《Falling For The Man I Married》 Chapter 1: Beautiful Boss Chapter 1: Beautiful Boss Rude!''- My everyday line in my head every time he doesn''tment on anything. No ''thank you'' or whatsoever after giving his orders. I told you, he doesn''t know the word thank you. It doesn''t exist in his vocabry. ************************************************** Madi''s POV: "Tell me Madi, why do you have to apply for another job? You already have your own fine dining restaurants. Three big freaking restaurants in the City. And you''re notcking out of money, in fact, you give almost half of them to your charities. God! Aren''t you feeling exhausted?" That''s Noelle. My best friend and manager to one of my three restaurants operating in the City. "Because I told you it''s also my dream since college. That''s why I also took a business degree to fulfil my bucket list of dreams." I tried to reason with her but still, she couldn''t understand my point. It has been a month since I started working as a Personal Assistant at Wilsons Electronics Corporation under the management of Mr Gabriel Wilsons, our CEO. And let me tell you, the pressure of working at the biggestpany in the City of Chicago sometimes gets out of control. Running there and everywhere, sending faxes, emailing documents, checking and updating my boss''s schedules and making his coffee three times a day is just a small part of my everyday routine. Of course, my duties and responsibilities as the owner of my own business are not yet included. "Besides, it''s part of my job to feel tired and exhausted. Come on." I waved my hand in the air and continued checking some papers that need my signature. We are currently in the back office of my first restaurant which is a 20-minute drive from the WEC building. Today is Sunday and it''s my day off, so I can use the whole day checking out my three outlets. "Yeah, but you''re not getting any younger. You''re already 26, single, no boyfriend since birth and a freaking virgin in all departments, Forgodsake!" Thank God, the office is soundproof, so I don''t have to cover her mouth even if she screams out of her lungs. Ever since she found out that I got the job at Wilsons, she has started rambling and rambling on me. "Hey! Stop mentioning my age and status." I just chuckled at her as I brought the ss of orange juice to my mouth. "Okay fine. So, tell me, how''s your boss''s attitude towards his employees? Is he someone like you, considerate and warm?" I almost choked on my juice after hearing her words. My boss... considerate? I don''t think so, I''m not sure. Warm? Haha.. the total opposite. He''s like a walking ice man every day. No, the right word is that he''s like a zombie, cold and lifeless. There''s something wrong with his personality that I couldn''t figure out. He''s a man of few words...Nah! I mean one word. "Honestly, he''s the total opposite of the boss you''re imagining." "What do you mean, the total opposite?" "Well, He''s cold, a little rude and arrogant sometimes. He doesn''t know the word thank you and likes to shout every time--- any time especially when he found something wrong or error on your reports, tsk. tsk. He won''t give you any choice, it''s either you get your ears ready or get yourself ready to say goodbye to your job." "Ohh, that''s harsh?" she said in disbelief. "Yup." I said popping the ''p'' at the end. "But, thanks to my skills and abilities, I have never been shouted at by him since day one," I proudly stated with my chest out and an arched eyebrow. "Pss!" she rolled her eyes. "Wow! A loner and aggressive boss plus a narcissistic PA work in one. Yeah, I am really doubting how you two manage to interact with each other." "Me? Narcissistic?" I acted horrified as I pointed to myself. "Of course not! I''m just stating some facts about myself." "Yeah, it''s exactly, what you are doing." I didn''t counter back. I justughed and took a sip of my juice again. "Hmm.. by the way, how can you describe him physically?" she has this malicious look in her eyes. I sighed, rolling my eyes. How would I describe him? "How would I describe him? Hmm.. well, let''s just say he''s a living Hercules of the country. Happy?" "Oh shit! Describe exactly that living Hercules from head to toe!" all her round eyes were on me. "What? Seriously?" "Yes! Because if that''s true, you have a fucking hot of a boss! Yum!" she squealed, pping her hands. I just shook shake my head. "Okay.. he''s hot. He''s handsome if you will look at his face, he''s got brown eyes, perfectly sculptured nose, chiselled jawline... what else... hmm.. broad shoulders, toned and muscled chest, I guess?" "You guess?" "Yup." "You just guess? Are you kidding me?" she furrowed her eyebrows. "Well, I haven''t seen him shirtless or in other attire than his business suit. What do you expect?" "My God, Madielyn! You just let my imagination run wild. Hmmp! How about the size of his foot or at least his shoes? For sure, you can see them every day!" "Why do you need to know the size of his foot and shoes? Are you nning to buy him a new one?" I tried to throw a joke but it was just meughing at my own joke. She red at me. "You wouldn''t understand because you''re a virgin!" "What the-----" "Just tell me the size of his foot!" "I don''t know exactly the size of his freaking foot, just his shoes!" "So, what is it?" her eyes were round as saucers. What''s happening to her? "Uhm.. 10.. 11? Maybe 12?" I answered bringing the half ss of juice to my mouth. "Oh, Jesus! He has a huge and long member!" She eximed loudly that caused my eyes to widen and I spit out the juice all over her blouse when I coughed. I even coughed so hard when I saw her awful face. I really wanted tough at her state if it weren''t for the cough that made it impossible for me to do. "Yucks! you''re disgusting!" sheined as she wiped her blouse with a tissue. "I''m sorry." I was trying not tough. "But it''s your fault. You can''t control your mouth saying those----" "What? Saying those gross, nasty, dirty, filthy words like a huge and hard member, penis and cock----" "Noelle! I swear, I''m not going to discuss my boss''s body with you again! You really have a dirty mouth!" It''s now her who''sughing at me. I arranged my already signed documents inside the folder and pushed them towards her. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "My God!" I said getting up, stretching my arms. "Where are you going?" she''s stillughing. "I''m just going out for a random check." I huffed and walked towards the door. "Okay." She tried to hide her smile, but she failed. It''s my weekly routine when I visit each of my outlets. Check randomly on its area and all the employees. I went first to the kitchen where my staff are busy cooking and preparing orders. Since it''s Sunday, our customers have doubled numberspared to weekdays. "Good morning, Ms Madi" I was greeted first by the group of waiters taking their customer''s orders. "Good morning, guys. How''s your day?" I treat them all like my friends and not just ordinary employees. As they say, if you want to earn the respect of others, treat them the way you want them to treat you back. "Well... tiring as always. But we''re happy because our beautiful boss came to visit us today, right guys?" Tony winked at me, he''s our head waiter. "Yes." they all answered in unison. "Wow, thank you. Such a small thing--- beautiful? Nah... I already know that." I said grinning proudly while patting my shoulder in the act of wiping dirt. And theyughed and some shake their heads. "Yeah. See? That''s what we''re talking about. You always make usugh." "Why? Am I not beautiful?" I joke on a horrified face. "Of course you are. You''re beautiful inside and out, Ms Madi. You just really like carrying your own chair not just sometimes but always." And theyughed again and Iughed with them too. We''re always like this. I always make a way to have at least a small conversation with them. Even if sometimes I carried my own chair, but it''s worth it if that''s the way they would open up to me, not just as their boss but as their considered friend. The next area I went to visit is the dining hall. And yeah, it''s really a tiring day. They were all busy serving and assisting customers. People rarely see me in and out of my restaurants. I always keep myself on a low profile. I monitor the reports and happenings on my business usually through my phone andputer. I show my face once or twice a week or whenever there are papers that need my signature or my appearance personally. There were just a few people who know that I took another course, my mom and my friends after opening my first restaurant. I took Hotel and Restaurant Management course in college. After I graduated and started my business, I enrolled in an online school for Office and Business Management and got my degree. My first job as an ''employee'' was a Department Manager, but I resigned after a year. I applied again as an HR assistant in a not-so-bigpany in the City and after a year too, I saw the ads on social media that the WEC needs a PA to the CEO. I tried my luck and got the job. I didn''t put my first course and my business when I submitted my resume. In short, my boss and thepany I currently work for are not aware of this. After a random check in the restaurant, I said goodbye to Noelle and went to my another outlet. I spent the whole day visiting my stores and checking some important papers. I only got home when it''s already 6 in the afternoon. I lived in a small apartment and had a roommate who is a bank manager. She also knows my business because we have been living together for 2 years and the reason why I decided to live in a small apartment. After eating dinner, we sat in the living room and watched a romance movie by Hallmark. But since tomorrow is Monday, I went early to bed. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Chapter 2: His Cold Voice Chapter 2: His Cold Voice Waking up early hasn''t been that new to me. But, since I hate mornings, I still put an hour allowance before I go to work every day because I''m telling you, almost all my time in the morning I take it this way; first 5 minutes-- sitting on the bed, stretching and doing nothing. 10 minutes-- checking my phone, emails and text messages from my managers, my mom and don''t forget my boss. Another 10 minutes-- preparing my clothes, 15 minutes-- taking shower and talking to myself in the mirror. And I have to spend thest few minutes wearing my clothes and do my makeup. So sometimes, eating breakfast is not included in my daily routine. Upon entering our office building, I started to wear my natural smile. I''m twenty minutes early, so I don''t have to rush my feet gettingte. I still have time to say ''Hi'' and have a little ''chat'' with another employee who greets me. Well, not all of them like me. There were some of them who hated me, especially those who are members of my boss''s fans club. And that two members of that fan''s club were Ailene and Jenny. They hate me for being their boss''s PA, in short.. they envy me. They were talking nonsense and I just choose to ignore them like I always do every time I see them. Walking out from the elevator, they turned their way left with a scowl on their face. I haven''t put down my things when Sandy, the CEO''s secretary came frowning at my office door. "I''ve been calling you in the lobby, but you just ignored me!" she said with knitted brows. "Ohh, I''m sorry. I didn''t hear you." "Hmmp! It''s okay. I just want to give you this." she has a brown paper bag on her hand. "What''s this?" I asked epting the bag from her. "Hmm, it''s just chocte cupcakes. I brought you some because I know you skipped breakfast every day." she rolled her eyes. "Ahh.. you''re so sweet. Thank you." I hugged her and she patted my arm. She''s just 4 months ahead of me. And like me, she also suffered from Jenny and Ailene''s bullying club when she''s just started working. "Wait! Is the boss already here?" her eyes widened. "Rx, we''re a bit early. He hadn''te yet." R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only "Haist!" she sighed and I chuckled. "Thank you for this." I lifted the brown bag. "You''re wee. Just let me my new boyfriend and Ie to your restaurant and eat for free." she winked at me wiggling her eyebrows and Iughed. "So, that''s it. In exchange for this cupcakes----" "Just kidding!" sheughed with me. In addition to my friends, I also revealed my secret to her. And she promised to keep it to herself until I say so. "Nah! Seriously, just text me or let me know whenever you want to go there and it''s on me. And if you want to ask your boyfriend for a date, just call me." "What? I admit, your idea is really good and tempting Madi, but no way in hell will I ask him for a date and pay everything for him! Just no way!" Iughed at her bitter reaction. "And why? You know, it''s a give and take for a rtionship to work." "Don''t tell me, you''re willing to do that when you''re dating?" "Why not? As I said, it''s always a give and take in a rtionship. You have to learn that process if you want both of you to work." I exined not noticing that our boss stopped in front of my office door. We continued our conversation. "But you''re a girl Madi, and he''s the guy!" "And so... what if he''s a guy?" "So, he should be the one paying bills on your dates and handling all your needs! He should be the one taking all the efforts on your rtionship!" "Sandy, why are we talking about money here? We''re talking about a rtionship. And as I told you, if you want your rtionship to work, you should learn the give and take process. Whether you''re a guy or a girl, you need both to give an effort to your rtionship. Being a girl doesn''t mean, you can''t ask your guy for a date." "Ohh.. that means your generosity has no limits!" She rolled my eyes. "I''m going to set you on a blind date!" she smiled evilly. "A blind date?" my face turned sour at her idea. "Yes, a blind date!" she repeated proudly. I was about toin when the hidden figure at the door showed himself and approached us. "No one will set a blind date to anyone, especially when you''re at work." his cold voice rang in our both ears that caused our eyes to turn wide like saucers. "G-Good morning, Sir." Sandy greeted him first, stuttering. "Good morning. Mr Wilsons." I greeted him in a chin up. It''s still 10 minutes before our official time in, so we don''t have to worry about being caught chatting by our boss. "Ms Agur, had you finished those papers that I gave you yesterday?" he asked her but his eyes focused on me. I didn''t look down, I just gulped. His cold stare brought sparks down my spine. It''s weird, but I tried to look away and nced at Sandy who''s looking at her feet. "Yes, Sir. I''ll bring it to your office immediately." She said but he just ignored her. "Ms Davis, bring me my coffee and my schedules for today," he said without leaving his eyes on me. "Yes Sir, right away." I managed to smile and turned to break his freaking stare. Sandy excused herself and went to her office which is right across mine. "Whew!" I sighed when he ''finally'' came out of my office. I went to the pantry to make him his first coffee of the day. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Knocking on his office door, I heard his cold voice inside saying e in''. I took a deep breath before entering the door. The cold atmosphere in the room mixed with his cold voice sending goosebumps all over my body. Right there on his table is the cold and heartless CEO, Gabriel Wilsons. He has the five o''clock shadow and a pink pair of lips that I almost dream of kissing. I shake my head with my naughty thoughts. "Mr Wilsons. Your coffee, Sir." I put it on his desk. He didn''t say anything. He didn''t even look at me. -''Rude!''- My everyday line on my head every time he didn''tment or say anything. No ''thank you'' or whatsoever after giving his orders. I told you, he doesn''t know the word thank you. It doesn''t exist in his vocabry. "Do you need anything else, Sir?" "My schedule." -''Oh... I forgot.''- I mentally rolled my eyes and recited his schedules for the day. "Anything else, Sir?" I keep my smile on my face. "Nothing so far. You can go back to work," he said not looking at me but at the papers in his hands. I didn''t waste any second, I turned to the door.. only to stopped by his cold voice. "Ms Davis." I immediately turned around. "Call Ms Agur, when you leave." then he turned his eyes back at the pile of papers. That''s it. The second word that doesn''t list on his vocabry, besides thank you--- ''Please''. -''You''re wee''- The tiny voice screamed in my mind. "Okay, Sir." I sighed loudly and went out of his office. Sandy was busy searching for something on herputer when I walked into her office. "Sandy." She looked up when she heard my voice. "Mr Wilsons wants to see you." "Oh... okay." I chuckled as she seemed startled. I don''t know why she hasn''t gotten used yet to our boss''s cold and stern demeanour. "Rx. He won''t bite you." I tried to joke but she just huffed loudly. "Yeah, I know. And I don''t get it, how you managed to stay cool and rxed in front of him!" I need to cover my mouth to stifle myughter. "Maybe because I am also a boss?" I whisperedughing as I looked around. "Oh... yeah, I forgot. How silly of me. Hmph!" she took the red folder on top of her table and walked to the door. I followed her out. "Good luck." I chuckled, teasing her. "I hate you!" and Iughed even more before walking back to my office. Chapter 3: His Cold Stare Chapter 3: His Cold Stare Madi''s POV: Answering some phone calls and checking out his new schedules, took up almost half of my day. I didn''t notice how time passed and it''s already lunchtime. Sandy appeared at my office door wearing her hungry smile. "What''s up? Work over food?" I smiled. "Fine. I haven''t noticed the time." "Hmmp! That''s your dialogue every day," she said rolling her eyes. "Really? I didn''t know that." I said smiling widely as I cleaned the table. I just got my phone and my purse before going to the elevator down to the cafeteria of the building. "You know what, I have a wonderful story." I nced at her while entering the busiest side of the building at this hour. "And what is it?" "About our boss." she covered her mouth on the other side so no one could hear her voice except us. And it intrigues me. I arched my eyebrow. "That''s gossiping!" I told her even though it really intrigued me to the bone. "His cold behaviour has a story." she continued whispering. "What story?" "I heard, he was betrayed by his ex. The one he loved but also the one who got away. She left him." I don''t know but hearing him already loved someone else gives my heart a slight pinch. But I just ignored it and opened my ears to the additional information from her. "How did you get that?" I asked her all ears. "I just heard it when I went to the finance department earlier. And you know what, after that incident, that''s when he epted the position from his father to be the CEO of WEC." I turned to her, trying to gather more of her story. "Plus... they said after his ex cheated on him with another man, he became cold and heartless." "Hey! You heard it from someone talking behind his back?" I eyed her. "Yes, but I didn''t mean to. They were already talking when I passed them. And don''t tell me you''re not interested, because everyone in this building loves to gossip about his life." "I''m not interested." I lied. "I''m just intrigued." She chuckled behind me as I entered where the line starts. "Girl, that''s the same. It''s a synonym of interested." So, he was betrayed? I wonder if his behaviour he shows us today is different from his personality before he was duped by his ex. Wait? What kind of ex? Ex-girlfriend or ex-wife? "Ex-fiancee." I was shocked and my head immediately snapped in Sandy''s direction. "You heard it?" I asked with wide eyes. I''m just asking myself. She chuckled again. "Of course, silly! Your thinking so loud!" "Ohh.." the only word that came out of my mouth. I bit my bottom lip in slight embarrassment. I hope no one has heard me talk to myself except her. "So... that''s what you call ''not interested'', huh?" She smirked but I rolled my eyes. "Hi, Madi." I was saved by the bell when Troy from HR department greeted me over two people in the line ahead of me. "Hi, Troy." I smiled at him. "Hmmp! The flirting has begun." Sandy muttered to herself but I justugh. She keeps on insisting that Troy has a big crush on me but I also keep ignoring her. The thing is, even though he has a crush on me, I don''t see anything wrong with that. And that''s not a valid reason to avoid him. For me, as long as I don''t give him any motive to bring his ''crush'' on me to any level, I don''t need to stay away from him. Besides, I also considered him my friend. He joined us at our table as he always did every day. Of course, sitting next to me. * * * "I really love their chicken sandwich." Troy said, unwrapping the second sandwich on his hands. "I can see that," Sandy said while grinning. I swirled the spaghetti on my fork and shoved it to my mouth. "Troy, where are you from?" Sandy asked him suddenly. "Me? I''m from Florida," he answered and Sandy and I shared a look. "You also came from Florida?" I asked, facing him. "Yeah, that''s where I lived before I tried my luck here in Chicago. Why? Don''t tell me you were also from Florida?" "Well... yeah." I shrugged. "That''s my birthce." "Wow, great." we both looked at Sandy. She just shrugged and took a sip of her juice. I know that kind of look. "Yeah, destiny." my eyes widened at Troy''s word but widened more when Sandy spat half the juice out of her mouth and coughed. "Sandy!" I red at her. Thank God, I''ve already finished my food. "I''m sorry," she said, still coughing. "You did it on purpose!" I used her. "What? Of course not! Can''t you see I''m coughing to death? me him!" She pointed to Troy next to me. "Wait? Why me?" Troy asked confused. "Because you mentioned the word destiny!" she snapped at him. "And so? Maybe it''s a real destiny that Madi and Ie from the samend." he retorted aloud. "Yeah! So, it''s really your fault!" she snapped again in a louder voice than Troy. "Wait! I can''t see my fault on this! What if I said that Madi and I were brought here by destiny?" -''Oh God!''- I just bit my bottom lower lip, massaging my temple. I looked around to see almost all the eyes of the people sitting inside the Cafeteria were now on us. And the pair of brown eyes that owned by Mr Wilsons also staring at us -- coldly... well, staring at me. "Hey! You two, stop bickering over your food. You''re creating a scene and gathering attention!" They looked around and smiled to those who were raising their eyebrows on them. But they didn''t notice the cold stare of our boss from the corner--not--so--far from our table. Sandy continued to eat while Troy scratched the back of his neck. After we finished our lunch, we headed back to our desks, while Troy returned to his department. I didn''t found Mr Wilsons where he''s seated earlier. I checked the time on my wristwatch and found it 5 minutes before 1 pm. I need to go to the pantry to make another coffee for my boss. I also bring my notepad to remind him of his scheduled meeting at 1:30 pm. After 5 minutes, I am knocking again on his office door. "Come in." Ohh... Thank God, the coffee in my hand didn''t freeze from the coldness of his voice. -''Why does he have to be so cold?''- I pushed the door and found him on the phone. He''s talking to someone on the other line, so I didn''t greet him. I put the mug on his desk and wait for the call to finish. "I didn''t ask for your opinion regarding this matter!" I gulped as he yelled that someone on the other line. "I am paying you to investigate her, to monitor her and not to interrogate me! Understood?" Maybe he didn''t wait for that someone to answer as he ended the call right after screaming. -''Wow!''- I mentally arched my eyebrow. -''Not so arrogant!''- "Your coffee, Mr Wilsons," I said with a slight smile, pretending not to have heard anything. Liar! "What''s my next schedule?" He sat on his chair. I remained standing as I opened my notepad. "You have a meeting with Cordova''s Marketing at 1:30 pm. Their COO will be the one to meet you along with his secretary. And as per his secretary, they will present their project presentation regarding the new product they want ourpany to buy." I''ve stated fluently. As I finished, I looked at him only to see him staring nkly at the bookshelves on his left. I waited for him to speak but minutes have passed, he hasn''t moved a bit. Then there''s a new notification on his phone and he unconsciously swiped it by his arm. And since it''s on the table, I was able to see the picture that popped up on it. I gulped as I saw the picture of a woman with a man''s arm over her shoulders. I averted my eyes away from it and focused on my notepad. I remembered Sandy''s story earlier. I looked at him through myshes and I didn''t miss how he clenched his jaws and his knuckles turned white from the grip he''s giving to his phone. -''Poor phone. I''m sorry for you and for your suffering.''- "Mr Wilsons." I tried to call his attention. His head snapped at me and I flinched slightly at the look in his eyes. But when he realized that it''s me who''s standing in front of him, his eyes softened a bit and he let out a sigh. "What''s my next schedule?" -''Huh?''- My mouth fell open by his question. So, I became really invisible to him earlier? I just mentally rolled my eyes and repeated what I said earlier regarding his next meeting. As if I have a choice. "Okay. Be ready at that time." "Yes, Sir. Anything else?" "Nothing more." I nodded and walked out of his office. Walking back to my desk, my mind was left on the picture of the woman I saw from his phone. I can''t help but think again what has Sandy told me about Mr Wilsons'' past. As long as I don''t want to snoop other people''s lives, I can''t help but be intrigued by his past. Maybe the rumor was true, because of his cold behaviour. Was that woman really the reason he was distant? Does he still know how to smile? Ever since I started working in thispany, I have never seen him laugh or even smile. Whenever his employees greeted him, he didn''t even greet them back. His face was always masked with seriousness and coldness. My thoughts were interrupted by a text message from George, one of my managers from my second restaurant. She''s also my friend from college. George: ''Madi, can you drop by before you go home? We just need your signature for the restaurant permit renewal. Thanks.'' Me: ''Okay... thanks, George.'' I replied back. I checked my watch and it''s 5 minutes before 1:30. I gathered my things and walked out the door. I saw Sandy walking towards me, she came from the elevator. For sure she just checked the conference room where the meeting will be held. "The meeting room is ready," she said smiling. "Thank you, Sandy." "Yeah, good luck." Before I could answer, the door from the CEO''s office opened and there he stepped out the Greek God himself, I mean... Mr Gabriel Wilsons, wearing his signature cold demeanour. "Let''s go," he said as he walked past me. Sandy winked at me when I nced back at her. I always thank God for giving me the ability to walk fast. I was a track in field athlete when I was in elementary and high school. So, I can follow the long strides of this giant. He entered the elevator with me trailing behind him. I pressed the close button and our designated floor. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ It''s been almost one hour since the presentation began. I am always attentive to listen to this matter because sometimes, my opinion was being asked by my boss himself during the meeting. It continued until 2:45 pm. That means the discussionsted 1 hour and 15 minutes to be exact. All throughout the meeting, there was a pair of eyes that keep staring at me. It belonged to Mr Emerson Solivan, the secretary of the CEO of Cordova. But I''m busy listening to the discussion in front of me, so I just ignored him and acted oblivious to his stare. When everyone got up, I collected my things with some of the mess from the table. They congratted each other and exchanged handshakes. I was about to go to the next chair to pick up another folder that was used from the meeting when someone bumped me on my shoulder. Not only did the folder from my hand fall to the floor but did I. I wasn''t expecting the sudden strength, and since I''m wearing heels, I hadn''t bnced my body so I end up falling to the floor with my butt first. "Ouch!" I groaned in pain and I don''t know if I said it out loud. Thank God, some of the people have already left the room. "Oh! I''m sorry, Ms Davis. I didn''t notice you." Mr Solivan exined as if I am going to buy his foul excuse. I know he intentionally pushed me for me to talk to him, as I haven''t spared him a nce since I found him staring at me. "It''s okay Mr Solivan." I managed to say with a smile. I am wearing a skirt and I noticed him gulped when he saw my legs. I tried to stand on my own, and he bent himself to help me but he was stopped by a cold serious voice behind me. "Don''t touch her, Mr Solivan! Or I swear I''ll break your arms!" Mr Solivan swallowed nervously when Mr Wilsons appeared in front of me ring at him. My eyes snapped at him as his two hands now in front of me, offering me help to stand up. When I was sure of his intention, I didn''t hesitate to grasp them. He helped me to get up, and when I was on my own feet, he faced the pale man who is now also sweating from nervousness. "I saw you, how you eye-raped my assistant while we were all discussing your proposal! And you intentionally bumped her, to make her fall and you act as if you were helping her to stand!" "N-No... S-Sir. It''s just ----" "If you continued standing in front of me, I swear this would be yourst job in your life!" "O-Ohh... I''m sorry Sir, Ms Davis." This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org. And he ran out of the door. "Thank you, Sir." I gulped as I bent to pick up the folder from the floor. But to my not--so--lucky day, my forehead bumped into another forehead... Mr Wilsons forehead to be exact. "Fuck!" "Ouch!" We eximed in unison as we both rubbed our forehead. "What a shity day!" I muttered slowly to myself before picking up the folder again. "I''m sorry, Sir." I managed to say before collecting all the folders from the table. He didn''t say anything, he just walked past me towards the door. ''-What do I expect?''- After gathering all my things, I followed him and exited the room. Chapter 4: Do you have a boyfriend? Chapter 4: Do you have a boyfriend? Madi''s POV: It''s been one week since the conference room incident. I told Sandy about it and she never did anything but tough her every time she remembers it. "I wish I was there to capture that moment." That''s what she always says. I evenughed with her, but thank God the issue has died suddenly. And here we are back at the Cafeteria, having our lunch with Troy ... next to me again. "Ahm... Madi?" Troy called my attention while I was munching my gingerbread. "Hmm?" "I have a question." "What is it?" I looked at him. He''s wearing a sheepish smile on his face. "D-Do you have a boyfriend?" Sandy and I broke our trance and I subconsciously swallowed my food quickly. "No...why?" "Uhm, c-can I invite for a d-dinner sometime?" he asked stuttering and scratching the back of his neck. He''s really cute when he blushes. "Are you asking her for a date?" my eyes snapped in Sandy''s direction as she voiced out my question. Troy scratched again the back of his neck. "Uhm... I guess?" "You guess? You mean you don''t know if it''s a date or not?" "Uhm----" "Sandy, let him talk." I cut what Troy was saying and red at Sandy. She just rolled her eyes. "If that so... I mean, if that''s what you call it, then yes. I am inviting her for a date." Troy said looking at me. "I just thought since I''m still single and you don''t have a boyfriend, uhm... why don''t I invite you for a date. Don''t worry, not tonight. But some other night, if you agree." I was about to say something but Sandy opened her clever mouth again. "Wow! I am starting to like your braveness, Troy. You really asked a girl on a date in front of her friend. Just wow!" she said nodding while grinning. "Ohh, thanks," Troy said proudly. "So, can I have the honor of going out with you, Ms Madielyn Davis?" He acted like a prince asking his princess to dance with him. "Okay, just tell me in advance where you will take me so I can prepare." "Yes!" instead of Troy, Sandy eximed loudly. "Your voice!" me and Troy warned her in unison. We didn''t notice the same pair of eyes watching our conversation intently until we finished our lunch. ************************* Like my everyday routine after lunch and every 4 pm, I would bring Mr Wilsons his coffee. And it''s now his 3rd coffee of the day. I wonder how he can drink too much coffee in a day and take note--- every day. Wouldn''t he be high in caffeine? Yeah.. not in drugs but from coffee. Wouldn''t he be acidic or have an ulcer? My thoughts stopped when I am standing right in front of his door. I knocked 3 times before he answered e in''. I found him standing in front of therge window behind his desk with both hands on his pants pockets. He''s staring at the busy streets down the building. "Mr Wilsons, your coffee, Sir." I put it on top of his table. He watched my every move before walking over to his desk and grabbing his cup of coffee. I averted my eyes when he brought it to his lips to take a sip. When he put it down again, I asked him the same question after giving him his coffee. "Anything else, Sir?" although I know he would just answer me with his the same answer.. ''Nothing more.'' "Do you have a boyfriend, Ms Davis?" my eyes widened in a bit surprised as I gulped. For all the questions he would possibly ask me in this world... really that question? "I-I''m sorry, Sir?" I asked him again, maybe I was just being yed by my own ears. "I said, do you have a boyfriend?" -''So he really asked me that question!''- Actually, I have no idea why he''s suddenly asking me a very personal question which is unrted to my work. But since I don''t see any problem with that, I still responded politely. "No, Sir. I don''t have a boyfriend." I answered although my voiceced with confusion. "Are you dating with someone now?" "I''m sorry again, Sir?" ..where is this question going?''- He sighed loudly. I can see that he''s tensed and annoyed. Well, it''s not my fault. I was just shocked, you know. "Do I really have to repeat myself, every time I ask you, Ms Davis?" now he''s annoyed. "I''m sorry Sir, but I was just shocked by your questions. And I was taken aback because I don''t expect you to ask me these questions." I reasoned out in all honesty. "Is it difficult to answer that? It''s just a yes or a no!" he snapped ignoring what I said. "Are you dating someone right now, Ms Davis?" he looked at me intently. "No, Sir. But I am about to -------" "Good." he cut me off but I can''t help raising an eyebrow. ''-Good?''- "What?" I voiced out confused. "Because I have a deal to offer you, Ms Davis. My driver will pick you up by 7:00 pm tonight. Be ready by then." "Sir?" "You''re dismissed, Ms Davis," he saidpletely ignoring me by dialling on his phone But of course, being a boss myself, I insist on asking him. "Excuse me Sir, but may I ask the deal you are talking about?" His head immediately snapped at me. "Ms Davis, it''s not work-rted, so I won''t discuss it with you right here in the office." his cold gaze makes me shivers down my spine. "Exactly Mr Wilsons! If it''s not work-rted, then why do you have to offer me your deal? And why did you have to ask me about having a boyfriend or if I am dating? Does your offer have anything to do with it?" "Ms Davis, don''t push me on telling you right now, because it won''t happen! You''re dismissed!" -''that''s it?''- Hepletely ignored me by turning around his swivel chair after getting his phone. And now the back of his chair is the one facing me... -''Wow! What a rude attitude! What if I tell you, I won''t go and listen to what you say?''- I didn''t bother to ask him again and to say goodbye. I just walked out the door and headed to my desk. "He really doesn''t know how to talk in a nice way! Oh, God! I''m going to have wrinkles because of you, Gabriel Wilsons!" I groaned as soon as my butt touches the soft cushion of my chair. ****************************** At 5:00 o''clock, I peeked into his office again. Even though I''ll get the same answer, but as an act of professionalism, I knocked on his door. And after he says e in'', I just stand on the door frame saying goodbye to him. "Okay, be ready at 7:00 pm," he said not even giving me a nce. I just nodded and didn''t care if he sees me or not. At 6:30 pm, I finished taking a bath and drying my hair with the blower. "What am I supposed to wear? He didn''t even mention where he will take me. My God!" I pulled my hair and sighed in frustration. I took my mascara and applied it to myshes. And since it''s not a date, I just add eyeliner and nude lipstick. "That''s it! This would be fine. I don''t need to put more makeup. He''s my boss and this is not a date." I told myself in front of the mirror. For my dress, I simply wear my simplest sleeveless---navy blue floral dress that ended just mid-thigh. I''ve added some curls on my hair to make it more bouncy, and that''s okay. Two-inch ck sandals for my feet. I don''t want him to think that I really put an effort to this ''Set up", although I did a little... just a little. At exactly 7:00 pm, I heard a knock on the front door. I went down the stairs to open it but found Jaime (my tmate) talking to someone at the door. "Here she is," she said looking at me, smiling. I walked towards them. "Good evening, Ms Davis. I''m Jhon and I am Mr Wilsons driver. I am here to pick you up." "Oh, okay." I smiled at him and turned to Jaime but she has an arched eyebrow. I winked at her and exited the door, following John to the car. He opened the passenger seat door for me. "Thank you, Jhon," I said before he closed the door. "Your wee, Ms Davis." he closed it before I could speak again. When he''s already sitting in the driver''s seat, I called him again. "Jhon?" "Yes, ma''am?" he looked at me, waiting for my next statement. "Just call me Madi, please. Calling me Ms Davis makes me feel old. I''m only 26." I smiled to ease his tension. "Okay Madi, if that''s what you want." "Thanks." I smiled at him and he started the engine. I didn''t bother asking him where we''re going. I''m just waiting to get to our destination. After 20 to 25 minutes of sightseeing in the streets, we''re passing, the frown on my forehead deepening as I noticed that the road looked familiar to me. And I closed my eyes tightly when we stop and he parked at the parking lot in front of the very - very familiar fine dining restaurant. "Ms Davis--- I mean Madi, we''re here. Mr Wilsons is waiting for you inside." John informed me. "Where exactly are we?" I asked without opening my eyes. "At the restaurant where Mr Wilsons told me to take you." I took a deep breath. "What is the name of the restaurant?" I asked him again still in closed eyes, silently praying not the same restaurant I was thinking of. "Maiden restaurant." "Oh, shit!" I muttered under my breath. Maiden in short for Madielyn and it''s my Dad''s nickname to me when I was young. It''s the first restaurant I''ve built out of three. "Is there a problem, Madi?" he asked, sounding worried. N?velDrama.Org ? 2024. I opened my eyes, took a deep breath and smiled at him. "No, Jhon. I''m okay. Thank you for picking me up." "My pleasure." he was about to take off his seatbelt but I stopped him. "It''s okay, Jhon. Let me." I smiled again before opening the door and stepped out. His eyes held a silent protest but I just waved at him before walking towards the entrance of the restaurant. But of course, not before calling Noelle. I shook my head at the scenario I am imagining in my head after this. I told her to talk to all the staff not to greet me when they see me inside, which I know a bit impossible. I don''t know how she will manage to do that, but I''ve sent her a message again that I will exin everything once I have time. "Good evening ma''am----- Ms Madi?" the security guard at the entrance greeted me with wide eyes. I ced my index finger to my lips to show him to be quite. I think he got it and he smiled before nodding. But the moment I entered... "Good evening------Ms.Madi?" Susan, one of our waitresses held the same expression with the guard. "You''re so beautiful Ms Madi," she said in excitement. She has the reservation book in her hands. "Good evening, Susan. Ahm.. is there a name of Gabriel Wilsons on your lists tonight?" I asked smiling and her eyes light up more. "Let me check it, ma''am." she scanned the lists. "Oh, yes ma''am. Do you want me to show you where the table is?" And my eyes went wide. "Oh no, it''s okay, just tell me where it is. Uhm, by the way, is he already here?" "Yes, ma''am, he''s already here. He''s in the left-wing, third table before the corner." "Okay, thank you." "Are you sure ma''am, you don''t want me to show you the table?" "No, it''s okay. There is no need to do that. Thank you, Susan." I said smiling. "You''re wee, Ms Madi." she smiled back at me. "Uhm... wait, Susan. Please go to Ms Noelle after this, she has some instructions for all of you. You should go now, just left the reservation book to the guard for a while." "Yes ma''am." she nodded without asking back. After that, I went to Mr Wilsons'' table. And I found him on his phone frowning and talking to someone on the other line. I just wonder if it''s the same person he''s talking to on the phone a few days ago... An investigator as I remembered. -''Ohh, tsk..tsk..tsk.. poor someone whoever you are, I pity you for getting hired by him. Until now, he can''t get over with his ex-girlfriend that he needs to hire an investigator to monitor her''- And then, there''s the sudden ''pinch'' in my heart again. ***************************************** Chapter 5: My girlfriend, My fianc茅e Chapter 5: My girlfriend, My fianc¨¦e Madi''s POV: "Mr Wilsons. Good evening, Sir." I greeted him with a smile when I stopped in front of his table. He looked at me a bit surprised and studied me from head to toe. And my traitor heart started pounding fastly inside my ribcage. "Madi," he said almost in a whisper. I gulped as my eyes widened in a bit surprised. Did he just call me ''Madi''? Since I started working in thepany, this is the first time he has called me by my name and not by myst name. "Sir," I said after my brain recognized it to be true. "Gabriel." my eyes widened again not just because of the way he wanted me to call him but the way he pronounced his name... manly. -''Jesus! His voice! So cold and sexy.... wait---- sexy?''- "Sit down." I heard him said and I gulped. "Mr Wilsons---" "Gabriel. Just call me Gabriel, Madi. And sit down first, I don''t want you standing while I speak." "Yeah," I murmured slowly. -''haist, not even a gentleman! He didn''t even pull the chair for me! Great!''- "Why do you want me to call you by your name, Mr Wilsons?" I asked as soon as I seated. "We''re not in the office Madi, You can call me Gabriel." -''Ohh.. cut the professionalism and the formalities, I see.''- "You have a point Sir---- I mean, Gabriel." Wow, I love how perfectly it sounds when I mentioned it. I looked at him and he''s staring at me, but I didn''t look away. "Let''s order first." He''s the one who looked away first. He didn''t have to call the waiter''s attention, because once we touched the menu, one of our waiters came to our table. I silently prayed that this one was already briefed by Noelle. "Good evening Sir, good evening----ma''am?" It''s Tony, our head waiter. I smiled at him as his eyes wanted to say something. My eyes silently giving him a signal not to mention my name and I breathe a sigh of relief when he continued his spell. "My name is Tony and I am your waiter for tonight... h...h...h..." I looked back at my menu. He asked what our orders would be and he wrote it down on his customer''s order slip. "Anything else, Sir... Ma''am?" Mr Wilsons nced at me, waiting for my answer, but I just shook my head. What am I supposed to order here that my tongue hasn''t tasted yet? And of course, most of them came from my own recipe style. "How about desserts, Sir... Ma''am?" Tony asked again but looking at me with amusement dancing in his eyes. I smiled at him and was about to speak when the man in front of my seat beat me with an arrogantment. "No, we''re not going to order desserts. Just go get our food and stop flirting with my girlfriend if you want your eyes still part of your head or your head to be still connected to your body!" My mouth fell open by his sudden outburst. And wait''-- Me-- girlfriend? What the fuck! Since when? "I''m sorry, Sir." Tony''s frightened face added to my shocked state. He immediately disappeared at our sight. And Mr Wilsons acts as if nothing happened after that. "Mr Wilsons--- Gabriel, what was that?" He red at me when I mentioned hisst name again, but it didn''tst when I change it to Gabriel. I don''t know which one should I react first, the one he introduced me as his girlfriend or that he arrogantly snapped at my employee? Because that was the first rule I created since my business operated-- ''Treat every employee fairly''--. "He''s flirting with you and you seemed so oblivious to that!" Ohh.. what am I supposed to say? He''s not really flirting with me... and because this is the first time they''ve seen me sitting in my restaurant with a freaking guy, they were surprised. "That''s not what I mean! What I was asking is why did you introduce me as your girlfriend? And what is it to you if someone''s flirting with me, you''re not my boyfriend!" I huffed and I crossed my arms over my chest. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. He didn''t say anything, he''s just looking at me as if studying me or something. "That''s included in a deal that I am about to offer you." My eyes snapped at him in a sh. "What?" my voice was a bit loud, so I repeated it but in a lower tone. "What? What are you talking about? Can we discuss that deal now?" my curiosity strikes from within. "No. Not until we finished eating." "But...." I was cut off by the smiling Noelle who''s pushing the food cart. She actually delivered our food? -''Oh my goodness! Really, Noelle?''- I bit my tongue when I saw her obviously checking Mr Wilsons'' face and body. She ced our food in front of us while smiling like an idiot at the Greek God sitting across my seat. "Do you need anything else, Sir? My name is Noelle, just call me anytime if you need anything." she batted her eyshes. But to my surprise, Mr Wilsons held my hand resting on top of the table and Noelle''s eyes followed his gesture. "Don''t worry Ms Noelle, I won''t bother to call you. We don''t need anything. Everything''s already here. And can''t you see I am with my fianc¨¦e, so stop flirting with me!" Noelle and I opened our eyes wide in shock. My hand unconsciously tightened its grip on his hand when I heard what he said... not with the flirting thing, but with the word ''fianc¨¦e''. What is wrong with this man? Earlier he introduced me as his girlfriend and suddenly now I''ve be his fianc¨¦e? What would be next... I''ll be his wife? "F-Fianc¨¦e?" Noelle''s voiceced with surprise as she repeated the word in her mouth. "Yes, fianc¨¦e." Mr Wilsons said not looking at her but at me. "I see," Noelle said nodding. I looked at her and she has a ''you need to exin this to me'' look in her eyes. "I''m sorry, Sir. I didn''t know she''s your fianc¨¦e." I gulped as she eyed me. I know what will happen next. -''Argh! Mr Wilsons!''- When Noelle disappeared from our sight, I didn''t waste any minute. "Wow, Gabriel! Earlier I was just your girlfriend and all of a sudden I''ve be your fianc¨¦e? What would you say next, that I am your wife?" I asked in disbelief. "Let''s not talk about this, until we finished. Now, eat," he answered not even bother if I threw the knife at him. "But this is-------" "Madi!" I was cut off by his dominant alpha voice. "Just eat first, we will discuss itter." ''-Fine!''- I didn''t open my mouth again. I focused on the food in front of me. And God! I didn''t know I was that hungry. My stomach growled at the sight of the food, and let me tell you... I think I can eat a whole cow. I didn''t even spare him a nce, I just savored the heavenly taste of the food. I know he''s staring at me, my every bite and my every chew, but I don''t care--- I''m hungry. Besides, I was just following his order ''eat first''. Although it''s so creepy having an audience while eating, then so be it. After finishing my food, my urinary dder wanted to ask permission, she wanted to see her friend-- the bathroom--. "Can I just go to the restroom before we start discussing your deal?" that''s when I looked at him again. He just nodded and sipped his wine, but didn''t utter any word. -''Madi, expect the obvious.''- Walking down the hall to the customer''s restroom. Noelle suddenly pulled me and dragged me to the back office of the restaurant. "Hey, why did you do that? I''m going to the restroom." I red at her but she just crossed her hands over her chest and red back at me. "Huh!" she snorted. "Since when have you been using the customer''s restroom?" she asked raising her eyebrow. "Just now, because right now I am just a customer and not the owner," I exined, rolling my eyes. "Oh, For goodness sake, Madi! What happened there? Tony told me he was scolded by your date. He''s been used of flirting with you, but the truth is, he''s just acknowledging you. Poor Tony. And you know what, I offered to bring your food to your table just to see what he''s talking about only to what? To even get a snarl from your so-called fianc¨¦? My God, Madi! Earlier that man had told Tony he was your boyfriend, but when I approached you two, you became his fianc¨¦e? What was that Madi? I need an exnation!" I lost count of how many times I sighed while she was rambling her thoughts. "Noelle, listen. I will exin to you everything, but not now. Honestly, I was also shocked by the way he introduced me. He just asked me to be here because he said he has a deal to offer me. But I didn''t know he booked a reservation here." "Wait, a deal to offer you? First, he introduced you as his girlfriend, then next was his fianc¨¦e. Oh my God!" she eximed, her eyes wide open. "I think I know what his offer will be." "What?" "To be his wife!" I chuckled nervously at her statement. "That''s not gonna happen. Why would he offer me to be his wife? We can''t consider ourselves friends." "So, who exactly was he to you?" "He''s my boss." "What? Your boss?" she gasped. "You mean the CEO of Wilsons?" "Yes, that''s him." "Oh, my freaking goodness! You had a hot and sexy boss, Madi!" And not a second, I was confused by her sudden action. She bent down, looking for something on the floor. "What are you doing?" "Wait! I''m looking for something." "And what are you looking for there?" I asked, also bending over to help her look for that ''something''. "My panty." I immediately stopped in my tracks. "What?" I asked again, not sure if I heard it correctly or if it just sounds like. "Yes. You heard it, my panty. I think I lost and dropped it somewhere when I saw your hot and yummy boss!" I punched her in the arm and I startedughing. She alsoughed with me. "You''re silly!" I said in the middle of myugh. "What? It''s true,e on. Help me find my panty." "Panty your ass!" weughed a minute before I decided to go to the restroom. But this time, to our private room in the back office. "You''ll still share with me, including your boss'' offer." she yfully warned me. "Okay fine," I said before leaving the office and returning to our table. ******************************** Chapter 6: The offer Chapter 6: The offer ******************************** "I''m sorry, did it take so long?" I asked him as soon as I was seated back on my chair. "No." He said while sipping his ss of water. He really can''t form a simple sentence to answer, can he? "So, what''s with the deal you''re going to offer me?" Honestly, I was freaking nervous inside. I wanted to me Noelle for imnting some thoughts about his deal in my head. "Madi, I want you to listen to me carefully. Until I''m done talking, I don''t want you to interrupt me, is that clear?" -''Whoa! Really? We cut the formalities but you''re still ordering me.''- I mentally rolled my eyes as I straightened my seat. "Okay." "I want you to be my wife," he said straight to the point and I almost choke the air in my throat. -''What the---am I still hearing Noelle''s words?''- "I - I''m so.. I''m sorry?" this time I brought the ss of water to my mouth because it suddenly went dry. I gulped three times. N?velDrama.Org ? 2024. "Be my wife." Thank God, I''ve already swallowed the water. If not, I am sure I spit it all to his face. I need to inhale more air as his words cut my air passage. "What are you talking about?" I asked when my breathing rxed. "Are you proposing to me right now? Wow, so where is the ring? And why are you not on your knees?" I tried to throw a joke to ease my nervousness, but it was just me whoughed at my own joke. His face was masked with pure coldness and seriousness. And I gulped again. "Listen, I''m not offering you to be my wife forever. What I am offering you is to pretend to be my loving wife for a certain someone and a certain period of time." I raised my eyebrow as my eyes followed his hand when he clutched his phone. I''m not sure if that certain someone is the same as what Sandy told me... the one I saw on his phone. "Alright....?" I urged him to continue. "I want this certain someone to make jealous and regret what she did." I saw how he clenched his jaws when he mentioned the word ''regret''. "But in the end you also want her to be back in your life." It''s not a question, it''s a statement. I looked directly into his eyes and I didn''t miss the frown that suddenly formed on his forehead. "How did you know that it''s a ''she'' i am talking about and not he?" I don''t know but his question made meughed. Is he actually serious? "I didn''t know Gabriel, you''re also aedian," I said between myughter. "Why, if not a woman, does that mean you want a man to make jealous? And to answer your question, you mentioned the word ''she''... you just didn''t notice." He didn''t say anything but I heard him sigh. "I want to punish her. I want to give her back all the betrayals she''d given me. I want her to suffer the pain until she begs me to stop." His words sent goosebumps all over my body. It''s the first time I''ve seen him with a deadly look on his face. "You want to punish her, I see," I said nodding. "So...who exactly is this certain ''her'' in your life, and what did she do to you why you wanted her to make her jealous and punish her? Was she your ex? Because if she is, that means you haven''t moved on from her yet. And you want revenge." The re he''s now giving me after what I said almost made me shrink in my seat. "Madi," he whispered my name so cold as if it were his warning to me not to ask some questions or to say something, but I''m not convinced with his little story. I want more. "I think it''s none of your business." "Oh, none of my business, yeah. And I''m sorry if I am asking some questions out of curiosity. But you''re offering me a deal, a deal that I don''t know what I''m going to get into. And if you want me to agree, you have to at least give half of the story so that I can have at least an idea." I exined myself staring him directly in the eye. That''s true, I don''t really know what kind of deal he''s offering me. Because if that were true, it would change half of my life. "And the deal you are offering is not that simple. Huh! To be your wife?" "How do I know if you agree the time I have you my story? How can I be sure I can trust you? That you won''t betray me too?" "Wow! Big word--- betray! Then try me. I mean, you''re offering a life-changing deal, so why don''t you add some trust? Even if you''ve been betrayed by someone, it doesn''t mean the next person you meet would also betray you. If you''ve lost trust or faith in that someone, that''s no reason to judge everyone or anyone whoes into your life. Also, how could I trust you if you yourself don''t trust the one you want to agree with what you are offering?" He looked at me intently and I did the same. We fell into a staringpetition. "And by the way, what would I get in the end if I agreed to your deal to be your fake wife?" "You talk like a businesswoman, Madi." I was taken aback by his words, but I immediately masked it. "That I am, Gabriel." his eyes turned a bit darker. "I am working in a businesspany, so I consider myself as a businesswoman. He smirked. -''Shit! Even it''s a smirked, he really looked so hot and handsome. I couldn''t me Noelle if she really lost her panty just by looking at him.''- "Here." he pushed a check towards me on top of the table. I scrunched my eyebrows. "What''s this?" I asked picking up the check. "You asked me, what you would get if you agreed with my deal." I read the amount, and my eyes went wide in surprise. ($100,000,000.00) One hundred million dors. A very huge amount. I was shocked and surprised not by the number of zeros on the check, but by the fact that I realized how desperate is the man in front of me with his n. "$100 million?" I asked, shaking my head in disbelief. But he took it differently. "What... is it not enough? I''m going to add-----" "That''s not what I mean, Gabriel!" I interrupted him with a hard tone and a snicker. He was a little surprised but I ignored him. "What I mean is that 100 million dors are really a huge amount. And you''re going to spend that amount just for her?" "Listen, Ms Davis!" I flinched a bit when he pped his palms on the table with a loud thud. "I''m not asking for any of your opinions. I don''t need it! And it''s not for her, it''s for you! I''m going to pay you that money if you agree with this deal!" his voice wasced with anger and seriousness. Take note, back with the formalities... again. But I held my stand. "Exactly my point! You''re going to give me that money to pretend to be your wife, for what? To get even, to get revenge and to get her back! So still, the main point of this n is for her. You''re doing this for her!" I am not into his money, honestly. My mom is rich and so is my dad, but I don''t ask them for anything because I too can have that amount of money in my hand, even if not as fast as this, I can have it through my business. "And why do you need to do that? What will you get after you punish her? And what kind of punishment are you going to give her after your ns? Making her jealous and then what, getting her back into your life---" "I think that questions aren''t really part of your business! You''re getting off your line here, Ms Davis!" He red at me, his face was red as a tomato... not from blush but from anger. And if ever the look could kill, you will find me six feet under the ground "Ohh, is that so?" I paused and got to my feet. "Then, take your deal with yours, Mr Wilsons. I''m sorry, but I can''t ept it. As you said, we''re not in the office so that means, you can''t order and boss me around here. And I suggest you take your check back...." I pushed it back towards him. "... Also, take your deal with yours or offer it to someone who will listen just to the side of your story. Goodnight, Mr Wilsons. Thanks for the invitation and also for the food." Rising to my feet, I smiled at him and took a deep breath before walking away from him. The look on his eyes after my little speech sent shivers down my spine. I know it''s a bit rude to walk out, especially that he''s my boss. But the same words came from him.. we''re not in the office... so, we can cut the formalities. It means, he''s not my boss at the moment. Actually, since I own the restaurant, I am the boss in my own ce. ******************************** Chapter 7: Hes not in the good mood Chapter 7: He''s not in the good mood Gabriel''s POV: "What the---- that stubborn woman! Who does she think she is?" I formed my fists as I clenched my jaws when she walked out. I just put some cash on top of the table before getting up and heading for the exit. Some customers were watching our little act earlier, but I just ignored them. I know for sure they were thinking that we just had a little ''lover''s quarrel'' and my girlfriend walked out. I admit, the amount I offered her was really a huge amount of money, but I was shocked when she turned down my offer and the money. I mean, who would refuse such arge amount at this time? I''ve known her for just quiet for two months, and I can tell that she and my secretary don''t belong in my fan''s club in the office. Well... I think she''s perfect for the role. She''s beautiful and smart. She''s not into my looks, unlike those girls who can be easily distracted by my stern look. But for her... she has the nerve to raise an eyebrow at me. She didn''t notice it every time I caught her doing it. I can see her through myshes when she thought I wasn''t looking. And she even rolled her eyes at times, but I was just ignoring her because, for the first time in my existence as the CEO of WEC, she was the first one as my PA that didn''t disy her body and cleavage in front of me. She doesn''t even show a flirtatious smile or act whenever she''s around me. Staying neutral, smiling often and even acts professionally as if I didn''t really have an effect on her. And after tonight, I''m even more convinced she''s the perfect candidate for my act. She''s not just smart, she also has a strong personality and has a ''brain'' in her mouth. I won''t let her go even if I have to double the prize just to convince her, I won''t hesitate to do so... And a mischievous smile formed on my lips. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Madi''s POV: At the office, 20 minutes before our official time in, I was surprised to see Sandy already sitting in her office. It''s the first time she came earlier than me. "Is this what we called ''miracle''? I asked her peeking on the door frame. When she sees me, she let out a loud tired sigh. "Why were you so early?" I am about to sit down on the chair in front of her desk but she immediately stopped me. "No! Go to your office." My eyebrows crunched a bit. "What? Why? It''s only 7:40 and it''s still early. What''s happening with you?"At the office, 20 minutes before our official time in, I was surprised to see Sandy already sitting in her office. It''s the first time she came earlier than me. "Is this what we called ''miracle''? I asked her peeking on the door frame. When she sees me, she let out a loud and tired sigh. "No, Madi! It''s not me, but the boss." "What do you mean it''s the boss?" "He''s already here at exactly 7:00 am. And he''s not in a good mood." "Ohh.. really? Well, I don''t remember the time he walked into the office in a good mood. So what''s new about it?" I said giggling as I shook my head. "No, Madi. I''m serious, I''m telling you." I sighed. "Fine. So, why did hee so early?" "I don''t know. And you know what, he called me early in the morning to tell me to go to the office before 7:00 o''clock." My eyes darted in confusion. "What? Are you serious?" "Yes. He called me so early. He freaking called me at 5:00 am while my boyfriend and I were in the middle of our intimate something! Forgodsake, Madi!" I have to cover my mouth not to burst out myughter. "And I haven''t even reached my first orgasm----" "Okay fine! That''s enough! I -I got it, you don''t have to borate all the details between you and your boyfriend!" I cut her off before she can continue borating on the thing they did this morning. Gross! "You''re such a virgin!" she huffed. "Anyway, as I was saying... this is the first time, Madi, he wanted me toe to work early to make his coffee and his schedules." "W-Wait.. but that''s my job." my eyebrows furrowed again. "I don''t know what happened to him. That''s why I''m waiting for you to exin all this to me. You are his PA and you were the one he should have called first this morning and not me. And his coffee---- I had to do it twice to get the taste he wanted. He even ordered me to make his schedules for today. Argh! I swear Madi, I''m gonna lose my mind if this continues until tomorrow!" "He made you do the job that was for me. His coffee and his schedules?" "My God, Madi! What did I do to him to punish me?" -''Or the right question is that what did I do for him to let you do my job?''- "What else did he order you... I mean, more of my job?" "Well, aside from answering some phone calls, faxing these documents..." she pointed to the thick folders with a lot of papers inside. "...well, replying to the emails that keep popping up myputer screen." she sighed again. "Okay, let me take this.," I said getting the 3 folders on top of her desk. "No! He strictly ordered me not to give this to you and to let you do it." "What?" my voice rose a little. I don''t know if I should be happy because he lets me rest or to be insulted because he indirectly told me not to work in thispany anymore. "So, what am I suppose to do---- counting all my hair one by one until the afternoon?" N?velDrama.Org ? 2024. She chuckled at my crazy idea. "I bet he wanted you to do that because he didn''t even leave you a single job." Well... I need to know what is the reason behind these changes. Is it rted to what happenedst Friday? "Let me take these and then I''ll talk to him." "No, Madi. Why don''t you talk to him first to make sure I won''t lose my job after this." "No, Sandy. This is not stated in the contract we signed before starting our work here. Don''t worry, I''ll handle this. I''ll just talk to himter and don''t bother about making his coffee, I''ll do it too." "Are you sure, Madi?" I can see through her eyes that she''s afraid and hesitant. "Yes. And anyway, don''t worry if you lose your job. There''s still waiting for you outside." I said with a wink. I took the 3 folders including some documents to check and send to the new investors of thepany. I returned to my office and started to arrange all the documents per category. If he wants a game, well I can y with it too. **************************************** Chapter 8: Unprofessional Chapter 8: Unprofessional Madi''s POV: It''s 10:30 on my wristwatch when the inte buzzed in Sandy''s line. She immediately rushed to my office to tell me that Mr.Grumpy, I mean Mr Wilsons needs another cup of coffee and the documents he needed for his next meeting. "Okay, I''ll do it," I said getting up. "But Madi----" "Sandy, rx, I also want to talk to him. I want to clear this thing. He should have told me directly or at least called me. I am his PA and not you. And this job is supposed to be mine. If he doesn''t want me any longer as his PA, then so be it. I''ll go." She just sighed and I walked passed at her. I made his coffee first before getting the documents he needs. I took a deep breath before knocking on his door. I have already practised my speech. When I heard his voice from inside, I pushed the door and walked towards him. He''s not looking at me so I can able to watch his facial expression. His eyes were focussed on theputer screen. "Good morning Mr Wilsons, coffee Sir." I just greet him when I am exactly in front of his desk. He immediately looked up when he heard my voice. Maybe he wasn''t expecting me to bring his coffee. "And the documents you need for your next meeting," I informed him as I put the folder in front of him, wearing my professional smile. "Where is Ms Agur?" he asked and he looked back at the monitor. "I clearly instructed her to do that." I really wanted to roll my eyes, but all I did was smile. "Ms Agur is currently checking the meeting room, Sir, so I took all the documents and made your coffee as part of my duty as your P.A. And anyway, Sir, thank you for allowing Ms Agur to help my work, I appreciate it. But I think she has other works to do, so I''d love to take it back. Thank you, Sir." I showed him my ''fake'' smile of appreciation. Note my sarcasm. I know he really did it on purpose. He looked at me again and I smiled as if I have no idea what he was doing. "Take that coffee off in front of me. I won''t drink that." -''What the''- This time I raised my eyebrow but still asked him calmly. "But Sir, you said you want coffee, so I made you one." "I said take that coffee and throw it away. I won''t drink It and I didn''t ask you to make me one. I don''t need it." Maybe if I were Sandy, I''m sure. I am now shaking with fear and nervousness. But no... since I am Madi, I have a better idea. "Oh, that''s a kind of waste. There are a lot of people who can''t drink coffee or even buy their own food because of poverty." I said calmly, shrugging my shoulders. "Anyway, since you don''t want to drink this I think I will have to.....". I stopped on purpose and waited for him to look up and he did... waiting for my next words. I smiled inwardly as I continue. "I think I''ll have to drink this, instead." And I smiled at him. I didn''t miss the spark of amusement in his eyes, but he immediately masked it with his signature cold aura. "Anything else you need, Sir?" "Call Ms Agur and tell her to make a ''new'' cup of coffee." And he really emphasized the word ''new. "Ohh.. but I''ve already made you a coffee. Do you really want another cup or you just don''t want me doing it?" And for the first time when I entered his office, he looked at me... intense and directly. "Ms Davis, you said you will drink it, so it''s now yours. And call Ms Agur to make me another cup. And you will the one to check the meeting room." -''Huh!''- An annoyed smile formed on my lips and I decided to show it to him. "Excuse me again, Mr Wilsons, But I haven''t informed that we''re going to switch our job description. Why are you doing this, Sir?" He stopped what he was typing and smirked at me. And my breath suddenly stuck in my throat because of it. -''Forgodsake, why does he need to be so hot?-'' I gulped as I mentally shook the naughty thoughts in my head. "Is this something rted to what happenedst Friday? Because if it''s true, I think it''s a little unprofessional, Sir." And his smirk instantly vanished from his face as he stared at me coldly and intensely that brought me shivers deep down my spine. "So, are you really the one who''s telling the word ''unprofessional'' Ms Davis? I hope you haven''t forgotten your position as ''only'' my assistant. What happenedst week outside this office was completely off-topic. And bringing it back in is what you can be called ''unprofessional''." he said emphasizing word unprofessional and the word ''just'' for my position. "I clearly understand what ''only'' my position in thispany, Sir. Well, I just don''t understand why you had to order Sandy to do my job? I mean.. I am doing it well and she has her own work to do." "Are you questioning me, Ms Davis?" -''Seriously, is he listening to me?''- my blood''s running up to my head. "I am not questioning you, Mr Wilsons. I am just asking." "Really, Ms Davis? But I think it''s just the same." "No Sir. There is a difference between them." I said standing straight and proud. "Asking is to request information or an answer to a question while questioning is the act of challenging, doubting and interrogation." He stared at me in a challenging look but I didn''t back down. "I''m just asking, Sir," I repeated again. This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org. "Well.. let me tell you this Ms Davis, for once and for all. Let me remind you again whom you are talking to and whatever you may call it, asking or questioning... I have every right to give an order to anyone with or without your permission. Is that clear to you, Ms Davis?" And he arched his eyebrow. He freaking eyebrow. "Of course, Sir. I understand it clearly. And yeah, if that''s what you want, then who am I to disobey your order? Good morning, Sir. I''m going to call Ms Agur." I said in my sweetest ''fake'' smile. I know I can''t win this discussion. I am not in a ce to ask him anything because, for him, he is our arrogant, jerk, and cold boss. And I took the cup of coffee and brought it outside with me. *************************************** Chapter 9: Because of her Chapter 9: Because of her Madi''s POV: I couldn''t help but shake my head as to what Sandy''s reaction would be if I told her what the jerk said. I took a sip of my ''now'' coffee before dialling her number. "Madi?" she asked on the other line. "Hi. Where are you? Are you still in the meeting room?" "Yes. But since it''s all set, I''m going back now. Why?" "Well, our boss wants you ta make him coffee again." I rolled my eyes with the bullshit idea. "What? I thought you already gave him?" "Yeah, but you know what he said.. ''I won''t drink it and I don''t need it. Call Ms Agur to make me a new cup." I mimicked what the ''boss'' said exactly. "What the fuck, Madi? What''s happening to him? Did you ask him about this?" I can hear the annoyance in her voice. "Yes. And he said he doesn''t need my permission as he is the CEO and that I should know my ce as his PA. He also wanted me to check the meeting room instead of you." I can feel my blood rushing up to my head. Well, as they say, there is the right time for everyone.. maybe this is his time and I can''t wait to have mine. "My goodness!" I bet she pped her forehead. "I''m sorry, Sandy." I apologized because I know this is really something rted to what happenedst Friday. "No. It''s not your fault. He''s just an asshole!" I chuckled as I sip my coffee. "Okay, hurry up before the lion inside gets grumpier and eats you." "Haha. Funny. I hate you for this." sheined and Iughed again. After ending the call, I made a decision to tell Sandy what happened between me and Mr Wilsonsst week. I think she needs to know about this because she''s the one suffering the consequences for me. Whether he denied it or not, I know it''s the possible reason why he suddenly gave my job to Sandy. Honestly, I don''t understand him. He was the one who told me that it''s unprofessional to bring that matter inside the office. But hello... even though he didn''t say anything about it, the way he ordered Sandy to do my job clearly shows that this is rted to it. What... he can''t even ept that I rejected his deal? Isn''t it a childish act? * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Before our lunch break, since I have no more work to do, I cornered Sandy in her office. I need to tell her right away as I have something nned for it. "Wow, for the first time you''re the one to call me for lunch." she raised her eyebrow and I smiled. "Yeah, there''s always a first time for everything. And because I don''t have much work to do, so I decided to call you." my smile widened when her eyebrow dropped and her gaze turned into a re. "Uhuh... you don''t have much work to do," she repeated, nodding. "You''re enjoying this, don''t you?" I know she was referring to the added work that Mr Wilsons gave her. "Of course. Who wouldn''t?" I teased her more. "I hate you!" she huffed and Iughed at her. "Actually, I have something to tell you." "About what?" "This is something about me and I need you to listen to me." "Whoah, wait! Don''t tell me you have cancer? Brain cancer?Blood cancer? Breast cancer? Cervix------ ouch!" I pped her forehead. "Forgodsake, Sandy! What are you thinking? You want me to die still a virgin?" I narrowed my eyes on her as sheughed. "I''m serious!" "Okay fine. I was just trying to joke, okay?" "Haha. Wow... nice try." She rolled her eyes. "So, what is it about?" I sighed and settled into the chair in front of her desk. "I think I know the reason why he''s trying to switch our jobs and why he''s as grumpy as you said." "Really? And that is?" "I think it''s because of what happened between usst Friday." and her eyes widened in surprise. "Oh my God, no! That''s not what I mean." I instantly corrected her thoughts. "But you said, there''s something happened between you two-----" "Yes, but it''s not the way you think. My God, Sandy, can you at least think of anything that has nothing to do with sex?" I red at her. "Excuse me, but can you me me? I only rely on your words." "You''re crazy! Haist! What I''m trying to say is that we talked. We talkedst week." "What? What kind of talk and what did you talk about?" Now I got her full attention. "Okay, listen. Last Friday, he asked me---no, he ordered me to talk to him. It''s something that has nothing to do with my job, so he sent his driver to pick me up and do you know where did we go?" "Where?" her eyes sparkled with interest. "To my restaurant. To my first restaurant." "What? Seriously?" I nodded. "Oh my! How about your staff? And what about him, did find out the truth?" "Well, about my staff, I immediately called Noelle to brief them. All of the employees as much as possible not to greet me or acknowledge me inside. And about him, I think he didn''t find out and he''s still unaware of it." "Uhuh.. okay. So, how about ''the talk'' what did you talk about?" I sighed as I looked at her. "He asked me to marry him." "What?" N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "Shhh! Lower your voice!" my right hand automatically covered her mouth. That''s exactly what I was expecting. "Wait.. wait!" she removed my hand from her mouth. "Did I hear you right? Can you uhm... repeat it again? Sometimes, my eardrums got some problems, you know." she waved her hands in the air. I sighed again and put back my hands in myp. "I said, he asked me to marry him." "Holy shit!" her eyes blinked continuously and her mouth hung open. "What the---fuck! Are you sure you''re not kidding?" "Oh my God! Do you think I can joke around regarding this matter?" "Oh fuck, Madi! How did it happen? You''re not even in a rtionship...." she paused and her eyes widened again. "What?" I asked without having the slightest clue. "Not unless you two have a secret rtionship and you... you screwed your boss!" she said looking horrified. And my face turned sour as I threw her the mini-elephant pencil eraser which was on top of her desk. "My goodness, Sandy Agur! Do you think I can do that? And how could I do it if we both knew he hadn''t gotten over his past yet?" "So, why did he ask you to marry him if you''re not in a rtionship? What would that be--- a fake marriage? A marriage of convenience?" "Exactly," I answered, nodding. "I still don''t get it." "Do you remember thest time you told me about his past?" "Uhm... which one? His past personality, the one in which he epted his CEO position, loving his fianc¨¦e who got away from him or that the woman he loved is now back again in town?" My eyebrows knitted in herst line. "What?" "Which one?" "Wait. You didn''t tell me about thest part." "Ohh.. that his ex-fianc¨¦e is now back in town?" "Yes. Where did you get that news and why didn''t you tell me?" "I thought I already told you?" "No. Actually, you''ve already mentioned everything except that one." "Oh.. okay. Well, as I heard, the woman who left him before, I mean his ex-fiancee is now wondering in the City again." "What?" I don''t understand why the mention of his ex-fianc¨¦e or that he already loved a woman before, gives me something heavy inside. "Yes, but with another man." -''Oh my!''- Now I know why he''s so desperate and eager with his stupid deal. "So now tell me. Why did he ask you to marry him?" "Because of her." "Because of her--- you mean, he asked you to marry him because of her? Because of his ex-fianc¨¦e?" "Yes." I nodded, feeling disappointed. "But why? You know this is getting ridiculous! Why don''t we go to the cafeteria now and for lunch, while you''re sharing this ridiculous thing with me." She stood up and cleaned her desk. "Okay. I can also feel my intestines dancing inside." We both chuckled when we heard both our stomach growled. Chapter 10: He offered me a deal Chapter 10: He offered me a deal Madi''s POV: We chose to sit in the far corner of the cafeteria. For sure, Troy will be looking for us, but we need these girlish moments for the two of us. "Okay, so let''s get back to the topic. Where were we again?" Sandy asked immediately once we were seated? "Because of his ex-fiancee." "Okay?" she urged me to continue as she started eating hersagna. "He offered me a deal. He wanted me to be his wife for I don''t know how long and he never mentioned. He''s willing to give me $100MM just to agree with his n-----" I stopped talking when she coughed the food from her mouth. "I really hate you! You always do that. If it''s not a drink, your food!" Iined with a deep frown. "I''m sorry. I was just shocked." she defended, wiping her mouth. "How much it again----- $100MM?" she gulped as she couldn''t believe how huge the amount was. I just nodded. "My God! That''s a huge amount of money, Madi. I can quit working and put my own business!" she eximed, bringing the ss of water in her mouth. I didn''t say anything. "Oh, yeah. I forgot you already have one." she rolled her eyes. "Yup but even if I don''t have it, I still won''t ept his money. Because that only shows how big his desperation to get revenge on his ex." "Whoah! Revenge? What do you mean... he asked you to marry him just to get revenge on her?" "Yes. What a stupid idea right?" "B-But why? What for?" "To show her that he had already moved on." I shook my head as the annoyance instantly crept inside me. But the truth is that he still couldn''t move on... I can see it on how he''s living his life right now. Cold, lifeless. And I''m not even sure if he still knows how to smile." She looked at me also shaking her head. "So, I guess you turned down his offer?" "Yes." "Oh my!" she pped her forehead. I know she got what I was trying to exin, especially with the situation we have right now. "How did you turn down his offer?" she asked again after a while. "I just said no. I won''t ept your deal and your offer." I shrugged. "And how did he ept it?" "As usual, he didn''t take it easy. He didn''t want to tell me at least half of the story. You know, if he wanted me to agree and be his wife, I should know at least half of it. How would I suppose to act without having a clue? Besides, he wanted revenge, Sandy. He said he wanted to punish her for leaving him and for betraying him. In short, he wanted her to suffer more than the things he went through when she left." I felt heaviness inside me and my heart wanted to scream just the thought of him, doing this stupid idea. She has stopped eating, she''s just looking at me and with a slight smile. "I don''t know what to say, Madi, I mean... revenge? Seriously? But why... why does he need to do such a thing like that?" I can say she''s also affected, but I think not as much affected as I am. "That''s also my question, but honestly, I don''t believe him that he just wanted revenge. I can still see jealousy in his eyes whenever he talks about her. His face shows different expression including his action, but his eyes... they''re desperation, love and hurt. He still wanted to get her back." I lost my appetite after stating those words. I sighed as I yed the food on my te. "Why did you seem to feel his pain too? Do you have feelings for him?" My eyes instantly looked at her and found her studying my expression. "What? No! Of course not!" I said in a defensive tone and straightened my body. "I''m just as confused as you are, you know." "Okay, if you say so." she just shrugged. "It''s just that.. I-I can''t understand him... I mean, why can''t he just move on and forget about her? Why can''t he just let her go?" I asked, scratching my eyebrow. "Have you asked him about it?" "No. I just asked him why he needs to spend a that huge amount of money on her, but he got mad, what more if I asked him why he can''t let his damn ex?" Sheughed at myst sentence. "What was his reaction when you asked him about the money?" "Well.. he mmed his hands on the table and he red at me. He said it''s not for her but for me. He''ll give me that money as payment if I agree with what he has nned, but of course, I refused. I can also have that amount on my own, but help him take revenge? That''s a big no for me. What will he get in the end?" "So, what did you do after that? How did you end your conversation?" "I left him and went out of the restaurant." "Tss! What? You left him?" she asked in disbelief and chuckled for no reason. "Yes," I answered nodding. "Seriously?" "Uhuh, what am I supposed to do--- still sitting there watching him push his millions? Boss me around after he told me we''re not in the office, so I can call him Gabriel as he called me Madi?" "Oh wow! This is getting interesting." she even pped her hands. "Yeah, you said earlier it''s getting ridiculous but now it''s gotten interesting?" I can''t believe she instantly changed her emotions and opinions. "Yes, and now I know why he''s been acting like a jerk-----" "No. He''s not just acting! He''s really a jerk. Period!" I cut her off and she chuckled. "Yes, he''s a jerk and an asshole! And it triggered because you rejected his ego." N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "Triggered? What''s that... disease?" I bit my lip to keep myself fromughing. "Yeah! You caused him to be more jerk! Asshole! Stubborn! And bossy!" "Hey! Excuse me... I didn''t cause him to be like that! He just has a huge ego as big as the Pacific ocean!" I made a disgusted face and sheughed again. "So what are you nning to do now?" "Well.. nothing. Same as before, obey his rules, follow his orders and do my job." "Madi, how are you supposed to do that, if half your workload is now on my desk?" "Easy baby girl." I smiled and she scrunched her forehead. "I already have a n for that. We have to be a team on this. I will continue to do the paperwork, and when he called, you will be the one to deal with him. If he asks you to be with him in all his meetings, then go, I''ll prepare everything you need. Including his schedules, leave it to me, I''ll just give you the copy." "Okay, but make sure I won''t lose my job with this." "You won''t, I promise." And we continued our lunch. If he can y this game, then we can also y with him. Two is better than one. Although he''s our boss, the jerk and proud but handsome and hot boss... well we are also his PA and sexy-tary, I mean secretary... who also have body, beauty and brains. Hmmp! Let us see who will win this stupid game of him. Chapter 11: Noelles idea Chapter 11: Noelle''s idea These past few days have been hectic for us, I mean more on Sandy. She had to make Mr.Wilsons coffee not just once but three times a day. She also had to attend a few meetings with him, because this week, he proved just how a real jerk he was. But do you know what the funny part was? He sometimes called Sandy as Ms Davis unconsciously. But she never even corrected him and we justughed when she shared it with me. I haven''t shown him my face thesest few days. I was just helping Sandy with her doubled number of files. I also didn''t bother saying goodbye every afternoon when I go home like I always do every day. -''Hmph! This is what he wants, I''m just following his wish.''- It''s Friday afternoon and since we have no work tomorrow, I decided to visit Noelle at the restaurant. I already told her what Mr Wilsons and I talked aboutst time. And her reaction wasn''t something I expected. She wants me to ept his deal. "Wow! Thest time I checked, you keep ranting at me when I applied to the WEC and now you want me to ept his offer? What''s happening to your brain?" We''re in the back office and talking again about his life-changing deal. "Nice. You used the word ''brain''. Why don''t you also use the word ''mind'' to make itplete?" I rolled my eyes as I sighed. "You loved challenges, right? So, why don''t you think about it? Why don''t you take his offer? Besides, he''s a good shot, Madi. He''s a freaking billionaire, a hot and sexy billionaire. If that''s just me he offered that fabulous deal, there''s no way the hell I''d turn it down." "Then go to him and ask him to offer you the deal." "Hmph! As if that''s easy!" she huffed. "And what are you saying... that I should also ept his money?" "No! Not his money... but his freaking--- sinful body!" And she ced her hands on her throat down to her chest as if she imagined my boss touching her there. "Tss! Gross!" I said in a disgusted face but she red at me. N?velDrama.Org ? 2024. "Yeah, go on! You can say all those words today Madi, but I''m telling you--- huh! If you''ve tasted what they call ''God''s special recipe'', you''ll not forget that ever!" I onlyughed at her choice of words. "God''s special recipe? What''s that?" She raised her eyebrow as she smirked at me. "God! Such a virgin!" And it''s my turn to re. "You know what, your boss is really up to something." "Of course, what do you call about his ns for revenge on his ex-fiancee?" "Maybe he still in love with her and still can''t ept what that woman did to him." "Yeah, but instead of chasing her again to get back into his life, he came up with this with a stupid idea." "Maybe because after seeing her again, the pain he felt before was heavier that his love for her. I mean, who wouldn''t... if someone you''ve loved and praised all your life betrayed and left you?" I didn''t say anything but my palm reached her forehead. "What''s that for?" she asked confused. "Nothing. I''m just checking if you had a fever. You know, saying all those heartfelt words usually didn''t come out from your nasty mouth." Her mouth hung open, and after a while, she narrowed her eyes on me. She even gave me a fake re. "You really used the word nasty for my mouth?" "Well, yeah," I answered with a shrug. "You and Sandy have the same mouth size, full of nasty words and dirtynguages." I chuckled as her face scrunched with my words. "Excuse me! We have the same sexy and luscious mouth." She pouted. "But, seriously... I agree with you." I sighed, leaning against my seat. "Yeah, maybe that''s why he became as cold and distant as you described him." "You know what, I haven''t even seen him smiled before." "Really?" she asked in disbelief. "Yeah." "Then why don''t you make him?" "Haha! How could I if he didn''t even let me do my job? He gave half my job to Sandy. And since then, I haven''t shown him my face in thest few days!" Sheughed. "I''m telling you, Madi. He''s really into something." "I don''t know. I still can''t believe there''s a person like him. You know, who would do everything for his ex.. even doing such this stupid idea. What for?" "Maybe not out of revenge." "But for what?" "To im her back?" I felt again the now familiar ''sting''. "What if I resign?" I suddenly blurted out without thinking. "What? No!" she said shaking her head. "Why not? I applied for this job. I applied as his Personal Assistant, but what he is doing to me? He made it clear that his deal was not rted to my job... to the work in the office, but look at him! He gave half of my workload to Sandy without even informing me after I turned down his offer! And do you know what he said when I asked him about it? ''Stay in your ce! I am the CEO and you''re just my PA! Argh!" I even mimicked his tone and immediately let out a frustrated sigh as I felt the annoyance creeping me again. "And since he doesn''t want me to do it anymore, then why would I stay?" "Oh no, baby girl. Don''t do that. Don''t you get it?" "Don''t get what?" "Maybe he''s just doing all these things to you to challenge you!" "To challenge me?" "To make you ept his deal." "That''s ridiculous!" "Come on! Think about it." "But by doing so, it didn''t ur to him that I can also file a resignation letter for this." "Uhuh..." she smirked and I looked at her. "What?" I raised an eyebrow. "Trust me, He''s just challenging you." "Then bullshit that stupid challenge of him!" "Yeah... and this is really exciting! Why don''t you ept the challenge.. you loved it right?" she winked at me. "What do you mean?" An evil smile formed on her lips. "I have an idea. A very useful and brilliant idea." Chapter 12: Resignation letter Chapter 12: Resignation letter Madi''s POV: "What is this?" I got up immediately when the jerk himself barged into my office. He threw the folded white sheet on my table. It''s my resignation letter and this is Noelle''s idea. As she saidst time, I should ept the challenge. Well, I listened to her and made my fake resignation letter. She said that I''ll see what his reaction would be against my rejection of his deal. I put it on his desk early this morning, and now I can''t believe my two eyes see him in front of me with a sour face. I refrained from smiling and looked straight at him. "Good morning, Mr Wilsons. It''s my immediate resignation letter." I proudly answered. -''See? You can''t take to eat your words.. hmp!" But his sour face now turned darker. His eyebrows formed a straight line as he narrowed his eyes at me. "I''m not an idiot for not noticing it''s a resignation letter, Ms Davis!" -''Oops! No, You''re not.''- my mind screamed inside. "Why are you resigning?" He mmed both of his palms on my desk. I really wanted to raise an eyebrow but I refrained myself. "Because I thought that was what you wanted me to do." He blew an annoyed breath as his eyes filled with rage. "What are you talking about Ms Davis? Did I tell you to resign? Did I asked you to do it?" R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only -''Now.. you know my name again. Huh! Do I need your permission?''- "Because you don''t want me to do my job anymore. So I thought, you don''t longer need my service and that you just can''t tell me directly. That''s why I filed that resignation notice so I can find another job as soon as possible." I replied calmly. But to my not-so-surprised reaction, he picked up the white sheet again and tore it into two...four...six...eight... and I don''t know how many pieces it was all. I faked my horrified expression as I looked him in the face again. "You''re not going to resign!" His voice boomed in all four corners of my office. I let out a snicker. "But why Sir? I don''t have much work to do because half of it, you passed it to your secretary which wasn''t her job. And I don''t want to get that highpensation without using my hands in fairways. That''s unfair to my coworkers who have shed blood and sweats just to earn like what I have." "Then ept the deal! So you''re no longer thinking of having that sry without being tired. I''ll give a lot of things to do. You can cook for me..." my eyes started to widen as well as my mouth. "...choose the suit I have to wear, clean my stuff, bring my suitcase, polish my shoes-----" "Wow! Wow! Wait! You don''t need a wife for that, Sir! What you need is a maid! A ve--- a personal ve!" At that moment, the horrible look on my face turned real. My goodness! "You want me to ept your deal just to be your maid? Wow! No way!" "Whatever you may want to call it, but you''re not going to resign! No matter how many bunches of resignation letters you put on my desk, I won''t allow you! If you still do, I will get the copy of your signed contract from the HR and make sure that you will pay the charges for abandoning your contract. You only work here for two months and based on the contract, you have to stay employed for a year to compensate all thepany''s expenses for hiring you and paying your taxes." -''huh! wow! Do you think I don''t know that?''- I wanted to shout but I chose not to. "Fine! I won''t resign, but give me back my normal workload." I sighed when he didn''t utter a word, he''s just looking at me. When he walked towards the door, I expected him to go back to his office, but to my surprise.. instead of going out, he closed the door. I immediately approached him to ask why he had closed the door.. but he just took three long strides and instantly found himself in front of me. He grabbed my arm and our noses almost touched. Our breaths mixed and I could smell his minty breath fanning across my face. I''m not a blushing person.. or a blushing girl or whatever you may call it.. but dear God, I can feel my face heated up by our sudden proximity. -''Oh God!''- My stomach churned as my small andrge intestine turned upside down. "Resignation Ms Davis is not the best way to get away from me." he pulled my arm, bringing his mouth near my ear and whispered... "ept my offer. If I have to double or triple the money to convince you more, I will. But let me tell you, I don''t easily take ''no'' for an answer." His warm breath tickles my neck, sending shivers down my spine. I gulped and took all my control not to close my eyes. -''Oh my! What is this feeling?''- I silently asked my inner self when he let go of my arm. I looked at him, his eyes held different emotions and it''s the first time I''ve seen those from him. But as usual, he masked it instantly in not even a second. "Keep that in mind, Ms Davis." With a smirk, he walked back to the door without any looking back. When he''s finally out of my sight, I suddenly felt my knees buckle and I had to sit on the nearest chair before it gives up and I end up falling to the floor. -''Whew!''- I let out a heavy sigh as I put my right hand over my raising heartbeat. So, I got his real reaction. "Argh!" ********************************* Chapter 13: For the first time Chapter 13: For the first time Madi''s POV: The next morning, the inte connecting from the CEO''s office beeped and I couldn''t help but raise an eyebrow. He''s now calling me? "Ms Davis, where are you?" His voice rang from the device. "Huh?" I asked unconsciously. "Where''s my schedule and my coffee?" -''Ohh...''- "Coming Sir." my smile widened as I ran to the pantry. I won. After making his coffee and getting my note pad, I knocked on his door. "Come in." -''Oops! Wee back to me!''- I smiled as I pushed the door. His familiar scent met my nostrils as I walked into his office. So it''s true.. there''s always a first time for everything. Every time I entered his door.. he''s always busy either on the paper works on his hands or his eyes on the monitor, but this time, he''s not doing anything. He''s just leaning on his chair and his hands were crossed over his chest. He watched me walking towards his desk, eyeing my moves as if he wanted to say something but never opened his mouth. He smirked after I ced the coffee in front of him...on his desk. I found it creepy but I ignored his stare. I took a deep breath and smiled at him. "You wanna know now your schedules for today, Mr.Wilsons?" I asked while checking my note pad. "You haven''t greeted me, good morning, Ms Davis." "Ohh!" I mentally pped myself. "I''m sorry, Sir. Good morning." how did I forget to greet him? Well, this is also the first time. "Good morning too, Ms Davis." And my eyes widened with his words. Did he just greet me too? Whoa! And I froze when he picked up his coffee.... smiling. "Fuck!" I cursed unconsciously. He smiled! He still knows how to smile! Thank heavens! "Did you just curse me?" he asked furrowing his eyebrows. "What? D-Did I? I mean...shit!" and my eyes widened again. I said it out loud. "Ohh... I''m sorry Sir, I mean that''s just for myself. I didn''t mean to say it out loud. I''m just confused, you know. Because I''ve found that it''s true, there''s always a first time in everything...Ohh...I''m sorry." When did I start to ramble words? Gosh! This is embarrassing. But he chuckled right after putting the coffee down. I gulped as I watched him clutching his stomach. -''God! what did I do for you to witness his smile andugh? He''s so handsome when he smiles and God--- he''s so sexy when heughed. And he has a dimple on his left cheek, so cute.''- After a few minutes of ughing for I don''t know the reason, he straightened again his seat. "Are you okay, Sir?" I asked unconsciously still looking on his face. "Yes. Why did you ask, Ms Davis?" "A-Are you sure you''re okay? Don''t you have a fever or anything to caused you that way?" "What do you mean?" he asked, still smiling. -''Is he really okay? Is he really smiling at me?''- "Because you smiled. You evenughed. Wow! I''m surprised Sir, you still know how to do it." Upon hearing my words, his smile instantly dropped and he returned to his cold and serious face again as he looked at me. -''Oh shit, Madi! Nice way to ruin the moment!''- I bit my bottom lip. I wanted to p my face. "I''m sorry," I muttered slowly. "What are my schedules?" he now back to his zombie mode. I just shook my head when he looked back at the monitor of hisputer. I read all his listed schedules for the day without hearing any words from him. "Anything else, Sir?" "You can go back to work!" He replied without looking at me. I sighed but not enough for him to hear. I don''t know whates into me but I stood straight and get his attention again. "You know what Mr Wilsons..." I waited for him to look up and when he did, I continued. "You''re really handsome and cute when you smile." I praised him smiling and I noticed how he was taken aback by my words. And with that, I didn''t wait for him to say even a single word. I walked towards the double door without looking back and went out. When I was finally out, I tapped my face with my both palms. I need to do it because I felt my face burn with embarrassment. I called him handsome and cute. Shit!, What would he think of me? * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * When our lunch breakes, I can''t help myself but tell Sandy what happened in Mr Wilsons'' office. But of course, not those blushing moments of mine and those sexy things I thought about him. I dragged her to the far corner of the cafeteria to make sure no one could drop their ears to our conversation. "What is It Madi, that you really had to pull me to this corner?" sheined with a sour face. "We need to sit here because what I am about to tell you is a piece of shocking news!" "Wow.. make it sure I''ll be shocked by your ''shocking news''." she mimicked my words but I just smirked. "Well... he smiled." "What? Who smiled? Don''t tell me it''s Mr Wilsons, because that''s what we called a miracle---" "Yes." "What?" her eyes widened. "And he evenughed, Sandy!" "Oh fuck! Are you serious? He smiled andughed?" her loud voice caught the attention of some employees near our table. "Hey! Sit down!" I red at her when she stood in surprise. "Are you sure you''re not kidding?" she asked almost in a whisper. "I''m not. I''m telling you, I saw him smile andugh for the first time." I can still imagine his face. "Oh my God! That''s really shocking news, Madi!" she took her handkerchief and put it on her mouth as she screamed in excitement. "See? I told you." "But how did it happened? I mean, when? Why didn''t you call me?" she frowned. And I told her what happened early this morning and even what happened yesterday. "Gosh! He did that? He closed the door just to tell you he won''t let you leave?" I nodded. "That''s creepy." "Yes. Because he wanted me to ept his deal." "Haist!" she sighed. "What if... you ept his deal?" "And then what? Help him get his revenge?" "No! Not that, but to help him to move on and see the bright side of their break up." she leaned back in her seat. "Well, you can''t me him, he''s hurt and it''s deep. It changed his whole personality and perspective in life." A soft chuckled came out from my lips. It''s the same with Noelle''s words. "Come on, Sandy. You know what was the real reason why he wanted me to be his wife. We already talked about this!" "Yeah.. but what if epting his deal, you be friends and you could help him be himself again?" "Be himself?" "Madi... I know you''re thinking about his stupid n against his ex .. and the great amount of money he''s willing to spend. But, I''m here Madi. If you don''t want to take the money.. just ept his deal and I''ll be the one take it." She ended her suggestion with augh. I red at her. "So, you want me to ept his deal because you''re up to his money?" "Just kidding!" and sheughed again. I watched her as she gave me one of her hriousugh and I couldn''t help but shake my head. "Wait! Did he mention anything or what his deal consists of, besides paying you his millions?" I straightened my seat. "No. Remember, I walked out when he didn''t want to tell me half of what happened and yesterday he told me that if I epted his offer he would give me a lot of works... cooking for him, polishing his shoes and bringing his suitcase! My God! He just wanted me to be his maid! I mean... this beauty and brain that I have? No way!" She ended up coughing afterughing so hard with me. "I love you, Madi!" she said stillughing. "I know." and I rolled my eyes. N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "That''s what I''m talking about, girl." she suddenly became serious. "What do you mean?" I also asked seriously. "You two had different personalities. He''s cold and you''re warm to people and easy to approach. He''s rude sometimes and bossy but you''re down to earth. And he''s kinda distant, loner, well, let''s just say introvert. But you Madi, you''re his total opposite. You''re adventurous and you love taking challenges!" "Wow! That''s long." I''m talking about her speech. I was right when I told Noelle that she and Sandy have the same personality. But I love them both. "Is that all you can say?" "Uhm.. thanks for your long speech, but you forgot one thing." a smile formed my lips. "And what is it?" she asked confused. "You forgot to mention that ''I am beautiful." I proudly stated. First, he red at me, but after a while, we were bothughing our life out. "But Sandy, no matter how long and nice your speech was, my answer is still ''no''." "Madi---" "No. This isn''t just a simple offer, Sandy. We''re talking about marriage here. A life challenging offer. If I epted it, how would I exin that to my mom?" She sighed and just shrugged her shoulders. I don''t get married at this age.. not if I found the right one for me. And I never imagined it to be a marriage of convenience. If I get married someday, it should be my dream wedding... to the man of my dreams and to the man I loved. Chapter 14: The woman from his past Chapter 14: The woman from his past Earlier this morning, I got a call from my three best friends-sh- managers. Noelle, George and Arielle. Well not actually from all of them, it''s just Noelle... they wanted me to go to the mall for shopping, and shopping and non-stop shopping. It''s Saturday today, and it''s supposed to be my ''no work'', ''no stress'', ''no waking up early'' and ''no rolling my eyes'' day. See? even rolling my eyes is included to this early moment. I usually do that ''mentally'' in the office when I am in front of my jerk of a boss and sometimes in front of him when I know he''s not looking. But you know... thanks to these three girl-friends of mine, I had to wake up early, take a bath early and get ready for their non-stop pulling there, and everywhere. As if I have a choice. Uhm.. have I told you I am a fan of shorts? Especially denim shorts. And that''s what I chose to wear today, blue denim shorts with white spaghetti strapped-top. I just paired it with my nude t-sandals and very light makeup. After checking myself in the mirror for I don''t know how many times since this morning ( but I promise this would be thest time )... I winked at myself. R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only "Tsk.tsk.tsk. Why am I so beautiful?" I asked my reflection as I shook my head. Does it sound like I''m lifting my chair again? Well, if I wouldn''t tell myself first, then who would it be? My mom? Of course, she will, she''s my mother. But since she''s not here, let me take her job for a while and tell myself that I''m beautiful. "Good morning, Jamie." I greeted my t-mate when I found her in the living room. "Wow! Is that the new version of you, Madi, getting up early on Saturday morning?" She asked smiling after putting down her cup of tea. Argh! I bit my bottom lip... I hate tea. As much as I hate mornings, I also hate tea. Well, I don''t literally hate it... it''s just not my favourite. "No. You know I hate mornings." I took my favourite mug and poured it with coffee from the coffee maker. "Yeah, so.. where are you going?" "Uhm.. hanging out with friends." I shrugged. "Wow, that''s great." "Do you wanna join us?" I asked as I put some cream and sugar. "I love to, but I can''t." she sighed. "By the way Madi, I''m moving out maybe a few days from now." "What? But why?" I asked her in surprise. I also walked towards her and sat down in the vacant chair beside her. "Uhm... Andrew proposed to me." And she showed me the diamond ring on her finger. I can see the love and happiness through her eyes. "Huh! Oh my God! That''s so beautiful, congrattions Jamie." I hugged her. "Ahhh... I''m gonna miss you." "Me too. I wish you also find your prince charming." I chuckled at her words. "Prince charming... really Jamie?" "Yes, because you''re not getting any younger. You should also have to start your own family before your age exceeds on the calendar." I couldn''t help butugh at her. "Why do you guys always push me to have a family and date at this age? I''m only 26 and I still have 5 years before I get through that calendar thing of yours." "Because you don''t even have a boyfriend! And you''re still a vir----" "A virgin!" I continued what she was about to say. I knew it. "Yes. You are." I rolled my eyes but she justughed at me. "You''re going to visit me here if you have free time." "Of course." "And promise me, I am going to be your first baby''s Godmother." Sheughed again. "I promise." After a few more minutes of talking to Jamie, I''m on my way to the mall to meet these three girls who disturbed my sleeping beauty-rest. I should be in my dreand by now and kissing my prince charming.... charr! After parking my car at the parking lot, I took my phone together with the sling bag and headed towards the entrance. I seized my time looking at the boutiques inside and people who are some were busy buying some things while the others were just messing up the disy of the merchandise. And my eyesnded on a slim figured woman who hadn''t bought anything in that store. I raised an eyebrow when she left and walked into the next boutique. Since it''s a ss panel, I can see her even on the outside. And like what she did in the first shop, she didn''t buy anything either. I don''t know, but her face seemed familiar. I''m not sure if I really know her, but I think I had seen her face somewhere. I was about to approach the woman when my eyes darted on a very familiar man, not far from where I was. "Mr Wilsons?" I frowned in shock and disbelief. "What is he doing here?" He''s wearing a in white t-shirt and jeans and --- ck sunsses? I gulped as my eyesnded on his toned chest that wasn''t sessfully hiding from his shirt. "Thank God, the girls aren''t here." I made sure he couldn''t see me in the space I was in. I was near the perfume boot in front of the boutique where the slim woman kept messing around. And where is Mr Wilsons looking at? Wait? Is he also looking inside the boutique? And to the same woman? My eyes moved from the woman to Mr Wilsons... and then it hit me. "She''s the woman I saw on his phone!" I blurted out a bit loud. "Miss, are you okay?" asked the salesdy inside the booth. I smiled at her and nodded. "Yeah, I''m fine. Don''t mind me." I smiled again but, to my surprise, she raised an eyebrow and shook her head. -''Huh!''- I mentally huffed as I get my attention back to the two. So, it''s true. She''s back. And I can''t believe that Mr Wilsons is spying on this woman personally. What happened to his investigator? Ohh... poor guy, maybe he got fired because this arrogant man who still can''t move on with his past wasn''t satisfied with the reports he submitted, and now he''s doing it himself. Tsk.Tsk.Tsk. I don''t know what happened the next second... but there''s a man who came out of nowhere and kissed the woman on her lips... hard. "Ohh! Foul!" I muttered subconsciously when I saw Mr Wilsons from his fists. A sudden feeling of pity and hurt surged inside me just by looking at the man who can''t take his eyes off the scene not so far from him. How does it feel when you''re still in love with someone who loved you once but then left you afterwards? Does it really hurt that he can''t move on after that? Did he love her that much that he couldn''t get on with his life? How much pain he suffered after knowing that the one with whom he shared his life, betrayed him with someone else? And how much of that pain is he suffering now as he continued watching the woman he once loved and cherished all his life, but now with someone else''s arms? ****************************** Chapter 15: Coffee and Kisses Chapter 15: Coffee and Kisses Madi''s POV: I continued to watch the two types of scenes in front of me. The first one is the continuation of eww-kiss from the slim woman and from the man whose face I can''t see until now because he''s really busy eating... I mean kissing the woman''s face. And the other one is the furious Mr Wilsons who also continued watching the painful scene in front of him. Is he really that stupid to continue watching them? I''m sure that if there would be a parade of fools and martyrs right at the moment, I''m going to choose him to be their president and leader. Or if I can only build a statue for someone like him for being a stupid and dumbest person, I swear I''m not going to waste any second. Do you get my point? You know, he''s in pain. He knows he''s still in pain, but why does he have to stay and watch them? My holy God! I took a deep breath before going to where my stupid boss was. Well, we''re not in the office, so God help me, I will cut what they call ''formality'' and ''professionalism''. I stood next to him, but since he was focus on the two, he didn''t notice me. "Ohh.. so she''s the girl. What''s her name?" I asked, not looking at him but at the two who can''t tear their lips away from each other. He looked at me. I swear I looked like a dwarf from his towering height. He took off his sunsses and my breath hitched at the sight of his mesmerizing brown eyes. -''God! I''ve always seen his eyes every day, but why is it different right now?''- I mentally pped my forehead from being distracted by his freaking eyes. He scrunched his eyebrows and checked me from head to down while his mouth formed an ''O'' shape. -''Yeah, I know I''m sexy and beautiful.''- I need to bite my inner cheeks to control my ''Madi'' smile. "Hi, Sir." I greeted him with a wide smile and his eyes widened in which I don''t know if in surprise or whatever. Oops! Did I sound like a slut? Okay... repeat. "Good morning Mr Wilsons." I smiled again. "Madi?" My smile dropped from the way he mentioned my name. Holy shit! Why did it sound so sexy when he mentions my name? "Whoa! Can I also call you, Gabriel? We''re not in the office." -''I wish I could close his mouth with my lips... oh shit! Stop it, Madielyn!''- "What are you doing here?" we looked at each other as we asked in unison. "Just looking around." "Hanging out with my friends." We answered again in unison. But my eyebrow raised at his answer. ''Just looking around''. "Hmm... looking around?" I looked at him through myshes. "Or looking for someone... I mean, looking at someone?" His head snapped at me with his serious-looking eyes. "It''s none of your business!" he said through gritted teeth. I admit I wasn''t expecting that reaction from him. But take note... I am Madi and I never back away easily. "I see, it''s none of my business." I arched an eyebrow. I noticed a mug of coffee on his hand. And I don''t know what came into me. Before I could think of anything, I snatched it out of his grip and walked over to the two love-fucking- birds who were now pulling their lips away from each other. I heard him call my name, but I continued to walk. When I was only a few steps away from the skinny girl---wait---- his ex-fiancee, I purposely tripped my right foot over the basket that was on the floor. Then it''s bingo! My coffee, I mean Mr Wilsons'' coffee flew over ''including the mug'' onto the skinny woman''s dress. "What the fuck!" she screamed as she narrowed her eyes on me. "Ohh... I''m sorry." I said, faking my apology. I swear if looks can kill, you can find me six feet under the ground right now. "Baby!" the man beside her instantly wiped her dress with his handkerchief. -''Baby? Seriously? Yucks... so corny!''- I shook my head. -''My God, I''m sorry for what I''ve done. I swear I don''t know what happened to me-----'' But my silent prayer was cut off by the man''s voice. "Look what you did to my girlfriend!" he shouted as if he''s going to punch me. "I said I''m sorry. I-I didn''t notice the basket on the floor." Oh gosh... I''m sorry poor basket. "Sorry? You ruined my dress, idiot!" the slim woman screamed again. -''What the----'' "She already apologized, what else do you want to hear, Stacey?" a shiver ran through my spine from the cold, familiar voiceing from behind me. And a strong muscr arm pulled me on his waist as he looked straight into the woman''s eyes. -''Stacey''- My mind repeated her name. "Gabriel!" She seemed shocked to see him in front of her. "Stacey." Mr Wilsons cold voice. "You know her?" her eyes suddenly turned to me and his hand on my waist. "Yes. She''s my girlfriend." My mouth dried instantly after hearing his words. And the realization hit me. I indirectly epted his deal. "Your girlfriend?" she asked with a snicker. As if she couldn''t believe I''m his girlfriend. Well, yeah, I''m not his real girlfriend, but the look on her face shows bitterness--- not what you expect from a woman kissing her new boyfriend. "Yes, you heard it right? This is Madi, my girlfriend and soon to be my wife for a few weeks from now." I looked at him in surprise. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. -''A few weeks from now?''- "Love, meet Stacey.. a friend from the past. And her boyfriend Ray." -''Did he just called me ''love''?''- My eyes turned as wide as a saucer. "Why did she seem so surprised that you called her love?" Asked the man whose name was Ray with a smirk. And Mr Wilsons looked at me with a determined look in his eyes. I sighed loudly before I decided to y along with his act. I smiled at him sweetly before I looked back to the two. "You know why, I seemed so surprised? It''s not because he called me love, but because, I remembered he told me once, how much he cherished a woman whose name was the same as yours but chose to betray him." I smiled as I saw their face dropped. "And you know what, if I ever I meet that woman, I''ll thank her for giving me this kind of opportunity to be loved by him." I looked into Gabriel''s eyes and caressed his face. I smiled before saying my final words. "I love you... love." My heart beats faster after saying those words. But the next thing he did was really out of my life''s imagination... He kissed me! He freaking kissed me. My knees buckled, but he held me on my lower back to support my weight.. while his other hand on the back of my neck. "I love you, too." He said smiling like an idiot after letting me go. He even kissed me on the lips and then my forehead. Forgodsake! He stole my first kiss! I felt my heart pounding as it came from racingpetition. If we''re not facing these two faked people, I''m gonna smack his face. "Is she really your girlfriend, Gabriel?" Stacey asked in disbelief. "Why? You can''t believe that I can move on from what you did?" Gabriel''s voiceced with venom as he looked directly into her eyes. I never missed Stacey and Ray''s shocked and horrified look. "Nice seeing you again, Stacey... Ray?" he said bitterly before guiding me out of the boutique. I still couldn''t find a word after what happened. I was still in a daze until he pulled me to an area with fewer people walking by. I pulled my hand out of his, but he just tightened his grip. "Why did you do that?" I asked, raising my voice. "Do what?" he acted innocently. "Why did you kiss me?" -''You stole my first kiss!''- I wanted to add, but I know it will only boost his ego, so I pushed it to the innermost level of my brain. "Because you finally epted my deal," he said smiling. Why is he smiling? I don''t need his smile right now! Is he bipr? "I didn''t remember agreeing or saying yes to any of your agreements, Mr Wilsons!" "Ohh, yes you did, love." "Don''t call me that!" I red at him. "But why? You yed along with my act, so that means you already agree." "Okay, I yed with your act, but why did you kiss me? Why did you have to kiss me?" "Because you said I love you." My eyes face turned sour as I can''t believe his way of thinking. "But you know I was just acting earlier !" "Yes, and I also acted my part!" "By kissing me?" How I wish I could just vanish the smirk on his face---argh! "It''s just a kiss. And it''s your fault, you tempted me," he said with a shrug. "Did I what? Tempted you?" goosebumps started creeping up the back of my nape. "You looked me in the eye, you touched my face, you said you loved me and then you smiled as if asking me to kiss you." "Ohh! For goodness sake! This is ridiculous!" I can no longer stand in front of him. I decided to go out to look for the girls, but he immediately grabbed my hand. "We''ll talk about thister, Madi." "What are you talking about? I already acted once for you!" "Yeah, and it''s not over yet. I''ll pick you up tonight at 7:00 pm." "No! No way!" I said taking my hand but he tightened again his hold. "Ohh.. love, you already forgot, I don''t take no for an answer." "Argh!" I really wanted to scratch his face, if only I could. "Tonight at seven pm." "I''ll wait for your driver." "No. I said I''lle to get you and not my driver. Get ready for then." I can''t help butugh. "Excuse me, Gabriel. Did you also forget that we''re not in the office? So you can''t order or boss me around." I smirked at his shocked face. "Then let''s see. If you''re not ready by seven, I''ll forcefully open your door and sleep in your house. How about that, love?" "Argh! Asshole!" I pulled my hand with a force and walked away from him for the second time. I still hear his voice and hisughs In my head, even though I was already inside the mall''s restroom. -''Now I''m starting to hate him, but more to myself. What am I thinking when I grabbed his coffee? It started with that freaking coffee and that slim woman-Stacey and not to mention, her arrogant boyfriend''- Gosh! What came into her mind for choosing that not-so-handsome-frog over Gabriel? Hello, he can never beat Gabriel with his square face! Gabriel has a perfectly sculpted nose, mesmerizing brown eyes, a cute dimple, perfect thick eyebrows andshes and of course, his soft pink lips. My hands automatically raised to my lips as I remembered how my first kiss happened. "Shit! Chapter 16: fashion Chapter 16: fashion Madi''s POV: N?velDrama.Org (C) content. "What am I going to wear--- what am I going to wear? Argh!" I kept asking myself for more than 10th times this evening. "I hate you, Mr Wilsons!" I grabbed my hair in frustration as I walked into my closet. "What should I suppose to wear?" I asked myself again. "A dress? A short? mini-dress? long dress------ " I paused as I smiled at the thought that popped up in my head. "Great, Madi! You''re such a smart woman!" a devilish grin formed on my lips. Ten minutes before seven in the evening, I decided to go downstairs and wait for him in the living room. For sure he knows how to knock. But as I went down the stairs, Jaime looked at me as if she saw a clown. I just rolled my eyes but then smiled at her. "What is that, Madi?" she can''t stopughing. "What?" I asked innocently. "What are you wearing? Seriously? An ankle-length white skirt and a white-loose blouse? Where are you from--- 16th or 15th century?" Sheughed again, clutching her stomach. "Why? It''s fashion." I just shrugged. "Yeah, that''s a great fashion, Madi. That''s also how my great-grandmother''s style when she''s a teenager." And Iughed with her. Why? Because I can imagine what Gabriel''s reaction would be after seeing my ''beautiful'' outfit. "By the way, where are you going?" she bit her lower lip to keep fromughing. But before I could answer her question, there''s a knock on the front door. She arched her eyebrow. "Expecting someone?" I didn''t answer her, I just smiled and shrugged as I walked towards the door and took a deep breath before opening it. But surprisingly, my mouth went dry at the sight in front of me. The Greek God himself. The living Hercules. The ever handsome, Gabriel Wilsons in his mouth- watering outfit of the night. He''s wearing just a simple ck shirt and ck pants, but you can''t deny the Adonis hiding on his fitted shirt. But then my smile widened when his jaws dropped after seeing my dress. And without waiting for a second, he pushed me back inside the door and closed it with a loud bang behind him. He grabbed my wrist, narrowing his eyes on me. I gasped at his sudden action. "What the hell are you wearing, Madi? That''s my grandmother''s dress when she''s at your age!" Jamie''s exact words. I was about to open my mouth when we both heard Jamieugh. We both looked at her. But herugh died instantly when she noticed that Gabriel had a serious expression. "Oops! Sorry. I''m going to the kitchen. I think I forgot to turn off the faucet." and she ran back to the kitchen. -''Faucet, Jamie? You really didn''te with a better excuse?''- I asked silently on her retreating back. When she''s out of our sight, Gabriel asked me again. "What are you wearing, Madi? What is that?" he asked in a disgusted tone. And I just repeated what I told Jamie earlier. "This is what we called fashion!" I shrugged. "Fashion? Madi, I wasn''t born yesterday not to know what is called ''fashion'' or not!" "Why? What do you know about woman''s fashion for clothes? You''re a man!" I withdrew my hand. But instead of answering my question, "Where is your room?" I looked at him, confused. "Why? What are you asking for---" "I''m asking you, where is your room?" "Upstairs! Why?" "Let''s go!" he grabbed my wrist again and led me towards the stairs. "What are you doing---" "We''ll change your fucking clothes into a nice one!" My eyeballs almost popped out of my eyes after realizing what he meant. "No! You can''t do that!" I stopped walking and his head turned back to me. "And why?" "Because excuse me! I can do it myself!" I snapped at him annoyed, but the jerk himself just smirked at me. "You know, I can help you." he shrugged and I red at him. What happened to the cold Mr Wilsons in the office? Because the man in front of me is slightly opposite to that man. "Oh, hell no, Mr Gabriel Wilsons! Just go back to the living room and wait for me on the couch!" "Are you ordering me right now, Ms Davis?" he asked in a challenging tone, but I have a smirk. "Yes, Mr Wilsons. Have you forgotten that you''re in my beautiful apartment and not in your office? So, whatever you want to call it, ordering you or whatsoever--- I don''t care. You''re not my boss at this very moment, so I can say whatever I want to say!" I proudly stated with my ''Madi'' smile. His face turned serious as he gritted his teeth. I raised an eyebrow and looked at him directly, but I frowned when his lips suddenly curled into a devilish smile. "I like that feisty side of yours, Madi." I didn''t even get a chance to form a word as he already turned his back on me and walked towards the living room. I just let an annoyed sigh before heading to my room. Now, back to my question earlier--- ''what am I going wear?'' I went back into my closet and opened all the cab doors, so I can choose what to wear. Maybe jeans, because he''s also wearing jeans? A ck dress, because he''s also wearing a ck shirt and pants? But in the end, I chose to wear my white spaghetti strap dress that ended two inches above my knees. I did my hair in a high ponytail and reapplied my lipstick. When I was satisfied with my looks, I exited my room with my phone and a pouch in my hand. I found him and Jamie both sitting on the couch. When they noticed me, Jamie gave me her teasing grin and Gabriel stared at me continuously until I reached them. "Ahem! Are we still going or not? Because it''s a big favor for me if we''re not----" "Let''s go." he cut me off by grabbing my hand. "Thank you, Jamie," he smiled at her and dragged me towards the door. "No problem. Just take care of my friend, Gabriel." "I will." I just turned my head on her as my hand was continually being pulled by the Greek God towards the direction of the door. She winked at me and smiled like she won a lottery. -''Why is she smiling? Is there something that Gabriel told her?''- He pulled me into his car and opened the passenger side for me. "I have my car!" "I know." and he closed the door with a bang. "Rude! Jerk!" I muttered to myself and red at his figure outside as he walked to the driver''s side. Chapter 17: Late for the first time Chapter 17: Late for the first time Madi''s POV: 2:00 am. I tried to sleep, but this freaking sleep doesn''t want to visit me. I did almost everything but every time I closed my eyes, all I saw see was his face, smiling at me. And the question that kept ringing in my head, was the real reason why I epted his deal. Am I attracted to him? No! It''s only been two months, it''s impossible! How would exin this to my mom? Would I tell her the truth? Or maybe act like I''m in love with Gabriel? I don''t know what time I dozed off. It''s actually the first time this has happened to me... thinking about a person until I fall asleep. 6:00 am. 6:30 am. 7:00 am . . . . . . . 8:30 am Kringgggggg... Kringgggggg... "Argh! I hate you! Can you stop on ringing?" I shouted frustratedly. Actually, I don''t know if it''s my rm clock or my cellphone. Kringgggggg... "Argh!" With my eyes still closed, I took the rm clock from the bedside table. "Tell me who set you up so early on a Sunday morning?" And then I turned it off. I was about to go back to sleep when my phone rings under the nket. "Oh, God! Can anyone tell this damn caller I want to sleep more?" I searched for my phone and answered it without looking for the person who was calling. "Hello?" My eyes were still closed. "Hello, your ass, Madi! Where the hell are you? Mr Wilsons transformed into being hulk again today. Forgodsake!" My eyes snapped open as I looked at the phone screen. "Sandy?" This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org. Why is she calling me this Sunday morning? "Oh, yes.. princess Madi. I''m asking you, where the hell are you?" "At home. In my room. And you disturbed my sleep, my God, Sandy! Can you just call me tomorrow? Since tomorrow is Monday and I''ll see you by then." I closed my eyes again. "What the hell is going on with you? You''re crazy, today is already Monday and Mr Wilsons was really mad because his coffee isn''t on his table yet, and it''s already 8:45 am!" "What are you talking about --- holy shit! Oh my God! Oh my God!" My eyes went wide as I started to run to the bathroom with my phone. "Why didn''t you tell me today is Monday? Why didn''t you call me?" Wow! So, it''s my fault? It''s the first time you''re going to bete, what happened to you? Are you sick? Because if you are, I''m gonna tell Mr.---" "No! I''m fine! I mean, I''m not sick. I''m going to work today and about his coffee, can you just make him coffee today, please?" "Oh Madi, I''m sorry, I did it already, but he kept asking for you." "Oh my! Uhm... Sandy, I''m going to take a bath now, bye." I ended the call without waiting for her response. Oh my gosh! What happened to me? I thought it was just Sunday today. And while taking a bath, I tried to remember what happenedst night. Well,st Saturday night we talked again, and if I remember correctly, I''ve already agreed to his deal. And then after that, he took me home. And yesterday ... oh shit! I just stayed at home and didn''t visit any of my restaurants which is my Sunday routine... that''s why my mind was stacked by what happened Saturday night. After putting on my uniform, I only applied mascara and my ''love that red'' lipstick, so even if I have no makeup, my lipstick will stand out and carry my day. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * While I was in the lift, as for my sweetest and luckiest day... there was also the president of the bullies... Jenny, and her assistant Ailene. "Wow. What happened to you, Ms Davis? Are you "Oh no, Jenny, she''s notte! She''s just too early for tomorrow." Aileneughed in a bitchyugh too. And as always, I didn''t care. I kept staring at the elevator door. I see them through the mirror type stainless steel door. They were repeatedly sharing high fives whileughing their lungs out as if there was no tomorrow. -''It''s okay. You canugh all your way out, I don''t care! I don''t work for you and you''re not the one paying my sry! Hmph!''- I just rolled my eyes at that thought. Well that''s true, right? Why would I get affected by these two bullies, they were nothing at allpared to my beauty! Just kidding. ding... "Oh thank God!" Ailene eximed when the lift stopped on our floor. "Yes. At least we can no longer see the woman as pathetic as she is trying to seduce her boss!" Jenny snorted and pushed me a bit to the side as they stepped out. My mouth has formed an ''O'' shape not because of the push but because of what she said. -''Me? Seducing my boss? Haha... if you only knew the truth, that ''your'' boss was the one trapping me to be his wife!-'' There are no other people inside... except the three of us, so there are no witnesses to what they did. Well, except the cameraman. I just smiled at the camera. I know, whoever was there.. they knew what happened. And the same things like this that had happened even before. Due tock of sleep, my eyes burn a little from the brightness of the lights. Thank you to the technical department for putting this type of lights... blinding-lights to be exactly called. "Oh, there you are!" I was just about to sit in the chair when Sandy came to my door. My back was facing her. "What happened to you---" she stopped in the middle of her question after seeing my face. I scrunched my eyebrows. "Why? Am I having huge eye bags?" I asked cing my fingers under my eyes. "No! You''re wearing red lipstick today! Why?" she asked me and I chuckled at her question like it was a shame to wear this red lipstick. "Yes. Why, did I put too much?" "Nope, it''s actually beautiful. It''s just that, I haven''t noticed you wearing that shade before." She walked over to my desk. "But I did." I took mypact mirror and checked it again. And then a smile curled against my lips when I realized she''s right. "Oh, I remember I only use this every weekend, but not here in the office." "So, what made you decide to wear that?" "Because I''mte and I don''t have enough time to put some colours on my face. By the way, how is Mr Wilsons?" I tried to hide my face by putting the mirror back on the bag. I don''t know but mentioning his name made me blush in an instant. "He''s still waiting for you," she said in a very casual tone. "What?" my eyes snapped at her in confusion. "Yes. I don''t know what happened to that grumpy old man. As I rememberedst week, he doesn''t want to see your face, but now, he doesn''t want me to make his coffee because he said he''s going to wait for you." she rolled her eyes in annoyance. "My God!" I murmured slowly. I didn''t miss the curiosity that danced in her eyes when I looked at her "What?" "Tell me, Madielyn Davis, is there''s something I don''t know and that I need to know?" she eyed me like a hawk as if I were her prey. I sighed and closed my eyes. I feel the need to share this ''news'' with her because she too knew it anyway from the very beginning. And I''m sure, it will be so difficult to move inside this building if the boss and owner himself is your ''boyfriend''. And I blushed again at the thought. "Oh, jeez! You''re blushing!" she eximed loudly. "Keep your voice down! I''m going to tell youter at lunch." I almost whispered to her. "Oh my God, Madi! Don''t tell me I''m right with what I''m thinking right now?" I rolled my eyes. "Whatever. Just wait for the lunch break!" "Ahhggg!" she covered her mouth and then screamed before exiting my office door ... squealing. "Tsk.Tsk.Tsk. How can I tell this to herter without squealing like that?" I just let out a heavy sigh. Chapter 18: The Love endearment Chapter 18: The ''Love'' endearment "Why are youte?" The first thing my boss asked me, the moment I walked into his office. His face was masked by old ''Gabriel''s demeanour. I put the coffee on his desk and tried to behave normally as I smiled at him. "I''m sorry, Sir. My mom called metest night, so I sleepte. It won''t happen again." He stared at me for a few seconds before his lips curled up in a devilish smile. "It''s okay ''love''. Since it''s your first time beingte, I''ll just let it pass." Huh! To hell with the professionalism---- I raised my eyebrow at him. "Don''t call me that, Mr Wilsons! We are in the office and we''ve already talked about it!" "Oh, yes love. We already talked about the deal, but calling you love wasn''t included in it. We agreed that we will keep our rtionship in this whole building and that''s your idea. Well, I have mine too. We will call each other the ''love'' endearment whenever we are alone." "Huh! Why didn''t you tell me thatst Saturday night?" I bit my lip to control my voice from rising. "Don''t raise your voice to me, we''re still in the office. I just want you to know that you can talk to me any way you want outside of thispany, but I am your boss while we''re still inside." his voice turned back into cold and serious. Honestly, I was taken aback at his sudden change in tone. From being yful to being serious again? Is he suffering from an identity disorder? "Yes, Sir." I straightened my body but never thought about apologizing. Why would I? He started it. "Did you bring my schedule, love?" -''Again? Is he ying with me?''- "Mr Wilsons, I thought---" "Madi, listen. This is a part of the deal. I have to call you that endearment, so I can avoid calling you by yourst name in front of her and my family. You just have to y the role. And I don''t see anything wrong with that. We will only do it when we are alone and not in front of the employees here." I sighed as I nodded. "Okay. But please Sir, avoid calling me that in public especially in this building with so many people eyeing our moves." "Okay, but I want you to start calling me that now, Madi. You should also practice yourself." My eyebrows joined in a line. "And why do I have to practice calling you ''love''? I''m not a forgetful person." "Madi, let me remind you again. Whether or not you have signed a contract with this deal, you have already agreed on this. And what if I tell you that I''m going to kiss you now, in your office and in the cafeteria while you eat, if you don''t start calling me ''love'' right now?" "Huh!" my heart pounded faster inside my ribcage as if it just came from a marathon. "Ohh... see? Now I know how to make you agree every time we have an argument like this." Guess what? He''s now grinning. What a bipr, right? "You can''t do that! You''re not my boyfriend!" I whispered-yelled at him, but he justughed again. How I wish this carefree side of him was real and not just for the contract. "You really made meugh, love," he said stillughing while shaking his head. "And what funny thing did I say that made youugh?" I asked acting annoyed, but honestly, I''m happy to know that at least I can be one of the reasons why he''s nowughing. "Love, when you epted the deal, that means, in that very moment, I became your boyfriend and you too became my girlfriend." "Oh, God!" I pped my forehead. "But it''s not for real!" "No, love. It''s for real. I told you we''re going to get married." "Wait! After we got married---" "You''re going to move in with me." "What?" my voiced rose an octave higher. "Yes. We''re married, where would you like to live after that--- in your apartment? Absolutely not, I won''t let you." N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "But what about the ... you know... the.." "What? Say it, my love." he smiled teasing me. He stood up and walked slowly towards me. He sat on the edge of his desk two steps away from me and crossed his arms over his chest. My eyes watched his every move. "You already know what I am talking about, do I have to say it out loud?" I said feeling irritated as my face slowly turned into a shade of pink. "Is about sex? Is that what you mean?" "Yes. About that. If I go live with you, I should have my room. No kissing and no that... that--- argh! No sex!" "What about our marriage? Aren''t we going to consume our marriage---" "Mr Wilsons!" I shouted horrified by his question. He suddenly became serious at stared at me. "One more time you called me ''Mr Wilsons'', love and I promise you won''t leave this office without me kissing that sweet lips of yours." he warned me with his authoritative voice. And I swear, if we''re not just talking about this freaking kiss, I won''t back down with his voice. "Argh! You can''t do that!" I red at him. But he just chuckled and got up again. "What are you doing?" I asked feeling nervous for the very first time. "You said I can''t kiss you, so I''ll try and prove it to you now." I wish I could smack the devilish grin on his face. He started taking a step forward while I started taking a step back. "Oh my God, stop right there!" I shouted as I brought my hands forward in a stopping position. "Why? I''m not doing anything." He acted innocently as he put his hands on both of his pants pocket. "Gabriel we are in your office!" he was surprised by me calling his name. But he smirked again after a while. My back now hit the cold wall behind me, and my eyes widened in nervousness. "So, the end of your stepping backwards, huh?" "Gabriel, please?" I plead as I swallowed the lump in my throat. "Please what? Say it, love." I didn''t know how many times I took a deep breath at that very moment before I decided to shout what he wanted. "Ok fine!" I put my hands in a surrender position. "Stop this, ''love''!" I red at him as his smile changed into a wide one. His body was just an inch from mine. I can almost smell his minty breath and the smell of his aftershave along with his cologne. "Good. See? It''s not difficult right, love?" I rolled my eyes. And since we''re both busy on one side of his office, we didn''t notice when the door opened and even the person standing exactly at the door. "Yes, my love, it''s not difficult." I continue to re at him, but the sudden sound of things that fell to the floor caught our attention. It''s a white folder. "Sandy?" "Ms Agur!" We both mentioned her first andst name in unison but in a different tone. Mine was in a question form, but him in an using tone. But Sandy, of course being Sandy, lowered her head in nervousness. And I couldn''t help shaking my head. Why is she so nervous? "You don''t know how to knock, Ms Agur?" Gabriel returned to his arrogant self. So far from his yful side earlier. "I''m sorry, Sir, but believe me, I knocked more than five or six times, but I didn''t get any answers so---" "So you let yourself in without my permission?" "No Sir, I''m sorry." she lowered her head again. I don''t know but I grabbed Gabriel''s hands and shake my head on him. Silently telling him that he doesn''t need to worry about Sandy because she''s on me. "I have to go, Sir... I mean ''love''." I raised my voice purposely to tease him and to let Sandy know. "I''ll leave your schedules on the table, love." And I gave him a slight nudge in the stomach, causing him to winced in a bit of pain. "Ohh... I''m sorry, my love, did I hurt you that much?" I asked grinning. I was now back to myself... again. He red at me but didn''t say anything. "Okay, bye love, call me if you need me." and I winked at him before dragging Sandy out of his office. Chapter 19: Lets go where? Chapter 19: Let''s go where? As far as I remember, I was the one dragging Sandy out of the CEO''s office, but now she''s the one pulling my hand into her office. As soon as we both entered, she closed the door and I chuckled when she locked it. "Sit down!" My eyes went widened. I looked like a dog that got an order from its owner to sit down. Ohh.. maybe a momentter she would also want me to roll over. Arf! Arf! "Madielyn Davis! Is there something I need to know or would you like to tell me?" I bit my lip to control myugh. "What?" I acted innocently. She red at me as she put both hands on her hips. "Don''t you ever what---what me Madielyn Davis! What just had happened in the CEO''s office? What''s the meaning of your so-called ''I''m sorry, love?" "Ohh.. that one?" "Madielyn!" she pulled her hair out of frustration. And seeing her in that state made meugh so hard. I really like making fun of her. "Wait, I told you I''ll share this to you after----" "No! I can''t wait any longer! Spill the bean right now! My god, you almost kissed earlier. What was that? Don''t tell me---" her eyes widened before screaming. "Oh my God, Sandy! Keep your voice down!" my face turned red as I looked out of the blurred ss panel of her office. "Ohe on, I''ve locked the door." "You locked the door, yes.. but this is not a soundproof room! What are you thinking?" I red at her as I motioned for her to get into her seat. "Fine, I''m sorry." she immediately walked towards her swivel chair. "Now spill it!" "Sandy, let me remind you, this is not a real rtionship, not a real engagement and not a real marriage." "But why we''re you calling each other ''love'' earlier?" I sighed as I looked into her round eyes before speaking. "He wants me to call him love, I mean.. this would be our term of endearment when he introduces me to his family and when we''re in front of his ''so-called ex-fiancee''." "Ohh... but why is there a bitterness in your voice when you mentioned ''his so-called ex-fiancee''?" she mimicked my words and I frowned. "Bitterness? What are you talking about? As I told you, this is just a ''fake'' rtionship." I emphasized the word ''fake'' in front of her face. "Fake'' rtionship... okay." she put her right thumb on her chin as she nodded. "Anyway, what made you decide to agree? I thought you didn''t want to get involved in his ''so-called revenge'' on his ex? So, what happened?" I sighed again as I looked straight at the shelves in front of me, which is why I missed the smile of amusement on her face. "Last Saturday, the girls called me. You know, my outlet managers. They said they wanted to go out, so I followed them to the mall and to make the story short, I encountered Mr Wilsons and his ex-fianc¨¦e inside the mall. And that''s it, it all happened there." I exined with a shrug. "Ohh, Madi, I''m going to die with your story! I want all the details,e on!" "My God! What do you want, word for word, scene by scene or what? We are in the office Sandy, and it''s still office hours!" "Argh! I hate you!" she huffed as she crossed her arms over her chest. "Fine! Butter, at lunch, you''re going to tell me the whole story! If you need to recite it word for word or reenact the whole scene, I don''t care! Just tell me what happened, I''m so excited!" I just rolled my eyes as she pped her hands. I am thinking if that''s her reaction without knowing the whole story, then what more if I told her that her boss kissed me and stole my first kiss? "I have to go, I don''t know if he''s already calling me now." "Alright, but Madi, promise me you''re going to tell me everything at lunch!" "Okay, okay. Bye." I rolled my eyes before heading for the door. "You really locked this one, huh?" I said referring to the door. But she justughed. "As if your office is a soundproof room." then I exited her office. Upon entering my office, I was greeted by the ring of the inte. I immediately ran and pressed the speaker button. It was a call from the CEO''s office. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. Mr Wilsons!" "Where are you? I''ve been calling you for almost an hour!" the demanding voice came from my boss. -''Hour? I haven''t even spent thirty minutes inside Sandy''s office.''- "I''m sorry, Sir, I just got some documents from Ms Agur''s office." "You''re calling me that again!" "Huh?" I don''t know what he''s talking about. I''m calling him what? "You''re calling me Sir, again." -''ohh..''- "Because we''re just on the phone, Sir," I said furrowing my eyebrows. "Yes, but it''s just the two of us!" "What? Don''t tell me, Sir, that even on the phone I have to call you ''love''?" my face twitched in disbelief. What are we---a real couple? "Yes. How can you practice with that?" -''Wow! this is getting weird!''- "Sir, this is apany phone. Maybe we can call each other that endearment if we''re using our private phones." "So, what are you saying that I have to call you on your private phone whenever I have something important to tell you?" "That''s not what I mean, Sir." I took a deep breath before continuing. "Why did you call, Mr Wilsons? Do you need anything, Sir?" I haven''t heard any answer from the other line. "Sir?" "Send me a copy of thetest reports submitted by the finance department." "Okay, Sir. Anything else?" "Nothing so far, ''love." I gritted my teeth when I heard himugh at the other line. He''s just teasing me. -''You want this teasing game, huh''-. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * It''s only 11:50 am on my wristwatch when Sandy walked into my office. She suddenly sat in the chair in front of my desk with a wide smile on her face. "Yes?" the only word that came out of my mouth. "Lunch." she shrugged, but still had the same smile on her lips. "Sandy, don''t you have a watch in your hand? It''s still ten minutes before twelve. You''re so early." "Oh, my dearest Madi, I won''t buy that. Ten minutes--- huh! If we start walking from here to the Cafeteria, we will spend those ten minutes of yours." "Wow, since when does the walk from here to the cafeteria take up to ten minutes? Hell... it''s only three minutes and you''re already there." "Oops! Of course, we''re going to slow down, so you can start sharing the other part of the story." I rolled my eyes as she winked at me. "I see, great! You are really smart." "Of course---" but was interrupted when our boss came to our view. "Ms Davis, let''s go." "Sir?" I got up immediately after seeing him enter Mr Wilsons." Sandy also stood up and greeted him. "Let''s go." His face was full of seriousness and I couldn''t help but raise my eyebrow. "Let''s go where?" "Lunch meeting," he said casually. "Lu-Lunch meeting?" my eyes snapped to Sandy''s face. I wanted tough when I saw her expression as if she was about to cry. "Yes. Lunch meeting, let''s go." "But Sir, I don''t remember you having a lunch meeting today on your schedule?" I got confused as to where did this lunch meetinge from? "Oh yes. It''s not on the schedule, because Mr Enriquez called me directly about this meeting today." "Mr Enriquez of the southern project?" "Yes. That''s him." Why do I feel he''s not telling the truth? And since when did he approve this type of meeting without informing me to set in his schedule? "Ohh... Okay, Sir." I said nodding and looked back at Sandy who''s now secretly ring at me. -''It''s not my fault.''- I smiled at her before I gathered my things. "So, what documents should I bring, Sir?" "There''s no need to bring anything. They just wanted to have lunch with us." "Okay." -''Lunch with us''- Chapter 20: Lunch meeting to spying his Ex Chapter 20: Lunch meeting to spying his Ex "Bye, Sandy." I smiled as I kiss her cheek. "Bitch!" Iughed at her reaction. I know how she feels right now. And I''m sure she''s going to cut all my hair after this. I followed Mr Wilsons to the elevator and as usual, I need to use my athletic side just to match his giant strides. "So, where is this meeting, Sir?" He nced at me with a serious expression but said nothing. -''Okay, Thank you. Got it Madi. He''s not in the mood, so don''t waste your saliva by talking to this grumpy man.''- I just spoke silently to myself. Until we stepped out of the elevator and even we reached his car, I didn''t hear anyments or words from him. "Passenger side." "Huh?" I asked him confused. "I said the passenger side. Hop in!" Wow! what happened to him this time? He couldn''t even form aplete sentence? What happened to his mood? He was just yful this morning and suddenly became cold and grumpy again? Tsk.tsk.tsk. old habits are hard to die. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * It''s been twenty minutes that I''m in the car with him on the driver side, but he just kept driving. I feel really bored and hungry. I wanted to ask him and form any conversation but he seemed so serious, so I just focussed my eyes on the front. But five minutes have passed, I noticed a red car not far in front of us. What''s this, we have the same way? When it turned right at the traffic light, we also turned in the same direction. I nced at him and went back to the car. "Are you following that red car?" I couldn''t help but voiced out. Why? Because I can feel my friends inside my stomach, they were growling and crying... -''feed us Madi''- But as like earlier, I got no response. "It''s a simple question answerable by a yes or a no. Are you following that------" "Yes! We''re following that car! Happy?" he shouted annoyed. I didn''t expect that kind of response from him. Does he really need to yell at me? And what did he ask-- -happy? How could I be happy... I''m so hungry! I took a deep breath. -''Come on, Madi, rx. Maybe he''s just suffering from his mental illness or dysmenorrhea. Haha.. since when has a man suffered from dysmenorrhea? Well, not all of them, only this one who''s sitting in the driver seat. I rolled my eyes. If only I could chop this man and put him on my stomach, I swear I have done it from the first time my stomach growled. -''Oh thank God!''- I prayed silently when the freaking red car pulled over in front of the restaurant. -''Maybe it''s Mr Enriquez.''- I sighed at my thought, but my eyes widened after seeing who that freaking person--- no, it''s persons exited the car. His ex and her boyfriend. I couldn''t believe all this time, we''re just following none other than his ''great ex-fianc¨¦e and her super great boyfriend''. "Wow! I thought it''s a lunch meeting---" I stopped myself when I saw how much he''s throwing invisible daggers at the two. -''Tsk.tsk.tsk. You''re so lucky. If ever his looks could chop you into pieces, you will not able to enter that restaurant.''- I set aside the sudden pinch in my heart as I watched how he became affected by the scene in front of him. But I tried to be the ''Madi'' again. You know what it means to be Madi, always strong and confident. "So, were they the ones you''ve been following all this time?" "Yes, I followed them! Can you just shut up for a while?" Huh! He shouted at me again! We''re not in the office, that means he''s not my boss right now. "You want me to shut up? Gabriel, how could I? I''m so hungry! You said it''s a lunch meeting. How can a lunch meeting turn into spying on your ex? Oh, God! I wish I could eat my lunch now with Sandy!" See? I also know how to raise my voice. "I''m sorry." he softened his voice as he looked at me. I arched an eyebrow and rolled my eyes on him. I don''t care. My babies are now crying inside. "I promise I''ll feed you, just this once, please?" My whole body instantly turned to him. Did I hear it right? Did he just mention the word ''please''? "Did... did you just..." N?velDrama.Org (C) content. "What?" he asked waiting for my next word. But I remember thest time when he smiled at me for the first time and I asked him about it, he turned back into being an iceman and zombie again, so this time I held my tongue. "Nothing. I mean, don''t you feel hungry? They just entered the restaurant, for sure they''re going to eat. Maybe you also want to go inside and sit on the table while you watch them and while I feed my babies." "Feed your babies?" "Oh, I mean, my intestines! You know, therge and small intestines." and I smiled at him. Bingo! He also smiled. -''Oh God!''- "Hmm.. what should I call this day? A miracle or a miracle or another miracle?" I said dreamily. I didn''t notice I asked it aloud. He was about to open the door when he heard me. "What? What miracle?" "Huh? Miracle?" "You said miracle, miracle and another miracle. What''s that?" -''Ohh shit! Madi!''- "Uhm..." I giggled nervously. "Don''t mind me, Sir. I''m just hungry." I waved my right hand in the air before opening the car door. I didn''t hear the words he muttered after getting out of the car. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * "Madi," he called my name when we were about to enter the restaurant. I looked at him and was about to speak... "Love." "Ohh.. yes love." I smiled as I remembered our situation. Yeah, the real reason for this ''love'' thing. But a shiver went through all my nerves when he held my hand and closed the distance between our fingers as we walked inside. We were greeted by the waiters and they guided us into the vacant space. We spotted the table where his ex--- what was her name again? Ahh, Stacey and her boyfriend Ray. We sat on the table which was just a few steps away from them. He continued to watch them while I tried my very best to choose the best food from the menu. "Good afternoon Ma''am, good afternoon Sir, can I take your order, please?" "Hi, Ezra," I said smiling at the waiter. His name was written on his namete. He also smiled at me. And wow-wow he has two cute dimples on his cheeks. I don''t know, but I''m very attracted to people who have dimples. I continued to smile as I gave him my orders, but when I looked at the person who caused my stomach growl, I realized that he''s no longer staring at the two lovebirds but to me. He''s now ring at me. "Love, are you done?" I asked with a double meaning, but just frowned. I turned back to the waiter who''s just watching us. "Ahm, Ezra, you can now get my orders, we''ll just call you if my boyfriend is ready to order." I smiled again. "Wait!" Gabriel''s frown deepened as he gave his order to the confused waiter. Why? Is it because I was in my all-out-smile, while the grumpy head in front of me almost ate him alive? When the poor waiter had already left, he started his grumpy speech. "What was that?" his eyebrows almost touched. "What?" "What did you mean by I''m done?" "If you''re done! If you''re done ring at the two or done picking your orders. But since you''re done with both, just ignore it." "And what was that smile? You''re flirting with the waiter!" he whispered-yelled at me while his eyes looked like boring holes all over my whole. -''flirting? What is this... d¨¦j¨¤ vu?''- "Flirting? Excuse me, ''love'', but I didn''t flirt with that waiter." I emphasized the word love. "Why did you know his name?" And with that, I reallyughed at his question. "Is there anything funny about my question?" He asked seriously, but I just shook my head and continuedughing. "D¨¦j¨¤ vu, love. Do you know what d¨¦j¨¤ vu is? This scene has already happened before. You said I was flirting with the waiter and you asked me how I knew his name and I will answer you, ''it''s because his name was written on his namete." I noticed that his lips curled into a smile and after a while, he alsoughed with me. I wanted to stop and seize the moment because this is the first time heughed with me. But I know if I do, he will stop too and keep being cold again, especially that we''re in the same restaurant as his ex. And as weughed, we didn''t notice that some people were now watching us, some with amusement in their eyes, but others with irritation including the two people which was the reason why we''re here. Chapter 21: I looked like a fool Chapter 21: I looked like a fool When our food arrived, we started eating. Well, I dug first as I was really hungry. I chose not to talk for a while and continue eating my food. "Love.." I heard him calling me, but I chose to ignore him. "Love.." "Hmm?" I looked at him as I swallowed my food. He chuckled a bit when he saw my serious expression. "Are you really that hungry?" he asked amused. "Don''t ask me that question, Gabriel, it''s your fault!" I red at him as I brought the slice of steak to my mouth. "Do you want some more?" I don''t know if he''s just teasing me or what, but let''s see. "Why? Are you willing to give me your food?" He smiled before nodding. "Sure. Wait a minute," he said and started slicing the rest onto his te. "Hey, I''m just kidding." "Well, I''m not." he put all the sliced steaks on my te. "Don''t you like the food?" I asked him as I resumed eating. "Nope. They''re good." "So, why did you give me?" "Because you asked for it." "Excuse me! I didn''t ask you to give me your food." "Come here," he said pointing to something which I didn''t get. "What do you mean?" "Sit down next to me," he said not looking at me, but at the two who are now walking towards our direction. And in an instant, Gabriel is on my side with his chair.. but the most I didn''t expect him to do, he pulled me and kissed me on the lips. -''Oh God!''- N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. I know it''s for an act, but I don''t understand why I feel excited inside. I kissed him back. At first, it was just a light kiss, but it got deeper as soon I let his tongue invade my mouth. He held the back of my neck as he kissed me deeply. And then there''s a figure behind him that caught my attention and I pushed him lightly. Our breaths mingled as he presses his forehead to mine. I don''t know if he too noticed the two figures behind him, but as for my peace of mind, I just thought he knew about it and he was just acting so sweet right at the moment. He kissed me on my forehead before saying the next word a little loudly. "I love you." Then I realized... yeah, he was just acting. I closed my eyes for a while as I gulped the lump that had formed in my throat. "I love you too." I said returning his smile. He caressed my face before he turned to look at Stacey. I just sighed when he held my hand under the table. "Gabriel," Stacey called his name. Ray was no longer beside her. "Stacey." he greeted her casually. "You''re also here, what a coincidence. Are you alone?" and he smiled at her. -''Huh! Coincidence your face!''- I tried not to roll my eyes. "Can I talk to you, Gabi... in private?" My eyebrow arched automatically. ''Gabi''? And what''s the other one? ''In private''? He was about to get but I held his hand tightly under the table. He nced at me with a question written on his eyes. I smiled at him, silently giving him a signal not to go with her but the bitch open her mouth again. "Don''t worry, Miss, I won''t eat your boyfriend." her smile has a hint of evilness. I smiled back at her. So, she already forgot my name, huh? "Miss, I have my name. It''s Madi. I want you to remember that, so the next time our paths cross, you know who I am. And about my ''fiance'', I don''t have to worry if you want to talk to him. I trust him. I know he won''t cheat on me.. right love?" I didn''t miss how the emotions shifted on his eyes, from confusion to amusement. "Of course, love," he said holding my hands firmly. "I love you." I looked into his eyes and before he could answer, I kissed him on the lips. His mouth formed an ''O'' shape. And when heposed himself, he smiled before kissing me lightly and quickly kiss on my lips. "I love you, too. I''ll be back in a minute," he said before getting up going with his ex--- ex in his life but not in his heart. Then I was left alone at our table. I don''t know what is this feeling is, I don''t know how to exin. Why do I feel affected when he goes with her? There''s a sudden heaviness in my chest. I sighed when I looked at the food on the table. How could I eat this food, when I''ve already lost my appetite? I called the waiter and asked him to pack the remaining food. I know it will only go to waste if I leave them here. There were a lot of homeless people on the streets who can''t buy food and any meals for the day, so why should I let this food end up for rats and cockroaches? When the waiter returned, he has now packed food and the bill. I took my card from my wallet and give it to him. He came back again with my card and receipt. I decided to wait for Gabriel in the car because I don''t want to wait for him inside without doing anything. So with the food In my hands, I walked towards the exit, but to my surprise, I saw the man I was waiting for with his ex--- kissing in one of the corners of the restaurant. I blinked several times to clear my thoughts. -''Come on, Madi, just go and ignore them''- And that''s what I did. I immediately walked towards the exit and sighed loudly as I tried to calm my nerves. Maybe, what they were doing will take some time, so I decided to walk on the busy streets near the restaurant. I have my bag, my phone and my wallet in me, so I can go back to the office anytime or go anywhere to clear my mind. Why do I feel these things? Why am I feeling hurt? I shouldn''t feel this way. He''s not my boyfriend, forgodsake! As I continued to walk, I found an old man sleeping on the sidewalk. I smiled as walked towards him. I didn''t disturb his sleep, I just put the paper bag on his side so when he wakes up, he will notice it. I heard my phone ring inside my bag and when I checked who the caller, it''s him. I just smiled bitterly and put it on silent mode before putting it back inside my bag. I called a taxi and gave him the address of the WEC building. I don''t know how many times I sighed when I was inside the cab until we reached the building. I gave the driver my payment and told him to keep the change. I walked towards the entrance, with my phone still vibrating. I don''t know how could I exin this to him, but I think he wouldn''t even care about this because he''s now with his beloved ex. Now I know exactly what I felt when I saw them... kissing. Disappointed. Why? Because we''re acting as girlfriend and boyfriend, a sweet couple. He kissed me in front of her and I even told that bitch Stacey, that he wouldn''t cheat on me, but then I saw them kissing? What was that? I looked like a fool. Yeah... I am just fooling myself with this deal. I gave my best acting in this deal. I lost my first kiss, I got a boyfriend in an instant, someone to call ''love'' and to say I love you. How I wish he''d warned me before he kissing her, so I can take back what I said earlier. Chapter 22: Future Mrs. Wilsons Chapter 22: Future Mrs. Wilsons "Hey, you! You left me hanging on your story!" Sandy''s booming voice bounced around the four corners of my office. I left my focus on the monitor to look at her. Although we''re both disappointed in a different situation, I still need topose myself not to show her how upset I am. "It''s not my fault, you know!" "Hmph!" she rolled her eyes and sat on the chair in front of my desk. "So, what happened to your lunch meeting?" "Well, it''s fine. They just talked about business and the project." I shrugged avoiding her gaze. I don''t want her to suspect that I''m just lying. The disappointment I have for now is something I just want to keep to myself. "I see. By the way, why are you here so early, where''s Mr Wilsons?" "I left him at the restaurant," I answered casually. "You left him, but why?" "Uhm.. he still busy, so I just took a cab back here, besides they don''t need me there." "So, why did he take you?" "I don''t know, maybe to listen to some important details. Ahm... Sandy, do you remember Jamie, my tmate?" I asked to change the subject. I don''t know how long it can take me not to look her in the eye. "Yeah. The bank manager, right?" "Uhuh. She''s about to move out, I''m not sure if tomorrow or the next day. Uhm.. do you want to share an apartment with me?" "Oh, sure, why not? That''s great! Just inform me when I have to get all my stuff. Yay! This is so exciting!" "Ms Davis!" We both snapped to where the mad and cold voiceing from. And there he stood, Mr Gabriel Wilsons himself wearing his signature demeanour... cold, rude and arrogant. His eyes were fixed on me. And we never got a chance to greet him when he spoke again. "In my office, now!" And without any second, he disappeared from our sight. "What happened to him, Madi? His nostrils were ring!" Sandy''s question, her eyes were wide as saucers. Actually, I already knew the reason, but I just shrugged my shoulders. "I don''t know. You know your boss is kinda bipr, so don''t be amazed." I cleaned up some mess on my table. "Aren''t you afraid of him?" I looked at her and smiled. "Why would I? He''s not a monster, he won''t eat me alive and he won''t even bite." "Oh yeah, because he''s now your boyfr-----" "Sandy!" I red at her. "What?" "Go to your office now if you don''t want to lose your job!" "Aww! Mrs Wilsons?" "Sandy Agur!" And she ran outside whileughing at me. -''Mrs. Wilsons.''- I smiled bitterly at the thought. I sighed before deciding to follow him to his office. I knocked three times before pushing the door. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. I found him standing near therge ss window behind his desk, focused on the outside view while both hands were in his pockets. My heels were clicking on the white-tiled floor as I walked over to his desk. "Mr Wilsons." "Where have you been? I''ve been calling you since I left the restaurant, but you haven''t answered any of my calls!" he turned around and walked in front of me, without taking his hands out of his pockets. I gulped when I saw how serious his face was and how his eyes were boring holes in mine. "I turned it into silence when we left the office, so I didn''t hear your call. And I thought you no longer need me there, so I decided to go back." I answered casually. "What do you mean I no longer need you there? What happened to you? Didn''t I tell you to wait for me?" Thanks to the soundproofing system in his office, I don''t have to worry if anyone outside his office might hear him. They would certainly think something is going on between us. Because by the way, he raised his voice, he sounded like my husband yelling at me because I left him at the restaurant. "I did." I just said shrugging. "Then where were you when I got back? I asked the waiter and he said you already paid the bills! Why did you do that?" "Why did I pay the bills? Because I---" "Why did you leave?" "Ohh, that one? As I said, I thought you no longer need me. I saw you and your ex kissing, so I thought I had to go back because I felt like a third wheel between you two." I don''t know how I made it sound so casual despite the heaviness I felt inside. "You saw us?" he seemed surprised. But Iughed at his expression. It pained me to think about what happened, but I managed to show the opposite. "Yes, and for paying the bills, it''s okay. Don''t worry about it." I waved my hand to show him it''s really fine. "Madi, it''s not what it looks like. The kiss you saw..." he held both my shoulders, but I pulled away from his grasp. "Hey Gab, you don''t need to exin. I understand." I said with a slight chuckle. "It''s just that, you know, I wished you''d warn me before kissing me or at least before kissing her. I have no problem with it..." -''Liar!''- I heard my heart scream. ".... it''s just the word I gave to your ex. I seemed a little stupid earlier, you know. I was so proud when I said you won''t cheat on me and when you turned around you''re already kissing her." "Madi, listen, I didn''t kiss her. She''s the one who kissed me but I pushed her." I wanted tough at our current situation. We looked like a real couple, where the wife found her husband kissing his ex-girlfriend and the husband was now trying to exin that his ex-girlfriend was the one who kissed him. "Gab, wait! Whether you kissed her or she kissed you and you kissed her back or not, it''s nothing to me. You loved her, right? So it''s okay, we''re just pretending here, remember?" -''Liars go to hell.''- "I just want you to warn me next time, so I can put myself in the right ce where I won''t look stupid. "Madi---" "Gab, it''s okay, I promise. Let''s just forget about this." I need tough even if it''s fake so I can convince him and more myself that it''s really okay. "So, what happened between you two? How about Ray, did he also know she talked to you?" "No," he said as he walked to his chair. "Why did she kiss you?" He looked at me when the question came out of my mouth. "Ohh, I''m sorry. I''m just curious." "She wanted to go back." I stopped breathing for a second. "Go back to where?" "She wanted us to get back together!" he said gripping the ballpen on top of his desk tightly -''I''m sorry for you .. ballpen.''- "Great! Then we don''t have to continue this deal! We don''t have to pretend anymore!" how terrible actress I am if I happened to be one. "No!" he looked at me as if the things I said were something stupid. "We will continue the n!" and he gripped the ballpen again. "But why do we have to continue this if she''s now willing toe back to you? Isn''t it the perfect opportunity to get her back? You don''t need to---" "No, Madi! I''ve already set this n. And how do I know if she''s willing to leave her boyfriend in just one kiss? I have to make sure everything is going into ce before I stop!" I was speechless for a few seconds. Somehow, I pray this would end very soon so I no longer need to find out this new feeling that has started to grow inside. "Okay. Just inform me about the next n." I said nodding. "By the weekend, we will go to my parents'' house." "What?" my eyes widened in surprise. Parents? His parents? "Yes. We already talked about this, right? I will introduce you to them as my girlfriend and I will propose to you in front of them too." "Y-Yeah, but isn''t it too soon?" "Madi, I need to grab every possible opportunity thates my way, especially that Stacey is just around." "Okay, but why do you have to propose? Why do we still have to get married?" "Madi, I''ve already exined this to you." "Yeah. But exin it again because I don''t get it! Why do you have to marry me if she''s here right now and you said she wanted you and her to get back together?" While I was babbling my questions, he got up and walked over to me. "Isn''t that a waste of time? You''re going to spend---" My words died in mid-air when he suddenly kissed me. He cupped my face with both hands so I couldn''t protest. My eyes widened as he stopped and pulled back. "Gabri---" I didn''t even finish mentioning his name when he kissed me again and this time in a passionate way. But someone knocks on the door so I pushed him. "Gabriel!" I red at him but he just smirked at me. "A way to stop you from rambling words, future Mrs Wilsons." "Huh!" my jaws dropped with his words. The second time I heard those words after Sandy. "Come in!" How dare this man! My eyes widened again and I have to fix myself before someone from outside enter the door. He turned back to his chair with a smirk while I was left fixing my hair and ring at him. And after a while, the door opened and the manager of finance came to our view. "Good afternoon Mr Wilsons, Ms Davis." he greeted us both with a warm smile, so I did the same. When I looked back at the man behind the desk, he now has his old signature self. Cold and serious. And I found it a better excuse to go back to my office. "Excuse me, Sir. I''ll go back to my desk in case you have nothing to do for me." "Sure, Ms Davis." He said in his cold voice and since the manager isn''t looking at me but to him, I raised my eyebrow and rolled my eyes at him. I smiled when I know he can''t change his facial expression. He can''t smirk or do anything because there''s someone inside watching him and can see his naughty Gabriel side---who always kiss his assistant to stop her from babbling. Chapter 23: Does it hurt? Chapter 23: Does it hurt? "Madi." N?velDrama.Org (C) content. I heard someone call my name and when I turned around I saw Troy waving his hand on me. I just smiled at him. "My good heavens, Madi! Why is he here?" asked by an annoyed Sandy next to me. We''re having our thirty-minute coffee break at the cafeteria. Actually, I''m used to not having this second break of the day, but Sandy has another reason why she dragged me here, so I had no choice. "Because this is a cafeteria and the same time as his break," I saidughing at her crumpled face. "Hi, Madi." Troy was now in front of us and sat on the vacant chair. "Hi Troy, how are you?" I asked him smiling, but I can also see out of the corner of my eye how Sandy gave him a hard stare. "Well, it''s even better, especially now that I saw you." and he winked at me that made me smile more. Sandy muttered something under her breath but I could still hear it. "Old style! Hello, I''m also here." "Oh, hi Sandy." "Wow, you noticed me, congrattions! You still have a clear vision," she said faking her smile, so I kicked her leg under the table. Troy just scratched the back of his neck. "Troy, can I have a favor?" she blurted out after a while. "Yeah, sure, anything," Troy answered having no idea what would Sandy ask him for. "Are you sure I can ask anything?" "Huh? Y-Yeah, as long as I can," he said scratching the back of his neck again. I''m sure he''s doubting himself at the moment. "Okay, can you please change your seat on the other chair, I mean can you just sit on the other table?" "Huh?" his mouth dropped, maybe he didn''t expect it would be Sandy''s favor. "Sandy?" I nudged her arm but she just ignored me. "It''s just that Madi and I have something important to discuss with. You know, girly things, girly issues and problems." "Oh, okay," he said with shoulders down. "Thank you, Troy." "No problem." he stood up and took his snacks not before smiling at me. "Madi, see you around." I just nodded and smiled. When he''s finally out of our sight, Sandy let out a loud sigh. "You''re such a bitch." I eximed as I lightly tapped her arm. "Well, isn''t that a good idea? Besides, the reason I pulled you here is for you to share your unfinished story, which has always been cut by a certain someone!" "Okay, fine," I said smiling and shaking my head. "So, where are we?" She asked. "At the cafeteria." Iughed when she red at me. "Okay, okay." I raised my hands in surrender position and started to tell her everything. From the time I saw Stacey inside the boutique, then next was Gabriel, to the coffee and the kiss. "And then at night---" "Wait! He... He kissed you?" her eyes were wide open like saucers. I nodded. "Oh my God, Madi! You''re such a lucky bitch!" she squealed loudly which caught the attention of some employees. "Your voice, Sandy!" I whispered-yelled at her. "I can''t believe this! I mean the cold-hearted ''Mr Wilsons'' kissed you?" she whispered the part of his name. "You''re so lucky, girl. I can''t imagine what would be his fans club reactions, especially their bitchy leader Jenny and her second-inmand Ailene. Haha." And weughed together. But after a while, when she finally recovers, she continued her interview again. "So, how was his ex reaction when he kissed you in front of her?" "Well, based on her reaction, she can''t believe he''s got a new girlfriend now." "Really? By the way, what does she look like? A.pretty, b.gorgeous, c.sophisticated, d.like a model, or e, all of the above?" "E." "E?" "All of the above." "Ohh... poor pretty Madi, tsk.tsk.tsk." she leaned back in her seat, shaking her head. "And how did my name suddenly rte to her?" I asked her, wondering. "Ohh.. because that''s maybe the reasons why ''your'' boyfriend---" "Fake." "Fake boyfriend'' as you were saying, still can''t move on from his pretty ex-fiancee." "Huh? I highly doubt that! I mean, just because of physical appearance?" "Then, who knows what his real reason was." She shrugged. "Because he still loves her. That''s it." "Ahh... does it hurt?" she asked, making a sad face. I don''t know if she''s just teasing me or what... "What? What do you mean if it hurts?" "The truth that he''s still in love with his ex. Does it hurt?" "Does it hurt who? I don''t get it." "You. Does it hurt you? My God, so slow." she rolled her eyes and it was only then I realized that I was the one she''s referring to. "Oh my God, Sandy! No, of course not! Where did you get that idea?" I know my face has gone from shocked to nervous. Nervous to know if it''s true and for her to know she was right. She didn''t answer my question, she just shrugged. "So, what happened next?" she asked again after a while. "She picked me up and we discussed some matters in the restaurant." "He even picked you up and you had a date?" "It wasn''t a date, Sandy. It''s just like the first time we talked, a boss and an assistant talk." "Wow! Since when it happened a boss took his assistant to a restaurant and ate ''alone'', talked about ''something'' that wasn''t rted to their work?" "Uhm... let''s just say it was just a casual talk!" I tried to defend myself. "Ohh... casual talk? Okay, but since when a boss and his assistant ate in a restaurant and discussed their engagement and wedding, became a casual talk? Haha, very funny! Madi, you''re not aedian, so don''t make meugh." but sheughed instead. "Haha... yeah, very funny!" I faked myugh. "Tell me, when are you going to stop before I decide not to invite you to my apartment?" and it''s my turn tough when herughter has died and she scrunched up her face. "See? Such an obedient child. Good job." "I hate you!" she huffed as she folded her hands over her chest. We finished our coffee break in a minute before we heading back to our offices again. I decided to skip some information and just keep it to myself. I don''t want her to know that I''m now starting to get confused with how I feel. Maybe someday, when everything''s already clear, I''ll be ready to share it. Chapter 24: A classmate from college Chapter 24: A ssmate from college Madi''s POV: "Where are you going?" "To the marketing department," I answered Sandy''s question when we met at the elevator. "Why?" "I''m going to get some files." "Okay. Lunchter?" "Sure." I went into the lift and pressed the floor of the marketing department. There were some employees inside who knew me and they smiled in recognition. I smiled back before facing the stainless door again. After getting some documents requested by our boss himself, I now return to the Executive floor. While I was. waiting for the elevator door to open, someone on has called my name. "Madielyn Davis?" I turned and saw a very familiar man approaching with a genuine smile on his face. "Madi." When he''s already in front of me, I finally recognized his face. "Greg? Greg Anderson!" I squealed in excitement. He''s one of my ssmates from college. "What are you doing here?" "The same question I was about to ask you." he smiled and his two cute dimples appeared on his face. "Well, I''m working here. What about you? Wow! It''s been a long time, you''ve changed a lot!" I can''t believe who I was seeing at the moment. From a skinny and shy guy in college to now muscr and good looking man. He was one of my bestpanions back then. "I can say the same. Look at you, you look so beautiful today." "Ahh.. so are you saying I wasn''t beautiful before?" I yfully narrowed my eyes. "Oh no, no. What I''m saying is that you are more beautiful today. You look gorgeous to be exact." I smiled as I rolled my eyes. "Tss! What a sweet talk, Greg." N?velDrama.Org (C) content. "But I''m serious!" he chuckled at myment. We were bothughing when we entered the elevator. There were a few employees inside who also smiled at us. "By the way, you haven''t answered my question yet. What are you doing here?" "Oh, sorry. I''m going to meet my cousin. He works here too." "Wow! Really? From what department or which floor?" "Uhm... executive." "Nice! Big time!" I nudged him on the arm and he justughed again. "How about you, which floor are you in?" "The same as your cousin." I winked at him as I proudly answered his question. "That is what we called a real big-time, Madi! Nice, my friend from college is working at thergest company in Chicago and take note, on the executive floor!" "Of course." I grinned proudly. "I am ''Madi''.. the ever beautiful and confident Madi. What do you expect?" Take note, I had to wait for all the remaining employees to get out of the elevator, before throwing that line. "Oh my! You haven''t changed. You''re the same Madi I knew in college. And yeah, the ever proud and narcissistic Madi that I''ve ever known." he saidughing and clutching his stomach. The elevator stopped at our designated floor, but before stepping out, I gave him a fake scowl. "I hate you! I''m not narcissistic! I''m just being myself, duh!" I tried not to be swayed by his infectious laugh. "Yeah, yeah, of course, you''re not!" but heughed again andter on, I also found myselfughing with him. "Wait, Madi! We both have a degree in restaurant and foodservice management, how did you manage to work in the executive department?" "I also took a business course." "I see. But how about your own business?" I bit my lip as I turned to face him. "Uhm... actually Greg, no one in thispany knew that I also have my own business too. I didn''t mention my first course when I applied here." "Okay, but business is apetitive world, Madi. How did you get hired?" "Oh crap! Don''t you believe in my talent? I thought we were friends? I told you--- ouch!" He pinched my cheek. "Yeah, I know what you''re going to say. That you are Madi and h..h..h.." and he gave me a wittyugh. "What''s your position by the way?" he asked when he''s done fromughing. "I am a PA here. Personal Assistant to the CEO." I smiled not noticing that the person I was talking to stopped in his tracks after hearing my answer. "Hey! Why did you stop walking?" I turned around to see him stuck on his feet. "Y-You mean PA.. as in the CEO''s personal assistant?" he asked me again as if he couldn''t believe my current position. "Yes. Why?" "N-Nothing. So, you''re the assistant of the famous Gabriel Wilsons." "Yup," I said nodding. "Well... he''s my cousin." "What?" my eyes widened and the documents from my hands fell and scattered on the tiled-floor. "Oops!" I immediately bent down to pick up the papers one by one but he copied what I did and helped me get the files from the floor. "Greg..." I bit my lip as I looked at him. I don''t know how to start my sentence, but I think he already knew what I''m about to say. "Don''t worry Madi, your secret is safe with me." he smiled and helped me to stand up. "Thank you. Uhm... you said he''s your cousin, I mean Mr Wilsons, but why---" "Why am I not working here?" I nodded. "Well, maybe because this line is not for me. You see, I also took the same course as yours. But I chose to be the boss of my own business, rather than being employed and having a boss like the cold- hearted and serious Gabriel." I couldn''t help butugh at how he described his cousin. "I didn''t see you thest time I went here." "Ohh, I only started two months ago--- two and a half to be exact." "I see. By the way, I have to go. There''s something important I have to discuss with my cousin." "Okay. Thanks, Greg." "No problem. Uhm... Madi, did you change your number?" "No. I''m still using my old number," I said shaking my head. "Great. Can I call you... sometimes?" "Of course. Do you still remember Noelle and the other girls, George and Arielle? They''re now my managers." "Wow, wait! Managers, which means---" "Yes. I now have three restaurants." "Whoa! You really are the best, Madi. Can I have a free dinner sometimes?" he asked seriously, but I know he''s just kidding. "Sure, just go to Noelle''s outlet and she knows how to take care of you." I smiled wiggling my eyebrows. We always pushed them together, back in college. But Greg seems not to notice her beauty until we graduated. But they remained friends. Good friends "Tss! Madi.. you still remember that thing?" He asked smiling but you can see the disapproval on his eyes. "She had a huge crush on you back then. Why didn''t you court her?" "No problem. Uhm... Madi, did you change your number?" "No. I''m still using my old number," I said shaking my head. "Great. Can I call you... sometimes?" "Yeah. Remember Noelle and the other girls... George and Arielle? They''re now my managers." "Wow, wait! Managers... meaning---" "Yes. I now have three restaurants." "Whoa! You''re really the best, Madi. Can I have a free dinner sometimes?" he asked seriously, but I know he''s just kidding. "Sure, just go to Noelle''s outlet, and she knows how to take care of you." I smiled wiggling my eyebrows. We always pushed them together when we were in college, but Greg didn''t seem to have noticed her beauty until we graduated. But they remained friends. Good friends. "Tss! Madi, do you still remember that thing?" He asked smiling, but you can see the dislike in his eyes. "She had a huge crush on you back then. Why didn''t you court her?" "Because by that time, I also had a crush on someone, but she kept pushing me to date her friend." I bit my lip when he suddenly became serious. "I also had a huge feeling for that girl, but she also kept ignoring me." "Ohh... do I know her? I mean, her name?" I know he''s referring to me, but as he said, back in time, I wasn''t ready to have a boyfriend or have a rtionship so instead, I pushed him and Noelle to be a team. "Uhm... I''m not sure if you know her. Her name is Madi. Madielyn Davis. Have you already heard that name?" Iughed as he reallypleted my name. "Madi--- Oops! Hi, Sir Greg." I sighed in relief when Sandy came out of her office. -''Whew! Save by Sandy!''- "Hi, Sandy. How are you?" Greg greeted her back. "I''m doing fine, Sir. Uhm... are you here for Mr Wilsons?" "Yeah. I have something to discuss with him." "Ohh... okay," she said nodding, but when she looked at me, her eyes have a silent question. "Uhm... by the way, Madi, I have to go." he turned to me and he smiled. "I''ll send you a message." "Sure." I smiled back. He tapped Sandy''s arm before heading to the CEO''s office. And when he finally entered the door, I gasped as Sandy suddenly pushed me into my office. "Hey---" "Hey, you! How did you meet Mr. Anderson?" she red at me and put her hands on her hips. "Ohh... Greg?" "Wow! First name basis in an instant, girl?" her eyes widened a bit. And I chuckled when she raised an eyebrow and eyed me suspiciously. "Gosh, Madi! You''re screwing your boss and now you''re flirting with the cousin of the boss! Where is your conscience? You---ouch!" I pped her on the arm and couldn''t help butugh at her scrunched face. "Excuse me, Ms Agur, I''m not screwing my boss, the truth is that he''s the one screwing me and trapping me with this deal. And Greg-----" "Wow! First name basis again?" I yfully red at her. "Do you want me to p your soul?" "Haha... No, not my soul. You''re so harsh!" instead of being warned, she justughed more. "He''s my ssmate back in college." I said walking behind my desk. I put the folder on top of my table. "Tsk.Tsk.Tsk. There''s nothing topare with you, Madi." she started teasing me again. "What do you mean?" "The CEO is now your boyfriend---" "Sandy! It''s fake!" I threw her the crumpled paper I got from the side of the desk. "Fine! Whatever you may call him! But take note, you also have connections with his cousin, great!" "Oh, you''re crazy bitch! I told you he''s my ssmate in college." "Okay, from which course?" she sat on one of my visitor''s chair. "BS in restaurant and foodservice management." "Oh, so he knews about your business?" "Yup." "So what''s going to happen now? He''s our boss'' cousin, what about your secret?" "He said it''s safe with him." "Uhuh... I see. I bet he had a crush on you." She said raising an eyebrow. How did she know that? "You seemed so sure about that, huh?" "Of course! The way he looked at you. Tsk.Tsk.Tsk, Madi. It''s so obvious, hello. ''I''ll text you''." I chuckled when she mimicked his words. "You''re really crazy. Go back to your office! You''re just distracting me here." "Wow! I''m so shy.." "Get out, Sandy!" I red at her again. She stood up immediately, but to my surprise, she made a hand salute as she grinned widely. "Aye..aye.. Mrs Wilsons." and she ran towards the door with herughter echoing the corners of my office. "Sandy Agur! You''re so dead! Argh!" I tried to throw my ballpen at her back, but she''s too fast and it justnded to the floor. -''Crazy woman!''- I muttered under my breath, but honestly, I was alsoughing inside. Chapter 25: Take care of her for me Chapter 25: Take care of her for me Gabriel''s POV: "Hi bro." I smiled when I saw Greg''s smiling face walk into my office and make his way towards my desk. "Greg." I stood up to hug him. "What''s up, man?" I patted him on the back. "Well, still single, unlike you." he winked at me before taking a seat on one of my visitor''s chair. He''s my cousin on the mother''s side and my bestfriend since childhood, but his family moved from Chicago to Florida after we graduated high school from the same school. But our friendship never stopped there. We''ve shared everything, secrets including what happened with my past rtionship with Stacey and my n to get her back and make her suffer for what she did. "You know, it''s not a real rtionship." I shook my head and go back to my chair. "Okay, not a real rtionship, I see." he said nodding. "By the way, guess who I bumped with before I entered your office?" I scrunched my eyebrows. "Who?" "Your beautiful assistant. What''s her name again, ahh... Madi. She''s a nice and beautiful, man." "Don''t approach her again! Don''te near her or it''s better if you''d never talk to her!" I said in my serious tone. "Whoah! Jealous are we? I thought it was just a ''fake'' rtionship?" he asked grinning. "Yeah, it''s just fake, but still, I don''t want you to talk to her again." I avoided his stare when he raised his eyebrow. "But why.. I mean no harm, bro, and don''t worry, I just said she''s beautiful." "I know you too well, Greg." I leaned back in my seat. "Ohh, really Gabriel?" he also leaned in his seat. "Tsk.Tsk.Tsk. Can I ask you something, bro?" He suddenly became serious. "Sure. What is it?" I asked with my eyes fixed directly on him. "Why do you want to have Stacey back? Are you still in love with her?" "Tss! What kind of question is that? I''ve already told you my answer on that." "Yeah, but I want to know the real reason." "I told you, it''s just to punish her." "Okay," he brought his fingers to his chin. It''s his mannerism when he''s thinking about something serious. "But you said she asked you to get back together, right?" "Yes." I''ve already told him about thetest happenings between me and Stacey. "So, why do you have to continue your n with your PA? She seems nice and kind, bro. Don''t you think it''s unfair for her to be tied with this kind of arrangement?" "She''s willing to help, Greg. I''ve already offered money, but she didn''t take it." "Maybe because she has her own money, or maybe she doesn''t want to be one of your charity cases." he shrugged, but I frowned at him. "What do you mean she doesn''t want to be one of my charity cases? I don''t get it." "Well, she doesn''t want to call ''your slut'' if she epts the money. By the way, what was her reason for epting this deal?" "She said she loves challenges." "Ahh, okay, challenges." He repeated. "What a strong woman!. But it''s just a in reason why she epted this kind of a stupid deal! I hope she''d really thought about her decision again." he said nodding. "Greg, let me rify these things to you. Yes, things between me and Madi were just fake, but that doesn''t mean I''ll let you screw and y with her feelings. So, stop whatever you''re thinking of her." I said, looking him directly. But he justughed at me. "Ohh.. Gabriel, Gabriel. I''m not a monster, bro. And what did you say--- ''screw and y'' with her feelings? Are you sure you''re referring to me or are you just referring to yourself?" I formed my fists as I my eyes threw daggers in his direction. "Come on, bro. What if she falls in love with you or you fall in love with her in the process?" Iughed at his question. "That''s not gonna happen, Greg. She''s not my type." I said avoiding again his gaze. "Yeah, but sometimes the person you''re not looking for or not looking at all, is the same person you''re going to love the most unexpectedly. Because sometimes, we fall in love with the most unexpected person at the most unexpected time." I don''t know, but his words stuck me in my ce. "Wow! I didn''t know you''re a poet now, Greg." He just gave me a humorousugh. "Yeah, but can I ask you one more question? It''s not actually a question, it''s a favor this time." "Sure." "Can I date your assistant after you finished your deal with her?" I was taken aback by his question. I don''t know what to say or what my reaction will be. "Greg---" "I like her, bro." "Fuck you! You just met her earlier, and then now you''re telling me you like her?" I couldn''t help but raise my voice. N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "Gabriel, I''m not asking you for this favor right now. I said after your deal with her! And what is it with you if I like her? She''s just your ''fake'' girlfriend as you said, besides, she still your assistant and she will remain your assistant even after you get married, because the exact words came from you... ''fake and not real''." I didn''t say anything. I just took a deep breath and formed my fists under the table. But on the other hand, I thank God from above for making him my cousin and my bestfriend, because if not, I swear I''ve already punched him multiple times in the face. "Easy brother, I also know you too well. You don''t seem jealous." heughed and leaned again in his chair. "I''m not jealous, Greg!" I snapped, trying to calm myself down. I''m not jealous, he''s just kinda annoying. "Why are you here?" I asked a bit annoyed. "Well, I''m here to ask you to introduce me to your assistant, but since I''ve already met her, you no longer need to do it." he smirked. And I''ll lie to myself if I say I don''t get irritated. "So, since you''ve already met her, what can you say?" "She''s perfect." "I know." I proudly stated. "She''s perfect to be my girlfriend." he added grinning. "You better get out of this office before I forget that you''re my bestfriend!" I said as my smile dies. "Whoa!" he stood up immediately. "Bro... I''m your cousin too." "Yeah, and you should really leave now before I forget that you''re rted to me and you''ve been a part of my life!" I got up, ring at him. He took a step back one by one. "Wait! Can I get her number?" "No, you dickhead! She''ll be my wife, so back off!" "But you said it''s fake! She s just going to be your ''fake'' wife. So, I''m sorry, I''m still going to get her number!" he''s already at the door but he''s still grinning like an idiot. "Fuck you, Greg! Fuck you!" I''m starting to get really annoyed with him and regret my decision of telling him about Madi. "Gabriel, you''re getting too possessive, bro. Take it easy. Take care of her because someday, when your deal with her ends, I''ll take her by that time, whether you like it or not. Whether you approve of it or not, but for now, take care of her for me." And with that, he exited my office. I was left dumbfounded. Why did it seem like he already knew Madi? He seemed so sure he''s gonna take her from me. I sighed and shook my head to get those thoughts out of my mind. Chapter 26: Meeting his relatives Chapter 26: Meeting his rtives Madi''s POV: "Why do you have to pick me up? I can go to the airport by myself. I have my feet, you know?" I asked Gabriel for the third time this morning. We are going to visit his parents in Belleville. It''s 4 hours and 52 minutes of drive by a car, but he said we''ll take his private jet, so we can only take 47 of travel. "You know what, you should be thanking and notining. At least we can go together and we can save time." I just rolled my eyes. Do you know where he is right now? He''s in my room! Can you imagine your boss at work isn''t ashamed to barge into his assistant''s room! And he''s really sitting ''pretty'' on the edge of my bed. "And forgodsake, what are you doing inside my room? Who gave you permission to enter here?" I asked putting my hands on my waist. "You." he pointed his finger at me. "You opened your door, so I walked in. And love, I''m here to get your things." he chuckled andy on his back to tease me more. "Oh yeah, love, thank you so much." I rolled my eyes again, pushkng my suitcase to where he sits. "I''m done. Let''s go." He immediately got up and grabbed the suitcase, but he hadn''t yet reached the door when he turned around. "What''s inside of your bag? It''s so light." "Ohh love, you should be thanking instead ofining." I smiled as I mimicked what he said earlier. "Hello, it has four wheels so it''s easy to pull! duh!" I just said thest word to myself. "Yeah, I know it has four wheels! But I also know what''s really heavy or not!" And to my surprise, he put it down and without asking, he opened my bag. "What are you doing?" I asked him, trying to stop what he''s about to do. "I''m checking your bag, what else?" he asked me in ''duh'' tone. "But it''s my personal thing!" "And I''m not taking it, I''m just checking, okay? Who would know if you just packed your bikinis and lingeries that''s why it so light?" He said, checking my things one by one. But he only saw my shorts, shirts, dress, some girly stuff and some essories. I put my underwears under my clothes, so it''s not visible to his naked eyes. "Wow! well organised. I like it, love." he said grinning and suddenly ooked around. "Of course, because I am Madi--- I mean, I know how to organize all my things!" I was actually going to say ''of course, I am Madi'' as my favorite line, but I realized he''s not one of my friends who knows my naughty side. And thanks God, he didn''t notice that. "Really?" "I am a woman Mr. Wilsons, and a mature woman should know how to clean and organize her stuff before she can show her face in front of other people outside." "Wow, I didn''t know you have that in you. Where did you get that?" he asked with amusement visible in his eyes. "From my loving mother! Happy?" I narrowed my eyes on him. "Aren''t you going to close my bag!" I demanded frowning. "Hmm... I like that feisty side of yours, Mrs. Wilsons." he smirked and closed my bag. "Why do you call me that?" my heart started pounding inside my ribcage upon hearing those words from him. But he justughed at me and continued to pull my bag. "Because you''re gonna have that title two weeks from now, love." He opened the door and I followed him outside. I know he''s just teasing me, and I tried not to smile to show him I''m annoyed. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * "Do your parents know we''reing today?" I asked when we were finally seated in his private jet. He is sitting across my seat and because he has long legs, our knees almost touch every time we move. "There are lot of vacant seats here, but why did you choose to sit across from me? I can''t move my legs!" Iined when he identally brushed my right knee for the fourth time. He chuckled and settled into a morefortable position. -''Argh!''- "Which of your questions do you want me to answer first?" he asked still grinning. I rolled my eyes. I wish this side of him to be visible to all of his employees and all the people around him too. "The second one!" I crossed my arms over my chest. "Are you sure?" -''Haist! Forgodsake!''- "Yes!" "I want to sit here and watch you drool when you sleep." and he chuckled again. I was a bit surprise, so I just found myself looking at him with my mouth open. -''Huh! Did he just throw a joke? Wow!''- "Hey, I''m just kidding." And my mouth opened wider. "Wow! Did you just ..." remembering that he would change his mode again, I changed the question in my head. "Did you say drool?" "Yes." N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "I don''t drool!" "How do you know if you''re asleep?" "I know I don''t!" "Uhuh... let''s see." "Huh! No way! I won''t sleep then. It''s less than an hour to travel and I''ll y on my phone!" Heughed again. I wonder what''s going on with this man as he''s been smiling andughing all the time since this morning. He seems in a good mood. And no matter how I want to ask him, I''m holding back because I already know... he''s kinda bipr sometimes and I don''t want to sit here in our whole ride with a grumpy man in front of me. "Now, my first question! Do your parents know we''re on our way?" "Yes. I already told them and they''re very excited to see you. So be ready for some questions and answers, especially with my sister." "You have a sister?" I repeated, surprised. "Yes, younger than me. She''s working in a detective agency." My eyes widened for his information. "Oh my! If she''s working in a detective agency, she might---" "No, love. Rx okay? We will y our role and answer all her questions so that she will not suspect anything and neither does my mom." I sighed and leaned back to my seat. "That''s why I''m telling you to call me love from now on." Take note, he''s grinning again. "Hehe." I said teasingly before flipping my hair as I rolled my eyes. We already talked about our ''fake story'' when we were still in his car and he gave me the ball, so it''s up to me how would I y the roleter. A naughty thoughts came into my head and an evil smile formed on my lips as I looked in his direction. He frowned but didn''t say anything. -''Be ready, my love''- Chapter 27: Facing his family Chapter 27: Facing his family Madi''s POV: We haven''t gotten out of the car yet, but we were already surrounded by his rtives. "Stay here," he said before opening his car door. "Huh?" I didn''t understand what he said. "I said stay here. I''ll open the door for you." "Ohh... okay," I said nodding. -''Slow.''- I murmured to myself. But as soon as he exited the car, he was pulled and hugged by five boys and four girls and let''s add the two cute little boy and girl. Maybe they are siblings. I waited for him to open my door, but he''s now busy exchanging his stories with the boys while the girls were also waiting for him to open door. "Okay, let''s start this game, Madi. Breathe in, breathe out... you can do this. You are Madi, the ever beautiful, confident and strong Madi." I exhaled loudly before deciding to push the door. And then all eyes were instantly turned to me. And I smiled,pletely ignoring Gabriel''s hard gaze. "Hi," I said looking at them one by one. "Oh my! You''re so beautiful, honey." and I didn''t wait any second and all of them were in front of me. I bet the one who''s hugging me at the moment is his mother. They have the same eye color and shape of lips. "Gabriel,e on, introduce us to your beautiful woman here." the woman called him but not looking anywhere but me. And he walked over to me and put his hand on my lower back. "Didn''t I tell you to stay and I''ll open the door for you?" he whispered in my ear that sent goosebumps all over my body. I gripped his jacket tight, but still managed to put on my sweetest smile. "Ma, Dad, this is Madi, my girlfriend." He said smiling at everyone. Sometimes I hate myself for being a mind reader because I can read easily if he''s just lying or not or if his smile is genuine or fake. "Love, this is my Mom, Beth and my Dad Jonas." "Don''t forget me!" "And this is my sister Nancy." he referred to the woman in her early twenties. "Finally Brother! You met someone more beautiful than your sluty ex-girlfriend!" she said smiling and hugged me too. But we have noticed that almost all the people around us stopped in their tracks and some were ring at her. "Oops! I''m sorry. I''m just excited you finally moved on." "Nancy!" Her mother red at her. -''Awkward.''- "I''m sorry, okay." she made a peace sign on using her two fingers. "By the way Madi, I''m so excited to finally meet you. My brother here can''t stop talking about you for the past couple of months." she took my hands and I can say that she''s really happy. Maybe we will get along with each other, I think she also has a bubbly personality. "I''m looking forward to it," I said smiling. "Madi, I''m so happy you came into my son''s life. He''s changed a lot since he started talking about you." Mr Wilsons the senior, pulled me out of Gabriel''s hold and hugged me. I wanted tough at his statement. Yeah, your son has changed a lot since he asked me to y as his girlfriend to get his ex back. "He talks about me?" I asked raising my eyebrow on my ''boyfriend''. "Yes. A lot---" "Nancy!" Gabriel red at her and she stopped immediately. "Uhm... by the way love, this is Uncle James and his wife, Aunt Morgan. And the couple from their left side is Uncle John and his wife Aunt Cindy." I went to them and kissed them one by one. They were all looking at me like I was an alien... not in a bad way... but in a positive way. Maybe they were all surprised that their nephew had already moved on from his ex. Tsk.tsk.tsk. little did they know. "If you noticed, love, my uncles and my dad start their name with the letter J. Well, they were all siblings and my two Aunts too." I got a little confused. "What? I - I didn''t get what you mean." "Okay." he breathed. "My Dad, Uncle James and Uncle Jhon were brothers while Aunt Morgan and Aunt Cindy were also sisters, except my Mom." "Oh, I see." I nodded. "And these are my cousins, Phillip and Justine, Uncle James kids, and these two cute little girl and boy." he bent his knees to hugged the two children. "These are Savahna and Christian, they are twins, fraternal. And they are Aunt Cindy and Uncle Jhon''s children." "Hi Sav, Hi Chris, how are you?" I asked the two of them and they both kissed me on the cheeks. "We''re fine," Chris answered with a toothy smile. "Madi, will you marry Gabi too? But please, don''t leave him like what the bitch did." My eyes widened and I gulped with what has Savahna said. And then suddenly, all their eyes turned back to Nancy. I giggled when she red at the two kids. "What? Why are you looking at me? I''m not doing anything!" she defended herself. "Sav, don''t say that again. That''s a bad word, okay?" Aunt Cindy took Sav''s hands. "But it''s true mommy. We saw how that sluty-bitch pped Gabi!" We all gasped at Chris'' words. He actually defended his sister. "My God, Nancy! What were you putting on the kids mind?" Mrs Wilsons pinched her arm. "Ma, I told you, I''m not doing anything." she rubbed her sore arm. "Okay guys, let''s just continue this inside. For sure Gabriel and Madi were exhausted from their rides here." "Yeah, and we''ve already cooked for lunch, so Gabriel, after showing Madi her room, please go down to the kitchen so we can start eating. "Yes, Ma, let''s go love." he held my hand and pulled me inside. "Wait! What about our bags?" I stopped walking. "Love, don''t worry about them, the maids will bring them to our room." and he pulled me again. "Which room?" I asked confused. "My room, but now, it will be our room." he winked at me. My face turned horrified by the thoughts. "No! Show me my room!" I whispered-yelled at him. "I''m sorry, my love, but I think all the guestrooms were fully upied by my Aunts and Uncles, and don''t forget my cousins." We entered a room painted and furnished in color ck, gray, cream and blue. "This is my room." -''I know because the colors suit your personality well. Cold and serious.''- I murmured only to myself. I looked around and my gazended on the picture frame on his bedside table. And I gulped from the sudden inexplicable pain I felt inside after seeing who was on the picture. It''s him and his ex Stacey, kissing... with a beautiful sunset as their background. I averted my eyes away from the frame, but that was the time he followed where my eyes were looking. "I''m sorry, it''s been a year since I slept here, I haven''t noticed this photo is still here." he took the photo frame and tossed it on the bin near the door. I half smiled and shook my head. "You don''t need to exin, Gab. It''s your room, it''s your life, it''s your decision and your choices. And by the way, I''m going to sleep on the couch." I pointed the L-shaped sofa in front of his 50 or 55 inches TV hanging on the wall. "No! What are you talking about? You won''t sleep there, you will sleep with me." "Huh! No way!" I walked towards the door. It''s okay to have a conversation with his family and sister rather being in the same room with this naughty side of him. This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org. He followed me outside and since his room was the first room in the hallway, you can already see the staircase. "Hey, you''re just thinking naughty, love. Don''t worry, I won''t touch you unless you ask me, too." And he laughed with his carefreeughter. "Pervert!" we''re now at the beginning of the steps of the long and high stairs. "I will not sleep next to you! If you want you can sleep on the couch and I''ll take your bed." I said wiggling my eyebrows. We''ve started taking steps down the stairs and because we''re busy bickering on who will go to sleep where we both didn''t notice the amused stares of the people downstairs. "No way, love! You said, it''s my room, my life, my decision and my choices, so I want you to sleep next to me." and he startedughing again. "No!" I red at him. "Yes, my love!" "No!" "Yes! "No your---" and I didn''t finish my sentence when he pulled me and kissed me right after ourst step down the stairs. We''re still oblivious of the people in the living room waiting for us to go to the kitchen. And there was a look of surprise and pure happiness. Chapter 28: Their story Chapter 28: Their story Nancy''s POV: "I am nning to have a family pic---" We all looked at my mom when she suddenly stopped talking. "Do you hear that?" she asked instead. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. At first, we''re all confused about what she''s asking about, butter on, we understand why she has stopped. "No way, love! You said it''s my room, it''s my life and it''s my decision, so I want you to sleep next to me." We all heard Gabrielugh. All our eyes snapped from where his voice wasing from and then we saw them arguing from the top of the stairs and as they went down. "No!" It''s Madi. "Yes, my love!" "No!" "Yes!" And he chuckled again. "Oh my God, honey! Can you see that?" my mom asked my dad as tears were forming in her eyes. I understand where those tearse from. Because that''s exactly how I feel right now, after hearing my brother''sugh. He looks so happy as he teases his girlfriend. "It''s been a long time since we''ve heard himugh like this," Dad said with a smile. "Yeah. It''s been a long time since he showed this carefree side of him." Mom agreed. A smile also formed my lips. Well, thanks for Madi. She brought my brother back. We just stood there, watched as they exchanged ''No and Yes love''. But then all of our eyes went wide when Gabriel pulled Madi and kissed her on her lips. Aunt Cindy and Aunt Morgan immediately covered Chris and Sav''s eyes. Since when does my brother be affectionate and a fan of PDA---Public disy of attention? Honestly, I''ve never seen him kissed Stacey on her lips especially in front of us. "Argh! Why do you always do that?" an annoyed Madi asked and she punched him in the arm. My brother has already noticed us, but Madi is still oblivious. "Because you keep on arguing with me." heughed as he took Madi''s hand. "Because you don''t want to listen.!" "Ohh... love, no matter what you say, we''re going to sleep together in ''my'' bed." I arched my eyebrow when he emphasized the word ''my'' which meant his bed. "No! I''m going to sleep on the couch." "Okay, we''ll both sleep on the couch." he shrugged. "Hey, you two! Arguing about where you sleep... really?" I saw how Madi''s face turned into the shade of red. "Madi, if you want you can share a bed with me. I have a queen size bed in my room." Her face lit up. "No!" Gabriel immediately disagreed. "Why? It''s just one night. Can''t I borrow your girlfriend even just for a night?" "No Nancy! You''re just about to nt something on her head." I gasped. "Wow! Now I''m nter to you big brother! But I don''t even know how to nt a single rose." Everyone in the roomughed at my joke including Madi... well except my brother who just red at me. "And what do you think I''m going to ''nt'' in her head? She''s no longer a kid, Gabriel!" "I said no, Nancy!" He pulled Madi to his side as he continued giving me a hard stare. But I just arched my eyebrow. As if I''m going take her away from him. I red back, but we were interrupted by our mom. "Kids. Kids. Stop these nonsense arguments of yours. And please, stop that ringpetition Gabriel, Nancy. You''re both no longer a kid! Let Madi choose where she wants to sleep. And Gabriel, you shouldn''t force Madi to sleep in your room and your bed!" "Ma?" Iughed at Gabriel''s protest. Our mom is a bit conservative. "What? You''re not married yet!" she narrowed her eyes on him. Gabriel chuckled and scratched the back of his neck. "Ma, your argument dates back from the 1940s. It''s now the 21st century and I''m marrying her soon." We all gasped at his statement. But as long as I want to agree with him, I turned to my mother''s side just to annoy him. "Mama is right, Gabi. Madi, I''ll tell the maids to bring your things straight to my room." I winked at her. "No! Stop this. You''re not going to win this, Nancy!" he said and then turned to Madi. "Okay, fine. I''m going to sleep on the couch, just stay in my room," he saidpletely annoyed but still kissed Madi''s forehead. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Madi''s POV: After our lunch, all the girls sat in the living room while the boys went directly to the mini-bar that can be found by turning left, from the kitchen. Nancy sat next to me. They were all sharing Gabriel''s childhood with me. His school days, his first injury and he got from ying their softball game at school, how he got his first trophy, his first crush... but then they stopped when someone''s mentioned Stacey''s name. I''ve noticed how sensitive this topic for them when it comes to her. And I put a reminder in my head to ask Gabriel about her, one of these days. I was just listening to them sharing their stories when Aunt Cindy suddenly asked me. "So Madi, how did you meet our Gabriel?" I looked around to see all their eyes were on me, waiting for my story. -''Where are you, Gabriel? You said you''re going to help me?''- I smiled and took a deep breath. "Well, our first meeting was in a coffee shop near his office building. I remembered he was getting his order from the counter, while I was just about to buy my favorite cake and my coffee. Then... it''s an ordinary story. I bumped into him and his coffee flew over his coat and to my surprise, he shouted at me, although I already have my apology." I chuckled due to nervousness. "He was so mad at that time, but of course, I didn''t let it pass so easily. I shouted back at him and he got more mad. He said he won''t forget my face, but I justughed at him. I said ''So what? I won''t forget your ugly face either, jerk!'' I swear if only looks could kill, at that moment, I was already buried six feet under the ground. I bit my lip when they allughed together. "Ohh, Madi, it''s not just an ordinary story, it''s awesome!" Mrs Wilsons said while stillughing. "I agree with mom, sissy." I nced at Nancy when she mentioned the word ''sissy''. "You know, you''re so brave to scream Gabriel as a jerk. Now I know why he loves you." I gulped at her words. "But, back in your story.. it serves him right! Because my brother was a total cold and jerk at that time." Chapter 29: Best Actress Chapter 29: Best Actress Madi''s POV: "Hey! Who''s cold and jerk?" Nancy''s eyes widened and she stiffened in her seat. We all turned to where the voice came from. It''s Gabriel and all the boys and they''re now walking towards our seats. -''Uhuh.. here''s the king himself''- I smiled inwardly. -''Be ready love, Madi ising.''- "Nancy, I heard you. Who''s that cold and jerk you''re talking about?" Nancy''s face turned pale. "Ohh... the jerk? It''s nothing! We''re just talking about Madi''s favorite movie which happened to be my favorite too, right Madi?" she smiled at me, her eyes pleading silently. I chuckled but I noddedter "Hmm... the movie." Gabriel nodded and he turned to me. "Hi, love." he kissed me on the forehead and I have no choice but to smile. "Excuse me, Nancy. Can I sit with next to my girlfriend?" "Argh! I hate you!" She stomped her feet and walked to where Mrs Wilsons was sitting, but her dad immediately stopped her. "Uhuh... little girl, where are you going? That''s my seat." and Mr Wilsons took the vacant ce alongside his wife. We allughed when Nancy pouted like a child. "Argh! Dad? Mom?" "What?" but her mom just asked innocently. "You don''t love me anymore!" she pouted again and sat down next to Aunt Morgan. "Tsk.Tsk." I saw Gabriel shake his head. "So, let''s go back to the story!" Aunt Morgan took our attention by pping her hands. "What happened Madi after that?" Gabriel looked at me after hearing Aunt Morgan''s question. I smiled sweetly at him before I continued my story. "And then when we met again after a month at a trade conference, he was one of the speakers. But at that time, the tables have turned because he identally spilt his wine on my dress. And guess what..." I looked at Gabriel to see him frowning. "...he didn''t apologize. He just smirked at me." I shook my head to make my act seem real. "What?" all the girls asked in unison. And Gabriel''s eyes widened. "Yes. He didn''t mention even a single sorry. Tsk.Tsk." "He didn''t?" Nancy''s eyes widened in disbelief. I shook my head. "He didn''t." -''Great Madi.''- "My God, Gabriel! What a shame! We didn''t raise you just to be rude and arrogant!" Mrs Wilsons snapped at her son. "Huh? I - I... what?" His mouth hung open for having no clue of what we were talking about. I bit my lip to control myughter. His face has a look of confusion and disapproval. Priceless. "Yes, love, you didn''t apologize for spilling your drinks on my dress." "I - I didn''t apologize?" "No." I acted hurt and disappointed. "Gabriel, apologize to Madi now!" Mrs Wilsons narrowed her eyes on him. "Ma?" "I said, ask an apology to your girlfriend!" He looked at me and I smiled. "It''s okay love, I know you''re just tired because of your work---" but I was cut by his Dad. "No, Madi, let Gabriel be responsible for his actions. Being a CEO doesn''t mean you have to be rude towards other people." "It''s okay Mr Wilsons, it was in the past." "Okay, but next time, don''t let him make the same mistakes as before." I just nodded and smiled. But what I didn''t know was that the man sitting next to me with my hands on his had already nned a secret move against me. He brought my hands to his lips and kissed each one of them. "I''m sorry love, for being so rude to you the first time we met..." I smiled triumphantly. "...I promise not to be that jerk again even in the office, I love you." My breath hitched for hisst words. Not to mention we were in front of his parents and rtives. He smirked after seeing my reaction. "I love you to-----" And again, he didn''t let me finish my sentence. He kissed me in front of them. We both heard the gasp coming from the people around us, but he ignored them and continued to kiss me. And since I wasn''t expecting this blunt action from him, I was glued to my seat. I didn''t move and couldn''t even respond to his kiss. But the jerk himself has another n. He bit my bottom lip that caused me to gasp and he entered his tongue inside my mouth. I felt that all my bones seemed to be melt inside, due to the sensations starting to grow inside me. And of course because of the embarrassment, so I grabbed his shirt and tried to push him. But he just tightened his grip on my waist and behind my neck to deepen the kiss. -''My God! This man is going to be the death of me!''- He just let me go when we''re both gasping for air. I wanted to throw him a death re, but since we''re in front of his parents, I tried to smile sweetly. He used his thumb to wipe the smudged lipstick off my lips. He''s grinning widely as if he won in a lottery jackpot. "I love you, Madi." He kissed my forehead. I thought I was the best actress in this act, but I was wrong because if there''s a word that is greater than ''greatest'' and better than ''best''... well, it was him. This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org. "I love you too." I can''t look in his eyes after saying those words. Somehow, it''s starting to affect me inside. "I''m sorry guys, I just couldn''t control myself." I rolled my eyes at his statement. "Can I borrow my girlfriend for a few minutes? I just want her to see the whole house." he stood up and took my hand. "Where are we going?" I asked him confused. "We''re just going for a walk around the house." and I gulped when he winked at me. "Gabriel, just around the house and not in your room!" Mrs Wilsons warned him with a sharp look. I blushed and gripped his hand, but he justughed at his mother. "Ma, don''t worry. We''re not doing it in my room. We''re doing it outside." "Gabriel Wilsons!" Mrs Wilsons face turned horrified. But her husband joined theughing men in the room. "Honey, they were both adults. Let them do what they want." he put his arm around his wife''s shoulder. "Okay, fine! On one condition! I want them to give us a grandchild before the end of this year." -''Ah-ow!''- Thank God, I caught my jaws before they hit the ground. "Ma! In an instant? What do you think of Madi''s womb, a super womb?" I swear Nancy''s face couldn''t be painted even by the best painter in Belleville. "Why? Since they started doing it, so let them be. I gave you my permission to sleep in one room! Just remember my condition!" -''Great! Nice Gabriel, good job!''- I just smiled at them, but deep inside, I really wanted to kill the man holding my hand at the moment. -''Oh dear God, help me!" We left the group with our hands intertwined with each other. He pulled me to the kitchen where there''s a backdoor that sent us to the huge mango shaped pool. "Whoa! So cute!" I said in awe, referring to the pool. We stopped at the bench near the swimming pool. "What did you tell them?" the first question he asked me once we were seated. I can''t figure out if he''s mad or what, because his face looks so serious. "You heard thest part, right? Why do you want to hear it again?" I replied but my eyes weren''t on him but to the small ss garden house on the other side of the pool. "What''s with your ''I didn''t apologize'' to you and we met at a trade conference?" "You said it''s up to me on how would I make a story, right? You gave me a ball, and I threw it. What''s your problem with that?" "The problem is, I didn''t any trade conference in the past. My dad will know if you''re just lying!" he whispered-yelled at me brushing his hair with his hand. -''ohh''- I gulped andposed myself. "So it''s now be my problem? You left me alone with your Mom and your Aunts! They asked me how we met, what would I suppose to say? That we just met three months ago in the office because I am your assistant?" "You should''ve said anything other than a trade conference!" "Then tell me what I should''ve said! Gabriel, how could I know those important details about your family and your personal life when you haven''t told me anything!" "You should at least ask me!" "Wow! So you mean to say, the time when they asked me how we met, I should''ve run to you at the bar and ask you what I should have answered, is that it?" my voiceced with sarcasm. He didn''t say anything after that, he just formed his fists. "Come on, Gabi-----" "Don''t call me that!" I was a bit shocked when he shouted at me this time. -''What''s with this man?''- "Why do you need to shout? I just called you Gabi---" "I said don''t call me that!" the look on his eyes sent goosebumps all over my skin. -''Why is he so mad?''- "What''s wrong with that name? I heard Nancy and your mom called you that!" "Just don''t Madi! You can call me anything, but not that nickname!" "Oh, fucking shit, Gabriel!" I said stomping my feet away from him when I realized the reason why he doesn''t want me to call him that nickname. Because that reminds him of his beloved ex. I remembered Stacey called him by that name when we had a ''lunch meeting'' as he said, but the truth was we only followed them inside the restaurant. "Madi, where are you going?" I heard him scream behind me. "I''m walking around alone! Just find someone to talk to!" "Madi, let''s go back inside!" But I didn''t listen to him. -''Then go back with yourself!''- I murmured but only I can hear. I continued to walk along the edge of the pool and to where the garden house located. But he followed me and kept shouting my name. "Madi!" "Wow!" I stopped in front of the sshouse. There were lots of flowers outside and a long bench inside. "This is mom''s favorite ce when she feels bored inside the house. She likes to nt whenever she doesn''t feel like cooking." "Hmm..." I nodded, giving him a sideways nce and found him smiling. I also smiled. Maybe that''s how he appreciates his mom and her works. "Can I ask you something?" I opened my mouth after a moment of silence. He exhaled loudly before nodding. "Why is mentioning Stacey''s name off-limits to your family?" The moment that question came out of my mouth, his mood changed. "Ask another question. I can''t answer that." He said clenching his jaws. "Huh!" I sneered. "You can''t or you won''t? Because ''can''t'' implies that you do not have the ability to answer that question, while ''won''t'' implies that you are choosing not to answer that question. So, which one?" "Madi, just drop it!" And he started to raise his voice again. "Fine! Then why don''t you want me to call you Gabi?" Being persistent is sometimes not that good and can put you in harm and danger. Because at that very moment, if only the look on his eyes could swallow me, I''m sure my family can find my whole body in hisrge intestine. He didn''t answer me again. But he still has clenched jaws and balled fists. "Is it so difficult to answer?" I asked myself slowly, but I was surprised that he has a wolf''s ear. "It''s not that hard to answer, I just don''t want to!" "Ohh... so you won''t," I concluded. "Can you just drop this topic, Madi? You''re talking too much!" "Huh!" I gasped and pointed my myself. "I, do t-talk too much? Well, if you think I talk too much, just let me know and we can talk about it." I raised an eyebrow. "And yeah, sometimes I even talk to myself if I need expert advice," I added to annoy him and rolled my eyes. "Do you remember what parents teach their children when they''re still young?" I turned to look at him. I got intrigued by what he had just asked. "What?" "Parents spend the first part of their children''s lives teaching them how to walk and talk. And the rest of it is telling them to sit down and ''shut up!" "Huh!" My eyes widened in shock and my mouth hung open with hisst words. "Close that mouth of yours, I won''t ever kiss you if flies get inside on that." I gulped and immediately closed my mouth. I moistened my dried lips with my tongue and I missed how his eyes darkened with my action. "Let''s go back." he took my hand and started to pull me again. "But you know what...." he stopped and turned around. "... I prefer those flies to touch my mouth than to be touch by yours!" He raised an eyebrow and then smirked. "Okay, with what you said, I''ll kiss you more often just to shut you up." "Gabriel!" my eyes widened again. But he justughed at me. "Madi, if don''t shut that sweet mouth of yours, I swear I''m gonna kiss you right here, right now. And I won''t stop until you beg me." And with that, I chose not to speak again. Even when I heard himughing, I remained quiet until we reached the backdoor and saw Nancy in the kitchen. Chapter 30: Its my heart Chapter 30: It''s my heart "Sissy, try this one. I made a chocte cake." Nancy offered me a slice of cake. "Wow! You can bake?" I asked her smiling. She was about to answer, but her brother answered for her. "Yes, she can bake. At least she knows how to bake because she can''t even cook a fried egg." "Argh! I hate you, Gabriel! Get out of here!" she screamed at the top of her lungs. "If you can''t comment something nice, get your ass out of here!" "Ohh, but what I said was true. You can''t even boil water in the kettle." and heughed in his carefree laughter which made Nancy stop in her tracks. Maybe seeing his brother back in his carefree mood, still a surprise for her. She looked at me and then she smiled. "I''ve changed my mind. You can stay here brother. You can even eat my cake if you want." I bit my lip when Gabriel looked at her and wrinkled his eyebrows. "No, thanks Nancy, but I won''t fall with your tricks." "B-But..." "Let''s go, Madi." he took my hand again. "Uhm... I''ll stay with Nancy. I''ll help her." I smiled and patted his cheek. "Love---"This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org. "I''m fine, love, don''t worry about me, just go to the boys." "Are you sure?" "Jesus! She''s no longer a kid! And I won''t eat your ''love'' Gab!" Nancy screamed, mimicking his word and rolled her eyes. "I''m not talking to you. Nancy, I''m warning you, don''t ask her with your ridiculous mouth and ridiculous question!" and then he turned to me. "Love, just call me if Nancy did something stupid, okay?" "Wow, Gabriel! She''ll just stay in the kitchen! My God, I''m not a beast!" He ignored her and asked me. "Love?" "Okay, okay. I''ll call you." I chuckled and pulled his shirt cor and brought my mouth closer to his ear. "Don''t worry love, I won''t ask Nancy anything about you." "Madi!" Iughed at his reaction. "I love you," I said smiling and I don''t know where I got the confidence from and kissed him quickly on his lips. I saw how he was taken aback at what I did. And I used that as an opportunity to push him away. "Come on, I''m fine here." He just nodded and kissed my forehead before disappearing in our sights. "You know what, sissy? I want to say thank you." Nancy said when we were both alone. "Thanks for what?" I got confused as to why she wanted to thank me. "For bringing my brother back." I watched her she slice the chocte cake. "Why? Hasn''t he evere to visit you here for a long time?" "No, that''s not what I mean. Thank you for bringing back the old Gabriel. The carefree and naughty Gabriel who always smiles,ughs and throws jokes to any of us." she said having a half-hearted smile. "Ohh..." I don''t know what to say. What am I supposed to say? That we''re just acting? "He had changed so much after his break up with Stacey. Oh no, the right words for that were, she left him. My brother gave her everything, all of him including his dreams. Do you know what his first college course?" I stopped breathing for a while. "No," I replied, shaking my head. "He wanted to be a pilot, but he gave up on that dream because he believed in that woman. She was taking business back then and because she wanted my brother to always be on her side every day, every hour and every minute, she convinced him to ship into a business." she took the stic gloves off her hands. "Well, for our parents, whatever course we would have taken is fine with them. That''s why Gab chose that course but eventually, he followed what his woman wanted. After they graduated, he proposed to her and God! She was squealing when she saw the diamond ring on her finger!" Her face turned sour and she shook her head at the memory. "And then what happened after that?" my curiosity started to kick me. She sighed. "And then... since he graduated in business, dad offered him his position, to be the CEO of WEC. But he turned down dad''s offer." "But why?" "Because his woman wanted them to put their own business. Clothing lines, if I remember it correctly. And she wanted to travel abroad, here and there! So, they lived together after graduation. Travelling from one country to another. Gosh! My brother was like a lovesick puppy at that time, always trailing behind Stacey!" I gulped at the sudden pain that surged inside me, but I didn''t want her to notice that, so I continued to listen to her story. "What Stacey wants, always Stacey gets. And if you ask Gabriel why he''s giving her everything, he would just answer you ''because I love her and I would do everything to make her happy''. How stupid isn''t it?" She waved her hands in the air. "And then what? In the end, she just left him! She betrayed him by choosing that bastard Ray over him!" "Ray?" I asked even though that name sounded familiar. "Stacey''s new boyfriend. Her high school ssmate. Yeah, he also has looks but he''s nothing compared to my brother! I don''t know what she sees in him!" "So, after their break up, he turned into a different person?" "Exactly! He became a loner, sissy. He doesn''t want to socialize. He doesn''t even want to open his social media ounts. He stopped being Gabriel. He stopped being my brother for over a year. So, I really appreciate your presence, Madi." I just smiled at her. "So does that mean, he really loved Stacey before, if he changed after she left?" Actually, for that, I don''t really need to act upset, or whatever, because that''s exactly how I feel at the moment. "Oh my God!" her eyes widened as she covered her mouth. "Why?" I asked, pretending innocently. Although I already knew what''s behind her horrified look. "Madi, Gabriel would surely kill me! Oh my God! Just forget everything I said!" I tried tough but I think I failed because it turned out to be a painfulugh. "Oh Madi, I''m sorry." she bit her lip. "Why are you saying sorry." "Because I took the cat out of the bag. I know my brother hasn''t told you yet, Madi. I''m sorry. But can you not let my brother know about this?" I held her hands and smiled a little. "Don''t worry, I won''t tell him." "Thank you, sissy." She hugged me and I hugged her back. Weughed together afterwards. "But you know what, I really didn''t like her ever since Gab introduced her to us, as in never!" "But why?" I asked, trying tough. "I don''t know, maybe sister''s instinct." She shrugged and then took both of my hands. "Unlike you Madi." "What do you mean unlike me?" I stared at her as she turned serious. "I''ve liked you ever since my brother mentioned the first word about you. His firstpliment about you and when I saw you, I proved that he''s telling the truth." "Wow, and what did he tell you guys about me?" I can''t believe Gabriel was talking about me in his family. "No-ow! That''s a secret for you to know and ask my brother if you want to know." she giggled and used her finger to sign ''no''. "Nancy, please. I''m sure he won''t tell me anything. Your brother is an asshole sometimes!" I blurted out without thinking, which made herugh. "I really like you, Madi! You''re not just making my brotherugh, you can also call him a jerk, an asshole and I like it." "Because it''s true! He''s a real jerk, not just sometimes, but most of the time!" I said out loud and we were bothughing hard when the asshole showed up in the kitchen. "I heard that ''jerk'' again. I really wonder who''s that jerk you were calling." he said walking his way towards me. "Oh, the jerk---" "Hep! Stop talking Nancy! I won''t buy your excuse this time." he raised his palm in the air to show Nancy to stop. "What excuse?" "That you''re just talking about your favorite movie! Come on, think of something new that could sell on the market!" "And where are you going?" I asked him when he kept getting closer to me. "I''m going to take you and I''m going to kiss you," he said smiling and I gasped. "Oh my God! Don''t tell me you''re gonna make out here in the kitchen? That''s eww! I swear if you that, I''m not going in here forever! Disgusting!" I couldn''t help butugh at Nancy''s expression. "I didn''t say we''re gonna make out! I said I''m just gonna kiss my girlfriend! You''re exaggerating!" "Eww!" And she left stomping her feet out of the kitchen. "Okay, she''s gone!" I pushed his chest which was just an inch away from my body. "And so?" "And so... you can stop your best actor drama that you''re gonna kiss me!" "Oh, love, but it wasn''t a drama. I''m really going to kiss you." My eyes widened. "Gabriel---" To hell with this man! Why was he always kissing me? It''s not that I don''t like it, it''s just that... I don''t want to get used to it. I pushed him hard and red at him, but the jerk justughed in front of me. He pulled me and hugged me so hard that I couldn''t move and couldn''t even protest. "Gabriel what are you doing?" I straddled in his hold, but he''s so strong, I can''t even move my arms. "I''m hugging you," "God! That''s not the proper way of hugging, Mr Wilsons!" and suddenly he let go of me. My eyes widened in realization. "What did you just call me?" "Ohh... I.. I.." and because I can''t form any words, I pushed him and ran to the other side of the table. "Oh, Madi. So, you want me to chase you, huh?" he has an evil smile on his lips. "No!" "No? So, why did you call me that?" "What, Mr Wilsons? Because that''s yourst name and it''s for uhmm... formal calling." I bit my lip as I walked around the oval mahogany table while he''s chasing me. "Ahh okay, formal." He said nodding. "My future Mrs Wilsons, I promise you that if I get you, I will kiss you hard until you get out of breath." Since we were busy exchanging nonsense words about his name and the way I called him, we both became oblivious of everyone around us. We didn''t notice that Nancy started recording our chasing battle through her phone. And that his mom and dad were watching us as if they were watching a scene from there favorite movie. "Really?" I asked without even bothering. "Really, so get yourself ready." "Ohh... I''m so scared, love." "Yes love, wait for me." "Haha---" and the next thing he did startle me and stopped me from walking. He jumped over the mahogany table and was instantly in front of me. "Ohh...." my mouth formed an ''O'' shape. "Now, my love, can I get my reward?" He asked, his face wearing a breathtaking smile. If we''re just in a different situation, I will just look at his handsome face and his dimple. He frowned when he noticed that I was smiling. I poked his dimple with my forefinger and smiled like an idiot. "You''re so cute when you smile. I love your dimple." I said without even thinking. His smile left me in dazed. "Just my dimple?" he asked me and I looked directly in his eyes and shook my head. "I love you." It''s my heart that speaks... I know... it''s not my mouth. But what I didn''t realize, I said it out loud. He stopped and stared at me. My lips suddenly dried up and I unconsciously moistened them with my tongue. His eyes followed my mouth movement. I saw him swallowed and the next moment, he pulled me and suddenly kissed me. I kissed him back. Our lips moved perfectly in sync. He drew me more towards him and put my hands on the back of his neck as he kissed me hard as of it was his air to breathe and his life depended on that kiss. When I saw a sh.. something from a camera, I was instantly pulled back to reality. I pushed him slightly and pointed to the people behind him with my mouth. My face turned into crimson red due to embarrassment. "They were watching us!" I whispered and bit my lip. But he used his thumb to release it from my teeth. "Don''t do that, or else I won''t stop kissing you," he warned and pulled me to his side. He put his hand over my shoulder and he kissed the top of my head. When I looked at him, he also kissed my forehead. A smile formed on my lips, and I put my face on his chest. Chapter 31: Am I falling in love with him? Chapter 31: Am I falling in love with him? "Ahh.. that''s so sweet, honey. They''re so sweet." his mother walked closer to us pping her hands. They both have genuine and happy smiles on their lips. "I''m happy for you son, you''ve finally found your woman." Mr Wilsons patted him on the shoulder while Mrs Wilsons hugged me tightly. Nancy was also smiling behind them and she already stopped recording. I couldn''t help but gulped the conscience that has risen inside me. I wish I could say the same. I wish I could proudly say, ''yes I am his woman'' but no. These are not real. These are just part of a deal. "Thank you so much, Madi. You were an angel sent from above to my Gabriel." Mrs Wilsons took both of my hands. And I smiled nervously. I looked at Gabriel but he wasn''t looking at me. "Angel? What do you mean, Mrs Wilsons?" I asked her trying to calm myself down. "Ohe on, let''s cut that formality and just call me ''mama''." My eyes widened in surprise. -''Mama?''- "And don''t call me Mrs Wilsons, because you''re only calling yourself by that too." "Huh?" "I know someday you''re going to call me mama too, why don''t we do it now? I heard my son call you his ''future Mrs Wilsons'', why don''t we start it today, right honey?" she called her husband''s attention. And everyone looked at me. I bit my lip when I nced at Gabriel, but the jerk.. always the jerk himself, said nothing but just smirked. "Yes, Madi, I also want you to call me Dad from now on." My eyes widened and a light chuckled escaped my mouth. I don''t know what my face looks like at that moment. I wanted tough but I also wanted to kill Gabriel. "D-Dad...?" "Yes. That''s better than calling me Mr Wilsons every time." "And call me Mama." I smiled at her wife. "M-Mama." And she hugged me again. "Thank you, Madi. We''re always here to support you and Gab. And regarding my condition, forget it. If you two want to have more babies in the future, then that''s fine with me. You can start it now." "Hehe..." I smiled in awkwardness. I don''t know what to say. And when the jerk has noticed that the situation was getting more awkward, he finally chose to open his mouth. "Ma, don''t pressure Madi. Let''s n this for ourselves." he pulled my hand and led me to his side. "Okay fine. By the way, your Aunts and I were nning to have a family pic tomorrow at theke. I want you to wake up early tomorrow, guys. All the boys, you will go there early for fishing and prepare the grill, while all of us girls will follow you after we prepare our lunch." "Yey! I missed this, Ma." Nancy squealed in excitement. And she hugged her mother. "I know." Mrs Wilsons patted her daughter''s hand and kissed her head. With that scene, I suddenly remembered my mom. I didn''t notice I was smiling at them until Gabriel held my hand and I looked at him. I silently asked him by raising my two eyebrows, but he just shook his head. "Nancy," he called his sister. N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "Hmm?" "Why did you have to take pictures earlier?" he asked with a scowl on his face. "Why? What''s wrong with that?" she asked raising her eyebrow. "What''s wrong? You''re invading our privacy!" "Nice... invading privacy? Excuse me, dear brother. But as I remember, you two are in the kitchen and this kitchen is a family''s property. So, there is no invading of privacy there!" "You don''t understand!" "I don''t understand? What part, dear brother? I told you, don''t make out in the kitchen, but you still did! Eww!" "Hey kids, stop it! My God, you''re both a grown adult. Why are you always fighting over little things?" their mother stood in the middle of them, while their father just shakes his head. I smiled, I bet it''s just normal with these two since they were kids. And I can''t believe this side of Gabriel''s personality. He was acting as if he''s younger than Nancy, which is the opposite. "Ma---" "Stop it, Nancy! You''re always fighting like you''re cats and dogs! You can''t together in the same ce." Mr Wilsons and I shared a look and smiled at each other. He called me through a head signal. It means, he wants to talk to me. I wasn''t pressured on the outside, but thanks God, no one sees my inside as I can feel my heart, my intestines and all the organs inside my stomach are tumbling in pressure and nervousness. I followed Mr Wilsons to the veranda, looking out at the flower garden outside. He''s just leaning against the veranda railings. I stopped and stood next to him inhaling the fresh scent of the flowers that filled in my nostrils. "How are you, Madi?" That was not the first question I expected to hear from him. It has a lot of meaning. How am I personally? How am I as a girlfriend or how I am epting all of this? "I''m fine D-Dad... I guess?" I chuckled at the end. My heart was hammering inside my ribcage. "Good. Do you really love, Gabriel?" I gulped at his question. "Yes. I love him." I answered not looking at him but at the flowers. "I can see that." My eyes widened and my head immediately snapped at him. I''m not sure what of he''s thinking at the moment. If he already knew that we were just acting or that he already knew that I''m no longer acting. "I can see it in your eyes, the way you look at my son." I didn''t say anything. I just turned my eyes back to the garden. "You know what, I like you Madi. You made my son happy. You made him smile again.". I gulped again. That''s almost the same as what Nancy told me in the kitchen. "I hope you stay with him, Madi." my breath hitched when he faced me. "I hope you stay with him, no matter what happened. I hope you can stay in love with him and make him the best man he can be. If that happens, Madi, I owe you everything." I bit my lip and was about to speak when I heard Gabriel''s voice. I sighed inwardly for the instant relief. "Dad!" he called his father. -''Whew! That was so intense.''- "Son." he turned to look at him. "I''m just talking to your girlfriend." and he smiled. "I can see that," Gabriel said in a serious tone. I turned around and pretended not to hear their conversation, but my curiosity draws me. "Take care of her, Son. She''s one of a kind. Even if you look for another like her in this world, you can never find someone like her again. Try to love her son." I haven''t heard Gabriel''s answer. I was left wondering about my thoughts. What did Mr Wilsons mean by ''stay with him'' and his word with his son, ''try to love her''? Does he already know everything? If so, why was he still pretending? "Are you okay?" I was pulled from my thoughts when Gabriel stood next to me. "Can I ask you something?" I gulped before nodding and looking at him. He''s also looking at me. "Earlier in the kitchen, before I kissed you, did you... uhmm... already know they were watching?" My breath stacked from my throat. "Was that why you said I love you---" "Yes," I answered faking my happy tone. "I''ve already seen them, that''s why I said I love you." that''s a lie. A big lie. "Hmm," he said nodding and turned his look out of the garden. "Why? It''s a part of the deal, right? So, I just yed my part." I said taking my eyes off him. "Yes, that''s only a part of the deal and it''s a good job, Madi." I didn''t say anything. I just smiled bitterly. I hate this feeling... Lying. I''m not just lying to everyone, to him, but also myself. I don''t know what''s happening to me. Am I falling in love with him or is this what they called ''love? But I thought love is a happy feeling? Why am I hurting? I nced at him and he also did the same. His eyes held so many emotions and for the first time... I couldn''t even read any of them. Chapter 32: You cant fall for me Chapter 32: You can''t fall for me Gabriel''s POV: I noticed Dad called Madi to follow him out. And she did. I just can''t follow them right away because my Mom keeps babbling about my little fight with my sister. When she talks like this, giving us her non-stop lecture on the fact that we are siblings, that we''re no longer a kid, and Nancy and I can never walk out unless she''s done. We need to listen so that her speech would end soon. When she finished, I rushed towards the veranda and there I found my father and Madi talking seriously. "Dad!" I called him. He turned around and smiled at me. "Son. I''m just talking to your girlfriend." "I can see that," I said in a serious tone. I don''t know what they talked about and I don''t know what he told Madi about me. I looked at Madi but she turned around and now her back is facing me. "Take care of her, Son." Dad patted me on the shoulder and I looked at him. "She''s one of a kind. Even if you look for another like her in this world, you can never find someone like her again. Try to love her son." I can''t find a word for that moment. It seems that Dad has a clue and I just nodded. He went back inside and I walked to where Madi was. She didn''t notice me. She''s lost in her thoughts. I sighed before I asked her. "Are you okay?" She looked at me and nodded. "Can I ask you something?" I asked not looking anywhere but at her eyes. And she nodded. "Earlier in the kitchen, before I kissed you, did you, uhmm... already know they were watching? Was that why you said I love you---" "Yes," she answered smiling. "I''ve already seen them that''s why I said I love you." I don''t know but her honest answer somehow gives me an uneasy feeling. "Hmm," I said nodding and turned to look out of the garden. "Why? It''s part of the deal, right? So, I just yed my part." She shrugged. "Yes. That''s only a part of the deal and it''s a good job, Madi." Yeah, all of these were just a part of the deal... part of my game. I nced at her and she did the same. She smiled but didn''t reach her eyes and looked back at the garden. -''I''m sorry Madi. For taking you to my mess. I promise after I finish this n, I will let you go. But this time, I need you to stay next to me to continue my n. I need Stacey back, I need to show her how much the pain she has given me from the past.''- I turned my eyes away from her and watched the white butterfly sipping the nectar from the red rose. And I sighed before looking in her face again. -''I hope we can stay like this until the end of this deal. I''m sorry Madi, but you can''t fall in love with me. You can''t fall in love with this man who still bears grudges from the past. I can''t give you my heart, because I don''t know where I lost it. And I''m not sure if I still really have it inside me.''- * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * "Hey dude, what are you thinking?" Phillip patted me on the shoulder. I was sitting at a barstool, sipping one of Dad''s favorite brandies. "Nothing... just thinking about something," I said before drinking the remaining content on my ss. "Oh, something or someone?" It''s Justine''s question from my left side. "You know what, I''m d you''ve already moved on from your ex----" "Justine!" his brother cut him off immediately. And I just sighed. "What? What''s wrong with that? Isn''t it true, Gab?" he looked at me before turning back to his brother. "He already moved on, can''t you see? He now has a Madi in his life." "Well, in that case, I agree. You''re lucky with her, cousin. I can feel that. Don''t let her go." I smiled and shook my head. "Don''t worry, I won''t let her go. I''ll tie her on my hips if it''s needed." "That''s my man! Fight!" they shared a high five. And then we heard someughter from the kitchen. We all shared a look with scrunched eyebrows. "That''s our Mom," Phillip said shaking his head. "Come on, maybe they''re were throwing nasty jokes again. Good luck to your girlfriend, Gab." And I remembered that Madi had been dragged by Aunt Morgan to the kitchen earlier. I agreed with the two and walked towards the kitchen. We''re still a few steps away from them when I heard Nancy''s laugh. We just stayed standing on the door frame and watched the girls along with ''my girlfriend''. They were now preparing for dinner. "Sissy, do you know that Gab is allergic to peanuts and any food with peanuts?" Nancy asked Madi while chewing peanuts from the bowl. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. "Yeah," she answered and I frowned. How did she know? I didn''t remember mentioning it to her. "Nancy, why don''t you slice the carrots and cabbage?" I bit my lip when Nancy frowned. "Ma, you know I can''t!" "Then how would you learn if you don''t try it?" "But Ma---" "It''s okay, Nancy. I''ll teach you." Madi took the knife from Nancy''s hand together with the chopping board. "Alright," Nancy said smiling at her. "Sissy, do you know how to cook?" "Uhm... yup." she also smiled at her and then whispered something in Nancy''s ear. I couldn''t help raising an eyebrow when Nancy nodded excitedly. And then she started chopping the vegetables with Nancy holding her cellphone. And my eyes couldn''t believe how she chopped all the vegetables around her. "Oh goodness! How? How did she...." "How did she chopped those veggies so fast?" Phillip continued what Justine supposed to ask. When I looked at them, they have the same expression as mine. "Wow, Sissy! How did you that?"Nancy asked our silent question. But Madi shrugged her shoulders and smiled. "Maybe because I always cook and I love to cook". "Gabriel is so lucky of you, Madi." Justine and Philip patted my back when they heard their Mom''s voice. "And you know what the old sayings say? The way to a man''s heart is through his stomach." that was Aunt Cindy. "My Gabriel is so lucky to have you," Mom added. "Yeah, and you know what? Stacey can''t even lift a pan and---" "Nancy!" all three women, our mother and our two aunts shouted at her. "Oops! Sorry... I''m sorry, Madi." But Madi didn''t say anything, she just smiled at her. And I swear, if I could just break my sister''s neck, I did it since the moment she opened her mouth. "Well, I agree with Nancy. Your ex can''t even wash a single spoon, what more in cooking?" I red at Justine. Aunt Cindy suddenly changed the topic and after a while, theyughed as Madi and Nancy continued their chopping lessons. Chapter 33: Catch me Im falling for you Chapter 33: Catch me I''m falling for you Gabriel''s POV: After our dinner, when we were all sitting in the living room talking with the family, Uncle Jhon suggested having a little fun. He opened the entertainment set and took the three microphones from the drawer. It''s our family''s way of bonding every weekend. I was seated next to ''my girlfriend'', watching her as she joined the girls'' girly things conversation. "Madi, do you know how to sing?" she was surprised when Uncle Jhon gave her the microphone. This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org. I raised an eyebrow when she smiled and epted it from Uncle Jhon''s hand. "Is it okay if I can just sing a little, Uncle Jhon?" she asked him smiling. And all eyes were now on her. "Of course, Sissy. At least you know how to sing and you''re not a party popper, unlike Stacey the bitch- --" "Nancy!" All the girls except Madi screamed her name and red at her. I also looked at her, shaking my head. And then all our heads snapped at the two kids, Savahna and Christian. "See? I was right, that Stacey was a real bitch!" Sav yelled and Chris giggled. "Sluty bitch!" he added. "Savannah! Christian! Where did you get those words?" Aunt Cindy red at her kids and I looked back at Nancy who''s now biting her nails. I know how affected they were when Stacey left me, but not as affected as Nancy, who cried instead of me. I love my sister so much, but when moments like this happen, I also wanted to smack her head. "I''m sorry, Sis," she said with a peace sign in her two fingers. "You don''t have to apologize, Nancy, it''s okay." Madi smiled at her. "If you want you can choose me a song." "Really? Ohh, I love that." Nancy squealed in excitement as she got up and pulled Madi next to her. "Where are you dragging her?" I couldn''t help but ask. But my stubborn sister ignored me and just raised her eyebrow. "It''s okay, love." Madi smiled at me and I sighed. "Bro, don''t worry, you''re sister won''t bite your ''love''." Justine sat next to me as soon as Madi walked with Nancy. I didn''t answer him. I just watched how Madi smiled andughed at Nancy''s corny jokes. After a few moments, Dad and Mom returned from the kitchen with the bottle of scotch whiskey and wine in their hands. "Wow! This is gonna be exciting!" Aunt Cindy and Aunt Morgan pped their hands. When Dad opened the two bottles, he gave me a ss of whiskey and wine for Madi. "Sissy, just tell us if you don''t drink---" "I am, Nancy. Don''t worry." she giggled and I just found myself smiling. "Don''t stare at her too much, Gab. She''s already yours. If she melts in your haze, it''s your loss." Phillip patted me on the shoulder as he gave giving me a smirk, but I just nudged him on the side. Then Uncle Jhon started singing, followed by my Dad, Mom, Uncle James and now it''s Madi. I couldn''t take my eyes away from her. But before she can sing, Nancy took the microphone from her hand. "Guys, this is one of my favorite songs but since my sister-inw allowed me to choose a song for her, so I chose this one." then she gave it back to her. Madi stood up and looked at me. She smiled and then focused her eyes on the TV screen. ~~~I don''t know why, but when I look in your eyes, I felt something that seems so right... You''ve got yours, I''ve got mine... I think I''m losing my mind, ''cause I shouldn''t feel this way... catch me I''m falling for you and I don''t know what to do... How can something so wrong, feel so right all along.. catch me I''m falling for you... how can time be so wrong for love toe along, catch me I''m falling for you... how can love let it go, when it has no ce to go, I can''t go along pretending.. that love isn''t here to stay, catch me I''m falling for you... If I could just walk away, without you from day to day, I would die just thinking of you... I know we can''t ever be, more than friends you and me, but why do I feel this way... catch me I''m falling for you and I don''t know what to do... Maybe someday I''ll see, why love did this to me, ''cause I can''t go along pretending, that love isn''t here to stay... catch me I''m falling for you... And is it wrong for me to feel this way.. ''cause I don''t what to do without you... catch me I''m falling for you~~~ All eyes were on her when she started singing and even when she finished. Everyone pped their hands but I got stuck in my seat. She has talent. She knows how to capture the heart of her listeners. Because Aunt Cindy and Nancy have tears in their eyes when she finished her song. And I admit there''s something with the song and it''s lyrics... or maybe it''s just by the way she sang it. "Wow, Madi, you''re really good at singing. You have a talent in you. You really belong to this family. Even Gabriel has talent." She looked at me and smiled. I smiled back and then Aunt Morgan stood and pped her hands again. "And God, Sissy. You made me cry." Nancy said still sniffing. "Do you know why it was my favorite song?" "No, why?" Madi asked her confused. Nancy held her hands and they go back to their seats. And since Dad started his song, I didn''t hear what Nancy''s exnation. I just watched them exchange their whispers and smiles. A smile crept into my lips as I realized how easily she got along with my family. Well, maybe because of her personality. As I watched themugh, there''s something in her that I noticed. She also has a dimple. Why didn''t I notice that before? She''s beautiful when she smiles and cute when she gets mad. She''s so simple---. "I told you, don''t stare too much! She can melt in your eyes, bro!" I chuckled and shook my head when Phillip put the ss of whiskey in my hand. "Do you really love her?" my head snapped in his direction. "What kind of question is that?" I asked him back with a frow. "You didn''t answer my question." "Tss! Do I need to answer that?" I avoided his gaze. "Of course! It''s just a yes or a no. Do you really love her, Gabriel?" "Of course! I won''t introduce her to you guys if I don''t." "Okay." he shrugged. "That''s just what I''m asking. You love her, then it''s good!" "Why did you ask?" I raised an eyebrow. He sipped his drinks first before answering my question. "Let''s just say, I''m not convinced that you''ve already moved on with Stacey." "Tss! Stacey is in the past! And I don''t want to talk about her anymore!" I said annoyed then drink my whisky. I gripped the ss tightly. Why does almost everyone have a clue of what''s going on between me and Madi? This should be just between me and her. I need to talk to herter. Chapter 34: When did you stop loving me? Chapter 34: When did you stop loving me? Madi''s POV: "God, Sissy. You made me cry." Nancy said while sniffing, right after I finished the song. I just smiled at her and nced in Gabriel''s direction. I also smiled at him and he did the same. "Do you know why it was my favorite song?" "No, why?" I asked her confused. She held my hands andd me back to our seats. "Because I have a friend in high school who fell in love with her best friend, although her best friend didn''t notice her effort. But she continued to love him even when she knew deep inside, the guy will never notice her effort because he''s in love with someone else. And that song was her team song for her best friend. Catch me I''m falling for you." "Ohh.." why does it hurt to hear her story? "But anyway, let''s enjoy for this night. For your ever after with Gabriel and for your uing babies!" We raised our ss as we bothughed. When I nced back at Gabriel, I saw him frowning while talking to Phillip. But then I looked away when I know he was about to look at me. Mr Wilsons was really enjoying his song which was obviously dedicated to his wife. And when he finished singing, he passed the microphone to his son. I looked at Nancy when she nudged my arm. "What?" I asked her. "Is he going to sing?" she asked with wide eyes while referring to her brother. "And so?" I couldn''t help but ask. "He stopped singing after his break up with---ohh, I''m sorry." and she immediately covered her mouth as if mentioning Stacey''s name was a huge sin. "Why do you always say sorry every time you mention Stacey''s name?" I asked, frowning. "Because she was his ex and you are his present," she answered awkwardly. I sighed before taking her hand. "Nancy, like what you said, she''s in the past and I am his present. And it''s nothing to me if you talk about her." I hope my eyes can show the same emotion with my lips. "Can I also choose a song for you, Gab?" that was Justine, taking the song lists from Gabriel''s hands. They were already in the middle and choosing the song for Gabriel. He didn''tin, he just let him choose a song for him. "Okay, here it is," Justine said grinning. Nancy and I leaned back on our seats and watched Gabriel frown and looked at the grinning Justine on the couch. He just shook his head and to my surprise, he walked over to me and kissed my forehead. All eyes were watching us. And I hitched my breath when he lowered his head to my ear. "Love, I didn''t choose this song. The bastard Justine put it on the screen." I smiled at him. Asking him silently through his eyes. Actually, he didn''t even need to tell me. "I just want you to know." he smiled and cupped my left cheek while his other hand held the microphone. Then he started singing. I straightened my seat when I heard the first lyrics. ~~~When did you stop loving me? How long have I been a memory? I''ve gotta know for my own sanity. Tell me when did you stop loving me?~~~ Although I know that song was not chosen by him, but by the way he sings each of its lyrics, it felt like an arrow piercing my heart. ~~~Was it that night that you stayed out until dawn? You know that night has hunted me for so long. Or was your love already cold? Tell me please, I''ve gotta know. Darling, when did you stop loving me?~~~ It seemed to me, it''s like his personal question for her. When did she stop loving him? ~~~There was a time when you worshipped where I stood. Heaven knows I''d bring it back if I could. Now I can tell when we make love, It ain''t me you''re thinking of. Tell me when did you stop loving me? Darling, when did you stop loving me?~~~ The time he finished his song, none of them pped their hands, except me. I looked at them one by one, but their eyes were focused only to him. It''s really an awkward situation. He walked over to me, made me stand and sit in my ce before pulling me and made me sit on hisp. He then encircled his both arms around my waist and dipped his head into the crook of my neck. I was left confused and a little shock. What''s going on? All of them suddenly stopped talking and just looking at him. And because he was hiding his head on my neck, I can also feel the stares of each of them. "Madi, can I talk to you outside, dear?" Aunt Cindy asked me, but before I could answer, Gabriel asked her back. "Why do you want to talk to her?" his face was serious and cold. "Because I asked her to talk to Madi." but it was his Mom who answered his question. "And why do you want Aunt Cindy to talk to Madi?" "Because your Dad and I have something to ask you!" His hands tightened his grip around my waist. "Madi, is it okay with you, honey?" she asked me suddenly. I looked at Gabriel''s face and my eyes asked for an answer. And he nodded. "Rx, I''ll follow youter," he whispered slowly in my ear and gave me a peck on my lips and my forehead. Me, Nancy, Aunt Morgan and Aunt Cindy headed towards the veranda. We all sat outside on the long mahogany bench. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Gabriel''s POV: N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "What''s this Ma? Why do you have to pull me in the kitchen? Aunt Cindy already pulled Madi outside!" I asked a little annoyed. "What is this---- you''re asking me what is this? Shouldn''t I be the one asking that question to you, Gabriel?" "Ma, what are you talking about?" "What am I talking about? What was that? What''s with your song earlier?" "So, is this just all about my song? Come on, Ma, it was just a song! What''s the matter with that?" "It wasn''t just a song, Gabriel! That was your heartbreak song? It''s like your personal question to your ex, asking her when she stopped loving you? What was that?" "Ma, I told you it was just a song! And it wasn''t me who chose that, it''s Justine!" "Gabriel, whether you chose it or not, the way you decided to sing that song in front of your girlfriend, that was a big foul!" "Ma..." I chuckled. "You''re exaggerating. That was just nothing to Madi." "Who told you it was just nothing to her? Have you seen her face while you sing?" I didn''t answer her as I got curious about what she would say next. And I know Madi was just pretending. "You''re hurting her, Gab." I looked directly into her eyes when she lifted my chin. "Can I ask you a serious question, son? But I also want an honest answer." she paused and stared at me. "Have you really moved on from your past rtionship?" I was taken aback by my Mom''s question, I didn''t expect her to ask me that question. It''s been over a year since my breakup with Stacey, but I''ve never been asked this question. "Ma, it''s been a year-----" "Just answer my question, Gabriel. Yes or no, have you really gotten over with yourst rtionship?" "Yes, Ma. I''m over with it. It''s in the past, why do we have to talk about this over and over again?" "Because, I can see your true feelings in your eyes, Gabriel. Your actions may lie, but your eyes say otherwise." I chuckled at her again. "Ma, are you now a fortune-teller?" She became more serious. "Why, do you want me to read what you have in mind right now?" I didn''t say anything. She cupped my cheek. "Gab, I want you to treasure what you have right now. You already have Madi." I just remained quiet. "If you keep picking a scab, it will bleed and it will never heal. If you keep dragging the pain of the past, it will never heal. Let it go and move on." Thay was herst sentence before returning to the living room. And there I was left thinking about the past, my pain, Madi and my game. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Hi, lovelies... please see also my other book... ''TAMING MY ARROGANT HUSBAND'' Chapter 35: Loving him silently Chapter 35: Loving him silently **Nothing hurts more than realizing that he meant everything to you, but you meant nothing to him.** My face crunched when I got a text message from Sandy. It was a quote. I was getting ready to sleep and Gabriel is still outside. I''ve already changed into my sleeping clothes. -''What does she mean by this?''- I sat on the edge of the bed and read it again, and because my mind was too focused on my phone, I didn''t notice Gabriel entered the door and walked past me to the bathroom. I also missed when how he raised an eyebrow at me. But then I got another text message from Sandy. **He ignores you, but you like him. He does nothing, yet you fall for him. You miss him, but he never thought about you.** "What is going on with her?" I asked myself aloud. Gabriel was already out of the bathroom and turned to look at me. But I haven''t noticed him yet. I reread the second message and I felt confused if it was really for me? I suddenly chuckled, shaking my head. And my cellphone beeped again. **It hurts to love someone and not be loved in return. But what is more painful is to love someone and never find the courage to let that person know how you feel.** My hand automatically rose to my chest. Why am I suddenly affected? I bit my lip and chuckled again. I was about to dial her phone number when she sent another message. **Love... is when you shed a tear and still want him. It''s when he ignores you and you still love him. It''s when he loves another girl but you still smile and say ''I''m happy for you''.. when all you really do is cry.** With herst message, I couldn''t help butugh loudly. -''why are you crying?''- I heard a voice in my head. "I''m not crying!" I said defensively because it''s true. "What are you talking about?" maybe at this point, I looked like an insane woman, talking to my phone even though I know it will never answer me. And I decided to call her. But I''ve already called her number more than five times, but she didn''t answer any of my calls. "Who are you calling at thiste hour?" I almost dropped my phone when Gabriel suddenly asked. I turned to him and saw him leaning against the closet door. "Oh my!" I said in a shocked tone. "How long have you been there?" "Ten minutes." He shrugged. "Ten minutes?" -''Why didn''t I notice him?''- but my thoughts were answered when he spoke again. "Because you''re too busy with your phone. Who were you calling?" he asked in a serious tone. He also walked over to the bed with both hands in his pockets and sat down next to me. "I - It''s Sandy. I''ve been trying to call her but she hadn''t picked up my call." I gulped as I clutched my phone. "Was she also the one who you were texting?" I looked at him and I wanted to ask him... ''why are you asking?'' but seeing the seriousness on his face as he looked at me made me swallow my question. "Yes," I answered shortly and looked away. I don''t want him to know why I tried to call Sandy. "Madi..." But when I heard him mentioned my name, I had no choice but to look at him again. "Did you tell Nancy or even Dad about our deal?" I frowned and straightened my seat. "No! I didn''t tell them anything. Why?" "Because I think Dad already has an idea about our deal." "How do you say that... I mean.. how did you know? Are you sure?" I faced him this time. "No, but I know Dad. He wouldn''t give me such advice." "What advice?" I asked confused. But he just shook his head. "Nothing, it was just some fatherly advice." and then he sighed. And I didn''t say anything. "Madi, we have to double our act in front of them." My eyes widened. What did he say? "What do you mean, by doubling our act?" "We have to be sweeter and show them that we''re so much in love with each other." I chuckled at him. I found it funny. Oh, God, I feel like I''m digging my own hole for this. "Madi, I''m serious." This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org. I stopped myself fromughing and sighed. "Okay, ao what do you want me to do?" I asked him as I turned serious. "Just follow my lead." "What?" "I mean, act with me, hug me every time they were around." "But that''s what I''ve been doing. I even kissed you in front of Nancy, remember?" "Yes, but we have to be careful this time, Madi. I think Dad was just cooperating with us, I''m not sure. That''s why we have to be sweeter and seem in love with each other." "Alright, but don''t touch me." I raised an eyebrow but he frowned. "What do you mean by don''t touch you?" "You can hug and kiss me and that''s all! No... you know... something----" "Sex. Is that what you mean?" he asked with his eyes full of amusement. "Yes," I answered biting my lip. And he suddenlyughed. "Don''t worry love, I won''t touch you if that''s what you want. Not unless you want it or you made the first move." "Huh!" my eyes widened, but I took the pillow and hit him in the face when heughed again. But the wise man used his arms to take my hits as heughed with his carefreeughter. "I''ll never do that! How dare you!" I kept hitting him. "You can''t say that, love." and continued to ept my hit. We ended up on top of the bed tired andughing. Lying on our back while his right arm was under my head and using it as my pillow. We both sighed and smiled at each other. Weid still in silence, no one speaks and no one moves. I was about to speak when he kissed me on my forehead and closed his eyes. I just sighed with a smile. I shook my head as I watched him sleep. It''s the first time I''ve seen him like this, so tired yet so peaceful in his sleep. His lips were partially parted. I bit my lip to restrain my hand from touching his face. He looks so handsome even in closed eyes. I wish I could vanish the pain that remains in his heart, but how can I do it when he''s the one who wants to stay in the dark? I sighed before turning to my side of the bed with his arm still under my head. I remember Sandy''s third andst message. Yeah, it''s difficult to keep the truth. It''s so hard to handle your new grown feelings with someone so close, but yet so far. You can''t even touch his hand, you can''t even call him ''mine''. But you still have to keep it in that ce, so you can still see him by your side, you can stillugh with him without him knowing your feelings. I smiled bitterly and brought my hand over my chest. It''s hard to pretend you love someone when you don''t, but it''s harder to pretend you don''t love someone when you really do. And with that, I tried to close my eyes hoping my sleep would visit me tonight. Chapter 36: Just another day of pretending Chapter 36: Just another day of pretending Ohh... dear God, I hate mornings! I hate waking up early! I hate taking a bath early! But this time I have no other choice. When I heard the sshing water from the bathroom, I remember I''m not being in my bedroom. I opened my left eye and closed it again. "Argh! Oh, my God! Why is there such a thing called morning? Why do we have to wake up early in the morning?" Iined to myself as I got upzily up on the bed, but still in half-closed eyes. Getting up, I was scratching my head. I know I have a bird''s nest in my head, but I don''t care. I was about to take my first step when I bumped into something hard and wet. "Argh!" I pushed it and opened my eyes feeling irritated. But as soon as I opened them, the handsome face of my smiling boss was the first thing that appeared in my sight. I crunched my eyebrows when he didn''t move. "Good morning, love. How''s your sleep?" his smile turned into a grin after seeing my creaky face. I was about to speak when my nose hit his fresh apple scent smell. And suddenly, water dripped from his wet hair andnded on his shoulder. My eyes followed the drops of water from his shoulder down to his bare chest and my mouth went dry as it continued to flow down on his toned stomach and to the white towel that loosely hanging on his waist. I gasped and my eyes widened as I realized what he was just wearing. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. "Oh my God, Gabriel Wilsons!" I pushed him on his chest. "Why? I''m not doing anything, love?" "Oh my goodness! Why are you just wearing a towel?" I averted my eyes away from his V-line. "Because I just got out of the shower. What should I supposed to wear---or do you want me to wear nothing?" and I screamed when he acted like he''s going to take off his towel. "Good gracious God, Gabriel!" I run immediately to the bathroom and I heard himughed before I mmed the door. "Argh!" I entered the shower room, but then his apple scent filled my nostrils. I sighed. "Haist! Just another day of pretending," I told myself before I started taking off my clothes. Thanks to their maids for putting all my bathroom essentials here. My favourite aloe vera shampoo, my honey vani soap and of course my honey vani in shower lotion. I don''t use hair conditioners. Why? Because I told you, I hate mornings, so I don''t have time to put it on my hair. My time is always limited in the morning. "Hmm... perfect," I muttered to myself after putting on my face cream. I just finished taking a bath. "Oh my! Tsk.tsk.tsk." I shake my head when I remember I didn''t bring my clothes inside. "Argh!" I pulled an extra towel to wrap in my hair as I wrapped the first one around my body. I opened the bathroom door and peeked my head out, and when I noticed that he''s no longer in the room, I stepped out and tiptoed towards his closet. Their maid has already arranged my stuff in one of his cabs inside. "Why do you walk on tiptoe?" I almost lost my bnce when Gabriel suddenly opened the door. I gripped the end of the towel in front of my chest. "Didn''t you know how to knock?" I red at him, but he just chuckled. "What do I need to knock in my own room?" he continued to walk inside. -''Yeah... why does he need to knock on his own room? Argh! stupid!''- I rolled my eyes and just walked normally to ''his'' closet. Yes, it''s his--- not mine. "What should I wear?" I asked myself scratching the side of my neck. "It''s a family pic... hmm... shorts? Dress?" I sighed, in the end, I just picked my nude sundress and nude t sandals. I don''t know why I love nude colours, maybe because they blended well with my skin colour. I just put on mascara and lip gloss. When I went back to the bedroom, I couldn''t help raising an eyebrow when I found him sitting in the corner of the bed with his phone in his hand. "You''re still here?" I checked my wristwatch and it''s fifteen minutes before seven in the morning. "I''m waiting for you." "Hmm... but why? I thought your Mom said, all the boys need to go early to the pic site?" "Yeah, but it''s still early." he stood up and put the phone in his back pocket. I just shrugged. "Let''s go?" I asked him but he looked at me and frowned. "Are you not going to bring your bag?" "What for? I already have my pouch." I showed him my small pouch with a cellphone,pact mirror, lip gloss and powder inside. "But that''s too small." I rolled my eyes and sighed. I know what he is talking about. "Tsk.Tsk. My dear love..." I patted his cheek with my free hand. "I''m not used to bringing my closet and makeup stand outside or wherever I go. I''m contented with this." I lifted my pouch and smiled. "My little beautiful pouch, with apact mirror, face powder and lip gloss, that''s all!" I shrugged. He then took my hand and intertwined with his. "You can go out without makeup or any girly stuff?" he asked again and I chuckled. "Yup, without any of it. Why? Does ''she'' brings all her things when you goi out?" His face suddenly turned serious. -''Ah-ow!''- I bit my lip... out of line. But then he miraculously answered my question. "Yes." I looked at him when he spoke. "She brings all her makeup and girly stuff every time we go out and have a family bonding like this." "Ohh... I see." that''s all my mouth can say. But my mind still has a lot of questions about ''her'', but I chose to keep it aside. His face remained serious until we reached the living room with my hand still in his. I just sighed and started wearing my best actress smile when I saw Sav and Chris on the couch ying with their toys. "Good morning kids." I greeted them. Their face lit when they both looked up at me. They both run towards me and I have to take my hand from Gabriel''s grasp to kneel and receive their hugs. "Careful Sav, Chris." I smiled when they both hugged me and kissed me on my cheeks. "Good morning Madi," they said in unison. "You look so beautiful today," Chris said smiling and kissed me on the cheek again. "Hey, stop kissing my girlfriend. She''s mine." I nced at the frowning Gabriel and was about tough if I didn''t remember that this is just an ''act''. "Gab, he''s just a kid!" I yfully red at him. And this is it. I know this is the beginning of what he said ''extra sweet and so much in love with each other''. "I know---" but he was cut off by Chris who''s grinning widely. "I was wrong Madi, I''m sorry." We both looked back at him. "What do you mean, Chris?" I asked him confused. "Sorry, but you''re not beautiful." I raised my eyebrow and Gabriel walked closer to us, grinning. "Because you looked lovely and gorgeous today," he added and kissed my forehead and both my cheeks. Gabriel''s grin disappeared and reced by a deep frown. Sav and I both giggled at Chris''s action, but the three of usughed together when we heard Gabriel yfully growl. "Don''t do that again, Christian Wilsons!" he red at Chris, but the kid justughed at him harder. "But why?" he asked innocently. "Because she''s my girlfriend and she''s mine, not yours!" I stood up, shaking my head. I looked at him and raised an eyebrow. -''Seriously? We need to act like this even in front of the kids?''- I asked him through my eyes and he nodded. It means he understands the silent question. He walked over to me and took my hand. "Love---" But his words stopped in mid-air when Chris spoke. "Okay fine, she''s yours, but remember Gab, when I have my girlfriend I won''t let you kiss and hug her or even touch her!" Gabriel and I both looked at each other and I bit my lip to stifle myughter. "Okay," Gabriel said ruffling the kid''s hair. I know he''s just holding back hisugh. He then dragged me into the kitchen and stopped when we were about three or four steps away from the door. "Why?" I asked him looking directly in his eyes. "Remember what we talked aboutst night?" he whispered to my ear. I gripped my pouch when his lips brushed my earlobe. "Yeah, don''t worry, I haven''t forgotten about it yet." I smiled and was about to take a step when he suddenly pulled me and wrapped his arms around me. I wanted to ask him why, but I got it when his Mom suddenly appeared in the kitchen''s door. "Ohh... my children, good morning." she greeted us with a wide smile. "Good morning, Ma." we both greeted her back in unison. Except that I didn''t mention the word ''Ma''. "How''s your sleep?" there''s a hidden meaning on her question, but I just let Gabriel answered it. "It was great," he answered briefly. But she raised an eyebrow. "Just great?" "Ma?" he red at her. "Okay, fine." she shrugged with a grin before walking back to the living room. I sighed loudly when she disappeared from our sight. He smiled at me and kissed me on the forehead. "It will be okay, just keep on my side, okay?" I smiled and nodded. Then we went back to the living room with his hand on my lower back. Chapter 37: Its too late Chapter 37: It''s toote On our way to the pic site, I''m with Nancy in her car with Sav and Chris in the back seat. Gabriel is with the boys and they go to theke right after having breakfast earlier. The kids and I were dancing our heads to Justine Timbeke''s music ''Can''t stop the feeling'' ying on the car radio when Nancy suddenly changed the station. It''s exactly a heartbreak song. I looked in the rearview mirror and saw the two kids frown at their cousin''s back. I sighed, but then I tried to listen to the song. **Why can''t it be.. why can''t it be the two of us? Why can''t we be lovers? Only friends. You came along at a wrong ce, at a wrong time or was it me.** I immediately turned it back to its previous station earlier. Nancy nced at me. "Why did you change the song?" she asked me with amusement dancing in her eyes. I gulped and tried to think a better reason. "Uhm... the kids didn''t like the song. And it''s unsuitable for their age." I answered without looking at her. "Right kids?" I turned my head to look at the two who are now enjoying the cheerful song. "Ahh... okay," she said nodding. I suddenly felt ufortable with her, so I just looked out the window. -''Why can''t be? Why can''t be the two of us? Huh! It will never happen.''- I sighed as I leaned my head against the window. I closed my eyes for a while, but then I remember suddenly Sandy. -''Right! I need to call her!''- I took my phone inside my pouch and scrolled through my contacts and didn''t hesitate to call when I saw her number even though I''m with someone in the car. And this time, she picked up the call on the second ring. "Madi." her voice sounded so low and defeated. "Where are you?" I asked frowning. "Home," she answered shortly. "Okay. So, can you exin to me what is happening to you and why were you seemed so defeated?" I heard her sigh. "Sandy?" Because I''m too focused on talking to her, I didn''t notice we''d already reached the pic site until Nancy called my attention. "Sissy, is it okay if we go to the tent already?" "Yeah, sure." I nodded and smiled. "What about you?" "I''m okay, you can go ahead. I''ll just talk to my friend." I smiled again. "Okay," she said before closing the door. The kids had already gotten out of the car. When they have finally gone, I leaned back in my seat and find the best position to getfortable. "Wait--- what was that? Sissy? Tent? Where are you?" Sandy asked me after a while. "I''m in Belleville." "B-Belleville? What are you doing there?" I can imagine her forehead knitted in confusion. "I''m with Gabriel''s parents. I mean, we... we were at his parents'' house." "What?" she asked raising her voice. "What is happening Madi? Why were you there and why were you with Mr Wilsons?" "Wait! Wait, Sandy! I-I didn''t call you to interrogate me. This is about you that''s why I called. And why we are here, well, I have an exnation for that. But what I want to know is about you? What''s happening to you?" I heard her sigh again. "And Sandy, what''s with your messagesst night? Those heartbreak quotes that you sent me. What''s the story behind those quotes?" "Madi..." she suddenly seemed about to cry. "What? Are you okay, do you have a problem with your boyfriend---" "I''m in love, Madi!" she said after interrupting me. "What? Y-Your in love?" I chuckled in my seat. "Sandy, are you kidding me? What''s the problem with that, I mean, you and your boyfriend just celebrated your third monthsary---" "Not with him! I mean, I''m in love Madi, but not with him." "W-What did you say? What is this, Sandy? He''s your boyfriend and he should be the only person you''re supposed to be in love with!" "Yeah, I know and that''s the problem, Madi. He''s my boyfriend but I don''t love him. I''m in love with someone else. I''ve fallen in love with someone else." "Oh, my God, Sandy," I said bringing my hand over my chest. "May I know who this someone else that you''re talking about?" She sighed before giving me a shocking answer. "Troy. I''m in love with Troy, Madi." My eyes widened in shock. If there is anything you can call--- over than the word shocked, I think that''s what I felt after hearing her answer. "What?" I almost screamed inside the car and didn''t notice how Gabriel ran towards me when he saw me clutch my chest. But what he didn''t know was that it was just an ordinary talk with his secretary. "You''re in love with him? H-How did it happen, I mean, when did this happen?" "I don''t know, Madi. It just happened one day when I woke up and I realized I''m in love with him." "I-I don''t know what to say, Sandy."I sighed. "So, what''s your n?" "Nothing." she chuckled at the other line, but I know it''s fake. "What do you mean by nothing?" "Nothing. What am I supposed to do? He''s in love with someone else and that someone else is you." "Sandy..." Then someone knocked on the car window. I turned to see Gabriel with his one-line eyebrows. I unlocked the door and he immediately opened it with concern in both his eyes. "Love, what happened?" I was left speechless with his question. For sure Sandy heard his voice on the other line. "Love? Madi, seriously?" I heard Sandy''s question then Gabriel asked me again. "Love, are you okay? What happened? Who were you talking to?" he asked inspecting my whole face and both arms. Although I got confused with his action, I couldn''t find any words to say, because my ears were both listening to their questions. "Wow! Love... is in the air! Are you seriously acting your best right now to impress his family?" "Love?" "Tsk.Tsk. Madi, I''m warning you... what you''re doing right now can be a start to make you fall in love with him." My thoughts suddenly stopped with what Sandy told me. I looked at Gabriel who was still staring at me with questions in his eyes. -''You''re toote for that, Sandy. I''ve already fallen in love with him.''- "Love, who''s that?" "Madi, remember, he''s not gotten over with his ex-girlfriend yet." "Love?" "Argh! Oh my God! Can you just ask me one by one?" I screamed in frustration and then looked at Gabriel''s shocked face with Sandy still on the other line. "Love, I''m fine, I''m just talking to Sandy." I sighed and then turned to Sandy on the phone. "Sandy, can I just call youter?" "Oh my God! You''re really choosing your boyfriend over me---" "Sandy!" I cut her off as she emphasized the word boyfriend. "We''ve already talked about this thing many times before. Sandy please?" "Okay, fine!" "I''m going to call youter, but please, please answer your phone!" "Okay, what time are you going to call?" she sounded upset. "Maybe after lunch?" I bit my lip because I''m not even sure if can really call her by that time or if I have extra time to make a call. "Madi, make sure to call me after lunch! I''ll be waiting for your call." "I will." I sighed. "Okay, bye." She ended the call and then I faced the serious yet frowning Gabriel. "Was it Ms Agur?" "Yes," I answered as I put the phone back inside my pouch. I was about to unbuckle my seat belt when he took it from my hand and did it for me. So, I just watched him until he offered his hand in front of me. I grabbed it and slid my foot to the ground. "Why did she call you? Was it rted to her work?" he asked when we''re already walking towards the four by four (4¡Á4) tent, with his palm on my lower back. "No. It''s not about work and actually, I was the who called her." And even if he didn''t ask the follow-up question, which I know he would--- I''ve already given him the possible answer, if ever. "I''ve been trying to call herst night, but remember, she didn''t pick up any of it." N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "Okay." he nodded. And as we getting closer to the tent, he pulled me closer to him and whispered in my ear. "Just act naturally, okay?" I looked at him and nodded. I saw him sigh heavily and kissed me on the forehead before we started smiling our most practised smile. Chapter 38: Will you marry me? Chapter 38: Will you marry me? "Guess what boys!" Aunt Cindy squealed excitedly. And we all turned our heads to her. We were all seated and were about to start eating. "What is it?" Uncle Jhon asked his wife and Aunt Cindy''s smile widened "Can you guess who made the cheesy pesto chicken and veggie-stuffed spaghetti squash for our lunch today?" All the boys shared nces and then suddenly Gabriel sitting next to me shouted his answer. "For sure that''s Nancy, Aunt Cindy." He said out loud and chuckled which also earnedughter from the boys. But Nancy just raised an eyebrow and winked at me. She didn''t get affected by her brother''s bully. "Nope. Gabriel, you know Nancy can''t cook, what are you talking about?" Nancy and I chuckled at him. But he yfully red at Nancy. Because the boys were already at the pic area, they actually had no clue about Aunt Cindy''s question. "Then who?" asked of confused yet excited Phillip. "Who else---" she didn''t finish her sentence when she was cut off by Justine. "You?" "No. It''s Madi. She made this delicious lunch for us." she said pping her hands. And then suddenly all eyes were on me. "Whoa! You cooked this, Madi?" I bit my lip and then smiled at Uncle Jhon. "Yes, and she also baked the chocte liquor cake." Aunt Cindy proudly answered for me. "Wow! You know how to cook, Madi?" Mr Wilsons asked me. "Yes, Dad," I answered awkwardly. I can feel everyone''s stares at the table, but there is a pair of eyes which made my feet sweat and that person was just right next to me. He held my hand under the table and I looked at him. He''s smiling at me. I was about to open my mouth when suddenly he cupped my face with both his hands and the next thing I know... he''s kissing me... in front of everyone. He bit my bottom lip when I didn''t respond to his kiss, so I kissed him back and put my hand on his waist, tugging his shirt. When he pulled back, he still has the same smile before he kissing me. If I have to judge it with my own eyes, it''s a smile of proud. "I love you." My breath stuck in my throat when he said those three words. Why do I feel it was true? Why do I feel this is real? Or it''s just my heart... assuming it could possibly happen? "I love you too." I smiled at him. The smile which wasn''t fake or just an act. It was a real smile that came from my heart. Then he kissed me again. And all the people watching our little act, pped their hands and the boys let out a whistle. But when I thought that, that little act will end there, well, I was wrong. Suddenly he stood up, kissed my forehead and then walked over to the microphone stand. Yes, there''s a microphone and entertainment set because their family is a fan of music. We all watched him as he stood in front of us with a microphone in his hand. And then he began his speech. At first, I was in a state of confusion but then I remember what we talked about before we got here. "I''ve been thinking of this so many times before...." He started looking at everyone. I got my lips wet because they suddenly went dry. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org. "I''ve been in my worst part of my life before and I know you all know it, even Savahna and Christian." He paused and then smiled. All eyes were focused on him, waiting for his next words. "I wanted to start a new life, a new beginning and a new chapter. But I think, I can''t do it without this woman in my life. Without her by my side." My heart started pounding inside my ribcage when our eyes met. "This woman who stood by me and made me realize the word ''second chances'' in life. She created this new version of me." With his words, I couldn''t help shaking my head and closing my eyes. How I wished all his words were true and how I wished they were all really for me, but no. These are just lies. We are just lying in front of these people who really believed that he''s the new version of himself, who wants to start his new life with me, but the truth is that he''s just doing it for one person and just for one reason... to im her back. "I want you guys to know how thankful I am for having her in my life. How lucky I am for having someone like her to loved and to be loved back." I bit my lip as a single tear flow down my cheek. Then it was followed by another and then by another until I could no longer control it. Everyone witnessing my tears, thought it was because of love and happiness. Well, half of it was true but the other half was mixed feelings of hurt, conscience and sadness. He walked over to where my seat, made me stand and pulled me in front of everyone as he held my hand. "Madielyn Davis, I want you to know how much I love you. How much all the things we shared meant to me. I want you to be part of my life forever." I gasped as he suddenly knelt on one knee and took a small red box on the back of his pants. "I was really trying to think of a clever way to say this. I tried to think of something romantic way to make it special ande up with a poem or a song because I know you also love music. But nothing came to my mind, so I''ll just say it. Madielyn Davis, love, I love you with all my heart. You make me happy, youplete me and I want you to be my wife. Will you marry me?" He opened the red box and there is the ring with a huge white diamond In the center. Even how many times I tried to swallow the lump inside my throat, I still couldn''t control the tears that keep flowing down my face. This is the next level. Am I really sure of this? Am I willing to help him up to this level? Am I willing to be his wife just to help him or will I have to decide right now to end this game? All of them were cheering yes and please in the air. I looked at them one by one and then back to Gabriel. His face held his silent pleas... waiting for me to cooperate. I gulped. "Yes. I will marry you." Chapter 39: The engagement Chapter 39: The engagement He put the ring on my finger and got up immediately. He lifted me by my waist and spun me around as heughed and shouted ''yes and thank you'' at the same time. When he put me down, he wiped those tears of pain and sadness from my face. He hugged me tightly and kissed me again, but at that time I didn''t wait for him to bite my lips just to kiss him back. I kissed him already the moment he captured my lips. I kissed him back like I never felt a single pain. I showed him and everyone what''s the real emotion of a supposed to be the bride. "Thank you, love," he said after pulling back and kissing my forehead. I nodded and smiled at him. "I love you," he said looking to my eyes as he cupped both my cheeks. And there is again, that look. The look on his eyes as if he were pleading. And my stupid heart instantly melts just by looking at him. "I love you too." I bit my lips as the stupid lone tear came out my left eye. And then he hugged me again. When I looked at the people, they were still pping their hands. I smiled at them, but I frowned when my eyesnded on Nancy''s face. She''s smiling and watching his brother as he epts the congrattions and cheers from his family. But there''s one thing I''ve noticed. Yes, she''s also smiling, but the smile on her face doesn''t look like the smile of full happiness, and it doesn''t reach her eyes. When she noticed that I am looking at her, she smiled and immediately walked closer to me. She pulled me into a tight hug. "Thank you, Madi." I gulped after hearing her thanks. To my surprise, she wiped my now dried tear and she smiled again. "You really loved my brother. I can see it in your eyes." my breath suddenly stuck in my throat. "Are you a mind reader?" I tried to joke. "No. I''m an eye and emotion reader, Madi." my jaws dropped with her words and the serious look on her face. "Just kidding!" she said after a while and God knows how I let out a sigh of relief. "Of course, I can see it in your eyes and tears. Those were the tears of happiness, right?" "Huh? A-Ahm...y-yeah. Those were tears of happiness.." I nced at Gabriel as I said the next line. "... and love for your brother." She smiled. "I know." Their Aunts and cousins also expressed their gratitude as Aunt Cindy hugged me tightly and caressed my left cheek. "Thank you, Madi." I just smiled at her and momentster, Gabriel''s parents were also in front of me. Mrs Wilsons also hugged me after drying her tears. "Oh, my dear Madi. Thank you foring into my son''s life. Thank you for bringing his smile and happiness back into his life and for being his sunshine, Madi.". "Mrs Wils------ Ma, you don''t really have to thank me. I just loved your son and his happiness is mine too." She hugged me again. But then Mr Wilsons patted me on the shoulder. "Madi, thank you for loving my son and epting him despite his rudeness." we chuckled at his words. "But honestly, thanks for helping him get back to himself." "Your wee Dad." I smiled at him and he hugged me too. "Ahem..." we all turned to look at Gabriel behind his father. "Can I now talk, hug and kiss my ''fiance''?" he asked emphasizing the word fiancee. And they all give way to him as he walked closer to me. I just scratched the side of my neck while looking at him. "Hi, love." I held my breath as my stupid heart couldn''t help but feel the excitement inside even though she knows that this is just an act. His hands encircled my waist and I gasped when he pulled me with a light force on his body. He then brought his lips near my ear and whispered. "Thank you, Madi." "Your wee, love, but I''m hungry. I can''t stand here any longer and kiss you back when my intestines scream inside my stomach--- ''Madi, feed me." They allughed at my joke. Yeah, I just choose to express all of my feelings in a joke, so I can still exin myselfter that it''s okay, it will be okay. Just smile because I''m ''Madi'' and you already know its meaning when I say I''m ''Madi''. The ever confident, strong and beautiful Madi. "Okay, what are we waiting for? Let''s eat. Gabriel, serve your fianc¨¦e whatever she wants." My future fake-mother-inw emphasized the word fianc¨¦e before she winked at me. "Of course, Ma," he said smiling and pulled me back to where I sat earlier. He helped me with my chair and let me sat down first. I couldn''t help raising an eyebrow, remembering our first ''talk'' in my restaurant. He didn''t even pull my chair, instead, he ordered me to sit down. And its the opposite of what he did just now. But like his mother, he too winked at me. He sat down next to me with a smile not leaving on his lips. My mouth fell open when he put almost every type of food on my te. "Love, what are you doing?" I asked him, frowning. "Giving you food---oh I''m sorry!" so, does that mean, he didn''t know what he''s doing? Because of that, he earnedughter from all the people around the table, but I just shook my head. "Gabriel, I said you serve your fianc¨¦e, but that doesn''t mean, you will serve her to death!" Mrs Wilsons red at her son which added to theugher of his cousins including me. I helped him take some food from my te and transferred it to his te. But we were about to start eating when a ck Maserati suddenly pulled over next to Nancy''s car. And since it''s not a tinted ss, we can clearly see the person inside. And a smile instantly crept on my lips when I recognized who the owner of that car was. It''s Greg. But the question is--- what is he doing here? "Gregy!" Nancy squealed in excitement and immediately ran towards her cousin. When I nced at Gabriel, I noticed that he had a serious expression on his face. Doesn''t he feel happy because one of his cousins visited his family? Greg and Nancy hugged each other and headed for the tent. Gabriel''s mother hugged him tightly. "I missed you, Greg. How''s Cynthia? I also missed her." she asked him with a smile on her face. As I remember, that was the name of Greg''s mother. "She''s fine Auntie and she misses you too." Greg smiled and his cute dimple shows on his face. "Gregy boy!" Gabriel''s father also hugged him followed by all the boys on the table. Greg seems really close to Gabriel''s family. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "Gabriel!" Greg greeted Gabriel next to me and I nced him. His face doesn''t show any emotions just in and serious. And I couldn''t help but wonder. Are they also close or they have gaps between them? "Greg." he stood up and epted Greg''s hand. And then suddenly Greg turned to me. "Hi, Madi." he smiled at me and I returned his smile. "Hi, Greg." he kissed me on the cheek. And because I got busy smiling at him, I missed the hard re that Gabriel gave his cousin. "How are you?" he asked me again. "I''m fine. How about you?" "Well, same as yours." and he gave me his boyish chuckle. "You know each other?" Mr Wilsons suddenly asked the both of us and I was about to answer when Greg answered him first. "Yes, Uncle Jonas. We met at the WEC, she''s Gabriel''s assistant," he said not looking at him but me. I frowned with his answer, but he just smiled and winked at me. -''ohh... okay.''- I just muttered to myself. Maybe this is his way of keeping his promise to keep my secret. "I see because you two seems to know each other so well." Mr Wilsons nodded. "Okay, that''s enough. We can continue thister, but for now, let''s eat." Mrs Wilsons said gesturing us to sit down. "Gregy, there''s a vacant seat here," Nancy called him to sit next to her which is exactly opposite my seat, but then he happily obliged. I was shocked when Gabriel pulled me and kissed me all of a sudden, not just a simple kiss but a hard one. What is happening to him? And when he pulled back, he smirked at Greg who''s now sitting next to Nancy. "Whoa! What was that?" Greg asked in surprise, his eyes were moving from me and Gabriel. "They''re engaged," Nancy answered him. "Ohh... w-wow!" he said as if he couldn''t believe what he heard. And the man next to me, who suddenly kissed me, grabbed my hand under the table and brought it to his lips. And the diamond ring shines in Greg''s eyes. Chapter 40: Selfish Gabriel Chapter 40: Selfish Gabriel After our lunch, Gabriel received a phone call and I felt my heart clenched when I saw the name and image of the person calling him. It''s Stacey. I looked away from the screen of his phone but my eyes met Greg''s gaze. I smiled at him and he reciprocated it. "Love, I''ll just take this," Gabriel said, kissing me on the forehead. I just nodded and he walked away about ten meters away from the tent. Maybe if we were in a different situation, I would ask him who is that person calling him and why does he have to walk away just to answer it? I sighed as I looked back at Greg whose eyes followed Gabriel''s action. Five minutes passed and I turned to look at Gabriel, but he still on the phone. And when everyone got up to start the music bonding, I got up too and told Nancy that I would just take a walk along the lakeside. I took my phone and checked if there some messages or missed calls because I put it in silent mode before getting out of the car earlier, but I don''t have any. I sighed and looked at my reflection from the water and I almost jumped when someone suddenly patted me on the shoulder. I turned and saw Greg smiling widely. "I''m sorry." He chuckled. "Remember I told you not to drink too much coffee?" Iughed at him. That was his favourite line back in college every time he saw me drinking coffee because as he said it it would only worsen my nervousness inside. "So, you''re engaged." It was not a question. "Greg, I - I..." I don''t know how to exin it to him or should I really need to exin? "I know everything, Madi." I gulped as my head instantly snapped at him. "W-What do you mean?" I asked him confused. "I know everything, the deal, the contract, the engagement and the reason why you''re here." "H-How did you know that?" "Gabriel told me everything. He''s also my best friend, Madi." "Ohh..." "But don''t worry, I understand. And as for your secret, it''s still safe." he winked at me and I just smiled. "So, you know everything," I said as I sighed. It''s not also a question but a statement. "Yes." he shrugged. "You know what, I still don''t get it. Why did you agree to this deal?" he asked with all seriousness on his face. "Greg, I---" But my words hung in mid-air when we heard Gabriel''s voice a few meters behind us. We turned around only to see him frowning. "Greg!" "Gabriel." Greg greeted, smiling, but he didn''t even nce at him, instead, he made his way over to me and put his hand on my lower back in a possessive manner. Greg even though Greg got confused with his action, he just raised an eyebrow and let out a boyish grin. "Love, what are you doing here?" he asked me with his knitted eyebrows. Well, I started to get confused too, because Greg said, he knows everything, but why does Gabriel need to pretend even in front of his cousin. "Gabriel, we don''t have to pretend in front of him. He knows everything. He knows the agreement." I said looking directly into his eyes. But he didn''t say anything, it''s just that the way he grips my waist, slightly tightened. "Let''s go back to the tent," he muttered instead. "Huh!" I sneered and just shook my head. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Greg''s POV: "Bro..." I followed Gabriel to the mini-bar inside their house. I sat down on one of the mahogany stools next to him. But he just nced at me so quickly and turned his eyes back to a ss of alcohol in his hand. "So, you''re now engaged, huh?" I asked him, filling my ss with the same drink as his. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "What are you doing here? And how did you know that I''m here?" "Well, I went to your house, but your maid told me that you flew here to Belleville and since I also missed your parents and Nancy, I decided to follow you here. Why? You seemed not happy to see me here, cousin." He didn''t answer me. He just brought his drink to his mouth. I looked at him suspiciously and shook my head. "Maybe I know the reason why you''re not happy to see me here." I gulped my drink and noticed that he turned his head on me. "Because of her. Because of Madi, am I right?" "Stop it, Greg!" he said in a low, but serious tone and I just chuckled at him. "Stop from what, Gabriel? I''m not doing anything." "Stop flirting with Madi, she''s my fianc¨¦e now!" And with that, I tried to swallow the content inside my mouth beforeughing again. "Fianc¨¦e? I thought it was just an act? I thought you were just pretending?" "Yes, it was just an act and we were just pretending, but I don''t like it when you''re flirting with her!" he looked around before lowering his voice. "Flirting? Seriously Gabriel? I wasn''t flirting with her. She''s just a friend of mine." "Yes you are and I know you like her!" "Oh, is it because I told you that I like her?" I really wanted tough at his expression. He''s like a real boyfriend... jealous of his cousin. "No! It''s because I noticed how you looked at her earlier!" And Iughed again. "Why Gabriel? Why were you so affected by the way I looked at her? Are you jealous?" "Of course not!" he snapped at me but then quickly avoided my gaze. "Then why are you acting so possessive over her? Let me remind you, Gabriel, this is just an act. Yes, she''s now your fianc¨¦e, but only in words and not in reality. You don''t even have a contract to call it a legal agreement." "Just stay away from her!" "What if I don''t?" I said, teasing him. Trying to figure out how he would react. "I''m serious, Greg!" "And so I am. I told you I like her." "Bullshit, Greg! You only met her once and you like her in that instant?" I couldn''t help but smile at his ring nostrils. Deep in my mind... -''What if I tell you, that I''ve known her for almost eight years and not just once, unlike what you''re implying?''- "What if I tell you that... it''s love at first sight and I love her now and not just a simple like that?" That''s true. I fell in love with her since I saw her in our college cooking ss. "That''s so much of a cliche, Greg! Can you think of any other reason other than that?" "But it''s true. I''ve loved her since the day I met her!" yes, but I couldn''t shout the truth because of Madi. "I''m warning you, Greg, stay away from Madi!" and he gulped thest content of his drinks. "And I''m also warning you, bro. Don''t fall in love with her! She''s mine and I''ll wait for her until your deal ends." I smirked at him. But he just raised an eyebrow and returned the smirk to me. "Are you sure to wait for her until our deal ends? Then start to wait from now until forever!" with that he left me dumbfounded sitting alone in the mini-bar. I chuckled after he''s gone. "You''re not going to fall in love with her, huh? But you''re starting to cover her up with your ws. She''s not you''re type, huh? But now you''re acting like a jealous and possessive jerk towards her? You''re selfish, Gabriel! You''re selfish!" Chapter 41: Stay with me Chapter 41: Stay with me Madi''s POV: I saw Gabrieling from the minibar, the moment Aunt Morgan asked me the question I didn''t expect to hear. "Madi, how many boyfriends did you have before you met Gabriel?" I was taken aback by her sudden and blunt question. "Morgan! That''s a personal question, you shouldn''t ask her that. That''s rude!" Even her husband was shocked by what she asked. Well actually, all of us were shocked. "It''s okay, Uncle James, it''s not a big deal," I said smiling. "Hi, love." Gabriel sat down next to me and held my hand. "What''s that.. what''s not a big deal?" I looked at him and Aunt Morgan repeated her question. "I was asking Madi, if how many boyfriends did she have before you came into her life?" It''s getting more awkward now that I can feel Gabriel''s eyes on my face and his grip on my hand has tightened. It feels like someone is asking me if I am still a virgin in front of him. "Actually, Aunt Morgan, I''ve never been in a rtionship before---" "As in never?" Nancy cut me off. "Yeah, I mean never." I shrugged but tried my best not to look at Gabriel''s face. "So, does that mean Gabriel is your first boyfriend?" Aunt Morgan''s eyeballs almost popped out of their sockets. I bit my lips as I nodded awkwardly. "You are so damn lucky, Gabriel!" Nancy eximed in a louder voice. "Nancy, yournguage!" her father red at her and before she could react, we heard Greg''sugh. He also came from the mini-bar. "Yes, Nancy''s right. Gabriel is indeed lucky to have Madi in his life," he smirked at Gabriel and I can''t help raising an eyebrow. I nced at Gabriel only to see him with the same smirk as Greg. But I gasped when he suddenly lifted me and ced me on hisp. He wrapped his hands around my waist and gave me a quick kiss on the lips. "Yeah, I''m so lucky to win your heart and I will never let you go no matter what. I won''t let those men who want to take you away from me. You''re just mine and will always be mine." he said looking into my eyes. He kissed me before ncing at Greg and smirked. I gulped as my eyes widened in surprise. Why do I feel something is happening between the two of them? Based on their exchange of smiles and odd nces at each other, Gabriel doesn''t seem pleased with Greg''s sudden appearance while thetter seems to be enjoying Gabriel''s annoyance. "I believe Greg." We all turned to Mr Wilsons who''s looking seriously at his son. "You''re indeed lucky, son, to have Madi in your life. I hope you''ll always appreciate her efforts, give her the time and love she deserves. Take care of her, son." That''s the second time I have heard Mr Wilsons gave his advice on ''how Gabriel should love me and take care of me''. Does he know the truth? Or we''re just both being paranoid because of lying to them? "Of course, Dad," he said seriously that you can''t even hear a hint of a lie in his voice. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * I don''t know how many times I let out a heavy sigh since I came out on the terrace of Gabriel''s room. I suddenly want to be alone and think of everything. Am I wrong or I am just a fool? I remember the day, I saw Gabriel in the mall, stealing nces at his ex-girlfriend. Iughed at him and called him ''stupid and the biggest fool I''ve ever met, for following her, for hiring someone to monitor her and for hoping that someday she woulde back into his life. But now I think, I am also one of those people who needs to join the parade of fools on the street and the one who needs to build her monument for being stupid. I fell in love with my boss. I fell in love with him. How stupid, right? I mean, how could I exin this feeling? I''m happy when he''s happy, I feel sad when he''s sad and I can also feel the pain inside his heart. I sighed, shaking my head with a bitter smile. How did I end up falling in love with him when I know he''s still in love with her? When I know he can''t look at me differently? I rubbed my arms when I felt the cold breeze embraced me and shivered a little at its cold touch. "Why are you here? Do you want to catch colds?" I heard Gabriel''s voice as I also felt something warm on my shoulders. I looked at him and noticed he put a jacket on me. "Thank you," I said smiling at him. He didn''t say anything. He just sighed and watched the pool water glisten with the moonlights above. "Thank you, Madi." I nced at him, frowning. I don''t know why he''s saying thank you. "For what?" "For staying, for helping me and for everything." Then he smiled at me, a smile that didn''t even reach his eyes. And I have to look away before I find myself melting from the pain. "Gabriel, why do we have to pretend? I mean, why do we have to do this? Why do you have to act as if you''ve already moved on from your past?" He chuckled suddenly. "Madi, I''ve already told you the reason, to get her back and punish her." "Just to punish her?" I sighed when he fell silent after I asked that question. Haist... I wonder why I still asked when the answer is already dancing in front of me. "Just to punish her." and he answered finally. "Why do you have to punish her?" "To make her feel the pain I suffered when she left. When she decided to choose someone else over me!" And that''s my turn tough. A bitter kind ofugh. "Then you don''t really love her if you want to punish her!" he looked at me like I have grown two heads. "Because if you do, you will let her go and be happy for the life she has chosen. You will not punish her for what she has done because you love her, and that means you don''t want her to get hurt or even feel a single pain." "Madi, what do you understand? You don''t even have a boyfriend!" his voice rose as his both eyes were boring holes mine. Ohh... that was a low blow. "She hurt me! She left me heartbroken, torn apart! I became like this because of her! And you won''t understand because you aren''t the one who suffered the pain!" I don''t know but I just found myselfughing...ughing again in pain. "Wow, Gabriel! Do you think I don''t understand your pain? I do, Gabriel!" I said pointing to my chest and having the same tone of voice he gave me. "I do understand every little inch of it! And I don''t need to suffer the pain that you had and suffered just for me to understand you, because if I don''t, I won''t stay here next to you, lying and helping you with your stupid game!" I looked away as I can feel my temper rising from what he said. If I don''t understand him, I won''t sacrifice myself and my happiness just to be tied to him. If only I could force my heart not to fall in love with him, I would. If only I could ease and vanish his pain and suffering due to his past... I will definitely do it without even him asking me. "Why are you telling me this, Madi?" I sighed but I chose to ignore his question. "Do you know why I cried when you asked me to marry you earlier?" I haven''t heard his answer so I continued. "Because I suddenly felt guilty and sad at the same time because I really wanted to help you let out all the pain and show you the ''second chances in life'' like what you said while proposing to me. I want you to see those better opportunities in life, Gab. If she''s really meant for you, then she''s for you. And if not, learn to let go. Let her go." "No, Madi," he said shaking his head and Iughed again. -''Fucking shit!''- "I can''t. I''ve already nned all this and you know that." "Do you know what''s the best revenge you can give to those people who have hurt you the most? It''s to show them that you''re now happily moved on and giving yourself another chance to be happy again." I walked over to him and took both of his hands. "Because hating her and holding on to what she did, you can''t heal, Gab. Because this pain inside you...." I lifted my finger to point at his left chest. "... will remain until you finally allow yourself to let them go." "That''s why I''m doing all of this! I''m going to show her that I''ve moved on and that I''m happy!" "No, Gabriel. Don''t do all this for her. Do this for yourself and not for her." He didn''t say anything. He was silent until I noticed him sigh and looked at me while my hands were still on his. "Are you backing out now, Madi?" N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. I don''t know where he got that question. I was just giving him advice but I didn''t say I''m backing out with his deal. "Tell me, Madi, are you backing out now?" There''s a certain emotion in his eyes that I couldn''t read. "Gab---" "No, Madi." and he suddenly hugged me. "No, please stay with me. I can''t do this without you," he said as he repeatedly kissed the top of my head. "Gabriel..." What''s going on with him? He pulled back and hold both of my shoulders as he looked directly into my eyes. "Madi, please?" He closed his eyes and then let out a heavy sigh before opening them again. "Madi, please stay with me. If you don''t want me to kiss you in front of my family, then I won''t. Just stay with me until I''m done with this and until I finally figure out everything." Figure out everything? What is going on with him? He''s like my boyfriend begging me not to leave him and to stay with him. "Gabriel! What are you talking about? I didn''t say anything about backing out. And what do you mean figure out everything? What are those things you need to figure out?" He looked at me puzzled. "So you''re not backing out?" "No," I replied shaking my head. "Thank you, love." he sighed in relief and hugged me again. "Just have patience with me, please and I promise I won''t be a jerk anymore not even in the office." Iughed at his promise. "Do you really promise that?" "Yes, I promise." Iughed again when he raised his palm as a sign of promise. "Pinky swear?" I show my smallest finger and heughed at me too, but then he epted it. "Pinky swear." And we bothughed at the childish gesture. But deep inside of me, I wished we could stay that way forever. "What would I do to you if you started being a jerk again?" I asked, raising an eyebrow. "p me." My eyes widened a bit. "Are you sure of that, Gabriel Wilsons?" I asked him emphasizing his name, but he just chuckled. "Yes, love, you can p me or do whatever you want if I bing a jerk again." "Okay, thates from your mouth, ahh?" I chuckled and shivered when I felt again the cold wind blow all over my skin. His eyebrows knitted when he noticed me and took both of my hands. "You''re cold," he said rubbing my hands and I couldn''t but smile when he blew a warm breath on them. "Yucks!" I said in the form of a joke. And his serious face turned into a yful one. He continued to blow his warm breath on my hands. "Gabriel! That''s disgusting! You''re not helping me anymore!" I said trying to pull my hands. "No, love. You''re cold." "Eww!" I screamed when he bit my fingertips. He''s really enjoying it. "I will kick your precious jewels if you keep doing it!" I said stomping my left foot. And it worked. He stopped what he was doing and looked at me. He even let go of my hands. "Precious jewels?" "Yes, precious jewels," I repeated proudly. "Did you call my balls precious jewels?" he asked in disbelief. "Yes, and I---" I didn''t get the chance to finish my sentence when heughed. Heughed so hard that he had to clutch his stomach. I scratched the tip of my eyebrow. -''What''s with the ''precious jewels''?''- "Ohh love.. please you can kick any part of my body just not these two precious jewels of mine. How can I be a Dad someday? How can we give our parents their grandchildren?" he winked at me. And my lips curled up into a smile. "Hahaha... so funny!" And I rolled my eyes. Chapter 42: Can we be friends? Chapter 42: Can we be friends? We were bothughing when we heard a knock on the door. It''s already 10:00 pm, who would knock at that hour? I was about to go and open the door when Gabriel grabbed my hand and he took the lead inside. We heard another knock before Gabriel opened it and I frowned when I saw Greg outside Gabriel''s room. "Greg," he called him. "Oh, I''m sorry to bother you," he said looking at our intertwined hands and then he looked at me smiling. "Madi, is this yours?" He showed us a white handkerchief. And my eyes widened as I looked at him. That was my handkerchief embroidered with my childhood nickname, ''Maiden''.. where I got the name of my restaurants. I took it straight away and smiled. "Thanks, Greg." "Tss!" I Gabriel huffed. "So, is that just your reason why you knocked on our door at this of ate hour?" "Gab?" I squeezed his hand. "Yes," Greg replied shortly. "You can give it to her by tomorrow, so why do you---" "Because I also want to say goodnight to her." then he smiled at me. "Goodnight, Madi." "Goodnight, Greg." I returned his smile. "Goodnight, cousin." he patted Gabriel on the shoulder before he disappeared from our sight. I felt Gabriel''s grip tightened and I slightly winced. "Gab!" "Oh, I''m sorry, love." he sighed and checked my hand after closing the door. I was about to turn around when he pulled my hand again, so I looked at him confused. "Love..." "Hmm?" "Can we be friends?" And my lips curled into a wide smile with his question. I took a step forward and stared at him. I can''t believe he''s really asking me. "Of course, why not? Friends?" I said taking my hand and offering it for a handshake. "Friends," he said epting it with the same smile as mine. But when he pulled me into a hug, I don''t have a choice but to hug him again. "Tsk.Tsk. You know what, my friends'' list was consists of nice and kind people. Now, I really don''t know If I can still call it ''nice list''." "And why?" he looked at me furrowing his eyebrow with his hands still on my waist. "Because you added to that list. You''re totally the opposite of them. They know how to smile andugh often, but you''re not. They were nice to others but you''re difficult to approach. You''re cold, distant ...." he started to open his mouth, nodding "... rude, a big jerk and---" "And what else, heartless? Bastard? Arrogant?" He interrupted me, holding back his smile. "Exactly! Those were the words I was about to say." I saidughing at him. But he justughed, shaking his head. "Love, I promise to lessen your bad impressions towards me." "Owws?" I don''t believe him. "Yes. I told you, you can p me." "Alright." I shrugged, smiling widely. "Okay, let''s go to bed, it''s gettingte." "Yeah, I''m going to bed. But you... you''re going to sleep on the couch." I said smiling as I pointed to the couch. His jaws dropped. "Love, we both fell asleep in bedst night." "Yeah, we both fell asleep in the bed st night''." I emphasized the word st night''. "But that wasst night and tonight is another night, so you''re now going to sleep on the couch." I patted him on the cheek before jumping on the bed with my back first. "Ohh... it''s really nice to sleep in the soft... and ...fy bed... hmm..." I said rolling my body left and right. And when I looked back on him, I chuckled as I found him still in his post, frowning. "Hey, love? Are you just going to stand there? Aren''t you going to sleep?" I bit my bottom lip to suppress myugh. "Love, that''s a king-size bed." "And so?" "And so? That''s enough for the two of us. We can sleep on both sides of the bed and it''s still---" "Uhmm... is that so?" I asked him getting up. "If you want, you can sleep here and I''ll go to sleep on the couch." "Huh?" He frowned. "But tomorrow I''ll tell your Mom that you let me sleep on the couch, while you sleepfortably in your bed. Hmm... how''s that?" I pretended like I was going to take the spare pillow, but then I heard him speak. "Oh, God, woman! Fine! I''m going to sleep now--- ''on the couch''!" he emphasized thest three words and I chuckled. He took some extra pillows and nket from the cab andid down on the L-shaped couch while I settled myself, staring at the ceiling. But then I was back to thinking again. We can''t stay that way forever, no matter how I wish... I know we can''t. "I love you, Madi." My head snapped in his direction. "Should I answer you back, I mean, do I need to say I love you, too?" I asked him feeling the heaviness of what we were doing. "Of course, you need to." he checked on me, raising his head from the pillow. "Hmm... alright, I love you too." I sighed, looking back at the ceiling. I turned my head in his direction and all I can see is just his head. He rolled over and I sighed. How can I go to sleep when I know he''s notfortable?" "Gab..." "Hmm? Yes, love?" N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "Are you still awake?" I heard him chuckled. And I realized my question. He''s obviously still awake. How silly of me? How would he respond when he''s already asleep? "Yes, love." he raised his head. "Why, are you still cold? Do you want some cuddle buddy?" And it''s my turn tough at him. "No thanks. I was about to ask you to sleep here in bed, but I changed my mind. I think you''re already comfortable on that couch, so goodnight." "Ohh...e on, you''re kidding." he got up immediately and ran to the bed. "What are you doing here?" I asked him when I felt the other side of the bed dipped in his weight. "Thanks, love," he said grinning widely. "Fine." I put two pillows between us and smiled at him. "What''s that?" he asked frowning. "Barriers. Sleeping barriers, my love." "Oh, sleeping barriers, huh? I thought you wanted some cuddle buddy?" "Hah.. no thanks, just cuddle yourself if you want." I rolled my eyes but he justughed at me. "Okay, just feel free to hug me when you change your mind." He winked. "Hahaha... do you know how to spell the word ''wish''?" He raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, wish, it''s W-I-S-H, wish." "Wrong!" "What? But that''s the spelling of that word." "Nope, they''ve already changed it and this is the new spelling of the word ''wish''... Y - O - U !" His frown got deeper. "That''s you! You just ''wish'' until the morninges that I will hug you!" and with that, I turned to my side of the bed as he continued tough. "Okay, love. Goodnight." "Goodnight," I replied smiling. "I love you." It was then that my smile faded. "I love you too." I sighed. -''Goodnight, love.''- I muttered silently before closing my eyes. Chapter 43: Sunday breakfast Chapter 43: Sunday breakfast Madi''s POV: "Greg, can you give me the chocte syrup, please?" "Sure." he gave me the syrup from the counter as I continue to arrange the pancakes from therge te. "Thanks." I smiled at him. "You''re always wee." and he winked at me. I just shook my head and smiled at him. I woke up early this morning, even though I hate mornings and wake up early. But this is ourst day in Belleville and I want to make breakfast for all of us. When I opened our bedroom door, I found Greg stretching and doing push-ups in the hallway. He asked me why I get up early and I told him that I was thinking of making breakfast, so we both ended up cooking in the kitchen. He''s making a cheesy and bacon omelette while I''m preparing my chocte pancakes and chocte muffins. "I missed this kind of moment, Madi," he said as he flipped the omelette. I looked at him immediately and made a face, motioning him to shut his mouth because someone might hear us. "Ohh... I''m sorry," he said smiling shyly. I sighed and yfully red at him but he just gave me a throatyughed as a return. "Gregyyy..." I said teasing him with his most hatest nickname. I remember once Noelle called him that and he gave her a sharp look. "Oh, Madielyn, stop it!" heined scratching the back of his neck. "Why?" I asked him grinning. "Nancy calls you that too." "And you know I hate it. It''s just for a kid!" Iughed when he threw his hand in the air just to show me how he hates to call him by that nickname. "I just have no choice when they call me that." "But it''s cute, you know." "Yeah, for you Madielyn Davis, but for me, it''s not. You''re like my Mom, she loves to tease me by shouting that name in front of my friends. And sometimes inside the groceries store---" "Greggyy!" we both turned to the squealing Nancy when she suddenly came out of nowhere. I can''t help but burst outughing when his jaws dropped in mid-air. "Good morning, gregy." And Iughed even more that I need to clutched my stomach as I covered my mouth. "Morning," he said not even bothered to mention the word ''good''. "What are you cooking, Gregy?" Nancy asked looking at the pan. "Your favorite cheese omelet," he answered coldly. "Oh, okay. What about you, Sissy--- wait! Why are youughing?" She frowned when she turned to me. "Huh?" I noticed Greg behind her, ring at me. "Because he hates it when someone calls him that name," I said whileughing. "Ohh... I''m sorry Gregy! I didn''t know you hate it when someone calls you Gregy. Don''t worry, I''ll try not to call you Gregy again. But for now, since you''re my favorite cousin and you''re cooking my favorite breakfast, I''ll think about it, Gregy." she said andughed with me too. I lost count on how many times she mentioned the word ''Gregy''. "Argh! Madielyn Davis!" he said and yfully narrowed his eyes on me. He also started walking in my direction. "Huh? Why me? I only mentioned it once!" I askedughing as I started to step back. "Because you still mentioned it to this stubborndy!" he said referring to Nancy. "Excuse me! I''m not stubborn!" Nancy defended herself as sheughed at his cousin. "Yeah, but it''s not my fault when she mentioned it six times." I continue to step back. "Forget it, but when I catch you-----" "And when you catch her, what?" I gasped when someone pulled me by the waist and my back mmed into a hard chest. I looked up to see the serious face of Gabriel. "Love---" I tried to talk to him but he cut me off. "What are you doing?" he asked in an irritated tone. And I raised an eyebrow. "We''re preparing breakfast," I said seriously as I looked him directly in the eye. I don''t get it, he seemed mad at me and Greg. "Cooking breakfast--- but he''s chasing you?" I was slightly shocked by the tone he used with me. "Come on, Gabriel, we''re just making breakfast and throwing some jokes here," Greg said and now back in front of the stove. "Yeah, Gregy is right, Gab," Nancy added and I bit my lip, trying not tough when Greg suddenly turned to her. "Yeah, is this the new form of joke, right now? Chasing my fianc¨¦e around the table? And if I don''t show up here, you''re going to chase her and then what--- hug her after that?" My eyes widened at his question, but Greg justughed at him, while Nancy was having the same reaction as mine. "Gabriel, what are you talking about?" I couldn''t help but ask. What is happening to him? And he turned to me, ring. "Why? Am I not allowed to ask my ''cousin'' and ''my fianc¨¦e'' what''s going on here in the kitchen?" he emphasized the word cousin and fianc¨¦e. "Gabriel, what are you thinking about?" I asked him, not even sure if he''s just acting, pretending or what because it''s not included in what we have been talking about. "What''s going on here, kids?" Mr Wilsons came to our view. "Oh, it''s nothing Dad, it''s just that... Gabriel is kinda jealous of Gregy here." Nancy said flipping her hair. I saw how Mr Wilsons'' face changed from frowning to being amused. "I''m not jealous! I''m just asking!" Gabriel pulled me to his side. Nancy and I shared a look and I couldn''t help but smile at the idea that he''s jealous. "Oh, really? But that wasn''t the tone of a person who''s just asking, Gabriel." Nancy raised her eyebrow at him. "Stop it now, kids." Mr Wilsons stood between his two children. "Gabriel, you don''t have to feel jealous with Gregy boy." I looked away when I saw Greg''s sour face while Nancy bit her lip to control herugh. "Dad, I told you I''m not jealous!" "Okay, if you''re not jealous then fine! But if you are---" "Dad!" "Fine! Fix your issues before your Mom came----whoa! Who made this?" he didn''t finish what he was saying when he noticed the chocte pancakes on the dining table. "It''s Madi, Uncle Jonas," Greg answered proudly. "Wow! You know what, Gabriel? If I were you, instead of sulking and being jealous, I would give my fianc¨¦e a sweet, passionate morning kiss." Mr Wilsons said and he winked at me. My eyes widened when Gabriel turned to me, grinning. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "Thank you Dad for giving me such a wonderful idea," he said as he tightened his grip on my waist. "Gabri----" he immediately cupped my face and gave me what his father had said. A sweet, passionate and long morning kiss. "Thank you, love. That''s awesome," he said wiping my lips with his thumb. I red at him and pulled his cor. "You promised mest night!" I whispered through gritted teeth. "I''m sorry love, but it was Dad who requested it. I''m just giving Dad his request," he said grinning and kissed me on the cheek. I just blinked repeatedly. He''s really bipr, not just sometimes but all the times. Earlier, he''s like a jealous boyfriend ring at me and Greg, but now, I feel like I''d like to p the grin on his face. "Hmm... I can smell something sweet and delicious." We all turned to Mrs Wilsons and the other two women behind her, including Sav and Chris. "Good morning, Ma." Nancy kissed her mother''s cheek. "Good morning." Mrs Wilsons hugged her back and then turned to me. "Good morning my beautiful future daughter-inw." I smiled awkwardly and greeted her back. "Good morning, Ma. Good morning Aunties." I also smiled with the two women. "Wow, I like what my eyes seeing today." Uncle Jhon came from the door with Uncle James and the two boys, Phillip and Justine. "Madi and Gregy, they made all of these." Nancy proudly announced. "Really?" Mrs Wilsons asked looking at me and Greg. "Thank you, Madi and Greg for this." "You''re wee, Auntie." Greg smiled at her. "Madi, since you''re good at cooking, why don''t you start your own business? How about opening your own restaurant?" I gulped when Aunt Cindy asked me. "Yeah, I agree with that." I secretly nced at Greg who''s biting his lips to suppress hisughter. "Uhm... I-I am busy being my boss''s assistant." I replied, emphasizing the word boss. Gabrielughed next to me. "Love, if you want to put your own business, I will support you. If you want, I can help you enrol in a cooking school so, you can have formal training-----" he didn''t finish his sentence when Greg started laughing, well, not exactly at him but the idea that I will enroll in a cooking school again. "What''s funny?" Gabriel asked him with a raised eyebrow. "Oh, nothing. It''s not you, cousin. I just received some funny text messages from a friend of in college." Greg said, showing his cellphone. And I secretly red at him when he emphasized hisst word. "Okay, Okay. Let''s eat, for now, so we can start getting ready for the Sunday mass." Mrs Wilsons said and gestured all of us to sit down. Gabriel kissed me on my forehead before sitting down next to me. He just smiled at me when I nced at him. Chapter 44: THERE IS NOTHING AN US Chapter 44: THERE IS NOTHING AN US Gabriel''s POV: I was just staring at her as she sat down next to me. We''re currently inside the church, but I can''t focus on what''s the priest was saying in front of the altar. I can freely stare at her face because all her attention was on the priest. She has long, thick and curledshes, a small but pointed nose, a cute dimple on her left cheek which I just recently noticed. She also has two attractive eyes which also smile every time she smiles. And her lips... I gulped remembering how soft her lips were every time I kissed her. She has her own character and strong personality. When I proposed to her, I know half of them were lies, but I was sincere when I thanked her. I admit, having her next to me was a big help for me to somehow forget the pain inside. She can make me smile every time she opens her clever mouth. I was still confused as to how she agreed to help me with this deal, but I''m grateful as she didn''t comin even though there were some questions that she wanted to know the answer to, that even I couldn''t exin to myself. I feelfortable with her around me and I''m getting used to calling her love, that sometimes I forget I shouldn''t call her that when it''s just the two of us. But despite all this, it will remain an act. The problem is that... I don''t know why I couldn''t stop myself from kissing her. I couldn''t control myself every time I looked at her soft, pinkish and tempting lips. It''s like a drug to me, that with every sip and every taste, it makes me high and addicted. My eyes darted to Greg who was sitting between Sav and Chris. He''s been texting the whole time. Yeah, he''s my best friend, but when ites to Madi, I couldn''t help but feel annoyed and irritated with him. I''m not jealous.. should I? It''s just that I couldn''t ept the fact that he likes her among all the girls around him. He knows she''s with me. It''s strange to think that when this deal ends, he can be with her, he can touch her hands and do all those things which I feel I should be the only one doing with her. I lost focus when I felt Nancy''s elbow on my side and I turned to her. "What?" I asked her slightly annoyed. "What--your--face! Stop staring at your girlfriend''s face and focus on the front. Listen to what the priest was saying!" she whispered to my ear. I just ignored her and looked at Madi again, but was slightly surprised when I found that she''s no longer looking at the priest but at me. She''s eyeing me suspiciously. She straightened her seat and drew her face closer to my ear. Her sweet vani and honey scent hit my nostrils that if we''re not just inside the church, I would surely kiss her again. "Is there something wrong with my face?" she asked me and I shook my head. "How about my makeup?" she whispered again. I frowned at her questions but shook my head again. "Is there dirt on my face?" "No, love. Why are you asking?" I can''t help but ask after her third question. "If there''s nothing wrong with my face, then why are you staring at me?" -''She knows?''- "I-I wasn''t staring." I denied it and looked away from her. -''shit!''- "Okay." she just shrugged and focus on listening to the preach. I sighed and red at Nancy who''s giggling next to me. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Madi''s POV: The car stopped in front of my apartment. We''re now back in Chicago where we will face reality and this deal between us again. I looked at him but he''s still on the phone. "Gab, I have to go," I said calling his attention. "Oh, we''re here?" he looked out the window and turned to me. "You can take a day off tomorrow." "You don''t need to do that, I''m okay---" "I insist. You will take a day off tomorrow." "And I insist too. I going to work tomorrow because I need to see Sandy." I said with my chin up. He didn''t speak for a while but then he nodded and gave me a tired smile. "Goodnight, Gab." I took my bag and didn''t wait for him to respond. I can sense that he''s been a little distracted since we got off the ne. Jhon has already carried my suitcase to the front door and I thanked him before closing the car door. I was just on the third step when I heard Gabriel call my name. He''s now out of the car and walking his way towards me. "I just want to say goodnight and thank you," he said seriously and kissed my cheek. "Okay, goodnight again, Mr Wilsons. See you tomorrow." His mouth slightly opened but he didn''t say anything. "Keep the ring. I mean, please don''t take it off." I know he''s referring to the engagement ring he gave me. "Huh? W-What about in the office? "Then just say you''re engaged." "But---" "Just for a month or two, Madi." "What do you mean by a month or two?" I asked as I felt a sudden disappointment. "One to two months until I finish my ns. And next week, we have to go to the Civil registry to register our marriage." "What? T-That''s so fast?" my eyes widened and I clutched the strap of my handbag. "I know, but I talked to my private detective. Stacey and Ray were in a rough rtionship right now." "And what''s the connection of your marriage to their rough rtionship? I can''t get the point, Gabriel!" "Because this is one of my ns to destroy them. To show her how much she wasted all that we had before and for her topare what she has right now and what she lost by choosing him over me!" Even though his voice sounded mad, there''s still a hint of sadness in his eyes. "This will be myst favor Madi, please?" Next week? This is getting more awkward and ridiculous and it really makes my feelings ramble inside. "But Gab, this is too big of a favor, I - I don''t know if I can still------" "Madi, listen. Just listen to me first." he held both my shoulders. "It''s just for papers like what we both agreed with the deal. Nothing''s changed, Madi, and I promise, even if we''re just married in papers, cheating would not be the reason to break us, to break our friendship." I chuckled at hisst sentence. "Are you sure that cheating wouldn''t be the reason, Gab? How can you say that when you know, you''re going to take her back from Ray? You''re going to go out with her again while we''re married! Isn''t that a form of cheating too?" "I know, but I will just destroy them without emotions involve." Without emotions involve. "Tell me the truth, Gabriel. Do you still love her?" I know I would look like the dumbest and stupid person by asking him the question with an obvious answer, then so be it. Take it or forget it. But like what I expected, he didn''t give me the answer. "I can''t answer that question right now, Madi." N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. I gulped the sudden pain that surged inside me. "Okay." I shrugged like it was nothing to me and I wasn''t affected. "But Madi, I''m serious. Even if we''re only married by arrangement, I won''t intentionally cheat on you. Stacey is another thing." "Can you please stop mentioning the word cheat? Because you know it''s not true. Whether it''s another woman or Stacey, that''s just the same! Being married to me while dating another woman or getting your Stacey back, is still cheating Gabriel!" "You don''t understand, Madi----" "What is it that I don''t understand? Exin it to me! Because if you''re saying you won''t cheat on me intentionally, then stop chasing your ex!" I noticed his sharp intake of breath. "I can''t, Madi! You know I can''t! But as I promised, even if I am with Stacey, I won''t break us!" I chuckled again. "You won''t break us? But you said it''s just for papers, this is just an act and this is just for your deal! So, what are you talking about ''us''? There''s nothing an ''us'' Gabriel." I said blinking away the tears that had formed at the corner of my eyes. I started to take a step back but tried to smile at him. "Madi..." he called me but didn''t try to follow me. "Don''t worry, I''ll marry you. Goodnight Gabriel." and I turned my way to the front door, thinking about what the consequences would be after at the end of this agreement. But as they say, ''Stay strong now because things will get better. It might be stormy today, but it can''t rain forever.'' Chapter 45: Her stupidity Chapter 45: Her stupidity Madi''s POV: "You epted his marriage proposal?" Sandy asked me when she noticed the ring on my finger. I nodded. "Why?" "What do you mean, why? It''s part of the deal." I avoided her gaze. We''re 15 minutes early as usual before our official time and she''s now in my office. "Yeah, part of the deal, but your heart and your feelings shouldn''t be involved in that game. Madi, you know the truth behind his story and you know he''s still can''t get over his past!" I sighed and leaned back in my seat. "Tell me, do you have feelings for your ''fake boyfriend? Are you already in love with him, Madi?" I didn''t say anything, I just put my face on my both hands as I rested my elbows on the table and sighed heavily. "So, it''s true? You''re in love with him and that was why you epted the deal in the first ce." "No! I mean, yes at first I agreed with his proposal but I don''t feel anything for him by that time. I-I just don''t know when it''s started. And I''m confused Sandy because sometimes I can feel that he cares. In his kiss, I can feel something with it, and every time he''s calling me love. I-I don''t know, Sandy. I hate this! I hate this feeling!" "Fuck! Madielyn Davis!" N?velDrama.Org (C) content. I looked up as I felt the heaviness in my heart. "And we''re getting married next week." "What?" she mmed both her hands on the table. "Are you insane? I only pushed you to agree with his game before because I didn''t expect you to fall in love with him! And marriage, Madi? Are you sure of that?" "It''s just for papers and only for two months." "Shit! Madielyn! Don''t tell me, you also agreed with that?" Her eyes went wide. "Fine, you realized you''re in love with him by the time you''re already helping him, but to marry him now that you developed your feelings with him and he''s still chasing his ex-girlfriend, that''s a huge of stupidity, Madielyn!" "Sandy, you''re not helping me!" "I''m helping you, actually! I''m helping you to wake up before your good sleep turns into a nightmare! Back out Madi, now that you still have time." I looked at her and shook my head. "I-I can''t. I can''t, Sandy." "So you''ve made up your mind. Well, it''s yours, Madi. You''re no longer a child. You already know what the difference between good and bad for yourself." "Why is it easy for you to give me such advice? You too are in love, like me and we have almost the same situation." "Nah-ah!" she said shaking her head. "We''re different Madi. Yes, we''re both in love, but we have a completely different situation. I admit I''m in love with someone who''s also in love with someone else and that someone else is you. But we don''t have an agreement, we don''t have a contract and I will not push myself to him. Unlike you, you know you''re in pain but you choose to stay!" "Sandy..." "What? Does it hurt to hear the truth? If he''s in love with you he will drop his n against her and focus all his time with you, but he''s not doing any of it, right? So, what are you--- a stupid or idiot?" "Huh! That''s harsh, Sandy!" I gasped with her blunt words. "Because that''s what you need to hear to wake up! Madi, you can''tpete when you don''tpare!" I just gulped and avoided her eyes. It''s the first time, I''ve seen her bitchy side and heard her sarcastic comments. When I looked up at her, I smiled and shrugged my shoulders. Well, I''ve already figured it out. Stupid, foolish and idiotic. **** Saturday morning. Out wedding day. I didn''t listen to Sandy''s advice. I continued to be stupid and signed my name at the Civil Registry office as Mrs Madielyn Davis-Wilsons, wife of Mr Gabriel Wilsons. After signing the contract, we headed straight to hiswyer''s office for a little ceremony and Jhon, his driver and Vincent, one of his bodyguard were our witnesses. We exchanged the ring, a simple vow and kiss that sealed my life to a new chapter of challenges. After that simple ceremony, we ate at a restaurant and went straight to my apartment to pack my things. John and Vincent helped me pack some stuff that I will use over the next few months. When I was about to exit my room, Sandy came and hugged the life out of me. She was still sulking when I waved my goodbye until I lost sight of her. We stopped in front of a huge house with four security guards standing inside the ck gate. Although, I am used to such things, but my eyes couldn''t believe how many luxury cars he owns. Jhon opened the side of my door and pulled my threerge bags. At the entrance, we were greeted by his four maids who helped me carry my things. "Madi, I''ll show you your room," he said cing his hand on my lower back. "Thanks," I said and smiled at him. My room is just in front of his room. It''s a bit spacious and doubles the room size in my apartment, but it''s actually the size of my room at home... in Florida. It''s also painted in white, beige and brown and has aplete set of furniture inside. "Are you okay with this or do you want something bigger---" "No, it''s fine. I''m fine with this." I said and walked further into the room. As I opened the door of the walk-in closet, a frown painted on my forehead when I found a lot of dresses and shoes inside. "That''s all yours." I heard him said behind me. "But I have my clothes." I turned around and only to be surprised because our face was within inches of each other. "Sorry," I muttered casually and walked past him to look in the other drawer. "You don''t have to apologize, you know." "And you don''t have to follow me, Gab." He was about to speak when we heard his cellphone ring. I looked around and decided to walk out of the closet. I left him talking to someone, and I don''t want to know who''s that someone in the other line. "It''s Stacey. She wants us to meet today." I turned around and looked at him as if it was just a simple thing I heard. "Good." I shrugged and started to unpack my things, so I missed the kind of look he gave me. "I mean, it''s good that she''s the one pulling herself into your trap." I noticed him walking in front of me, but I continued unloading my clothes from the suitcase "We''re fine, aren''t we?" he asked lifting my chin. I chuckled when I looked up. "Of course." "We''re friends?" "We''re friends." I smiled, but it hurt me inside. Friends... that''s all he can give me, just a friend. "Okay, I have to go." I nodded. "Bye." "Uhm... Madi, don''t wait for me tonight. You can ask the maid whatever you want, they will help you." he said when he''s already at the door. "Okay, don''t worry about me. I can manage." I smiled and waved my hand. Then he walked out the door. I sighed and fell back into the bed. I reached for my phone and searched for the number of a person I want to talk to right at that moment. "Hi, Mom." "Ohh, my baby. I thought you already forgot your old mother." I chuckled as I rolled over. "Mom, you know that''s not true. I missed you." "Hmph! I missed you too, my baby. How are you? How''s your business?" "I''m fine, Mom, and my business... well, it''s doing great." "Hmm... so when are you going to visit your old mother?" "Mom, stop saying your old!" I eximed and I heard herugh on the other line. "But it''s true, I''m now old, my baby, and I wish you could find your prince charming who would wait for you in the altar." I bit my lip as I brushed my face with my palm. "I actually found someone, Mom." "Really? That''s good! When are you going to bring him here and introduce him to me?" "Uhm... I''ll try to ask him, he''s just kinda busy. He''s a businessman." I told her some details about me and Gabriel, except about the deal, the arrangement, the proposal and our marriage. I''ll just make a story about our rtionship, but I won''t mention my situation. After thirty minutes of talking to my mother, we said our goodbyes and I continued to unpack my things. I need to do some things to avoid thinking about what he and his ex doing at the moment. Chapter 46: Lunch break Chapter 46: Lunch break "So, where is your ''dear husband'', Mrs Wilsons?" Sandy asked me sarcastically when we get back to work the following day after my two days off at home. It''s already 10:00 o''clock but Gabriel hasn''t arrived yet and I have already cancelled his first and second appointment pf the day. "Stop calling me that, someone might hear you!" I red at her. "Okay... then answer me, where is our boss?" "Why are you asking me, I am not his mother!" "Excuse me? But you are his wife, you should know where he is!" "Sandy, we''re just married on a piece of paper and you know that and to answer your first question, honestly... I don''t know. Ourst meeting was on Saturday afternoon and he said he''s going to meet Stacey." I almost whispered thest word. "Ohh... so he''s with his ex on your first wedding night... nice!" "Stop it, Sandy!" I said getting annoyed with her teasing. "Oh, but why? I''m not doing anything here, I''m just repeating your words, ''duh!" I remained quiet and focused on theputer screen. "Have you tried calling him?" she asked, taking her seat in front of my desk. "I''ve been trying to call him sincest night, but it always goes to his voicemail and even this morning until this time, I''m still trying but he''s not answering." "What about his meeting today and some of his appointments?" "I have already cancelled his two-morning meetings. I need to talk to him, he must inform me if he''s still going to work today, so I can also call thepanies that had already set an appointment today and to avoid anyints from the investors." "So, he didn''te home evenst night?" "No." "Hmm... what do you think he''s doing right now? Or evenst night and the night of your wedding? Especially when he''s with his ex?" "I don''t know! And whether he''s fucking his ex every day and every hour, I don''t care! I just need him to show up now, because I''m going insane thinking what kind of reasons I''m going to say to cancel his business appointments!" "Uhuh... yeah, you don''t care, but your heart does. Tsk. tsk. You''re under the spell of what they called, madly in love---- oh no, Madielyn in love!" and sheughed like a viin in some drama movie. "Can you just...argh! Sandy please, just get back to your work. I need to send some emails and finish some reports!" "All right." she shrugged. "Just inform me as soon as he arrives. Bye, Mrs Wilsons." I just bit my lips and red at her. *** It''s exactly 11:45 on my wristwatch when my phone vibrates at the top of the folders on my left side. My heart started to pound inside, hoping it''s the person I am expecting to call at that moment. But to my disappointment, it''s not him but his cousin, Greg. "Hi, Greg." I tried to sound jolly. "Hello, ever beautiful Madi... how are you?" at least he makes me smile. "I''m fine, Gregy. How about you?" I asked as I leaned into my seat. "At this moment, hungry." and I chuckled with his answer. "Can I invite you for lunch today, Madi? There''s just someone here who''s eager to see you." "Ohh... Can I know who that someone is?" "Secret. So, are you in? Don''t worry, it''s on me." "Really, Gregy? Are you sure of that?" I smiled widely, shaking my head. "Of course! Do you know one of this famous restaurant here in Chicago--- the ''Maiden Restaurant''?" I bit my lip to control myughter after hearing the name of my restaurant. "I remember, there''s someone who told me I can go and eat there whenever I want. And what''s the name of the manager there, ahh... Noelle! Yeah, it''s Noelle. So, are you going to go and eat with us? It''s on me, I promise!" "I hate you, Greg!" I said as I tried not tough out loud. "Why? It''s true, I know the owner of that restaurant. She''s a friend of mine, she''ll certainly serve us all the food we want." "Of course, she will give you whatever you want, ''for free!" "Yes! See? I told you, she''s the most beautiful and kind woman for the needy." "You''re rich like Bill Gates! What are you saying you''re needy? I hate you!" I heard himugh on the other line. I checked my watch and it''s only 5 minutes before 12 noon. "So, what''s up?" I heard him asked after a while. "Okay, I''m in. Where are you, by the way?" "We''re at the lobby. Are we going to pick you up there or---" "No. I''ll just fix my things and I''ll go down there." "Okay." I sighed as we both ended the call. I pressed the inte and also invite Sandy to go with us, and as I expected, she agreed excitedly. *** "Sissy!" "Nancy?" She lunged at me as soon as Sandy and I stepped out of the elevator. "Ohh, Sissy. I missed you!" she said as she hugged me tightly. "Did you miss her that much? You''ve only seen each other almostst week?" Greg asked her, chuckling. "What is it with you Gregy, if I missed her?" she turned to him and hisughter died. "What are you doing here?" I asked her when she turned to me. "Well, I have some projects here. Some criminal syndicates involved in human trafficking." My eyes widened slightly. "Oh, that''s a huge case, Nancy." "I know, but it''s my job." she shrugged. "By the way, this is Sandy---" "I know her. Sandy Agur, Gab''s secretary. Hi, Sandy." she smiled and hugged her. "Hi, Ms Wilsons," Sandy said shyly. "Oh, cut the formalities and just call me Nancy." When we''re all settled with our greetings, we all agreed to use Greg''s car to go to my restaurant. I don''t know if Nancy has a clue about it, but I trust Greg on that. As soon as we entered the restaurant, I froze when Nancy squealed in front of me. "Wow, Sissy! You have a huge and beautiful restaurant!" we all turned to her and I nced at Greg with wide wide eyes but he shook his head. Then Nancy smiled and grabbed my hand. "I know everything, Sissy." My breath suddenly stuck in my throat as I looked at her smiling face. She knew. "E-Everything... y-you mean everything?" I asked stuttering as I can''t believe what she just said. Greg and Sandy were just watching our conversation. "Yes, everything." she nodded. I gulped as I asked her how. "Didn''t my brother tell you that I work in a detective agency? I am the head director Madi and anytime, I can ask someone to prove whether my brother is lying or not." "N-Nancy..." Then I remembered Gabriel told me about it, but he assured me it wouldn''t be a problem. "Let''s not talk about that for now. I''m so hungry, you know? And Greg told me, he''s kinda close with the owner of this restaurant, so we can eat for free." I chuckled as she winked at me. We were greeted by almost every employee serving their customers at that time. We chose to sit in one of the farthest corners so we can''t disturb some customers with Nancy and Sandy''s mouth who instantly bing clicks and friends with each other. As I finished my food, I received a text message from an unknown number, but when I opened it, I instantly knew it was from Nancy. She''s asking me if we can talk privately and I replied with a yes. I excused myself to use the bathroom and after a few minutes, Nancy came and I lead her to our private office. We found Noelle on her desk, checking some delivery receipts and since I''ve already introduced them to each other earlier, I don''t have to introduce them again at that moment. I know that Noelle got the message as soon as we entered the office and she immediately excused herself by doing some rounds in the kitchen. When we were alone inside, I let Nancy sit on the couch as I too sit next to her. "So, how are you Madi," she asked looking at my wedding ring. I gulped as I looked at her and give her a half-smile. "Here, officially married." I bit my lip, showing her the two rings on my finger. "I know, and honestly, I was so shocked after hearing the news. Well, Mom and Dad too." "They already know about the wedding?" I asked her with wide eyes. "Yes, Gabriel called them before you registered your marriage, but what they didn''t know is about your agreement. Why did you agree, Madi?" I sighed and looked down at my ring. How would I tell her the truth? How would I exin to her? "I won''t judge you if that''s what you''re thinking." she took both my hands. "Although I already have a clue, I wanted to ask you this, personally. Madi, are you in love my brother?" I slowly moved my eyes to her and nodded. "I knew it!" she eximed. "Nancy..." "When Gab told us that he''s going to propose to you, since I already have a clue, I can''t help but wonder why you agreed to marry him, but now, I think I don''t need to be confused." I didn''t say anything. Well, the truth is... I don''t know what to say. "Do you remember the time when I asked you if you really loved my brother? I knew it by then Madi. And when he knelt in front of you, I saw your tears... tears of sadness instead of happiness. And I remembered this saying about tears.. ''when a person cries and the first dropes from the right eye, it''s happiness. But when the first roll is from the left, it''s pain." "Believe me, Nancy, I didn''t mean to feel that way. If I could teach my heart not to fall in love with your brother, I will, but I can''t." "I know." "This is not me, Nancy. If you ever know the real Madielyn Davis, you will find out what kind of person she is. How bubbly her personality is, how strong and confident she is. But now all her strengths seemed to be her weaknesses." "Madi, I know how stupid my brother is for dragging you into this mess and how selfish of me to ask you this but, can you wait for him?" I looked at her face but found the seriousness of it. "Why do you want me to wait for him?" "Because I can see how you changed him, Madi. I''m not sure of what he really feels for Stacey at this moment, but I''m sure of what he feels for you when you''re around him and when you''re next to him." I can''t help tough at her. "Don''t give me false hope, Nancy." "I''m not giving you false hope, Madi. I''m just telling you my observations. I''ve seen the way he stares at you when you''re not looking at him. How you make him smile andugh, Madi. He even kissed you in front of us." "Because we''re just pretending at that moment." "No, Madi. He never kissed Stacey like that ever in front of everyone. And I witnessed how he got jealous of Greg, the time he saw him chasing you in the kitchen." she chuckled at the memory. "He became possessive over you." I just looked down and closed my eyes, then I felt her arms around me. "I like you, Madi. The first time I saw you with him, I want you to be my real sister-inw. And I promise I will help you to make Gabriel realize how stupid he is by dragging you with his stupid deal and for dumping you like this. I''m on your side, Madi." I smiled as I wiped the tears that stupidly ran down my cheeks. "Just promise me you''ll wait for him?" "I''ll try, Nancy. As long as my heart can take the pain, I''ll try." "Ohh... Sissy." and she hugged me again. After our private talk inside the restaurants'' office, we decided to go back to our table and to the two who are now frowning waiting for us. "I thought you two were swallowed up in the toilet! You took so long----ouch!" I punched Greg''s arm as we chuckled at his toilet line. N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "There''s a lot of customers in the bathroom, duh!" Nancy rolled her eyes at him. "And we have to fall in line," I added, smiling. "Fine!" the three of usughed at him. When we''re done eating and talking, Greg sends us back to the office. Nancy told me she will stay at Gabriel''s house, which means she will stay with us for the whole month. *** "Where have you been?" I was shocked when I found Gabriel with a stern look, sitting in my office chair when Sandy and I get back from our lunch. "I - I ... came from lunch break." "With whom?" My eyes widened with his kind of question. -''With whom? What is this, an interrogation?''- Chapter 47: The jerk Gabriel vs. the furious Greg Chapter 47: The jerk Gabriel vs. the furious Greg "With whom?" My eyes widened with his kind of question. -''With whom? What is this, an interrogation?''- "With Sandy." "And?" I looked at him as my eyebrows knitted. "With Nancy." "And there''s another one!" Why do I feel like he''s questioning me who I had eaten lunch with? "So, you already know there''s another one?" I don''t need to ask where he got the information because I don''t see anything wrong with it. "Yes! Why don''t you tell me who''s the other one?" he asked me in a loud voice. "If you already knew there''s another one with us, then why do you keep asking?" I ignored him and put my bag on top of my desk. I can feel my temper rising from his questions and the tone that he used. "Madi, I was just asking if who''s with you! I''ve been calling you for almost an hour since I got back and you''re not answering!" My head immediately snapped at him and I chuckled sarcastically. "Oh, so you''re calling me for almost one hour? Wow, congrattions, that means you haven''t forgotten my number! Well, FYI... I''ve also been calling you for almost two days. I''ve been trying to reach you and have sent you so many messages this morning, but where were you? Have you answered any of my calls? Did you respond to any of my messages?" "Madi, you know where I am!" "Oh, I''m sorry Mr Wilsons, but as an employee and your personal assistant, I don''t know your whereabouts! I''m not concerned about your personal business and I''ve already cancelled two of your meetings this morning!" I answered wearing my professional look. "I don''t care whether you cancelled all my appointments today! I am not asking you as your boss, I am asking you as your husband!" "Oh, so you''re asking me now as my husband? Well, Mister fake husband, as your fake wife, is it still important for you to know who I had lunch with? Because as far as I remember, I didn''t ask what you did and who have you been with these past two days." "We''re getting out of the topic, Madi! Who''s with you besides Ms Agur and Nancy?" -''Wow! getting out of topic or you''re just avoiding the real topic?''- "I''m with Greg, Mr Wilsons! Your cousin and your best friend!" I answered proudly. - ''patience..patience..''- I whispered silently. "Why were you with him?" he asked me through gritted teeth and clenched jaws. "What is it with you, if I''m with him? He''s my friend----" "I don''t want you to talk to him! Stay away from him, Madi!" If he happened to be a dragon, I''m sure, I''m already toasted in where I stood. I remember Nancy''s words, he''s jealous of Greg. I don''t think so maybe just his ego. "Wow! Mr Wilsons, you''re now entering my personal life!" --''you''ve already entered? my heart''-- ... "What if I ask you to stay away from Stacey, will you do it?" "Madi, it''s a different thing, and you know I can''t!" "Then I can''t either! Greg is my friend-----" "A friend? You don''t know him, Madi!" "And you don''t know me neither!" I red at him as he clenched his jaws and exhaled loudly. "Madi------" we heard a knock on the door and we both turned to see Sandy. "Excuse me Sir, but Mr Greg Anderson is in your office, he said he wants to talk to you," Sandy said as her eyes moving from me to Gabriel. What is Greg doing here? And inside his office? "What is he doing in my office? Why did you let him in?" he snapped at her and she almost jumped in shock. "I''m sorry Sir, but he didn''t listen to me when I said you weren''t there. He just let himself in." I yfully eyed Sandy. He let himself in... well, she''s right. Greg is also as stubborn as his cousin. The only difference is that he has a jolly personality and easy to get along with, unlike Gabriel. "We''re going to talk about this ''at home'', Madi," he said emphasizing the words at home. Yeah, I forgot we''re now living under one roof. "Alright." I shrugged. But I have ns for tonight. I don''t want to see him around the house as much as possible, so I can avoid getting hurt every time I remember what he''s been doing thesest couple of days.. with her. When he''s already gone, Sandy immediately ran to me. "He''s jealous of Mr Anderson." "I don''t know." I shrugged. I don''t want to think about it that way. My heart is already in a mess, I don''t want to go home with my mother without my sanity." "Hmm... I like the way you answered." she has an evil smile on her face. "Tsk.Tsk. This is going to be ''more'' ridiculous day by day, but nice and exciting at the same time." she winked at me as sheughed at herself. "If I were you, I would always go out with Mr Anderson." N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. I furrowed my eyebrows. "And why?" "To make him more ''jealous''." "Tss! Go back to your work, if you don''t want to get fired and lose your precious job." "Ohh, I doubt that!" she proudly patted her shoulder. "I know you''re not going to abandon me and will take me if he decided to end my career in WEC!" "Huh! You''re crazy!" "That I am, Mrs Wilsons!" and she quickly ran to the door. *** Gabriel''s POV: "What are you doing here?" I asked my cousin as soon as I walked into my office. He''s sitting comfortably in the chair in front of my table. "You sounded mad, brother I''m here to see you, of course," he said smiling. He hasn''t even moved a bit from his seat. "To see me or to see Madi?" "Ohh... both." His smile widened. " I wanted to see my beautiful Madi and I also want to talk to you" "Don''t call her yours! She''s not yours! And we''re married!" I mmed both my hands on the desk. But he justughed at me and shook his head. "I know, I''ve seen her wedding ring earlier. But as far as I remember, that was just an act, that was just an agreement!" he''s now starting to get serious. "It''s none of your business, Greg," I said as I avoided his gaze. "As long as this agreement remains an agreement, this is also my business, Gabriel! We''re best friends, you''ve shared everything with me, but why do I feel, when ites to Madi, you''re shutting me out of your life?" "I''m not shutting you out, I just don''t want to see you with her." Heughed sarcastically as he brought his arms over his chest. "Tell me, Gabriel, why you don''t want me to get close to her? Are you jealous or are you threatened?" "And why should I be threatened?" "I don''t know, you tell me." he shrugged and sneered. "Okay, let me answer that for you, my dear cousin. Hmm.. maybe because you''re afraid that Madi will fall in love with me---" "That''s not gonna happen!" I red at him. "Ohh... are you sure? Because if you''re going to look further into it, I''m not the bad guy here, but you. You''ve dragged an innocent soul into your selfish ns. And don''t act as if you''re jealous, because you have no rights!" He stood up and looked at me as if I were a piece of meat to him. "Yes you married her, but let me remind you of your own word! Your marriage may be real, but there''s nothing between you and her! Or else you changed your ns.. and changed your heart too." I looked at him not sure of what he was trying to say. "Are you falling in love with her, Gabriel?" he asked me through gritted teeth and banged his fists on the table. But I didn''t give him the answer he wanted to hear. "Fuck you! Your sailing two rivers, Gabriel! Why don''t you stop your stupid n with your ex and move on? If you care about Madi, stop being selfish and drop all your baggage from your past!" "I can''t Greg! You know I can''t! I''ve waited for this for so long and I can''t just stop right now!" "Bullshit, Gabriel!" And in an instant, he got in front of me and grabbed me by the cor as he pinned me to the nearest wall behind me. I didn''t try to fight, I just let him do it. "I swear to God Gabriel, if I''ve seen Madi get hurt with your damn n, I''ll forget everything that we''ve had! I''ll forget you were my best friend and my cousin! So, you better pray because if I can catch a glimpse even a small sign of opportunity, I''ll take her away from a selfish like you!" He dropped his grip on my cor and without looking back, he exited my office. I let out a sigh and fixed my shirt. I formed my fist and banged it on the table. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Madi''s POV: I saw Greg, exited from Gabriel''s office when I walked out of Sandy''s room. And I frowned when I saw the scowl on his face. "Greg!" I called his attention and he immediately smiled when he recognized me. "Madi." "What happened to you? Why do you have a crunched face when you left Gabriel''s office? What happened inside?" "Oh, it''s nothing. Don''t worry about it." "Greg?" I raised an eyebrow as I looked at him suspiciously. "Okay, fine. Your boss was an asshole and we just had a little argument, but it''s nothing." "Hmm... so he''s an asshole," I repeated, nodding. "Yeah, but anyway, I have to go Madi. Nancy''s waiting for me in the parking lot." "Oh, okay, no problem." I smiled at him and he kissed me on the cheek. "Thank you for the lunch, Madi." and he winked at me. "Yeah, you''re wee. But I hope the table is yours next time." "Oh, sure. How about tonight? I know a good ce here to get rid of all the stress in you. You can also invite Sandy." "Wow, really? Okay, I''m in, but can I also invite Noelle?" "Huh?" I chuckled at his reaction. "Just kidding. Bye Greg. Just text me the address." "Sure. Bye, Madi." When I saw him entered the elevator, I turned my heel into Gabriel''s office. I remember his promise when he turned into a jerk again. -''Be ready my dear husband!''- I didn''t bother knocking on his door. What for? I won''t stay long. I saw him frowning and looking nkly at the folders in front of him. But when he saw meing, he straightened his seat and smiled at me. "Madi--- (p) He looked at me puzzled as he brought his hand to his left cheek. "W-What''s that for?" "Huh!" I sneered. " For being a jerk, my love! Remember? I''m just taking your promise!" I smiled sweetly before turning my heels towards the door. I left him shocked and dumbfounded. And I sighed when I''m already outside. Chapter 48: The brave Madi Chapter 48: The brave Madi It''s four in the afternoon and it''s time for my boss -sh- husband, the third coffee of the day. But before I make him coffee, I need his signature first on some important documents which I also need to pass to Sandy for dismissal to its designated department. I carried the documents and was about to knock on his office door when it instantly opened before my face and Gabriel''s hasty gaze looked at me. "Oops! I''m sorry, are you in a hurry, Sir?" Do I really need to ask that--- when I already know the answer? "Yes, someone called me---" "Stacey called you, right, Sir?" "Madi---" "Oh, it''s okay Sir. I just need your signatures for some documents here, can I?" I smiled like it wasn''t a big deal to me and that I wasn''t affected. "Yeah, in my office." he opened the door and walked in again. He didn''t bother to take a seat. He just took the files and signed each one of them. "Are you not going to read the contents?" -''Do you really can''t wait to see and fuck your ex again? No... your girlfriend again?''- I asked him just in my mind. But he just smiled and handed me all the papers. "I don''t need to. I know I can trust you, Madi." I raised an eyebrow and tried to make a joke. "Really, what if it''s a part of my way of earning a few million from your ount?" But instead of being rmed... "It''s okay. You can have as much as you want and don''t worry, I can give you anything you want, Madi." Iughed inside... -''Yeah, you can give me everything I want, except your heart.''- And much to my surprise, he kissed me quickly on the lips. "What the---" I uttered, but he''s already exited the door. I gulped andughed bitterly as I touched my lips. We''ve been married for two weeks, but we barely see each other at his house. You can only count on your fingers the nights he sleeps in that huge but empty house. We''re just seeing each other in the office, but after that, we can have our own precious time at night. And with that, I''m really starting to think if he still needs me in his n, because it''s been two weeks that he hasn''t mentioned it. And because it''s once in a blue moon when he shows up at his house at night, he didn''t notice the time I got home every night. There''s one time, I didn''te home and slept in my old apartment, but he didn''t notice it. He continued his n of chasing her and I continued to be invisible in his eyes. Every day, I need to smile and show him I''m fine and everything around me was just fine. But every day, smiling feels like wearing a mask, a lonely mask that keeps my real feelings inside. But do I have a choice? I chose this, right? So feel free to endure the pain of my stupidity. ***** "Madi, are you ready?" "Yeah, I''m just going to change my clothes at Gabriel''s house." It''s Friday night and we''ll be celebrating tonight in a night bar, along with her, Nancy, Greg and two of Greg''s friend. And since Gabriel took an early out this afternoon, for sure he''s enjoying the night between Stacey''s legs too. "Why do you keep calling it ''Gabriel''s house''? Why don''t you just call it ''our house?" "Because it''s not my house!" "But you''re married, that means it''s marital property." "Sandy, I don''t have an interest with all the things and properties he has----'''' "Yeah, because your only interest is to win his heart." I didn''t say anything, because it''s true. And it just hurts me more to think that my love for him grows every day, but I can''t do anything about it. "You don''t have to go home, Madi." I looked at her and she smiled. "I have a lot of dress, you know. You can borrow any of it." "It''s okay, you don''t need to do that." "But what if you find your husband at home?" "And so?" "What if he stopped you from going out tonight?" "Oh, he can''t do that! I didn''t ask his whereabouts, so he has no right to question me!" "Huh! Oh my, the brave Madi version 2.0." I chuckled at her idea... ''brave Madi version 2.0'' I like it. ***** I actually listened to Sandy''s suggestion. I wasted no time going home to change my clothes. I just borrowed one of her killing dress. "God! I missed this!" I said turning in front of the mirror. I''m wearing a tight red and fitted dress which ended on my mid- thigh. And take note, it''s in a strapless style and fits all my curves perfectly. "Oh my God, Madi! You''re so fucking hot and sexy!" "Oh, I already know that, but thanks anyway." Sheughed at the way I answered back. "I wish your husband could see you in that killing outfit tonight, I''m sure he will immediately drop his revenge n on his ex and will start chasing you around!" And that''s my turn tough. "That''s not gonna happen, Sandy," I said popping my lips after applying my favorite shade of red lipstick. "Well, who would know? But anyway Madi, you really look confident and beautiful tonight." I just smiled at her. They are actually my tags to myself. The ever beautiful, confident and strong Madi. "Let''s go." I took my bag and checked myself again in the mirror. I sighed and smiled at my reflection. I don''t remember when was thest time I wore that smile and confidence in myself. But I promise I''ll be myself again tonight. The real me, the beautiful, confident and strong me. Greg was waiting in the living room when I decided toe out. He stood up immediately and smiled at me. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "Wow! I haven''t seen you in that kind of dress for a long time. Do I have to say wee back or congrattions on your return?" he asked kissing my cheek. "Come on, Greg. I''m still here. Nothing''s change!" ... -''except my heart''- "Okay, let''s go?" he took my hand and put it on his arm as we headed for his ck Maserati. "Where''s Nancy?" I asked when he opened the passenger, not before he opened the door for Sandy in the back seat. "She''s already at the bar. You know, flirting with Lawrence." I just shook my head and smiled. Nancy''s original n was to stay with us at Gabriel''s house, but when she met Lawrence, one of Greg''s friend, she decided to stay in Greg''s apartment. We arrived at the night bar at exactly seven in the evening. Sandy and I didn''t wait for Greg to open our car door. Once we parked at the parking lot, we immediately jumped out of the car. "Why didn''t you wait for me?" Greg asked me frowning when he''s already in front of us. But we just laughed at him and started walking towards the entrance. "It''s okay, you know we can it ourselves," I said cing my hand on his right arm. "But there''s one thing we can''t do tonight." He looked down at me. "And that is?" "And that is to pay our bills tonight." I shrugged and winked at him. Heughed and scratched the back of his head. "Tsk.Tsk. Fine!" And my smile widened. "Thank you, Gregy. You''re so cute." I pinched his right cheek. "Tss! You don''t know--- it''s innate." he proudly stated. "You''re leaning from the expert, huh!" I said chuckling. "Of course! You''re my best teacher." and he also winked at me. I just smiled and rolled my eyes. The loud music was starting to rock the nightclub when we entered the entrance. Greg took us to the VVIP section and that''s where I found another Greg''s friend, Luis. "Where are Nancy and Lawrence?" I can''t help but ask when I noticed the two were missing. And he pointed them through his mouth. We followed his gesture and found the two on the dance floor. "Wow! She''s now rocking the night!" I said shaking my head. "Yeah. Tsk.Tsk." Greg said and sat down next to me. "What would you like to drink?" I smiled at his question. "You don''t need to ask, anything is fine with me." "Alright." he shrugged and stood up to get our drinks. Greg knows me well. He knows how much my tolerance is when ites to alcohol. I can drink the whole bucket of beers without being drunk. We took the same course in college and we were both used to this kind of drink. After dancing wildly and rocking herself on the dancefloor, Nancy finally decided to sit down. "Hi, Sissy." she hugged me and kissed my cheek. I can smell the alcohol on her breath. "Don''t get too drunk, Nancy," I said patting her arm. "Of course, Sissy." she smiled at me. "How are you and my jerk of a brother?" "Still the same," I replied, avoiding her gaze. "Tsk.tsk.tsk. Don''t worry, the wheels know how to roll themselves." And that''s when Greg came back with two sses of devil spring vodka in his hands. My smile widened as he handed me the other ss. "What''s that?" Nancy asked curiously asked. "Devil spring vodka." I smiled as I proudly answered. "Is that strong?" "Hmm... 80% of alcohol." "Huh! Can you drink that, Sissy?" her eyes turned wide but Greg just chuckled at her reaction. "Yeah, I can even drink the whole bucket of beer without being drunk." "Oh my! But how can you do that?" "Five years of dealing with and drinking almost all types of alcoholic beverages can make you immune, Nancy. And Madi has a strong tolerance when ites to that." Greg answered next to me. Actually, I''m sitting between them. "Wow, can I see how you drink the whole bucket, Sissy?" she squealed beside me, but Greg red at her. "Nancy!" But she just ignored him. "I have an idea!" And the next thing she did really surprised us all. She ran towards the stage and spoke through the microphone. "Good eveningdies and gentlemen! I have a friend over there. She''s actually my sister-inw." She pointed to where we were sitting. "She has a high tolerance to alcohol. Now, is there any of you who can fight her in a bottoms-uppetition?" she screamed loudly and the crowd begin to make their choice. "I''m willing to give ten thousand dors to anyone who can defeat my sister-inw! Only five bottles! Who wants to join?" Greg gritted his teeth as he watched his cousin gathering some boys from the crowd. "It''s okay, Greg. I''m used to this." I said patting his arm. "But Madi---" "It''s fine. In fact, I missed this." I stood up and winked at him. The crowd gave us some space and ced the buckets of beer in the middle. And then the battle began. I''m really enjoying it. Nancy, Sandy and Greg''s two friends were cheering for me. But my killjoy friend by the name of ---Greg---, was just standing next to me and checking me out from time to time. I wanted tough at his face but I need to finish my battle. And After ten minutes... bottoms up! I won! "Yes!" Sandy and Nancy squealed in unison as they hugged me and kissed me on both cheeks. But their faces were far from Greg''s face after that. His frown got deeper. "Are you okay?" he asked, holding me by the elbow. "Of course.l, it''s just alcohol, duh!" I answeredughing. We headed back to our seats and continued our drinking sessions. Weughed, we danced and we rocked the whole club upside down. I felt so free as if I really belonged to that world. I let out all my stress that night, as I know that tomorrow, I will have to face my battle again. The real one. It''s already one o''clock when we have noticed the time and we all decided to cut the party and went home. Greg drove me home and opened the car door for me. He even helped me get out of his car as if I were going to trip at any moment. "Thank you, Greg. I enjoyed this night so much." "You''re wee, Madi. You know I''ll do everything for you, right?" he said seriously. "Greg..." "I know, " he sighed. "But nothing''s changed, Madi. I''m still the Anderson boy you know eight years ago." I smiled and hugged him. "Thank you, Greg." When I pulled back, I looked at him. "But you know, we all know everything has changed." "I know but not me. And you don''t have to tell me the things that have changed about you." "What do you mean?" "You love him." I gulped and straightened my body. "I see it through your smile, how your eyes shine every time you hear his name. But like what I said before, I''ll be waiting for you Madi." "Greg----" he put his forefinger on top of my lips. "I waited for you for eight years and I''m willing to wait another eight years again or more if you want." I took his hand. "Greg..." I don''t know how to exin my feelings to him. "Madi, just let me do this, please? This is all I can do for you. To be on your side whenever you need me. At least I can be the friend you need. I''m still here, Madi." And because I can''t form any words, I just hugged him again. "Don''t be pressure with this, huh? I''m not telling you this to pressure you and to avoid me. I just want you to know you can have me as your friend or... something else, you know." he shrugged and I punched him in the shoulder. "Thanks again, Greg. You don''t know how lucky I am to have you as my friend since the beginning." "Ouch! I''m just your friend." he faked his hurt expression. "Greg!" "I''m just kidding. So, I''m going ahead?" "Yeah, take care and thanks for the drinks." I winked at him. He chuckled. "No problem. Goodnight, Madi." he kissed my forehead. "Goodnight, Greg. Take care!" I waited for him to get into his car and drive away until he''s already out of my sight. Then I headed towards the wooden door. All the lights were already off but I have my own key in case the door was also locked. I was humming my country song when I walked in. I put the key back in my bag and left the phone in my hand. I was about to take my first step when I heard the booming voice from the living room and the lights went on. Then I saw the angry face of my ''husband''. "Where have you been?" I gasped as I put my hand on my chest. I almost drop the phone because of so much shock. -''For goodness sake! Why is he still awake at this hour?''- I asked myself looking directly at him. "I just went out with my friends," I answered casually afterposing myself. "Went out with your friends, Madi? At thiste hour?" he yelled at me. I can''t believe it, he really yelled at me! "Hey wait, Mr husband! Why are you mad?" I asked him,ughing sarcastically. "Why am I mad? Are you seriously asking me that question, Madielyn?" my eyes widened with that. "Wow! So, I am Madielyn to you now, dear husband?" "Are you drunk?" Am I drunk? No! A little tipsy maybe... but drunk? Nah! "I''m not drunk! And excuse me, I just want to take a rest." I brushed past him but he grabbed my hand. "Where have you been, Madi? You didn''t answer my question seriously!" -''You didn''t answer my question seriously.''- I mimicked his words in my head beforeughing in his face. Chapter 49: Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! Chapter 49: Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! -''You didn''t answer my question seriously.''- I mimicked his words in my head before Iughed at his face. "I already answered your question! I went out with my friends and your sister!" I tried to pull my hand but he didn''t let me. "You went out with them? And you just got home at thiste of an hour?" "And so? I told you I was with Nancy! And Greg was with us too, he actually drove me here!" He clenched his jaws as he narrowed his eyes on me. "Greg has been with you all this time? You were with him? Why didn''t you tell me you''re going out tonight and that you were with him?" ''-Fucking shit!''- I blinked rapidly as I felt my temper rising to my head. "Excuse me, what did you say? I didn''t tell you that I was going out tonight? Gabriel Wilsons, since when do I have to tell you my whereabouts?" "Since you''re married to me, Madielyn Wilsons!" "Wow!" Iughed sarcastically, shaking my head. "Since I married you, why? Did I ask your whereabouts since you''re married to me too? Did I ask you to report on me where you went, every time you don''t sleep in your fucking room? Did I?" I''m not drunk actually, but thanks to the presence of alcohol, I can also scream at his handsome face. "Madi, that''s a different thing and you know that the first time you epted this agreement that I will go with her and chase her!" "Oh, yeah! I epted this fucking agreement of yours, but I didn''t agree to tell you all the things in my life! And I didn''t agree that you''ll be the one to choose the people that I should go with!" "It''s because you''re married to me----" "And you''re married to me too so, what''s the difference with that? Go fuck your ex and I don''t care! And I''ll go fuck my own business!" I yelled at him with all the veins that showed on my neck. I know we can disturb the now sleeping maids, but I can''t help but defend myself with how he wants to control all things. I turned my way towards the wide staircase. "Madi, can we please talk civilly?" N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. He asked in a low voice as he followed behind me. I turned to him and sighed as I tried also to level my voice into his tone. "Gabriel, let me remind you, yes, we''re married, but being married to each other doesn''t mean, I need to ask for your permission every time there''s something I wanted to do in my life because I don''t ask yours. I haven''t questioned you every time you got somewherr or who''s with you at that moment. Please let me do the things I wanted to do because I forgot about being myself when I said yes to you." "Madi, I''m just worried. I was worried sick when I didn''t find you at home earlier. I''ve been calling you, but you haven''t answered my calls." "Hmm... Let''s just say, I like to give the gift of my absence to those who do not appreciate my presence." I smiled and patted his cheek and headed for the stairs. I saw how his jaws dropped with myst statement. And thanks again to those bucket of beers, at least they allowed me borrow some strength and courage for tonight. If only I had known this thing a long time ago, I would certainly drink alcohol like water every day. "Madi." I heard his voice again when I was about to open the door to my room. " Let''s talk about this tomorrow when you''re sober." "I''m not drunk, Gabriel, but if you want some ''talk'' tomorrow, then that''s fine. Goodnight, Gab." I walked over to him and kissed him goodnight on the cheek. I sighed and leaned back against the door. I closed my eyes and remember the happenings of this night. Sandy was wrong when she said he would appreciate my outfit. I smiled bitterly and kicked my shoes on the floor and my bag on the couch. He didn''t even notice my dress. Huh! I jumped on top of the bed first with my stomach and not after a minute, I received a text message. "Oh my God!" Iined as I got up to get the phone from my bag. It''s a message from Greg. **I''m home. Goodnight, Madi.** I smiled and typed my reply. **Goodnight, Greg.** And then I three myself back on the bed. ***** I was still in my slumbend when the shitty sounds of my rm clock woke me up. It''s Saturday morning and the noisy rectangr thing on top of the bedside table reminds me of what happenedst night and that I''m still wearing Sandy''s red dress. "Argh! Can you wake me up after four hours? Gosh! Why did I forget to adjust youst night?" I said tapping the dismiss button and tried to go back to sleep. It''s 8:30 am when I heard the constant knocking and calling of my name from the other side of the door. "Oh, God! Can''t I get some more sleep?" "Ma''am Madi? Ma''am Madi." It''s Elsa''s voice. And because that girl was so persistent in waking me up, I have no choice but to get up and opened the door. "Hi." I greeted her with a half-smile and half-closed eyes, nut she gasped when she saw me. "Huh! What happened to you, Ma''am Madi?" she asked me with wide eyes. I know what she refers to, my makeup... especially my mascara that smudged on my both eyes. "That''s make up, silly." I chuckled and opened the door widely. "Ohh..." she said nodding. "Ahm... Ma''am Madi, Sir Gabriel wants to inform you that he''s waiting for you in the kitchen." I crunched my eyebrows as I walked back and sat on the edge of the bed. "But why?" "For breakfast. He made breakfast for the two of you," she said smiling. "He cooked?" I asked in disbelief and instantly my sleepiness swiped away in my system. "Yes Ma''am." her voice was obviouslyced with tease and her smile almost reached her both ears. "Okay. Just tell him to wait for me forever." "Ma''am?" "Just kidding." I smiled and stood up. "I''ll be there in a minute. Thank you, Elsa." "You''re wee, Ma''am Madi," she said and walked out of the door. A smile crept onto my lips. "Come on, Madi! He just cooked for breakfast, what''s so special about that? And what''s that smile of yours?" I asked myself in front of the mirror, but my stupid heart can''t control herself not to feel the over excitement. I just washed my face and brushed my teeth, because taking a bath isn''t my habit early morning especially when I''m just at home. I went down the stairs and headed directly into the kitchen, where I found him typing something on his laptop with his phone by his side. When he noticed me, he immediately got up. "Good morning, how are you?" he asked smiling and kissed me on the forehead? I controlled myself not to raise an eyebrow with his gesture. Just like that? As if nothing happenedst night? "Good morning." I smiled even my mind doesn''t want to. Since I''ve realized that I love him, my heart and mind were always fighting who among them should I listen to. But I''ve noticedtely, my stupid heart always wins. "I cooked some breakfast, scrambled eggs, bacon, pancakes. I also made orange juice for you, so what do you want?" He pulled a chair for me and I can''t help but smile. It''s the first time we''re having breakfast together. "You cooked all of these?" "Yeah, but I asked Lea''s help." he smiled shyly while scratching the back of his neck. He also sat next to me. "Hmm..." I said nodding and was about to get some pancakes when he stopped me. "Let me do it." he took the fork from my hand and ced three pancakes on my te. I just smiled and didn''t say anything. -''Seize the moment.''- "Madi..." he called my name after a while. "Hmm?" I looked at him after putting the fourth bite of my pancake. "I''m sorry for what happenedst night. I was just worried about you. I thought something bad had happened to you. I called everyone who seemed close to you... Sandy and Nancy but they also haven''t answered my calls. Then I disturbed my private investigator to trace you and that''s when you came. So, I let him take his rest again." My mouth hung open at what he said. He did all that for me? Because he''s worried? I don''t really know how much of a worry I''ve caused him. I gulped the orange juice in front of me before looking at him. "I''m sorry, I didn''t know you were that worried." He smiled and took my hand. "It''s okay. I''m also sorry for yelling at youst night. And yeah, I''ve realized you''re right. I forced you into this mess so, I have no right to question you." "Gab, that''s not what I meant." "No, Madi. I understand. We''re just married because of my agreement and we''re not a real husband and wife, a real couple. And I haven''t asked for your permission with my whereabouts these past few days and nights. But Madi, I want you to understand me....." -''Whoah! Here''s the big word, ''understand''.''- "... not because I''m your boss or I''m your husband, but because I''m your friend. I''m worried about you, Madi. I''m a man and I can protect myself, but you''re different, you''re a woman-----" "So you mean to say I''m weak?" "No! That''s not what I mean. Madi, I care about you. I know you can''t see it, but I do because you''re my friend." -''Ohh! Ouch! friend! Another big word, I''m just a friend!''- "But Greg was with me, he can protect me. He''s also my friend... like you." "Tss! Madi, he can''t protect you 24/7! He''s not a superhero---" "So... are you? Can you protect me 24/7, Gabriel?" "Madi, please, let''s not argue with this. If you want, from now on I''ll tell you all my ns and whereabouts. Just promise me, you''ll also tell me about yours." "For what? I''m not asking you to do it." "I know. So at least I can pick you up when you''re no longer able to drive. I can also join you every time you goi out." I chuckled and took my hand out of his hold. "Are you sure? How much is your alcohol tolerance, Gab?" I asked as I got up and drink my juice. "I don''t know, but I think I can survive on the whole bottle of whiskey. Why are you asking?" he asked, frowning. "Hmm... okay, let see. But make sure I''m not the one who will drive you home afterwards, instead of you driving me." I chuckled as I collected my used tes. "Sure." He said but I turned my back on him. I put my tes and utensils on the kitchen sink. But after a moment, his next words stopped me from what I was doing. "We''re going out tonight. I mean, can youe with me to a party tonight?" I turned around and looked at him. "Are you asking me toe with you to a party tonight?" I asked as I pointed myself. "Yeah. It''s a party of one of my colleagues from college, celebrating his sixth wedding anniversary with his wife." -''You''re going out on a date!''- my heart screamed inside. "Ahh..." A smile crept onto my lips as I nodded. "Stacey is also going to attend, so we have to show ourselves as a couple." And in an instant, my smile died as my jaws dropped to the floor. A pained and sarcastic smile reced my lips. "So you''re just inviting me because Stacey is also going to the party?" I asked him, gulping the sudden pain. "Yes. It''s a part of our deal, right?" -''Ohh..''- my heart shrink in the sea of pain. "Yeah! It''s a part of the deal. Tsk.Tsk. How did I forget that?" I was shaking my head when I turned around to face the sink. -''Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! Of course, it''s a part of the deal! What do you expect? To ask you on a real date, a romantic date? He can''t even see you more than a friend! Wake up, Madi!''- "Madi, if it''s not okay with you, it''s fine. I can---" "No!" I immediately turned around. "Who said it''s not okay with me? I''m going with you." "Are you sure?" "Yeah! More than one hundred percent sure! It''s a part of what we talked about, right? So, I''m in!" I said acting confidently. "Thank you, Madi." he smiled at me and I returned him with another smile. Yes, another... meaning, not the same as his. It''s full of disappointment and pain. "No, problem. Just inform me when are we going to go, so I can make myself beautiful." He chuckled. "Trust me, you don''t need to. You''re beautiful in who you are, Madi. That''s enough." I just smiled at him. -''Yeah, I know I''m beautiful, but it''s not enough for you to see me and to love me the way I wanted you to love me.''- Chapter 50: His sluty Ex-girlfriend Chapter 50: His sluty Ex-girlfriend Madi''s POV: "Wow!" I smiled at Gabriel''s reaction when I opened the door to my room. I can''t describe the emotions in his eyes the way he looked at me from head to toe. I''m wearing a mermaid cut off-shoulder emerald long gown with a sweetheart neckline and a sexy high-slit on the right thigh. "So, what do you think?" I asked him, smiling, but his eyes were still travelling from my cleavage. And I saw him gulped when it landed on my slit. "Ahem! Ahm, excuse me, my eyes are here." I raised an eyebrow as I snapped my fingers to get his attention and back to my face. "Oh! I''m sorry. What did you say?" "Tsk. tsk. Am I that sexy and beautiful for you that you didn''t hear my question? I was asking you if what do you think of my outfit?" He smiled and shook his head. "Perfect. You look gorgeous tonight, Madi," he said looking into my eyes and my breath instantly locked inside my throat. "Only tonight?" "No, every day. You looked beautiful every day," he said seriously. -''Then why can''t you notice me?''- "Wow! I''m ttered, Mr husband. Don''t worry, you''re also looking good tonight. It''s just that I don''t know the other night, ''cause you''re not staying here." I shrugged. And before he could open his mouth... "Shall we?" He just smiled and took my hand as we started heading downstairs. A gray Bugatti Chiron awaits us in the garage. "Nice car." "Thanks. It''s also for a nice woman." and he winked at me that caused my stupid heart to pound faster inside my chest. It took thirty minutes to get to the party venue and it seemed that all the guests could have their say in life, business and politics based on their conversations. All the girls wore their most expensive gowns, while all the boys were dashing in their suits and tuxedos. There were also a lot of paparazzi outside the venue, but since we were surrounded by guards and his personal escorts, we entered the venue without interruption. "Look who''s here! The famous Gabriel Wilsons!" a man in his fifties made his way towards us and hugged Gabriel in a brotherly hug. "Mr Singson, how are you," Gabriel asked him. "Always looking good, of course! And what about you? How''s business?" "Well, my business is still the same, but if you''re going to ask how am I personally, I can say that I''m inspired and luckily in love." "I''m proud of you for that. No wonder they called you ''the beast'' in the business world. But wait! Who is this beautifuldy with you tonight, Gabriel?" the man turned to me and I smiled my most practiced smile. "Well, this is Mrs Madielyn Wilsons, my beautiful wife," Gabriel said proudly and put his hand on my lower back. "Wife? You''re married?" shock was written all over the man''s face. "Yes, because I''m telling you, Mr Singson, having such a beautiful woman like her in my life, I really couldn''t sleep at night without her bearing myst name." "Oh, yeah. I believe in you." the man chuckled and took my hand and brought it to his lips. "It''s nice to meet you, the gorgeous Mrs Wilsons." "Thank you, Sir." "I hope your patience canst longer with this stubborn man next to you." I chuckled and he winked at me. "Mr Singson, stop flirting with my wife." he yfully grabbed my hand from the man''s grip and pulled me to his side. "Have you seen that---such a beast, right?" he ignored Gabriel and kissed me on the cheek. "Oh, God!" Gabriel grumbled and wiped my cheek with his knuckles, which caused me and Mr Singson tough at him. After some greetings and h..h..h... from Gabriel''s friends and business colleagues, we finally found the celebrants. They were both from the same university and the same courses. He introduced me as his wife and the same with Mr Singson''s reaction, they too were surprised by the news. The wife seemed kind and approachable. We talked for a while about their college days and how they fell in love with each other. But if you think, all the guests were kind and will smile at you nicely, well that''s big bullshit of a lie! This is why I don''t go to parties like this, even at my mom''s charity or whatever you may call it party in Florida, I always refused to go with her. There were so many faces smiling at you, but when you turned around, they would talk shit and spit behind you. Some of them raised their eyebrows at me when they heard that I am the wife of this famous Gabriel Wilsons. Well, since I don''t know any of them, they can mind their own business as I''m going to face mine. Ten minutes after the introduction and a lot of h..h..h... the skinny woman in a fiery red dress walked into the venue. Almost all eyes turned to her when she entered. But a sudden familiar pain stabbed me when I saw how Gabriel looked at her. I can''t read any emotion in his eyes, because he''s best at masking it and recing it with his cold and serious demeanour. She''s walking alone and greeted by a few guests who certainly came from the same school as Gabriel. When she noticed him, she smiled sweetly at him that even ants could taste it. "Hi, Gabby. How are you?" she asked him in her most flirtatious smile and kissed him on the cheek. She even batted her false eyshes. "I''m good, Stacey. How are you? Why were you alone?" I sighed inwardly when Gabriel smiled at her too. And I think I''m not in the right ce to put myself between them. "Well, yeah, you know I told you, Ray has been a jackasstely. And I''m so sad that I came here alone." I almost rolled my eyes when she wiped her fake tear. "Ohh... let him be----" But Gabriel didn''t finish his words when she cut him off and took his hands. "But anyway, since you''re here, I will not be alone. You''re going to be my date tonight, right? You''re here for me, I know that." she said with her all-out -- thirty-two pieces teeth-- smile. But I didn''t react or say anything. I just remained quiet. I waited for Gabriel to introduce me and it caused this ''slim-leech'' woman in front of us to dropped her jaws. "Oh, I''m sorry but I can''t be your date tonight. I''m with my wife. Remember, Madi?" She looked at me---no, she eyed me from head to toe and then smirked. "You''re kidding, Gabi. You seriously married her?" she asked him full of disgust as if she were referring to me as some kind of dirt. "Yes, I married her and she''s now my wife," Gabriel said proudly and a triumphant smile curled up against his lips after seeing his ex''s reaction. But I remained quiet again. Why? Because that was all his n--- to make her jealous. And based on her reaction, I know she''s hurt and although she knew how to mask her real emotions, her eyes couldn''t lie. -''Tss! The bitch!-'' "But why? Why did you marry her?" she whispered-yelled, stomping her foot. "What do you mean, why? Because I love her!" -''What a nice scene! Come on, show each other how bitter you both are!''- "You don''t love her, Gabi! Because I know you still love me!" And this time, I snorted silently, rolling my eyes. "Excuse me, Stacey, but I think I need to talk to ''my wife''," he emphasized the word wife and then he turned to me. "Love, I''m sorry about this." he faked his apology, but I can hint the slight irritation from his voice. "Oh, are you done with your heartfelt conversation? Tsk.Tsk. It''s okay love, you know I am an open- minded person." I shrugged. He didn''t say anything, but he grabbed me by the elbow and pulled me into a dark hallway, but still enough to see what kind of look he''s giving me at the moment. He''s ring at me. "What are you doing, Madi?" he asked me in a whispered-yell way. "Nothing," I replied casually. N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "Exactly! Why aren''t you doing anything? Stacey''s in front of us, but you remained quiet and rxed?" "And what do you want me to do?" "Act as my wife in front of everyone, especially in front of her!" "But I am, Gabriel! What do you think I am doing here if I wasn''t ying as your wife?" "Madi, that''s not what I mean by an act!" "Then tell me! Exin to me! You want me to kiss you and hug you every time she''s near you?" "Oh God!" hebed his hair in a frustrated manner. "Act as my wife! Be jealous in front of her! Show her that I am yours now and that she''s just in the past!" -''Are you really mine, Gabriel?''- "Ohh... so that''s what you want! You want me to be your possessive wife in front of everyone." I sneered. "Hmm... are you sure? Because I''m telling you, Gabriel, I don''t know if I''ll be able to stop myself when I started that role!" "Then go on! Be my wife! Get jealous and possessive over me! You can even kiss me and hug me if that''s what makes our act real!" "What if I tell you, that if I get annoyed with her fishy mouth, I can p her with my heels?" He chuckled before answering. "Then I won''t stop you." "I''m serious, Gabriel. You don''t know what I can do to your t-chested ex!" but he just chuckled again. "I will be very proud of you love, no matter what." "Are you---" but I didn''t finish my question when he cupped both of my cheeks and kissed me on the lips. -''That''s it!''- I muttered to myself before pushing him and taking him back to the venue. -''Be ready, sluty bitch! Madi is here! What''s for Madi, is only for Madi!''- Chapter 51: Hes now mine! Chapter 51: He''s now mine! By the moment we got back to the venue, I started getting alert and keeping a winning smile on my lips. Because to hell or whatever, Gabriel is mine all night. I put my hand on his arm as we walked back to our seats. I spotted Stacey talking to the celebrants, but her eyes were moving around. -''Hmm... looking for a husband, huh?''- "Love, I''ll just talk to Mr Singson regarding ourtest project," Gabriel said after pulling out my chair and once I was seated. "Okay, love." I said and smirked when he turned around. I know what''s in his mind. I also know why suddenly he wanted to talk to Mr Singson. Stacey was just a few meters away from us, and by unting himself in the middle, she will surely find him easily and talk to him. And from that, I know he''s thinking that I will prove my position as his wife. Tsk.Tsk. Wise move Gabriel. But even so, I keep an eye on my husband, but when I got a message from Greg, I lost him. **Hi, beautiful Madi. How are you and what are you doing?** I smiled and shook my head. Sometimes he really knows how to tter me. **Hello, Gregy boy. I''m fine and I''m currently at the party.** I replied. But he''s a faster texter. **Party? Who having a party?** **Gabriel''s friends in college, 6th wedding anniversary** **Where?** I frowned at hisst question, but I still sent him where the party is. And after that, I didn''t get any response from him. I just sighed and put my phone back in my clutch. But the moment my eyes were back to where my husband is, the scene in the middle is something I couldn''t ept. Stacey is now sucking my husband''s neck. -''Huh! This sluty-bitch! I was just being distracted for a moment, and here you are hooking up my husband?''- I muttered to myself as I walked slowly and gracefully towards them. I gave my most bitchy smile before I pulling Gabriel''s hand. "Aherm! Love, is there anything I can help you with?" I also raised an eyebrow. "Oh no..." the bitch chuckled sarcastically. ".. you can''t help him, because---" "Excuse me? Am I talking to you, Miss?" I saw her gasped and I continued. "Are you my husband, the one I called ''love''? Because as far as I remember I was referring to ''my husband!" I emphasized thest two words to let her know that he was already taken... that I''ve already taken him. "Really? But Gabi didn''t tell me he got married!" She said raising her eyebrow and standing proudly in front of me. Yeah, she''s a little taller than me, but I''m more beautiful than her.. huh! Just look at her boobs... pads and foam. -''Ahh.. you want a battle of beauty, huh?''- "Wow! I wasn''t informed that my husband should have asked and informed you of his ns and schedules..." I said in a ''chin up--stomach in--chest out manner'' to show her who the real queen of beauty is. I haven''t missed how Gabriel gulped when he got a clear view of my cleavage. "And who are you again? Gabriel''s ex-girlfriend? Well, for your information, I am his wife, so if there''s anyone who should ask him about all his actions, it should be ''me! And if there is someone he should report his schedules every day, he just has to report it to me and me alone!" "Huh!" The look on her face couldn''t be able to describe even by the best analyst in town when I pulled Gabriel''s cor and kissed him hard on the lips... in front of his bitchy- Ex. I noticed his smile between our kiss but I ignored him and pulled the nack of his neck to deepen the kiss. And the jerk was really enjoying it as I felt his hand moved around my waist and entered his tongue inside my mouth to savour every inch of it. And I don''t know how long we stood in the middle, kissing each other, because the moment we pulled back, we heard the cheers of the people around us. I gasped but when I looked at him, he has a proud smile on his lips as he looked at me too. He seemed not bothered by the people watching us at that moment. He used his thumb to wipe the smudged lipstick off my lips and then he smiled as he pressed his forehead to mine, still cupping both of my cheeks. "I love you." And I heard those three words again.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. He kissed the tip of my nose before he pulled me into a hug. But I just gulped and didn''t answer him. The crowd was still cheering and pping their hands around us. Stacey is nowhere to be found. When everything seemed back to normal, I excused myself to use the bathroom. And who would have thought that the bitch was inside too and our paths were about to cross again? I found her washing her hands when I entered. She red at me and held her chin up before giving me her demonicugh. I just raised an eyebrow and chose to ignore her. I feel her hard gaze as I was washing my hands and when I was about to dry it on the hand dryer, she opened her filthy mouth. "So, just because Gabriel married you, you think he loves you?" she asked still wearing a devilish smirk. -''Ouch! way to add salt to the injury.''- And since I have no choice, I smiled and faced her. "Are you talking to me?" "Yes! Who else? No one is in this bathroom except us!" she raised her voice, but I remained calm. "Oh, I''m sorry, I thought you were talking to yourself." "Huh!" she sneered. "Let me tell you this, bitch! Gabriel is mine, no matter what happens, he will always be mine!" -''Did she just call me a bitch?-'' "Really? Since when did he be yours? Yes, you had him first, but you left him, so he''s now mine. He married me because he loves me and will you stop your illusions of iming my husband? Have at least a little shame inside you! And what did you call me---bitch? To tell you honestly, It doesn''t suit my personality, so don''t call me that, because I am more evil than that!" "Oh, yeah, that''s why he married you! You have a smart mouth! But I''m sure, you can''t give him the pleasure that only I can give him in bed! You can''t give him those best positions in bed we''ve tried and done before." her evil smile widened even more. I chuckled and tried to hide the hurt that popped inside my chest because I realized what she was saying were all true. "Is that how you understand marriage? Well, let me tell you then... our marriage was not based only on sex, pleasures and different positions we can try or do in bed because it''s based on love and respect we had for each other! For sure, that''s the reason why you left him before and chose to be with another man because you''re not satisfied with the sex he''s giving you! What are you--- a sexual maniac or sexual narcissist?" She seemed dumbfounded by my question. "You''re a stupid slut!" she screamed on top of her lungs and formed her two fists. But I chuckled again just to add to her ring nostrils. "You called me a slut? Oh, don''t pass me your tag and don''t call me that name, because I''m the opposite of a slut that you''re talking about! I don''t give a fuck to every man I encounter and I don''t open my legs to them! I only do it in front of my husband, well, unlike you!" She tried to p me, but I immediately grabbed her hand. "Don''t you every your hand on my pretty face!" She took it back andughed at me. "You know what, I underestimated you. You know how to defend yourself well and you also have an attitude!" "Ohh... don''t be confused with my personality and attitude, because my personality is me and my attitude depends on you... it''s just the result of your actions, so me yourself!" She didn''t say anything, but the look she gave me was something chilly that got into my bones. She picked up her bag and stomped her feet towards the door, but I have onest thing to say... "Maybe you should eat your makeup, so you can try and be pretty even on the inside... bitch!" When she exited the door, that''s when I let out a heavy breath that I didn''t know I was holding since I walked into the bathroom. I started wondering what Gabriel saw in her? I mean, I''m not insulting his tastes.. but I can''t see anything special with that woman! I looked at myself in the mirror and added some powder and a light touch of lipstick before deciding to go out and return to the venue. But I was on my way back to our table when someone showed up in front of me wearing his cute and boyish grin. "Greg?" I asked and a smile automatically formed on my lips. "Hi, beautiful youngdy. Can I have a dance with you?" he offered his hand and I didn''t hesitate to ept it. "What are you doing here?" I can''t help but ask while he''s guiding me to the dancefloor. "Well, I heard you''re here, so I decided toe." he winked at me and I chuckled heartily. "Are you also invited here?" "Ohe on, Madi, don''t waste this moment to interview your prince!" he red at me yfully god I had to cover my mouth to control myughter. "Oh God, Gregy boy! Stop copying my style!" we stopped in the middle and he put my hand on his shoulder and held the other, while his other hand is on my waist. "I''m sorry, I had no experience copying on your paper in college, so I''m just copying your style now," he whispered in my ear and chuckling. I just rolled my eyes and we started moving our bodies with the soft music ying around the venue. There were also a lot of couples dancing around. I heard him sighed and I looked up to him. "Why? Are you okay?" I asked him, but he just nodded and smiled at me, but I noticed a hint of sadness in his eyes. We were both lost and enjoying the music when we heard a low growl and a familiar voice behind me. "Aherm! Can I now have ''my wife'' and dance with her?" I looked around and found Gabriel ring at Greg. Then his eyes followed Greg''s hand over my waist. When I looked back at Greg, he has the same expression as Gabriel. "Love," I said trying to catch his attention. "Greg is also here---" "What are you doing here?" Gabriel ignored me and he growled at Greg. "Why? Is this your party?" Greg asked without even being affected by Gabriel''s hard gaze. -''Oh my God! What is this?''- "Love, let''s just go back to our table. Greg, thank you." I said smiling at Greg and put my hand in Gabriel''s chest while I circled the other one behind his back. "Gabriel please..." I whispered lowly. "I have to go, Madi." I heard Greg''s voice but when I was about to look at him, a pair of soft lips captured my lips. Then I realized, Gabriel was kissing me in front of Greg and in front of everyone. Chapter 52: Why? Why do I love you? Chapter 52: Why? Why do I love you? I pushed him but not in a way that could catch the attention of the crowd. "Gabriel, what is happening to you?" I whispered In his ears. "What is happening to me? You said you were just going to the bathroom and when I saw you, you''re dancing with Greg!" he said gripping my waist. "I was about to go back to the table when I saw him. He asked me to dance---" "And you agreed and danced with him!" "So what? What was wrong with that?" I also red at him. "I brought you here to make Stacey jealous and not me!" I was left speechless with what he said. -''He''s jealous?''- I noticed how he was also surprised by his own word, but he masked it immediately. "What I mean is that we''re ying a sweet couple here, Madi! What do you think would other people say when they see you dancing with another man?" "But Greg is not another man to me, Gabriel! He''s my friend too!" He looked at me suspiciously and I started to feel nervous. What if he asks me why I''m so closed with Greg? "Are you falling in love with Greg, Madi?" But the question he asked me wasn''t something I expected. There''s a different emotion in his eyes when he asked me that question. And because I was still in shock, I didn''t answer him right away.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "You don''t need to answer, I understand. I''m not in a position to ask you that." and then he left me with an open mouth. -''What is happening to him? He always seemed jealous of his cousin!''- He didn''t talk to me again until the party is over and even when we were inside the car. He was quiet but remained frowning all the way home, so I just busied myself looking out of the window. I don''t understand him. Sometimes he''s sweet, thoughtful but most of the times, grumpy. Well, what should I expect, he''s bipr, right? But I couldn''t help ncing at him as he drives. His ring shines on my face when we passed the street lights and I looked into myp where my hands were resting. I sighed and yed my ring. I swirled it around my ring finger and looked out of the window again. This ring symbolizes my name being tied with his. We were just a few blocks from his house when the heavy rain started pouring on the roof of the car. I smiled when I remember my childhood days. "Stop the car!" He looked at me with a deep frown on his forehead, but he also pulled over and stopped the car. I immediately opened the door and jumped outside. I heard him call my name but I just ignored him. I ran in the middle of the street and danced around with both arms in a sideward position. I smiled and looked up at the sky. I missed this. I missed everything in my homnd. I missed my childhood. Those days when my sister, my brother and I yed outside in the rain. And the tears started running down my cheeks, but since it''s raining heavily, nobody notices it. I remember what my brother said when I was only seven years old. -"If you want to cry but don''t want anyone to notice, go out when it''s raining and cry your heart out. Let the rain wash your tears."- Yeah... I''ll let the rain wash away all my tears, but I wish it can also wash away my pain. I wish it can also heal my aching heart. "Madi, what are you doing?" He was now out of the car and heading towards me. He removed his jacket and now in his shirt. I smiled bitterly as I watched him walk closer to me. Why do I love him? Why do I also have to feel this pain of loving him? Are these the consequences of loving someone whose heart was still tied to his past? "Madi, let''s go back!" he tried to grab my hand by I stepped back. "Get back in your car. I''m going to run in front of the gate." And I didn''t wait for his answer as I ran to the gate which is just 500 meters away from his car. "But Madi---" I heard him scream behind me, but I ran as fast as I can just like my tears flowing fast as if there''s no tomorrow. The guards immediately opened the gate when they saw Gabriel''s car. I also walked in towards the front door, but there was a strong hand that pulled me back and two muscr arms that engulfed me with a tight hug. Now we''re both drenched under the rain. He''s hugging me but I''m not hugging him back. I couldn''t stop the tears to flow, it just feels heavier now that he''s holding me. "You''re crying." It''s not a question but a statement thates from him, when he pulled back and cupped both of my cheeks. I tried to avoid his gaze but he held my face and tried to meet my eyes. "Why?" I closed my eyes when I heard him ask me... why? I was also asking so many ''why'' to myself. I looked at him and my eyes asked silently. -''Why? Why Gabriel? Why do I love you? Why it has to be you of all people? Why not be Greg or someone around? Why couldn''t I teach my heart not to fall in love with you? Why?''- "Shhh..." He said wiping my tears. I bit my lip to control my sobs and his eyes followed the movement of my lips. I just closed my eyes when he lowered his head and then I felt his lips on top of mine. He kissed me... the most passionate kiss he could give me. And I instantly melt with his touch, with his kiss and I kissed him back. -''How can I stop myself from loving you?''- We''ve been in the rain for I don''t know how long. When we pulled back, he hugged me again and kissed my forehead before taking my hand. We walked to the front door, without even saying a word. We went up the stairs but no one dared to speak until we were both at our bedroom door. I thought he''s already going to open his door, but he opened mine and pulled me inside. I didn''t say anything. I didn''tin. I just watched him pull a clean white towel out of the drawer and then took me into the shower room. When we were inside, he sighed and stopped in front of the shower enclosure. "Please, take a bath and clean up so you don''t catch a cold. I''ll be back." I just nodded and he handed me the towel before walking out of the door. I started cleaning myself and put on my sleeping clothes. When I got out of the bathroom, I found him sitting on the edge of the bed with a phone in his hand. But I also noticed that he''s already cleaned up and in his sleeping clothes. I walked over to him and when he noticed me, he immediately got up and walked over to the bedside table. He gave me a ss of water and a green tablet. I looked at him and was about to ask if what the green tablet is for, but he has already answered the question in mind. "You spent almost an hour in the rain, that''s just to prevent you from having a cold." If I was in the mood right at that moment, I wouldugh at him with his ''cold prevention tablet''. I didn''t know we can also drink medicine for invisible colds or impending colds. Because I remember my Mom was just giving me that medicine when I already have a cold. How silly of me, right? But I just remained silent. I just followed what he told me to do. He took the ss from my hand and put it back where it was ced earlier. Then I climbed up onto the bed andy downfortably. But I didn''t expect his next move. He also pulled half of theforter andid down next to me. I was about to look at him but he was fast and he immediately pulled me closer to him. I gasped as he lifted my head and put his right hand under it and his other hand encircled around my waist. I wanted to ask him what he was doing but he beat me again. "Don''t open your mouth, I know what you''re thinking. Just close your eyes and sleep. I''m just here. I won''t do anything, I won''t talk. I''ll just hold you until you sleep." He looked at me and kissed my forehead and then smiled. "Good night, Madi." I smiled back and shifted myself closer to him as he also pulled me closer to his chest while repeatedly kissed the top of my head. "Good night, Gab," I whispered softly and then closed my eyes with a smile on my lips. Chapter 53: You will never understand Chapter 53: You will never understand Gabriel''s POV: I pulled her closer to me and kissed her forehead when she finally fell asleep. I moved myself a bit to look at her sleeping face. I don''t know why she cried earlier, but that''s something I never want to see in her ever again if that''s possible. I want to hold her and tell her things that will make her stop crying. I''m jealous. And now I admit I''m jealous, especially when she''s talking to Greg. She''s happy, she always smiles and evenughs. I''m jealous of those things he can do with her and I can''t. I am her husband, but I can''t make her happy and I don''t even have to right to feel that way. I pushed some of her hair behind her ears, which now covering her face and I smiled. I was right from the very start that she''s perfect as well as being my wife. -''I hope you''ll stay, Madi. I hope you''ll stay with me. I can''t state exactly what I feel for you right now, but I know you''re important to me. And believe it or not, I''ve started to care about you. I can''t even think of one day of going home without you in this house, without seeing your beautiful face and your smile... ...I wish I could tell you these things, but I''m not brave enough to face you and these feeling. I hope you can wait for me. I hope you were still here when I''mplete again. The time I am ready to give you myself without looking back to the past behind me. If you''ll still be here when that timees, Madi, I promise I will be next to you in your every waking time in the morning and before you go to sleep at night... ...I will hold you tight, hold your hand, hug you and kiss you every hour and every day of my life. But for now, I can''t promise you anything. I just want first to be a better man, for you. So when I face you by that moment, I can proudly shout in front of everyone that I am yours and you are mine alone... I know I am being a jerk to you most of the time, but believe me, this jerk of a man next to you is the first person who doesn''t want to see you cry. All I want is to make you smile. I want you to be mine, Madi, when everything falls into their right ce..''- I smiled as she moved her face closer to my chest. It feels so natural andfortable to hug her as if we''ve been doing it for a long time. Her skin is so soft and you can never see a single scar on her arm or even a pimple mark on her face. She looks like an angel when she sleeps, so peaceful yet so beautiful. It''s already one in the morning when sleep has visited me. *** I woke up feeling something heavy on my waist. I tried to move my body but then I heard a small moan. "Hmm..." And when I traced the small arm over my stomach, the smile formed on my lips. She''s here beside me, sleeping like a baby. She has a small pout on her lips and I wish I could always kiss that pout on her. I hitched my breath when her knee moved up between my legs, under my precious jewels. I gulped and tried to move it away but she snuggled more to me and pressed her knee to that precious part of mine. -''Oh fuck!''- "Hmm..." My eyes went wide when she moaned and that precious thing began to twitch. And I didn''t try to move again, because the more I tried, the more she pressed her knee. I just hugged her and kissed her on the forehead. And after thirty minutes of watching her sleep, I have already memorized how many moles she has on her face and where each one was ced. "Good morning." I smiled at her when she looked up at me with her half-closed eyes. "Good mor---" her eyes widened when she noticed her arm around me, but as she moved quickly she identally gave my jewels knee. "Ohh!" I crashed in bed due to the sudden pain. "Oh my God! I''m sorry!" she jolted up and tried to touch it but I held her hand. "Don''t!" I said through the surging pain. "Oops! I''m sorry, Gab." she bit her lips and I closed my eyes so I can stop myself from thinking about something she wouldn''t appreciate. I sighed when I can already take the pain. When I looked at her, I found her blushing and how I wish to kiss her all over her face to take that beautiful blush away. "It''s okay, maybe I can still have one or two children in the future." she chuckled and her voice sounded like music to my ears. "How are you?" I asked when she had alreadyposed herself fromughing. "I''m okay. Why did you ask?" she looked at me, confused. "Because you criedst night." "Ahh..." she said and looked into herp. "I just missed my Mom and my siblings." "You have siblings?" "Yeah, one brother and one sister. Anyway, what time is it?" she asked and I noticed that she just wanted to change the topic. But I didn''t insist, maybe she doesn''t want to talk about it. I checked the time from her clock. "It''s 8:15, why?" "Uhm... I''m hungry. I didn''t eat muchst night at the party, because of your bitchy ex!" she pouted and Iughed at her. "I''m sorry, anyway, what do you want for breakfast?" N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. She looked at me and raised her eyebrow. "Why? Will you cook for me?" "Uhm..y-yeah...I - I''ll try.." I said scratching the back of my head. "It''s okay. Let me cook for this time because for sure you''re going to ask one of your maids to help you." "Wow! You''re so talented, how did you know about that?" I asked grinning. "Of course! I am Madi!" and she confidently got up from bed. "Huh? What do you mean by ''I''m Madi''? Well, I am Gabriel too." she justughed at me when I said I am Gabriel too. "You won''t understand. When I say ''I''m Madi'', that means, I am Madi, the ever beautiful, confident and strong Madi! Do you now get it?" she confidently stood up and posed in front of me while saying those lines. I was left open-mouthed. That''s the first time I''ve seen her so carefree in front of me. "Tsk.Tsk.Tsk. You don''t understand, do you?" she asked me again and I looked at her. "Haist! Never mind! You will never understand because you''re right. You''re Gabriel!" she threw her hands in the air before heading to the bathroom. -''What?''- "What do you mean, I will never understand because I''m Gabriel?" I tried to ask her but she already closed the bathroom door. -''What does she mean by that?''- *** Madi''s POV: -''You will never understand because you are Gabriel. The Gabriel who doesn''t know about me, who doesn''t know about my feelings.''- He''s already in the kitchen when I walked out of my room and he''s preparing pancake batter. I took it from him and started cooking our breakfast. It only took thirty minutes and we''re now sitting across from each other. "I''m going to visit my Mom on Saturday," I said after taking a sip of my coffee. "Hmm... sure, where is she? I''ll make my schedules free for that day," he said without looking at me. "No, it''s okay, you don''t have to. She''s in Florida and I''m nning to stay there for two days ---" I looked at him when he dropped his utensils. "You''re going to Florida--- for two days?" he asked with disbelief written on his face. "Yeah. That''s my homnd, and I really missed my Mom." "I''m going with you!" he said seriously. "Gab, you don''t need---" "I insist. I''m going with you and we''re both going to visit your family." I bit my lips with the word... family. "But how about your ns with Stacey?" I just asked instead. "Don''t worry about it. It''s just for two days." -''Yeah, just for two days.''- "Okay. I''m going to book two ne tickets now." "Don''t bother yourself about that, we''ll use my jet." he''s now done with his food and I remember one thing I need to rify with him regarding our visit with my Mom. "Gab, uhm... I - I didn''t tell my Mom that we''re married. I don''t want her to ask me some questions regarding this marriage thing and this agreement." I know my mom was always pushing me to get someone to love and marry, but I''m sure she won''t be happy when she knows about this deal and that I just got married because I love him, but he doesn''t love me. "Ohh... " he looked at me and nodded. "When we get there, can we just pretend... uhm... girlfriend and boyfriend? At least she wouldn''t be surprised with it." "Uhuh... okay. But, can''t we even say we''re engaged?" "Okay, let''s say we''re already engaged, but when she asks about the wedding or when are we going to get married, let''s just tell her maybe next year or when we finally settled everything." "Alright, so what time are we going?" "Maybe 7:00 in the morning." "That''s fine." I sighed and smiled at him. He took my hand which was on top of the table and smiled at me. "Don''t worry so much about it. Everything will be fine." I didn''t say anything, but I just smiled again. *** When Friday afternoon came, he again took an early out from work. If thest time was four in the afternoon, now it''s one hour earlier than thest time. But of course, who am I to ask him, so I just remained quiet and watched him enter the elevator. "Why is ''your husband'' is taking undertime again?" Sandy asked as she now standing on the door frame of her office. "You don''t have to ask that question because the answer is really obvious." I said and walked back to my seat, but Sandy, being Sandy.... she followed me. "Hmm... well, for sure he''s going to see his ex--- Oops! wrong term! It''s now ''mistress''. He''s going to see his mistress!" I red at her. "Do you really have to mention that in front of me?" "Oops! I''m sorry!" she covered her mouth as she acted innocently. "I forgot that you are ''the wife''. You''re now Mrs Wilsons." she really pointed her finger at me andughed just to add my annoyance. "Sandy Agur! You''re really having fun pissing me off!" "Yeah, I''m having a lot of fun. I wish you''d seen your face." and sheughed even more. If it''s not a mortal sin to kill a friend and a workmate, I swear I''m gonna chop her into pieces and feed her to my neighbor''s dog. "Anyway, what if he doesn''te home until tomorrow, like thest time? What are you going to do? Are you going to cancel your flight?" she asked me seriously and I sighed. "No. I''m still going, with or without him." "Hmm, so you better book a ticket now, just to be sure. We don''t know what he''s going to do all night, maybe he''ll fuck his ex again." "God, Sandy! Your mouth is as dirty as his ex''s mouth!" She chuckled at me. "Oh, Madielyn Davis---I mean, Wilsons, don''t you everpare me to that slut, duh! She''s just a speck of dirtpared to me! Tss!" she rolled her eyes at me as we bothughed together. Well, at least this time she''s right. Chapter 54: A mothers hug Chapter 54: A mother''s hug It''s was 6:45 am when I decided to take a taxi and headed to the airport. Sandy was right about booking a ne ticket for n B, in case Gabriel didn''t show up. And yeah, she''s right, he didn''te homest night and thanks to God, I listened to her. I tried to call himst night and this morning but I got even more frustrated, he didn''t answer my calls. I''ve already sent him some text messages but so far I haven''t received any reply from him. Then so be it! I can go without him. I stopped calling him when I got to the airport. He forgot about this for sure. Well, he always forgets everything when he''s with her... so what would I expect, right? -''Huh! The man you choose to love is still in love with someone else, so take the pain! If you''re not just a big stupid and idiot, you already know that he hasn''t gotten over yet from his past, but you let yourself fall in love with him! Take it!''- my mind screamed inside. And to avoid thinking about him, I turned off my phone and tried to sleep. I just need to wait 2 to 3 hours and I am in my homnd. *** "My baby!" My mom screamed when she noticed a taxi parked in front of the ck gate. She immediately ran towards the gate with our two maids also running after her. "Oh my God! My baby, I missed you so much!" she pulled me into a tight hug and kissed me all over my face. "I missed you too, Mom," I said not noticing the warm fluid flowing down on my face. "Ohh... is that how you missed your old mother?" "Mom?" I pouted at what she said but I hugged her again. I missed her, I missed her hug, I missed herfort and everything in her. I missed my mom. I wanted to tell everything like when I was a kid when I was still her little Madi, but I can''t. "Why are you crying, baby? You''re here now and your old mother is in front of you." She said chuckling as she wiped away my tears. But you can see in her eyes that she''s just controlling herself not to cry in front of me. Why am I crying? It''s for two things... number one, I missed my mother''s hug and number two... I''m so upset about what''s going on in my life right at that moment. "By the way, why are you alone? I thought you''re going to introduce your boyfriend to your Mom?" "Yeah, but I told you he''s a busy person, Mom. He''s the CEO of one of thergestpany in Chicago." I smiled and did my best not to bite my lips. She knows when I''m lying. "Oh, I see." "But don''t worry, I''ll call himter." "Okay. Let''s go inside so you can start telling me your love story with this lucky boyfriend of yours." She kissed my temple and we headed towards the huge double wooden door. "Oh my God!" I murmured loudly the moment I walked into our home. I inhaled the familiar scent of jasmine and the morning breezeing from the air conditioner. It''s my Mom''s favorite scent. "I missed this Mom." I turned to her and hugged her again. "Don''t worry, your home misses you too, sweetie." We stayed there for a moment, as I enjoy listening to her uninterrupted story about home decorations, business parties, new vors of her cakes and all the life issues of her favorite actors and actresses. She dragged me to the kitchen and the aroma of my favorite Italian Bolognese pasta hit my nostrils. "Oh gosh! I love you, Mom!" I kissed her on the cheek before running and sitting at the dining table. I really can''t wait any moment to taste that recipe of my mother. "Hey! Take it easy, Madielyn. Nobody''s gonna take that from you. That''s all yours!" she pulled another chair next to me and gave me a ss of dndan juice. "I''m sorry, Mom," I said as I nibbled the creamy pasta inside my mouth. She just smiled and shook her head. I took the ss of juice and brought it to my mouth, just to identally spit it out with my Mom''s next question. "Are you pregnant?" I coughed so hard when the juice got into my nose. Where did she get that question, for goodness sake? Even the maids were shocked by her question. "Oh, I''m sorry, baby. I didn''t mean to startle you." she rubbed my back and gave me some tissue. "Mom, where did you get that question?" I asked while still coughing. "I - I just want to ask. Why is it true? Are you pregnant?" I don''t know if the expression on her face is something you would expect or the other way around. I couldn''t read her eyes. "What if I were? Is it okay with you?" I looked at her and watched the changes in her expression. "Oh my goodness! So it''s true, you''re pregnant?" she squealed and got up quickly. "Mom! I was just asking!" "So, are you really pregnant?" N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "No! Of course not! I told you, I was just asking!" She sat down again and sighed. "I thought I was going to be a grandmom." I chuckled when she pouted at me. "Mom, I promise, one day I''ll give you a grandchild, but not now, I''m not yet ready." I held both of her hands. "Hmmp! Madielyn, when are you going to get married? You''re not getting any younger!" Haist! When was thest time I heard those lines? I shook my head and rolled my eyes. "I really need to meet your boyfriend, Madielyn! I will tell him to get you pregnant, so you can give me a grandchild before this year ends!" she crossed her arms over her chest. While I, I was left speechless and I don''t know if I willugh or what... but in the end, I just choose to laugh at her. "You''re really not that eager to have a grandchild Mom, are you?" I asked stillughing. "Because I am so bored waiting!" "And just because you''re bored, you want your baby to get pregnant in an instant?" "Hey, Madielyn! You''re no longer a baby! I''m just calling you baby because you are my only child." "I love you, Mom." I got and kissed her on the cheek. "Hmmp! I love you, too. Are you done eating? Let''s go to your room and I''ll help you unpack your things. *** "So, what are your ns now? You and your boyfriend?" I sighed when she opened that topic again. We''re in the living room, watching TV while my head was resting on herp as shebed my hair with her fingers. "Uhm... for now, we''re still enjoying our rtionship as boyfriend and girlfriend." I tried to avoid looking into her eyes. I just focused on watching some randommercials while waiting for my favorite drama series to start. "Hmm..." she said and I noticed her nodding. "By the way, one of your friends from cooking school came herest month." I crunched my eyebrows and I looked up at her face. "Who''s friend?" "Uhm... I''ve always forgotten his name. Oh! It''s Anderson boy!" I chuckled when I heard that name. "Mom! It''s Greg!" I saidughing. "I told you, I''ve always forgotten his name!" Anderson boy, was her nickname with Greg since we were in college and sometimes I even called him that. "What did he say, I mean why did he visit you?" "I don''t know." She shrugged. "He said he wanted to see you, but I said you''re not staying here and you''re in Chicago. He also brought some food and fruits here. You know what, I like that boy. He''s so sweet and caring." "Mom! You''ve always told me that since I was in college." It''s true, she has always been a fan of Greg. Anderson boy is so sweet, Anderson boy is caring, Anderson boy has a cute dimple, and Anderson boy is h..h..h..h... "Why didn''t you learn to love him or even like him, Madi?" I sighed and got up from herp. I settled into afortable sitting position before answering her hundred-year-old question. "Mom, I already told you my answer and please, I now have a boyfriend. Let''s not talk about this Anderson boy of yours." "I''m just asking, baby." she chuckled at me. But I remember to ask her one question, maybe she could give me an answer to my own questions. "Mom, why did you love Dad?" Herugh instantly died and her face turned serious. But then she smiled and patted her side, gesturing me to sit next to her. And I sighed before asking her again. "Why did you love him, Mom? Even though you know he was already taken by that time and that he has his own family? Why did you choose to stay when you know you were just his second option?" She smiled and took both of my hands. "I''ve loved him since we were young, Madi, like what I''ve always told you. We''re best friends, sharing everything and anything, but his parents have another n for him at that time. They went to Canada and forced him to marry his wife, but when we met again after five years, we both realized that our love for each other remained. And because I love him, I once became his mistress, I once became a stupid and madly in love with your father." She sighed before she continued. "And regarding your question, why did I choose to stay? I don''t know another reason for that, Madi, I just know that I love him." "Even when you know that it can affect his rtionship with his wife?" "No, Madi. I didn''t mean that thing. I was just in love and was choosing what my heart dictated over what my mind was telling me at that time. I didn''t say it was right, because it''s not. But if there''s one thing I didn''t regret, it''s having you inside me, Madi." I smiled and hugged her tightly. "But I hope you will choose a better man for yourself. Don''t fall in love with a stupid and don''t be stupid!" I gulped after hearing the word ''stupid''. "Our story was different Madi, we loved each other before he got married to someone else. I''ve been a fool, a stupid and a mistress. So I''m telling you, I want you to choose the one who can love you, who would love you and make you his number one priority. The one whose heart belongs to you and you alone. Never follow in my footsteps. Don''t make me your role model, Madi." I hid my face in the crook of her neck. -''I''m sorry, Mom. I wish I could teach my heart.''- "I want you to be happy, my baby. I want to see you walk to the altar with a happy smile and tears on your face. Promise me, baby." she rubbed my back and kissed my hair. "Tell me about this boyfriend of yours. Is he as handsome and cute as this Anderson boy?" I started rolling my eyes. "Is he tall, broad-shouldered, pointed nose like my favorite Hollywood star, Tom Cruise?" "Mom, he''s like a Greek god," I said andughed at her reaction. "Oh my God! I''m really excited to meet him, Madielyn!" Iughed again, but before I could open my mouth, the inte next to my mom... buzzed. The call came from the guards and they said there''s someone on the gate who introduced himself as my ''boyfriend''. My Mom looked at me and my eyes went wide -''Oh shit! He''s here?''- Chapter 55: Mom meets the boyfriend Chapter 55: Mom meets the boyfriend Madi''s POV: "You''re boyfriend is here?" I bit my lips when she turned to me with the same wide eyes as mine. "I thought you said he''s busy? Ohh... did he follow you all the way from Chicago?" "Uhm.." "Oh my baby, I''m so excited to meet him! Come on!" she said as she stood up and pulled my hand. "Mom...?" Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org. "Come on, Madielyn! I can''t wait to see him!" she excitedly pulled me to the front door. Yeah, she''s more excited than me. -''Oh dear God! Why did you let my Mom be single at this age? Why didn''t you give her the second man in her life?" I gulped when I saw him standing outside the gate, wearing only a in white shirt and denim pants. He also wears ck sunsses and with a suitcase in his right hand. He''s so hot, sexy and good looking in his simple outfit, but I''ve felt again the same feeling of disappointment when I remember how many times I''ve tried to call him sincest night and how many text messages I''ve sent to him just to ask him if he''s still willing to go with me. But I got no response from all of it. He took off his sunsses and looked at me with a hint of regret in his both eyes. Then the guard pressed the automatic controller to open the huge gate and do you know what was the next thing that happened? My dearest mother ran to Gabriel and hugged him tightly with the biggest grin in her both eyes and then she turned to me. "Oh my God, Madielyn! Am I already in heaven? Am I seeing God now? Oh gosh, your boyfriend is so handsome!" I bit my lips when I saw Gabriel''s eyes sparkle with amusement as he watched me and my Mom. "He''s more handsome than Tom Cruise!" she said as she smiled widely and I need to put a hand on my face to cover myself from blushing. -''I feel you, Mom, but dear God! I am asking you again, why did you let her be single at this moment?''- "Hi, I''m Cherry, Madi''s mother." she offered him her hand for a handshake and he immediately epted it, bringing it to his lips. And I almost rolled my eyes when I saw Mom''s reaction. "I''m Gabriel, Madi''s boyfriend. It''s an honor for me to meet you, Mrs Davis," he said smiling, but I noticed how my Mom stiffened at hisst words. "Ohh... yeah, it''s also nice to finally meet the one who captured my daughter''s heart." she smiled and just ignored his words. "By the way, Madi said you''re busy. Was that the reason you''rete now?" "Y-Yes Ma''am, I''m sorry if I leave your daughter alone in her flight." "Oh, it''s okay, but please, just call me Cherry or Aunt Cherry or maybe you can also call me Mom, like Madi." she winked at him. "Can I choose thest one?" "Oh sure, sweetie! Call me Mom. I would appreciate that." I was just watching them exchange their sweet and cutements. "Love," I also stiffened when he turned to me and called me with that term of endearment and because we were in front of my mother, I need to behave normally again... the same old Madi in front of her. I smiled at him and pouted. "I thought you were busy!" He smiled back and pulled me into a tight hug. His manly scent mixed with his cologne filled my nostrils. "I''m sorry. I just had an important thing to do, that''s why I can''t answer my phone. I''m sorry." he whispered softly in my ear as he repeatedly kissed my head and my temple. -''Yeah, I already know. You''re busy with her and who am I toin, I''m just nothing to you''- I gulped to control my emotions. When I didn''t say anything, he pulled back and looked at me directly in the eye. "I''m sorry." He said, his voice barely a whisper as he cupped both my cheeks. I stared at him and I don''t know if he saw the hurt in both my eyes because he muttered a curse very lowly. "Damned it!" He kissed me twice on my forehead before pulling me again and hugged me tightly. He put his head in the crook of my neck, whispering his apology, but our little scene came different to my mother''s eyes. For her, Gabriel was just apologising foringte and for leaving me alone on my flight. "Ahh... you''re so sweet, my babies! Young love, sweet love," she said dreamily as she smiled widely at us. I pulled back and took a deep breath before trying to smile again. "It''s okay love, at least you came." I kissed his cheek so I can show my mother that there''s nothing wrong between us. "So, I think I don''t need to introduce my Mom because she has already introduced herself," I said looking at my mother who was ring at me yfully. "And Mom, for sure you already know my boyfriend''s name, right?" "Hmp! Don''t mind her Gab," she said grabbing Gabriel''s arm. "Nickname basis in an instant?" I just asked myself in a very low voice. "Muttering something, Madielyn? You can share it with us." I bit my lips, she heard me! "Oh, it''s nothing Mom," I said chuckling. "What I mean is... shall we go inside?" "Oh yeah, just put your suitcase there. Someone''s gonna take it inside. Let''s go." My Mom leads to the front door and I felt Gabriel''s hand intertwine with mine. I looked at him with a silent question in my eyes, but he just smiled and kissed me on the forehead. When we were inside, I noticed how his eyes wandered throughout the living room. "Madi, show Gabriel his room first and thene back in here so we can serve him your best dishes." she winked at me and we were about to turn around when she called me again. "Or it''s better to let him stay in your room. You know what I mean." she wiggled her eyebrows and I heard Gabriel chuckle behind me and my face blushed in thousands of shades of tomato. "Mom?" I red at her but she justughed at me. "Why? You''re both adults, you can do---" "Oh my gosh! Don''t listen to my Mom!" I pulled Gabriel''s hand. I really wish the floor would open up and swallow me at the moment when he''s stillughing behind me. "I like your Mom., he said when we were about to go up the huge staircase. "I''m sorry, she''s not a conservative person. You know," I shrugged. "No, I said I like her. It''s really fun talking to her." "I know, but she''s also a straightforward person. If she likes you, you will know immediately from how she greeted you. But if not, she would never beat around the bush and will tell you personally and immediately when she sees you." I sighed letting go of his hand, but he took it again. I looked at him but his eyes weren''t on me but on the frames hanging on the wall as we climbed up the upstairs. "You didn''t tell me you live in a huge mansion and you''re also a princess." I know it was just a joke, so I just smiled and shrugged. "Don''t worry, it''s not just you who didn''t know about it." "You mean, some of your friends didn''t know you live in a castle?" "It''s not a castle. Yeah, it''s a huge house, but for me, it''s more a home than a mansion." "But why did you choose to live in a small apartment in Chicago?" Iughed at his question. In fact, I couldn''t count in my head how many times I heard that question. "Because for me it''s not important whether you live in a house or a castle----" "No, what I mean is that you used to live here. How did you adjust so easily?" "Ahm... maybe because I''m used to living in a simple way. Yes, I grew up here, but my Mom always told me to keep my feet on the ground. She never let me used to live with a nanny or with maids around me. She let me wash my own clothes, clean my own room and everything a girl should know about being a woman." "Really?" he asked me as if he couldn''t believe the new information he heard from me. "Yeah. Really." I smiled and nodded. "Here''s your room." I opened the door which was just next to my room. "The next one is my room." I pointed to the next door. "So...?" I asked after he wandered his eyes around. "Well, it''s nice and cosy," he said putting both hands in his pants pocket. "Can I see your room?" "And why?" I frowned. He shrugged. "Nothing. I just want topare your room here and your room in our house." I gulped when he said ''our house'' instead of ''his house''. "Okay." I shrugged. Chapter 56: Shes indeed a princess Chapter 56: She''s indeed a princess Gabriel''s POV: "Madi, can I borrow your boyfriend for a few minutes?" Madi and I both chuckled at her Mom''s question. We''re currently in the kitchen and she and her Mom were preparing food for dinner. Although they have maids, they choose to cook their own meals. "Mom, what kind of question is that? Can''t you just simply say you''re going to talk to him?" Madi asked as she cut the vegetables. "Shh! You just made it more formal, but it''s still the same!" "Okay, fine!" she said rolling her eyes. I can''t help butugh at their way of conversation. They were like best friends rather than a mother and a daughter. "Let''s go, Gabriel." her mother took my hand and pulled me out of the kitchen, but we heard Madi ask her again. "Where are you taking him, Mom?" She put her index finger to her lips, gesturing for me to keep quiet. "I just want to talk to him, that''s all. Don''t worry he''s all yours." And by that time, Iughed really hard. We heard herining in the kitchen but her Mom ignored her and continued to drag me upstairs. At first, I was confused as to why she was pulling me and where we are going, but she has already answered my silent questions. "I''ll show you something, but don''t tell my stubborn daughter about this. It''s just our secrets, okay?" I smiled and nodded. We continued upstairs to the hallway and when we got to the end, she opened a door and the light switch inside. And my eyes widened for what I saw... trophies, certificates in frames that were half hanging on the wall and half were inside the ss cabs. There were also some pictures... pictures of Madi in school uniform, with medals and in the oval field and some were in front of the school and many more that I couldn''t point where. "These have all been her achievements in schools, in work and business." I crunched my eyebrows with the word business but remained quiet. I just let her continue what she was saying. "Here, let''s start with this one." She opened the door of the ss cab and pointed Madi''s photo in a sports uniform that I don''t know which sport is and an oval field in her background. "This one was taken in her high school days. She was only fourteen when she won in a track and field competition." "S-She won in that sport? She''s an athlete before?" "Yes, she''s an athlete, son, when she''s in high school. She always brought a medal, trophy or certificate for that sport." My mouth hung open with the information. I can''t believe she yed sports too. "And who would have thought she would enroll in a cooking school in college? I thought she would take something rted to sports, but she took up Hotel and Restaurant Management." And then she giggled, but the frown in my forehead just got deeper. She took up HRM? She enrolled in a cooking school? But as I remember, she took business in college? "W-Wait," I said interrupting her for a while. "Madi enrolled in a cooking school in college? But I thought she took a business course?" Sheughed at me. "Yeah, but that''s just her second course after finishing the first one," she said grabbing my hand again. "Come here." she pulled me to the second cab of trophies and certificates. There were photos of her in front of her school and a very familiar restaurant behind her. She''s at the microphone and cutting ribbons, and receiving certificates. And because I don''t understand, I turned to Mrs Davis again. "Why is she cutting the ribbon in front of this restaurant?" I asked pointing to the one with which she has scissors and a ribbon in her other hand. "That one was taken during the grand opening of her first restaurant---" "She has a restaurant?" I asked cutting her off again. Madi has a restaurant? "Ohh... don''t you know?" she asked me back, chuckling. "For sure my daughter has a lot of things to discuss with youter. Okay, I''ll tell you half of her secrets and I''ll let her tell you the rest. Is that okay with you?" "Y-Yeah... that''s fine with me, Mrs Davis," I answered nodding. But I noticed that she suddenly got serious. "That''s one of the secrets I need to tell you. Madi is the only Davis in this house." "Huh? What do you mean she''s the only Davis in your house?" "Because her father and I weren''t married, so I''m still Petterson until now," she said smiling... again. "Ohh..." I don''t know how to form words right at that moment, but I remember one thing that Madi said to me. "But she said, she has a brother and sister? Where are they?" "I''m sorry, son, but I think it''s better to ask her that instead of me. If she''s willing to open up her past life, then it''s good, but if she''s still not okay, just wait patiently until she''s ready." "It''s okay, I''ll just try to ask her whenever she''s ready about this matter." "Thank you, son. Let''s go back to our topic earlier. As I was saying with this picture, it was when she opened her first restaurant. Are you familiar with the name ''Maiden''?" My eyebrows furrowed again. That name sounds familiar to me. And my eyes widened in the realization. "She owned that restaurant? That fine-dining restaurant in Chicago?" "Yes, it has now three branches in your city and from what I heard, she''s expanding again into four branches." I was totally blown away by that. Now I know why she didn''t ept the money I offered her from our deal. But what still a mystery to me, was the reason she had kept all of this information in her life. She''s a secretive and a reserved person. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. "But why did she choose to open her business in Chicago instead of her homnd?" She smiled at me and then shook her head. "Because my daughter wanted to create her own identity. Her name and her business. She doesn''t want to help her old mother with our own business here." "Was that why she chose to live in just a small apartment?" "Oh, yes, she doesn''t want others to know who she really is. And she hates having bodyguards. You know what, I''m so proud of her aplishments. She did it on her own, though it sometimes makes me sad that she wants to have her own business rather than be known for being my daughter." she sighed heavily. "You have a business too, Mom?" but then she smiled widely when she heard me call her ''Mom''. "Just keep on calling me that. I like it and I''ll make sure you two end up in front of the altar, soon." I gulped with the word ''altar''. "And regarding your question, yes, I also have my own business. If you''re familiar with ''Green Ribbon Cakes''?" she asked casually. "Green Ribbon like Green Ribbon cakes and pastries?" "Yes, it''s actually my family''s business, but as I''m an only child like Madi, I have no choice but to manage it. And this will be my biggest problem in the future, why? Because my only daughter chose to cook instead of baking." I don''t what to say at that moment. Their family owned one of thergestpany that makes and sells cakes and pastries in the whole state. And Madi is indeed a princess, but she chose to live in a low profile way. We moved to the certificates hanging on the wall. "But you know what, I''m d that she has a boyfriend now." she held my hand and gave me sincere smile. "You are her first boyfriend, son. I hope you can make her happy. I can see both in your eyes, how you love each other. Sometimes, you are going through a rough and difficult part in your rtionship, but I hope you can both stay strong and keep each other. As a mother, there are just two things I wanted to ask you in favor. Don''t hurt my daughter, son, andst but not the least, love her. Love her the way she deserves. She''s tough and strong on the outside, but her heart is too fragile on the inside, Gabriel." I don''t know but I felt like there was cold water poured all over my body. "I promise," I said and then her smile widened even more. "You know what, I think I like you more than Madi''s friend and suitor in college. You''re more handsome than him." My head snapped automatically at her and she winked at me. "A friend and a suitor?" Chapter 57: To become a better man for her Chapter 57: To be a better man for her "A friend and a suitor?" "Yes. What''s that boy''s name again?" She said thinking the name of whoever it was. I felt my heart stop beating as I waited for her to speak again. "Oh, it''s Garry!" she squealed excitedly. "Garry?" "No.No, wait! It''s not Garry." then she tried thinking again. "Ahh... it''s Greg! Yeah, it''s Greg I''m sure of it. Thank God, I finally remember the name of that sweet boy." Then I was left thinking. Greg. I wasn''t sure if the person she was talking about was the same person I know. Greg also studied in Florida and Florida is Madi''s homnd. But as they say, there''s no harm in trying... trying to ask. "What''s the name again of her friend?" "His name is Greg. Come here, she has a picture of him. They were so close back in their school days. They took the same course and this sweet boy was always taking care of my daughter." She took my hand and we sat on the three-seater sofa near thest cab. She took something from the drawer. An album. A photo album. "Here. You can see their pictures and their circle of friends in college." She gave me the green album and started scanning the pages, but my hand was stuck in one of the photos. It''s Madi with three girls and ''Greg'' my cousin and my best friend, wearing a cooking school uniform. "Greg Anderson," I muttered just to myself but she heard it. "Yes, Greg Anderson. How did you know him and hisst name?" she asked looking directly into my eyes. "Uhm..." "I usually call him Anderson boy. He''s the one who never stopped being friends with my daughter and you know what, I remember once he asked me if he can go out and court my daughter. And then I told him, it''s not my decision to make, but he never stopped. Until now he keepsing back just to know if she''s okay and ask about her situation. He''s very persistent and has great patience because it''s been eight years since his feelings for Madi started. I frowned with the newest information I heard. Madi''s identity was a lot to take, but knowing she and Greg were best friends in college and he''s still insistent on going out with her until now, it makes me want to punch something. I put my fist under the photo album and formed it in a hardball. "Wait, I''m not telling you this to make you jealous. I''m just sharing a little bit of my daughter''s life and school days story." "No, Mom, it''s okay and I''m not jealous." I tried to smile but deep inside, I really wanted to see my dearest cousin and punch him over and over in his face. Now, understand why he told me to take care of Madi for him. Why he was so affected when he met my assistant and when we got married. Now I know his reasons. He likes her since then. "Anyway, don''t worry, it''s in the past and my daughter already has you right now." "Uhm... I have something to confess, Mom." I said closing the cover of the album. "Yes, what is it." "Greg Anderson is my best friend. He''s actually my cousin. First cousin on my mother''s side." "Whoa! Is that true? But I didn''t see you with him in thest few years?" "Actually both of our families were originally from Chicago, but after our high school graduation, they moved here to Florida and he finished his studies here while our family also migrated to Belleville, but our business remained in Chicago." "Ohh... I see, but does my daughter know about this too?" "Yes, I actually introduced her to my family and Greg was there." "Hmm..." she said nodding. "We''re actually engaged, Mom." Her eyes widened with what I blurted out. She also straightened her seat. Actually, I don''t really know why I did that, but I just felt a little possessive now with Madi, especially when I heard that Greg wasn''t just a friend to her, but he once became a part of her life even until now. "Oh my God! Is that true? Were you and my baby engaged?" "Yes---" I didn''t finish my sentence when she lunged at me and hugged me tightly. "Oh my gosh! I''m happy, son with this news! Thank you good heavens. Praise the Almighty God! My daughter is finally engaged and I''m gonna have a grandchild and grandbabies!" And because I got shocked, my mouth fell open with what she said. ''Grandbabies''. "Ohh... thank you, Gabriel," she said when she calm down already. "For what, Mom?" She took both my hands. "For loving my daughter and for being there for her. I know sometimes she''s really stubborn, but she''s a fine woman, son. I hope you can extend your patience even further with it comes in her mouth. She''s a little bitchy and has a smart mouth most of the time." I chuckled when she said ''smart mouth'' because that''s exactly my first impression of her daughter. "Anyway, what''s your favorite food, dishes or cake vor? I''ll cook for you personally!" her eyes were filled with happiness and amusement when she got up. "You don''t need to do that, Mom, it''s okay." "No, I insist! Come on, tell your mother-inw, don''t be shy, you''re part of this family from now on." I smiled awkwardly and scratched the back of my neck. Madi is going to kill me if she knows about it. "Maybe we can just help Madi in the kitchen." I tried to suggest but she grabbed my hand. "Oh, my son, trust me, Madi doesn''t even need our help," she said with a chuckle and I frowned. "Remember, shees from a cooking school and she''s a professional cook. All of her restaurants have been started by her own hands, her dishes and even a single detail of it." she winked at me. I couldn''t help but smile with all the information I heard about Madi. She''s apletely innocent woman, but she knows how to move well in this huge world. I''ve never met someone like her before and I admit the respect I already had for her got deeper after the conversation with her mother and at the same time, my eagerness to be a better man for her has doubled. She deserves someone who can love her and protect her against this cruel world. But right now, I''m not that person who can do it because it was I who personally dragged her into this cruel yet fake reality. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Madi''s POV: I can feel his stares while we''re eating dinner earlier. It''s creepy and I don''t know what to feel. It started when he got back from I don''t know where, with my Mom. But now we were in the swimming pool, both of us sitting on the edge, while both of our feet were submerged in the water and still, I can feel his intense gaze on my face. I sighed and looked at him. "Is there something you wanted to ask? Something that my mother told you about me?" But he half smiled and shook his head. "Come on, Gab. I know my Mom wouldn''t drag you somewhere in the house if she has nothing to say and I know it''s about me." He just smiled again, so I looked back at the water but kept looking at him through his reflection. I really have no idea what he''s thinking at the moment or what my mother told him that has made him quiet until now. "You didn''t tell me Greg was your friend since college and you also took the same course." -''Oh Gosh!''- "Mom told you everything about me." I gulped and looked at him. "No, she told me half of the part and the other half wille from you if you''re willing to tell me about it. I sighed and bit my bottom lip. "Okay, so what do you want to ask?" "Are you really going to answer my question if I ask you?" I shrugged. "It depends." "It depends on what?" "It depends on your questions. If you''re going to ask me to drown myself here, of course, I won''t answer you. I won''t do that!" And then I heard hisugh. He shook his head and sshed me some water using his foot. "Ahhg!" I wiped my face with my hands and red at him, but he just continued tough. Then we both fell into silence... both were looking at the water. I don''t know what he was thinking but I was preparing myself for any questions he would possibly throw me. "Can you share a little part of your childhood with me?" I hitched my breath and gulped after hearing his first question. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. "If you''re not ready or if you''re not yet okay---" "No, it''s okay. I think I really need to move on from it." "Moved on? What do you mean?" he asked with the deepest frown on his face. I sighed again and bitterly smiled. Then I looked at him and started sharing the part of my childhood.N?velDrama.Org (C) content. Chapter 58: Sharing their past Chapter 58: Sharing their past "Well, how would I start? Uhm... I am an illegitimate child." His mouth fell open, I know he wanted to say something but he remained quiet so I continued my story. "I know my Mom already told you she''s not a Davis, not like me. It''s because I was born out of marriage. My father has his own family when he and my Mom got into a rtionship, and then I came. And do you remember when I told you about my siblings? They were just my half brother and a half- sister." I sighed as I remember them. I missed them so much. "I was ten when I found out the truth about my Mom and my father''s rtionship. I was so happy before then. I thought I had aplete family, with my Mom, my Dad and my siblings who were both older than me. But when I reached the age of ten, I started to ask some questions about our situation." "I thought we were family. And when you say ''family'' it means they all live on the same roof. But why do my Dad and my brother and sister have to go home every afternoon or every time theye to visit us. I''ve always asked Mom about it, but she just kept changing the topic when ites to that question." "And then I learned how to use the inte. Facebook, youtube, google, and I searched for my Dad''s name on Facebook. And then it explodes! I found out that we''re just his second family. That he''s married and my mother was just his second woman. That we''re just his second option." I felt warm tears forming around my eyes. All my life, we have never be first, we''re just a second family, I was just a child of the second wife, but until now, I was still a second option, my heart personally chose to be just a second choice. No... wrong! I wasn''t a second choice, because I wasn''t even listed from one of his choices, but yeah, I remember, I once became his first... ''his first support'' to his revenge n. At least I experienced bing first... "I was bullied after that in school, by our neighbours and everyone who knew our family story. They called my Mom a lot of names. A slut, a bitch, a gue in the society and whatever harsh words they wanted to call her and on me, I became their favorite pet everywhere. They were always shouting ''Hey, Madi! The illegitimate child, the second family, the second option!''.." "And because of that, I wanted to prove to myself that they were wrong! That I can be first! I tried to participate in sports and because of it, I gave my Mom a new name... ''The mother of the champion''. I became first! I became the champion! And even at school, I always make sure I remained on top." I wiped the warm liquids that now running down my face. He shifted himself closer to me and held both my hands. "But now you are the champion, Madi. No matter what they say, you will be our champion, you''re number one for us. And you''ve already proven to them that you''re not just a second option or a choice." He said looking into my eyes, but it just brought me more tears and deep pain to my heart. -''Yeah, I''ve already proved it to them, but not to you. Because whatever I do, I will be just a second choice for you. I can never be your first, neither now nor ever.''- my heart murmured silently while I was still in closed eyes. "But you know what, no matter what they did or told us, I never felt mad with my Mom. Because I know the only wrong thing that she did was fall in love. To fall in love with the wrong person and the wrong situation. But it''s different with my Dad. I haven''t talked since then. It really hurts me to know that the man you''re admiring was the same man who would also have broken your little heart and your little dream. When all I wanted in life is to have aplete family, but then I realized, it''s never going to happen." The moment I finished speaking, he pulled me into a hug and kissed me on top of my head. "Shhh... it''s in the past. If your father can''t be a man for you... then I will be." I pulled back and looked at him. He cupped both of my cheeks. "I can be your man, Madi." N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. I smiled bitterly. "You can''t, Gabriel. You can''t." I said looking into his eyes as I shook my head. "How will you be my man, if you''re still someone else''s man?" -''And how can you be mine if you''re heart still belongs to her? You can''t be my man and I can never be your woman.''- I took both his hands off my face and looked back into the water. He didn''t say anything, he just remained quiet. -''How can I unlove you, Gabriel?''- * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Gabriel''s POV: I can''t form any words after what she said. I just remained quiet and yed the water with my feet. She''s right. I can''t be her man. Well, how can I, if until now I can''t be a man to myself? I sighed and nced at her face. Her eyes were filled with sadness and pain and how I wished to ease them or take them away from her. Now I understand her more and I think I''m ready to share that sensitive topic in my life. "Remember how many times you''ve asked me, what''s the real reason I can''t move on with Stacey? And why I need to get revenge?" She looked at me with wide eyes and shock was written all over her face. I know that she has been asking me since the first time I offered her to marry me and I also know she wasn''t expecting this topic at that moment. "It''s not like I can''t move on, Madi. I was hurt and devastated when she left me. Remember I told you, I almost gave her everything? Well, I did. I gave up my dreams just for her. I was so stupidly in love with her during those times, so when she chose to go with Ray, I can''t ept it------" "Why are you telling this to me now?" she cut me off and I looked at her. "Was it because I shared my life story with you?" "No! I understand youpletely and I think I''ve been in awe of these things since you decided to help me." She sighed but she didn''t speak again, so I continued. "I couldn''t ept what she did, but do you know what really hurts the most?" I looked directly into her eyes. "That''s when I found out that she had our baby aborted." Her eyes widened like saucers when she turned to me. "Oh my God, Gabriel!" she said now facing me. I have tried to avoid that topic many times before, but for her, I''ll try to open up myself more. I smiled as I continued. "I didn''t know she was pregnant at that time. She''s asking for more of my attention, but it never came to my mind that she might be pregnant. She said she was on pills when we decided to live together and I just found out that she stopped it when she missed her period. And when she got pregnant, she didn''t tell me as she wasn''t ready. Then one day I found out from one of our friends that she was going out with Ray." "And when I came home, the maid gave me a bottle of pills that they found in the bathroom. ''Mifepristone''. It''s also called the abortion pill. I don''t know where she got it. My world suddenly turned upside down, Madi. I can be a father, but she took that opportunity away from me! She killed our child, Madi. That''s why I wanted to have her back and make her feel the pain she caused me. She acts as if nothing had happened, as if she hadn''t killed an innocent child." I balled my fists as the anger and grief from losing my child came back to me once again. She held my hands and I was shocked when I saw her crying. It made my heart more shattered when I saw her in tears. I wiped them and cupped her cheeks. "Shhh... you don''t need to waste your tears on this. I''m okay, well not really, but I know I will." I smiled and kissed her on the forehead before pulling her closer to me. "You can also ask me anything," I said looking her on the face. But she just smiled and shook her head. And my eyesnded on her lips. I missed the feeling of kissing her soft lips. And I almost go insane when she bit the corner of it. "Madi..." I warned her with a stiff breath. "What?" she asked me and she chewed it up more. I was at the edge of exploding. "Don''t do that?" I said my voice barely a whisper and my thumb released her lips from her teeth. But the stubborn teeth chew it again... and that''s it! I cupped her face and kissed her. I missed this. I missed her scent, her soft skin and her soft lips. She kissed me back and put her hands on the back of my neck. We stayed there for I don''t know how long.. kissing... until... "Aherm! I''m sorry to interrupt your romantic moment kids, but you can also continue that in your own room." We instantly moved away from each other when we heard her Mom''s voice. We looked at her and she has a mischievous smile on her face. "It''s cold here and you two can catch colds. You don''t want that to happen, do you? And I don''t want my first grandchild to be done by the pool!" "Mom!" Madi''s face flushed into a deep shade of red and she red at her mother. And seeing her difort, I hugged her and kissed her on the top of her head as I chuckled. Chapter 59: The bond between them Chapter 59: The bond between them Madi''s POV: After his confession about his past and the real thing that happened between him and Stacey, I finally understand his rage for his ex, but there''s one thing I couldn''t ask with him. If he still in love with her. Maybe I''m just scared to hear what he will say. When we got back to Chicago, he suddenly seemed to have be my tail. Every morning, he always knocks on my room and is already in his uniform, so I have no choice but to get up and get ready for work too as he goes straight to the kitchen, waiting for me toe down and eat breakfast together. And we alwayse to work together, which is why I have earned another awkward stares, res and smirks from his fan club in thepany, especially from their leader Jenny and her second-in- command Ailene. And when we were in the office, he would always send messages and call using his personal phone, instead of using the inte. And during the lunch break, he''s now the one waiting for me and not Sandy. He would appear from my office door before noon. Well, Sandy is still calling me but ''our'' boss always came before her. And because he''s the CEO, we can''t avoid those malicious stares from almost every employee inside the canteen. I remember once I asked him why he eats in the cafeteria when he is the boss and he can go to all the fancy restaurants outside the building, but he said it will only take extra time unlike sitting in the canteen We became close and open to each other, well except for my feelings for him. He started again calling me, love and since I have the dumbest heart, I just let him do it again. I realized how simple a person he is. You can take and drag him to the cafeteria, you can eat some street food near the local market. Yes, he''s cold, arrogant and a jerk most of the time, but what many others don''t know about him is that.. he has a big heart for children. And about his revenge n, we avoided talking about it. Well for me, it''s pretty good not to talk about it anymore or better stop from doing it, but since I know how it hurt him to lose his baby, I just didn''t open a topic regarding that matter. He has be more of my friend and sometimes acts more like my boyfriend, especially in the office. He won''t let me eat with Troy even though I have Sandy next to me. He''s like a jealous and possessive boyfriend especially when Greges and visit me in the office. And one time we had a board meeting and he identally called me love in front of the board members and two of thepany''s biggest investors. And to our surprise, Sandy became our guardian angel at that time. FLASHBACK... I was in his office and reminding him of the board meeting at two in the afternoon because there were only ten minutes left for the meeting. "Love, have you given the documents we need to Ms Agur?" he asked me but his eyes were still on hisputer screen. "Yup. She''s already in the meeting room." I answered while waiting for him to get up. "Are you ready?" "Yeah, I''m just waiting for you," I said raising an eyebrow. He looked at me and smiled. "Okay. Let''s go," he said getting up and walking towards the door. I followed him out, but because I remember leaving my phone on my desk, I told him that I would just follow him in the meeting room. I took my phone along with some documents needed for the meeting. The moment I walked into the room, I found him standing in front and there''s a whiteboard behind him. Sandy was checking the reports on herptop for the PowerPoint presentation. And maybe because he used to call me love every time and everywhere, in the car, in the cafeteria by a whisper, in front of Sandy, at home, in his and my office, he forgot that we''re not alone and we were in the meeting room. "Love, can you please pass the folders to the members? Thank you." All eyes turned to him and on then me and then on him again. My breath stuck in my lungs and I don''t really know how to react to that. He''s already in hispel, so his voice can be heard even in the furthest corner of the meeting room. And there''s one thing that shocked everyone. He said ''Thank you'', which is now a new word to you find in his vocabry. "Love! You looked so LOVEly today, Ms Davis, right, gentlemen?" And suddenly all eyes have turned to Sandy when she spoke out loud. "You looked so beautiful, LOVEly and blooming Ms Davis! Sir, what can you say?" then she asked Gabriel, but there''s a board member who answered her. "I agree with you, Ms Agur. Ms Davis here is getting more beautiful and lovely each day." I blushed when almost everyone gave theirments. And then we heard Sandy sing... "Love.. love.. hase my way, everything is gonna be okay... And it will always be a happy day because love hase my way..." She even mixed it with some hand gestures and winked at me. All the members in the room pped their hands after her mini-performance. And even though I was still in my shocked state, I also pped my hands to make her act normal and natural. "Okay, let''s start this meeting. Good afternoon,dies and gentlemen." Gabriel said in his serious and cold voice after all the chaos that he himself had created. END OF FLASHBACK... He evenes with me every time I visit my restaurant. For Noelle, she knows our situation so she hasn''t asked questions about why he''s with me. But George and Arielle, I just told them..''we''re dating''.. so things don''t getplicated. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org. We eat dinner together every night, eat breakfast together, go to work and go home together even after work. Sometimes, we''re having our lunch and dinner in restaurants. He even took me to the shopping mall and bought all the dress he thought would fit me. Of course, Iined, but he still insisted on buying all those stuff for me. We even watched movies in cinemas. And there, I found out that he''s a huge fan of brutal horror movies and psychological thrillers. Which are my most hated movies, it gives me nightmares at night and it can drive me insane after watching those movies. But since I''m the Queen, I''m always dragging him into drama and romanticedy movies, which he also enjoys at the end. It''s been almost a month since we started opening up to each other and it''s been over two months since we got married. We have be morefortable with each other, now we can share jokes and sometimes personal jokes but it has be part of our daily bonding. But as they always say.. ''sometimes you need to know your ce in someone''s life, because you might get hurt if you expect too much..'' In all those happy days, memorable and carefree moments that we shared together, they were all the happiest memories I had with him.. that I never know... will also be the most painful memories I will carry and will have in the future. Because sometimes, happy memories hurt the most. We''re having lunch at home, Saturday noon, when he received a call from Stacey. I admit I was surprised by the call, but I just remained quiet. It''s been more than a month since I heard her name from Gabriel. He excused himself for a while, but he answered the call in front of me. They didn''t talk that much. He ended it immediately with a scowl on his face. "Stacey wants to talk to me." He said and brought the ss of water into his mouth. "W-What did she say?" I asked him as I continued to slice the steak on my te. "She said she wants to talk to me and it''s important." "Hmm..." I said nodding. I couldn''t exin the sudden feeling of unease that had crept into me. He no longer touched his food, but I continued mine to show him I wasn''t affected by the call. I don''t know, but there''s something inside me telling me that it was something I wouldn''t want to know until the end. Chapter 60: The start of the real pain Chapter 60: The start of the real pain When he got a call from Stacey earlier, he told me he would talk to her and ask her what was the important thing that she couldn''t wait until the next day. When he left, I started thinking about all the possible things she wanted to discuss with him. It also crossed my mind that maybe she would ask for his forgiveness and start a new life away from him or maybe start a new life together with him... again. And since I don''t know what Gabriel''s true feelings are for her, my head hurts thinking what they might do. I waited for him until elevenst night, but he didn''te home. I tried to call him until this morning but he didn''t pick up my call. And exactly at nine this morning, he finally came home. But something has changed in him. His eyes have be colder than usual or even colder than the first day I met him. He looked more serious and had a deep frown on his forehead. And if you looked closer, there were deep bags around his eyes. "Gab." I tried to greet him in a cheerful voice, but he just ignored me. He walked past me without even giving me a single nce. I also noticed the stain on his shirt and the smell of alcohol emanating from him. -''What happened to him?''- I frowned and followed him into his mini-bar inside the house. "Gabriel." "Leave me alone, Madi. Not now." I gasped when I heard him called me ''Madi'' again. His voice held seriousness and irritation. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. "But I just want to know---" "Please, Madielyn! Not now! Just please leave me alone!" My hand automatically lifted to my chest as I gulped at a sudden ache that crept inside me. I just wanted to know if he already had breakfast this morning before he drinking. I couldn''t but help wonder what happened to their talk yesterday? Was it that bad.. why did hee home in that state? Why did it seem like the whole world was on his shoulders? He opened the bottle of wine clenching his jaws. I gulped and took a deep before opening my mouth again. "If you just need someone to talk to, I''m just in my room," I said turning my way back into the living room. But I was just taking the third step when he called me. "Madi." I sighed and looked around him. "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to raise my voice at you," he said but still in a foul mood. I just smiled and shook my head. "No, it''s okay. I''ll just go to my room." And I didn''t wait for his response, I walked away and headed upstairs. I blinked away the tears that had formed around my eyes. "It''s okay, Madi. Maybe he just has some problems." I told myself when I entered my room. It''s been a long time since I saw him in his old self. I''m not used to the old Gabriel anymore. By now I''m used to the sweet, caring and cheerful Gabriel that I''m with in these past months. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I didn''t notice I fell asleep just by thinking about what happened to Gabrielst night. I got up and looked at the clock on the bedside table, it''s already two in the afternoon and I have skipped lunch. "Did I sleep for three hours?" I asked myself I stood up. I decided to go down and look for Gabriel but I couldn''t see him around the house. "Elsa, have you seen Gab around?" I asked our maid when I reached the kitchen. "I think he''s still in his room, Ma''am Madi," she answered smiling. "Oh, yeah. I - I forgot to check his room. Thank you." "You''re wee, Maam." I smiled at her. -''Yeah.. how did I forget to check him in his room? Oh.. stupid of me.''- But I think I don''t have to go upstairs to see the person I was looking for as he now walking down the stairs and has even changed into a white shirt and cotton shorts. I gulped when he caught me looking at him, but I smiled so it will look normal. "Hi," I said, with a cheerful voice. He just looked at me seriously. But I noticed something in his eyes... sadness? What''s that for? There''s something really wrong with him. He made his way to the U-shaped sofa and followed him but remained standing. I waited for him to speak, but he has been sitting there for more than a minute and I still can''t hear a word from him. "Gab, are you okay---" "She''s pregnant." Something cold poured all over my body just by hearing those words. "W-Who''s pregnant?" I still asked even though I inside me, I already knew who that person was that he''s referring to. "Stacey. She''s pregnant," he said through gritted teeth. The pain instantly squeezed around my heart and I gulped as almost lost my bnce and fall from where I stood. I just grabbed the backrest of the couch to support my weight. -''Did I hear him correctly? This can''t be true!-'' The pain that crept into my heart was unbearable but I managed to stay calm. "Wow! Congrattions!" I said faking my excitement as I looked at him with an all-out smile. And because I''m the best actress, I blinked back the tears and held my breath. I went up to him and sat down across his seat. "That''s great news, Gab! You''re now going to be a father again!" But he didn''t say anything. He just remained quiet. "What are you thinking about? You should be celebrating right now. How far is she?" I asked in the jolliest tone I could have. "Two months." "T-Tw...Two months." I gulped. "Oh, I see, so you only have seven months to wait and tada! You''ll have a new baby!" I gulped the lump inside my throat. So, it''s true. He was with her in those missing days and nights. He was sleeping with her. "I doubt it, Madi." he formed his fists into a hardball. "What do you mean?" "I doubt if it''s really mine." "But why?" "Because it could be Ray''s!" I couldn''t find my words after that. I wanted to tell him that... -''Now you''re doubting if it''s yours? So, now you''re admitting that you actually slept with her? Because if not, you already knew the answer in the first ce that it''s not yours. But no, you''re doubting, that means you had sex with her that''s why you''re not sure if it''s yours.''- We both remained. I have so many questions to ask, but I don''t know how to start. I have so many things to say, but I''m not sure if it''s still needed right at that moment. I have so many things to confirm, but do I still have to open my mouth? I thought these past few weeks, everything is going to be fine between us. But that was just a thought... a dream... an illusion because fate just wanted me to savour a little bit of heaven and then now she''s ying with my heart again. "Madi," I heard him calling me and felt his hand on my knee. I looked at him and smiled, but before I could open my mouth, my cellphone vibrated inside my shorts pocket. I checked to see it''s Noelle calling. I waved my phone in front of him and he nodded. I excused myself for a while to answer the call. "Noelle..." I gulped as it became a hoarse voice for trying not to burst down in tears. "Madi? What happened to your voice? Are you crying?" I can imagine her frown while asking me those questions. Well, not yet, but I know anytime I will. "No. What made you think that I''m crying" I chuckled. "Your voice sounded rough and broken, I thought you were crying." "No, I''m not. Maybe because I have a sore throat." "Hmm... okay. Anyway, Madi, can you drop by here? You have to check some documents before passing them to our suppliers." "Yeah, sure." "You have to sign it now." "Oh, as in now?" "Yes, princess Madi." I smiled and said yes. Maybe I need some distraction for a moment. After ending the call, I went back to Gabriel. "It''s Noelle. She informed me that I need to sign some documents. He stood up immediately. "Okay, I''ll go with you." "No!" my voice came a little bit loud. "I - I mean, you don''t have to. I can go visit the outlet by myself." "Are you sure?" he tried to get closer to me, but I stepped back and acted as if I was going upstairs. "Yeah! We''re going to have some girly moments. You know, I missed them, I missed our bonding. "Okay." "I''ll go change my clothes." I didn''t wait for him to respond, I half ran and half walked towards the stairs and to my room. I don''t know how many times I took a deep breath and gulped the lump inside my throat just to make sure the tears won''t fall. I don''t want him to see that I''m crying, because I''m sure he would ask me why? And what would I tell him? That I''m crying because I''m feel hurt? And what if he asks me ''why do you feel hurt? What would I answer him? That I feel hurt because I love him and I love him that''s why I feel hurt? Chapter 61: Broken-hearted me Chapter 61: Broken-hearted me I found him still sitting in the living room. I thought I would no longer see him there. He was in a daze... sitting while looking nkly at the coffee table. And he didn''t even notice that I was heading for the door. I sighed as I was about to open the door but he hadn''t even moved a bit. Shaking my head, I went back to him. "Gabriel," I said patting him on the shoulder. He looked up a little surprised when he realized I was standing in front of him. "Love.." I held my breath after hearing that word. "I have to go." He stood up quickly and looked at me. "Are you sure you don''t want me toe with you?" "Yeah, don''t worry about me. I''m old enough to be careless." He looked at me directly in the eye. "We are fine, are we?" I chuckled at him. -''Fucking shit! I''m hurting! I am in pain! Do you think I''m fine?''- "Of course! What made you think we''re not okay?" He shook his head. "Nothing. Just take care." he pulled me into a tight hug, but I didn''t hug him back. I just patted his shoulder and immediately pulled back. His scent and that sweet gesture make me want to cry and run away from him. "Call me if you need someone to drive you home." I nodded. "I have to go," I said and walked towards the door, not bothering to look back at him. I opened the door with a loud sigh. But the moment I took the first step out, tears started to flow down my cheeks. I covered my mouth to prevent the sobs that wanted to escape my throat and ran towards the garage. The guards opened the driveway when they noticed my car, and when I was already outside the gate, I screamed. I screamed until my throat hurts. I wanted to ignore the pain and tried to pretend that feeling didn''t exist, but I couldn''t. Because the more I tried to be okay, the more I felt I was about to break down. Tears were blurring my visions, but I kept driving. Sobs after sobs were escaping my throat. It hurts... It really hurts... I don''t know how to stop it. I don''t even know how to control it. -''I thought we were fine! I thought he had already stopped chasing her, but fucking shit! I was wrong!''- I turned on the radio to distract myself and focused on my driving, but even the DJ wanted to hurt me more... ***Looking back I could have yed it differently.. learned about the man before I fell... but it took time to understand the man, now at least I know, I know him well... Wasn''t it good.. wasn''t it fine.. isn''t it madness, he can''t be mine. But in the end, he needs a little bit more than me, he needs his fantasies and freedom... I know him so well... No one in your life is with you constantly, no one ispletely on your side... And though I''d move my world to be with him, still the gap between us is too wide..*** I mmed my hands on the steering wheel. "I hate you! I already know that! Why do you have to shout it out?"N?velDrama.Org (C) content. I yelled at the singer who continued her song on the radio. But she''s right! I would move my world to be with him, but still, the gap between us is too wide! He can''t be mine! And because I felt tortured with the song, I changed the station, and my tears broke out more with the next song. Is there any song on this radio except these broken-hearted songs? ***Every now and then I cry.. every night, you keep stayin'' on my mind... All my friends say I''ll survive, it just takes time... But I don''t think time is gonna heal this broken heart... no I don''t see how it can if it''s broken all apart... A million miracles could never stop the pain, or put all the pieces together again... No, I don''t think time is gonna heal this broken heart... No, I don''t see how it can while we are still apart... And when you hear this song, I hope that you will see.. the time won''t heal the "Broken-Hearted Me"...*** "Broken-hearted me? What the heck--- are you sure I am broken? Am I really broken?" Iughed at myself even though I felt a million knives were stabbing my heart at that moment. "Why do I have to feel this way? Why do I have to be in pain? And why is loving him killing me inside?" I pulled the car to the parking lot of my restaurant. I shook my head and dropped it onto the steering wheel. I need topose myself because I know Noelle would definitely notice my swollen eyes. I took a deep breath and tried to calm my heavy breathing. -''I can do it! You can do it, Madi!-'' Taking my bag, I opened the door and started walking towards the entrance. I immediately walked my way to the back office as I didn''t want to confuse my employees. I know they would ask me when they all see me with red eyes and nose. When I opened the door, I saw Noelle talking to our head waiter, Tony. They both stood up and Tony greeted me. I just nodded and smiled at him when he excused himself to go out. And there I was left alone with Noelle that has a deep frown on her forehead. "What happened, Madi? Are you okay?" she asked, concerns wereced in her voice. "Yup," I simply answered and opened the door to the mini-kitchen. I took the pitcher of cold water from the fridge because I believe that was all I need at that moment. "You said you weren''t crying when I called you!" She scolded me from behind. I didn''t know she was following me. "I didn''t." "Then what happened to your eyes and your nose? You cried! And don''t give me a fucking excuse for sniffing all the ck peppers in your house before getting here! I won''t buy it, Madielyn!" I chuckled at her. That was my old excuse back in college. I tried to go back to the office and walked past her but I felt her hand in my arm. "Madi, is there anything you wanted to share?" I just shook my head and gave her a half-hearted smile. "Madielyn..." "I''m okay, Noelle-----" "No! You''re not okay!" I gasped when she snapped at me. "Come here!" she pulled me back to the office and pushed me to sit on the couch. She also sat next to me. "Now, let''s talk about it. Let''s talk about what happened!" "I told you, I''m okay------" "Fucking shit, if you''re okay!" she snapped at me again. I looked at her and her eyes soften immediately. "Tell me the truth, Madi. What happened?" I sighed and looked at my hands. "Well.. she''s pregnant." She frowned. "Who''s pregnant?" "Stacey." "Stacey? Wait... Stacey as in... Gabriel''s ex-girlfriend?" I nodded. "And so? What if she''s pregnant--" she paused as her eyes widened. "---don''t tell me she''s pregnant with--- she''s pregnant with Gabriel?" I nodded again smiling at her. "Ohh... are you okay?" she asked and then took my hands. "Of course, I am! Why wouldn''t I be okay?" Iughed at her. "Madi.." "I''m okay, Noelle! See--- I''mughing! If I''m not okay, I wouldn''t be able tough right now, instead, I''m crying!" But secondster, I just found myselfughing...ughing uncontrobly..ughing at the pain that slowly eating me inside. Iughed so hard until stupid tears started flowing down my cheeks... until I can''t stop it anymore. Iughed... then after a moment... I also found myself crying in the middle. Then theugh died.. it was reced by sobs... loud sobs that almost ripping my throat. "Ohh... Madi.." I saw her wipe her tears as she looked at me. I put my hands to my face and let out the cries that I had been holding back for so long. My shoulders shook and I felt her arms around me. "It h-hurts N-Noelle. It hurts." I said between my sobs. "That''s the thing about pain, Madi. It demands to be felt." "I - I thought we were okay! I - I thought he... he feels the same way! He showed me care, he showed the feelings that I - I longed to feel. I love him but... it hurts!" "What happened? I thought you said you two were doing fine these past few weeks?" she rubbed my back. "Yeah, that''s what I thought." I nodded "So how did he get Stacey pregnant?" I broke away from her embrace and took some tissue from the tissue box on the coffee table. "She''s two months pregnant. That''s when the time Gabriel didn''te home and I didn''t know where he slept at night. I thought he had already dropped off his n to take revenge on her. I thought he had already let me get into his world, but now I realized how stupid I was to assume those things." And because I was busy letting out my thoughts, I didn''t notice that she was on her phone and sending a message to someone. "I never knew I could feel so much pain, yet be so in love with the person causing it." "Madi, you care so much for him, that''s why you''re hurting. And when you care for someone more than they deserve, you get hurt more than you deserve." I looked at her with tears and small sobs on my lips. "Then why are you staying?" She asked after a while. "It''s because I love him." I shrugged. "Argh! You are the most stupid and dumbest person I have ever met, Madi!" A bitterugh suddenly escaped my lips as I tried to wipe my stupid tears. "Do you think I don''t know that?" "Then why don''t you let go? Why don''t you leave while you''re still in love, while you can still feel the pain, and while you''re still able to handle yourself? Don''t wait until your heart goes numb! If you know you are in so much pain, then why don''t you open your eyes? Gabriel is Gabriel, Madi! He won''t change himself just for you! Because if he would, I''m sure he already did it a long time ago, for himself and not for anybody else!" I didn''t say anything, I just brushed my hair with my fingers and wiped the now dry tears from my cheeks. And that was when the door opened and Sandy''s worried face came into our view. "Oh, my Madi," she ran towards our direction and hugged me tightly. And my tears started to flow again. "How did you know I''m here?" I asked her when she pulled back. "Noelle sent me a message and I was right near this ce when I received her message. Anyway, what are your ns now? Don''t tell me you are still going to be their third wheel?" I chuckled. "I am not their third wheel!" "And what--- Stacey is the third wheel between you two? Come on, Madi!" I sighed, wiping the new set of tears. Sandy is right. I am actually the third wheel between them. Because he only married me just for her. I can''t even use him of cheating even when we''re married, because she was the real reason why we''re pretending as a couple. Chapter 62: The claws of the truth Chapter 62: The ws of the truth I went home that night carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders. I''ve never felt so numb in my entire life not even when I found out that my father has his first family and that we''re just his second, or when I learned that we don''t have the same mother with my siblings, or even when I realized that I can''t have a whole family that I dreamed of like every other child would like to have. The pain I felt when he threw the bomb in front of me was iparable to what I felt when I was still young. When I was bullied and everyone treated me like trash. Because with what he said, it felt like poison to my blood. It was killing me slowly but surely. It made me think of my worth that no matter what I try to do, I can never be enough. I can''t have him and I will never be able to call him mine. He will never be mine. My mind was screaming and my heart was wailing inside my rib cage and I hate it when my mind was telling me to stop loving him, but my stubborn heart couldn''t let go of those stupid feelings. I couldn''t breathe and couldn''t think straight in those past few days. I was like the girl who I was just watching in a drama series who seemed to be happy on the outside, telling jokes, smiling, having fun but what everybody didn''t know, I was dying on the inside. They didn''t realize that I was hurt and tired at the same time. Tired of not being good enough, and tired of being just the second choice. But honestly, I don''t want them to know about my pain. I don''t want them to think I''m weak, and an attention-seeker, so I''m keeping it all inside. ying the role of being the best actress and acting like everything''s okay and perfect, especially in front of him, but cries every night asking the stars and the whole universe how to stop and kill the pain I have inside. It''s been a week since he broke the shocking news to me and since then I''ve been trying to distance myself from him just to breathe. I don''t know if I''ll stay with him and help him with his n or stay away like what my friends always tell me. There were lots of happenings in these past seven days and one of them was when Noelle and Sandy tried to cheer me up, so they asked me toe with them to the mall and have some girly moments. But to my one of a shity day, I encountered the queen of the bitch inside of one of the boutiques. Stacey. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ shback... "Ohh... hi, Madi." I turned to see who greeted me and my eyebrow automatically knew its way up. "Are you shopping?" she asked, smirking. I sneered. "Nope, I''m honestly trying to find some cure and ailment for someone''s itchiness... which I have heard now needs to be scratched." "Oh, Madi... Madi... Madi.. tsk.tsk.tsk." she said shaking her head. "Don''t you think I don''t know the truth?" I scrunched my eyebrows. What truth is she talking about? "That Gabriel married you just to make me jealous and get me back." Iughed at her, even though deep inside, she had pressed my already injured heart. "And who told you that bullshit idea?" "It''s not really important. What important is that I already knew the truth, so you can stay away now with my Gabi." I suddenly felt my temper rising to my head. "And who are you to tell me that bullshit idea? I am the wife! I am the legal wife, so just keep your nonsense thoughts in your shity mouth! And whoever told you that lies, for sure he or she has enormous envy with us for doing such a thing!" "Lies? Are you sure that''s just lies? Because if it''s true, then why did Gabriel always following me everywhere I went? He kept calling me and asking me if I''m okay like in the old days? And why did he choose to stay with me than to be with you almost every night?" I gulped, forming my fists. I wanted to punch her shity face... if she''s not just pregnant. "And may I add.. why aren''t you got pregnant, if you''re saying you''re the real wife?" I gasped with herst question. "Why did Gabriel choose to give me his time? And oh, look at me! Yes, I''m not the wife, but I''m the pregnant one." she proudly stated before giving me her demonicugh. "Oh, really, you''re pregnant? Who can tell if that''s Gabriel''s child or not?" "What are you talking about?" herugh died as she started to re at me. -''Now it''s my turn tough at you... bitch!''- "Like I said.. who knows if that''s Gabriel''s baby? I mean, knowing you the shity-bitch who opened her legs to everyone. What are you a canteen or a restaurant which is always open to those who want to eat? To eat something fishy between your legs?" "How dare you------" she tried to p me like in our first encounter in the restroom of their friends'' event, but I caught her hand before itnded on my face. "I told you, don''t you ever put your filthy hand on my face. It''s eww, and I have no alcohol here to clean and kill your bacteria!" She took her hand out of my grasp. "And never give me an excuse that you''re pregnant not to p your face and push you hard on the floor because I don''t ''fucking care! Stay away from my husband!" And then I walked towards the entrance of the boutique, but then I remembered one thing. I turned around and went back to where she was. "I''ll say it for thest time--- stay away from my husband! Back off unless you want your next period to come out of your nose! Oops, you''re pregnant... I forgot! Let''s rephrase my sentence... ''Back off unless you want your baby toe out of your nose instead of your pussy!" She gasped with myst words, but I left her in that state and walked out of the boutique. End of shback... ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ And earlier, I got a call from Greg. At first, I was reluctant to answer it because knowing Greg, he''ll just be like Sandy and Noelle when he knows about what happened. But in the end, I decided to answer to take his call. He said he wanted us to meet, have a casual talk. Eat somewhere and then go home, and I agreed. I drove to the coffee shop he said and since Gabriel was nowhere to be found inside the house, I decided to leave a message outside my bedroom door. I didn''t bother to call or send him a message because I don''t want him to know where I am going. I don''t want him to reply and ask me who I''m going to meet and what time I''m going home. I saw Greg sitting at the side of the coffee shop next to the ss panel. I smiled and walked over to him. "Greg," He immediately got up when he noticed me in front of him. "Madi," he smiled and pulled me into a tight hug. He also kissed my forehead which he has always done since college. "Sit down," he said pulling the chair for me. "Thank you," "What do you want to eat?" he asked once he''s already seated. "No, thanks, but I''m full." "Nope! You will eat unless you want to order all the cakes that they sell and make you pay for them all, including this one." I gasped at what he said and he even pointed the piece of cake in front of him. "I hate you, Greg Anderson!" I said, giggling. "So, you''d better pick a good choice. Will you eat or pay for all of their pastries?" he raised his eyebrow. "Why don''t you just let me buy the whole store?" "Oh, that''s a good idea! Wait, I''m gonna talk to the owner," he said getting up and I red at him. "Greg!" "Why? I know you can buy the whole store!" he returned to his seat andughed at me "Fine! I''m going to order now! Happy?" I yfully narrowed my eyes on him. "Very happy! That''s my girl!" I rolled my eyes when he winked at me. When the waiter put my orders in front of me, I almost drool at the smell of chocte oreo cake. "Hmm.." I closed my eyes when my nose hit the smell of the delicious aroma of my choctette and the cake in front of me. I heard him chuckle from across the table. "No... I''m still full." I red at him when he mimicked my words earlier. But I just huffed and ignored him. I was in the middle savoring my oreo cake when he opened his mouth again. "How are you, Madi?" My mouth stopped munching the cake as I looked at him. "I''m fine," I simply answered and took a sip of mytte. "I can see it. I can see it clearly," he said seriously as he leaned back in his seat. "Greg..." "Don''t you think I don''t know the truth, Madi?" "Greg... I - I ---" "Did he tell you the truth about Stacey?" I sighed. I knew this would happen once I agreed to meet him. And I don''t even have to ask him where he got the news. Text content ? N?velDrama.Org. "Yes," I looked down and continued to eat. It''s my favorite vor so I''m not going to stop eating just because I''m upset at hearing the bitch''s name. "So how did you ept the truth--- just like that?" "Can I eat this first? Or do you want to pay for all the cakes they sell here? It''s not a problem with me going home with a lot of cakes in my car." And that worked. He stopped talking but startedughing. "Then go eat faster," he said shaking his head. I smiled but it didn''t reach my ears. When I finished, he repeated his question looking me directly in the eye. "How did you ept the truth when he told you about Stacey''s condition?" I shrugged. "Hmm... the way you think I supposed to ept it. Be cool and rx." "Madi?" "Greg, I''m not in a position to question him about his n. I was just helping him--- I am just helping him and I don''t have the right to ask him, because I''m just his fake wife." I took the ss oftte and tried to swallow the lump in my throat. "Madi, has anyone told you that you''re the most terrible actress of the century?" "Ouch!" I faked my hurt expression outside, but actually, it hit me inside. "You can lie to them, but not to me. Your eyes tell exactly the pain you are going through." I bit my bottom lip, avoiding his gaze. "Madi, why don''t you let go?" I looked at him with tears forming around my eyes. I hate this topic and the question as well. ''why don''t you let go?'' ''why don''t you leave him?'' "It''s not easy, Greg." "Even when you are in pain? Even he''s now being unfair and causing you so much pain? Why don''t you get out of your marriage, Madi? Think of yourself first." "I - I don''t know how, Greg." He took my hand on top of the table and put a white handkerchief over it. I smiled bitterly. "You know what, it hurts to see that the one you really love, loves someone else. I experienced it eight years ago... until now." "Greg...." I held his hand as tears blurring my vision. I know what he''s talking about. "But you know what hurts the most? It''s when you found out you were just their bridge to cross over to their loved ones." A loud sob escaped from my throat. The pain of the truth is unbearable. Its ws were digging into my heart... ripping and tearing it apart. I wish I could turn the table and turn back the time. I wish I could teach my heart to love this man in front of me who is always there for me, even he knows that I am crying for another man and not for him. Chapter 63: The two kinds of love Chapter 63: The two kinds of love "Madi, it''s okay to cry for him, forgive him. But do not allow yourself to be forever fooled with him. If he didn''t know how to love you the first time, he won''t know how to do it the next time. You deserve to be with someone who looks at you every single day like he had won the lottery, and has the world in front of him." he said getting up and wrapped me in his arms. I cried into his shoulders as he rubbed my hair. "Never force yourself to read a book that you do not enjoy. There are so many good books in the world that it''s foolish to waste your time reading on one that doesn''t give you pleasure." I wiped my tears and pulled back from his hug. "Where did you get that?" I asked bringing his handkerchief to my nose. "Where did I get what?" he asked me confused. "Your quotes. Shakespeare or anonymous?" I bit my lip to hide my smile. "Huh! Is that all you can say after my efforts?" I chuckled when he pouted. "At least I can make youugh," he said seriously and I smiled at him. "Thank you, Greg." "When are you going to say ''I love you, Greg'' instead of ''Thank you, Greg?" And my smile disappeared as I looked at his serious face. "Just kidding!" He chuckled but I narrowed my eyes on him. "There is someone who also wants to talk to you." he pointed his mouth behind me and I saw Nancy''s unsmiling face. She hugged me and sat in the empty chair next to me. "Sissy, I''m sorry," she said taking both my hands. "Why are you saying sorry?" Greg red at her. "Never apologize for the things you''re not involved in! It''s your brother''s mistakes, not yours!" "I know and I''m not happy with it!" she wiped the now dry tears on my face. "How are you, Sissy?" The same question as to her cousin, but before I could open my mouth, Greg turned to me. "Madi, I have to go. I just have some important things to do," he said kissing me on the forehead. "I''ll just call youter. And Nancy.. take care of her." "I know! Don''t worry, I''ll take care of her for you. I know how much you love, Madi.. hmmp!" Greg stopped in his tracks after hearing Nancy''s words and just scratched the back of his neck as he shook his head before heading towards the exit. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Gabriel''s POV: "Sir Gabriel, your cousin is here." I turned around to see Elsa at the door frame. I headed immediately to the gym when I read Madi''s note in front of her door. And it''s been two hours since I started hitting the punching bag in front of me. I tried to call her phone, but she''s not answering. "Who''s cousin?" "Sir Greg Anderson," I sighed, closing my eyes. Maybe he found out what happened. "Send him in," "Yes, Sir." When she disappeared, I hit the poor punching bag again. -''I''m sorry, my friend!''- I murmured before pouring out all my frustrations into the punching bag. It wasn''t part of my n! I never nned to get Stacey pregnant again! "Why don''t you hit yourself instead of hitting that poor punching bag, huh?" I nced at the door and the serious face of my cousin came into my view, but I ignored him and continued what I was doing. He walked in front of me with his hands in his pockets. "I''m going to take Madi, Gabriel!" The moment I heard those wordse out of his mouth, I saw the shades of red in front of me. I grabbed him by the cor and pushed him against the nearest wall. "What the hell are you talking about you''re taking her?" I yelled in his face. "She''s not a puppy that you can just take or pick up anytime you want! Which part of the truth do you not understand? She is my wife and I won''t let you take her away from me!" But to my surprise, he took both of my hands and pushed me hard that I almost trip if I wasn''t able to bnce my weight. "Then fuck you and your truth! You''re right, she''s not a fucking dog but she''s not also a fucking idiot to stand by your side and help you while you fuck your slut of an ex!" He shouted at me with all the veins showing on his neck. "Don''t you know how unfair you are with this marriage, Gabriel? She''s your wife but you got your ex pregnant?" "You don''t know what really happened, Greg!" "Really? Which part of it do you think I don''t know? That you kept banging your ex while Madi was waiting for you at home? That you got her pregnant while you made a fool of your wife in front of her? That you''re fucking---" "I didn''t bang her! I didn''t fuck her! I didn''t even touch her!" "Then what happened?" he chuckled, sarcastically. "Your seeds automatically entered her pussy? Come on, Gabriel! I''m not stupid, so don''t make me! I''m gonna take Madi with me, whether you like it or ---" I didn''t let him finish his sentence. I punched him squarely in the face, but when he recovered, he gave me back the punch I threw at him. I tasted my own blood when he cornered me and pushed me onto the pec deck machine as his hand wrapped around my neck. "Madi is a human, Gabriel! She can feel the pain, she can feel the pain of your actions! Yes, she''s just your fake wife, but she also has the right to be embarrassed in front of everyone! She''s carrying your He''s choking me and I almost gasping for air. "That''s not true!" I said when I was finally able to push him. My chest was moving up and down. "I appreciate all her efforts, Greg!" "Then how did Stacey get pregnant?" "I don''t know! I didn''t even touch her!" I screamed and running my hands over my face in a frustrated manner. "I just woke up one morning with her on the bed, naked!" I sat down on the floor. "I went to the bar on the night of our wedding, and after drinking four sses of whiskey... I don''t what happened next. I just woke up one morning with her on the bed!" I massaged my throbbing temples. "I didn''t mean to hurt Madi, I just don''t know how to exin to her!" "You mean to say, you got your drink spiked in the club?" "That''s what I''ve been doing these past few days. I''ve hired people to investigate what happened! And I''m not even sure if the baby was mine!" We both fell silent. "Then request for a paternity test to know the truth if the child is yours!" he said after a moment of silence. "Is it possible? She''s pregnant!" "Yes, prenatal paternity test. It can be done within seven weeks of pregnancy. How far is she?" he asked me in a voice a bit lower than earlier. "Eight weeks." "Then do a prenatal paternity test! Don''t make the same mistakes, Gabriel! We called ''ex'' as an ''ex'' because it''s an example of what you shouldn''t have again in the future!" I didn''t say anything, I remained quiet. "Maybe you can now answer my questions, Gabriel." I gazed up at him only to see him wearing the most serious expression I''ve ever seen in him. "Do you still love Stacey?" That question had haunted me for more than a year. Do I still love her? "No. I don''t love her anymore. I was just blinded by what she did, but I am no longer in love with her." I told him the truth without blinking. I don''t love her anymore And I don''t know if I really loved her in the first ce. "What about Madi? Are you in love with her, or are you just still using her for your revenge? Well, you''ve already got what you wanted, you got your ex back! So now you can let Madi go." "No! I can''t let her go!" "Why? Why Gabriel? Why can''t you let her go----" "Because I love her!" N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. I yelled and stood in front of him. I saw how the look of surprise was written on his face before he smirked at me. "Then, may the best man win, cousin. Because to tell you honestly, I love her. I''ve loved Madi since our first year in college. And because I love her, I''ve stayed on her side in every way possible. I''ve supported her in all her decisions and I''ve always made herugh and happy whenever she''s with me. I''ve waited for her for eight years until now, because that''s what you call love, Gabriel. Willing to sacrifice and wait for your loved ones. And if I have to wait for her in another eight years, I won''t hesitate to do it again for her!" I was left speechless after he finished those lines... until he disappeared from my sight. I already knew his feelings for her, but I didn''t imagine iting from him personally. I can also do what he did for her, I can wait for Madi. But what I can''t is to be with her without breaking her heart. I don''t deserve her but I can''t let her go. Call me selfish but I love her, that''s the truth. I was just confused with how I feel about her at first, but now I know and I''ve finally realized. I love Madi, I love my wife. Chapter 64: The truth is in front of her Chapter 64: The truth is in front of her I sighed for I guess a hundred times since I parked my car in the parking lot of an OBGyne clinic. Why am I here--- it''s because George called me earlier, wanted me to sign some documents at the clinic because she put me as her employer. But the moment I closed the car door, I felt my heart drop to the ground due to the scene not far from where I was. Gabriel got out of his car. He opened the passenger side and helped get the bitch to step out. Stacey. -''They''re also having a monthly checkup? And Gabriel is with her?''- asked the left side of my heart. -''Well, what would you expect? He''s the father.''- and the right responded. I gulped the pain which I noticed has be my daily dose of vitamins. I chuckled and shook my head. He put his hand on her lower back and theyughed as if they were a real couple. Well, they are only if I''m not married to him. "Wow, life! I love my life!" I muttered slowly andughed again. "Come on, Madi! Don''t you ever cry again! Aren''t you used to it? Come on!" I asked patting both of my cheeks and trying not to cry. "If you allow your feelings and the pain to let you down again this moment, you can never call yourself a strong person! Pretending to be happy when you''re in pain is an example of how strong you are as a person! Get up, Madi. Just this once! Go!" I cheered myself up as I watched them walking towards the building entrance. "Just pretend you haven''t seen them or pretend it''s not them! Come on, you can do it!" I sighed and started walking my way towards the building. "Remember who you are! You''re Madi! The ever-beautiful, confident, and STRONG Madi!" That was thest self-advice I gave myself before turning my attention to the path I was walking on. I looked straight ahead and waited for them to disappear from my sight before deciding to enter the building. But to my not-so-lucky-fucking-day, they stopped right in front of the clinic door where George was currently at. And my hand automatically covered my mouth to suppress the gasp when I saw them kissing. -''Oh fuck! So they''re now together?''- I didn''t finish the scene as I ran towards the nearest restroom. The moment I entered the door, the loud sobs were racing to escape my throat. I was the only person inside, so I let the pain be out of my system. I looked at myself in the mirror with tears obscuring my vision and wondered in silence. -''When will you learn, Madi? Until when will you let the pain eat you up every time you''re about to see the same scene in front of you?-'' I looked down and closed my eyes. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org. -''When will you let go? When will you stop that stupidity in you? You''ve suffered so much since you learned to love him. How long will you let him hurt you in silence?''- "Cheating or one-sided love?" I gasped when someone spoke behind me. I looked at the person in the mirror and saw the woman who asked me. She''s in herte fifties. I wiped my tears with the tissue I took from my bag and looked directly at her. "Cheating or one-sided love?" she asked me again. I smiled at her bitterly as another river of tears flowed from my eyes. "Both." I replied, closing my eyes and clinging to the edge of the counter. I felt a hand on my shoulder and when I looked in the mirror, I saw her smile at me sincerely, but with a hint of sadness. "If it''s both, it means it''s hurting you deeply. It cuts everything, your heart, and your soul, right?" I nodded, wiping my tears. "Then why don''t you let go? Why don''t you give up?" I chuckled bitterly at her questions. "Actually Ma''am, those are the same questions I was asking myself earlier. And the stupid me couldn''t find the answer." "Honey.. look at me." she smiled and cupped my cheeks and let me look directly at her. "Sometimes, we need to cry, be sad, break down and tear apart, so that we can learn how to pick ourselves and put it back together. Sometimes, things have to go wrong before they can go right." She let go of my face and took both of my hands. "What''s your name, honey?" "Madi." "Madi, sometimes we need to know how to feel weak, to know how to be strong. You have to be broken, so when the paines to an end, and you be whole again.. you will realize you''ve never been shattered." My tears finally came to stop. "But always remember this, Madi. Suffering doesn''t mean, you have to let those people or that person hurt you repeatedly. Once is enough, twice well, think about it. But if it''s more than that, let go of it, honey. In a rtionship, you need both to grow together and not grow alone. That is what we called partnership." She massaged both of my knuckles and smiled at me. "If you spend too long holding on to him, who you know doesn''t treat you the way you deserve, you''ll miss finding the one who will treat you as his priority. Don''t waste your time and your tears on whoever that bastard is! He doesn''t have the balls to treat you right, then leave him! Dump that man whose the balls were at his feet!" I can''t help butugh at herst sentence. "See? You''re beautiful, Madi. Don''t waste your love on someone who can''t see your worth! Yes, leaving him will cause you pain, and a wound from it. But when the pain subsides, the wound will heal. It will leave you a scar but it will fade and disappear over time. Don''t embrace the pain, embrace the life and happiness you will haveter." She smiled and winked at me. I was about to speak when I heard my phone ring. "Excuse me, Ma''am. I just have to answer this." "Oh, sure. By the way, I am Erica. I hope someday when we meet again, you''re smiling orughing. And you already find the perfect one for you. I wish you happiness, Madi." she hugged me before exiting the restroom. I sighed and looked at myself in the mirror. I don''t know but all her words were like the touch of an angel to me. I smiled as I answered my phone. "Hello, George?" "Hey girl, where are you? My doctor and I have been waiting for you for almost thirty minutes. I thought you said you''re already in the parking lot?" "Oh, yeah, I''m sorry. I just ran into someone on my way there." "Someone?" "Yup, don''t worry, I''m on my way now." "Okay. Bye." I sighed after ending the call. I retouched the smudged makeup on my face before deciding to go to the clinic where George, my husband, and the bitch were in. I took a deep breath just when I was exactly in front of the clinic. -''I can do this''- I muttered to myself. Wearing a stretched smile, I pushed the door and the first person who came into my sight was the face of my husband sitting next to Stacey, and in front of them was George while she''s on her phone. They turned to look at me and from their nk face, it quickly changed to different expressions the moment they recognized me. George shed me with a wide smile, Stacey the bitch red at me while Gabriel couldn''t paint the shock written on his face when he recognized me. I admit, seeing him next to her and inside that clinic was a big p in my face. It was like a million knives stabbing into my heart, but then again, I just swallowed the pain and pretended it was nothing and I wasn''t affected. "Madi..." Gabriel murmured, getting up but George was faster than him. "Madi! Thank God, you came!" George squealed and hugged me tightly. "Of course! I told you, I''m on my way." I hugged her back. I can clearly see Gabriel in the corner of my eyes watching our interaction, but I pretended I didn''t notice him since I entered the clinic. "Hey, who''s that someone you said you met on your way here?" I tried tough and thanks to my acting skills, I did. "It''s just someone." I wonder if George doesn''t recognize Gabriel or she''s just also pretending. "It''s just someone... nothing special?" I smiled and was about to open my mouth when I felt a hand on my arm. "Madi." I knew whose hand it was. And then I pretended to be surprised to see him in the same ce. "Gabriel?" "Love..." "What are you------" I paused and intentionally gasped when I saw Stacey. She''s wearing again her demonic grim. She got up and put her hand on Gabriel''s arm. My eyes followed the movement of her hand before turned my eyes back to Gabriel. "Ohh...so, you''re with her." It''s not a question, it''s a statement. "Love, I''ll exin this----" "You have nothing to exin, love." I smiled, emphasizing the word love. "Don''t worry, I am an open- minded person and I have the heart for the needy," I said smiling while caressing his cheek. I''m done with his exnation. "Let''s talk about this, please?" he tried to take my hand but I simply put it on my head and flipped my hair back to my shoulder. I just smiled at him. "Love, I understand, I promise." Yeah, I now understand what sacrifices mean, and where and when it should have ended. "Ms. George Valentine, is your employer stilling?" we all turned to the woman in a white gown who asked George. "Oh yeah. She''s here doctor." George answered and held my arm. She introduced me to the doctor as her friend and employer. But in my back, I didn''t miss the bitch''s question. "Employer?" I smirked but focussed my attention on the doctor in front of me. "Ohh... so you are the famous Madielyn Davis? You''re the woman behind the sessful Maiden Restaurant in town?" My jaws dropped with the Doctor''s introduction and my eyes slowly darted at the smiling George whose fingers are in a peace sign. I didn''t expect that. "I''m so d to finally meet you, Ma''am." "Haha." I smiled awkwardly, epting her hand. "I''m a fan of your Italian Bolognese pasta." "Really, thank you." I simply replied. "By the way, I''m Tricia Marquez and I''m the doctor of your friend and employee. Madielyn Davis, right--- " she didn''t get the chance to finish her question as she was interrupted by the person behind me. "Wilsons!" "Huh?" she frowned and we both turned to now standing Gabriel. He walked over to us and put his hand on my lower back. "I said Wilsons. She''s my wife, she''s already married to me, so she''s now Madielyn Wilsons, and no longer Davis." My mouth hung open with his words, but the frown on the Doctor''s face just got deeper. "Wilsons? Sir, I thought you''re with Miss---" "No! She''s not my wife. She''s just my friend." "Ahh... okay," the doctor said nodding but I didn''t miss the evidence of doubt on her face. I just shook my head and remained quiet. But deep inside, the irritation began to build. We sat in the long chair but Gabriel chose to sit next to me, despite the bitch protests. Chapter 65: She finally realized Chapter 65: She finally realized "Madielyn!" George pulled me out of the clinic after finishing someboratory tests with her doctor. "What?" I asked her, confused. "When did you get married? You didn''t tell me you''re already married! And what was that inside, what was that scene? I thought you''re dating that Gabriel guy? What happened, why was he with that pregnant woman?" -''Ohh, so she still doesn''t know.''- "Yes, we''re married but just in papers-----" "What? What do you mean you''re married but just in papers? Does your Mom know about this?" My eyes widened with her question. "No, she doesn''t know any of this. And it''s a long story, George. I promise I''m going to exin all this to you but not now." "Fine. But tell me who''s that girl with him? Was she his real friend or-----" "Ex-girlfriend." "Ex-girlfriend?" I nodded. " If she''s the ex-girlfriend and you''re the wife---what was that Madielyn?" her face turned into a scowl. "Hey, calm down, George." I chuckled as I tried to calm her. "Calm down? And you''re really the one telling me to calm down, huh?" she ced her hands on her hips as she red at me. "Because you''re pregnant." "Gosh, Madielyn! You''re just letting your husband go with his ex-girlfriend? What kind of a wife are you?" "Huh!" I gasped. Why me? "George, listen to me, please! It''s not what you think it is! I told you I''m gonna exin this to you in some other time!" "Fine!" We separated our ways when we reached the parking lot because we were upying a different parking space. "Madi!" I heard Gabriel''s voice as I was about to open the car door. I turned to look at him and saw him running in my direction. He took my hand, but I didn''t protest nor did Iin, I just stared at him. "Love, she sent me a message earlier. She said she had to see her doctor today for her check-up and that she didn''t have anyone toe with her." "Why are you telling me this, Gabriel?" I asked, pretending as if it was nothing to me. "Because you must know about this, you''re my wife," he said taking again my other hand. I chuckled sarcastically. "Really? Am I your wife? Gabriel, if you consider me your wife, you will tell me about this before you decide to go with her. But that''s okay, because I know I''m not your real wife, I''m just your fake wife. And I''m not asking for your exnation, because sooner orter, this deal wille to an end." "No---" I cut him off immediately. "Gabriel, I told you. You don''t need to exin. Everything''s fine with me. We''re married in the first ce because of her. You''re here because of her. She''s pregnant and she needed you, she needed the father of her baby." I shrugged. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. "Madi, please let me rify these things. When she texted me, I was just about to call her to do an early DNA test with the baby." "Ohh..." I said nodding. "I see. I thought you were back together because you''re so sweet, you know, ''kissing." I just muttered thest word to myself. "You''ve seen us?" his eyes widened. -''Oh, gosh! Did I say it out loud? Argh! stupid!''- "Well, yeah." I chose to tell the truth. "I just didn''t show up because I didn''t want to interrupt you and your romantic moment together." "Madi, I''m telling you it''s not what you think it is----" "Gabriel, whatever I''m thinking, does it matter? It''s the second time I''ve seen you kissing her, and it''s also the second time you''ve told me it''s not what I think it is. Well, whether you''re the one who kissed her or she''s the one who made the first move, the thing is---- I don''t care! You can kiss all the girls you want to kiss and I''m not in a position to judge you or to stop you!" I opened the door on the driver''s side but I was stopped in the middle when I heard him speak. "You''re jealous." My head immediately snapped at him and Iughed at the hidden truth about it. "Me, jealous?" I asked pointing to myself. "Do you hear yourself, Gabriel? Why would I be jealous if, in the first ce, I don''t even have a single right to feel that? We''re just ''friends'' right? And I was just your ''fake'' wife!" "Madi---" "Gabi!" But he was cut off by the bitch''s voice behind him. I nced at her with a formed fist as he turned around. "What?" he asked her irritably "I can feel something hurting in my belly, Gabi. Ouch!" -''Ouch your face!''- My face turned sour and couldn''t help but roll my eyes when she held her belly and pretended as if she was really in pain. I couldn''t help but shake my head and hissed in irritation. I thought I was the only one to hold the title of being the best actress, but guess what... I was wrong because I was just the first runner up here. The real winner is the bitch-Stacey in front of me. -''Tsk.Tsk.Tsk. Congrattions! We have a winner!''- But Gabriel, of course, ran towards the mother of his second baby. I don''t know why I was still standing there watching them make a scene in front of me. The bitch who''s just obviously faking her pain just to have Gabriel on her side, and Gabriel who seemed very anxious for his beloved ex. -''This is it! This is too much!''- I muttered and turned my eyes away from them. I opened the car door and finally closed it, ignoring my husband who followed me while calling my name. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Three dayster... Three days... I have given myself three days to think about all the things and events of these past days. I filed for a three-day vacation leave, so I can take some time for myself and analyze what I want, what I need, and what I feel. The advice of thedy in the restroom kept ringing in my head even at night, when I was going to bed or when I was about to close my eyes... **Suffering doesn''t mean, you have to let those people or that person hurt you repeatedly** Did I let him do it, or am I the one to me for why he does it repeatedly? **If you spend too long holding on to him, which you know doesn''t treat you the way you deserve, you''ll miss finding the one who will treat you as his priority. Don''t waste your time and your tears.** Am I that hopeless... holding on to someone I know who can''t love me back? **Don''t waste your love for someone who can''t see your worth.** Am I not enough? Am I never going to be enough? **Leaving him will cause you pain and a wound from it. But when the pain subsides, the wound will heal. You will be left with a scar but it will fade and disappear over time.** I wish it will, because if only tears could heal the pain inside me... I think I would have to cry my whole life because I don''t know when will I stay in love with him. **Don''t embrace the pain, embrace the life and happiness you will haveter.** How could I not embrace the pain, if even I don''t allow myself... it''s the one embracing me? But as they say, everything has an end. In every sacrifice, we must put an end to prevent it from leading us into pain. And I finally realized that it should be time to think about myself. I need to get up and bring the old me again the ''Old Madi''. Who''s always willing to help others but hasn''t forgotten how to help herself first. The one who''s brave and strong to face every consequence that life holds for her. And now it''s time... Chapter 66: Last night with him Chapter 66: Last night with him Seven pm. in our house... "Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you... happy birthday, happy birthday, happy birthday... Elsa." Me, including all of our maids, some guards, even the hardener we''re all in the living room and celebrating one of our maids'' birthday, Elsa. It''s thest day of my vacation leave and Gabriel is still in the office. "Thank you, Ma''am Madi. You''re the best!" Elsa has tears in her eyes when she walked closer to me. I "It''s a small thing, Elsa. It''s okay." I smiled and hugged her. I was in the mood to cook earlier, especially when I heard that it''s her birthday. It would be my first and last birthday gift to her. "No, Ma''am, for me, it''s a big thing. It''s the first time I would celebrate my birthday here in the mansion with a lot of food! Thank you, Ma''am Madi." She said hugging me again and I hugged her back with tears also forming around my eyes. I will miss that moment. I will surely miss them. "Happy birthday! Let''s stop all the drama and let''s start the celebration!" I raised my ss of wine. "Cheers!" and everyone followed my action. "Cheers for Elsa''s birthday!" "Cheers!" -''Cheers for my aching heart, and the pain I am about to go through after this.''- I silently screamed. "But you know what Ma''am Madi, we''re all happy that you came into this house." We all turned to one of the guards, Simon. "Yes, that''s true Ma''am Madi. When you came here, we started to feel like this is a real home and not just an empty mansion." it''s Lily one of the maids. "Yeah, an empty mansion with a grumpy ghost---- I mean, boss!" and we allughed with what Elsa added. "It''s the first time we have eaten this type of food. Thank you so much Ma''am Madi for cooking this delicious food for Elsa''s birthday." I couldn''t help but smile when everyone sent me their thanks and warm hugs. "It''s okay and because of that, I will give you all something," I said smiling as I took the cards out of my shorts'' pocket. "Tada!" I gave them the ck VIP card one by one and all their eyes went wide as they looked at me. "Oh, my God! Is this real, Ma''am Madi?" Elsa''s eyes were wide as saucers. "Yes, that''s real and that''s all yours." and I heard their gasps and squeals. "Do you know the ''Maiden Restaurant'' in town?" "Yes, Ma''am, that''s one of the famous restaurants here in the City." "But we''ve never tried to eat there or go in because it''s too ssy and it''s only for rich people." "No! That''s not true! Who told you guys about that?" my eyebrows scrunched as I looked at them one by one. "We''ve just heard some people talking about that restaurant when we were in the supermarket." "Ahh.. okay," I said nodding. "Well, that restaurant was happened to be mine." "Huh?" they all gasped in surprise. "Yes, I am the owner of Maiden Restaurant. Maiden is short for Madielyn, which was my nickname when I was a kid and it''s my Dad''s nickname for me. And the card that each of you is holding right now, that''s the VIP card of the restaurant." I paused just to chuckle at their reactions. "Don''t ask me how much is the amount inside that card, because it''s a huge amount, guys. I was the one who put the money in there and anytime from now on, you can go in and eat in that restaurant for free! Anytime... using that card!" "Wow!" "Oh my God! This is a dreame true!" "Thank you, Ma''am Madi!" they all squealed in happiness and excitement. "Cheers for Ma''am Madi!" "Cheers!" And because we''re too busy with our apuse sessions, we didn''t notice the sound of Gabriel''s car and the opening of the front door. We all turned to him. He has a shocked expression when he saw every one of us wearing a party hat. I took a deep breath before wearing the sweetest smile I could muster and walked over to him. "Hi, it''s Elsa''s birthday." I kissed him on the cheek, but he pulled me into a tight hug. He put his head in the crook of my neck and inhaling my scent. I gulped as I felt the shivers slowly crawling down my spine. Everyone around us was cheering and pping their hands, especially the guards who don''t know our setup yet. Well, we don''t need to inform all the maids because they can see which room we''re from every morning. I hugged him back and even filled my nostrils with his manly scent. I will miss all of this. "Love..." He whispered. "Hmm?" "Tomorrow we will have the results of the DNA test." I gulped again as he continued to whisper. "Ahh... well good luck." He pulled back and looked directly at me. "I''m still hoping it''s not mine." I smiled and cupped his cheek. "Well, whether it''s yours or not, it''s still a blessing. It''s a precious gift from heaven. And love, let''s not talk about it tonight. It''s Elsa''s birthday, let''s just talk about it tomorrow." He nodded and smiled at me. I don''t want to hear that topic at that moment and if he sees me in the mansion the next morning when he gets back, then we will talk about it... forever. We stood there staring at each other''s eyes. "Wait, have you had dinner, ''love''?" I was the one who broke the staring contest. "No, not yet." he put his hand on my lower back. "Sir, would you like me to serve you dinner? Ma''am Madi cooked bolognese pasta and delicious lasagna." Elsa told him with a wide smile. "Really?" he turned to me and I smiled, nodding. "Yes, it''s for her birthday." and he kissed my forehead. Elsa brought him dinner in the living room with us. "Happy birthday, Elsa." "Thank you, Sir." "Hey, please continue what you''re doing. Don''t mind me here, I''m just going to watch you guys," he said and started eating. "Okay, let''s start the party," I said motioning for Simon to open and set up the entertainment device. It''s myst night with them and myst night with him. So, I''m going to seize every minute and second of the moment. We started picking our songs from the songbook and putting them on the screen. And when Gabriel finished eating, he also joined us to celebrate Elsa''s birthday. For me, it''s a double celebration... the last one is for my heart and soul that is about to die tomorrow. "Okay, that''s my song." I squealed when I saw the title on the screen, although my heart started to cry. ***I will leave my heart at the door, I won''t say a word. They''ve all been said before you know. So why don''t we just y pretend, like we''re not scared of what''sing next or scared of having nothing left? Look don''t get me wrong, I know there''s no tomorrow... All I ask is if this is myst night with you, hold me like I''m more than just a friend. Give me a memory I can use, take me by the hand while we do what lovers do. It matters how this ends, ''cause what if I never love again...*** They all pped their hands and cheered for me, except Gabriel who''s just sitting on the couch and staring at me with an emotion I couldn''t even read... no... I really don''t want to read. I don''t wanna look into his eyes, because I don''t want to melt again. It''s not new to me that anyone can fall in love with him. Just the way he smiles can make anyone''s heart melt. The way he moves can make anyone turned around. The way heughs can send a certain vibration into someone''s heart. And the way his eyes mirror into someone else''s and can speak thousands of unspoken words. So if someone''s gonna ask me why I fell in love with him, that''s my answer. And why it''s hard to say goodbye and let go of these feelings go, it''s because everything about him is like magic. In which, he casts spells that have made my world magical, even in those short periods of time. And another title of the song shed on the screen. This is it. ***It pains my heart to see you go away, ''cause I thought you''ll always stay. I just can''t believe it''s true, ''cause I''m still in love with you. I''m gonna make it through without you, soon I''lle to see the light. Won''t be living in my dreams, and what''s far from my sight... I''m going to miss you, oh baby. Gonna miss everything about you, gonna miss your love. So now I''m letting you go, it''s the right thing for me to do. Though it hurts me so, it''s so hard I know...I''m letting you go..*** (Jaime Rivera) I blinked back the tears that began to form in my eyes when I noticed the kind of look he''s giving me as I sang the chorus of the song, but I ignored him and continued to sing. ***You''ll always be a special part of me... though we''re not meant to be... At that moment, I became brave. I walked over to him and looked into his eyes as I sang the next lyrics. ***Knowing you I won''t forget, loving you I''ll never regret... So now I''m letting you go, It''s the right thing for me to do.. though it hurts me so, it''s so hard I know... I''m letting you go... I''m letting you go...*** Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org. And a lone tear escaped my eyes, but I immediately wiped it and turned around to pass the microphone to Elsa. But the moment I turned around again, I was engulfed by a tight hug and a deep, passionate kiss. And that moment, no matter how hard I tried to control my tears, they were as stupid as me because they were all racing down my cheeks. When he pulled back, he noticed the tears from my eyes. He wiped them with his thumb as looked directly at me. "Why do I feel that you''re going to leave me?" he asked almost a whisper, and I had tough just to stop my tears. "Going to leave you--- what are you talking about?" "With your songs, i''s like a message of goodbye." Iughed again and held both his hands. "It''s just a song, Gab." I took a deep breath before pulling him into a bone-crushing hug. -''You have no idea how hard it is for me to do this, and how hard it is to let you go, but I have to because it''s better than pretending to be fine in front of you. I have to do it for myself. I have to stop dreaming that you will love me back, that will be mine. I don''t want to give up on this love, but it''s slowly tearing me apart day by day every time I see you with her. I can''t do it anymore, Gabriel.''- Chapter 67: Her biggest decision Chapter 67: Her biggest decision The moment I noticed Gabriel''s car exiting the gate, I immediately pulled my suitcase out from under my bed. I just put some of my clothes and shoes in there. I didn''t bring those things Gabriel bought and gave to me. I left a long white folder with my note, and divorce papers inside. The day I saw Gabriel with Stacey in the clinic, I dialed mywyer''s number and asked him to make a copy of the divorce paper and I''m gonna pick it up in his office. Andst night, I finally signed it. I pulled out my bag with tears flowing down my cheeks as I roamed my eyes into the room for thest time. I smiled bitterly as I remember those tears and smiles I shared with my bed especially my pillows. When I reached down the living room, I saw Elsa and some of the maids doing their daily routine around the house. Cleaning, mopping and wiping all the things their eyes can see. "Ma''am Madi, are you leaving?" One of them asked me, and I tried to smile even as the tears kept falling. "Are you leaving us? Are you leaving Sir Gabriel?" "I''m sorry Elsa, I''m sorry guys but I have to. And I''m not leaving you, I''m just leaving my pain here. I think it''s time to... to start a new life without these grudges." "You love him, Ma''am Madi. Because you''re not going to sacrifice being in this state if not." I smiled at them. "Thanks, guys. I will miss you all. Simon, please admit your feelings to Elsa,e on. Be a man, big boy!" Simon who was just passing by the kitchen widened his eyes and Elsa blushed a deep shade of red. We allughed at the blushing Elsa and Simon scratched the back of his head. And we''re serious again, I removed my wedding ring and put it in Elsa''s hand. "Ma''am?" "Can you do me a favor, Elsa?" "Yes Ma''am, as long as I can, I''ll do it for you, Ma''am Madi." "Can you please return this to him? And tell him that... this ring doesn''t belong to me." "But Ma''am-----" "Thanks, Elsa, thanks, guys." I hugged them one by one before pulling my bag towards the front door. I can hear their cries, their calls but I don''t have time to turn around. I walked towards the gate and smiled at the sad faces of the security guards. "Ma''am Madi, we will miss you. We hope to see you again in the future." "Don''t forget us, Ma''am Madi." "I won''t forget you guys, I promise. Take care of this house and take care of yourself. Thank you, guys. I have to go." They opened the gate and the face of my waiting brother came into my sight. He''s leaning against the car door. "Bryan." "Sis!" his face turned sour when he saw me crying. I ran up to him and hugged him tightly. "I missed you, Bryan." "I missed you too, Sis," he said hugging me back as he kissed my head. Bryan is my eldest sibling, next is Madison. I called him three days ago and asked him for a favor, and he didn''t hesitate to help me. I''ll leave my car in the mansion and text Sandy or Noelle to get it before I change my number. Bryan took my bag and put it in the car''spartment. He then took my hand and pulled me into the passenger seat. But before I go in, I took my phone out of my pocket and gave it to him. "What''s this?" he asked me confused. "Can you take a picture of me?" I asked walking to the closed gate. He smiled and nodded. I know he has a lot of questions to ask me, but he''s just giving me thisst moment. "Thank you, Bry. I love you." I smiled, giving him a flying kiss, but he just ruffled my hair. "Get inside, we still have a long ride." I sighed and took a final at the mansion behind me. -''Bye... thanks for being my home for thest three months. I will miss you and your owner. Just tell him I love him as I can never tell him out loud. Please take care of him. Be his home in times when he needed a home andfort that I know I can no longer give him.''- I closed my eyes and let the tears flow for thest time. I hope it''s thest time. I''m not sure. I opened the door and looked at the face of my brother who''s just watching me from the driver''s seat. He started the engine once I closed the door next to me. "You must love the owner of that mansion. Because based on your tears, I can see that you''re in pain, Sis." he said patting my knee." "Can we turn on the radio, Bry?" I asked him ignoring what he said. "Sure, if that''s what you feel is right to temporarily ease your sadness. But remember, Madi.. your brother here is just waiting for you to share the story behind that tears." I smiled at him and nodded. I opened turned on his car radio just to kill my heart again. ***Now here ites the hardest part of all, unchain my heart that''s holding on. How do I start to live my life alone? Guess I''m just learning, learning the art of letting go... Try to say it''s over, say the word goodbye, but each time it catches in my throat. You''re still here in me, and I can''t set you free. So I hold on to what I wanted most. Maybe someday, we''ll be friends forevermore. Wish I could open that door... Where do I start to leave my life alone? I guess I''m learning, only learning... learning the art of letting go.*** * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Gabriel''s POV: Negative. The result of the DNA test I got from the clinic this morning. And to say the relief it brought me, was an understatement. But of course, I didn''t easily let Stacey go easily at that moment. If she happened to be a man and she''s not pregnant, I don''t even know what can I do with her if it''s not for the Doctor who stopped me from hitting her. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ shback... Combined Paternity Index: 0 Probability of Paternity: 0% The alleged fathercks the gic markers that must be contributed to the child by the biological father. "So, does this mean negative?" I asked the Doctor who gave me the DNA results. "Yes, Mr. Wilsons. The DNA test result is negative---" "Goddamnit! You fucking lied to me!" I crumpled the paper and threw it in Stacey''s face. She screamed and tried to touch my hand but I swatted it away. "I''m sorry, Gabi, I''m sorry." "Sorry? Are you fucking crazy? You lied to me! You fooled me again!" "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean that to happen. I just want you back, Gabi. I still love you. I love you.." she said in tears, but I was no longer affected by her drama. "You love me? How dare you use the word love for your selfish being, Stacey! And don''t touch me!" I pushed her onto the couch. "Mr. Wilsons, she''s pregnant. I red at the doctor before I made my way out of theboratory clinic, but the fucking woman followed me out. "Gabi, wait, let me exin." she grabbed my hand and I narrowed my eyes on her. "Get your hands off from me or I swear to God Stacey, I''m gonna fucking kill you!" She gasped and took her hands back. "Gabi, please---" N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "Please what? Exin? Let me tell you this woman!" I pointed my finger to her forehead and hardly pushed it. "I regret those times that I became your tail! That I did everything you wanted me to do! I was such a fool before but that''s not gonna happen again!" I said through gritted teeth. "You killed my child, one innocent child who could live his or her life in this world freely! I gave up all my dreams for you, I gave you everything... but what did you do? You left me and you chose to be with him!" "Gabi, I was just confused before, but believe me, I never stop loving you. "Really? Well, I did! I already stopped myself from loving you... no...I''ve realized that I didn''t love at all. I was just in love with the idea of having someone next to me. And you know what the second thing I''ve realized? That I should thank you for dumping me, because of that, I met my wife! And I love her. So stop all of your drama because I''m done with you!" "Gabi..." I walked away from her, thanking the one from above for making these things this way. I''m ready now. I can say that I''mplete again to give my all to my wife. I''m ready to start the new chapter with her. But little did I know that the things I am about to discover when I get home, are more than the things I''ve been through before... Chapter 68: His greatest loss Chapter 68: His greatest loss Gabriel''s POV: I ran towards the front door as soon as I got out of my car. I can''t contain the happiness inside me and I''m so excited to see my wife. I want to confess to her what I really feel, and share this good news at the same time. "Love..." I called her the moment I walked in the front door, but the faces of our maids who have tears in their eyes were the first thing that came into my view. I ignored them as I called Madi''s name. And since all of them were silent, my voice echoed throughout the living room. "Have you seen my wife?" I asked them and they all shared a look. I didn''t wait for them to answer as I ran my way upstairs and knocked on her bedroom door. "Madi.." I knocked for the third time, but I got no answer from her inside. I tried to opened the doorknob and pushed the door only to find her room ''empty''. I checked the bathroom but she''s not inside. The strange feeling began to kick inside me as I walked over to her closet while still calling her name. But I was stopped in my tracks when I found it almost empty. The clothes I bought for her remained on its hanger, but all the clothes she brought here the first time were all gone. I opened the drawers to see they were also empty, the only thing I found inside was the ck credit card I gave her. A cold sweat washed over me and my heart began thumping violently, almost painfully inside my chest. I went back into the room and my eyesnded on the long white folder on top of her makeup stand. I picked up the folder and suddenly I felt the world stopped and spun around me. Divorce papers. Her name was printed at the end of the sheet with her signature on it. I gulped as I found myself sitting on the edge of the bed. Emptiness. I felt empty, so fucking empty inside. I tried to think back on everything that happened in the last few days and it hit me. Her songs.. her tears.. they were all signs that she''s leaving me, and I''m fucking fool not to recognize them all. I brushed my hair up through my fingers as I closed my eyes. I wanted to shout, I wanted to punch something and I wanted to cry. I didn''t notice that I dropped the folder on the floor. And when I stand, I saw another white stationery together with the divorce papers scattered between my feet. My hands started to shake I recognized it was a letter from her. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Gabriel Wilsons; I don''t really know how to start this letter, but I hope you''ll read it to thest word. Sir, Mr. Wilsons.. first of all, I want to thank you for hiring me as your personal assistant at the WEC. It has been a real challenge for me every day to bring you your coffee, especially when you are in a bad and grumpy old. I learned a lot from you, Sir. Gabriel... thank you for giving me the offer and agreement to be your wife. I know we''re just a fake couple, but I admit.. those days with you were the happiest and memorable moments that have happened in my life. Thank you for giving me ''some firsts'' in my life, especially for stealing my first kiss. A chuckle escaped from my lips. -''So, I was her first kiss.''- To my friend Gab..thank you for sharing some of your deepest secrets in life with me and for listening to some of my weird stories. Thank you, Gab, for being my friend even just in a short period of time. Andstly to my husband for three months... thank you ''love'' and I''m sorry, if I may not be able to keep my promise not to leave you and to support you until the end of your ns. Because as I promised you from the very beginning, I will only help you get ''HER'' back into your life, but not for your n of revenge against her. If you still love her, pursue whatever you guys had before, especially now that you''re going to be a father again. Marry her, be her husband and a father for your second baby. But if you don''t love her anymore, moved on Gab. Let her go, let your heart be free from pain, hurt, and disappointments of your past. Because the sooner you let them go, the sooner your traumas will heal, and you will find the real meaning of happiness in your life. Don''t make your life miserable just because you lost your first dream. And just because the past didn''t turn out the way you wanted, it doesn''t mean your future can''t be better than you ever imagined. There were a lot of opportunities that wille into your life if you just let your door open for every possibility. And by the way, this letter doesn''t mean goodbye, but it''s a new beginning for both of us. I''ve already asked mywyer for a copy of our divorce paper. I''ve already signed my name and signature there and all you have to do is to sign and file it. Challenge epted, and challenge fulfilled for Madi. You will always be a special part of me and I hope that when we meet again in the future, you are the new Gabriel Wilsons with new hope and a new smile of happiness on your face. Your employee, your friend, and your ''fake wife'', Madi ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A tear of sadness rolled down my face, then it was followed by another one and it became a whimper. She''s gone. She left me. I fall back into the bed with her letter in my hand and tears in my eyes. I looked up at the ceiling as I felt the sudden feeling of being alone in my entire life. Her scent still lingered in her room, in the bedsheet, and on her pillow. Now I understand the real meaning of emptiness and loneliness in one. I have never felt like this before not even when Stacey left me and chose Ray over me. I made a mistake once, and I did it again. I lost her, I lost my wife without even telling my feelings for her. I''m such a fool. "No! It can''t be! She can''t leave me without exining all this to me!" I said getting up from the bed. Wiping my tears I took my phone out of my pocket and dialed her number. I ran out the door and went back to the living room where the maids were still standing in where I had seen them earlier. Madi''s number is already unattended but I tried to dial it again. "Any of you! Have you seen my wife this morning?" I asked them in no particr but they didn''t answer my question, they just shared a look again. "I asked you a fucking question! Answer me! Did any of you see my wife this morning?" They all gasped when I started to shout. I don''t have time for their dramas, I need to see my wife. I need to find her and my time is running out. "Sir..." Elsa walked over to me and gave me something that made my mouth and heart dropped to the floor. Madi''s ring. Her wedding ring. I looked nkly at it. I don''t even know how to ept it. "She wanted me to give you this back, Sir. She said it doesn''t belong to her and she has no right to wear it." I stared at Elsa''s face and secondster, I just found myselfughing bitterly. I closed my eyes as I frustratedly brushed my hair up with my fingers. "Fuck!" I yelled and punched the nearest wall that came into my sight. I can''t take it. I can''t take the pain. It tears me inside. Why now? Why does it have to happen right now when I know I''m ready to give my heart again? When I''m ready to forget my past? "She''s crying when she pulled her bag out the door." Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org. I heard Elsa''s voice from behind and I turned around to see her in tears. "Sir, I think she loves you. She said she just wanted to forget the pain inside this house." "Fuck!" I knew it! She felt the same way for me. But I was such a fucking fool not to tell her my feelings. I was such a dumb bastard that I didn''t appreciate her efforts. I was a jerk not to recognize that I love her for so long. And now she''s gone and I don''t know how to find her again this time. Chapter 69: His biggest mistake Chapter 69: His biggest mistake Nancy''s POV: ...I have a dream so loud...I jumped so high I touched the clouds...Wo-o-o-o-o-oh, wo-o-o-o-o-oh... "Fucking shit! Who is this crazy calling at this early hour?" I reached for my phone and adjusted my eyes to the sudden lighting from it. It''s Ferlix, my gay friend who owned an exclusive bar. "Hello, Ferlix? What do you want-----?" "Oh, Nancy Wilsons! I want your fucking ass here in my bar right now!" I scrunched my eyebrows. "Ferlix! You''re calling me at two in the morning just to go to your nightclub?" "Yes! Because FYI, your big brother punched my bar singer and created a huge scene here! There is a lot of paparazzi outside of my bar!" "Oh my God! You mean, Gabriel?" I heard him chuckled sarcastically. "And who else? Why, do you have any other siblings or one of your parents had an affair before and they-----" "Oh, you silly-mouthed-fish! Shut up! I''m gonna fly right there!" "Yeah, make sure to wear your wonder woman costume!" "Haha, so funny!" I ended the call and changed into a non-revealing outfit. I also dialed Greg''s number to help me take my brother home. I don''t know what happened to him. He suddenly became a regr customer of the nightclubs and bars around the City since Madi left him. It''s been a month since he called us, me, Greg, and all of Madi''s friends and asked if we know where he can find her. But sad to say, none of us know where she is. Gabriel has already explored all the avenues and has been chasing his tail for the whole month just to find Madi. But every night... he goes home drunk and crying. And I need to temporarily move into his house just to make sure he''ll go to work every day and carry out his responsibilities as the CEO of WEC. I have never seen him so devastated like this, not even when Stacey dumped him. I have never seen him cry, even when he found out that Stacey aborted their baby. He changed a lot since Madi left him. He looked so broken and shattered every night when he walked into Madi''s room and her bed. Nobody can talk to him, not even our parents. Well, only Greg who punched him because of his jerk actionstely. He has fired almost a hundred of his employees, and Dad needs to get back to thepany and support him until he''s finally stable mentally and emotionally. "Tsk.tsk.tsk. Fuck you, dear brother!" I mumbled to myself when I saw the bunches of paparazzi at the entrance of the bar. I texted Greg and Ferlix where I can enter without interruptions from these shutterbugs, and they replied.. at the back entrance. I saw them immediately when I stepped onto the dance floor. Gabriel was already asleep at the counter while Greg was trying to wake him up. We can hear the noise from outside despite the loud music that booming around the club. "What happened to him?" I asked Ferlix once I got in front of them. "Well, sweetie, your dear brother punched my bar singer as he yelled at the poor guy to stop singing!" "Huh? What did the singer do?" "Nothing! He''s just singing on the stage when your jerk of a brother pinned him to the wall and gave him his powerful punches. What was his problem with the song ''when I was your man''? God! This is so frustrating!" I frowned as I can''t believe that for that simple Gabriel punched someone innocent. "Okay, that''s enough. Nancy, let''s take him home." Greg said shaking his head. "Ferlix, I''m sorry about this. Just charged all the damages to my ount." "I certainly will, princess Wilsons," he said rolling his eyes. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ "Hmm.. love..." Greg and I shared a look when Gabriel stirred in his sleep. Greg was taking off his shoes while I wiped a damp cloth on his face. "Love..." "Love your ass! You''re calling her love, now that she''s gone? Now you learned to appreciate her efforts when she finally left you? Huh!" I huffed and can''t help rolling my eyes. Greg just shook his head. "I''m sorry, love. I didn''t mean to hurt you." I bit my lip when I saw the tears in his eyes. "Gabriel! Why did you punch the singer?" I asked while patting his cheek. "Hmm.. singer? Hmm.. fuck him!" And those were hisst words before falling asleep. I just sighed and continue to wipe his face. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Gabriel''s POV: "I fucking pay you to search for my wife! So, don''t you ever get back to me without any pieces of information about her! Do you understand? I don''t care whether you turned your life upside down! Just go on looking for my wife or else I will make your life a living hell!" I didn''t wait for my investigator to answer. I immediately ended the call because I don''t want to hear more of his exnations. I sighed and sat in my chair as I stared at Madi''s picture on my phone. It was taken inside her restaurant when we paid a visit. She''s wearing a nude sundress and a beautiful smile on her face. I smiled as I brought her picture to my lips. I closed my eyes and leaned back in my office chair as I reminisced some of our happy moments together. I missed her smile, herugh, her voice, and everything about her. I terribly missed her. It''s been six months since she left. And since then... it''s been a fucking hell living in our house. I moved some of my stuff in her old room and every night I wished to find her one of these days. I will be able to look at her smiling face, her eyes, and able to kiss her lips again. I tried to search for her everywhere. I hired a lot of private investigators just to find her, but they always failed. There''s no trace of her leaving the country, so I am still hoping she''s just in one of the corners of the busy streets of Chicago. I also tried to fly to Florida to asked her mother, but she couldn''t give me an answer. Even all of her friends and Greg have no idea where she is. And since then, Greg has be distant from me. I know deep inside him, he''s ming me for everything that happened. And I can''t take it from him, because I am also ming myself for being such an idiot and irresponsible towards what we had before. Every day, I tried to cheer up myself and forget all those fucking wrong decisions I made, which caused my life into this messy and miserable situation and caused her to walk away from me and my life. I was in that state when someone opened the door and walked into my office. "So, is that all you wanted to do in your life, Gabriel? Stare at Madi''s picture every second of every passing day?" "Dad." I sighed and straightened my sit as I put my phone back into my pocket. "What happened to your searching?" he asked sitting down in front of me. "Apparently... nothing." He smiled disapprovingly at me as he shook his head. "Do you remember the day when you introduced her to us?" I nced at him as he gave me a stare that held different emotions and that I couldn''t read. "I told you that day to take care of her and try to love her, remember?" N?velDrama.Org (C) content. I furrowed my eyebrows. "What do you mean, Dad?" "Did you really think that you can fool everyone in your family, son?" I gulped as I straightened my body. "You knew everything." "Yes. Everything. I just wanted you to prove yourself at that time. To know your true feelings between your ex and the woman who agreed to be with you without asking for anything in return. I also knew your ns for your ex, but I just kept my mouth shut." "H-How did you know about it?" "It''s not important son." he smiled bitterly and looked at me directly. "I like Madi, I told you about that before. She''s strong and an independent woman, Gabriel, but you''re too blind to see her worth. Have you ever thanked her and gave her flowers before? Even a single stem of her favorite flower? Or have you ever asked her what''s her favorite flower?" I was left speechless with my father''s questions. Have I ever gave her flowers before? "You don''t really need to answer those questions, because I know for sure the answer is no. She stayed by your side and agreed to marry you but you let her go. You''re too much busy flirting and taking revenge on your ex. So, after your ns... what did you get in return---nothing!" I didn''t say anything. I remained looking at my wedding ring, twirling it around my fingers. "Do you know about the story of a king who has ten gold rings on his fingers?" I nced at him but remained silent. "Once upon a time, there was a king who had ten golden rings on his fingers. One day, he lost one and ordered all his soldiers to find it in all corners of the castle. The search took almost three months. And because he''s too much busy searching for his one lost ring, he didn''t notice that he still has nine rings on his finger. He didn''t realize to give importance to those rings that he still holds. And one day when he woke up... he just found out that he lost all of them." He got up and walked over to me. He patted my shoulder before he speaking again. "Do you know what the story means and the moral lesson of it? Don''t waste your time counting all the things that are lost and gone, instead focus on the things and blessings that are still in your hands. Because in everything that is lost, my son, always has a beautiful thing in return. But that was your big mistake. You''ve let yourself be upied with your revenge and you haven''t noticed a beautiful, fine, and kind woman on your side." He ruffled up my hair like I was still his little kid before walking towards the door. "Get up, son. Find yourself. And when you''re ready, start finding her again. And promise me you''ll be waiting for her at the altar next time and not in some cheapw firm." I smiled as I shook my head when he winked at me before walking out the door. -''I promise Dad. I will find her and correct all my mistakes. I will make her the happiest woman in the world. I will love her and take care of her. And I promise at that time, I will never let her go again.''- Chapter 70: A glimpse of her Chapter 70: A glimpse of her Gabriel''s POV: Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org. Three yearster... "Thank you, gentlemen, foring and participating in this meeting..." h.h.h.h... I didn''t hear what the speaker''s next words were as I lost concentration as I watched passersby passing along the busy street of the Am-Phil building in Denver Colorado. I was currently in an important meeting in the city, but as we''re almost done discussing some business strategies and investments, I can''t help but look out and watch those people walk one by one. The meeting room was located just on the second floor of the building and surrounded by huge and clear ss panels, so I can freely see the happenings outside the building. It''s been three years and I''m still trying to find Madi. And because I am too desperate to see her, I also tried to watch every people passing by even in this kind of busy street while I silently prayed she might be one of them. I''ve been flying from a different country almost every other month, trying my luck to catch a glimpse of her. I became addicted to her perfume scent and it made me insane every time I smell the same scent of her on other women. I also became a fan of entertainment and business news on tv and online, hoping to be able to see her from one of them even in their everymercial. I hired several people to watch their house in Florida, and each one for her friends in case she ever showed up to them one day. But like every day of these past years, the result was the same as in my first year of searching... nothing. And here I am, trying again my luck to watch those people pacing their way across each other. But then my eyes widened as my heart started pounding inside when I suddenly caught a glimpse of a very familiar woman. I was stunned in my seat and I don''t know what to do. "Madi!" I mumbled loudly and finally walked over to the ss panel. I haven''t noticed the stares I was earning from the people inside the room. My heart was pounding loudly as my eyes tried to search again the crowd down the building. "Mr. Wilsons?" -''It''s her! I''m sure of it!''- "Mr. Wilsons?" -''I saw her!''- I kept muttering to myself as I craned my neck to see her again until I felt a tap on my shoulder. I nced at the owner of the hand. It''s Sandy, Madi''s friend, and my secretary. "Sir, they''re all waiting for you." I looked around to see all of them watching me with different questions swirling in their eyes. I sighed and tried to look out again before returning to the long table. "I''m sorry gentlemen. I just thought I saw my wife." I exined with a half-hearted smile. "Your wife, meaning you''re married?" asked one of the gentlemen at the table. "Yes, three years ago." "If so, where is she? What happened to her and why do you look so down?" "Actually, right at this moment I don''t where she is, and I don''t know how I can find her. I made a huge mistake in our rtionship before, that''s why she left me. And until now, I''m still searching for her. I''m hoping I can still correct all those mistakes and hopefully, she can give me a chance." I said with a sad smile but looking in no particr. I''m just looking at the red roses that are beautifully arranged in the middle of the long table. How I wish I could turn back all those times and reset what happened. Maybe we are now a happy couple, probably with one or two kids. Maybe she''s now with me or waiting for me at our home wearing her beautiful smile just for me. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Sandy''s POV: He''s always like that, always looking nkly at the crowd. At first, I can''t really understand why he''s doing that, then I realized he wasn''tpletely looking nk at them. Yes, his body doesn''t move, but his eyes do, searching and trying that maybe..... maybe he can see her, he can find her by watching each of the people passing by in the busy streets not far from where he is. I sighed as I continued to watch him share his married life and all his mistakes with the gentlemen inside the room. After more than three years of working with him, I can say he changed so much, his personality, outlook on life, and most of all his behavior. Well, I know it wasn''t easy for him to be what he is right now, but it''s worth it. I remember the old him when I and Madi were just starting to work in hispany. He''s cold, distant, rude, and arrogant. And Madi told me one day, that the word ''thank you'' and ''please'' wasn''t listed in his vocabry. But that all changed when he offered her his deal, to be his wife. I noticed how he slowly transformed into a jolly and always smiling person. Madi loved him at that time, without him knowing her feelings. But she stayed with him until one day... he called us one by one and asking if she''s with us. Then I heard the shocking news, she finally left him. And after that, from a cheerful, always smiling, and jolly personality, he turned into a more lifeless, merciless, cold-hearted, and cunning person. He became the ''devil'' of the business industry not just in Chicago but throughout the state of Illinois taking all the opportunity he can get. And maybe due to the constant advice of his father, the screams, and the sermon of his mother and other rtives who visit him in his office, he has be what he is right now. A dedicated businessman and a husband dedicated to finding his wife and getting her back. "Oh, that''s so sad, my son." one of them patted him on the shoulder. "But you know what, nothing is perfect. Everybody makes mistakes, but the most important thing is that we correct them and stand for the right the next time." "I agree, Mr. Wilsons. I''m sure you can find her, and we hope she can give you a second chance." one of the young executives smiled at him. "Maybe you can show us her picture, so we can easily recognize her in case our paths cross." "Yeah, that''s a good idea." He opened again his phone and sent them one of Madi''s pictures. And then we started gathering our things as we congratte each other... one by one. When we were about to go to the hotel where we''re currently checking in, instead of going to the car, he ran to the street in front of the building. John and I exchanged a look but eventually followed him. "Mr. Wilsons, you still have one more meeting, Sir." I shouted behind him, but he just ignored me. So I have no choice but to run after him, while Jhon shook his head as he ran next to me. "He''s doing it again," he murmured. "You mean this street searching?" "Yeah. He has been doing this for almost two and a half years after he returned to his normalcy." "Well, we can''t me him," I said taking arge step to keep up with his pace. When we got in front of him, I was really catching my breath, but to my dismay, he ran again--- to the other side of the street. "Huh?" Iined while looking at Jhon with a tired look. He chuckled at me. "That''s what we called afternoon exercise." "Yeah, you mean two o''clock in the afternoon exercise." and he chuckled again. After ten or fifteen minutes... "I saw her, I''m sure of it!" Mr. Wilsons grumbled when he came back to us. "Sir---" "I can''t go wrong with it, Sandy!" That''s one of the things that changed in him. Ever since Madi left, he started calling me Sandy instead of Ms. Agur. I really don''t know what to say or how to react to what he said because honestly, I''m not sure if he really saw her earlier or he was just hallucinating. It''s not the first time that Jhon and I ran after him down the street just because he said he saw Madi, but in the end... he hired men to look and search for those streets he said he saw her. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Gabriel''s POV: When I could no longer stand the heat of the sun, I followed the two inside the car. I''m definitely going back here one of these days and set another team to start searching on every street of Denver because I can''t be wrong with it. It''s her, I know it''s her. Chapter 71: Releasing the pain Chapter 71: Releasing the pain Madi''s POV: "Good morning Aunt Madi!" I felt the sudden sinking to the side of my bed. It''s because of my seven years old niece, Sarah from my older sister Madison. She jumped up and hugged me on the back as Iy on my stomach. N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "Aunt Madi, wake up!" she climbed onto my back and started making me her horse. -''Oh my dearest God! Why did you give me such a lovable niece?''- "Sweetie, it''s still early!" Iined as I took one of the pillows to cover my face, but the silly kid took it away from me and repeatedly jumped on the bed. "No! It''s already eight o''clock, it''s actuallyte in the morning." "Oh God! Sarah, stop that! You might fall!" I opened my left eye. "No! I''m used to this, Aunt Madi. Come on, get up, we''re still going to the park, you promised me!" "Yeah, I know, but get down, sweetie, and y with your dolls in the living room, I''ll just follow you there," I said taking the pillow again but she took it out from my hands. "No! You''re lying!" "I''m not! I swear." "No! You always say that every morning, but you just go back to sleep again!" -''Oh, my God! I can no longer lie to this stubborn kid!''- "Hey, did you wake up your Auntie again?" I heard my sister''s voice at the door frame. "Because she promised me, mommy, we''re going to the park this morning!" "But it''s still early, baby." "No! Look!" she showed her pink barbie wristwatch. "It''s ten past eight in the morning, Mommy! Auntie has to get up!" I looked at my sister and gave her a yful re that she just chuckled at. "Why did you have to teach her how to read the time?" I asked her when she sat down on the edge of my bed. "I didn''t, Sis. She just learned it from her nanny." she chuckled again when I faked my cry. "Okay fine! We''re going to the park, but I won''t take a bath. It''s chilly!" And the kid''s eyes narrowed in disgust. "Yuck, Aunt Madi! You will stink!" "Of course not! Even if I don''t take a bath for three days, I won''t stink." of course it''s a joke to annoy the kid. "Ugh! You''re eww!" she crumpled her face as her mother and I bothughed at her reactions. "Come on, Sis. You know your niece won''t stop bothering you if you don''t get up." Madison kissed me on my forehead. It had been their gesture since I was a kid. "Let''s go, baby. Let your Auntie take a bath now, so you can go to the park together," she said holding out her hand to her daughter. "But Mom?" "Come on, Sarah. She will follow us downstairs, right Sis?" I smiled when she winked at me. And my stubborn niece didn''t protest again, she just followed her Mom out the door. I have no choice but to get up and go to the bathroom to take a bath because I''m sure my stubborn niece will go back in ten minutes to see if I fall asleep again. I sighed as I looked at myself in the bathroom mirror. It''s been three years and I haven''t noticed how time has flown by so quickly. I am currently staying with my sister and in her family''s house in Aurora, Colorado. I''ve never stepped again in Chicago in the past three years. I didn''t contact any of my friends there, except my three managers who I gave my authorization to decide and sign all the necessary documents and papers on my behalf. I cut off all my connections to anyone connected to my previous job, especially the person I avoided the most... Gabriel Wilsons. It''s been so hard for me to cope with my emotions during my first year of staying here. I cried almost every night and tried to forget every single memory of my painful past. But eventually, I learned how to deal with my pain and how to y with it over time. It''s not easy and I admit, there''s the asional night when I broke down and cried because I know I couldn''t go back and change what happened. I have learned to ept the fact that there''s someone I met and came into my life, but we''re not meant to be and no matter what I do, things will never change and will never be the same again. Honestly, I can''t say I ampletely healed andpletely forgetting the past, but at least now I know how to handle the pain. And maybe this pain that I''ve been through, could be my greatest strength in the future or when our paths cross again.. who would know, right? As they say.. healing begins the moment you ept the pain. Yes, I epted it all and now I can find myself smiling every time I remember those memories, the time I left his house, and the time I said goodbye to my dying heart. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ shback... ***Where do I start to leave my life alone? I guess I''m learning, only learning... learning the art of letting go.*** After hearing thest lyrics of the song, I let all the tearse out of my eyes. I let my heart bleed for thest moment. And Bryan needs to stop the car just to pull me into a hug. "You know what, if you don''t stop crying... I swear I''ll kill that fucking bastard, Madielyn!" he said, rubbing my back. "No, please, Bryan, just let me cry for now and I promise after this, I''m going to fix myself again." "You better be, Madi. You know how much we love you, right? The old man misses you, Sis. I hope this would be the right time to open your heart again for him. He loves you, and please let him exin. Maybe he can help you in some aspect of your life.. you didn''t know." I know he''s referring to our Dad, but I didn''t say anything. We stayed there for almost twenty minutes and used his private jet to fly and to Florida. My mom was so shocked when she saw me with my brother. She hugged me immediately and I cried on her shoulders. There were no questions asked at that moment. She also hugged Bryan and motioned us to sit in the living room for a while then walked with me to my room. She hugged me tightly as we sat in my bed. "Embrace the pain of letting go of the painful moments in your life, Madi. Because if you do, it will make you stronger, braver, and kinder. Cry and scream if you have to. It might hurt when you move on, but then it will heal eventually with each passing day." I pulled back from her embrace and looked directly into her eyes. "What do you mean, Mom?" I asked in tears but she wiped them with her hands and kissed my forehead. "I am your mother, Madielyn. Even when you don''t open your mouth, I know what you''re thinking. I know what things are bothering you in your mind and this." she smiled sadly and pointed to my chest where my heart is. "Y-You mean, you knew everything?" She sighed. "I told you, I am your mother." "But how?" I asked as I straightened up and wiped my face with both hands. I didn''t remember opening those things with her. "Let''s just say, you''ll never be this fine and strong woman if your mother doesn''t know how to make a move. I have connections, Madi. I know everything. Every single detail about you when you started living in Chicago." My eyes widened when I heard what she said. "What about our uhm...m-mar---" "Marriage?" I gasped when she mentioned the word I found difficult to utter, but I nodded. "The man who made you sign the marriage contract is one of my loyal friends." she shrugged. "B-But that''s Gabriel''swyer," I said with my eyes still wide open. "I know, but as I told you... I have connections Madielyn, and he''s one of my high school suitors." I bit my bottom lip. "But why you didn''t tell me?" "Well, it''s because I want you to experience everything, my baby. I know I can show you the whole world, I can go with you to any ce you want to see, but what I can''t is to show you the reality that''s hidden in every corner of it. And if this overwhelming breakdown is one of the processes, I will let you experience it. You know why... because that''s the thing that I didn''t learn when I was your age. I''m spineless and weak, unlike you." she cupped both of my cheeks. "Mom...what am I going to do?" "Release everything. You are stronger than the pain, my baby. Remember the old saying...''God''s n will always be greater and more beautiful than all your disappointments. Who would ever know, when you arepletely healed you will meet the right person who will bring back your smile and will pick up all the pieces of your broken heart." "Mommy...." I hugged her tightly. There are no arms in this world that can everpare to the warmth thates from your mother''s embrace. "Come on, what''s your motto again in life? You are who?" I smiled with tears but proudly salute my hand while stating my old line. "I am Madi! The ever-beautiful, confident, and STRONG Madi!" "That''s my girl." She wiped my tears again and pulled me into her warm embrace. We stayed in Florida for two days and then Bryan came with me to face the first man I loved in my life, our Dad. Chapter 72: Surviving the pain Chapter 72: Surviving the pain The moment I walked through the huge ck wooden door, I saw my Dad almost running down the stairs just toe with me. "Maiden! My baby!" Tears flow down my eyes as soon as I felt his embrace. Then I realized, I can never be mad at this man who had a great contribution to who I have be right now. He''s crying when he pulled back, even his wife, Chesca who was standing behind him. She''s been a good wife to him and still epted him despite what he did. "Daddy..." I hugged him again. I missed him. I missed him so much. I wish I had him beside me during those cruel times. But it''s in the past, at least we still have time to be with each other. "How are you, Maiden?" he wiped my tears using the hem of his shirt. "Daddy?" "Dad?" "Honey?" Bryan, Chesca and I, all protested in unison, but it''s toote. He already wiped my tears. Who will use the hem of his shirt to wipe the tears of his daughter at the age of twenty-six? Well, only my Dad, and I felt like a seven-year-old again. "What? I just wiped my baby''s tears." He said with a shrug. The mother and son just shook their heads, as I bit my bottom lip to control myughter. "Madi," Chesca also pulled me into a motherly hug and I hugged her back. "Okay, let''s go to your room, baby. Just put your things in there and let''s go upstairs." he put his arm around my shoulders. "Honey, I''ll show my baby her room, is it okay if we just follow to the dining room later?" "Sure, honey." Dad showed me my temporary room as he said, he''s still renovating my room. For me, it doesn''t matter where I sleep, as long as I have a bed to sleep in at night. When we entered, I walked immediately to therge ss window of the room. "How are you, Maiden?" I turned around to see him sitting on the edge of the bed. "I''m fine, Dad." "You''re not. Bryan told on the phone." I sighed, biting my lip, I walked over to him and sat down next to him. "I''m not really fine, Dad. I''m broken." I chuckled at the end of my sentence. He didn''t say anything but he held my left hand and I heard him let out a loud sigh. "I''m sorry, baby." My head snapped at him. "No Dad! It''s not you! I mean, it''s not your fault!'' "I know, baby. I''m apologizing for all my shorings and failures in being your father. I know that with those past years, you''re ming me for what happened to me and your Mom. But believe me, Maiden. I can''t control those things back then. Your Mom was my first love before I married your Aunt Chesca. And that love I had for your mother, I hurt them both and I made a big mistake." "So, you''re telling me I''m your biggest mistake?" "No! Of course, not! That''s not what I mean!" he sighed. "What I mean is that if I were a strong as you were before, maybe I could avoid those unwanted things that happened." "Daddy, it''s okay, it''s in the past. Honestly, I''m thankful that those things happened and turned into this, in its ce right now. Because I could never be who I am now if those things didn''t happen." I smiled at him. "How''s your heart?" he asked suddenly and a bitter smile crept into my lips. "Well, still beating in my chest." I shrugged. "Can you share even half of that baggage you have inside with your old Dad?" Iughed again with the term ''old'' he used. "Dad, you''re like Mom, you''re also using the word ''old'' to describe yourself!" "But I am. Look at me!" "Yeah, but you don''t have to say it. I can see it clearly!" Iined and now it''s his turn tough at me. I sighed loudly before I decided to tell him everything. I started from the very beginning, from Gabriel being my boss, the deal, my stupidity, his n with his ex-girlfriend, from our marriage, and to what I really felt for him. But the reaction I got from him was exactly the opposite I got from my Mom when we talked about what happened. "That fucking idiot! I''m going to kill that motherfucker for hurting you!" My eyes widened as I gasped when he got up quickly with balled fists and clenched jaws. "Dad? That''s why I let him go." I tried to hug him but when I saw the rage in his eyes I was rooted in where I was. "Madielyn Davis! You married a fucking fool and an idiot bastard! And you''re really the one who let him go? Huh!" "Dad, calm down!" And not after a minute, Bryan and his mother entered the room. "What''s going on here, honey? We heard your screams downstairs." "Dad, what''s this?" Bryan pulled me into a quick hug before pulling me protectively behind him when he saw Dad in his balled fists. "Your sister married a fucking idiot! He got his ex-girlfriend pregnant while he''s married to your sister!" N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "What?" Chesca and Bryan asked in unison. I noticed that they loved to ask me in a group. "What the hell, Madielyn? Is it true --- you''re married? You didn''t tell me about this thing when we are in Chicago!" Bryan held me on both shoulders and I nodded. "That fucking man! Was that why you''re crying so hard?" "Bryan, call our men! Tell them to report in front of me immediately!" -''Oh God!''- I started to panic when I heard the word ''men''. My Mom once told me that my father has his own private army... or should I say he''s a mafia boss. "No!" I yelled at them when I saw my brother gets his phone. "You don''t understand! I love him!" I cried in tears. "You still love him despite what he did to you?" Dad asked me with his narrowed eyes. I gulped and looked him directly in his eyes. "Yes! I love him. I still love him Dad as I loved you, despite everything that happened and regardless of what you did." And they all turned into silent. "Maiden..." he tried to reach me but I took a step back in tears. "Tell me, Dad, how can I easily unlove the man who gave me feelings that I have never felt before? How can you easily unlove and forget your first love? Answer me, Dad?" I know every single word I said was like a d¨¦j¨¤ vu to his ears. "Maiden.." I bit my lip. I don''t want to open these things but I have no choice. I love Gabriel so much that I can''t even imagine him being hurt. "He offered me a deal as I told you, and I epted it. So, if there''s anyone you should me for it, it''s me and no one else but me! I fell in love with him, even though I know it''s impossible for him to love me back. But I was such a fool and naive with my feelings, so I stayed with him! He didn''t do anything against the deal. He didn''t even force me to do anything behind that fucking deal! He just showed me care, his only fault was that he''s too blinded by his revenge n that he didn''t notice that his ''fake wife'' was already falling in love with him." I cried and knelt in front of them, but Bryan also knelt next to me and pulled me into a hug. "I''m sorry, Sis." he kissed my hair and sat me on the edge of the bed. Then I felt a pair of familiar arms around me and I knew instantly, it''s my Dad. He rubbed my back as he repeatedly saying his sorry. I stayed with them for almost a month, until I decided to visit my sister in Aurora, Colorado. And thanks to God, her reaction was opposite from the two boys but the same with my Mom''s reaction. I also exined the two sides of our story, and the only thing she didn''t like was that Gabriel was a fool and a thousand idiots. I met her husband, Joey and my only niece Sarah Faye Madrigal. She asked me to stay with them and I epted it. I stayed with them for almost six months. Six months of crying every night and every time I remember him.. six months of being down, broken-hearted. But eventually, as time went by, God didn''t let me stay in that state. One day, when I was watching a newscast on the TV, the name ''Be Strong'' Housing Charity caught my attention. It''s a charity institution for brain cancer patients. It''s for children from the age of three to ten. And with that name, I learned to start my life again. I donated my ie from one of my restaurants to that charity. I also applied as one of their volunteers to help those children who were so strong to face that kind of challenge in their life despite their young age. Each of them became my inspiration to move on and fight the pain. Until I started my new business, a coffee shop near the institution with the help of my newfound friend and business partner, Martin. We now have two branches in the city of Aurora and we''re also nning to have a new branch in Colorado''s capital city... Denver. End of shback... Chapter 73: Chapter 73: Gabriel''s POV: "Where are you going this time?" Nancy asked me when she saw me pulling my suitcase into the living room. She was seated on the couch with her arms crossed and a raising eyebrow. "Colorado." I simply answered as I checked the time from my wristwatch. I was just waiting for Jhon to get the car. "And what are you going to do in Colorado? I thought your meeting there was over?" "I saw Madi in Denver." Sheughed at me. "Again? You''ve seen her--- again!" She emphasized thest word. "That''s true. I saw her pass in front of the building while we were in a meeting." "Really? That''s exactly what you told me thest time you went from New York and Texas because you also said you saw Madi there." she has an amused grin on her face. "This time it''s real, Nancy! I can''t go wrong with what I saw. It''s her!" "Oh, yeah, okay." she shrugged. "Anyway, I hope you really find her this time, brother." she stood up and walked over to me. "You''ve really changed a lot. I think it''s better that Madi left you." I red at her. "Because you improved your personality and you turned into this better man and take note.... a husband dedicated to finding his TOTGA." she patted me on the shoulder. I frowned. "TOTGA?" "Yup, TOTGA! The one that got away!" I smiled and ruffled her hair. "Oh, gosh! My hair, Gabriel!" Sheined but I justughed at her. "I''ve already learned from that experience Nancy, and I don''t want it to happen again." "What if she''s now in a rtionship or she''s already married?" Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org. "No! She can''t be! I won''t allow it, she''s mine! And by hook or by crook, this time I''m going make her mine!" she smiled proudly when she heard too much dedication from my voice. "Yeah---" "Mr. Wilsons, your car is ready, Sir," said Jhon at the front door, and we both turned to him. "As I was saying... if there''s one thing that hasn''t changed in you, it is that you''re still selfish!" I chuckled when she rolled her eyes. "I have to go," I said hugging her. "Yeah, take care of yourself and if what you said were true, take my sister-inw back!" "I will!" I smirked before I turned my way towards the front door. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Madi''s POV: "Hi, babe." I put down my book on the table and arched my eyebrow when Martin sat down across my chair. It''s ten o''clock on a Saturday morning. "Are you ready for tomorrow?" he asked me grinning. He''s referring to our trip to Denver tomorrow. We will personally check the new location for the new branch of our coffee shop. "Yeah. I''m actually excited about it." I answered smiling. "When are you going back to Chicago?" I was suddenly struck in my seat with his question. "Uhm... I don''t know, maybe if I have really important things to do in my restaurants." I shrugged. "What about you, when are you going back to Chicago?" I smiled and sent him back his question. Well, we almost have the same experience.. the only difference was that I am married and he''s not. The woman he loved before was also in someone else''s arm when he came to the view. We shared each other''s story and he called Chicago a nd of the wounded''. "Well, if you''ve decided to go back, I''ll go with you. I want to see your business there." "Sure," And he took the book out of my hand. "We both left half of our hearts in Chicago and brought here the other half. We always say we''ve both been broken-hearted before, but you know what I found out?" "What?" "We are not really broken-hearted even if only have the other half of our hearts..." I frowned as I got confused with what he was saying, but when I noticed the cheeky grin on his lips, I was suddenly enlightened. "I knew it!" I hissed, taking my hands out of his grip. "You only have half of your heart and same with mine, but if we put them together... it''s gonna be a whole heart again!" he grinned and winked at me. I chuckled as I punched his arm. "Why? I can be your husband if you want." he wiggled his eyebrows. I know this it''s one of his jokes again. "Are you now proposing to me, babe?" I yed with him. "Why not, if you agree? I''m sure I am more handsome and probably better than your ex-husband," he stated proudly with a huge grin. I chuckled again and just shook my head. "Well, honestly, I''m happy for both of us, Madi." He said seriously after a while. "At least we can now laugh and enjoy our freedom. We are the real survivors." "Yeah. Congrattions to both of us! Give me a high five!" I asked bringing back the light mood. "By the way, where will I pick you up tomorrow? At your apartment or your sister''s house?" "My sister''s house." "Okay, be ready by seven." "Seven? But it''s too early! Can we just go around nine or ten in the morning?" "No." He said shaking his head. "If you''re not ready around seven tomorrow... hmm... you know what Sarah can do to you," he smirked. "I hate you!" I said ring at him. Martin is actually close to my sister''s family because he is Joey''s cousin. And Joey is my sister''s husband. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ "I missed walking. It''s kinda rxing, you know." "Yeah, me too," I said sipping from the cup of my choctette while walking. We have finished checking the area where we will put our new branch of ''Survivor Coffee shop''. It''s in the lobby of amercial building in downtown Denver. We decided to walk and explore some streets near the area so we could familiarize ourselves with the ce and rx at the same time. I wasughing at his silly jokes when I suddenly noticed a man following behind us. I ignored him at first, but at our every stop, the man also stopped walking, so I decided to secretly tell Martin. And because Martin being Martin, he doesn''t even feel bothered. He put his arm on my shoulders and we stopped walking. "Why did we stop?" I whispered-asked but he just smirked. "I''m sure he was sent by someone who wanted every detail of my life or yours." I gulped when I heard what he said. Who between the two of us is this man spying with? But then I smiled when my mother came across my mind. And from a simple smile, it turned into augh. "Why are youughing?" he asked me confused. "I already have an idea who sent that man," I whispered in his ear. "Who?" "My Mom." "What? But why?" "Because she wants to check on me from time to time." And a devilish smirk formed on his lips. "I''m sure that man has a hidden camera." "Maybe-----huh!" I gasped as he pulled me by my waist and pressed his forehead to mine. "Do you know the eskimo kiss?" I smiled at his idea. "Yeah." "Then.. let''s do the eskimo in one... two... three..." We brought the tips of our noses together and rubbed them against each other. We both have huge grins on our faces while doing that silly idea. Everyone who passed in front of us, either give us a surprised look or a p. But we know those people behind us will think that we''re kissing in the middle of the street. He even cupped both my cheeks and tilted his face to give the man a perfect view from behind me. "When I say run... we will run," he said while our noses were still connected. "Huh?" "I''ll count from one to three, okay?" I just found myself nodding. "Okay..one.. two... three.. run!" He took my hand and we started running towards the bunches of people currently passing the street. We were bothughing and gasping for air as we run away from the man who tried to follow us "Let''s see what your Mom''s reaction would be," he said when we reached his car. "Wow! I enjoyed this Martin!" I said fastening my seat belt while still catching my breath. "Which one did you enjoy the most? The fact that we ran away from that man or because you got an eskimo kiss from me?" he asked wiggling his eyebrows as he started the engine. "Tss! In your dreams!" And we bothughed together. We both had no idea that the man following behind us earlier wasn''t sent by my mother, but by my husband... ex-husband. Chapter 74: And they meet again Chapter 74: And they meet again Gabriel''s POV: By the moment I got to the hotel I am currently checking in, I received a call from one of my newly hired men to look for my wife in all corners of Denver, Colorado. I answered his call and a huge smile crept onto my lips. I was right. She was the woman I saw from the second floor of the Am-Phil buildingst week. I can''t even form a single word due to the excitement that has filled me inside. And there were so many things and ns excitedly dancing in my mind when I heard the positive news. Finally, after three years of searching and waiting, I will be able to see her again. But the time I ended the call and checked the photos he had sent to my inbox, my knees buckled and suddenly I sat down on the bed. I felt mixed feelings of jealousy, regret for everything I did before and anger at myself right at that moment. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. They''re her pictures... three of them were taken while she walks andughs with a man next to her. They looked so happy in the photos. And the rest were taken while they were kissing in the middle of the streets. A painful, bitterugh escaped from my throat as I brushed my hair. I screamed out loud as the evidence of her happiness with someone else almost broke my heart. I called my man again with rage surging through my veins. -''She can''t be with another man. I''ll do everything in my power to get her back! Even if I need to pull some strings and y dirty tricks, I won''t hesitate to do it just to make her mine, again!" "Mr. Wilsons-----" "Did you get her address, and did you get any information about her? Her job, the name of this fucking man? How dare he kissed what''s mine?" I asked him through gritted teeth and clenched jaws. "I''m sorry, Sir. But I think they saw me because they ran after they kissing----" "What the fuck! Are you a fucking idiot? It''s just a simple job and you can''t do it right! Have you shown yourself?" "No, Sir. I''m sorry. I did my------" "I don''t fucking care what you did! You''re fired!" I ended the call and didn''t wait for him to respond. "Fuck! I hired another fucking idiot!" I threw the phone on the bed and massaged my throbbing temples. If none of them can give me a positive answer, I''ll do it myself. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ It''s already eleven in the evening, but I''m still driving in the busy and non-sleeping city of Denver. I can''t feel any exhaustion even at thiste hour, knowing she can be on any street or any corner of this City. I can''t give up on this moment, because I''ve been waiting for this moment for thest three years of my life. "Sir, I think it''s gettingte. Maybe we should go back to the hotel and continue our search tomorrow. We can search again all the avenues. You haven''t had any rest since this morning, Sir." I nced at Jhon in the rearview mirror. He''s currently sitting in the back seat. "No. I can''t stop right now Jhon. What if she''s just in one of the streets walking, and I haven''t noticed earlier?" "But sir, it''s already half-past eleven in the evening. I don''t think Ms. Madi is still up at thiste hour. As I remember correctly, she hates morning but it wasn''t her habit to bete to bed either. Well, maybe if she changed that after these three years, but old habits are hard to die." I chuckled shaking my head as I continue to drive. Almost all of them including our maids know her habits and mannerisms. While I, her ''husband'', the only thing I know about her is my feelings for her, andtely her favorite perfume. I don''t even know her favorite flower or what color she likes the most. But after driving for several minutes and a few streets, I have already followed Jhon''s suggestion. We went back to the hotel, but I set an rm to get up early at six tomorrow morning. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Madi''s POV: Martin and I continued our daily routine in the coffee shop. We have different tasks. He''s in charge of preparing different types of coffee while I''m the one who bakes the cakes and pastries. Well, thanks to my old but lovable mother for this idea. Although we have six employees in the shop, we want it to be personally made by our golden hands. "Babe, I''ll just take my car to the auto repair shop. I''ll be back in an hour." Martin said while I was busy checking out the cake disys from the ss cab. "Huh? Why... what happened to your car?" I asked not bothering to look at him. "There''s a problem with the air conditioning, it doesn''t work even if I put it on maximum." "Ahh...." I said nodding. "Well, I think you don''t really need to take it to the auto shop," I smirked but I covered my face. "And why?" I heard him ask. "Because I already know what you need and it''s the best solution to solve your problem with that car of yours." "Wow, really? Don''t tell me you''re also into fixing car''s air conditioning?" he asked with amusement evident in his voice. "Nope." I said popping the ''p''. "Tsk.tsk.tsk. You only need one lighter." "Lighter? As in lighter... the thing that used to lit cigarettes?" "Uhuh! If you used a lighter to light your car, it will create fire!" "Uhuh... and?" "And if it started to create fire.. your car will explode... boom! Problem solved! No air conditioning problems anymore, no car engines problem, no car problems and you have no problems at all!" "Nice! Nice problem solution! Tsk.Tsk.Tsk." He saidughing, scratching the back of his head. "Thanks for the wonderful advice! You''re the best woman I have ever met!" "Oh, no problem! Such a small thing! What are friends are for, right?" And I started tough at his reaction. "Such a silly woman!" he shook his head. "I have to go, I''ll be back in an hour. Bye." he kissed the top of my head. "Bye..." When I saw him exited the shop, I went back to what I was doing earlier. I heard the sounds of the chimes indicating that there was a new customer who had entered the shop, but because it hasn''t even been a minute after Martin left, so I thought it was still him and he just forgot something. I heard his footsteps stopped in front of the ss cab, but because I was too busy counting the disy inside, I just asked him if he really forgets something without bothering to look at him. "Did you forget something, babe? What is it this time?" I asked smiling and emphasizing the word ''babe'' aloud. "Babe! Nice endearment!" The pen I was holding was suddenly dropped on the floor when I heard that voice. I gulped as my heart started to beat faster in my chest. It''s almost deafening and I''m not sure if it''s just a hearing hallucination or I really heard it in front of me. I took a deep breath before showing off my smile despite the loud pounding in my chest. I stood up to greet the customer. "Good morning. What''s your order---" -''Gabriel Wilsons.''- My voice stopped in mid-air when I confirmed the whispers of those butterflies in my stomach. I swallowed the sudden feeling of d¨¦j¨¤ vu. Because it''s the same feeling I felt when I realized that I love this man three years ago. I let out the heavy breath that got stuck in my throat and professionally asked him. The way a salesperson should greet his or her customer. "Good morning. May I know what your order is, Mr. Wilsons?" I asked him in my sweetest smile. The smile I always give to every customer every day. "Madi.." but he just stared at me nkly. And I admit, a strange feeling enveloped my whole body when I looked into his eyes. He''s still handsome and good-looking as ever... no.. he looked matured, manly and more handsome today than before... even after three years. Maturity suits him well. The Greek God himself, the one and only Gabriel Wilsons. The same man who captured my heart and can melt system just by his gaze. "Hi, can I take your order, Sir?" I asked him again in a professional tone. And suddenly his nk face turned into a hard and serious expression, not to mention cold... the old himself. "How are you, Madi?" he asked in a cold tone that sent shivers down my spine. His voice. "It''s Ms. Davis to you, Sir." I smiled. But he smirked. "Really, Ms. Davis?" He looked at me intently, but I didn''t flinch. I''ve done this before so it''s impossible not to do it again. "Okay. Just give me your usual ck coffee. The one you always give me in the office." "Oh... I''m sorry, Sir. But it''s been three years, I already forgot how to make that coffee. But if you want, we have lots of choices on the menu. Here... you can choose whatever that suits your taste." I said giving him the menu. I didn''t miss how he clenched and unclenched his jaws before epting the menu. -I''m sorry my poor heart. But it''s for the best. I don''t want to get involved with him again. Maybe he''s now married and father of two or three children.''- "Okay. Just give me your best seller!" he said without taking his eyes off me. He didn''t even nce at the menu. "Okay, Sir. You can find your table, and we will deliver your coffee in a minute. Any additional order, Sir? Cake.. sandwich? We have avocado toast with poached eggs, it''s our best seller-----" "Just give me whatever you think is the best for my coffee, ''Ms. Davis''." he cut me off and emphasized myst name. "Okay Sir, in a minute----" but again, he didn''t let me finish as he already turned his back on me. -''Huh! Fucking rude! So you still haven''t changed! Rude and arrogant!''- I silently muttered as I threw daggers at his back. I prepared his coffee with the best seller avocado toast in grain bread with a poached egg on top. I don''t know how many times I let out a heavy breath just to calm my nerves. The fast pounding of my heart earlier was now with slight irritation. The customers are now starting to walk into the shop, and our three morning employees are all busy attending to their customers, so I have no choice but to give the rude Greek God his order. I was about to carry the food tray when suddenly I heard the loud and cheerful voice of my partner, Martin... from the shop''s entrance. "Babe! I''m back!" And suddenly all eyes turned to him, including the ring eyes of Gabriel. But of course, except for our three employees who know how bubbly Martin is. "I told you, babe. I''ll be back in an hour, but I made it less than thirty minutes. What can you say about that?" He asked me out loud with a huge grin on his face as he walked over to where I was. He even kissed me on the temple when he finally reached in front of me. "Whose coffee is this, babe? Let me help you." And he took the tray from my hand. I smiled and pointed to the tiger-looking Gabriel who''s watching our interaction intently. "Okay, just stay here, my queen and your king will now take in charge." he winked at me and I chuckled along with the customers who saw what he did. "Thanks, babe," I said grinning and yfully pinched the bridge of his nose. After that, I turned my back and let him serve Gabriel''s order. And since I was fast to get inside, I missed the hard and furious gaze of my ex-husband. Chapter 75: Still connected Chapter 75: Still connected "Are you sure you don''t need me toe with you?" Martin asked me for the third time since this morning about my appointment at the Chicago city hall. We flew together yesterday because I need to sign some important documents that were needed to renew the business permit and operating agreement of my restaurant. He insisted oning with me to meet my friends and to finally see my outlets. And I also have to file the documents myself because Noelle has an important schedule for today. "Yup, don''t worry. I''m used to this." I answered, taking my bag and my phone from the couch. "Okay. Take care of yourself, babe. Just call me if you need some support or if your ex-husband surprised you again." I chuckled when he flexed his two biceps in front of me. "I''m serious! I can kick him in his balls!" I end up coughing afterughing so hard at his one-of-a-kind jokes. "Okay, fine. But do the first thing you really wanted to do or go to the ce and person you wanted to visit." I teased him with a raised eyebrow and smirk on my lips. "Huh! What are you talking about?" he said pretending to be surprised turned his back on me. I shook my head with a smile and followed him into the kitchen. "Ohh... Martin-babe, do you really think I didn''t know the real reason you came back to Chicago with me? Come on, Martin!" "Fine! But I''m serious, Madi, f you need help, don''t hesitate to call me or send me a message, okay?" "Okay, thanks, babe." I winked at him. He pulled me into a hug and kissed my forehead. "Take care." "Yup... I will. Bye." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I can''t help but take a deep breath the moment I got out of the cab and the Chicago city hall building came into my sight. It''s been three years since thest time I entered that building, and that was when we registered our marriage in the civil registry. After how many minutes I spent contemting my thoughts, I decided to enter the building and headed to the department where I was going. Thirty minutester... "Ma''am, I''m sorry but the name in your ID doesn''t match with the name listed on our system." I frowned as I looked directly at thedy inside the booth. "I - I''m sorry? What do you mean my ID name doesn''t match in your system?" "Yes, Ma''am. Are you sure you''re still with the name Davis?" I was taken aback by her question. "Y-Yes. I don''t remember changing my name in thest three years." That''s true because even after we got married I didn''t change my status nor did I change myst name into Wilsons, so that means I am still Davis in their system. "Can you please check it again? I have other IDs here, you can check the details if you want." I said giving her my other IDs. But after three minutes, she gave them back to me including all the papers I had submitted to her earlier. "I''m really sorry Ma''am, but you''re no longer listed as Davis on our system." "W-What?" "We can''t process your documents with the IDs you have right now. But if you want Ma''am, you can go back at any time and present your documents under the name Wilsons." My jaws dropped with the name she mentioned. -''This is impossible!''- "W-What did you say.. W-Wilsons?" I was sweating all of a sudden. "Yes Ma''am, Wilsons. You''re still registered as Madielyn Davis-Wilsons.." "A-Are you sure-----" I didn''t finish my question when she turned her attention back to theputer screen and showed me the details listed on it. And it''s true! I am Madielyn Davis-Wilsons on the screen. "H-How did this happen? It''s so impossible, miss! I told you, I haven''t changed any of my personal information in the past three years!" "I''m sorry Ma''am, but I can no longer answer your questions. As indicated in our data, you''re still married to Mr. Gabriel Wilsons and you''re---" "What?" my eyes widened like saucers. "We''re no longer married! I already filed for divorce three years ago!" my voice came loud that caught the attention of some people around me. "Ma''am, are you sure you filed your papers? Because if you''re sure you do, it will appear in our system. Either you have filed them yourself or you just passed them to yourwyer." "No... to my ex-husband!" "Hmm... okay. If that is so, are you sure that your husband, I mean your ex-husband signed the papers and filed them in court before? Because ording to our records, you''re married to him three years ago---" "So you mean to say I - I''m still...Uhm..." "You''re still married to him, Ms. Davis... no...Mrs. Wilsons." she was the one who finished what I wanted to say. -''Fucking shit!''- I cursed silently as I brushed my hair with my fingers in a frustrated way. I formed my fists as tears of irritations formed around my eyes. And guess what, I just found myselfughing in front of them. All these years, I thought I had already escaped from him and for being tied to his name, but I was wrong. Because even after everything that has happened, after three years of running away from what I felt for him, I''m still connected to him! And then suddenly I remember what he said, the time he went to the coffee shop... ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ shback... "So, you''re just staying here after all these years." I gasped when I heard Gabriel''s voice behind me. I was currently in the kitchen of the shop and preparing the ingredients for the cakes I was about to bake. I turned around to see him standing a few feet away from me with both hands in his pockets and wearing his dominant and serious aura. I can smell the very familiar cologne he used three years ago. And I gulped before deciding to wear my professional smile. "Mr. Wilsons. I''m sorry but this is a restricted area, exclusively for employees only." "I know." he shrugged. "I can go out if you talk to me outside." My smile died but I took a deep breath and looked directly at him. "I don''t think we have anything to talk about----" "You have a lot of exining to do, Madi!" he cut me off with his hard tone and started taking a step forward closer to me, but I also started taking a step back. "I don''t owe you an exnation, Mr. Wilsons." "Are you sure of that? Because as far as I remember, you left me without any exnation three years ago!" I swallowed hard when my back hit the hard wall behind me. He stopped a few inches away from my body. I can feel the fast pounding of my heart inside my chest. It was bad enough that I can smell his cologne but the warmth of his body with our proximity made me nauseous. "I left you a note----" "Yes, you left me a note! But do you think your note would exin everything?" "Gabriel!" sudden shivers ran down my spine when I put my palms on his chest as he tried to invade my personal space and suffocate me on the wall. N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "Oh, so you still know how to call me by my name!" he smirked when I looked at him in the eye. "What do you want this time? If you''re going to offer me a new deal, I''m sorry but I''m done dealing with you!" I tried to push him but he didn''t even move a bit. "What if I told you this time, I am about to offer you a deal of forever---" "Babe! Are you done with the----oh!" I felt relieved when Martin suddenly walked into the kitchen. And because Gabriel turned his head on him, I used it as an opportunity to push him as he was still distracted by Martin''s sudden presence. "Martin." I walked over to him and he put his hand over my shoulders. "What''s going on here, babe?" he looked at me before turning his attention to Gabriel. "Who are you and what are you doing here in our private kitchen?" he asked him with a frown. But Gabriel just ignored him as his eyes remained focused on me and Martin''s hand around my shoulders. I gulped when I noticed him clenched his jaws and balled his fists. "Sir, I''m asking you. What are you doing here?" Martin asked him again. Then Gabriel turned to him with a smirk on his lips. "Do you know who I am?" he asked Martin. "Should I have to?" -''Oh no.''- my eyes widened when Martin asked him back with the same level of tone. "So, you don''t know me." "Well, actually I don''t care who you are. What I need to know is what are you doing here in our private kitchen with my ''wife''?" My jaws dropped as my eyes doubled their size with Martin''sst word. "What? Your wife?" but Gabriel justughed at him sarcastically. "Okay, so you don''t believe me, I see." I looked at Martin''s face just to find him in his game mood again. And a hidden smile crept onto my lips but I managed to hide it by biting hard my bottom lip. "Well, she''s my girlfriend. And I''m going to propose to her at the end of this month. So, I think there''s nothing wrong with me calling her my ''wife'', right babe?" he kissed my forehead and turned to Gabriel raising his eyebrow. But I admit, I felt nervous about Gabriel''s reactions after Martin stated that I am his girlfriend and kissed me in front of him. His hazel brown eyes turned to a darker shade as his face flushed with rage. If I didn''t know that kind of reaction from him, maybe I''ll justugh at Martin''s silly statements. We stood there in silence staring at each other, except Martin who''s just rxed and ying cool next to me. And I held my breath when Gabriel headed for the kitchen door but stopped right in front of me. "One day, you''re going to look for me, Madi. You wille to me and ask me questions that no one will give you the right and exact answers, except me." He said with a familiar devilish smirk written on his lips. And I gulped when he cupped my face in a very quick motion. "But always remember, there are only two ces where you can find me. I''ll be waiting," he finally said before turning his back on us. And I let out those heavy breaths that I didn''t know I was holding when he''s still in front of me. "Whoah! That was intense!" Martin also let out a sigh. "Huh?" I asked him confused with what he said. "Intense! That was so intense facing your ex-husband!" I blinked repeatedly as my mouth hung open. "Y-You know him?" And he chuckled at me."Madi! Have you forgotten, babe?" "Forgotten what?" "That I was born and lived in Chicago before. Who doesn''t know the famous Gabriel Wilsons, who owned almost 60% of the business state in Chicago? Come on, Madi!" "But why didn''t you tell me you knew him earlier?" "Ops! wrong question babe! Why didn''t YOU tell me, that your ex-husband was the famous ''devil'' of the business industry across the state of Illinois?" "I - I thought you knew?" "Yeah, I just found out earlier when I came back from the repair shop." he shrugged and walked over to the fridge we have in the kitchen and took the pitcher of apple juice from inside. "But how did you know that he''s my ex-husband?" I asked him as I handed him a ss I got from the drawer. "It''s so simple, babe. Based on his intense stares at you and the tiger-look, I got from him when I called you ''babe'' and kissed you inside the shop earlier." he suddenly chuckled. "It''s priceless, Madi! I swear if his looks could kill, you''re going to dig six feet under the ground just to see me again," he added laughing as he shook his head. And I just found myselfughing with him. I am so thankful that God gave me friends like Martin and some of my friends before. That despite fate has given me pain and countless heartbreaks, God has still blessed me with friends like them. Friends who remained friends and stayed beside me, loyal and true people after all that has happened. Chapter 76: Facing him again Chapter 76: Facing him again Madi''s POV: "I couldn''t get a new business permit!" I said annoyed, throwing my bag on the couch. "But why? You have alreadypleted all the necessary documents. Have you forgotten something... your Id?" Noelle asked and sat down next to me. "Huh! That fucking Id!" I cursed loudly and sighed harshly. "Why? What happened with your Ids?" "My name didn''t match with the name listed in their system! Because ording to them, I''m married to Gabriel and still married until now!" "Gosh! How does that happen? I thought you already gave him the divorce papers before? What happened?" "I don''t know. All my Ids'' name is Davis! And didn''t even change myst name to Wilsons'' even though I was married to him! That''s why I was so shocked when they told me they can''t process my papers unless I present them an ID with a Wilsons name on it!" I brushed my hair out of frustration "I''m so annoyed right now and I want to kill! I want to kill that annoying Gabriel Wilsons! Argh! This is the first time I can''t process my papers in just one day and that I have to go back to present an Id which I don''t have! My goodness!" I sighed and waited for her to say anything but I heard none, so I looked at her only to find her grinning. "And what''s with that grin?" "Nothing!" she shrugged. "I just remember three years ago, you came here crying your heart out because you''re in pain and no matter what we tell you to leave Gabriel, you''re just saying ''you can''t'' because you love him. But look at you now! You''re annoyed and you can kill him just by your sharp words! Tsk.Tsk.Tsk. I''m proud of you, Madi." she said seriously. I smiled as I shifted my seat next to her and hugged her tightly. "Thank you, Noelle," I said as my arms wrapped around her neck. "For what?" she asked, patting my back. "For being my friend, my supporter and for everything." "Of course. What are friends are for?" and I hugged her more. "By the way, what''s your n right now? What are you going to do with your ''Not-ex-husband''?" "Huh! I''ll cut his balls off!" I said firmly and she chuckled at me. "Wow! Look what heartbreak did to you! Are you still the Madi, the naive and ''virgin'' friend of mine?" I yfully red at her. "Of course! Silly!" "Seriously, what are you nning to do? You don''t have an Id with Wilsons as ast name. Is there any other way?" "Yeah, talk to the ''devil'' and make him sign an authorization letter, that Madielyn Davis and Madielyn Wilsons are just the same!" I emphasized the word devil just to earn anotherugh from her. "Nice! I really like the new version of you! Bolder and fiercer! Keep it up!" "Of course, I''ve learned my lesson!" I proudly stated. "Tsk.Tsk.Tsk. Yeah, I believe you, my friend. What did you always call him before----handsome Greek God? But time had changed because he''s now a ''devil'' to you...your ''handsome devil. Amen!" I can''t help butugh and punch her in the arm. "Can you please stopparing things before and things now? My God, Noelle!" "I''m just happy, you know." she rolled her eyes at me. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Gabriel''s POV: N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "Mica, is there anyone looking for me or wants to talk to me?" "No, Sir." "Even calls?" "Nothing Sir. Well, phone calls from clients and investors." "Oh, not that one. Just call me immediately if there''s someone who wants to talk to me personally, okay?" "Sir, may I ask if it''s a man or a woman?" "A woman." "Okay Sir, copy." I called my PA, just to check if Madi had finally decided to show up and talk to me. I don''t know how many times I called Mica just to ask the same question since yesterday. Because I finally received a call from my trusted friend inside the Chicago City hall. And she said, there was ady named Madielyn Davis who came in yesterday. I couldn''t help but smile and feel excited to know what her reaction was after knowing the truth that she''s still married to me. When she left the divorce papers three years ago, I didn''t sign them and just threw them in the trash. And now that I''ve seen her again, I can''t just sit here, rx and do nothing. I want to win her back and be with me forever. I did a personal investigation into her business, and when they should submit and process some legal documents. And I used it to have here to me personally and talk to me about our marriage. Well, I just pulled some strings and put some money into the ount of this trusted friend of mine and bingo! Now I can get what I want. I asked them to change Madi''sst name to Wilsons. "Mr. Wilsons..." There''s a knock on the door and Sandy came into my view. "Sandy." "Sir, your meeting with the board members is about to start in ten minutes. The board room is now ready, Sir." "Thank you, Sandy." She nodded and smiled at me. "You''re wee, Sir," she said before exiting the door again. I let her handle my schedule because my PA is still under her training. I have prepared some documents that were needed for the meeting. Little did I know that the woman I''ve been waiting to arrive since yesterday is now making her way to thepany. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Madi''s POV: -''Whooh! This is it, Madi! You can do it!''- I tried to calm myself down or should I say my heart when I stopped at the entrance of thepany where it all started. Nothing''s changed. Those were the first words that came to my mind when I saw the main lobby. And there at the entrance was the same security guard who always greeted me every time he saw me. He already knew my arrival time every morning, because I always arrived fifteen or twenty minutes early before the official time. And there was the same employee at the reception desk as three years ago...Tere. "Ms. Madi?" her eyes widened when she saw me approach her desk. "Hi, Tere. How are you?" I greeted her with the same smile as before. "Oh my God! You look more beautiful, Ms. Madi!" "Well, thank you." "What happened to you? We just heard you suddenly resigned three years ago." "Ahh... I just felt tired before. You know, our job is quite tiring." I shrugged. "So, are you going to go back now?" "No, I just need to talk to someone." "Ahh... why-----" "Bye, Tere. I have to go. This is really important." I cut her off before she can ask about my sudden resignation. "Oh, okay, Ms. Madi." I walked my way towards the elevator. When the lift was slowly arriving on the executive floor, the more my heart was pounding inside. It''s deafening and I had to take a deep breath every single minute as I felt the tightening of my air passage. I closed my eyes when the lift came to stop at my designated floor. And with one final deep breath, I pressed the open button. But my eyebrows knitted when I saw the new faces of employees the moment I got out of the lift. Well, it''s been three years, what would I have expected? I tried to look for Sandy in her office, but the door was closed. But there.. in my old office a woman in her uniform, sitting in my old chair. I knocked on the door frame and she raised her head to look at me. "Hi, Good morning." I smiled as she walked over to me. "Yes, Ma''am? What can I do for you?" she asked with a raised eyebrow and looked at me from head to toe. "I''m looking for Mr. Wilsons." I ignored her kind of stare. "Do you have an appointment, Ma''am, with the CEO?" "Uhm... no, I don''t have an appointment. I just need to talk to him. It''s really important." "Oh, he''s still at the board meeting Ma''am. And I can''t let you talk to him if you don''t have an appointment!" I was left open-mouthed by the tone she gave me. "Are you his secretary?" "No, I''m his personal assistant." She replied with a little hint of sarcasm. -''Huh! Like a boss, like an assistant! Rude!''- "If you are a personal assistant, then why are you here? Why aren''t you with him, if you said he''s in a meeting?" I raised my eyebrow. "Sandy is already with him." "Okay, I''ll just wait for him in his office, until his meeting is over," I said walking past her but she stopped me by grabbing my arm. "I told you, Miss, you can''t talk to the CEO u less you have an appointment! And this is an executive floor, what are you doing here?" she red at me. I took my hand out of her grip. "And I also told you that I want to talk to your boss, so I''ll just wait for him in his office if he''s still in a meeting. This is very important Miss, and I don''t have any time to ask you for an appointment." "No! You can wait for him in his office! Who are you?" I just smiled at her rude behavior. "I am Madielyn Davis-Wilsons, I am his wife!" I replied looking directly into her eyes, but the rude assistant justughed at me as she clutched her stomach. "You know what, you really made meugh----" "Yeah, I can see that!" "Miss, I''m sorry, but I won''t buy your excuse. You don''t even have a ring, so you''d better go back and stop pretending to be my boss''s wife. Stop dreaming and your fantasy about him!" "Okay!" I said nodding. I have a better idea. "Maybe I can go break into the meeting room to talk to him, what room is he in--- ahh... room 104!" I eximed, running to the elevator. "Hey! How did you know what floor he''s on? You can''t go there!" She followed me, but I was fast and immediately pressed the close button. -I''m such a bitch!''- I muttered to myself while shaking my head. I smiled as I remember her question, how did I know what floor he was on? Of course, she said board meeting. How could I forget which floor is the board room if I worked here for half a year before? My heart started to beat faster when I reached the designated floor. When I got to the front of the double door, the nervousness started to kick in. I need to do this now or never. But I was about to push the door when someone jumped at my back which identally made me push the door in front of me. And because I was surprised by the sudden action, I lost my bnce. My loud scream startled all the people inside and the next thing I know... I found myself lying on the carpeted floor with bitch-secretary on top of me. "Oh my God! I''m sorry, Miss!" she said as she stood up. Again, I was about to open my mouth when the person I was about to meet suddenly came into my view. "What''s going on, Mica?" he asked her and then his eyes widened when he saw me lying on the floor. "Oh, God! Love?" he immediately knelt in front of me and helped me to stand up. But I winced in the sudden pain I felt when he touched my elbow. "Fuck! You''re bleeding!" Chapter 77: He finally admitted Chapter 77: He finally admitted It was then that I noticed the small cuts on both my elbows. Maybe I got it from my epic entry,nded on the carpeted floor with my elbows first. "It''s okay it''s just a small-----" "Ms. Madielyn Davis?" -''Oops!''- My eyes widened a bit when I was recognized by one of the board members of thepany. When I turned around, everyone seemed to remember me, and because most of them were men, they all give me a warm smile. And in one of the corners, I saw Sandy grinning widely at me. "Mr.Wilsons, isn''t she your former assistant?" asked one of the men inside. The jerk turned to them with the widest smile but what surprised me the most was when he gave me a quick kiss on the lips as he said... "Yes, and she''s wife." And we heard the gasps from all of them as they looked at us with wide eyes. Oh... awkward, but I didn''t miss the loud gasp of his assistant who was standing three feet away from me. She was the one who let out the loudest gasp but immediately covered her mouth. But I ignored them all, because of the sudden irritation and awkwardness I felt after he kissed me. How dare he kissed me? "I''ll wait for you in your office!" I simply told him through gritted teeth but I didn''t forget to match it with a smile so it won''t look obvious that deep inside, I really wanted to choke their boss. "Sure love," he smirked and turned to his PA with a different expression. "Mica, would you please apany ''my wife'' to my office? And we''re going to talk after this!" Mica, the assistant just nodded in response or maybe because of the nervousness she felt after knowing that what I said was true. Of course, I don''t have a ring because I gave it back to her boss three years ago. I ignored Gabriel''s gaze as I headed immediately towards the elevator with his assistant following me. When we were inside the lift, I heard her sniff. "I''m sorry Mrs. Wilsons for my rude attitude earlier." She said as she took out her handkerchief to wipe her face, but I remained silent. "Actually Ma''am, I was instructed to call him immediately when someone wants to talk to him in person, but he didn''t tell me it''s you, his wife. So, I assumed earlier that you''re just bluffing because---" "It''s okay, but I want to rify what you said. He instructed you to call him immediately when someone wants to talk to him in person?" I asked, facing her. "Yes, Ma''am, he''s been repeating it to me since yesterday morning, but I---" "Since yesterday morning?" I snapped as my eyes narrowed at what I heard. "Yes Ma''am, I''m sorry---" "No, that''s not it! If he keeps telling you since yesterday, it means, he''s really waiting and anticipating my arrival!" I formed my fists. "Y-Yes Ma''am," she said, nervousness was clearly heard from her voice. I just closed my eyes before exiting the lift to calm my raging nerves because everything that happened yesterday was slowly bing clear to me. Why was he waiting for me? The jerk himself changed my status at the City Hall. We reached his office and my eyes went wide in awe. The wall paints have been changed from ck and dark gray to now white, beige and light gray. I gulped when I saw almost everything inside had changed in colors and style. "Ma''am, let me clean your cuts." I heard Mica''s voice and that''s when I noticed I was still standing right at the closed door. "How long have you been working with him?" I asked her, sitting down on the couch. "Two weeks Ma''am, and I''m still under Sandy''s training." "Hmm... let me do it, you can go back to your work now." I took the cotton ball from her hand and she just sighed. "I don''t think I still have work to go back Ma''am, after what I did to you. I''m sorry." she lowered her head. "I ---" My words died in my throat when the door suddenly opened and the hasty Gabriel came into our view. "Madi." he immediately rushed and knelt in front of me and took the cotton with antiseptic from my hand. "I can do it, Mr.Wilsons!" I tried to grab it back, but he slightly swatted my hand. "Mr. Wilsons---" "Please... let me do it?" he pleaded with a hint of sadness in his voice. It''s weird to hear him like that but I just ignored it and let him put the cotton ball on my elbow. I gulped when I felt the warmth of his hand sending shivers down my spine. He slightly rubbed the cotton on my elbow and I held my breath as he brought his lips closer and blew my skin to ease the pain. Mica was just standing behind him as she also watched the scene in front of her. "Mica, we''re going to talkter. For now, go back to your office!" he said as he stood up after putting band-aids on my both elbows. "Yes, Sir." When his assistant finally walked out the door, he sat down next to me, but before he could speak, I throw him the first question that came to my mind. "Why did you change my status from single to married? You know I can sue you for that!" He was slightly surprised but heughed afterward. "What do you mean? I didn''t do anything." he shrugged. "Ohe on, Gabriel! Don''t y dirty with this matter! I know it was you who changed it, for me to come to you like this!" I snapped at him as I stood up. I was starting to feel distracted by the scent of his cologne and the heat radiating from his proximity. But instead of answering my question, "Why did you leave?" I was taken aback by his question, that I needed to close my eyes and calm myself before facing him again. "That''s not the issue here, Gabriel! I came here to ask you why did you change my name?" "Because that''s what yourst name should be! Now answer my question, why did you leave?" he got up and walked over to me. Text content ? N?velDrama.Org. "B-Because I got tired of your ns back then and I don''t think you still need me for that moment because you''ve already got your beloved ex back!" He smirked."You''re jealous of her before." I narrowed my eyes. "Oh, fucking sake, Gabriel! I wasn''t jealous of her! Why should I be, we''re not a real couple and we''ve never had an intimate rtionship before! And forgodsake, why are we discussing this matter right now? It''s been three years!" "Yeah!" he also raised his voice. "It''s been fucking three years since you left me without even exining why!" "I left you a note along with the divorce papers! And speaking of which, why didn''t you file them?" "So, you''ve finally found out," "Yes, and because of that, I couldn''t file any business permit in the City Hall! It''s all because of your selfishness!" I saw how he was taken aback by my words but I couldn''t take it back anymore. "Selfishness? Selfishness, Madi?" He sounded hurt. "I admit I was that selfish and jerk before, but I''ve changed since you left me!" "And how has my absence changed you, huh?" I asked, defiantly. "It''s because I love you!" My jaws dropped as I gasped and stared at him nkly. "I love you, Madi. I know I love you before, but I just don''t want to admit it myself, because to you I was just Gabriel, your boss, your jerk and selfish friend who only wanted to take revenge on his ex! But when you left, I realized that what happened to me in the past doesn''t matter at all, as long you''re there next to me. I love you, Madi---" I cut him off with my bitter yet sarcasticugh. -''You are three yearste, Gabriel.''- "What did you say, you love me?" I asked in the middle of my fakeugh. "And you just realized that when I left you? Why--- was it because you also realized that you no longer need your ex and you can get a new toy?" "Madi, what are you talking about? That''s not true!" he tried to invade my personal space but I stopped him by raising my right palm. "I didn''t look at you as a toy! I love you since I offered you my friendship, but I didn''t admit it because at that time I was confused. And I don''t want to hurt you, I want to face you when I amplete again." But I just chuckled, shaking my head. "That''s not the reason why I came here. Gabriel please, let''s file a divorce so we can---" "No!" he raised his voice and I gasped when I saw the rage in his eyes. "I''ve been waiting for you for three years, Madi. I tried everything to find you, I almost searched all over America---" "You searched for me?" I asked him in a low voice. I didn''t know he would do it for me. "Yes, I did. I even hired regr men to search for you every day. I also posted two at your mother''s house in Florida including your friends here in Chicago. It''s been three years Madi, I almost went insane every day they gave me negative reports about you, and every time I looked at your wedding ring." "Yeah, it''s been three years. We now have different lives." "No. Can we at least try? Just give it a try, Madi." "Give it a try? Gabriel, we''re not meant to be! And I can''t!" "Why? Because you already have a boyfriend right now? Because you''re already happy with that Martin guy?" "Gabriel----" I wanted to tell him that Martin is not my boyfriend and he''s just my friend, but he cut me off. "No, Madi! You can''t start another rtionship because we''re still married! And I won''t file any divorce papers whatever happens! You''re mine, Madi! And I won''t let that Martin guy take you away from me after of these years of searching for you! I''ll make his life a living hell, Madi!" -''Oh, God! Am I right, when I told Noelle that he''s now a devil? That a Greek God before turned into a devil after three years?''- "If you can''t give me the divorce papers, just sign this." I took the letter of authorization from my bag and gave it to him. "I need your signature----" but my words stuck in mid-air when he ripped the paper and crumpled it in front of me. Rage surged out inside of me, but I still managed to be calm. "I just need your signature on that paper so I can process my documents and issue my new business permit and go back to Colorado again." I followed him as he approached his desk. I felt the hot liquid forming in both my eyes because of frustrations and irritations to the man I used to love before, but I didn''t know he had already turned into a demonic creature. "No! You''re not going back there anymore!" "Gabriel please---" But a pair of lips captured mine in a hungry, possessive kiss. I was taken aback by his sudden action. He pulled my waist closer to him and cupped my face to get a better angle of his stolen kiss. I felt my world swirl around me with the very familiar feelings that formed inside me. It was a toe-curling kiss that instantly melt my system. He bit my lower lip which made me gasp and he entered his tongue, invading my mouth. But then I suddenly remembered what had happened before, the pain, the tears, the sacrifices and the promise I made myself... that I will no longer get involved with him in any way. I pushed him as a lone tear rolled down my cheek. He gasped when he noticed it but I ignored his reaction, I pped him hard in the face that I also felt the sting on my palm. "Madi---" "I didn''t know that after these years, you would turn into more jerk and a devil! You''re still the selfish Gabriel I met!" "No---Madi, wait!" I rushed to the door but he followed me. "Madi, please... I''m sorry." I turned around and faced him. "Your sorry is toote, Mr. Wilsons." "You stated in your note, we can be friends when we meet again, but why can''t you even mention my name?" I saw the hurt sh in his eyes. "Because if you just filed the divorce papers and didn''t change my personal information, maybe I could find myself being friends with you again, but no... you did the opposite!" "Madi...." I opened the door and was about to exit when he spoke again. "I''m going with you to the City hall tomorrow." and after that, I finally exited the door and walked away from his office. I didn''t find Sandy outside and in her office so headed towards the elevator. I just let my tears flow when I got inside the taxi back to the hotel. Why does it have to be as complicated as this? Suddenly, he barged in, into my life back then, but I learned to walk away before I waspletely shattered. And now, he''s here again.. telling me he loves me? Admitting that he loved me before... huh! God knows how long I waited for those words toe out of him before, but it didn''t happen. And now that I''ve moved on, he''s now pulling me be back again? Why? Chapter 78: Gabriels moves Chapter 78: Gabriel''s moves Madi''s POV: It''s half-past seven in the morning and I was napping lightly when I heard the sound of my rm clock. I reached for it to stop it from ringing but then I noticed it wasn''t from the rm clock but my phone. I answered it with my half-closed eyes and didn''t bother looking at who the disturbing caller was on the screen. But I jolted up and my eyes widened when I heard the familiar voice from the other line and ... it''s Gabriel. And since I got up quickly, I haven''t noticed that I was already on the edge of the bed and the next thing I know, I was on the floor. How I wished my scream could save me, but no... I fell with a loud thud and with my butt first. "Hey! What happened to you?" concern was woven in his voice as I heard the loud bang from the other side of the door. "Fucking shit!" I cursed when I felt the sting on my butt and groaned in pain. "Opened this fucking door! What happened to you?" He asked again but I just ignored him and tried to get up. "Gosh! How did you know where I was staying? And forgodsake, how did you get my number?" I asked as I walked towards the main door. "Are you okay? I heard you scream!" but he also ignored my question. N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner. "What are you doing here?" "God, Madi! Just answer my question first! Are you okay?" I rolled my eyes as I opened the door. "I''m fine! Now, answer my question... what are you doing---" he lunged at me and hugged me in a bone-crushing hug. "You scared me! I thought something had happened to you!" he said as he repeatedly kissing my hair. "Hey, Gabriel!" I pushed him slightly. "Why did you scream?" he asked when he pulled back and guess what--- it was he who closed the door. "It''s none of your business!" I answered, leaving him and went straight to the mini-kitchen. I haven''t heard his voice again, but I know he''s following me because of the sound of his shoes on the tiled floor. I boiled the water on the electric kettle and took the ready mixed coffee from the drawer. When I turned around, he''s alreadyfortably seated at my two-seater dining table. He didn''t say a word, he''s just looking at me and God... it''s a little awkward moving inside while his eyes were focused on me. "Why are you here?" "You haven''t had your breakfast yet?" We asked in unison, but it was I who asked him again for the second time. "Excuse me? You barged into my room so early this morning while I was still sleeping and then now you ask me if I haven''t had breakfast yet? Gosh! Look at me, I''m still in my sleepwear!" I pointed to my clothes and he just chuckled at me. "You''re like a hen, Madi. I was just asking if you haven''t had breakfast but you''ve already said a lot of things." I rolled my eyes. "What are you doing here?" "I told you, I''m going to the City Hall with you." I was about to speak when we both heard the doorbell ring. "You already have a visitor this early morning?" he asked me narrowing his eyes. "Huh! Yeah, you''re here in my kitchen, earlier than whoever is outside right now." I walked back into the living room with him trailing behind me. And guess what, he pulled me by my waist before I could reach the door and he was the one who opened it. "Babe, I heard-------you? What are you doing in my girlfriend''s room?" -''Ah-oh!''- I bit my bottom lip when I noticed Gabriel''s fists formed into a ball. "None of your business!" Gabriel answered with a growl. "It''s my business because she''s my girlfriend!" "I don''t care! She''s still my wife!" "What? How did you-----" But we never heard his next words when Gabriel rudely mmed the door in Martin''s face. I gasped at his rudeness and red at him. "Why did you do that? Why did you close the door---" And I too didn''t hear my next words when his lips suddenly joined mine. -''Gosh! I haven''t brushed yet!''- I pushed him as my eyes widened. He smirked and then left me dumbfounded in my post. He went back to the kitchen and made himself comfortable making his coffee and opening my fridge. "What are you doing?" "Checking something to eat. I haven''t had my breakfast too, so I''m going to cook." he shrugged as if it were his kitchen. "Wow! So, you just got yourself early to have breakfast here?" "Hmm.. yeah, that''s one of the reasons. I want to eat here with you because it''s boring to have breakfast at home since you left me," he said casually. "Huh!" I can''t form any words with that, so I just rolled my eyes. "Why don''t you take a bath first, while I make breakfast? I''ll wait for you here." he smiled and continued to search for something inside the refrigerator. "What the---argh!" I stomped my feet and turned around only to stopped again when I heard what he said. "I love you...love." My mouth hung in mid-air when I heard him say those words aloud. I looked at him but he''s now facing the stove and starting to cook. -''Did he just say it or he''s just ying around?''- I can''t help but ask myself as I turned my way back to my room. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * "Madi.." I nced up when Noelle called me. I was currently checking the reports from the previous month. "Your handsome devil is here." she''s winked at me, grinning widely. "Who are you talking about?" "God! Who else, your husband!" "Tss! What is he doing here?" I scrunched my eyebrows. "I don''t know. He''s waiting for you outside. Go! don''t make him wait." "Huh! Let him wait until he gets old!" "Oh no! Don''t you ever wish to get him old in an instant, Madi!" "And why not?" I asked confused in her horrified look. "Because if he gets old quickly, his crotch will get old too. And you will never experience the taste of heaven!" "Oh my God, Noelle! You really have a silly, fishy mouth!" she chuckled when she saw my crumpled face. "Tsk.Tsk.Tsk. Such a virgin!" "Hmmph!" I huffed as I headed for the door. I can hear her loudugh even though I have already closed the door behind me. I found Gabriel sitting near the counter. I sighed before deciding to approach him. "What are you doing here?" he nced up and smiled at me. "Why is it every time you see me, you ask me the same question?" "And what do you want me to ask you?" I asked crossing my hands over my chest. He smirked. "Well, you can ask me if when I am going to kiss you again, or you can----" "Mr. Gabriel Wilsons, I don''t have time for your corny jokes! I have a lot of things to do!" I whispered- yelled at him through gritted teeth, but the jerk didn''t seem to be bothered because he just chuckled at me. "Oh, I''m sorry Mrs. Madielyn Wilsons. I just came here to eat, and we''re going to eat together. I have already ordered for us." "Huh! I''m not going to eat with you! I''m still full." I huffed and was about to walk away when he spoke again. "Okay, if you''re not going to sit down right now, I''ll scream here," he warned. "And what are you going to scream?" "That I love you... inside your restaurant." I didn''t take it seriously and justughed at him. "Then go on! Shout it!" I challenged him while still laughing. Because I''m sure he can''t do that. But to my surprise, he stood up and smirked at me. "Watch me." I raised an eyebrow when he walked to the center floor of the restaurant and I gulped when he spread his arms out to the side before and screamed. "I love you, Madi! I love you, Mrs. Madielyn Wilsons! I love you, my love!" -''Oh, holy God!''- My eyes widened more than a saucer as I watched him repeatedly shout the same sentence in the middle. And because his voice was too loud, it immediately caught the attention of almost all the customers inside. And take note, some of them took their phones and recorded what Gabriel was doing. "I love you, my wife! Please give me a second chance!" he continued screaming, so I decided to go over to him. "Gabriel, what are you doing?" I whispered through gritted teeth. "You''re asking me that question again, love." he continued in his loud voice. "Don''t you have work to do?" but no matter how I tried to lower my voice, he just kept answering me with his loud voice. "Yes I have, that''s why I came here to eat with you. So please, join me." "Come on, Ms. Madi. Just grant your husband''s wish. He''s so sweet, isn''t he guys?" said one of the female customers. "Yes! Come on girl! He''s so cute and handsome. Yummy!" and my jaws dropped when I heard that from a gay customer. "You heard that? They all agree with me." and the jerk himself turned to me with a huge grin. I bit my bottom lip hard and took a deep breath before faking my smile. "Fine! Let''s eat." I grabbed his hand and pulled him back to the table. "You''re crazy, Gabriel! Don''t you know that?" I red at him as I sat in the chair across from him. "Of course, I do. I''m crazy for you." and he winked at me. I was left speechless by that. I admit deep inside, I missed this other side of him. The carefree and funny Gabriel. I didn''t say anything after that. I just started eating my food, ignoring his intense stares on my face. Well, let him be.. just to finish this moment immediately. The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!