ã€ŠTo Hate My Stepbrotherã€‹


 Chapter 1

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°Oh shit! Shit!¡± I hissed as I jumped out of bed and hurriedly made my way to my bathroom. I had a presentation today and I had stupidly slept in! I really shouldn¡¯t be med cause I waspletely tired and knocked out from all the research and reading I¡¯d had to dost night

    I put my hair into a high ponytail as I scampered out of my building, I also had to walk to the bus stop, I sighed as I hurriedly walked and it was as though I was walking on hot coal, thanks to the insanely hot weather.

    I heard footsteps as I walked, my presentation material was cradled carefully in my arms and I held it tightly against my chest.

    It all happened in a few seconds.

    One moment, I was walking briskly while going over my presentation in my head, and the next moment, out of nowhere, a solid mass of muscles collided against my side, propelling me sideways.

    The collision had been so intense and sudden, I stumbled and lost my footing. I staggered and in a bid to keep my foot on the ground, I dropped my perfectly crafted practical, just as I felt insanely hot liquid seep through the front of my shirt and arms. Next, I was falling on the hard ground, where Iter realized had been soiled up by the rest of the hot coffee that had poured over me.

    My head was reeling. It had collided with the hard granite flood and now, it was pounding.

    I took a look at the ss door of the supermarket right by the side of the spot where thismotion had taken ce, and to my horror,  I looked a mess; my neatly packed hair had coffee in it and my cloth was a total ruin.

    I looked horrible.

    I winced as I tried to pick myself up from the floor but a sharp pain shot through my left leg. I had bruises over my elbow and knees, pain shot up the rest of my body and I knew the pain was going to linger for a while. The bruise on my elbows needed to be tended to as well.

    I ced my hand on my back and I moved sideways, I could feel the ache as I moved, and then my eyes flew wide open as soon as Iid eyes on my now shattered project.

    ¡°Oh my god. Oh my god.¡± I said, trying to keep myself from crying as I stared at the damages done to me by the stranger who had collided into me.

    ¡°Watch where you¡¯re going, Jesus.¡± I heard a masculine voice yell at me just then, and my jaw dropped as I took a nce at my ruined project scattered over the wet ground. A few empty cups of coffee lolled on the ground as well, proving to me that the stranger¡¯s entire pack of coffee had poured over the floor and some had gotten on my clothes when he had collided into me.

    I then nced up at the stranger who was standing a few feet away from me. He had a re on his face, and his clothes was spotless, whereas mine waspletely ruined.

    He had bumped into me and instead of apologizing, he dared to stand there and point fingers at me, for something he had done. It took me days and lots of sleepless nights to get my project and presentation ready.

    And, that had literally gone down the drain right now.

    ¡°Watch where I¡¯m going?!¡± I screamed as I stood up in a jiffy, not minding the excruciating pain that shot through my body.

    ¡°You bumped into me, and spilled your stupid coffee everywhere, and instead of you tendering an apology, you had the nerve to tell me to Watch where I¡¯m going?!¡± I shot at him.

    The adrenaline rush made me more energized than I should currently be feeling. Seeing as I was already runningte and the presentation had most definitely already began, coupled with the fact that my project was already ruined, I had automatically failed the test¨C which means I¡¯m going to have to study extra, extra harder if I wanted to pass the ss with a ¡®C¡¯.

    My life was literally so fucked right now.

    ¡°Look,¡± He started, squeezing the empty cup of coffee he had in his hand as he moved closer to me, his figure was intimidating but I wasn¡¯t scared one bit, if there was anything to describe my emotion then it would be anger. Immense anger.

    ¡°If anyone should be apologizing, then it would totally be you. You came out of nowhere and walked right into me. What are you? Five? Shouldn¡¯t you watch where you¡¯re fucking going? I literally cannot believe you right now, and you¡¯re demanding an apology? Oh please.¡± He scoffed and rolled his eyes as made to walk past me, but was shocked when I pulled him back without warning.

    I also shocked myself with that move.

    ¡°That,¡± I started saying, the hot tears at the back of my eyes threatening to fall, and my voice was starting to shake as I spoke. I wasn¡¯t about to let him see me in a vulnerable state so I shook my head, cleared my throat and braced myself up properly.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°That scattered on the floor,¡± I started once again as I pointed at my scattered papers which were already soaked through with coffee on the floor. ¡°¨C is months of hard work, months of sleepless nights and you just pushed it down the fucking drain!¡± I yelled, stomping my feet on the ground as I spoke.

    My blood boiled the more he kept staring down at me without saying a thing and I clenched my fist in anger when I saw the scowl forming on his face. He had the nerve to scowl at me after all that he¡¯s just put me through?

    ¡°Are you slow or you just have a hard timeprehending words said to you?¡± He asked and my mouth fell open once again. I made to say something, but nothing came forth, and so I pped my mouth shut.

    ¡°If your eyes were where you were going, then we wouldn¡¯t be having this conversation right now! My shoes are also ruined because of you so you don¡¯t get to stand here in front of me and start telling me about how I¡¯d ruined months of your hard work. Do you know how much my freaking shoes cost? It definitely costs more than your dumb projects.¡± He finished with a hiss and that was where I lost it.

    ¡°You know what you are?¡± I asked, my voice getting a little bit higher as I spoke, as I shoved at his chest harshly. ¡°A jerk, a total jerk! That is what you are!¡± I screamed at him, shoving at him once again for good measures.

    ¡°Whatever you think of me or whatever name you¡¯ve deemed fit to describe me is none of my fucking business, it¡¯s yours.¡± He hissed as he walked past me.

    I didn¡¯t want to let him have thest word, he was walking away and I was losing. If I didn¡¯t do or say anything at this point, I would find myself staying upte while thinking of all of the possible ways I could¡¯ve had thestugh in this situation.

    Without thinking, I reached forward and I shoved him as hard as I could. I watched as he slipped and fell face down into some of the coffee on the ground and a satisfied smile yed out in my face, doing that was not going to put my presentation back in ce but I was a tad bit satisfied.

    ¡°Now, we¡¯re even.¡± I breathed as I turned around to pick up my bag and phone from the ground. I attempted to pick the soiled papers but it was of no use. I hadn¡¯t been able to back the project up, so there was no way I wasn¡¯t going to be doing all these from scratch.

    ¡°What do I do now?¡± I sighed in frustration as I continued my way to the bus stop, looking like I just got out of a dumpster. The bus must have definitely left by now, and it would be an hour or more before another buses by.

    I was nothing but doomed today.

    I took another deep breath as I silently prayed my day wouldn¡¯t get any worse and that the stupid stranger who had caused all these to me would definitely have a miserable and horrible day today, and throughout the rest of his life.

    ¡°I hate people like that and I wish I¡¯d never have toe across the arrogant asshole ever again!¡± I muttered under my breath while ring down at my ruined shoes.

 Chapter 2

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°You look like the real definition of a thoroughly beaten horse.¡± One of my friendsmented and I only rolled my eyes.

    ¡°Tell me about it.¡± I huffed out as I sank into the spot next to her. By the look of things, it was obvious that the entire ss were done presenting their projects, and all that¡¯s remaining is the quiz test which was supposed to be held after the presentation.

    This subject itself was a really important one and I couldn¡¯t afford to fail it, and I have no idea of how well I¡¯d do without my presentation.

    I wrote my test and I made sure I did my best. I answered the questions I knew and I silently hoped it was going to be enough, especially since I hadn¡¯t presented any project.

    I waited nervously, resting my head in my palms and lightly drumming my fingers on the table. I couldn¡¯t wait to get my papers back and see how I¡¯d done.

    ¡°Ava,¡± The professor¡¯s voice was loud as she spoke and I immediately, I knew I had fucked up. Whatever she wanted to say would be definitely horrible.

    ¡°You failed, mainly because you failed to present a project like the rest of the ss did. Why is that? Anyways, you need to work extra hard or better still, take extra measures at studying, to avoid you having toe back here next year.¡± She exined as she handed me my paper.

    The mortification that engulfed me knew no bounds, and once again, I cursed the stupid stranger who had collided into me this morning.

    He was the cause of all these. The stupidly, arrogant bastard.

    I got my test results back and as expected, I¡¯d failed the test. Now, I have no other choice than to work extra hard to not fail this course.

    How convenient.

    My day was going way smoother than I had expected. It had all been roses and sunshine since I stepped out of the house this morning.

    ~~~~~

    ¡°I hate him, I hate every inch of him and now I¡¯m dealing with this predicament because of him!¡± I grumbled under my breath as I walked into the house and mmed the door shut behind me.

    It wasn¡¯t long before I was shrugging my bag off and sinking into the couch in the sitting room.

    I thought about the stranger again and my blood boiled, the anger and hatred I felt towards him only intensified.

    If he had at least apologized, I was sure I wouldn¡¯t be feeling this angry. But, he refused to apologize and even had the audacity to pull the victim card out.

    How honorable and manly of him.

    The scent of my mum¡¯s cookies invaded my thoughts and I inhaled deeply. I knew she¡¯d already be home, but I hadn¡¯t wanted her to see me like this, full of anger.

    A few minutes passed with me trying to gather myself on the couch, when the sounds of mum¡¯s familiar footsteps began to draw closer.

    I opened my eyes at once to see my mother standing in front of me with a tray of her freshly baked cookies, she was all smiles and it was as though she¡¯d just won the lottery.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Angel?¡± She asked as soon as she noticed the frown still sitting on my face, calling me by the pet-name she¡¯d assigned to me. I¡¯d wanted to tell her about my encounter today and the useless stranger that had bumped into me thereby making me lose my presentation and fail my important test but I decided against it, because I¡¯d noticed something else.

    ¡°Why are you so happy?¡± I asked with a raised eyebrow, everything about my mother was different in a way tonight and I didn¡¯t want to ruin the moment.

    ¡°Take a guess.¡± She said as she took her seat beside me graciously, picking one of her cookies and munching away happily.

    ¡°He proposed?¡± I asked, raising my eyebrow a little bit higher and my mother¡¯s shriek threw me off-guard, I was right.

    ¡°How did you know?¡± She asked, looking really happy and I told her it was nothing but a lucky guess, lying through my teeth.

    I had already caught the glimpse of her ring finger and the shiny diamond ring she had on it was hard to ignore although she tried really hard to hide it beneath the cookie tray, but I had noticed it just fine.

    ¡°When?¡± I asked, my curiosity taking over, I knew how much my mum loved the man she¡¯s been going out with and I just felt genuinely happy for her because she was always really happy whenever she was out with him.

    They¡¯d been going out for over six months and she would asionally tell me about how she knew it was too early but couldn¡¯t wait to have something real with him.

    ¡°Today and I said-¡± she answered excitedly and I found myself grinning from ear to ear as she slowly brought forth her hand for me to see, ¡°Yes!¡± She finished and I gasped dramatically.

    ¡°Oh my god! It¡¯s so beautiful.¡±

    ¡°Thank you so much, the proposal was beautiful and oh my god, Ava, the setting was one of a kind, I couldn¡¯t say No!¡± My mother exined and I couldn¡¯t help but be happy for her.

    She deserved all of the happiness and love she was getting and although I wasn¡¯t quitefortable with the fact that I would have a new father figure in my life, I didn¡¯t show it. I still haven¡¯t gotten over my father¡¯s death, we shared a really deep bond that was hard and literally impossible to forget, and having someone else rece him was something I just wasn¡¯t really ready for.

    ¡°Congrattions, Mum. I really am happy for you.¡± I said as I pulled her in for a long hug and she held me tightly as though she wasn¡¯t ready to let go of me.

    ¡°I know this might seem a little bit too sudden for you and if you don¡¯t want me to go through with this, you can just let me know.¡± My mother spoke softly. This was another thing I loved about her, she wanted my happiness and she usually always put me first even before herself.

    I watched the look on her face and her smile faded a little when I was taking too long to say anything. I know how much she wanted this and I¡¯m really not about to ruin it for her.

    ¡°I really can¡¯t wait to meet him!¡± I shrieked with as much enthusiasm I could muster, and she clutched her chest as she pulled me in for another hug. She¡¯d probably thought I was going to disapprove.

    ¡°And, you know what?¡± She started as she pulled away from me.

    ¡°He has a son too, he¡¯s around your age and you both will get along pretty good. He¡¯s the sweetest soul and I swear you will love him.¡± She exined excitedly as she took another bite of her cookie.

    ¡°Really?¡± I mused, I was really excited now and I knew she could see the glint in my eyes as she nodded.

    ¡°Yes, really. He¡¯s sweet and you both can start acting as brothers and sisters as soon as we get married! About Danny, you don¡¯t have to call him dad or anything-¡± I watched as my mother kept talking, she was starting to overthink again and I knew I needed to stop her.

    ¡°Mom,¡± I called and she stopped talking, ¡°I¡¯m okay with all this, Dad would also want you to be happy and you deserve to be happy. And, about me calling him dad, let¡¯s just see how things flows.¡± I watched as her expression softened and tears was already welling up in her eyes.

    ¡°Our family will finally beplete once again. I really am excited and so happy for you.¡± Ipleted and she leaned in to hug me once again.

    ¡°Okay, you¡¯re squeezing me too tight now.¡± I let out and sheughed as she released me, drying up her tears as she stood.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go get us a ss of milk so we can enjoy these cookies.¡± She stood and made her way to the kitchen as I followed her every step.

    I¡¯ve never seen my mother this happy, she was usually only always burying herself in her work so this sight was a beautiful one.

    Our family has been given another chance to beplete and now I can¡¯t wait to meet and wee the rest of the family.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 3

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I watched TV with my mum throughout the night and had even fallen asleep on the couch. The excitement of my mother¡¯s engagement still filled the air and mum¡¯s excitement was really contagious.

    The week went on slowly as I kept going to school and back, my mum wouldn¡¯t stop talking about her fianc¨¦e and of course, I was genuinely happy for her.

    She deserves to finally find happiness again.

    ¡°What do you think about this?¡± My mum asked and I lifted my gaze from my phone to find her dressed in a gorgeous white dress.

    She looked really beautiful and the smile she had on made her look even prettier, the preparation for the wedding was starting to take ce and I¡¯d decided I was going to follow her to try some dresses on.

    Although she¡¯d decided she didn¡¯t want a big, fancy wedding, I insisted she got dressed like a bride at least and I was happy when she agreed.

    ¡°Mum, you look really beautiful.¡± I answered as I stood up and examined the dress, it was the perfect size and the design was perfect too. The diamonds on the dress formed a big heart in the middle of her chest, and It had little florals on it that made me love it even more.

    ¡°Really? Thank you.¡± She gushed and I nodded. I watched as she went back to the dressing room to get changed and she¡¯d asked that the dress be held down for her since she¡¯d be taking it.

    ¡°You¡¯re meeting him tomorrow, are you excited?¡± My mother asked and I nodded, I¡¯d almost forgotten about the meeting and I couldn¡¯t help but be grateful that she¡¯d reminded me.

    ¡°Yes, I really can¡¯t wait. I need to see the man behind your smiles and the one you¡¯re about to abandon me for.¡± I teased but she took it a little personally.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that, I¡¯m not abandoning you. Is that how you feel?¡± She asked, her face falling and I shook my head immediately.

    ¡°No, I was just pulling your legs,¡± I answered and she raised an eyebrow, she wanted to be sure I was okay with the wedding.

    ¡°Mum, c¡¯mon. I was only teasing you. I want this for you just as much as you do.¡± I added and she sighed.

    ¡°I want you to know that I love you so much and no one, no one can ever take your ce in my heart.¡± She affirmed as she leaned down to press a kiss against my cheek.

    I knew she loves me and I love her just as much.

    ¡°I know, mum and I love you more.¡± I smiled and she stood as we continued our walk to the car and drove home.

    The drive home wasn¡¯t as filled with a lot of chitchat, and we began talking about how many people to invite, the better cake vors and designs and all other stuff.

    We got home and my mother fixed us a nice te for dinner, we both ate heartily and had decided to watch TV before I retired to bed.

    ¡°Goodnight mum.¡± I yawned as I stood up.

    ¡°Goodnight, Angel.¡± She replied and I slowly made my way to my room as Iid on the bed and stared outside the window.

    I will be meeting him tomorrow for the first time, and in a way, I was looking forward to it. I want to know the man who was marrying my mother, even though I might never grow to see him as a father to me.

    ~~~

    The ring sound of my rm ringing woke me up from my sleep, I jumped when I heard it sound unexpectedly and I only rxed when I realized it was just my bedside rm.

    I hopped to the bathroom and cleaned myself up.

    I walked outside to meet my mother, happy and energetic, she was cleaning the house as usual and hadn¡¯t noticed me until she turned.

    ¡°You¡¯re awake.¡± She said, ¡°I¡¯m just cleaning up, you know. I¡¯m arranging the house.¡± She exined and Iughed.

    ¡°I know mum, you don¡¯t have to exin everything.¡± Iughed as I made my way to the kitchen, it still isn¡¯t till evening before he shows up and my mum and I had thought of picking up groceries in the afternoon.

    ¡°What¡¯s for breakfast?¡± I asked and I soon heard footsteps as my mother joined me in the kitchen.

    ¡°How about I fix you a te of sandwich then we get to eat after grocery shopping?¡± She asked and I nodded in agreement.

    I watched as my mother danced around the kitchen preparing my breakfast for me. I finished eating and was scrolling through my phone, waiting for my mum to be done with her chores so we could go shopping together.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± She announced and I stood to join as we both made our way to the grocery shop, we¡¯d decided we were going to walk to the supermarket since it wasn¡¯t all that far and the weather looked quite nice today.

    ~~~~

    Night finslly arrived.

    I took the in ck gown that I had hung and put it on, I also did my makeup¨C a light one, and then I dropped my hair so it fell down my mid back in soft curls.

    ¡°You look really beautiful.¡± I gushed when I saw my mother, she had a red gown on and a red lipstick to match, her hair fell a little bit past her shoulders and the side of her face was covered with it.

    She looked gorgeous, like a model.

    That¡¯s where I got my hood looks from.

    ¡°Thank you. You look absolutely breathtaking as well.¡± She huffed out around a giggle just as we heard the doorbell ring.

    ¡°I¡¯ll get it.¡± She called out as she walked to the door.

    ~~~

    ¡°You must be Ava.¡± The man said with a warm smile just as mum began to introduce us properly. The rest of the dinner was well spent and when mum had asked about his son, he¡¯d told us that his son couldn¡¯t apany him tonight because he had some urgent things to tend to, but would definitely be meeting Ava on the wedding day.

    After the pleasant dinner, I waited in the car while he exchanged a kiss with mum while whispering things I never wished to hear, into her ear. Soon, she was sliding into the car, cheeks heated up and eyes twinkling with excitement.

    He made his way into the car as well and I retired into my bedroom as soon as we arrived home, waiting to give my mother and her fianc¨¦e as much privacy as they¡¯d want.

    I was exhausted. The dinner was better than I had expected. Even though I didn¡¯t get to meet with the man¡¯s son tonight, I didn¡¯t mind. I had a feeling I was going to get along with him just fine, seeing how easy it was for me to get along with my mum¡¯s fianc¨¦.

    I couldn¡¯t shake off the look of undiluted happiness on my mother¡¯s face while we¡¯ve been having dinner with her fianc¨¦e tonight.

    I wasn¡¯t sure I¡¯d ever seen her that happy, ever since dad died.

    Maybe this marriage really was a good thing.

    But, I do miss my dad though.

    I let out a small sigh as I picked the picture of him I had by my bedside table.

    ¡®I miss you dad.¡¯ I whispered, kissing and cing it back in its spot, and then I closed my eyes to sleep, I have a long week ahead of me.

 Chapter 4

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The hustle and bustle in our house grew as we prepared for my mother¡¯s wedding ceremony. I was stressing over my mum¡¯s wedding as much as mum herself was doing.

    I woke up with my head pounding, I¡¯d slept reallyte from nningte into the night, and this was the result. I winced as I opened my eyes and realized that my curtain was up, the ray of the sun brightening up my room was quite ufortable as I stood up, I ced my palm on my face as I slowly made my way to the window to drop the curtain, making my room a little bit darker.

    I excitedly did the happy dance to my bathroom as I hummed a song, while brushing my teeth. The day we¡¯ve all been anticipating was finally here and I just can¡¯t wait to capture every beautiful moment in my heart.

    I took a long nce at the powdered blue gownid on my bed and I picked it up to hold it against my body for a few seconds.

    I went back to the bathroom to have my bath, I¡¯d done all the necessary things I needed to do, and then I had my mother¡¯s makeup artist and hair stylist do my makeup and hair.

    I put on my blue gown apanied with a blue stiletto heel and a white purse. I looked really gorgeous, I thought to myself in admiration. I took another look at the mirror before walking out of my room.

    ¡°You look really beautiful.¡± I shrieked as I saw my mother already dressed in her wedding gown with her perfectly made up face.

    Like I had hoped, the wedding turned out really beautiful and wless. My mum was the happiest bride I¡¯ve ever seen, and I silently prayed that she¡¯d find immense happiness in her new husband, like she did in my father.

    The wedding was held in a court, and after they both said their vows, I watched as they both signed the papers and everyone in the room stood to cheer for them.

    I looked around in search of my soon to be step brother and he was nowhere to be found, I couldn¡¯t wait to meet him, but for a moment, I wondered if he decided not to show up at the wedding today because he wasn¡¯t happy that his father was remarrying.

    With a small sigh, I pushed that thought out of my mind.

    We proceeded to the reception venue and I let out a smile when I saw my mother and her husband having their first dance. I felt lucky to have to witness a moment as precious as this.

    ¡°I need to use the restroom.¡± My childhood friend announced as she got to stand beside me, she must¡¯ve been really pressed because she was pacing about.

    ¡°Why does it have to be now?¡± I groaned as I turned and I couldn¡¯t hold in myughter when I saw my friend doing the urgent dance.

    ¡°Is it that bad?¡± I demanded, trying really hard to not burst into another round ofughter.

    ¡°Mhhm.¡± She answered and we both made our way to the restroom. We did almost everything together and I understood at once when she couldn¡¯t walk to the bathroom alone.

    ¡°Why do you have to pull me out of that beautiful dance floor?¡± I huffed out while checking myself out in the mirror.

    ¡°Quit whining, Ava. It¡¯s not like you have a date waiting for you back on the dance floor.¡± She called out from the stall she was using and I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°Shut up.¡±

    We returned to the reception and I scanned the room in search of my mother. I let out a small grin as soon as I spotted her beside her newly wedded husband. It took a few minutes for me to notice the third person standing before them, whom my mum tugged down into a long hug.

    The person was also dressed in blue, and telling from his back, he was very tall and wide shouldered.

    Perhaps it was a family friend? A distant cousin?

    I watched as a smile tugged at Danny, my step father¡¯s lips, as he watched the interaction between his new wife and the stranger, proving to me that he was perhaps, not a stranger.

    I had better go say hi!

    ¡°Your stepdad is so hot in his suit.¡± My friend let out in a quiet voice beside me and I snarled at her.

    ¡°That¡¯s my mother¡¯s husband, ew. Keep your nastyment to yourself!¡± I huffed out and next, my mother finally noticed me.

    ¡°Ava,¡± she called out while beaconing me over.

    ¡°Come over here.¡± She added and I smiled as I carefully made my way towards her.

    ¡°Where have you been? We¡¯ve been searching around for you.¡± Danny asked and I apologized for leaving the area unannounced.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I had to go to the restroom.¡± I answered and my mother took my hand in hers.

    The stranger was still backing me, just as my mother began to speak.

    ¡°Now that you¡¯re here, I¡¯d like you to meet-¡± Her voice was filled with excitement as she spoke, as the stranger finally turned around till he was facing me, and then my jaw dropped.

    Next, my body went cold as ice. My eyes were as wide as saucers and I couldn¡¯t bring myself to wrap my head around what was currently happening.

    There was no way I¡¯m seeing right, I slightly pinched myself and I could feel it and that told me what I needed to know, I wasn¡¯t dreaming, he really was the one.

    From nowhere, immense anger engulfed me and I pointed my index finger at him. I¡¯d almost forgotten everything about him but seeing him right now has made me recollect all what had yed out that day between us.

    ¡°You!¡± I snarled, ¡°What are you doing here?¡± I demanded, my anger evident and I was sure my mother and Danny were surprised.

    ¡°What am I doing here? I think I should be the one asking you that. Oh wait, perhaps you weren¡¯t watching your steps once again and mistakenly walked into the venue like you walked into me that morning?¡± He shot back and I was taken aback, how dare he?

    ¡°You stupid bastard, who gave you the effontary¨C¡±

    ¡°Do you even have a right to be here?¡± He cut me off and I spluttered while my insides boiled with anger.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°What kind of dumb question is that? Are you insane?¡± I screeched just as my mother grabbed my wrist and tugged me against her side.

    ¡°Do you both know each other?¡± Danny asked while regarding me and the stranger at once and I nodded, which made Danny¡¯s confusion intensify.

    ¡°Ava, I was just about to introduce you to your stepbrother.¡± My mother supplied next and everything literally stopped in that moment.

    I was shook, there was no way in hell that I¡¯d just heard my mother right.

 Chapter 5

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°I was about to introduce you to your stepbrother, his name¡¯s Mason.¡± My mother¡¯s voice kept on ringing in my head and all of my attempts to shake it off proved futile as the horrible stranger who¡¯d cost me a lot still stood in front of me.

    My chest clenched as I struggled to breath, it was as though I¡¯d suddenly forgotten how to breath properly. What the hell was going on right now?

    He was the one who¡¯d made me lose my presentation. I failed a very important test and he revealed absolutely no sign of remorse and had even attacked me.

    There was no way he was my stepbrother, all of the activities going on around us seemed to be on hold as I tried to gather my bearings.

    ¡°There¡¯s no fucking way that this asshole is my stepbrother!¡± I yelled as I pointed a finger in his direction, I was causing a scene but I didn¡¯t care and I could tell that my mother and stepfather were surprised at my outburst.

    ¡°What do you mean, Ava?¡± My mother asked softly, she was trying to calm me down but I wasn¡¯t having it.

    ¡°I mean if this rude son of a bitch would be my stepbrother then I disapprove,¡± I yelled, all attention was now drawn to me and my mother was trying to hold me down as I spoke, ¡°I never ever want to ever see you again and you have the nerve to waltz in here like someone wanted you here!¡± I screeched, lounging forward to shove the stranger named Mason but my mother held me back.

    ¡°Oh please, do you really think I¡¯m equally happy to be seeing your face right now? I also don¡¯t ever want to see you again, you¡¯re not only childish and dumb, you¡¯re also very fucking rude!¡± He shot back at me, both of us doing nothing to mask our dislike and utter hatred for each other.

    ¡°Oh, if I¡¯m rude, then what are you? You arrogant swine. Why are you here, huh? No one wants you here!¡± I knew I shouldn¡¯t be hauling insults at him, especially not in a ce like this, but I couldn¡¯t bring myself to stop.

    ¡°I came for my father because I care about him and his happiness, I¡¯m not here to exchange words with a clumsy person who doesn¡¯t even look where she¡¯s going before stupidly bumping into someone and also expecting an apology on top, who¡¯s the proud one now?¡± He demanded with a scowl and it took everything in me to not sprint over to him and give him a hard p.

    I gritted my teeth and clenched my fist on my side. I tried to refrain from punching him across his face, but I couldn¡¯t hold myself any much longer. I¡¯d have probably done that if my mother wasn¡¯t holding me back right now. His face disgusts me and his presence made my stomach knot.

    I turned around to look at my mother and I could see the disappointment boldly written on her face. She motioned for me toe with her next.

    I forced myself to calm down as I followed her out of the reception, she¡¯d decided she needed to speak with me and we found a quiet, private spot to talk. I was still fuming and pacing about and my mother let me let it all out before she spoke.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you? Of all days for you to lose it, it has to be at my wedding?!¡± She used and I pursed my lips. Her disappointment was clear in her voice as she spoke.

    ¡°I hate him! I don¡¯t want him as a stepbrother, I don¡¯t ever want to have to see his face again.¡± I snarled but calmed when my mother¡¯s face fell.

    ¡°What do you mean? That¡¯s Mason, he¡¯s Danny¡¯s son and if the rtionship between the both of us would work then you would have to put your differences aside and just let it go-¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no way I¡¯m doing that!¡± I cut in.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you want me to be happy? This is my wedding for crying out loud and you¡¯re ruining it.¡± She said and my heart broke, how could she think I don¡¯t want her to be happy?

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, mum,¡± I apologized, ¡°I promise to be on my best behavior and let our differences go for today. I want you to be happy.¡± I finished and she let out a smile as she hugged me.

    We waited a few minutes more before we both walked back to the reception.

    I caught a glimpse of Danny scolding Mason and the far end of the room and when he caught sight of me, I rolled my eyes and snarled at him. I just couldn¡¯t help it.

    Soon, Danny and his son, Mason, crossed the reception towards where my mother and I were standing.

    ¡°What do you have to say to each other?¡± Danny asked and I blinked at him. I didn¡¯t want to be the one to apologize first, I wanted to get the satisfaction of him doing it first.

    ¡°Ava?¡± My mother called out and I rolled my eyee and let out a groan.

    ¡°C¡¯mon Ava, remember what we talked about. What do you say?¡± She pressed.

    ¡°I¡¯m not apologizing, he offended me first-¡±

    ¡°Ava!¡± She called out once again and I sucked in a sharp breath and hastily exhaled it.

    ¡°Fine! I¡¯m sorry.¡± I said with my eyes rolling so hard that I could feel it at the back of my head.

    It was the fakest apology I¡¯ve ever given in my entire life.

    ¡°Mason?¡± His dad called and he apologized gruffly while ring daggers my way, the both of us promised to be on our best behavior and try our best to not ruin our parents¡¯ special moment.

    I avoided him like he was a gue and I was grateful that he¡¯d done the same, although sometimes when we crossed each other¡¯s parts, we would insult each other beneath our breath and give each other the fingers like our lives depended on it.

    ¡°I hate him so much.¡± I muttered to my friend who couldn¡¯t hold in herughter.

    ¡°What¡¯s funny?¡± I grumbled and she stoppedughing at once.

    ¡°You hate him but it¡¯s too bad he¡¯s going to be your stepbrother, both of you would basically have to sleep and wake up together in the same house.¡± She exined and my rage filled me once again.

    ¡°I mean, both your parents are getting married, they¡¯re already even married.¡± She added and I didn¡¯t want to hear another word.

    I closed my eyes as the thought of spending a day with Mason killed me, let alone the rest of our lives, I just can¡¯t do it. I stood to get myself a dessert and I was trying to figure out what to pick when I heard the voice I detested the most behind me.

    ¡°Move the fuck aside if you¡¯re to slow to pick something as simple as dessert. And don¡¯t pour the whole thing on the ground, knowing how clumsy you are. I¡¯d hate to have you ruin it.¡± He demanded and I felt the urge to strangle him.

    But because I had promised my mother not to cause another scene, I willed my anger away and collected myself before selecting a random vor of dessert.

    I took a deep breath as I turned around to regard him through myshes, one of my fake smiles ying across my lips.

    ¡°Stay away from me.¡±

 Chapter 6

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I woke up extremely early, I turned to look at my bedside rm and it turned out that it was still 5 AM. Making my way to the bathroom, I got ready for school.

    I was still mad about a lot of things. I wasn¡¯t mad at my mother¡¯s wedding, it¡¯s was the fact that, that jerk is now my step brother.

    Yuck.

    It didn¡¯t take me long to get ready for school. I was determined to not think about the new development of my life this morning, but it couldn¡¯t be helped.

    On my way to school, I still couldn¡¯t wrap my head around the fact that I was going to have to mow address that jerk as my  brother.

    I would rather walk on hot coal than do that.

    But, he really is going to be my brother and I wasn¡¯t sure I even have any other choice than to acknowledge him as that. I sighed as I took my seat in the ssroom, and the empty seat beside me was enough to instantly remind me of my best friend¡¯s absence.

    I missed her so much, if she were around right now, then I would¡¯ve had someone to vent to. She¡¯d missed the wedding too and I had to go with one of my other friends.

    ¡°Ava?!¡± I heard my name and a loud banging sound on the table and that made me jolt a little, returning back to reality in an instant. I hadn¡¯t been concentrating on the lecture, and history is one of my favorite subjects.

    Which is sign enough that my mind is very crowded today.

    ¡°I.. I¡¯m sorry Sir.¡± I stammered as I apologised and shook my head to shake the intruding thoughts out of it.

    ¡°Do you mind answering my previously asked question or would you love to leave the ss for people who really want to learn?¡± He asked and I opened my mouth to say something before he cut me off and added, ¡°What woman discovered the radium and polonium?¡± He asked again, answering the question I intended to ask, but recing it with another one.

    It was an easy one, especially since I was writing something about Radium and Polonium and had been reading on it for over a week.

    I stood up proudly to answer his question.

    ¡°That would be Marya Sk?odowska, also known as Marie Curry, she discovered polonium and radium, championed the use of radiation in medicine and fundamentally changed our understanding of radioactivity.¡± I answered proudly and it was easy to tell that the professor as impressed.

    ¡°That is correct.¡± He said to the ss in general before turning back to me, ¡°You had better concentrate or you risk failing this ss, it¡¯s not enough that you¡¯re intelligent, you need to be willing to learn, remember that you don¡¯t have any test score recorded for you.¡± He added and I nodded my head in agreement.

    ¡°Yes Sir.¡± I answered as he turned to leave my side, and once again, my mind went back to the fact that I hadpletely flunked the test about a week ago, thanks to the snake, Mason.

    If  I dare fail this ss, then my entire life is fucked because that¡¯s an automatic fail and I¡¯d have to take the course again.

    ¡®Ugh. I hate him so fucking much.¡¯ I angrily thought to myself as I propped myself up properly and flipped through my textbook, trying to keep up with the lecture.

    I had snapped at a few of my ssmates for just the littlest things after that, that even I can tell that my mood had gone from a five to a zero, and that I had arrived in  school grumpy today.

    ss was thankfully over after a little while and when I¡¯d made my way out of the ss my lecturer called me and I turned to answer.

    ¡°What is the matter?¡± He asked, ¡°Is something going on at home?¡± He added and I shook my head negatively.

    ¡°No Sir, there isn¡¯t. Why do you ask?¡±

    ¡°Because you weren¡¯t concentrating in ss today and that is unlike you, you usually pay heed to whatever is being taught and today just seemed as though you were lost in your own head.¡± He answered.

    He¡¯d taken his time to study me because he was right, I really had gotten lost in my head today.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Sir,¡± I apologised and he raised an eyebrow, probing me to exin myck of concentration, ¡°I have a terrible headache and I haven¡¯t been feeling too well.¡± I lied and it looked as though he bought it because he asked me to treat myself and take the amount of rest I needed before the next ss.

    I know he was only looking out for me, I am one of his best students and it only made sense that he didn¡¯t want me to fail his course.

    I voiced out my appreciation as I walked out of the ss and just then, one of the students saw it as the right time to bump into me without apologising, that was exactly what that idiot did, automatically reminding me of my encounter with Mason.

    ¡°Watch where you¡¯re going, punk!¡± I hissed angrily before walking off, heading to the coffee shop where I usually get my regr cup of coffee.

    I couldn¡¯t keep numbers of the people I¡¯d yelled at today before I got to the counter, which is why I wasn¡¯t surprised when I began to feel the telltale sign of the headache I¡¯d lied to my lecturer about.

    ¡°Why so grumpy?¡± The barista asked as he made me my usual cup of coffee without me having to ce in an order, I¡¯m a regr customer and he knew what I wanted already.

    ¡°I have tons of assignments I need to turn in and a lot of people seem to be getting on myst fucking nerve.¡± I answered as I took the cup of coffee from him and handed him the money with a little tip.

    ¡°I understand but you need to take it easy sometimes,¡± I advised and I nodded, ¡°Thanks for the tip and also, a big congrattions on your Mum¡¯s marriage.¡± He added and I smiled.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I said before walking out of the coffee shop.

    I got home and studied for a while before making myself dinner, my phone rang and I looked at the caller ID to see that it¡¯s my mum.

    ¡°Hey baby.¡± She called from over the phone and I couldn¡¯t help but let out a small smile. It was easy to tell how happy she was from the way she sounded.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I asked about her honeymoon and she seemed really excited to tell me everything about it.

    ¡°It¡¯s sweet, he really is a sweet man.¡± She answered happily and I signed happily, feeling genuine happiness course through my veins at that moment.

    ¡°I bet he is.¡± I replied and we spoke for a while before I decided to ask when she would be home.

    ¡°Tomorrow.¡± She  responded.

    I couldn¡¯t help but want her to return home. She was all I¡¯ve had in so long and I¡¯m so used to having her around me every damn time, so I missed her so terribly.

 Chapter 7

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I didn¡¯t have any ss tomorrow so that only meant that I could sleepte and wake up anytime I wanted. Although, my body is used to going to bedte and waking up extra early.

    I dropped the call with my mum and after a while of surfing the inte, I retired to bed to rest for a while. Closing my eyes, I soon fell asleep.

    The ray of the sun that made its way into my room made me shift ufortably on my bed. I should¡¯ve worn my eye mask before falling asleep, was the first thought that popped into my head.

    I reluctantly stood from the bed to drop the curtain and since I was up already, I decided I was going to use the rest of the day to do the few house choresying around. I cleaned up the house and made breakfast and just when I¡¯d finished making breakfast, I heard a knock on the door.

    Rushing to open the door, I found my mum standing there with a hat on and her bags in hand, while the rest of her things were behind her on the ground.

    ¡°Mum!¡± I shrieked as I threw myself into her arms, ¡°Wee home.¡± I added as I ushered her in and took the bag from her.

    We both made our way to the dining room and it was literally impossible to miss the excitement written all over my Mum¡¯s face.

    ¡°How was your trip?¡± I asked as I mentally prepared myself to get answers to questions that I didn¡¯t even ask plus the one I asked, and I didn¡¯t mind one bit.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°It was fun, we visited a lots of ces and you won¡¯t believe how extremely gentle and caring he is!¡± She answered, going into details and telling me all about how Danny did this and that and how he would usually bring her breakfast in bed.

    She wouldn¡¯t stop smiling as she spoke and I was extremely happy for her, it¡¯s been a while since I have seen her this happy since my dad.

    She¡¯s a really amazing woman and genuinely being loved once again has made her get this light glow back, which made her appear more gorgeous than she usually looks.

    ¡°Oh, before I forget,¡± she started as she stuffed her mouth with thest piece of pie on her te, ¡°We need to pack, you know we would have to live together with Danny, right?¡± She asked and I reluctantly nodded in response.

    I finished my breakfast and after doing the dishes, I made my way to my room with my mum as we both began to pack our bags. As we worked together, I urged her to tell me the remaining details about her honeymoon.

    We spoke as we filled the boxes with our things, the more I began to get more lost in my thoughts, and soon, I began to speak.

    ¡°Mum, can I talk to you about something?¡± I asked as I sat on the bed and braced myself up to ask my mother the question I already knew she would say no to.

    ¡°Yes, Princess. What¡¯s the matter?¡± She answered and followed up with another question of hers. Her worry immediately yed out on her face and I hastily assured her not to get too worked up that it wasn¡¯t something serious.

    ¡°What do you think about me living in the school dorm?¡± I tentatively asked and her countenance changed, I knew she hadn¡¯t been expecting me to ask that.

    ¡°Why? Don¡¯t you want to live  with Danny and I?¡± She asked in a low, worried tone and I bit my lower lip while shaking my head, as expected, she has started to take my question out of context.

    ¡°No,¡± I answered, ¡°That¡¯s not it. I just want to try somece new.¡± I lied through my teeth. ¡°Besides, you both just got married and I would hate to be that little thing that meddles with your affairs and intrudes.¡± Ipleted with a sigh and my mother shifted to sit properly beside me.

    ¡°Who said you were going to be intruding?¡± She asked, wrapping her arms around my neck and using her other hand to guide my face into her neck.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, I just, you know, want a change of environment.¡± I lied. I hated the thought of living in school dormitories and she knew that.

    ¡°Danny¡¯s ce is also a change of environment, remember? Besides, you¡¯ve always hated the thought of living a school dorm, what changed?¡± She asked and I swallowed hard while quickly trying toe up with a perfect answer.

    She would know if I lied so I resorted to saying the truth instead.

    ¡°Okay, Fine! Since you know me so well, I suggested the school dorm because I don¡¯t want to live in the same house as Mason! He gets on myst nerve and I¡¯m sure you already know how much I hate him.¡± I answered and after a while of silence my mother¡¯s echoingughter filled the space between us.

    ¡°What¡¯s funny?¡± I demanded, ¡°Nothing about what I¡¯d just said is funny so please, will you stopughing?¡± I asked as I rolled my eyes so hard that I could feel it at the back of my head.

    ¡°All this is about Mason?¡± She asked and I pursed my lips.

    ¡°Honey, look, I¡¯m sure the both of you would work it out and make up. I understand how hard it will be for you to wee a new family member at such short notice, talk less of two, but just give him a chance, hm? And also, hate is a strong word.¡± My mother lectured.

    ¡°You both are now siblings and I know Mason, he is very sweet and charming. He¡¯s really a good person, just like his father and if you get to know him, you¡¯d see that all that I¡¯m saying is nothing but the truth.¡± She added and I rolled my eyes again.

    I already saw thising anyways.

    I don¡¯t want to get to know him, he¡¯s the worst already!

    ¡°Don¡¯t try to change my mind about him, I know what I¡¯m feeling for him and it¡¯s nothing but hate. Hate is not too big a word for me.¡± I stated firmly, wrapping my arms against my chest as I scowled.

    ¡°Give him a chance, for my sake at least and I promise that as soon as you both start living together, you¡¯d soon be best friends.¡± She added, making me roll my eyes and snort.

    I stopped trying to make her change her mind  since she wouldn¡¯t understand anyways. I harbour too much hatred in my heart for me to forgive him all of a sudden, especially when he¡¯s yet to genuinely apologise to me.

    The stupid asshole.

    Night soon fell and we both made dinner together, and after that, we decided we were going to see a movie tonight for thest time before we get to move out, which is happening tomorrow.

    I made popcorn for us and we both watched the movie with my head on my mother¡¯s shoulder, starting from tomorrow it wouldn¡¯t be just the two of us anymore.

    We¡¯d be four in total.

    Three in total rather, because there¡¯s no way I¡¯d ever count Mason as my family.

    Never ever.

 Chapter 8

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The hustling and bustling of my mum moving the boxes we had packed together the previous night jolted me awake. I got up in time to get ready and assist with the packing. Getting ready to move, I made my way to the bathroom and freshened up before joining my mum outside to wait for Danny.

    I took a side nce at my mother before clearing my throat. I really wasn¡¯t happy about the new development, which is why I wished I hadn¡¯t told her about my hatred for school dormitories, then she¡¯d have definitely not have bated an eye at me asking her if I could go live there.

    ¡°Mum, just please. I¡¯ll get a good apartment, I¡¯ll move in with good people and you do know that you can trust me to take very good care of myself.¡± I tried to convince once again but I knew her mind was already made up when she let out a long sigh.

    ¡°Ava!¡± She called out in a small sigh and I immediately understood. My fate has been sealed and whether I like it or not, I¡¯m going to have to ept Danny as my stepfather. I genuinely had no problem with that, the problem was Mason.

    He has been the problem since the moment he collided.

    The honking of Danny¡¯s car when he pulled up in front of us brought me out of my head. I picked up the boxes and he¡¯d instantly offered to help, wrestling it out of my hold immediately and making me chuckle a little. We loaded the boxes into the trunk of his car and soon we were bidding our house goodbye.

    I¡¯m going to miss everything about the house, especially the freedom I had when I still lived there but I shrugged and soon joined both of them in the car, hoping that I wouldn¡¯t suddenly turn into a prisoner in Danny¡¯s house, or that he wouldn¡¯t ever stop loving my mum and treating her like a queen that she is.

    I didn¡¯t even pay attention to the ride until we arrived at our destination. I gasped when we stopped in the parking lot of a beautiful mansion. The house wasn¡¯t only big, it was beautiful with aesthetic colours blending together perfectly. I couldn¡¯t help but gawk at every single thing I saw.

    Danny obviously wasn¡¯t just rich.

    He was rich rich.

    ¡°Wee home.¡±  Danny said, wrapping his arms around my mum and lightly cing his other free hand on my shoulder as he smiled down at me. We had all alighted the car moments ago.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I smiled back before looking back at the house and we all began to walk in.

    ¡°I made sure your brother is home today, he said he had things to do but I insisted he stayed back to wee the new family.¡± Danny started to speak, oblivious to what Mason¡¯s name does to me.

    He hadn¡¯t even called his name this time, he called him my brother!

    I wanted to puke.

    ¡°Brother.¡± I scoffed under my breath. Never will I ept the fact that he¡¯s be my brother.

    I didn¡¯t know I¡¯d said it out loud until my mother and her new husband exchanged a nce and bursted outughing at once, making me roll my eyes.

    Why were they suddenlyughing? What the hell is funny now?

    ¡°Trust me, you¡¯ll get along well with Mason when you really get to know him and I¡¯m sure it wouldn¡¯t take long for the both of you to be inseparable.¡± Danny assured me.

    Why do they keep saying that? If only they understood the magnitude of hate I felt towards him. I opened my mouth to say something but I snapped it shut almost immediately.

    The most impossible thing that will ever happen on earth would be me getting along with Mason but no matter how hard I try to exin, they were never going to understand.

    We continued our walk inside the house with Danny ushering us in and there he was, standing right there at the top of the stairs in all of his asshole-ish glory.

    He slowly began to make his way down the stairs and I didn¡¯t even bother to hide the scowl on my face, since no one could see my face right now but him.

    A broad smile spread out on his face as he pulled my mother into a hug, and If I didn¡¯t know how vile he really was, I¡¯d have been instantly fooled.

    ¡°How was your trip?¡± He asked my mother in a warm voice as they broke the hug, outrightly ignoring me like I never existed.

    ¡°It was very pleasant. We couldn¡¯t wait to get here and Ava right here, couldn¡¯t wait to meet you again because ¨C¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s lying.¡± I chipped in without second thoughts and my mum and Danny chuckled light heartedly in response to what I had said, meanwhile, Mason look like he was attempting murder through a nonexistent telepathic ability with the way he was ring at me over my mum¡¯s head.

    ¡°Mason, could you please help your sister take her boxes up to her room?¡± Danny suddenly spoke, breaking the silence and I cringed at the word ¡®sister¡¯.

    Mason was equally horrified because a disgusted expression has now settled over his face.

    We both hated the titles.

    ¡°She¡¯s a big girl, I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll be fine on her own.¡± Mason replied and I scoffed. I didn¡¯t need his stupid help anyways.

    ¡°Mason?¡± His father called out firmly and it was easy to tell what he was trying to do. Danny and my mother were doing this intentionally so Mason and I would be able to bond or get to know each other better.

    Over my dead fucking body.

    ¡°He¡¯s right, I¡¯m fine. I can carry my boxes myself.¡± I protested but one look from my mother made me immediately swallow my protests, reluctantly agreeing to Mason helping me.

    I reluctantly handed some of the boxes to him and my skin crawled from just being that close to him. My palm itches and I wanted to either p him across his face or punch him but I couldn¡¯t do any of those out of the blue.

    Finally giving in to my urge, I made sure I mistakenly stepped on him as hard as I could as I walked past him and I heard him let out a low curse that made me smirk satisfactorily.

    We both headed upstairs to where my room was supposed to be and he roughly dropped the boxes in my room as soon as we were in it.

    After that, he pinned me with a hard re.

    ¡°You¡¯re not wee here.¡± He pointed out on a sneer and I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°Like I really want to be here,¡± I said on a scoff and then I folded my hands across my middle

    ¡°Don¡¯t expect me to call you my brother or have any form of rtionship with you because that will never happen!¡± I added and watched as he breathed out augh after that, making my re at him get more intense.

    ¡°Never will I ever let that happen, no matter how bad you want it to, you dumb ass.¡± Hemented and my jaw dropped open in shock while my  eyes widened.

    Did he just call me dumb?

    ¡°You know what, Shit face? I hate you so much. No one obviously likes you but they all pretend to, and you know why? It¡¯s because you¡¯re such an annoying stupid, asshole and a nonsensical human being!¡± I yelled and I could tell that he was taken aback by my retort.

    ¡°You¡¯re just being bitter¡­¡± He began to speak but I shook my head, walking past him and tugging the bedroom door open.

    ¡°Get out of my room!¡± I ordered with a twist of my lips.

    ¡°Get out of my house!¡± He snapped back and I scoffed.

    ¡°How clever.¡± I sneered and then I pointed outside the bedroom¡¯s door. ¡°Get. Out. Of. My. Bedroom.¡±

    His lips were set in a thin line as he made his way out of my room.

    ¡°Fuck you.¡± He threw at me from behind his shoulders.

    ¡°Fuck you too, asshole.¡±

    He turned to say something else but I mmed the door shut in his face without missing a beat.

    Jerk face.

 Chapter 9

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I unpacked my things and arranged my room to my taste, it took about an hour for me to be able to finally finish unpacking. I picked up my phone to check the time and it was 6:30 PM. I dialled my best friend¡¯s number again and as usual it went to voicemail.

    Perhaps the Inte connection in where she currently is is extremely shitty.

    I miss her a lot and if she were around, I would have told my mum to let me stay with her instead. I sighed as Iid back on the extremely big andfortable bed. The bed was two times bigger than my bed back at our old house and the bedroom was so spacious and stuck up, it almost made me feel grateful that my mother hadn¡¯t given Into my request to move into the school dorms.

    The bedroom had arge closet which was also stuck with a lot of high quality brand new clothes which I really favoured, all in my size. My mum must have definitely given him a hint in that aspect.

    I reminded myself to thank Danny for thatter today.

    The room also has a reading table, a new MacBookying atop it with my name atop it on a sticky note. A vanity mirror at the other side of the room, and so on. All in all, the entire bedroom was like I¡¯ve always envisioned my bedroom to be like in the future.

    I hadn¡¯t realised the said bedroom wasing to reality  sooner thanter.

    It wasn¡¯t long before I heard a knock on my door.

    ¡°Dinner is ready.¡± My mother announced with a smile, I could tell she was satisfied at howfortable I looked right now and how there¡¯s already a touch of myself all over the bedroom already.

    I slid out of my bed and walked towards her, throwing my arms around her and holding her tightly against me.

    ¡°This bedroom is everything, I love it.¡± I whispered earnestly and her chuckle filled my ear as she returned the hug.

    ¡°I know, right? He really went all out because he wanted to impress you and make you asfortable as possible.¡± Mum responded and I chuckled a little

    ¡°He has impressed me just fine.¡± I offered and she chuckled once again.

    ¡°Don¡¯t forget to let him know how much you love the bedroom.¡± She called out as she was leaving and I reassured her that I already nned on doing just that.

    ~~~

    The dining table was filled with the smell of different foods that made my stomach growl. I slid into the seat by my mother¡¯s side, onlyter realising that it put me in the direct line of Mason. The table only had four seats and there was nowhere I could shift to.

    Once again, I cursed my shitty luck.

    The thought of having to watch his face as I ate left a really unpleasant feeling in my stomach. Mason didn¡¯t look pleased by the seating arrangements, telling by the scowl on his face, which made me scoff beneath my breath and roll my eyes.

    We all sat in silence for a while, enjoying our meal. I thanked Danny for the bedroom and the gifts in it, and he was quick to assure me that I was weed and that Mason had been eager to help decorate the bedroom, but before Danny was done speaking, Mason was quick to point out that he had been forced to do the said ¡®helping¡¯.

    I red at Mason and give him the middle finger while cutting my chicken and he returned the gesture while lifting his ss of wine up.

    Anotherfortable silence settled over us until Danny finally decided to speak up and the peace I felt vanished immediately.

    ¡°So,¡± he started, ¡°How¡¯s the bonding going?¡± He asked and I dropped my fork.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s going just fine, leaving me with the immense urge to gauge his eyes out everytime.¡± I spoke in a sweet voice and Mason only shook his head and scoffed.

    ¡°Oh dear Ava, how much will I love to return the favour, hm?¡± He retorted and I snorted.

    ¡°I said it earlier on, nonsensical.¡± I added as I chewed on my steak.

    We were about to get into another round of argument when the roaring sound of our parents¡¯ughter made us stop.

    ¡°What is funny?!¡± We both demanded in unison and shot each other a deadly re but that only made our parents¡¯ughter grow louder.

    I was  fuming over here, seriously mad about the fact that I would always have to see his face and my mum, along with his father, wereughing like it was the funniest thing ever.

    Mason had a calm look on his face when I nced at him and I pursed my lips. I really wish I could strangle him right now, in order to wipe that smug look off his face.

    He sneered at me but I ignored him. We both continued our dinner as we ignored each other and I was grateful for that.

    ¡°Where are you going, young woman?¡± My mother asked when I stood to take my leave with my tes in hand.

    ¡°To wash my dishes and then bed.¡± I answered, not quite sure what she meant by her question.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.

    ¡°We¡¯re done too, aren¡¯t we?¡± She asked Danny, who only nodded and took the napkin to dab the side of his mouth, ¡°You and your brother can do the dishes together, right Mason?¡± She added and I could hear myself screaming internally.

    I don¡¯t know how much tolerance I have left in me before I explode from her referring to him as my brother.

    Not saying a word, he picked up the dishes and I reluctantly followed closely behind him.

    I was loading the dishes into the dishwasher when a suddenly startled in order not to drop a te.

    ¡°Don¡¯t step on me!¡± He shot at me and I shot him an irritated look.

    ¡°I should be saying that to you instead, you know? Since you have a nice reputation of running into people and ming them for your own wrong.¡± I shot back as I stacked the dishwasher with the dishes, with more force than was required.

    ¡°I don¡¯t get how in your head you are, you could just apologise, or pretend to, at least, even though I¡¯m definitely not going to ept it¨C  because you¡¯re a total jerk.¡±

    ¡°How delusional and stupid can a person be?¡± He asked rhetorically and I gritted my teeth in anger.

    ¡°Expecting an apology from me is just dumb because it wasn¡¯t my fault you weren¡¯t looking at where you were going to in the first ce!¡± He added and I scoffed in disbelief.

    I stared at him from head to his toe and everything about him was making me angry for no actual reason. His hair framed his face and curled over his ears, catching the kitchen¡¯s lights perfectly.

    ¡°Trying to talk to, and get you to act right is just pointless.¡± I finally said as I wiped my wet hands with the towel and dumped it on the counter and made to leave.

    ¡°Like I need your dumb help to act right. I think you need my help more, because you know? To prevent you from walking into people and then ming them for it.¡± He retorted and I stopped In my tracks, I bit my lower lip and tried toe up with something to say, but when I got nothing, I breathed out a sigh and flipped him off before turning around and exiting the kitchen.

    I took a quick shower and burrowed into my bed. I was about to retire for the night when the unexpected suddenly happened.

    The floor of my bedroom along with the walls began to vibrate with a very loud music which was ying from the room next to mine.

    I didn¡¯t need anyone to tell me who that room belonged to. It obviously belonged to Mason.

    The music was so loud that it didn¡¯t take long for my head to begin to hurt.

    I groaned in annoyance as I tossed and turned in my bed.

    I contemted walking to his bedroom to tell him about how much his loud music was disturbing me but I knew it would be a bad idea, and it would obviously stroke his ego that I was already giving in so easily.

    I stood up and made my way to the bathroom to pee. On returning, it felt like the music had tripled in bass.

    I kept turning and groaning, covering my ears with the pillows before finally deciding to put my headphones on since they were noise cancelling.

    I let out a sigh of relief when I could barely hear the noise from his stupid ring music anymore.

    As I slowly fell asleep, I wondered if it would make me a bad person if I go pick a knife from the kitchen and stab him with it.

 Chapter 10

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I groaned as I sat up on my bed the next morning. it wasfortable and I wished I didn¡¯t have to leave it. I took another nce around my room and I smiled fondly.

    I loved everything about my new bedroom, the space, the brightness, the aesthetics, and the interior, along with everything in it. Everything about it is just so appealing to me, except of course for Mason.

    The thought of him made me frown and I hissed and rolled my eyes at the thought. He wasn¡¯t only bugging my life, he was also hell bent on invading my dream, telling from the stupid music stunt he had yedst night. I ran my fingers through my hair as I tried to brush the thought of him to the back of my head.

    I¡¯m not going to let someone as stupid and irrelevant as him ruin my day!

    Turning to my bedside table, I picked up my phone and went through my reminders. I have two sses to attend today, one of which isn¡¯t my best ss.

    I stood up from the bed and made my way to the bathroom, freshening up and getting ready for school. I picked out a ck crop top with a pair of blue jeans to match, letting my hair fall on my mid back. I dabbed on a little lip gloss and eyeliner before making my way out of the room.

    Walking down the stairs, I had wanted to get myself a bowl of cereal for breakfast when the farmr smell of toast and eggs filled up my nostrils.

    ¡°Good Morning!¡± I greeted them loudly on stepping into the dining area. My mother and Danny wereughing at something one of them had said and neither of them noticed my presence until I spoke.

    ¡°Good Morning baby girl,¡± My mum breathed out warmly, ¡°Good morning Ava.¡± Danny also echoed right after and I smiled.

    I loved the energy around the house so far and I made my way to one of the empty chairs, sinking into it to eat my breakfast which had already been set. They continued whispering quietly between each other, making me feel like such a third wheel, and soon, they bursted outughing.

    ¡°What¡¯s funny?¡± I demanded,ughing a little even though I had no idea what was funny as I picked up my toast and took a bite.

    ¡°Nothing really, we were just talking about random things.¡± My mum replied and I shrugged, ¡°Oh, before I forget darling, could you go with me to the store? We need groceries.¡± She added with her usual pout that always makes her look like a baby.

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry,¡± I apologised, my face falling as I spoke, ¡°I have sses today and I really cannot afford to miss them. I¡¯m working towards pushing my grades higher so you¡¯ll be proud of me.¡± I added and she smiled.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.

    ¡°I¡¯m always proud of you regardless of your grades, sweetheart. I just miss shopping with you.¡± She said and Iughed proudly as I concentrated on my toast.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, let her go to school and I¡¯ll drive you to the grocery store.¡± Danny suggested and my mum eagerly agreed to go with him.

    Just like her, I also missed going grocery shopping with my mum and I had made up my mind to make it up to her soon.

    ¡°Good Morning.¡± I heard a familiar and annoying husky voice echo from the entrance of the dining room, and automatically, my entire day has gotten ruined. I was hoping I wouldn¡¯t have to see him this morning, but I wasn¡¯t even all that surprised that this is currently happening because, when has the universe really been on my side?

    I nced back at him and honestly hated how good he looked so early in the morning..

    ¡°Wash your hands, geez.¡± I muttered when he proceeded to pick one of the toast as he sat beside me. Intentionally bumping me with his shoulders, which only got more and more annoyed.

    ¡°How was your night? Slept well?¡± He asked our parents and I rolled my eyes, knowing he was trying to refer to the fact that he had nned to keep me up throughout the night with his stupidity loud music.

    ¡°Stupid fucking dumbass.¡± I swore beneath my breath as I lowered my head to continue eating. Everything about him just irritated me more and more, making me dislike him further.

    I took a side nce at him and hissed again.

    ¡°Mason, why don¡¯t you drive your sister to school today?¡± Danny asked and I whipped my head back around to look at him.

    ¡°You know, she doesn¡¯t know the way from the new house yet and you have a car.¡± He added and Mason and I both spoke at once.

    ¡°NO!¡± We both echoed out in unison and I turned to look at him, shooting him an annoyed re.

    The sound of my mum¡¯sughter got me angrier..

    ¡°C¡¯mon Ava. Let him take you, I¡¯m sure he doesn¡¯t mind.¡± Danny started.

    ¡°Oh, I do. I mind, trust me.¡± Mason butted in but stopped talking when Danny cleared his throat.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I can take the bus.¡± I protested, hissing at Mason and praying they would allow me to take the bus.

    ¡°Ava?¡± My mother cautioned, ¡°Please Mason, just drive her to school till she can find herself a ride or figure out the way from here.¡± My mother pleaded and I sighed in surrender.

    ¡°Don¡¯t get used to this. I really don¡¯t want to have you in my car because I know you¡¯ll ruin it.¡± He whispered low enough that both our parents couldn¡¯t hear him but loud enough for me to hear him.

    I red at him as I continued to eat even though I¡¯ve unsurprisingly lost my appetite. I ate the rest of my toast in anger and nced at my my mum and her husband having the best time of their lives.

    They were talking, smiling and joking around, oblivious to the fact that Mason and I were at the verge of killing each other.

    Mason finally stood to leave the table and I also reluctantly stood up to follow him since I had no other choice than to allow him to drive me to school.

    We don¡¯t even go to the same school for heaven¡¯s sake.

    ¡°Bye.¡± I called out as I exited the dining room and they said theirs in return. I walked out of the house to meet Mason waiting for me in his car, while ring at me like I had wasted his whole time while making him wait for me, when that hadn¡¯t been the case at all.

    This is going to be one of the worst day of my life, I can already feel it.

 Chapter 11

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°We don¡¯t have the whole day, stop making me wait!¡± I heard Mason yell as he honked the car persistently, making me groan with an eye roll as I shuffled towards the car.

    Each step I took was heavy because I didn¡¯t imagine myself sharing a car ride to school with this jerk this morning. I grudgingly got to the car and pulled the door open with more force than was required. As soon as I slid into the seat, I mmed the door so hard on purpose.

    ¡°Are you crazy? Do your clumsy ass wanna damage my car the same way you made those coffee ruin my shoes that morning? Let me guess, you¡¯d go ahead and me me for that if that happens because that¡¯s just you.¡± He snapped out, face morphed in a hard scowl.

    ¡°Stop yelling my head off, you jerk! You can just drop me off halfway and I¡¯ll find my way to school from there. I never wanted to ride to school in your stupid ass car in the first ce!¡± I snapped back, shifting in the insanely soft seat and noticing how good the car smelt, and how it smelt so much like Mason.

    ¡°If anyone¡¯s being a jerk about anything then that¡¯s definitely going to be you.¡± Hemented and I opened my mouth to speak but whatever I wanted to say got stuck in my throat when the sudden loud ring sound of music began to re  from the radio unexpectedly.

    Shocked by the sudden sound, I scoffed and reached out  to turn the volume down but as soon as I did that, he turned it back up.

    ¡°It¡¯s too fucking loud! it¡¯s making my ear bleed, and your music taste is so ass.¡± I shouted over the loud music and he onlyughed.

    ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡± I demanded angrily. ¡°This was the exact same reason I couldn¡¯t get my beauty sleepst night. BECAUSE YOUR STUPID MUSIC WAS SO LOUD,¡¯ I WAS UNABLE TO SLEEP properly!¡± I yelled but he continued tough, getting on my nerves ever more.

    Can my day get any worse?

    ¡°I don¡¯t take orders from you or anyone and if you don¡¯t like the kind of music I y, or how loud I y them, then I can pull over for you to just get the hell out of my car and get yourself to school by yourself!¡± He shot back at me and I breathed out a long sigh.

    I wasn¡¯t surprised by his response, he was naturally rude even in situations which are obvious enough that he¡¯s in the wrong.

    ¡°How can a person be so harsh and inconsiderate,¡± I shot back at him again, ¡°You know how loud the music is and it hurts the ears but you won¡¯t ever listen to anyone except yourself, because you¡¯re so fucking arrogant!¡± I added and he stopped the music then leveled me with a re.

    ¡°Listen here, Ava; I don¡¯t care if you¡¯re ufortable by my music or the high volume, that¡¯s your problem and yours to deal with. Remember that I didn¡¯t ask you toe ride with me in the first ce. If you¡¯re really ufortable then you might as well just get the hell out, hm?¡± He added, clearly waiting for an indication that I had heard all what he had just said.

    After a few minutes passed with him still regarding me with a raised eyebrow, I checked my phone to see the time and I realised that if I chose to be rebellious by alighting his car in anger, I¡¯ll bete for my sses.

    After a few more long moments, I forced the next word out.

    ¡°Fine.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I thought.¡± He hissed out and when I didn¡¯t say anything else, he turned his music back up and continued to drive once again.

    ¡°Bitch.¡± I said under my breath as I brought out my AirPods and shoved them into my ears to block the noise out.

    I closed my eyes shut in anger as I thought about how unfortunate it is for me to have a supposed step brother in Mason of all people.

    We finally arrived at my school but I had no idea because my eyes were shut. It wasn¡¯t until Mason pulled one of my AirPods out of my ear that I realized.

    ¡°We¡¯re here, get out.¡± He said and yanked my AirPods from him and sneered at him. I packed my AirPods and picked my bag off my thighs, and then I existed his car.

    I left the door open on purpose, ignoring him swearing at me and demanding that Ie back to shut the door.

    Haha! Take that, asshole.

    ¡°Ava!¡± I heard a familiar voice call out. I wasn¡¯t expecting to hear that voice anytime soon in person and so it took me by surprise. I turned around and almost immediately, I noticed Nicole running towards me, and I felt a wide smile spread out on my face, all thoughts of how annoying Mason was instantly forgotten.

    ¡°Nicole!¡± I cried out as we threw ourselves at each other in a hug. I melted into her arms as she squeezed me tightly. Nicole¡¯s hugs were one of my favourite things in the world and I¡¯ve missed it so much. It was evident that she missed me just as much with the way she was bouncing on her feet after we broke the hug to silently regard each other.

    Her blonde hair was in curls that made her look more gorgeous than I remembered her being. Her green eyes caught the sun light as she smiled and I couldn¡¯t help but tug her into another hug once again.

    ¡°Oh my gosh, you look so goodddd!¡± I chanted, eyes ghosting over the ck red skirt she had on with mid length brown colored boots. She paired those with a dark blue sleeveless jeans jacket, and a long sleeved turtleneck underneath that.

    One thing about Nicole is that she always dresses to kill every damn time, even though it¡¯s just for school.

    One of her favourite line was ¡®the school is every young girl¡¯s broadway. So, take that chance and y your way through it¡¯.

    ¡°Oh my god. I missed you so much.¡± I gushed out as I reached out to take her hands in mine, and she held on tightly instantly.

    ¡°I missed you so much more and God, I can¡¯t wait to catch you up on a whole lot of things.¡± She breathed out eagerly and just then, Ryan appeared behind her, sporting his usual pair of sunsses over his eyes.

    ¡°Hi Ava.¡± He greeted me with a wave and I smiled back at him.

    ¡°Hey Ryan.¡± I answered with a wave, noticing how it seems like he and Nicole decided to match today, because their outfits looked alike, down to the colours.

    Nicole and Ryan have been dating for over a year and I am one of their biggest fans. He treats her so well and I loved that so much for Nicole.

    It didn¡¯t take long for us to begin to make our way deeper into the school while being lost in more than one conversation.

    ¡°Also, I wanted to tell you something,¡± Nicole started with a smile looking excited, ¡°Ryan and I will be throwing a party soon and we wanted to invite you personally. The entire school will be there.¡± She added and I groaned.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­¡± I started to say sceptically.

    I have always hated parties and knowing that the entire school would be present at the party, made me hate the particr idea of this party some more.

    I hated putting myself in spotlights like that.

    ¡°C¡¯mon Ava. Don¡¯t be a party pooper.¡± Nicole groaned as she leaned against the wall, handsnding on her hips.

    I thought about it for a while and I realised that it would be an opportunity for me to not be around Mason back at my new home, or get into another fight with him. I needed a break from him and I just wanted to stay very far away from him.

    Thinking about it for a while, I remembered how my mum would always tell me to go to parties to have fun and make more friends. I bit on my lips and thought about it some more.

    ¡°Okay, Fine! I¡¯ll go¡± I groaned out and watched as Nicole cheered.

    ¡°I¡¯ll tag along but on one condition.¡± I added and her face fell again.

    ¡°What condition?¡± She asked,ing to stand beside me and taking my arm in hers.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.

    ¡°That you won¡¯t leave me alone at the party. I know how popr you are and you might eventually forget about me.¡± I started and she smiled.

    ¡°You know I can never do that. By the way, I missed you so much. I have so much to talk about with you.¡± She added and after a while of talking and walking, she turned around to kiss Ryan goodbye since we¡¯re already at his faculty.

    We continued to walk towards our faculty. Nicole and I are taking the same course, and shared almost all sses together.

    I wasn¡¯t sure if I made the right decision by agreeing to attend the party.

    I guess I¡¯ll find out tonight.

 Chapter 12

    Ava¡¯s POV

    It felt as though time was against me. I hated the ss I was having but I have to sit here and listen and pretend I care about Geography.

    My silent prayer got answered when the ss ended and I couldn¡¯t be anymore grateful. I hastily packed up my belongings and left the ss with Nicole.

    ¡°Hey. What were you going to tell me before we went to ss?¡± She asked and my mouth opened in realisation. I had been about to break the news of my mum being married to the father of my worst enemy on earth before the lecturer arrived in ss, but now, I wasn¡¯t mentally prepared to talk about everything just yet.

    ¡°You know what? Let¡¯s talk about itter.¡± I said, tugging my bag over my shoulders more properly.

    ¡°Fair enough,¡± Nicole shrugged and I let out a small sigh of relief, d that she didn¡¯t push it. Talking about Mason right now will only stress me out and make me get into a bad mood, which I¡¯d rather not have right now.

    And besides, I¡¯m going to this party because I wanted to be away from him as much as possible, so talking about him kind of defeats that purpose.

    ¡°Hey, what do you say? You go home with me and I get to dress you up for the party this evening?¡± She started as she looked at me up and down and I could immediately tell what the problem was.

    ¡°Why? Is anything wrong with the way I dress? I can dress myself up just fine.¡±

    ¡°Oh, no, I never said you couldn¡¯t dress yourself. I only said I wanna dress you up for it, because I don¡¯t want to go to a party with Hermione Granger from Harry Potter. If I want that to happen, then I¡¯ll let you go with me like this.¡± She said, referring to my favourite movie character.

    ¡°Hey!¡± I argued, ¡°There is absolutely nothing wrong with Hermione, she is smart, intelligent, hot, fucking pretty and a very brilliantdy!¡± I added, defending my favourite character while Nicole only rolled her eyes.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Either way, you¡¯re going home with me and I¡¯m dressing you up.¡± She added, standing her ground which made me roll my eyes in surrender..

    ¡°Besides, you need a man. You need to feel loved and you need a man to make that happen to you.¡± She added on a chuckle, throwing a jab at my loneliness.

    ¡°You do know that I¡¯m only going to this party because I don¡¯t want to be stuck at home tonight, right?¡± I asked as we both walked towards her car and got in.

    ¡°And you do know that I¡¯m suggesting dressing you up because I don¡¯t want you to go to the party looking like a nerd, right?¡± She answered with a question of hers and we both burst outughing after a few seconds of locking gazes.

    The drive to her house wasn¡¯t silent or calm. It was loud, chaotic and so much fun. We sang along to the songs ying on the radio and talked about a lot of random things.

    We got to her house and Nicole didn¡¯t waste any time in picking out the perfect outfit for me. It was never hard to wear each other¡¯s clothes because we both had the same body type. I took a shower before dressing up in the outfitid out for me.

    It was a pair of leather pants which made my ass and hips pop out well, outlining my curves and drawing attention to the smallness of my waist¨C which was then paired with a small sparkly silver top which had no back, safe for the ropes holding it together at the back. She had also provided a pair of leather boots to match and a silver purse that went perfectly with my top.

    I knew I looked hot as hell even before I nced into the mirror. This usually wasn¡¯t my style, but it didn¡¯t mean I couldn¡¯t pull it off when needed.

    Nicole hooted once she waltzed back into the bedroom, and almost immediately, I sat down for her to do my makeup.

    I picked up my phone to call my mum in order to  inform her about the party with Nicole. She picked up on the sending ring.

    ¡°Hey baby, what¡¯s wrong?¡± She inquired earnestly and I rolled my eyes before proceeding to tell her about the party.

    ¡°Have fun baby girl, you need it anyways.¡± My mothers voice kept ringing in my head long after I had ended the call with her.

    She was right. I needed the fun, I needed to live a little.

    Nicole and I were soon ready for the party.  It wasn¡¯t long before Ryan came to pick us both up, looking really good in a tight pair of jeans and a brown top that matched his hair. The party was happening at his house and on arriving,  I hadn¡¯t expected to see as many guests as I saw.

    Young adults and teenagers with a red cups filled up everywhere as they all danced and drank at once. A lot of things were happening at once, making me feel a little overwhelmed.

    Some people took different spots on the wall, huddled together, doing their own things. Some were making out while some wereughing and drinking. Some were lost to the music, drinking, smoking and grinding hard to the music.

    I wrinkled my nose in distaste as I nced around once again. Ryan handed to cups of drink to Nicole and I. Nicole threw her drink back at once while I slightly sniffed mine before taking a sip.

    Drinking wasn¡¯t new to me. But drinking in a party, where a drink could be easily spiked, was hard and new territory for me.

    Nicole and I made our way to sit in a part where it seems like everyone was still sober.

    I tried to rx, knowing that the only way I¡¯d have fun tonight, is if I losen up.

    I could feel a lot of gazes on me. Since the moment I stepped in here, rather.

    The gazes made me feel he ufortable.

    ¡°Let¡¯s y a game.¡± One of them suggested it after about thirty minutes and it didn¡¯t take long for everyone to agree to y it, once the suggestion was done exining the rules of the game to the group.

    It was a truth or dare game, a cup was being passed around and whoever the cupnded on when the music stopped would be asked a question of dared to do something.

    It wasn¡¯t long before the cupnded on me and I closed my eyes to take a moment to regreting to the party. I took a look at Nicole who onlyughed and cheered me on.

    Typical of her. This is her scene, and she¡¯s currently having the best time right now.

    Unlike me who couldn¡¯t wait to get home.

    That¡¯s what I get for being best friends with a party animal.

    ¡°Okay, what am I going to do now?¡± I asked and the group fell silent as they all thought of the suitable question to ask me or the perfect dare.

    ¡°I dare you to go up to the guy standing by the pole and kiss him for at-least 20 seconds.¡± One of the girls said and my eyes widened while the rest of the group hooted and pped their hands excitedly.

    I nced at Nicole who only nodded at me encouragingly.

    I thought about it for a while and contemting refusing to do the game, but I didn¡¯t want to take another shot because I didn¡¯t wanna get drunk tonight, and neither do I have a hundred bucks to waste on a silly game.

    I propped myself up properly and walked as proudly as I could to the guy I have been dared to kiss someone from. I acted like I wasn¡¯t fazed, but deep down, I was very much fazed.

    I never imagined myself kissing a random person at this party tonight.

    But, oh well.

    My jaw dropped and my eyes widened in shock when I saw the face of the guy I had been dared to kiss. He had been backing us before but now that he had suddenly turned around, I couldn¡¯t help but do a double take.

    What the hell is Mason doing here?

    He had a pair of cigarette hanging off the side of his lips and a cup of drink was cradled in his left hand.

    Nah ah, there¡¯s no way. I¡¯m taking the fucking shot then. I said to myself as I turned away from him, attempting to head back to the group I had been previously ying a game with.

    Mason probably also noticed me at thest moment because as soon as I turned to leave, his hand shot out from nowhere to grip my bare arm. His hold was firm, right and so fucking cold.

    Anger shed in my eyes in the next instant.

    ¡°What the fuck are you doing? Are you insane?¡± I screeched into his face, the loud music prevented my voice from getting further than his ears.

    I angrily jerked out of his grip and watched in distaste as he removed the cigarette from his mouth and stubbed the light out on a nearby astray.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.

    ¡°Does your mum know you¡¯re out here ying stupid, dumb games with guys and girls that have no idea what they want to do with their lives?¡± He asked and I could feel the anger in me bubble up more and more.

    ¡°Does your dad know you¡¯re out here smoking your life away?¡± I shot back without wasting time, making his mouth Jang open for a few seconds.

    I whirled around, about to make my way back to the group I had been sitting with, but couldn¡¯t because he grabbed me once again.

    He leaned down and hovered his mouth over my ear, and as he spoke, his hot breath hit my ear and bare neck, making me begin to suddenly feel very hot

    ¡°One word about this from you to my dad and I¡¯ll make sure you regret it.¡± He threatened before releasing me. The smell of cigarettes still lingered around his breath and I wrinkled my nose in distaste before rolling my eyes and turning away from him.

    He didn¡¯t try to stop me again.

    I walked back to the group in anger and took not a shot but a full gulp of the drink. Everyone in the group were all looking at me, they had probably witnessed the exchange I had with Mason and even though they didn¡¯t hear a word of it, they all had eyes.

    As the night progressed, the angrier I got. To think I had been nning on rxing here at the party, not knowing that the biggest inconvenience in my life was here in the party with me.

    To think I had agreed toe to the party because I wanted to be away from Mason tonight.

    Trust the universe to not be on my side every damn time that it isn¡¯t even surprising any longer.

 Chapter 13

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°Ava!¡± Nicole¡¯s voice echoed faintly behind me, but I ignored it at first, choosing to keep walking forward. She easily caught up with me.

    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you? Why did you leave like that?¡± She demanded while sucking in deep breaths.

    Why did I have to see him?

    Why did he have to show up here, out of nowhere?

    Is he friends with Ryan?

    I had seeded in keeping him far away from my thoughts, but then he just had to be the guy I had been dared to go kiss.

    As if I¡¯d ever kiss him. I¡¯d rather die than to do something like that.

    I huffed out an irritated breath and delivered a kick to the innocent trash can positioned a few inches from where Nicole and I were currently standing.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you do the dare?¡± She asked and I felt myself getting worked up all over again. Of all the questions she could¡¯ve asked me, she really chose to go with why I didn¡¯t do the dare?

    ¡°Look Ava, this is what a party is all about, you should learn to live a little and the only opportunity for you to do that at parties like this is to kiss random strangers and drink. It¡¯s a party for fucks sake and not a chapel!¡± She added in a yell. She was obviously angry, perhaps because I might¡¯ve embarrassed her in there by refusing to do the dare.

    I couldn¡¯t stop myself from rolling my eyes in irritation.

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t in the mood to kiss strangers and that was why I took the shot, I did my bit, why are you mad?¡± I demanded, and then I folded my hands over my chest before continuing.

    ¡°And stop fucking yelling at me, Nicole. I can opt out of a damn dare whenever I want to. It¡¯s a game after all, not a matter of life and death.¡±

    Without waiting for a response, I nced around for a spot to sit, sinking down as soon ss I found one..

    ¡°Well, you stood. You obviously wanted to do it at first and I don¡¯t know what the hell happened back there with that guy but you spent minuets with him, without fucking doing the dare.¡±

    I rolled my eyes but remained silent.

    So everyone in the group hadn¡¯t even realized that Mason and I were involved in an argument back then, when I had been thinking it had been obvious enough.

    ¡°You both stood for minutes, do you know him? What were you both talking about? Did he say something to you?¡± She continued after a few moments, making me let out a small scoff.

    I took a long nce at my best friend and I knew she wouldn¡¯t drop this topic until I told her everything she clearly wants to know.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    ¡°Fine,¡± I breathed out, ¡°You remember my mum recently got married, right?¡± I asked and she nodded affirmatively. I had texted her about it even though she wasn¡¯t avable to attend.

    ¡°Okay so, her husband has a grown up son that lives with us in the same house now so we basically stay together like families.¡± I added, trying my best to exin the situation in the best possible way I could, but it seemed like Nicole wasn¡¯t really getting it with the way she was blinking at me in confusion.

    ¡°So now, I live with my mum, her husband and his son.¡± I added after a few moments, hoping to lift her confusion, but It seems like I might¡¯ve confused her even more because she raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°Okay?¡± Sheter began to speak, ¡°I don¡¯t know where all this is heading to, or how your mum¡¯s marriage is rted to the party we¡¯re currently talking about right now.¡± She breathed out, looking confused as ever.

    ¡°Okay,¡± I started. Taking a strand of my hair and tucking it behind my ear, I shifted a little before beginning to speak. ¡°I¡¯ll make you understand.¡±

    ¡°Right, you do remember the incident I texted you about, the one that happened that made me miss my test. That was before the whole wedding thing, remember? I asked.

    Nicole looked lost for a moment but she soon remembered what I was talking about.

    ¡°Ohh, I do. I got the text. You couldn¡¯t turn in your presentation and automatically did horribly in your test. I can never forget about the asshole that made you go through all that.¡± She finally breathed out and I snickered.

    ¡°Right, the guy I got dared to kiss. The one back in there, was the same asshole that made all that happen to me.¡± I answered and Nicole gasped.

    Not hearing what I wanted to say next, she stood up and was almost running back to the party. I knew what she was about to go do next and it would only end in disaster if I didn¡¯t stop her.

    I pulled her back and she almost tripped the both of us. She looked really furious and I wouldn¡¯t put it past her to go causemotion in the party should I let go of her right now.

    One thing about Nicole was that she¡¯d always stand up for me anywhere and anytime.

    ¡°Why the fuck are you stopping me?¡± She asked, yanking her arms away from my grasp, ¡°I¡¯m gonna go in there right now to go talk some sense into his dry and empty brain of his. You just watch.¡± She added as she turned again but I pulled her back.

    ¡°Calm down, that¡¯s not even the problem, there¡¯s still a more shocking part to the story and you haven¡¯t even heard it.¡± I said, fueling her curiosity and making her calm enough to listen to me.

    ¡°What else is the problem? You got zero recorded into your records because of that asshole and you¡¯re telling me there¡¯s an even bigger problem than this?¡± She asked, her anger evident in her voice as she spoke.

    ¡°I¡¯m gonna go back in there and you won¡¯t stop me. He made your grade drop because of his silly act and he couldn¡¯t apologise, and he had the audacity he got you all worked up because you were dared to kiss him? Oh, hell no¡­.¡± She added.

    I closed my eyes in frustration as I listened to her speak. She wasn¡¯t giving me the chance to talk as she kept on ranting about how rude Mason was to me, she hadn¡¯t listened to the shocking part and I knew it would blow her mind.

    ¡°HE¡¯S MY STEP BROTHER!¡± I yelled and she stopped talking at once.

    ¡°What?¡± She asked in disbelief.

    ¡°That same asshole back there is my mum¡¯s new husband¡¯s son and in other words, my step brother.¡±

 Chapter 14

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I watched the anger on Nicole¡¯s face disappear, to be reced with disbelief as she bursted outughing.

    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re kidding, right?¡± She asked with a raised eyebrow and I rolled my eyes, ¡°He? Your step brother?¡± She added after a moment, probably expecting to say ¡®sold¡¯ or something.

    Nicoleughed for a moment as if I had suddenly gone crazy or waa saying something I wasn¡¯t sure about.

    ¡°Are you really telling me that the guy back there is your step brother?¡± She asked again and I rolled my eyes in irritation , leveling her with a t look.

    ¡°Are you insinuating that I don¡¯t know what I¡¯m talking about? Or that I have forgotten what being a step brother means?¡± I demanded with an eyeroll.

    That made her realize just how serious I was.

    ¡°Oh my goodness, you¡¯re actually being serious,¡± She whispered, covering her mouth with her palm and I scoffed.

    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t worry.¡± She added as she walked closer to me and patted my back softly.

    ¡°What do you mean don¡¯t worry?¡± I asked, not quite understanding what she meant.

    ¡°Because I¡¯m now a part of this and together, we will make his life a living hell.¡± She affirmed and I found myself smiling slowly at what she said.

    ¡°Thank you! I knew you would understand the minute I exined it all to you.¡± I said as I heaved a sigh of relief and Nicole smiled as she sant into the spot beside me to pull me into a hug.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be honest with you though, when I saw him, I honestly thought he was good looking and I imagined what it would feel like to have a fast quickie with him.¡± She whispered and I regarded her judgementally as my stomach twisted in disgust.

    I pulled away from Nicole for a while and I gagged while trying toprehend what she had just confessed.

    I could have continued my life without knowing about that just fine.

    ¡°Mason? Good looking?¡± I scoffed, even though deep down, I really couldn¡¯t deny the fact that I had thought he looked good for a fleeting moment this morning.

    ¡°Yeah, No,¡± she argued and I raised an eyebrow and she immediately knew what I meant, ¡°I mean, anyone would think that too.¡± She added and I shook my head.

    ¡°No one that has a boyfriend would think that.¡± I argued and she rolled her eyes at that.

    ¡°C¡¯mon, you know damn well that I love Ryan.¡± She added and I scoffed yfully next.

    Weughed and spoke for a while until the loud ringing of Nicole¡¯s phone stopped the moment. She turned it over to see who it was and we both saw Ryan¡¯s name on the screen.

    ¡°Hey baby.¡± She said into the phone and I had no idea what they were talking about but it was easy for me to tell that Ryan had been searching all over for us.

    ¡°We¡¯re not kids, we can take care of ourselves baby.¡± Nicole said into the phone and Iughed.

    ¡°Look, we won¡¯t being back in there¡­¡± She was saying before I snatched the phone from her and ced it against my ear. I knew she was about to tell Ryan that we weren¡¯ting back to the party because of me, but I didn¡¯t want her missing out on all of the fun because of me.

    ¡°We¡¯re by the road side and waiting for you.¡± I said into the phone as Ryan voiced out his appreciation and I handed the phone back over to Nicole.

    ¡°Why did you ask him toe? We could¡¯ve gone home together.¡± She whined and Iughed.

    ¡°Because he would being for you and not me,¡± I answered, ¡°You¡¯re not about to miss out on all the fun at the party you couldn¡¯t stop talking about during lectures today.¡± I added, watching her face fall a little.

    ¡°C¡¯mon. I¡¯m only going home to do my assignments. It won¡¯t be as fun as being at the party. I¡¯m a responsible, nerdy person, whereas you¡¯re theplete opposite.¡± I added to make her feel better and I knew I achieved that when sheughed a little.

    It didn¡¯t take long for Ryan to show up and I couldn¡¯t be anymore grateful, I stood alongside Nicole as Ryan approached us.

    ¡°Did something happen?¡± Ryan asked, already sliding into a protective mood but we were quick to reassure him that nothing happened.

    ¡°I can drive you back to your house. I don¡¯t mind.¡± Ryan offered, polite andpassion as ever, but I only shook my head.

    My head was now beginning to ache and my vision was starting to get dim. I should¡¯ve just epted his offer but I knew that would be selfish of me.

    ¡°No. I¡¯m good, I can just walk home, it¡¯s not that far from here.¡± I protested and after a little back and forth, Ryan agreed.

    ¡°Call me immediately when you get home or if you encounter any kind of trouble on the way.¡± Nicole said and I nodded, reassuring her that I will do just that.

    We finally hugged and I decided it was time for me to start walking back home before it gets anyter and I wouldn¡¯t be able to find my way home.

    Nicole nodded and I watched as she walked back to the party with Ryan. I sighed heavily and held my head for what seemed like minutes before starting my walk home.

    I¡¯d walked a few miles already when I remembered that I had no idea where I was going. The road doesn¡¯t look really familiar to me. Mason had driven me to school earlier this morning and instead of me looking at the road, I had my headphones on and my eyes had been closed.

    I groaned in frustration as I hissed and silently cussed Mason. I looked back and forth but there was not a cab or buses in view, finally picking up my phone. I gasped when I saw the time.

    It was 11:30 PM. Almost midnight!

    I shouldn¡¯t have rejected Ryan¡¯s offer, I shouldn¡¯t have even decided to leave the party! All these wouldn¡¯t have happened if I didn¡¯t agree to go to the party in the first ce!This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.

    I dumped my phone in my pocket as I started running, realising instantly that it was a bad idea because my head began to pound almost immediately.

    The haziness in my eyes is definitely because of all the alcohol I¡¯ve consumed back at the party.

    Fuck.

    I briefly considered  calling my mum, but it was toote for that and disturbing her was something I wouldn¡¯t want to do. She¡¯s literally still in her newly wed phase and disrupting her night is something I never want to do.

    I let out a sigh of relief when I saw a truck in sight.

    It stopped in front of me and I was grateful but not grateful for the headlight that was causing my headache to intensify.

    I took a good look at it and I knew that I¡¯ve seen that truck before. I walked to the side with my palm protecting my eyes from the onught of the bright headlights.

    It honked three times and I frowned as the window slowly rolled down.

    My frown deepened when the face I was least expecting to see got revealed as the window rolled downpletely.

 Chapter 15

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I huffed when I realized the driver of the truck was none other than Mason.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Can this night get any worse?

    I rolled my eyes as I inspected the truck properly. He wasn¡¯t alone in the truck, there was a blonde sitting right next to him, which got me more irritated.

    ¡°Get in.¡± He ordered and that got me angrier. How dare he think he could just ask me to get in the car and I would?

    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯d rather walk home and get into an ident than get into the same car with you ever again!¡± I snapped at him and he onlyughed.

    ¡°You know, I shouldn¡¯t even be offering your dumb ass a ride right now after the stunt you pulled this morning by not closing my freaking door, but I¡¯m more matured than that, so here I am.¡± He breathed out but I only scoffed in response, folding my hands across my chest.

    ¡°Let¡¯s just go and leave this loser,¡± The blondemented and I felt the anger bubble inside me more and more.

    ¡°If she¡¯s not going to get in, she might as well walk to wherever her destination might be.¡± She added and I gritted my teeth against each other.

    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Mason agreed with the girl, and then to my horror, he began to roll the window up, starting the car¡¯s engine in the next moment.

    God, I hate him so fucking much.

    I watched as he rolled the steering wheel, instantly rethinking my decision. If he leaves now then I would have no other choice than to get more lost tonight. I obviously needed the ride and if that meant I¡¯ll take it with Mason then so be it.

    I ced my hand on the rolling window in hopes that Mason would stop rolling it up but he didn¡¯t and soon my hand got caught up in the ss.

    ¡°Oww, oh my god. Oh my god.¡± I cursed as I managed to get my hand out and stop it from getting even stuck. Mason nted me a look bursted outughing while  gesturing that I get into the backseat.

    I snarled at him before opening the door to the backseat and I got in. I took another look at my fingers to see it slightly swollen and reddened.

    ¡°You really love to show me that you really are dumber than you already are every damn time, cause what sane person would put her fingers in a rolling window?¡± Mason snickered out as I threw me a pointed look, while I only red at him in response.

    I couldn¡¯t help but imagine myself strangling Mason to death right now. If it weren¡¯t for the stupid blonde in the car with him right now, then I wouldn¡¯t have hesitated in hitting his head with a club.

    The blonde turned to look at me after a few moments as I adjusted in the truck and tried to straighten my hair with my hands. It was easy to tell that she hated me, she had suggested that Mason leaves me out in the cold after all.

    ¡°I don¡¯t really feel too good about having her in the car.¡± She finally said to Mason as soon as Mason continued to drive.

    ¡°Oh, No. She¡¯s my sister and you have absolutely nothing to worry about.¡± Mason said and I retched when he said the word ¡®sister¡¯.

    No way in hell will I ever regard him with that term.

    ¡°Really? Your sister? You both are¡­¡± the blonde started as she turned back to look at me again with a frown on.

    ¡°¡­Different.¡± She finally concluded her sentence and I scoffed loud enough that both of them heard me just fine.

    ¡°Oh not really. She¡¯s my step sister and I only picked her up because I would eventually get scolded if she walks home while I drive home.¡± He answered.

    My fist clenched in anger.

    It wasn¡¯t his fault, it was rather my mother¡¯s fault for not allowing me to go live in the dorms.

    ¡°Oh you¡¯re so sweet.¡± The blonde replied as she leaned in to kiss his cheeksI briefly considered demanding that he drop me right now c but I forced myself to swallow the words down, because I know damn well that I really do need that ride..

    She turned to frown at me, one I returned before she turned back to face the road once again. I picked up my phone to text Nicole and I told her I was already on my way home, but was riding home with the jerkface that is Mason himself..

    We soon arrived at our destination after about forty minutes and I couldn¡¯t be anymore grateful. I got out of the car to see that Mason and the Blonde weren¡¯t nning on getting out, making me revere them with disgust.

    It was obvious that he nned on fucking the blonde in the car overnight, because I know Danny wouldn¡¯t be one to ept Mason bringing girls home.

    Danny might be amodating as hell but I havee to e that he doesn¡¯t take nonsense from anyone and that included his own son.

    ¡°Enjoy it while he fucks your empty brain out.¡± I couldn¡¯t resist the urge to pass thement as I mmed the door shut after me. The blinds gasped and had been about to chase after me but was stopped by Mason who shot me a re.

    I sighed as I made my way to the house and I was grateful for the fact that I wouldn¡¯t have to listen to the loud music fromst night, or the moans of the stupid blonde.

    I walked in to see Danny and my mum still up and watching a movie, snuggled together and looking extremely cozy.

    My mom cooed andplemented how good I looked and I sank into the spot beside her, letting her tug me against her like she didn¡¯t see me this morning.

    ¡°Why are you home so early, I thought the party was overnight?¡± My mother asked and I sighed.

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t fully enjoying it and I couldn¡¯t wait to leave. I¡¯ve always told you parties aren¡¯t really my style, do you see that now?¡± I answered and my motherughed as she nodded her head affirmatively.

    ¡°How were you able to get home?¡± Danny asked and I wished he hadn¡¯t because the question only stirred up my anger.

    ¡°Mason, he drove me home, but he¡¯s currently outside.¡± I answered.

    I¡¯d finished answering the question when I realised I could do something even more evil to Mason as a punishment.

    I turned to my mum and whispered into her ear. I knew she would overreact because she equally loved Mason and would hate to see him misbehave.

    ¡°What?!¡± She screamed and I only kept mute as Danny stopped the movie they were watching.

    ¡°What the matter, Sweetheart?¡± He asked but my mum was too shocked to answer, ¡°What did you say to her, Ava?¡± He asked me and I kept mute for a few moments

    I pretended like I was reluctant to speak, and refused to give in until he asked a few more times.

    ¡°Mason is outside with a girl and I saw them trying to smoke pot. That wasn¡¯t the only thing, I think they do drugs too.¡± I lied and Danny sprung up at once.

    ¡°WHAT?!¡± He yelled as he made his way out of the sitting room, making a wide smile stretch out on my face.

    The jerk is about to get it.

 Chapter 16

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I smiled in satisfaction, knowing  that Mason was about to get into trouble with his dad, a trouble that I had initiated.

    I¡¯m also going to be cock blocking him and that blonde bitch.

    Perfect.

    ¡°You¡¯re lying.¡± My mother¡¯s voice washed over me, pulling me out of my thoughts and causing me to blink twice before finally getting what she was referring to.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked, pretending to not understand her, right before she gestured towards my brows.

    ¡°You¡¯re raising your brows,¡± she pointed out with eyes slightly narrowed at me, letting me know that she has outrightly caught me in my lie.

    ¡°And, the only time they¡¯re up like this is whenever you¡¯re lying.¡± She added and I coughed dryly.

    Getting my brows back in shape, I feigned ignorance.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked even though I knew what she meant.

    ¡°Ava?¡± She called and I sighed in defeat, silently beating myself up for slipping this easily.

    ¡°Fine!¡± I groaned out, wrapping my arms against my chest and leaning into the couch  properly, ¡°You¡¯re right. I lied.¡± I added in a low, resigned tone.

    ¡°I knew it,¡± my mother said like she was Sherlock Holmes and had just cracked a new case, ¡°Why though? Is it because you still haven¡¯t gotten around to liking him and epting him as your step brother?¡± She asked and I was silent for a while.

    For a moment, I considered asking her if she knew damn well that Mason also doesn¡¯t want me as his Step sister, so she can stop sounding like I¡¯m the only problem between the two of us, when I know damn well that I wasn¡¯t.

    Mason was the only problem and that¡¯s that.

    ¡°He wasn¡¯t smoking pot,¡± I finally breathed out, refusing to meet my mother¡¯s eyes as I spoke, because I knew she¡¯s currently disappointed and it would be written all over her face..

    Perhaps, I had gone a little over the top about lying that he was smoking pot, I guess?

    ¡°But I swear he was doing something illegal,¡± I said in my defence, trying to get my mum to see things from my point of view and when she raised an eyebrow at me, I decided to shut up to avoiding off as desperate.

    ¡°Really? Ava?¡± My mum asked, sounding really sarcastic and I sighed once again.

    ¡°I swear. He might not be smoking pot but he¡¯s really doing something he shouldn¡¯t be found doing,¡± I added, ¡°I saw him with a cigarette at the party. He was smoking, so it wasn¡¯t like I told aplete lie.¡± I added with an off handed shrug and my mother¡¯s eyes widened.

    I¡¯d just caught her interest.

    ¡°Are you serious?¡± She asked and I nodded affirmatively.

    ¡°You can ask Nicole, we both saw him and¡­¡±

    ¡°He brought you home right?¡± She asked and I nodded.

    ¡°Yeah but that¡¯s beside the point, right?¡± I rolled my eyes and my mother only chuckled.

    ¡°Look, Ava, he¡¯s an adult. As much as I don¡¯t appreciate the act of drinking and smoking, he¡¯s an adult and there¡¯s only little I can do,¡± She started, taking my hand in hers as she rubbed it slightly, ¡°What matters the most is the fact that you both are getting closer and he brought you home without anyone having to force him to.¡± She finished and I yanked my hands away from hers at once.

    ¡°Yeah, we¡¯re magically getting closer now and thanks to him because I almost returned home without some of my fingers.¡±  I muttered under my breath as I took another look at my still red hand.

    ¡°What?¡± My mother asked.

    ¡°Nothing.¡± I responded, not wanting her to see the said fingers in question because like Mason had said in the truck, even though I was really mad at him, I couldn¡¯t help but agree with myself that he had been right. I shouldn¡¯t have shoved my fingers in a closing window.

    ¡°Oh my god, what happened to your¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m tired mum. I need to rest, so I¡¯m going to my room.¡± I cut her off as she spoke, smoothly rising to my feet. nting a kiss on her cheek, I made my way up the stairs, heading towards my room.

    Out of curiosity, once in my bedroom, I made my way to my window and peeked out of it, feeling gleeful on seeing Mason and his father standing a few feet away from the truck, obviously in an argument.

    Mission aplished.

    Danny must¡¯ve caught him and the blonde about to have sex in the car, serves him right to face something this mortifying.

    Serves him right for trying to sever my precious hand as well.

    I looked around for the blonde but she was nowhere to be found and I shrugged as I made my way to the bathroom, perhaps she¡¯s on her way home already, without getting any dick tonight.

    Awesome.

    I walked to the bathroom and had my hands soaked in hot water for a while. I massaged it thoroughly and rubbed some ointment into it, hoping that the swelling would havee down overnight.

    I was making my way back into my bedroom when I noticed a figure sitting in my bed,pletely taking me unexpectedly.

    ¡°Holy Shit!¡± I cried out, throwing away the towel I had with me and almost tripping. I took a good look at the figure still sitting on my bed and chewing her nails, as recognition slowly began to dawn on my face.

    What the fuck is the spawn of Satan doing in my room.

    ¡°What the hell are you doing here?¡± I demanded, narrowing my eyes at her in irritation.

    ¡°I knew it! This couldn¡¯t have been Mason¡¯s room, even though the colour was misleading at first, I knew I couldn¡¯t feel Mason in here like I was supposed to.¡± The blonde who had apanied Mason home from the party muttered while ncing around the room.

    Resisting the urge to close the distance between us and drag her off my bed with her blonde hair, I closed my eyes and inhaled deeply.

    ¡°Get out of my room right now.¡± I breathed out next.

    When she made no move to leave, I took a threatening step closer to her, which made her instantly slide off the bed.

    ¡°He knew you were going to tell on him,¡± she offered as she folded her hands, referring to Mason. ¡°And which was why he¡¯d asked me to get into his bedroom through the window. You really should start watching your back because he sure as hell is going to get back at you, snitch!¡± She finished on a sneer and I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°Get the fuck out of my room or I won¡¯t hesitate to yank you by your hair and throw you out the window!¡± I snapped out, taking another step towards her.

    She walked towards the window which she had emerged from and to my surprise, got out of it the same way she¡¯d gotten in. I inched towards the window once she had disappeared out of it and scoffed with a shake of my head at the height she had to climb to get into my room.

    Anything for stupid dick.

    I shook my head and was about to shut my window when I caught sight of Mason. Oh, how much do I want to bite his stupid ears off right now.

    I couldn¡¯t see his facial expressions clearly, but I clearly saw noticed the moment he raised his two middle fingers up at me, flipping me off in a way that made me scoff as I mmed my windows shut.

    As I prepared for bed, one thought returned back to my mind.

    What if he really tries to get back at me?

    It didn¡¯t take long for me to shove that thought out as I crawled into my bed and prepared to get some much needed sleep.

    Before I could begin to fall asleep, a loud moan echoed off the wall, making me let out a frustrated groan, as more strings of moans followed suit, making it obvious that Mason and his blonde were already getting at it.

    I knew he obviously didn¡¯t care about making noise in the rest of the house because the duplex was in two parts and one side was for just Mason and I ¨C which was exactly why my mother and his father hadn¡¯t heard the absurdly loud music he had been yingst night when I had been about to fall asleep.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    All attempts to block the moans out were useless, making me extremely annoyed as I once again, slipped my headphones on, like I had donest night.

    That fucking son of a bitch.

 Chapter 17

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I woke up to see that I¡¯d missed a lot of calls from Nicole. I groaned as I picked my phone up to call her back, knowing that she was going to give me an earful ¨C one which I wasn¡¯t prepared for just yet.

    ¡°Hello.¡± I gorgily said into the phone while sleepily rubbing my eyes.

    ¡°Are you just getting up?¡± Nicole demanded, sounding bubbly and bright. ¡°I stayed at the party all night long and I¡¯m up already but you¡¯re the one who¡¯s still asleep.¡± She teased and I groaned again.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    ¡°I still want to go back to sleep.¡± I informed her, making her snort out another chuckle.

    ¡°I just wanted to ask if you got home fine and if the jerk didn¡¯t try to do anything to you?¡± She asked and just like the question, did something woke me up so fast, I sprung up at once.

    All the dizziness I was previously feeling had suddenly disappeared.

    Realizing that she didn¡¯t even know that the said jerk in question is the reason why I had arrived home safelyst night, I began to exin it all to her. I told her about when Mason picked me up and how he had intentionally made sure my hand got stuck in the windowsill and how I¡¯d also intentionally lied against him after we arrived home.

    ¡°Well at least he took you home and you were able to get your beauty sleep.¡± Shemented and I scoffed.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t sleep.¡± I said through gritted teeth.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Because the fool thought it would be a good idea to have sex in his bedroom. I¡¯m not mad at the fact that he had fucked her brains outst night, cause frankly, I don¡¯t care about he does in his privacy, but at the fact that they didn¡¯t let me sleep is so annoying!¡± I snapped out in annoyance. I reached up and tugged off the headphones hanging around my neck, which I had worn to sleepst night.

    ¡°Was she that loud?¡± Nicole asked, sounding extremely curious.

    ¡°She was so fucking loud, and it was insanely loud because you know? His bedroom is next to mine. Frankly, I have no idea of what¡¯s so special about the sex, which I¡¯m sure was very mid.¡± I mumbled on an eyeroll.

    ¡°You say that like you¡¯ve had sex before.¡± Nicole said on a sing-song tone which made me scowl even though my cheeks instantly heated up.

    ¡°Shut up, Nicole.¡± I mumbled, and as expected, she breathed out augh in response.

    In desperation to change the topic, I began to speak almost immediately.

    ¡°What¡¯s up? Did you get to enjoy the party?¡± I asked next, surprisingly seeding in changing the topic.

    As expected, Nicole didn¡¯t waste time in delving into details as she spoke.

    ¡°Yes, I did,¡± she shrieked, ¡°The game continued, got more intense and before I knew it, one thing led to the other and guess what?¡± She asked and I could already tell that her eyes were currently twinkling with excitement right now.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked, I was terrible at the guessing game and I knew I would do terrible if I did as little as attempt at guessing.

    ¡°Me and Ryan ended up having sex in the car!¡± She let out on a loud shriek that made me pull the phone away from my ear for a moment.

    Sex in the car has been on her bucket list for months now, and I¡¯m d she¡¯d finally cross that off her list.

    But, what¡¯s going on with everyone and car sex?!

    ¡°Thank goodness I didn¡¯t stay behind. I don¡¯t want to have to see two horny freaks fucking.¡± I said and Nicoleughed.

    ¡°Well, at least I¡¯m not neen and still a virgin.¡± She teased back, making me roll my eyes.

    ¡°Shut up!¡± I snapped before hanging up the call.

    I flopped back into the bed, staring at the chandelier as I slowly got lost in thoughts.

    Sex is overrated.

    And yes, I¡¯m a neen year old virgin, because I haven¡¯t found the perfect guy to do it with. Perhaps, one day, I¡¯ll finally get to experience what sex actually feels like and what the entire fuss around sex is all about.

    My phone chimed and I read Nicole¡¯s message out loud as I let out a slightugh.

    ¡®Don¡¯t forget our meeting at the coffee house.¡¯

    She¡¯s my ride or die.

    I walked to the window and pulled it open to let in the morning air in when I noticed something really funny.

    It was the blonde scaling the fence, sneaking out.

    Just how pathetic can someone be?

    Scoffing, I closed the window and exited the bedroom, walking downstairs to pour myself a ss of milk. I made my way back to my room and I saw Mason outside his bedroom, but I chose to pointedly ignore him¨C  until I felt a sharp pull on my arm.

    I shot him an irritated look. ¡°The fuck do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± I demanded.

    ¡°You¡¯re such a pussy for doing what you didst night. Telling on and lying against me at once? That was very low of you, Ava. What were you expecting? That I¡¯d get grounded or something?¡± He demanded, looking at me like I was an inconvenience in his life right now.

    Once he was done, I rolled my eyes for a moment.

    ¡°You¡¯re a stupid dick for bringing a girl over and making so much noise while at it. I couldn¡¯t sleep all night because of that!¡± I snapped as I yanked my hand from his grip.

    ¡°Just wait till your father actually gets to know about it because trust me, I will tell him.¡± I added on a sneer.

    I turned around to leave but he roughly pulled me back once again, causing my milk to spill a little this time.

    ¡°You¡¯re nning on reporting my father to himself, right? Cause, need I remind you that my father and your mother still have their hormones raging from being a newly weds, which is a perfect exnation for the moans you supposedly heard throughout the night?¡±

    The anger inside of me began to grow as he continued. Yeah, the ones you heardst night? Must¡¯ve been as a result of my dad giving it to your mother real hard.¡± He finished and that was it.

    How dare he?

    My blood boiled and I gritted my teeth against one another as I clenched my fist and instinctively, I lifted it to punch him but he dodged, making me trip and fall on my face, while the milk spilled beside me.

    ¡°Neither you, nor my dad can stop me from having sex because I¡¯m not the one who¡¯s neen between us, you are! I¡¯m twenty one for fuck¡¯s sake! You can go ahead and tell on me if you want to, that¡¯s what you¡¯re best at anyway.¡± He spat out, regarding me with a sneer.

    ¡°Fuck you, Mason.¡± I said from my spot on the ground which only made him snicker out augh.

    ¡°Let me guess, you¡¯re going to me me for tripping over fucking air, right? Dumb ass.¡± He continued and I flipped him off as I lifted off the ground, stifling a wince.

    ¡°And, if you dare attempt to tell on me again, trust that I¡¯d make sure you regret doing that.¡± He said as he entered his bedroom and shut the door firmly after that.

    No matter how stupid or barbaric he might be, I still needed him to drop me off at school today.

    Which was why I attempted swallowing down my pride to ask him if he¡¯d drop me off while leaving for school this morning as soon as he emerged from his bedroom momentster.

    But, he only sneered at me as he responded.

    ¡°Well, you had better learn to start finding your way today because I sure as hell am not driving you to school today. You should¡¯ve clearly thought about that before telling on me.¡± He hissed and I watched him walk away, not knowing what to say to that.

    Perhaps he was right, I really should¡¯ve thought about it thoroughly before ratting him outst night.

 Chapter 18

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°Did you get to see Mason before he left for school?¡± Danny asked and I shook my head. I didn¡¯t want to think about Mason, talk about him or anything rted to him at all right now.

    I should never have even attempted to swallow my pride like I had did when I had asked him if he¡¯d be dropping me off this morning, since it had been off no use.

    Selfish, stupid bastard.

    ¡°He left early because he doesn¡¯t want to drive me to school this morning.¡± I finally let out with a shrug and Danny took his gaze off the road for a moment to regard me for a moment.

    ¡°Now why would you say that?¡± He asked, sounding genuinely curious and I huffed out a breath.

    ¡°It¡¯s because I just know it, he left early because he knew he would be obligated to drive me to school and I don¡¯t even care if¡­. You know what? Never mind.¡± I tried to exin but stopped halfway when I realised he would never understand.

    ¡°You know, I love how you both bicker here and there.¡± He said amidst quietughter and I rolled my eyes, ¡°It¡¯s almost like when two people who are deeply in love argue, it¡¯s just so funny, you know?¡± He added and I retched in disgust.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    There¡¯s no fucking way he thinks Mason and I fight like lovers. If he wasn¡¯t even my supposed step brother, I would never even look his way or try to get in touch with him.

    ¡°I love your mother so much,¡± He randomly started to say all of a sudden after a while of silence and I let out a slight smile, ¡°And I want you to know that I love you too, just as much.¡± He continued and I couldn¡¯t help it, my heart ached.

    ¡°Oh please don¡¯t¡­ you¡¯re going to make me cry.¡± I let out on a small breath. It felt like my heart was starting to ache fondly, a feeling which I usually get for my mother alone, but years.

    But now I was feeling the same thing for Danny, or something rted to that.

    ¡°And I want you to know that whenever you¡¯re in trouble or whenever you need my help, you can alwayse to me without hesitations and I¡¯d always be so d to help, hm?¡± He continued,

    ¡°You¡¯re already more than just a stepdaughter to me in such a short period, I see you as a daughter now.¡± He finished with a smile and I felt my heart ache some more.

    ¡°You know, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve told you this before but I¡¯m d my mother ended up with you.¡± I said and when he regarded me with a twinkle in his eyes, I shrugged before continuing.

    ¡°You¡¯re so good to her, you treat her so well and you treat me so well. I like you a lot for her and frankly, there would¡¯ve been no other man better for my mum out there like you are.¡± It was obvious that all what I had just said meant a whole lot to him because he was beaming brightly.

    ¡°This honestly means a lot to me, Ava. Thank you for telling me all of that.¡± He breathed after a little while and I smiled at him softly.

    Afortable silence settled over us until I broke it after some time.

    ¡°But you know I¡¯m not reallyfortable with calling you dad just yet, right?¡± I breathed out and he nodded eagerly, ¡°I really will love to but I¡¯m not toofortable with it just yet, and you know, it¡¯s a gradual process for me.¡±

    Danny cleared his throat after a few moments.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Ava. There¡¯s no rush at all and you can take as much time as you want. I¡¯m not in a hurry. I don¡¯t even mind you calling me Danny,.¡± He said with a warm, encouraging smile and I nodded affirmatively.

    We¡¯ve bothe to an agreement and I liked how understanding he is. How easy it is to have a conversation with him.

    ¡°We could go out though.¡± I suddenly said after a little while.

    ¡°What?¡± He responded and I grinned.

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s a fun idea. We could go out and do those cute stuff that father and daughter do, you know? We could take pictures, go to amusement parks and do some fun things,¡± I exined, ¡°If you want to, of course.¡± I added and he smiled.

    ¡°Of course I would really really love that, I would be so honoured to go out with you.¡± He finished,ughing from chin to chin and talking like I was some kind of a big celebrity.

    ¡°Alright then.¡± I answered, leaning into the car seat to rx properly and enjoy the rest of the ride.

    We soon got to my uni¡¯s building and Danny pulled up as I unbuckled my seat belt and grabbed my bag.

    ¡°Should I also pick you up after school?¡± He asked and I shook my head negatively.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t bother. I¡¯ll just get a taxi and be fine.¡± I answered as I slid out the phone.

    ¡°By the way, what happened to your head? How¡¯d you get this little bump?¡± He asked, gesturing to the recent bump which I got this morning.

    It was as a result of me tripping when I had been about to punch Mason.

    So, it¡¯s technically his fault.

    ¡°I only tripped and fell, it¡¯s nothing to be worried about.¡± I answered, choosing not to mention Mason¡¯s name on remembering his warning this morning.

    ~~~~

    ¡°Oh my goodness, what the hell happened to your head?¡± Nicole asked after we were sitted to have our coffee and my hair has shifted off the bumb.

    ¡°It¡¯s that stupid dick¡¯s fault,¡± I responded in a small sigh. I need not continue for Nicole to know who I was referring to, ¡°The son of a bitch made me trip this morning.¡± I answered and Nicole breathed out a smallugh that made me level her with her re.

    Nothing about this situation is funny.

    ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s such a jerk.¡± She finally agreed and I rolled my eyes once again.

    ¡°Is it just me or is that guy over there making passes at me?¡± I asked and Nicole subtly turned around to look before smiling as she turned back around to face me.

    ¡°He definitely is trying to flirt with you.¡± She answered and I groaned a little.

    I tried to change the topic to no avail.

    ¡°You really should give him your number.¡± Nicole advised and I only scoffed. Nicole and I were currently on my way to ourst lecture for the day when I realised that Nicole wasn¡¯t with me.

    I turned around to see her with the waiter I¡¯d tried so hard to ignore, whom she had imed had been trying to flirt with me.

 Chapter 19

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We walked back to ss with me being mad at Nicole for giving the waiter my number without my consent.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°C¡¯mon Ava, chill out already.¡± She cajoled as she followed behind me while we both made our way to the evening ss, which was ourst ss for the day.

    I knew Nicole wasn¡¯t one to concentrate in ss and this evening wasn¡¯t different. She was blowing bubble gums and texting Ryan, barely paying attention to the lecture that I had to asionally tap her to bring her to reality.

    ¡°Out of my ss this minute.¡± The professor said after being unable to take it any longer, making me stare dejectedly as Nicole picked up her bag to leave the ss, making me mood get sour in an instant.

    She sometimes does this on purpose so she can be sent out of the ss, and because of that. I had personally pleaded with her multiple times to at least try and listen in ss today, she wasgging behind on her grade but she still wouldn¡¯t listen.

    ¡°Hi.¡± The guy who took Nicole¡¯s space greeted me and I only scoffed before ignoring him and focusing back on the ongoing lecture. I tried my best to listen and jotted down what I needed to research on as the ss progressed.

    The ss ended and everyone instantly started to leave at once.

    One thing I really hated, was rushing to leave the ss room immediately after lectures, because that just creates unnecessary ruckus which I¡¯d rather not be mixed up with.

    ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Xander,¡± I heard a low voice say behind me and I shut my eyes tight in frustration for a moment as I turned around to regard him curiously, realising that I didn¡¯t know what he looked like.

    ¡°I¡¯m new here so I¡¯m just trying to make some new friends.¡± He added and I forced out a smile.

    ¡°I¡¯m Ava, nice to meet you.¡± I said, introducing myself as I held out my palm for a handshake which he dly epted. I¡¯d only done this so I wouldn¡¯t appear rude to him.

    I turned back and was about to leave when my professor suddenly called me over , making me huff out a long breath sa I headed over to him.

    He talked to me for a few moments before gesturing to Xavier who was back to standing behind me, surprisingly.

    ¡°Have you met Xander?¡± He asked and I nodded affirmatively as I told him that I¡¯d met Xander earlier and we already introduced ourselves.

    ¡°Okay, that¡¯s good,¡± He said, ¡°Since you¡¯re the leading student in the ss and of course, my best one.¡± He said with a proud smile that made me feel a little gleeful.

    ¡°Thank you, Sir.¡± I muttered politely.

    ¡°Of course, dear. Also, yes, I would like for you to tutor Xander, he¡¯s new and he needs as much help as he can get so he doesn¡¯t fail the ss.¡± He added and my eyes widened a little in shock at the unexpectedness of his request.

    I had absolutely no intention of tutoring anyone, especially not anyone that looks like Xander.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Sir but I don¡¯t think I¡¯m the best one for the job.¡± I started, trying to make excuses for the reason I wouldn¡¯t be able to tutor Xander.

    ¡°Why, if I may ask?¡± My teacher started, wrapping both arms over his chest with an eyebrow raised in curiosity..

    ¡°Because¡­¡± I started when I realised I didn¡¯t have a tangible reason in my head right now.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll let you lecture in one of my sses if you agree to tutor him.¡± He said and my eyes widened and I could tell that he could see the glint of excitement that I had in them.

    ¡°Really?!¡± I yelled in excitement and he nodded affirmatively.

    ¡°Yes, only if you agree to do that.¡± He added and I shrieked. That was definitely a perfect way to get me to do his bidding, and I wasn¡¯t surprised that he knew that.

    ¡°Yes, Sir. I¡¯ll do it.¡± I let out and he nodded.

    ¡°Since you both met earlier then it wouldn¡¯t be much of a difficult task for you.¡± He answered and I nodded affirmatively.

    ~~~

    I walked out of the ss to find that Nicole wasn¡¯t outside waiting for me, I looked around in confusion as I tried to think of the possible ces she could be when my phone chimed.

    ¡®Ryan came and I had to leave with him but don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll see you again in two days when we have sses together. Xoxo.¡¯

    I read the message out loud and a sense of irritation stirred in me as I stared at my phone screen. Shrugging the feeling off, I walked out of the school building to find a taxi to take me home.

    I got home after an hour and the sight I got to see made me jealous for weird reasons. Mason was baking cookies with my mum and they were grinning from ear to ear.

    I ignored him as I walked over to hug my mum from behind, ¡°Hey, my gorgeous mum.¡± I breathed out as I pressed a kiss to her cheek and she answered amidstughter as she turned to look at me.

    ¡°How were sses today?¡± She asked.

    ¡°Fair.¡± I answered, stretching my hand to pick one of the cookies, but unexpectedly, Mason pped my hand away, making me drop the cookie I had already picked in reflex.

    ¡°Why would you do that? Are you insane?!¡± I demanded angrily.

    ¡°Don¡¯t touch it, it¡¯s not even yours to start with. I was clearly part of the people who baked that, the least you could do is to ask for permission before taking anything off the te.¡± He shot back and I breathed out a scoff.

    God, I want to behead him so bad.

    When I fell silent, he carried on. ¡°Your hands are also dirty. At least wash them first.¡±

    ¡°How dare you tell me my hands are dirty? I washed them.¡± I argued vehemently but he only shook his head and tugged the te of cookies to his side, making me roll my eyes in irritation.

    My mum picked a piece of cookie and fed it to me, I smiled at her as I said my thanks and stuck my tongue out at Mason as soon as I done, and as soon as my mum wasn¡¯t looking, I gave him the middle finger, one which he eagerly returned without wasting any time.

    Mason rolled his eyes at me as he brought out his phone and started going through after a few moments, just as my mum brought out the lists of things she needed me to help her get from the grocery store.

    She had agreed to do the shopping herself with Danny, but it seems like the ns are already changed.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Danny?¡± I asked curiously. He could apany me to do the shopping since we¡¯ve both decided to hang out with each other now.

    ¡°He has an important meeting to attend to and he won¡¯t be able to go with you but you can go with Mason.¡± My mother was exining and my head shot up at once.

    ¡°What?¡± Mason and I said in unison as we both stared at my mother who onlyughed heartedly.

    ¡°It¡¯s not that big a deal. Both of you would do great,¡± my mum said as she cleaned her hand with the napkin, ¡°Ava, go get ready so you and your brother can go together.¡± She finished and I scoffed beneath my breath at the word ¡®brother¡¯..

    ¡°You don¡¯t mind right, Mason?¡± She asked.

    ¡°I don¡¯t.¡± He responded sweetly, and if my mother was as sane as I¡¯d like to believe, then there was no way she was supposed to buy that response.

 Chapter 20

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I was about to get to my room and change out of my clothes when I realised I still had the chance to fight back, and so I came to a conclusion quickly. I was going to lie and say I had an assignment that required all of my time.

    ¡°Mum,¡± I called out and she turned towards me almost immediately.

    ¡°I have an assignment that¡¯s due tomorrow and I really can¡¯t go to do grocery shopping like I had thought.¡± I spoke while adding extra effort to hold my appearance together. ¡°I want to, but I can¡¯t.¡± I said and my mother wrapped her arms around her chest while her eyebrows were currently raised.

    She obviously knew I was lying and I honestly didn¡¯t have the strength to keep up the fake act.

    My mum would always be able to catch In on all my lies.

    Would that ever end? Probably not.

    ¡°Mason doesn¡¯t mind, I love that and you can actually go with him, you know?¡± I continued as I approached her with the list she handed to me earlier.

    ¡°Will you stop!¡± My mother said as she tried her best not to yell at me. I knew how frustrated she¡¯d been from watching me and Mason argue, ¡°It¡¯s an instruction you must follow and not a request. Your assignment will have to wait till you¡¯re back.¡± She said firmly,pletely shutting the space for me to attempt arguing once again, and I knew that at this point, there was nothing else I could do than to listen to her.

    ¡°I need to prepare dinner before Danny gets back and you will go with Mason to get the items I need for that to happen, hm?¡± She added and I let out a small groan.

    ¡°I can go alone, you know? I¡¯m not a child and I don¡¯t need you constantly telling Mason to babysit me.¡± I said, my eyes silently pleading for her to listen to me.

    ¡°You think I want to go with you? I only agreed because she asked and I respect her too much to refuse her to to quest, unlike you.¡± He said and I gasped, instantly slipping him off.

    ¡°And,  I don¡¯t care if you go alone. You can get lost for all I fucking care.¡±

    Mason calmly informed me  and my jaw dropped.

    I turned to look at my mother who also had a frustrated look on her face, lookingpletely done.

    ¡°WILL YOU BOTH STOP FUCKING YELLING!¡± My mother shouted, hitting the counter and making sure we both shut up. That was one of the rare times that she cursed in, seeing as since she has always warned me against it.

    She held her breath in for a while before releasing it and afterposing herself, she opened her eyes.

    ¡°You both go get ready and please for the first time, get along till you get to the mall and back.¡± She added and Mason and I both turned to leave without responding.

    He bumped into me as he walked past me  and I made sure I hit him really hard with my elbow before making my way to my bedroom to get ready.

    I was done and on my way out, I met with Mason in the hallway and stuck my tongue out at him. It might be a childish act but I liked it because it always got him angry.

    ¡°Don¡¯t stick too close to me when we get to the grocery store,¡± he started and I raised my eyebrows, it was taking everything in me to not burst outughing.

    ¡°Keep your distance and I will prefer it more if we acted like we don¡¯t know each other because I don¡¯t want to be seen with you.¡± He finished, emphasising on the ¡®You¡¯ and that was when I lost all the ability to hold back myughter.

    ¡°You really think I want to be seen with you too?¡± I asked amidstughter and the thought of Mason thinking I wanted to be close to him made me let out more hystericalughter.

    ¡°Oh my god, how delusional can you be? I don¡¯t give two shits about you and for the record I don¡¯t want to be seen with you as well. All I want is to get to the store and be back in one piece because I know you¡¯ll definitely try to make me go crazy.¡± I finished as I hissed and walked past him.

    I made my way to his car and I sat there, adjusting my seatbelt as I waited for him. He soon joined me in the car and we both drove to the store.

    I have never been more grateful for a silent ride than I am with this one. Surprisingly, he didn¡¯t y any insanely loud music as well.

    We got to the store and I started scouting all the aisle for the things my mother wrote in the list.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I turned to look for Mason even though I didn¡¯t care about him and what I saw wasn¡¯t surprising.

    He was talking to a girl. He¡¯d onlye to the store to flirt.

    Such a useless person.

    He didn¡¯t offer to help or try to look for things I couldn¡¯t find. He couldn¡¯t even keep his womanizing in check even if it¡¯s for twenty minutes.

    I got everything on the list and made my way to the counter to pay for them and on my way to store what I got in the trunk I heard a girl calling out her number for him and I shook my head.

    I loaded the trunk of the car up and went to wait patiently for the dick that¡¯s supposed to assist me with shopping, instantly noticing him making his way to the car as he waved and smiled at the girl whose number he just collected.

    ¡°Will it kill you to see a girl and not approach her? Will you actually die if you don¡¯t try to get beneath their skirts?¡± I asked and he scoffed before turning to me.

    ¡°You couldn¡¯t even offer to help, not like I need your stupid help but you can definitely do more than go around scouting for anything in a skirt.¡± I shot at him before he got the chance to say something.

    ¡°Why do you keep trying to control me? You¡¯re younger than I am, have some respect and stop being a rude bitch!¡± He shot at me and I held my chest.

    ¡°Me? Rude bitch?!¡± I mused and he shrugged, and then he inched closer to me.

    ¡°What are you going to do about it, huh?¡± He asked as he pinched my cheek but before he could move his hand away, I shifted my head sideways and as soon as his finger met with my teeth, I bit down hard on it.

    ¡°Bitch!¡± He groaned out as he yanked his dirty hand away from me, shoving me a little, but I still managed to lose my footing.

    ¡°Do you want toy down there all day or are you getting into the car anytime soon?¡± He shouted as he slide into his car and I cursed him beneath my breath as I pushed myself off the ground.

    ¡°One more waste of my time and I¡¯ll make sure to leave your dumb ass behind so you¡¯d walk back home.¡±

 Chapter 21

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We soon arrived home and I hastily existed his car. The rude back home had been tense, with me ring at him as he loudly sted his stupid music.

    As we emptied the trunk of the car, I made sure to not get in his way because I didn¡¯t want another argument to break out between us.

    But, of course, somethings are just really inevitable, and in this case, is me getting into an argument with Mason, because it didn¡¯t take long for us to mistakenly get into each other¡¯s ways.

    ¡°Get the fuck out of my way, loser.¡± I snapped as I brushed past him.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Oh look, it¡¯s the dumbass ming me when she literally just walked right into me, probably thinking I¡¯m a freaking wall.¡± He snapped back and I snorted.

    ¡°You wish. I¡¯d rather walk into a wall on purpose than do that to you.¡± I informed him.

    ¡°And I¡¯d rather keep you at a really far distance from me, because you trip over fucking air, only to me me for it at the end of the day.¡± He continued and I sighed before brushing past him and flipping him off.

    Stupid asshole

    He¡¯s the most annoying human being I havee across and It was almost like he was created just so he can get on my nerves.

    He aggravated me so much and made me get really angry at the slightest thing, making my blood boil all the time.

    Once I was done with offloading my share of what I carried in from the car, I walked over to the fridge, picking a ss along the way in order to get myself a drink of water. I needed it to relieve myself of all the stress that I¡¯d just been through from shopping and then arguing my head off with Mason.

    ¡°You¡¯re chugging down water like you just got back from the desert,¡± My motherughed as she looked through the bags to make sure I got everything right. ¡°Why couldn¡¯t you just get water at the store?¡± She asked and I dropped my ss and made to speak.

    ¡°Well, my supposed stepbrother.¡± I started and my mother let out a sigh as she looked at me.

    ¡°Ava?¡± She called.

    ¡°Fine, well, Mason threatened to leave me behind if I wasted any more of his time and so I didn¡¯t really have much of a choice since I don¡¯t have my own car and I didn¡¯t want to have to go through the stress of hailing down a taxi.¡± I exined as I scanned the kitchen for the stool that was always there.

    ¡°Why? Why are you doing this to me?¡± I asked dramatically and my mother only opened her mouth, she staring at me in surprise.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± She asked and I sat properly as I started to exin it all to her.

    ¡°That¡¯s a million dor question, mum. Why are you here watching your very precious daughter go through all she¡¯s going through in the hands of that moron.¡± I said on a huff, searching my mother¡¯s eyes for answers.

    ¡°Because that moron is my husband¡¯s son.¡± She answered and I gasped dramatically, I could see my mum trying to hold back herugher since she knew I was only being dramatic right now.

    ¡°But, I am your daughter.¡± I pointed out like she didn¡¯t know and she nodded.

    ¡°You see, Mason is now your brother, you know? He¡¯s technically my child now. You¡¯d both have to get along one way or another.¡± She exined but I cut her off.

    ¡°There¡¯s no way I¡¯m getting along with him.¡± I chirped in.

    ¡°That¡¯s how siblings do, they get on your nerve, you wish you could kill them,¡± she started, and I wished in that moment that it was possible for me to actually kill Mason.

    ¡°That¡¯s not news anymore because you will soon grow to love them, since you¡¯re siblings. With Mason, I¡¯m sure you both will get along soon. You guys just need to work things out at your own pace. Once you give each other a chance, I¡¯m sure you¡¯d both be obsessed with each other.¡± My mother exined and ended up rolling my eyes once she was done.

    ¡°You know what mum? Why not just let me move to the school dormitory or better still, I¡¯ll move in with Nicole¨C at least till Mason moves off somewhere.¡± I sighed out after a few moments but I already knew she wasn¡¯t even going to consider my request for a second.

    ¡°No. And No, is No,¡± she said firmly, ¡°We are all a family now and we¡¯ll have to live as one. No one goes off anywhere or tries to avoid anyone.¡± She answered and I groaned.

    ¡°Now c¡¯mon, we have to make dinner.¡± She said and I reluctantly stood to join and help in preparing dinner.

    Dinner preparation was going well until my mother decided to ask about Danny. I knew what she wanted to hear, what she wanted me to say but I¡¯m not ready for that.

    ¡°How was your day with Danny, he drove you to school right? Did you enjoy the ride?¡± She asked and I let out a fond huff.

    Of course I enjoyed it, he was a hundred times better than his good for nothing son.

    ¡°Oh yes, I enjoyed hispany and he¡¯s really sweet too. I could never have asked for a better man for you, he treats you like you¡¯re his world and I love that so much for you.¡± I answered and a wide smile stretched out on my mother¡¯s face in that moment.

    ¡°I¡¯m really d you like him this much, Ava. It makes me happy that you both get along so well, just like I do with Mason.¡± She exined and a scowl appeared on my face at the mention of Mason.

    I told her more about the ride with Danny, about how we¡¯ve both nned to start going out together soon as a means of bouncing.

    It was obvious that mum was really excited about the new development between Danny and I, but then she just had to go ahead and ruin it by bringing up Mason once again

    ¡°It¡¯s all for the best and soon I¡¯m sure you and Mason will start bonding like this, and by then, you¡¯d both be so obsessed with one another, it would be hard to separate you from each other.¡±

    I think not. That¡¯s never happening.

    There¡¯s no way I¡¯ll ever be a little bit close to him, if anything, all I can think of, is ways to strangle the stupid asshole to death.

    I wonder if he¡¯d still be an asshole even after being dead.

 Chapter 22

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The weekend flew by really quickly and I couldn¡¯t be anymore grateful, while patiently waiting for the first day of the new week.

    The ring sound of my bedside rm jolted me out of my bed as I sprung up to get ready. I had four sses today and they were all important, which I¡¯d rather not miss, and so I grudgingly got ready for school

    Once I was done, it didn¡¯t take long for Mason to start threatening to leave me behind should I waste his time.

    Angrily, I told him to fuck off that I¡¯d just get a taxi, but my mother was there, so I couldn¡¯t really stew for long before agreeing to ride with him.

    The ride to me school was anything but quiet. Mason didn¡¯t y any loud music in the car this morning, but we both broke into more than three different arguments before we finally arrived at my school.

    I attended a smaller Uni,pared to the one Mason was attending, which was way further than mine. I¡¯ve countlessly wondered why he don¡¯t just chose to live on campus, or around the school, but there was no way I¡¯d actually ask him that.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    Minutes after I arrived in school, I ran into Xander, looking really good in the cool fit he had on. We fixed a time to meet up after ss.

    During the first lecture, I drummed my fingers over the table, willing the time to move faster than it usually does, I also kept ncing at my phone every few seconds, because of the time.

    I hated this particr ss because it was boring and the  professor always did nothing to lighten up the mood. When the lecture got over, I was among the first set of students to exit the ssroom.

    ¡ª

    It was after myst ss for the day that I came across Xander again.

    ¡°Hey Ava.¡± I heard a familiar voice called and I turned around to see Xander making his way towards me with a small smile, with his hands deep in his pockets. We had both both agreed to hold our first discussion over tea in one of the cafes here in school.

    ¡°How¡¯s it gonna be?¡± He asked after some time and I almost choked on my tea as I came back to reality. I¡¯d almost forgotten about the fact that we were here for a meeting.

    I cleared my throat before starting to speak.

    ¡°Okay, So we have sses almost every week except Wednesdays. Monday is always free a little bit, so that¡¯s the day i think it would be convenient for the both of us. Anyways so, what what do you think?¡± I asked, exining my schedule and it didn¡¯t take long for Xander to agree with my suggestion.

    ¡°You cane over this evening since it¡¯ll be better to start the tutorial as soon as possible.¡± I proposed, scribbling my address on a piece of paper and handing it over to him.

    ¡°So, what¡¯s it gonna be? We should meet on weekends too, you know, to fasten the pace of my learning.¡± He started and I itched my chin a little before agreeing with him.

    ¡°How about Saturdays?¡± I asked with a raised eyebrow.

    ¡°Perfect!¡±

    ¡°Great then, twice on weekdays and once on weekends. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.¡± I called out for rification and Xander nodded positively.

    ¡°Here are the lists of courses I¡¯m taking this semester, could you please go through them and let me know which we¡¯ll be attending together,¡± he started as he handed me the lists of courses and I went through it carefully.

    ¡°I¡¯m willing to pay for it if you¡¯d kindly tutor me in them since you¡¯re not obligated to do that, I really amgging behind and will appreciate your help tremendously.¡± He added.

    I lifted my gaze to meet him in shock, thinking he had been joking about the payment thing at first, but after carefully studying him, I could see that he was pretty serious.

    ¡°Oh, you don¡¯t need to pay me,¡± I coughed out, feeling awkward.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be more than willing to tutor you, but you¡¯d have to take me seriously and actually put in efforts. I need to see improvements as fast as possible because that¡¯s what¡¯s going to make me want to keep on tutoring you.¡± I exined and he nodded his head firmly, looking quite determined.

    ¡°You¡¯ll cover all those courses for me for free?¡± He asked, pointing at the list with me and I could hear the awe in his voice as his eyes glinted a little.

    ¡°Yes,¡± I replied affirmatively, ¡°You don¡¯t have to pay me, however you can make me proud and not let me regret ever helping you by getting good grades in these courses,¡± I added, ¡°That¡¯s the only payment I¡¯ll ept.¡± I finished with a smile which he returned.

    ¡°I promise to do just that.¡± He affirmed and we spoke for a little more while before finally deciding to part ways. Xander is a great and respectful guy from what I could tell so far and I could already tell that I would love tutoring him.

    He paid for our tea and we left. I didn¡¯t have anything else to do at school anymore for now, so I seized the opportunity to go to the library.

    I needed a little peace and quiet.

    If I went home now, I would be unable to do my assignments in peace so far stupid Mason was around.

    I picked out the books I needed to help me with my assignments and I started. I didn¡¯t know a lot of time had flew by until I checked my phone and saw that the time was past five in the evening.

    I rushed out of the library in a hurry and halted a taxi, imputing the address into his goggle map.

    I got home aroundst six PM and the time I¡¯d set aside for tutoring Xander was 7 PM. I didn¡¯t have much time to prepare, but I know I¡¯d still be able toe up with something before he arrives.

    I scanned the house for Danny and my mother to find out that they weren¡¯t around.

    I hurriedly made my way to my room and the sounds I was hearing echoing loudly in the hallway wasn¡¯t really surprising.

    But, it was definitely disgusting.

    Mason was currently having sex and the girl this time was moaning like there was no tomorrow.

    I scrunch my nose in disgust as I paused in front of my bedroom door, while eying his bedroom door up, which was situated a few feet away from mine.

    The more I stared, the more the idea I had suddenly gotten, brightened in my head.

    I slowly walked towards his door and stood before it, and then I inhaled deeply.

    ¡°You¡¯re not the only girl he fucked in the past few days, he had another one over yesterday and trust that she was decent enough to be silent while getting fucked! So,  keep your fucking voice down!¡± I shouted and almost immediately, the lewd sounds in the bedroom slowly halted.

    I hurriedly made my way back to my room,ughing gleefully to myself as I got ready to take a quick shower.

    Minutester, I brought out the needed books and then I started drafting a time table of the subjects I¡¯d be sifting through with Xander. I got a few more important things together, knowing that I needed to be fully prepared before he got here.

 Chapter 23

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I continued ncing through the studying materials I hadid out, trying to draft out an outline for our lessons. I don¡¯t offer the same elective courses he does but it didn¡¯t mean I couldn¡¯t move some things around in order help him out.

    ¡°History, check. Psychology, check.¡± I started saying to myself as I cross checked my draft and timetable. I was engrossed in that until the doorbell suddenly rang, pulling me back to realty.

    The doorbell rang again and I immediately head towards it, knowing it was Xander. I was about to exit my bedroom before remembering that I had left the things I was supposed to work with back on the bed, which made me skip back to get them.

    In there, I realized that no noise wasing from Mason¡¯s room still, and that made me pat myself vibing the back for a job well done as I exited my bedroom.

    I mentally stored the hack away in my head, which was to bang on his door and yell out those same words each time he have a girl over.

    My joy knew no bounds. He had probably taken the girl elsewhere else to fuck her in but I couldn¡¯t care less as long as I¡¯m not getting disturbed.

    I hurried down the stairs momentster, slowing down to a stop on realizing that the front door was already opened.

    By no one but the devil, aka Mason.

    I blinked in confusion as I walked closer, instantly noticing how Mason was blocking the entrance of the opened door with the broadness of his body. I had a feeling he was also staring Xander like the rude asshole that he is.

    ¡°Hi.¡± I heard Xander breath out but Mason said nothing in response.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, is this Ava¡¯s house? or am I the one in the wrong house?¡± He asked, sounding genuinely confused and I rolled my eyes on noticing that Mason had been about to bang the door in  Xander¡¯s face.

    Trust Mason to keep exceeding the length of his assholish attributes that I have in my head.

    I quickly climbed down the rest of the stairs, cradling the studying materials in one hand as I reached forward to shove Mason out of the way.

    ¡°I am so sorry,¡± I said to Xander with a warm, weing smile and then I beaconed him in. He was hesitant st first, and I had no idea why until i realized that he was staring atop my head.

    I nced behind me to notice Mason standing a few inches behind me, ring at Xander.

    I rolled my eyes and focused back on Xander.

    ¡°Come in, please. I¡¯m so sorry for keeping you waiting.¡± I breathed out and as Xander slowly stepped in, I shot Mason onest re as I walked past him.

    ¡°For a moment back there, I thought I got the wrong house,¡± Xander started to say with a small, awkwardugh, and then he nodded at Mason.

    ¡°Is he your¡­ brother?¡± He asked and I looked at him in utter disgust, just why does he have to ruin my entire mood like that?

    ¡°No, I¡¯m her boyfriend and we were kinda in the middle of something when your stupid ass showed up.¡± Mason replied sarcastically and I shot him a death re.

    How dare he.

    A nce st the shocked look on Xander¡¯s face, showed that he had bought that.

    ¡°We had an agreement that I¡¯ll be here by 7, so, I thought¡­¡± Xander began to speak and I sighed tiredly, wishing I could reach out and strangle Mason until he stopped breathing.

    Why the fuck will anyone sane believe a word Mason says?

    ¡°He¡¯s not my boyfriend, Xander. That¡¯s like the grossest thing I¡¯ve ever heard, and trust that I¡¯ve heard a lot of gross stuff before.¡± I responded on a long exhale as I walked alongside Xander, leading him into the sitting room and in there, I dumped my books on the floor.

    I knew Xander was waiting for me to tell him who Mason was to me but there¡¯s no way I¡¯d call him my step brother audibly. I cussed silently as I sat down on the floor alongside the stufy materials, and Xander did the same thing after a few moments.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to have to start from the basics. Please ask questions whenever you don¡¯t understand what I¡¯m saying,¡± I started to speak and Xander let out a small groan.

    ¡°Are you going to study or are you going to groan all day long?¡± I asked in a smallugh as Xander settled down and picked up his writing materials, drawing closer to me. I went through the pile of books and I found what I was looking for.

    ¡°As I was saying, I don¡¯t want it to seem like I¡¯m speaking in Chinese.¡± I added as I handed him the time table.

    ¡°Well, I understand Chinese.¡± He cut in and I heard Mason snicker.

    Okay, did I feel like I was going to enjoy tutoring Xander?

    Probably.

    ¡°I meant, I don¡¯t want it to seem like I¡¯m speaking in a foreignnguage, preferably one you don¡¯t understand.¡± I added and he nodded in understanding as he dropped the timetable.

    We soon began studying and just when it began to be a little bit enjoyable between us, my worst nightmare turned to reality before my eyes when Mason suddenly turned the TV, putting it to the ser station and increasing the volume.

    I closed my eyes in frustration as he increased the volume even more.

    I¡¯d thought I was going to be able to tolerate it at first, not wanting to actually get into an argument with him in front of Xander right now.

    A few momentster, he began to yell enthusiastically at the ser yers on the TV as if they would hear him. I didn¡¯t have a problem with that, but it was obvious that he was currently doing that on purpose, which made the anger in me to multiply.

    I nced up from the book I was flipping through, ready to give Mason a piece of my mind without unleashing my full anger, but the words died down in my throat when I realized that Xander wasn¡¯t studying any longer. Instead, he was staring at the television screen with rapt attention, while Mason still wouldn¡¯t stop shouting.

    Angry and fuming with rage, I stood up and picked the remote, turning the TV off in an instant.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    Both guys groaned at once, which made me even madder.

    ¡°What the fuck are do you think you¡¯re doing? That was a freaking penalty!¡± Mason shouted at me and even though I had no idea what that meant, I rolled my eyes as I dropped the remote on the couch.

    ¡°If you were blind or deaf, I would¡¯ve pardoned you but you can hear us studying and you can also see it, and you damn well know that the TV will only get us distracted, coupled with the fact that you kept shouting like a caveman!¡± I shot back at him before turning to Xander who already knew he had iting.

    ¡°And you, you had better concentrate or I won¡¯t tutor you anymore. This is a p to my face.¡±  and I don¡¯t care if you flop in all courses.¡± I said to him and Xander¡¯s eyes widened for a moment before he hastily mouthed an apology.

    ¡°Who are you to try to tell me what to do or what not to do? Are you the only person entitled to the TV? I don¡¯t think so.¡± Mason said, reaching out to pick the remote up once again to turn the tv back on.

    He switched to a music channel this time and increased the volume so loud that nothing else could be heard in the sitting room and I gritted my teeth in anger.

    This son of a bitch.

    He soon started singing along to the song, mouthing the lyrics really loudly and getting on my nerves even more.

    Feelingpletely fed up, I picked up all the studying materials and asked that Xander to follow me upstairs.

    I turned back and picked the remote up, tossing it at him, making sure I didn¡¯t miss and I smiled when it hit his head.

    ¡°Dick!¡± I shouted over the loud music and it stopped momentster.

    ¡°Save whatever you want to say next for you mum when I tell her that her perfect little daughter is fucking the guy she¡¯s supposed to be tutoring who by the way, isn¡¯t even good looking!¡± He called out to Xander and I and I let out a scoff, feeling embarrassed that Xander has to witness this and be dragged into it as well.

    ¡°Fuck you and whatever it is that you n on saying to my mum, asshole¡± I called back before ushering Xander up the stairs.

 Chapter 24

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°How easy is it for a grown up to act around like a fucking child and get on my nerves every damn time?¡± I hissed out as I walked with Xander into my room.

    I heard Mason call out something to me which I didn¡¯t fully catch and I felt my blood boil. I would go back down there to show him the stuff I was made of without thinking twice but I had someone to tutor right now.

    ¡°Fuck you, you fucking son of a bitch!¡± I yelled with every ounce of strength I had in me before mming the door to my room in anger.

    ¡°I had no idea you could cuss this loud.¡± Xander said amidstughter and I released the breath I had no idea I was holding back.

    ¡­and, this was exactly what I had been trying to avoid from the on set.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I usually don¡¯t do this on a normal day, but he always finds the wrong moment to get on my nerves and I¡¯m done having the patience to deal with his attitude.¡± I said, apologising to Xander as I set my books down.

    ¡°It happens, which shows that you guys are indeed actual siblings,¡± heughed, which made me feel irritated. ¡°How old is he?¡± He asked.

    ¡°He¡¯s Twenty-One and actually my stepdad¡¯s son so he¡¯s my half brother. My mum just got married to his dad and now I have to deal with him¡­.¡± I started, outing my rtionship with Mason to Xander against my will.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, you¡¯ll both get used to each other as time goes by, don¡¯t worry.¡± Xander assured me like I needed his reassurance.

    Why do they keep saying these things?

    We settled down to study some timeter, but I had lost every mood I was in to tutor Xander and instead suggested that we yed a game.

    ¡°It¡¯s called 20 questions and that way we can get familiar with each other and get to know stuff about each other.¡± He exined and I nodded in understanding.

    The game got the best of us and we both got carried away. I¡¯d asked him questions about his family and I watched as Xander exined his story to me.

    I got to know that he¡¯s an orphan and had lost his parents at a very young age in a drastic car ident. I felt my heart break for him and I felt a sense of pity for him.

    I have never felt like I was connected to anyone the way I felt like I was connected to Xander, seeing as I also lost my father years ago.

    ¡°Enough of these sad stories,¡± I started, sniffing a little and breathing out a chuckle. Xanderughed and teased me about being soft, seeing as I was currently wiping my eyes.

    ¡°It¡¯s sad, yes. But I¡¯m not crying because of that,¡± I lied and he raised an eyebrow, ¡°Let¡¯s get back to studying.¡± I finished and he had his serious face on as we both studied.

    I never would¡¯ve thought Xander was this intelligent. I would ask him questions and he¡¯d reply correctly, I smiled proudly when he answered a question I wasn¡¯t expecting him to know the answer to.

    My phone rang and I picked it up to see it was the rm I¡¯d set. I checked the time and it was 7 PM already, we both had no idea that the time had gone this fast.

    I packed my books and stood to see him out of the house. We walked down the stairs when I saw that my mum and Danny were back already, catching me off guard.

    ¡°Hi mum, hi Danny.¡± I greeted and they both smiled at me while my mum raised an eyebrow at Xander, she obviously wanted me to introduce him.

    ¡°They were busy having sex in her room under the guise of studying.¡± Mason said in a bored tune but I had already expected that, so it didn¡¯t really catch me off guard.

    I didn¡¯t think twice when I pulled a pair of my slippers off and tossed it at him as hard as I could because he deserves it.

    He was about to retaliate when his dad pulled him back and called us to order, but we still shot stared like daggers at each other.

    ¡°Will you both behave?!¡± Danny admonished. There¡¯s a guest here and the least you both could do is behave for his sake.¡± He added and I apologised while Mason pursed his lips in defiance.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I muttered. ¡°This is Xander, he¡¯s my Coursemate and we were studying. He needed my help with some subjects.¡± I exined and Danny and my mum both smiled at Xander, weing him warmly.

    Danny nudged Mason to do the same thing, not knowing that Mason and I have given Xander a life action of how chaotic we could be. But, Mason only left us alone without responding, he¡¯s too fucking proud and that annoyed me even more.

    ¡°Xander, why don¡¯t you have dinner with us?¡± My mother invited and Xander onlyughed.

    ¡°I can¡¯t at the moment but I promise that the next time Ie here I¡¯ll have dinner with you guys.¡± He said with a smile and my mum smiled back at him as she nodded in understanding.

    I walked to the door with Xander and bid him a goodbye with a smile before finally walking back to the table.

    I took my seat where I least wanted to sit but because my mum and Danny had pestered me, I had to sit with Mason, dinner was going well and both our parents took turns in talking about their day with a smile on their faces.

    ¡°How was your day, Ava?¡± Danny asked and I exined to him that nothing special happened, I only went to school and got back to prepare for the lesson I had with Xander.

    ¡°Yeah, right.¡± Mason said and I only ignored him. He¡¯s not about to ruin our perfect dinner.

    ¡°How was yours, Mason.¡± My mother asked.

    ¡°Oh, you don¡¯t want to know how his day went. All he ever does is have sex like a sex crazed adult. I wonder if he thinks of anything else, like anything productive to do with his life rather than run around with anything in a skirt, you know?¡± I said and my mum and Danny¡¯s mouth dropped open as they looked at me, and then at Mason, but I didn¡¯t care.

    ¡°Mind your own fucking business.¡± Mason snarled at me, his eyes filling up with rage.

    ¡°Pussy.¡± I said beneath my breath but loud enough for him to hear me.

    ¡°If you think I¡¯ll get mad at that then you don¡¯t know me, you¡¯re the real pussy and we both know that.¡± He whispered as he slightly leaned into my side. I bit my bottom lip to refrain from saying anything else.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    He need not worry.

    I¡¯ll get him next time.

    Instinctively, I picked up my steak and threw it at him. He dodged it easily as he stuck his tongue out at me but before he could say anything else, the end of my fork collided with his forehead and I snorted out augh.

    ¡°Good for you.¡± Iughed but soon stopped when Danny yelled at the both of us to shut up.

 Chapter 25

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I woke up early as usual and had groggily made my way downstairs for breakfast. I helped my mum set the table and soon we were all seated and ready to eat.

    I turned to see Mason also making his way towards us and I couldn¡¯t hold back myughter. I soon startedughing to the extent my rib began to hurt.

    ¡°Oh my god.¡± I said amidstughter as I held my stomach and almost fell out of the chair due to my intenseughter.

    ¡°Ava,¡± my mother called but I didn¡¯t pay her any heed. The noticeable bump on Mason¡¯s forehead was making him look really funny and ridiculous, making it hard to control theugher bubbling from my throat.

    ¡°Ava!¡± My mother called out sharply and I slowly stoppedughing, not wanting to anger my mother, even though I still felt likeughing. I tried so hard to hold back myughter.

    ¡°You¡¯reughing at him when you¡¯re the reason he has that cute bump on his head,¡± my mom started scolding me and I only rolled my eyes, ¡°If you hadn¡¯t been careless enough to throw that fork at him, this wouldn¡¯t have happened to him.¡± She finished and I rolled my eyes once again.

    I took a side nce at Mason and I wanted tough once again but the look my mother was regarding me with, reminded me to control myself.

    ¡°Well, he gave me a bump first and no one scolded him but everyone seemed to notice that I¡¯m the reason he has his own bump now. So unfair.¡± I whined as I poked at my pancakes, even though he hadn¡¯t actually given me said bump like I was iming he had.

    I took another look at him and began to silentlyugh, but when I lifted my gaze, it was to see my mum shooting me a displeased look.

    ¡°Well, looking at the bigger picture, you both look more like siblings now since you both have matching bumps on your foreheads now.¡± Danny said and my mother burst outughing while Danny joined her.

    I rolled my eyes at them and wished I could scold them for daring to think something like that was funny, when it clearly wasn¡¯t.

    Breakfast continued silently and I¡¯dasionally steal nces at Mason and stick my tongue out at him while he¡¯d only looked at me disdainfully.

    He had barely said a word aftering down for breakfast this morning. Which was unlike him, on a normal day, he¡¯d have been giving me back to back.

    Perhaps he¡¯s still very angry about the bump thing.

    ¡°I¡¯ll make you pay.¡± He said to me as he subtly leaned into me and I scoffed and stylishly flipped him off.

    At least now, I don¡¯t think any girl would being home with him any time soon ¨C which suddenly reminded me that I didn¡¯t even realized what ended up happening between him and the girl he had been fucking yesterday right before I had gone ahead to bang over the door.

    ¡°Guys,¡± Danny called and we both looked up to answer him, ¡°We¡¯ll be going out today and we won¡¯t be back tonight.¡± He added and then he shared a silent look with Mason. I took a nce at my mother in confusion.

    They¡¯re both going out? And leaving Mason and I to ourselves?

    No fucking way.

    There¡¯s no way they¡¯re going to leave him and I alone in the house.

    We would definitely kill each other before they got back.

    ¡°Where are you guys going?¡± I asked, dropping my fork to pay full attention to the conversation.

    ¡°We made reservations at a hotel and you know how bad I¡¯ve been craving for a get away so Danny and I will be spending the night there.¡± She exined and I nodded slowly even though I was trying to wrap my head around the fact that I will have to be in the house alone with Mason.

    ¡°And we really want you guys to behave till we get back. No yelling at each other, no insults and none of that childish jab you both throw at each other.¡± Danny stated and Mason rolled his eyes.

    There¡¯s really no way in hell that I¡¯d agree to stay home with him.

    ¡°What if I spend the night at Nicole¡¯s? She¡­¡± I was still talking when my mother said her ¡®NO¡¯ firmly.

    ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere to spend the night, you will stay in the house with Mason. The both of you can watch movies or go out or something,¡± she said, ¡°Right, babe?¡± She added as she turned to Danny asking for a backup.

    ¡°Yes, they could y the online games kids their ages y these days as well, that will give them enough time to get to know each other better and bond even more.¡± Danny answered and I groaned.

    I pushed my dish aside as I stood from the table, walking off to my bedroom in irritation. I faintly heard my mother attempt to call me back, which I ignored.

    Mason and I having the house to ourselves? He was going to make sure I dropped dead before our parents returned home.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I got to my room and picked up my phone to talk to Nicole. I told her about everything and how I didn¡¯t want to spend the night in the house alone with Mason.

    ¡°Why are you scared of staying with him?¡± Nicole asked and I shrugged.

    ¡°I¡¯m not scared, I¡¯ll just lose my mind if I spend the entire day with him doing nothing but arguing and fighting.¡± I answered and after a little while of silence between us, Nicole said she woulde over and spend the night with me.

    I couldn¡¯t be anymore grateful, I voiced out my appreciation and told her I loved her before hanging up the call.

    I needed to have my bath and something seemed to be wrong with the shower head in my bathroom. With the towel carefully wrapped around my body, I decided to use the bathroom in the guest¡¯s bedroom.

    I met with Mason in the hallway where he was lightly caressing his bump. The said bump wasn¡¯t that big and could be easily hidden with his hair, but because I loved being extra. I cracked loudly while regarding the bump pointedly, knowing it was going to get him worked up.

    I was still vibrating withughter as I walked past him.

    The mistake that I made next, was not watching the ground carefully, because what happened next, took mepletely by surprise. Whileughing, I mistakenly tripped over one of Mason¡¯s slightly outstretched legs, which made me lose my footing.

    Next thing I knew, my towel had slid down my chest when I was in the process of pushing myself off the ground.

 Chapter 26

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I gasped in horror and hastily tugged my towel back up, but it was already toote because he had clearly had an eye full of my boobs.

    ¡°What the hell are you looking at? Turn away!¡± I yelled out in embarrassment as I tightened the towel even more.

    I took a nce at Mason¡¯s face to see that his mouth was hanging open and his eyes looked as though they were going to pop out of his eye socket.

    ¡°You son of a fucking bitch!!¡± I yelled and for a moment I thought about hitting him across his face but if he decides to do anything to get back at me, then no one woulde to my rescue.

    ¡°What were you thinking before making me trip! What the fuck are you staring at?!¡± I yelled again at the top of my lungs and it was almost as though I would shit myself.

    Mason burst outughing, rubbing my embarrassment in my face and I could hear myself screaming internally. Just a few seconds ago, he had gotten an eye full of my bare chest.

    How mortifying.

    What was I expecting from a man like Mason? I held my towel and had wanted to ask him what he wasughing at but that would do nothing, if he hadn¡¯t made me fall then all this wouldn¡¯t have happened in the first ce.

    ¡°Why would you do that?¡± I demanded, my voice breaking as I hit him across the chest. I¡¯d intended for the hit to be way harder than it initially came out and Mason only took my hand in his and shoved me away from him.

    ¡°My only regret right now is the fact that I didn¡¯t have it on camera.¡± He said amidstughter and I snarled.

    How dare he.

    ¡°Just wait, just wait till I tell my mother and Danny that you¡¯re trying your best to see me naked at all cost.¡± I threatened as I tried to pick up my body wash and body scrubs.

    The sound of Mason¡¯sughter gets me angry each time and now isn¡¯t different. He¡¯s supposed to be apologising and notughing at a mistake he made.

    It wasn¡¯t even a mistake. He¡¯d done it intentionally.

    ¡°Oh please, I¡¯ve seen better bodies and yours don¡¯t evene close so don¡¯t tter yourself.¡± He said as he made his way to his room and the only thing on my mind was to pounce on him and yank his head off his neck but I couldn¡¯t risk my toweling off once again.

    The day went by quickly and I couldn¡¯t wait for Nicole toe over. I picked up my phone to check the time and it was almost 7 PM and when the doorbell finally rang.

    She¡¯d told me to send the address to her so she doesn¡¯t miss her way. I was expecting her a little bit earlier but this works too. I sprung out of my bed to go get the door for her when I saw the door already opened and Mason was trying to flirt with her.

    ¡°Get away from me,¡± I heard Nicole say and I smiled triumphantly.

    That¡¯s my girl.

    ¡°Ava?! Ava!¡± She called out just as I appeared in the doorway.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Speak of the devil and it¡¯ll appear right before you,¡± Mason said on a scoff which made me roll my eyes.

    ¡°Here she is, but if you want to hang out with meter, since, you know? Your friend is such a bore.¡± He added which made me roll my eyes once again.

    ¡°My room is right next to hers by the way.¡± He was still saying when Nicole walked past him and made her way to me.

    She looked so unaffected by Mason and I was finally happy that there was someone else not affected by his stupid charm.

    I pulled Nicole up the stairs as we both walked to my bedroom together, we got in and she mmed the door shut. She looked around the bedroom like there was anyone else in the room with us.

    ¡°Oh my goodness!¡± She started as she pulled me into the bed along with her, already making herself hefortable.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me your step brother was this hot!¡± She eximed and I rolled my eyes.

    Okay, she only decided to act unaffected for me.

    ¡°I had no idea, oh my gosh, he¡¯s so fucking hot. I think I didn¡¯t really get a full glimpse of his face because I saw him that night the other time and with all the lights from the party¡­¡± she continued and I rolled my eyes in irritation.

    To think that I had just been feeling d that she was immune to his charms.

    ¡°One more talk about Mason and you¡¯ll be cleaning up my puke. I¡¯m sure you don¡¯t want that.¡± I muttered and sheughed at me like I was joking.

    ¡°What the hell happened?¡± She asked and I exined the incident this morning to her. I told her he intentionally tripped me and I fell and not only did I fall but my towel fell too and I stood bare chested in front of him for a few long seconds only for him to tell me there was nothing special about my body.

    ¡°He couldn¡¯t even apologise!¡± I yelled and Nicole burst outughing till she was shedding tears and holding her ribs.

    ¡°If you¡¯re going tough at me and not make me feel better then you might as well just leave my room or the house as well.¡± I said as I wrapped myself up and clutched my knee.

    I don¡¯t know what¡¯s so funny about that incident.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± She apologised but soon startedughing again and I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°I¡¯m nevering out of my room,¡± I cried as I took the nket and covered myself up with it. ¡°Or maybe I¡¯ll justmit suicide with my favorite bra.¡± I said as I buried my face in my pillow and Nicoleughed on and on.

    The next thing I know is that I got dragged out of bed by Nicole.

    ¡°If I have to drag you all the way down there, I will but you¡¯ll just have to bear the pains.¡±

 Chapter 27

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I finally decided I was going to leave the room with my best friend. Nicole dragged me down the stairs and since I was still holding my nket, I wrapped myself up in it as we both sat down to watch a movie.

    ¡°So, do you like him?¡± Nicole asked and my eyes widened at her. She knew I hated him so why was she asking if I liked him?

    ¡°Mason? Eww, No!¡± I said firmly before Nicole snickered and told me she wasn¡¯t talking about Mason but about his dad.

    She¡¯d seen a picture of him on the wall in the sitting room and hadmented on how cute and hot he is and how Mason had gotten it from him so I assumed she was talking about Mason.

    ¡°Oh, he¡¯s amazing, he¡¯s alright and way better than his useless son.¡± I answered as I exined to Nicole about how nice Danny is not only to my mother but to me too.

    We spoke for a while as I told her everything and the reason both our parents weren¡¯t home today and Nicole only congratted me before sighing once again.

    ¡°What?¡± I snapped and she smiled, I knew what she was going to say next wouldn¡¯t be what I wanted to hear.

    ¡°Okay, don¡¯t get mad but how does it feel like living with a man as hot as Mason?¡± She asked and I rolled my eyes. I tried to keep my irritation at bay since she¡¯d said I shouldn¡¯t get mad.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± I answered as I picked a chip, ¡°I don¡¯t see anything hot about him, he has a bad character and that clouded the whole supposed hotness.¡± I shrugged as I answered.

    After that, we attempted to focus on the movie ying on therge television.

    The door opened and we both turned to see a drunk Mason making his way into the house, he had a beer in hand and also a cigarette at the side of his mouth. Mason wouldn¡¯t beplete if there wasn¡¯t a woman as drunk as he is beside him.

    He smirked at me and winked as he waved at Nicole before making his way to his room with a different girl this time.

    ¡°See what I¡¯m talking about? He doesn¡¯t do anything productive with his life and he just goes around fucking anything and anybody in a skirt,¡± I started, ¡°He has a different girl for a different day and he had the gut to even wink at you.¡± I finished with a sigh and a gag as I rested my back against the chair.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°How do you think it will feel like having a threesome with Mason?¡± Nicole asked and my eyes widened.

    I¡¯d just said all these things and she heard none of them and is only curious about having a threesome with him.

    ¡°Nicole?!¡± I called and she apologised bashly as we both decided it was time for bed. I turned off the TV and we both walked to my room since we have sses tomorrow.

    We got up early to get to school and soon we were back to the rustling and bustling of students.

    I had gone to get coffee for Nicole and I walked into the ss to see her studying. I smiled as I handed her a cup of steaming coffee and sat beside her to continue studying.

    We had an ancient history test and we both needed to be prepared. We asked questions from each other and the both of us couldn¡¯t be anymore proud of each other as we answered the questions boldly.

    We are now prepared for the test but one can¡¯t be prepared enough so we decided to study even more.

    ¡°Okay, I just can¡¯t wrap my head around how sexy and smoky hot Mason is and to be honest if it wasn¡¯t for Ryan who of course I love so much and is my boyfriend, I¡¯d definitely wanna get nasty with him,¡± Nicole started, digressing from our real topic, ¡°I would totally bang your step brother.¡± She added and my jaw dropped.

    To be honest, Nicole would bang anything as long as it¡¯s good looking.

    I¡¯d almost choked on my coffee and I stared at Nicole in disbelief. This is the same Mason Iin about every single day.

    ¡°You know what, I¡¯m going to get my ears cleaned because I really can¡¯t believe what I just heard so I¡¯m gonna go clean it up and be sure.¡± I said as I picked up my books and cup of coffee.

    What the hell?

    ¡°We¡¯re going to see after the test, yeah?¡± She asked and I only nodded.

    I left the ssroom and headed back to my next ss, one I didn¡¯t share with Nicole. Xander was already seated in ss and I smiled when he instantly waved at me as soon as he noticed me.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call me after Monday¡¯s lesson?¡± I asked and he opened his mouth to talk but before he could I took it out of his mouth.

    ¡°I really do not me you though, you know, after getting to meet my family and seeing how they are, who wouldn¡¯t run for the nearest exit, right?¡± I asked with a sigh that made Xanderugh.

    ¡°Stop overreacting,¡± he started with a small chuckle as he nudged me with his shoulder and I turned to look at him, ¡°I in-fact love your family and I really would love to see them again. I enjoyed everything, especially how you and your brother bantered.¡± Heughed. ¡°It looked really fun. I wish I can be able to experience that.¡±

    There he goes again calling Mason my brother.

    ¡°So why didn¡¯t youe back?¡± I asked.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯ve been dealing with some things but I¡¯m good now. Could we study at my ce today instead? It¡¯s Wednesday.¡± He said and I smiled.

    ¡°Of course.¡± I replied, agreeing to study with him and we both talked for a while and had even gone over some questions together.

    I looked around the ss to see some of the students studying while most of them were distracted and talking to each other.

    Our professor soon walked into the ssroom and I smiled at Xander as we both focused on ss.

 Chapter 28

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ss was soon over and since we didn¡¯t have any other ss to attend, I thought I was going to go with Xander to his house.

    I pulled out my phone to text Nicole and tell her that she can just leave with Ryan and I will leave with Xander since I have to tutor him at his own house. She responded to my texts momentster.

    ¡®Be sure to use protection. I love you. Xoxo.¡¯

    I read the text and I almost checked on my spit. I rolled my eyes as I wondered if Nicole ever thinks about anything order then sex.

    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re ready?¡± Xander¡¯s voice came from behind me and I locked my phone immediately as I turned to look at him.

    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s go.¡± I answered as we both started walking out of the school premise, I looked around trying to catch a cab before Xander said something that caught my attention.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I don¡¯t have a car.¡± Xander apologised and Iughed.

    Why is he apologising for something like that?

    ¡°I don¡¯t have a car either, do I?¡± I answered and we bothughed as we waited for the bus stop. I¡¯d suggested we take a cab but Xander insisted on taking the bus and I couldn¡¯t argue with him.

    We finally got on the bus and soon we were at his house. He has a pretty small apartment and even our previous apartment was bigger than this but who cares about the size of his house?

    We got in and I was surprised that the house was well furnished on the inside, it was also pretty. I looked around for a while and saw pictures of Xander at the orphanage and also pictures of him with other kids.

    My curiosity grew and I wanted to know the story behind each picture. I asked and he happily answered with a slight smile but I knew his heart ached.

    ¡°They all got adopted except me,¡± he exined, staring at the picture and getting lost for a while beforeughing slightly, ¡°They all wanted a smaller kid and I was too old to be adopted.¡± He finished as he tucked both his hands in both sides of his pocket.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± I muttered but he only shrugged it off and told me he doesn¡¯t want me to pity him.

    ¡°Well, after my high school. The orphanage got me this apartment and they also sent money for my upkeep but I still have to work to raise money to pay the bills.¡± He exined with a smile.

    How is he able to smile after going through all of these horrible things? Losing his parents, friends, and rejection by foster parents?

    I felt bad for him and I¡¯d wanted to hug him while I tell him everything will be alright, I had everything while growing up except a father while Xander grew up with nothing.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Stop that.¡± He said and I sniffed as I looked up to meet his gaze.

    ¡°Stop what?¡± I asked, oblivious to what he meant.

    ¡°The pity, the tears. I don¡¯t want you to feel pity for me because I¡¯ll be honest, I love my life the way it is and I wouldn¡¯t change it for anything else in the world.¡± Heughed, trying to get me tough too but I couldn¡¯t.

    I still pitied him and I finally understood why he loved my family, while I have an annoying step brother, a stepfather and a mom to get home to. Xander always got home to an empty apartment.

    We soon started studying and when two hours had passed, I decided that we should y a game to make it more fun for the both of us and Xander agreed as he was already bored.

    ¡°I¡¯ll ask you a question and if you get it right you get to ask me a question but if you get it wrong then I get to ask you another question.¡± I exined and he seemed excited about what I might ask him.

    The question and answers started and Xander proudly got the first question right and with a smile he asked his own question next.

    ¡°Do you have a dream?¡± He asked and after thinking about it carefully, I realised that I have none.

    ¡°No I don¡¯t,¡± I answered and he raised an eyebrow, probing me to go further. ¡°I like to go with the flow so wherever life pushes me that¡¯s where I go.¡± I answered and he shrugged.

    ¡°Fair enough.¡± He answered as we both continued the game and when he got another question right he¡¯d asked what I liked about him.

    I liked everything about Xander but I haven¡¯t gotten the chance to tell him yet, perhaps this game is to finally give me a chance to tell him.

    ¡°What do I like about you?¡± I asked again and he nodded as I smiled sheepishly. I suddenly felt shy as I took another look at him before bracing myself up properly to finally tell him all I liked about him.

    ¡°I like your attitude, you are a nice gentle guy unlike my jerky step brother and you do have a nice smile too.¡± I went on and told him everything I liked while he listened and I could see him blush a little.

    The questions and answers went on for a while again and yet again, Xander got another question right.

    ¡°Do you have a boyfriend?¡± He asked and I wasn¡¯t expecting him to ask that kind of question.

    ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡± I answered.

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Yes. But I liked a boy once but I don¡¯t think that fits into the category of a boyfriend.¡± I added and Xanderughed at me.

    The question went on and I made sure to ask him a difficult question and I couldn¡¯t be happier when he got it wrong because I can finally get to ask him a question.

    ¡°Do you have a girlfriend?¡± I asked, cing my face on my palm as I braced myself to hear the answer to his question.

    ¡°No.¡± He answered and I was surprised. I wasn¡¯t expecting him to not have a girlfriend.

    ¡°Why? You don¡¯t like anyone?¡± I asked.

    ¡°No, I¡¯ve liked girls and they liked me back or at least that¡¯s what I thought but once they find out I¡¯m an orphan they leave,¡± he exined.

    Why would anyone want to leave him because he¡¯s an orphan? That¡¯s the most stupid excuse to leave someone.

    ¡°I guess no one wants to deal with the emotional baggage thates with being an orphan,¡± heughed. ¡°That was why I told you I¡¯m an orphan when we first met because I don¡¯t want you finding outter and abandoning my ass.¡± He added and Iughed.

    ¡°I would never have left even if I¡¯m just finding out you¡¯re an orphan.¡± I said as I took his hand in mine and Xander lifted his gaze to meet mine.

    We stared at each other for what seemed like minutes and I soon found myself leaning into him as I closed my eyes without thinking.

    Xander is a great guy and I waa sure I wouldn¡¯t regret it if he got my first kiss.

    We leaned closer into each other and just when our lips were about to touch, my phone rang.

    Shit!

 Chapter 29

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The ring sound of my phone ringing made the both of us jump as we both flew apart from each other. I looked around in embarrassment as I searched for my phone and Xander pointed out that it was in my pocket.

    I cussed silently as I picked my phone out of my pocket to check the caller ID. I swear if it¡¯s Mason, I would cuss him out before asking him never to call me ever again.

    I sighed when I saw that it was my mum. Why is she calling me at this perfect time? She¡¯d ruined what was supposed to go on between I and Xander.

    I looked at him and he also seemed embarrassed as he picked out his phone to scroll through it. I picked the call to stop the torturing sound of my ringtone.

    ¡°Mum?¡± I said into the phone, no matter how hard I tried, my anger and embarrassment could be heard in my voice.

    ¡°Where are you?¡± She asked and I groaned, does she still think I¡¯m a baby for her to always keep tabs on me.

    ¡°Mason called me just now to tell me you haven¡¯t been home and it¡¯s gettingte.¡± She added, she was worried about me.

    ¡°I told you I tutor Xander, right?¡± I asked, ¡°I¡¯m with him right now and we¡¯re studying but I¡¯ll be home soon since we¡¯re almost done. I¡¯m sorry mom.¡± I exined as I apologised to her for the fact that I¡¯ll be getting homete.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, just be sure to get home early and say hi to Xander for me.¡± She said and I told her I would before she hung the call up.

    I turned to look at Xander and he still seemed busy with his phone before I called his name.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry but I have to go now,¡± I apologised and Xander told me he understood that I have to be home soon.

    ¡°But, we¡¯ll get to meet on Saturday, right?¡±

    I added and he nodded instantly.

    I couldn¡¯t wait to get some alone time with him again, perhaps by then, we might finally get to kiss.

    I felt some sort of connection to him, which I couldn¡¯t really understand yet.

    We both walked to the bus stop and when the next bus came, Xander pulled me in for a hug before saying his goodbye and I took the bus home.

    The ride on the bus home wasn¡¯t as long as I thought it would be with the thought of Xander filling my mind and making me feel a little giddy. I really couldn¡¯t wait to see him again.

    Who knew that me agreeing to tutor him would lead to this?

    I got home and the house was unusually silent. I made my way to the hallway and for a moment I¡¯d thought Mason wasn¡¯t home until I heard slight moans echoing from his side of the hallway, making me let out a groan.

    He¡¯s home.

    ¡°Fuck, yes.¡± The random girl of today screamed and I immediately covered my ears to restrict it from hearing any more disgusting sounds, like the wet sounds that were getting embarrassingly louder and louder.

    I retched as I walked past his room and the sound of the girl¡¯s moan annoyed me even more that I felt like kicking his door down and yanking her out of the house naked with her hair.

    I walked to my room with my hand still on both my ears as I got inside. I picked up my phone to call Nicole and tell her about what¡¯s currently happening.

    She picked on the second ring and what she said next was typical of her and I wasn¡¯t expecting any less.

    ¡°Are you still a virgin?¡± She asked and I rolled my eyes in disgust, ¡°I¡¯ll be disappointed in not you but Xander if you answer yes to that question.¡± She added and Iughed.

    ¡°Yes, I still have my virginity,¡± I answered and I heard her groan, ¡°Xander is just a guy I¡¯m tutoring and no one is losing their virginity to anyone.¡± I answered with augh.

    ¡°How the fuck is he going to be just a guy you¡¯re tutoring?¡± She asked and I had no idea what she meant by that question, ¡°Xander is a hot dude and goodness gracious, I thought I was starting to rub off on you.¡± She added and Iughed.

    ¡°Stop overreacting, Nicole.¡± I cautioned.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me to stop overreacting, you have no idea how to have fun.¡± She added with a hiss and I rolled my eyes again.

    We spoke for a while and hung up as Iid on my bed with the thought of what would have happened between Xander and I.

    We were at the verge of kissing and I have no idea what would have happened if my mum didn¡¯t call, I wasn¡¯t sure of how far I¡¯d have been able to go, but one thing was sure, and it was that I might most definitely not been able to go all the way with him.

    I sighed at the thought before bringing myself back to order, I shouldn¡¯t be thinking about him like this and just like I said to Nicole, he¡¯s just a guy and I want him to remain that way, even though I felt a little bit of something for him.

    I¡¯m never going to let anything like that happen again. I closed my eyes to try and catch a nap when my stomach growled. I¡¯d thought I was only hungry but the pain soon intensified and I clutched my stomach tightly.

    I tossed and turned on the bed before finally deciding to stand up and get to the restroom, I stood up to see my bed stained with blood already.

    Great, what a great way to end the day.

    I should¡¯ve known. I snatched a tampon and walked out of the room as I made my way to the bathroom in anger and frustration.

    I groaned again when the pain kept growing stronger and I walked slowly down the hallway, I got to the bathroom to see Masone out of there and he wasn¡¯t alone, he was with a girl, probably the one he was fucking when I walked in.

    I stood, waiting for them to get out of my way so I could get to use the bathroom but he thought I was looking at him.

    ¡°Stop gawking at me, if I wanted to have you I would¡¯ve taken you but it¡¯s so unfortunate that you¡¯re not my type.¡± Mason said and I hissed.

    What makes him think I was gawking at him?

    I pushed him out of my way and he almost hit his head as I rushed into the toilet before banging the door right in his face.

    I really couldn¡¯t wait for the bathroom in my bedroom to be fixed so I wouldn¡¯t have to keep getting into stupid situations like this one.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 30

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Being on one¡¯s period is the worse thing that can ever happen to a girl.

    Feeling in a severe amount of pain, I ruffled through my drawer to get my pain relief drug and I took it in hopes that my menstrual cramp would subside a little but it seemed as though the drug wasn¡¯t working.

    Clutching my stomach and tossing and turning on my bed, I finally decided that I was going to ce a pillow under my belly and I wasn¡¯t expecting it to make me feel better than the drug I took previously.

    I closed my eyes in a bid to catch some sleep and also gather some strength before my mum and Danny got back. The sound of the door banging and the voices of people downstairs woke me from my sleep.

    Groaning, I stood from the bed and walked slowly since I felt weak. I needed to make myself a hot cocoa and also tell my mum what¡¯s going on with me.

    ¡°Mason, go get your sister.¡± I overheard Danny tell Mason and his groan was loud enough that I could hear it all the way from up the stairs.

    I also don¡¯t want him inside my room because I know I¡¯m going to make sure he regrets it, rolling my eyes, I walked down the stairs and coughed so my presence would be known.

    ¡°What is wrong with you? You look pale.¡± Danny pointed out but I was too weak to answer him and I just made my way to the kitchen and proceeded to make my cocoa.

    I searched everywhere for the heating pad but I couldn¡¯t find it and finally gave up. I walked back to the dining room and it seemed as though my mum already knew what was wrong with me.

    ¡°Where¡¯s the heating pad, mum?¡± I asked. I could feel Danny and Mason¡¯s eyes on me and that was when I realised I haven¡¯t really said anything to Danny or even acknowledged him.

    ¡°Hi.¡± I said and he only nodded, he seemed as though he didn¡¯t want to get on my nerves so he didn¡¯t say anything.

    I turned back to my mother who told me where the heating pad was and I went to get it and filled it with warm water before picking up my ss of Cocoa.

    ¡°She¡¯s been cranky all day, is she okay?¡± I heard Mason ask and I rolled my eyes. What does he care if I¡¯m okay or not?

    ¡°It¡¯s that time of the month and she definitely got her crankiness from me,¡± I heard my mother exin and I rolled my eyes. I couldn¡¯t help but want to wait to hear what they had to say about me. I enjoyed hearing my mum¡¯s stories about her period but I was in too much pain to wait behind.

    Luckily, their voices were loud enough that I could hear them so I kept my room door open.

    ¡°When it¡¯s time like this, her father would usually make her the hot cocoa and help her with the heating pad before rubbing her tummy for her till she falls asleep.¡± I heard my mothers voice again and I smiled.

    She¡¯s right, my dad would usually get me all I needed while all I had to do wasy down and enjoy how he treats me like a princess.

    Some timeter, I heard footsteps and I¡¯d thought it was my muming up to check on me when I saw the frame by the door and it was Danny, standing awkwardly at the doorway. I smiled wryly as I tried to sit up and sip on my cocoa some more.

    ¡°No, please,y back down.¡± Danny said, walking into my room and quietly shutting the door after him, before taking the cup from me. Iid back down properly in order to feelfortable once again.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I mumbled and coughed dryly before exhaling sharply. My back hurts a lot and I really could use a little bit of back and belly rubs.

    ¡°I came to ask you for something,¡± He started, rubbing his palm together like a nervous child, ¡°I wanted to ask if you¡¯d like to see a movie with me this weekend? When you¡¯re feeling better, of course.¡± He spoke fast and I couldn¡¯t help but smile through the pains I was currently in.

    ¡°Yes, I would love to.¡± I answered and he grinned as he came forward to have his seat beside me after confirming if he could.

    We spoke for a while and I got to learn some more things about him and also about Mason.

    The same way my mother couldn¡¯t mention ten things without mentioning five times, was the exact way it is with Danny, and I tried not to feel triggered by it.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he¡¯ll warm up to you with time and you¡¯ll surely get to know that he isn¡¯t that bad.¡± He assured me and I only nodded since I didn¡¯t have enough strength to argue right now.

    ¡°Did youe in here to ask me about the movie?¡± I finally asked and he sighed before shaking his head negatively.

    ¡°No, Uhm, your mum told me that when it¡¯s the time of the month, your dad would rub your tummy so I¡¯m here since he isn¡¯t.¡± He answered and my heart warmed.

    ¡°Are you not mad about the fact that she brought up her dead husband?¡± I asked and he shook his head negatively.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    ¡°No, in fact, I¡¯m d she said it because only then can I know what to do right,¡± he answered with a smile that made him look almost really young again, ¡°so, can I help? You know, rub your tummy for you? If you don¡¯t find that weird, of course.¡± He asked and I nodded affirmatively, feeling my chest warming up some more.

    ¡°I really would appreciate that, the heating pad is helping but there¡¯s nothing more soothing than a real stomach rub.¡± I said, leaning into him and although he seemed shy and awkward, he ced his hand on the lower part of my stomach to start rubbing it while I closed my eyes to enjoy it.

    ¡°Do you mind talking about your dad while I rub?¡± He asked and I opened my eyes to take a look at him and I could see that he was genuinely interested.

    Agreeing to talk about my dad, I told him everything I could remember about him and we both smiled andughed together.

    My eyes soon started feeling heavy and I didn¡¯t know how long I could keep them open before they finally gave in to their desire to close while I fell into a deep sleep.

 Chapter 31

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I got up as early as I could to get ready for my ss. I walked to the kitchen silently to pour myself my usual ss of milk and I almost shrieked when I saw a blurry figure beside the fridge. I flicked the light on to see that it was Mason.

    He had a bowl of Ice cream with him and was eating it silently. His eyes narrowed down at me but he didn¡¯t say a thing as he scooped another spoonful of ice cream into his mouth.

    ¡°The least you could¡¯ve done is switch on the lights,¡±  I muttered as I walked past him, ¡°it¡¯s dawn already and you scared the shit out of me.¡± I added as I picked up a ss and poured my milk in.

    ¡°Why are you all dressed up so early in the morning?¡± He demanded but I ignored him, ¡°On your way out to go fuck that guy you im to be tutoring, right?¡± He added, answering his question by himself.

    ¡°Mind your own business.¡± I mumbled with an eye roll.

    ¡°Typical answer.¡± He scoffed out.

    ¡°I¡¯m not you and will never be you who would do anything to getid,¡± I spat out at him in irritation, eyes widening in shock on realising that a few milk drops had sttered over his face.

    ¡°Why would you spit on me?¡± He demanded and I scoffed.

    ¡°It was clearly a mistake.¡± I responded with an eyeroll as I proceeded to rinse my cup.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to the library to get my assignments done and also study before my morning ss, if you must know.¡± I finished as I wiped my hands.

    ¡°You should apologise for spilling milk over my face.¡± He demanded but I pointedly ignored him.

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m gonna get you back for this.¡± He added, walking past me in what I¡¯d term as irritation and I watched as he made his way to his room.

    Momentster, I walked out of the house and made my way to the library and once I was done with everything I needed to do, I made my way to ss hurriedly. I didn¡¯t want to bete for the lecture.

    Getting into ss, I looked around and Xander was nowhere to be found. I shrugged as I made my way to a seat in the middle of the ss. He probably has something to attend to and that¡¯s why he¡¯s not in ss.

    The ss went well and it wasn¡¯t long before the professor finished with what he¡¯d intended on teaching us. Packing my books in a bid to leave, I heard my name and turned to see my professor.

    ¡°How¡¯s the tutoring lesson going?¡± He asked and I smiled as I exined to him that Xander was catching on even faster than I expected him to.

    ¡°Great, I¡¯m d you¡¯re both doing well. Keep up the good work, Ava.¡± He responded warmly and I smiled again.

    ¡°I will, thank you.¡± I answered and watched as my professor left the ss.

    I exchanged a few words with a few of my course mates, walking with all the way to the busstop where we ended up boarding different buses.

    I knew I could get an Uber to wherever I needed to go, the money Danny was frequently wiring into my ount was more than enough to cover the expenses, but I still saw Uber rides as unnecessary especially when I can easily board a bus.

    On arriving home, I buried my head in my books since I needed to study. When I heard my mother yelling my name about half an hourter, I scampered out of my room as I wondered why she¡¯s currently yelling I and Mason¡¯s name that way with such urgency.

    Getting downstairs, I squealed when I saw that she¡¯d got a puppy dog, she knew how much I loved dogs and I rushed to pick it up and soon started petting and kissing it while Mason only stared at me disdainfully.

    It was obvious he hated dogs.

    Can he get any worse than he already is?

    ¡°I was thinking you can both decide on a name for it.¡± Mum suggested eagerly.

    ¡°Be.¡±

    ¡°Sparkle.¡±

    We hadn¡¯t let my mumplete her statement before we both yelled out different names. I shot Mason a dirty re, if he hates dogs then why does he want to name her?

    Knowing him, he only wants to do this to spite me.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I thought you hated dogs, why are you naming her if it¡¯s not to obviously annoy me!¡± I shot at him while hugging the dog tightly, as If protesting it from Amazon.

    ¡°Who names a dog Be? What the fuck is a Be?¡± He scoffed out and the re on my face got more prominent.

    It didn¡¯t take long for us to almost eat each other up and yank our heads from off our respective necks, but Danny came in at the right time to stop the argument.

    ¡°Will you both stop it and get a grip on yourselves!¡± Danny yelled and the house fell silent, ¡°I and your mother are sick of always having you both fight and brawl like little kids, aren¡¯t you guys tired?¡± He said and my gaze fell on the floor.

    ¡°Even the neighbours are tired of your fights and they keep telling us to put you both on a leash or they¡¯ll have to get you both arrested for disturbing the peace of the neighbourhood.¡± Danny continued and I heard Mason scoff beneath his breath.

    ¡°We only got the dog so you both would get closer since a dog is man¡¯s best friend and also the best wingman. We really are tired of seeing you both fight each time.¡± My mother said and she sounded exhausted and tired.

    ¡°We¡¯re calling her Coco and whether you both like it or not, you¡¯re to bathe, feed and walk the dog together.¡± My mother said firmly and I opened my mouth to disagree with her when she shot me a stare that made me shut my mouth at once.

    ¡°The next time I find you both arguing or doing anything stupid, Mason, I¡¯ll take your car keys and you¡¯ll be grounded without the privilege of having any friends over.¡± Danny said and Mason only scoffed at that. He was obviously annoyed but of course, his annoyance brought me joy.

    I wasughing beneath my breath when my mother began to speak.

    ¡°And Ava, you¡¯ll be banned from talking to Nicole, you¡¯ll also be grounded without any electronic gadget if you don¡¯t behave.¡± She said and my face fell.

    The sound of Mason¡¯s quietughter made my stomach churn and I just wanted to bite him like a dog would.

 Chapter 32

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Walking back home from the coffee shop, I needed a cup of coffee to refuel my energy after the long stressful day at school. I cleaned the beads of sweat that formed on my forehead and stood for a while to try and catch my breath.

    I¡¯m so fucking tired.

    I opened the bottle of water I had with me and took a sip before I heard the revving of a car and it stopped before me. I would recognize the car anywhere.

    Rolling my eyes, I hissed as I tried to walk past him. I didn¡¯t have the strength for any sort of argument and although it killed me inside, I knew I shouldn¡¯t insult or cuss him out right now because I didn¡¯t want to be on my mothers bad side.

    The only time we get to be together is when we¡¯re feeding or walking Coco, bathing her would have to wait because I¡¯ll be damned if I get wet around Mason and anything aside from that and we might be chopping our heads off.

    ¡°Where are youing from and why do you look like you¡¯ve had your life sucked out of you? Were you riding some bastard¡¯s dick?¡± Mason blurted out instantly and I closed my eyes in frustration.

    Here I am trying to avoid speaking to him, but trust him to start off with something that¡¯s most likely to set me off.

    I needed to keep my anger at Bay before I do something that might get me grounded or worse, prevent me from not talk to Nicole for a month.

    ¡°Listen to me and I really do want you to listen well. As excruciatingly painful as it is to not insult you, I¡¯m trying my best to be the bigger person so please, leave quietly and leave me the fuck alone.¡± I said as I walked past his car and tried my best to ignore him.

    ¡°Bigger person my foot,¡± I heard him say before I felt something hit the back of my head and I turned to see a balled paper on the floor with Mason chuckling.

    How could someone as old as him be such a bully?

    ¡°You know, you really need to watch how you talk to me. If I really want to, I can have my dad toss you out like you never happened, I can let your mum stay, cause she¡¯s really awesome and sweet, unlike you, you¡¯re theplete opposite.¡± He said and I felt my blood began to boil.

    How dare he? Despite how hard I tried to avoid him he just had to crawl up from hell to gue my life.

    Not thinking twice, I opened the bottle of water I had with me and emptied it on him as he gasped in surprise.

    He should¡¯ve seen iting.

    ¡°You know what, you¡¯re gonna walk home.¡± He said as he stomped into his car and I rolled my eyes.

    Like I really wanted to be in the same car as him.

    I raised my middle fingers at him before continuing my walk home.

    I ended up taking a taxi home, but made sure to alight a few houses away.

    I got home to Danny and my mum seeing a movie together, looking extremely cosy.

    I sunk into one of the couches and they both regarded me at once.

    ¡°Mum, I¡¯m so tired!¡± I cried out dramatically, making sure to wear an extremely dejected expression on my face. My mom was beside me in an instant and I buried my face in my her shoulders as soon as she embraced me, ¡°I had a very stressful day at school and I ran into Mason, I begged him multiple times to give me a lift home but he only insulted me and made me walk all the way home and now my legs hurt.¡±

    My mum¡¯s mouth fell open in shock and she instantly picked picked up my legs and began to massage it soothingly.

    Mason alighted the stairs, wearing a pair of shorts and sweatshirt. He was about to head into the kitchen when Danny motioned him over.

    ¡°I¡¯m very disappointed in you, Mason. How could you do that to your little sister? Making her walk all the way home in a really hot sun.¡± Danny started and I smiled to myself behind my mum¡¯s shoulders, sticking my tongue out to Mason when he nced down at me in confusion.

    ¡°Ava, I¡¯ll get you a car soon, say in a few months time, as soon as you¡¯ve fully learnt how to drive a car, so it¡¯s best you start learning how to drive immediately.¡± Danny added and I felt my heart soar high.

    My joy became immense that I was soon dancing around and saying my appreciation as I threw myself at him in a hug.

    ¡°She¡¯s lying, dad. Just listen to me.¡± Mason started but I knew Danny wasn¡¯t going to listen to him.

    ¡°You can keep your words to yourself, she had to walk here while you drove. How heartless can you be?¡± Danny shot at him.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    Mason ended up trying to make listen to him. I made sure to give him the middle finger when no one was watching, but he only rolled his eyes before heading into the kitchen.

    After reassuring my mum that I was okay and thanking Danny profusely once again, I headed upstairs and unfortunately collided with Mason in the hallway.

    His hands were deep in his pockets and the hood of the hoodie he had on was hanging over his face, casting a little shadow over the top of his face. I took a step backwards, not liking how being in such close proximity with him was making me feel.

    ¡°Move the fuck over, you¡¯re blocking my way.¡± I mumbled on a huff.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to make your life a living hell, just so you know. You might end up regretting living here sooner thanter.¡± He continued but I rolled myself and forced myself to ignore the pounding in my chest as I slide past him.

    His arm was very firm through the material of the hoodie and it brushed against my boobs a little, which made my cheeks me up a little.

    ¡°Bluff.¡± I spat out with a voice I hoped wasn¡¯t giving anything away, right before I made my way to my room to freshen up and rx a bit. I studied for a while and had a little snack for dinner since I wasn¡¯t really feeling hungry.

    I didn¡¯t see Mason when I went down for dinner, not like I was always searching for his presence.

    Once back in my bedroom, I rounded up super fast because I was feeling really sleepy. Just when Iid down to sleep, I heard strange but familiar voices noises and when I tried to make out what they were saying I figured it was a girl moaning. My stomach tightened and I gagged and scoffed in anger, wishing I could strangle Mason and the bitch he was fucking right now.

 Chapter 33

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The sound of his door opening and closing hourster signified that he was probably seeing the girl off.

    He¡¯d just finished having sex with one of his usual psychos and had also seen her off. I heard the door to his room lock and I immediately knew what was going to follow that.

    I¡¯m done having to put up with his stupid attitude and pretend it¡¯s all fine, stomping out of my room. I made my way to his door and banged on it as hard as I could.

    I¡¯m going to end this once and for all.

    He opened his door and stood by the doorway as if restricting me entry, not like I¡¯d actually want to enter his room, especially when he was literally having sex in here minutes ago. I rolled my eyes and regarded him slowly, his right hand was perched high against the ledge of the door, and one of his eyebrows was raised.

    I averted my gaze and next, my gaze zeroed in on his bare chest, making me stifle a cough and stylishly take a step backwards, having just realised that I had been standing so close to him when he was in nothing but a pair of sweatpants that was hanging really low on his hips, like it would slide off should he move around too much.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°What do you want?¡± He finally broke the silence, eyes filled with irritation and I knew my cheeks were definitely burning right now. His eyes were ghosting over my entire body in the next moment, making me regret not changing into something else being to him right now.

    I was in a pair of tiny sleeping shorts and a small camisole, and with the way he was currently staring at me, I felt extremely naked right now.

    All the confidence I had gathered while in my bedroom went down the drain and once again, I regretteding to knock on his door.

    ¡°We don¡¯t have the whole day¡­¡±

    ¡°Your noise drives me crazy and I¡¯m sick of it so whenever you¡¯re about to have or are having¡­.¡± I paused for a while as if trying to pick my next word carefully, and then I averted my gaze before mumbling the next word, ¡°Sex,¡±

    Color flooded my cheeks after that and I swallowed emptily before continuing once again. ¡°Keep it down. Whenever you have your girls over, doing your stuff together, ensure to keep it down.¡± I added and it took a few seconds for Mason¡¯s manicughter to echo around me.

    If I hadn¡¯t been feeling mortified before, I most definitely do right now.

    What¡¯s so funny about what I¡¯d just said?

    ¡°Do I smell jealousy?¡± He asked once he stoppedughing and my heart hammered against my chest.

    Jealous of what exactly? Him?

    ¡°I¡¯d never be jealous of a man that can¡¯t get a grip on himself!¡± I shot back at him, while my heart continued to race.

    ¡°Well then at least I¡¯m not a shy little virgin who couldn¡¯t even say the word ¡®sex¡¯ without being embarrassed,¡± He shot back at me and my heart dropped into my stomach in embarrassment while my cheeks burned brighter.

    I couldn¡¯t believe he¡¯d actually say that.

    I opened my mouth to speak but nothing came out, all the words were stuck in my throat.

    ¡°Cat got the virgin¡¯s tongue, I see.¡± He mused in a small chuckle before continuing.

    ¡°Look, you can bring whoever you want home and have sex with them. Make as much noise as you want to and I won¡¯t fucking care, okay? Now, please scurry off and mind your own fucking business.¡± He finished before stepping back into his room with our gazes still locked and mming the door at my face.

    I walked back to my room, feeling angry and extremely mortified. As much as I tried to pretend his words didn¡¯t hurt me, It turns out they did and not only was I hurt, I was really angry, and also extremely mortified.

    How the fuck had he even known that I was a virgin?

    I tossed and turned on my bed but I still couldn¡¯t get Mason¡¯s voice out of my head. It kept ringing and thereby getting me even angrier.

    ¡®Shy little virgin¡¯

    The words wouldn¡¯t leave my head. I finally decided to put my headphones on and listen to some calm music before sleep finally engulfed me

    The bright light from the sun that illuminates my room jolted me awake and the first thing I did was pick up my phone. I punched in Nicole¡¯s number and dialled it at once.

    ¡°I need you here, Now!¡± I said in what seemed like an order but I knew she understood and it didn¡¯t take long for her to show up at my house.

    I ushered Nicole into my room and there I exined everything to her, I needed to get out because of how furious I was. I told her everything from when we got Coco to the torture I had to go through as a result of his loud stupid sex.

    I wasn¡¯t done talking when me and Nicole started hearing the noises, proving me right. I saw Nicole roll her eyes in what I¡¯d term as irritation, as a result of the loud sex Mason was having next door.

    ¡°You know what, I always tell you to get a boyfriend. If you had a boyfriend you wouldn¡¯t have to go through these things. Get a boyfriend, invite him over and have loud sex with him.¡± Nicole said as she started pacing around my room.

    ¡°That¡¯s the only way you can get back at him and also prove to him that you¡¯re really not a shy little virgin.¡± She added before settling down on one the chairs I had in my room.

    ¡°I know but I¡¯m not interested in anyone, I don¡¯t have anyone that¡¯s like, you know? Boyfriend material.¡± I tried to exin and hoped that Nicole would understand.

    ¡°What about Xander?¡± She asked and I blinked at her in confusion.

    ¡°What about him?¡±

    ¡°You tutor him and it¡¯s so freaking obvious how much he likes you, why not give him a try?¡± Nicole shrugged and my eyes widened.

    Why would she suggest a thing like that?

    ¡°You can make a move on him, I¡¯m sure he wouldn¡¯t resist you because I know he likes you.¡± She added and I shook my head negatively.

    ¡°I can¡¯t do that, tutoring Xander is business. I¡¯ll never mix business with Pleasure, Nicole.¡± I protested.

    ¡°Oh ye miss goody two shoes. Stay single then and forever listen to your brother have steamy sex for life! Especially how we both know you don¡¯t want him to always see you as a shy little virgin.¡± She shot at me, making me chew on my bottom lip while getting lost in my thoughts.

    We spoke for a while before Nicole finally decided she had to leave. The day seemed to go by slowly as I waited for the time Xander woulde. We both had an agreement to meet at my ce for his usual lesson today.

    Evening soon came and it wasn¡¯t long before Xander arrived. We both got to studying and it was going really well before I remembered I wanted to ask why he wasn¡¯t in school two days ago.

    ¡°Why weren¡¯t you in school two days ago?¡± I asked, lifting my gaze up to meet his.

    He exined to me that he¡¯s been working and needed to take a few days off sses to meet up with some things and I understood as I nodded with a smile.

    ¡°Ava?¡± He called and I answered as I looked at him, ¡°I don¡¯t know how this might sound but Uhm, I¡¯ve been thinking about two weeks ago when we almost kissed¡­¡±

    ¡°That was a mistake.¡± I cut in at once before he could finish saying what he wanted to say. I felt embarrassed and I almost wished for the floor to open up and swallow me.

    ¡°Not to me,¡± he answered, ¡°it wasn¡¯t a mistake on my end. I really wanted to kiss you.¡± He finished.

    What?

    ¡°Can I? Can I kiss you?¡± He asked and my eyes widened. The question was sudden and I was shocked. I wasn¡¯t expecting him to ask a question like that, or for him to be so direct.

    I¡¯d wanted to refuse him when Mason¡¯s words rang in my head again.

    ¡®Shy little virgin.¡¯

    I remembered what Nicole said as well  and I shrugged it off, I¡¯m going to live a little.

    ¡°Yes.¡± I responded shyly, chewing at the side of my lips in hesitation. Xander leaned in closer to me and allowed my eyes to slide close, right before the softness of his lips touched mine.

 Chapter 34

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Xander left for his house since it was gettingte already and I also couldn¡¯t stop thinking about the kiss.

    It wasn¡¯t what I¡¯d imagined, I smiled as I rolled over on the bed and I almost gagged when I remembered my first kiss. It was prom night and we were in my date¡¯s car when we kissed.

    He used too much of his tongue and it almost seemed as though I was being fed his saliva. I expected the kiss to be passionate and sweet but instead it was rough and horrible.

    My date back then wouldn¡¯t stop caressing me, which made me extremely ufortable that I had to end the kiss and leave at once.

    My friend said it was going to be a beautiful feeling but I had felt nothing but disgust during that kiss.

    This kiss with Xavier was really different. It was better than thest kiss I had.

    He didn¡¯t try to cup my breast or touch me inappropriately, he¡¯d only held my chin and ced his soft lips on mine, and it had felt extremely nice. I felt an emotional release within me and I had no idea what it was.

    He kept his hands to himself and he was gentle enough to ask me if I wanted him to stop, if it weren¡¯t for the ringing of his phone then we might¡¯ve even gone further than just kissing.

    I picked up my phone to call Nicole but she didn¡¯t pick up when it rang. Dumping my phone back on the bed, I sank into it as I let different thoughts run through my mind.

    Does this kiss mean something to him?

    Are we dating now?

    Does it mean I¡¯m¡­ special?

    I had so many questions and I mentally pped myself as I brought myself back to order, I won¡¯t talk about my questions with him and have him feeling like I had no sense of pride.

    Finally shrugging it off, I decided I was going to watch a movie to keep my mind busy right now because thinking about the kiss too much might make me go crazy.

    ¡°Ugh, yes, fuck me.¡± I heard when I put on the movie and for a moment I thought it wasing from the TV but I was so sure that I didn¡¯t put any erotic movie on because I don¡¯t watch it.

    ¡°Mason,¡± I heard momentster, making me let out a long sigh.

    I should¡¯ve known.

    He¡¯s back with his usual stupid lousy sex. I tuned the TV louder but that still didn¡¯t stop the sound from getting into my room and that got me annoyed even more.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°You know what, I¡¯m sick of this. I¡¯m done.¡± I said to myself as I stood to make my way to Mason¡¯s room but I stopped when I got to the door.

    What if hees out naked this time?

    What do I want to say to him? My cheeks flushed in embarrassment as I turned back and returned to my bedroom, remembering what he¡¯d called me earlier today.

    Going to Mason would only bring even more trouble for me so I just decided to leave him alone while I turned the volume up louder to the maximum sound.

    The torturing sound that pierced my ears didn¡¯t stop but I managed to watch my movie to the end without getting angrier.

    I turned to studying and that was when I knew that he was doing this intentionally because I have no idea how he could go on fucking for that long.

    Picking up my headphones, I ced it on my ear and continued studying but I was unable to assimte anything and I finally gave up.

    ¡°Son of a bitch.¡± I muttered before cing my pillow on my head as I tried to catch some sleep.

    The sound of doors mming and the light that illuminated my room jolted me awake. It was morning already and I had no idea.

    I stood to make my way downstairs and that was when I saw Mason, he was also heading in the same direction and even though I couldn¡¯t bring him to order yesterday, I¡¯m going to give him a piece of my mind now.

    ¡°Hey, dickface,¡± I called and he turned to look at me with a bored expression on his face. God, I hate that look so much because it didn¡¯t look bad on him like it does on me.

    Bastard.

    ¡°What do you want from me so early in the morning?¡± He demanded as he folded his arms around his middle.

    ¡°I¡¯d walk on hot coal before wanting something from you,¡± I scoffed, ¡°I¡¯m only here to warn you. Keep it down when you¡¯re fucking your sluts or you risk me reporting your shenanigans to your dad.¡± I warned and heughed.

    ¡°You had a guest over yesterday, right? Did you see mee to disturb you or talk about it the way you b around about me like a child?¡± He asked and my eyes opened wide as my jaw dropped.

    Did hee inside my room when I was kissing Xander?

    ¡°Nothing happened between us.¡± I immediately said in a bid to defend myself and Mason¡¯sughter only grew louder.

    ¡°When did I say something happened?¡± He asked with a raised eyebrow and I coughed dryly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t try to change the topic, this isn¡¯t about me,¡± I immediately said, ¡°This is about you and your loud sex, I really am warning you to tune it down onest time.¡± I added.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t study at allst night because of how fucking loud it was and¡­¡± I was still talking whenI trailed off in confusion when Mason closed the distance between us and shoved me backwards before I could get a word out.

    Next, Mason ced one hand on the side of the wall, caging me against the wall and my mouth suddenly dried up, while my heartbeat elerated.

    What the fuck he doing?

    Swallowing my spit really hard, I tried not to feel unnerved even though I already am.

    ¡°Why? Are you jealous?¡± He taunted with augh and I swallowed again, blinking a couple of times and trying to to focus on how stupidly nice his voice sounds, ¡°Do you perhaps wish you were one of those girls I fuck, huh? Are you  only feeling bad because you¡¯ll never be one of them?¡± He added and I instantly got irritated.

    How dare he?

    Shoving him away with all my strength, I gave him onest warning and a dirty re while my cheeks were zing red before leaving the hallway and as I left,  I could hear the echoing sounds of hisughter that made me hiss in irritation.

    I hate him so much and I just wish he would stop dead.

 Chapter 35

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I got to school and looked around for Xander but just like the other day, he wasn¡¯t in ss. I couldn¡¯t help the worry that filled my mind and was also unable to concentrate in ss.

    After ss, I went to the Library with Nicole and in there, I told her everything about what happened between Xander and I.

    ¡°Oh my god, you kissed him?¡± She asked and I shook my head as I told her that he was the one who kissed me and Nicole pulled me in for a hug.

    It seemed like an achievement because she hugged and congratted me dramatically but I only rolled my eyes. I also told her about Mason and how much of a jerk he is.

    ¡°He had the nerve to ask if I was jealous of his girls when all I did was ask him to tone it down a bit, that guy annoys the hell out of me.¡± I said with a sigh as I ced my head on my palm.

    Nicole¡¯s roaringughter almost made me jump and my eyes widened as I tried to tell her to keep it low and also remind her that we are in the library.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    It was toote because the Librarian sent us out of the library in no time and I med it all on Nicole who still wouldn¡¯t stopughing.

    ¡°You know what, I kinda like your step brother,¡± she said and I raised my eyebrow as I asked what she meant by that, ¡°He makes you do things you don¡¯t want to do.¡± She said amidstughter and I hissed.

    ¡°Mason right now is the least of my problems,¡± I started as I looked through my phone and I was still without a call or text from Xander.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Nicole asked when she noticed my sudden concentration.

    ¡°I¡¯m worried about Xander,¡± I answered, ¡°He kissed me first, I didn¡¯t ruin things right? He hasn¡¯t called or even texted me since yesterday and he¡¯s also not in school.¡± I said and Nicole sighed.

    She¡¯d wanted to say something when I cut in again, ¡°What if he didn¡¯t like kissing me? What if he hated it so much that he had to avoid me?¡± I bombarded Nicole with numerous questions while she only tried to calm me down.

    ¡°Just calm down, he definitely didn¡¯t think the kiss was horrible,¡± Nicole started saying when Ryan pulled up beside us with his car, ¡°Just take it easy and we¡¯ll talkter, okay?¡± She added and I nodded as I watched her get into the car before sliding into the back seat.

    They¡¯d decided to pick me up and drop me off at home, I couldn¡¯t be any more grateful because I didn¡¯t want to have to ride home alone.

    We got to our house and I saw Mason outside washing his car, he was shirtless and looking stupidly good while doing something as basic as washing his car. After waving Nicole and Ryan goodbye, I walked deeper into thepound and shit the door behind me. I was heading towards the house when Mason began to speak.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you were out fucking two men?¡± He said and I closed my eyes in frustration as I clenched my fist.

    Why does he always have to open his big mouth to say something stupid every time?

    ¡°I thought you were a virgin? You really must¡¯ve gone bad.¡± He added before picking up the water hose to rinse his car.

    I was done with all his usual taunts and I want to make sure he doesn¡¯t get away with this particr one.

    Looking around, I needed to be sure there was no one around who could serve as a witness and stand against me. I let out a smile when I was sure that there was no one else around except us.

    Pulling my boots off, I picked it up and swung it at him. He got hit in his face and I couldn¡¯t hide the satisfied smirk that yed out on my face as I turned to leave.

    I felt a gush of water on my body and my mouth opened as my jaw dropped. Oh, he really is going to have it.

    I picked up the second water hose and gushed it at him, making sure that he was soaked. He might be shirtless but he had a pair of shorts on and soon we were both standing on the pouch with water dripping down our bodies.

    I hated to admit it but that had been kind of fun, because I hadn¡¯t realised when I had began tough until I noticed Mason doing the same thing.

    I heard Danny¡¯s car pulling into the driveway and I immediately dropped the hose, Mason saw them too because he did the same.

    ¡°What is going on here?¡± Danny asked and I immediately pointed at Mason as I indicated that he started it first only to look and see Mason also pointing in my direction.

    ¡°How dare you?!¡± I said in annoyance when I saw Mason¡¯s finger pointed at me, ¡°He started it.¡± I added and Mason protested.

    Danny looked a little bit angry but my mother wasughing and she seemed to find some amusement in getting home to see Mason and I wet.

    ¡°If you both wanted to get along, there are millions of other ways that you could¡¯ve done that instead of getting everywhere wet.¡± My mum said amidstughter and I rolled my eyes, feeling a little taken aback as well.

    Who is trying to get along with who?

    ¡°Yes, we¡¯re sorry.¡± Mason said with a small smile and I immediately knew what he was doing as I smiled too and apologised.

    We both needed to avoid being grounded and if my mum already thinks we were trying to get along then we had to y along with that.

    ¡°You both go to your rooms and change now, you might catch a cold.¡± Danny said, his countenance was now softer than the time they arrived.

    We both turned to leave and I couldn¡¯t help but overhear my mum tell Danny that Mason and I are getting along and that only meant that their n must be working.

    ¡°I¡¯ll announce the surprise to them soon and I can¡¯t imagine how happy they¡¯ll be.¡± I heard Danny say and my mother agreed with him.

    What surprise are they both talking about?

 Chapter 36

    Ava¡¯s POV

    It¡¯s been three months since my mum and Danny had been married and for those three months I have felt the immense urge to murder Mason by either smothering him in his sleep or just pushing him off a cliff, more times than I can count.

    The only time I barely thought about killing him was when he wasn¡¯t sleeping at home because that was the only time I had enough peace for myself.

    Xander has still not beening to ss and he¡¯d even missed the semester exams, all efforts to call him and ask what the problem was proved futile.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been trying to get through to him but he won¡¯t pick up my call until his number starts sending me to voicemail.¡± Iined to Nicole who understood my worry.

    She¡¯d told me not to worry about it that Xander woulde along but he hadn¡¯t.

    Did I do something wrong? Did I kiss him in a bad way the other time we kissed? I couldn¡¯t help the questions that kept running through my mind as I stared at his number again.

    I called the number again and the same dreadful voice that I now loathe so much was what I heard.

    ¡®Hi. This is Xander, please leave a message.¡¯

    It¡¯s always going to voicemail, we had unfinished business and whatever reason he might have for going ghost on me was one I wouldn¡¯t forgive no matter what.

    The semester break has started and for the first time in months I won¡¯t have to worry about my homework or project or going to school, I¡¯m free from all of that.

    Only problem I had and hated about the break was the fact that I would have to stay in the house with Mason almost every hour of the day, because I unfortunately do not have a lot of friends.

    ¡°I won¡¯t forgive Nicole.¡± I thought to myself as I ced my headphones on.  I would¡¯ve spent the break with her but she bailed on me at thest minute to go on a nned vacation with Ryan.

    How dare they?

    I remembered my mum and Danny had said something about having a family meeting and a surprise for us. My mind couldn¡¯t help but wander off to when I overheard them talking about a surprise, over and over again.

    It¡¯s been a month now. Why did it take them so long? And what could the surprise be?

    I went about my business as I tried to get my mind off what the surprise might be and just concentrate on the game I was ying on my phone.

    The day went by really quickly and it soon got dark, I walked downstairs to join for dinner and after a while of silence, my mother brought out a bottle of alcoholic champagne.

    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± I asked, my eyes widening like I had no idea what she was holding. I knew it was champagne but my mother would never let me drink.

    ¡°It¡¯s champagne, duh.¡± She answered and they allughed as she popped it. She poured Mason and I a ss with a smile on her face.

    I couldn¡¯t miss the glint and just when I was about to ask what we were celebrating, she started talking.

    ¡°Yes, so, I have something to share with you guys but firstly, I really would like to say that time flies,¡± she started and I already knew where she was getting to.

    ¡°It¡¯s been three months since Danny and I got married and these months were the best of the best months of my life and I would never trade it for anything.¡± She smiled and my heart warmed for my mother¡¯s happiness.

    ¡°So, to celebrate, I rented a resort for two weeks on an ind. No distraction, just us.¡± Danny said and I shrieked.

    ¡°That¡¯s great,¡± I squealed as I pped, ¡°First of all, congrattions and secondly, when are you leaving?¡± I asked, excited.

    ¡°We leave tomorrow.¡± My mother answered and my eyes widened.

    ¡°Oh my goodness, that¡¯s great,¡± I hugged Danny and he gave me a slight peck on my forehead, ¡°I¡¯m really happy for you.¡± I added.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± My mum answered and I smiled.

    ¡°So, Mason would be leaving for the family house, right?¡± I asked, ¡°He won¡¯t be going with you guys, right?¡± I asked again and I heard a chuckle that made me want to stab him with a fork.

    ¡°She¡¯s leaving for Nicole¡¯s house too, right?¡± Mason also asked amidstughter and I shot him a re.

    ¡°No one is going anywhere for the holidays, we¡¯re all leaving together.¡± My mum said and I pped excitedly.

    I¡¯d wanted to suggest that Mason don¡¯te along since all he ever does is ruin everything but he also deserves to be a part of this since his dad is.

    ¡°And Ava would be riding with Mason.¡± Danny announced and the smile I had on turned to an instant frown as I turned to look at Mason who obviously wasn¡¯t thrilled as well.

    There¡¯s no way I would ride with him, I can do anything else but travel somewhere with Mason? No way in hell.

    ¡°Why can¡¯t I ride with you guys?¡± I asked Danny and my motherughed as she shared a look with him.

    ¡°Because it¡¯s for you guys to get along some more and bond even more, if you ride with us¡­ you¡¯ll be sort of a distraction.¡± My mother answered and I gagged as soon as I understood what she was implying while Mason snickered but I ignored him.

    ¡°It¡¯s a 6 hour drive!¡± I pointed out and they nodded, ¡°How do you expect me to ride with him for 6 hours? I¡¯ll die!¡± I said firmly but they onlyughed at me.

    I¡¯m being serious here but they think of it as a joke?!

    ¡°You¡¯ll survive.¡± Danny answered with a warm smile and I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°Yeah, right.¡± I mumbled before resting my back properly on the chair.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Besides, we¡¯ll be right behind you after wrapping up somest minute arrangements.¡± My mother added and that did nothing to make me feel better about riding with Mason.

    The trip that once got me excited doesn¡¯t seem so exciting to me anymore, I took a look at Danny and my mother and they both look so happy and can¡¯t seem to be able to wait for the trip.

    Not wanting to ruin it, I kept my mouth shut and only started picking on my food. They¡¯re happy and ruining their happiness is thest thing I wanted to do.

 Chapter 37

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Iid on my bed since I¡¯d already made up my mind not toe out but my mum¡¯s constant knock on my door made it difficult.

    ¡°Ava?¡± She called as she knocked on the door and I knew she was going to try and open it to get in.

    Quickly, I threw the nket over my head and pretended to be shivering as my mum got in.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± She asked, walking over to me and having her seat beside me.

    ¡°I have a cold, I think I might have caught the flu.¡± I exined, sneezing dramatically but my mother only raised an eyebrow as she looked at me.

    ¡°Liar, Ava, you know how much I hate lies.¡±

    ¡°But I¡¯m not even¡­¡±

    ¡°You better stand up from the bed and get ready or you risk having to share your room with Mason when we get back.¡± My mum threatened and I sprung out of the bed at once.

    I would do anything but share the same room with him.

    Getting ready and preparing for our trip, I finished dressing up in no time, choosing to dress extremelyfortably in a pair of joggers and arge tee before going to join Mason who started the car as soon as I got in, and then we got going.

    Mason and I barely said anything to each other, I had my headphones on to block any form of distraction from him, my stomach growled and when he asked if I was hungry I denied it and told him to mind his own business.

    He stopped the car and got some snacks for himself. I felt something drop on myp and I opened my eyes to see that he got some for me too.

    Shoving it aside, ¡°I told you I wasn¡¯t hungry, no one asked you to get a snack for me.¡± I shot at him and his jaw dropped in confusion at first, and then anger.

    ¡°Oh you ungrateful bitch.¡± He snarled through gritted teeth, taking the snack and taking a huge bite out of it.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare call me that, if I wanted to get one I would¡¯ve gotten one. I don¡¯t need you to do that for me.¡± I snarled back at him and he burst outughing.

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s none of my business and you can starve to fucking death for all I care, just don¡¯t die in my car.¡± He replied and my mouth opened to say something but he turned the radio on as usual and loud music started ying.

    Closing my mouth and deciding it isn¡¯t worth it, we both stayed silent until we got to our destination and I couldn¡¯t be any grateful.

    The dreadful ride with him has finallye to an end, the only problem was the fact that we were going to have to offload together.

    Careful about bumping into each other, we unpacked the stuff and soon there was nothing left to bring out of the car.

    Picking up my bag, I made my way up the stairs to look through the rooms. I knew the bigger one would be for the parents so I took another one, it was better than thest.

    I dropped my bag andid on the bed to take a quick nap, the ring sound of the rm from my phone jolted me out of my sleep and I looked to see that I¡¯d slept for almost three hours.

    Hungry, I got out of bed and picked up my phone to call my mum but all attempts to get through to them didn¡¯t work out as their number didn¡¯t go through.

    They¡¯re supposed to be here already, seeing as they said they were going to be riding behind us.

    My stomach growled and I walked down the stairs to see if I could get anything for myself. Mason was down there, syed over the couch but I ignored him as I made my way to the kitchen to find everything still unpacked.

    With a sigh, I started unpacking everything, loading the kitchen cupboards and cabs with things that needed to be in there.

    I could hear Mason walk in minutester and almost immediately, he joined me in stocking the fridge and the taller parts of the cupboard where I obviously couldn¡¯t reach.

    Lucky, tall bastard.

    Although I enjoyed the fact that he was trying to help, I didn¡¯t tell him that because I knew how proud he would get. Shutting my mouth, we both worked in silence and I took extra care to make sure that none of our body touched each other.

    I saw something unusual in the bag and I picked it up to have a close look at it. Not knowing what it was, I kept turning it upside down and I heard Mason¡¯s lowughter when he lifted his head.

    If Mason isughing then this isn¡¯t something I should be touching.

    ¡°That¡¯s a condom.¡± He pointed out and instinctively, I threw it away while gagging, my stomach churned and I remembered my actual reason foring downstairs in the first ce.

    I should¡¯ve known what it was.

    ¡°That is absolutely disgusting, eww. What¡¯s a condom doing in the bag meant for the kitchen!¡± I said as I made my way to the sink to wash my hands.

    I knew it was none other than Danny and my mum¡¯s hand work and they must¡¯ve kept it in there unknowingly, or had probably left in there, thinking they¡¯d be the ones to offload the bag.

    ¡°It really is disgusting.¡± Masonughed and I was shocked to my core.

    He never agrees to something I say, he¡¯s always countering my opinion and attacking me every little chance he gets but he¡¯d just agreed that the idea of the condom was disgusting.

    ¡°Did you just agreed with me?¡± I asked in disbelief before I could stop myself and he nodded with a small shrug, surprising me further.

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s disgusting to be fair, I mean. Condoms in the kitchen, really?¡± He finally said and my eyes widened once again.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°This is the first time in months that you¡¯ll ever agree to anything I say,¡± I pointed out, ¡°You usually always have your own opinion and you¡¯d do anything to state it but agreeing with me? You¡¯ve never done that.¡± I exined and he raised an eyebrow in realisation.

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s because you¡¯re right. The idea of the condom isn¡¯t disgusting but the reason why it¡¯s here is, since it¡¯s about our parents having sex.¡± He continued and then he tilted his head sideways while regarding me when I let out a gagging sound.

    ¡°You do know that they do have sex, right?¡± He asked and I scoffed.

    ¡°Of course I do, but that doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯d like to just admit that out loud.¡±

    He nodded his head while murmuring. ¡°Fair enough.¡±

 Chapter 38

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The silence in the kitchen was ear piercing as Mason coughed awkwardly before walking out of the kitchen while I made my way to the fridge to pick out a bowl.

    Making myself a bowl of cereal, I started eating before hearing footsteps and I looked up to see Mason in the kitchen with me once again, with one of his arms resting at the side of the doorway.

    ¡°Do you care?¡± I demanded, gesturing to my own bowl of cereal. He didn¡¯t respond and without thinking, I decided to make him a bowl anyway, which he cleared up super fast.

    Mason finished and proceeded to wash his bowl without saying a thank you. I regarded him with an irritated scowl before speaking. His rude manners are why I didn¡¯t like him in the first ce.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t your mother teach you any manners?¡± I had already finished talking before I realized what I had said.

    My jaw was clenched as I turned to look at him, and his eyes were darker than they usually were, along with his expression being nk.

    I remembered Danny telling me Mason he became different after his mother left. I should¡¯ve known talking about his mother would trigger some horrible memories.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Mason I¡­ I¡¯m..¡± I stuttered but he shunned me by raising a finger, I watched as he walked quietly out of the kitchen and I couldn¡¯t help but feel exactly bad.

    The sounding from the TV in the sitting room told me he was still there. I tried to shake what just happened out of my head as I continued eating, but I couldn¡¯t.

    I soon finished eating and I washed my bowl before going to join Mason, sitting a few inches away him. I felt like I should really apologise to him, but when I attempted doing that, he regarded me with a raised eyebrow, making me feel speechless in that moment.

    ¡°Why are you here?¡± He asked and I cleared my throat awkwardly, eyes darting around and averting from his intense ones.

    ¡°You¡¯re sitting awfully close to me, may I ask why?¡± He asked next, voice sounding genuinely confused which made my cheeks me up on realisation. I had sat close to him because I wanted to tender an apology to him.

    ¡°Yeah¡­ well, it¡¯s,¡± I stuttered, forcing my eyes off my thighs to focus on his face. His head was tilted sideways, and when he lowered his eyes to trail over me, I felt shaken to the core, while also noting how long and perfect his eyeshes were.

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m- waiting for our parents, yeah. I¡¯m waiting for them, they should be here anytime soon.¡± I finally breathed out, lying through my teeth and Mason regarded me silently once again before nodding his head, but I could bet my entire money right now that he knew I wasn¡¯t being honest right now.

    ¡®Why am I still sitting this close to him? I really should have even gone to my room after I finished eating.¡¯ I thought to myself in irritation.

    ¡°It¡¯s getting dark and I¡¯m starting to get worried.¡± I finally let out after a while of silence but he only shrugged before going back to concentrating on the television.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry about the other time,¡± I replied after a few moments, now that I¡¯ve mustered up some courage to apologise, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to speak on that, if I had known it was something sensitive.¡± I added.

    Mason turned around after a few seconds and this time, I was extremely shocked to see a small smile at the sides of his lips, as he leaned towards me, pulling on my cheek and pinching it softly.

    My eyes widened and so did my lips parted. It was unnerving for me to be sitting this close to him and having him smile at me while pinching my cheek, a lot of things were happening at once.

    Is this the same Mason I know?

    For one, Mason never smiled at me, never. Sure, I¡¯ve seen his perfect looking smile countless times, but they were never directed at me, they were mostly reserved for my mother.

    And two, why the hell would he pinch my cheek out of nowhere, when he would do anything to avoidinging into contact with me on a normal day.

    ¡°Why the hell did you do that?¡± I shot at him, using that opportunity to hide the way my breathing pattern had elerated, and next, I attempted to pinch him in return but he let out an amused chuckle and then he captured my ring hands In one of his, holding them in ce and making me feel like the skin which his hands was wrapped around were going up in mes.

    ¡°Because I can,¡± He finally responded on a huff, ¡°Besides, you have cute, puffy cheeks and it felt nice when I pinched it so I¡¯m not sorry.¡± He added, rendering me speechless even more.

    Mason is not only smiling at me, he¡¯s engaging in an actual conversation with me as well.

    I cleared my throat awkwardly just as he released my arms, and then I focused my gaze on the television.

    ¡°Tune in to another channel, I can barely understand a thing.¡± I groaned after a few moments has passed and Mason o my scoffed.

    ¡°Too bad I got to the remote first.¡± He answered unapologetically, suggesting I do something else if I didn¡¯t want to watch television with him.

    ¡°This is why I barely like you,¡± I said in a huff and he shrugged, making me feel more irritated, ¡°I don¡¯t know why I¡¯m even sitting here in the first ce.¡± I added.

    ¡°Go to your room then.¡± He suggested on an eyeroll and I sighed heavily as I stood to leave.

    Pacing around in my room, I tried to call my mum again but I was unable to reach her. I tried Danny¡¯s number too and it was the same thing.

    I tried so hard not to get worried but I couldn¡¯t help it, I was already sweating and I dialed their number a couple more times but it was the same response.

    ¡°Why¡¯s Mason not even worried?¡± I thought to myself before walking to my bed toy down a little. My mind wandered around and I soon started to think about different possible reasons as to why our parents weren¡¯t here yet.

    The sound of my phone ringing jolted me out of my thoughts and I picked it up to see that it was Nicole. I¡¯d initially hoped it¡¯d be my mum.

    I answered it and after a while of talking, I exined to her that Danny and my mum were runningte and I had no idea why but she onlyughed.

    ¡°It¡¯s not funny, Nicole.¡± I pointed out and she apologised before letting out a snort.

    ¡°Think about it this way, what if they¡¯re noting and they¡¯d only set you both up on purpose so you could bond throughout the break?¡± She asked and I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°There¡¯s no way in hell that they¡¯ll do that,¡± I said, condemning the idea instantly, ¡°I¡¯d rather die than stay up here that long with him.¡± I added and she snorted once again.

    We finally stopped talking about Danny and my mum and Nicole told me about how Ryan¡¯s parents were really nice to me. I teased her a little before talking about Xander.

    ¡°What of Xander? Finally got to talk to him?¡± She asked and I rolled my eyes again.

    ¡°No,¡± I answered in a sigh, ¡°It¡¯s obvious he only used me so I¡¯m trying my best to not think too hard about him.¡± I added and Nicole agreed.

    We talked for a while before I hung up and I still couldn¡¯t help but think about my parents and why they were yet to arrive.

 Chapter 39

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I opened my eyes to see that it was morning already, and I let out a long sigh as I rubbed my eyes lightly. I picked up my phone to see that I¡¯d missed my mum¡¯s calls.

    Springing out of bed, I immediately dialed her number again but just like yesterday, it wasn¡¯t connecting. I groggily made my way downstairs to see that Mason was already up.

    ¡°I have some news to share, something happened and I think you have a right to know,¡± Mason started as soon as he noticed my presence and my eyes widened in horror.

    What does he mean something happened? What is he talking about?

    ¡°W¡­ what? What happened?¡± I stammered urgently, perspiring nervously. Fear so intense gripped me, it was almost hard for me to breathe and the feeling of paranoia was so heavy as it sat in the middle of my chest.

    Did something happen to Danny and my mum?

    Did something happened to my mum??

    ¡°What happened?! Please tell me what happened, please, what happened?¡± I demanded again, and when I tried to suck in a breath, I realised that tears were falling down my cheeks.

    Mason¡¯s eyes widened which only made the fear in me get even more intense.

    ¡°What news do you want me to know about?!¡± I yelled and Mason rolled his eyes this time, making me get mmed with the urge to m him into the wall behind him.

    ¡°Stop being so dramatic.¡± He admonished me and I gasped in bewilderment and anger.

    I was feeling genuinely worried right here and he was teeming it as me being dramatic.

    The stupid bastard.

    Momentster, I realized that my hands were trembling.

    It didn¡¯t take long for me to find it hard to breathe.

    I clutched my chest as I held onto the table for support and that was when it dawned on him that I was on the verge of having a panic attack.

    Mason rushed to my side in the blink of an eye, hands gripping my arms firmly as he shook me a little, making my head spin.

    ¡°My dad called and said something happened so they won¡¯t be joining us anymore because of some few things that couldn¡¯t be moved,¡± He exined as he shook me some more, and even though my head was spinning, I gripped unto those words like they were my lifeline.

    ¡°Nothing happened to them and they¡¯re both fine.¡± He added once I began to take In breaths more easily and I heaved out a long sigh of relief, holding my chest with my still trembling hands.

    Feeling extremely embarrassed, I tried to find my feet and as soon as I did, I ran up the stairs to my room, mming the door behind me. I¡¯d just had a panic attack and had alsopletely broken down in front of Mason for nothing.

    How utterly mortifying.

    He definitely wouldn¡¯t let me hear the end of it.

    I stayed in my room for a while as I decided I wasn¡¯t going to go back outside when my phone rang. I looked to see that it was my mum and I answered it hastiky, exhaling a long sigh of relief.

    ¡°Oh my god, you¡¯re fine,¡± I said and my mother reassured me she was fine and nothing had happened.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry we ruined the ns,¡± My mother murmured, sounding apologetic and I shrugged even though she couldn¡¯t see me right now, ¡°We didn¡¯t intend to.¡± She added.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± I replied softly, even though it wasn¡¯t.

    ¡°I¡¯ming back home in the evening, I just need to pack a few things and¡­¡±

    ¡°Neither of you both will being home until after the holidays.¡± My mother informed me and my jaw dropped.

    What does she mean none of us will being home until after the holidays?

    ¡°Danny paid for everything already and you¡¯ll have to spend the intended amount of time there with Mason.¡± She exined and my eyes widened once again.

    There¡¯s no way I¡¯ll spend the entire break here with Mason especially after the stunt I pulled back there this morning.

    A stunt which he definitely wouldn¡¯t let me hear the end of.

    He saw me break down, he saw me vulnerable and that was a sight I wasn¡¯t intending for him to see throughout his entire life.

    ¡°But¡­¡± I tried to protest when I noticed I couldn¡¯t hear anything anymore.

    I tried calling my mum¡¯s attention until I realised that the call had disconnected already. I tried to call her this time but I was unable to get through to her.

    Thework was extremely weak.

    The thought of staying back on this ind all alone with Mason didn¡¯t only get me angry but it made me feel extremely nervous.

    I wasn¡¯t expecting that our parents would do something like this, even though it obviously hadn¡¯t been on purpose.

    Iid curled up in my bed, reminiscing over the emotional breakdown I had had in front of him.

    Mason being him would definitely tease me with that for the rest of the days we spend together.

    My stomach growled and I tried to ignore the fact that I was hungry as Iid back on my bed, and it didn¡¯t take long for me to fall asleep.

    I didn¡¯t wake up until nighttime.

    By then, I was feeling extremely starved and definitely couldn¡¯t ignore it any longer.

    Tossing and turning on my bed, I¡¯d already made up my mind not to go back downstairs today, especially since Mason was still down there.

    I closed my eyes to try and sleep but my growling stomach prevented that from happening.

    Giving up, I stood up from my bed and tiptoed my way downstairs.

    It was extremely quiet downstairs and the television was switched off, and only a few lights were left on. I let out a sigh of relief when I didn¡¯t see Mason anywhere.

    Making my way to the kitchen, I decided to make some noodles for myself. I was still preparing the meal when Mason waltzed into the kitchen.

    My heart instantly flew into my throat and I held my breath, waiting for him to bring up the embarrassing incident that urred this morning.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine, I¡¯ll be fine.¡± I whispered to myself repeatedly as I tried to not to sneak a nce at him.

    He walked deeper into the kitchen and I couldn¡¯t help but continue to hold my breath.

    I watched with a side nce as Mason picked out a bottle of water and closed the fridge slowly before turning to look at me.

    Okay, this is it. He¡¯ll definitely bring it up.

    He stared at me for what seemed like minutes before uncapping the water and emptying the bottle.

    He still didn¡¯t bring it up and instead, he took another drink from the fridge and slowly closed the fridge. As he existed the kitchen, our eyes locked and help for a few long seconds right before he walked out of the kitchen. I let out the breath I had been holding ever since he walked into the kitchen while wondering why he hadn¡¯t said anything about the very obvious thing.

    I finished making my noodles and ate in silence while wondering what was going on.

    Mason¡¯s long look had refused to leave my head and no matter how hard I tried to shake it off my head, I was unable to.

    Why didn¡¯t he try to tease me about my panic attack?Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Why didn¡¯t he say anything?

    Was he still mad at me for saying what I said about his mother?

    Questions wouldn¡¯t stop running through my mind and I groaned. If this is how we¡¯d be treating each other now, then how would I be able to survive two full weeks with him?

    I was used to throwing insults to him.

    I wasn¡¯t used to¡­ this.

 Chapter 40

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Sitting for a while and trying to shrug the thought of Mason out of my head, I decided I was going to watch the TV for a while.

    The footsteps of Mason descending caught my attention and I turned to see him with hisptop. He gently ced it on the dining table and I saw both our parents on the screen.

    Excited, I scampered over there to talk to them while also being careful of not making any sort of contact with Mason.

    ¡°Hey Mom, Hi Danny,¡± I squealed and they bothughed warmly. I made sure to thoroughly examine them with my eyes to confirm that they were indeed fine. I was d they called because I couldn¡¯t wait to tell them that I wanted to bee home.

    ¡°Hey Ava,¡± They both said in unison, ¡°How are you enjoying the ind?¡± Danny asked and I sighed, taking a side nce at Mason who had on a t expression before answering the question.

    ¡°It¡¯s alright but I really can¡¯t wait to be home, it¡¯s boring being here without friends and¡­¡± I trailed off and bit my tongue, feeling extremely awkward.

    ¡°You¡¯re not alone, you have your brother, right Mason?¡± My mum said and I rolled my eyes.

    If only she knew how awkward things are between Mason and I.

    ¡°Not really,¡± Mason mumbled and I gave my mum a look that said ¡®see?¡¯ ¡°But, we¡¯re going to be alright.¡± He assured them, making me roll my eyes and I saw my mum smile.

    ¡°You see, this vacation is for the both of you to bond, it¡¯s a chance to finally get over your differences and finally try to get it over with, together, since you both would be alone for two weeks.¡± My mother exined and I closed my eyes in frustration.

    Nicole¡¯s words wouldn¡¯t stop ringing at the back of my mind, she was right, our parents had done this intentionally.

    ¡°Also, we wanted to tell you that we already have multiple restaurants booked ahead for you guys and since we are not there, you both would go. Siblings go on cute dates together and that¡¯s what the both of you are going to do. You¡¯d both most definitely bond over dinner. I¡¯m sure you¡¯d enjoy it.¡± Danny stated and my eyes widened in horror

    There¡¯s no way they¡¯re setting us up.

    We spoke for a while more with me making sure they¡¯re both aware that I didn¡¯t find the stunt they pulled on us funny in any way

    As expected, theyughed over it and forwarded the addresses of the scheduled locations, and after some time, the call ended. I hissed as I tried to get away from Mason as fast as I could, but his scowl made me stop in my tracks.

    ¡°Listen here,¡± I started to speak, folding my hands and shooting him a re.

    ¡°this isn¡¯t a date or whatever they called it.¡± I continued.

    ¡°None of them called it a date, stop making up things in that tiny head of yours.¡± He corrected and my irritation increased.

    ¡°Well, don¡¯t get your hopes up because I don¡¯t want to be friends with you, we can never be friends or ever get along. I hope you get that!¡± I shot at him and heughed loudly while shaking his head.

    ¡°You¡¯re not even worth being called my friend to begin with,¡± He said and my chest tightened for some reason as he walked past me, ¡°Think you were special? I think not.¡± He added.

    I watched as he made his way back up to his room and for some reasons, I couldn¡¯t get his words out of my head. He¡¯d said I wasn¡¯t worth being called his friend in the first ce, and I didn¡¯t like how that sounded at all.

    I guess we¡¯re now back to how it used to be between us?

    Groaning, my feet padded across the room as I went to pick up my phone to call Nicole. She needed to know all of these things going on before I end up losing my mind from being in the same house alone with Mason, all by myself.

    Her phone rang and she¡¯d picked up on the fourth ring when I¡¯d almost given up on talking with her.

    ¡°Guess what Nicole?¡± I started as I sunk into the couch and groaned into the phone.

    ¡°What?¡± She asked and I knew that she would be so engrossed in what I had to say to her.

    ¡°Apparently, our parents nned the whole thing and they¡¯d sent us to the ind by ourselves, intentionally,¡± I exined and Nicoleughed light heartedly, ¡°It¡¯s not funny, they were talking about bonding and shit.¡± I added in a groan.

    ¡°Well, in their defence, if I was in their shoes I would¡¯ve been tired of you both bickering and fighting like little kids every damn time so I perfectly understand why they did this.¡± She pointed out logically but I refused to admit that.

    She¡¯s right because even I am kind of tired of it all.

    ¡°Would it be selfish of me to ask you toe join me on the Ind?¡± I asked, ¡°I mean it¡¯s really nice up here and we could have a whole lot of fun together.¡± I added and Nicoleughed once again.

    She told me she couldn¡¯t leave Ryan hanging and I totally understood since we both needed to be apart throughout the break so we would have a lot to say to each other after it.

    ¡°The idea of spending the break with Mason might not be all that bad. It could be that you¡¯re just overreacting.¡± She started and I groaned loudly.

    But, I¡¯m not even overreacting, it is definitely going to be horrible having to spend the whole weeks here.

    ¡°If you actually tried to be friends with him then you might eventually find out he¡¯s really a nice person. Stop being hard on him and yourself.¡± Nicole advised me.

    ¡°He said I wasn¡¯t worthy to be called his friend tonight.¡± I muttered loud enough for her to hear me.

    ¡°He probably doesn¡¯t mean it, we all say things we don¡¯t mean sometimes, that doesn¡¯t mean he isn¡¯t worth being given a shot.¡± She answered.

    ¡°You need to start seeing him more than that jerk that ruined your day, he ruined your project and all that, so what? Start seeing him as Mason first and watch how things change for the both of you.¡± She added.

    I couldn¡¯t believe all of this wasing from Mason, someone who hated Mason along with me as soon as she knew who he was.

    Why is she suddenly changing her mind?Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    For the first time in a long time, my heart softened towards Mason a little and after a while of talking we hung up.

    I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Mason and for the first time I wasn¡¯t thinking about murdering him, I was actually thinking of giving him a chance.

 Chapter 41

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Tired and hungry, I made my way down the stairs to make breakfast for myself and I saw that Mason was down there already. The table was also set and breakfast was ready.

    I couldn¡¯t help but do a double take.

    ¡°Why did you make breakfast for two?¡± I asked, feeling dumbfounded. I still haven¡¯t forgotten about what he said to mest night and I was still mad at that.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t we two in here?¡± He asked while rolling his eyes and wiping his hands in a small towel. He had on a fitted but loose looking ck top on a baggy pair of sweats, and his hair was all fluffed up, giving him an extremely soft look.

    I shrugged as I walked past him, into the kitchen where I pulled out a pan to make scrambled eggs for myself.

    I¡¯m not about to eat the food prepared by someone who¡¯d tantly said I wasn¡¯t worthy to be called his friend. Why did he even make breakfast for two when he doesn¡¯t care about me?

    Silently, I watched as he ate his food with a little bit of a side nce and pretending to not care about what he was doing. He soon finished eating and he came to drop his te in the dishwasher.

    He didn¡¯t leave once he was done, and I knew he was definitely going to say something. He hadn¡¯t said a thing when I didn¡¯t join him for breakfast, but I knew he had been hurt by that.

    Serves him right.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°You¡¯re always being unreasonable,¡± He stated after a while of silence, ¡°And not only that, you¡¯re always being so fucking childish too.¡± He said, voice calm and when I nced at him, I realised that a small scowl was sitting on his face.

    I turned around to fully face him, but I chose to remain silent, folding my arms and pursing my lips.

    Mason let out a sigh after about a minute, and I noticed that the scowl wasn¡¯t on his face any longer.

    ¡°I had no idea why I thought I could be nice to you for once and you¡¯ll return the gesture, but, no, you¡¯re always being fucking childish and acting like you have no sense of reasoning.¡± He continued. ¡°This is the exact reason why I¡¯d always see you as a childish person.¡±

    ¡°This would be thest fucking time I¡¯ll ever try to do anything nice for you again, mark my words.¡± He finallypleted his sentence, sounding like he meant every word, and before I could even attempt to say anything, he stormed out of the kitchen.

    I turned to look at him and I felt my conscience pricking my insides. I wasn¡¯t really that mad at him this morning since I knew damn well that I¡¯ve also told him that I don¡¯t see him as a friend material countless times, I had just wanted to act out.

    And even though I had felt too proud this morning, I liked the fact that he cooked for me as well, but I just hadn¡¯t been sure of how to show it.

    I¡¯d only ignored the breakfast  because I had thought he¡¯d ask why I was doing that so we¡¯d be able to talk things out, but it seems like he genuinely hates me now and that wasn¡¯t a part of the n.

    Wanting to follow him and apologise, I thought against it after a few moments, choosing to wait behind in the kitchen, he probably doesn¡¯t even want to see my face right now.

    By the time my food was ready, I¡¯d lost all appetite to eat so I decided to read a book and watch television until evening.

    My phone buzzed and I picked it to see that it was a reminder for one of the restaurant reservations our parents had made for us.

    I didn¡¯t feel like going, or hanging around Amazon, especially after what happened between us this morning. I wasn¡¯t looking forward to letting Mason see my face talkmore of going out with him and pretended like we were cool with each other outside.

    He definitely hates me now since I had ruined everything already. Me going out with him would only make me more ufortable.

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m stuck on an ind babysitting a moron, man I just can¡¯t wait to get out of here.¡± I overheard Mason talking to someone as I made my way to my room, and anger curled in my chest.

    Not wanting to hear anything more because I knew I was the moron he was referring to, I ran into my room as I held back my tears.

    I¡¯d wanted to bail out on going to the restaurant but I remembered my mother told me Danny had paid a huge amount of money for the reservation.

    ¡°I¡¯m not going to let that go to waste,¡± I said to myself as I opened my closet to pick out some casual clothing.

    ¡°Moron? Not worthy to be called your friend? I wonder who the hell wanted to be friends with him in the first ce. Definitely not me, that¡¯s for sure.¡± I thought to myself as I threw my clothes on.

    Once I was done, I realised just how casual the clothes were because it looked as though I was only going for a simple evening walk.

    Well, I wasn¡¯t about to dress up for a dinner I didn¡¯t want to go to, especially with someone I¡¯m mad at. I sceptically got out of my room to see Mason already dressed up.

    I couldn¡¯t help it. I did a double take.

    He cleaned up extremely nicely, being dressed in a pair of deep blue suits, and the top part of his hair was also slicked back.

    It¡¯s the first time I¡¯d be seeing him in a suit and I hated to admit it, but he looked absolutely breathtaking right now.

    Meanwhile, I had on a stupid gown that made me look like I was going to the church.

    I stood out poorlypared to Mason and I trust Mason to not let it slide.

    ¡°Why on earth are you even dressed like an old woman?¡± He demanded with an unimpressed look and even though my face coloured from embarrassment, it didn¡¯t stop me scowling at him.

    ¡°Mind your own business.¡± I shot back at him and he scoffed before stepping out of the house, not bothering to help hold the door open for me.

    Not like I wanted him to.

    He was right though.

    On getting into the restaurant, it hit me square in the eyes how extremely underdressed I was. I nced around and everyone had luxurious dresses on except me and I regretted my decision of not bothering to dress up for dinner in that moment.

    Dinner was the prefect definitely of awkward.

    It was thankfully over hourster. I was d I came even though Mason and I ignored each other throughout the dinner and barely said a word to each other.

    Once we were done, we got in the car and Mason started driving us home and I looked out the window, thinking back to the suggestive look the waitress had given Mason.

    Absolutely disgusting.

    As we drove home, I stared outside the window pointedly. I¡¯ve always loved the stars and I was happy at the fact that the stars were a little bit more brighter tonight.

    ¡°The stars are so beautiful.¡± I breathed out without thinking, with a small smile on but my smile instantly faded as soon as  I watched the window gradually roll up,

    Bastard mason has shut the window.

    ¡°Why would you do that? I was watching the stars, you son¡­¡± I was about to cuss him out when the roof of the car went down momentster, stopping my sentence midway..

    My eyes widened and my mind swelled up with so many emotions when I looked up and real that I could have a better view of the stars. I shrieked and my grin widened when I realised I could watch the stars without having to stress myself.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I muttered with a smile and he only nodded. He¡¯d said he wouldn¡¯t do anything nice for me anymore but this is the nicest thing ever.

    I looked back up to stare at the stars and I couldn¡¯t help the grin that formed on my face as I watched them. He slowed down and started driving really slow and I knew it was because he wanted me to have more than enough time to watch the stars.

    ¡°Beautiful.¡± Mason said after sometime and I immediately turned to look at him, the smile still wide on my face.

    ¡°The stars?¡± I asked and he only shrugged in response.

    He was definitely referring to the stars¡­ right?

 Chapter 42

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The drive home was silent and peaceful and for a moment I could see a hint of niceness and softness in Mason¡¯s countenance, but I didn¡¯tment on it.

    We soon got home and since I wasn¡¯t sleepy yet, I made my way to the couch and sank into it before turning towards Mason who was already on his way upstairs.

    ¡°Hey,¡± I called out hesitantly and he turned around slowly with his eyebrow arched questioningly. My eyes trailed over him slowly and once again, I marvelled over how good looking he was in the suit and how his slicked back hair made him appear impossibly hotter than he usually is.

    ¡°Do you maybe wanna see a movie with me?¡± I forced the words past my lips and for a moment I could see his eyes widenically in nothing but shock.

    To be fair, I¡¯m as shocked as he is, cause seeing a movie together wasn¡¯t a thing we¡¯ve ever done before.

    A few minutes passed and no response came forth, making me conclude that he¡¯d definitely act like the asshole that he naturally is byughing in my face before walking out of here,Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    But, he shocked me tremendously by nodding his head in agreement as he climbed down the stairs. He got to the couch I was sitting in, making me hold my breath as he sank into the spot beside me, because I expected him to go sit on a different couch and not with me.

    ¡°Yeah, but on one condition,¡± He drawled out, nting me a look and I gulped emptily, forcing my racing heart to calm down as I yfully rolled my eyes at him.

    ¡°I get to pick the movie.¡± He added and I shrugged, surrendering the remote control to him willingly.

    I sucked at picking movies anyways, so I didn¡¯t mind.

    Mason ended up picking a horror movie, and the gleam in his eyes showed that he picked that genre on purpose, making me let out a whine as I scowled at me but he onlyughed in my face, clearly having fun with the current situation.

    The movie was extremely scary and my heart was about to fall out of my chest countless times because of the intensity and the suspense.

    Unable to focus on the movie, I kept flinching and letting out squeaks. At a certain point, I got extremely scared and without thinking, I buried my face in Mason¡¯s clothes, clutching his bicep.

    As soon as I got my bearings, I expected him to shove me aside but he chuckled softly and stroked my hair lightly.

    Why¡¯s he being so nice?

    Soon, the horror movie ended and I couldn¡¯t be any happier.

    At a certain point, our parents called and asked about how our evening went.

    It was such a great experience but I ruined it on my part by dressing like an olddy.

    ¡°It was really nice, I enjoyed myself.¡± I answered with a soft smile.

    ¡°Yeah, it really was nice but someone decided to be a church girl, she wore a really long skirt and a stupid top and the icing on the cake? She had a scarf with her, who the hell takes scarves to a dinner date?¡± Masonughed and our parents joined in.

    ¡°Hey, it wasn¡¯t that bad.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, yeah it was, it was really horrible.¡± Heughed once again but this time I joined in and yfully punched his arm while he winced.

    ¡°Something seems different about you two and I like it.¡± Dannymented with a smile and I turned to look at Mason who was arching a brow at me.

    He cocked his head sideways and I blinked a couple times as I tried to process what Danny had just said when I heard a beep that indicated the end of the call.

    Mason has ended the call.

    ¡°Why would you do that?!¡± I asked with wide eyes and he shrugged.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not in the mood for the call any longer and I just want to sleep, that¡¯s why. We can talk to them tomorrow.¡± He said curtly before making his way to his room.

    What is wrong with this guy? One moment he¡¯s sweet and all nice and the next he¡¯s a jerk.

    ¡°He must be bipr.¡± I concluded with a shrug as I made my way to my room to rest for a while.

    The night was short and soon it was Morning. The rest of the morning went on boring and long, but I couldn¡¯t help but look forward to Lunch because lunch today is being held at a ssy restaurant.

    My phone beeped in reminder and I jumped out of bed as I scampered to my closet, I rummaged through my clothes before picking out a blue strapless and a little bit short gown.

    After what happened yesterday, there¡¯s no way I¡¯ll dress up like I did thest time again and risk Mason outdressing me andughing at me all through the lunch.

    ¡°You look surprisingly beautiful, I didn¡¯t know you could look this good.¡± Masonmented, eyeing me up and down in a way that made me flustered.

    Rolling my eyes, I brushed him off and we both made our way to his car and soon we were at the restaurant, which likest night, a reservation had already been scheduled for.

    For the first time, we were having lunch like adults and we didn¡¯t pass any passive aggressivements at each other and Mason was unusually chatty.

    ¡°The food here is nice and the customer service is great,¡± Mason said as he rubbed his palm together.

    I couldn¡¯t believe my ears because I never thought anything would ever be nice to Mason but he proved me wrong.

    ¡°My dad and I have been here before.¡± He continued and I was suddenly interested.

    ¡°Oh really? Tell me about it.¡± I answered curiously and he smiled.

    ¡°I don¡¯t really remember much from thest time I was here but I do remember there was a coffee shop, oh there it is.¡± He said, pointing down the street before grabbing my hand.

    We strolled towards the said coffee shop and surprisingly, the owner immediately recognized him.

    ¡°Mason, my boy! The older man breathed out warmly as he enveloped Mason in a hug. They exchanged pleasantries for a little while before the man focused on me. He arched a brow at Mason andughed once again.

    ¡°You haven¡¯t changed one bit!¡± The man hit Mason¡¯s back heartedly. ¡°Are you his girlfriend? Is she your girlfriend?¡± He asked excitedly as he turned to look at Mason.

    ¡°W¡­what¡­ No.¡± I stuttered while feeling colour flood my cheeks before finally recovering myself, ¡°He¡¯s my brother.¡± I answered.

    ¡°Yeah, we¡¯re siblings.¡± He added, supporting me.

    This is the first time I¡¯d be referring to him as my step-brother out loud and it seemed weird.

    We had coffee and a sandwich each, on the house because the shop owner was just to excited to see Mason.

    After a little while of cracking jokes and catching up, we soon started to leave but the outdoors was really nice and I wanted to see more of the ind, and so I began to wander into the woods.

    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t go wandering off. We need to get back home.¡± Mason warned but I didn¡¯t listen to him. All he ever does is try to ruin my chance of having fun.

    I heard his footsteps behind me and I smiled when I realized he was following me, ¡°See, it¡¯s not so bad after all.¡± I said, folding my arms.

    Ignoring me, we continued walking, taking cuts and walking straight ahead till it was almost getting dark, and then when he suggested we get back home, I agreed.

    Turning back around, I realised I couldn¡¯t remember the way back out of the woods anymore. Turning several times, I tried to figure it out but I couldn¡¯t.

    ¡°Uh, Mason,¡± I called as I turned to look at him and by the t look on his face, I knew he didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell him that we were already lost.

    Shoving me aside, he walked ahead of me before turning back and now, his eyes were filled with anger.

    He was angry.

    ¡°This is what I was talking about when I said we shouldn¡¯t get this far but you never listen. Now we¡¯re lost, thanks to you!¡± He shouted.

    ¡°We¡¯re not so lost.¡± I answered, shoving him aside and walking straight ahead even though I knew we were definitely lost.

    ¡°Oh really! Look around! You never fucking listen to anyone but do whatever the fuck you wanna do!¡± He yelled back at me.

    ¡°Oh please, I¡¯ll get us out of here and then you can go fuck yourself. I shot back at him.

    Angrily, I walked away but I haven¡¯t gone really far when my leg got stuck beneath a twig, making me fall over.

    ¡°Oww.¡±

 Chapter 43

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The sound of Mason¡¯sughter wasn¡¯t as annoying as it usually was, I lifted my gaze to look at him and I was absolutely dazed.

    His face glowed so beautifully, making him appear almost ethereal right now. I stared at him for what seemed like hours till his voice jolted me out of my thoughts.

    ¡°C¡¯mon, up you go.¡± He murmured, tilting his head before snorting out anotherugh. I tried to stand after a few minutes, but my leg was really stuck.

    ¡°I can¡¯t, I¡¯m stuck.¡± I pointed out and he rolled his eyes before holding his hand out. I bit on my lower lip and regard his outstretched hand withou reaching for it.

    ¡°Are you gonna ept it or not? It¡¯s not gonna bite.¡± He drawled out, making color fill up my cheeks as I red up at him and jammed my hand in hisrger one.

    He arched an eyebrow at me as he jerked me upwards so fast that I felt my head spin a little. I¡¯d have collided into his chest if I hadn¡¯t held my second hand out, and that supposed second hand is currently pressing into his hatdy chest.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    With a mortified sound, I tugged my hand to myself while feeling my cheeks heat up some more.

    ¡°Can you walk?¡± He asked after clearing his throat a little, turning me nce down at my foot to check if I had any bruises.

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t let you carry me even if I couldn¡¯t walk.¡± I spat and he bursted outughing once again.

    ¡°Now, what made you think I ever want to carry you? I wouldn¡¯t wanna waste my strength on a piece of shit, now would I?¡± He demanded and I felt my heart hardened.

    ¡°Hey!¡± I snapped and the glint in his eyes while he snorted was priceless.

    ¡°I mean, I could just drag you like a sack of potatoes till we¡¯re home instead. You have a problem with me carrying you now butst night, you had no problem with almost crawling into myp while the horror movie was showing.¡± He reminded me with a raised eyebrow.

    The irritation I had already began to feel didn¡¯t take long to melt into embarrassment and I folded my hands as I shrugged. ¡°You know I¡¯d never do that when I¡¯m myself. That was the horror movie¡¯s fault. You should me yourself for picking that genre.¡±

    He remained quiet but after a few minutes of just staring at me, he let out a snort.

    Feeling irritated, I began walking away but I could clearly hear Mason¡¯s manicughter behind me.

    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t run off again only to get lost and worse, get your leg stuck in somewhere again.¡± He called out amidstughter and I raised my middle finger up at him without stopping.

    He easily caught up with me and after a while of walking around, we finally got back to the right track home, thanks to Mason.

    He looked tired and out of breath but he didn¡¯tin. He had to still drive home after everything and deep down, I knew I couldn¡¯t deny that I felt bad. I knew I should apologise to him.

    He had only been trying to have fun and had I ruined it by getting us lost. I couldn¡¯t help but feel awkward as I stole nces at him during the ride home, but his eyes were fixated on the road.

    We got home and I made my way to the kitchen. If I couldn¡¯t apologise to him verbally, then I could do that indirectly by making dinner for him.

    Food is the way to a man¡¯s heart, after all.

    I finished cooking and had the table set for the both of us while I patiently waited for him toe back downstairs so we could eat together.

    It got reallyte and it was safe to conclude that he was never going toe downstairs again that night, and that realization was enough to make me lose my appetite. Fuming, I made my way to my room.

    Tossing and turning on the bed, I found it hard to fall asleep and I couldn¡¯t help but get angry at him for noting down for dinner.

    Why did I care if he came downstairs and ate my food or not?

    It¡¯s not like I even called him down. Well, I had assumed he¡¯d automaticallye down after some time.

    Finally putting my headphones on and listening to some calming music, I closed my eyes and the memories of what happened today started running through my mind.

    I couldn¡¯t help but picture his face when he wasughing and the way he smiled when he teased me. Shaking my head, I tried to get the thought of Mason out of my head since I was still mad at him.

    Closing my eyes, I tried to catch some sleep and soon, I drifted off.

    I opened my eyes to the brightness of the sun in my room, groaning, I pulled the curtains close before making my way down the stairs and there he was.

    He was wearing grey pants and a white T-shirt, I rolled my eyes as I tried to walk past him but he decided to talk.

    ¡°Good morning, how are you and how is your leg?¡± He asked and I could tell that he was only being caring but I was still mad at him.

    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business, leave me alone!¡± I shot at him and telling from the shock on his face, he was clearly taken aback by my outburst.

    Not saying another word, he left quietly for his room and again I was left wallowing in regret.

    I shouldn¡¯t have been that hard on him.

    I didn¡¯t see him for the rest of the morning and afternoon until the evening when he came to inform me about cancelling the reservation we had tonight.

    ¡°Our parents don¡¯t have to know that we skipped it and we also don¡¯t have to go since each other¡¯s faces are thest thing we both want to see, from the look of things.¡± He added lightly and I shrugged.

    He turned to leave and even though I didn¡¯t want to see or talk to him, I had no idea why I felt bad about the fact that he cancelled tonight¡¯s dinner, knowing damn well that it¡¯s definitely because of me.

    Sitting alone and watching TV that evening, I felt lonely for the first time since we arrived here and even though I¡¯d tried to shrug off the feeling, I knew I missed his presence.

    Clutching the pillow hard and pulling it close to my chest, I blinked my eyes open at once on realising that which I¡¯m currently doing.

    When did I start feeling this way towards¡­ Mason?

    Picking up my phone, I hurriedly called Nicole and exined what¡¯s going on with me to her.

    ¡°Please, Nicole. Tell me I¡¯m not losing my mind over him and I¡¯m just overreacting.¡± I said after exining everything to Nicole from yesterday¡¯s encounter till this evening.

    Nicole was silent for a while before she spoke.

    ¡°You know what I suggest?¡± She hummed, jolting me out of my thoughts.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°That you stop acting like a child and just fucking go apologize!¡± She yelled and I couldn¡¯t believe she¡¯d said that.

    She wants me to¡­ apologising?

    To Mason of all people?

    No fucking way.

    Without responding, I disconnected the call.

    But as minutes morphed into hours, I thought about what she suggested, over and over again.

 Chapter 44

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Getting up as early as I could, I¡¯d decided I was going to make a really delicious breakfast for the both of us and that way I¡¯d be able to apologise to Mason.

    After spending hours trying to get the varieties of food ready, I had the table set and the smile that escaped my lips when Mason got down from the stairs was noticeable.

    ¡°Good Morning,¡± I said with a smile that faded when he walked past me like he didn¡¯t see me. I stood frozen for the first few seconds before finally shaking myself out of the daze I got caught in.

    ¡°I made breakfast.¡± I announced but he pointedly ignored me, looking around the cupboards and picking out a pan, along with the required ingredients to prepare pancakes.

    I felt my cheeks burn and my blood boiled and I clenched my fist in anger and humiliation. I was fuming and I made sure that he noticed it.

    ¡°What is wrong with you?¡± I finally brought myself to demand but he only raised an eyebrow and shrugged, ¡°I decided to be nice enough to make breakfast for the both of us but like the jerk that you are, you chose to ignore me!¡± I added in a yell as I stomped my feet on the ground.

    Mason pulled out an AirPod from his ear which I didn¡¯t notice until right now and then he tilted his head. I watched as he wrapped his arms against his chest before leaning into the counter, and then she shrugged, making me feel even angrier..

    ¡°Now you know how I felt that day I made breakfast for two but you chose to disregard my effort before you had proceeded to make your own breakfast.¡± He shot back at me and I got taken aback before averting my gaze in embarrassment.

    Now that he mentioned it, perhaps I shouldn¡¯t have acted the way I did that day.

    I couldn¡¯t imagine how he must¡¯ve felt that day and now that I¡¯m currently experiencing the same thing, I couldn¡¯t help but feel bad.

    ¡°I hope you enjoy feeling that same way.¡± He added with a snort as he put his AirPod back in and returned to his breakfast preparation, making me feel dismissed.

    Angrily, my feet padded to my room as I picked up my phone to dial Nicole, she was the one who asked me to apologise to him and now my apology hase back to bite me in my ass.

    ¡°Gosh, I hate him!¡± I yelled into the phone and Nicole chuckled.

    ¡°Calm down now and stop being bitchy, you started it first, remember? Karma¡¯s a bitch.¡± She drawled and I rolled my eyes.

    Just when I thought she was going to have my back and agree with me that Mason was being unreasonable, she chose to pick Mason¡¯s back once again.

    I sunk into the bed as I thought of multiple ways to kill Mason without being suspected.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    Why would he want to get back at me? Why on earth would a grown man like him think of getting his revenge? I¡¯d thought that was done and in the past. Heck, I hadpletely forgotten about that.

    Mason is only being unreasonable and petty. On top of that, he¡¯s just being ridiculously, fucking annoying.

    ~~~

    The footsteps of Mason climbing down the stairs jolted me out of my thoughts and I rolled my eyes and red at him before turning back to the television I hadn¡¯t even been concentrating on.

    ¡°I¡¯m going out¡­¡± He breathed out into the silence after clearing his throat and I scoffed.

    ¡°No one asked, I didn¡¯t ask, did I?¡± I snapped and he sighed before walking out of the house, shutting the door behind him. I watched him leave and then I turned back to continue the show I was barely watching.

    I wouldn¡¯t stop staring at the wall clock and my phone, it¡¯s been six hours and Mason still isn¡¯t back from wherever he¡¯d gone to. I picked up my phone to go outside, strolling around a little in order to search for him but I had no idea where he might be, so it was pretty pointless.

    I worriedly returned to the house and began to pace around the sitting room. I knew this was the perfect time to pray and desperately wish that he neveres back home but I couldn¡¯t.

    I hated him and wished he¡¯d die countless times but I also didn¡¯t want him dead. A part of me wanted him back home just so we could continue arguing like two stupid kids.

    The sound of the lightning that struck momentster, made me jump and I dived unto one of the couches in the sitting room, feeling nervousness start to build up in my system. Minutester, It began to rain and it seemed as though it was going to be a really big storm.

    I desperately dialled Mason for the hundredth time tonight in the hopes of reaching him, just so I¡¯d confirm that he¡¯s safe and alright, but all efforts to get through to him proved futile.

    The rain got impossibly heavier and I curled into myself on the couch with my heart in my throat while feeling like I¡¯d faint from too many tremors.

    Momentster, my vision began to get blurry.

    My chest tightened and I suddenly started finding it hard to breathe. Clutching my shirt and holding on the couch like my life depended on it for support, I tried to prevent the attack from overtaking me, but as a sob spilled past my mouth, it became like a lost us.

    When the lightning struck again, it felt like thatpletely cracked the dam of tears in me..

    Where is he? What if something bad had happened to him on the road?

    I couldn¡¯t help the questions that ran through my mind as I started perspiring, everything in the room seemed to be disorganised and closing in on me at once, and the pain in my chest only intensified as I slowly slid off the couch to the ground.

    It felt like agester before I heard it.

    ¡°Ava! Ava!¡± Mason¡¯s voice was impossibly loud as he called out my name, a note of desperation in his voice. With every night in me, I used in blinking my eyes open.

    Everything was hazy at first, and then I felt something moving through my hair, brushing over my cheeks and shaking me lightly when my eyes fluttered close.

    ¡°Where am I?¡± I muttered as I blinked my eyes open once again, taking in Mason¡¯s disheveled appearance, flinching a little when a drop of water hit my cheek when hebed his fingers through his hair, making me whisper out an apology as he pulled away from me a little.

    ¡°You were¨C fuck, you¡¯re okay. Oh my god.¡± He breathed out, looking rattled and then he pulled me in a hug.

    I felt numb as I pulled away from the hug. A lump is currently lodged in my throat and I closed my eyes to hold back the tears that threatened to set themselves free in that moment.

    ¡°Where were you?!¡± I finally whispered, watching as something akin to shock cross Mason¡¯s face.

    ¡°I called multiple times but you weren¡¯t picking up and then, and then the rain started, and¡­.¡± I trailed off when a wayward sob bubbled in my throat. I was still attempting to speak when Mason suddenly cupped my face in his palm and urged me to hush.

    ¡°I tried to tell you where I was going to but you were too mad at me to even listen to me and now I get back home to see you having a breakdown, a panic attack.¡± He eximed softly, and this time, the fear was evident in his voice.

    He was right, I¡¯d pretended not to care about him when he was about to leave the house.

    But, that didn¡¯t mean I wanted him to die.

    He could have texted me when it began to rain.

    I sniffed back the rest of my tears, and then without saying another word, I pushed off the spot on the ground and made my way to my bedroom.

    I stumbled at first, and Mason caught me, refusing to let go of me, but because I was very determined and was hellbent on not speaking to him, he ended up giving in.

    As I closed my bedroom¡¯s door, I wondered what would have been of me if he hadn¡¯t arrived on time.

    As I heaved out a long sigh, I couldn¡¯t help but ask myself why I cared this much about someone I imed to hate.

    Walking to the bed, I wrapped myself up with the nket to prevent me from catching a cold since I didn¡¯t want to go back down there.

    Minutester, knocks echoed through the door, which I pointedly ignored.

    ¡°Ava, c¡¯mon.¡± Mason called out, knocking after a few more minutes.

    He came by one more time, and I knew it was to check on me because he had been clearly worried, but I pointedly ignored him.

    His face is thest thing I want to see right now.

 Chapter 45

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The sound of my bedside rm jolted me out of my sleep. I found it hard to fall asleepst night at first, before eventually falling into a dreamless one.

    Getting ready for the day, I had my bath and put onfortable clothing before walking down the stairs. The pleasant aroma that filled the air told me Mason had already prepared breakfast.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    On climbing down the stairs, I found him setting the table and with a small smile, eyes weing me to the dining table without actually talking.

    I hesitated for a moment before sinking into a seat.

    Eating our food in silence, I wanted to say something at different intervals but I was too embarrassed to say a thing, and so we ate without saying anything to each other.

    None of us spoke about the panic attack I had yesterday and I was really grateful that he refrained from speaking about it, nor did he try to taunt me with it or say anything stupid.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Mason¡¯s voice jerked me out of my thoughts and I turned to look at him, blinked slowly. He was standing by the table, clearing it slowly.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± I asked before his question fully hit home. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine.¡± I answered almost immediately and he nodded before going into the kitchen.

    He came back with a cup of hot chamomile tea and I stared at him nkly for a while, I had no idea how he knew I took chamomile tea when I¡¯m stressed.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I whispered when I took the cup from him, biting my bottom lip when our fingers grazed each other¡¯s fingers for a moment. I took a sip from the tea and couldn¡¯t help but stare at him, wondering why he¡¯s being so nice with me today.

    Must¡¯ve probably been the panic attack I had, I noticed he had looked extremely worried and perhaps scared as well but he did a good job at hiding it.

    My phone buzzed and I picked it up to see my mum¡¯s name on the screen. Answering the call, I was excited to hear from my mum.

    ¡°Hey baby girl? How are you doing? Are you okay?¡± She asked and I nodded like she was going to see me, I¡¯d forgotten it was an audio call.

    ¡°I¡¯m good, mom, thank you,¡± I answered, ¡°How are you?¡± I asked with a smile.

    ¡°I¡¯m good honey, Mason calledst night, he was really worried and scared and I thought to check on you.¡± My mum exined and a small smile crept over my face.

    He was worried about me to an extent he had to call my mum. My mum already automatically knew why I got scared since she probably heard from Mason that it rainedst night.

    ¡°Should Ie to you? I¡¯ll be able to take care of¡­¡±

    ¡°No!¡± I answered hastily and even I was taken aback by my swift answer, ¡°I mean, no mom, I¡¯m not a kid. I¡¯ll be fine.¡± I added in reassurance and after talking for a while, she hung up.

    I didn¡¯t want her here because that might ruin my chance with Mason, he¡¯s not as bad as I really thought he was and now I want to give him a chance.

    He deserves at least a second chance and to be given the benefit of doubt. I¡¯m positive that he¡¯ll warm up to me and until then, I¡¯m going to put up with anything thates up next.

    We had to cancel tonight¡¯s dinner because not only was I drained, I didn¡¯t want to step out of the house. I was happy when Mason agreed to canceling with me.

    He¡¯d prepared dinner for us and we had our food in silence, our eyes would asionally meet and we¡¯d look away swiftly.

    I could tell that he had something he wanted to say but since we¡¯ve both taken a vow of silence, neither of us wanted to be the first to speak.

    Walking to my room slowly, I copsed on the bed and wrapped myself up with the sheet. Rain soon began to fall and my worst fear came crippling back to me.

    Why¡¯d the rain choose tonight as the perfect time to fall?

    I¡¯m afraid of thunderstorms and sleeping alone in my room would only kill me as I hear the thunder repeated ps, and so I walked down the stairs with my nket andid on the couch.

    It wasn¡¯t long before I heard footsteps. It was Mason,ing down to do God knows what. I tried to ignore his presence but he came to stand right in front of me.

    ¡°If you¡¯re here to insult me then you might as well get on with it.¡± I said in a tired sigh, burrowing into the nket even more.

    He ignored me and I pursed my lips as I watched him walk to the kitchen. A few minutester, he came back with a cup of chamomile tea for me, flooring me tremendously.

    Hesitantly, I took it from him and sipped on it slowly. I watched him take his seat on another couch, a can of drink in his hand while being focused on his phone.

    After a little while, I closed my eyes but I couldn¡¯t help but steal nces at him. It¡¯s been thirty minutes and he was still out here with me.

    ¡°Why are you still here?¡± I asked, unable to hold myself back as I wondered why he was still sitting with me when he hates me.

    ¡°I¡¯m still here because of your inability to fall asleep in thunderstorms, duh.¡± He answered without moving his eyes from his phone and I could feel tiny flutters in my stomach.

    I kept staring at him until he nced up at me. My breath caught in my throat a little and I swallowed emptily, right before I slid my eyes close.

    I had no idea when I fell asleep.

    ~~~

    ¡°How long have I been asleep?¡± I asked as I stiffened a yawn, groggily sitting up. Mason snickered a little as he raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°Let¡¯s see, sincest night,¡± He answered, reaching down to hand me a cup of tea that I eagerly epted this time.

    Mason is being unusually nice, strangely. Last night, he had made me blush, prompting butterflies to dance around in my stomach for some unknown reason.

    ¡°Hey!¡± He called, snapping his fingers in front of me and I blinked up at him, ¡°What the hell were you thinking? I just asked what you wanted for breakfast.¡± He added.

    I had no idea he was talking to me. Smiling, I told him I was going to make do with pancakes and I watched as he made his way to the kitchen.

    No matter how hard I tried, I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about him, and about how it seems like he¡¯s hell bent on taking care of me, and a shy smile tugged at the sides of my lips.

 Chapter 46

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I spent the whole day thinking about Mason and was unable to stop myself from thinking about him. The day went by quicker than I expected it to and we both walked to our respective rooms.

    I woke up early and had thought I was going to be earlier than Mason but I got downstairs to see him up already, he was on call with our parents.

    ¡°Oh, she¡¯s here.¡± He announced with a smile in his voice and I walked to theptop screen to see Danny and my mum.

    I had no idea what they¡¯d talked about for them to be grinning from ear to ear but I joined in and the call went on for a while before they had to go.

    We both sat on the couch to watch a movie and for the first time, we didn¡¯t argue on what to watch. Instead, we enjoyed watching what the other chose.

    After the movie, we got ourselves engaged in a conversation and I found myself talking more than I usually do when my phone rang, making me stop talking.

    I took a peak to see that it was Nicole and with a smile, I excused myself to answer the call. I ran into my room and picked the call almost immediately I got in.

    The excitement in my voice can¡¯t be missed as I exined it all to Nicole, I¡¯d told her that Mason wasn¡¯t as bad as I initially thought he was and he¡¯s sweet and gentle instead.

    ¡°I told you you were just overreacting, I¡¯m d you chose to get to know him before killing him off,¡± she teased amidstughter and I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°Now that you don¡¯t hate him as much as before, tell me, do you find him cute and extremely hot now?¡± She asked and I almost choked on my spit.

    ¡°Nicole!¡± I warned, stomping my feet on the floor even though I had no idea why I¡¯d just done that.

    ¡°What? Just fucking tell me, I need to know what you think.¡± She added.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m going to be very honest with you my dear best friend, I don¡¯t find him to be all that cute.¡± I answered and I could imagine Nicole rolling her eyes.

    We spoke some more and I told her about how I saw Mason smile really brightly, the memory was still vivid in my head, he was smiling andughing these past weeks and it was the most beautiful sight.

    ¡°I never catch him smiling but I¡¯m guessing it has to do with his mother leaving and all that.¡± I exined and Nicole told me shepletely understood why he was like that. We finished talking and I decided that I was going to take a nap since that was all I basically did.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    The knock on my door and Mason¡¯s voice that followed made me groan beneath my breath. He hade to remind me about our usual dinner and I started getting ready once he was gone.

    I picked out a red skirt and a cute top, I wasn¡¯t in the mood to dress up so my aesthetics would be casual tonight. Mason didn¡¯t say anything once I emerged, but he got the car door for me, and once we were settled in, he drove us to the scheduled restaurant at once.

    ¡°I¡¯ll get the pork chops with a side of mashed potatoes and a ss of wine.¡± I watched Mason ce his order effortlessly while I was still having an internal battle on what to get.

    ¡°How about you, ma¡¯am?¡± The waiter asked me and I still had no idea.

    ¡°I¡¯ll have the same thing please,¡± I answered as I ced the menu down in frustration, ¡°how did you do that? I had no idea what to get!¡± I huffed out once the waiter left and Mason chuckled softly.

    ¡°It¡¯s understandable, I once had this panic attack the first time I was going to order my food myself, trust me, it was ugly.¡± He said amidstughter.

    ¡°No way!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m serious and the waitress wasn¡¯t helping, the intense amount of pressure on me made me almost copse.¡± Heughed.

    We kept talking for a while till the waiter brought out our food and dinner wasn¡¯t as boring as it usually was, we talked over it and even sat for a while when we were done.

    I couldn¡¯t help but notice how his eyes lit up whenever he talked about things he loved and I didn¡¯t want it to stop.

    ¡°You like Pan! c at the disco? Isn¡¯t their music always too fucking loud?¡± I asked as Iughed and his mouth dropped open.

    ¡°The fucking disrespect! How dare you?!¡± Mason said as he hit the table in fake anger and we both couldn¡¯t hold in ourugh.

    We looked around to see that we were disturbing the peace of the restaurant and almost everyone was staring at us. Picking up our Ice-cream, we ran out of there and made our way to Mason¡¯s car.

    Deciding to take ate night road trip, Mason dropped the roof of the car down and I gasped at how much the stars in the sky were.

    They were even more than thest time I stared at it, unable to hold in my excitement, I turned to look at Mason whose eyes were still fixed on the road.

    ¡°Is there really anything as beautiful as the stars?¡± I asked and he turned to look at me for a moment, ¡°they¡¯re so beautiful and I can¡¯t get enough of them, I love watching them.¡± I exined to Mason.

    I was unable to contain my excitement and he saw that and let out a slight smile as he listened to me ramble on about the stars and their beauty.

    ¡°Beautiful.¡± He said and I smiled.

    ¡°Of course they¡¯re beautiful. The stars are always sparkling so yes, they¡¯re really beautiful.¡± I answered amidstughter and he shook his head.

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t talking about the stars,¡± he said softly and I raised an eyebrow, ¡°I was talking about you, you¡¯re beautiful.¡± He added and my heart twirled.

    The butterflies and goosebumps I felt were unexinable as I was unable to say another word and we just drove home in silence.

 Chapter 47

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The night passed with Mason and I talking about things before we finally decided to go to our respective rooms.

    I had the best time with him and I also looked forward to spending more time with him.

    The day went by really quickly and we both decided to go out and get some snacks for ourselves in the afternoon.

    Grabbing a sweater, Mason and I walked to a small, traditional restaurant for burgers and fries. Everyone there was nice and we¡¯re both used to the misconceptions of us dating.

    Laughing, Mason and I spoke and he told me a little bit about his childhood but I noticed he never mentioned his mother. I¡¯d wanted to ask when I remembered what Danny told me.

    I already knew what happened with his mum and asking him more questions might only make him ufortable and that¡¯s thest thing I wanted to happen to him.

    Things between us have been going on smoothly. Shutting my mouth, I decided to keep mute about his mother and concluded he was going to talk about it whenever he¡¯sfortable.

    Finishing our junk food, we both took a walk back home in silence and it was the mostfortable silence Mason and I have ever had.

    ¡°The night you had a panic attack,¡± Mason started when we got home and I¡¯d wanted to conclude that he was about to insult me but I shook the thought off.

    ¡°Are your panic attacks rted to your fear of thunderstorms?¡± He asked and his tone told me all I needed to know about his intention.

    He only wanted to know and he didn¡¯t mean any harm. After a while of silence I realized I haven¡¯t answered his question and I turned to see his eyes on me.

    I nodded affirmatively and his eyes darted back to the television as he focused on the movie we were both watching without saying another word.

    I¡¯d thought he was going to ask more questions and talk about that same night he came back homete because that was when I had the attack but he didn¡¯t and I couldn¡¯t be more grateful.

    After a while, The movie was over and with a sigh and a smile, Mason stood to go to the kitchen while I picked up my phone to scroll through it.

    The sweet scent that filled the air made me know he was cooking and it wasn¡¯t long before he came out to set the table.

    ¡°Dinner is ready.¡± He announced and I smiled as I stood to get to the dining table.

    Eating silently, I couldn¡¯t help but steal nces at him, I had an apology at the tip of my tongue but it was finding it difficult to just roll off my tongue.

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­¡± I muttered and hoped he¡¯d hear me but he didn¡¯t, I watched as he ate heartily without saying anything.

    How am I going to apologize to him for all the days he¡¯d tried to be nice and I just discredited him?

    I felt bad when I remembered all of his nice gestures and instead of acknowledging it, I¡¯d just acted like it didn¡¯t matter when it really did and would always matter.

    Apologizing isn¡¯t my thing, I¡¯m not used to apologizing for something since I was never really wrong, especially Mason. Apologizing to Mason is something I didn¡¯t seeing even in years toe.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    Not wanting to say another word andplicate things, I thought to keep my mouth shut and enjoy dinner, we soon finished eating and I stood to get the dishes.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll do the dishes.¡± I said with a smile, if I can¡¯t apologize the least I can do is try to be nice to him at all cost.

    ¡°I¡¯ll help out.¡± He answered with a smile that made my heart flutter.

    He¡¯s been really nice to me and part of me wants to be happy that Mason is now a changed man but part of me couldn¡¯t help but be worried.

    What if he¡¯s only being nice to me because he has something bad nned for me?

    We did the dishes in silence and it seems as though being silent is the only thing we did today since we barely said a word to each other.

    After the dishes, we both went to our respective rooms and I was getting ready to go to bed when my phone rang and I picked it up to see that it was my mum.

    Laying on the bed, I picked up the call and I was excited to hear my mum¡¯s voice, I missed her so much but I also didn¡¯t want her here since Mason and I are off to a great start.

    ¡°How are you doing, baby girl?¡± She asked and I smiled.

    ¡°I¡¯m better now, mum. Thank you.¡± I answered and I could hear my mum heave out a sigh of relief.

    ¡°I also wanted to ask, how has Mason been acting these past days? Are you both getting along well?¡± Sheughed and all of the memories I had with Mason came ying back in my head.

    ¡°He hasn¡¯t been pestering me for a while now and you know what mom, he¡¯s being so nice to me and we barely fight anymore. I really think there¡¯s a part of him that I haven¡¯t gotten to know yet.¡± I exined earnestly and I just knew that my mum would be happy.

    ¡°See? I knew he¡¯s nice and I told you, sooner orter you both would warm up to each other and get along so well that you¡¯ll be inseparable.¡± She answered and Iughed.

    For the first time in a long time, a statement like that didn¡¯t make me mad or make me contemte on killing Mason.

    ¡°How¡¯s Danny?¡± I asked, changing the subject and I was grateful when my mum also digressed from talking about him.

    ¡°He has a cold and that¡¯s why he isn¡¯t on the call right now, he misses you too.¡± She exined and I smiled as I told her to say Hi to him on my behalf when he gets up.

    We spoke for a while and after telling her I needed to sleep she hung up and I smiled as I clutched my nket.

    Closing my eyes and smiling, I thought Mason¡¯s wide smile before falling asleep.

 Chapter 48

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I couldn¡¯t ignore the melodious sound of the guitar ying and when I went to the balcony to check, there he was.

    Mason was the one ying the guitar and the way he held it was as though it was a really special guitar, his fingers trailing off the strings made my jaw drop in awe.

    Putting one foot in front of the other, I wanted to go near him but I knew how Mason could be. Going near him might just set him off and he¡¯ll probably get mad at me for ruining his music.

    Turning, I tried to walk away when my dress got stuck on the door knob and I tripped, causing Mason to stop ying and making him turn to me.

    Why do clothes and door knobs usually pick out the wrong time to flirt with each other?

    I turned to look at Mason and I¡¯d expected him to get mad at me and fume in rage about how I¡¯d ruined his session but the glint in his eyes was one no one could ignore.

    Heughed at me instead and although I was embarrassed, hearing himugh made me burst out inughter.

    Tugging me up at once in a way that made my head spin, Mason turned me around to check if I had any bruises and was relieved when he noticed I had none, meanwhile my cheeks burned furiously.

    ¡°Come and sit with me.¡± He said when I turned to leave but his hands were still wrapped around my arm.

    Taking a nce at his hand and then at him, his lips curled up in a smile and I couldn¡¯t help but walk out to the balcony with him.

    He picked up his guitar and I waspletely enchanted at how he yed, he ys so nicely and has such melodious harmonies.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I got goosebumps from watching him y and I couldn¡¯t help but notice how extremely hot he is and soon the music stopped.

    ¡°You¡¯re really talented,¡± I started and he snorted lightly, ¡°who could have known?¡± I added and burst outughing too.

    I¡¯d really thought he was just one of the guys that carried their guitars for fun and had absolutely no idea how to y it but Mason is different, he knew what he was doing.

    ¡°Well, I learnt in my first year of college and now, I can¡¯t do without it.¡± Heughed as he told me about his experience with his guitar.

    The way his eyes glinted whenever he was talking about something he genuinely loves made the butterflies in my stomach increase.

    ¡°How about you?¡± He asked and it took me a while before I realized what he was talking about.

    ¡°Me? I have no idea how to y any musical instrument.¡± I answered and heughed again.

    ¡°I know, I was just asking if there¡¯s any you¡¯d love to learn.¡± He added and I nodded in realization.

    ¡°Yeah, I loved the violin and I¡¯d really tried ying it but things didn¡¯t turn out as nned, it is what it is.¡± I answered amidstughter.

    ¡°Anyone can y the guitar if they actually really want to and I can teach you how to y whenever you¡¯re free.¡± He said as he looked at me as if he was searching for some sort of answer.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I answered before suggesting that we yed a game and to my surprise, Mason agreed to my idea but said we were going to do it tomorrow since it waste already and I agreed as both of us retired to bed.

    Morning soon came and I was grateful for how fast it was. I got ready and went downstairs to see Mason already up.

    He probably never sleeps.

    We talked for a while and also yed our first game and it was more fun than I¡¯d imagined it to be, especially with Mason.

    ¡°Hey! I almost forgot, how¡¯s your yboy?¡± He asked and I had no idea who or what he was talking about.

    ¡°My yboy?¡± I asked and he nodded affirmatively before realizing that I had no idea what he was talking about.

    ¡°I meant the guy you were tutoring?¡± He added and I oohed when I realized he was talking about Xander.

    I exined to him about how he¡¯s been ignoring me and how he¡¯d stoppeding to ss too.

    ¡°I tried calling him multiple times but I always get sent to voicemail.¡± I shrugged and the look Mason had on got me confused.

    ¡°He must¡¯ve found out how uncool you were and the poor dude ran for his life.¡± Heughed and somehow, what he¡¯d said hit a spot.

    ¡°Maybe, just maybe I¡¯m uncool.¡± I said in a low tone and no matter how I tried to hide how offended I was by his statement, It still managed to be obvious.

    ¡°That was a joke, I don¡¯t find you uncool.¡± Mason said with a smile and that gave me some sort of assurance. He asked about what might¡¯ve transpired between Xander and I for him to ignore me.

    ¡°We kissed and since then, I don¡¯t know.¡± I answered in embarrassment and I could feel my cheek burn but Mason didn¡¯t even find it funny like I had anticipated.

    ¡°What?!¡± He let out irritatedly and I almost got a heart attack, ¡°That dude is a fucking dick! If only I heard this when I still saw him, I would¡¯ve punched his teeth out!¡± He added with a scowl on his face.

    His reaction to what I exined to him was both funny and adorable.

    Will he really do that for me?

    ¡°You¡¯re just making another joke.¡± I said amidstughter but Mason stopped to look at me.

    ¡°I¡¯m dead serious and I don¡¯t give a rat ass about who he probably thinks he is.¡± He answered and my heart leaped.

    I felt the butterflies in my stomach and my cheeks flushed. I didn¡¯t want to continue talking about it so I changed the subject.

    ¡°So, what are the other fun things you do?¡± I asked and Mason started telling me about the things he¡¯d done.

    We talked more and I waspletely enraptured by him, I never would¡¯ve thought Mason could make me feel this way.

 Chapter 49

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We finished talking and we both went to our room but I wanted to sleep when the rain started and it came with a huge thunderstorm.

    I hate rain.

    Leaving my bed, I wrapped my nket around my body as I got out of bed and walked down to the sitting room and even though staying there alone would be scary, I couldn¡¯t sleep in my own room alone.

    Iid on the couch when I heard footsteps and I looked to see Mason making his way down the stairs but he never lifted his gaze from his phone.

    A small smile escaped my lips as Iid down morefortably, I¡¯m not alone anymore and I¡¯d be able to sleep well now.

    Even though I already knew he came downstairs because of me, he didn¡¯t say a word or vocally announce his presence.

    His eyes fixated on his phone and he was smiling at something on the phone, my stomach churned and I had no idea why I felt that way.

    ¡°Ava?¡± Mason called as he tapped me lightly and I opened my eyes to see him in front of me, I was already dozing off and ready to sleep.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we just go up to my room and sleep there? You¡¯ll be morefortable.¡± He suggested and my eyes widened in shock.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    I didn¡¯t think Mason would ever suggest something like that, especially since we¡¯re both just getting to feelfortable around each other.

    ¡°What? Are you crazy?¡± I asked in shock and I could tell that Mason was taken aback by my outburst.

    ¡°It¡¯s just for the night and it¡¯s also because I want you to befortable, I know that couch can¡¯t be all thatfortable. Stop making it such a big deal.¡± He added with an eyeroll and although his intentions were nice, I didn¡¯t want to.

    Ignoring him, I didn¡¯t say a word and momentster, I felt Mason pushing my head with a finger over and over again while reminding me how I¡¯m currently acting like a kid.

    Yeah sure.

    Pot calling kettle ck.

    We argued for a little while and when I knew the banter could go on and on but wouldn¡¯t lead to anything, he eventually left me on my own.

    After that, we both ignored each other.

    About five minutester, I couldn¡¯t be more grateful when I noticed him falling asleep on the couch opposite mine. He didn¡¯t leave me to sleep on my own like I had expected and had instead slept with me in the sitting room despite how rudely I had treated him.

    ~~~

    Groaning quietly, I turned around to see that it was morning already but Mason was still asleep. I should¡¯ve just followed him to his roomst night.

    I picked up my nket and covered him with it, the rain is still drizzling and it¡¯s kinda cold too. I made my way to the kitchen and after taking my hot tea, I made breakfast for two.

    Mason woke up and I invited him to the dining room with a weing smile. I could tell that he was surprised and somehow my chest tightened when I remembered thest time I made breakfast for two.

    Hepletely ignored it and made his own but this time was different, Mason made his way to the dining and stared at the various foods in front of him and my tightened chest released.

    I served him and we both started to eat silently, I¡¯d already made up my mind to apologize to him this time no matter what it takes.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± I finally said and Mason looked at me in surprise and with a raised eyebrow, he had no idea what I was apologizing for.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for being so hard on you and treating you badly when all you were trying to do was be nice to me, I shouldn¡¯t have acted like a kid and I¡¯m sorry.¡± I exined as fast as I could.

    It seemed as though if I talked any slower then someone would kill me, my gaze was fixed on my food the whole time and when I didn¡¯t hear anything from Mason, I looked up to see him beaming at me.

    His smile was really wide and his eyes glinted, I knew he was smiling because I¡¯d apologize but why does this sight make my heart flutter?

    What has been going on with me these past weeks?

    Everything Mason does gives me butterflies, goosebumps and my heart has been fluttering. It¡¯s weird but I¡¯d tried to convince myself that it was just a friendly feeling since we¡¯re friends now.

    We talked for a while before getting ready to go to a bar. I dressed better than I¡¯d been doing for our dates and even Mason was surprised at how I looked when I got out of my room.

    I had no idea I could pull that many men without even trying. I had a lot of them flirt with me while others asked me to dance and tried to strike a conversation with me but Mason ruined it of course.

    He kept hovering around me despite how much I tried to get away from him. All the res I focused on him didn¡¯t faze him one bit.

    Mason was being ridiculous.

    Tonight of all time was when he had decided to act like some sort of big brother. He kept ring at any guy I was flirting with and cutting into the conversation with subtle threats. At different intervals, he¡¯d outrightly warn them to nevere near me again. He also almost picked a fight with one of the guys at a point.

    We were currently seated beside each other and nursed our drinks silently as we stared at those dancing, making out or doing the silly things they do in clubs. I couldn¡¯t hide the scowl on my face even if I wanted to, one which Mason pointedly ignored.

    ¡°Hey handsome, wanna dance?¡± I heard a female voice drawl out about a minuteter and when I nced, I realised that she was talking to Mason.

    He had been about to start flirting with her when I yanked him away and told the girl to scurry off that he couldn¡¯t possibly dance with her, making sure to stop him from getting it on tonight like he did to me without remorse.

    She was clearly annoyed but she left and I stared at Mason in disgust and I was shook when I saw a smile y across his face when I had anticipated a scowl.

    All these seemed thrilling to him?

    I pointedly ignored him after that, and the club got boring to me pretty fast after that, which prompted me into informing Mason that I¡¯d like to leave. Mason clearly understood, being the reason behind my sour mood and momentster, we both stood to leave. I was still mad at the fact that he had scared off all those men and I couldn¡¯t wait to give him a piece of my mind.

    ¡°Now listen here young man,¡± I started when we got out of the club and could speak without yelling. He raised a brow at me next.

    ¡°What you did in there, I¡¯m warning you now to never try it with me again.¡± I added.

    ¡°What did I did in there?¡± He asked while scoffing a little.

    ¡°Scaring those boys off!¡± I yelled and heughed, I desperately wished I could p him but I can¡¯t.

    He took a step closer to me and I took one back until my back hit the wall and Mason hovered over me.

    ¡°I was only looking out for you, some of these boys are predators¡­¡± He was still speaking when I hissed and walked off.

    Looking out for me? I never asked him to do that!

 Chapter 50

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Ignoring Mason didn¡¯t go as I¡¯d nned it, I didn¡¯t think ignoring him would be so difficult but it was, because the moment I saw him, I felt myself calm at just the sight of him and I knew that I wanted to spend the rest of the day with him.

    I shouldn¡¯t even be mad at him, he was only trying to keep me safe and away from predators, he¡¯s older so he knew better.

    The crippling feeling of guilt soon starts to eat me up and I couldn¡¯t help but just try to apologize and hope he epts my apology.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for acting like a jerk the other day,¡± I apologized and Mason¡¯s head sprung up as he lifted his gaze from his phone to meet mine.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine¡­¡±

    ¡°No, No, it¡¯s not fine because you were only trying to look out for me and I spoke to you rudely which I should¡¯ve done so, no, it¡¯s really not fine and stop acting like it is!¡± I immediately cut in before he could say another word.

    Anytime I try to apologize for something stupid that I¡¯ve done he always makes it seem like I shouldn¡¯t be med for being so rude to him.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, really,¡± he said amidstughter as he shrugged, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have been that over protective, you¡¯re no longer a child and I don¡¯t have to always look out for you.¡± He added and my heart sank.

    He doesn¡¯t think he should look out for me?

    ¡°So, from now on, you¡¯re free to do whatever it is you want to do and you won¡¯t have me there to disturb or tell you how to act.¡± He finished with a smile.

    Although he¡¯d tried to hide it, I just knew that he was hurt by the way I¡¯d spoken to him the other day.

    ¡°That¡¯s not how a big brother acts¡­¡± I mumbled loud enough for him to hear, wincing at how weird the sentence sounded in my head and heughed.

    ¡°I¡¯m not going to interrupt whatever fun thing you¡¯ve got going on but that doesn¡¯t mean I still won¡¯t protect you. You¡¯re free to hang out with guys and all that but not like those irresponsible dudes at the club.¡± He pointed out and I found myself nodding at once.

    I said my thanks to him and we both proceeded to have breakfast. We made it together and neither of us passed any horriblements at each other.

    Shocking.

    As we ate, we both decided to y 20 questions and I couldn¡¯t help but gasp at every nasty thing Mason had done.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be so shocked, I have sky diving and skinny dipping in daytime at the beach on my list before I hit 25.¡± He added with augh and my jaw dropped in shock.

    We both enjoyed each other¡¯spany and it wasn¡¯t long before we finished breakfast and did the dishes together too.

    After a long day of having tough at each other, the day went by fast and we both retired to our different rooms for bed.

    I was already falling asleep when I heard a loud thunderstorm that jolted me out of my sleep at once. It was raining already.

    Why does it always pick the worst time to rain?

    Picking up my nket, I got out of the room toy on the couch in the sitting room but I still couldn¡¯t sleep because of the loud and heavy storm, and because I was the only one downstairs right now.

    My eyes darted across the sitting room to the stairs, I was waiting for Mason to alsoe downstairs like he usually does since he must¡¯ve heard the thunderps.

    I was already used to having him in the sitting room because that was the only way I could fall asleep but after waiting and waiting, Iid on the couch in disappointment.

    Closing my eyes, I tried to summon sleep when I heard another loud thunderstorm that made me jump off the couch.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m not staying here.¡± I mumbled to myself as I climbed up the stairs, heading towards Mason¡¯s room, and then I stopped when I got to his door.

    I¡¯d tried to knock but thought it was a bad idea and held myself for a while, I paced around the hallway trying toe up with a reasonable excuse as to why I should be let into his bedroom by this time.

    A loud thunderstorm echoed once again and it seemed as though it had a force that pushed me because I knocked instantly and it wasn¡¯t long before Mason swung his door open, hair hanging in different directions and hand rubbing his eyes, making him appear so soft and adorable.

    ¡°Ava?¡± He questioned sleepily. This was why he hadn¡¯te downstairs tonight, because he was fast asleep and didn¡¯t hear the thunderps.

    I cleared my throat and apologised for ruining his sleep and before I could say anything, he weed me in since he already knew why I was in his room.

    ¡°Would you like a cup of tea?¡± He asked, voice gravelly as he spoke and a small shiver slid down my spine as I hastily shook my head in response, declining his offer.

    ¡°Would you like toe in?¡± He asked and I nodded once, biting on my bottom lip as my cheeks burned in embarrassment. He pulled back and let me in, and the sound of the door getting shut made me jolt a little.

    The room smelled so much of Mason, making me suppress another shiver. When I nced back at Mason, he was staring at me and I hastily averted my gaze.

    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want the tea? It¡¯s no trouble.¡± He offered once again and I nodded my head firmly.

    He¡¯s already nice enough to let me spend the night in his room, allowing him to make me a cup of tea would be me pushing it too far.

    Next, we both slid into his bed from the two sides,ying extremely still and leaving more than enough space between us. The gap between us didn¡¯t prevent me from feeling his body heat, and his sheets were warm and smelling so much of him that it was almost maddening.

    I was still lying stiffly, and an embarrassing squeak left my mouth when another thunderp rumbled.

    Momentster, I felt Mason¡¯s palm settling over mine and intertwined our fingers together. My breathing ceased at first before I slowly allowed myself to rx.

    He was lightly stroking my palm with his fingers, moving them softly and it wasn¡¯t long before my eyes grew tired.

    I didn¡¯t realise when I fell asleep.

    ~~~

    I slowly blinked my eyes open and unconsciously tried to feel the bed for Mason, but he wasn¡¯t in it. I sprung up at once after that to see that I was still in his room, in his bed¡­ but where is he?

    Waking down the stairs, I saw Mason in the living room and on his phone. He was shirtless and his pants hung low on his hips, making my mouth go dry at first. When he noticed my presence, he smiled at me, and I could only blush In mortification.

    ¡°Good Morning,¡± I greeted, tucking a chunk of my hair behind my ear, ¡°and I¡¯m also sorry for waking you like that in the middle of the night and disrupting your sleep.¡± I apologised again and watched as he pushed off the back of the couch he had been leaning against to close the distance between us and bop my nose lightly, a trading glint visible in his eyes.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, It was no problem at all.¡±

 Chapter 51

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The day went by quickly and we both agreed on taking an evening walk. The walk was slightly silent and I knew he was curious and wanted to know why I was so scared of thunderstorms.

    ¡°So, in case you¡¯re wondering what my stupid fear of Thunderstorm is,¡± I started and although the topic was ufortable to talk about for me, I wanted him to know why I got so scared.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to talk about¡­¡±

    ¡°I lost my dad in a thunderstorm,¡± I continued, he¡¯d wanted to tell me not to talk about it but I wanted to, at least to him, ¡°he¡¯d gone somewhere and had even promised to be back in an hour.¡± I added.

    The memory of my father leaving the house that day was still fresh in my head and I still couldn¡¯t get over the call of my dad being found dead.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°That¡¯s why I get paranoid when waiting for people, you know, when they leave and it starts to rain heavily? I¡¯m always unable to take it and most of the time, I¡¯ll always think of the negative side because of what I¡¯ve been through.¡± I exined and I could see a hint of pity in his eyes.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know, I¡¯m sorry.¡± He apologised in a low tone like it was his fault that I¡¯d lost my father in the storm that day.

    ¡°It¡¯s¡­¡± my voice broke and the tears I was trying to hold back came flowing freely down my cheeks. I¡¯d tried so hard to not cry while I told him about my horrible memory but it didn¡¯t work.

    Looking away from him, I tried to dry my eyes before turning back to him again, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± I sniffed and before I could say anything else, Mason pulled me in a hug.

    I was surprised at first and had stiffened up instantly but after a few moments, I rxed into his warm body  and enjoyed the hug. His body was hard and the way he patted my back slowly and stroked my hair made me even morefortable.

    The long hug soon came to an abrupt end and Mason dried my tears for me as he tilted my face upwards until my gaze met his.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he apologised and I raised an eyebrow, I had no idea why or what he¡¯s currently apologising for, ¡°I made fun of you on our first day here when you had only been scared of what might¡¯ve happened to our parents, and the time I had been out in the storm too.¡± He exined and I shook my head at once.

    ¡°It¡¯s the nicest way anyone has ever felt towards me and I should be really grateful.¡± He finished before pulling me into another hug.

    ¡°You were only scared something horrible might¡¯ve happened to our parents, I¡¯m really sorry.¡± He apologised softly again while stroking my hair.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± I said, holding him this time and making myself feel his body warmth.

    ¡°Let¡¯s take a walk to the beach, we can talk properly there.¡± Mason suggested after a while of being in each other¡¯s arms and I agreed.

    We got Ice cream and we both sat to watch the stars. The silence between us was slightly ufortable but I liked it since I¡¯d just told him about something I might not have wanted to talk about.

    ¡°Ava?¡± Mason called, breaking the silence and I turned to look at him. He looked really handsome in the nightlight and the way his hair fell somewhat on his face lightly made him look even more appealing.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked, wanting to know why he¡¯d called my name like that.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been itching to tell you something and there¡¯s no perfect time to do that but now and here.¡± He continued.

    I felt my chest tighten as I anticipated what he wanted to tell me. Part of me was scared and about to tell him not to say it while another part of me was curious and wanted to hear it.

    ¡°That day when we first met,¡± he started and I calmed down slightly, ¡°you were right, I might have not been looking at where I was going.¡± He confessed.

    ¡°But, the spilled coffee ruined my clothes that day too and I got mad at you, plus I was also in a bad mood so that contributed to my rudeness.¡± He exined.

    ¡°Well, my papers got lost in the mud that day and it was for an important presentation, I ended up not presenting it and I also failed my test because of it, that was why I hated you and most of the time I always wished I could kill you to be honest.¡± I exined and his face dropped.

    I could tell that he felt bad from the way he profusely apologised for making me miss my presentation and also fail my test.

    Shrugging it off, I assured him that it was fine and now in the past, we¡¯re past that already and we shouldn¡¯t allow it get between us again.

    ¡°I have a question though,¡± I started and he raised an eyebrow, ¡°why do you always y those loud musics every night back at home?¡± I asked and Mason let out a roaringughter.

    ¡°There really is nothing behind the loud music, I just do that to get on your nerves.¡± He answered amidstughter and my mouth dropped open.

    ¡°So, they were on purpose?¡± I asked and Mason nodded, he was stillughing, ¡°You!¡± I screamed as I hit his shoulder lightly.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± He apologised, ¡°you seemed to hate me so much and I kinda usually like it when you get mad at me so I intentionally do things that get you riled up.¡± Heughed.

    The sound of hisughter was like music to my ears as I joined him inughing and after a while we both promised to get along with each other.

    We¡¯re definitely going to enjoy the rest of our vacation from the looks of things so far.

 Chapter 52

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We walked back home grinning from ear to ear and talking about everything we could think of. I told Mason what I understood about constetions and he seemed really interested and I just couldn¡¯t stop talking until we got home.

    Something is going on with me and I have no idea what it is.

    We both retired to bed since we were both tired and I looked forward to waking up and meeting Mason downstairs, I closed my eyes to try and sleep and thankfully there was no storm.

    I woke up to the nking of tes and after putting onfortable clothing, I walked down the stairs to see that Mason had already made breakfast and even set the table too.

    We sat and had our breakfast in silence before going to watch a movie in the sitting room and this time I got to pick out the movie we were to watch.

    Even though Mason teased me about my choice of movie, he still sat and enjoyed it with me. It was an emotional romance movie and I didn¡¯t think it would have such a big effect on him.

    ¡°Are you crying?¡± I asked, sniffing and drying up my own tears as I turned to look at Mason whose eyes were red but he managed to deny the fact that he was crying.

    ¡°It¡¯s just a stupid movie, why should I cry?¡± He asked and I couldn¡¯t hold back myughter when I heard the crack in his voice as he spoke.

    ¡°C¡¯mon, I don¡¯t judge.¡± I said nudging him but he only shot me a stare as he stood from the couch.

    ¡°Get ready, we leave in twenty minutes.¡± He announced, changing the subject and when I asked where we were going to, he told me our parents had a reservation at a restaurant and we¡¯ll be going there for dinner.

    Getting up, I went to my room to get ready. I had my bath and walked to my closet as I rummaged through it. I wanted to look nicer than I usually do so I picked out a blue gown.

    It was strapless and short and had a little brooch on it, perks of having a fashionista best friend. Nicole would be so proud if she saw me right now.

    I picked out my ck wedge heels shoes and tried it on, it fitted perfectly and I found myself checking myself out as I let out a slight proud smile at myself.

    Walking out of my room, I found Mason and he was ready too. He had his back to me and his shoulders were perfectly shaped. He also had a blue tux on and when he turned to look at me his jaw dropped.

    ¡°You look¡­¡­ beautiful.¡± He said, blinking multiple times as he spoke and I felt butterflies in my stomach when heplimented me.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I muttered, my cheeks burning when he took my arm in his like he was my date to the dinner. Frankly, he¡¯s my date for dinner.

    We got to the restaurant and we both couldn¡¯t ignore thements the customers passed at us, almost everyone thought we were dating and even one of the waiters had made the mistake which we had to correct.

    The restaurant was one Mason and I had once had lunch together in and our waiters recognized us almost immediately as he came to take our orders.

    Our food soon came and we both started eating in silence until Mason decided to break the silence. It was starting to make me feel ufortable and I was grateful when he spoke up.

    ¡°You know why I imed not to remember anything about this ce when we first came here and you asked me to talk about my time here?¡± He asked and I nodded.

    I was quite unsure where this conversation was heading to but I was curious and wanted to know where.

    ¡°It was because my mum was with us back then and I hated talking about anything that involved her so when I said I couldn¡¯t remember, I lied.¡± He confessed and his face fell as he spoke.

    My heart ached for him because I knew how painful it must¡¯ve been to talk about his mother willingly. I¡¯d tried to avoid the topic but he¡¯d mentioned it on his own will.

    He hated talking about her because of the terrible memories talking about her brought back, he was still sad about the fact that she left him and his dad all alone.

    Instinctively, I took his hand in mine and rubbed it slightly to make himfortable. I had no idea why I did that but I knew it made him feel better because I saw him rx.

    ¡°I¡¯m d our parents found each other because my mother had never been as happy as your dad makes her, your dad makes her really happy.¡± I said with a smile that he returned.

    ¡°I¡¯m d they found each other too,¡± he said, ¡°My dad seems way more happier with your mum than mine.¡± He finished with a smile as he squeezed my hand.

    His hand on mine for as long as this without both of us tearing each other apart felt new to me, the way his gaze bore into mine and how his smile widened when he looked directly into my eyes as if he was peering into my soul.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    I normally would be ufortable but I wasn¡¯t, instead, I felt hot from within and it wasn¡¯t from my ufortableness but from the way my heart beat anytime he was around.

    My heart has been beating a little bit too fast these days and I seem to not be able to do anything about it. The excitement I feel whenever I¡¯m seeing him for the first time in a day was unexinable.

    I had no idea what to make of my feelings and after a while of staring at him, I removed my hand from his and he let them go easily.

    Adjusting my dress and moving on my chair, I suggested that we both concentrate on our meal.

 Chapter 53

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Everything that happenedst night at the restaurant couldn¡¯t leave my head no matter how hard I tried. Cocooned in my nket, I¡¯d made up my mind not to go downstairs for the rest of the day.

    ¡°Ava! Breakfast is ready!¡± That would be the third time he¡¯s calling out to me but his face is thest thing I wanted to see this morning.

    ¡°Ava? I swear I¡¯ll break the door down if you don¡¯t answer me now and have breakfast.¡± He threatened and I could tell that he was already by the door.

    ¡°I¡¯m sick, carry on and I¡¯ll join youter.¡± I lied as I called back to him. I wasn¡¯t sick, I just didn¡¯t want to be in a close range with him.

    He confuses me a lot and I have no idea what to do about my feelings for him. I didn¡¯t even feel like this when Xander kissed me so why am I feeling like this now after our little eye contact and hand holding?

    Just hearing him talk makes my heart race, his smile makes my breathless, and the sound of hisughter makes my stomach fill up with a weird heat. Thinking about those things right now was enough to make my mouth feel extremely dry and right now, I¡¯m going crazy just thinking about it.

    My cheeks felt hot and I couldn¡¯t be anymore grateful when I heard his receding footsteps.

    I heaved out a sigh of relief when I was sure he waspletely gone and I picked up my phone to call Nicole at once.

    She picked up fast as usual and I exined everything to her, how he made me feel and I asked if I should even be feeling like that.

    ¡°I have a question,¡± she started after I was done exining things to her, ¡°do you think that maybe you¡¯re starting to develop some kind of feelings for him?¡± She asked and I gagged.

    Why would she even think that? Feelings? There¡¯s none that Nicole might be thinking about.

    ¡°I¡¯m starting to tolerate him.¡± I answered in a way that seemed like I was correcting her misconceptions.

    ¡°Right, but all these you told me about your heart beating fast anytime you see him and all that is Love if you ask me.¡± She exined and my eyes widened.

    Love? What does she mean by love?This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s love but I don¡¯t think it¡¯s something you want to act on because I feel him holding your hand, keeping you safe during the storm and all that is just him doing big brother duties.¡± She continued her exnation.

    ¡°Big brother duties?¡± I asked, mouth twisting in disgust at that word.

    ¡°Yes, your parents are not with you so I think he might¡¯ve taken it upon himself to be a big brother to you, you can¡¯t possibly be falling in love with him because both your parents are married, Ava, he¡¯s your brother.¡± She pointed out as if I had no idea that Mason is my brother.

    Hanging up, I tossed my phone on the bed and I don¡¯t know why but Nicole¡¯s words hurt me so much but I knew she was only telling the truth.

    Laying back on my bed, I tried to sleep but I couldn¡¯t get Mason¡¯s voice, the sound of hisughter and his smile out of my head.

    I was already dozing when I heard a bang on my door that made me jump out of my bed in fear and I only rxed when I realised it was just Mason.

    ¡°Ava?¡± He called again, hitting the door harder than he did the first time, ¡°your food is getting cold, are you okay?¡± He asked and I couldn¡¯t miss the hint of worry in his voice.

    ¡°I feel sick, just go on. I¡¯ll be fine.¡± I called back but the bang on the door only increased.

    ¡°Get the hell out of your room now or I swear to God that I¡¯ll break this damn door down and drag you to the hospital for a check up myself!¡± He yelled.

    His voice was firm and they sent chills down my spine as he banged on the door again.

    Why does his words sound sexy to me when they shouldn¡¯t?!

    I mentally pped myself and tried to behave as I cautioned myself that I shouldn¡¯t be feeling like this, especially towards Mason, he¡¯s supposed to be my brother for goodness sake!

    Angrily, I stormed out of bed and flung the door open, the worry on Mason¡¯s face soon got reced by surprise. He probably wasn¡¯t expecting it.

    ¡°GO AWAY AND LEAVE ME THE HELL ALONE!¡± I yelled as I stomped my feet on the ground, ¡°I don¡¯t want to hang anywhere around you!¡±

    I¡¯d expected him to get mad too and shout at me but he only took my hand in his, making my mouth fall open in confusion.

    I stared at his hand which was wrapped around mine before lifting my gaze to meet his eyes, he moved closer to me and ced his other hand on my forehead to check my temperature.

    ¡°Ava, if you¡¯re sick you need to eat for strength and so you¡¯ll also be able to take some drugs.¡± He exined softly and something about the way he said my name made me melt.

    ¡°Just get out. GO AWAY!¡± I yelled after shaking my head in order to get any stupid thoughts out of it, and as I pulled my hand away from his hold and tried to turn away from him, I felt a sharp tug on my hand which made me gasp as I was jerked back till Inded on his broad chest.

    Lifting my ming face off his chest, my eyes widened when his other hand snaked around my waist to tug me tightly against him. My heart was thumping really hard and I could barely breathe in properly. His lips were curled downwards as he regarded me with soft but intense eyes and I was unable to look away from it.

    ¡°Say it, one more time,¡± he started, voice husky, ¡°ask me to leave again if you can, and I promise that I will never bug you again.¡± He said, and even though only a few inches were currently separating our faces, it still felt like a whole lot.

    His lips were calling out to me and I was having an internal battle on whether to listen to it or just move away, but the way he bit his lower lips next only made me yearn for it even more.

    And so without thinking twice, I stood on my tippy toes and pressed my lips against his.

 Chapter 54

    Ava¡¯s POV

    As I blinked my eyes open, I saw Mason¡¯s eyes widened and filled up with shock and surprise. I was even taken aback by my abrupt action.

    What is going on with me and why on earth did I kiss him?

    Getting back to my senses, I pulled my lips from his and pushed him away at once, while my cheeks felt like it was on fire.

    I can¡¯t believe I had just kissed Mason! He¡¯s definitely disgusted by me right now.

    Why did he also allow me to do that? He could¡¯ve done something to stop me!

    So many thoughts were currently running through my head and my heart was lodged in my throat.

    ¡°GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE!¡± I yelled next, holding my head as I paced around trying to register what I¡¯d just done.

    I saw the shocked look on Mason¡¯s face and I just knew that he must¡¯ve been wondering why I kissed him and just dismissed him like nothing happened.

    It was my fault, not his. It was my action, not his, so why am I taking it out on him?

    I don¡¯t want to see him right now, I don¡¯t want him anywhere around me for now, I just want him out of my sight for now at least. That¡¯s not so hard to ask for.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to yell,¡± Mason started, his voice piercing through my thoughts and putting a halt to it, ¡°I¡¯ll leave, in fact, I¡¯ll be out till night time so you can have the fucking house to yourself!¡± He added in a yell.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    Why is he getting mad at me?

    I didn¡¯t care, I was relieved when he said he was going to leave the house till nighttime. I watched as he stomped out of the hallway and made his way downstairs.

    The door banged close after some time and I could tell that he was out of the house already. Not caring about him, I ran back into my room to have a rethink on what I just did.

    I just fucking kissed Mason!

    I shouldn¡¯t have done that, I shouldn¡¯t have. He¡¯s my stepbrother, what on earth could¡¯ve made me kiss my own stepbrother?!

    Trying to shake the thought out of my head. I walked to the sitting room to find the table already set. Shrugging, I sat to eat my food alone and it was ufortably silent.

    After disposing of the rest food, I went to watch a movie and the house has never been so silent in the past week. Looking around, I silently wished that Mason would just walk right through the door and tell me he changed his mind about leaving the house to me today.

    I found myself missing him and wishing he was around. I want him back home so we could argue or fight like we used to.

    Anything was better than this silence.

    Anything will do, I just want Mason back home and I have no idea how long I can hold on for without seeing him.

    Trying my best to concentrate on the movie I was watching, the weather soon started to change and the sky got darker.

    Just when I tried to distract myself from thinking about anything horrible, the rain started and it came with a huge thunderstorm.

    Fixing my eyes on the TV so I don¡¯t have to show my fear of thunderstorms and just when I was trying my hardest to be strong, the thunderstorm became stronger that it caused a power outage and now everywhere is really dark.

    I could hear my own heart beating as if it was about to jump out of my chest. Clutching my chest, I found myself sweating even though it was cold and it got really hard to breathe after a little while.

    My vision was getting blurry, I was having another episode of my stupid panic attacks!

    The headlight and loud honk of Mason¡¯s car filled the room and I knew he did that tofort me and let me know he was already outside.

    The door opened abruptly and Mason barged in, he was dripping wet when he got to me and I couldn¡¯t be any more happy orfortable when he pulled me in for a hug.

    Clutching him tightly against me, I cried in his embrace and I was grateful when he didn¡¯t pull away. He stroked my hair and patted my back softly instead in a bid tofort me. His hands were cold but my body responded to it without flinching away.

    Everything got darker and thest thing I could remember was Mason picking me up in his arms and going upstairs.

    Flickering my eyes open, I looked around to see where I was and that was when I noticed that I¡¯m in Mason¡¯s room, on his bed.

    And that was when it struck, like a switch my memories came back and I remembered how he¡¯d brought me into his room and cuddled me so tightly so I wouldn¡¯t have to think about the rain pouring outside.

    I shyly smiled at the memory and I turned sideways to look at him, the rain had stopped now but he was still sleeping. He must¡¯ve slept reallyte from trying to get me to sleep peacefully.

    He looks so perfect when he¡¯s sleeping. Instinctively, I traced my fingers across his face, the smoothness of his face while my eyes moved over his eyes and longshes.

    My fingers hesitantly dropped to his lips and they were the perfect set of lips, soft and smooth. I slowly leaned forward to nt a kiss on it just as Mason¡¯s eyes flicked open.

    Shocked to my bones, I found myself blinking multiple times while also trying toe up with an excuse as to why my face is awfully close to his right now.

    ¡°Will you kiss me now and then shove me away? And run off like you did this afternoon?¡± He murmured, voice deepened from sleep and I almost choked on my spit while my insides tingled at once.

    Taking my hands off his lips and moving my face away from his, I tried to leave the bed when I felt a pull on my arm.

    Mason pulled me back and I fell on his hard chest while a gasp got stuck in my throat, ¡°what the hell is wrong with you?¡± He demanded, eyes narrowed.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know!¡± I answered back in frustration, ¡°I was just being a fool and this was the exact thing that happened with Xander, he kissed me and then he left me, and then¡­¡±

    ¡°But you know I¡¯m not Xander, I¡¯m Mason.¡± I was still talking when he cut in.

    ¡°Exactly! Which makes it worse.¡± I responded, because it was the truth.

    ¡°Touch¨¦,¡± he murmured, and then he rolled us around before I could get another word out until I was beneath him on the bed and he was hovering over me. I blinked up at him, mouth parted in shock as he spoke next.

    ¡°Can I kiss you?¡± His voice teased my skin as he spoke, breath hitting my jaw and I let out another gasp and silently asked myself what the hell is currently going on.

    I gave a tentative nod of my head and Mason closed the distance between us until our lips lightly traced each other, and then he breathed out.

    ¡°Let me hear you say it.¡±

    The feeling of his soft lips moving against mine as he spoke was enough to make heat pool in the lower part of my stomach while my cheeks colored some more.

    ¡°Um, y- yeah.¡±

    As soon as the words left my mouth, Mason regarded me for a few seconds before closing the tiny distance between us and brushing his lips against mine so featherlightly, and it felt so much like the one we had yesterday¡¯s morning.

    His hand grasped my jaw next and I gasped, making our lips slide between each other¡¯s and when Mason moved his lips over mine some more, tracing his tongue over my lips and slightly into my mouth, it made so many shivers run down my spine. When he suddenly sank his teeth into my bottom lip, it made a whimper tumble past my lips at once.

    I couldn¡¯t contain my mortification after that and so I pulled away and hid my face in his chest while mumbling half heartedly.

    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t be doing this right now, you know?¡±

    Mason didn¡¯t stop me when I rolled away from beneath his body, and off the bed.

    He didn¡¯t try to stop me as well, when I exited his bedroom.

 Chapter 55

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The sky was still a bit dark, and so I decided to get some more sleep on getting to my bedroom. All attempts to try falling asleep proved futile but I tried to force it over and over again because I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Mason and our kiss, which I¡¯d rather not think about for now.

    Snuggling under my nket, I closed my eyes tightly, willing the day to fully break as soon as possible.

    ¡ª

    The rays of the sun that made its way into my room made me flicker my eyes open.

    I¡¯d indeed slept, I noted as I rubbed my eyes and sat up. I tried to search for my phone frantically once the sleep had cleared from my eyes. I needed to tell Nicole about what¡¯s going on.

    I need to tell her about everything. Mason and I have kissed twice now and I have absolutely no idea what to make of my feelings for him.

    Nicole picked on the fourth ring and just when I was about to start spilling what had gone down between Mason and I, she spoke.

    ¡°Have you gotten over the ridiculous feeling you have for your step brother?¡± She asked and my words got caught in my throat.

    I couldn¡¯t possibly tell her about kissing Mason now, especially when she thinks the feeling I have for him is ridiculous.

    Although she¡¯s not wrong, what kind of a person falls in love with their step brother?

    ¡°Uhh, Yeah, yeah,¡± I stammered as I clicked my teeth and tried toe up with a believable excuse, ¡°you know, it¡¯s really ridiculous but I¡¯ve thought myself to get over it.¡± I lied and Nicole sighed.

    ¡°Really? What did you do?¡± She asked and I bit my tongue before deciding on what I was going to say next.

    ¡°Yes, Really. He¡¯s family, what kind of a sister would make of me should I have such feelings for my brother?¡± I asked as Iughed nervously, ¡°It was just a stupid feeling and when I was able to remember that he¡¯s family, I was able to get over my confusion.¡± I finished.

    ¡°Good, that¡¯s the right thing to do because I can¡¯t imagine you and your brother doing all those¡­.. gosh.¡± Nicoleughed and I joined in.

    We spoke for a while and she told me about the carnival she went to with Ryan and his cousins, her voice getting high with each word.

    ¡°Sounds like you had a lot of fun.¡± Imented and she told me she did as she went on about the fun she had.

    After we were done talking, I hung up and finally mustered up the courage to leave my room.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    I couldn¡¯t help the guilt that filled me, I¡¯d just kissed my step father¡¯s son and now I¡¯m starting to feel a kind of attachment to Mason which is stupid because I shouldn¡¯t.

    I got downstairs and the kitchen was empty. I¡¯d thought Mason would have prepared breakfast but there was no sign of him or even breakfast.

    What was I expecting? That he¡¯ll make me a feast after what I did and said to himst night?

    He must be ignoring me.

    Shrugging the thought off, I made my food and ate silently as I watched a series on TV that I was engrossed in.

    It was already afternoon and there was still no sign of Mason. Was he that mad at me that he wouldn¡¯t even leave his room because I might be outside?

    Trying to be the bigger person, I went upstairs and knocked on his door but there was no reply. Instinctively, I opened the door and my face got filled with horror at the sight I saw.

    Mason was on the floor, rolling and groaning in pain. Stupid me, I thought he was ignoring me when really he was just in pain.

    Quickly, my feet padded towards him and I kneeled beside him to pick him up, he was burning up really bad and was also shivering. He definitely has a fever now and it must¡¯ve been as a result of him staying out in the rain the day before yesterday.

    I tried to pull him up and ced him on the bed. He was so heavy that I was starting to think why he was on the floor in the first ce.

    I went to the kitchen to make soup for him and I fed it to him, including a few drugs. I also tried to pull off his hoodie so he could wear something lighter.

    His chest was really huge and his muscles were toned, he¡¯s perfect in every fucking way. I wanted to trail my fingers over the ridges of his bare chest but I held myself back.

    It took a whole lot of power and self control for me to look away from his chest and force another cloth on him, with him being little to no help.

    I stayed in the room with him and an hourter, Mason was getting better. His fever had gone down and he wasn¡¯t burning up like the other time anymore.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± He said with a smile which I returned warmly.

    He looks really good.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± I said, brushing his hair off his forehead, ¡°I actually thought you didn¡¯te downstairs because you were mad at me.¡± I added shyly and he smiled softly.

    ¡°I can¡¯t possibly stay mad at you for long.¡± He replied and I felt the butterflies basking in my stomach.

    I stood to leave his room and Mason also stood to follow me.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± I asked, looking him up and down since I felt like he still needed to rest.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to help you do the dishes.¡± He answered.

    ¡°No, you should rest.¡± I protested.

    ¡°Well fine, I will just sit and watch you do the dishes then.¡± He spoke and Iughed.

    Finally giving in, Mason and I walked to the kitchen and he sat while I did the dishes. He kept mypany and I enjoyed it as we talked about musicians and cars.

    Trying to put a te on the top shelf, I jumped but I still couldn¡¯t reach it. I felt a hand on mine from behind me and I smiled to myself when Mason took the te from me and ced it on the top shelf.

    Wanting to remove my hand from his, I moved slightly and slipped since the floor was wet but Mason caught me almost quickly.

    I opened my eyes to see that Mason was also staring at me, we looked into each other¡¯s eyes and it looked like we were searching through each other¡¯s souls at the same time as Mason¡¯s head inched towards mine.

 Chapter 56

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I stared at him as his head inched towards me and just for a moment I wanted it too, I wanted to kiss him. I tried to move but it felt as though my legs were glued to the ground.

    With each breath I took his face came impossibly closer and I snapped my eyes shut waiting for it to happen but my mum¡¯s disappointed face appeared in my mind.

    Swiftly opening my eyes, I tried to suppress my snicker when I saw that Mason¡¯s eyes were still closed. Dipping my hand into the sink discreetly, I sshed water on his face and it opened immediately.

    The frown was evident as his forehead wrinkled and I couldn¡¯t help but burst outughing.

    ¡°You look so ugly when you frown, it doesn¡¯t suit you.¡± Iughed, his face still amusing to me.

    ¡°Oh yeah?¡± He asked like he was about to challenge me to do something and I just knew that it wouldn¡¯t be good.

    ¡°I look ugly when I frown?¡± He drawled once again as he slowly made his way to the sink and soon I felt water on my face.

    Opening my mouth in shock and utter surprise, I reciprocated without hesitation.

    So what if I started it?

    Mason and I began a water fight before I could stop to think about what¡¯s currently happening in the kitchen right now and it wasn¡¯t long before we both got drenched. I fought to catch my breath and when I tried to wipe the water off my face, I opened it to see Mason staring at me.

    I could see his eyes burning with uncontroble desire and yearning and just before I could say anything, Mason pushed me back roughly and yet gently against the sink.

    ¡°If I don¡¯t kiss you now, Ava. I¡¯m gonna go crazy, really crazy that I don¡¯t know what I¡¯ll do if I don¡¯t.¡± He said, voice ragged as his breath puffed over my face and there was so much longing in his eyes.

    My eyes widened and my heartbeat elerated as I stuttered out.

    ¡°But, We¡¯re¡­.¡± I was still talking when he cut me off.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Forget about what or who we are, fucking forget about everyone else and just focus on us. Focus on me, Ava.¡±

    Not knowing what else to say, I gave a nod of my head, gulping emptily when he inched even closer to me until our bodies were pressed against each other¡¯s.

    Mason pulled me closer and I let out an incoherent sound, mouth cking when he framed my face with one of his hands. He tilted my head backwards, eyes ghosting over every feature on my face before settling on my face, and then before I could drag in a deep breath, his mouth wasing down on mine.

    The kiss started off slow and soft, passionate in fact, and I felt goosebumps gather on every inch of my bare arms as he deepened the kiss even more, swallowing the small sound that bubbled past my throat. Minutes into the kiss and I had no idea of what came over me, but I began to return his kiss hungrily.

    As soon as his tongue slide into my mouth to tangle with mine, I found myself trembling and scrambling to clutch on his biceps. The kiss grew wetter and a mewl slipped past my lips against his, but that only seems to be fueling him on, because the kiss grew more intense.

    Each stroke of his tongue made me want even more, each press of his hand on my waist made me arch wantonly, while silently wishing the kiss never ends.

    It was more than just a kiss, it was way better than the first two times we kissed, I didn¡¯t want it to ever end. I¡¯ve never been kissed so hungrily and passionately in my entire life until today.

    Mason broke the kiss as he pulled away from me but his hand was still on my waist. My head spun and my heart raced.

    The butterflies in my stomach increased and my heart still beat as though it was about to jump out of my chest.

    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m going to change.¡± I stammered as I tried to run out of the kitchen, I couldn¡¯t meet his gaze, I was too shy to do that and my heart was still beating so fast it was embarrassing.

    ¡°And who would clean the wet floor?¡± He asked, making me stop in my tracks. I knew he wanted me to turn and look at him but I didn¡¯t.

    ¡°You¡¯re the oldest, it¡¯s your responsibility. You clean it.¡± I answered and not saying another word, I ran out of the kitchen as fast as my legs could carry me.

    I didn¡¯t need a change of clothes, I wasn¡¯t going into my room to change or even do anything, that was just an excuse. mming my door shut, I rested my back against the door and the memory of what happened down there flooded me.

    I¡¯m still in awe, I couldn¡¯t believe that Mason and I just kissed the way we did, my palm felt cold and I tried to get it to warm up.

    Finally summoning the courage to breathe the same air as Mason, I went back downstairs and although things were awkward for me, he didn¡¯t make it seem like it was that awkward.

    The day passed by quickly and night soon came, the phone rang and I checked to see that it was our parents. For a moment I¡¯d forgotten about them.

    Picking up the call, Mason and I took turns talking to my mother and Danny. Danny is fully recovered now and we all talked about how the break ends in two days and how we¡¯re nning on going back home.

    Danny asked about Mason and I getting along and I couldn¡¯t help my smile when he answered the question and told them nice things about me, I did the same too.

    ¡°Okay, d to see that you both finally found your rhythm,¡± my mumughed and Danny joined in, ¡°We have a surprise for you and we sure as hell can¡¯t wait to have you back.¡± She shrieked and Mason and I shared a look.

    After a while of talking, they hung up and I wanted to hurriedly run back to my room when Mason pulled me back.

    ¡°Where are you rushing off to?¡± He asked as he ced me on hisp since he didn¡¯t want me to sit far away from him.

    ¡°Hmm, No, I¡¯m not rushing anywhere, I just wanted to brush my hair.¡± I lied, it was the most stupid excuse and I knew Mason wouldn¡¯t buy it.

    ¡°It looks perfect.¡±

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s¡­. I, you know¡­¡± I had no idea what I was going to say when Mason bursted outughing.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to run,¡± he said amidstughter, ¡°I won¡¯t kiss you anymore unless you ask for it of course, then I¡¯ll have to kiss you.¡± He added and I smiled.

    Moving, we bothid on the couch with Mason cuddling me and stroking my hair lightly.

    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna go home,¡± he started, ¡°It¡¯ll never be like this ind and I only got to enjoy my vacation because you¡¯re here with me.¡± He finished and I smiled.

    ¡°I only got to enjoy it too because you¡¯re here.¡±

 Chapter 57

    Ava¡¯s POVThis is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    Closing my eyes to enjoy the cuddle, it felt as though there was no time on our side anymore but Mason and I made sure to make the most of thest two days we have on the ind.

    We would act like couples and hold hands anywhere we were going to. Mason was really sweet and I couldn¡¯t believe I spent months hating him.

    We went on multiple dates and he made the sweetest gestures, beach dates and we even kissed and almost made out on the beach. The best ce where our make out sessions took ce was in the sitting room.

    We could be watching a movie and get distracted with each other and start kissing. He never made kissing me feel like a chore and he also made sure to always make me feel special and extremely desired.

    Anytime it rained, Mason would make a forte in the sitting room and hold me close, whispering nice things into my ear as he held me close and constantly nibbled on my ear.

    My phone rang, jolting me out of my deep thoughts and I¡¯d almost jumped until I realized it was my phone. I picked it up to check who it was and I saw Nicole¡¯s name boldly written.

    ¡°Hey bestie!¡± I shrieked as soon as I picked up the call, I¡¯ve been really happy and excitedtely and it was all thanks to no one else but Mason.

    ¡°Hey!¡± Nicole shrieked back, matching my energy beforeughing out loud, ¡°You sound really happy, Ava. What¡¯s the secret?¡± She asked and Iughed.

    ¡°Can¡¯t a girl just be happy? There¡¯s no secret.¡± I answered amidstughter and just then Mason crept up on me and hugged me from behind.

    ¡°There¡¯s definitely something,¡± she insisted and I rolled my eyes, ¡°who¡¯s he?¡± She asked, concluding that it had to do with a guy.

    ¡°I¡¯m telling you that there is no ¡®he¡¯,¡± I answered and Mason came to stand in front of me with a raised eyebrow as if he was offended, ¡°I¡¯ve just been studying and I don¡¯t have any time for any guy so, there you go.¡± I added and Mason¡¯s frown deepened.

    What was he expecting me to say? That I¡¯m making out with my step brother? No way!

    ¡°I¡¯m offended.¡± He whispered and fake pouted, making me smile. I pulled him closer to me and kissed me as Nicole talked on the other end of the phone.

    ¡°Uhm, I have to go now, Nicole.¡± I announced, I had no idea how long Mason would keep kissing me and I didn¡¯t want Nicole to hear the smooching noises. Thankfully, she understood.

    ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll see you as soon as I get back in town.¡± She said before hanging up and Iughed.

    Mason and I soon started packing and he did most of the work but I helped out with loading into the trunk of the car.

    We got into the car and before we started our journey, Mason called his dad and of course my mum was also on the other end of the call.

    ¡°When do you think you guys will be here?¡± Danny asked and Mason exined to him that we should be home by evening since he¡¯ll be driving without stopping.

    ¡°Baby girl.¡± My mum called since she knew it was on speaker phone.

    ¡°Hi mum!¡± I answered her as I yanked the phone from Mason and heughed, ¡°I better have my favorite food ready.¡± I said and sheughed as she made me a promise.

    We finished talking and Mason said we¡¯d better start driving so we¡¯ll get home early. I agreed with him and he started the car as he drove out of the Ind house.

    I¡¯m going to miss this ce but I still have the memories in my head so that will definitely do. The drive back home was different from when we wereing to the Ind.

    We spoke about a lot of things and I listened as Mason talked about his girls. I had no idea why but I got jealous and he noticed it.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, they don¡¯te close to you.¡± He said and my heart fluttered as he leaned in to kiss me. His eyes left the road and we almost ran into a truck but we swerved.

    ¡°You almost got us killed!¡± I shouted beforeughing and he joined in. We continued talking about a lot of things and I told him why I don¡¯t have a car yet because I couldn¡¯t drive and I had no drivers license.

    Enjoying our drive home, we sang along to the song that Mason yed and it was all shades of fun. We stopped to have lunch and just when we wanted to continue our drive, it started to rain.

    ¡°A storm ising,¡± he announced like I couldn¡¯t already see it due to the weather change, ¡°Let¡¯s stay somewhere safe till it¡¯s over.¡± He added and I was touched by his thoughtfulness.

    He found the perfect spot to park and talked to me till the storm passed.

    When it was over, we continued our journey and by Evening just as Mason had predicted, we were home. Danny and my mum were excited to see us and we¡¯re excited to see them too.

    Walking to our various rooms, I went to freshen up and change into another cloth before going back downstairs for dinner.

    We ate as a family and unlike thest time we were home, the air was different. Mason would ask for my help with something on the table and I had no problem passing it to him.

    We stole nces at each other discreetly and we just couldn¡¯t help but notice the satisfied look on our parents face.

    They¡¯re probably proud of themselves for suggesting the vacation.

    ¡°I like what I¡¯m seeing,¡± My mom started and I rolled my eyes, ¡°I¡¯m so d we suggested the trip.¡± She added and Danny kissed her.

    ¡°Eww.¡± Masonmented and Iughed. I stole another nce at him and just then, he squeezed my hand softly.

    We¡¯ve been holding hands since the beginning of dinner.

 Chapter 58

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Dinner passed and we all went to bed after watching a movie. Our parents wouldn¡¯t stop talking about how pleased they are about the fact that Mason and I haven¡¯t bought or done anything.

    Dinner was pleasing and I was really happy to be back home with my mum but I was mostly happy about being with Mason. We held hands and he wouldn¡¯t stop rubbing my hand in aforting way.

    I couldn¡¯t bring my gaze to meet his, I was too shy to do that although I had no idea why and it must¡¯ve been because we¡¯re with our parents.

    Walking back to my room, I took off my clothes to have my bath and get ready to sleep. I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Mason and his smiling face, his soft lips and beautiful eyes.

    The ray of sun that made its way into my room made me groan as I opened my eyes and it felt like I was hit with thousands of lights.

    ¡°I should¡¯ve just used my sleeping mask.¡± I muttered to myself before standing up to close the curtain shut.

    I got ready for the day and when I was done, I picked up my phone to call Nicole and she picked up faster than I thought she would.

    ¡°Hey,¡± she said into the phone and I smiled, I missed my best friend, ¡°how are you doing?¡± She asked and I told her I was doing great.

    ¡°I¡¯m back home now.¡± I announced to her and she shrieked before telling me that she would be home tomorrow.

    Nicole and I agreed to do a sleepover because that way we¡¯ll be able to talk all through the night. We spoke for a while before I hung up.

    As usual, we all had fun at home and I wished the day wouldn¡¯t pass. I didn¡¯t want to stop seeing Mason but we all needed to go to our various rooms.

    I changed into my nightgown beforeying on the bed. I was trying to sleep when I heard a knock on my window and my jaw dropped when I saw that it was Mason.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t use the door, I didn¡¯t want to run into my dad.¡± He exined and I couldn¡¯t hold back myughter, he really scaled the fence to get to me, ¡°stopughing.¡± He cautioned before pulling me closer to him.

    We both walked to the bed andid down while Mason held and cuddled me as we began to talk. We talked about girls and that was when I realized that I was nothing close to Mason¡¯s type.

    I felt sad and refused to turn to him when he asked. Not saying another word, he turned me to himself and lifted my gaze.

    ¡°My type doesn¡¯t really matter and not just right now, anymore,¡± he started, ¡°because to me, you¡¯re all that matters.¡± He finished and my cheeks flushed.

    He pressed his lips on mine hard and I didn¡¯t want it to stop, the kiss was filled with hunger and pleasure and I had no idea how it happened but my top flew off and Mason¡¯s mouth was now on my nipples.

    The sensation I felt was new and it sent cold chills down my spine, I arched my back instinctively and Mason¡¯s tongue yed with my nipple.

    I let out a moan out of control and smacked my mouth with my palm in a bid to cover it and Mason smirked. Tracing his fingers down my body, he made it to my panties and I could feel his cold fingers on my bare stomach, inching downwards.

    Do I want this? Am I ready for this?

    Not knowing what else to do, I held his hand to stop him.

    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡­ I don¡¯t think I¡¯m ready.¡± I stammered, my cheeks hot and I felt shy.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, we¡¯ll take it slow then.¡± He agreed and he removed his hands as he cuddled me. I felt a drip between my legs but I said nothing about it.

    Closing my eyes, I decided I was going to enjoy Mason¡¯s embrace for the night.

    ***Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I opened my eyes and searched the bed for Mason but he was no longer there. He must¡¯ve left because of our parents.

    I got ready for the day and my mum invited me to go to the store with her and I agreed. We walked through the aisle and I had no idea what we were looking for until my mum stopped in the underwear aisle.

    ¡°Do you like it?¡± She asked, it was a beautiful redce pantie, who wouldn¡¯t like it? I nodded.

    She got it alongside a pack of condoms and my mouth dropped open when she handed it to me.

    ¡°What do I use it for?!¡± I asked, almost shouting and my motherughed at me.

    ¡°Well, I noticed you¡¯ve been extra happy these days and for a girl your age it definitely has to do with a boy. I¡¯m just protecting you.¡± She exined and although it made sense, I didn¡¯t want a pack of condoms.

    My mother made sure to force me to take it and defeated. I took it from her reluctantly and after we were done, we both went out to have lunch together.

    Nicole called meter that evening that she was around and not long after, I heard a slight knock on the door. Excited, I wanted to go answer it when I met Mason there already.

    I watched secretly as he opened the door for her and I¡¯d expected him to flirt with or try to get her number but he only smiled at her and told her I was upstairs.

    I felt butterflies in my stomach and my heart fluttered. He was right when he said I¡¯m all that mattered to him.

    ¡°Nicole!¡± I called and Nicole sprinted towards me with her smile wide as we both hugged and walked to our room.

    ¡°Mason seemed to have changed a whole lot!¡± She pointed out and I raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked, knowing what age meant but wanting her to exin.

    ¡°He didn¡¯t flirt or say a word to me downstairs. He must¡¯ve gotten a girlfriend, a really serious one, do you know?¡± Nicole asked and I shook my head negatively.

    Thinking about what Nicole said made me wonder if I was qualified to be called Mason¡¯s girlfriend.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go out for a cup of coffee.¡± Nicole¡¯s voice jolted me out of my thoughts and I stood to change.

 Chapter 59

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Nicole and I had fun and although we went out only for a cup of coffee, we did a lot more things. We went sightseeing because we missed everything and when it waste, we made our way back home.

    Getting into my room we both sat on the bed exhausted and ready for our sleepover. Nicole and Iid down and began to talk about things. I listened with keen interest as she told me about all that happened during the break.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    ¡°We visited lots of ces and god, do I love his cousins! They were so nice and sweet to me.¡± She continued and we¡¯ll bothugh at the funny ones.

    My interest grew as Nicole told me about Ryan¡¯s family and everything. When she was done, she turned to me and nudged me to start talking.

    I told her about the Ind and all of the expensive ces I visited which was all thanks to Danny and my mum. I told her about the beach and the stars and her eyes lit up.

    I knew it wasn¡¯t because of what I was talking about, she¡¯d always considered me boring but after what I exined to her, I guess she felt a little bit interested.

    ¡°Did you meet anyone? A guy? Cute one? Tell me!¡± She started, her curiosity going over the edge and Iughed.

    Nicole is always curious when ites to things like this so I didn¡¯t me her. I sighed as I thought about her question before answering.

    ¡°Not really.¡± I finally spoke after a while of silence and Nicole sprung to her feet.

    ¡°What do you mean not really?¡± She asked, ¡°you mean, all through the break you didn¡¯t meet anyone that spikes your interest?¡± She asked again and I shook my head.

    ¡°I did meet some guys but well, Mason sent them all away, barking and snarling at them like an overprotective brother.¡± I exined and Nicoleughed.

    The memory of what happened that night at the club flooded me and now that I think about it, I loved it. He was only being overprotective and looking out for me.

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s how brothers behave. They¡¯re all the same.¡± Nicoleughed and I faked a gag.

    ¡°It was horrible, I mean, how do you expect your sisters to meet a guy or date one when you keep sending all of them away?!¡± I said amidstughter.

    ¡°I know, right?!¡± Nicole agreed and we bothughed as I sat down because Nicole already suggested we put a little makeup on and take some pictures together.

    ¡°Speaking of Mason, I noticed something,¡± she started and I rolled my eyes, ¡°No, don¡¯t roll your eyes, I¡¯m serious.¡± She added.

    ¡°What did you notice, Sherlock?¡± I asked before bursting intoughter.

    ¡°Well, He¡¯s really changed and even nicer to you now, you both haven¡¯t had an outburst since. What¡¯s the secret?¡± She asked and Iughed as I shrugged and told her that there was no secret.

    I sat and allowed Nicole to help me with my makeup since I have only a little idea of how to put makeup on.

    ¡°I¡¯ll never understand how you¡¯re friends with me and yet still unable to put your own makeup on.¡± She hissed as she applied my eye shadow and Iughed.

    ¡°Which is why I¡¯m friends with you.¡± I answered amidstughter and she gave me a subtle tap on my shoulder.

    We took pictures and when we were done, we both decided on the movie we wanted to watch.

    ¡°I¡¯ll start setting things up here, you go and get the snacks for us.¡± I told Nicole and she yfully saluted before leaving which made meugh.

    I picked up the thick nket and started setting it on the floor. I walked to the bed to pick up two pillows for Nicole and I when I felt someone hold me from behind.

    ¡°Holy crap!¡± I whispered, ¡°you scared the hell out of me, why are you here?¡± I added again in a whisper.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to see you of course,¡± He whispered back and I asked him to leave at once because Nicole was around and we didn¡¯t want to risk her knowing about us.

    Mason pouted and he looked like a little child as he folded his arms on his chest, ¡°you should ask Nicole to leave, not me. I live here.¡± He said and Iughed slightly.

    ¡°I can¡¯t do that, she¡¯s my friend and we¡¯re having a sleepover.¡± I whispered.

    ¡°And that¡¯s why I can¡¯t spend the night with you, because of her,¡± he said, pouting again, ¡°just tell her to go.¡± He added and I shook my head.

    ¡°It¡¯s just one night, Mason, you can live one night without me now go before she sees you here.¡± I cautioned and he sighed.

    When I realized he wouldn¡¯t leave, I stood on my tiptoe to nt a kiss on his lips. Knowing Mason, the kiss grew and he pulled me closer to him to press my lips on his harder.

    ¡°You look so sexy with makeup on.¡± He pointed out and I blushed as he kissed me again.

    Soft and slow, I loved the fact that he could be gentle with me. I watched Mason grow from a man that I detest to someone who I find it hard to sleep without.

    Pulling away from him, ¡°Leave quickly now, please.¡± I pleaded with him and he agreed. I kissed him again and it was slightly shorter than all of our kisses but I just wanted him out of my room so Nicole wouldn¡¯t see.

    We turned towards the door so he could leave and both of us froze when we saw who was at the door. I was holding him but I removed my hand from his hold at once.

    My jaw dropped and my mouth opened wide when I saw the door wide open and Nicole was standing there too with a bowl of junk in her hand.

 Chapter 60

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Mason left the room immediately but Nicole still had her shocked face on and as soon as Mason walked out of the door, she mmed it shut and walked directly to me.

    ¡°Uh uh.¡± I muttered loud enough for her to hear me and she raised an eyebrow as she stopped the bowl of junk she had with her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ¡®uh uh¡¯ me and start fucking talking,¡± She started, ¡°are you insane?!¡± She yelled and I begged her to keep her voice down.

    ¡°Nicole, be quiet please.¡± I murmured and her eyes widened.

    ¡°Are you kidding me?! That¡¯s your brother, you both were kissing and getting all cozy and you want me to be quiet?!¡± Nicole yelled but I covered her mouth with my palm before all she had to say slipped out.

    ¡°Fine! I¡¯ll tell you everything, just be quiet.¡± I said, my palm still on her mouth and after a while of silence she nodded as she promised to be quiet till I was done talking.

    Finally bracing myself up, I exined everything to Nicole and I watched as she listened with her mouth open. She would gasp and ask me if I was still thinking with my brain.

    ¡°End this now before it gets further than this and get out of hand!¡± She bellowed and I raised an eyebrow.

    How am I going to end things just the moment that I start to feel happy?

    ¡°Weren¡¯t you the one who told me to have fun?¡± I asked and Nicole gasped.

    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re trying to pin this on me now,¡± she answered my question with one of hers, ¡°I asked you to have fun with other guys, not your own fucking brother. Ava, end this NOW.¡± She ordered and Iughed.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m not going to.¡± I answered and her eyes looked as though it was going to pop out of her socket.

    All Nicole has been since she saw Mason and I kissing was shocked and no amount of words would be able to express her surprise.

    ¡°What do you mean?!¡± She asked.

    ¡°I mean, I¡¯m not ending this, he makes me happy and I really just want to see where this whole thing leads. It¡¯s not like we¡¯re getting married, we¡¯re just having fun so calm down.¡± I exined.

    Nicole opened her mouth to talk but all she had to say got caught up in her throat so she didn¡¯t say anything. We both agreed to not talk about it and just focus on the movie.

    We put the movie on and Nicole slept off while it was still on. Typical Nicole. My phone chimed and I picked it up to see a text from Mason.

    Slowly, I stood up and made sure I didn¡¯t make a sound when I walked out of the room to make my way to Mason¡¯s.

    He¡¯d suggested that we hang out in his room and since I wasn¡¯t feeling sleepy and in the mood to finish the movie, it was the best idea.

    I got in and Mason started kissing me as soon as the door opened. I made sure I was able to keep up with the pace of his kiss.

    Standing on my tiptoe, I wed at his back while he fucked my mouth with his tongue, everything he did made my knee weak and I was left yearning for more.

    I had no idea how but we soon got to the bed andid on it. Mason pulled his top off and I marveled at how perfect his chest is. It¡¯s not like I haven¡¯t seen it before but the flexing of his muscles sent chills down my spine.

    Slowly, he pulled my top off too and traced his tongue from my mouth to my neck and then my boobs. He nibbled around my nipples with his tongue before finally taking it in his mouth and sucking on it hungrily.

    Not knowing what to do, Iid down there as I let him do what he wanted with me, Mason¡¯s fingers moved from my thighs up to my panties.

    I thought of stopping him but the pleasure was too much to even get the words out of my mouth so I allowed him, he slid my panties to the side.

    ¡°You¡¯re fucking wet.¡± He smirked before inserting one finger into my pussy and I gasped in pleasure.

    ¡°Oh god!¡± I couldn¡¯t help the moan that slipped my mouth as Mason twirled his finger inside my pussy before introducing another one.

    My boobs was still in his mouth while his fingers yed with my clit and fucked me. I threw my head back as I enjoyed the pulsating pleasure that filled me.

    My toe curled and my body vibrated. I moaned louder but Mason cautioned me, I had no idea what it was but I felt liquid gush out of my pussy before Mason left me.

    ¡°That was¡­¡± I started,pletely out of breath and not knowing what word to use.

    ¡°Fantastic?¡± Mason asked and I nodded, ¡°you just had an orgasm.¡± He added with a smile.

    I had no idea what orgasm felt like before now and it was the perfect kind of feeling. Mason cuddled me and it wasn¡¯t long before I fell asleep.

    Making sure I woke up at dawn, I picked up my phone and snuck out of Mason¡¯s room back to mine but Nicole was up already and smirking on me.

    This can¡¯t be good.

    ¡°So,¡± she started and I facepalmed myself, ¡°I heard you moaning so fucking loudst night, was he that good? Did you lose your virginity? How big is his cock?¡± Nicole flooded me with questions and I groaned.

    ¡°We didn¡¯t have sex.¡± I affirmed and she just shrugged.

    Getting into bed, Iid beside Nicole and I couldn¡¯t help but think aboutst night.

    ¡°I really hope you know what you¡¯re doing,¡± she started and I sighed, ¡°I don¡¯t want you to get hurt so just be careful.¡± She added and I nodded as I turned to her.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I mumbled.

    ¡°Are you both dating now?¡± She asked and I shrugged

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, I guess we¡¯re just going with the flow.¡±

    ¡°Be careful.¡±Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 61

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We grew impossibly closer with each day that passed and unlike before where we would fight till any one of us gave up, Mason was willing to drive me anywhere I wanted to go to.

    Nothing was off to our parents as they only thought that the vacation we went on gave us the avenue to grow to like each other like siblings.

    It wasn¡¯t long before we started doing more than kissing, Mason¡¯s fingers in my pussy, the way he kissed me and yed around with my nipples made me shake with insane orgasm.

    Last night was fun with Mason and I having our usual escapades, no one in the house seemed to notice us. Morning soon came and I got ready for my outing with Danny.

    He got a concert ticket and had decided that he was going to the concert with me and I knew it was one of his ns for us to bond like father and daughter.

    The experience was beautiful and Danny and I had fun as we sang along to the music the singer yed and soon we were exhausted and decided to have dinner together.

    Danny was sweet to me and I totally saw him as a father figure. We spoke about a lot of things over dinner and I was happy to share the experience with him.

    ¡°Ava?¡± He called and I raised my head from my te as I looked at him, ¡°can I talk to you about something?¡± He asked and I nodded.

    My chest clenched in fear even though I knew that he had no idea about me and Mason I still couldn¡¯t help but get scared.

    ¡°When it¡¯s time to date and you know, do things girls your age do, I want you to be really careful.¡± He started and I released a breath I had no idea I was holding in.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked as Iughed nervously and he just nodded.

    ¡°Yes, I know you¡¯re seeing someone already because your mother told me she got you some protection and it¡¯s totally fine, it¡¯s okay for a girl your age, you¡¯re not too young to have all that fun but I¡¯m just worried about you.¡± He exined and my heart warned as I stared at him.

    ¡°I really appreciate that you¡¯re looking out for me, it¡¯s the best thing you could ever do for me.¡± I said and he smiled.

    ¡°Just be safe, okay?¡± He advised and I nodded.

    We drove back home together and Mason was already outside waiting for us. The butterflies in my stomach grew when I realized it was because he missed me so much.

    We got out of the car and walked towards Mason, Danny hugged me and nted a kiss on my forehead before walking inside the house and he slightly tapped Mason¡¯s shoulder with a smile that Mason returned.

    As soon as the door closed, I ran towards Mason and kissed him. I missed him so much too. He hugged me and when he pulled away from me was when I noticed he had his guitar with him.

    We went somece else and Mason yed for me, he really knew how to work with his fingers and I¡¯m not surprised. The music was so melodious that I started to get goosebumps.

    cing my head on his shoulder, we both sat and watched the stars and I couldn¡¯t stop talking about them.

    ¡°What are we?¡± I asked, lifting my head from his shoulder and waiting for his answer but he only chuckled.

    ¡°What do you want us to be? Or rather, what do you want to be with me?¡± He asked and I shrugged.

    I wanted to be more but I didn¡¯t want to scare him off with my demands and so I just told him that I didn¡¯t know what I wanted to be and he smiled as he touched my face.

    ¡°I like you, so fucking much, Ava.¡± He started and I smiled, ¡°you¡¯re more than a friend to me and I sure as hell will not let you be my sister because I can¡¯t get my hands off you, I can¡¯t keep them to myself and I can¡¯t live without talking to you.¡± He added.

    The confession made my heart flutter and my cheeks flushed with every word he spoke.

    ¡°I¡¯m addicted to you and I also want you so fucking bad even right now,¡± he continued, ¡°ever made out in a car?¡± He asked and the question was sudden for me.

    I told him I have but it wasn¡¯t the best experience, I regretted it and ran home as soon as I got the chance, Masonughed at me and I yfully pped his shoulder.

    ¡°Trust me, I¡¯ll treat you better.¡± He promised and he took my hand as he helped me up and led me to his car.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    We got into the car and I was grateful that it had tinted ss, that way no one would be able to see what was going on in the car.

    We started kissing and soon both our clothes were scattered everywhere in the car. How the car was able to fit both of us in the backseat sofortably was beyond me.

    Mason is experienced with things like this while I¡¯m naive.

    He started kissing me hungrily as he made his way with his lips down to my boobs and then my stomach and I gasped when I felt his tongue on my pussy.

    ¡°W¡­ wha.. what are you doing?¡± I asked, trying to get up but I felt his tongue on my pussy again and I fell back, weak.

    ¡°I want to be your first everything so please, let me.¡± I could hear the need in his voice and my cheeks flushed again as Iid back down and let him continue with what he was doing.

    He kissed my clit before inserting his tongue inside my pussy, the act made my toe curl and I grabbed his head. My body shook with orgasm as Mason fucked me with his tongue.

    Not just his tongue, he made sure he used his fingers too and his tongue and finger moved rhythmically in and out of my pussy and I couldn¡¯t help the moan that escaped my mouth.

    God, I love him so much.

 Chapter 62

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Danny and my mum nned on leaving the house early to go on a date. They wanted to have breakfast without us and I wasn¡¯t bothered about that.

    It only meant more time to spend with Mason.

    I still had one more week to spend time with him before college resumed the next week and then I¡¯ll be back to doing crazy assignments, researching, projects, tests.

    The thought alone was killing me and my head started spinning. Hopefully, I am going to be able to keep up because I haven¡¯t even made out time to study.

    Most of the free time I had was spent making out and having fun with Mason.

    Walking Danny and my mum to the door, I said my goodbye before making my way down to the kitchen. My stomach growled and I groaned at it to keep quiet.

    Pulling out a bowl, I took out milk from the fridge and started pouring my cereal into the bowl. I was adding the milk when I felt Mason¡¯s strong arm wrapping around me from behind.

    Turning me around, he hugged me before lifting my face to nt a kiss on my lips. Since we¡¯ve been sneaking around and having fun, all I¡¯ve been is happy.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    I have never been any happier and I was grateful that I decided to give our escapades a chance because now I didn¡¯t want it to stop.

    ¡°What are you making?¡± He asked as he peered through and his face changed when he saw the bowl of cereal, making meugh.

    ¡°Cereal,¡± I answered like he hadn¡¯t seen it, ¡°want me to make you a bowl?¡± I asked and he groaned.

    ¡°Can¡¯t we eat something else?¡± He asked and Iughed again.

    ¡°Only if you¡¯re going to cook it.¡± I answered and he immediately agreed to me making him a bowl.

    Pulling out another bowl, Mason and I sat down to start eating and while having breakfast we started chatting about a lot of things.

    ¡°So,¡± Mason started and I lifted my gaze to meet his eyes, ¡°what did Nicole say about us when she saw the whole thing?¡± He asked and I smiled.

    ¡°Well, she warned me against it at first and¡­¡± I was still talking when Mason snickered, ¡°what?¡± I asked.

    ¡°I don¡¯t care what anyone else thinks about us because you are the one I want to be with. No one else matters.¡± He answered with a shrug and Iughed.

    ¡°Rx,¡± I said amidstughter, ¡°she supported me, she¡¯s full in on our rtionship and she¡¯s just looking out for me.¡± I added and he stared at me for a while before shrugging.

    ¡°Great,¡± he answered, ¡°also, before I forget. There¡¯s a party and I¡¯m going to be attending it.¡± Mason informed me.

    I loved how he usually let me in on everything happening to him or everything he had ns on doing since we started our rtionship.

    ¡°Okay, have fun.¡± I shrugged. I¡¯m not a fan of parties and suggesting that I follow him to this one could only prove to be disastrous for me.

    ¡°Oh c¡¯mon,¡± Mason pouted and I raised an eyebrow, ¡°please juste with me? I don¡¯t want to be away from you tonight. I stayed away when Nicole was here and I can¡¯t do it again, I¡¯m only going because my friend is throwing it so please,e with me.¡± He begged.

    The glint in his eyes and how they joined in pleading for me to go with him made my heart flutter and I shrugged.

    ¡°Okay.¡± I finally said out loud and his eyes shone like a thousand stars.

    ¡°Okay?¡± He asked, still not sure if I¡¯d agreed to go with him.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll go with you but I don¡¯t have anything to wear.¡± I exined and he asked me not to worry and that he¡¯ll take care of everything.

    We continued eating silently with both of us focused on our phones and when we were done, we did the dishes together. I was on my way to my room when Mason pulled me back.

    ¡°Take a shower with me?¡± He asked and my eyes widened as I shook my head in disagreement, I wasn¡¯t ready to see Mason naked.

    ¡°No thank you.¡± I said and heughed as he turned to walk towards the bathroom before turning back to look at me and made a face.

    ¡°Oh my goodness, god, oh fuck.¡± He said, imitating and teasing me with the way I soundedst night and my cheeks felt hot.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I loved it.¡± He smiled and kissed me before telling me he¡¯d be fast with his bath and we could go shopping for my clothes together.

    Mason and I soon got ready and we both went to the clothing store just a few miles away from our house and I didn¡¯t expect shopping with Mason to be so fun but it was and I enjoyed every bit of it.

    We got some clothes for me and Mason brought out a bikini and despite my insistence, he made sure he got it. We walked to the makeup aisle and he raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°Uhh, what are you doing?¡± He asked and I picked up two shades of foundations as I turned to look at me.

    ¡°Getting makeup, you told me I looked sexy, remember?¡± I asked and heughed.

    ¡°Yeah but that¡¯s supposed to be for me, you don¡¯t need makeup, you¡¯re sexy just the way you are and adding makeup to it will make those guys stare at you till I don¡¯t know¡­ you be theirs?¡± He answered and Iughed.

    ¡°You¡¯re beautiful, you don¡¯t need it.¡± He walked towards me and kissed me long enough for me to change my mind about the makeup.

    ¡°You¡¯re mine and mine alone.¡± He imed and the butterflies in my stomach grew. I loved the fact that he showed his jealousy and is also possessive.

    We walked to a dessert shop and ordered Ice cream and cake which we ate delightfully.

    ¡°I have a long list of all the fun things I want to do.¡± He started as he took a scoop of his Icecream.

    ¡°It¡¯s called a bucket list and sadly, I don¡¯t have one.¡± I corrected and his eyes widened after he rolled them.

    ¡°Really?¡± He asked and I nodded, ¡°write one then!¡± He added and I shrugged as I told him I didn¡¯t have a pen and he left for a while.

    It was a stupid excuse because I had no idea what to write. Mason got back holding a pen and paper and handed it to me so I could make a list.

    I could only think of five things and I wrote that down. Mason wasn¡¯t exactly impressed but he did a good job hiding it although I noticed.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll add things to the list everyday.¡± He assured me and I smiled.

 Chapter 63

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We got back home and I picked up my phone to call my mum and inform her about the party I¡¯d be going to with Mason. She picked up on the third ring and I was nervous.

    I told her I¡¯ll be attending a college party with Mason and he¡¯s going to be there to protect me so she doesn¡¯t have to worry. I couldn¡¯t miss the excitement in her voice when she gave me the permission to go.

    ¡°They¡¯re getting along so well.¡± I heard my mum say from over the phone, she¡¯d probably thought she hung up but she hadn¡¯t and I smiled.

    ¡°Well?¡± Mason asked and I told him that she agreed. He doesn¡¯t care anyways, he¡¯d nned on taking me with him whether or not she gave her permission.

    I went back to my room toy out the dresses Mason picked out for me and I ended up going with the red short gown.

    It had tiny sleeves and it hung onto my body tightly. I matched it with a ck wedge heels and applied some lipgloss and soon, I was ready.

    Looking into the mirror, I was satisfied with my look as I let my hair drop and let it cover half of my face. Smiling to myself, I walked out of my room to see Mason ready too.

    He had a casual shirt on and a Jean trousers and he¡¯d matched it with one of his sneakers. He made little effort and yet he still looked handsome.

    ¡°You look absolutely gorgeous.¡± He smiled before giving me a peck on my cheeks and he ced his leather jacket over me to make me feel warm.

    ¡°I feel nervous, what if they don¡¯t like me?¡± I asked, voicing out my concern.

    I really am dying inside. This is the first time I would be meeting any of Mason¡¯s friends and I had no idea how I¡¯m going to act or make them think I¡¯m cool.

    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be,¡± he started as he tuck a chunk of my hair behind my ear, ¡°fuck them if they don¡¯t like you, you don¡¯t have to make them and you¡¯ll be by my side so I¡¯ll make sure everything is fine. Don¡¯t worry.¡± He assured me and I smiled.

    We drove to the party and Mason and I sang along to all of the songs that yed on the radio. We got to the house and I couldn¡¯t miss the ear splitting sound that came from the building.

    We made our way through the young adults and soon we were inside the house.

    ¡°Hey, Mason,¡± A guy called and they bumped shoulders as he turned to look at me, ¡°Hi.¡± He greeted me with a smile that I returned.

    ¡°Look at her one more time and I¡¯ll gouge your eyes out with my fingers.¡± Mason threatened and I smiled. I love his possessiveness.

    He introduced me to the guy whose name is Malik and he was the one throwing the party. I met Larry too, another of his friends who supplied the drinks and one otherdy, Rylie who is his female best friend.

    They all weed me with open arms and smiles and I became slightly less nervous. They were even more weing than I thought.

    We all walked to a spot and I sat with them as I listened to all of them taking turns to talk about Mason and telling me about Mason¡¯s embarrassing moment.

    ¡°Let¡¯s tell her about Lake High.¡± Rylie started, her face lighting up after a while of thinking and everyone cheered while I looked confused.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare, Rylie or I¡¯ll kill you.¡± Mason threatened and they allughed.

    ¡°What happened at Lake high?¡± I asked, turning to Mason andughing too while he pinched the bridge of his nose.

    ¡°You really don¡¯t want to know.¡± He answered and I turned to look at Rylie curiously who took that as her cue to talk.

    ¡°He got so fucking wasted that he peed his pants,¡± Rylie exined and I bursted outughing, ¡°the icing on the cake? He was about to talk to his crush.¡± She added and Mason sighed.

    I joined in tough at him as they told me more embarrassing stories of his. He couldn¡¯t take the mocking anymore and soon leaned in to kiss me.

    ¡°Enough of the talking, I¡¯m taking my girl to the dance floor.¡± He said as he pulled me up and the sound of ¡®my girl¡¯ gave me goosebumps.

    I¡¯m the worst dancer ever but with Mason everything came easily to me, he swayed me around and I moved as I grinded my body up against him.

    We were still dancing when one girl came to ask Mason to dance with her, he turned her down and she was so sad that it made me smile.

    ¡°Hey handsome,¡± another girl came, touching Mason¡¯s chest and ignoring the fact that I¡¯m there, ¡°what do you say we find a bedroom and make out there?¡± She asked and my mouth dropped open.

    ¡°No, thank you,¡± Mason answered as he held her hand and stopped her from touching him, ¡°I have a girlfriend.¡± He added and I blushed.

    I watched as the girl walked away dejected and Mason took me into one of the bedrooms he mentioned was Malik¡¯s

    We kissed as wended on the bed and it didn¡¯t take long for our clothes to be scattered all over the bedroom as Mason used his fingers and tongue on my pussy, making me scream in ecstasy.

    I wanted to return the favour so I stopped him and made my hair into a ponytail as I went down on him. I released his cock from his shorts and I gasped.

    He¡¯s really huge and there¡¯s no way that will fit.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

    Not stopping me, he watched as I continued what I was doing and without thinking, I took his dick in my mouth and sucked on it.

    I¡¯d wanted to take it deep inside my throat when I choked, I gagged and I almost threw up on his dick. Mason pulled my head and moved my mouth away from his cock beforeughing at me.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we can do the blowing some other time.¡± He said amidstughter before pulling me in to kiss me.

 Chapter 64

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We made out and it was the most beautiful feeling ever, justying on the bed in each other¡¯s arms as we spoke about things we liked and wanted to do.

    ¡°You know we can¡¯t stay here for too long? Malik and the rest would wonder where we are.¡± He said and Iughed as I stood.

    Picking up my clothes that were already scattered all over Malik¡¯s room, we went back to the party and they all decided to y a game.

    Whoever lost the arm wrestle will have to chunk down a ss of alcohol. I never expected that the party would be this fun.

    Most parties I attend always usually end up  boring but this was fun as I cheered for Mason to win while Rylie cheered for Malik since he¡¯s her boyfriend.

    While I was still cheering my phone vibrated and I picked it up to see Nicole¡¯s name boldly written on the screen.

    Excusing myself from the crowd, I went to a more secluded and silent ce so I wouldn¡¯t have to yell over all of the noise back there.

    ¡°Hey, Nicole,¡± I answered my call and brought my phone to my ear, ¡°I¡¯m actually at a party with Mason right now, can I give you a call back?¡± I asked and I heard Nicole sigh.

    ¡°Okay,¡± she agreed and I knew the reason her okay sounded like that, she knew I hated parties and this was just unexpected, ¡°have fun babe.¡± She added before hanging up and I smiled,

    Tucking my phone back in my pocket, I felt the urge to pee and it seemed as though my dder would burst if I didn¡¯t get to empty it.

    I had no idea where the bathroom was but I remembered Malik¡¯s room where Mason and I made out earlier and I slowly strode to the room.

    On getting to the room, I met a half drunk guy in there but I only shrugged and continued to walk towards the bathroom.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I¡¯ll just do what I want to do and leave, it¡¯ll be fine.¡± I braced myself up as I walked into the bathroom but the guy wouldn¡¯t stop following me and had almost entered with me.

    ¡°What the hell are you doing?¡± I asked, my eyes widening as I ced all of my strength on the door, stopping him from entering.

    I was starting to get terrified and my terror only grew when with one push I shifted away from the door and he made his way in.

    ¡°I like the way you dress, girl.¡± He slurred and his breath reeked of alcohol that made me scrunch my nose in disgust.

    ¡°You¡¯d better leave or I¡¯ll scream and trust me it¡¯s going to be really bad for you.¡± I threatened and silently prayed that my threat worked.

    The sound of his loud, cynicalughter made my stomach churn, he isn¡¯t moved by my threat. My heart was already beating so fast now and it seemed like it was going to jump right out of my chest.

    ¡°No one would hear you if you scream so you can do whatever you want.¡± He said, touching my hair but I moved away from him and I¡¯d wanted to leave when he yanked me back.

    He¡¯s right, no one would hear me over the loud music ying and if I screamed it¡¯ll all just be in vain.

    Stupid loud music.

    Pulling my arm hard, he pushed me against the wall and I winced when my back hit it. He ced one of his hands on the wall, preventing me from leaving.

    He leaned closer to me and I felt like throwing up on his face when he nted a kiss on my cheek. My stomach churned and the smell of alcohol was disgusting.

    He leaned into me again and this time he was going for my lips, without an idea what to do, I tilted my head to the side and clenched my lips together but just when he got near me, someone yanked him off.

    I was so happy when I saw Mason, his eyes blinded with rage and it zed with anger as he pulled the guy up and buried his fist on his face.

    The guy staggered but Mason was not done with him and he kicked him so hard in his rib. The guy groaned and spat out blood and my eyes widened when Mason wouldn¡¯t stop beating him up.

    ¡°Mason! Stop, please,¡± I begged, pulling him off the guy and hugging him, ¡°let¡¯s just go home.¡± My voice broke and it seemed as though I was about to cry.

    Mason stroked my hair lightly before pulling me out of the room and to his friends, he made up an excuse and they all understood. We said Goodnight with a smile before walking away from the party.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to see that,¡± he apologized and I smiled, ¡°the party was just a stupid idea, you didn¡¯t enjoy it right?¡± He asked and I turned to look at him.

    ¡°It was actually fun and in fact the best party I¡¯ve ever been to and the best part was the fact that I had to watch you beat that guy up.¡± I finished amidstughter and Mason joined in.

    ¡°You are extraordinary.¡± Heplimented before kissing me and we both walked to his car.

    Mason and I got home and after dinner we all sat to watch a movie, ¡°how was the party?¡± My mom asked and I told her everything about it.

    ¡°It was fun and I really enjoyed myself.¡± I confessed but I left out the details where Mason and I made out and also the drunkard, she doesn¡¯t need to know about that.

    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re finally allowing yourself to have fun.¡± My mummented and Iughed before Danny¡¯s groan made us turn to look at him, ¡°what?¡± My mum asked and he rolled his eyes.

    ¡°You know most of these teenagers have so much fun that they don¡¯t care where they have sex,¡± Danny exined and my eyes widened, st night, I heard loud moaning outside the window,¡± he continued, ¡°reallyte at night.¡± He added.

    My eyes darted to Mason and we both held in ourughter. Of course Danny was talking about us but he had no idea that we are the horny teenagers he was talking about.

    ¡°I¡¯m d our kids aren¡¯t like that.¡± He said and I almost choked on my spit as we all decided to focus on the movie.

    If only they knew.

 Chapter 65

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I called Nicole back and she told me she was going to tell me about everything when she gets here. It didn¡¯t take long for her to get to my ce.

    She had a fight with Ryan and I offered a bowl of Ice cream to make her feel better. It was a silly fight and neither Nicole or Ryan wanted to apologize to the other.

    ¡°How hard is it to just say sorry.¡± Nicole said with her mouth full of Ice cream and Iughed as I just rubbed her back. She likes it when I do that.

    ¡°Frankly, you could¡¯ve told him that you were sorry too,¡± I started and she shot me a re, ¡°but it¡¯s none of your fault.¡± I immediately added.

    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about me and Ryan anymore, tell me, did you enjoy your party?¡± She asked and my eyes lit up as I told her everything that happened at the party.

    I told her about Mason and I making out and how Mason beat up a guy that came onto me and her face fell.

    ¡°Now, I wish I was at the party, it sounds like so much fun,¡± she sighed and Iughed, ¡°by the way, how is it going with Mason?¡± She asked.

    ¡°Oh, it is heavenly and he¡¯s changed a lot, he¡¯s really romantic and adorable,¡± I started talking as Nicole only listened with keen interest, ¡°and now we¡¯re dating.¡± I finished and she gasped.

    We haven¡¯t really given our rtionship a title until that night when he called me his girlfriend, the fact that he called me that still gives me butterflies.

    ¡°Also, I really think I love him so much but I don¡¯t know, I haven¡¯t told him about that feeling yet because I don¡¯t want it to be too sudden and all of that.¡± I exined and Nicole agreed with me.

    ¡°That might just ruin things between you too,¡± she finally said as she stuffed her mouth with more Ice cream, ¡°I¡¯ve been meaning to ask, you both had sex yet or you¡¯re just doing the boring things?¡± She added and Iughed.

    I exined to her that I wasn¡¯t ready for the sex party yet but we¡¯ve done a lot more than kissing and Nicoleughed at me before seeing the sense in what I said.

    Nicole and I kept talking and we also put makeup on our face so we could take pictures together. The day seemed to be going by quickly and just at the moment we finished watching our movie, we heard a knock on the door.

    Going to get it, I met Ryan there and he told me that he was here to get Nicole, he finally apologized and they both left.

    Smiling, I was happy to see that they¡¯ve finally made up. Really, Ryan and Nicole can¡¯t do without each other, they barely even fight for a whole day.

    I went back inside after telling Nicole goodbye and I went up to Mason¡¯s room. He was ying video games but I was bored with no one to talk to.

    I would randomly press on one of the buttons on the console or walk in front of him so he wouldn¡¯t see what he was doing, it was all a ploy to ruin his game.

    Mason tried to teach me how to y the game but it was useless, I barely knew what I was doing and also wasn¡¯t in the mood to y any stupid video game.

    His attention is the only thing I wanted at that moment and I was happy when he stopped ying to focus on me.

    ¡°Nicole left already?¡± He asked and I nodded affirmatively, ¡°you know, I¡¯ve been thinking and now that you¡¯re here, we¡¯re going to do it.¡± He continued.

    My chest tightened and I thought he was talking about us having sex, I¡¯d wanted to talk when he pulled out the paper I wrote my bucket lists.

    ¡°We¡¯re adding skydiving and skinny dipping.¡± He finally finished and Iughed. I had no idea that he still had the paper with him.

    Mason is so romantic and I still find it difficult to believe that I¡¯d misjudged and think he was a jerk but for most months of us being together he was really a jerk to me.

    We added skydiving and skinny dipping to the list and Mason kissed me before lifting me off the ground and dumped me on the bed and I couldn¡¯t hold back myughter.

    He tickled me and Iughed so hard that my rib began to hurt. Stopping, heid beside me and we both fought to catch our breath as weid on the bed.

    He wrapped his arms around me and pulled me in as he spooned me. Every moment with Mason was all shades of amazing and beautiful.

    ¡°It¡¯s just so sad that our parents are married,¡± I started and Mason sighed, ¡°I really like what we have going on and I¡¯m so happy with you.¡± I added.

    ¡°I¡¯m happy with you too,¡± he spoke as he held me tighter, ¡°I have an idea. We could break our parents up so we can stay together.¡± He added and I immediately turned to look at him as I yfully tapped his shoulder.

    ¡°We can¡¯t possibly do that, they are so happy together and Danny loves my mum so much I have never seen her that happy too.¡± I protested and Masonughed.

    ¡°It was just a joke, Ava,¡± he let out amidstughter and I calmed down, ¡°I¡¯m not that bad a person, I can never do something that horrible.¡± He added and I nodded as he pulled me back into him.

    His breath on my face felt like heaven, it was the most beautiful thing ever. I traced my finger on his chest as if I was drawing something.

    ¡°I like you so much and I don¡¯t care about anything or anyone else.¡± He confessed, the way he said it made my heart flutter.

    ¡°I really do like you too.¡± I replied. I don¡¯t really like him, I¡¯m head over heels in love with him but I didn¡¯t want to tell him that just yet.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    He lifted my gaze to meet him and his lips imed mine, his lips were so supple that anytime they were on mine I¡¯m always left yearning for more.

    He broke the kiss and looked at me with a raised eyebrow, ¡°what do we do now?¡± He asked.

 Chapter 66

    Ava¡¯s POV

    His hand was rough on my skin and yet so gentle, he stood tall and straight like a towering stride. His arm was bare and silky with a little bit of hair, I looked up at him as I took in his tempting attractive male physique.

    Why does he look so handsome?

    His face was shiny and his lips called out to me, not thinking twice, I closed my eyes when Mason¡¯s lips imed mine.

    He has the softest lips and his lips on mine was the collision I didn¡¯t know I needed, the kiss started off soft and gentle but soon became rough.

    He¡¯d wanted to break the kiss when I mmed my lips back on his. Kissing him roughly with hunger I had no idea I was holding back and he responded with every ounce of his own hunger.

    His hair fell across his face and I groaned as I moved it, stopping it from interrupting the moment we¡¯re having.

    He moved his lips from mine and traced it down my neck and sucked on it hungrily but sensuously as his fingers trailed my temper.

    Nervously, I ran my fingers through his hair and down his back as I wed on it. I trailed my fingers through his chest and my hand soon fell on his hard cock.

    Just when I was about to pull off his boxers so I could see things for myself, I jerked and my eyes snapped open at once.

    It was a dream.

    I mentally pped myself as my eyes fell on Mason¡¯s naked chest and I looked up to see him staring at me with a sense of amusement.

    Oh No, how long has he been staring at me?

    ¡°So, I heard you moan,¡± he started and I snapped my eyes shut in frustration. There¡¯s no way in hell that I moaned out loudly.

    ¡°Did you just have a wet dream with me involved?¡± He asked and I shook my head negatively.

    ¡°No,¡± I answered firmly, ¡°now get out of my room before our parents wake up.¡± I added but he didn¡¯t even flinch.

    ¡°Are you sweating because of the wet dream?¡± He asked as he faked a gasp and I rolled my eyes, ¡°you know, I had to wipe a drool from the side of your mouth.¡± He added.

    I could feel my cheeks burning hot with embarrassment and at some point, I prayed for the ground to just open up and swallow me whole and probably spit me out back when I¡¯m done drowning in my embarrassment.

    Laughing, Mason pulled me closer to him and nted a kiss on my forehead, he¡¯d wanted to kiss my lips when I moved my head away.

    He raised an eyebrow and I just knew what the question is, ¡°Morning breath.¡± I answered his unasked questions and he smiled.

    ¡°I don¡¯t care about that,¡± he replied, ¡°nowe here.¡± He added before pulling me closer to him again making me release a slight chuckle as he smacked his lips on mine.

    We were still kissing when he pulled my top off above my head and took my breast in his mouth, the sensation it sent through my body made me let out a moan.

    The knock on the door brought us back to our right mind and my mum¡¯s voice followed. She was calling to inform me that breakfast is ready.

    ¡°Okay mom, you can leave, I¡¯ll join you at the table.¡± I called back to her but she insisted oning into my room to see me.

    Picking up Mason¡¯s clothes, I threw it at him as I forced him to put them on and when he was done he jumped out of the window while I put my top back on.

    ¡°Good Morning mom.¡± I greeted with a smile when I opened the door and she smiled back.

    ¡°Good Morning,¡± my mother replied and it seemed as though she was holding back herughter, ¡°Ava, it seems like you had the perfect night.¡± She added and I raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°Err, what do you mean, mom?¡± I asked before mentally pping myself about the fact that I¡¯ve been repeating ¡®mom¡¯ too much.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°I heard moans on my way to the kitchen and that was why I stopped to knock.¡± She exined and I bursted outughing.

    ¡°I just woke up, what are you talking about?¡± I answered,ughing and coughing at the same time. I was really nervous.

    Chuckling, she pointed to my bed and I looked back to see how scattered it was, ¡°your face too, it¡¯s really red.¡± She pointed out and I closed my eyes in utter embarrassment.

    ¡°Next time, let him use the door instead of the window,¡± She said and I nodded rapidly with a smile, ¡°by the way, have you seen Mason today?¡± She asked and I shook my head negatively before she shrugged and left.

    If only she knew the boy she was talking about using the door instead of the window was Mason.

    Breakfast was silent and a little bit fast too, Mason and I would steal nces at each other before trying our best not tough.

    ¡°I need to get to the library.¡± I informed them after breakfast and Danny offered to drive me but Mason refused and said he was going to drive me himself.

    ¡°I wonder how you both became this close when you initially hated each other.¡± Dannymented and I smiled.

    ¡°That¡¯s the power of Family.¡± My mum replied before kissing Danny and they both got back to their food.

    ¡°Next time, be out of my room by 5am.¡± I told Mason and hit his chest lightly when we got into his car and heughed.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be out by 6 and no one would know since the door would be locked.¡± He replied.

    I asked if he didn¡¯t break any of his bones when he jumped out of the window with such urgency and he flexed his muscles causing me to smile.

    We got to the library and I¡¯d told Mason to leave and pick me upter but he refused and insisted on joining me. I checked out the textbooks I needed while Mason read a story book.

    While I was studying, a guy dropped a piece of paper on my table and before I could get a chance Mason picked it up and I could see him scrunch his nose up in disgust and anger.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to punch him.¡± He affirmed but I refused and asked that we just leave and all Mason could talk about was how he¡¯d be following me everywhere I go.

    ¡°Jealous much?¡± I asked amidstughter, ¡°let¡¯s just go grab lunch.¡±

 Chapter 67

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We got homete,ughing about how Mason lost a game of scrabble during his second year in college, ¡°You really are dumb.¡± Imented amidstughter and he shot me re.

    ¡°You can¡¯t me me, I tried my best but that game isplicated.¡± He shot back at me in his defense.

    Our parents were in the sitting room when we got home and they called us over for an important announcement.

    I passed my mum and Danny the c I forced Mason to get for them and they both gave me a smile that made me turn to look at Mason with a look that says ¡®I¡¯m the important child¡¯ and he rolled his eyes.

    The excitement on my mum¡¯s face made my stomach churn. I always love seeing her happy but this was just over the edge and I really am happy for her but some news I¡¯m not expecting her to share.

    ¡°Oh God, please do not give us pregnancy news,¡± I started, ¡°you¡¯re not pregnant right?¡± I added and Danny chuckled.

    ¡°So what if she¡¯s pregnant?¡± He asked and I groaned.

    ¡°Are you kidding me? Mason is already a lot to handle adding another child would make me wish for death so please.¡± I exined and Mason shot me a death re while I only pouted.

    ¡°No, Ava. I¡¯m not pregnant,¡± my mother rified and I let out a sigh of relief, ¡°and I don¡¯t n on getting pregnant anytime soon because I want to enjoy my husband.¡± She added.

    The wink Danny and my mum shared made Mason and I let out a choking and gagging sound as we both asked them to carry on with their news instead of flirting with each other in front of us.

    ¡°The surprise is for you, Ava.¡± My mum finally said and I was excited for a while before whatever the surprise might be clicked.

    ¡°If this is about the time I asked to live in the dorm then you shouldn¡¯t bother because I don¡¯t want to go there anymore.¡± I let out with a pout and Mason agreed while my mum rolled her eyes as she massaged her head.

    ¡°No, it is not about the dorm and maybe you¡¯ll get to know what it is if you stop cutting me off and let me finish.¡± She answered in a yell that made me jump.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I mouthed and she rolled her eyes again as she rested her back on the couch, giving up on telling me about the surprise, ¡°what¡¯s the surprise?¡± I asked, hoping that would make her talk but it didn¡¯t.

    ¡°Well, your mum told me about how badly you¡¯ve always wanted a car for yourself.¡± Danny started and my heart began to race.

    I could hear my heart pounding in my chest as I braced myself up to get through the rest of the newsing.

    ¡°So, I got you a car.¡± He finished and I shrieked as I threw myself at him. I¡¯ve always wanted a car and this was like a dreame true for me.

    Turning to look at Mason, I thought he was going to be happy for me but instead he only looked at me angrily but I shrugged him off.

    ¡°Mason, would you please take me for a midnight drive?¡± I asked but he refused before stomping out of the sitting room to his room.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll take you.¡± Danny offered as he stood and I followed him out. I couldn¡¯t wait to get a ride in my new car.

    The ride with Danny was fun, the smell of fresh air, the cold night breeze that brushed our face as we drove. We stopped to get barbecue at a ce that was still open and Danny even let me have a sip of his tequ.

    My throat burned and I thought tequs were supposed to be all choctey and sweet but I was wrong.

    ¡°We need to get you a driver to teach you how to drive so you¡¯ll be eligible for your drivers license.¡± Danny started and I told him not to worry about that and that Mason would teach me.

    He agreed with me and we both went back home, when we got home Danny tried to act right and get the smell of alcohol out of him.

    ¡°Promise me something Ava,¡± he started and I raised an eyebrow, ¡°that you won¡¯t tell your mum I gave you some of my drink, you know you¡¯re not 21 yet?¡± He added and I nodded.

    ¡°I got you Danny, I won¡¯t tell her.¡± I smiled and he nodded.

    ¡°One more thing, don¡¯t tell her I drank and drove. Let it be a secret between us, father and daughter.¡± He added and Iughed as we both got out of the car.

    Taking a long stare at my car after Danny had gone inside, I brought out my phone to send a text to Mason to meet me in front of the house.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I waited for his reply and I checked my text again to see that he¡¯d read the text and had decided not to reply to me.

    Giving up on waiting for him outside, I went up to his room to knock on his door. I could hear him ying his usual loud music but I didn¡¯t mind.

    ¡°Mason!¡± I called over and over again but he didn¡¯t answer me and he only increased the volume of his music making my voice get lost in the sounds.

    Pissed, I walked to my room to sleep but some part of me was hoping that he woulde to my room and exin to me why he didn¡¯t reply to my text or heed to my calls.

    Tossing and turning on my bed, I looked out of the window but he was nowhere outside. Closing my eyes, I silently prayed that he woulde around at midnight since that was the time he usually gets toe into my room.

 Chapter 68

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I waited for Mason all night but he never came into my room like he used to. Groaning, I stood up from the bed to get ready for the day.

    I picked up my phone to send another text to Mason and just likest night, he only read it and didn¡¯t reply. Frustrated, I tossed my phone back on the bed as I made my way to the bathroom to brush my teeth.

    Picking out afortable outfit, I made my way down the stairs since my mom already informed me that breakfast was ready.

    Breakfast was silent and agonizing and I was grateful that neither one of our parents mentioned anything about us not talking to each other, they only stared at us suspiciously.

    After Breakfast, Mason stood to leave the dining room and I stood at once too, sprinting as fast as I could. I made sure I got to the door before him and blocked the entrance.

    ¡°Why are you being such a jerk?¡± I asked, fuming and I just knew that my face would be red with anger and fury.

    Why is he being such a jerk? Giving me a cold shoulder for a reason I had no idea about.

    ¡°Talk to me and stop being silent, you¡­.¡± I was still talking when he pulled me away from the door softly and walked inside.

    I¡¯d wanted to follow him but he mmed the door in my face just when I was about to enter and I heard the locking sound click.

    Angry and frustrated, I hissed as I walked away from his door and back down the stairs. A tingling sixth sense told me that he was only mad at me because of the car Danny got me.

    But, why is he mad at me for having a car when he had one himself?

    ¡°Hey Danny,¡± I called and he dropped the remote he had with him as he turned to look at me, ¡°can you please drop me off at Nicole¡¯s?¡± I asked and without hesitation he sprung up.

    The drive to Nicole¡¯s house was silent and I just didn¡¯t feel like talking to anyone but my best friend at the moment.

    We got there and I asked that Danny join me so I would be able to formally introduce him to Nicole. He answered and after introducing them, he drove off.

    ¡°Oh my gosh!¡± Nicole gushed, swooning and gawking at Danny as he drove away, ¡°he is smoking hot for his age!¡± She added and I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°Now I know where Mason got the hotness from, it¡¯s in the goddamn genes.¡± She finally finished and not interested in what she had to say about Danny, we both went inside.

    We had cookies and soon got to talking. I asked how she was able to finish the fight between them and she told me they had makeup sex and everything was fine.

    ¡°So, well, we decided to try something new and it was so fucking worth it. My hands tied behind my back and I was blindfolded, the anticipation was killing and you know what¡¯s more better than sex?¡± She asked and I raised an eyebrow.

    Does Nicole really have something better than sex? ¡°What?¡± I asked.

    ¡°The anticipation.¡± She answered before going into details of all the things they did while she had her ¡®bondage sex¡¯.

    It sounded like fun but I had no idea if it was something I was going to want to try.

    ¡°You know what, you won¡¯t get it. When you and Mason starts fucking then you¡¯ll know and give me all the full deets.¡± She said amidstughter and I furrowed my eyebrow.

    ¡°Don¡¯t talk about him or even mention his name.¡± I cautioned and Nicole was surprised, she asked if we fought and I told her everything that happenedst night.

    ¡°First of all, congrattions on the car! We can finally go on a road trip,¡± she started, ¡°What if he isn¡¯t really jealous about your new car?¡± She asked and I raised an eyebrow.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Why then will he be acting like such a dune head? I don¡¯t even know if that¡¯s a word.¡± I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°Probably because you wouldn¡¯t be needing his help getting rides anymore since you now have your own car.¡± She exined and even though it made sense, I still couldn¡¯t bring myself to believe it.

    ¡°There¡¯s no way he¡¯ll be jealous about something like that.¡± I replied and she only shrugged as she asked me to talk to him about it when I got home.

    Finally dropping the fight between Mason¡¯s and I, Nicole and I started talking about the courses we would be dropping by the time we get back to school next week.

    ¡°I just want to start taking half the sses you take,¡± she exined, ¡°is Mason done with school?¡± She asked and I shook my head.

    ¡°He¡¯s in his final year in college so he doesn¡¯t take many sses.¡± I answered as I kept munching on the cookie with me.

    It started gettingte and I went back home to see dinner ready, we all ate and when Mason still wouldn¡¯t talk to me after dinner, I followed him into his room despite his refusal.

    ¡°Why are you being like this?¡± I asked, my voice threatening to break, ¡°is this it? Is this how we go back to being strangers because I really don¡¯t want that.¡± I added and I saw his shoulders rx.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he apologized as he pulled me closer to him, ¡°it¡¯s just, you¡¯ve gotten your own car now and won¡¯t be needing my help so much anymore.¡± He added and Iughed.

    ¡°Oh c¡¯mon, I would be needing tons of rides and I¡¯d rather ask you than anyone else. Besides, you¡¯ll be the one to teach me how to drive so you don¡¯t have to worry about that.¡± I said amidstughter.

    ¡°Well, my mom left my dad and I for someone else, you learn to drive now and would probably just drive off to somewhere very far away and I don¡¯t want that, I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do if that happens.¡± He exined and my heart ached for him.

    ¡°You don¡¯t worry about that, I¡¯m never going to leave you. I love it here with you, you¡¯re my everything.¡± I assured him and he smiled as he leaned in to kiss me.

    ¡°Also, I missed you so much, can I sleep here tonight?¡± I asked and he nodded with a smile.

    We both walked to the bed and Mason was the big spoon. The way he held me made me feel safe and his breath on my neck was like the assurance I needed that he¡¯d always be here.

    Damn, I really do love him.

 Chapter 69

    Ava¡¯s POVContent ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    The week went by quickly and it¡¯s now Saturday, I got ready to go with Mason to the arcade he¡¯d invited me to. I¡¯d be meeting with his friends and I couldn¡¯t wait to have fun with him.

    We got there and it seemed unbelievable to Mason that I beat him at a game he thought he was the best in. His friends made fun of him and I joined them for a little while.

    Turning, I saw him pouting and I onlyughed as I stood on my tiptoe to kiss him to make him feel better. Neither of his friends knew I was his stepsister or it would¡¯ve been really awkward.

    ¡°Going to get some Cheetos, who¡¯s interested?¡± Rylie announced and everyone including I was interested and I just followed her to get it instead.

    The boys went to y their football game while Rylie and I walked down to the vending machine as we waited for our turn.

    ¡°You know, I¡¯ve never seen him this happy in years.¡± Rylie¡¯s voice jolted me out of a thought I had no idea I was in.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked,ughing nervously.

    ¡°I just love the fact that you¡¯re his girlfriend, you really bring out the best in him. He¡¯s happier than usual.¡± She exined and I smiled as I looked over to see Mason enjoying his game.

    ¡°He¡¯s never a fan of rtionships so mostly, he just fucks the girls and let them go, he says rtionships areplicated but I¡¯m d you managed to change his mind because you, my dear, are the first girl he would date and would even introduce personally to his friends.¡± Sheughed and I joined in.

    The butterflies in my stomach grew and my cheeks were burning, I really am the first girl Mason would ever be in a serious rtionship with.

    ¡°Really?¡± I coughed and she nodded.

    ¡°Yes, he must really love you.¡± She replied and I blushed.

    ¡°And I love him too, I¡¯m just waiting for the perfect time to tell him.¡± I responded and when we were done with our conversation we went back to the boys.

    Dragging Mason away from his friends, I pulled him to the photo booth and asked that we take pictures together.

    After a while of refusing, he finally agreed and we took so many cute shots with funny, goofy and cute poses.

    ¡°This is really cute,¡± Imented and heughed as he agreed with me, ¡°This one too.¡± I added.

    The sound of hisughter was like music to my ears, hearing himugh, seeing him have fun was therapeutic and it¡¯s just sad that school has to resume.

    ¡°Mason,¡± I called, taking his hand in mine and he lifted his gaze to meet mine, ¡°I know you know how busy I can get during school period but I just want you to know that I love you and will always make time for you.¡± I confessed and he smiled.

    ¡°I know that.¡± He responded before kissing me. It didn¡¯t take long for the pace of the kiss to get faster than it was before.

    His fingers lightly pulled my sleeve off while his other hand made its way underneath my dress and with one finger he slid my panties to the side.

    I was already dripping wet and I just wanted to have him right there and then. Still kissing while Mason fucked my mouth like he owned it because frankly, he really did own it.

    Tracing my finger up his chest, I had no idea what to do but I fumbled with his trousers when Malik¡¯s voice brought us to order.

    ¡°You both bettere out and not be having sex in there, a lot of people are waiting to take pictures too!¡± He called and we stopped what we were doing.

    For a moment, I¡¯d forgotten we were still in the Photo Booth, I looked at the mirror in there and my hair was messy, my cheeks red and my lips also slightly red with a hickey on my neck.

    Embarrassed, I hid behind Mason as we both walked out with the pictures still with us and I couldn¡¯t really bring myself to face the crowd waiting to take their pictures.

    Rylie and I exchanged contacts before they all finally left. Neither of us wanted the night to end so we decided to see a movie that night.

    I picked out a romanticedy and we got our tickets as we went in, Mason picked the darkest spot and although the movie was interesting neither of us were paying attention.

    ¡°Oh fuck.¡± A slight moan escaped my lips the moment Mason¡¯s tongue grazed my clit and I immediately mmed my palm on my mouth.

    How is he able to do that? No wonder he picked this spot.

    My toe curled and I held tightly onto the chair for support as not only his tongue was fucking me but his fingers too.

    My eyes rolled and it seemed as though I was going to pass out from intense orgasm, the feeling stopped when Mason also stopped.

    ¡°W.. why did you stop?¡± I whispered with my eyes wide. I really didn¡¯t want this to end.

    ¡°Because we might end up having sex and you¡¯re not ready.¡± He whispered back before mming his lips on mine and I could taste my juice on his lips.

    His tongue frolicked around my mouth before leaving as he traced it down my neck, giving it a slight bite that made another moan leave my mouth.

    His palm was already underneath my clothes and they fondled my breasts as he kissed and licked me all over. My nipples aroused to the stimtion.

    The movie was soon over, the lights came back on and we stopped at once. We got to the car and had another make out session before finally getting home.

    The house was silent and it was easy to tell that our parents were fast asleep. It waste already.

    Tired, I followed Mason into his room.

 Chapter 70

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Groaning, I turned on the bed as I tried to pull away from Mason but he was holding me so tightly. I heard my mother giggling and saw her leave.

    Shocked and frightened, I jumped out of bed as I shook Mason awake. He rubbed his eyes sleepily as he asked me what the matter was and why I woke him up so hastily.

    ¡°My mom, she just left. She saw us together,¡± I said, running my fingers through my hair as I tried to stand, ¡°oh my god, oh my god.¡± I panicked.

    ¡°Calm down, I¡¯m sure she didn¡¯t suspect a thing.¡± Mason assured me and my eyes widened.

    How could he be so calm when I¡¯m over here trying my best not to shit my pants.

    ¡°What do you mean calm down?¡± I snapped at him but he understood that I was only scared, ¡°she just saw us cuddling.¡± I added.

    Mason stood and made his way closer to me, straightening my hair with his fingers, he kissed my forehead and that made me rx as he asked me to go to my room.

    Scared, my feet padded out of his room as fast as I could and I soon got to my room. Shutting the door, I rested my back on the door as I closed my eyes tightly.

    What if she saw something else? What if she asks me about it, what will I tell her?

    Shaking the thoughts out of my head, I went straight to the bathroom to get ready for breakfast since I already knew that that was what she probably wanted to call us for.

    Dinner was a little bit silent and I calmed down when I realized that my mother didn¡¯t think Mason and I cuddling up together was weird.

    ¡°You really should see this,¡± my mother started as she picked up her phone and handed it to Danny who almost choked on his drink.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t they just cute?¡± She cooed but Danny didn¡¯t see the picture the way she saw it.

    I had no idea that there was even a picture.

    ¡°Why are they like that?¡± He asked my mother after clearing his throat before his eyes darted towards my direction.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s really not a big deal,¡± I answered as I tried to search for the right lie to tell, ¡°I had a nightmare and Mason was just helping me through it.¡± I lied before mentally pping myself.

    Really? A nightmare? Would he really believe that?

    ¡°Like that?¡± He asked, voicing out my doubts and I nodded innocently pretending like there was no other motive behind me spending the night with Mason.

    ¡°He¡¯s always helped me through it on the ind and that was kinda how we got close.¡± I smiled as I searched his eyes.

    Luckily, he believed me and only shrugged, understanding why Mason and I were in that position.

    Our parents told us that we¡¯d be having dinner with a business associate of theirs tonight and they wanted to introduce us to their friends.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Handing me his credit card, Danny asked me to go shopping for a new dress and I took it happily as Mason drove me to the store in my new car.

    He would asionally tell me what some of the things in the car were for as we drove.

    We got there and I picked out a blue knee length dress. I¡¯d tried almost everything they had and that was the only one that took my interest.

    Paying for the dress, we drove off to a sauna and Mason and I got a full body massage, it was soforting and fun having to experience all these things with Mason.

    He took me to the Salon and I had my hair and makeup done before finally driving back home. I wished I didn¡¯t have to go to dinner but I had to.

    We went to our separate rooms to get dressed and my phone chimed. It was a text from my mum and it contained the address with her telling us not to bete.

    I finished dressing up and walked down the stairs to see Mason already waiting for me. He had a blue tux on too and he looked absolutely sexy.

    ¡°You look gorgeous.¡± Hemented when I got to him, his mouth opened and I smiled as I told him thanks.

    ¡°I really just want to cancel this dinner and make love to you all night.¡± He moaned in my ear and Iughed.

    Turning me around, he wore a ne for me and told me that it was a gift. Happy, I threw myself at him and kissed.

    He had lipstick smear on his lip and I was grateful I noticed it before we got out or it would¡¯ve been really embarrassing if he showed up at dinner with the same shade of lipstick that I have on.

    ¡°Ava! You look absolutely beautiful!¡± My mother shrieked as she hugged me and Danny agreed.

    They introduced us to their associate who also brought their daughter with them. We all sat at the same table and discussed a lot of things.

    They talked about my school, Masonst year in college and how he¡¯s turned into a man and they also discussed their daughter too.

    Dinner was soon over and the parents decided to go sit at another table to probably talk about their businesses.

    ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Ava and you look¡­.¡± I was trying to start up a conversation with her when she just walked past me like nothing happened and walked directly to Mason.

    I felt bad but I was happy when Mason ignored her all through the night till it was time to leave. I was grateful and couldn¡¯t wait to just go home.

    ¡°Do you think I can have your number?¡± The girl asked as she flirtatiously twirled her hair between her fingers and I gagged.

    Not paying her any heed, Mason walked past her and covered with his jacket. I blushed a little and my stomach gurgled with the butterflies in it.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡± He said, taking my hand in his and it took all me to not stick my tongue out at the girl.

 Chapter 71

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We walked outside with our parents and they¡¯d already decided that they would be spending the night at a hotel.

    Mason and I drove home, I feltfortable in his jacket and we both went to our separate rooms to change out of our clothes.

    We finally decided to see a movie and it was cozy as weid in each other¡¯s arms until the characters in the movie started kissing.

    I started feeling hot from within, my cheeks were burning and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that I was blushing hard from watching the characters in the movie get intense with each other.

    ¡°Can we¡­ Can we change the movie?¡± I stammered, my voice faltering and Mason smiled as he kissed my cheek and moved a chunk of hair away from my face.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been meaning to kiss you all night.¡± He whispered and I moaned as I threw my head back.

    If he wanted to kiss me then why hasn¡¯t he done it.

    ¡°Then just shut up and kiss me and stop acting like a gentle¡­¡± I was still talking when his lips imed mine.

    He started kissing me and it started off soft, slow and gentle until it was rapid, Mason kissed me hungrily and I returned with a hunger of my own matching his energy.

    The kiss got intense and we both decided to take it to the bedroom, picking me off the floor, he took me in his arms with his lips still on mine as we got to his room.

    Kicking the door closed with his legs, he ced me on the bed and continued kissing me hungrily.

    ¡°It has always been the perfect size.¡± He breathed bringing his mouth closer to my breast, rubbing his tongue on my nipples before hungrily taking in my boobs.

    It wasn¡¯t long before a needy moan filled the room as Mason and I kept kissing and I was breathing heavily. Asides for my loud moans, I could also hear our heartbeat loudly.

    God, I really didn¡¯t want this to stop anytime soon.

    He kissed my neck and gave it a slight bite that made my pussy throb and I felt a slight drip between my legs, that act left me yearning for me.

    I tugged on the sheets when he got lower and kissed my navel. I closed my eyes as I felt his wet tongue on my equally wet cunt.

    Licking off all the juice that my pussy produced till there was none, ¡°oh god!¡± I moaned. This wasn¡¯t the first time he¡¯d eat me out but something about this one was different.

    Mason twirled his fingers inside me and also licked my dripping juice, he moved to my clit, rubbing it with his hand and licking it with his tongue.

    He ate me out like he was hungry. Unable to take it anymore, I sat up with my legs shaking, I threw my head back and moaned out loudly.

    He responded to my moans with an even intense finger and tongue trick before finally moving back up to kiss me. I could taste myself on his lips.

    ¡°You taste absolutely delicious, Ava.¡± He whispered into my ear and in one swift, I turned him over.

    He¡¯s done so much satisfying me and I just wanted to return the favour. Fumbling with his belt, I yanked his trousers off till he was naked.

    I didn¡¯t let him know but I¡¯ve been watching a little something on how to give a good blow job.

    I rubbed his cock slowly in my palm before spitting on it to make it moisturized, Mason threw his head back and I saw as his eyes closed tightly when I took his hard member in my mouth.

    I took it in deeply and a moan escaped his mouth and I felt proud of myself. I let out a gag and he immediately pulled his cock away from my mouth.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± He asked and I nodded, the tears dropping freely from having to take all of Mason¡¯s length in my mouth.

    I¡¯d wanted to ask him how I did but I also didn¡¯t want to ruin the moment, I made him moan and that was more than enough.

    ¡°We should go to bed.¡± He affirmed but I still wanted more, I haven¡¯t had enough of all these and I needed to get the pleasure off.

    Not listening, I got on top of him and grinded my naked vagina on his dick as I kept kissing him hungrily.

    All of Mason¡¯s efforts to stop me proved futile as I was still not satisfied. Not trying to fight it anymore, he joined in before pulling me away from him.

    ¡°If we don¡¯t stop now we¡¯ll eventually have sex, I know you¡¯re a virgin and I also know that you¡¯re not ready for it yet,¡± he started, talking rapidly.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to do this now and wake up tomorrow morning filled with regret so please, let¡¯s just stop now.¡± He begged and I rolled my eyes at him as I threw myself at him again.

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t ready then, but I¡¯m sure as hell that I¡¯m ready for this now, Mason, please.¡± I pleaded before kissing him again.

    cing his weight on me, I felt his dick enter my pussy.

    ¡°Ahh,¡± I let out a painful  pleasurable shout. It was even more painful than I¡¯d imagined it, the feeling was a mixture of sensations.

    ¡°Do you want me to stop? Are you in pain?¡± He asked, looking worried.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°No!¡± I almost yelled. ¡°Just shut up and continue, please?¡± I pleaded and the look I gave him made him continue the stroke slowly and gently, I wanted him to go faster, I whispered in his ear ¡°Faster.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re so tight.¡± He said. And like I¡¯d unlocked a whole new level with my demand, Mason increased his pace, pounding into me as I rolled my eyes in uncontroble pleasure.

    I didn¡¯t think I would ever moan loudly but I did and didn¡¯t care if anyone else in the house heard us.

    My first time was painful but it wasn¡¯t as bad as I¡¯d imagined it to be. Mason made sure that I forgot about the pain and only enjoyed the pleasure it came with.

    I¡¯d just lost my virginity and I couldn¡¯t be happier that Mason took it.

    So what if he¡¯s my stepbrother?

 Chapter 72

    Ava¡¯s POV

    My phone chimed and I woke up to a text from my mom. She had told me that they¡¯d be hometer in the day and she¡¯d asked that I make breakfast for them.

    The memories of the sex I had with Masonst night came gushing at me and my cheeks suddenly felt hot as I tried to move but I was still very sore.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    Mason noticed this and had only pulled me closer to him before moving the hair that fell on my face to the side of my ear and kissed my cheek and forehead.

    He got up from the bed and went straight to the bathroom to run a hot water bath for me. It felt so rxing, especially having Mason take my bath for me.

    This treatment was one that I prayed would never end because it was just so heavenly. Finishing with my bath, I rummaged through my closet and picked out a dress.

    I got downstairs to find the table set already and Mason had already made breakfast, my cheeks flushed and my heart fluttered as he pulled out the chair for me to sit.

    We both ate in silence and I picked up my phone to check the time. I didn¡¯t want to leave the house but I had a ss today that I couldn¡¯t possibly miss.

    When we were done eating, we both got out and Mason drove me to school.

    ¡°Hey,¡± he called just when I was about to open the door and get out. I¡¯d thought of every possible thing he might want to say at that moment.

    ¡°I¡¯ll pick you up after school today, okay?¡± He promised before kissing me on my forehead and my heart cracked a little.

    I was expecting an ¡°I love you¡± but I knew that we were just taking things slow and I shouldn¡¯t be jumping into conclusions like this.

    Submitting my project assignment, the professor organized a test and I hated it but I knew that I was going to pass because I studied prior to today.

    ¡°I hate that test and I¡¯m pretty sure I¡¯ll fail it,¡± Nicole groaned but I only smiled as I took a bite of my lunch, ¡°it¡¯s really horrible.¡± She added before raising an eyebrow at me.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked, snapping at her with my mouth full of food but she only bursted outughing which I didn¡¯t understand.

    ¡°Something about you is different,¡± she pointed out and I dropped my food as I also raised a brow at her, ¡°you¡¯re glowing and also smiling differently, what¡¯s going on?¡± She added and I shook my head.

    ¡°Nothing is going on, Nicole. It¡¯s just so nice out and the weather is so peaceful.¡± I answered as I took in a deep breath but my best friend wasn¡¯t having it.

    ¡°You could¡¯ve lied to anyone else but definitely not me,¡± she snickered before her eyes widened, ¡°there¡¯s no way in hell!¡± She shouted, making me jump.

    ¡°What?!¡± I yelled back at her.

    ¡°You finally gotid! Innocent Ava is no longer a virgin!¡± Sheughed and I choked.

    I¡¯d wanted to lie to her but nothing I nned to say made any sense and there was no use lying to her so I eventually told her everything.

    Nicole as usual asked for the full details and I told her everything that I could from how painful it was to how pleasurable and toe curling it became.

    ¡°I knew you¡¯d enjoy it, you naughty girl.¡± She taunted amidstughs and smiles and I only sighed, ¡°what¡¯s wrong?¡± She asked.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, I just want to tell him that I love him,¡± I started, ¡°you know, confess my feelings to him and all that? I really want to do it soon but I have no idea how.¡± I exined my dilemma to my best friend.

    Nicole onlyughed as she tried toe up with lots of romantic and sexy ways for me to be able to finally confess my feelings to Mason.

    ¡°I¡¯ll rmend you get drunk, you¡¯ll be able to say anything when you¡¯re drunk. You know being drunkes with this boldness¡­¡± Nicole was still exining when I shook my head.

    ¡°That would only mean that the alcohol is what¡¯s talking and not me.¡± I protested and she agreed as we both went back to thinking of ways to confess my feelings.

    The day went by quickly and it was soon evening when Mason came to pick me up from school as promised.

    We both went for a drive and I told him about how my day at school went and the impromptu test we had.

    ¡°I just know you¡¯ll ace it,¡± he affirmed and Iughed, ¡°wanna try to drive?¡± He asked and I nodded my head positively.

    ¡°So, what do I do?¡± I asked as I held the steering wheel and before he said anything he leaned in to kiss me before telling me what and what not to do while driving.

    The drive and the instructions were going smoothly until I bumped into something unexpectedly, it just ran into the road and I had no idea what it was.

    ¡°Please tell me I didn¡¯t just kill someone.¡± I gasped, panicking as Mason got out of the car to check what I¡¯d hit.

    ¡°Oh god please,¡± I prayed silently, ¡°did I kill someone?¡± I asked when he got back and the shaking of his head made my heart at ease.

    ¡°You know what? We can continue driving lessonster.¡± He suggested and I agreed immediately as I scooted over for him to take over.

    We drove back home and it waste already, my mum was home already and I was grateful that I¡¯d disagreed to the idea of kissing Mason because I knew we¡¯d make out till we got to the sitting room.

    That would¡¯ve been weird if my mum saw it.

    We ate our dinner silently and when I asked about Danny she told me he had to stay at workte because of how much the workload is.

    Following my mum, I went to bed with her since I¡¯d already decided to spend the night with her.

 Chapter 73

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Picking up my phone, I texted Mason and he replied almost immediately, we texted about how we both wished we could spend the night together.

    I really do wish I could spend the night with him but I couldn¡¯t since I was already in my mum¡¯s room and the only thing I can do now is to wait till morning before seeing Mason again.

    ¡°Ooh, who¡¯s he?¡± My mum¡¯s voice from behind me made me jump and I almost dropped my phone in fear.

    How long has she been standing there for? Did she see who I was texting?

    ¡°Mum!¡± I called angrily as I stood to face her, ¡°you scared me.¡± I pointed out, clutching my chest and sheughed as she dried her hair.

    She¡¯d told me she was going to take a shower and I was so engrossed in the chat with Mason that I had no idea when she got into the room.

    ¡°Since when have you been here?¡± I asked, looking confused as I searched her eyes for answers that weren¡¯t really there.

    ¡°See? You were so into the chat with him that you didn¡¯t know when I walked in,¡± she said amidstughter and I only shrugged, ¡°I only just got in so don¡¯t worry you still have your privacy.¡± She added.

    I¡¯ve never felt this much relief in my entire life. What would I have done if she saw that Mason was the one I was talking to?

    ¡°Well, you shouldn¡¯t creep up on me like that. It¡¯s scary and I don¡¯t know.¡± I said as I walked past her and towards the bed.

    She followed me,ughing at me before sitting on the chair in front of the dressing mirror to start her nighttime skincare routine.

    ¡°You should invite him for dinner, I really want to see that boy that got you like this.¡± She started and I could swear that my spit went down the wrong pipe.

    ¡°Well, he¡¯s not ready to meet the entire family yet.¡± I lied after thinking about it carefully for a while and my mum shrugged as she told me that there was no pressure.

    I sat on the bed for over thirty minutes as I listened to my mum lecture me about responsibility and safety and I couldn¡¯t help but think aboutst night.

    Did we use any form of protection?

    My chest clenched as I thought about it but I managed to shake the thought out of my head as my mum joined me on the bed.

    We spoke some more and she told me about how loving Danny has been towards her and how she loved him too.

    I couldn¡¯t be happier for her but what would happen if she found out that I¡¯m in love with her husband¡¯s son and have in fact lost my virginity to him.

    ¡°I¡¯m just d you¡¯re all grown up now.¡± She smiled and Iughed as I told her that I¡¯ve been a grownup since I turned eighteen.

    I opened my eyes to see the bright room and I was still in my mum¡¯s room. Jumping out of bed, I walked down the stairs but she was nowhere to be found.

    Walking back to my room, I decided to have my bath and dress up before going to see Mason.

    I missed him so much.

    When I was done, I went to his room and knocked on the door but there was no answer. The sound of tes ttering downstairs made me go down there.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Oh you¡¯re awake.¡± He said with a smile when he saw me and I sprinted to him and threw myself at him. He pulled away from me and kissed me before asking me to have breakfast.

    ¡°You know, my friends and I are thinking about having this field trip and I want you toe, you can invite Nicole and Ryan too.¡± He started and the idea sounded fun.

    ¡°That sounds like fun but what about our parents?¡± I asked and he shrugged.

    ¡°Leave that to me, I¡¯ll convince them.¡± He assured me and I was happy with that. I finished with my breakfast and kissed Mason as I got out to go to school.

    My phone rang and I picked it up to see that it was a call from my mum. She never calls me at times like this because she knew I¡¯d be in school.

    Reluctantly, I picked it up and I heard the news I wasn¡¯t expecting to hear. She¡¯d told me that my cousin would be in town for two days and would also spend the two days with us.

    ¡°Remember to tell Mason about it since the boys would be sharing a room. He should get to know about it.¡± She finished and I assured her that I would before hanging up.

    I hated the news and the fact that I wouldn¡¯t be able to spend the night with Mason made me sad a little bit but I shrugged it off.

    Maybe this is going to be a chance for me to organize my thoughts and get my priorities right. I could also invite Nicole over so I wouldn¡¯t be bored out of my life.

    sses went well but were a little bit stressful and Nicole wouldn¡¯t stop talking about it when we went to have lunch.

    ¡°My cousin ising over and he¡¯ll be staying with us for two days.¡± I sighed and Nicole immediately took that as her cue to console me.

    ¡°C¡¯mon. I¡¯m not sad about that, it¡¯s sad but I¡¯m fine. I needed some time for myself anyway to organize my thoughts.¡± I exined and she nodded her head in agreement.

    ¡°That¡¯s right and I cane over too and we would definitely have lots of fun together.¡± She started, voicing out my thoughts and I agreed immediately,

    We finished lunch and went back to sses. I couldn¡¯t be happier when sses were over and it was time to go home.

 Chapter 74

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Getting home, I told Mason about what my mum had told me about my cousining to spend two days with us.

    Mason didn¡¯t really take the news so well but he eventually calmed down when he thought it was just for two days and although it¡¯ll be hard, we promised to handle it properly.

    ***

    My cousin came over and is now staying with us, he¡¯d sleep in Mason¡¯s room giving us no chance to spend the night together.

    The day went by quickly and I walked to my room, my phone chimed and I looked at it to see a text from Mason.

    We exchanged texts and talked about how much we missed each other and couldn¡¯t wait for the day my cousin would finally get to leave.

    The ring sound from my bedside rm jolted me out of my slumber and that was how I knew that I¡¯d fallen asleep while texting Mason.

    Picking up my things, I hurriedly made my way to the bathroom since I was already runningte for ss and needed to meet up.

    The door to the bathroom was open and without thinking, I opened the door and ran inside. My eyes widened when I got in to see Mason in there andpletely naked.

    ¡°Sorry.¡± I muttered before turning hurriedly and I¡¯d wanted to leave when I felt a pull on my arm that forced me to face him.

    ¡°Oh c¡¯mon Ava, you¡¯re not a baby,¡± he started as he tried to suppress hisugh, ¡°why are you acting like you¡¯ve never seen me naked before?¡± He asked and I swallowed down hard on the bile at the back of my throat.

    He¡¯s right, why am I acting like a baby like I haven¡¯t really seen him naked?

    Everything I tried to say got caught in my throat as I stammered and Mason onlyughed before cing his wet hand on my waist.

    ¡°Let¡¯s have our bath together like we did just a few days ago,¡± he started and my mouth dropped open, ¡°I missed you so much.¡± He affirmed.

    I¡¯d wanted to argue and refuse the offer but no matter what I said Mason wouldn¡¯t listen to me and he insisted that we have our bath together.

    Giving up, I finally agreed to it as I pulled off my top and I didn¡¯t miss the look of burning pleasure in Mason¡¯s eyes.

    His eyes scanned my body and his lips pursed, my pussy tightened and all I wanted to do right there and then was fuck him.

    Not thinking, I threw myself at him and ced my lips on his as I kissed him hungrily and Mason responded with every ounce of hunger he also had bottled up.

    ¡°God, I missed you so fucking much.¡± He confessed as he breathed in my mouth before proceeding to kiss my neck and his fingers twirled inside my pussy.

    The sound of the knock on the bathroom door caused the both of us to jump as I asked who was there and realized it was my mum.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I heard voices and I just thought¡­¡± my mothers voice trailed off as she exined and I swallowed.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I was just listening to a podcast and you must¡¯ve heard that.¡± I lied and I couldn¡¯t be any more relieved when she bought my lie.

    The receding footsteps told me that she left already, heaving out a sigh of relief. I told Mason that we needed to be extra careful since my cousin is now staying with us and he agreed as we both got out of the bathroom.

    I had to g down a cab to school since my mom already had Mason booked for the day. She needed him to drive her to the store since Danny wasn¡¯t around to do that.

    Getting to school, I met Nicole and I was happy that Ryan was also with her as I told the both of them about the trip to the beach for two days and Nicole was excited.

    ¡°Will there be hotel reservations? Any ns for amodation?¡± She asked and I only shrugged. I had no idea if there was any n for amodation.

    ¡°We¡¯re probably just going to put up a tent by the beachside, that¡¯ll be more fun.¡± I answered and Nicole shrieked again.

    Ryan kissed her before walking to his own ss and I couldn¡¯t wait to exin how frustrated I am about my cousin¡¯s visit and stay with us.

    ¡°It¡¯s just so annoying, he¡¯s around now and I have to be the one to suffer for it. I couldn¡¯t even see my boyfriend for the slightest second.¡± I groaned and Nicoleughed.

    ¡°It¡¯s not funny.¡± I hissed and she stoppedughing at once.

    ¡°Do you know what¡¯s more fun in a rtionship?¡± She asked and I raised an eyebrow as I shook my head, ¡°sneaking around, trust me you¡¯ll enjoy it.¡± She finished with a wink.

    sses went by quickly and Nicole and I decided to go to the mall together so we would be able to shop for bikinis and other beach wears.

    Nicole saw a charm bracelet and I couldn¡¯t deny the fact that it was indeed beautiful. She wouldn¡¯t stop talking about how I needed to get one for Mason and myself.

    ¡°Get it for him and you can also get one so the both of you would be matching.¡± She insisted and after much persuasion I finally gave into her suggestions.

    Taking a long stare at it, the butterflies in my stomach grew as I kept it inside my purse. I wouldn¡¯t just give it to him ndly.

    I¡¯d made up my mind to give the charm bracelet to Mason after I¡¯d confessed my feelings to him. It would make the bracelet more special and things would feel realer.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Sighing, I smiled to myself at what I¡¯d had nned already.

    I¡¯m confessing my love to Mason, I have it all nned out and nothing could possibly go wrong.

 Chapter 75

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The day for the trip came and I couldn¡¯t be happier that I would finally get to spend some alone time with Mason.

    That was until my mum made us take my cousin along, I was angry but there was no way I could let her know that or she would suspect something.

    Me, Mason, Ryan, Nicole and my cousin all decided to meet at my house and set things up there before embarking on the trip.

    Everyone was ready and we had to take three cars, Nicole and Ryan. I was jealous of them because I had to ride with Mason and my cousin and that left us no chance to do anything.

    Mason¡¯s friends drove another car too. I texted Nicole all through the drive as I whined about how I hated the whole set up.

    She consoled me and reminded me of how she¡¯d asked us to sneak around and how much fun I¡¯ll have on the beach.

    Giving up, I closed my eyes as Mason drove and it didn¡¯t take long for us to get to the beach. It was there that I realized that Mason had already rented a beach house for the next two days.

    ¡°Oh my god!¡± Nicole shrieked and Masonughed as she hugged him, it was a friendly and harmless hug, ¡°you are such a genius!¡± She added and I rolled my eyes.

    She never really liked the idea of spending the night in the tent. I knew Nicole would act excited only toin about the mosquitoes and other things that couldn¡¯t let her sleep.

    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s settle in!¡± Mason called and we all started packing our things to settle in.

    It was a three bedroom house and Rylie, Nicole and Me picked one room while the boys picked the other two rooms since they were more than us.

    ¡°How¡¯s it going with Mason?¡± Rylie asked and even Nicole seemed interested even though she already knew all there was to know about us.

    I told Rylie about our rtionship and she seemed genuinely happy for us. Picking up a towel, she announced that she was going to have a shower.

    ¡°Does she know that Mason and you are step siblings?¡± Nicole asked in a whisper. She must¡¯ve noticed Rylie¡¯s curiosity and things like that never pass Nicole by.

    ¡°She doesn¡¯t and I intend to keep it that way, please.¡± I answered and she nodded as she made a yful gesture of her zipping her mouth and throwing away the keys.

    Nicole and I talked for a while and even took pictures as we waited for Rylie to finish so we could also take a shower.

    I needed a rxing bath to make me rx and I couldn¡¯t wait to have it. The thought of confessing to Mason also crossed my mind and I smiled.

    ¡°Someone is head over heels in love.¡± Rylie pointed out, I had no idea she was already out of the bathroom and Nicole was in there already.

    Smiling, I brushed her off and went to the bathroom as soon as Nicole got out of it. The water was cold and it stung at first but my body soon rxed under the shower.

    Getting out of the shower, we put our makeup on and I¡¯d wanted to wear a free flowing gown when Rylie protested before handing me a bikini.

    ¡°Where do you think you are, the church?¡± Shemented and Nicoleughed before telling me that she liked Rylie.

    Both of them took turns persuading me into putting on the ¡®sexy bikini¡¯ and finally giving in. I did as they wanted and I didn¡¯t hate it.

    I loved how it revealed my body and for the first time in a long time I wasn¡¯t really self conscious about my body.

    We finished with our makeup and we all went outside to have fun. It really was jus as fun as Mason had said it¡¯ll be.

    We ate, swam and took tons of pictures. Mason and I weren¡¯t really able to spend much time together but what mattered the most was the fact that we enjoyed ourselves.

    Later that night, we all made a fire and gathered round with some other group of people and started ying games.

    It was all fun until one of them decided to act funny with me and also touch me inappropriately. Mason beat him up and it took the whole group to get Mason off the guy.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    The guy¡¯s nose was broken and his face was filled with blood while Mason only had a few bruises on his knuckles.

    It was a good thing I brought a first aid kit just in case, ¡°you really shouldn¡¯t act so jealous and possessive of me when there¡¯s so many people around.¡± I sighed when I finished cleaning his knuckle.

    ¡°I know but I just can¡¯t help it.¡± He replied and I smiled as I ced my head on his shoulders.

    It was reallyte at night and everyone had already retired to bed. I got a text from Mason asking that I meet him outside.

    Without thinking, I joined him and we both took a long stroll on the beach. It was silent and peaceful, the air was calm, the stars were more than usual and they were beautiful.

    The only sound made was from the wave of the water and even the sight of that was also beautiful. Giggling, we wrote our names in the sand before going into the water.

    Our names got messy when the water washed it off and weughed, ¡°I want you to tick something off your bucket list.¡± Mason started, holding me tightly and closer to him.

    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± I asked, oblivious to what he meant and what he wanted me to tick off.

    ¡°I wrote skinny dipping on your list and it¡¯s also on mine, plus, I want to see you naked so let¡¯s do it.¡± He exined and my eyes almost fell off.

    Disagreeing, I felt shy and my cheeks started to feel hot, Mason insisted and after a while I finally agreed. We both took our clothes off and went into the water naked.

    It was really nice, Mason kissed me and the butterflies in my stomach went berserk. I really can¡¯t wait for tomorrow.

    I¡¯d finally tell him that I love him.

 Chapter 76

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I couldn¡¯t stop myself from thinking about the fun Mason and I hadst night and I really couldn¡¯t wait to confess my feelings to him.

    Smiling, I kept fiddling with my phone until I heard it ring and that put a halt to my thoughts. Looking around the room like anyone was going to beat me up if I answered.

    My heart skipped a beat when I saw Mason¡¯s name boldly written on the screen, lots of thoughts crossed my mind and I was too scared to answer the call that I had to let it ring.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to answer that?¡± Nicole asked and I had no idea what to answer her with.

    It soon started ringing again and I couldn¡¯t just let it keep ringing without answering it. Bracing myself up and summoning every ounce of courage I had left in me.

    ¡°You have it all nned out, you can do this, Ava.¡± I said to myself, my heart still racing that it felt as though it was going to fly out of my chest.

    Can I really do this?

    ¡°Hey.¡± I coughed into the phone and I could hear slight giggles from the background but I only shrugged it off.

    Why is he calling me now so suddenly? What does he want to say?Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    Unable to sit or even stand in a particr spot, I started pacing as I waited for him to take his time before talking.

    ¡°Hey, Ava. Can youe down?¡± He asked and before I could say anything else he told me where I was going to meet up with him.

    ¡°I¡¯m waiting.¡± He finally finished. Unable to say anything else, I hung up out of fear before realizing it and I mentally pped myself as I stared into the phone.

    Why did I hang up so abruptly?

    Deep down I knew why I hung up so abruptly was because I was scared. I could go over there to meet him but would he ept my nice gestures?

    I¡¯ve been bottling this up for so long that I have it all nned out and I even made a mental note as I practiced what I was going to say to him and how I¡¯d say it.

    But now it seems like I¡¯m chickening out. Whatever it takes, I¡¯m going to make sure that I confess my feelings to him.

    Nicole picked out a short red strapless dress and had even picked out a hair tie to match with it. She helped with my makeup and soon I was ready to go.

    Taking a deep breath, I picked up the charm bracelet and made my way to the beach where I¡¯m supposed to meet Mason.

    Everything was set romantically, there was wine and lots of sea foods. Mason pulled out the chair for me and I sat as we both ate our food and also talked.

    He never spoke about his childhood but today was different and he told me a lot of things that he thinks I needed to know about him.

    He told me how he felt when his mother left and the reason he never really got engaged in a long term rtionship.

    I¡¯ve never felt so special and so I decided I was going to tell him things about my father in return. I told him about my dad and how I grew up and things I also thought he needed to know about me.

    ¡°I have something for you,¡± I announced with a smile after dinner and pulled out the bracelet, ¡°I also have something I want to tell you.¡± I added and he raised an eyebrow before clearing his throat.

    ¡°I also have something to tell you.¡± He replied and my cheeks felt hot as my eyes widened. I watched as he pulled out a beautiful ring and requested that I give him my hand.

    He inserted the ring into my finger and nted a kiss on my lip, my heart fluttered and the butterflies in my stomach grew.

    ¡°Ava,¡± he started and I couldn¡¯t wait to hear what he wanted to say to me before I finally let him know how much I love him.

    ¡°You know, all my life has always felt like I was missing something but ever since you came along and into my life, it has been more colorful and six months with you had been nothing but magic.¡± He continued his speech and my knees felt weak immediately.

    Leaning into me, he kissed me again and looked into my eyes for what seemed like minutes, ¡°Ava, I..¡± he was still talking when we heard a voice.

    ¡°Ava!¡± A familiar voice called, the person who¡¯d called interrupted the beautiful moment and I got mad until I turned to see who it was and my eyes widened.

    It was my cousin and I had no idea how long he¡¯s been watching us until he gripped my arm and pulled me away from Mason.

    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you? What on earth do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± He asked, raising his voice and causing a scene.

    He saw everything.

    ¡°You¡¯re having a love affair with your step brother?¡± He asked again as he scoffed, I could hear the disappointment in his voice as he spoke.

    ¡°How selfish can you be? You wait, just wait until your mum gets to hear about this and the rubbish you have going on with him!¡± He yelled again, everyone was outside now.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been suspecting it for a while but I didn¡¯t want to believe it because why? You¡¯ve always been decent and even if you wanted to be bitchy, you could¡¯ve done it elsewhere and not with your stepbrother?!¡± He added.

    He was still about to say something else when I saw him fall to the ground and I looked to see Mason breathing heavily with his hand already made into a fist.

    ¡°Call her bitchy one more time and watch what the hell would happen to you!¡± Mason yelled and his friends were holding him back from hitting my cousin again.

    The tears flowing freely down my eyes, I felt ashamed of myself as I ran away from the beach but Nicole and Ryan followed closely behind me.

    I had it all nned out but nothing at all went ording to the way I¡¯d nned it.

 Chapter 77

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Broken hearted, I was supposed to go home with Mason but I couldn¡¯t, especially after what my cousin had said to me the other day.

    I finally decided that I would go with Nicole and she was more than happy to have me in her house that night. She made hot chocte for me and sat beside me to calm me down.

    ¡°I¡¯m such a fool,¡± I sniffed as I ced my head on her shoulder, ¡°why on earth did I think that this would work out?¡± I asked rhetorically before going back to crying again.

    ¡°I should¡¯ve just ended it, I knew things like this wouldn¡¯t work out but I was such a fool for believing that there might actually be a chance for us and now I¡¯m hurt.¡± I finished.

    Snorting and taking a sip of my hot chocte, I tried to calm myself down but nothing worked and Nicole only stroked my hair lightly.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to go through this,¡± she started, ¡°but you know, you can wait until your cousin is gone and you¡¯ll be able to thrash it out with Mason.¡± She suggested.

    She¡¯s actually right, I just have to wait for some days and when my cousin is gone I would talk to Mason. Agreeing with her, Iid on my bed and couldn¡¯t stop thinking about what happened at the beach.

    I was already dozing after hours of trying to sleep when my phone rang and I picked it up to see that it was my mum.

    Sprinting out of bed, I dried up my tears and tried to make sure that my voice wasn¡¯t shaky as I spoke.

    ¡°Hey mum.¡± I tried to call cheerily but my voice still broke and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that there was a hint of sadness in it.

    ¡°Ava, Hi!¡± My mum greeted me back and I was relieved to know that she hadn¡¯t suspected a thing, ¡°what happened at the beach?¡± She asked.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked too, pretending I had no idea what she was talking about.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s just that Mason has been acting all grumpy and he wouldn¡¯t talk to anyone, it was almost as if he got into a fight,¡± she exined, ¡°Did something happen?¡± She asked again and Iughed nervously.

    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know, I don¡¯t think so.¡± I lied and my mum was silent for a while.

    ¡°Why is your voice shaky?¡± She asked and my eyes widened at once. I¡¯d thought she hadn¡¯t noticed, ¡°have you been crying?¡± She asked again and I shook my head immediately as if she¡¯d see me.

    ¡°No, why on earth would I be crying?¡± I denied, ¡°I¡¯m just having a stomach upset and Nicole made soup for me already.¡± I lied and she bought it.

    We spoke for a while and she¡¯d said she¡¯ll try to get Mason to cheer up, she asked Nicole to take good care of me before finally hanging up.

    ***

    Nicole and I got dressed for school and I couldn¡¯t wait for the day to be over. I was the happiest when I realized ourst ss was canceled.

    After school, Mason was already waiting for me and I said my goodbye to Nicole and Ryan before going to meet him.

    Silently, I got into the car and he really tried to cheer me up but nothing worked. I felt like I was a disappointment .

    I was making out and having sex with my stepbrother and also had the nerve to think that whatever we had going on would work out.

    But I love him, I really do and I can¡¯t imagine living without him. I¡¯ve gotten to know Mason and he¡¯s be a part of me already.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Ava,¡± Mason¡¯s voice jolted me out of my thoughts and I turned to look at him, ¡°I promise I¡¯ll make sure that we have another chance to be together.¡± He assured me and I smiled.

    How is he able to do that? Make me smile and happy and feel like all I¡¯m doing is right?

    He rubbed the back of my hand and leaned in closer to me, we kissed and then he drove me to meet Danny.

    I¡¯m getting my driver¡¯s license today and that way I¡¯ll be able to drive my car around. We left and decided to have lunch together.

    Danny asked about school and Mason and I took turns talking to him. I felt better than I was feeling earlier today.

    ¡°This is what I love seeing,¡± Danny started, grinning from ear to ear, ¡°you both are starting to act like real siblings and Mason is being a good elder brother, I¡¯m proud of you both.¡± He finished and I smiled.

    I heard noises and had wanted to shrug it off until I saw the rain start pouring, my head spun and my chest tightened as the noise grew louder.

    My breathing paced and soon I started finding it difficult to breathe. Holding my chest and making a gesture with my hand, I saw the smile on Danny¡¯s face get reced with fear and worry.

    Not knowing what else to do, he picked up his phone and I guessed he was trying to call my mum but Mason stopped me and rushed to my side.

    ¡°You¡¯re fine, I¡¯m here, you¡¯re okay, it¡¯s going to be okay.¡± Mason whispered softly into my hair as he stroked it and cradled me.

    My fear subsided and I felt a little bit better knowing that I have Mason here and I¡¯m not alone. We left the restaurant and Danny drove us home, he was still scared and worried about me.

    ¡°Oh my god, you¡¯re okay.¡± My mum said as soon as she saw me, I could hear the worry in her voice and not waiting to hear me out, she hugged me tightly.

    ¡°I¡¯m so d you¡¯re fine.¡± She added and I smiled as she held me and led me upstairs.

    I turned to look at Mason and he was also worried but he blew me a kiss and gestured to me that I was going to be fine.

    That was all the assurance I needed.

 Chapter 78

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Leaving everything behind us, Mason and I decided we¡¯re going to forget about everything and just enjoy the moment we have together.

    The past months I spent with Mason was Heaven and I really wished that all of these wouldn¡¯t stop and would justst a lifetime.

    We went on multiple dates and he would help me whenever there were thunderstorms, talk me through it and let me know that he¡¯ll always be here with me and whenever I need him.

    ¡°Shh,¡± he silenced me when I was having one of my usual panic attacks and just at the moment he held me I felt safe, safer than I always am with him.

    ¡°I¡¯m here, you¡¯re safe.¡± He whispered before kissing me and I closed my eyes as I rxed in his embrace. His holds were always warm and he never failed to give me the warmth I always needed.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    We made a lot of memories and even made out but ever since the first time we had sex, we haven¡¯t tried it again since we both agreed to keep it going slow.

    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t rush things,¡± he advised as he took my hand and I looked up to meet his gaze, ¡°until we¡¯re finally able to tell our parents about all this.¡± He added and I was shocked.

    I¡¯d asked if he was out of his mind at first but then, I ended up understanding, we couldn¡¯t possibly keep sneaking around and sooner orter they¡¯d eventually know about us.

    I finally agreed with him as we decided to take things slow. I also made up my mind not to tell him about my feelings for him since that day.

    Nicole did all that was within her power to make me talk to him about it but I didn¡¯t want to ruin what we had going on and it was just better if neither of us confessed our feelings.

    ¡°Just drop it, Nicole, Okay?¡± I said, trying my best not to yell, my voice came out with a lot of pressure and with each word that rolled out of my tongue, my voice broke.

    I turned to see Nicole stare at me with sympathy and I rolled my eyes as I told her not to worry about it that I¡¯m fine.

    We spoke for a while and I told her about Mason¡¯s uing graduation and how I wanted to get a gift for him. Nicole agreed to go shopping with me and we both left the house together.

    Although I was still hurt about the fact that I was unable to let Mason really know how I feel, I shrugged it off and shoved it at the back of my mind.

    He knows how much I love him already and I don¡¯t have to talk about it.

    I tried so hard to forget about it but nothing worked, Nicole¡¯s voice calling my attention to something put a halt on my thoughts and I braced myself up as we kept looking around for a gift I could give to Mason and we finally found one.

    It was a ne, I¡¯ve never seen him use a ne before but I was sure he would like this one.

    This isn¡¯t the only gift I got and also not the only gift I intend to give to him, smiling to myself, I paid for everything I got before going home.

    *****

    Mason¡¯s graduation came and everyone was happy including me, I couldn¡¯t have been happier that my boyfriend is finally done with college.

    We all went with him and celebrated with him, Mason and I took pictures and I couldn¡¯t have been any more proud of him.

    ¡°Here.¡± I offered with a smile as I handed him the bouquet of flowers I got and also the gift card. He was excited and nted a kiss on my cheek since he couldn¡¯t kiss my lips.

    ¡°This isn¡¯t the only thing I have nned but you¡¯ll only get to see the next surprise when it¡¯s just me and you.¡± I whispered and he smiled.

    It¡¯s been months and I¡¯d nned and made up my mind to finally have sex with Mason tonight but before then I¡¯ll give him the ne too, the sex and the ne would be special.

    Staying around and having fun for a while, Danny already made reservations at a restaurant and we all went there to celebrate Mason¡¯s special day.

    We all ate and everyone was chatty, we allughed as Danny talked about how Mason has grown and how he¡¯s not a little boy anymore, we allughed and the clinking of the ss made us all stop to concentrate on Danny.

    He had his wine ss with him and he was smiling proudly at Mason, ¡°Mason,¡± he started and I couldn¡¯t tear my eyes away from him.

    ¡°I don¡¯t say this often but I really do love you, all these years I have waited for this moment and I couldn¡¯t have been any more proud of you, son. I just can¡¯t believe how fast you¡¯ve grown and how far you¡¯vee, I¡¯m proud of you¡­¡± his voice trailed off and I could see a hint of tears in his eyes.

    My mum stood up to hug him and we all clicked our sses before having the drink. Staring at Mason proudly, I¡¯m really proud of him too and I¡¯m d we got close.

    We finished eating and Danny popped a bottle of champagne as he made another toast to Mason¡¯s sess.

    ¡°Also, I have an announcement to make,¡± Danny started again, ¡°Mason would be leaving the country in two day¡¯s time too¡­¡± whatever he said next, I didn¡¯t hear it.

    What? Mason is leaving the country.

    I looked at him and he had a defeated look on his face like he had no other choice but to leave.

    Why didn¡¯t he tell me?

    I looked over at my mum too and she seemed like she knew about the traveling ns and I¡¯m the only one in the dark about it all.

    Is Mason really leaving the country?

 Chapter 79

    Ava¡¯s POV

    All of Mason¡¯s efforts to talk to me proved futile, I was still in shock and I didn¡¯t want to see or even get intimate with him. I just wanted him to leave me alone and I was d when we finally left the restaurant.

    I couldn¡¯t let our parents know that something was wrong with me and so I hid it behind a fake smile. We got home and started drinking, my mum let me drink since it was a special asion.

    I was d that I could finally take a shot of tequ, the burn in my throat was nothingpared to what I was feeling in my heart and I just wanted it all to go away.

    Our parents went through our photo album and giggled about how cute we looked and when they finished going through it, they started talking but I wasn¡¯t paying attention.

    I just couldn¡¯t stop drinking and I also couldn¡¯t help but think if all those months we spent together was just nothing to him.

    Am I really special to him or just like every other girl he only just used me for his own pleasure and would finally dismiss me when he¡¯s done with me?

    Why am I still thinking about it? He¡¯s done with me and he¡¯s also leaving the country.

    I tried to stand but my legs failed me and I fell back on the chair. The entire house looked like it was upside down and my head felt like it was spinning while I felt like barfing.

    Before I knew what was going on, I was off my feet and soon on my bed, I could see Mason¡¯s face even though it was blurry a little bit.

    He turned to leave but I held him back and stopped him from taking another step. I wanted to know if I was nothing to him.

    I tried so hard not to cry but it felt as though the tears had a mind of their own as they streamed down my face effortlessly.

    ¡°How could you be so heartless?¡± I slurred, ¡°I should¡¯ve known, I should¡¯ve read the writings on the wall, you¡¯re nothing but a liar and a fucking yboy!¡± I yelled, my voice breaking and I didn¡¯t care if any of my parents heard me.

    ¡°Why? Why?¡± I cried and I felt Mason sit beside me as I dried my eyes but I only spat at him. The ache in my heart was even more intense than it was before.

    He didn¡¯t even have the courtesy to tell me that he wasn¡¯t only moving out of the house but leaving the country despite how close we are.

    ¡°I thought we made a promise not to keep secrets from each other, do you know how I feel right now?¡± I asked as I sniffed but he didn¡¯t say a word, ¡°that¡¯s what I thought.¡± I sniffed again.

    ¡°Ava, I¡­¡±

    ¡°Get Out!¡± I yelled, cutting him off and not giving him another chance to lie to me again, ¡°get out and I don¡¯t ever want to see you again!¡± I yelled, it was bing hard to breathe now.

    My breath kept getting caught in my throat and I started feeling hot and perspiring as I clutched my chest tightly, I didn¡¯t think I would ever get to feel a hurt as brutal as this.

    ¡°Ava just listen to me please, I tried to tell you but¡­¡±

    ¡°Tried?!¡± I cut him off again, ¡°you tried to tell me? Well maybe you didn¡¯t try hard enough.¡± I spat as I struggled to pull off the ne he¡¯d given me.

    Finally pulling it off, I threw it at him before staggering on my feet and pushed him till he was out of my room.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to see you anymore. What we have, what we shared was just a joke, it¡¯s not real and I never loved you.¡± I lied and he¡¯d wanted to say something when I mmed the door in his face.

    Slowly walking to my bed, I fell on it and buried my mouth in my pillow as I let out a scream. I love him, I really do love him but he just broke my heart into a thousand pieces.

    Curling up like a ball, Iid cold on my bed as I closed my eyes and hoped the night would pass.

    Just like I¡¯d wished, the night went by quickly and I was awakened when my mother knocked on my door to invite me for breakfast.

    I got ready for the day before walking to the dining room and Mason was already there. Ignoring him, I told our parents that I wasn¡¯t too hungry and I¡¯d like to go over to Nicole¡¯s house.

    Seeing him again brought back a lot of memories and I¡¯d be damned if I broke down in front of him again. Spending the day with Nicole would be better than having to see his face.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ***

    The day he was supposed to leave came and he¡¯d called and even sent multiple texts to tell me about it but I only ignored him.

    My phone rang again and it took everything in me to not m it on the wall, I looked at it to see that it was my mum and cleaning up my tears, I picked it up.

    ¡°Where are you, Ava?¡± She asked, ¡°join us at the airport so we can all see Mason off.¡± She added and I groaned silently.

    ¡°I have a really important test and I won¡¯t be able to make it.¡± I lied and before my mum could say anything else, I hung up.

    I knew they were expecting me to show up and I also knew how disappointed she¡¯d be but that was better than going there to see his face.

    Dropping my phone, I cried on Nicole¡¯s shoulder and I was d when she didn¡¯t say anything to make me feel better, she let me feel the pain and cry as much as I wanted to.

    I finally found love and just when I was enjoying everything, it didn¡¯t take long before my heart got broken by the only man I have ever fallen for.

    I didn¡¯t even get to tell him how much I was in love with him, and honestly, I¡¯m d I didn¡¯t although it killed me inside.

 Chapter 80

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Mason leaving left a huge hole in my heart that I really was expecting. I¡¯ve grown close to him, I got too attached and now with him being gone I had no idea how I¡¯d live.

    My heart wasn¡¯t the only thing empty for me, the house was too. There was no one besides my mum and Danny to get home to. I miss him, his eyes that glint even in the dark, his smile that¡¯s always bright enough to lighten up the room.

    It was hard having to live my life practically alone, I still had our parents but they also had their own lives to live. They¡¯d go on dates ande backte at night.

    The sound of my mum giggling downstairs jolted me out of my sleep and I groaned as I got ready for the day before going downstairs to meet them.

    My mum and Danny were both staring at theptop screen and it didn¡¯t take long for me to know that they were talking to Mason.

    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re awake,¡± my mum started when she noticed me in the sitting room and I groaned silently as I closed my eyes in frustration.

    ¡°She¡¯s awake, I¡¯ll let her talk to you.¡± I heard Danny say before my mum signaled to me so I could talk to Mason.

    I wasn¡¯t in the mood to talk to him, I might be missing him so much that it hurts but that didn¡¯t change the fact that he hurt me.

    ¡°Ava, he¡¯s waiting.¡± My mum¡¯s voice put a halt to my thoughts but I only faked a smile before telling her that I couldn¡¯t and I¡¯m runningte for school.

    They must¡¯ve gotten used to the flimsy excuses I give whenever they ask me to talk to Mason. Smiling faintly, I walked out of the house.

    I was tired, I barely ate or even slept properly since he left and worse I was unable to study like I used to and it affected me so much that my grades dropped and my professors made me take some extra courses so I would be able to make up for it.

    I got busy and had thought that would help get my mind off him but it didn¡¯t and at night, I would crawl into Mason¡¯s bed and cry myself to sleep.

    The day went by quickly and I went back home to get ready for the party Nicole told me about. Putting my makeup on, I smiled at the mirror when I thought of Mason and what he would have said if he was around.

    I shouldn¡¯t be thinking about him at all.

    Shaking my head to get the thought of him out of it, I stood and got out of my room to meet Nicole and Ryan.

    The ear splitting noise that came from the building made me realize at once that we¡¯d gotten there already. It was hard to have fun but I decided to take some alcohol instead.

    ¡°You should go easy on those.¡± I heard a voice say and my mouth dropped open when I turned to look at who it was.

    For a moment, I¡¯d thought it was Mason but my eyes got a little bit clearer so that I could see that it wasn¡¯t him and it was just a random guy.

    Scoffing, I took another shot as I told him to mind his own business but he was persistent and he sat with me, we talked for a while and I didn¡¯t know what I was doing when I kissed him.

    Getting back to my senses, I pulled away and began to cry, my chest hurt so much and the pain I was feeling felt new again. It¡¯s like adrenaline, the pain was a sudden rush for me and I started perspiring.

    I saw Nicole and Ryane to me and soon I was in the backseat of the car as Nicole tried to calm me down but nothing was working.

    ¡°Ava!¡± I heard my mum call when we got home, ¡°what happened to her?¡± She asked and I knew the question was directed to Nicole.

    I faintly heard Nicole tell her I was going through a bad breakup and she only needed to give me some time to heal from it.

    ****

    The reflection of the sun piercing through my window and getting into my room made me wince as I turned on the bed. My head was spinning but I managed to stand up and shut the curtain.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Making my way downstairs to get some Advil for my headache, I met my mum at the dining table and she had Advil and a ss of water with her.

    ¡°So, you had a bad breakup huh?¡± She asked as she handed me the drug and water which I took immediately. We talked about it and I asked her not to worry about me since I¡¯m healing already and would be fine.

    I couldn¡¯t tell her Mason was the one who had broken my heart. My heart would be unable to handle the judging and scolding I¡¯ll get from her.

    My phone buzzed and I checked to see that it was a message from Rylie, she asked me to meet up with her for Ice Cream and I did.

    ¡°You know, he nned to tell you about the trip,¡± she started and I was beginning to get mad again but I controlled myself.

    ¡°Not only that, he also wanted to confess his love to you that night at the beach but he didn¡¯t get a chance to because your cousin ruined it.¡± She added and I scoffed.

    ¡°He had all the chances in the world to tell me all this but he didn¡¯t,¡± I replied, ¡°because he doesn¡¯t care about me enough to, I guess I¡¯m not as important to him as I thought I was.¡± I finished and Rylie sighed.

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that, he loves you and you really are important to him,¡± she exined, ¡°just please, Ava. This is me begging you to pick Mason¡¯s call anytime he calls and just hear him out, give him a chance. Please.¡± She added.

    ¡°I¡¯m not making a promise, but I¡¯ll think about it.¡± I answered as we both walked.

    If he loves me like she said then why didn¡¯t he just tell me about it? Why was I in the dark the whole time?

 Chapter 81

    Ava¡¯s POV

    THREE YEARS LATER.

    California, Los Angeles.

    ¡°Did you remember to eat and take your meds, you do remember that you have to right?¡± My mum¡¯s voice from over the phone made me roll my eyes.

    ¡°Oh c¡¯mon. I hope you also remember that I¡¯m not a baby, I¡¯m twenty two years old for crying out loud.¡± I answered and I could hear her try to suppress herughter.

    ¡°To me, you¡¯ll always be a baby and I don¡¯t care if you¡¯re a hundred years old, so please for my sake, try to eat something.¡± She advised me and I rolled my eyes again.

    ¡°Nagging will get you nowhere so this is my own two cents. Stop calling me to nag at me like you¡¯re an old woman and just focus on your husband, okay?¡± I retorted.

    Before she could say anything else, I hung up. If I¡¯d left her on the phone, I knew we could go on and on and that would only dy what I was here to do.

    Thinking for a while and scanning the supermarket, I went to the stand where I was going to get my groceries and I soon started shopping.

    It was a little bit hot too so I couldn¡¯t wait to get back home, taking out the little piece of paper that I had the things I wanted to buy written in, I started ticking the things I got already off the list.

    Lifting my head up, my eyes darted around when I spotted someone familiar, I closed my eyes and opened it again hoping he was going to disappear and that I was imagining it, but I wasn¡¯t. It was real.

    He is really real!

    Mason is at the same supermarket and he had a bouquet of flowers with him and he was also checking for another one.

    Holding my chest, all my efforts to try and regte my breathing proved futile and no matter what I did my heart wouldn¡¯t stop beating so fast.

    Bracing myself, I pretended not to see him and looked away.

    **MASON¡¯S POV**

    Checking out the flowers at the supermarket, I groaned when I saw a wrinkled single rose and I dropped it at once before picking up a bouquet.

    It looked good but another bouquet of cherry blossoms caught my eye and I was checking that out too.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Checking my wristwatch for the time, I knew my colleagues would be pissed if I showed upte but there was nothing I could do, I waste already.

    Looking away from the flowers, I lifted my gaze and our eyes met but she looked away hurriedly. Shocked, I thought I was dreaming at first, I thought that there was no way she would¡¯ve been the one but I would recognize her anywhere and anytime.

    It¡¯s been so long since Ist saw her, talked to her and just seeing her now is so unexpected. I never thought I would ever get the luxury of getting to see her in person again.

    Just as I remember, she was stunning as ever, her slender figure gracing the supermarket as she concentrated on the things she wanted to get and pretended like she didn¡¯t see me before.

    She¡¯s still as beautiful except she was thinner and she had eye bags and dark circles. Thinking of the right thing to say to her, I smiled as I approached her.

    ¡°Some things never change, do they?¡± I asked, clearing my throat as she turned to look at me and it wasn¡¯t until then did I realize how much I missed her.

    ¡°Running into me just like years ago when you did and spilled coffee all over me.¡± I added in an attempt to tease and make herugh but she didn¡¯t even crack a smile.

    Clearing my throat, I decided to let it go and just ask her how she has been all those years and that was the first time sheughed.

    ¡°How have I been?¡± She asked before she stoppedughing abruptly, ¡°I don¡¯t know but taking a look at me should¡¯ve given you an answer to your question.¡± She hissed as she turned to continue shopping.

    I knew she would¡¯ve missed me too and I also knew it would take a toll on her but what do I do? How do I make up for all those times lost?

    ¡°I missed you.¡± I finally said after a while of silence, my voice breaking as I took a step towards her.

    ¡°I called, lots of times I tried to reach you but you wouldn¡¯t take my calls, I kept getting sent to voicemail and you wouldn¡¯t reply to my texts too, I tried Ava. I really did.¡± I exined as she only stood there and stared at me.

    I saw the slight drop of tear that lingered in her eyes and just at the moment she¡¯d wanted to say something to me, her voice broke and she started crying uncontrobly.

    ¡°All those years, all those years Mason and you¡¯re just now telling me you miss me?!¡± She yelled, hitting and pushing me as she spoke.

    ¡°I waited, I hoped and you don¡¯t know, you have no freaking idea how much I tried to live without you but I kept failing. I kept failing and now you¡¯re here¡­¡± she was still talking and hitting me when I held her hand.

    Seeing her cry made my heart ache, I wished I didn¡¯t hurt her like that, I wished I wasn¡¯t the reason she was crying but I am. I¡¯m the reason she¡¯s like this.

    Everyone in the supermarket were staring at us and Ava was causing a scene with the yelling and hitting. I held her hand and tried to keep her calm but nothing seemed to work.

    Without thinking, I lifted her off her feet and carried her out of the supermarket. The scene she was causing was enough and it could get bigger.

    I found a restaurant by the roadside and took her in.

 Chapter 82

    Mason¡¯s POV

    She¡¯s rxed now and better than she was when we were at the supermarket. I couldn¡¯t believe how much time has passed and how she¡¯s changed.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    Ordering us cups of coffee, I told the barista just how she¡¯d like it and after taking our order he left and Ava started crying again.

    Why is she crying? I made sure to be extra careful, did I do anything wrong?

    ¡°I.. I¡¯m sorry, did I do something?¡± I asked, I was confused and worried and I didn¡¯t mean to stutter but her presence usually does something to me and it¡¯s unexinable.

    ¡°It¡¯s all your fault,¡± she started and I couldn¡¯t help but raise an eyebrow at her, oblivious to what she¡¯s talking about, ¡°it¡¯s all your fault that all this is happening right now.¡± She sniffed, her voice breaking.

    ¡°It¡¯s all your damn fault!¡± She finished with a slight yell that took me aback for a while.

    ¡°What do you mean? What¡¯s my fault?¡± I asked, my eyes boring into hers and searching it for answers that seemed to be lost.

    What¡¯s happening with her and why is it my fault?

    Not saying another word, she took a sip of her coffee as she drew a long breath and quieted down. I didn¡¯t want to pressure her into telling me things that might cause her heart to break again so I dropped the discussion.

    ¡°So, what is up with you? How have you been?¡± I asked, trying to pick up a small talk and hopefully get to know what I¡¯ve missed out on.

    ¡°I got married.¡± She finished as she talked about herself and I could swear that my coffee went down the wrong pipe because I coughed.

    She got married?!

    ¡°Congrattions.¡± I smiled, hoping that my shock wouldn¡¯t show in my voice but she only snickered and shrugged me off.

    ¡°I don¡¯t need it, I got a divorce.¡± She rified and my eyes widened. I was lost, I couldn¡¯t wrap my head around what she¡¯d just said.

    She got married and then got divorced?

    Noticing my facial expression and my lost state, Ava exined to me how she was married for a year but that year was the most horrible year of her life.

    I felt bad, I hated the fact that she went through all of that alone. She doesn¡¯t deserve anything bad, Ava only deserves good things only.

    Where was I when all this happened? Why wasn¡¯t I there to take care of her, hold her in my arms and make her happy?

    I also didn¡¯t have everything good, living without her was hell and I couldn¡¯t get her out of my head. It was difficult for me too but I¡¯ve always wanted her to be happy but it looked like it was the other way around.

    Howe I didn¡¯t get to know about the marriage, no one told me anything and not even my father said anything about it.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t hear, no one told me anything.¡± I finally said after a while and Ava scoffed as she took another sip of her coffee.

    ¡°That was because that was what I wanted. You were not invited to the wedding or heard anything about it because apparently we¡¯ve grown a trend of keeping things from each other.¡± She answered spitefully.

    Every word she said stung, I knew she was talking about when I left and didn¡¯t say anything about it.

    ¡°Ava, I swear I tried, I¡¯m sorry.¡± I apologized but she only brushed me off.

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter anymore,¡± she replied, ¡°but why? Why didn¡¯t you call or text for all those years? That¡¯s how easy it is to forget about me?¡± She asked and my heart ached again.

    If only she knew that for years I couldn¡¯t do anything right. Getting her out of my head was the hardest thing for me to do. If only she knew.

    ¡°I called you for months but no replies, you weren¡¯t taking my calls or anything and I just decided to take a step back and leave you be.¡± I answered and something about my answer seemed to set her off.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call too?¡± I asked and her mouth dropped open in disbelief before answering me. She told me she wasn¡¯t supposed to be the one to reach out first.

    ¡°I¡¯m the hurt one, I wasn¡¯t myself for years and that was all because of you and you expect me to be the one to reach out to you first?!¡± She yelled, standing her ground on her not calling.

    ¡°You¡¯re the hurt one huh?¡± I asked, ¡°how are you so sure that I didn¡¯t hurt the same? How are you so sure that I was also myself for years?¡± I shot back at her and she didn¡¯t say anything.

    Changing the direction of the conversation, she decided to talk about something else and she asked some questions about myself.

    ¡°Do you have a partner now?¡± She asked as she pointed to the flower that wasying beside our coffee and Iughed nervously.

    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think.¡± I answered and I knew she was expecting me to say something else, probably exin further but I stopped there.

    I didn¡¯t want to talk about it.

    ¡°What happened? Why did you get a divorce?¡± I enquired and she only shrugged as she told me that she wasn¡¯t interested in talking about it.

    Not wanting to probe further, we changed the conversation and talked about something else for a while. It was fun having to hang out with her and seeing her right now just makes everything seem perfect.

    ¡°What do you think about hanging out sometime? I know a really good restaurant.¡± I suggested but after taking herst sip of coffee she checked her wristwatch and stood.

    ¡°Thanks but, No thanks. I¡¯m not interested.¡± She replied as she stood and made her way out of the coffee shop.

    Hurriedly, I stood and followed behind her but all efforts to get her to wait proved futile as I stood there and watched her getaway in the Uber she¡¯d ordered.

 Chapter 83

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Getting home, I opened my door to the familiar scent of my home and I was also greeted with Miss Lucy¡¯s purr. That seemed to be the onlyforting thing around my house.

    Sinking into the couch, I couldn¡¯t help but think about how I¡¯d bumped into Mason again after all these years.

    Why does it have to be now? Why¡¯d I run into him now of all time?

    I was just starting to heal and he had to show up now, him showing up would mess with me and I knew it. Groaning, I covered my face with my palm as I rested my back on the couch while my catid on myp.

    He looked just as handsome as I remembered, shaking my head, I tried to get the thought of him out of it but nothing I tried worked.

    His face kept popping up in my head and I just couldn¡¯t help but smile sadly at how he looked. He was talking about being hurt but he seemed fine and as though he had his life together already.

    After three years, he still remembered how I enjoyed my coffee, ¡°gosh!¡± I sighed amidst my grins as I stood to walk to the kitchen.

    My fridge looked empty but I was still able to fix dinner for myself and I also fed Miss Lucy. The ring sound of my phone ringing jolted me out of my thoughts and I picked it up.

    ¡°Hey, Ava. How are you doing?¡± My mum¡¯s voice came from over the phone and I shut my eyes in utter frustration.

    I wasn¡¯t in the mood to talk, I just wanted to be left alone instead of being talked to.

    ¡°I just want to know how you¡¯re feeling and if you remembered to eat and take your meds like you¡¯re supposed to.¡± Her voice came again after a while and I figured that it was because I hadn¡¯t said anything.

    ¡°I¡¯m tired.¡± I managed to let out before hanging up and retiring to bed with my cat curled up beside me. Pulling her closer to me, I held on to her tightly before letting the tears flow freely.

    Managing to open my eyes, I groaned at the intensity of my headache and how bright the room was. cing one hand on my head, I buried my face in the pillow for a while before standing up.

    I walked to the mirror and I saw the eye bags underneath my eyes had gotten bigger and even my dark circles are now darker.

    Checking the time, I sighed when I realized that I¡¯d overslept so it would be of no use for me to head to work now.

    I had no appetite for food and forcing myself, I emptied my cat¡¯s litter before refilling her bowl with food again and I headed to the kitchen to make myself a cup of coffee.

    Finally getting to pick up my phone, I saw a few texts from Mason but I deleted it all before even reading it. It¡¯s been years and for my sanity and health the best I can do is to ignore him.

    I¡¯ve made up my mind already to not have any form of intimacy or bond with him as that would not only be the right thing to do but it¡¯ll be better for me and would also help me move forward.

    My phone chimed again and the text that appeared on my phone made my heart sink. It was from thewyer that helped me with my divorce and he¡¯d texted as regards to his bnce.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    How will I be able to keep up with all of this? When will I ever get to live the kind of life I thought for myself?

    Closing my eyes, the yback of the day I met my ex husband yed in my head and I couldn¡¯t help but think about how we met and dated.

    I wasn¡¯t ready for a rtionship but I decided to try it out anyway and hoped it would help me in forgetting about Mason. We got married and I should¡¯ve seen all of the signs right from the moment we got married.

    The day went by quickly and I went back to bed miserably. I barely lived or even did anything fun other than to drink coffee and take naps.

    ***

    The sound that came from my bedside rm jolted me out of my sleep and I got up to get ready for work.

    ¡°The boss asked me to hand this over to you.¡± Thedy at the desk announced immediately I walked into the building and I reluctantly collected the paper from her and opened it.

    It was a letter from my superior and I¡¯d just gotten fired for being ipetent. I didn¡¯t read the rest of the content when I crumpled the paper and threw it away.

    ¡°Son of a bitch.¡± I whispered as I walked back out of the building, my head was spinning and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that I got fired because of my ex husband.

    I know he¡¯s the one who¡¯d implemented my firing because he works in the samepany but in a way higher position and whatever suggestion he offers is taken into consideration.

    God, how am I going to be able to live without a job now?

    I had a lot of debts that needed to be cleared off and worst my rent will be due in a few weeks and I have no idea or way to pay for it since I¡¯m jobless now.

    Dejected, I walked back home, sunk into the couch as I cried. Why does everything have to be difficult for me?

    What have I done to deserve all of this? This isn¡¯t the fairytale or close to fairytale kind of life I pictured for myself.

    Clutching the pillow tightly, I cried as I thought about how wrong my life has been going and there¡¯s nothing I have been able to do to make it right.

 Chapter 84

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Getting home, I decided I was going to call Nicole and just talk to her about losing my job. I needed thatfort from my best friend and although she might be very busy I knew that she¡¯d be willing to offer me the support I need.

    Nicole also stayed in Los Angeles and she has her life going on perfectly well for her that sometimes I wish I was in her shoes and get to enjoy such luxury or love.

    She got married to her sweetheart, Ryan and they both moved here after they got married, they both have a beautiful two year baby girl that I¡¯m the godmother of.

    Ryan owns a car dealer store and lots of employees so he mostly stayed at home to take care of Celia, their daughter. Nicole on the other hand works outside town.

    She¡¯s a banker and only has toe home on weekends. She spends Friday to Sunday with her family before going back again on Monday, whenever Nicole was around Ryan would go to his workce to inspect and put some things in order.

    Nicole had be very busy and I just couldn¡¯t help but be envious of her. It wasn¡¯t toxic but sometimes I question my own life.

    Why am I having it so rough and she¡¯s getting it not really easy but she has everything I would give an arm and a leg for?

    While my life wound up being a dumpster and a trash fire, Nicole¡¯s life is better. She has a beautiful daughter, a kind loving husband and a well paying job.

    Her home is beautiful and whenever I go there I always wish to lead a life like that. Sighing, I shoved the thoughts to the back of my mind as I went to take a look at Miss Lucy¡¯s bowl.

    I shouldn¡¯t be thinking about things like this.

    Shrugging, I decided to get my mind off things and only focus on seeing my best friend tomorrow. It¡¯s a Saturday and I knew she¡¯d be home.

    Picking up my phone, I kept myself upied with a puzzle game I¡¯d downloaded when I was bored. I smiled as I put the pieces together and it wasn¡¯t long until my stomach growled.

    Walking to the kitchen, I made myself scrambled eggs and when I was done eating I retired to the bed with the thought of how perfect Nicole¡¯s life is.

    ***

    Turning on my bed, I opened one of my eyes to see how bright it was and without wasting any more time, I stood up to start getting ready for my meeting with her.

    I was brushing my teeth when her call came in again, she¡¯d told me she couldn¡¯t wait to see me and I just knew that she would want to have me weed in a grand style.

    ¡°Look who¡¯s here!¡± Nicole announced to Celia who was ying with her games but soon dropped everything as her small feet padded towards me and I carried her.

    Having my seat on one of the couches in their sitting room, I asked about Ryan and Nicole told me he¡¯d gone to the car store to check some things out and I smiled.

    ¡°I ran into Mason about a week ago,¡± I started as I fiddled with Celia¡¯s hair, ¡°and he¡¯s been calling me, I mean, why on earth is he just calling me after all these years?¡± I added.

    Lifting my eyes up to look at Nicole when she wouldn¡¯t say anything about what I¡¯d said about Mason which is unlike her, I found out that she¡¯s been staring at me in disbelief with her mouth dropped open.

    ¡°You saw Mason? Here? In LA?¡± She asked and I confirmed her doubts by moving my head back and forth affirmatively.

    ¡°He won¡¯t stop calling me and I have no idea what to do.¡± I replied and she shrugged as she recovered from her shock.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what to say either but thest thing I would say is that you should ignore him,¡± she started talking, ¡°because well, four years ago I advised you against the rtionship with him but you did what you wanted anyways.¡± She finished.

    She¡¯s right, she really did warn me and had even tried to stop the rtionship but couldn¡¯t because I was too happy with him and that was what she wanted.

    ¡°So what do I do?¡± I asked with a sigh and she shrugged again before handing me a te of cookies and a ss of milk.

    ¡°This time I¡¯ll advise you to follow your heart but please, whatever it is you both want to have going on do let your parents know about it no matter what the consequences might be.¡± She replied and I understood what she meant.

    Mason and I can¡¯t keep sneaking around if anything would ever happen between us but at this point I don¡¯t think anything would ever happen.

    ¡°Oh Nicole, I¡¯m knee deep in debts,¡± I groaned, changing the topic, ¡°they¡¯re all due soon and I have no means of paying back.¡± I added as I closed my eyes and rested my back.

    I told her about how I lost my job and how I knew that my ex husband was the one behind it. Nicole cussed him loud enough that I had to tell her to cool it down because of Celia.

    She finally did and I just couldn¡¯t help but think about how extremely lucky I am to have her as my best friend. I couldfortably turn to her whenever I have no one else to turn to.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I could lend you some money to pay off your debts, that way you won¡¯t have to worry.¡± She suggested, her voice was soft and there was a hint of sympathy in it.

    ¡°No, I don¡¯t want to be too much of a burden by leeching off you.¡± I sighed as I turned down her offer and her face dropped.

    ¡°You¡¯re never a burden and you¡¯ll never be a burden.¡± She reassured me but I only forced out a weak smile.

    Having Nicole to lend me some money isn¡¯t what I really need right, ¡°but there is something you could do for me though.¡± I said.

    Nicole¡¯s eyes lightened as she asked what she could do. I told her she could help me by securing me a job at her office and it didn¡¯t take long for her to promise to try her best for me.

    I can¡¯t wait, if she¡¯s able to get me a job where she works then my life would change for good.

 Chapter 85

    Ava¡¯s POV

    After some days, I got another message from Mason, he was apologizing for leaving abruptly and not telling me beforehand and was also pleading for me to see him.

    I¡¯d wanted to ignore the message and probably delete it so I wouldn¡¯t feel the urge to reply when Nicole¡¯s words kept ringing in my head.

    ¡®Follow your heart.¡¯

    It wouldn¡¯t hurt to reply to his text and just ask him to stop apologizing, I wanted us to put the past in the past but how would that be possible when I haven¡¯t fully let go of the so-called past.

    After a while of staring at my phone screen and trying toe up with something to tell him, I finally decided to ask him to stop apologizing since it was starting to be embarrassing.

    The ringing of my phone caught me off guard and I¡¯d almost dropped it when I cautioned myself. Reluctantly, I picked it up and his voice sounded like music to my ears.

    Hearing his voice again was therapeutic and I felt a weird sense of happiness that I haven¡¯t felt in a while. It was strange and I had no idea what to make of it.

    Suppressing the thought, I finally spoke and he seemed relieved to hear my voice too. We made ns for dinner and something about going out to eat didn¡¯t really sit right with me.

    ¡°We could just have dinner in my house, I¡¯ll cook and that way you won¡¯t have to spend money.¡± I replied and that was when I knew why the idea felt somehow to me.

    I was worried about the money that would be spent since I knew how harding across it is and spending money on food outside when I could just make something sounded like a ridiculous idea but he didn¡¯t listen to me.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about where we¡¯re having the dinner, just dress up and send me the address so I cane pick you up, please.¡± His slightly husky voice came from over the phone and I couldn¡¯t help but smile.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Defeated, I agreed on going out with him and after talking for a while we hung up. I got out of my clothes and started getting ready after I¡¯d sent the address and the time he shoulde pick me up.

    I made sure I shaved my legs and staring into the mirror, I brushed my hair and allowed it to fall freely on my shoulders as I applied a red lipstick.

    I picked out a tight and short ck gown that had tiny straps and also picked out wedge heels to match. My mouth dropped when I looked into the mirror.

    I haven¡¯t really looked like this in days. The makeup covered the eye bags and dark circles and it was almost as if my life was going on really well.

    Picking up my phone, I texted Nicole and told her everything about Mason and I but she didn¡¯t reply to any of my messages.

    She must be really busy.

    Nervously, I kept checking the time and turning my phone in my hand as I waited for Mason. I¡¯d even checked my phone again to be sure I sent the address to the right number.

    The knock on the door jolted me out of my thoughts and I checked my phone again to see that it was already eight on dot and he didn¡¯t runte.

    Smiling, I braced myself up to answer the door and Mason looked like he¡¯d seen a ghost when he saw me. He froze and he looked like he wanted to say something before shutting his mouth.

    ¡°You look stunning.¡± He finallyplimented and I felt my cheeks burning hot as I tried to keep my cool and act calm.

    Taking my hand in his, we went to his car and drove to the restaurant he¡¯d made reservations at. I thought it was going to be awkward but it wasn¡¯t and Mason and I gotfortable with each other.

    Finally getting the nerve to talk to him about it, I told him about how bad my marriage was and how it ruined me and I¡¯d even told him about the immense debts that¡¯s due and I have to pay.

    ¡°I¡¯m swamped with lots of debts and no means of paying so, it¡¯s safe to say that my life is a shithole.¡± Iughed nervously as I took a sip of my wine.

    ¡°Why note live with me then, I have enough room for one more¡­¡± Mason offered and I knew he meant no harm but he immediately stopped talking when he noticed the way I was staring at him.

    I shouldn¡¯t be offended but him offering me a ce to stay sounded more like an insult to me. My blood boiled and I clenched my fist and gritted my teeth in anger.

    Moving the chair backwards, I stood up to leave the restaurant. He¡¯d tried to stop me but nothing worked as I hugged myself and made my way to the train station.

    Getting home, I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about his offer and even though it came from his pure heart I just couldn¡¯t see it that way.

    Is this how miserable my life has be?

    Crying as I held my pillow tightly, my eyes started feeling tired and it wasn¡¯t long before I stopped seeing all the lights I once saw.

    ****

    Getting up from bed, I picked up my phone to call my mother and I told her about the finalizing of my divorce with my husband.

    ¡°I also lost my job and I have nowhere else to go so I¡¯ming home.¡± I exined softly and Danny and my mum immediately told me it was okay.

    Danny booked a flight for me after I¡¯d made him promise that he wouldn¡¯t say a word of it to Mason. Packing up the rest of my bags, I picked up my phone and blocked Mason from ever trying to contact me.

    Finally getting to the airport, I felt a sense of relief as I moved away from the country I¡¯d spent three sad years of my life in.

 Chapter 86

    Ava¡¯s POV

    America, San Francisco.

    The fresh breeze of a new city, a new start hit me as I got off the ne and although I was exhausted I was still relieved.

    Looking around, I found Danny and my mum waiting for me and I knew I felt a sense of peace at once. Walking towards them slowly, they both met me halfway and took my bags from me.

    The drive back home was a little bit silent because all I wanted to do at that point was cry my eyes out. We soon got home and when my mom offered to cook something I told her I was fine.

    ¡°Are you really fine?¡± She asked and that was the question that made me lose it.

    I¡¯ve been lying to her, to myself. I¡¯m not fine, I¡¯ve never been fine and worse, I went through hell in my marriage.

    Unable to control my tears, I sobbed as my mother patted my back slowly and gently stroked my hair as she kissed it. I couldn¡¯t keep it away from her anymore.

    This is me, all of me and I couldn¡¯t keep up with the lie anymore so I told her about everything, the emotional abuse I went through and how I¡¯d contemted suicide.

    ¡°I lied mum, I lied. I¡¯m not fine, I¡¯ve never been fine and now I¡¯m in a lot of debt.¡± I cried in her arms and she only pecked me.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, you¡¯ll be fine. Danny will pay off the debts tomorrow so please don¡¯t bother yourself too much about it.¡± She assured me.

    Going back to my room, everything came rushing back to me. The memories Mason and I had made in this house which I tried my hardest to forget about.

    Tossing and turning in my bed because of my inability to sleep, I picked up my phone and scrolled to Mason¡¯s contact and stared at it as I contemted calling it.

    Finally deciding against it, I tossed my phone beside me as I ran my fingers through my hair. Calling him now is useless and we¡¯re better off as strangers.

    Picking up my phone again, I sent a text to Nicole and told her about how I left LA for San Francisco and won¡¯t be back for a while.

    My sanity had gone down below and right now I had no idea who I was. I lost myself amidst losing the most important person in my life and now I had no idea how to get myself back.

    Scrolling through the inte, I tried to hunt for jobs because I knew that way I would have less things to think about but nothing good wasing out of my search.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    I closed my eyes and the first image that popped up was that of Mason, his smile, the way his hair fell on his face and his soft, luscious perfect lips that always called out to me.

    Groaning, I buried my face in my pillow and tried to sleep but all efforts proved futile and I gave up as I stared at the window as the night plunged deeper into darkness, my eyes soon started feeling tired and I was grateful.

    ***

    It¡¯s been two days and I¡¯m still a damn train wreck. Sleeping would be hard for me if I didn¡¯t do it in Mason¡¯s room and reminisce about the good times we had together.

    Holding onto his favorite shirt, I clutched it close to my chest as I cried. I¡¯m missing him so much and it¡¯s not only killing me, it¡¯s ruining me.

    ¡°What is going on?¡± My mother¡¯s sudden voice made me jolt and I hurriedly cleaned my tears before turning to look at her.

    I had no idea when she got in or how long she¡¯d been here, ¡°Nothing, what do you mean?¡± Iughed nervously as I tossed the shirt behind me.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare lie to me, Ava!¡± She cautioned before sitting beside me and took the shirt from me, ¡°I¡¯ve been watching you since you arrived and you¡¯re always in Mason¡¯s room.¡± She finished and I sighed.

    I had no idea what to say as I fiddled with the hem of my dress while my mother pointed out the obvious.

    ¡°This same thing happened years ago when Mason left after his graduation, you cried and slept in his room for days,¡± she continued as she took my hand in hers, ¡°I just want to know what¡¯s going on.¡± She finished softly.

    I lifted my gaze to look at her and I still don¡¯t know what to say, I could see the flicker of sadness and concern in her eyes, her face was wrinkled too.

    ¡°Did anything happen between you two or is something going on between you two? I just want to know because you asked us not to tell him anything about you, youpletely shut him out of your life and now you made us promise not to let him know you¡¯re home, talk to me Ava.¡± She added.

    ¡°I¡­ it¡¯s.. it¡¯s nothing.¡± I stuttered but I know I failed because thest thing my mother would believe right now is the usual ¡®I¡¯m fine¡¯ that I always say to her.

    I stared at her and she had an eyebrow raised, denying it would be pointless so I braced myself up and told her about everything that happened between Mason and I.

    For the first time I was able to not think about the scolding, the disappointment, the judgement and I was able to tell her what happened between Mason and I.

    I¡¯d thought she was going to tell me about how I¡¯ve let her down by having a sexual rtionship with my stepbrother. I braced myself up to hear all of the horrible things she had to say and when she didn¡¯t say anything I lifted my gaze to meet hers and she was smiling.

    ¡°Why am I just getting to know about this now?¡± She asked and I held her tightly as I cried. The reason I couldn¡¯t tell her all these years was because I was afraid.

    Sitting there with my mother and crying, I finallyid on herp as sheforted me.

    I really should¡¯ve just told her about it a long time ago.

 Chapter 87

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I picked up my phone and decided to video chat with Nicole. I had a lot of things I wanted to say to her and I silently prayed that she wouldn¡¯t be too busy for me.

    She picked up on the third ring and I felt relieved, I was happy to see her and although my life was still miserable it was better than when I was still in LA.

    I told her everything that had happened and I also mentioned that I sent her a text which she admitted she saw but couldn¡¯t reply to because she was a little bit busy.

    ¡°So, you finally chickened out on Mason and ran away when a second chance for you to hold on tightly to him showed itself. I never took you for such a coward because from all you exined, he¡¯s trying really hard to have you back and you just let him go without as little as a fight.¡± She said.

    Every word she said stung and it was because she was right, she¡¯s right. I chickened out on him and ran away but how am I supposed to just let him into my life again?

    It¡¯s the hardest thing for me to do, I¡¯m still not over the fact that he left just like that without respecting me enough to tell me about it.

    First it was Xander who ran off after kissing me and despite the many promises Mason made to me about not being Xander and always being around, he left too and then there¡¯s my ex husband.

    Everything just seemed too much and overwhelming, I¡¯ve finally made peace with the fact that I¡¯ll never be as lucky as other people whom love easily came to.

    It would never be easy for me and quite frankly I have reasons to believe that I would never find true love.

    ¡°I¡¯m done, I¡¯m just done with him and not just him, I¡¯m done with men.¡± I let out, promising myself to keep off anything that had to do with having a man in my life.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°Oh c¡¯mon. That¡¯s not the solution,¡± Nicole started, ¡°you remember how extremely happy you were when you were with Mason? I¡¯ve never seen you that happy before and that¡¯s all that matters.¡± She pointed out and I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°Stop bringing him up, I don¡¯t want to talk about him, not now, not ever. I¡¯m finally bringing myself to move on from him so let¡¯s just keep it at that.¡± I replied and she groaned.

    ¡°I finally told my mum everything,¡± I started quietly, ¡°and you know what was surprising, I was scared she¡¯d be disappointed and judge and scold me but nothing of that sort happened when I told her.¡± I added.

    ¡°Really? What did she say then?¡± She enquired and I told her how my mother was hurt for me and how she¡¯dforted and helped me sleep.

    Nicole and I heard her name and I knew it was time for her to go, her boss had called her attention to something she needed to tend to.

    ¡°I¡¯ve gotta go now,¡± she rified and I nodded, ¡°I¡¯ll call you backter because we really need to finish our conversation.¡± She added and Iughed before hanging up.

    Running my bath, I buried myself in the warm water as I closed my eyes. Part of me wished I would just drown but I knew I didn¡¯t want to.

    My life is a mess, everything is shitty and it¡¯s going down the rabbits hole and I¡¯m not proud of it. Everyone around me including Mason seem to have their lives in order and on the right track while mine just keeps going wrongly.

    I hated everything going on around me, I hate myself and I also hate Mason.

    Crying like a little baby, Iid down there motionless and pretended I was dead and numb to everything that was going on but the warm water on my skin made me know that I¡¯m still alive.

    My mum finally introduced me to one of the directors in Danny¡¯spany and she¡¯d asked him to give me a temporary job since I would be leaving soon and don¡¯t want anything really permanent.

    I was happy when they agreed and now, my life doesn¡¯t seem so bad. Getting ready for lunch with Danny and my mum, I joined them downstairs and we all drove to a restaurant.

    Lunch was going on well and silently until Danny mentioned Mason, ¡°Mason called.¡± He started and I didn¡¯t say anything as I cut through my steak.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell us that you met him in Los Angeles?¡± He asked and I cleared my throat as I ate, taking a sip of my wine. I told him it was because I didn¡¯t think it was important to mention it to them.

    ¡°Really, Ava?¡± He asked and I raised an eyebrow as I stared at him, ¡°are you not over the stupid fight you had with him before he left San Francisco? It¡¯s been years and you¡¯re still like this.¡± He added.

    Taking a nce at my mother, I stood up and stormed out of the restaurant. It wasn¡¯t his fault, he had no idea we dated and how hard his son hurt me.

    Walking into a store, I got the strongest alcoholic drink they had and after paying I drove to the beach to drink and wallow in my hurt.

    Smiling bitterly, how could I forget about the first and thest time I came here with Mason, the memory was a bittersweet one and it didn¡¯t take long for the tears to start dripping down again.

    Everything was going on smoothly and we were both happy, it was right before I found out that he was leaving the country after his graduation.

    Why? Why did he hurt me like that?

    Downing the alcohol right from the bottle, I couldn¡¯t help but cry and cuss Mason out as I drank.

 Chapter 88

    Ava¡¯s POV

    It¡¯s been six months and I¡¯ve finally brought myself to learn how to live without men. Without dwelling in the past and finally moving on with my life.

    Working my butt off at my temporary job, I was happy at how well it paid and the respect I was orded, no one ever mentions Mason when I¡¯m around and I couldn¡¯t be any more grateful for that.

    It seemed as though my mum had told everything I said to her about Mason and I to Danny but six months has passed and he still hasn¡¯t said anything to me.

    I was expecting a confrontation, I was expecting to be bombarded with different questions especially when I¡¯d walked out on him and gone for a drink at the beach but he still said nothing to me.

    I¡¯d wanted to bring it up too but I felt ashamed of myself, I felt as though I¡¯d disappointed him and even looking him in the eye was hard for me so I decided not to bring it up too.

    Exhausted, I sighed when I got home and sank into the chair as I rested my back and closed my eyes to rx a little. I felt a slight squeeze on my shoulder and I smiled.

    ¡°Rough day at work, huh?¡± She asked and opening my eyes, I turned to look at her as I stood and carried my bag with me.

    ¡°Tell me about it.¡± I replied and sheughed as she told me to go take a shower and get ready for dinner since she prepared my favorite meal.

    After showering I got down to join them at the table and dinner was going on well until Danny decided to make an announcement.

    ¡°Mason will be home in three days¡¯ time, he just told me about it.¡± He announced and my mum shrieked. It¡¯s been five years and it was easy to tell that they¡¯d missed him.

    The news came like a shock to me and I felt a surge run through my veins like some sort of electricity.

    What game is fate ying with me? I¡¯d left LA just because I didn¡¯t want to see or run into him again and now he¡¯sing to me again.

    Why does he always have to be wherever I am?

    Clearing my throat, I dabbed my mouth with the napkin with me and set it aside as I made my way to my room. Laying on my bed, I sighed as I closed my eyes.

    It¡¯s his father¡¯s house and he¡¯s weed anytime he wants to show up but why does it have to be now? Why does he have to leave LA for San Francisco now?

    Questions kept running through my mind as I tossed and turned on my bed. All efforts to try and sleep proved futile as I couldn¡¯t stop myself from thinking.

    Finally clutching my pillow, I closed my eyes and tossed all my intrusive thoughts to the back of my mind as I tried to sleep.

    MASON¡¯S POV

    The thought of going back to San Francisco seemed refreshing and I had no idea why but I felt some kind of excitement.

    I missed everything about that ce, it held a lot of memories and I silently prayed that I would be able to live the memories again but happily this time, more than thest time.

    ***

    TWO DAYS LATERContent ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    Getting out of the ne and boarding a taxi, I finally got home. I was able to move back to San Francisco because ourpany opened a new branch here and I was granted the opportunity of being the CEO and everything about the branch was handed to me.

    I never really had anything worthwhile in California and when thepany told me that a penthouse was provided for me already, I was d.

    Also, I wanted to see Ava. I missed her badly that it hurts deeply and I just knew that being here would create an opportunity for that.

    I couldn¡¯t help but think about how pleasantly surprised my father and stepmom would be because they never stopped telling me how much they missed me.

    They were really excited when I told them I wasing home and to be able to surprise them to my satisfaction I thought of arriving a day earlier than I¡¯d mentioned to them.

    I got homete and they all looked like they were getting ready. Ava¡¯s mum screamed when she saw me and my dad hurriedly hugged me.

    ¡°I thought you were supposed to show up tomorrow?¡± He asked and I smiled as I told him that I¡¯d thought against it and just wanted to surprise them.

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s really a pleasant surprise, we missed you so much,¡± my stepmom said as she held my hand and led me into the house, e in, oh my god! How are you?¡± She asked.

    I¡¯d wanted to answer her when Ava walked out of the kitchen with a cup in her hand and my jaw dropped. I had no idea she was in the house and she looked extremely gorgeous just like she always does.

    She also looked as shocked to see me as I am to see her but she soon shook it off as we all sat at the dinner table to eat.

    Dinner was a little bit awkward since it was more of Ava and I avoiding each other¡¯s gaze throughout dinner. I¡¯d told my father I wanted to go out with the guys but I wasn¡¯t allowed to.

    Entering into my old room, all the happy memories I made with Ava in here came rushing at me andying in my bed, I closed my eyes as I savoured it.

    Unable to take it anymore, I stood to leave my room to go to Ava¡¯s because I knew sleeping would be extremely difficult here. Bracing myself, I knocked and she opened the door as soon as I knocked looking shocked.

    She wasn¡¯t expecting me to be the one at the door.

    ¡°What do you want?¡± She asked coldly and I was taken aback at first but I understood her.

    ¡°To see you,¡± I answered and she turned to close the door immediately but I stopped her, ¡°please.¡± I begged and after much persuasion she finally allowed me in.

 Chapter 89

    Mason¡¯s POV

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I remarked when she finally allowed me into her room and it looked pretty much the same just as I remembered it except there were little touches there and it doesn¡¯t really look like much.

    Sitting, we both got to talking and I asked her about how she got here and since when she¡¯d been around since no one told me anything about her presence.

    She seemed to have shut me outpletely out of her life, she kept things from me and wouldn¡¯t talk to me and it hurts but I wasn¡¯t mad because I knew how much pain I¡¯d caused her and expecting her to just run into my arms would be absurd.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ve been here for over six months now and things have been pretty great, better than it was in LA,¡± she answered and I smiled as I watched her talk.

    Seeing her now was beautiful and it seemed as though all the colors my world had lost were now restored. Staring at her is enough therapy and I just want to do things¡­ to her.

    ¡°And now I work in a smallpany but it¡¯s great and everyone over there is friendly and weing.¡± Her sweet voice jolted me out of my thoughts and I blinked multiple times as I shook my head to stop myself from thinking.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m really sorry for the way I acted at our dinner months ago,¡± I started and I could see her lip curve into a small smile.

    ¡°It was so insensitive of me and I should¡¯ve been more reasonable instead of suggesting something as stupid as that.¡± I finished and she shrugged.

    Brushing me off, she asked me to stop apologizing and just leave the past in the past and a tiny part of me wished she was also referring to what had happened between us.

    Could we also just leave that in the past and start all over again?

    I wanted to start all over again, I wanted us to give it another chance and this time I know I¡¯ll get it right, I know I wouldn¡¯t act so stupid with her and lose her again.

    We talked for a while and it was killing me to tell her about how I feel about her but I was too much of a coward to talk about it since she didn¡¯t bring it up either.

    Sighing, we finished talking and she walked me out of her room. I haven¡¯t felt this relieved and at peace in years and I knew it was because of Ava.

    ¡°Goodnight, Mason.¡± She said, her lips called out to me and I just wanted to lean into her and kiss her before saying my own goodbye but I couldn¡¯t do that either.

    ¡°Goodnight.¡± I replied softly before turning to leave for my room.

    ***

    Finally settling into my penthouse, work started immediately and I got so engrossed that I barely even had enough time for myself.

    I had no idea being a CEO came with a lot of pressure and responsibilities, I¡¯d thought I could handle it until I got to know how many meetings I attended in a day.

    Thepany also needs me to approve some projects and I also have to be there when each department is pitching their ideas.

    It was exhausting but I enjoyed it because I¡¯ve always felt like life wouldn¡¯t be that much a burden if you stress yourself out by yourself and so that was what I did until my phone rang.

    I picked it up to see that it was a call from my dad and he¡¯d called to check on me. I checked on my stepmom too and she sounded happy to see me and that was when it hit me.

    Ava! I haven¡¯t called or talked to her in a while. Pinching the bridge of my nose I scrolled through my contact list and I finally found her number.

    With each sound my phone made my heart would skip a beat and I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about the kind of man she must think that I am.

    ¡°Hey Mason!¡± She answered her phone cheerily and I was taken aback a little bit. I liked the tone and it made me want her even more.

    We talked on the phone for a while and I invited her out for a cup of coffee which she obliged to and I couldn¡¯t be happier.

    We hung out and it was the nicest coffee date I¡¯ve ever been to. We spoke about our parents¡¯ rtionship and also about my newpany and how running it as the CEO has been going.

    ¡°Well, you could get it to the right ce and I wouldn¡¯t mind working for you.¡± She joked and we bothughed.

    It¡¯s been a while since I heard the sound of herughter and it sounded like pleasing music to my ears.

    How could I have been a fool to let her go the first time?

    I¡¯m trying to get her back and this time no matter how bad it kills me, I will never ever let her go like I did the first time.

    We finished talking and I walked her to her car as I watched her drive off.

    We continued talking for a while and even made it a habit to go out together for a cup of coffee or lunch once every week.

    I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that I was still madly in love with her, I wanted her with every ounce of me and I couldn¡¯t deny it.

    I¡¯ve always been in love with her ever since but I¡¯ve been too scared to admit it to myself or to anyone so I never really told her because I¡¯d thought my actions would do the talking but not anymore.

    Hanging out with her these past days has changed a lot about me, she brings out the best in me and for her I¡¯ve always wanted to be a better person.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    Maybe that¡¯s the right thing to do, maybe I just have to change who I was and be the better version of myself so I can finally get to tell and also show her how much she means to me.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, you can do it.¡± I whispered to myself before closing my eyes to try and sleep.

 Chapter 90

    Ava¡¯s POV

    It¡¯s been two months since Mason and I started going out all over again and I badly want to kiss him. I wanted to feel his soft lips on mine again just like I usually do years ago.

    It might¡¯ve been years but I still remember how soft his lips were, how safe I usually feel in his arms and how happy I always am whenever he was anywhere around.

    I¡¯ve changed in the space of two months and it was because of me, after all these years he still had this much effect on me and he still is able to make me as happy as ever.

    It took everything in me, all of my self control to not smack my lips on his and kiss him because I had no idea how he feels about me.

    Does he still love me or he¡¯s just feeling guilty and is asking me out because of that?

    I¡¯d wanted to move out of our parents house and get an apartment of my own since I¡¯ve saved up enough money to get my own apartment.

    ¡°You¡¯re moving out?¡± He asked as he took a sip of his coffee and I nodded affirmatively, the way his hand fiddled with the cup, the way he held it carefully and set it down gently made a smile escape my lips.

    ¡°I feel like I need to leave and since I¡¯ve saved up enough, I can finally have an apartment of my own.¡± I answered and he smiled before his eyes lit up.

    I knew that look, it was the look he gave whenever he had an idea or was about to talk about something he loves. I still remember a lot about him.

    ¡°You know what?¡± He started and I raised an eyebrow, ¡°why not move into my penthouse with me?¡± He added and I tilted my head to the side.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Oh no, no, I don¡¯t mean it that way,¡± he hurriedly exined, ¡°it¡¯s just the penthouse is so big and empty and sometimes I feel like I¡¯ll get lost in the emptiness.¡± He added and we bothughed.

    ¡°This isn¡¯t charity, Ava. You won¡¯t be taking up much space, hell, you wouldn¡¯t even be taking any space at all and if it makes you feelfortable you can pay rent. I¡¯ll take it.¡± He finished as his eyes searched mine.

    I¡¯d decided to scare him a little bit by putting up a front but I knew deep down that I¡¯d already agreed to staying with him.

    ¡°Wow,¡± I sighed as I averted his eyes, ¡°I really thought you¡¯ve changed and¡­¡± I continued as I looked at him again and his eyes widened as his mouth dropped open.

    He¡¯d wanted to say something when I raised my hand to ask him to not say anything until I¡¯m done talking.

    ¡°You say this isn¡¯t charity and you¡¯re here sitting in front of me and acting like you can pull me out of this shithole I¡¯m deep in.¡± I added and his mouth opened even more.

    ¡°Ava, I swear it¡¯s¡­¡± I couldn¡¯t hold it anymore as I covered my mouth and bursted into an uncontrobleughter that made him let out a sigh of relief.

    ¡°You were joking? C¡¯mon.¡± He growled as he rested his back against the chair, ¡°you got me.¡± He added before joining me inughing.

    ¡°You should see your face,¡± I said amidstughter. I haven¡¯tughed this good in years, ¡°of course I¡¯ll live with you.¡± I finally agreed and he smiled as he stared at me.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± He said impulsively and when I¡¯d asked why he was thanking me for, he didn¡¯t say anything.

    The day went by quickly and we both headed back to our various homes, I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about him and how I¡¯d finally be moving in with him.

    The day came and I had my bags all packed already as I got ready to move into my new shared apartment.

    ¡°Did you talk your feelings out with Mason yet?¡± My mother asked and I turned to look at her. I couldn¡¯t miss the look of pity and worry that was written on her face.

    ¡°No.¡± I answered slightly as I moved my hair to the back of my ear since the humidity was messing with it.

    ¡°You¡¯ll be fine, I believe you both are adults and can handle things like this yourselves.¡± She smiled and I returned it.

    I know she had no problem with my previous history with Mason since we¡¯re not blood rted and she knew how we never for once saw each other as siblings.

    She was just surprised at how we escaped the siblings¡¯ check and fell in love with each other but she didn¡¯t scold or judge me about it, instead she offered advice.

    ¡°Be careful.¡± Her voice put a halt to my thoughts and I told her I would as I got into my car and drove off to Mason¡¯s, he¡¯d sent the address to me already.

    Soon, I started unpacking my things and just as Mason had said, the penthouse was really big and the room he¡¯d given to me was also big and veryfortable.

    He helped me unpack and didn¡¯t leave until I was done packing. He also made dinner while I showered and put onfortable clothing.

    I went downstairs to join him at the table and he had the biggest, brightest and cutest smile I¡¯ve ever seen as he gestured for me to sit down.

    Dinner went well and it wasn¡¯t long until we finished eating and I¡¯d wanted to retire to bed when I turned to look at him again.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I smiled and he stood to walk towards me and I couldn¡¯t help but watch as he stopped in front of me.

    I could swear that my heart stopped when he leaned into me and moved the strand of hair that fell on my face away.

    ¡°I¡¯m really happy you¡¯re here.¡± He beamed, that was the umpteenth time he¡¯d tell me that and I knew I was blushing because my cheeks were burning.

    ¡°Can I hug you?¡± He asked and I nodded as he pulled me into him for a hug. I missed it, I felt safe and warm and his scent is mesmerizing.

    I didn¡¯t want the hug to end.

 Chapter 91

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I retired to bed with a smile on my face. I couldn¡¯t kiss him but I was d for the long hug we shared. I didn¡¯t want to let go of him but we both had to go to sleep.

    My heart felt calm and at peace and a happiness like this was one I silently prayed that would remain like this. I was really happy because of how much Mason and I have grown and how I no longer harbor any hatred for him in my heart.

    I felt free after a long time and smiling, I closed my eyes and tried to sleep.

    The ring sound of my bedside rm jolted me awake and I soon started getting ready for work. I looked at my time and I was still too early.

    Walking downstairs, I was greeted with a sweet scent and I looked to see that the table was set already and Mason was also dressed up for work. We both had breakfast together and it wasn¡¯t as awkward as it usually was.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, can I drop you off at work and I can alsoe pick you up when you get off work too.¡± He suggested and the butterflies in my stomach increased.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    He¡¯s bing really sweet and gentle but the help he¡¯s offered me was more than enough because I didn¡¯t want to feel like I was living off of him.

    ¡°Oh no, it¡¯s fine. You¡¯ve done so much for me already and dropping me off and picking me up at work would be extra.¡± I answered, nicely refusing his cute gesture but he only shrugged.

    ¡°You can buy us dinner tonight as a pay back, don¡¯t think I¡¯ll do things for free.¡± He smiled as he moved the fork to his mouth and got the pancake off it.

    I refused but it was hard telling Mason No because he doesn¡¯t take it for an answer and after much pressure from him, I finally agreed.

    ¡°It¡¯s a good thing to not take No for an answer.¡± He smiled proudly and I rolled my eyes as I told him not to tter himself.

    He drove me to work and he¡¯d even asked that I have a nice day at work. I watched as he drove off and my colleague standing behind me made me jump.

    ¡°Why the hell are you behind me?¡± I asked as I clutched my chest as I looked her up and down, she was still staring at the direction Mason had gone.

    ¡°Is he your boyfriend?¡± She asked, not looking away from where she was looking at but she somehow managed to move her head when I told her that Mason isn¡¯t my boyfriend.

    ¡°Oh really, that¡¯s nice,¡± she started and I raised an eyebrow, ¡°if he¡¯s not yours then you can set us up, right?¡± She added and my blood boiled.

    Not wanting to say anything to her, I walked out on her and went into thepany as I went about my work.

    The day was stressful and I was d it had ended already, I walked out of thepany to see Mason already waiting for me.

    He was on his phone and pacing around, waiting for me. I smiled as I approached him and his eyes lit up the moment he saw me.

    We got into his car and he drove off, we¡¯d both agreed on having dinner at a Chinese restaurant that he chose.

    We walked into the restaurant and I felt nostalgic. It was the same restaurant that I¡¯d found out about his trip away from the country and it brought back lots of memories.

    Shaking the thoughts away from my head, we chose a table and sat at it while one of the waitresses took our order.

    ¡°So, honestly, why are you still single?¡± I asked, I¡¯d thought it would be a great conversation started and I¡¯d almost regret it the moment it rolled out my tongue.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious?¡± He shrugged, ¡°because my heart belongs to someone.¡± He added and I felt as though a knife had ripped through my heart.

    He had another woman in mind and she isn¡¯t me? Why did I ever think that he feels the same way about me like I do about him?

    ¡°Great, you must have so many women lined up to get on your bed.¡± Imented as I took a gulp of my wine and finished it all at once as heughed.

    I told him about the woman at my workce who¡¯d seen him and asked that I hook them up, I brought my ss to my mouth forgetting that I finished the content already and Masonughed.

    ¡°Is that Jealousy I smell?¡± He sniffed amidstughter and I shot him a re. We concentrated on our food and it wasn¡¯t long until we finished eating and drove back home.

    ¡°Can you join me for a movie? I¡¯m not feeling sleepy yet.¡± I invited and he didn¡¯t turn me down. We sat close to each other as I picked out the movie we watched.

    I told him that I already told my mum everything that happened between us that she now knows about our rtionship but she didn¡¯t get mad at us.

    He rxed for a while and asked about Nicole, we talked about her and I told him about how life has been going on well for her and she also has a child now too.

    We kept talking and I asked about his friends, he told me about them and I felt left out. I felt like the one who hasn¡¯t gotten her life together but I was d I¡¯m doing fine now.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry but I¡¯m still curious about your marriage. What happened?¡± He asked and my heart broke again. I¡¯ve always tried to avoid talking about it.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about it.¡± I gurgled before turning the TV off and walking to my room. Holding my chest, Iid on my bed and cried myself to sleep.

 Chapter 92

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Mason picking me up and dropping me off at work went on for two more days and it was so obvious that almost all of my colleagues would mistake him for my boyfriend.

    He¡¯d pick me up and we¡¯ll both go have dinner together or maybe order take outs and watch movies together. I found myself seeking sce in Mason¡¯s presence just like old times.

    I wouldn¡¯t lie about the fact that I enjoyed his presence and the fact that sometimes I just wanted him to hold me till I fell asleep and woke up in his arms.

    After a while of asking about what happened between my husband and I, Mason soon stopped and he didn¡¯t even pester me about it anymore. I knew he was curious but he¡¯d genuinely cautioned himself to not bring it up again.

    It was almost like when we first met and I asked about his mother, he wouldn¡¯t say a thing about her to me and despite my persistence and curiosity he still kept me in the dark until he was ready to talk.

    It¡¯s the same thing, I felt ufortable talking about my ex husband at the moment but I knew I would be able to wrap my head around it soon and just talk about it.

    The day we¡¯d all decided to go for a pic as a family was fast approaching and just like the very first day I agreed to go on that beach trip with Mason, I had nothing to wear.

    Going to the mall, I shopped forfortable clothings and a little bit of makeup. It was quite lonely because I went alone and it wasn¡¯t as fun as shopping used to be.

    The week went by really quickly and the weekend we¡¯d selected for the pic came. I went with Mason, Danny and my mum and it was quite enjoyable.

    We brought food and made a fire and at some point we sang our hearts out until it was time for the parents to tell their stories. I couldn¡¯t stopughing when Danny¡¯s story came out a total fail but my mum¡¯s story was good.

    It was so good that whenever we heard any rattle we would turn at once and switch our phone¡¯s shlight on.

    ¡°That was really good, I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m actually scared.¡± Masonmented and just at that moment I touched his shoulders and he fell on his back as we all bursted outughing.

    We sat around the fire to keep warm for a while before finally deciding to go to bed and that was when I realized that we didn¡¯t have enough tents. I¡¯d thought Danny would share the tent with Mason but he didn¡¯t.

    ¡°You both try not to chop your heads off, Goodnight.¡± He said before walking into the tents with my mother and a slight smile formed on my lips.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    I knew it was a n between Danny and my mother and they wanted Mason and I to spend the night in the same tent on purpose.

    ¡°I¡¯m not sleepy yet, are you?¡± Mason¡¯s voice jolted me out of my thoughts and I turned to look at him as I shook my head negatively.

    I also wasn¡¯t feeling sleepy yet.

    ¡°Cool, have a drink with me?¡± It came out more like a question than a statement and I agreed. I took the beer from him and lifted my head to watch the stars as I drank.

    ¡°Still as beautiful as always, they never let anything make them ugly.¡± I sighed as I drank thest one of my beer.

    ¡°Just like you,¡± he replied and I turned to look at him with raised eyebrows, ¡°you¡¯re just like the stars.¡± He continued.

    ¡°You might have had it rough and I know that life hasn¡¯t been easy for you but you turned out beautiful and trust me, you¡¯re one hell of a strong woman.¡± He added as he got on his feet and walked towards me.

    ¡°I¡¯m really proud of you.¡± He finished before leaning into me and ced his lips on my forehead as I closed my eyes. The sound of footsteps made me open my eyes and I could tell that he¡¯s gone into the tent already.

    Still staring at the stars, I heard footsteps and turned to see Danny behind me, he walked towards me with both hands in his pocket and a smile on his face.

    How can he still be smiling at me when I¡¯ve disappointed him like this?

    We soon got to talking and he asked me to be happy no matter what since happiness is one big factor we shouldn¡¯t let anything take away from us.

    ¡°Why?¡± I asked, ¡°why didn¡¯t you scold me or say something when you got to know about the fact that Mason and I dated?¡± I enquired and heughed slightly.

    ¡°Why will I do that when I know none of us have no control of our own hearts? The heart wants what it wants and it won¡¯t stop until it gets it so why on earth would I want to punish you for an offense that isn¡¯t even your fault?¡± He exined and I could feel the hot tears at the back of my eyes.

    ¡°Thank you¡­. Thank you so much for being understanding.¡± My voice broke as I spoke and he nodded.

    ¡°What about now? Do you still love him now?¡± He asked and I shrugged as I dried my tears.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I still do but all I know right now is that I¡¯m trying to keep away from men and just live for myself.¡± I answered and he snickered.

    He asked why I got a divorce, I never really told anyone what went wrong in my marriage or how my ex husband treated me so they were all curious.

    ¡°I did it for myself, my mental health and my happiness.¡± I answered with a yawn. Turning to look at Danny, I hugged him before walking inside the tent to sleep.

 Chapter 93

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The pic went well and it was enjoyable for all of us that neither of us wanted it to end. I enjoyed spending more time with Danny and we got even closer than we were before but we all had to go back home and resume duties.

    Just like every other night that I¡¯ll get off work early, Mason and I ordered take outs and stayed in to watch movies since neither of us would be going to work the next day.

    Halfway into the movie, Mason fell asleep and his head on my shoulder, the way his breath brushed the side of my neck and his slight snores got me lost as I stared at his beautiful face.

    Not wanting to disrupt his sleep, I let him sleep on my shoulders and watched him until I fell asleep too and we woke up in each other¡¯s arms.

    We didn¡¯t think of it as a big deal and soon we both became addicted to cuddling, holding each other and talking till we fell asleep. It became something we both craved for, our arms became a sce for the both of us.

    I felt like a Princess whenever Mason was around, he would treat me with care and sometimes refer to me as a ss that should be handled gently, he once promised to never let me break again and that made my heart flutter.

    I want him so much, I want every inch of him, every part of him and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that the longing I felt was always obvious in Mason¡¯s face.

    My whole being seemed to be filled with waiting and whenever I set my eyes on him the only emotion I feel is always relief.

    I always notice him staring at me intently to an extent that I had to fight my own overwhelming need to be close to him. What we both felt for each other was obvious but we didn¡¯t want to ruin what we have going on.

    We never made a move on each other despite my dying need to and we kept our emotions at bay since we didn¡¯t need to move it higher than it currently is.

    I knew what¡¯s happening, I could see and feel it and I know damn well that I¡¯m falling in love with Mason all over again. It was like a movie where both leads have a fall out but somehow destiny would manage to patch them back up again.

    Whoever he¡¯s not around, I miss him. I stay upte into the night if he has things to do at the office and is unable to pick me up. I always just wanted him around me.

    But I was also scared, scared that I¡¯ll get hurt like thest time or even worse but I couldn¡¯t help it. I couldn¡¯t help myself, my heart called out to him and my body yearned for him.

    It was the rainy season all over again and just when I was starting to fall asleep, the rain started pouring and sleeping became hard for me.

    My heart raced and my phobia for thunderstorms skyrocketed when a loud thunder struck. Suppressing my scream, I clutched my chest tightly and tried to sleep again but I couldn¡¯t.

    Giving up, I took my nket and walked to the living room. It was pitch dark and I was all alone. I listened to the rain pour and despite covering my ears to stop hearing the sounds, I could still hear them.

    I couldn¡¯t help but think about when I was married, my ex husband never helped me through it, he thought I was being childish and even when there was a big thunderstorm, he wouldn¡¯t do as little as hold me and would ask me to deal with it.

    FLASHBACK

    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you? You¡¯re not a child, get out of your head and leave me the hell alone!¡± He yelled at me and I jumped.

    I had no idea if it was his voice or the thunderstorm that made me even more scared. It was raining really hard outside and I tried to deal with it but I couldn¡¯t do it alone.

    ¡°P¡­ please, just this night.¡± I begged him, my heartbeat was racing and I could hear it thumping as though it was going to jump out of my chest.

    Without saying a word, he pushed me out of his hold and walked away, leaving me alone on the floor. I started finding it hard to breathe.

    My head hurt so much and my eyes began to spin as I prayed for the rain to stop, ¡°please, please.¡± I let out in a whisper.

    ****

    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re fine. You¡¯re going to be okay.¡± I heard a familiar voice say in a hushed tone and I opened my eyes to see Mason holding me, he looked relieved when I opened my eyes.

    ¡°Mason?¡± I called and he nodded as he lifted me from the floor and ced me on the chair so that I was sitting beside him.

    ¡°W¡­ what are you doing here?¡± I stammered, I¡¯d thought he was asleep and I wasn¡¯t expecting him to be out here with me by this time.

    ¡°Because it¡¯s raining and I know you¡¯ll be unable to sleep.¡± He answered with a smile as he smoothened my hair with his fingers.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    My heart fluttered and the butterflies in my stomach grew at his thoughtfulness. It¡¯s been years and I really thought he might¡¯ve forgotten but he remembered.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I whispered as I ced my head on his shoulder impulsively. He took the nket from me and wrapped the both of us in it.

    I knew the warmth I¡¯m feeling now isn¡¯ting from the nket but from his body. cing my hand on his chest, I felt it beating and a smile formed on my lips when he held me closely to him.

    Closing my eyes, I listened to the rain pour but I¡¯m not scared anymore. I held him tighter and soon my eyes felt tired as they began to close.

 Chapter 94

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I got ready for work and Mason couldn¡¯t drop me off today but I got lucky because I was going with my boss. He¡¯d announced that we were going to anotherpany together for a meeting.

    Preparing his paper works and a schedule for the meeting, I finally went to inform him that we¡¯d better get going if we want to get to thepany for the meeting early and he agreed with me.

    We left and it wasn¡¯t long until we got to thepany, it turned out to be Mason¡¯spany and although I¡¯d decided to be professional a part of me was excited to see him.

    Mason got out of his office and my jaw dropped the moment he stepped out, I had no idea why but he looked hotter than he usually does.

    His tie was perfectly made and his suit fitted him perfectly, he carried himself with a perfect poise and his back was straight.

    Smiling, he approached us and my boss excused himself as the two men got to talking. I tried to look away from him but it seemed as though my eyes were already glued on him.

    Our eyes met and he didn¡¯t look away from me as he kept up with his conversation with my boss, I briefly looked away and our eyes met again when I looked back at him and he smiled.

    I could feel my cheeks burning and I knew that I was blushing really hard. Taking another nce at him, heughed and I turned away from him immediately as I hurried to the restroom.

    Why is he having this kind of effect on me?

    Sshing my face with water, I pped myself gently multiple times to bring myself out of my head and for a moment it worked until I saw him again.

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve been searching all over for you,¡± my boss pointed out as soon as I got out of the bathroom, ¡°you need to have a personal meeting with Mr. Mason here.¡± He added and my eyes widened.

    I had no idea why he¡¯d set up a meeting for us, ¡°why?¡± I enquired and he told me about how they¡¯ve been talking and since this was a temporary job, Mason would like to offer a permanent one.

    He asked me to finish up with things hurriedly and talk to Mason before leaving us together. He had no idea that we knew each other.

    Finishing up, Mason and I walked to the cafeteria in thepany and we had lunch together. Thepany was magnificent and I didn¡¯t think it would be this big.

    ¡°Honestly, this is just beautiful,¡± Iplimented with my mouth stuffed with food that I forced myself to swallow.

    ¡°It¡¯s really beautiful, the interior and exterior design. You must¡¯ve spent a lot to get it to look like this.¡± I added and he justughed slightly as he cleared his throat.

    ¡°What do you think about my offer? Do you like it?¡± He asked and I coughed as I raised an eyebrow. I didn¡¯t think he was serious about offering me a job here.

    ¡°Oh my god! You were serious about that? I thought it was some sort of joke.¡± I pointed out and he smirked.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t possibly have made a joke about something like this,¡± he shrugged as I stared at him, ¡°I¡¯m serious and I¡¯m really willing to offer you a job but that is if you want it.¡± He added.

    ¡°Thank you so much but I still have to think about it.¡± I replied and he told me that there was no pressure and I could take as much time as I needed.

    We finished up with the deal we¡¯de to Mason¡¯spany to seal in the first ce and my boss left to wait for me when Mason said he needed to talk to me.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be workingte today,¡± he started as he moved the strand of hair on my face that seemed to be disturbing me, ¡°don¡¯t wait up for me and just go home, okay?¡± He added and I nodded.

    Smiling, I left thepany and I couldn¡¯t be any more grateful when my boss offered to drop me off at home.

    The house was empty and I felt alone in the big apartment. Mason wasn¡¯t exaggerating when he told me about how big the house was.

    Scrolling through my contacts, I¡¯d wanted to call him and ask if he was okay but I also didn¡¯t want to disturb his work since he already told me he¡¯d be workingte.

    Making dinner for myself, I thought he was going to have to pass the night at the office and the next time I¡¯ll get to see him would be tomorrow.

    Laying on my bed, I closed my eyes to sleep when the rain started falling. I put the covers over my head and buried my face in the pillow to keep from hearing the sounds but I could still hear it.

    I didn¡¯t want to go to the living room so I justid on my bed as the horrible memories attached to my phobia came flooding me.

    The news of my father dying in the thunderstorm kept reying in my head, ¡°Dad! No!¡± I cried, shaking and holding onto the bedpost for support.

    My breath soon started bing short and my chest started hurting, my head spun and I felt weak. Removing my hand from the bedpost, I fell on the floor as I tried to regte my breathing but nothing worked and the tears began flowing freely.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    My door flung open and I opened my eyes slightly to see Mason, he lifted me from the floor andid me on the bed as he slept beside me.

    His clothes were wet and that caused the bed to be wet too but I didn¡¯t care, I was just d that he¡¯s around. Not letting go, I cried in his hold as I hugged him and he only stroked my hair and patted my back lightly.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± He whispered as he apologized for beingte, he pecked my forehead and I hung onto his shirt as I closed my eyes.

 Chapter 95

    Ava¡¯s POV

    It kept going on for three more days. The rain wouldn¡¯t stop falling but I wasfortable because Mason would slip into bed with me andfort me.

    Anytime it rained hard, he woulde into my room and pat my back and also stroke my hair lightly. He never said anything else or asked me questions and I was grateful for that.

    I felt safe in his arms and it would have been unusual if his arms weren¡¯t my safe haven before. It grew even more intense and I know damn well that I was falling knee deep in love with him.

    I¡¯m head over heels for him but I couldn¡¯t possibly tell him that because I was scared, he could hurt me again just like he did before.

    I¡¯d shut my heart off men and I¡¯d even promised myself not to allow myself to be hurt by any man again but Mason just seemed different.

    It seemed as though I would bail and be unable to keep to my own end of my bargain. Closing my eyes, I took in the sweet masculine scent of his body.

    My pussy throbbed and I felt a drip, it wasn¡¯t the first time my body would react to Mason but it was the first time in a long time that my body would react to anyone.

    Staring at his lips while he closed his eyes and pressed his head against the bedpost, I swallowed hard. I wanted to press my lip against his and the way he gave it a slight lick didn¡¯t help.

    ¡°Why?¡± I started and he flung his eyes open at once, making me look away, ¡°why are you still here and going through the stress of staying with me?¡± I asked and he smiled, patted my hair and kissed it.

    ¡°Because I can¡¯t stand you being in distress without doing anything.¡± He answered as he brought up his hand to check the time.

    ¡°It¡¯s better now, let¡¯s go or we¡¯ll bete for work.¡± He pointed out and I stood as we both walked out of my bedroom.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I muttered before throwing myself at him in a hug and he asked me not to mention and that it¡¯s okay.

    We both left and he dropped me off at work. I tried to stop thinking about him but I couldn¡¯t, whatever I do my mind always finds a way to drift off to him.

    How he¡¯s being gentle, kind and sweet to me, I couldn¡¯t really concentrate on my work because I was thinking about him and couldn¡¯t wait for him toe pick me up.

    The day went by quickly and I rushed out of my office. I was d when I met him outside waiting for me. Smiling, he opened the door for me and I got in.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

    The week went on fast and it¡¯s almost the weekend. Mason came to pick me up from work as usual and suggested we go to the club that night with some of his friends and I agreed.

    We drove home and soon started getting ready. I was stressed out and the club seemed like the perfect ce to blow off steam.

    I picked out a short red gown and shoes to match, dabbed my lipstick on and let my hair loose so that it was falling on my shoulders.

    We soon got to the club and I was moving my head to the music while Mason had fun with his friends and drank.

    ¡°Hey beautiful,¡± I heard an unfamiliar voice call and I soon saw a guy in front of me, he wasn¡¯t looking so bad. He¡¯s good looking too and has some nice features.

    ¡°What are you doing sitting down alone?¡± He asked and I snickered, ¡°are you alone?¡± He asked again and I shook my head, ¡°if you don¡¯t mind, would you like to dance with me?¡± He asked after I told him I wasn¡¯t alone.

    ¡°No!¡± Mason¡¯s voice came before I could even get the chance to answer, ¡°you spend one more minute here and you¡¯ll regret it.¡± He added and after a while of the guy staring at me, he left.

    It went on for a while and Mason kept telling all of the guys off, telling them I¡¯m a divorcee and they shouldn¡¯t be flirting with me.

    I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me he was doing all that out of jealousy and it made me feel giddy.

    He went back to his friends while I went to the dance floor. I was a little bit tipsy and already enjoying myself when Mason came and scared the guy I was dancing with away.

    ¡°We¡¯re leaving.¡± He said firmly before pulling me out of the club and we drove home.

    He was still holding my hand by the time we got into the house and I jerked my hand away from his hold, I was furious.

    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you?! Why are you being ridiculous?!¡± I yelled at him, ¡°I¡¯m not a child.¡± I added firmly, hissing and snapping at him.

    Waiting for him to say something to defend himself, an exnation as to why he was so protective of me and wouldn¡¯t let me have fun but he didn¡¯t say anything.

    ¡°You were jealous? Are you even supposed to be jealous?!¡± I asked and his mouth dropped open at once as he tried to deny my allegations.

    ¡°Fine, I was jealous.¡± He replied defeated as he took a step closer to me.

    ¡°But, Why?!¡±

    ¡°You already know why!¡± He yelled back and I jumped for a moment, he was now standing in front of me that we were only one inch apart.

    Without thinking and mesmerized by his lips, I took a step closer to him and kissed him. I missed the taste of his lip. Realizing what I¡¯d done, I pulled away immediately.

    What¡¯s going on with me?

    I turned to leave when I felt a hard pull back and I almost fell on him as my lips smacked back on his and my heart soared.

    I love this feeling.

 Chapter 96

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The rtionship between Mason and I changed that instant and I felt like I was in heaven as I closed my eyes and savored the sweetness I was feeling.

    The butterflies in my stomach increased and I melted in his arms, his grip around my waist was strong as he kissed me.

    He pulled away and my eyes fluttered open as I stared at him, touching my face and moving the strand of hair on my face, he kissed me again before pulling away.

    ¡°You know why.¡± He whispered and I looked away. Of course I knew why he was jealous. I was so stupid to think he had someone else in his heart.

    Everything about us changed and we began to kiss more often and soon, we were making out wherever we wanted to.

    ¡°We can¡¯t bete!¡± I called out to him and just when I called out to him, he came down the stairs as he tried to do his cuff link but couldn¡¯t so I helped him.

    ¡°With you, do you really think we¡¯ll bete?¡± He asked as he leaned down to me and Iughed slightly before he imed my mouth with his.

    It started off like a casual kiss and soon we were kissing each other harder than we¡¯re supposed to. We both fell on the couch before we realized we were supposed to be out of the house in five minutes.

    Laughing, I took his hand and we both left the house and got into the car. We drove to the restaurant and our parents were already there waiting for us.

    We wanted to celebrate Danny¡¯s retirement and my mum had been calling to remind us about it. She was disappointed when we showed upte.

    We celebrated and it was nice as Danny talked about all of the things he¡¯s been waiting to do and can finally do, especially with my mum.

    The dinner went well and soon the day was over, Mason and I handed over the gift that I¡¯d forced us to buy for Danny and he was delighted.

    We drove back home and neither of us could wait till we got inside before we started kissing. Laying on the couch, Mason ced his weight on me as he kept kissing me, his tongue nibbled on my nipples as his fingers twirled inside me.

    Make outs was pretty much all we did and we both enjoyed it and we¡¯d also decided to take it slow and not rush into sex.

    I had the week off work and Mason too had decided to take a week off work so he could be with me. Closing my eyes, he told me he had a surprise for me.

    ¡°No peeping.¡± He cautioned as he helped me out of his room and down the stairs. I was left wondering what the surprise might be.

    We got to the living room and he opened my eyes, he was holding two movie tickets and I couldn¡¯t help but smile at how he remembered how much I¡¯ve been wanting to see this movie.

    Everything with Mason was blissful and although neither of us really concentrated on the movie because we were both focused on each other more than the movie.

    The movie ended and we both went home, I couldn¡¯t wait to have him. The prolonged anticipation was almost unbearable and a sense of urgency drove me.

    Everything about him made me desire to grow, my body ached for his touch and I wanted to be crushed in his embrace.

    We got home and he imed my lips as he pulled me closer to him, his tongue sent shivers of Desiree racing through me and my legs felt weak at once.

    Still kissing him, my feet left the ground and I was in his arms, he carried me till we got to his room and dumped me on the bed as heid on me.

    Ripping my dress apart, I was surprised at how fast that was and his lips touched my nipple with an arousing possessiveness that made my breast surge at the intimacy of his touch.

    His fingers traced a path from my stomach down to my pussy and moving it to the side beforepletely ripping it apart, his fingers slid inside and my body ached.

    I wanted more than just his fingers, I wanted him, ¡°please.¡± I muttered and I didn¡¯t need to borate before he knew what I was talking about.

    Fumbling with his trousers, I managed to get his belt off and we¡¯re now bothying on the bed naked, I felt his hard cock inside my pussy and I gasped.

    I didn¡¯t remember it to be this big, with each thrust my body yearned for more and each of his strokes made me call out his name in desire.

    I didn¡¯t want it to stop, I wanted more of him as my fingers wed at his back and soon our breathing paced. I could feel myself close to climax and his groan told me the same about him.

    We finally had sex for the first time in four years and it was even more intense than I remembered. Fighting to catch our breath, I ced my head on his chest and it didn¡¯t take long for my eyes to get tired.

    ***

    We had to go get our things from Danny¡¯s apartment since him and my mum had decided to go on vacation. He¡¯s always wanted to see the world with my mum and I was d that he was able to do that.

    Packing our things in the box, I found a ne in Mason¡¯s drawer and it was really beautiful. After staring at it for a while, I finally asked who and what it¡¯s for.

    ¡°Wow,¡± he leered at the ne as he took it from me, ¡°it¡¯s been years and I got it for you so I could use it as a symbol of my love for you but I couldn¡¯t.¡± He exined and my heart sank.

    ¡°We really tried to save the rtionship but I guess it wasn¡¯t meant to work out then.¡± I smiled bitterly and he sighed as he put the ne in his pocket.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°It¡¯s all in the past now,¡± he smiled, ¡°and the ne, I¡¯ll give it to you when the time is right.¡± He added before kissing me.

 Chapter 97

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Our rtionship has now grown into something domestic and homey. I was in love with him but I didn¡¯t want to admit it to him, at least not yet.

    I didn¡¯t want to tell him how much I loved him and how much it kills me to miss him. Everything seemed easy and beautiful with him around. I felt like I was in Heaven.

    I could also see it, I knew how much Mason loved me too, he bes overprotective of me whenever I¡¯m around other guys and he doesn¡¯t hesitate to show it.

    We both went about our work and most of the times I have this immense happiness and joy anytime I think about him, he¡¯s the best thing that ever happened to me and I was d that I have him.

    Our parents are gone now, traveled to Hong Kong and wouldn¡¯t be back in a long time. They made sure to call every day via video call and that was enough.

    ¡°How¡¯s it going over there?¡± Mason asked as I tried to make a cup of coffee for myself and they talked for a while before I joined them.

    I asked them how things were and if they were enjoying their trip and they both gave a positive reply, I was happy they had each other.

    My mum stared at me like she wanted to say something but refrained from saying it instead and after talking we hung up.

    ***

    ONE MONTH LATER

    Things have been going really well for us and Mason had just asked me to join him on a business trip. I¡¯d thought I had to deal with my boss before going but to my surprise he let me go with him.

    ¡°You¡¯re sure I can go with him?¡± I asked again wanting to be sure I¡¯d heard him right and it¡¯s not just my mind ying tricks on me.

    ¡°Yes,¡± he answered, swinging his pen around in his fingers, ¡°it¡¯s all a part of experience and I¡¯d be d to allow you experience things like this.¡± He finished and I felt happy.

    ¡°Also, you¡¯ll be working with him as soon as your contract here expires so why not?¡± He added and after thanking him multiple times I left.

    I gave Mason the good news and he was also happy for me although he¡¯d told me already that my boss wouldn¡¯t have a problem with me going with him.

    A day to the trip, we both went out to shop and I got different kinds of bikinis and lingeries. It was a business trip but I knew deep down that it wouldn¡¯t just be a business trip.

    ¡°This would suit you.¡± He pointed out as he picked out a red bikini for me and Iughed.

    ¡°We¡¯ll only be gone for a week, isn¡¯t all of these too much?¡± I asked like I wasn¡¯t also shopping like a crazydy and heughed.

    ¡°Say that to me when we get there.¡± He replied, pulling me closer to him and kissing me.

    The day went by really quickly and I couldn¡¯t wait for our trip together.

    The ring sound from my bedside rm jolted the both of us awake since we slept together and we started getting ready for our trip.

    We got to the airport and boarded our ne, it was almost time for takeoff and I knew Mason was trying his best to ignore the woman sitting beside him but she just wouldn¡¯t stop.

    ¡°You see this woman right here?¡± He asked her and she took a quick nce at me and I snarled at her, ¡°she¡¯s my wife.¡± He added and she rolled her eyes.

    ¡°I don¡¯t see a ring.¡± She replied and my jaw dropped.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to see a ring.¡± He smirked and asked her to steer off him which she did. The ne was about to take off and I felt like throwing up.

    I was so d that I didn¡¯t take the window seat or I would¡¯ve thrown up on everyone around me. Holding Mason tightly, I closed my eyes as I waited for the takeoff.

    I¡¯ve always been scared of height and Mason understood this as he only held me and buried my face in his chest.

    We took off and I was back to normal, the ne had stopped jerking and there was no reason for me to be scared anymore.

    ¡°Is there anything that you¡¯re not scared of?¡± He teased and I hit his rib gently and told him I wasn¡¯t afraid of him.

    The voice of the captain came and he¡¯d told us to fasten our seat belts but it seemed as though Mason had a death wish for the both of us because he loosened his and pulled me out of my seat.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± I asked, ¡°you¡¯re going to get us killed.¡± I added and heughed at me.

    ¡°Chill,¡± he said before opening the door to the bathroom, ¡°this is it.¡± He added before kissing me.

    His wet tongue trailed my neck and I kept wanting more, his lips imed mine back and while I was standing Mason pulled me up and ced me on the bathroom counter.

    I was scared of it breaking at first but he didn¡¯t care and now the only thing I was scared of was my life as he started eating me out.

    My toe curled and I silently hoped I didn¡¯t slip and die because I didn¡¯t want him to stop. His lips fell on mine again and I could taste myself on his lips.

    Pulling off his shirt, ¡°it has always been on my bucket list to have sex on a moving ne.¡± He said breathlessly and Iughed.

    ¡°You still remember everything you wrote on your bucket list?¡±

    ¡°Oh yes, I do,¡± he answered, ¡°I remember yours too.¡± He added before carrying me in his arms and started thrusting into me while he was standing.

    We decided to have a quickie and it was blissful.

 Chapter 98

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We finallynded in the city at around 6PM and holding hands, we checked into a hotel. We were trying to pull off our clothes when we heard a slight knock on the door.

    ¡°Room service.¡± A feminine voice came from outside and when I asked Mason if he ordered anything he shrugged and denied.

    Opening the door, I told thedy not to worry about our food and I was d when she didn¡¯t take any offense and only agreed to return it back to the kitchen.

    Masonid on the bed with his eyes closed and I just couldn¡¯t help but wonder how beautiful he usually looked whenever he¡¯s sleeping.

    yfully, I fell on his chest and he groaned as his eyes snapped open, ¡°stop sleeping and let us go get something to eat.¡± I said, pulling him up.

    He put on a casual round neck top and we both agreed to go and eat out. We still had enough time to hang out and enjoy the city before finallying back to the hotel to rest.

    We got to a nearby restaurant and I couldn¡¯t stop stealing nces at him as we ate, ¡°you know the sex on the ne?¡± I started and he groaned.

    ¡°What about it?¡± He asked with his mouth full of food and Iughed. He already knew me so well, he knew what I wanted to talk about.

    ¡°I know that it¡¯s not on your bucket list.¡± I let out and he faked a gasp as he held his chest dramatically before looking at me with a defeated gaze.

    ¡°Fine it wasn¡¯t because I didn¡¯t write it down but I had it in mind and now it¡¯s ticked off but we definitely have to try it again.¡± He replied amidstughter and I tossed my macaroni at him.

    Our dessert soon came and we had Ice cream and cake, we finished eating and I watched as Mason paid the bill and also put the tip down for the waitress before leaving.

    We explored the city holding hands before catching sight of the carnival holding, it was going to go on tillte at night and we decided to join in.

    It was fun filled and we enjoyed ourselves as we tried almost all of the street food. My stomach was full but I couldn¡¯t stop eating. Everything was so good.

    ¡°I dare you to get the tattoo.¡± Mason dared and I growled at him, it was a fake tattoo but I also didn¡¯t see myself having it.

    ¡°No way!¡± I refused and he raised an eyebrow, I¡¯d wanted to leave but he pulled me back and proposed that we y rock, paper, scissors and if he won then I¡¯ll have no other choice than to do it.

    After thinking about it for a while, I finally agreed and we both yed like kids. Besides the dare that was attached to it, it was a really fun game to y and we were on our final round but there wasn¡¯t a winner.

    ¡°I won!¡± Mason cheered when his paper covered my rock and my mouth dropped open in disbelief, I¡¯d thought I would be the winner.

    ¡°I¡¯m done, I¡¯m not ying anymore.¡± I rolled my eyes and Masonughed before forcing me into the tattoo shop and we both got one.

    It was a matching tattoo and it didn¡¯t look as bad as I thought it was going to be, we spotted an old couple and soon started a conversation with them.

    They told us they¡¯ve been together for fifteen years and a part of me was jealous of them, they shared something so beautiful for fifteen years.

    We took pictures of them and it was beautiful, they in turn insisted they were going to take our pictures too and we allowed them to.

    ¡°How long have you both been married?¡± The older woman asked and Mason and I stared at each other as we took the picture from her.

    It wasn¡¯t a question any of us wanted to answer but they were waiting for a reply and it was already getting a little bit awkward.

    ¡°We¡¯re not married,¡± Mason finally answered, ¡°we¡¯re just really close friends.¡± He added with a smile and the couple nodded.

    ¡°Life is too short to not spend it with the people you love.¡± The man advised us and weughed.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°Really, you both should be together because even us can feel the chemistry that oozes between the both of you,¡± the woman added in support of her husband, ¡°how I wish we were young.¡± She added and they bothughed.

    Leaving, we both walked back to the hotel to call it a night, it¡¯s been a stressful day and we were both tired. We had our bath andid on the bed.

    Mason held onto me tightly like he wasn¡¯t going to ever let go, I could feel his breath on my chest and his slight snores made me snicker.

    He¡¯s absolutely gorgeous.

    I stared at his facial features and I couldn¡¯t help but poke at his nose, he moved a little but never left my chest. He must be really tired because he didn¡¯t even do as little as open his eyes slightly.

    What the hell happened to my life?

    Rubbing his hair, I couldn¡¯t help but think about how and where I went all wrong with my life. I spent years wasting my life in a marriage that ruined me.

    I got married to a man that never loved me when Mason had been waiting for me all his life. He¡¯s been really there and hoping we get back together while I was being mad at him.

    The tears that dropped from my eyes put a halt to my thoughts as I sniffed and kissed his hair before smiling bitterly.

    I really should¡¯ve waited for him despite being mad, I should¡¯ve held out hope and waited for him toe back¡­.

    To me.

 Chapter 99

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I turned on the bed and hoped I was going to hold Mason but I opened my eyes to an empty bed. I looked around the room for him but I couldn¡¯t find him.

    My heartbeat was starting to race when the paper poking out beneath the bedsidemp caught my attention and I opened it to check its content.

    He¡¯d written about being out earlier than expected since he needed to be early for the meeting so he could conclude it with his clients.

    Smiling, I heaved out a sigh of relief as I dropped the paper back on the bed. My body ached and my head was spinning, it must¡¯ve been from all the fun we hadst night.

    Pulling off my clothes, I went to the bathroom to freshen up and I was still bathing when I heard the bathroom door open.

    I was unable to open my eyes because I had soap on my face but I soon washed it off and turned to see Mason on the doorway, he was smiling at me.

    ¡°I really just want to fuck the shit out of you.¡± He teased, his voice was so low that I almost couldn¡¯t hear him but it still sent chills down my spine.

    ¡°Get out.¡± I shouted at him amidstughter as I sshed water on him but he didn¡¯t leave. He started pulling off his clothes and I raised an eyebrow as if to ask him what he¡¯s doing.

    He got in the shower with me and pecked me, he helped me with my back since my hand couldn¡¯t really get there and in return, I helped with his back too.

    It was fun bathing with him, just like I remembered it. I remembered what he¡¯d told me in the letter he wrote and dropped by the bedsidemp and I sought to ask him about it.

    ¡°It was good, I didn¡¯t even have to try for them to agree with me and it¡¯s all finalized now,¡± he replied and I was really happy for him.

    ¡°It must¡¯ve been my charm, no one can ignore that.¡± He joked and I rolled my eyes in fake frustration as I told him to get out of his head.

    ¡°Why did you write a letter when you could¡¯ve woken me up or even sent a text?¡± I asked, ¡°I thought it was all a dream because I woke up to an empty bed and I thought you left.¡± I voiced out and he turned me to face him properly.

    ¡°It was because I wanted to be romantic, like they do in movies.¡± He replied and Iughed before telling him that I really found it romantic.

    Standing on my tiptoe, I kissed him and he returned my kiss with an urgency and hunger that I wasn¡¯t really expecting.

    My hand explored his body and soonnded on his dick. It was really hard but I wasn¡¯t really in the mood to have sex with him.

    Lifting my gaze and smirking at him, I made my hair into a ponytail before getting on my knees in front of him.

    I rubbed his cock and thanks to the water on it, it was a little slippery. I added my saliva on it for more lubrication and rubbed from the base to the tip before putting my tongue on it.

    I licked the tip and nibbled on the little hole on his dick with my tongue while I yed with his balls. Unexpectedly, I took his whole length into my mouth so that I could feel it in my throat and I gagged but I didn¡¯t care.

    He let out a loud moan and I was proud of myself. Mason held my hair and helped my head move back and forth on his dick as he threw his head back and moaned.

    The sound of his moan made me want to do more and go even faster so not caring about my hair wrapped around his finger.

    I held his cock with one hand and move my head faster on it, my drool dropping on it and I could feel the sting of tears at the back of my eyes due to the way his duck fucked my mouth.

    Lifting me up, he carried me from the bathroom and ced me on the bed without caring about our wet body.

    ¡°You¡¯re getting the bed all wet.¡± I pointed out.

    ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± he breathed, ¡°all I care about is making you feel special and satisfied.¡± He added before cing his lips on mine.

    His wet tongue trailed off from my mouth to my neck and he gave it a slight bite and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that he left a love bite.

    Trailing down to my nipple, he fiddled with one of my nipples with his tongue while he used his finger on the other and my body aches for him.

    He was taking it slow, taking his time and the anticipation was killing me, I finally felt his tongue on my clit and I groaned.

    His fingers were already inside my pussy while his tongue sucked on the juice that came out of it and soon his finger and tongue were both inside me.

    The feeling was amazing and it didn¡¯t take long for me to have a toe curling orgasm, we finished and he came back up to kiss me again.

    The day went by quickly and when night came my mum called, she¡¯d asked about my life and how things were going for me.

    I exined to her that Mason and I were out of the country on a business trip and I asked about Danny, she told me he¡¯s fine and we also talked about how they were enjoying their exploration.

    ¡°You know you shouldn¡¯t really focus only on the business trip, you should have fun too and let Mason take care of you for a change.¡± She advised me and Iughed.

    ¡°Okay mum, I feel tired and I¡¯d really like to go to bed,¡± I replied, ¡°Goodnight and I¡¯ll talk to youter.¡± I added before hanging up.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

 Chapter 100

    Ava¡¯s POV

    It was finally the weekend and I still had three more days to spend with Mason. I enjoyed the three days with him and in the space of those days I was able to see another side of him.

    I got to see more beautiful sides to him, I got to really get to know and connect with him on different levels. Those were the reasons that made me fall in love with him when we were younger.

    Being with him was so beautiful and whenever he was around nothing else mattered to me, nothing else usually matters as long as I have Mason.

    He was different from all of the other guys I¡¯d met, he was different from Xander that bailed on me when he kissed me, he was also different from my husband who treated women like they were nothing.

    Mason knew how to treat a woman with so much love, he makes me feel heard, seen, he makes me feel amazing and that was all I ever wanted.

    Although he hadn¡¯t told me he loves me yet and it bothers me because sometimes I just really want to hear those words from him. I wanted him to confess and tell me just how much he loves and can¡¯t live without me.

    I¡¯d decided to let it go and now let it bother me since he was doing a good job showing it to me. For now, all I¡¯ll do is just enjoy the happiness and have fun and worry about the L wordter.

    We enjoyed each other¡¯spany and I was going through my email when I saw Nicole had dropped a message from me.

    ¡®Get your ass to San Francisco as soon as you can, it¡¯s really urgent.¡¯

    I read her mail out loud and I wondered what could be so urgent that she couldn¡¯t have called me but had decided to send a mail to me.

    It¡¯s the weekend and Nicole was supposed to be with her husband and baby in Los Angeles but I couldn¡¯t wrap my head around why she¡¯d request a meet up in San Francisco.

    Did she have a fight with Ryan and elope with the baby?This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    It began to bother me, I really needed to know that my best friend was okay with her husband and child.

    ¡°Do you think she had a fight with him?¡± I asked in confusion as I exined the mail I got from Nicole to Mason and he was just as confused as I was.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say they were cool and everything is going fine?¡± He asked and I nodded affirmatively as I packed my bags and got ready to leave.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡± He offered as he started packing his bags too so he could leave with me but I refused and stopped him.

    ¡°I¡¯m not a child, I can take care of myself,¡± I stated as I kissed him, ¡°you should stay back and enjoy the rest of your vacation because it¡¯s no longer a business trip.¡± I joked and kissed him again.

    Mason wasted no time in booking a flight for me and I hurriedly boarded, I couldn¡¯t wait to get to San Francisco and it didn¡¯t take long for us tond.

    I didn¡¯t even bother dropping off my bags at Mason¡¯s ce and I¡¯d instead headed straight to the address Nicole sent to me.

    I got there and I was met with a shock that wasn¡¯t really a shock, here I was worrying about my best friend when she¡¯s leaving her life to the fullest and eating like a pig.

    ¡°What the hell? You scared me,¡± I yelled and hit her head as soon as I got there, sheughed before standing to face me.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to say hi first?¡± She said amidstughter and we both hugged each other long enough.

    I was just d she was fine and nothing had happened to her.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± I asked, setting my back down and sitting with her at the table, ¡°what¡¯s the emergency?¡± I added and she shrugged.

    ¡°I just wanted to see my best friend before going back to LA to see my husband and child.¡± She answered and I yelled at her as I tossed the cheese at her.

    ¡°I just left Mason in the city because of this?!¡± I yelled again, ¡°I had three more fucking days to enjoy myself and you had to ruin it for this!¡± I added in a fake cry.

    ¡°Now I won¡¯t be able to see him for three days because of you, why¡¯d you do this to me Nicole?¡± I asked.

    I lifted my gaze to see her eyebrows raised and I knew what was next, she definitely would want the entire details of what¡¯s going on.

    ¡°What do you mean Mason and the city?¡± She asked, looking confused and I had no choice than to tell her everything that went down between Mason and I.

    ¡°Well, I got a job and wanted to stop living with my mum so I¡¯d thought I was going to get an apartment but Mason had a penthouse and¡­¡±

    ¡°A penthouse? He¡¯s that rich?¡± Nicole cut me off mid sentence and I nodded positively while she shrieked in excitement for me.

    Finally getting her to keep quiet, I exined everything to her from the moment I started living with him and how we became close to his nice and gentle gesture to how I followed him out of the country on a business trip which eventually became a vacation that she ruined.

    ¡°He¡¯s huge and fucking good in bed.¡± I finished as I exined the sex part to her and Nicole screamed her lungs out to the extent that everyone stared at us like we were crazy.

    ¡°Why on earth were you keeping something as huge as this away from me?¡± She asked, pouting and Iughed as we both stood to go have a drink together.

 Chapter 101

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We both left the restaurant and went for a drink at a nearby bar and Nicole wouldn¡¯t stop asking me different kinds of questions about Mason.

    ¡°So what are you guys now? Is he like your boyfriend or something?¡± She asked as she took her shot and I sighed.

    I¡¯ve also been meaning to ask him about it but I¡¯ve been unable to because I didn¡¯t want to ruin what we have going on.

    ¡°Not really, I don¡¯t know. We haven¡¯t really talked about it, you know.¡± I answered with a sigh and Nicole almost choked on her drink.

    ¡°What do you mean you haven¡¯t talked about it?¡± She asked as she hit me, ¡°you better ask him about it so you know where you stand before going knee deep into this and getting hurt again.¡± She added.

    I couldn¡¯t have agreed more with her, she¡¯s right. I really need to know what Mason and I were instead of assuming and getting my heart broken again.

    ¡°I¡¯ll talk to him about it soon.¡± I replied as I assured Nicole and she heaved out a sigh of relief as she implored me to talk about it as soon as possible.

    I knew she was only just looking out for me and didn¡¯t want me to go through what I went through when Mason first left and what I went through with my ex husband.

    Assuring her that I would do it immediately Mason came back, we changed the conversation and I asked her about work which she told me is going well.

    We talked about how our parents had decided to relocate because they wanted to tour the world together and enjoy all of the good things they might¡¯ve missed in their youthful days.

    ¡°Gosh, I really want to be like them.¡± Nicole moaned as she ced her hand on chin and gave her dreamy look which made meugh.

    ¡°You¡¯re definitely drunk.¡± I pointed out like I wasn¡¯t drunk myself, the bar seemed like everything was upside down and soon we were about to ck out when we finally decided to stop drinking and I ordered a Uber back home.

    ***

    It¡¯s been three days and I couldn¡¯t wait for Mason to get back from the trip. I got the house ready and waited to hear the honking of the car that¡¯ll drop him off.

    It wasn¡¯t long before Mason got back and his temperature was high, his teeth gritted against each other like he¡¯s cold and he was also shivering.

    I haven¡¯t been any worried in my life, I just wanted him to be fine. Without thinking, I helped him into the car and drove him to the hospital.

    I was grateful for the fact that he¡¯d taught me how to drive when we were kids, I got him the drugs the doctor prescribed and drove him back home.

    He seemed to be sweating a awful lot and I pulled off his clothes and covered him with the nket on the bed.

    I made him a bowl of soup and made sure he took it before taking his medication. I was unable to sleep and so I sat beside him and watched him fall asleep.

    ¡°I love you.¡± I whispered when I was sure that he was already deep asleep and I picked his forehead before going out of his room.

    I¡¯d decided to do the dishes and watch a movie. I just wanted to stay up for him in case he needed anything and I couldn¡¯t wait for him to get better.

    Mason started getting well with each day that passed by and I was d that he¡¯s back on his feet and able to do some things that he usually does.

    ¡°You¡¯re just recovering, you shouldn¡¯t be stressing yourself like this.¡± I scolded him as I took the file from him and ced it on the table.

    I ced down his food and asked him to eat so he could use his drugs and after much back and forth and arguments, he finally ate and took his meds.

    Sitting on hisp, I kissed him and told him about how d I am that he¡¯s fine now.

    ONE MONTH LATER.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    I knew Mason has been sneaking around and it was because it¡¯s my birthday soon, he¡¯s probably trying to prepare a surprise for me.

    I couldn¡¯t wait to find out what he had nned for me. The day came and I was pleasantly surprised, he¡¯d also arranged dinner with me and our parents.

    I¡¯ve never had a birthday this happy since my father died and I had Mason to thank for that, he¡¯d made a promise to always be there and make me feel special and I couldn¡¯t have felt any more special than this.

    Everything went smoothly and a part of me didn¡¯t want the party to end but it had to and we all went back home.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± I muttered before standing on my tiptoe and kissing him as hard as I could, ¡°this really is the best birthday I ever had.¡± I added.

    ¡°I¡¯m d I could make myself useful and make it special for you.¡± He replied, kissing me and soon we were naked on the bed.

    Even the sex was more blissful than all of the sex we¡¯ve been having, today really is the happiest day of my life and I would give anything to have this day forever.

    Laying on his chest, I wanted to ask the question I¡¯ve been meaning to ask for months but I had no idea how to even bring myself to ask.

    Bracing and assuring myself that nothing would go wrong and it¡¯ll be fine.

    ¡°What are we?¡± I blurted out before I had the chance to think about it but I was d that I finally let it out of my chest.

    The room suddenly became silent and the only sound that could be heard was the one that came from his throbbing heart.

    I felt stupid, I thought we had something special and without saying a word, I left the room and headed to mine. I felt the urge to cry as I held my pillow tightly but I couldn¡¯t.

    I heard a slight knock on my door and I knew he was the one but Ipletely ignored him.

 Chapter 102

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Ava wouldn¡¯t talk to me, I stood at her door knocking for hours and I knew she heard me but chose to ignore.

    Turning the door knob, I¡¯d wanted to let myself in but the door was locked. Standing dejected, I stood by the door and hoped she would stille outside but she never did.

    Walking back to my room, I couldn¡¯t help but think about how I¡¯d messed it all up. How could I have fucked it all when I was just starting to have all I¡¯ve ever wished for.

    Closing my eyes, I tried to sleep but most of what I did was tossing and turning on my bed thinking about Ava.

    The night went by and I tried to talk to her but she was still ignoring me. She acted like I never existed and I¡¯ve never been this hurt aside when I traveled after graduation.

    I tried everything I could, I¡¯d wanted to take her to work but she preferred ordering a ride, I proposed taking her out to dinner but nothing worked.

    It went on like that for two days and I felt like I was dead inside, I felt empty and with each passing day I kept missing her immensely.

    I watched her walk to her room and without thinking, I followed behind her and got into bed with her. I felt like a lovelorn teenager but I didn¡¯t care.

    ¡°Please, just please.¡± I pleaded, holding her hands and she finally agreed to hear me out instead of pushing me away.

    ¡°This is the same reason you threw away what we once had,¡± she started, her voice breaking and I could hear the hurt in her voice so much that it felt like a dagger piercing through my heart.

    ¡°Your silence when I asked a simple question was enough response that I needed.¡± She added and I closed my eyes in frustration.

    She was hurt and angry and I knew it, I could see it because her eyes weren¡¯t as dted as they usually are whenever she sees me. They were red and burning with rage.

    ¡°It¡¯s over, I¡¯m moving out in a week and I don¡¯t want anything to do with you so please, leave my room and leave me the hell alone.¡± Her voice was raised.

    I¡¯d wanted to say something but she didn¡¯t give me a chance to, I was chased out of her room like an animal and I couldn¡¯t me her.

    What on earth was I thinking about my response for?

    Turning to beg for another chance with her, she mmed the door in my face and I was left hanging.

    It seemed as though the universe was against me because the week flew by and I just couldn¡¯t watch her leave.

    She¡¯ll be moving out today and there¡¯s no way I was going to allow that. Getting her a bouquet of flowers and a single rose, I ran as fast as my legs could carry me to her room.

    She looked pale and she was packing her clothes into her bag. Turning her over so she could look at me, I got on one knee and handed her the bouquet.

    ¡°Please,¡± I muttered, my voice threatening to break if I said another word, ¡°don¡¯t leave me please. I can¡¯t, I just can¡¯t deal with you going, Ava.¡± I added.

    ¡°There¡¯s a lot you don¡¯t know so please just give me thisst chance and some time, that¡¯s all I ask.¡± I finished and looked away.

    I couldn¡¯t hear looking at her because I knew how much pain I¡¯ve caused her, I knew all the awful things she went through because of me and I just wanted to make it right.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Do you love me?¡± She finally spoke and the question was unexpected but I wouldn¡¯t waste as much time as I did answering her other question.

    ¡°Yes, I do. I love you so much and I don¡¯t know how I¡¯ll be able to live without you.¡± I confessed with a bitter smile.

    ¡°I can¡¯t make the mistake of losing you once again, it was hell.¡± I added and she pulled me up.

    We talked things out and I was finally able to get her to stay, we confessed our love to each other and I was the happiest.

    She wasn¡¯t going to move out anymore and she¡¯d instead moved her things into my room which I loved because that was a new step into our rtionship.

    We finally decided to name our rtionship and we¡¯re dating now, everyone around was happy for us. We¡¯d thought of informing our parents and a part of her was scared of the rejection.

    Pulling out my phone, I called my dad and he picked up almost immediately, I cleared my throat and braced myself to be able to break the news to him.

    ¡°I have something to tell you,¡± I finally let out and he sighed before asking about Ava, ¡°she¡¯s fine.¡±

    ¡°Is she there with you?¡± He asked and I was confused, I told him that she is and even set the phone on speaker so Ava could hear him too.

    ¡°Congrattions to you both.¡± He said and my mouth dropped open, I had no idea what he was congratting us for and when I asked him he told me he knew about us already.

    ¡°So you¡¯re not mad?¡± I asked and heughed.

    ¡°Why would I be? You never saw each other as siblings and whatever makes you happy, makes me happy too.¡± He answered and I let out a breath that I had no idea I was holding.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I muttered, Ava spoke to him and her mum and she seemed even more happy for her. She told Ava that she¡¯d told her things would work out and now things are finally working out.

    I was happy for the people around me and after hanging up, I picked her up and dumped her on the bed before kissing her.

    ¡°I love you.¡±

 Chapter 103

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Things started going well, our rtionship skyrocketed and it seemed as though the fight we had was one we needed to help us be sure of our rtionship.

    I¡¯ve never been this happy and with each passing day I grew closer to Mason and got to experience new things with him. We¡¯d both decided to finish what we started when we were kids.

    Mason suggested going back to the beach where he¡¯d wanted to confess to me but was ruined. Everything was pretty much the same and I knew that it was to bring back the effect.

    We both sat at the table and before we started eating, Mason pulled out a bracelet and with a smile requested that I give him my hand.

    He wore it for me and also wore the second one for himself, it was exactly the same as mine.

    ¡°You really can¡¯t be my stepsister but the only woman meant for me.¡± He affirmed and my heart fluttered.

    My cheeks felt hot and Mason stood before leaning into me to peck my cheek and also kiss my lip. All this felt like a dream to me except it isn¡¯t a dream.

    We ate dinnerughing hard as ever, Mason did all he could to make sure I was having the best night. Dinner was romantic and when we were done he pulled out his guitar.

    I¡¯ve never seen the guitar or seen him y and sing in years and I knew the guitar was special to him but I had no idea that he still had it here.

    Mason sang for me and every song touched me, his voice gave me goosebumps and when he finished, I cheered for him.

    He handed the guitar to one of the men who yed while we danced. The evening was one I didn¡¯t want to end because it was filled with sweetness and happened. Iughed till my cheeks began to hurt.

    Confused, I allowed Mason to pull me to where he wanted to, he¡¯d told me he had a surprise for me and I couldn¡¯t wait to see what the surprise was.

    We stood for a while watching the skies when fireworks came on and I saw my name disyed on the sky. It was so beautiful.

    I was so touched that I couldn¡¯t stop myself from crying, I was married for a year and more and I never got to experience things like this.

    I married a man that couldn¡¯t care less about my feelings. I spent a year and more of my life in an agonizing marriage and I did nothing to get out of it until I finally got the courage.

    ¡°Hey,¡± Mason called, pulling my face to him and cleaning up my tears, ¡°stop crying.¡± He added and I sniffed.

    I wanted to stop crying too but I couldn¡¯t do it, my tears had a kind of their own and they kept pouring, I had no control.

    ¡°You deserve the best and nothing but that and I promise to always make sure to give that to you so please stop the tears.¡± He smiled softly as he stared into my eyes.

    I finally managed to stop crying and Mason cleaned my eyes, pulled me in for a hug before kissing me softly and passionately.

    Pulling me away from there, Mason led me to the beach house he rented and I gasped when we got in. It had beautiful red led light with scented candles.

    He really outdid himself and made sure tonight was a romantic one. We made our way to the bedroom and each step of the way I couldn¡¯t stop picking up flowers until we got to the bed.

    My palm covered my mouth when I saw that he¡¯d written that he loves me on the bed with even more flowers. Turning to look at him, an urgent sense of anticipation drove through me.

    Everything turned me on and I could already feel the drip between my legs, pulling him into me. I kissed him and we both fell on the bed without caring about the beautiful flowers.

    The sex wasn¡¯t like the ones we¡¯ve been having. Something about this night made the sex even more passionate and filled with sweet love.

    ONE MONTH LATER

    I was trying to get some things done around the house since Mason isn¡¯t around when I heard the doorbell ring. Picking up the napkin, I cleaned my hands before proceeding to the door.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    I opened the door and my mouth dropped open when I noticed the little boy, he looks so much like Mason, they both have the exact same features. He was holding tightly to the woman who was with him.

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­¡± I stammered,ughing nervously, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, can I help you?¡± I finally managed to ask and she scoffed.

    ¡°Well yes, I¡¯m here to see the father of my child,¡± she answered and I was confused, I¡¯d wanted to speak when shepleted her sentence and it felt like a bell rang in my head, ¡°Mason.¡± She finished and my jaw dropped.

    Unable to speak, I couldn¡¯t stop staring at the little boy, I could feel the hot burn of tears at the back of my eyes as I tried to act normal.

    Once again I became the fool, why do I get hurt by the people I choose to love the moment I start loving and trusting them?

    ¡°He¡¯s not home now,¡± I stuttered, ¡°but I can take a message for him. What¡¯s your name?¡± I asked and she told me.

    ¡°Thank you, you can check on him again some other time but I will definitely tell him you came here.¡± I assured her with a smile and watched as she left with her son.

    My chest began to hurt but I didn¡¯t care, I was furious. Mad and I couldn¡¯t get the image of the little boy out of my head.

    Sitting on the couch, I waited angrily for Mason to be back.

 Chapter 104

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Mason finally came home and I was still fuming, why did he lie to me? Why did he keep it away from me? He shouldn¡¯t have done that. He should¡¯ve told me all about her but here he is smiling at me like he is innocent.

    He brought food for me and he¡¯d also set the table, angry. I joined him at the table but I couldn¡¯t keep my anger at bay.

    I felt like a ticking time bomb that could explode anytime soon, twisting and twirling my fork on the pasta, I couldn¡¯t bring myself to eat it.

    ¡°It was hectic at the office today and one of our clients had the nerve to¡­¡± his voice trailed off and I lifted my gaze to look at him.

    He¡¯s been trying to make up conversations but I¡¯ve been brushing it off like it was nothing and now he¡¯s finally noticed that something was wrong.

    ¡°Spill it.¡± He ordered and in one swing, I dropped the fork with me as I exined to him all that happened when he wasn¡¯t around today.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Why? Why did you fucking lie? I thought we were way past that and now this?!¡± I yelled, staring at him but he looked confused like he had no idea what I¡¯m talking about.

    ¡°Ava, calm down.¡± He started and that was the wrong choice of word because now I don¡¯t want to calm down. I mmed my hand on the table and demanded an exnation from him.

    ¡°I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about and I don¡¯t have a son just hear me out!¡± He shot back at me and I scoffed.

    Is he really trying to joke around with me right now?

    ¡°I saw him, I saw the child and he looks everything like you, he even has your chin and you dare lie to me?!¡± I was angry and blinded with rage.

    ¡°I¡¯m not lying to you, I genuinely don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡± He exined, his voice still low and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder how he¡¯s so calm.

    ¡°What does the name Aisha mean to you?¡± I asked, hoping that would help him remember the shenanigans he had with the girl but he became even more confused.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know that name and I don¡¯t have a child for the umpteenth time Ava.¡± He denied, trying to act like the boy just happened to look like him.

    ¡°This is so fucking low of you,¡± I started, my voice low that I almost couldn¡¯t hear myself speak, ¡°you had something to do with this woman and you know it but you¡¯re lying to me!¡± I added. My fist clenched in anger.

    ¡°I don¡¯t¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t even,¡± I cut in, ¡°you told me you weren¡¯t involved in anything serious with any other woman which is exactly why I¡¯m confused because WHO THE HELL IS AISHA!¡± I couldn¡¯t hold the anger back again and it¡¯s trying to break free.

    He¡¯d wanted to speak when I raised my hand up to him in anger, shunning him and not wanting him to lie to me again.

    ¡°We¡¯re not going to talk about this anymore until she¡¯s back tomorrow because she will.¡± I swallowed as I turned my back to him.

    Quickly, I walked back to my room in anger and utter sadness andid on my bed as I clutched my pillow tightly and hoped that it was all a dream and not real.

    I found myself wishing that this was just a bad dream, that Mason doesn¡¯t have a son and by tomorrow I would get to know about how ridiculous I was with him.

    Closing my eyes, I tried to sleep but all I could think of was the woman asking for the father of her child and the little boy that looks so much like Mason.

    The rm by my bedside woke me up and I stood to get ready for the day. I walked down the stairs and still ignored Mason until I heard the doorbell ringing again.

    Hurriedly, I made my way to the door and all my hopes about it just being a bad dream was dashed when I saw Aisha and the little boy at the door.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, pleasee in.¡± I ushered the both of them in because this time Mason was around and I wanted to hear what else he¡¯d say to deny this.

    ¡°Hey, Mason!¡± She called as she ran towards him and she¡¯d almost thrown herself at him, I couldn¡¯t watch it. Closing my eyes in pain, I looked away from both of them.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Do I know you?¡± He asked and my stomach stirred in anger again. How could he act like he still doesn¡¯t know her when clearly they both had something to do with each other?

    ¡°It¡¯s me, Aisha,¡± she tried to exin, ¡°and this is your son.¡± She added and Mason¡¯s jaw dropped when he saw the boy. He couldn¡¯t deny the fact that the boy looked so much like him.

    ¡°I don¡¯t remember¡­¡± he insisted but I took the words out of his mouth as I tried to question Aisha on how they both got to know each other.

    She exined it all to us and that was when we got to know that Mason slept with her on the 5th of August four years ago.

    It was oddly specific and that was the day we both had a fight about him not telling me that he was traveling abroad.

    ¡°Oh c¡¯mon!¡± He yelled, he¡¯s also starting to get angry but how dare him? ¡°I don¡¯t remember any of this and¡­¡±

    ¡°You booked a hotel for us that night and insisted that you needed to get something out of your chest.¡± Aisha cut him off and that was when I knew that I was already crying.

    ¡°Ava, I¡¯m telling you. Don¡¯t listen to her please I have no idea¡­¡± he was still talking when my palm met his face in a hard p.

    ¡°How dare you?¡± I asked before running out of the house.

 Chapter 105

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Angry and perspiring, my vision had be blurry as I ran out of the house. I got to the car and it seemed like I was going crazy.

    It didn¡¯t seem like it, I knew damn well that I¡¯m going crazy. What happened? I¡¯d taught myself to live without men. How could I still get my heart broken by the same man that did it the first time.

    Getting into the car and doing nothing to stop myself from crying, I started it and stepped on the elerator as I drove like a maniac. I was lucky to not have gotten hit by the truck in front of me.

    Quickly, I swerved right and away from the truck and my life shed right in front of me as I parked in the middle of the road crying.

    My heart hurt and on top of that I was angry, without thinking, I hit the steering wheel multiple times as I yelled and hoped that was going to work for me but I didn¡¯t stop feeling hurt.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    I felt used, I felt like a fool for letting myself trust the same man all over again. I felt stupid and pping myself as hard as I could, I couldn¡¯t stop crying.

    Finally getting a little bit of a grip on myself, I drove to the bar and ordered more than ten shots of tequ. The barman stared at me suspiciously for a while.

    ¡°What? Am I not allowed to drink, I¡¯m a fucking adult!¡± I snarled at him before he got out what I¡¯d ordered and I started drinking.

    Frantically searching my bag for my phone, I finally pulled it out and searched for Nicole¡¯s number. My head throbbed and the club seemed to be spinning.

    My vision was bing even blurrier than it was before and she picked up almost immediately it rang. Crying, I exined everything to her and I was d when she didn¡¯t interrupt my venting process.

    ¡°I¡¯m a fool, Nicole, a big one.¡± I slurred, I was getting drunk but I was still a little but conscious of what I was doing and what was going on around me.

    ¡°No, you¡¯re not a fool, Ava. You fell in love and something might have happened but you¡¯re not a fool for loving him.¡± She assured me and Iughed bitterly as I shrugged.

    ¡°Whatever, Nicole. I¡¯m done,¡± I affirmed, ¡°I¡¯m done with him, I¡¯m done with men and I¡¯m just looking for a gorgeous man to get to bed with right now.¡± Iughed and Nicole yelled at me toe back to my senses.

    ¡°You¡¯re drunk, Ava. Now, I wouldn¡¯t want you doing what you¡¯ll eventually regret so there¡¯s no way I¡¯m allowing you¡­.¡± She was still talking when I hung the call up on her.

    Taking a long nce at the bartender, he didn¡¯t look really bad to me. He was attractive and his lips looked soft and they called out to me.

    ¡°Hey, You.¡± I slurred, calling his attention as I flirtatiously tucked my hair behind my ear.

    ¡°Yes ma¡¯am, can I help you?¡± He asked, making me gag at his show of concern because that was all men do, they let you trust them and pretend that they care only to have your trust broken and your heart smashed.

    ¡°You tell me, can you help me?¡± I asked back, biting my lower lip. His face seemed to be distorted and whatever he said next was something I couldn¡¯t make any sense out of.

    My stomach churned and I felt like throwing up, trying to keep myself from vomiting. I ced my head on the table and soon everything went nk.

    MASON¡¯S POV

    ¡°I¡¯ll be there, yes, thank you.¡± I hung up as I picked my car key and drove out of my house and straight to the bar Ava was at.

    The bar attendant had just called to tell me that Ava passed out in his bar and thanks to Nicole he wouldn¡¯t have known that he was supposed to call me.

    I got to the bar and my chest clenched as I watched Ava passed out on the chair. The attendant was nice enough toy her down.

    Thanking him, I picked her up and drove back home as Iid her down in the back seat and I couldn¡¯t stop staring at her from the rear view mirror. I just wished she would give me a chance to exin that I have no idea who that woman is.

    We got home and she was already awake, she looked a little bit sober and she was conscious of where she was. I knew she was still angry because she wouldn¡¯t let me touch or even help her.

    ¡°Why would you go out to drink? You were drunk and fucking passed out that I had toe get you!¡±  I yelled and that made her stop in her tracks as she turned to look at me.

    ¡°Oh now you¡¯re trying to me me for leaving the house?¡± She scoffed, ¡°how dare you? You liar, fucking cheat!¡± She yelled as she hit me and I just couldn¡¯t stop her.

    ¡°You know what, you can go to hell for all I fucking care!¡± She added and I¡¯d tried to exin to her that I hadn¡¯t slept with the woman and I have no idea what was going on but she wouldn¡¯t let me.

    Ignoring me, she staggered into her room and I tried to follow behind her but she warned sternly that I should leave her and get out of her way.

    Not knowing what to do, I watched as she walked to her room and mmed the door behind her. She hated me and she didn¡¯t need to say it because I could see it in her eyes.

    What¡¯s going on? Who is this woman?

    Pacing around the sitting room for a while, my feet padded to Ava¡¯s door and I¡¯d tried to knock but I just couldn¡¯t bring myself to do it.

 Chapter 106

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Conflicted about how I feel and not knowing what else to do, I made my way back to the sitting room and I couldn¡¯t stop staring at the woman who¡¯d caused all this, the woman that imed to have my child.

    Now, she¡¯s refused to leave this house until I agree to the fact that I had sex with her, I still couldn¡¯t believe it and I hated myself for being unable to remember it.

    I stared at the child who was also asleep in his mother¡¯sp and I ran my fingers through my hair. I¡¯ve been looking at him for a while but I just couldn¡¯t bring myself to touch him.

    Why is all this happening? What¡¯s going on? Why did everything decide to go wrong just when Ava and I are getting it right?

    ¡°Follow me,¡± I ordered and she picked her son up as I walked her to the guest room, ¡°you can spend the night here, it¡¯s better and then we¡¯ll also talk well tomorrow.¡± I added and she was excited.

    ¡°Thank you! I¡¯ve always known that you¡¯re¡­¡± she was saying as she moved closer to me but I moved away from her and her face fell.

    ¡°Keep your distance from me, okay?¡± I ordered and made sure that we were clear before going into my room.

    I was unable to sleep, it was hard when all I could do was think about this mysterious woman and her son and also Ava.

    After staring at the wall for a while, I stood from the bed and paced around trying to think of what to do but still couldn¡¯te up with anything.

    Slowly, my feet padded to Ava¡¯s room, I could hear her sniffing and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that she¡¯s been crying.

    ¡°Ava,¡± I called, knocking and I heaved out a sigh of relief when I heard her footsteps close to the door. All my hopes were dashed when I heard the clicking sound that came from her locking the door.

    ¡°Just please, listen to me and let me exin.¡± I tried to get her toe back but nothing worked. After standing at the door for over an hour, I went back to my room.

    I needed to talk to someone or people, picking up my phone, I sent my friends a text that they needed to see me at the location I picked before I went crazy.

    ***

    Getting ready to meet my friends, I ignored the woman who was already in the sitting room before I got there and looked around in search of Ava but she was nowhere to be found.

    I got to the restaurant and exined everything to my friends about the new development and the woman that showed up to my house iming her son is mine and they were just as shocked as I am.

    ¡°Well, you¡¯ve always been quite the yer, you slept with not one or twodies in school so I wouldn¡¯t be surprised that someone showed up to your house with a child.¡± Larry joked but I couldn¡¯t find a reaction to the joke.

    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re really serious about this?¡± He asked and I sighed before resting my back on the chair.

    ¡°Do you really think I called you both here just to make a joke!¡± I retorted before closing my eyes in frustration, ¡°and now even Ava won¡¯t talk to me.¡± I added in a mutter. I was confused.

    ¡°And you¡¯re sure that you didn¡¯t have sex with anyone while you were away from Ava?¡± Malik asked, looking serious now and both of them seemed desperate to solve my problem.

    ¡°No, I swear. I stayed away from basically everyone, almost stayed away from you guys too.¡± I exined and they nodded in agreement.

    ¡°Seen the child yet?¡± Larry asked and I nodded.

    ¡°It¡¯s confusing because he looks every fucking thing like me.¡± I answered and they both sighed.

    ¡°Are you sure this isn¡¯t nned? Like she has some sort of ulterior motives for her to just appear suddenly and im you¡¯re the father of her child?¡± Malik asked and I groaned.

    He might be right, this might be a n or a setup but I have no idea who would want to do something like this, who would want to ruin my rtionship with Ava like this.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°You know what?¡± Malik started, ¡°you try to make Ava believe you and we¡¯ll run a background check on the woman, don¡¯t worry too much.¡± He finished, assuring me that they would find a solution.

    Thanking them, I downed my ss of wine before telling them that I needed to be at the office. Driving to the office, I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about how I never thought about running a background check.

    I could also get a DNA test without any of their knowledge. Like Malik had said, I need to find ways for Ava to believe me.

    Getting to the office, I adjusted my suit and made my way down to the meeting room since my schedule had been sent to me.

    The directors were pitching their ideas but I couldn¡¯t grab a thing from what they were saying. My mind kept drifting off and after three trials of getting me to concentrate, they finally gave up.

    ¡°We¡¯ll schedule the meeting for another time.¡± One of them said and I apologized to them for wasting their time before going out of the boardroom.

    ¡°Cancel all the meetings I might have for today, I¡¯ll be unavable.¡± I ordered my secretary and she looked a little bit confused.

    ¡°But you scheduled one for our biggest investors today, it¡¯s in three hours time.¡± She reminded me and I shot her a re.

    ¡°I¡¯ll cancel it all right away Sir.¡± She fidgeted and I walked out of thepany as I loosened my tie because it seemed too choking.

    I really need to get to the bottom of all this and find out what she wants.

 Chapter 107

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Driving back homete at night, I got inside to see Aisha and her son having dinner and I looked around for Ava but just like this morning before I left, she wasn¡¯t in sight.

    ¡°Daddy.¡± The boy called, running to me to hug me but I moved away slightly so he wouldn¡¯t be able to touch me.

    I hated the fact that I had to treat the little boy like that but I was even more shocked at the way they¡¯d made themselvesfortable in a house that¡¯s not even theirs.

    Did she tell her son to call me ¡®dad¡¯?

    Looking up, I finally saw Ava and I was a little bit relieved but I also couldn¡¯t miss the shocked look on her face.

    Her eyes were wide in shock and her mouth opened, she¡¯d frozen in her tracks when she heard the little boy call me his father.

    I caught the sight of the single tear that dropped from her eyes as she turned and hurriedly made her way back to her room. Getting away from the sitting room, I followed her to her bedroom.

    The sight I got to see was one I thought we were past already, she was packing her bags and just stuffing things into her bag.

    Thest time I saw this was when I¡¯d messed up by not answering her question and now it¡¯s happening again because of this woman and little boy in my house.

    I have no idea who they are but all my efforts to exin it to her proved futile since she wouldn¡¯t even listen to me or hear a single thing that came out of my mouth.

    ¡°I¡­ I just can¡¯t do this, I can¡¯t.¡± She stuttered, sniffing and cleaning her tears as she packed her bags. My chest clenched and I have no idea what I would do with my life if she left.

    ¡°Ava.¡± I called softly, I dared not touch her because I just couldn¡¯t bring myself to.

    ¡°I can¡¯t do this, I need some time and breathing space. I need to be able to process all of this,¡± she continued, her breathing had be fast and she¡¯s perspiring now.

    ¡°Give me the space I need.¡± She added as she packed thest set of clothes and picked up her bag to leave the house.

    She¡¯s leaving.

    Like a coward, I just stood there unable to stop her from leaving. I watched as she left and the moment she stepped out of the house I felt a really big hole in my heart.

    I can¡¯t live my life without her.

    I looked at the boy and Aisha who didn¡¯t seem to care about the fact that Ava had left me. I felt no connection whatsoever to my supposed son.

    Devastated, I turned away from them to send a text to my friends. I told them that Ava left already and they did all they could to try and console me but I only want her back in my life.

    Nothing would make any sense to me if she doesn¡¯te back here.

    Getting into my room, I started pulling off my clothes. It was taking everything in me to not cry like a little baby over Ava¡¯s absence.

    Laying on my bed, I kept my eyes open as it got darker and the night grew deeper. I was still staring and thinking about Ava when I heard a loud thunderstorm.

    Jumping out of my bed, I looked out of the window to see that it was raining really hard and all I could think about was how Ava might be having a panic attack now.

    She¡¯s scared of the rain and it would kill her if she¡¯s out there under it but because of all of this rubbish going on in my house, I can¡¯t bring her back home.

    Leaving my bedroom, I went to the sitting room pacing around in fear of how Ava might be doing under the rain and in anger of this mysterious woman in my house.

    Trying to think of the next step, I felt a hand on my shoulder and I turned at once to see Aisha smiling at me, my stomach churned and I felt a surge of anger run through my veins.

    ¡°I made dinner for you.¡± She announced and my mouth dropped open. Who the hell does she think she is?

    ¡°What?¡± I scoffed, running my fingers through my hair as I continued pacing but stopped abruptly, ¡°who the fuck do you think you are to tell me you prepared dinner for me?¡± I asked and she only smiled.

    Her smile caused me to be even angrier because why on earth is she in my house like she has a right to be there.

    ¡°What do you mean, Mason? It¡¯s because I care¡­..¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you fucking dareplete that statement,¡± I yelled, not caring if there was a child in the house, ¡°I want you out of my house by tomorrow morning because everything happening right now is your damn fault.¡± I med her.

    ¡°Oh really? You don¡¯t seem to think that when you were making a baby with me!¡± She retorted and I snickered.

    ¡°How am I even so sure I¡¯m the father of the child and you¡¯re not just done cheap prostitute that opens her legs for money and let crackheads fuck but try to find a decent guy to push the child on?!¡± I shot back at her.

    What I¡¯d just said to get was mean but I didn¡¯t care because it was all her fault.

    ¡°You slept with me, you got me pregnant and now you¡¯re being mean to me?!¡± She said, her voice breaking before she fell into a full swing wail.

    I couldn¡¯t stand there and watch her cry. Ignoring her, I walked away back to my bedroom and tried to call Ava.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Dialed her number multiple times and it was ringing but she didn¡¯t pick up.

 Chapter 108

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Without knowing what else to do, I took my packed bags and left the house to go to a friend¡¯s ce. We became close at work and she always tries to be Nicole for me anytime I wanted her to.

    ¡°What happened? Are you okay?¡± Marvy asked and my legs became weak as I almost copsed but she caught me and I cried in her arms.

    Finally getting a grip on myself, I exined everything to her as she listened attentively and for a moment I could see a glint of pity in her eyes.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± she consoled and I asked her how, I¡¯d just gotten my heart broken by the man I loved the most in my life and on top of that I heard a child refer to him as his father.

    ¡°You really shouldn¡¯t just shut him out of your lifepletely,¡± she started, ¡°because it seemed like he¡¯s also in the dark and has no idea what is going on and just like you, he¡¯s confused.¡± She finished as I only closed my eyes to think about it.

    I really wanted to believe he has nothing to do with Aisha, I really want to trust him but I just can¡¯t bring myself to do that.

    The facts were clear and it¡¯s ring to me, there was no way a child would look like him that much if he isn¡¯t the father, also Aisha isn¡¯t a child, she would definitely know who impregnated her.

    Burying my face in my palm, I cleaned my tears as I stared away into space and I didn¡¯t know when Marvy showed back up to the sitting room.

    ¡°Here.¡± She said, tapping me and handing me a cup of tea. I took a sip and a drop of tear escaped my eyes. This isn¡¯t even remotely close to how I enjoyed my tea. Only Mason knows how I do.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go back to get the rest of my things from his apartment after work tomorrow.¡± I told her as I set the cup of tea down and she nodded.

    I heard a loud thunder strike and my blood drained out of my veins at once. I could feel my life leave my body as the rain dropped even harder.

    My chest clenched and my heart started racing, it was thumping so hard that it felt like it would fly right out of my chest any minute.

    I¡¯m just a few minutes away from having a panic attack and Mason is nowhere in sight. Holding my chest and trying to blow air on myself with my mouth and hand.

    My phone started ringing and I looked to see that it was Mason calling. I so badly wanted to pick the call but I just can¡¯t go running into his arms.

    Staring at my phone, I watched it ring till it stopped without answering it. Marvy had urged me to pick but I didn¡¯t, I just stared at the name and the fact that he was calling me calmed me down and it didn¡¯t take long for my panic attack to stop.

    My heartbeat calmed and I was starting to breathe properly as I stared at the phone until it stopped ringing, it started ringing again and I was d until I became fully calm.

    I really wanted to hear his voice, I wanted to hear him whisper nice things to me, I wanted to hear him tease me while also trying to tell me that it isn¡¯t stupid to be having a panic attack because of thunderstorms.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    The rain stopped and my phone also stopped ringing, I was fine now.

    MASON¡¯S POV.

    Thinking of what else to do, I decided that I was going to have a conversation with Aisha and ask her what she wanted from me.

    ¡°Just tell me what you want from me and I¡¯ll do it,¡± I started, ¡°look, I¡¯m ready to pay the child support and for all those years I missed.¡± I added.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want all that,¡± her reply took me aback for a moment as I asked her what she really wanted if it wasn¡¯t money, ¡°I want us to get married.¡± She added and my eyes widened.

    ¡°What?!¡± I let out before I could even think about it and she had the nerve to nod positively, standing her ground.

    ¡°I can¡¯t let my kid grow up with separated parents. I just can¡¯t let him go through that.¡± She added and my shock grew but I tried to calm myself.

    ¡°Look, I have a girlfriend that I¡¯m really serious with,¡± I started, ¡°all this is taking a toll on my rtionship.¡± I exined and it was her turn to act shocked.

    ¡°Do you actually think it is normal for siblings to have a rtionship?¡± She asked and I got angry, clenching my fist, I stood up.

    ¡°We are not real siblings.¡± I said slowly through gritted teeth and Aisha only shrugged.

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter. Look, I just can¡¯t have my child knowing that his dad is fucking his sister, it¡¯s just so fucking disgusting.¡± She added and my mouth dropped open.

    What on earth made me think that I could be civil with her? I¡¯d tried to make things work and try to even satisfy her needs but she keeps asking for something ridiculous and also talking about my rtionship with Ava?

    Not wanting to waste my time on her anymore, I turned to leave but her voice stopped me in my tracks and I turned back to see her staring at me like she¡¯d just achieved something.

    Malik and Larry might be right, what if she¡¯s here for some reasons I don¡¯t know.

    ¡°It¡¯s too early for us to start fighting in front of our son now, don¡¯t you think?¡± She asked and my eyes darted to the boy who was already staring at us.

    ¡°He already looks up to you, don¡¯t ruin it by raising your voice or walking out on his mum like you just tried to do.¡± She added.

    How dare she?

 Chapter 109

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Shocked about how much she knew about me, my eyes levelled her and I just couldn¡¯t help but wonder again about who she really is.

    I had no idea if she was one of my friends but she doesn¡¯t really look like one of them and I still can swear on my life that I have never seen her in my life.

    ¡°Why are you just showing up now?¡± I asked and she raised an eyebrow, ¡°why didn¡¯t you find me years ago, why are you justing now?¡± I added and she also stood to face me.

    ¡°I did, I searched everywhere for you but you were out of the country and I just gave up until I knew you were back.¡± She exined and I exhaled.

    Still confused, pinched down hard on the bridge of my nose as I kept listening to her exining how we met.

    ¡°You won¡¯t stop ranting about Ava on the night we fucked,¡± she continued, ¡°you told me about how much you loved her which was disgusting and from what you told me, I got to know about her and the fact that she¡¯s your sister.¡± She finished and I sighed.

    What if she¡¯s right and I just didn¡¯t remember? What if I was drunk?

    I couldn¡¯t bring myself to ask anymore questions because her answers always rip through me like ws and dagger and all I cared about at this point is Ava.

    ¡°I¡¯m not interested in getting married to you, I¡¯m ready to be a father to the little boy but I¡¯m not ready to get married to you.¡± I exined.

    Although I couldn¡¯t bring myself to be happy about the fact that I have a son, I also couldn¡¯t bring myself to hate the boy.

    After all he¡¯s innocent and my son. Staring at Aisha and trying to get her answer to what I¡¯d said about being unable to marry her.

    She didn¡¯t say anything and I couldn¡¯t help but just stare at the boy. I had no idea if things would work out well.

    How am I going to exin it to Ava? How will I be able to work things out with her? My mind is conflicted and I kept having this internal battle with myself but what I¡¯m sure about is not deserting my son.

    If that¡¯s what I have to do to make things work out then I¡¯ll do it, I¡¯ll be there for him like he deserves me to be.

    Walking out of my house, I got to my car and was about to get into it and drive out when I saw a car packed right in front of my house.

    Staying behind, I watched as Ava got out of the car and for a moment I was excited, I¡¯d thought she¡¯d finally find it somewhere in her heart to at least try and hear me out.

    Closing my car door, I turned to look at her properly and our eyes met but she broke the eye contact and looked away before making her way into the house.

    Quickly, I sprinted toward her and followed after her. Aisha was still in the sitting room with her son and I didn¡¯t miss the disgusted look on her face before she took her son and walked out of the sitting room.

    ¡°Wow.¡± I heard Ava mutter, she must¡¯ve thought I didn¡¯t hear but I heard and I knew that she wasn¡¯t expecting Aisha to still be around.

    I watched her make her way to her room slowly, she was already crying and tried to keep it away from me, I went with her to see her packing the rest of her things.

    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you?!¡± I yelled, I was done trying to let her see that I¡¯m innocent, I was done trying to fight back for her and she just shoved me aside like she¡¯s also innocent.

    ¡°What is wrong with me?¡± Her voice broke, ¡°how dare you, Mason? You have the fucking nerve to ask what¡¯s wrong with me?¡± She added and I just couldn¡¯t let her stand there and me me.

    ¡°Yes, why on earth are you acting like I wasn¡¯t also hit with sudden news?¡± I asked, ¡°every fucking day, I wake up with a lot of pain and you stand there and get to act like you¡¯re the fucking victim?¡± I added.

    I saw her lip part as though she wanted to say something but they closed shut immediately and she didn¡¯t say anything but continued packing her bags.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°You fucking got married during those years that I was away, it¡¯s been years that we¡¯ve been apart and you got married to another man so why on earth are you acting like I cheated on you or something?!¡± I yelled.

    My anger is taking over me, my blood rushing and my fist clenching. I badly wanted to hit or break something and stay away from her but I couldn¡¯t let her see me in that state.

    ¡°If life was so good for you and your marriage had worked out you wouldn¡¯t even be here with me!¡± I finished and just at that moment I felt a sting on my cheek.

    I opened my eyes to see Ava breathing heavily in front of me, her face drenched in her own tears and my fingers traced the part where she had pped hard.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare!¡± She finally said, raising her index finger at me, ¡°you can keep fucking women and having kids for all I care but I am warning you right now to never show your disgusting, cheating face in front of me ever again.¡± She added and I scoffed.

    Without saying another word, I stormed out of the room leaving her to do whatever she wanted to, whatever works for her.

    If leaving and not trying to hear or work things out with me is what she wants then I won¡¯t stop her from doing that.

 Chapter 110

    Aisha¡¯s POVThis content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    The n was to get married with Mason using my child as an excuse and the perfect bait to get him.

    I¡¯ve epted my fate a long time ago and I¡¯d raised my son by myself all these years since it was mostly my fault that I got pregnant and he can¡¯t remember what went down between us.

    I shouldn¡¯t have slept with him when he was extremely drunk and mumbling about some girl named  Ava. I should¡¯ve left him alone but he was too hard to resist under the club light and leaving him all by himself was hard for me to do.

    Closing my eyes, I remembered how he¡¯d kissed me that night, he¡¯d mistakenly called me Ava but I didn¡¯t care, he knew just the right spot to touch.

    And when we had sex, it was the most beautiful performance that I¡¯d seen in a while. I¡¯d thought a little pleasure wouldn¡¯t hurt but I had no idea that I was going to get pregnant.

    When I found out, I searched all over for him but I couldn¡¯t find him and it wasn¡¯t until some weeks ago did I eventually see his face on the head of the news stating how rich he¡¯d be.

    He was smiling proudly with one of those rich men suits and I just knew that I wouldn¡¯t miss my chance this time.

    Brainstorming, I found out everything that I needed to find out about him including where he stayed, his job and how much he¡¯s worth.

    I needed this, my child especially needed it. He needs to grow up with his father, he doesn¡¯t deserve to live with just a single mother especially since his dad is rich.

    Finally finding a way to secure a future for me and my child, I made sure I did all I could to find Mason and now that I¡¯ve eventually gotten him, I don¡¯t care what I have to do, I¡¯m going to make sure that he¡¯s mine alone.

    He belongs to me and Ava can go to hell for all I care.

    Despite everything I tried, the oue wasn¡¯t what I was expecting, I¡¯d thought I could just get into the house and try to ruin the rtionship between him and his step sister but my appearance only seemed to send her out of the house as Mason tried to get her back.

    He made it clear to me already that he isn¡¯t going to get married to me but would act like a father to my child.

    That alone isn¡¯t enough for me, I need to be his wife and just when I was trying to think of what to do to get Mason to agree to marry me since I wouldn¡¯t take No for an answer, she had to show up.

    I could see the desire to run into each other¡¯s arms in their eyes and the moment Ava walked in, Mason ran behind her to catch up with her, making my stomach churn in disgust.

    Watching as he followed her to her room, I felt disgusted and a part of me just wanted to snap Ava¡¯s head out of her neck.

    ¡°Wait right here for mommy, okay?¡± I said to my son as I exined to him that I needed to go check what¡¯s wrong with his daddy.

    Smiling, he obeyed me as he sat on the couch and turned the TV on to his favorite cartoon channel. I got upstairs to overhear Mason and Ava arguing and my heart leapt for joy.

    Angrily, Mason stormed out of the room and mmed the door shut behind him. I dared note out of where I was hiding so I just stood there.

    Smiling to myself and feeling aplished, I couldn¡¯t believe that my n to make them drift farther apart is finally working.

    ¡°Was it this easy to ruin their rtionship?¡± I asked as I smiled to myself proudly.

    I never thought that Ava would be so stupid to an extent that she wouldn¡¯t even try to fight for her love but had instead allowed me toe between them.

    Whatever it¡¯s going to be then it¡¯ll be her loss and this way I can have Mason to myself because for as long as Ava still roams the house, Mason would never notice me.

    Rushing back downstairs so that Ava wouldn¡¯t meet me in the hallway when she¡¯sing downstairs, I joined my son in watching the cartoon and we both joked around.

    The footstepsing from the stairs made me turn my head in that direction and I felt a kind of inner happiness when I saw Ava walking down with her bag with her.

    Her face was swollen and her eyes were red from the amount of tears that she¡¯d shed. She was still sniffing and she tried to keep herself from crying even more but I couldn¡¯t miss the single tear that dropped.

    ¡°Are you leaving because of me?¡± I asked her as she lifted her gaze to look at me. I couldn¡¯t help the smirk that formed on my face when I saw how miserable she looked.

    She couldn¡¯t answer my question and she just kept sniffing.

    ¡°You know,¡± I continued, making sure that whatever I¡¯m going to say next would sting her real bad, ¡°you and Mason could¡¯ve never worked out.¡± I finished and her eyes snapped at me.

    I was getting the reaction I wanted, she¡¯s angry, ¡°you both are supposed to be family and it¡¯s just a shame to fuck around with family members.¡± I added, not minding her anger.

    ¡°You see that?¡± I continued, pointing towards my son, ¡°That¡¯s Mason¡¯s child and you¡¯re just his sister. I¡¯m sure you weren¡¯t expecting him to leave his son for you?¡± I added in a loudugh that got her even angry.

    Unable to get her words out, I watched as she ran out of the house like a lovelorn woman and not caring, I went back to the couch to join my child.

 Chapter 111

    Aisha¡¯s POV

    ¡°You see, Daddy and mommy are going to get married soon and we¡¯ll be living here permanently,¡± I exined to my son who listened with keen interest.

    ¡°So, I¡¯ll have my own room and sleep in a big bed?¡± He asked childishly and I nodded as I pulled him closer to me in a hug.

    ¡°It¡¯s your father¡¯s house, baby,¡± I answered, ¡°all these belong to you because you¡¯re the real son.¡± I assured and his eyes glinted with joy.

    I just knew that he was looking forward to the day Mason and I would finally get married because he couldn¡¯t wait to be on the groom¡¯s side and wear a suit.

    All my child would always talk about is how Mason and I would get married and throw a really big wedding party and although I knew I haven¡¯t seeded in that yet, I knew I wouldn¡¯t stop until he gets married to me.

    ***

    The days passed quickly and it¡¯s almost a week in Mason¡¯s house. I was living the life that I¡¯d dreamed of and even my son enjoyed this new development.

    Although Mason was barely in the house, It was still what I wanted because I got to live like a queen and all I ever do is fix the food and sit around watching television.

    ¡°Mommy?¡± Khalid, my son, called my attention and I looked away from the show I was watching to look at him briefly before turning back to the TV.

    ¡°When is the wedding?¡± He asked and I drew him closer to me as I ced his head on my chest and gently stroked his hair.

    ¡°Why the rush, Khalid?¡± I answered his question with another of my own and he exined that it¡¯s been days since I told him that Mason and I would get married.

    ¡°Are you and daddy not getting married anymore?¡± He asked and I pouted as I spread his cheeks so it would seem like he¡¯s smiling.

    ¡°We¡¯re getting married, Daddy and mommy just need to prepare and get some things ready before nning the big wedding party.¡± I exined, pinching his cheek and making himugh hard.

    Heid on my chest while I concentrated on the TV show that he¡¯d distracted me from earlier.

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t daddy like me?¡± Khalid asked and I was taken aback by his question, I wasn¡¯t expecting him to ask this kind of question.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°Of course he does, what are you talking about, baby?¡± I replied and he sighed as he lifted his head off my chest to stare at me.

    ¡°He is never happy to see me, he never wees me and tells me that he misses me all those years and I just think he hates me.¡± Khalid exined and my heart ached for him.

    This is why I must get Mason to marry me, my son doesn¡¯t deserve to wake up each day wondering if his father likes him.

    ¡°Of course he missed you, he¡¯s just trying to adjust and get used to your sudden appearance. Give him some time and you¡¯ll see how much he loves you.¡± I reassured him.

    ***

    MASON¡¯S POV

    After the big fight with Ava, all I¡¯ve been is a shadow of myself. I¡¯ve been restless and all I had in my mind was how to find her and apologize to her.

    Finally gathering my courage, I left my office and drove directly to her ce of work without caring if she needed to work.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± She asked coldly, not lifting her head from the piles of paperworks in front of her.

    Understanding why she probably doesn¡¯t want to look at me, I asked her to step out for a cup of coffee with me.

    I was expecting her to yell at me and tell me to get out of her sight but she agreed and for the first time since I¡¯ve been here, she lifted her gaze to look at me.

    We both went to the nearest coffee shop and like I usually do, I ordered her coffee for her just the way she likes it and the waitress left.

    She exined how the sudden appearance of Aisha and Khalid made her feel and I could understand things from her point of view now that she exined properly.

    I can¡¯t imagine how hard it would¡¯ve been for her when she found out that the man she loved had a child with another woman that¡¯s not her.

    Her hurt made my chest tighten and I hated myself for putting her through this because she doesn¡¯t deserve it.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ava. I really am sorry and if I could take it all back, I would. If I could turn back the hands of time and prevent all these from happening, I swear I would. I¡¯m sorry.¡± I apologized.

    Taking her hands in mine, I didn¡¯t do anything to hide or stop the tears that threatened to let itself free. I really felt bad for what I did and I didn¡¯t hold back as I exined how much pressure I was under.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry too.¡± She apologized, her voice was faint and it broke and I could tell that it was as a result of all the tears.

    We settled our rift and I felt a sense of peace surge through me as I let out a sigh of relief

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to sound bad,¡± she started and I raised an eyebrow, ¡°but I really can¡¯t bring myself to be happy about the fact that you now have a child.¡± She added.

    ¡°I¡¯d envisioned it already, I had a whole future with you nned and that included giving birth to your first child but now that you have a child, I just don¡¯t know how to feel.¡± She exined.

    I could understand her because I¡¯m going through the same thing. I exined to her how I understood what she meant and how I¡¯ve been unable to bring myself to even touch the child.

    ¡°I feel like a bad father and that¡¯s one thing I swore I would never be to my child.¡± I finished with a sigh.

    ¡°You can ept him, I don¡¯t mind,¡± she smiled, ¡°after all he¡¯s your son but, I can¡¯t promise that I¡¯ll go back to loving you. At least not yet.¡± She added.

    Agreeing with her, I couldn¡¯t be happier that things are finally settled with Ava.

 Chapter 112

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Driving back home, I was so stressed out but I was also d about the fact that things looked like it¡¯s finally worked out with Ava.

    She needs a little more time alone to process things since she already told me she couldn¡¯t bring herself to loving me back again just yet. It hurts but I understood how she felt.

    It would be selfish of me to request more from her than this so I¡¯d already nned on giving her the space and time she needs from me.

    I¡¯d nned on going home to tell Aisha that I¡¯d be moving her and her son to a different apartment. Things wouldn¡¯t possibly go well between Ava and I if she keeps staying in the house with the child.

    ¡°This is so exhausting especially since I still can¡¯t remember a single thing about her.¡± I sighed.

    I¡¯d called my friends to talk to them and they were also a little bit happy for me that I¡¯d settled things with Ava.

    ¡°Well, he¡¯s your son at least and for Ava toe back to the house, you need to move them away but notpletely abandon the boy.¡± Malik advised me and I sighed.

    I told them I¡¯d call themter to talk about how things went and they all asked me to be good before hanging up the call.

    I¡¯m going to talk to Aisha about child support, ask her how much she needs each month for the upkeep of the child and perhaps draw out a timetable for when we¡¯ll both get the child each week.

    I had no idea what to do with the child and even if I got custody of the child for three days in a week, I had no idea how to take care of him.

    I don¡¯t know what he likes, his favorite cartoon and all the things that could help us get to connect to each other and know ourselves more.

    Sighing, I drove into the driveway and got out of the car, bracing myself and thinking of ways to start the conversation with Aisha.

    I got into my room and for a moment I¡¯d thought I got into the wrong room, taking a look behind me, I knew damn well that this is my room and not hers.

    But, why is sheying on my bed with only lingerie on? She¡¯s almost naked.

    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re home,¡± she started as she got out of bed slowly and made her way towards me.

    Pulling my tie and running her fingers down my chest, I swallowed hard and clenched my fist in anger as I silently prayed for my self control to be at bay so I wouldn¡¯t hit her.

    ¡°What the hell are you doing here?¡± I asked, trying not to raise my voice because of howte it was already.

    ¡°What do you mean? I was waiting for you and I know how stressed you¡¯ll be so that¡¯s what I¡¯m here for.¡± She replied as she pulled off her night gown in front of me.

    ¡°Get out.¡± I swallowed but she didn¡¯t listen and she¡¯d even tried toe unto me again, her hand almost getting to my trousers as she fumbled with my belt.

    Holding her hand and yanking it off my body, ¡°I¡¯m only going to say this one more time, GET THE FUCK OUT OF MY ROOM!¡± The roaring effect of my voice sent her out of my room immediately.

    How could she do something like that? Lay on my bed in a sexy lingerie and think I¡¯ll just pounce on her and then what? I couldn¡¯t believe she would ever try something as cheap as this.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    I love Ava and will never cheat on her.

    Pulling my clothes off, I decided to take a shower as I thought of how to get Aisha out of my house. Finally knowing what to do, I walked to bed to sleep.

    ****

    Getting ready for work, I walked down the stairs to see Aisha sitting on the couch and watching TVfortably.

    It irks me to know howfortable she¡¯d be in a house that isn¡¯t hers in the first ce.

    ¡°Get your things, you¡¯re leaving my house and that too, today.¡± I ordered as I stopped in front of her and picked the remote to turn the TV off.

    Ignoring me, she turned the TV back on and I felt my body vibrate in frustration. I wished I could just pull her up and throw her out of the house.

    ¡°Look, I¡¯m trying to be civilized and nice so again, pack your stuff and get your son¡­¡±

    ¡°Our son,¡± I was still talking when she corrected me and I ran my fingers through my hair, ¡°he¡¯s our son. He¡¯s yours just as much as he¡¯s mine and you¡¯ll take the responsibility and be his father!¡± She added firmly, standing to face me.

    ¡°What responsibility are we talking about her?¡± I asked with a smile, it all just seemed funny to me.

    ¡°You¡¯ll marry me.¡± She said shamelessly and I bursted outughing. Theughter was to suppress my impending anger.

    ¡°Oh please, stop being so fucking delusional,¡± I finally said, ¡°I¡¯m in love with someone else and that person isn¡¯t you. I would never marry you.¡± I finished and I could see her eyes turn red in anger.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you ashamed of yourself?¡± She spat and I only shrugged as I put my hand in my pocket, ¡°It¡¯s so fucking disgusting that you shove your dick up your step sister¡¯s pussy and you¡¯re okay with it.¡± She added as she looked at me with disgust.

    ¡°Again, it is none of your business.¡± I responded as I pulled out the key and handed it to her, not caring about her anger or outburst.

    ¡°I want you and your son out of my house before I get back and trust me, you don¡¯t want me to meet you here when I get back.¡± I finished.

    Turning to take my leave, my lungs almost closed shut when I saw Khalid behind me looking like he was about to cry.

    Groaning, I stormed out of the house.

 Chapter 113

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Getting into my car, I mmed the steering wheel as hard as I could before driving to the office. I couldn¡¯t get the look on Khalid¡¯s face when I turned out of my head.

    He had just seen me send him and his mother packing out of the house. Frustrated, I tried to bury myself with work but I couldn¡¯t.

    I kept getting distracted and I was unable to fully concentrate on what I was doing. Frustrated, I asked my secretary to cancel all of my appointments for the day before getting out of thepany.

    I needed some time to myself, I wanted to think about what I was doing and what to do next. I needed to think about how to get Ava back into the house.

    Driving off, I drove directly to a bar and I¡¯d already made up my mind to drink till I no longer knew what was going on around me. I wanted to drink till I lost consciousness because the pressure on me was killing me.

    cing my order for shots of tequ, I picked up my phone and punched Ava¡¯s number to call her. She¡¯s the only person I wanted to talk to.

    She¡¯s the only one I need in time like this and I don¡¯t know how far I can go without her by my side. The phone kept ringing and I¡¯d thought she was ignoring me until she picked it up.

    ¡°Hello?¡± She said softly into the phone and I let out a sigh that I had no idea I was holding in the first ce.

    The sound of her voice is like music to my ears and for a moment just by hearing her voice, I felt a little bit better. If her voice can make me this calm I know how much her presence would help me.

    ¡°I need you.¡± I sniffed into the phone, I had no idea what was wrong with me and I felt like I¡¯d lost all sense of masculinity that I had in me.

    ¡°What? Are you okay?¡± She asked and I could hear the worry in her voice as the questions kepting.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I really need you here, Please Ava. Everything is just so upsetting and overwhelming and I don¡¯t know how long I can hold on for so please.¡± I begged and hoped that I¡¯ll get a positive response from her.

    ¡°I can¡¯t, Mason. I can¡¯te to you and run into your arms or make all of this disappear because I just don¡¯t have the ability to do that.¡± She finally said after a while of silence and I groaned.

    ¡°Please. Juste here, I really need to see you.¡± I just wanted her and even if she wouldn¡¯t talk to me, I only wanted to feel her presence.

    ¡°I can¡¯t, Mason,¡± she responded, standing her ground, ¡°remember I told you when we met, I just can¡¯t go back to loving you like all of these never happened.¡± She exined, reminding me of thest time we met.

    ¡°I can¡¯t just go back to living with a man who I know has a child elsewhere that isn¡¯t mine, my heart just can¡¯t handle that. It¡¯s too much for me.¡± She added.

    ¡°Ava¡­¡± I called softly but she continued talking anyway, not wanting to hear what I wanted to say.

    ¡°You can¡¯t take the child away from his mother now so the best thing to do is to get married to her and I know how much she wants that too.¡± Ava finished and my frustration just keeps building up.

    ¡°I can¡¯t and I will not get married to Aisha,¡± I replied firmly, ¡°Ava, C¡¯mon. I love you, I always have and I always will. I can¡¯t get married to her because I want to get married to you!¡± I finished hoping she would understand.

    ¡°I¡¯ll hang up now, take care of yourself.¡± She said before hanging up on me.

    How does she expect me to be fine when we both know that I can never be until she¡¯s back in my life.

    Not giving up, I sent her the address of the bar I¡¯m in and told her I was going to do something stupid likemitting suicide if she doesn¡¯t show up.

    My phone rang multiple times and all the calls were from Ava, I ignored every one of them and she resorted to sending texts telling me not to do anything.

    It¡¯s been an hour and I was the happiest when I saw Ava looking through the bunch of crowds in search of me, she finally saw me and made her way towards me.

    ¡°What is wrong with you?!¡± She yelled as she took the ss of tequ from me and dropped it on the table.

    ¡°I knew you¡¯d show up.¡± I smiled and she rolled her eyes as she scolded me about the text I¡¯d sent to her and how drunk I already am.

    ¡°You love me,¡± I sighed, ¡°I can see it in your eyes, your actions and I know damn well that you can¡¯t deny the fact that you do love me.¡± I smiled again but she didn¡¯t say anything.

    She looked really beautiful and just a nce at her reminded me of all of the reasons I love her and would never let her go.

    I was stupid to do that once, I wouldn¡¯t be stupid to do it again.

    ¡°I sent her and her son packing, I just can¡¯t have them in my house.¡± I finally announced and her eyes widened in utter shock.

    ¡°Why?¡± She asked as she downed the tequ I was supposed to be drinking, ¡°even the child?¡± She added and I nodded affirmatively.

    ¡°Because I want you in the house with me.¡± I answered and I could see the look she gave me. She couldn¡¯t believe I would do that.

    Ava finally decided to drink with me and just the fact that she was with me was everything I needed. Tipsy, I booked a hotel and we crashed there.

    It was the best night ever and the sex with her was even more passionate, beautiful and intense than I remembered.

    ¡°I missed you.¡± I kissed her as I fought to catch my breath.

 Chapter 114

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Groaning and with a bad headache, I turned on the bed as I tried to open my eyes slightly. I shook and almost fell off the bed when I realized I was naked with Mason in bed with me.

    How did this happen? How did I end up in bed with someone I was supposed to stay away from?

    My headache grew worse as I tried to remember how I got here and it eventually dawned on me. I was worried about him when he said he was going tomit suicide and so I went to the address he sent to me.

    I groaned and mentally pped myself when I remembered that we had sex, I knew it was a bad idea to sleep with him especially when he¡¯s going through a lot of things.

    We were both tipsy if not drunk. Holding my head, I stood from the bed and stared down at him. He was sleeping so peacefully like he had nothing to worry about.

    Even though he¡¯d told me that he has handled things his own way, I couldn¡¯t help but think about how he has a son and my blood boiled again.

    I can¡¯t possibly see him again even if I want to because Aisha and his son had alreadye between us and he needs to take care of them.

    Vowing not to meet with him anymore no matter what or get in between him and his newly found family. I packed my things as fast as I could and left the hotel in a hurry before he woke up.

    Getting to where I stayed, I went directly to my room to get ready for work. My headache got worse and I had no other choice but to take Tylenol for it.

    I got to work but whatever I did, I couldn¡¯t concentrate. I knew I needed to sleep and rest more but I also needed to do something to get my mind off the stupid decision of sleeping with Mason while drunkst night.

    ¡°Ava, get the report for thatpany ready in¡­.¡± My boss was still talking but stopped when he got to me and I managed to keep my eyes open.

    ¡°What is wrong with you?¡± He asked and I managed to tell him I was fine which he didn¡¯t agree with.

    ¡°You don¡¯t look fine,¡± he pointed out with a sigh, ¡°you¡¯ve been working too hard, you should take the day off.¡± He added and I shook my head negatively.

    My boss, who happens to be my mom¡¯s friend, has always looked out for me and we both know that whatever it is that¡¯s wrong with me isn¡¯t work rted.

    ¡°I¡¯m really fine, Sir, I just need-¡±

    ¡°You need to rest, you look pale so take the day off and rest, eat too because you really need it.¡± He cuts in and I knew that he had his mind made up already.

    ¡°Thank you, Sir.¡± I muttered in appreciation as I picked up my bag and went to a nearby restaurant to get breakfast since my stomach was asking for it already.

    My phone rang and when I checked to see who it was, I was relieved. Picking up my mother¡¯s call, we spoke for over an hour as we tried to catch up on a lot of things.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°How is Mason and everything between you both?¡± She asked and although I wasn¡¯t expecting her to ask me about him, I knew she would.

    ¡°Everything is fine and we¡¯re good.¡± I lied with a dry cough. I couldn¡¯t tell her that I recently found out he has a child. I needed to protect him.

    It wasn¡¯t my ce to tell or break the news, he would eventually tell our parents whenever he¡¯s ready but for now, I don¡¯t have to say a word.

    ¡°Why is your voice so down?¡± She asked and I coughed again, ¡°I could barely hear what you¡¯re saying. Does it have anything to do with work?¡± She added and I justughed.

    If only she knew what I have had to handle all alone.

    ¡°Your temp position would end by the end of this month,¡± she pointed out and I agreed with her, ¡°if you want, I can put in a good word for you to get a permanent post.¡± She offered.

    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry about that mom,¡± I protested, ¡°Mason offered me a job at hispany already.¡± I added and she let out an excited shriek.

    I could tell that she was happy that not only will I be working with Mason, we would get to be together too. She¡¯s happy for me.

    ¡°But I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll take it,¡± I broke out and everything went silent for a while before my mom asked why.

    ¡°I¡¯m thinking of leaving San Francisco and going back to LA to meet Nicole and maybe set things up there again.¡± I exined and she let out a heavy sigh.

    ¡°Why would you want to leave?¡± She asked, ¡°did something happen?¡± She added and I could hear the worry in her voice.

    ¡°Nothing really, I just need some time off by myself.¡± I replied and I didn¡¯t need to exin further for my mother to know that something was off.

    ¡°All of these just don¡¯t sound right to me, I¡¯m sorry Ava but just walk me through here?¡± She said and it was my turn to sigh.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Mason just might not be the right man for me and maybe this time away from him would help me decide on what and what not to do.¡± I exined.

    ¡°Something must have happened. Did he do something? You know you both are just trying to figure things out again and things like this are bound to happen.¡± She started with her lecture but I wasn¡¯t having it.

    ¡°Let¡¯s not go there, Mom. I don¡¯t want to talk about it.¡± I responded and I was d when she didn¡¯t probe any further.

    We spoke for some more before finally hanging up the call.

 Chapter 115

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Thinking of what to do next, I picked my phone back up to call Nicole and I was d when she didn¡¯t dy in picking up the call.

    Trying my best not to cry, I exined everything to her in detail and eventually asked her to put in a good word for me with her boss because I want to start living in Los Angeles permanently.

    ¡°I really just need to leave all this behind and I¡¯d love to work and stay with you if that¡¯s not a problem?¡± I sniffed as I spoke.

    Everything happening around was too overwhelming and I knew that if I didn¡¯t let it all go and leave it all behind my mental health would deteriorate so badly.

    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s never a problem,¡± Nicole¡¯s voice jolted me out of my thoughts and I was relieved.

    ¡°But I just gotta ask, you¡¯re not giving up on Mason because you found out he has a child, right?¡± She asked and I sighed.

    She sounds right but wrong at the same time. I¡¯m giving up not just on Mason but on everything and I just need to be somewhere where I¡¯ll get some sense of peace and San Francisco isn¡¯t the right ce.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Nicole,¡± I sighed as I ran my fingers through my hair, ¡°I just don¡¯t know what is right and wrong at this point.¡± I added.

    ¡°Think about it, Ava.¡± She advised me and told me not to make a decision I might eventually regret.

    ¡°Exactly why I need to leave here, I need to be alone to think about it properly. I need some time away from him and all of these dramas before I decide because I just can¡¯t handle the pressure.¡± I exined to Nicole.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m just saying when Mason left without words years ago, you spent the most of your life dejected and cussed him out for years.¡± She started, exining what happened to me when Mason left years ago.

    ¡°And now he¡¯s back and he wants you more than anything else and don¡¯t ask me how I know because I just know,¡± she continued, ¡°he loves you so much, Ava, but now you¡¯re the one leaving him without words. That¡¯s really not fair.¡± She finished and I rolled my eyes.

    Maybe she¡¯s right, maybe I shouldn¡¯t just leave without informing Mason but I have my mind made up already and I don¡¯t want him knowing where I¡¯ll be going to so it¡¯s decided already.

    ¡°Think it through before you leave.¡± She tried to advise me but I refused and told her that my mind was made up already before hanging up on her.

    The week went by quickly and I wasted no time in booking a flight. Mason called multiple times but I refused to pick it up and I deleted his text even before I could think of reading it.

    I finally decided to delete his number because this time away from him was what I needed and since my temporary spot at where I work has expired, I had nothing to do here anymore.

    Thepany threw a farewell party for me and I¡¯d even gotten an award for being a good employee. I was happy that I could at least achieve something.

    While I was still partying and celebrating, Mason showed up and I knew he would try to talk to me as he made his way to me.

    ¡°Ava please, I need to talk to you.¡± He pleaded but I only tilted my head to the side as I walked past him to a guy that I don¡¯t even know his name.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± I apologized to the random guy who immediately looked confused and without saying anything else, I smacked my lips on his and kissed him in front of Mason.

    I broke the kiss and the confused look on the guy¡¯s face intensified but soon disappeared and turned into an amused look.

    Of course he enjoyed the kiss.

    Turning back to look at Mason, I raised an eyebrow as if to dare him to try talking to me after what he¡¯d just seen and I could see his eyes turning red in anger.

    ¡°You know what, Ava?¡± He started as I continued staring at him, ¡°I¡¯m done. I¡¯m done trying to fight for our love and give it another chance. You do whatever it is you want, I¡¯m fucking done!¡± He was almost yelling.

    I watched him storm out of the party in anger and I felt bad. Part of me wanted to go with him but I couldn¡¯t. This is good, Mason leaving and giving up on me is just what I want.

    No longer enjoying the party, I had to leave and lie to them that I wasn¡¯t feeling too well but they should have their fun.

    I was unable to sleep and my eyes were open as the night went deeper into darkness. Finally, giving up on trying to sleep, I decided to leave my eyes open until they got tired.

    ***This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    My bedside rm jolted me out of my sleep and I got ready to go to the airport and leave San Francisco for LA.

    We finally arrived and Nicole picked me up at the airport, on seeing her, I couldn¡¯t hold myself back as I ran into her arms.

    ¡°Let it all out.¡± She whispered into my ear and it didn¡¯t take long for me to start crying. All my pent up emotions were let out on Nicole¡¯s shoulder at the airport.

    When she was sure I was fine, we went to a nearby restaurant and she made sure to order a big breakfast for me iming that I needed it to regain all the strength I¡¯d lost already.

    We finished eating and she drove to her house to see Ryan and her daughter. Looking out the window, I couldn¡¯t keep my tears at bay as I thought about Mason.

    Is this really the end of the Chapter with Mason?

 Chapter 116

    Ava¡¯s POV

    It¡¯s been a week since San Francisco and for every day that passes, I got a call from Mason but brought myself to ignore every one of his calls.

    ¡°Mason!¡± Nicole called into the phone when he called her and my eyes widened, I wasn¡¯t expecting him to call her.

    ¡°Uhm, sure.¡± She added before standing up to hand me the phone but I refused. I didn¡¯t want to talk to him at least not yet, I still needed time to think.

    ¡°You know what, why don¡¯t you just call back and I¡¯ll try and talk to her?¡± Nicole assured him and he must have agreed because he hung up and Nicole turned to look at me as if to ask if I was alright.

    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you?¡± She groaned as she pulled on her hair as if she was going crazy but I only sighed.

    ¡°You know, Maybe Aisha is right and we shouldn¡¯t be in a romantic rtionship in the first ce because we¡¯re supposed to be siblings.¡± I exined and Nicole just rolled her eyes.

    ¡°Well, Fuck Aisha or whatever the fuck her name is, what does she know?¡± She responded and Iughed.

    ¡°Also, before I forget, my boss wants an interview with you next week, Monday to be precise and you both can talk about a suitable position for you to work in.¡± She announced and I shrieked.

    I¡¯ve been here for a week with absolutely nothing to do and this news might just be the best news that I¡¯ll have in a while.

    Excited, I told Nicole to let us go shopping for a suitable suit for the interview and she couldn¡¯t disagree because of how excited I was.

    We both went shopping and after sessfully draining ourselves in the shopping mall, we decided to have lunch at a nearby eatery.

    ¡°I¡¯m starving! Why did I agree to go with you?¡± Nicole pouted dramatically as she ced her head on the table making meugh.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    The waiter came to our table and looked shocked upon seeing me, he wouldn¡¯t take his eyes off me until it was time for us to ce an order.

    Taking our order, he stared at me onest time before leaving and soon he came back with just what we¡¯d ordered.

    ¡°He is totally checking you out,¡± Nicole said, pointing out the obvious to me as I rolled my eyes ¡°you can use him for a rebound and maybe forget about Mason.¡± She suggested and that made me choke on my food.

    ¡°Why would you even suggest something like that?¡± I asked, almost yelling at her. ¡°The answer is No.¡± I added firmly and she only shrugged.

    We finished eating and decided to pay for our food when the waiter stopped me to have a word with me.

    ¡°I really am sorry for, you know, stopping you but did you by chance attend Westwood College?¡± He asked and my eyes widened in shock.

    Does he know me from school? I tried to remember him just by staring at him but I still couldn¡¯t pinpoint where I knew him from.

    ¡°Yes, I did.¡± I answered slowly while still trying to make sense out of his face.

    ¡°I knew it,¡± he responded excitedly, ¡°well, do you remember the guy you tutored?¡± He asked again and I raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°I tutored a lot of guys and I don¡¯t really remember if you or anyone you might know were one of them.¡± Iughed and he nodded.

    ¡°It¡¯s me, Xander,¡± he introduced and my mouth dropped open, ¡°I came over to your house, met your family and kissed you?¡± He tried to make me remember but only ended up getting me even more pissed.

    Remembering him and how he¡¯d left me after just one kiss made my blood boil in anger and I could feel the hotness building up inside of me as I stared at him.

    I never thought I would ever get to meet him again, let alone him being our waiter and reminding me of our stupid old time.

    ¡°Wow.¡± I muttered and his smile was so wide he probably thought I was going to ask for a hug. He was shocked when I hissed and walked out of the restaurant in anger.

    Nicole was still inside the restaurant while I didn¡¯t care about that but only went to wait for her beside the car. It wasn¡¯t long before she also ran out of the restaurant and tried to catch her breath when she got to me.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t have to run out like that, do you know how hard catching up with you was?¡± She asked but I didn¡¯t say anything.

    ¡°You know what? Fuck them all, all of them. Fuck Mason, Fuck Xander and his stupid cute hair, Fuck my ex husband. They can all go to hell for all I care!¡± I cussed as soon as we got into the car.

    Nicole onlyughed at me as she drove, ¡°it¡¯s not funny. I¡¯ve always had such bad luck with men but lucky you, you got married and have a child with your college days sweetheart.¡± I snapped breathlessly and Nicole sighed.

    ¡°Your ex husband was nothing but a dick, mason wasn¡¯t that bad and Xander might actually have a reason for disappearing.¡± She tried to assure me but I was done trying to be understanding.

    ¡°Just please give Xander a chance to exin himself and the reason he left if he ever calls or tries to meet up with you.¡± She added and I raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°And how will he be able to do that?¡± I asked, oblivious to what Nicole was talking about.

    ¡°Well, you know, I might¡¯ve given him your number.¡± She let out and my jaw dropped open.

    That was a Nicole thing to do and no amount of yelling would change that. We finally got home and soon retired to bed.

    Trying to sleep, I tossed and turned on my bed and couldn¡¯t help but think of Xander.

 Chapter 117

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I got ready to go to the library to pick up some books that had to do with the job interview I would be going to the following week.

    Hurriedly, I picked out the books and turned to leave the library when I collided into someone and the books went ttering to the ground.

    Bending to pick it up back, I tried to apologize when the person also crouched in front of me and I lifted my gaze to see Xander right in front of me.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I wasn¡¯t looking and¡­¡± he was still talking when I angrily picked up my books and left. My anger came rushing back and all the pain started bing fresh.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Please, Ava. Just wait.¡± He called and he won¡¯t stop following me until he caught up with me.

    ¡°Were you stalking me?¡± I asked as I turned to look at him in anger, ¡°you knew I was going to be here and you followed me, didn¡¯t you?¡± I added and he only shook his head lightly.

    ¡°No, why would I do that? Why would you think I stalked you?¡± He responded.

    ¡°I came to pick up my stacks of books because I¡¯m preparing to take a public service exam that I have to study for.¡± He exined as he lifted the book he picked up for me to see.

    I was curious, I wanted to know what happened to him all those years and why he¡¯d just left me hanging. I wanted to talk about this exam he has but none of it matters anymore.

    Shrugging, I turned to leave but he stopped and asked me to wait as he took the books from me with a smile.

    ¡°At least let me help you to your car?¡± He said and it came out more like a question than just a statement. Agreeing, I handed it all to him and we both walked to my car with Xander holding the stacks of books.

    ¡°I know how mad at me you must be right now and I just want to take this chance to apologize and exin to you why I did what I did.¡± He sighed and I just couldn¡¯t help but ept.

    ¡°I hope you wouldn¡¯t mind having dinner with meter?¡± He asked and I told him I don¡¯t mind and happy, he left after telling me that he¡¯d call meter tonight.

    Nature seemed to be in his favour because the day went by really quick and he¡¯d already sent the time he would being to pick me up and I needed to get ready.

    ¡°You should take this chance to seduce that handsome young man.¡± Nicole said as she helped me apply my makeup and did my hair.

    She was the one who¡¯d picked out my dress and also made my hair that even I knew how sexy I looked when I stared at the mirror but her telling me to seduce Xander was something I didn¡¯t think I¡¯ll be able to do.

    ¡°Are you nuts?¡± I asked and she pushed me slightly, ¡°really, if you were sane you wouldn¡¯t suggest something like this. I literally asked Mason to wait for me.¡± I pointed outughing and she shrugged.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know why things always have to be in favor of men, he had sex with someone who now has his child while you were away so why can¡¯t you do the same?¡± She asked.

    ¡°I got married,¡± I replied and she rolled her eyes, ¡°besides, Xander might be hot and all of that but I can¡¯t use him when every being of me is still in love with Mason.¡± I added and she sighed.

    Xander came to pick me up at the time he promised and he¡¯d even brought a single rose for me, we both went out that night, we took a walk before going to a local restaurant.

    The experience was like no other, it¡¯s the most fun I¡¯ve heard in the three weeks that I¡¯ve been here and I loved every bit of it.

    Xander wouldn¡¯t stop making meugh till my chin and stomach hurt because of how funny he was and I had a lot of fun.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I left without a trace,¡± he started, ¡°a fire somehow broke out in the orphanage and no one knew what caused the fire. We lost some of the kids but we were able to save most. It was horrible.¡± He exined and I gasped as I covered my mouth with my palm.

    I never thought it was this bad, my heart sank and I just couldn¡¯t imagine the amount of lives that were cut short in the fire. I also apologized to him for not being understanding and told him I was sorry for the loss but he only shrugged it off.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s just. It was a bad day.¡± He said with a sour smile and I pitied him.

    I had no idea when I started telling him about the things that happened between Mason and I and how I got married and then got a divorce. I told him about Mason¡¯s child too and he did nothing but listened keenly.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about you for years and I was also unable to get into another rtionship.¡± He started as he picked my hand up.

    ¡°And now, I want you so fucking bad and I really want to be selfish and ask you out but I can¡¯t do that because I know you still love him and it¡¯ll be best if you could go to Mason.¡± He finished.

    I wasn¡¯t expecting him to say something like that, especially since Mason would never ask me to go to Xander or anyone else.

    ¡°He must be going through so much at the moment and having you by his side might be the only thing that was keeping him sane and now that you left he must be going mad.¡± He exined when I asked him why he asked me to go to Mason.

    ¡°So, put aside your feelings and just go to him.¡± He finished and I haven¡¯t been more surprised.

    I told him I would think about it and he smiled, the night ended and he drove me back home with a promise of having dinner with me some other time.

 Chapter 118

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Dropping me off at home, I said my Goodnight to Xander before going into the apartment and I was shocked out of my life when I saw Nicole standing right at the door.

    ¡°Geez! You scared me.¡± I shrieked, covering my mouth and trying dramatically to catch my breath, ¡°what are you doing here?¡± I added before closing the door behind me and walked past her.

    Exhausted, I sunk into one of the couches and rested my back against it as I threw my head back and closed my eyes.

    ¡°I was waiting for you,¡± she responded before handing me a ss of water, ¡°you had a lot of fun, yeah?¡± She asked and I nodded.

    Setting the ss of water down, I told Nicole that I had a lot of things to tell her about my outing with Xander and she couldn¡¯t wait to hear it.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you both had sex, you weren¡¯t even out for up to five hours?¡± She asked and I made a retching sound.

    ¡°You¡¯re really disgusting.¡± I rolled my eyes at her before telling her that that wasn¡¯t it. Without wasting time, I exined everything to her about what Xander said and how he had advised me to go back to Mason.

    ¡°Wow, is he that stunning?¡± She blurted out and I raised an eyebrow, oblivious to what she meant, ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting you to just let him in on everything happening in your life in just one night with him.¡± She added.

    ¡°He felt like an old friend and I just couldn¡¯t help it but open up to him,¡± I answered, ¡°he told me a lot of things and gave me advice that I would love to take.¡± I added with a sigh.

    ¡°I¡¯m taking the first flight back to San Francisco tomorrow, I just have to.¡± I finally spoke again after a while of silence and Nicole looked surprised to hear that.

    ¡°Why?¡± She asked with one of her eyebrows raised, ¡°you just spent three weeks away from Mason and you¡¯re already missing him?¡± She teased.

    ¡°I know, I just can¡¯t afford to waste any more time here.¡± I exined and silently prayed that she understood.

    The frown on her face slowly faded to nothing and for a moment I was scared that my best friend was mad at me until a proud smile formed on her face and she crashed into me.

    ¡°I am so proud of you!¡± She screamed with a p that I had to tell her that it waste and she needed to keep it low and not shout.

    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re finally deciding to take this step forward,¡± she added proudly, ¡°I¡¯m just mad that it took Xander¡¯s advice for you to change your mind and not mine.¡± She finished with a childish pout.

    ¡°You asked me to sleep with him.¡± Iughed and she shrugged as she tried to justify her suggestion.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry but you¡¯ll have to tell your boss that I can¡¯t take that interview. Apologize to him on my behalf because I really am sorry.¡± I said softly and she just brushed me off.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, you just make sure that you work things out with Mason because I¡¯m sure as hell that he won¡¯t give you an opening for the third time, considering how disappointing you are.¡± Sheughed and I hugged her with thanks.

    We talked over wine a whileter before we both retired to bed and I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Mason, I would finally get to see him after three weeks.

    I¡¯d already booked my flight and I was set for the first one leaving for San Francisco tomorrow Morning. Closing my eyes, I tried to catch a sleep.

    ***

    The ring sound from my phone¡¯s rm jolted me awake and I had to get ready for my flight. Getting to the airport, I prepared to get on board when Nicole turned me around.

    ¡°Make a promise to me right now that the next time we¡¯ll see it¡¯ll be for a good cause, like a wedding, a baby on the way or something.¡± She smiled and I nodded.

    ¡°I promise.¡± Getting on board, I couldn¡¯t be any happier when wended in San Francisco. This whole thing seemed like a big deal to me.

    Making my way to the cemetery, I went to my father¡¯s grave. I decided I was going to have a word with my father first and I spoke with him about everything going on and asked for his blessing because I was going back to Mason.

    Leaving the cemetery, I called my mother and she was really happy to hear my voice that her shriek almost made my ears bleed.

    ¡°I¡¯m done thinking about it, mom,¡± I breathed, ¡°and I¡¯m sure Mason would love me forever just the same way Danny loves you.¡± I finished.

    ¡°I know he will, you have my blessings. Go to him and let me know how it goes!¡± She giggled and I hung up as I called a cab to take me to Mason¡¯s house.

    We got there and I saw his car packed in the garage and that gave me the indication I needed to know if he was home.

    Walking up to the door, I let out a heavy breath before knocking on the door and he opened it almost immediately.

    My chest tightened and everything I¡¯d nned to say to him got stuck in my throat as I just stared at him in front of me, he was also shocked to see me.

    ¡°I¡­ I am sorry and I¡­ it¡¯s¡­¡± I stuttered like a little kid that had been caught doing something as I tried to apologize. I thought he would yell at me and ask me to leave.

    My heart leapt for joy when he dragged me closer to him and I fell on his chest as he held me tightly and not wanting to let go.

    He¡¯s not mad at me.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you ever, ever leave me again.¡± His voice broke and happy, I kissed him before staring into his eyes.

    ¡°I promise I won¡¯t.¡±

 Chapter 119

    Mason¡¯s POV

    It¡¯s been a week since Ava moved back into my house and I couldn¡¯t be more overjoyed as things were going so well that this time I was determined for it to remain this way forever.

    Whatever happens, Ava has always been mine and she will always be.

    ¡°I need to start spending some time with Khalid but I have no idea how to go about it, I don¡¯t know what to do. What if I mess things up and he doesn¡¯t want me to be his dad anymore?¡± I sighed.

    Everything is just so overwhelming and I had no idea how I was going to handle Khalid. I didn¡¯t want to be a bad father to him and I also didn¡¯t want my first son to be disappointed in me.

    ¡°Just rx,¡± Ava started as she took the calendar from me and nted a kiss on my lips, ¡°you won¡¯t mess things up and I know you¡¯ll make a great dad.¡± She assured me with a smile.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡± I asked and she nodded with a smile.

    ¡°Of course, plus I¡¯ll be with you through it all because I can see now how overwhelming it all is for you.¡± She answered and that was just the reassurance I needed.

    ¡°It really is.¡± Iughed and we both prepared to go shopping and set up a room for Khalid, we got a lot of toys for him and made sure his room wasfortable.

    ****

    We got ready for Khalid¡¯s arrival and since this would be the first meeting, we both wanted things to be perfect. The sound that came from the doorbell announced the arrival of Khalid.

    ¡°I¡¯ll get it.¡± Ava called to me as she went to open the door while I strode down the stairs. Smiling, She ushered Khalid who came straight to hug me and when his mother wanted to follow him, she stopped her.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry but you can¡¯te in.¡± She said softly but I could tell that Aisha took it the wrong way and tried to pick up a fight with her. I¡¯d wanted to go defend her but I stopped.

    ¡°If you¡¯re going to pick up a fight with me in my house and in front of your own son then I suggest you leave.¡± She said calmly and I smiled proudly.

    She¡¯s really changed and is standing up against Aisha on her own. I watched as Aisha left angrily and Ava closed the door behind her.

    We asked what Khalid wanted and he said he wanted to go to his favorite Ice cream parlor. Ava and I went with him and I was stunned at how good she was with him.

    Khalid also adores her and does anything she suggests, he values her opinion and it was surprising because they basically just met. Smiling, I knew that we¡¯re off to a good beginning.

    Khalid made Ava order his ice cream and she was able to guess his favorite vor. They both walked around the parlor hand in hand while Ava did all the ordering of the junk food.

    ¡°You know, I watch you both have fun and I kinda feel left out.¡± I started and Avaughed as we got into the car. Khalid had begged for Ava to sit with him in the back.

    ¡°Hey! You¡¯re gradually stealing my wife from me.¡± I frowned and they bothughed as they got in. We¡¯d decided to go for a drive but Khalid slept off even before we started the drive.

    Smiling, I looked at the rear view mirror to see Khalid peacefully sleeping on Ava¡¯sp, she was also tired and yawned almost through the drive.

    She wouldn¡¯t stop stroking his hair lightly and the sight was just so beautiful that I didn¡¯t know when a smile escaped my lip.

    Getting home, I carried Khalid and called for his mom toe pick him up. Aisha arrived some minutester and left with Khalid.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    We¡¯d decided to have a little fun of our own and I waited as Ava went to change. She walked down the stairs and I just couldn¡¯t help but imagine her walking down the aisle.

    She¡¯s angelic, she looked more delicate and ethereal than ever, moving like a model. Her beauty was exquisite and her smile was one that I would do anything to see again.

    ¡°You¡¯re gorgeous.¡± Iplimented as I kissed her and we both went out for the dinner I¡¯d made reservations for.

    ¡°Thank you so much for your help with Khalid, I don¡¯t know what I would¡¯ve done without you.¡± I started and she only brushed me off as she reminded me of when she said she would be with me every step of the way.

    ¡°Do you have a secret child somewhere? Because you know just how well to take care of him, he listens to you and it¡¯s just amazing.¡± I continued and sheughed.

    ¡°I¡¯ve always loved kids and well, they love me too and that¡¯s why the feeling was natural.¡± She answered and I nodded.

    She did really well. Putting Khalid¡¯s conversation aside, we both ate our food silently and drank our wine and soon we were done.

    ¡°You really should let me apologize for leaving,¡± she started, ¡°I got really scared and with no knowledge what to do, I thought running away was the answer. I¡¯m really sorry.¡± She apologized.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, that was all in the past now and the most important thing right now is the fact that you¡¯re here and would never leave me again.¡± I responded and she nodded with a smile.

    ¡°You¡¯re right, it¡¯s all in the past and I¡¯m making a promise once again to never leave you again.¡± She smiled as she took my hand and we kissed before going back home.

    Getting home, we took our shower together and both retired to bed and had the best sex of our lives in a long time.

    I really missed her.

 Chapter 120

    Mason¡¯s POV

    The second meeting with Khalid, we¡¯d agreed to take him to the amusement park and I could tell that he was so excited because he wouldn¡¯t stop talking on the drive there.

    It was pleasant especially since it was an outing with my friends and their own kids too. I introduced Khalid to them and it didn¡¯t take long for the children to get along.

    The children found their way out of our grasp even though they were still in sight and we the adults decided to have a pic and watch the kids have fun.

    We couldn¡¯t stop talking andughing, it was fun especially since Rylie, like she is, wouldn¡¯t stop bringing up embarrassing childhood memories of me.

    It felt like the way it was when I first introduced Ava to them and how well we¡¯d all got along, taking a nce at Ava who was eating her strawberry so seductively that it sent the worst signal it could¡¯ve at the park to my dick.

    ¡°You¡¯re doing this on purpose right?¡± I whispered into her ear as I pulled her closer to me and she looked at me like she was oblivious to what I meant.

    Looking around and sure no one was staring at us, I guided her hand down to my dick and she gasped, ¡°eat the strawberry like that one more time and we¡¯ll be fucking in front of, I don¡¯t know, hundreds of people and kids.¡± I threatened.

    She let out a roaringughter before kissing me and then my phone buzzed, I checked to see who it was and I rolled my eyes when I saw Aisha¡¯s name boldly written on the screen.

    Excusing myself, I went to pick up the call and she told me that she wanted toe pick Khalid up since they were both going for an important meeting of some sort.

    I hated having to cut the kid¡¯s fun short but I patiently exined to him why I had to do that and promised toe pick him up next time so we can have the fun of our lives.

    It didn¡¯t take long for Aisha to show up and pick Khalid up, it broke my heart to hear the kid cry so much but he calmed down when I offered to buy him ice cream.

    Adoring Khalid came easy to me even though I¡¯d thought it would be difficult. I¡¯ve seen Ava have an internal battle with herself about liking Khalid but she just couldn¡¯t help it.

    The kid is a fluff ball and we¡¯ve fallen in love with him after just meeting him twice.

    I¡¯d offered Ava a job and I was d when she agreed to be my assistant so we went to work together and came back home together.

    ¡°We can¡¯t bete! This is an important meeting.¡± Ava called out to me and quickly, my feet padded down the stairs as I kissed her and soon we were at the office.

    I was unable to take my eyes off her, she stood gracefully as she disyed her idea on the projector and soon began to pitch it.

    Her wrists were delicate, her fingers strong and slim as she controlled the remote and wouldn¡¯t stop talking. She had a chin of iron determination.

    ¡°But then, how do we know it works since it¡¯s not in the market yet, do we just invest in something we have no idea about?¡± One of the investors asked and Avaughed.

    ¡°If it hasn¡¯t been tested I wouldn¡¯t be pitching it,¡± she responded calmly as she handed a file that went round the table.

    ¡°The sess rate of this is 98. 9% now, who wouldn¡¯t want to invest? It¡¯s a risk but with a sess rate as high as this? It¡¯s a risk worth taking.¡± She finished.

    The meeting room fell silent for a while before a thunderous p filled the sky and I could tell that they were impressed with what she¡¯d just pitched.

    ¡°Where did you manage to find such a smart, intelligent, remarkable assistant?¡± One of them asked as he turned to me, ¡°we might be lending her some time.¡± Heughed.

    Hurriedly, we signed the contract and shook hands before they left.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Congrattions!¡± Ava shrieked and I lifted her off the ground and spun her around. This was a sess because of her.

    cing her down, I smooched her face with lots of kisses and couldn¡¯t stop thanking her for how well she did.

    ¡°Whatever you want, name it.¡± I cooed happily and my phone rang and I checked to see it was Aisha.

    Picking the call up while Ava picked up the rest of her files, Aisha told me toe pick Khalid up since he wouldn¡¯t stop crying that he wanted to see me.

    ¡°Go pick him up and we can all go to the cinema and see a movie together.¡± Ava suggested and I agreed as I picked my car keys.

    ¡°Leave early please, as soon as you drop those files.¡± I told her as I kissed her before leaving for the apartment I got for Aisha.

    ¡°Hello!¡± I announced as I got in to see the door widely opened. It wasn¡¯t surprising but I was expecting Khalid to be out by now.

    To my surprise, Aisha was the one who¡¯d weed me, she was wrapped in a really short towel and her hair wrapped up in a towel too.

    ¡°You¡¯re here.¡± She started like I didn¡¯t know that I was here. Biting lower lip, she pulled the towel and stood naked in front of me. I watched as she made her way to me and tried to loosen my belt.

    Angrily, I smacked her hand away before pushing her slightly, ¡°the next time you try something as stupid as this, I¡¯ll make sure that I have you put behind bars.¡± I threatened and she was taken aback.

    Shrugging, she picked up her towel and wrapped it around her. I¡¯d turned to leave when Khalid got home from school and was happy to see me.

    Taking him with me, I didn¡¯t let him change into proper clothes before driving out of his mother¡¯s building.

    What was she thinking? That I pounce on her hungrily?

 Chapter 121

    Ava¡¯s POV

    We all got ready and went to the Cinema. I noticed Mason¡¯s countenance had changed from the moment he got back home with Khalid but I didn¡¯t want to pester him into talking to me.

    Throughout the movie, his expression never changed and I couldn¡¯t help but be worried about him and why he¡¯s been so moody.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Are you okay?¡± I asked but he only kissed me and told me that he was fine which I know was a lie because he was really happy up until he went to pick Khalid up from the apartment.

    Without bothering him, I stopped asking if he was alright Incase it was something personal and he didn¡¯t want to talk to me about it.

    But a tiny part of me told me it was something about Aisha and not wanting to ruin the night I decided not to say anything about it anymore.

    The drive home was also unusually silent and I had no idea what to do to get him to cheer up other than to let him figure things out and talk to me so I could help.

    Aisha had called Mason already to tell him that she¡¯d soon being to pick Khalid up and we prepped the boy to get ready to leave.

    ¡°When are you going to get married to my mommy, daddy?¡± Khalid asked and the question felt like a blow to me as Mason and I shared an awkward look.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to ever be away from you anymore.¡± He added and it just felt wrong for me to be there but I couldn¡¯t leave also.

    My heart couldn¡¯t take the fact that Khalid was asking his father to get married to his mom while I¡¯m standing right there even though I knew that it was just an innocent question.

    I coughed lightly and Mason cleared his throat before crouching in front of the little boy. Everything felt awkward at that moment and the atmosphere soon began to get stuffy.

    ¡°Look, Khalid,¡± he started, ¡°your mom is great and I¡¯m sure anyone who meets her would be so lucky to have her but that person is just not me.¡± He exined.

    ¡°Why?¡± Khalid further asked and I just wanted them to stop talking about Aisha in front of me. I felt my blood boil in anger and I swallowed as I closed my eyes and tried not to go crazy.

    ¡°Because I love someone else and would really love to spend the rest of my life with her.¡± He answered as he stared at me and my heart soared.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    I could feel the butterflies in my stomach grow and my heart fluttered at the response Mason had just given to his son.

    ¡°Is that okay? You know, for the both of you to kiss and get married since you¡¯re both brothers and sisters?¡± He asked again and my eyes widened.

    How did he know about all of this?

    ¡°Who told you that?¡± I asked and it was now my turn to crouch in front of the child. My anger that had subsided before soared again and I just wanted to know how he knew that Mason and I are supposed to be siblings.

    ¡°My mommy told me.¡± He shrugged and at that point all I wanted to tell him was that his mom says a lot of rubbish but I also didn¡¯t want to do that.

    Slowly, I stood up and left Mason to answer his question, I was eager to know how he would handle it. What his answer would be even though I knew how maturely he¡¯ll handle it.

    ¡°Look, Ava and I are not real siblings so yes, it¡¯s okay for us to kiss and get married.¡± He exined to him and he¡¯d wanted to exin further but the door opened and Aisha came in.

    Mason angrily left the sitting room, leaving me alone with Aisha and her son which was unusual because he usually stayed with me whenever she came to pick him up.

    Khalid left and I made my way to the room where Mason seemed to be busy on hisptop but I closed it so he would concentrate on me.

    ¡°Tell me what happened between you and Aisha because I¡¯m sure as hell that something did happen and I¡¯m not crazy.¡± I said firmly and he sighed before standing to face me properly.

    ¡°Okay, fine. I went there to pick up Khalid and she came on to me.¡± He exined everything to me from when she stood naked in front of him and even tried to seduce him.

    ¡°I love you and I¡¯ll never do that to you, Okay?¡± He assured me as he stared at me and I knew he was trying to know if I was mad at him or not.

    I wanted to get mad at him for keeping it away from me for a while and only telling me because I insisted but I decided not to, I instead wanted to get his mind off it.

    ¡°I know.¡± I sighed as I walked closer to him to kiss him and we both had no idea how it happened but the kiss grew even more intense like we both missed each other.

    Mason wasted no time in pulling my clothes off as he hungrily sucked on my boobs as always and pulled me closer to him so that I could feel his cock and I grind on it.

    I¡¯d already taken off his shirt and loosened his zipper so it was easy to get in. cing my cold fingers on his nipples, he moaned softly and I could tell that he loved it and the way I wed at his back.

    Finally breaking the kiss, I made my way with my tongue down his neck to his chest, I stopped at his nipple and started sucking on it like a baby. I loved the way he threw his head back and moaned at the way I stroked his dick lightly and sucked on his nipples.

    Pulling me up, Mason ced me on the table as he roughly pushed everything on it to the floor. Heid me down on the table as he rammed his hard cock in my already wet and anticipating pussy.

    He pulled me down so I could take his entire size and I couldn¡¯t help but let out a really loud moan as he pounded into me roughly just the way I liked it.

    The table wasn¡¯t reallyfortable so we moved to the bed and I decided to ride him, pouncing on his dick as fast and hard as I could.

    A needy moan filled the room and soon, Mason flipped me over as he ced my legs on his shoulders while still fucking me hard but also being gentle with me.

    Soon, we both almost ran out of breath as he bursted his loads inside me and copsed on me before moving to the other side.

    Laying down, we tried to catch our breath beforeughing at each other like something was funny.

    The sex seemed to be getting even more intense anytime we had it.

 Chapter 122

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Ava and I are back to the way we used to be with each other before and things between us were back to the way it was but better. Everything seemed smoother with Ava and Khalid by my side.

    Khalid was such a nicepany that anytime it was my turn to have him I wouldn¡¯t be able to wait and the same thing goes for Ava too. She showers him with love just like she¡¯s his mother and he soon bes attached to her.

    It was my turn to have Khalid for the evening and we¡¯d all decided to have a nice evening out. We were at the ice cream parlor and he¡¯d asked me to ce an order for his favorite ice cream which I did.

    ¡°Here,¡± I crouched in front of him as I handed him the ice cream, ¡°you know what I think would go well with that ice cream?¡± I asked and Khalid shook his head.

    His eyes were piercing into mine and I smiled as I pulled him closer to me and whispered into his ear like it was some sort of secret.

    ¡°A nice cookie.¡± Iughed and he joined in. I was about to stand up when he pulled me back down. The child is surprisingly strong.

    ¡°I love you.¡± He blurted out innocently and I could swear that the moment I heard those words leave his mouth my heart skipped a beat.

    I don¡¯t know why but it seemed like I¡¯ve been waiting for years for him to tell me that and he finally did. My heart fluttered and I soon started feeling teary which was also unusual for me.

    Confused with no idea what to do, I shared a look with Ava who just smiled at me and nodded as if trying to motivate me even more.

    Kneeling, I pulled him closer to me and hugged him tighter than I ever did. I never wanted to let go as I pulled him away from me and stared at the boy that looked exactly like me.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    ¡°And I love you too, so much.¡± I snuggled before hugging him again.

    It was at that moment that I made a promise to myself that no matter what happens I will try my best to be the best dad to Khalid.

    ¡°And you, you¡¯re my new best friend and I love you so much too.¡± He turned to Ava who was also crouching in front of him and kissed her cheeks before running off.

    I could see Ava melt as her eyes followed Khalid and soon we both followed Khalid to where he was going only to see him hanging around with a man in an ice cream costume.

    Ava took the picture of the ice cream man like Khalid calls him and Khalid too. We found someone passing by and we asked him to take a picture of the three of us with the man, which he did.

    I was so grateful to be able to form such a beautiful bond with the three important people in my life right now and the memories were beautiful too.

    The evening went by quicker than any of us had wanted it to and soon we were on our way back to drop Khalid off at Aisha¡¯s ce.

    ¡°I want a costume like that ice cream man¡¯s own. It¡¯s so beautiful and lots of people would want to take pictures with me.¡± Khalid started and Avaughed heartily.

    All she seemed to feel since we patched things up was happiness and I was d that my son and I were a part of her happiness.

    ¡°Well, Khalid, that is for grownups and if you get it right now you wouldn¡¯t fit into it properly.¡± She answered and I agreed with her immediately.

    ¡°Well then when I grow up I want to be an ice cream man.¡± He blurted and I almost choked on my own spit as Iughed because I knew Khalid was smart but I wasn¡¯t expecting him to want to be an ice cream man.

    ¡°No you don¡¯t want to be that.¡± I muttered under my breath but I was sure that Ava heard because of the way she stared at me.

    ¡°You can be anything you want to be, Khalid,¡± Ava assured him and he smiled, ¡°but we¡¯ll have to wait till you¡¯re older so we can have this conversation again.¡± She added and he agreed, I had no idea when I bursted outughing.

    ¡°What?¡± I shot when Ava wouldn¡¯t stop staring at me, ¡°the boy wants to be an ice cream man, we should probably just let him.¡± Iughed and after much trial to notugh. Ava failed and soon we got to Aisha¡¯s apartment.

    We said our goodbyes and watched as Aisha walked him into the house before we drove off.

    AISHA¡¯S POV

    Things were going good and I was getting more than enough money for child support from Mason that wasn¡¯t enough.

    I wanted more and I won¡¯t stop until I¡¯ve gotten it, ¡°Ava is now my new best friend.¡± Khalid¡¯s voice jolted me out of my thoughts and my blood boiled.

    What has that bitch fed my son?

    I could see the likeness Khalid had for Ava and if I don¡¯t sabotage that it would ruin my ns. Smiling to myself, I called Khalid closer.

    ¡°Ava is a horrible person and she wants your daddy for herself. She wants to take your daddy away from you now would you let that?¡± I asked him and the way he shook his head made me let out a proud smile.

    I could see the adoration for Ava slowly fade away into hatred and for the first time in years I was d that Khalid was gullible.

    I still need to get Mason away from Ava. He¡¯s mine and is supposed to remain mine forever and I don¡¯t care how long it¡¯ll take me, I¡¯ll make sure I have Mason all to myself.

 Chapter 123

    Mason¡¯s POV

    ¡°Is it me or did you notice that Khalid is pulling away from me gradually, ever since we dropped him off back home that evening?¡± Ava¡¯s voice made me lift my head up and I could hear the worry in her voice.

    I¡¯d be lying if I said I hadn¡¯t noticed it but I only thought it was a phase and that moment when kids don¡¯t really want to talk to anyone.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked as I set my ss of water down on the bedside table and she groaned before sitting beside me.

    ¡°He¡¯s changed and it seemed like I¡¯d done something to offend him and now that I think about it, I didn¡¯t do anything. It¡¯s like he doesn¡¯t want me around him anymore.¡± She exined and I could tell that she was on the verge of tears because of the way her voice broke.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure it¡¯s just a kids thing but I¡¯ll ask him as soon as we pick him up today, please don¡¯t think about it too much.¡± I smiled as I assured her and she leaned in to kiss me before walking to the bathroom.

    We both got ready to go pick Khalid up and when Ava had tried to hug him he refused to even touch her and just walked past her.

    Staring at Aisha, I saw a smirk y out on her face and although I knew how evil she seemed, I silently prayed that she had nothing to do with it.

    We all went to the park and Ava asked us to carry on and have fun without her, I¡¯d asked her why and she told me she wouldn¡¯t stay where Khalid doesn¡¯t want her.

    My heart broke and I was determined to know what the reason for Khalid¡¯s detachment from Ava is. We yed together and I decided to ask.

    ¡°Khalid?¡± I called, ¡°did Ava do something to you? Why don¡¯t you want to y with her?¡± I asked and he looked even more angry at the question.

    ¡°Because she wants to take you away from me.¡± He answered quietly and my eyes almost popped out of their sockets.

    ¡°And who told you that?¡± I asked with a raised eyebrow.

    ¡°My mommy.¡± He answered and I closed my eyes shut in anger as I clenched my fist. My hunch was right and she had something to do with this.

    ¡°Look, your mother, she¡¯s lying to you. Ava would never take me away from you like your mother imed.¡± I reassured Khalid who was already crying.

    ¡°Now, you have to apologize to Ava.¡± I told him and he nodded as I took his hand. Turning, we both were shocked when we saw Ava standing behind us and I could tell that she¡¯s been there for a while.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Khalid apologized and I smiled when Ava brushed him off and hugged him tightly as she smooched his face with kisses and told him that he was precious.

    Leaving Khalid with Ava, I angrily walked away from them and when I was sure I was where they wouldn¡¯t listen to my conversation. I called Aisha.

    ¡°Look who finally decides to call on his own.¡± Her voice came from the other end of the phone and my teeth gritted against each other.

    ¡°Listen here, the next time you spew trash about me and Ava to my son, I¡¯ll make sure you regret it.¡± I warned and herughter got me even angrier.

    ¡°I will tell my son whatever I want!¡± She retorted as she emphasized on the ¡®My.¡¯

    ¡°Let¡¯s see if you can, tell him some stupid shit again and watch how I stop giving you money for child support because this is just you pushing it!¡± I yelled.

    I had no idea what to do anymore because I know how stubborn and daring Aisha can be. I¡¯d thought threatening to stop paying for child support would have some effect on her but she onlyughed and told me she wasn¡¯t bothered about the money.

    ¡°You think because you have a lot of it then you can threaten me with it?¡± She asked amidstughter before telling me that I couldn¡¯t do anything to her.

    ¡°Listen, keep to yourself and you better be careful because acting like this doesn¡¯t make you anything else but a desperate bitch.¡± I yelled before cautioning myself.

    She gets on myst nerve and I had no idea how long I can hold on for before losing it on her because of how angry she makes me. She makes me want to lose my mind.

    ¡°You should be the one to be careful because I can take him away from you whenever I want to,¡± she threatened, ¡°or yet, I can make it known to the public that you fuck your own sister.¡± She added.

    Is she really trying to threaten me right now?

    Angrily, I hung the call up on her and tried to calm myself down before walking back to where I¡¯d left Ava and Khalid.

    On getting there, I found them ying and decided to join them in having their fun without talking about what I¡¯d gone outside to do.

    I couldn¡¯t help but admire how good Ava was with Khalid and I smiled to myself as I thought about the decision to always have her close to me.

    That decision isn¡¯t one I regret. Holding her waist, I made sure she fell on my chest before telling her that I love her and the pinkness of her cheeks as she blushed caused me to smile.

    ¡°I love you too.¡± She responded and we kissed as we got back to what we were doing. We all went back home exhausted and tucking Khalid into his own bed, we went to sleep.

    I exined everything to her and even I could tell that I was tired of all of Aisha¡¯s stunts, ¡°she has a mind of her own.¡± I sighed and Ava patted my back.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯ll all be settled soon.¡± She assured me before kissing me.

 Chapter 124

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Time passed quickly and with each day that passed, I grew even more fond of Khalid even though I didn¡¯t want to but I couldn¡¯t help it and now I¡¯ve grown to love the child so much.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    It¡¯s unbelievable that I once thought I would never like him, at some point I didn¡¯t want to be anywhere around him but I¡¯m d that I didn¡¯t drag him into all of this mess.

    When Khalid called me his best friend was the most beautiful moment and I wouldn¡¯t stop thinking about it for days. A lot of things have happened in our lives these past weeks.

    Mason was going to be workingte so we both decided that I was going to pick Khalid up since it was Mason¡¯s turn to have him.

    I got into the apartment and the wee I got from Aisha wasn¡¯t one that I¡¯m surprised about, I knew she never liked me especially after her attempt to get Khalid to dislike me.

    ¡°Look who it is.¡± She said as she came to stand in front of me with her arms akimbo.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have time for this, where is he?¡± I asked, rolling my eyes and ignoring her obvious attempt to start a fight.

    I came here for just one thing and that¡¯s to pick up Khalid and thest thing I would do is let him see me get into a fight with his mother.

    ¡°You can never have enough time for this when all you¡¯re doing is fucking your stepbrother,¡± she blurted out and I could feel my blood boil in anger but I only smirked.

    ¡°You¡¯re standing in the way of my blessing, stay away or I¡¯ll make you.¡± She added and I had no idea when I bursted outughing.

    ¡°Was that supposed to be a threat?¡± I asked amidstughter before stopping abruptly, ¡°look, stop being delusional. That¡¯ll really help.¡± I added as I looked around for Khalid.

    ¡°Well you should stop being disgusting by being with Mason.¡± She retorted but I only ignored her when I saw Khalid enter the sitting room.

    Fussing over Khalid, I asked him about a lot of things before telling him that we could get ice cream and he was so excited.

    Taking his hand, I led him out of the apartment with a smile and I had no idea why but I felt a sense of satisfaction when I saw the look on Aisha¡¯s face.

    She¡¯d disagreed to me picking Khalid up at first but she had to concur when Mason called and sternly warned her not to start an unnecessary drama.

    The week went by quickly and we already had Khalid for a week and I was supposed to return him to his mother. I couldn¡¯t help but overhear Aisha on a phone call when I dropped Khalid off.

    ¡°I¡¯m almost done and it¡¯s going as nned, don¡¯t worry. The n would work.¡± She assured whoever she was talking to and shrugging since I had no idea what that meant, I walked away.

    *****

    It¡¯s been a whole week and Mason, Khalid and I were ying around in the living room when we heard a knock on the door.

    Going to open it, my mouth dropped open when I saw Danny and my mother. Neither of us had any idea that they wereing and when I asked they¡¯d said they wanted to surprise us.

    ¡°You don¡¯t seem excited to us,¡± Danny pointed out and Iughed nervously not knowing what to say when they brushed past me and walked in.

    The shock on Danny¡¯s face when he saw Khalid was evident and I knew that it wouldn¡¯t be good. Angrily, he asked whose child that was and Mason had tried to exin to him.

    ¡°He¡¯s my son¡­¡± Mason was still talking when a thunderous sound filled the room and it took me a while to realize that Danny had just pped Mason.

    ¡°Why would you do that?!¡± I yelled as I stood in front of Danny and when my mum raised an eyebrow, I apologized and told them that my mum and I would give them a little bit of time.

    Taking Khalid who was shocked to see his father get pped by his hand, we walked to the kitchen leaving Mason and his father there.

    ¡°So this is the reason you left the city and went back to LA, right?¡± My mother asked and I looked at Khalid before staring back at my mum, ¡°be honest.¡± She added and I nodded.

    I exined everything to my mother who only listened keenly and looked really proud of me as she hugged me tightly.

    ¡°I¡¯m really proud of you, Ava. You really are a strong woman.¡± She smiled and I smiled back as I introduced her to Khalid who liked her almost immediately.

    The both of them got close at once and wouldn¡¯t stop talking to each other. Soon, my mom and I started making dinner and we set the table as we called for the men to join us.

    Danny and Mason had finished talking and the air was more peaceful than it was when our parents first got here and I was grateful at how understanding they are.

    We talked and caught up on a lot of things during dinner, Danny asked about work and after a while we finished eating.

    ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you.¡± Dannymented as he hugged me, I smiled and apologized for yelling at him which he only brushed off and told me not to worry.

    ¡°We¡¯re spending the night in a hotel. We already booked a room and we should leave soon.¡± Danny announced.

    Mason went to him and they both stood together talking for a while until we heard a car honk outside and I just knew that it would be Aisha.

    Taking Khalid by his hand, I walked him to meet his mother and they left. Not long after, Danny and my mom left too.

 Chapter 125

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Because of our parents arrival and theck of time to really talk to Mason I was unable to tell him everything I¡¯d heard Aisha say on the call with that stranger the day I went to drop Khalid off.

    Shrugging the feeling that it might have something to do with Mason off, I decided not to tell him and it didn¡¯t take long for us to retire to bed.

    The night went by and I could tell that Mason was tired from having a lot to deal with at work so I just let him sleep peacefully since we both have to be up early in the morning and start working on the new contract we just got.

    ****

    The ring sound that came from the bedside rm jolted me out of my sleep and I knew that we had to leave home early but I had no idea that Mason needed to leave that early.

    My phone chimed and I smiled when I saw his text telling me toe to work when I¡¯ve gotten the rest I needed. Getting ready for work, my phone rang and I was surprised to see Nicole¡¯s name boldly written on the screen.

    She barely has enough time to talk, especially early in the morning. Shrugging, I answered the call and she seemed happy to hear my voice.

    ¡°How¡¯s things going between you and Mason by the way?¡± She asked and I took my time as I exined it all to her.

    I told her about how Mason wasn¡¯t mad at me for leaving and told her all she needed to know about Khalid and how I¡¯ve grown to love him so much.

    ¡°He¡¯s so precious and now I just want to have my own baby.¡± I cooed into the phone and Nicole bursted outughing.

    Nicole had enough time in her hand since she told me that she had the day off and so we talked about a lot of things that we might have missed out on in each other¡¯s lives.

    ¡°Well, the feeling of being a mother is a really beautiful one and it¡¯s overwhelming, you could be sad, happy, offended and feel many things as a mother. Plus, it involves a whole lot of adequate nning before having a child.¡±

    Nicole¡¯s exnation jolted me out of my thoughts and I smiled as I thanked her.

    ¡°You know, he actually said something about getting married to me but I don¡¯t want to get my hopes up and say anything yet until he pops the question.¡± I shrieked as I exined to her and sheughed.

    ¡°What about the mother of the boy? Does she have a problem?¡± She asked and I sighed before exining everything about Aisha to her and how she probably hates me now for being close to her son.

    ¡°She¡¯s a bitch, I hate her.¡± She responded in her disgusted voice and I knew at that moment that she¡¯d already developed a hatred for Aisha.

    ¡°Also, before I forget, I overheard her talking to someone and telling them that her n would work out or something like that.¡± I told her what I¡¯d heard Aisha say the other day I was there.

    ¡°You should really be careful around her, people like her are cruel and dangerous.¡± She warned and I agreed with her. We spoke for a while before ending the call because I needed to leave for the office.

    MASON¡¯S POV

    I had to leave the house early because of the meeting I had with the board of directors. The meeting was going smoothly until I had to show them my n.

    ¡°You should all check this out and let me know what you think, how we can improve and things you think can be added.¡± I finished as I pulled out the sh drive that Ava had prepared for the meeting.

    Inserting the sh drive into myptop as I waited for the pictures to show up but nothing did. Clicking and trying to fix it in a way that I thought I would be able to, nothing still changed and it remained the same, the projector was nk.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for the inconvenience guys, there seems to be a slight problem with the projector.¡± I apologized as I kept clicking but nothing was working.

    The meeting room soon filled up with the murmurs of the board of directors and I was confused. I had no idea what was going on.

    ¡°Parker!¡± I called and he showed up at once, pulling him away from the board, ¡°the drive is empty and I have no idea why. Get Ava.¡± I murmured and with a nod, he left the meeting room.

    ¡°It¡¯ll be fixed soon and before then,¡± I started as I heaved out a heavy sigh, ¡°check this out.¡± I finished as I passed around the prints and they shared it amongst themselves.

    ¡°What do you think?¡± I asked and one of the directors brought up a suggestion of going through with the n but making it unique.

    ¡°I actually did think about that but do you have any idea what touch can be added to it?¡± I asked and the directors soon forgot about the projector problem as we talked about the n.

    After a while, Ava came in and I was relieved to see her, raising an eyebrow at her, I whispered to her to sit close to me.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Parker had to practically drag me out of the meeting I was in.¡± She whispered and I nodded.

    ¡°The drive,¡± I started, ¡°it¡¯s empty and I couldn¡¯t get anything on the projector.¡± I continued in a whisper and I watched as the confused look on her face grew deeper.

    ¡°I really made the blueprint and I made sure that it was saved on the drive, I don¡¯t¡­¡± she exined, confused and her voice a little bit shaky.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    She was scared that something might have gone wrong, ¡°I know you did.¡± I assured her in a whisper and she calmed down as her face lit up like she just realized something.

    ¡°I have an idea.¡±

 Chapter 126

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Before I could ask what her idea was, Ava stood and I watched as she made her way to the front. Raising an eyebrow, I adjusted in my seat and watched as she bowed respectfully and introduced herself.

    ¡°I know how much you all want to see the n on the big screen bute on, who are we kidding?¡± She asked and I widened my eyes in shock but wanted her to continue.

    ¡°You have the n in front of you already, showing it on the big screen would be extra and also boring,¡± she continued as the board members murmured between themselves but she doesn¡¯t seem to care about that.

    Everyone stared at her confusingly and Ava sighed as she told them she would exin bits by bits.

    ¡°Okay, look,¡± she started as she picked up a marker and asked that I turn the projector off so she could exin with bars and charts instead.

    ¡°I¡¯ll show and exin everything to you this way.¡± She continued as she turned to look at me and I could see that she was nervous but she seemed to have it all under control.

    Ava drew the charts on the board and exined like a teacher would to their students. The board members looked at her weirdly and some would even ask questions that couldn¡¯t be answered using graphs but Ava took us all by surprise.

    Although, her n was working and the meeting had gone from being boring to being interactive and fun because even I was already enjoying it.

    The board members were already getting engrossed in the presentation but some of them still looked dissatisfied because they were already used to staring at the n on the projector.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to do all these, we can just wait a while and let Parker get the files.¡± I managed to tell her but she only shook her head.

    ¡°They waited long enough already and we can¡¯t keep them waiting anymore. I¡¯ve studied this method and it works, just trust me.¡± She whispered to me before going back to her presentation.

    Listening to her exin the past year sales and how our new n would affect the sales and help ourpany grow even more.

    I watched the board members¡¯ interest grow and they soon started getting interested in all Ava had to say. None of them interrupted her process as they listened keenly.

    Impressed and smiling to myself, I was floored by how she¡¯d presented everything and how she took control of the meeting room.

    The hall that was once filled with dissatisfied board members that wouldn¡¯t even listen to what I had to say because the file went missing soon filled with interactive members.

    They asked lots of questions and Ava answered it all perfectly, leaving no room for doubts and as I stared at her I could feel the love I have for her increase and all I wanted to do at that moment was kiss her but I couldn¡¯t.

    The meeting was soon over and Ava earned a round of apuse from the board members before they agreed that we go on with the n as they trusted me and my assistant to handle it well.

    ¡°Thank you, Thank you so much. You have no idea how scared I was that this wouldn¡¯t go well.¡± I grinned as I lifted her off her feet and spun her around before smothering her face with kisses.

    ¡°You really did good out there, how did you know all that?¡± I asked, still impressed with her and the presentation.

    ¡°Well, something simr to this happened at my former ce of work and my boss was able to use this method to get us, I studied it and figured it would be of good use now.¡± She exined and I nodded before kissing her again.

    ¡°Thank you so much, really.¡± I repeated and Ava smiled as she told me that my sess was also her sess and I could feel my heart go even higher than it already was.

    ¡°And I¡¯ll do anything for you.¡± She finished as she pulled me closer to her again as she kissed me.

    ¡°After work, we will both go out for dinner so we can celebrate.¡± I smiled and she nodded happily as she agreed with me.

    These past weeks, we haven¡¯t gotten enough time to go out alone since Khalid was always around so it would be nice for it to be just us.

    I¡¯d already made reservations at one of the most expensive restaurants in town and after work, I drove Ava down there.

    Getting in there, it felt as though everyone was around for us because the stare got intense as we entered and I instinctively held Ava by her waist.

    ¡°So anyone looking at you would know you¡¯re mine.¡± I whispered and she blushed as we made our way to our seats.

    The waiter came and I ordered but Ava seemed to need more time, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I just haven¡¯t taken a good look at the menu.¡± She apologized.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I understand if you need more time.¡± The waiter replied and I swear that I could hear a hint of flirting in his voice.

    ¡°I¡¯ll have the side sd.¡± She smiled as she handed the menu back to him.

    ¡°And what would that be on the side of, prettydy?¡± He asked and the redness of Ava¡¯s cheeks sent cold chills down my spine.

    ¡°Okay, look, you stay here one minute longer and I will have you fired. You don¡¯t want that, do you?¡± I threatened and he left at once.

    We finished eating and I took her to the back garden so we could sit and watch the stars together. Holding her face gently, I guided her lips to mine and kissed her.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    One kiss always left me yearning for more and pulling her closer to me so that she was sitting on myp, my fingers found their way under her dress and the sound of her hushed moan made me go crazy as we made out.

 Chapter 127

    Aisha¡¯s POV

    Getting ready for my meeting with someone that¡¯s supposed to help me, I picked up the briefcase that I¡¯d prepared already and made my way to the address sent.

    I got to the cafe and I could already tell who I was going to see because they all dressed like that. I made my way to the table where the man with the face cap, a ck nose mask and sunshades was sitting.

    ¡°Are you the one that called me?¡± He asked and I nodded as I slid Ava¡¯s picture to him. I don¡¯t have enough time for formality so I suggested we go down to business.

    ¡°The dough?¡± He asked and sighing, I picked up the briefcase and ced it on the table. Putting my hand on my chin, I watched as he opened it and smiled in satisfaction.

    I knew I couldn¡¯t afford that much money so I was partly grateful to Mason for paying child support because now I would use the money to get rid of Ava for good.

    Mason is mine and I¡¯m supposed to be the one in his life enjoying all of these benefits and not some step sister. I knew the risk I took that night when I drugged and slept with him.

    I didn¡¯t do all that just to lose him to his bitchy step sister and if this n doesn¡¯t work out I already have a n B in ce.

    I was going to release the news to the press and make sure that I tarnish his image enough so that Ava and him would be unable to be together.

    ¡°What do you want us to do to them?¡± The man¡¯s voice put a halt to my thoughts and I thought I couldn¡¯t hear right when I heard him say ¡®them¡¯.

    ¡°Them?¡± I asked and he slid the picture back to me, it was Ava and Mason that were in the picture and I had no idea.

    I must¡¯ve been too excited to even check the picture properly.

    ¡°No, leave the man. It¡¯s only the girl, I want her out of my way but don¡¯t get ahead of yourself until I give the orders.¡± I exined and he nodded.

    ¡°For now, you¡¯re just going to kidnap and keep her hostage somewhere. I want to meet her in that state.¡± I smiled and the man nodded again.

    Scribbling Ava¡¯s office address on a piece of paper, I slid it to the man who went through it for a while before putting it in his pocket.

    ¡°She gets off work by 5:30 PM and that¡¯s when you¡¯ll be able to get her, also, you do your homework too. Spy on her and be sure she¡¯s alone before you make a move.¡± I started exining.

    ¡°You don¡¯t tell me how to do my job.¡± He corrected and I closed my mouth at once, ¡°now what do you want us to do with her?¡± He asked again.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Keep her hostage till I ask you to release her and if I also wish, I could ask you to kill her and let her leave what¡¯s mine alone for good.¡± I answered.

    ¡°Killing her would cost you some extra dough because this right here is only for the trouble we¡¯d go through kidnapping her.¡± He responded and I nodded in understanding.

    I knew doing a job like this would cost me a lot of money but fortunately I¡¯ve been saving up for it for a while now and I know I¡¯d be able to handle it.

    I would do anything, go to any length to get Ava out of his life forever.

    ¡°I know that, you just do your job.¡± I replied and he nodded as he picked the briefcase and left the cafe. After a while, I walked out of the cafe too to go pick up Khalid from school.

    Smiling at the progress I¡¯d made, I drove off to Khalid school and my blood boiled inside me when I saw him crying.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, baby?¡± I asked and he exined to me how some of his ssmates were bullying him for not having a father and I got angry at Ava all over again.

    If she hadn¡¯t showed up back then all this wouldn¡¯t have happened, my son wouldn¡¯t have been out here crying because some bunch of stupid kids told him he had no father.

    ¡°Look here baby, the next time anyone tells you that you don¡¯t have a father andugh at you, you tell them you have a father and he¡¯s better than both their parentsbined.¡± I told him and he nodded.

    ¡°Because you know your father, you¡¯ve seen how rich he is and he¡¯s better than their parents would ever be.¡± I added and this time Khalid had stopped crying.

    ¡°Can I go and see daddy and Ava today?¡± He asked and I closed my eyes shut in frustration. What has that bitch done to my son?

    Controlling myself and forcing out a smile, I told him to spend the rest of the day with me and he agreed.

    The both of us went to a nearby park and I felt at peace, satisfied and happy as I watched Khalid have fun and it was a happy day for us.

    Soon, he will have the whole world and Mason will get married to me. Shoving the thoughts aside, I joined him and we both yed around the park.

    It was a happy day for the both of us and I couldn¡¯t wait to get the result of what I¡¯d nned out for Ava.

    My phone rang and when I checked the caller ID, I had to excuse myself because it wasn¡¯t a call I could take in front of Khalid.

    ¡°How is the n going, you know we can¡¯t afford a flop?¡± The voice came and I smiled satisfactorily.

    ¡°I know we can¡¯t afford the n to fail but for now it¡¯s going as nned and soon I¡¯ll have everything I want.¡±

 Chapter 128

    Ava¡¯s POV

    On our way back into the house my leg got caught in a twig and I tripped, ¡°Are you okay?¡± Mason asked and I¡¯d tried to stand but every effort proved futile.

    ¡°I think I sprained my ankle.¡± I winced as I pulled my dress up to check the bruise. Worried, Mason immediately picked me up and we both went to the hospital.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, I just probably need it to give it a little bit of massage.¡± I protested but he didn¡¯t listen to me and he insisted we go to the hospital.

    ¡°She¡¯s fine but she can¡¯t stress the leg much. She has to rest for a few days.¡± The doctor advised us after checking on my leg and I raised an eyebrow at Mason.

    We drove back home but I wouldn¡¯t stop talking about how he took my sprained ankle.

    ¡°I was worried.¡± He sighed before leaning into me to kiss me and Iughed.

    ¡°Yeah, you were too busy worrying when you could¡¯ve been ying with me.¡± I whispered seductively with a wink as Mason carried me up the stairs.

    ¡°You know, I think I have a lot of time to y right now.¡± He responded,ying me on the bed as he ced his weight on me and kissed me but my legs were too weak for any action.

    Holding each other, I still felt tired and every attempt to keep talking to each other went to nought as my eyes closed.

    *****

    Mason had an important meeting with a Chinese investor today and while I was making the bed I found some important files that I knew the meeting wouldn¡¯t go on without.

    Limping and unable to drive, I ordered an Uber to the office since I desperately needed to get the files to Mason and I couldn¡¯t use my legs properly.

    ¡°Please put on your seatbelt.¡± The driver said and I did so as I looked out the window and just then a car crashed into us.

    The car has been following us for a while but I shrugged the thoughts off and thought that I was being paranoid.

    Scared, I dialed 911 and told them about our predicament and just when I¡¯d yelled out our location I got yanked out of the car.

    Trying to make something of the face of the men, I was unable to make anything of it because they were all masked up. The driver tried to fight them but he was knocked out with a bat.

    Without thinking, I bit one of the men so hard that he let go of me and just when I was about to run off I got pulled by my hair and felt a handkerchief on my nose.

    My head felt hazy, my vision blurry and soon everything around me became dark.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    Groaning, my eyes slightly opened and everything was still dark but my head still ached, I tried to move and that was when I realized that I¡¯ve been tied up. My mouth had duct tape on so I was unable to speak and that was when it dawned on me.

    I¡¯d just gotten kidnapped.

    Everywhere seemed silent except for the muffle sound of people talking and the thumping of my heart beat.

    What is going on? Still struggling to move I couldn¡¯t help but worry about Mason, he would be waiting for me by now and might even lose his client.

    Who would do this? Why would anyone want to hurt me?

    Soon, I started hearing footsteps and then male voices. The footsteps were louder and it felt as though whoever wasing was only seconds away, it was easy to tell that there was a woman among them because of the loud sound of her heels.

    The footsteps stopped and the cloth over my head was yanked away and my eyes widened when I saw the woman standing in front of me.

    My stomach churned as I stared into her amused yet angry brown eyes. Aisha was standing right in front of me, her shadows hovering over me as she grinned like one who¡¯d just won the lottery.

    Looking around, I couldn¡¯t register where I was since I got drugged before being brought here.

    Was it her? Did she n all this? Of course she did or she wouldn¡¯t be here right now.

    ¡°What do you want?¡± I asked as I moved in my position but what I¡¯d meant to say only came out in a muffle because of the duct tape on my mouth.

    ¡°Oh calm down now,¡± Aisha started as she crouched in front of me and I could feel my disgust go a notch higher, ¡°you don¡¯t want to try something stupid so you don¡¯t get killed, do you?¡± She finished and my eyes widened again.

    Looking around, I saw the angry men and some of them had guns while some held bats. She¡¯s right, she could kill me right now.

    ¡°You see, I tried to be nice and asked you to leave but like the stubborn bitch that you are you keep getting in the goddamn way of my ns and now I have no other choice than to get rid of you.¡± She started.

    My eyes widened again when she said something about getting rid of me. I wanted to ask why she was doing this but it was obvious enough.

    ¡°Mason likes me, he loves me!¡± She yelled that her voice echoed in the room and I almost jumped. ¡°He¡¯s only putting on a fake front because he pities your ass.¡± She added.

    Pulling out her phone, she showed me pictures of her and Mason. He was standing in front of her and she had only a towel that looked like it was about to loosen around her.

    Smirking, I knew better than to believe a word she said. I know how many times she¡¯d attempted to seduce Mason.

    I tried to say something again but it only came out in a muffle and frustrated, she asked them to remove the duct tape.

    ¡°You little bitch! Mason ising for me!¡± I spat at her and just at that moment I felt a sting on my cheek from her p.

    ¡°I¡¯ll kill you before that happens.¡±

 Chapter 129

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Pacing around the hall and waiting for Ava while I kept the Chinese investor in my office, I checked my wristwatch and let out a sigh.

    It¡¯s been over an hour since I¡¯d asked Ava to help me bring the file and I just felt like something was wrong somewhere or she would¡¯ve arrived.

    Hearing footsteps, I lifted my gaze to check who it was and I was disappointed when I saw Parker who immediately shook his head indicating that he hadn¡¯t seen Ava either.

    Hurriedly, my feet padded back to my office and I was met with a stare from the Chinese man.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry please, could you just give me some time to get the papers ready? Like tomorrow?¡± I asked nervously.

    He was silent for a while and I thought that I lost him already until he shrugged with a smile as he agreed toe back tomorrow.

    Shaking his hands, I walked him out of the office and when I was sure that he was gone I hurried back to my office and pulled out my phone to call Ava.

    It rang multiple times but she wasn¡¯t picking up. Unable to concentrate on anything and worried about her, I left work early to go back home.

    ¡°Ava?¡± I called as I checked every room but she wasn¡¯t in any one of them either.

    Where could she be?

    My heartbeat started racing and I knew that something was wrong. She¡¯d called earlier to tell me she was on her way to me so where could she be?

    Scared and confused, I immediately called Nicole who picked up at once, ¡°oh thank goodness Nicole, heard from Ava today?¡± I asked before she could say anything.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s been a while since I actually did,¡± she answered and my heart fell into my stomach at once. I couldn¡¯t get through to her and Nicole still hasn¡¯t heard from her.

    ¡°Why?¡± Nicole¡¯s voice jolted me out of my thoughts and I exined to her that I¡¯ve been unable to get through to her cell or even find her anywhere around the house.

    ¡°Did you guys fight again for her to leave the house because I swear Mason¡­¡± she started and I closed my eyes in frustration.

    ¡°No! We didn¡¯t fight,¡± I cut in, I didn¡¯t mean for it toe out in a yell but it did, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, we didn¡¯t have a fight or even argue.¡± I apologized and spoke slowly this time.

    ¡°Alright but it¡¯s unusual of her to just leave the house without informing anyone. I suggest you inform the police and I¡¯ll keep trying to call her here. She¡¯s fine, don¡¯t worry.¡± Nicole assured me before hanging up.

    If she doesn¡¯t live miles away from us I would¡¯ve thought Ava will be with her. Hurriedly, I went to the police to file a missing report and they kept asking a lot of unnecessary questions.

    Leaving the police stationte at night, I drove home dejected and worried. I didn¡¯t know what I would do if she¡¯s hurt or in any form of danger.

    The police had asked me toe back the next day and I hoped she would be home before then so I wouldn¡¯t have to go back there.

    On getting home, I saw the lights in the house were switched on and at that moment the only emotion I was filled with was relief.

    I knew she woulde back no matter what. Running out of my car, I made my way to the house.

    ¡°Ava! Where have you be¡­.¡± I was still talking when I opened the door and was met with an unexpected sight.

    What the hell is she doing here?

    Aisha wasying naked on my couch, smiling seductively as she tried to bite her lower lip and I couldn¡¯t help the gush of anger that surged through me as I hit my fist on the door.

    Angrily and trying to keep myself controlled, I closed my eyes in frustration and pinched down on the bridge of my nose as I ignored her and made my way to my room.

    I could tell that she was following me because of the footsteps I heard. Quickly, she ran to stand in front of me and shamelessly threw herself at me.

    Smothering my face with kisses and guiding my hand up to her breast, ¡°c¡¯mon, don¡¯t ignore the fact that you want a taste of all of this.¡± She whispered into my ear as she guided my other hand down to her neatly shaved pussy.

    Angrily, I pulled my hand away and pushed her so hard that I didn¡¯t care if she hit something dangerous and probably dropped dead.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you have any ounce of shame?¡± I asked and she only snickered as she tried to make her way back to me, ¡°touch me one more time and I¡¯ll make sure you regret it.¡± I said through gritted teeth.

    ¡°You know it¡¯s sexy when you¡¯re being tough, it turns me on.¡± She moaned and it was taking all I had in me to not hit her.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Get out of my house while I¡¯m being nice or a restraining order won¡¯t be the only thing restraining you from being here.¡± I threatened but she looked more amused than scared.

    ¡°I¡¯m the mother of your child, you can¡¯t do anything to me.¡± She shot back at me as she licked her lip and used her finger to make a path from my chest down to my dick.

    Stopping her, I dragged her down the stairs, ¡°put your clothes on and leave or I¡¯ll throw you out in the street naked!¡± I yelled, making her jump in fear.

    I watched as she put her clothes on angrily and walked back to me, ¡°you¡¯ll regret this.¡± She whispered through gritted teeth before leaving my house.

    mming the door shut, my legs felt too weak to carry me as I fell on the ground scared and worried about Ava.

    Where on earth could she be?

 Chapter 130

    Aisha¡¯s POV

    ¡°Son of a bitch, you just wait and see what I¡¯m going to do!¡± I yelled as I stomped out of his house and made my way back to the hideout where I was keeping Ava with the men.

    Blinded with rage and not caring if I hurt her or not, I kicked her so hard in her stomach that she spat out blood and I felt my anger subside.

    Seeing her in pain was just all I needed.

    ¡°It¡¯s all your fault! You!¡± I started as I pointed my index finger at her, ¡°I got there and he wouldn¡¯t even look at me!¡± I added angrily.

    I was still talking when Ava¡¯s mockingughter made me stop. Turning back to look at her, I wished I could snap her head out of her neck as she snorted.

    ¡°Why is it so hard to seduce him?¡± She asked amidst coughs with a raised eyebrow, ¡°if he loves you as much as you imed then it shouldn¡¯t be such a hard task.¡± She added and I felt my blood boil.

    Her expression shifted from pain to amusement as she stared at me, the sound of her voice and the way she red at me caused my anger to go a little over the edge as I slowly made my way back to her.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say he was just using me as a what?-¡± she continued and I could tell that she was enjoying it.

    She was enjoying my dilemma and using it to mock me, ¡°you¡¯re nothing but a pathetic liar and a fucking gold digger!¡± She yelled and that was it.

    Burying my palm on her cheek, I made sure that it left a print when I moved my hand away. The sight of her in pain was more satisfying than anything else.

    ¡°Say that one more time, I dare you!¡± I yelled as I hit her again and she spat out blood, making me smile. Yanking her by her hair so that she¡¯ll be looking directly into my eyes.

    ¡°Listen here and listen very fucking good.¡± I started, yanking her head even harder that she let out a cry of agony.

    ¡°The reason you¡¯re still alive and breathing this instant is because of the pity I feel for you.¡± I continued and I watched as she struggled to swallow.

    ¡°And you had better be careful and watch your mouth because my patience wears thin quickly and I will not hesitate to tell them to smash your head on the wall and probably dig into it with my heels as I pluck your eyes out. Don¡¯t dare me.¡± I finished.

    Releasing her from my hold roughly, I pushed her hard enough that she hit her head against the wall she was leaning on.

    ¡°You try anything stupid, I¡¯ll end you even before your life outside of here starts and that is if you get to go out.¡± Iughed as I cleaned my hand with the handkerchief one of the guys provided.

    I had no idea why I hadn¡¯t killed her yet but I knew that I wanted her out of the way. She took Mason from me and even Khalid is beginning to get fond of her.

    Before she could take anything else from me I want her out of the way but all of this is too much fun to just watch it go by without having a peak of fun.

    Taking another nce at her, her fear and despair grew as she curled up into a ball and moved farther away from me as if she was going into the wall.

    ¡°Watch her, she mustn¡¯t leave the four walls of this ce, food or water is a big No. Let the bitch starve.¡± I grounded the words out between my teeth before leaving in anger.

    My whole being was filled with hunger and waiting, I needed a good fuck and ever since I got pregnant with Khalid I never really got anyone to fuck me.

    I¡¯d gone to Mason in hopes that he would break and fuck me just as hard and good as he did that night but that bitch has him in a chokehold and he wouldn¡¯t even look my way.

    Angrily, I hailed a taxi and went to the nearest club. Khalid stayed at a friend¡¯s ce because I thought I would be able to seduce Mason but since I¡¯m free, I might as well just have my own fun.

    ¡°Sex on the beach please.¡± I ced my order as I went through my purse for my phone and scrolled through the inte.

    The inte woulde in handy if I¡¯m sessful with my ns. Smiling to myself, I took a sip of my drink as I thought about other ways to get Mason.

    ¡°You know why they¡¯re called sex on the beach?¡± I turned to see an unfamiliar male beside me and I raised an eyebrow.

    He looked handsome in the club light, I stared down at him and I could feel his eyes size me up intently. Rubbing my thighs together, I felt the wetness between my legs and I groaned.

    It¡¯s been a while since I really had anything like this, ¡°I don¡¯t know, why don¡¯t you tell me.¡± I responded as I bit my lower lip.

    He was smart enough to get the signal because he came closer to me and the scent from his perfume was mesmerizing.

    ¡°You want me to show you?¡± He asked and my lips parted but nothing came out, my voice betrayed me. ¡°I¡¯ll show you.¡± He whispered.

    ¡°Fuck it, alright.¡± I groaned as I took his hand and we both walked out of the club. For now all I really need is some hardcore sex from this hot stranger.

    We got into his car and I couldn¡¯t help but notice the bulge in his trousers and I gasped.

    He¡¯s huge.

    I¡¯m going to enjoy myself tonight, I can think about the best way to deal with Ava tomorrow.

 Chapter 131

    Mason¡¯s POV

    ¡°No, she¡¯s not home yet and I¡¯ve been trying to call her but no one is answering her phone, I just hope she¡¯s okay.¡± I sighed as I pinched down on my nose.

    It¡¯s been hard and two days now and Ava is still not home. Worried, I called Nicole to ask if she¡¯s gotten any word from her but it¡¯s the same thing.

    No one knew where she might be and even her mom is starting to get worried. At first I¡¯d thought she was probably mad at me but I knew that I didn¡¯t do anything wrong for her to be mad.

    ¡°Pick up please, please.¡± I muttered as I called her phone and hoped she would at least answer. I took a swig of my coffee before setting the cup aside and just like thest time no one answered.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    This doesn¡¯t seem right, nothing does and I know that Ava would never go anywhere without telling me or her best friend or even her mom first.

    I¡¯d filed a missing report but the police seemed to be too rxed to do anything about it. Scrolling through all of her socials, I still couldn¡¯t find anything.

    Her absence was taking a toll on me and I¡¯ve been unable to sleep, concentrate on anything. I was d that the Chinese investor understood and he¡¯d asked me to take my time.

    Eating without her was hard and all I do all day is call everyone I¡¯ve told about this to know if anyone of them has seen or heard from her and take coffee.

    ¡°She¡¯s fine, I believe she is. She¡¯s an adult and¡­¡±

    ¡°Nothing bad happens to adults?¡± I shot at Malik who was still talking but kept shut when I growled at him, ¡°she hasn¡¯t been home in days and you expect me to believe she¡¯s fine?¡± I added.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be sorry and just fucking help me find her, any police you know outside the city, any trace please. Anything at this point.¡± I yelled but it became the worst decision I could have made.

    My head rang and the pain sent chills down my spine as everything around me turned ck for a while, I was unable to see anything but soon my vision was restored.

    I¡¯ve been having headaches like this one since yesterday and I knew it was because of the stress my body has had to go through.

    ¡°Take it easy man, we¡¯ll find her.¡± Malik assured me and with a nod, I made my way to my car and drove off.

    Everything happening around me was so overwhelming that I couldn¡¯t spare any time for Khalid. I¡¯ll make it up to him when I find Ava, I just hope she¡¯s fine.

    My heart dropped to my stomach as the thoughts of every horrible thing that could¡¯ve happened to her filled my head but I managed to shake the thoughts off.

    ¡°Mason!¡± Nicole called from over the phone when I answered, ¡°found her yet? What did the police say?¡± She asked and I let out a sigh.

    I haven¡¯t really gotten a positive feedback from the police, Nicole, my dad and her mum are also worried sick about her.

    My chest tightened in fear as I¡¯d almost collided with the car in front of me. Looking out the window, I could¡¯ve sworn that I saw Ava.

    Running out of my car, ¡°Ava!¡± I yelled as I turned the woman to face me and she was nothing like Ava.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± I apologized to her and after looking at me like I was some kind of freak she left and I walked back to my car.

    I was going crazy and I knew it.

    AISHA POV

    Mason hadn¡¯t beening to check on it even pick up Khalid like he usually does, he doesn¡¯t even care about his own son.

    He cares more about Ava than his own son!

    The thought of Mason loving Ava to an extent that he¡¯dpletely forgotten about everything else got me even angrier.

    I¡¯d gone to his office and each time they¡¯d tell me that he wasn¡¯t around. My blood boiled and I made up my mind to take Khalid to Ava.

    ¡°Mommy, why is Ava here?!¡± He asked in shock the moment he set eyes on her and I could see the fear written boldly on his face as he stared at her.

    ¡°Listen here boy!¡± I yelled as I yanked him so that he would be looking at me, ¡°she¡¯s here because she deserves to be here. Have you seen your dad since yesterday?¡± I asked and he shook his head.

    ¡°Exactly and that¡¯s because of her, he was supposed toe and pick you up yesterday but he didn¡¯t because of Her!¡± I finished.

    I could feel my anger building up inside of me and I did nothing to control it. I needed to sabotage her in front of Khalid. He needs to know that he cannot trust her.

    All my efforts to make Ava look bad proved to nothingness when Khalid yanked himself out of my hold and went straight to hug Ava.

    ¡°Did mommy tie you up?¡± He asked and my heart sank before he shook his head, ¡°she wouldn¡¯t do that. Who tied you up?¡± He added and I let out a smile.

    He still loves and trusts me.

    Ava, who was unable to speak, let out a groan as she coughed and I only watched in satisfaction as the life gradually drained out of her.

    ¡°She looks like she¡¯ll die soon.¡± I smiled  at one of the men who smiled back and nodded.

    ¡°Looks like it, we¡¯ll just have to give her time and then we can dump her somewhere, let them find her dead body.¡± He answered and I smiled at the suggestion.

    That way no one would know that I was the one who¡¯d nned all of this and Mason would have no other choice than to marry me.

 Chapter 132

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I felt a little but at ease to know that Khalid still cared for me, he¡¯d asked his mom why I was there and when he asked who¡¯d tied me up all I could let out was a groan.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    It¡¯s been days since Ist ate anything, my stomach churned and growled while the rest of my body felt as though they were numb already.

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell mommy and¡­.¡± The child was still talking when Aisha angrily yanked him away from me as if I was some sort of gue.

    Well, to her I¡¯m a gue that should be gotten rid of instead of allowed.

    ¡°I¡¯m not doing anything,¡± She snarled at Khalid who winced and I could tell that it was due to the way her fingers dug into his skin.

    ¡°Except getting rid of her for good!¡± She yelled, making him jump in fear, ¡°don¡¯t you get it? She¡¯s in the way of us getting Mason to ourselves. How can you still be here having pity on her?¡± She finished.

    I could only watch as she spoke to her son who was obviously confused and had no idea what was going on.

    ¡°I love Ava and I don¡¯t want you to get rid of her.¡± Khalid responded innocently and my heart tightened as I stared at him, tears already welling up in his eyes.

    Taking a look at Aisha, I could tell that she was resisting the urge to do something terrible to the child for not wanting to get rid of me. I could see her eyes red with anger as she snapped at Khalid.

    ¡°You idiot, you wouldn¡¯t understand.¡± She hissed as she dragged Khalid who doesn¡¯t want to leave me behind out of the small, damp room I was kept in.

    Without knowing what else to do, my body felt weak and I was unable to do anything else but cry my eyes out.

    My body hurts and with each day that passed I could feel my life gradually leaving me. I had no idea how long I could hold on for.

    Crying, I wished Mason would find me soon and I just couldn¡¯t help but think about how he¡¯s fairing without meing home for days.

    How is he coping? Sobbing, my heart went out to Khalid and how unfortunate he is for having a mother like Aisha who in the first ce shouldn¡¯t be called a mother.

    AISHA POV

    It¡¯s been a few days and Mason still hasn¡¯t called to check on his son or evene to pick him up and spend some time with him.

    The knock on the door made me pause the movie I was watching as I set my ss down to answer. I wondered who it might be since I barely had any visitors.

    Answering the door, I saw Mason at the door post and he looked worn out, the disappearance of Ava was taking a toll on him and it made me even angrier.

    He wasn¡¯t alone, he had cops with him and I already knew why they were here. Ushering them in, I offered them a seat and they¡¯d asked me questions about Ava.

    ¡°You know, I understand the fact that you don¡¯t like me and all of my attempts to get you to like me all went to waste but did you really think I had a hand in Ava¡¯s disappearance?¡± I asked as I stared innocently at Mason who was shocked by my act.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare!¡± He yelled as he stood toe near me but was stopped by the police officers. It was easy to let the tears fall freely as I stared at Mason.

    ¡°I have nothing to do with it,¡± I denied, ¡°I don¡¯t like her but I would never keep her hostage somewhere. You can search my apartment.¡± I sniffled.

    The policemen apologized for their disturbance and they asked if they coulde for more questioning and I told them that there was no problem.

    When I was sure they¡¯d left, I had no idea where the roaringughter that escaped my mouth came from, ¡°you¡¯ll search to the ends of the earth and you still wouldn¡¯t find her.¡± I smiled to myself.

    Leaving Mason to continue his endless search of Ava and with Khalid at school, I went to the guys and the sight of Ava being horrible was satisfying but I wanted more.

    cing a knife on fire, I made sure that the men burnt her skin with it and the loud wailing of pain that escaped her mouth made me smile satisfactorily.

    ¡°You¡¯re not getting out of here alive, I promise.¡± I started as I stared down at the burn on her skin and watched her cry.

    ¡°And even if you do I¡¯ll make sure that you look so bad and bartered that you¡¯ll wish for death every single day.¡± I snarled before walking out of the room in anger.

    Making my way home, I hurriedly went to the kitchen so I could prepare dinner for Khalid who still looked sad about the fact that I was holding Ava.

    Why does he love her and care about her so much?

    ¡°Is Ava still in that ce?¡± He asked while I was chopping the onions and I closed my eyes in frustration because if god doesn¡¯t help me I¡¯ll do what I might regret to him.

    ¡°I miss her and I want to see her.¡± He added and that was thest straw for me. Angrily, I ced the knife down before turning to face him and something about the way I looked might¡¯ve scared him.

    ¡°The next time you mention Ava or anything about her to me or to anyone else I¡¯ll make sure that I send you to the orphanage and you will rot there!¡± I yelled as I stared at my son who was already crying.

    Sighing, I made my way closer to him in a bid to console him but he only moved away from my hold.

    ¡°I hate you!¡± He yelled before running to his room.

 Chapter 133

    Aisha¡¯s POV

    Khalid refused to talk to me and he¡¯d even gotten himself ready for school before I could get the chance to do that like I usually do.

    ¡°Look, I¡¯m really sorry and I didn¡¯t mean any of what I said yesterday.¡± I started but he only ignored me as he picked up his backpack.

    The school bus honked and Khalid made his way to the bus, totally ignoring me and getting into the bus without saying his usual goodbyes to me.

    It¡¯s that bitch¡¯s fault that my own son wouldn¡¯t talk to me, the thought of Ava being the reason my own son was ignoring me made my blood boil.

    Picking up my phone, I¡¯d thought that calling Mason and probably asking him toe pick his son up sometime and also spend time with him would help.

    His phone rang multiple times but he ignored all of my calls. Frustrated, I groaned and I¡¯d wanted to m the phone on the wall when it buzzed.

    I unlocked it to see that Mason had sent money for Khalid¡¯s upkeep and it also came with a message that asked me to stop calling me or he¡¯d report me to the authorities.

    Does he really think I was calling him for money or that I needed his money?

    Angrily, I called him again and again but he kept ignoring until he couldn¡¯t anymore and switched his phone off.

    ¡°Who does he even think he is?¡± I asked myself as I sat on the couch and thought of all the possible things I could do.

    He was getting on my nerves and I didn¡¯t know how long I¡¯d be able to tolerate him before I finally lost it.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    If it weren¡¯t for the fact that I wanted to get married to him and all that I¡¯ve had nned I really would¡¯ve gotten rid of him too.

    Standing up, I prepared to go back to see Ava and also remind her that she¡¯d better start praying that Mason does as I say or not only will she die, I¡¯ll make sure I kill him too.

    AVA¡¯S POV

    My body burned and I was unable toy down properly but it was unfortunate for me because I was tied up in a position that I had to lie down with the part that hurt.

    Staring at the burn on my leg too, I couldn¡¯t help but think about what I¡¯ve done to Aisha for her to treat me this bad.

    The door opened and the lights turned on all of a sudden. It affected my eyes that I let out a wince as I tried to sit up since I already knew who my visitor was.

    Unable to move, the men helped me up before excusing us and I was staring into a pair of the most angry eyes I¡¯d ever seen.

    She looked mad, furious and not just at me. Probably at the world and universe for not giving her what she wants.

    ¡°You, what do you have him on?!¡± She yelled and I knew she was talking about Mason. It made me happy to know that he didn¡¯t just run to her and he¡¯d instead resisted all of her seduction.

    I watched as Aisha ranted angrily and paced around the small room, I got to know that Khalid hadn¡¯t been talking to her and Mason had gone to her apartment with the cops.

    ¡°He got drunk so what if I added a little bit of sleeping pill in his drink? He was already drunk before I did that!¡± She yelled and my eyes widened in shock.

    It was no wonder that Mason had no memory of what had happened between the two of them. If he was just drunk he probably would¡¯ve remembered but he was also drugged.

    She continued ranting and told me about how he¡¯d had sex with her that night because she looked like me at that moment and getting to know all about this only made me feel stupid for not hearing him out the first time.

    ¡°You raped him? You¡¯re a fucking rapist!¡± I yelled and that was when Aisha realized everything she¡¯d just said to me.

    The shock and realization was evident in her face but she did a good job trying to hide it and acting like it didn¡¯t bother her.

    ¡°That¡¯s not rape, if anything I¡¯m the victim. He¡¯s the man and I¡¯m a woman.¡± She shot back at me and I scoffed.

    ¡°You¡¯re the fucking culprit because you drugged him and took advantage of his vulnerability.¡± I retorted and sheughed at me.

    ¡°He was going through a heartbreak and the sex made him feel better than you would ever make him feel. That¡¯s a win-win situation isn¡¯t it?¡± She asked with a raised eyebrow and I was disgusted.

    I felt sick to my stomach as I stared at the psycho in front of me. Day by Day I keep finding out things about Aisha and they were so horrible that there¡¯ll be no way in hell that I¡¯ll pity her when judgementes.

    She doesn¡¯t even deserve to be called a woman because she took advantage of a broken man¡¯s vulnerability and neither does she deserve to be called a mother because she conceived her child by sleeping with and drugging a man that already wasn¡¯t in the right state of mind.

    The fact that I¡¯d left Mason in the first ce because I thought he was lying when in reality he was the victim.

    She¡¯d taken advantage of him, I couldn¡¯t help the rush of guilt that filled me. I owe Mason a lot of apology and I hoped he¡¯ll forgive me for thinking he was unfaithful to me.

    Taking a disgusting look at Aisha who obviously enjoyed seeing me in pain, my stomach churned in disgust. She doesn¡¯t deserve to be walking the surface of earth freely.

    If I make it out of here alive I¡¯m going to make sure that she pays dearly.

 Chapter 134

    NARRATOR

    Aisha got home stressed but satisfied from inflicting just the right amount of pain on Ava like she¡¯d intended.

    The n was to make Ava look as horrible as possible so that Mason would finally get tired of her and that way Aisha could strike.

    Her phone rang, jolting her out of her thoughts and  she was surprised at whose caller ID popped up on the phone.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    He never calls and they only spoke anytime she calls him and she couldn¡¯t help but wonder if he¡¯d probably found out about Ava but she shrugged the thoughts off.

    Clearing her throat, she brought the phone to her ear, ¡°look who finally decides to call.¡± Sheughed and Mason, who doesn¡¯t have a single time for her and her jokes only cautioned her.

    ¡°I¡¯m only calling because I wanted to talk to Khalid,¡± he started and Aisha rolled her eyes in disgust, ¡°I haven¡¯t gotten to speak to him so tell me if he¡¯s with you or in bed already.¡± He finished.

    ¡°So now you get to remember you have a son?¡± Aisha snarled into the phone as rage pulsed through her veins.

    ¡°I have no time for whatever stunts or mocks you have in store, just tell me if he¡¯s there or not.¡± Mason demanded.

    ¡°Whether he¡¯s here or not is none of your damn business since you left him because of that bitch of yours.¡± She shot back at him.

    She¡¯d thought he probably called to fix a time for just the both of them but apparently after days he just remembered that he has a son.

    ¡°We don¡¯t need you nor do I want you calling me every time.¡± She hissed before hanging up on Mason.

    Khalid could only stare at his mother in confusion as he wondered why she would talk to his father like that.

    He missed his father so much and he also felt a sense of pity because he knew his father was unable to talk to him because of Ava¡¯s disappearance which he¡¯s trying to get to the bottom of.

    How is he going to tell his father that his mother was keeping Ava hostage without putting his mother in trouble or getting into trouble with her?

    The sound of the phone ringing jolted the troubled boy out of his thoughts as he stared at the phone vibrating on the table.

    His palm itched to pick it up and acting confused, ¡°who is calling, mommy?¡± He asked, feigning innocence as Aisha rolled her eyes.

    ¡°It¡¯s Mason and none of us will talk to him.¡± She said firmly but the boy who has a mind of his own picked the call and made his way to his room.

    He knew his mind could never be at peace if he doesn¡¯t tell Mason what he knows so he¡¯d be able to get Ava out of the dirty room she was kept in.

    ¡°Hello daddy,¡± he called into the phone and a gush of relief swept through Mason, he hadn¡¯t spoken to his son in a long time.

    ¡°Son, how are you?¡± He asked, sniffling and trying to not let his pain show in his voice but there was only little he could do since the boy noticed it already.

    ¡°I¡¯m doing good, daddy,¡± Khalid replied, ¡°mommy isn¡¯t here right now and I¡¯m not supposed to be answering her calls.¡± He exined.

    He exined to his dad how he¡¯d defied his mother and picked the call anyway but he made sure to be where his mother wouldn¡¯t be quick to check.

    ¡°I miss you so much.¡± Khalid affirmed with tears in his eyes, since Ava was missing he hadn¡¯t gotten the time to spend a full day with his father and he missed all of that.

    ¡°I missed you too, son,¡± Mason replied, ¡°I am so sorry for being unavable and I understand if you don¡¯t like me very much right now¡­.¡±

    ¡°I will always love you, dad,¡± Khalid cut in and Mason couldn¡¯t suppress his sadugh, ¡°I have to tell you something dad but first you must promise not to tell anyone because my mom wouldn¡¯t be happy with me.¡± He added and Mason¡¯s curiosity spiked.

    What could his son want to tell him that he had to make a promise not to tell anyone.

    ¡°My mommy knows where Ava is, she took me to see her and Ava isn¡¯t really good. She¡¯s badly hurt and I want you to save her.¡± Khalid cried as Mason¡¯s eyes widened in shock.

    He remembers going to interrogate her with the cops and how Aisha cried iming not to know anything about Ava¡¯s disappearance.

    He knew he felt uneasy and something about Ava wasn¡¯t really right, Mason¡¯s fury spiked to life as he listened to Khalid tell him all that he needed to know.

    Anger welled up in his chest but he kept his frustration in check as he swallowed before telling Khalid to hand his mother¡¯s phone back to her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell her anything about this conversation.¡± Mason cautioned and Khalid nodded as he promised not to mention anything about it.

    Walking out of the store room, Khalid went to drop his mother¡¯s phone and raising an eyebrow, Aisha asked about what they talked about.

    ¡°It¡¯s a secret between Daddy and I.¡± Khalid answered with a fake smile before going to sit on one of the chairs as he awaits his dinner.

    Aisha shrugged and served her son, part of her was happy that Mason was now speaking to her and even though she had no idea what Khalid and Mason talked about she felt like he was going to mention something about her attitude to Khalid.

    She has to act fast and make sure that he never finds Ava or he wouldn¡¯t want to keep building a bond with her.

    Smiling devilishly to herself, Aisha served Khalid his meal and rubbed his head before going to sit beside him.

    ¡°Soon, we¡¯ll have everything we deserve.¡± She assured him with a smile.

 Chapter 135

    Mason¡¯s POV

    My whole being burned with anger when I dropped the call with Khalid and I paced around the room in frustration.

    I knew that Aisha was crazy but I never expected that she would be crazy enough to abduct Ava. My heart sank at the thought of it and I just couldn¡¯t help but worry about her.

    How has she been doing? Khalid mentioned that she hadn¡¯t been good and I just knew that she must¡¯ve been badly hurt.

    Resentment festered in me as I hurriedly drove to Aisha¡¯s apartment and I was d when I knew that she was at home.

    Angrily, I kicked the door open and although she was shocked to see me in her apartment, I watched as the shock got reced with happiness.

    Making her way close to me seductively as she bit her lower lips and tried to kiss me, ¡°where the hell is she?¡± I roared before pushing her away from me and not caring if she hit her head.

    ¡°Where are you keeping her hostage?¡± I demanded and I saw a look of realization dawning on her as she took a look at Khalid.

    She must¡¯ve known now that he told me. Taking a look at my son, he was shaking with fear and I could see the tears welling up in his eyes as he looked at his mother.

    Not long after, the boy started crying and my heart broke into a million pieces when I noticed that Aisha doesn¡¯t care one bit about him.

    ¡°You¡¯re really going to pay for this. I¡¯m going to beat you up so bad that you¡¯re going to hate the day you were born.¡± She threatened through gritted teeth and my mouth dropped open.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, mommy.¡± Khalid cried, pleading profusely and obviously regretting the fact that he chose to tell me about his mother¡¯s wrong doings.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t hit me.¡± He added amidst tears, his voice breaking as he huped and my stomach tightened.

    If Khalid is begging his mother this hard to not beat him then it¡¯s definitely not the first time that Aisha would hit him.

    She doesn¡¯t care about her own child and it was really easy for her to threaten him. How could she do that to a little child? Does she even deserve to be called a mother?This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    She mustn¡¯t get away with this. When everything is over I¡¯m going to make sure I take full custody of the child and send her to jail but first I needed to know where she kept Ava.

    ¡°You bloody kidnapper!¡± I growled between clenched teeth as I moved closer to her, ¡°where did you have her locked up?!¡± I added and the sound of her cynicalughter aroused the anger I felt inside me.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll tell you where she is when you¡¯re ready to get married to me, how¡¯s that?¡± She asked and my blood boiled.

    How dare she?

    She dared to make demands and doesn¡¯t even care that things like this could get her in trouble. My mind wandered off and I just couldn¡¯t help but wonder for how long has she been doing all this?

    ¡°We¡¯re joking now?¡± Iughed, ¡°stop being delusional, I would never and I mean never get married to a kidnapper and a bad mother such as yourself!¡± I yelled and she only shrugged.

    ¡°Well then I guess you¡¯re not ready to know where your lovely Ava is.¡± She smiled as she sat on the couch and crossed her legs together.

    Laughing hysterically as she stared at me and told me to leave her house ande back when I was ready to get married to her.

    Pulling out my phone and turning my back, I¡¯d thought of calling the cops when I turned to face her and I was taken aback by what I saw.

    She was holding a revolver to my face, ¡°hang that damn call up now and hand the phone over to me or you die right here and now.¡± She threatened as her finger moved to the trigger.

    My blood went cold and it was almost as if it was dried up already as I handed the phone over to her shivering.

    ¡°Now slowly make your way out and walk to your car!¡± She added, I stammered and I¡¯d wanted to ask her to be reasonable when she yanked Khalid in front of her and ced the gun to his hand.

    ¡°Move out now or I¡¯ll kill him. Trust me, I don¡¯t give a shit!¡± She yelled, making me jump in fear and adhere to her rules.

    How could she bring the little boy into all of this mess?

    ¡°Please mommy, please don¡¯t hurt me.¡± Khalid begged as his tears flowed freely and his mother only yelled at him to keep his mouth shut which he did but he still whimpered.

    First she used to hit him and now she doesn¡¯t care if she mistakenly pulled the trigger on him, she doesn¡¯t care about him enough that she had to use him, her own son, as bait.

    Slowly, we all walked out of the house and made our way to my car. She turned my phone off before ransacking my car and I knew it was to check if I had anything in it.

    ¡°Now scoot over slowly and don¡¯t try anything stupid or I¡¯ll shoot him dead right here and make sure you don¡¯t have a child to call yours!¡± She threatened.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do anything, anything just don¡¯t hurt me or the boy,¡± I started my palm sweaty and I started feeling hot even though the car was fully ventted.

    ¡°He¡¯s too young to be experiencing all of this, please,¡± I begged but all of my pleas fell on deaf ears as she didn¡¯t care about me or her own son.

    ¡°W¡­ Where are you taking us to?¡± I eventually asked when she wasn¡¯t saying anything but driving.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to see Ava.¡± She snarled before stepping on the elerator and zooming off on the highway.

 Chapter 136

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Silently, I sat in the backseat as I watched Aisha drive like she was going crazy, there was only little I could do except try to navigate my way through my other phone without being suspicious.

    Khalid¡¯s whimper jolted me out of my thoughts and I just couldn¡¯t help but feel sorry for the boy for having someone like Aisha as his mother,

    If that one night mistake hadn¡¯t happened, he wouldn¡¯t have been unfortunate to be born to someone like her but on the brighter side I got to be the father of the ball of sunshine.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to be fine.¡± I hushed Khalid and he seemed to have a lot of trust in me as he nodded slightly and Aisha let out a hystericalugh.

    Pulling over suddenly, she yanked Khalid out of the car and demanded that I followed her into the upleted building silently.

    ¡°There she is,¡± my heart sank when I saw Ava. She looked like she¡¯d been beaten badly and just when I was about to walk towards her Aisha¡¯s voice stopped me.

    ¡°You move one more inch and they¡¯re both dead meats,¡± she threatened as she held the gun to Khalid¡¯s head.

    Tossing a ring at me, ¡°Get on one knee right now and I don¡¯t need to teach you how to propose, do I?¡± She grounded the words between her teeth and a cold shiver ran through me.

    ¡°You shut your damn mouth up or I¡¯ll shut it up for you!¡± She yelled at Khalid who¡¯d been sobbing through the entire scenario and the boy swallowed hard.

    ¡°Listen, Aisha,¡± I started, trying to stall and give the cops more time so a lot of damage wouldn¡¯t have been done by the time they got here.

    She had no idea that I¡¯d given her my casual phone and that the business phone was still with me and on our way here I¡¯d dialed 911 already. I didn¡¯t need to talk because I made sure they heard the whole thing and knew that we¡¯re in danger.

    ¡°There has to be another way to settle things, no one has to get hurt and if you wouldn¡¯t think of anyone else at least think of your son.¡± My voice was low this time and I hoped she would listen to me.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°Fuck you and fuck the son,¡± she spat back, ¡°for years I¡¯d raised him alone and you think I did that just because I was generous?¡± Sheughed and I had no idea when my mouth dropped open.

    ¡°Now get on your knees and make me your damn wife!¡± She ordered, I was running out of things to say but I was sure that the cops were on their way.

    ¡°C¡¯mon, I know you¡¯re only trying to act tough. You¡¯re a good woman at heart and you shouldn¡¯t let something like¡­.¡±

    I was still talking when the sudden sound of gunshot filled the air, I could smell the gunpowder and all the color I once saw left my face as I looked to see who was hurt.

    ¡°Don¡¯t try to sweet talk me, Mason, I know how to use the gun.¡± She smirked and I was thankful that Ava and Khalid were safe.

    I needed to stall but there was nothing else I could do to get her to keep talking because I could see her patience wearing thin.

    ¡°Fine.¡± I muttered as I took the ring and walked towards her. Taking a nce at Ava, she shook her head trying to stop me from doing what I was about to do.

    My heart hurts seeing her in that state and I had no other choice than to do what I had to do to get her out of here as fast as possible.

    Getting down on one knee, I took a look at Khalid and he too was scared. I knew how bad he wanted me to get married to his mom but today was different, his eyes begged for me to not do it.

    ¡°Aisha,¡± I cleared my throat as I called her name and I could see the glint of excitement in her eyes, ¡°will you marry me?¡± I finished and her shout for joy filled the room.

    Ava looked dejected and I just hoped she would understand why I did it. Mouthing, I told her I was sorry and she only blinked with a nod.

    ¡°Yes! Yes! I¡¯ll marry you.¡± Aisha¡¯s shriek put a halt to my thoughts and stared as she took the ring she¡¯d bought herself from me.

    After taking the ring, she tapped into her phone with her face full of smiles and it didn¡¯t take long for my phone to chime.

    Closing my eyes in frustration since I¡¯d thought I kept it on silent, I saw Aisha¡¯s facial expression change but soon changed back.

    She wasn¡¯t mad at the fact that I¡¯d given her another phone?

    Pulling out my phone because the buzzing and chiming just won¡¯t stop, I unlocked it to find news of me having a child with Aisha and also getting married to her on so many headlines at once.

    ¡®We have a cute little boy together and I¡¯m so happy to announce to you all that we¡¯re married and can¡¯t wait to have more beautiful moments together.

    -Aisha.¡¯

    Pictures of me and her that I had no idea where she got them all from including Khalid flooded the inte and I could feel my fury gradually oveing me.

    Swallowing down my frustration, I showed her the phone and news and she only shrugged as she grinned from ear to ear.

    ¡°What the hell is the meaning of this?¡± I bellowed, Anger rising in me like a tide and I could hear the throbbing of my rage in me like a drumbeat.

    ¡°This is the beginning of our new life, this is our new future and Ava here won¡¯t be a part of that.¡± She smiled wickedly.

    There¡¯s no way she¡¯s going to do that.

 Chapter 137

    Mason¡¯s POV

    ¡°Since this is decided, we can move to the next,¡± Aisha sighed as she pointed the gun at Ava and just at that moment the cops stormed in and I heaved out a breath that I had no idea I was holding in the first ce.

    What took them so long? I was beginning to think that they weren¡¯t going toe.

    ¡°You did this?!¡± She asked in a yell and I could see her eyes zing with rage and fury as she shot stares like daggers at me.

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t have to be like this, Aisha.¡± I persuaded but something about what I said seemed to set her off even more.

    ¡°Shut the hell up!¡± She yelled as she moved from pointing the gun at Ava to pointing it at me, ¡°you have no fucking right to tell me how it¡¯s supposed to be like when you caused all of these in the first ce!¡± She responded.

    Her breathing paced and I could see her heart beating fast as her chest moved up and down beneath her dress.

    ¡°We¡¯re married like we should be, we should be thinking about starting a new Chapter of our life.¡± She added.

    ¡°You¡¯re surrounded, drop your weapon and ce your hand behind your head.¡± The voice of one of the cops from the public address system brought us back to the realization that the cops were around.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Laughing hysterically, Aisha switched focus back to Ava, ¡°I won¡¯t hesitate to shoot her dead right now if anyone darese close to me!¡± She affirmed and I took a nce at the cops who only paused in their tracks.

    I knew that they were trying to reduce the amount of casualties and make sure that no one gets hurt but I just couldn¡¯t help but think about what would happen if Aisha really decides to pull the trigger.

    Without thinking, I leaped in front of Aisha and I¡¯d tried to yank the gun off her hand when the sound of a gunshot filled the air.

    My world froze and time seemed to have stopped as the sound echoed again in my head. The smell of gunpowder hit my nose and the sound of Ava¡¯s scream made my heart stop.

    Did she shoot? What just happened?

    Turning, the sight I was met with was even more terrifying than I¡¯d expected it to be. Khalid wasying down on the floor in pain and was clutching his side.

    The bullet had hit him and he was bleeding profusely as Ava cried while she struggled to set herself free so she could go to him but the rope she was tied up with was too tight.

    ¡°Khalid!¡± I screamed before pushing Aisha off and sprinting to my son¡¯s side. His eyes dted with pain before squinting back slowly.

    ¡°No, no, no. Don¡¯t do this, keep your eyes open. Stay with me.¡± I tried to get his eyes to stay open and I pped him gently.

    ¡°Daddy,¡± he called softly and my chest tightened as every one of my being got filled with horror and I didn¡¯t want to think of all the terrible things that could happen right now.

    ¡°Is Ava Okay?¡± He asked and the next thing I heard was Ava¡¯s loud sob. That was when I realized how magnificent the love he had for Ava is.

    ¡°She¡¯s fine, Ava is here.¡± I answered amidst bitterughter as I watched my son¡¯s eyes closed and I couldn¡¯t help the scream that came out of my mouth.

    The gun had left Aisha¡¯s hand and before she could gain another ess to the gun the cops already seized her.

    Watching as the cops took Aisha out of the building, I tried really hard to find a heartbeat and performed CPR on Khalid.

    The only emotion I felt was relief when Khalid gasped and that was the only assurance I needed to know that he was still alive.

    I¡¯d almost given up. I thought I lost him.

    Leaving Khalid¡¯s side for a while, I ran over to set Ava free and cradled her close to my chest as I smothered her face with kisses.

    ¡°You¡¯re fine! You¡¯re fine, I¡¯m d you¡¯re fine. Are you hurt?¡± I asked like it wasn¡¯t obvious enough and I didn¡¯t stop the tears from letting itself free as Ava nodded.

    cing her head on my chest, she sobbed on my chest, ¡°I love you.¡± She muttered and I smiled as I told her how much I love her too.

    ¡°I love you too, Ava. I love you so much Ava. Thank goodness you¡¯re fine.¡± I replied as I kissed her hair and stroked it lightly.

    ¡°Khalid,¡± She cried, her voice breaking and her lips quivering as she pointed towards Khalid, ¡°he needs help.¡± She added and I nodded.

    ¡°The paramedics are on their way with the ambnce and they¡¯ll be here soon.¡± I assured her as the both of us went back to Khalid.

    Ava was too weak to walk but she¡¯d heard the boy ask about her well-being and didn¡¯t want to leave him there.

    cing Khalid¡¯s head on herp, I watched as she stroked his hair, leaned in to kiss him and whisper to him how much she loved him.

    The rest of the building was cleared and three other men were arrested with Aisha. The police took all of them away and soon the ambnce arrived.

    ¡°How is he doing?¡± I asked and one of the paramedics exined to us that it looked like the bullet grazed him so no major damage was done since his heart and rib are still in good shape.

    ¡°That¡¯s great.¡± Ava whispered and something about the way she looked didn¡¯t seem right to me. Her eyes closed and she fell on me.

    Quickly, she was rushed into the ambnce and it took the three of us to the hospital so we¡¯ll be properly attended to.

    I¡¯m just d I didn¡¯t lose any of them.

 Chapter 138

    Mason¡¯s POV

    We soon got to the hospital and I felt as though my heart was about to jump out of my chest as Ava was rushed into the intensive care unit.

    She was burned badly and she had bruises all over her that made me get even angrier at Aisha but now that she¡¯s in custody I felt a little bit at ease.

    ¡°You also need to be looked at.¡± A nurse said to me as she asked me to follow her to the ward. She ran a few tests before setting up the IV for me.

    My head felt hazy and everything in the room seemed to be moving a little too fast before the darkness consumed me.

    ******

    Groaning, I opened my eyes to see that I was still in the hospital ward and there was a doctor and a nurse there with me.

    My head hurts a little but it was better than it was yesterday, ¡°you¡¯re up early.¡± The doctor pointed out and I let out a small weak smile.

    ¡°How¡¯s my son and Ava?¡± I asked the doctor who handed the nurse a file with a smile.

    ¡°Your son is fine, like the paramedics might have told you it was just a graze and he¡¯s at the children¡¯s ward well taken care of.¡± The doctor exined and I felt a sense of peace sweep through me.

    ¡°Luckily, there¡¯s no infection and he¡¯s asleep right now so you have to let him rest. He¡¯s really young for all he had to see.¡± He finished and I nodded in understanding.

    The doctor¡¯s right, Khalid wasn¡¯t meant to be caught up in all of the games that Aisha had to y but he was merely a victim of circumstance.

    ¡°And Ava? Will she be fine?¡± I asked as I did nothing to hide my worry and fear of something bad happening to her.

    ¡°She¡¯s good,¡± those were the only words I needed from the doctor to be calm, ¡°she¡¯s resting now too although she still has a lot of bruises.¡± He added and I nodded again.

    The IV had finished and the doctor was sure that I was fine since they¡¯d only given that to me in the first ce so that I could sleep.

    Getting out of bed, I walked to the ICU to see Ava sleeping peacefully and I have never been so relieved in my life before. Sure that she¡¯s fine, I went to the children¡¯s ward to see Khalid also sleeping.

    It¡¯s been hours and all I¡¯ve been doing all day is juggling between the children¡¯s ward and the ICU. I decided to run my check on them again and I started with Ava.

    She was still sleeping and at this point I could swear that she¡¯s in aa because she hasn¡¯t even moved a finger. Sighing, I went to see Khalid and stayed with him for a while.

    ¡°Daddy.¡± I heard him call as his finger moved and at first I¡¯d thought I was seeing things until he called again and opened his eyes.

    ¡°You¡¯re awake!¡± I smiled as I stared at Khalid before hugging him tightly, ¡°I am so sorry.¡± I apologized.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry you had to see all of that and I promise you right now that I will never leave your side.¡± I assured him with a smile that he returned.

    ¡°Where is my mommy?¡± He asked and I pinched down on the bridge of my nose as I thought of things to tell him.

    ¡°For now, forget about your mommy and just focus on being well. You need it, champ.¡± I joked but his horror grew deeper.

    ¡°Please daddy, don¡¯t let her go to jail. I heard bad things happen to people there and they put them on this bad chair, please don¡¯t let it happen to mommy.¡± Khalid cried and I opened my mouth to console him but he didn¡¯t want to hear what I had to say.

    Yawning, he still didn¡¯t stop begging me to not press charges and hurt his mum and with no other knowledge of how to console him, I watched as he cried himself to sleep.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    If only he knew the magnitude of what his mother had done he wouldn¡¯t be begging for her to go unpunished. I can¡¯t just decide to let her go free.

    THREE DAYS LATER.

    Ava finally woke up and I didn¡¯t waste any time in informing Nicole and our parents since they all knew about everything already and cing them on hold was something I just couldn¡¯t do.

    Walking back into the ward with a te of food with me, Ava told me she was hungry so I decided to make a light meal for her.

    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re fine.¡± I muttered as I fed her and cleaned the drool on the side of her lip. She winced because I¡¯d touched one of her bruises.

    She was still eating when the door opened and Ryan, Nicole and their baby girl entered the room. Nicole immediately rushed to her best friend¡¯s side not caring if I stood there.

    ¡°You¡¯re okay.¡± She snuggled as she hugged Ava but soon released her when she let out a sound of difort.

    ¡°Why would you let a scrawny bitch take you down without even putting up a fight?¡± She asked with the tears in her eyes as she slightly tapped Ava.

    I knew how much they loved each other and seeing Ava like this wouldn¡¯t be easy for Nicole but like me, Nicole was d her best friend was fine.

    ¡°You broke your promise too,¡± she continued and I raised an eyebrow, I wanted to know what they were both talking about.

    ¡°You told me the next news I would get would be about you getting married to Mason.¡± She finished and my eyes widened, I wasn¡¯t expecting that. She was too emotional to realize that I was still standing there.

    Ryan and I left the room to give the women space to talk to each other and catch up.

    ¡°How did all of these happen?¡±

 Chapter 139

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Ryan¡¯s question made me live the whole moment again in my head and it was horrible. Sighing, I exined everything to him.

    I watched as his expressions changed with each scene that I described and soon his shock and fear became really visible on his face.

    ¡°It really is crazy, I thought things like this only happened in movies. Never thought it even happens in the real world.¡± Hemented.

    ¡°You really should make sure she gets punished for this because what she did is just harsh and inhumane. Bad things could¡¯ve happened and not only Ava but you and the kid could¡¯ve been badly hurt.¡± He added and he was right.

    The right thing for me to do was to let Aisha be punished but what was I going to tell her son who was pleading on her behalf?

    I exined Khalid¡¯s situation to Ryan who felt pity for the child like anyone would. No kid should have to be punished by having a mother like Aisha.

    ¡°Khalid begging on her behalf doesn¡¯t matter. No one would tell him and that way he¡¯ll have no idea.¡± He advised me and I nodded in understanding and agreement to what he¡¯d just suggested.

    My dad and Ava¡¯s mother came in when Ryan and I were still talking and the first person I sought sce in was Ava¡¯s mother.

    The hug was warm and I felt really bad because everyone was gathered here at the hospital because something bad had happened.

    I¡¯d thought that the next time a gathering would happen would be for a good cause but this was way far from that.

    Releasing myself from her embrace, I hugged my dad who patted my back as he asked if I was alright and I nodded. I couldn¡¯t tell him that I felt bad, I felt ipetent because I could have avoided all of these and no one would¡¯ve been in danger.

    ¡°Take me to Khalid first please.¡± Ava¡¯s mom asked and I led her to the children¡¯s ward.

    We got to his bed and he was fast asleep. I watched as Ava¡¯s mom leaned closer to him to kiss his forehead and stroke his hair lightly before walking out with me.

    ¡°You know, you shouldn¡¯t beat yourself up so much because of all of these,¡± she started, ¡°not even you could stop this from happening, it was meant to happen.¡± She added and it was almost as if she could hear my thoughts.

    ¡°You should be happy everyone is fine,¡± she continued with a reassuring smile, ¡°don¡¯t feel guilty because really there are some things we have no control over and this instance is one of them. I know that if you could, you would have averted the whole thing but well, it is what it is.¡± She finished with a sigh.

    Her words were touching and she was right, all I¡¯ve been doing was ming myself and feeling guilty the whole time that I didn¡¯t think to be grateful that things didn¡¯t escte into something worse.

    ¡°Thank you for saving my daughter.¡± She added after a while of silence and something about the way she said that caused my heart to be heavier than it initially was.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d have done if something bad happened to her,¡± I started without holding myself back and let the tears fall freely.

    ¡°I should¡¯ve been there, I shouldn¡¯t have allowed Aisha to get so into our family and now Ava isying weak on that bed¡­¡± I sniffed before Ava¡¯s mum pulled me into her.

    Holding her tightly, I let out all of the tears I¡¯ve been holding back for days on her shoulder while she only held me and listened to all my broken self had to say until I had nothing more to say.

    ¡°How are you feeling now?¡± She asked with a sweet smile when I finally let go of her and I nodded positively.

    I felt better than four days ago, than the day I found out that Ava could be in danger and I was d that she was here for me to let my guard down and let it all out.

    We walked to Ava¡¯s ward and the happiness on her face when they saw each other was the highlight of my entire life.

    I was d the situation didn¡¯t take them away from one another.

    It was getting dark and the hospital didn¡¯t want many visitors lurking around because there were other patients who needed the hospital space to be silent.

    ¡°We have to go now,¡± I mentioned to Ava, ¡°but I promise to be back tomorrow before you know it.¡± I assured her as I kissed her hair.

    Nicole did the same thing but I just couldn¡¯t bring myself to leave the hospital with Ava watching me go so I decided we¡¯d wait till she and Khalid were asleep.

    When I was sure that Khalid and Ava were fast asleep, I finally got to leave the hospital and we all drove to my house for the night.

    Leaving Nicole, her daughter and Ava¡¯s mom inside the house, Ryan, my dad and I all took our beers out in the garden so we could catch up and get our minds off the things that had happened.

    We all talked andughed about things and I couldn¡¯t help but smile when my father spoke about how his world tour with Ava¡¯s mother was going.

    Ryan told us about being a father and I was d that I could also rte to everything. It felt really nice to finally have an atmosphere like this after a long time.

    Laughing, ¡°I can tell you that I¡¯ve been spending more than I ever thought I would with Nicole and her little doppelganger came into the picture.¡± Ryan said as he took a swig of his beer and we joined in.

    The night was one the best I¡¯ve had in a while as I was able to get my mind off Ava for a while. The police were still waiting for my final call and by then I will decide what to do with Aisha.

    But, she had to be punished.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 140

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I felt better and I couldn¡¯t be any more grateful that everything was over. The doctor thought I was fine enough to be discharged and I couldn¡¯t wait to get back home.

    Nicole took a leave of absence from her job so she could stay and take care of me and Khalid alongside my mother. I felt loved and grateful that I was able to experience this love again.

    We did everything like a family but despite being fine I was hurting, Mason was distant and I understood that he still med himself for what had happened.

    Seeing him in that kind of situation breaks my heart and all attempts to get him to be himself back proved futile.

    ¡°Goodnight.¡± He sighed before leaving the dining room and my eyes followed him up the stairs. I¡¯d wanted to go with him but I figured that he needed some time to heal.

    He would go to bed early and wake up even earlier to go to work and by the time I¡¯m up Mason would be nowhere to be found. We also didn¡¯t have enough time to talk to each other during the day because we both get busy with the men and women.

    The day went by quicker than I expected and everyone including me retired to bed. Tossing and turning on the bed, I couldn¡¯t sleep because Mason wasn¡¯t with me.

    Groaning, I stood from the bed to look for him but he wasn¡¯t anywhere in the house. Giving up, I was about to go back to the bedroom when I heard a melodious sound.

    Following the sound, I found Mason ying the guitar and humming along to what he was ying. Smiling, I joined and sang along with him.

    It was beautiful, he ys so beautifully and I missed seeing him y except this time he looked stressed as if something bothered him.

    The wide smile on his face when he heard my voice was the highlight of my night and soon we were both singing. I¡¯d heard the song too well from him to an extent that the lyrics just stuck to my head.

    After we were done singing, I carefully took the guitar from him and ced it on the floor before sitting on hisp. Moving the hair on his face to the side, I nted a kiss on his lips.

    ¡°Why have you been so distant?¡± I asked and he sighed as he moved his hand up and down my back.

    ¡°Because of all of this,¡± he sighed, ¡°everyone might¡¯ve forgiven me but I just can¡¯t forgive myself. I caused all of this.¡± He exined and I could hear the hurt in his voice.

    ¡°If I¡¯d had a little bit of self-control, if I¡¯d been able to keep my dick in my pants then all of these wouldn¡¯t have happened.¡± He finished.

    Mason was beating himself up for something he couldn¡¯t have controlled and that was when I remembered what Aisha said to me when she abducted me.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°You know, it¡¯s not entirely your fault. There was nothing you could do.¡± I started and Mason raised an eyebrow in confusion probing me to exin further.

    ¡°You were drunk and like that wasn¡¯t enough, she drugged you. You were really vulnerable and shame on her for taking advantage of that.¡± I spat, my anger building inside me as I remembered everything again.

    ¡°How do you know all these?¡± He asked.

    ¡°She told me, it¡¯s not your fault. She had it all nned out already and you just happened to be where she wanted you when she wanted you.¡± I exined and I could see his eyes zing with anger.

    ¡°That bitch! She¡¯s going to rot in jail, I¡¯ll make sure of that.¡± He said through gritted teeth and I only ced my hand on his chest as my finger trailed on it.

    ¡°Don¡¯t act on your anger, we should think about Khalid before making any decision, please.¡± I advised him and he nodded positively.

    We stared at the stars for a while before deciding to go to bed and that was the first time since everything had happened that Mason and I would go to bed at the same time.

    I couldn¡¯t help the smile that formed on my face when he clutched me closer to him.

    ****

    Mason and I prepared to go to the police station to see Aisha. It¡¯s been a week since she was arrested and put behind bars and we needed to be interrogated. I also wanted to know why.

    I wanted to know why she did what she did from drugging Mason to attempting to kill me.

    ¡°You!¡± Aisha snarled the moment she saw me and fear gripped me, ¡°you¡¯re alive.¡± She added and I could tell that she was shocked to see me alive.

    ¡°Surprise.¡± I smiled at her and that irritated her so much because she attempted to pounce on me but thanks to the cuff she was restrained and couldn¡¯t do anything.

    Mason and I both gave our statements and we made sure that Khalid gave his too and brought it with us to the police station. Khalid was doing well now but Mason couldn¡¯t afford to bring him.

    We both didn¡¯t want him to see his mother in this kind of state when she was looking like a hungry beast that¡¯s ready to attack.

    The statements were submitted along with the files as that would enable us to be able to take the case to court because Mason said that was what he would do. He wanted to make sure that Aisha pays for all the damages she¡¯d caused.

    After he¡¯d spoken to one of the officers for a while, Aisha was asked to move so she¡¯d be taken back behind bars and Mason and I prepared to leave.

    ¡°You little bitch!¡± Aisha yelled and I couldn¡¯t help but turn to look at her and she was staring at me with disdain that I could feel the negative energy.

    ¡°Have some shame and stop moving around and fucking your own brother!¡± She added and my chest tightened in hurt.

 Chapter 141

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I¡¯d tried to push Aisha¡¯s voice to the back of my head never to be remembered again but it seemed like I¡¯d lost my ability to forget things because her words kept ringing in my head and with each time I seem to hear it, it stings more than thest time I heard it.

    Mason drove to a restaurant since we haven¡¯t really had anything to eat today. I was lost in my own thoughts that I had no idea when he ced the order.

    Our food came and I realized that he¡¯d ordered my favorite but I¡¯d already lost my appetite to eat so I just twirled my fork on my te as I kept thinking about what Aisha said.

    ¡°Living without you was hell and it¡¯s something that I never want to happen again, I was lost and that¡¯s how I feel when I get even the slightest bit separated from you.¡± Mason started and I forced out a smile.

    He told me everything that happened when I was absent and how Aisha had tried to seduce him too and that was when I knew that Khalid was the one who¡¯d ratted his mother out to Mason.

    ¡°She¡¯s crazy, I tell you. She had a gun to Khalid¡¯s head and threatened to kill him.¡± He exined and I listened to every word as I let my mes of anger lick through me.

    My body vibrated and I knew that it wasn¡¯t just because of what she said at the police station but the fact that she seduced Mason and threatened to kill her own son.

    What kind of mother would do something like that?

    ¡°We should make sure that she gets the sentence she deserves. She doesn¡¯t even deserve to see the light of another day.¡± I snarled through gritted teeth before controlling myself.

    I didn¡¯t mean it that way and I was only speaking out of anger and that was when I realized that I¡¯d almost leave my seat and Mason was looking at me with wide eyes.

    ¡°Oh, I didn¡¯t mean it like that,¡± I muttered as I sat back, ¡°what I meant was she shouldn¡¯t be given another chance to hurt us or any other people again.¡± I exined and Mason nodded.

    ¡°You are the green light I¡¯ve been waiting for and I¡¯ll do just as you¡¯ve said.¡± He assured me with a smile that I reluctantly returned.

    What is going on with me? I was letting my anger take the best part of me.

    Quietly, I ate the little I could out of my food before Mason and I made our way to the car. Getting in, I ced my head on the window so that I could look outside.

    ¡°Ava?¡± I heard Mason call and the way his hand gently slipped on my thigh jolted me out of my thoughts as I turned to look at him.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Are you okay?¡± He asked in a low tone that made my heart melt.

    ¡°I¡¯m not,¡± I finally replied after a while of thinking and silence, ¡°Aisha is right.¡± I added and he raised one of his eyebrows.

    ¡°What do you mean? What is she right about?¡± He probed.

    ¡°She¡¯s right about us being siblings, we shouldn¡¯t be doing this, don¡¯t you get it? Everywhere I go now I keep hearing that same voice in my head telling me that what we¡¯re doing is all shades of wrong.¡± I exined with a sigh as I shifted away from him.

    ¡°We¡¯re not siblings, Ava,¡± Mason responded before abruptly stopping the car on the free road so he could talk to me properly.

    ¡°I love you. That¡¯s all that matters and we shouldn¡¯t pay any heed to anyone or Aisha for that matter,¡± he continued, ¡°we¡¯re not even real siblings and just because our parents are married doesn¡¯t mean we shouldn¡¯t give each other a chance.¡± He added.

    ¡°I Love you so much and I don¡¯t care what anyone else says, I will always love you.¡± He assured me with a smile and for the first time in a while I felt better.

    Staring into his beautiful eyes, I leaned in to kiss him and he met me just at the point that I needed him to. His lips trailed from my lips down to my neck and I couldn¡¯t hold back the moan that escaped my mouth.

    I missed him so much, his touch and the way he made me feel. Every touch of his finger left me yearning for more and I couldn¡¯t wait to have him inside me.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get home.¡± Mason smirked as he continued the drive with his other hand on my thigh, trailing it up and down and I could feel the drip between my legs.

    We got to the house and everywhere was silent, Mason picked me up and carried me bridal style to our room.

    Gentlyying me on the bed, he stripped me of my clothes and the prolonged anticipation of him inside me was something I couldn¡¯t hold back anymore.

    The touch of his hand was suddenly almost unbearable in its tenderness, I could feel his uneven breathing on my neck as he gave it a slight bite and lick that made me arch.

    He was so gentle with me as he reimed my lips and ced his weight on me and I could feel his dick pressed against me just below my abdomen.

    His tongue flickered on my nipples, causing it to get more swollen and stimted than it already was as his fingers caressed my pussy, moisturizing it.

    The thought of his dick inside me almost sent me over the edge, thrusting his hips and separating my thighs gently.

    Mason¡¯s cock sank into the cleft between my thighs sending me into multiple spirals of pleasure as a breathy moan and gasp left my mouth.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    wing at his back, I knew he was gentle with me because I was still healing but I wanted more, more than just his rhythmic and slow fuck.

    Pulling him so he crashed into me, ¡°Faster.¡± I whispered into his ear.

 Chapter 142

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°I just can¡¯t wait for that bitch to get a life imprisonment.¡± Nicole snarled as she told me and I yfully hit her hand.

    ¡°She deserves to be punished and I¡¯m d she¡¯ll finally get her punishment and that will hopefully help her change.¡± I sighed as Nicole shot me a re.

    ¡°Change my ass, she should be sentenced to death by hanging¡± She added with a eye roll that made my jaw drop.

    ¡°NICOLE!¡±

    ¡°What? I¡¯m just saying.¡± She immediately replied and we bothughed.

    It¡¯s been a week and Aisha would finally be charged to court. I couldn¡¯t wait for her to finally get what she deserved.

    It was a stressful week because Khalid also had to go back to school and we had to move his things away from Aisha¡¯s apartment to Mason¡¯s so he now lived with us and I couldn¡¯t be happier about the fact that he¡¯s finally free from the abuse of Aisha.

    ¡°Will you be okay?¡± My mother asked and I nodded my head positively as she hugged me. Pulling away from her, I went to hug Danny who nted a kiss on my forehead.

    They¡¯re leaving for New Orleans but I¡¯m grateful for the fact that they stayed till they were sure that I was strong enough.

    The week was hectic but I¡¯m at least happy that I had a lot of people who loved and cared about me so much.

    Ryan left because he needed to take care of business and he kept getting orders that needed his attention but Nicole stayed with me although she would be leaving soon.

    Needing to get my mind off the stress, I decided to read a book because I couldn¡¯t go back to work due to the scars on my body from all the burns Aisha inflicted on me.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the coffee shop,¡± Nicole suggested as she sunk in the couch beside me, taking my book away from me, ¡°you¡¯ve stayed too much in the house that I¡¯m beginning to mistake you for one of the furniture.¡± She added.

    ¡°I don¡¯t feel like and you know, being a furniture really isn¡¯t that bad, you just stay there and no one can hurt you so much that you¡¯ll get scared of showing your own face outside.¡± I sighed before snapping my book back from her.

    ¡°C¡¯mon! It¡¯s not even that bad and you really need to start making your day eventful so I insist on going to the coffee shop whether you like it or not.¡± She said firmly.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    After a while of back and forth with Nicole, I finally agreed to go to the coffee shop with her. I finished getting ready and we made our way to the nearest one.

    Everywhere we went it seemed like people were staring at me and soon they began to crawl under my skin, making me ufortable.

    ¡°Is it just me or are people staring way too much like they¡¯re judging?¡± I whispered to Nicole as we took our seats and even she could notice the heap of eyes on us.

    ¡°Don¡¯t care about¡­¡± she was still talking when my phone chimed and that was when I knew that news about me having an affair with my stepbrother had broken the inte.

    It was no wonder that people are staring, they¡¯re probably judging. This can only be Aisha¡¯s doing.

    Shrugging them off and trying to act like it didn¡¯t bother me, Nicole and I talked over coffee and soon we made our way back home.

    ****

    The day for Aisha¡¯s court verdict finally came and Mason, Nicole and I got to the courtroom as everywhere was silent.

    After hearing from Mason and also the people Aisha had presented as her witnesses who are also an ally, she was finally sentenced to forty year¡¯s imprisonment.

    ¡°Or, you can choose to pay the sum of five hundred million dors for your bail.¡± The judge affirmed before hitting the gavel on the sound block indicating his final judgement.

    ¡°They should be in prison too, they¡¯re siblings and engaging in incest!¡± Aisha kept yelling as she was dragged away.

    She called me lots of foul names but Mason and Nicole was there to help me keep my mind calm and not go crazy.

    The murmurs in the courtroom increased when Aisha yelled out that Mason and I are in an illicit rtionship. At the verge of tears, I looked around to see everyone pulling out their phones and it was no doubt that they were checking the news online,

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Mason whispered to me as he and Nicole helped me up and we both went to see thewyer who helped us with the case.

    ¡°Thank you so much, Mr Ethan.¡± Mason started as he shook the man¡¯s hand. We stood as Mason and thewyer talked for a while and they also decided to take legal actions against those posting the news online.

    ¡°We¡¯ll definitely find them and they also have to pay. We¡¯ll sue them, it¡¯s a personal business and they have no right to make things like that go viral online but I assure you that we¡¯ll set things straight.¡± Mr Ethan assured Mason who shook his hand again with a nod.

    ¡°I¡¯ll pay any amount, I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to make sure that they¡¯re brought to book.¡± Mason responded with a sigh before wrapping his arm around my shoulder.

    ¡°They¡¯ll definitely be brought to book.¡± He assured us and the men talked for a while as I looked around, the stares still hadn¡¯t stopped and at that moment I wished the ground would open up and swallow me while probably spit me out back when things have finally died down.

    ¡°Thanks again.¡± Mason¡¯s voice jolted me out of my thoughts as thewyer entered his car and drove off while we all made our way to Mason¡¯s car.

    ¡°Dinner at the steakhouse?¡± Mason asked and No one agreed with a shriek while I tried to force out a smile as Mason drove to dinner.

 Chapter 143

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Mason had to give me another weekend off work because he still thinks I¡¯m not strong enough to start working and even though I¡¯m strong enough I knew that I needed the break because of the stares I get anytime I step out.

    Trying to get my mind off everything, I started working on the files that Mason had given me to work on at home. It was fun getting to work again and I was d.

    My phone chimed and I almost choked on my spit when I saw the huge sum of money that had been deposited into my bank ount. The description stated that it was a weekend bonus but it was so much money.

    Smiling, I called him and at first he didn¡¯t pick up and I knew that it was because he already knew that I was calling to say thank you to him.

    ¡°Why did you have to let me call twice?¡± I asked when he finally picked up as I feigned to be mad.

    ¡°Because I know what you¡¯re about to say and you can save both of us a lot of time if you don¡¯t just say it.¡± Heughed and I joined in.

    ¡°It¡¯s really so much money and you didn¡¯t have to,¡± I started, ¡°thank you so much.¡± I finished and I just knew that he was rolling his eyes at me.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, you deserve that and more,¡± He responded, ¡°I love you.¡± He added before hanging up the call.

    I finished with my work and got ready because I¡¯d already decided to take Nicole and Khalid out today already.

    ¡°So, who wants to eat ice cream and lots of junk food?¡± I asked and I could see the excited glint in Khalid¡¯s eyes as they lit up.

    ¡°You know I have a sweet tooth but we really can¡¯t just take ice cream and junk¡­¡± Nicole suggested and I agreed with her.

    I decided that we were going to a restaurant first before going to the ice cream parlor and probably the park too since it¡¯s been a while since I had so much fun.

    Driving to the restaurant, I couldn¡¯t help but notice the way everyone stared at me but I was able to shrug it off and not give it a thought because Nicole and Khalid were there to cheer me up.

    We finished eating and went to the ice cream parlor where we got our ice creams before finally going to the park.

    We all decided to go for a walk and it felt as though people were watching me, I turned to see some people following me and my heart skipped a beat.

    Maybe they aren¡¯t really following me and I¡¯m just overreacting.

    Shrugging them off, we chose a spot to sit and have our Ice cream. It was a fun filled day but sometimes I feel like the people around were stopping me from having as much fun as I wanted to but regardless, it was still fun.

    ¡°Excuse me?¡± I heard an unfamiliar voice say as a man walked up to me while I was still eating my Ice cream.

    ¡°Can I help you?¡± I asked with a raised eyebrow and I had no idea who he was until he brought out his phone to record what I wanted to say and also a pen and paper. He¡¯s a reporter.

    ¡°Yes, you can actually,¡± he responded almost immediately as he got ready to take my statement, ¡°can you tell me more about the rtionship between you and Mason?¡± He asked and I could swear that my ice cream went down the wrong pipe.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about.¡± I coughed, trying to y dumb and hope that the reporter would leave me alone.

    ¡°Oh really?¡± He asked and it was almost as if he was mocking me as he pulled out another phone to show me pictures of Mason and I at a restaurantughing and also having fun at other ces.

    ¡°You have no idea what this is about?¡± He asked again and I was starting to feel ufortable, ¡°words on the street has it that you¡¯re both siblings, is that true? Is it true that you¡¯re having a sexual rtionship with your brother?¡± The question became too much that my head started to bang.

    ¡°Let¡¯s leave, Nicole.¡± I muttered loud enough for Nicole to hear me and without thinking about it, she helped me out of the situation with me holding Khalid as we all rushed into the car.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    Nicole decided to drive and soon we were home. I couldn¡¯t believe that Khalid also had to experience that and it hurts me so much.

    Without saying another word, I walked into the bedroom and decided to tell Mason so I can tell him about what happened earlier today.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to experience that.¡± He apologized like he also isn¡¯t going through the same thing. I knew that he was, but he¡¯s only trying to hide it from me.

    *****

    Tired of having to be at home all day, I decided that I was going to go to the store to pick up some groceries and also buy some things for myself.

    Like yesterday, I got approached by another reporter who had been persistent since I entered the store and wouldn¡¯t leave me alone.

    ¡°LEAVE ME THE HELL ALONE!¡± I yelled as my breathing and walking style paced, I had no idea what else to do especially since he wouldn¡¯t leave me alone.

    ¡°You heard thedy, leave her alone.¡± I let out a breath of relief when an unfamiliar man helped me out of the situation.

    At this point I would be indebted to anything and anyone that helps me from the reporters because they were already driving me crazy.

    ¡°Thank you so much.¡± I let out when the reporter finally left and the man shrugged as he told me not to mention it.

    I introduced myself to him and he did the same as we both exchanged contacts before I went home.

    ¡°Mason!¡± I cried into the phone when he answered, ¡°I don¡¯t think I can handle this.¡±

 Chapter 144

    Mason¡¯s POV

    It¡¯s been a crazy week and I¡¯d thought of taking Khalid to the beach for some fun since Ava said she wasn¡¯t feeling too good so she couldn¡¯te with us.

    Ava¡¯s call got me worried and I knew that she was at the point of breaking down with the way her voice broke as she spoke.

    ¡°It¡¯s too much, Mason and I don¡¯t know how long I¡¯ll be able to handle it for,¡± she continued as she sniffled and I knew that she was already crying.

    My heart broke and the fact that I was far from home didn¡¯t make matters any better as I listened to all she had to say.

    ¡°I can¡¯t go out without the reporters in my face or people looking at me and judging me.¡± She finished.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯ll do something about it.¡± I assured her before hanging up and I immediately called my security team head.

    ¡°Get somepetent men, make sure to interview them and be sure that they¡¯ll be able to do the job,¡± I started as soon as he picked up the call.

    ¡°What job sir?¡± He asked.

    ¡°Being around Ava. The pressure is getting too much for her and I need them to be able to keep the reporters away from her and to also be sure that she doesn¡¯t get harmed.¡± I exined.

    After a while of talking with the head of my security team. I hung up the call and decided to give Khalid the attention he¡¯s been wanting.

    While Khalid and I were building a sand castle my phone rang and when I checked the caller ID, it was my publicist.

    The fact that he¡¯s calling at a time like this is bound to be bad news. Reluctantly, I picked up the call and without letting me talk first he immediately told me what was going on.

    ¡°Pictures of you and Ava are about to go live and alongside your address too.¡± He started and my mouth dropped open as I sprung up, ruining the sandcastle we were building.

    ¡°What do you mean about going live?¡± I asked him, confused and still wondering who would want to do something like that since Aisha was still in jail.

    ¡°Stop them, do not allow it,¡± I continued, ¡°Ava is in so much pressure already and I¡¯m not home at the moment to help her through this. Whatever you have to do, do it and make sure it doesn¡¯t go live.¡± I finished before hanging up abruptly.

    Worried, I called Ava but she wasn¡¯t picking up and all efforts to try and reach her proved futile.

    AVA¡¯S POV

    Rxing at home, I tried to watch a movie since I couldn¡¯t concentrate on my work. I got so engrossed in the movie that I didn¡¯t want to look away until I heard a knock on the door.

    I¡¯d thought it was Mason and Khalid and the fact that they were knocking sounded funny to me. Groaning, I paused the movie as I stood to answer the door.

    ¡°You know you don¡¯t have to kn¡­¡± I was saying when I opened the door and a white light shed across my eyes. The lights were persistent and they didn¡¯t stop and as if that wasn¡¯t enough, there were a lot of people at the front.

    My heart beat thrummed and I could hear it beating as if it was about to jump out of my chest. My breathing was slow and soon the air began to seem choking to me as I garnered all of my strength to lock the door.

    Leaning against the door, I closed my eyes to try and get myself to breathe properly while also praying that the reporters leave soon.

    I knew that they were from different TV and radio stations but I had no idea how they were able to get our address since Mason made sure that no one knew where we lived.

    Choking, I didn¡¯t stop the tears froming out as the loud bang on the door and the yelling of mine and Mason¡¯s name.

    Everything was making me go crazy and my head started to feel light as the house looked like it was turning upside down.

    The banging and yells became louder each time and I just couldn¡¯t stop it, ¡°make it stop, please.¡± I pleaded to no one in particr until I heard footsteps.

    The noise downstairs had interrupted Nicole¡¯s sleep and I knew just how precious her sleep was to her. She looked really mad and without thinking she opened the door swiftly and stepped out.

    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you people?!¡± She yelled angrily at the reporters, ¡°you have 20 seconds to leave or I¡¯m suing the channels you work for!¡± She threatened beforeing back into the house.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    Even her threat wasn¡¯t enough to keep the reporters from yelling, they were adamant on staying and getting their full story.

    Fidgeting, I tried to call Mason and that was when I knew that he¡¯d called me already and I missed his call twice.

    ¡®Come home soon, the reporters are here and I¡¯m getting scared.¡¯

    I dropped the text for him and although it sounded like I was a child, I knew Mason would take it seriously.

    Not long after, I heard the revving sound of his car and I looked out the window to see himing out of the car with Khalid and lots of other men.

    The men were able to get the reporters out of the way and away from the building and I couldn¡¯t be any more grateful.

    When Mason got inside, he rushed to hug me and I was d that he¡¯s home, ¡°I¡¯ll sue them. I promise.¡± He whispered into my hair as he kissed it.

    I feel better now knowing that he¡¯s home and there were other security men around the house to stop the reporters froming back.

    My phone rang and it was an unknown number, for a moment I¡¯d thought that it would be one of the reporters so I reluctantly picked it, promising to hang up if it¡¯s one of them.

    ¡°Hi. It¡¯s Chad.¡± The familiar voice came and I let out a sigh of relief. It was the man who helped me at the store.

    ¡°I was just checking on you and I also wanted to ask if you¡¯ll be free to meet up some time?¡± He asked.

    ¡°Sure, just let me know.¡± I agreed with a smile.

 Chapter 145

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Making my way to work this morning was like fighting past swarms of bees. I was swarmed by the media at the front door with their cameras shing in my face and demanding that I talk about the whole scandal.

    My blood boiled and I couldn¡¯t believe how much damage that Aisha had done, she¡¯s the reason all of these have been happening and the thought of it caused a surge of anger to rush through me again.

    She was no longer here and yet she¡¯s able to cause this much ruckus. My men finally got them out of the way and I drove to work.

    Mypany was no different and it was as if they had been waiting for me to get to work. Angrily, I ordered my men to get them out of the way by hook or crook and soon the entrance was empty.

    Sighing, I sank into my chair as I tried to clear my head so that I¡¯ll be able to work. My head was aching and I was d that I usually have pain relievers in my drawer.

    Taking two tablets, my phone rang and I was happy to see that it was from a business associate. I¡¯d thought that it was going to be good news until I picked it up.

    ¡°What the hell, Mason?!¡± His anger filled voice met me as soon as I picked up the call and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what had happened for him to be so angry.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, is anything the matter?¡± I enquired, confused as to why a business associate that¡¯s always in a good mood anytime he calls me is now in a horrible mood.

    ¡°I was about to go through the file you sent to me only to discover that it was corrupted with Virus,¡± he exined and my jaw dropped.

    I¡¯d made sure to double check the file, howe it¡¯s now corrupted?

    ¡°It almost took out my workputer, I was lucky that I had an antivirus to fight against it or things would¡¯ve been worse. I could¡¯ve lost important things and my workputer could¡¯ve been fried.¡± His voice put a halt to my thoughts and I had no idea what to say.

    ¡°I am so sorry,¡± I apologized, still confused, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, I¡¯ll rectify that and send a new one.¡± I apologized again and I was lucky that he understood or it would¡¯ve be something else.

    Confused, I quickly sent a new file to him and I made sure that this one wasn¡¯t corrupted already.

    Resting my back against the ergonomic chair, I couldn¡¯t help but keep wondering who could¡¯ve been behind all of this.

    Who could dislike me so much to an extent that they would try to sabotage my work and ruin what I¡¯ve spent years trying to build up.

    It was all so confusing and shocking because I didn¡¯t think that I would possibly have any work rted enemies.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    The day went by quickly and I was d, everyone except Ava was asleep by the time I got home and she was worried as to why I came homete.

    ¡°What took you so long?¡± She asked, kissing me as she pulled off my jacket and helped me drop it in theundry basket.

    I exined everything that happened at work to her and she could sense that I wasn¡¯t in the best mood.

    ¡°Who has two hands and can light up your mood?¡± She asked andughing, she pointed to herself, ¡°this woman.¡± She finished as she pulled me up and we both walked to the bathroom.

    ¡°I love that confidence.¡± I smiled, kissing her andying down so she could wash my hair for me since that was what she¡¯d decided.

    We finished taking a shower and Ava thought to give me a head massage, it was soothing and my throbbing head stopped but something else kicked.

    ¡°You¡¯ve awakened the beast.¡± Iughed as I dragged her off me and on the bed while I put my weight on top of her.

    She looks really beautiful.

    Leaning into her, I kissed her forehead and then her lip before kissing her neck, her body arched and she let out a slight moan that drove me crazy.

    Sucking on one of her nipples while I fiddled with the other, she stroked my dick and soon, my shaft found its way inside her as I fucked her.

    She tugged on the bedsheet and her toe curled as she vibrated beneath me, my eyes closed tightly as I also released my already built up cum.

    Tired, I held her tightly and soon the darkness engulfed me.

    ****

    The ring sound of my phone ringing jolted me awake. Picking it up, it was my secretary and she just told me that there was a problem.

    ¡°Fix it.¡± I groaned into the phone and I¡¯d wanted to hang up when she stopped me.

    ¡°It¡¯s not something I can fix, Sir. You need to be here, it¡¯s urgent.¡± She sounded scared and hurriedly, I jumped out of bed to get ready.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± I asked when I got to the office and I could see the fear written all over her face as she swallowed the moment she saw me.

    ¡°Huge sum of money is missing, Sir,¡± she started and I raised an eyebrow in confusion as I probed her to exin further.

    ¡°Someone took ten million dors from thepany¡¯s ount. Did you authorize that?¡± She asked and what she¡¯d just said now sounded like someone had hit me on my chest right where it hurts.

    ¡°What do you mean did I authorize it?¡± I asked as I hurriedly pulled my phone out to call the bank since I knew that I didn¡¯t agree to the withdrawal of that amount from the ount.

    ¡°Why would you approve that kind of transaction?¡± I yelled into the phone when my ount manager picked up.

    ¡°The person came with a check and your signature was on it, there was no way we couldn¡¯t approve it.¡± He exined.

    ¡°Can a reversal be made? Is there a way to get it back?¡± I asked.

    ¡°No, Sir.¡±

 Chapter 146

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Who could¡¯ve done this to me?

    Angrily, I made sure that I wrote all of the ounting team¡¯s dismissal letter by myself because I have no idea how they could make such a grave mistake only because they saw my signature.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you know that signatures could be forged?! You could¡¯ve checked with me first before¡­¡± thinking there was no point inpleting my statement since the deed has been done already, I hung up the call.

    Pacing around my office trying to think of what to do next, I remembered there was a time my previouspany needed a private investigator.

    Putting a call through to him, I exined everything to him from the leaking of pictures to the disappearance of funds and he understood.

    When I was sure that he would do everything without a w, we signed the contract and I hired him. Sinking into the ergonomic chair, I sighed as I pinched down hard on my nose.

    Hopefully the culprit would be caught before any more damage would be done.

    AVA¡¯S POV

    It waste afternoon and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that Mason would be workingte today. While waiting for him, I tidied the house and did some menial cleaning.

    ¡°Ava!¡± Khalid¡¯s scream made me jump a little bit as he threw himself at me and I couldn¡¯t help theughter that escaped my mouth.

    ¡°You scared me.¡± I nudged him before patting his back lightly and heughed too as he told me that he intended to scare me.

    His excitement to see me was boldly written all over his face since he wouldn¡¯t stop following me around and he¡¯d even helped me with the dishes.

    When we were done cleaning, I helped him with his assignment and soon he was telling me about how his day at school went and that was how I got to learn all about his favorite teacher.

    ¡°Is daddying home soon?¡± He asked while I dished the food and I shook my head lightly before having my seat.

    ¡°Daddy is workingte today,¡± I told him and he nodded in understanding as he ate his food happily, ¡°I miss having dinner with my daddy, too.¡± I sighed.

    I had no idea that I¡¯d said it out loud until I lifted my gaze to see that Khalid had stopped eating, ¡°what?¡± I asked with a raised eyebrow.

    ¡°You miss having dinner with your dad?¡± He repeated after me, that was when I knew that I was thinking out loud and I nodded.

    ¡°Is Grandpa Danny not your daddy?¡± He asked and I shook my head, his eyes widened a little and I knew that he wanted me to exin further.

    ¡°Grandpa Danny is your daddy¡¯s dad and not mine,¡± I tried to exin but he still looked confused, ¡°my real father is dead and Danny is just like a father figure.¡± I exined and he looked slightly less confused.

    ¡°And I love him so much just like my real dad.¡± I smiled as Khalid returned my smile with a wide one of his.

    ¡°I love my daddy too.¡± He said happily and I smiled as I stroked his hair.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you do.¡± I responded.

    The evening went by quickly and Khalid was sure to beg for extra time so he could see his favorite cartoon before going to bed and I agreed but it seemed like he was starting to take advantage of it.

    ¡°Please!¡± He begged, ¡°just one more cartoon and I promise I¡¯ll go to bed when I¡¯m done.¡± He added and I rolled my eyes because that¡¯s how he says.

    ¡°No!¡± I replied firmly, ¡°you said that when you wanted to watch that cartoon and you watched another one so no more, there¡¯s school tomorrow.¡± I added and he groaned as he closed his eyes.

    nting a kiss on his forehead, I turned to leave when I saw Mason behind me, he looked defeated and his shoulders were so tense that they revealed the intense amount of burden he carried.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± I asked and he only sighed as he walked to kiss Khalid on his forehead before we both turned to leave.

    ¡°You know he said he loves you today.¡± I told him what Khalid said but that didn¡¯t seem to do anything about his mood.

    Falling on the bed, Mason exined everything that happened at work today to me and I couldn¡¯t help but feel sorry for him.

    He looked so stressed and I knew that he wouldn¡¯t stop thinking about it and ways to catch the culprit. Without saying a word, I went to the bathroom to run a hot water bath for him.

    ¡°You need a shower.¡± I dragged him out of bed because he didn¡¯t want to and after much persuasion he finally went to have his bath and I could tell that he was a bit rxed when he got out.

    Laying on the bed, I massaged his head softly and he was unable to keep his eyes open. I stopped when I was sure that he was already asleep.

    *****

    Mason already left for work and I got Khalid ready for school, we got to his school and as usual I noticed some people staring at me but I paid no heed to them as I dropped him off.

    It seemed as though they were waiting for me to drop him off beforeing to attack me, ¡°seducer!¡± I heard one of them call and, shocked, I turned to see a lot of reporters behind me.

    ¡°How does someone date and have sex with their own sibling,¡± another said to her fellow reporter and I could feel my head pounding.

    ¡°She¡¯s a whore.¡± Another responded and I tried so hard to get away from them but they already caged me in their midst with camera lights shing on my face.

    Trying to run away from them, one of the reporters hit me with his camera so I could get back in the middle and I did except all I could see around me was total darkness.

 Chapter 147

    Mason¡¯s POV

    I had to leave for work early because the head of the security team had told me that we needed to do a two step verification Incase someone wanted to break into thepany¡¯s server again.

    ¡°You know what to do, you put the passwords you want and only you would get to know it.¡± The head of the security team told me before leaving me to the devices.

    After thinking hard, I finally came up with a strong password that no one except Ava would know and even before she does she would have to do some critical thinking.

    Finally setting the two step verification up, I left the server room to my office when I heard a knock on my door and the secretary walked in.

    ¡°The investor is waiting for you in the conference room and from the look of it he doesn¡¯t have much time.¡± She exined and I sighed. I¡¯m not really cut out for any meeting for now but I knew that I had to go for this one.

    ¡°Stall him for like ten minutes but let him know that I¡¯ll be there soon, I have to do something.¡± I replied and with a nod she left me alone.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Opening up myptop, I replied to my mails and reconstructed the n in case the previous one wanted to be sabotaged.

    When I was finally done, I walked to the conference room to see the investor waiting for me. We got to talking about the business n and he was so interested in it.

    The ring sound of a phone ringing put a halt to our meeting as the investor pulled the phone out from his pocket.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I have to take this.¡± He whispered and I nodded positively for him to go as he excused himself.

    Still thinking about the strange things happening, I kept fiddling with my pen and a smile formed across my face when the investor walked back.

    ¡°Where is your assistant? Ava?¡± He asked when he got to me and the smile on my face immediately disappeared.

    ¡°She¡¯s at home, she¡¯s still taking a break because frankly she needs it¡­.¡± I was still talking when he pulled his phone out to my face.

    My brows furrowed as I saw a video of Ava being hit with a camera by the paparazzi and my anger flowed through my veins like electricity when she hit the ground in that video.

    ¡°It¡¯s trending.¡± The investor pointed out like I didn¡¯t already know that, my eyes left the phone as I lifted my gaze to look at him.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, I have to go.¡± I apologized and without saying anything else I ran out of the conference room.

    ¡°Cancel all the meetings I might be having for the rest of today and do not let anyone into my office.¡± I told the secretary when I got to the front desk.

    ¡°But Sir, it¡¯s important that you attend this¡­¡±

    ¡°Do you tell me what to do or I tell you what to do?¡± I cut in while she was still talking and silently she dropped her head.

    ¡°That¡¯s what I thought.¡± I breathed as I left thepany building.

    AVA¡¯S POV

    ¡°Where am I?¡± I sighed as I tried to sit up on the bed but the pounding on my head made me lie down back instantly.

    My vision was still blurry but it soon cleared and I tried to remember what might have happened to me. Thest thing I remembered was being in the midst of lots of cameras before I passed out.

    ¡°Ouch.¡± I winced when the nurse put the cotton wool that¡¯s drenched in methted spirit on my forehead and I gasped when I saw how soaked in the blood the cotton wool became.

    I must¡¯ve sustained that from when I fell down, ¡°sorry.¡± The nurse said softly and I smiled as I sat still while she dressed the wound.

    ¡°If we had wasted any more time then things would¡¯ve gotten worse.¡± The nurses were exining to me as I listened with wide eyes.

    They were still talking about it when the door flung open and Mason rushed in. I was d to see him and I couldn¡¯t help the smile that formed across my face as he hugged me.

    ¡°Leave us alone.¡± He ordered and without any arguments, the nurses left Mason and I alone in the ward.

    ¡°How are you?¡± He asked, he¡¯s so worried that I could hear it in his voice as his eyes scanned me for more injuries.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± I shrugged and he sighed as he hugged me again.

    ¡°I¡¯m really sorry for all of this, for putting your life in harm¡¯s way.¡± He apologized and I onlyughed.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be, I¡¯m good and the camera didn¡¯t even hit me that hard.¡± I joked but he looked really serious and not in the mood for my jokes as he pulled out his phone.

    ¡°Sue the media house that was responsible for Ava¡¯s injury.¡± He said into the phone before hanging up immediately.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, you really don¡¯t have to.¡± I let out but he was adamant on suing them and he told me that he had to because what if I was badly hurt.

    Just when we were talking the doctor walked in and Mason thanked him as he carried me in his arms. I tried to make him put me down but all of my efforts proved futile as he took me to his car and ignored the paparazzi.

    Driving us home, he carried me again andid me down gently on the bed before leaving. After a while, he came back with a bowl of soup.

    He fed it to me and I couldn¡¯t be any more grateful to have him. Smiling, I took the soup happily as he fed it to me.

    ¡°Lie down.¡± He smiled when I was done eating and he took my feet on hisp as he gave me a soothing foot rub.

 Chapter 148

    Mason¡¯s POV

    With everything happening around I had no idea how long I could hold on for before snapping because I was already a ticking time bomb.

    Sighing, I decided to meet the investor for the meeting we couldn¡¯t conclude the day before because of what had happened with Ava.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry about yesterday,¡± I apologized and he only nodded in understanding as he smiled, ¡°okay, let¡¯s start.¡± I finally started as I projected my idea.

    After talking for a while, I could tell that he was impressed with the idea I¡¯d pitched, ¡°I¡¯m making a promise to you that you really wouldn¡¯t regret this.¡± I assured with a smile as I turned to look at him.

    ¡°I¡¯m in.¡± He beamed and I couldn¡¯t help the wide smile that formed across my lips as I felt proud of myself and fulfilled because he¡¯s a difficult man to handle.

    ¡°I mean, the shares are juicy and you haven¡¯t disappointed me so far, so, I¡¯m doing this,¡± he continued, ¡°prepare the papers and have them sent to me so that I can sign.¡± He added as he extended his hand for a handshake.

    ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll prepare everything. Thank you so much.¡± I responded as I took his hand and soon he was out of the conference room while I made my way to my office.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    I sank into my chair as I threw my head back and let out a smile. I was trying to prepare the documents when my phone rang.

    Stopping all I was doing, I picked up the call and it was from the bank, ¡°Sir, someone just tried to withdraw the sun of ten million dors from thepany¡¯s ount.¡± She said and my jaw dropped.

    Who in the world will try that?

    ¡°It¡¯s definitely not from me so please do not authorize it,¡± I replied at once.

    ¡°Also, don¡¯t authorize any transaction if I¡¯m not there physically.¡± I added immediately before hanging up and I was d that they called me first because I had no idea why anyone would want thepany to go bankrupt.

    Sighing, I called the private investor to ask if he¡¯s gotten any lead on who might be pulling all of these stunts and his response came negative.

    AVA¡¯S POV

    ¡°I hate having to move stuff.¡± Nicole groaned as she struggled with a box and I onlyughed as I offered to help her.

    Nicole is moving back to San Francisco and we¡¯re moving her stuff to the car and she¡¯sined like a bazillion times already.

    ¡°Hey, Ava?¡± I heard a familiar voice call and I turned to see Chad. Happy to see him, I smiled as I walked up to him while he moved away from the group he was walking with.

    ¡°Why are you moving?¡± He asked, ¡°are you traveling?¡± He added before I could answer his first question and Iughed as I shook my head.

    ¡°No actually, I¡¯m still very much around,¡± I responded amidstughter, ¡°my friend is actually traveling so I¡¯m just helping her pack.¡± I exined and I could see his calm face.

    ¡°I¡¯ll help you.¡± He offered and before I could get the chance to protest Chad was already helping us pack things into the car.

    I looked in Nicole¡¯s direction and she gave me a look that I recognized really well, it¡¯s the look she gives whenever she needed me to say something about a guy and I only shook my head.

    ¡°He¡¯s just a friend.¡± I whispered as we both joined to help Chad with the rest of the boxes and soon we finished packing. It didn¡¯t take as much time as I thought that it would and it¡¯s all thanks to Chad.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I smiled as I tried to tuck the hair that was messing with my face at the back of my ear with a smile.

    ¡°Don¡¯t sweat it, I¡¯m happy to help,¡± he smiled, ¡°Also, would you like to have coffee with me?¡± He asked and I raised an eyebrow.

    I really wasn¡¯t expecting any form of invitation.

    ¡°N¡­¡±

    ¡°Yes, she will.¡± I was about to reject the offer when Nicole immediately agreed on my behalf and I turned to look at her in disbelief.

    ¡°I can drive to the airport by myself and when you¡¯re done you cane pick up the carter.¡± She smiled and since my friend already spilled all of these, I had to agree to the coffee.

    Laughing, Chad and I walked to the nearest coffee shop and soon we couldn¡¯t stop talking to each other. I find him interesting and we have a lot of things inmon too.

    ¡°Most guys I know enjoy ser.¡± Iughed and he shrugged before making a face that told me that he hates it and I couldn¡¯t help butugh.

    ¡°I mean, what¡¯s the point of getting attacked for a ball that gets kicked away at the end of the day?¡± Heughed and I couldn¡¯t agree more.

    He told me a lot about his childhood and I also opened up to him. I never thought that I would get this close to someone that I¡¯m only having coffee with for the first time.

    ¡°Things are more expensive now that we¡¯re adults.¡± Heughed as we talked about how a lot of things have changed since we were kids and I nodded as I took a sip of my coffee.

    We kept talking and I casually mentioned to him that I worked at Mason¡¯spany, ¡°but I¡¯m on a break for now.¡± I added and the way his mouth dropped open made me raise an eyebrow.

    ¡°There¡¯s no way,¡± he finally said, his eyes lightening up as he spoke, ¡°I work there too. I¡¯m in the ounting department.¡± He added and I was so d that I made a friend.

    I had no idea Chad also worked at Mason¡¯spany.

    ¡°That¡¯s really nice, I¡¯ll resume soon and we can have lunch together.¡± I smiled and he agreed. Looking at my wristwatch, I realized that it was time for me to leave.

    ¡°I have to go now.¡± I smiled and Chad walked me home, it was a pleasant walk and I looked forward to meeting him at work soon.

 Chapter 149

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I was d to be returning back to work and even d that I¡¯d made a new friend. Preparing for work, I dropped Khalid off at his school before making my way to thepany.

    The sight of the beautiful bouquet of roses on my table made me let out a slight gasp. I wasn¡¯t expecting him to give me such a wee.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Making my way to the table, I picked it up and inhaled it deeply as I let the sweet smell that came from it flood my nostrils and intoxicate me.

    ¡°He¡¯s so thoughtful.¡± I muttered as I ced it properly beside me. Mason has always been so romantic and now he just made my morning.

    While I was having my seat I saw a small card sticking out of the flower and I¡¯d thought it was a love note.

    My eyes widened when I saw who it was, I¡¯d thought it was Mason but it was Chad instead. Shrugging and not thinking of it as anything wrong, I ced it gently next to my desk before going back to work.

    Opening one of the files on my table, I sighed as I started working on it. I knew that I had tons of work to do and I just have to hope that I¡¯m able to catch up.

    ¡°Hey baby.¡± Mason¡¯s voice put a halt to my work and I lifted my gaze to see him smiling as he walked towards me.

    He looks really handsome.

    ¡°How are you doing?¡± He asked as he stopped at my table and I told him that I was fine, he doesn¡¯t need to check in on me. I¡¯ve recovered and I¡¯m learning to deal with the crazies out there.

    ¡°How do you feeling back to work?¡± He asked with the widest smile spreading from cheek to cheek and I let out a sigh of relief.

    ¡°Fine, really. I¡¯ve missed my workspace.¡± Iughed, Mason and I chatted for a while and I said something funny while heughed.

    ¡°That¡¯s pretty,¡± he pointed to the flowers as hisughter stopped abruptly, ¡°who are they from?¡± He asked, clearing his throat and I mentally pped myself.

    I¡¯d thought that I told Mason about Chad but I didn¡¯t and Ipletely forgot to mention it to him until now.

    ¡°It¡¯s from a friend,¡± I responded and Mason raised an eyebrow as he probed me to tell him more about my friend, ¡°his name is Chad and we met when the reporters tried to bully me, he helped me from them.¡± I exined.

    Mason listened keenly as I told him everything about Chad from when he helped me get away from the reporters to when he helped Nicole and I pack Nicole¡¯s stuff.

    ¡°Oh, then I better say a proper thanks when I meet him.¡± Mason smiled and I nodded, his phone rang and from the way he mouthed to me I knew it was an important call.

    Covering the mouthpiece of his phone, ¡°I have to go.¡± He muttered to me and I nodded in understanding as I watched him leave.

    The day went by really quickly and I had no idea it was lunch break until I saw the figure of someone hovering over me at my desk.

    ¡°It¡¯s lunch break, you need a break.¡± Chad pointed out and Iughed as I tried to round up what I was doing.

    ¡°I had no idea that time had gone this fast.¡± Iughed and soon we both walked to a ce where we could sit and eat.

    Chad had already brought lunch for me and I¡¯d wanted to think of it as a nice gesture as I appreciated him but he pulled out a small box in front of me while we were eating.

    ¡°Close your eyes.¡± He smiled, his eyes glinting with excitement. My eyes moved from his face to the small box and to his face again, I had no idea what was going on and it was all confusing but I closed my eyes anyways.

    I felt the coldness of steel on my chest and I already knew that it was a ne but why is he giving me a ne when we¡¯re just friends?

    ¡°It¡¯s beautiful,¡± I whispered when I opened my eyes and he was already holding a little mirror to my face. The ne had a small emerald in the middle and it was really beautiful.

    ¡°But I can¡¯t ept this.¡± I added as I tried to take the ne off. He must¡¯ve seen the news about Mason and I and Mason was his boss. Why then is he acting like this towards me when we¡¯re just friends?

    Finally pulling the ne off, I picked up his hand and ced it there gently, I saw his face fall and all the glint I once saw in his eyes disappeared as he walked away from me.

    I know he¡¯s sad and probably mad at me but it¡¯s for the best, there is no way I will collect a ne like that from someone I barely know.

    Time flew and soon I was rounding up myst task for the day while Mason waited for me. I finished up quickly to join him in the car and I smiled when he opened the door for me.

    On our way home, I wanted to tell Mason about what Chad did but I also didn¡¯t want to get him angry to an extent that he¡¯ll fire him.

    ¡°Something is bothering you, spill.¡± Mason¡¯s voice broke the silence in the car and I let out a sigh as I told him everything.

    I could see the anger in his eyes but he did a good job hiding it. We got home and the nanny that was supposed to be watching Khalid left as soon as we got home.

    ¡°You need to rx.¡± Mason whispered in my ear as his tongue trailed a path from my mouth down to my pussy lip and I couldn¡¯t help the moan that escaped my mouth as he ate me out.

 Chapter 150

    Ava¡¯s POV

    My day at home with Khalid wasn¡¯t boring, the boy is a sweet ball of sunshine and he assisted in every way that he could and I just knew that he will grow up to be a gentleman.

    ¡°I love you, Ava.¡± His voice made me move my head from the movie we were watching as I turned to look at him.

    My heart fluttered and my cheeks flushed from Khalid telling me that he loved me. I didn¡¯t expect that he would say it so randomly while we were watching a movie.

    ¡°And I Love you too, so much.¡± I groaned as I pulled him closer to me and held him tightly before kissing his head.

    ¡°I know you do.¡± He chuckled and I raised an eyebrow as I let out augh.

    ¡°That¡¯s pretty confident, how do you know that?¡± I asked.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°You cook for me on time, I¡¯m neverte to school and you pick me up early. You never beat me too.¡± He exined and my heart sank.

    My stomach tightened and I just knew that all that must¡¯ve been all Aisha used to do to him, ¡°where is my mommy?¡± He asked, his voice jolting me out of my thoughts as I let out a nervousugh.

    I could tell that he still loves his mother.

    ¡°Well, your mommy is out of the country and she promised to get you a lot of things when she¡¯sing back.¡± I exined and I saw his eyes light up.

    ¡°When will she be back?¡± He asked excitedly and I shrugged as I told him that I had no idea yet but he should be expecting her with tons of gifts.

    I couldn¡¯t tell him that his mother was in jail and he looked happy right now, I just don¡¯t want to mess with his feelings so I thought lying about his mother would be best.

    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± He asked and I nodded positively, ¡°is she in jail?¡± He asked and my eyes widened at once.

    How does he know that?

    ¡°Why would you even ask that? You know that she¡¯s¡­¡± my voice went off and I could swear that I didn¡¯t intend for it to be like that.

    ¡°You can tell me the truth, you know?¡± He started, ¡°you can tell me if she¡¯s in prison because my ss teacher said anyone who steals, kills or even hurt people go straight to prison.¡± He exined further.

    Each word he spoke wed at my heart and I felt sorry, ¡°you know what? Let¡¯s just concentrate on the movie for now and we can talk about your mommyter.¡± I suggested.

    I heaved out a sigh of relief when he nodded and leaned more into me as we watched the movie. Stroking his hair lightly, I couldn¡¯t help but think about his question, about what he said.

    I should probably have just told him that his mother is in jail. She doesn¡¯t deserve him anyway but I couldn¡¯t do that to her.

    I couldn¡¯t let a son know that his mother is in prison and I knew that she would be there for a long time because no one had the ridiculous amount of money the court put on her bail.

    We should¡¯ve told him but this is also a way of protecting him, ¡°do you want ice cream?¡± I asked and he nodded immediately.

    Moving his head from myp, I stood to get a bowl of ice cream for him and he happily took it from me and I watched as he ate it happily forgetting that we had an unfinished discussion.

    The Ice cream worked.

    We finished the movie and I helped him with his homework. Checking the time, it was almost his bedtime and I took him to bed.

    He¡¯d told me he wanted to talk about school and his friends and I sat by his bedside as I listened to him talk to me about his new best friend and she¡¯s a girl.

    ¡°Her name is Eva, it¡¯s almost the same as yours,¡± he pointed out and Iughed, ¡°she gave me her coloring book and we had lunch together.¡± He added.

    I teased him about the girl and we talked more before he started closing his eyes. When I was sure that he was asleep, I nted a kiss on his forehead before leaving his room to the sitting room.

    I hadn¡¯t fully settled when I heard my phone ring and I picked it up to see that it was Chad who was calling me.

    ¡°What do you want?¡± I breathed as I picked the call, ¡°I thought you were mad at me and don¡¯t want to talk to me.¡± I added immediately.

    I have no idea what Chad has been wanting with me and at first I¡¯d thought that we were just tonic friends but after the ne incident I knew he wanted more.

    The kind of more that I don¡¯t have to offer.

    ¡°I can¡¯t stay mad at you,¡± heughed from over the phone, ¡°I wanted to ask if you want to go out and get something to eat with me sometime?¡± He asked.

    I¡¯d wanted to decline the offer but his face when I rejected his gift earlier appeared again and I felt sad for him.

    ¡°Sure, we can go get something to eat.¡± I responded and the effect of his shriek from over the phone made me move my phone away for a bit.

    ¡°Thank you so much, I¡¯lle¡­¡±

    ¡°Oh No, not today. We¡¯ll go some other time because I have a kid in the house and he¡¯s asleep at the moment. I can¡¯t just leave him at home.¡± I exined.

    Chad understood and I could hear his excitement because I¡¯d agreed to go out with him. We spoke for a little while and I found myself gettingfortable with him again.

    ¡°You know what, I have things to do, I¡¯ll talk to youter.¡± I lied and before he could say anything I hung up the call.

 Chapter 151

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°I¡¯m going to have a sleepover At Michael¡¯s, is that okay?¡± Khalid asked and I smiled as I stroked his hair backwards before giving him a positive nod.

    ¡°I¡¯ll drop you off.¡± I responded and we both got ready to go to Michael¡¯s house. Michael has been his best friend and I¡¯m d that for someone who barely talks he¡¯s finally getting along with people.

    I¡¯m d that he has stopped asking questions about Aisha and at least for now I don¡¯t have to deal with him thinking that Aisha is in jail.

    We finished getting ready and I dropped him off. I was about to leave when the door opened and Michael¡¯s mother came out of the house.

    ¡°Ava, Hi.¡± She greeted me and I smiled as I moved the strand of hair on my face in ce, ¡°are you okay?¡± She added, the question caught me off guard since I had no idea why she was asking if I was Okay.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, thank you so much for asking,¡± I replied, ¡°I better leave now and thank you for agreeing to the sleepover. Khalid wouldn¡¯t stop talking about it.¡± Iughed.

    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s okay,¡± she sighed, ¡°I heard about the situation with his mother and I know how difficult taking care of someone else¡¯s son might be.¡± She added.

    I knew she didn¡¯t mean it in a bad way but a part of me thought what she said was offensive, ¡°he¡¯s not just anyone¡¯s son.¡± I replied, ¡°He¡¯s Mason¡¯s son, too.¡± I finished.

    ¡°I know. But still isn¡¯t it overwhelming that you have to look after him while his mom is in jail?¡± She scoffed and I rolled my eyes, it was taking all I had in me to not get angry.

    ¡°I understand. Thank you so much for your concern but please do not tell Khalid about his mother, he doesn¡¯t know that she¡¯s in jail.¡± I said and she nodded.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I won¡¯t tell him. I totally understand you,¡± she started after a while of silence, ¡°Also, you can drop him off here anytime you feel like you need a break or some time alone with Mason. He¡¯s always wee here.¡± She judged me with a smile.

    She already read it in the newspaper or probably the TV or just people talking about it and she now knows about Mason and I¡¯s rtionship.

    Mason and I seem to be making lots of publicity waves but for all the wrong reasons.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I said reluctantly before backing away from her and making my way back home. I engaged myself in some menial chores and that was when I remembered that Chad wanted to take me out.

    I was the only one at home anyways so an outing with a friend wouldn¡¯t be all that bad. Smiling, I picked up my phone to fish out Chad¡¯s number and when I dialed it he picked up on the third ring.

    ¡°Hey,¡± His slightly husky voice said from over the phone, ¡°are you okay? Is everything alright?¡± He asked like he was expecting me to be in some kind of trouble.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine,¡± I answered, ¡°I just wanted to tell you that I¡¯m free now and we can go out for lunch.¡± I exined to him.

    ¡°Oh great, I¡¯ll pick you up in an hour¡¯s time?¡± He said and I agreed with the time before hanging up the call.

    Rummaging through my closet, I couldn¡¯t find the right dress to wear and it was making me exhausted. Sighing, I remembered Nicole and FaceTimed her at once and I was d she picked up.

    ¡°Which do you think I should go for, the ck, blue or red?¡± I asked as I picked up the dresses and ced them on my body for her to see.

    ¡°The ck makes you look like you¡¯re in mourning, the red looks too much, the blue is perfect. Do you have a shoe to go with it?¡± She asked and I picked up a ck wedge heels that she approved of immediately.

    ¡°So, what is the asion?¡± She asked as I got dressed up and sat to do my makeup while she supervised and told me what to do.

    ¡°It¡¯s Chad, he¡¯s taking me out for lunch or dinner or whatever it is today.¡± I answered and I couldn¡¯t miss Nicole¡¯s dramatic eyebrow raise.

    ¡°Well, I wouldn¡¯t say you shouldn¡¯t go since he¡¯s so hot. Have fun but don¡¯t have too much, you have a boyfriend that¡¯s also a potential husband. Don¡¯t blow that.¡± She advised me and I nodded.

    ¡°What do you think?¡± I asked when I finished with my makeup and she made the ¡®Okay¡¯ sign with her fingers before blowing me a chef¡¯s kiss.

    ¡°He¡¯ll be here soon and I have to inform Mason so I¡¯ll talk to youter.¡± I told her before hanging up.

    I called Mason and I could tell that he was busy because it went straight to voicemail and I just dropped a message for him.

    Chad came the exact time he said that he would pick me up and I was in total awe when he pulled up in a ssy restaurant.

    It screamed luxury and it was too extravagant for my liking but I didn¡¯t say anything about it. Holding my hand, he led me to our table.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t say it earlier because I¡¯m still in total shock of how extremely beautiful you are.¡± Heplimented as his eyes bore into mine.

    Thanking him, we started talking about how pleasant the weather was and how nice the restaurant was too, everything was just too ssy.

    ¡°Tell me about you, your family and all?¡± He asked and I told him everything that I can about my family, from Danny getting married to my mom and how he¡¯s retired and they¡¯re both seeing the world. Leaving Mason out of it.

    Dinner was over and we both went to his car as he drove me back home, ¡°you¡¯re really beautiful.¡± He whispered as he stared at me.

    I¡¯d wanted to avert my eyes from his gaze but I couldn¡¯t and it wasn¡¯t until I could feel his breath on my face did I realize how close he had gotten to me.

    ¡°I¡¯m so¡­ sorry, I have to go now. I¡¯ll see you at work tomorrow and thanks for the dinner.¡± I said quickly before rushing out of the car.

 Chapter 152

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Rushing out of the car, I realized that Mason was waiting for me, ¡°What are you doing here?¡± I asked, my teeth gritting against each other because of the cold.

    ¡°Waiting for you.¡± He replied as he pulled off his coat and ced it around me before pulling me into him in a hug.

    After a while of holding Mason, we both made our way inside the house and since we¡¯ve promised each other not to keep secrets, I told him everything that transpired between Chad and I.

    ¡°I knew I don¡¯t feelfortable with you around him,¡± Mason sighed as he wrapped both his arms against his chest.

    ¡°I know and I¡¯m sorry. I shouldn¡¯t have gone for that dinner and all these wouldn¡¯t have happened.¡± I apologized.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± he responded, ¡°I just don¡¯t want you seeing him anymore.¡± He added and even before he couldplete his statement I agreed to whatever he had to say.

    I also don¡¯t want to see Chad anymore, I knew the feelings he had for me weren¡¯t just tonic. He likes me romantically and I don¡¯t feel the same because I¡¯m in love with Mason.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± I tried to apologize again but all I had to say were crushed when Mason¡¯s lips imed mine, shutting me up.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I didn¡¯t say anything about it because I didn¡¯t want to be too controlling.¡± He exined as he ced the pancakes on the tes.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I couldn¡¯t eat much because I¡¯d already ate out with Chad and I only agreed to the pancakes because I didn¡¯t want Mason eating alone.

    ¡°Oh, I almost forgot,¡± I started as I took my ss of water, ¡°Khalid is curious about where Aisha is. Don¡¯t you think we should tell him?¡± I asked and Mason nodded for a while.

    ¡°You¡¯re right, we should probably tell him. We can¡¯t keep lying to him and he¡¯ll grow older and get even more curious,¡± He agreed and I nodded affirmatively.

    ¡°We¡¯ll tell him but not yet, not until I¡¯ve settled all the weird things happening in thepany at least.¡± He exined and I felt sorry for him. I felt bad because there was nothing that I could do to help him out of everything.

    ¡°You know, I had to hire a private investigator to investigate all of these and he still has no lead, a detective to put an eye on thepany¡¯s ount.¡± He sighed as he spoke, his face fell and his expression was of worry.

    ¡°And someone deliberately got my monitor wet during a very important meeting, I couldn¡¯t work on it all day. I had to get it fixed,¡± He continued, ¡°someone is trying to sabotage me.¡± He finished as he ran his fingers through his hair.

    His shoulders were tense from all the burdens that he had to carry and the wrinkles on his forehead deepened as he thought about what was going on.

    I couldn¡¯t help but get scared for him, the only person that I could think was sabotaging him is Aisha but she¡¯s no longer with us which means that she was no longer a threat.

    Who could it be?

    ¡°Let¡¯s go to bed.¡± Mason¡¯s voice jolted me out of my thoughts and I smiled as we both went to our room. Pulling off my dress, I joined Mason on the bed and it didn¡¯t take long for us to fall asleep.

    ******

    Waking up early, I decided that I was going to make breakfast before Mason and Khalid woke up and when I finished I baked brownies.

    Mason, Khalid, Khalid¡¯s friends and their parents including me had decided to take the kids to the park. We got ready and took the children to get Ice cream.

    They had the ice cream with the brownies I baked while Mason and I with the parents had wine with ours as we chatted and watched the kids have fun.

    ¡°How long have you both known each other?¡± One of the parents asked and I couldn¡¯t help but smile as the memories of the very first time I met Mason reyed in my head.

    ¡°Roughly six or seven years.¡± I replied with a smile and they all gasped before one of them decided to let out a sigh.

    ¡°We Uhm¡­ we saw the news about the both of you being siblings and we just kept wondering. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s incest and forbidden for siblings to get date let alone get married?¡± She asked.

    What she¡¯d said tore my heart to shreds and I had no idea what to say. I felt bad and I couldn¡¯t stop myself from seeing that she¡¯s right.

    ¡°We¡¯re not real siblings,¡± Mason spoke up and I couldn¡¯t be any more grateful, ¡°we¡¯re not blood rted so it¡¯s okay to get married.¡± He finished.

    I saw the confused look on their faces but they agreed with him anyway since they didn¡¯t have anything else to say about our rtionship.

    Looking away, I thought about their questions but pushed it to the back of my head as I watch Khalid have fun with his friends.

    They wereughing about something as they yed with the ducks in the pond andughed at the one that looked like it was sinking.

    The day went by quickly and soon it started getting dark, ¡°Kids, time to go!¡± I called the kids who came running in our direction at once.

    ¡°Thank you so much foring, we had fun.¡± Michael¡¯s parents said and Iughed with a nod while Mason shook hands with Michael¡¯s dad, I hugged his mom.

    ¡°Goodnight.¡± We bid Khalid¡¯s friends and their families goodbye before getting into the car while Mason drove us home.

    We got home and I tucked Khalid into bed with Mason with me, ¡°Goodnight, Champ.¡± Mason kissed his forehead and I did the same before walking out of his room.

    We made our way to our room and I got into the cold shower with Mason. We needed it to rx after the hot night out.

    ¡°You don¡¯t know all the things I could do to you here.¡± He whispered into my ear and Iughed.

 Chapter 153

    Ava¡¯s POV

    My day has been busy as Mason and I attended meetings upon meetings and I was d it was finally over when I made my way out of the conference room from thest meeting.

    I just got transferred to the financial department because I hated seeing Mason worried about the missing money and I also wanted to help out and get to the root of the matter.

    ¡°Thank you so much for doing this,¡± Mason smiled as we both got my things to my new office, ¡°I don¡¯t know what I would have done without you.¡± He added and Iughed.

    I told him that I was going to see him after work and the both of us went back to our various posts as I tried to concentrate on what I had to do.

    I started to match the numbers on the papers and the summation of it all didn¡¯t seem to make sense but it was all confusing and I was trying to figure it out when a sight caught my eye as I looked out the window.

    I saw Chad parking his car and he came out of it looking happy, he had what I¡¯ll assume to be his best suit on and not only that, I noticed the flowers and choctes he had with him as he made his way into the building.

    What is going on?

    Groaning, I tried to move him to the deepest part of my head where he wouldn¡¯t be able to get in the way of my work. I felt the sudden urge to pee and standing up from my table to make my way to the restroom, Chad came in.

    ¡°Ava!¡± He called and I could tell that he was both surprised and happy to see me here since he didn¡¯t know that I¡¯d just transferred.

    ¡°These are yours.¡± He immediately handed me the flowers and chocte as he grinned from ear to ear like a little child that had just been offered candy.

    ¡°Did youe to see me?¡± He asked, ¡°did you miss me?¡± He added before I could answer his first question and I closed my eyes in utter frustration.

    ¡°No, I didn¡¯te here because I miss you,¡± I was blunt and I saw the smile on his face disappearing, ¡°I recently transferred here and so I¡¯m a new employee.¡± I added.

    His frown grew into an even wider grin and the way his eyes bore into mine freaked me out. Groaning inwardly, I made my way back to my desk and I was shocked when Chad followed me.

    He had a mischievous smile almost as if he had something nned and I knew that whatever he had nned wouldn¡¯t be good and it made me even more ufortable.

    Slowly walking closer to my table, with his smile growing wider with each step he took towards me. Chad stopped when he got to my table and with an even wider smile he started going down on one knee.

    Everything happening seemed to be in slow motion and for a moment I thought that this was a bad dream until the cheer of everyone in the office area jolted me out of my thoughts.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± I asked, my cheeks flushed with embarrassment and confusion, ¡°get up, you¡¯re embarrassing me.¡± I added as I looked around.

    Everyone was watching but Chad doesn¡¯t seem to care about that as he stayed on his knee anyways. Everything happening was so confusing.

    ¡°Ava,¡± he called and my eyes widened as he held my hand, ¡°honestly, I don¡¯t know how else to say this but I¡¯ll just say whateveres to my mind.¡± He started and I could feel my heartbeat racing.

    Oh No.

    ¡°I never really believed in love at first sight until the moment that I set my eyes on you and at first I¡¯d thought that you would just be like other girls but I was wrong,¡± he started and everything seemed even more confusing.

    ¡°I got to know you and I never want to stop knowing you, I want all of you because from that very first day you smiled at me you already had all of me.¡± He paused to smile at me.

    ¡°Will you please do me the honor and be my girlfriend.¡± He finally finished and it was as if a huge bell had just rung in my head.

    Embarrassed and angry, I yanked him up and pulled him out of the office as everyone pped and some even went as far as asking me to say Yes to his proposal.

    ¡°What the hell are you doing? What were you thinking?¡± I yelled at him when we got outside, ¡°are you forgetting that this is an office and you¡¯re supposed to be professional?!¡± My anger built up inside me as I yelled.

    ¡°You¡¯re right, I wasn¡¯t thinking,¡± he sighed, ¡°I just love you so much that I wanted to publicize the love I have for you.¡± He answered and I got even more frustrated.

    ¡°Look, I don¡¯t appreciate all of these and we¡¯re not evenpatible together, you don¡¯t know anything about me because if you did you would know that I hate being unprofessional.¡± I started.

    ¡°Thank you for the grand gesture and everything you¡¯ve done for me but No, Thanks. I can¡¯t date you and I don¡¯t think I will ever want to be in a rtionship with you.¡± I finished as I tried to walk away but he pulled me back.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Just take some time off, think about it¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you get it?! There is nothing to think about. I don¡¯t love you, I never have and I never will.¡± I cut in before hepleted his statement.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I gave you the wrong impression or signal but I never wanted a rtionship with you because I don¡¯t like you at all!¡± I tried to keep my voice low but it was hard.

    ¡°You don¡¯t?¡± He asked.

    ¡°I don¡¯t, at least not in the way you think. I merely wanted to be friends. That¡¯s all.¡± I finished before walking away from him.

 Chapter 154

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Getting to the office, I looked around to see that Chad wasn¡¯t around and just when I was about to start working I heard people congratting me.

    ¡°Congrattions girl, you¡¯re one luckydy. If I was the one Chad asked to be his girlfriend I would probably throw myself at him and scream yes at the top of my lungs.¡± One of my coworkers said and I rolled my eyes.

    ¡°Oh No, we¡¯re not dating. I didn¡¯t say yes or whatever you think.¡± Iughed casually as I sat to start my work.

    ¡°Of course you didn¡¯t say yes after your bitchass fucked him.¡± Another said and I could hear the loud ringing of imaginary bells in my head.

    ¡°Excuse me?¡± I raised an eyebrow, daring her to repeat what she said again as I probably thought that I heard wrong.

    ¡°You heard me, everyone knows you¡¯re nothing but a cheap slut and yes, you¡¯re lucky to have him propose to you since youced your cunt with god knows what,¡± she continued and my jaw dropped.

    I¡¯d wanted to say something as I stood but all my words got caught in my throat as I stared at her, ¡°You¡¯re a fool though, it¡¯s your loss if you decide to not date him.¡± She continued and I stared in disbelief.

    Giving her the floor to say all she wanted to say as my anger swirled inside of me, I clenched my fist as the gush of anger took over me.

    ¡°He¡¯s handsome and rich, what else do you want?¡± She asked with a sign as she dared go back to her desk and that was where I lost it.

    ¡°How dare you?¡± I asked, I wasn¡¯t just going to stand there and let her berate me like that, ¡°If you think that I¡¯m someone like you who fucks anything with a dick then you are severely wrong.¡± I added.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    She was now in the position I was when she was saying all of those mean things to me.

    ¡°Well, I said No to him. I¡¯m not the one in a rtionship where I get treated like a punching bag so before you have a say in who I decide to date or not I¡¯ll suggest that you mind and fix your own rtionship first.¡± I snapped and her mouth dropped open as everyone suddenly started minding their businesses.

    Sobbing, she ran out of the office while I tried to concentrate. I could feel the stares from everyone and I felt bad but I shrugged it off.

    Locking myself in the office when the girl left, I decided to start working on and investigating the missing money in thepany.

    While I was doing my research I couldn¡¯t help but notice that all the money that has left thepany¡¯s ount all went into the same offshore ount and it has also been happening since three months ago.

    Whoever was doing this is in thepany and they¡¯re really smart because there was no trace at all and no IP address was found to trace them to theputer they used.

    Filing all of my findings, I¡¯d decided to take it to Chad because he¡¯s the head of the finance team and he also needs to know about what I¡¯ve found out.

    ¡°Where is Chad?¡± I asked one of the receptionists since I¡¯ve looked everywhere for him and I also haven¡¯t seen him all day and that¡¯s pretty unusual.

    ¡°Oh, he¡¯s probably in the office on the lower floor, his friend works there, maybe you¡¯ll check him there?¡± She answered and after thanking her I made my way to the elevator.

    On my way, I bumped into Mason and I was excited to tell him what I¡¯d found out but I also didn¡¯t want to say anything until I had solid proof because I might be wrong.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Did you find something out?¡± He asked and for a moment I wanted to speak but I shook my head negatively and told him that I haven¡¯t gotten anything yet.

    Nodding, Mason left and I started to make my way to the office the receptionist had directed me to earlier so I could find Chad and tell him all about this.

    ¡°What is the n? Still haven¡¯t gotten anything?¡± I was about to knock when I heard an unfamiliar voice that made me stop in my tracks.

    Standing at the entrance, I knew it was wrong but I¡¯d decided that I was going to listen in on their conversation.

    ¡°Oh, you know we¡¯ve gone far man,¡± Chad replied and my curiosity grew deeper, ¡°It¡¯s going well and the cash is safe where it is.¡± He added and my eyes widened in shock.

    Are they talking about what I think they¡¯re talking about?

    ¡°And Ava? What do you intend to do with her? I saw the proposal and flowers and choctes, are you in love with her?¡± His friend asked and I heard Chad¡¯s sinisterugh.

    ¡°In love with who? Her? C¡¯mon she¡¯s not my type,¡± Chad responded and I had no idea why but I felt like someone thawed at my heart.

    ¡°Let¡¯s just say having Ava on our side like my girlfriend would bring us closer to everything. She¡¯s going to be a wonderful pawn if only we could steal her over.¡± Chad exined and I couldn¡¯t believe what I was hearing.

    ¡°I thought you had that covered?¡± His friend asked again and I heard Chad¡¯s loud deep sigh.

    ¡°Not yet,¡± he responded, ¡°She¡¯s ying hard to get and I¡¯ve given her enough time but my patience is wearing thin. That bitch better say yes soon!¡± He added as he hit his hand on the table, causing me to jump slightly even though I wasn¡¯t with them.

    ¡°Chill, up your game and maybe she¡¯ll fall for you.¡± His friend advised him.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do that, I just can¡¯t wait to destroy that son of a bitch Mason and take over thepany. We¡¯re going to be so fucking rich considering we have a huge sum of money already.¡± Chadughed as he spoke.

    My heart couldn¡¯t take what I¡¯d heard, my breathing paced as I turned to leave at once.

 Chapter 155

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Leaving there as fast as my legs could carry me, I bumped into someone and I couldn¡¯t wait to tell her that I was sorry because I didn¡¯t want them toe outside to see me rushing out of there.

    Hurriedly, I made my way to Mason¡¯s office. I couldn¡¯t believe what I¡¯d heard from Chad and his friend and the only person I could talk to was Mason.

    ¡°I really need to talk to you, can we go somewhere no one would hear us?¡± I asked breathlessly when I got to him and shocked to see me in that state, he stood toe to me.

    Locking the door, he turned back to face me, ¡°my office is soundproof, no one can hear what we say.¡± He replied and I swallowed as I thought of the best possible way to exin things to him.

    Bringing out the evidence I filed earlier to show Chad, I showed everything to Mason and exined to him about how I thought that the person doing this was an employee of thispany.

    ¡°The person does not only work in thispany, they¡¯re in the finance department and the money all went into the same offshore ount without any trace.¡± I exined to him.

    ¡°I suspected that too and I¡¯m looking into it but I haven¡¯t gotten anything so far,¡± he sighed, ¡°it¡¯s part of the reason I asked you to transfer there.¡± He exined and I nodded.

    ¡°But what if I tell you that we have a suspect?¡± I asked and he raised an eyebrow as he stared at me in disbelief.

    Without leaving a single detail, I exined everything I heard Chad and his friend talk about when I went there to show him what I¡¯d found out.

    ¡°I¡¯m telling you that the money they were talking about is the one that has been missing from thepany, put the puzzles together Mason.¡± I finished.

    Mason sighed as he paced around his office for a while, the silence in the room was deafening as I thought about what to do while Mason also did the same.

    ¡°Wait, are you really sure you heard him say these things?¡± He asked after a while of silence and I have never been more angry at something.

    ¡°Chad is one of the firm¡¯s trusted financial agents and he¡¯s probably been around for not too long but this is too big an usation?¡± He added.

    Rage flowed through me like hotva with each word that came out of Mason¡¯s mouth, ¡°And I¡¯m not to be trusted?¡± I snapped. I had no idea why but I was really angry.

    ¡°I heard him say all of those things and the first person I came to is you because I was looking out for you. I love you and I¡¯m fucking worried about you.¡± I added calmly this time and Mason sighed as he held both my arms.

    ¡°I know you love me and I don¡¯t doubt a thing you say,¡± He smiled as he assured me, ¡°Okay, do you have proof? Like recording or a video, anything to make it easy for us?¡± He asked and I closed my eyes shut for a while.

    ¡°I was too shocked to do anything, I just wanted toe here and tell you all about it.¡± I sighed and Mason assured me that he was going to do something about it.

    Before I left, Mason called his Private Investigator and exined everything I said to him. I was a little bit relieved when he told me that the private investigator will also look into it from his side.

    Sighing, I made my way back to my office and I got so engrossed in my work that I had no idea how much time had gone.

    Deciding to workte, I rounded up all I had to do and furthermore deepened my research. I tried to get an IP address or anything that would trace the money to Chad but I got nothing.

    Tired, I stood to get my things and leave when my door flung open and the sight of Chad in my office got me scared. I could hear my heartbeat and I tried to force out a smile to hide the fear inside of me.

    ¡°You look like you¡¯ve seen a ghost.¡± Heughed and I joined him in theughter as I told him that I thought he¡¯d left already. I had no idea that he was still around.

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m still around and that¡¯s because I wanted to know what you¡¯ve decided,¡± he started and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me what he meant.

    ¡°Given it a thought and made a decision about being my girlfriend?¡± He asked, my breath got caught in my throat but I summoned all of my courage.

    ¡°I told you my answer already, there¡¯s nothing to think about, it is still No.¡± I answered and the sound of hisughter made me ufortably chilly.

    ¡°I was giving you some time to change your mind. You can¡¯t just reject me.¡± Heughed and I stood firmly in front of me.

    ¡°I am not changing my mind and you should learn to deal with rejection. You¡¯re my friend, a tonic one and I don¡¯t love you. I never have and I never will.¡± I answered.

    The vase ttering on the floor made me jump and scream in fear as I lifted my gaze to see Chad¡¯s eyes glistening with anger. His breathing had paced and his face had already turned so red that it was easy to tell that he was pissed.

    Shocked, I took a step back as he took one closer to me, ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he whispered when he got to me and pulled me closer to him.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to scare or hurt you.¡± He added as he stroked my hair lightly and kissed it before turning to leave.

    Hurriedly, I also packed the rest of my things and leave the office.

 Chapter 156

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Scurrying out of the office as soon as I could, I could hear my heart thumping as I approached the penthouse and it wasn¡¯t until I got in did I feel safe.

    ¡°Mason.¡± I cried as I made my way to him and hugged him while he stroked my hair lightly in a bid to calm me down.

    ¡°You¡¯re fine,¡± he hushed and I sniffled as I snuggled more into his arms that he seemed like I wanted to get inside him, ¡°what¡¯s the matter?¡± He asked when I¡¯ve finally calmed down.

    Having my seat while Mason poured me a ss of water, I exined everything that happened back at the office to him and told him how Chad had pestered and almost hit me.

    ¡°I¡¯m gonna kill him.¡± He seethed as he left his seat and picked up his coat. I knew that Mason would do anything to him but I couldn¡¯t risk him doing that yet.

    ¡°No, please no,¡± I stopped him and he turned to look at me in disbelief with one eyebrow raised, ¡°if you do that you¡¯re going to ruin our perfectly good chance at nabbing him.¡± I exined and his breathing slowed down.

    ¡°And we don¡¯t want that to happen,¡± I muttered as I got closer to him, ¡°just move me from that department to my previous one or to the research department since we already know the truth.¡± I exined with a sigh.

    ¡°I just don¡¯t want to be anywhere around him so please do anything to take me away from him.¡± I added and Mason nodded in agreement to my suggestions.

    ¡°Okay, that sounds like a good idea,¡± he smiled and I kissed him, ¡°I¡¯ll have you moved but for now you have to have a rxing bath and a long sleep. You¡¯ve earned it.¡± He kissed me again as he pulled off my coat.

    ¡°You know I would enjoy it more if you get in there with me.¡± I bit my lower lip because I knew how crazy that gets him.

    ¡°I would too but you really need to rx,¡± he kissed me again as he led me to our room, ¡°tomorrow, we¡¯ll go out and have fun.¡± He promised with a smile that I returned.

    ¡°I was about to say that you¡¯re no fun but I¡¯m d that you are.¡± Iughed as Mason went into the bathroom to help me run my bath.

    Pulling my clothes off, I let out a sigh as I made my way to the bathroom to see Mason already soaked in the bubble bath he¡¯d run for me.

    Laughing, I joined him and we both soaked in it in each other¡¯s arms before finally deciding to go to bed.

    ¡°Goodnight Sweetheart.¡± He kissed my hair as he pulled me closer into him. I felt safe in his arms and whenever I¡¯m cuddled with him I feel like no harm cane to me.

    Smiling, I closed my eyes and gave into the arching urge to rest after a long day at the office today.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    ****

    Groaning, I winced when the sunlight peered into the room and affected my eyes. I buried my face in the pillow for a while before finally getting the strength to stand up.

    Looking around, Mason wasn¡¯t on the bed with me and he also wasn¡¯t anywhere around the house, ¡°Good Morning.¡± Khalid¡¯s cheerful voice greeted me when I got downstairs.

    I was about to go sit with him when the doorbell rang and I went to answer it but there was no one at the door. I turned to leave but my eyes caught the big box on the doorstep.

    Carrying it, it felt heavy but I knew it was mine because it had my name on the tiny note on it. I looked at the back of the paper and I couldn¡¯t hold back my smile when I saw that it was from Mason.

    Hurriedly, I took it to the bedroom to check the content and I was in awe when I saw the beautiful purple gown. I never really liked the purple color but the dress was really gorgeous and there were also a ck wedge heels to match.

    Quickly, my feet padded to the bathroom and I started getting ready, I looked at the mirror and felt like a Disney Princess.

    The doorbell rang again and when I walked down the stairs Khalid and Mason were standing in the doorway, ¡°Whoa.¡± They both let out at the same time.

    ¡°You¡¯re beautiful.¡± Mason kissed me when I got to him and soon we were out of the house and in the car. We dropped Khalid off at his friend¡¯s house.

    I felt a little bit bad for having to drop Khalid off just to have fun but Michael¡¯s mother assured me that she was going to take care of him and I needed some time off to have fun.

    We got to a really exquisite restaurant and I couldn¡¯t help the gasp that escaped my lips. Mason took my hands and we both made our way to our reserved table.

    I could feel the fleet of eyes on me and somehow I felt ufortable but Mason is with me, ¡°you¡¯re too beautiful I just have to show you off.¡± He whispered and I smiled as we got to our table.

    The server came to take our order and I couldn¡¯t hide my amusement when Mason threatened to fire him because he was flirting with me and he¡¯d even asked that our waiter should be changed.

    ¡°No one gawks at what¡¯s mine.¡± He told me and Iughed as we both ate our food silently. We soon finished eating and decided to take a walk hand in hand.

    We got to a bench and sat down there as we gazed at the beautiful flowers. I was engrossed with staring at them when Mason pulled my face away and kissed me softly.

    ¡°I really can¡¯t wait to get you naked and fuck you so hard.¡± He whispered into my ear and that sent spirals pulsating pleasure through me.

 Chapter 157

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°You know I really can¡¯t wait for that too.¡± Iughed as I leaned in to kiss him even harder and the kiss that started off as a gentle one soon started bing tough before I broke it.

    ¡°We¡¯re outside and it¡¯s not dark yet.¡± I cautioned and Mason understood, I¡¯d wanted to look away when he scooped a handful of water and sshed it on me and soon we were running after each other.

    It was a beautiful day and I was d that Mason nned this out for me, I didn¡¯t want the day to end as I closed my eyes in Mason¡¯s warm embrace.

    After a while of talking and running around in the restaurant¡¯s garden, we both decided to go to the police station so we could report what had been happening with Chad.

    The cops took my statement and soon we were ready to leave, on our way home I couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling that someone was either watching or following us.

    Looking at the rear view mirror, it was the fifth time and the car still hasn¡¯t stopped following us, ¡°Take a turn here, Mason.¡± I told him and after looking at me confusingly for a while he took the turn and that same car took the exact turn.

    ¡°That car has been following us since we got out of the police station,¡± I finally decided to let him know, my chest felt cold as I looked at the rear view mirror again.

    Mason stepped on the elerator and increased his speed to be sure and the car did the same. His eyes still fixed on the road, Mason brought out his phone to make a call.

    ¡°Mason! Is everything alright?¡± The voice at the other end asked and I could hear because it was connected to the car¡¯s Bluetooth.

    ¡°Hey, I¡¯m on the highway now and I think there¡¯s a car following us.¡± He exined and the man assured him that they would track his car and cause a distraction so we could escape.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    Mason stepped on the elerator again and soon I could see a fleet of cars behind us as I let out a sigh of relief, we left the road and I couldn¡¯t see the car anymore.

    ¡°I think we lost them.¡± I sighed and Mason nodded as we continued our drive back home silently. I couldn¡¯t stop thinking that maybe it was Chad.

    ¡°I¡¯ll hire bodyguards because right now you don¡¯t seem to be safe,¡± he said as he pulled over in the parking lot, ¡°and for now we just have to stay in.¡± He added as we made our way inside the house.

    We¡¯d already picked Khalid up on our way home and I was d that he wasn¡¯t in the car when that mysterious car was chasing after us.

    ¡°We¡¯ll interview potential bodyguards tomorrow.¡± Mason assured me as he kissed me before we all went inside.

    I pulled off my clothes and got into afortable cloth so I could spend some quality time with Khalid. The day went by quickly and it was night already.

    Khalid was teaching me how to build a fort in the sitting room because we nned on having our special movie night themed ¡®The night of horror¡¯ while Mason worked.

    ¡°What are you both doing?¡± Mason¡¯s voice caught us off guard and Khalid and I screamed as we threw the bowl of popcorn at him before we realized he was the one.

    Laughing, he joined us and we all ate popcorn while we continued the movie. We were halfway through the second one when we noticed that Khalid was asleep.

    ¡°What will happen at work now?¡± I asked and Mason sighed before telling me that I will now be working for him while Chad gets suspended.

    Excited, I suppressed the shriek so as not to wake Khalid up as I threw myself at Mason and kissed him. We finished the movie and decided to take Khalid up to his room.

    Getting to our room, we FaceTimed our parents since it¡¯s been a while we heard from them and that was how we got to know that they were now in Montreal.

    ¡°I really hope you¡¯re enjoying your tour.¡± I told my mother whoughed at me before stopping abruptly and calling for Mason.

    ¡°You know, you both are wasting too much time,¡± Danny started and Mason raised an eyebrow, ¡°when will you both make kids of your own and get married?¡± My mother chimed in and I almost choked on my spit while Masonughed.

    ¡°Soon, we promise to make it so soon that you will fly across the world to see your grandchild and walk Ava down the aisle.¡± He responded and that answer gave me a swirl of butterflies in my stomach.

    ¡°How is Khalid?¡± My mother asked and I told her that he¡¯s fine and asleep. After a while of talking we said our Goodnight and hung up.

    ¡°I get to have you all to myself tonight.¡± Mason groaned as he lifted me off my feet and dropped me on the bed gently.

    Pulling off his shirt, I couldn¡¯t help the moan that escaped my lips when I saw his bare ripped chest, ¡°don¡¯t get too excited.¡± He whispered in my ear and I could feel my liquid drip.

    Pulling my top off, he unhooked my bra and explored the tip of my nipple with his tongue while his finger twirled on the other one.

    Arching my back so I crashed into him, I wanted more of that. Mason made a wet path from my breast down to my belly and gave my nipple a slight lick before stopping on my pussy lips.

    ¡°Fuck.¡± I moaned when he licked the lips and rubbed my clit with two fingers, my eye rolled and my toe curled as his tongue went inside my pussy.

    Moaning, the insertion of his finger and tongue inside my pussy at the same time sent me over the edge and I could feel my orgasm building up.

    Stopping abruptly, he moved back up to kiss me and I could taste myself on his lips, his knee separated my legs further and I gasped as I gripped the sheets when he thrusted hard into me.

 Chapter 158

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Ava and I drove to Khalid¡¯s school to drop him off before going back so we could interview the bodyguards I¡¯d asked the detective to get.

    After a while of talking and questions I finally hired three of the heavily built men, two of them to apany Ava to wherever she was going to while the other one was to be with Khalid.

    ¡°Get home early.¡± Ava kissed me as she helped me put on my jacket and I smiled as I told her that I would try my best to be home early.

    I was about to leave the house for work when I got a call from the cops, ¡°we couldn¡¯t find Chad at home.¡± The man announced and I only sighed.

    He¡¯s the major suspect in everything happening and the fact that he¡¯d almost hurt Ava made me ufortable. Sighing, I thanked the police and turned to see Ava staring at me with a raised eyebrow.

    ¡°What?¡± She asked and I shrugged, I¡¯d decided not to tell her about Chad and I¡¯d asked her toe to work with me instead.

    I couldn¡¯t risk her staying at home alone Incase Chad thought that the best thing to do was toe home to get her.

    ¡°You¡¯ll be able to concentrate more in my office.¡± Iughed when I finally got her to follow me after much persuasion.

    I drove us to work and Ava did all she had to do in my office. She was so engrossed with her work that she had no idea it was lunch time until I tapped her shoulder.

    ¡°It¡¯s Lunch time.¡± I announced into her ear and sheughed as she lied about knowing before kissing me and picking up her bag.

    ¡°So, what do you wanna eat?¡± She asked and I raised an eyebrow in hopes that she was going to get the memo but she didn¡¯t.

    ¡°How about you?¡± I replied and before she knew what was going on I picked her off the ground and ced her on my office table.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been meaning to do this,¡± I moaned as I kissed her and my fingers teased her pussy even though she was still wearing panties.

    Moving her panties aside, I inserted two of my fingers inside her as I twirled it around and she let out a silent moan that made my dick kick hard.

    The n wasn¡¯t to fuck her so I kneeled in front of her and pulled her closer so that my face would be buried in her skirt as my mouth and tongue explored her opening.

    ¡°Oh fuck.¡± She sighed as she held onto the side of the table, I could feel her pussy throbbing and I knew that she was at the verge of orgasm.

    Finger fucking her while my tongue flickered on her pussy lips, it didn¡¯t take long for her to explode on my face.

    Smiling satisfactorily, ¡°You got me all wet.¡± I let out and she apologized but was too weak to stand so sheid on the table for a while until she regained her strength.

    My inte rang and my secretary informed me about a meeting that I had no prior notice about. My blood boiled when it was finally revealed that money had been missing from thepany¡¯s ount.

    Blinded with rage, I made sure to fire the ountant on the spot because how could he keep something like that from me for so long?

    We decided to leave work early and since we missed lunch in my office I thought of getting some street food for Ava.

    We got burgers and fries and ended up almost finishing the fries on each other because of how yful we were around ourselves.

    ****

    Walking down the stairs, I smiled when I saw Ava getting Khalid ready for school and soon they were both done and ready.

    ¡°There¡¯s been a lot of investigation with the IRS over the stolen funds and I will be honest it¡¯s stressing me out.¡± I confessed as she held me and fiddled with my hair.

    ¡°I know, you¡¯ll be fine.¡± She assured me before cing her lips on mine and soon we drove Khalid to school and when we were sure that he¡¯s settled I drove to work.

    ¡°What do you think about having Khalid transferred to a closer school? We¡¯ll check the ones around us.¡± I offered and after a while of silence Ava nodded her head in agreement.

    ¡°It¡¯s a great idea, I like it.¡± She smiled as we got to work. Ava went to my office while I went for a meeting I had with the IRS. It was an important meeting and I couldn¡¯t miss it.

    My phone rang and I had to excuse myself to pick it up since it was from Khalid¡¯s school. They told me that he¡¯s beenining of chest pain, he isn¡¯t feeling good and I have toe pick him up so he could rest at home.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Calling one of the bodyguards I¡¯d hired, I exined the situation to him and asked him to bring Khalid to thepany to Ava since I couldn¡¯t go because of the meeting I was having.

    ¡°So, we¡¯ve really been trying to track the stolen money but no matter how hard we tried ourputer keeps getting this virus.¡± The man exined and I sighed as I pinched the bridge of my nose.

    ¡°So what do you suggest? There¡¯s nothing we can do and we¡¯ll just let the thief live a happy life?¡± I asked, my patience was already wearing thin and I had no idea howposed I could be anymore.

    ¡°No, we already sought help from someone and soon we¡¯ll be able to hack into the offshore ount and unravel everything.¡± He assured me.

    We were still talking when my phone rang and I picked it up to see that it was the bodyguard, ¡°our car was attacked and they took Khalid with them.¡± He exined breathlessly as soon as I picked the call.

    Just before I could ask and get a hold of what was going on the call disconnected and I could feel my heart aching.

 Chapter 159

    The bodyguard arrived at Khalid¡¯s school to meet a middle aged woman holding him, she waited for Mason to get out of the car and was disappointed when she didn¡¯t see him.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to take Khalid.¡± The bodyguard announced but the woman was a little bit skeptical about leaving Khalid to him.

    Looking him up and down, ¡°we really can¡¯t release the boy to you until we¡¯ve seen his father.¡± She answered, taking Khalid a few steps away from him.

    ¡°It¡¯s just against our school ethics, I¡¯m sorry.¡± She added as the bodyguard sighed as he pulled out Mason¡¯s card for her.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, ma¡¯am, I know him,¡± Khalid assured her but she still wasn¡¯tfortable, ¡°you can take it up with Mason.¡± The bodyguard chimed in as he took Khalid from the confused looking woman.

    Shrugging, she turned to leave in hopes that she would call his father when she got to the office while the stranger led Khalid to the car.

    Leading Khalid to the car, Khalid was happy to see him since over the days he has been dropping him off they¡¯ve both bonded.

    ¡°Can I please use your phone?¡± Khalid begged as the bodyguard tried to ignore him, ¡°please, I¡¯m bored here.¡± He added and after a while of silence he finally gave in.

    He handed his phone over to Khalid who started ying his favorite game right away. Staring at the mirror, it was strange to the bodyguard that a car was following them.

    ¡°Use your seatbelt, Khalid.¡± He yelled and just as soon as Khalid used the belt, a car crashed into them from the back.

    ¡°Call 911 and call out our location, be quick.¡± The Bodyguard ordered and Khalid did as he was told. Just when he finished calling out their location he got yanked out of the car roughly.

    The bodyguard ran out of the car in an attempt to follow them but was hit by a bat and fainted immediately.

    Khalid struggled to leave the arm of the mysterious man holding him and he¡¯d even gone as far as biting him so hard that he could taste his blood.

    Just when they were about to put him in the trunk of an SUV, the sound of a passerby made them stop.

    ¡°I called 911 already and you¡¯re on live stream.¡± He announced and frustrated, they dropped Khalid at once before driving away.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± He asked and Khalid nodded positively as they both rushed to the side of the driver. cing two fingers on the driver¡¯s neck, the passerby couldn¡¯t feel a pulse.

    ¡°We have to wait for the ambnce to get here.¡± He said as he held Khalid and shield him in case of any other danger.

    Soon, sounds of sirens were heard and the paramedics rushed out of the ambnce to help the bodyguard who is still unconscious.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    They also took Khalid in and they were on their way to the hospital when the bodyguard snapped out of his deep slumber.

    He requested a phone and immediately called Mason to inform him of what had just happened as they left for the hospital.

    Scampering out of the meeting room, Mason ran as fast as he could to his office to break the news to Ava. Hurriedly, they both left thepany.

    Ava was worried and she wouldn¡¯t stop twisting her fingers on the entire ride to the hospital while Mason med himself for what happened.

    ¡°They called me! I should¡¯ve gone to pick him up by myself, I¡¯m so stupid.¡± He sniffled as they got to the hospital and he hurried out of the car.

    Mason rushed into the hospital with the Chief of Police behind him, he had no idea what to do and he just doesn¡¯t know how he¡¯s going to take it if anything happened to his son.

    ¡°How is he? Is he alright?¡± He asked the doctor when they got there but everyone seemed to be busy until after a while.

    ¡°We took the blood we found on your son¡¯s lip, he¡¯s really strong for biting whoever it was like that and we¡¯ll run some tests so we can get the DNA test result.¡± The doctor exined to them but that doesn¡¯t seem like what they wanted to hear.

    ¡°Thank you so much, doc.¡± The COP shook the hand of the doctor as he left to get the statement of the passerby and also the video he imed to have as he promised to have the man behind bars within 24 hours.

    ¡°How is he doing, doctor? Is he alright?¡± Ava cried and the doctor asked her to calm down since they haven¡¯t really run a proper test on Khalid.

    ¡°He keptining of chest pain, has he been having this pain before?¡± He asked and Ava and Mason shook their heads negatively at the same time.

    ¡°We¡¯ll check him out to know what¡¯s wrong because that region is really sensitive.¡± The doctor finished before walking out on them.

    Ava silently prayed that it wasn¡¯t something serious, the day passed by as the doctors tried to find what¡¯s wrong with Khalid¡¯s chest.

    ¡°We need a CT scan for the child in ward 3, it might be something serious.¡± The doctor announced to his colleague and they sprung into action immediately.

    ¡°There!¡± One of the residents called out as they were carrying out the scan on Khalid¡¯s chest, ¡°it looks like a tumor and zoom in.¡± She ordered.

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s a tumor and not just that, there is a metal right beside his heart and it has the shape of a ¡­ . bullet?¡± she further exined as the rest of the surgeons began to see it.

    ¡°Was he shot?¡± She asked as they got out of the OR, ¡°we don¡¯t have much time, he has to be admitted immediately whoever perfumed his first surgery was a rookie and probably didn¡¯t remove it, instead he cut one of the tissues.¡± She further exined to the doctor.

    ¡°How do you make a mistake like that?¡± She asked but stopped talking when they got to Ava and Mason.

    ¡°He needs to be admitted because he has to undergo surgery today.¡± The doctor told Mason and Ava as soon as they got to them.

 Chapter 160

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Aisha¡¯s second trial approached faster than we thought that it would. The things happening around us have made us lose count of the time.

    Khalid had just survived an attempted kidnap and the bodyguard I¡¯d employed also got caught up in it all. I couldn¡¯t help but be thankful for the passerby that was brave enough to confront the kidnappers.

    Khalid had to be admitted because of the pain he wasining about in his chest and he¡¯d also had to go in for surgery. The doctors tried their best to exin what was wrong with him to us but I still couldn¡¯t understand, I was just d that he appeared fine now.

    Ava and I attended the trial and Aisha was charged for Rape, assault, physical abuse and child endangerment all of which she was guilty of.

    ¡°Miss Aisha, you¡¯ve been found guilty of all the crimes that you¡¯ve been charged with and this court sentences you to 30 more years in prison with hardbour.¡± The judge finished as he hit his gavel.

    Ava and I went back to the hospital hurriedly to check on Khalid and there we were told that his health is deteriorating.

    ¡°What do you mean he¡¯s not getting better, he just had surgery and he seems fine to me.¡± Ava argued with the doctor who urged her to calm down.

    ¡°He does seem fine but he isn¡¯t, he has some internal bleeding and seeing as he just got off surgery, it would be a bad idea to take him back in there.¡± He exined and the more he spoke the more confused I became.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked, my heart racing and the doctor¡¯s facial expression wasn¡¯t helping. I knew better than to allow myself to be cajoled by the doctor.

    ¡°What I¡¯m saying right now, Sir, is that we really tried to save your son and I want you to know that he was strong because he fought really hard¡­¡± he started and I couldn¡¯t believe my ears.

    Is he about to tell me that my son is dead?

    Ava was sobbing and I tried to console her but I knew that I also needed consoling, ¡°we lost him. I¡¯m sorry.¡± The doctor finally broke the news before leaving us.

    I was numb, I couldn¡¯t believe what I¡¯d just heard and slowly Ava and I went to sit on the bench as she ced her head on my shoulder to cry it all out.

    *****

    The past days haven¡¯t been easy with the death of Khalid, we mourned him and made sure that he wasid to rest properly. Ava and I have grown to love him so much and his departure has left a huge hole in both our hearts.

    Gradually, we ended up being able to handle his absence well even though we both knew that we would never forget him and he¡¯ll always be with us.

    We had other things to worry about, especially with money still missing from thepany and also the search for those behind Khalid¡¯s attempted kidnap when he was still alive.

    I knew that Ava was finding it difficult to deal with the constant presence of a guard following her around all day and the death of Khalid was also taking a huge toll on the both of us, especially Ava since she got to spend the most time with him.

    Deciding to take a break from work for a while, I asked her to stop working and I¡¯d also stopped the guard from constantly following her around but asked him to still keep his eyes on her until she¡¯s fully settled.

    Taking the liberty to inform people about Khalid¡¯s death, I called Nicole and hoped she would be able toe helpfort her friend but she couldn¡¯t since she was on a business trip but she sent her condolences.

    Our parents came to help and I was d because her mother was there tofort her and I could see that she was getting better and moving on.

    Trying to concentrate on the file I was working on because I will have to send it to the client as soon as I was done working on it, I got an email notification from the IRS.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    ¡®We¡¯re writing to inform you about the progress of the investigation MISSING FUNDS FROM COMPANY ACCOUNT. We¡¯re d to tell you that the money was traced to an offshore ount and we¡¯re still investigating to find the culprit.¡¯

    As soon as I finished reading the mail, my phone rang and it was a call from my Private Investigator. Closing the mail, I picked the call.

    ¡°I just got an email from the IRS but they¡¯re still investigating, what¡¯s up?¡± I asked as soon as I answered the call.

    ¡°Yes, they might still be trying to investigate but I think I know who it is already,¡± my private investigator answered and I stopped everything I was doing at the moment so I could focus on what he was trying to tell me.

    ¡°Now you know no one can be too careful and we traced the ount to some of your employees so do any of the names here ring a bell? Chad Williams, Zachary Caleb and Milo Oliver?¡± He asked and I couldn¡¯t help the cold shiver of shock that ran through me.

    ¡°They¡¯re all my employees.¡± I answered after a while of silence. I was too stunned to speak because I couldn¡¯t believe that Ava was right the whole time but I didn¡¯t act on what she told me because there was no evidence.

    ¡°You have to stop them from working as soon as possible but we¡¯ll have to do that discreetly because they¡¯re all joint signatories to the ount and they¡¯re the one stealing the missing money, we can¡¯t let them know that we know.¡± He exined further.

    ¡°Thank you so much, I¡¯ll work towards it.¡± I said into the phone before hanging up to think about my next line of action.

 Chapter 161

    Mason¡¯s POV

    The ring sound of my phone ringing again jolted me out of my thoughts as I let out a sigh before checking to see that it was the COP calling me.

    ¡°Hey, I¡¯ve got some news for you,¡± he started and I pinched down hard on the bridge of my nose as I listened to what he had to say.

    ¡°We got multiple matches from the DNA we got from the hospital and most of them only had like 75% match but there was one whose DNA matched a hundred percent and we already arrested him.¡± He exined.

    The news of the cops getting a hold of the man who¡¯d attempted to kidnap Khalid brought a sense of peace to me.

    Although I was annoyed about the fact that he was caught after my son had died, I couldn¡¯t help but feel like we¡¯re just a step away from getting justice for my son.

    Dropping the call, I hurriedly called Ava and told her about what the COP told me and soon, we were both driving to the police station.

    Driving as fast as I could, we got to the station and Ava and I got into the COP¡¯s office to wait for him since we were told that he was still interrogating the kidnapper.

    ¡°You¡¯re here,¡± he announced as he had his seat in front of us, I could see his bloody hands and I just knew that the criminal didn¡¯t have his interrogation easy.

    ¡°Who is he and were you able to get him to disclose who sent him?¡± I asked and the way the COP shook his head negatively caused my heart to shatter.

    ¡°But don¡¯t worry, we¡¯re getting there,¡± he assured us, ¡°from what I was able to get from him, he kidnapped Khalid just so they could get back at you.¡± He exined and Ava asked who were the ¡®they¡¯ he was talking about.

    The COP exined to us that they couldn¡¯t get the information of those who sent them, I wasn¡¯t satisfied and I felt the need to ask the kidnapper some questions.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    Getting into the interrogation room, my blood boiled and anger surged through my veins like a volcano about to erupt.

    ¡°Who sent you?¡± I asked through gritted teeth and the sound of the man¡¯sughter got me even angrier, my fist clenched in anger and I wanted to hit his already disfigured face so hard but the COP held me back.

    I lost my son because of the bastard and he had the nerve tough when I asked a question. The COP took the reigns and asked him but he told us that he also had no idea who sent them.

    ¡°We do what we¡¯re told without questions and we only get the money wired into our ount. We don¡¯t require a physical meeting or anything.¡± He exined.

    ¡°So, you want us to believe that you have no tab on whoever it is that hired you?¡± The COP questioned and I saw the smirk y out on the kidnapper¡¯s bruised lip.

    ¡°Believe it or not, we don¡¯t need to have a tab on them. We were hired off a burner phone.¡± He answered and with a nod of the COP¡¯s head the man wad taken out of the interrogation room.

    Ava wouldn¡¯t stop crying on our way home and I could also feel her pain, I had no idea what to say to her to make her feel better because both of us were still mourning the death of Khalid.

    TWO DAYS LATER

    Worried that whoever sent those men would try to kidnap someone again, I refused to allow anyone go out for two days now.

    I¡¯d decided to be careful and since I wasn¡¯t there to protect my son, I wanted to be able to be there for the rest of my families, I want to be able to protect them.

    All the work I wanted to do, I did from my home while the rest of the family stayed in their various rooms and only came outside to keep each other¡¯spany.

    ¡°Oh, yes, cancel the meeting and work on¡­..¡± I was exining some things to my secretary when the door opened and Ava came in with a tray of food.

    Quickly, I hung the call up as I smiled at her, she made sure I ate everything on the te and when I finished eating she sat with me as we both talk to each other.

    ¡°I¡¯m just so worried about everyone and I feel like it¡¯s going to happen again.¡± I sighed as I tried to look away but Ava pulled my face back so that I¡¯m facing her.

    ¡°None of what has happened will repeat itself.¡± She assured me with a smile on her lips before cing it on mine.

    The movement of her finger on my bare skin made my dick rock hard and I just couldn¡¯t resist the urge to fuck her on my office table.

    The sex seemed like what I needed to calm myself down, ¡°I love you.¡± I let out breathlessly as I kissed her again.

    We were both naked and breathless on my office table when we heard a knock on the door that made us jump as weughed at each other.

    Throwing my clothes on rapidly, I opened the door slightly to see my father waiting by the doorway and he¡¯de to ask me to go out for a drink with him and without hesitation I left with him.

    We both drank that night and I couldn¡¯t help the tears that streamed down my face as I cried on my father¡¯s shoulders. I med myself for Khalid¡¯s death but my father stopped me.

    ¡°Don¡¯t me yourself, wallowing in self pity right now isn¡¯t what you need,¡± he started and I sniffled as I listened to him.

    ¡°Everything happens for a reason, Khalid is gone and it¡¯s not your fault, he¡¯s in a better ce now,¡± he continued, ¡°stop ming yourself and start thinking of how to protect Ava.¡± He added.

    ¡°She needs you now more than ever.¡± He finished with a smile as he patted my back.

 Chapter 162

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Talking for a little while with my father, we both made our way back inside while I went to continue my work. I had no idea how much time had gone until I heard loud gigglesing from downstairs.

    Closing myptop, I went to see what the noise was about and I couldn¡¯t help the big smile that formed on my lips when I saw Ava, her mum and my father in the kitchen trying to bake a cake.

    They were all covered in flour and I knew that they were only doing that to make her happy which makes me extremely d that they were around.

    FLASHBACK

    ¡°Khalid, No!¡± Avaughed as she tried to stop Khalid from ruining the cake that they both spent almost two hours baking.

    ¡°It looks really nice.¡± Khalid protested and went ahead with the cake decoration that made Ava let out a fake gasp as she formed a heart attack.

    ¡°You just ruined it,¡± Ava gasped and I couldn¡¯t help the roaringughter that slipped out of my mouth, ¡°this cake will never remain the same again and so will you.¡± She said through gritted teeth.

    Before Khalid knew what was going on he already had the mixed Royal icing all over his face and to defend himself he squirted back at Ava as they both ran around the kitchen.

    They stopped running around and fought to catch their breaths as they continued with their cake and I¡¯d wanted to leave but the sight was just too beautiful that I had to wait.

    ¡°Daddy, look,¡± Khalid ran towards me to show me the magic they¡¯d made, ¡°Ava is a really good mum and now I think you should get married to her.¡± He whispered into my ear when I knelt in front of him.

    ******

    ¡°Mason!¡± Ava¡¯s voice put a halt to my thoughts and I blinked multiple times before reality hit me again. Khalid isn¡¯t around, he¡¯s gone forever and all I have left of him are his memories.

    They were done baking and she wouldn¡¯t stop talking about how much fun she had baking with my father and her mum.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    Taking her hand, we all proceeded to the dining table to eat and after dinner both our parents retired to bed leaving Ava and I.

    ¡°I miss him so much.¡± I confessed as I ced my head on her shoulder and she stroked my hair lightly before telling me that she knew how much I miss Khalid because she misses him too.

    Trying to lighten up the mood, I decided to y Ava a song on the guitar and it was so soothing that it felt like it¡¯s been years since I¡¯dst yed.

    ¡°I miss him so much,¡± Ava bursted into tears that I had toy my guitar down to console her, ¡°it¡¯s really hard to not think about him and the house just feels so empty without him.¡± She added as she cried on my chest.

    Clutching her closer to me, ¡°he¡¯ll always be with us, he¡¯s not really gone.¡± I whispered into her ear to make her feel better and I could see that it worked.

    It was at that moment that I knew how much Ava really loves Khalid, she loved him so purely without caring if he¡¯s her child or not.

    I wish we didn¡¯t have to lose him.

    Her soft breath on my chest told me that she was already falling asleep and not wanting her to stress herself walking back into our room, I carried her all the way and ced her gently on the bed.

    *****

    We got ready for work and I drove us to thepany. We had a lot to do and on getting to thepany Ava and I attended a meeting first.

    ¡°ept our condolences,¡± the head of the board of directors spoke up with a sigh, ¡°it¡¯s hard losing a child and I really think you both should take a break from work.¡± He added but I¡¯d had enough rest already.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine, really,¡± I protested, ¡°I¡¯m the CEO and I need to keep working as one. Thepany rests on my shoulder, I¡¯ll be fine.¡± I exined.

    ¡°He¡¯s right, I¡¯ve had enough rest too. I think I can cope.¡± Ava also added with a small smile even though I know really well that she isn¡¯t really fine.

    We held a meeting on the missing money and I really couldn¡¯t mention the suspects yet until they¡¯ve been arrested. The meeting ended on my note of assuring them that the culprits would be apprehended.

    ¡°Watching you in there was really beautiful,¡± Ava started as we made our way out of the conference room, ¡°you¡¯re a great person.¡± She affirmed as she leaned in to kiss me.

    The day went by quickly then we¡¯d expected it to and soon Ava and I were ready to go back home after a long day at work.

    ¡°You know you never really talk about your mother.¡± Ava¡¯s voice broke the silence in the car and it was as though my heart was about to jump out of my chest.

    ¡°What happened to her and why don¡¯t you like talking about her?¡± She asked, I¡¯d tried to change the topic and divert the conversation but Ava insisted.

    Finally summoning the courage to talk about my mother, I told her all she needed to know and I let out a sigh when I saw her face wet with all the tears she¡¯d shed.

    ¡°This is the exact reason why I don¡¯t talk about her.¡± I sniffled, trying to keep myself from crying too as I looked for a perfect spot to park the car.

    ¡°Look, I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s really fine and you shouldn¡¯t feel sorry for me.¡± I assured her as I pulled her into me to kiss her.

    Breaking the kiss, ¡°talking about it now made me feel better and somehow I don¡¯t hate her as much as I used to.¡± I added with a smile that she returned.

 Chapter 163

    Mason¡¯s POV

    I¡¯d finally calmed from paranoia of what had happened with my mother since that night I spoke about her with Ava and it seemed as though our rtionship had skyrocketed even more.

    Our parents stayed for more weeks and soon they finally decided to leave. Ava and I saw them off to the airport and we¡¯d also decided to wait until it was time for their takeoff.

    ¡°Will you both be okay?¡± Ava¡¯s mother asked and I nodded as I took Ava¡¯s hand while she smiled and ced her head on my shoulder.

    ¡°We¡¯ll be fine mum, you don¡¯t have to worry about us.¡± She responded as she left me to hug her mother.

    ¡°It¡¯s hard for her not to be worried, it¡¯s hard for ¡®US¡¯ to not be worried about you,¡± my father cut in as he tried to hold me like I was still a little child.

    ¡°You both are old enough to get kids of your own and I just can¡¯t believe how much time you¡¯ve spent together and you¡¯re still not pregnant.¡± Ava¡¯s mother added and my father shrugged as if he was in support of what she¡¯d just said.

    ¡°You can decide to get married before having kids or decide to have kids first but all I¡¯ll say is that you both seem so lonely and it¡¯s nothing a baby can¡¯t fix.¡± My father spoke up as Ava and Iughed it off.

    We both knew that they were serious about it but with everything happening around Ava and I don¡¯t think that having a child is what is the next thing in line for us to do.

    Their flight was announced and we all got ready to see them on their ne. Ava stood to talk with her mother while my father spoke to me.

    ¡°You¡¯ll be fine, son,¡± he assured me and I¡¯d wanted to ask him how he knew that I would be fine but he answered before I could ask, ¡°because you¡¯re really strong and always remember that you and Ava need yourselves more than anything now.¡± He added.

    I looked over at Ava and her mum to see Ava smiling at me and I just knew that her mother was telling her the same thing about how we both needed each other.

    After much talk of encouragement and multiple pieces of advice, our parents went into the ne while Ava and I went back to work.

    I was still working when I got an urgent buzz from my secretary and I¡¯d asked her toe to my office to tell me what was so urgent.

    ¡°Sir, you¡¯re needed at the new branch that¡¯s about to open and it¡¯sst minute but I already have your flight booked and your ticket ready.¡± She exined as my mouth dropped as if in shock of what she¡¯d just told me.

    How was I going to get ready and leave as soon as possible without telling Ava about it? Our parents had just left too and she might not say it but I knew that she wanted me home with her.

    ¡°Can it be postponed?¡± I asked with a raised eyebrow and watched as my secretary shook her head while she exined a thousand reasons why I have to leave as soon as possible.

    The business is flourishing and being the CEO my presence was needed and I also had to supervise some things over there. Signing and realizing that I don¡¯t have any choice, I asked her to make the proper arrangements and reservations.

    Leaving the office to go home and pack my bags since we were going to be leaving that night. On my drive back home with Ava I tried to get her toe with me but she onlyughed.

    ¡°Who would get to monitor things here or even continue the investigations if I go on this impromptu trip with you?¡± She asked amidstughter, ¡°I¡¯ll be fine, trust me.¡± She assured me with a smile.

    Getting home, Ava helped me with the packing of my bags and soon we were kidding with her on the bed, my tongue exploring her mouth while my fingers fondled her breasts.

    The sound of her moans sent me over the edge as I fucked her and I groaned as I turned her over on the bed so that her chest would be pressed so hard on the bed.

    I pulled her ass back to me with her back still arched while I fucked her from behind, the way she moaned and tugged on the sheets told me how much she loved getting fucked from behind.

    I could feel my orgasm building up as I kept thrusting hard and fast into her and soon, she couldn¡¯t keep the arch. She copsed on the bed as she orgasmed and I did the same as Iid on her.

    Groaning, I turned to the side of the bed and we both couldn¡¯t hold back ourugh, ¡°you¡¯ll bete for your flight.¡± She said breathlessly.

    Hurriedly, I made my way to the bathroom to take a shower before getting ready to leave for the airport with Ava. She followed me to the airport even though I¡¯d insisted that she didn¡¯t need to.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    We went with the bodyguard and got to the airport. Ava waited with me and when my Secretary arrived I was ready to leave.

    ¡°Be careful, Okay?¡± She kissed me as she made a list of all of the things I should do as soon as my nends.

    ¡°I won¡¯t forget to call you like a bazillion times a day, don¡¯t worry.¡± I winked as I kissed her again before making my way to the ne with the secretary behind me.

    This is the first time in a long time that I would be going away from her and I knew adapting over there without her would be really hard for me.

    I¡¯m going to miss her so much and now I can¡¯t wait for the trip to be over.

 Chapter 164

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°Let him go!¡± I cried, perspiring as I clutched my chest, ¡°please, I¡¯ll do whatever you want just let him go.¡± I pleaded with Chad.

    The sight of Mason on the floor in his own blood and struggling to breathe caused cold shivers to run through my spine.

    How am I going to live my life without him? Mason is the only person I have right now and I really can¡¯t afford to lose him.

    ¡°Sorry,¡± Chad smirked as his trigger finger pulled on the trigger, ¡°not sorry, it¡¯s toote.¡± He finished and the sound of gunshot filled the air.

    Everything seemed to pause as I stared down at Mason¡¯s dead body, I¡¯d wanted to wail but nothing came out as I copsed on the floor.

    Crawling to his side in disbelief, ¡°Mason?¡± I called, tapping him continuously and nudging him in hopes that he was going to wake up but he didn¡¯t even do as little as move his fingers.

    ¡°No, no,¡± I cried as I pulled him closer to me, ¡°Mason please, stand up.¡± I pleaded, my heart shattering like ss. I knew what had just happened but I didn¡¯t want to live in that reality.

    I believed that my Mason was still there and if I called him loud enough he was going to wake up but it¡¯s been minutes and he¡¯s still lying in his pool of blood, his body had gone cold too.

    ¡°Don¡¯t do this,¡± I started, finding my voice, ¡°Mason!¡± I wailed, my chest hurting and my entire body trembled as I held his bloodstained body closer to my chest.

    The bullet hole was still visible, it had gone directly into his heart and that was when it hit me that I¡¯ll never get to see him again.

    ¡°MASON!¡± I screamed and my eyes snapped open at once. Sweating, breathing heavily and looking around in fear I rxed when I realized that I was still in my bedroom and it was in fact a bad dream.

    Silently praying that my dream doesn¡¯te true, I stood from the bed, my legs were shaking and I knew that it was the impact of the dream. It felt so real and for a moment I¡¯d thought that I¡¯d really lost Mason.

    Shrugging the bad thoughts to the back of my head, I walked over to the table in the room and started working on the file I¡¯d brought home from work.

    Finishing with the file, I decided to have cereal for breakfast and when I was done I made my way to the bathroom to have my bath.

    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re okay, it felt real and I was just so scared that I had to call you.¡± I exined my bad dream to Mason when I called him.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, it was just a dream,¡± he replied and I knew that if he was with me he¡¯d have nted a kiss on my forehead.

    He told me about the meeting he¡¯d be having soon and I couldn¡¯t help but hope the meeting goes well for him. I missed him so much and I just hope he finishes up his work over there so he¡¯ll be home soon.

    Getting ready, I drove to work with the bodyguard that Mason had hired before he left. On getting into my office, the sight of the beautiful flowers on my table caused fear to grip me at first as I picked it up and read the note.

    ¡®Hey baby, this is just a reminder of how much I love you. Don¡¯t miss me too much. Kisses, Mason.¡¯

    I smiled when I finished reading the content and that was when I felt relieved. How and when was he able to prepare the flowers?Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    ¡°Please put these in a vase for me.¡± I couldn¡¯t stop smiling as I handed the flowers to my assistant before having my seat and proceeding to start my work.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, these are from the CEO,¡± my assistant walked back into my office and dropped some files on my desk, ¡°he had asked that you handle thepany¡¯s ount until he¡¯s back.¡± She exined and I nodded.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± I started and she turned to leave but the sound of my voice stopped her in her tracks, ¡°before I forget, call a meeting with the finance team, I need to talk to them about some things.¡± I added and she nodded positively before walking back out.

    After a while she came back in to let me know that she¡¯d called the meeting already and it¡¯s scheduled in a few minutes from now. Thanking her, I continued attending to my files before going for the meeting.

    ¡°We have a new n and I¡¯d love to have you all in on it, also you should let me know what you think and if there¡¯ll be anything to be added.¡± I started and the room was silent as I exined the new n to them.

    Every member of the team was able to contribute and also add some things which I promised to take into consideration.

    The meeting went on for almost two hours before it ended, leaving the conference room. I went back to my office to continue my work. I had no idea how much time had passed until I took a glimpse of my wristwatch.

    Getting ready for my lunch break, I made my way to thepany¡¯s cafeteria so I could get something to eat when a familiar sight caught my eyes. Looking closely, I finally realized that it was Chad.

    What is he doing here?

    I knew that he shouldn¡¯t be anywhere around thepany or Mason and I because Mason had fired him and not only that, Mason had put a restraining order on Chad when he was constituting nuisance around thepany building.

    ¡°What is Chad doing here?¡± I asked and my assistant looked confused, ¡°call security and have them throw him out as soon as possible.¡± I added before she could say anything.

    Soon Chad was thrown out of thepany and he was yelling at the security until I turned and our eyes met. He stopped yelling and a smirk formed on his lips as he stared at me.

    It was really creepy but I shrugged it off.

 Chapter 165

    Mason¡¯s POV

    I¡¯d practiced my speech before the meeting and I couldn¡¯t wait to get the meeting over with. Dressing up, I made my way out of my hotel room to the conference room.

    ¡°Good day everyone,¡± I greeted with a smile as I turned the projector on to begin my presentation, ¡°what I¡¯m about to present to you is the initial n of thispany.¡± I continued.

    I had no idea when I digressed from what I¡¯d thought of saying to them when I started talking and to my surprise they were invested in what I had to say.

    ¡°With that being said, my sole purpose of thispany as the CEO is to create something really huge and user friendly and not only that, I really want to see thispany be so great that a lot of people would want to invest in it.¡± I continued as I paused for a while.

    ¡°And I really can¡¯t do it alone without the help and support of the team and board members, I might be the CEO but I also have a lot to learn and I¡¯ll be really happy if everyonees together to help me with this n,¡± I added with a smile.

    ¡°It¡¯s been going well and that¡¯s because of how much hard work you all have put into making it happen. Thank you for that but this is just the beginning and there are many more toe.¡± I finished.

    Smiling, I felt proud of myself when everyone in the conference room rose to give me a round of apuse. I had no idea how much my speech had touched them but I was d that it did.

    Everyone agreed with me and they all decided to raise funds for thepany which didn¡¯t only make me proud of myself but also happy.

    ¡°Let¡¯s have lunch together, Mason.¡± I heard one of the investors say after the meeting and I agreed to have lunch with him alongside my secretary.

    Talking over dinner, I tried to win the investor over with the blueprints I¡¯d prepared earlier and he was even more interested than I thought he would be.

    ¡°I can see that this is the future,¡± he started as he dabbed the napkin on his lips, ¡°and I¡¯m ready to invest in this but we can¡¯t talk about it much over here.¡± He finished and I nodded in agreement.

    ¡°Your speech in there was really touching and you did so well I mustmend which is why we need to meet in San Francisco to talk more about this and close the deal.¡± He finished as he stood to take his leave.

    Excited, I shook his hand and watched him leave the cafeteria. I couldn¡¯t wait to tell Ava about everything that happened today and I know that she would also be happy for me.

    Getting home, I called Ava and set the phone on speaker as I took off my clothes to have my bath, ¡°hello.¡± Her tired voice came from over the phone.

    ¡°You sound really tired, are you okay?¡± I asked and she told me she was fine as she asked about my well being too.

    Talking about our day, I told her about everything that happened at the meeting today and she was as happy for me as I¡¯d predicted. When I finished telling her I asked about her day.

    ¡°I saw Chad today,¡± she responded and the fear that I¡¯d already let go off came rushing back when she told me.

    I fired him and even had a restraining order against him so that he wouldn¡¯t bother Ava anymore.

    ¡°What does he want? Please tell me that you didn¡¯t talk to him.¡± I pleaded as I asked and Ava onlyughed.

    ¡°Of course I didn¡¯t talk to him. I have no idea what he wanted so I just had him thrown out of thepany.¡± She answered and I let out a sigh of relief.

    ¡°I¡¯m calling the security team, it¡¯s dangerous enough that he¡¯s around and I really don¡¯t want him anywhere near you.¡± I said, I was scared and no matter how hard I tried I couldn¡¯t shake the fear off.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me, I¡¯m fine,¡± Ava protested, ¡°you should go to bed now. You need to rest because you have things to do tomorrow.¡± She added and we both said our good nights as I decided to go to bed.

    AVA¡¯S POV

    It¡¯s been a week since Mason had left the house and I miss him with each day that passes. It was a weekend and I was home alone since I¡¯d asked the bodyguards to take the day off except the one watching the door.

    Making myself scrambled eggs and toast, I finished eating and decided to clean up. Groaning, I sat on one of the couches to talk to Nicole.

    It¡¯s been quite a while since west spoke and we were catching up on stuff when I heard the doorbell ring. Excited, I told Nicole that I was going to call her back as I sprinted towards the door.

    I was expecting Mason because I¡¯d thought he wanted to surprise me. Opening the door, my excitement disappeared when the person I saw at the door wasn¡¯t Mason.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± I asked, disappointed, my smile disappearing, ¡°can I help you?¡± I asked again as I cleared my throat and hoped that my face wouldn¡¯t portray my disappointment.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to meet my son.¡± She responded curtly and I tried to ignore her rudeness because she was an elderly woman.

    Smiling, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, you probably have the wrong house.¡± I said, trying to be as nice as I could to this woman.

    ¡°I know where I¡¯m supposed to be, I¡¯m not at the wrong house.¡± She shot back at me and I was taken aback a little.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m sorry,¡± I apologized, ¡°who is your son, maybe I can help?¡± I enquired and she smiled as she braced herself.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious?¡± She asked and the more I tried to understand the more confused I became, ¡°I¡¯m Mason¡¯s mother.¡± She added and my eyes widened in shock.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    What?!

 Chapter 166

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, what?¡± I asked, my mouth ajar and I was still in shock of what was just revealed to me as I stared at the woman in front of me.

    ¡°You can either let me in or you can stand there like a shameless goose while I swerve you aside and walk in.¡± She hissed as she tried to move past me but I stopped her.

    There was no way this woman in front of me was Mason¡¯s mother and that aside, there was no way that I¡¯d let her in my house after what Mason had told me about her.

    ¡°Are you going to stop me from entering my son¡¯s house?¡± She asked rudely and without saying a word I nodded affirmatively and it was now her turn to be surprised.

    Snapping my fingers, the guard that was supposed to be in charge of the door came to the door immediately, he¡¯d moved away at first because we both thought Mason was the one at the door.

    ¡°Get her out of he¡­¡± I was still talking when I felt a sting on my cheek, I opened my eyes to see the woman in front of me breathing heavily.

    She¡¯d just pped me.

    My blood boiled and I could feel the anger of a thousand people but I was not ready to raise my hand on an older woman.

    ¡°Let her go,¡± I said through gritted teeth to the guard who was trying to force the woman out but she was making it difficult due to her struggles.

    ¡°Look, I¡¯m going to look over the fact that you just violently attacked me right now and I¡¯m going to say something,¡± I started as I took a step closer to her.

    ¡°I know what happened between you and Mason and I know it¡¯s not my ce to say but I have to tell you that you¡¯re a horrible mother,¡± I finished, I watched her eyes turn red in anger but I didn¡¯t care.

    ¡°Now, if you want something to do with Mason, who you im to be your son, you will have to go through a court and ask for his and his father¡¯s forgiveness.¡± I said to her as my eyes stared at her disdainfully.

    ¡°You have no right to tell me what to do, you opportunistic whore that doesn¡¯t know her ce,¡± she spat at me, ¡°I have no bone to pick with you but your whore mother who raised a harlot like you.¡± She added and I clenched my fist in anger.

    ¡°She married the father and you decided to go for the son,¡± what she said stung and I couldn¡¯t pretend that I wasn¡¯t hurt by it but I¡¯m pretty much bulletproof by now from what I¡¯ve had to face from the press.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be back to see my son and I better not meet you here!¡± She yelled at me before turning to leave the house.

    Hurt, I rushed back in the house to find my phone so that I could call Mason and exin what had just happened to him.

    ¡°What the hell? How on earth did she get to know that ce?¡± I could tell that he was angry, especially since he was doing nothing to hide that fact.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, I have no idea. She said a lot of hurtful things to me but I¡¯m fine.¡± I smiled as I traced my finger through the print on my cheeks.

    My cheek was hot and so red that I had to ce an ice park on it, ¡°I¡¯ll be home in the evening. I¡¯m sorry you had to go through that.¡± Mason¡¯s voice jolted me out of my thoughts.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, just be home soon.¡± I responded before hanging up to tend to my red cheek.

    MASON¡¯S POV

    I was in a meeting when my phone rang and I¡¯d wanted to ignore the call but it was Ava and there was no way I¡¯d ignore her call.

    I couldn¡¯t believe that my mother would do something as stupid asing to my house to threaten Ava. Rounding up the meeting, I booked the next first-ss ticket home.

    ¡°I¡¯d like to sue her for violent attack, harassment and I also want a restraining order on her. She shouldn¡¯t be anywhere around me or Ava.¡± I said into the phone to mywyer as I made my way to the airport.

    ¡°We¡¯ll work towards it, Sir, don¡¯t worry.¡± Mywyer assured me and I hung up immediately. I couldn¡¯t wait to be home.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    After five hours my nended and I tried to get through to Ava but her line was only ringing and there was no response from her. My fear skyrocketed and I was unable to think straight.

    Running as fast as my legs could carry me, I gged down an avable taxi and soon we were home. Rushing, I pushed the door open and my heart only calmed when I saw Ava sleeping peacefully.

    Smiling to myself, I made my way to her and kneeled in front of her. I had no intention of interrupting her sleep but her red cheek caught my attention. It was badly bruised.

    ¡°Ava, wake up. I¡¯m home.¡± I said softly as I carefully tapped her and soon her eyes were open. She yawned like a little child and that made me giggle a little.

    ¡°You¡¯re back.¡± She hugged me but I only really wanted to know who dared put hands on her like that.

    ¡°What happened? Who did this to you?¡± I asked as I pointed to her cheek and she only smiled. I recognized the smile because she only does that when trying to avoid a question.

    ¡°How was your trip? You must be so stressed.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t even try to change the topic, Ava. Who did that to you?¡± I insisted and she sighed as she told me that it was my mother.

    My fury sprang to life and I gritted my teeth, ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I apologized as I pecked her.

    ¡°I¡¯ve made necessary arrangements and I promise that that woman will nevere near us again.¡± I assured her and she smiled as I kissed her.

    ¡°How was your trip?¡± She asked again.

 Chapter 167

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The loud sound of the banging on the door jolted Mason and I out of our sleep and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me what I already knew. She already said yesterday that she was going toe back when her son was home and he¡¯s home now.

    I watched as Mason left the bed angrily and hurried downstairs while I started getting ready for work.

    ¡°Throw her out of here and I do not ever want to see her here again or you¡¯ll all lose your job.¡± His voice was loud enough that I could hear it upstairs.

    Soon, Mason and I were ready to leave for work and as soon as I got to my office I started working on the files that I¡¯d left halfway done yesterday.

    Trying to catch up with the figures and also make sure that there¡¯s no funny business going on. I looked up to see Mason hovering over me with a smile on his face.

    ¡°I have a meeting with an investor and I better leave now,¡± he informed me as he checked his wristwatch, ¡°wannae?¡± He asked.

    ¡°No,¡± I responded as I shook my head negatively, ¡°I have tons of work to do so I better focus on that. I hope your meeting goes well and please send my regards to him.¡± I smiled and he nodded as he walked out of the office.

    Focusing back on my work, the ring sound of my phone rm ringing brought it to my notice that it was time for my lunch break already.

    Closing the file I was working on, I made my way to thepany¡¯s cafeteria and there I saw Mason¡¯s secretary, we¡¯ve be good friends.

    Eating, we started talking about their trip and she told me things she thinks I should know like Mason would have left out the details.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am!¡± I heard someone call breathlessly and shocked, I tried to urge her to calm down before saying what it is she wants to tell me.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry ma¡¯am but there¡¯s someone at the lobby and she¡¯s causing a huge scene.¡± She exined as she still struggled to catch her breath.

    Mason¡¯s secretary and I shared a look of disbelief as I tried to think of who in their right state of mind would want toe to a professional area to cause a scene.

    ¡°Where are the securities?¡± I asked and she exined in the best way that she could that they¡¯ve tried to keep her out of the premises.

    ¡°She kept tossing her bag and shoes at them and it¡¯s really getting out of hand and she¡¯s yelling for you and the CEO, who by the way is in a meeting and will be unable to attend to her.¡± She added and I ced my sandwich back on the te in front of me.

    I was about to ask who it was when the door flew open and I was opportune to see who it was by myself.

    ¡°Where the hell is that bitch!¡± She yelled as she walked in and I rolled my eyes in disgust and frustration.

    Of course she¡¯s the one. Why didn¡¯t I think about her?

    Standing up, I walked towards her because I¡¯ve really had enough of her consistent nuisance constitutions and thest ce I will want to have her acting a fool is thepany.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, this is really wrong,¡± I tried to keep my anger at bay as I spoke, ¡°this is a professional area, people work here and you can¡¯t juste in here and start yelling like a maniac.¡± I said to her but she wasn¡¯t listening.

    ¡°Enough!¡± I yelled, I was tired of her already and I was d that my yell worked because she kept quiet at once, ¡°you need to respect yourself and respectfully, I¡¯m asking you to leave the premises.¡± I added calmly this time.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    She stared at me for what seemed like minutes beforeughing hysterically as she made her way closer to me. A tingling sixth sense told me to take a step back but I wanted to see what she wanted to do to me.

    Before I knew what was going on a resounding sound filled the room and for a moment all I could see were just flickers of light as I staggered and my cheek stung.

    She just pped me again!

    ¡°I thought you have an iota of shame but you have none!¡± She spat at me, ¡°you¡¯re nothing but a whore and I really can¡¯t believe how possible it was for you to fuck your own sibling!¡± She added in another yell.

    ¡°I did my homework on you!¡± She kept yelling as she turned to face the audience she¡¯d attracted, ¡°Ava¡¯s mother was nothing but a whore and she saw dating my husband as a way to get out of her miserable life that she had to get married to him!¡± She yelled and the crowd gasped.

    ¡°Like that wasn¡¯t enough, the daughter, who is also a cheap slut by the way, decided to start sleeping with my son. Shameless family!¡± She spat at me and as disgusting as it was I only cleaned her spit off my face.

    I really tried to have her calmly removed from the premise but she kept yelling horrible things about me and my mother. I could feel the sting of hot tears at the back of my eyes as my heart broke.

    Running out of the office, my bodyguard came out with me but I insisted that he leave me alone as I made my way to the parking lot.

    Unable to hold myself, I broke down in the parking lot as I clutched my tears and allowed the tears to flow freely.

    Finally calming down, I dried my tears and I was about to leave when I saw a car parked just in front of me and all of a sudden I felt someone grab my arm.

    I wanted to scream but I felt a handkerchief on my face and soon everything became blurry and thest thing I remember was being carried.

 Chapter 168

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Groaning, my head spun and for a moment everything around me was pitch dark that I couldn¡¯t see anything around me. Trying to stand up and struggling to open my eyes.

    The room that was once dark became bright and it took a while for my eyes to finally adapt to the surroundings. Blinking, I finally opened my eyes properly to see Chad in front of me.

    He had a wicked smile on his face and he was standing with a man. The man doesn¡¯t look familiar and this was the first time that I¡¯ll be seeing him.

    I¡¯d tried to stand and that was when I realized that I was bound tight, my hands and legs were tied so tight that even if I tried I couldn¡¯t possibly get out of the rope.

    ¡°Let me go!¡± I tried to yell but it only came out muffled because of the duct tape on my mouth.

    ¡°There¡¯s no use fighting,¡± the unfamiliar man spoke and Chad¡¯s cynicalughter filled the room as he mocked my state of helplessness.

    ¡°We have you now and struggling will only hurt you more than we intend to hurt you,¡± he added with a smirk, ¡°although we have no idea if we only want to hurt you or kill you yet. That will be decided when we hear from Mason.¡± He added amidstughter and my stomach churned.

    It felt as if there was a tight knot in my stomach and as if that wasn¡¯t enough, I saw the face that I¡¯ve gotten so used to seeing for two days walking into the room.

    What is she doing here?

    ¡°Thank you for saying those things to her and luring her out of the office.¡± Chad smiled as he handed Mason¡¯s mother a huge ck bag.

    My breath got caught in my throat when she opened the bag and I saw that it was filled with money. She¡¯d done what she did intentionally.

    She purposely came to the office to say those awful things about me and my mother because she knew I wouldn¡¯t be able to take anymore and sooner thanter I¡¯ll run out of the office.

    ¡°You disgusting pig!¡± I spat when the man pulled the duct tape on my mouth, giving me back my freedom of speech, ¡°I expected a lot of things from you but I never expected that you¡¯ll act so lowly.¡± I added disdainfully.

    The sight of her alone disgusted me and I just wished that I could break her jaw. I couldn¡¯t believe that a woman like her birthed the man I¡¯m in love with.

    ¡°Say whatever, you can¡¯t hurt me with your words,¡± she shrugged before bursting intoughter, ¡°well, if you need me I¡¯ll be in Mexico enjoying all of these.¡± She finished, unting the money she¡¯d just gotten from aiding my kidnap as she walked out.

    ¡°You see, it didn¡¯t really have to get to this.¡± Chad shrugged as he squatted in front of me. His finger brushed my cheek and I spat on his face but I regretted immediately because I felt a sting like never before on my cheek.

    Holding and squeezing my face as he made sure that I was staring directly into his eyes, ¡°if you had just acted right, if you had just stayed out of our business and loved me the same way you love your stepbrother.¡± He added, I knew he called Mason my stepbrother in a bid to taunt me.

    ¡°If you had just stopped ying hard to get and love me like you¡¯re supposed to then you wouldn¡¯t be here.¡± He snapped before releasing my face so suddenly.

    Scared, I watched as Chad pulled out his phone and dialed a number. I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that the person they were calling was Mason because the phone was set on speaker.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Who is this?¡± Mason demanded as soon as he answered and Chad took the Liberty to talk to him.

    ¡°Who do you think it is?¡± Chad responded with a question of his own, ¡°I told you I was going to get you.¡± Heughed.

    ¡°What the hell do you want?¡± Mason snarled at them, he had no idea that I was there, ¡°I¡¯m warning you Chad and this will be thest time, stay away from me.¡± Mason warned.

    ¡°Don¡¯t hang up so soon,¡± Chad mocked as if he knew that Mason was about to hang up, ¡°we have Ava.¡± He finished and after a while of silence Mason bursted outughing.

    ¡°You know for a moment there you were actually funny,¡± Mason said amidstughter, ¡°But Ava is at work and I know better than to fall for your cheap trick.¡± He added, oblivious to the fact that Chad was in fact right about being there with them.

    ¡°You¡¯re smarter than this, man, you should also know better than running your mouth like you have no control over it.¡± Chad snapped back at Mason who was stillughing.

    ¡°How do I believe she¡¯s with you?¡± His voice came from over the phone and with a blink of Chad¡¯s eyes the unfamiliar man stabbed my arm and the pain was so unbearable that I couldn¡¯t help the loud scream of agony that escaped my mouth.

    ¡°You have your proof,¡± Chad smiled as he walked towards me, ¡°if you want your Ava alive and healthy then all you have to do is simple.¡± He started, patting my cheeks as if cleaning the tears.

    ¡°Transfer thepany to me, let everything be in my name or your precious little Ava here will die.¡± Chad finished and before Mason could say something else he hung the call up.

    My chest tightened and I got even more scared as I sobbed, my stomach churning and for the first time since that night my mind drifted off to the nightmare I had.

    It¡¯s alling true and now, because of me, Mason is going to lose everything he owns.

 Chapter 169

    Mason¡¯s POV

    The well ventted conference room I was in with one of the investors suddenly felt stuffy when I heard Ava scream out in pain.

    I just couldn¡¯t help but imagine what he was doing to her, how was he even able to get her? I¡¯d thought that she was in the office, I thought she was safe, especially since she never goes anywhere without her bodyguard.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever you want, just stop hurting¡­¡± I was still talking when I heard the call click, ¡°Hello?¡± I called back into the phone but Chad had already hung up.

    I tried calling the number back but I was unable to because it doesn¡¯t even have an ID. What do I do now? I really need to save Ava, I can¡¯t have her get hurt.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Are you okay?¡± The investor asked when I pulled my jacket off and I just couldn¡¯t hold back. I was breaking inside of me, I was dying.

    The sound of Ava¡¯s scream rang again in my head and I just couldn¡¯t help but think of the worse, ¡°It¡¯s Chad.¡± I answered but he only looked confused.

    Sighing and trying to summon what¡¯s left of my courage, I exined everything about Chad to him from how he had stolen money from thepany to how he¡¯d been stalking Ava that he¡¯d kidnapped her now and is asking for me to handover thepany to him.

    ¡°That¡¯s horrible,¡± The investor breathed but I was already trying to think of what my next line of action would be.

    ¡°But you have to calm down, you really can¡¯t just hand over yourpany to him. We can figure out a way to avert all of these and save Ava instead of giving him thepany.¡± He exined.

    He had no idea how special Ava is to me, if he knew how much I loved her he wouldn¡¯t have suggested that I waste any time in handing thepany over to Chad.

    Without listening to him, I immediately rushed out of the conference room to call my Lawyer, ¡°gather thepany papers and put everything in Chad¡¯s name.¡± I said as soon as he answered the call.

    ¡°What?¡± He asked, obviously surprised by what I¡¯d decided to do, ¡°You¡¯re transferring thepany into Chad¡¯s name?¡± He asked again and my blood boiled in anger as I clenched my fist and if he was anywhere around me I would¡¯ve punched him.

    ¡°I know what I said, god damn it, just get the damn papers ready in Chad¡¯s name and bring it over for me to sign.¡± I ordered and hung up without wanting to hear one more word from him.

    Worried, scared and impatient, I paced around my office for about an hour as I waited for mywyer to get the papers ready and soon he came to my office so I could sign on the papers.

    Signing it, I picked it up as I left my office, ¡°Mason, think about this, you can¡¯t just handover what you¡¯ve worked so hard for to someone else now.¡± The investor said, making me stop in my tracks as I turned to look at him.

    ¡°It¡¯s Ava!¡± I yelled, ¡°she means so much more to me than any other thing and I will give everything up for her if that guarantees her safety.¡± I added but calmly this time.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for leaving the meeting like this but I really have to go, we¡¯ll reschedule.¡± I apologized and the investor gave a smile of approval.

    ¡°Be safe.¡± He patted my shoulder and hurriedly, I turned to leave thepany so I could tell Chad that I already have what he wants from me.

    Getting to my car, I had no idea where I was driving to so I called Chad and someone else picked the call but I didn¡¯t care about who I was talking to, all I cared about was to know if Ava was safe.

    ¡°I have the papers, I signed them already and I¡¯m ready to give it all up,¡± I said into the phone breathlessly, ¡°is Ava alright?¡± I asked.

    ¡°Very good, I¡¯ll send you the address and an instruction to follow,¡± the man answered, ¡°you have toe alone, no cops and don¡¯t try to act funny or you¡¯ll lose your precious girlfriend.¡± He warned.

    Understanding the instructions, I assured him q that I wasing alone and not with anyone. He hung up and soon my phone chimed.

    ¡®358 Harrison St, San Francisco, CA 94206. Drop the papers on the bench you find there and go home.¡¯

    The text read and I felt a little bit calm as I drove to the address in hopes that I was going to find Ava there. I got to the address and was disappointed when I didn¡¯t find Ava.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    Looking around, I dropped the documents on the bench. My phone chimed again and I picked it up to see that it was a text from an unknown number.

    ¡®I¡¯m at the park, can youe pick me up please. -Ava.¡¯

    Something about the text seemed off but I was too worried to care about it. Hurriedly, I drove to the park and a wave of relief swept through me when I saw Ava.

    She seemed fine although she had a bloody arm and her hand held the arm so tightly I guess it was to stop the bleeding.

    ¡°Ava!¡± I called as I ran toward her, she was equally happy to see me but too weak to run to me. Getting to her, I pulled her into me as I held her like I was never going to let go.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, I¡¯m sorry, are you okay? You¡¯re hurt.¡± I pointed out as I kissed her forehead, cheeks and hair before hugging her again.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, it¡¯s just the bleeding,¡± she answered with a weak smile, ¡°Chad released me because the man suggested they kill me when hees back.¡± She cried and my heart ached.

    ¡°D¡­ did you really sign away yourpany?¡± She asked amidst tears.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll do anything for you and I¡¯m just d that¡­¡± I was still talking when Ava fell in my arms.

 Chapter 170

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Seeing Ava in that state ofa was the scariest thing I¡¯ve ever seen. I never expected that after what had happened with Aisha that Ava will ever be in this state again.

    ¡°How¡¯s she doing, doc?¡± I asked when the doctor left her room toe to us in the waiting room. I¡¯d wanted to follow them in but I was asked to wait around instead.

    ¡°She¡¯s doing well, her vitals are stable and she¡¯s just in a state of shock but you can¡¯t see her now, she needs to rest.¡± He exined and a wave of relief swept through me as I let out a breath that I had no idea I was holding.

    ¡°Mason, oh my god.¡± Ava¡¯s mother¡¯s voice jolted me out of my doze and I lifted my gaze to see her and my father in the hospital already,

    I wasn¡¯t expecting them to be here so soon, especially since they were like miles away. Standing up, I fell on my father¡¯s arm and I couldn¡¯t help the tears that streamed down my eyes as I held him.

    ¡°I thought I lost her, I really thought I¡­¡± my voice faded off as I sniffled, I couldn¡¯t even bring myself to think about losing Ava ever.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, she¡¯s fine now.¡± He assured me as I pulled away from him to hug Ava¡¯s mother. She also assured me that Ava was going to be fine especially since she¡¯s a strong woman.

    They¡¯re right, Ava has been through things that could¡¯ve broken her but she only came back stronger than she was.

    ******

    Standing by her bedside, I watched as her full beautiful hair fell on her face and I slowly moved it away. She groaned and turned before flickering her eyes open.

    My happiness knew no bounds and I had no idea how heavy my weight was on her until she let out a painful wince.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I apologized as Iughed nervously and pulled away from her. I watched as our parents hovered over her and told her about how happy they were to know that she¡¯s okay.

    Finally regaining her strength, Ava exined everything to me and she¡¯d even told me about how my mother was in on the n, she had no idea I knew about it already.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, she was arrested in Mexico yesterday but Chad and his aplice are still nowhere to be found.¡± I sighed as I sat beside her.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry,¡± she apologized like what had happened was her fault, ¡°What will you do about thepany?¡± She enquired and I let out a heavy sigh.

    ¡°I have another one,¡± Iughed, I never want her to feel like I¡¯ve lost it all because of her, ¡°myst trip out of town was to finalize the otherpany and merge it with the one here but since things has taken a wrong turn I¡¯ll just build it up from scratch.¡± I revealed and I could tell that Ava was shocked due to the look on her face.

    ¡°I¡¯ll help you with it.¡± She assured me and soon we sprung into action, she didn¡¯t care about her current state.

    Reaching out to my business partners, I tried to exin in the best way I could that I was no longer associated with my oldpany and that I have a new one already.

    Soon, my business partners kept growing and they started cutting ties with thepany I handed over to Chad to join my new one.

    ¡°You¡¯re such a genius!¡± Ava proimed as she pulled me into her and my lipsnded on hers. I could taste the metallic feel of blood on the side of her lips but I couldn¡¯t care less.

    I missed everything about her, the way she smelled, the way she tasted and I just can¡¯t wait to have her back.

    ¡°You know, I miss you so much.¡± I whispered into her mouth as my fingers traced her bare arm and Ava moaned in my mouth.

    We¡¯d both forgotten about where we were until the door opened and the doctor walked in, making us disengage from each other¡¯s arms.

    ¡°You need to excuse us, Sir so we can do a quick check up on her.¡± The doctor exined before putting his stethoscope in his ear.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon, I promise.¡± I said, leaning in to kiss Ava¡¯s forehead as I made my way out of the wardroom.

    Hurriedly, I made my way to the jewelry store as I tried to look for the perfect ring for her.

    FLASHBACK

    ¡°Well, I really like something simple, you know just a gorgeous ring with a tiny Diamond on top will do it for me.¡± Avaughed casually as she told me the kind of ring she likes.

    Smiling, I watched as she exined to me with the brightest and widest smile I have ever seen in my life how she wished her wedding would go and my whole being just wanted to make that wishe true.

    ______

    Getting into the jewelry store, I looked around for a while before finally finding the perfect ring for her. It was a silver ring and just like she¡¯d said she wanted, it had a tiny Diamond on top and tiny atoms of sapphire was what was holding the Diamond ring.

    It was the most gorgeous ring I¡¯ve ever set my eyes on.

    Hurriedly, I paid for it and asked the jeweler to pack it for me before anyone else would think of taking it. Staring at the beautiful ring, I closed the case as I smiled at myself.

    I¡¯m going to finally propose to her, she¡¯s going to be my better half, my wife and the excitement I felt couldn¡¯t be contained.

    I can¡¯t wait to finally get on one knee and ask her the question.

    Making my way to the car, I drove home after talking to my parents. They were watching Ava while I went home to change and hide the ring.

    Ava will be my wife soon.

 Chapter 171

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ONE WEEK LATER.

    The past week has been hectic and I was only grateful to be alive and with Mason. I got discharged and was asked to rest.

    Groaning, I sat on the couch as I turned the TV on to watch the news. I¡¯d decided to make myself a bowl of cereal when the news about Mason¡¯spany broadcasted.

    The reporter affirmed that Mason¡¯s oldpany was nearing bankruptcy while the new one was making huge waves and even growing.

    I was so proud of Mason that I couldn¡¯t hide my proud smile as I prepared my cereal and made my way back to the living room to watch the news to the end.

    I still couldn¡¯t believe the fact that Mason was ready to hand over thepany to Chad for my own safety, the thought of it made the butterflies in my stomach increase and my cheeks felt really hot.

    ¡°The newpany is said to be making the sum of fifty million dors a day which seemed almost impossible for a newpany but this one had decided to break the record.¡± The reporter¡¯s voice jolted me out of my thoughts.

    Invested, I made sure to see the news to the end and just when the news was ending my mother came down the stairs and it seemed as though she was just waking up.

    ¡°How are you doing?¡± She asked, sinking into the couch beside me and taking my bowl of cereal from me.

    I told her I was fine and grateful that she and Danny had decided to stay with Mason and I through all of this crazy moment.

    ¡°You¡¯re still my baby girl, if I don¡¯t show up for you who will?¡± She asked with a shrug that made me burst outughing.

    She finished the cereal and we both did some menial chores around the house before deciding to go to the spa and have our girls time.

    ¡°Have you ever put any thought into having children?¡± My mother asked and I could swear that I choked on my face mask even though it wasn¡¯t in my mouth.

    The thought of having kids alone was so scary that I tried not to think about it but it seemed like my mother would not drop it.

    ¡°You and Mason,¡± she added, ¡°what does he think about it?¡± She asked again after a while of silence. I was trying to process my answer but there¡¯s no use lying to her.

    ¡°We haven¡¯t put too much thought into it yet.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡± She asked, almost shaking, that thedy asked her to remain still, ¡°I mean, I think it¡¯s what¡¯s next for you both.¡± She added.

    Turning to look at her, ¡°I¡¯m scared, mom.¡± I sighed, my voice was so low that I was surprised that she could hear me, ¡°having a baby is like giving away a part of myself, the part I¡¯ll never get back and it¡¯s scary.¡± I added.

    The silence that prevailed between us told me that my mother understood well what I meant and she¡¯s only thinking of what to say to get me to get rid of that mentality.

    ¡°I know,¡± she finally spoke up, ¡°and you¡¯re right. You will be giving a part of yourself away that you¡¯ll never get back but really it is worth it.¡± She continued.

    ¡°Motherhood is a really beautiful feeling and a whole new adventure that I know damn well that you¡¯ll love.¡± She added with a smile and I let out a sigh.

    ¡°But, it¡¯s too risky. I mean, do I really want to do this?¡± I responded, ¡°I love Mason so much but still.¡± I added, confused.

    ¡°You¡¯re confused right now but let me tell you, you answered the question already. You love him and I know you¡¯ll do anything for him but this is about you and we both know that life is all about taking risks,¡± she started.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    ¡°So, ask yourself this question and make your decision based on your answer. Is he worth taking that risk for? Do you really want to do this?¡± She finished with a sigh.

    Without saying another word, weid silently as we did our facials, manicure and pedicure and soon we were done.

    We drove back home and my mother left me in the house to go on a date with her husband. Trying to keep myself busy, I decided to clean Mason¡¯s study.

    I was clearing his drawer when I saw a piece of paper. Curious, I opened it and Iughed as I reminisced. It was the paper of bucket lists that Mason had made for me.

    Looking back in retrospect, the wave of how far Mason and I havee hit me like a really hard breeze. Despite all of the obstacles and hardship, Mason and I still have each other.

    It wasn¡¯t an easy journey for the two of us.

    Pulling out my phone, I called Mason so I could tell him about how much I miss him and can¡¯t wait for him toe home to him.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be home soon, you don¡¯t have to miss me too much because trust me I¡¯ll always be with you.¡± He answered and my heart soared.

    Hanging up the call, I finished cleaning his study and made my way back to the living room to rest a bit when the door opened and Mason walked in.

    He looked a thousand times hotter in a suit and it felt like I haven¡¯t seen him in a suit before, he was holding a box of pizza and made his way to me to kiss me hungrily.

    Opening up a bottle of champagne, we decided on the movie to watch as we ate, ¡°you know, we deserve a vacation.¡± He started with his mouth filled with Pizza.

    ¡°We really do.¡± I nodded as I agreed with him and he promised that we¡¯ll go on a vacation once the police are able to catch Chad and his aplice.

    ¡°Where do you think?¡± He asked as we spoke and for a moment I was nk until it clicked again, I¡¯ve always wanted to go on a vacation there.

    ¡°Maldives!¡± I responded cheerily.

 Chapter 172

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Sighing, I sought to leave the restaurant to go back to thepany and tend to my business.

    My business was really booming and the growth was so rapid that even I was taken aback by how much people had gotten to know about my newpany and how much sales I make in a week.

    Going through the lists of thepany¡¯s investors it wasn¡¯t hard to tell how rich they all are, ¡°at this point, thepany will be one of the biggest in the city.¡± I smiled to myself as I set down the paper to go through another.

    I was d that they really believed in me and what I could do enough to invest in mypany.

    While I was soliloquizing the door opened, jolting me out of my thoughts and I opened my eyes to see my secretary already in my office.

    ¡°Is anything the problem?¡± I asked, dropping the paper I had with me so I could hear her out.

    ¡°Nothing Sir,¡± she responded, ¡°except, you have an urgent call from one of the directors of thepany.¡± She added, cing a file that I assumed to be my schedule for the week on my table.

    ¡°From who? And did they say what it¡¯s about?¡± I enquired but she only shook her head negatively, she¡¯d only taken the message and delivered it to me.

    Dismissing her, I told her to connect me to the call as soon as she left my office and not long after she left, the telephone in my office rang and I picked it.

    ¡°Hello.¡± I said into the phone, clueless and curious at the same time. I had no idea why one of the directors would be calling so urgently.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, do I know who this is?¡± I asked with a raised eyebrow and the man introduced himself to me properly this time. I¡¯ve never heard of him before but he was assertive and I could take advantage of that.

    ¡°So what do you think about having lunch with me?¡± He asked, ¡°because I really have something important to discuss with you, it¡¯s pressing and I¡¯d have said it over the phone but it¡¯s more of a physical discussion.¡± He added after a while of silence.

    ¡°That¡¯s fine,¡± I shrugged as I picked up a pen and paper, ¡°call out the address and I should meet you there in, let¡¯s say twenty minutes?¡± I added.

    The man called out the address for me and I scribbled it on the piece of paper that I¡¯d picked out already. Hanging up the call, I silently hoped that something good was going toe out of this meeting.

    He¡¯s a potential person so I¡¯d decided to discuss thepany with him and also ask for his help in running the new branch.

    Picking up my car keys and the piece of paper, I immediately drove down to the address he¡¯d called out to me so we could meet.

    Getting there, I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that he was the man I was looking for, except he looks so stern and mad at the world but I shrugged it off.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°You called me earlier?¡± I asked with a raised eyebrow and his nod made me let out a slight smile as I stretched out my hand for a proposed greeting.

    ¡°Let¡¯s just leave out the formalities and get down to business.¡± He growled at me, ignoring my greeting as he had his seat and confused, I also sat.

    He sounded nicer when we haven¡¯t met than now, I began to feel ufortable and I started hating agreeing to this meeting when I could¡¯ve just declined.

    The thump of a briefcase on the table jolted me out of my thoughts as I returned my gaze to him, ¡°what¡¯s this?¡± I asked, really confused.

    ¡°That¡¯s 50 million dors and it¡¯s just for starters,¡± the man responded as he opened the briefcase and my stomach churned. I hated the fact that I knew where this was going already.

    ¡°Quit being the CEO and this right here and more will be yours,¡± he continued as he rested his back against the chair properly, ¡°Sell thepany to me.¡± He finally finished and I could hear a series of loud bells ringing in my head.

    Fresh anger rose in me and if it weren¡¯t for formalities I would have punched this man right on the face and broken his jaw.

    Angrily, I sprung to my feet as I looked around in anger and disbelief, I had to rush to this meeting very early, leaving all the important work that I had been doing alone at the office because I wanted to at least get acknowledged by someone else other than my secretary and Ava, only for me to get here and see this.

    The son of a bitch is offering me a bribe to step down from my post!

    ¡°I don¡¯t get it, you told me you have a pressing issue to discuss with me and I get here now to listen to you ask me to step down from my post? What the hell?¡± I was almost yelling but the man couldn¡¯t care less about my outburst.

    Letting out a heavy breath and trying to calm myself down because I had no idea how much more calmness I had in me before I turned the tables.

    ¡°Why on earth would you ask me to do something like that?¡± I finally asked and the sound of the man¡¯s cynicalughter made my stomach tighten as I clenched my jaw in utter anger.

    He really is pushing me over the edge.

    ¡°It¡¯s quite simple, Mason,¡± he started when he stoppedughing,  ¡°You¡¯re just not fit to be the CEO.¡± He finished, standing up from his seat.

    ¡°For one, you¡¯re dating your own sister and bringing unnecessary attention to thepany, you¡¯re spoiling thepany¡¯s good name and that¡¯s why I had toe in.¡± He further exined.

    ¡°You just don¡¯t deserve it, Mason and you know I¡¯m right.¡±

 Chapter 173

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Leaving for work, I decided to push the thought of the shenanigans happening to the back of my head. Ava, my secretary and I were going to have our usual morning meeting with the employees.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    ¡°Just encourage them and all you have to say, the answers to their questions are in here, I know you can memorize them before we get there.¡± Ava handed me a file that I opened at once.

    She always does this every morning when we have a meeting. She would brief me on what to say and how to address the employees and I was grateful for that.

    The meeting was a sess and everyone was pleased at the way I¡¯d answered their questions and they¡¯d even suggested that they wanted to throw a wee party for me since I¡¯m their CEO.

    ¡°It¡¯s just a way to make you feel wee here plus, it¡¯s a new branch and we want you to know that we¡¯ll work as hard as possible to make it grow just the way you want it to.¡± One of them spoke and I felt really special.

    I couldn¡¯t help the smile that formed on my face but I also didn¡¯t really want them to think that they had to throw a party for me.

    ¡°We¡¯ll be d if you ept this, you¡¯re not just the CEO, you gave many of us employment opportunities. We wouldn¡¯t be here today if it weren¡¯t for you.¡± Another spoke up and I could hear the butterflies in my stomach.

    ¡°I¡¯m really d that you all love and respect me so much and for that I¡¯m really grateful but¡­¡± I was still talking and about to reject the offer when Ava nudged me, ¡°a minute please.¡± I added as I went somewhere private with her.

    ¡°You can¡¯t say no to them,¡± she started and I raised an eyebrow, ¡°they really want this and you need it too. You¡¯ll break their heart if you say no so just ept it and let it go. It¡¯s just one party.¡± Ava persuaded.

    Her eyes searched mine for answers that I was sure to hide beneath as I made my way back to the meeting room without actually answering her.

    ¡°Like I was saying,¡± I cleared my throat, ¡°it¡¯s just a party. Let¡¯s have it!¡± I yelled and the room got filled with happy cheers.

    We all agreed to have the party at night in a decent restaurant and after talking about it, the meeting ended with everyone looking happy like we¡¯ve achieved something.

    Everyone went back to their posts while Ava and I made our way to my office, she handed the minutes of the meeting for me to go through.

    ¡°Go through this too and sign it, I need it before the end of today.¡± She added as she handed me some other documents, I loved that she¡¯s taking part in my growth and also helping me out with it.

    Taking the documents from her, I went through it carefully while Ava made coffee for me and ced it carefully on my table.

    ¡°I have some errands to run down the building at the clerk¡¯s office so if you need me just call my cell.¡± She informed me as she leaned in to kiss me before walking out of the office.

    Going through the files, I pushed the one Ava had asked for my signature on aside so I¡¯ll be able to go through it properly with undivided attention.

    When I was done with the rest I finally picked it back up and I was impressed at the proposal, the pitching of the ideas and how organized everything was.

    When I was done reading, I scribbled my signature on the different parts that needed it. Tired, I groaned as I pulled out my tie and took off my jacket as I rested back on the chair with my eyes closed and my fingers massaging the tip of my nose.

    I really can¡¯t wait to go for that vacation that Ava and I spoke about. Work¡¯s really stressing me out but it is also a good thing.

    The door to my office opened and I flung my eyes open at once to see who it was when I saw the man who¡¯d asked for me to step down from my post walk into my office with another man carrying three big bags.

    I wished I could takew in my hands and do something to this man but I couldn¡¯t.

    My disgust skyrocketed when he sat down before I asked him to, he had a smirk on his face and I retched within me as I closed my eyes in frustration.

    I hated him after that day and I wasn¡¯tfortable with the kind of aura he emits, he seemed like bad news.

    ¡°Do you need anything?¡± I asked, my voice showing my disgust and anger with each word I said.

    ¡°Even if you did, you could¡¯ve just sent me an email or called me on the phone, you didn¡¯t have toe to my office like this.¡± I added and the man bursted outughing which got me even angrier.

    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you?¡± He asked amidstughter, ¡°Just because you¡¯re the CEO already you¡¯re beginning to act like you own the position.¡± He added, his face had gone back to being stern and disgusting.

    With a nod of his head the man that followed him ced the bags on my table but I asked him to drop it once.

    ¡°Whatever it is you¡¯re about to say or ask me to do,  I¡¯m not interested,¡± I snarled at him, ¡°so you can leave with your bags of dirty money because I don¡¯t need any of it.¡± I added sternly and the mocking look on his face slowly began to disappear.

    ¡°Mason, you¡¯re such a child,¡± he said with a kind of tone that made chills go down my spine.

    ¡°You¡¯re forgetting that we all included our shares to make thepany grow to this.¡± He shot at me with his eyes red and zing with anger.

 Chapter 174

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I made my way to the lower floor with Mason¡¯s Secretary, she had the date fixed for the opening party of thepany and decided to announce it to the employees.

    ¡°So guys, the party will be on the 25th of this month which is this weekend and I really expect a lot from you guys,¡± I started as the employees listened keenly. Mason was too busy to attend but they didn¡¯t mind.

    ¡°I expect diligence and like we always do, I expect everyone to take part in every activity because none of us will be able to do it alone.¡± I added.

    The room got filled with murmurs from the employees as they discussed the different posts that they would like to help out in and it made me happy that they agreed to be so involved.

    Mason¡¯s Secretary and I both went to book the hall we¡¯d be using for the party and we also checked to make sure that the food and drinks were also in check.

    Everything was sessfully nned and everyone was working so hard to ensure the sess of the party that the only thing left was for the actual party to take ce and neither of us could wait for it.

    Going about the business, Mason and I have been so busy that neither of us really had enough time for our personal outing.

    I enjoyed working with him and I loved the fact that his newpany was gaining the fame that his oldpany once had and even more than that.

    Checking the time, I hurried to Mason¡¯s office and just when I got there the door to his office opened again and the secretary walked in.

    ¡°Your stamps and signature are needed on these documents so that I can also begin working on it and send them out as soon as possible before taking our next step.¡± The Secretary announced with a smile as she dropped the documents on his table.

    Mason didn¡¯t smile back and he¡¯d only picked up the documents and started stamping it without even doing as little as going through it.

    I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me that something was bothering Mason because he would never sign on any documents without actually reading it first.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°You know what,¡± I started, cing my hand on his and taking the stamp from him as I stopped him from stamping any further, ¡°just do thister.¡± I added with a smile that he only returned with a sigh.

    ¡°You can go now, leave the documents and when he has gone through it he¡¯ll sign it and I can even bring it back to you myself.¡± I assured the secretary who picked up the documents she knew that Mason would¡¯ve worked on before leaving the office.

    Leaving my seat, I went to lock the door before turning back to make my way to Mason as I had my seat in front of him.

    I wanted him to talk to me and tell me about what is bothering him since his mood was never like this.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter with you? You don¡¯t look so good, are you okay?¡± I asked and Mason only let out a heavy sigh as he rested his back on his ergonomic chair.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± He groaned, rubbing the tip of his nose with his eyes closed and I knew better than to believe what he¡¯d just told me.

    Leaving my seat, ¡°C¡¯mon, you really don¡¯t expect me to believe that you¡¯re fine now, really?¡± I asked as I moved his hand from his face while sitting on his table so I was looking at him properly.

    ¡°Talk to me, what¡¯s really going on?¡± I probed and he finally opened his eyes, his eyes carried the weight of worry that he was feeling inside and I just couldn¡¯t ignore it.

    ¡°It¡¯s this director,¡± he started, ¡°he¡¯s been offering me money and threats too asking me to give up my position as the CEO.¡± He spoke.

    Mason finally let it all out to me and told me how long it had been going on because the director had also gone as far as asking him to sell the entirepany to him.

    ¡°Look at me,¡± I started, lifting his gaze so that he¡¯ll meet mine, ¡°it¡¯s yourpany and no one else¡¯s.¡± I added with a smile.

    ¡°You already have a lot of people supporting you, helping you, wanting to see you seed and if you have that many people with you then tell me how much power that director has over you.¡± I said and it felt like some sort of revtion because his worry began to fade.

    ¡°Fuck him,¡± Iughed, ¡°if he doesn¡¯t enjoy seeing you as the CEO then he should just go to hell.¡± I added and Mason bursted outughing.

    ¡°Thank you, I feel better now.¡± He smiled, his mood had changed and he¡¯s already cheered up again. Pulling me into him, we kissed for a while and before it turned into something else I broke the kiss.

    ¡°You have work to do.¡± I pointed out as I stared at the documents on his table. Mason groaned as he picked up the documents and started going through them while I went out of his office.

    Picking up my phone, I called Nicole and she was so excited to hear my voice. It¡¯s been long since west spoke to each other with everything going on. I¡¯ve been too busy to call her.

    We spent hours talking about things and catching up on stuff that we didn¡¯t get to talk about. She was still in shock that Chad could turn out to be that kind of person.

    ¡°People aren¡¯t really always who they appear to be, I¡¯m just d you¡¯re okay now.¡± She sighed and I smiled.

    Nicole¡¯s daughter will be three years old in two weeks time and she said she needed my help nning her child¡¯s birthday.

 Chapter 175

    Mason¡¯s POV

    It¡¯s been days and I was d that the director hadn¡¯te to my office or even tried to contact me so that he could bribe me.

    He probably realizes that no matter how hard he tries I¡¯ll never do what he¡¯s asking me to do. It¡¯s mypany like Ava said, my post and whatever I decide goes.

    ¡°What do you think?¡± I asked, Ava and I have been discussing moving day and since thepany would be opening soon we couldn¡¯t possibly keep traveling back and forth.

    ¡°Living there permanently will save us a lot of stress, we don¡¯t have to keep going there anding back here only to go back there again.¡± I pointed it out to her.

    I knew Ava had always been quick to understand but I also wanted her to see the reason why moving from here is the best idea.

    ¡°I know,¡± she responded with a nostalgic expression and I could tell that she probably doesn¡¯t just want to leave this ce behind.

    ¡°It¡¯s just, there¡¯s a lot of things here. Lots of memories and I don¡¯t know.¡± She finally let out after a while of silence and I pulled her into me to kiss her forehead.

    ¡°I understand, it¡¯s as hard for me as it is for you too but we can¡¯t keep staying here.¡± I said, my voice persuading her to agree to us moving out of here.

    ¡°So, since you¡¯ve thought about it. When do you n on moving?¡± She asked with a raised eyebrow as she pulled on my nose.

    Her eyes were closing already and I knew that there was nothing I could do to keep her eyes open. She¡¯s tired and really needs to rest because of how much she¡¯d stressed herself out already today.

    ¡°After the opening party, I haven¡¯t put too much thought into it but it¡¯ll only make sense if we move after the party.¡± I answered and she smiled before breaking into a yawn.

    ¡°I¡¯ll think about it but right now I¡¯m really tired.¡± She responded and I smiled as she turned so that she could be the little spoon and I¡¯d be cuddling her.

    The silent room soon filled with her slight breath and I smiled as I gazed into space. I really am lucky to have her and I¡¯m d that she decided to give our rtionship multiple chances.

    ¡°I love you.¡± I whispered as I kissed her hair and yawned. I was also tired and needed to rest, especially if I¡¯ll be going through with my n tomorrow.

    ********

    It¡¯s the opening day tonight and Ava has been too busy to even give herself a chance to look good for the event so I just decided to take it on myself.

    Patiently waiting for her, I smiled when she walked downstairs in her pajamas and her eyes still closed. Despite looking a mess she still is the most beautiful person I have ever seen.

    ¡°Good Morning,¡± Ava kissed me before pouring herself a ss of water, ¡°you made breakfast?¡± She gasped and just when I wanted to invite her to join me she¡¯d already invited herself.

    Talking over breakfast, I told her about my n to take her to the salon so she could get her hair done and after that we¡¯ll also go shopping for the event tonight.

    ¡°It¡¯s tonight, we still have time.¡± She said with a mouthful of steak and I insisted that there was not much time, therefore we have to be fast with whatever it is we wanted to do if we¡¯re going to make it to the party.

    Agreeing, Ava and I went to get ready and we both had our bath together which was so much fun before leaving.

    Taking her to the salon, I couldn¡¯t help but watch with so much love as she did her hair and nails after which I picked out a red dress for her.

    The gown had a tiny strap that¡¯ll enable me to hand my jacket over to her if she ever felt cold. Smiling, I handed it to her and she looked like royalty when they were done with her makeup.

    ¡°You¡¯re absolutely gorgeous.¡± I breathed when she was done, my fingers tingled as skimmed over her soft skin and I just couldn¡¯t have enough of her.

    Her figure was regal and her soft shoulders called to me. Without kissing, I leaned in to kiss her shoulder while she just threw her head back.

    Her scent was so feminine, so inviting and if I could I would ruin the job the stylists had done and take her right there and then but I can¡¯t.

    Doing my hair too, Ava picked out my suit and looking at how we were both wearing matching outfits was so romantic.

    Ready, we both went to the party and I was shocked at the turn-up. Ava and I took pictures on the red carpet and just when we were about to leave reporters flooded us.

    ¡°Mr. Mason, why did you leave the branch that just opened just to open another one and how did you make it a huge sess?¡±

    ¡°Here¡¯s our card, Sir, we really will appreciate it if you can have an interview with us.¡±

    The voices were too much that I couldn¡¯t keep up and I was d that my secretary was around to have the entire thing under control.

    ¡°You both look¡­¡­ absolutely gorgeous.¡± Sheplimented us, her jaw dropping as she stared at us and I couldn¡¯t help the smile that formed on my lips as I pulled Ava into me.

    ¡°Thank you, is my speech ready?¡± I asked and she nodded at once as she handed me a piece of paper. Kissing Ava, I made my way to the stage to address the guests.

    Dinner was soon served after my speech, ¡°May I have this dance?¡± I bowed in an old fashioned way as I took Ava to the dance floor.

    We danced all night and I suggested that we left the party early, I can¡¯t wait to unveil my next n for Ava.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    She¡¯s going to be pleasantly surprised.

 Chapter 176

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Watching Mason on that stage tonight was everything, I couldn¡¯t help the tears of joy that trickled down my face as he gave his speech.

    I¡¯m really proud of him.

    We ate dinner and I danced with Mason. He seemed in so much hurry as he persuaded me to leave the party early with him.

    ¡°I was just getting to enjoy it.¡± I sighed and pouted as Mason took me out of the party but he didn¡¯t listen to me.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll love this too, get in.¡± He ordered and something about how excited he seemed made me shrug as I hoped that I really will enjoy where he was taking me to.

    The drive to the hotel was silent but Mason didn¡¯t stop smiling, lots of questions ran through my mind as I stole nces at him.

    ¡°C¡¯mon, tell me. What is it?¡± I asked, my curiosity showing in every word I said but Mason didn¡¯t answer and soon we got to the hotel.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry but I have to do this.¡± Mason smiled as he blindfolded me as soon as we checked in. I¡¯d tried to protest and tell him I¡¯ll be unable to see anything but he helped me all the way.

    The walk to our room felt like the longest walk of my life especially with the blindfold. Every inch of me ached with curiosity and I just couldn¡¯t wait to see what¡¯s going on.

    A door opened and I knew that we¡¯d gotten to our room, the blindfold came off and I opened my eyes slowly. The sight before me was so beautiful that I could hear the butterflies in my stomach.

    There were lots of rose petals on the bed used to make a big heart shape, candles were on the floor also used to draw the heart shape and in the middle of it was a bottle of champagne in a bucket of ice and a cake too.

    In the center of the cake our initials were written on it with a tiny heart right beside it. It was so beautiful and I had no idea that I¡¯d been crying until I felt the tears in my mouth.

    ¡°What¡¯s all this about?¡± I asked, sniffling and covering my mouth with my palm as Mason got down on one knee and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me what was going on.

    Mason pulled out a box and opened it, it was the very beautiful Diamond ring that I¡¯ve always wanted, a gasp escaped my parted lips as I watched him.

    ¡°Every single day you¡¯ve been pushing me to be a better person and whenever you¡¯re not around, holding my hand I feel lost,¡± he started and my heart began to soar.

    ¡°We¡¯ve been through so much and I have always believed that we can ovee anything together, so,¡± he paused as if to catch his breath.

    ¡°Ava, you¡¯re thest thing I think about at night, evenst night and the first person to cross my mind as soon as I wake up. So please, will you make me the happiest man on earth tonight by agreeing to marry me?¡± He asked and my face was already soaked but I managed augh.

    ¡°Marry me, Ava.¡± He added when I didn¡¯t say anything and I let out a sigh as I stared at him holding the ring.

    ¡°Do you really want to marry me knowing that people will speak ill of our rtionship?¡± I asked and he nodded.

    ¡°I don¡¯t care about them, I¡¯ve only always cared about you.¡±

    ¡°Do you still want to marry me knowing that I was once married and I haven¡¯t even told you what happened that ended the marriage?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t care about that too, I knew you were once married before asking you to marry me and you¡¯ll talk about why it ended when you¡¯re ready to.¡±

    ¡°Also, if you haven¡¯t noticed, I¡¯ve been shaking and I think my one knee can¡¯t take my weight anymore.¡± He added.

    Pulling him up, I kissed him for as long as I could before breaking the kiss, ¡°Yes, Yes, I¡¯ll marry you Mason.¡± I answered.

    ¡°You said Yes!¡± He screamed as he lifted me off the ground and just then our parents, Nicole and Ryan all came out of their hiding ce screaming andughing.

    ¡°You¡¯re about to be married!¡± Nicole yelled in my face as she hugged me, squeezing me and making it difficult for me to breathe.

    Our parents and Ryan congratted us, I had no idea how long he¡¯d been nning this but it was the perfect time.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Cutting the cake, we all ate slices of cake as Mason poured us all a ss of champagne to celebrate.

    ¡°How did you all get here?¡± I asked, I couldn¡¯t help but think of thest minute flight they would take to get here.

    ¡°And why didn¡¯t you tell me you wereing to town?¡± I asked Nicole who only shrugged with a proud smile.

    Nicole told me she would¡¯ve ruined the surprise if she told me, we all spoke for a while and after the party everyone checked into their various hotel rooms, leaving Mason and I.

    Mason yed a slow romantic song from his phone and asked that I slow dance with him. I couldn¡¯t believe that this was the same man whose mission was to burst my eardrums and frustrate me when we were teenagers.

    ¡°I Love you.¡± I breathed as I stared into his beautiful eyes.

    ¡°I love you too and I¡¯ll do so till eternity,¡± He leaned in to kiss me and after dancing we both retired to bed, ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting since forever to have you in my bed as my wife.¡± He kissed my neck as he spoke.

    His fingers found the strap of my dress and he pulled them down one after the other as he undressed me while kissing me.

    Unhooking my bra, Mason sucked on my boobs hungrily while his fingers prepped my pussy. Kissing me from my breast down to my stomach.

    He stopped and made eye contact with me before going back down and his wet tongue touched my equally wet opening as he rubbed my clit softly and inserted his tongue inside my opening.

    Arching my back and giving him more ess inside my pussy, I pulled on the sheet and my eye rolled as the pleasure of Mason¡¯s tongue fucking me filled me.

    ¡°Fuck.¡±

 Chapter 177

    Ava¡¯s POV

    His tongue in my pussy felt so good and it was probably because he recently proposed that it felt even more intimate than it usually was.

    My legs shook with orgasm as I released my liquid in his mouth for the second time. I felt tired and drained but I wanted to reciprocate.

    Masonid beside me and without saying anything I pulled off his shirt and soon he wasying beside me with just his shirt on.

    My fingertip skated across his bulge and I looked up at him to give a seductive smile. My hand tightened even more around his straining cock and Mason threw his head back in pleasure.

    ¡°Damn.¡± He breathed with his eyes closed. Making lots of saliva in my mouth, I spat on his dick as my hand massaged it softly.

    Licking his cock from top to base and going back to the tip to nibble with the small hike with my tongue, Mason let out a moan as he pulled on my hair.

    My lips finally encircled his throbbing dick tightly and I could tell that he loved it because he let out a loud moan.

    Continuing the slow and steady motion of sucking his dick up and down, Mason pulled my hair and made me take in his entire cock that I could feel myself close to throwing up.

    Gagging, I tried to move my head but he pressed it down hard even harder and I shouldn¡¯t like it because it took away my ability to breathe but I loved it and I wanted more.

    My eye stung and I could feel the tears sliding down the side of my eyes while drools came from the side of my mouth. Finally leaving my head, I started moving my hard up and down his cock faster than I¡¯d initially started.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    His cock had blossomed even more and without saying anything I ced my weight on him and inserted his dick inside my pussy.

    ¡°Oh fuck.¡± Mason moaned as he held my ass and moved it up and down his cock. I knew what to do so I just moved his hands away and pinned them to the bed.

    I knew if he wanted to flip me over he would do it without any problem but I guess he wanted me to take over this time.

    Pouncing on his cock, I rode on his hard dick as I slid up and down fast and soon I exhausted my entire strength. Mason flipped me over and it was now his turn to pin me to the bed as he fucked me.

    He made sure to be gentle and I didn¡¯t want to jinx it. Turning me over, he pressed my chest into the bed with my ass up and slid his cock in, making me let out a pleasurable gasp.

    I could feel my orgasm building up and soon Mason and I finished, hended on me before turning to the other side of the bed and it didn¡¯t take long for him to fall asleep.

    Staring at his sleepy face and a smile formed on my lips as I stared at the ring he gave me. Mason was better than my first husband, that man didn¡¯t show me what love was but Mason did and I was so d I got the divorce.

    Sighing, I made up my mind that when Mason and I had gone on the vacation to Maldives I would finally tell him everything about my marriage and why it ended because I didn¡¯t want to start off our marriage with secrets.

    cing my head on his chest, I closed my eyes and took in the fresh scent of his body and the oozing of orgasm in the room.

    *******

    The morning was beautiful and the congrattions fromst night didn¡¯t stop. We all had breakfast together and Nicole and I decided to talk.

    ¡°Where¡¯s my goddaughter?¡± I asked with a raised eyebrow that made Nicoleugh. She told me her daughter was with her nanny and they couldn¡¯t stay for long because they also had work.

    We all took pictures together and I don¡¯t think that I¡¯ve ever been this happy before, the thought of getting married to Mason soon just did things to me.

    ¡°You¡¯re so strong,¡± Nicole started as she handed me a charm bracelet, ¡°it¡¯s a lucky bracelet and it¡¯ll ward evil eyes off you.¡± She smiled as she put it on my wrist.

    ¡°I¡¯m really d you finally found the strength to give another man a chance to love you after what you went through with that son of a bitch.¡± She finished as she hugged me.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I smiled, it was all thanks to her that I gave Mason another chance and she knew what happened in my first rtionship.

    Nicole was the only one who knew what my ex husband did to me. Hugging and bidding her goodbye, she left.

    After a while, Mason came to me to tell me that his Secretary called and I dressed up to go see the Secretary with him. It was time for his interview and that was why she¡¯d called.

    Staying behind, I watched as the interview went and a lot of them asked business rted questions and also took a sneak peek into his romantic life.

    ¡°Do you really think you and Ava can work out?¡± One of the reporters asked and my head sprung up at once as I stared at Mason.

    That question was something I no longer doubted since I agreed to marry him.

    ¡°Yes,¡± he answered, his eyes staring into mine, ¡°I love Ava so much and I know that we¡¯ll work out. I recently proposed to her and we¡¯re getting married soon.¡± He announced and I could hear my heart beating fast as the room fell silent.

    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to get married.¡± He smiled as he excused himself and came to kiss me without caring about the shes of cameras on us.

    I was worried that the world would troll us once again but Mason didn¡¯t care and his strength was the only thing I need now.

    The interview was over and we drove to the airport to go back home.

 Chapter 178

    Ava¡¯s POV

    My mother and I wouldn¡¯t stop shopping for the wedding and today we¡¯d decided to go try out wedding dresses.

    ¡°What do you think about this?¡± My mother asked and I turned to see her holding up the most beautiful wedding dress I¡¯ve seen in almost three hours of shopping.

    It was a strapless gown with what seemed like a corset for the upper area and lots of petals that made it seem like bubbles.

    ¡°It¡¯s beautiful, where did you find it?¡± I gasped as I took it from her, not wanting to waste any more time trying it out.

    I came out of the changing room and my mother¡¯s jaw dropped as she immediately told the attendant that we were taking the dress.

    I couldn¡¯t believe that I¡¯ll be getting married soon, I could hear the butterflies in my stomach pping their wings as my mother and I decided to go for a cup of coffee.

    We were having coffee silently until my mother called my name, ¡°What happened between you and your ex-husband?¡± She asked.

    I knew I couldn¡¯t get away from the question this time, especially since whenever she asks I¡¯ll always tell her that I didn¡¯t want to talk about it.

    It was surprising for how long I could keep it a secret from my own mother. I told her everything since I was a child but I couldn¡¯t bring myself to tell her about my ex-husband.

    ¡°Well,¡± I sighed, bracing myself as I spoke. It¡¯s high time she knows, ¡°He was a total jerk.¡± I started and it felt new talking about it. Usually I wouldn¡¯t be able to bring myself to but now I wanted to.

    ¡°He¡¯s usuallying home drunk and not only that, he hits me whenever hees home too,¡± I sighed, drawing a breath as I stared at my mother who was starting to look like she pitied me.

    ¡°He said things that hurt, he belittles me and even when I try to make the marriage work he¡¯ll burn it back down to the ground,¡± I continued.

    ¡°He doesn¡¯t provide nor does he do things that any reasonable husband should be doing and when I made up my mind to end everything was when he hit me and pushed me down the stairs, I had no idea I was pregnant until I lost my baby.¡± I sniffled, I had no idea I was already crying.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t bear to live with him and the day I took the divorce papers to his office, he was having sex with his secretary right on his office table and I just couldn¡¯t hold it in, I lost it right there but my husband didn¡¯t feel sorry. He instead pped and insulted me.¡±

    ¡°I made sure I got him sued for domestic assault and I denounced the marriage, he signed the papers and I¡¯m d that I got out of the marriage whole, although I was so traumatized that I couldn¡¯t give anyone else a chance.¡± I finished with augh.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry you had to go through all of that, I really am,¡± my mother spoke like it was her fault and I knew she felt bad for not knowing about it but also, it wasn¡¯t her fault.

    ¡°Don¡¯t me yourself, you didn¡¯t know because I didn¡¯t tell you. I never talked about it.¡± I smiled as I held her hand and she pulled me in for a hug.

    ¡°I¡¯m d you gave Mason a chance because I¡¯m sure he won¡¯t treat you like that jerk.¡± She sniffled with a smile and I nodded in agreement.

    I knew that Mason would treat me like that which was why I don¡¯t want to keep any secrets from him anymore.

    After the shopping and coffee, my mother and I went back home and together we prepared dinner for the family.

    Watching TV, I could tell that my mother¡¯s concentration wasn¡¯t on the TV because she wouldn¡¯t stop talking about how excited she was for the wedding.

    Mason on the other hand couldn¡¯t keep his hands off me and I enjoyed it, his lips on mine every now and then made me feel a thousand times special.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    ¡°Leave her alone, Mason, you¡¯ll have her all to yourself after the wedding.¡± My mother snarled as she pulled me away from Mason and I bit my tongue to stop myself fromughing as Mason pulled me back.

    Finally getting off the both of them, we heard the clinking of ss and I lifted my gaze to see Mason¡¯s father already in the middle of the room as he cleared his throat.

    ¡°I¡¯d really like to say something,¡± he started and the room fell silent at once, ¡°Mason, I really can¡¯t believe that you¡¯re now old enough to get married.¡± He sighed and Mason smiled.

    ¡°You know, at first I wasn¡¯t in support of your union,¡± he continued, ¡°it felt somehow considering the fact that you¡¯re both step siblings but then again Ava¡¯s mother opened my eyes.¡± He added and my mother let out a proud smile.

    ¡°She told me you were right for each other and I could also see it. A lot of things changed since you both started dating and I just knew that she¡¯s the right one for you.¡± He finished as he pulled my mother up from her seat.

    ¡°So, we¡¯ll like to give our blessings,¡± my mother continued from where Danny stopped, ¡°Your union is blessed and I hope there¡¯ll be no more troubles except it¡¯s being caused by babies.¡± My motherughed as she pecked me and hugged Mason.

    My happiness knew no bounds and I was d that they stuck by me and not only that, I got their blessings too.

    Happily we all concentrated on the show we were watching when the doorbell rang. Mason stood to check who it was and he barely got to the door when it bursted open.

    Chad and some unknown men forced their way in and they were armed.

 Chapter 179

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The ss of wine my mother was holding fell out of her hand and my stomach tightened in fear as I watched Mason stand in the way of Chad and the men.

    ¡°What the hell are you doing, Chad?¡± Mason asked and before we knew what was going on a gun was pointed to Mason¡¯s temple, ¡°we can settle this amicably just please take the gun away and let my parents go upstairs.¡± Mason pleaded with Chad.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Go upstairs everyone!¡± Mason yelled but none of our parents wanted to leave him alone with Chad but when Mason yelled again they had no choice than to leave.

    I couldn¡¯t leave Mason down here and even when he¡¯d desperately begged me to leave so I wouldn¡¯t get hurt I remained adamant and stayed.

    ¡°Oh, how cute,¡± Chad¡¯s voice brought us back to the present as we returned our gaze back to him, ¡°But, I sure am not leaving any survivors.¡± He sneered through gritted teeth and raw fear gripped me.

    ¡°You took everything from me, Mason, and you really think I¡¯ll let you live?¡± He asked, I could feel the painful sting of hot tears pleading to let themselves out.

    ¡°You took thepany I¡¯ve always wanted, you were also so smart that you found out our ns with the Company¡¯s ount,¡± heughed cynically before abruptly stopping.

    ¡°And as if that wasn¡¯t enough, you stole HER from me!¡± He screamed as he referred to me as what Mason stole from him, ¡°I¡¯m not leaving without her and I¡¯m sure as hell getting everything you took from me back.¡± He spat as he kicked Mason in his groin.

    Walking towards me, Chad¡¯s eyes were so red that I could see the anger and desperation in them. He took a step closer to me and I kept taking one back until I couldn¡¯t anymore.

    ¡°If only you¡¯d stayed with me, if only you loved me just as much as you love that son of a bitch then you won¡¯t be losing all that you¡¯re about to lose right now!¡± His voice sent a jolt of fear through me and I jumped.

    ¡°You¡¯re getting married?¡± He asked amidstughter, ¡°I saw a stupid show about it and best believe it won¡¯t happen because I won¡¯t let it.¡± He affirmed.

    All the words he said grinded between his teeth as they made their way out, his hand tightened around my neck for a while, depriving me of air before releasing me.

    ¡°Pl¡­. Please,¡± I coughed, stuttering as I spoke, ¡°don¡¯t do this Chad, please.¡± I begged but Chad was already blinded by rage and determination.

    ¡°You don¡¯t get to tell me what to do, not now, not ever,¡± he spat at me before turning to face Mason, ¡°Unlock your safe and put everything you have in there in this bag.¡± He ordered, dropping the carrier bag on the floor for Mason to keep the money in.

    Mason was trying to unlock the safe when he changed his mind and in one swift move he knocked the gun out of Chad¡¯s hand and managed to shoot his leg but swiftly, Mason got shot too.

    ¡°Oh my god!¡± I yelled, covering my mouth with my palm as I stared at Mason¡¯s bleeding arm, ¡°Please, please, don¡¯t hurt him. I¡¯ll do whatever you want, just don¡¯t hurt him please.¡± I pleaded desperately.

    The sight of Mason in pain made my breathing pace and my stomach churned, my heart had broken into a million pieces and I silently prayed that he¡¯ll be fine.

    ¡°I know everything, I know the passwords to all of the ounts and I¡¯ll help you, I will give you what you want, I¡¯ll sign whatever just please, please let him go.¡± I begged profusely, the words rolling out of my tongue like I would get killed if it didn¡¯te out fast enough.

    ¡°If it isn¡¯t a true love story.¡± Chad mocked as he pulled me up by my hair but I didn¡¯t struggle. I would do anything to make Chad leave us alone.

    Mason¡¯s life is in danger and if the passcode to the safe will make Chad leave us alone so that I can rush Mason to the hospital for medical attention.

    ¡°We¡¯ll take her with us,¡± Chad threw me like I was some sort of object and one of the men held me tightly, ¡°You¡¯ll give us ess to all of the ounts and we¡¯ll let you go.¡± He added but I knew it was a lie.

    If he could shoot Mason without caring if he loves or dies then I¡¯m sure even my life meant nothing to him, ¡°I¡¯lle with you. Don¡¯t take her.¡± Mason begged.

    He struggled to stand but was unable to, he was losing a lot of blood and I could tell that he was getting weak.

    ¡°So you can make a blood trail? Hell no. You¡¯re lucky I haven¡¯t even killed you yet.¡± Chad spat as he got to me and took me from the man that was holding me.

    We were on our way out and we had barely gotten to the door when the cops barged in the house and gently asked Chad, who was already holding me hostage and using me as a shield to get away from the police, to let me go.

    ¡°I¡¯ll kill her if you don¡¯t back off.¡± He shouted, the cold gun buried in my temple and I swallowed down hard on the bike that was at the back of my throat.

    Swiftly, the police shot one of the men dead at once and I could tell that Chad was scared because his hand began to shake and he pushed me away from his hold.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t done anything, let me go!¡± He screamed in fear as the police pinned him to the ground and cuffed him.

    Hurriedly, I crawled to Mason and he was soaked in his own blood, his eyes darted across the room as they opened and closed and I tried my best to keep them open.

    ¡°You¡¯re fine.¡± He coughed, lifting his other arm to pull me down so I could kiss him. After a while his arm left my neck and I could barely hear him breathe.

    ¡°No, No.¡±

 Chapter 180

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Our parents rushed out of their room and I sought sce in my moms arms as I cried, ¡°Mason, he¡¯s¡­¡± I stuttered but whatever I wanted to say got caught in my throat and I couldn¡¯t even make out the right words.

    ¡°I can¡¯t lose him, mum, I can¡¯t.¡± I cried as Danny drove as fast as he could to the hospital while Masonid on my mother and myp.

    Stroking his hair lightly, I leaned in to kiss his hair and sniffled. How could he be so stupid, how could he have charged towards Chad knowing that there were other armed men around?

    I was mad at him but I was also scared of losing him. Hurriedly, Mason was rushed to the ER and after a while the doctor came out to finally talk to us after asking him if Mason would be alright for the umpteenth time.

    ¡°He¡¯s in shock right now,¡± he spoke and my sob became louder as I hugged Danny. I can¡¯t lose Mason, not now, not ever.

    ¡°But he¡¯s going to be fine, we stitched the wound and we¡¯re lucky it was just a graze.¡± He told us but it felt as though what he said went in one ear and came out of the other.

    Mason had beenying down in there without talking and they expected me to believe he¡¯s fine?

    Pulling me into her, my mother stroked my hair and consoled me while I constantly filled her ear with words about how I couldn¡¯t lose Mason.

    ¡°You won¡¯t lose him, trust me. I promise.¡± She held me as the doctors told Danny that Mason was just sleeping and he needed to rest.

    Danny walked back to us and told us to give Mason some time and instead of waiting here we could go to the police station to give our statements.

    Agreeing with him, I asked for a moment with Mason first and I was d that they gave that to me. Standing by his bedside, I held his hand and leaned in to kiss it.

    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re okay.¡± I sniffled before kissing him again and after a while of watching him sleep peacefully, Danny, my mother and I all drove to the police station.

    We got in and I saw Chad in handcuffs and anger surged through me like hotva as the memories of what happened back at my house yed back in my head.

    That son of a bitch!

    Charging towards him, I pped him as hard as I could before pushing him and almost hit his head hard on the hard wall behind him.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°How dare you?¡± I yelled, the tears dropping down my face freely as I thought about the many ways that I could¡¯ve lost Mason today.

    ¡°How dare you try to hurt him?¡± I sniffled, ¡°how dare you try to make me a widow even before I got married?!¡± I hit him again.

    I had no idea that I¡¯d taken one of the cops¡¯ batons to hit Chad with when Danny and my mother stopped me. I was already causing a scene but I didn¡¯t care because at this point Chad was disgusting to me.

    He irritated me and I just want him out of my life and it doesn¡¯t make me a bad person to wish that he was the one dead instead of Khalid.

    Stopping me from causing even more scenes, the police asked for my statement and I told them everything I knew about Chad.

    I¡¯d thought that he was a good person at first because of how helpful he always seemed but then he started stalking me, he would cause a scene in the office because I rejected his offer to be his girlfriend.

    I told the cops about how he was a fraudster and he¡¯d almost made Mason¡¯spany go bankrupt. I told them everything about how he¡¯d kidnapped me and asked Mason to sign over thepany to him.

    From how we got multiple restraining orders against him but he still came to thepany to take me to how he barged into my home today to hurt my husband to be.

    When I finished talking, the cops asked Danny and my mom about theirs and they gave their own statements to the cops too. It was then I knew that our parents were the one who¡¯d called the cops on Chad and his gangs.

    Our statements were all taken and a case was opened against Chad with lots of charges like robbery, kidnap, endangerment, fraud and some more.

    While we were talking to the COP I got a call from the hospital telling me that Mason had woken up already and without wasting any more time we all went back to the hospital.

    Opening the door to his wardroom I couldn¡¯t hold back my tears as I ced my head on his chest and soaked his chest with my tears.

    ¡°You scared me, I thought I lost you,¡± I cried, sniffling as I held him tighter than I was holding him already.

    Mason let out a painful wince and I immediately released him. Seeing him in so much pain makes me want to go back to the police station and strangle Chad to death but I was also d that he¡¯s fine.

    Laughing and crying at the same time, ¡°you just asked me to marry you, how can you think of dying?¡± I hit him gently before telling him not to ever think of dying after he¡¯d asked me to get married to him.

    The doctorsughed and I had no idea that we hadpany until the room was filled withughter, ¡°the worst is over and Mason is fine now.¡± The doctor spoke after checking up on him and there couldn¡¯t have been better news.

    Our parents were d that Mason was okay and after telling him about the statement we¡¯d gone to give at the station they sought to give us some space to ourselves.

    God, I love him too much to have lost him to the cold hands of death.

 Chapter 181

    Mason¡¯s POV

    I was still in the hospital but I was d that I had Ava with me. The fear in her eyes when the incident thatnded me in the hospital happened was so evident.

    I could tell that she¡¯d imagined the worst while they were all waiting for me to wake up. The way she¡¯d held me, sniffled and told me not to ever think of dying just when I¡¯d proposed to her made my stomach flutter.

    What if something horrible had happened to me? How was she going to live?

    My gaze was fixated on her as she concentrated on dressing the wound on my arm even though the doctors had done that already.

    ¡°Ouch! That hurts.¡± I winced and Ava immediately moved her hand away from my wound as she looked at me with concern written all over her face.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± She asked in a low tone as she searched my eyes for answers that I was trying to hide. She didn¡¯t hurt me, I just faked it.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know it¡¯ll hurt that much, do I have to call the doctors?¡± She asked, turning to go call the doctor when I pulled her into me and she crashed on me.

    The pain I felt on my arm surged through me like a jolt of electricity but it wasn¡¯t up to the amount of love I felt for this woman that¡¯s so close to my heart.

    ¡°It was a joke, you could never hurt me.¡± Iughed as the worry on her face turned into a frown and I could tell that I was only enjoying the benefit of being on the sickbed or Ava would¡¯ve snapped my head right out of my neck.

    Smiling, I couldn¡¯t tear my eyes away from hers even if I wanted to and moving her so her face was close to mine, I imed her lips passionately.

    The door opened and the cops came in, making us leave each other alone as they asked me questions about what happened with Chad.

    I told them about everything we¡¯d gone through with Chad and his men and how they¡¯d even kidnapped Ava once and made me sign the paperwork for my oldpany to them.

    ¡°Ava told us everything already,¡± the COP spoke when I was done exining and I looked over at Ava as she smiled and nodded positively.

    ¡°And I¡¯m really making a promise to you right now that Chad will not only be put behind bars, he¡¯ll also pay for everything he¡¯s done.¡± The COP assured us.

    After a while of talking to the Chief of Police, they left and Ava did too as she promised to be back soon and was only leaving because she wanted to make food for me.

    She came back earlier than I¡¯d expected and fed the food to me so passionately like I was a little child that she¡¯d obligated to care for.

    Together we booked our ne ticket to Maldives and paid for the flight. I couldn¡¯t wait for a vacation with her after everything is finally sorted out and we have nothing to worry about anymore.

    Everything was gradually going back to the way it was and soon our parents left when they were sure that I¡¯m in the clear with Chad already arrested and behind bars too.

    The sound of the phone ringing made me lift my gaze to see that Ava had already answered the call, she set it on speaker phone and we both exined to my secretary what had happened.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry you had to go through all that,¡± the pity could be heard in her voice as she spoke, ¡°I promise to make sure thepany runs smoothly without any problem, you just rest.¡± She added.

    It seemed like all everyone had been doing today was make promises.

    Smiling, Ava and I were having a conversation and I could already tell that a storm wasing so the conversation was to distract Ava from it but it didn¡¯t work.

    The rain became louder and I could see Ava sweating already, she¡¯d tried to hide it probably because I was still on the sickbed but she knew better than to do that from me.

    She tapped her feet on the ground nervously and clutched her chest while also cleaning the sweat on her palm. Wincing, I moved so I could make space for her on the small bed.

    ¡°Join me.¡± I told her and she¡¯d wanted to decline but my stare was too intense for her to.

    We bothid on the bed together and I wrapped my arms around her while she ced her head on my chest and slowly her paced breathing started to slow down.

    ¡°I really wanted to wait till we got to Maldives but I don¡¯t think I can,¡± she started and my curiosity spiked, she¡¯s been acting like she wanted to tell me somethingtely.

    ¡°You need to know why my first marriage ended, you deserve to know.¡± She sniffled.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to talk about it if you don¡¯t want to.¡± I assured her but her mind was already made up.

    Sighing, she began to tell me about everything that had transpired between her and her first husband and my stomach tightened as I listened to every detail.

    Why would any sane person treat a woman like Ava like she was a piece of garbage?

    My anger started growing and I really wanted to meet this man so I could beat the hell out of him but for now I was d that she was okay.

    I was d that she got out of the marriage in one piece and now that I have her I have to make sure that she doesn¡¯t go through the same thing ever again.

    ¡°I don¡¯t promise to be perfect, Ava,¡± I breathed, kissing her hair, ¡°but I promise to be different. I promise to always make you happy till eternity and even when I feel like I¡¯m supposed to hate you, I promise to love you.¡± I finished.

    I had no idea if all I¡¯d just said made any sense but Ava started crying on my chest and I could tell that she was moved.

    ¡°But one question though, where the hell is that son of a bitch? I really want to make him drop dead right now.¡± Iughed and she joined in heartily.

    ¡°I love you so much Mason and I really can¡¯t wait to start the journey of forever with you.¡± She sighed amidstughter.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

 Chapter 182

    Ava¡¯s POV

    It¡¯s been a week since Mason was discharged from the hospital and he¡¯d even gotten better than he was already. Our lives had also gone back to the way it was before but better this time.

    Getting ready to go to the police station with Mason, we got there and we were informed that the case had already been charged to court.

    Chad and his gang were charged with multiple crimes considering Mason and I weren¡¯t their first victims, they were just smart enough to be able to get away with them but I was d that it wasn¡¯t for long.

    They were sentenced to life imprisonment with hard work and without Parole or bail so no matter how hard they tried they can never get out of jail,

    Mason¡¯s mother on the other hand was also sentenced with aiding and abetting a kidnap and other offences that got her 25 years in jail.

    Mason¡¯s mother, Chad and his gang all have outstanding restraining orders so even if Mason¡¯s mother got out of jail she can¡¯te anywhere near us or her jail sentence will be more than the one she got this time.

    The judge passed his verdict and Mason and I went to thank the familywyer and the COP for standing by us in trying times.

    We finished in court and Mason took it upon himself to take us all out for a prestigious dinner to celebrate our victory and Mason¡¯s good health.

    ¡°I¡¯m really d you¡¯re fine and happy now.¡± Danny smiled as he proposed a toast that almost moved me to tears.

    Clutching Mason¡¯s hand, I¡¯ve never been happier knowing that I could¡¯ve lost him but he escaped death just by a cat¡¯s whisker.

    Dinner went well with the entire family and soon we all went back home to rest. It¡¯s been a long day and we all needed a way to rx.

    Mason had other ns when we were in the shower, he suggested that he rubbed my back with my lotion but I knew where it was leading when his fingers went lower down my back.

    My pussy became moist and I knew damn well that it wasn¡¯t because of the soap on my body, it was because of the way Mason¡¯s fingers ran down my skin.

    Turning me so I could face him properly, the absolute look of wanting and desire in his eyes was one that I just couldn¡¯t shake off.

    The way he bit his lower lips made me yearn for him even more and while I was still deep in my lustful thoughts I had no idea when Mason slipped his fingers deep inside my pussy, making me gasp.

    I held onto him for support as he twirled his fingers, my knees started bing weak when he leaned into me and his wet lipsnded on mine lustfully.

    Kissing him roughly, none of us cared about the running shower as Mason pushed me against the wall gently. Standing on my tiptoe so that he was going to be able to meet me at the point of my need.

    Mason shoved his dick inside me and I bit down hard on my lower lips that I could start tasting the blood.

    ¡°You like it.¡± It was more of a statement than a question but I nodded, his husky voice made me dig my fingers deep into his back as he fucked me against the wall under the shower.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    My legs began to feel as though they couldn¡¯t carry me anymore and I could feel my body shaking from the orgasm that was already close.

    My eyes rolled in ecstasy as I buried my fingers in Mason¡¯s hair while he buried his dick in my throbbing core.

    Pulling out, he thrusted back in with so much force that made me crash as my liquid poured while I threw my head back in utter pleasure. Mason let out a groan and I could tell that he was also satisfied.

    Tired, we finished our bath and retired to bed and I could swear that I slept off as soon as my body touched the soft bed.

    ******

    Preparations for our wedding began and soon Nicole flew back into the city to help us with the preparations.

    Mason and I had already agreed on going to Maldives after our wedding for our honeymoon and then after that we¡¯ll finally move to Miami where the new business was booming.

    The preparation was in full sail and although I was happy with everything going on, I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Mason¡¯s mother and how she was going to miss out on her son¡¯s happiest day of his life.

    She already missed out on his graduation and other important events but his wedding? My heart just couldn¡¯t take it.

    ¡°Mason?¡± I called when we were rxing to have a cup of coffee, ¡°I have something I¡¯d like to discuss with you.¡± I started and he raised an eyebrow probing me to go further.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± He asked before I started talking and I smiled as I nodded positively that I was fine.

    ¡°It¡¯s about your mom,¡± I started and he wanted to brush the conversation off but I insisted, ¡°please, I really want you to forgive her. She¡¯s in jail now and paying for her sins, it¡¯s your wedding day soon and would you rather go on with the wedding harboring so much hatred for your mother?¡± I asked.

    Mason went silent for a while as if he was thinking about what I was saying, ¡°Please, it¡¯s forgiveness and I know it¡¯s difficult but you really don¡¯t want to miss out on the peace thates with it.¡± I finished.

    ¡°Fine,¡± Mason breathed after a while of silence, ¡°but only because you¡¯re asking me to.¡± He finished and I was happy.

    His birthday arrived along the way of our wedding and I gifted him a car as his present. We took it for a drive to the beach.

    Strolling together and enjoying the peaceful night breeze, Mason and I sat to watch the tide of the ocean and the stars together before we leaned into each other for a kiss to seal the night.

    It was so peaceful doing these things with him.

 Chapter 183

    Ava¡¯s POV

    TWO WEEKS LATER.

    Nicole¡¯s daughter¡¯s birthday soon came and Mason and I flew to Los Angeles to celebrate with them. We¡¯d already shop for the perfect birthday gift to give her and I couldn¡¯t wait to meet her again.

    It¡¯s been a while since Ist saw Nicole¡¯s daughter and knowing how well she loved ying around me, I looked forward to attending the birthday soon.

    ¡°Nicole!¡± I called when we got to the party and Nicole and her daughter looked happy to see me, ¡°Happy birthday, birthday girl.¡± I smiled as I took her from her mother¡¯s arms and nted a kiss on her cheek.

    Mason handed her parents a cash gift in an envelope along with the wedding¡¯s invitation card while I brought out the multiple toys that I got for the girl.

    The party went well and soon we cut the cake and while the kids had juice as they yed around, Mason, Nicole, Ryan and I had wine as we talked about the wedding.

    ¡°I really can¡¯t wait to be your chief bridesmaid.¡± Nicole smiled as she hugged me again and whispered another congrattory message in my ear.

    Smiling, we continued talking and soon the party was over. Nicole and I thanked the parents that came with their kids as they left while Nicole¡¯s child already fell asleep in her arms.

    Together, we went to put her daughter to bed and Nicole sighed as we made our way back to where Ryan and Mason were talking.

    ¡°I have onest gift for you guys,¡± Mason started as he looked over at me as if he was seeking my approval.

    I couldn¡¯t wait to see the expression on my best friend¡¯s face when she realized that she was taking a break from mommy duties tonight.

    ¡°It¡¯s the key to one of the rooms in the suite, Ava and I will show it to you.¡± Mason added as he brought out the key and handed it over to Ryan.

    ¡°You both need the time off so we came up with an idea for you both to have a fun night and don¡¯t worry Mason and I will watch over your daughter.¡± I chimed in as Nicole shrieked and threw herself at me.

    Pulling me aside for a ss of wine before finally leaving to enjoy the night with her husband, ¡°Do you know how horny I¡¯ve been these past days?¡± Nicole groaned as she spoke and I only let out augh.

    Typical Nicole, there was no way on God¡¯s green earth that my best friend would change.

    ¡°It¡¯s been ages but you know, being away from each other makes it difficult and when we finally get the chance to be together, there¡¯s our daughter, interrupting every moment and making it really hard for us to do anything.¡± She exined as she downed thest drop of wine in her ss.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Well, you have a chance now,¡± I smiled, ¡°Go and don¡¯t worry about her. I¡¯m really good with her so we¡¯ll watch her through the night.¡± I finished.

    Nicole thanked me and we both walked back to Mason and Ryan. Unable to follow them, Mason told them which room was theirs and soon they were gone.

    Pouring Mason and I another ss of wine, we were having the best night of our lives as weid wrapped in the warm duvet in each other¡¯s arms.

    I sang for Mason and after turning to gaze at me for a while, he pulled me into him for a hug before whispering inside my ear how much he missed my voice.

    cing my lips on his back, I could taste the wine we were having earlier on his lips and my body ached for more. It was as though I was intoxicated and I knew that it was by nothing else but Mason.

    He does things to me and puts me in situations that I never want to get out of, like this one. The taste of his soft lips on mine was mesmerizing and I just didn¡¯t want it to stop.

    His fingers trailed a path from my neck to my breast as he nibbled with my nipples and soon his fingers were just below my abdomen.

    They were about to make their way down to my already wet and ready pussy when the sound of Nicole¡¯s daughter crying jolted us out of our pleasurable moment.

    I was frustrated but this was just a little sacrifice no wonder Nicole never had the chance to have a sexy time with her husband.

    Laughing, Mason and I decided to rock the child back to sleep but the spawn of satan¡¯s voice only grew louder.

    Picking her up, I walked around with her in my arms while singing lubies for her and soon the only sound that could be heard in the room was that of her slow breathing.

    Gently, I ced her down and let out a sigh at how exhausting having a child was. It took an hour to get her to go back to sleep.

    ¡°You looked really beautiful cradling her while singing lubies and alsoforting her.¡± Mason smiled as he held me.

    His eyes were dreamy as he spoke, making the butterflies in my stomach swell, ¡°You¡¯re so good with kids and now I just can¡¯t wait to have one of ours, a baby with you will be a dreame true for me.¡± He finished as he kissed me.

    Getting back to our bedroom, Mason and I had our showers together while kissing and his mouth and tongue explored my body, making me shiver in pleasure as I ran my fingers through his hair.

    Kissing, Mason and I managed to get out of the shower and we took our make out to the bed where everything got even more intense but we managed to keep our moans low so we wouldn¡¯t wake Nicole¡¯s daughter.

    Cuddling, I was so exhausted that I silently prayed that Nicole¡¯s daughter wouldn¡¯t wake up again until it was morning.

 Chapter 184

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Days after Nicole¡¯s daughter¡¯s birthday, Mason and I moved back to San Francisco and soon we started moving our things to Miami.

    I was going to miss a lot of things in San Francisco but we also needed to move to Miami as soon as possible after the wedding because of the business there.

    Mason had gone there on a one day trip with the tow truck so he could check the house and I had no idea why but he really wouldn¡¯t give me any details about the house anytime I asked.

    He¡¯d always im it was a surprise and as much as I love surprises, I just want to know how the house looked, it¡¯s our house but he still kept me in the dark.

    It¡¯s a one day trip and Mason¡¯s supposed to be back. I knew it hadn¡¯t been long but I couldn¡¯t help but miss him. The door flew open and I sprung to my feet as I went directly to Mason and threw myself at him.

    ¡°Wee back,¡± I smiled, kissing him and leading him to the couch, ¡°I thought you wouldn¡¯t be back today anymore.¡± I added, it was gettingte and I¡¯d thought he was going to postpone his arrival.

    ¡°If I wouldn¡¯t, I¡¯d have called you,¡± he kissed me again before reaching for his bag and then his pocket, ¡°I missed you so much.¡± He breathed as he brought out the most beautiful pendant I¡¯d ever seen.

    Reaching for his bag, Mason brought out a red rose and a box of choctes too. The butterflies in my stomach began to p their wings and I felt like the most special human in the entire world.

    He always does this, Mason had always made me feel special even when we were kids and I couldn¡¯t help the smile that formed on my lips at the thought of our teenage life together.

    ¡°I really can¡¯t wait to get married.¡± He finally breathed and frankly, even I couldn¡¯t wait to get married. I felt as if the day should be here already and if I could turn the hands of time, I¡¯d turn it to when we¡¯re supposed to be married.

    ¡°Me too,¡± I smiled as I took one of the choctes before shooting my head up in his direction, ¡°Have you written your vows?¡± I asked and he raised a questionable eyebrow.

    ¡°Write your vows and I¡¯ll do the same, please. Our wedding is in a week and we really don¡¯t want to mess the day up, I know we won¡¯t.¡± Iughed and Mason joined in.

    He finally agreed and decided he was going to take a shower first before resting.

    *****

    For the first time since Mason and I had been together I finally got the courage to take him to my father¡¯s burial site.

    My heart ached as I relived the moment the paramedics came to tell us that he was dead and I could feel hot tears welling up in my eyes as I sniffled.

    ¡°Your baby girl is finally getting married, dad,¡± I started, fixing my gaze on his graveyard and wishing he was still alive, ¡°and I really wish you were here to see this happen. To walk me down the aisle.¡± I finally broke into the tears I was holding back.

    ¡°But, it¡¯s fine. Danny is here and he¡¯s such a nice man, he¡¯ll walk me down the aisle,¡± I sniffled again as I smiled at Mason, ¡°I also have someone you should meet.¡± I added, pulling Mason closer to my side.

    ¡°This is Mason and he¡¯s the man I¡¯m getting married to, I brought him here so we can have your blessing.¡± I finished in tears and I could swear that I felt the air as soon as I introduced Mason and I felt nothing but Peace at that moment.

    Cleaning up my tears, Mason turned so he was facing my father¡¯s graveyard properly to talk to my father.

    ¡°I¡¯m getting married to your daughter,¡± he started, ¡°and I came here to promise you one thing, that I¡¯d treat her right and she¡¯ll never have to cry except there are tears of joy.¡± He finished, squeezing my palm as he smiled.

    Turning to face me, Mason went down on one knee and asked me to be his wife the second time, he was doing it in front of my father.

    Agreeing to be his wife the second time, he stood and picked me off the ground as he spun me around in celebration. Kissing me, we dropped the white roses we¡¯d brought for my father and turned to leave.

    It was gettingte so Mason and I decided to go to a bowling alley that night because neither of us was ready to go back home. We were enjoying each other¡¯spany too much to want it to end so soon.

    We got there and yed a game but I think that Mason I knew when we were teenagers and somehow went into hiding because he kept losing to me.

    ¡°I won again!¡± I shouted in excitement as I apuded to celebrate my victory while Mason sulked and gave me another lecture about how he was only losing to me on purpose.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Laughing, I shrugged and Mason went to get us water. ¡°Hi,¡± I heard an unfamiliar voice greet me from behind me and I turned to see an unfamiliar face.

    He doesn¡¯t look like someone I knew and I didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me what he wanted from me. Mason got back and I turned to kiss him, making sure my ring was showing properly.

    I turned back to see that the man had left and Mason and I shared augh before walking out of the bowling alley.

    Walking around, we saw a Photo Booth and fresh memories of when we took pictures years ago when we were dating.

    Laughing, I pulled Mason¡¯s hand and led him into the Photo Booth.

 Chapter 185

    Ava¡¯s POV

    A day before the wedding, Nicole, my mum and some other women from work and school and we all decided to have a girls night out.

    It was so fun and I just couldn¡¯t believe that I¡¯ll be getting married this soon. I know that I was the one who couldn¡¯t wait to be married but I also didn¡¯t think it would get here so soon.

    ¡°The new bride seem to be having cold feet.¡± Nicole, who, nothing could easily get past, noticed and announced it to the group of women who burst outughing.

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that, it¡¯s just that on one hand I can¡¯t wait to be married to Mason, I mean, he¡¯s everything but also it¡¯s so damn scary that my wedding is tomorrow!¡± I added and the room fell silent.

    I could tell that the married one in the group knew what I was talking about, especially Nicole and my mother.

    ¡°I understand and I¡¯m going to admit that it does get a little scary especially since the wedding is so near,¡± my mother started and I heaved out a heavy breath as I stared at her when she took my hand.

    ¡°It¡¯s almost like knowing you¡¯d enjoy spending the rest of your life with this one person but also the thought of it is scary sometimes.¡± She added and I could immediately rte to what she was talking about.

    ¡°You¡¯re happy about it, you¡¯re just a little bit scared which you¡¯re allowed to be but trust me you¡¯ll get over it.¡± Nicole cut in and I had no idea that tears were already welling in my eyes until I tasted my tears.

    The room soon started getting filled with a lot of emotions as they all started giving speeches and marriage tips to me.

    Soon, we stopped talking and resorted to ying sex-rted games, lots of questions were asked and although I was too shy to answer most of them I made sure I enjoyed myself while ying the game.

    We finished the game and decided to watch a movie after which we all decided that it was soon time to go to bed but not without Nicole¡¯s speech.

    ¡°I¡¯ve known Ava for years and she¡¯s just that one girl that anyone with her in their lives is extremely lucky to have her and Ava, I am really d to have you as my best friend. Thank you for always being here even when I got married and barely have enough time,¡± she smiled and I could feel the sting in my eyes.

    Gosh, am I really supposed to be this emotional?

    Nicole finished her speech and handed me my pre-wedding gift as she made a toast to years of growing friendship and sisterhood.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Everyone was a little tired and soon, they all went to sleep but I wasn¡¯t feeling sleepy. It felt as though my eyes should be opened till my wedding day.

    Sneaking out of the room to the hotel balcony, I called Mason and we both decided to meet in secret.

    I knew I was going to see him tomorrow and for the rest of my entire life but for now, I miss him so much and really wanted to see him.

    Picking up the gift I intended to give him, I set out to meet Mason at the lobby of the hotel as we¡¯d both earlier agreed upon and there he was, waiting for me.

    ¡°Hey baby.¡± I called as we both shared a kiss and letting out a sigh, I handed Mason my gift and he did the same but we¡¯d both agreed to not open our gifts until we weren¡¯t with each other.

    Mason and I decided to have Ice cream as we watched the stars together, ¡°How was the girl¡¯s night out?¡± He asked and Iughed as I tucked a chunk of my hair beside my ear.

    ¡°It was fun, really, we did a lot of crazy things and you know how women are with their tips and all of that?¡± Iughed as I told Mason about our girls¡¯ night.

    ¡°How was the dude¡¯s night out?¡± I asked before bursting intoughter, ¡°it even sounds funny when I say it.¡± I teased him before listening as he told me everything about their night out.

    It was fun, really fun doing all these things and I seriously can¡¯t wait for tomorrow to be finally called Mason¡¯s wife.

    ¡°Yourst name will really sound sexy just so close to my name,¡± I groaned as I spoke, ¡°gosh, I¡¯m having these tingles.¡± Iughed as Mason held me.

    ¡°I can¡¯t wait too.¡± He whispered in my ear as he kissed my hair before resting on my shoulders and I closed my eyes for a while before remembering that I had something to tell him.

    ¡°Mason,¡± I called, ¡°I invited Xander as a friend, you know. Is that okay with you?¡± I asked and he smiled as he turned me to face him.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine with me since you¡¯re mine to keep now.¡± He agreed as we both turned back to keep our gaze fixed on the stars,ughing and talking about a lot of things.

    Danny got out of his room and met Mason and I together, Mason had thought he was asleep and wouldn¡¯t being outside tonight.

    ¡°What are you both doing together?¡± He asked with a raised eyebrow, ¡°don¡¯t you know it¡¯s bad luck for the bride and groom to see each other before the wedding?¡± He added and I rolled my eyes at the superstition.

    ¡°Who cares about that?¡± Masonughed as he pulled me closer into him to kiss me.

    ¡°You know what, you don¡¯t have to spite me with your beautiful bride, Mason.¡± Danny shot at his son, making meugh as I pulled away.

    Danny went back in and soon came back outside with alcohol and snuck it to Mason like I couldn¡¯t see it.

    ¡°You have my permission to drink until you drop dead.¡± Heughed before going back inside.

 Chapter 186

    It was the day of the event already and Nicole had looked everywhere for Ava but she was nowhere to be found.

    ¡°Ryan and I will just go check outside, she¡¯s probably there,¡± Nicole suggested to Ava¡¯s mother who was already so nervous but immediately agreed.

    ¡°What the hell?!¡± Nicole gasped when she saw Mason and Ava asleep at the garden of the event and not only that, they looked like an absolute mess.

    Danny had seen both of them hungover but there was nothing he could and knowing he was responsible he silently hoped that help quickly came for them and that no one would know that he was responsible for giving them the permission to drinkst night.

    ¡°What the fuck do you both think you¡¯re doing?!¡± Nicole shouted as she smacked Ava who mumbled nothing before going back to sleep again.

    ¡°Ryan please take Mason and I¡¯ll handle Ava.¡± Nicole told Ryan who woke Mason up and thankfully he was slightly in a better state of mind than Ava is.

    The couples said their byes to each other before Nicole and Ryan dragged them out of the garden respectively.

    Nicole took Ava back to her hotel room and she couldn¡¯t hide the fact that she was pissed, ¡°you¡¯re so fucking drunk but that is by the way.¡± She breathed as she handed Ava a ss of water.

    Ava drank it and Nicole gave her another ss of water and two tablets of Advil to help with Ava¡¯s hangover.

    ¡°Quickly, have your bath and get back in here. We don¡¯t have the whole day thanks to you and your irresponsibility.¡± Nicole spite Ava who only rolled her eyes before making her way to the bathroom.

    She had her bath and when she was done they started doing her hair and makeup. Her hair was curled and when Ava finally opened her eyes when the Makeup artist was done, her jaw dropped at the sight of herself in the mirror.

    She looked like an absolute angel with the bridal hair and she couldn¡¯t wait to see herself in the wedding dress that she¡¯d picked for her special day, her mother and Nicole couldn¡¯t stop praising her beauty.

    ¡°You¡¯re the most beautiful bride I¡¯ve everid my eyes on.¡± Her motherplimented with a tearful smile and soon Nicole started taking multiple pictures of her.

    After taking lots of pictures of her, it got to the time when Nicole and the other women would do their makeup and after that it was time for Ava to finally wear her wedding dress.

    Picking up the strapless wedding gown that seemed to have a corset top and a floral and ball bottom, Ava put it on and that was thest point for her mother.

    Ava¡¯s mother bursted into tears at the sight of her daughter without minding her makeup. Ava turned to look at Nicole who was also sniffling and fighting back her tears as Ava finally turned to look in the mirror.

    The gown was so beautiful and she had thought that she couldn¡¯t be given a second chance at this after her first marriage but she got more than a second chance.

    She got the wedding dress that she¡¯d always wanted, the man she¡¯d always loved and she¡¯s about to have a wedding that she¡¯d always dreamed of.

    Ava could feel the painful sting of the hot tears at the back of her eyes as she stared at herself in the mirror, her gown fitted perfectly and it was as though it was specially made for her, for her special day.

    Fighting the urge to cry, Ava couldn¡¯t help but think about her father and how for years she¡¯d always spoken about how her father was going to be the one to walk her down the aisle to the alter.

    She understood how her mother felt and she knew that they were both missing her father, ¡°if only he was here.¡± She sniffled.

    Her perfect makeup would be ruined if she cried so she tried really hard to suppress the tears and think about all the beautiful things her father would¡¯ve said to her on this day.

    He would¡¯ve wanted his baby girl to be happy instead of being here and crying her eyes out.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.

    Bracing herself, she took a few pictures with the other women and soon it was time for them to go to the beach house where the wedding will be held.

    They got into the car and as excited Ava was she couldn¡¯t help but also feel really nervous. Nibbling with the floral on her dress, Ava was so nervous on the ride to the beach house and she was still unable to believe that she¡¯s getting married to Mason.

    They¡¯ve been through a lot in the past and now they¡¯re finally getting to stand in the alter together where they¡¯d get to face the pastor who¡¯s going to join them together in holy matrimony.

    They were the first to arrive at the venue and everyone got out of the car while Ava was expected to stay in the car till it was time for her to walk down the aisle.

    ¡°I am so proud of you,¡± Nicole sniffled as she took her best friend¡¯s hand, ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you for taking a leap of faith and getting married again despite everything you went through.¡± She added.

    ¡°I promise, I¡¯m making a promise here right now Ava that this one will bepletely different from your first marriage and you¡¯ll never have a reason to regret anything.¡± Nicole finished as she hugged Ava.

    ¡°I¡¯m scared, Nicole. Really scared and I know that this will be different but I¡¯m just really scared.¡± Ava couldn¡¯t care less about her makeup anymore but Nicole stopped her.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine to be scared,¡± Nicole consoled her as she started fixing her makeup for her, ¡°but I have faith that Mason will do his best in taking care of you.¡± She assured Ava.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ruin our perfect makeup and let¡¯s go get married.¡± Nicole squealed after her little speech.

 Chapter 187

    Mason¡¯s POV

    Staring back at myself in the mirror, I knew my cheeks were red because I was blushing and I really couldn¡¯t help the excitement every inch of me was feeling.

    I¡¯m getting married today!

    Knotting my tie, I adjusted my shirt and turned to look at the men already dressed up and ready to go down to the beach house with me.

    ¡°Who¡¯s getting married today?!¡± Ryan yelled as he spun me around like I was a little kid.

    ¡°Mason!¡± The whole group howled and I couldn¡¯t help theughter that bursted out of my mouth as everyone tried to reach for their phones so we could take selfies.

    Soon, we all stood to take normal pictures together while shaking and bumping shoulders with the groomsmen.

    ¡°I can¡¯t wait for Mason to see how beautiful Ava would look today, his eyes will literally pop out of their sockets.¡± Ryan joked and Iughed.

    He was right, I can¡¯t wait to see her walking down the aisle and knowing that today is the D-day where I¡¯ll get to take her as my wife, my excitement just skyrocketed.

    ¡°I have a picture of her that Nicole sent to me here and boy, she¡¯s so fucking beautiful!¡± Ryan added as he showed the rest of the men pictures of Ava and they were all gawking.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    She¡¯s so beautiful I have no doubt she¡¯ll be a million times gorgeous today.

    ¡°Can I see?¡± I asked Ryan who immediately locked his phone and protected it like it was thest piece of a cookie while telling me point nk that he could never show it to me.

    Defeated, I couldn¡¯t help but pace around the hotel room, it¡¯s really happening and today Ava will not only be my wife, she¡¯ll have myst name, she¡¯ll be mine to keep and I¡¯ll get to spend the rest of my life with her.

    She¡¯s going to be my partner, my life partner!

    I was filled with oceans of emotions that I can¡¯t describe and my hands shivered as they held the paper tightly.

    Staring down at my handwriting, I re-read it all like I didn¡¯t know what I had written and I just hoped that the speech would sweep her off her feet like I sincerely thought it would because I really did the best I could to pour my heart out into this piece of paper.

    ¡°Mason,¡± my father¡¯s voice jolted me out of thoughts and I had no idea that I was already tearing up until I turned to face him.

    ¡°Can I do it?¡± I asked, I didn¡¯t remember uncertainty being part of all the emotions I was feeling but it really was.

    ¡°Yes, you can and you¡¯ll do a wonderful job. I trusted you with her when you were teenagers, don¡¯t you think I trust you to take absolute care of her now?¡± He added with a reassuring smile that made me calm down.

    ¡°You can do it, you¡¯re getting married now and soon you¡¯ll be shouldering lots of responsibilities but that¡¯s where Avaes in, let her in on everything, she¡¯s going to be your partner and while you¡¯ll be obligated to protect her and the house, your family, also know that you need the support of your wife and don¡¯t be afraid to seek it.¡± He started and I had no idea why it makes so much sense because the Mason of years ago would¡¯ve just shrugged.

    ¡°It¡¯s a whole new journey and I¡¯m really d that I¡¯m alive to see you embark on it.¡± He finished as he hugged me, I never knew getting married would be filled with so many emotions.

    ¡°Also, I¡¯ll be walking Ava down the aisle because I know she¡¯ll be too scared to do it alone.¡± He gave a smile that I returned, if only he knew that Ava really wanted him to be the one to walk her down the aisle.

    Our limo arrived and we all got in as the chauffeur drove us to the venue and the sight of it made me let out a sharp breath.

    The exterior was so beautiful with flowers on both sides and I could tell that it was supposed to be for the bride, she¡¯d be walking in between the flowers and the walkway that was set up already.

    Driving in, I saw flowers everywhere and the fabrics flying like it was some sort of movie, the beautiful decorations and not only does it look like a wedding, it looked as though the wedding was not being held on earth.

    Smiling, the sight of all of these made me feel fulfilled and I¡¯d picked the beach house because of the memories tied to it. Every important moment in our lives centered around this beach, our lives changed here and seeing all of these just made me proud of myself.

    Everyone got out of the car, leaving me in there and soon I was also ready to get out of the car. The venue was already getting filled up by guests.

    Walking through the walkway, I lifted my gaze and the sight of the pastor standing in front and ready with a Bible in hand made me almost bail.

    My legs suddenly became heavy and my hands shook in a way that I couldn¡¯t help it as I stared at the guests who all looked really happy for me.

    ¡°You can do it, Mason,¡± Ava¡¯s mother¡¯s voice put a halt to my thoughts as she took my hands and hugged me, ¡°your dad and I, we¡¯ll be with you every step of the way.¡± She reassured me with a smile and I nodded as I got myself ready to walk in.

    ¡°The groom cane in.¡± A voice announced and I took Ava¡¯s mother¡¯s arm as we both made our way to the altar.

    The groom¡¯s men followed us in and soon took their seats while I was left standing in front of the pastor. My fingers were still shaking but I braced myself.

    ¡°The bride can walk down the aisle now.¡± The voice announced again and all heard turned in that direction.

 Chapter 188

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°I can¡¯t do this Nicole, I can¡¯t walk down the aisle alone.¡± I finally let out to Nicole and I could feel the hot tears at the back of my eyes as I stared at my gown.

    Remembering how I¡¯ve always wanted my father to be by my side when I finally get married makes me want to cry about the fact that he isn¡¯t here and he won¡¯t be because he¡¯s dead.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to walk down the aisle alone, I¡¯ll be by your side, I¡¯ll take your hands and walk down there with you Ava, just please let us go.¡± Nicole assured me but it wasn¡¯t going to be the same.

    My chest hurt at the thought of it and no matter what Nicole said to reassure me, I really didn¡¯t want to walk down there alone.

    After some minutes of back and forth with Nicole, we heard a slight knock on the car window but we didn¡¯t really see anyone outside.

    Almost crying, I took a look at Nicole who only nodded as she opened the door and the both of us got out of the car.

    My breathing got caught in my throat and I could hear the thumping sound of my heart beating as I looked ahead of me to see Danny grinning widely.

    Holding back my tears, I let out a loudughter of relief as I hurried towards Danny and threw myself at him without caring if I was going to smear his suit with my makeup. Danny alsoughed and stroked my hair lightly.

    ¡°You came,¡± I breathed as I pulled away from him, ¡°thank you, thank you so much for doing this for me. Thank you.¡± I repeated countless times while Dannyughed.

    ¡°You really shouldn¡¯t thank me because I¡¯m just doing my duty, we might not be blood rted and I know I¡¯m nothing like your biological father but I¡¯m also a father figure in your life.¡± He smiled and I couldn¡¯t hold back the drop of tear that made its way out of my eyes as I sniffled.

    Hugging him again, I picked up the piece of paper that I¡¯d written my vows on and held the flower close to my chest as a happy smile escaped my lips.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    The announcement for the bride toe in came again and I took Danny¡¯s arm as we made our way down the walkway while Nicole held my gown from the back.

    Thedies and little girls in front of us sprinkled flowers on the floor for me and Danny to walk on and when we almost got to the altar, confetti came pouring down on Danny and I and I couldn¡¯t hide my happiness.

    Lifting my gaze, Mason and I made eye contact, his mouth and eyes were opened so wide that he was almost drooling and he didn¡¯t blink until I was standing in front of him.

    He looked like he wanted to say something but was too shook to even let the words out. Looking over at Danny, I saw him wipe my mother¡¯s tears and kiss her before they both sat down beside each other.

    Nicole stood by my side and Mason had finally gotten the strength to blink as he stared at me, ¡°you are the most beautiful woman I¡¯ve ever seen.¡± He finally spoke.

    We both had no idea that the small microphone on his suit was on until his voice came from the speakers and everyoneughed as they pped their hands.

    ¡°Dear friends and family, we¡¯re all gathered here today to celebrate the holy matrimony of Ava and Mason. Today is indeed a very special day for these two who have both decided to embark on a journey of love, Commitment and a lifetime of partnership.¡± The pastor started and I couldn¡¯t look away from my husband¡¯s beautiful eyes.

    ¡°Well, as a pastor, I have had many experiences of many couples exchanging their vows and beginning a beautiful journey together and I must say that the foundation of a beautiful marriage is built on love, trust and respect which I¡¯m sure that these couples have for each other.¡± He continued as I smiled at Mason.

    ¡°I encourage you both to alwaysmunicate with each other even in difficult times and always remember to keep God at the center of your rtionship as trials will definitely surface but being together in love, trust and in God will help you conquer anything that the devil might want to nt in your way.¡± He continued and I just couldn¡¯t wait for him to finish.

    ¡°I¡¯d like to end with a quote from 1 John, chapter 4 verse 7-8, Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. May God bless your union and guide you through your journey together.¡± He finished and I could hear the butterflies in my stomach as he asked us to exchange our vows.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go first,¡± I started, opening up the paper as I prepared to read what I¡¯d written down, ¡°Mason, we¡¯ve been together through many hurdles and yes, there are some that we¡¯ve thought we can¡¯t ovee but we did and here we are today, on this day, I vow to love you, cherish you and support you. I promise to be your partner in all things and to love you unconditionally as I did then, now and forever.¡± I finished with a proud smile.

    ¡°My dear Ava,¡± Mason started and I could tell that he was nervous, ¡°Like you said, we¡¯ve been through so much and trust me, each time I just can¡¯t help but wonder what you see in me to love so much, a love like the one you¡¯ve shown me is hard toe by.¡± He paused to catch his breath and sniffled.

    ¡°And today, you¡¯re standing in front of me as beautiful as Ava, just like the stars at night. I remember the first time I told you you were beautiful, we¡¯d just had our usual fight as teenagers and you weren¡¯t talking to me, you were watching the stars and you got so engrossed that I had to take the top of my car off so you can take a proper look at the stars you love so much.¡± He added and I remembered that night he was talking about.

    My tears became uncontroble as I heard Mason speak, ¡°I said the word ¡°so beautiful¡± and you thought I was referring to the stars but the truth is I was actually talking about you and today, I¡¯m making a promise to love you forever, to not ever let the glint in your eyes go away and also, thank you for doing this with me. I love you so much, Ava.¡± He finished and I knew I was already a mess.

    ¡°I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.¡± The pastor permitted and it was the moment I was waiting for as Mason¡¯s lips touched mine and I could tell that he could taste my tears.

    We broke the kiss and then it was time for our parents to take pictures with us.

 Chapter 189

    Ava¡¯s POV

    After we¡¯ve all taken pictures, it was finally time for me to have my first dance and I just can¡¯t stop smiling as I danced with Danny.

    ¡°Congrattions baby girl.¡± Danny whispered as he held my waist and I just felt like crying at that moment. It was a mixture of emotions and many of them I couldn¡¯t really exin.

    ¡°Thank you and thank you for being here for me.¡± I gurgled, the best part was over and I really couldn¡¯t hold back my tears as I moved on the dance floor.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure Mason will do his best to make you the happiest woman on earth.¡± Danny said proudly and I could tell that he was proud of his son¡¯s growth.

    ¡°He already has.¡± I smiled as I looked over at Mason who was already making his way towards us. He tapped Danny¡¯s shoulder insinuating that he was ready to have his own dance with his bride.

    Both father and son bumped shoulders and I stood as I listened to Danny congratte his son and gave him a marriage code of conduct.

    ¡°I appreciate your help and speech dad but I really can¡¯t keep my wife waiting like this.¡± Mason finally spoke up and I couldn¡¯t hold back myughter.

    Danny raised his hands in fake defeat before walking to dance with my mother while Mason held my waist and pulled me into him that I almost lost my footing.

    Leaning into me, he lifted my face and our lips crashed on each other. There really was something about getting married because this wouldn¡¯t be the first time we¡¯ll kiss but something about this kiss just seemed so different, so heavenly.

    ¡°Did I tell you how extremely gorgeous you look and I still can¡¯t wrap my head around the fact that you¡¯re my wife!¡± Mason started, making me roll my eyes but my cheeks told a different story.

    My cheeks felt really hot and staring into the eyes of the most handsome man in the world who so happened to be my husband just had its perks.

    I could feel the drip but then we had our entire lifetime and I know that I shouldn¡¯t be thinking about having sex with him but it¡¯s not my fault that he looked so delicious.

    Laughing, I told him about my intrusive sexual thoughts and Mason assured me to do something about it before leaving me to dance with my mother and Danny with me again.

    Mason came back while Danny went back to my mom and Nicole came to give us news of how Xander couldn¡¯t make it but sent a cash gift and a card.

    ¡°Ava, I¡¯m really d that you finally found the happiness you deserve and I pray that itsts forever and Mason, you better treat her right or I¡¯ll make sure I find you, snap your head out of your neck and butcher you before¡­. You know what, I don¡¯t have to let you in on my ns. Happy married life to you both.¡± Nicole finished reading the card and I smiled.

    Mason held me so tight like he was never going to let go as we slow danced while staring into each other¡¯s eyes.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    Soon it was time for the party and food and I just enjoyed seeing as a lot of people were having so much fun at my wedding.

    Looking down at my finger, I couldn¡¯t stop staring at the wedding ring that Mason had put in my fingers. It still felt like a dream that I¡¯d just gotten married to the man of my dreams.

    After eating, we all partied together and yed different games and Ryan and Nicole showed embarrassing pictures of us that made everyone¡¯s tummy hurt so much because of the intense amount ofughter.

    The day went by slowly and it was already evening, we all stood together and talked before Mason decided to pick me up and excuse himself.

    I wasn¡¯t expecting it and the way the men whistled made me blush so hard that if my cheeks got any hotter I¡¯ll be able to cook on it.

    We got into our room and it was decorated with petals and there was also wine but none of us was interested in any of that as Mason gently ced me on the bed with his lips on mine.

    ¡°I told you I¡¯ll do something about it, didn¡¯t I?¡± He asked as he got me out of my wedding dress and I wasying on the bed in my underwear.

    Giggling, our lips met and his naked body was on mine as our tongue explored each other¡¯s mouth and for a long time we had a long passionate kiss.

    Going further down on me, Mason started kissing me until he was licking my neck. He soon started licking my breasts all around then gently took a nipple in his mouth, making me arch my back in pleasure.

    Pulling off the only pair of clothing he had on, his shorts, I felt his hard cock p my thigh and my body was filled with the anticipating pleasure that¡¯ll fill me alongside his dick.

    I moaned in his mouth as he kissed me and soon the soft kiss became so hard and fast that neither of us could wait any longer. Mason started licking down, he stopped to suck on my boobs again and I just wanted more.

    He started licking down and stopped as he took his time to lick my belly button before going further down to lick just above my pussy.

    My patience was wearing thin because he was spending so much time in that area when all I wanted was his wet tongue in my equally wet pussy. Knowing I was impatient, he went lower and licked my pussy lips. Raising my hips off the bed, I was trying to get him to lick my wet hole and he got the memo.

    Spreading my lips, Mason plunged his tongue inside me and let it explore my inside, ¡°Fuck.¡± I breathed as I held his head.

    He probed and licked for only a few minutes, then started lightly licking my clit. Once his tongue made contact with my clit, I could feel myself starting to cum. My whole body stiffened as my orgasm racked my body.

    Stopping for a while, I could tell that he was trying to dy my orgasm as he watched me tug on the sheet and vibrate and after some minutes he ced his weight on me and I could feel his dick brush my throbbing pussy.

    Slowly inserting his dick in, I gasped when he was fully inside me, ¡°justy there for a while and let me savor this feeling.¡± Mason whispered in my ear as he buried himself deep inside me.

    I was so lost in my feelings until his hard thrust jolted me out of my head, my hips moved a little and Mason pinned me to the bed as he kept thrusting inside me slowly before going faster than he¡¯d started.

    As we made love, there was no talking at all, just plenty of passionate kissing, and a great amount of hungry moans.

    Mason kept going fast and my orgasm was already near and from the way his muscles tightened I could tell that he was close too. Panting hard, we both let loose with a hard orgasm that made Mason copse on top of me before rolling to my side.

    We bothid there for a while, panting and trying to catch my breath as we stared at each other and Mason smiled.

    ¡°I love you.¡±

 Chapter 190

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Groaning, I turned to see Mason¡¯s sleeping body beside me and this wasn¡¯t the first time I¡¯ll be waking up on the same bed with him but this time was different because now he¡¯s my husband.

    ¡°Good Morning.¡± I smiled as I kissed him, jolting him out of his sleep and without warning Mason jerked me into him, making me release a loudughter.

    ¡°It feels really good to know that you¡¯re my wife now.¡± He growled and I smiled. The wedding was a sess but we still had a lot to do.

    Bringing him to the knowledge, Mason and I got ready since we¡¯re going to be traveling for our honeymoon today.

    Mason left the room and Nicole walked in to help me pack my luggage for the honeymoon and I just knew that there were not many decent clothes in there because all I could see Nicole packing were lingeries and I liked it because I had no intention of dressing decently when I¡¯m with my husband.

    ¡°So, how does it feel waking up with your husband and how was your wedding night?¡± She asked as she kept packing the bikinis because we¡¯re going to be around water a lot.

    The memories of what Mason and I didst night washed through me and I had no idea I¡¯d let out a moan until Nicole pped me out of my thoughts and demanded for the full details.

    Laughing, I told Nicole all she wanted to know and soon she was done helping me pack for our vacation, I was also ready for whateveres next.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    After we were done packing, Nicole and Ryan got ready to get back to LA because they both had to go back to work.

    ¡°Happy married life to you both, this is from us.¡± Nicole said as she opened the box with her and I gasped when I saw a set of diamond jewelries, Ryan also handed Mason a really expensive wristwatch with Diamond strap and Diamond encrusted face too.

    ¡°Oh my god! You guys, this is beautiful and looks very expensive too, you didn¡¯t have to.¡± I gasped but Nicole and Ryan insisted so we took the gifts from them.

    Bidding them goodbyes with a hug, Nicole and Ryan left for Los Angeles and soon Mason and I were ready to go to the Maldives.

    Getting to the airport, our parents haven¡¯t stopped advising us on things we should and shouldn¡¯t do but most of all they implored us to have as much fun as possible.

    After a while of discussion, we said our goodbyes and went into the ne as we got ready for takeoff. It was going to be a long flight so Mason and I decided to watch a movie.

    We ate when the air hostesses served and we also had a ss of wine. I should¡¯ve known the wine would be a bad idea because now the tingles between my legs wouldn¡¯t stop until Mason fucked me.

    ¡°Meet me in the stall room.¡± I whispered into Mason¡¯s ear as I hit my lower lips and made my way to where I¡¯d asked him to meet me.

    ¡°Why are we¡­¡± he was still talking when my lips crashed on his, I don¡¯t have much patience to just stand and talk because every moment I get with my husband makes me want to devour him as quickly as possible.

    The kiss was rough but I liked it, ¡°someone could see.¡± Mason breathed in my mouth as I took his top off but I only shrugged.

    ¡°When did you be so boring?¡± I asked and I could feel the smirk form on his face as he turned me roughly and rammed me into what seemed like a wall as he fucked me from behind.

    The thought of someone walking in on us made it even more exciting as Mason lifted me on his arm and guided me to sit on his dick. He was pushing me up and down but I soon took the lead without having my lips leave his.

    ¡°Fuck!¡± He groaned as he held me even tighter, I could tell that he was close to orgasm and even I was close too. My eyes rolled and I could feel my orgasm building up.

    Everything built came crashing down as Mason thrusted into me onest time, making my legs weak when he set me down. We hurriedly put our clothes back on before going back to our seats.

    Getting back to our seats, I couldn¡¯t help but notice the kid beside us staring at Mason and I in a funny way and before I knew what was going on his mother covered his face and threw us a disgusting look.

    I looked over at Mason to ask if he saw that and that was when I knew that his face was covered with lipstick. Pulling out a small mirror, my lipstick was smeared too.

    I don¡¯t me her for covering her son¡¯s face, we look disgusting.

    Laughing, I adjusted my lipstick and cleaned Mason¡¯s face. The nended and we took a cab to the beach house we got for our honeymoon.

    ¡°I had something nned and didn¡¯t want to be back at the scheduled time yet.¡± Mason said when we¡¯d settled down fully.

    Holding me, we went back to the airport and I couldn¡¯t hide my awe when I saw that Mason had rented a private jet for us. We got in and we both got to see the city from above.

    We flew over the city and oceans and I was nothing short of amazed. The jet soon stopped at the tip of the ocean and Mason tossed me a parachute.

    ¡°It¡¯s now or never.¡± He started as he started buckling his parachute and my eyes widened. There¡¯s no way I¡¯m going to fly out of the jet like this.

    I refused but Mason insisted that I needed to have fun and also we¡¯re doing this because skydiving is on his wishlist.

    Closing my eyes, Mason helped me with my parachute and we both skydived and when wended in the water was when my screams stopped.

    Laughing, I swarmed towards him and our lips crushed on each other¡¯s.

 Chapter 191

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Turning, I smiled when I opened my eyes to see my husband watching me as I slept. Everyday spent with him during our honeymoon has been fun so far and today is just the third day.

    ¡°Good Morning,¡± I said, trying as hard as I could to not breathe in his nose because of my morning breath, ¡°What are you doing?¡± I asked, trying to stand up but was pinned on the bed back by him.

    ¡°Watching my queen sleep,¡± He answered as he leaned into me to kiss me but I slowly moved away, ¡°What?¡± He asked with a raised eyebrow.

    ¡°Morning breath.¡±

    ¡°And who told you I care about that?¡±

    I was about to protest when he kissed me again, his lips not leaving mine as his tongue explored and fucked my mouth. Propping himself up properly, I felt his dick brush just near my clit as I sucked on his tongue and I couldn¡¯t hold back my moan.

    ¡°Damn.¡± I breathed as Mason helped me take off his shirt which I¡¯d worn before I fell asleepst night, his tongue brushed my nipples and I threw my head back to enjoy the ecstatic feeling.

    His tongue yed around my boobs before taking one of the nipples in his mouth while his fingers yed with the other nipple.

    Laying back down on the bed, Mason broke the kiss and I had no idea what he was doing until he alsoid down beside me, ¡°Lay down on me but face the opposite direction.¡± He ordered and I did as he said.

    My tongue yed with his massive cock while he yed with my pussy. He opened it and gave it the hardest, wettest lick I¡¯ve ever gotten in my life, making my body shiver and throwing me off guard.

    I couldn¡¯t concentrate on sucking his cock with the way he ate my pussy but I forced myself to. Taking in his whole dick, I gagged when I felt it go down my throat but Mason didn¡¯t stop eating me out.

    My body quivered atop him and I grabbed his legs for support, I was so close but he stopped midway and I almost got frustrated until he turned me over and positioned me properly on his hard cock.

    A breathy gasp escaped my mouth when I sat on it and Mason pulled me forward as he started kissing me over again while fucking me from hisying position.

    Holding his chest down to the bed, I took the lead and started riding him as hard and fast as I could, ¡°fuck Ava.¡± He moaned and the sound of my name rolling out of his tongue pushed me over the edge.

    Riding him faster, I got weak and copsed on him but Mason only held me down and continued fucking me in that same position until we could both feel our orgasm.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    ¡°Damn, I¡¯m about to cum.¡± I whispered in his ear and he kept going even faster and soon, I got thrown into waves of orgasm as Mason stopped and turned me over to the bed.

    That was the best morning sex ever.

    Mason and I took our showers together and helped each other pick out our clothes and when we were done dressing Mason told me he had something nned for us.

    Leaving the beach house, we both went to the movie theater to watch a ro as we ate popcorn but we ended up throwing the popcorn at each other while we also made out.

    After the movie we boarded a cab and went to an art museum, it was so beautiful considering I¡¯ve never really been to a museum before.

    We got a guide and she followed us around as she told us stories about the paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and decorative arts, everything seemed so amazing that I didn¡¯t want to leave.

    Mason and I eventually left but not without us buying one painting, it¡¯s the famous Mona Lisa painting and buying it makes me feel more fulfilled that I thought of it being me decorating our house little by little.

    We left the museum for an aquarium, it was big and I was almost as fascinated as a little girl would be when we stopped at one and a mermaid swam to me, she was so beautiful that she waved.

    I knew she wasn¡¯t a real mermaid but she looked like one. We also saw a goldfish which is a ssic aquarium fish and theye in a variety of sizes and colors too.

    I also saw a small, brightly colored fish with distinctive markings and association with the movie Finding Nemo. I¡¯d forgotten what they were called until Mason reminded me that they¡¯re called Clownfish.

    We saw lots more and different kinds of fishes, we also took multiple selfies before someone offered to take us a full picture which I was grateful about.

    Getting out of the aquarium, Mason and I found a hotdog stand and we ordered our hotdogs. While waiting, Mason got a call from his secretary and had to take it. I knew that it was going to be work rted because I heard him tell her to put all of his appointments on hold for now.

    When we finished having our hotdogs, we went back home and at night we decided to go to the beach for ate night swim. Putting on my bikini, Mason only wore a pair of boxers as we both headed out.

    ¡°There¡¯s a cliff, let¡¯s jump off it.¡± Mason started as he pulled me up the cliff and to the edge. Looking down, my heartbeat paced and I knew that cliff jumping wasn¡¯t my thing.

    ¡°No. I¡¯m literally going to have a heart attack.¡± I refused as I began to back away but Mason promised to be there for me.

    Bracing myself up, I jumped off the cliff holding Mason¡¯s hand and we bothnded into the water as I swam back up to catch my breath. It really wasn¡¯t as bad as I thought it would be.

    It was fun and when we finished swimming, we made our way back to the beach house for dinner.

 Chapter 192

    Ava¡¯s POVN?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    Turning on my bed, I groaned as I sniffed and I knew that I wasn¡¯t dreaming, a delicious aroma filled the air and that was what jolted me out of my sleep and not because I¡¯ve had enough sleep.

    Opening my eyes, I savoured the sweet smell and that was when the sight of where the sweet aroma wasing from came. There was food on my bedside table.

    Smiling, I opened the covered food on the table to see varieties of foods, there was steak, sandwiches with tea and even a bottle of wine, orange juice and water for me to choose from.

    Moving to the edge of the bed, I decided to start with the sandwich and even though I didn¡¯t want to, I couldn¡¯t help butpare this current marriage to my first one.

    Mason had always been nice to me and despite the amount of time we spent together he never got tired of me. I knew he¡¯d never change because he loved me so much but somewhere deep down inside me I still kept the thought of something terrible happening even though I knew waiting for something like that was like waiting for a bus that¡¯ll nevere.

    My first marriage was a waste of time and energy considering how I was the one carrying the entire rtionship, working so hard so that it wouldn¡¯te crashing down while my so-called husband kept cheating on me and abusing me and he¡¯d even told me that I was never going to find happiness.

    At some point I thought he was right but I was wrong, the son of a bitch was wrong because when I¡¯m with Mason I feel all the happiness that there is to feel.

    It was thest day of our honeymoon and two weeks alone time with my husband had been nothing short of amazing.

    Time flew by so fast and thest day came so swiftly that I really wished we didn¡¯t have to leave. I wished we could live there instead but somehow the honeymoon had to end.

    Smiling as I ate, I saw a note tucked to the side of one of the tes and I opened it to read what it said.

    ¡®Eat as much as you can, I could¡¯ve woken you up but I didn¡¯t want to disturb your beauty sleep. I¡¯ll be back soon, I¡¯m just stepping out to get something.¡¯

    I smiled as I set the note down and continued with my food. When I was done, I decided to soak myself in the bathtub for a while.

    Getting out of the tub, I picked up my phone to call Nicole and something just told me that she¡¯d have been waiting for my call.

    ¡°Thank goodness you called!¡± She shrieked when she answered, I was right, ¡°So, how¡¯s it? Tell me everything.¡± She continued without giving me any time to talk.

    ¡°I¡¯m on my honeymoon, you don¡¯t expect me to call every now and then,¡± I rolled my eyes but all Nicole seemed to care about was me telling her how I¡¯d spent my honeymoon.

    Sitting on the bed, I told her about everything that had happened, how I was happy with Mason and honestly wished that nothing would ruin this happiness.

    ¡°I can assure you that this happiness is going to be one thatsts forever.¡± She assured me when I told her about my feelings and I smiled as I continued giving her the details she wanted so badly. We spoke for a while and I hung up.

    I was trying to look for something to wear when my phone rang and I picked it up to see that it was Xander.

    ¡°Hey, how are you doing?¡± I asked as I answered the call and Xander and I started talking about a lot of things.

    We talked for hours about Mason, the wedding, the honeymoon and even the gift he sent on our wedding day.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t show up for your wedding, you invited me and I just¡­.¡± He apologized as his voice trailed off.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I understand you couldn¡¯t make it. I know you¡¯de if you could, it¡¯s really nothing.¡± Iughed it off and Xander did too.

    ¡°I¡¯m happy for you though, I¡¯m d you¡¯re happy because you deserve it,¡± he said as I muttered my appreciation to him, ¡°also, I wanted to tell you that I¡¯ll be moving to Spain to further my studies.¡± He informed me and I couldn¡¯t help my shriek.

    ¡°Really?! That¡¯s so great, I¡¯m d.¡± I replied, I was genuinely happy for him and we spoke for some more minutes before deciding to hang up the call.

    Iid on the bed to take a nap while I waited for Mason and I had no idea how much time had passed until I felt a kiss on my lips and forehead.

    Opening my eyes, I saw Mason and after a while of talking we decided to go for a swim but we ended up skinny dipping so we could tick another thing off our bucket list.

    ¡°We¡¯ll go out for lunch, I booked a reservation at a restaurant.¡± He kissed me as he told me and helped me into the bathroom with him. We took another shower and dressed up to go out to eat.

    Mason wouldn¡¯t stop telling me about how beautiful I looked all through lunch and soon we finished eating and made our way to the car where Mason and I kissed.

    The kiss got so intense that I didn¡¯t want it to stop until a security guard brought it to our notice that we were supposed to drive out.

    Laughing, we got back home and it was as though tie was flying by fast, it gotte and Mason decided that he was going to help me wash my hair before braiding it for me.

    He also massaged my feet and soon I could feel myself falling asleep as his soft hand touched my feet.

 Chapter 193

    Ava¡¯s POV

    I hated the fact that I had to leave Maldives, we got a cab and soon boarded our ne to where our new house was located.

    It was a long flight but soon we got to the city and we had to board another cab home. It was going to be my first time in the house and I couldn¡¯t wait to see what surprise was waiting for me.

    ¡°Just tell me what the surprise is?¡± I asked as I held Mason, begging him to give me reasons why he wouldn¡¯t let mee to the house until it was time to move finally.

    ¡°If I tell you or show you the picture of the house then where will the surprise be?¡± He asked and I pouted, I hated to admit it but he was right, it wouldn¡¯t be a surprise anymore if he showed it to me.

    The cab pulled over and I could swear that I¡¯d almost passed out when I saw the house. It was not only bigger than where we were staying before, it was even more beautiful and I blinked multiple times so that I¡¯ll be sure that this wasn¡¯t a dream.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful.¡± I gasped as I took steps closer to the house. It looked like a mansion from outside and I loved the fact that the exterior view was so satisfying.

    It had a huge garden and there was also a gazebo as I was gawking at the exterior. Mason came to stand in front of me with a wide smile as he brought out a car key.

    ¡°That car is yours.¡± He affirmed and I could hear my heart beating as I took the key from him. It was so surreal and I really can¡¯t believe the fact that Mason was spoiling me this much.

    Throwing myself at him, Mason spun me around while I smooched his face with lots of kisses and appreciation.

    I was really happy with him and everything.

    After a while outside, we made our way in and it was magical, ten times better than the exterior. I felt like I¡¯d just entered the White House because of the color of the paintings on the wall.

    It was white with touches of other colours to make it seem like there was a drawing of flowers on the wall, the frames on the walls were also beautiful and I remembered I got a painting of Mona Lisa when we were in Maldives.

    ¡°That¡¯ll be for our room.¡± Mason smiled like he already knew what I was thinking. There was a long sofa and other small ones.

    There was also a stuffed animal by the side of one of the sofas and a beautiful table in the middle. Every colour blended and the star designs on the ceilings were so gorgeous and I just knew that they glow in the dark.

    It was extremely romantic and just the sight of everything caused me to blink back the tears that threatened to let themselves free as butterflies pped their wings in my stomach.

    Turning to face Mason, I kissed him again in sheer happiness before continuing the rest of the house tour. There was a balcony where I could not only see the outside view but most of the city.

    Beautiful was an understatement for what Mason had done with this house. Looking out the window, I didn¡¯t hold back the tears and let them flow freely.

    I was so skeptical about moving but now that we¡¯re here in our new house, my house, the feeling was just like a dream and I still couldn¡¯t believe my eyes. I could hear the beating of my heart like it was going to jump out of my chest and I held it to avoid that.

    Shuffling through my bag to find my phone, I called Nicole out of happiness and I couldn¡¯t wait to share this with as many people that I know would be so happy for me.

    ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful and honestly beautiful doesn¡¯t even describe it well enough.¡± I said into the phone while Nicoleughed in happiness and listened to all I had to say.

    Tears of joy trickled down my cheeks as I told Nicole everything about the house and she also didn¡¯t stop telling me about how she¡¯d already told me that I¡¯ll be happy and she was happy for me.

    ¡°Are you crying?¡± Mason asked, pulling me into him as he kissed me and I shook my head negatively as I sniffled.

    He told me he got a call from his secretary so he has to leave for now and we shared a kiss before he left. After Mason had gone, I FaceTimed my mother so I could show her the new house.

    ¡°It¡¯s so big and beautiful too.¡± My mother gasped as I gave her a tour of the new house over our video call and I couldn¡¯t have agreed with her any better.

    I showed her the entire house and soon we had to end the call but I promised to call her back as soon as I could. Ending the call, I made dinner for Mason and I before going to the sitting room to wait for Mason to be home.

    Yawning, I curled up like a ball on the beautiful couch and I also held the soft cozy pillow on it close to my chest as I closed my eyes to take a nap before Mason got back home.

    *****

    Smiling, I rolled on the beautiful couch and I was expecting myself to fall to the ground until I opened my eyes and almost jumped out of the bed while Masonughed at me. I have no idea how I got here.

    ¡°How¡¯d I get here?¡± I asked Mason who was having a lot of fun seeing the fear in my eyes.

    ¡°I brought you in here, you fell asleep on the couch.¡± He responded amidstughter. pping his shoulder gently, we both made our way downstairs to make breakfast together.

    We soon finished eating and before I knew what was happening, Mason lifted me off my feet and made his way upstairs.

    ¡°You know what would be more fun?¡± He asked in his seductive voice, ¡°hearing you scream my name in our new house.¡±

 Chapter 194

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Last night was a memorable one in our new apartment and it was like with each day that passes, the love that I have for Mason just keeps growing and I loved it.

    Getting ready for work, Mason and I stopped at a diner close to the office to have breakfast before going in for work. The nervousness I usually felt whenever we approached thepany when the drama of the news about Mason and I first got out was now nowhere to be found.

    We finished eating as soon as we could and Mason held my hand as we both got to work and I could swear that I¡¯d already heard a million congrattions today already and the day was just starting.

    ¡°Congrattions boss,¡± one of the directors stopped Mason and I as he bumped shoulders with him before bringing out an envelope, ¡°This is for you.¡± He added, handing Mason the envelope and pecking me on my cheek as we went about our business.

    Lots of people even took the Liberty toe to our office to congratte us and they brought gifts too. It took Mason, his secretary and I to address the workers so that they would all go back to work and stop fussing around us.

    ¡°I really appreciate all the gifts and congrattions but we also have to keep it in mind that this is an office and we have to work here,¡± Mason started and he looked extremely sexy talking to his employees.

    ¡°So, thank you for all of it but we have a meeting in five minutes and I¡¯d like every director to meet us in the conference room.¡± He finished with a smile.

    I handed him some documents and walked him through the meeting before we got to the conference room like I¡¯ve always done.

    Work soon started and Mason addressed the board of directors before starting the meeting about who would manage the branch in San Francisco since Mason wanted to oversee the one here in Miami.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I¡¯ll suggest we take a vote and whoever gets the highest vote gets to manage the branch in San Francisco.¡± I chimed in and everyone was satisfied with my suggestions.

    We took the vote and one of the mostpetent directors won the vote. Mason affirmed that he would be the one to manage the San Francisco branch and he also picked an assistant for him.

    The meeting was going well and soon we decided to select the people that¡¯ll be working in the finance department since Mason had asked all of them to be reced without leaving a single one since they could¡¯ve been influenced by Chad.

    We picked outpetent ountants and I was d to see things running smoothly for Mason, he was starting to look exhausted but we both knew that a break when we just started working was one we couldn¡¯t have.

    We worked on the funds Chad and his aplices had embezzled and it was such a relief when everything was retrieved from the ount that he¡¯d hid it in and we added it to run the business.

    ¡°Clear the rest of your schedule for today. We need to go to the office of the Federal Marriage registry.¡± Mason started as we made our way to his office and I raised my brows at him.

    I knew he wanted to register our marriage but I didn¡¯t think it was necessary since everyone already knew that we were married.

    ¡°Is that really necessary, I mean do we need to go there?¡± I asked as we got to his office and he turned me so I¡¯m facing him properly before iming my lips with his.

    ¡°Yes, it really is mandatory for us to go there,¡± he answered with a smile, ¡°because I need something to make sure you know that I¡¯ll always be with you and I¡¯ll never leave you.¡± He finished.

    ¡°I know you¡¯ll never leave me but¡­¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re going.¡± He affirmed and I let out a defeated sigh. I understood he was trying his best to be a good husband and all I just had to do was let him be the husband he wants to be.

    Giving in, Mason and I went to the court to register our marriage and it felt as if we were having another kind of marriage. We signed the papers before going to a restaurant nearby to have dinner and after that we went home.

    It was a long stressful day but something abouting home with Mason made it less stressful and I just didn¡¯t want it to end.

    My stomach growled and I¡¯d thought it wasn¡¯t something serious but I couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore and I had to run in and out of the toilet.

    ¡°This is the third time you¡¯ll be going to the toilet since we got home, are you sure you¡¯re fine?¡± Mason asked when I got out of the toilet and I groaned.

    I had no idea why I¡¯m having this intense tummy ache but I assured him that I¡¯m fine and it¡¯s probably just food poisoning and nothing more.

    My stomach growled again and I swear that I felt like crying because I haven¡¯t had any chance to eat anything else but I still managed to empty my bowel.

    ¡°Make it stop!¡± I groaned and Mason looked worried and scared as I ran to the toilet like a penguin. While on the toilet seat, my mind and eyes drifted to my panties and I was expecting to see it stained but nothing was there.

    I didn¡¯t get my periodst month too and I tried really hard to convince myself that it was normal but I knew it wasn¡¯t normal.

    Cold chills ran down my spine as I thought about the possibilities of me missing my period. I couldn¡¯t help but worry especially since Mason and I haven¡¯t said anything about having a child yet.

    I silently hoped I wasn¡¯t pregnant while making up my mind to take a test tomorrow.

 Chapter 195

    Ava¡¯s POV

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, I didn¡¯t get itst month too and I know that we haven¡¯t spoken about having a child yet which is why I¡¯m telling you about it now¡­¡±

    ¡°Ava!¡± Mason¡¯s growl made me swallow whatever it is I wanted to say next as I stared at him with fear written all over me.

    I was rushing my words like anyone was going to do something horrible to me if I didn¡¯t tell him as fast as I could but it was only because I was really scared.

    What if he doesn¡¯t want a baby yet? I know he loves me so much but what if he isn¡¯t ready?

    I¡¯d also nned to take a test but I also didn¡¯t want to find out I¡¯m pregnant alone, I want him to be there with me every step of the way and the fact that he hasn¡¯t even said anything since he called my name was killing me.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, we¡¯ll go to the clinic after work today and we¡¯ll find out if you¡¯re pregnant or not,¡± he started with a smile on his lips as he took my hand in his.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to be scared or rush your words while talking to me. I¡¯m just as ready as you are to have a baby.¡± He finished,ughing at me before pulling me into him.

    Relief swept over me and as surprising as it was that he took the news well, I also knew my husband and I know he¡¯ll do anything for me.

    Leaving for work, we decided to stop at Khalid¡¯s grave site first before we went and when we got there, Mason held my hand so tight that he didn¡¯t want to let go, his lips quivered and I could tell that he was living the moment he lost his son again.

    ¡°I miss you so much, Khalid. Daddy misses you so much.¡± He repeated, his voice breaking and soon the tears he was trying so hard not to shed came flowing down his cheeks.

    He kept talking to Khalid about the good things that happened since he died and how he was right about me being a beautiful bride.

    It was sad yet beautiful to see Mason talking to Khalid as if he were here, ¡°you should¡¯ve been there, I wanted you to hold the rings.¡± He cried and I knew that he couldn¡¯t take anymore of standing there talking to Khalid.

    Consoling him, I reminded him that Khalid was in a better ce and he should at least be happy about that.

    ¡°He¡¯s no longer in pain and I¡¯m sure he knows how much you love and miss him and if you could change what happened, he knows you will.¡± I consoled as Mason sniffled and cried on my shoulder.

    After a while of standing there silently, we left and decided to go to my father¡¯s burial site since it¡¯s not quite far from where Khalid was buried.

    Happily, I told my father everything that happened at the wedding, how Danny walked me down the aisle, how I had my first dance with Danny and how hard he¡¯s trying to be a good father figure to me.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°The glint in your daughter¡¯s eyes, the smile whenever she talks about things she loves,¡± Mason started as he held my hand in his and pulled me into him like he wasn¡¯t mourning his son minutes ago.

    I love and admire how strong he can be.

    ¡°I¡¯m making a promise to you now, Sir, now that we¡¯re married I¡¯m gonna make sure that none of that disappears.¡± He promised and also sealed his promise by nting a kiss on my lips.

    He gave me sometime to talk to my father alone which I did and after that we both decided to go to work.

    We had tons of work to do and Mason immediately started while I went with his secretary to see one of the investors I was supposed to talk to.

    We got there and after waiting for a while we were asked to go in. I noticed the liking the investor took to me and it was quite ufortable but I didn¡¯t want to do anything rude yet.

    ¡°You see, we¡¯re really going to make sure that you get your money¡¯s worth considering how much waves this is making in the stock market¡­¡±

    ¡°Shush.¡± The investor has the audacity to put his disgusting finger on my lips to shun me. He kept making his silly advances and I had to put up with it because I really needed him to sign the contract in front of him.

    ¡°I¡¯ll sign this and invest in the market,¡± he started as he picked up his pen and went through the document, ¡°but that¡¯s only because of you.¡± He finished as he scribbled his signature on the paper before moving it towards me.

    Picking up the document, I stood to take my leave but his arm stopped me and turned me around to face him but before he could know what was going on I picked up the ss of water in front of me and sshed it on his face.

    ¡°You¡¯re really lucky it¡¯s water and not a burning hot coffee or you¡¯d have gotten your face burnt because of your sheer foolishness.¡± I said through gritted teeth.

    Anger washed through my veins like hotva and the sight of him in front of me was so disgusting that I really wished that I could snap his head off his neck.

    ¡°The next time you try your trash with me I¡¯m going to make sure I press charges and use you of assault and not just that, I¡¯m also going to make sure that your reputation is ruined and you¡¯ll spend the rest of your life in jail.¡± I finished.

    He was either too shocked to speak or scared because he doesn¡¯t want to rot in jail. Turning to take my leave.

    ¡°Wow! Seeing a woman take the lead like that! Did you see the shock on his face? I¡¯m really proud.¡± Mason¡¯s secretary smiled as she rained praises on me.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, just promise not to let Mason know about this.¡±

    ¡°I promise.¡±

 Chapter 196

    Ava¡¯s POV

    It¡¯s been a long day and the thought of the investor still annoyed me but I didn¡¯t say anything to Mason because I knew that he isn¡¯t going to take it easy.

    ¡°Gosh, I feel seriously weak.¡± I groaned after running to throw up for the third time today as Mason helped me on my chair and I couldn¡¯t do anything but ce my head on the table to rest for a while.

    ¡°We need to go to the hospital right now. Let¡¯s go.¡± Mason ordered, making meugh and I knew changing his mind would be hard but I tried and told him about how disappointed the investors would be if we failed at this.

    After a while of talking him into working for a while, Mason made sure that I didn¡¯t stress myself or even leave his office while we both worked.

    The day soon ended and Mason and I drove to the hospital to run the test. I¡¯ve been feeling lightheaded and nauseoustely and I just knew that I was pregnant but I also didn¡¯t want to be too forward.

    The test results came out and it confirmed what I already knew. I really am pregnant. I¡¯d thought that Mason and I needed to talk about it but he was too happy to hear what I wanted to say which gave me the relief that he also wanted the child.

    I was also happy but the thought of having a baby made me have mixed feelings because of Khalid and I was sure that Mason felt that way too because after jubting his facial expression changed.

    ¡°Khalid would¡¯ve been so happy to know that he¡¯s going to have a sibling.¡± He sighed as he ced his head on my shoulder.

    ¡°I know,¡± I also sighed, ¡°but we¡¯re going to do a better job raising this child than we did Khalid.¡± I smiled.

    ¡°And I¡¯m making a promise right now that if we¡¯re having a baby boy we¡¯ll name him after Khalid.¡± I finished and Mason smiled so widely.

    ¡°And what if it¡¯s a girl?¡± He asked, winking and I knew that he was teasing me.

    ¡°Oh well we¡¯ll just have to name her after my mum.¡± Iughed but he knew that I was serious as I held his hand and led him out of the hospital.

    Mason drove us to a nearby bar to celebrate the good news, ¡°you know I can¡¯t drink.¡± I pointed out to Mason who seemed to have forgotten.

    Realizing, he downed the shots of tequ on my behalf and asked for juice for me while he had all the fun and took all the alcohol that he could.

    I knew he was tipsy and driving in that state would only mean trouble but Mason insisted on driving and I knew better than to insist too because of how extremely stubborn he can be.

    Finally giving in while also praying for both our lives to be safe by the time we get home, Mason drove recklessly and we¡¯d almost gotten in an ident.

    The sound of sirens behind us told me all I needed to know about being in trouble, Mason pulled over and I had no idea how he was able to stayposed and not get into a really big trouble with the officer.

    He was able to convince the officer that he only drank a ss of wine, the officer scolded him and gave him a speeding ticket before telling him to drive more carefully or things would be different.

    ¡°Will you let me take the wheel now?¡± I asked and defeated, he finally allowed me to drive us home and soon we were home.

    Taking Mason out of the car, I helped him to our bedroom and tucked him in bed carefully. He fell asleep almost immediately his body touched the bed.

    Leaving Mason in the room, I immediately excused myself to call our parents and give them the good news.

    ¡°You¡¯re kidding!¡± My mother yelled after shrieking for the first five minutes that I told her that I¡¯m pregnant.

    ¡°I¡¯m not, I¡¯m really carrying his baby and I¡¯m so excited about it.¡± Iughed as I told my mother everything the doctor told us.

    ¡°I know!¡± She shrieked, before Danny took the phone from her, ¡°your ears will bleed all night if I don¡¯t do this.¡± Dannyughed and he was right, my ears were bleeding already.

    I could hear my mother¡¯s excitement in the background as Danny congratted me. She took the phone back and told me all I needed to know about being careful and not stress myself out.

    ¡°I promise to fly back to Miami as soon as I can so I can take good care of my baby girl.¡± My motherughed and I knew that nothing I say will make her change her mind because it¡¯s made up already.

    We finished talking and I excitedly called Nicole to also let her know about this and thankfully she¡¯d just tucked her child in bed so she has enough time to talk to me.

    ¡°This is such great news,¡± Nicole tried her best not to yell so much and I could tell that it was because of her child, ¡°I really need to start preparing to fly down to Miami.¡± She added, making meugh.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to be in such a hurry.¡± I said but she couldn¡¯t even wait to be with me.

    ¡°Are you kidding? I¡¯m in so much hurry and guess what, Ava?¡± She asked, ¡°I just found out that I¡¯m pregnant again.¡± She broke the ice before I could guess it and now it was my turn to shriek.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    I couldn¡¯t believe that my best friend and I would get pregnant at the same time and it¡¯s no wonder she really wants toe back here.

    We spokete into the night and talked about how close we want our kids to be just like the two of us.

    ¡°They¡¯ll be so close that people will think they¡¯re twins.¡± Nicole said in a high pitched voice that signifies her excitement.

    We spoke tillte into the night so that neither of us could sleep.

 Chapter 197

    Ava¡¯s POV

    SOME MONTHS LATER.

    ¡°Mason!¡± I yelled from the kitchen, I¡¯dpletely forgotten that it¡¯s my due date today and my water just broke.

    The pain I felt from my back down to my uterus was unmatched and just at that point everything seemed irritating to me.

    I heard Mason¡¯s footstepsing down the stairs and the fact that he couldn¡¯t have gotten to me faster annoyed everything out of me.

    ¡°Oh my god!¡± He screamed in horror when he saw how wet the floor was, ¡°Your water broke? What should I do?¡± He asked like he didn¡¯t know that the next thing was to get to a hospital.

    I opened my mouth to speak but everything I wanted to say got caught up in my throat when the sharp pain came again and I wed on Mason¡¯s hand.

    Finding a way to release himself from my gasp, I watched as he ran out to get help from Nicole. I never thought the day where my best friend would be ann?ying woulde.

    ¡°Get your filthy hands off me!¡± I cried when Nicole touched me and I immediately regretted it because I had no idea why I¡¯m so touchy but I was d she understood.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I don¡¯t know what¡¯s wrong with me.¡± I cried as Nicole helped me while Mason went to get the bags and the car keys.

    We soon got to the car and Mason drove as fast as he could to the hospital while I wailed in the backseat because of the pain shooting through my veins.

    The doctors rushed me to thebor room and I demanded that Mason stay with me or I wouldn¡¯t be able to push the baby out. I could see the fear written all over his face but I was d that he went through with it.

    ¡°Push onest time, you can do it.¡± The doctor encouraged me and I felt as though life had drained out of me but with Mason holding my hand I summoned all of my strength to push.

    My vision became blurry and the sound of the cries was thest thing I heard before I got wrapped up in darkness.

    Groaning, I opened my eyes to see Nicole with her bulging belly and she was grinning from ear to ear, I turned to see Mason still holding my hand.

    ¡°Where¡¯s my baby?¡± I asked when I looked around and didn¡¯t get the sight of cribs or anything.

    ¡°You mean babies.¡± The familiar voice of the nurse came and I turned to see her holding two bundles of joy. My happiness knew no bounds and I had no idea that I was already crying until I tasted my own tears.

    ¡°They¡¯re so beautiful.¡± I sniffled when they were handed to me before nting kisses on both their foreheads.

    TWO YEARS LATER.

    Things have been moving fast and I really can¡¯t believe that I¡¯m a mother to e healthy twins. I had a boy and a girl and true to my promise the boy was named after Khalid while the girl was named Callum, my mum¡¯s middle name.

    Nicole had also given birth to a baby boy one month after I had my twins, she named him Nathan and I couldn¡¯t help but be happy for both myself and my best friend.

    My twins and Nicole¡¯s boy are two years old now and the kids had rissa, Nicole¡¯s first child, to be a big sister to them.

    I¡¯d thought against Nicole¡¯s idea of moving to Miami to be close to me but now it¡¯s the best decision ever because our children have grown closer than ever.

    Ryan still stayed back in Los Angeles because of his work but he came during weekends to see his family while Nicole was given a job as an ountant in Mason¡¯spany.

    Everything just felt so perfect with the kids getting enrolled in the same nursery and Nicole staying just next door so that we are neighbors now.

    We did basically everything together just like we¡¯ve always done, we went to work together, came back home together, picked the kids up together and we¡¯d also made sure to hire a nanny for when we want to go for our girl¡¯s night out.

    I didn¡¯t think motherhood would be so fun yet so exhausting but I loved every bit of it.

    ¡°How¡¯s he doing now mom?¡± I called my mother to ask about Danny¡¯s health. His health seemed to be deteriorating quickly and I felt really sad for my mom.

    ¡°He¡¯s still in chemo and well, the doctor said he doesn¡¯t have much time left.¡± She sniffled and my chest clenched.

    We¡¯d just found out when the kids were just a year old that Danny was at thest stage of cancer and he had to be admitted into a hospital immediately, it marked the end of traveling for both of them.

    I knew how much my mother loved Danny because she hasn¡¯t really left his side since he was admitted.

    She¡¯d even settled down in Miami to be with him and my heart hurt for her but the fact that Danny had done a lot of good in his lifetime and the fact that my mom was lucky enough to experience his love was a lot.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry mum,¡± I consoled her, she wouldn¡¯t stop crying and telling me about how much she loves him and how she knew that they were old but she never thought about losing him so soon.

    ¡°You love him, I know that but I also know that he loved you with everything he had too,¡± I continued after a while of silence.

    ¡°And you should know that if this ends and Danny leaves, he¡¯ll always be alive in our hearts and we¡¯ll also be sure that he¡¯s on the other side waiting and watching over us.¡± I finished with tears in my eyes and I was d that she isn¡¯t close to me because if she saw I was crying I wouldn¡¯t be able to stop her from crying too.

    I really can¡¯t believe how time had flown and everything that had happened.

 Chapter 198

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The thought of Danny at the hospital was a down point for Mason and I and I was d that I had my important people to help me with it while Mason works to also get his mind out of it.

    He had to leave Miami for San Francisco for the monthly business check-up to see how things were going on over there and I knew how much I¡¯d miss him but work is work.

    ¡°You know you actually have like 10 more minutes before your flight takes off and it¡¯s just us here, the restroom might be vacant too.¡± I winked, I was at the brink ofughter but I didn¡¯t want to break character.

    I know that we both neededic relief and I was d that Mason didn¡¯t read the wrong meaning to what I¡¯d just said and instead his eyes lit up but he soon burst intoughter as he pulled me into him.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    ¡°If I had enough time you know I¡¯ll take you right here and now.¡± He smiled before leaning closer to put his lips on mine.

    I adjusted his tie and watched as he made his way to the ne. The business check-up wouldst for a while and that meant that Nicole and I were the one in charge since Ryan was also not around.

    Turning to take my leave, I drove back home to see Nicole and the kids ready to leave for the nursery and I offered to drive.

    Nicole and I dropped the kids off at the nursery and we also dropped rissa off at school before driving off to work.

    We got to work and I called an urgent meeting. The teams needed toe up with more ideas to refurbish our market so that we¡¯ll be able to pull in more investors and earn even more than thepany has been earning.

    ¡°What do you think about introducing a new stock, I¡¯ve been studying this particr one and it¡¯s been doing so well in markets. I think we can buy that idea and even add more so we create something extraordinary that investors wouldn¡¯t resist investing in.¡± Nicole suggested.

    She¡¯d insisted on not joining the meeting because she had tons of ounts to bnce and invoices to send out but I¡¯m happy about the fact that I was able to get her to join the meeting.

    ¡°Okay, that¡¯s a great idea Nicole,¡± Imended with a smile that made her gag secretly because she didn¡¯t want to be here, ¡°Give the details to the research team and they¡¯ll know what to do.¡± I added, packing up my cup of coffee and other documents.

    ¡°Thank you all for being present, this will be the end of the meeting.¡± I finished as I stood to take my leave and continue working in my office.

    Groaning, I picked up my phone to call Mason and ask about his trip. We talked for a while before hanging up and just when I was about to continue working the door opened and Nicole worked in.

    ¡°Hey boss,¡± sheughed as she sat in front of me and I rolled my eyes, ¡°you don¡¯t have to keep burying yourself with loads of work.¡± She added, packing up the documents I was working on without caring if I was still working.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re going shopping and everything¡¯s on me, don¡¯t worry. Plus, you can work some other time.¡± She responded, pulling me up from my seat and leading me out of my office.

    Nicole offered to drive to the shopping mall and I knew that she was doing all of this so I wouldn¡¯t have to think about the fact that my only father figure was at the brink of death.

    We made sure to go through every aisle and after shopping, Nicole and I went for a drink since both of us couldn¡¯t drink after having kids and all.

    Picking up my phone, I called the sitter to pick the kids up from school and stay with them. After that I called my mother to ask about Danny.

    She was still at the hospital with him and his health isn¡¯t getting any better. I missed her and also wanted to know if she was fine too.

    ¡°You really need to take care of yourself too, mom,¡± I sighed, ¡°Also, please if there¡¯s any problem do not hesitate to call me, okay?¡± I finished and she agreed before hanging up.

    We stayed for a while before Nicole got a call from Ryan that he was around and we had to go to him. Ryan settled for a while before taking his wife out on a date.

    I stayed home with the kids and put them to bed. Mason came inte and I could tell he was tired. Kissing him, I fixed his te and we both had dinner as we talked about the business.

    After eating, Mason and I went to our bedroom with Mason all over me, ¡°yeah, I can do what I want now.¡± He said into my mouth.

    His tongue exploring my mouth while his fingers explored my body, Mason ced me gently on the bed and we tried as hard as we could to not make any noise but the pleasure isn¡¯t something I could just muffle in.

    Turning me around so my face would be in the bed, Mason fucked me so hard that I let out muffled moan and my breathing was short it at that point all I cared about was the fact that I was at the verge of orgasm.

    Soon, Mason bursted his loads inside me before turning toy beside me, we both fought to catch our breath. cing my head on his chest, I kissed his nipples before propping myself up to stare at him.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to be worried,¡± I started as I scribbled on his chest, ¡°everything would turn out well and we¡¯ll forget all about these times, I promise.¡± I finished.

 Chapter 199

    Ava¡¯s POV

    The ring sound of my phone ringing jolted Mason and I out of our deep sleep and I groaned as I picked the phone up.

    Who could be calling me at this hour of the morning?

    Checking the phone, I almost jumped out of bed when I realized that the call was from my mother and I knew she wouldn¡¯t call unless something is really wrong.

    ¡°Hey mom,¡± I called into the phone while also tapping Mason who was already up, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± I asked after a while of silence.

    ¡°I¡­ it¡¯s Danny,¡± she sniffled and my eyes widened at once as I immediately prayed that it isn¡¯t what I¡¯m thinking about.

    ¡°He had a heart attack and they just rushed him into surgery.¡± She broke down, I knew if she cried any harder she¡¯d be perspiring.

    Turning to look at Mason who also looked really worried, I tried my hardest to console my mother while I asked Mason to get dressed so we could join them in the hospital.

    We could¡¯ve waited till daybreak but it¡¯s morning already and my mother needed all the support she could get from Mason and I.

    Getting ready, it was too early for the babysitter to arrive so we just got the kids ready and took them with us.

    I¡¯d thought about calling Nicole but it was also too early, I knew having kids in the hospital was a bad idea but we went with it anyways.

    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m gonna lose him?¡± Mason¡¯s question caught me off-guard while I tried to get the kids strapped to the backseat of the car properly.

    ¡°I think he knows how much you love him and how scared you are to lose him, that¡¯s enough.¡± I answered, I knew it wasn¡¯t even remotely close as an answer to the question he asked.

    My chest clenched in fear and I think even Mason already knew the answer to his question before he asked but he just needed my support.

    I also can¡¯t bear to lose Danny, he¡¯s been nothing but amazing and supportive of me. Closing my eyes, shbacks from when we just moved into his house came flooding me and the sight of his smiles, how he tried so hard to be a good father and how supportive he was made me shed a tear.

    ¡°Danny is a really strong man and I think we should appreciate that.¡± I smiled, holding Mason¡¯s hand before releasing it so he could take the wheel.

    We drove to the hospital and begged one of the nurses to watch the kids for us while we went to see my mother.

    ¡°Ava!¡± My mother called immediately she saw me, making her way to me she threw herself at me and held me so tightly before releasing me to hug Mason then came back to me.

    ¡°Why do bad things always happen to me?¡± She asked and I didn¡¯t want to but the tears came rushing down as I shook my head.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t I have any luck in marriage? First it was your father and now¡­¡± she cried as I pulled her into me again and ced my chin on her shoulder.

    I knew she was scared of Danny dying, I was scared too. We¡¯re all scared of losing Danny but some things are just inevitable but I knew better than to tell her that.

    ¡°It¡¯s Okay mum,¡± I consoled, pulling her away from me and smiling, ¡°you both spent the best time of your lives together, you shared an unmatched love for each other and I think that is more than enough. Think about those memories and smile at the happy ones you both made.¡± I consoled her and when I saw that she was calming down I was d it worked.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    Excusing myself when she had finally calmed down, I called Nicole and exined it all to her. It didn¡¯t take long for her to show up almost as soon as I hung up the call.

    She offered her support but she had to leave when the kids started running around without caring if they were in the hospital or a yground. Nicole took them home and assured me that she¡¯ll call to check up on me.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I hugged and watched as she took the kids home. Drying up my tears, I turned to see Mason looking as scared as ever.

    He was ying with his fingers and pacing around, his face was filled with wrinkles and his evident fear made me pity him.

    He¡¯s going to lose both of his parents because his mother is in jail and his father on the other hand is on his sickbed. It¡¯s too much for even a grown man to handle.

    Smiling and bracing myself up to be his shield, I hugged him from behind and I smiled when his tensed shoulders soon rxed.

    Closing my eyes to just calm both of us down, we heard the sound of the door opening and I immediately released him to see the doctor walking towards us.

    ¡°How is he now, doctor?¡± Mason asked, squeezing my palm as he braced himself for the worst news possible.

    The doctor told us about how hard they tried to save his life but they couldn¡¯t, ¡°he¡¯s still alive but he doesn¡¯t have much time left.¡± The doctor finished.

    He advised us to make the air morefortable for Danny and spend most of hisst moment with him. The news shattered Mason so much that he couldn¡¯t stay in the hospital anymore, he had to walk out.

    Leaving him to himself, I went to Danny¡¯s room and the sight of him broke my heart. Sitting beside him, I took his hand and thanked him for being a wonderful father.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Mason?¡± He groaned and that was when the tears broke free, I¡¯d wanted to exin to him when the door opened and we both looked to see Mason standing by the door.

    He joined us and I excused him so he could spend time with his father. Soon, Mason and I left my mother with Danny.

    At the end of the day my mother came to break the news of Danny¡¯s death to us.

 Chapter 200

    Ava¡¯s POV

    Danny¡¯s burial soon came and everything was set and ready. The priest spoke before asking us toe make a speech.

    Walking up to the altar, I looked at everyone around and it felt like I had nothing to say about Danny except the fact that he was a good father to me.

    ¡°When everyone was less supportive of me, Danny stayed with me, he could disbelieve a lot of things but he never stopped believing in me. He really is the best father in the world and I don¡¯t think they make fathers like him because I think I took thest one.¡± Iughed and sniffled and the mood was lightened up a bit.

    ¡°Danny had touched our lives one way or the other and I don¡¯t think he would want us here crying, he was always so full of life and as crazy as it might sound, I think Danny would want us to be d that he lived the best of his life.¡± I finished before walking off.

    Mason made a speech about his father too and watching him stand there just made my hearte crashing down.

    ¡°We disagree on a lot of things even when I¡¯m being a brat but we always both agree on one thing and that¡¯s the fact that he loves me, he never stopped loving me even when I know that I¡¯m not really the best of sons.¡± He continued.

    ¡°Ava is right and I thank you all foring out for him but I don¡¯t think he would want a gloomy day just because he died, especially with his wife,¡± he added and we all turned to look at my mother.

    ¡°He loves her so much that I know he¡¯s probably standing right next to het begging her to stop crying.¡± He continued, Mason took the floor before leaving and it was my mother¡¯s turn to make her own speech.

    She had a lot of things to say about her husband, she spoke about how much he loved her and since they went around the world together she had so much to say.

    The speech was over and we were all asked to pay our respect which everyone did and even Xander was around because he was invited too.

    Danny was buried and everyone started walking around talking to people they knew as they offered their condolences to my mother and Mason.

    I consoled my mother and looked around but Mason was nowhere in sight. I decided to go look for him but I found Nicole instead.

    Making my way to Nicole, I thanked her for all she¡¯s done and for also watching the kids.

    ¡°You know you don¡¯t have to always act so strong and so tough, you¡¯re human, you¡¯re allowed to feel so cry and let it all out instead of bottling it all up and shouldering all the responsibilities.¡± Nicole started and I raised an eyebrow in question.

    ¡°What I mean is for you to cry, bawl your eyes out and just feel the pain of losing your second father.¡± She exined and I nodded slightly before shaking my head.

    ¡°You don¡¯t understand, Nicole,¡± I started, ¡°I don¡¯t know how to cry.¡± I added.

    ¡°It¡¯s like I¡¯ve lost my ability to cry and not just that, everyone around me seemed so important to Danny but me, my mother was his wife and Mason was his son.¡± I finished with a sigh.

    ¡°Yes, I understand all that but you can¡¯t tell me that you don¡¯t feel the least bit of pain, you can¡¯t tell me that you don¡¯t feel like your heart is tearing out of your chest.¡± She said and she¡¯s right.

    I feel all of those things. Finally letting it all out, I allowed myself to cry and talk to my best friend about how good Danny was to me and how much I¡¯d miss him.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    Nicole was d that I finally let it out and she tried her best to console me. We spoke for a while before I excused myself to find Mason.

    I found him talking to a friend and I also went to stand beside him, offering him all of the support that I could possibly give.

    We finished talking to his friend before I told him that I needed to talk to him, he looked worried and thought that something was wrong with me but I calmed him down.

    ¡°I wanted to talk to you about your mother,¡± I finally let out, ¡°you should see her and inform her about Danny¡¯s death. She deserves to know about it.¡± I finished.

    Mason agreed to go see her with me and we went back to the burial site. Mason had a one on one with his father and almost all invited guests started leaving and went to their various homes.

    ONE WEEK LATER

    Everyone tried doing what worked for them to get over Danny¡¯s death but we all knew that we couldn¡¯t possibly get over it a hundred percent.

    Mason and I prepared to go see his mother in prison to inform her about Danny¡¯s death. We got there and she asked for forgiveness from her son.

    ¡°How is Danny? Is he okay?¡± She asked and Mason looked at me before looking back at his mother.

    ¡°My father is dead.¡± He broke the news and I watched the shock on her face grow wider as she sobbed.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been a horrible mother to you and wife to your father and the fact that I won¡¯t be able to ask him for forgiveness breaks my heart.¡± She cried as she looked at Mason remorsefully.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, please forgive me.¡± She cried again and the sight of her was probably ufortable for Mason because he shifted a little and looked at me as if asking for approval.

    Giving his hand a little squeeze, I nodded, ¡°I need some time to think about it because forgiveness isn¡¯t just something one gives out, I¡¯ll think about it and maybe then I can actually forgive you.¡± Mason said and his mother smiled.

    ¡°Thank you so much,¡± she thanked him before looking at me, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for acting so terribly to you, you don¡¯t deserve that.¡± She apologized to me too and I just smiled.

    We went back home to a full house with kids running around the house and I just couldn¡¯t stop thinking about my life.

    I felt fulfilled and happy that I met Mason who started off as my step-sibling. I really am d that things turned out great for me.

    For us, we overcame every trial together.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!