《My Sweet Seduction》 RunAway RunAway I FOLDED MY palms inside the bridal car. The nervousness in my chest did not disappear while waiting. I stared intently at the people inside the church who seemed to be in amotion. Later, my mother Letizia approached the limousine I ride. Anxiety was visible on her face. ¡°Hija!¡± she calls between the knocks on the car window. I slowly rolled down the window for her. ¡°Mother, what¡¯s going on?¡± She seemed restless and looked around first. That¡¯s where I got nervous. I straightened up and spoke again. ¡°Mom!¡± ¡°Hija, Lester is not here yet. He must be here early. He is only an hourte,¡± she said. ¡°Maybe he was stuck in traffic, or his car had broken down on the side of the road. I will try to call him,¡± I said quickly and nervously fished the phone inside my clutch bag. But Lester¡¯s phone was turned off. I don¡¯t want to think he will do it, but one thing entered my mind: he will note! I dropped my phone and immediately got out of the car. I don¡¯t care if people in the church look at me. I immediately approached Lester¡¯s mom and hugged her tightly. ¡°Mom, I can¡¯t contact Lester,¡± I said between my rapid breathing. She grabbed my two hands. ¡°Hija, we can¡¯t contact his cellphone,¡± she said as I shook my head down. ¡°He can¡¯t do this to us, Maricar. He can¡¯t embarrass us here!¡± said Don Simon, Lester¡¯s dad. My chest throbbed even harder. Then I left the church crying. ¡°No. This is just a dream,¡± I whispered. I closed my eyes tightly and pinched my arm. I feel like heaven and earth have fallen on me. Tears welled up in my eyes. ¡°You said you love me? Where are you?¡± I said sadly. Cindy, my best friend, approached me. She hugged me tightly and cried like I did. ¡°Margaux, calm down. Maybe Lester was justte,¡± she said while stroking my back. I quickly turned around. I wiped away my tears, then held out my palm to her. ¡°Where¡¯s your key?¡± ¡°Where are you going? Just wait a little more. Maybe he wille,¡± she insisted. ¡°Give me your key!¡± I shouted. She sighed before speaking again. ¡°In your condition now, you¡¯re definitely can¡¯t drive properly. I will drive for you.¡± ¡°Just give me your f*cking car key!¡± I shouted emphatically. Cindy seemed shocked at what I said and bit her lip. She finally reached for her key while the sorrow was in her eyes. I heard my dad called me. ¡°Margaux!¡± I just nced at Dad before I ran towards Cindy¡¯s car. I saw their attempt to chase, but I pulled the car away. I don¡¯t even know where I¡¯m going. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Mom and Dad,¡± I whispered. I wiped away the tears that kept on falling. I know I disappointed them this time. If I could just turn back time, I would not want to embarrass them in front of so many people. ¡°F*ck you! B*stard!¡± I shouted. I was ready. I really wanted to start a family with him, but what he just did? What have I done wrong in our rtionship? Very painful. Not just because my family was embarrassed in front of many people but because he made me look stupid. I have no idea why he did this to me. I can say that our rtionship has been smooth in the three years we¡¯ve been together. He often makes an effort himself because I am too busy at work. He also asked us to get married because he said he would present me at the altar. F*cking b*stard! I honked loudly at the one who suddenly overtakes me. ¡°F*ck you! You godd*mn b*stard!¡± I was shocked when the car suddenly stopped in front of me. ¡°Stupid!¡± I blurted out before braking. I quickly got out of the car. I¡¯m wearing a gown, but to hell I care! I knocked on the car¡¯s window. ¡°Hey, whoever you are, get out of there! You don¡¯t own this road, and you have no right to suddenly stop in the middle of the road after you overtake!¡± I shouted with rage. I got away from the car door when it was suddenly opened and pulled out a man wearing sunsses. He was breathtaking in his white polo shirt and dark pants. But I was suddenly startled by the horns of the cars behind us. ¡°Get married, so they don¡¯t chase you on the road!¡± the driver shouted and smiling at us. Even the passengers in the jeepughed and some tremble with excitement. Are they serious? They thought this man left me at our wedding, and I was chasing him? Someone really left me but not this b*stard! I stared at the spectators and confronted the man who had mmed into his car door. ¡°Mr. Whatever, who do you think you are for stopping in the middle of the road?! What if I don¡¯t step on the brake right away?!¡± I want to express my resentment even though I know I am also to me for what happened. But he did not answer. Antipathetic man! I let out a sigh of relief and narrowed my eyes at him. ¡°Are you deaf or something?¡± ¡°I do not see anything wrong with what I did. You are the one who is at fault for cursing me,¡± he said while crossing his arms. ¡°Excuse me? So I¡¯m still to me?¡± I heard him curse while clenching his jaw. He also swallowed a few times. When I gazed up at him, I was taken aback, especially when he took a step closer. N?velDrama.Org owns this. ¡°You¡¯re the reason why I¡¯mte, Miss Runaway Bride,¡± he whispered. I swallowed hard. What did he just say? My two cheeks warmed. ¡°You rudely stopped in the middle of the road! Also, I¡¯m not a runaway bride!¡± He sneezed before speaking. ¡°It looks like your car has no damage. Unless . . . you want me to pay you, right?!¡± He smirked. I was about to answer when a traffic enforcer approached us. ¡°Ah, I beg your pardon. Is there a problem here?¡± asked the man in uniform and issued his ticket to us. ¡°No, nothing. We just have small talk,¡± the man in sunsses confidently answered. His hands were now inside his pants pockets. ¡°Then maybe you can step aside because you are already interfering with the flow of traffic,¡± the enforcer said impatiently. I even saw him looking at me. ¡°Okay. I have a meeting to attend to, so I better be going,¡± said the antipathetic man before tapping the enforcer on the shoulder. He turned his gaze at me before he shrugged his shoulders. ¡°As for you, Miss, you might bete for your wedding. What a waste of your gown and makeup if you just run away!¡± He was stillughing as he got into his car. I winced at what he said. The antipathetic man pulled over his car and even pulled his hand out the window to wave. ¡°F*ck you, b*stard!¡± I shouted. I could do nothing but go back inside my car. ¡°You also have a day with me, you arrogant man!¡± Heartbreaking Heartbreaking I WENT STRAIGHT home to the condo and poured out the pain and resentment at what had happened N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. in the church. I took off my gown. My smile was bitter when I threw it in the trash can. I went into the bathroom and let the water from the shower flow into my body. At the same time, abundant tears flowed. I was like that for an hour before I thought of getting dressed. I slowlyy down on the bed, thinking about what had happened at church, causing tears to fall again on my cheeks. I could feel nothing but the pain in my heart. I woke up to hear Cindy and Mommy knocking outside. They begged me to open the door. Until the noise outside disappears. Maybe they were tired, or maybe they chose to give me time to be alone. *** I WOKE UP because of the sunlight hitting my face. I just fell asleep with the window of my room open. I got up and prepared myself to go to the office today, though I already file a leave for the wedding, which did not happen. ¡°Margaux, why are you here? You should rest first.¡± There was a shock in Karen¡¯s voice, my secretary. ¡°I will go crazy if I just mumble in my condo. Besides, I still have a lot to do. There will be holidays again,¡± I said. I was wearing sunsses, so she didn¡¯t pay attention to my puffy eyes. I went straight to my office. ¡°Are you really okay?¡± she asked worriedly. I just smiled at her and removed the sunsses before facing the papers on my desk. ¡°Margaux, if you need someone to talk to, please do not hesitate to call me,¡± she said in a low voice. ¡°I¡¯m okay, Karen. I just don¡¯t want to talk about what happened. I¡¯ll call you when I need something,¡± I told her. ¡°Okay,¡± she answered and then left my office. I began working. I don¡¯t want to free my brain for a moment. Until the inte on my desk rang. ¡°Lester is on the line. You want to talk to him?¡± said Karen on the other line. I closed my eyes firmly before answering. ¡°I¡¯ll talk to him.¡± ¡°Hello?¡± said Lester on the other line, but I did not answer. How my heart broke when I heard his voice. ¡°Margaux, can we talk?¡± My tears flowed. ¡°Baby, I love you . . . I know you know that. Something just happened that I couldn¡¯t make it to our wedding. Please, I need to talk to you,¡± he said, begging. ¡°Babe?¡± I took a deep breath before speaking. ¡°Okay. Let¡¯s talk after office hours.¡± Then I quickly dropped the call. The day ended quickly, which I barely realized because I made myself busy. ¡°It¡¯s Lester again,¡± Karen said on the inte. I pressed the enter button. ¡°Hello?¡± ¡°I¡¯m outside your office,¡± he said. ¡°Okay, I¡¯m going down.¡± I didn¡¯t bother to fix myself like I used to. I didn¡¯t put lipstick and blush on. When I came out of the building, I immediately saw Lester leaning against his car. My chest throbbed loudly. He was wearing a white V-neck shirt, bleached jeans, and rubber shoes. Looks like he just finished taking a bath but forgot to shave. He also appears to be sleep-deprived, as seen by the dark circles beneath his eyes. Despite that, he was still handsome. I also noticed that he was holding a cigarette. When he noticed me, he immediately threw away the cigarette he was holding and greeted me. He would have kissed me on the cheek, but I quickly avoided it. ¡°What else are we going to talk about?¡± I said in irritation. ¡°Let¡¯s talk in some other ce,¡± he said in a low tone. He guided me into his car. ¡°No, thanks,¡± I firmly refused. ¡°I better use my car.¡± He had no choice but to agree, so I went to a restaurant using my car. ¡°What do you want to eat?¡± he asked as we sat down. ¡°Just water,¡± I answered even though my stomach was boiling earlier. I¡¯m hungry, but I don¡¯t want to be with him for long. ¡°Marg, baby . . .¡± He held my hand resting on the table. ¡°Don¡¯t you f*cking call me that!¡± I said emphatically and pulled my hands. ¡°Look, Margaux . . . I¡¯m sorry for what I did. Something unexpected happened yesterday,¡± he said while shaking. ¡°My God, Lester, I thought we both wanted this ever since I said yes to you. You simply threw away what we had for over three years!¡± I spat. ¡°Believe me, I really want to spend the rest of my life with you . . .¡± he said in a low voice, then took my hand again andid a soft kissed there. I stared at him intently. From my viewpoint, he was still attractive. His eyes are ck, he has a sharp nose, and his lips are crimson. Adonis-like in appearance. Suddenly the pain in my heart changed. I didn¡¯t want to cry in front of Lester, but my tears were about to fall. ¡°Please tell me, Les . . . What happened between us? Where is your promise that you would not hurt me? Our parents were hurt too because of what you did!¡± Tears welled up in my eyes. ¡°Shh, please don¡¯t cry, babe.¡± He wiped away my tears. ¡°Stop it! Bullsh*t!¡± I shouted and yanked his hand away from my face, which caused us to get the attention of other customers. ¡°Please, baby, just give me one more chance. I can fix this. I promise!¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear any reason why you didn¡¯te to our wedding. I guess this will be the end of our rtionship. After all, we can never get everything back to normal because you already broke us!¡± I got up and went out of the restaurant. ¡°Margaux!¡± Lester chased after me, and when he reached out, he grabbed my arm tightly. ¡°Let go of me!¡± I violently grabbed my arm. ¡°No, Margaux. We haven¡¯t finished yet. Come inside again, please . . .¡± he begged as if he was running out of patience. ¡°There¡¯s nothing between us, Lester! We¡¯re through!¡± I said in my cold voice. ¡°I will not allow you to leave me. I¡¯m just asking you for a little time for me to fix this problem I got into. Believe me, after this, in any church, I will marry you. Please, baby. . .¡± His voice is gentler, but that is not enough to touch my heart. I pped him hard on the cheek. ¡°F*ck you! I''m not a dog you can leave somewhere ande back to at any time!¡± I shouted. ¡°You are my first love, my first boyfriend, and the person I wanted to spend the rest of my life with,¡± I continued. I don¡¯t care if people outside the restaurant look at us. ¡°I gave you everything, but it¡¯s not enough! It¡¯s just a pain because you are the first one I love, but you are also the first one to destroy me.¡± Tears fell on my face. I deeply regretted crying in front of him, so I quickly wiped away the tears before turning around to run on my car. Shot Shot I DROVE THE car away from the restaurant. I don¡¯t want to stay there for long because I might just swallow everything I said and tter Lester¡¯s sweet words. I didn¡¯t want to go home, so I decided to go to a resto-bar. For a time, I¡¯d want to forget about it. I chose to sit on the stool right in front of the bartender. ¡°One tequ, please,¡± I said. ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am!¡± A few minutester, the bartender put down the tequ shot ss, which I immediately drank straight. ¡°One more, please!¡± I ignored the lemon in front of me. What could be more bitter than how I feel? Even if I suck a lemon and taste the salt, nothing can beat my already broken heart. ¡°Here, ma¡¯am,¡± he politely said when he gave me another shot. Again, I drank straight. I asked for more until I felt dizzy. ¡°W-waiter, one more, please,¡± I whispered. My eyes were blurry. The bartender shook his head before taking a ss. When he tried to reach for the ss, a hand grabbed it from me and drank it explicitly. ¡°Hey! That¡¯s my drink!¡± I said between hups. ¡°You¡¯re drunk,¡± a man said in his baritone voice. I chuckled and slowly lifted my head to look at him. ¡°And who the hell are you?¡± I slurred. I also made a few blinks. I couldn¡¯t see him very clearly because of the re from the lights. But he looks tall. His jaw was prominent and perfectly sharp. When our eyes met, my heart throbbed. ¡°Where do you live? I¡¯ll take you home,¡± he softly said. ¡°Who are you to take me to my house, huh?!¡± I eximed, nudging at his broad chest. I noticed that he was physically strong. ¡°You¡¯re drunk. You can¡¯t drive on your own,¡± he replied. He looked at the bartender before he took money in his pocket. ¡°Keep the change.¡± He handed the payment and then confronted me again. ¡°Let¡¯s go. I will take you home,¡± he said with authority this time. Because I was drunk, I could do nothing but go with him. But before we could leave, we met Lester, who was obviously shocked to see us. ¡°Baby, what happened?¡± The expression on Lester¡¯s face immediately changed when he saw the man with me. ¡°What did you do to my girlfriend, huh?!¡± Then he suddenly punched the man with me, who immediately backed away because of what he had done. My jaw dropped. It was as if cold water had been poured on me because of what had happened. ¡°Stop it, Lester!¡± But the man with me returned the punch, causing Lester to fall to the floor. Lester would have retaliated, but I intervened between the two of them. ¡°F*ck! I said stop!¡± I shouted again with all my might. ¡°Margaux, don¡¯t you see? That man wants to take advantage of you!¡± Lester shouted back. ¡°He just wanted to take me home,¡± I exined. D*mn it, why do I have to exin my side to this jerk? ¡°And did you agree? What if he does something bad to you?!¡± His eyes widened, his mouth also raging with anger. The hell with his concern. ¡°You don¡¯t care what I do in my life anymore because we are done. You have no right to take me away from the man I want!¡± I said, full of rage. I didn¡¯t wait for him to answer. I pulled the hand of the man with me out of the bar. We got straight into my car and let him drive for me after telling him where my condo was. I leaned back in my chair and quickly fell asleep. Until I felt like my shoulder was shaking by someone. I slowly opened my eyes and looked up at the guy by my side. He has a perfect pair of brown eyes that drill into mine. I couldn¡¯t help but think, I¡¯d never seen such eyes with so much light in them. My cheeks got hot because of his stare. I cut off my gaze and slightly adjusted myself. ¡°Where are we?¡± ¡°We are here in the condominium you told me,¡± he said in a hushed voice. I cleared my throat and tried my very best to look away. ¡°Uh, yeah . . .¡± That¡¯s all I said. He stepped out of the car to help me open the door. I stepped out of my car with trepidation. However, disorientation and drunkenness caused me to lose my bnce. It was toote for me to regret everything because I had sunk into his wide chest. His sturdy hands held me steady by the waist while I almost hugged him. ¡°Are you alright?¡± he whispered close to my ear. I did not answer immediately. How I seemed to be more intoxicated by the smell of his perfume biting into my nose. D*mn, can I just rest here for a while? His scent . . . I quickly shook my head then I pushed him away. ¡°Yes, of course, I¡¯m okay!¡± I would have walked away, but I could not stop my feet from crossing. I almost jumped when he suddenly grabbed my elbow. ¡°You¡¯re still drunk. Where is your unit here?¡± he asked without looking at me. I slowly looked down at his long fingers. His hand was warm; it made me tremble. ¡°On the fourth floor,¡± I answered hoarsely. Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. As we walked, I couldn¡¯t help but nce at him. He is tall and definitely handsome. His hair was slightly messy, but that did not pave the way for him to reduce his strong appeal. He was making me feel hot, so I took my gaze back from him. We quickly reached my condo unit. I opened the door wide. ¡°Come in first. Want something to drink? Coffee, water, or juice?¡± I asked and smiled. ¡°Coffee would be fine,¡± he answered in a low voice. I quickly nodded and walked toward the kitchen. He is in the living room. When I got back, I found him turning his back and staring at the pictures of Lester and me hanging on the wall. I fake a cough before Iid the coffee on the ss table. ¡°Here¡¯s your coffee,¡± I interrupted. He turned around for a moment but turned his eyes back to the pictures. ¡°Why? Is there something wrong with the photos?¡± I asked with curiosity. ¡°No, nothing,¡± he said, then chuckled. I frowned. ¡°What are youughing at?¡± ¡°I wonder why your wedding didn¡¯t go through. It looks like you guys are perfect,¡± hemented before sipping the coffee I gave him and sitting on the sofa. My forehead furrowed even more. How did he know that Lester and I did not get married? ¡°Is it in the news? Did you hear what happened?¡± I said, exhaling. ¡°No,¡± he answered quickly, then smiled. ¡°In that case, where did you hear about our wedding?¡± I asked impatiently. Honestly, I wouldn¡¯t have asked because I don¡¯t care anymore, but I wonder how he found out. I don¡¯t even know him. He stood up and slowly walked closer. He was an inch away from me before I could think of blinking. ¡°Don¡¯t you remember me?¡± he whispered. I could feel his warm breath in my ear, wanting to consume the rest of my energy. ¡°I was the one you shouted at and pped in the middle of the road. Remember?¡± Confrontation Confrontation MY EYES WIDENED. Anger started to stir up. ¡°You!¡± At the same time, I pushed him hard as my eyes narrowed. ¡°Hey, I have no intention of offending you,¡± he said. Then he smiled, which caused me to see his white teeth and his deep dimple. ¡°Well, nice try!¡± I arched my brow at him. ¡°Look, I¡¯m sorry. I was just chasing a meeting that day,¡± he replied in a calm voice. I did not answer. Instead, I walked to the door and violently opened it. ¡°You can go out now!¡± I said emphatically before averting my eyes. He smirked and slowly walked toward the open door. I stepped back to give him a way, but he stopped right in front of me. ¡°Thanks for the coffee,¡± he muttered under his breath. I remained expressionless. When I think about how stupid I looked in the middle of the road when I hit him, my annoyance with him gradually returned. ¡°Leave,¡± I said with finality. I don¡¯t care if I sounded arrogant orcking manners, but my annoyance really rises. He took another step, and then I bowed for a moment. He took another step while his eyes were staring at me, which cause my heart to pound erratically. ¡°Your ex-boyfriend will surely regret breaking your heart,¡± he said in a calm voice. I slowly looked up at him, mesmerized by his gaze. My lips parted because I want to say something but decided not to continue. ¡°And you know what?¡± he started, ¡°We look better than your ex-boyfriend.¡± *** MANY DAYS PASSED. I kept myself busy at work and spending my time alone at my condo. It was Sunday morning when Cindy came to visit me. ¡°Best friend!¡± she shouted at me before hugging me tightly. I justughed at what she did. ¡°Margaux, Carrick finally proposed to me!¡± She was in tears as she spoke. ¡°OMG! I am so happy for the both of you!¡± My tears welled up before I hugged her tightly. ¡°Margaux, we need to celebrate!¡± she said excitedly. Suddenly the smile faded from my lips as Lester entered my mind and the postponing of our wedding. ¡°Hey, bestie, are you okay?¡± ¡°Of course. I¡¯m okay, and I am happy for you, bestie, so let¡¯s celebrate!¡± I said delightedly. ¡°Really? Are you really okay?¡± She even held my hand, then raised an eyebrow at me. ¡°I want to celebrate your engagement with Carrick.¡± I smiled. We decided to go to the mall and watch a movie. Cindy cried a lot for Popoy and Basha, the leading characters of the movie. Cindy has a soft heart and happy to be with. She never runs out of stories that made meugh so hard. ¡°The movie was great!¡± Imented while entering the shopping mall to buy some dresses and bags. Cindy treat me a dinner at the famous restaurant. So I ordered a lot of expensive food. I do not know why it seems like I want to pour all my frustrations in life into the foods. Maybe this is just my stress reliever. Our happy dinner was interrupted when I noticed a couple entering the restaurant entrance. My lips quivered at them as they sat at a table in the corner. My eyes warmed at what I witnessed. I also couldn¡¯t help but stand up, which surprised Cindy. ¡°Oh, bestie, are you done? You only eat a little, huh?¡± But I didn¡¯t answer. My eyes were focused on the couple, who seems to have a sweet conversation. ¡°My God!¡± Cindy eximed as she turned her gaze to them. ¡°Margaux, what are you trying to do?¡± a warning voice of Cindy stopped me. But I just saw myself stepping closer to the pair. Lester immediately lost his color when he saw me. He also moved a little away from the woman next to him, who frowned at me. ¡°Miss, is there a problem?¡± The woman raised an eyebrow at me. ¡°To you, nothing, but to him, yes!¡± I said bluntly and looked at them with angry eyes. ¡°Margaux, calm down.¡± I felt Cindy¡¯s hand over my shoulder as she leaned close to me. ¡°Please, Margaux, don¡¯t make a scene here,¡± Lester said in a low tone. ¡°Let¡¯s talk,¡± I said. I walked out of the restaurant, but I fire them a sarcastic look before I could do that. ¡°Margaux!¡± Lester restrained my arm when he reached me in the parking space. ¡°Is she the one who took my ce in your heart?!¡± I asked angrily. He just bent down and said nothing. ¡°So, it¡¯s true? You b*stard!¡± I shouted and pped him hard on his face. ¡°I am really sorry,¡± he said softly. He was about to hold my hand when I immediately avoided it. ¡°Can your apology make any difference? I don¡¯t think so,¡± I told him boldly and decided to return to the restaurant. ¡°She¡¯s pregnant!¡± he revealed. N?velDrama.Org owns this. His words exploded like a bomb in my ears that made me stop on my track and could not move. ¡°She¡¯s carrying my son,¡± he added. I shut my eyes firmly. I feel like heaven and earth fall on me. Gradually a grain of tears fell on my cheek. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Margaux.¡± He took my hand again as he approached me. ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I didn¡¯t tell you.¡± His voice cracked. ¡°She is the daughter of Mr. Mondragon, my family¡¯s business partner. When her father found out what happened, he wanted me to take responsibility for the child; otherwise, they would cut all of the connections we have with them.¡± *** CINDY TOOK ME home to my condo. On our way to my condo, I silently stared out the window with so much pain in my heart. She silently turns to me while driving. ¡°Margaux . . .¡± she started. ¡°Why, Cindy? What have I done wrong in our rtionship? Why do I have to be hurt like this?¡± Gradually, tears welled up in my eyes. ¡°No. You have done nothing wrong. If anyone responsible for this, that¡¯s him!¡± The unspeakable anger was also evident in her voice. ¡°He is the one who lost and not you. You do not deserve such kind of a jerk. It¡¯s good that you know everything now.¡± I sighed and nodded. It has been two hours since Cindy left my unit, but I still do not feel sleepy. I will never forget the scene at the restaurant. Starting today, there will be no more tears to fall. I promised myself that that would be thest time I would cry over the same thing, and I would never be hurt again. Lawrence Saavedra Lawrence Saavedra I MADE MYSELF busier in the office the next few days. ¡°Bestie, is everything okay with your wedding?¡± I asked while slicing the grilled pork chop on my te. Cindy invited me to have dinner outside tonight. ¡°I¡¯m working on your gowns. I want you to wear something a little daring,¡± she said while her eyes were glowing. ¡°Don¡¯t make it too pretty. Your brides¡¯ maid might beat you up. You should be the only one who is beautiful there.¡± I chuckled. ¡°No. Of course, my gown also looks fancy and gorgeous for me just because Carrick thinks so.¡± She even touched both her cheeks then shook her head. I just rolled my eyes and continue to eat my food. ¡°We will do the fitting of your gown thising Saturday. Carrick¡¯s cousin is with you to fit his too. Oh, bestie, he¡¯s so handsome! My gosh!¡± she said with a red face. ¡°Tsk. Here we go again, Cindy. I don¡¯t want to be linked to boys yet. I want to focus on our family business,¡± I said with a smile. ¡°Hmp! I just want you to enjoy your life. Also, bestie, Lawrence seems to be single now. Although, from what I heard, he¡¯s a certified Casanova and many women are chasing and crying for him.¡± ¡°So he¡¯s a yboy.¡± I lightly shook my head. ¡°Well, despite that, he¡¯s a good catch. I met him at their family reunion, and Carrick took me to their resort,¡± she said, still thrilled. I just shook my head and continued eating; seems not interested at all. *** SATURDAY CAME, THE day of my gown fitting. Lucky to have a generously proportioned body, so I¡¯m not used to dieting. I got out of the car wearing a white long sleeve polo and spaghetti top underneath. I just matched it with skinny ck jeans and a white stiletto. I let my wavy hair blow over my shoulder. Wearing my sunsses, I went straight into the boutique owned by Cindy. ¡°Good morning, Lenny!¡± I greeted the receptionist at the front desk. ¡°Good morning, Miss Margaux.¡± ¡°Is Cindy already there?¡± ¡°Not yet, Ma¡¯am, but she seems to be on the way,¡± she answered. ¡°Thanks!¡± I turned my back on her and started roaming around the boutique. I see a lot of dresses and mannequins disyed near the ss window. I can say Cindy is sessful. This has always been her dream¡ªto be a famous fashion designer. I was busy looking at the clothes when the man who had just entered the boutique caught my attention. A man in histe twenties, wearing a blue long sleeve polo and ck jeans. He slowly walked toward the front desk with full of authority. I immediately frowned when I saw the man Cindy was referring to. ¡°Hi, I¡¯m looking for Miss Cindy Fajardo?¡± I heard the man asked. ¡°Are you Mr. Lawrence Saavedra?¡± Lenny asked uneasily in her seat. ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°She¡¯s on her way now. Maybe you want coffee or tea first?¡± she offered with a huge smile on her face. My eyebrows rose at what Lenny had done. Why didn¡¯t she even offer me water? ¡°No, thanks. I¡¯ll just wait here,¡± the man said in a baritone voice and sat down on one of the couches there. ¡°Okay, Sir.¡± Lenny¡¯s smile immediately faded from her lips, and she returned to her working table. I secretly smiled because Lenny¡¯s strategy did not work. *** I KEEP LOOKING at Cindy¡¯s work, but I can¡¯t help but return my gaze to the man who was now staring at me. I quickly divert my eyes to the gowns in front of me. Until I felt him stand up and slowly walked closer in my direction. ¡°Hi!¡± he greeted. I slowly nodded. I have to admit, he is breathtakingly hot with his angr face, dark brows, expressive pair of eyes, and heart-shaped lips. I also noticed he didn¡¯t lose his smile as he looked at me. ¡°What¡¯s that smile for?¡± I asked irritably. ¡°Nothing. It¡¯s just . . . what a small world!¡± I rolled my eyes and ignored him. His jaw tightened before turning around and walking towards the front desk. I followed her gaze as I spoke to Lenny. I think the two are getting along well with Lenny¡¯s boisterousughter as if they were the only person inside the boutique. I rolled my eyes again and removed my sunsses impatiently. I started to step out of the boutique. ¡°Ma¡¯am Margaux, are you leaving?¡± Lenny asked me with a big smirk on her face. I looked at her sharply, then the antipathetic man who seemed to lose his grin. ¡°Yes. I will reschedule my meeting with Cindy because I have a sudden meeting,¡± I said. ¡°Ah, is that so? All right, I¡¯ll just tell Ma¡¯am Cindy when she arrives. Just be careful,¡± she said. I finally went out with irritation. I opened the door of my car and rushed into it, but I just sat there. I can¡¯t understand myself. I suddenly felt annoyed at the scene earlier. I calmed myself down before turning on the ignition but was surprised to hear a series of knocks on my car window. There, outside my car, I saw a big smile on Cindy¡¯s face. I quickly lowered the window. ¡°Margaux, where are you going? Aren¡¯t you going to measure your gown now?¡± she asked with a wrinkled forehead. ¡°I have a sudden meeting, so can I just reschedule it? But don¡¯t worry, Lawrence is there,¡± I said firmly, Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. not looking at her directly. ¡°Oh my God, have you met him? What can you say? Isn¡¯t he handsome?¡± she asked tremblingly. Yes, he is handsome! I whispered at the back of my head. ¡°Ah, yes, I met him,¡± I replied before restarting the car engine. ¡°Wait, are you really not going to fit your gown today?¡± she asked with wrinkled brows. I felt guilty because I really didn¡¯t have a meeting to go to. I just wanted to avoid the scene earlier. ¡°Alright, I will cancel all my meetings for today,¡± I said, turning off the engine again then getting out of the car. Cindy¡¯s face lit up, and she hugged me tightly. ¡°Thank you so much, bestie!¡± Lunch Lunch I COULD FEEL the heated stare of Lawrence behind my back. Maybe that¡¯s the reason why I felt my face turn red as I measured the gown. I nced at him. The heat in his eyes made me ufortable. ¡°Isn¡¯t he handsome?¡± the coordinator whispered to me. ¡°That look is not my type,¡± I denied. ¡°Really? But why do your eyes say otherwise?¡± he added. I just did notment because I admitted what he said. After fitting the gown and measuring some more clothes, Cindy finally chose what I would wear. ¡°Alright. You will be wearing a baby pink heart-shaped corset gown. It will definitely lift you up that night,¡± she said. I shook my head. ¡°It¡¯s okay with me even if it¡¯s not too pompous. Besides, it¡¯s your wedding day, not mine.¡± ¡°Bestie, I want you to be the most beautiful after me because I know you deserve it. Even if you wear rags dresses, you will definitely shine,¡± she said as if she encouraging me. ¡°I want you to wear my best work because you deserve it.¡± I smiled at what she said. I was so lucky that Cindy became my best friend. Even when we first met, I was weirded out by her because of her immaturity. ¡°It¡¯s lunchtime. Come on, let¡¯s have lunch together,¡± said Cindy. ¡°Lawrence, join us for lunch,¡± Cindy said. I darted a warning re to Cindy, but she seemed not affected and ignored my protest. ¡°Sure. No problem,¡± Lawrence responded. ¡°Then let¡¯s go!¡± Cindy said promptly, and without hesitation, she grabbed my hand out of the boutique. Cindy took us to a famous restaurant. We were already eating, but Cindy couldn¡¯t stop her mouth from asking Lawrence. ¡°You really love business, huh? Margaux is also concentrating on their family business. I¡¯m sure you two will get along. Try to invite her for some dinner, maybe?¡± Cindy looked at me when I red at her, but she just ignored it. ¡°It¡¯s good to hear that. I actually manage my own resort, and if Margaux wants to have dinner with me, then why not?¡± said Lawrence, whose attention was already on me. My cheeks got hot because of his hot stare. ¡°I heard about the uing celebration for Collins Hotel,¡± he asked. ¡°Yeah,¡± I replied sparingly. ¡°Great. You and Margaux should work together for that event,¡± Cindy said again. ¡°Saavedra Catering Services is well-known when ites to big events. They serve high-ss food and beverages. It¡¯s a brilliant idea, right?¡± ¡°Dad is the one who takes care of everything, but I still suggest one,¡± I said even though the truth is that Daddy is really the one I assigned for the event. Lawrence just nodded at me before returning to his food. Not long after, a woman approached our table. ¡°Baby?¡± Lawrence was shocked. He almost choked while drinking his juice. ¡°Terris, what are you doing here?!¡± he said in surprise. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you answering my calls? I was worried about you! That¡¯s why I flew back here!¡± the woman answered ngily, and without hesitation, she pulled up a chair to sit next to Lawrence. Lawrence was unable to talk right away. He still looks shocked. I could not help but look at the woman in front of us¡ªtall, slender body, corn-colored hair, silkyplexion, and somewhat revealing clothing. She was wearing a mini skirt and a spaghetti strap top. Cindy cleared her throat to grab the attention of the visitor. ¡°Oh, you havepany!¡± she eximed. And that caught Lawrence¡¯s attention. ¡°Yes. By the way, this is Cindy, Carrick¡¯s fianc¨¦e and her friend, Margaux,¡± Lawrence introduced us. ¡°This is Terris Mondragon, a friend of mine.¡± The woman just nced at me before facing Cindy. ¡°So you are the beloved fianc¨¦e of Carrick. I¡¯m d to finally meet you!¡± She grabbed Cindy¡¯s hand. Cindy quickly drew her hand back. She seemed ufortable with what the woman did. ¡°Would you mind if I join you, guys?¡± she excitedly said. We did not wait to answer because she already called the waiter. Cindy and I just looked at each other and quickly finished eating to leave the two. I went straight home to the condo. I was lying on the bed to rest when my cellphone rang on the nightstand. ¡®I¡¯m sorry for what happened earlier . . .¡¯ The sender is an unknown number, but I immediately knew who texted it. It was Lawrence. ¡®Where did you get my number?¡¯ I replied. ¡®Cindy . . .¡¯ he answered. I simply massage my temple before emphatically typing a reply. ¡®Okay!¡¯ N?velDrama.Org owns this. I closed my eyes and was getting ready for bed when the cellphone rang again. ¡®Are you upset?¡¯ I bit my lower lip before typing a reply again. ¡®Of course not!¡¯ ¡®Sorry if I get your number without your permission and for texting thiste.¡¯ ¡®No problem. It¡¯s just a phone number.¡¯ ¡®I know we didn¡¯t have a good start. But I think it¡¯s better if we can give ourselves a try and can be friends.¡¯ I bit my lower lip and shook my head slowly. There is nothing wrong with me making friends with him after what happened between us, right? ¡®Sure!¡¯ I quickly replied. ¡®Alright, thanks. Good night!¡¯ he answered. I smiled and turned off my phone before going to sleep. *** ¡°IS IT REALLY okay for me to wear this?¡± I asked Cindy as I tried to lower my skirt. ¡°Of course. You are really sexy, bestie!¡± she eximed before fixing a few strands of my hair. ¡°Why do you still need sexy attire for your bridal shower?¡± Iined while trying to lift the tube. ¡°Gosh, bestie! That is not very revealing. There is still a ssy look,¡± she told me with a smile that reached her ears. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± He pulled me out of her room. As we entered the function room, where the bridal shower was being held, my lips parted because of what the guests were wearing. Only Cindy¡¯s colleagues, close friends, rtives, and workmates were there. My eyes wandered. The light was dim, and smoke was clouding the area. I chose to sit quietly in a corner when some guests pulled Cindy. A littleter, I heard Trix, the host, speak. ¡°Good evening, everyone! Let us greet our bride-to-be, Cindy Looper, este Cindy Marie Fajardo, our soon-to-be Mrs. Carrick Saavedra!¡± People were shouting. I was also one of the people who apuded. Cindy quickly climbed the stage. ¡°Good evening, guys! Thank you foring here tonight. I¡¯m getting married and I¡¯m f*ckin¡¯ freaking out!¡± she blurted out with a palm on her face which made the guestsugh. ¡°Anyway, let¡¯s enjoy this beautiful night! Let¡¯s start the party!¡± she shouted after raising the ss of wine she was holding in the air. She came down from the stage apanied by deafening apuse and boisterous music. I immediately greeted her with my tight hug. ¡°I¡¯m so happy for you, bestie,¡± I whispered. ¡°Thank you, best friend,¡± she said to me and wiped away her tears. ¡°Please, don¡¯t cry. Let¡¯s enjoy the night!¡± I said. As the night goes on, many of us got drunk, so we danced on the dance floor. Cindy pulled me in the middle. As the melodious music soared, my body swayed. I¡¯m not literally dancing, but I¡¯m on the beat. The audience shouted at us as the music changed to a sexy one. I feel like dancing, maybe because of the spirit of alcohol in my body, plus we are all women here, so I do not feel ashamed. Until I fixed my eyes on the door where thest man I expected to see tonight stood. His eyes roamed my body. There was something in his eyes that I don¡¯t fully understand. No, he shouldn¡¯t be here. Bridal Shower Bridal Shower I JUST CLOSED my eyes and continued dancing but was immediately dted when someone held me. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Instead of answering, he took off his coat and covered my body. ¡°You¡¯re drunk!¡± he shouted because the music is too loud. ¡°No, I¡¯m not!¡± I felt his hand on my wrist, and I was stunned. My heart was pounding. ¡°Bestie, we have a problem. Carrick is here!¡± I heard Cindy say, and I sumbed to her tow as we saw Carrick approaching. ¡°Hello, love! What are you doing here?¡± Cindy asked with wide eyes. ¡°The group decided to continue the bachelor¡¯s party here,¡± he replied and kissed his fianc¨¦e on the cheek. ¡°You should not be here!¡± Cindy muttered. Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. ¡°It¡¯s alright, love. They seem happy to see us,¡± Carrick replied before ncing at some of his I looked to hispanions. I think they are at ten. Some of them are familiar. ¡°Okay, love,¡± Cindy agreed before hugging her groom and giving him a kiss on the lips. Suddenly people shouted as the host introduced the neers. Then I look for Lawrence. I saw him sitting at the high stool in front of the bar while drinking a ss of vodka. My heart almost stopped. I was overwhelmed when his dark eyes and authoritative aura hit me. I couldn¡¯t stand his hot stare, so I quickly cut my gaze to it and looked for the way to thefort room. *** WHEN I RETURNED, I sat right next to Cindy in front of Carrick¡¯s guests. I stared at them. I was familiar with Jocko, the son of one of our business partners, and Lawrence, right in front of me. I shifted on my seat ufortably. Until now, I can still feel the heat of his stares at me. ¡°Bro, introduce us to your partner.¡± I nced at Carrick, who turned his face at me. ¡°Guys, I¡¯d like you to meet Margaux Collins, my fianc¨¦e¡¯s best friend,¡± said Carrick. Then they started introducing one by one until someone extended a hand to me. ¡°Hi! I¡¯m Peter Monteverde. Nice to meet you, Margaux.¡± ¡°Nice to meet you too, Peter,¡± I replied. I couldn¡¯t help but gasp because of the tightness of his grip on my hand. I looked at him. He is handsome. His eyes were pale with his white color, his lips were redder¡ªand I think absolutely soft¡ªand his nose seemed to be perfect. His haircut gave him a stronger appeal. I slowly pulled my hands from his grip and smiled. The night deepened. Almost everyone in the room was already dancing. Carrick and Cindy were also there, and they were in charge of the dance floor. Peter approached me again. ¡°Hi! Will you dance with me?¡± he asked in a resonant voice. For a moment, my gaze flew to Lawrence. He had been quiet the whole night. I did not have a chance to talk to him and return the coat I¡¯m still wearing tonight. I finally turned to Peter, who had already held out his hand to me. ¡°Sure,¡± I answered. We quickly reached the dance floor and danced to the melodious music. ¡°You¡¯re so beautiful, Margaux,¡± Peter whispered to my ear. I shut my eyes when he wrapped his arms around my waist. ¡°Can I ask you something?¡± he whispered again. ¡°Hmm, what is it?¡± I met his gaze. He bowed slightly to me. ¡°Can I court you?¡± he asked sweetly. I was about to answer when Peter¡¯s grip tightened on my waist. He slowly lowered his face and looked at my plump lips. He was about to kiss me, but I was surprised at what happened next. Lawrence grabbed Peter¡¯s arm and pulled me away. Then he quickly punched him that caught the attention of some people at the party. I was about to answer when Peter¡¯s grip tightened on my waist. He slowly lowered his face and looked at my plump lips. He was about to kiss me, but I was surprised at what happened next. Lawrence grabbed Peter¡¯s arm and pulled me away. Then he quickly punched him that caught the attention of some people at the party. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?!¡± Peter tried to stand up, but Lawrence kicked him again. That¡¯s where I intervened. ¡°What is your problem?¡± I red at him. Lawrence did not hesitate to answer. Instead, he pulled me out of the room. The next thing I knew, I was already in his car and shouting because of the speed of his car. ¡°Stop this car, Lawrence! Where are you taking me?! I will call the police!¡± ¡°Shut up, or I will f*cking kiss your lips!¡± he said in a serious voice. ¡°D*mn it!¡± Who is he to do that?! I leaned my head against the backrest and did not realize that I had fallen asleep due to the extreme dizziness. When I opened my eyes again, Lawrence greeted me. ¡°Here we are,¡± he said in a low voice. I quickly sat up and rolled my eyes at him. The air I took was not enough to relieve the nervousness rising in my heart. ¡°Where are we? Why did you bring me here?¡± I asked alertly. He did not answer, but he got out of the car and went to my side to open the door for me. I still wanted to protest, but I was amazed by the beauty in front of me when I turned around. I¡¯m at the Saavedra Resort. This is the ce where Cindy and Carrick¡¯s wedding will be held tomorrow. ¡°Let¡¯s go inside. It¡¯s too cold here,¡± Lawrence told me. He headed to the front desk to ask for a key. I followed quietly until my feet stop on their presidential suite. After he opened the door, I was immediately amazed at what I saw. The room is veryrge with white and gray walls. The couch matches the color of the wall. The patchwork carpet in front of the t-screen TV is wonderful. There is an open bookcase near the mahogany table and blue armchair. Everything is perfect. I couldn¡¯t help but admire some of the more expensive items, such as the chandelier and nt pots. I was already enjoying the sight when I noticed Lawrence was no longer beside me. I nced at the open door in the distance. I slowly walked to the door and touched the handle to open it. I wandered around the room carefully. I was even more amazed to see the king-size bed. Iy down slowly. I closed my eyes and felt the warmth and softness of the bed. But I suddenly woke up when I heard the rush of water from the shower. The nervousness immediately rose to my heart. But I just chose to lie down and turn a blind eye. I was so shocked when I heard the shower was turned off. My heart almost stopped. I heard the door open and its soft closing. But after a while, I didn¡¯t hear anything, so I slowly open my eyes. But I was shocked to see Lawrence standing in front of me¡ªhalf-naked. Saavedra Resort Saavedra Resort ¡°WHAT THE?!¡± I quickly stood up and covered my blushing face tightly. ¡°You can use the shower if you want. I have prepared clothes for the employees,¡± he said softly as if nothing had happened. ¡°No, thanks.¡± I lowered my hand and pretended not to be affected by his body. He was now wearing his ck shorts. ¡°As for what happened earlier, I just want to apologize for my action,¡± he began. ¡°You should not have done that,¡± I said in my low voice. ¡°Peter took advantage of you. Didn¡¯t you notice that? He took advantage of you because you¡¯re drunk; that¡¯s why he tried to kiss you.¡± I watched his jaw clenching so hard, and the darkness of his eyes was staring at me intently. ¡°But you should not hurt him! Besides, we¡¯re just dancing!¡± I said without blinking. ¡°So you mean, you like the idea of him kissing you?¡± I could not believe what he said. ¡°Of course not!¡± I said quickly. ¡°I¡¯m not buying it,¡± he said while shaking his head. I gave him a frown. His acts are unfamiliar to me. He¡¯s someone I¡¯ve never met before. We didn¡¯t know each other very well, so he would reprimand us like this. ¡°Like you said, I¡¯m drunk! And you have nothing to do with it. Who are you to interfere with what I am doing?!¡± I tried to raise my voice. But he smiled. As I watched him, I became even more confused and trembling. ¡°If I do that to you, will you do nothing to stop me?¡± He took a step towards me which I suddenly worried about. ¡°Answer me, Margaux,¡± he said softly. He also gently touched my chin and slowly lifted it to align our eyes. I¡¯m running out of words. I could not help but tremble because of his scorching stares. He tilted his head slightly, trying to attract my eyes and find my soul. He slowly stroked my cheek. I saw his perfect jaw tighten as he slowly lowered his gaze to my lips. ¡°Lawrence,¡± I whispered. I want to push him, but why do I not have the strength to do that? He lowered his head, and I stood frozen from both fear and excitement. The next thing I knew, he brushed my lips with his unfamiliar kiss. It is light. There are no fireworks or sparks, but there is something better. That kiss got even hotter when he hugged me around the waist and pulled me closer to him. I was almost drunk on his kisses, but he suddenly stopped. ¡°Margaux,¡± he said between his quick breaths. I saw the me in his eyes. Without hesitation, our lips reunited. Until I felt the softness of the bed. I could not avoid the ented growls between our kisses. I was already carried away by the heat he brought. I also don¡¯t know why I let him do this to me. Gradually, one of his hands traveled from my arm up to my shoulder to my chest. I was not ready for what he did next. I lost control. I wasn¡¯t wearing enough clothes to hide what he was trying to find. A sweet moan escaped from me when hispulsive mouth imed my trembling lips. A violent thrill ran down my spine as he kissed me. I waspletely hypnotized, but then, he pulled away. We both caught our breath as he stared at me. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said. I swallowed hard and bit my lip. I shrugged at what he said. I felt like I wanted to p him, but I seemed to lose my strength as he eventually moved away from me. ¡°Rest here. I¡¯ll just deliver your things and talk to Cindy. I was just in the other room.¡± I just nodded even though my heart was hurting. And I don¡¯t know why but I followed him out the door. But before I could finally get out, I stopped. N?velDrama.Org owns this. ¡°What the f*ck are you doing, Margaux?¡± I told myself, then I pinched myself before tapping my own forehead andy back down on the bed. *** I WOKE UP to the cold air that touched my cheek. The sun has risen, and I was greeted by the sweet chirping of birds and the cold breeze of the ocean. I nced at the side table where breakfast was ced and a small note glued to a red rose. I walked towards the veranda and read the letter attached there. Good morning love. I apologize for what I didst night. Eat breakfast. I will be busy all day. Enjoy the good weather. - Lawrence A smile shed on my lips, and I slightly smelled the rose. The cold breeze blew, which gave me the idea to just stay here and escape the world. I chose to dine on the veranda while gazing at the beautiful view of the ind. Until I noticed that my bag was already there. There¡¯s also a new dress ready for me to wear. It¡¯s a yellow dress that cinches in at the waist. There is also a t white sandal and a pair of undergarments. My two cheeks immediately warmed up. How did he find out my size? My hand trembled as I touched the red underwear. The redness on my face still did not go away even after taking a bath because of the clothes he gave me. But I admit, they are perfect for my body. I made a few more circles in front of the mirror before I decided to leave the suite. Then I decided to go for a walk on the beach because of the wonderful weather. I sat in a lounge, closed my eyes, and remembered the kiss that Lawrence and I had shared. Until I realized what I was thinking, so I shook my head. Stop it, Margaux. You know the three-month rule, right? I guess it¡¯s too early for me to feel anything for him. I took a deep breath before thinking of going to Carrick and Cindy¡¯s beach wedding. People are busy arranging decorations. Every detail is carefully scrutinized. One of my dreams is to get married in a paradise-like ce. I want to have a wedding that will resonate in people¡¯s minds and leave them happy memories. I smiled bitterly. Maybe Lester wasn¡¯t destined for me. Maybe someone else deserves my love. I decided to go back to the hotel to rest. I was crossing the road when Lawrence grabbed my attention. He was busy chatting with someone. I can clearly see him from my seat. He was wearing a white polo shirt, loose folded long sleeves up to his elbow, ck pants, and shiny oxford shoes. Then I suddenly thought of his smiles that made my heart jump and his sexy lips that could make me gasp. I bit my lower lip, and my knees almost weakened when he turned to look at me. I held my breath as we stared. I saw him say goodbye to the person he talked to before turning to walk in my direction. ¡°Hi!¡± he greeted with a soft smile on his lips. ¡°H-hello,¡± I stammered and did not bother to look him in the eye. ¡°How was your breakfast? Sorry, I couldn¡¯t wait for you to wake up. I have so much work today.¡± Sunrise Sunrise ¡°IT¡¯S OKAY! THE breakfast is delicious, so it¡¯s okay,¡± I said shyly, although I have not forgotten what he did to mest night. ¡°The dress fits you perfectly. You look beautiful today,¡± he praises. ¡°Thank you for the dress. You shouldn¡¯t have bothered in the first ce.¡± My cheeks be redder. ¡°Don¡¯t think about it. You¡¯re beyond gorgeous in that dress,¡± he replied before turning his back on me and return to the man he talked to earlier. With delight in my heart, the heat traveled to my cheeks. I followed him with my gaze. I thought I¡¯d just go back to the suite first and called Cindy. But I¡¯m frozen to my feet when I saw Peter approaching me. ¡°Peter?!¡± ¡°Yes. You must be shocked?¡± A sweet smile shed on him. ¡°No¡ªhonestly, yes!¡± I muttered. Heughed a little. I quickly turned to Lawrence, who was now busy talking to someone again. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for what happenedst night. How are you? You alright?¡± I asked Peter. I looked at his cracked lip. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m better now,¡± he replied as if nothing had happened. A moment of silence intervened between us. ¡°Uhm, are you with Carrick?¡± I asked. ¡°Yes.¡± I nodded. I nced again at Lawrence, who was now staring intently over us. My heart began to pound as he walked in our direction with hisshes knitted brows. ¡°Ahm, I¡¯ll better go. Nice meeting you again,¡± I told Peter. I was about to turn around when he grabbed my wrist. I turned nervously to him after ncing at Lawrence, who¡¯s approaching us. ¡°Margaux, I told you, I wanted to court you. I wanted you to know that I¡¯m serious,¡± Peter confessed. I was about to answer, but Lawrence was already close to us. ¡°What are you doing here?!¡± he asked Peter earnestly. ¡°The groom invited me,¡± Peter replied in a calm voice. I noticed Lawrence¡¯s gaze drop to my wrist that is still holding Peter. ¡°This is my resort,¡± Lawrence said. ¡°Everything you see with your eyes belongs to me. Can you leave peacefully or do you want me to add more bruises to your face?¡± Peter grinned and stood beside me. ¡°I do not know why you¡¯re acting like that. Are you jealous?¡± I looked at Lawrence, waiting for his answer. ¡°Are you kidding me?¡± Lawrence smirked. Obviously not stained with cowardice. ¡°I am a Saavedra. That should not be asked.¡± My gaze fell to the ground because I did not expect that answer. ¡°You¡¯re right. You are a Saavedra,¡± Peter sneered back. ¡°I just don¡¯t want to see a woman being abused in front of me,¡± Lawrence shot back. ¡°Hey, she¡¯s not your girlfriend! Thest time I checked, you and Terris were dating. Don¡¯t tell me you want to include Margaux to those women you y with?¡± A smile shed on Peter¡¯s lips after he spoke. I saw the disapproval on Lawrence¡¯s face, but he remained silent. I swallowed hard. Silence means yes, right? It looks like he really intends to include me in those women he wants to y with. I closed my eyes, trying to reduce the emotion that made me tremble. ¡°There is nothing wrong with flirting with Margaux,¡± Peter said. Lawrence clenched his fist in silent anger. I saw his perfect jaw move before he spoke. ¡°It¡¯s okay. You can do what you want.¡± He nced at me first before saying goodbye to Peter and me. The pain I felt as I followed him was unfamiliar. ¡°Are you alright?¡± Peter asked me. ¡°I want to rest first. My head suddenly aches,¡± I excused myself. ¡°Would you like me to take you to your suite?¡± he offered. ¡°No, you don¡¯t have to. I can do it,¡± I answered quickly. I didn¡¯t want him to know that I was in Lawrence¡¯s suite. He frowned at my answer, so I smiled a little. ¡°I¡¯m really fine. Thanks for the offer, but I can really do it. Thank you again,¡± I said goodbye before starting to walk away. When I got to the front of Lawrence¡¯s suite, I was reluctant to knock on it. I couldn¡¯t help but look around, and I couldn¡¯t avoid the gazes of several employees. Before knocking, I took a deep breath and gathered my strength in my chest, but no one answered. I was about to turn around when it opened. My jaw almost dropped when I recognized the woman who opened the door for me. ¡°Terris?¡± ¡°Margaux? What are you doing here? Are you looking for Lawrence?¡± The corners of her lips twisted. I noticed she held the towel wrapped around her tightly, indicating she was not wearing anything underneath. I barely had time to react because she immediately raised an eyebrow and leaned against the door. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry. Lawrence is in the bathroom, taking a bath. Do you want toe in first?¡± A smile shed on her lips when she said that. ¡°N-not anymore. Thanks anyway!¡± I quickly turned my back on her. I cannot name the pain that was constantly evolving in my heart. But one thing¡¯s for sure, that pain hits me big time. I just decided to go to the front desk on my own. ¡°Excuse me, Miss. I am one of the guests of Mr. Carrick Saavedra. Can you kindly check if he has a reservation for me? I am Margaux Collins,¡± I introduced myself. ¡°All right, Ma¡¯am,¡± the attendant replied between smiles. She looked at the monitor for a moment, then spoke to me again. ¡°Ma¡¯am, I apologize, but our president has already canceled your reservation.¡± ¡°What?!¡± My tone rose; that¡¯s why some people looked at us. I closed my eyes for a moment and felt the irritation. ¡°Can you give me another room?¡± I said, recovering from the shock. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ma¡¯am, but we¡¯re full right now because of the wedding guests,¡± she told me. ¡°But I¡¯m also a guest here!¡± I pointed my finger at myself. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ma¡¯am,¡± she apologized. Without a smile, I turned my back on her and marched back to Lawrence¡¯s suite. He can¡¯t do this to me. Where will I stay if he canceled my room reservation? When I approached his suite, I knocked on the door without hesitation. And Lawrence opened it for me. ¡°Why did you do that?!¡± I started with so much anger. ¡°What?¡± He frowned as he dried his hair with a towel. He was wearing a simple white shirt and ck pants. For a little while, I was distracted by the well-groomed Lawrence in front of me. ¡°You canceled my hotel reservation. Do you think I will allow myself to stay in your room?¡± I said as my Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. sanity returned. ¡°Why not? Do you want to sleep outside the resort?¡± His shoulders trembled with a silentugh. ¡°No way!¡± I eximed. He just shrugged his shoulders at me before he opened the door wide and turning away. I took a deep breath and shook my head. Eventually, I decided to step inside. My eyes immediately searched for Terris, but there was no trace of her inside. ¡°If you are looking for Terris, I cast her out of my suite. She entered here without my permission and tried to seduce me,¡± he said. ¡°If you think something is going on between us, then you are wrong,¡± he added. Cindys Wedding Cindy''s Wedding I REMAINED SILENT. I have no intention of discussing this matter further because I am not in the position to ask him for an exnation. I just went straight to the room he had reserved for mest night and slumped on the side of the bed. I calmed myself a few times before noticing the red rose he had given me. I closed my eyes for a moment and smelled its scent. I can¡¯t help but smile when I saw again the letter he wrote. ¡°Hmm. Lucky rose . . .¡± My eyes opened. Lawrence leaned against the door frame staring at me with a curved lip. His dimple shows. I can¡¯t help but be overwhelmed. What would it be like to be trapped in his arms, especially if something more serious had happened to usst night? I quickly shook my head and scolded myself for thinking about that. ¡°Our lunch is ready. Let¡¯s eat,¡± he said before leaving. I quietly followed because I actually starving. He pulled out a chair for me and gently tapped my shoulder before sitting down in front of me. We ate quietly as if nothing happened. ¡°So, how is Peter?¡± He rolled the wine in his ss and looked carefully into my eyes. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. ¡°Hmm, he was okay,¡± I replied. I noticed that he just raised an eyebrow before continuing to eat. He never spoke again. But I was surprised when he leaned against me and my back stiffened in the chair. I close my eyes as he wipes the edge of my lip. My heart melted. I also feel like my cheeks are already red because of embarrassment. ¡°Sorry,¡± he said before returning to his seat. I swallowed. ¡°All right.¡± We looked at each other until his phone rang in his pocket. I had the opportunity to watch him. This guy is definitely attractive. He has tiny sparkling eyes and a voice that is warmer than sunlight. I blinked when he spoke. ¡°Finish your meal. I have important things to do at the reception.¡± Lawrence left immediately when I finished eating. I didn¡¯t even try to leave the suite and just chose to call Cindy. I was expecting her sequential question, but I did not give any details because I was not sure of what Lawrence and I have. After I learned that she had arrived at the resort, Cindy and I headed to the suite. Lawrence and I are still on her mind, and she has a lot to say about it. At first, she did not want to believe that nothing happened between us, so she kept on asking other questions. But I remained silent even when we got to her suite to put on the gown for the wedding. My belongings that Lawrence himself allegedly brought were already there. ¡°All right. I¡¯ll believe nothing happened to you two, but just a little,¡± Cindy said tremblingly as she faced the dresser. She has her hair and makeup fixed. I rolled my eyes. It also makes no sense even if I exin; after all, it looks like she has no intention of believing my answers. I looked again at the gown I was going to wear. I frown because the gown was too revealing. I don¡¯t really like to wear this. If it weren¡¯t for Cindy¡¯s wedding, I would definitely not be able to enjoy it. ¡°You look so gorgeous! I told you, my works really belong to you,¡± said Cindy when we were both ready, and I was already wearing the gown. ¡°Look at yourself in the mirror!¡± She pulled me over and presented me in the full-length mirror while she was in the back. ¡°You are so beautiful.¡± I pursed my lips. I looked at her and shifted her into my seat. I took a step behind her and grabbed both of her shoulders. ¡°I am nothingpared to you, bestie. You are better. You are blessed and precious. Carrick is very lucky because you are the one he will marry,¡± I told her. She shook her head slightly and smiled, but I saw a pearl of tears that wanted to spill from her eyes. I couldn¡¯t wait for her to cry, so I hugged her from behind. ¡°I¡¯m sure that Carrick will love you more than anything in this world. I can assure him that you are with him in building a family and in growing old,¡± I told her. She grabbed my arm that was hugging her and nodded. She definitely refuses to be emotional because of her makeup. I finally let go of her when the wedding nner and the photographer knocked. The photographer said that the photoshoot will begin with some flower girls, then bridesmaids, andst are her parents. After the long photoshoot, we were called for the uing wedding. So I left Cindy to go to the venue first. *** ¡°MARGAUX!¡± I HEARD someone call me. ¡°Peter!¡± ¡°Wow! You look gorgeous tonight!¡± The admiration in his eyes could not be denied. ¡°Thank you. You too.¡± He was very handsome in his ck suit. ¡°Thanks,¡± he said with a smile before winking at me. He held out his hand to me, and I weed him. I even looked at Carrick, who was always with his best man Lawrence. My heart pounded so fast as I watched his dark and dangerous eyes. He¡¯s wearing a ck tuxedo, while the groom is wearing a white tuxedo. The weather was suitable for the wedding because the sky was very clear. The evening sky was incredible, along with the cold breeze. My eyes twinkled with excitement. I feel like I¡¯m in a fairytale, but sadly I¡¯m not the bride. I can¡¯t help but go back to the painful things that happened between Lester and me. Maybe it¡¯s just time to heal the wound he left in my heart. I stopped thinking when some guests started making noise. I saw Cindy start walking. She is very beautiful in a white gown. It sat just below the knee and was surrounded by dazzling stones that further entuate its beauty. There was a smile on her face. This is probably her widest smile ever since I met her. Escape Escape A FEW HOURS after the wedding, guests went straight to the Pavilion de Saavedra, where the reception will be held. I decided to sit in a corner that was not too crowded as I quietly sipped the wine in the ss I was holding. ¡°Why don¡¯t you join them?¡± I suddenly turned to the source of the voice. Lawrence stood beside me, holding a ss of champagne. I sipped my wine instead of answering. ¡°Don¡¯t drink too much, Margaux,¡± he reminded me. I frowned at him and took another ss from a passing waiter. ¡°It¡¯s just wine, Lawrence,¡± I answered sparingly. I was about to drink again, but he snatched it and drank it straight. I just felt sorry for him for what he did. Then he suddenly took off his coat and covered it on my skin. ¡°Thanks,¡± I murmured. ¡°You look pretty as always,¡± he said in his husky voice. I looked up at him. He has a pleasant expression. ¡°It¡¯s getting colder here.¡± He gently took my hand and guided me out of the pavilion. But we stopped because of the coupleing in. ¡°Lawrence!¡± the woman called him happily, then kissed him on the cheek. ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re here, Sarah. I¡¯m sure Carrick will be happy to see you!¡± Lawrence said. My attention was drawn to the woman¡¯s maternity dress that could no longer hide the swelling of the abdomen. ¡°Ah, brother, I¡¯d like you to meet Lester, my fianc¨¦,¡± her introduction to the man next to her. There was a long silence between the four of us. The two men stared at each other. Lester was the first to avert his eyes and look at Lawrence and me, who were holding hands. I swallowed and averted my eyes. I still feel the pain of what he did to me, but I will get used to it. I just have to pretend that I already ept what happened between Lester and me. ¡°By the way, this is Margaux Collins, my date for tonight,¡± Lawrence said. I looked at Lawrence in shock, then at Lester. I saw the shock in Lester¡¯s eyes; it made my eyebrows raised. I want to show him that I am not miserable even if he leaves me. I want to show that I¡¯m capable of epting that he belongs with someone else, and someday I will be someone¡¯s everything. I closed my eyes tightly as they said goodbye to Lawrence. I took big steps when I started walking. I could also feel the look of some visitors on me. My heart wanted to explode with anger because Lester explicitly exposed the woman he traded for me in public. Until I heard Lawrence¡¯s voice beside me. ¡°Take my hand.¡± Then he quickly grabbed my palm. We remained silent the whole time even though we had already left the pavilion and continued walking. Until we stopped at the ancestral house. ¡°Why are we here?¡± I asked him curiously. ¡°I just need to unwind.¡± His voice melted away my insecurities and hatred. We stepped inside. I can¡¯t help but admire the old style of the house. It is obviously kept clean because there is no noticeable dust or dirt around it. I walked towards therge veranda and inhaled the fresh air. ¡°You can breathe here,¡± he said before raising both hands on the ledge and looking away. ¡°I can¡¯t thank you enough for what you did,¡± I sincerely said. ¡°I just did what I had to do. I also do not want to have a conflict between Sarah and me,¡± he admitted. I nced at him before nodding. ¡°You can stay here for as long as you want. You can also sleep here tonight,¡± he told me. I did not answer. It was nice to stare at him from this angle. He looked so handsome with the way he clenched his jaw and furrowed his brows. When he turned to look me in the eyes, my heart pounded erratically, so I quickly averted my eyes and adjusted myself. ¡°Are you enjoying the view?¡± he asked softly. My lips twitched. I did not know what he wanted to point to in his question, so I chose not to answer. ¡°When did you meet Sarah?¡± I couldn¡¯t help but ask. ¡°Sarah is Terris¡¯s younger sister. There¡¯s nothing special about her,¡± he said. He nced at me. ¡°You need to rest. The air is a bit cold,¡± he said as soon as we settled down. I agreed with him when he invited me inside to rest. He also left immediately because he received a call from Carrick. I was not surprised when I noticed pajamas and undies on the bed. After I took a bath, I went to bed to sleep. *** I WOKE UP early the next day and found breakfast on the table. There was also a dress there that I think is for me. I wondered how he knew my taste in clothes. I happily went to the veranda and ate breakfast there to see the beauty of San Simon. When I finished eating, I went out for a while. I walked to the beach with a smile on my face and picked up some shells and beautiful stones as if I was a child. I even tasted the fresh air because I could only smell all the pollution and dust when I N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. returned to Man. While walking, I saw Terrising out of the resort. She seems to be leaving based on the shoulder bag she¡¯s carrying. She was followed by Lawrence, who was wearing white long sleeves, bleach jeans, and sunsses. I couldn¡¯t help but think of what the two of them were up to. At the very least, he said that nothing was going on between the two of them. But I can¡¯t help but think that they slept in the same roomst night. My heart moved, and gasped heavily. I continued walking and chose to sit on a rock. My feet are also drenched in saltwater, which gives them a tingling sensation. I fill my lungs with ssy air, slightly reflecting the sunny sun. I was in that position for a few minutes when I felt someone approach me from behind. ¡°Lawrence?!¡± I said in surprise. I thought he was with Terris? ¡°Let¡¯s go. I¡¯ll take you home,¡± he told me. He helped me stand up, but I lost my bnce because of the slippery rock. Fortunately, he quickly supported me and pulled my hips closer to him. ¡°Be careful. The rocks here are sharp,¡± he whispered. The warmth of his embrace and the scorching heat of his eyes made me tremble. ¡°Uh, thanks.¡± I slowly walked away from him. But he quickly followed me, and he even opened the door for me. ¡°Thanks,¡± I uttered again before choosing to ride in the shotgun seat. On our way, I could not help but admire the farms and streams we passed. San Simon¡¯s beauty has be more apparent to me. ¡°May I ask you something?¡± He barely nced at me then looked back at the road. ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°As for the anniversary of the Collins¡¯ hotel, I would like to take you for the event,¡± I timidly said to him. He did not answer at first. I think he is hesitant now because I refused his offer then. Sweet Kiss Sweet Kiss ¡°IF YOU CAN¡¯T, it¡¯s okay¡ª¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s okay,¡± he cut me off. ¡°Alright, then I will set a schedule for our meeting after we get back to Man,¡± I dered. ¡°No problem,¡± he still answered sparingly to me. Since it looks like he really has no intention of talking to me, I decided to just look out the window again. But to my surprise, the car suddenly turned to a restaurant. ¡°Let¡¯s eat first before going home,¡± he said, something I agreed with. ¡°They have delicious food here,¡± he said as we walked inside. ¡°Elliesse Restaurant¡±, that was the name of the restaurant he brought me. I can¡¯t help but appreciate it since the diner¡¯s overall structure is appealing. There¡¯s also arge tree in there, as well as a stairway to the rooftop, which I¡¯m sure I will love. The ce is beautiful, and the theme color was green. The table and chairs are made of top-notch wood. A violinist is ying in the corner, and the restaurant is connected by arge bridge. There¡¯s a fish pond beneath it with a variety of colors and sizes of coy fish. Overall, those who stopover will find this ce refreshing and rxing. ¡°How¡¯d you know this ce?¡± I asked inwardly. ¡°This ce reminds me of someone,¡± he said before looking up at the top of the tree and shook his head. I wanted to ask who he was referring to, but I knew I was not in the ce to do that. ¡°Good afternoon¡ªMr. Saavedra?¡± There was a shock on the waiter¡¯s face, especially when he saw me. ¡°Good afternoon,¡± he answered. He led us inside, where there were also arge number of individuals. Suddenly I had the idea of having a restaurant like this. Maybe I¡¯ll think about that after the anniversary of our hotel. I nced at it when his cellphone rang in his pocket. ¡°Excuse me, I need to answer this call,¡± he said goodbye to me, and I just nodded. I followed him with my eyes, and I noticed that many people also looked at him. Even with only his back, his elegance and posture are undeniable. His broad shoulder is very firm and straight in an attractive way. He has a chiseled face, a powerful mouth, a fine bridge nose, and eyes that look ruthlessly hot. *** I ADJUSTED ON my seat when I saw Lawrence back at our table. Fortunately, our order has arrived, so I decided to just turn my attention to the food that the waiter served. Roasted chicken with spicy barbecue sauce, together with tempura and sweet and sour cream. And I could not deny the hunger, so in the end, I ate a lot. I was just drinking pineapple juice when he spoke to me. ¡°You ate too much,¡± he teased before the crazy smile rose at the corner of his lips. And it made me blushed. Damn, you¡¯re embarrassing, Margaux! I was thankful that he also finished eating, so we decided to continue our trip. Again, the deafening silence filled our entire trip. ¡°Carrick called me,¡± he started. He looked at me quickly before turning his eyes back to the road. ¡°He told me that Sarah was rushed to the hospital this morning, and she was bleeding.¡± ¡°Why are you saying that?¡± I asked without looking at him. My temper is boiling up as I¡¯ve heard her name. ¡°I also consider Sarah as a sister. Please don¡¯t be offended by what I said,¡± he exined in a softer tone. ¡°So, how¡¯s the baby?¡± I asked. I am not that bad, so I was still worried for the child. ¡°The baby was okay. The doctor said she needs to take some rest. She was probably tired from yesterday¡¯s trip because of the wedding,¡± he replied. Silence spread between us. I honestly have nothing more to say. I feel like I¡¯m being pped by the fact that Lester and I will never be together again. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I shouldn¡¯t have mentioned that to you,¡± he apologized, then nce at me. ¡°It¡¯s okay; that is unavoidable,¡± I muttered to him before focusing on the window. Even if I wanted to escape from their shadow, it seemed like we were forced to be tied together. I was thankful he never mentioned it again. A few minutester, we reached Man. ¡°Thank you for bringing me home,¡± I said softly. I started to pull out the seatbelt from my body, but it got stuck. I felt like I was sweating profusely when I looked at him. ¡°Let me do it.¡± He moves his head closer to me. I felt like I was a candle in my seat as he removed the seatbelt. ¡°There you go,¡± he said. He leans in, so our eyes met, and there was very little space between our faces. My heart was pounding fast. ¡°T-thanks,¡± I stuttered, then bit my lip hard and lowered my head. As soon as I lift my head up, I knew my eyes would betray me. ¡°Will you stop doing that damn thing?¡± he said, then muttered a curse intently. ¡°Doing what?¡± I ask nervously and inhale sharply. ¡°Are you trying to seduce me using that sexy trick?¡± he asked softer now. I know he is trying to find my Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. eyes. I gasped heavily. ¡°You know what, I¡¯ll better be going. Thanks for the ride, Mr. Saavedra,¡± I said and trying to elude. But I was unable to hold the door handle because he still remained in front of me. ¡°You¡¯re not just easy to forget, Margaux,¡± he whispered again. His voice sent a shiver down my spine. I can¡¯t utter a word. The intensity of my heartbeat made me feel like I was deaf. I felt my blood dripping down my veins. I turned sideways, but his thumb caressed my cheeks, then I shyly looked back at him. ¡°You¡¯re beyond beautiful, Margaux,¡± he praised, then his hand reaches under my hair below my ear. ¡°Lawrence,¡± I whispered. All I wanted was to leave, but my body did not have enough strength to do that. I could already feel his breath on my face as we still stared at each other. The desire and hunger glowed in his dark brown eyes. Then, he closes the space between us as our lips pressed together in a long passionate kiss. My eyes widened in shock, but it did notst. I just found myself slowly turn a blind eye. His lips felt so gentle and warm. My hand wed at the nape of his neck as the kiss began to grow stronger. No one has ever kissed me like this, even Lester; we do not share this kind of kiss. I seemed to be under his spell, so I forgot to breathe. But it was as if I woke up to a beautiful dream when he let go of me. ¡°That was sweet,¡± he whispered. *** ¡°GOOD MORNING, MA¡¯AM!¡± Karen greeted me with a smile on Monday morning. ¡°Good morning, Karen!¡± I responded. I went straight to my office. It has also been a week since I got back to work from a vacation. ¡°Want some coffee, Marg?¡± She opened the door after knocking. ¡°Yes, please, Karen,¡± I said before facing the papers on the table and facing them vigorously. She came back with a cup of coffee and gentlyid in front of me. ¡°Your schedule for today is a meeting with Mr. Locsin at 10 am, with Mrs. Tmeda at 1 o¡¯clock, and with Mr. Saavedra at 4 pm,¡± she informed while leaning on the tablet she was holding. My heart starts pounding as I heard his name. ¡°Ma¡¯am?¡± shemented on my silence. I quickly shook my head. ¡°All right, thank you, Karen. I just call you when I need something.¡± Offer Offer TIME PASSED QUICKLY. I just finished my meeting with Mrs. Tmeda. Our discussion was very long, and now it is past four o¡¯clock in the afternoon. I waste for my meeting with Lawrence, and the traffic was still heavy. ¡°Shit!¡± I said in disgust. I took my cellphone out of the bag to get even more frustrated because it turned out to be a low battery. ¡°Why now?!¡± It was 5:30 pm when I got through the traffic. I was an hour and a halfte for the meeting. I immediately parked the car in front of the famous coffee shop where Lawrence and I will meet. My eyes immediately searched for Lawrence as I entered. ¡°For reservation, Ma¡¯am?¡± the waiter politely asked me. ¡°Yes, with Mr. Saavedra,¡± I replied as the nervousness was still in my body. ¡°Ah, this way, please.¡± He guided me up the stairs, where there were very few people. ¡°Thank you!¡± I said as he pointed me to our table. My chest tightened immediately when I saw him. N?velDrama.Org owns this. At this angle, I was consciously watching him. I couldn¡¯t take my eyes off his strong and attractive shoulders. His built didn¡¯t surprise me but overwhelmed me big time. I immediately stopped as he turned to me. He looked perfectly handsome in his gray suit. Oh, damn! I missed him! ¡°Good evening, Ms. Collins,¡± he greeted me with his baritone voice. His lips weren¡¯t even smiling even though he was already looking at me. ¡°You¡¯rete,¡± he added, thenzily nce at his wristwatch. I gasped heavily and forced a smile. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I was stuck in traffic,¡± I exined and bowed my head. I didn¡¯t hear his answer, so I thought of offering something. ¡°Please, let me buy you a drink¡ª¡± ¡°No, thanks. I already finished my coffee,¡± he interrupted what I was about to say. I bit my lower lip. I didn¡¯t even get to sit down because of the embarrassment. ¡°So shall we?¡± Then he stood up. ¡°Look, Ms. Collins, my time is important. I came here early, and then you came here quarter to six?!¡± he said in a deep-down voice. Obviously, he just holds back his anger. I swallowed hard. I could not immediately answer him. ¡°I have a meeting right after this, and since I can¡¯t contact your cellphone, I decided to cancel my meeting with Mr. Del¡¯fierro, but he insisted. So I have to get there by seven o¡¯clock,¡± he kept on talking in a cold voice. I want to speak, but I do not know what to say. I have never felt like this in my meetings. Because almost all of them I get along with, but him? I feel like melting ice cream. ¡°Can we reschedule the meeting?¡± I asked timidly. ¡°If you will apany me to my meeting, I may agree.¡± His lips hitched a little as if something was ying in his mind. ¡°H-how about our meeting? Aren¡¯t we going to discuss it now?¡± I insist. ¡°Just reschedule our meeting for next week. I need to attend this important meeting with Mr. Del¡¯fierro.,¡± he seriously answered. I sighed deeply. Do I really need to be included in that meeting? Is this my punishment because I was Even though I did not agree, I felt him grab my hand and pull me out of the coffee shop. I could do nothing but follow his wishes. It seems that someone was telling my mind that this was wrong, but I don¡¯t know why I did it anyway. Since I was carrying a car, we just conveyed to a famous hotel that he mentioned to me. We got out of the car at the same time after we parked it in the parking space. We also went straight inside and took the elevator. I was nervous as we boarded the elevator. I feel like something is wrong with what I am doing, especially the tight grip on my hand that he never let go. I keep my eyes on the floor. He has not opened a conversation since we entered here at the hotel. He seemed distant and nervy. Until we reached a private room where he knocked. ¡°Please,e in!¡± I heard the answer of whoever was inside. ¡°Hijo! Nice to see you again!¡± The old man greeted us warmly. He looks older than Lawrence, but his face was still bright. ¡°Good evening, Uncle!¡± he said to the old man. ¡°Elliesse will be a littlete, but she¡¯s on her way,¡± he told Lawrence before tapping him on the shoulder. I felt Lawrence¡¯s grip on my hand tighten when he heard the name mentioned by the old man. The old man nced at me, so Lawrence quickly introduced me to him. ¡°Ah, Uncle, this is Margaux Collins,¡± he introduced me to him. ¡°Good evening!¡± I respectfully greet him without forgetting to extend my hand. *** SUNDAY MORNING, I was quietly having coffee on the veranda. I let the sun kiss my face, sip some coffee, and taste the air that touches my skin. I have no ns to go out today because I n to bake a cake and enjoy my day off. But I frowned when I heard a series of knocks from my unit door. I went to the door, and opened it and that¡¯s how my jaw dropped when I recognized who it was. ¡°Good morning!¡± he greeted with a big smile on his face. ¡°Lawrence? W-what are you doing here?!¡± ¡°Just visiting,¡± he said before pressing a hand to the door. I quickly bent down and closed my eyes firmly before smiling at him. ¡°Can Ie in?¡± he asked, still not removing the smile from his lips. ¡°S-sure,e in. I¡¯ll just get dressed for a while,¡± I said softly before turning my back on him. I went straight to the walk-in closet and quickly rummaged through the clothes. ¡°Rx, Margaux,¡± I deeply whispered to myself. I took a deep breath before choosing a dress. I also tried on a few other outfits before deciding on the flowery pink above-the-knee dress. I put my hair up in a bun and put some lipstick on my lips. I decided to exit the room once I was satisfied. I frowned when I couldn¡¯t see him in the living room. I went to the kitchen where I heard a crackle. My feet stopped when I saw him facing the stove. He nced at me for a moment and smiled a little. ¡°I hope you don¡¯t mind if I mess up your kitchen.¡± He leans both his hands on the table and wait for my reply. ¡°No¡ªI mean, no problem!¡± His eyes rested on me before facing the stove again. I could smell the fried chicken he was cooking because I marinaded itst night. I didn¡¯t do anything, so I decided to pull a chair in front of him and wait for him to finish what he was doing. I was speechless as I watched him serve breakfast. He cooked fried rice, fried chicken, fried eggs, and ham. ¡°Another cup of coffee?¡± he asked before looking down at my empty coffee cup. ¡°No. I¡¯ll do it for you.¡± I quickly stood up to look at the coffee maker in the corner of the oak table. Deal Deal ¡°HERE¡¯S YOUR COFFEE!¡± I put the coffee in front of him and then decided to sit down. ¡°Thanks.¡± He met my gaze, so I slowly bowed to the food. I swallowed a few times before speaking again. ¡°Any ns for today?¡± he asked as he sipped a coffee. ¡°Hmm, I don¡¯t have any ns today.¡± ¡°May I ask you out on a date?¡± he instantly said while looking directly at me. I pursed my lips. I did not immediately respond to his offer. ¡°How about shopping? Or movies?¡± he suggested andid his back against the chair. Maybe I¡¯ll do the baking of the caketer. ¡°I¡¯m not busy, so let¡¯s go,¡± I agree. After we ate, we went to the mall. He left me for a while to buy a ticket while I bought popcorn and drinks. From here, I can see how some women look at him. I have to admit that he¡¯s attractive and definitely a head-turner. I can¡¯t help but wonder if the women¡¯s necks were not clenched as they look at him. He came back with a ticket. Then he snatched therge popcorn and drinks from my hands, and we walked into the cinema. I¡¯m still notfortable with him, especially now that I¡¯m just sitting next to him. I almost smell his good perfume, and the heat thates from him made me ufortable. I couldn¡¯t help but nce at him. I was startled when he suddenly turned to me. ¡°What is it?¡± he barely whispers to me. I couldn¡¯t respond since the redness on my cheeks appeared to be bing worse. Thankfully, the darkness was dispersed around me. ¡°Do you agree?¡± he asked again without distracting the viewer. I sighed quickly at his question. Until now, I still can¡¯t answer his offer to me sincest night. I closed my eyes to go back to what happenedst night. ¡°Rence?!¡± It was obvious in the woman¡¯s voice that she knew Lawrence. ¡°Elliesse.¡± There is a frown in Lawrence¡¯s throat when he speaks. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, daughter. I didn¡¯t tell you right away that Lawrence is here,¡± the old man apologetically said to her. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Dad.¡± She gently embraced her dad. I could feel the tightness of Lawrence¡¯s grip on my hand as Elliesse turned her gaze at us. ¡°Ah. This is Margaux, my girlfriend,¡± Lawrence introduced me. I quickly look at Lawrence with an astonished face. ¡°What are you doing?¡± I whispered very softly. ¡°Hi! What¡¯s your name again?¡± she asked me with a wide smile before offering her hand for a handshake. ¡°Margaux, Margaux Collins,¡± I said and gave her a handshake. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. ¡°Nice to meet you, Margaux. I¡¯m Elliesse Del¡¯fierro, Rence¡¯s ex-girlfriend,¡± she introduces without hesitation. I nced at Lawrence, who was now pale. After his meeting with old Del¡¯fierro, Lawrence and I immediately left the building. ¡°Wait, Margaux.¡± He stopped my arm. I violently turned to him. ¡°Why did you do that?!¡± ¡°I don¡¯t have a choice. I have to do that,¡± he said in a low voice. I was silent for a moment. Up to this moment, I still do not understand why he did that. ¡°And I want you to do me a favor,¡± he said in a serious tone. He stared into his eyes confidently. My heart almost stopped as I watch how his jaw hardened and his eyes were so dark. ¡°Can you pretend to be my girlfriend?¡± he asked in a soft voice. My lips parted in what he said. What exactly is he thinking? We don¡¯t have a deep connection yet for me to ept his offer. ¡°Just only for a month. Just pretend to be my girl.¡± He nced at me as if wondering what my reaction would be. He gripped my hand tight, so I quickly took a deep breath and averted my eyes. ¡°Why me? There are many other girls out there,¡± I refused. I could hear his heavy breath, then he let go of my hand. ¡°The truth is, I don¡¯t know,¡± he frustratedly said, then he shook his head. I shut my eyes with pain. I do not know where I pulled the pain that rose in my heart. ¡°I don¡¯t want you to get involved in this, but Elliesse was so obsessed with me. She can¡¯t ept our breakup. That¡¯s why I need your help.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll think about it,¡± I answered before finally getting into my car to leave. ¡°Collins?¡± He thought before he spoke again, ¡°The owner of Collin¡¯s hotel?¡± When this question is confirmed, Lawrence is now in the spotlight. Yes, Uncle,¡± he confidently said. ¡°Nice to meet you, hija.¡± He held out his hand to me, which I reluctantly reached out. ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you too, Sir!¡± I smiled widely at him. At the same time, we turned around when the door opened. Her hair was golden brown with pinkish- white glow skin. The ant seemed to be ashamed of its red lips and squinty eyes. *** I ROLLED ON my bed a few times and was still drowsy after Lawrence took me home from our date earlier. I kept wondering if I would ept his offer to be his girlfriend for a month. I¡¯m not desperate enough to pose as his girlfriend, and what will I get if I ept his offer? I was thinking like that when my cellphone rang on the side table. I immediately picked it up, and my heart pounded as I read the caller¡¯s name. I took a few deep breaths before answering the call. ¡°How are you?¡± But I heard no answer from the other line. ¡°Lawrence?!¡± ¡°I¡¯ll hang up the phone if you don¡¯t speak,¡± I threateningly told him. ¡°Sweetie,¡± he whispered in a husky voice. I was taken aback. I am now the one who is unable to speak. ¡°Did I disturb you?¡± he asked. ¡°No,¡± I answered weakly. ¡°Why are you still awake?¡± His voice returned to being baritone. ¡°Because I¡¯m not sleepy yet. Why did you call?¡± I scratched my head because of what I asked. I still asked it even though I knew the reason. On the phone, though, I could hear him take a deep breath. My heart starts to race. I can¡¯t deny that my heart is racing with anxiety. ¡°Rence?¡± ¡°Alright, Elliesse will have a photoshoot at Saavedra¡¯s Resort by next week and¡ª¡± he paused for a while, ¡°I need you toe with me.¡± My lips quivered, not knowing what to answer. ¡°Margaux,¡± he whispered my name in a sweet soft voice. I swallowed hard. I could not pick up the right word for it. Honestly, I did not expect it. I don¡¯t know why but I want to nod. ¡°I know it¡¯s hard for you, but this is the first andst thing I want you to do.¡± I closed my eyes and filled the lungs with heavy air before I could speak. ¡°Yes! I will apany you,¡± I said shyly. He cleared his throat first before he spoke. ¡°A-are you sure?¡± His voice grew hotter. ¡°Yes, I agree, but promise me something,¡± I paused as I waited for him to answer. ¡°Sure,¡± he replied. I took a deep breath before speaking again. ¡°Please, no string attach.¡± A few minutes after I hung up the phone, I still couldn¡¯t sleep. I¡¯m also not sure why I agreed to his wishes. I just know that I am happy with my decision. Pretending Pretending Pretending THE THINGS I will take with me when Lawrence and I leave are ready. While waiting for him to arrive, I nced in the mirror many times since the anxiety in my chest didn¡¯t go away. I almost jumped in shock when I heard a series of doorbell rings. ¡°Just a moment!¡± I yelled and nced again at the mirror to check my reddish-orange dress and tiptoe N?velDrama.Org owns this. shoes again. ¡°Hi!¡± I greeted him warmly when I opened the door. I seemed to be burned by the way he looked at me. Nor did I escape his gentle look at my whole being. ¡°Ah,e in first. I¡¯ll just get my things,¡± I said before turning around. As he walked inside, I nced at him. My heart flushed as I noticed the strength behind his stunning features. He was wearing a simple white T-shirt and faded denim jeans and his Nike shoes that matched his brown leather jacket. My eyes were wondering when his eyes met mine. ¡°Let me help you with that,¡± he said, then took my bag from me. *** WE WERE JUST quiet during the trip. And I felt the awkward silence between us. But I don¡¯t think I need to open a conversation now. ¡°How was your sleepst night?¡± he asked, then started turning on the machine. ¡°Uh, it was fine.¡± I smiled. ¡°Good,¡± he added. He did not speak anymore because his car had already stopped. I adapted myself to the view as the structure gradually faded,ter reced by green trees and farms. After about two hours, we finally reached the Saavedra Resort. As always, I was impressed by the beautiful scenery that greeted us. He guided me inside the hotel, nor did we forget to greet some employees when Lawrence saw us. ¡°Let me take you to your suite first, then I¡¯ll pick you upter for our lunch.¡± I just nodded. It was just the two of us inside the elevator, but I could not understand why he was so close to me. My heart was pounding so fast. I feel like my knees will fall if we spend more time in the elevator. ¡°Are you alright?¡± he asked softly in my left ear. I stiffened and lowered my gaze to the floor. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± I close my eyes as he gently caresses the trunk of my hair. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I know you shouldn¡¯t be here, but I promise to take good care of you, whatever happens,¡± he whispered again. I was so grateful when the door finally opened. I finally had a chance to walk away from him. Damn it, Margaux! It was just a whisper. It was just a touch! Calm down! Fortunately, we quickly reached the room he had reserved for me. I saw perfection in every corner of this room. The construction is detailed, and it seems like a lot of time was taken to beautify the ce. When my eyes were satisfied with what I saw, I turned to Lawrence who was carrying my bag. ¡°Thanks. I¡¯m fine here.¡± I immediately pulled my bag. ¡°Are you sure?¡± I nodded. ¡°Thank you again,¡± I said, then smiled a little. ¡°I¡¯ll just check the staff downstairs. I¡¯ll be back in a minute,¡± he said and bid goodbye to me. When he left, I had a shower and changed into a red dress with the same sandals. My hair is pulled back into a bun, and I put a little color on my lips. Momentster, Lawrence knocked again to pick me up. ¡°Hi, gorgeous!¡± A soft smile appeared on his lips as hey on his hand at the door frame. My face turned to the color of a bad sunburn. I turned my head to the side to avert my gaze. I used to be praised by others but not Lawrence. I also felt like I was in the cloud as we walked down the grand staircase. Employees and other guests were looking at us. ¡°Are you nervous?¡± he whispered before holding my hand firmly. I looked at him. ¡°No, I¡¯m not,¡± I said boldly. ¡°Good, easier for me,¡± he muttered. My forehead furrowed. What does it mean? That was the question left in my mind until we got to the lobby and went straight to one of the diners there. ¡°Good afternoon, Mr. President!¡± the waiter politely greeted him before handing us the warm tenderloin steak. ¡°Please, give her juice instead.¡± Lawrence stopped it when he tried to put a ss of champagne in the flute ss in front of me. ¡°Immediately, Sir,¡± the waiter said before turning his back on us. He also returned immediately with lemon juice on hand. ¡°Thank you!¡± I said, then give him a smile. He only slightly bowed to me before retreating and returning to work. ¡°You treated your employees with that gesture?¡± I looked up at him. ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked him, frowning. ¡°My employee. I think he likes you,¡± he said before looking at the waiter. I followed his gaze as he pointed before I shook. ¡°That¡¯s not new to me,¡± I said before shrugging. He shook his head with a grimace. I could also see the weeping of his mouth because of what I said. ¡°I¡¯m scared. They took it as an advantage, to get closer to you, and I won¡¯t let that happen,¡± he said with ace of seriousness. I want tough at his reaction. ¡°Is this part of our ns because you act like my boyfriend? I¡¯m sorry, I don¡¯t want to have a jealous boyfriend,¡± I said, then I smirked. ¡°I will talk to the manager regarding this matter,¡± he dered in a serious voice. ¡°About what?¡± I asked. But he still couldn¡¯t answer as he focused his gaze on my back. Out of curiosity, I looked behind me where I saw Elliesse enter the hotel¡¯s main door. She was dressed unusually. Her hair had a gleaming gold color with a reddish tone and a circr form. Almost everyone seemed to be distracted by her forting. I don¡¯t know how I dared to stand up even though my knees were shaking. I also didn¡¯t know how I could step closer to them. ¡°Hi, Rence!¡± She also warmly greeted those who greeted her. She did not forget to give Lawrence a kiss on the cheek. I quickly averted my gaze from that scene. I should not be affected because I know we were just pretending, but why was it hard for me to act like one? ¡°Hi, Margaux!¡± She greeted, then waved her hands and beamed at me. I smiled back at my most innocent face. ¡°How was your trip?¡± Lawrence cut. They remained standing and looking at each other. ¡°It was good. I miss the town of San Simon,¡± she said and showed off her sweet smile. She seemed to mean something else to what she said, so Lawrence¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°Ah, please join us,¡± Lawrence offered a seat. I immediately nced at my food. I suddenly lost my appetite. ¡°Of course!¡± She quickly sat down in the chair next to Lawrence. The waiter approached her immediately, and her order arrived quickly. They were almost the only two who¡¯s talking as if I was not there throughout our mealtime. I feel like I¡¯m just air around but unnoticed. Jealous Jealous I WAS SO annoyed that I stabbed the steak in front of me so hard that I caught their attention and stopped talking. ¡°Sorry! The steak is a bit tough,¡± I exin. Lawrence frowned at my reaction. He struggles to read what¡¯s in my eyes. In the end, he is the first one to give up and look down before averted his gaze. He quickly motioned for the waiter to approach us immediately. ¡°Please change Ms. Collins¡¯ food. Make sure the steak you serve is tender,¡± he ordered and looked at me seriously. ¡°Immediately, Mr. President!¡± the waiter politely said before taking my te from me. ¡°No, I¡¯m good.¡± I gently wiped my lips before standing up. ¡°I¡¯ll go take some rest. It looks like you have more to talk about,¡± I emphasized something to them. ¡°Oh, right,¡± said Elliesse, then shrugged. Lawrence looked me in the eyes, so I decided to just look away. ¡°Just enjoy your moment together. I¡¯ll be upstairs,¡± I added before I walked away. When I got to the room, I decided to change my clothes first to feel fresh. I¡¯m now wearing only walking shorts and a in white T-shirt with flip-flops. I went out on the balcony for a moment to get some air. I have a good view of the whole Saavedra Resort. I¡¯m struck by arge number of visitors on the beach today. Some people like surfing because the waves are so strong even at midday, while others just enjoy sunbathing. I let out a deep sigh. ¡°How are they downstairs?¡± I said to myself. I shook my head one after another. ¡°No, you should not be affected by this. After all, Elliesse only came here for work, so I should not worry.¡± To stop myself from thinking, I decided to go to sleep. *** IT WAS ALREADY dark when I opened my eyes. I quickly opened thempshade on the nightstand and picked up my cellphone to nce at the time. It was six o¡¯clock in the evening. I think I slept longer. But to my great disappointment, I did not receive any text or call from Lawrence. I can¡¯t help but get annoyed. Isn¡¯t he the one who asked for a favor, but he still has the desire to leave me in the air? It was difficult for me to leave the hotel to find him, but I was suddenly taken aback. Tss. Why do I have to look for him? That¡¯s actually good because I don¡¯t have to pretend to be his girlfriend. In the end, I just did room service for dinner and bored myself waiting. *** IT WAS LATE night when I heard a series of knocks from the door of my suite. Suddenly, I turned around and ran to open it. But I restrained myself for a moment because I did not want him to think I was excited to open the door to see him. So I waited for him to knock once more, but he never knocked again. I quickly turned the door open and noticed he was walking away. I quickly swallowed my pride and umted air in my chest before calling him out. ¡°Lawrence!¡± He immediately turned around and step back toe to me. ¡°Did I wake you up?¡± he whispered under his breath. He put one hand on the door and bowed slightly to me. ¡°Hmm, no. I¡¯m just preparing to sleep,¡± I lied. His gaze settled on me before speaking again. ¡°How was your stay here?¡± he softly asked, leaning against the door, indicating that he had no intention of leaving. ¡°Good, refreshing!¡± I delightfully said. I tried to hide the embarrassment on my face. ¡°I toured Elliesse for a while for her photoshoot tomorrow. We went to the other ind,¡± he exined, following the reaction of my eyes. For a while? It reached them midnight! Instead of voicing out, I just smiled at him. ¡°It¡¯s okay. Your reason is understandable. You have nothing to exin in the first ce,¡± I assured him. He exhaled sharply before he adjusts his stand in front of me. ¡°Have you eaten your dinner?¡± he asked, then turned around and took a look at my face. ¡°Yeah, I just asked a room service. Why are you here? Do you need anything?¡± I ask. I didn¡¯t want to pity myself for eating alone while he was with the others. His lips just twitched and then slowly stepped closer to me. I quickly straightened up and gave it a look of astonishment. I was a little nervous. I could not have imagined that this would affect me for a few hours without seeing him. ¡°I miss you,¡± he said in a husky voice, gently caressing my cheek. I swallowed hard. My heart was pounding. I would have done it if I could simply say that I miss him as well, but it would be best not to. I tried to act normal and ignored what he said. ¡°It¡¯ste. You¡¯re still early tomorrow, aren¡¯t you?¡± I said and stepped to the side to prate my own control. He gently lowered his hand and stretched again to find my stares. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for my excessive action,¡± he whispered slower and softer that made my heart tremble. He stepped closer to me, and I could almost smell his fragrant scent. I can¡¯t do anything. I need to get away from this trap now. ¡°Elliesse! How is she?¡± I confusingly said. Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. I heard a sigh of relief before I slowly move away. ¡°She¡¯s okay.¡± ¡°Uh, it¡¯s good, and you¡¯re getting used to it again,¡± I said, voice shaking. I do not know how to hide the pain that draws into my heart. ¡°You really want that to happen, don¡¯t you?¡± Disapproval was obvious in his eyes. I tried to clear my throat. The more I looked at him, the more I want to avoid him. ¡°Yeah. Isn¡¯t this the n that¡¯s why we¡¯re here?¡± I said, but his eyebrows parted even more as he looked at me. Again, I heard him gasping for breath before he speaks. ¡°Rest. See you again tomorrow,¡± he said softly before he left my room. Although he looked different, I¡¯m sure he knows I¡¯m d to see him and Elliesse reconciling, which is good to speed up my work here. *** THE YELLOW SHINING sun began to shine from the ground. It is so bright and enticing, as if inviting me to stare and appreciate the beauty itself. I stretched out my hand to heaven. ¡°Hmm, good morning, paradise!¡± I said quietly. I looked down at the jet-ck swimsuit I was wearing. My shape is perfectly proportioned to my slim physique and beautiful skin. I woke up early to bathe in the sea. The weather is nice, so it¡¯s good to soak in water. This is really one of the reasons why I went here to San Simon. Because of my busy schedule in Man, I haven¡¯t been able to swim in the water in a long time. Now I have the opportunity to make the most of my vacation. I ran towards the peaceful water, savoring the beautiful white sand between my toes. I enjoyed swimming in crystalline clear water. But I didn¡¯t go very far since my eyes were constantly drawn to the magnificent corals and fish at the mouth of the sea. First Kiss First Kiss FEELING TIRED, I decided to go upstairs. I went straight to the umbre tree where my ordered pasta and coconut juice arrived. After drying up, I leaned back in the lounge and put on my sunsses. But even before I sat down, I noticed a couple running towards the sea. I took off my sunsses and frowned at them. My lovely mouth opened with astonishment. The woman with smooth and silky hair quickly ran into the water. I frowned even more when I saw the man next to her. He¡¯s wearing a pair of blue boxer shorts and a white shirt. It was as if I were watching a movie when they met in the water. It was painful to watch themughing at each other. My heart feels like it¡¯s been stabbed. I shook my head. I should not feel this pain. I should be happy for them because it looks like they are together again. I bit my lower lip. But why does my system seem unwilling to ept that? Suddenly, my vision became blurred. My tears fell on my cheeks unexpectedly. I violently wiped away my tears and closed my eyes tightly. I tried to remove the pain in my heart before opening my eyes. But I didn¡¯t think that anything could be more painful than what I¡¯d seen previously. They hugged each other as if no one else was around them. I want to avert my eyes, but my eyes didn¡¯t follow. I notice the dryness of my throat as I watched Lawrence¡¯s lips open and speak. They talked for a while until the next scene brought me great sadness. They kissed¡ªa really sweet, enthusiastic kiss. And as their kiss deepened, the cut in my heart seemed to deepen as well. I didn¡¯t know how I stood despite the trembling of my knees; then, I approached them as if they were just talking. Lawrence turned his gaze to me, causing me to stop in my path. He then quickly came out of the water and met me. ¡°Margaux, what are you doing here? How long have you been here?¡± he asked in a deep tone. ¡°No! Actually, I just arrived,¡± I answered quickly. I also quickly avoided looking at him. Well, I was wearing sunsses, so he didn¡¯t notice the redness in my eyes. His gaze followed the wetness of my hair and the wetness of my bikini swimsuit. As he hovered over my face, I couldn¡¯t help but notice the tightness in his jaw. ¡°You seem to be enjoying it, right?¡± I said in my trembling voice and bit my lip. ¡°Did you see anything¡ª¡± he paused with a grimace. ¡°W-what do you mean?¡± Iughed. As I did that, his eyes darkened. I would not have stopped pretending if I hadn¡¯t seen Elliesse approaching us. ¡°She told me to go out for a swimming before the photoshoot.¡± He stares down at me for a second. I did not choose to speak anymore because Elliesse immediately approached us. ¡°Good morning! You¡¯re also swimming,¡± she said before putting her hand around Lawrence¡¯s arm. I stared at what she did. I swallowed before my eyes flew to Lawrence, who now had a darker face on me. I¡¯m the girlfriend here, Even if it¡¯s only for show. I should be the one with him and not her. Yet, I still managed to smile to hide the heartache. ¡°Ah. The truth is I just got up when I saw you.¡± I even nced at Lawrence, who now gave me a serious look. ¡°Hm, please join us! The weather is good today.¡± Elliesse looked at me again before running into the water again. I just followed her with my eyes. ¡°What did you see?¡± There was depth in Lawrence¡¯s voice as he spoke, which drew my attention to him. I cleared my throat first and removed my sunsses. ¡°Do I have to see anything?¡± ¡°So where did those tearse from?¡± he asked softly. Then he gently stroked my cheek. ¡°I went for a short dive. I wasn¡¯t wearing goggles so I . . .¡± Then I stopped, unable to exin why my eyes were red. He let out a violent breath. ¡°Okay, you will wear your goggles next time,¡± he said. ¡°Rence!¡± I heard Elliesse called him from afar, but he did not look back. ¡°Go back to your room, change your clothes and I¡¯ll follow.¡± He did not escape my gaze from what I was wearing before I turned my back, but he quickly turned his head to face me again. ¡°And one more thing, I don¡¯t like people looking at you because of what you¡¯re wearing,¡± he said and shot me a disgusted look before finally turning his back on me. I found myself gazing at Lawrence as he walked away. He met Elliesse, who drew his hand into the deepest area of the water. I don¡¯t want to watch that scene again. I turned around and marched towards my suite with a pain my heart. I quickly went into the bathroom and locked myself there. I could not stop the tears from forming in my eyes. No, not again, Margaux. Not now. N?velDrama.Org owns this. I shook my head. Why do I have to feel this kind of pain again? Tears flowed continuously from my eyes, apanied by droplets of water from the shower. Why am I hurting like this? No, this is just a game, Margaux. You¡¯re just pretending, aren¡¯t you? You have no real rtionship, so do not assume, I shouted loudly in my brain. I was startled when I heard a series of knocks on the door of my suite. ¡°Margaux?¡± I heard Lawrence knocking. I quickly wiped away my tears and hugged myself tightly. ¡°Margaux, can we talk?¡± He speaks calmly between recognitions. My chest tightened but I stopped myself from opening it. ¡°Margaux! Please can we talk?¡± he added, his voice starting to rise. I just stayed sitting on the flooring right inside the bathroom. I don¡¯t want to talk to him. I came here because I know he has a ce in my heart but I did not expect that I would be hurt too much. I took a deep breath, I wanted to go. That¡¯s right, maybe I should just go home. Eventually, the noises from the outside disappeared. Who am I for him to exin? We are just pretending. But I almost fell when the door suddenly opened. I quickly looked up at him which was still wet with salt water. For a few seconds I did not gain much weight. I also do not know where I will pick myself up when he arrives at my order. His eyes were dark and he was staring at me. He will also almost catch his breath while tightening his jaw. ¡°How did you get in?¡± My voice trembled as I spoke while the water from the shower was still running. ¡°How did you get in?!¡± I repeated. I also violently wiped my tears even though the water of the shower continued to flow down on my cheeks. ¡°This is my resort, and I have a key to every room,¡± he said before gently lifting the card key he was holding. I do not know where I got the strength to stand and face him. Fire Kiss Fire Kiss ¡°YEAH, I KNOW, but you have no right to enter my room and for crashing that damn door,¡± I uttered in a cold voice. But instead of answering, he stepped closer to me. I quickly backed away until he cornered me in the bathroom. I could feel the cold tiles on my back. I sighed as he locked me with his two hands that were now also holding the cold tiles. The water from the shower that drenched us both is still pouring. ¡°Show some respect, Mr. Saavedra,¡± I said in a shaky voice. I want to return my heartbeat to normal and prevent my body heat from rising, but why it¡¯s so fucking hard? He tilted his head a bit. ¡°You¡¯re jealous, aren¡¯t you?¡± he asked with a baritone voice. Yes, I am jealous. I was jealous because of that kissed. For ignoring me when she was around and for making me feel unwanted! I wish I could have uttered those words, but no words came out of my lips. I just kept getting colder and colder. ¡°Damn, look at me, Margaux!¡± he said with gritted teeth. ¡°No. What right do I have if to be jealous? Maybe you forgot, we¡¯re in a fake rtionship only, right?¡± I replied and looked at him in the eyes. He was stunned for a moment, but his stiff expression also returned afterward. ¡°And why are you acting like a jealous one?¡± he said in slight disbelief. But, I concede, he doesn¡¯t need to know that anymore. My face was expressionless, and I moved my gaze down to my feet. ¡°Just, tell me, Margaux!¡± he queried. He even bent down to chase my stares. ¡°Just tell me,¡± he now utters softly. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m jealous! What do you want me to feel?!¡± Those words spontaneously came out of my lips as water flowed down my cheeks. Even if I try to deny it, it seems like it¡¯s toote. ¡°Fuck!¡± he muttered a curse before suddenly moving away from me. How many times have I seen him shook his head after hearing what I said? I pressed my back against the wall even more to gain strength and let the abundant water flow into my body. I couldn¡¯t breathe as he turned his head again. Right then, I saw that his eyes had darkened. He moved his head closer to me, and the next thing I knew, his lips were brushing mine, not innocently, but heated and sexily. I want to pull away before I lose myself, but my knees seem to be betraying me and slowly losing their strength. I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him closer to me. It was there that I gained strength. He ran his fingers down to my back that sent a shiver down my spine. The heat we used to share was suddenly enveloped in the cold when he suddenly released me. He leans in, so his forehead rested on mine, his thumb caressing both of my cheeks. ¡°I want you,¡± he whispered and inhaled sharply. I could not move when his hot lips touched me again. This time his kisses were long, warm, gentle, sweet, and fiery. He lifted me and led me to a ce. And then, all of a sudden, he gently ced my back on the nice, warm bed, even though our bodies are soaked. His fire kisses persisted. His lips gave out a warm glow that eventually spread throughout the rest of me. I can¡¯t help but return his kiss. I was overwhelmed by the foreign feeling caused by his hot kiss. I¡¯ve never experienced this kind of pleasure before, even with Lester. We often shared hugs and kisses, but we were just up there. But it was Lawrence who knocked me off my feet. I feel like a child who needs love and care. After a little pause, he proceeded to dry up my throat. He took off his clothes one by one as if someone was chasing him. My body went stiff with arousal the minute I saw his wide chest and shoulder down to his biceps, as well as his beautiful six-pack abs. I¡¯m not sure where I can focus my concentration in order to ignore that thing. I also can¡¯t believe this happened so fast. N?velDrama.Org owns this. ¡°Feel me, Margaux,¡± he ordered me before pulling my hand to his chest. When he closed the gap between us again and kissed me, I didn¡¯t have anything more to say. His hand traced the outline of my body. It¡¯s bing warmer and deeper. It¡¯s as though I¡¯m bing drunk. I can¡¯t seem to stop myself from biting my bottom lip. He also pulled my swimsuit off for a bit, and I¡¯m not sure where he tossed it. All I knew was that the feeling that enveloped both of us had devastated me. Our lips merged again. It was toote to protest. It was toote to fight. I was under his spell, and everything he did seemed to please me. He easily ripped off my underpants and gently touched my body. I was caressed with lust and desire. His aggressive caress of my exposed flesh appeared to start a fire, which I couldn¡¯t put out since I wanted our bodies to burn. He gently stroked my skin, and I couldn¡¯t help but shut my eyes as I tasted the warmth of his caress on my naked body. I did not realize that we were both naked. I¡¯ll bete regardless of whether I change my mind. I never thought that I¡¯d give up everything to him. To the man I don¡¯t know very well, to the man I know will only hurt me in the end. He mmed into me slowly. His caress was aggressive as well, as though it was in time with the small growl from me until his warm hand touched my bare chest. When he performed the circr motion on my breast, I gasped loudly. He gripped it and gently yed. I was moaning in ecstasy when he squeezed my ni*ples, then sucking it like a hungry kid. ¡°Oh, Rence!¡± I was deliriously chanting his name. I wrapped my hands around his neck and brushed his hair. My body was arching with ecstasy as his fingers lingered down. My legs are quivering with anticipation as Lawrence inserted his finger in my entrance. I was so close to his shoulder. What an emphasis my nail was there. ¡°Ohh!¡± I moan. I can¡¯t help but be bothered by the odd feeling he gives me. I squeezed both my thighs as he moved his two fingers to my center, and I appeared to want to get up. ¡°Ohh, fuck!¡± I shouted out, knowing that the longer my nail remained behind him, the more of a scar it was creating. ¡°Rx, sweetie,¡± he whispered before kissing me again. He also gently opened and closed my two thighs, where his finger went in and out. With each insertion of his two fingers into my entrance, my body writhed in ecstasy, like if I were crazy. My body was shaking like a leaf, and every part of my body tensed. My breathing became heavy as his lips went down my tummy until I felt his finger being pulled away from me. Peace Of Mind Peace Of Mind I BIT DOWN my lip. I wanted to protest for what he did, but my throat seemed to be dry. ¡°Not so fast, baby,¡± he told me before spitting on the surface of the bed. He held it in his hands as if it were hard steel, softly stroking it down and up. Because of the excitement that surrounded me, I wanted to withdraw. For a brief moment, he nced down at me, and the swirls of emotion I saw there made me gasp. Slowly, his lips moved closer to mine. He is now softly kissing me; it was so slow and gentle. While one of his fingersbs my hair, the other caresses my face. I moan in pleasure. I was breathless with delight as he showered me with more gentle and soft kisses. As our kiss deepened, I ran my tongue across his teeth and swallowed his moan. I could feel his readiness between my thighs. For a little moment, we parted even more to open my thighs softly. I took a deep breath. I felt like I was on the brink of death when I thought about it. I almost lost my sanity when I felt its explicit entry. I close my eyes as I bite my lips. My legs are shaking, my fingers digging hard to his. I feel so much pain when he tries to push his hard thing on mine. ¡°Ohh! Fuck!¡± he stopped for a moment and muttered a curse while shaking his head with astonishment. I slightly opened my eyes to met his dark gaze. With the severity of the agony that engulfed me, I attempted to lick my lips. He¡¯s halfway inside while I¡¯m at the extreme. ¡°Damn, why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡± he said, full of emotion. I shut my eyes and smiled sweetly. I¡¯m a virgin, I know, but there is no turning back now! ¡°Please go on, Rence . . .¡± I begged. Instead of answering, he kissed me again. My arms wrap around his neck. I take a deep breath in and kiss him tenderly, his arm around my waist, pulling me in like his lips are eager for mine. He went gently over me again, as if he didn¡¯t want to harm me, but I couldn¡¯t bear not to scream because of the pain. I could feel the trembling of my legs and muscles as he slowly entered. ¡°Ohh, Margaux!¡± he pants and exhales sharply. He tightened his hold on my hip, but he wasn¡¯t satisfied, so he moved down both of my thighs, stretching my two legs wider. I moan, biting my lower lip because it hurts so much! I feel like I¡¯ve been shattered so many times. I want to close my thighs to stop it, but I do not have the strength to do that. ¡°Please, don¡¯t make this hard for me,¡± he moaned. His grip tightened on both of my thighs. Grains of perspiration have reced our previously moist bodies. He eventually got inside after a few more stabs, and not a single tear dripped down the side of my face. ¡°Ohh! You¡¯re so tight,¡± he said while looking up and closing his eyes. I wanted to smile because of his Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. reaction, but I could not do it because of the pain brought by his aggressive entry. I squeezed his hand so tight as its readiness sank into me. I writhed as he pounded hard and fast on my body. He took both of my hands in his and ced them over my head. ¡°Oh . . .¡± I moaned again as Lawrence continued to dig in and pulled out his length. I shamelessly hugged my legs around him and asked him to hurry up. ¡°Faster!¡± I shouted. He obeyed my order and moved faster, burying his deep and hard manhood inside me. He kissed my neck before he moved in and out. ¡°Ahh, Margaux!¡± he barely whispered as he moves in and out deeper with so much speed. I met its sessive thrust until the rhythms elerated as if there were no end. My body went rigid as I feel his hot liquid explode inside me. Gradually I also felt the hot liquide out of me. He pushes hard while releasing his sweet juices. He searched my lips for a kiss. We are now drive in silence. I can¡¯t help but ponder the tenderness of his kiss, just as I felt a rush of euphoric bliss envelop me, making my heart sing with pure joy. At the same time, there are a few more thrusts that are up to the bone. *** I WAS AWAKENED by a little kiss on my neck, and a smile shed on my lips before looking around. As if I were stoned by what I saw, his lovely face opened out to me. I swallowed hard as I stared at his strawberry-red lips. He licked his lips sexily before he speaks. ¡°How was your sleep?¡± He hugged his big arms around my body. ¡°Great,¡± I murmured before smiling sweetly at him. He stared at me first before looking down at my gaping lip. He started moving his hand to cup my face and slowly kissed my nose, down to my waiting lips. I breathe sharply, shut my eyes, and wait for him to kiss me. But the kiss had stopped when we heard a series of knocks from the door. I quickly straightened up and tried to get away from him when he pressed my waist back to him. He then buried his face at the back of my neck. ¡°There¡¯s someone outside, Rence,¡± I said in a confused voice. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter who¡¯s at the damn door,¡± he whispered to me, then pulled me to him after being crushed by his fiery kiss. His kiss lit up the fire in my heart. I couldn¡¯t help but kiss him back torridly. But the knocks outside the door got louder and louder, causing me to let go. ¡°Fuck!¡± He walked to the door in his boxer shorts to open the door. I decided to get dressed and go out of the living room. And right there, I saw Elliesse at the doorstep. She nced at me, causing me to avert my gaze quickly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, it looks like I disturbed you,¡± she said in a tiny voice. My cheeks immediately blushed at the rising embarrassment. I know she has an idea of what happened between Lawrence and me. ¡°Can I borrow Lawrence for a while? The photoshoot is about to start, and he needs to be there,¡± she said without a pause. She also looked straight into my eyes without giving any emotion. I heard Lawrence sigh as he turned to me before speaking. ¡°I¡¯ll be back in a minute,¡± he said in a hushed voice, then without saying a word, he kissed me on the lips. The kiss he gave me made my feet lift. It was toote for me to think that Elliesse was still in front of us. ¡°I¡¯ll be back in a minute,¡± Lawrence said before closing the door. My mouth dropped. Is it true that I saw him close the door on Elliesse? It was heartbreaking that I just followed him with my gaze as I quickly got dressed. Truth Or Dare Truth Or Dare I ATE LUNCH by myself and then went for a walk along the beach. The camera¡¯s sh caught my attention, as did the crowd gathered to observe the ongoing photoshoot at the shore. I stopped when I finally found a nice spot where I could see Elliesse posing. She looks stunning in a long, thin white gown that emphasizes her whiteness. She is sitting on a big tree with the lovely San Simon Sea in the background. As I looked around, I saw Lawrence with a man in the distance. He is now wearing a gray long sleeve polo and denim pants. My heart melted as he turned his gaze to met mine. I bit my lower lip. The intensity of his stare makes my heart pound so fast. I quickly looked down. Damn, I could still feel him inside me. The heat and the pleasure are still there. I only looked back at him when I saw him talking on his cellphone. The furrow in his brows is very visible at my sight. I also saw that he shook his head a few times while talking. I stared at him with a look of concern on my face until he turned around and walked away. I haven¡¯t seen him yet because of the crowd. So I just fit in watching Elliesse¡¯s photoshoot. ¡°Pack up!¡± the director shouted at his staff. Elliesse, on the other hand, fled after being ummeled by people demanding her autograph. I never saw Lawrence again all day. *** IT WAS LATE afternoon when I went to the beach. I kicked the sand and looked at the orange sky. I felt nothing but peace of mind. Here, I had the experience of forgetting about the problems I hadst month, particrly the pain in my heart. My mind goes back to what happened in the church, how I look like a fool to everyone left in the air by the person I love. I¡¯ve almost lost everything, how the star fell at my feet. I thought I would never feel this way again. I thought my heart would remain a stone, but Lawrence made me feelplete again. He¡¯s the reason I¡¯m smiling right now. I think this is the right time to forgive Lester and free myself from the painful things that have happened between us. I want to start again, build a dream with people who have given me new strength to continue living. I filled my lungs with windy air and blew it out freely. At the same time, I freed myself from the painful yesterday. I continued walking and chose to sit on a boulder. Here I observed the quiet sunset. ¡°It is so beautiful,¡± I whispered as I could feel the gusty wind and warm sand on my feet. I was there for a few more minutes before deciding to return to the hotel. But I was distracted by the groups entering the resort. If I am not mistaken, Peter¡¯s group ising, along with our business partner Jocko. ¡°Margaux!¡± Jocko greeted me. I hesitated to step closer to them. ¡°Hi!¡± I beam. ¡°Margaux, how long have you been here?¡± Peter asked me with his furrowed brows, still not believing to see me here. ¡°A few days ago,¡± I told him and looked away. ¡°Bro, introduce us,¡± I overheard the guy close to him whispering. I was shocked when a woman pinched his ear. ¡°You¡¯re aplete nonsense, William.¡± ¡°Shut up, William!¡± ¡°Oh my Ally!¡± he said while writhing in pain. The rest of them justughed, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Jocko ordered them. He also introduced me to his friends. ¡°Margaux, my friends, William and Allysa,¡± he said, pointing to the two, with Ally still clutching William¡¯s ear. ¡°Jeremy and Santino.¡± He pointed to the two guys who stayed with them. ¡°Of course, Julia and Samantha are the lovely women alongside me.¡± When she presented me to the finaldy, I believe she was in herte twenties, his grin reached his ears. ¡°And guys, this is Margaux Collins,¡± he introduced me. ¡°Hi, nice to meet you.¡± I waved my hand and smile at them. ¡°So, are you guys on vacation?¡± I asked quietly. ¡°Yup,¡± he nodded. ¡°I heard Elliesse is here for the photoshoot?¡± Jocko added before looking around at Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. Samantha. ¡°Uh, yeah.¡± I simply nodded and shrugged a bit. I no longer wonder why they knew Elliesse. ¡°Who are you with?¡± Peter asked me with amusement on his face. My face was redder and hotter than the sunset. ¡°I¡¯m with . . .¡± ¡°Lawrence, right?¡± he cut me off and clenched his jaw visibly. I nodded slightly. I immediately bowed my head out of embarrassment. *** ¡°SEE YOU AROUND, Margaux!¡± Jocko said goodbye to me and walked into the hotel first, and I just nodded. They went straight to the front desk as I walked straight in. I turned around as Peter walked with me. ¡°Where is your room? I¡¯ll take you there,¡± he asked confidently. I smiled at him for a moment and pointed to the door where I was headed. ¡°Alright, join us for dinner,¡± he said while the smile was still on the lips. ¡°All right, no problem,¡± I beam as I epted his invitation. ¡°Great. I¡¯ll pick you up at seven, then,¡± he said and nced down at his wristwatch slowly. I nodded in response. ¡°See youter.¡± He waved at me before turning his back on me to leave. I looked at him for a moment before entering my room to take a bath and clean up. I just chose to wear a white T-shirt and ck walking shorts dyed only with flip flops. I also chose to wear a cardigan to hide my skin in the cold air. I ban my hair into a sweet braid and brush a light of makeup. I heard a few knocks from outside, so I grabbed my sling bag to open the door. Peter¡¯s handsome face immediately appeared to me. He looks good in his polo shirt and khaki shorts, paired with t white shoes that fit him even better. He also checked my whole body that makes my cheeks redder. ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± he mumbled to me and gripped my elbow carefully. We headed out of the resort, where there was a row of diners directly facing the sea of San Simon. He guided me inside to Jocko¡¯s table. ¡°You got the girl!¡± said William when he saw using. He even had a fist bump with Peter before we both sat down. Allysa kicked him before pinching his ear. He whispered to the woman and kissed her tenderly on the cheek which immediately turned her cheeks into red. ¡°Hi, Margaux!¡± Others weed me with a smile, and I greeted them with a smile too. The food we ordered came quickly, and while we were eating, the talking continued. They are happy to be with me, and I amfortable with them too, even though they intrigue me with Peter. I just ignore it. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for their jokes.¡± He lowered his head and whispered straight to my ear. I straightened up in the seat and smiled slightly at that move. ¡°It¡¯s alright. They look kind though,¡± I answered quietly. Sadness Sadness WHEN WE FINISHED eating, we went to the beach and lit a bonfire. It was nice to feel the heating from the fire due to the cold wind blowing. We sat around there while Jeremy and Santino came out with wine and some snacks. ¡°You have beautiful skin,¡± Julia whispered, then pressed her brown arm to me. ¡°You too, I really envy brtes. I prefer to get tan just so I can achieve that color,¡± I said with a smile on my lips. ¡°I guess that¡¯s how it really is. You still won¡¯t be able to get it if you don''t have anything else,¡± she whispered painfully before turning to Jeremy. Without hesitation, I raised my hand to caress his back. She looked so surprised when she turned her gaze at me. ¡°Girls instinct,¡± I said after smiling at her. ¡°Are you going to drink?¡± Santino asked me. ¡°No, she can¡¯t drink,¡± Peter answered so I could do nothing but shook my head so as not to have a long conversation. So, in the end, Santino just offered me a coke in a can. The night deepened at the same time they were drunk. William and Allysa are already dancing in the middle because the live band from the nearby resto-bar could be heard from here. ¡°Oh, here¡¯s Lawrence and Elliesse!¡± said Jocko before standing up to greet the two who came. I nced at them. As Lawrence neared us, I saw Elliesse still clinging to Lawrence. I instantly raised an eyebrow at them, as did the eye-catching questions I had given to Lawrence. ¡°How are you, bro?¡± Jocko shook hands with him, then turned to face Elliesse and kissed her on the cheek. ¡°It looks like you¡¯re enjoying it,¡± he said in a baritone voice, his eyes flying at me now that Peter is next to him. ¡°Come on, join us!¡± Jocko invited them, which they immediately epted. They chose to sit in front of us, where I finally had Lawrence¡¯s dark stare at me. I let out a loud gasp before I lost the ability to gaze down. I can feel my heart beating fast. Add more questions as to why he and Elliesse are together now. ¡°Are you okay?¡± Peter asked me in a concerned manner. I turned to look at him before nodding. He tilted his head and asked me again. ¡°Are you sure?¡± I nced at Lawrence, who was still staring at me. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m okay,¡± I answered forcefully before lowering my gaze to the coke bottle in front of me. ¡°So, who wants to y a game?!¡± Santino interrupted while holding the empty bottle in his right hand. ¡°We are in!¡± the girls answered. I just silently stared at them and sometimes smiled. ¡°Okay. Let¡¯s y truth or dare!¡± he said to everyone and quickly turned the empty wine bottle around. At first, he confronted William, and he immediately asked him. ¡°What¡¯s the real score between you and Ally?¡± he asked curiously, at the same time the two were tempted. ¡°Can I ept the dare?¡± William replied, but Allysa suddenly punched him, so everyoneughed. ¡°All right, William!¡± Allysa fires him a killing look. ¡°We¡¯re in a rtionship,¡± William admitted while scratching his head. Allysa immediately hugged him and quickly kissed him on the lips and was surprised. Santino turned the bottle again and immediately confronted Jocko. ¡°Truth or dare?¡± Santino asked. ¡°Dare, of course!¡± Beforeughing out loud. ¡°Okay, soak in the sea for 15 mins,¡± Samanthamands seriously to him. ¡°Hey, the water is cold!¡± he insists. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to, then choose truth instead!¡± Samantha raised an eyebrow at him. ¡°All right, no problem!¡± he proudly said before he stretches his neck. ¡°Who is your ultimate crush?¡± Samantha repeatedly spoke. She stared at Jocko and waited for the answer. Everyone is waiting. But Jocko suddenly stood up and ran to the quiet sea to do the dare. My jaw dropped in surprise. Almost everyone did not expect Jocko to do that. When he returned, he was shivering. Jeremy immediately handed him a towel. Samantha just stared at the wet Jocko and stared at him. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll spin again!¡± Santino said. The bottle quickly spun as he confronted the quiet Lawrence. My back was straightened when I sat down because he immediately looked up at me. ¡°Truth,¡± he instantly said and defensively crossed his two arms against his chest. ¡°Are you and Elliesse have a rtionship?¡± Peter asked him a question. I saw the tightness of his jaw as Elliesse clung to his arm. Silence lingered for a moment. He seemed to estimate what to answer. I noticed Elliesse whispering to him, so his perfect jaw tightened. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. ¡°Yes,¡± he replied. I slowly looked down at the soft drink I was holding. So they are really back together? And how about me? Will that be ignored? Great, I fucking give them a slow p at the back of my head. The girls seemed to tremble and asked for a kiss. Peter must have noticed my stiffness next to him, so he held my cold hand tightly. I saw how Lawrence looked down there, and he looked up at me with his dark, steady gaze. ¡°Kiss!¡± Samantha and Julia screamed. I took a deep breath as Elliesse pulled his cheek to give him a warm kiss. I could feel my heart being torn apart. I could not deny I am not hurt. I averted my eyes after not saying anything but took the ss of alcohol and drank it straight. I noticed Jocko ncing at me, who was now able to change clothes and wipe his wet hair. When that kiss was over, everyone apuded except Peter and Jocko, who were now sitting quietly. I saw the smile on Elliesse¡¯s lips as she nced at me. I ignored what she did, but I poured a wine into the ss before sipping it. ¡°Don¡¯t drink too much, Margaux,¡± Peter stopped me, but I didn¡¯t seem to hear anything. I lifted the ss many times before drinking it straight. I also didn¡¯t pay attention to how some of my actions seemed. I rotated a couple more times after that before bing dizzy. My throat and stomach felt constricted when I clenched my eyes firmly, yet there was nothing more agonizing than my heart at this moment. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll spin the bottle again?¡± Santino asked everyone, but no one answered. I smiled at him and bravely snatched the bottle. ¡°I will spin the bottle,¡± I said in a hushed voice. The bottle spun again. And I¡¯m hoping it will make contact with Lawrence once again because I want an answer. I need answers to the question of why he¡¯s causing me so much pain. And fate yed with me when the bottle hit Lawrence again. I bit my bottom lip as I looked at him straight to the eye. ¡°Truth,¡± he said directly. I felt buried in my chair and couldn¡¯t talk right away. My words are stuck in my throat so badly that I can¡¯t even ask him a question. I¡¯d want to know whether you and Elliesse are actually dating. How did this happen? And how about me? There are plenty of unanswered questions in my mind. It was Jocko who broke the silence. ¡°All right, I¡¯ll just ask Lawrence,¡± he sipped on the ss and gave me a look. ¡°No, let her ask, Jocko,¡± Lawrence said calmly. Stay Stay I FILLED MY lungs with salty air before I speak. ¡°Do you really have a rtionship with her? I-I mean, since when?¡± I don¡¯t care if I sound desperate. I just really want to know the truth. They all looked at me as if my question had confused them. I wasn¡¯t scared to ask him that question, perhaps because I was dizzy after a few straight shots. His perfect jaw tightened, tugging the corner of his lips frantically. ¡°What do you want me to answer?¡± he asked bluntly. His eyes remained dark and shrouded. I swallowed hard; vision fixed on the ground. He seemed to be slowly eating me because of his dark stare. Everyone became silent, and no one dared to speak. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll take the dare,¡± he rubbed the back of his neck frustratedly and waited for my reply. ¡°Kiss me,¡± I bravely said. Almost everyone was stunned by what I said, but I lit up my chin to show I am serious. He clenched his jaw tight and lightly shook his head at my remarks. ¡°What did you say?!¡± Elliesse eximed. Then she turned to Lawrence and red at him with a warning look. ¡°No, you can¡¯t, Margaux,¡± Peter told me, obviously shocked by what I said. I kept my eyes on Lawrence, who still did not take his eyes off me until he gave up and exhaled violently. ¡°If that¡¯s what you want, then . . .¡± he mumbled to me. Before Eliesse could stop him, he crossed the gap between us. He moved closer, bending his two knees at the sand, and kissed me. His lips brushed against mine, yet it was a hot and sweet torrid kiss. His hand stroked my back and drew me in closer. I feel as if angels have dragged me up to paradise, but I can sense its violent release before it can take me there. I also feel like he let go of everything we had. Everything that happened between the two of us left nothing but pain. ¡°I hope you¡¯re satisfied,¡± he softly whispered to my ears and slowly drew away. Feeling has a ¡®run out of gas¡¯ emotionally. Out of sheer resentment, I stood up and, without hesitation, walked away. ¡°Margaux!¡± Peter and the others called me, but I did not look back. I just took a straight step with no direction to go as the abundant tears continued to flow from my eyes. But there was a strong hold on my arm that prevented me from taking a step. ¡°What are you doing?¡± he said. His voice is stiff. Instead of responding, I removed his hands on my arm, but it was as solid as iron. ¡°Give me a break!¡± I screamed angrily, attempting to pull my arms. ¡°Margaux, let¡¯s talk,¡± he ordered. ¡°What else are we going to talk about? It looks like you and Elliesse are okay now. This is really what you want, right? Being jealous of her so that she cane back to you.¡± I gasped heavily and lifted my chin to continue. ¡°This is my fault, right? I agreed to pretend to be your girlfriend for what? For you to make me look stupid?!¡± I spat angrily. ¡°It¡¯s not in my n.¡± His voice is softer and gentle. I do not seem to want to refute my allegations. ¡°Oh,e on, Lawrence, do you have no backup ns?¡± I violently wiped the tears from my cheeks. He could not speak at that point. Iughed heartily and violently turned away from him, but he grabbed my arm again and presented me to him with all his might. We exchange look for a moment until he lowered his head down, defeated. ¡°It wasn¡¯t my n to-¡± he stopped talking and sighed. ¡°Lawrence!¡± I turned to Elliesse¡¯s voice behind him. However, he was no longer quiet, and his gaze was fixed on mine. ¡°Rence, what?!¡± she called again. Lawrence shut his eyes irritably. ¡°Let¡¯s talk about thister,¡± he said lowly. Instead of answering, I pulled my hand he was holding. ¡°I want to go home,¡± I said coldly and looked away. ¡°No, you can¡¯t. You¡¯re not leaving.¡± His strong disapproval was very evident on his face. ¡°Yes, I can. I can go alone even if you don¡¯t take me!¡± I said expressionlessly before leaving him. I paused for a moment to nce at Elliesse, who just raised an eyebrow at me. I ignored what she did and walked away from that ce. I went straight to my room and cried in my bed. Why do I need to endure this pain? Why do I think this pains me more than that idiot Lester did before? There are so many questions in the back of my mind, but when I think about it, I have no right to demand from him. I agreed to this setup, and if there is anyone to me in the end, it¡¯s me. *** I¡¯M STILL TOOzy to get out of bed today. I couldn¡¯t bring myself to look at the dresser and think. The sweet smile on my face instantly vanished, leaving just swollen eyes. I put on light makeup and pulled my hair down into a loose curl. I took out my bag after washing and getting dressed; I want to return home today. But before I could do that, I stayed inside for a few more minutes, allowing my gaze to roam. I sat on the soft bed and caressed it softly. Heat rushed upon both cheeks. Every detail of what happened to Lawrence and me on this bed was very clear to me. I shook my head. Was it wrong of me to quickly put my trust in him? All I wanted is someone who can understand me during my weakest point. Someone who will make me feel safe and warm. Someone who will assure me that everything will be alright. But I cannot demand love and affection. I didn¡¯t know where I was going or when I¡¯d get there. I¡¯m not N?velDrama.Org owns this. sure where to begin since I¡¯m not sure how or when it will begin or finish. Before I could cry, I turned around to open the door, but I was surprised when it opened on its own and spat out the guy of my dreams. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± I asked in a toneless voice. Instead of answering my question, his eyes drifted to my bag, and he looked back at me. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere, Margaux,¡± he said with authority. ¡°You will not tell me if I leave or not, Mr. Saavedra.¡± My words were stuttering from my mouth. I would have fallen already if I hadn¡¯t firmly gripped my bag because my knees were shaking. Fuck! Why am I so damn freaking scared? He shook his head with disbelief. ¡°Please, let¡¯s talk about this first,¡± he said calmly. I bit my lower lip and looked away. A few minutes passed between us before I let out a violent breeze from my chest and spoke. ¡°Is it true that you and your ex are back?¡± I asked silently. But he did not answer. His jaw just kept on tightening. ¡°See? You can¡¯t even say anything,¡± I sarcastically said and stomped towards the door. Yacht Yacht BUT I FELT his warm palm on my arm and snatch the suitcase I was holding. I shut my eyes with anticipation. The truth is, I didn¡¯t want to let go. I wanted him to hold me like this for as long as possible. But I was hurt. I was devastated and humiliated. I wanted to stay in his arms, but I just can¡¯t. ¡°I have to go,¡± I barely whisper to him and snatch my bag from his grip. I could feel his rejection of what I said and some violent breathing before speaking. ¡°I¡¯ll drive you home,¡± he finally said. I smirked. ¡°You don¡¯t have to. I can go alone, and I don¡¯t need your help!¡± I shouted. I also tried to pull my arm away from him, but I only got weaker. ¡°Let¡¯s talk. There¡¯s something you need to know.¡± I chuckled. ¡°What do I need to know? I heard everything I needed to knowst night. It¡¯s clear to me. So stop making excuses, Mr. Saavedra,¡± I expelled angrily. He let out a sigh and looked at me for a long moment, then shook his head. ¡°You give up easily,¡± he sounded very disappointed. Iugh so hard, not wanting to show I was hurt. I gave up not because I want to. I gave up because I need to. His eyes darkened even more. I swallowed. It was as if I was about to give up because of the intense N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. nervousness. ¡°Margaux!¡± We both turned to the voice that called to me. My eyes widened in surprise from recognizing her. ¡°Cindy!¡± ¡°I missed you, bestie!¡± She hugged me tightly as she got closer. I turned my eyes to Lawrence, who turned his gaze in the other direction. I let go of the hug. ¡°How¡¯s Hawaii?¡± I asked her quickly to divert her attention out of him. Her face turns rosy red and slightly bit her lower lip. ¡°It was so much fun! I have so many stories with you!¡± she excitedly said. Behind her, I saw Carrick approaching in our direction. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re leaving?¡± She looked down at the suitcase I was carrying. ¡°No, she¡¯ll stay here for a couple of weeks more,¡± Lawrence interrupted, looking straight into my eyes. I gasped heavily and looked away. Cindy raised an eyebrow at me and looked back and forth between the two of us. ¡°Is there something I do not know?¡± she whispered with a twinkle in her eye. Instead of answering, I just shrugged my shoulders at her. I was grateful for Carrick, who greeted me before facing Lawrence. As they walked aside to speak, I was able to breathe more freely. ¡°You will tell me a lot I need to know, Margaux,¡± Cindy whispered to me again. All I could do was sigh. *** ¡°WHAT HAPPENED?! WHY are you here? What about your job in Man?!¡± Since we both entered my room, Cindy has not stopped asking questions. Now I¡¯m fixing the clothing I¡¯ve taken from the bag. I could not go because of Cindy¡¯s sudden arrival. She stopped me to extend my vacation for a few more days. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to answer all my questions, I will go ask Carrick about this!¡± Her voice is threatening, and she is attempting to stand up. I watch her carefully, deciding whether I should tell her the truth or not, ¡°Okay, fine!¡± I sighed in defeat. Then I started to tell her everything about Lawrence and me. ¡°What? That Lawrence is stupid! He wants that woman rather than to be with you?¡± she blurted out while both eyes narrowed at me. ¡°I¡¯m not sure about that,¡± I answered quietly, refusing to meet her eyes. ¡°Huh?! Are you still trying to defend that man? Margaux, I know you¡¯re smart but use your brain at least once!¡± she eximed and shook her head with disappointment. ¡°That¡¯s why I want to go. I don¡¯t want to stay here anymore,¡± I whispered, not sure what I said. She just looked at me intently while arranging my clothes. ¡°So, what are your ns now?¡± I stopped what I was doing and sighed violently. I¡¯m just trying to convince myself that I¡¯m okay, but deep down, I feel heavy and tired because I know this was entirely my fault. ¡°I don¡¯t know . . .¡± Emotion shed across my face. If I stay here, I will only hurt myself more. ¡°Hmm, I have an idea,¡± Cindy told me and gave me a devilishly smile. And I can¡¯t help but to feel nervous. *** AS CINDY SAID, she asked me to an ind hopping, something I quickly refused. I would rather just lock myself in my suite than go out and just see Lawrence. Lawrence tried to exin to me a few times, too, but I strongly rejected him. I used the rest of my day to make the most of my stay here, never noticed that I wasted my time hiding myself to Lawrence. ¡°Yes, Dad, I¡¯ll be home next week.¡± I rubbed my forehead as I faced the dresser andbed my long hair. This does not mean that I know he will be pressured on the uing anniversary of Collin¡¯s hotel. ¡°No, just enjoy your vacation, as long as you update me when you get here and have a safe trip, my daughter.¡± I nodded. ¡°Yes, Dad, bye! Love you.¡± Then I dropped the call and turned my attention back to the mirror before sighing. Carrick and Cindy had a good time on the other side of San Simon Ind. We were supposed to go scuba diving on the other ind, and since my scheduled trip was next week, I agreed to go with them. I wouldn¡¯t say I like that idea because Lawrence mediated between us, and I have no choice. After all, we don¡¯t have any connections. So, why do I have to hide and confine myself here and squirm all day? I don¡¯t deserve to feel like I¡¯m worthless and unwanted. I don¡¯t deserve to be treated as an option, and fucking treated me like shit. So wipe your tears, stop crying and pick up yourself, Margaux. You don¡¯t deserve to cry for someone who never treated you right. I was stuck in deep thought when I heard a knock on the door. ¡°Good morning!¡± Peter broadly smiled as I opened it. Instead of greeting him back, I couldn¡¯t help but look at him. He¡¯s looking good as ever and even hotter thanst time. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen you in quite a while. How are you?¡± He stared into my eyes as if reading what was on my mind. ¡°Uh, I¡¯m fine.¡± I chose to give him a sweet smile. ¡°I will help you with that.¡± He carefully took my handbag from me, and I just let him. ¡°Ah, are you go on ind hopping?¡± I also wonder what he does in my suite. ¡°Of course, Carrick invited us.¡± I nodded as we exited the hotel. From a distance, I could see Jocko¡¯s group on the shore from here. They turned around as we approached. I could not help but bow in shame at what had happenedst week. Scuba Diving Scuba Diving ¡°MARGAUX, IT¡¯S GOOD that you came. We¡¯re all worried about you,¡± Julia told me with so much concern. ¡°Yes, it looks like alcohol was bad for you in the past, ah?¡± Allysa groaned as Julia stopped her by tapping her at the shoulder. ¡°Are you okay?¡± Samantha asked while keeping her eyes on her cellphone. ¡°I¡¯m okay, thank you,¡± I shyly said, both cheeks turned red with embarrassment because of the full attention they gave me. I also saw Cindy and Carricking with Elliesse and Lawrence. I didn¡¯t want our eyes to meet this time, so I just decided to avert my gaze. ¡°Everything is here,e on!¡± William shouted before pulling his girlfriend Allysa to a mini-boat to board a yacht not far away. One by one, we boarded the yacht that Lawrence allegedly owned. I just shook my head at what I found out. If I only knew, I would not havee and just went straight home. We stayed in the room reserved for us because the yacht was so big that we did not have to huddle in a room. Julia and I shared a cabin while Samantha and Allysa were in the other room. The boys as well as the couple Carrick and Cindy also separated the room. Lawrence and Elliesse are probably in the same room. Even if it hurts in my heart, I just put it aside and shrugged. ¡°Wow, it¡¯s so nice here!¡± eximed Julia before opening the room reserved for us. Like Julia, I could not help but marvel at the shouting pomp. Just before the entrance, I was weed by a high-quality chandelier. There was also an amazing chair lounge with a wooden table beneath the creamy tapestry. I turned right where the door had been sliding. The development of the yacht was evident from here. I decided to enter the room where I found Julia lying on the soft bed. I went straight to the closet to put my carrying bag there. ¡°Can I ask a question?¡± ¡°Sure, Julia. What is it?¡± I turned to face her, who was leaning in front of me. ¡°Have you been with Lawrence?¡± she curiously asked without a blinked. I sighed as I walk towards my bed, ¡°Nope . . .¡± ¡°Really?¡± She hitched her brows and mine, seemingly unwilling to believe my answer. I sighed again and shook my head repeatedly. ¡°Your darest time, hmm . . . I just noticed because his kiss to you is more intense than Elliesse,¡± she told me before getting up from lying down. ¡°Maybe it was just because of the alcohol,¡± I refused, but I couldn¡¯t help but blush at what I heard. ¡°Why did he run after you, then?¡± she asked with a raised eyebrow. ¡°He did apologize for what happened. I was wrong. I should not have said he kissed me even in front of Elliesse, and I admit I med him,¡± I said tonelessly. ¡°Why did he follow you when he was next to his girlfriend? We¡¯re puzzled, you know,¡± she intriguingly said and shrugged a bit. I swallowed. I didn¡¯t answer that because I also don¡¯t know the answer to it. I shook again and stepped back to the front of the closet. ¡°Life is really unfair. You love each other, but you cannot be together,¡± she said in a low tone. I turned my head to face her and smiled a bit. ¡°Is that some kind of a wisdom?¡± ¡°Hmm, kinda.¡± Sheughed and shrugged her shoulders. *** IT WAS NOON when Julia and I decided to go out to our cabin. The group was already on the deck, but I did not see Lawrence there. ¡°Hey, guys!¡± Jeremy greeted us. I waved at him with a smile as Julia immediately sat down on the lounger where he was sitting. ¡°Margaux!¡± Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. I turned to see Peter sitting on the railings. He was already wearing aplete suit as Carrick adjusted his oxygen tank at the back. It looks like they are ready for scuba diving. ¡°Be careful,¡± I said to him. ¡°Okay, guys, we¡¯ll go first, huh?¡± said Carrick and jumped into the sea with Peter. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± said Cindy. Like her, I was also dressed in a suit to prepare for the jump. When we were ready. Elliesse and Lawrence arrived. Elliesse wears a ck bikini, and Lawrence wears a basic short shirt. I could watch them freely with my goggles, and in that way, I stared intently at Lawrence. ¡°Margaux, let¡¯s go!¡± Cindy woke me up, confused, as I adjusted my goggles before ncing at Lawrence, who looked in our direction again. ¡°Ready?!¡± Cindy asked me. I nodded before throwing my body into the blue sea. I could not help but marvel at what I saw. It is worthwhile, and our eyes are full of the many species that can be seen. After I took a few shots with the waterproof camera, Cindy and I went upstairs. We were greeted by the delicious smell of lunch that Samantha cooked. It turns out that she is a chef that Jocko tells us. ¡°If my fianc¨¦ can cook like this, well, I have nothing more to look for!¡± Jocko stated while chewing the food in his mouth. ¡°Don¡¯t talk when your mouth is full!¡± Samantha pinched his cheek, and hey down in pain. ¡°You¡¯re really different, Sam. What potion are you putting in here?¡± said Jeremy, who was very fond of the spicy crab he ate. ¡°The main ingredients of all my dishes are simple, which is love,¡± she revealed and looked straight to Jocko, who was busy eating again. ¡°Love again? Why do you always need love? Can¡¯t it just be in the ingredients really so delicious? Can you taste the love in what you eat?¡± Williamughed out loud at the same time. Allysa squeezed his ear, so thetter grinned. ¡°When you¡¯re in love, everything is beautiful, so I like to cook more, especially when the person I love eats it,¡± she sweetly said, and then her cheeks turned red. I couldn¡¯t help but nce at Lawrence, and his piercing dark eyes made me feel ufortable in my seat. ¡°That¡¯s right. You know you just eat, you can¡¯t live with that love, it can¡¯t be eaten.¡± Jockoughed as he picked up a prawn near Samantha. ¡°Are you numb?!¡± Samantha pped him so that he would not run awayter. I, on the other hand, was just quietly listening to them. I ignored Peter next to me, who had been opening me up with crabs and prawns. ¡°Thanks.¡± I smiled at him as he put the peeled prawns on my te. ¡°Ouch!¡± I immediately nced in Elliesse¡¯s direction because her finger was bleeding, which I thought was the crab¡¯s skin. Lawrence immediately attended to the tissue. ¡°Does it hurt?¡± Lawrence asked. I chose to bend over to the food when he took and focused his eyes on her hands. ¡°Let¡¯s wash your hands, please excuse us!¡± he said without bothering to turn around all of us and went inside to apany Elliesse. I suddenly lost my appetite and decided to finish the meal and breathe on the yacht¡¯s far side. I¡¯m shutting my eyes and feeling that cool, calming air. I wish I can always enjoy a nice wind like this. I feel like it sympathizes with me in whatever I go through now. Truth Truth I WAS SUDDENLY startled when someone stands next to me. My eyes instantly turned to my side, which made me gasped. ¡°Are you done eating?¡± he asked me softly. ¡°I lost my appetite,¡± I mumbled, looking back at sea. My heart violently raised as he bowed to the railings where I was holding. He leaned closer into my side and looked intently to my eyes. I was stunned from standing. I thought I could meet his stares, but my eyes remained on the strong waves. He let out a heavy sighed that sent a shiver down my bones. I tightened my grip on the railings because any moment now, I might fall off the curb. ¡°Maybe Elliesse is looking for you,¡± I said to Lawrence after a long moment of silence. ¡°She¡¯s taking some rest at her cabin.¡± I smiled bitterly. ¡°That¡¯s why you are here,¡± I sarcastically said. He did not answer, but I heard his violent sigh next to me. ¡°Margaux,¡± he started in a softer voice. But I chose not to answered back and remained my gaze at the deep blue sea. ¡°Please, look at me,¡± hemanded. I have nothing to lose by gently touching one of my cheeks to look away from it, but I choose to fixed my nce at my feet. ¡°Please, Margaux, look at me,¡± he softly begging. ¡°No, I won¡¯t,¡± I said firmly. I want it all over. My breathing is no longer normal. I feel so weak and vulnerable. I only have a little rope left, and I will be given forever. So, I filled my chest with air and bravely stepped on my feet to leave, but he quickly grabbed my arm to stop me. ¡°Just stay a little more minute, please,¡± he muttered. I could feel his warm breath under my skin, and the scorching heat from his hand intensified my feelings. However, I chose to strengthened my posture. I bravery turned my head to face him. ¡°What do you want?¡± I said with no emotion. I wanted to raise the tone of my voice, but I couldn¡¯t. Now I¡¯m melting into how he¡¯d stare at me. Our eyes are locked in an unblinking stare. My heart was beating fast, and I can¡¯t breathe properly. He reaches up to his fingers on my cheek and stares down at me, searching my face with such intensity. ¡°I missed you,¡± he utterly said. I¡¯m no longer rebelling against his gentle touch, and I am no longer fighting. I just tremble weakly in my knees. He opened his mouth to speak, but a voice at my back interrupted us. ¡°Lawrence, your fianc¨¦e is looking for you.¡± I did violently look around at that voice of Peter. I froze at my feet. Lawrence had not released me. I would not have been able to speak. ¡°Fianc¨¦e?¡± I asked him furiously. He shook his head. ¡°There are more important things that you need to know.¡± I chuckled. ¡°Well, congrats to both of you. Isn¡¯t this what you want?¡± I smiled bitterly and stepped back. ¡°No, please don¡¯t . . .¡± He caressed my wrist, but I took more steps backward. ¡°Lawrence, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s not right to mingle with another woman when Elliesse is set to marry you,¡± Peter enunciate. ¡°Why don¡¯t you mind your own business instead?!¡± Lawrence throws him a devilish look. ¡°Really? Let me tell you this. I will never let you hurt her again,¡± Peter said before pointing to Lawrence. ¡°Do you think you can make her happy?¡± Lawrence has a satire on his words. ¡°Of course, I can!¡± Peter confidently said. ¡°You¡¯re kidding me, Peter.¡± His lips settled into a mocking smirked. Peter clenched his jaw tight. I could feel his annoyance at what Lawrence said, so I decided to intervene. ¡°Will you please stop?!¡± I scolded. ¡°Stupidity is knowing the truth, seeing the truth, but still believing the lies; and that¡¯s what you are,¡± Lawrence said and pulled a tigger into Peter¡¯s head enough to explode. ¡°Fuck you!¡± Peter pushed Lawrence with all his might. ¡°I said stop it!¡± I sighed at the two of them and finally turned to Lawrence. ¡°Get away from me!¡± I pushed him violently, then turned to Peter. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Peter.¡± I pulled his hand to leave, but I was shocked when Lawrence stopped my other arm. But this time, Peter was the one I chose to apany, so I let go of his hand that he was free to let go. ¡°You know the answer now?¡± Peter sarcastically said to Lawrence and give a mocking smirk. I was shocked when he punched him, and Peter fell to the floor. I screamed at the speed of events. I wanted to stop them, but Peter quickly got up from his seat and retaliated with a punch. Lawrence hurt his jaw. He also retaliated quickly, and I could do nothing but shout. My tears began to fall, and my eyes clouded with the intensity of my emotions. I screamed so loud and panicking. My eyes get blurred. I can no longer breathe properly, especially when I see the two are bloody, as if no one wants to lose. Until my screaming became blurred in my hearing, I heard voicesing, but it was toote because my vision darkened. *** WHEN I WOKE up, I was in a room, and Cindy approached me immediately. ¡°Margaux! Thank God you¡¯re fine.¡± Her voice sounded relieved and rxed. ¡°Are you okay?¡± Julia asked. The concern was still in her tone. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Julia, thank you.¡± I tried to paint a smile. ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that,¡± she utters. I got up, but they help me. ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re okay?¡± Samantha sounded more concerned about me. ¡°What just happened?¡± she asked as she sits on the chair beside me. She waited for my answer, but I chose to change the topic. ¡°Uh, when will the yachtnd?¡± ¡°Maybe after a few minutes. We called the medic so that when you get there, you can be check immediately,¡± Cindy told me. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I even bothered you.¡± I lowered my head down, embarrassed at what happened. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s not a problem for us. The important thing now is that you are okay,¡± Julia assured me. I feel sorry for what happened. Although I want to apologize to Peter, shame has led me, so I decided not to. ¡°It¡¯s better if we leave Margaux alone to take some rest,¡± Cindy told Julia before nodding her head to me. ¡°Rest first. We¡¯ll juste back when the yachtnds,¡± she said and stroked my hair. ¡°Thank you.¡± I smiled at her but not reaching my ears. She let out a sigh. ¡°We will talk about what happened when we get back to the resort. Just take some rest, okay?¡± But I haven¡¯t slept since Cindy left the room. I am worried about what happened. I am also worried for Peter, who was affected by the trouble. N?velDrama.Org owns this. I adjusted to my sit after hearing a faint knock. ¡°Come in,¡± I said weakly. When the door opened, Elliesse walked straight towards me. ¡°How are you?!¡± she asked bluntly with brows twitched a little. ¡°I¡¯m okay,¡± I replied. Her eyes wandered around andstly to my face. ¡°You¡¯re really a good actress, aren¡¯t you?!¡± she angrily said with eyes squinted. Visitor Visitor ¡°WHAT DO YOU mean?¡± I asked with furrowed brows. ¡°You are a good actress, asking and begging for the sympathy of everyone knowing that the evil side is within you,¡± she fearlessly added. She now stood beside my bed with crossed arms. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡± I remained calm andposed. ¡°You pretended to be Lawrence¡¯s girlfriend and acting like a real one. How was that?¡± Her gaze deepened on me. ¡°Now he wins me back, so here you are now, chasing after him as if you were an official!¡± I swallowed the thunder forming in my heart. She already knows the truth. What should I say? ¡°Oh? Why can¡¯t you speak now?¡± I looked at her with disgust. ¡°If you¡¯re here to fight, you can get out because I don¡¯t have time for that.¡± ¡°No. I don¡¯t stomp down to your level. I just want you to know who I am in Lawrence¡¯s life and where you should be!¡± Her voice was full of sarcasm. I chuckled lightly, causing her face to wrinkle. I immediately got serious and looked up at her. ¡°Why? Are you afraid I might snatch Lawrence from you?¡± She seemed surprised at what I said but quickly recovered. ¡°Me? I¡¯ve never been threatened by anyone before, especially if it¡¯s just someone like you!¡± she replied quickly. ¡°In that case, what are you doing here?¡± The smile on her lips yed even harder. ¡°Actually, that¡¯s not the only reason I came here. I also want to thank you because if you did not pretend to be Lawrence¡¯s girlfriend, maybe I will not be able to realize that he is still the one I love.¡± Her lips rose as if mocking. She was about to turn around, but she faced me again. ¡°Oh, before I forgot, we¡¯re going to get married soon, and you are invited,¡± she sarcastically said before she stomped her heels out of the door. I did not immediately recover from what I heard. My heart died faster as my tears rush down my face endlessly. Why do I have to feel this pain again? I quickly wiped away the tears when I heard another knock, and Julia peeked. ¡°Uh, I saw Elliesseing out of here,¡± she started, slowly walking towards her bed. I did not answer. Instead, I adjusted myself for the uing yachtnding. ¡°Here, wear this. I don¡¯t know what happened, but I think this will help you,¡± she said afterying his sunsses on the soft bed. I smiled bitterly. ¡°Thanks for this,¡± I said when I epted what she gave me. She pulled my hand and held it tightly. ¡°You don¡¯t have to pretend that you¡¯re okay, especially with us. We¡¯re friends, right? If you want someone to talk to, I¡¯m just here,¡± she sincerely said. ¡°Thanks, but I¡¯m fine, really. You don¡¯t have to worry about me,¡± I assured her. She nodded at me, still not removing the concern from her eyes. After a beat of silence, she decided to stand up and pull the shoulder bag she was carrying. ¡°Let¡¯s go?¡± *** I WAS WONDERING around as I looked out of my office ss window, observing the traffic congestion in the city. It has been a month since I returned to Man. I kept myself busy for the hotel¡¯s uing anniversary because I don¡¯t want to disappoint Daddy, so I focused on every detail. I cut my gaze out the window when Karen knocked and went straight into my office. ¡°Your dad is on the line.¡± She smiled at me first before turning her back on me. I immediately picked up the cordless phone to answer the call. ¡°Hello, Dad!¡± ¡°How are you, hija? I¡¯ve never seen you in a while. Your mom missed you so much,¡± he said. I leaned over and leaned back in my office chair. ¡°I¡¯m just busy at work, Dad. Just say hello to mom. Please tell her I miss her too,¡± I sweetly said. I y the fountain pen in my hand and wait for his reply. ¡°By the way, hija, I need you toe to my office after lunch today. Let¡¯s talk about the uing anniversary of the hotel.¡± ¡°Yes, Dad, I¡¯ll be there after lunch,¡± I replied quickly. After saying goodbye, I stayed in that position before I firmly closed my eyes. The fountain pen I was holding was squeezing in a painful sense. My headache is getting worst these past few days. I also feel tired even at the beginning of the day. I pulled the medicine kit out of the drawer and got a pain reliever before resuming to work. After lunch, I went to Collin¡¯s hotel to meet my father. ¡°Margaux, hija!¡± I was greeted warmly by his tight hug. ¡°Dad!¡± I hugged him much tighter. I smiled widely after a long moment. I feel like the pain that has been weighing me down in recent N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. weeks has disappeared. ¡°I missed you, Dad,¡± I softly whispered to him. Before tears welled up in my eyes, I decided to let go of his hug. ¡°Hija, you look very thin and pale, and where those bugs came from, huh?¡± He even put the palm on my forehead. ¡°Dad, I¡¯m okay. I¡¯m just tired from work. I got a mild headache, but I¡¯m fine.¡± He sighed. ¡°Looks like you¡¯re neglecting yourself?¡± The concern is already in his tone. ¡°Dad, I¡¯m fine, really.¡± Then I smile at him. I sat straight in the metal chair in front of his table. ¡°Where¡¯s your proposal for the uing event of our anniversary?¡± ¡°Everything is nned, but I have not yet finalized the conversation with Mr. S-Saavedra.¡± I stuttered a bit because of nervousness. His brows arch with disbelief. ¡°Uh, but I will set a meeting with him. Maybe one of these days,¡± I utter,shes fall to myp. I looked up at him as his back rose from his office chair, two hands settled down on the table. ¡°Anyway, how was your vacation at Saavedra Resort?¡± He sounded very serious and yet with a bit of amusement. ¡°And I heard a rumor about you and Mr. Saavedra. Isn¡¯t it true that you were exclusively dating?¡± he asked maliciously. The thin smile on my lips did not escape me. ¡°No. Of course not, Dad!¡± I quickly refused. ¡°Alright, go to the mansionter. I told your mommy to make dinner there tonight.¡± ¡°Okay, Dad.¡± I smiled at him sweetly. It¡¯s good that he didn¡¯t ask about Lawrence and me anymore. Before leaving, I went to the mall because I n to give mommy a gift. I rarely see her because I prefer to stay in the condominium all the time. I went into a famous brand of bag because I knew she would like it. In fact, she has her room with her collection of different types and brands of bags at home. Sometimes I can¡¯t help but feel jealous, but when I see her happy, I am happy too. When I finally chose one, I paid for it and walked straight out of the mall. Wind Blows Wind Blows AS SOON AS I entered my car, my cellphone rang. But before I could answer it, the call ended. I put the handbag on the shotgun seat before starting the engine, but my cellphone rang again. I took it quickly to answer, but I did not move when I saw Lawrence¡¯s namee out. My pounding heart is almost choking me. The familiar pain hit my nerve unexpectedly. I stared at my phone for a beat second, not knowing if the call would be answered or not. I drew out a breath and decided to turn off my phone. I want him out of my system, and I can only do that when I canpletely avoid him. I drove quietly home, but my forehead furrowed when I saw the familiar car parked opposite our house. I was in the car for a few more minutes while staring at the car in front of me. ¡°This can¡¯t be happening . . .¡± I shook my head repeatedly. I crouched down on the steering wheel and tried to calm my submissive heart. Eventually, I mustered up the courage and decided to walk inside. ¡°Good evening, Ma¡¯am!¡± The housemate smiled broadly at me. ¡°Good evening.¡± I smiled at her and slowly walked towards the door. I hesitated for a moment when I heard loudughter and stories in the living room. ¡°Margaux!¡± Mother called my name. They turned their heads in my direction so I could do nothing bute to kiss them on the cheek before facing them. ¡°I missed you so much, daughter,¡± she said in a crack voice. I feel like she just suppresses the emotion. ¡°I missed you too, Mom,¡± I utterly said and hugged it tightly. ¡°I¡¯m really happy because you did not reject my request tonight.¡± ¡°Mom, just says it, and I will be here for you.¡± I smiled at her and caressed her shoulder. ¡°Oh, before I forgot, I have a gift for you.¡± I lifted the paper bag, which she quickly reached. She excitedly opens the gift. I was also not surprised by her reaction. She got surprised even though there is a hint of something I can give to her. ¡°Thank you so much, Margaux,¡± she delightfully said and kiss my cheek tenderly. ¡°Love you, Mom,¡± I countered. ¡°Ah, hija, I invited Mr. Saavedra to join us here tonight,¡± Dad interrupted. I nodded. Instead of ncing at him, I walked towards the dining room. ¡°What did Manang cook for tonight?¡± I said casually. I also sat down first at the dining. Daddy rxes his back in the center while Mommy is on the right in front of me. Lawrence is seated beside Mom, so I have no choice but to avoid looking at him. I remained quiet the whole time, and I thank Dad for bringing the topic to the table. As usual, the theme is about business and the uing anniversary of the hotel. I just quietly listen to them. I honestly have no intention of joining the conversation. I tossed my food ¡°How about you, hija? Any suggestions regarding the uing event?¡± Dad asked me. I immediately looked up at them. ¡°I¡¯m sorry?¡± I weakly said. It was not clear to Dad what I said. I felt like my brain was floating. ¡°You look tired, hija. Do you want to rest? I already prepared your room,¡± Mommy told me. I know how frustrated they are with what I have shown. But I can¡¯t really act normally now. Lawrence is in front of me. How dare him toughed and talk to my parents like nothing happened between us? So, I decided to lower the cutlery I was holding and stand up. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I was really tired after a long day. I just need some rest. Please, excuse me.¡± I no longer waited for them to speak. I kissed Dad and Mom goodnight, and again, I didn¡¯t even look at Lawrence. *** I WENT STRAIGHT to bed. I also could not change my clothes because I felt tired. About an hourter, I thought I could sleep, but drowsiness did not visit me. Why he¡¯s fucking running through my head? I do not understand myself. I also do not understand my heart as it continues to dominate. I shut my eyes firmly, trying to find the right ce to sleep. But I¡¯m lying wide awake, tossing and turning on my bed. So, in the end, I just decided to go down and head to the kitchen to get some cold water. Carrying a ss of water, I decided to go to the back of the house to feel some fresh air, where the oval shape swimming pool is. I smiled widely. Suddenly I thought of soaking in water. Maybe I can sleep well tonight if I jump in the cold water. I didn¡¯t think twice. I took off my clothes until the only thing left was my bikini. I was stuck in the cold water. I feel like I have lost the weight of my head. I feel refreshed and pristine. Even my private thoughts instantly vanished. I swam happily. I went back to the pool for a while before I thought of diving to the bottom. I spent a few minutes soaking my body in cold water when I felt something fall on the other end of the pool. I hurried up to pick it up, but I could only see bubbles and water waves. ¡°Who¡¯s that?!¡± I shouted. I waited for it toe up, but a few minutester, there was still no indication that it wasing up out of the water. ¡°Hello! Who¡¯s there?!¡± I shouted again. Feeling scared, I quickly looked around. It is impossible for Mom or Dad to jump into the water at night, even for the maids and the helpers. I was confused when I felt the water wave in my direction. I was about to swim to get up when someone suddenly pulled my waist, causing me to sink under the water. I was panicking. I also struggled hard because of the iron-like arms that hugged me. I could hardly breathe because of fear. I thought my breath wouldst underwater as I used to, but my air seemed to be short of anxiety and fear. Until a big hand wrapped around my waist tightly. Before I could move, one of his hands covered my back. Everything happened so fast. We are still under the water. My pulse is beating fast. My air pressure is about to run out. And before I pulled away, he had mmed his lips to mine. I hardly had a moment to react because I nearly knocked all my winds from my lungs. He gave me an air to breathe, causing me to have a chance to push it away. I took the opportunity to get away from it and quickly get out of the water. But before I could get away, he caught me again. He pulled me closer to him, wrapping his arms around me. My eyes widened when I met the man in front of me. Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. ¡°Lawrence?! What the fuck are you doing here?!¡± I pushed him away with all my might, but his embrace was too strong, and I sunk into the warmth of his body. Anniversary Anniversary ¡°ENJOYING THE COLD and breezy night,¡± he said casually. ¡°Damn it! Stop ying around, Mr. Saavedra!¡± I scolded and shot him a disgusted look. ¡°I¡¯m not here to y games with you, Margaux. I¡¯m just here to apologize.¡± I just ignored him and quickly turned around to get out of the water. I picked up my clothes one by one. ¡°Please, Margaux, let¡¯s talk.¡± He stopped my arm. I shut my eyes firmly. The night air filled my chest before I turned to him. I had prepared my sigh and kicked him out of the mansion, but my lips felt his. I blink, closed my eyes, and blink again. He¡¯s wearing nothing but ck boxer shorts. Water from his dark hair is dripping on the textile and slowly runs down to his broad shoulders. I stared for a moment with admiration. His strong chin, hanging jowls, ck mouth, and neck muscles were his drumhead tight. He looked like hell. All of it can easily bring me down. Easily. Even though I didn¡¯t want to, I was able to turn a blind eye because of the wind. ¡°I missed you so much, sweety,¡± he barely whispers to me. I felt his warm palm on my cheek. I slowly opened my eyes and made a move, but he didn¡¯t let me. ¡°Please, Margaux, let me exin.¡± He stopped me from moving away. ¡°No, you don¡¯t have to. I want you to leave right now if you don¡¯t want me to shout!¡± I threaten. He chuckled, so I frowned. ¡°I have permission to uncle, and I already talked to him about us,¡± he deres. My two eyebrows pressed even closer to what he said. Uncle? When did he learn to call my Dad like that? I shook my head. ¡°We have nothing to talk about. I¡¯ve finished everything we have, so please, get out of my fucking life!¡± I¡¯m almost sure his expression mirrored mine. It broke my heart, yes, that¡¯s not what I want toe out of my lips. I didn¡¯t want him to leave nor get away from my life. ¡°Look, I¡¯m sorry. I shouldn¡¯t have hurt you,¡± he said kindly. He didn¡¯t hesitate to take a step closer. His expression is etched with pure impulsion and some raw, dark emotion I can¡¯t name. I was shocked when he pulled the clothes I was holding and effortlessly put them on me. ¡°It¡¯s getting cold here,¡± he mumbled, a taunting edge to his voice that made me tremble. I bit down my lip and hugged myself tightly. Now I could feel the cold rising to my very feet because of the strong wind. ¡°I want to rest,¡± I mere whispered. He stepped closer again. He reached up to his hand below my ears, thumb caressing my cheek, and looked intently into my timorous eyes. ¡°Just a second, sweetie, let me tell you the things I wanted to say.¡± His voice is husky and softer. Before I took a few steps backward, he dragged my mouth to his and kissed me, tongue pressing past my lips. The silky heat of his tongue is a shot of adrenaline that I couldn¡¯t suppress. I am at his mercy. My anger and doubt dissolve instantly. I want to respond to that kiss because this is what I wanted to be, to be in his arms again. But I drew away quickly. I also gave a p in his face as anger slowly rose in my eyes. His lips stretch in a thin line, and his jaw clenched damn hard. It seemed unbelievable what I did. My lips quivered. I had to swallow to get rid of the lump of my throat and took a step backward. ¡°You can leave now,¡± I dered. I turned around and started stepping on my feet as he spoke again. ¡°We just agreed to get married. And it was just a fucking marriage of convenience. No mutual affection. It¡¯s just politically and pure business!¡± I stopped and shot up my head for a beat second, not wanting to hear all his exnations. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I had enough of you Mr. Saavedra,¡± I painfully said. I finally left and walked away. *** I SAT ON the cool metal chair. From here, on the balcony, I could see the whole city. The sun is already rising from the ground. The sky was full of powerful hues, and the clouds were sprinkled with infinite pink rays. ¡°Is everything okay, hija?¡± Dad asked me over the phone. ¡°Yes, Dad, everything¡¯s fine here,¡± I replied. ¡°Leave the rest to your staff. We still have a party tonight.¡± ¡°I know, Dad. I¡¯ll just wait for the florist to arrive, then I¡¯ll be at my condo to prepare for the party tonight,¡± I said. I sat up after pulling the cup of coffee on the round table. I will not be able to eat because I am in a hurry to get here and under pressure on the uing anniversary. I want everything to be perfect. This is actually my first time handling a big event. I do not want to embarrass my father, even the guests, who will attend tonight. ¡°Are you sure, you alright? You sound very wearied.¡± I sighed deeply. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me, Dad. I¡¯m really fine,¡± I insist. ¡°Alright. By the way, I asked Mr. Saavedra to apany you today. I want everything to be fine tonight, as well as the food and drink.¡± My back immediately rose to the metal chair because of what he said. From the balcony, I could see Lawrence getting out of his white car. He looks good wearing his ck long sleeve shirt and blue jeans paired with shiny ck shoes. He ran his free hand through his hair sexily. I followed him, walking up a few until he passed quickly from my sight. I blew out a breath, trying to calm the thunder of my heart that was pounding in my chest. ¡°Hija, are you still there?¡± Dad asked me. ¡°Uh, yes, Dad,¡± I uttered before settling down. ¡°Alright, I will call youter.¡± ¡°Bye, Dad.¡± I immediately dropped the call and got up to start working. But I have not yet taken a step when I feel dizzy, feeling a bit weak, and fainted. I went back to sitting and rubbed my head. Oh, damn! I can¡¯t count how many times I have felt it. ¡°Excuse me, Ma¡¯am Margaux.¡± N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. I nced at the staff who called my attention. ¡°Mr. Saavedra is looking for you, Ma¡¯am,¡± she politely said. I gasped again and tried to stand up again. My brain still upies my constant dizziness. I feel something is no longer normal for me. And I¡¯ve noticed a sudden change of my body. I also suffered from constant headaches, nausea, and having a hard time to wake up every morning. I want to put aside my feelings and just focus on my goal. But how could I do that if I knew I was just fooling myself? I headed to the function hall where the gathering was held. I saw him chatting to one of my staff. I want to ignore him because we have nothing to talk about. But I¡¯m the one who¡¯s responsible for tonigh¡¯ts party and as being a professional, I approached him and he immediately turned to me. Unplanned Unnned ¡°GOOD MORNING!¡± HE greeted me with a hottie smiled on his face. I nced at some of the staff he was talking to, who were scrambling to leave in front of me before looking back at him. I simply nod, subtly cross my arms across my chest and try my best to act normal. ¡°What can I do for you, Mr. Saavedra?¡± I ask. His dark eyes lock with mine. He looks even better when I¡¯m this close. I sighed and quickly averted my eyes. ¡°Your dad called me early this morning and asked me to help you out for the party,¡± he said in a serious tone. I scoffed and let my eyes wandered around and end to his deep-set eyes. ¡°As you can see, everything is in order. Your staff is really hard-working, so you don¡¯t have to watch them anymore,¡± I stated. ¡°Margaux¡ª¡± I hold up my hands to cut him off. ¡°Mr. Saavedra, I¡¯ll just call you if there is a problem. Maybe you understand what I want to happen?¡± He did not answer; only the sloe-eyed disapproval gleamed will be visible. ¡°Do you understand?¡± I bluntly said. He didn¡¯t bother to answer. Instead, he gripped my hand tightly in front of everyone and dragged me outside the door. ¡°What the hell are you doing?!¡± I struggle. None of the staff wanted to drown in the scene. I finally thought that Lawrence¡¯s staff was all inside. ¡°Let me go!¡± I grumbled. But he did not obey mymand. We werepletely out of the room. From there, he quickly let me in just across the door. Everything happened so fast. Before my anger spilled from my mouth, Lawrence has pressed me against the door. I did not prepare myself for what he did next. I was punished and controlled by his cold lips. His fingers tangle in my bold hair. I could feel the trembling of my knees because of his explicit kiss. Without the door behind me, I probably wouldn¡¯t be able to stand it any longer. My hand held the hem of his shirt to steal some strength. He continued kissing me hungrily. Feeling we have ¡®run out of gas¡¯ emotionally. I tremble with the caress of his hands¡¯ slide, slowly and possessively down my waist and over my hips. The delved of his tongue growing softer and drawing deeply. Slowly he tears his mouth, forehead rest against mine. I closed my eyes; both our breaths are shaking. I try to calm the lost heart the most. ¡°Let go of me,¡± I said in a low voice. ¡°I call off the engagement. I¡¯m choosing you, Margaux,¡± he said in a hushed voice. I bit my bottom lip, I escaped with all my strength, but he exerted more pressure on my body, shoving me up against the door. We exchanged look for a moment before I could feel the edge of my tears. ¡°You don¡¯t know the feeling of being cheated and hurt. That feeling of stupidity,¡± I said with full of rage. I burst into tears. One by one, the pain of yesterday returned to me. ¡°The person I was supposed to be with for the rest of my life cheated on me. That fucking bastard screwed me! You don¡¯t know how painful that is for me, Rence!¡± ¡°I was vulnerable. It was the darkest day of my life. There was no reason for me to continue my life, and suddenly you came . . .¡± I smiled, a sad smile on my face. I gasped heavily, violently wiping away the tears that kept running down my cheeks. ¡°You came to me like a knight and shining armor. You ease all my pain and my hatred. You taught me how to trust again, even for a short time. I fucking trusted you!¡± I shouted. I used all my strength to push him. ¡°But I just thought all of that. You¡¯re just like them. You¡¯re the same!¡± His brow nted in strong disapproval, ¡°I can¡¯t do that to you, believe me, I don¡¯t want to hurt you.¡± Iugh, a cruel mockingugh. I saw a muscle in his jaw flexes. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. ¡°You already did, Lawrence. I was hurt. I regret everything that happened between us!¡± I clearly said. I didn¡¯t wait for him to speak again. I violently turned around to open the door, but I immediately felt very dizzy. ¡°Margaux, are you alright?!¡± I could feel his warm palm holding my back. I violently shook his hand and tried to open the door, but he held me tightly. ¡°You need some rest. My staff says you may beck sleep and need to rest for a few days.¡± His voice was sounding more concerned. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± For some reason, my voice was suddenly soft. His masculine scent gives and strong hand electrified me. ¡°I-I have to go . . .¡± I finally said I did not give him a chance to stop me. I went straight out of the hotel and got in my car to drive away. I gripped the steering wheel tightly. I just looked straight at the road, not knowing the direction to go. My heart achespletely. I want to shout and scream at the top of my lungs. If I could just not go back to the hotel so I wouldn¡¯t see him again, I would. I want to forget him, like what I did to Lester. It¡¯s funny because I feel more pain now than Lester cheated on me before. I chuckled while shaking my head with disbelief. I never think that I love someone so much, but I never thought he would hurt me this much. I blinked for a moment as I spotted a drugstore across the street. My grip on the steering wheel tightened. I¡¯ve never been so confused in my entire life, not at this very moment. I nced at the drugstore in my rearview and bit my lip hard before turning. *** MY HEART WAS pounding so fast. If I used to be anxious, now I feel like I¡¯m going to have heart disease because of too much nervousness. I¡¯m holding the pregnancy test I bought at the drugstore in my right hand tightly. A few minutes ago, I was walking back and forth in the CR in my room, and until now, I have not yet decided if I will use it. I bit my bottom lip and check the calendar again on my phone. I never noticed that I missed my periodst month. I sharply inhale while sitting in the toilet bowl. ¡°Come on, Margaux! You can do it!¡± I shut my eyes andy my frail body on the bed in a crouching position after seeing the pregnancy test result. I have three pregnancy tests at my side, and they showed up the same result. I¡¯m pregnant. I bit my lower lip harder as I could. Toote for the tears to be wiped off. Uncontrobly, I started to sob. This can¡¯t be happening! That was just one night! No, I¡¯m not pregnant. Maybe I¡¯m just tired at work. Maybe I justck sleep. I was slightly anemic and having a very bad headache. I¡¯m sure that¡¯s the only reason. I¡¯m not ready to have a baby. I still have many dreams in life. I¡¯ll be the new president of Collins hotel very soon. What will my father tell me? I know he has high expectations of me, and I don¡¯t want to disappoint him, but I regretfully say I failed him. I¡¯m a failure! I lowered my gaze to my t stomach, and I gently caressed it. I sighed deeply, then blinked emphatically. I¡¯m pregnant! And soon to be a mother! Heartbreak Heartbreak CARS WERE ALREADY lined up in the hotel parking space when I arrived. I¡¯m wearing a white halter dress, matching with my silvery purse and my half-inch stilettos. I went straight to the main door, where the entire function hall was almost filled with selected guests. From here, I could see Mom and Dad, so I quickly approached them. Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. ¡°Mom, Dad!¡± I kissed them both on the cheek and hugged them slightly. ¡°Where have you been, hija? You¡¯rete.¡± Dad asked me in a baritone voice. ¡°We thought you weren¡¯t going to attend the party. We¡¯re worried about you. We¡¯ve been calling your cellphone.¡± Mom added, ¡°I¡¯m very sorry.¡± I apologized. ¡°The important thing is you¡¯re here. And before I forgot, your friends are already here. They were looking for you earlier.¡± Dad nods in their direction. I smile widely because Julia, Samantha, and Ally are already there. Even the boys areplete¡ª Jocko, Santino, William, and Jeremy. Cindy and Carrick were also at the table with them. I decided to say goodbye to my parents first and go to their table. ¡°Hi, guys!¡± I approached them one by one to kiss. ¡°Are you really so busy that you don¡¯t even visit me at work?¡± Cindy said with a chuckle. ¡°Just for the event. I promise to make up to you, bestie,¡± I simply said. Instead of answering, she hovered my whole body. I immediately swallowed and quickly avoided looking at her. ¡°Hmm? All right, promise me that!¡± I breathed a sigh of relief as she turned her attention to food. I immediately sat down in the empty chair to face them. ¡°You are stunning, Margaux!¡± Juliamented to me. ¡°You too, you look pretty as always!¡± I replied. ¡°Wait, why do you look different?¡± Ally eyed me from the bottom up to my pale cheeks. She even looked closer at me before shrugging. ¡°Are you sick?¡± I swallowed nervously and shook my head slightly. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s just overworked and tired of this event.¡± I weakly said and shut up my eyes firmly. I feel the imminent reversal of my stomach with the mixed smell of food and alcohol in front of me. ¡°Your hotel is so big and elegant. It looks like it¡¯s nice to check in here,¡± Julia eximed and turned her eyes directly to Jeremy. ¡°The price is definitely good too.¡± Ally blunt then nods slowly. Julia rolled her eyes. She didn¡¯t even bother with Allysa¡¯sment. ¡°The food is good,¡± Samanthamented, eating fine next to Jocko. ¡°I¡¯m d you like it,¡± I replied. Lawrence was the one in charge of this part, even in the selection of drinks. ¡°Look who¡¯sing . . .¡± Cindy blurted out. She nods her head towards the main entrance. She even kicked me a little, so I followed what she was looking at. My heart skips a bit when I reach his warm hard eyes. He even looks hotter than before. I can¡¯t help but lift it at all. I sighed because he was not alone. He¡¯s with Elliesse along with Mr. Del¡¯fierro. *** I FURROWED MY brows and averted my gaze immediately. It seems like my stomach wants to turn more and more because of what I witnessed. ¡°God, will the marriage of those two really continue?¡± Cindy asks every one, but I know her question is directly for me. ¡°Well, we all see the evidence. They look good together.¡± Samantha shrugged her shoulder at her remarks. ¡°And what can you say about it, huh?¡± Cindy narrowed her eyes at me. She obviously wanted to say something meaningful in her question. Damn it! With all the questions, why me?! I tried not to smirked and act normally. ¡°They¡¯re good!¡± I quietly said. Cindy raised an eyebrow at me, and I widened my eyes, which was the sign of peace with me. I look back at them. They are already talking to Daddy and Mommy. And based on Elliesse¡¯s wide smile, I¡¯m sure they were talking about their marriage. I was offended by that idea. Even though I tried to hide it, I still could not deny that I was jealous. This is what I want, right? To leave me in peace. But why is it fucking hurt? Until he turned his pitch-ck eyes on me and makes eye contact with me, and I gasped. I could feel the blood pulsing through my veins, and even my heart pound surprisingly. But those stares faded as Elliesse grabbed his arm in front of him. I look down immediately! I found the ss of wine that I immediately drank. At that point, I felt my stomach ache. ¡°Uh, I just go to the bathroom,¡± I quickly said goodbye. On the way to the bathroom, my eyes get blurred due to extreme dizziness. I clung tightly to the wall and stayed there for a moment. ¡°Margaux?¡± I immediately straightened up from my stand and turned slightly to the voice. ¡°Peter?!¡± I stood straight and my mouth agape. ¡°Uh, are you okay?¡± He slightly scratches his head while staring at me. ¡°Y-yes, of course, I¡¯m fine!¡± I stammered. His eyes narrowed, and he took several steps towards me. I gulp nervously, ¡°J-just a minute!¡± I stopped him as he attempts to approach me and quickly followed the path to find the CR. But as I walked, my knees became weaker and weaker, so before I could get to CR, I copsed with extreme dizziness. ¡°Margaux! Please, wake up!¡± I stared slightly to see who was speaking. I smile when I saw Peter holding my hand. I think we are in one of the hotel suites. ¡°Hey, are you alright?¡± After I saw the concern in his eyes, I smiled and nodded faintly. I felt my stomach turn upside down again, so I quickly got up to run to the bathroom. It took me a few more minutes before I could think of going out. And as I was expected, Peter was waiting for me toe out. I can¡¯t exin the look he threw at me. I was immediately nervous that I could not exin. ¡°Tell me,¡± he paused, ¡°Are you pregnant?¡± Myshes fall. I can¡¯t answer. I bit hard into my lip because the flow of tears gradually shakes both shoulders. He chuckled, ¡°What the fuck?!¡± I close my eyes when he kicks the coffee table in front of me. ¡°Peter, please . . .¡± I sobbed. ¡°Who is the father?¡± He was angry and spoke quietly through clenched teeth. I shook my head. I can¡¯t say I¡¯m too scared. ¡°Is it Lawrence?!¡± he asked in a strident tone. Again, I bite down my lip much harder. I still can¡¯t tell the truth even if my silence already answers. ¡°That bastard! I will surely break his neck!¡± he threatened. I remained quiet and silently cried until I could feel him approaching me. Without saying anything, he steps close to me to give me a big hug. I could not stop crying in his arms. ¡°Shh. It¡¯s alright. Everything will be fine. I promise,¡± he says in a calm voice. At this point, I felt his sincerity. I squeezed myself even harder into his wide chest, where I knew I would not be hurt. Care Care I WOKE UP early Monday to prepare for my maternity checkup with an ob-gyn. I simply bun my hair into a half braid. A little make-up and lip tint are also applied to improve my simplicity. I was also wearing a basic red shoulder strap with t shoes. I smiled when I heard the doorbell rang from outside the door. I pulled my sling bag vigorously and quickly opened the door. ¡°Peter?!¡± I suddenly paused for a bit seconds. ¡°Oh, hi!¡± The shock was undeniable in my voice. I know he¡¯s the one behind the door, but when I saw how handsome he is today, I feel like I have been nk for a while. He stood in the doorway, wearing a huge smile on his face. ¡°Are you ready?¡± I blink my eyes and nod. ¡°Can I have your hand please, beautifuldy?¡± he extended his arm to reach mine, which I freely gave. I couldn¡¯t help butugh at his gesture, and I find him cute. He offered me to see a gynecologist because he said he knew a doctor who could help me. At first, I was embarrassed, but he encouraged me to do so. Ever since he found out I was pregnant, he was always calling to check on me. He even brought me some fruits and fresh milk so that the baby in my womb would grow up healthy. ¡°Are you feeling nervous?¡± Peter asked me. I simply nod because of the nervousness in my chest while Peter was sitting next to me. I sped my hand tightly and looked at him nervously. ¡°Peter, can we just not continue this?¡± ¡°What?¡± he chuckled and red straight into my eyes. ¡°Look around. You¡¯re not the only one who pregnant here. There are many of you.¡± He nced at some pregnant women sitting in a row not far from us. Most of the women are here are pregnant too. The stomachs of others are almost too big, and I think they will soon deliver a baby. I swallowed forcefully and tried to smile at the woman in front of me. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re such a lucky wife to have your husband with you,¡± said the pregnant woman in front of me. I immediately felt the warmth on both cheeks because of what she said. ¡°Actually, it¡¯s our first baby!¡± Peter looked at me when he spoke. I couldn¡¯t help but widen my eyes. I also pinched him on the side, so heughed a little. ¡°What?¡± he almost whispered to me. ¡°Shut up, Monteverde.¡± I sighed ¡°Oh, these kids, maybe you¡¯re newlywed. Am I right?¡± an old woman asked us. Next to her was a Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. younger woman who was also pregnant like me. ¡°How did you find out, Ma¡¯am?¡± Peter asked the older woman. She could not help but smile. ¡°Because you look sweet,¡± she replied quickly. I shut my lips tight. Those few words made me slow down, but only for a moment. Sweet? Where is the sweet in there? ¡°Where did you find your husband? I also want someone a husband as handsome as yours?¡± Suddenly a woman chuckled. I think she was with the pregnant woman who was in front of me. But I said nothing andughed a little. Peter cleared his throat, and he hadn¡¯t replied. It¡¯s good that my name was called inside so we said goodbye to them. The inside of the clinic is air-conditioned, but my sweat is dripping from my forehead because of nervousness. ¡°Rx . . .¡± Peter holds my hand tight. I nodded and waited for the doctor to speak. ¡°So, this is your first pregnancy?¡± she asked politely. ¡°Y-yes,¡± I murmured. ¡°Hmm, when was yourst menstruation?¡± ¡°I think,st month.¡± My voice was slowing down. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll perform an ultrasound for the baby. Pleasey on the bed carefully,¡± she said after standing up in her swivel chair. I followed what she said. I couldn¡¯t help but tremble as I held Peter¡¯s hand tightly without leaving my side. ¡°Wow, look at your baby!¡± the doctor told me excitedly. I nced at the monitor where I could see my baby. Even though it was small, I still could not stop the tears from falling in my eyes. ¡°Oh, surreal . . .¡± I sobbed. ¡°Yes, and you are seven weeks pregnant. Congrattions!¡± I turned my eyes to Peter. His jaw flexes continuously. I felt the tightness of his palm on me while staring at the monitor. ¡°It¡¯s natural for you to feel dizziness or even have a headache. Everything is part of pregnancy. Your body is adjusting and preparing for the pregnancy. So, the food we put in our bodies is sometimes rejected.¡± ¡°Nausea, swelling, and cramping are themon pain that you will encounter during your pregnancy. But it also disappears as the baby¡¯s delivery approaches,¡± she exined carefully. I nced at Peter, who was still quietly by my side. ¡°I will prescribe some vitamins for you and the baby,¡± she added before bowing to her working table. ¡°This is all the medicine you will buy. And don¡¯t stress yourself. You need to take some bed rest for weeks just to make sure your baby is safe. Your wife is also not allowed to be emotional.¡± She nced at Peter. ¡°Are you the father?¡± the doctor asked him seriously. I frowned. He told me that he knew the doctor, but the truth is he¡¯s not. ¡°Yess,¡± he confidently said. While on the road, Peter was just driving quietly. I don¡¯t have anything to ask at this point. I also do not want to question him why he said he was the father of my child because I knew he just wanted to protect me. ¡°Let¡¯s have lunch first before I take you home,¡± he said and parked the car at the restaurant. ¡°You need to eat healthy food to make the babye out healthy,¡± he said without looking at it. I nced at the food in front of me for a moment before looking back at him. ¡°Peter, you don¡¯t have to do this.¡± My voice carried a slight tremble. I was worried about what people might say to us, especially to him. His expression was still calm. The corner of his lips was slightly arched as if he was smiling. He doesn¡¯t seem to take what I¡¯m saying seriously. ¡°God, I¡¯m serious!¡± I blurted out. He suddenly put down his fork and slowlyid his back against the chair. ¡°I don¡¯t see anything wrong with that. Why don¡¯t you just let me take care of you? Besides, I am also concerned with the baby,¡± he said with a straight face. He continues to eat as if it is not a big deal for him. My heart rxed a little, but I still couldn¡¯t get rid of the worry. He is a young man and has his own life. I can¡¯t give him the responsibility that Lawrence should be doing. But I know at this point, he is the one I need. Gathering Gathering ¡°GOOD MORNING!¡± I smiled while facing the stove while cooking. ¡°Morning. How was your sleep?¡± I asked as I nced at him, he was still not wearing his shirt, so I chose to refocus on cooking. ¡°It was good. Hmm, breakfast looks good, huh?¡± he said huskily. I was shocked when I heard his voice behind my ear. I could feel the warmth of his breath under my skin. ¡°Y-yeah, I¡¯ll prepare bacon and sausages,¡± I replied casually, did not want to affect his presence behind me. ¡°Hmm, sounds delicious,¡± he mumbled. I close my mouth instinctively and swallowed the word I was about to spout. My forehead was also sweating because he seemed to be watching what I was doing. ¡°Can I use your shower?¡± he mumbled again. I nervously nodded. Thankful that he didn¡¯t speak anymore. I just heard the rush of the water from the shower, indicating that he was definitely bathing. I finished serving breakfast and suddenly heard a series of doorbell sounds from outside. I took off my apron for a moment before heading to the door to open it. My eyes shed with worry, and my lovely face drained of blood when I saw who¡¯s at the doorstep. He looks very ruthless and intense, causing me to be lost in my mind for a long while. ¡°Lawrence?!¡± I finally got the voice. ¡°Hi. Good morning!¡± he greeted. I immediately looked down at the flower he was holding. ¡°W-what are you doing here?!¡± I stammered. Immediately rebuilt the heart. I just turned to peek at Peter inside too. He nced quietly, walked in, and wandered around. ¡°Can we talk?¡± ¡°Hah! M-maybe some other time? I¡¯ll be busy the whole today. I¡¯m sorry,¡± I quickly said. I close my eyes. Damn! Why those fucking words stuttering from my mouth?! ¡°Margaux, we need to talk. I already talked to Dad, and¡ª¡± he paused. His face suddenly darkened, and he looked at me from behind. I quickly nced at Peter, wearing his fucking boxer shorts. Blood rushing throughout my veins, and right now, I feel like I wanted a heart attack. ¡°What is he doing here?!¡± Lawrence¡¯s voice is low and rumble. I lowered my head ashamedly. I could not speak. I wanted to hide into a hole at the moment to avert his gaze. ¡°You have a visitor. I¡¯ll get a towel first. I¡¯ll just get dressed,¡± Peter stated. I bit my lip hard as I felt his footsteps away. ¡°That bastard!¡± he asked with disbelief. His cold, piercing eyes look as if it¡¯s an eagle looking at its prey. ¡°What exactly are you doing here, Mr. Saavedra?¡± My voice cracked slightly, even my toes were trembling, but I remainedposed, even though I knew he wanted to eat me whole. He chuckled. ¡°No, nothing. I think we have nothing more to talk about,¡± he coldly said. He has already begun to step away. I just kept standing. I want to stop him and exin what he just saw. But I couldn¡¯t. I didn¡¯t even try to chase him. I made my final decisions. I will raise the child alone and starts something new. ¡°Won¡¯t you talk to him?¡± I have a glimpse of Peter at my side. He is now wearing his T-shirt and the pants that he worest night. ¡°I¡¯m a man too. I know what¡¯s running through his mind right now,¡± he added. I shook, slowly holding back the tears I had been holding back. It seems like now I feel more pain in exchange for my decision. I¡¯m letting him go, not because I don¡¯t love him. I¡¯m letting him go because loving him has no meaning if it¡¯s only pains me. I love him to the point it hurts. But it hurts more to hold on. And sometimes it has to be done, not mad, not upset, just done. *** ¡°BESTIE!¡± I widely smiled since I heard Cindy¡¯s voice on the other line. ¡°How are you? When are you going to visit me in Man?¡± I asked immediately. ¡°Sorry, bestie, Carrick and I n to open a new boutique here in San Simon, so it might take a while before I can visit you.¡± I pouted my lips. Iy down on the bed and caressed the bulge of my stomach. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you,¡± I just whispered over the phone. ¡°I know that. I miss you too, so I called you because you were invited to Jocko¡¯s birthday bash!¡± she excitedly said. ¡°Birthday bash?¡± I furrowed my brows. ¡°Yes, because they don¡¯t know how to contact you, so he just told me you were invited and Peter.¡± ¡°Uh, all right.¡± ¡°Hmm, do you want to spill something?¡± Her question is sarcastic. I was out of breath, I want to tell her about my pregnancy, but I was losing courage. I know she will not just sit and be silent to one side. ¡°No, nothing . . .¡± I refused. ¡°I heard you and Peter are already dating. Is it true?¡± I chuckled. ¡°We¡¯re good friends. Nothing special between the two of us.¡± ¡°Really? Well, if you are happy with each other¡¯spany, I do not mind if you have something,¡± she teasingly said. ¡°We¡¯re friends, you know me, right?¡± ¡°Okay, then, that¡¯s what you said.¡± And she dropped the call. At that point, I sank into deep thought. A great trembling arose in my heart when I thought about Lawrence. What if he finds out about my pregnancy? I shook my head down and tried to go to sleep. *** ¡°ARE YOU SURE about this?¡± Peter asked me confusingly. A few minutester, his car parked right in front of the Saavedra Resort, where Jocko¡¯s birthday party will be held. ¡°Yes,¡± I bravely said. Peter held my hand tightly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be at your side,¡± he said with thick of promise. Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. Even though I was relieved, I still couldn¡¯t help but be nervous. I walked on the beach with breath in my lungs, and the salty breeze whipped my hair. I watched the raging light and darkness courageously on my feet. The golden orbs rose from the horizon, spreading their magnificent rays of lights everywhere. From here, I could see the strong waves as if inviting me to swim. Even the trees greeted us when we arrived. ¡°Wee to Saavedra Resort!¡± I smiled at some staff who greeted us when we arrived. Peter went straight to the reception desk to check our room. While waiting, I couldn¡¯t help but look around. Although nothing is new but I a strong throbbing on my chest, knowing that Lawrence is around. ¡°Rest first, I¡¯ll just go upstairs to check my room,¡± Peter said while scanning the whole room. ¡°I¡¯m okay, Peter. I can handle myself,¡± I softly said before smiling. ¡°Just call me if there is a problem. I¡¯ll pick you up at seven, all right?¡± He spoke in a very natural tone. ¡°Thanks. But I¡¯m fine, I swear.¡± He did not speak again, although I knew he did not want to leave me yet. I just want to rest as well because of the long trip. I slumped on the soft bed as I crumpled every moment. I closed my eyes forcedly, I wanted to sleep, but my mind refused. Until a call from my cellphone woke me up. ¡°Bestie, where are you?!¡± I woke up because of Cindy¡¯s loud voice from the other line. ¡°We¡¯re here,¡± I said calmly. ¡°Oh, gosh! We¡¯re on our way. We¡¯re still here in San Felipe because Carrick is still taking care of some stuff. See youter, enjoy yourself, bye!¡± I drop the call and ready for the party tonight. Jocko鈥檚 Birthday Jocko¡¯s Birthday I¡¯M WEARING MY lc-colored dress paired with kitten heels, which is just right for me. My makeup is also simple, just a light pink lipstick with a blush on and my statement earrings. I justbed my hair and left some details below my ears. I smiled at the mirror with satisfaction. I can¡¯t deny that something has changed in my body, but I just didn¡¯t pay attention to it. As Peter promised, he picked me up before seven o¡¯clock. ¡°I love the way you look tonight,¡± Peter whispered in my ears. I smiled as I held his arm tightly. ¡°You too, you look good tonight,¡± I countered. ¡°Am I?¡± he chuckled slightly. He¡¯s really handsome wearing a back long sleeve polo. His muscles became more toned because of the folds from his hem to his elbow. His pants fit with him, and his furnish animal skin shoe was very impressive. I simply nod. ¡°Yes, you are, Monteverde!¡± I chucklingly said. As I went downstairs, a smile appeared on my lips when I saw Carrick and Cindy in the lobby. N?velDrama.Org owns this. ¡°Bestie!¡± She could not stop herself from meeting me with her tight hug. ¡°I missed you so much, bestie!¡± Her voice slightly cracked, and she wiped away the tears when I let go. ¡°I miss you too.¡± I smiled back. ¡°Looks like you missed each other too much, right?¡± Carrick said. He approached to give me a gentle kiss on the cheek. I just reciprocated with a small smile and how Cindy¡¯s spanking on my body. ¡°Bro, how are you?¡± Carrick turned to Peter as he greeted him for a moment. ¡°Hi, guys!¡± We both turned to the uing Samantha, Julia, Santino, Jeremy, and the couple Ally and William. I waved at them and nodded slightly. I chose to distance myself from them, but Allysa¡¯s critical eyes bothered me. ¡°Margaux, it looks like something happened to you.¡± she narrows her gaze on me. My lips pressed together so did the tremble on my heart. ¡°Uh, maybe it¡¯s just a bit stressful at work,¡± I answered quietly. She no longer spoke, but I knew she was watching my every move. And suddenly, Peter snaked his arms around my waist. ¡°Better yet, let¡¯s go straight to the party. I¡¯m sure Jocko is already waiting for us.¡± We headed to the pavilion, where the gathering was. I can hear the music ying as I stand there. The lights dimmed like a night sky. Even the smoke around seemed to greet us. Jocko, the birthday boy, immediately greeted us. He¡¯s wearing a simple polo shirt with ck pants and shoes. We greeted him one by one as some handed a gift to him. ¡°Woah! Thank you! Thank you!¡± he chuckled delightfully. He guided us inside, where there were already many people in the middle of the dance floor. The food arrived immediately at our table. The variety of grilled fish, steaks, mouth-watering sds and cakes on the table is glittering in my eyes. I suddenly spat, so I could not control myself. I filled my te with other kinds of seafood and sweets. I also picked up a strawberry float. ¡°Where¡¯s my gift?¡± Jocko asked Samantha briefly while rubbing her shoulder. ¡°Do you think I will give you a gift?!¡± Samantha rolls her eyes but can¡¯t hide the redness on her face. Jocko leaned closer to him and hugged him tightly. ¡°Bad girl . . .¡± he murmured and buried his face on his neck. There they were teased and asked for a kiss. I just silently watched them while I was busy eating my crayfish. ¡°Take it easy, Margaux,¡± Peter whispered to me. I just shrugged and continued eating. At the same time, they are still focused on the two who granted what they wanted. Jocko looked down, gave Samantha a few kisses on the lips, chin, and neck. ¡°Woah! Happy birthday!¡± The shouting and cheers almost caught my attention. I paused for a moment to apud and refocused on the chocte cake. ¡°Margaux, are you sure you can eat all that?¡± I looked up at Cindy before smiling. ¡°Yes, I do.¡± I fed myself again with delicious food. I know they are confused, but I just can¡¯t really stop eating. ¡°Wow! Do you really eat all of that?!¡± Allysa eximed and looked at me with so much investigation. I cleared my throat andid my back on the chair. I still wanted to eat, but I was suddenly embarrassed about the look they gave me. I took a deep breath and then slowly released it. ¡°Uh, the food is good.¡± I had no intention of ¡°You look really different now,¡± Julia whispered to my side and nced at my reaction. I swallowed, but I felt it was hard for me to do that. So I gave it a frugal smile. ¡°What are you guys waiting for? Let¡¯s dance!¡± Allysa mmed on the table and gently pulled William¡¯s hand. ¡°Wait, I¡¯m in!¡± Julia quickly stood up, as did Jeremy and Santino. At that point, I calmed down, but I raised my head to Cindy, who gave me a serious look. I tried to smile, but I couldn¡¯t, so I quickly averted my eyes. ¡°The big boss is here!¡± Jocko announced with a big smile on his face. ¡°Happy birthday,¡± a familiar voice abruptly resounded in the evening wind. I nce up at him. Under the dim light, I could see a man dressed in a luxurious suit and a gentleman with apleteck of human emotions. However, it does not hide the factuality that he was charming, ssy, and definitely hotter than before. And I had to admit the fact that he captivates me. It was as if I had lost myself for a moment, and my eyes were tired of it. Not knowing, I held my gaze too long. ¡°Hi, Elliesse!¡± Jocko said again. I cleared my throat, arms wrapped around my folded legs loosely. Those who came just ignored it. ¡°Here¡¯s our gift for you. I hope you like it.¡± Elliesse sweetly said to Jocko. ¡°Oh, thank you! Please take a seat!¡± Eventually, I found the food in front of me, but I still had no appetite even if I touched it. So I tossed the foodzily and didn¡¯t bother to engage in the conversation. ¡°So when is the wedding?¡± Cindy asked them with a hint of prying. ¡°We will soon be announcing the details. Lawrence still has a lot of work to do, and I am finishing my The smile on her lips did not escape from me when I turned my gaze. My eyebrows draw apart, not wanting to beat under her gaze. ¡°Great, I¡¯m excited!¡± Cindy blurted out. I quickly turned to Cindy. I could not help but frown at her. And I fired her a deviltry looked. What the hell is she talking about?! I want to think twice if she is really my best friend! Before I lost myself, I felt Peter support me on my shoulder. ¡°So, how¡¯s the feeling that you will be tied to Elliesse?¡± Jocko blows it up to Lawrence. ¡°No pressure at all. I haven¡¯t thought about that much yet,¡± he said in a deep hoarse voice. Heart Throbs Heart Throbs I LOOKED UP at him, and Lawrence gave me a nk stare. His expression was hard to read. I don¡¯t know if I should be happy with what he said, but I failed to see the sparkle in his eyes as before. His handsome face was cold without a trace of humanity. I immediately felt apprehensive and anxious. I thought he already canceled the engagement? Then what are they talking about? ¡°Really? So you¡¯re not sure about Elliesse yet?!¡± Cindy eximed. She seemed even more surprised by what he said. ¡°Oops, I¡¯m sorry!¡± She did apologize after and fired back at me. ¡°Well, we¡¯re not in a hurry. We enjoy each other¡¯spany, right, babe?¡± Elliesse grabbed his arm and looked up at his sudden seriousness. He did not answer, but instead, he sipped the ss he was holding. He leaned back on the couch and just let Elliesse hug him. I swallow hard, I want to look away, but there seems to be a ma trying to get my eyes back on him. I sighed defeatedly. What is wrong with you, Margaux? I want to rebuke myself because I can¡¯t help but do that every time his lips open. ¡°How about the two of you? We heard that you are getting along?¡± Carrick asked Peter. ¡°We¡¯re dating,¡± Peter confidently said and held my hand at the table. I swallowed again, and a strong heat rose beneath my cold eyes. I didn¡¯t dare to speak because it¡¯s true, we are dating.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. ¡°It looks like they have more there,¡± Lawrence well annunciates and mocked, an insulting mocked. The whole room felt shut-in. I got cold from sitting down, I wanted to refute what he said and say nothing happened with Peter and me, but my heart was so tired that I didn¡¯t want to speak. ¡°Really?! Maybe you two will get married earlier!¡± Carrick nodded again. ¡°Margaux and I still have a lot of ns. Actually, we n to travel together abroad,¡± Peter dered. He seemed certain of what he was saying. ¡°Is that true, bestie?!¡± Cindy rolled her eyes at me. I cough shortly, and even I was shocked by what Peter said. Because he never mentioned it to me once. ¡°Yeah, we already n those two,¡± I said casually. I turned to look at Peter, who had a wide smile on his face. I also couldn¡¯t help but nce at Lawrence. His face was still warm and vicious, but unfortunately, I couldn¡¯t make out his emotion from those dark eyes. ¡°I also want to travel with you, babe.¡± Elliesse pouted her lips and entangled her arms around Lawrence¡¯s firm midriff body. I rolled my eyes and focused again on the food. Is this some kind of a joke or what? That was so hypothetically funny, huh! ¡°Sure . . . once we¡¯re get married,¡± Lawrence answered. I closed my eyes in despair and dug my nails into my palm. I am strangled in pain. His words are like a dagger trying to touch my heart. I breathe slowly, trying to alleviate the pain brought by what he said. ¡°Hey, are you alright?¡± Peter asked me gently. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m just going to the bathroom.¡± I stood up straight and walked the path to the bathroom. I could feel my muscles trembling as I walked away. Every step feels like a nail bomb exploding in my heart. There is no stopping the pain with every step away. I shake my head and shut my eyes firmly in front of the mirror. No, this is not you, Margaux. You¡¯re a strong woman. You do not just send your emotions. You don¡¯t give up easily. You fight for what is right. One by one, I shed tears at the corner of my eye. Even if I stop it, it¡¯s toote because it will drip I also can¡¯t help but think of the words Lawrence uttered earlier. If so, will the marriage really continue? Isn¡¯t this what I want to happen? I should be happy, but I don¡¯t think I can do that. I can¡¯t be happy for both of them. I was immediately relieved when the door suddenly opened. I swallowed hard when I saw Elliesse, hurriedly went inside and cing down her purse carefully at my side. She straightened the loose hair before facing me. She wrapped her arms around her chest confidently. ¡°So, how are you?¡± she asked with a hint of humor. ¡°I¡¯m good,¡± I quickly said. I also quickly parted my hair and distracted myself by rummaging through what was in the purse I was carrying. ¡°You are? You look like you are not okay.¡± She stared straight into my two eyes. I lower down myshes, not ready to lose the battle. Her smirked grew while fishing around something in her purse. ¡°Come on! There are no people around us. You can take off your mask,¡± she bluntly said, then put on some lipstick. ¡°Excuse me?¡± She shakes her head, ¡°Didn¡¯t you heard about the news? You are famous for being stic,¡± she used and gave me a loudugh. I scoffed, ¡°Sorry, I haven¡¯t heard about it because I don¡¯t like to live by gossiping about other people¡¯s lives,¡± I bluff and shrug a bit. She stoppedughing. The smile on her lips instantly vanished, so I took a step closer to him. ¡°Why don¡¯t you mind your own business instead of spreading fake news, huh?!¡± I sarcastically said. She was obviously surprised by what I said but recovered immediately. High forehead to face me. She eyed me boldly and lifted her lips crustily before she spoke. ¡°I will not stop what you said, ¡¯cause I do not stomp down to your level. And may I remind you that you will never win because I already have him,¡± she mere whisper at my ears. I pursed my lips. I could not speak immediately because of the sharp words she released. ¡°By the way, just put your mask back on! It looks like you¡¯ll need to wear that again when you go back inside,¡± she added. Without saying a word, she turned her back on me and left. Again I was left hanging and speechless at the same time. *** I CAME OUT of the bathroom as if I had nothing to do with myself, nothing entered my mind now but the child I was going to give birth with. I drew a deep breath, pinning my back against the hall. I closed my eyes tightly to relieve the pain in my heart, but the more I thought about it, the deeper the wound is. ¡°Margaux?¡± I quickly turned to Cindy. I immediately cleared my thoughts and smiled at her. ¡°Is there a problem? Peter was waiting for you.¡± She gently stroked my arm. ¡°Uh, no, there are quite a few people in the bathroom,¡± I trailed off. I started to step on my feet to escape her critical eyes, but she stopped my arm. ¡°Wait, Margaux.¡± I looked up and closed my eyes tightly before facing her. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Cindy. You have nothing to worry about me,¡± I said, then tried to smile. ¡°You¡¯re not.¡± Conversation Conversation HER SOFT HAND came down to hold me tight. I bowed my head fearfully, unable to meet her stares. ¡°Margaux, I¡¯m your best friend! Why do you have to keep a secret from me?¡± she muttered, traces of suppressed tears on her face is visible. I shook my head defiantly. ¡°Of course, you¡¯re my best friend!¡± I chuckled. I chose to avoid her critical look. ¡°But you never consider me as one,¡± she said, mixed with a frown. I lowered my head even more. I know where this conversation is going. I don¡¯t have to deny it anymore because it looks like she already knows everything. I shook my head, trying to stop the tears from flowing, but it was like a faucet flowing down my cheek. ¡°Bestie . . .¡± He hugged me tightly and gently stroked my back as I cried on his shoulder. ¡°Damn that bastard!¡± she cursed while rubbing my back gently. ¡°We have to do something! He must be responsible for that child!¡± I violently shook my head. ¡°No! He doesn¡¯t have to know my condition!¡± She grabbed both of my shoulders tight. ¡°Are you out of your mind? That bastard screwed you. We have to do something! He just can¡¯t escape what he did to you!¡± ¡°I said, no! She¡¯s getting married soon, and I don¡¯t want my pregnancy to be a reason for him not to continue,¡± I said, firm and straight. ¡°What?!¡± She furrowed her brows, obviously not paying attention to what I was saying. ¡°I can raise this child alone.¡± I do not know if ites out of my mouth correctly. ¡°But you both love each other. Additional to that, you will have a child,¡± she insists. I closed my eyes firmly after shaking my head. If I did what she said, I might not have made any difference from Lester and Sarah. ¡°No, I can raise the child alone!¡± I still stubbornly refuse. ¡°What if he will hold you ountable? What if he calls off the wedding once he finds out about your pregnancy?¡± How can I be sure that he will ept the child? It is even more believable that Peter and I are now in a rtionship. I shook my head down. ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do . . .¡± I sobbed. She sighed frustratedly. ¡°No matter what your decision is, I¡¯m always here for you.¡± I nodded, wiping away the dripping tears. In the end, she did not force me to do what she wanted, but I still did not put aside everything she told me. ¡°Better yet, fix yourself, and let¡¯s go back inside. I¡¯m sure they are looking for us.¡± *** WHILE EVERYONE IS busy with their drink, Cindy and I sat quietly in the chair provided for us and watched the band start singing. ¡°You¡¯rete. Are you okay?¡± Peter whispered in my ears.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. Instead of answering, I turned my eyes to Lawrence. His dark eyes remained cold and mysterious. I did not know what was running through his mind as he stared at me. I slowly averted my eyes and looked up at Peter. ¡°There are just a lot of people in the restroom,¡± I exined, and he just nodded. I breathed a sigh of relief without looking at Lawrence. I just focused on the ying band. I shifted on my seat ufortably and took a swig on my strawberry float cooly. I wanted to stop, but I was betrayed by myself when I nced at him again. The beautiful sound that emanates from the singing band and the cool breeze simultaneously refreshes my skin. I stared up at him,pletely infatuated with his mouth, his brown eyes, and the way his jaw protrudes slightly. How can he be so wless and dreadfully hot? The way his lips curled around the rim of the ss and the way his one dimple crinkles. My heart jumped when he stared back. I emit a tiny gasp when I saw the familiar ze in his eyes. I wanted to bow, but I did not, and I thought of smiling at him. Fuck! I wanted to find a crack in the ground and dive in. I also quickly covered my lips because of the tightness of his jaw at what I did. ¡°Love, shall we dance?¡± Cindy caressed her husband, Carrick. He immediately agreed and pulled her to the hall. I feel like I was sealed from sitting when there were only six of us left on the table. Jocko and Samantha are enjoying their chat over the food as if they were the only people around when ites to talking. Until Peter said next to me, ¡°I¡¯m just taking a short restroom. I¡¯ll be back in a minute.¡± I swallowed before I nodded at him. I even followed him with my look, but he quickly disappeared from my sight due to the crowd. ¡°Elliesse?!¡± We raised our heads on the woman who spoke and approached our table. ¡°Oh, Bettina!¡± Elliesse stood up to kiss the one who came. She also immediately introduced Lawrence as her fianc¨¦. ¡°After years of breakup, you really are the ones who willst forever!¡± the girl told them. I bit my lower lip and fixed my gaze on the food. ¡°Yes, and I believe that first love never dies!¡± Elliesse eximed. I turned my gaze at Lawrence. It seemed that he¡¯s not interested in what she¡¯s talking about. ¡°That¡¯s great! Oh, by the way, Nichs was looking for you because he wants to talk to you.¡± Elliesse immediately turned to Lawrence and whispered something. He gently stroked thetter¡¯s shoulder before facing us. ¡°Excuse me, guys! I have to talk to someone. I¡¯ll be back in a minute,¡± she said goodbye to Jocko and Samantha. She also looked at me and gave me a warning look. ¡°Go ahead, take your time.¡± Samantha pushed her away while smiling. I secretly smiled because Elliesse frowned at what Samantha said. Without saying a word, she stood up and pulled the femalepanion to leave. I just quietly followed them with the thought that they would definitely leave the Pavilion. ¡°It¡¯s better if we just dance,¡± Jocko said to Samantha. She didn¡¯t even hesitate when Jocko led her to the dance floor. It was toote when I realized it was just the two of us at the table. Lawrence continued to look unwaveringly at my face that made my heart throbs. *** I SHIFTED AGAIN to my seat and ignored my heart that was beating ufortably. Not wanting to be affected by his dark stare so I just drank my strawberry float. He leaned his back against the couch manly before he spoke. ¡°How are you?¡± he asked after a beat of silence. ¡°Good! I¡¯m good.¡± I bit my inner lip. I can¡¯t help but scold myself for the quick response. ¡°Good to hear that,¡± he nod, continuing his drink, but his eyes remained dark and intense. ¡°Uh, how was your preparation for the wedding?¡± I said, I almost whispered in the air. ¡°Yeah, there¡¯s no reason for me not to continue getting married, right?¡± he said under his breath. His face is bing strange and unreadable. He drank the wine again in his ss. I sighed silently in my heart and mutter, ¡°Well, congrats!¡± He Owns Me He Owns Me HE CHUCKLED SEXILY, then shook his head. I tasted to convey that I was no longer interested in what he had to say. ¡°You make it sounds so easy, huh?¡± he said sharply. Panic shed across my eyes. Trying desperately to hide my feelings, andposed myself and smiled vigorously. ¡°Yes,¡± I muttered. I was shocked when he dropped the ss he was holding in front of me. His eyes glistened in the dark, and it made my heart tremble. He nods after a long dying moment. ¡°The wedding doesn¡¯t have a schedule yet, maybe next year, or it depends on my mood,¡± he said after shrugging. My lips twitched at the drawn pain. ¡°Or maybe, it won¡¯t continue.¡± I lift my chin immediately so his eyes met mine. His facial expression still does not change. It was always dark and emotionless. ¡°Let¡¯s go find some other ce to talk,¡± he said with authority. To my great surprise, I did not immediately recover. He quickly touched my wrist to stand up. At the same time as I took a step, my heart beats fast. I could not struggle, even though I knew he was just slowing down as we made our way out. We just continue to walk until we reach an ancestral house. He just let go of my hand when we got inside. I nce around at my surrounding, as before, I could not help but marvel at what I saw. The windows were wide to provide maximum fresh air and sunlight. The top floor has a floating stairway. The polished floor is really stunning with excellent wood. I remained silent, unable to process the wave of emotions overwhelming me. I want to close my eyes to what I saw, but I restrained myself and violently turned to Lawrence. ¡°What are we doing here?!¡± I immediately opened my mouth, and now he is in front of the counter table made of smooth nks. ¡°Let¡¯s have a drink first.¡± He swirled the wine bottle sexily and immediately stepped closer to me with all his might. I couldn¡¯t help but stare as the distance between the two of us narrowed. He stopped a few steps away from me. The scent of his cologne drifts in through my nostrils, a scent I¡¯m quickly bing addicted to. ¡°Here, drink it,¡± he ordered huskily. I epted the ss but was unable to drink. I saw him sweeping thest drop of wine passionately. For a second, I stood frozen, hypocritical. If his eyes had not returned to me, I would not blink. Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. I slowly sipped on the ss of wine and rack my brain, thinking of a topic for conversation. ¡°Uh, your wine is good,¡± I murmured. He lowered down his head and gaze at me intently. ¡°It¡¯s a ckberry wine. Actually, this is one of my favorites.¡± I nodded, not wanting to escte the issue I opened up to. ¡°Thanks, but I have to go, Mr. Saavedra. Maybe Peter is already looking for me.¡± He obviously did not like what he heard. His brows furrowed as his mouth turned grim. ¡°I don¡¯t like him for you!¡± he cursed sharply. I cocked my brows in surprise, wanting to deny his dark stare but to be amazed at what I saw. ¡°Break up with him. He is not good for you.¡± His face was still warm, even his tone gentler than usual. ¡°What?!¡± I said hoarsely. My forehead furrowed even more, almost unable to believe what I heard. I had to take a deep breath before I could speak again. ¡°Mr. Saavedra, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s not good that you are interfering in my personal life.¡± ¡°I know you, Margaux, I know you have no feelings for that man,¡± he said with finality, lips settled into a mocking smirked. ¡°How can you be so sure?¡± Iughed and said and showed that I was not affected by it. ¡°You really asking me that question?¡± He scowls. His eyes were so dark. I felt like I was looking into an endless stretch of the midnight sky. ¡°The truth is . . . I like him,¡± I mere whisper to him. ¡°Damn that bastard!¡± he angrily said. He looked at me with ck eyes drilling into mine. I was drowning. But I still face him highly. ¡°You have not right to do so, but you have the right to marry another person.¡± I have a sharp usation. ¡°You know I¡¯ve made up my mind about that. I¡¯m choosing you!¡± My breath evaporated from my chest. I felt my two cheeks heat up at what he said. So, they only did a show earlier? ¡°And now tell me that man is not mediating to you, because if he is . . .¡± he paused and then exhale sharply, seemingly disliking what was running through his mind. ¡°What if there is? What are you going to do?¡± I said, head lifted toward him to show that I was serious about what I said. The horsugh rolled out of him like the waves on a long shallow beach, making his shoulders shake. ¡°You can¡¯t be serious about it,¡± he insists. I lift my chin, wanting to show I¡¯m telling the truth that he can¡¯t seem to ept. His smile faded from his lips. He narrows his gaze on me, his big hand settling on both of my shoulders. ¡°You¡¯re lying . . .¡± ¡°No, I am not. I like him, and you can not question how I feel for Peter. He is the only one there for me and ready to love me unconditionally!¡± I yelled, my voice crack, tears gathered at the corner of my eyes. ¡°I can also do that. I love you, and I am ready to fight for you.¡± I shortened his hand to my feeble shoulders and stood in front of him boldly. ¡°Yes, you can, but you couldn¡¯t, Rence, because you are a coward!¡± I raised my voice, tears welling up in my eyes. ¡°You confessed about your feelings with me, but you can¡¯t fight for that bullsh*t love!¡± ¡°Because you couldn¡¯t let me, Margaux! You always drive me away. I wanted to fight for you, but how can I do that if you yourself give up?!¡± he said with so much frustration. I swallowed, so I was the one who was wrong here? How dare him using me of that? ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Saavedra, but I really have to go.¡± I reached for the wine ss, and I quickly turned my back on it, stepping on my feet to open the door, but his palm stopped me from leaving. ¡°Not so fast, Margaux. I couldn¡¯t let you out of this fucking room damn easily.¡± I heard his husky voice teasing my earlobe. I shut my eyes firmly. I am now caught in his web, and I couldn¡¯t withstand it any longer, fuck! I shook my head, unable to ept the gradual weakening of the knees. ¡°Please . . .¡± I almost whisper. But again, I felt his warm palms on my shoulders. His palms were warm but soft in mine. My heart thumped erratically, my mouth was dry, and my tongue was swollen. I feel like I¡¯m out of breath at any moment. ¡°Just for a second, let me tell you the words I badly wanted to say . . .¡± Her Ace Her Ace HE¡¯S WALKING FORWARD and pushing me to the door, tightening my grasp, but not too tightly. ¡°What are you doing?!¡± I still managed to struggle despite everything. His eyes were beyond wild now. I don¡¯t know how to stop him when I feel his hot breath on my cheek. ¡°God, I missed you so much, sweetie,¡± he softly said. There was a taunting edge to his voice and a shiver of a golden light race down my spine. ¡°Rence . . .¡± I swallow his breathy sighs. It was toote before I could even struggle. His lips covered mine, and the world seemed to disappear around us. I can feel myself tremble. My heart was beating like it was going to explode any moment. His fingers were tangling in my long chocte hair; his body presses mine. He locked me behind the door, and my onlypanion was his big chest. He kissed me very eagerly, passionately, and burning. I can¡¯t count how many times my back hit the door because he pulled up my hip, and he pushed back again. When his forehead touches mine, I find myself wanting more. My heart immediately rebelled because of its rapid cessation. He sighed sharply, seemingly holding back what he was supposed to do. His gaze dropped to me as we both chased each other. As I stare into his deep endless ck eyes, I know I¡¯ve fallen for him as deep as his pitiless ck eyes. ¡°Margaux . . .¡± His voice is a little gravelly with the hint of honeyed. Damn, he called my name sexily. I felt even weaker and more anxious to lose myself. Before I make a protest, Lawrence turns me to the door, and his hand slides down my waist roughly, without a trace of humanity. He quickly took off the dress I was wearing and freely caressed his hand there. I clung tightly while my two palms pressed against the door. He cups my cheeks from behind, touching my ears with a deep voice. ¡°I got it . . .¡± he whispered in a husky voice. My two cheeks blushed when I realized what he meant. And his fingers are already travelling down inside my panty, and I pull it down easily until his fingers tease my clit. Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. I couldn¡¯t help but moan. My lips parted with the sensation he brought to me. He makes me feel possessed and somehow intensely erotic. An instant lust exploded inside me, and I am breathing hard. He was burying his face on my neck, where he nts a kiss. ¡°I badly wanted you, Margaux,¡± he said in a low, sexy sound. ¡°You have no idea of the decisions I have to make just to be with you,¡± he enunciates. Even if I want to speak, I can¡¯t do it because what he says does not register in my mind. My brain is busy with what he does to me. He slid his fingers inside me. He bit me hard on the lips because of what he did. Heat radiates through my body, and I am panting, moans in a low, sexy sound. My sex clenches around his fingers. I feel the weakness of my two knees, and the door is not enough to hold, so I have no choice but to lean on his wide chest. In the next second, he turned me around and pushed me against the door. No word came out of me¡ª not even one. Now I¡¯m breathing his warm breath, and my fingers curl around his T-shirt. ¡°Once . . .¡± I whisper. His hand held my waist while the other snags up my hips. It became a way for me to hold on to his clothes more. He lowers his head and whisper. ¡°I¡¯m not going to make love to you, nor going to fuck you. Because I¡¯m going to own you . . .pletely.¡± His voice was rummaging all my veins in my body. I felt my heart was about to leap out from my throat. I tried to open my mouth, but he moves his head closer and kiss me passionately and demanding. I moan into his mouth, giving his tongue an opening and slicing past my lips. He seems like an expert on how to y inside my mouth. He also freely licked my chest, at the same time crawling delicate kisses on my neck. He shoved me up to the door without my approval and wrapped my legs around his waist arrogantly. I felt his hard and huge manhood putting in my entrance. I looked up as I bit my lip hard. I was struggling to find sanity despite everything. But I almost shook my knee the next time he did. His cock presses between my legs and all my cravings and temptation fill my senses. He entered me and buried himself proudly. I couldn¡¯t help but hug his wide shoulder, and because of that, he gained more strength. Like what he says, he owns me, and I am drowning. I desperately want to find the top, but my pleasure weighs me down when he pushes hard, and I sore the most satisfying pain that makes me quiver uncontrobly. ¡°Ah!¡± I said in my convulsive tone. I bang my head to my left and right, back and forth, with every thrust of his swelling cock. I feel his hands cup my backside tenderly. He paused for a moment and violently let out a heavy breath in my neck. ¡°D*mn,¡± he said under his breath. He stopped his movement and didn¡¯t make any mistakes. But I¡¯m in the middle of my orgasm, so I pushed myself down and pounded hard. I hugged him very tightly and moved my hips with all my might. ¡°Ah, d*mn it!¡± he said in sharp intonation. He stopped me from moving while he¡¯s holding me too tightly. My body protests, but his big and strong hand didn¡¯t let me move an inch. I felt my back to the door, and he lifted me effortlessly as we remained in that position. Everything is a blur to me now. Nothing is running through my mind right now, but only this moment between us. And here I go again, losing myself control, seems to have forgotten what I was fighting for. While I was still looking for myself, he seemed to be in a hurry because of his quick ascent into the darkroom. He slowlyid my back on the soft, warm bed, pulling himself out gently. I could not help but be ashamed of myself because of the hip lift caused by the protest. He smiled cockily and left me a hot, dizzy kiss before he drew away. He has already begun to take off the rest of his veil. I bite down my lips, watching him doing it in front of my very own eyes. He was sexy, hot, and genuinely the most gorgeous man I¡¯ve ever known. Darkness does not prevent me from seeing how beautiful his gorgeous body looks. I let out a deep sigh. D*mn it. He¡¯s totally splendidly, magnificently hot, Margaux! He is already kneeling in front of me,pletely naked. I swallowed, still not ready to see him like this. Then he moved closer to me, trying to undress me like a precious child, and I am giving him the power to do that. He has no difficulty removing thest veil I have. Paris Paris HE LOOKED DOWN at me; eyes were a shade of acorns, a muscle in his jaw flexes. I do not know when this burning stare of his on me will heal. They glow with humor and yfulness that sent a shiver down my spine. And here I am, cowardly losing. He grabbed both of my legs, spreading them wide, then he thrusts again. Our eyes lock for a second. ¡°You were on the dead-end, Sweetie . . .¡± he said huskily. I didn¡¯t bother to answer. Instead, I wrapped my legs around his waist tightly and gave him wide ess to my wet mound. I moaned in pleasure, and I arch into him, wanting to bnce his movement on my surface. He¡¯s driving me wild, and he firmly pulls me against his erection. ¡°Ah!¡± I pant seductively. I bit my lip to meet every thrust of him and dig into his readiness with all my heart. He elerated even more on my surface. His hand was caressing and squeezing my peak. I shudder in pleasure, his touch is heavy, and he thrusts harder until he explodes his final juices inside me. Our heavy breathing is the only thing that can be heard in the room. He slowlyy down next to me but immediately pulled me to hug me tightly. He lowered his head and pecked a kiss on my head. ¡°I love you, sweetheart.¡± He kissed my forehead goodnight, and I cuddle into his arms. *** A FEW MOMENTS passed, but my spirit was still awake. I do not know what to think because many things are running through my mind now. One of those is the thing between Lawrence and me. I looked at him. His low heavy breathing makes my heart throbs harder, but at the same time, it was a beet red. Oh! Margaux, why do you have to feel this way over and over again? Despite everything, why do I still feel my heart beating fast for him? Maybe because he¡¯s the father of my child, and nothing can change even if he marries someone else. That¡¯s right! I have made a decision; I will confess my pregnancy to him tomorrow. I will admit that this child I¡¯m carrying is his. I will not think about what will happen to his engagement with Elliesse. What¡¯s important now is the two of us and our future child. I was in such a state of mind when I heard a series of knocks on the door from the outside. I looked up at Lawrence¡¯s face. He was still in his deep sleep. And I decided that what I really needed to do was learn how to do it right. I quickly got dressed and fixed myself before opening the door. But to my surprise, the woman with her raven eyes and her furrowed brows appeared in front of me. ¡°Elliesse . . .¡± *** THE DARKNESS OF the night sky had turned into daylight, and the warm glow of the sun filtered in. In in sight, I could see therge Eiffel Tower of Paris, France. An indication that the ne we were traveling in was about tond. ¡°Ready?¡± a soft tone whisper in my ears gently. I looked at him and gave him a sweet smile. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m excited!¡± I turned my attention to where the ne willnd. He let out a long sigh before sitting down next to me, so I nced at him again. My handnded on the hard surface of his hip and looked up at him calmly. ¡°Peter, I¡¯m okay.¡± I smiled at him again. He leaned closer to me. Hisrge manly hand settled on my cheek. ¡°I know you¡¯re not.¡± He looked at me with his pale blue eyes. I know he was not happy with my sudden decision. He tried to stop me a few times, but I dared to leave the country. That same night after Elliesse and I talked, I booked a flight to France. After all, there is no reason for me to stay there. ¡°Elliesse . . .¡± I stiffened from where I was standing because of the kind of look she showed to me. ¡°Is my fianc¨¦ there?¡± she straightforwardly asks. I swallow. I cannot answer immediately. I feel like I¡¯m a mistress caught in his wife¡¯s actions. I close my eyes for a second and breathing in steadily. ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s asleep.¡± I saw how her eyes zed over at what she heard. Her lovely sweet jelly face is turning to be a real monster. ¡°How dare you?!¡± she spat out. She was about to step in and tried to get inside, but I quickly blocked my body. Her brows draw apart, and I¡¯m sure her blood began to boil. I confidently crossed my arms around my chest, and I lift my chin in front of her. ¡°As far as I know, this is not your room,¡± I say steadily. ¡°How dare you spout that nonsense?! Who are you to stop me? My fianc¨¦ is inside, did you hear? My fianc¨¦!¡± She emphasized the word with a louder voice, attracting the attention of other people. Iugh a bit, not wanting to send feelings. I arranged for us, towering her with my height. She looked up slightly at me because of my height. I secretly celebrated her withdrawal, but she did not want to lose as I knew she was ready to fight. ¡°Just your fianc¨¦ . . . heard it?¡± I say, then I throw her a mockingugh. I saw her eyes narrow even more at what I said. She was shaking in anger. At any moment, I thought she would start a fight, but I did not move. I do not even move an inch. I showed that I could fight her. ¡°You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re saying because even if you love each other, he will still choose me in the end because the ace is mine!¡± she said in a rough voice. I frowned at what I heard, ¡°What do you mean?¡± My heart started pounding because she didn¡¯t seem to be joking with what she was saying. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant!¡± I held my breath for a long time as I waited for the pain to subside. A minute ago, I was ready to fight her, but now, my knees suddenly soften. She raised her head and looked at me full of sarcasm. ¡°You heard it. I¡¯m pregnant. You probably won¡¯t want to lose the father of the child I¡¯m carrying, right?¡± she said sarcastically. I soak up her words for a beat second. My heart soared. I can barely summon the energy to deal with her. ¡°Aside from that, we hold the biggest share in theirpany. Simple as it is! If the marriage does not continue, I can easily withdraw my share, and theirpany can lose everything!¡± I instinctively close my mouth and swallowed her word, leaving my heart aching. So, this is it. I¡¯m done. Whether I want to fight for my rights is not possible. I was devastated, and I feel raw. All the ns I had for my future child with Lawrence suddenly came to naught because of what I heard. Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. Is there nothing more painful here? Am I at my limit? Can I still endure the pain? I took a deep breath to stop the tears from forming in my eyes. And I seeded. I stillposed myself in front of her while wearing a smirk on her face. ¡°So, if I were you, you better get out of my sight. Forever!¡± she said with finality. Work Work I SQUIRMED AS I felt the nending. Against the inside, I had to do it for the silence of all¡ªeven Mommy was against my decision. But I have to forget Lawrence. N?velDrama.Org owns this. ¡°Margaux, hija!¡± I looked up at Mommying inside my office. She was carrying a bag that she hadid on my table. ¡°Mom, what are you doing here?¡± I stood up to hug her and kiss her on the cheek. She immediately grabbed my two shoulders and hovered over me. ¡°I¡¯m fine. But you, are you sure you¡¯re okay, hija?¡± Her voice showed intense concern. I swallowed hard. I haven¡¯t slept since I ran away from Saavedra Resort. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Mom . . .¡± I thought the words woulde out smoothly, but it cracked a little. She frowned, then stared at me intently. ¡°I¡¯m your mother. You can¡¯t hide anything from me. I know there¡¯s a problem, Margaux.¡± She looked down on a bit bulge of my stomach. I tried my best to stay cool in front of her, but I couldn¡¯t. Gradually my shoulders dropped. I thought I could do it alone. I thought I was strong enough to ovee it on my own, but I¡¯m wrong. A pearl of tear escaped my eyes. I hugged my mother and didn¡¯t speak for a while. I don¡¯t think I have to say everything because she seems to have an idea I am going through right now. ¡°Oh, sweetheart . . .¡± She quickly stroked my back and hair repeatedly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mom. I am a failure,¡± I whimpered. ¡°Of course not, sweetheart!¡± she said in a softer tone. I shook and continued to cry on her shoulders. I do not feel sorry for what happened to me. I regret it because I think I did not repay the sacrifices she and Dad made for me. And what¡¯s worse is the scandal I could be involved in if Lawrence and Elliesse¡¯s marriage continues. ¡°Have you tried to talk to him?¡± Mom asked in her calmer voice. I shook my head and bowed slightly. What for? Elliesse is also pregnant, and I am sure he will choose Elliesse instead of me because she is destined to be his wife. ¡°Lawrence needs to know that you are pregnant. You cannot keep the child forever, Margaux,¡± she said and embraced my two hands. ¡°No, Mom! He agreed to marry someone else. She is also pregnant. I do not want to ruin a family.¡± I know how painful it is to be left behind by the person I love. So who am I to do that to Elliesse? ¡°Your daddy needs to know this! I¡¯m sure he will not allow you to be aggrieved,¡± she continued. ¡°I want to raise the child alone. Please, Mom, tell Dad that I¡¯m fine. I have already booked a flight to Paris. There, I will try to get up again and raise the child alone.¡± ¡°But you need my help. I should be there, especially when you gave birth,¡± she insists. I shook my head again. ¡°Please, I can make it on my own,¡± I assured her. Dad talked to me that night. He also did not object to my decision. Even if they want to apany me to Paris, I strongly refused it. We have a business they need to run here. Eventually, they have done nothing but support what I want. ¡°Here wee!¡± Peter¡¯s purr voice echoed at my head. I quickly went back to myself and nced at the some-story building where we could stay for a few months. He put down the suitcase we were carrying from thepartment as I began to step my feet inside. I nced at him for a moment, who¡¯s talking at the receptionist before I looked around. The building was huge. Two grand staircases are weing you when you enter the building. The ceiling is all white, while the wall is built with precast concrete panels. After that, I impatiently nced at Peter again, who¡¯s holding the keycard now. He waved his hand at me, so I walked towards the elevator first. ¡°Our room is on the third floor,¡± he said, then he pushed the button up. After a while, the elevator opened, and we both went out. After a few steps, Peter stopped in front of a room. ¡°This will be your room. And mine is that one besides yours.¡± I went into my room and looked inside. The full ss window where I could see the Eiffel Tower immediately caught my attention. ¡°Beautiful . . .¡± I whispered as my palm rested on the ss window. ¡°Yeah, beautiful.¡± I heard a sweet voice over my shoulder. Peter closes his arms around me and caresses the bulge of my stomach. I lowered my head down and watched him do that to my stomach. ¡°Thanks for everything,¡± I utter and held back the tears that wanted to spill from my eyes. ¡°I¡¯m here whenever you need me,¡± he whispered. I bowed even more. I pursed my lips guiltily. If I had a choice, I would not do this to him. But maybe, this is my way to give myself a chance to like him, even though I know it¡¯s wrong. ¡°Just take a rest. I¡¯ll be at my suite if you need me,¡± he said in a hoarse voice. He hugged me tighter from behind me. I tapped his arm then nodded softly. ¡°Rest well, I¡¯m fine here,¡± I whispered again. When he came out, I turned my back on the big window to go straight into my room. I was looking around the room, but I didn¡¯t pay much attention to how nice it was. Iy my body on the soft bed. The toughness in my eyes slowly disappeared. My emotions are all over my body. I hugged myself, and there I gradually felt the hot tears forming at the corner of my eyes. How many times have I done this since we left? I can¡¯t count how many times my tears flowed because of him. My chest is so heavy. I feel that it is not only my heart that hurts but my whole being. I shook my head many times, trying to convince myself I was fine. I¡¯m not the only one who failed in love, there are others, and they can all cope and survived. I wiped away the tears and looked at the Eiffel Tower of Paris. You¡¯re going to be okay, Margaux. You will. *** TIME PASSED QUICKLY, so did the baby in my womb. I will give birth to a baby boy in a month. Staying here for months is a good opportunity for me. I met many people, friends, and business partners who helped our business in the Philippines invest in ourpany. I have been busy with many things. Peter even scolds me often because I almost spend my time attending my investors¡¯ meetings. The result was good because I temporarily forgot everything. I tried to turn my mind to something else, such as when I entered as a home base ountant in argepany here in Paris. I can say that I have been sessful in this field because I hold my time which is very convenient for me, especially when I am pregnant. Clarence Xander rence Xander I CAN SAY I am brave now. I was able to forget everything about him. The pain and suffering I left in the Philippines gave me new strength to continue what I started. I stopped typing on the keyboard when theptop in front of me rang. Cindy is calling on Skype! Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. I answered that immediately, and her image appeared on the monitor. ¡°Bestie, how are you?!¡± she greeted me with a full smile on her face. ¡°I¡¯m fine, you?¡± ¡°No worries, I¡¯m fine.¡± ¡°How about Mom and Dad?¡± ¡°They are fine. I had dinner with themst night,¡± she delightedly said. ¡°Thank you so much, bestie.¡± ¡°No problem. Anyway, when are you going home to the Philippines?¡± She furrowed her brows and rested her back against the chair. She scratched her big belly. She¡¯s also pregnant with her first child with Carrick. ¡°You know I want to give birth here. And it will be difficult for me to travel in my current situation. And once I have given birth, I will count three more months to travel the baby for his safety.¡± I have been tired of exining to them since I came here because they have been waiting for me to ¡°I saw Peterst time with Jocko at the bar. You¡¯re about to give birth. Someone needs to look at you there,¡± she said. Concern was evident in her voice. I sighed, I tried to smile, but I still couldn¡¯t help but mail in my current situation. ¡°He had a conference meeting there, so he left for a day. I don¡¯t want to force him just to take care of me. He wille back here soon anyway,¡± I exined. She just nodded. ¡°By the way, I know you don¡¯t want to hear about him, but . . .¡± she paused. She waited for what I was going to say, but when I did not speak, she continued. ¡°The wedding is canceled. Elliesse has a sudden project in LA, so they have to reschedule the wedding for next year. Then I heard that the two broke up before because of Elliesse¡¯s ambition to be a famous model. Can you imagine that? Until now, it is still the reason why their wedding was canceled this year.¡± She rolled her eyes and shook her head. My forehead furrowed, and I was immersed in deep thought. Was the marriage canceled because of that? It is impossible. She¡¯s pregnant. The marriage must continue because they will have a child. ¡°Hey, Margaux, are you okay?¡± I snapped out from my thinking and shifted on my seat ufortably. ¡°Uh, yes, I¡¯m fine.¡± I smiled a bit and looked away. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Margaux, I shouldn¡¯t have mentioned him to you.¡± The apology was in her tone. ¡°No, It¡¯s okay, don¡¯t be. I¡¯m getting used to it.¡± I trailed off. I tightened my grip on the ballpen I was holding earlier. ¡°Are you sure?¡± She raised her brows at me. ¡°What the heck! I was right when I was dismissed by her then. My only concern now is my baby. I am happy with my decision.¡± I smiled at her genuinely. I got up to go to the refrigerator and get some fresh milk. I went back to the chaise lounge and faced her again. ¡°You¡¯re right! Other guys deserve you. Look what he had done to you!¡± Her voice sounds irritated. ¡°I have nothing to regret. I am happy with the blessing that hase into my life,¡± I answered and quietly sipped the milk I was holding. ¡°Anyway, at least you have a souvenir from him, right?¡± She evenughed at her own joke. I just shook my head while smiling. ¡°Hon?¡± I heard someone called Cindy, and from behind, Carrick¡¯s handsome face peeked out. ¡°Hi, Margaux, how¡¯s Paris?¡± he asked. ¡°Hmm, I¡¯m okay!¡± I answered sparingly. He smiled as a dimple came out of his cheek, and my heart twists a bit. He did remind me of Lawrence. The features of the two do not go away. That look is really in the blood of Saavedra. He has messy dark brown hair, a perfectly subtle jaw, and soft-red lips. But I¡¯m thankful that he is different from Lawrence. Because I know he loves my best friend. ¡°Sorry, bestie, I need to cut our video call because we still have a check-up at my OB,¡± Cindy told me. I just smile as a thank you. She knew very well that our conversation should end. Carrick is Lawrence¡¯s cousin. We are sure all of this will reach Lawrence if he does not stop us. ¡°Alright, be careful! Baby, take care!¡± I smiled and waved my hands to both of them. I also cut the line and gently leaned back on the sofa. I could not help but let out a deep sigh. Suddenly I felt like I had no desire to work today. It¡¯s like I just want to sleep in the afternoon. After a lively conversation with Cindy and Carrick, I just feel exhausted and in pain. I¡¯m not sure what I should feel right now. The marriage did not go ahead. I don¡¯t know what¡¯s actually happening between Lawrence and Elliesse. But I should no longer care. I should no longer worry. I¡¯m okay now. I already forget about him, and I already formed a dream for just me and my baby. But why can¡¯t I still avoid getting hurt when it Do I still love him? Is leaving not enough to forget my love for himpletely? *** I HEARD A series of knocks on the door. I immediately stood up to open whoever was behind it. And my smile widened when I met Peter carrying a box of pizza and a box of cake. He also carried his traveling bag on his shoulder while his sweet smile was stered on his face. ¡°Peter!¡± I immediately greeted him with a hug. I can smell his familiar scent. I wed my hands on his shoulder and nted a soft kissed on his cheek. I heard his weakugh before snatching what he was carrying. ¡°Wow, that¡¯s my favorite!¡± He even whistled behind me as I made my way to the table there, as I shook my head and just smiled. ¡°How¡¯s your flight?¡± I looked up again to get his traveling bag, but he did not give it to me. ¡°This one is heavy.¡± He quicklyid the bag on the carpeted floor. ¡°Let¡¯s eat it,¡± I said as I turned around and walked towards the kitchen. I quickly grabbed a saucer and a knife to slice the cake. But I immediately screamed when I felt his hug from behind. He nted a kiss on my neck. Not just one, but a series of kisses that cause me to tickle. ¡°How are you, kiddo? Did you reprimand Mommy while I was away?¡± he softly said under the sensitive skin of my ear. He caresses my big belly, which he always does when he caresses me. ¡°He¡¯s a good boy,¡± I answered delightfully. I whirled around and looked up at him with a little smile on my lips. I blinked when he suddenly stopped and stood still. He licks his lower lip and takes one step back. I forced a smile back on my lips. ¡°Uh, let¡¯s eat the cake and pizza?¡± Touch Down Touch Down I QUICKLY WALKED away from him and shrugged what happened. I sliced the cake and pizza. I also took juice from the refrigerator and put it in the ss. ¡°How are you here?¡± he asked while chewing the food in his mouth. ¡°Hmm, fine. I¡¯m finishing a proposal for Mr. Lee. I¡¯ll be attending a meeting by Thursday at their office.¡± Peter shook his head. I knew he didn¡¯t want me to work. But even though I¡¯m having a hard time because of my pregnancy, I don¡¯t feel like I¡¯m tired because I don¡¯t want to be a burden for him. ¡°How¡¯s your conference?¡± I changed the topic. ¡°The meeting went well,¡± he said and just shrugged his shoulder. I feel like he doesn¡¯t want us to talk about his visit to the Philippines. I just nodded and didn¡¯t ask any more questions. N?velDrama.Org owns this. When we finish, Peter went straight to his room. It has also been a few months since he moved to my pad because it was difficult for me to do the choir alone, so I agreed to his offer to apany me here. He¡¯s a real gentleman. I admit he is extra sweet, especially when ites to the baby in my stomach. Sometimes I can¡¯t help but ask why not just Peter? I immediately put away what we had eaten. As I did, I could not help but look around at his room. What happened during hisst visit to the Philippines? Was there a problem? Out of curiosity, I went to his room to talk to him. I pushed the door softly and looked straight at him, who¡¯s now lying on the bed. He only took off his suit while leaving his pants and shoes, probably because he was so tired from the trip that he could not even change his clothes. As I watched inside his room, I could not help but smile. Even if we spend time together for months, I didn¡¯t enter his room even once. It¡¯s only now that I have been able to observe the cleanliness and orderliness of his entire room. My lips lifted as I saw our picture right on the nightstand table. It is room in a frame taken from the Eiffel Tower. I slowly pulled it out to stare at it. He hugged me from behind, and we had the Eiffel Tower in the background. I gasped and bit my lip hard. Tears started to pool at the corner of my eyes. Peter never left me. He was always by my side, without even asking why. He never took advantage of me. He was willing to give his time, care, and love to me without anything in return. But here I am, seeking the man who will never be mine again. I slowly returned the photo to the table and nced at Peter again. He¡¯s shirtless. I can see the width of his back and the muscles that I thought were angry because of its protruded veins. I approached him to take off his shoes. But I was stunned by his sudden move. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry if I woke you up,¡± I stuttered and simply looked away. I bit my lip and almost reddened my two cheeks. ¡°No, it¡¯s okay, Margaux.¡± Hey down, and he himself took off his shoes. My lips parted because of the anger of his muscles. How many times have I seen him naked? Many times. But this time, I felt my cheeks turned into a sad hot. I can¡¯t help but stare at it for a day. ¡°Uh, I should go.¡± I shut my eyes. I can¡¯t help but stutter in front of it. I immediately turned around to step my feet out when he called me. ¡°Margaux!¡± I turned around to face him, and to my surprised, he¡¯s now an inch away from me. He lowered down and looked at me closely. ¡°W-what?¡± I stammered. ¡°I just wanted to say thank you for allowing me to take care of you,¡± he said softly. I bent down to hide the biting of my lower lip. My heart is racing, and my knees were betraying me. ¡°No, I should be the one to thank you. It was a big deal for you to stay here with me, Peter,¡± I whispered. He steps closer and puts his finger under my chin. He slowly lifted it so that our gazes were even. I saw a zing fire burning in his eyes. There¡¯s also desire, lust, thirst, and hunger in them. I know; it¡¯s not a joke to put up with him while we¡¯re on the same roof. ¡°You know I will do anything and everything just to make you happy. I like what I do,¡± he muttered and slowly caressed my cheeks. I knew he had a lot more to say, based on how his eyes shone and his lips twitched as he stared at me. In the end, I had nothing to say, so I just hugged him very tightly as if there was no tomorrow. *** ¡°PETER!!!¡± I cried out loud when I felt extreme pain, and water flowed down my thighs. I am currently cooking while Peter is in the bathroom and taking a bath. He immediately came out of the bathroom while his body was still wet. He was only wearing a short and trace of concern when he came out. ¡°What happened?!¡± he asked nervously. ¡°I-I think I¡¯m going to give birth!¡± I shout in pain. I held tightly to his arm while enduring the pain. But he didn¡¯t get a response. He just stood still and looked at me with disbelief. ¡°Fuck, Peter! I¡¯m going to give birth!¡± I shouted. It was only then that he realized what I was saying. He quickly picked me up and put me in his car, and quickly sit next to me. ¡°F*ck! I-I forgot my key!¡± he stuttered. I bit my lower lip hard. If my stomach hadn¡¯t been sore, I would haveughed at him because his face was even paler than mine. *** MY EYES WIDENED when I heard the child¡¯s weak cry. ¡°She¡¯s awake,¡± Peter whispered to the child before lying down next to me. ¡°My baby . . .¡± I said weakly. Tears welled up in my eyes immediately. I feel full of energy since I have him now in my arms. My abundant tears kept dripping. He was so white. He got his father¡¯s thick eyebrows and sharp nose. His lips were also red, and he had dim eyes. He looks like his father. All those features remind me of him. I burst into tears when I saw his lips twitch due to the dimple on both cheeks. ¡°He¡¯s so adorable,¡± Peter said to me while caressing my hair. I bit my lip and nodded. And not a secondter, the door opened. ¡°Congrattions, Ma¡¯am and Sir!¡± the nurse greeted us with a sweet smile. ¡°What¡¯s the name of the baby?¡± she asked politely. ¡°rence . . .¡± Peter said immediately. I nced at Peter with a frown. We never talked about the baby¡¯s name. ¡°rence Xander, that will be his name.¡± ¡°Hmm, nice name,¡± the nurse nodded. ¡°Yes. His name is rence Xander,¡± he repeated before ncing at the baby next to me. Meeting Again Meeting Again I LAY CLARENCE to bed as he falls asleep. I stroked his hair, the grain of tears I had been trying to hold back had gradually formed in the corner of my eyes. I have tried to throw him out of my head. But he keepsing every time I looked at rence. Allysa was right; he looks like Lawrence. I shook my head. Why can¡¯t he be removed from my mind? What is wrong? I traveled far for the good of everyone, but why do I feel haunted by the past? Even those sweet good moments we had are now turned into a knife that kills my already broken heart. I smiled bitterly, trying to dig into which part it still hurts. I shook my head again. I¡¯d still have to live with myself, with the wretched memories swirling around in my head. I will never let myself fall like this again. I need to stand up. And I have to do it for rence. Until a faint knock on my door distracts me from my thoughts. Cindy peeked slowly and walked over to the side of the bed. She fakes a cough before saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for Allysa. You know her mouth is unmerciful,¡± she muttered lowly. I shook my head and looked down at the sleeping rence. ¡°That¡¯s okay. I can¡¯t deny the fact that he is his son.¡± ¡°What are your ns now? Will you introduce him to Lawrence?¡± Her voice lowered. It seems hard for her to ask that. ¡°I can¡¯t help it. I¡¯m sure it will happen soon. Especially now that the world is small for the three of us,¡± I answered and gently stroked rence¡¯s hair. ¡°How about Kyzler¡¯s uing baptism? Can you go? The reception will be held at the Saavedra Resort,¡± she said, seemingly feeling my reaction. I let out a long sighed. I approached the CD yer and yed a luby song not to disturb rence¡¯s sleep. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, bestie. You know Carrick and Lawrence are cousins,¡± she told me. I¡¯m sure the news that we are here in the Philippines will reach Lawrence because of Carrick. My heart felt as if my blood had be tar as it struggled to keep a steady beat. Now I can hardly control my nervousness, thinking that we will see each other again. ¡°It¡¯s up to you. After all, it looks like their engagement will happen soon, and they will have a baby too,¡± I said bitterly. Cindy immediately frowned at what I said. At the same time, I was confused by her reaction. ¡°A child?¡± I nodded. ¡°Holy shit!¡± she said louder and was followed by a pat on the forehead. ¡°W-why?¡± I furrowed my brows at her. I also started to get nervous. ¡°Elliesse is not pregnant!¡± My two shoulders fell because of what she said. *** ¡°ARE ALL OF rence¡¯s things okay, Doris?¡± I asked the babysitter that mother had taken. ¡°Everything is ready,¡± she answered. ¡°Have you forgotten anything?¡± I asked her while carrying baby rence. ¡°Nope,¡± she sparingly answered while carrying the big bag. We decided to leave the room and go straight to the dining room, where we reached Mom and Dad for coffee. ¡°Say goodbye to your grandpa and grandma,¡± I said to rence. ¡°Oh. We will miss this grandson of mine,¡± Mom said. Then they took the child from me. ¡°Mommy, it¡¯s just two days,¡± I said when I saw the grain of tears in her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m here. Let¡¯s just y,¡± Daddy joked to Mom. ¡°Rudolfo, it¡¯s not funny. Your daughter is still here!¡± Mom eximed. She quickly grabbed Dad¡¯s side and pinched him there. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with what I said? I just said we¡¯re going to y golf. I¡¯m not done yet!¡± he shaking litany to mom. Mommy just stared at his answer and handed me baby rence. ¡°Oh, he¡¯s fine. You,¡± she pointed at me, ¡°go ahead, and it¡¯s hard to catch the night on the road!¡± Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. ¡°Be careful, hija!¡± Daddy said goodbye to us as we were escorted outside the house. After I kissed them on the cheek, I went out to meet the newly arrived Peter. ¡°Hi!¡± he greeted. I was shocked when he kissed me on the side of my lip. I stand in froze. I never thought he would do that, right in front of my parents. ¡°Good morning!¡± he politely greeted my parents before shaking their hands. ¡°Be careful in driving, son!¡± Dad ordered him while patting his shoulder. ¡°Yes, I will take care of them,¡± Peter answered timidly. Then turned to us to pick up the child. ¡°Good morning, kiddo!¡± Peter sweetly said to rence. He kissed the child on the cheek, causing him to giggle with delight. I just smiled and decided to take Doris with my assistant in the car. We set sail for San Simon. As we got closer and closer, my heart beat faster. I can feel the fear in my chest and an insatiable fire that burnt all the oxygen in my body. I¡¯m not sure what I¡¯m going to do when we get there. I leaned against the window and watched as the trees in the building and establishment slowly engulfed the trees until I could feel Peter¡¯s palm resting on my hand. ¡°Are you sure about this? Can we not continue if you are worried?¡± he asked softly. I nced up at him, and he looked at me with his soft and warm eyes. I shook my head and turned my attention back to the window. ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± I answered. He didn¡¯t speak anymore because he knew I didn¡¯t want to talk about it anymore. It was already afternoon when we arrived at the resort. Therge arch that greeted me immediately grabbed my attention. ¡°Wow, it¡¯s so beautiful! It looks like paradise!¡± Doris eximed. Her face was full of amazement at what she saw. I smiled. This was also my reaction the first time I stepped on the fine sand of San Simon. The air is sweet, the weather is fine, and the water in the sea glittered invitingly, just like the old times. ¡°I¡¯ll go check our reservation,¡± Peter said to us. I need to stay calm even though I was nervous. Fortunately, Peter has my back, so we immediately set sail for the suite reserved for us. ¡°I¡¯m just in the other room. If you need anything¡ª¡± He paused. He does not seem to know how to begin what to say. I forced a smile on him. ¡°I¡¯m okay, Peter. We¡¯re okay!¡± I assured him. I know he¡¯s also concerned about what might happen when Lawrence and I meet. ¡°Okay, just stay here,¡± he said softly. Because of his instructions, I chose not to go out of the suite all day. Doris said goodbye to me to go swimming in the sea, which I allowed. I also barely felt sleepy all night. My heart twisted and sank with nervousness as Iy on my bed. I¡¯ll make sure that everything will be fine tomorrow. *** FINALLY, THE DAY I¡¯ve dreading is here. We set sail early to the cathedral, and it was expected that the church would be overcrowded. Kyzler, who will be baptized, is almost confused. Even baby rence was not safe from being bitten by guests. ¡°He¡¯s so adorable!¡± Julia nodded as she crouched in her arms. Madly In Love Madly In Love I SMILED A bit and shifted on my seat ufortably. My eyes were naughty. I also ignored the greetings of some friends and acquaintances due to extreme nervousness. I wanted to make sure I couldn¡¯t see him here, but it looked impossible because I could see a man in front of the chair from where I was sitting. His shoulders were square, broad, and burly like a warrior. Even though I could only see his back, I knew it was him. I couldn¡¯t breathe. I think something is choking me. My heart was pounding so hard against my ribcage. I didn¡¯t remember being scared in my entire life. Suddenly it was as if I wanted to run out of the church and leave everything here. But I was shocked when Peter grabbed my shovel. ¡°Hey, are you alright?¡± I quickly turned my attention to him. ¡°Y-yes, I¡¯m fine . . .¡± I said in a trembling voice. I was not on myself when the mass started. Doris was hugging baby rence, and I could not sit still until the godparents are called in front. I bowed my head I walked towards the front. Peter was next to me. When the priest started to speak, I just raised my head. And right straight to where I stand, I saw Lawrence. My heart immediately pounded with excitement. His appearance was seductive. His hair was well done with a creative nose, a square stubble jaw, and his tight lips, making my heart leap. But his face is expressionless with no sign of feelings. The tension in his jaw can also be traced to his definite anger. I tried to breathe calmly. I also tried to avert my gaze from him and eventually lowered my gaze. I wish I could get the strength to run, but I can¡¯t. If only the earth could swallow me, I would just escape his deadly stares. I am thankful that baptism was over soon. One by one, everyone sailed out of the church. I am still not on myself. My mind and heart are debating whether to leave San Simon and return to Man right away. But even before I could step out, someone held my wrist. It was so fast. His hand held mine then he pulled me away. It was toote to protest because I was N?velDrama.Org owns this. quickly locked in a corner of the wall where almost no one would notice us. My lips parted in shock. Even my breathing tightened. He looked at me darkly; jaw clenched so tight. He almost swallowed the space between us. ¡°Margaux . . .¡± he whispered my name in a sweet but venomous tone. I could feel the trembling of my two knees as I looked up at him. He almost nailed me from standing because of his dark stare at me. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± he asked coldly. I did not answer. Instead, I tried to get out of him, but it looks like he has no intention of letting go. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere, Margaux.¡± His voice was raspy, and his eyes were serious as he looked at me. ¡°What are you doing? Can you release me?¡± I said calmly. I pushed him away, but he didn¡¯t move a single inch. ¡°We have a lot to talk about, Margaux. You can¡¯t run away from me again.¡± I swallowed hard. His eyes almost zed over as he stared at me. His jaw also continues to tighten in rage. ¡°We have nothing to talk about, Lawrence, because nothing is going on between the two of us!¡± I said emphatically. He stared at me in awe, and that¡¯s where I got the chance to push him hard. He stepped back and looked at me in disbelief. Even I can¡¯t believe what I said. ¡°Stay away from me,¡± I weakly said because I knew in myself that I did not like what I said. ¡°You don¡¯t know where I was looking for you, Margaux. You left me with nothing. After all that has happened to us, you just left without saying goodbye?!¡± He stepped closer, grasping my two arms as if I really had no intention of letting go. ¡°I will fucking never let you put me back on this mess again, Margaux,¡± he said as he was squeezing my arm tightly. I bit my lower lip, not because he squeezed my arm but because of hisst word. ¡°Let go of me. Otherwise, I will shout!¡± I threaten between consecutive breaths. Lawrence raised his thick brows and looked at me with a twisted face, ¡°You can¡¯t do that, don¡¯t you?¡± I could not even answer when he caressed my cheek. I knew his lip was about to touch me just a few inches, but I immediately pushed him when I heard Peter called my name. He retreated but still did not leave in front of me. He kept his distance closed and looked at me with creased brows. ¡°That bastard, how long will that man followed you?¡± he muttered closely. I felt my ears getting hot. I re at him with hatred. ¡°How dare you say that to me? You know nothing of what happened since I left!¡± He finally backed away, hands slide down to his pocket and staring hard at me. ¡°Who told you to leave, then?¡± he asked with the hint of bitterness. My tongue stuck at that question. And I said nothing. My conscience immediately overwhelmed me because of his departure. His words cut right through me. I felt my heart stretch wider than it should. I was almost drowned by the air entering my chest. *** WHEN WE GOT back to the resort, I immediately went straight to my suite. There I caught up with Doris watching rence asleep. It was as if my heart was squeezing as I sat beside the naive child. Lawrence and I have just met; he will soon meet his child at any time from now on. I shook my head. Weeks ago, it was okay for me to let them meet. But why am I now afraid It would be wrong for me to hide him from Lawrence, but this is the only way to protect my son. I know that this is the right thing to do right now. And the only way I can think of is to go back to Man. My brain immediately worked. I quickly pulled out the traveling bag we were carrying and put rence¡¯s belongings in it one by one. ¡°Are we leaving yet?¡± Doris asked me. ¡°Yes, Doris. Arrange all of rence¡¯s belongings.¡± I did not look at her as Imand her. ¡°But the gathering is just beginning. Ma¡¯am Cindy came here earlier and looked for you.¡± ¡°I-I already talked to her. I also said goodbye to her,¡± I said firmly. She no longer spoke. We were ready to leave when suddenly the door of our suite opened, which startled me. The absolute shockpletely paralyzed me. The feeling of having him standing so close to my son made my heart tremble. ¡°Who are you?!¡± Doris asked alertly to the man in front of us. I almost turned pale when he turned his gaze to my baby. The astonishment was on his face, and his mouth hung with lips slightly parted and the veins popping hard in his temple. Date Date ¡°UH, DORIS, PLEASE take rence out first. We just need to talk about something.¡± ¡°No, wait . . .¡± he stopped Doris from leaving. He stepped closer to the two, almost wondering who the baby was. My heart stops beatingpletely. I almost stiffened from the moment he started to step closer to rence. He stopped and looked at the child still sound asleep. ¡°What is his name?¡± His voice became smooth and gentle. He unconditionally held the hand of the naive child. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. Doris nced at me before answering. ¡°Uh, his name is rence Xander,¡± she muttered lowly. He clenched his jaw tight and turned his scowl face at me. I almost lost my color because of his dark look. ¡°Ah, rence and I will just go out. Sister¡¯s bonding for a moment,¡± Doris said and bid goodbye. I couldn¡¯t even nod because Lawrence quickly stepped closer to me. He grabbed me by the hand and looked at me with dark and cold, piercing eyes. ¡°How could you do this to me?! Why did you hide your pregnancy from me? He¡¯s my son! My own flesh and blood! How could you, Margaux?!¡± His voice sounded more painful than anything. I swallowed, my lips quivering so bad. I can feel the hot tears already welling up in my eyes. I want to stop, but it¡¯s toote. ¡°I me myself because you left. I tried to find you; even Carrick didn¡¯t want to tell me where you were. They hide you from me!¡± I felt his tight grip on my wrist, lowered his head down with ck eyes drilling into mine. ¡°But the world, Margaux, is not that small because you are not good at hiding.¡± I bit my lower lip and drew a deep breath. ¡°I never hide . . .¡± I said stiffly. ¡°D*mn it!¡± I swallowed hard again. He released and wiped the two palms on his face. ¡°F*ck!¡± he cursed sharply. A pair of tears raced down my cheeks. My two knees are slowly weakening. Seeing him full of hatred made my heart swelling and hurt in a way that cuts deep in my core. ¡°I hired an investigator, and I knew you were in France, living on the same roof with Peter while carrying my child. How was that, huh?!¡± he shouted with full of rage. ¡°I just wanted to protect him!¡± I couldn¡¯t finish my word because of his vulgar coarse. ¡°Protect him from whom? From me? That¡¯s bullshit, Margaux!¡± I bit my lip hard. It was as if a dagger had pierced my heart. I admit I want to take it away from him, but I know that no matter what I do, I cannot deny that he¡¯s the father of my rence. ¡°I don¡¯t want to hide my pregnancy from you. I¡¯m about to confess that night, but Elliesse told me that she¡¯s also pregnant,¡± I said with my shaking voice. He shook his head and chuckled with displeasure. ¡°And you believed her?¡± I lowered my head down then nodded ashamedly. ¡°That will never happen! I neverid my fingers on her,¡± he said in a deep voice. He stepped closer to me. His hand reaches up both my cheeks and wipes away my tears. I opened my mouth to let in a small breath as tears drain in my eyes. ¡°It¡¯s you whom I wanted to be with for the rest of my life. I know we didn¡¯t have a good start, but I promise to make things right this time. Just give us a try.¡± I pursed my lips, feeling my throat dry up to the next word he said. ¡°Marry me, Margaux.¡± I sighed. That was the word I was most afraid to hear again. The word gave me so much pain and agony. I fell in love once. Unfortunately, I fell for the wrong one. I gave my all, I almost left nothing for myself, but that was not enough. ¡°I am ready to marry you and build a family with you and our son,¡± he now said in a hushed voice. I closed my eyes tightly and bowed. I also tried to hold his hand to lower it. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry. I can¡¯t marry you . . .¡± I stuttered. I finally walked away and tried to turn my back on him, but his firm grip stopped me. His arms wrap around my back, and in one gentle pull, our skin touches. His hands move over my skin that made my legs crumble. I drew out short pants and shoved him off. But his arms seemed to be iron, and I was only tightly bound. ¡°I know you still love me, Margaux. You can¡¯t lie to me,¡± he muttered under his breath. I was overwhelmed. My throat started to tighten. His grip on me made it even harder for me to barely breathe. ¡°You promised to marry, Elliesse,¡± I mumbled shakily. He chuckled, a splinteringugh that sent a shiver on me. I quickly averted my eyes from him because of his burning stare. ¡°I did not promise her anything. That was just an arranged marriage, and I already canceled the wedding,¡± he said in a low voice. I closed my eyes and struggled with the trembling of my two knees. Gradually Elliesse¡¯s words came back to me. She admitted to me that she was pregnant then, but the truth is not. What about the share of theirpany to Saavedra¡¯s? Is all that true? I only know so little about Lawrence¡¯s background, I never had a chance to get to know him well, and that is what I deeply regret now. I want to, but many things were holding me back. My past rtionship with Lester is one of them. I want to focus on rence first, and the other one holding me back is Peter. What will he say after he has sacrificed his whole time for us? I do not want to hurt him, and I don¡¯t want to see him hurt. ¡°No, I¡¯m sorry! I can¡¯t marry you!¡± I shook my head many times. I let in a small breath as I hold my tears to fall. His jaw clenched so tightly, and his eyes were holding a wave of total anger. It looks like he cannot ept what I said. ¡°Please, leave us alone . . .¡± I said in my weaker voice. ¡°You¡¯re unbelievable,¡± he said while shaking his head. ¡°You let me love you that night. You kissed me that night. Don¡¯t tell me . . . it¡¯s because of that man?! Are you in love with him? Are you?!¡± he said through gritted teeth. ¡°No!¡± I replied quickly. But he does not seem to believe. His expression didn¡¯t show any big changes. My heart raced as I took a nce at his pitch-ck eyes, teeth grinding, and balled up his fist so hard that blue veins protruded. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I utter slowly. The room sank into silence. I wiped away the tears. I want to retract what I said, but I know it will be better for both of us. Not a second after, Lawrence pulls me to him. My palmsnded directly on his wide chest. He bent down and looked at me. His eyes were deep and burning. I can¡¯t breathe properly. My whole body was feeling tingly at this point. If he continues this, I will not be able to stand by what I said. Sorry Sorry HE LOWERED HIS head and slowly hovering my face more. ¡°The hardest thing I have ever done is walk away while I¡¯m still madly in love with you, Margaux.¡± Before I knew it, our tongues entwined in a kiss, just enough to intoxicate my mind. My arms spontaneously hugged his nape, grasped his hair so tight, and pulled him closer to deepen the kiss. The kiss that I dreamed ofst night. The kiss that I was longing for so long . . . He drew away slowly, lick his lower lip as his forehead rest to mine. ¡°I love you, and I want to be the very best for you. I will not allow that man to be the father of my son. Not this time, Margaux. And I will not give up on you easily,¡± he said straight and firmly. *** THE DAY WENT so fast but smoothly. I can¡¯t even remember that day¡ªthe day west met Lawrence. This is what I want, right? It¡¯s all over with us. I do not intend to overturn my decision. But as time went by, and as rence grew, I feel like I¡¯m carrying something heavier in my chest. ¡°Are you guys ready?!¡± Peter said energetically. ¡°Yes, we are ready!¡± I answered. Peter quickly took rence from me. Doris is off today, and Peter decided to take rence and me for a walk today. Also, Mom and Dad are not here because they have an important business trip. ¡°How are you, little kiddo?¡± Peter asked rence sweetly. Even though the boy did not answer, I am sure he was d to see Peter. I was already carrying rence¡¯s belongings when I was stopped by an oing vehicle. My heart raced unexpectedly, especially when it stopped right in front of me. Momentster, the door opened, and it spat out Lawrence. I openly gaped as I observed his tight jaw with an angr shape filled with little stubbles. I almost drowned in his presence as he stepped closer to me. My jaw slowly hit the ground as I looked at his soft, sharp lips that very attractive and captivating. Even if I don¡¯t smell it, it obviously smells good. And he¡¯s wearing a ck polo shirt paired along with denim jeans and ck shoes. In that instant, he turned and caught my eye before I could turn away. There seems to be a ma sticking between us. His eyese closed, and it makes me want to feel how his lips move in a kiss and how his hands follow the curves of my body. ¡°What are you doing here, Saavedra?¡± Peter said right behind my back. I blinked and quickly averted my eyes. ¡°I came here to visit my son,¡± he said confidently. Peter stepped towards me then nced at me before Lawrence. ¡°Do you have the right to visit your son?¡± Peter asked him bluntly. A muscle on his jaw clenched annoyingly. ¡°I¡¯m his father, Mr. Monteverde,¡± Lawrence said with a smirk. I heard Peter gnashing his teeth and muttered a curse. In the end, he said nothing but grabbed my wrist to ask him to leave. Lawrence looked down at my wrist with a twisted face. I was about to pull my hand away from it, but Peter stopped me firmly. ¡°As you can see, we are nning to have a family bonding today, Mr. Saavedra,¡± Peter said seriously. ¡°I hope you don¡¯t mind if I join you?¡± Lawrence said as his eyes shifted to me. His eyes were dark and totally unreadable. My heart pounded even more because of the growing tension between him and Peter. ¡°What did you say?!¡± I feel Peter¡¯s grip tighten on my wrist. I know he only suppresses his anger. ¡°Yes, you heard me right. I¡¯ll go with my son.¡± A ridiculous grin spread over his face. The two looked at each other for a moment before I could feel Peter¡¯s grip on me. ¡°Why not? We¡¯ll just eat outside, and I¡¯ll take rence to the Man Zoo,¡± he said with finality. ¡°Alright, so let¡¯s go?¡± Lawrence said with a hint of excitement. Since I did not answer, they both turned to me. I tighten my lips hard. I was hoping Lawrence would leave after learning that we had a walk, but what did he say? He want to go with us? ¡°Let¡¯s go, love,¡± Peter softly whispered right through my ears. My head shot up, and I swallowed hard forcefully. When did he learn to call me that? My eyes instantly flew out to Lawrence. His eyes were very dark and murderous. Suddenly my lips felt very dry, and I could not speak immediately. I also could not understand what was running through Peter¡¯s mind as to why he agreed to include Lawrence in our bonding today. ¡°Here you go!¡± Lawrence immediately opened the door of his car for us. ¡°They will not ride in your car.¡± Peter insisted that he put some of our belongings in the backseat. Lawrence nced at me first as if he was asking for my decision. But like before, I just averted my eyes. ¡°Okay, you get on him,¡± he said before finally getting into his car. ¡°Let¡¯s go?¡± Peter said and silently opened the door for me. Along the way, the two of us just kept quiet. I¡¯m not used to seeing him like this. He was fun, especially with rence. He also doesn¡¯t run out of stories and jokes when we have a trip like this. I know he¡¯s not happy with his decision. I know it¡¯s only forced because of rence. And I know how he loves my son so much to the point that he would give up his happiness for the sake of rence. I couldn¡¯t stop myself from grabbing his arm. It nced at me for a moment before refocusing on the road. ¡°I understand. I just don¡¯t understand why he has to force himself on you,¡± he said in irritation. I sighed deeply. I slowly stroked his arm. ¡°Let¡¯s just enjoy the day,¡± I mutter softly. He didn¡¯t speak anymore, so I decided to turn my attention to the road. After what I heard from Peter, I know that this date will be a bad day. *** LIKE WHAT PETER said, he took us to the zoo. He was also the one who always carries rence, who was very happy with the variety of animals he saw. I quickly took a picture of them using the cellphone I was holding. I never saw that smile before. He was obviouslyughing happily. Even at a young age, he seemed to know what would make him N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. happy. ¡°How long do you want to y games with him?¡± I was immediately relieved when I felt Lawrence¡¯s presence next to me. ¡°I¡¯ve just given him a chance,¡± I stated and looked at their photo on my phone. I heard his heavy sigh, and then we mmed next to me. ¡°Chance? Or maybe you just felt guilty for him, so you can¡¯t leave him?¡± I nced at him. He folds his arms in front of me while his face is serious. His bloodshot eyes were telling me to stop messing around. ¡°rence is growing up. Who do you want him to meet as his father?¡± he added through gritted teeth. I鈥檓 Sorry I¡¯m Sorry ¡°YOU DON¡¯T KNOW what you¡¯re talking about. I can raise my son alone, even without his father.¡± I decided just to put the cellphone I was holding in the bag and folded my arms next to him. ¡°Of course you do. But you can never deny the truth that I am his father. Like you, I can also secure his future with you. We could be a happy family together if you wanted to.¡± I just shook my head. I can also do that. I can be a father to him. I am not the only one in this fight. There are many single moms, and I know they can handle it. But I do not close my heart for him. I just wanted to protect my son from all of this shit. ¡°I¡¯m not stopping you from looking after him. But that¡¯s all I can give you,¡± I finally said. ¡°I want to secure my ce for my son. I will not allow him to know any father other than me. I want you to take rence away from that man soon,¡± he said in a rough tone. I shook my head and chuckled lightly. ¡°You don¡¯t even know who I want my son to approach. I still have custody of him. And I¡¯m seeing a good connection between Peter and my son!¡± ¡°What is this? Are you sailing on two rivers?!¡± I felt the pain of what he said. But it hurts more to hear that word from him. I violently deal with him. My face heats up, jaw mped tight, and brows knitted in a frown. ¡°Take back what you said! Because I will never do what you say! I owed him that much. He was the only man who cared about me, and I knew he could not hurt me!¡± I said with my high-pitch voice. ¡°Just because you owed him that much, you will do it for the sake of your happiness? You¡¯re impossible!¡± he said in an indignant tone. He looked at me even darker. He slowly emits a fire between us that causes my knees to crumble so bad. ¡°Don¡¯t fool yourself, Margaux. Don¡¯t insist on what you shouldn¡¯t! He has the right to know what he is in your life! I know you know you can¡¯t love him!¡± I bit my lower lip and gently shed tears at the corner of my eye because of what he said. I am hurting for Peter. Of all the people I will hurt, why Peter? He suffered a lot, not only his whole time but also his heart. If I could just choose him, I would. But no. I can¡¯t. ¡°Margaux?¡± I immediately turned to Peter¡¯s voice calling me. He looked at me with a wide smile on his face, and my heart instantly melts away as I watched him walking towards me. I simply covered my face to dry my tears and smiled at him genuinely. I met him quickly as if nothing had happened between Lawrence and me. ¡°How are you? You seem to enjoy the show,¡± I said with my cracked voice. He didn¡¯t speak at first and nced at Lawrence, who was right behind me. The two looked at each other for a moment before Peter nced at me. ¡°Yup! rence really enjoyed what he saw, especially the giraffe.¡± Peter smiled a bit. ¡°Hmm, he looks so tired but happy.¡± I smiled back and pinched his nose lightly. ¡°I think he¡¯s hungry. Let¡¯s have lunch first,¡± Peter said to me. We headed to the nearest restaurant and chose to have lunch with Lawrence, who had been quiet since we left the zoo. We also just kept quiet while eating. Since Peter is still hugging rence, I will inevitably give him food sometimes. It¡¯s okay with me because I don¡¯t see anything wrong with that. But because we were right in front of Lawrence, I could not enjoy the food, especially since I could barely paint his face while watching us. But the cord of his patience is not that long. When I notice his dark features as he put down his spoon andid his back against the chair, my heartpletely stopped. ¡°What a beautiful scene. If someone else sees you, you will be mistaken for a couple,¡± he said with a ¡°Well, that¡¯s what I notice too. After all, we will soon form a family, not bad either.¡± Peter said confidently. Lawrence sarcasticallyughed while shaking his head. ¡°Truly? Well, if she¡¯d marry you. I do not object,¡± he said in a challenging tone. I cleared my throat, quickly lowering my gaze to what I was eating. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m telling you now, Saavedra. I want Margaux. If she gives me a chance, I want to marry her as soon as possible.¡± Peter stated. At this very moment, I just wanted the ground to be crackly open and swallow me whole. My forehead immediately sweated from the tension enveloping us. ¡°That¡¯s a great idea. So why don¡¯t you ask her?¡± He crossed his arms and wait for Peter¡¯s next move. His face looked so radiant. He¡¯s so sure of himself because he looks like I will read it. I quickly nced at Peter, who smiled broadly at Lawrence. Cowardice does not seem to be reflected. ¡°Peter, you don¡¯t have to do this!¡± I resisted whatever he intended to tell me. ¡°I just want to secure my ce in your heart, Margaux,¡± he said softly and gently caressed my cheek. ¡°You had a ce in my heart, Peter. Don¡¯t bother to ask, please,¡± I utter shakily. I also shook my head down because I know it won¡¯t bother me anymore. ¡°I gave you my life, and I never take back any return. The love I gave you was my bond, not because I feel chained but because I honor you more than everything I am. Please, marry me, Margaux,¡± he unconditionally said. I felt my heart is about to leap out from my body. I could not answer immediately. My mouth dries up and couldn¡¯t withstand any longer. I can¡¯t see if he was hurt, but I can do nothing. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, but I want to focus on my son first.¡± Silence lingered for a very long moment. The silence was deafening, as if I did not want to breathe anymore. I slowly looked up at him, and I regret every word I say that it seemed as if this was the end of the road for him. ¡°I really sorry . . .¡± I quickly stood up and took rence from him. I didn¡¯t even think about leaving the restaurant and immediately hailed a taxi. I even heard them calling me, but I ignored them. *** ALONG THE WAY, tears welled up in my eyes. I never thought that I would be going to reject Peter N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. right in front of Lawrence. It was a big p in his face. I deeply regretted what I did and turned my back on him despite the hard work he did for rence and me. I did not immediately go straight to the mansion. I prefer to spend time in my condominium first. It would be better for me to avoid him. I do not know how I will face him despite everything. Second Chances Second Chances I DROPPED A call to Mom. I let her know that we will spend here tonight and tomorrow we will go home. I just wore my nightdress after having taken a quick shower. I went straight to the kitchen to make coffee, but it was dyed when I heard a series of doorbell sounds. My heart starts pounding. I have no expected guests, especially thiste-night time. ¡°Margaux, open this door.¡± I heard Peter¡¯s voice outside. ¡°Margaux, let¡¯s talk, please . . .¡± His voice was ring outside the door. I guess he¡¯s drank based on his loud shout. Because I did not want to disturb the other unit, I quickly went to the door to open it. And his usual yful smile had drawn into his face weed me. ¡°Hi,¡± he uttered softly. I opened the door wide to let him in. ¡°What are you doing here? I guess you stayed toote,¡± I said carefully. He did not answer, but instead, he sat down on the couch there and closed his eyes firmly. I first watched him carefully, still wearing the polo shirt he was wearing earlier, and also based on the smell of him, I am sure he drank a lot. I sighed heavily. It was as if my heart wanted to crush me while I was lying on it. I know I hurt him too much. If I could just retract what I said before, I would do it, but I know that it will not change the fact that I refused the marriage he offered. ¡°Uh, I¡¯ll just make you some coffee,¡± I said. I quickly turned my back on him and made my way to the kitchen. My heartbored from both rush and nervousness. If I had not taken action, I would have ended up in boiling water. But I almost jump off to my feet when Peter was encircling his long arms around my waist. I almost threw the coffee I was mixing in to the cup because of the shock. ¡°Hmm, I missed you so much,¡± he said huskily behind my ear. The scorching heat of his body behind me made my knees tremble. ¡°Peter, you¡¯re drunk,¡± I whispered. I close my eyes as he finally hugs my two arms. I could feel his hot breath attacking my skin. I finally let go of the teaspoon I was holding and clung tightly to the sink. ¡°Peter . . .¡± My eyes heat up as I whispered his name slowly. ¡°I am ready to wait for you. Just let me love you,¡± he said huskily and nted a kiss on my shoulder. I bit my lip and shook it, and gathered air in my chest to have the courage to face him. And so much to my surprise, he doesn¡¯t move away from me. Unlike before, it feels like it burns when our bodies stick together like this. I could do nothing but lean on the sink. My whole body was trembling, seemingly changing in his actions. His dark brown eyes were looking hard at me. He bent slightly to observe me closely. ¡°I pray that you feel the same way as I do. The feeling I get when you look at me, that time-the first time,¡± he muttered closely. I shook my head before it began to shake. ¡°I really don¡¯t have enough to say to you at this very moment,¡± he told me in a sharp tone. I feel the fear in my chest as I looked at his eyes filled with utter rage. It was toote to avoid him because, in a sh, his lips dropped on me. He kissed me not so gently but roughly. I can feel his hand in my hair, then move down to my back. I quickly grabbed both of his arms to push him, but he was too strong. ¡°Peter, stop . . .¡± I said in between my sharp breathe. His right hand drops to my thigh, pulling up my nightgown. My eyes widened at what he did. The side of his thighs is pressed against mine. I gradually lost strength because of the struggle. This is not Peter. It is far from the Peter I met. ¡°No, Peter!¡± I screamed out. But he did not listen. His tongue was tasting my breath, and he opened my mouth forcefully. I also felt his naughty hand rest on the top of my dress. Then he reaches for my breast, and his mouth lets out a moan in ecstasy. It was there that I felt the hot tears quickly flow down my cheeks. Gradually I lost my strength. I did not even get to fight it. Until I could feel his sudden cessation, he also quickly released me as I chased the breath. ¡°Fuck!¡± he said sharply. He finally receded as he washed both palms of his face. I hear my own sounds, like a distressed child. I had no strength sitting on the floor. I could no longer speak due to excessive emotions. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said as he walked to the front door and left me. *** ¡°DORIS, PLEASE TAKE care of rence, and don¡¯t forget to give him his vitamins on time!¡± I ordered her while preparing to go to the office today. It has been a month since I returned to work. Dad will be retiring soon, and I will rece him as president of our hotels. I am also preparing myself for another challenge that I will manage soon. The time I spend in the office is no longer a joke because of the work to do every day. ¡°Good morning, Ma¡¯am!¡± simultaneous greetings from the employees since they saw me. Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. I greeted them back, wearing a lovely smile on my face. ¡°Coffee, Madam?¡± ¡°Yes, please, Karen,¡± I simply said. I also went straight to my office. But even though I was not sitting on my working chair, I had already received a text from Lawrence. He invited me for a dinner date tonight. My heart blushed a little, and I felt the butterflies in my stomach burned my inside. There is nothing wrong if I agree, right? I finally found myself typing a reply. The huge smile stering on my face when Karen brought the coffee to my table make her brows arched a little. ¡°Hmm, what is that, Karen?¡± My brows twitched a bit as I sipped on my coffee. ¡°Peter is here,¡± she said with a sweet smile. Suddenly, the smile on my lips faded from what I heard. ¡°Okay, go ahead. Let hime in. Thanks for this.¡± I raised my coffee before she left me with a sparing smile. Momentster, I heard a faint knock on the door before it opened. My heart aches as I stared at him. His face was strong and defined while wearing a white shirt with a starched jacket and ck trousers. His hair was done nicely, eyes that told many stories that I¡¯ve loved hearing about. My heart was squeezing even more when I looked down at the bouquet of roses he was carrying. ¡°Hi, good morning!¡± he greeted me warmly. I got up from my seat to meet him. Even before I could get close, he took a step to kiss my cheek and handed me the bouquet of roses. Night Sky Night Sky THEN HIS HAND moved to my hair and slowly caressed it gently. ¡°I¡¯m sorry aboutst time. I was so drunk, I didn¡¯t know what I was doing,¡± he muttered closely. I shook my head and tried to paint a smile. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I shouldn¡¯t have done that to you either.¡± ¡°No, you were just true to yourself, Margaux,¡± he utters softly at me. I just nodded until silence suppressed us. Then Peter breaks his silence. ¡°Hmm, if you¡¯re free tonight, can I invite you to dinner?¡± I raised my head with a twinkle in my eyes. Lawrence also invited me on a date tonight . . . D*mn it! Perhaps he noticed my silence, so he spoke again. ¡°If you have any important things to do tonight, you can¡ª¡± ¡°No! I mean, yes! I¡¯m free for tonight,¡± I cut him off. His face immediately brightened. I think this is the possible way to make it up to him. After everything that happened between us, I will not just let him disappear from my life. When he left, I only had a problem with letting Lawrence know that I had canceled our dinner dateter. I quickly pulled my cellphone to the table and typed a text for him. He¡¯ll surely understand why I need to postpone our date tonight. After a long tiring day, the sun sets on. I quickly hovered over thepact mirror, applied a thinyer of lipstick and face powder, and left the building. I met Peter in the parking area, patiently waiting while leaning against his car. He looks very clean and nice while wearing his blue shirt unbuttoned at the cor with d jeans. ¡°Hi!¡± he greeted. He opened the car door wide for me. ¡°Thanks,¡± I whispered with a stern smile. ¡°Seatbelt, please,¡± he said before maneuvering the vehicle out of the building. I followed what he said. As usual, he drives as he used to, something that is not new to me. Along the way, I was also silent. I don¡¯t have anything to say at this point. Even from time to time, I could hear his deep sigh. Saying hello to him is hard for me to do. I felt something strange in my stomach, as if I just wanted to eat the anxiety I was feeling right now. Until we both shock by the sessive sounds of my cellphone. I immediately took it, and that¡¯s how my heart pounded when Lawrence¡¯s name registered there. I hurriedly cancel his call and let out a heavy sighed. Damn it! Why does he still need to call? My cellphone rang again, but this time I was wondering if I should answer it or not. ¡°Why don¡¯t you answer? That call might be important,¡± Peter said to me. ¡°Ah, n-not really. Just clients,¡± I said as I canceled his call again and decided to turn off my phone. Momentster, he stopped the car at a resto-bar. It was elegant, dark, and rxed. The resto-bar was divided into two parts: one for the customers who want to enjoy the dinner alone. At the same time, the other side has a stage where some customers can watch a live band. ¡°What do you want to eat?¡± he asked me as we sat down. I quickly look over the menu and ordered pasta. ¡°Are you on a diet?¡± He frowned at me then looked back at the menu he was holding. I did not answer. Instead, I just roam my eyes inside the resto-bar. This side is isted, notpared to the other side of resto which was a bit noisy due to some standing in front of the stage. ¡°How do you find this ce?¡± I utter with astonishment. ¡°I own this bar,¡± he replied quickly. ¡°Really, huh?¡± My smile widened because I could not help but marvel at his taste when ites to this matter. ¡°So, how do you rate my ce?¡± he asked with a wide smile. ¡°Hmm . . . The ambiance is good and rxing. This is the ce I will go back to when I¡¯m stress at work,¡± I said as I shrugged my shoulders. He nodded. He did not speak again because our order had arrived. Again, the table soaks into silence. I¡¯m notfortable in my seat. There seems to be a blockage in my throat that I can¡¯t figure out, so I only ate a little in the end. ¡°Can we stay here for a little longer? I just want to watch your live band here,¡± I told him while facing the dessert that had just arrived. He squared his jaw and looked over the crowd at the side. ¡°Okay then, let¡¯s just finish our food first,¡± he said atst. It was only then that I felt like moving the dessert he had ordered for me. Because when people started shouting on the other side of the restaurant. I used to sniff the dark chocte cake. ¡°Good evening, everyone!¡± Remembrance of a gentle voiceing from the stage. She wore an lesiastical ck dress paired with ck boots and her moon shadow-ck hair. My mouth was slightly open as I was hovering over her face more. Her skin looks like a radish white, which is even brighter when the spotlight shines brightly. ¡°Are you guys ready?¡± she said with her soft-tone voice. ¡°Yeah! You¡¯re a great idol!¡± the crowd response quickly. They also did not stop whistling and pping. Eager to watch her up close, I pulled Peter to huddle with those in front of the stage. I was almost deaf to the shouts of the people. No doubt, her voice is lovely. It was very soothing and pleasant to hear. ¡°I love you, Brigette!¡± Her fans were chanting wildly. Even I was brought into the crowd and apuded as well. We went back to the table when the song was over, but Peter was obviously quiet for a while. ¡°Ah, excuse me, I¡¯ll just go in the washroom.¡± I was left speechless. Maybe it¡¯s still notfortable talking to me. I just shrugged off my thoughts and went straight down the hall. But even before I could turn around in the corner, I was struck by a familiar bulk. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. He leaned against the wall while his arms were crossed over his chest. Even though it was dark in the ce, I knew him perfectly. My feet immediatelynded on the ck tile because of his insane gaze on all his grandeur. I was even pushed from the stand when he went straight and stepped closer to me. My heart stopped beating. I was surprised again by his aristocrat appearance. And his whole dark He stopped in front of me. He bowed his head and looked at me with an angry and rough face. ¡°That¡¯s why you don¡¯t answer my calls. And you¡¯ve turned off your phone to make sure there¡¯s no fuss on your date,¡± Lawrence said sharply. My throat dried up, I was nervous about backing off, but unfortunately, he held my wrist tightly. There was no time to protest because he pulled me out of the fire exit. That¡¯s where his car was waiting. ¡°What are you doing?!¡± He did not answer but opened the door. ¡°Get in my car, or I¡¯ll take you inside,¡± he threatened. Sweet Lunch Sweet Lunch ¡°LOOK, PETER IS inside, and I¡¯m sure he¡¯s waiting for me!¡± I caught the storm in his gaze after hearing my protest. He tightened his grip on me, and for a split second, he took me inside his car. Lawrence quickly attached me to the seatbelt so I could do nothing but fold my seat and look straight at the road. He also quickly turns to get on and drive the vehicle away from the restaurant. I was under his control. I could do nothing but join him. After all, I was also guilty of why I was stuck in this situation. After a long dying moment, I felt slowing down. I finally realized where he had taken me. ¡°This bridge . . .¡± I simply whispered to him. He parked his car on the side of the road. From here I can see the vast park where there are only a few people. ¡°What are we doing here?¡± I asked him while full of wonder. Instead of answering, he turned off the engine of his car and got off. He quickly opened the door for me and gently held my hand. I wanted to put my hands back on it, but he held it tightly. As we enter the park, the breeze is ruthless; the leaves fall to the ground. There sat the banks, and the tall trees, bermudagrass, and bushes grew around. ¡°Let¡¯s have a pic here,¡± he dered. I stared at him, full of astonishment on the face. I did not utter a word. I felt something tickle my feet up to my stomach because of what I found out. ¡°Hmm, didn¡¯t you find this romantic?¡± He finally let go of me and quickly headed to the back of his car. When he returned, he was carrying a basket. My lips parted slightly. I couldn¡¯t believe he was serious with what he said. He took arge nket from the basket and gentlyid it on thewn. Then one by one, he put there the food he brought. ¡°What we have here is a bacon sandwich, a pizza, a fried chicken drumstick, and a bottle of champagne!¡± I was amazed at how he organized those in a tupperware. Because I used to eat very little earlier, I immediately felt hungry. From the container, he pulled out a te, spoon, and fork. He acted agile and put food on the te and handed it to me. ¡°T-thank you,¡± I said, heat spreading all over my face. I saw his lip rise slightly in response. We ate quietly. He sat next to me as the moonlight poured on us. Honestly, this is my first time having a pic under the moon. It¡¯s pretty cool, and I found itpletely romantic. ¡°How¡¯s the food?¡± he suddenly asked, then poured a little wine into my ss. ¡°These are good,¡± I just whispered to him. I noticed the time he stopped eating. His eyes quickly fell on my lips. I didn¡¯t have enough time to get away from his long finger of the corder. Because he promptly pulled it closer to me. I swallowed as he touched the side of my lip to wipe it gently. My heart seemed to want toe out because of the strange heat he brought to me. ¡°That was slightly messy,¡± he muttered. I stoned with a dazzling, but a small smile yed in his mouth after seeing my reaction. I quickly stood up and left him almost to stop theughter from me. My heart felt up, full of shame that I had walked away from him. ¡°Hey, where are you going?¡± he chased. But I just ignored him. Until I reached the bridge connecting the other side of the park, I stood there and frowned at the beautiful view. This part is high, so the city below is almost an ant in my eyes. Until I could feel his natural scent behind me, I close my eyes when I feel his tender caress on my shoulder. We were in that position for a few minutes while inhaling the cold and fresh air before he spoke. ¡°As the years go by, my love for you remains pure. I have no one to love but you, Margaux,¡± he whispered in my ear. His hand covered my hand. I bit my lower lip. My breathing became rough and fast. My throat starts to tighten. My heart is pumping too hard. My stomach throbbed, and my back was shaking. ¡°You are the trap I want to fall into my whole life. You can deny me a few times, but your actions cannot deny how you feel,¡± he clearly said. I was out of breath. I can¡¯t move even if I try. My knees are gradually losing their strength as well. Not a secondter, he spins me to face him. He quickly locked me between his arms as he held onto the iron bridge. He bowed his head and looked at me intently. I could not take my eyes off him while trapped in his arms. Not a second after, he pushed something out of his pocket and hung freely on my lips when I noticed a red box that he immediately opened for me. A gasping silver ring with arge diamond in the middle struck me. ¡°I love you more than you know. I love you in my mind, body, and soul. Pleasee back to me and marry me, Margaux.¡± He put the ring on my finger and bowed his head to look at me equally. I did not realize my mouth was hanging half-open. Before I could say anything, his hand covered my cheek and kissed me. It is soft and slow. I close my eyes, and all I can feel is my feelings about him. My arms reached out and encircled on his thick and muscr neck. I moaned in between our kisses as I felt the pleasure. Heid his fingers on my spine and pulled me closer. I didn¡¯t want that kiss to end, but a call from his cellphone distracted us. We parted and kissed again before letting go. ¡°Y-you should answer your phone,¡± I murmured. ¡°D*mn,¡± he cursed vigorously. He did nothing but release me. He quickly pulled his cellphone out of his pocket. He frowned and Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. gritted his teeth as his eyes stared at the phone. ¡°Hello, Dad.¡± He left for a while, but from here, I heard them arguing. ¡°I¡¯m not responsible for her!¡± Lawrence growled. I noticed when he shook his head and rubbed on his forehead. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll catch her.¡± After talking, he dropped the call and turned to me again. His face is more serious now, and his eyes are darker than before. ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here,¡± he said before touching my wrist. *** WE JUST KEPT quiet while traveling home. His dark face and the periodic tension of his jaw have not disappeared since we set sail. I let out a heavy sighed and just chose to turn my attention to the road. Maybe something was bothering him earlier. After he talked to his father, his mood changed. His features darkened and became more mysterious this time. I can¡¯t even read what¡¯s on his mind right now. I shifted on my seat and looked at him with a puzzled expression, and since I could no longer bear his silence, I spoke. Sweet lunch 2.0 Sweet lunch 2.0 ¡°IS THERE A problem?¡± He nced at me for a moment before speaking. ¡°Dad asked me a favor.¡± He did not continue what he had to say because his jaws tightened first. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I understand.¡± I draw a frugal smile on what I said after I caressed his arm. Again he sighed heavily. He took a few more minutes before we reached our house. I stayed in the car for a few more minutes because I didn¡¯t want to end the night like this. I looked down at the ring I was wearing. I even slightly caressed it and once again marveled at its quality and beauty. My heart turned into a sunburned red. I never thought I would wear it a second time. ¡°It looks more beautiful when you wear it,¡± Lawrence muttered. I was overwhelmed, my heart pounding even more as I watched him closes the gap between us. ¡°Thanks for the ride. I-I better go,¡± I said in a stammer. He just nodded, but I noticed his dark and scorching stares at me. I felt my knees trembled a bit. I feel like he absorbs my energy even when he does nothing. ¡°I¡¯ll call you when I get home. I promise,¡± he muttered closely. I was not able to close my eyes, even though his hot breath hit my cheek. I don¡¯t want this moment to I¡¯m stress-free, and I felt anew. The distance we have is even smaller. And as I was expected, his lips covered mine. It was a sweet and soft real kiss. The kiss that took my breath away and burning all the worries of yesterday. That same night I could not sleep thinking of him. I still feel the butterflies churned in my stomach and the bees singing in my ears. I also nced at the ring on my finger several times and the smile that had not disappeared from my lips. The next day I received a bouquet of roses from him. I also could not help but shudder because of the attached letter from it. I¡¯ll pick you up at lunch. See you! ¡°Hey, who¡¯s sending the flowers?!¡± Karen went into my office with a cup of coffee and simply nced at the letter on the card. I just smile at her. I fold the card and put it in my drawer. ¡°Hmm . . . That smile of yours? That¡¯s where I¡¯m really nervous!¡± she said to me with a raised eyebrow. ¡°Uhm,¡± I shook my head. ¡°Are you in love again?! Admit it; you¡¯re blushing!¡± she teased. Blushed burned through my cheeks, I could not deny what she said. I know it is not easy to trust again. It was not easy to open my heart to him again, but I wanted to gamble again and make rence feel like he had aplete family. I look indefinitely at the clock, and every move of its hand coincides with the beating of my heart. I could barely concentrate on the papers in front of me either because Lawrence upied my mind. I also want to pull the time so we can meet again. Karen walked hurriedly to my office until the appointed time and informed me that Lawrence is in the lobby. ¡°In fairness, Madam! It looks like he is better than Peter!¡± Karen eximed. I sighed at that. Instead of repeating what she said, I instructed her to let Lawrencee into my office. I almost hurriedly applied lipstick and retouched the blush on while waiting for him to enter. The door begins to open, and my heart was pounding hard. Then finally, Lawrence walked through the door wearing a hot smile on his face. ¡°Hi!¡± he greeted. My heart immediately jumped even more as his killer dimple shed on his cheek. He looks magnificently hot in his office attire. His dark features and rough look makes my heart thumping hard. No matter what he wears, it will suit him, especially with his broad shoulders and round legs. ¡°Hi. Pleasee in!¡± I stuttered. I quickly got up from my working chair and greeted him. ¡°Did you like the flowers that I sent to you?¡± He lowered his head down and stare at me closely. My lips parted because he almost kissed me as we approached each other. ¡°Y-yes. It¡¯s beautiful,¡± I said. ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I didn¡¯t make a callst night. My battery was drain.¡± I nodded uncontrobly. The truth is that I really waited for his callst night. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I also fell asleep right away.¡± I quickly looked down, knowing that his hovering over my face more. We were in that position for a few more minutes before he spoke again. ¡°Shall we go?¡± It was nice to have a hand in front of me. Without hesitation, I reached for his hand, and as we walked out of the building, the employees did not hesitate to look at us. Karen was also one of those who were cheering for me silently. They know what I went through before. And I¡¯m happy that they¡¯re all by my side, even in the happy time I have. *** AFTER ABOUT HALF an hour¡¯s drive we reached a famous hotel. I just have Lawrence¡¯s attention even though many look at him, thinking they¡¯re going to have a stiff neck. The hotel lobby is Mediterranean-inspired, from the red tile to the chandelier that dances across the luxurious hall. There¡¯s also a grand staircase leading the way up to the next floors. ¡°Good afternoon, Mr. President!¡± A uniformed man greeted us and took his key. I¡¯m shocked! Is he the owner of this luxury hotel? He never told me how big his properties were. I nced at him for a moment. I watched his dark features and how he looked so intensely hot in his suit. Lawrence held my hand gently. He looked at me over his shoulder and smiled broadly. I¡¯mpletely fascinated with his mouth and how everything going smoothly when I¡¯m with him. We headed into the elevator, and while inside, I was almost deafened by the strength of my heartbeat. I¡¯m actually feeling nervous right now. The more wended on the 30th floor, the more my heart almost came out of my chest. I thought we were just going to eat out. He didn¡¯t mention where he would take me. He seemed to read what was on my mind when we stopped at a big one-door. ¡°This is my ce. This is where I spend my time, mostly when I have free time,¡± he said as he swipes the door open. I stepped in, but even before my eyes rolled around, I was amazed. The floor was tiled in fine marble. The embroidered silk sofas surrounded arge t-screen television, and exquisite paintings hung from the rich red wall. I was shocked when I felt his gentle hand on my shoulder. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. ¡°Just feel at home. I just change,¡± he said before he left and entered one of the rooms there. I had the opportunity to look around the entire living room, and the one that caught my attention was the photo on the dresser. Heart Melted Heart Melted I STEPPED FORWARD to approach it, and I was immediately amazed at what I saw. It was a family picture¡ªa teenage version of Lawrence with his mom and dad. Now I am even more observant of how handsome he is even at a young age. I also take a short nce at his dad, who is almost a carbon copy of him. And his mom, she looks stunning wearing a white dress. There is also no denying her beauty and whiteness while smiling next to Lawrence. I was shocked to hear the door open on my side. I immediately put down the frame I was holding and faced him. I watched his dark eyes looking hard at the frame I held earlier. ¡°Y-you have a beautiful family,¡± Imented. He just nodded and stepped closer to me. He has not lost his dark look since before. So I awkwardly step back. I feel there is something wrong with what I did. ¡°I want to show you something,¡± he said as he passed me by. Immediately my feet stepped to follow him. In a few moments, I was exposed to the grandeur of this kitchen. My lips are amazed as I go around his kitchen, which has a professional design. I honestly was amazed by the costly furnishings and the tiniest touches. In particr, I am running my fingers over his clean granite countertops, some steel equipment that is not worth a joke. ¡°Your kitchen was nice,¡± I slowly utter. ¡°This is actually my favorite ce, next to the bedroom.¡± I leaned over and nced at him, now wearing an apron. He became even hotter, wearing a white T- shirt and khaki shorts in his very manly and neatly way. The butterflies in my stomach also became naughty because of the attention I was giving to him. ¡°I hope you don¡¯t mind I¡¯m wearing this. I¡¯m morefortable wearing it when I¡¯m at the kitchen,¡± he said with a half-grin face. He sounded apologetic, but I don¡¯t even care. He still looks hot wearing his apron. ¡°Nope, you look really hot.¡± I immediately averted my eyes after I said that. He chuckled lightly and walked toward me. I quickly looked up at him in utter surprise. His eyes look intensely hot. He was a few more minutes in front of me as if I was not tired of staring. He licks his lower lip and exhales sharply. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll cook for our lunch. Stay there and rx.¡± He quickly turned his back on me. On the other hand, I was just breathing well when he started to open the double door refrigerator, and one by one, the ingredients came out to cook. ¡°Do you do this often?¡± I immediately asked. ¡°Yes. Usually, when Ie out of the office, I stay here sometimes. I cooked my own food every day.¡± I nodded and chose to sit in the high chair as I watched him cook, but I could not sit still. Every time he turned around to face the granite counter, my heart almost jumped with excitement. His muscles protruded, and those blue corded veins show off no mercy. As he slices the vegetables in front of me, my chest tightens even more. His lips move slightly in a sexy way. Even though his forehead was somewhat wrinkled, it¡¯s still attacked me differently. I was immediately able to sit up when I nced at him. I cleared my throat and looked away. Gosh! I felt like I was profusely sweating when I sat down. ¡°Ah, maybe you¡¯ve already tasted a lot of foods. How about your mom?¡± I say as I tried to strike a conversation. He stopped for a moment in action and stared into my eyes. I swallowed hard. Again I feel like I said something wrong. ¡°She passed away when I was fifteen in a car ident,¡± he lowly said. I bit my lip hard because of my straightforward question. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to offend you.¡± He just shook his head, and then a frugal smile shed on his lips. He turned his back on me again and continued cooking. I felt awkwardly sitting in my seat. I think I was verycent and thought about it. I also became very insensitive. It did hurt me that I did not even know anything about his personal life. Whether he has siblings or not or if his parents are still alive. I looked down at the ring I was wearing. I bit down my lip hard. I gently caressed it. Am I right in epting the ring I am wearing? Or should I think more often? ¡°Food is ready.¡± He quickly turned around and set the table. I also help him. I opened some drawers and pulled out a fork and knife, as well as sses. He then ced two ravioli dishes loaded with parmesan and mushroom cheese, shrimp fried and drunk in a sweet, creamy sauce. The rich and aroma of a dish wafted down on me. I suddenly felt starving. My mouth watered the moment I spotted the triple fudge delight. ¡°I hope you¡¯re not on a diet.¡± He smiled broadly at me. ¡°No. I mean, Not so much!¡± My mouth-foaming uncontrobly. ¡°Good, let¡¯s eat then,¡± he said with a silly smile on his face. I adjusted my seat and began to pick up the knife and fork. Then he put me wine in a long ss and hand it to me. ¡°Thanks.¡± He leaned on the table and watched me the whole time. I noticed he was not eating, so I nced at him. ¡°How¡¯s the food?¡± ¡°The food was as delicious as you promised.¡± I smiled. The pasta tasted immensely satisfying. It melted on my tongue. I want to give him an apud for what he cooked for me. ¡°I¡¯m d you like it.¡± He smiled at me before picking up his knife and fork. ¡°Carrick called me early this morning. It his birthday today. You want to drop by with me?¡± Since I did not have a meeting scheduled today, I agreed to his question. Cindy really invited me, so I have no problem. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. ¡°Okay,¡± I answered. *** AFTER WE ATE, we went straight to the vi where we would take rence to join at the party. I noticed Dad¡¯s car in the garage. They definitely didn¡¯t have work to do today. My heart was thumping hard against my chest. I don¡¯t know what can happen when they talk again. I nced slightly at Lawrence. His face still looks the same¡ªdark and stoic. He seems to have been thinking a lot since long ago, and I cannot guess what it is. ¡°Good afternoon, Ma¡¯am,¡± Doris greeted us warmly. ¡°Oh, good afternoon too, sir!¡± Doris shyly said to Lawrence. Lawrence nodded and took rence from her, and he immediately smiled at his father. ¡°Good boy!¡± Lawrence utter happily. My heart melted, tears tempting to spilled in my eyes. They are adorable to look at as a father and son. A small smile formed on my lips as Lawrence turned his gaze at me. ¡°Say hi to mommy!¡± There I simply wiped the tears that wanted to reach my cheeks and avoided looking at him. ¡°Ah,e in first. I¡¯ll just change my clothes,¡± I said lowly. Goodbye Goodbye I QUICKLY TURNED around to go upstairs to change. It was there that my tears finally flowed. I can¡¯t do it even if I stop it. My heart was being hit and twisted in both fear and excitement. Is this the right time to ept him back into my life? Maybe I just make mistakes and send in my own emotions. But when I saw Lawrence hugging his son, all my worries seemed to go away. Before I went down, there was a concrete decision formed in my mind. This time I will decide not just for me but for the sake of rence. Loudughter greeted me as I went back to the living room. I immediately noticed Mommy carrying rence while Dad and Lawrence were in front of them. ¡°You¡¯re so adorable!¡± I heard Mommy say. I smiled, then I approached them. ¡°How was my baby rence doing? I asked as I enter the living room. ¡°He¡¯s my grandson. I¡¯m no doubt about it,¡± Dad said, then he tapped Lawrence¡¯s right shoulder. I nced at him. His lips twitched a little and scratched his nape a bit. I also noticed that his cheek was a little red with the attention Dad gave him. My heart immediately overflowed with joy. I expected Dad and Lawrence not to have a good confrontation, but I was wrong. I still remember that he was still building me up with Lawrence back then. He even mentioned my vacation in San Simon and my exclusive dating with him. By the way, ever since, his vote has gone to Lawrence. I shook my head and smiled a little. ¡°You might even be caught on your way. It would be better if you set sail,¡± Mom told me and smiled with a hint of amusement. I bit my lower lip. ¡°Be careful driving, son. You are with your family,¡± Dad told Lawrence. I never heard Lawrence answer, but based on the look of the two and his nod to Dad, I am sure they understand each other. It took a few minutes for his car to run, but I still couldn¡¯t get over what happened earlier at home. Too awkward if I ask him more about that. But then, he broke the silence and spoke. ¡°I already talked to your dad. I mentioned to him our wedding n.¡± Even though I knew what he was going to say, I was still shocked by what he said. ¡°What did he say?¡± He nced at me for a moment. I could feel the heaviness and the intensity of his gaze at me. I was immediately nervous. Didn¡¯t they have a good conversation? ¡°It is up to you whether you will ept my marriage offer,¡± he muttered darkly. I noticed that his perfect jaw tightened after he said that. The expression on his face grew darker, and Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. his eyebrows could not be painted. I wanted tough at his reaction. Does he know my answer to his question? I don¡¯t think so. I decided just to erase the attention on the road while rence was on myp. I chose to enjoy the ride with these two handsome boys. Maybe I have nothing more to ask for now, but the time wille when we will be a whole family. After about a half-hour drive, we reached the vi where Carrick and Cindy stayed. Many cars are already lined up in the parking lot. Lawrence and I are heading straight inside the house. He only gave a few nods and smiles to the guests we met even though I noticed their surprise at Lawrence¡¯s child load. ¡°Bestie! Finally, you¡¯re here!¡± Cindy happily weed me. She carries her son Kyzler. After our hug, the smile on her lips gradually faded as she nced at Lawrence beside me. ¡°What is the meaning of this?¡± she mumbled lowly at me, then pulled me away from Lawrence. ¡°We¡¯re just . . .¡± I can¡¯t continue what I have to say. ¡°Peter is here, and he was looking for you earlier.¡± Her eyes almost widen. I gasped. Here we go again. How long should I exin to them that Peter and I are not dating? ¡°We talkedst night, and we¡¯re good,¡± I say as I looked away. She stared at me for a moment before I could hear his deep sigh. ¡°How about Elliesse? Does she know about this?¡± she asked confusingly. It was as if a lot is troubling her mind. ¡°I-I don¡¯t know . . .¡± I shook my head down. She blew out a frustrated breath. Slightly hover the hair and shake. Gradually, a great nervousness arose in my heart after I saw her reaction. ¡°She¡¯s back. She camest night from New York. Carrick told me.¡± I was overwhelmed. I quickly grabbed the ring I had been wearing sincest night. I do not know how I should feel after hearing this news. ¡°Alright, I just warned you. I just don¡¯t want Lawrence and Peter to argue anymore. It¡¯s good that you made everything clear,¡± she said in relief. My lips quirk a bit. I want to ask if Elliesse¡¯s failed marriage continues. I¡¯m sure she knows the answer because of Carrick. But I was afraid to find out for myself. I tightly gripped the ring I was wearing. I was slightly relieved by what I did. This is the only hope I have right now, so there is no reason for me to be nervous like this. ¡°It¡¯s better toe inside and join them,¡± she said. Because there were so many people inside, I did not immediately have a chance to talk to Lawrence, who seems to enjoy the conversation with his colleagues. My friends from different schools and elite societies are also invited to the party. I spoke to some of the guests before I noticed Peter talking to one of my female ssmates in college. His dim eyes looked at me. He holds in his right hand the ss rock with only wine. And my heart pounding hard in my chest. *** PETER SAID GOODBYE to his colleagues and stepped in my direction. I stand in froze. But I quickly said goodbye to my colleagues and greeted him. ¡°Peter . . .¡± But he did not speak, his jaw sets hard, and he looked more dark and ruthless in a short distance. ¡°If you came here just to apologize, then apology epted!¡± His voice sounds delighted. But the expression on his face was always dark to me. I sighed heavily. The truth is I really want to apologize not only for what happenedst night but for all my sins. I am very grateful to him, and I cannot just throw him away lightly. ¡°Can we talk for a moment?¡± I ask. He first poured the wine into the ss beforeying it on one of the tables. ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here.¡± He grabbed my arm and gently imitated the back of Cindy¡¯s house. There are also a few people in the backyard, unlike inside, where are mostly guests. I chose to sit in a wooden chair facing the swimming pool as he remained standing next to me. Silence fell like cold water in the pool. There will be no noise if you do not jump, or leaves will fall from the tree. Sweet Date Sweet Date I LICK MY lower lip. It felt for a moment on my side before I opened my lips. ¡°Uhm, I just want to apologize for what I didst night. I haven¡¯t been able to say goodbye to you properly,¡± I started. But he did not answer; only a heavy sigh was released. I looked up at him, and those dark and piercing eyes looked down on me. ¡°You¡¯re not here just to say sorry for what happenedst night, are you?¡± he said in a baritone voice. My former courage to stare at him is gradually dissolving. I lowered my head down ashamedly. My heart, which had been beating so hard before, seemed to speed up even more because of what he said. ¡°I saw you with Lawrencest night. You also came together today.¡± I swallowed hard. I closed my eyes to stop the tears from falling in my eyes. I also bite down my lip hard and sp my hand tightly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I understand. I always will, Margaux,¡± he said in a low tone. My tears kept falling. I felt guilty. He will surely not forgive me for hurting him. I only used him for the sake of my self-interest. I didn¡¯t even think about how he would feel just in case. I used him for my own sake of happiness and did not think about how he felt. ¡°I¡¯m sorry . . .¡± I finally say. Instead of speaking, he chose to sit next to me. His hand slowly reached up and wiped my tears gently. ¡°Shh. You don¡¯t have to say sorry for everything that you¡¯ve had done. I want to apany you and take care of you during those times. It¡¯s my choice not to leave you behind. Because that is what you deserve for the very first ce,¡± he said in a hushed voice. My heart ached even more at the words he uttered. I felt really guilty for all the shit that I¡¯ve done to hurt him. The word forgiveness is not enough to alleviate the pain I gave him. I didn¡¯t even think about it. I crossed the gap between us to hug him tightly. I heard his softughs and his tight hug in between my burst of emotion. As usual, it was still nice to be locked in his arms. His sweet smell and the strong heartbeat that sounded like music to my ears were still delicious. I will definitely miss him so much. I will surely miss everything about him. His sweetness. His loving touch and his warm and soothing hug. I will definitely miss all of that. *** MY EMOTIONS ARE mixed down on the phone. I received a call from Lawrence. He invited me on a date tonight. I¡¯m kinda excited. I feel like I am moving faster and have the strength to finish work early. ¡°Hmm, are you blooming again, Madame?¡± Karen smiled; her eyes shined with amusement. I smiled back. I got up, packed my things, and prepared myself to go home. ¡°See you tomorrow, Karen!¡± I said. I just left her with a sweet smile before I left my office. I even heard her temptation of me that I just ignored. I got straight to my car and quickly drove home. When I got home, I immediately kissed rence. ¡°How¡¯s your day, my little handsome?¡± I ask. Even though I knew it would not answer, I still enjoyed talking about it. How can he just smile and giggle as I bite? ¡°Ah, Doris, you take care of rence first. I¡¯m just going to have a meeting so I can stay upte.¡± ¡°Yes, my sister will take care of rence,¡± she said sweetly. *** I LEFT HER with a stern smile before climbing the stairs. I quickly took a shower and got dressed. I wore a beige-fuchsia pink dress made of a soft fabric. My hair cascaded down at the back of my shoulder and let the wind swept through my chocte hair. I lightly applied lipstick and light blush on. I stared at my reflection in the mirror, wearing the sweetest smile that I wore the whole day. It hasn¡¯t gone away since Lawrence, and I probably had dinnerter. I heard a few knocks from the door and followed by Doris¡¯s lively voice from outside. ¡°Lawrence is here!¡± My heart was pounding fast as I quickly grabbed my sling bag and walked through the door. I quickly stepped down the stairs like a teenager eager to see her crush. My heart was thumping so hard against my ribcage as I notice his familiar features. He was seated at the couch like a Greek God. He hugged the child on hisp as it yed softly. A soft smile formed on my lips as I watched how close he was to his child. It was as if I did not want to step my feet closer because I was content to watch them from here. Until Lawrence lifted his gaze and darted on me, the familiar flicker and constriction of my heart immediately restored my vices. ¡°Hi!¡± I greeted. He stood up and stepped closer to me, looking very serious and intimidating. His natural dark eyes, reddening lips, prominent jaw, and killer dimple on both cheeks give me even more excitement. ¡°You look gorgeous, Mommy!¡± he said, waving at me using rence¡¯s tiny fingers. ¡°Tell your Daddy bolero that his style is worn out!¡± I stared at him then raised an eyebrow. ¡°Your Mommy¡¯s naughty. Maybe she has a period today?¡± Those pearly teeth appeared while he was grinning. ¡°Hey! Be careful on what you¡¯re saying to the kid!¡± My eyes widened and threw him a deviltry-look. ¡°Your Mommy¡¯s a really naughty child. Do you want me to kiss her, so she doesn¡¯t get angry?¡± he said and looked at me with imploring eyes. My tender smile hung on my rosy lips. I thought it was just a joke, but his seriousness was on his face. I lick my lower lip and turned my gaze to rence. I could feel the reddening of my two cheeks in the attacking shame for myself. ¡°It would be better . . . let¡¯s go!¡± I stammered and stomped my feet towards the door. I heard his soft grinned under his breath. But I just ignored that and stepped out of the mansion. While riding in his car, I could not help but be nervous. The pressure and the flow of excitement overwhelmed me. The natural smell that is already familiar to me adds to the tightness of my breathing. His scent was addictive. It was teasing my nostrils that made me high and shudder. It was as if I suddenly wanted to lean on his shoulders and lock myself in his big arms. My face was Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. reddening at my own thoughts. I lick my lower lip and try my best to stay calm and steadying my breath. I just looked back when his cellphone rang on the dashboard. He slowly picked up the device and read the received text. He let out a heavy sigh before returning it to the dashboard. I can¡¯t help but nce at him. His jaw twitched at the same time as his dark gaze on the road. His brows creased, and his face tensed. I do not understand what is bothering him now. Samuel Saavedra Samuel Saavedra ¡°DAD TEXTED ME. I¡¯m being sent to San Simon today. Let¡¯s have dinner there too.¡± He did not wait for my answer because he quickly changed and deviated from the road. His face immediately turned cold; hardened eyes stared straight ahead. I firmly bit my lip and watched the car move as we left the city. I think we are running at a speed of ny at these times. He was just quiet the whole trip. His sudden coldness already shook my heart. Ice seemed to cool his gaze on the dark road. I adjusted my seat as we entered San Simon. My thoughts are getting heavier, my pulse beyond wild now. This is actually my first time meeting his father. I¡¯ve heard a lot of good about him, but the consequence is that he is strict and far from everything. ¡°We¡¯re here,¡± he whispered in a low voice. I cleared my throat, looking up at the open and lofty fence that seemed to be waiting for our arrival. When his car parked opposite the luxurious door, he turned to me. His cold eyes were freezing me. I can¡¯t even utter a word, even the blink I did not do. He grabbed my hand, slowly caressing it like I am the most precious gem he had. He carefully followed the finger between it and tightened our grip. ¡°Stay by my side whatever happens,¡± he said carefully. His cold expression is gradually reced by warmth and ttery. He licked his lower lip and looked at me with hot fiery that soothing in away that melted my heart. I was no longer surprised at the beauty of their house, but I still could not help but roll my eyes inside. I feel like I¡¯m getting smaller from standing up. The ss chandelier above my head and the two grand stare-case weed me. The windows are alsorge, and the curtains deliberately kiss the white floor. ¡°Lawrence, son!¡± I immediately looked up at the main staircase. And I saw the man at his old age staring down at me. I quickly turned to Lawrence. His perfectly sculptured jaws were tightly clenched, and his dark, brooding eyes looked intense. ¡°Dad,¡± he said in a baritone voice. He started down the luxurious staircase. I can¡¯t deny that they have a lot inmon. They had the same features¡ªstarted from his tousled not-so-dark hair, down to his prominent cheekbone with high arc nose and thin lips. But his face nks like a catalog model, but he had a neat, smooth, and magnificent beneath his aristocrat skin. I held my breath as I waited for it to descend. His eyes were fixing on me. It openly visits my whole being, and I find it difficult for me to breathe in. ¡°Dad,¡± Lawrence greeted him again from the bottom. He patted the child on the shoulder before ncing at me. His thick eyebrows were furrowed together as he looked at me with profound scrutiny. ¡°I¡¯d like you to meet Margaux Collins, my girlfriend.¡± My body just froze as my lips pursed tight. I never thought he would introduce me as his girlfriend to his father. ¡°Collins?¡± ¡°Yes, Dad. The daughter of Rudolfo and Leticia Collins.¡± ¡°The owner of Collin¡¯s Hotel?¡± His tone casual and light. He just nodded then turned to me again. ¡°Uh, nice to meet you, Sir!¡± I gave him a frugal smile. Like Lawrence, he just nodded at me before facing Lawrence again. ¡°How was the resort? I want you to make sure we don¡¯t have a problem there. I also want you to talk to Franco about the uing harvest.¡± Every word thates from his mouth had an authority. ¡°Yes, Dad, I fixed the problem there,¡± Lawrence said. I was left speechless as he walked straight away from us. ¡°Carolina!¡± His loud voice calls. His voice was echoing in my head that made me quivered. ¡°Why, Samuel?¡± An older woman is approaching. He was wearing an apron and gently wiped it with a wet hand. ¡°Is dinner ready?¡± He asked in a deep voice to the neer. But instead of answering, the woman quickly turned to Lawrence next to me. ¡°Is that you, Lawrence?! It looks like you are even more handsome today!¡± she eximed. She also did not hesitate to hug Lawrence by my side. ¡°I miss you so much, son!¡± she delightfully said. Lawrence chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you too, Auntie!¡± Lawrence answered while hugging her tightly. When they parted, that¡¯s when thedy nced at me. ¡°Ah, this is Margaux, my girlfriend.¡± The amusement smile appeared on her face as she looked at me boldly. ¡°Why, she¡¯s such a beautifuldy, Rence!¡± she said before grabbing my two shoulders and ncing at me. ¡°G-good evening,¡± I said timidly. ¡°Good evening too, hija. You shoulde to the dining room. Samuel and I prepared a lot of food.¡± He finally let me go and walked into the dining room first. We approached the table at the same time as Manang Carolina said. He cooked a lot of dishes for us. It looks like we¡¯re having a fiesta with the amount served on the table. Samuel Saavedra sat down in an oversized mahogany chair elegantly. It was in the capital while Lawrence and I were on his right. ¡°What do you like to eat?¡± Lawrence muttered close to me. I bit my lower lip and nce over the five dishes and two soups in front of me. Not only that but there are also three types of dessert served at the table. ¡°Uh, anything,¡± I just whispered to him. I heard his small grin before he served me the tenderloin steak with potatoes. He also served me some warm soup and creme br?l¨¦e in front of me on a saucer. I was secretly disappointed. Does he want me to ruin my figure by eating that fatty food? I cleared my throat and just nodded. ¡°Okay, thanks,¡± my lips said. Since I had no intention of refusing to eat, I quietly found out that I had eaten it. Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. The table sank into silence. Samuel remained stoic, and he was just as quiet as Lawrence. I feel there has been tension between the father and son since he introduced me as his girl. His sudden seriousness upied my mind. I became more alert to what might happen between the two of them. *** MY HEART SPEEDS up as I notice Samuel put down his pork gracefully. He was very subtle when it I slowly lift my eyes to meet his gaze. Once again, my heart was pounding with nervousness because of his earnest gaze on me. ¡°Margaux, I heard about Rodolfo retiring soon, and you will be the new president of Collin¡¯s hotel?¡± I cleared my throat first before nodding affirmatively. ¡°Yes, Sir, I¡¯m actually starting to work as the new president of hotels and other family businesses.¡± He just nodded and did not respond to what I said. Even though the truth is, he obviously has no real interest in me. Instead, he turned to Lawrence. ¡°Son, am I not making you take care of our dinner meeting with Del¡¯fierro¡¯s?¡± I quickly looked down at what I was eating. I no longer need to ask who he is referring to¡ªElliesse¡¯s family. Irresistible Irresistible ¡°WE¡¯RE VERY SORRY, Mr. President. Please ept our sincere apology for our action,¡± the receptionist apologized. ¡°Next time, treat her as one of your bosses here.¡± My heart automatically stopped because of what he said. It was as if something was tickling my stomach that I could not understand. He asked for the key to his presidential suite, which they immediately gave him. ¡°I¡¯ll expect your resignation letter tomorrow morning at my table,¡± he ordered in a harsh and rude tone. Before I could speak, Lawrence pulled me away from there. I feel sorry for them. In fact, they are not at fault. It is also not a valid reason that they did that to be fired. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have done that to your employees!¡± I held on to his arm since we entered the suite. I was shocked when he looked at me. His face seems so dark and critical. His strong jawline clenched so hard. I know that he has been preventing his anger from their mansion. He scrubbed his stubble jaw and muttered a curse sharply. ¡°Please, don¡¯t dump your anger on your employees.¡± I still manage to control my voice even if I¡¯m scared inside. ¡°What I have will be yours one day. I will not allow the woman I will marry to be treated like that by the people I just pay!¡± My face began to heat up. My heart blushed. I felt like I was short of air in the chest, and I couldn¡¯t speak because of what he said. His eyes were gleaming with amusement. His anger seemed to dissolve quickly. ¡°I¡¯m not expecting anything from you. What I¡¯m trying to say is¡ª¡± My words left hanging because of what he did next. He took off his Armani suit one by one, then he loosened his tie and unbuttoned his shirt in front of me. My spine stiffens. ¡°W-what are . . . you doing?¡± He nced at me and then continued what he was doing right in front of me. Oh, God! He then finally got half-naked. My lips parted. I felt my chest tear, and my heart came out in shock. I swallowed hard, trying not to intimidate my nerves as I watched his broad shoulders and how strong they are like a farm boy. My knees wanted to shake when he wet his lips. His hand slid down slowly to his waist and wed his finger at the edge of his d-trouser. I breathe heavily, but my heart jumps even more when he starts to detach the belt of his pants. I bite my tongue and wait for his next move, but he suddenly stopped. His lips curve up into a smirk. ¡°I¡¯m taking a quick shower,¡± he says softly. ¡°Ow-kay . . .¡± I replied and cut my gaze at him. I quickly turned my back on him and paid more attention to the interior of the room. I feel the heat rush upon both my cheeks. Damn it! Why does he even have to undress in front of me? I feel the numbness of my whole body because of his closeness to me. His heat was already scorching my back. His arm wrapped around my waist even more. ¡°Rence . . .¡± I flinch as an unrestrained delight overwhelmed me. I want to me myself for why my body responds this way to his simple attachment to me. ¡°Let¡¯s take a shower together,¡± he whispered huskily. I closed my eyes tightly as he wrapped his arm around me. He nted a kiss on my neck down to my shoulder. He did that a few times before I could feel his gentle conversion towards me. We lock eyes for just a moment. My breathing fast and my heart rates faster. My lips spontaneously parted as he pressed against my back. Before I knew it, he leaned down to kiss me hungrily. Our lips smashed against each other, and tongues got tangled real slow. I grabbed the back of his head. Our kiss deepened because of that. His touch is getting heavier; hands rove all over my body. If I hadn¡¯t leaned on him, I might have fallen to the floor. His handse up to my neck and hair. I slowly felt my foot lift to the floor. The kiss broke for a moment because he lifted me. I have not been able to protest yet. My willpower evaporated from my chest. I gasped, trying to regain my senses. My entire body roared to life as I found myself inside the bathroom. Lawrence takes everything in control. He wasted no time. He pulled me right under the shower. My body shivered as he shoves me up the wall. Even before I could recover, I felt the pouring of warm water from the shower. ¡°Oh, shit!¡± I startled. ¡°Let me take off your clothes,¡± he said in a hushed voice. A lot of things immediately ran through my mind. His naked body, his brooding muscles, and how strong they were while wrapping around me. It was as if I was floating in a cloud at this time. I also no longer care about the vigorous pouring of water from the shower. Before I could even think straight, we were naked. I was stunned to process everything I was seeing. Now I stare at him more freely, closer and within my reach. The man I dreamed of for so long is now right in front of me. I feel my breathing tight and my heart racing out of control. He leaned me against the wall and caressed my wet cheek. ¡°You are irresistible,¡± he says while his thumb was caressing my cheek. I gasped as I hear those linesing from him. I still can¡¯t say what I want to say. He is too close that I couldn¡¯t even breathe properly. His dark eyes looking hard on me, then descended slowly to my parted lips. I felt the coldness of the wall behind me more as he pressed me harder from there. He leaned down and hovering my face more. Momentster, I felt his lips touch me again. His soft tongue stroked and delved deeply in mine and all the worries of today evaporated around us. *** A POWERFUL RAYS of res flood in the room as I open my eyelids. A smile shed from my lips as I realized where I was and who was next to me. My eyes were enthralled on him. I felt somehow magically draw to those serious and silent features of him. The same feeling I felt when I¡¯m with him. My heartbeat is even stronger now. I felt more joy as I stared at his handsome face. ¡°Good morning,¡± I murmured. I kissed him before I decided to get up. I n to cook for breakfast. After all, I didn¡¯t eat wellst night because of what happened, so I just thought of cooking. And because my dress was wetst night, I pulled out a bathrobe and put it on. I went straight to his kitchen and searched for something to cook in his fridge. I found some fresh eggs, Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. and then his refrigerator was nothing but water and energy drink. Since I have nothing to cook, I just ordered breakfast to his staff. Surprised Surprised I ORDERED A piece of pastry, sandwiches, and creamy hot chocte with whipped cream and coffee. Iid those well on the table, but before I could finish, I felt hands sping my hips and his delicate kisses on my neck and cheeks. ¡°Hmm, good morning. How was your sleep?¡± His voice was still husky from sleep. I was unable to answer because of the sequence of kisses on my neck down to my shoulders. I dare not to move. I dare not to even breathe as I felt his hand entering from below my bathrobe. My heart moved fast. I couldn¡¯t hear it, but damn! I could feel it, beating, pulsing, and thumping against my chest. ¡°It¡¯s better that we have breakfast so that we can go home early. I miss rence so much!¡± I took a deep breath and tried to calm my heart. ¡°We will, but before that, I want to show you something,¡± he said, then chose to sit in a chair and sip the coffee in front of him. I was dazzled. He still not wearing his shirt. And I am sure he is also not wearing his garments now. I couldn¡¯t help but to take notice of his clean skin, his tumbled dark hair, his lips that curled upward, his de nose, and his mncholy eyes. I swallowed as I worship his enticing features. My heart blushed a little. I just went back to the mood when he lowered the cup he was holding and nced at me. ¡°Uh, what is it then?¡± I ask casually, as I have already started to move the food in front of me and act I am not affected by his body. ¡°A few surprises for you.¡± He then shrugged his shoulders. I just shrugged at what he said. I quickly finished eating and went back to his room to take a shower. I also have clothes ready to wear on the bed when I came out of the bathroom. I saw a blue knitted dress and a pair of undergarments. My face blushed on my own thoughts. Why does he know my size? It¡¯s because he always has clothes ready to wear when we have an unexpected trip. I looked in the mirror. The dress was fit with me, and it enhances my body and my buttocks. In fairness, he is good at choosing clothes. I shook my head and turned my back on the mirror to get out of the living room. But Lawrence was not there, so I just turned my gaze to the cordless phone on the side table and typed our house¡¯sndline number to say hello to rence and ask Doris some things. Exactly when I hung up the phone, Lawrence came in from the door. He¡¯s wearing his in white shirt and unusual bleach jeans. Even so, the handsome man in his dress was still screaming. I startled, avoiding my shaking nerves as he looked straight into my eyes. I parted my hair lightly and averted my eyes to hide the redness on both cheeks. ¡°Are you ready?¡± I nodded as I continued to stare at the floor. Why couldn¡¯t I withstand his presence? He attacks my skin very strongly. Even the polish it brings to my heart. Holding my hand, we exited his suite. We immediately grabbed the attention of the employees. My eyes were fixed on the ground. I know that even if they say nothing, they still think badly of us. I could feel Lawrence squeezing my hand, so I looked up slightly. His face was stern and dark. The movement of his jaw is also bright while just looking straight at the road. In his car, I was the one who broke the silence when we spotted San Felipe on our way. ¡°San Felipe?¡± I asked with furrowed brows. He nodded. He just looked straight at the road that seemed nk¡ªthe same steady but the slightly ironic face that makes me feel ufortable in my seat. I straightened up and just looked at the enormous trees and fields we were passing by, indicating that we were already far from the city. When the car entered arge yard, it was at that point that I turned to Lawrence. ¡°Whose farm is this?¡± I asked him. ¡°Mine,¡± he said casually. I was no longer surprised, but knowing him as a city boy? I didn¡¯t think he was also interested in running a hacienda. ¡°We are going to live here as soon as we get married,¡± he said before maneuvering the car across from arge vi. My lips were parted. I was processing each of his words at the back of my mind. Did I hear it, right? We¡¯re going to live here as soon as we get married? ¡°Wanna see inside?¡± His brow hitched a little as he watched me dumbfounded. I looked up at the vi as he guided me out of the car. A modern house in the middle of a spacious hacienda. I can¡¯t believe what I see. I seemed to be in a book where the protagonists often live here. The beauty of the surroundings and some animals that run freely in the distance is indescribable. ¡°Do you like it?¡± He stood next to me, and at the same time, we looked up at the big house in front of us. ¡°This is . . . really beautiful!¡± my lips utter. I was startled when the big door opened, and an elderlydy came out. ¡°Wee, Lawrence, son!¡± thedy greeted us warmly, followed by two uniformed women. ¡°Is she Margaux you¡¯ve talked about?¡± She nced at me before Lawrence again. ¡°Yes, Auntie,¡± Lawrence replied. He grabbed my hand again and guided me closer to them. ¡°Sweety, this is Mirasol, who has been taking care of me ever since and her two housemates Tanya and Rica.¡± ¡°Good morning, Ma¡¯am, Sir,¡± they greeted us. I think they¡¯re in their twenties. The tall one named Tanya is not modest, while the one named Rica is thin with a slender body. I nced at Mirasol, and her body was also not medium in height and quite fat. I also noticed the gray hair that was starting to grow in her hair. ¡°Come on, and the food will be cold,¡± she said before pulling Tanya and Rica by the hand. At first nce, the mansion appears to have been standing for quite some time. Lawrence exined that he was only renovating it to match the style. I took a look around the room, which had a white floor, high windows, and huge curtains. All the newest features were built with no sentimentality for the old ways. Despite its antique outside style, you wouldn¡¯t expect the vi¡¯s interior to be fashionable. ¡°I grew up here. Mom and I live here for almost a year.¡± I nced at him as if I also glowed in his eyes as he looked at some figures and paintings hanging on the wall. ¡°My mom prefers to live here while dad wants to live in the city.¡± He just shrugged, then I was pulled into the elegant dining table. N?velDrama.Org owns this. The fragrant smell of food greeted us. Due to the long trip, I suddenly felt starving since I saw the food on the table. Surprised 2.0 Surprised 2.0 ¡°YOU MUST HAVE been hungry during the trip.¡± I looked at Mirasol, who was pouring juice into our long ss. I bit my lower lip. Suddenly it seemed like I didn¡¯t want to pick up the cutlery because of what she said. ¡°You should try my caldereta and kare-kare. That¡¯s delicious, hija!¡± This promise is still valid. I no longer refused because she had already put me a dish on my te. I looked up at Lawrence, his lips curved, not quite smiling but tilting as if they mean to. ¡°Uh, thank you . . .¡± I said, stopping to take a deep breath. It was good that they immediately left, so I was able to eat normally even though I was aware of Lawrence¡¯s asional nce at me. When we finished, he guided me to the second floor, which brought me even more excitement. ¡°What are we . . . doing here?¡± My heart was beating wildly. ¡°See for yourself.¡± He quickly grabbed the lock to open the door, where he took me to the vi¡¯s second floor. And in a sh, a well-painted room with a ck and white theme opened up to me. Some dividers were also full of toys and books. There was a crib in the corner of the room that I am sure for whom. ¡°This is for rence. If you want to add more details, just tell me.¡± ¡°This is too much, Lawrence.¡± I melt the denial of what is seen. ¡°He should benefit from all I have worked for because he¡¯s a Saavedra.¡± The low rumble of his voice is There¡¯s a reason why love is invisible, undetectable with anything but our minds. It can never measure the love of one father for his son. And I admire him for loving my rence unconditionally. ¡°Let¡¯s go check the other room,¡± he whispered, still holding my hand as I followed him until we reached thest door. He quickly turned the door open. My jaw dropped open as I roam my eyes inside. There was arge bed in the room and drapery curtains with a white painted wall. It had a floral scent and a sweet candy scent that moved me back to a sunny day. ¡°I want you to think of the designs of our future room,¡± he said smoothly. Gradually I could feel his gentle caress on my exposed shoulder. ¡°Our room?¡± I said again. I could feel every single pound of my heart in my chest. I looked out the window to stop the tears from forming in my eyes. I feel like I don¡¯t deserve it all. He bent slightly and peeked at me. It was there that the tears that I had been holding back finally fell. ¡°I don¡¯t deserve any of these. Elliesse, she¡¯s still your fianc¨¦e. She should be with you here because you deserve each other.¡± My voice already cracked from crying. He looked at me, gently rubbing my two cheeks. His eyes rested on me, touching my cheek with his thumb. He wiped my tears a few times. ¡°She¡¯s no longer my fianc¨¦e, then why you shouldn¡¯t? You¡¯re the mother of my child. You deserve all of these ¡¯cause you¡¯re soon to be Mrs. Saavedra.¡± Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. I bowed because I could no longer prolong his hot stares. My heart was already flowing, and I couldn¡¯t breathe anymore. ¡°I would give up anything in this world for you. I will not allow you to lose me.¡± ¡°Thank you, Lawrence,¡± that was all I could say, then I hugged him tightly. We went to the window where all my horizons were his. I have never wondered about that. He knows how to handle his money. He held on to the window sill, but I could feel his grip on me while the view was still far away. His eyes were full of unexined emotion. ¡°Mom bought a small farm here. It was only a few hectares then, but because Dad didn¡¯t want us to stay here, he ordered Mirasol to take care of the ce. We only go here every vacation, but Mom really wants to pursue her dreams. She really dreamed of it before, but she did not fulfill it because she passed away early.¡± He lowered his head and clenched his jaw tight. ¡°So I decided to pursue her dreams. Even though Dad didn¡¯t want to, I still tried to revive the rancho with the help of Mirasol and my brother.¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you tired? Your dad is always against your decision,¡± I utter lowly. A pain arose in my chest when I said that. ¡°Sometimes, I thought of giving up because there seemed to be no point in my suffering. But when I met you, some pieces gradually formed. You made me whole again, Margaux,¡± he said while grinning. I shook my head. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you. You¡¯re already sessful before you even met me.¡± I rolled up my eyes and chuckled lightly. ¡°It¡¯s just because of my charm, so I got a lot of investors during those times,¡± he said, then raised his lip as if to impress himself. ¡°Really, huh, Mr. Saavedra?¡± I twitched my brows at him. ¡°You do not believe me?¡± The smile yed even more on his lips. I smiled softly, my lips twitched, but there were no more words. ¡°Ah, you don¡¯t believe me?¡± To my great surprise, I could not move as he tightened my hips, and without a word, he lifted me onto the waiting bed. I almost stopped itching when he hit me. He caught my eye and slowly brought his face closer to mine. ¡°I don¡¯t know how you could have turned my world around, Margaux.¡± The baritone of his voice reverberating through my bones. I swallowed. The redness immediately went up on both my cheeks because of the words he was uttering earlier. He moved closer and hovering my face more. ¡°My baby is blushing,¡± he said huskily, lips forming a luscious grin. I want to hide the redness of both cheeks, but how can I do it if he still holding my two hands? But it was toote to do that because his lips hade down for me to kiss. It¡¯s just a quick kiss because I almost pushed him hard from hearing a series of knocks from the door. ¡°Hey, where are you going?¡± I heard his lowughter as I tried to get away from him. ¡°Sir Lawrence, you have a visitor. It¡¯s Sir Franco!¡± said a voice from outside. After hearing that, his bright face was immediately reced by a dark and serious Lawrence. ¡°Stay here. Don¡¯te out until Ie back,¡± he ordered in a cold formality. Surprisingly, I followed his instructions. Instead of staying here alone, I pulled my cellphone out of my bag. I checked my newsfeed on Facebook and finally thought of changing my status from single to in a rtionship with Lawrence. I immediately received likes and reactions from my friends, especially Cindy and Julia. I can¡¯t help but shudder to think I¡¯m not single anymore. Even though we are not legal with his father, I can say I am happy with whatever Lawrence and I have now. Franco Fontanilla Franco Fontani AFTER LOGGING OUT, I got bored getting up and wandering around the room. Until I thought about looking at the balcony, from here, I could see the wrangler jeep parked opposite the mansion. That was probably his brother Franco¡¯s car. I used to think he was an only child. In the family picture, because they were in Lawrence¡¯s condo, only three were in the photo. I just shrugged that thing and decided to go down because I felt thirsty. From the second floor, I could see the man Lawrence was talking to. Perhaps he is what they call brother Franco. I finally stepped down, causing me to grab his attention. His brown eyes were settling on mine, hard-rimmed and fixed. His dark brows were actually as graceful as Lawrence¡¯s. Like him, he has the chiseled body of an athlete, brooding muscles, and bulging features. He got that brown skin, and two zing eyes were full of intensity. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me you had a visitor?¡± His voice was deep but in a lighter tone. Lawrence violently confronted me, causing me to stop walking. His brows furrowed together, jaw tightened with disapproval. ¡°Uh, I just wanted to get some water.¡± My word passed on my lips. I feel like I did something wrong when I came here today. ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Franco Fuentani.¡± He offered his hand for a handshake. I did not hesitate to reach for his hand. Unlike Lawrence, his hand is a bit rough, which I definitely pull at work. ¡°And you must be?¡± ¡°Margaux Collins,¡± I utterly said. But Lawrence immediately withdrew my hand to his brother. He even hid me from him, who is now behind him. ¡°This is thest time you could touch her! If you repeat this, I don¡¯t know what I will do to you!¡± His voice wasced with anger. ¡°Hoah! I¡¯m just introducing myself to your guest!¡± He then chuckled. He also shook his head in front of the other. ¡°She is not my guest. If you have nothing else to say, you can leave Franco.¡± His lips twitched as if he was fighting a smile. ¡°So, then, let¡¯s just meet at the resort!¡± He gave me a glimpse before turning around and finally walking out. That¡¯s when Lawrence turned to me. His re sucked something out of me¡ªa red with an intensity that tightened my chest. ¡°I was thirsty, so I went down to get¡ª¡± I would have exined, but I couldn¡¯t even finish my word because of his vulgar curse. I bite my bottom lip. I also bend down my head quickly. What I¡¯ve done wrong? I didn¡¯t make a big deal. There is also nothing wrong if I meet his brother. He took a deep breath and let it all out in one sigh. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll get some water for you.¡± He quickly turned around, and after a while, he brought cold water for me. ¡°Thanks,¡± I murmured, jutting my bottom lip out, ¡°And I¡¯m sorry . . .¡± I added. Instead of answering, he stroked my hair, so I sniffed even more. ¡°Let¡¯s go home,¡± he said. ¡°When are youing back here, son?¡± Mirasol said as she led us out. ¡°Maybe I¡¯ll celebrate my birthday here. When I¡¯m not busy with work,¡± he replied to the old woman before kissing her on the cheek. Birthday? Then, his birthday is near. A smile shed on my lips before finally getting into his car. *** WHEN WE ARRIVED at the resort, Lawrence again instructed me not to approach his brother, which I agreed to. I also did not ask why. Maybe I will ask him at some other time when his head is no longer hot. I nced at him as we entered the hotel. His brows creased hard as if to meet the hot sun even though we were inside the hotel. His stares were also dark, and it does not even pay attention to the employees who greet him. I went to his suite while he was left in the lobby because of his important meeting with his brother Franco. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. I go straight to his room, but suddenly someone held my hand tight to prevent entry into Lawrence¡¯s suite. My eyes widened in shock since I met the man who had pulled me. ¡°Franco!¡± ¡°Hi!¡± His warm hot breath touches my skin. I did not form immediately because he locked me in the wall with his two arms. He¡¯s too closed that I couldn¡¯t even breathing. I gasped as I tried to escape from his strong arms. ¡°What is your problem?!¡± I said in a cold rage. ¡°Why are you naughty? I just want to find out what kind of woman my sister inw to be is?¡± His eyes slide down to my lips and watched my astonished face. ¡°Let go off me!¡± I said emphatically and insisted on getting out of jail in his arms. ¡°That¡¯s what I want from a woman, elusive,¡± he said and touched my two shoulders. Again, I felt the cold wall behind me. I could do nothing but greet his earnest eyes staring at me. I must admit, he really have a lot in his tantalizing eyes, that will surely catch a woman¡¯s heart. ¡°It¡¯s good that Lawrence and I have different tastes when ites to women,¡± he said with a bit of mockery. I just rolled my eyes. As if I care! If he weren¡¯t just Lawrence¡¯s brother, I would have definitely pped him. His gaze still settled before his lips lifted to mine. ¡°Kidding aside, you¡¯re pretty, though.¡± A husky voice His gaze lingered on my face for a moment before finally moving away. ¡°Well then, see you around, mydy,¡± he finally said and left me with a wink of an eye. I just breathed a sigh of relief when he left and walked away. But I can¡¯t help but be nervous about what will happen. I know that this is not ourst encounter. *** I WAS VERY dressed because I was going to San Felipe today. I found out that Lawrence¡¯s birthday was on the weekend. So, I wanted to surprise him. I told Mirasol not to let Lawrence know I was going there because I knew he would get angry when I went to rancho alone. In my car, I crossed the road to San Felipe. Just like when I first set my foot in the hacienda, I was still amazed at what I saw. The green trees were inviting, and the warm breeze weed me. ¡°Good morning, Ma¡¯am Margaux.¡± At the same time, Mirasol and the housemates greeted me. As before, their smiles are still gentle. ¡°Come in first to eat.¡± Mirasol came up to me. ¡°Thank you. Come with me for breakfast.¡± I like them. At first, they refused butter agreed. ¡°Ma¡¯am Margaux, can I ask a question? How did you meet Sir Lawrence?¡± Tanya asked me delightedly. Rica quickly kicked her to scold. My face heated, how the two were still trembling while pinching. ¡°I met him at the middle of the road.¡± Under The Sun Under The Sun THEY FROWNED AT what I said. My lips pursed a bit. I still couldn¡¯t help but warm my two cheeks every time I remembered that day. I felt embarrassed, but at the same time, I¡¯m thankful because I met him at my downfall. He taught me how to stand up again and trust in love again. ¡°Oh my gosh, you two really aren¡¯t ashamed of Margaux!¡± Mirasol rebuked them. The two did not answer; instead, they just quietly whispered while trembling. ¡°It¡¯s okay, the truth is, our first meeting was not really good. He¡¯s so arrogant. We also didn¡¯t like each other at first. But everything has changed when I fall deeply for him,¡± I revealed. My face heated more after I said that. I just shook my head when Tanya and Rica tempted me. We finished the meal quickly. At the same time, the delivery truck arrived with some tents, tables, and chairs that I rented from Saavedra Resort. ¡°Ma¡¯am, we¡¯ll take care of it!¡± Some of the employees I hired stopped me Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I can do it, and I like what I¡¯m doing,¡± I said and try to paint a smile. My sweat is dripping with the intensity of the heat of the sun. I also forgot to put on sunblock and wear long sleeves, so I¡¯m sure my skin will be red with heat. In the end, they did not force me to rest either because, in fact, now I just like to arrange tables and flowers to put on it. But I stopped what I was doing when I heard a car pulling towards here. My brows knitted, and my eyes squinted as I looked at the wrangler jeep that parked near us. My sweat became even more sticky on my body as I watched Franco descend, wearing dark brown shades. Yet his dark eyes still shine here. It also did not detract from wearing a leather jacket and stretched shirt underneath. His d-bleach jeans and his dark chocte boots fitted in him perfectly. I did not realize that he was close to me. If I had not heard his baritone voice, I would not blink. ¡°Good morning, mydy.¡± He smiled broadly at me and slowly pulled out his sunsses to expose his dark eyes. My heart pounded and gave me a warning sign as I watched his face. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± I tried to look in the other direction and talked about watching the following continuation of their work. Instead of answering, he nced around as if his eyes were looking for something. ¡°Where¡¯s Lawrence?¡± I rubbed my lips. The nervousness immediately went up to my chest. What if he told Lawrence I was ¡°I don¡¯t think Lawrence knew you were here,¡± he rified while smiling. He bent down to see what my answer would be. So I took a deep breath before speaking. ¡°As you can see, I want to surprise him on his uing birthday.¡± I met his stares even though I almost closed my eyes at the intensity of the sunshine. ¡°Hmm . . . what can I do to help?¡± He was serious when he spoke again. ¡°No, thanks, we can handle this,¡± I refuse. But instead of answering, I felt his grip on my wrist. It was toote to fight because he had already pulled me towards the shade of a tree. ¡°You can get sick if you stay in the sun for a long time.¡± His voice has authority. I don¡¯t want to think he¡¯s concerned that¡¯s why he did that, but I can¡¯t help but be nervous in the tone of his speech to me. I remained silent. I feel like my throat is drying up with the intensity of the sun. He snatched something from his pocket. ¡°Here, wipe your face,¡± he said while handing the handkerchief to me. Even though I was confused by his actions, I had no choice but to ept the offer because I was so vicious with sweat. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s clean. I haven¡¯t used it yet.¡± He bent down again to catch my gaze. ¡°Thanks,¡± I uttered before looking away. Even before I was able to wipe, I was almost sweating because of what he did next. He took off his clothes and, without letting go of the sun¡¯s heat to help the crew in setting up the big tent. My lips slightly parted as I watched his firm shoulders, his bold thighs and calf, and his firm chest and abdomen. Even though his color is definitely always warm in the heat today, he is still beautiful to watch when the sun shines. A frown reced my previous amazement. Why is he doing that crazy thing? He was the only one naked there in the middle of the day. *** ¡°MA¡¯AM MARGAUX, A phone call from Sir Lawrence,¡± Tanya called me with her hair hanging on her ear before looking at Franco. I was immediately shocked by what I heard. How did he know I was here? I hurried inside the mansion to answer the call. ¡°How are you?¡± My grip on the device tightened when I heard his violent breathing on the other line. ¡°What went through your mind, and you were in San Felipe?!¡± His anger was evident in his tone when he opened up to me. Sweat umted on my forehead again. I do not know what to answer to his question. When I admit the reason why I¡¯m here, it won¡¯t be a surprise anymore. ¡°I just visited Mirasol. I would also like to start tidying up the master¡¯s bedroom,¡± I escaped. I heard his heavy sigh on the phone as my heart pounded. I don¡¯t want to lie, but I don¡¯t want to waste the party I prepared for him. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll pick you upter. Wait for me. I¡¯ll just end my meeting with investors.¡± ¡°No, I¡¯m going home too. I have my car with me, so don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be fine here,¡± I said softly. ¡°Are you sure?¡± ¡°Yes!¡± I answered quickly. There was silence between us because I heard the door open from their office. ¡°Hello, I brought you something!¡± I frowned at hearing a small voice on the phone. ¡°Hello, Lawrence?!¡± I was suddenly nervous because he was not answering on the other line. ¡°Lawrence?¡± ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll call youter. Take care, sweetie.¡± I didn¡¯t answer and just hung up. Even if I wanted to be suspicious, I just put it aside because I don¡¯t want to ruin my beautiful day. Lawrence never talked about Elliesse again. I¡¯m also not sure if his rtionship with her is really over. His father wanted him to marry Elliesse. Even though he said he didn¡¯t want to marry her anymore, I still doubt it, just because of his dad. I gasped. I didn¡¯t want to think it was Eliesse, but the suspicion in my chest rose violently. I was just aroused when I heard footsteps approaching, and I turned around. Then, I saw Franco. His body was dripping with sweat. I kept my eyes lowered to his wet body and acted normally in front of him. ¡°What do you need?¡± I said in my calm voice. ¡°Can I go to your kitchen? I¡¯ll make juice for them.¡± Juice Juice ¡°UH, YES! I mean, leave it to me!¡± I bit my knotted tongue firmly before I quickly turned my back on him. Fortunately, I reached out to Mirasol, who prepared the snack for the staff. ¡°I¡¯m sorry if it¡¯s a littlete for the snack,¡± she apologetically said. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll go ahead and take them outside and continue what you¡¯re doing upstairs.¡± I grabbed the tray with just the pitcher and some sandwiches. ¡°Oh, no! When Lawrence finds out, he might get mad at me!¡± Mirasol insisted. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of Rence. We just finished talking.¡± She smiled in agreement with what I said. ¡°Then I will go to the back of the house first to hang the nkets I washed.¡± I nodded as she turned her back on me to get out. I quickly turned around, but the tray I was holding almost fell due to Franco¡¯s presence. He leaned against the door frame with two arms crossed on his chest. He stared at me intently, but I could not just read his emotions. He looks scary and mercilessly hot. I cannot deny that. ¡°H-here is . . . your juice.¡± I was about to take a step, but he was the one who came to get the tray and the sandwiches. I slowly lift my eyes to him. I could not understand why I even watched how he drank the contents of the ss juice in front of me. I shivered when I heard him flicker in front of me. ¡°Daydreaming, huh?¡± he said with a smirk. My face heated up, damn it! I stared at him and tried to pass him, but he spoke to me. ¡°I n to go to the ntation today. Do you want toe along?¡± I shook my head. ¡°No, thanks. I¡¯m not interested,¡± I quickly refused. ¡°My brother Lawrence is the owner of that farm and ntation,¡± hemended. Because of what I heard, my lips lifted. If Lawrence and I were to get married, I should know what businesses he has so that I will not have a hard time if I handle one of them one day. Lawrence probably wouldn¡¯t be angry if I toured the rancho with his brother. I do not know what conflict they have. But I hope it¡¯s not that big. He guided me to the stable. Later he released a ck horse. ¡°This is Stan!¡± introduce him while stroking his shiny hair. ¡°Do you ride a horse before?¡± He shifted his gaze to me. To my amazement, I could not speak immediately. I¡¯ve seen a horse a few times, but I¡¯ve never tried to ride one. I was happy to see them running and watching from afar. His brows twitched a bit as if liking the visible reaction on my face. ¡°You mean, you haven¡¯t experienced Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. horseback riding yet?¡± I nodded softly at him. There is no reason for me to lie because that is the truth; I have no experience in horseback riding. ¡°In that case, just stand behind me,¡± he said in a full voice. I blinked and quickly looked at his wrangler jeep. ¡°Why don¡¯t we just take a jeep?¡± Heughed at me, so I spontaneously looked back at him. ¡°What¡¯s so funny about that?¡± I raised an eyebrow. ¡°Only horses can pass through the rough road. If we use my jeep, we will take another round to San Felipe and eat a one-and-a-half-hour flight. You do not have to worry. Stan is one of the best horses among the others. Just don¡¯t mess up so he won¡¯t drop you.¡± His shoulders are shaking in silent I sniffed. I couldn¡¯t help but be nervous. I can only see how tall the horse is in front of me and how he can knock me down. My body hair is already standing up. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t let Stan drop you. I don¡¯t want Rence to me me if you get hurt.¡± A smile shed on his lips so I couldn¡¯t help but smirk. I hadn¡¯t been able to get up when I suddenly felt him grab my hips. I almost screamed because the horse growled at the noise I made. ¡°Shh. Stan doesn¡¯t like the noise. Go ahead. He might suddenly run.¡± He lifted his head, and lips curled up into a soft smile. But what he said came to me is different. Is he scaring me?! When I was annoyed, I folded my arms and just ignored it. ¡°Good boy, Stan!¡± He patted the horse before starting to ride it. I gasped as I smell his fresh scented perfume. Even though he was exposed to the sun earlier, he still smelled good. I just put that thing aside and prepared myself to run. ¡°Hold my arm tight, mydy,¡± he ordered. Before I could think twice, I did what he said because I don¡¯t want to go to Man with a lump on my head, especially Lawrence¡¯s scolding me foring here without his permission. ¡°You might get fall if you put your hands like that, hold me tight, Margaux!¡± he ordered with full of authority. He was the one that grabbed my hand. Instead of the arm, he hugged my hand to his body. ¡°There,¡± he whispered huskily. I quickly pulled my hand away from him, but he firmly restrained it. ¡°If you do not want to fall and break a bone, you will do what I said. Don¡¯t worry. There is no malice,¡± he said with a hint of humor. ¡°Look, I¡¯m only doing this just because of Lawrence. So can you not think I¡¯m putting it maliciously!¡± I said sarcastically. He sounded silly again. ¡°Then, you can hug me tight as long as you were doing this favor just for the sake of my dear brother, huh?¡± he said in his baritone voice. He hugged my arm even more with his vast body. I had nned to protest, but he quickly kicked the horse. I could do nothing but close my eyes and tighten my hug with fear that I would fall off the horse. ¡°Hey, you can¡¯t enjoy the view if you just hide behind me. Just open your eyes, Margaux,¡± he ordered. There I felt the horse slowing down, so I slowly opened my eyes. I also put myself behind him and held him lightly. The air felt fresh and new; a gentle breeze caressed my skin while the weak swing of the horse. I marveled at the sight of green leaves, fresh fruits on the trees, and the golden radiance of the cereal grass. Not only that, we pass more animals as we cross the road to the ntation. In a few moments, I will see a big farm where I will definitely be grinding the rice they harvest. ¡°Here we are. This is one of thergest Saavedra ntation in San Felipe.¡± ¡°Good morning, Sir Franco!¡± an older man greeted us. He immediately turned his gaze to me and bowed slightly with respect. ¡°How are the new harvests?¡± Franco said to the man. ¡°The harvesting is doing well, as well as the bananas that ready to harvest tomorrow,¡± he quickly answered. He nodded after the horse finally got off. He also immediately supported me down and guided me inside. My Lady My Lady IT WAS NOISY inside, and almost everyone is also busy. But it is still inevitable that some will stop working when they notice our presence. Franco walked away for a moment to talk to some staff. I just watched him as he spoke. He also nces at me from time to time. His eyes were deep and burning as if he had so much to say. I can¡¯t help but wonder why Fontani is hisst name when Lawrence is Saavedra. I don¡¯t know what¡¯s the real story behind it. So far, I am not in a position to ask. I straightened up when I noticed Franco approaching me again. ¡°Would you like to go for a walk?¡± I agreed to his offer. We walked until we reached the banana farm. Franco inspected the trays of only ripe bananas before taking one to peel. ¡°Taste it. That¡¯s one of the sweetest fruits here in San Felipe.¡± I took a small bite. I was no longer surprised by its sweetness and softness. Suddenly I wanted to take a pick for rence. ¡°Are you tired?¡± he asked me in a low voice. I shook my head as a reply. ¡°Then let¡¯s go to some other ces.¡± He held my wrist with his firm and strong hand. I did not protest any more. After all, he did nothing wrong. Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. He guided me back to Stan until we stopped at the top of a hill. ¡°Nice!¡± I eximed. I can see from above the wholend of the Saavedra. I felt my lungs with fresh air and blew it all out. I could feel him standing next to me while also looking at the beautiful scenery. ¡°Do you enjoy sightseeing?¡± His head tilted, and he looked down slightly at me. ¡°Y-yes, thanks, by the way.¡± He once again turned his attention to the wastnd. ¡°This is where I often spend my time after work. This is also where Lawrence and I used to y when we were kids.¡± The edge of my lip twitched. I did not even want to ask, but I motivated myself to find out the truth. ¡°Uh, may I ask you something?¡± His eyes dropped on me again. His eyes were dark. He always seemed to be in danger if he looked. ¡°Why isn¡¯t . . . Saavedra yourst name?¡± I bent down and bit my lip hard after I asked that question. ¡°That¡¯s my Mom¡¯s surname. I don¡¯t want to carry thest name Saavedra because everything will be tooplicated.¡± ¡°Why?¡± I couldn¡¯t help but ask. ¡°I am an illegitimate child,¡± he utter. My lips form into a bottom one. I want to hit myself up for asking that. ¡°Lawrence owns everything. Dad wants him to run all of Saavedra¡¯s businesses as his eldest and legitimate son.¡± I can¡¯t help but nce at him. His features darkened. It seems like he has a lot more to say. But I know he only has limited words. I raised my hand spontaneously to caress his back gently. He looked down on me, dark eyes bore into mine. I also noticed that his lips rose to what I did. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I said and shyly lowered my hand. I was shocked when he faced me. My heart raced unexpectedly. He bent down and examined how I could stop. His hot breath filled my cheeks. He never took his eyes off me, which made my knees tremble. ¡°Lawrence gets what he always wanted,¡± he shook his head and smiled listlessly. My throat dried up as he caressed my cheek. He¡¯s too closed that giving me enough goosebumps. ¡°And even the prettiest girl in town is his. I can¡¯t me him if he just refuses me to meet you. Anyone will like you, even me.¡± I averted my eyes from what he had said. ¡°Just kidding!¡± He recovers from what he said before shaking his head. It was only at that point that I breathed a sigh of relief and looked back into the distance. ¡°Let¡¯s go back to the ranch,¡± he told me after a few minutes. *** EARLY IN THE morning, Doris and I went with rence to San Felipe. I purposely arrived early at the venue even though the gathering started at night. I just want to check if everything is okay. I also called his close friends to surprise him when he cameter to the rancho. ¡°Lawrence is still finishing a lot of works, so he¡¯ll just be there next,¡± I told Doris fables when she asked me about Lawrence. Actually, he wanted us to go there together, but I made an excuse. Eventually, he stopped pushing because he still had an important meeting to attend. Also, I asked Carrick to ask Logistic to yter at the party. It was past twelve when we arrived in San Felipe. The ce is elegant and rxing. Everything was fine upon our arrival. The only thing left to arrange is the food and drink. ¡°Is this Lawrence¡¯s son?!¡± Mirasol¡¯s voice expressed unbearable joy when he saw rence. ¡°Yes, Mirasol!¡± ¡°Oh. This handsome grandson of mine. He inherited his looks from his father, especially the dimple, oh!¡± He praises rence. ¡°You go inside to eat and rest, too.¡± ¡°Sister, does this room really belong to rence? The size and the beauty!¡± Doris asked as she roamed her eyes in rence¡¯s room. ¡°Yes, Doris, this is for rence.¡± ¡°Will you live here with brother Lawrence?¡± I paused for a moment to arrange our belongings. I do not know the answer because even I have not yet made a concrete decision about our stay here. ¡°Ah. Doris, I¡¯ll go down first to entertain the guests.¡± I avoided her question. I wore a red dress. I pulled the hair high and let some of its details fall on my cheeks and neck. I wiped my lips with a light pink lipstick and also applied blush on to my cheeks. After being satisfied with the appearance, I went downstairs to greet the guests. I learned that Mirasol was taking care of the newly arrived guests. I did not know the other guests because Carrick had invited them. I also assisted with the preparation and cement of food on the long table. I looked at Julia, who had just gotten off the white van. She was with Santino, Jeremy, William, and Allysa, carrying her three-month-old baby. They were followed by Jocko and Samantha riding in separate cars. ¡°Margaux!¡± Julia greeted me and immediately hugged me tightly. ¡°Miss you!¡± ¡°I miss you too¡ªall of you,¡± I said in a soft tone. The hugs of Samantha and Ally also greeted me; even Santino and William hugged me. ¡°Hey, how¡¯s the host?¡± Jocko asked while smiling. My face heats up. I didn¡¯t want them to notice me like today, so I chose to look around. ¡°Where is Peter?¡± my lips asked. No one answered. At that point, I knew he was noting. I invited him tonight. Even though he didn¡¯t answer my text, I¡¯m sure he read it. After a while, I tried to smile and put aside the frustration. ¡°Come and let¡¯s eat!¡± I said instead. At sunset, guests came one by one. They¡¯re guests from the windy city, but some of them were just residents of San Felipe and nearby San Simon. Party Party THE MALE SINGER shouted using the microphone and greeted the guests. The band has also started ying. He had a clear, deep, beautiful, and genuine warmth to his voice. I smiled broadly at the guests¡¯ apuse while listening to it. Carrick and Cindy also arrived, taking care of some guests. My heart was pounding, and my breathing deepened as the night deepened and awaited the arrival of Lawrence. Until we wake up to a familiar vehicle, I took a deep breath and tried to rest my nerves. Gradually the guests screamed as the door of his wrangler jeep opened. Franco¡¯s gaze was locked to me so intensely. He was wearing a ck polo shirt with long sleeves and dark pants. My lips twitched when I noticed the clothes he was wearing. It was a cowboy outfit that is not suitable for tonight¡¯s celebration. *** ¡°GOOD EVENING, MYdy,¡± he said in a smooth voice. My voice got stuck from my throat as he stood only a few inches away from me. I don¡¯t know how to deal with him even though people are looking at us. ¡°Franco, is that you?!¡± The voice of Carrick saved me. ¡°Yeah, bro!¡± He punched Carrick in the arms. ¡°What a big surprise! Where the hell have you been? You¡¯ve missed my wedding!¡± he said as if sulking at the tone of his voice. Franco nces over at me. He just let out a smile before answering. ¡°Just busy with work,¡± he replied. ¡°I understand, bro! Anyway, did you meet Margaux?¡± He looked at me again and smiled softly. ¡°Yes, we already know each other,¡± he said with a raised brow. ¡°That¡¯s great. You better meet my wife!¡± Carrick added again. ¡°Uh,e in to eat first.¡± I finally found my voice to speak. I nced at Carrick so that he could assist Franco himself. He only gave me a nod, then helped Franco into the hall. I just followed them with my gaze towards Cindy¡¯s direction. Only then did my nervousness subside. Franco is getting into my nerves. I feel like he will do something terrible. ¡°Excuse me, Ma¡¯am Margaux. This is the party popper you asked me to bought,¡± Tanya called my attention. I furrowed my brows when I turned my gaze to her. I do not know if I willugh or will be angry because of the thing on her hands. ¡°Uh, please put it aside first. Thank you, Tanya,¡± I said and gave away my sweetest smile before turned her back on me. I stared at the open gate for a few more minutes and periodically nced at my watch. It was seven o¡¯clock in the evening, but Lawrence was still missing. Once again, my heart pounded with various nervousness. ¡°Margaux, where is rence?¡± Julia approached me, and Santino agreed. ¡°He was just sleeping in his room. He was so tired from the trip, so I left him to Doris for a while.¡± She pulled my hand and guided me to sit at an empty table. ¡°Who were you talking to earlier? He looks hot, huh?¡± Julia muttered excitedly. Because of her question, my eyes immediately searched for Franco. And I found him chatting to Cindy and Carrick. He also talked to some guests who I am sure are also their rtives. My heart moved as I note his familiar gaze. He swirled the red liquid in his ss and ncing intensely at me. He looks too dark to the point that I can no longer read what I want to convey. ¡°Is he single?¡± I quickly looked back at Julia, who was already paying attention to Franco. ¡°I don¡¯t know. He¡¯s Lawrence¡¯s half-brother,¡± I utter lowly. ¡°Oh, really?!¡± She promises to seem unbelievable looking back at Franco¡¯s behavior. ¡°He is so hot, Margaux. He has a lot inmon with Lawrence. Thank you, God, because you shared with other people the blessing that Lawrence has!¡± Julia eximed. She even looked up at the sky and rubbed her two cheeks while blushing. I was left behind. Seriously, Julia?! If I hadn¡¯t known her, I might have thought she has a secret lust for my Lawrence. ¡°Introduce me, please?!¡± She grabbed both of my hands tightly and jutted her lips. I nced at Franco again while talking to some women. He really had the guts to attract a woman¡¯s heart. ¡°Please?¡± she begged. I took a deep breath before nodding at her. ¡°Yes! Thank you, Margaux!¡± To her delight, she hugged me tightly. But we also immediately stopped when we heard a series of car horns from outside the yard. Suddenly I stood up. My heart started racing. Gradually, my chest tightened as I recognized the car¡¯s upants. Lawrence, in his pressed suit, walked in. His face was stern and drained with an expressionless stare. Then my eyes enthralled him. His chiseled jaw lifted with pride. Those brown eyes, tousled dark hair, high arch nose, brooding muscles, and that scowl resembled his father so much. Our eyes met briefly, but we were also quickly cut off when he turned around to the next car. Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. From there, Elliesse came out in her elegant gown. She wore an old rose gown made of soft fabric. They looked like a real couple with matching grand entrances from the Logistic Band. My heart twisted, a sharp painnced through my heart. I had to bite my tongue because if I did not do that, the tears would surely fall on my eyes. No, I should not send in my feelings. This is just a show and far from the truth. I quickly bent down and held the ring I was wearing. ¡°I will still hold on to what you said . . .¡± I whispered and smiled bravely. His father, together with Carolina, was on their back. He was also greeted by some guests and their rtives, who he weed. ¡°Do something, Margaux!¡± Julia shouted to me. But nothing enters my brain but the pain that the truth tries to make me aware of. I stepped on my foot to approach them, but I saw his daddy still ncing at me. Maybe that was not his intention, but I immediately backed away, and my heart was filled with fear. ¡°Margaux?!¡± I turned to Doris, who was now carrying rence in her arms. Mercy immediately caressed my heart as I stared at the naive child. He doesn¡¯t deserve any of these. He is too young to be hurt like this. ¡°Give him to his father, Margaux. It¡¯s now or never!¡± Julia whispered to me again as if urging me to approach them. I could have ruined that beautiful scene if rence and I approached to greet his father. I may also be surprised by his dad because he will see his grandson in Lawrence for the first time. But I¡¯m not that desperate. I still have some shame in myself. I swallowed the lump in my throat since I saw Franco approach them to greet them, and so did his father. My feet were even more restrained when the emcee spoke on stage. He weed the presence of Saavedra and the arrival of Elliesse, who is a well-known model of the country. I bit my lip even harder when I saw him go up on stage with rence. My heart twisted a beat, I did my best to ignore it, but still, I could feel the hot coal ced in my chest. Heart Twisted Heart Twisted ¡°GOOD EVENING! THANK you for this wonderful surprise. Actually, I¡¯m nning to celebrate my birthday with my loved ones only,¡± he paused and nced intensely at me. I was out of breath because of what he said. I feel like he did not like the celebration I prepared based on his sharp stares at me. ¡°Thank you! You made my birthday extra special tonight,¡± he continued. His words make me blush so heavily, my heart¡¯s doubtspletely dissolved because of what he said. ¡°Thank you so much, Mr. rence Saavedra, our celebrant! Now let¡¯s all wee Mr. Samuel Saavedra!¡± introduced the emcee. I followed him with my gaze as I descended the stage. He¡¯s still with Elliesse. I also noticed him following Lawrence, who just walked straight to the few guests he met. ¡°Good evening, everyone! First of all, I would like to thank everyone who attended tonight, especially to all who organized and made this surprise for my eldest son¡¯s birthday!¡± Samuel started. He quickly caught my eye. The frown pulling on the corners of his lips was like acid to my stomach. But I tried to simply smiled back. I do not want to be rude, even though I know his vote is not for me. ¡°Let me greet my son Lawrence first. Happy birthday, son! You¡¯re not getting any younger, so I¡¯d better tell you all now. After all, we¡¯re all here.¡± He nced back at me and curled his lips upward. My heart was throbbing in my chest as the cold night breeze was blowing right through my skin. I held my breath for what he was going to say next. ¡°I would like to announce the wedding of my son Lawrence and his fianc¨¦e Elliesse Del¡¯Fierro next month. You are all invited to the wedding of the year!¡± I soak up his words for a beat. I feel like I was a candle slowly fading from standing up because of what he said. My eyes quickly searched for Lawrence. I saw him suddenly stand up in his chair. His eyes darkened, and the muscles in his neck flexed. Elliesse grabbed his arms tight to prevent him. I wanted to step in to approach him, to remind him of his promises to me. He promised to fight for me, and he will choose me. I tried to step, but there was a firm hand over my arm. My lips quivered, and I lowered my head down. Even though I didn¡¯t look back, I knew it was Franco. ¡°Stay where you are.¡± His husky voice tried to tame my temper. I exhale loudly through my mouth. I restrained myself from doing anything. But my heart skipped when I saw Lawrence¡¯s piercing eyes darted on me. His gaze fell like an act of outrage, a re to stop my heartpletely. He quickly turned and stepped closer in my direction. ¡°Son!¡± The baritone voice of his father was rolling. ¡°Go back to your seat, son!¡± He has a strongmand of the child. He stopped for a moment. His features darkened, a muscle in his jaw started working. Eventually, he still walked straight towards me. It was only then that I noticed that Franco still did not let me go. He was making a tight fist around my wrist. He almost hid me behind him as Lawrence approached us. I held my breath when he stopped with Franco¡¯s full attention. ¡°I told you to do not go near her or even touch her, asshole!¡± he said in a cold rage. If the stare were deadly, Franco would have stretched out on the floor because of Lawrence¡¯s sharp gaze. ¡°Why? Are you jealous?¡± Franco uttered sarcasm to his brother. He didn¡¯t leave my wrist until I pulled it myself from him, but he firmly restrained it. ¡°Shut the hell up!¡± he shouted with a trace of roughness. We immediately caught the attention of a few guests. His father also came down from the stage, followed by Elliesse towards us. ¡°Why don¡¯t you fix your problem with your girls first before you scold me?! You¡¯re not a kid anymore. Don¡¯t let yourself be used and manipted by Dad. You are not the Lawrence I know.¡± ¡°You¡¯re not even in my position to say what I should do!¡± he fired back. ¡°Then act like a man, not a boy, my dear brother,¡± Franco said in a strident tone. I almost broke my breath as he took his step to rock his brother. ¡°You¡¯re nothingpared to me,¡± he said in a timbre of arrogance. My whole body grew cold at what he said. The Lawrence I know will not say this, especially in the state of his brother Franco. Franco chuckled lightly, then shook his head. ¡°Yes! I¡¯m nothingpared to you. You are a Saavedra! And I¡¯m lucky I haven¡¯t had that name,¡± he said, and then a smirk lifted to his lips. The siblings looked at each other for a moment before he violently released Franco. He then stared at me with his eyespletely nk. It was as if his heart was crushed because of the kind of look he gave. ¡°Get off your hands of her,¡± he ordered in a sharp tone. Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. I heard a soft grining from Franco before he finally released my wrist. ¡°What is happening here?¡± Samuel Saavedra¡¯s low voice made us turned in his direction. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me you wille here tonight!¡± he told Franco with aced of disgust. He turned his gaze sharply on me. ¡°You ruined the night again!¡± Elliesse spout. She was next to Samuel as a smirk appeared on his lips. ¡°As far as I remembered, you were not invited to the party. Andst time I checked, I am his fiance¨¦.¡± I raised my eyebrows in response to her. ¡°Bitch!¡± she shouted. ¡°I think you¡¯re getting too much attention. It¡¯s embarrassing for the guests. Just go back to your seat, boys!¡± Samuel firmlymanded his children. I swallowed hard and fell myshes down. I was the one who¡¯s responsible for these, but it should not have happened if I had not insisted on approaching them. I nced around; we all had the guests¡¯ attention. My face heats up. I never thought this would happen on Lawrence¡¯s birthday. ¡°Let¡¯s talk about thister. Lawrence, son, take care of your guests first and introduce Elliesse to them.¡± Those lines sat precociously to my heart. It still hurts to hear that face to face from his father, and it also hurts to think that he doesn¡¯t like me for his son Lawrence. But instead of obeying his father¡¯smand, he quickly confronted me. Before I knew it, his warm hand firmly sped my wrist. Julia¡¯s screams and Cindy¡¯s apuse were all I heard as Lawrence pulled me out of the yard. He also quickly put me in his car. I even heard Samuel call his son, but Lawrence did not pay attention. I feel sorry for his father. I know he just wants his child to get into a good life, and I can¡¯t me her if Elliesse is the woman he wants for him. We don¡¯t say anything for just a moment. My brain wasn¡¯t entirely on board. I don¡¯t know where he¡¯s going to take me. His car was moving so fast that there seemed to be no direction to go. Dancing Dancing ¡°SO YOU MEAN you are single right now?!¡± Julia asked him softly. Her eyes were blinking, and a smile already yed on her lips. ¡°Hmm . . . yes,¡± he answered. Julia seemed happy with what she heard from Franco, so she leaned a little on his shoulder, probably because she was very drunk. ¡°I¡¯m done!¡± Jeremy suddenly shouted, lowering the ss of wine on the table. Then he violently stood up and, without saying a word, left. He immediately followed by Santino and carried him inside the mansion. Everyone knows that Julia and Jeremy are dating, but I have not yet confirmed that to Julia. Shaking, I just red at Franco, who was now busy drinking. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. The night deepened, and almost everyone was drunk. Jocko was already dancing with Samantha to the apaniment of the Logistic Band. Carrick and Cindy danced in the middle as well. ¡°Do you want to dance?¡± Lawrence whispered to me while heced his fingers through mine. I quickly nced around as if some were already dancing. I saw Julia pulled Franco to dance in the middle. Thetter firmly refused, but because of Julia¡¯s carving, she drifted him to go to the hall as well. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s dance!¡± He supported me towards the hall. His hand encircled my waist securely. I let our bodies fit together and lean on his chest. ¡°I hate the way he looked at you,¡± he whispered while hugging me tightly. I looked up at him. I couldn¡¯t help but smile because his eyebrows met again. He¡¯s so jealous of his brother Franco. ¡°Come on; it¡¯s your birthday today. Don¡¯t be so hot-headed.¡± I lick my lower lips and stared at him closely. ¡°You¡¯re so beautiful, Margaux.¡± Then his mouth moved, and our lips synchronized in a perfect kiss. I heard loud cheers from Cindy and Julia; even the band ying also gave me a faint melody. His lips delve into mine, and I swallowed his groan and the taste of his tongue. Loud apuse filled the area as we parted. ¡°Happy birthday,¡± I whispered. ¡°I love you,¡± he replied. *** I WOKE UP early, and Lawrence was no longer by my side. The only thing he left was his familiar sweet scent that made my stomach churned. I stayed in bed for a few more minutes before I got up and took a shower. I chose to wear only walking shorts and a in white shirt before going down. ¡°Good morning!¡± I warmly greet everyone. ¡°Morning. Come on, join us,¡± Carrick told me. He was taking care of his son Kyzler¡¯s food next to his wife, Cindy. I gave him a nod, then stood next to Doris, who was also feeding baby rence breakfast. ¡°Good morning, handsome,¡± I utter, then kiss him on the cheek. ¡°Where is Lawrence?¡± I looked up at Jocko who asked that. ¡°He¡¯s just been here. But after he cooked our breakfast, he¡¯s gone!¡± Carrick replied. I just ate quietly, even though I wondered why he woke up early, and he¡¯s not on the table right now. ¡°Oh, Julia, why are you frowning?¡± Allymented while sipping a mango juice. She does not answer; her focus is only on the food. Then I heard Jeremy grin after he lowered the ss he was holding. I wanted to ask what the problem was or if I could help, but my tongue just stayed still. My real problem is that I don¡¯t get well, so I just chose to keep quiet and continue eating. ¡°Do guys want to go to Dinyan Falls?¡± Jocko asked Carrick as I looked up at them. ¡°Okay, game!¡± they answered. ¡°Wait, where are you going? It looks like it¡¯s all for boys, huh?¡± Cindy raised an eyebrow as she spoke to her husband. ¡°Love, of course, you can join us. You know I can¡¯t leave you,¡± Carrick said to his wife and kissed her softly. ¡°Okay, here we go, Dinyan Falls! Woohoo!¡± Jocko shouted. When we finished having breakfast, everyone arranged their things to go to what they call Dinyan Falls. It was also just here in ce of San Felipe. I wanted to see it because I heard the news that the ce is good. We almost came out of the mansion at the same time, screaming and teasing each other. Julia and Jeremy seem to be getting along now that they¡¯ve be attached due to their sweetness. But even before we left home, we were startled by the arrival of horses and two half-naked guys riding them. My mouth dropped as I watched their forting. They are actuallyughing together as if there was no argumentst night. ¡°Hooh!¡± I heard Lawrence¡¯s baritone voice. I was stunned when our eyes met. I almost stopped breathing. Damn it! What would I expect? He was shirtless! I can¡¯t help but look at it. His muscles rippled across every part of his body, from his broad shoulders down to his enticing biceps. I let out a shaky sigh and tried my best to looked away. ¡°Oh, you and your brother are here; we can go now!¡± I heard Carrick told them. ¡°All right, I¡¯ll just get dressed!¡± Lawrence replied. He finally got off his horse and walked straight towards me. He first caressed rence¡¯s hair before giving me a quick kiss. ¡°Morning, how¡¯s breakfast?¡± ¡°Hmm, good,¡± I answered hoarsely. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll take a shower first. Franco, get dressed too!¡± he ordered to his brother, then he went straight into the house. ¡°Good morning, mydy!¡± Franco stepped closer and smiled at me foolishly. My pulse quickened; though I did not want to answer, I was forced to speak. ¡°Morning.¡± He stepped straight into the mansion. Eventually, I could not help but sink into deep thought. Last night, the siblings were about to kill each other, but now, there seemed to be no trouble between them. We rode in the van together because they said the more crowded, the more fun. ¡°Who has the idea that crowded is happier?¡± Samantha suddenly spoke as she folded her arms by the window. I heard a small grining from Jocko. This is because he suggested that we were together in the same car even though they had their car. ¡°It¡¯s okay that we were crowded so we can fit in?¡± he then smiled foolishly. ¡°Why do I have to push myself if there is another way so that I don¡¯t get in trouble, huh?!¡± Her eyebrows rose in response. ¡°Wow, are you guys fighting?!¡± Santino chortled. She just rolled up her eyes. She pulled the earphone she was carrying from her bag and quietly pped it on her ears. I was able to sit up feeling like someone was beside me. Even though I didn¡¯t stare, I knew it was Lawrence. I already knew his fragrant smell and his warm presence beside me. I barely nced at him. He looked so freshly hot wearing his white T-shirt and pants. I couldn¡¯t help but to notice his thick brows that furrowed together, hismanding bone structure, a generous curved mouth, tumbled of his hair, and his soft, kissable lips. I don¡¯t know how he gotten into my nerves over and over again. I quickly averted my eyes as he looked down at me. Dinalayan Falls Dinyan Falls ¡°UH, I¡¯M GLAD that you and Franco have a small talked.¡± I cleared my throat and looked over the window. ¡°He¡¯s my brother. I don¡¯t want to make things worse,¡± he told me. I gave him a small smile before leaning on his chest. He was right; it looks like Franco will have no problem because I amfortable that it will not do anything wrong. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go!¡± Jocko shouted, and the car sailed away. I just waved at rence, who Doris carried. We did not include him and baby Kyzler in this trip because we will climb to get to Dinyan Falls. We will definitely have a hard time with them. Besides, it is an isted area and no electricity yet. *** Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. WHEN WE REACHED Dinyan, we took a long walk to climb the rocky road. Lawrence was able to support me. At first nce, it seemed easy to climb the rocks, but I was sweating profusely because the ce was steep. We spent a few minutes before I could hear the murmur of watering from the waterfall. I heard Julia and Ally scream when I saw them going down into the water. Excited, I began to take off my rubber shoes. ¡°Are you going to swim now?¡± Lawrence asked gently. He bent down and helped me remove the strap of my rubber shoes. In the end, I just let him do that. But he stopped for a moment and looked up at me. His eyes were dark, but I could see a bit of gleaming with rity. ¡°Can you still walk? Let¡¯s take a few more steps. I want to show you something.¡± ¡°I¡¯m tired, Lawrence,¡± I jutted my lips to his. ¡°I would carry you at my back if you want,¡± he said, his lips curled up to a smile. Eventually, I also agreed to what he wanted. I do not know how many minutes we have been walking. I prefer to focus on the giant trees that have grown old over time. Until I see a stream that is probably a continuation of the Dinyan Falls, it was not too big, but obviously, the water was a bit shallow. I clearly see the smoothness of the rocks underneath. ¡°We¡¯re here. It¡¯s better to bathe here. The water is not too cold,¡± he said. ¡°It¡¯s nice, Rence,¡± I whispered. I backed away when he started to take off his T-shirt andy it on the grass. He sat down and gently tapped the vacant part. My lips twitched. I watched him for a while, then looked at theke. I didn¡¯t want to sit next to him, but my legs were numb because of the long walk, so I finally saw myself sitting next to him. Silence fell between us; only the gentle murmur of the water can be heard. Even the gentle breeze seemed to deafen us. ¡°I talked to himst night beforeing here. I said I would not continue the wedding. I also do not want him toe closer to you,¡± he said thoughtfully. I nced at him, and a foolish smile shed on his lips. I just stared at him. I do not know how I will feel at this time. Maybe there was a thorn pulled from my chest, so I could not help but be infected by his smiles. ¡°You look better when you smile. As much as possible, I don¡¯t want to see you cry, but I¡¯m stupid and don¡¯t have balls to do that,¡± he said. I heard the moaning of his mouth after saying that. I bent down and yed with some flowers at my feet. ¡°You don¡¯t have to do that because many things give me a reason to smile. Our son is already there,¡± I said and smiled softly. I looked up when he suddenly stood up, and without saying a word, he took off his pants. ¡°Wait, what are you doing?¡± I stammered, eyes widening while watching him undress. ¡°I think we should go for a swim. I¡¯m too sticky because of sweat. Wannae?¡± He held out his palm to me. ¡°I¡¯ll take off my shoes first,¡± I said, but I was shocked when he squeezed my hip and carried me towards theke. I screamed not because I was tickled but because I could definitely soak in wet with my clothes. ¡°My shoes!¡± I screamed. But he just quickly pulled my shoes off and threw them on the dry side of the ground. I did nothing when he threw me into the water. I thought that part was just shallow, but I sank and chased the breath of the ascent. I heard loudughter filled the surroundings. ¡°Are you insane?!¡± I pushed his chest, but he didn¡¯t even move. Instead of answering, he pulled me closer to him and hugged both arms around my hips. I lifted my chin and threw him a re. He stunned me when he tightened his grip on me. He slowly fell his head down and whispered a soft tone. ¡°Please, I don¡¯t want to quarrel with you. I just want to feel your warm body like this.¡± My lips quivered. I could feel the trembling of my knees, not because of the cold but because of our closeness. I screamed as he lifted me again and threw me into the water. This time I swam with him underneath. We were filled withughter as we emerged from the water. Now I just also saw how he pulls too much. I hope we are always like this, those who do not think about problems and are free to do what we want to do. But I know it¡¯s not that easy. It was nice to think that we would still be together in the end, that there would be no obstacle. Hopefully. We returned to the waterfall while holding hands. They turned to us almost at the same time. I even heard Jocko whistle as we approached. ¡°Where did youe from? Looks like you just enjoyed it, huh?¡± Franco asked with lips twitched a bit. Lawrence only gave him a nod and tapped him on the shoulder. ¡°Margaux, let¡¯s go to the waterfall!¡± With Julia¡¯s kindness, I did not refuse when she pulled me towards the waterfall. ¡°What are you wearing? Take off your clothes; they¡¯re all wet!¡± Samantha said while immersed in the water. I looked down at the T-shirt I was wearing. Ashamed, I could do nothing but take it off and the shorts. All I was left with was my red bikini. I saw the men turn to me. It also struck Lawrence, who was drinking the beer they were carrying. He gave me a dark look as I raised an eyebrow. My heart was thumping so hard. I decided to jump into the cold water because I couldn¡¯t bear the look he was throwing at me. I swam towards the falls because the water was so passionate that I could not approach. I just fit in the ssh of water and the cold air it brings. I stared at the feeling of someone beside me. My lips loosely hang as I watch his firm naked body. It seemed like art when I watched the ssh of water on his big shoulder and chest. He washes away the sshing water from the waterfall. Dinalayan Falls 2.0 Dinyan Falls 2.0 ¡°LOOKS LIKE YOU and your brother are okay, now.¡± I looked up at him then he nodded. ¡°Well, blood is thicker than water, you know?¡± He then smiled broadly. I did not speak until now. I still cannot believe what is happening. It feels good that they are probably okay with each other. I know that Lawrence¡¯s heart is open for his brother. We spent a few more minutes in the water before we decided to go up. He picked up my clothes and handed them to me before traveling to the small hut there. Loud group stories greeted us. Lawrence turned his gaze at me. His features darkened, but his delicate lips always had a faint smile. He stood up and greeted me. ¡°You should wear your shirt, sweetie. Don¡¯t give me a hard time,¡± he whispered under his breath. My face heats up. I also immediately felt ashamed of what he said. So I decided to change my clothes. We just ate lunch and then agreed to retake a bath. It was afternoon when the group decided to leave. Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org. Too much has happened today. I am happy with what Lawrence and I have today. But they say that if you are too happy, there will be sadness and pain in return. *** WE GOT OUT of the car one by one. Laughter is still loud because of the incredible story that Santino was making. Lawrence and I held hands as we entered the mansion. But I was shocked when I found Samuel in the living room hugging rence, right next to Elliesse, on the sofa. My heart tightened. I tried to pull my hand back to Lawrence, but he held it tightly. ¡°Oh, how¡¯s the falls? Did you enjoy it?!¡± his father greeted us. I wanted to take rence from him, but I could not move my legs. ¡°It¡¯s great, Uncle. Have you been here before?¡± Carrick answered after looking for his child Kyzler. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me that you are going to Dinyan. I wish I were with you!¡± Elliesse smiled broadly at us regardless of Lawrence¡¯s tight grip on my hand. ¡°Thick indeed!¡± Cindy blurted out. She did not stopmenting. ¡°Oh, there you are. Dinner is ready,e, while the food is still hot,¡± said Mirasol. ¡°Finally! We can eat! I¡¯m hungry because of the trip!¡± Jocko eximed. He seems to want to alleviate the tension between us. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go to the table!¡± Cindy again, obviously refraining from speaking on her own. He gave his grandson to Doris, whom I approached for a moment before following them to the dining room. ¡°How are you, my little handsome?¡± I beat him with a kiss that made him giggle. ¡°Hey,e to daddy!¡± Lawrence said at my back. With a smile, I gave him the child who was not afraid toe. As I watched them, I could not exin the joy I felt at these times. Lawrence and rence had a strong connection. I never want to deny his being a father to my son. We left the child to Doris before we went to the table together. *** THE FAMILIAR NERVOUSNESS came back to me when Samuel was so close. His presence made my heart tremble and my knees weaker. He was sitting in the center, while to his right was Lawrence, right next to me. We started eating. The intense tension and nervousness were evident to everyone. Well, Lawrence put some food on my te. ¡°Thanks, sweety,¡± I murmured, looking up slightly to saw a smirking from Elliesse, who looked at me sharply. ¡°I also want to go to Dinyan Falls!¡± she suddenly said and nced at Lawrence. ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s a good idea, Elliesse!¡± Lawrence cut her off. ¡°Why not, son? It¡¯s only now that Elliesse can go to the waterfall again,¡± his father interrupted. ¡°If you want, join me tomorrow. After all, I will also go to the ntation. I have lots of free time!¡± I turned to Franco, who was ying with a smile on his face. Elliesse turned her face into a frown, then stared at Franco. ¡°You know what, you must try there with Franco. I¡¯m sure you can enjoy it there, as we enjoyed earlier, right, Love?¡± Cindy sighed as if she could no longer hold the silence. ¡°You¡¯re right, Love!¡± Carrick replied. ¡°It was Lawrence and Margaux who suddenly disappeared earlier. They were bathing in theke when they were just two!¡± Cindy rolled her eyes as she looked at Elliesse. She seemed bored with what she heard, so she lowered the cutlery before drinking water. The older Saavedra tasted the reason for Cindy to keep quiet, but I couldn¡¯t help but smile because of the stered smile on Cindy¡¯s lips. ¡°Son, you have nothing to do tomorrow, do you?¡± It seems that he does not like the idea that Franco will join Elliesse. ¡°I will take my family and me to Man,¡± he said, cocking his head to my side and turned to face me. ¡°She has a car with her. She can drive on her own,¡± he said without looking at his son. I nced slightly at Lawrence. His face darkened, and the muscle on his jaw started working. I held the cutlery tightly and held my breath as I listened to them. Tensions between the father and son seemed to recur, and the table became quiet due to his father¡¯s explicit refusal to take us home. I can¡¯t seem to swallow the food because of the intense tension. ¡°It¡¯s better if Franco and Elliesse go to Dinyan Falls while my family and I will go home,¡± he insisted. He lowered the cutlery he was holding and pulled out the ss of water to end the conversation. But his dad doesn¡¯t like his idea. I evenughed at it before gentlyying the cutlery on the te. He was leaning against the table with his arms crossed. ¡°Hija, what can you say?¡± His eyes didn¡¯t move. I could not answer immediately. His question was buffering in my head. Add to that my heartbeat as well as the attention they gave me. ¡°You don¡¯t have to ask her, Dad. I want you to respect my decision, and that is final.¡± ¡°Just answer me, hija.¡± He just ignored what Lawrence said, nodding at me and waiting for my answer. I filled the chest with air before bravely meeting his stares. ¡°I can use my car back home, but if Lawrence really wants to take us home, then it¡¯s okay with me,¡± I said with my shaky voice. I felt Lawrence¡¯s hand on my thighs, and he bent over me, so I could barely close my eyes. ¡°Good answer, sweetie! Can I kiss you here?¡± he said huskily. I bit down my lower lip and tried to fix my posture. Damn it! I shouldn¡¯t have said that. I saw the older Saavedra shook his head at us. If Lawrence wants to fight for me, I must not disappoint him. I must support him because we are two in this fight, and it will not work out if one of us did nothing. Choose Him Choose Him AFTER EATING, THE group decided to do a movie marathon in the living room. I just quietly sat while waiting for Lawrence, who¡¯s talking to his father on the veranda. A few momentster, I sat up when I felt he sat next to me. ¡°Dad¡¯s gone,¡± he said casually before hugging me. Only then did I breathe properly because of what he said. I leaned on his shoulder and hugged my arms around his body. ¡°How¡¯s rence?¡± ¡°He slept in his room before I got off here,¡± I answered. ¡°I¡¯m sorry about Dad.¡± He lowered his head to look at me evenly. The same feeling hits me big time. It is even worse now because I gradually feel that it has a good destination. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I know he doesn¡¯t like me.¡± My heart twisted a bit. Until now, the effects of what happened earlier still weigh heavily on me. I felt him grabbed my hand. He yed it for a while and finally folded our fingers. ¡°We talked earlier. You have nothing to worry about Dad,¡± he said gently. Eventually, I calmed down and enjoyed the TV show. But we were awakened for a moment when Elliesse suddenly sat down next to her as if she had not seen me. Then she suddenly pulled Lawrence¡¯s arm to hug her. My lips pursed tightly. Gradually I felt the warmth of my two cheeks. ¡°Elliesse, why don¡¯t you go home with dad? You have nothing to do here!¡± Franco told her with thece of sarcasm. Elliesse didn¡¯t reply. She just hugged Lawrence¡¯s arm even more as if no one knew about it. I tried to pull my hand away from him, but he held it tightly. Lawrence awkwardly moved away to N?velDrama.Org owns this. Elliesse and pulled his armspletely. Until Cindy broke her silence and confronted us while we were waiting, her eyes were zing with fire, and I knew it was about to explode. ¡°If you take a picture today, your picture will definitely be good. And the title of your picture will be . . . the wife and the mistress,¡± she said sarcastically. She even gestured with her hand in the air while tracing a crazy smile. I shut my eyes in exasperation. Damn it! I violently withdrew my hand from Lawrence, whom he had consciously given. ¡°So who will be the mistress, then?¡± Elliesse boldly asked Cindy with a raised eyebrow. ¡°Because probably, not me,¡± she added in a nasty tone. Cindy burst outughing; a burst of great boomingughter rolled from her mouth. But her seriousness returned when she spoke again. ¡°You are the mistress because you¡¯re a joke,¡± she said while hitching a brow at her. I felt a blockage in Lawrence¡¯s throat, which made him feel ufortable in the conversation. ¡°Who do you think your wife to be, then?¡± Jocko sighed as he sat up and then hugged the pillow in front of us. Jocko¡¯s teasing of Lawrence was evident in his smile. ¡°Who will you choose?¡± Franco said in a low, rumble voice. He leaned against the jamb of the elegant staircase while examining his stares. Instead of answering, Lawrence turned his gaze to me. I was immediately nervous. His eyes looked more serious than ever. I can clearly see the tightening of his jaw. He then finally stood up in front of me. I quickly nced at Franco and hisrades, who seemed to have no idea what was going on. ¡°Lawrence, what are you doing?¡± I asked him with my shaky voice. Elliesse immediately got up from her seat. ¡°What?! Are you crazy? You can¡¯t do this to me, Rence! I¡¯m your fianc¨¦e!¡± she hysterically said. But he did not listen to Elliesse. He finally knelt in front of me. My breath was ripped from my lungs. My heart erratically thumped as I stare into his deep-set eyes. ¡°I think this is the right moment to propose to you, Margaux, officially,¡± he started. He grabbed my left hand and caressed the ring I was wearing. I shook my head and held back the tears that want to get out of my eyes. ¡°I have nothing but confidence with you and very little of that . . .¡± His lips settled into a sly smirk. ¡°We grew up in separate worlds, but the only world I want to live in is the one where we can be together.¡± My red cheeks rose, uncontrobly inhaling and covering my mouth due to suddenness. ¡°Will you marry me, Margaux?¡± I heard Julia and Samantha¡¯s screams that were obviously shaking. Cindy raised an eyebrow but eventually smiled as well. I said nothing. Peal-shaped tears were rapidly streaming down my face, and I started to whimper. I tried to hide my tears beneath the nket of my hair. I want to speak, but it¡¯s as though something is choking me. ¡°Will you just stop it, Lawrence!¡± Elliesse stopped him. ¡°Can you stop being so insecure and pathetic, Elliesse? You can leave here freely!¡± Cindy said to Elliesse. His hand slowly reached for my face and swept my tears away. I took a deep breath and filled my heart with courage before facing him. ¡°I¡¯d choose you in a million lifetime and choose you over anything in this world, and I will still choose you because . . . I love you. And yes, I will marry you!¡± I answered. *** IT¡¯S BEEN A week since Lawrence and I became engaged. Our rtionship has been very smooth. Even though Mom and Dad were surprised by what they heard, it is also not surprising that they were happy for us. A lot of good things were happening in my life. I am the new president of Collins Hotel. Lawrence and I were nning our wedding first. Since our encounter with San Felipe, I have not spoken to his dad again. Perhaps someone already knows this in the course of the rtionship we have with Lawrence today. Even though we are busy running the hotel and holding regr meetings with investors, Lawrence and I still do not forget to meet after office hours. And he never failed to surprise me with some gifts and a bouquet of roses every day. ¡°You have a meeting today with Mr. Sarmiento at 10 o¡¯clock in the morning for the uing event of their product at the main function hotel, then a closed-door meeting with Mr. Tmeda at 1 pm, as usual for the renewals of their partnership with Collin¡¯s hotel.¡± ¡°Andstly, meeting with¡ª¡± she paused and turned her gaze at me. ¡°Meeting with Mr. Saavedra?¡± Karen asked with her furrowed brows. ¡°Samuel Saavedra, am I right, Margaux?¡± My quiet heart pounded quickly. ¡°You didn¡¯t inform me that I had a meeting with . . . him today?¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Margaux, I thought it was Lawrence. I already told you about this yesterday.¡± She seemed nervous as she exined because the gap between the older Saavedra and us was not hidden to her. I sighed before speaking. ¡°Alright, what time again?¡± ¡°It¡¯s 4:00 pm at the Luxury estate hotel,¡± she answered smoothly. ¡°Alright, please make me some coffee.¡± I thought before I spoke again. ¡°Uh, pineapple juice is much better, please,¡± I said while rubbing my forehead. I feel like my blood pressure has increased with what I heard. Fight for Love Fight for Love AS TIME CHANGED, my chest tightened even more. I was not on myself while meeting with another client. My mind was upying by Samuel Saavedra. I tried to breathe calmly, but every time I looked up at the clock, my panic and anxiety attack frightened me. My meeting with Mr. Tmeda already ended, but I am still here in my swivel chair and facing therge ss wall of my office. From here, I can see the lofty hotel of Saavedra. Even from a distance, it can increase the height and N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. size due to the few floors. I put air in my chest and then pounded the diamond ring on my shovel ring. I trust him. I trust Lawrence and our rtionship, and no matter what happens, I will continue to fight for my love for him. I did not even inform Lawrence of our meeting. Indeed nothing terrible would happen if Samuel and I just talked. My heart beats louder than it should ever since my heels stepped on their hotel. I tightened my grip on my shoulder bag and forced myself to rx. ¡°Are you Miss Margaux Collins?¡± A woman greeted me with a sweet smile. ¡°Yes!¡± I sparingly answer. Perhaps she is Samuel¡¯s secretary. She guided me into a private room. ¡°Would you like coffee or tea, Ma¡¯am?¡± she asked politely. ¡°No, I¡¯m fine! Thank you!¡± I simply said. ¡°Oh, sure! Will you please wait for a while? Mr. Saavedra will be out in any minute!¡± she smiled broadly at me before she left. I wrapped my palms around myp. I also took a few deep breaths and calmed my heart. I was startled in the seat when the big leaf opened, and it spat out the image of the strong and aristocratic Saavedra. I quickly stood up to greet him, but he also promptly motioned for me to sit down again. ¡°I thought you would not ept my invitation,¡± he said as he slowly seated in his swivel chair. ¡°I don¡¯t mix emotion when ites to work. I presume you have an interesting proposal to discuss with me at this very moment, am I right, Mr. Saavedra?¡± I said straightforwardly. I also lifted my chin and looked him in the eye. Samuel leaned back in his seat with his lips twitched a bit. ¡°I will not take second thoughts anymore. I want you to leave my son Lawrence,¡± he said withplete authority. His words cut through my heart. I quickly felt the ring on my finger and did not show hurt at what he said. ¡°You know Lawrence; he¡¯s young, wild, and lively. Let¡¯s just say that he is not that serious when it I swallowed. His words were like a thin knife that sat right through my heart. I can¡¯t imagine it alling out of Lawrence¡¯s father. ¡°Given that you have a child, I can provide his needs. I can also give him a better life and the privilege to be called Saavedra,¡± he said with aced sarcasm. Did I finally believe what he said? I was about to open my mouth to speak but it quickly followed what was said. ¡°That son of mine is stubborn, so I talked to you about it. Maybe we understand each other, Miss Collins?¡± he said as he curled up his lips upward. I fall myshes down. I do not know how I should feel about what he said. How can he be so sure that I will follow everything he said just because he wanted to? I¡¯m not that kind of person. I¡¯m not easily manipted. ¡°Elliesse is the one I want my son to marry. She¡¯s the example of a sessful woman. She doesn¡¯t depend on what the family has. She can stand on her own feet and make her own name in her own way. That is what I want for my son.¡± Again, a winning smile appeared on his face like a hot summer. ¡°I hope we understand, hija?¡± There I met his stares. I make sure I wear my zing eyes with torches and shot him a disgusted nce. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Saavedra, but I don¡¯t think you are in the right position to give me an order. Excuse me too, I am not chasing your son for money, and also, I can provide for the needs of my son. I also do not im the name you can give to my son. I love Lawrence, and nothing can stop my love for him, even you.¡± Tears pooled at the corner of my eyes, but I firmly restrained it. He sat up straight before a foreign smile shed on me. ¡°In that case, we have nothing more to talk about,¡± he said with a cold tone. ¡°I will repeat. I love your son, and no one can tell me not to love him,¡± I said bravely. I stood up and exited the room without looking back because I don¡¯t want to hear what he had to say. I didn¡¯t spend any more time, so I rushed out of the hotel and into my car. Only then did the tears that I had been holding back drip. My heart twisted. I was hurting for Lawrence. How could his father do this nasty thing to his son? Why is it so difficult for his father to give us the blessing? Am I not good enough? Isn¡¯t it enough that I love his son so much that he trusts me and the love I can give to him? I have my own dreams, not just as Elliesse. But I can prove to him that I¡¯m not just a Collin¡¯s daughter. I¡¯m Margaux Collins! I went straight to my office because I knew Lawrence was waiting for me to return. He¡¯ll make sure he can pick me up every day even though his office schedule is tight. As expected, he is already inside. He¡¯s always looking hot and gorgeous wearing his office attire. His appeal was even stronger when he took off his coat, and the only thing left now is his blue long sleeve polo. ¡°Hey, how¡¯s the meeting?¡± He approached me to give me a light kiss on the lips. ¡°It was good!¡± I said energetically. I don¡¯t want him to think that something is bothering me, and I don¡¯t want him to know that I talked to his dad earlier. ¡°Are you sure?¡± he asked softly. To my great surprise, he bent down to look at my face. He looked at me with steeply arched brows. I averted my gaze and looked out the wide window. ¡°Of course, I do.¡± But unexpectedly, he moved closer, and his gaze was locked on me. ¡°Is there something I need to know? You looked so different today. Did something bad happen, huh?¡± I swallowed and forced the glitter back into my eyes. ¡°I¡¯m okay! Don¡¯t worry about me. So let¡¯s go?¡± I pulled his hand to avoid it, but he just pulled me back, and he quickly locked me in his big arms. I could do nothing but look at him. My heart was thumping hard against my chest. I could feel the electricity building between us. Lawrence¡¯s gaze dipped to my lips. He then licked his lower lip. His forehead was also furrowed, and his eyes were intense. ¡°I don¡¯t want you to keep a secret from me,¡± he seriously said. ¡°I-I just had a problem with a client. She backed out in our project. But I found a way,¡± I said as I fixed my gaze on the floor. He stared at me for a few more minutes before finally nodding. ¡°Let¡¯s have some dinner together.¡± I did not protest anymore when he asked me to leave my office. Rooftop Rooftop LAWRENCE PARKED HIS car at the famous hotel. He gave the valet the key to his car and then helped me get out of it. My jaw dropped open as I wandered around the lobby. This is actually my dream hotel. I used to dream of getting in here when I was a child. The beauty and quality of the ce are really different. It was Mediterranean-inspired, from the terra-cotta roofing to the white tile floor. Its size is also not a joke. ¡°Good evening, Mr. President!¡± The one who¡¯s wearing a uniform greeted him. Suddenly I looked at Lawrence with amazement in my eyes. ¡°This . . . is yours?!¡± He looked at me over his shoulder and smiled broadly. ¡°Gosh!¡± I just patted my forehead because of stupidity. ¡°I¡¯m one of the stockholders of thispany. Actually, I owned fifty percent share of thispany,¡± he said casually. With his posture and kind of smile, I can say that he did not brag about what he was saying. Even then, he did not make me proud of what he had. I bit down my lower lip. Once again, the conversation I had with his father came to my mind. Maybe he was right. I was not the right woman for Lawrence. He deserves a much better woman. In fact, we have less than half of their wealth. We only have a few hotels; some of them have not yet entered the trending market. I was stuck in deep thought when I felt his warm palm on me. He slowly entwined our fingers and caressed them gently. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± I was still speechless even though we were already on the elevator. I¡¯m too preupied with my worries, so I didn¡¯t notice that we were going to the 50th floor. I trembled with the caress of his hand over my waist when he pulled me closer to him. We were still in the elevator alone. ¡°What you were thinking, huh?¡± he said under his breath. He ced his chin over my head, then pulled me closer to him. He just needs to carry me because he hugs me. My pulse quickened. I could not speak immediately. Because I was just thinking about what I was going to excuse myself for. My chest was pounding. He knows when I am telling the truth and when I am not. Luckily he mentioned my previous meeting. ¡°Where are we going?¡± I thought we¡¯re having dinner here, but it looks like he wants to go somewhere. ¡°Why are you even asking when you aren¡¯t answered mine?¡± he said with mixed emphasis before bowing and catching my gaze. I swallowed. When else has he been critical of my actions? ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I was just starving . . .¡± I trailed off. ¡°Hmm, I¡¯m hungry too,¡± he whispered. Because we were so close to each other, I could almost smell his hot breath hitting my cheek. I bent down and tried to hide the redness on my face. Damn it! Is he seducing me? Really, right inside the elevator?! I was pinned when his lips touched my cheek. He didn¡¯t move his hand on me, but it was even tighter, as if he wanted to crush my bones. Due to the rush of emotions, I could not help but sigh. His fingers were already roving my body. Since all I was wearing was a blouse and a pencil skirt, he could easily slip it up. He knew what he¡¯s looking for. I swallowed as he ran his hand over my clit, and I groaned as the pleasure takes me. I could do nothing but hold on to his arm tightly and lean on his broad shoulder. There he took the opportunity to pull my cheek. And he kissed me hungrily. I moan into his mouth, and he groans in response. I was unable to respond to his kisses for fear we would both lose ourselves. But his scent was so addictive. His touch made me lose myself in control. I could feel his mouth stretching wider my lips, and his silky tongue stroke mine. And then, his phone rang. He stopped for a moment. And an expletives word came up to his mouth. My breathing hastened. I still can¡¯t get up with the kiss we shared, especially since we remain in that position. His arm wrapped firmly, possessively around my waist. ¡°I¡¯m really sorry. I have to take this,¡± he said through clenched teeth. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. He slid his phone out of his pocket and answered the call. ¡°What? Damn it! You should have told me. We are close,¡± he said in a rumbling voice. When he dropped the call, the door opened at the same time. We were already on the 50th floor. ¡°Let¡¯s continue thister,¡± he said in a restrained voice. I just bit my lower lip at what I heard. I¡¯m already wet down there. What if we continue itter? I shook my head and scolded myself for the dirty mind. We used a staircase to reach the rooftop. And when he opened the door for me, my jaw dropped in amazement to see the greenhouse full of different kinds of flowers and nts. ¡°Lawrence, this is so amazing!¡± I eximed. He grabbed my hand once more. My fingers were gently pressed against his. We entered the greenhouse. Despite the darkness of the surroundings, the different colors of flowers were reflected. ¡°This is so beautiful!¡± I looked at him and hugged him tightly. ¡°Thank you, Lawrence!¡± ¡°Anything for you.¡± He stroked my hair and kissed the trunk of my hair. I feel light in my chest because of this. He made this night even more special for the two of us. But I was separated from him when I heard loudughter. I frowned when I looked up at Lawrence, and his face turned into a grimace. ¡°Carrick and the gang are here,¡± he said with a frown. ¡°What?!¡± I asked with astonishment. Because of what he said, I quickly left the greenhouse to turn around, where I could see the full-size swimming pool and a bungalow-style house there. ¡°Margaux!¡± Julia called me while soaking in the swimming pool. ¡°Hi!¡± I waved back and looked at Santino and Jeremy facing the grill while Jocko and Carrick were drinking at the nearby table. ¡°Carrick didn¡¯t tell me he wasing here too.¡± Lawrence shook his head. ¡°I thought this dinner would going to be intimate for both of us.¡± I couldn¡¯t help but smile as his eyebrows met even more as he stared at Carrick¡¯s group. ¡°It¡¯s okay. They¡¯re happy to be with anyway.¡± Since it looks like he has no intention of approaching Carrick yet, I pulled his hand closer to them. ¡°Margaux, you¡¯re here?¡± Cindy¡¯s voice was shocked when she came out of the house with Samantha. My lips pursed a bit. The two of them were just wearing bikinis that seemed ready to hit. I only give them a nod, then Lawrence was pulled to sit at Carrick¡¯s table. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, bro, you didn¡¯t tell me you wereing here right now.¡± ¡°Forget it! Just give us something to eat.¡± Lawrence¡¯s melody here still can¡¯t paint the face. ¡°Right away!¡± He stood up and walked away from us. Later, someone was talking to him on his cellphone. Photos Photos ¡°HOW ARE YOU? When is the wedding?¡± Jocko asked him while swirling the wine in his ss. ¡°Maybe next month, I want to make it as soon as possible,¡± he said thoughtfully. I was left out. The redness on my two cheeks immediately went up. Lawrence really handles all the details of the wedding. My only role is to wear the gown and the bridesmaids. ¡°You really are a road to forever!¡± he joke, then had a fist bump with Lawrence. Carrick arrivedter, bringing the dinner of Lawrence and me. We walked into the home and decided to dine there. Lawrence remained silent. Even the meeting of his brows was not enough to deter him from looking towards Carrick¡¯s group. ¡°Would you like to go swimming with them, Julia?¡± he asked coldly. ¡°Uh, not first. I¡¯m okay here.¡± He leaned back to his seat and looked at me with twitched brows. ¡°So, what do you want to do, then?¡± My face heated. I know he doesn¡¯t mean anything, but why did what he saide to me differently? I sat up and sipped the juice in front of me. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go upstairs. I want to show you something.¡± He finally stood up and held out his hand to me. I hesitated for a moment. Something came to mind immediately. Carrick¡¯s group was just outside, and they can go in at any time. What will they think of us by chance? But eventually, I saw myself reaching for his hand. He took me to one of the rooms there. My heart was thumping hard against my chest. Add more grip to my hand as I entered the room. I covered my mouth as we turned right to the door. I could not move my feet because of what I saw. ¡°These are supposedly my surprise for you,¡± he said softly. Tears were forming at the corner of my eyes. As I examined each of the hung photographs one by one, my emotions were repressed. ¡°Lawrence, these are all amazing!¡± I eximed. How are the pictures hanging in the room? Those photographs were taken on the day of Cindy¡¯s wedding and while I was on vacation at the Saavedra Resort. There were also pictures of us taken when we had a pic in Tagaytay. My stomach fluttered. ¡°How does it happen?¡± I still couldn¡¯t believe it. I could feel his arms wrapped around my waist and his small kisses on my shoulders and neck. ¡°I hired a personal photographer. I told him to take a picture of you. There are also some pictures from Cindy and Samantha.¡± ¡°W-why?¡± I said with my shaky voice. I was suddenly terrified to learn that he was monitoring my every move ever since. ¡°Actually, this is for my own purposes. I always want to stare at you even in the photo until Ie up with an idea to have a collection of your pictures, or maybe I¡¯m just obsessed with you,¡± he said huskily. His kiss was getting deeper. His right hand drops to my thigh, pulling up my skirt again. Lawrence¡¯s fingertips are electric. I seemed to be running out of energy even though I was leaning on his broad chest. He twirled me around, sped my both cheeks, and kissed me tenderly. And then his warm hand ran down my body, and I shivered. I would not have wanted to finish that kiss, but I could almost push him because of a series of knocks from the door. ¡°Damn it!¡± Lawrence muttered sharply. ¡°Guys, what?! Go ahead with thatter!¡± It was Jocko¡¯s voice without knocking on the door. ¡°Get the fuck out of here, Jocko!¡± Lawrence answered. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, bro, but Franco is here and looking for you!¡± Jocko said behind the closed door. When he heard his brother¡¯s name, hepletely separated from me. We walked out of the bungalow together, holding hands, and met up with Franco in front of Carrick. Like before, he wore only a typical checkered polo and faded jeans. He looked up at me with his familiar dark features. But there was still the yful smile on his lips. He immediately stood up and left the others to step closer to us. ¡°We¡¯ll just talk for a moment,¡± he said, releasing my hand and facing Franco approaching. I just sat quietly in the chair in front of Carrick. ¡°Looks like the siblings are talking seriously, huh?¡± said Jocko. We both turned to Lawrence and Franco, who seemed to be talking seriously. I noticed Lawrence frown as he faced him. His jaw clenched hard while he shot him a dark look. The intense nervousness in my heart immediately rose, especially when Franco stared at me for a moment before facing Lawrence again. They left for a while, and I never saw them again. ¡°Margaux, let¡¯s go swimming!¡± Julia awoke to my silence. ¡°Maybeter? You, go ahead!¡± I refused. It¡¯s good that they didn¡¯t ask me again, so I just turned to the barbecue that Santino cooked. While eating quietly, I felt someone sitting beside me, and I was shocked who it was. ¡°It looks delicious, doesn¡¯t it?¡± I looked over, and my eyes looked for Lawrence. ¡°Someone just talked on the phone. He wille back soon. So how are you?¡± asked Franco. I turned over with a folding seat next to me. His eyes shot at me directly. ¡°Good. Why are you here?¡± I said under my breath. I looked down at the barbecue I was holding. ¡°If I told you, would you leave Lawrence for me?¡± Franco said while grinning. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. I frowned at him. My breath seemed to stutter from my lungs. I feel like he has something to say and wants to convey. ¡°When that dayes, you promise not to give up,¡± he said in a serious voice. I was even more nervous because of his words. ¡°What is it, Franco?¡± I couldn¡¯t help but ask. ¡°I have important things to do here,¡± he said without leaving my face. ¡°Just ignore what I said.¡± Even if I want to becent, I can¡¯t do it because Franco¡¯s type is not the one to joke like this. I just turned my gaze to the barbecue I was holding and never looked at him again. *** ¡°KAREN, WHO SENT this?¡± I call as I notice the bouquet of roses on my table. ¡°Ah. I don¡¯t even know, but there¡¯s a letter attached to it. Don¡¯t worry. I didn¡¯t read it,¡± she said as she nced at the open door. ¡°Okay, thank you!¡± I opened the letter and read it. For you, mydy! I frowned and thought for a moment. Suddenly I was so nervous when I realized who sent me flowers. I sat down in the swivel chair after squeezing my senses. At the same time, the phone rang on my desk. ¡°Yes, Karen?¡± I answered. ¡°It¡¯s Franco Fontani,¡± she said on the other line. My heart skipped a bit. There was the familiar whistle again every time I heard his name. I quickly epted the call and leaned back in my swivel chair. ¡°Hi, did you like the flowers?¡± His voice is full of speech on the other line. ¡°Uh, yes! Thanks, but you shouldn¡¯t have bothered anymore.¡± ¡°You want to go for lunch?¡± he asked smoothly. Friendly Date Friendly Date I COULD NOT speak immediately. I would have liked to ask what the flowers were for, but I was even more confused when he invited me to have lunch with him. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s a friendly date. I¡¯ll pick you up at twelve. Alright, Margaux?¡± I was about to speak, but he immediately dropped the call. I could do nothing but sink into deep thought. Could it all have something to do with what he told me at the hotel? I shook my head and just put aside the doubt. When lunch break came, I got myself ready. I also arranged some of my belongings while waiting for Franco. ¡°Mr. Franco Fuentani is here!¡± Karen broadly smiled as she peeked at the door. ¡°Uh, tell him I¡¯ming out.¡± I just hovered for a moment as I looked in the mirror and finally left my office. I saw him sitting in the waiting area. He immediately stood up when he saw me. I couldn¡¯t help but smile at him when I noticed he¡¯s wearing a coat and tie. Not like a typical cowboy outlook. ¡°Let¡¯s go?¡± His broad smile greeted me. Later, we got in his car. I restrained myself from asking where his wrangler jeep was. I also can¡¯t help but nce at him while he¡¯s driving. He looked so different today. Far from the cowboy Franco I left in San Felipe. Until we reach the high-ss restaurant, he also pulled my chair when we got inside. ¡°Thanks,¡± I utter lowly. The waitress immediately approached us to pick up our order. We both just kept quiet until our order arrived. ¡°You didn¡¯t like your food? Do you want to change it?¡± Maybe he noticed my stabbing at the steak I ordered. ¡°I don¡¯t eat much,¡± I answered sparingly. ¡°Did you talk to Dad?¡± He stared at my reaction to what he said. ¡°How did you find out?¡± I asked with furrowed brows. ¡°Dad called mest night, and he gave me an assignment.¡± I saw his lip rise after that. I lowered the knife I was holding and gently wiped the tissue towel in my mouth. ¡°What is this all about, Franco?¡± Like me, he lowered his fork and knife before leaning back in his chair. ¡°I didn¡¯t like the idea of being a third party. Maybe I won¡¯t fall if I don¡¯t do Dad¡¯s order, right?¡± I sighed. So his Daddy was the reason he invited me today. ¡°I have a lot of respect for Lawrence, and I can¡¯t hurt him because I am so indebted to him.¡± My eyes stayed on his, and I waited for him to say more. ¡°Dad gave me one assignment. And that is to destroy your rtionship with Lawrence. In return, he will give me some shares of hispany. He will also share the resort Lawrence is handling with me.¡± He looked up at me as if reading my reaction. I fell myshes down and shook my head. ¡°I can¡¯t me your father if he doesn¡¯t like me for Lawrence. I won¡¯t wonder why he talked to you instead of Lawrence,¡± I said while biting my lips. I feel like my heart was crushed by what I found out. I startled from my seat when his hand cover mine. I looked up at him while controlling my emotions. ¡°I saw how much he loves you. He thinks very differently of you than the others he has been in a rtionship with. I thought Elliesse was the one for him because of the bond of Lawrence¡¯spany and the build they have for the past years. But Elliesse wanted to have a name in modeling, and she did not fail. Look at her now; she has achieved her dream,¡± Franco said clearly. He first observed my reaction before he said what he would say next. ¡°Suddenly, you came into his life and filled his longing heart. Elliesse came back, but my older brother was madly in love with you. And no matter how hard Elliesse tries to get everything back, she will never get Lawrence¡¯s heart again.¡± The tears that I had been holding back have been shed. I do not know why he is saying all of this. ¡°So, Margaux, I beg you never to let go of Lawrence no matter what happens!¡± His voice was solemn as he spoke again. I nodded slowly, carrying myself with emotion. I was even surprised when he came to wipe my tears on his cheeks. ¡°Shh. Lawrence might be going to kill me when he sees me making you cry like this,¡± he said while grinning. There I smiled and pped his hand. ¡°Let¡¯s eat again!¡± Iughed before continuing the meal. *** I WAS RELIEVED to return to my office and happy and contented with the conversation with Franco. I know in the end, he is still thinking about his brother¡¯s satisfaction. ¡°Margaux, Lawrence came here earlier, and he said he would have invited you to lunch, but you were not answering your phone. I said you had a meeting, so he just left.¡± ¡°All right, Karen. I¡¯ll just call him. Thank you!¡± I went straight into the office. I immediately searched for my cellphone, and I was so shaken when I saw it was dead battery. Since Lawrence did not pick me up, I got home early. ¡°Where are mom and dad?¡± I asked the housemaid. ¡°They¡¯re already in their room and resting,¡± she answered. ¡°Shall I serve you dinner?¡± ¡°All right,¡± I said. After that, I decided to go to rence¡¯s room. Time flies so fast. I love seeing him grow healthy and a brighter one. ¡°I missed you, baby!¡± I even hugged him tightly. I always do the work every day and lose time for him. I leave early in the morning and sometimes got homete at night. As a result, I can no longer keep track of his daily activities. My only free day is Sunday, so I prefer to devote it to him when that day arrives. ¡°Ate, the food has been served!¡± A call from outside the door. ¡°All right, I¡¯ll be downstairs!¡± I answered. We went to dinner together. When it was over, I decided to go upstairs to put rence to sleep. I broadly smiled as Iy him down in the crib sleeping soundly. I kissed him on the forehead before I left him to Doris. Iy down my tired body on the soft bed. I closed my eyes tightly and tasted its softness. But I suddenly got up and looked for the cellphone in my bag. I quickly opened it, and there were some missed calls from Lawrence. There were also some messages. Lunch today?! that was the first message I opened. You didn¡¯t answer my calls, busy? Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. I came to your office. Karen said you had a meeting, maybe next time, I¡¯ll pick you up after office hours. I¡¯ve missed you! I bit my lip hard in hisst text. But why didn¡¯t he pick me up earlier? I dialed his number, but it cannot be reached. I repeated it a few more times before sending a text message. Since I do not feel sleepy, I decided to open my Facebook. I got a notification right away, and I was tagged in some photos. It almost broke my heart while looking at Lawrence¡¯s photos with Elliesse himself. I could feel my heart had been hit a million times. The pain in my heart was intense when I saw the two in the picture together. He鈥檚 Drunk He¡¯s Drunk UDDENLY, MY CELLPHONE rang because of Cindy¡¯s call. ¡°Hello, Margaux?¡± I immediately noticed the noisy background on the other line. ¡°Oh, why?!¡± ¡°Come here now!¡± she said hysterically. I suddenly woke up in bed because of the tone of her voice. ¡°Where?¡± ¡°Here in Eastwood, in the Royal Highs Subdivision. Just say Carrick¡¯s name to the guard!¡± After she said that, she turned off the call. Though confused, I obeyed what she said. I headed to the ce Cindy was talking about. Gradually I got an idea of what was going on, but I did not want to make a conclusion about it until I had no concrete evidence. In a few moments, I reached the ce she says. I looked up at the mansion, where a party was taking ce. I tried to call Cindy, but I could not contact her. As she said, I mentioned Carrick¡¯s name to the guard, so I went inside. The front yard is already crowded with guests. Others arepletely drunk. I tried to go around looking for Cindy. My eyes wandered to therge pool where a lot of women are wearing only a bikini. I looked down at the jeans I was wearing and the white T-shirt. Anyone will be distracted by what I am wearing because it is inappropriate on asion. I tried to go inside the house, and there, I found her dancing. I quickly approached her with a trace of N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. shock when I saw her. ¡°Margaux, you¡¯re here!¡± she eximed. Suddenly she pulled me by the arm and led me to a corner where very few men were. ¡°Do you and Lawrence have a problem?¡± Cindy asked me in a low tone. ¡°I don¡¯t know. We haven¡¯t met all day. We¡¯re supposed to have lunch together, but Franco and I met.¡± ¡°Damn it!¡± she cursed sharply. It was there that I became very nervous, especially when her eyes rolled as if she was looking for something. ¡°Cindy, what is happening?!¡± I asked with my raised voice. ¡°He¡¯s with Elliesse! I saw them together earlier. I don¡¯t know if they came here at the same time, but Lawrence is so drunk!¡± I rubbed my forehead. What the fuck is he doing here? I do not remember Lawrence and I have a problem. So how did it happen that he and Elliesse were together? ¡°Let¡¯s find out!¡± Cindy pulled me hard and wrestled with the dancers. I quickly turned to a table near the swimming pool. And there, Lawrence sits in front of a few bottles of wine. My heart ughter as I saw him with Elliesse at one of the bungalows near the pool. ¡°Lawrence?!¡± I approached him, who looked up at me. His dark eyes bore into mine, and because of its extreme darkness, I could not breathe properly. ¡°Well, well, well. The fianc¨¦e is here. You didn¡¯t tell me that this woman is always on your tail wherever you go,¡± Elliesse stated, who¡¯s wearing a pair of bikinis hugging only a thin fabric. ¡°Can we talk?¡± I could hear the trembling in my voice as I spoke to Lawrence. He looked up at me, and I looked into his eyes. But it was like nothing was there to behold. He just gave me a bitter smile before standing up. We went inside the mansion in silence. ¡°What are you doing here with Elliesse?¡± Finally, I have the courage to speak. He just shook his head. ¡°We¡¯ve just met here.¡± I let out a deep breath and tried to calm myself down. ¡°Why are you getting drunk? What¡¯s the matter?!¡± My tongue hovered over my lips before looking up. He was like that for a few minutes before looking down at me. And I saw the fire in his eyes that already melted me inside. ¡°Dad wants to take everything I worked for. He wants to give Franco everything,¡± he said while clenching his jaw. I covered my mouth at what I heard. I don¡¯t quite think his own father could do it himself just to separate us. ¡°And what¡¯re those photos having lunch with my brother? Is he also nning to snatch you from me?¡± he said in a baritone voice. ¡°W-we¡¯re not doing anything wrong. We¡¯ve just talked. What photos are you saying? Who gave you those photos? Is that Elliesse, am I right?!¡± I raised my voice. ¡°They nned this, your dad, Elliesse, and Franco!¡± I said furiously. I quickly left him to go back inside. I have enough. After this, I will not allow Elliesse to take any further steps to ruin our rtionship. I quickly looked for Elliesse inside, and my eyes hit her on the side of the pool talking to a man. My eyes immediately heated up with anger because of her loudughter. I didn¡¯t think twice. I took big steps to approach her. I violently grabbed her arm, causing her to be surprised. ¡°You nned this, do you? You took a picture of me while I was having lunch with Franco, then you showed it to Lawrence!¡± I said through clenched teeth. ¡°What are you talking about? I¡¯m not as desperate as you to flirt with the Saavedra brothers!¡± she shot back. She seems to be expecting my approach. ¡°And you also send me those photos of you with Lawrence?! Who is cheap now, huh?¡± She twitched her brows and looked at me with disgust. ¡°Didn¡¯t you like it? It¡¯s a pity you didn¡¯te early. You would have seen how sweet we were!¡± Smirked grew over her face. ¡°I warn you. This is thest time you will mess with Lawrence because if you repeat this, I don¡¯t know what I will do to you!¡± Her grin widened, and she looked at me secretly and violently pulled her arm towards me. ¡°Should I be afraid? If anyone should be afraid here, it¡¯s you because you will lose everything. I¡¯m sure Lawrence will not give up what he has just to marry you. Another thing, are you not ashamed? You also squeeze yourself into Lawrence. Even though he should really marry me!¡± ¡°Well, nice try, Elliesse. Last time I checked, I am the fiance¨¦.¡± I smirked. I raised my hand in front of her, where I wore my engagement ring there. ¡°You only say that because you have a child, you just had a baby, so don¡¯t act like you already own Lawrence!¡± she fired back with a hitched brows. The grin also yed on her lips. I re at her. ¡°How dare you?!¡± My voice rose. There, she gained the courage to face me with her crossed arms, twitching brows, and lips settled into a mocking smirked. ¡°Why? Does it hurt to know that Lawrence is only pursuing you because of your bastard son?!¡± My eyes widened at what she said. I was shaken to the core. She knew my weak spots and deepest pains. She knew very well how to attack me with such words. But I quickly postured myself and raised eyebrows as I looked at her. ¡°You can never be me, Elliesse. You were just part of Lawrence¡¯s past. I am the one he loves now and will be loved in theing days. No matter what you do, you can never take him away from me!¡± ¡°Yes, but it¡¯s just because you have Lawrence¡¯s child, and that¡¯s what you use to get him closer! How poor are you, Margaux!¡± she said sarcastically. I grab her arm again. ¡°No matter what you do, you will never win. Wake up. You¡¯re not on a fairytale, making love with your knight and shining armor!¡± I sarcastically said. I didn¡¯t even think twice when I pushed her into the swimming pool. She got the attention of the guests, who seemed surprised at what I did. ¡°You son of bitch!¡± she screamed as she lifted her head out of the water. ¡°That¡¯s what you deserve, asshole!¡± Hurt Hurt I DID NOT go to work the next day because of the bad feeling. Lawrence and I did not meet for a few days. After what happened at the party, I did not talk to him again. I don¡¯t think it is the right thing to do. But this is probably the best thing to do right now. If I continue to have a rtionship with Lawrence, I am sure there will be nothing left to him. Even everything he worked for will go to nothing. Maybe I should just follow his father¡¯s wishes¡ªand that was to be separated from him. ¡°Margaux, can we talk?¡± Cindy¡¯s voice spoke from outside of my bedroom door. ¡°Please, Margaux!¡± she said with a series of knocks. I blew out a deep breath and was forced to open the door. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± I turned my back on her and went back to bed, and sat down. I heard a deep sighed before she spoke. ¡°I should have asked you the same question! Look at you, Margaux! You look so damn miserable. You¡¯re pale. You will get sick if you are always locked in your room!¡± N?velDrama.Org owns this. She walked straight to the window and pulled back the curtain to open the window. I did not answer; instead, I just looked out the window. ¡°What happened to you? You will give up so d*mn easily? My God, Margaux, you are no longer a teen. How about rence?¡± My tears flowed because of what she said. ¡°You don¡¯t deserve all of these. Not rence either.¡± ¡°I thought you were happy. I thought you could find your forever and be a Saavedra like me. Did I just think all of that?¡± Her voice already cracked. She also grabbed my hand and held it tightly. ¡°Please, be strong. Be brave, Margaux.¡± My lips pursed tightly. I feel the muscles of my chin tremble like a distressed child. I couldn¡¯t stop the tears from dripping down my face. ¡°I can¡¯t. I¡¯m tired! I¡¯m tired of fighting. I was never the first choice. Even with Lester, he used to choose Sarah over me. He preferred that woman and left me!¡± My eyes burst with tears. I couldn¡¯t stop the emotion that wanted to get rid of me. ¡°And now, what do you want me to fight for? To be hurt over and over again? I¡¯m tired, Cindy. I don¡¯t want to!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t say that, please. Where is Margaux, who is brave and full of self-confidence? Where is my best friend, who is a fighter? This is not you!¡± I shook my head down and violently wiped away the tears. ¡°I want to be alone now,¡± I said in between my sobs. I heard her sigh before speaking. ¡°Alright, as long as you need someone to talk to, I¡¯m just here,¡± she said softly. I did not refuse her tight hug and caressed my back before finally leaving my room. There I sank myself into the pillow and continued to cry. Maybe nothing hurts more than I feel now. The pain throbs in my guts, and fire spears in my heart deeply. I can¡¯t count how many times I cried today until drowsiness dripped with tears still on my cheeks. It waste afternoon when I woke up. If I could, I would sleep for the rest of my life so that I would not know the feeling of being hurt. But I can¡¯t, because there is a child who depends on me. I don¡¯t just let myself drown in pain. I need to get up for my son. I will not allow him to be hurt. I will do my best to give him the life he deserves. I forced myself to get up and adjusted myself. I took a shower and eagerly went down to the dining room to join Daddy and Mommy for dinner. ¡°Manang, please give me a te!¡± She immediately attended to me and also put juice in the ss. ¡°Thanks!¡± ¡°Hija, it¡¯s good you came out of your room. We were so worried about you,¡± Mom said, but I could not get a nce. ¡°Hija, whatever your problem is with Lawrence, talk about it properly. Your child is also affected!¡± Dad added. It was only then that I looked up at them. I know rence and I are only thinking about their welfare. So, in the end, I just gave them a frugal smile and a nod. I quickly finished eating, then headed to rence¡¯s room. He slept soundly in the crib. My heart tore into pieces as I watched his angel-like face. As much as possible, I do not want to involve him in this problem anymore. I want him to live a normal life. He was too young to be hurt like this. I love him so much, and I don¡¯t let anybody hurt him. *** THE NEXT DAY, I woke up early and prepared myself to go to work. I also eagerly went to the table and apanied them with food. ¡°Good morning, Sweetheart!¡± I kissed rence, who was so happy with what I did. ¡°Oh, how smart my rence is!¡± I hugged him tightly before I started eating. ¡°It¡¯s good that you¡¯re fine!¡± Dad said to me. I just nodded and started eating. In fact, I just forced myself to smile because I don¡¯t want them to be affected by the weight I carry. ¡°Doris, I¡¯m leaving. You take care of rence, huh? Please tell Mom and Dad I¡¯m leaving!¡± I didn¡¯t let her answer because I turned my back on her to get in my car. ¡°Good morning. Do you feel okay?¡± Karen said with a shy smile on her face when I arrived at the office. Shended a cup of coffee and a sandwich on my table. I told her that I have the flu, so she didn¡¯t ask me anything. ¡°Actually, I¡¯m better now. Thanks for this.¡± I raised the cup of coffee before I sipped. ¡°Gosh, you just missed my coffee,¡± she said before finally turning her back on me. I smile as I look at her. But when she closed the door, I immediately lowered the cup and leaned back in my swivel chair. The smile also disappeared from my lips. I looked through the papers in front of me. It seems to be about a span high because of my few days off work. I was about to pick up my fountain pen and start signing them. I just spent the afternoon inside the office. I also did not receive a guest and canceled all my meetings. If Karen hadn¡¯t knocked to say it waste, I would not have looked up at the window. ¡°All right, Karen, go ahead. I¡¯ll just finish these papers.¡± After saying goodbye, I started putting away the papers on my desk and prepared myself to go home. I thought about opening my cellphone, which was also dead for a few days. I was not surprised by some texts from Cindy and Julia. I bit my lower lip. I hovered over the messages a few times and hoped to receive a message from Lawrence but nothing. I smiled bitterly. Why do I expect him to feel better after what happened? Forgive Me Forgive Me MAYBE HE REALIZED this too and just obeyed themand of his dad to choose Elliesse. It is also not a joke to lose everything he worked for just for rence and me. I shook my head as hate and enmity welled up in my heart. My eyes fall again, but I regain my strength. I quickly wiped away the tears that I wanted to drip and tried to calm myself. Eventually, I found myself wandering around the city. I was driving with no direction, and I didn¡¯t know where I was going. Until I passed Peter¡¯s restaurant, where he took me, I no longer bothered to park my car and get inside. I ordered a panzane and pizza margherita. I suddenly felt hungry as it was served to me while it was still smoking. I started eating while waiting for Brigette to join the stage. I heard from some customers that she would sing tonight. I was enjoying my food when I heard a familiar voice near me. When I looked at it, I did not make a mistake; Jocko was the one approaching me. ¡°Margaux!¡± He looked so surprised. The whole troop followed him, and the only one missing was Lawrence. I just reciprocated with a frugal smile before ncing at Cindy with a broad smile on my face. I could do nothing but partake of their table. After all, there is no reason for me to avoid them. Lawrence and I were the only ones in dispute, and the troops were not involved. The night deepened, and the vocalist started for her first song. We chose to sit at the round table near the stage and to have a morefortable drink. ¡°Hello, guys?!¡± I was startled from my seat when I saw Peter in his red jacket and white T-shirt underneath, denim pants and white shoes also fit his plump thighs. ¡°Peter!¡± Everyone except me who chose to look down on my tequ sunset greeted him. ¡°Where have you been? You really look like a businessman,¡± said Cindy. ¡°Just busy at work,¡± he said in a cheerful voice. I noticed he was rubbing his neck before sitting next to Jocko. Since we are just opposite each other, I decided just to ignore him. ¡°It looks like you¡¯re working really hard? And I heard you¡¯re dating a new vocalist named Brigette?¡± Jocko teased him. ¡°Please, introduce us!¡± I even heard Jocko¡¯s tease continued. ¡°You already know her, don¡¯t you?¡± I heard his answer. Because of what I heard, I looked up, and at that point, our eyes met. His eyes were dark, but there¡¯s so much light in them. His lips curved a bit, but also quickly turned his gaze to the stage. As he did, I also nced at the stage where Brigette was already singing. I pursed my lips. She sang very well. Her voice was very pleasing and effective in attracting the audience. Her hair is pulled back into a ponytail. She was dressed simply in a ck spaghetti strap top with a ck leather skirt and ck boots. I bowed because I felt the lines of the song prate my heart. I look back at Peter, who is staring at me now. I looked into his eyes, and I saw nothing but pain. Am I right? If I¡¯m wrong then, what? ¡°Bottom¡¯s up!¡± That look was only interrupted when Santino shouted. ¡°Peter, introduce Brigette to us!¡± Jocko said again that he did not want to let go and was obviously just bursting. He did nothing but stand up to go to the stage and called Brigette. ¡°Guys, she is Brigette Sy!¡± he finally introduced her to us. I caught him holding her elbow and still supporting her gently. Brigette waved at us then show off a sparingly smiled. He introduced us one by one. I almost choked when he introduced me as his special friend to everyone. Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org. I bit my lip hard as I reached for her hand. I stared at her because the ice in her hand seemed to be cold. She looked tense, so I smiled at her broadly before introducing myself. ¡°Hi! I¡¯m Margaux!¡± ¡°Uh, Brigette¡ªBrigette Sy!¡± she muttered lowly. Jocko moved in to give her space right next to Peter. I noticed he repeatedly nce at me! I just shrugged my shoulders and focused on what I was drinking. The deeper the night, the more intoxicated I became. I don¡¯t know what the topic is anymore. I just want to forget everything. The ones I no longer feel pain, the ones I don¡¯t have anymore. ¡°Margaux, you¡¯re drunk.¡± A concerned voice of Cindy ring in my head. I turned to her with dim eyes. Then suddenly, my eyes pooled with tears. I firmly bit my lip to prevent that. I smiled at her, and without hesitation, I hugged her tightly. I closed my eyes as I felt she caress my back. Shit, I think I¡¯m drunk! I tried to let go of it and was forced to smile at everyone. ¡°Margaux, you¡¯re already drunk,¡± she said in a low voice again. ¡°I¡¯m okay. I¡¯m not drunk yet,¡± I said with my shaky voice. So I pulled out the ss with just a dirty martini and drank it. I nced at Julia, who opened her mouth to me. I begged her to refill my ss, which she did immediately. Again I straightened the wine in my ss. Draw the heat of it in my throat, so I dropped the ss hard on the table. Everyone looked at me with awe. They know I¡¯m not a drinker person. But this time, I want to get drunk and lose myself even now. I asked for another ss, but I almost lost my bnce when Peter sat down holding my wrist. And without my clearance, he pulled me away from the table. Because of my dizziness and unsteadying step, I just let him take me somewhere. He took me on the rooftop without any difficulty. The cold air hit me on the cheek. It also freely blows some of my escaped hair from the navel. ¡°What is wrong with you, Margaux? You let yourself get drunk? You never used to be like that!¡± He was standing right in front of me and staring at me in the dark. I bite my tongue, trying to hold my tears. I looked around to avoid his scorching stares. ¡°Margaux . . .¡± he called my name in a soft and gentle tone and stepped closer to me. I bent down, but it became more of a way for the tears I had been holding back to break down. ¡°Margaux,¡± he whispered again. Unable to restrain myself, I held his arm tightly and looked up at him with tears in my eyes. ¡°Why is it hurts? Tell me that I made a mistake, Peter. Tell me that I made a mistake for loving him! I can¡¯t do this anymore, Peter . . .¡± I grabbed his jacket tightly and shook my head repeatedly. He didn¡¯t say a word. He just let me cry and let go of the weight I was feeling in my chest. I never thought I would give in for almost a week of self-control, and I also never thought that I would cry to Peter like this after I hurt him so much before. ¡°But you¡¯re not Lawrence! You¡¯re not the one I love! Tell me, is this my karma for all the stupid things I did to you before? Tell me, Peter, do I deserve this?!¡± I said with aced of bitterness. He lowered his head and gently caressed my wet cheek, so I opened my mouth to let in a small breath as tears welled in my eyes. ¡°How can I heal your broken heart if the cause is wasn¡¯t me?¡± he whispered. Marry Me Marry Me I LOOKED UP at him again and saw his pale eyes. While staring at me, the tightness in his jaws did not let up. ¡°Forgive me if I hurt you before. Maybe I need to correct my mistakes so I can make the right decision now. I don¡¯t know how I can talk to him!¡± I cried. He walked up to me slowly and pulled me closer to him, wrapping his arms around me. ¡°Shh, don¡¯t say that. That¡¯s fine. Just trust me.¡± N?velDrama.Org owns this. I sunk into his warmth hard chest. I closed my eyes and smelled his fragrant smell. His hugs still did not change. It was still the same as before. I could feel the warmth of his body: the security and the gentleness. How could it be that I hadn¡¯t seen his love before? Pure, unselfish, free, warm, cozy, and real. ¡°Talk to him. Lawrence is the type of man who will not give up easily. Just trust him.¡± Maybe he was right. I have to trust and believe we can still fix this. I slowly let go of him and wiped away the tears that dripped when he suddenly pulled my hand where the ring Lawrence gave to me still wore in my fingers. ¡°Just believe you can fix this.¡± He twitched his brows and gently stroked the diamond ring I was wearing. ¡°The ring is beautiful,¡± he whispered. I let out a smile before we were awakened by the footsteps that wereing. Jocko peeked out the door as if surprised to see the two of us. ¡°Lawrence is here,¡± he said before turning his back on us. My heart skipped a beat. I quickly looked up at Peter, who was already smiling at me. He stroked my hair and nodded. ¡°Take this chance to talk to him. I know you both deserve to be happy. Everyone deserves to be happy, either do I,¡± he murmured. My lips twitched at what he said. Is this the Peter I left before? I don¡¯t know why I still have the courage to face him and stand in front of him after what I did to him. And he is still ready to help me. ¡°Thank you, Peter!¡± I hugged him tightly again. I also quickly touched him with a kiss on the cheek which made him very red, and even scratched his neck. Iughed at his reaction, so we decided to go back downstairs. There were more people when we went down to the bar. The light is off, and the music is slow rock. Peter and I returned to the table at the same time. He sits beside Brigette again. I stepped aside from Cindy, who immediately whispered to me. ¡°I called him; I said you are here.¡± I shifted in my seat and caught a glimpse of Lawrence. He was leaning against his chair with so much authority. Carrick was next to him as if entertaining the neers. But his attention is only on me. He is wearing a gray polo shirt. Wet hair indicates that she had just gotten out of the shower. With his brows furrowed and his stiff jaw packed with tiny stubbles, he looked so intimidating in his position. His delicate, pointy lips were attractive and captivating, and that frown made my heart reach out. I didn¡¯t realize that I had been staring at him for so long. He arched his brows and nods toward the front door. At that point, he stood up to leave the restaurant. I felt Cindy bend over to me. ¡°Talk to him,¡± she whispered to me. I bent down and thought a few times about what to do until I decided to stand up to follow him outside. I immediately found him leaning against his car. I slowly took a step toward his direction, and he turned his gaze at me. My heart was thumping wildly against my chest. I can¡¯t exin how I felt after almost a week of not seeing each other. We were both silents. I also heard his deep sighed several times as he mmed into my side. ¡°How are you?¡± he started. I closed my eyes and then shook. I heard his violent exhtion again in the chest before speaking. ¡°Let¡¯s talk in some other ce,¡± he said. He turned around, and his car rm beeped. He opened the door of his car for me, and I no longer hesitated to ride and wear a seat belt. My heart pounded as he rode and started the engine. I nced at him. His eyes were still dark and serious. I feel like I will burn if I keep looking, so my eyes fall on myp. We only traveled a few minutes to his hotel. Again we went inside to the upper floor until we reach the rooftop. As usual, I was still chilled by the breeze. The night air is still incredible, as is the beautiful scenery. He guided me to sit on the bench that overlooks the beautiful city below. He gently pulled away from me, so I shifted ufortably at my seat. I wish I could just ignore him. I should have shouted at him earlier and hurt him, but I did not. ¡°Come here,¡± he whispered, then he pulled me closer to him. Without hesitation, he hugged my waist and put his chin on my shoulder. I gasped heavily. His arms were strong, and his chest was hard and firm. I feel like a child without a fight if I try to get out of his embarrassment. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you so much, Sweetie,¡± he said huskily. His lips touched my ear that made me shiver all over my body. ¡°I just came to realize that I can¡¯t live without you in my arms; that love does not require standards of beauty and wealth. I choose to love you because you deserve to be loved,¡± he whispered. He grabbed my hand and curled his fingers tight around my ring. The humidity of my heart increases rapidly. I can no longer breathe properly. He slowly traced my face that made me look up at him. His index fingers touched my lips as his gaze dropped to it. My heart was pounding fast, and my breaths get deeper. ¡°Will you marry me tomorrow?¡± White Rose White Rose ¡°WILL YOU MARRY me tomorrow?¡± As if I wanted tough at what he said. I turned my attention back to the beautiful city because I could not find the answer. ¡°Tomorrow, I will marry you. I want to make sure you never leave me again, that you will never escape me again.¡± I was swallowed up by what I heard. ¡°Do you agree?¡± My lips quivered at his question. I know I have no reason to refuse, but why is it so fast? ¡°We are not yet ready, Lawrence.¡± He groaned, he licked his lips, and it became redder. ¡°It takes one week to prepare. I make sure everything will be finalized and perfectly polished before I discuss this with you.¡± My lips parted in his revtion. So, this is the reason he did not see me for almost a week. ¡°I hate you!¡± My two eyes started to heat up. I let go of his embrace and wiped away my tears. ¡°Hey, where are those tearsing from? Tell me.¡± He pulled my cheek and faced me. He caressed my cheeks and slowly lowered his head to look at me evenly. I thought he chooses Elliesse. ¡°What about your dad? You can lose everything if you continue to have a rtionship with me.¡± ¡°I¡¯m good and stable. I don¡¯t need his money just to live. I have my own savings, and I will not fall if he takes everything from me and leaves nothing at all. I can start a new life and build a new one¡ªwith you and with our son.¡± I do not know what to say at this point. Tears welled up again, and I couldn¡¯t stop myself. My heartbeat elerates, this great pounding, this tremendous pressure. Nothing is running through my mind right now, but what can happen tomorrow, in theing days, and in the days toe with him. ¡°Please, marry me.¡± *** AFTER A LONG cold night, the daybreak brought glimmers of warmth. The golden light softly caressed my bare skin. I smiled when I heard the birds chirping outside. I peeked into the quiet sea that greeted me. Until now, I still can¡¯t believe I¡¯m here at the Saavedra Resort. Too much happened I did not expectst night. Lawrence¡¯s proposal to me was even more exciting. I thought this would be the end of the road for me. But that was not what destiny wants to give me. He gave me the best gift I ever wanted to receive. I almost had a happy ending, but it was immediately withdrawn from me even before it happened. I almost married the wrong person, the man I thought would give me happiness and not hurt me was able to leave me and exchange with another woman. But I¡¯m contented with what life can give me. I will never look for anyone other than Lawrence and rence. While hugging the bathrobe, I headed to the veranda. The beautiful beauty of the beach and the blue water greeted me. I looked at the food on the round table with a white rose and a letter attached to it. I sat in the chair and read the letter. Sweetie, Enjoy your breakfast and take some rest. I want you to be beautifulter at our wedding. I miss you so bad . . . Love, Lawrence My face heats up. I could not help but shudder while reading the letter. Wait, I need to tell Mom and Dad as well as Cindy and the whole troop about my wedding. I took my cellphone out of the bag and dialed our house¡¯s number. ¡°Hello?¡± Sita¡¯s voice answered. ¡°Good morning. This is Margaux. Is Mom there?¡± ¡°Oh, they left early earlier with rence. They said they would go to church after they went for a walk. Why, Ate?¡± I bit my lower lip hard and sat weakly on the side of the bed. ¡°Nothing. I¡¯ll just try to call on their cellphone.¡± I tried to contact them on their cellphone, but I couldn¡¯t reach them. I was slowly losing hope that they will not be able toe to my wedding. I also tried to call Cindy, but she also did not answer my calls. So I decided just to text them. Maybe they can read my text. Without hesitation, I put the cellphone on the side table and went back to bed. I also lost my appetite. How else can I eat if my wedding is today? I decided to take a bath and then only put on clothes after I was finished. I stared nkly at the mirror. I can feel my heart pounding in my chest louder than a crashing wave. I still can¡¯t believe this is happening. I¡¯m one step closer to my dreams¡ªeveryone¡¯s dream. So I could not get rid of the intense nervousness in my heart. I stared for a few more minutes before a faint knock aroused me. ¡°Trix?!¡± I greeted her with a tight hug. ¡°Oh, girl, you didn¡¯t tell me your wedding is today,¡± she said while she brought the makeup kit to the table. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, it was all of a sudden.¡± ¡°I promised to do your makeup on your wedding day. So, I flew over here.¡± I smiled sweetly at her and hugged her tightly. ¡°Thank you, Trixie!¡± I murmured. After a while, she started fixing my hair and makeup. And after about an hour, I was able to breathe properly. ¡°Nice! You¡¯ll definitely be so beautifulter!¡± Trixie eximed when she finished my makeup. This is the gown I chose, but I did not expect it to end quickly in less than a week. ¡°Thank you, Tanya. Are you with Mirasol?¡± I ask her who brought my gown. ¡°Yes!¡± she only sparsely answered me before turning on my back. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this. Later I was wearing the gown. I was taken aback when I saw myself in the full-length mirror. I can¡¯t believe how everything turned out. I never imagined my love story would turn into a fairytale, but at the moment, it seems like I want to be Cindere. I bite down my lip. My emotions were mixed until my eyes filled with tears. ¡°Oh! Don¡¯t cry. Your makeup will be ruined!¡± Trixie warned me. I blew out a deep breath after facing her. ¡°Thank you, Trix!¡± She only gave me a nod and nced down at her wristwatch. ¡°It¡¯s time!¡± said Trixie. She did a few more checks on my hair before she opened the door for me. I exited the suite as she supported my long gown at the back. Destiny (The End) Destiny (The End) I GOT A bit of a surprise when a row of resort employees greeted me. I reciprocated with a smile during my step. When my white heels stepped on the sand, I couldn¡¯t help but smile. Maybe there is nothing wrong with undressing it? It doesn¡¯t matter if I wore anything. The important thing is that I get to the end where I know someone is waiting for me. I can see the aisle from here. I can¡¯t still believe this is happening. Tears started to form in my eyes when I saw my friends and rtives waiting for me. They areplete¡ªDad and Mom with rence, Cindy, Carrick, Jocko, and others with their That¡¯s when I can¡¯t hold back my tears. It continued to run down my cheek. I paused for a moment as if unable to step on my feet due to too much emotion. Mom and Dad immediately approached me to hug me tightly. Mommy wiped away my tears and handed me the bouquet of roses. ¡°I thought you couldn¡¯te?¡± I said with full of amazement. ¡°Lawrence nned this smoothly. At first, I didn¡¯t want to agree, but your man was very consistent,¡± Dad told me. ¡°We¡¯re so happy for you, hija. Finally, you¡¯ve found the right man for you,¡± Mom said in between her sobs. She also did not suppress the emotion. ¡°Mom . . .¡± I whimpered with joy. ¡°That¡¯s right, and the best thing is toe!¡± Dad cut us off. The band began to y to the apaniment of beautiful music. Again my tears threatened to spill in my eyes when we started walking on the long carpet. I saw Cindy, Julia, Sam, and Ally. They were so beautiful wearing colored champagne gowns. Cindy wiped away her tears before smiling broadly at me. On the other hand, Carrick, Jocko, Santino, Jeremy, and William were handsome, wearing an Americana. And to my surprised, Peter was also there. His smile was warmer than the gentle sun while wearing his gray tuxedo. I took a deep breath before turning my attention to the front, where Lawrence was waiting for me. I believed that fairytales doe true if you put some trust, effort, and patience into it. I did not want too much. I just need someone who could love me the way I deserve to be loved. My heart moved as I took a moment to stare at his features carefully. I openly gaped as I observed his sharp jaw, chin, and cheekbones. His dark brows were actually graceful, and dark eyes make me weak at the knees. His soft, sharp lips were perfectly ripe for the kissing. I held my breath as he stared deep into my eyes. I couldn¡¯t help but blush. It is undeniable that he stands out from everyone. He was wearing a ck tuxedo while Franco was next to him. Lawrence bent down as he shook and tapped Franco on the shoulder. As I approached, the throbbing of my chest grew more vigorous. Until I stopped in front of him, he immediately faced Dad and Mom. Dad happily gave my hand to him as he patted Lawrence¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Take care of my daughter,¡± Dad told him. Lawrence answered well before formally presenting his hand in front of me. I didn¡¯t even think twice when I grabbed his hand tightly. His hand slowly but surely caress my back to help me walk. ¡°You¡¯re the most beautiful bride I¡¯ve ever seen,¡± he whispered to me. I could not answer immediately. N?velDrama.Org owns this. My mind was still floating at the moment. Even the start of the wedding ceremony did not enter my mind. ¡°I now pronounce you, husband and wife,¡± the priest announced and turned to Lawrence. ¡°You may now kiss your bride.¡± At the same time, the witnesses to the wedding were strongly tempted. My breath was ripped from my lungs as I turned my gaze to Lawrence. His eyes were gleaming with amusement. He then slowly licked his lips, and he gently stroked my cheek. Finally, he whispered, ¡°I love you.¡± That kiss came slowly. It¡¯s not just an ordinary kiss. Because the kiss we shared was long and sweet, we would not have separated if everyone had not apuded. The celebration was held at the Pavilion de Saavedra. The reception was crowded. Almost all of Lawrence¡¯s friends, acquaintances, and business partners came. I greeted them warmly next to Lawrence while carrying our son rence. ¡°Can we just leave now?¡± he whispered to me and also yed the malicious smile on his lips. My eyes widened after I pinched him on his side, which made him wince in pain. ¡°Can you still do that when you¡¯re in my bed, huh?¡± he whispered huskily. He also quickly pulled my hip closer to him. I swallowed hard. I couldn¡¯t help but blush because of what he said. Fortunately, Cindy and I were immediately approached by the whole troop. ¡°Congrats, guys! I still can¡¯t believe the speed of your marriage!¡± said Cindy, who hugged me tightly. ¡°Congrats!¡± Jocko even punched his arm, which he immediately retaliated. We were filled withughter and stories as weughed inside the pavilion. Until Peter¡¯s approach aroused me. ¡°Congrats!¡± he said, a genuine smile appeared on his face. I didn¡¯t think twice, but I hugged him tightly. I buried my face under his warm arms. ¡°Thank you, Peter,¡± I murmured. I could hear Jocko whistling with us, so I finally let go of him with a smile on my face. He turned to Lawrence and greeted him as well. It looks like the two of them are getting along. The night deepened, and everyone was having fun. Lawrence and I were at the side watching the other dancers in the middle of the dance floor. ¡°Dad called me earlier,¡± Lawrence started. I felt his warm palm on my shoulder, gently caressing my exposed skin. I slowly lift my eyes to him. My heart was full of excitement as I waited for him to say more. ¡°He congratted us.¡± He turned his dark gaze on me. ¡°He wants us to visit the mansion after our honeymoon.¡± I was able to breathe easily because of what I heard. Finally, we also got his Dad¡¯s approval even though he did not attend our wedding. He moved closer and wrapped his arms around me. He lowered his head and kissed the base of my neck, and buried his face there. ¡°You always smells good, my wife,¡± he uttered under his warm breath. He hugged me even tighter and squeezed my neck. ¡°Let¡¯s escape the night.¡± Before I could speak, we suddenly stood up when he held my hand gently, and we walked toward the door. We reached his presidential suite withbored breath. I screamed when he suddenly squeezed my waist and loaded me into the room. He slowly and gentlyid me down on the soft bed. His stares were warming me. I could hardly breathe because we were so close to each other. His eyes were intently on me. I got lost in the moment like I always do. My heart became more and more submissive when I looked at him. Then he kissed me. At first, it was soft, but that kiss deepened when I grabbed the nape of his. His insisting mouth was parting my trembled lips, and I swallowed his groans of pleasure. My pulse is beating fast, my heart throbs. I can no longer think straight. I also feel that my gown is out of order. His hands were everywhere. I no longer know how to respond to these scorching caresses. He stopped and effortlessly took off his coat and pants. I had to bite my tongue damn hard. How many times have I seen his body with my two eyes? But the same feeling hit me big time. It is even stronger now because his muscles in the body have be more toned and darker. He stared back, eyes revealing more than his eyes can express. A small grin appeared on his soft damnable lips. Damn it! He¡¯s on his way to my gown now. He does not hesitate to take off my clothes. And now revealing my naked body to his. He paused and looked at me. There seemed to be a twinkle in his eye as he leaned over me. His lips twitched a little and softly caress my cheeks. ¡°You¡¯re so damn beautiful, my wife,¡± he utter huskily. There is no doubt in my mind. He kissed me once more and bowed to me. Every kiss has a certain rawness and intensity to it. As he pushed me down, my head leaned on the pillow. ¡°Uh, fuck!¡± he groaned. He positioned between my thighs. My mouth lets out a moan in ecstasy as I imagine him inside me. His head moved around to my left ear and touched my sensitive skin. ¡°I love you . . .¡± he whispered. At that point, we were the only ones talking and filling the room with music that only we know. THE END.... The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!