant rtives, I didn¡¯t expect her to be your niece.¡±


    ¡°Life is full of surprises Brando, isn¡¯t it? I¡¯ll leave you for now, good evening.¡±


    Brando visibly pulled himself together after Maryam and Judge Soler left. ¡°Well, I think I have to go.¡± Then he bid them good-night.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to be embarrassed to face that man, especially with what I know about him.¡± Ginamented as Brando left. ¡°Aren¡¯t we going to do anything to stop him from spreading prostitution?¡±


    ¡°And how can you stop him, then?¡±


    ¡°We will report him to the police so that he can be imprisoned, and so that he will be stopped on what he is doing.¡±


    ¡°Believe me, I¡¯m not happier about this than you are.¡±


    ¡°In that case, we¡¯ll find a way to stop him. Wait, I¡¯ll go to Judge Soler so he can help.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother, Gina. It¡¯s being handled.¡± He couldn¡¯t tell her anything else. Maybe Brando will notice her even more. If she knew more, she¡¯d reveal more. God, what a mess.


    ¡°How do you¡­ never mind. You don¡¯t like a lot of questions, right Ace?¡±


    Right, Gina. It¡¯s good that she¡¯s not bothering him right now. ¡°I have to go out tonight.¡±


    GINA


    She didn¡¯t answer and instead turned her back on Ace, knowing she had to get back to work. Knowing she had to break the tempting contact. For too many days, they hadn¡¯t touched.


    She has reached the kitchen but she is still ufortable. She was still convinced that Ace was indeed working for Brando Nics. So she thought of going back to Ace to enlighten her about her doubts.


    ¡°Ace?¡± She called him. ¡°Why do you have to go out now? Did you hear what Maryam said? It was Brando¡¯s wife¡¯s death anniversary who happens to be the niece of Maryam. Maybe he won¡¯t see you again today.¡±


    ¡°Leave it alone, Gina. You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    She crossed her arms. ¡°So that¡¯s it. Do you think I¡¯m not worried about you going out at midnight?¡±


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t worry about me anymore. I¡¯m not doing anything wrong. Please trust me.¡±


    She smiled reluctantly at him. Anyway, she wanted the awkwardness between them to end. Because since something happened to them, it seems that their rtionship with each other has really changed. She really wants to get their old rtionship back, like during the first two weeks of their marriage, when nothing happened to them.


    She took a little step closer to Ace and whispered to him. ¡°Did you notice Maryam and Judge Soler a while ago? They look so sweet.¡±


    ¡°No, because I¡¯m not like you, Gina.¡± He said sarcastically and gave her a lopsided grin.


    ¡°I know you noticed them.¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.. it¡¯s up to you. But who would have thought that Judge Soler and Maryam are getting along well.¡±


    ¡°Gina, just don¡¯t care about them, okay?¡±


    ¡°Okay fine, whatever. Wait, I forgot to tell you something. Since tomorrow is Saturday and I don¡¯t go to school. I¡¯ll go shopping for my mama and my nephew. I¡¯ll just borrow your car. And don¡¯t forget to put your key on the table so you don¡¯t need to wake up early tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Hey Gina! If you didn¡¯te here,¡± Ruby shouted at her. ¡°I¡¯ll just take the tips for you.¡±


    ¡°Coming,¡± she shouted at Ruby.


    But before she went to Ruby, she looked at Ace with mixed concern.


    ¡°Be careful, Ace.¡±


    ¡°I will, sweetie.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 28

    GINA


    She was annoyed the next morning because she couldn¡¯t find Ace¡¯s car key, and she thought he might have forgotten to put his key on the table. She looked at the clock. It was ten o¡¯clock in the morning. She knew that Ace came home in the morning. Even against her will, she needs to wake him up because she wanted to get her grocery shopping done, so she could spend the afternoon with her family and nephew.


    God, she¡¯s tired of finding the key. She really wanted to wake up Ace. But suddenly something entered her mind. What if the key is in his pocket? Well, she wouldn¡¯t mind crawling under the nket with him and sleeping a while.


    She was just shaken by her thoughts. She really needs to spend some time away from the boarding house by herself. For that she needed a car key.


    She has no other choice but to enter the room of Ace. She was now in front of the door of his room as she carefully turned the lock. When she entered the room, she saw Ace sleeping soundly. She tiptoed in and searched the keys with her eyes. But she still couldn¡¯t see the key, she headed to the chair where he¡¯d draped his jeans. She immediately took it and searched for the pocket.


    ¡°If you act like that, you¡¯d make a lousy spy.¡± Ace said in a husky tone that obviously he was awake. He got up and stared at her. ¡°Do you know how strong you are to sigh when you¡¯re upset?¡±


    She dropped Ace pants on the floor because she was even more annoyed.


    ¡°Then I must spend a lot of time sighing these days.¡±


    But Ace justughed at her.


    ¡°Come Here.¡±


    ¡°I do not want to.¡±


    ¡°But why?¡±


    ¡°Just don¡¯t order me.¡±


    ¡°Come here, please, Gina.¡± he said, and he patted the bed beside him.


    Gina sat, tucking a leg under her. She was shocked when Ace touched her chin and stared into her eyes. ¡°Are you not feeling well?¡±


    ¡°No, why?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t look well.¡±


    She averted her chin from his grasp.


    ¡°I¡¯m just tired, that¡¯s all.¡±


    Ace touched her forehead. ¡°Why are you hot?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. You¡¯d better just give me your key so I can go now.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll drive you.¡±


    ¡°But I want to go alone,¡± she pronounced each word distinctly. ¡°I¡¯m getting tired of this set-up, Ace. I also want to be alone sometimes. Besides, if you¡¯re there, we¡¯ll only spend twice as much. Because you¡¯re an impulse buyer.¡±


    ¡°Did you know that I enjoyed grocery shopping for the first time when we were shopping together.¡± He said softly. ¡°I really learned a lot from you, especially when shopping for vegetables and meat. Don¡¯t you really want to take me with you?¡±


    ¡°What did you eat today and your taste is different now?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. I just want to be with you, Gina.¡±


    The sincerity of his face irritated her as much as it ttered her. She just raised her hands. ¡°All right. I give up. You win.¡± Then she gives him a sultry smile.


    ¡ª¨C


    ACE


    ¡°Are you okay? You look like you¡¯re not feeling well?¡± He said to Gina when they got home from the mall. He immediately lowered the stic bags he was carrying to touch Gina¡¯s forehead, knowing already that she was feverish. ¡°My God, Gina. You¡¯re so hot.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel so good,¡± she said softly while reaching the counter table for support. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s because of the flu that was rampant now at school.¡±


    Fortunately, he quickly grabbed Gina¡¯s arms because she was about to fall. The heat from her prated his clothes and warmed his own skin.


    He assisted Gina to her room and opened the door. When Gina entered her room, he was about to close the door when he saw that she had difficulty in removing her shoes.


    ¡°Sit.¡± he said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t order me. I¡¯m not a dog.¡± She said.


    ¡°Did you know that our marriage vows include the word ¡®Obey¡¯? He muttered as he crouched before her and slipped her shoes off.


    ¡°Those marriage vows are not important to us. You promised that you would love me forever, but we know that is not true. So, I could not promise to obey because there is no truth in our oath.¡± She said andy down on the bed with her eyes closed.


    Guilt is on top of everything he was dealing with. ¡°Sorry,¡± he whispered. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean that. What do you want to wear now?¡± He asked and he was just malicious in what he was saying.


    ¡°Can I wear your t-shirt?¡±


    He took a t-shirt from his closet and started to take off Gina¡¯s top, leaving with her bra on. When he put on the t-shirt he had chosen for Gina, his hands brushed her body as he felt the warmth of it. And Gina¡¯s eyes just kept closed the whole time.


    ¡°Do you have a thermometer here?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Gina could barely open her mouth.


    He just looked for her thermometer in her medical kit. Fortunately, he didn¡¯t have a hard time finding it. He immediately took the digital thermometer and inserted it into Gina¡¯s armpit. He held it for a few seconds until Gina fell asleep. When the thermometer made a sound, he immediately took it and checked how much temperature she had registered. And ording to the result it was 38. 5 degree celsius, bad enough. He nowbed his wife¡¯s hair as he watched her sleep peacefully.


    A few minutester, he went out of her room to call the doctor on what he should do to the person with a fever. After talking to the doctor he returned to Gina while he was carrying a small basin and a pitcher of water. He put them on the side table and sat down next to his wife. He just watched her as he dipped the white face towel in water and squeezed it. He woke Gina up so that she could take the medicine, then he put the white towel on her forehead. He helped her to lie down again and then left the room.


    He called the restaurant and informed their Manager that Gina was ill so she could not tender her duty. He also informed the manager that he took a leave that day, but the manager did not allow him to leave due to the number of guests who reserved for them tonight. But the manager said that he can only get out early, but he can¡¯t be absent.


    He¡¯s not used to this because he¡¯d never taken care of anyone before. He just sat next to Gina and watched her as she slept, wondering at the feelings of tenderness and worry. But there is no other meaning to how he feels. Of course he will take care of her as a wife. Because even if he forces himself, it won¡¯t work. She¡¯s a homebody, and he can¡¯t be. The Great Wall of China divided them with their differences.


    After a while, he noticed Gina¡¯s face was sweating. She was shaking so he wrapped her in a nket. He would have called Janice to ask her to take care of her sister while he was at work. In fact, he knows it¡¯s not possible because she¡¯s also watching over her baby. Who else will he call? Probably her mother, even though he¡¯s embarrassed to ask her mom, but he¡¯s pretty sure that she won¡¯t refuse.


    GINA


    She strained to open her eyes even though she could feel the pain of it.


    ¡°My eyes are in pain,¡± sheined about.


    ¡°The doctor said, it¡¯s because of your high fever. So here, you drink a lot of water.¡± Ace said as he walked towards her.


    She got up and immediately drank a ss of water that Ace handed her. Then shey down again.


    ¡°I¡¯m feeling pretty okay now. Maybe I¡¯m just over fatigue or maybe I¡¯m just tired.¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t get a fever if you¡¯re just tired, sweetie. I¡¯d better make you some soup.¡±


    Did she hear right that he would make her a soup? The words shouted joyously in her head. She didn¡¯t expect him to take care of her. She wanted to shout with joy, if only her throat wasn¡¯t sore.


    ¡°I want chicken soup with mushrooms please. The condiments are just in the refrigerator.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be right back. Drink more water if you can.¡±


    Maybe all she needed was rest. So she didn¡¯t want to bother her mother to watch over her, but Ace really insisted. She told him that she could do it on her own as long as he just moved the TV to her room, so that somehow she would have fun. Fortunately, he also agreed not to let her mother take care of her. Just in case, because her mother will travel far from Naga province.


    ¡°Maybe I¡¯ll be home around ten-thirty.¡± He said with mixed worries.


    ¡°Okay, then. Thank you for everything.¡±


    ¡°Just rx, Gina. It¡¯s the best thing for you.¡±


    ¡°I will.¡± She assured him as she scanned the expression on his face. ¡°Just call me if you want, so you can also find out how I¡¯m doing.¡±? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    ¡°All right, as long as you sleep well. Don¡¯t do the housework, okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    ¡ª¨C


    In the evening, Ace called her again. Her sleep is already broken because from time to time he calls her. The weight of her stomach is so heavy because she drinks a lot of water, also her stomach is full of water that¡¯s why she has no appetite for dinner. She just watched TV even though she is not interested in the shows. She looked at the clock at ten, but her mind was still very active. She just moved around the channel until a show caught her attention. She was startled when Ace suddenly came. She immediately turned off the TV and quickly went to bed and covered herself with a nket. She also closed her eyes when she heard footsteps approaching the door of her room. While she closed her eyes, she kept thinking about the show she saw on TV earlier¡­ How long will you keep your secret life from me, Ace?


    *****

 Chapter 29

    ACE


    He hesitated to knock on Gina¡¯s bedroom door. He halted, then moved forward hesitantly. What the hell happened while he was gone? He asked himself, then he moved forward to knock on the door.


    After three knocks, Gina opened the door.


    ¡°You know I¡¯m suspicious of you, isn¡¯t your identity dual?¡± She said. ¡°You know I¡¯ll be really hurt if you hide something from me, Ace. Hmm.. I just thought, you¡¯re a waiter at night and you¡¯re a mystery man at dawn. What if I¡¯m right?¡±


    ¡°So you think I¡¯m like that?¡±


    ¡°Yeah that¡¯s right, and I feel like an idiot for not having known.¡±


    He pulled Gina to sit on the bed and touched her forehead. She¡¯s still hot but not like before. He just wondered why she¡¯s acting like she¡¯s delusional now? He really doesn¡¯t know about this woman, he thought.


    ¡°Can you exin what you¡¯re saying, Gina?¡±


    ¡°Are you Zorro?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Gina stood up and turned on the TV.


    ¡°There, did you see that show?¡± She said, pointed at the television. ¡°Do you know what Zorro¡¯s real name is?¡±


    ¡°No. Because I¡¯m not¨C¡±


    ¡°But of course, you¡¯re more handsome than him, Ace.¡±


    He looked at what she was watching. ¡°We will return to the Mask of Zorro starring Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones after these short messages.¡± Said the announcer on TV.


    He was just distracted by his senses. It¡¯s a good thing that Gina doesn¡¯t know anything. But the mistake is she thinks of him as Zorro. What the heck?


    ¡°How are you feeling, Gina?¡±


    ¡°Like a cornke.¡±


    ¡°Haha.. what? Are you hungry, huh? Do you want to eat cornkes?¡±


    Instead of answering him, she justughed at him. ¡°I¡¯m still hot¡­ just put a towel on me.¡± She said while holding her forehead.


    He stood up so that he could get Gina a medicine and put a wet towel on her. He turned off the TV and even the light in her room. So the only light that¡¯s left is thempshade. Just enough to see her, but not enough to bother her eyes.


    When he returned, Gina was already lying on her bed. He sat beside her on the bed as he put a wet towel on her forehead, folded it twice.


    ¡°Tell me about some stories, Ace?¡± She said.


    ¡°What kind of story do you like?¡±


    ¡°Fairy-tale. Do you know the story about ¡®The Princess and the Frog¡¯?¡±


    He smiled as Ginay down on her bed like a child waiting for a bedtime story. He just took the wet towel from her forehead because it would just fall off. ¡°All right, let¡¯s start the story. Once upon a time¡­¡± he prompted. ¡°Once upon a time,¡± then, he began. ¡°There was a beautiful princess¡­¡±


    ¡°But lonely.¡± She groaned.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°The princess is always beautiful, but lonely.¡±


    ¡°Ah, okay.¡± He just agreed. ¡°Once upon a time, there was a beautiful but lonely princess.¡±


    ¡°Young princess,¡± she inserted again.


    He now loses his patience with Gina¡¯s intrusion. ¡°A beautiful but lonely princess who should have been married years ago but she was bitchy to her suitors, that¡¯s why they were never able to propose.¡±


    Ginaughed even at the beginning of his story. ¡°Maybe the princess you¡¯re referring to is looking for the perfect man to marry. But the problem is, no man could live up to her expectations.¡±


    ¡°Why do you say that?¡±


    ¡°Maybe she wants a man who is tall, dark and never mind, I mean handsome. He has a sense of horror, I mean humor¡­ and most of all rich.¡± She chuckled.


    ¡°Go ahead, Georgina. Continue the story.¡±


    ¡°Go on, please¡­ I¡¯m just kidding.¡± She said, and looked at him with puppy eyes.


    ¡°The princess found herself alone more and more as the eligible men in her kingdom and the neighboring kingdoms are already married to the women they loved. Then on her twenty-fifth birthday, she decided to visit her grandmother, who lived a full day¡¯s ride away from the castle.¡± He stopped talking to touch Gina¡¯s forehead to see if she was still hot. But when he could no longer feel the heat on her forehead, he just continued his story. ¡°Along the way to her Grandma¡¯s house, the princess and her servants stopped to have a pic lunch beside a pond. And of course because she is a princess, she eats alone while her attendants eat far away from her. She was envious of how they talked and had fun, and that is why she wished that someone woulde along who she could talk to. Then suddenly, a frognded smack in the middle of her vegetable sd.¡±


    ¡°Yuck!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s a clean frog. He spent all of his days in the water, you know.¡±


    ¡°Even though. He¡¯s still a frog, so ugly. But I¡¯ll just ask, who¡¯s telling you that story?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t tell.¡± Then he continued his story. ¡°The frog croaked at her, and the frog was the first to talk to her that day. She was so grateful to the little green guy that she leaned over, and kissed him.¡±


    ¡°I know what will happen next, Ace. Let me guess, the frog turned into a handsome prince.¡±


    ¡°Not quite.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Her eyes widened.


    ¡°That¡¯s the old version you know.¡± He said. ¡°In my story, the princess turns into a frog.¡±


    Gina justughed. ¡°I won¡¯t be surprised if that¡¯s what happens in your story. Of course it¡¯s a macho version of you, just go ahead and just continue your story.¡±


    ¡°But promise me first that you won¡¯t interrupt me while I¡¯m telling the story.¡±


    ¡°I will try.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. Needless to say, the princess was so shocked to find herself perched upon a mound of vegetable sd alongside this good-looking frog, her crown slipped down over one eye. The gant frog used his talented tongue to set the crown right and the princess croaked her thanks. ¡®How about a swim in my pond princess?¡¯ The frog asked. ¡°I never learned how?¡± The princess replied. ¡°Princesses never have any fun. It¡¯s a royal rule¡±. The frog assured her that he would teach her, and off they went, leaping one over the other, until they reached the water¡¯s edge.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    He wiped a wet towel on both Gina¡¯s arms up to her neck. She sucked in a breath but said nothing. ¡°Now, the princess liked adventure as much as the next person, and for a while everything was wonderful. After all, in the frog world, he was considered tall, dark and handsome, so the princess had noints there.¡±


    ¡°She must be a lucky princess.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s also what she believed. The frog protected her from the dangers of the pond. They shared a lily pad in perfect harmony. As the sun beat upon them, the water soothed their skin. All day they swam and floated as the trees shaded them from the sun.¡±


    ¡°Wow! It looks like they¡¯re happy together.¡± Gina said as she changed a t-shirt in front of him.


    ¡°Life was good for the princess and the frog. They think they are reallypatible with each other. And because this frog is so gant, he caught a fly for her dinner.¡±


    ¡°Yuck!¡±


    ¡°He really tried to feed it to the princess, but he couldn¡¯t convince the poor princess to swallow it. He tried again and again because the frog knew that the princess had to adapt to their lifestyle in order for her to survive. That¡¯s why she had to learn to eat flies. She just had to. Here, drink some water.¡± He said to Gina, helping her sit up and holding the ss to her lips. When she leaned back, he applied more cool clothes to her arms and continued the story. ¡°However, the frog was a realist, and he saw that the princess would not really survive their way of life. So he had to think another way.¡±


    ¡°Do they love each other?¡± Gina asked.


    He suddenly fell silent at Gina¡¯s question.


    ¡°Because theye from both sides of the world, so they don¡¯t deserve each other. So the frog found the courage to kiss the princess and, poof, she was human again. The princess was just sitting on the edge of the pond, then a lily pad snagged on her crown, and she was¨C ¡±


    ¡°Crying?¡± Gina guessed, and suddenly he avoided looking at her. ¡°That¡¯s sad. Fairy-tales are supposed to be happy endings.¡±


    ¡°It does. She was d for the experience because the frog had taught her something important.¡±


    ¡°Like what? Like she will eat a fly in a matter of life or death?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what seems right at that time, but it doesn¡¯t mean that she will eat flies forever.¡± He said and stroked her arm with the cloth. Then again, he continued the story. ¡°The princess climbed into her carriage, and yes, she was sad but wiser. Then at the crossroad to her Grandma¡¯s house, the carriage wheel broke, halting their progress. And do you know whoes along? It¡¯s a chivalrous stranger who helped them fix the wheel, not worrying a bit about dirtying his garments, then apanying them to her Grandma¡¯s house. The princess just watched him astride his horse as he rode beside the carriage. But take note, he wasn¡¯t tall, dark and handsome, but he was kind and he got charming eyes when he smiled. And he told her that he loved children, he also said  that he wanted a dozen of children. The princess thought that maybe she is sad because she is alone and she also wants to have many children when she gets married. The Princess thought that the stranger wasn¡¯t her Prince Charming, but her Knight in Shining Armor. The princess fell in love with the stranger. They got married and they lived happily ever after.¡±


    ¡°But what about that frog?¡±


    ¡°The frog has not forgotten the princess, even though he has already seen the female frog that he will love.¡±


    ¡°So he didn¡¯t really forget the princess?¡±


    ¡°Never.¡±


    She just looked at Gina as she tucked her hands under her cheeks. She has been silent for a long moment, and then finally she spoke atst.


    ¡°When the princess was a frog, did they ever make love?¡±


    He swallowed before answering. ¡°Yes, once. Just once.¡±


    ¡°Maybe the princess thought that¡¯s the best thing that ever happened to her in all her life.¡±


    He saw that Gina¡¯s eyes were sleepy and for a while it kept closing. He got up from the bed and touched Gina¡±s forehead, he was happy that her fever had subsided. And then he gave her a kiss on the forehead. He just stopped when he heard Gina saying something.


    ¡°Maybe I need to eat a fly, too.¡± She said and finally went to sleep.


    *****

 Chapter 30

    GINA


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you even managed to run today.¡± She said, after Ace picked her up from school.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, I¡¯m not sick.¡± He mumbled in response.


    ¡°Is that so?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t get sick.¡±


    She put a thermometer on Ace armpit so he had nothing to do. Then after a few minutes. ¡°It¡¯s registered here that your temperature will never lie, Zorro.¡± She showed him the 37. 8 degree celsius temperature.


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me Zorro. That¡¯s worse than calling me honey pie. And one more thing, I never get sick.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s not? The flu is rampant nowadays.¡±


    ¡°Well, I can stand it.¡±


    She didn¡¯t say anything, she just stared at Ace¡¯s face, and then she immediately avoided looking at him as if he was irritated. ¡°You¡¯re just afraid of getting sick because you can¡¯t wander outside these few nights.¡± Then she shed a Z in the air with an imaginary sword. ¡°Or because your operation will stop without you?¡±


    She stepped a little closer to Ace. At that time, she also wanted them to talk about their marriage, and the connection with the story he made about the princess and the frog when she had a fever. But deep inside, she wasn¡¯t buying it. The princess not being able to survive her life in the pond seemed a flimsy excuse. ¡°Just wait, I¡¯ll just get you some water and medicine, and then I¡¯ll let sir Matt know that we can¡¯t tender a duty today because you¡¯re sick.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? I¡¯m going to work tonight.¡± And he turned his back on her but¡­ he almost fell.


    ¡°Are you dizzy?¡± She said softly.


    His eyes closed and he nodded reluctantly.


    She knelt down to take off Ace shoes. ¡°Would you like help getting dressed?¡± She asked, but he shook his head. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll get you water and medicine first.¡±


    ACE


    His gazes followed Gina until she entered the kitchen. He now entered his room, immediately took off his sweaty clothes and changed. He climbed into his bed and covered himself with a nket. In truth, he really doesn¡¯t want that she will take care of him, so he doesn¡¯t want to get sick. He needed to call his boss and let him know what was going on. The discovery that Brando Nics was afraid of his father-inw had led to some surprising revtions, but the most important is, they have proven that Brando Nics is one of the international big time arms and drug dealers in the country. The knowledge gave them an advantage they¡¯d never had before, even as it presented a new problem ¨C how they could trap Brando Nics because they knew that man was cunning.


    He dialed his boss¡¯s number again and again because it was not attended. Just as he was about to run out of patience, his boss answered. ¡°Sir, I¡¯ve got a flu.¡± he said without a preface.


    ¡°Too bad.¡±


    ¡°And If not because of Gina, maybe I¡¯ll be totally knocked down.¡±


    ¡°Did you have a meeting scheduled tonight?¡± His boss asked.


    ¡°Tentatively. Let¡¯s just y this by ear. It¡¯s not a good idea sir, to show any weakness.¡±


    ¡°All right. Just stay in touch.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Fortunately, he had already put down his cell phone when Gina entered his room.


    ¡°Sir Matt has allowed us to take leave tonight.¡± Gina said, handing him water and medicine. ¡°I heard you talking to someone on the cell phone. Who is that?¡±


    ¡°My Dad.¡±


    ¡°Ahh¡­ it¡¯s Zorro the senior. Do you have a mysterious race?¡±


    He immediately took the medicine. Then hey down and covered himself with a nket, ignoring her as he could.


    ¡°Do you want me to wipe you a wet towel?¡±


    ¡°I want to sleep, Gina.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re just going to throw me away, then?¡± She asked cheerfully.


    He opened his eyes.¡±Thank you, Gina. You¡¯ve been very helpful.¡±


    ¡°You know Ace, I¡¯m just repaying you back when you take care of me when I get sick. I wish you¡¯d let me take care of you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not as sick as you, Gina.¡±


    ¡°Uh-uh¡­ okay, go to sleep. Just call me if you need anything.¡±


    ¡°I will.¡±


    ¡ª¨C


    GINA


    She hopes she knows how to interpret Spanish. She would have known what Ace was saying while he was talking in his sleep. She just stared at what he was saying¡­ What is this fool saying? Her curiosity got the best of her, just in time she saw a mini recorder under the pillow where he was lying. She taped his one-sided conversation until his eyes suddenly opened. He grabbed her by the shirt, pulling her closer to his face.


    ¡°My life isplicated.¡±


    ¡°Shhh¡­ It¡¯s all right Ace, it¡¯s all right.¡±


    ¡°Sabes lo que el hubiera hecho contigo?¡±


    Even though she tried to understand it, she still couldn¡¯t understand what Ace was telling her. Ace¡¯s face looks angry while talking in his sleep, his tone also sounds arrogant. She then thought that she didn¡¯t really know the man she was married to. She also thought that she needed to wake him up because he might continue to have nightmares.


    ¡°Ace, Ace! Wake up. Here, take the medicine.¡± She said, but instead he pushed her. The water sshed on the floor, then he grabbed her shirt again while he was still talking in his sleep.¡± Usted hacer de mi trabajo mucho mas dificil. No deberia hacer sido de esta manera, Gina. Oj nunca te conoci.¡±


    After Ace said that, he fell on the bed, his mouth twisted in anguish. She then put a wet towel on his forehead. Then she also wiped his neck and arms with a wet cloth.


    ¡°Gina.¡±


    Ace woke up. As she looked at his face, she saw signs of awareness. Then she refilled a ss of water and passed it to him, then she quickly hid the mini recorder in her pocket. While Ace was drinking, his eyes were looking at her as if examining her, then he looked down at her clothes.


    He put his drinking ss aside and looked at her again. ¡°Did I hurt you?¡± he asked weakly.


    ¡°Not at all.¡± She answered.


    Ace held her hands.¡±Did I say something to offend you?¡±


    She quickly took back her hands that Ace was holding. ¡°I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about. You¡¯re good at Spanish. Let me leave you alone for now.¡±


    By the time she returned he was asleep again, resting calmly this time, his breathing slow and even. Then she touched Ace¡¯s forehead. His fever has subsided. When she remembered the mini recorder she immediately took it out of her pocket. She feels guilty for secretly taking it and recording it while Ace talks in his sleep, but she has a hunch that she will discover something through that recorder. If she discovers something about Ace personality, so be it. At least now she would know what she was fighting for.


    ¡ª¨C


    She really couldn¡¯t believe that her hunch about Ace was true, that he was actually working with Brando Nics. Just now, Ace waste to pick her up. She also learned the trantion of what he said in Spanish through a linguist friend. From it, she¡¯d learned that Ace was working for Brando Nics and he¡¯s not just working, but he¡¯s involved in illegal activities involving huge sums of money. Mind-boggling sums. God, not just arge amount but millions.


    Her blood boils at what she knows. She was right to suspect Ace. Although she still does not want to believe that Ace is involved in illegal activities. Maybe he was just forced because of the threat of Brando Nics.


    ¡°I wish I never met you.¡± That was the phrase that repeatedly entered her mind because it was also thest thing Ace said in a Spanish dialect, when he was sleep talking. His final words in his delirium twisted the knot inside her stomach. There was no doubt he meant it. He wished he¡¯d never met her. How can she live with what she knows? Especially since he regretted their acquaintance. Could this be the sign that she should set him free? Maybe they should stop pretending to be a couple. She thought she could do everything for Ace. But¡­ give him up? She didn¡¯t know if she was strong enough to let him go.


    ¡°Gina?¡±


    Ace was there, standing before her, looking curious, and concerned and¡­ tender.


    She dropped the books she was holding on the ground, and hugged Ace tightly.


    Ace wrapped his hands around her waist. She felt warmth and strength and safekeeping.


    ¡°What happened to you, Gina?¡± he asked close to her ear, while one of his hands stroked her hair.


    I love you. Why can¡¯t she tell this to Ace? That¡¯s because of what he said when he was talking in his sleep in a spanish dialect. First, (¡°Mi vida esplicada¡±) he said she made his lifeplicated. Second, (¡°Usted hacer de mi trabajo mucho mas dificil¡±) he said she made his job more difficult. And third, (¡°Oj nunca te conoci¡±) he wished they had never met.


    She just stopped herself from crying because she didn¡¯t want Ace to see it. In her heart, she really couldn¡¯t let go of Ace. Absolutely not. ¡°I wasn¡¯t wrong in my suspicion of you.¡± She said to Ace as she pulled away from his embrace.


    ¡°About what?¡±


    She held Ace¡¯s hands, squeezing them tighter. ¡°Let¡¯s go far away here, Ace. We¡¯ll go to a ce where we can start a new life.¡±


    ACE


    ¡°What?¡± He looked at Gina eye to eye. Because he does not understand what she had said. He had been looking at Gina in the distance as if she was anxious and restless. Maybe that¡¯s the reason why she didn¡¯t pay attention to him, the fact that he came to the parking lot earlier. She might also have deep thoughts.


    Gina grabbed his elbow and pulled him to walk. ¡°Maybe we can easily find another ce to live. Do you agree with my n, Ace? That we both go far away?¡±


    He touched Gina¡¯s forehead because he suddenly thought that her fever might  return because of what she had said.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a fever. We just need to talk. And this time around, you¡¯re not going to ignore my questions. Because this is the  time I want to know the truth. No matter how painful it is.¡±


    ¡°All right.¡± he replied weakly. ¡°Let¡¯s go home first.¡± He closed the door of his car when Gina entered it, then he walked around to the driver¡¯s side. He put the key in the ignition and started the car. But suddenly two men rode behind them. The man behind him held a gun and aimed the weapon to his neck. The steel barrel of a revolver pressed icily against his neck. When he looked at Gina, she was stunned as she was also pointed by a gun at the man behind her. He nced at the rearview mirror so he could catch a glimpse of the faces of the men pointing guns at them.


    ¡°Go ahead and drive,¡± ordered the man behind him.


    ¡°Where?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here in this parking lot before I tell you where.¡±


    He is driving voluntarily at themand of these scumbags. When he looked at Gina again, she was still dumbfounded as her eyes stared at him. The talkative Gina was suddenly silent. What is ying in her mind right now?


    He gave Gina an encouraging smile.


    She also reciprocated with a forced smile.


    He nodded in return. He just hoped that she wouldn¡¯t panic.


    *****

 Chapter 31

    GINA


    Wherever they were taken by the men who swept them away or whatever their intentions, that was what confused her mind at that moment. Not only she was nervous but she was also cold, and she was not just cold, it was bone-chilling cold. Or maybe it was fear that caused her teeth to chatter and her limbs to shake. The men who swept them away now stopped the car to blindfold them and tape their mouths, adding to her fear and dread. Those men not only blindfolded them but also tied their hands behind their backs. They got them out of the car and she thinks they were moved to the backseat before continuing a drive thatsted another twenty minutes or so.


    After a few minutes of driving, she thinks they have reached where the kidnappers really intended to take them. They were hauled from the car and shoved up some creaky stairs into a building.


    ¡°Untie them now.¡±


    He turned to the person speaking. Brando Nics? But how would it happen if Ace was working with Brando Nics? Why did he kidnap them? She is even more confused now.


    When those men swept them away, she thought they were Brando¡¯s enemies so they also targeted Ace. But now¡ª


    She flinched as the icy fingers fumbled with the rope around her hands. They removed her blindfold and her eyes immediately searched for Ace. She breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Ace in the distance. She removed the tape covering her mouth and watched Ace do the same, while his eyes cautioned her to silence.


    ¡°Ah, I do love the telephaticmunication between husband and wife.¡± Brando said andughed loudly like a demon.


    Her eyes now roamed the ce they were brought to, seeing a boarded-up, dpidated room with rotting floorboards and ayer of dirt coating, plus an armed guard around them. She jumped when a big rat passed in front of her. So she took a few steps closer to Ace. But she was suddenly stopped by what appeared to be Brando¡¯s bodyguard.


    ¡°Let her. Let her be close to her husband in thest moments.¡±


    She didn¡¯t want to show Brando that she was weak, so she didn¡¯t cling to Ace, although she did move next to him. She straightened her spine, and looked up at Brando.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on, Mr. Nics?¡± Ace suddenly asked, while resting his hands on her lower back.


    His gesture alone conveyed his concern, his attempt to protect her and his need to be in charge, all at once. So she just sighed and calmed herself down.


    ¡°I have a bit of a problem, Durant,¡± he flicked his fingers down his jacket sleeve, brushing at something only he could see. ¡°Yourst transaction wasn¡¯t deposited.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible, Mr. Nics.¡± Ace said. ¡°I assure you, it didn¡¯t happen.¡±


    They turned around when the two sullen men who abducted them came. They found her bag and Ace other equipment in the car, then they handed it to Brando.


    Brando spilled an assortment of items into the floor, as well as the contents of her bag. He moved the items with the toe of his shoes.


    ¡°Boss, that¡¯s the only thing we searched inside Durant¡¯s car.¡±


    ¡°Good! Blow up his car and thene back here. I need you to watch over Mrs. Durant while her husband and I go somewhere.¡±


    ACE


    He now held Gina¡¯s hands to make her feel that she should not worry about him. God, he couldn¡¯t believe that Gina was still calm even in this situation, and he was proud of her. Amazingly, she hadn¡¯t said a word. He thought at first that she would ask Brando Nics why they were taken to that ce.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°Where are we going, Mr. Nics?¡± he asked.


    ¡°We¡¯re going to find out where my money went.¡±


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m fooling you? If I really intended to fool you, you wouldn¡¯t have seen me now.¡±


    ¡°Your pretty little wife doesn¡¯t seem to be surprised at our conversation. So she does know what you do for a living after all, Durant?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know.¡± Gina said that shocked him.


    ¡°And you agree?¡±


    ¡°Man does whatever he takes in order to survive, Mr. Nics.¡±


    Brandoughed at Gina¡¯s answer. ¡°You look like a gangster in a movie, love. Stand by your man ¨C why, are there still women like that even up to this day?¡±


    GINA


    She bit her lower lip. To be honest, what she knows about criminals is only what she saw in the movies, but she¡¯d be damned if she gave up without a fight. Because deep in her heart, she knows that Ace is not like Brando.


    ¡°I assure you Mr. Nics, that my husband was true to his words.¡±


    ¡°Such a devoted little wife you have, Durant.¡±


    ¡°Yes, and I¡¯m lucky to have her.¡±


    ¡°Indeed you are.¡± Brando replied and picked up Ace¡¯s cellphone and his gun from the floor.


    Brando bent down again when he saw the mini recorder among the things lying around. He picked it up, looked at it and examined it.


    ¡°Now, tell me love, how much do you trust your husband? Are you sure that he is not hiding any secrets from you?¡±


    ¡°I trust my husband with all my heart, Mr. Nics.¡± She answered quickly.


    He grinned at her, then at Ace. ¡°Brains and beauty. I envy you for now, Mr. Durant. But sooner orter I will have Gina, too.¡±


    No way, over my dead gorgeous body. I will never be with you Brando Nics, never.


    She saw that Brando had put the mini recorder in his pocket, so she breathed a sigh of relief for now. At least he didn¡¯t listen to what was recorded on the recorder. Brando also picked up her cellphone and it looks like he read her messages. But maybe because he hasn¡¯t read anything he can suspect. So, he turned off her cellphone and threw it on the floor again.


    She saw Brando take the mini recorder from his pocket and stare at it again.


    ¡°That mini recorder is mine. I used that to take notes in ss.¡± She stammered.


    Brando thought for a while, then shook his head. ¡°And why does your wife seem to be shaking now, Durant?¡±


    ¡°Because she doesn¡¯t want to be forced, so she is shaking right now with annoyance.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.. is that so?¡± Brando said, examining the recorder.


    Holy cow! She¡¯s really going to faint. Brando was ying the recorder and now she could hear Ace¡¯s voice. So bad that she was really tense while her knees and hands were shaking. They can now hear the conversation between Ace and Brando regarding their deal. They listened to it until the end. However, Brando repeatedly listened to the part where Ace speaks Spanish dialect while sleeping. While the conversation yed again and again, she could now fully trante the Spanish words in her head. So at that time, she wanted to be buried in the ground.


    Ace suddenly wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her closer to him. ¡°Don¡¯t trust him.¡± Ace whispered.


    ¡°Shh.. It¡¯s alright.¡±


    ¡°Do you know what he can do to you?¡±


    She didn¡¯t notice thest thing that Ace said, because her attention was now focused on listening to the part that Ace and Brando discussed about therge amount and illegal transactions.


    Then¡­ the part that she hates to hear yed over and over again.


    ¡°Ace, Ace! wake up. Here, take the medicine.¡±


    ¡°Usted hacer de mi trabajo much mas dificil. No deberia hacer sido de esta manera, Gina. Oj nunca te conoci.¡± The anguish in his voice pierced her once again. Until Brando turned off the recorder.


    ¡°I¡¯m a little confused. Were you talking in your sleep, Durant?¡± Brando asked, and he didn¡¯t dig up what other things he heard.


    She and Ace looked at each other. And Brando threw the recorder along with their scattered things on the floor.


    ¡°Burn everything they use.¡± Brando ordered his men. He faced Ace, looking smug.


    ¡°Maybe you have a final word to your wife, Durant? Just like Juliet said to Romeo that ¡®Parting is such a sweet sorrow¡­ but okay, because I¡¯m generous enough, I¡¯ll give you three minutes to talk to her.¡± Brando finally said, and then he turned his back on them.


    *****

 Chapter 32

    GINA


    When Brando closed the door, Ace pulled her closer and held her in front of him.


    ¡°Gina, I¡¯m really sorry¨C, be quiet and listen to me.¡± Ace whispered to her harshly. ¡°I¡¯m a CIA agent.¡±


    She went rigid. ¡°What?¡±


    Ace let go of her and he backed away from her a little. ¡°Brando Nics already knows my true identity. He just said that he didn¡¯t receive the money I deposited with him as an excuse to get rid of me. But what scares me the most is what he ns to do to you and he even abducted you at the same time.¡±


    She was confused by what Ace confessed to her.


    ¡°The GPS of the car and my cell phone should be ON, but when Brando blows it up we will lose the signal. But don¡¯t worry, we still have hope. Noel, the one who always follows you at school is also an agent who is my colleague. He is in charge of monitoring, so there is a possibility that he monitored us on our way here. I just hope Noel transmits our satellite signal before Brando Nics blows up my car. But as I said, we still have hope, Gina. Ourst hope is your ne.¡±


    And suddenly¡­


    They heard a loud explosion. That¡¯s why she¡¯s nervous.


    She held tightly the pendant of her ne and was amazed when its little red light came out.


    ¡°The device that¡¯s in your pendant is recharged by body heat, but it¡¯s also experimental. I checked it a few days ago and it was working, so that¡¯s a good sign. However, its signal is not as powerful as other devices. But don¡¯t worry because I did everything to keep you safe and to help rescue you, Gina. So have faith that they will find you soon.¡±


    She swallowed before answering. ¡°How about you?¡±


    ¡°I always knew the risks.¡±


    ¡°But¨C¡±


    ¡°Take this.¡± Ace handed her arge piece of wood. ¡°Let¡¯s hide here behind the door, if someone tries to open it, you will hit him with the wood.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m scared. I can¡¯t do it.¡± She said crying.


    Ace pulled her towards the front door. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of the rest.¡±


    She is scared but she has to do it if she wants to survive. She now tightly grips therge piece of wood like a baseball bat and she¡¯s ready to hit anyone who enters.


    When they heard footsteps approaching, Ace got her ready. ¡°You can do it, Gina.¡±


    She shifted foot to foot, finding a stronghold, then went still. She gritted her teeth. She lifted her grip on the wood higher. And she let out a deep breath.


    Until¡­


    The door opened.


    And¡­


    She quickly hit the person who entered first and hit him in the face causing him to close in pain.


    It was only then that she found out that the person was Brando Nics. She stared in shock as Brando Nics crumpled. Blood spilled into the floor beneath his face. She seemed to faint when he saw Brando¡¯s bloody face.


    She also lost her strength when she saw Ace being held by two of Brando¡¯s men and then Brando¡¯s bodyguards helped him beat him. They punched Ace in the face and stomach. Brando approached them and punched Ace in the face, body, stomach and Brando even stomped on Ace while still holding him in his hands.


    She also could not move from where she was standing because her arms were tightly held by Brando¡¯s other two men.


    ¡°Stop it!¡± She shouted, but they continued to beat Ace.


    She knew that her husband would be hurt by the punches and kicks he received from Brando and his men, but he didn¡¯t seem to care.


    ¡°Did you think you could get me easily? Well, you are very wrong, Durant. Which agency do you work for? Answer!¡± Brando yelled at Ace and he punched her husband in the stomach again.


    But Ace still doesn¡¯t want to talk, maybe he¡¯s just protecting the agency he works for. It¡¯s painful to see the person she loves struggling.


    ¡°Stop it, Brando.¡± She cried and cried.


    She just cried because she couldn¡¯t do anything at that moment.


    Brando stopped and approached her. She saw the reaction on Ace¡¯s face, he was struggling when he saw Brando approaching her.


    ¡°Please Brando, stop torturing my husband. I will do everything you want. Just let Ace go.¡±


    ¡°Really, love?¡± Brando said with a smile.


    ¡°Gina, don¡¯t!, don¡¯t do that. Brando, let Gina go.¡± He shouted while struggling.


    ¡°And why should I let her go? I¡¯m not that stupid, I can¡¯t let her go especially that I have now Gina in my hands.¡±


    ¡°As far as I know, you don¡¯t like women who are already married. But why do you still like my wife?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s exceptional, in fact. And I will continue to love Gina until eternity.¡± Then Brando burst outughing.


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy, Brando.¡± She said firmly.


    ¡°Yes, crazy for you, my love. So now I¡¯ll show you my craziness.¡±


    Brando pulled his gun from his waistband, and pointed it at Ace. He raised the gun and was about to pull the trigger when she screamed.


    ¡°Noooooooo¡­..!¡± She screamed aloud.


    ¡°Bang! Bang! bwahahaha..¡± It was just a joke and Brando burst outughing again.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my love, I¡¯m just about to pull the trigger of my gun. I¡¯m not going to kill your husband right away. Because I¡¯m going to kill him slowly.¡±


    ¡°Stop it, Brando, please!¡± She begged. ¡°Let him go now.¡±


    ACE


    ¡°Let go? I¡¯m not that kind enough, Gina.¡± He said, and Brando punched him again. This time in his mouth.


    He just shook out the pain and spit blood out on the floor, grinning at Brando. His right eyelid had started to swell close. He was sure at least two or more ribs were broken or badly bruised by now, while his lips continued to bleed.


    He knows that they will kill him, too. Death was always a possibility when he worked undercover, but this time, he wasn¡¯t only thinking about himself. He had Gina to think about. He might not survive, but he has to save Gina first.


    ¡°Come on love, they will take care of your husband.¡± He heard Brando say that to Gina.


    ¡°I won¡¯t go with you Brando, I won¡¯t leave my husband here.¡±


    ¡°In that case, I will be forced to drag you, love.¡±


    Gina didn¡¯t say a word so Brando dragged her by her hair towards the door.


    ¡°Ouch! what the hell Brando, I¡¯m hurting. Let go of my hair!¡±


    He saw Gina wince in pain while Brando was still pulling her hair.


    ¡°Don¡¯t hurt Gi-na, Ni-cos.¡± He said struggling because he was currently being beaten with wood on his back. He clenched his jaw for every blow, but he refused to cry out. The strips of wood pounding in his back broke, digging a splinter into his back so he is even more weak now.


    ¡°Ace!¡± Gina yelled at his name, who was now holding tightly to the doorjamb. And because Brando is strongpared to her, that¡¯s why he sessfully pulled Gina out.


    Come on Ace, don¡¯t die, because if you do, what will happen to Gina?


    Brando¡¯s staff unleashed a strong blow on his jaw. It was already too much, but he was still fighting to live, and Gina should have too. She had to survive. That was all that mattered to him right now. Brando is a murderer and it is not impossible that he will do something bad to Gina.


    GINA


    Brando still dragged her and he held her hand until they got down the stairs. This man is really cruel, in her mind. She thought of a way to get rid of Brando. She needs to behave first, she thought. Even though she knew it was impossible for her to get out of that ce because of so many guards. But she doesn¡¯t really have a choice.


    So¡­


    She bit Brando¡¯s wrist causing him to let go, so she happened to escape from his tight grip. She ran fast while Brando chased her quickly. When she found a ce to hide under the stairs, she quickly hid in the cramped space there. It was suffocating from where she was hiding, but she endured it, rather than being seen by that animal man.


    ¡°Love, do you really want us to y hide and seek?¡± She heard him say. ¡°Alright, I will y your game. But when I find you, I have a punishment for you. So it¡¯s better to show up¡­ Okay, I¡¯ll count one to three, if you still don¡¯te out, you¡¯ll regret it.¡±


    ¡°One¡­¡±


    ¡°Two¡­¡±


    ¡°Three¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve really worn out my patience, huh. But okay, I¡¯ll still y with you.¡±


    Her whole body was shaking with fear because she didn¡¯t know where Brando was. It was suddenly quiet. She was just surprised when she heard a series of gunshots, which she thought came from above. Oh God! what happened to her husband?


    Ace can¡¯t die, she hasn¡¯t even said that she loves him yet. Her stomach tightened and twisted painfully at the thought of anything happening to him.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    ¡°Russo, Albert, look what¡¯s happening upstairs, hurry!¡± She heard Brando speak again while he was talking to his men.


    ¡°Yes, boss.¡± His men responded.


    In a few moments of silence, she no longer knows what is happening in the surroundings. She grew more and more tense. But she was really afraid toe out of her hiding ce because Brando might see her.


    She stiffened even more when she heard footsteps approaching from where she was. She felt like she was going to be sick. Oh God! Did Brando find her?


    ¡°Calm down Gina, don¡¯t panic.¡± She whispered to herself.


    She was shocked when something seemed to fall on the floor. Her whole body is shaking now. Then suddenly, two men burst in. They both rolled on the floor. She couldn¡¯t see it very well because a wide pir on the opposite side of the stairs was blocking them. All she could see was Brando. He was on top of someone, he brought his arm up and punched the man in the face. The man groaned and he knelt him between the legs. God, she knows that voice. Ace is alive.


    She almost screamed when Brando was going to punch his husband again, but she was very grateful when Ace got out of his fist.


    When Ace got an advantage, he grabbed Brando¡¯s arm and twisted it around his back. She could clearly see Ace¡¯s face now because he was facing her. He has lot of bruises on his face.


    Ace got revenge on Brando. He is now on top of him. He punched Brando in the face making something crack. Brando¡¯s nose was bleeding when it hit Ace¡¯s fist. Brando quickly regained his bnce and threw a punch at Ace¡¯s face as well. Her heart seemed to stop beating as Brando retaliated against Ace. Her husband threw himself at Brando, making them both fall on the floor. Ace again dominated him, and repeatedly punched Brando in the face.


    Brando took his chance to swing at Ace making him fall to the side slightly at the impact. Brando used this opportunity to roll them over so he could sit Ace¡¯s body. But before he punched her husband again, Ace quickly caught his fist with his left hand. They were now fighting for control but none of them was winning.


    Then suddenly, Brando bumped his forehead against Ace¡¯s head, causing bleeding on his eyebrow. Their shirts were stained with blood as they both bled from their wounds. And seeing Ace¡¯s blood was like a knife to her heart.


    *****

 Chapter 33

    ACE


    He punched Brando in the stomach, and he groaned in pain. He also unleashed a strong blow on his jaw, making him fall to the ground. Brando grabbed one of his legs and that¡¯s why he also fell to the floor. He was still writhing from the pain in his back so Brando went ahead of him to stand up and he stomped on him. He picked up his dropped gun from the floor and pointed it at him.


    ¡°What now, Durant? Do you have anything to fight for? One wrong move and I will blow your head off. Now tell me, which agency do you work for? Answer!¡±


    ¡°Just kill me Nics, but you won¡¯t get an answer from me.¡±


    ¡°You really want to make it difficult before I kill you.¡± Brando kicked him again and again while still pointing his gun.


    GINA


    Oh no! I can¡¯t just stand here, I have to do something to help Ace, she said to herself.


    She was just behind Brando, so it¡¯s possible that he won¡¯t see her when shees out of her hiding ce.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Just in time, she saw a broken ss in the distance. She carefully crawled out from under the stairs and reached for the broken ss. When she got it, she slowly approached Brando. When Ace saw her behind Brando, she saw the fear on his face. She was about to stab Brando but he quickly got away and grabbed her, so she was captured again. He wrapped one arm around her neck while pressing the gun he was holding on her head.


    ¡°Gina!¡± Ace shouted.


    Brando smiled evilly at him. ¡°If you¡¯re lucky enough.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really an animal, Brando.¡± Ace said angrily.


    ¡°Destiny itself brought Gina closer to me, so whether or not you tell me where youe from Durant, I don¡¯t care anymore as long as the important thing is that I have Gina again. And now I can resume with you.¡± He pointed again the gun to Ace.


    ¡°Fine Brando, I¡¯ming with you. Just let Ace go. I¡¯ll also confess something to you about our marriage.¡±


    ¡°What about that?¡±


    She shouldn¡¯t be discouraged, she can¡¯t allow Brando to kill Ace and she can¡¯t allow Brando to keep her in his hands. She rather wants to die. So it¡¯s up to her, she¡¯ll just do it the way she thought.


    ¡°Uhm Brando, my love,¡± she was terrified to say that, but it was necessary in her n. ¡°The truth is, Ace and I only agreed to get married so that you don¡¯t bother me anymore.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± She saw the amazement on Brando¡¯s face.


    ¡°We¡¯re not really in love. It¡¯s all just an appearance.¡±


    When she nced at Ace she saw the sadness on his face.


    ¡°After all of this, Ace and I will also get annulled, it¡¯s not like we¡¯re going to be forever. Love can be taught, right? Maybe if we get together, I will learn to love you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re just saying that to trick me, Gina.¡± And suddenly she kissed Brando on his lips, rubbing the delicate part of his body until he moaned.


    ACE


    He didn¡¯t even like the scenario seen between Brando and Gina kissing. But he thinks that Gina only did that to win Brando¡¯s heart and divert his attention from him.


    When he got to his feet, he didn¡¯t waste time. He immediately approached the dropped gun and picked it up. But suddenly he heard Brando screaming in pain and he was holding his crotch. He saw Gina running towards him and he also saw Brando raise his gun, aiming at Gina. But before he could pull the trigger, he first hit him on his right arm, causing him to let go of the gun he was holding.


    ¡°Aaaaah¡­.¡± He winced in pain. That¡¯s good for him.


    When Gina got to his side. Suddenly¡­ They were showered with bullets.


    ¡°Get down.¡± He said immediately.


    They crawled to the wide pir and leaned against it. ¡°Damn! That one is still alive.¡± He cursed, referring to one of Brando¡¯s men who¡¯s left.


    ¡°Boss, you better run now. I¡¯ll take care of them before I blow up this ce.¡± He heard Brando¡¯s bodyguard say that. He and Gina looked at each other.


    ¡°Ace, how can we escape from here?¡±


    ¡°We can escape from here, just trust me.¡±


    ¡°Get out Durant, before you turn to ashes,¡± said Brando¡¯s silly bodyguard and burst outughing.


    He raised his gun and aimed it to shoot the fool, but¡­ he has no more bullets.


    ¡°AHA!¡± The bodyguard suddenly appeared that startled them.


    ¡°Gina, run!¡±


    And¡­


    They are now fighting for a gun. He mmed the man against the wall so he dropped the rifle he was carrying. He retaliated and kicked him hard in the stomach causing him to fall on the floor. He quickly grabbed his feet and pulled him so he also fell on the floor. He reached for his rifle and pointed it at him.


    ¡°Ace!¡± Gina shouted.


    ¡°I said get out of here. Run!¡±


    The man turned his back on Gina so he had time to fight the enemy with a gun.


    GINA


    She didn¡¯t really leave, she just hid behind the wall. She couldn¡¯t leave Ace. She peeked at Ace again, they were still fighting over the gun, she watched the scene with bated breath. What if Ace is not the one who can survive between the two?


    She couldn¡¯t just bear to watch. She looked for something that she could hit the enemy with. She saw a metal and quickly took it. But suddenly someone pulled her.


    ACE


    He continued to engage in a gun battle with the enemy. Even though thepetitor¡¯s body size looks like a bouncer in the club, but he is much faster than his hand.


    When the man attacked him again, he immediately got away. But what he didn¡¯t expect was to find himself a captive of him. The huge man holding him from behind. However, in a swift movement he freed himself from him and gave him a flying-kick. He hit the huge man in the chest so he fell to the ground. When he was about to pull out a gun, he quickly shot him first in the head.


    ¡°A gun in an amateur¡¯s hand is nothing to challenge.¡± He said to himself after he shot the enemy.


    Behind him the door burst open and a group of men wearing blue windbreakers stormed inside the room.


    ¡°Bro, we¡¯re here. It¡¯s betterte than never.¡± Noel said who had just arrived.


    ¡°But timing could have been a little better, Agent phoenix.¡± He replied to his colleague.


    ¡°Every time we locked on a signal, it died. But the good news is that your wife¡¯s ne is working. It¡¯s working so we tracked you here.¡±


    ¡°Agent Taurus, how are you? I¡¯m sorry if it took us a while to respond, we didn¡¯t really get a signal right away,¡± exined his boss. ¡°Wait, where¡¯s your wife?¡±


    ¡°Gina.¡± His eyes widened as he remembered his wife.


    ¡°Men! secure the entire building.¡± Ordered by Mr. Del Valle to his troops.


    ¡°Sir, Brando Nics took Agent Taurus wife upstairs as a hostage.¡± Agent Gemini informed them.


    ¡°I will deal with Nics, sir.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Ace. We¡¯re just behind you.¡±


    ¡ª¨C


    ¡°Leave my wife alone, Nics.¡± He said, after kicking the door of the room where Brando and Gina were.


    He saw that Gina was now wearing a vest while she was sitting on a chair, her mouth was covered and her hands were tied behind her back.


    ¡°Such a heroic act Durant, I think you impressed me too much today. But if Gina can¡¯t get out here alive, then I won¡¯t be happy either.¡± Brando saidughing as he pointed the gun at Gina¡¯s head.


    ¡°Surrender now Nics, because there is no right to lose here. Don¡¯t make my wife as your shield, fight fair.¡±


    ¡°Are you challenging me, Durant?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I challenge you, Nics.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Game.¡±


    Brando dropped the gun he was holding and raised both of his hands.


    He also threw the gun he was holding and raised his hands. The scenes that followed were punches and kicks between them. He was able to withstand all of Brando¡¯s attacks. While thetter was able to avoid his attacks. That¡¯s why they were both panting now.


    He was about to do his next assault when Brando pulled out another gun and shot him.


    GINA


    She heard gunshots all around here. No! her heart stopped beating. She had to close her eyes and she didn¡¯t want to open them again. No. She couldn¡¯t bear to see Ace get hit. She can¡¯t handle it.


    Momentary silence prevailed when her name suddenly echoed in her ears. When she felt someone remove the cover from her mouth. She slowly opened her eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯re alive!¡± She¡¯s about to cry and she touches both of Ace¡¯s cheeks.


    She turned to the men entering wearing bulletproof vests, they were heading to Brando. Then her gaze shifted to Ace. She saw his mouth move. He was talking but she couldn¡¯t hear his words. The breeze that greeted him was cold. Achingly cold.


    Totally numb. That¡¯s how she is right now.


    Ace continued to remove her ties.


    ¡°We¡¯re safe now.¡± He mouthed.


    ¡°No. We¡¯re not, because I¡¯m wearing a bomb inside my vest.¡±


    ACE


    He immediately checked the bomb that Gina said. Confirmed indeed. Only one minute and thirty seconds left. ¡°Sir, there¡¯s a bomb in Gina¡¯s vest, so you get out of here while there¡¯s still time.¡±


    Instead of being rmed, they remained silent.


    ¡°We will not leave you here, we are a team so no one will be left behind,¡± Noel said.


    ¡°Be careful Ace, we have trust in you.¡± His boss said and gave him an encouraging smile.


    He just nodded in response, and started disarming the bomb while there were only sixty seconds left.


    *****

 Chapter 34

    GINA


    ¡°The most painful thing is saying goodbye to someone you don¡¯t want to let go. But It¡¯s more painful to ask someone to stay if you know they really want to go.¡± This was her favorite saying that always ys her mind as she walked back and forth in a small interrogation room at the NBI office, because the Bureau coborated with the CIA in arresting Brando. Walking back and forth was all she did during the four hour wait. Because earlier Ace offered her to take her home but she did not agree. She was afraid that Ace might note home now that she knew his real job. She also has a lot of questions from Ace that he needs to answer, it doesn¡¯t matter if she waits for a long time. At least this way, he had to face her.


    She didn¡¯t even touch the food that was prepared for her, she was losing her appetite because of what was happening to her. Her intake was only soft drinks since she arrived at the office. She still hasn¡¯t gotten over what happened, especially the near explosion of the bomb, but it¡¯s a good thing her husband is a bomb expert because if not, she would probably be torn to pieces.


    She was tired from walking so she sat down on the chair there. She was really bored. Until the door opened. She sat up straight and watched Ace came quietly into the room and shut the door. Then he pulled a chair on the opposite side of the table.


    ¡°How are your injured hands?¡±


    She looked at the bandage on her hands that were injured because of Brando¡¯s tight ties to her. ¡°It¡¯s okay. How are your bruises?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ve had an x-ray.¡±


    He¡¯s like a different Ace she is facing now. He looks intimidating. She also felt the awkwardness between the two of them. Maybe because until now she is still ashamed of what she did by recording him while he was talking in his sleep. Even though Ace hasn¡¯t talked to her about it yet.


    ¡°Is Brando Nics done spilling his guts?¡± She changed the topic, trying to stay as cool as she is.


    ¡°As of now, he¡¯s not yet cooperating. But we have an ace against him. He¡¯s afraid of his father-inw, especially since Roman finds out that he killed his daughter.¡±


    ¡°Brando Nics killed his own wife?¡± She asked in shock.


    ¡°Yes. And until now his father-inw did not know about it. His wife was not the only one he killed. There were three other women he raped and murdered. But because he had strong connections, most of the witnesses kept silent. Sometimes, people¡¯s silence is often bought with threats. There are some people who want to witness against him, but they are found dead in the next few days. Did you know that Brando Nics is part of an international terrorism and a big time drug and arms dealer as well?¡±


    ¡°OMG! so this is a big case?¡±


    ¡°It didn¡¯t start that way. It all started when Maryam¡¯s niece, who is also Brando¡¯s wife, had disappeared. No one knew where she was, she had been missing for three weeks. Monthster, she called Maryam, asking for help because Brando took her to an ind and locked her there. The next day, they were happy to receive the news that N had been found, but the only sad thing was that she was found dead.¡±


    She leaned forward. ¡°Why didn¡¯t Maryam report to the police immediately?¡±


    ¡°Because she was afraid to report to them, she might get caught up with Brando¡¯s connections. She didn¡¯t know who she could trust. So she just kept what she knew to herself. Until¨C¡±


    ¡°She called your office?¡± She guessed.


    ¡°No. She contacted the only person she could trust.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Judge Soler.¡±


    ¡°How did she and the Judge meet?¡±


    ¡°They met before, when he was still a public defender. So the Judge himself called us. By that, we invited Maryam to the headquarters. Maryam¡¯s testimony against Brando gave us the way to investigate again this case. We have been monitoring him for a long time, because Brando is involved in the sale of illegal firearms, explosive bombs and drugs in different countries. And not only that, he is also a suspect in the case of rape and murder. The evidence against him for killing his wife would have been strong if the only star witness ¨C Maryam ¨C hadn¡¯t been kidnapped.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°That¡¯s why you and Maryam know each other. How did Maryam get away from her kidnappers?¡±


    ¡°She managed to escape because she¡¯s getting helped by one of Brando¡¯s men. Since then, she didn¡¯t want to testify and secretly went to another country. That¡¯s why we couldn¡¯t find her.¡±


    Her gaze drifted over him. She wished she could soothe the weariness from his face. She wished she would hold him and tell him that everything was going to be all right.


    ¡°How are you involved in Brando¡¯s business?¡± She asked him instead.


    ¡°It¡¯s not true that I came here to the Philippines because of my father. I already found him before. The main reason why I¡¯m here now is because of my mission. We found out that the Philippines was a new market for Nics. He got careless, thinking himself to be unknown here, so he met openly with people known to facilitate moneyundering. Some of them are members of club fama.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°We already had an asset at club fama, he was also a businessman and a member there. That¡¯s why I joined the restaurant as a waiter to monitor him. Later on, we convinced one of our contacts to rmend me to Brando as a facilitator. But Brando Nics wouldn¡¯t be a member there if it wasn¡¯t for you.¡±


    ¡°Huh? And why because of me?¡± She asked in surprise.


    ¡°Because Brando Nics likes you so much.¡±


    ¡°Gosh. I¡¯m so ttered.¡±


    A passing smile crossed his lips and it tormented her. ¡°What if I did agree to his marriage proposal? What would happen to me? Wouldn¡¯t he get tired of me, too?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. That¡¯s probably it. You¡¯re so attractive that Brando is obsessed with you.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything to attract him.¡±


    ¡°Because you¡¯re so beautiful, that¡¯s why Brando is fascinated by you. It¡¯s not just Brando who likes you, other members of the club fama are also attracted to you. That¡¯s why Brando has the courage to get you by all means because he¡¯s afraid of being overtaken by others.¡±


    ¡°Oh stop it, Ace. I can¡¯t take all this ttery at once.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re smart and¨C¡± he paused, then he continued. ¡°Maybe he sees something different in you, Gina. I was going to tell you something, too. But I guess, this is not the right time to tell you.¡±


    ¡°About what, Ace? Tell me?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any reason to pretend anymore, Gina. You know how dangerous my job is.¡±


    ¡°How long have you been a CIA agent?¡±


    ¡°Five years. After getting a business degree at Harvard. I studied again in LA taking up criminology. After I graduated, I worked in a crimeb analyzing data. And then, someone offered me toe in as an agent. I didn¡¯t hesitate to agree because I was really looking for a thrill in life. Good thing that I was epted to the agency the first time I applied, then I undergo rigid training.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me you were an agent?¡±


    ¡°I was undercover.¡±


    ¡°Surely other agents are married and go undercover. Their wives must know.¡±


    ¡°I believed that the less you knew, the safer you were.¡±


    She shook her head.¡±You just didn¡¯t trust me.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t share my work with you. It could have jeopardized the entire operation. But I also realized that you can¡¯t hide all the secrets.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m your wife Ace, you shouldn¡¯t have kept it a secret from me.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 35

    ACE


    He wanted to speak, but he couldn¡¯t open his mouth. He was hesitant to tell Gina the truth. But he had to, once in for all.


    ¡°No. I¡¯m not your husband, Gina.¡±


    He saw the sudden paleness on Gina¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m not your wife? H-how did that happen? Didn¡¯t we get married to the judge?¡± She asked one after another.


    ¡°Because I¡¯m not Ace Durant.¡±


    ¡°Then what? who are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Ace Soler.¡±


    ¡°Soler?¡± She repeated. ¡°How are you rted to Judge Soler?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s what I¡¯m telling you, Gina. He¡¯s my father.¡±


    The expression of her face revealed everything¨Cshock, hurt and anger. Simr to how he felt when he¡¯d realized that she recorded him without his knowledge.


    ¡°Well, that simplifies things, doesn¡¯t it? no annulment, no legal separation and whatever.¡± She said and got up from her seat. She took her bag from the table and noticed that her hands were shaking.


    ¡°I only did that to protect you, Gina.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She said in a sarcastic tone.


    ¡°I hope you understand that it is also for your sake, Gina. If nothing else, give me credit for that.¡±


    GINA


    She is angry, she is really angry with what she knows. She tapped the front table with both hands. ¡°What do you think Ace, that I married you because I needed your protection?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°I really epted your marriage proposal because I wanted to give us a chance to get to know each other. If you were honest with yourself, I would think that you offered me marriage not because you just wanted to protect me, but because you want me too.¡±


    ¡°I only did that to get you away from Nics, Gina.¡±


    ¡°Since the beginning, I don¡¯t really believe that marrying me is the only solution for you to protect me from Brando. That¡¯s the only solution you thought of because you also like me. I believe that there is something really connecting for both of us.¡±


    He frowned. ¡°I just want to protect you, nothing else. And look how you paid me back. You secretly record me like some sort of criminal.¡±


    She had no answer to that. So she chose to remain silent. ¡°I want to go home.¡± It was all she said and turned away from him. But he blocked her at the door.


    ¡°We have an issue remaining here, Gina.¡±


    ¡°Just text me.¡±


    ¡°We made love.¡±


    ¡°We had sex,¡± she said emphatically. ¡°I have absolved you for that, Ace.¡±


    ¡°But we don¡¯t use protection.¡±


    ¡°Well, don¡¯t sweat it, honey pie. Mama and Janice won¡¯t chase you with a shotgun.¡±


    ¡°If I get you pregnant, I deserve to know.¡± She saw him clench his fist. ¡°A child needs a father. I did not grow up with mine. So I know what it is like.¡±


    She closed her eyes for a moment. If only she could erase her love for Ace just like that. But instead, her love is what makes her stronger every day to live. As if this is her life support. And only fate knows how long she will love him.


    ¡°I¡¯m going back to our headquarters in Virginia. Maybe after six months I¡¯ll be able to keep in touch with you.¡± He said, breaking his silence.


    I know. It¡¯s expected. But she didn¡¯t just voice it. She is afraid to speak because she might get hurt even more. Standing so close that she could hear him breathe. So close that she couldn¡¯t take a deep breath herself. He didn¡¯t want to show Ace her weakness, especially now.


    Ace held her hands. ¡°Goodbye, Gina.¡±


    She just swallowed. Could this be thest moment she could hold Ace¡¯s hands? Oh God! how could she survive the rest of her life without it? She wanted to hate him for his secrets, for his willpower to keep them. But she couldn¡¯t hate him¨Cshe couldn¡¯t.


    So, is this what dying feels like? But she still doesn¡¯t see the light and the souls that follow her. The only thing she felt at that time was trembling and loneliness. ¡°Goodbye, Ace.¡± she said, lifting her chin.


    He let go of her hands, but he still didn¡¯t let go of her eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll take you home.¡± He said after a minute.


    ¡°I can go home alone.¡±


    ¡°Just let me take you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s up to you.¡± She answered with a shrug.


    During their entire trip home, none of them really spoke. The only time she spoke is when she got out of his new car. ¡°You can pick up all your stuff at home anytime.¡± she said in a monotone.¡±Just make sure I¡¯m not here at home when you pick it up. I¡¯ll just give the key to mom or Janice afterwards.¡±


    ¡°Gina¨C¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, Ace. This is the most painful thing I¡¯ve been through. I¡¯m sorry I recorded you. Despite what you think, I did trust you. I just wanted to get to know you better. I could have handled anything Ace, anything because¨C¡± and she just covered her mouth so she wouldn¡¯t end up sobbing. ¡°Your responsibility to me is over honey pie. We don¡¯t have to worry about each other now that Brando is in jail. We don¡¯t hold anything because our marriage is invalid. Goodbye, Zorro.¡± She ran away towards the door of her house. She doesn¡¯t want Ace to see her cry.


    When she entered the house. She let the angere first, then followed by regret, rejection and loss. How can she forget Ace if she sees his memories in her own house?


    She ran towards Ace¡¯s room. She climbed on the bed and buried her head on the pillow and cried there. Until now, she can still smell his perfume, maybe it has stuck to his pillow. Just the smell of it will remind her that Ace is still here.


    ¡°I wish I never met you.¡±


    But every time she remembered what Ace said while he was sleeping, the pain she felt only increased. But life must go on, she has to move on.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    *****

 Chapter 36

    GINA


    It¡¯s been three months since Ace left the Philippines. But she still can¡¯t move on. But she is happy with the way she lives now. Her dream of being able to design hase true through her friend Maryam, so she is very grateful to her for trusting in her abilities.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Three months had passed and no word from Ace. None. He hadn¡¯t called or texted, or emailed, or anything. It really broke her heart. He really affirmed that he will not keep in touch with her for six months.


    She still cried most of the nights for the horrible experience she¡¯d gone through, especially when the person she loved so much left. For the man she¡¯d never be able to call ¡°Mine¡±. But she could only hope that Ace was fine too.


    Her deep thoughts were only stirred when her cellphone rang.


    Vaughn Sandler is calling¡­


    Vaughn is her one month boyfriend. A Filipino-British Engineer in Russia.


    Two months ago he and Vaughn met when her car stopped on the road. Vaughn passed by so he helped her when her car broke down. As the luxury car stopped, she thought that the person riding it was handsome as the car, but she fell even more in love when he got off. He was a tall man in histe twenties, his face is gentle and his aura is very cheerful. He is handsome, not as handsome as Ace, but she can say that the man is devastatingly attractive. Even though his polo shirt was white, he didn¡¯t bother to check the engine of her car. She suddenly thought at that time of Ace¡¯s story about the princess and the frog. So she realized that Vaughn was what the story says, a chivalrous stranger who helped the princess. But of course she doesn¡¯t think too much about that.


    That day ended when they actually exchanged Vaughn¡¯s cellphone number. As days passed by, Vaughn always called her and asked her for a date. She refused his invitation several times, but the man still did not stop so in the end she agreed.


    Vaughn is a happy person especially that he always smiles, unlike Ace. He is not just handsome, but he is muscr as well, he was really the Prince Charming type. So in the past few days it seems that she likes the man too.


    FLASHBACK


    ¡°Gina, I couldn¡¯t promise you anything but I promise to love you forever. I¡¯m not the man in your heart right now, but I¡¯m willing to wait when you open your heart for me.¡±


    ¡°I also realized, Vaughn, that since we¡¯ve known each other for more than a month, I¡¯ve really seen your determination. But Vaughn, it¡¯s unfair because if I answer you, I still won¡¯t forget him.¡± Because she told Vaughn everything about her and Ace. Vaughn also told her about his past love life.


    ¡°I¡¯ll help you forget about him as much as I can, Gina. Just say Yes.¡±


    ¡°Whoa! That¡¯s a song, say yes! Say yes! coz I need you know¡­¡± She said jokingly.


    ¡°You already said ¡®Yes¡¯.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just singing.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re now my girlfriend, you already answered me.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t I object?¡±


    ¡°Like I said, you already said yes, Gina.¡±


    END OF FLASHBACK


    [Gina: Hi there! how are you? are you home?]


    [Vaughn: Yes, but I can¡¯t visit your house today because I¡¯m still attending a meeting. I missed you Gina, that¡¯s why I texted you. By the way, I had something delivered to your home, from Russia with love.]


    [Gina: You don¡¯t have to send me any gifts as long as you love me, that¡¯s all that matters.]


    [Vaughn: It¡¯s nothing, Gina, as long as it¡¯s for you.]


    In fairness, Vaughn is really sweet to her, he and Ace are very different.


    [Gina: My Vaughn is very sweet. I¡¯ve be spoiled now.]


    [Vaughn: Uhm¡­ Gina, can youe with me tomorrow?]


    [Gina: Where are we going?]


    [Vaughn: It¡¯s a secret for now.]


    [Gina: You know I don¡¯t like secrets.]


    [Vaughn: Okay, tomorrow I will tell you. Good night, I love you.]


    After she talked to Vaughn on the cell phone, suddenly someone knocked on the door.


    When she opened it, she saw a delivery guy carrying a big teddy bear. ¡°Delivery for Ms. Suarez from Mr. Sandler.¡±


    After she signed the delivery slip, the delivery guy left immediately. But she remained stunned as she stared at the teddy bear she was holding.


    ¡ª¨C


    The next day she woke up early to prepare for her meeting with Vaughn. She didn¡¯t know why she was nervous. That¡¯s just how she feels at that time. After she got dressed, Vaughn arrived at her house.


    The duration of their trip to the unknown destination was about twenty minutes, and when they arrived at the said ce, she saw that it was one of the expensive restaurants that she found out to be owned by Vaughn¡¯s family. She does not know what Vaughn¡¯s n is and why she was brought there. It¡¯s just that she suddenly got nervous. But all of a sudden, her nervousness was relieved when one child came up to her and gave her three blue roses that were her favorite.


    Vaughn opened the door at the end of the restaurant and she saw the very wide swimming pool. She was carried on her own feet towards the pool. When she saw something written on the floating balloons, she didn¡¯t immediately understand it at first, but eventually she also got the meaning of what was written on the balloons. What is written there is what she has been dreaming about her whole life. To find the man she loves who can tell her that and that opportunity hase.


    When she turned around, the important people in her life came. Janice with Payton and their son. And her mom and Ruby who is her colleague at the restaurant. Vaughn¡¯s sister and his best friend also came. She thought what might be Vaughn¡¯s trick and he even brought witnesses?


    s! Maybe a priest wille next. I don¡¯t know, she said to herself.


    Suddenly she felt dizzy and felt like she was going to vomit. She has been feeling it for more than two months. But she still carries it. Maybe she is just tensed by the speed of events.


    She saw Vaughn kneeling in front of her, while the people around them cheered.


    ¡°Georgina Suarez, will you be willing to be Mrs. Sandler? Whether you like it or yes?¡±


    Oh, there might be missing from his question. Because even in his marriage proposal, there is ¡®no¡¯ or ¡®not¡¯, only yes.


    ¡°Okay, I will only give you 60 seconds to answer that, Ms. Suarez.¡± Vaughn gave her an ultimatum.


    ¡ª¨C


    Location: Miami, Florida


    ACE


    He kissed her reluctantly as she touched his chest. His hands traveled from her chest to her neck. The woman immediately wrapped her arms around his neck. He picked her up and carried her to the bed.


    They are now lying on the bed while the woman is touching his chest. ¡°Babe, you don¡¯t seem like yourself right now, do you?¡±


    She was saying something but he didn¡¯t seem to hear it because his mind was floating somewhere else. The woman he is with now is the famous Filipino-Korean supermodel Ariana Lin, whom he dated before. ¡°What did you say again?¡± but Ariana just kissed him instead. He responded by kissing her and tearing his lips from hers, traveling down to her neck just below her ears. He bit her earlobe and nibbled it gently causing her to moan out loud. He continued on kissing her neck down to her cleavage.


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± she moaned when his left hand was caressing her breast, while his other hand explored her body, and he¡¯s getting something out of his mind.


    He could hear Ariana moaning repeatedly as she called his name. Since he returned to the U. S., Ariana has been his constant bed partner. No strings attached, the woman is also willing to have such a set-up. Because he and Ariana met again at a fashion show in Miami and it happened that his assignment was there. Since then, he and Ariana have been seeing each other so that he could also divert his attention to the female model. That was his way to finally forgot about Gina.


    He started his way down to her navel when suddenly the face of the woman he tried to forget entered. He can still remember how beautiful Gina is, how innocent she is, and how temptingly open. He can still recall the sweet taste of her lips when they kiss passionately and how she smiles towards him seductively. Although, he can still remember the hurt in her eyes when he bid goodbye to her.


    Until he suddenly let go of Ariana, who was looking up to him puzzled and frustrated. It¡¯s like he came back to reality, and he realized that the girl he kissed was not Gina but Ariana. He just shook his head, and he slowly moved away from the woman and got off the bed.


    ¡°What is happening to you, Ace?¡± She said annoyed, he just sighed.


    His cell phone rang suddenly. That was good because he can turn his attention to something else.


    His Dad calling¡­


    He tapped his phone to answer the button.


    [¡°Hey Dad! Congrattions.]


    [¡°Really? well congrats again, Dad, I¡¯m happy for both of you.¡±]


    [¡°I¡¯m not sure if I can get home. I¡¯ll just inform you.¡±]


    [¡°All right. Bye, Dad.]


    ¡°Why did your Dad call you?¡± Ariana immediately asked after getting off his cell phone.


    ¡°I have to go, Ariana.¡± He kissed her check and without looking back he left her hotel room. He can still hear Ariana calling him, but he just goes straight as if he didn¡¯t hear anything.


    *****

 Chapter 37

    Previously¡­


    She saw Vaughn kneeling in front of her, while the people around them cheered.


    ¡°Georgina Suarez, will you be willing to be Mrs. Sandler? whether you like it or yes?¡±


    Oh, there might be missing from his question. Because even in his wedding proposal, there is ¡®no¡¯ or ¡®not¡¯, only yes.


    ¡°I will only give you 60 seconds to answer that, Ms. Suarez.¡± Vaughn gave her an ultimatum.


    ¡ª¨C


    GINA


    ¡°Time is up. Now, I¡¯m going to ask you again, Gina. Can I really get your sweet ¡®Yes¡¯?¡±


    She didn¡¯t really answer right away, and suddenly tears came to her eyes. ¡°Vaughn, I¡­ I¡¯m sorry.. I¡¯m so sorry..¡± she said as she started to cry.


    Vaughn was now the one who did not speak and he avoided looking at her. As if he was gathering courage before he stared at her again. ¡°I understand you Gina, I didn¡¯t really expect you to ept my proposal. I was just in a hurry, and I knew it from the start. So I prepared myself that this would happen. I just want to let them know that I love you so much Gina, even for the little time we spent together.¡±


    She just started crying. It¡¯s unfair for Vaughn. She thought that this opportunity was not really meant for her. It¡¯s hard to let go of Vaughn because of his kindness and he¡¯s not sure if Ace wille back. But she really needs to let him go because for her that is the right thing.


    She took Vaughn¡¯s hands and held them. ¡°Vaughn, I hope you find the person who truly deserves your love. Thank you very much, Vaughn. Goodbye.¡± She let go of his grip and ran away.


    She noticed that Vaughn was chasing her, but he didn¡¯t catch her up because she was already in a taxi.


    ¡ª¨C


    JANICE


    ¡°Alright sis,  just express what you feel.¡± She said to her sister while rubbing her back. Her sister is now drunk because she drinks too much. They are now at a resto bar with Payton to sympathize with their sister.


    ¡°Janice, I¡¯m letting Vaughn go¡­¡± she continued to cry. Only just now she saw her sister like that.


    ¡°Sis, if only you had epted Vaughn¡¯s proposal. You have nothing to ask for, he¡¯s kind, handsome, stable, and besides, he loves you so much.¡±


    ¡°But you can¡¯t force your sister if Ace is still in her heart, baby.¡± Payton said. ¡°Maybe Ace is just too busy.¡±


    ¡°Shut up, Payton, you¡¯re not helping. Don¡¯t get involved.¡±


    Suddenly her sister stood up and they just followed her in which direction she was going. She saw her go to the karaoke and she took the vacated microphone and selected a song.


    ¡°OMG sis! You will sing?¡± She asked in disbelief.


    ¡°Sure! Why not? Don¡¯t you have trust in your sister, Janice?¡± Gina said.


    ¡°Woooh! Go sis! Go!¡± Payton cheered on Gina.


    Now ying ¡°You¡¯re Still My Man¡±


    On the day that you left me


    You said, you had no regrets


    There¡¯s a bond between us


    That hasn¡¯t been broken yet


    And the feelings between us


    Will never disappear


    How can you be far away?


    When your spirit is here


    You¡¯re still my man, nothing can change it


    We still belong together


    You¡¯re still my man, nothing can change it


    Our love willst forever


    And the seasons of our love


    Will always change I know


    Maybe that¡¯s the reason


    You felt you had to go


    But soon you¡¯ll be missing me


    Darling, I know you well


    There¡¯s a magic we share together


    And no one can break that spell


    You¡¯re still my man, nothing can change it


    We still belong together


    You¡¯re still my man, nothing can change it


    Our love willst forever


    I¡¯ll wait for you


    The thought that keeps me going each day


    I believe you still love me


    I love you more than words can say


    You¡¯re still my man, nothing¡¯s gonna change it


    Don¡¯t you know, you ought to know, we belong together


    You¡¯re still my man and nothing can change it


    Oh, baby, oh, darling, you¡¯re in my heart forever


    ¡®Cause you¡¯re my man


    Without you


    There¡¯d be no love at all


    You¡¯re still my man, nothing can change it


    Don¡¯t you know, you ought to know, we belong together


    Oh you¡¯re still my man, nothing can change it


    Oh, baby, oh, darling, you¡¯re in my heart forever


    You¡¯re still my man, nothing can change it


    I¡¯m yours, you know you¡¯re mine, you¡¯re in my heart forever


    You¡¯re still my man, nothing can change it


    Don¡¯t you know, you ought to know, we belong together


    ¡­


    She noticed that almost everyone in the restaurant was looking at her sister. She really feels the moment of singing and she even got the attention of the people there.


    After she sang, the crowd cheered and some even said ¡°one more¡±. But what they didn¡¯t expect was that her sister suddenly passed out because of her drunkenness.


    ¡ª-


    One weekter¡­


    Location: Philippines @ 10:30 p. m.


    ACE


    ¡°Hi Dad! The light is still on, so I decided to go straight here.¡± He greeted as his Dad opened the door for him. ¡°I hope it¡¯s not toote to stop by.¡±


    ¡°Not at all, son. When Maryam hears you, I¡¯m sure she wille out of the room.¡±


    He and his Dad were walking together towards the living room when he suddenly remembered something. ¡°Sorry Dad, I interrupted your honeym¨C¡±


    ¡°You are. But that¡¯s all right, son. Our flight will be tomorrow for the real honeymoon.¡± He said, making the father and sonugh.


    ¡°Well, hallelujah Dad! I can¡¯t think of better news toe home to. It took you long enough to decide to get married again. Only now that you¡¯re already a golden boy.¡±


    His Dad scratched his head, he just smiled at him. When his Dad smiles like that, he¡¯s like ten years younger than his age. ¡°We really waited for you, son, because I wanted you to be my best man. But I really wanted to marry Maryam right away. Imagine after waiting so many years for her, and finally she said ¡®yes¡¯ to me. So if we wait for you toe back to the Philippines, she might change her mind.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t believe what your father said, Ace.¡± Maryam said who was now approaching them. ¡°The truth is, I was the one who was worried that Johnny might change his mind¡­ Wee home Ace.¡±


    ¡°Wee to the family too, Mrs. Soler.¡± He said after hugging Maryam.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe I didn¡¯t figure out your connection to Johnny. Maybe because if you look at him first, you and your father don¡¯t look alike.¡± Maryammented. ¡°But the looks alone can¡¯t deny that you are really father and son.¡±


    ¡°Well, I feelplimented if I look alike with Dad, so that means I¡¯m handsome because Dad is handsome¡­ right, Dad?¡±


    His Dad just smiled at him as usual, his smile is the secret that makes him look younger. ¡°How is Miami, son?¡±


    ¡°As usual, it¡¯s still hot Dad, and I couldn¡¯t wait to get back to Fog City because I already miss the snow.¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t congratted you on your promotion, son. I¡¯m so proud of you. You did a good job.¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Thank you, Dad. Thank you for your support.¡±


    ¡°Ace, I just want to ask. Are you and Gina seeing each other?¡± Maryam asked him.


    ¡°I just got home.¡± He said and lifted his bag.


    ¡°And you came here first?¡±


    ¡°My love, please, maybe he still has a jetg¨C¡± his Dad interjected.


    ¡°Stay out of this, Johnny. You told me he was the biggest fool alive.¡±


    His Dad just offered him a sheepish grin in apology as Maryam turned back to him.


    ¡°Did you know that I hired Gina as my official designer?¡± Maryam informed him. ¡°I have changed the name of the shop. From Maryam¡¯s intimate lingerie to Maryam and Gina¡¯s apparel. I haven¡¯t told her the name yet. But I hope she¡¯ll be pleased.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great.¡± He said. ¡°Maybe what Gina needs is to find a sensible husband.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Gina really needs a loving husband like you, son.¡± His father replied. ¡°Go, see her, son. Ask her if that¡¯s what she wants.¡±


    ¡°He told me before, Dad. That she wants a stable home for her children. You know my job, Dad, If I want to advance in my field, I will probably be transferred several times.¡±


    It was the main reason why he had never let himself imagine a permanent life with her. He couldn¡¯t give her what she wanted, and what she deserved.


    Maryam looked at him intently as she muttered. ¡°You¡¯re an idiot.¡±


    He was speechless when Maryam called him that. But it¡¯s only right to call him that. The truth is, he¡¯d done nothing but think about Gina for the past months, worried if she was all right, and wondered if she was pregnant.


    He hopes that she is pregnant. He no longer needs to make a decision. He will marry her. Period.


    His presence returned when Maryam spoke again. ¡°Almost twenty-five years ago,¡± Maryam said and she pulled him to sit on their sofa. ¡°Your father defended me in a rape case. It was the lowest point of my life because I am indeed one of the rape victims. Back then, there weren¡¯t many party-list movements for those. I was a mess. But I swear even if that happened to me, I never attempted to sell my body. Until I met someone who was also a rape victim, and she was the one who encouraged me to fight so that the perpetrator could be charged. Johnny saw my past bruises and my scars, even the invisible ones. He was the kindest, gentlest man I¡¯d ever known. I didn¡¯t believe he could be real. I figure it out that¡¯s really just a tactic of men, kill them with kindness or something. However, Johnny and I won the case, then he helped me find a respectable job. And when my life settled down, he came calling.¡± She paused for a moment and then continued. ¡°I put him off. I let him be my friend and asionally my lover for all these years. But I wouldn¡¯t let him in into my heart. Until you and Gina got married. Day in and day out I saw her happiness, and it hit me, on how foolish I¡¯d been to deny myself the same joy. It¡¯s my fault, too. If only I had given your father hope earlier. But I can see it in him, as if he still hasn¡¯t moved on from his break-up with your Mommy.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this, my love.¡± His father said, and kissed Maryam¡¯s forehead.


    ¡°If I can atone in some way through your son, I¡¯m going to.¡± She said turning to his Dad. ¡°Gina is trying so hard to put on a happy face for everyone, but all of us who love her see the truth. That she¡¯s just pretending to be happy even though the truth is, she¡¯s not really happy because she misses Ace.¡±


    ¡°She misses me?¡±


    ¡°To prove it, go see her.¡± Maryam suggested to him. ¡°Talk to her about that and you will be clear. Either make her yourspletely and forever¡ªor set her free. You both deserve that.¡± She patted him on his shoulder.


    ¡°A week of soul-searching had already led me to that conclusion. But thank you for being honest, Mom.¡±


    Maryam raised her eyebrows. ¡°Try to call me mom again, then I¡¯m going to hit you.¡± And the three of them justughed.


    *****

 Chapter 38

    ACE


    The living room light is on. He knew that Gina had juste home from the restaurant. He can be sure that when he knocks on her door at this hour of the night, she will be scared. He also left his cell phone in hispartment and he¡¯s toozy to go back to it.


    He is now in front of Gina¡¯s house. He took a deep breath and stretched his body before he managed to knock on the door.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± She asked in a bold voice.


    ¡°Ace.¡± He called from outside.


    ¡°What do you need?¡±


    Huh? ¡°I want to see you, Gina. Please open the door.¡±


    ¡°I thought you would show me after six months.¡±


    What the hell? ¡°What if I came back early? Gina, don¡¯t make me stand out here and yell. What might your neighbors will say in thiste evening. Maybe the police will pick me up for yelling here.¡±


    ¡°Then go away. A deal is a deal. We have already agreed that we will not be seeing each other.¡±


    He just smiled at her irritated voice. ¡°Okay, if you don¡¯t want to open it, anyway I have a key and I also know the code.¡±


    ¡°I have changed the code.¡±


    ¡°I know it¡¯s not. Because you even told me before that I can get my things whenever I want. So meaning, you haven¡¯t changed it as long as my things are still inside.¡±


    Gina was suddenly quiet inside. ¡°So you¡¯re just here to get your things?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, and if that doesn¡¯t bother you too much?¡±


    Then after a minute he heard the click of the lock. ¡°Come in.¡± Gina said after opening it.


    He stepped in cautiously, closing the door behind him. But Gina suddenly disappeared from his sight.


    ¡°I¡¯ve put your equipment in a big box. Just take it from there.¡± Gina calleding from her room.


    He saw a big box in the living room that she was talking about.


    ¡°Can you face me, Georgina?¡± He called back.


    After a few minutes, Gina stepped through her bedroom door and suddenly his chest pounded, halting his ability to speak. He was in love with her. And now he is sure of his feelings for Gina. Somewhere along the way, he¡¯d fallen deeply, irrevocably in love with her.


    ¡°Hi!¡± He finally said.


    She looked at him with huge, serious eyes. While Gina was just standing there. ¡°How are you?¡± she asked politely.


    ¡°Not so good.¡±


    GINA


    She was confused by Ace¡¯s answer so she frowned. What else is this guy doing here? What is the new suffering that he will cause her?


    ¡°By the way, your favorite leather jacket is there in your closet. Just take it. And take this, too.¡± She handed Ace the ne he gave her on her birthday. She also grabbed his grandmother¡¯s ring and twisted it up on her finger.


    Please God, I hope I can get through this without crying.


    ¡°Don¡¯t take it off,¡± he took her left hand to stop her from taking off the ring.


    Her heart almost jumped when she saw that Ace was still wearing their wedding ring. She was just stunned by what she saw. Why is he still wearing their wedding ring? Well, when she found out that their marriage was invalid, she took it off right away. Except for the engagement ring that was given to her by Ace that she is still wearing.


    Ace approached her, then framed her face with his hands. He stared at her, and she also stared at his green eyes that seemed to be hypnotizing. ¡°I missed you, Gina.¡±


    She seemed to catch her breath when she heard Ace say that.


    ¡°I missed you, too.¡± She whispered softly as her heart beat grew stronger. ¡°Oh Ace, I missed you so much. So very, very much.¡±


    He suddenly grabbed her nape and kissed her hard, a light drag of flesh to flesh until her arms rose and wrapped around Ace¡¯s neck. Suddenly he picked her up.


    ¡°You have lost weight. You are so light, it looks like you didn¡¯t take care of yourself while I was gone.¡± his voice was husky and oh so dear. She really misses this man so much.


    ¡°That¡¯s not important anymore,¡± she said, pressing her lips to his neck, twining her arms around him as heid her on the bed, pulling him down with her, making him her nket and herforter.


    She knew she should wait for the words from him. The right words. Or maybe she should ask him first. What exactly is her ce in his heart? ¡°Ace¨C¡±


    ¡°Shhh. Can we talkter. For now I just want to hold you, feel you, and hear your sighs of pleasure. Because I will never miss the moments when I can hold you, like this.¡±


    He kissed her once more. She was still clinging to his neck and deepening the kiss. His tongue slid across her lips, dipped inside as she opened to him. A primal sound vibrated from his chest to hers. She sucked in a breath and wrapped her legs around him as he moved against her, pressing kisses to her forehead, her eyelids, her nose, her cheeks, and finally to her mouth again.


    ACE


    Needing to be free from restriction, he stripped his clothes off between their hungry kisses, then forced himself to slow down, to make a memory of the moment. He stretched out beside her, leaning across her to turn on thempshade beside her bed.


    ¡°You are so beautiful,¡± he admired the beauty in front of him


    .


    ¡°Ace,¡± she whispered.


    He pushed her shirt over her head and shoved it across the bed. Brushing a satin bra strap aside, he kissed the smooth flesh of her shoulder and tugged the strap lower and lower, until he peeled thece away from her left breast. He slightly moved away to observe Gina.


    ¡°Oh please,¡± she moaned.


    He ran his thumb over the hard nipple, shifting his gaze to her face as she arched her body, she moaned and closed her eyes. She arched higher, holding her breath when he reached for her breast and sucked her left breast while he started stroking the other.


    ¡°I want you,¡± she pleaded.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    He pulled the tiny peak into his mouth, flicking the hook of her bra open to bare her other breast, revealing in the way she pushed herself towards him, celebrating the sounds she made. Her words were little more than growls. ¡°I need you, Ace.¡±


    An inch at a time, he unwrapped her, until all that was left was hercy panties. He angled down to slide the piece of temptation off her, then he balled the fabric and brushed her body with long and steady strokes. She gasped as thece scraped her nipples.


    ¡°I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shhh¡­ Let me take care of you, sweety.¡±


    GINA


    Ace¡¯s lips followed every path of his hands. He was tasting her. Every inch of her. There was nothing she could say, nothing she could do but to savor it. And when he touched her most sensitive spot, she moaned. And then she screamed when the sensation was too hot. She cried out his name as she came as close to her peak. Ace nudged her legs, parting them open. Captured her mouth for a sweet, plundering kiss as he entered her. Then he was inside her, stretching her, filling her, taking her up again fast and hard until she mmed into the climax that waited at the top. She felt her release and she also felt Ace release inside of her. Both of them copsed with each other¡¯s arms after that. They chase the same breath. He smiled as she sighed loudly. Ah, but there was such pleasure, such contentment and such endless joy.


    Ace left on top of her and he sat next to her. He rested a hand on her abdomen, moving his thumb up and down, stroking the hollow of her belly and the padded jut of her hip bone. ¡°Do you think you¡¯re pregnant?¡±


    She stiffened at what he said. She shoved his hand off her and rolled away. ¡°Get out of my bed. Get out of my life.¡±


    *****

 Chapter 39

    ACE


    ¡°What? Why?¡± He sat up. He was surprised by her reaction. He automatically put on his pants while Gina quickly entered the bathroom. When she came out, she was already wearing a robe.


    ¡°Get out of my house.¡±


    ¡°What did I do? I thought you wanted me as much as I do.¡±


    ¡°I thought you came here because you missed me?¡± She said, breathing hard. ¡°Now I know why you came. You just came here to find out if you got me pregnant.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not¨C¡±


    ¡°Well, here¡¯s a news sh for you, Zorro. I¡¯m on the pill. I¡¯ve been on the pill since we got married. I¡¯m not pregnant, so don¡¯t worry about that. Now, leave my house!¡±


    Instead of leaving, he just put his hands in his pocket. ¡°Don¡¯t you want me to be the father of your child?¡±


    ¡°Are you always this stupid? or is it just me?¡± She threw up her hands and walked away.


    He followed Gina into the living room, where she stormed around the room. He tried to control his temper.¡± I don¡¯t understand you, Gina.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m taking pills because if something happens to us, you¡¯re not responsible. I didn¡¯t want to trap you!¡± Gina yelled at him. ¡°I have no idea how I¡¯m going to continue my love for you when you offer me nothing in return, except obligation and macho attitude. But I¡¯ll tell you this, Ace Roderick Soler III, Maybe I won¡¯t stop loving you until you disappear from my life. So you may leave now. I want to be sane again.¡±


    ¡°Do you love me?¡± He asked quietly.


    ¡°Yes, I love you, Ace. What do you think that¨C¡± she gestured wildly toward the bedroom. ¡°¨Cthat was all about?¡±


    ¡°I love you, too.¡±


    ¡°W-what did you say?¡±


    He took advantage of her stillness to approach her. ¡°WoAi ni, saranghae, te amo, je t¡¯aime, mahal kita, I love you, Gina.¡±


    GINA


    She swallowed what she heard from Ace. ¡°But why did you say you wish we hadn¡¯t met?¡±


    He frowned at what she said. ¡°huh? When?¡±


    ¡°When you had a fever and I recorded you.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think you can hold me responsible for what I have said in a fever, sweetie. But that¡¯s not how I feel. Do you know you are the one who made me aware so that I can reevaluate myself and my dreams. I¡¯m notfortable looking that deeply into myself.¡± Ace pulled her and hugged her, tucking her head under his chin. ¡°Gina, you turned my world upside down. I didn¡¯t know how to handle it. All I could see was the job I had to do. And you kept getting in the way.¡±


    She felt his hugs suddenly tighten. ¡°I feel in love with you anyway. Maybe I was just too coward to confess to you, and I was waiting to hear the wordsing from you first. I¡¯m just afraid that if I show my true feelings for you, it would leave me too vulnerable. Just like what my father experienced. I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll leave me, too. And I¡¯m still afraid of that.¡±


    This time, she hugged Ace too. ¡°I won¡¯t ever leave you, Ace. I promise!¡±


    ¡°I want to marry you again, Gina.¡±


    She leaned back at the hesitation in his voice. ¡°Maybe we shouldn¡¯t rush, Ace. How is your work?¡±


    She saw him scratch his head. ¡°I love what I¡¯m doing, Gina.¡±


    ¡°Of course you do.¡±


    ¡°I know it¡¯s not cool to say this out loud, but I really love my job. Because I believe that there is really justice and fairness. If I stay in this job, in some way I will be able to help people who aspire to achieve it.¡±


    ¡°Well good. So do I. What¡¯s the problem?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t guarantee you with one house, one ce to raise our children. Promotion often means relocation. And I expect to climb thedder.¡±


    ¡°All right,¡± she answered.


    ¡°If it happens, we are like NPA.¡±? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    ¡°Huh? What NPA do you mean?¡±


    ¡°No Permanent Address. When you dream of having your own house and a lot for your children, I might not be able to fulfill that. There is a chance that our future children will move from school to school if I am reassigned to another ce.¡±


    ¡°Well, if that happens, I don¡¯t have a problem with that at all. I¡¯ll pack up the house and arrange for a mover and off we¡¯ll go.¡±


    ¡°You said you wanted your children to have stability. A sense of ce. That¡¯s what I can¡¯t promise you.¡±


    ¡°I also said I was building a career at home so that I could be there with them. And for me, that¡¯s stability.¡± She rested her hands on his chest. ¡°Did you say that because you see that I am a homebody and it won¡¯t work for us? I can build a home anywhere, Ace. All that matters to me is that we share a life together.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you regret that in the end?¡±


    ¡°Ace. I love you so much. And I loved you when you took care of me, spoiled me and worried about me. I also loved you when you ignored, rejected and ordered me. That¡¯s how love is, right? It won¡¯t be easy all the time. But the love¡¯s not going to change, except to deepen. My home is you, Ace, and home is wherever you are.¡±


    ACE


    Hebed and stroked Gina¡¯s long hair, then he cupped her face with his hands. ¡°Then I think the first order of business should be another wedding.¡±


    Gina didn¡¯t answer, and instead her finger drew the letter Z on his chest. His heart mmed into his sternum, jump-starting desire again.


    ¡°Do you know that for three months I really couldn¡¯t forget you, Ace? And do you know that there is a man who really made me feel what true love is? But when he proposed, I rejected his marriage proposal because of that red teddy bear.¡± She pointed the red teddy bear on disy in the living room.


    ¡°Huh? What¡¯s the thing with that red teddy bear?¡±


    ¡°Because I asked for a sign from the Lord that when someone gives me something that reminds me of you. That means you wille back. The guy gave it to me before the day he proposed. Did you see that it¡¯s not just a teddy bear? It¡¯s a Zorro teddy bear.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I see.¡± He said. He let his imagination lock in the image before he kissed her, thoroughly, possessively, dangerously, dragging her closer and closer. ¡°Then again,¡± he said against her lips. ¡°I think tomorrow might be a better day to n a wedding.¡±


    ¡°And a lifetime.¡± She said.


    He held her near to his heart and closed his eyes. ¡°Yeah sweetie, and a lifetime.¡± He responded softly.


    *****

 EPILOGUE

    A Few Months Later¡­


    ACE


    He walked back and forth restlessly right in front of the main entrance of the church. His best buddies stood rxed, leaning against a marble wall. While he was experiencing the tension in his body again, just like their first wedding. Noel and Jason were just standing next to him, grinning from ear to ear, and he wanted to strangle the two of them as they watched him twitch.


    Any minute now they would head up to the altar to wait for the prettiest bride and the rest of the entourage. Wait. Wait. Wait. Just calm down Ace, wait for a few more minutes, Gina wille too, he said to himself.


    He felt that he was tensed again. He wondered if it was umon for a groom to pass out.


    Why is it that Gina alwayseste? Maybe she did this on purpose, he decided. This was some kind of test, some rite of passage. Well, he still wasn¡¯t going to be affected by her beingte, instead he was going to march right up to the altar like a good boy and wait.


    He just breathed a sigh of relief when his beautiful bride arrived. All the entourage took their ces and they started marching down the aisle. He and the rest of the principal sponsors made their entrance at the scheduled time, and he stood there, a mild smile pasted on his lips as his brain whirled. But when he saw his niece walking down the aisle in her aquamarine blue dress, he stood there rxed. She carefully threw her rose petals from her white basket like the angel she was. His half-sisters and his mother who is from the States were very excited to meet his bride for the first time. His nephew is also cute in his miniature tuxedo. He¡¯s really handsome just like his tito, while the little boy carrying the wedding ring pillow. And there was Loraine his half-sister who was also Gina¡¯s bridesmaid, smiling prettily as she made her way next. Then of course followed by Janice the maid of honor.


    As he watched the empty doorway, he felt the sweat on his forehead. Then and there he saw Gina¡¯s uncle and her mama Joy slowly approaching where he was, and then¨C he saw her. And time stopped. At least his heart did.


    God was his witness, he had never seen anything more incredibly, breathtakingly beautiful than the vision who stepped beside her uncle and mom. Wearing an ivory off-shoulder wedding gown was truly breathtaking.


    As Gina slowly walked towards him, their gazes met. He forced down the voice in his mind that said, ¡°Just wait, Ace. The day¡¯s not yet over.¡±


    When his bride was right in front of him. He raised his hand to stop her, while one of the priests gave him a guitar and a microphone. ¡°Sweetie, didn¡¯t you tell me before that I don¡¯t have amore in my body? I¡¯m sorry I only recently found out that I also have 1% sweet bone in my body, so I¡¯ll never let that 1% pass without singing. Father, can I ask for 5 minutes?¡± He turned to the priest and the crowdughed. ¡°Sweetie, I want to dedicate this song to you.¡± He immediately started ying the guitar.


    He saw that Gina was just dumbfounded and didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°Song For You¡± By Chicago


    Want you to know, I¡¯m a MAN


    Say the words and I¡¯ll say it again


    Want you to know, I¡¯m a MAN you can depend upon


    That¡¯s all, all I am


    Wanted to show, I¡¯m a MAN


    Say the word and I¡¯ll tell you again


    Wanted to show, I¡¯m a MAN you can rely upon


    That¡¯s all I am


    I am a MAN that you can count on


    Call out my name and I¡¯ll be there


    I¡¯m a MAN you can be sure of, baby


    It¡¯s your love that takes me there, takes me there


    Want you to know, I¡¯m a MAN


    Say the words to me, say it again


    Want you to know, I¡¯m a MAN you can depend upon


    That¡¯s all, all I am


    I am a MAN that you can count on


    Call out my name and I¡¯ll be there? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    I¡¯m a MAN you can be sure of, baby


    It¡¯s your love that takes me there


    I am a MAN that you can lean on


    Call out my name and I¡¯ll be there


    I¡¯m a MAN you can be sure of, baby


    It¡¯s your love that takes me there


    I am a MAN that you can count on


    Call out my name and I¡¯ll be there


    I¡¯m a MAN you can be sure of, baby


    It¡¯s your love that takes me there, takes me there


    ¡­..


    Gina bursts into tears after listening to his song and he immediately took her cold hands and led her towards the altar.


    Through the ceremony, he could not take his eyes off the creation who was agreeing to be his wife for richer and for poorer, for better and for worse, in sickness and in health. He admits that Gina was so beautiful. She deserves better than him. She deserves a charming prince in a white cager and castle and swans on ake. But why would he even think about that when he was right in front of her, exchanging her ¡°I do¡¯s¡± and her eyes were even shining when he put their wedding ring on her finger.


    Then he was tugging her down the aisle,ughing her sweetugh. And now he can really say that Gina was finally stuck with him.


    He doesn¡¯t even remember that they were taking pictures. Maybe it¡¯s over because all of a sudden he was having a piece of cake smashed into his mouth. And Gina wasughing at him. Was he stunned during the whole ceremony? He didn¡¯t expect that his heart had the ability to beat, he never imagined marriage all his life. It¡¯s really true. But no, he has no regrets because he is the happiest person in the world now that he and Gina are legally married, and he promises to spend his lifetime loving her.


    He returned to his presence. He saw Gina about to throw away her bouquet, and everyone is anticipating who will be able to catch the bouquet, and it was Janice, she was the one who caught the bouquet.


    Now, it was his turn. He slid the yards of her ivory gown up to Gina¡¯s equally satiny leg, then he heardughter around him.


    He stopped his task long enough to straighten and pull her to him and kissed her wantonly.


    ¡°Sweetie, I promise to be honest with you. I will cherish your seductive smiles and give you mine, share myughter and my children. And I will be your friend, your lover, your husband. Forever.¡±


    Speechless for once, Gina just burst into tears at what he said. ¡°Oh Ace, it took you long enough. But I love you just the way you are. Forever.¡±


    His mouth creased into a perfect smile, and she tipped her face to his, sealing it with a kiss.


    Then he bent again and removed the dainty,ce-trimmed blue garter from above her knee. And he will really make sure that Payton gets the garter so that he and Janice will be the next to get married.


    ¡ª¡ª


    GINA


    It¡¯s been five years since she and Ace got married and only now have they been blessed with a child, children to be exact. In fact, she¡¯s four months pregnant and they¡¯re having twins. But Ace doesn¡¯t know that yet, because she will surprise him that they will not only have one child but two. She can say that God really has his own ways. For five years, they moved from ce to ce for almost ten times. Five days after their wedding they flew straight to Miami because Ace was assigned there. After that he was assigned to another ce, and finally by the grace of God, they are in Washington DC, just 3. 2 kilometers from CIA Headquarters. And atst, they now have a permanent residence. Ace had also be a special agent, and now he was permanently assigned to Langley, Virginia. She did not pursue her dream of bing a designer and instead chose her other dream of bing a writer. As what she promised to her husband that she would build a career at home, and that is what her career now, which is writing novels. She can say that marriage life is not perfect so as Ace, but he loves her more than she could have ever imagined. The tough agent who is unromantic, unppable, and doesn¡¯t believe in happy endings is now her very handsome and lovable husband.


    As unromantic as Ace was then, he is the opposite now. Fairy tales do exist, even in modern times. He treated her like a princess and he was her prince charming. In his arms she felt safe because Ace was her protector and her knight in shining armor. Her belief about marriage came true. One LOVE, One MAN, and One MARRIAGE for a LIFETIME, because until now, Ace Roderick Soler III was still her Man.


    And speaking of her husband, he was here. He finally came home after 3 days without seeing each other due to his work.


    ¡°Hi sweetie, how are you and the baby?¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡±


    Ace bent down and kissed her stomach.


    ¡°Are you hungry, baby? Do you want us to eat outside?¡± He said, caressing the bulge of her stomach.


    ¡°Well it depends, because I¡¯m not sure just how hungry the twins are.¡±


    Ace¡¯s eyes widened with what she said. ¡°Twins?¡±


    She nodded.


    Ace gulped.


    ¡°When I went in for my check up yesterday, the doctor picked up a second heartbeat. An ultrasound confirmed it,¡± she bit her lip and prayed that Ace would be as happy as she was. ¡°We¡¯re having twins, Ace.¡±


    She saw that Ace¡¯s face couldn¡¯t be painted with joy that sent her heart into overdrive even after five years of marriage. Then he dropped a lingering, sizzling greeting on her lips. ¡°You make me the happiest man on earth, sweetie. I missed you so much.¡±


    ¡°I missed you more.¡±


    ¡°I love you so much, sweetie.¡±


    ¡°I love you so much more.¡±


    She really couldn¡¯t exin the joy she felt at that time. Ace stepped back and pressed his hands to either side of her stomach as if to cradle both children nestled inside. ¡°I¡¯m so happy because our child is not only one, sweetie,¡± he said, a corner of his mouth tugged into an irrepressible grin. ¡°Then you¡¯ll be doubly hungry. What do you want to eat now? Pizza? Burger?¡±


    ¡°Well honey pie, I¡¯ve had this weird craving all day.¡±


    ¡°What is that? Apple shake? Chocte-covered pretzels again?¡± Ace asked about what she cravedst week.


    ¡°Nope, I want a custard apple.¡±


    ¡°Custard apple? Can we buy it here in States? Oh sweetie, don¡¯t torture me with your cravings.¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s just what I want,¡± she grumbled.


    ¡°Are you sure about the custard apple, sweetie?¡±


    ¡°Yes. And lots of it.¡± She said while pulling his cor, drawing his head down to hers. She nibbled kisses along his jaw, up to his mouth. ¡°Of course followed by a wee home, a long dessert in bed with my husband.¡±


    Ace smirked, and slid his hands to her hips. ¡°Haha¡­ sounds great to me, sweetie.¡±


    THE END.


    *****


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