《Daddy’s Little Pet》


 Heartbreaks & Whiskey

    RENEE


    ¡®Yes, Dn, fuck me harder.¡¯


    ¡®You like it when I fuck you hard?¡¯


    ¡®Oh yesssss¡­ Oh yesssss Dn¡­¡¯


    I shut my eyes tightly, a whimper escaping my lips as I tried to block the taunting memories in my head.


    The memory was clear as day. Even as I closed my eyes now, I was hit with the illicit image of Dn, my longtime boyfriend of four years, cheating on me with a blonde-haired bimbo in our bed.


    I¡¯d found him fucking her on the bed we shared for years in our joint apartment. When I arrived home, the first thing I saw when I stepped into the building were clothes flung haphazardly, strewn around in the living room.


    Following the trail, picking up the bra and panties I¡¯d seen on the way, I kept trying to tell myself that my worst nightmare was not about to happen. But then I heard screams and pleasure-filled echoesing from my room, and I froze.


    Our room¡­ Instantly, the steady pounding of my heartbeat increased, my chest tightening as a tear found its way down my cheek.


    Soft moans had drifted through the apartment, along with the small creaky sounds of our rickety old bed, and at first I stood like a statue, unmoving.


    The shock had my whole body paralyzed, and my jaw dropping, I stood close to  the slightly open door, desperately looking for the courage to peek inside the room.


    I inhaled and exhaled slowly, and after a while, my breathing steadied itself as I inhaled once more. I ced my hand on the doorknob, and after peeping into the room, my eyes met with the worst and most shocking sight.


    Dn hadn¡¯t noticed my presence as he¡¯d been so deeply engrossed in the sexual activity, and as for the woman with him, she was busy stroking her clit, her moans loud and throaty. She continued to urge Dn as he pumped in and out of her pussy while I watched, and that¡¯s when I¡¯d lost it..


    ¡°Shit!¡± I cursed, the tears at the back of my eyes drying up and my lids opening instantly.


    What the hell was wrong with me?


    I was already getting wet imagining them together. Now I was ashamed and embarrassed. The drinks I¡¯d been having since I stepped into this bar with Nicole were getting to my head


    I blinked twice, pushing away the image of Dn¡¯s cheating ass, and instead, I chugged the whiskey down my throat, grimacing bitterly at the harsh burn.


    I was heartbroken, sad, and fucking horny as hell.


    I now hated my meek and holy lifestyle. If I¡¯d been bratty, surely I would¡¯ve gotten someone to fuck the shit out of me. That would¡¯ve probably cleared my head of all the memories of Dn. But I had no one.


    I didn¡¯t have a fling or a hook-up, as I¡¯d been faithful to Dn all these years. Even though I was at a bar, I wouldn¡¯t say I liked the idea of picking a random stranger to go home with and never see again.


    I would be a ¡®slut.¡¯ That¡¯s what Dn called me when he¡¯d finished fucking that woman, and they¡¯d caught me staring.


    Without a slightest bit of remorse on his face, Dn had given me an evil smirk and told me right to my face that he¡¯d done everything on purpose because I didn¡¯t satisfy him sexually.


    What a prick!


    While he was dressing up casually, he¡¯d bluntly told me that  I¡¯d been neglecting him by working my ass off day and night and not making time for him.


    His words went; thus, ¡®I¡¯m sorry you had to see this, Renee. But I wanted you to. I¡¯ve been sex-starved these past few weeks, and you did nothing about it. Even after Iined! So, I had to look for an alternative and satisfy myself. Dare I say she did well., and I hope this teaches you a lesson, you slimy slut. I still love you, but I can¡¯t continue jerking off every morning in the shower when I have a girlfriend who¡­.¡¯


    He¡¯d continued spewing trash, and it¡¯d taken all my strength not to walk over to where he was, and smack him square and hard in the face. But Iposed myself.


    At first, I didn¡¯t give him the reaction he was expecting, as I kept mute, and disappointment had shed in his blue eyes.


    As for the stupid bitch by his side, she was still lying on the bed. She stared at me with a haughty look while rubbing her tits, her legs wide open, and slowly stroking her clit with her legs wide open.


    A tear had fallen from my face at longst, and clutching my purse without so much as a word, I whirled around and scampered out of the house, humiliation and disgrace coursing through me.


    Now¡­.


    ¡°Oh Renee, don¡¯t tell me these tears streaming down your face are still because of that self-centered, egotistical prick?¡± Nicole, my best friend asked and I just sighed sadly.


    I didn¡¯t even know what to say. I drowned my sorrow with another drink and mumbled bitterly with red-rimmed eyes, ¡°I can¡¯t stop thinking about it, Nicole. I loved him. I could see my future with him and-¡±


    ¡°Oh, stop this, Renee. You¡¯re making me ashamed right now.¡± Nicole cut in.


    I ignored her and continued, ¡°It hurts so much, Nicole. I can¡¯t fathom being with a man other than Dn. He was my first love, for goodness¡¯ sake! He took my virginity, and he was my first in everything. We loved each other so much, and-¡±


    ¡°And he still cheated on you? Oh, get your act together, girl. I dragged you here to have fun. Not to mope around.¡± Nicole slurred, a bubblyughter escaping her throat, and her mockery only intensified my pain.


    I knew she didn¡¯t mean any harm, but the words hurt.


    ¡°His reason is just so absurd, you know.¡± After a brief silence descended between us, coughing as I spoke, I began to say again, ¡°He told me he broke up with me because I rarely slept with him. Can you imagine? He said I wasn¡¯t giving him enough of my time and¡­ Dn knows how hard I work to provide for myself and my sick mother. He knows how hard I¡¯ve been looking for a stable job since leaving college and how I¡¯ve been saving up so hard but still, he had to me me for being-¡±


    I gurgled as Nicole forced a cherry into my mouth, telling me to shut up without words. I shot her a bitter look.


    ¡°You know what? You can¡¯t keep being like this. It¡¯s been two days since you caught the motherfucker cheating, and you¡¯ve been crying like a kid. He might be fucking another blonde bimbo now or a brte beauty while you¡¯re here bawling your eyes out. Man up, bitch!¡±


    The thought of Dn moving on or sleeping with anotherdy brought a bitter taste to my mouth, and I grimaced.


    ¡°I just don¡¯t know what to do and-¡±


    ¡°Oh, I know the best therapy for you! For us, actually!¡± Nicole announced, a smile on her face and her eyes twinkling mischievously.


    I slurped, gulping back the vomit threatening to spill out of my throat. My head felt wobbly and heavy, and my body was shaking. But still, I kept drinking, intent on doing anything that would take my mind off Dn.


    ¡°What do you say about a vacation?¡±


    ¡°A vacation? Nicole, I don¡¯t have that much money to-¡±


    ¡°This one¡¯spletely free, Renee. I got two tickets to a beach festival in Miami. It¡¯s an expense-paid trip with free rooms, food, and Wi-Fi. I¡¯ve been keeping it a secret. I wanted to tell you at a better time, but I guess I have to tell you now. What do you think about it?¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    For a while, I kept drinking the strong whiskey with my face upturned as I considered Nicole¡¯s proposal.


    I had so much work to do and money I needed to raise. But this vacation offer was tempting, and the opportunity wouldn¡¯te again. I had to go.


    ¡°What do you say, Renee?¡± Nicole half yelled, raising her voice due to the booming music in the bar. I stared at the funny expression on her face and chuckled softly.


    ¡°Answer me, Renee! Stop keeping me in some goddamn suspense,¡± Nicole said again, and this time I gave a curt nod.


    ¡°I want to hear your answer. Come on! Miami is filled with so many hot guys. You might get lucky and even hook up with one. He could be your rebound. Get your pussy drilled so hard you never think about Dn again, and-¡±


    Was I going there to meet hot guys or to have fun? Before Nicole could finish, I answered, ¡°Yes! Yes! Let¡¯s go on the freaking trip! Let¡¯s do this!¡±  I then proceeded to vomit uncontrobly amidst Nicole¡¯s startled scream.


    ¡°What the hell did you do? Renee!¡± Nicole yelled, her hand patting my back as I kept vomiting and she looked around, desperately trying to call for help.


    I¡¯d made a mess all over the floor of the city¡¯s most popr dance club and I wouldn¡¯t even be surprised if we were thrown out eventually.


    However, all I could think about was our short vacation to Miami, and a giddy feeling coursed through me.


    ¡°Oh goodness gracious, Renee.¡± Nicole muttered, calling my name for the umpteenth time and dragging me up simultaneously. As I straightened, I locked gazes with her, and as if on cue, we both began tough uncontrobly¡­


    Oh well!

 The Stranger

    RENEE


    ¡°Apply the sunscreen all over your body. Don¡¯t leave a part dry. We¡¯re staying at the beach all through the afternoon, and we won¡¯t be back till¡­.¡±


    I rolled my eyes, my hands clumsily massaging my skin while I tried to obey my best friend¡¯s orders.


    Finally, we were in Miami, ready to enjoy ourselves.


    With Nicole¡¯s persistence and support, I was able to muster my courage and go back to the apartment I shared with my cheating ex-boyfriend to get my stuff. Luckily he was not at home when I went there, and so I just left him a goodbye note.


    I didn¡¯t care about the money or refund he owed me since I wasn¡¯t staying all through the rental period and the groceries we¡¯d bought together, I left it all for him.


    I was turning over a new leaf, just like Nicole suggested, and I was intent on seeing it through.


    Also, I¡¯d cut all ties with him by erasing his information from my phone and blocking him on all my social media ounts. I knew I had to move on with my life, and slowly I was embracing this new step.


    I was now single. Nicole was also single, and together the both of us decided to enjoy life to the fullest.


    Starting from the moment we left for the vacation in Miami, we would forget all our worries and focus solely on ourselves. Doing each and everything that would bid well for us.


    Today was our second day and so far, my experience has been satisfying.


    Ever since I¡¯d stepped down from the train and inhaled the fresh air and breeze in this new city, I felt refreshed and hopeful.


    I was going to have fun, irrespective of whatever or whomever and I was so grateful to Nicole for persuading me into going on this trip.


    ¡°You look damn stunning, girl.¡± Nicole whistled, standing behind me by the full-length mirror in our tiny motel room and I grinned happily.


    My eyes inspected the nearly see-through outfit I had on. ¡°Well,st night I was acting too shy at the beach party, so today I decided to be bolder. That¡¯s why, I¡¯m going for something more daring.¡±


    ¡°Well, this is more than daring bitch. You look hot.¡± Nicole chimed in, her jaw dropping open at the same time.


    A blush crept up my cheeks. The little powder and makeup I¡¯d applied earlier did well in concealing my embarrassment. Turning back to the mirror, I once again appraised my outfit.


    I¡¯d worn arge hat, a see-through woolen wrap skirt, and a bra top.


    My curves were on full disy, and with the line of my panties entuating my assets, I did look hot, just like Nicole confirmed, and the realization had me swallowing heavily.


    I was not so voluptuous, but still, I was curvy. Withrge breasts and hips that went on for days, I could easily describe myself as an hourss. I had everything necessary to make a man go crazy, and once again, I wondered why Dn had cheated on me.


    The saying ¡®nothing can keep a man except one who wanted to be kept¡¯ was all too true and I believed it now, especially.


    I was curvier than that bitch he¡¯d been in bed with. I was even prettier. But still, he¡¯d-


    ¡°Hey, Renee¡­¡± Nicole interrupted my thoughts, waving her hands in front of my face and I shook my head, blinking twice, and returning to reality.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been talking to you, but you¡¯re ignoring me. What¡¯s in your head, girl? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re thinking about that good for nothing¡­.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± I answered quickly, lying through my teeth. ¡°I¡¯m not thinking about him at all, Nicole. He¡¯s the past, and this is the present.¡±


    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you r-¡±


    ¡°I was staring at my beautiful body.¡± I winked, doing a little twirl and grabbing Nicole¡¯s hands, I added,  ¡°What are we waiting for? Let¡¯s go!¡±


    Nicole didn¡¯t believe me by the look on her face, but I wasn¡¯t divulging more information, that¡¯s for sure.


    Gripping her wrist, I dragged her toward the room¡¯s exit, and then we left for the beach.


    ~~


    The sun was scorching this afternoon, burning heavily, and now I was grateful to Nicole for forcing me to wear sunscreen beforeing out.


    I would¡¯ve burned if I¡¯d disobeyed her and done as I pleased.


    As I remembered my very delicate skin, I shuddered, thinking about the red patches that would have been on my skin had I refused to obey my best friend¡¯s suggestions.


    Stretched on a lounge chair, my sunsses atop my pert nose, I was sunbathing and tanning beautifully.


    I was all alone as Nicole had gone to talk to some random stranger she¡¯d met. I wasn¡¯t in the mood to make small talk, so being here was convenient.


    Yawning slightly, I winced slowly, my hands going to my dry, parched throat, and I hissed softly in pain. The tropical fruit juice I¡¯d gotten earlier was almost finished, and my mouth was burning up already.


    ¡°Dang it!¡± I cursed inwardly, slowly getting up from the chair and putting on my mini flip-flops. I then decided to refill my drink ande back to rest.


    I went to the mini snacks shop and requested an order. I paid, and just as I was about to leave, I heard a deep baritone behind me. ¡°I¡¯ll have what thedy is having, please. Two cups.¡±


    I stepped back, wanting to leave, but I was trapped. The stranger was behind me, keeping me in between him and the bar counter. His cool breath fanned my neck, making the hair on my neck stand at attention.


    I gulped nervously, about to say something. Still, I couldn¡¯t speak, because the veiniest hands I¡¯d ever seen stretched forward, cing stacks of dor bills on the counter.


    Those hands¡­ looked so strong. I could only imagine the face behind such vein-scorched wrists.


    ¡°You can keep the change.¡± The voice from behind me said again, and then there was some shuffle like he was trying to give me some space.


    Luckily, I was right because he wasn¡¯t behind me when I took a step back, and swirling around, intent on seeing the rather prude stranger, I opened my mouth to say something.


    ¡°Damn!¡± I mumbled softly to myself.


    Whatever crude remark I¡¯d been thinking flew away the instant I set my eyes on him, and heat wafted through my cheeks as I blinked again and again.


    Standing in front of me, with a wink and sneaky smile, was the most handsome man I¡¯d ever seen.


    If ¡®sin¡¯ were human, then he¡¯d be the embodiment of it effortlessly. That was the first word that came to mind as soon as I caught a full glimpse of his face. It was unlike any other I¡¯d ever seen.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    His eyes were like two deep hypnotic oceans, intense and sharp, with an unreadable glint. I could undoubtedly lose myself in them, this I knew. His face was also an example of perfection. I¡¯d been taught that everyone was excellent in different ways. But this man right here took the definition of that word to apletely different level.


    His lips were an enticing shade of pink, and the fact that it was stretched in a sneaky smirk had my insides melting into a gooey mess.


    My thighs clenched at the same time, and I was seemingly drowning in this hulk of a man.


    He looked like he was in histe thirties with his broad shoulders and veiny hands. Fuck it, he was handsome. Literally, physically and in every other way.


    A grin bubbled across his face when he spoke up, and my trance was cut short instantly.


    ¡°Hello. You seem quite enraptured? Is there anything you¡¯d like to say to me?¡±

 The Offer

    RENEE


    What an egotistical prick! This statement left my lips the second he said those words. The thought enveloped me as his deep blue eyes entrapped me while I stared at him unabashedly.


    ¡®I seemed pretty enraptured. Was there anything I¡¯d like to say to him?¡¯ I twisted his questions and thought to myself, was there anything I¡¯d like to say to him?


    There was so much I¡¯d like to mumble, maybe up close in his ears, my breasts brushing his chest, and my hands grazing the stubble on his chin.


    He quirked his brows as I took a small step back, embarrassed at being caught staring. I shook my head, trying to discard the illicit thoughts in my head.


    He ced his right elbow on the nearby counter, a clear indication that he wasn¡¯t leaving anytime soon and that he intended to talk to me. His lips were still stretched in that sneaky smirk that did things to my insides, and I swallowed heavily.


    Damnit! I couldn¡¯t stop looking at him.


    When I couldn¡¯t look away, I realized this was the first man I was feeling attracted to in years other than Dn.


    ¡®Was this a good thing or not?¡¯ I pondered, my eyes roaming over him.


    I dragged my gaze from his sinful as fuck face to his chest, and I saw that he had on a white shirt that he filled out amazingly. A small chest tattoo peeked through and I imagined how he¡¯d look naked, my curiosity unstoppable, as different thoughts took over.


    He wore ck shorts, and his legs were so virile and robust. He was so muscr, ripped, and handsome that once again I began to imagine how he¡¯d look sprawled on the bed with nothing on.


    The grip of my hand on my cup tightened, and I took a small gulp of the tropical drink, soothing my parched throat.


    ¡°You¡¯re not saying anything, baby girl?¡± His deep husky voice broke through the steamy silence between us, and pleasure rippled through me at what he called me.


    I felt goosebumps on my skin, and I could tell my cheeks were burning bright red.


    Baby girl¡­


    My mind began to wander and as my eyes closed briefly, I imagined myself on all fours, with this heavily built man behind me, plowing the insides of my pussy.


    At intervals, he¡¯d call me baby girl, his veiny hands snaking around my waist and his vast fingers finding the folds of my pussy, stroking it. At the same time, I would scream ande undone, his name leaving my mouth as I reached my orgasm.


    He would finger fuck me, bring me to the edge, satisfying me so much. He was older than me. This was a bonus point for my illicit thoughts because it meant he¡¯d be experienced and¡­


    ¡°Baby girl¡­¡± He called out, interrupting my sex-fused reverie, and I blinked twice.


    I felt a warm sensation ripple through me, and biting my lower lips unconsciously, I began to feel hot.


    ¡°Oh, when you bite your lips like that?¡± He groaned animalistically, and before  I knew what was happening, he took a step forward and brought his fingers to my lips, caressing gently.


    ¡°What-¡± I started to say, but he shushed me, a grin on his lips.


    He brushed my lips with his fingers, his hands going to my wavy strawberry-blonde hair, and he caressed it gently too.


    ¡°I guess the first thing I should ask would be your name, right?¡± He asked.


    ¡°My name is Renee, and you?¡± I blurted out.


    ¡°Hmmmn¡­ Renee.¡± A deep growl emanated from his lips as he brushed my hair softly. ¡°Such a lovely name.¡±


    Sweat broke out all over me, and I shuddered slowly with my breathinging in small, rapid pants.


    ¡°I¡¯m Robert. Robert rke. We can keep the rest of the introductions forter. You¡¯re shaking. Are you horny?¡± He asked sharply, catching me off guard and I let out another flustered breath.


    My eyes shifted and I looked around , wondering if anyone had heard him ask that question. Luckily for me, no one seemed to be nearby.


    The man who¡¯d served us earlier was nowhere to be found, and the whole ce was a bit rowdy, with everyone minding their business.


    No one seemed to be looking at us, and a wave of relief filled me instantly.


    ¡°Are you horny, Renee?¡± Robert asked again.


    Still flushed, I lied through my teeth, ¡°No!¡±


    The curves of his lips broke into another wide grin as if making a mockery of me. He knew I was lying.


    ¡°Your breathing is shallow, and you¡¯re shaking softly¡­.¡± His fingers left my hair, and he began stroking my cheek. ¡°Your legs are trembling, and I¡¯m sure your ck panties are already wet. Your plump lips keep begging me for a kiss because you¡¯re biting them unconsciously. I¡¯m not a mind reader, but I know you crave something I can give you.¡±


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I blurted out, cursing under my breath as I tried to take a step back, wanting some space between us, but he gripped my shoulders, entrapping me and not letting go.


    ¡°You desperately want a man¡¯s touch. You want me to touch you, and I assure you I will do that. I would take you to ces you¡¯ve never seen, baby girl¡­ You need to trust me.¡±


    ¡°You¡­ you¡­ are¡­ You¡¯re a stranger. I¡­ I don¡¯t want to¡­.¡± I stammered defensively, still trying to leave, but he wasn¡¯t letting go, and for some weird reason, I liked that he wasn¡¯t. I liked how he dominated me in this public ce.


    ¡°So meek and shy, exactly my type,¡± Robert said again, his eyes twinkling and my thighs clenched involuntarily.


    ¡°I would like to fuck you.¡± He said, not mincing words. ¡°You might think I¡¯m crude or blunt, but since I saw you, I couldn¡¯t think of anything other than drilling your tight hole. You know¡­ I¡¯ve been watching you since I saw you at the beach with your friend yesterday.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been stalking me? Are you a pervert or wh-¡±


    ¡°Come with me.¡± He said, cutting me off and taking a step backward, he then stretched his hand toward me.


    ¡°I shoulde with you, to where? Hell, I don¡¯t even know who you are!¡± I almost yelled, stopping myself at thest second.


    ¡®What the hell is wrong with you, Renee? You¡¯re attracted to this man. Why not go for it, and have the time of your life? Nicole is already off with a stranger enjoying herself, and you want to keep being meek and holy? Why don¡¯t you ept this offer? Why don¡¯t you be with this insanely hot as fuck man? Do you want to miss this offer of a lifetime?¡¯


    I could hear my inner voice urging me on, and I flushed, my face gleaming red as I thought it over.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, baby girl, I won¡¯t bite.¡± Robert said again.


    Maybe, I needed to take him up on his offer. What was the worst that would happen? I knew he¡¯d satisfy me well,  so what? Dn was already having fun, but here I was contemting and thinking like a moron. Now I had an opportunity, but I was letting it go to waste. No!


    This man had been watching me. He might have evene to buy the drinks on purpose so he could talk to me. He was making an effort, and it was so sexy.


    ¡°I need to tell my friend that I won¡¯t being back to our room. She¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°Take your time, princess.¡± He said softly, kissing my knuckles and I gave him a warm smile, suddenly feeling free with him.


    His little gestures and flirtatious winks turned me on, and now my nipples were hard as a rock already.


    Pftttt¡­ Taking my phone out from the little pouch bag strapped to my waist, I quickly sent Nicole a text, telling her that I was off to some shenanigans with a very handsome stranger and a smile on my lips, I giggled slightly when her text came through.


    Nicole: Damn girl, who is he? I want all the freaking details, ma¡¯am.


    Me: Of course ma cherie.


    I texted back and quickly dropped my phone back in my purse, even though it chimed with a response from her again.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± Robert asked,ing close and brushing my hair softly.


    I nodded shyly, batting my eyshes as I stared at the floor-anywhere but at him.


    ¡°Okay, then.¡± He whispered and cing his hands on my shoulders, he gently began to steer me out of the small hut-like building.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°What about your drinks?¡± I asked.


    ¡°I have something better than some tropical fruit juice. I want to taste you, sweet girl. And not that¡­¡± He trailed off, flirting excessively with me, and I blushed all over.


    However, as we walked, I kept asking myself over and over if I was doing the right thing.

 Call Me, Daddy

    ROBERT


    ¡°Gently, gently¡­¡±


    I whispered as I held Renee¡¯s hands tightly, brushing her skin now and then as we walked to my hotel suite.


    It was like a dream. The woman I¡¯d fantasized aboutst night was in my arms, and every now and then, I kept shooting her a nce, wanting to know if she was real.


    I¡¯d seen her at the beach partyst night when I held a meeting with my business partners. The moment she¡¯d stepped into my line of sight, the wheels in my head had began to turn.


    For the first time in years, I¡¯d felt an insanely possessive urge to dominate a woman and I vowed within myself that I¡¯d have her before leaving this damned city.


    Wherever I had to go to find her, whatever length I had to make, I¡¯d do it. As long as it got that strawberry-blonde beauty underneath me.


    She¡¯d been wearingrge tops and long-fitted jeans, but still, I could see her every curve. The red cotton material hung over herrge breasts, and even though she was duly covered, I could see the lines of her hard nipples. She didn¡¯t make any effort that night, just drinking with her friend and talking about whatever, but she had my full attention.


    With that milky white skin and big brown eyes sparkling brightly, the mysteriousdy was, without a doubt, the only human who had me enraptured in years.


    Lust or love, at first sight, I didn¡¯t know what to make of it, but I¡¯d vowed to have a taste of her, and anything that happened would determine itselfter.


    I wasn¡¯t into young women, but the moment I¡¯d set eyes on that fresh, young, and petite goddess, I suddenly got a fetish.


    Every time I looked at her, something bubbled from deep within, and at longst when  I was finally done with my business meeting, wanting to go talk to her, she was nowhere to be found.


    I¡¯d asked the party organizers about her, describing the strawberry-blonde beauty to them. Still, no one seemed to know who she was, and with sagging shoulders, I¡¯d returned to my hotel room.


    Taking a cold shower, I masturbated to images of her plump, red-lined lips sucking my dick hard and fast, and my orgasm was heavy like I¡¯d never experienced in my life.


    It was strange. So strange I had these desires for ady half my age, and considering how I¡¯d sworn off women these past few months, it baffled me.


    My sleep had been fruitless, filled with horny dreams. Luckily for me, today, when I¡¯d stepped out for fresh air, I¡¯d spotted her.


    She had on the sexiest swimwear I¡¯d ever seen, and the moment I¡¯d set my eyes on her, I knew I was gone for life. I knew I had to make my move or else¡­.


    ¡°Are we there yet?¡± Her meek voice cut through my thoughts. Blinking twice, I twirled her slowly until her back was to me and then replied, ¡°Soon, baby girl. Soon.¡±


    I knew she was blushing because her whole body shook slightly, and I chuckled.


    Still leading her through the corridor, we finally got to the door that led to my room. Swiping my electric card, the door opened, and we walked in together.


    ¡°Oh my¡­¡± She gasped, her eyes flickering as she surveyed my suite and I grinned proudly.


    She had no idea I owned this hotel, and I was fucking wealthy.


    Honestly, I loved how we got to know each other and how natural the conversation had been ever since.


    Women flocked to me because of my wealth. But that was not the case with Renee. She had no idea who I really was, and I liked that.


    She was with me for one obvious reason, to have sex. And that was all. Or was it not?


    ¡°Is this your room or¡­?¡±


    ¡°Yes, this is where I¡¯m staying for the time being.¡±


    ¡°The time being?¡± She asked, turning to face me, her brows quirked in confusion.


    ¡°I¡¯m here on a business trip.¡± I said curtly, not wanting to prolong the conversation. ¡°Are you still thirsty, or did your tropical juice satisfy you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m thirsty.¡± She said albeit absentmindedly, her eyes still roaming around my room.


    ¡°Unfortunately for you, the only drink I have here you have to get from my body, from under my waistline, to be precise and it¡¯s in abundance, baby girl.¡±


    A cough escaped her lips as she whirled around to face me, her whole body suddenly red, her eyes wide in confusion.


    She was biting her plump lips, her hands stroking her chest and the edges of her breasts. At the same time, her eyes strayed down my body¡­to my crotch and the bulging erection in disy.


    The atmosphere was bing heated, and I could hear the shallow sounds of herbored breathing as I took a step forward.


    ¡°Baby girl¡­¡± I whispered into her ear, nudging my head and kissing the base of her neck.


    She was so small in front of me, and as I continued trailing kisses down her neck, my finger hovered on her chest. I so desperately wanted to feel her breasts. We were more than close now, and I literally had them within my grasp, but I was going to make her beg me to touch them.


    Every single thing I nned on doing to her this afternoon, she was going to fucking beg for.


    She¡¯d be a good girl for me. I grinned inwardly, inhaling her persimmon scent, and at the same time, my dick twitched.


    Her breathing hitched, and she gripped myrge arm with one of her hands, trying to steady her trembling body, and I chuckled.


    ¡°How long has it been since you¡¯ve let a man fuck you?¡± I asked softly, and she said nothing, just breathing heavily.


    ¡°How long since a man made you scream and beg for his dick?¡± I asked again, and she whimpered in response, her hands gripping my arms very tightly, her nails digging into my flesh, but I loved the pain it brought.


    ¡°How would you like me to fuck you now? What do you want?¡± I asked, and this time my fingers were at the side of her waist.


    I ced them on the line of her skirt. Taking her off guard, I dipped my fingers beneath the cloth of her panties until I reached her pussy and she let out a gasp.


    It was wet like I¡¯d expected. Fuck!


    I gave the little bud a small stroke, then another, and another. I touched her until she was a quivering mess in front of me, barely able to stand still as I continued the movements.


    ¡°Oh fuck! Oh, Da¡­ Oh, Daddy¡­¡±


    My hands froze, and instantly I felt her hands reach into her panties as she  tried to force my hand into stroking her again, but I refused.


    ¡°What did you say?¡±


    Her eyes were closed, but she opened them slightly as I asked the question. Her hands left her panties likewise mine, and she instantly took a step back from me.


    She was flushed. Her whole body was red. So darn red!


    She looked down at my fingers dripping with her cum and I could tell she was embarrassed.


    ¡°What did you just call me, baby girl?¡± I asked again, taking a step toward her but she  took another backwards and began apologizing.


    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m sorry I got carried away, and I¡­.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t apologize!¡± I groaned huskily and, in a sh, I had her trapped in my hold, my arms around her small frame. ¡°Say it again.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± She asked, looking defiant.


    I smirked. ¡°Call me Daddy. I¡¯m your daddy, it¡¯s only appropriate in this situation, and it makes me want to fuck you so hard.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I can¡¯t call you that. I don¡¯t know what came over me and¡­.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯ll learn to call me that, I promise you,¡± I winked and grabbing her hands, I began to lead her shaky legs to one of the couches in the room.


    ¡°Stay here.¡± Imanded, and she nodded once.


    Closing the suite¡¯s curtains and ensuring the lights were dimmed, I ced some cool fragrance everywhere. Then I put on a slow music in therge home theater, quickly creating my ideal fuck scene.


    In seconds I was done and taking off my shirt, I sat down on the couch opposite her.


    Silence descending between us, I stared at her closed thighs while she stared at my bare chest, and we said nothing for some time.


    ¡°You must listen to everything I tell you to do, okay? If you don¡¯t, I will have no choice but to let you leave. Can youply?¡± I asked, finally breaking the chilly silence.


    ¡°What are you going to ask of me?¡± She replied to my question with a question of her own. Her voice was throaty, and my fists clenched a bit.


    ¡°You¡¯ll hear them soon. However, can youply?¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°We will start with you calling me Daddy. Okay?¡± Even in the dim lighting, I knew she badly wanted to say no, but luckily she did as I wanted and nodded curtly.


    ¡°Good girl. Now strip for me.¡±

 The Strip Tease

    RENEE


    It¡¯d been minutes or maybe an hour since I¡¯d entered this luxurious suite of Robert rke, the mysterious hot stranger who had picked me up from the tropical fruit stand earlier, and ever since then, I¡¯ve been a mess in his hands.


    From admiring his room to exchanging subtle flirts, his daring crude questions, and almosting undone on his fingers, I was already living a dream.


    He¡¯d just told me to strip for him, and with a gasp apanying his order, I stared deep into his piercing blue eyes. They were rimmed with some kind of conundrum I couldn¡¯t exin.


    He wanted me to strip for him. I was supposed to be embarrassed, but instead, I felt the exact opposite. If anything, I was hot, wet, and ready to do whatever he told me. Though I¡¯d not admit that to him yet.


    ¡°I¡¯m still waiting, baby girl.¡± His deep voice filled the heated air and my already closed thighs clenched more.


    Remembering how he¡¯d skillfully stroked my clit, like an instrument he knew well, my cheeks flushed, and I was tempted to reply him with something sultry, too¡­


    ¡°Yes, Daddy.¡± I blurted out, and my jaw dropped as I realized what I¡¯d said, but it was toote to take my words back.


    My words had the desired effect on him though, because I saw heat re into his eyes. He also brought his hand to his chin as he gritted his jaw slightly, and the sound was audible even to my ears.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± He drawled, still leaningfortably on the couch opposite me. ¡°You¡¯re making me wait. I¡¯m going to punish you so much for this. Strip for me. I hate repeating myself, but I¡¯ve been doing just that since we¡¯ve stepped into this suite.¡±


    ¡°Well, if I don¡¯t?¡± I smirked, shooting him a wink and his look darkened before he then replied-his words sending a tremor through my thighs, ¡°Then I¡¯ll fuck you with your clothes on. Or I¡¯ll punish you badly. Make you wish you¡¯d obeyed my orders from the beginning. How about that?¡±


    A gasp escaped my lips, and I shrugged at him, opening my legs wide, with my hands going to my bra top.


    ¡°Good, continue.¡± He growled as I began to loosen the knots of my bra.


    I took my time undressing, wanting to act sexy in front of him.


    This would be my first time doing something like this-stripping in front of a man. Dn never told me to strip. He was a rush hour kind of man and whenever we were together, he would either undress me himself or fuck me with my clothes on.


    Now that I thought of it, I wished Dn had allowed me to undress in front of him because I was enjoying this particr order.


    I was silent, deeply engrossed in stripping naked, until I was finally done. My wrap skirt was off, my bra on the floor, my round boobs naked and puckered ready, while my wet as fuck panties were still in ce.


    Fixing his gaze on my breasts, I did catch him licking his lips for a moment, but he stopped when our eyes locked. That action was hot.


    I imagined him licking my nipples with his tongue, and the graphical image in my head sent shivers of pleasure all over my body. I also thought about him sucking my clit and eating me out¡­


    ¡°Don¡¯t take off your panties.¡± His voice chimed in, cutting off my thoughts.


    My wandering hands at the hem of my panties froze, and blinking twice; removing my eyes from his, I quickly did as ordered, dropping my hands.


    I was seated half naked in front of him, my thighs closed again, and my whole body shook pleasurably. I was red all over, goosebumps all over my body, and the illicit moan soundsing from the loudspeakers in the room did nothing to ease my tension.


    ¡°Fuck! You¡¯re so gorgeous. Just like I¡¯d imagined. Look at those curves and your nipples begging for my touch. That slim waist and your long legs I¡¯ll raise over my shoulders and¡­ Baby girl¡­ I can¡¯t wait to be buried inside y-¡± He paused instantly.


    ¡°What¡­¡±


    ¡°ce your left fingers on your clit, and touch it slowly for me.¡±


    ¡°Wait, what? You want me to touch myself? I¡¯m not even fully naked, remember? You told me not to take off my panties, so how do you expect me to do that?¡± I questioned, surprised.


    He didn¡¯t nod or say anything in response, just watched me intently, his eyes hooded and his jaw ticking.


    I remembered his order earlier. He¡¯d asked that I obey his every word and seeing how he looked at me, I knew I had no option but to obey him. I had to do as he said, so I slipped my fingers into my panties, a whimper escaping my lips as I touched my pussy.


    At first, it felt weird. This was another first for me. I  masturbated privately at home when I was horny or sometimes when Dn would fuck me raw but failed to satisfy me. I would then resort to watching porn and getting myself off.


    I never did it in front of him, though because most times he¡¯d be asleep or in the shower while I got to work.


    But now, I was touching myself in front of a stranger I¡¯d just met. And I didn¡¯t feel self-conscious or awkward.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± A moan escaped my lips.


    My eyes closed, and my head rolled backward on the couch as I imagined this man, Robert rke, fucking me missionary style on therge king-sized bed in his suite.


    He¡¯d be staring into my eyes, whispering sweet nothings in my ear while I screamed Daddy, and gripped his arms tightly.


    ¡°Oh¡­ oh yesss¡­¡± I moaned unashamedly, my fingers stroking my clit faster. I was on edge, the feeling of my impending orgasm resurfacing for the second time today.


    Suddenly he growled, ¡°Stop!¡±


    ¡°No! No!¡± I countered, my head shaking wildly from left to right as I continued to stroke myself faster. There was no way I was denying myself this feeling after he¡¯d rid me of it the first time.


    ¡°Stop! I told you to stop. Fucking stop and look at me!¡± He yelled, his voice so loud that it shook me to the core, and I opened my eyes in a sh.


    I could feel my climax leaving me already, that rippling sensual sensation detonating, and tears almost escaped my eyes in frustration.


    ¡°Look at me, baby girl! Look at me¡­.¡± He ordered, and I slowly straightened my face to look at him.


    My panties were wet as fuck. So damp that I squeezed my thighs, and blinking my closed eyes open, I arranged my quivering body. ¡°What the-?¡±


    He was no longer sitting on the couch. Instead, he stood in front of me, fully naked, his erection pointing straight and throbbing.


    He must have stroked himself while I masturbated, undressing as I brought myself close to my peak.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I cursed again, my eyes roaming over his sculpted body, muscles, and impressive length.


    What the fuck? I hissed to myself, pain and pleasure coursing through me.


    He was so huge. So vast and thick and my mouth fell open.


    He was so big. The biggest I¡¯d ever seen and for a brief second, I was scared, wondering how he¡¯d fit inside my pussy.


    As if he could read my mind, he said, ¡°I won¡¯t hurt you tonight, Renee. Trust me.¡±


    For some unknown reason, I believed he wouldn¡¯t hurt me, that he¡¯d go easy on me. So I gave him a meek look, showing my submissiveness to him.


    ¡°That¡¯s my girl¡± He said, taking a step forward, standing so close that his dick was directly positioned in front of my face, and he stroked my hair gently.


    He took a step backward, stretched his hands toward me, and then said, ¡°Come, baby girl. It¡¯s time to get to work.¡±


    I ced my hand in his, and gently lifting me up, he directed me to his bed.


    He pushed me to a sitting position on the mattress, and I watched as he went on his knees. Without saying a word, he spread my legs and positioned his face between them.


    ¡°You know why I asked you to leave this on?¡± He asked, looking at me, one of his hands snaking up to my breasts which he squeezed gently.


    I shook my head no, waiting for his response, and his words came out in a growl, as he said, ¡°Because I wanted to fucking tear them off you.¡±


    With one swift movement, he yanked my panties off with his strong hand, and the coolness of the air sting on my bare pussy had me moaning out loud.


    ¡°So pretty. My pussy, all mine. These pretty pink lips just for me alone¡­.¡± He muttered, and as I watched him stare at my pussy, the image stuck in my head.


    His fingers grazed my clit, and my back arched off the bed but his firm grip held me in ce.


    ¡°All dripping wet for daddy¡­.¡± He croaked, and I gently replied with a yes.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Good girl.¡± He said again, his fingers grazing my pussy lips, that for a while, I forgot about everything and instead enjoyed this brief sensation.


    ¡°I promised to take it easy tonight, right?¡± He asked rhetorically.


    However, before  I could answer, he thrust a finger into my pussy, then another, and another until three fingers were inside me, stretching me wide and I moaned loudly, my hips bucking.


    ¡°Oh please¡­¡± I groaned, my hands going to his shoulders and as if my moans urged him on, he instinctively started to finger fuck me hard!

 Come For Daddy

    ROBERT


    My fingers thrusted hard inside Renee¡¯s wet-as-fuck pussy.


    Her hips bucked at intervals, and I used my left hand to keep her torso still as I pleasured  her. I continued to pump my fingers in and out while she moaned loudly, the sound like music to my ears.


    My thrusts continued, the bed making rickety sounds as her hips kept bucking and Renee thrashed wildly under my touch.


    For seconds I said nothing, just finger fucking the hell out of her.


    Finally, I slowed down a bit despite her humming disapproval, and grazing my thumb on her clit I asked, ¡°Do you like this baby girl?¡±


    ¡°Mmmmmm¡­. I¡­ I¡­¡± She stuttered, unable to string a sentence together, her whole body quivering as she whimpered softly.


    I gazed up at her, and blood shot to my groin. Her sexy face was looking down at me. Her wandering hands strayed to my head, and with her fingers in my hair, she gripped tightly.


    ¡°You like this, Renee? Don¡¯t you?¡± I asked, and she hummed appreciatively.


    I withdrew my fingers from her pussy and she started to protest again, I ced my lips on her glistening wet pussy lips, wanting to taste this heaven.


    ¡°Oh R- Oh Daddy!¡± She moaned loudly, her hands tightening in my hair, her words urging me to continue.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Like a beast who hadn¡¯t eaten for days, I began to lick her folds. My tongue deepened in this sweet abyss. I mouth-fucked her like my life depended on it.


    Her legs shook as Ipped hungrily, and soon she began to moan wildly, announcing her impending orgasm whilst a proud feeling surged through me.


    My dick twitched painfully, and I could already feel my pre cum wetness at the tip, but still, I didn¡¯t stop licking and sucking her folds. I kept eating it like it was myst meal.


    Damn, I was so hungry for her.


    Pausing my movements, I straightened and positioned my lips on her vagina. I then raised her left leg over my shoulder, with two of my fingers diving into that tight hole, and said, ¡°Let go, baby girl. I want to see youe so hard and long for Da-¡±


    I didn¡¯t finish my sentence because she squirted on my face, her legs convulsing rapidly.


    ¡°Oh, Daddy! Oh, fuck! Yessssss¡­ Touch me like that¡­ I¡¯m squi¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it, baby, give it to me. All for me.¡± I urged as she kept squirting, my fingers rubbing her clit faster while she sobbed out in pleasure.


    She let out a wild cry, convulsing again as her body shook, and then she went limp.


    Her breathing wasbored. The  sound filled the air while I smiled, satisfied at making her orgasm for the first time.


    As I stared at her clenching folds, the juices dripping, I vowed within myself that this wouldn¡¯t be the only time I¡¯d have a taste of this enchanting pussy.


    If I had any ns of just fucking her for one night, well, they flew out the window.


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡± Renee called, her voice throaty and so sexy it reminded me of my throbbing dick, and on impulse, it twitched.


    ¡°Baby girl.¡± I called out and grabbing  a small towel by the side of my bed, I proceeded to wipe my fingers and some bits of my face that¡¯d been covered with her juice.


    Standing up slowly, I towered over her limp figure on the bed. She wasx, like she couldn¡¯t move at all and a smirk appeared on my lips, knowing I¡¯d exhausted her.


    I slowly leaned over her and ced a kiss on her lips.


    At the same time, her hands went to my neck and wrapping them around my shoulders, she kissed me passionately with so much vigor, tasting her arousal on my lips.


    My dick was throbbing painfully. It couldn¡¯t wait to be buried deep inside her folds and I shook a bit, trying to steady myself but it  didn¡¯t help my hyper arousal.


    If I didn¡¯t fuck Renee now, I¡¯d lose my sanity and that I couldn¡¯t even afford.


    ¡°Are you ready for your Daddy, baby girl?¡± I questioned, tearing my lips from hers, and looking deeply into her eyes.


    She slowly nodded.


    I arranged her lithe legs over my shoulders as I leaned sideways and grabbed a condom from my drawer.


    I wanted to fuck her raw. I wanted to enjoy the feeling of being fully inside her, but I couldn¡¯t forget that I didn¡¯t know her well. I couldn¡¯t go about randomly ejecting my seed in women.


    I¡¯d made a mistake some years ago that¡¯s still haunting me. I couldn¡¯t imagine making the same mistake after all these years. Worse still, with this poor young woman who had no idea who I really was.


    I pped the condom down my aching dick and stroking myself twice as she watched with hooded eyes, I positioned myself between her.


    Shaking my head, I then asked for her permission to dive in, and she nodded in response. I could see the fear in her eyes, and I  knew she was worried about my size, but I had to go easy on her.


    I used the tip of my cock to rub her clit slowly and she trembled, moaning at that little gesture.


    The moment she closed her eyes, her hair falling back and syed out, I let out a growl and drove into her.


    ¡°Ahhhh¡­¡± She cried out, her hips shaking as she tried to amodate my enormous size.


    Albeit slowly, I went in deeper and deeper, and she urged me on.


    ¡°Should I stop?¡± I asked when I heard a low whimper escape her lips but she shook her head no.


    ¡°No¡­ no, don¡¯t stop, Daddy. Don¡¯t stop.¡±


    One of her hands was syed on my stomach and when she called me Daddy, I lost my restraint and letting go, I began to fuck her hard.


    I slid in and out of her pussy like I belonged there and she moaned dreamily while I growled, drowning myself inside her.


    The sound of our skin pping together echoed around the suite.


    Sweat dusted my skin and she wrapped her arms around, clinging to me.


    ¡°Fuck, baby girl!¡± I moaned, my sight distorted and my voice so husky it was almost unrecognizable. I felt my budding climax stirring deep in my stomach at the same time.


    ¡°Fucking hell, fucking pussy!¡± I growled again, ¡°I knew you¡¯d be so tight and wet for me, but I didn¡¯t expect it to be so amazing.¡± I said as I continued to pump into her, jaw gritting while my body moved on its own ord and went intopsing.


    I was starting to lose control.


    With one hand reaching to her breasts, I tweaked her nipple, and staring deep into her eyes, I continued to pound her like a madman.


    ¡°Fuck, Renee¡­¡± I groaned, pping her clit harshly, her ass too, and then as I kept pumping into her, feeling my cum drawing close, I bent and took her lips in mine for a rather aggressive kiss.


    ¡°Daddy¡­ I¡¯m going toe again.¡±


    ¡°Yes, baby girl! Yes,e for Daddy!¡± Imanded, and just like that, she let go.


    Her body convulsed, and her grip on my shoulders tightened as her nails dug into my flesh.


    I growled at the pain. The smell of blood, sex, and sweat filled my nostrils, and then I came undone. My face contorted, my balls tightened, and my seed spurted into the condom.


    I could feel her juices through the condom, milking my dick and her thighs continued to shake as we rode the wave of ecstasy and bliss together.


    Fuck! This felt amazing. The best sex I¡¯d had in my 43 years of existence.

 A Very Perfect Morning

    RENEE


    The next day, the cool breeze whipped into the room, and the shining sunbeams woke me from my otherwise peaceful slumber.


    A yawn escaped my lips and stillying stiff, I tried to stretch, but I froze when I felt movement from beneath me.


    ¡°Ohhhh¡­¡± I gasped in pleasure, my hands reaching downwards, as suspected, I came into contact with curly hair and a face positioned between my thighs under the nkets.


    ¡°Ahhhh¡­¡± I gasped, my hands gripping the ck locks of none other than Robert, my daddy, and insane sex freak.


    ¡°Oh, yessss¡­¡± I half yelled, my legs shaking as I felt a finger go into my pussy, and then another, and he began to rub my clit so fast I almost lost control.


    ¡®Oh, what an excellent way to wake up¡­. What a splendid way to start one¡¯s day?¡¯ I was already thinking, but then he began to pump his fingers, fucking me abrasively, and I gripped the sheets for support underneath me.


    I was still sore from all our sexcapades yesterday from noon to dusk, but I still wanted this. My  nails dug into the sheets, and my eyes closed as he finger fucked me.


    Soon enough, I started to feel a sweet sensation deep in my belly, and suddenly he stopped moving his fingers and instead flicked the bud of my clit with his tongue, making me go crazy.


    My legs shook, and a breathless moan escaped my lips as he continued to swirl his tongue around my clit, using his mouth to take me to heaven.


    ¡°Do you like that baby girl?¡± I heard him ask, more like mumbled to me because his words sounded incoherent, but I strung the sentence together.


    ¡°Yes, Daddy.¡± I let out, one of my hands gripping his hair again, and I held it tight while my hips bucked against his lips.


    ¡°Look down at me.¡±  He growled, his voice rough and deep, ¡°I want you to look at me when I eat your pussy.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Daddy¡­¡± I breathed, eyes fluttering closed even as I arched my neck to look at him. ¡°Please make mee¡­.¡± I begged, my hands wandering from his hair to his back and shoulders as I dug my nail into his flesh.


    ¡°Trust me, baby girl. You trust me.¡± He growled, and just when I thought he was done, he lifted my ass and both of my legs from the bed to his shoulders and then positioned his face deeper in my pussy.


    ¡°Da-¡± I began to say, biting my lips, but I paused as another sweet sensation coursed through me and I felt my orgasm building already.


    With his  teeth, hepped at my clit and then sucked hard until I whimpered and writhed in his arms. Then he pushed his finger into me, then began to thrust in and out, maintaining a steady tempo that kept bringing me to the edge.


    Oh, how desperate was I to feel his cock in me! Damn! This was so hot.


    It was one thing to have a rebound after a breakup, but knowing how hot this man was and the satisfaction he gave me, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder when this would end. If I had my way, I would let him fuck me till eternity and beyond¡­


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡± I cried out, feeling so close already.


    One of his hands sneaked up toward my breasts. He began to squeeze my nipples while the tempo of his finger in my pussy increased.


    My breathing was harsh and ragged now. I could hardly see straight, even with the sunlight streaming through the windows. His hand left my breasts, and he gently smacked my clit, making me convulse, with my orgasm iing.


    ¡°Oh, Renee¡­¡± He muttered, pping my clit, and withdrawing his fingers from me. As I began to mouth my frustration, I felt his mouth again on my pussy lips as he started sucking like his life depended on it.


    Every touch and kiss sent shivers down my spine. I felt pleasure as he stretched every crevice and nerve ending of my vagina and as he pped hungrily, I couldn¡¯t take it anymore.


    The way he ate me was enough to make me go crazy, and I could barely breathe, with all my senses going numb.


    Then it was over, and everything felt different again as I heard him mumble, ¡°Let go for me, baby girl. Just let go for me.¡±


    How he knew I was ready toe baffled me, but I did as he told me and let go.


    My thighs thrashed, my legs on his shoulders shaking, I held onto him tightly as I came over and over.


    ¡°You¡¯re such a good girl.¡± He said, his hot breath tickling my face. He was already hovering over me, his handsome face staring at me.


    I smiled up at him with heavy lids and aching muscles.


    ¡°That felt amazing.¡± I  whispered, my eyes fluttering at him as I thought about what had just happened. It seemed like a dream, but the sore reminder in my thighs and the wetness on the bed told me all I needed to know.


    This was reality. I was in bed with the hot stranger who picked me up yesterday afternoon and brought me to his suite.


    ¡°Good morning.¡± I greeted, and he frowned.


    ¡°You¡¯re missing something.¡± He said, arching his brow.


    Knowing what he meant, I smirked and added obligingly, ¡°Good morning, Daddy.¡±


    A wide smile appeared on his lips, and he kissed my forehead before getting off me.


    I turned to the side of the bed, dragging the bedsheets with me. I stared at his naked form, my eyes dropping between his legs at his thickened length and erect manhood. It twitched slightly, and arousal pooled between my legs.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to take care of that?¡± I asked him, pointing at his dick.


    He winked, bouncing toward me. A  knock on the door had him freezing on his feet, and then masking his irritation, he said, ¡°Seems our breakfast is here. Can you see to it while I take care of this small distraction in the bathroom?¡±


    Disappointment showed on my face, and I let out a huff hating this brief  interruption.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just f-¡± I began, but he had already turned, walking toward the bathroom, leaving me to stare at his taut sexy ass.


    ¡°See to the room service, baby girl, and tip them. My wallet¡¯s by the bedside. When you¡¯re done, meet me in the shower. I¡¯m here for you always. Ain¡¯t going nowhere.¡±


    The bathroom door closed, and I fell back to the bed with a thud and a sigh.


    I smiled and ruminated on hisst statement: ¡®I¡¯m here for you. Ain¡¯t going nowhere.¡¯ I was already reading deep into his words.


    As I tried to imagine being with him forever, the doorbell rang again. I groaned in frustration, getting up from the bed, dragging the sheets with me.


    ¡°I¡¯ming.¡± I groaned. Oh darn it!

 The Date Request

    RENEE


    ¡°Will you be free tonight?¡±


    The makeup brush in my hand froze as I stared at Robert through the bedside mirror.


    He was standing right behind me, dressing. It felt nostalgic that we were so close, preparing like a couple. It looked like we did this every day, and a wave of Deja vu went through me as I recalled that I did this with Dn.


    We prepared every morning and¡­Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Renee?¡± He called out again, this time leaning closer and cing a kiss on my naked shoulder. His lips made me shiver slightly.


    ¡°I¡­ What did you ask?¡± I asked, dumbfounded and lost in my thoughts.


    ¡°I asked if you¡¯d be free tonight. I want to see you.¡±


    A blush crept up my cheeks, and my heart leaped as I realized he wanted to see me. Frankly speaking, I wanted to see him too.


    Recalling our sexcapadesst night, this morning¡¯s oral sex, and then the hot fucking in the bathroom-my sore thighs clenched while I blushed uncontrobly.


    If not for me telling Nicole I was going to see her this morning, Lord knows I¡¯d love to stay with him. But he has a business meeting to attend too.


    Meeting his gaze in the mirror, I was tempted to ask him more about himself, but I reminded myself that this was just a small fling, and once I left for Ondo, he might forget all about me, or worse¡­


    ¡°Robert¡­ I¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡± I muttered honestly.


    His lips curved into a knowing smile, and I wondered what was going on in his mind.


    ¡°Calling me Robert feels weird. I find myself wanting you to call me Daddy, even when we¡¯re not fucking.¡±


    ¡°Rob-¡± I drawled, dropping the brush as I whirled the seat around to face him.


    Clutching the towel wrapped around my body tightly, I pouted my lips. Thinking briefly about what he¡¯d asked me, I tried to find the courage to answer him. But the question caught me off guard.


    ¡°You¡¯re asking if I¡¯ll be free tonight. Will you be, though? What¡¯s your schedule?¡±


    He shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t work on Saturdays.  I have an important meeting with a colleague, but I¡¯m usually here all day. It¡¯s the weekend already, lest you¡¯ve forgotten, and considering what we both didst night, we need to catch up on sleep.¡± He gave me a wink and added, ¡°Besides, there¡¯s one thing we can always look forward to during weekends.¡±


    My heart skipped a beat as I realized what he meant, but I tried to y it cool. ¡°Oh yeah? And what would that be?¡±


    He leaned down and whispered against my ear, his voice breathless and inches away from my face. ¡°Sex.¡±


    Before I could react, the doorbell rang through the whole suite, and I raised my brows in confusion, wondering who it was at this time.


    ¡°Your clothes are probably here.¡± He said, noticing the look on my face.


    ¡°What clothes?¡± I asked, ncing at my dry swimwear spread on the bed, then back at him, but he was already striding from me to the door.


    I stood up, taking a step to check what was going on. He attended to whoever was at the door, and turning to face me, I saw various designerbel bags of clothes in his hands.


    ¡°What is that?¡±


    ¡°I ordered you some clothes.¡± The amusement in his voice riled me.


    ¡°Wait, what? Did you get me clothes? Why? Is this some kind of payment for what happenedst night? What do you-¡± I blurted out, infuriated.


    ¡°Calm down, baby girl.¡± He threw the bags on the bed and packed my woolen swimwear while I watched.


    ¡°Give that back,¡± I said, walking toward him with my hands outstretched. But he didn¡¯t hand it over. ¡°I don¡¯t need your clothes. I¡­ You fed me this morning, and that¡¯s enough. I¡¯m grateful for that, but¡­.¡±


    The meek yet proud woman inside me wasing out, and I suddenly felt shy.


    ¡°Baby girl¡­¡± He drawled, his voice husky and tingly as he added, ¡°Don¡¯t overthink this gesture. I got those clothes because I don¡¯t want motherfuckers to see any part of your body.¡± He finished with a growl, his eyes darkening.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked, wrapping my arms around myself.


    ¡°I mean¡­¡± He took a step forward while I took another backward. ¡°Your body belongs to me. No one is allowed to stare lustfully at it. It¡¯s mine now.¡±


    His arms came up as he moved closer, one hand reaching toward my waist while the other rested on the small of my back as he pulled me into him.


    We paused for a moment after our eyes locked. His expression was nk yet somehow intense.


    My heart beat faster, seeing he was so close now. It took everything I could not to look away. The way he looked down into my eyes¡­ he seemed so calm, almost serene, despite his words and how overtly possessive and dangerous they were.


    I was tempted to remind him that this was a fling and that we¡¯d go our separate ways after a few days. I mean, I was on vacation.


    A part of me wanted nothing more than to let myself be taken over by him. If I could stay here forever with him, then I would. For some reason, it felt right. It felt like what I deserved and needed after all I had been through.


    I was looking into those shiny blue eyes, and I trembled slightly. His voice sounded sweet but not gentle. There was also an undertone that told me he meant what he¡¯d just said, and it sent shivers down my spine, leaving butterflies dancing in my stomach.


    I was his! He¡¯d just said it. His masculine ego couldn¡¯t take it if another man stared at my body. After everything we¡¯d done, I understood the point he wasing from. Or did I?


    The atmosphere was bing tense. As much as I liked it, I wanted to avoid anything leading to us talking too deeply.


    He still wrapped his arms around me, and we were close. So damn close! He was pushing me with hisrge body, and I had no idea how he finally got me against the wall. His raised arms trapped me as he towered over me.


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡± I mumbled, biting my lips, and I heard him hiss.


    ¡°Fuck! I should cancel this meeting and just stay and fuck you. My baby girl, my pet¡­¡± He spoke with an undertone, his fingers on my neck trailing on my half-naked body, a whimper escaping my lips.


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡± I called out again, closing my eyes as I let his breath wash over me. His fingers trailed down from my shoulders to my towel-d breasts.


    ¡°Be ready tonight by eight. We¡¯re going on a date.¡±


    He disentangled my limp body from his arms, no longer trapping me. I hissed at the loss of his heat, opening my eyes.


    He smirked, and I blushed embarrassingly.


    ¡°Funny how you were ready to argue because of the clothes, but I just touched you, and you¡¯re quivering.¡±


    His mockery made me feel gullible, and I tightened my towel over my bodice, saying nothing as I stared at the bags of clothes on the bed nearby.


    ¡°How did you know my size?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m quite imaginative, and I described you in great detail.¡± He answered with a wink, turning away from me and grabbing a suitcase I hadn¡¯t seen earlier.


    ¡°Are you leaving me here?¡± I asked dumbfoundedly. He hummed without saying anything.


    ¡°Robert, talk to me. I don¡¯t understand. I¡¯m meeting you at eight? You don¡¯t even know where I¡¯m staying, but you want us to meet? I don¡¯t even have your cell number, and you¡¯re leaving me alone? Are you going to lock me in?¡±


    ¡°I have my ways, baby girl. There¡¯s a note by the bed with my cell phone number. There¡¯s another keycard for this room. You can leave when you¡¯re done.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I gasped, my eyes wandering to the bedside, and sure enough, there was a note and a spotless ck card, just like he said.


    ¡°Why-¡±


    He was already swiping his electric card at the door, and before I could finish my question, he said, ¡°I¡¯ve nned so many things for us, Renee. Don¡¯t be thinking I¡¯m done with you yet.¡±


    The door clicked shut, and thest thing I saw was his shiny blue eyes gazing at me mysteriously. As for his lips they were still  curved into a sneaky smile, and a chill ran down my spine.


    What the hell have I gotten myself into?

 Half Baked Orgasm

    RENEE


    I stared at myself in the full-length mirror for the umpteenth time.


    My heart hammered wildly in my chest, and I couldn¡¯t contain the excitement and anxiety filling me simultaneously.


    Soon, I¡¯ll be meeting Robert, and I couldn¡¯t exin how tense and edgy I was feeling.


    ¡°You¡¯ll do good, Renee. Tonight is going to go so smoothly, and you¡¯re going toe back with shaky legs. Bet on it.¡±


    I heard Nicole whisper into my ear, her eyes upturned in a wink as she stood behind me.


    ¡°God, I¡¯m so nervous. I don¡¯t think you understand. No, you can¡¯t! You don¡¯t get it!¡± I eximed, my eyes sweeping over my hot as fuck dress.


    I was wearing a stretchy brown satin dress that entuated my curves and made everything look perfect. I loved how the dress hugged my body, leaving nothing to the imagination.


    The material flowed around me like water, showing off my impressive figure and my strappy nude-heeled legs in the most ttering way possible.


    My strawberry-blonde hair fell down my back in banging waves, and my face was caked in light makeup courtesy of Nicole. She¡¯d gone overboard tonight, prepping me and I appreciated every ounce of her efforts because I¡¯de out looking so gorgeous.


    Since I¡¯d arrived at our small motel room, telling her all the details about my rushed one-night stand, she¡¯d been in awe.


    I didn¡¯t exin my sexcapades in full, as I wasn¡¯t good with stuffs like that, but I¡¯d let her know that I had a fantastic night, a blissful morning, and an excellent time in the shower.


    Recalling how she¡¯d squealed when I told her everything, a smile flickered across my lips and I hid it quickly while staring at myself in the mirror.


    Damn! I just hoped Robert loved my look.


    Nicole chuckled from behind me. She broke my wandering thoughts, saying, ¡°Oh, I get what you¡¯re talking about. If anyone understands you, it¡¯s me. I know why you¡¯re nervous. It¡¯s because this would be your first real date with a stranger in years. after Dn. It feels strange and surreal right?¡±


    ¡°Yes! Yeah, you get it.¡± I muttered, feeling a bit empty as I added, ¡°I¡¯ve never for one day imagined this happening. Going on a date with another man, someone other than that bastard. It never urred to me at all!¡± I spat out bitterly and Nicole gently squeezed my shoulders, in her attempt tofort me.


    ¡°You have to be confident tonight, Renee. Think of this date as a new step for you. You¡¯re going out with an insanely hot man and moving on. You no longer care about Dn or the blonde ugly bitches he fucks¡­¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t even think of this date as me moving on, Nicole. I¡­ I¡¯m afraid of feeling too much for him. This is a fling. It will be over just as soon as it started and¡­¡±


    ¡°Shhh¡­ Stop batting yourshes. You would smear your mascara.¡± Nicole cut in. ¡°See¡­¡± She began again, ¡°See this as you enjoying yourself. Don¡¯t feel too much, I¡¯ll warn you. You¡¯re in this for the sex, and that¡¯s the thrill. No strings attached. Don¡¯t be afraid to explore. Live your best life, my bitch!¡± She urged, and I nodded in agreement.


    The sound of my phone ringing startled me. When I stared at the screen, I saw a rather strange unknown number calling me, but I could already guess who it was.


    It was almost eight, and he was probably on his way to pick me up.


    Earlier today, he¡¯d texted with yet another number, informing me to wait for him where we¡¯d met yesterday and since it was a short walk from our motel, I¡¯d agreed.


    ¡°I have to go now.¡± I told Nicole, grabbing my clutch purse and checking myself in the mirror onest time.


    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want an escort?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°I would love to see this man who has my friend fawning over his huge dick.¡±


    ¡°Nicole!¡± I eximed at her crudeness, swiping the answer button of my still-ringing phone and cing it on my ear, I gave Nicole a parting hug and proceeded to leave the room.


    ~~


    ¡®You look astonishingly beautiful, Renee.¡¯ These were the exact same words that¡¯de out of Robert¡¯s mouth the second he saw me.


    On reaching the spot where I was to meet him, I saw a dark-tinted limousine waiting at a safe distance. At first, I never imagined the limousine to be his. So standing in a corner, I looked around expecting him to show up from wherever, but lo and behold, he had stepped out from the expensive luxury car, waving directly at me.


    I knew he was rich, judging by the grand hotel suite he was staying at, but I never expected him to own a limo.


    There were lots of things I had no idea about. However, I was determined to get answers to things like his age, what he did for a living, and more.


    I kept reminding myself that this was a short fling, but I did deserve to know some bits about the man I was fucking.


    After exchanging brief pleasantries and leading me inside the plush car, hemanded his driver to drive us to an address I didn¡¯t recognize and then facing me, he¡¯d asked about my day, making small talk and flirting.


    One thing led to the other, and after I let it slip that I was wearing thecy lingerie from the clothes he bought me earlier, he¡¯d demanded to see the panties. And then now¡­ Robert rke was finger fucking me!


    The limousine wasrge and stretchy, with a window separating us from the driver at the front, giving us the privacy to live our best life here.


    Yes! I was living my best life actually.


    I was more than wet, my pussy juice soaking his fingers as I rode his hand, intent on bringing myself to a much-needed orgasm.


    ¡°Yes!¡± I moaned, my eyes closed as he continued to stroke my pussy. It felt amazing, like a fucking massage machine but so much more satisfying.


    The way his fingers moved in me made me feel better than any dildo I¡¯d ever used.


    ¡°Come on, my little slut. Let daddy show you how good it can be~¡± He purred in an intense voice that sent shivers down my pussy, and just when I felt myself on edge, he withdrew a finger.


    The vehicle came to a halt, and I realized we were probably at our destination for the night. But Robert wasn¡¯t done with me yet, so we couldn¡¯t leave.


    Speaking of Robert¡­ I nced at him and saw a cocky grin on his face as he withdrew another finger from inside my pussy, leaving just one.


    ¡°Please¡­ just finish your job¡­.¡± I whispered, hoping he¡¯d continue because I already had an idea of how this would y out. Still, he said nothing, just smirked as he stared intently at me.


    ¡°Please, Daddy¡­¡± I said.


    ¡°No. You¡¯ll get much better treatment when we get to the yacht.¡±


    ¡°The yacht? Wait, what?!¡± I questioned, my legs still quivering with his one finger on my clit.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    To my astonishment, Robert withdrew thest finger from my pussy, his thumb grazing my clit, while I whimpered in frustration.


    ¡°No, you wouldn¡¯t dare.¡± I half yelled, dragging my face downward as I used my hands to grab his wrist, but he wouldn¡¯t budge. ¡°Finish what you started!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re at our destination, sweetheart.¡± He drawled teasingly, and I didn¡¯t miss the mockery in his voice as he said those words.


    Shameless, I pleaded, ¡°Finish what you started¡­. Please, please don¡¯t leave me like this.¡±


    ¡°Baby girl, we¡¯re already here. I can¡¯t continue.¡± He said again, his words like a tease. He leaned close to my ear, kissing the base of my neck softly, while I almost died and went to heaven.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do this, Robert¡­¡± I begged, a frustrated tear escaping my desireced eyes as my impending orgasm began receding , and I just couldn¡¯t take that.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, baby girl.¡±


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡± I called out, looking intently into his eyes, ¡°I don¡¯t care that the car¡¯s stopped moving. I want toe.  Please, make mee.¡±


    A groan escaped his lips at my words, and I felt ted seeing as I was getting to him. But then he said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Renee. No matter what you do or say, I¡¯m not going back on my decision.¡±


    My hands went to my clit as I eased backward on the plush leather vehicle seats. I let my head fall back as I brought my fingers to where I ached the most.


    I¡¯d touch and pleasure myself if Robert was refusing to do so.


    Before I could drag my dress up though, I heard his voicemand gruffly, ¡°Don¡¯t! Don¡¯t try me, Renee!¡±


    His words sent shivers through me.


    I looked at him with wide, imploring eyes and that¡¯s  when I saw the annoyed expression on his face.


    My hands left my dress, and lifting my lower half slowly from the car seat I said softly, ¡°Please, Daddy? Please, I¡¯m begging you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll beg tonight, baby girl, but not now.¡± Robert answered my question, ¡°We have a yacht to cruise!¡±


    ¡°A what? I¡­¡±


    He didn¡¯t let me finish as he stretched his hands out, dragging me with him as the limousine door slid open.


    I reluctantly stepped out of the vehicle, and I was beyond shocked that Robert had refused to take advantage of the situation he¡¯d been given. I wanted sex badly, and it upset me.


    My orgasm-deprived legs shook badly, but Robert didn¡¯t care as he guided me out of the limo and into the cold air.


    I was angry and frustrated, but at the same time, anticipation filled me as I imagined how he would remedy this situation. That was the only constion, and I knew that he would definitely make up for this.


    Of course, he would! My Daddy would.

 The Yacht Cruise

    ROBERT


    I peeled the leather jacket off my body and gently draped it on Renee¡¯s shivering shoulders as we strolled to the stretching marina.


    ¡°Thank you so much.¡± She muttered, and I hummed in response.


    ¡°So many boats¡­.¡± She began.


    From my line of vision, I could see her eyes glinting as she asked once more, ¡°Are we having our date at an exquisite restaurant on a yacht?¡± She queried ncing at me, and I just chuckled.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t want to spoil the surprise, baby girl. Just be quiet and follow me.¡± I mumbled.


    ¡°What if I don¡¯t keep quiet? I have a lot of questions, you know?¡±


    ¡°You might as well fuck yourself tonight since you don¡¯t want to shut up. I know your legs are still quivering from my touch, and if you want me to remedy that, then you have to do as I say, darling.¡±


    She shot me a pained nce, but before she could say anything, I pulled her up to the dock, where my sizeable Ivorian-style yachty.


    The wind was billowing intensely now and I  cuddled Renee tightly, rubbing her arms softly so she didn¡¯t feel the cold. Then I began to lead her to the boat.


    ¡°Where are we going too, Robert?¡± She asked, looking at me with a confused expression on her face.


    ¡°How often do I need to say we have a yacht to cruise?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that we¡¯re-¡±


    ¡°Whatever you think it is, Renee, that¡¯s what it is.¡± I cut her off before she could speak further and stopped us on the empty dock. Then slowly, I leaned down and dropped a chaste kiss on her plump upturned lips.


    ¡°Mr. rke.¡± A voice cut through, and I looked up to see my yacht manager and purser walking toward me. The elderly man still bounced on his feet rapidly, his legs strong and I smiled slowly.


    ¡°Mr. George.¡± I called out, a grin on my face as we shook hands.


    ¡°Mr. rke! Wee. I was a bit surprised when I received your request, but everything is ready, and you¡¯re good to go.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much.¡± I said genuinely. Turning to Renee, I introduced them.


    ¡°Renee, this is Mr. George. Mr. George, my girlfriend, Renee.¡±


    Renee instinctively shivered when I mentioned the word ¡®girlfriend.¡¯ She gave me a questioning look before facing Mr. George and shaking his hand as they exchanged pleasantries.


    ¡°Call me Renee, please.¡± She told him when he tried to call her Miss.


    ¡°How¡¯s the yacht shaping up?¡± I interjected quickly, briefly disrupting their conversation.


    ¡°She¡¯s shaping up fine and ready to rock and roll. Everything you need is there, and all your orders have been carried out.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much.¡± I said appreciatively again, and ncing at Renee, I asked, ¡°Let¡¯s be underway, shall we?¡±All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°Are we riding on this boat tonight?¡± She asked, her eyes lighting up in curiosity as she  gripped the jacket around her tightly.


    I shot her a wicked grin in reply to her question, and  she gasped, getting the answer to her question.


    ¡°A quick tour, right?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yes, please.¡± She said so softly I didn¡¯t hear her at first.


    Taking a few steps away from the dock, we finally stepped onto the slow-swinging yacht, and I led her onto the boat.


    ¡°What¡¯s the name?¡± She asked.


    ¡°The name?¡±


    ¡°Yes, the boat¡¯s name. Or don¡¯t you know it? Who owns the boat? Did you ask a friend for a favor? You made a reservation, right¡±


    She referenced my conversation earlier, and I couldn¡¯t help butugh at what she said.


    Made a reservation? Called a friend to rent the boat? Oh, she had no idea. I gently stroked her hair, sying out my hands widely and then I informed her of the situation quite bluntly.


    ¡°I own this boat, Renee.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± She gasped, looking at me with disbelief and I sighed.


    I remembered that she had no idea who I was or the kind of power I wielded over this particr city or country rather.


    ¡°I own this boat, Renee.¡± I emphasized again. ¡°It was built by mypany, and you asked about a name, and I realized I haven¡¯t given it one.¡±


    ¡°Your boat, built by yourpany?¡± She asked, finishing with a whisper. ¡°Just who are you, Mr rke?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to know, baby girl.¡± I responded to her light slur, and she covered her mouth in embarrassment, seeming to know I¡¯d heard herst words.


    ¡°I¡­ You¡­¡±


    ¡°I could name the boat Renee. What do you think?¡± I asked, dragging her into the intricately furnished cabin.


    ¡°You can¡¯t possibly mean that.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, I do mean it. This is the first time I¡¯m personally taking this yacht on a spin since I built it. You¡¯re the first girl I¡¯m bringing here and my firstpanion.¡±


    ¡°First girl? Hmmm, you sure must have lots of fleets, then. You¡¯ve probably taken many women on boat rides. Must be nice.¡±


    I chuckled, noting the jealousy in her voice, but I didn¡¯t satisfy her underlying curiosity. Instead, I diverted the topic.


    ¡°This is the cabin and the main saloon¡­.¡± I began, exining the yacht¡¯s interior, dragging her further inside.


    After some minutes, I came to a standstill in front of a mini corridor lined with simrrge doors, and I smirked instantly.


    ¡°What do you think this ce is?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. It kind of looks like a hotel hallway and¡­.¡± Sheughed softly, but as she finished her statement and paused, I felt her tremble slightly in my hold.


    The grin on my face widened.


    Taking a step forward, I pushed one of the doors open, and she muttered, ¡°Oh, the bedroom. Bedrooms¡­ The doors all lead to separate rooms right?¡±


    She was trying her best not to sound affected, but I could hear the hitch in her voice as her eyes roamed the lush bedroom, her narrowed gaze stopping on the king-sized bed in the middle.


    The lights were lit up and the sheets on the bed were dark linens draped across each other.


    I could imagine the illicit scenes going on in her head, and that prompted my next move.


    I gently removed my jacket from her body and teased, ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯re a tad bit warm now, so I¡¯ll just take my coat back.¡±


    I tilted my face forward, leaning slowly. I kissed the base of her naked throat while a whimper escaped her lips.


    My hands went to her hair instinctively. I tangled her strawberry-blonde hair softly and whispered in her ears, ¡°Maybe we should christen this bed before leaving. What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± She moaned, quivering under her heels as I dropped soft kisses along her neck.


    ¡°Rob¡­ Someone might see and¡­¡±


    I straightened, dragging my lips away from her scented luxurious, intoxicating flesh.


    ¡°Might see us doing what?¡± I mocked, ¡°For your information, we¡¯re all alone here, safe for Mr. George and the chef serving us dinner tonight. He¡¯ll be leaving once he¡¯s done, though.¡± I finished and then dragged her by the wrists, leading her away.


    ¡°Where are we going to again?¡± She asked, and smiling, I said, ¡°To have some dinner.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah. And after dinner¡­.¡± I paused, clearing my throat as we walked around the back of the unmoving yacht, ¡°I might eat you, and then when I¡¯m done, we¡¯ll depart.¡±


    I spared her a nce, and the yellow lights shining through did me a favor showing her red flushed skin.


    ¡°Oh, Rob¡­ You¡¯re a mystery.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sweetheart, I am.¡± I agreed, dragging her to where a romantic dinner table for two was set.


    Yet another surprise for my beautiful, gorgeous girl.

 Time For Dessert

    RENEE


    ¡°Thank you so much.¡± I said to the chef appreciatively as he cleared the dishes off the table.


    Beaming at me, he replied, ¡°You¡¯re most wee. I¡¯m sure you enjoyed your meal?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I did.¡± I chimed quickly, a blush rising on my cheeks as I nced at Robert, who was sitting opposite me, his eyes glinting wickedly.


    He¡¯d finger fucked me earlier while we were eating, finally giving me an orgasm after depriving me for so long.


    I was still heady from his fingers in me. With the wine I¡¯d drunk still swirling in my head, I was a bit fuzzy too.


    The dinner we had was wonderful. The three-course meal consisted of Italian and Mexican-infused cuisines, and rich fruitsbined all tasted like something out of heaven. It was good, if not the best I¡¯d ever had, thanks to the chef and my sweet Daddy.


    I beamed to myself as I looked around the romantic table he¡¯d set up, the excellent music ying in the background and the soft sounds of thepping ocean beneath us.


    The breeze blew fragrantly, picking up the scents of roses scattered about. The cool air was so hearty and refreshing too, that I wished I could stay here all day.


    This date was the best I¡¯d ever had. I couldn¡¯tpare it to any Dn had ever taken me to, as our time together mostly consisted of having sex and other selfish interests he initiated.


    Now that I think back, I did lower my standards for that motherfucker and a sh of anger crossed my face, my lips curving into a sneer.


    I downgraded myself for a fool just because I wanted to be loved. But never again. Never ever again!


    ¡°Is anything the matter, baby girl?¡±


    Robert¡¯s voice sneaked into my thoughts, and I felt his lips on my knuckles as he took my hands and kissed them softly.


    Shaking my head and discarding my thoughts, I lied through my teeth. ¡°Nothing of any importance. I¡¯m fine.¡±All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± He asked again.


    His brows furrowed,  I could see the worry lines on his face and it tugged at my heart.


    I kept telling myself that whatever was between this mysterious man and me was a fling and a brief vacation sexcapade. But when he looked at me¡­ When he called me his girlfriend¡­ When he took me on rich romantic dates like this¡­ I allowed myself to think otherwise.


    What if we were meant to be? Also did he stalk me because he had long-term ns for me?


    I allowed myself to consider it, and a small smile came to my lips, wiping my scowl away.


    ¡®Damn girl, what is wrong with you? You barely know anything about this man, you¡¯re having thoughts like this? Get a grip, girl. Don¡¯t forget that you¡¯re recovering from a fresh heartbreak and have no idea who this stranger is. He isn¡¯t divulging anything about himself, and you¡¯re¡­.¡¯


    My subconscious was at it again, but I wasn¡¯t going to listen to the voice inside me.


    ¡°Oh please, can¡¯t a girl bask in something amazing for once!¡± I said out loud in reply to my inner voice.


    I felt Robert squeeze my hand gently, and I realized he must have heard what I said.


    ¡°Were you talking to me?¡± He asked.


    Embarrassed, I replied quickly, ¡°Sorry about that. I just zoned out.¡±


    ¡°Okay then.¡± He mumbled, bringing my hand to his lips and dropping a kiss on my knuckles.


    He looked so handsome as he sat opposite me, his eyes staring intently at mine. Even though the chef was nearby clearing our dishes, he didn¡¯t seem to care, still kissing my hands.


    His gaze was so heated that I wanted to orgasm again, and if looks could melt, then I would have been a puddle of goo.


    He entrapped me, his deep blue eyes more piercing as the moment grew tenser.


    Just when it seemed like he¡¯d give in to his desires, his lips on my knuckles began trailing down the length of my warm arm. I cleared my throat, breaking the silence as I asked softly, ¡°Robert, I¡¯ve been meaning to ask you something.¡±


    ¡°What is that, princess?¡± He asked, his legs teasing mine from under the table as he kept dropping kisses on my hand.


    Princess¡­ The way he said that word, and the rest of the endearments he used for me, made me want to melt in his arms.


    I clenched my still-wet thighs, my panties stretching, and  I tried to focus.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t told me much about yourself.¡±


    ¡°As you haven¡¯t either.¡±


    ¡°What? You know my name.¡± I said, my brows raised.


    He chuckled, replying sarcastically, ¡°As you know mine?¡±


    ¡°Oh, stop this¡­.¡± I groaned frustratingly, and heughed huskily.


    ¡°I¡¯m just telling the truth. What is it you want to know, baby girl? I might have to answer anything you ask when I¡¯m eating you out. I¡¯ve been saying this, but I haven¡¯t had a suitable time to do it.¡±


    I reddened embarrassingly, giving him a serious look at the same time.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious, though. I know this is just a¡­.¡± I paused, stopping myself from saying what I¡¯d intended, and quickly diverting, I continued, ¡°I want to know some basic details about you. I don¡¯t know your¡­.¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, Sir¡­ I¡¯m so d you liked the dishes.¡± The chef suddenly reappeared at our table, interrupting my speech, much to my frustration. ¡°It¡¯s time for your dessert and¡­¡±


    Robert instantly cut in as he said, ¡°I¡¯ll be serving her dessert. Don¡¯t bother too much about that.¡±


    A hot wave of pleasure shot through me, and a gasp escaped my lips as I looked at him, obviously knowing what he was talking about.


    If the chef had any idea, he said nothing, and with a bow, he proceeded to leave, but Robert stopped him.


    I watched as he dipped his hands in the back of his pocket and graciously tipped the chef a massive wad of bills.


    My eyes bulged in surprise. Damn, he was rich!


    I was beginning to understand this about him, which was one reason why I wanted to know more details.


    I wasn¡¯t a gold digger. I just wanted to satisfy my curiosity. Besides, I was scared of searching online and seeing stuff I wouldn¡¯t want to know.


    I¡¯d already established that he was very wealthy, and he was much older than me, maybe in histe thirties, but then I still wanted to know more.


    As the chef wandered away into the yacht¡¯s cabin, I faced Robert, ready to continue my questioning. But he was already standing up from his chair, a wicked expression on his face.


    ¡°Time for dessert, baby girl?¡± He asked with a wink.


    I started to argue, but he pulled me up and dropped his lips on mine, kissing the shit out of me.


    At the same time, he ground against me and I could feel the bulge in his jeans-I could feel just  how hard and erect he was.


    I wanted to kneel right there and suck him off. Take his huge dick, ce the cap at the tip of my red lips, and be a slutty good girl for him, easing his¡­ Shit! I forget we weren¡¯t alone and¡­


    ¡°We aren¡¯t departing, are we? It¡¯ste already.¡±


    ¡°Did you tell your friend you¡¯d being home tonight?¡± He asked, his voice hoarse as he whispered in my ears, his lips nibbling at my neck, making me shiver.


    ¡°I¡­ I¡­¡± I stuttered, quivering under his touch. His fingers were trailing the bud of my nipples through my thin satin dress, and it felt like pure torture.


    ¡°Answer me, baby girl.¡±


    I muttered in response, ¡°I¡­ I¡­ I didn¡¯t give her any straight answer when she asked. I told her to either expect me back at the motel or not.¡±


    ¡°Motel?¡± He asked, and I nodded, gripping his shoulders tight as he continued to toy with my nipples.


    For a second, he said nothing. Catching me off guard, he raised me up, guiding my legs around his waist as he began to move into the body of the yacht.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we going to sail anymore?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ste, just like you said, so we¡¯ll sail tomorrow. Tonight, Mr. George would take care of the yacht while I fuck the shit out of you. It¡¯s time for dessert, baby girl. We can cruiseter.¡±


    ¡°You had a change of mind?¡± I queried with a raised brow.


    ¡°You can say that. With your plump lips staring at me from the table and the smell of your pussy on my fingers, I couldn¡¯t think straight. This is a much better decision if you ask me.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Daddy, it is.¡± I giggled, and he pped my ass cheek as we walked inside.

 A Man On A Mission

    RENEE


    I had the goofiest grin on my face, my arms wide, enjoying the cool ocean breeze as Robert¡¯s yacht zipped through the ocean.


    Water asionally sshed on my naked feet, but I was content and notining. I was just so happy and satisfied to be with him this morning after our blissful night.


    A blush crept up my cheeks, and I mentally pped myself as I remembered the sordid details of what happenedst night.


    After dinner, Robert had taken me to bed, intent on offering me dessert just like he¡¯d promised, and honestly, he didn¡¯t disappoint.


    After eating me out for hours and making mee on end every single time he touched my needy, sensitive clit, he then tied my hands to therge bed, which had a hook I had never noticed.


    Proceeding to fuck me hard and fast till I cried out in pleasure, we then rode our orgasms together and after that, he¡¯d passed out thoroughly exerted.


    I frowned as I recalled that I was yet to ask this mysterious man more questions about himself. And, I¡¯d resolved to do it this morning, only to wake up to an empty bed and sore-sated thighs.


    The bed felt so lonely without him by my side, but his strong, masculine scent lingered in the air while Iy there. That was when I noticed he was probably somewhere close.


    I didn¡¯t have to think too long, or look for him, because I soon felt him whispering some good morning pleasantries in my ear, kissing my bare shoulder tenderly before trailing soft pecks along my jawline.


    Seeing himing closer to nibble at my earlobe made my breath hitch in anticipation, with heat pooling in my belly, and my cheeks flushed red. His eyes met mine, and a slow smirk curved across his chiseled face.


    The flush on my cheeks spread even further along my body, as he continued to dazzle me still with his burning gaze.


    ¡°You¡¯re too irresistible.¡± He¡¯d breathed against my neck, and with my lips parting ever so slightly, I replied with amusement, telling him I was grateful he thought so.


    My voice had been barely audible over the wavespping against the boat, and his softughter, as he kept kissing my face, asking how my night went.


    ¡°I¡¯m so d you enjoyed the night. Now, if you¡¯ll excuse me¡­.¡± He had trailed off and with those parting words, he slipped away from the edge of the bed, leaving me alone and all to myself.


    Seconds, then minutes passed. Still, Robert was nowhere to be found, and just before I cleaned up in the small bathroom, breakfast was brought to me by some random person whom I had no idea of.


    Taking my shower, I put on an oversized T-shirt I saw on the bed and then ate breakfast alone.


    When I was done, I then left the room and began to look for Robert, finally spotting him at the cabin alone, his hands on the boat¡¯s steering or helm rather as he maneuvered therge yacht about.


    I should have known he¡¯d know how to ride a boat, just as efficiently like he¡¯d driven me crazyst night. Yes! I was quick to remember our adventures in the yacht bedst night and shaking my head defiantly, I brought my thoughts back to the present.


    It waste morning, and the sun, which shone brightly on my skin, didn¡¯t stop me from padding close to where Robert was standing.


    His gaze focused intently on the sea, he obviously didn¡¯t notice my presence as I tiptoed closer and so I used the opportunity to drool over this handsome man who was quickly making my short vacation feel like heaven.


    His broad back was to me, and I noticed he was half naked with dark pants sitting low on his waist. His legs were so muscr and strong and I suddenly felt the urge to distract him.


    While he was trying to control the waves, I could get on my knees, bring his dick out from his pants and suck him hard and fast.


    Maybe I could also¡­


    ¡°Baby girl¡­¡± He called out, and I froze in my step, only already inches away from him.


    ¡°Daddy?¡± I answered curtly, moving forward until I reached him.


    Before I could wrap my hands around his back though, he quickly maneuvered, leaving the boat¡¯s helm, and turned to face me.


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± I gasped in surprise, but he¡¯d already ced his lips on mine, kissing me senselessly.


    For a moment, I forgot we were on a yacht, a vast ocean underneath us, and he was no longer steering.


    ¡°Rob¡­ someone could see us, and you¡¯re supposed to be driving the yacht.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re all alone, baby girl. As for me leaving the helm to kiss you, I don¡¯t regret it. You called me Daddy so you asked for it. You drive me crazy when you say that¡­.¡±


    ¡°But someone served me breakfast earlier, and the boat¡­.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re all alone, sweetheart¡­.¡± He whispered, nibbling at my earlobe. ¡°I couldn¡¯t spend much time with you in bed earlier this morning because I was trying to finalize our mini trip. I¡¯ve sent Mr. George off, and the chef and his assistant who served you breakfast this morning have all gone. It¡¯s just you and me now.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± I questioned, surprised.


    He nodded, saying again, ¡°Also, I called your friend, telling her not to expect you anytime soon.¡±


    ¡°Wait, what?¡± I gasped in shock, trying to disentangle myself from his strong embrace, but he wasn¡¯t letting go.


    How did he get Nicole¡¯s number? How many days did he n on taking me on this strange trip? Also, where were we even going? I had no idea, and I began to feel a cold stirring in my stomach.


    He noticed the confusion on my face because he answered all the questions in my head by saying, ¡°We¡¯ll be arriving back tond in the evening at most or tomorrow morning. You don¡¯t have to worry about anything, Renee.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°You look lovely.¡± He said, diverting the conversation and as he stared at me intensely,  my legs clenched.


    ¡°My shirt looks better on you. I could stare at you all day, baby girl.¡± He continuedplimenting me while I blushed profusely, my eyes lowered since I couldn¡¯t hold his piercing gaze.


    He scooped my hair to one side, then leaning forward as he kissed the side of my neck, he murmured, ¡°You¡¯d look better if you took it off, though. What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Rob¡­ Robert¡­¡± I quivered, my legs shaking, and gripping his arms for support, I nced at the boat¡¯s helm. ¡°You¡¯re not steering the yacht. Isn¡¯t something going to happen and¡­¡±


    ¡°Everything is under control, baby girl, don¡¯t worry.¡± He said hoarsely, his hands going to his shirt on my body, and he began to take it off.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Robert¡­ I¡­ I don¡¯t have anything underneath. I don¡¯t even have a swimsuit.¡±


    If he heard what I¡¯d said, he gave no response. Instead, he questioned with a raised bow, ¡°You¡¯re burning up. The sun is scorching. Did you put on some sunscreen?¡±


    ¡°No¡­ I didn¡¯t and¡­¡± Without letting me finish, he dropped his hands to my wrists, and grabbing me, he began to take me to Lord knows where despite my protests that he¡¯d abandoned the boat.


    ¡°I just want to rub some sunscreen on you, baby girl. Chill¡­¡± He kept saying as he dragged me along, but I knew better.


    He didn¡¯t look like someone intent on creaming me. Instead, he looked like he wanted to give me a cream-pie and I blushed shamelessly at the thought.


    Robert looked like he was on a mission and I knew what would happen.


    Fuck it, but my whole body was already quivering in anticipation.


    Lord help me!

 Blowjobs On A Yacht

    ROBERT


    ¡°Hmmm¡­¡± Renee moaned again as I deftly rubbed sunscreen on her naked back.


    She was leaning across my knees while I sat on a couch in the yacht¡¯s cabin, enjoying the sensual way I rubbed the protective lotion into her skin.


    At intervals, she¡¯d let out throaty moans that¡¯d make blood shoot to my groin, and in retaliation, I would spread my hands and spank her fleshy butt.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­ Your hands are so heavenly.¡± She groaned again, and I hummed, my dick shooting up as I tried to control myself, but it was increasingly proving difficult.


    I leaned over slowly with my mouth close to her ear and whispered gently, ¡°Do you want me to put lotion on your other parts?¡±


    I could feel my dick hardening again at the thought of sliding my hands between her butt cheeks and creaming her pussy.


    At first, she said nothing in response to my question, her breath hitching. and while I waited, I continued to massage her back and waist, holding my desire back.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± I groaned, pouring more cream into my hands. ¡°I¡¯m waiting.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Daddy!¡± She responded softly, but I didn¡¯t miss the excitement in her voice, and not even thinking about how that sounded like a euphemism, I smiled down at her.


    Reaching down to my bag of supplies, I grabbed another body oil and squeezed a huge dollop into my hands.


    I then rubbed my palms together and then glided my hands lightly over her skin, my erection throbbing painfully beneath me.


    She let out another loud moan as I caressed her back, my hands sliding towards her nipples underneath and tweaking gently while she hissed in pleasure.


    Working carefully around her nipples, which were already engorged, I finally brought my hands back to her waist. I worked my way down to her legs, and purposely skipping her ass, I started to rub her sexy thighs.


    Her legs looked so fucking sexy. All supple and toned, and I closed my eyes briefly, a harsh groan escaping my lips as I imagined a hot foot fetish.


    My dick was painstakingly erect, and it was taking all the restraint inside me not to order Renee down on her knees so she could suck my cock. But then, I had to take things slow.


    I only wanted to rub sunscreen on her body to shield her from this hot sun, just like I¡¯d promised.


    I kept telling myself that, however since she¡¯d stripped naked, only leaving on her thincy panties, I¡¯d been trying to control my raging hormones.


    Slowly, I trailed my fingers from her legs to her thighs, while she shivered, and I stopped just at the base of her ass.


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡± She murmured slowly, grinding her breasts on my thighs, and I growled, her wiggling body affecting me in ways I couldn¡¯t describe.


    ¡°Baby girl, you¡¯ll be the death of me.¡± I muttered, staring straight up at the sun.


    When I looked down at her oily body, my groin squeezed painfully, and in suppressed lustful anger, I raised my palm andnded a harsh smack on her ass.


    ¡°Arghhhh, Daddy!¡± She yelped, and my cock twitched when I saw the shining red palm imprint on her ass cheek.


    Fuck! If I didn¡¯te now, I¡¯d lose my senses.


    I didn¡¯t care that we were in the middle of the ocean and under the hot sun battling our lusts. All I could think of was blowing my load in Renee¡¯s plump red lips. I needed her to give me the blowjob of my life. Now!


    Without further dy, I grabbed Renee¡¯s arms and hoisted her onto her feet, dragging her closer and forcing her onto her knees.


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡± She stuttered breathlessly, her eyes shooting up as she locked gazes with mine, entrapping my soul.


    ¡°Fuck baby girl,e here.¡± I mumbled, dragging my gaze down to my oil-smudged trousers.


    Without saying a word, I began to unbuckle it, but just before I finished, I felt Renee¡¯s hands on mine, halting me.


    ¡°Let me do this.¡± She clucked, batting her eyshes at me and giving me a pout with her red lips. The pleading look she gave me almost made mee right then and there on that puppy-looking face.


    Damn!


    ¡°I need to fuck your mouth real bad, Renee. I can¡¯t keep creaming you and¡­¡±


    ¡°I know, Daddy, I know¡­.¡± She replied, quickly undressing me from waist down until I was almost butt naked in front of her.


    The bulge of my erection was visible from my boxer briefs, and she didn¡¯t even waste anymore time, as she quickly dug her hands into my waistband. Before I made a sound, she had her palms sped around my huge dick, and my breath hitched when she touched me.


    ¡°You are so huge.¡± She said in awe and I heard the astonishment in her voice as she began stroking my throbbing length.


    I growled, my voice animalistic. I couldn¡¯t control myself anymore.


    She kept stroking faster and faster, looking at me at the same time her fingers yed with my balls and I almost died and went to heaven!


    ¡°Renee!¡± I warned, grabbing her hair between my thumb and forefinger and tugging until her head was in front of my crotch.


    Her mouth was just inches away from the tip of my cock. And fuck if it wasn¡¯t like an orgasm just thinking about fucking those gorgeous pink lips of hers, while she moaned my name over and over again, in between gags and gurgles.


    ¡°Open those sexy lips for me,  baby girl.¡± I grufflymanded.


    When she did as I¡¯d ordered, I thrust my dick  into her mouth without wasting any more time.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Her hot pink tongue slid around my length, and I hissed at the feeling of having the tightness of her mouth wrapped around me.


    My fingers reached deftly into her hair once more, the strawberry blonde curls syed about, and tightening my hand around the back of her head, I gripped tightly.


    Leaning up from the couch, I shoved myself deeper into her throat and with breath hitching at my movements, I took control for a while, going deep and deeper.


    My hands released their grip on her hair to squeeze her cheeks briefly, and after that I grabbed harshly on her hair once more, urging her to work harder.


    Her mouth sucked hungrily on me, and she moaned as she orally pleasured me. Every movement made my cock throb, and every thrust felt like being filled with something sharp, but not painful.


    God! I needed toe so badly.


    It took everything in me not to orgasm as she continued sucking me down, my animalistic growls of pleasure filling the air simultaneously.


    When I felt myselfing to the edge at longst, Renee suddenly  dropped my dick from her lips as she raised her face to look at me.


    ¡°What the¡­¡± I began to ask, pausing only when I noticed her mischievous smirk and the smear of saliva and pre-cum all over her lips.


    Damn! She was a fucking sight to behold. Just like a sex doll. My sex doll.


    She said nothing, her smirk turning into a smile, and before I knew what was happening, she bent her head again, taking my cock all in her mouth.


    With her mouth stilltched tight onto my penis, I felt her fingers going under as she came into contact with my balls and squeezed lightly.


    I felt myselfing. Her mouth opened wide as she increased momentum. She went at such speed I was dumbfounded. This woman knew how to make me feel so good, the best I¡¯d ever felt.


    No woman came close at all!


    I thrust deeper, feeling my impending orgasm as she massaged my balls, and then¡­ The world blurred around me.


    I heard her mewl softly, her gasps and moans lighting a spark in my head, and then like that¡­ I came like a rocket, spilling deep inside Renee¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Oh, baby girl¡­.¡± I growled, still spurting my seed deep inside her while she took it all, unmoving and epting all I had to give.


    ¡°Oh, Renee.¡± I groaned again.


    My still cock fell from her lips slowly, and it stood free and proud like I hadn¡¯t just spilled my load in my little slut¡¯s mouth.


    As for Renee, she had a wide satisfied smile on her face.


    Leaning closer, since she still had my dick in her hands, she lowered her tongue to the tip and licked me clean.


    I watched her throat move as she swallowed, and my cock throbbed harder as more fluid leaked.


    Fuck! I shut my eyes as she cleaned me good and slowly that when I finally opened my eyes,ing into focus, my vision felt clearer and brighter.


    ¡°Did I behave like a good little girl, Daddy?¡± Renee asked softly, breaking me from my trance as I heaved softly and I  could only nod.


    My hands going to her face, I brushed some of her her hair away from her forehead and after a few minutes of heated silence, I got up, my dick still swinging while she watched.


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡±


    I didn¡¯t care that I was bare naked, with my muscr body on full disy. Instead, I stretched my hands toward a still kneeling Renee.


    ¡°Come with me, Renee.¡±


    ¡°For?¡± She asked with a quirked brow and from the corner of my eyes, I watched her insert a finger inside her panties.


    A chuckle bubbled from underneath my throat, knowing she was probably wet and craving my touch despite saying nothing.


    ¡°Come with me, baby girl. You¡¯ve been a good slut, and it¡¯s time for your reward.¡±

 The Reward

    RENEE


    My insides tingled as Robert dragged me to the heated pool on the yacht and I wondered why he would bring me here. I¡¯d expected him to take me to the take me straight to the bedroom, but well¡­


    He knew I was wet. It wasn¡¯t a secret and as we walked through the cabin, my feet were slippery, and my thighs trembled.


    It was taking all I had not to slide my fingers into my panties and relieve myself, but I couldn¡¯t because Robert had warned me not to touch myself again.


    He wanted to reward me, and I was wild with anticipation already.


    Clicking my tongue together, his taste still lingered in my mouth and recalling  how I¡¯d had thisrge brute wriggling and begging for my touch earlier, my ego swelled up.


    I¡¯d given him the best blow job I¡¯d ever given any man.


    Well, I¡¯d only been with Dn all my life, but then Robert was an even better upgrade, and our illicit affair still surprised me.


    Who¡¯d have thought a man I met at the beach would have my legs on his shoulders while he plowed me deep with his dick for two consecutive nights?


    Who would have thought I¡¯d be having my brains fucked out on a yacht while on a short vacation after a breakup?


    No one would have thought it at all¡­ Not Nicole, not even me.


    ¡°We¡¯re here!¡± He announced, cutting off my reverie and I stared at therge heated pool in the middle of the cabin.


    ¡°Wow!¡± I eximed in amazement. ¡°How did I not see thisst night? When you took me on that tour and¡­.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that. Take off your panties.¡± Robert interrupted, cutting me off with a growl and his voice sent shivers over my skin.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°Be a good girl now, Renee. Don¡¯t waste any more of our time. Come here.¡± He dragged me before I said a word, and as we got to the edge of the pool, he dropped my hands, and not minding that he was butt naked, he dipped his feet in the pool, walking in through the stairs.


    The pool wasn¡¯t that deep, so when he got in, he stood still, turning around to face me.


    ¡°Take off your wet panties, Renee. I don¡¯t want to repeat myself twice.¡± He ordered gruffly.


    One part of me wanted to disobey him and get punished for it. Still, then another part of me obeyed him quickly.


    I was a quivering mess, wet to the core and dripping, so if I prolonged this, I¡¯d definitely suffer.


    ¡°Good girl.¡± Robert mumbled, stretching his hands toward me as he collected my panties and  bringing thece material to his nose, he sniffed without shame.


    ¡°You smell so fucking good and so mine! Damnnnn¡­¡± He growled animalistically and I closed my eyes, blushing uncontrobly, while my whole body prickled.


    He was still in the pool, and taking a step forward, he stretched his hands to me, tugging me to him.


    ¡°Let me help you.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t even wait for me to say anything.¡± I gasped, falling into the pool with him, his hands snaking around my waist to keep me steady.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need permission to do what I want with you, baby girl¡­.¡± He muttered, his eyes twinkling.


    ¡°What¡­¡± I began to say, but my words died down when I felt Robert¡¯s fingers caressing the hair at the base of my neck.


    ¡°Baby girl¡­ It¡¯s time to reward you, right?¡± He asked softly, his fingers still stroking my naked oily skin as he lowered me into the warm water and a moan escaped my lips.


    In seconds, he had me by the edge of the pool. He positioned me in the middle, leaned closer, and took my lips in his, kissing me wildly and passionately.


    ¡°Hmmmm¡­¡± He groaned, his hands roaming over my body.


    From my hair to my neck, gripping my throat as we kissed, his hands wandered to my breasts, flickering my already hard nipples.


    He rubbed my breasts slowly, breaking our locked lips, and ducking his head, he ced his lips again within my boobs.


    I moaned at every kiss on my breasts, my head falling back, hands on his hair as he sucked on my nipples like a hungry beast.


    ¡°Yes, Daddy¡­¡± I moaned,mon sense leaving and before  I knew it, his fingers grazed my thighs- my clit, and I bucked instantly.


    What the? How had he gotten there?


    He was sucking my breasts, and at the same time, he was pushing his fingers inside my tight wet hole, making me scream.


    ¡°Oh damn! Daddy¡­ Fuck, please. Yes¡­ Please.¡± I begged him, bucking my hips against his fingers desperately, the water beneathpping wildly while my legs shook.


    My entire being felt alive as Robert stroked me faster, his fingers pressing deeper and deeper inside me, making me feel full from inside and out.


    His lips were no longer on my breasts. Instead they trailed down my throat, neck, and every other part of my body as he thrust his fingers deeper and deeper inside me. His pace quickened until I couldn¡¯t take any more of his teasing. I could feel my orgasming, and grabbing onto his shoulders tightly, I screamed his name, willing him to go faster.


    I dragged my head back up, opened my eyes, and staring into his deep blue orbs as he watched my sex-stricken face, I pleaded, ¡°Fuck me, Daddy, make mee!¡±


    My cheeks were flushed from embarrassment and from being under the warm jets of water,  but still, I wanted him more than ever.


    ¡°Say, please.¡± He whispered hoarsely as he pressed forward once more with his fingers, hitting my spot perfectly every time.


    ¡°Please, Daddy.¡± My words were breathless with lust, and my eyes locked with his again.


    ¡°Come for me, baby girl. Do it for daddy, do it for me!¡± He muttered between my moans, and the next thing I knew, my pussy squeezed his fingers as he inserted yet another.


    ¡°Oh, oh  fuck yes!¡± I gasped, closing my eyes again and tightening my grip on Robert¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s it! Come, baby girl.¡± He growled in my ear, kissing my cheeks, and then, like lightning, I felt my orgasming, and I exploded like a rocket.


    ¡°Daddyyy¡­¡± I yelled, my thighs shaking furiously, and I kept iling my legs in the water unabashed as I rode the wave.


    ¡°Oh, yes¡­¡± I moaned, slowlying down from my high, feeling sated and sore.


    My face fell to his chest. My hair was a total mess, and my body was covered in sweat dripping into the pool beneath.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    I clung onto Robert, and his chest heaved slightly, too as we both caught our breaths.


    I felt him slowly pull out his fingers from my pussy, and I squirmed. I had no idea a small white towel was sitting nearby, but he grabbed it and wiped his fingers neatly.


    ¡°Do you want to know what happens next?¡± Robert asked, murmuring in my ears.


    I shook my head no.


    ¡°Now I can have my way with you.¡± He said, smirking devilishly and winking at me as he stood.


    Picking me up, he brought me out of the pool in his arms and pped my ass cheek while I yelped.


    ¡°Where are we going?¡± I questioned curiously, wrapping my legs around his waist as he carried me, into the yacht.


    ¡°A private ce to make love before we have lunch in bed.¡± He answered.


    Make love¡­ The way he said those words had me swooning, and I stared deep into his blue eyes.


    Overwhelmed with renewed lust and passion, I took my lips in his for a kiss as he led me into the inner bedroom for another round of sex.


    This time, with his cock buried inside my pussy!

 Mystery Unraveled

    RENEE


    The day passed breezily fast and now I stood by the yacht rails, staring out into the ocean.


    My thighs still tingled from our sexcapades, but otherwise, I felt so good. Very sated and satisfied too.


    Sneaking a nce behind me, a sad smile flickered to my lips as I watched Robert control the ship¡¯s steering. Whipping my head back toward the sea, I wrapped my arms around myself as a cool breeze billowed, scattering my wavy blonde locks.


    ¡°You know, I wish we could stay here forever. I¡¯d just turn and see you right in front of me every time.¡± I stiffened the second I felt muscr arms wrap around me from behind, and I gasped as Robert whispered in my ear.


    ¡®Surely he didn¡¯t mean that right?¡¯ I questioned myself internally, goosebumps rising as I assimted everything he¡¯d just said.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I drawled, snuggling in his arms as I asked, ¡°Howe you¡¯re here now? You were steering the yacht just a second ago and¡­.¡±


    ¡°And now, I¡¯m here with you because I can¡¯t fucking keep my hands off you, Renee¡­.¡± He groaned and the way he called my name sent pleasure shooting down my thighs. To make things worse, he ced soft kisses on my bare throat, and I melted.


    ¡°What¡­ what about¡­ what about the boat? Isn¡¯t it going to¡­?¡± I stuttered.


    However, he cut in, saying, ¡°How many times do I have to assure you that everything is safe, baby girl? The yacht is fine, and nothing will happen, okay?¡±


    Nuzzling my hair, I was about to say something when he interrupted with a rather absurd speech.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it crazy how I¡¯ve known you only three days? After I first saw you that night, I couldn¡¯t keep my eyes off you, and now here we are. You¡¯re in my arms, and it feels like I¡¯ve known you all my life.¡±


    I froze, blinking my eyes twice and swallowing a massive lump of saliva that felt stuck in my throat.


    What the hell was he saying?


    ¡°Robert¡­ what are you saying?¡± I asked.


    He took a deep breath, still kissing my shoulders as he continued, ¡°I know it doesn¡¯t make sense, and this is just supposed to be a fling, right?¡±


    ¡°What are you saying?¡± I queried again, disentangling myself from his hold and turning around to face him.


    I stepped back, taking some space. ¡°Robert, this is still a fling. You know it¡¯s still a fling, and I know it is. I¡¯m on vacation. Once we get onnd and my time ends, I¡¯ll leave this city. These will all be memories. I¡­ I¡­¡± My chest tightened as I spoke, and I could see hurt sh in the depth of his blue orbs, but I was telling the truth.


    This was the in motherfucking truth, and he knew it!? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    More so was the stark knowledge that I had no idea who he freaking was, and vice versa.


    All through today, as we ate lunch and rested in each other¡¯s arms, I¡¯d try to ask him some personal questions, but he kept diverting me at every end.


    Like he was hiding something from me, and I hated how I felt riddled with curiosity.


    ¡°Renee, calm down!¡± He spat out, stretching his hands as he tried to drag me into his embrace. But I refused, tackling him before he could grasp me.


    ¡°We¡¯re just strangers fucking Robert. I¡¯ve enjoyed my time with you. Yes, I want to stay here forever, but that isn¡¯t how things work, is it? There are so many things we still don¡¯t know about each other and whenever I ask a question, you intentionally divert them.¡±


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± He called out again, taking a step toward me, but I took another step back.


    Feeling anger wash through me, I blurted out harshly, ¡°Fuck! I¡¯ve been trying to live in the moment, but I just can¡¯t. I don¡¯t even know how old you are, Robert rke. I don¡¯t know who you are!¡±


    Tightening the thin robe around my body, I stared straight at him, breathing heavily and gauging his reaction.


    He had a pained look, his eyes screaming fear. Something told me I would not like whatever he had to say, and even with the chills increasing, I still wanted to know more, darn it!


    ¡°You want to know how old I fucking am?¡± He asked softly, and I nodded.


    ¡°I¡¯m 43 years old, Renee.¡± He chimed in all too quickly, a mocking smirk on his face as he syed out his hands and repeated the bombshell he¡¯d just dropped. ¡°I¡¯m 43 years old, okay?¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± I mumbled, staggering as I stared at this mysterious man, refusing to believe I¡¯d fucked a man twice my age.


    What the? ¡°I don¡¯t understand. You¡¯re 43?¡± I asked, and he simply nodded. ¡°But you don¡¯t look it, Robert. You look 35 or¡­.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I look young, but I¡¯ve told you my truth, Renee. I¡¯m 43. Is there any other thing you¡¯d like to know?¡±


    ¡°I am¡­ I¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re shocked. I can see that. You don¡¯t need to tell me your age though cause I already know. I¡¯m twice your age, and I know that full well. I¡¯ve already done some background checks on you and¡­.¡±


    ¡°You did what?¡± I asked, staggering yet again in shock and he exhaled loudly.


    The yacht tumbled, the harsh breeze billowing through, intensifying the situation and I clutched at my thin robe as I tried to understand everything.


    ¡®I was sleeping with a man twice my age. Someone who could birth me without blinking twice and¡­? How would I tell Nicole this? How would she react when I told her I was fucking an older man? A sugar daddy?¡¯ I wondered, and at the thought, I burst into full-blown undilutedughter while Robert watched.


    Oh, I was going to go crazy. Mad crazy. And he¡¯d done some background checks on me? Wow, just wow.


    Just what did he know about me? He must know about my pitiful background and that I was a struggling graduate without a good job and no savings to her name. Maybe he knew about my heartbreak and had pounced on me knowing that.


    I mean, I was an easy target. I was nursing a heartbreak. What better opportunity for him? So much for thinking with my pussy and following a sex god to bed without any proper introduction.


    Serves me right!


    Suddenly I felt shamefaced. My cheeks reddened from embarrassment, but while I stared at Robert-at my seemingly hot Daddy, he didn¡¯t look like he was ashamed of me.


    ¡°Renee, are you okay?¡± He questioned and snorting, I asked rather crudely, ¡°Just what more are you hiding from me? I know you¡¯re rich, and you might have the world at your feet, but then¡­.¡±


    ¡°Renee!¡± He called out, chuckling at whatever funny thing I¡¯d said, but I didn¡¯t pay him any mind.


    Just a moment ago, I had a smile on my face, reminiscing about our memories together and enjoying the cool night air, but now¡­ I felt a bubbling anger and unprecedented fury within me.


    Crossing my elbows, I asked, ¡°What more do you know about me? Oblige me. I¡¯m listening. Tell me, what do you know about me? Also, that night you stalked me, was that the first day you saw me? Or this is some kind of joke, and not real and¡­ Just freaking talk to me!¡±

 Shattered Feelings

    ROBERT


    I stood watching, listening as Renee yelled andshed out at me despite my begging her to calm down.


    ¡°You still haven¡¯t told me all you know about me. You stalked me, right? You have the resources, so you did some background checks on me. So what do you know? Tell me, tell me! I¡¯m sure you know all about my pathetic life and¡­.¡±


    ¡°Renee, will you calm down. I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about, but I can assure you that I barely know anything about you. I only¡­¡±


    ¡°Liar! I knew you¡¯d say that. You kept your age from me on purpose, for chrissakes. You were scared I wouldn¡¯t sleep with you if you told me you were twice my age, right? That¡¯s why you upped your charm and made sure you had your way with me before telling me a thing. Then, while we were fucking like rabbits, I tried to ask you questions, but you diverted my questions over and over at every turn. Now you want me to believe you?¡±


    ¡°Renee!¡± I barked out, but she was still hysterical, her whole body shaking.


    ¡°I don¡¯t trust you anymore. I can¡¯t even trust you or believe whates out of your mouth, Robert. I just can¡¯t.¡±


    Her words struck me like a blow, and a hiss escaping my lips, I recalled a simr scenario but with¡­ No! I wouldn¡¯t talk or think about that devil of a woman now.


    I shook my head, fists clenched, and my countenance changed as I blurted out the magical words, hoping she¡¯d listen, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Renee. I sincerely apologize. I¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, just cut it! Do you think saying sorry will solve anything? It won¡¯t. When did you see me first? That night? Is it the truth? You haven¡¯t answered my questions! I did ask you to reveal what you know about me, but¡­.¡±


    ¡°The night I saw you at the beach was the first day Iid my eyes on you, Renee.¡± I deadpanned, my voice calm as I interrupted her, my eyes not leaving her face, as I stared intensely at her.


    ¡°That¡¯s not the truth, Robert. I don¡¯t know¡­ I don¡¯t believe you anymore.¡± She huffed, taking a step back from me and even though it was a subtle move, it felt like she was pulling away, and it hurt.


    My eyes softened as they looked into hers and then I said hoarsely, ¡°I won¡¯t me you for not believing me, Renee. But it¡¯s true. I saw you for the first time that night. I¡¯d been in a meeting with some of my clients when I caught sight of your¡­.¡± I paused, the words on my lips dying immediately while she raised her brows, obviously wanting me to continue.


    ¡°Caught sight of what? You were saying something?¡± She urged on, and I let out a sigh.


    ¡°Beautiful hair and gorgeous brown eyes.¡± I replied softly, looking away from her and staring at the sea.


    The wind billowed softly, carrying with it a heavy mncholy breeze that mirrored my feelings simultaneously.


    The sun was still shining brightly though, and it made the tense atmosphere brewing between us seem warmer than it was.


    ¡°Those strawberry blonde curls¡­.¡± I continued, ¡°The dazzling milky skin that glowed and then the curves underneath your jeans. You¡¯ve haunted my memories ever since that night I saw you, Renee. I knew I had to make you mine no matter what it took. No matter how I did it, I just had to have you and¡­.¡±


    Her eyes were watching me closely now, and I could see the hint of a smile ying on her lips, but she wiped it off just as fast as it came.


    ¡°And that¡¯s why you stalked me? That¡¯s why you did some background checks on me. I mean, what did you expect to find? Some hideous secret that¡¯d make you push me away when we were done with each other, right?¡± She half yelled, her eyes fluttering wildly.


    A heavy wind blew, shaking the yacht and cutting Renee off her incessant rant talks.


    ¡°What? What¡¯s going on?¡± She asked, her eyes widening in fear as the yacht gave a small tug again, iling against the water and I also tried to steady myself.


    ¡°Robert, won¡¯t you¡­.¡± Renee began as the boat shook violently, another dangerous breeze blowing and with a yelp, she stepped toward me for safety and tumbled into my arms.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± I said softly, wrapping my arms around her, and she looked into my eyes.


    The doe-like brown orbs trapped me again; even with her changing demeanor and messy hair, she still looked so freaking beautiful and so dangerous for me that it hurt.


    Something about her innocence called to me, and I wanted to tell her just how much she meant to me.


    I was slowly falling for this woman I¡¯d only met three days ago. I couldn¡¯t help feeling this way and there was no doubt in my mind that my feelings ran deeper than lust.


    The longer I held her, the more I grew weak. This girl, this woman¡­ She¡¯d stolen my heart.


    I¡¯d grown fond of her in the short time I¡¯d spent in herpany. Her innocence, quirkiness, and beauty had be so familiar to me that the mere thought of losing her made my heart ache.


    I didn¡¯t need a reason at all, because just the sight of her vulnerable face made me lose control. What the hell was happening to me? I never fell in love. It was always the other way around.


    Women unted themselves at me, begged for my love, and went to any lengths to get my attention, but I never gave in to their antics.


    Now here I was, under the spell of a stranger. I was utterly under Renee¡¯s spell and influence, and damn, if I didn¡¯t try to convince myself that I was just fascinated with her.


    This couldn¡¯t be love, or was it?


    She was still staring at me, saying nothing although her lips were quivering, and at that moment, with the sea dancing underneath us, I hesitated before leaning forward. Closing the gap between our faces, I softly pressed my lips against hers.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    The kiss was gentle at first, with a bit of desperation and tenderness that left her breathless, and I deepened the kiss because I wasn¡¯t stopping anytime soon.


    My hands moved down to her hips, pulling her closer to me while my mouth opened and took all of her.


    When her tongue brushed my lip, epting my invitation, I moaned quietly and pushed intently.


    Our tongues danced together, and my heart skipped a beat as she wrapped her arms around my neck, pulling me closer, one hand on my hair, fisting gently.


    ¡°Oh, Renee¡­¡± I mumbled. But that word was the beginning of my downfall because, in seconds, she pushed herself out of my grasp.


    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t be doing this!¡± She spat out, her hands around her robe, pulling it at the ends, as she continued, ¡°No, we shouldn¡¯t.¡±


    She took another step farther from me, and I noticed her shivering beneath her flimsy clothing.


    ¡°Are you cold?¡± I asked gently, finding my voice after some time.


    ¡°I¡¯m not cold. I¡¯m scared, and I just have this bad feeling around me. I need to leave this ce, Robert. I want to leave.¡±


    Her words sliced through my heart again, piercing through my memories simultaneously, as my mind was instantly drawn to past shbacks. I shook my head, warding the thoughts away.


    ¡°You¡¯re safe with me, Renee. No need to be scared, and we¡¯re¡­.¡±


    ¡°You expect me to believe you when you say I¡¯m safe in your care? Never, Robert. I want to leave! I need to go back to Nicole and¡­.¡±


    ¡°You want to leave? You want us to abandon all this between us and just leave?¡±


    For a brief second, she said nothing, and I saw pain sh across her eyes. But then her gaze hardened.


    ¡°Yes. Yes, I need to leave.¡±


    ¡°Maybe you should get some rest. You can go in the cabin, and then we can talkter and¡­.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you understand that I need to see my friend?¡± I have to leave now, and I don¡¯t care about . I want to go. Where¡¯s my phone?¡± She asked and I  told her where I¡¯d put the cell phone.


    ¡°You do want to go. Guess we¡¯ll have to cut our trip short then.¡± I said softly, the pain in my voice evident.


    She said nothing, just nodding her head in response and that alone was enough to break my heart.


    ¡°Cool, I¡¯ll drive us back to the dock. Luckily we¡¯re not too far off.¡±


    ¡°Good, I¡¯ll get dressed.¡± She muttered, turning around and walking toward the cabin.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I cursed out loud as she left me alone.


    The world started spinning, with everything looking like it was moving too quickly.


    My hands gripped tightly onto the railing and I watched the sea waves billowing underneath, waiting for any sign that what had just happened was a mistake. Or maybe Renee woulde back and apologize, wrapping her hands behind me and saying sorry in that lovely voice. But nothing of the sort happened.


    Everything happened so fast and suddenly. From being close to my dream girl, and enjoying the feel of her body with mine, to being torn apart like this.


    I couldn¡¯t even kiss her freely and her behavior change baffled me.


    I understood she was angry, but why? I didn¡¯t get it.


    I could barely breathe and as I walked away from the railing to my station at the yacht¡¯s drive seat, I could only ask myself the same question over and over again.


    What the hell had happened? How had things gone wrong so suddenly? Was this the end?

 Tense Aftermaths

    RENEE


    My eyes fluttered slowly as I felt a strong hand caressing my shoulders, urging me to get up.


    I didn¡¯t want to wake up, at least not yet. With a dreamy smile, I stretched my long body on the soft foam, my cheeks rosy as I continued to dream about a certain dark-haired, blue-eyed handsome man.


    ¡°Come on, Renee¡­¡± I heard a voice say again, but I paid no heed. Instead, I snuggled in and shut my eyes again.


    I wanted nothing to interrupt this blissful slumber and¡­


    ¡°Come on, Renee¡­ We have to go.¡±


    ¡°Go where?¡± I asked curiously, my eyes opening a little. I stretched slightly on the plush mattress.


    My vision was blurry due to my drowsy state, but the second I set my eyes on him, the smile on my face widened and I stretched out my limp arms, begging him to ept and fall on the bed with me.


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡±


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± He called out, his voice so deep and sexy that I had to clench my thighs in response.


    He was no longer stroking my arms. Instead, his hands were on my hair, ying with the strands. Every second he kept calling my name, saying we had to go somewhere, but I wasn¡¯t ready to go. At least not yet.


    ¡°Come stay with me. Let¡¯s have some fun before we go, Daddy.¡± I winked, giggling dramatically and blinking my sleepdledshes.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± He called out for the umpteenth time, removing his hands from my hair and he tried to stand straight, but I wasn¡¯t having that.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I called after him, catching him off guard, and then I dragged his hands so he almost tumbled on the bed with me.


    ¡°Oh no, Renee. We have to leave. We¡¯re at the dock. We¡¯ve reachednd, just like you requested.¡± He blurted out in a rush, and as he said those words, the wheels started turning in my head.


    Letting go of his hand like it was scorching hot, I blinked once, twice, and then my memories returned.


    We¡¯d fought earlier, and I¡¯d rushed into the cabin after that.


    Then I¡¯d taken a bath and put on some clothes. I¡¯did on the plush mattress, hoping to have a good rest, but still I¡¯d cried thinking about him, the argument, and all our good times. In the heat of the moment I must have fallen asleep, I now realized.


    Every argument and painful revtion reyed in my mind and with a hiss escaping my lips, I pushed myself up to the edge of the mattress.


    As I sat up, scrambling simultaneously, I tried to rub the sleep off my eyes and began looking for my cell phone.


    I knew it was somewhere near because I¡¯d called Nicole earlier, telling her I¡¯d being back to the motel soon.


    She¡¯d noticed my hurt tone, already pestering me with questions, but I¡¯d promised to tell her everything when I got home.


    I soon spotted the device on the bed, but even then, I looked around like I was searching for something when I wasn¡¯t looking for a thing.


    I was doing anything and everything to ensure I didn¡¯t look at him.


    His stare bored a hole into my skin, and I shuddered. My cheeks red up with embarrassment as I recalled what I¡¯d just said to him in my sleep-addled state.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I mumbled to myself, raking my hands through my hair in frustration.


    ¡°Huh? Did you say something, Renee?¡± He asked, and just the sound of his voice warmed my heart in ways I didn¡¯t want.


    The way he said my name. The way he stared at me. The things he did to me¡­ A whimper escaped my lips, and I almost let out a pained sob, but I held myself back. I had to be strong, and show him that he didn¡¯t affect me in anyway.


    Besides I¡¯d already told him this was a fling, so why was I feeling like this? Why was I hurting?


    ¡°Renee¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop fucking calling my name!¡± I yelled, my voice so harsh that I regretted the second the words sprouted out from my lips.


    ¡°Okay.¡± He said after a moment and added, ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for you outside. Get your things.¡±


    His voice was cold and as I looked up at him, our gazes locking, a chill passed through me.


    ¡°Okay.¡± I replied curtly, and turning around, he began to walk out of the room, leaving me to stare at his retreating figure. I bit my lips in desire as I stared at his nice physique.


    Even from behind, he was still muscr, and his biceps by the sides shot out so sexily. How could this man ever be in his forties?¡­ Damn, he still looked and carried himself so well.


    I swallowed a huge lump of saliva down my throat, willing myself to stop ogling him, and I blinked, flustered.


    ¡°Do you need anything?¡± I heard him say.


    Opening my closed eyes, I saw that he¡¯d stopped walking and was staring at me with a knowing look.


    He must¡¯ve caught me ogling. If only he knew what was going on in my head right at this moment. I flushed incredulously, shaking my head negatively. I shrugged my shoulders and waited for him to say another thing, but he didn¡¯t much to my broken heart disappointment.


    If he spoke, then it would piss me off. But I¡¯d also be angry if he said nothing. What the hell was wrong with me?


    ¡°Just leave!¡± I muttered harshly, my voiceing out louder than I¡¯d intended, and I saw pain sh briefly in his eyes.


    Clenching his fists, he nodded and briskly turned away from me. He walked out of the room with his long legs, easily carrying him over the threshold in seconds.


    The door shut harshly when he left as if he¡¯d banged it angrily and plopping my ass on the bed, I groaned albeit sadly.


    ¡°What¡­ what is wrong with me?¡± I mumbled, lips quivering and tears lurking at the sides of my eyes, trickling down my cheeks.


    I initiated this distance and tension between us, so why didn¡¯t I feel happy or satisfied?


    Why? Why? Why?


    ¡°I won¡¯t overthink about him or what happened.¡± I said defiantly, my hands going to my cheeks and wiping the tears off my face, I grabbed my phone and bag and began to walk out of the bedroom without sparing one nce back.


    ~~


    The moment I stepped out of the yacht, rounding the corners of therge boat, I saw Robert waiting for me from afar.


    My legs wobbled beneath me as I walked toward him, my body tensing up at the same time.


    My breath hitched in my throat and I couldn¡¯t help but gasp quietly once he came into clearer view.


    He looked breathtakingly handsome and so different, like I¡¯d not just seen him a few minutes ago. The brief rays of the setting sun shed on his face, and my throat bobbed when I dragged my gaze from his face to his chest.


    He had on a white button-up long-sleeved shirt, the two top buttons open, and a frown instantly formed on his beautiful face as he saw me approaching.


    His body moved slightly, his jaw dropping open as if he was about to say something, but then I dragged my gaze away from him to the man standing by his side.


    I wasn¡¯t seeing Robert¡¯spanion clearly. Still, when I came closer, I recognized the all too friendly, familiar face.


    It was Mr. George, the ship¡¯s caretaker, and a warm smile formed on my face instantly.


    ¡°Hello, Mr. George.¡± I greeted, hands outstretched, ready to shake but instead he tackled and pulled me in for a hug.


    ¡°How are you, my dear?¡± He asked after we disentangled, adding for emphasis, ¡°Did you have a good time? Mr. Robert, did you treat her well and¡­.¡±


    ¡°Erm, Mr. George, I think that¡¯s enough. We need to leave as soon as possible because Miss Renee has somewhere she urgently needs to be.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± The older man said softly, mirroring the words in my head as I stared, surprised at Robert.


    ¡°Yeah, take good care of the ship too. I¡¯ll see youter.¡± He added, and Mr. George nodded in response.


    Robert looked stiff, his jaw set and eyes unreadable. His demeanor didn¡¯t bother me.


    Rather it was the endearment he¡¯d just used to address me, that worried me the most.


    ¡®Miss Renee?¡¯ Wow. Just wow. The first time he¡¯d introduced me to Mr. George as his girlfriend and partner, but now I was just a random woman¡­ a random missus.


    It wasn¡¯t supposed to hurt, but it did, and now just like karma, pain shed through my eyes as I looked at him.


    If he noticed, he didn¡¯t say a thing. Instead, he stretched his right hand toward me and said, ¡°Come with me, Renee. We have to leave.¡±? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°Of course.¡± I said quietly, refusing his stretched hand and trying hard not to break in front of him.


    I had to keep myself together. I had to.


    I nced nkly at Mr. George, wanting to wave goodbye, but the concerned look on his face embarrassed me. Ignoring him, I kept my mouth shut and turned away as Robert led me from the boat and onto the dock.


    ¡°You seem tense¡­.¡± He said as soon as we got to the busy ship harbor, breaking the brewing silence between us and even though I could feel his permeating gaze on me, I dared not to look up.


    ¡°Can we just get on our way without saying a word?¡± I mumbled and I  thought he didn¡¯t hear me for a second until he said, ¡°Okay, as you wish.¡±


    As I wish? What a good word to put in now¡­

 Goodbyes

    ROBERT


    The sun was setting already when we left the sea dock.


    We¡¯d got into my car minutes after leaving the sea harbor, and the second we climbed in, silence befell us.


    Before the driver started the Jeep¡¯s ignition, I considered leaving her alone and bidding her goodbye from then on, but I couldn¡¯t.


    I still wasn¡¯t ready to let her go and alsoI knew deep within me that it would only be gentlemanly of me  to follow her home and drop her safely at the motel.


    Fuck being gentlemanly. I didn¡¯t want to let Renee go. I¡¯d never felt this way with anyone before, and the fact that Renee was the first woman to bring out these emotions baffled me all the more.


    Somewhere within me, I wondered if Renee was my soulmate, my better half, the woman I was destined to be with for life. Why hadn¡¯t I met her all these years if she was the one then?


    ¡®She¡¯s years younger than you, silly. When would you have met her if not now?¡¯ My subconscious chimed in, dropping the obvious rhetorical questions, and I hissed silently.


    A cool soothing breeze blew into the vehicle, intensifying the chilly atmosphere brewing between us. All the while, I kept sneaking nces at Renee, thinking and hoping she¡¯d look at me. But she didn¡¯t¡­ Not once.


    She sat stiffly even when I leaned over to take something from her side of the car seat. I¡¯d even increased my subtle hints, brushing my arm against hers-not identally, of course-expecting her to say something. Still, I was disappointed because she didn¡¯t make a single move.


    She just sat, staring nkly out the window and paying no heed to me.


    Her face was straight, gazing out the window with her gorgeous as fuck strawberry blonde hair billowing freely. Renee refused to say a word to me or initiate conversation.


    This distance¡­ It was like hell for me, and I wasn¡¯t sure I could bear it. The silence between us was so thick I could almost feel it pressing on my skin, making the space between our seats even more ufortable.


    It didn¡¯t help that she seemed to move a bit, and the fragile part of me hoped she was ready to face me and say something. My ego was bruised when she took out her cell phone from her bag and then glued her eyes to it.


    ¡°Fuck Renee¡­¡± I mumbled incoherently and inaudibly, making sure she didn¡¯t hear me.


    My hands were syed on my thighs, and my fists clenched as I summoned all the courage I had to say something to her.


    Even in the stiffest board meetings and most tense situations, I always dared to say something, but here I was, seated across a woman who¡¯d overwhelmed my life in the short time we¡¯d spent together, and yet I couldn¡¯t say a thing.


    I dragged my gaze away from her, staring ahead, trying to see if I could focus on anything else, but it was impossible.


    She filled my head, every inch of her. Even when I¡¯d been cold to her in actions and words, I regretted it, but she had no idea. She just didn¡¯t.


    After a few more moments, I couldn¡¯t take it anymore and turned toward her, ready to say something.


    Sooner orter, we¡¯d get to her destination, and then she¡¯d leave. I shut my eyes briefly, trying not to think about that moment, but it was stuck in my head, and it was bound to happen.


    Now was the time to talk to her, and I dared not miss this opportunity.


    Taking onest deep breath, I started to speak before I lost my nerve. ¡°Renee¡­¡± I called out, and swiftly she raised her head, turning to face me.


    A shocking wave of electricity passed through me as her beautiful brown eyes sparkled in the car¡¯s dim lighting. As her gaze held mine unmoving, I blurted out incredulously, ¡°Renee, aren¡¯t you going to say something? I¡­ No, you don¡¯t have to say a thing¡­ I¡­ I¡­¡±


    I was stammering foolishly like a lost kid, and I swore inwardly.


    ¡°Am I going to see you again? Ever?¡±


    A hurried breath escaped my lips as I asked that question, and still holding her gaze, I waited for her to say something.


    At first, it looked like she wasn¡¯t going to answer. Like she was going to ignore me, but atst, her full lips upturned, and she dropped a bombshell, saying coldly, ¡°You should know the answer to that, Robert.¡± She swallowed, and continued, ¡°What we had was a¡­ a fling, right? It was. As much as I enjoyed my time, I must face reality and go on with my life. Coupled with the fact that we¡¯re parting due to a misunderstanding, I think we shouldn¡¯t push this conversation any further.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± My voice sounded strong, and I tried to conceal my scattered emotions, but deep inside, I was breaking.


    Her words pierced deep within me, like shards of ss cutting through every fiber of my skin, and it hurt so much.


    ¡°You¡¯re right¡­.¡± I agreed after a while, and I marveled at how helpless I was in this woman¡¯s hands.


    I rarely asked women if we¡¯d meet again. It was usually the other way around, and once again, it dawned on me that I was letting down my guard for Renee. Something I never did, even to the mother of my¡­ I stopped my thought halfway, blinking anding back to reality.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± She called out and damn! The way she said my name made me crave her so much.


    Her voice was soft and gentle yet firm, giving no other information about how she felt. She sounded utterly detached from everything around her, but whenever she called my name¡­ I lost it.


    ¡°I¡­ I might have been too blunt. But I¡¯m leaving soon, as you know. Well, you might even know when because you had me investigated.¡± She paused, and pain shed through her gaze.


    ¡®I had her investigated on?¡¯ She made it sound like I¡¯d done a horrific thing by prying into her life. Maybe I¡¯d done a bad thing, but I just wanted to know about¡­


    ¡°Whatever we had was going to end irrespective of whether I leave now or not. Remember the first time you saw me at the beach and flirted with me¡­.¡± She trailed off, a smile on her cheeks as she recalled those sweet memories, and my chest clenched.


    ¡°This was supposed to be a one-night stand, you know. No strings attached and all that. We might have surpassed our initial intentions, but this was how it was meant to be in the end.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, you¡¯re right.¡± I chimed immediately after she finished and she nodded briefly, dragging her gaze away from me as she continued staring out the window.


    It was clear she was done with the conversation, but I wasn¡¯t. Just as I opened my lips to say something, the car lurched forward, and then it came to an abrupt halt.


    My eyes widened as I realized that we must have reached her destination. I asked the driver, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re here, sir. We¡¯ve gotten to the beach¡¯s motel just like you requested and¡­.¡±


    His remaining words were lost as I raked my hands through my hair and cursed.


    This was the end¡­ Renee was leaving me.


    My body stiffened as my heart sank, and I grew cold and empty.


    Nothing was worth living for at that moment, and my mind wandered elsewhere, trying toprehend what was about to happen.


    My eyes began to burn for the first time, and I let them water a little, but I forced myself to stay strong. Why was I letting these emotions overcloud me now?


    ¡°Thank you¡­ I appreciate that.¡± I heard Renee say softly to the driver, and then I felt her gaze on me.


    I was looking out the window, staring at anywhere but her as I waited for her to say her final words.


    She said nothing, her lips stretching slowly into a sad smile. This time, I couldprehend her facial expression. She looked sad, mirroring my demeanor. The stark realization that she would also miss me uplifted my weary mind a bit.


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± She began, stretching her hands to touch mine, but I tackled her before she could do so.


    Not caring about the consequences or the fact that she might hate me for what I was about to do, I leaned in, grabbed her face, and dropped my lips on hers.


    At first, she tried to struggle, muttering incorrigible words, but I didn¡¯t let go as I allowed myself to bask in thisst kiss.


    Her hands soon rested lightly against my shoulders, and then suddenly, my fingers tangled themselves in the hair at her nape as she kissed back.


    After kissing for a few seconds longer, we broke apart slowly, gazing deeply into each other¡¯s eyes. Our breaths mingled together and my eyes searched hers for an exnation


    Her emotions were all over the ce with the way her face twitched, and I saw that there was still something hidden behind the surface of her eyes. Like there was something she wanted to say but wouldn¡¯t.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± She said softly, and that was all the cue I needed to leave her arms.


    As I broke apart from her, my hands still clutching her cheeks, I gazed into her eyes that were now closed, and I spoke in a husky voice, initiating the words I so much dreaded. ¡°Goodbye, Renee¡­¡±


    Her eyes opened briefly, and she gasped but said nothing.


    Pulling her hands from underneath mine, she heaved a huge sigh and then turned, touching the car lock and twisting it open.


    My eyes locked on her every movement and I watched as she opened the car, and as she stepped out, she turned to look at me and said calmly, ¡°Take care, Robert.¡±


    Her voice was the only thing ringing in my ears as she disappeared from my sight, gently shutting the car door and leaving me staring outside the front passenger window.


    I watched her retreating steps, and for a while, I felt numb, having no idea what to do.


    ¡°Should I drive to the hotel, Sir?¡± My driver asked.


    Gritting my jaw irritatedly at the brief interruption, I sighed, knowing he wasn¡¯t at fault for my sour mood. Besides, he¡¯d asked a simple question.


    I was tempted to tell him to drive me to the nearest bar so I could drown myself in alcohol and maybe pick a woman who¡¯d help me forget about Renee, but I knew the notion was stupid.


    As brief as this whirlwind romance had been, one thing I was sure of was no one could ever rece Renee in my heart.


    Giving the driver consent to drive me back to the hotel, I let my head fall to my car seat. As the vehicle began to move slowly, I wondered if I could ever feel this same way again.


    Well, the chance of that happening was one percent over hundred, and raking my hands through my hair, I let my thoughts overwhelm me.

 Double Heartbreaks

    RENEE


    ¡°What time are we leaving, Nicole?¡± I asked softly, dipping my hands in the snack bag and grabbing a bunch of chocte chip cookies.


    ¡°Leaving here?¡± Nicole asked in response, turning to face me. She snickered as she said again, ¡°At this rate, you might increase your sugar level with how you¡¯ve been eating, and you know that¡¯s not good for your health, right?¡±


    Rolling my eyes, I took another cookie, stuffing the sugary sweet in my mouth and grabbing my nearby can of c, I sipped helplessly, gurgling at the end.


    Binge eating was the only way I could get my mind off Robert. So I¡¯d eat my fill, even if I overstuffed myself.


    However, no matter how much I ate or drank, I couldn¡¯t get over him.


    His scent filled every inch of my skin, and thest kiss we¡¯d shared before saying farewell was ingrained in me.


    If I licked my lips, I could still taste him, which made me more heartbroken.


    I¡¯d done the right thing. This decision was best for both of us, right? Besides, there¡¯s no way I would have expected more from him.


    Even though I was dying inside, I was trying to justify my actions, and trying to make everything sound right.


    ¡°Are you okay, Renee?¡± Nicole asked, waving her hands in front of me, a puzzled expression on her face and in response, I blinked twice and nodded yes.


    ¡°Did you catch what I just said? I was worried for a while because you were lost in your thoughts¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Nicole. There¡¯s no  problem.¡± I blurted out, the guilt buried in the depths of my conscience resurfacing and it only encouraged her to question me more.


    Since I¡¯d stepped into the motel, asking for some space, she¡¯d obliged. But now the look she gave me told me she was done waiting.


    She needed the whole story. She wanted to know what had happened between Robert and me. She wanted all the juicy deets about my escapade, and I¡¯d promised to tell her everything, so now I just had to.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    But how could I tell her that I might have hopelessly fallen in love with a stranger? How could I tell her that Robert was twice my age and not someone I could be with long-term? How could I also tell her that Robert had a strange, mysterious personality and that he¡¯d stalked me and gotten some personal information about me? How could I tell her all this? How would I start? What would I say?


    ¡°Renee, you better start talking. I have no idea why you¡¯ve been sulking and eating since you returned from that trip with your handsome stranger, but I¡¯ll be damned if I don¡¯t get the full story. Also, we don¡¯t have much time. We¡¯re supposed to leave tomorrow, and we haven¡¯t even packed yet.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I know. You didn¡¯t answer my question too. What time are we leaving?¡±


    ¡°Early in the morning if we want to catch the train on time. Probably before eight, we¡¯ll be out of here. So we need to pack up and sleep early, but what happened between you and your hot stranger?¡± Nicole asked again, her brows furrowed as she gave me a wink, and my chest clenched painfully.


    The more she reminded me that we had a train to catch tomorrow, the more I became scared of leaving this city.


    If I left Miami, I¡¯d be saying goodbye to the memories I¡¯d made here and Robert too.


    I¡¯de to this city to nurse a heartbreak, but I was leaving with a new one. Oh, what an irony!


    ¡°Hmmmn¡­¡± I sighed slowly.


    ¡°Yes? I¡¯m waiting, Renee.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ Honestly, I don¡¯t know how to begin or what to say. I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m confused.¡± I stuttered, a whimper escaping my lips, and that¡¯s when Nicole became worried.


    ¡°Renee, what happened?¡± She asked gently, this time without any trace of mockery.


    Instead, she came closer to where I was seated on the bed and pulled me toward her. She embraced me softly and whispered in my ears again, ¡°Talk to me, Renee. What happened? Did he hurt you? Did he¡­ Did he abuse you or¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh no, Nicole!¡± I blurted out instantly, a pained chuckle escaping my lips at herst question.


    Robert never abused me for once. He did the reverse. He made me feel on top of the world, treating me like a queen and making me realize that I¡¯d lowered my standards to be with Dn.


    From the romantic dinner we¡¯d had, the fantastic out-of-the-world sexcapades, and the way he¡¯d treated me like I was a fragile jewel, Robert had sessfully made me fall for him in just these few days.


    It sounded so absurd and strange to me. I was amitted person, and I rarely gave myself too easily. I never believed in love at first sight because I was someone who¡¯d get to know a partner well before giving my all¡­ but with Robert?


    That first time I¡¯d seen him at the beach, I¡¯d fallen hard without even noticing.


    Those gleaming blue orbs had entrapped me. His smile and flirtatious innuendos and what not¡­ How could I not have fallen?


    I sniffled quietly as a tear rolled down my cheek, looking away from Nicole¡¯s worried face and off into the distance.


    ¡°He was fantastic¡­ My first one-night stand experience, you know¡­¡± I began slowly. ¡°He blew my mind¡­¡± I  paused to chuckle. ¡°He was so nice to me, and I enjoyed every aspect of him¡­ I¡­¡±


    Not leaving any detail out anymore, I told Nicole everything that happened between Robert and me. All the good times, the hot as fuck sex experience, and Nicole could only stare at me in awe. She refused to believe some of the things I¡¯d told her, but it was the truth.


    That said, I told her about our misunderstanding and his age.


    ¡°Wow, 43 years old. Not bad. I guess younded yourself a sugar daddy.¡± She yfully chimed in and I hissed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you see nothing wrong with his age. He¡¯s twice my age Nicole, twice our age!¡±


    ¡°And so? From what you¡¯ve described, he doesn¡¯t look it, and he sounds like a perfectly nice guy. Forty-three years isn¡¯t that much, and honestly, there¡¯re a lot of girls who¡¯d die to have a DILF fuck em¡¯.¡±


    ¡°How crude, Nicole¡­.¡± I eximed, and she just rolled her eyes.


    Sighing, I told Nicole again how he¡¯d stalked me and gotten some personal information that I still had no idea about.


    ¡°What? What the fuck? He stalked you? I mean, he ran a background check on you? Like an investigation or something?¡±


    ¡°Yes, and I was so pissed. He fucking invaded my privacy. Like, what¡¯d he expect to find? I have no idea and¡­ oh jeez!¡±


    ¡°Oh, babe. That¡¯s creepy!¡±  Nicole eximed by the time I was done talking, and I just nodded.


    ¡°I know. I don¡¯t know why he did that. Ished out and ended it. I cut our yacht trip short, so I¡¯m here. I came back, and now I want to forget about him and try to move on. We¡¯re going to Ondo tomorrow, and I know I¡¯ll always¡­cherish him deeply but¡­.¡± My voice cracked at the end and I  quickly turned away from Nicole¡¯s shocked face to hide my tears again.


    ¡°Honey, I¡¯m sorry¡­you know I¡¯m only worried about you, and I hope nothing serious has happened between you two. If you¡¯re feeling this way, then¡­.¡± She trailed off, hugging me again, and trying tofort me while I sniffed in her arms.


    ¡°That¡¯s all that happened, Nicole. I don¡¯t know what to say. He stirred up strange feelings in me and¡­ I almost fell in love. But after what happened reality dawned on me. I don¡¯t know where we stand anymore. It feels like things changed overnight, maybe forever, but it¡¯s for the best.¡± I replied sadly, staring up at Nicole¡¯s face which was adorned with aforting expression.


    ¡°I understand how you feel, Renee, but please promise me something, alright? Please don¡¯t beat yourself up and get too attached or obsessed about him, okay? Remember, we came here so you could get over that motherfucker. I can¡¯t let you go back home with another heartbreak or whatever this is. You have to be strong and not overthink, okay?¡± She said softly, caressing my hair gently, ¡°Also, don¡¯t forget this, but you¡¯ve got me. I¡¯m your best friend, and I¡¯m here for you. Alright?¡± She finished reassuring me and I nodded.


    ¡°Good, good, that¡¯s my girl.¡± She giggled, and softly I joined in with a chuckle.


    ¡°Hmmmn, now what do you say about stalking him as payback?¡± Nicole winked and dragged herptop to her thighs as she switched it on.


    ¡°No way, Nicole! I don¡¯t want to see him or¡­.¡±


    ¡°Come on, babe. Leave this to me, and tell me what¡¯s his name?¡±


    ¡°Nicole¡­¡± I drawled, but she didn¡¯t seem to be paying me attention. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m waiting. His full name? You said it¡¯s Robert, right? And he¡¯s rich¡­ if you don¡¯t know his surname, I¡¯ll search till we get it¡­.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Nicole¡­¡± I drawled, rubbing my hands on my forehead, and then I said curtly, grimacing as his name flew out my lips, ¡°Robert rke. His full name is Robert rke.¡±


    ¡°Good! Investigation mode unlocked!¡± Nicole squealed and got to work while I watched.


    Her excitement was contagious, and I couldn¡¯t help but grin. I decided to focus on something else as I didn¡¯t want to know what she had uncovered.


    I didn¡¯t want to know any more details about him that might shatter my heart, and most especially, I didn¡¯t want to see the women he¡¯d been linked with in the past. He might even be married, for fuck¡¯s sake¡­ ugh!


    I didn¡¯t want to know or see because I might get jealous. My heart tightened at the thought of Robert moving on and finding another fling who he¡¯d spoil andvish all his attention on.


    I didn¡¯t want to know at all. So instead of staring at Nicole¡¯sptop or asking her if she¡¯d gotten any tangible information, I grabbed my soda and the snacks littered on the bed and continued eating.


    I was going to do anything at all to forget about Robert rke!

 Parting Gifts

    RENEE


    ¡°A package for a woman named Miss Renee¡­.¡±


    The second I heard my name, my brows lifted and I instantly whipped my face toward the room¡¯s doorway where Nicole was standing.


    We¡¯d been busy packing our things and getting ready to leave for the train station when a knock sounded on our motel door.


    At first, we hesitated, thinking the sound wasn¡¯ting from our end. But after two more taps, Nicole gave up and went to attend to whoever was at the door.


    We weren¡¯t expecting anyone, and considering how sullen and moody I was this morning, I didn¡¯t pay any heed or bother to check who this unexpected visitor was.


    Not until I heard my name, and the wheels in my head started to turn.


    Who the hell was that? The voice sounded masculine, and he said he had brought me a package. If I could recall clearly and I kept searching my brain to remember, I didn¡¯t order anything from anyone or anywhere.


    Where would I get the money to order? More so, what would I order?


    There must be a mixup somewhere. That was the only logical exnation I coulde up with.


    However, keeping my wandering thoughts aside, I slowly rose from the bed.


    Straightening, I turned around, ready to meet this mysterious person and receive the package he¡¯d brought.


    Nicole was still standing by the door, her face turned, her gaze locking on mine, with a raised brow and a confused expression. Something seemed off with her look.


    Even though she seemed surprised, there was a hint of a knowing smirk tugging at the ends of her lips, and it had me raising my hunches.


    Was there something she wasn¡¯t telling me? She¡¯d seen the package, so did that sneaky smile have something to do with it?


    Well, I¡¯d never know the answer because I didn¡¯t ask. Staring ahead nkly, I trudged toward the door. That¡¯s when I saw him or it-The said package- Gifts? For me?


    I felt a chill running down my spine, and my subconscious told me something I dreaded to voice.


    ¡®No freaking way Renee. No way!¡¯ I reassured myself, stering a smile on my face, and walked to meet the delivery man.


    He was wearing a pair of shades, obscuring his face. I squinted as his dark shades stared right back at me. His presence, or the thing he was holding rather, was causing an immediate drop in my mood. I felt something strange go up my skin. It was giving me goosebumps.


    Was it curiosity? Was it anger or bubbling fury? Or was it irritation? I had no idea.


    ¡°Are you Miss Renee?¡± He asked, a warm smile stretching his lips. I nodded, dumbfounded, staring at him, then back at Nicole.


    Oh, boy. My hands were fiddling anxiously and I was sure Nicole wouldn¡¯t have noticed if she hadn¡¯t been looking at me. She touched my shoulder, giving me the support I needed and I exhaled in brief relief from her support.


    ¡°Um¡­ Yes. Yes, I¡¯m Renee. How may I help you?¡± My voice came out shaky and quiet but audible to the delivery man.


    ¡°For you.¡± He said, handing over a brown parcel.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± That¡¯s the only word I could muster. My eyes roamed over the gift, which looked like a frame. Though it was neatly wrapped, I could see it was a photo frame or card, judging by how it was shaped.


    ¡°And this is for you, too.¡±  The delivery man said again and when I looked up to face him, I gasped.


    ¡°Oh my goodness!¡± Nicole eximed. When I nced fleetingly at her, I saw her looking at me, wide-eyed and mouth gaping.


    My cheeks burned a bright crimson and I dragged my gaze back to therge bouquet of purple flowers in front of me. A mixture ofvender and hyacinth stared at me, and my heart beat wildly inside my chest.


    I didn¡¯t need to ask the delivery man who¡¯d sent the packages because I knew. My earlier hunch had been correct.


    Oh goodness. He¡¯d gotten me flowers and so many of them. Though his gesture was sweet, I was angry because I remembered that he must¡¯ve known what my favorite flowers were when he investigated me.


    Just how much did he know still? How much-


    ¡°Can Ie in and drop the bouquet?¡± The delivery man asked patiently, and clearing my throat, I apologized for keeping him waiting.


    Then I opened the room¡¯s door wider for him toe in.


    Dropping the bouquet, he walked toward me, handing me a small bag I hadn¡¯t seen.


    I was tempted to look inside and see what it was, but before I could, the young man spoke, ¡°If you could sign here. I¡¯ll tell your admirer you got his gifts.¡±


    My admirer? My cheeks blushed uncontrobly, and a peal of hystericalughter almost bubbled underneath my throat, but I kept it to myself.


    If only he knew what Robert was to me.


    Swiftly and without saying another word, I grabbed the pen and signed my name on therge book he held.


    Finished, I asked the delivery man to wait. I gave him a small five-dor tip- as that was what I could afford-and I saw him out of the room.


    The second I locked the door, Nicole squealed, her eyes rolling as she screamed, ¡°Renee! Damnnnn¡­ This had better not be what I think it is.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you¡¯re thinking, you might be right.¡±


    ¡°Oh my goodness! Do you see all this? What¡¯s in that bag? And these flowers too, they¡¯re so over the top. What are we going to do with them? We can¡¯t take this with us to the station. You know that, right?¡±


    ¡°I know¡­.¡± I said with a sigh, my chest tightening as I at the thought of leaving such a beautiful bouquet behind.


    ¡°Bitch, aren¡¯t you going to check what¡¯s in the bag and the box? I think it¡¯s a photo frame or something.¡±


    Nicole didn¡¯t need to say much, because as she finished her sentence, I dragged my feet to the bed and plopped my ass on it. I undid the bow and looked inside the bag.


    There was a small note, and it read¡­


    ¡®Something to remind you of our matching initials. ~ R.¡¯


    R? Robert & Renee? Oh jeez. Tears burned at the back of my eyes, and I blinked them quickly before they could stream down my cheeks.


    Slowly I unboxed the bag and saw a small ck jewelry velvet box. I opened it with trembling hands, and my breath caught in my throat.


    It was a stunning ne with a gold letter R at the tip and it shined bright, almost blinding me.


    The long chain sparkled. Also, with the letter ¡®R¡¯ was a single rosebud with four tiny gemstones around the bottom. The petals were white gold and very delicate. I touched them tenderly, my eyes closed, trying to calm my rapidly hammering pulse.


    ¡°Oh jeez, Renee, I did say younded yourself a sugar daddy. I wasn¡¯t even joking about it. This man gifted you a freaking diamond ne. Fuck!¡±


    ¡°These are diamonds? I¡­ What are you¡­¡±


    ¡°The second I saw the engraved designer name at the top, I knew whatever was in this box was going to be stunning and expensive as fuck. You¡¯re holding a handmade Cartier diamond ne there, bitch. Bet you don¡¯t want to know how much this cost. This is crazy. It could be worth half a-¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to know about the price tag.¡± I cut in, my hands still trembling as I cautiously dropped the box by the side of the bed.


    My eyes still staring  at the shining ne, I then opened the next item he¡¯d given me.


    When I ripped open the cardboard, I gasped. It was a photo frame. A folded piece of paper was attached to the frame¡¯s back edge, and I carefully picked it up, afraid of tearing it.


    I took another deep breath and unfolded it, my jaw dropping when I saw Robert¡¯s neatly cursive handwriting.


    How perfect could this man be? He was still forbidden despite his perfection. Even when I¡¯d been cold to him, he put my behavior aside and sent me these.


    What were they? A parting present? Payment for the time spent with him? Or had he sent them because he was just thinking about me? Should I even send them back to him, or what?


    My heart mmed, and tears pooled at the corners of my eyes.


    Sniffing, I began to read the note.


    ¡®Baby girl,


    I don¡¯t know how to begin or what to say, honestly. I¡¯m picking up this pen to write to you, and I realized that you¡¯d be the first woman I¡¯ll be doing this sort of thing for. What is this? A love letter? Goodbye letter? I have no idea, but I wanted to say I miss you already. I¡¯m sorry we parted under such bad circumstances, and I ept it¡¯s all my fault. Thank you for being with me, even when I strangely approached you. Every night spent with you in my arms was the best I¡¯ve had in years. I wanted you to know that. I¡¯m not really expecting anything in return for this gift besides I know you¡¯re already leaving. I wish we¡¯d had more time together. Maybe this was for the best. I wish you a safe trip and hope you¡¯ll wish me the same, as I¡¯ll return home soon. Nothing is keeping me in Miami anymore, so I have to leave. Don¡¯t hesitate to contact me if there¡¯s anything you¡¯d like to say. I attached my cell phone number at the end of this letter. I¡¯m not expecting your call, but I hope to hear your voice again someday.


    P. S. I know you¡¯re wondering how I figured out your favorite flowers. You should have the answer by now. Knowing that the subtle knowledge might piss you off, I¡¯m offering my apologies in advance. You left acy lingerie with me. I saw it in our cabin when I returned to the yacht, and I¡¯ll be making good use of it. (winks).


    Till we see again, Renee.


    With most sincere regards,


    Robert rke, your Daddy.¡¯


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I chuckled as I finished his beautifully written note.


    His words tugged at my heartstrings, and his cryptic message at the end confused me. ¡®Till we see again?¡¯ Well, I wouldn¡¯t dwell on it.


    I tried to convince myself it was a typo. But deep within me, I wanted the message toe true.


    I wanted to see Robert rke again. I wanted to bury myself in his broad arms and inhale his hot masculine scent. Maybe I¡¯d fall for him, over and over again and-


    ¡°Oh, Renee, you¡¯re crying.¡± Nicole whispered gently, her right hand rubbing my shoulder and her words snapped me out of my reverie, bringing me back to the present. ¡°Let¡¯s see what he framed for you, okay? Maybe it¡¯s an artistic photo of you he took when you were asleep¡­¡± My best friend began to guess, but she was put to shame when I saw the photo or painting rather.


    It was the silhouette of a woman staring away into the distance. She had strawberry blonde curls, the same shade as my hair and my heart did another backflip.


    ¡°Hemissioned a painting of you. With your hair and-damn, this man¡¯s got money, which only confirms what I saw about him on the inte. When did he even order this?¡± Nicole asked, mirroring the questions in my head and I could only shrug in surprise as she was.


    ¡®I have my copy of this portrait too. Something to stare at when I¡¯m thinking of you.¡¯ He wrote at the edge of the frame, and I showed Nicole.


    For a second, we sat in silence, staring at the gifts, not saying a thing.


    Finally, she broke the tension by asking, ¡°Are you going to call him and thank him for the gifts? Do you want to go see him now or¡­.¡±


    ¡°Uh? Why do you ask that?¡±


    ¡°I can see the look on your face girl. Like you want to do something and-¡±


    ¡°We have a train to catch Nicole. And it¡¯s almost time.¡± I cut her off, staring at the watch on my wrist. Sure enough, we only had thirty more minutes to get out of this ce and to the train station.


    ¡°Are you sure, Renee? You know if we get on that train, there¡¯d be no turning back, right?¡±


    ¡°I know, Nicole. But I have to think and be sure. He gave me his number so I can call him when or if I want to.¡±? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°That¡¯s true. You¡¯re right.¡± Nicole agreed, and I smiled sadly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s continue packing, shall we?¡± I urged and nodding, Nicole stood up and walked to where our packed bags were.


    Following suit, I stood up and nced at the flowers, wishing I could take them with me.


    As for the jewelry and the lovely portrait, I sharply stashed them into one of my packed bags and with a sad expression, I dragged my gaze away from the bed.


    It was time to pack. Time to leave.

 Decisions

    ROBERT


    FIVE DAYS LATER


    For the umpteenth time this afternoon, I stared nkly at themissioned portrait hanging on the wall in my room.


    My eyes refused to stray, and I couldn¡¯t look away. Even if I managed to turn, some invisible force brought my eyes back to the beauty on the wall, with her hair billowing in the cool, invisible breeze.


    My strawberry blonde beauty. My Renee. I closed my eyes at the thought of her and gripped the whiskey ss I held in my hand so tight it almost broke.


    Not that I cared.


    Opening my eyes briefly, I stared at the portrait, this time imagining Renee standing near me in my oversized shirt, or maybe some nice as fuck sexy lingerie. Or even a bathrobe¡­ anything at all. She always looked so good in any clothing, and I loved that about her.


    ¡®She¡¯s not here with you, mister. Get your thinking straight.¡¯


    My subconscious chimed all too quickly and shaking my head, I tried to dispel my wandering thoughts, but it was too difficult.


    It¡¯d been five days since I left Miami, and came back to my abode here in New York. Five excruciatingly painful days, since I¡¯dst seen my girl, and I was fucked up.


    My mental health, my physical health, and my business were all suffering.


    I just wasn¡¯t the same at all.


    I couldn¡¯t focus on my business schedules as my thoughts were filled with images of Renee constantly and I would stare at my phone, hoping she¡¯d call me¡­ but she never did.


    To say I was disappointed was putting it lightly. I was heartbroken, helpless, and losing it.


    After my apology, the portrait worth over a thousand dors, the expensive-as- fuck flower arrangements, and the jewelry, she still hadn¡¯t called me. And it hurt.


    It hurt so much-like it was piercing into my skin.


    This was the first time in years I¡¯d felt such severe pain and I couldn¡¯t breathe properly because of it.


    It was suffocating, unbearable and overwhelming.


    ¡®Maybe you should just let her go. She doesn¡¯t want you anymore. That¡¯s evident.¡¯ My subconscious said yet again, but I ignored the internal rumbles.


    There was no fucking way I was letting Renee go without a fight.


    She¡¯d enjoyed every single bit of what we shared, so she had to be feeling this way too.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    If she wasn¡¯t, well, I had no care. I would still keep thinking and stroking my dick to images of her in my head every night.


    It baffled me that now, I rarely found any other women attractive. I mean, I¡¯d gone to numerous bars and clubs since returning. Sometimes for business. Sometimes to rx. And women were in abundance everywhere, but they never appealed to me.


    The only person I wanted was Renee. Fucking, sexy, blonde haired Renee!


    I sighed heavily, downing the rest of the whiskey and looking back at the portrait, I shook my head, before cing the empty ss on the table.


    I hated myself for falling in love with her so quickly, for giving up so soon-for being an asshole and also letting her go so easily.


    I should¡¯ve refused when she suddenly called the boat trip an end.


    I should¡¯ve insisted she stayed, and if she refused, I should¡¯ve just fucked her into oblivion till she agreed. But what did I do instead? I let her go immediately, with questions between us left unanswered.


    My dick was already standing upright; as the naughty thought of fucking Renee slipped in my mind and I let out a hiss, ruffling the strands of my gelled hair with my hands.


    The best time of my life hadsted for just three days, and if I could go back in time to relive that moment when she told me to turn the yacht around, I wouldn¡¯t hesitate to do it differently.


    In bed for breakfast and dinner, holding her soft skin in my arms and never letting go. Fuck! Those moments were priceless and precious, and I realized now more than ever what a terrible mistake I¡¯d made.


    It hurt that I¡¯d let her off so quickly.


    I¡¯d lost her. I¡¯d fallen passionately and blindly in love with this woman. Now I had to live knowing she had no fucking idea how I felt about her.


    I mean, why did I have to be such an ass? What did I even do wrong?


    The background checks I did on her? Yes, I tried to get some minor pieces of information about her. At the time, she was a random stranger I¡¯d met for a one or three-night sexcapade, right? But now, how could I exin she was starting to be the bane of my existence?


    My obsession! My little woman! My baby! My pet!


    What was she even doing now?


    Was she on her bed, touching herself and thinking of me? Was she beating herself up and regretting how we parted so quickly? Did she regret her leaving with only a kiss and, a nonchnt goodbye?


    Yes, some women in my past had emotionally scarred me. But with Renee¡­ with her, it was so fucking different.


    I froze instantly as I recalled something.


    Dipping my hand into my pocket, I brought out a random card. It was a photo of Renee.


    The first day I left Miami for New York, I¡¯d hired a detective to check up on Renee as I wanted to ensure that she had gotten home safely.


    He¡¯d gotten back to me with positive news and even sent a clear photo of her. With how I craved her, I had printed the picture so I could hold it in my hand. Hold it and stare at it till whenever.


    She was in a park with her friend Nicole, and a man who seemed to be in deep conversation with them.


    Rage toward the motherfucker standing next to Renee poured through me and with teeth wide open, he spoke, while  she listened duly.


    Her side profile was in view from where she stood, with her hair in a bun and her arms wrapped around herself. She looked so beautiful, that my heart ached all at once.


    The shrill sound of my phone¡¯s ringtone pierced through the air, quickly cutting off my thoughts.


    Bringing the device out, I stared at the screen, wanting to see who was calling, and the second the name shed, my eyes dimmed a bit.


    It was her.


    Why the fuck was this  ungrateful and uncouth human calling me?


    After all these years, the bitch wasn¡¯t getting the memo to leave me alone and it irritated me to no end.


    I watched as the phone rang, the device dancing in my hands,  and at first, I thought of answering and cutting the call short, but I didn¡¯t.


    She didn¡¯t deserve to know that I saw her calls, so I refused to pick up. She also didn¡¯t deserve any of my mental energy.


    When the phone finally stopped ringing, I exhaled, relieved. I moved to drop it in my pocket, but then it started to ring again.


    She was still calling.


    I kept staring at the screen, waiting for it to stop, and it felt like an eternity until it did.


    ¡°Finally¡­¡± I said, my fingers hovering over the green ept button.


    I was contemting doing something. Something that¡¯d cost me a lot and I¡¯d been thinking about it since I arrived in New York and stepped off the jet that¡¯d brought me back.


    Turning to face the portrait, I looked from it to my cell phone and then at the picture again. The back and forth went on for a few minutes before I made up my mind.


    Without thinking twice, I swiped at my phone, searching for the number of my PA. Natasha, in the call logs. When I found it, I dialed quickly.


    I took a deep breath, waiting for her to respond. This was it. There was no going back.


    Finally, I was pulling together the balls to make this call, and fuck if I wasn¡¯t happy it was happening. I¡¯d put it off for so long.


    For a moment, I didn¡¯t care if Renee wanted nothing to do with me.


    As far as I was concerned, she no longer had a say and I was going to get her. I always got my way. I always got what I wanted.


    I wanted Renee, and I was going to get her back. Fuck, giving her space!


    ¡°Hello, Mr. Robert?¡± The gentle tone of Natasha, my assistant, came over the phone. I sighed, relieved I¡¯de to a decision.


    ¡°Good day Natasha.¡± I curtly greeted, and she responded quite in kind.


    ¡°Good day, sir.¡±


    ¡°Have you sent me this week¡¯s schedule by email?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I have.¡±


    ¡°Good, good.¡± I mumbled so softly I wasn¡¯t sure if she heard me, but at the same time, I didn¡¯t care.


    Instead, I blurted out, dropping a bombshell.


    ¡°Now that that¡¯s settled, I want you to cancel all my physical appointments for the week and next.¡±


    ¡°Till?¡±


    ¡°I have no specific date as to when I¡¯m returning from my trip. I¡¯ll be leaving for Ondo tomorrow, so call the pilot and tell him to service my private jet and put the airstrip in order.¡± I informed her, and she answered immediately with no questions, ¡°Will do so, Mr. Robert.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Hanging up the cell phone, I breathed heavily, battling some internal debate as to whether I was doing the right thing.


    And yes I was doing the right thing. If Renee refused toe to me, then I would get her.


    A myriad of thoughts and ideas assailed my head, and with  a smirk on my lips, I walked to the wine cer in the room.


    Grabbing  another bottle of whiskey, I popped the cork open, and began to drink straight from it.


    Fuck yeah!

 Creepy Deliveries

    RENEE


    I shut the door blindly behind me, hands groping in the dim space as I desperately searched for the light switch.


    I was finally home. After a hectic day of scrubbing tables, serving dishes, and avoiding the hooded stares of leech-looking men, I was now in my home.


    The little apartment I shared with Nicole.


    Sighing, I tossed my handbag on the small couch and walked straight to the kitchen. I grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge and popped the can open, taking a deep sip.


    With my eyes closed and my thoughts racing, I allowed myself to ask the same question in my head for the umpteenth time since returning from my mini-vacation.


    How was Robert rke doing? What was he up to now? Did he miss me as much as I missed him? Did he think about me every night before bed? Did he even touch himself as he thought of me like I did as I thought of him?


    Every night since I left Miami, I¡¯d pleasured myself with sex toys or my fingers. With every orgasm that coursed through me, I imagined Robert plowing his dick inside me, whispering sweet nothings in my ear as I came undone.


    ¡°Shit!¡± I cursed, my eyes flying open, and I dropped the water bottle on the table closest to me.


    Frustrated, I raked my hands through my hair. I exhaled heavily, trying to get my head together.


    I needed to stop thinking about him. I needed to focus on getting my shit together and stop thinking about a random stranger who¡¯d probably already forgotten about me too.


    ¡®Are you for real? You¡¯re obsessed with a random stranger who gave you the best sex of your life? A stranger who bought you expensive parting gifts, despite everything you said to him? A random stranger whose number you still have hidden in your bag? Oh, be fucking honest with yourself, Renee.¡¯ My subconscious rattled in my mind and I tried rolling my eyes at her words, but I couldn¡¯t.


    It was all true, and no matter how I tried to forget Robert, it hurt so much.


    I¡¯d initiated the break-up of a rtionship I never even had. Who knows. Maybe if I¡¯d stayed with him on that boat, and toured through the sea, perhaps he would¡¯ve fallen in love with me the same way I fell for him.


    Perhaps I would¡¯ve had a happier ending and even-


    The shrill sound of my cell phone rm vibrated through me, jolting me out of my reverie and causing me to sigh as I looked at the wall clock.


    It was already 7:00 p. m., and Nicole hadn¡¯t returned.


    I doubted she was still working, but whatever she did was not my concern. However, it was important to me that she stay safe.


    Pulling myself up, I turned around the kitchen, my eyes darting around as I considered what I could eat for dinner. Perhaps some quick ramen noodles and white wine would suffice.


    I decided on stir fry pasta instead, and after rushing to the bedroom to change my clothes, I returned to the kitchen.


    I became preupied with making pasta frying the sauce, and even though I was exhausted by the time I was done, the aroma of my spicy meal filled the air, offering mefort.


    As the  small oven dinged while the meat cooked, I grabbed my phone and randomly went through my contacts, searching for nothing in particr.


    My eyes caught sight of Dn¡¯s number and I froze. An unprecedented feeling coursed through me.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Why the hell did I have his number still? I should¡¯ve deleted it the night I caught him cheating, but a foolish part of me knew why I still had the number.


    It had been too sudden. I kept waiting for him to call and apologize, but what did I get? Nothing, absolutely nothing.


    Dn showed no remorse. I fought back the tears, remembering everything we¡¯d shared and the future we¡¯d nned to build together.


    Our children. Our family. Our home.


    However, as I reflected on most of our conversations, I med myself for not recognizing the warning signs sooner.


    He continually diverted any conversations about family. Whenever I brought up our engagement or his getting me a ring, he shunned the conversation, iming it was too early to discuss such things.


    His avoidance had hurt back then, but now I could see he was trying to tell me something. A message I¡¯d finally received, but in the worst possible way.


    ¡°Ding!¡± The oven chimed again.


    Reducing its heat automatically, I gently brought out the freshly baked meat.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­¡± I hummed in satisfaction, ncing at my phone. I swiped my finger across the screen and deleted his number without thinking twice.


    It was time for me to move on.


    Dishing out my food and walking to the couch in the living room, I was just about to begin eating when the doorbell rang loudly.


    What the hell is that? I was about to curse out loud when I realized it could be Nicole.


    It was nearly 8:00 p. m. I dragged my feet sullenly toward the door, dropping my te on the table with a hiss.


    I opened the lock, and the second the door swung open, I opened my mouth to say something, thinking it was Nicole, only for my dropped jaw to close again.


    ¡°Good evening. A package for Miss Micheal?¡±


    ¡°Wait, what?¡± I blurted out, my gaze sweeping over the man in front of me.


    A wave of deja vu washed over me as I remembered the delivery man from Miami. I peered out of the rickety apartment¡¯s hallway to see if  neighbors were nearby, but the corridor was empty.


    Trying to maintain my calm, I asked, ¡°Are you looking for Miss Micheal or someone else? You must¡¯ve knocked on the wrong door and-¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s written right here. Fifteen-C is the apartment number.¡±


    That was us. The number was right on my door and the man looked at me, confident.


    ¡°What is it?¡± I asked, curious and scared at the same time.


    ¡°If you would just sign here.¡± He said, handing me a pen and paper and I quickly scribbled my name.


    Before I could blink, he bent down, tilting himself toward the left, and picked up a box I hadn¡¯t seen.


    My eyes widened when I saw the box had been tied up with colorful ribbons and he handed the package to me.


    ¡°I¡­ What¡¯s in here? Who sent this?¡± I stammered out the question, my lips quivering even as I spoke.


    Something in my head kept telling me that this was from Robert, but at the same time, I knew there was no way he would have sent me this.


    We¡¯d parted over a week or two now, and I was still to move on from our sexcapade, so why would he send me gifts?


    Maybe this was some prank, or Dn had probably bundled up whatever was left of my things in his apartment and decided to send them to me this way.


    That was how foolish he could be.


    ¡°Miss Micheal, are you okay?¡± The delivery man asked softly, stepping away from me. Though his question was full of concern, I could see that he wanted to take his leave.


    ¡°I¡¯m all right. I¡¯m fine.¡± I mumbled after him, asking, ¡°I¡­ Who sent it? You shouldn¡¯t¡­¡±


    It was toote. I could hear the delivery man¡¯s receding footsteps as he stomped down the stairs and vanished from the long winding corridor.


    What was in this box, and who had sent it to me?


    Hurrying back into the room, I hadn¡¯t even closed the door before I tore open the package, my curiosity getting the best of me. Within minutes I unraveled the ribbon, ripping the wrapping paper off. I expected to see a stockpile of my clothes, but I was wrong.


    Instead, I found a gold-ted preserved red rose bouquet. The heady scent assailed my nose immediately.


    What the hell was this? I wondered, but at the same time, I couldn¡¯t take my eyes off the lovely arrangement. Delving deeper, I noticed the envelope attached to the bouquet.


    It was a stark shining white envelope. My hands shook as I tore the sheet open, and an expensive-looking card fell out of my grasp.


    When I picked it up, I saw Robert¡¯s neat cursive writing.


    The card read:


    ¡®Renee, my lovely girl,


    I can imagine your expression when you read this, and I¡¯m sure you¡¯re wondering how I know your new address. Knowing it might annoy you, I can¡¯t go into too much detail, but I want you to know that I miss you so much. I¡¯m disappointed you never called me, even after I gave you my cell phone number, but that¡¯s okay. I know you need space, and I¡¯m giving it to you, but my patience is wearing thin. I¡¯ll stop here now, but know I¡¯m not finished yet. I¡¯m on my way to get you, and I¡¯m keeping an eye on you from afar.


    P. S. The roses smelled exactly like you, and I had them preserved. Please don¡¯t throw this small note away because it contains some vital information you might need sometime soon.


    With love, R.¡¯


    As I finished reading the creepy-as-fuck note, it fell from my hands. My chest thudded heavily.


    I thought about his words, and a shiver ran down my spine.


    I¡¯ming to get you.


    I¡¯m watching from afar.


    I¡¯m not finished with you yet.


    I stared at the rose bouquet and back at the card on the floor as I tried to control my raging emotions. I didn¡¯t know if I was angry, but my head couldn¡¯t settle.


    Was Robert in town? Had hee to get me, or was this a sinister game he was ying?


    Why choose toe now-weekster, as I was trying to move on and forget about him?


    Was he stalking me? Why was he doing this to me? We¡¯d parted ways for good, right? So why this?


    I-


    ¡°Renee! Someone could¡¯ve walked in here and stolen everything, and no one would¡¯ve known. What the hell are you¡­?¡±


    I turned my head, catching Nicole¡¯s gaze, and saw her walk to me. She must¡¯ve entered without my knowledge while I was still lost in my thoughts.


    When she saw me, her expression changed when she realized something was wrong.


    ¡°Babe!¡± She eximed, rushing to my side, ¡°Renee, what happened? Howe you¡¯re so pale?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I¡­ see¡­¡± I motioned, pointing to the rose bouquet and the card on the floor.


    ¡°Huh? Is this Ro¡­¡±


    The mere mention of his name churned bile in my stomach. Without saying anything to Nicole, I stood, appetite gone, and dashed to the bathroom to throw up.


    What the hell was going on? What did I get myself into?

 More Gifts?

    RENEE


    ¡°Have you considered what to do with the gifts?¡±


    My busy hands froze. I turned to face Nicole with a raised brow, dropping the hairbrush I held on the dressing table.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°You heard me, Renee. What ns do you have for the gifts? The flowers and the greeting card. Are you going to call him? You realize Robert is sending you these things, right?¡±


    ¡°I am aware.¡± I said, annoyed.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you call him? Remember you never thanked him for the ones he sent you in Miami? He was hurt because you never called.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know, I know! I called himst night.¡± I eximed a little too sharply as I continued, ¡°I dialed his number, the one I¡¯d been keeping, but it didn¡¯t go through. So I¡¯m confused, Nicole, and I¡¯m not sure what to do.¡±


    I returned my gaze to my best friend, expressing my concerns, and her brow furrowed. I could tell she was concerned about me.


    She wanted what was best for me, and I wanted to do the right thing too, but it was all tooplicated.


    ¡°The call didn¡¯t go through?¡± Nicole inquired, and I shook my head negatively.


    ¡°Do you think he¡¯s in the city?¡±


    I shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. Perhaps he¡¯s trying to mess with me. You saw from the card he misses me. He¡¯s probably doing all of this to stay in touch and-¡±


    ¡°In touch? He¡¯s doing that to keep in touch? What are you talking about, Renee? He wrote that he¡¯sing to get you in that same card. Did that sound like a man who only wants to keep in touch?¡± Nicole added sarcastically, ¡°What did you think he meant when he said his patience was running out? Girl, I think he¡¯s having some post-nut rity and is only now realizing it.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by post-nut rity?¡± I asked, folding my arms and leaning back on the dressing table as if I hadn¡¯t just been preparing to go to work earlier.


    Nicole gave me a smirk. ¡°Post-nut rity is when a man realizes what he¡¯s done after fucking a woman. Sorry, I¡¯m crude, but I think your hot daddy Robert, has been doing a little rethinking. I think you¡¯re going through it too. It¡¯s been weeks, but still, I know you miss him. It¡¯s evident in how you stare for hours at the portrait he gifted you. It¡¯s why you¡¯re always wearing the ne he bought you, and you haven¡¯t taken it off.¡±


    My hands instinctively went to my corbone, and a small smile stretched my lips as I caressed the shiny jewelry.


    Nicole was right. I missed him, and I¡¯d already acknowledged that. It was just¡­


    ¡°You yearn for him so much that you touch yourself every night when you think I¡¯m asleep, and I hear you screaming for Robert and¡­.¡±


    ¡°Nicole!¡± I blurted out, embarrassed. My cheeks burning red hot.


    Sheughed lightly and looked away with an amused smirk ying on her lips.


    After Iposed myself, I sighed. ¡°So what should I do? I have no idea if he¡¯s here in Ondo or if he¡¯s ying some prank on me and sending me these gifts because he knows where I live.¡±


    ¡°How did he even know where you¡­ oh.¡± Nicole trailed off, remembering why I¡¯d quickly cut ties with Robert.


    He¡¯d done some background checks on me, so of course, he knew where I lived.


    Besides, he was a billionaire with lots of instruments at his disposal, and he could do whatever he wanted. He could get whatever answer he needed.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know anymore, Renee.¡±


    ¡°Exactly! I should forget about this and get ready for work. I¡¯ve tried contacting him, but the line isn¡¯t going through, so I¡¯ll leave it at that. Maybe this is a sign.¡±


    ¡°And you don¡¯t think he¡¯lle for you?¡± Nicole asked.


    I just shrugged my shoulders for the umpteenth time that morning as I swiveled about, facing the dressing mirror. Dusting my face with some brown powder, I said, ¡°Let¡¯s get ready for work, Nicole. Time won¡¯t wait for us, you know.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm, if you say so.¡± She obliged and the bed creaked as she got up.


    Well, there goes that.


    ~~


    I wiped my brows and stretched as I dumped the used dishes in the sink, yawning.


    I was exhausted, my entire body ached, and my only relief was that  my work time was over.


    I¡¯d gotten my extra tip from the manager, and now all I had to do was pack the dishes, grab my bag, wave goodbye, and exit through the back.


    I continued to pack the dishes and leftovers, a small smile on my lips.


    However I froze when I felt something-or someone-staring at me.


    I could feel their eyes on my skin. Who was it?


    It was boring a hole through me and my hands trembled.


    I looked out the building¡¯s transparent ss walls scanning the busy street, but I didn¡¯t see anyone.


    Nothing looked suspicious. Everyone appeared to be going about their typical day, walking around as they worked for their daily bread.


    But even with everything appearing normal, I could still feel someone looking at me, and the stare was bing more and more intense.


    ¡°Ouch¡­¡± I cursed as my palms brushed against the sharp edges of the knives I was putting away. Looking down, I quickly arranged everything and walked back to the kitchen.


    My feet carried me as fast as they could. I stopped looking out the window. Instead, I focused on finishing my tasks and leaving the building as soon as possible.


    It was gettingte, and I needed to get home.


    ¡°Goodbye, Miranda. Goodbye, Sally.¡± I waved to the servers working the evening shift, and they waved back.


    Whistling away as I exited the restaurant, I had on a cheery face as I tried to forget about the eerie feeling of being watched.


    Walking through the busy road and whistling, the piercing ring of my cell phone had me faltering instantly.


    My eyes darting around the street, I then stared down at the device and saw a familiar number shing through.


    The number I¡¯d gotten rid of yesterday.


    Dn! He was calling me, and how did I know? Well, I¡¯d memorized his number back when we were dating, and he¡¯d been my emergency contact. He was my go-to person when I had trouble.


    Too bad he never had any solutions.


    I contemted picking up the call for a second but it suddenly stopped ringing.


    ¡°Good riddance! Why the heck is that fool calling-¡±


    Before I could finish my sentence, the phone vibrated in my hands. Staring down, I saw he was calling me again.


    ¡°What are you doing calling me, you moron?¡± I cursed rhetorically, my hands shaking. Clearing my throat, I straightened my shoulders.


    I was going to pick up, and give him a piece of my mind,  I was startled by a voice from behind.


    ¡°Good day, miss.¡±


    A youngdy, perhaps 18 or 19, waved at me with a smile.


    With blonde hair and green eyes, she had a nice striking feature, but that wasn¡¯t what intrigued me.


    Her eyes seemed to dart about like she was looking for something.


    Even though my phone was still ringing, Ipletely forgot about it. Instead, I faced this mysterious stranger on the busy streets and raised my brows in question.


    I opened my mouth to say something, but before I could, she spoke. ¡°Here. I was told to give you this.¡±


    Thedy held out what appeared to be a ck gift bag. Instead of handing it to me gently, she thrust it into my hands and curtly stated, ¡°That should exin it.¡±


    ¡°Wait? What do you mean? Who sent you? What exactly is this?¡± I asked, my lips quivering.


    Thedy took a few steps back, smirked, and pointed behind me. ¡°There. He was standing there earlier, and¡­¡±


    I didn¡¯t get the final details of what she was saying because I abruptly turned around to see who she was referring to but saw nothing.


    I turned back to face thedy and noticed I¡¯d been tricked. She¡¯d left.


    I desperately searched for her amongst the multitude of people strolling the busy street, but she¡¯d disappeared.


    ¡°What the¡­¡± I muttered, and the sound of my cell phone ringing again cut me out of my trance, but this time I was too distracted and angry to check who was calling though I highly doubted it was Dn.


    He rarely called more than twice, and even if he was the one calling, I was in no mood to talk, especially to him.


    My whole body trembled as I swiped the decline button on the screen and stared at the ck gift bag in my hands.


    There could only be one usible exnation for this, and it came in the form of a man who seemed to enjoy ying games with me.


    I vaguely remembered someone watching me all day at the restaurant, and the dots were starting to connect.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Robert was in the city. Nobody could convince me otherwise.


    He was having a fun time stalking and sending me gifts.


    He did miss me, and  likely ask me to meet him soon.


    But for now, he wanted to watch me from afar like some crazed stalker Shockingly, my thighs tingled crazily at the thought.


    ¡°Cab!¡± I called out, waving my hands, and soon enough, a taxi stopped in front of me.


    Gripping the gift bag tightly, without telling the driver where I was going, I opened the car¡¯s door and blurted out sharply, ¡°Just drive.¡±


    I needed to leave. I needed to go home, and I needed to see whatever was in this bag.


    I couldn¡¯t wait any longer.

 Pest…

    ROBERT


    Was I a creep? A weird stalker? An obsessed man in love with a woman who barely knew it?


    Per se, I wasn¡¯t necessarily a creep, nor was I weird, but I was stalking Renee, and I was madly obsessed with her too.


    As I watched her get into the cab, her eyes darting about in fright, my chest tightened.


    I didn¡¯t want her to be afraid of me, and I knew by now she¡¯d know it was me sending the gifts.


    If she were sharp enough, she¡¯d have recognized my cursive handwriting in the notes I sent to her, and with my R initials engraved at the bottom, I¡¯d surely given myself away.


    Even though I wanted to be mysterious, I decided to give her the benefit of the doubt, as I didn¡¯t want hershing out at me when we met again.


    Smirking, I closed my eyes briefly, my head falling back to the car¡¯s headrest as I thought about how she¡¯d looked today.


    She was so stunning in her waitress uniform, and my dick twitched remembering that.


    Luckily for me, the restaurant where she worked was lined with windows, affording me ample opportunity to stare longingly at her all day. She worked diligently, which I¡¯d noted, making me proud.


    She¡¯d packed her strawberry-blonde hair in a rough updo as she served the customers. Her lips stretched in a blindingly gorgeous smile, attracting many men to her.


    I saw how they subtly flirted with her, touching her inappropriately and in ways only I could. It took all the restraint I had in me not to march out from my tinted jeep and walk into the building.


    I would drag her out with me, even force her to hand in her resignation, and take her with me to only God knows where.


    ¡®Now you¡¯re thinking like a creep.¡¯ My subconscious chastised me, the ardent reminder making me curse abrasively.


    I wouldn¡¯t say I liked her job at all. Even though I knew she was working here to make ends meet and cater for her family, I had other ns for her.


    ¡°Knock, knock.¡±


    The pattering sound of someone knocking gently on my car window caused me to open my eyes, and I quickly wound the window down.


    ¡°Hello.¡± The young blonde woman said to me, a smile on her lips, and I instantly remembered her.


    She was thedy I¡¯d sent to give Renee the gifts, and I reciprocated her smile by chuckling slightly.


    ¡°Thank you so much¡­.¡± I began, my hands searching for my wallet, and when I found it at the back of my pocket, I quickly opened it and took out ten hundred dor bills.


    I handed it to her, and at first, she hesitated, refusing to take the money from me, her eyes widening in surprise.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°Take the money, Nia. It¡¯s my way of showing gratitude.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I didn¡¯t expect such a huge amount of money as a tip, sir.¡± She interrupted me, eyes twinkling while she finally stretched her hand and collected the bills. ¡°Thank you, sir. Thank you so much.¡± She said again, her hands trembling.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee. Enjoy your evening.¡± I muttered, and with a slight bow, she exited the front of my Jeep¡¯s view, leaving me alone with my internal thoughts.


    Winding up the window, I opened my mouth to speak to my driver, but then my cell phone rang.


    Without bothering to check the caller, since I was expecting a call from Mark, my assistant, here in Ondo, I grabbed the phone, swiped the answer button, and ced the cell to my ear.


    ¡°Hello.¡± A familiar feminine voice greeted me. Her soft, slimy voice filtered through the end of the device, and instantly I froze.


    Shit! Here we go again.


    ¡°Amanda?¡±


    ¡°Hello, Robert. Good evening to you, too.¡± She replied, amusement clear in her voice.


    ¡°What do you want, Amanda?¡± I asked sharply, my fingers drumming impatiently against my thigh, and she chuckled lightly in response.


    It was apparent she derived pleasure in tormenting me. After all these years, she couldn¡¯t let me go.


    The warrants and restraining orders I¡¯d gotten never deterred her, and every time I cut off ties with her, she magically reappeared like a pest.


    ¡°It appears you haven¡¯t changed, darling. I see you¡¯re still a very blunt man despite everything, and I find that very interesting.¡± Her sweetughter continued, this timeced with malice.


    ¡°Amanda.¡± I growled, anger bubbling as I tried to stay calm. I refused to let this woman upset me. ¡°How did you get my number?¡±


    ¡°Rx, Robert. I have my ways. Surely you know that.¡± She purred.


    God, her voice irritated me.


    She sounded so confident as if she was still close to me, and it irked me so badly.


    I hated this woman! I despised her with every fiber of my being. Despite how hard I¡¯d tried to get rid of her, she just wouldn¡¯t budge.


    She was a thorn in my flesh-a bothering nuisance. Memories assailed me, reminding me of everything I¡¯d gone through because of her, and my anger skyrocketed.


    ¡°What is it you want, Amanda? I won¡¯t ask again. I know you¡¯ve been trying to get through to me. You don¡¯t seem to be getting the memo that I don¡¯t want anything to do with you anymore? All these years, Amanda, I¡¯ve given you space. It would be best if you gave me that too. I don¡¯t want to get another restraining order because of-¡±


    ¡°I want to see you.¡± She blurted, cutting me off.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I know you¡¯re in Ondo. Are you going to visit D? Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s time you see your son and the mother who birthed him? What do you think about a family reunion? I know you¡¯re¡­.¡±


    Her words trailed off in my head, and my grip on my phone tightened as a chill coursed through me.


    How did she know I was in Ondo? I had no idea my son was in Ondo. I¡¯d have to save that investigation for another day.


    ¡°¡­He misses you, you know, and I do too. I know I¡¯ve made some terrible mistakes, but-¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve made some mistakes? You call what you did to me just a series of mistakes? You scarred me emotionally and physically, Amanda. It¡¯s funny how you transferred all your disgusting traits to your son. You-¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s also your son!¡±


    ¡°I know how you got my number, Amanda. And for the betterment of both of us, it¡¯d be best if you never contact me again. If you need anything, our alimony and child support is there to provide for you and your son. Have a nice day.¡±


    ¡°Ro-¡±


    I hung up before she could finish, throwing the cell phone on the car seat.


    Raking my hands through my hair and heaving slightly, I informed my driver. ¡°Drive me back to the hotel, and put a call through to Mark, my assistant. Tell him to cancel my schedule for tomorrow and the next day. I need some time to myself.¡±


    ¡°Okay, sir. I¡¯ll do just that.¡±


    As he started the ignition, I threw my head back to the headrest. As cool air filtered through the car vents, I let out a string of curses.


    My evening had just been effectively ruined!

 Uncertain Thoughts

    RENEE


    ¡°Girl, I¡¯ll be damned if this man doesn¡¯t love you. Just look at the gifts. Oh girl, I say you¡¯ve hit the jackpot with this one.¡±


    Staring mindlessly at the couple art notebook Robert gifted me and the lone tulip flower attached to the wrapped package, I didn¡¯t say a word as Nicole went on and on.


    Another cryptic note was attached to the presents, but I wasn¡¯t ready to read it.


    Instead, I stared nkly at everything sprawled out on the bed. I rubbed my forehead, unsure of what to do.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to say anything? Damn, look at this. So romantic and sensual. He imagined both of you when he bought this.¡± Nicole said, picking up the art book. ¡°The pictures are out of this world, though the gift is strange. Robert rke is very thoughtful. I¡¯ll give him that.¡±


    ¡°You think?¡± I mumbled, staring at the picture Nicole showed me, and my eyes zed over the sensual ck-and-white art.


    It was a drawing of a naked silhouetted man and woman in bed, tangled with the sheets.


    The man had his hands on the woman¡¯s bare thighs. If I were to describe the scene, the man was trying to get his hands into-


    ¡°Hey! Did you hear me?¡± Nicole¡¯s loud voice cut into my thoughts, and I shook my head vigorously.


    ¡°What is it? What did you ask me?¡±


    ¡°The note¡­¡± She began, picking up the card and handing it to me, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to read it and see what it says?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not ready to re-¡±


    ¡°Take it, and read it. Or else I¡¯ll be forced to do that on your behalf.¡± Nicole interjected, shoving the card into my palms. My shoulders dropped dejectedly as I took it.


    I smiled the second my eyes saw Robert¡¯s familiar cursive handwriting and I read the letter aloud so Nicole could hear what he¡¯d sent.


    He began the letter with a soothing romantic poem, and my heart doing a flip, Iughed when I got to the end of the letter.


    He was apologizing, yet again, for sending me gifts.


    It was like he was in my head, and he knew how the thought of him stalking me creeped me out, but here he was, begging for forgiveness.


    This man¡­


    ¡®¡­Check the back of the card. I left something there for you.¡¯


    This was the second tost sentence, preceding his signature R initial, alongside kiss emojis.


    Sharply, without waiting to think of what might be there, my eyes dropped in disappointment when I saw he¡¯d only written three numbers on the back-two, five, and six.


    ¡°What¡¯s there?¡± Nicole asked all too eagerly, her eyes lighting as she shifted toward where I was seated on the mattress.


    ¡°Some number or¡­?¡±All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°Numbers?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Oh, wow.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I questioned.


    She had a wicked glint in her eyes. Without saying a word, she stood up from the bed and walked to our shared mini wardrobe.


    ¡°What are you doing, Nicole?¡± I asked. But she said nothing and kept searching through the wardrobe.


    Finally, she stopped rummaging and turned around. She started walking toward me, gift bag in hand.


    It was the same gift Robert had given me some days ago.


    ¡°Guess what I¡¯m thinking?¡± Nicole asked, cutting through my thoughts.


    I rolled my eyes.


    ¡°I have no idea, Nicole. Why are you holding that gift bag? Is there something I should know?¡± I asked with raised brows, and she nodded excitedly.


    I didn¡¯t say another word. Instead, I watched as she scattered the gift bag contents on the bed, bringing out the first note he¡¯d given me since I arrived home in Ondo.


    ¡°Remember the letter he gave you yesterday? He hinted that you keep the cards because there¡¯s something vital about them, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes. I remember.¡± I agreed.


    Clearing her throat, Nicole continued, ¡°Well, I think he¡¯s talking about these numbers. See here¡­¡± She continued, turning the first note, and I spotted three different numbers.


    ¡°Huh? What does this mean? What is he trying to do?¡± I asked, confused. Nicole just smiled at me.


    ¡°You still don¡¯t get it, do you?¡± She asked and I shook my head no.


    I had no idea what she was hinting at.


    What did these numbers mean?


    ¡°You know a cell phone number contains ten different digits, right? He¡¯s sent six, so we have four unknown numbers left. Do you think he¡¯ll send the remaining numbers with gifts too? He did tell you to keep the cards. Do you think this could be the reason?¡± Nicole asked, her questions running through my head.


    Her suspicions were realistic.


    That was it. Or was there something more to these numbers?


    ¡°Oh jeez¡­ I¡¯m just so confused now, Nicole.¡± I sighed and added, ¡°Did I tell you that someone was watching me while I worked at the restaurant today?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Nicole. I could feel their stare drilling a hole in my skin.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, Renee! Well, I don¡¯t know what to say. He sends you these gifts but also stalks you.¡±


    ¡°He might not be the one stalking me, though. Even though I¡¯m convinced he¡¯s in the city, I don¡¯t know if he¡¯s the person watching me or not. Maybe it¡¯s the investigator he hired or something. Honestly, I¡¯m just baffled by this whole thing.¡±


    ¡°Calm down, girl.¡± Nicole said softly. Trying to calm my raging thoughts, she ced a hand on my hair, caressing it.


    ¡°I had to cut our yacht trip short because of this same issue, Nicole. This stalking, investigation thingy, and now he¡¯s doing it again. Why can¡¯t he call me, and then we talk things out? Why send me mysterious gifts? Worse still, why is he making it so difficult for me to forget him? The thing between us was supposed to be a one-night stand, not¡­.¡±


    ¡°Chill, Renee, chill. Rx. You¡¯re overthinking yourself and just whining now. Look¡­¡± Nicole started, clearing her throat at the same time. ¡°You say he could¡¯ve just called you, but at the same time, would you have answered if he did? If he¡¯d reached out to you a few days after you left Miami, would you have picked up?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t huh me Renee. Just answer.¡±


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t know. Maybe I would have, or¡­? Honestly, I wouldn¡¯t have picked it up. Cause I was still mad at him even though I missed him. Gosh.¡±


    ¡°You see. You¡¯re waffling again. Think straight, and get your shit together.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m trying my best to get my shit together here!¡± I blurted out harshly. ¡°I¡¯m trying my freaking best. I don¡¯t like the idea of him watching me from a distance, and I¡¯m still trying to be calm. So don¡¯t tell me to get my fucking shit together, ¡¯cause I¡¯m trying.¡±


    ¡°I know you are. Well, it does sound creepy, but at the same time, it¡¯s nice that he¡¯s making an effort. If Robert¡¯s in Ondo as you think he is¡­ Then all I can say is that man has it bad for you. I don¡¯t think this is some post-nut rity thing anymore, and age gap asides, I can bet he¡¯s obsessed with you. He doesn¡¯t live in Ondo, for God¡¯s sake, but he might be here cause of you. If this is not enough reason why you should calm down and get perspective, then I don¡¯t know what is.¡±


    ¡°But-¡± I began.


    ¡°I¡¯m not supporting his actions, but damn, I won¡¯t lie when I tell you that these mysterious expensive as fuck gifts are a huge turn-on for me. Oh, how I wish I were the one living this right now.¡±


    ¡°Trust me when I tell you that you would wish for something else if you were in my shoes.¡± I joked, and she justughed.


    ¡°Well, enough about Mr. R. Can we talk about something else, or should we call it a night? I¡¯m no longer hungry, and I could doze off any minute from now.¡±


    ¡°No, not really.¡± I mumbled, and taking that as a cue to get ready for bed, Nicole began to pack away the gifts.


    As I watched her arrange her bed, I remembered a certain gist that I¡¯d forgotten to tell her.


    ¡°Nicole.¡± I called out when she ced her head on the pillow and she turned to face me.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Can you believe that Dn tried calling me today?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Her droopy eyes flew open, and she sat upright instantly Her quick movement made me giggle.


    If there was one thing about my best friend, it was that she loved gossip, and she certainly had a mouth for it.


    ¡°Well, he called, but I didn¡¯t pick and¡­.¡±


    As I continued to narrate the rest of my day to Nicole, my mind kept wandering back to thoughts of Robert, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what he was up to.

 Lifetime Decisions

    ROBERT


    ¡°Excuse me, Mr. Bradley.¡± I raised a finger, stepping back from the estate manager I was talking to. I walked away, bringing the ringing phone to my ear.


    ¡°Any news, Natasha?¡± I queried sharply, not liking that her call interrupted a critical discussion.


    ¡°Good day to you, sir.¡±


    ¡°Good day, Natasha. Now get on with why you called. Is there anything important you want to tell me?¡± I interjected sharply, not wanting any of my time wasted. Luckily, she got the hint.


    ¡°No, not at all, sir. I wanted to let you know that I got your mailst night, and I don¡¯t understand what you asked me to do. I mean I-¡±


    ¡°What don¡¯t you understand?¡±


    ¡°You said I should¡­ As you said, aren¡¯t youing back to New York in a week?¡±


    Ignoring herst question, I said, ¡°I told you to transfer most of the work files to my mail. Compile the list of everything I left, and send them to me. I¡¯ll attend to them here and work at the Ondo office until further notice. Now, do you understand?¡±


    ¡°What? I mean, sir. You just-¡±


    ¡°No questions, Natasha. Do as I asked.¡± I retorted bluntly, cutting her off and sighing. ¡°I know I said my trip here would be temporary, but things have changed. The reason why I came to Ondo might take more time than I intended, and I don¡¯t n on changing it.¡± I finished and could hear her mumbles rom the other side of the phone, but she said nothing out loud.


    She couldn¡¯t counter my order, and I had the final say.


    ¡°Okay, sir. I¡¯ll do just that.¡± She replied politely.


    ¡°Inform the office in Ondo of my arrival. Mark should have done this, but they¡¯re better acquainted with you, so do it.¡±


    ¡°Okay, sir. I will. Any more requests?¡± She asked. I was silent for a moment, different thoughts running inside my head as I contemted my  next move.


    ¡°Sir?¡± Natasha called when I didn¡¯t respond.


    Clearing my throat, I said, ¡°Schedule a zoom meeting with Mr. Thompson, my overhead manager, tonight. Also, tell Sally, head of HR, to contact me tomorrow in case I forget.¡±


    ¡°Okay, sir. Noted.¡±


    ¡°Good. That¡¯s all for now. Should I need anything else, I¡¯ll let you know. Have a good day.¡± I finished and hung up.


    Dropping the phone in my pocket and raking my hands through my thick dark strands, I turned around from the balcony of the empty room I was standing in, only to see the realtor from earlier.


    ¡°Are you done, sir?¡± The bald, potbellied man asked, and I nodded.


    ¡°Okay, then. Should we continue the tour?¡± He asked, and I replied with a curt yes.


    The mansion was arge three-story building with a wide array of intertwined rooms and suites.


    In addition to the living areas and bathrooms, the whole ce was equipped with bedrooms, dining rooms, two kitchens, and enoughundry facilities.


    A second level included two offices on each floor, and two additional levels below that held a pool, a gymnasium, and indoor tennis courts.


    After the upstairs tour, I followed the realtor downstairs to the basement, where he began exining what each area contained and how they were used.


    We encountered a corridor with a long, winding, lit-up hallway as we continued the tour. I wouldn¡¯t have expected something like this here.


    We were in the basement. But then, the mansion was so big, and I liked it already.


    Stopping before a sizeable brown marble door, the agent pushed it open to reveal a full-sized ballroom filled with empty tables, clean couches, chairs, and even a grand piano.


    The ceilings were high enough that I had no idea where the space ended.


    One thing was for certain though. This ce was perfect!


    I loved the mini hall, and if it had the kind of room to suit what I had in mind, I¡¯d be getting the-


    ¡°This is the guest hall, which has a separate entrance for visitors. There¡¯s an underwater pool, and you see that door?¡± The realtor asked, pointing over at a dark door almost hidden in the corner. ¡°That door leads to a fully furnished room, including a private bathroom and tub. It also has a built-in bookshelf, electric firece, and a TV with a well-equipped home theater.¡±


    ¡°Cool.¡± I murmured, and the realtor smiled at me.


    ¡°Would you like to take a look at the attached room? Or we can leave it if it doesn¡¯t interest you that much.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go see it.¡± I said; the corner of my eyes glinting mischievously.


    I had no idea why this room was calling to me, but I had to follow my gut instincts.


    Hand shooting out as we approached the door, the realtor opened the room. As he kept on talking, my mind tuned him out.


    Seeing the dark room made my blood run hot, illicit images instantly filling my head.


    The room was spacious, with a vast mahogany four-poster bed screaming lust and mystery.


    With this bed, I could imagine setting up some tools to use on Renee. There would be cuffs and restraints, perfect tools to keep a woman under control and give her pleasure. I knew that this room woulde in handy during my stay here.


    The things I¡¯d do to Renee¡­ I¡¯d fuck her on this bed while she gripped the sheets or the headboard.


    Damn! My stomach twisted into exciting knots, and I felt desire building inside me.


    I would tie her up, and with the dark aura in this environment, I¡¯d fuck her into sin.


    I¡¯d give her pleasure she never knew existed-what she craved the most.


    I¡¯d make her body writhe beneath me, my hands on her strawberry-blonde curls while I plowed from behind and she¡¯d beg and cry for release.


    With a smile, I continued picturing the sceneing into my head.


    Fuck! I just had to get my hands on her and make these fantasiese true.


    I didn¡¯t care if she was still angry about our spat in Miami. I¡¯d given her enough space, and she must¡¯ve gotten my messages from the gifts.


    She knew I wasing to get her, and buying this house was one step closer to making that dreame true.


    ¡°Sir? Sir, are you okay? Did you hear me?¡± The realtor asked, snapping my attention back to the present. I shook my head.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ you were saying?¡± I asked, my eyes blinking as I stared at the curious-looking agent.


    ¡°I was saying this is the only ce in the building without an rm system, which might be a disadvantage. This particr room was built for privacy. You may not like it, but if you want, we could install a¡­.¡±


    Even more perfect! This ce was the pure definition of solitude, and I could do whatever I wanted to Renee without anyone noticing.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Not that I had ns of bringing anyone else.


    This property was being acquired because of her, and it¡¯d only make sense if she were the only one to grace it.


    ¡°No! Don¡¯t install anything.¡± I said sharply.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t install an rm system. It¡¯s perfect this way. I love the privacy.¡± I eximed, my eyes twinkling as I added, ¡°How much is the house again?¡±


    ¡°Fifteen million dors. But it¡¯s open for negotiation and-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take it.¡± I announced, not waiting for the man to finish.


    I could feel his surprised stare, but I didn¡¯t look at him. Instead, my eyes wandered around the room, a feeling of calmness filling me.


    I¡¯d just bought my first property in Ondo, and my excitement was palpable.


    I was making a lifetime decision to buy this house, with a lurking secret at the back of my mind that my ex-wife and son could be in this city. But I didn¡¯t care.


    Renee and being closer to her were the only things that mattered to me and the thought of finally getting her spurred me on.


    ¡°Should I arrange the documents, and then we can schedule the minor repairs needed to get the ce in order.¡±


    ¡°Do everything you can. I need to be in this mansion soon.¡± I ordered, and the realtor gave me his approval while I smiled with satisfaction.


    Just one more thing to do, and I¡¯d be closer to getting my girl.

 Cat & Mouse Game

    RENEE


    Robert sent me gifts again.


    This time the delivery included a sizable flower bouquet, an expensive Richart Chocte box, and another note.


    In the note, he wrote that he missed me. And as Nicole had predicted, he sent the remaining numbers.


    To be precise, four numbers were written on the back of the card he¡¯d sent, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder again what this man was up to.


    If he was in Ondo, why hadn¡¯t he approached me yet?


    He knew my location. He knew where I worked. So why this cat-and-mouse game?


    Was he afraid I¡¯dsh out at him? Is that why he¡¯d chosen to watch me from afar or taunt me like this?


    Yes! I¡¯dsh out at him for being a creep and watching me like he had some power over me. He¡¯d also turned me into an emotional jumble. But then¡­


    ¡°Oh, Christ.¡± I mumbled, cing my hands on my stomach as I continued to think.


    I was more than confused, and as Iy t on my bed, eyes staring nkly at the ceiling, I knew I had to talk to him.


    I had to call him and talk to him and-


    ¡®No! Don¡¯t! It¡¯s not time yet.¡¯


    ¡°Then when should I do it?¡± I muttered out loud, not caring that the bedroom was eerily quiet and Nicole was fast asleep on her bed.


    ¡°When should I call him? Tell me!¡± I questioned my subconscious, frustrated. ¡°Nicole told me to call him today since I have all the numbers, but I couldn¡¯t. And now¡­¡± I trailed off, waiting for the voice in my head to get the memo and say something. But she remained quiet.


    ¡°Great. Just great.¡± I scoffed, my hands pressing my tummy so hard I whimpered in pain.


    Of course, when I could use the solid advice of my intuition, it was quiet, leaving me helpless.


    As much as I wanted to see him and hear his deep husky voice that warmed my insides, I knew that if we met again, I¡¯d blindly fall for him, and there¡¯d be no going back.


    My feelings for him grew daily, despite how I desperately wanted to forget him.


    Like a moth to a me, I was drawn to him in ways I couldn¡¯t control.


    The conflicted thoughts inside me were overwhelming, and closing my eyes, I imagined what would happen when Robert and I finally linked up again.


    Would he sweep me off my feet like he¡¯d done the first time? Or would he be formal and try to right the wrongs he¡¯dmitted in Miami? Or better still, would he pull me into his arms the second he saw me and kiss me? He¡¯d then fuck me in his jeep or whatever vehicle he¡¯d-


    ¡°Jeez¡­¡± I blurted out, my whole body vibrating, a tingle shimmying down my legs.


    Illicit images of Robert fucking me filled my head. I let out a hiss, but I still didn¡¯t open my eyes.


    Thinking about everything he could do to me sent wild shivers down my spine and thighs. I couldn¡¯t hold myself in anymore.


    My fingers trailed from my stomach to my waist until finally it¡­ ¡°Oh¡­¡± I moaned as I came into contact with my already wet pussy, and my lips dropped open in a gasp.


    I opened my eyes briefly, checking if Nicole was still asleep. Luckily for me, I hadn¡¯t disturbed her.


    My eyes closed, and sinful pleasures overtaking my senses, I gave my clit a soft flick, and I moaned again.


    I kept stroking myself, imagining Robert¡¯s hands. His fingers were ying with my clit, while I turned into a mess of puddly goo in his arms.


    Or maybe his thick cock would slide between my slick walls, rubbing against me and¡­


    ¡°Fuck¡­¡± I breathed, my body trembling beneath the covers. My hands moved faster, fingers working harder inside my pussy.


    Thinking back to our first time, I could remember every detail of that fateful day.


    How he¡¯d started by stroking my clit, and then he¡¯d asked me to strip for him.


    I¡¯d touched myself while he watched, and then soon after, he¡¯d taken control, tearing my panties off and finger fucking me until I squirted on his face.


    ¡°God¡­¡± I sighed, pausing to remove my boxer shorts and panties until I waspletely naked underneath the sheets.


    I tried to be discreet, so Nicole wouldn¡¯t wake up and catch me touching myself. But with my orgasm approaching rapidly, my movements grew louder, more urgent, and desperate as I couldn¡¯t wait to get myself off the edge.


    Unable to take it anymore, as I had no idea why my orgasm kept receding, I let out a whimper and swiftly inserted a finger into my pussy, my whole body bucking at the pration.


    I inserted another, and a sob broke out of my lips as I began to hump myself like a crazed woman.


    I could still see Robert in my head. This time, he stared back at me with a mischievous glint, licking his lips.


    He was underneath me now, and I saw the dark strands of his hair as he looked up.


    His face was directly on my clit, and he licked his lips again before cing his tongue on my flowery wet bud, then¡­


    I saw stars as a muffled loud gasp escaped my lips. I could feel iting. I was going toe.


    The sweet sensation was building in the depths of my stomach, and as I increased the pace of my moving fingers, I repeatedly moaned, waiting for pleasure to ovee me.


    However, my impending orgasm abruptly stopped, and my eyes flew open in shock.


    What the¡­? My fingers stopped moving inside my pussy and letting out a staggered breath, I instantlyprehended what had happened to me.


    I was going toe, but then I felt nothing.


    Not the most pleasant feeling, but I wouldn¡¯t give up easily. At least not yet.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    My fingers still in ce, I stroked myself again, closing my eyes. I tried to picture Robert doing his thing to my body, but he wasn¡¯t in my head again.


    ¡°Robert¡­ where are you?¡± I whimpered shamelessly, begging him to appear in the fragments of my memories, but he wasn¡¯t forting.


    It was like he¡¯d vanished into thin air, and I couldn¡¯t reach him anymore.


    Frustrated, I withdrew my fingers and, grabbing my pillow, I buried my face into the soft material, groaning and grunting.


    This was happening for the first time, but why?


    Thesest few days, I kept myself busy at night, masturbating to images of Robert fucking me, so why¡¯d tonight choose to be different?


    ¡®Because you need the real deal!¡¯ The voice in my head chimed brilliantly, and I raised my brow.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡®You need Robert fucking you himself, not just those raunchy memories in your head.¡¯


    ¡°What the hell are you saying?¡± I half yelled, quickly shutting myself up. I nced at Nicole, but she was still far gone in her blissful slumber.


    ¡®Maybe you should call him, who knows. Talk your shit out, and get fucked.¡¯ My inner voice said again, this time not minding the crude remark and my mouth dropped open.


    I couldn¡¯t say a thing because I was yet toe out of this freaking haze of sexual frustration.


    Why was my inner voice misleading me? One minute it advised me to forget about Robert and move on with my life. And the next? It was telling me to get fucked.


    Now, I was convinced something was wrong with me.


    My brain was malfunctioning. It was the only reasonable exnation that came to me. I hissed loudly, my legs shaking in frustration.


    My hands went to my hair and ruffled the strands haphazardly. I began to reflect on what my subconscious may be trying to tell me.


    Should I call Robert or not? And would I go through with calling him if I decidedter?


    I had my answer already, and at the same time, a sneaky n formed in my mind.


    If Robert stopped sending gifts, I¡¯d swallow my pride and call him.


    If he continued sending the gifts, we might as well keep ying this cat-and-mouse game.


    However, despite my resolve, I had an intuition about what would happen and how to handle the situation.


    The thought had me shuddering, but I had to wait and see how things yed out.

 Settling In…

    ROBERT


    ¡°Good morning, Mr. rke.¡±


    As I entered the premises, the staff and employees at my Ondo office greeted me enthusiastically.


    I respectfully responded as I went from the reception to my office, my hands waving with a broad smile.


    The office set aside for me was roomy and precisely as I liked it.


    Simr to my office in New York, this one was opulent, with minimalist art hanging from the walls, arge desk with aptop, and a few other items I needed.


    The office featured a spare bathroom and changing area, and as I looked around, I reminded myself to ask Mark to fill the wardrobe with some new, crisp clothes.


    I turned my head away from the changing area and turned to look at the office¡¯s beautiful ss doors and balcony. My lips spread into a grin.


    I always loved to hang out on balconies, because I cherished them so much.


    Perhaps in thete afternoon while sipping alcohol and gazing at a cityscape or structure. I treasured the activity because it gave me sce.


    I promptly got to work and began looking through the files that were put out for me because I couldn¡¯t stand idle any longer.


    I¡¯d spent so much time in Ondo doing nothing, and now I had to work.


    A knock came on the door a few minutester, and I looked up to see Mark, my Ondo assistant, walk in.


    He was dressed in his standard attire, which I¡¯de to associate with him, but instead of dark jeans, he was wearing a pair of ck suit trousers and a white button-down shirt tucked in neatly.


    Mark walked toward me, his dark brown hairbed back into a neat part of his head, and with an unreadable expression on his face, he ced a cup of coffee on the desk.


    It smelled so good that I couldn¡¯t help but sniff and inhale deeply before taking a small sip while smiling at him.


    ¡°Many thanks, Mark. This smells and tastes fantastic.¡±All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°Thank you very much, sir. I apologize for not greeting you when you arrived earlier. I was busy organizing some files and-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ve already acquainted myself with everyone and settled in, as you can see.¡± I said sharply, waving my hands at him.


    ¡°Sir, yes.¡± He said with a curt nod, smiling back at me, the tense expression on his face gone.


    He¡¯d probably been afraid I¡¯d chastise him, but I wasn¡¯t that kind of boss, and I had better things to do than scold an employee for failing to perform minor duties.


    ¡°Do you have any calls or mail for me?¡± I asked, and he quickly nodded, his brow furrowed, and I watched him swipe at the tab he¡¯d brought with him.


    ¡°Did you change your personal number to your professional number?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I did.¡± I replied with a nod when he asked.


    I had one personal phone number now, the same one I¡¯d written to Renee in the notes. The one I waited for her call day after day.


    Today would be two days since I¡¯d sent her thest gift. I smirked when I remembered that she wouldn¡¯t be getting presents from me any longer.


    Last night, I¡¯d paid the deliverypany in charge of wrapping my baby¡¯s presents and told him that his services would no longer be required.


    She should¡¯ve gotten the message, and now I¡¯d have to await her phone call patiently.


    If she didn¡¯t call, I¡¯d do things the old-fashioned way and either contact her friend Nicole or meet her myself.


    For the time being, I was done pursuing Renee. Now I was waiting for her toe to me.


    ¡°All right, sir. Well, Elite estate management sent you an email. Mr. Bradley called to inform you that the mansion is in order. He said the minor repairs have been made and attached is a¡­¡± Mark cut me from my wandering thoughts. He paused, his brows squinting as he rechecked the mail before continuing, ¡°Attached is a PDF file consisting of expenses incurred. It amounts to a total of-¡±


    ¡°Pay him off. He attached the necessary ount information?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Good, pay him.¡±


    ¡°Okay, sir.¡±


    ¡°Anything else?¡± I asked.


    Mark nodded, his hands scrolling through the tab before saying, ¡°You got a call from an unknown number and some texts. Should I read them out or¡­¡±


    ¡°Can you give me the tablet?¡± I blurted sharply, my eyes dimming because I knew who it was.


    Handing the tablet to me, I scrolled through the texts. Three of them from Amanda informed me that she wanted to see me and that I call her as soon as possible so we could schedule a ¨C ¡°A FAMILY MEETING WITH YOUR SON TOO. HE MISSES YOU.¡±


    The words were highlighted in all caps, and my jaw gritted in anger. As I read through the text, my grip on therge device tightened, but I forced myself to rx.


    I deleted every single message from the tablet after I finished reading them. I was tempted to block the number, but I wasn¡¯t that petty, so I left it alone.


    Maybe I¡¯ll ept her invitation to a meeting and talk to her onest time.


    ¡®But there¡¯s no such thing as ast time with Amanda.¡¯ I sighed as my subconscious reminded me of this fact.


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep the tablet with me, Mark. You¡¯re free to go.¡±


    Mark bowed, obeying my orders, but I called out just before he finally left.


    ¡°Lest I forget¡­.¡± I began, and he froze in his steps.


    ¡°Meet my stylist and get some clothes to stock up the wardrobe in the office changing room.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir. I¡¯ll do just that.¡± He replied, and I mumbled my thanks, watching him pad away.


    When the door clicked, I dropped the pad on my desk. I grabbed the hot coffee, took arge sip, and sighed contently at its taste, my worries dissipating slowly.


    Rxing in my leather seat, my left hand going to my forehead, rubbing my temples, I tried to forget about Amanda and everything else guing me.


    I kept telling myself she wasn¡¯t worth my time, not after everything she¡¯d done to me in the past.

 The Phone Call

    RENEE


    ¡°I¡¯ming.¡± I yelled as I dashed to the door to see who was knocking.


    ¡°Are you certain it wasn¡¯ting from the other apartment?¡± Nicole yelled behind me as I rushed to the sitting room, but I ignored her.


    I was eager to find out who the person was. Something told me Robert had finally sent me some gifts.


    With a smile, I dashed to the front door, taking hold of the knob and twisting it open to find¡­ nobody!


    ¡°Huh?¡± I muttered, my head poking into the corridor when I noticed someone standing at my neighbor¡¯s door.


    The knock had note from here, as Nicole had suggested and my shoulders slumped.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Hello¡­¡± The blonde-haired man staring back at me waved, and I waved back, mumbling some inaudible greeting as I gently shut our door.


    ¡°Not again¡­¡± I humped, disappointment filling me, and I didn¡¯t like it.


    It had been four days since Robert sent me a gift, and I was going insane.


    I rushed every time there was a knock on my door, full of anticipation. But I always returned with disappointment.


    Looking around the small living room, I stared at the first art portrait he¡¯d gifted me, and my heart skipped a beat.


    Caressing the R initial diamond ne he¡¯d given me again, my mood instantly shifted from excited to solemn.


    I began to walk to the bedroom, a hiss escaping my lips, knowing Nicole would be waiting for me.


    ¡°Who was that?¡± She asked as soon as I entered the room, her face lighting up as she looked up from the book she was reading and turned to face me.


    However, when she noticed my mood, her smile faded to a frown, and she abruptly rose from the bed.


    ¡°Renee? What is it?¡±  She asked, approaching me and touching my shoulder. She pulled me to my side of the bed, and we plopped our asses down.


    ¡°Speak to me. Who was knocking on the door?¡±


    ¡°Not our door. It was some random dude who came to visit Mrs. ra.¡± I whispered.


    Nicole sighed. ¡°I warned you. I knew it wasn¡¯t from our end, but you rushed to open it without paying attention to what I said. You thought it was Robert¡¯s delivery guy, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Why would you say that?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Renee, get off it. We haven¡¯t talked much about Robert in thest few days, but I know you miss him. After all, it¡¯s been three or four days since hest sent you a gift, right?¡±


    ¡°Four days, yeah.¡± I responded sadly.


    ¡°I know. I¡¯ve been keeping an eye on you. You¡¯ve been a shadow of yourself since you woke up today. You go to check the door at every opportunity as if expecting someone, even though we both know you rarely get visitors.¡±


    My shoulders slumped, as I listened to Nicole go on and on.


    ¡°Do you know I had an inkling that he¡¯d stop sending me gifts?¡± I asked after she finished speaking.


    ¡°Wow, really?¡±


    ¡°Yes. The other night I was touch¡­¡± I trailed off, blushing as I realized what I was about to tell Nicole. I quickly diverted, ¡°Thest time he sent me gifts with the numbers, I had a feeling he was going to stop. I told myself that if he did stop, I¡¯d call him, but if he kept sending the gifts, we¡¯d keep ying his game.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Nicole questioned with a raised brow, and I just shrugged.


    ¡°Also, I don¡¯t feel anyone watching me at the restaurant these days. He seems to have vanished into thin air. The way he vanished when¡­¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Nothing Nicole. I¡¯m just perplexed.¡±


    ¡°Wow! Since he¡¯s yet to send a gift, why don¡¯t you call him? You¡¯ve already resolved within yourself to do so.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I just can¡¯t. I mean, I want to, but¡­ I don¡¯t know what¡¯s wrong with me. I¡¯m more than worried about him, not just because he¡¯s stopped sending gifts, but because I¡¯m afraid something bad happened to him and¡­.¡±


    ¡°And what? You call him and get your facts straight. You have his phone number. Go ahead and dial him.¡±


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°Here¡­ This is the first number he gave you.¡± Nicole interjected, her hand outstretched with a rumpled note in her hand.


    It was the first letter he¡¯d written to me, where he¡¯d attached his number in full.


    ¡°How did you get that so quickly, and where-¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not the issue here. Call him.¡± Nicole interrupted me again, pushing the paper into my hand. She raised her brows and urged me to go on.


    ¡°I¡¯ve tried calling this number, but it¡¯s not going through. I doubt if it will work now.¡±


    ¡°Just try.¡± She persisted. Sighing, I did as she said.


    The first attempt went into voicemail, and the second¡­ The server said the number was invalid, and I showed Nicole.


    ¡°I told you. The number¡¯s not going through.¡± I said with a roll of my eyes.


    Nicole smiled gently, ¡°Well, we still have another number, don¡¯t we?¡±


    ¡°The numbers from the gifts?¡± I asked, already knowing what she was talking about. She nodded.


    We quickly searched the drawers where the notes were and picked them up. Nicole collected the cards and began saying the numbers one after the other while I typed away on my phone.


    ¡°Is itplete?¡± She asked when she was done calling the digits out loud, and I nodded, shing my phone screen at her.


    ¡°Good. Now hit the dial button.¡±


    ¡°Not so fast, Nicole.¡± I mumbled, my hands shaking as my heart beat heavily in my chest.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°What if the call goes to voicemail again? Or what if this is not a real number? Or what if-?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be silly, woman. Call him first, and we¡¯ll figure out the next step.¡±


    I wish I were as confident as Nicole now, and her look reflected the opposite of how I felt.


    What would I do if this call went through and Robert picked up the call?


    ¡®You won¡¯t know until you dial the number, Renee.¡¯ The voice in my head whispered all too suddenly, appearing at the right time.


    ¡°Alright then. Here we go.¡± I grumbled, then pressed the dial button and put the phone on loudspeaker, so Nicole could hear whatever response I received.


    The first ring went by loudly, and no one answered.


    ¡°Do I need to call the number again?¡± I asked her, but she didn¡¯t respond. Instead, she took matters into her own hands and swiped the call button.


    The phone rang again, but no one answered.


    ¡°Oh, shit.¡± I groaned, already giving up when the ringtone died.


    ¡°I suppose Robert was ying a prank on me. This is the correct number, but he isn¡¯t picking up. Or is it not his? He told me to keep the notes for the clues. So, why is this happening? Or did we dial the wrong digits?¡±


    ¡°Calm down, girl. He¡¯s probably doing something or sleeping. Let¡¯s redial and see what happens.¡±


    I started to shake my head no, but Nicole wouldn¡¯t take no for an answer and leaned forward again, pressing the dial button.


    The phone began to ring loudly, and it was about the fourth ring when she said to me, a pout forming on her lips. ¡°You should cut it since no one¡¯s answering. I¡¯m sorry, Renee. You can try tomorrow.¡±


    I just waved her off with a shaky smile after she apologized.


    However, the line went through as I was about to hang up and I almost dropped the phone in shock.


    I looked at Nicole, and she looked at me in surprise. We both stared at the phone in my hand.


    ¡°Nicole¡­¡± I was at a loss for words as I whispered, but before I could finish, a very familiar voice resonated through the phone speakers, making me jump in surprise.


    ¡°Hello¡­¡±


    A gasp escaped me. My lips parted wide at hearing his voice after all these days, and my entire body trembled.


    I tried to speak, but my tongue felt heavy, my throat thick, and my mouth dry.


    ¡°Hello. Can you hear me?¡± His voice came back.


    I silently cleared my throat and managed to choke out, ¡°Rob¡­ Robert.¡±


    From the other end, I could hear him chuckle softly. ¡°Hello, baby girl.¡± He said, his deep voice sending pleasurable shivers through my body. ¡°I¡¯ve been expecting your call¡­¡±

 The Reconciliation

    ROBERT


    My smile widened when I heard Renee cough on the other end of the phone.


    Of course, I¡¯d affected her. She was surprised to hear my voice.


    Damn! She¡¯d called. My n had worked, and she¡¯d sumbed to the urge to check in on me via phone just like I¡¯d nned.


    My whole day was made with just her voice.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    I¡¯d been busy earlier, ncing through myptop, when my phone had vibrated with an iing call.


    At first, I¡¯d been unsure who the number belonged to, and knowing how I was avoiding Amanda¡¯s call, I¡¯d been hesitant to heed the call.


    But after the second attempt, my subconscious urged me to answer. I swiped the answer button and froze for a second when I heard her minty sultry voice.


    ¡®Hello¡­¡¯ was followed by a gasp and murmurs from the background, and it clicked immediately.


    Renee called. She¡¯d finally called, and my heart lifted with a broad smile appearing on my face.


    Fuck! This woman! She still had me wrapped around her finger even all these days. It¡¯d been almost two or three weeks since I heard from herst, and now her voice brought so much warmth to my chest.


    God, I missed her. From the sound of her voice to the feel of her body on mine, I fucking missed everything!


    As I waited for her to say something, I began to sift through the conversations I¡¯d imagined in my head for when she finally called or we spoke.


    ¡°Is that really you, Robert?¡± She asked again, her voice trembling, and I could imagine her hands shaking.


    ¡°It¡¯s me, baby girl. Did you miss me?¡± I asked, all too abruptly, and cursed inwardly as the question flew out of my mouth.


    I wanted to take my time. I would ask her how she was faring first and other pertinent questions, but now¡­


    ¡°Are you¡­ are you here? Are you in Ondo? I¡­¡± I rolled my eyes as she stuttered, effectively ignoring the question I¡¯d just asked.


    So typical of her! To jump right into such questions. But it didn¡¯t surprise me because I was expecting it.


    This, and many other questions she¡¯d ask wouldn¡¯t surprise me because I knew how inquisitive my baby girl was.


    ¡°Renee, calm down¡­¡± I trailed off, softly chuckling, but I must have said the wrong words because she wasshing out at me the next thing I knew.


    ¡°I¡¯m not fucking rxing! Why should I when you¡¯ve been stalking me? You¡¯ve been sending me gifts and watching from across the street like a creep. Then you abruptly stopped. You didn¡¯t send any gifts, and I began to worry about you, thinking something had happened to you. Worse, I¡¯d even stopped feeling your stares at my workce, dammit! For God¡¯s sake, you knew where I worked, and I couldn¡¯t even concentrate because-¡±


    ¡°Renee!¡± I called out sharply, my voice harsh but still gentle as I continued, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for causing you concern and acting like a creep. I¡¯m sorry for everything, and I¡¯ll apologize properly when the timees, but don¡¯t you think it¡¯s too soon for you tosh out? This is our first conversation in days. Will you let your rage cloud your judgment? Aren¡¯t you going to appreciate that I left my business in New York, abandoning so many other things to see you? Why did I fly to Ondo four days after returning from Miami? I couldn¡¯t take my mind off you. You never called, you never thanked me for the parting gifts I sent you, and despite telling myself over and over that I should forget you and not give you an hour of my time, I still came to you¡­¡±


    I paused my breath, trying to take in the air slowly.


    I wasn¡¯t angry per se, but seeing everything I¡¯d been through because of Renee made me defensive when sheshed out.


    Yes, I knew and wholeheartedly agreed I was being a creep and stalked her. But I had my reasons.


    I continued, coughing and keeping my cool when it was clear she had nothing to say. ¡°Please, Renee, calm down. Let¡¯s talk things out like mature adults, alright? I genuinely care about you and know you feel the same way about me. I¡¯m making so many sacrifices for you, so I only ask that you chill out and be reasonable. Just listen to what I have to say, and I¡¯ll do the same for you.¡± Finishing sharply, I exhaled in relief.


    The silence that followed felt heavy, but I hoped she¡¯d eventually understand.


    Waiting for her response as the seconds passed, she surprised me by replying calmly, ¡°You¡¯re right, Robert. I¡¯m being a bit foolish and-¡±


    ¡°No, you¡¯re not foolish. I understand where you¡¯reing from, and you aren¡¯t foolish. Not at all.¡± I interrupted her, and she sighed heavily from the other end.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Robert.¡± She began, her voice soft and barely a whisper as she asked again, ¡°How have you been?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been doing well. Except for images of a certain strawberry blonde beauty running through my head every second.¡± I replied honestly, with a silly grin.


    ¡°Oh, Robert.¡± She chuckled lightly, and I joined in.


    ¡°I¡¯ve missed you so much. I don¡¯t think you understand, love. I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about you, so I had toe to Ondo. That¡¯s why I sent you those gifts, hoping that you¡¯d forgive me by the time we finally saw each other again. However, I can tell you still have a grudge.¡±


    ¡°No, not at all. I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m at a loss for words, Robert. But I miss you. I miss my sweet Daddy and¡­¡± She trailed off and burst outughing, albeit embarrassed, I could tell.


    It was the ¡®Daddy¡¯ conversation effect.


    ¡°I knew you¡¯d miss your Daddy. It¡¯s why I came to you. Did you enjoy the gifts?¡±


    ¡°Like? I loved them. They were fantastic. I¡¯m not sure why you keep sending me such extravagant gifts, but it was so thoughtful of you. I especially liked the choctes, and what was the name again?¡± She paused to remember before blurting out, ¡°A Richart chocte box. It tasted great. I enjoyed it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d you did.¡± I replied and added inwardly, ¡®I¡¯m going to get you so many more, my girl. So many more delicious things. I¡¯m going to spoil you. Just wait and see.¡¯


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for not thanking you for the first gifts earlier. I was just¡­ I¡¯m not sure if confused is the right word. I was angry as well. But I loved them all. The portrait, ne, and flowers were all stunning. Many thanks, Robert.¡±


    ¡°Do you mean Daddy?¡± I quickly corrected her, and she burst outughing. ¡°Do you have the ne on, or¡­¡±


    ¡°I wear it every day. It¡¯s on my neck as we speak.¡± She softly interjected, and my heart tightened.


    I desperately wanted to ask for a picture, but I decided to wait until I saw her again, when I would have plenty of opportunities to caress her skin and touch the diamond jewelry.


    The thought had me smirking, and I imagined kissing the pendant jewelry when I fucked her missionary style and-


    ¡°Hello, Robert. Are you there?¡± Her warm voice came through the phone speakers. Blinking twice, I snapped myself out of my raunchy reverie.


    ¡°Yes, love.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ you were quiet, and I was wondering if you have anything more to say. I¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, baby girl¡­ You have no idea how much more I want to say to you.¡±


    ¡°Huh!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure if this is too soon, but I¡¯d like to see you. It¡¯s already Friday, and the weekend is almost here. Can we meet on Sunday evening?¡±


    ¡°Okay. Where and when?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll meet you at your-¡±


    ¡°No!¡±


    My brows furrowed as she abruptly denied me. I wanted to ask her why she was objecting, but I waited for her to say something first.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± She began after a whole, ¡°I¡¯m still not used to you knowing so much about me. You even know where I live, but I don¡¯t think you shoulde to pick me up.¡±


    I wouldn¡¯t say I liked where this was going, but I kept telling myself I needed to be gentle with her.


    ¡®Go easy on her, Robert. Just go easy.¡¯ My subconscious chimed in, and I agreed.


    We were making progress, and she was flowing with the conversion, which indicated she wanted to be with me, so this was a win.


    If she wanted to have her say, then I would let her.


    ¡°So, what do you propose? You no longer want us to meet on Sunday?¡±


    ¡°I do. Remember, I just asked you when and where?¡±


    ¡°Yes. So, what do you want?¡±


    ¡°Send me the address. I¡¯lle meet you.¡±


    ¡°Seriously?¡± I inquired, surprised. She responded with a firm ¡®yes.¡¯


    ¡°All right. I don¡¯t like the idea, but I¡¯ll do what you say.¡±


    ¡°Thank you very much, Robert.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you want, Angel.¡± Iplimented her, and she softly giggled on the other end.


    ¡°I can hardly wait to see you, Renee.¡± I said genuinely.


    ¡°Same here, Robert.¡±


    With a mischievous grin, I boldly said, ¡°Another thing¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I know we¡¯re trying to take things slow and get to know each other better on this uing date, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s true.¡±


    ¡°However¡­ When youe, don¡¯t dress formally for me.¡± I said, clearing my throat.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Dress sensually. Wear something daring that fits my sweet girl¡¯s personality. I¡¯m sure you can help me with that, right?¡± I inquired, and she initially remained silent.


    I could hear some murmurs again, a gasp from the other end, before she said, ¡°Alright, Daddy. Yes, I understand.¡±


    There was a flirty undertone in the way she spoke, and it sent blood shooting to my groin.


    ¡°That¡¯s my girl,¡± I mumbled before bidding my farewell and extending my greetings to her friend, Nicole.


    ¡°Goodbye, and I¡¯ll see you soon.¡± She replied, and my heart soared. I hung up the phone, staring at the screen.


    It took a few moments for me to snap out of my giddy state and recall some of the things Renee had said.


    She adored the gifts. She liked the flowers and agreed to dress sensuously for me on our first date.


    If this wasn¡¯t a dreame true, I no longer knew what it was.


    It was perplexing how she just switched up and apologized to me.


    Now though, the situation was giving me a kinky vibe.


    My baby girl. My pet. Obeying her daddy duly.


    ¡°Haha¡­¡± I chuckled as I started scrolling through my phone, nning to call Mark and have him book a suitable reservation for me.


    I¡¯d nned to go somewhere earlier, but after this phone call and the rush of happiness coursing through me, I decided to up my antics and give my girl everything she deserved and more.


    It was a simple dinner date. Well, I would make it elegant, superb, and ssy in the city¡¯s best restaurant.


    Anything for my sweet girl.

 The Date

    RENEE


    ¡°I appreciate the change, ma¡¯am.¡± As I stepped out of the cab, the driver expressed his gratitude, and I smiled at him.


    My heeled feet were on the ground, and I straightened my hair sideways, brushing a speck of invisible dust off my shoulders.


    The taxi sped away, leaving me alone, and I began to take in my surroundings, staring at the grandiose restaurant Robert invited me to.


    Looking around, I noticed the grand, quiet street, with everything looking like it belonged in some magazine.


    The buildings surrounding the restaurant were tall and imposing, and although it was a business area, it appeared to be anything but.


    This ce was serene and lovely, and all I could think was-this ce belonged to the elite.


    I¡¯d googled the restaurant beforeing here, and the second Robert had sent me the address, I¡¯d been blown away by the review I¡¯d read and the added knowledge that it was a 5-star restaurant and the best of its kind in the city.


    As usual, Nicole was astounded and tempted to look up their food and drink menu, but I talked her out of it.


    There was no way I could bear it if I heard the prices. A shiver ran down my spine just thinking about it.


    I knew Robert was ridiculously wealthy, but I hadn¡¯t gotten used to that fact yet.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    I took a shaky step, then another, until I was walking toward the gates of the posh building, and as soon as I told the security guard who I was here to meet, he opened therge steel door barricade for me.


    Walking past arrays of sleek, expensive-as-fuck cars, I tried to guess which one belonged to Robert, but I failed woefully.


    I was standing in front of the swanky building¡¯s sizeable transparent ss doors now, and my shoulders dropped significantly.


    I clutched my small purse tightly as my nerves began to fray a bit.


    With my face downcast, I went over my dress again, assuring myself that I looked good, and that Robert would like the outfit.


    I was dressed in a strapless, floor-length red gown with a slit that reached up to my right thigh. The dress was designed withce patches etched at the rims and edges of the clothing. Even though it was made of in material, some intricate flower designs were on some parts of the body-con gown.


    I wore ck high heels with silver sparkles that matched my earrings and ne.


    My makeup was bold and flirty, and the bright red lipstick on my lips added to my sexiness. My hair was curled into waves and fell across my bare neck and corbones.


    I dragged my face up and smiled shakily, knowing I looked beautiful-all thanks to Nicole-but I was shy and practically trembling inside.


    After all these days, I was finally seeing him.


    After all of my confusion and mental battles, I was finally doing this and it felt like I was about to meet a stranger.


    ¡®Renee, get a grip on yourself.¡¯ Internally, I warned myself, my frightening thoughts clouding my judgment.


    A cool breeze blew across me, and I shivered, rubbing my neatly manicured red-painted fingers across my body. I began to search through my small purse, intending to call Robert.


    As I reached for my phone, a text appeared on my screen, and as I clicked away, a small smile appeared as I saw that the message was from Robert.


    Robert: Someone informed me of your arrival, and one of the restaurant staff would be there in a minute to pick you up. I could havee on my own, but I wouldn¡¯t have been able to control myself when I saw you, so this is preferable.


    I started typing, intent on replying to him, a blush rising on my cheeks at his words, already knowing what he meant.


    ¡°Hello, ma¡¯am.¡± A voice interrupted my thoughts.


    It was the restaurant staff. A young man dressed smartly in a tailor-made white and ck uniform.


    I¡¯d been engrossed with my phone and had no idea when he¡¯d stepped out of the ss doors. But that didn¡¯t matter.


    The warm smile on his face made me feel at ease, and I nodded back.


    ¡°Miss Renee, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Wee to The Palms restaurant, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± I replied sharply, stepping toward him. He extended his right hand, which he¡¯d sped behind him, that I hadn¡¯t noticed.


    He was holding a single red rose and a ck notecard. Handing me both, I took them, my mouth open, ready to question him.


    ¡°Please ept this. Mr. rke, your date, instructed me to give them to you.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± I trailed off, ncing at the card while inhaling the fresh rose. It smelled so lovely and fresh. ¡°Mmmm¡­¡± I sniffed, my eyes reading the note but my confusion waspounded when I noticed that the gold-inscribed sentence on the card was in French or was it Spanish?


    ¡°What exactly is¡­¡± I began to speak, but the young man was already leading me inside the restaurant.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go in, ma¡¯am.¡± He said gently, his hand on one side of my back.


    We walked silently, my hands fiddling with my clutch and the lone rose flower, and when we got inside the main restaurant, I was blown away by what I saw.


    This was my first visit to such an expensive establishment, and oh damn!


    The ce was enchanting. That was the perfect word to describe the room. The decor was exquisite, with gleaming chandeliers lighting the structure and soothing piano music filling the air.


    I could see couples eating and dining at their respective tables, and they were clearly having a good time.


    Why wouldn¡¯t they? I thought to myself.


    Everything about this ce screamed elegance and wealth. Everyone clearly having the time of their lives.


    My eyes scanned the tables as I looked for Robert, but I couldn¡¯t find him anywhere and I was beginning to be nervous.


    ¡°Hey, where are you taking me? Where is Mr. rke?¡± I asked, nervous.


    The young man said, ¡°We¡¯re going to the VIP section, miss. There¡­¡± He pointed and added, ¡°Mr. rke is already waiting for you.¡±


    I followed his pointed hands, which stretched toward the farther end of the building¡­ a ce with dark-themed undertones, with a stationed metal barricade. My eyes looked over the area, and that¡¯s when I saw him.


    He stood waiting for me with a warm smile, and my breath stopped for a minute.


    Fuck! This man was handsome.


    He stood in a ck dinner suit with dark hair styled perfectly. Our gazes met, and his gorgeous blue eyes made my heart race.


    The way he looked at me made me want to melt into a puddle of goo, and my thighs watered, but I kept my cool.


    How could I have thought I¡¯d ever forget this man? What made me think I could just let him go like that? Why on Earth had I even pushed him away?


    This man. My Daddy. The epitome of male masculinity and ethereal gorgeousness.


    Even for someone his age, he took my breath away and made my chest tighten unexpectedly.


    ¡°My beautiful Renee¡­¡±


    As I approached the reserved table, his smooth, low, and sexy voice cut through my thoughts, and I blinked twice.


    ¡°Hello, Robert.¡± I smiled shyly, my trembling nerves subsiding, a blush rising on my cheeks. The makeup would undoubtedly do an excellent job of covering the pink patches on my face, but then¡­


    ¡°You look stunning.¡± Heplimented, and taking my free hand in his, he slowly lifted it to his lips, kissing my knuckles. ¡°Fuck!¡± He closed his eyes. His nose scrunched briefly as if inhaling my scent.


    ¡°Fuck formality. Renee, I¡¯ve missed you. Every fucking inch of you¡­¡± He said it abruptly, and before I could respond, he tugged my hand, causing me to stumble.


    ¡°Robert!¡± I gasped, but he was already steadying me and pulling me into a much-needed hug, sending waves of pleasure and warmth through me.


    We embraced for a few minutes before he finally pulled away, and his eyes wandered to my dress. I saw his gaze darken before he wiped the look off his face and then he looked behind me.


    ¡°I appreciate you bringing my woman.¡± Robert said, handing the young man several folded bills of high denomination.


    My woman. His woman.


    I grinned like a fool as he handed the young man a small bundle of 50-dor bills, and even though I was tempted to say something about the considerable tip, I remained silent.


    Robert had the cash, and damned if the young man wasn¡¯t lucky tonight.


    I worked at a top-notch restaurant, and though not quite as expensive as this, no customer had ever given me a tip over 100 dors.


    ¡°Thank you, sir, and I hope you have a pleasant evening. The designated waitress will be with you shortly.¡± The young man said, and he began to walk away from our table, leaving only Robert and me.


    ¡°So, baby girl, what do you want first tonight?¡± He asked, his hand sliding down my waist and gripping as he led me to the seat opposite his. He leaned closer from behind.


    When his lips brushed against my bare skin, my breath seized, and I closed my eyes, waiting in anticipation.


    ¡°Please take a seat, Renee.¡± He said, his hand leaving my waist and gently caressing my pendant jewelry as he reached my neck. ¡°The ne looks so much more exquisite on you than I¡¯d imagined.¡±


    ¡°Thank you¡­ Thank you¡­¡± I stammered as I sat down embarrassingly, and his light chuckle filled the room.


    ¡°We¡¯re taking things slow, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, just like I want.¡± I responded curtly, watching him take his seat and smirking. He winked and said, ¡°Then we¡¯ll start with appetizers, or should we just skip to dessert?¡± He asked, and I flushed.


    Instinctively I remembered the first dessert I¡¯d had on his yacht and coughing, I smirked back, ¡°Sure. Mr. Robert rke, whatever you say. You¡¯re the one in charge here.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Very formal indeed.¡± Heughed and reached across the table to grab my hand.


    He kissed my soft skin and held my hand, he then added, ¡°We will start with appetizers, and note that I am in charge here and everywhere. Is that understood?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Daddy. It is.¡± I replied. We smiled warmly at each other.


    He turned to call a waitperson, as the designated server hadn¡¯t arrived, and I continued looking around.


    Oh well¡­ This enchanting night was just getting started.

 Love Confessions

    ROBERT


    Hourster, I was sitting next to my girl, and damn if the sight wasn¡¯t spectacr!


    Renee was stunning.


    I couldn¡¯t take my eyes off her since she walked into the restaurant, her dainty frame wrapped in the sexy dress she was wearing.


    It¡¯d felt like years since I¡¯d seen her, not just weeks, and now I just wanted her glued to me.


    To every damned part of me, including my skin and soul. Both the bad and good. Absolutely everything.


    What was this woman doing to me?


    My body vibrated heavily as her smile shone brightly across the dimly lit building, her eyes glinting as she ate.


    I was already filled with desire and lust for her, but I needed to calm down. We were taking things slow.


    So slow, we¡¯d spent the entire warm evening just talking and engaging in a healthy conversation, trying to get to know each other better.


    Thankfully, the age thing was no longer an issue, and she¡¯d told me she wasn¡¯t bothered about it. She liked me and wanted this rtionship to work out.


    ¡®It is  already working.¡¯ My subconscious whispered, and all I did in response was bob my head once.


    She¡¯d asked me about business, what I did for a living, and a few other questions, to which I¡¯d dutifully replied.


    However, I was surprised and relieved when she didn¡¯t inquire about my personal life. I wasn¡¯t ready to tell her about Amanda or that I had a rebellious son who resembled his mother. Or even worse.


    She didn¡¯t ask the most important questions for someone who wanted to know so much about me, and oh well¡­ Maybe because I hadn¡¯t asked about hers.


    I didn¡¯t need to know because I could get the information on a silver tter, but I didn¡¯t want to know how many men my woman had been with all these years.


    I wouldn¡¯t have reacted well to that information, so it was better this way.


    ¡°¡­ Robert, the steak is excellent, and the red wine¡­ Mmmm¡­¡± As she sipped her wine, she hummed, her red lips gently pressed together at the edge of the ss.


    Her throat bobbed sexily, and I swallowed hard to keep myselfposed and calm.


    Taking her soft, manicured fingers in my palms, I brought her hand to my lips and gently kissed her knuckles. ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re enjoying your meal. Enjoying everything.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am. I¡¯ve almost finished everything.¡± She giggled. her voice was almost whisper-like when she spoke. She looked up from the table, and our gazes caught.


    As the warm glow of the lit-up room shone on her skin, the atmosphere became electric and charged, and her breathing became shallower and a little loud.


    I gently ran my thumb over the top of her wrist, and her breathing hitched as she turned to face the table.


    ¡°Renee, I-¡±


    ¡°So, Robert.¡± She started after a moment, ¡°How long do you intend to stay here in Ondo?¡±


    ¡°Huh!¡± I eximed sharply, taken aback by the question, and blinked a few times before responding.


    ¡°I¡¯ll stay as long as you want me to, Renee. You¡¯re aware I¡¯m here because of you. As I told you, I have no ns to leave anytime soon¡­¡± I trailed off, the remaining words dying on my lips as I restrained myself from saying anything else.


    How would she react when I told her I¡¯d bought a mansion on the city¡¯s outskirts?


    A mansion I intended to show her soon.


    I grinned but restrained myself from smiling further so she didn¡¯t notice and bombard me with questions.


    ¡°I¡¯m at a loss for words, Robert. Hearing you repeat it¡­ You came here solely for me, and you¡¯re staying despite your hectic work schedule and¡­ I just¡­¡± Something in my chest shook as she paused, suddenly quiet.


    Something was bothering my girl.


    I could tell by how her eyes darted around the VIP lounge, and her freed left hand yed with the fork she was holding.


    ¡°What is it, love?¡± I asked, brushing my hands over her palm, my chest tightened as I waited for her to say something, and thankfully she did.


    ¡°I¡­ I know I said I wanted this rtionship¡­.¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t misunderstand me¡­.¡± She cut in sharply, gentlyughing as hershes fluttered. ¡°I do want it. It¡¯s just that I¡¯m still getting over a breakup, and I don¡¯t think you know about it. I haven¡¯t told you, and even during our question-and-answer session, you never asked, and I didn¡¯t say a thing, but I feel like you should know¡­.¡±


    The rest of her words got lost in my thoughts.


    Who shattered her heart? Who dared to hurt her?


    She appeared so frail. She was wary of a new rtionship due to the breakup.


    Whoever this person was, he must have done a number on her.


    I began to wonder if her ex-boyfriend was the young man in the picture of Renee at the park that my investigator had sent me a few weeks ago.


    I opened my mouth to ask her, licking my chapped lips, but I kept the question to myself.


    ¡°¡­ I went to Miami to forget about him. Nicole encouraged me to have some fun, and guess who got to meet you?¡±


    Her light chuckle made my insides churn sweetly but didn¡¯t remove my anger.


    My heart was filled with rage and fury as I wondered who this motherfucker was.


    The jerk who¡¯d broken my woman¡¯s heart.


    In the first ce, he wasn¡¯t supposed to be with her. He was unworthy of her. He wasn¡¯t the right man for her.


    I clenched my fists so tight I almost drew blood as I thought about her getting hurt.


    ¡°Hello, Robert¡­ You¡¯re saying nothing.¡± She called my attention after some time, waving her left hand in front of my face, and I let out a pained hiss.


    ¡°Who is this guy? What¡¯s his name?¡± I blurted out.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°You heard me. Who is he, Renee?¡± I asked again, more gently this time, and bringing her hands to my lips I softly kissed her knuckles.


    ¡°Whatever you want to do to him, Robert, I¡¯m against it.¡± She chuckled abruptly. ¡°I¡¯ve cut all ties with him. Rx. I just wanted to let you know so perhaps you¡¯ll understand why I want us to take things slowly. Despite our insane attraction and heightened sexualpatibility, I don¡¯t want to rush this. This is my first romantic rtionship since¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be concerned about anything, love. I¡¯ll respect your wishes, and I¡¯m not going anywhere.¡± I said quickly, brushing her thumb and looking into her eyes, ¡°Be assured of that.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± She exhaled loudly as if she¡¯d been holding her breath the entire time, and I gently caressed her palm.


    I wish I could mirror her expression of relief because she¡¯d let out what was bothering her.


    I also wished I could tell her about Amanda and the horrible things I¡¯d gone through in the past, but I couldn¡¯t.


    I would tell her everything soon, but not now. I¡¯ll spill my guts at a better time and in a much morefortable setting.


    I didn¡¯t want anything to ruin this lovely evening.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± Renee called out, and I stared at her lovely face, expecting her to speak, which she did.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother looking into him. You have a determined expression, and I don¡¯t want to know why. I can confirm that I haven¡¯t spoken to or seen him since the day we split up. I¡¯mpletely yours.¡±


    I¡¯mpletely yours. This affirmation yed over and over in my head, and I smiled deeply.


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re all mine.¡± I affirmed to her and myself and gently squeezed her hand.


    ¡°Damn Renee¡­ I¡¯m going to fucking treat you so well.¡± I cursed, frantically rubbing her palms and my eyes boring deep into hers. ¡°I¡¯m going to spoil you and give you everything you deserve. I¡¯m sorry you had to go through so much before meeting me, and even though it¡¯s selfish to say this, I¡¯m d it brought us together, and I¡¯ll always be by your side. I promise that whatever happens, as long as we¡¯re together, we will never lose each other.¡±


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± Her hands trembled in my grasp as she stared at me with imploring eyes, and my chest clenched again.


    This tightening in my chest took me back to my past. M¡­ my young days when I¡¯d confessed my heart to a woman. A woman I¡¯d cherished, loved, and envisioned my future with-but what had she done? She¡¯d stomped all over my heart and shredded it into pieces.


    Damnit, I was feeling like a teenager all over again. I was scared to admit something to Renee, but the consequences be damned.


    This would be the first time I¡¯d say these words in thest fifteen years, but it would be worth it. I knew it.


    However, slow we were taking this, I couldn¡¯t hold back this thought anymore, so I said.


    ¡°This may be too soon, Renee, but I¡¯ve fallen in love with you in the short period we¡¯ve been together.¡±


    She gasped when I stopped talking, her eyes widening, but I wasn¡¯t finished yet.


    ¡°I know it¡¯s sudden, but I can¡¯t hold it in anymore. That¡¯s why I came to get you, Renee. That¡¯s why I did all those things because I can¡¯t get my mind off you. This unbearable ache in my chest¡­ it¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve felt this way. I¡¯m taking things as ites. I love you, Renee, and I¡¯m d you¡¯re all mine.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ Rob¡­¡± She trailed off, and I let out a painful chuckle.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to respond, okay? We¡¯re still taking things moderately. I just needed to get it off my chest.¡± I muttered sharply, pulling my chair closer to hers until our thighs brushed. I began to caress her hair.


    I scrutinized her face closely for any hints of pain, sadness, or fear, none of which I found, and a wave of relief coursed through me.


    ¡°Okay.¡± She finally spoke, her voice wavering.


    We stared at each other in silence.


    Until I felt something inside me start bubbling up, boiling, boiling, boiling-and then I leaned toward her, taking her into my arms.


    Burying my face in her hair, I breathed deeply.


    ¡°Renee, Renee¡­¡± I murmured as I inhaled her scent.


    It had a floral redolence, abination of roses, peaches, and fresh air.


    ¡°Thank you¡­ for giving me another chance and for epting my invitation. I¡¯m relieved to have gotten some things off my chest, and¡­¡±This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    My breathing becamebored as I felt her arms wrap around my broad shoulders and pull me closer.


    ¡°You make me feel safe, Robert. What else could I ever want? Everything happened so quickly, yes, but I¡¯m happy. I¡¯m always happy when I¡¯m with you, and I¡¯m sorry I put this off for so long. I still regret that yacht argument to this day, but I¡¯m d you didn¡¯t give up on me.¡± Her soft voice murmured in my ears.


    I held her tighter as we embraced, nuzzling my nose against her hair.


    The air was bing charged, and I felt blood shoot to my groin.


    ¡°God, I need you, Renee. I¡¯ve missed the feel of your naked skin against mine.¡±


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± She gasped, pushing me off her arms, and I grinned darkly.


    ¡°Fuck minor formalities. Are you horny?¡± I asked bluntly, and sheughed. ¡°Robert, we¡¯re still having dinner and¡­.¡±


    ¡°Your tes are already empty¡­¡± I emphasized, my eyes darting toward the nearly empty table, and looking back at her, I added, ¡°I want to fuck you so bad. You have no idea how long I¡¯ve wanted it. These past few weeks have been hell for me, and I don¡¯t think you understand. Moreso, I want you writhing beneath me while I plow your insides and¡­¡±


    ¡°Robert!¡± She eximed loudly, her hands shooting out as she sped them over my mouth, and I burst outughing.


    ¡°Someone could hear us and¡­¡± She trailed off, her cheeks turning pink, and I shrugged, although she was right.


    I could see some nearby customers staring at our table, and I knew they must¡¯ve heard what I¡¯d said, but I didn¡¯t care.


    Crude Robert was back. Her Daddy was back.


    I shook my head, wanting her to take her hands off my lips, and she got the message quickly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t say anything out loud again. I¡¯m already embarrassed as it is.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind. I want to fuck you tonight, and I¡¯m confident you¡¯ll allow me to.¡± I winked.


    ¡°What the hell, Robert!¡± She eximed again, and I chuckled as I began to wave for the waiter.


    Although I¡¯d settled the bill in advance when the reservation was made, I wanted to give a tip before I left. I intended to leave soon because the earlier, the better for both of us.


    It would be a long night, and I couldn¡¯t afford to waste any more time.

 A Night Of Passion

    RENEE


    My hands dug deeper into Robert¡¯s dark strands. My eyes closed, a whimper escaping my lips as our tongues melded.


    Damn! I missed him.


    ¡°Baby girl¡­¡± I felt Robert¡¯s hands at the back of my gown, fumbling with the zipper. He murmured in between our joined lips, his breathing erratic like mine.


    Before I realized what was happening, he¡¯d ripped off my dress with a rough tug, the material quickly pooling at my waistline before falling to the floor.


    I stood half naked in front of him, my bare skin on disy, shivering in pleasure, and a chuckle escaped my lips as I imagined his reaction when he saw the sexy red lingerie I¡¯d worn tonight.


    The smile on my lips widened as I remembered the minutes before we¡¯d gotten into his hotel suite, and my thighs tingled in anticipation of what was toe.


    From his flirtatious innuendos, crude words, and subtle affectionate touches beneath our restaurant table, I remembered how horny Robert had made me feel before sweetly lead me out of the building to a Mercedes Benz waiting for us.


    The pricey posh ride had brought us here, to the hotel where he was staying for the time being, as he¡¯d told me.


    I had an idea he wanted to add something to that statement, but I didn¡¯t question him further when he stopped talking.


    I would¡¯ve loved to explore his suite and marvel at the intricate andvish decorations, but that would have to wait for another time.


    Despite all of this, Robert had made me feel safe and loved as usual through the breezy evening, and now we were going further than I¡¯d originally nned.


    He was going to fuck me hard and long tonight¡­ I could already tell, and who was I to say no?


    It had taken all of his restraint not to fuck me in the back of the car that¡¯d brought us to the hotel, and now that we were in this vast room, he wasn¡¯t wasting any time getting down to business.


    Mycy panties were already soaked, and I couldn¡¯t wait for the moment he¡¯d run his fingers over my pussy and¡­


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± Robert called out, dragging me away from my thoughts to the present moment.


    Whimpering, I responded, biting back a moan.


    ¡°How I wish you have a glimmer of what I¡¯m going to do to you tonight?¡± He teased softly.


    ¡°You can tell me¡­¡± I mumbled between raunchy breathing and a hiss.


    ¡°You have to wait and see, baby girl.¡± He said, his dark blue gaze boring into mine, smirking in a way that made him look even more handsome than he already was.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    I felt hisrge hands cupping my bra and then squeezing my breasts as he finished that statement.


    ¡°Damn, woman.¡± He groaned, his hands still on my bra, and he began to push me slowly backward.


    He kissed me again, and I had no idea he¡¯d cornered me to the king-sized bed until the back of my legs hit the footboard, and I staggered a little.


    ¡°Rob¡­ Robert¡­¡± I squealed, my hands going to his shoulders to steady myself, but instead of holding me still, he pushed me off his arms, and I fell back t on the mattress with a gasp.


    Robert was still standing, his massive frame towering over me, and I smirked as he slowly removed his ck suit and tie, leaving his in white shirt on.


    I saw his eyes twinkle as he stepped toward me. His dark blue orbs roaming all over my body too.


    He growled hungrily as the dim blue and white light in the room highlighted my half-naked skin and curves.


    He gave me a satisfied look tinged with desire, and then he took another step toward the bed. I raised my brows.


    What was he going to do? What did he want to do? I questioned myself internally, my gaze following him.


    He straightened the rope-like material by lifting the tie he was still holding, and I began to ask, ¡°What are you¡­?¡±


    He didn¡¯t let me finish the sentence. Climbing on the bed in seconds, his knees dipped into the soft foam, and he roughly dragged my hands up.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I trailed off, wanting to argue but realizing it was toote.


    The fabric knots were already wrapped around my wrists, and it was so tight I couldn¡¯t move a bone.


    ¡°Robert? What does this mean?¡± I asked again, this time with a giggle. My skin was flushed, and he didn¡¯t respond.


    Walking away from the side of the bed, he returned to stand before me and staring down at my still form on the mattress, he knelt in a sh.


    ¡°Ohhhh¡­¡± I moaned as I felt hisrge hands on my thighs, and he rubbed the milky skin with his lips just inches away.


    His hands began to separate my thighs, and I became more anxious and aroused with each passing second.


    He still hadn¡¯t answered my earlier question, and I was already a quivering frustrated mess.


    ¡°Robert¡­ please¡­ answer me! I¡­ I can¡¯t¡­.¡± My wrists twitched at the knotted tie as I stuttered out.


    He¡¯d said earlier that I had no idea what would happen to me tonight, and my curious mind couldn¡¯t shake that off.


    I heard a low grunt from his lips, and then his fingers pushed between the flesh of my legs, widening my thighs and exposing my glistening wet red panties.


    ¡°Fuck, baby girl¡­¡± He mumbled beneath me, one of his hands gently running two fingers through the wet fabric and then stroking upwards.


    I shivered at his touch, moaning and biting my lower lip. The pressure and heat inside me were unbearable, and I arched involuntarily upwards, my eyes squeezing shut in pleasure.


    ¡°Please¡­ Rob¡­ Please¡­¡± I begged, wanting to say anything because it was difficult to remain silent when he had me this way.


    My entire body tensed and shook uncontrobly, and soon I felt him pull my underwear off, exposing my private folds to the cool air blowing strongly in the air-conditioned room.


    When his cold fingers slid through my slit, grazing my engorged pussy, I couldn¡¯t help but suck in another sharp breath, and I bucked off the bed again, my wrists tugging.


    I heard Robert chuckle when I moaned loudly, and from the way he sounded, I could tell he enjoyed the torture he was currently subjecting me to.


    Legs still wide open, and a hunky man kneeling beneath me, I moaned out loud when I felt his breath on my clit, and then he ced his lips on my pussy.


    His tongue darted past my swollen opening, licking up and down my clit. My back arched in ecstasy, and I squealed, my tied hands hitting the top of the bed.


    I desperately wanted to fist my hands in his hair, but I couldn¡¯t, and the realization made me want to scream in agony and frustration.


    With warmth spreading across my cheeks and my body trembling with pleasure, I began to moan, ¡°ROBERT¡­ Oh, God¡­¡±


    As he continued licking and sucking me, my heart raced, and my cunt throbbed with an insatiable desire for more of his warm, hot mouth.


    ¡°You taste so good, Renee¡­ So fucking sweet¡­¡± He grunted between his pants. ¡°How did I manage to live so long without this?¡±


    His hand on my left thigh began to wander lower, and halting at my entrance, he said, ¡°You¡¯re going to orgasm so hard before I finally fuck you tonight. I want you toe for me, baby girl¡­ do you get that?¡±


    ¡°Yes! Yes! I will c¡­¡± I purred out, my muscles starting to tense as he increased his mouth movement, and my hips began to rock urgently.


    He slid one finger inside me, stretching me out, the intrusion caused every muscle in my body to twitch, and I started seeing stars.


    ¡°I¡¯ll fuck you like this until youe deep and hard¡­¡± His voice was filled with emotion, and his deep tone echoed through the room, causing me to arch my back.


    He thrust another finger inside me, and as his movement increased, I gasped, almost crying out from the pleasure that overtook me.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, baby girl¡­¡± He grunted, his voice thick with arousal and lust as his fingers moved inside me. ¡°Shh, take your pleasure, baby. Let go for me.¡±


    ¡°Ahhhhh¡­¡± I screamed in ecstasy as waves of pleasure washed over me, and as they did, I came apart, my climax ripping through my body and leaving me weak in the knees.


    ¡°Ohhhh¡­.¡± I croaked again, my mind nk, and briefly, I cked out.


    It wasn¡¯t long before I noticed the bed dipping again, and Robert had untied my hands in seconds, making me gasp in delight.


    I closed my eyes sharply, stretching my freed hands; my eyes drooped, but I quickly opened them again when I heard the sound of ripped fabric.


    My head jerked sideways when I saw the otherworldly sight, and every trace of sleep vanished from my eyes in seconds.


    Robert had stripped naked in the blink of an eye, revealing his broad chest, sculpted abs, defined pecs, and strong shoulders.


    God! He was a beautiful man.


    It was true that Robert wasn¡¯t like other men, and the things he did to make me feel so good fueled my desire for him. However, there was more to him than just a physical attraction.


    It was everything about him.


    Everything he said and did made my heart skip a beat.


    The way he looked at me with such love and treated me like a treasure, ensuring that my every need, both in and out of bed, was met and satisfied, had me melting.


    Damnit!  Robert was wless.


    He smiled broadly at me, and I let out a breathyugh in reply before lowering my gaze to his waist, and another shocking gasp escaped my lips.


    His trousers were undone, and his sizeable erect cock stood proudly, making my legs clench.


    My eyes flitted back and forth as I desperately tried not to look at the pulsing shaft, and I could hear Robert chuckling in amusement.


    ¡°Do you like what you¡¯re seeing, sweetheart?¡± As he climbed atop the bed, the foam dipping heavily, he teased slowly, his eyes twinkling. I giggled.


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± I began to yell, but he cut me off with a kiss, and his right hand snaked up my neck, gripping tightly.


    ¡°Are you ready for me, baby girl?¡± He asked, mumbling sweet dirty nothings in my ears. At the same time, his thick shaft poked my belly.


    ¡°Yes, Daddy. I¡¯m ready. I¡¯m all yours.¡± I replied hoarsely. Holding my gaze, he smirked and reached by the bedside to grab a pack of condoms I hadn¡¯t noticed.


    Tearing the packet effortlessly, I watched as he wrapped one of the contraceptives around his gorging member and then pushed me back to the bed.


    ¡°All mine, Renee. Forever mine, baby girl¡­¡± He whispered. I could only nod while he lowered himself onto me, his arms locking securely around me.


    As he slid his dick softly inside my still-wet pussy, he kissed me deeply, taking my breath away, and I moaned in pleasure.


    ¡°God, Ro¡­ Robert¡­¡± I stammered as he tore his lips away from mine, and with his dick fully buried inside me, eyes locked, he started moving frantically.


    Fuck! This was bliss¡­

 Bliss…

    ROBERT


    I slid effortlessly into Renee¡¯s sweet pussy, not stopping until she gave satisfying moans which were like music to my ears.


    My hands roamed her naked body, feeling every inch of her skin. With my left hand, I continued stroking through the wetness that surrounded her clit, making sure to stimte it simply by touching it.


    As I pushed into her, her back arched, her stomach and waist buckled, and the tightness around her walls was incredible.


    I stared deep into her eyes as I drove into her, thinking about how beautiful she looked when I fucked her.


    She was so fucking pretty, with her lips hung open, eyes dted with desire, and hair scattered all over the bed, and my erect dick twitched involuntarily.


    This woman¡­ she did things to me I couldn¡¯t understand. She made me feel alive and want to exhibit some youthful exuberance.


    With a squirm, she made soft sounds as I thrust deep. Her body was slick with sweat, the scent of her arousal permeating the room around us. We moved together for a few minutes, her mouth still open and moaning between each plunge.


    She eximed in delight, ¡°Fuck, fuck, Robert, yes!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Daddy to you, baby girl¡­¡± I whispered in her ear, my left hand leaving her clit and moving to her neck, which I tightly gripped.


    ¡°Certainly, Daddy.¡±


    ¡°You like it when I fuck you like this?¡± I asked, and she whimpered before replying with a yes.


    ¡°You like it when Daddy grips your neck and fucks you like a whore?¡± I continued, my hands leaving her neck and gripping her face.


    Squeezing her cheeks, I kissed her deeply and slowly, cutting her off from speaking.


    Amidst muffled moans, I could hear her say yes to my question, and I chuckled, tearing my lips away from hers.


    I rubbed her lips softly with my thumb, and as my fingers wandered away again, I continued to fuck her.


    Her hands, gripping the sheets tightly, shot up, and she clutched my arms, her nails digging into my back.


    ¡°Yes, Daddy, oh my God! Just like that, fuck. That spot!¡±


    I decided to catch her off guard when she cried out, and her hips jerked upwards.


    ¡°Oh yes, Daddy!¡± She eximed, arching beneath me. ¡°Fuck yes, Daddy!¡±


    I loved hearing her call my name like that, and the word ¡®Daddy¡¯ made me feel warm and fuzzy.


    ¡°Good girl¡­¡± I whispered, and in a second, I slid out of her.


    ¡°What are you¡­.¡±


    ¡°Shhhh¡­¡± I mumbled, and before she could decipher what was happening, I flipped her over until she had her back to me.


    Her milky ass¡¯s peach shape and heavenly curves made more blood shoot to my groin and engorged dick.


    Without another word, I rammed myself back into her, hands on her back, pressing her face down. She yelped and tried to throw an arm up in protest, but I stopped her short with a harsh p on her ass cheek.


    ¡°Just be a good girl, Renee, and let me handle you.¡± I murmured, her milky skin glistening a bright red even in the dim blue lighting surrounding us.


    ¡°Allow me to be rough and give you the pleasure you want.¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­ Uh¡­ Uh¡­¡± Her voice was muffled as if she was speaking through the bedsheets.


    ¡°Do you want me to stop, Renee? Because if you want me to, then I will. But then we won¡¯t be finished in time, which I¡¯m sure neither of us wants, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ Yes, keep going.¡±


    I groaned harder as I felt her body tremble beneath me. Her wet channel tightened around my dick, and I pushed in and out faster than ever.


    I drew her closer, holding her hips tighter, driving deeper into her until her breath became shorter and her head tilted sideways as she moaned sweetly.


    We started moving in sync, and for a while, it was just the sound of her throaty moans echoing around the room.


    ¡°Come for me, Renee.¡± I growled.


    She screamed in agony, ¡°Yes, I¡¯ming!¡±


    Shouting in delight, she began to move quickly, and I knew what she wanted-the sensation of my cock inside her, pushing into the ideal position.


    She needed more of this, something to satisfy her insatiable desire, and I knew exactly how to give it to her.


    Hitting her perfect spot, I closed my eyes with a grunt, and she moaned louder again, her whole-body quaking as a half-baked orgasm hit her.


    ¡°Get ready to let go, baby¡­.¡± I whispered in her ears, leaning in close and reaching for her breast. I massaged the nipple gently before squeezing it hard, causing her to cry in pleasure.


    My climax was near, and it shot up into my chest with intense heat, knocking the air from my lungs.


    ¡°Renee,e for me, baby girl.¡± Imanded, tweaking her nipples and increasing my pace. I kept moving faster until finally she shuddered against me, her orgasming secondster.


    Her body clenched around me, and I heard her profound sigh while I continued to pound into her, working for my orgasm to hit me.


    ¡°Rob¡­ Daddy¡­¡± She called out my name, and the soft voice had my cock twitching and throbbing.


    I needed toe. Fuck!


    mming deeper into her folds again, a wave of dizziness overtook me and letting out an inhuman grunt, I exploded, my seed spurting into the condom sheath instantly.


    ¡°Damn, Renee¡­¡± I groaned again, copsing atop her, and at that moment, the only sound I could hear this time was my frantic breathing.


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡± She called my name, pulling away from me slowly and making some space. I felt her hands snake up toward my arm.


    ¡°Fuck, Renee! You make me lose my senses¡­.¡± I muttered, chest still heaving, and she giggled softly.


    I had turned, and now I was facing the ceiling, with Renee¡¯s naked form cuddling mine, and just the little strokes of her fingers on my chest had my already limp dick rising again.


    ¡°You enjoyed it right? The feel of my¡­.¡± She trailed off hesitantly.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to say anymore.¡± I interjected, kissing her forehead softly and caressing her hair.


    ¡°You¡¯re the best thing that has ever happened to me, Renee. So precious to me, and this moment is one of the best I¡¯ve ever had. I can never get over the feel of your pussy.¡±


    My voice was filled with lustful emotion as I gently cupped her face, and turning sideways, I gazed deeply into her eyes.


    ¡°So sexy and sultry, just like a woman should be. My woman. My baby girl. My pet.¡±


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± She trailed off with a wide grin and a deep red blush staining her cheek.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    I couldn¡¯t resist the urge to kiss her wholesomely, so I leaned close. Kissing her longingly and passionately, I nipped at her ears yfully.


    ¡°God, I love touching you. Kissing you¡­ Making youe. You taste so good and¡­¡± As I continued to kiss her, my voice trailed off, and her breath hitched.


    ¡°I enjoy touching you as well. I enjoy having you around, and¡­ and¡­ I¡­¡± She stuttered the moment our lips locked. I stared deep, noticing her eyelids drooping, and I realized she was falling asleep.


    I hadn¡¯t finished with her yet, but she seemed tired already.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± I yelled hoarsely, hoping s respond, and she did.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­¡±


    ¡°What do you have nned for tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Until¡­ tomorrow? It¡¯s Monday, and I have to go to w¡­ w¡­ work.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you take the day off work and spend it with me? You could tell your boss to give you the day off, don¡¯t you think?¡± My hands caressed her strawberry blonde curls as I softly inquired.


    Her eyes instantly shot open, and she stared back at me with wide eyes, sleep fading away.


    ¡°Huh? Robert, what did you say?¡± She asked, a sly smile on her face. She wasn¡¯t ready to give in to my demands, but I knew how to get what I wanted.


    Her job be damned! I¡¯d make sure that she spent the day with me.


    ¡°I told you to call your boss-that quirky woman-and request a day off. I¡¯m sure she¡¯d agree because you¡¯re a¡­¡±


    ¡°Quirky woman? What exactly do you mean, Robert? How did you get to know my boss and¡­¡±


    Knowing where these questions led and seeing that I¡¯d spilled too much, I excused myself.


    ¡°Spend tomorrow with me, Renee. We still have a long night ahead of us, and by the time I¡¯m finished, you¡¯ll desperately need sleep and rest. Please, baby girl. Today is the first time we¡¯ve seen each other in a long time, and¡­¡±


    ¡°Okay. Yes¡­ No erm¡­ I¡¯ll¡­ I¡¯ll consider it.¡± She mumbled, barely able to form a sentence. Her eyes drooped, and she was out in seconds, snoring lightly, much to my disappointment.


    I soon felt better, though, as I remembered our earlier conversation, and knowing she¡¯d eventually agree to spend tomorrow with me put me at ease. I knew I¡¯d have no trouble convincing her to spend the next week with me¡­ and the weeks after that¡­ and probably months and for as long as time allowed.


    I had reconnected with Renee through chance and perseverance, and I wouldn¡¯t let her go anytime soon.

 A Day With Robert

    RENEE


    The first thing my eyes saw when I awoke was Robert¡¯s ever-handsome face, gazing at me warmly.


    His broad smile melted my insides while making him appear much younger than he was.


    ¡°Good day, princess.¡± He leaned in closer and kissed my brow, clearing his throat and muttering huskily.


    ¡°Good morning, Daddy.¡± I greeted in response, a blush rising on my cheeks, and I smiled shamelessly.


    ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve woken up in this manner, and I adore it.¡± I said as he ced another kiss on my brow.


    His brows creased as he asked, ¡°What manner?¡±


    ¡°With you looking over me like an angel or something. It¡¯s so lovely.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m your guardian angel. Your protector. Anything goes. I¡¯m at your disposal. Besides, now that I¡¯m here, expect more mornings like this.¡± He responded by kissing my cheeks, forehead, and lips again, causing me tough.


    I couldn¡¯t stop myself from smiling, and warmth filled my chest as he continued to kiss my cheeks before moving to my throat.


    ¡°Rob¡­ Rob¡­ stop¡­¡± I giggled helplessly, mming my arms against his shoulders, trying to get him to stop, but he wasn¡¯t listening.


    ¡°I¡¯m not stopping until I get a taste of my girl. Waking up next to you feels like a dream, one I¡¯ve been anticipating. So, before you leave this bed, you¡¯ll give me my fill.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± With a raised brow, I inquired, hoping he wouldn¡¯t want to have sex with me this morning.


    I could feel his morning erection poking in my stomach, and while I was a little horny, I didn¡¯t want to have sex so early.


    I was still sore from the previous night, and as my mind filled with images of how he¡¯d destroyed my insides, another blush rose on my cheeks.


    Even when sleep had overtaken me after our first bout and my second orgasm, he¡¯d woken me up with the sensation of his dick sliding deep inside me.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on inside your head?¡± Robert asked, abruptly interrupting my thoughts, and I blinked.


    ¡°I¡­ I¡­ Excuse me.¡± Instead, I put my hands on his shoulders and began to push him away from me.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I need to use the restroom.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± He replied curtly before getting out of bed, but not before spanking both sides of my ass cheeks, and I giggled.


    ¡°Be quick ande back.¡±


    I snickered as hemanded, his gaze boring a hole in my naked back.


    My jaw dropped open when I first stepped inside the exquisitely decorated bathroom.


    It was an ensuite room with three different tubs of varying sizes, arge shower curtain with gold and white stripes hanging behind the door, and a small ss balcony overlooking the hotel¡¯s terrace.


    As I walked further into the spacious bathroom, my breath caught in my throat as I noticed a mirror opposite me.


    When I looked at my reflection, it startled me for a split second, but I quickly got over it and used the time to admire my naked milky body.


    I¡¯d never looked at my skin before because it was always rough to the touch, in stark contrast to how milky and soft it appeared, but Robert liked it that way, and that was enough for me.


    I stood by the hung-up mirror, forgetting why I¡¯d left my man in the room, and a smile flickered up my lips as I looked at my reflection.


    I was looking a little different now, which seemed strange because it reminded me of the days following my breakup with Dn.


    How recluse and ugly I felt. I became so insecure that I rarely looked in the mirror unless I was getting ready for something, and even then, I just breezed through it.


    I didn¡¯t particrly appreciate seeing the dark circles and weariness around my eyes. Despite putting on a happy face in Nicole¡¯s presence, deep down, I was dying.


    It felt like my entire future had been shattered instantly and remembering the hurtful things Dn said made everything worse.


    But now¡­ I appeared¡­ content.


    No eye-bags. No dark circles. No weary looks. Rosy cheeks and my smile radiated so much happiness.


    I stared at my pointed nipples and the curves of my hips, noting yet again that I looked a bit fat. Like I¡¯d added some weight, I had no idea if that was good or bad.


    I¡¯d ask Nicole. Her opinions were always correct, though I had an inkling of what she¡¯d say to me.


    ¡®Renee, you look effortlessly beautiful still.¡¯


    ¡®Whether fat or slim, you kill every dress you wear, so I don¡¯t know why you worry too much.¡¯


    A giggle escaped my lips as I mused over the words she¡¯d say, and my smile stretched further.


    Still looking at myself in the mirror, I noticed that my hair was tousled, with the ends sticking up a little higher than usual, and that my body was covered in red bruising, specifically on my neck and wrists.


    I could see a few hickeys along the right side of my neck if I squinted hard enough, and there was another dark bruising that covered the left side of my lower back, probably where Robert¡¯s hands had gripped roughlyst night while fucking me.


    Only the images of the red love bites and marks made me feel hot as I remembered the events that gave birth to them, and I shook my head.


    ¡®He didn¡¯t fuck you rawst night, or you¡¯d have felt some sticky mess dripping down your thighs. Oh, how hot would that be?¡¯ My subconscious chimed, andughter burst out of my throat.


    Taking a deep breath and stepping back toward the bathtub, I quickly searched the toilet shelves for a new toothbrush and other necessities.


    I quickly got to work cleaning myself up and was done in minutes.


    I stepped out of the tub, and after drying my half-wet hair with a small towel near the racks, I grabbed a bathrobe and put it on.


    ¡°So, Robert, I was just thinking how¡­¡±


    When I saw a woman staring back at me from the suite¡¯s doorway, her mouth wide open, the words on my lips died, and I blinked twice.


    I closed my mouth, my gaze darting around the vast room, when I noticed an already-dressed Robert standing by the bedside, wallet in hand, looking for something.


    Dragging my gaze back to the woman still standing there, I realized she was most likely a hotel employee, and Robert must have ordered something.


    The way she looked at me as if she knew who I was and what I¡¯d done in the room made me squirm, and I hoped the marble-tiled floor beneath me would open up and swallow me.


    To say I was embarrassed was an understatement, and to make matters worse, I had just emerged from the bathroom dripping wet and looking like a well-fuckeddy.


    It was extremely awkward because I¡¯d never been in a situation like this.


    ¡°Oh, my God!¡± My feet were already moving backward as I retreated to the bathroom, but then¡­


    ¡°Renee don¡¯t go back. Could you take a seat on the bed and wait for me? I¡¯ll get back to you as soon as I finish with the concierge.¡±


    ¡°How did you know I¡¯d left the bathroom?¡±


    ¡°Do what I told you, baby girl. I¡¯ll be done soon.¡± He said again, this time more sternly, and I knew he was giving me amand.


    One that I couldn¡¯t ignore, at least not right now.


    I nced at him, and he winked at me flirtatiously.


    His look would¡¯ve melted my pants in a split second, but given the circumstances, I just shook my head and retraced my steps.


    Despite his flirtatious appearance, I could tell he¡¯d noticed how uneasy I felt because I saw some concern in the depths of his blue eyes.


    I walked straight to the bed and plopped on the soft foam, deciding to kill time with my phone while he spoke with the hotel staff.


    ¡°I requested she get us some breakfast.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ There must be a kitchen in the suite, right?¡± I mumbled, turning to face him as he walked toward me, closing the door behind him.


    ¡°There is, indeed.¡±


    ¡°You know, I could cook for us. Instead of you paying for some costly food that will taste half as good as mine.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to overburden you, love.¡± He said this after a while, his hands cupping my cheeks as he stood and looked down at me.


    ¡°Besides, I could just eat you. Wouldn¡¯t that be a better meal?¡± I coughed in embarrassment as he questioned me teasingly.


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± I snickered and hit his thighs, and he justughed.


    ¡°Today, I can do whatever I want. Remember, you¡¯re spending the day with me, and¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute, what?¡±


    I looked at my phone again, my eyes widening, and saw that it was already 9 a. m. and that it was Monday.


    I needed to get to work. I had to¡­


    ¡°Oh, my gosh. I need to get to work!¡± I eximed, removing Robert¡¯s hands from my cheeks, and stood up, but he stopped me.


    Instead of tightly gripping me, he pushed me onto the bed, towering over me defiantly, and I saw red.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°Robert! I need to get to work.¡± I spat again.


    ¡°Last night, you agreed not to. Remember you were going to spend the day with me?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ Wait a minute. I said I would think about it.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but I¡¯ve taken that as a yes. I took the day off because I wanted to spend time with you. The very least you could do is return the favor. Besides, I¡¯m sure you¡¯d be given the day off if you called your boss. You¡¯re very hardworking, and don¡¯t even ask me how I know.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°You can call in sick or something. That should do.¡±


    ¡°But Robert¡­ I can¡¯t afford to miss a day. My wage would be affected. If I¡¯m correct, you own your business. No one would stop you if you decided not to go for months, so stop with the taking a day off tactic. Just let me go, and I-¡±


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± He cut in, giving me a warning look that made me shiver.


    ¡°Call your boss and take a sick leave.¡± He said, releasing my legs from his tight hold. ¡°We¡¯ve only just seen each other after so long, and I can¡¯t afford to let you out of my sights soon. So do as I say, or you¡¯ll regret it.¡±


    I grumbled as I slowly began to rise from the bed.


    As much as I wanted to defy his orders, I knew in some ways he was right. Also, I had no choice but to obey him, now that he¡¯d finished with a harsh warning.


    He¡¯d make me regret it by depriving me of sex, and I didn¡¯t want that.


    ¡°So, I should spend the day with you?¡± I asked with a snicker, and he grinned and nodded sheepishly.


    ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll make the call and take a sick leave. You¡¯ve won.¡± I pouted, and as he began to walk away, he blew me a kiss.


    ¡°Good good girl. That¡¯s my girl.¡±

 Mini Farewell

    RENEE


    ¡°Your hands are incredibly soft. Renee, I could kiss them all night and never let go.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± I gave him an adoring frown from the passenger seat.


    It was already evening, and he drove me back to my house after spending the entire day with me.


    ¡°Yes, baby girl, I never tire of kissing your fingers.¡± He continued to control the steering wheel with his other arm, cing soft kisses on my left knuckles, which were intertwined with his.


    My eyes glowed with affection as he continued to drop chaste kisses on my fingers, and as we drove past the breezy, lit-up street, I began to reminisce about the day¡¯s events.


    After calling my boss and requesting a day off, which she dly granted, Robert and I ate breakfast in bed, and he quickly went to shower while I explored thevish suite.


    One thing led to another, and then Robert fucked me on the bed right after getting out of the shower with a raging hard-on.


    After cuddling, talking, and having a good time, the afternoon flew by, and we ate lunch naked and still in bed.


    While eating, Robert told me about his ns for the rest of his time in Ondo and how much he enjoyed the city, much to my delight.


    He¡¯d asked me to get dressed after lunch, insisting on taking me out for the day so we could spend it outside. However, I¡¯d declined his offer, promising we could next time, and there would definitely be a next time.


    Many more times to be precise!


    But now I was d I had declined his offer because he¡¯d made my decision to stay in worthwhile.


    I could still taste his cum on my lips and it reminded me of thest sex we¡¯d had just minutes before we were about to leave the hotel.


    He¡¯d taken me to the suite¡¯s balcony, where he¡¯d fucked me repeatedly, his hands gripping my hair roughly and my face straight ahead until I squirted helplessly over his dick.


    He¡¯d freed his dick from the condom wrap, and then he¡¯de all over my thighs and waist, grunting in an animalistic and sexy way.


    ¡°We¡¯ve arrived.¡± Robert¡¯s voice jolted me back into the present, and I blinked quickly, my eyes squinting as I tried to assess my surroundings.


    We¡¯d arrived at our destination, and the car parked directly in front of my apartment building. For a split second, I considered asking him how he¡¯d known exactly where to stop, but this was Robert, and he knew a lot about me.


    He¡¯d sent me gifts, so there was no doubt that he knew where I lived, information his investigator would¡¯ve provided.


    I began to say something else, turning to face him squarely from my seat, but my words ran out.


    Instead of speaking, I fixed my gaze on the handsome man in front of me.


    Would I ever get tired of admiring Robert¡¯s beauty? I highly doubted that.


    Even though it was already dark, with only soft lighting from the neighborhood shining into the car, I could see his facial features.


    I gulped hard, my gaze fixed on the striking side view of his face and strong jawline, with the faint stubble dusting his chin.


    I fell into a trance for a second, watching as his strong hairy hands gripped the vehicle¡¯s steering wheel with his longshes sweeping up toward his cheekbones and his full, plump, slightly chapped lips.


    His gaze was straight ahead before flickering repeatedly as he appeared to be observing something.


    He was most likely checking out where I lived, and from the slight frown on his face, I could tell he wasn¡¯t pleased with what he saw.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I called out softly, reaching out to nudge him by the shoulders, causing him to blink and snap out of whatever thoughts were going through his head. ¡°What¡¯s the problem?¡±


    ¡°Not much.¡± He replied, although, I could see the lie in his words when his grip on the steering wheel tightened.


    ¡°Do you dislike my neighborhood?¡± I persisted, my jaw clenched as I felt a stab of pain shoot through my chest.


    I was proud of my possessions and wouldn¡¯t take it lightly if Robert said anything disparaging about where I lived.


    Nicole had lived here through college and now that I shared the apartment building with her, it was also mine.


    Yes, it was slimy and not in the best neighborhood, but it was all we could afford, and I had noints.


    I waited for him to say something, breathing in and out slowly, bracing myself for whatever he¡¯d say about the rundown building block, but he surprised me instead.


    ¡°I never said anything like that, sweetheart.¡± He finally said, his brow furrowed as he turned to face me, grabbing my left hand back in his, bringing my knuckles to his lips, and softly kissing them.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the problem?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to say goodbye so soon.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t see you until Thursday, baby girl. Don¡¯t you realize that¡¯s torment? Can¡¯t we see each other on Wednesday? I coulde by¡­¡±


    ¡°Robert¡­ I spent a lot of time with you today. I spent the entire day with you, dammit!¡± I cut in, my eyes dimming, and he just sighed, seeing that I wouldn¡¯tply with his request.


    ¡°I¡¯m already missing you. I feel like gluing you to my skin and¡­ Fuck!¡± He cursed, bringing my knuckles to his cheeks and letting his stubble graze through my skin.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to miss you as well.¡±


    ¡°Then let mee see you on Wednesday. I could have someone pick you up, and we could meet at my office before going to¡­¡±


    I listened intently as he continued to speak, but my mind was elsewhere as I began to consider the possibility of seeing him again so soon.


    Spending days with him and simply enjoying hispany.


    Despite how appealing the offer sounded, I had to decline. I had work obligations. I had fund targets to meet, and I needed to provide for my sick mother, who was thankfully improving.


    ¡°Did you just hear what I said, Renee?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ yes. What did you ask?¡± I blinked quickly once more, my right hand going to my brow and caressing the folding skin.


    ¡°Is there something bothering you? What is it?¡± Robert asked, his hands cupping my cheeks as he drew me in for another soft kiss.


    ¡°Nothing bothers me.¡± Iughed. ¡°I¡¯ve just been thinking about possibilities, but it¡¯s nothing. We¡¯d text and call constantly, so you¡¯d be fine until Thursday, Robert. I¡¯m so sorry, but I did say I had some things to finish up tomorrow and next.¡±


    Some of these things included seeing my mother, and if I couldn¡¯t make the long journey, I would work overtime and send her the money.


    But I didn¡¯t tell Robert because I knew he¡¯d be concerned and even offer to cover my expenses.


    The fact that I was currently dating a stinkingly rich man was deeply ingrained in the back of my mind. A billionaire who could solve my financial problems with one click of his fingers, but I wouldn¡¯t take advantage of that.


    I was with Robert because I love¡­ love? No! Not so soon! I took a step back in my thoughts as I reflected deeply.


    I was with him because he made me feel safe and content. Despite our age difference, he always treated me respectfully and never made me feel insecure.


    Unlike that motherfucker, Dn.


    Robert became aware of my hissing.


    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re alright?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am, Daddy.¡± I winked at him, and his lips widened into a sinister grin.


    ¡°If you keep calling me that, I might be tempted to fuck you hard before I let you go.¡±


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I cackled loudly and, removing my hands from his, I looked down at my waist and began unbuckling the seat belt.


    The hook wouldn¡¯t budge at first, so Robert offered to assist, which he did quickly and efficiently.


    ¡°Here we go¡­¡± As the hook came free, he mumbled, and he looked up at me, deep blue eyes boring into mine and my breathing hitched.


    Our faces were inches apart due to proximity, and the atmosphere was charged, almost thickening.


    I knew what he¡¯d do next, and my instincts were correct because the next thing I knew, Robert leaned in closer and ced his lips on mine.


    The kiss began slowly, with our tongues melding together, and then he sped both hands on my cheeks and increased the pace of his mouth movement.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Oh, Renee¡­¡± He muttered between locked lips, his breathing hurried as he kissed me repeatedly, refusing to let go.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I moaned, my hands already fisted in the dark strands of his hair as I fiddled with his locks too.


    ¡°Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!¡± My tightly closed eyes opened instantly as he cursed, breaking the kiss.


    ¡°What are you¡­¡±


    He sat up, returned his hands to the steering wheel, and said, ¡°I think you should go now because if you don¡¯t, I won¡¯t be able to control myself.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± I muttered, my lips widening into a smile, and I began to open the car door with a shrug.


    ¡°Please greet Nicole on my behalf. Despite my efforts to get something for both of you, you refused, and now you would meet her empty-handed.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not necessary, Robert. Your well wishes are sufficient.¡± I chimed all too quickly, and he just huffed.


    ¡°Bye, baby girl.¡± He mumbled as I climbed out of the vehicle and waved to him.


    I waited for him to leave, and soon the vehicle¡¯s ignition turned on, the car driving away all too quickly, leaving me alone in front of the busy building.


    I whistled slowly with a slight smile and began to walk into the apartment blocks, eagerly pleased with myself and how my weekend had gone.


    Nicole had a lot of gists to hear from me, for sure. Oh, I couldn¡¯t wait any longer!

 Nasty Distractions

    TWO DAYS LATER


    ROBERT


    Fingers caressing the stubble on my chin, I stared straight ahead from my seat, listening to one of my investors exin his business n to me and the other business associates in the board room.


    There was arge TV projector in the room, and staring nkly at it, I decided to pay more attention to what the man was saying for a split second because I hadn¡¯t listened intently for the past few minutes.


    As usual, my thoughts had been elsewhere, thinking of Renee and wondering what she was doing.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Straightening up in my seat, I shook my head. I tried to clear my mind of a certain strawberry-blonde woman and resolved to concentrate on the investor doing the presentation.


    With my gaze shifting over the man¡¯s sturdy frame, I marveled at how different and detailed his n was. He captured my interest already even though he wasn¡¯t finished.


    I could see the man was a genius, and listening keenly I made a mental note to speak with him privately.


    He finished his business n, and as the projector turned off and he began to pack his briefcase, the room erupted in apuse, which I heartily joined in.


    Based on what I¡¯d heard, his n was by far the best of the investors. It was a bit rushed, but I liked it already.


    ¡°That was an excellent presentation, Mr. Zack. I¡¯m mpressed by your suggestions. Could we speak privately after the meeting is over?¡± I asked, and with a brief smile, he nodded before taking his seat, and I also smiled back.


    ¡°So-¡± Standing up, I began to speak, but before I could finish, a feminine voice interrupted me, grabbing my attention, so I turned to see who it was.


    ¡°Good day, dear, Mr. rk . I haven¡¯t presented my n yet.¡± I raised an eyebrow in surprise when the woman I quickly recognized as Mrs. Das spoke up.


    ¡®Dear?¡¯ Who was she calling dear?


    This was a board meeting. Everyone here spoke and acted professionally, but this woman didn¡¯t seem to get the memo.


    I knew she would give me a hard time the moment I spotted her walking through the office¡¯s revolving doors this morning.


    A clear caricature of Amanda, my ex-wife. This woman spelled trouble.


    From her appearance to her clothing and the flirtatious manner in which she spoke to me, I could tell she was desperate to entice me into her bed. However she wouldn¡¯t seed.


    I ignored the obvious signs of attraction she threw my way, and I had no feelings for her.


    I didn¡¯t care about any woman but Renee and this stic-looking chick would figure that out soon.


    I sat back down, cleared my throat, and then croaked out, ¡°Sure, miss. You¡¯re free to show us what you¡¯ve got.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ll certainly show you what I¡¯ve got and be rest assured that I have plenty.¡± I cringed in disgust as she replied in a low, throaty voice and winked at me.


    It wouldn¡¯t do to let any investors see how I reacted, so I smiled and maintained a neutral expression.


    ¡°Very well¡­ Show us what you have.¡±  I said smoothly, trying not to look any more irritated than I already was. ¡°What is it that you need to tell us first?¡±


    ¡°I have some wonderful ideas regarding the newest marketing strategy. If we put more funds into it, we¡¯d yield more ie for thepany. If anyone has any questions, please wave while I continue to exin. You can also do whatever you want to get my attention. Whichever method works best.¡± She suggested with a smirk, looking around the room, and I just scoffed.


    This woman made no attempt to hide her tant sexuality and as she began demonstrating her n on the projector screen, I noticed her little flirty antics that showed how badly she wanted my attention.


    Every two seconds, she¡¯d bend over slightly, and her full fake breasts would spill out of thecy top between her suit shirt, drawing lustful nces from everyone in the room.


    Even though the men in the room tried to avoid staring by checking their watches, she went overboard with her antics to seduce, staring me down.


    I sneered inwardly.


    As if her breasts spilling out weren¡¯t enough, she¡¯d reach forward with her palm outstretched and her fingers curled as if she wanted to grab something or call someone. Then lowering her hand again, she would attempt to adjust her skirt.


    After straightening the dress, she¡¯d resume her presentation, ensuring her breasts bounced rhythmically. With each bounce, some of the men in the room looked on with growing desire, and I couldn¡¯t me them.


    Although she did all of this to get my attention, I gave her very little of it. At the same time, I began to think of ways to expel this woman from my board of investors.


    How did she get involved with mypany in the first ce?


    I didn¡¯t care if she¡¯d donated arge sum of money to whatever cause we¡¯d agreed upon or how many shares she owned.


    All I had to do was show her the way out because she was a threat to Renee. She was no threat to me, but my woman, and this I knew.


    I intended to bring Renee to my officeter, and she¡¯d apany me to my board meetings. So how would she react if this woman was present?


    Or perhaps I could leave the woman alone and observe Renee¡¯s reaction.


    The thought made me chuckle, and my eyes twinkled simultaneously.


    Clearing my throat, I sat upright once more, ready to listen, when my cell phone, which was on the table, suddenly vibrated, and I quickly checked it.


    It was a text message from Renee and my heart warmed when I saw it, all rage toward a specific brte-haired stic doll vanishing instantly.


    Was she thinking about me? I wondered what she was doing as I unlocked my phone and prepared to scroll through my text messages.


    This was our first conversation of the day, and I was excited to see what she¡¯d sent.


    She was probably wondering if I¡¯d eaten lunch or finished work, or maybe she wanted to¡­


    ¡°Holy shit!¡± I cursed aloud, and I immediately heard scuffles around me.


    ¡°Is everything all right, Mr. rke?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°Shall we send for your¡­¡±


    When I looked up from my phone, I noticed my business partners staring back at me, concerned, and I realized they¡¯d heard me cursing.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Please ept my apologies for the brief interruption. The meeting can continue.¡± I said sharply, dispelling the tension. With sullen expressions, they all nodded and returned to their previous focus.


    ¡°Are you paying attention to what I¡¯ve been saying, Mr. rke? You appear to be distracted, and-¡±


    ¡°Continue, Mrs. Das.¡± I spat angrily, my jaw clenched as I shot her a stern re that seemed to convey a message. Grumbling inaudibly, she returned to the projector and continued talking.


    ¡°Good riddance¡­¡± I muttered to myself and returned my gaze to my phone, which shone brightly.


    Renee¡¯s milky breasts and pointed nipples stared back at me from two naked photos, and my dick vibrated in my trousers.


    This woman was going to be the death of me because what on earth was she doing?


    Typing away sharply, I shot her a text.


    Me: Whatever you seem to be doing is definitely working. Your breasts appear to require my touch, which I will provide when we meet tomorrow. But for now, I¡¯m in a meeting and will call youter.


    I returned my phone to the desk, hoping she¡¯d get the message and not send another risque text.


    Deciding to focus on the meeting, I sped my hands together and stared straight ahead, but the device vibrated again, making me hiss under my breath.


    Grabbing the phone, I smirked when I saw she¡¯d sent a winky emoji.


    Me: Don¡¯t y with me, Renee. Please don¡¯t send any more photos. Be a good girl and obey Daddy.


    I sent another text, and before I could eveny my phone down, she replied. I rolled my eyes.


    Renee: No, I won¡¯t.


    Me: What makes you think you can torture me? When we textedst night, I requested nude photos to get off, but you declined. So, what exactly is this?


    Renee: I was saving the photos for today.


    With the text came another photo that made me shift ufortably in my seat.


    I considered not opening it, but my subconscious desires got the better of me, and I clicked the text open.


    ¡°Damn woman¡­¡± I stuttered and squinted as I stared at the image of her freshly shaved pussy peeking out from the greency panties she¡¯d worn today. Quickly, I lowered the brightness of my screen.


    My dick twitched again, and I could feel my erection rousing sharply, so I took a deep breath.


    I let out a string of curses in my head, hands clenched, as I typed another quick text to her.


    Me: Where the fuck are you sending me these nudes? At home? At work? Or you took these photos while dressing earlier this morning, and now you decide to taunt me?


    Renee: I¡¯m at work but in the restroom. I¡¯ll take a sexy full photo of myself soon and send it to you.


    Another flirty emoji apanied the text, and then, as promised, she sent another photo, or rather, a video.


    This time she was fully dressed, and her perfectly manicured left hand were on her thighs.


    She stood directly facing a mirror, phone in hand, with plump red lips and the top two buttons of her waitress uniform open.


    ¡°This woman! This woman!¡± I eximed quietly.


    Me: I¡¯m already horny as it is, and it appears you want me to move our meeting from tomorrow to today. I could end what I¡¯m doing right now ande get you.


    Renee: You wouldn¡¯t dare!


    She texted back, and then sent another photo that had me swearing again.


    Her breasts were hanging out from her shirt this time, and she was gripping them tightly, face in between as she stared straight at the camera, and my dick shot up instantly.


    Me: Fuck!


    I was about to send another text when Mrs. Das called my attention to the meeting that was still going on around me.


    ¡°Are you still listening, Mr. rke? I just asked for your thoughts on something and-¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Das, continue without me. Anyone can express their thoughts. I¡¯m attending to something important on my phone.¡± I responded harshly, and I could tell the bratty woman didn¡¯t like my tone, but I didn¡¯t care.


    My cell phone vibrated again, and I stared at the photos she had just sent me.


    Renee: Goodbye, Daddy, and focus on your meeting. It was fun taunting you. See you tomorrow.


    She sent herst text, and I gripped the device tightly, so hard that it would¡¯ve broken.


    Fuck tomorrow. I was going to see her today and right now!


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, everyone. Unfortunately, I have something important to attend to, and it requires my presence immediately.¡± I stood from my seat and faced my investors.


    I could see the shock and disapproval on their faces, but they could only nod in response, and I smiled briefly.


    ¡°Thank you very much. The meeting will be postponed until Friday. See you allter, and Mr. Zack?¡± I called out as they began to file out of the boardroom one by one.


    ¡°Yes, Mr. rke.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll schedule a private meeting with you soon, and my assistant will contact you if that¡¯s fine by you.¡±


    ¡°It certainly is.¡± The bald man agreed, and I nodded and waved him away.


    ¡°How about us?¡± I looked up from the table where I¡¯d been packing my documents.


    Who else did I expect? It was Mrs. Das, of course, and she was staring back at me with bright green eyes that twinkled flirtatiously.


    ¡°How about us?¡± I repeated her question as I continued. ¡°I dismissed everyone. What makes you any different? Today¡¯s meeting is over.¡±


    I reminded her once more, in case she had forgotten, but she stood motionless with a smirk, irritating me even more.


    ¡°You know, we should have a drinkter and discuss it in a more private ce. I¡¯ve already instructed your secretary to set aside time for us and¡­¡± She trailed off as she took another step toward me until she stood close.


    So close that I could smell her sultry, expensive as fuck perfume, and I scrunched my nose in disgust.


    ¡°I don¡¯t do drinking.¡± I said, frowning and narrowing my eyes.


    ¡°Neither do I, love.¡± She replied flirtatiously. ¡°However, I might make an exception for you. I apologize if thises across as unprofessional, but¡­¡±


    When she stopped talking and ced her red-painted fingers on my suit shirt, I lost it.


    Without saying anything or giving her a chance to respond, I yanked her wrists off my chest and violently shoved her away.


    Mrs. Das stumbled backward, falling to the floor with a thud and clutching her wrist as if pped, but I didn¡¯t mind.


    ¡°Get the hell out of my office right now. This will also be thest time I see you here. I¡¯ll be canceling your shares and repaying you every penny you ever put into mypany. I can¡¯t believe Das married a woman who¡¯d be this unprofessional.¡± I screamed through clenched teeth, and she stared at me in disbelief.


    ¡°You want to remove me from your board?¡±


    ¡°Yes, and I wouldn¡¯t hesitate to do that.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re going to regret this, Mr. rke. You definitely will. I¡¯m divorced, and you still¡­¡±


    ¡°Just get out!¡± I spat, pointing my hands at the door and showing her the exit. Scrambling to her feet, she picked up her bag on the table and walked away, hissing the whole time.


    ¡°Fucking good riddance!¡± I muttered. Giving her no nce as she exited the room, I quickly put my files in my briefcase and stormed out of the board room.


    I was fucking enraged because that slimy woman reminded me of Amanda, and just thinking about her made me angry.


    One person could calm me down, though, and a smile flickered atop my lips at the sole reminder that I was going to meet my girl.


    As I walked briskly out of the office building, I brought out my cell phone and quickly texted her.


    I would get her this bright sunny afternoon, and she would pay for the taunts she¡¯d made me endure.


    Yes, she definitely would!


    Soon, just soon¡­

 Playing Games

    RENEE


    Iughed as I dropped my cell phone into my pocket and exited the restroom.


    I¡¯d achieved my goal. If Robert was horny and had a raging hard-on, as he imed, it would be impossible for him to concentrate in that meeting.


    ¡®You¡¯re so evil, Renee.¡¯ My subconscious intervened, and I scoffed.


    ¡®You¡¯re also very mischievous. I guess your hot Daddy brings out the worst in you, unlike Dn, haha¡­¡¯ My subconscious chimed once more, and I nodded in agreement this time because she was correct.


    It surprised me how eager I was to do naughty things, which I¡¯d have never considered on a normal day. But well, this was the result of a certain dark-haired, blue-eyed man who made my panties wet.


    ¡°Yes!¡± As I returned to my server station in the restaurant, I squealed again, my hands iling.


    ¡°What has you grinning like a fool?¡± Sally, one of the waitresses asked and I chuckled.


    She had no idea. She didn¡¯t.


    ¡°Not much, Sally.¡± I replied, adding. ¡°I¡¯m just feeling good.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm¡­ You didn¡¯t have this particr smile on your face when you walked to the restroom, but now-¡±


    ¡°Sally-¡± I burst outughing, giving her a sly look, and she scoffed.


    ¡°Whatever. I¡¯m going to the restroom, so please cover for me.¡± She muttered as she dropped the tes in her hands and as I watched her walk away, I let out a massive sigh of relief that she hadn¡¯t pried any further.


    It wouldn¡¯t have been easy to keep to myself.


    Ding¡­ ding¡­ The cell phone in my pocket vibrated with an iing text, and I sharply brought it out.


    I unlocked the device and rolled my eyes when I saw it was a text from Robert. I opened the text message, and my eyes bulged.


    Robert: I¡¯ming to get you.


    Oh, god! This was like a nightmareing true. What the? Robert wasing to get me? He wasing to the restaurant. No! I couldn¡¯t afford to see him right now, and-


    Without wasting more time, I quickly texted him, my fingers trembling.


    Me: Please do note. I¡¯m very busy at work and can¡¯t afford any distractions.


    Hands still shaking, I sent the text, which he quickly read and began typing a response right away.


    Robert: Oh, you can¡¯t afford any distractions right now, and you¡¯re suddenly busy at work. But you weren¡¯t busy when you sent me nudes earlier right?


    Reading this text in his voice, I could tell he was being sarcastic.


    Me: Please, Robert¡­ I apologize for interfering with your meeting, but I was thinking of you. Please do note here.


    Robert: I¡¯m thinking of you too, baby girl, which is why I¡¯ming to see you. I suppose I won¡¯t have to wait until Thursday.


    Me: Please, Robert, don¡¯t.


    Robert: I¡¯m on my way, and there¡¯s nothing I can do about it now.


    Me: You could return to the office by turning the car around. Please, Robert. Please.


    I typed away, hoping he¡¯d get my message, but Robert was one hell of a stubborn male and he wasn¡¯t backing down at all


    Robert: Damn! I enjoy seeing you beg, baby girl. But you asked for this, so you should eat the cake you made.


    He texted sarcastically again, and I was at a loss for words as my mind became jumbled.


    I pretended he was ying a joke on me and that this was all a game, but I knew Robert. He was always true to his word.


    My phone vibrated with another text from him, and I nced down.


    Robert: I¡¯m almost there. You know I¡¯m familiar with your workce, which is conveniently close to mine. I¡¯ll see you in a minute, baby girl.


    Me: Please, please, Robert, don¡¯te. I swear I¡¯ll never taunt you like that again. You can punish me for this the next time we see each other, I swear, but just don¡¯te. Please, Robert¡­


    I quickly typed the text and sent it to him. I waited for a response, then realized he wouldn¡¯t be sending one back.


    He was on his way. There were no two ways about it, and at that tant realization, my heart mmed in my chest as I tried to imagine what would happen if he walked into this restaurant.


    What would my colleagues think, and how would they react?


    ¡°Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!¡± I cursed again, drawing the attention of two waitresses standing nearby.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°Is anything the matter, Renee?¡± They asked.


    ¡°Not really.¡± I blurted out, waving my hands at them and ruffling my hair at the same time, already restless.


    I started looking around the half-empty restaurant for my manager, hoping to exin in case Robert really dide, but she was nowhere to be found.


    Panicking, I looked back at the two waitresses next to me and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Mrs. Andrew?¡±


    ¡°Oh my gosh!¡± One of the waitresses eximed and I furrowed my brow.


    ¡°What?¡± I asked.


    The second waitress whistled, and I noticed they were looking at something behind me.


    ¡°No way¡­ no way¡­¡± I muttered to myself. I didn¡¯t move as I listened to them continue to talk about the good-looking customer who¡¯d just walked in. I refused to look toward the door, though it was hard to restrain myself.


    ¡°Damn, Georgia, this man is hot.¡±


    ¡°He exudes rich, hot sugar daddy vibes. It¡¯s not every day a billionaire walks through the doors of this run-down restaurant. Fuck if I don¡¯t get to serve him.¡± Georgia said, primping her hair.


    ¡°Wait, what! I¡¯m about to serve him¡­¡±


    Still rooted to the spot where I¡¯d been standing for quite some time, I listened as my coworkers fawned over the handsome stranger. I could tell they were talking about Robert, and a cool chill ran down my spine.


    I slowly turned around, facing the restaurant¡¯s entrance, and that¡¯s when I noticed him-looking dashing and as hot as sin.


    He wasing straight from his office, still dressed in his custom dark suit and white dress shirt with the top two buttons undone.


    His hair was gel-slicked back, and the faint stubble under his chin made him appear younger than he was. My thighs began to shake.


    I took a step forward, considering what to do since he hadn¡¯t noticed me yet, and just at the same time, he took his seat. That was when all hell broke loose. Everything that happened next proceeded in slow motion as he lifted his face, and ignored the twodies in front of him.


    He stared ahead, straight at me, and our gazes locked.


    Deep blue eyes bore into my brown ones, and I shivered in ce, my entire body vibrating, as he shot me a warning smirk.


    Gosh! What the hell have I gotten myself into?

 The Request

    ROBERT


    I knew I¡¯d won the game Renee started the moment I locked eyes with her, and her lips parted open in shock.


    Brown eyes met mine, hershes fluttered, and her whole body trembled. I could see the movement from where I sat.


    Her cheeks were flushed crimson red, and with her throat bobbinging beautifully, she had her hand on the counter she was standing near.


    I could hear some voices around me and the approaching footsteps of some waitresses, but I didn¡¯t give them a second nce because my entire focus was on Renee-my naughty, shy girl.


    My eyes twinkled, I winked, and with the smirk widening on my lips, she immediately bowed her head as if she¡¯d seen something shocking.


    Of course, she couldn¡¯t hold my gaze. I¡¯m sure mying to her workce surprised her. She wouldn¡¯t have expected me to follow through on my promise.


    This would teach her not to taunt or y games with me in the future.


    After ncing around the restaurant, I returned my gaze to her small dainty frame and began to assess how she looked in her ck and white waitress uniform.


    The simple dress nicely entuated her feminine curves, and my breath hitched in my chest for an entirely different reason.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Even though I didn¡¯t like her working as a waitress or that she got to serve leech-looking men instead of just me, I couldn¡¯t deny that the waitress look suited her.


    She looked like a sexy servant, and for a split second, I imagined fucking her while she was wearing her work uniform and spraying bits of cum all over the dark fabric while she screamed.


    My dick twitched at the illicit thoughts assaulting my senses and I remembered that the photos of her half-naked in that same uniform were on my phone.


    Admiring the uniform while still shaking my head, I clicked my tongue as I tried to eliminate the illicit thoughts assaulting my senses.


    She¡¯d tied a little red bow to the side of her right shoulder. Looking at her face, I noticed she¡¯d packed her strawberry blonde curls into a rough but sexy updo atop her head.


    Even when distressed, she looked so fucking beautiful it made my already shredded heart ache.


    ¡°Good day, sir. Do you want to make a private reservation or¡­¡±


    When I heard one of the waitress¡¯s voices, I dragged my gaze away from Renee and back to the bubblydies in front of me with the initial smile on my face quickly turning into a frown.


    I didn¡¯t respond at first because the woman appeared to be reading an order, and I returned my gaze to Renee, who was now staring at me again.


    Her hands raised and eyes blinking, she appeared to want to ask me something, even though she knew I wouldn¡¯t hear her.


    That was probably why her hands were raised so that she couldmunicate effectively with me, but I wouldn¡¯t oblige her.


    As her mouth opened, I averted my gaze and asked the waitresses, ¡°Where¡¯s your boss?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Sir?¡±


    ¡°Where is your manager?¡± Sitting properly on the chair, I repeated my question with a small smile.


    ¡°Oh, would you like to see her?¡±


    ¡°I would, indeed. Tell her Mr. Robert rke has arrived to see her. Show her this.¡± I said, my hand outstretched with one of my customized business cards.


    ¡°Alright.¡± The bubbly dark-haired woman said as she hurried out of my presence, carrying her tray, and leaving me with the other waitress.


    ¡°Would you care for a drink, sir? You don¡¯t appear to be ordering anything and¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, please. A ss of sparkling mineral water will suffice.¡±


    ¡°Is that all? No juice or wine? Our nice drink collection includes everything from expensive cocktail juices to prized wine b-¡±


    ¡°Just the water, miss.¡± I interrupted, already irritated.


    She nodded, and without further ado, she walked to the counter, where Renee was still standing.


    Her eyes were still focused on me, and this time she had a mischievous expression on her face that had my brows rising.


    Before I could say anything, she moved, walking toward me.


    I smirked, knowing what she was about to do and what she would undoubtedly say.


    She¡¯d probably apologize for what she¡¯d done earlier and try to get me to leave, but I¡¯d refuse.


    Renee had no idea whaty ahead of her, and-


    ¡°Renee, I see you¡¯re taking care of the new customers. Please give them a special 25% discount on their orders and free desserts, okay?¡±


    A loud feminine voice echoed through the busy building, and my brows quirked as I looked past Renee to spot the woman.


    It was Mrs. Andrew, the restaurant manager. My grin widened for the umpteenth time when I saw her.


    Renee who¡¯d already stopped walking, then started backtracking because she had to obey her boss, and I couldn¡¯t be happier about the timely intervention.


    I didn¡¯t want Renee to question my presence.


    Instead, when I finished what I was nning, I¡¯d walk over to where she was standing and drag her out in a sh.


    Still deep in thought, the manager approached me, and I stood up from my seat to greet the smiling middle-aged woman.


    ¡°Good day, Mr. Robert. It¡¯s great to see you here again. How have things been going for you?¡± The woman asked, stretching her well-manicured hand for a handshake, which I politely epted.


    This wasn¡¯t my first visit, and I was well acquainted with Mrs. Andrew, though Renee had no idea.


    Before Renee started working here, I¡¯d had my eye on this building. It was listed on the real estate market a few years ago, and now that I thought about it, I had some regrets about not making the purchase.


    If I¡¯d known the love of my life would be working here, I wouldn¡¯t have hesitated to get the property.


    But, oh well¡­


    ¡°Mrs. Andrew. It¡¯s a pleasure to see you too. I¡¯ve been doing well, and you?¡±


    ¡°Same. How¡¯s business?¡± She asked, and we exchanged minor pleasantries for a few minutes before she finally got down to business.


    ¡°You asked for me. Is there anything, in particr, you¡¯d like to order? I see you¡¯ve only asked for mineral water¡­.¡± She stated, spreading her hands around. ¡°Don¡¯t you want something different? I¡¯ll-¡±


    ¡°Yes, I do need something.¡± I interrupted with a smirk. ¡°I¡¯vee to request for something here.¡±


    ¡°Yes, what is it? Be assured that we have everything necessary to satisfy your appetite, and when you¡¯re finished, you¡¯ll definitely want more. Though this restaurant is not yet a five-star establishment, believe me when I say we provide the best.¡±


    ¡°Of course¡­ of course¡­¡± I muttered, then took a step forward,ughing heartily, and whispered in the woman¡¯s ear, ¡°I¡¯m here to pluck a flower from your garden.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I need to take Miss Renee somewhere, and she won¡¯t return today. So, could you manage without her for the day?¡±


    I stepped back to observe her reaction, and her eyes widened at my strange request.


    I didn¡¯t want to publicize that Renee and I were in a serious rtionship and that she was my girlfriend because I knew Renee wouldn¡¯t want that.


    So I had to be more deliberate with my words. If Mrs. Andrew understood my underlying meaning, then great, but if not, oh well¡­


    ¡°You certainly can.¡± Mrs. Andrew said after a moment, her eyes brightening, and I instantly smiled.


    She understood. What a wise woman!


    ¡°I¡¯ll cover any expense this might incur, and you don¡¯t have to worry about paying for her shift today. Here¡­¡± I mumbled as I reached into my pocket and pulled out arge bundle of dor bills, ¡°This should cover anything. She¡¯ll be back tomorrow, I assure you.¡±


    ¡°Wow! Alright!¡± Mrs. Andrew eximed, her eyes bulging, and her jaw dropped in surprise.


    She quickly took the cash. ¡°Should I send her to meet you here, or will you-¡±


    ¡°You can leave that to me.¡± I cut in again and finished with a smirk, ¡°It¡¯s nice doing business with you.¡±


    ¡°Same here.¡± She winked and proceeded to take her leave, with the waitress behind her following closely.


    As I watched them leave, I began to look around the building for Renee, and I immediately saw her. Her eyes were glued to the table where I¡¯d dropped a bundle of notes.


    Slowly she looked up, and our eyes locked.


    ¡°What did you just do?¡± She mouthed, her lips dropping further when she noticed I was approaching her.


    I could hear murmurs from the staffs around me, but I didn¡¯t care.


    I had only one goal: to drag Renee out of this freaking restaurant.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± She called out almost inaudibly as I came to a halt before her, and I smirked darkly.


    ¡°Hello, baby girl.¡±


    I¡¯d already shot out my hand, reaching for hers and pulling her toward me before she could respond.


    ¡°What are you doing, Robert?¡± She muttered as I dragged her outside, drawing stares. But I didn¡¯t care.


    Her freed left hand fought desperately, hitting and protesting for me to let her go, but I wouldn¡¯t.


    She¡¯d asked for this, and she was going to pay.


    ¡°Robert¡­ Robert let go¡­ How can you drag me out like that? I¡¯m going to lose my job. I¡¯ll-¡±


    ¡°You will not lose your job. I¡¯ve alreadytalked to your boss.¡±  I said with a chuckle as we walked out the restaurant¡¯s ss doors.


    ¡°Howe you did that? I¡­¡±


    ¡°Fuck! The media. The paparazzi¡­¡± I cursed when I noticed a group of women stationed outside the restaurant, their eyes fixed on me.


    They were holding cameras, and it didn¡¯t take me long to figure out who they were.


    Reporters. The freaking paparazzi.


    Despite my efforts to keep a low profile these past few days, they must have caught wind of my arrival in Ondo. At the thought, I hissed inwardly, my hands reaching out to cover Renee as I continued to drag her away.


    Usually, I wouldn¡¯t have cared about their shy cameras because I was used to them, but I was with Renee, and she was thest person I wanted exposed to the media in any way.


    ¡°What are you saying about the paparazzi?¡± Renee began to ask, her steps slowing as she continued to hit my hands, trying to break free from my grip.


    I became infuriated between the paparazzi and Renee¡¯s endless stream of questions.


    Abruptly I maneuvered and hurling her over my shoulders; I began walking hurriedly toward my car, which was parked in a safe spot opposite the restaurant.


    The reporters followed me with their cameras, yelling, ¡°Mr. rke, Mr. rke! We only recently learned of your arrival in Ondo. How is¡­¡±


    I continued walking, ignoring the questions and grateful Renee hadn¡¯t noticed them. She was upied with her futile escape attempt and soon I arrived at my parked BMW.


    I opened the car and tossed her in the passenger seat before mming it shut shut and walking to the other side. When I got in, I found an enraged Renee staring, shooting daggers from her eyes, but the fire in her fiery brown orbs only enhanced her beauty, and I chuckled.


    ¡°What are you up to, Robert?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to punish you, baby girl, for teasing me and sending those pictures.¡±


    ¡°But, I was only-¡±


    Ignoring her, I started the car¡¯s ignition and instructed her to buckle her seat belt. I drove away, her voice fading in my ears.


    She kept on protesting, but I didn¡¯t pay her any heed. She had no idea what was in store for her. At all.

 The Strange Caller

    RENEE


    But I know you care¡­ Bring it over to my ce. You don¡¯t know what you did¡­ did to me. Your body lightweight speaks to me. I don¡¯t know what you did, did to me¡­ Your body lightweight speaks to me.


    As Robert drove through the streets, Chris Brown¡¯s ¡®Under The Influence¡¯ melodic tone yed in the car, and I hummed inaudibly to the tune.


    His left hand was on the steering wheel, eyes glued to the road, and his other hand was on my thigh, ying with my dress.


    Since we¡¯d left the restaurant, he¡¯d been driving without saying a word to me, and I had no idea where he was taking me.


    I wanted to keep quiet as he¡¯d ordered after throwing me in the car, but now I couldn¡¯t hold back my curiosity.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I said and waited for him to respond, but he didn¡¯t.


    I gritted my teeth and called out again, this time louder, ¡°Robert!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Renee?¡±


    I swallowed a huge lump of saliva when he finally responded, his husky voice making the atmosphere tense and suddenly heated.


    ¡°Where are you taking me to?¡± I asked and he didn¡¯t respond at first, keeping silent.


    His attention was still on the road, and his grip on my thighs tightened, indicating he¡¯d heard my question, but still, he said nothing.


    ¡°Rob-¡±


    ¡°To be honest, Renee, I have no idea. When I find a good private parking spot, I¡¯ll park and then punish you, as you deserve.¡±


    ¡°Huh? What kind of punishment?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll see.¡±  He replied with a smirk, and his hand on my thigh suddenly shifted upwards until¡­


    ¡°Ahhh!¡± I gasped as Robert lifted my dress and touched my skin directly.


    A shiver of pleasure coursed through me as his fingers slithered up my leg. Before I could say anything, he was caressing myce panties, and I bit back a moan.


    He hadn¡¯t done much yet, but I could already feel myself getting wet, and no matter how hard I tried not to moan, small whimpers still escaped my lips.


    I cleared my throat briefly, looking at his straight face, and asked, ¡°You said you were looking for a private spot to park?¡±


    ¡°I am.¡± He interrupted curtly.


    ¡°What would you do if you found the ideal private spot? Do you want to¡­ to¡­ fuck me?¡± I stammered through the question, and he chuckled.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. I don¡¯t know. Let¡¯s find a ce first.¡±


    I whined, my lips stretching into a small pout because I didn¡¯t understand what he was doing. He wanted to keep me guessing, and that made me feel worse.


    ¡°Robert, speak to me. Tell me what you intend to do to me.¡±


    ¡°You just need to rx, baby girl.¡±


    ¡°I should rx? Like seriously? You just walked into my workce and dragged me out like I was nothing, and now you want to waste my time? Is this the punishment?¡±


    ¡°What exactly do you mean?¡± His question enraged me.


    ¡°You just wanted me to miss my shift. I know you got approval from my boss, but you also know I won¡¯t be paid for everything I did today, right?¡±


    ¡°Are you concerned about that?¡±


    ¡°Are you serious?¡±


    His fingers suddenly stopped caressing thece fabric of my pants and he rested his hand on my thigh. He gripped my flesh so tightly that I almost winced in pain.


    ¡°Renee, you don¡¯t have to worry about work or anything¡­.¡± He began. ¡°Yes, I requested permission from your boss, and yes, I reimbursed her for any expenses incurred due to your absence. I know you¡¯re concerned about your pay, and I can cover it. It¡¯s nothing to me, baby girl. Just tell me how much it costs, and I will¡­.¡±


    I rolled my eyes briefly in anger.


    Did he want to pay for my shift in exchange for time spent with him? Meaning what? What the hell did he take me for?


    Oh my God! My insecurities surfaced, and I couldn¡¯t stop myself from screaming.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want your freaking money!¡±


    ¡°Renee¡­ Not this again.¡±


    ¡°What do you take me for? A prostitute? I mean, I¡¯m¡­ Whoa¡­¡± I yelped, my eyes widening when the car came to a screeching halt.


    Robert brought the car to a stop on the side of the road, turning the engine off.


    I felt goosebumps prickling down my entire body as my eyes widened and he turned to face me, his eyes never leaving mine.


    What was going on? I wondered as I stared at him, my whole body shivering.


    He appeared intense as he paused, not saying anything.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I exhaled, trying to sound as unconcerned as possible. I dropped my gaze downward, unable to meet his eyes.


    When I noticed my hands trembling, I forced myself to rx and held them loosely in myp.


    ¡°What happened, Robert? What made you stop the car?¡± I gulped as I felt my body heat up.


    I looked at him again, this time realizing that I just  couldn¡¯t take my gaze away from those piercing blue eyes.


    ¡°Never, ever, refer to yourself as a prostitute. What the fuck!¡± He hissed a low growl that made me jump in my seat.


    He was obviously upset because of what I said, and I bit my lower lip in shame.


    ¡°Whether you like it or not, if I want to give you money, I will. I promised I¡¯d spoil you sovishly that you wouldn¡¯t have to worry about anything. My money is yours to spend as you see fit, so stop making excuses about not needing it.¡±


    ¡°Robert-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not finished. Renee. It¡¯d be best if you got used to this because I haven¡¯t even done anything for you yet. I dislike where you work because I know you deserve better given your qualifications, but you refuse to let me find you a better job. Even the apartment you share with Nicole¡­ I don¡¯t¡­.¡± He trailed off with a pause. With a deep exhale, he continued, ¡°Renee, you have to brace yourself for what¡¯s toe and what I would do for you, so that we don¡¯t have any problems. Alright?¡±


    ¡°But, Robert-¡± I began to protest, and he cut me off with a hand to my lip.


    ¡°No buts, Renee! You know what I-¡± He was interrupted by his cell phone loudly vibrating, and he cursed.


    While I watched, he scrambled for the device, pulling away from where he had me trapped with his stare.


    As he did, my head spun as I tried to understand what he¡¯d just said.


    Was I free to spend his money however I pleased? Was he going to look after me and spoil me?


    ¡°This bitch¡­¡±


    Blinking twice, I noticed he was staring at the vibrating phone in his hands and didn¡¯t appear to be answering the call.


    His hands were also trembling. If I had taken a good look at him, I would¡¯ve noticed his eyes were red with rage.


    ¡°Who is that?¡± I asked slowly, but Robert remained silent.


    His gaze was fixed on the screen, and despite leaning in closer to check who the caller was, I couldn¡¯t see anything.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I called out, cing my hand gently on his shoulder. When I made contact with him, he flinched, and I dropped my hand.


    The phone abruptly stopped ringing, and I watched as he switched it off.


    He must have noticed the scared look on my face as he turned to me, and his eyes instantly softened.


    ¡°Oh, Renee, goodness! I¡¯m truly sorry.¡± He began apologizing, his hands gripping his hair, and ruffling through the thick, gelled strands.


    ¡°Who was that?¡± I persisted, even when he took my knuckles and kissed them softly.


    ¡°It¡¯s no one of importance, Renee. I- Let¡¯s get out of here. We need to get going.¡±


    ¡°It was a woman, right?¡± I fired on, not backing down. But he¡¯d turned away from me and started the car¡¯s ignition, his hands going to the car¡¯s steering.


    ¡°You¡¯re not saying anything, Robert.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be concerned, Renee. I promise it¡¯s no one important, and I¡¯ll handle it.¡±


    ¡°But you were enraged seconds ago, and-¡±


    ¡°Renee!¡± He interrupted, his voice firm. ¡°Let¡¯s return to what we were doing before.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± I muttered quietly.


    I didn¡¯t want to aggravate him further, so I let it go, but I couldn¡¯t shake the nagging thought of wondering who this woman was.


    This enigmatic caller who¡¯d made him-


    ¡°Take off your panties.¡± Robert interrupted my thoughts, and I instantly froze.


    ¡°You can¡¯t possibly mean that. For God¡¯s sake, you¡¯re driving.¡±


    ¡°I can drive two things at once.¡± He replied, surprising me, ¡°It depends on which needs my attention the most, but rest assured, you¡¯re in good hands. Now, Renee, take off your panties because I have something for you.¡±


    ¡°Does it have anything to do with my punishment for taunting you earlier?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it does, Renee.¡± He replied curtly, and his voice made my thighs clench in anticipation.


    ¡°So I guess I should take off my panties here and-¡±


    ¡°Indeed, Renee. Do it.¡± He gave another stern order, this time with his gaze fixed on the road, and I just sighed.


    My hands slowly went to work, bringing up my uniform dress and pulling off myce panties.


    As the underwear slid to the floor, cool air enveloped my bare flesh, and I looked at him to see if he was watching me.


    ¡°Please, give me the panties.¡± He may have used the word please, but it was clearly an order.


    Hesitating for a few seconds, I held my breath before bending and picking up the panties. I handed them to him.


    ¡°Mmmm¡­¡±


    My cheeks flushed in embarrassment as I watched him inhale deeply, his nostril ring as he hummed.


    ¡°You smell so nice.¡± He said again, and myshes fluttered as I looked anywhere but at him.


    After a few seconds, he took the panties away from his nose and tucked them into his pocket, chuckling.


    ¡°Soon, I¡¯ll have a wardrobe full of your lingerie.¡±


    ¡°What will you do with them?¡±All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to know.¡± He smirked, shooting me a dark look that made my thighs tremble.


    ¡°So-¡±


    ¡°Check the glove box. There¡¯s a toy pack there. Bring it out.¡± He ordered, interrupting me.


    ¡°A toy pack? Containing what?¡±


    ¡°Do you want to know? You want me to tell you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I do.¡±


    ¡°Something that¡¯ll give you an orgasm if I control it well enough.¡± He rasped, and my eyes widened.


    ¡°Wait, what?¡± I shrieked, and Robert, whose gaze was on the road, suddenly ced his right hand on my bare thigh.


    Softly caressing the milky skin, he asked, ¡°I know you¡¯re already wet, right?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ Robert, what are you¡­ oh¡­¡± I whimpered when his fingers grazed my open pussy, and I bit back a moan.


    ¡°You¡¯re already soaked. You naughty girl.¡± He caressed my clit again, and I shifted on the car seat, gripping the sides with my hands.


    Fuck! I wasn¡¯t sure if I could take any more of his strokes.


    ¡°Baby girl, get the vibrator pack, and let¡¯s get to work.¡± I hissed in frustration at his order, his right hand leaving my thigh.


    ¡°Daddy-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say a thing. Just get the pack. I¡¯ve postponed your punishment for far too long, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Daddy.¡±


    ¡°Good, now do as I say.¡± He gave thestmand, and shamelessly, I searched the glove box without arguing.


    I could already sense that this would be a long car ride¡­. but it¡¯d be worth it!

 Slutty Car Rides

    RENEE


    ¡°Oh, Robert¡­¡± I moaned as he restarted the vibrator, a mischievous grin on his face as he shot me a nce before looking back to the road.


    My legs tingled as my thighs shook uncontrobly, and I gripped the seat¡¯s sides to keep myself steady.


    Despite the air conditioning and the cool breeze blowing in from outside, beads of sweat clogged around my neck.


    Nothing could relieve the heat I felt all over my body and I moaned and whimpered in delight as Robert chuckled darkly, clearly enjoying the agony he was inflicting on me.


    We¡¯d been driving through the streets for hours, with dusk approaching and a remote-controlled sex toy was buried in my pussy. Robert was refusing to give me the satisfaction I craved, and damn if I wasn¡¯t frustrated already.


    He¡¯d turn off the vibrating device between my legs when my breathing became shallow, and I was about to go over the edge. He was doing this deliberately because he didn¡¯t want me to  orgasm yet.


    He was mentally and physically infuriating me and was having a good time doing it.


    I knew how much it drove him crazy, knowing he had this power over me. It boosted his ago as it irritated the hell out of me at the same time.


    He¡¯d promised to make me suffer for taunting him earlier today, and he was doing an excellent job proving that.


    The chill of the night air blew into the car again, and I shivered, biting my lips as I fought the urge to curse and swear at him.


    Because he¡¯d refused to increase the speed of the vibrator in my pussy, I continued whimpering, fighting back curse words and the frustrated tears burning at the back of my eyes.


    ¡°Unbutton your uniform¡­.¡± Hemanded and  I rolled my eyes, turning away from him.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± He growled as he turned off the vibrator, and I hissed, mybored breathing instantly deting.


    I gave him a sidelong nce and noticed his attention was still on the road. He was gritting his teeth as if angry.


    Of course, he was upset. It was my turn to smirk at my refusal to obey, but a slight shift in the seat reminded me I had something buried in my pussy, and Robert was still in control.


    Slowly, I began toply as my trembling fingers fumbled with the buttons on my dress, desperately trying not to look at him while remaining silent.


    Heughed maliciously. ¡°Good girl. I thought you would defy my orders, but you know how that would y out. Just take a look at yourself¡­¡± He cooed, shooting me curt nces as he watched me struggle to undo my uniform.


    ¡°You appear to be in desperate need. Your shivering body, your trembling lips. Fuck!¡± He cursed, and as I whimpered, I felt his hand on my chest, sliding under the fabric as he made his way to my breasts.


    I closed my eyes as he rubbed my breasts, squeezing them through my bra and before I knew it, he¡¯d taken off the front hook in seconds, and my breasts were free.


    He tweaked and stroked my nipples and I made no effort to stop him, even if this sexual torture was excruciating.


    I could only stay pliant and wait for him to give me the pleasure I desperately desired.


    ¡°I can feel your thighs shaking, sweetheart¡­¡± He purred, running his hands down my chest. ¡°I¡¯m fucking horny, but I won¡¯t stop torturing you until you beg me.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I won¡¯t¡­¡± My breathing becamebored as his hands moved down my stomach, away from my breasts. I felt his fingers brush against the little v-shaped pubic hair on my pelvis.


    ¡°Very resilient, are you now?¡± He asked, his fingers stroking my clit, and the vibrator I was still wearing, and I couldn¡¯t hold it back anymore.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± My thighs cursed as I let out a frustrated groan, and my hips shook involuntarily.


    His fingers dug deeper into my pussy, pulling on my clit with more force than was necessary. I let out a strangled scream.


    ¡°Robert! Fuck!¡± My voice echoed loudly inside the car, and I heard himugh as his hand found my clitoris again, and with a sharp pull, he removed the vibrator with such ease I gasped.


    ¡°What¡­ what are you doing?¡± I stuttered as the sex toy fell from my pussy to the car floorboard, and Robertughed.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to use my fingers and tongue to give you the satisfaction you need. Fortunately for you, I¡¯ve just seen a perfect spot to pack the car.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± I began to ask, but he didn¡¯t respond and continued to drive. His fingers ying and stroking my clit still.


    I looked ahead, still panting heavily and my heart racing erratically; I saw that Robert had driven off the highway, and we were heading toward a bridge.


    Before I could say anything, he jammed his car¡¯s brakes, turning the ignition off as he stopped.


    ¡°Finally¡­¡± As he unbuckled his seatbelt, he breathed, his hands leaving my thighs, and I looked around to see where we were.


    The street was fairly empty, with few people wandering around even though it was getting dark, and I was worried about someone seeing, but as I turned to ask Robert about it, he cut me off.


    ¡°My car¡¯s tinted. Nothing is visible.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± I asked with amusement and he nodded, smirking as he leaned forward.


    I sat upright, facing him.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± Our lips were inches apart when he got close, and I closed my eyes, ready for his kiss.


    But the kiss never came, and as seconds passed with no movement, I opened my eyes to see him staring at me with a mischievous grin.


    ¡°There you go again.¡± Heughed. ¡°Such a loud mouth, yet still, you¡¯re eager as a kitten. I don¡¯t know how we¡¯ll do this. Renee¡­.¡±


    His hands snaked up my neck, and he gently grabbed my throat as he whispered, ¡°I tried rounding the city looking for a cozy forest I could drive into. We¡¯d have had so much privacy while we fucked like rabbits but unfortunately, I didn¡¯t see any. We¡¯ll have to make do with the resource we have now, and when I¡¯m done satisfying you, you¡¯ll do the same to me, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ yes, Daddy.¡±


    ¡°Good. That¡¯s a good girl.¡± He purred in my ears, his nose affectionately nuzzling my cheeks.


    Taking his hand off my throat, he started working on my seat, adjusting it until it reclined and I was veryfortable.


    I was in a position where he could delight me to his heart¡¯s content, and I swallowed heavily, feeling his fingers roam all over my body.


    I clenched my teeth together, my eyes closed tight, and bit my lip, fighting to remain silent as his hands parted my thighs.


    I wasn¡¯t sure how much longer I could take as the burning tension inside me was already bing unbearable.


    This frustration was killing me, damn it!


    I struggled to keep the moans from escaping. I felt his fingers slip inside me, his digits gliding smoothly up and down my inner thigh, my skin tingling painfully.


    I gasped, my hands reaching back to grip my breasts as I writhed around on the chair, crying out.


    ¡°Shhhh¡­ baby¡­ rx¡­¡± He murmured, leaning close to my ear, and pressing his fingers deeper and deeper inside me, my entire body shook willfully.


    He began to pump in and out of my pussy, his fingers fast and rough and sensing my orgasm, I whimpered in pleasure, unable to hold it any longer.


    ¡°Should I go on?¡± He asked, my moans growing louder. I could only nod in response.


    ¡°Come for me, baby girl¡­¡± His voice was husky again, and as different sensations flooded my body, my muscles began to tremble beneath his fingers.


    When my orgasm mmed through me, he continued to fingerfuck me, not letting go or stopping to punish me. And damn! The relief was palpable.


    ¡°Fuck! Daddyyyy¡­¡± My legs shook uncontrobly. I screamed, my eyes seeing stars, and my hands shot out to grip his arm, biting my lips.


    ¡°That¡¯s it. Come for me.¡± My legs shook as I creamed his fingers, my pussy clenching and unclenching.


    ¡°Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!¡± I eximed frantically.


    As I regained myposure, my legs stopped trembling, and the sensation inside me gradually faded, though my thighs tingled.


    ¡°Ahhh¡­¡± I gasped as Robert slipped one finger away from me, then another, until I was free of his grip. Iy panting loudly against the seat.


    ¡°You were initially very stubborn, but you did well, sweetie. You¡¯ve kept your cool for a long time.¡± He praised me and kissed the knuckles of my limp right hand. ¡°Did you like it?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­¡± I whispered breathlessly, trying to calm myself. I closed my eyes, and bit my lip.


    ¡°Do you want something to eat?¡± I opened my eyes wide in surprise at his question.


    ¡°You¡¯re hungry?¡± He asked. ¡°Right?¡±


    I winked at him, sitting upright, closing my still-naked thighs, and replied, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m hungry¡­.¡±


    ¡°Alright. What do you want to eat? We could also drive-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d like to eat you¡­¡± I cut him off, my eyes seductively blinking at him as I shared my gaze from his face to the massive erection beneath his trouser pants.


    ¡°Renee, you¡¯re being so naughty.¡± I heard him chuckle breathlessly as my hands gripped the side of his pants. I quickly unzipped the cotton material.


    ¡°Mmmm¡­¡± I hummed gratefully, rubbing my fingers along his enormous length, enjoying the thickness and how it shook in my grip.


    ¡°Get to work, Renee. I can¡¯t hold myself any longer¡­.¡± He ordered. ¡°Otherwise, I could¡­ Arghhhhh¡­¡±


    I smirked as I heard him groaning at the feel of my tongue on the tip of his dick.


    It was my turn now and sliding the head of his shaft deeper inside my mouth, I slowly took him all in.


    As I started, taking my time because I wanted to dy his satisfaction as much as he¡¯d dyed mine, I heard him swear from above me.


    Before I could say a thing or ask why he was muttering those incorrigible words, I felt his rough grip on my hair.


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± I croaked. My hands trembled as I sensed he was about to take the lead. But he didn¡¯t respond, and instead of letting me get another grip on him, he moved his dick in my mouth faster and faster.


    ¡°Oh, shit¡­¡± I whimpered around the length of his cock in my throat and gagged as tears burned at the back of my eyes.


    ¡®So much for wanting to be in charge¡¯  I rolled my eyes slowly as I held his thighs for stability.


    Oh, well.

 Scheduling Date Appointments

    ROBERT


    ¡°That¡¯s one thousand, five hundred dors and sixty cents.¡± The grocery clerk at the supermarket¡¯s front desk told me, and I smiled curtly at the young man.


    Taking out my wallet, I handed twenty-hundred-dor bills to him, adding, ¡°You can keep the change.¡±


    ¡°Robert-¡± As we left the store, I heard Renee gasp, and I shrugged.


    ¡°Oh, my God! Thank you very much, sir!¡± The attendant called out from behind me, and I waved my hands in response, despite having my back to him.


    Renee looked at me as she pushed the trolley. She was trying to hide a smile, I could tell.


    ¡°Here, give that to me.¡± I offered and before she could hand the trolley over, I pushed her aside and took hold of it.


    ¡°I see you¡¯re desperate to say something to me about the tip I gave the clerk.¡± I said as we walked out to my car.


    It¡¯d only been minutes since we¡¯d finished our sexual shenanigans, and Renee wanted to go home straight after, refusing to let me take her to a restaurant for dinner.


    She¡¯d called Nicole, and from the phone conversation, I deduced they didn¡¯t have much food at home and would order some takeout for the night. Because of this, despite her protests, I¡¯d driven to the nearest grocery store to get her some foodstuffs.


    ¡°You¡¯re still not saying anything.¡± I muttered as I stuffed the groceries into the trunk. ¡°Are you upset I left such arge tip for the clerk?¡± I raised my brow, and she shook her head negatively.


    ¡°So, what is it?¡± I asked, this time with a chuckle, and she smiled.


    ¡°You¡¯re so generous. I wish I could work for you.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll never forget the huge tip you left the waitress on our first mutual date or the bundle of cash you left for my boss this afternoon, or now-¡±


    ¡°I gave the clerk $400 in a tip, Renee, if I should calcte. You should know it means nothing to me.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°Good, so don¡¯t get yourself overworked about it.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡±


    Taking her hands in mine and kissing her knuckles softly, I opened the car door for her and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go home now, shall we?¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Closing the car door, I jogged to my side and quickly entered. I started the vehicle¡¯s ignition and speedily drove down the streets.


    Driving in silence, our hands intertwined, I kept bringing her knuckles to my lips, kissing them softly because I couldn¡¯t stop myself from touching her, even for a second.


    I loved running my calloused fingers over her skin because it was soft and smooth. It also made me feel rxed.


    Some minutester, as I approached her neighborhood, Renee called to me.


    ¡°Robert?¡±This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes, baby girl?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve already gotten groceries for me to cook something at home, but what about you? What are you having for dinner?¡±


    My eyes rolled as I gripped the steering wheel tightly. ¡°I offered to drive us to a restaurant earlier, and you declined, Renee. I would¡¯ve eaten dinner at that point.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I apologize, Robert. It¡¯s just¡­ I¡­ I had dinner ns with Nicole tonight and-¡±


    ¡°But you live with her, and I¡¯m sure you both eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner together whenever you¡¯re home. So that¡¯s not an excuse.¡± I said, cutting through her reasoning.


    ¡°Are you upset?¡± She asked, and I chuckled.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not. I¡¯m only stating the obvious. I wish we lived together, you know¡­ I¡¯d have driven straight home and-¡±


    ¡°I can cook you something at my apartment. I could quickly whip something up for you.¡±


    I smirked, realizing she¡¯d averted my conversation about living together. At the same time, I couldn¡¯t stop myself from grinning.


    She had no idea I¡¯d already purchased a home in Ondo and nned to move her in with me.


    ¡®Steady Robert, steady.¡¯ My subconscious advised me to caution, so I only nodded at her suggestion.


    ¡°Are you going to stay so I can make something?¡± Renee asked again, then added, ¡°You¡¯re not saying anything.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Renee. I¡¯ll be fine. I¡¯ll have dinner at the hotel restaurant.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay¡­¡±


    ¡°I love that you care about me. Doting on me like a mother, it¡¯s sweet.¡± Iplimented, shooting a soft nce at her, and smiling, she blushed uncontrobly.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the n for tomorrow?¡± She asked.


    Brows furrowed, I replied, ¡°We¡¯ll definitely see each other tomorrow as originally nned. I¡¯ll call you, and we can schedule a date in the evening when you¡¯re done with work. How about that?¡±


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s okay. Fuck!¡± She cursed, her free hand going to her forehead.


    Brows wrinkled in concern, I asked her what was wrong.


    ¡°Nothing. It¡¯s just the mention of work has me thinking. I don¡¯t know how I¡¯ll face my coworkers after the stunt you pulled today. They¡¯re going to ask so many questions, and some might even despise me ¡¯cause I¡¯m-¡±


    I clenched my teeth in rage as she continued toin.


    ¡°Renee, nothing will happen. Let me know if anyone tries to bully you or talk trash.¡± I interjected before she could finish. Maneuvering the car¡¯s steering, I continued, ¡°If it means buying the restaurant and getting rid of those loudmouthed women byying them off, then I would dly do it.¡±


    ¡°Wait! No, Robert!¡± She eximed, widening her eyes as she turned to face me, but I was dead serious.


    No one dared to molest or touch my girl and get away with it.


    ¡°I¡¯m not kidding, Renee. I know they¡¯re your coworkers and bound to talk, but if anything happens to you, physically or verbally, I won¡¯t take it lightly.¡±


    ¡°I understand, but surely you¡¯re kidding when you said you¡¯d buy the building, right? Come on, I mean-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not joking, Renee.¡± I curtly replied. ¡°I mean it, and you know I can follow through if I want to.¡±


    ¡°Robert-¡± I didn¡¯t let her finish because I¡¯d already stopped in front of her apartment building and saw a familiar figure standing outside.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Nicole?¡± I asked.


    Looking up, she squealed, ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ Finally, I get to meet her.¡± I muttered to myself under my breath. But Renee overhead and working to free herself from the seatbelts, she just giggled.


    As soon as we left the car, I dashed to the trunk, taking out the grocery bags and cing them in the copsible trolley I¡¯d purchased from the store.


    Renee had already gone to meet her friend, and they were chatting when I approached them, trolley in hand.


    ¡°Good day, Nicole. You¡¯re looking so lovely.¡± I said warmly as we hugged, and I kissed her on the cheek, much to Renee¡¯s chagrin.


    ¡°Thank you very much, Robert. How are you doing?¡± She asked, and we conversed, exchanging pleasantries for a while.


    She¡¯de outside to pick up the food she¡¯d ordered. When she saw the groceries I¡¯d bought Renee, her eyes widened, and she thanked me profusely.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing¡­¡± I tried to dismiss herpliments, but she wouldn¡¯t have it.


    ¡°Robert, I¡¯m at a loss for words. I¡¯m overjoyed and I¡¯m also d you¡¯re with Renee. She appears to be in good spirits and exudes a sense of calm these days. I appreciate everything you¡¯ve done and-¡±


    ¡°Nicole!¡± Renee cut in, trying to chastise her friend. I could already see blush stains on her cheeks.


    Chuckling, I didn¡¯t say anything, just nodding in response. As the gentlemen I was, I decided to keep quiet and let thedies have their say.


    ¡°It¡¯s gettingte, Robert¡­.¡± Renee said as I was about to say something to Nicole and grabbing my left arm, she started dragged me toward my car.


    ¡°Bye, Nicole.¡± I bid my farewell, and as she waved at me, she grabbed the trolley and began to walk inside with the food.


    ¡°Are you sending me away?¡± I jokingly asked Renee. She rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Not that, but you have to go. It¡¯s gettingte, and I don¡¯t want anything happening to you and¡­.¡±


    I abruptly stopped and quickly maneuvered her, removing my arms from her soft grip and arranging her properly until she stood directly in front of me.


    ¡°I should be concerned about you, not the other way around, Renee.¡± I inhaled deeply and whispered in her ears, my nose nuzzling her neck and making her shiver.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± She purred my name, and I chuckled.


    I gently gripped her neck and pulling her lips closer to mine, I kissed her passionately and tenderly like I was starving.


    I didn¡¯t want to let go, but I had to, and after a few seconds, I painstakingly tore my lips away and rested my forehead on hers.


    ¡°Damn! I can¡¯t wait to see you again tomorrow and do all sorts of bad things to you. Fuck you on my hotel bed. Fuck you on the kitchen counter. Fuck you in the bathroom. Fuck you standing, sitting, kneeling¡­¡±


    ¡°Robert, stop!¡± Sheughed, hitting my shoulders as her cheeks blushed pink.


    ¡°Well, I have your panties tonight to keep mepany.¡±


    ¡°Robert, you sleaze¡­¡± Renee trailed off, and I just chuckled.


    ¡°Good night, baby girl, and dream of me, will you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I will, Daddy.¡±


    ¡°Good girl. Now off you go.¡± I finished, pushing her off and urging her to go on.


    ¡°What about you?¡±


    ¡°Go ahead, Renee. Let me watch you enter the building.¡± I ordered.


    Sheplied begrudgingly and walked away, though she kept looking back to see if I was still watching her. When she was finally out of sight, I sighed with satisfaction and walked straight to my car, opening the door and hopping inside.


    Starting the car, I switched on the speaker and as some cool music sted through, I drove down the streets and straight to the hotel.


    I¡¯d had a fantastic night with my girl and was content.

 The Unexpected Visitor

    RENEE


    The sun hung low over us as Nicole and I jogged through the streets together, a gentle breeze brushing the hair from our faces.


    The city was bustling, with a few people milling about on street corners or in restaurants. Others rushed past the sidewalk with their hands tucked into their coats. I took everything in with all my senses.


    Couples were loitering, and a sly smile crossed my lips, as I remembered that I¡¯d be seeing Robert soon.


    Only yesterday, he¡¯d given me several heady orgasms in his car, and we¡¯d spent the entire afternoon together, but it felt like an eternity since I¡¯d seen himst.


    Even as I jogged, our conversation fromst night echoed in my mind, and I blushed uncontrobly, hoping Nicole wouldn¡¯t notice.


    ¡°What¡¯re we having for dinner?¡± Nicole asked, tugging at my sleeve and hitting my shoulders. I stopped jogging, pausing to catch my breath, setting aside my thoughts of Robert.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I said, what¡¯re we having for dinner?¡± She asked again, her long raven hair swinging against her shoulders and cheeks. ¡°You¡¯ll either make something or-¡±


    ¡°Come on, Nicole.¡± I chuckled, ¡°You know I¡¯m going to be preparing for my date with Robert.¡±


    ¡°Oh, shit! I forgot!¡± She hissed, hands touching her forehead.


    I rolled my eyes.


    ¡°Yeah, you forgot so quickly. Pretty silly, considering you helped pick out the dress I¡¯d be wearing.¡±


    ¡°And I came up with the no panties rule, too.¡± She added with a smirk, and my cheeks flushed in embarrassment.


    She¡¯d made funny jabs at me earlier, asking me not to wear any panties because he¡¯d left me without onest night-she knew because I told her. At first, I refused, but something in the back of my mind told me I¡¯d go through with it.


    And if I did, well, there was no harm in being bare and naughty for my man.


    I chuckled softly at the thought, and Nicole gently pushed my arm again.


    ¡°What?¡± I asked harshly.


    ¡°Whatever has you smiling like that, I¡¯d like a recap when you get home tomorrow morning.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not telling you anything, Nicole.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re depriving my fantasy life. You¡¯re getting dick regrly while I bury myself in books, porn, and¡­¡± She grumbled.


    ¡°Nicole!¡± I eximed, hitting her shoulder as I burst outughing, unable to control myself as we rounded the corner that led to our apartment.


    ¡°I¡¯m right, aren¡¯t I?¡± She asked, and I just continuedughing.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to tell you details about my sex life, Nicole.¡± I abruptly stopped speaking when I heard my phone vibrate, alerting me to an iing text message, and I looked at Nicole.


    ¡°Who could this possibly be?¡± I muttered as I took my cell phone from my back pocket, swiping the screen open and raising my brows when I saw it was a message from Robert.


    Was he already on his way to pick me up?


    ¡°It¡¯s too early already¡­.¡± I mumbled, checking the time on my phone, which showed it was only 6:00 p. m.


    Without further thought, I swiped open the text and quickly read through it.


    Robert: I¡¯m so sorry, baby girl, but I have to cancel our date. I have an urgent matter to attend to, and I¡¯m not sure how long it will take. Even if I¡¯m finished, I doubt I¡¯ll want to see you because I won¡¯t be in the best spirits. So please ept my apologies, and we can reschedule for another time. Have a good night¡¯s sleep, okay? I love you. ~ Robert.


    I stared nkly at the phone¡¯s screen, frozen in my steps, as a sudden chill swept over me.


    The text was strange. It appeared that he was trying to tell me more with this message, but at the same time, he didn¡¯t want me to know anything.


    ¡°Hey, Renee. What¡¯s up?¡± Nicole called, and looking up, I saw she was far ahead of me. She must have run along without me, and I¡¯d had no idea.


    A sigh escaped my lip as I gripped my cell phone tighter and quickly typed out a text in reply to the message.


    Hitting the send button, I jogged to catch up with Nicole.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°I got a text.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you did. Who from?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Robert. Here¡­¡± I muttered, giving her the phone, and she loudly read through the text.


    My head began to spin as Nicole continued reading, and I tried to wrap my head around what this could mean.


    This was the first time Robert was canceling on me, and knowing how much he¡¯d looked forward to our meeting tonight, a variety of thoughts raced through my mind.


    Something urgent hade up like he said, but the insecure and selfish part of me began to wonder if this meeting-whatever it was-was more important than me.


    What was the reason for his cancetion? Who was he meeting with? This was clearly not a business meeting because he would have specified.


    ¡°Okay, no date tonight. So you¡¯ll cook dinner for me then. Thank goodness.¡± Nicole said with a shrug, and I stared at her in disbelief.


    ¡°Is that all you have to say?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Just okay, and you¡¯re happy I¡¯ll cook dinner for you?¡±


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± She called out, her hands gripping my shoulders as she squeezed lightly, ¡°I was joking. I¡¯m so sorry, but as Robert mentioned, something urgent came up and-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m damn worried.¡± I blurted out, another uneasy chill coursing through me as I continued, ¡°I feel like there¡¯s more to this, Nicole.¡±


    ¡°Huh? What makes you think that?¡± She queried, and I began to tell her about the mysterious caller from the night before.


    ¡°Wow.¡±


    ¡°Of course, it was also from a woman, and he seemed irritated and refused to tell me who she was. I think his canceling this date has something to do with whoever that bitch was!¡± I spat out abruptly, and Nicole gasped.


    ¡°Renee, calm down-¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not sure I know how to be calm in this situation. I can¡¯t bear the thought of another woman having-¡±


    ¡°I think you should ask Robert the next time you see him.¡± Nicole interjected before I could finish, ¡°If he refuses to tell you, then you¡¯d know he¡¯s hiding something from you. Then you can allow yourself to get worked up. But, until then, don¡¯t get too agitated about it.¡±


    ¡°Nicole, I¡¯m already agitated. For Robert to choose between that woman and me¡­ It clearly shows she¡¯s more important.¡± I paused, raking my hands through my tangled hair, ¡°Whoever she is-¡±


    ¡°Chill, Renee, stop making assumptions.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t. Nicole, I have a bad feeling about this. I¡¯m imagining all sorts of things in my head-things you wouldn¡¯t want to know about. Nicole¡­ I¡­ I can¡¯t take any more heartbreak, cheating, or-¡±


    ¡°Renee!¡± Nicole shook me violently, her hands going to my arms, trying to get me to stop thinking about the ravaging thoughts in my head.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Stop overthinking. I understand why you¡¯re concerned, but you should know that Robert is a grown-ass man and he must have tangible reasons for his decisions.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, and Renee, remember that Robert loves and adores you. I can tell by the way he looks at you and treats you. Hevishly spoils you, you have the best sex, and he¡¯s always avable except on rare asions. Just stay calm and ask questions. As I previously stated, he must have reasons for everything, so be gentle with him. Don¡¯t let your anger issues and uncertainty ruin something that could be lovely.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you¡¯re talking about, Nicole. I just-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s going to be okay. Don¡¯t overthink it.¡±


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°No buts! Trust me, and don¡¯t overthink this. You can call him tomorrow and talk things out, alright?¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡± I grumbled, and Nicole smiled at me.


    ¡°Good. Now let¡¯s hurry inside. We have work to do, and you have a hearty dinner to prepare for me.¡± Nicole said as we walked faster toward the apartment building.


    I nced at the text message I¡¯d sent Robert as we walked. He¡¯d read it but didn¡¯t respond.


    My suspicions returned, and another bad feeling rose within me.


    Dialing his number, I silently hoped he¡¯d pick. I wanted to hear his voice and be reassured by it, at the very least.


    The first call rang through, but he didn¡¯t answer. When I tried again, it went to voicemail, and fear coursed through my limbs.


    What did this mean? Why wasn¡¯t he-


    ¡°Renee, oh my goodness¡­¡± Nicole abruptly called out, shaking my hand and forcing me to look up.


    We¡¯d already entered the building.


    ¡°Can you see what I¡¯m seeing?¡± She asked, and I blinked twice, staring ahead.


    In front of us was Dn, standing at the entrance of the building where the stairs separated and my jaw dropped open and close.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    He noticed us. His gaze nkly fixed on me.


    A gasp escaping my lips, I examined his appearance, and I noticed he looked pale and tired as if he¡¯d been waiting for a long time.


    He was holding something wrapped, intently watching us approach. As our eyes locked, all thoughts of Robert vanished instantly.


    Every cell in my body was filled with rage as I stared at the motherfucker who¡¯d broken my heart and shattered my future with his words.


    Talk about my day going downhill. Then this fool had to appear out of nowhere.


    What the hell was he doing here?


    What the fuck did he want?!

 Meeting Amanda

    ROBERT


    The woman staring at me from across the table was the pr opposite of the bubbly woman I¡¯d fallen in love with as a teenager.


    She had a mischievous, almost frightening expression, which seemed out of ce in the  small, cozy, expensive restaurant.


    She couldn¡¯t have looked more ridiculous-at least to me-in a skintight dress that exposed too much of her skin and fake curves.


    She¡¯d gone overboard with the dressing tonight, trying to impress me and up her game. But I didn¡¯t care. I never gave a damn.


    On the outside, she was beautiful in a stic way. Her lips were smeared red with lipstick, and heavy makeup covered her face. But on the inside, she was sorelycking. She appeared as a caricature of herself.


    A caricature I despised and loathed with every fiber of my being.


    Just a few years ago, I¡¯d sworn to spend my life with this caricature who¡¯d given birth to my son.


    But now?


    Now, we were strangers, staring at each other from across a table. Despite how warm the building was, I felt ufortable being in the same room as her.


    The tension in the room- at our small table rather-was palpable, and I opened my lips to finally say something, but she beat me to it.


    ¡°Robert, dear, you¡¯ve been staring at me for quite some time now. Aren¡¯t you going to say anything?¡±


    Her voice was smooth as butter, and the hypnotic tone made me snicker.


    She was faking everything-her voice, clothes, pretty much everything. It made me scrunch my nose in disgust.


    If she noticed how irritated I was, she said nothing. Instead, she stretched out her long, well-manicured nails and reached for the ss of sparkling cider she¡¯d ordered. Taking a healthy gulp, she continued to stare at me.


    ¡°Robert, dear¡­¡±


    I hissed as she said my name again.


    ¡°What do you want, Amanda?¡± I asked bluntly, trying not to sound too annoyed, even though my jaw clenched as I spoke.


    Her blue eyes widened for a split second, then she smiled at me and, cing her hands on the table, she began, ¡°Oh, Robert, there¡¯s no need to be so harsh and nonchnt like you¡¯re not even a bit happy to see me.¡±


    Was she being serious?


    Happy to see her? Oh, Christ!


    My fists clenched beneath the table, but I rxed, knowing it was in my best interests to remain calm. On the other hand, Amanda had always known how to make me lose my cool.


    She was familiar with the buttons that irritated me and enjoyed pressing them.


    ¡°Is this some kind of stare-down game between us, Robert?¡± She blinked, giggling as she took another sip of her drink. ¡°Come on, now.¡±


    ¡°Amanda, I hate repeating myself. What do you want?¡±


    ¡°What do I want? What am I doing here? Why did I request this meeting? You¡¯ve asked me these questions since I walked through the door¡­..¡± She snickered. ¡°It¡¯s monotonous and exhausting, ex-husband. Why not add a little spice? You know I¡¯vee to see you because I miss you. We haven¡¯t seen each other in a long time, and I¡­¡± She trailed off, her eyes zing over, and I became more irritated.


    To think I¡¯d canceled my date with Renee because of this. Now, I realized I¡¯d made a terrible decision.


    I knew it was the wrong one the moment I¡¯d sent Renee that text, but I couldn¡¯t backtrack because I¡¯d agreed to see the bitch.


    As persistent as ever, Amanda had scheduled a dinner date with our son and me after blowing up my phone yesterday with various calls and texts I¡¯d refused to acknowledge.


    She¡¯d tagged the invite, Dinner Date as One Big Family, and sent the details to my secretary, who¡¯d shown me earlier this afternoon.


    I wanted to decline initially, but the thought of seeing my son after all these years tugged at my heart, and I epted the invitation.


    So, where was my son? There was no sign of him. Instead, I sat opposite the devil in this dimly lit restaurant, wanting to grip the walls and squeeze them in my hands.


    ¡°I genuinely miss you, Robert. It feels like you¡¯re getting more and more handsome every time I see you. You¡¯re looking great, dear¡­¡± She was flirting with me again, but I stared nkly, not responding to her chicanery.


    She had one of her fingers in her lips, obviously trying to be seductive, but her actions only infuriated me.


    ¡°What did I expect? You¡¯ve gone silent again, and now you¡¯re busy thinking of whatever. What a shame.¡± She muttered after a period of unbearable silence, her lips upturned in a pout that made my skin crawl.


    ¡°Where¡¯s D?¡± I asked, staring at her nkly and anticipating her response.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°You told me you¡¯d bring my son with you. If I remember correctly, this is a family dinner, ording to the invite you sent to my office this afternoon. So, where is he? Or was this a trick?¡±


    ¡°Oh! He canceled. He couldn¡¯te because he had something very important to attend to.¡±


    ¡°Something more important than family?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, yes. ording to him, anyway. What does it matter? When did you start to care about this family, Robert?¡± She paused after making a slight jab. ¡°You barely see your son or check how he¡¯s doing. You only send him money for upkeep, and that¡¯s it. Now you¡¯re iming that family is important to you when you don¡¯t even know the first thing about it.¡±


    ¡°Says someone who¡¯d been fucking another man on her marriage bed while heavily pregnant.¡± I said harshly, without thinking twice.


    ¡°What? Robert!¡± She eximed, her lips quivering as color rushed to her cheeks.


    She looked mortified, her eyes darting around as she tried to see if anyone nearby had overheard. Fortunately for her, everyone in the damned restaurant minded their business.


    ¡°Yes. So, if I don¡¯t care about this family, as you im, I don¡¯t know what to say to someone like you.¡±


    I shrugged and stared her down, a smirk on my face, as I waited for her to say something else. However, she still felt ashamed, and her whole body trembled. I could see the anger pooling in her eyes.


    Thinking back to my harsh words, I briefly closed my eyes, inhaling deeply as I remembered that incident- one of many things Amanda had fucking done to me. God! She was horrible.


    When I opened my eyes again, I noticed she¡¯dposed herself and no longer looked embarrassed.


    ¡°You know we don¡¯t have to be this way every time we see each other, Rob. Years have passed, and surely-¡±


    ¡°Well, I wouldn¡¯t be this way if I wasn¡¯t sitting here with you. You asked for this, Amanda. You brought it upon yourself.¡± I interrupted her, not wanting to listen to her shit anymore. ¡°How did you get the number you called yesterday?¡±


    ¡°Oh, that-¡±


    ¡°Yes, that. How?¡± I asked again, brows quirking in confusion as I tried to recall if I¡¯d given anyone else that number apart from Renee.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what to tell you Robert, but you know I have my way around things. You don¡¯t have to be so surprised.¡±


    ¡°The same way you knew I was in Ondo and booked a flight toe terrorize me, right?¡±


    ¡°I came to Ondo because I wanted to see our son. He¡¯s been living here since he finished college. Your being here was a coincidence. When I first called you, I got your location through a tracker. Sorry if I misled you and gave off stalker vibes.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm¡­¡± I mused, pondering what she¡¯d just told me.


    Even though I wanted to call it a bluff, I knew she was telling the truth this time, and a small sigh escaped my lips.


    ¡°I figured out the number I called was your private number. Don¡¯t ask again how I got it. I¡¯m sick of talking to your jerk of a secretary, and I wanted to hear your voice. I wanted to speak to you directly and inly, but you didn¡¯t answer the phone.¡±


    ¡®I was with my girl.¡¯ I muttered inaudibly to myself as I listened to Amanda¡¯s diatribe.


    ¡°Well, here we are now, and I¡¯m d-¡±


    ¡°d you got a chance to be alone with me, right? You don¡¯t need to say it again.¡±


    ¡°Robert, D would havee, and this would have been a proper family meeting. I told you he had something urgente up, and I¡¯m not leaving Ondo anytime soon. I know you¡¯re not, either. We could reschedule the meeting, and I guarantee he¡¯ll show up. I¡¯ll forcefully drag him with me if I have to.¡±? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°He blew this opportunity, so I¡¯m not optimistic.¡±


    ¡°Robert! Remember, he¡¯s your son. He is a product of your flesh and blood, irrespective of what I¡¯ve done and-¡±


    ¡°Oh, Amanda, just cut it!¡± I interrupted, and she stopped talking.


    ¡°Your tactics in getting me alone worked, but you should also know I will no longer be entertaining you without our son¡­¡± I said, staring at her with disgust. ¡°Rest assured, I know I¡¯m not a bad father because I¡¯ve done more for my son than you could ever do. Strangely, he seems to only listen to everything you say though. I need to leave. There¡¯s nothing else here for me.¡±


    ¡°Robert!¡± She called out, her eyes widening in surprise as she watched me stand but I paid her no heed. Instead, I checked the time on my wristwatch.


    Grabbing my wallet and dropping arge wad of cash on the table, I turned to face her and delivered my final warning.


    ¡°Amanda, stay out of my way. I¡¯ve warned you numerous times and done everything I could to ensure you get the message. But nothing seems to be working.¡± I sighed, done talking to her. ¡°Well, I¡¯ve paid the bill, and you can take the change if you want. Have a nice night.¡±


    I excused myself from the table before she could react, quickly walking away with long strides.


    ¡°You can¡¯t just up and leave me here, Robert!¡± She yelled my name like a maniac, but I continued walking straight toward the exit, not turning back or stopping.


    She was drawing a lot of attention, as she always did, and I could see people staring at her, but it didn¡¯t bother me.


    Amanda was free to do whatever she pleased. She could get all the attention she wanted while acting like the crazy self-centered bitch she was.


    My only regret was canceling my date because of her, and I couldn¡¯t even call to meet with Renee cause it was toote.


    If I called, she¡¯d probably be asleep, and hissing another idea popped into my head, and I acted upon it just as fast as it came.


    When I left the restaurant, I took my phone out of my pocket and turned it on to see a barrage of calls and two texts from Renee.


    Reading through the messages, I could tell she was deeply concerned about where I¡¯d gone, and my heart tightened.


    I had to make amends with my baby girl, and I would.


    Swiping up, I searched for the contact of the manager of the deliverypany who handled my orders, and when I saw his number, I quickly dialed it.


    He answered on the second ring, and walking toward the parking lot where my car was, I began belting out my request.


    ¡°Hello. I want to make a delivery for Miss Renee again¡­.¡±

 Secrets

    RENEE


    ¡®Please ept my apologies, Renee. I wasn¡¯t in the right frame of mind then, and¡­¡¯


    As I thought of Dn¡¯s apologies fromst night, bubbles ofughter rose in my throat.


    Iy back and stared at the ceiling of my room dreamily. My eyes fluttered open and closed as I tried to stop thinking about Dn and the rowdy conversation we¡¯d had the day before, but I couldn¡¯t.


    His demeanor, audacity, and the way he casually guilt-tripped me with his story made me suspect he was up to no good. I never found out his true intentions though and dare say I felt a bit relieved. I didn¡¯t want to know, or did I? Oh well.


    Again, I remembered the useless bouquet of roses he¡¯d brought, and I couldn¡¯t keep the mocking giggle that escaped my lips.


    What the hell? Dn thought he could apologize and bring me flowers, and everything would be alright. Why would he do that all of a sudden?


    He was so pitiful for someone who¡¯d broken up with me without thinking twice. Just thinking about him irritated me and made my skin crawl. Good riddance!


    ¡°I hate you so much, Dn. I fucking hate you¡­¡± I trailed off, muttering loudly. I nced at my bedside. Nicole was still fast asleep.


    She¡¯d have scolded me for thinking about that douchebag if she were awake. She wouldn¡¯t have liked the conversation going on in my head, that was certain.


    My shoulders sagging, and my eyes started darting around, I noticed some pillows on the floor.


    Nicole¡¯s pillows, of course, which she¡¯d kicked aside, most likely during the night. Iughed.


    She did this every night. She was always a restless sleeper.


    I grabbed one of the pillows and sitting on top of it, facing the room¡¯s only window, I began to watch the thick clouds hovering outside.


    I remained focused on the windows as the first rays of sunlight pierced through the ss and danced around the edges.


    The sun¡¯s rays had begun their daily journey across the horizon, as expected.


    The view of the city, the sky, and the sea-everything I could see from my bed, was painted in gold and it  was so lovely that my eyelids fluttered shut dreamily.


    Although I didn¡¯t fall asleep again despite my brain being exhausted. Instead I sat, lids closed and hummed absentmindedly in neutral satisfaction.


    The pinging sound of the apartment¡¯s doorbell reverberated through the room, jolting me out of my trance. I opened my eyes when I heard a knocking sound.


    Nicole groaned, turning and tossing on the bed because she¡¯d heard the loud buzzing noise, and it had most likely disrupted her sleep.


    I ignored the knock at first because I thought it wasn¡¯ting from our door. But the knock sounded again, this time loudly, and I realized I was wrong.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Who could it possibly be?


    I wasn¡¯t expecting anyone, and Nicole would never have anyone this early too.


    The knocking continued, bing louder with each passing second, and I got up to walk out into the living room, slowly sliding off the pillow on the bed, and dragging my nket with me.


    I didn¡¯t get very far when I heard some shuffling behind me. I turned around to see Nicole already awake, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.


    ¡°Nicole, I¡¯m going to get the door. You can go back to sleep.¡± I told her, and she nodded at me.


    I walked from the bedroom and straight to the door, turning the handle sharply and pulling open the door to reveal¡­ A delivery man?


    ¡°A hearty morning to you, Miss Renee.¡± The young man politely smiled as he greeted me, and the corner of my eyes twitched.


    What exactly was he doing here? Who sent this? How did he know my name?


    ¡®He got your name from the delivery package note, of course, Renee.¡¯


    My eyes narrowed, and I looked at him suspiciously. ¡°It¡¯s too early for a delivery, mister. Who sent you and-¡± I stopped as something dawned upon me, and my eyes widened in horror.


    My thoughts wandered back to the first time I¡¯d received a mysterious package right here. It was delivered by this same guy standing in front of me, and-


    This was Robert¡¯s doing.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness!¡± I eximed, a smile on my face and I began to rub my creased forehead.


    How did I not connect the dots so quickly? I was so busy being upset with Dn that I forgot about Robert, our canceled date, and the fact that he hadn¡¯t even called this morning, despite the endless streams of texts and calls I¡¯d left himst night.


    Of course, this was from him. I asked the delivery man, ¡°This is from Mr. rke, right?¡±


    ¡°It is, indeed. Here¡­¡± The delivery man handed me a bouquet and a white box, which I eagerly epted.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, please sign here.¡± He extended a clipboard and pen, and I quickly signed and returned them to him.


    ¡°Thank you very much, ma¡¯am. That will be all.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Thank you, too.¡± I replied quickly, juggling the gifts and closing the door behind me.


    As I began to make my way into the bedroom, I nced at Nicole¡¯s side of the bed to see if she was awake or still sleeping, but lo and behold, her eyes were wide open, and she was sitting upright, staring at me in surprise.


    ¡°What is it?¡± She pointed to the package I was holding.


    ¡°Nothing much.¡± I replied, shrugging as I tried to hide the blush on my cheeks. ¡°It was just a delivery from Robert.¡±


    ¡°Nothing much, huh?¡± She countered and I giggled.


    She began to get up from the bed, with a determined look on her face.


    ¡°I thought you were asleep a few minutes ago.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m wide awake now, as you can see. You received a delivery from your sugar daddy, and it¡¯s not even 7 a. m. yet. Wow!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s well past 7 a. m. and-¡±


    ¡°Let me see!¡± She interrupted in excitement, reaching for the package and grabbing it, she flunged it on the bed.


    ¡°Nicole!¡± I eximed, trying to stop her from tearing into the delivery, but it was toote.


    She¡¯d already opened the white box filled with choctes and other yummy goodies.


    ¡°Oh, choctes! I haven¡¯t eaten one of those in years.¡± She said, and I just rolled my eyes because I could see right through her lies. She had a Snickers barst week.


    As I sat on the bed, reaching for the flower bouquet, I noticed a small white envelope peeking out.


    Robert had left me a note.


    Instead of reading it though, I deeply inhaled the flowers, savoring the sweet scent of the roses and lilies mixed together.


    All of my rage and mixed feelings toward him quickly vanished. If this gift was his way of apologizing to me for the canceled date, he¡¯d done a pretty good job.


    I looked at the room¡¯s wall clock with a small smile. It was almost eight o¡¯clock, and time was flying by.


    ¡°I hope you realize I¡¯m not making breakfast for you, Nicole. I have to get ready for work, and you aren¡¯t leaving until this evening.¡±


    ¡°No issues, Renee. I¡¯ve got some choctes here. For now, it¡¯ll suffice.¡± She said, pushing a bonbon into her mouth.


    ¡°Don¡¯t finish them all!¡± I chuckled as I stood up to go to the bathroom.


    ¡°I won¡¯t!¡± She replied and I smiled in response as I walked away.


    Approaching the bathroom door, I shut the door sharply behind me and turned on the shower, intent on taking a quick bath before getting ready for the day ahead.


    ~~


    ¡°Hello, baby girl.¡±


    My lips stretched into a wide smile when I heard Robert¡¯s deep voice on the other end of the phone, and my heart warmed instantly as my stomach fluttered with excitement.


    My work shift had just ended, and I was on my way home. I was nning to hail a cab when my phone vibrated in my bag.


    A call from Robert! Excitement zinged through me as I picked it up.


    Ever since this morning when I¡¯d received the gifts, and his sweet noote, which I¡¯d read on my way to work, I could only think of him, and now he was calling.


    He¡¯d been thinking about me, too, I could tell.


    ¡°Hello, Daddy.¡± I said as I continued hailing cab after cab.


    ¡°How is my baby girl doing today?¡± I felt my smile grow wider as he called me ¡®baby girl¡¯.


    ¡°I¡¯m doing fine.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear.¡±


    ¡°I know, right? Surprisingly, none of my coworkers asked about you when I came in at work today, and I suspect you had a hand in that, Robert.¡± Heughed heartily, confirming my suspicions.


    ¡°Robert, what did you do? Did you speak with my boss or-¡±


    ¡°Perhaps, maybe not.¡±


    ¡°Robert, you have to stop this!¡± I grumbled, but he just keptughing.


    ¡°How did your day go? Tell me about it.¡±


    I could tell he was diverting the conversation to avoid answering my questions, so I went with it.


    ¡°My day flew by, as it always does. Nothing special, just serving customers, collecting tips, and cleaning up after them. My usual routine.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­¡± He paused. ¡°You sound a little down. Is there a problem?¡± He asked, and I simply shrugged even though he couldn¡¯t see me.


    ¡°Not much at all. I¡¯m just tired, that¡¯s all and add to the frustration of endlessly hailing cabs. No one seems to be going my way.¡± I grumbled, my iling hands dismissing yet another taxi.


    ¡°Are you finished with your shift for the day?¡±


    ¡°I am. On my way home now.¡±


    ¡°Should I send someone to pick you up and-¡± He began to ask, but I cut him off before he could finish.


    ¡°No, Robert, I¡¯m perfectly fine.¡±


    ¡°I should buy you a car and get you a personal driver too. It would save you the stress of-¡±


    ¡°Robert!¡± I yelled, and he justughed deeply from the other end.


    He knew how to get me riled and was doing it very well at the moment.


    Hands going to my forehead and rubbing, I searched around the busy street, looking for a ce to rest for a second so that I could gather my thoughts.


    Fortunately, I noticed a bench nearby. After ensuring there were no distractions, I walked over and plopped myself down on the wooden surface.


    I rested my head against the sturdy frame of the bench, closed my eyes briefly, and took a deep calming breath before letting go and opening my eyes.


    ¡°Are you there, Renee?¡± Robert asked, his voice cutting through my mundane thoughts, and I sighed.


    ¡°Yes, I am here.¡±


    ¡°Did you get my apology gifts? I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t get them to you personally as much as I wanted to. I-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Robert.¡± I cut in.¡±You exined why you couldn¡¯t in your note, and I don¡¯t have any problems with that.¡±


    ¡°Alright, love.¡±


    Love.


    That word from Robert always made my heart race, and I couldn¡¯t wait to tell him how much I adored him as well.


    ¡°Did you happen to see the specifics of our non-negotiable date?¡± He asked and recalling the content of the note he¡¯d sent, I giggled and hummed in the affirmative.


    ¡°Yes, I did.¡± I singsonged; my belly fluttering with warmth again, as a blush rose on my cheeks.


    I had a date with Robert rke this Saturday evening and wouldn¡¯t being home until Monday morning.


    My thighs clenched blissfully at the prospect of spending the weekend with him, and I giggled.


    ¡°My driver wille to pick you up on Saturday afternoon. How does that sound?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fine with me. I¡¯ll use today to prepare and revel in anticipation since I didn¡¯t see you yesterday for reasons only known to you.¡± I pouted and could hear his curse from the other end of the line.


    ¡°You know you have some serious exining to do, Robert. I¡¯ve forgiven you for canceling on me so suddenly, but who is this person who forced you to do it?¡±


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± He trailed off, and I could hear the frustration in his voice, but I wasn¡¯t letting this issue slide.


    ¡°It had to be that woman, right? The woman who called you on-¡±


    ¡°Can we talk when youe over on Saturday?¡± He said, his words rushing out. I suspected he was trying to change the subject.


    He didn¡¯t want to talk about this, whatever it was, but I was determined to find out.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Iplied with his request, letting this argument die until further notice.


    ¡°Bye, sweetheart. See you on Saturday.¡± He softly added before I could say something else.


    ¡°Bye, Robert.¡± I said, then hung up, dropping my phone in my small bag.


    Still sitting on the bench and dropping my head on the backrest, I closed my eyes, letting the cool evening wind brush through my hair.


    What would Saturday evening bring? Would it be lust filled? Would it be nice? Or would it be tense?


    But most importantly, what was Robert hiding from me?

 Hidden Surprises

    ROBERT


    ¡°Please wait a moment, Mr. Bradley.¡±


    I stepped away from the estate manager, grabbing my vibrating phone from my pocket to answer the call.


    As I continued to walk away from the mansion¡¯s busy corridor, the ringing became louder and I looked at the screen, where I saw Renee¡¯s name sh across.


    Swiping the answer button while simultaneously pushing open a set of wooden doors, my eyes darted around and caught sight of the balcony.


    The sky outside was cloudless and a little dark because it was gettingte, but the view was still lovely, and hearing Renee¡¯s voice would make it even better.


    ¡°Robert?¡­.¡± She sounded nervous and confused, making me worry for a split second.


    ¡°Hello, baby girl. Are you okay?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°Why are you asking that? Of course, I am okay.¡± She replied, chuckling on the other end. The sound made me rx again.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t sound alright at first. Is there a problem? Talk to me¡­.¡± I trailed off as I gently closed the door and walked to therge balcony, gripping the railing tightly and staring ahead.


    ¡°Everything is the problem, Robert.¡± She said after a brief moment of silence. Before I could respond, she added, ¡°Where the hell are you?!¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± I couldn¡¯tplete my thought, my eyes falling to the ground floor before returning to the dusky sky. ¡°Are you already at the suite?¡± I asked gently, and she huffed in response.


    ¡°Talk to me, Renee.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am. Add that to the fact that I might be a bit pissed right now, Rob.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Why? You sound sarcastic and nonchnt. I don¡¯t like your tone, especially when I arrive at the suite expecting you to be here. Where are you?¡±


    I leaned against the railing, chuckling, and hummed. ¡°I¡¯m somewhere, but I¡¯ll be with you soon.¡±


    ¡°How soon?¡± She asked and added. ¡°We¡¯re supposed to have a date tonight. Your driver arrived on time to pick me up, and now I¡¯m in your hotel suite, holding a card inscribed with my personal details. There¡¯s no sign of you, and I¡¯m all alone in this big ce.¡±


    ¡°Calm down, Renee.¡±


    ¡°Robert!¡± Her tone was even firmer now. For some reason, the sound made blood rush to my groin, causing me to grumble.


    What this woman did to me. She was angry at my absence, but her pissed-off, sexy voice made me crave her more.


    I chuckled darkly again, my throat bobbing.


    ¡°Robert!¡± She called out again, ¡°Whatever game you¡¯re ying, I just-¡±


    ¡°Be calm, Renee.¡± I interrupted before she got too worked up. ¡°The card you have. I requested it. It¡¯s your key to my hotel suite, and you¡¯re wee to visit whenever you want. I should¡¯ve given it to you long ago, but you now have it.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Where have you gone?¡± She asked, and I could hear some minor scuffle sounds in the background as if she was searching angrily for something.


    ¡°I went to check up on something. I¡¯ll be home soon.¡±


    ¡°What did you go to check up on? Where are you? Tell me, Robert!¡± She continued to pester me, and the grin on my face widened.


    I felt terrible doing this, but she had to be patient. I was bringing her to the mansion tomorrow. All her questions and concerns would be put to rest, but this had to be secret for now.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± Her voice faltered. ¡°You know how much this annoys me-keeping me in suspense or silence like this. Why can¡¯t you tell me where you are? A hint? Or are you nning something special for me tonight?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Are you nning a surprise for me tonight? That¡¯s why you don¡¯t want to say anything. Like the first time you took me on a yacht trip. What¡¯re you nning now? Something different?¡±


    The excitement in her voice was palpable, and my chest tightened sweetly.


    Smiling back, I responded, ¡°I do have a surprise for you, ma cherie. However, you¡¯ll be able to see it tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Robert!¡± She groaned in frustration, but I just snickered.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, baby girl. We have the entire weekend, and you will undoubtedly see your surprise tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± She grumbled, adding, ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for you here.¡±


    ¡°Make yourself at home, and do whatever you want.¡±


    ¡°I will.¡±


    ¡°Would you like me to get you anything on my way back? If you want, I could go grocery shopping. You like cookies, so I¡¯ll buy some and more treats.¡±


    ¡°No, don¡¯t bother yourself with that. Just return in one piece. Alright?¡±


    ¡°Okay, baby. I¡¯ll see you soon.¡±


    ¡°See you soon, too.¡± She said curtly, and she hung up the phone with thosest words.


    I tossed my cell phone back into the pocket of my suit jacket and exited the balcony, taking onest lingering look at the view before me.


    I still had some issues concerning the building, which I had to work on with Mr. Bradley before heading home to meet my girl.


    ~~


    Driving speedily into the hotel¡¯s car garage, I quickly parked, grabbed my briefcase from the backseat, and walked out.


    A porter approached quickly. His hands stretched out to take my suitcase. After exchanging polite greetings, I handed him the bag as we walked into the building.


    ¡°I¡¯m headed to Room 17.¡± I informed the man, who nodded. I waved my hand also at the receptionist, who greeted me with a wide smile.


    ¡°Good to see you again, Mr. rke. I hope you had a good day.¡± Anne, the bubbly front desk receptionist asked.


    ¡°I did, indeed. Thank you very much.¡± I acknowledged, reaching over to her desk and sliding some dor bills. I then asked, ¡°A woman is in my suite, right?¡±


    ¡°A certain Miss Renee, yes. I gave her the card you requested and told her to make herself at home.¡±


    ¡°Good. Thank you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee, and I appreciate the tip.¡± She returned to typing on her keyboard with a polite smile.


    My heart skipped a beat as I walked toward the elevator, thinking about what awaited me.


    A warm fuzzy feeling filled my soul as I wondered what she was up to.


    Was this what being in love felt like? I asked myself, but I knew the answer to that question.


    Ever since she stepped into my life, Renee had brought out these magical feelings I¡¯d never thought I¡¯d experience with someone else-this wonderfully warm and tender emotion that had lurked within my deepest recesses.


    She made me feel alive, not just physically, what with the sex and everything. No! She made me feel emotionally alive as well.


    It was strange and beautiful, and I couldn¡¯t wait to show her the bright side of my world.


    Make her mine¡­ spoil her¡­ cherish andvish her with a love she¡¯d never receive elsewhere¡­ Fuck! This woman possessed my entire soul.


    My smile widened as more images of her shed through my mind, and I chuckled as I approached the open elevator door.


    Once inside, I pressed the button to the seventeenth floor and waited patiently as it slowly rose.


    I stepped out of the elevator as soon as it stopped, the doors sliding open, and drew my gaze to the quiet narrow hallway leading to my suite.


    I approached the porter standing outside the door, obviously waiting for me.


    With my hand extended toward him, I collected the briefcase and mumbled a thank you before tipping him.


    ¡°Thank you, Sir.¡± The man said. ¡°Do have a good night.¡± He finished cheerfully, and with a nod, he took his leave.


    I swiped my card on the suite¡¯s automated door, a slight ping sounding as the door sprang open.


    I stepped inside the dimly lit room, my brows furrowing as I looked around, wondering where Renee was.


    I¡¯d already imagined her standing by the door the moment she heard the ping, but my fantasy was dashed away when she was nowhere to be found.


    Dropping my briefcase on a nearby couch, my hands gripped my tie and tugging roughly till it was free from my neck, I  tossed the ck silk material carelessly on the floor.


    I was already on my way to therge bedroom when I caught a whiff of something delicious and heard what sounded like Renee¡¯s voice. She was singing.


    ¡®What a delightful surprise.¡¯ I thought. My lips widened into a grin, and I began walking to the en-suite kitchen.


    Stepping through the doorway, I watched in amusement as Renee stood before the stove, stirring a pot on low heat.


    As I stared, my gaze trailed over her petite frame, down to her long legs and the curve of her ass.


    Her hips swayed as she danced across the floor, softly humming under her breath, and her strawberry-blonde hair cascaded down her back.


    I noticed she was wearing my shirt. It was oversized, and the material, though droopy, fit her snugly and perfectly.


    Damn! She was stunning. So gorgeous and all mine. My Renee. My property.


    If only I could keep staring at her without moving an inch. I didn¡¯t get such an unobstructed sexy view every day, and I didn¡¯t want to end it so quickly.


    I wanted nothing more than to walk over to her, grab her roughly, and fuck her senselessly against the counter until she was screaming my name, regardless of whether she was cooking or not.


    However, I had to suppress my raging hormones and concentrate on announcing my presence in the most unique way possible.


    Or maybe I could startle her?!


    She still hadn¡¯t noticed me because she was preupied with her cooking duties, and with a smirk on my lips, I began to tiptoe toward her.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± I softly called out, my lips inches from her neck, and as she stiffened. I wrapped my arms around her waist from behind, and she squealed.


    ¡°Robert!¡±


    She yelled,ughing hysterically, as she tried to break free from my firm grip, but I wasn¡¯t letting her go.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness! I felt frightened! When did you get here?¡±


    ¡°Not long ago.¡± I replied, trailing kisses down her neck. She continued giggling, her voice muffled simultaneously, ¡°Why did you creep up on me like that? Don¡¯t do that again. Shit! You freaking scared me.¡±


    ¡°That was the n, baby girl.¡± I mumbled over and over as I inhaled her rosy fragrance, a grin on my lips, ¡°The n¡­ the freaking n¡­.¡±

 Arguments

    RENEE


    ¡°That was the n, baby girl. The n¡­ the freaking n¡­¡±


    I shivered as Robert¡¯s husky voice whispered in my ear, his breath fanning my skin.


    As he trailed kisses down my throat, the sharp stubble of his beard grazed the exposed skin at the side of my shoulders, and I let out a soft whimper.


    He didn¡¯t stop until he reached the crook of my neck, his mouth sucking hungrily at the flesh there and nibbling with his teeth. I felt shocks run through my body like little lightning bolts, making me visibly shudder.


    ¡°Oh, God! Please, Robert.¡± I muttered, pushing gently with my shoulders. ¡°For goodness sake, I¡¯m cooking¡­¡±


    ¡°Good evening to you, too as well, baby girl.¡± He chuckled darkly, and before I could say anything else, Robert¡¯s right hand reached for the spoon I was holding.


    He turned me around, dropped the steel utensil on the kitchen countertop, and pushed me away from the cooking ind.


    ¡°Rob¡­ Robert? What are you doing?¡± I asked, my eyes widening as I looked at him, trying to gauge his expression.


    ¡°Fuck! You are stunning. I stood by the doorway, watching you dance and sway those hips, and I didn¡¯t want to stop for one second.¡±


    ¡°Robert¡­ I¡­¡± I began, but this time he silenced me with a kiss.


    Despite my feeble attempts to struggle and push against him, his huge hands cupping my face held me captive as he deepened the kiss.


    He kissed me greedily, savoring every moment, and I could only moan in pleasure.


    His hands slid behind me, cupping my almost bare ass cheeks and my breasts pressed against his chest. Then his right hand slid up to cup them.


    ¡°Renee, what are you doing to me?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Damn! I could get used to finding you when I get home every day¡­¡± He muttered, pulling his lips away from mine.


    ¡°Me too, Robert. I can¡¯t wait!¡± I suddenly paused and pulled away from him.


    What was I saying? I wondered to myself and looked at Robert, who had a funny expression.


    ¡°Sweetheart, you were saying something.¡± His blue eyes twinkled.


    ¡°It¡¯s insignificant. Just a slip of the tongue and-¡±


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t a slip of the tongue, Renee. I know you want that.¡± He chuckled, hisrge hands running through my hair as he stared at me intently.


    He was warmly smiling at me, his thumb rubbing circles against the smooth surface of my cheekbones. I could see a hint of disappointment in the corner of his eyes.


    Was he put off by my choice of words? Did I say the wrong thing when I denied wanting toe home to him every day and¡­?!


    ¡°Robert¡­ I-¡±


    ¡°By the way, my shirt looks great on you.¡± He interrupted, taking a step back, and my cheeks flushed again.


    I was aware of what he was doing. He was changing the subject, not wanting to continue the previous conversation, and with my shoulders dropping, I went with the flow.


    His dark gaze swept over my body, and my thighs clenched.


    ¡°What¡¯s for dinner? I see you¡¯re preparing a feast.¡± His deep voice rumbled again.


    ¡°Some pasta sauce and chicken. I figured you needed some good home-cooked food.¡±


    ¡°Do you mean for us?¡±


    ¡°For you. You haven¡¯t tasted my cooking, so I decided to whip up something for you. Also, I searched your kitchen cabs but couldn¡¯t find any tangible cooking ingredients-just a few junk foods and fruits. I had to order some groceries. They just delivered them a few minutes ago. What the hell do you eat here?¡±


    ¡°The hotel¡¯s restaurant takes care of my needs, Renee. You don¡¯t need to be concerned.¡±


    ¡°I mean it when I say you need to eat well, Robert.¡±


    ¡°Of course. I could eat you now and be satisfied.¡± He said, his eyes twinkling.


    He was already leaning in for a kiss when I said, sharply diverting and pushing at his chest, ¡°You need to eat. If you want, I coulde by every day and make something for you in the evening and-¡±


    ¡°That would be fantastic!¡±


    ¡°I know, right?¡±


    ¡°If that means seeing you every evening, that¡¯s fine. I do, however, eat well, Renee. I also go to the gym. I¡¯m a health buff who takes pride in staying in shape. That¡¯s why I look younger than I am.¡±


    ¡°Just because you work out doesn¡¯t mean you should eat poorly, Robert.¡±


    ¡°All right, sweetheart. I¡¯m not going to argue with you. Besides, I love how concerned you are about me. It makes me want to-¡±


    The ding of the microwave oven interrupted his speech, and our heads jerked toward it.


    ¡°Exactly at the right time.¡± I giggled as Robert took a step back from me.


    ¡°Go freshen up.¡± I said as I walked to the oven to remove the chicken. ¡°I¡¯m almost finished cooking, and we¡¯ll eat when you get back.¡±


    ¡°Come on,e on. Go!¡± I said again when I looked over and saw he was still standing behind me.


    ¡°I will, baby girl. Arrange the dishes, prepare for me, and don¡¯t leave.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere, Robert.¡± I chuckled as I heard his retreating footsteps and continued with my work.


    ~~


    ¡°This is delicious, Renee.¡± After swallowing arge chunk of pasta, Robert eximed for the umpteenth time. ¡°So, so tasty, my darling-¡±


    We were seated at the suite¡¯s small dining table, digging into the small feast I¡¯d prepared, and Robert seemed to be enjoying the meal so far.


    I smiled as I heard hispliments, and leaning in close, I brushed some stray hair out of his eyes.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± I whispered, and hisrge hand snaked around me, yanking me from my seat and onto hisp.


    ¡°Woah, Robert!¡± I eximed when he caught me off-guard.


    He chuckled, his voice low and deep. ¡°Don¡¯t thank me.¡±


    ¡°Why not? I¡¯m d you¡¯re having a good time. Given that you¡¯re still eating and I¡¯m stuffed.¡±


    ¡°Do you not want to eat any longer?¡± He asked, bringing his fork to my lips, but I shook my head, moving it out of the way.


    ¡°My stomach¡¯s very full, Robert.¡±


    ¡°Alright. So, I was wondering if your offer was still valid?¡±


    ¡°What offer?¡±


    ¡°Regarding youing over every evening and cooking dinner for me. I¡¯d really appreciate it, and-¡±


    ¡°Oh, that!¡± I paused,ughing. ¡°Of course it is. Hopefully, I won¡¯t have extended work shifts or other inconveniences.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. How are things going at work and with Nicole? I¡¯ve barely asked about what¡¯s going on with you.¡±


    ¡°Everything¡¯s fine.¡± I mumbled. ¡°Nicole is doing great, and she told me to say hi. As for work, I¡¯ve already told you it¡¯s going well. Nothing major, but I guess a lot has been going on with you?¡±


    ¡°What exactly do you mean?¡± He asked, clearing his throat and grabbing a nearby napkin.


    ¡°You know what I mean, Robert.¡± I stood up from his thighs and shrugged off his hand around my waist.


    ¡°I was waiting for you to finish eating so we could talk like you promised on Thursday evening.¡± I said, sitting opposite him and staring him down.


    ¡°Renee-¡±


    ¡°Do not Renee me right now, Robert. Let¡¯s talk about it. I recognize that expression on your face, and it¡¯s clear you still don¡¯t want to discuss it.¡±


    My hands reached out to his on the table, but he drew back and sipped his wine before saying anything.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to talk about it, but not right now, Renee.¡±


    ¡°But you said you would! You promised!¡± I protested, my lips trembling. ¡°And I don¡¯t appreciate you breaking your promises.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Renee¡­¡± He drawled, his expression softening. ¡°Do you not trust me, Renee? I don¡¯t like how you look conflicted.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m at a loss for words, Robert. Of course, I¡¯m conflicted. You canceled our date due to a pressing matter. What was it? I keep asking, but you keep refusing to tell me. It¡¯s aggravating, and I hate it.¡±


    ¡°Renee-¡±? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°I hate having to beg and pester you to talk. You wouldn¡¯t have liked it if you were in this situation and I was hiding things. You¡¯d have gone out of your way to find out what I was hiding. You would have done an investigation. But now I¡¯mpletely lost, and you won¡¯t say anything. I look like a fool, and-¡±


    ¡°Renee, please stop saying that.¡±


    ¡°No, I won¡¯t!¡± I half yelled. ¡°This date is off to a bad start. You said you¡¯d tell me where you went on Thursday, but here you are, making excuses and attempting to keep me from asking questions.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t promise you that, Renee. I just said we¡¯d talk.¡±


    ¡°Then talk!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I¡¯m doing, Renee! Fuck!¡± He cursed and abruptly stood as if he wanted to leave.


    With the atmosphere tense, I watched as Robert raked his hands through his hair, muttering incorrigible words as he paced around the room.


    My heart broke even more because I realized he nned to keep this thing a secret from me.


    ¡°You¡¯re keeping secrets. There are dangerous things about you, and you don¡¯t-¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to worry about, Renee. Nothing dangerous. I-¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Alright. What do you want to know?¡±


    His jaw clenched as he said those words, and my heart tightened.


    I knew I was putting him in a difficult situation, but I wanted answers.


    ¡°You went to see that woman on Thursday, right?¡±


    ¡°Which woman?¡±


    ¡°The woman who called while we were out on Wednesday. Is she the same woman you went to see?¡±


    ¡°Yes, s¡­.¡± He responded slowly.


    ¡°Who is she? What did she want? Why did you reschedule our meeting because of her? Does she take precedence over me?¡± I kept firing questions at him, and the silence that followed hung heavy over us.


    Sighing profoundly and walking toward me, he reached out his hands and gently grabbed mine, despite my resistance.


    For a few seconds, he stared at me, gently squeezing my palms, but he didn¡¯t say anything, and my chest tightened painfully.


    ¡°Robert¡­ speak to me. Please-¡± I begged softly, tears welling in my eyes, and I blinked them away.


    What was up with my emotions being all over the ce?


    ¡°I want you to know that you¡¯re the only important person in my life right now, Renee.¡± His soft voice filled the dim room, and my lips quivered.


    ¡°Do you trust me, Renee?¡±


    ¡°Robert¡­ I¡­¡±


    He crouched so our faces met and then said again. ¡°I should put it like this instead. I want you to trust me, Renee.¡±


    ¡°But there are questions you don¡¯t want to answer. There are things about you that you aren¡¯t telling me. You¡¯re withholding something from me.¡±


    ¡°I admit I am, but I will tell you soon. Not today, but perhapster. We¡¯re supposed to be having fun today-this weekend. But then you had to bring this up, and while I know it¡¯s important, I can¡¯t right now. I promise to tell you everything as soon as possible. Let¡¯s just have fun tonight and enjoy each other¡¯spany, okay?¡±


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°Please, Renee.¡±


    When he begged me like this¡­ damn it!


    ¡°All right, Robert.¡± I muttered and averted my gaze.


    ¡°Thank you very much, Renee, for being patient and understanding. I know you¡¯re looking for an exnation. There¡¯s a lot you need to know, I¡¯m aware of that, but I¡¯ll tell you everything in due time.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    With onest squeeze and a small kiss on my knuckles, Robert stood up. ¡°Let¡¯s enjoy tonight. I don¡¯t want you to think about anything else.¡±


    ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll try.¡± I replied, nodding, and returned his smile with a fake one.


    ¡°Come now. I want to spend some time with my girlfriend.¡± He gently yanked on my wrists until I stood up.


    ¡°I have to do the dishes and-¡±


    ¡°The dishes can be done tomorrow. For the time being, I must make amends to you.¡±


    As he spoke, his eyes gleamed, and he dragged me up from my seat.


    As he led me out, I couldn¡¯t help but think about how difficult it would be getting Robert to open up to me.


    My curiosity was getting the best of me and I¡¯d have to conduct my research. Should I or should I not? I wondered.


    My life could change forever if I discovered any information about Robert and this mysterious woman. Was I ready for that?


    Well, I seriously doubted it.

 Boring Weekends

    ROBERT


    Sunday arrived sooner than I¡¯d hoped, bringing a tense atmosphere that I didn¡¯t enjoy.


    Last night¡¯s scuffle between Renee and me had escted quickly, as I should¡¯ve expected.


    Even though I eventually calmed her down, the warm evening was filled with an awkward tension I didn¡¯t know how to handle.


    We¡¯d watched movies, cuddled, and even had sex, but Renee remained distant. She wasn¡¯t herself at all.


    The bubbly, loving, and pestering woman I¡¯d grown to adore had vanished, reced by a quiet, moody, and withdrawn woman.


    She wasn¡¯t avoiding me per se, but she wasn¡¯t saying much either, and it was driving me insane.


    I didn¡¯t like this attitude, and I wasn¡¯t too fond of her silence either.


    ¡®But you were the one who started it. You brought this upon yourself.¡¯


    As I sat on the bed, watching her dress, I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about how to make it up to her.


    What could I do? What could fix this?


    ¡®You know what you should do, Robert. Stop overthinking and start talking to her. You could begin by telling her about your shady past. Then tell her about Amanda and¡­¡¯


    ¡°But I absolutely cannot!¡± I half-yelled through gritted teeth, my gaze fixed on the side of the dressing table, where she was currently applying makeup.


    I couldn¡¯t tell her a thing. At least not right now. Not when, despite her reservations, I wanted this to be a long-term, permanent rtionship.


    I was still trying to build a beautiful rtionship with this woman, who had waltzed into my life and turned it upside down-but in the best way possible.


    My gaze was still fixed on her and I murmured words of gratitude when I saw that she hadn¡¯t notice me talking to the air or my unusually explosive outburst.


    I examined her clothes, my gaze wandering over her banging body.


    The ck cut-out dress highlighted her beautiful curves and, as always,plimented her wavy hair cascading down her back.


    The material hugged her hips beautifully, and the sun rays reflecting from the open balcony window did an excellent job of making the fabric shimmer. Even though she had her back to me, her gaze fixed on therge concave mirror, I knew this bodice held the contours of her supple breasts in ce.


    Darn it! But Renee was breathtaking. Sometimes I wondered how I¡¯d gotten her so easily. As if she¡¯d been served to me on a tter that I hadn¡¯t even hesitated to devour immediately.


    The thought made my groin lurch involuntarily, and I groaned, dragging my eyes away from the temptress in front of me.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I drew my gaze to where she stood as she called out, her soft pillowy voice filling the room.


    ¡°Yes, Renee.¡± I croaked out, and she didn¡¯t reply at first.


    Just when I wanted to say something again, I heard her, ¡°Renee? Just Renee? Hmmm¡­¡±


    ¡®Here we go again.¡¯ I muttered to myself as I began to walk toward her, my feet springing up from the bed.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sweetheart. I didn¡¯t mean it that way. I just-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m not upset.¡± She cut in. ¡°Just help me fix this ne. My nails are preventing me from doing anything.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t upset? Well, I¡¯d be damned.


    I noticed how moody she looked in the mirror, and she was probably eating herself up inside.


    With my failing to answer her questions as promisedst night, to the tense and awkward situation between the two of us all day, and now I just had to fuck everything up again by doing this.


    My heart suddenly tightened, and a whish of painful emotions filled my entire body.


    ¡°Here, take it.¡± She interrupted my thoughts once more. As I collected the ne, our fingers lightly brushed.


    I wiped away a knowing smirk that crept up my lips when I heard her gasp a little.


    My gaze was drawn to the simple but intricate diamond ne in my hand, and that¡¯s when I realized it was the jewelry I¡¯d purchased for her.


    The one with the initial R engraved on it-a letter that represented our matching names. After our first parting, I¡¯d gotten her this sparkling customized essory, and it¡¯d cost me a fortune.


    It was a fortune well spent though.


    Taking another step forward until I stood close behind her, I wrapped the ne around her neck.


    ¡°You look amazing, sweetheart.¡± I said as I kissed the crook of her neck. ¡°Absolutely breathtaking. The most gorgeous creature I¡¯ve ever seen.¡±


    I quickly snaked my hand around her waist, pulling her toward me, and she giggled softly.


    ¡°Rob¡­ Robert¡­¡±


    That giggle-the sound of herughter made my heart soar.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    This was such a perfect moment. So perfect and-


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± She called out, more softly this time, almost as if she was afraid to say my name. It made my jaw clench.


    ¡°Yes, baby girl?¡± My hand on her waist tightened as I looked in the mirror, and our gazes locked.


    Her lips parted, and she stared nkly at me with shiny brown orbs that had so many questions buried deep within them.


    Her eyes widened, and whirling around, she stared me down and yelled, ¡°Robert! You¡¯re wearing jeans and a T-shirt!¡±


    ¡°Yes. You didn¡¯t notice? Is there something wrong with it?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t notice at all. You look handsome, though. This is your second time wearing em¡¯ jeans, and I like how you look. I¡¯m used to seeing you in your thousand-dor suit most of the time, but this looks damn good on you, I must admit.¡±


    Her eyes sparkled as they looked into mine, and I gave her a wide grin.


    However, there was something about her expression-something I couldn¡¯t quite pin down.


    It wasn¡¯t easy at times to read her emotions, but I noticed her features appeared rxed and happy now.


    This was exactly what I wanted. Not the tense expression she¡¯d had all night.


    With a quick move, I pushed her back till she hit the wall and swiftly pressed my lips against hers.


    She tensed briefly, and I thought she¡¯d push me away. But then she melted into the kiss, tenderly closing her mouth around mine.


    I let out a low growl as her arms snaked around my neck, wrapping tightly around it.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t let go, baby girl, I won¡¯t be held ountable for what I¡¯ll do next.¡±


    My voice became husky as I spoke the words, causing her lips to part and her breathing to quicken.


    ¡°What would happen? You¡¯ll have no choice but to fuck me, right?¡± She asked, her cheeks blushing profusely as she bit her lips seductively.


    Sex was not a deal breaker for Renee, and given how heavily she was flirting with me, I desperately wanted toply with the request.


    However, we¡¯d both been nning to leave. Yet, here we were. If I put her up against this wall, I could-


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± I sighed and stepped back, her arms dropping from my neck. ¡°You realize we have an important ce to be, right?¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± She mumbled as she began to walk back to the dressing mirror. ¡°Somewhere important that I still don¡¯t have any idea about.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a surprise, love.¡± I reassured her, grabbing her wrist. At the same time, she grabbed her small clutch purse, and we both made our way out of the suite.


    ¡°A surprise indeed.¡± Sheughed lightly, looking at me briefly, ¡°You never disappoint, so I know this¡¯ll be worth it. I can¡¯t wait to find out what it is.¡±


    ¡®Of course. Prepare to be stunned.¡¯ I thought to myself, a grin on my lips.


    She returned her gaze forward and continued walking, with me keeping pace and enjoying the supple view of her bouncing ass.

 The Stalker

    All it takes for people to go insane is one night alone with themselves and their greatest fear. ¡°Hex¡± by Thomas Olde Heuvelt.


    ~~


    HOTEL DE GRANDE, ORLANDO, FLORIDA.


    August 18th. 2***


    17:25pm. GMT-5.


    ~~


    AMANDA


    I had to do something, and it had to be soon.


    The sound of my stiletto heels kept striking the car¡¯s floorboard, and it echoed alongside the eerily soothing music sting from the vehicle¡¯s speaker system.


    Ever since I¡¯d driven into this hotel parking lot after getting Robert¡¯s exact location by tracking his cell phone number, I¡¯d known there was no turning back.


    The nagging feeling that I was about to discover a shocking revtion bored a hole in my mind, and sure enough, I¡¯d gotten what I¡¯d signed up for.


    ¡°What the hell?¡± I murmured as I continued staring at Robert and the strawberry blonde-haired bimbo walking next to him.


    The woman he was fucking recently and spending extravagant amounts of money on, ording to the information I got from my private informant.


    As I watched themugh and chatter happily, various emotions-rage, hurt, and jealousy-racked my innermost being.


    When he leaned in close and ced a chaste kiss on the bitch¡¯s lips, I lost it and identally banged my fists on the steering wheel in a rage. I was startled when my car honked from the contact.


    I took deep breaths, willing myself to rx, and looked out the window to see if anyone had heard the honking sound, which, thankfully, no one had.


    Robert and the girl with him were still engrossed in their conversation, oblivious to my presence and the fact that I was watching them from across the parking lot like a demented stalker.


    I stared at them, my stomach churning with jealousy and my teeth mping down on my lips in annoyance.


    With his hands on her waist and the smile radiating off her face, their intimacy and familiarity were undeniable.


    He was talking to her and another man who¡¯de to stand in front of them. My eyes were glued intently as they spoke.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    The man handed Robert what appeared to be a bunch of keys, and after exchanging some farewell pleasantries, he was gone.


    Was this bitch the best thing Robert coulde up with?


    After all these years of being single with no woman by his side- something I secretly basked in-he dared to start dating a much younger woman.


    A woman in her early twenties, half his age, and someone he could have fathered! What the heck?!


    ¡®Or perhaps he now has a fetish for dating younger women. What do you think?¡¯ My subconscious chimed in the question, and I hissed.


    The thought alone made me sick, but as I watched him lead the bitch to her side of the car, I was ovee with envy, longing, and loneliness.


    He was so gentlemanly with her, so loving and caring that I was transported back to when he treated me the same way.


    Back when he¡¯d adored me and revered the ground I walked on.


    ¡®But, Amanda, you messed up so badly. You cheated, and he med himself for years. He med himself for being unable to provide and give you the love you desired, and what did you do again? You betrayed him once more. It¡¯s you-¡®


    ¡°Please, please!¡± I yelled at myself, my head spinning as I stared straight ahead.


    They were no longer standing outside, as they¡¯d both gotten inside the car. Robert had already started the ignition, with the vehicle driving away, but still I kept staring, waiting until the taillights went out.


    I suddenly exhaled-not in relief, but in annoyance, also in disbelief at myself and the dark thoughts lurking at the back of my mind.


    Robert had gone years without dating a single woman. I¡¯d never seen a public headline about him with another woman, which relieved my soul immensely.


    I¡¯d fucked around with a few men, even going exclusive with some to make him jealous, but Robert had always remained single.


    He¡¯d focused on business, working his way up and bing so wealthy and powerful that the entire global financial industry trembled before him.


    He was well-known both in the United States and abroad, and I fought back the tears as I realized I¡¯d never enjoyed this side of him.


    ¡®But you do. He provides you with a wealthy alimony allowance, and even though you squandered part of your son¡¯s inheritance, he still caters to your every need-whenever you ask.¡¯


    ¡°But it¡¯s not enough!¡± I half-yelled, fists again on the steering wheel. ¡°It¡¯s not fair that she enjoys this loving, wealthy side of him while I get nothing. I remember being with Robert when he was poor and had nothing. I¡¯d adored him and-¡±


    ¡®Did you? Remember how you cheated on him with his best friend? On the marital bed you both shared? He gave you another chance, but you blew it.¡¯


    ¡°I don¡¯t give a fuck!¡± I half-yelled again, my long, manicured nails reaching for my hair and scattering the rough, packed bun.


    ¡°What do you think about all the times he was too busy to spend time with me after I got pregnant? He was always buried in work, and now suddenly, I¡¯m the viin?¡±


    ¡®He was only trying to provide for the family, Amanda. I apologize for your raging hormones, but-¡®


    ¡°I don¡¯t give a fuck!¡±


    ¡®You weren¡¯t even patient, Amanda. You said you moved on after your divorce, whereas he did not. Why can¡¯t you just let this man be?¡¯


    ¡°Oh, shut it! Robert¡¯s mine!¡± I eximed, fighting another internal battle as my chest heaved, ¡°From high school until the day we exchanged wedding vows, we swore to be with each other until death do us part. He¡¯s mine! He doesn¡¯t get to be with another woman, let alone her!¡±


    ¡®But¡­¡¯ My subconscious started up again, but I quickly silenced the voices in my head.


    I grabbed my phone from the passenger seat, turned it on, and searched for the tracking app I¡¯d installed on his car.


    My relentless stalking was far from over, and I had more reasons than ever to get him back.


    Even if it meant dealing with that pathetic girl he was messing around with and putting an end to her. So be it!


    ¡°Come on¡­e on¡­¡± I muttered, my fingers iling around on the screen, and an iing call came in just as I clicked on the app.


    It was Dn, my son-our son.


    The rage and anger I¡¯d felt earlier dissipated as I swiped at the screen and answered the phone, saying, ¡°Hello, my darling boy. How are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Good day, mother. There¡¯s an issue, and¡­¡± His familiar, shaky voice trailed off, and I detected a frantic undertone in the way he spoke as if there was trouble, which there was.


    ¡°What¡¯s the problem?¡±


    ¡°Mother, listen. Will you?¡± He asked, and nodding, I hummed in response as I listened to him speak.


    At the same time, I could only wonder what he¡¯d done this time, and I hoped it wasn¡¯t anything serious like thest.

 Commitments

    RENEE


    ¡°Are we there yet?¡± I asked impatiently as Robert continued leading me to wherever his hands covering my eyes.


    We¡¯d been walking for nearly a half hour since he¡¯d pulled over by the side of the road, and I had no idea where we were or where he was taking me.


    Because his nose nuzzled the soft strands of my hair, his words were muffled, but I heard him say, ¡°Yes, we are.¡±


    ¡°Then let me see.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± He muttered, kissing my right cheek chastely before removing his hands from my face, and I softly gasped.


    My vision was distorted and hazy at first, so adjusting took some time, but it soon cleared.


    ¡°Woah, Robert!¡± I eximed as I stared at the magnificent building in front of me.


    It was a mansion-a huge structure-the kind where wealthy people lived with their families over generations. My eyes widened even more.


    The view was breathtaking, and the mansion stood proud, its massive facade reflecting the evening sky above. The dawning sunset painted the sky with orange and purple hues, and I wondered if I was imagining this.


    I looked around, admiring the well-kept garden surrounding the massive house.


    By the left, an arched top gate was the entrance and probably where we came in from. To the right was an old-fashioned fountain surrounded by white benches, with water sshing in the air.


    ¡°Wow! Where are¡­¡± As I turned around, I saw Robert waving at a man dressed in a dark suit who¡¯d appeared from inside the building.


    Who was that man?


    Was he one of Robert¡¯s employees watching over this ce? As my gaze shifted from Robert to him, I wondered incredulously.


    As the man approached us with a wide grin, Robert grabbed my hand and smiled reassuringly.


    ¡°Good day, Mr. Bradley. How are you?¡± Robert asked cheerfully, sping the man¡¯s extended hands.


    ¡°Excellent, Mr. rke. And you?


    ¡°I¡¯m doing fine.¡±  Robert replied as he wrapped his arms around my shoulders and added, ¡°This is Miss Renee, my lovely girlfriend.¡±


    He called me his girlfriend with such warmth that I blushed and looking up at him, his eyes twinkled.


    ¡°Is this the infamous Miss Renee?¡± The older gentleman asked, and Robert chuckled while I continued to stare at him, this time in confusion.


    ¡°Infamous, Miss Renee?¡± Robert must have talked to or told him about me.


    ¡°Nice to meet you, Miss Renee, and wee home.¡±


    ¡°Home?¡± I blurted as I epted the man¡¯s outstretched hands, my gaze still on Robert. I waited for him to say something, but he didn¡¯t.


    ¡°I think that will be all for now, Mr. Bradley.¡± Robert finally said, clearing his throat, and the still-smiling man nodded.


    ¡°We will be inside with you shortly. You can go on ahead.¡± Robert finished, and the gentleman returned to the building with another nod.


    With his left arm wrapped around my waist, Robert led me toward the water fountain.


    As we walked, my curiosity soon got the best of me, and I asked sharply, ¡°Who was that, Robert?¡±


    ¡°That was the estate manager. He¡¯s the realtor who sold me this ce.¡± He said as we stopped by the fountain.


    ¡°Okay. So¡­¡±


    His arm slid across my shoulder, spinning me around twice until I faced him.


    He was staring at me tenderly, his hands going to my face and cupping my cheeks, but he was still not saying anything as I¡¯d expected.


    ¡°What is this beautiful ce, Robert?¡± I asked again. ¡°Mr. Bradley stated-¡±


    ¡°This is what I¡¯ve been nning for you these past few days, Renee.¡± He cut me off before I could finish, and I scoffed at what he said.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    His expression changed again, and his hands began to roam all over my body as if looking for something.


    ¡°Robert, what is this ce?¡± I asked again, giggling at his tickles. ¡°Speak to me.¡±


    ¡°Wee home, Renee.¡± He said with a grin, and my head spun.


    Everything was starting to make sense.


    He¡¯d been here Saturday evening when I¡¯d called and pestered him to tell me where he was. This was the surprise he¡¯d promised me. The-


    ¡°Oh my! You mean you-¡±


    ¡°I got us a ce. A home.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t understand. How? When?¡± I gaped,pletely dumbfounded, as I looked around.


    ¡°I bought this ce a few days after I arrived in Ondo before we reconciled. I¡¯d nned it beforeing to this city, and it was one of the first steps toward getting you back.¡±


    ¡°Rob¡­ Robert¡­¡± My lips quivered.


    ¡°I bought this ce because I wanted to be in Ondo with you permanently. If you want to live in this city indefinitely, that¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll be right here with you.¡±


    Tears burned at the back of my eyes as I looked back at the mansion. I asked softly, ¡°Do you mean this, Robert? You don¡¯t care about your business headquarters in New York or-¡±


    ¡°Renee, I¡¯m my own boss. I can do whatever I want, and I could easily relocate my headquarters to any location-any city.¡±


    ¡°Wow.¡±


    ¡°I purchased this property to show you my dedication andmitment, Renee. I¡¯m intent on building our rtionship, and I¡¯ve already made you the center of my universe just so you know. Everything I¡¯m doing now is because of you. I know there are still things you need to know about me, and I¡¯m sorry I haven¡¯t told you yet, but I will in due time. Never doubt my feelings for you, Renee. Never question them. I adore you, and¡­¡±


    As my mind spun, his words trailed off, fading into nothing.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    I caught sight of his pursed lips as he locked his gaze on me, obviously waiting for me to say something- anything. But I couldn¡¯t make a sound.


    I was stunned, and it took me about a minute toprehend what he¡¯d just said and recover from the shock he¡¯d inflicted on me.


    Robert purchased a property here. In Ondo-our house. Just like he¡¯d called it.


    He left New York to look for me after our first parting, and what had started slowly was blossoming into this strong connection between us.


    Robert loved me without a doubt. He cherished me so much that he wasmitting to me.


    Damn! It was all too much to process. Everything felt surreal.


    ¡°Renee, is everything okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes¡­¡± I rasped and took a step closer to him. I threw myself into his arms, tears flowing freely down my face effortlessly as I hugged him.


    ¡°Renee! Are you crying?¡± He asked as he gently patted my back, trying to calm me down, ¡°Why are you crying? Stop! It bothers me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m shedding tears of joy because this is too much, Robert.¡± I continued, sniffing against his broad chest. ¡°You¡¯re doing all of this for me, and-¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯ll do it all again, Renee. I¡¯ve never felt more certain of anything in my life.¡±


    ¡°Fuck! Robert. I love you.¡± I muttered, my teary eyes blinking as I continued whispering the L word over and over again. ¡°I love you so much, it hurts.¡±


    ¡°I love you too, baby girl. I fucking love you so much. Renee¡­¡± He mumbled huskily, his hands snaking up my neck, and I gasped.


    ¡°Robert¡­ yes?¡± I croaked out and felt him softly grip my hair and bring our faces close together.  He then ced his lips on mine and sensually kissed me.


    My eyelids fluttered close as I melted into him, giving him my all and everything I had.


    How could I let this nearly perfect man go?


    We¡¯d grown this bond in such a short time, and I began to wonder what would¡¯ve happened to me if he hadn¡¯t appeared in my life at the time he did.


    What would I be if he didn¡¯t exist? I had no answer.


    In this maic moment, with his arms wrapped around my small body, safely cocooning me, I realized how much I adored this man, despite his waning secrets.


    I knew I wanted to be with him forever, and there was no way I was letting my feelings for him fade again like I had thest time we said our goodbyes.


    Never again, Renee. Never again!

 Jealousy Streaks

    RENEE


    ¡°Fuck. Renee. You¡¯ll. Be. The. Death. Of. Me!¡± As he thrust deeper into my pussy, Robert growled, his eyes screwed shut in ecstasy.


    He had my legs wrapped around his waist as he fucked me hard against the tiled wall of one of the mansion¡¯s bathrooms.


    We¡¯d just finished a quick tour of therge house some minutes ago, and after excusing ourselves from Mr. Bradley, the realtor, Robert dragged me into one of the rooms and proceeded to have his way with me.


    ¡°Oh, Renee!¡± He cried out again, this time with his eyes open, as he continued to plunge his dick inside of me mercilessly.


    ¡°Yes, Daddy!¡± I moaned loudly, my nails digging into his back as he stretched my walls, going in and out and repeating the movement that had my legs shaking fervently.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to fuckinge!¡± Robert growled, his right hand cupping one of my freed breasts, and he started pumping faster and harder, his pace quickening.


    ¡°Yes, Daddy!¡±


    ¡°Fucking pussy. Fucking mine!¡± Robert yelled hoarsely, his voice breaking as he gasped, and suddenly he stilled as he orgasmed.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± As he filled the condom, he grunted, his whole body shuddering and my climax hit at the same time.


    My quivering legs shook as I screamed and arched my back against the wall.


    He resumed his thrusts, pounding away until he¡¯dpletely emptied himself, and then he copsed on top of me, his head resting on my shoulders.


    ¡°Oh, Renee¡­¡± He inhaled deeply, his voice husky.


    ¡°Yes¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve splendidly christened the new house, don¡¯t you think?¡± He winked, and I grinned, ¡°Yes, we have, and cheers to more christening.¡±


    ¡°Of course! Damn! Baby girl, I can¡¯t wait to fuck you in every room of this mansion. Every ce, and I¡¯ll make sure you scream my name without mercy.¡±


    ¡°Robert!¡± I burst outughing.


    ¡°Will I ever get enough of you, sweetheart?¡± He joined in myughter, sliding his dick out, and I gasped at the empty feeling he had left behind.


    ¡°I have no idea, Robert.¡±


    Dropping my thighs from his waist, I stepped back while he disposed of his condom and washed up.


    Feeling hypnotized, I stared at his beautiful butt as he dressed. The two round mounds were so perky and strong that I gulped again. I clenched my thighs as my gaze slid up to his well-defined back muscles and abs.


    Despite his age, Robert was a fine specimen, and I knew I¡¯d never tire of staring at him.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on in your head, baby girl?¡± His deep voice floated through my thoughts, and when I looked up, he¡¯d already turned and was staring at me with half-lidded eyes and a cheeky grin.


    ¡°Not much at all.¡± I lied through my teeth, straightening myself against the wall, dragging my rumpled dress down, and began walking to the toilet.


    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡±


    ¡°The toilet. I also need to wash and-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± He abruptly cut me off, and my brows quirked in confusion.


    ¡°Huh?! Why?¡±


    ¡°Because I always want you wet and ready for me, Renee. I¡¯m not done with you¡­¡± He trailed off, smothering me with an intense gaze.


    Feeling a flush creep up my cheeks, I rolled my eyes and knelt on the floor, looking for my panties, which he¡¯d discarded sometime during our lustful shenanigans, but-


    ¡°Are you looking for these?¡± I heard him ask, and when I looked up, I saw him holding myce panties between his fingers.


    As he waved the fabric in front of me, he had a wicked smile.


    Gritting  my teeth, I straightened and stepped toward him.


    ¡°I am, indeed.¡±


    ¡°I guessed as much. However, this pair of panties now belongs to me. They are in my possession.¡±


    I let out a frustrated hiss as he smirked.


    ¡°Robert, please give them to me.¡± I tried to protest by raising my hands to grab them, but he wouldn¡¯t let go.


    Instead, he brought the panties to his nose and inhaled deeply, his brows furrowed.


    ¡°You smell wonderful, as usual. So heavenly and intoxicating. You know how much I like your particr scent, and I already have a collection. I¡¯m going to add one to it.¡± He finished with a wink, tucking the panties in his pocket and all I could do was clench my still-trembling thighs.


    I was supposed to be enraged and demand my panties. But instead, I was getting wetter, and I couldn¡¯t be mad at Robert because his words got me so sexually aroused.


    ¡°Stay wet and needy down there for me, baby girl, but you should wash and arrange your face. Because of me, your makeup is aplete disaster.¡±


    Of course! I can only imagine.


    ¡°Pftttt¡­¡±


    ¡°Be quick about it. I need to discuss some issues with Mr. Bradley. You could use the free time to tidy up.¡±


    ¡°All right, whatever. I¡¯ll be with you shortly.¡±


    Chuckling, he blew me a kiss and then walked out of the bathroom, closing the door behind him and leaving me alone.


    Sighing, I hurriedly pulled down my dress and walked to the sink. I began to turn on the water, but my hands froze when I noticed something nearby.


    Robert¡¯s phone, which he¡¯d thrown down earlier, was on the bathroom countertop, next to his wallet.


    I returned my gaze to the sink, ready to continue cleaning, but then a chilling thought urred to me, and I dragged my gaze back to the phone again.


    Gently, I grabbed the device with shaky hands and turned it on.


    It was password protected.


    ¡°Well, shit!¡± I cursed as I stared at the alphabet keys, my mind racing as I contemted what to do, and then it clicked.


    I typed his name with shuddering fingers, ncing at the closed door every second, hoping the phone would open, but it didn¡¯t.


    ¡°Shit! Shit!¡± I kept repeating under my breath as my heart sank, and I tried different names-from his surnames to business names to initials and random numbers-but nothing worked.


    ¡®Try your name.¡¯ My subconscious suggested, and I was initially skeptical, but then the phone opened.


    It worked! Fuck!


    ¡°Wow!¡± I gasped, and my heart pounded at the realization that Robert had used my name.


    Even though I knew I shouldn¡¯t be snooping around and checking his phone-because this was bad-I couldn¡¯t help myself because my curiosity was getting the best of me.


    I was curious about the identity of the mysterious caller. I wanted to know about the woman he¡¯d seen a few days before-the day he¡¯d canceled our date.


    My blood boiled with jealousy, and I swiped the phone¡¯s screen quickly, first checking his messages.


    Nothing seemed suspicious there, and the inbox was full of texts from me, making me smile ruefully.


    Still scrolling, I decided to check his contact information, and there I was, met with shocking news: my name was the only number saved.


    Why would Robert keep only my name on this device? Did this imply he was concealing something sinister from me, and that¡¯s why he¡¯d done this?


    He knew I¡¯d snoop around someday, so he¡¯d probably transferred all his contacts and other important information to another device.


    ¡®You¡¯re overthinking again, Renee. He could have a much better reason for this. He¡¯s probably reserved this phone just for you.¡¯


    ¡°Or this just shows that he¡¯s really keeping something from me?¡± I countered the voice in my head, and with my jaw clenched, I slowly swiped at the screen, beginning to check the call logs.


    That¡¯s when I noticed a slew of missed calls from a specific number and a few outgoing ones.


    This specific number had to be the woman¡¯s phone number he¡¯d refused to answer.


    She¡¯d called him on this device-on this cell phone, if I¡¯m not mistaken-so she had to be the one.


    The call log revealed that he¡¯d finally answered some of her calls, indicating they¡¯d been talking and calling each other regrly. This information tore at my heart.


    I-


    ¡°Renee! Are you okay in there?¡± Robert shouted from outside.


    I froze, my lips trembling as I considered what to say to him.


    ¡°I-¡±


    ¡°Are you almost finished? It¡¯s gettingte, and we must return to the hotel.¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ yeah. Almost. Please give me a few minutes.¡± My heart pounded in my chest as I croaked out a response.


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll be waiting.¡± He said, and I exhaled in relief when I heard footsteps fade away, most likely his and Mr. Bradley¡¯s.


    Calming myself, I quickly grabbed my small purse and pulled out my cell phone, which I swiped open.


    I looked down at the two devices in my hands, my mind racing as I pondered what to do.


    The unsaved number from Robert¡¯s cellphone stared back at me, and I had no idea what to do at first, but something clicked again.


    I needed her phone number to get her name and continue my investigation.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    I sprang into action, writing the number in my phone¡¯s notebook, and after double-checking that it was correct, I turned it off and ced it in my purse.


    After that, I grabbed Robert¡¯s wallet from the countertop, reced his phone, and exited the bathroom.


    My stomach churned with unease at what I¡¯d done. My mind was racing with so many questions, but this was probably for the best.


    I needed answers-so many of them. And if Robert wouldn¡¯t give them to me, then I had no choice but to take matters into my own hands.

 The Invitation

    ROBERT


    The ticking of my office wall clock brought my thoughts back to the present, and I sighed as I listened to the client seated across my desk.


    He was the construction manager in charge of my Ondo office renovation.


    I¡¯d told Renee over the weekend that I could make Ondo my business headquarters, and I was following through with it.


    Mr. Ryan, a close friend who worked in the Ondo office, had referred me to the man. He was in his early fifties and seemed to be the right fit for the job.


    The man rambled on and on about the changes the building would require and the renovations that¡¯d be done.


    With his salt-and-pepper hair and a grin on his face, I decided not to focus on anything else but what he was saying.


    I paid close attention to everything he said and even took notes to avoid forgetting anything important. After all, I didn¡¯t want this project to fail because it was my best yet.


    ¡°When are you going to start? Also, how long will it take us to finish the remodel? You haven¡¯t given me a time estimate.¡±


    He nodded curtly before clearing his throat.


    ¡°Well, normally, I have a three-month deadline for renovationpletion, but given howrge this project is and the fact that I have to run through some other things, I can¡¯t give a specific estimated time for it.¡±


    ¡°All right, so¡­¡±


    ¡°As for when my team and I would begin, if it¡¯s okay with you, we should be able to start next month. We¡¯ll probably be halfway through by the end of the year. We¡¯ll need the entire year and possibly some months after that. I¡¯m estimating five to six months forpletion because¡­¡± He paused and looked at me expectantly, his eyes wide and questioning, as if he expected me to chirp in something.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    I leaned forward on my desk and asked Mr. Ryan, who was also present and sitting beside the construction manager, ¡°What¡¯s your take on this, man?¡±


    ¡°Well, it sounds okay.¡± Mr. Ryan said, straightening in his chair. ¡°I¡¯ve worked with him and have confidence in his ability to deliver. That¡¯s why I referred him to you. The only thing I ask is that you give him enough time so that you can get the best results, which I¡¯m confident you will.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± I replied and turned back to the construction manager. ¡°I think we have a deal.¡±


    I could tell he was excited to take on this job by the wide grin on his face.


    ¡°I appreciate it, Mr. rke. This project means a lot to me, and I promise to give it my all!¡± Standing up, he extended his right hand for a shake, which I politely epted.


    ¡°Wonderful.¡± I muttered with a smile and turned to Mr. Ryan. ¡°Thanks for the reference.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re most wee. And, lest I forget, I have an invitation for you.¡± With an amused grin, he pulled a ck card from his pocket and handed it to me.


    I took the invitation card from him, my eyes narrowing as I tried to figure out what it could be.


    ¡°Please ept this from Mrs. Ryan and me. We¡¯re holding our annual fundraiser here in town to raise money for charity for an important cause. It¡¯s a masked ball, and it¡¯s a big one. I hope to see you there with a lovely woman wrapped around your arm.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡±


    ¡°Yes. I don¡¯t think you¡¯ve attended any formal events since moving to Ondo. It would be an honor to have you at the ball.¡±


    ¡°I see. Well, thank you.¡± I said, ncing at the invitation card before dropping it on the desk.


    At the same time, my office phone began to ring, and when I looked at it, I saw that it was my secretary calling.


    ¡®Great timing.¡¯


    ¡°Would you please excuse me?¡±


    Mr. Ryan waved me away while the construction manager bowed in response, and I swiped the call button, cing the phone on my ear.


    ¡°Yes, what¡¯s the problem?¡±


    ¡°Good day, sir, and please ept my apologies for disturbing you. Someone¡¯s here to see you.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡± I asked, my brow furrowed already.


    ¡°A woman who will not leave until she has her say. I tried to exin that you were busy, but she insisted.¡±


    My frown became even more pronounced, as did the irritation brewing inside me.


    ¡°Can you tell me her name?¡±


    ¡°Normally, she calls the office, and her voice is quite familiar, but I don¡¯t know her name. She¡¯s refusing to reveal anything. She ims to be anonymous.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my God!¡± I cursed, my mind racing because I knew who this was.


    My ex-wife. Amanda, the devil in human form. What did she want? After I¡¯d told her to stay away from me, it appeared she didn¡¯t get the memo or was refusing to follow it. Now she had toe to my office? Damn!


    ¡°Sir? Are you all right? You¡¯re not saying anything.¡± My secretary asked, her voice tinged with concern.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. After three minutes, send her in. Let me summarize the conversations with my clients here.¡±


    ¡°Okay, sir. She¡¯ll be there shortly.¡±


    ¡°This is a signal for us to leave, I guess?¡± The construction manager asked as he gathered hs materials and I nodded slowly.


    Extending my hand again, I shook Mr. Ryan¡¯s hand, and we exchanged farewell pleasantries before I followed the two men to the door.


    ¡°Hope to see you at the masked ball, Robert.¡± Mr. Ryan whispered again as he patted my back before heading out the door.


    ¡°I¡¯ll certainly be there.¡± I affirmed, and I watched as they walked away from my office, their footsteps fading away.


    Closing the door gently, I heaved another deep breath and, running my hand through my hair, I walked back to my desk to wait for the devil.

 Plotting, Plotting

    The bestid schemes o¡¯ Mice an¡¯ Men, Gang aft agley. And leave us naught but grief and pain, For promised joy! (To A Mouse) by Robert Burns.


    ~~


    AMANDA


    The grim expression on Robert¡¯s face when I walked into his office was unsurprising.


    He stood in front of his desk, one hand on it and the other against the edge, drumming impatiently.


    I could tell he wasn¡¯t thrilled about my visit by the tenseness in his muscles and the way his jaw ticked. But I didn¡¯t mind.


    ¡°Amanda-¡± He greeted me coldly as I approached the desk.


    I took a seat, cing my small clutch purse on the cool wooden surface and flipping my hair sideways.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± I replied smugly, and he raised an eyebrow at me.


    ¡°What do you want?¡±


    His tone held an undertone of irritation, as if he didn¡¯t appreciate my presence here and that I was well aware of.


    However, I did not respond right away. Instead, I used a few moments of silence to look around therge office.


    The room was decorated in a masculine style, and I couldn¡¯t help but notice how every object in this room screamed luxury and wealth.


    Everything was of high quality, including the window panes, balcony sses, and minimalist art decorations that hung on the wall.


    Robert had done so well for himself-as evidenced by his possessions-and the realization made my chest squeeze with jealousy.


    I opened my mouth to respond to his earlier question when I noticed a ck card on his desk, and my curiosity took over.


    I leaned forward and took the card without asking permission, scanning the invitation with my sharp gaze.


    ¡°Give me that,¡± Robert¡¯s voice cut through my thoughts startlingly, and I froze for a second.


    I didn¡¯t notice him approaching until he snatched the card from my grasp and ced it back on the desk.


    ¡°Woah!¡± Surprised, I looked up at him, but he wasn¡¯t standing in front of me anymore, having moved back to his office desk, arms crossed and standing as he shot me a disgusting look.


    ¡°What is that card for? Oh, no need to tell me.¡± I remarked sarcastically, ¡°I¡¯m already aware of what it is.¡±


    I knew I¡¯d struck a nerve with my words when his face darkened, but I didn¡¯t care as usual.


    ¡°What do you want, Amanda?¡± I gritted my teeth as he asked again, diverting the conversation.


    I¡¯d wanted to ask him if he had a date to the ball, even though I knew the answer.


    Of course, he¡¯d take the sleazy bitch he was currently fucking to the party, and suddenly an idea struck inside my head.


    ¡°Amanda¡­¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious, Robert? I want a reconciliation-a family reunion-between you, me, and our son.¡± I said.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    To my ears, my voice sounded sweet and sincere, but on the inside, I felt anything but that.


    Coupled with the fact that I was already plotting something sinister in my head, I decided to concentrate a little more and not deviate from the conversation I was having with the father of my child.


    ¡°It¡¯d be much easier if we just talked this out.¡± I added and Robert snorted, looking down at his hand again.


    His fingers were still tapping impatiently against the polished wood, and I watched as they made small patterns on the desk¡¯s surface, as if he was trying to express his displeasure somehow.


    When he finally spoke, his voice was low, almost like he was growling. ¡°There is nothing to discuss, Amanda. That is something both you and I are aware of.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to serve me any refreshments?¡± I smirked, trying to divert the conversation for the time being. ¡°This will be my first visit to your office, and-¡±


    ¡°You weren¡¯t invited here, Amanda. You came on your own, so I don¡¯t think I owe you any refreshments.¡± He cut in abruptly.


    The room fell silent as I considered what I should say next.


    ¡°Well, I do have some news for you.¡±


    ¡°What news?¡±


    ¡°I made some headway when I spoke with Dn a few days ago. One of the reasons I¡¯m here is because he agreed to another family dinner.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call and tell me? Why did youe to my office?¡±


    ¡°I called you numerous times, Robert, but you never answered. I even called before I came to your office today, but you ignored it. So who is to me in this situation?¡± I asked, my lips cking as I red at him.


    ¡°Oh well¡­¡± He grumbled, folding his arms across his chest before murmuring almost inaudibly, ¡°I guess it¡¯s time I renew that restraining order.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°You heard me. I¡¯m going to get another restraining order against you since you don¡¯t want to leave me the fuck alone.¡±


    ¡°Leave you alone?¡± I chuckled bitterly before continuing, ¡°Too bad I just can¡¯t, Robert. Have you forgotten that we¡¯re bonded for life? We have a son who is flesh and blood bound to us.¡±


    Letting out a dry, cynicalugh, which irritated me to no end, he asked. ¡°That¡¯s the only leverage you have against me.¡±


    ¡®I have other leverage against you, my dear. I¡¯m your first wife. Your first love. The woman you lost your virginity to. The woman who won¡¯t let you be till death do us part. The¡­.¡¯ My thoughts trailed off, and I hissed softly.


    I wanted to speak these thoughts out loud, but I couldn¡¯t. Instead, I said again, a smug smile on my lips, ¡°About the restraining order, you should know that my record these past few months has been squeaky clean, so you¡¯ll have some difficulty requesting another one.¡±


    ¡°You think I don¡¯t have the means to get one if I wanted to? Amanda, you seriously underestimate my abilities.¡±


    ¡°Well, dear ex-husband, I¡¯d love to see you try.¡± I responded with phony sweetness, my tone tinged with sarcasm.


    ¡°Your time here is over. You should leave now.¡± He said curtly before raising his arm and pointing to the door with a flick of his hand.


    ¡°You still haven¡¯t answered me about the dinner with Dn. I¡¯m not leaving until you give me a positive response.¡±


    ¡°You do whatever you want to do, Amanda. I¡¯ll be there if you text me the location, but know that hell will break loose if I don¡¯t see my son.¡±


    ¡°Are you threatening me? That doesn¡¯t seem fair, does it?¡± As I stood up and grabbed my purse, I smirked cockily and tilted my head to the side.


    ¡°I guess it doesn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I saw that the party you were invited to was a masked one, and attendance isn¡¯t strictly on invitation¡­.¡± I paused, taking a step back from the desk. ¡°Would it be okay if I came? It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve been to a distinguished ball, and-¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare, Amanda.¡± He cut me off before I could finish, and I grinned broadly.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare what? Attend a charity event? You, of all people, should know just how much I love parties like this, and I won¡¯t-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t push your luck, Amanda.¡± His tone dropped, and suddenly, a menace in those eyes bored into mine with fury. ¡°Will you please leave my office now?¡± He asked coldly, staring at me with unblinking eyes as if daring me to disobey him-not that I wanted to.


    ¡°Have a good day, Robert.¡± I gave him onest smirk before leaving and shutting the door behind me with a click.


    I needed to clear my head and n my next move. One that entailed attending that damned masked party and having a good time with his potential date.


    I¡¯d memorized the event¡¯s location and knew I¡¯d have no trouble getting into the building.


    Oh, this was going to be fun!

 Work Packages

    RENEE


    ¡°Renee, Renee¡­ there¡¯s a surprise package for you.¡±


    The cheerful voice of Sally, my coworker and closest friend at the restaurant, echoed through the building. I looked up from the counter, my gaze drawn to her slim, bouncing figure.


    She was carrying a simple flower bouquet and a box with a red ribbon wrapped around it.


    ¡°What¡¯ve you got there?¡± I asked, my eyes narrowing as she approached me. ¡°Is this some kind of prank or something?¡±


    ¡°Prank? Oh, how I wish it were. This was given to me by a handsome gentleman parked outside.¡± I rolled my eyes at her as she giggled and carefully handed the package to me as if it were some exotic jewel.


    ¡°A handsome gentleman? Is he-¡±


    ¡°Do you remember the man who came into the restaurant the other day and whisked you out without blinking? He is, indeed, the one.¡± She said, wiggling her eyebrows.


    ¡°Oh, Robert¡­¡± I muttered to myself, a flush rising on my cheeks as I stared through the restaurant windows, and lo and behold, as Sally predicted, there was his Jeep parked a few feet from the building.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Did Renee receive a flower delivery?¡±


    Sally and I looked up from the gifts to see some waitresses already gathered around, staring intently at the package in my hands, and I sighed.


    Of course, I should¡¯ve known this would cause amotion and worse still, if Mrs. Andrews found out I was receiving gifts during work hours, I¡¯d immediately be demoted to the trash pile.


    ¡°Hello,dies¡­¡± I greeted them, but they paid me no attention as they had their eyes fixated on the gifts.


    ¡°Is that a gift from your hot rich boyfriend?¡± One of the waitresses asked.


    Nodding, I pleaded, ¡°I need to get these packed before Mrs. Andrew sees them and-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Renee. She¡¯s too preupied with office work toe out here.¡±


    ¡°Your boyfriend is such a sweet guy. Renee. You¡¯re so lucky.¡± Another waitress swooned as she looked at the gift and touched the flowers.


    Watching her touch them made me cringe.


    ¡°Are you sure Mrs. Andrew is busy? I don¡¯t want to get fired because this is againstpany policy, and-¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re overthinking things, girl.¡± Sally stepped forward, opening one of the boxes containing choctes and stuffing a brown sweet into her mouth. ¡°Won¡¯t you go see him? His car is still parked outside. I think he¡¯s waiting for you.¡±


    ¡°But I¡­ I have work to do¡­¡±


    ¡°Go! I¡¯ll cover for you, don¡¯t worry.¡± Sally squealed, grabbing the flower bouquet from my hands.


    ¡°You¡¯ll cover for me? You will?¡± I asked, and she responded with a warm smile and a nod.


    ¡°I appreciate it so much, Sally. Thank you.¡± Iughed and hurried out of the building, grabbing my small bag from the counter.


    It took some time to prepare myself, but after a few minutes, I was walking down the sidewalk toward the Jeep, with my eyes darting around.


    I found him standing near the car with his arms crossed and his foot tapping impatiently on the pavement.


    He looked dashing and handsome in his all-ck suit, with a pair of dark sunsses perched atop his nose and his wavy hair neatly slicked back and gelled.


    He had his gaze trained on my approaching figure, and with a wide grin, he uncrossed his arms and met me halfway.


    He opened his arms wide for a hug, and I allowed myself to be held by him, burying my face in the crook of his broad chest and inhaling his perfect masculine scent.


    ¡°Good morning, baby girl.¡±


    ¡°Good morning, Robert.¡±


    ¡°I can see someone missed me¡­¡± He purred, his arms tightening around me as he gently kissed my cheek.


    His warm breath tickled my skin, sending shivers all over my body.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get cocky.¡±


    ¡°But you did miss me?¡± He teased, and I bobbed affirmatively with a grin.


    ¡°I called your phone a few minutes ago. You didn¡¯t answer. Why?¡±


    ¡°Work.¡± I grumbled. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you deliver the package yourself if you were standing outside?¡±


    ¡°Would you have liked that?¡±


    ¡°No. I don¡¯t think I would¡¯ve.¡±


    ¡°Exactly. You wouldn¡¯t want all that attention, and I don¡¯t want to stir up any more trouble for you. Besides, your colleague was passing by, so I decided to give her the message.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s better.¡±


    ¡°I know, right? How¡¯re you feeling this morning? Have you had your breakfast yet?¡± He asked, stepping back to look down at my face.


    ¡°I have, indeed. How about you?¡±


    ¡°Same.¡±


    ¡°So, what brings you here?¡±


    ¡°I came because I missed you. I wanted to see your beautiful face because it¡¯s been three days, and I¡¯m Renee starved. Arghhh¡­¡± He finished thest words with a groan, and I chuckled at his goofiness.


    ¡°Oh, Robert. Are you sure that¡¯s all?¡±


    ¡°Well, I also came to tell you about a party I was invited to.¡±


    ¡°A party?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Something like a masked ball. It¡¯ll be my first public appearance since moving to Ondo. Would you like to tag along?¡±


    ¡°Tag along?¡±


    ¡°Yes. You¡¯ll be joining me as my date for the evening. You know, I need to start showing you off. Introduce you to my colleagues, friends, and so on. Don¡¯t you think?¡±


    My stomach flipped, and I gave him a shy look.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯d be delighted to be your plus one. When will this event take ce?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s this weekend. On the outskirts of the city, in some grand hall. How about I take you shopping tonight?¡±


    ¡°For dresses?¡±


    ¡°Yes, exactly. And you will let me pay for everything.¡± He paused, smirking. ¡°As usual, the shopping date is non-negotiable, so you cannot back out or refuse.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Daddy.¡± I smiled, feeling the warmth spread inside my heart at his words.


    Robert knew just how to make me feel on top of the world. This man¡­ He made my heart sing. Apart from our squabbles, he was perfect for me, and it was reassuring to know his heart was mine, as much as mine belonged to him too.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°That¡¯s all I needed to talk to you about. I wish I could take you home right now to enjoy ourselves instead of¡­¡±


    ¡°Instead of working right?¡± I finished the sentence with a grumble, and he grinned before tipping my head and kissing my lips.


    ¡°Well, I guess I¡¯ll be on my way then. I¡¯ll see you tonight.¡±


    ¡°Okay, and good luck with work today.¡±


    ¡°Thank you very much, sweetheart.¡± He said before turning around and getting into his Jeep, smiling and winking at me.


    Watching the car drive away, I closed my eyes and sighed, enjoying the cool morning breeze blowing through my hair.


    With a slight smile lingering on my lips, I then turned around and walked back to the restaurant.

 Shopping Dates

    ROBERT


    ¡°How about this gown?¡± Renee asked.


    I looked up from my phone, my eyes widening as I took in the stunning vision before me.


    ¡°Wow!¡± The word escaped my lips before I could stop myself, and Renee¡¯s self-satisfied grin, which had been slowly forming, grew more prominent.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    The ck sequined dress she wore was almost wless. Extremely beautiful-as stunning as she was-with every line and curve revealing her long legs and full breasts.


    The material clung to her body perfectly, creating an enticing appearance that radiated allure, sexiness, and bare seduction.


    ¡°I can see you like this dress, Mr. rke. Are we taking it?¡± The nearby attendant asked, her eyebrows quirking as she waited for a response.


    ¡°Absolutely. I think it¡¯s beautiful and¡­.¡± I trailed off, staring at Renee again, this time at her thighs. ¡°Is there a slit anywhere?¡±


    ¡°Do you mean showing off some sexy skin? There is, indeed. Do you like it?¡± Renee teased, twirling and widening her legs slightly, allowing me to see the dress slit more clearly than before.


    How could I have missed it? I pondered, setting aside the question for the time being.


    ¡°Robert?!¡± Renee called out, ¡°You¡¯re not saying anything.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not taking this dress. I¡¯m sorry, but you need to change your clothes.¡± I deadpanned, my gaze transfixed as my eyes darted down her thighs, watching her smooth legs move beneath the dress.


    ¡°Wait a minute, what? You just said the dress is perfect, and now you¡¯re changing your mind so quickly.¡± Renee frowned. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Just because I said it looked good doesn¡¯t mean you get to wear it, love. There has to be another dress without such a wide-open thigh slit.¡± I said slowly, trying to exin my reasoning as I went on, ¡°Something that won¡¯t reveal too much of my property.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Renee. I don¡¯t want anyone to see what belongs to me. Change it.¡± My tone was monotonous as I deadpanned.


    ¡°But this is the fifth dress I¡¯ve tried on this evening. And each one I changed looked better than the one before. This is the best dress of all!¡± Her lips curled up in an angry pout as she argued.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s ideal, I agree. It¡¯s beautiful and fits you perfectly, but I won¡¯t let you wear it. It¡¯s far too open. Look at your cleavage¡­¡± I trailed off as my gazended on her breasts. ¡°It¡¯s also a bit open. So, no, Renee. We¡¯re not taking this gown.¡±


    ¡°Robert, for goodness¡¯s sake!¡± She eximed, her voice slightly rising.


    With a sigh, I gave her my best fake apologetic smile and intoned, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, baby girl, but choose another. Please¡­¡±


    Seconds passed with no response from her. She stood in silence for minutes, her face pensive, her shoulders slightly dropped in frustration, before reluctantly nodding her head.


    ¡°Okay, Robert. I¡¯ll make the necessary changes.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my woman.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± She began, her eyes narrowing, ¡°The next dress I pick is what I¡¯m wearing to that masked party, and I don¡¯t care what you say about it.¡±


    ¡°Deal. Now go change.¡±


    She huffed quietly and walked away, muttering under her breath, while the attendant, who¡¯d been watching our interaction silently, closely followed her.


    I smirked. Call me selfish, but I relished the times when I could exert some control over our rtionship.


    There was no way I¡¯d let her walk into a room, looking like the sexy seductress she was, and be met with looks of utter lust from any man who nced her way.


    I wouldn¡¯t think twice about punching any motherfucker who decided to¡­


    ¡°Alright. What do you think about this? There¡¯s no thigh slit. My bust is appropriately covered, albeit slightly tight, but it¡¯s lovely. I must say, this is the most beautiful dress I¡¯ve worn tonight, and itpletely covers my¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re going to take it.¡± I quickly cut her off, and her cheeks flushed bright red as she stared at me.


    However, I quickly cut my gaze off hers, and my eyes trailed over the outfit once more.


    It was a simple green cocktail dress that clung to her curves and red at her knees.


    Even though the dress was modest and covered almost every inch of her skin, it captured her feminine essence. It entuated her softness while concealing her natural voluptuousness.


    She¡¯d look stunning with makeup and an expensive-as-fuck ne adorning her creamy throat, and I couldn¡¯t wait.


    ¡°You look stunning, baby girl. This suits you well and doesn¡¯t leave much to the imagination.¡± I said after a brief pause, ¡°I like it.¡±


    ¡°I like it as well¡­¡±


    ¡°All right, that¡¯s settled. How much does the dress cost?¡± I asked, turning to face the attendant.


    ¡°Eight thousand dors, sir.¡± She replied evenly, and I heard Renee gasp at the price of the dress.


    I smirked.


    I¡¯d nned to buy an insanely exquisite and expensive gown, which is why I¡¯d brought her to this store-one of Ondo¡¯s most opulent boutiques-so I wasn¡¯t surprised by the dress¡¯s price.


    I could afford whatever she desired, and my top priority was to treat Renee like royalty-like the queen she was-so her delightful surprise was a huge plus for me.


    ¡°Alright. Is there anything else that needs to be adjusted or fitted?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Not that I can see. The dress suits Miss Renee perfectly well.¡± The attendant said.


    ¡°All right, then. Pack the dress and any other garments she wants.¡±


    ¡°Will do, Mr. rke.¡± With that, the youngdy bowed slightly, her hair falling over her shoulder as she left the dressing room.


    After a few seconds of staring at the attendant¡¯s retreating figure, Renee turned her gaze to me.


    ¡°Robert! What did you do?!¡± She eximed.


    ¡°I bought you some dresses.¡±


    ¡°Some ridiculously expensive dresses, you mean?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Renee,e on. Nothing is too expensive when ites to you. You should be aware of this by now.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I¡­ I don¡¯t even know what to say.¡± She stammered. ¡°I¡­ thank you, but¡­ I know the dress is gorgeous, and I like them all, but they¡¯re so expensive. This one¡¯s eight thousand dors, and just how much will the rest be? I¡­ how do I ever pay you for all this?¡±


    I listened to her ramble on and on without saying a word, and finally, when she was finished, I dimmed my eyes as I suddenly stood up from the soft couch I¡¯d been sitting on.


    ¡°Well, well¡­¡± I drawled, taking a step toward her and winking at the same time, ¡°You were talking about payment, and I know of a nice way you can repay this kind gesture, love.¡±


    She blinked a few times, trying to read between the lines while moving backward, and I grinned wickedly.


    ¡°No, no!¡± She eximed with a giggle when it clicked and dashed into the innermost dressing room, adding, ¡°Surely, you don¡¯t mean sex?¡±


    ¡°Now, when you say it bluntly like that. Yes.¡± I said, following her.


    ¡°Wait, what?! This is a public dressing room and¡­.¡±


    ¡°And you appear to have forgotten that I paid for a private session before you started looking at the dresses. So, we have the room to ourselves.¡±


    ¡°The attendant¡­¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s gone. Now, shall we?¡± I asked, leaning forward and dragging her hand sharply as I drew her closer.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡± She whispered breathlessly as I began to kiss the corners of her neck. ¡°We don¡¯t have protection. You left the condom pack in the car, and I-¡±


    ¡°Fuck that, Renee. I need to fuck you, or else I¡¯ll lose my mind. I¡¯ll pull out and clean the mess. Don¡¯t you worry.¡± I interrupted her, kissing the corner of her lips.


    ¡°Oh, Robert¡­¡± She moaned, her hands clutching my biceps for support. That was all the reaction I needed.


    My erection ground against her stomach, and I growled. I picked her up as she whimpered lightly, forcing her legs to wrap around my waist automatically.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get to work then, shall we?¡± I grinned.


    ¡°Yes, Daddy. Yes, please¡­¡±

 The Masked Ball

    RENEE


    SOME DAYS LATER


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, raise your chin slightly. We¡¯re almost finished.¡± The makeup artist gave me instructions, and I followed them exactly.


    The woman was quick. As she brushed my face and smoothed the stray hairs, I looked in the vanity mirror, taking in my appearance.


    Today was the masquerade Robert had been invited to, and I was being primed and prepped for the asion.


    His hotel suite¡¯s bedroom had been converted into an intimate dressing room, and various stylists and makeup artists were on hand to attend to my every need. It felt like this event was more for me than for him or us.


    What else could I expect from our first official outing as a couple?


    Of course, he¡¯d want to go all out. A shiver ran down my spine as I wondered if I¡¯d fit in with his world.


    A world that screamed wealth, extravagance, and grandeur.


    I had doubts, but I¡¯d give it my all for him and us tonight.


    The vibrating sound of my cell phone drew me out of my reverie. Muttering an apology to the beautician, I pulled my phone from my clutch purse and checked the caller ID.


    It was my mother calling.


    As I epted the call and put the phone on loudspeaker, I greeted cheerfully, ¡°Hi, mama! How are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Good day, sweet girl. I¡¯m wonderful. How are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing great.¡±


    ¡°I called Nicole, and she told me that the nice gentleman you¡¯re dating is taking you to a party.¡±


    ¡°Woah, Mother!¡± I eximed, feeling a flush rush up my cheeks. ¡°I¡­ Yes, that¡¯s right.¡±


    ¡°So, are you already at the party?¡±


    ¡°Not at all. I¡¯m in his suite getting ready and-¡±


    ¡°Is that your mother?¡± Robert¡¯s deep voice cut through my conversation as he entered the room, and I froze instantly.


    When he saw me, he smiled, and his gaze lingered on me for a moment longer than necessary before flickering away.


    ¡°Your mother?¡± He asked again, walking toward me. I waved my hands, attempting to wave him away, but he paid no heed.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± My mother asked.


    ¡°Mother¡­¡± I trailed off, trying to persuade Robert to leave the room, but he refused.


    Instead, he leaned over and whispered something to the makeup artist and stylists nearby, making them hurry out of the room in a sh.


    ¡°I can hear his voice. What¡¯s his name again? Robert or what?¡± My mother¡¯s cheerful voice broke through the silence, and my embarrassment rose another notch.


    Robert grinned at me. I could tell he enjoyed my difort, but he didn¡¯t stop talking.


    ¡°It¡¯s Robert, ma¡¯am. How are you doing?¡± He asked, his voice warm. His hand brushed past mine as he grabbed my phone and held it to his ear.


    I listened as he engaged in a charming conversation with my mother, turning off the speaker, and my heart swelled.


    My mother seemed to like him already, and I could tell he liked her too from how he was grinning from ear to ear, looking so boyish and handsome.


    They were getting on so well already. I liked that-a lot.


    ¡°Sure, sure. We¡¯ll visit soon. I need to see the face of the woman who gave the world my angel¡­.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    I rolled my eyes at his teasing, and he shed me an easy grin before adding, ¡°I think she has nothing pressing to discuss with you, right?¡±


    ¡°Not really.¡± I shrugged.


    ¡°Alright.¡± He said and returning his attention back to the phone call, he bid his farewell.


    ¡°Bye, ma. See you soon.¡±


    ¡°See you soon too, my dear.¡± My mom replied, and Robertughed heartily, before hanging up.


    ¡°I see you¡¯ve already made friends with my mother.¡±


    ¡°Of course. She sounds nice¡­.¡± He paused, leaning over and touching my shoulders lightly, ¡°Just like you.¡±


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± I breathlessly called out, and he chuckled, straightening.


    He ced his hands in his pocket and asked, ¡°You¡¯re almost done, right?¡±


    ¡°I suppose so. You¡¯ve already sent the stylists away, so all I have to do is apply my lipstick, and I¡¯m ready to go.¡±


    ¡°All the better for us. Stand up. Let me admire your dress.¡± Hemanded gruffly.


    I stood up feeling stiff. My gaze was locked on the mirror, and I watched him admire my gown.


    ¡°So beautiful and all mine.¡± He mumbled against my neck, kissing my sensitive skin gently, trying not to ruin my makeup. ¡°I love you, Renee. So so much.¡±


    My stomach fluttered as I felt his hot breath tickle my skin.


    ¡°I love you too, Robert¡­¡± I started to say something, but before I could finish, I felt his hands on my waist. He pulled me toward his chest, and our bodies merged.


    ¡°Now, before we go, I have a present for you.¡± He whispered in my ear, and I gasped.


    ¡°What? What is it?¡± I asked, already dizzy and excited.


    ¡°Please, close your eyes.¡± He ordered. I immediately obeyed, my chest thumping in anticipation.


    I flinched as I felt something metallic on my neck, but he steadied me with his hands and whispered gently in my ears.


    ¡°Open your eyes, baby girl.¡±


    ¡°Woah!¡± I blurted in surprise at the sight of the ne, and my hands lifting, I ran my fingers over the exquisite beauty sped around my throat.


    The jewelry was made of silver metal, studded with green diamonds, and a matching gemstone was set just above my corbone.


    Robert was staring at me intently, taking in my reaction. I smiled at him, my eyes ssy.


    God! What have I done to deserve this man?


    ¡°Thank you very much, Robert. This¡­ it¡¯s lovely.¡±


    ¡°It is, indeed. And it¡¯s even more beautiful on you.¡± His husky voice made me shiver, and I turned toward his chest, my fingers ying with the cool smoothness of his leather jacket.


    ¡°I love it. So much. Thank you very much, Robert. I can¡¯t begin to express my gratitude.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to say anything. You¡¯re not required to do anything. Just be by my side today, and let¡¯s make the most of this magical evening, shall we?¡±


    ¡°Okay. Alright.¡±


    ¡°Good. Where¡¯s your mask?¡± He asked. I pointed at the bed where two intricately designed masks had beenid.


    Picking them up and handing the more feminine one to me, he kissed my right knuckles and said reassuringly, ¡°You¡¯re going to look amazing at the g, baby girl.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°Good. Now, let¡¯s go.¡±


    With onest kiss and onest look in the mirror, we exited the suite and the hotel to the limo waiting outside.


    Tonight, was going to be special. That much I knew.


    I knew there¡¯d be a slew of cameras trained on me and a swarm of eager paparazzi peppering us with questions. Robert warned me, but I was prepared. I¡¯d undoubtedly handle them.


    It wouldn¡¯t be too difficult, and I felt safe enough to continue with the man I loved by my side every step of the way.

 A Lover’s Hate

    Stronger than lover¡¯s love is lover¡¯s hate. Incurable, in each, the wounds they make. ¨C Euripides


    ~~


    AMANDA


    Time was speedily running by, yet Robert and his date were nowhere to be seen.


    What the hell was keeping them? I gripped my wine ss so tightly it almost shattered.


    They were supposed to arrive an hour ago, ording to my watch. The masked ball had begun already.


    The evening had been busy, with wealthy socialites milling about, talking, and dining while most of the activities set aside for the ball had taken ce.


    Charity donations and auctions which were the party¡¯s main event had finished. Most people in attendance were making their way to the exits. Yet still, the man of the show-or my show-was nowhere to be found.


    So, where in the world were they? Had they decided to bail out? Had they decided not to attend the ball anymore?


    I shook my head, attempting to clear my mind of the thoughts and questions brewing.


    They couldn¡¯t bail. They just couldn¡¯t. If there¡¯s one thing Robert enjoyed most, it was attending high-profile events and making his presence known in the most elegant way possible.


    He would never pass up an opportunity to show off how much money he had. As a phnthropist, he¡¯d attend this event no matter howte.


    ¡°Mother¡­ This gentleman over here just asked you a question. Did you hear what he said?¡± My son Dn asked.


    I dragged my deep-rooted gaze, fixed at the closed hall¡¯s entrance, back to where Dn was standing, and I blinked twice.


    Dn was my date for tonight. But I¡¯d also brought him as part of my sinister n. This n which involved a small family reunion at the party, and I wanted to show my son off to the sleazy woman.


    I¡¯d done some background checks on the youngdy Robert was currently fucking after seeing her with him. She was a pretty decent woman who worked as a waitress.


    I could tell he was trying to keep things private with her as they¡¯d never been photographed in public together.


    It urred to me that the woman might not know how Dn and I fit in Robert¡¯s life, and what better time to tell her than now?


    She was most likely a gold-digging bitch who was only with Robert for his money. It was now my sole responsibility to shatter every wretched dream she had.


    ¡°Mother¡­¡± Dn called again, and I smiled before muttering, ¡°Sorry, son. I didn¡¯t hear you. What did you say?¡±


    ¡°Are you okay, Mother?¡± He answered my question with another, and I nodded with a roll of my eyes.


    ¡°What were you saying and¡­.¡± I started, but my words trailed when suddenly the building¡¯s giant steel doors swung open, and in walked none other than Robert and the woman-her face hidden behind a dark mask.


    Very well, very well. They had finally arrived!


    How appropriate. As I took a small gulp from the wine ss in my hand, I mocked with amusement, a smirk curling up my lips.


    As expected, throngs of paparazzi swarmed them-Robert especially- and cameras shing, they snapped away furiously, eager to get a photo of the new couple.


    Bodyguards in dark suits were in front, attempting to nk the crowd and clear the way for the couple of the moment.


    However, amidst themotion, I watched as Robert leaned in and whispered something in the woman¡¯s ear. Her red-stained lips widened into a cheerful grin, and my chest tightened in jealousy.


    He had his hands around her waist, drawing her closer and shielding her from the cameras in a way that screamed possessiveness and ownership.


    Robert was mine, for God¡¯s sake! He¡­


    ¡°Is that father?¡± Dn¡¯s rough voice pierced my thoughts. With my tongue cking, I replied, ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°With a woman? Is she, his girlfriend?¡± He asked. Calling the haughty-looking woman his girlfriend made me hiss loudly.


    ¡°I suppose you could say that.¡± I replied sinctly, taking a sip from my ss.


    ¡°Wow. I never imagined he¡¯d be with someone so young. This is unexpected.¡± He mused as the pair walked past the paparazzi and into the room, closely followed by the bodyguards.


    ¡°Indeed. I never imagined it either.¡± I agreed. ¡°After all these years of being single, he decided to go public with a girl the same age as his son. Surely, he has no shame.¡±


    ¡°I can see it. To think, he¡¯s been denying me ess to money for the past few months, but I can see himvishing money on the woman he¡¯s dating. For God¡¯s sake¡­¡± Dn mumbled through clenched teeth, and my chest swelled with pride.


    My son certainly disapproved of the new whore in his father¡¯s arms, and this was added fortification for me.


    Together, we¡¯d put an end to this stupid rtionship, and Robert would never try to pursue one again.


    Robert had better ept me back into his life-regardless of anything I¡¯ve done- or stay single.


    ¡°Please excuse me for a moment, son.¡± I cleared my throat as I stepped away from Dn, and he waved me off with a shake of his hands.


    His gaze remained fixed on Robert, and I smirked.


    Taking advantage of Dn¡¯s distraction, I crept to the other side of the party, positioning myself in a quieter corner where I could clearly see Robert and his woman.


    As the party progressed, I used silent moments to watch their movements. Every time Robert introduced her to one of his associates or leaned over to whisper in her ear, invisible daggers stabbed my heart.


    What did Robert see in her?


    She was stunning, no doubt, but she had nothing on me. I was in myte thirties and still looked better than she did. The realization hit me hard.


    This woman didn¡¯t deserve Robert at all.


    My throat clogged. Taking a small sip of my wine-the third tonight-I straightened and continued to watch, every painstaking second, hurting more than thest.


    Taking in her dress style, I slowly admired the pretty, emerald-green fabric adorning her milky skin. Looking up, my eyes locked on her cor, and I saw something else. Something that must¡¯ve cost a fortune.


    It was an exquisite sparkling ne, sitting on the crook of her throat as if purposely disying its content to everyone who looked its way.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Robert had to have bought it for her.


    There was no way she could afford such expensive adornment on her meager sry at the restaurant she worked at. This was for sure.


    The bitch had sunk her greedy ws in Robert. But soon, I¡¯d get rid of her.  I only needed the perfect time to strike.


    After a half-hour, I noticed the bitch leaning close to Robert, and whispering something in his ears that made him frown.


    I wondered what she¡¯d told him.


    Calling out to a nearby waitress, and saying some things to her, Robert handed her a tip.


    I watched the bitch by his side hand him her purse. Then the woman followed the waitress away from the party-obviously going to the restroom.


    ¡°Perfect. Just perfect.¡± I muttered softly, a coy smile on my lips. I dropped my wine ss on a nearby tray before opening my purse and pulling out my weapons of mass destruction, as it would appear.


    Printed photos of Robert and me during our recent meetings. I¡¯d hired a skilled photographer to take the pictures without him knowing, and they¡¯d turned out so well.


    She¡¯d know better than to stay with Robert after I showed her this picture and let her in on a few secrets. That should be enough incentive for her to leave and stay away from my son¡¯s father. And if she didn¡¯t get the memo? Then I¡¯d up my antics and do worse.


    Giving myself a once over and smacking my lips softly, I exited the crowded hall, feeling an adrenaline rush coursing through my veins.


    Going straight to the restroom where the bitch certainly was, it struck me-the actual reason for my presence at this slimy event.


    My mission here was simple. Dismantle Robert¡¯s rtionship. Send out a warning and get rid of the bitch.


    If she remained stubborn, I wouldn¡¯t hesitate to destroy her in the most heinous way possible.


    Given that she was my first victim in years-the first woman Robert seemed to have taken a shine to-my sick, twisted ns to destroy her were very appealing.


    I was going to take her down. Whoever the hell she was. And nobody was going to stop me. Not even Robert.

 Creepy Encounters

    RENEE


    I followed the waitress out of the hall and to the back of the magnificent building. The restroom was oddly located at the back of the building. Whoever designed this building had something up their sleeves. The idea amused me when we finally reached our destination.


    Murmuring my thanks, the youngdy took her to leave, and I pushed therge door open to reveal an empty restroom.


    It was deserted. Well, lucky me! I mused, a small smile on my lips.


    I was feeling pressed, as I¡¯d told Robert earlier. I needed privacy and time to myself after what¡¯s happened since we¡¯d arrived at the masquerade.


    On the outside, I¡¯d acted fine andposed all night, but deep down, I was shaking with nerves.


    I expected this. I¡¯d even prepared myself for whatever might happen tonight, but it didn¡¯t stop me from feelingpletely overwhelmed, helpless, and tongue-tied.


    It¡¯d been difficult not to panic with every camera click taking photos of Robert and me and the never-ending stream of questions that flew our way.


    Also, the using stares from expensively dresseddies and gentlemen, their fingers pointing at me as they gossiped, made me nervous too.


    With their faces hidden beneath the masks, it was difficult for me to identify any of them, and despite repeatedly telling myself that I wouldn¡¯t let anything or anyone get to me, it was difficult.


    The only thing that kept me going was Robert¡¯s gentle squeezes and the sweet reassuring words whispered in my ear as he tried to help me feel at home and wee in his world.


    He could feel my difort and knew I was struggling, but he kept aforting arm around my shoulders the entire time. Never letting go for once.


    When I¡¯d told him about my urgent need to use the restroom, I saw concern flicker across his face.


    He offered to follow me, whispering the question in my ear but I declined immediately. He¡¯d been talking to important business clients, and I knew if he followed me, we¡¯d take much longer in the restroom than usual. Thinking about the illicit things we¡¯d do made my cheeks flush instantly.


    So reluctantly, after tipping the waitress and ensuring I was safe, he¡¯d let me go, and I¡¯d rushed off.


    And now here I was¡­ alone. Alone in the restroom and by myself.


    My heart was beating so loud that I could hear it, so I quickly got down to business. After I used the facilities, I neatly arranged my dress and exited the stall.


    However, as I emerged, I was greeted by a masked woman standing in front of the mirrors, fixing her lipstick and inspecting herself.


    She must have walked in while I was using the toilet. I began to walk past her, intent on leaving, when suddenly her head whipped in my direction, and I froze.


    She abruptly turned around, dropping her lipstick so it ttered noisily on the floor, making me uneasy.


    Gripping my face mask in my right hand, I continued  to leave when the woman stepped forward, not stopping until she stood directly in front of me, blocking my path.


    Her brown hair hung loosely around her shoulders, and she wore a ck cocktail gown. She also wore ck high heels-expensive-looking ones-perched upon her slender feet.


    Assessing her outfit, I noted it was very revealing, showing off toned arms and curves-surely stic curves.


    I couldn¡¯t see her face clearly-except for her lips-due to her mask, but she appeared older based on her body stature. Older and potentially dangerous.


    Her blue eyes were dark and stormy. I was chilled by their expressions. Like porcin, her skin was pale and wless, and her visible features were sharp, defined, and enhanced.


    If it hadn¡¯t been for her eyes, I would¡¯ve mistaken her for being beautiful, but the more I stared into those bluish orbs, the more I felt unnerved.


    Of course, I¡¯d be terrified. It wasn¡¯t every day that one met a stranger in the restroom, at a random event, with no warning or exnation.


    There was also something about this woman. It was how she carried herself, almost as if an invisible barrier surrounded her. She was powerful.


    I swallowed. This woman was intimidating. A little unnerving, yes. Unsettling.


    ¡°Do you need my help?¡± I quietly asked as I took another hesitant step toward her, trying to keep my expression neutral, despite my fear.


    At the same time, my head whirled as I tried to ce who this woman could be.


    Was she a friend or foe? Someone with no intentions probably trying to scare me off by pranking me since it was just the two of us in the area.


    ¡®Renee, how stupid can you get? This woman doesn¡¯t appear to be ying games. Or does she? What about the strange silence? Get your feet moving and get out of here!¡¯


    I tried to move, but my legs were like jelly under my weight, and I couldn¡¯t move an inch.


    ¡°Hello, ma¡¯am. Do you need my help with anything?¡± I asked again, sounding more confident this time, though my throat was dry.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Seconds passed, and the stranger said nothing, just training her gaze on me until finally, I decided I¡¯d had enough.


    I stepped out of her way, trying to ignore her gaze, burning me alive. but then she grabbed my arm with an iron grip. I gasped involuntarily and flinched against her touch.


    ¡°What the hell?¡± I yelped and turned around to face her.


    My heart thudded against my chest, and I opened my mouth to say something, but I quickly closed it when I noticed an eerie smile curl at the corner of her mouth, and I gasped.


    ¡°Hey!¡± I said again, ¡°What are you doing? Who are you? Do you need my help?¡±


    Her thin red lips curled up, and a cold chuckle escaped her.


    ¡°Of course, Miss Renee Micheal. I do need your help.¡± She drawled, shaking her head.


    ¡°You know me? You know my name?¡± I was stunned, and she nodded.


    ¡°Yes. In fact, I know a lot about you.¡± She whispered, her voice dark and sinister. As she took a step closer, I took a step backward.


    ¡°How do you know my name?¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t ask me that. Spare me that question. Everyone at the masked party knows who you are. Billionaire Robert rke¡¯s new fuck toy. How convenient.¡± She sneered.


    I gasped. It was alling together.


    This woman was probably one of Robert¡¯s exes or fuck buddies. Someone who¡¯d be envious of me when I walked into the party by his side. How cringe-worthy.


    She was one of those upper-ss women who¡¯d spent the entire night pointing fingers and gossiping about me.


    When I slipped out of the hall, she saw an opportunity to be alone with me. It all made sense.


    This woman was DOOM! She was out to sully Robert¡¯s name and ruin this lovely evening. But I wasn¡¯t going to let her get to me.


    Straightening, I took a deep breath. I refused to show the slightest ounce of weakness.


    ¡°Sorry if my being Robert¡¯s new fuck toy bothers you. But I¡¯m leaving. but I have to be on my way. Now, if you¡¯ll excuse me, Miss-¡±


    ¡°Mrs instead.¡± The woman stepped forward, smirking as she raised her hands to her face and sharply removed the mask. ¡°You may address me as Mrs. Amanda rke.¡±

 Secrets Unveiled

    RENEE


    My heart broke like bricks tumbling down a wall. It shattered into pieces like an ice cube in the middle of December¡¯s snow, and I couldn¡¯t string it back together.


    My soul had taken a back seat in my body, and my entire existence was now dependent on my legs moving, but I remained stiff.


    The pain grew stronger and sharper with each word this woman said. It was like a punch to my guts.


    It felt like someone was squeezing my heart until it was as hollow as the pit of my stomach. There was nothing left inside. And maybe it wouldn¡¯t have been so bad if I¡¯d had something to hold onto, but now, I could only stare nkly at the wall behind her.


    Everything in my line of sight was jumbled and the words ¡®Mrs. Amanda rke¡¯ kept echoing in my head over and over.


    No matter how hard I tried, I couldn¡¯t block it out, and it hurt so damn much.


    The things she was saying. The way sheughed as she spewed out the trash made me want to scream, but I couldn¡¯t.


    ¡°I believe I¡¯ve gotten you exactly where I want you.¡± She said after a few moments of silence.


    The  strange woman who¡¯d osted me in the restroom resumed her speech, her eyes glinting as she stepped forward.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have any questions, huh? Perhaps you could start by asking how I have Robert¡¯s prestigious surname attached to mine. How about that?¡± She asked with a wink.


    My jaw dropped as I parted my lips, willing the questions to escape my throat, but they didn¡¯t.


    ¡°Now you¡¯re mute, eh? You were ready to leave just now. So what¡¯s stopping you?¡± She mocked, a sickly sweet smile stered on her botched face, and I grimaced.


    Thankfully, she was no longer walking in my direction. Instead, she began to pace around, her hands sped behind her back with a twisted grin.


    With every sound her heels made, I could only stare. I wanted to look away, but I didn¡¯t know how. It was as though I was paralyzed in ce, and all my energy had dissipated, leaving me exhausted and defeated.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve already figured it out in your head, but I¡¯ll go over it again.¡± She said after a moment of eerie silence. She cleared her throat and continued. ¡°By the stricken expression on your face, it¡¯s clear you have no idea that the man you¡¯re currently fucking has a wife and a son nearly your age, if not older.¡±


    I gasped, shocked. Tears welled in my eyes as I tried to understand everything this woman said, but nothing made sense. Or did it?


    Robert was married. This wasn¡¯t just any random ex or woman he¡¯d fucked. This woman was his wife and his child¡¯s mother. His child. His son.


    Suddenly it all clicked in my head, and my mind went into overdrive as a torrent of information overwhelmed everything I could focus on.


    The pieces were alling together, bit by bit, or so I thought.


    I thought back to the unknown phone number calling him-the same number I¡¯d stolen but hadn¡¯t gotten any tangible information about. Then there was the case of the strange woman he¡¯d refused to tell me about. The secrets Robert kept from me and how tense he was whenever I pressed him for information. This rified it all.


    ¡°You¡¯re such a shameless young woman. Do you know that? You¡¯re sleeping with a married man and someone twice your age. Someone who could be your father. How filthy are you? How revolting.¡± She spat, venom seething in her voice as she stared at me.


    She opened her mouth to continue, but the door to the restroom opened, and the noise startled us.


    My gaze darted to the entrance, where I saw a slew of women from the party rush in, chattering loudly amongst themselves.


    They quickly arranged themselves in front of the mirror. They removed their masks without looking at us and went about their business, much to my relief.


    However, that relief was short-lived when the evil woman in front of me said aloud, ¡°I bet we could use somepany, innit? What better way to introduce the city¡¯s new slut and gold digger to everyone in the room?¡± he spoke, her tongue dripping with malice while my cheeks flushed with embarrassment and shame.


    Thedies¡¯ collective gasps and murmurs erupted as if on cue, and I watched as their heads turned toward us.


    I tried to look elsewhere, hoping to avoid their critical and probing gaze and ignore the suffocating sensation building inside me.


    Suffocating anger and rage. Unprecedented fury that I couldn¡¯t control, and suddenly I  decided to stand up and save myself from this humiliation before it got any worse.


    I couldn¡¯t let these women see me cry or crumble into a weak mess. Whatever the reason, I had to remain calm and collected for my sanity and my pride.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°I can¡¯t take this anymore¡­.¡± I muttered as I straightened up.


    Lifting my chin, I blinked back the tears threatening to spill down my face and squared my shoulders. I faced the woman who imed to be Robert¡¯s wife and said, ¡°Your lies and tantrums won¡¯t fool me. I believe this is all some mistake. You¡¯re probably just a jealous ex trying to ruin our lives. I give you credit because your story sounds true. But I¡¯m not buying it.¡±


    A chorus of snickers rang through the restroom. I cowered under the attention focused on us. I knew better than to be distracted by it.


    The smug-looking woman in front of me narrowed her eyes, and for a split second, I thought I¡¯d gotten through to her, but then she burst outughing.


    ¡°Do you think I made up this story? How delusional and foolish can you be?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps I¡¯m delusional and insane, but you? You¡¯re a shameless liar. You have a lot of time on your hands for someone your age, don¡¯t you? Following women into restrooms and scaring them away with empty threats. What do you want? Is it money? Oh, I¡¯m sure Robert has plenty of that. If you want, I could get you a hefty wad of cash.¡± I smirked back, suddenly feeling confident.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Yes! You probably don¡¯t even know Robert, yet here I am. Were you paid for this? I mean,e on¡­ I saw so many of you olddies point using and pointing gossiping fingers at me all night. I won¡¯t-¡±


    ¡°How about you stop talking and exin this.¡± She interrupted, thrusting a cell phone in front of my face, and I froze.


    ¡°Take a look at those photos and tell me what you see. Still think I don¡¯t know Robert? Well, these pictures prove it.¡±


    For a split second, I considered calling her bluff and not taking the cell phone, but my curiosity won out. With shaky hands, I took the phone and began flipping through the photos.


    My heartbeat quickened with each image I saw. Tears rose again at the corners of my eyes. Blood left my face, making me pale, and my vision distorted.


    I saw pictures of her and Robert in a restaurant, and even though they sat opposite each other, they appeared to be in an intimate situation.


    Again, I saw another photo of her with him in his office, and¡­


    ¡°No¡­ This is a lie. This isn¡¯t possible.¡± I muttered under my breath.


    Tears streamed down my cheeks in torrents as I stared at the screen with wide, horrified eyes. This time, I didn¡¯t hold them back.


    Robert knew this woman. He¡¯d been seeing her recently, maybe even sleeping with her, and¡­ No! Robert would never cheat on me. He loved me too much to do that¡­ Right? Right?! The question screamed in my head.


    My chest heaved, and the lump in my throat grewrger andrger, making it hard to speak.


    ¡°I won¡¯t believe anything you say until Robert tells me himself. All of this nonsense about you being his wife and having his son. I¡¯m not going to listen to it. Take your phone, and please excuse me.¡±


    ¡°You want to leave now? You can¡¯t handle the heat, can you?¡± She snickered, but I didn¡¯t respond.


    Instead, I shoved her cell phone back at her and exited the restroom amidst the gossip erupting among the women.


    ¡°Oh, just wait. Robert has a lot of exining to do.  I can¡¯t wait to see when he reveals everything. Do you want to meet his son as well? I brought him along and¡­¡±


    I could hear her taunts trailing behind me. This woman wasn¡¯t backing down. She was right on my tail, making me move faster with my desire to flee.


    My vision was blurry, and I couldn¡¯t see anything, but I kept walking, and when I got into the hall, I pushed past the crowd to get to him.


    I needed to see Robert and¡­


    A hand shot out and tightly gripped my arm, stopping me.


    Warm, strong hands snaked around my waist, preventing me from falling over. As I steadied myself, my nose sniffed, catching the familiar musky scent I¡¯de to love and cherish.


    The scent of the only man who could be my savior and undoing now.


    The man with secrets, I knew, could shatter me and break me into a thousand pieces.


    In a matter of months, I¡¯d given him my entire heart, and with him, I felt safe. But was I really?


    ¡°Oh, Robert¡­¡± I mumbled, voice breaking as I clung onto him as if my life depended on it.


    As I stood there, with my body pressed against his and a slew of emotions coursing through me, I only wanted to stop time and stay in this moment forever. Or perhaps I could pull away. Hide? Flee? Run? Run away from this situation and everything in it.


    Run home with Robert and forget everything that happened in the restroom between that woman and me.


    But I couldn¡¯t do that. I needed answers and wanted to hear his side of the story. I wanted him to look me in the eyes and tell me the truth, no matter how painful it was.


    So I slowly raised my head and looked into Robert¡¯s eyes. We were still trapped in an embrace, and I was frozen with fear.


    It was as if time stood still as our gazes locked on each other, and nothing else existed around us.


    His blue eyes were filled with shock, concern, and something else-it looked like pain, confusion, and hesitation mixed together.


    And then his jaw dropped as he softly asked me the question I couldn¡¯t even answer.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Renee? What happened? Who the fuck hurt you?¡±

 Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing

    ROBERT


    *A FEW MINUTES EARLIER*


    ¡°Please give me a minute, Mr. and Mrs. Charles. I need to check on someone.¡± I spoke to the elderly couple before me, and my gaze was drawn to the Rolex on my wrist.


    ¡°Certainly, Mr. rke. We¡¯ll be patient. The party is still going on, and we¡¯re not going anywhere.¡± Mr. Charles smiled at me, then returned his attention to his wife and whispered in her ear.


    They moved toward the crowded dance floor, where several elites and socialites had gathered, sipping their cocktails and mingling.


    With a sigh, I nced at my wristwatch for the umpteenth time and then back at the hall¡¯s entrance door, where Renee had vanished.


    Not just a few seconds ago, but nearly a half-hour, and I was bing increasingly concerned about her whereabouts with each tick of my watch.


    She should¡¯ve returned by now. It was unusual for her to spend so much time in the restroom, and as time passed, worry ate at my stomach like acid.


    Renee was neverte. She was always on time and given how the evening had caused such a strain on her, I knew she¡¯d want to spend every second with me. So where the hell was she?


    My fingers instinctively returned to the silver watch on my left wrist and I began to fiddle with the dainty essory as various thoughts raced through my mind.


    The well-ced air conditioners blew a cool breeze through the room, but it didn¡¯t ease the hotness I felt under my skin, and as if on cue, a bead of sweat trickled down my face.


    My patience was waning thin. I needed to check on her.


    With a swift yank, I ripped the mask off my face and handed it to a nearby waiter.


    Then, I began to stride purposefully out of the ballroom, past the crowds of other guests, making a beeline for the nearest exit. But then suddenly a voice rang out, stopping me on a dime.


    ¡°Mr. rke! Dad! Wait!¡±


    Instantly I froze in my tracks and rooted there, dread seeped through every part of me.


    ¡°The hell?!¡± I muttered to myself as I heard the all-too-familiar voice say again from behind me.


    ¡°Won¡¯t you turn around and acknowledge me, Father? For fuck¡¯s sake.¡±


    Dn? No fucking way. What was he doing here? How did he gain entry to the masked party? Who invited him? My mind was racing furiously.


    All thoughts of looking for Renee vanished at that moment. I focused solely on the sound of the voice behind me, calling my name with unmistakable annoyance.


    My eyes narrowed into slits as I slowly turned around to face him, and I clenched my jaw angrily, my expression hardening.


    My gaze locked onto two familiar blue orbs, and my blood ran cold. The sight of him made an uneasy feeling settle inside my gut.


    Standing a few feet away, under the illuminating chandelier, was my 23-year-old son, Dn.


    His dark hair, like mine, wasbed and slicked back with gel. On his face sat a mask that matched the shade of the dark blue suit he wore while holding a ss of champagne.


    His blue eyes gleamed with mischief and amusement as he stood with a smug look.


    ¡°Good day, Father.¡± He greeted again, nodding maniacally before sipping wine from his ss.


    He didn¡¯t say anything else after that. Instead, he stared at me with a smirk as if daring me to react to the tension between us.


    Oh, how I wish I could p that smug grin off his face.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± My voice was low and threatening.


    Eyes darting back and forth as I spoke, I tried to see if any guests or paparazzi had gotten wind of this encounter with my estranged son. Luckily for me, no one was paying attention to us.


    ¡°Well, hello to you as well, Dad.¡± Dn responded with sarcasm. ¡°You look great tonight.¡±


    ¡°Dn! What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Does it matter? We haven¡¯t seen each other in months, if not years, and this is how you greet your only son? Don¡¯t you miss me? Aren¡¯t you d to see me?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± I scoffed. ¡°Seeing you in unexpected ces makes me happy. It¡¯s not-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not what?¡± He suddenly cut in, a frown flickering as he spat out bitterly, ¡°This ce is an unexpected ce for us to meet, right? Since you never considered me worthy enough to be your son, you also think I¡¯m low to attend all these parties?¡±


    Gritting my jaw in irritation, I responded to his question. ¡°You know that¡¯s not what I meant¡­¡± I paused, trailing off. Then I asked him the question at the forefront of my mind. ¡°How did you know about this event? Did youe to see me because someone told you about the party? Are you keeping an eye on me?¡±


    ¡°Keeping an eye on you?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Since I arrived in Ondo, your mother¡¯s attempted to schedule dinner reservations for us, but you¡¯ve never shown up. Why?¡±


    ¡°Because I had other things to see to. I can¡¯t abandon my ns because of you.¡±


    ¡°So, I¡¯m not that important to you. I understand. I get it.¡±


    Heughed hysterically. ¡°Of course, you get it. It¡¯s pitiful to think you have a significant role in my life.¡±


    ¡°Dn¡­¡± I drawled, warning in my voice, but still, he continued.,


    ¡°For someone who cut me off from my inheritance when I was eighteen, you sure have no remorse.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t start this conversation right now, Dn.¡±


    ¡°Of course, I will. There¡¯re so many questions I¡¯d like to ask. But perhaps I should begin by asking why you¡¯ve never seen it fit to reach out to me all these years? Instead, my mother has to try and bring us together for you to respond. I¡¯ve done everything in my power to earn your trust. I¡¯ve done everything to be worthy of being called your son, heir, and sessor. I¡¯m through with college and have everything I need, but you-¡±


    ¡°You broke my trust when you obeyed your mother¡¯s words over mine, young man. You not only conspired with her to defraud me, but you almost caused me to lose a business empire I worked years to build. Even after that, you chose the path of the radical prodigal son. Were you remorseful? No! Don¡¯t you remember what you said in my office a few years ago? The stupid behavior you disyed in front of my colleagues before you left the room. Surely, you haven¡¯t forgotten so easily.¡± I spat icily as I stared at him, refusing to show emotion to the son who¡¯d casually disregarded me and followed in the footsteps of his errant mother.


    ¡°That¡¯s bullshit, Dad.¡± He abruptly snapped, his gaze fierce.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t Dn. You im I cut you off financially, but I still send you money. Natasha, my overseas assistant, funds your ount every three months, and I have the records. I only cut you and your mother out of the family business because you were both a thorn in my side. That¡¯s the only thing I did.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s it? You cut me out of your life and refused to check up on me all these years because of something I said and a few mistakes I made?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t cut you out of my life. Stop saying that. Have you forgotten that I gave you multiple chances to prove yourself? But you always let your mother¡¯s words get to you? You obey her like the little chick you are.¡±


    ¡°Wow!¡± He eximed.


    This time I let out a sigh, calming the rage brewing inside me.


    Looking around the busy hall and remembering Renee still hadn¡¯t arrived from the restroom, I faced Dn and asked, ¡°You still haven¡¯t told me who brought you here? Surely, you¡¯re not here to scour for potential business clients. Becausest I checked, you worked as a sales assistant in a downtown boutique. What are you-¡±


    ¡°Mother brought me. She¡¯s my date for the evening.¡±


    My face paled instantly, and a slight cough escaped my lips as I nearly choked on my saliva.


    Amanda was here. At this party? Had shee with him? No¡­ this was a joke-a lie.


    Another agonizing realization hit me like a punch to the stomach. My mind raced as I remembered thest time, I¡¯d seen my ex-wife.


    She¡¯d just visited my office a few days before and seen the invitation to the masked ball party on my desk.


    So, she¡¯d followed through with her threat-of attending the not-by-invitation-only party- and brought Dn with her. How convenient. Fuck!


    ¡°It might interest you that Mother has been fuming since you walked into the hall with a lovely young woman by your side. She¡¯s not in a good mood, and-¡±


    ¡°Wait, what did you just say?¡±


    ¡°Talking about that lovely woman you came with. I had no idea you had a thing for younger women. It seems like my old man¡¯s got a fetish. I¡¯m sure you don¡¯t see through the ruse. That woman is a gold digger after your money and-¡±


    ¡°You! Won¡¯t! Talk! About! My! Girlfriend!¡± I barked angrily, my voice bing increasingly loud, attracting stares from some guests nearby.


    ¡°Wow. And what would you do, Father? You can¡¯t possibly mean to tell me that the woman has such a strong hold on you. How old is she even? 20? 21? 22? Or God forbid, 19? How intriguing.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have time for your antics.¡± I muttered with a sneer, and ncing at my watch, I noticed that an hour had passed, and still Renee was not back.


    With the dawning news that Amanda was at the party, I knew I had to do something fast.


    ¡°Where¡¯s your mother?¡± I asked Dn.


    ¡°I have no idea.¡± He shrugged before continuing, ¡°She excused herself from mypany sometime earlier, and thest I saw her, she was headed to the restroom or something. She left through the nearest exit and-¡±


    Shit! Shit! The thought that ran through my head seemed too absurd to be true. But could it be?


    Amanda had visited the restroom. Renee also visited the restroom. Just like that, the disparate dots in my mind began to connect.


    My entire body felt paralyzed, unable to move or make a sound. A chill engulfed me, settling deep like an icy river rushing down my spine.


    Fuck! This was not a good sign. It wasn¡¯t at all.


    ¡°Are you going to¡­¡± Dn was saying, but I¡¯d already turned away from him, intent on getting to the restroom and salvaging a situation that spelled trouble.


    Before I reached the restroom, I saw a familiar figure with strawberry blonde curls marching through the crowd, her head bent as she walked haphazardly. Renee¡­


    When I caught sight of her reflection, a sharp pain erupted from my chest. Without further dy, my legs began to move on their own.


    My hands shot out, meeting her halfway, and I drew her tightly into my arms.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    A soft gasp escaped her lips as she buried her face in my shoulders, her breath hot against my neck, and my hands snaked around her waist, gripping gently.


    ¡°Oh, Robert¡­¡± She called out softly, almost inaudibly. Her voice sounded broken and hoarse as if she¡¯d been crying and I realized my worst nightmares hade true.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Renee?¡± I tenderly looked into her tear-filled doe-like eyes. ¡°What happened? Who the fuck hurt you?¡±


    ¡°Robert¡­ I¡­ I¡¯m at a loss for words. I¡­¡± She trailed off, huping and sniffing, but I persisted, despite my resolve fraying by the second.


    ¡°Speak to me, Renee.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ There was this woman in the restroom. She¡­¡± She started again but paused when suddenly someone called out her name from behind, and we both looked over my shoulder.


    It was Dn.


    He stood there with a strange expression on his face. One that appeared bemused, as if he couldn¡¯t believe the scene in front of him, and his jaw slowly dropped.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± Dn called out again, and I noticed Renee wiping her teary eyes with the back of her hands.


    She also had the same look of confusion on her face, and her eyes widening; I heard her mutter under her breath. ¡°I don¡¯t think my day could be any worse. What the hell is this scumbag doing here?¡±


    Scumbag? Were they acquainted? Did they know each other? What the fuck was going on? I asked myself the rhetoric question as I continued to observe the stare-down between my girlfriend and my son.


    Despite the noisy atmosphere, the tension in this secluded corner of the room became palpable, and it was one I couldn¡¯t condone any longer.


    I shook Renee¡¯s arms, bringing her gaze back to me. Before I could say something though, a mocking whistle rang out, followed by a loud resounding pping.


    It was none other than Amanda. The wolf in sheep¡¯s clothing.


    Her appearance made everyone in the hall stop in their tracks. They stopped whatever they were doing and focused on me-on us.


    As I locked eyes with her, she smiled triumphantly, satisfaction written all over her face. The corners of her lips curled upwards in a devilish, trouble-making smile.


    The bitch! My knuckles whitened, and I fumed inwardly, my entire body shaking in rage.


    ¡°Well. Well. Well.¡± She began, her voice still loud, as she waved her hands about. She continued to draw the attention of everyone in the hall.


    ¡°I suppose today will be a juicy night for the paparazzi¡­¡± She paused, strolling toward me. ¡°What a beautiful elite family reunion. Isn¡¯t this lovely?¡±


    Her words dripped sarcasm, but I could see where this conversation was headed.


    And just like that, all hell broke loose. Every intertwined secret I¡¯d kept hidden in my closet threatened to burst open, and I watched my world flip upside down instantly.

 The Public Scandal

    RENEE


    ¡°What a beautiful elite family reunion. Isn¡¯t this lovely?¡±


    As she spoke, her words dripped with phoniness and venom.


    My heartbeat quickened as I watched her saunter casually toward where Robert and I were standing, whistling and pping her hands maniacally, keeping the attention on her.


    My stomach churned with shock and anger, but I couldn¡¯t talk or move a muscle. I was stuck, frozen to the spot in Robert¡¯s arms, afraid to blink lest she noticed my fear.


    But I did blink. My tear-stainedshes fluttered as I looked at Robert, our gazes briefly meeting before he turned away. His grip on my shoulders tightened painfully.


    That expression on his face. He looked like someone forced to endure a painful and awkward situation-like a student caught doing something wrong and desperately wanting to flee.


    His lips were drawn into a thin line that showed no emotion. His eyes were lifeless, and his face had turned deathly pale.


    Terrified. He was terrified, I realized, and by God, how could that happen to such a strong and courageous man like him?


    Robert was crumbling in front of these people and seeing him in such a state broke my heart. But I couldn¡¯t forget about my situation.


    I needed answers. Though I likely had them already. Still, I wanted to hear him say it.


    ¡°Rob¡­ Robert¡­¡± I called out softly, sniffing. When he dragged his nk gaze toward me, I asked, ¡°This is the woman who confronted me in the restroom. Do you know who she is?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ Renee. Let¡¯s leave. I¡¯ll exin when we¡¯re alone.¡± He said, his voice cracking. ¡°I promise I¡¯ll tell you everything you need to know.¡±


    ¡°Just answer me, Robert,¡± I said softly, my voice shaking. ¡°Do you know her?¡±


    ¡°Fuck! Yes, Renee, I do. I-¡±


    ¡°And why are you so hush-hush? Say it out loud for everyone to hear, dear husband.¡± The woman¡¯s screeching voice cut Robert off. I felt a sinking feeling in the pits of my stomach.


    Husband. That one word made my stomach twist in agony.


    I gasped and looked at Robert, willing him to speak.


    ¡°Renee. I¡¯ll exin. Let¡¯s go, and I¡¯ll tell you everything you need to know. Please, don¡¯t panic.¡±


    Don¡¯t panic?¡¯ I scoffed inwardly and stepped away from him, watching his hands on my shoulders slowly drop.


    The painful realization that he was married, had a son, and was still in amitted rtionship with me, hit me like a punch to the gut. I couldn¡¯t take it any longer. This was worse. Way worse than a cheating lover.


    ¡°Everyone is waiting for you, Robert. They want to hear what you have to say,¡± The woman said and my eyes widened in surprise at her insistence.


    She was staring at Robert, waiting to see if her jab had hit the nail on the head. And sure enough, it did.


    I heard his slight intake of breath, and his jaw dropped open as if he wanted to say something, but nothing came.


    After what seemed like an eternity of silence, she repeated her words like a nail scratching on old piano keys. ¡°Well, since you don¡¯t want to say anything, maybe I could help you. How about you tell everyone you brought your wife and son to a party you¡¯re attending with your new fuck-toy?¡±


    ¡°What the¡­!¡± I eximed, my feet tumbling as murmurs and shocked gasps echoed around the room.


    Worse still, the paparazzi, watching the ensuing drama for too long, brought out their cameras and began clicking furiously, taking notes of this juicy story for tomorrow¡¯s headline.


    The camera shes lit up the room, blinding us momentarily, and I ducked my head down as Robert put an arm around my waist protectively. There wasn¡¯t much he could do though, considering he couldn¡¯t turn and shield me from their view.


    When I ducked down, I saw the woman again, and my heart stopped.


    She was smiling at me. Her red lips stretched wide to reveal two rows of sharp teeth. Her hair fell in wisps around her face, and her blue eyes sparkled as sheughed maliciously.


    Her deep husky chuckle sent chills down my spine, and I shivered.


    Her look was one of triumph and as she held my gaze, a sickening fear swept over me like a wave crashing against a rocky outcropping.


    This woman. This horrible, twisted creature was not one to be trifled with. She was a threat. There was no doubt about it.


    She was filled with malice and insanity. She was the embodiment of evil. A monstrous being. A demon. She was terrifying to look at, but even more rming was the knowledge that she was out to get me.


    Even amid the camera shes, the never-ending questions, and the chaos in the hall, I couldn¡¯t stop staring at her. Her stare back never wavered.


    Her smile turned dark and predatory. I could only snap out of my trance and pull myself away from her gaze when I heard Robert¡¯s strained tone.


    Grabbing my hands, he gently squeezed my fingers as if reassuring me with his touch. It didn¡¯t work and a whish of emotions coursing through me, I tore my hand away from his and took a staggering step back.


    ¡°Renee¡­!¡± He called out. ¡°Security will be here soon. Let¡¯s go out the door and¡­¡±¡±


    ¡°She¡­ she said you brought your son here¡­?¡± I trailed off. The words stuck in my throat. ¡°Where¡¯s your son? Who is he? Are you really married? ¡±


    His expression shifted before he responded, his words piercing deep into my already wounded heart. ¡°Renee, I was married. I¡¯m divorced. She¡¯s-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m his son.¡± Someone interrupted, the familiar voice high-pitched and unwavering.


    I spun on my heels, almost tripping over the hem of my dress, as I stared in horror.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    It was Dn. And he was standing behind Robert.


    Fuck¡­ I¡¯dpletely forgotten about him!


    Amid this public scandal, I¡¯d forgotten he was there in the hall, and we¡¯d almost started a conversation before Robert¡¯s wife or ex-wife, or whatever she was, interrupted.


    As I stared at Dn in disbelief, I shuddered slightly as his words rang in my head repeatedly.


    He was Robert¡¯s son?! No! No! It couldn¡¯t be true. This was yet another ruse-a lie. My mind raced in despair. I was perplexed, trying hard to understand, but my brain couldn¡¯t make sense of anything.


    Was I dreaming, or was this actually happening?


    Dn was Robert¡¯s son, and simply put, I¡¯d had sex with both father and son.


    I¡¯d had a forbidden affair with two people with the same bloodline and from all indications, this wasn¡¯t a prank.


    The whole world seemed to havee to a standstill. At that moment, no one spoke. No one moved.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± Robert said, breaking my trance as he tried to touch me, but I flinched.


    ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± I cried out, pulling away from him, my arms tight against my chest. Unshed tears gathered at the back of my eyes.


    Why me? What have I done? What have I be? My mind reeled, and my legs wobbled helplessly.


    I wanted to scream. I wanted to yell. I wanted the floor to copse and swallow me.


    I wanted to flee. I needed to get away from this humiliating and degrading debacle. I wanted to do anything at all to take my mind off this horror.


    Now more than ever, I was struck with the realization that I really was a slut. The world¡¯s dirtiest slut and whore.


    God! I felt so filthy.


    I cast a nce at Robert again. He was standing a few feet away, pain and regret evident in the creases of his brow.


    His eyes begged me to understand, but I could only stare at him in shock, hurt, fury, anger, irritation¡­ damn!


    He had no idea this would happen. Or did he? He¡¯d done preliminary research on me. He had to have known. He must have known about Dn, yet he¡¯d still pursued me and made me fall head over heels in love with him.


    ¡®Or maybe he didn¡¯t know.¡¯ My subconscious didn¡¯t want to believe he would do this, but I didn¡¯t know what to think.


    ¡°Renee. Let¡¯s head outside. I can exin.¡± Robert said again, this time taking a step toward me, and I responded by taking another step back.


    ¡°No, no.¡± I shook my head frantically, turning to look at Dn once more, gauging his reaction.


    His expression terrified me. He stood tall, chin up, arms folded tightly across his chest, shoulders squared, and jaw set firm. I watched as his gaze harden and his deep blue eyes filled with rage and hatred.


    He had to have put two and two together and realized I was having an affair with his father.


    He was probably disgusted by me as well. Who wouldn¡¯t be, after all? It wasn¡¯t my fault, but at the same time, it felt like it was.


    ¡°I¡­ Dn, this must be a misunderstanding.¡±


    ¡°Sure, I guess. You do have lots of exining to do!¡± His voice thundered, and he had a chilling smirk on his lips, his icy re never wavering.


    I didn¡¯t get a chance to say anything because security and a few other bouncers rushed into the hall.


    They¡¯d arrived to restore order to the party and clear up themotion caused by the sudden mass arrival of journalists and paparazzi.


    But it was toote, at least, for me. The damage was already done.


    They couldn¡¯t save my ruined evening. And now the only thing I could do was leave this damned building.


    I whirled around, not saying anything to Robert or speaking at all, and slowly I began walking toward the nearest exit.


    As I approached the door, some reporters were waiting for me, with determined expressions, closing ranks around me like wolves circling prey.


    Of course, they hadn¡¯t gotten the memo from the security guards, and as I approached, they swarmed around me. Thrusting their microphones directly into my face and blinding me with their camera shes.


    They shouted questions and obscenities, but I ignored them, and instead, with my head hung low, I increased my pace and walked as fast as I could.


    I heard Robert¡¯s loud voice calling my name from behind, but I didn¡¯t turn around. I moved faster toward the swinging entrance door, ignoring the murmurs and stares.


    Once I stepped out of the building and into the street, I continued running away blindly, with no idea where I was going. I just had to leave. I had to escape this goddamned ce.


    One thing was certain now though. My life had changed forever. And this time, for worse.

 Regrets!

    ROBERT


    Regret!


    That word lingered in my mind, biting at me until I was too sick and tired to think of anything else.


    It was eroding the edges of my sanity, making it difficult for me to breathe properly or think clearly. I felt a deep sadness as I watched Renee¡¯s silhouette fade into the darkness.


    That¡¯s when I realized how much of a jerk I¡¯d been.


    She had vanished. My woman was gone, and the worst part was that I couldn¡¯t chase after her like I used to.


    Instead, I¡¯d told one of the nearby security guards to follow her and ensure she got home safely. I would keep an eye out for her. After a while, perhaps days, I¡¯d get through to her and¡­


    ¡®And then what?¡¯ My mind screamed at me. Despite my best efforts at being strong, tears prickled behind my eyelids.


    Back in the hall, I¡¯d seen the pain swimming in her eyes and the look of utter disbelief, fear, and disgust as she saw me for who I truly was.


    She had every right to flee-to turn around and run away from me as fast as she could-because I¡¯d betrayed her.


    I¡¯d be paralyzed, frozen in ce. I¡¯d let Amanda get away with her drama and lies.


    Speaking of that bitch¡­ Where the hell was she? I spun around, fists clenched.


    With the cool night breeze whipping around me, a chill in the air made my bones shiver. I began walking back into the hall, rage fueling my steps.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Was she still here? Oh, the things I¡¯d do-the things I would say to her. My gaze swept across the crowded room, but I didn¡¯t find her anywhere.


    She wasn¡¯t amid the paparazzi or mingling with the socialites. She was nowhere in sight.


    Even Dn was gone, and it struck me.


    They¡¯d left after causing havoc and wrecking my life like they always did.


    This was a new low for them. I was furious. So enraged, and Lord knows if I got ahold of any of them-of Amanda especially, I would kill her.


    I¡¯d grab her by the throat and¡­


    ¡®And what will you do?¡¯ My subconscious chimed again, the voice in my head taunting. ¡®You could have done much more earlier and stood up for the woman you imed you loved. But what exactly did you do? Stand frozen, tongue-tied, and wait for security to arrive and do nothing. You could¡¯ve refuted Amanda¡¯s half-truths and even denied knowing her, but you didn¡¯t. You let her words get to Renee, and now you¡¯ll pay heavily for that. You just see.¡¯


    I shuddered at the memory. Why had I remained silent? What spirit possessed me?


    ¡®Amanda¡¯s evil spell, of course. That¡¯s what got to you. Just like thest time you let her trample on you. Regardless of your resources or how powerful you im to be, you allowed the media to get their piece for tonight. I can only imagine what the entertainment headline will read tomorrow. Poor Renee¡­¡¯


    ¡°Fuck! I¡­¡± When I felt a cold hand on my shoulder, I began to curse, my jaw tightening.


    I turned around and met the worried gaze of Mr. Ryan, the party¡¯s host.


    Mr. and Mrs. Charles, the couple from earlier, stood by his side, looking concerned.


    ¡°Good day, Mr. rke. I¡¯m deeply sorry for what happened, and I apologize for the security team¡¯s tardiness. I-¡± Mr. Ryan began, but I cut him off as he was about to finish.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, man.¡± I muttered, my raging temper calming as I smiled at them even though I was burning inside.


    ¡°Are you certain you¡¯re-¡±


    ¡°Good day, Mr. rke. Is it true you brought your girlfriend to be publicly humiliated by your estranged wife and-¡±


    I noticed a redhead woman shoving her camera and microphone in my face, and I lost it.


    ¡°Will you get the hell out of my face?¡± I instinctively growled as I raised my arms and blocked the camera.


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°Get the hell out!¡± I roared, fists flying, as I smashed the device instantly.


    This seemed to do the trick because she instantly backed off, as well as the other reporters mulling around, and chaos erupted again.


    Soon security arrived, and they began escorting me and Mr. Ryan, who remained by my side, out of the hall through the back exit.


    With my vision slightly distorted and ignoring the gasps and murmurs that¡¯d broken out, I continued to search for Amanda and Dn, but I didn¡¯t see them.


    At the same time, I felt my phone vibrate in my pocket, signaling an iing text.


    I took it out and read the text with increasing trepidation.


    It was from the security guard I¡¯d sent after Renee some minutes ago, and the message read, ¡®She arrived safely. Before leaving, I ensured she got to her room in the apartment building.¡¯


    ¡°Any problems, Mr. rke?¡± As I stared at my phone, Mr. Ryan¡¯s voice broke through.


    ¡°Not at all.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Once again, I¡¯m truly sorry. I apologize for what happened today. I had no idea your ex-wife would be present. With the party not being strictly by invitation, you know¡­ I would¡¯ve told security to send her away, but¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, man. It¡¯s not your fault. I understand.¡± I spoke up, my jaw clenched.


    ¡°I had no idea tonight would turn out this way. I¡¯m so sorry.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, to be honest. I¡¯ll take care of everything.¡±


    ¡°Alright. What about your lovelypanion? Did she leave?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Yes, she fucking did.¡± I spat out, my face hardening and my chest twisted in pain.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry about that. I hope you¡¯ll be able to resolve everything, though, and if you require my assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.¡± Mr. Ryan concluded, his brow furrowed in sympathy.


    ¡°Thank you, man.¡± I mumbled, and after exchanging goodbyes, I watched him turn around and walk into the hall, leaving me alone.


    I had no idea how long I stood there staring nkly into space, but then the familiar voice of my driver brought me out of my reverie, and I blinked twice.


    ¡°Sir!¡± He called out, waving his hands. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking for you all night.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t find Miss Renee and-¡±


    ¡°She left.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Would you like to go home now?¡±


    ¡°Home?¡± I scoffed bitterly, confronted with the startling reality that the one ce I called home-the one human who made me feel at home-no longer existed.


    For some reason, the thought triggered another stab of pain in my chest, and I took a few moments to regain control.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure I want to go to the hotel right now¡­¡± I said after a while, my feet moving as I followed him to where the car was parked.


    ¡°Where should I take you then?¡± My driver asked, his hands reaching out to open the car door for me.


    ¡°Anywhere. Just drive around the city. I need time to think and clear my head.¡± I replied.


    ¡°Alright, Sir.¡± He said before shutting the door.


    As soon as the car¡¯s ignition started, silence filled the vehicle, and leaning against the plush leather seats, my mind raced with different thoughts as the night¡¯s events repeatedly yed in my head.


    How ironic that Renee had been by my side, hours earlier. We would¡¯ve been returning to the hotel rtively happy and in love after spending a wonderful time together. But now?


    I¡¯d messed up horribly, and she left me.


    I¡¯d lost her. This woman who¡¯d walked into my life, and changed it for the better. The creature I¡¯d fallen madly and irrevocably in love with. The soul that shared my heart and the bane of my existence, and yet, I¡¯d let this happen.


    She¡¯d given me so much hope, and she¡¯d trusted me.


    However despite her pestering questions, I¡¯d refused to provide her with the desired answers, and now she¡¯d gotten them in the worst way possible.


    With unshed tears still burning at the back of my eyes, I asked myself if I¡¯d truly loved Renee. I thought I¡¯d cared for her and done the right thing by keeping my secrets hidden, only for everything to be revealed in some dramatic showdown.


    Had I truly loved her as much as I imed? Or was she another conquest and fleeting wanderer in my lonely, pathetic life?


    God, I was going crazy, and my thoughts were no longer mine.


    My world had been transformed into this dark void of emptiness, and nothing would ever be the same again, no matter how hard I tried to return to reality.


    Everything had crumbled because I¡¯d been such a coward, refusing to protect the one most valuable thing in my life.


    This agony-it was a horrifying sensation that gripped my heart so tightly. An ache I couldn¡¯t quite understand and wouldnt be able to eliminate. At all.


    Shutting down my thoughts for a split second, I nced at my phone, fingers hovering over the dial button as I considered calling Renee for the umpteenth time tonight. But I backed out at thest minute.


    Silly of me to think she¡¯d even want to speak to me or pick up the call. She probably hated me with every fiber of her being now. For fuck¡¯s sake, and I couldn¡¯t me her.


    Because she was right.


    I¡¯d ruined our rtionship the first time and done all I could to salvage it. We were getting by, and now I¡¯d ruined it again.


    However, this time, I realized that the damage was irreversible. I¡¯d let the demons from my past control my actions and emotions, and I would pay dearly for it.


    Oh, so dearly¡­ and this was just the beginning!

 Victory!

    Forewarned, forearmed- to be prepared is half the victory. ~Miguel de Cervantes.


    ~~


    AMANDA


    Victory! This one word rang out in my head like a triumphant yell.


    I let the adrenaline wash over me like an orgasmic wave as I stared out the car window, watching the buildings sh by.


    The cool breeze whipped through my hair, and I could almost taste freedom in the air, but there was also something bittersweet about it, an intangible longing that made my heart ache.


    That sense of power-of finally aplishing what I¡¯d been nning for days, if not months-was gone, reced by an unsettling sense of regret and¡­


    ¡®Regret? ¡®What in the world was I thinking?¡¯ I pondered sharply, shaking my head slightly and smiling broadly.


    I closed my eyes briefly as I let the sense of victory wash over me again, reying the previous hours¡¯ events in my mind.


    Robert and Renee. The paparazzi andmotion I initiated. The press, the cameras, and the gossip.


    Damn! I¡¯d done well. And to think I was only getting started.


    My grin widened as I remembered how devastated that bitch had been when I¡¯d revealed Robert¡¯s secrets to her.


    She¡¯d been stunned and clueless. Her expression showed I¡¯d gotten under her skin, and I reveled in that minor triumph.


    And then Robert had done nothing to refute my assertions. He¡¯d just stood there, pale and silent, while I¡¯d practically cackled at his misfortune.


    So much for him being the man. So much for trying to save his reputation at such a prestigious event.


    He¡¯d been under my spell, and I chuckled as I imagined how much pain and agony he¡¯d be in now. How utterly humiliated he must be feeling, too.


    His rtionship with that whore was obviously in shambles, if not over, and this knowledge filled me with immense joy and satisfaction.


    Robert belonged to me!


    Despite our divorce, he will never be free of me. Despite how badly he wanted to get out of my chokehold and how he¡¯d threatened me with indefinite restraining orders. He was still under my thumb, whether he liked it or not. He couldn¡¯t leave me either in this life or the next.


    I would always find him no matter where he went or who he met. Always.


    When we said our vows on the altar twenty-four years ago, our fate was sealed, and nothing could change that.


    Nothing ever would. And indeed, not some sleazy bitch whose name would be stered all over the news tomorrow.


    My lips twisted into a contented grin.


    Yes! The media would undoubtedly have a field day once morning came. This scandal would be widely publicized, and the headlines alone would ruin her reputation.


    That should teach the bitch a thing or two and if she didn¡¯t heed this lesson, I¡¯d do something far worse.


    But, in the meantime, I had to celebrate my minor aplishment. And what better way to do so than to have a wild night?


    I dragged my gaze back into the confines of the vehicle. My son sat quietly beside me, so I focused on him instead.


    He hadn¡¯t said anything since we¡¯d left the masked party, and now his silence weighed down the car like a dark cloud.


    ¡°Hello, D?¡± I softly called out, shifting my position to get him to look at me.


    He didn¡¯t respond immediately, and instead of turning to face me, he cast a distant nce out the window.


    His hand loosely gripped the door handle, and a slight tremor ran through his fingers as he gripped tight.


    Something was wrong. Very wrong. My eyes narrowed.


    Leaning forward slightly, I asked, ¡°Dn, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Mother, everything is fucking wrong! Every single thing!¡±


    The words burst from his lips, and I jerked backward instinctively, startled by the harshness of his tone.


    ¡°Son-¡±


    ¡°My entire life¡¯s been shattered. To make matters worse, I despise the old man who calls himself my father. What a jerk!¡± He continued to thunder, this time turning to face me.


    ¡°What exactly are you saying? What exactly do you mean?¡±


    ¡°No need to exin. Here, have this.¡± He passed me a cell phone with trembling hands.


    ¡°What should I do with this?¡±


    ¡°Look at it! Look at those pictures.¡±


    His words came out in broken shards, each punctuated with an angry jabbing of his finger on the phone screen, and my chest tightened.


    This wasn¡¯t my Dn-this was someone else entirely, and he appeared agitated and distraught. What could be the problem? I wondered, but then I remembered the device I was holding.


    I knew it had all the necessary answers, so I looked down at the lit-up screen.


    That¡¯s when I saw it. Images of Dn and an all-too-familiar strawberry-blonde-haired woman. She stared at him with a broad smile and flirtatious looks, and they were photographed in various intimate poses.


    ¡°Oh, my gosh!¡± My mouth dried up as I eximed softly.


    My heart plummeted to the floor, and I sucked in a sharp breath as the realization hit me.


    Renee and Dn. They were acquainted. Was she an ex-girlfriend or simply a friend? ording to the photos, she was more than just a friend.


    Also, I recalled correctly they¡¯d talked back at the party. Amidst the haze and confusion, I saw them together, and he¡¯d confronted her and asked some questions.


    I didn¡¯t hear their conversation, however. But I¡¯d seen the look of fury and anger etched across Dn¡¯s features before she left and ran outside.


    Now that I thought about it¡­ I cleared my throat, feigning ignorance, and asked, ¡°What do these photos mean?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s as obvious as day, Mother. My father is fucking my ex-girlfriend.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Remember that girl I told you I broke up with a few months ago?¡± He asked, and I nodded hesitantly.


    ¡°That was Renee. She was my first love. I was with her through college. The woman I wanted to spend the rest of my life with before I messed everything up and¡­¡±


    As my face turned ashen white and my head in sudden disarray I drowned out the rest of his ramblings. I put two and two together, and my mind began to race.


    Renee. That motherfucking slut. The whore had mutual affairs with both my son and my ex-husband.


    Was this a fluke? What the fuck was going on?


    Anger surged through my veins, filling me with a boiling-hot rage, searing through me like acid.


    That scumbag! I despised her even more now, and by the time I was done with her, she would regret ever crossing paths with me, my son, or even Robert!


    I briefly closed my eyes as I imagined her with Robert, and then Dn and the scene in my head sent a sharp splitting pain through my skull.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± As I massaged the bridge of my nose, I cursed aloud.


    I could only see red, crimson red. A vision of death and annihtion.


    ¡°I can¡¯t get my head around it all. I kept telling myself it was all a dream when I saw her tonight at the party in my father¡¯s arms. I tried to persuade myself that she was not his date for the evening and-¡±


    ¡°Can you tell me what happened between you two?¡± I cut Dn off in the middle of his speech while clenching my fists.


    ¡°It¡¯s aplicated story. One that I don¡¯t want to bring up. But she¡¯s a slut, isn¡¯t she? I despise her so much right now, and I can¡¯t believe she¡¯d spread her legs so wide open for-¡±


    ¡°Goodness!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s a slut. I believe that now more than ever. Was this something she did on purpose? As retaliation for what happened between us? She had to find and seduce my father. I¡¯m sick to my stomach. And she dared to say she had no idea and would exinter. What did that mean? Damnit!¡±


    His voice was steadily rising until it was a snarl. His shoulders were tense and rigid, and his entire body radiated anger.


    An idea struck me as I silently watched him and tried to calm the raging fury within me.


    ¡°I believe she did this to get back at you.¡±


    ¡°You think so, too?¡±


    ¡°Yes. This is the perfect payback and revenge n for any woman. She¡¯s a real whore.¡± I spat out, my teeth grinding viciously.


    ¡°Damn, if she did this on purpose, I¡¯ll find her and make her pay! If she did this to spite me, I¡¯ll kill her. I¡¯m going to rip her to shreds for stooping so low.¡±


    My heart broke for him. I could feel his rage, pain, and anguish. However, a smirk formed on my lips as a sense of pleasure and fulfillment rose within me.


    ¡°Son¡­¡± I gently called out, grabbing his left wrist and squeezing it.


    ¡°Yes, Mother.¡±


    ¡°Are you still interested in her?¡±? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°Interested in who? Renee? That gold digger and slut? Mother, she slept with Father! How could you think I¡¯d ever want her again? All I feel now when I hear her name is shame and fury. I don¡¯t want to think about what our mutual friends will say when they hear about this. Damn, ma, I fucking hate her right now. With every ounce of my soul.¡±


    ¡°Perfect!¡± Iughed once more before adding, ¡°You know what? I know how we can handle this situation.¡±


    Dn¡¯s brows rose in question, he looked at me with incredulity, and the smirk on my lips widened even more.


    ¡°Do you mean-¡°He started, but I stopped him. ¡°Yes, I mean whatever you¡¯re thinking. You and I both despise her, so this shouldn¡¯t be hard. We could join forces and end her rtionship with your father.¡±


    ¡°Woah!¡±


    ¡°Yes. I¡¯ll need your assistance to pull this off. Her actions sicken me to my core. I despised her solely because she¡¯d slept with your father, and now I find out she¡¯s also slept with my son. Damn! This is so maddening!¡±


    As I finished talking, a heavy silence descended upon us, and Dn stared nkly at me for a second.


    He was probably thinking about what I¡¯d said, so I didn¡¯t bother him any further.


    After several seconds of silence and a deep sigh, he finally responded, ¡°Okay, Mother. Let¡¯s do this.¡±


    Smiling broadly, I extended my hand for a handshake and mumbled, ¡°We have a deal, Son, and this is just the beginning for Renee, or whatever her name is.¡±


    ¡°I can only imagine¡­.¡± He scoffed, a wry smile curling up his thin lips. A rush of adrenaline coursed through me.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see what you have in store for her, Mother. Considering how you humiliated her tonight, I can tell you know your ways very well.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you see, Son. Just watch me.¡± I chuckled, dragging my gaze out the car window once more, a giggle bubbling from deep within my throat.


    ¡°How about we get some drinks and celebrate tonight?¡± He offered, and a wave of deja vu washed over me.


    To think I¡¯d wanted us to go out for drinks before this whole Renee conversation.


    ¡°Well, that sounds wonderful!¡±


    A grin spread across my face as I rxed against the plush leather seat of the car, and I felt a weight lift from my shoulders.


    I now had an ally in the form of my son, and with his assistance, I would destroy that conniving home wrecker.


    I¡¯d get rid of her once and for all, along with everything she cared about.


    Theing days would be so much fun, and I couldn¡¯t wait!

 Doomed For Life?

    RENEE


    Monday came too fast, as usual.


    Watery eyes fluttering open, I looked at the clock by my bedside with a frown as the numbers blurred together.


    It was seven in the morning.


    I should be getting ready for my morning shift at work. I told myself this but couldn¡¯t drag myself out of bed.


    I felt trapped, strewn atop the soft mattress, with swollen eyes and aching bones. It wasn¡¯t just theck of sleep-my nights had been spent crying my eyes out-or the fatigue.


    No. It was much more.


    The fortified walls built within me were no longer there. The barriers between me and the emotions that flooded my heart were long gone.


    And now, since the night of the masked ball, the floodgates of guilt, anger, shame, and repulsion.


    These emotions spilled forth when I thought of him. Whenever I saw his name light up my phone screen as he barraged me with never-ending streams of messages. Or heard, ¡°Please call me!¡±ing from my voicemail after I refused to pick up.


    Gosh! How could I have been so delusional? How could I not have seen thising sooner?


    The secrets he¡¯d refused to tell me about, his promises ofmitment, and he¡¯d¡­ ¡°Fuck!¡± I muttered, my lips quivering as I tried to hold back my tears.


    My right hand went to my aching forehead, gently massaging it with my fingers, while the other held my pillow, gripping the poorfort object tightly.


    Why me? Why did I always end up in situations where I got so badly hurt? Why did fate keep throwing these cmitous misfortunes my way?


    Why did the universe have to be so cruel and bring me someone like this? Not just any man but my ex-boyfriend¡¯s father.


    It wasn¡¯t fair. I, Renee Micheal, didn¡¯t deserve this. My weak heart didn¡¯t deserve it, either. Not after what it¡¯d been through.


    With a muffled sob, I buried my face in another pillow, crying quietly.


    As I drifted off into nothingness, my body stiffened when I heard a constant knocking at the door.


    ¡°Renee, please open up.¡± The familiar voice, panicked and distraught, hollered outside the door.


    ¡°Nicole?¡­¡± I weakly croaked, my gaze darting to the side of the room where her bed was.


    It was empty except for the bedsheet, which was neatly arranged.  She didn¡¯t sleep here, and as I slowly rose from my bed, I wondered why.


    Last I recall, she¡¯d been by my side the night before, whisperingforting words in my ears while I¡¯d bawled my eyes out and cried over Robert. But now?


    ¡°Nicole?¡± I called out as I approached the bedroom door, suddenly feeling uneasy.


    The pounding on the door ceased, then resumed, apanied by her frantic cry, ¡°Renee?! Please open the door! There¡¯s something you need to see.¡±


    Something I needed to see? What was she talking about?


    Opening the door, I stepped aside so she coulde in and turned around to face her.


    I asked tentatively, ¡°What¡¯s going on, Nicole? What do I need to see?¡±


    I took a moment to look at her. She was wearing her trainers and workout clothes. She must have gone for a run while I was still sleeping.


    I let out a sigh of relief.


    However when I nced at her, I noticed something unusual. She had her mouth wide open, tapping furiously at her phone, and finally, she met my gaze.


    ¡°Have you checked your phone today?¡± She asked softly, almost inaudibly, and I shook my head.


    ¡°Oh my God, Renee.¡± She eximed, her face paling as she stepped away from me.


    ¡°What is it, Nicole?¡± Even though I had an inkling of the problem, I asked her to tell me, my heart pounding.


    ¡°I¡­ Renee, I¡¯m not sure where to begin or what to say. I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m¡­¡± She paused, shaking her head inexplicably.


    Tension, fear, and worry were visible in her features, making my heart ache with pain and curiosity.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t check my phone this morning because I didn¡¯t want to see Robert¡¯s texts and phone calls. Could you show me whatever you don¡¯t want to say aloud? I already know what it is, but just let me see and confirm it.¡±


    The words came out in a rush, and even though I was trying my best to be strong, I was silently dying inside.


    ¡°It¡¯s far worse than whatever you might have imagined, Renee¡­ here¡­¡± She stammered, finally thrusting her phone at me with trembling hands.


    ¡°God!¡± I gasped, my gaze darting over the image disyed on the device. But the headlines shocked me the most.


    ¡°Renee, this is terrible! They¡¯re referring to you as a slut and a home wrecker. Every headline in the entertainment section is filled with spections and theories about how you slept with a popr billionaire and his son. Damn¡­ Fuck! How did they know?¡±


    Her voice was tinged with fear and horror, as if every word was physically hurting her. And it was. She was indeed in distress. She shared my anguish.


    I also came to understand something. This wasn¡¯t some random gossip or tabloid article that would pass off soon enough.


    This was real, and their usations were the truth. The realization terrified me. It chilled me to the bone, and I choked back a sob.


    ¡°Oh no¡­¡± Nicole murmured, her hands pulling me into a desperately needed embrace.


    ¡°Dn¡­ Dn told them. He must have made a pretty profit from that piece of information. Or maybe his mother, I don¡¯t even know anymore.¡±


    ¡°What a prick!¡± Nicole cursed, and I sniffed.


    ¡°He must¡¯ve done this for the money. I saw his look of disgust¡­ and¡­ I¡­ I mean, I expected the headline to be filled with news of Robert¡¯s and my rtionship scandal. I was waiting for Monday to face whatever came my way. But this, Nicole, is far worse than I could¡¯ve imagined. Just like you said. Oh my God¡­ God!¡±


    I cried harder, unable to stop myself.


    My world was falling apart, which did not bode well for my future.


    My reputation was in shambles, and who knows how much further harm these articles could cause to my image? To my professional life? My job and¡­


    Speaking of my job¡­ I blinked twice, then backed away from Nicole.


    ¡°What time is it right now?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s almost eight. What¡¯s the problem?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to the restaurant. I¡¯m runningte for my morning shift.¡±


    ¡°Huh? You¡¯re going nowhere, Renee. With what¡¯s happening now, you might get bombarded by the paparazzi if they see you. This isn¡¯t the best time for you to go out.¡±


    ¡°Staying locked in here won¡¯t do me any good either. I have to make some¡­.¡±


    She cut me off firmly before I could finish. ¡°You¡¯ve spent the entire night, or is it weekend, crying your eyes out and barely eating. You can barely stand upright, and you look like a mess. So no! You¡¯re not going anywhere.¡±


    ¡°No, Nicole¡­¡± I croaked, sniffing and taking up a stance. ¡°I¡¯m going to go to work, get through my shift, ande home. I don¡¯t care who sees me, and if the paparazzi question me, I¡¯ll ignore them. I don¡¯t give a damn about them.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not as simple as you make it out to be, Renee.¡±


    ¡°Well then, what am I supposed to do? Wait till tomorrow? Until the next morning? Until I forget this ever happened? Which will be a long time¡­. Nicole, there¡¯s nothing I can do but handle this with a straight face. Even if I tried to erase everything that happened on Saturday night and pretend it never happened, nothing I could say would help. So I guess I¡¯d better start getting used to it.¡± I finished, my chest heaving as I raged.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± Nicole called out, attempting to grab my wrists, but I pulled away, refusing.


    Instead, I stepped away from her and began walking to the bathroom, determined to get my day started and face the demons awaitinged me.


    It was going to be a long day. Regardless, I would face it head-on with all the grace and dignity I could muster.


    ~~


    When I stepped out of the cab in front of the restaurant, it turned out that Nicole¡¯s intuitions and mine had been correct.


    The paparazzi were there, with cameras and microphones in hand, and the look of recognition on their faces when they saw me said it all-they¡¯d been waiting for me.


    They must have researched me and obtained information about my workce from whomever, so they¡¯d chosen to ost me this sunny morning.


    ¡°Damn!¡± I mumbled as I walked toward the building entrance, intent on ignoring and getting past them.


    I should¡¯ve known better because all hell broke loose as soon as I got within range of them.


    ¡®There she is, the scandal princess.¡¯


    ¡®Miss Renee Micheal, may we speak with you?¡¯


    ¡®Would you mind answering these few questions to clear up the allegations against you?¡¯


    ¡®Is it true, Miss Renee, that you slept with billionaire Robert rke to retaliate against his son, your ex-boyfriend?¡¯


    ¡®What are your thoughts on this? Surely you¡¯re not the home wrecker and whore that the media portrays you to be?¡¯


    Various voices screamed questions at me, each louder than thest.


    Even if I tried to shield my face with my hands, I knew it wouldn¡¯t help, and worse still, I couldn¡¯t move.


    Considering how many people surrounded me, I wasn¡¯t even sure how I managed to keep upright and standing.


    I tried to look up, straight at the transparent restaurant sses, to see if amotion was happening there too, but I saw nothing.


    My vision was clustered and¡­ ¡°Woah!¡±


    A strong pair of hands circled my waist and dragged me. I stiffened, not knowing who it was.


    Then I heard a very familiar feminine voice-Sally, my colleague. She whispered some incorrigible words into my ear as she pushed past the throngs of reporters and journalists and that¡¯s when I noticed she¡¯d brought some of the restaurant security guards with her.


    ¡°I¡¯vee to save you from these media mongers. Don¡¯t freak out.¡± She said, soothing me and I softly sighed in relief.


    She guided me through the crowd with her hand tightly gripping my wrist, and with the assistance of the security, we finally made it into the restaurant building, albeit through the back.


    Customers were out front, and if we followed through the entrance, I would be bombarded with another string of questions from them and my coworkers, and I wasn¡¯t ready for that.


    ¡°Oh, Sally¡­¡± I started breathlessly, dropping my handbag on a nearby table in the storeroom.


    As soon as we got inside, she pulled me into an embrace and I let out a choked sob.


    ¡°Renee, I¡¯m so sorry that happened. It broke my heart seeing what you had to go through out there. Hopefully, security will be able to disperse them soon.¡± She said.


    ¡°I hope so, too. You know how Mrs. Andrew feels about things like this. Oh my God, I¡¯m terrified.¡±


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t havee in today. I texted you earlier, telling you to stay at home because I¡¯d spotted the paparazzi cluttering outside the building some hours ago. You never replied and¡­.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t look at my phone this morning, Sally. I¡¯m sorry for missing the text message.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all right. How are things going on with you? I saw the news, and¡­ damn, it¡¯s bad, girl. Are the usations true? Or was it just a coincidence?¡± She asked, and I nodded shakily.


    ¡°I¡¯m at a loss for words, Sally. I¡¯mpletely perplexed, and¡­ The restaurant is buzzing with questions, right?¡±


    ¡°It is, girl. If you went to the counter now, our coworkers would bombard you with their questions. They¡¯ve been talking about you and your rich hot boyfriend all morning and want to know if you¡¯re still together.¡±


    ¡°How about Mrs. Andrews?¡± I asked when she finished, my chest thumping as I waited for her reply, but the door to the storeroom burst open before she could say a word.


    My heart plummeted to the floor when I saw who was by the entrance.


    It was Mrs. Andrew, and she stood there with her arms folded, nked by two waitresses.


    I gulped hard, noting the stern expression on her face and the way her jaw gritted, indicating that she was seriously thinking about something, and whatever it was, it wouldn¡¯t bode well for me or whoever was on the receiving end.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for you, Renee. When did you get here?¡± She broke the tense silence between us, and I opened my mouth to respond-to say something-but my throat became dry.


    When I didn¡¯t reply immediately, she continued, ¡°I¡¯m sure you must have seen themotion outside, and you know how bad that is for the restaurant?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ yes¡­ I am aware.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for that, and I-¡± I began to say something, but she interrupted me.


    ¡°Sally, take the waitresses with you back to the counter.¡± She said sharply.


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± Sally quickly responded, giving me a worried look before hurrying away with the other two women.


    Now that it was just the two of us in the storeroom, I was filled with dread as I waited for her to say something.


    ¡°I can¡¯t have this happening at the restaurant, Renee.¡±


    ¡°I know, ma¡¯am, and I¡¯m truly sorry. I never intended for it to be this way and-¡±


    ¡°Stop apologizing. What¡¯s done is done. However, it must not happen again, and you must guarantee this!¡± She snapped, and her harsh tone had me trembling. ¡°About that, I¡¯ve decided to relieve you of your responsibilities. You have been suspended until further notice. Is that understood?¡±


    My jaw dropped in surprise, and I stared at her nkly, trying to process what she¡¯d said.


    I was stunned-beyond speechless and rooted to the spot. My mind reeled as I absorbed the sordid news that I was now jobless.


    She must have noticed the look on my face and decided to pity me because the stern look on her features softened.


    Letting out a huge breath, the corners of her wrinkled eyes shifting, she added, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯m doing this to protect the reputation of this business. A scandal involving one of my employees is never good, and this is the first time. As I said, this is a suspension, not an indefinite job termination. You¡¯ve been a great asset to this restaurant, and I know I shouldn¡¯t just let you go like that. ept this for now, and I¡¯ll personally contact you once themotion is over. In the meantime, if you could juste with me to my office, we can review your suspension letter.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± I breathed out and watched her turn around and exit the storeroom, clearly expecting me to follow. But I couldn¡¯t move an inch. At least not yet.


    I was still trying to process it all.


    She¡¯d stated that this was not a permanent dismissal and would call me back when it was over. Wasn¡¯t that supposed to be a relief? I questioned myself internally, but there was no relief at the time.


    When would it all be over? Even if it did, nothing would ever be the same again. And that?¡­ That was my greatest fear.


    My entire life was crumbling before me, and nothing could stop it.


    If anything, this was just the beginning of the bad things that would happen to me. I could feel it, and my gut instinct was always right.


    To think everything happening was because of a foolish mistake and decision I¡¯d made one fateful night in Miami.


    ¡®Foolish mistake? Girl, you still love him and¡­.¡¯ My subconscious started to say, but I shook my head frantically, blocking every unnecessary piece of advice.


    Also, I kept reminding myself that I was doomed, whether I liked it or not, and this scared me to death.

 Plan A Or B?

    ROBERT


    ¡°No fucking way!¡± I eximed loudly. ¡°This has to be the dumbest joke in history! This cannot be true. Tell me this is a lie. Just some ploy by the media to sell a story, right? I mean, who made this up?¡± I spat, returning my gaze to my secretary, and flinging the magazine on the floor.


    ¡°We can¡¯t say, Mr. rke, but we know the media will do anything for money. Aside from that, the allegations look too good to be true, and they have photos to back it up.¡± Mr. Patrick, mywyer, chimed in, his face concerned as he looked at me from his chair across the office desk.


    God, this was worse than I¡¯d imagined. I closed my eyes and sighed deeply, thinking about the headline I¡¯d just read.


    ¡®SCANDAL OF THE YEAR OR NOT? POPULAR BILLIONAIRE, ROBERT CLARKE, CAUGHT IN A ROMANTIC RUSE WITH HIS GIRLFRIEND & SON.¡¯


    The article described and fabricated theories about Dn being Renee¡¯s ex. They even had photos to prove it. My mind reyed the article¡¯s content as the words shed before my eyes, and my jaw gritted in anger and shame.


    That¡¯s when it struck me. This was true.


    I remembered Renee had been surprised to see Dn at the party that night.


    I vividly recalled what she¡¯d said and how she¡¯d apologized to him before leaving.


    Dn was Renee¡¯s ex.


    He was the jerk who hurt her and weakened her already fragile heart. The bastard who¡¯d cheated on her. I¡¯d wanted to track him down and issue a warning after Renee told me he was still trying to contact her, possibly for a reconciliation. And now the pieces were finallying together.


    Dammit! My head spun as I tried to make sense of everything.


    My face was white and ashen, like a sheet of paper. I felt lightheaded and nauseous.


    I probably appeared even messier than I felt. With bags under my eyes, wild and messy hair, and working on little sleep, I knew I looked miserable.


    I couldn¡¯t eat because my stomach hurt, so I drank whiskey all day Sunday, Monday, and today.


    I¡¯m sure my body was rebelling against me, but I didn¡¯t give a damn.


    ¡°Howe no one told me about this? Why am I just seeing this?¡± I asked, shaking my head.


    ¡°It was all over the news yesterday, Mr. rke. I dashed over here when you summoned me, thinking you¡¯d called because of it. Apparently, my intuition was incorrect.¡± Mr. Patrick shrugged his shoulders.


    ¡°I called you because I knew the media would be all over what happened at the party. I¡¯ve barely looked at my phone or watched TV because I was afraid of what I¡¯d find.¡± I confessed, running my hand through my unkempt hair. ¡°Didn¡¯t think I¡¯d see this and¡­ fuck!¡±


    My voice cracked in disbelief and disgust, and I shook my head.


    ¡°Goddammit, I feel like a fucking moron! I¡¯d stood still and let Amanda trample all over me. I¡¯m such a coward, and I only have myself to me!¡±


    ¡°Mr. rke, you must calm down and-¡± Mr. Patrick began, only for me to cut him off.


    ¡°How can I rx? Don¡¯t give me that shit, man. Knowing my reputation will suffer because of all this doesn¡¯t cut it. What about Renee? She only followed me to a party where we were supposed to have the time of our lives. But what did she get? Outright humiliation, and now I¡¯ve learned that Dn, my son, was, in fact, her ex-boyfriend. Do you have any idea how that sounds? Fuck! This only exacerbates the situation!¡± I yelled, pacing agitatedly, my hands outstretched in frustration.


    ¡°Please, Mr. rke.¡±


    ¡°For Christ¡¯s sake, Mr. Patrick. I can¡¯t keep my cool. I read some of that article, and they glorify and praise my sexual prowess while slut shaming Renee. How revolting. I¡¯ve failed miserably as a lover. I should¡¯ve been more protective of my woman. How pathetic. I mean, what sort of a man am I?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m at a loss for words, Mr. rke. However, we must act quickly. The media will continue to fabricate stories, and once this gets out of hand, it won¡¯t be easy to maintain the public image you¡¯ve built for yourself. I don¡¯t want to talk about Miss Renee. She¡¯s already bearing the harsh brunt of this scandal, as you¡¯ve said. Have you spoken to her yet?¡±


    ¡°She hasn¡¯t returned my calls or texts since Saturday night.¡± I stated tly.


    ¡°Of course¡­¡± Mr. Patrick muttered and added, ¡°So what are we going to do now?¡±


    ¡°We have to salvage this situation. Those articles need to be taken down. And as quickly as possible.¡± I gritted my teeth.


    ¡°You are correct, Sir. This, however, will not be so simple. We¡¯re talking about fortified media outlets here. A lot of money will be involved. I suggested earlier that we act quickly, but I had another idea as well.¡±


    ¡°And what¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Keep your head down for now, and let the news wash over. Because it will. Once the media gets wind of another juicy story, they¡¯ll drop this, and it¡¯ll be history. You can see¡­.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t fucking see shit when this is causing harm not just to me alone but to Renee. I can¡¯t imagine how she¡¯s dealing with the news and the nder.¡±


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t give a fuck, Mr. Patrick.¡± I cut in, my chest heaving with rage. ¡°I¡¯m going to sue every media outlet that refuses to remove published articles about Renee and me. Any motherfucker who does something shady will be sued for defamation and libel, and I¡¯m willing to go to court. Money is not an issue. It¡¯s never a problem, do you hear me?¡± I yelled, mming the seat¡¯s armrest close to me.


    Giving me a nod, he cleared his throat before saying, ¡°Very well then. I¡¯ll do my best.¡±


    ¡°Good. Do whatever it takes. Anything at all. I screwed up, and Renee¡¯s paying the price. You have no idea how much that hurts me.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll do everything I can. Rest assured.¡±


    I took a deep breath and looked to my side, where my secretary stood patiently.


    She¡¯d remained rooted to her spot since she¡¯d entered-intent on showing me the drastic article-and now she was observing me, an air of worry and concern etched across her face. For reasons unbeknownst to me, the look of pity on her face irritated me to no end.


    However, I couldn¡¯t channel my anger toward her, so instead, with a sly smile, I said curtly, ¡°Cancel all my appointments for the day.¡±


    ¡°Sir?¡±


    ¡°Cancel my appointments for the day, miss. Or for the week because I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be in the best mental state to deal with them.¡±


    ¡°But, Sir, there¡¯s someone important who¡­¡± She started to say something but stopped when she saw the warning re I shot her way.


    ¡°All right, Sir. Noted.¡± She nodded with a grimace and turned to leave without further ado.


    The office door gently closed behind her. I turned to face mywyer, and, raising a finger in apology, I sharply picked up my cell phone and dialed Amanda¡¯s number.


    I put the damned device on the loudspeaker and listened as the call went through, ringing nonstop, but she didn¡¯t pick up.


    Since Saturday night, she¡¯d abruptly stopped answering my calls and responding to my messages.


    Her silence was unsettling for someone who had caused me so much strife and pain, and I began to imagine whatever she was nning.


    These articles¡­ I knew she was the mastermind behind them. She¡¯d discovered Dn¡¯s rtionship with Renee and harassed Dn into selling the story. Of course, it was for money, and I was only nowing to terms with this.


    She hated Renee so much, and what better way to ruin our rtionship than this?This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I hollered and threw my phone on the desk for the umpteenth time.


    ¡°Oh, Amanda, I¡¯m so going to fucking deal with you.¡± I murmured darkly under my breath and looked up to see Mr. Patrick getting up from his seat.


    ¡°I should be leaving now, Mr. rke.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I suppose. I have somewhere I need to be. Might run along and see to it.¡±


    ¡°Very well. What about n A? You were on to something before your secretary arrived with that article. Are you still going ahead with that?¡± Mr. Patrick asked, and eyebrows creasing I thought about what he asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m still thinking about it and I¡¯ll let you know if I decide to go ahead with it. My public rtions team will handle it too.¡±


    ¡°Okay, then. I¡¯ll keep you updated on my progress starting tomorrow.¡± He said dismissively, then turned on his heels and exited the office after we exchanged farewell pleasantries.


    As soon as I was left alone, my thoughts returned to Renee, and the familiar stab of pain coursing through my chest at the mere thought of losing her forever hit me again.


    I missed her. I missed being able to wrap my arms around her. I missed smelling her persimmon skin and trailing kisses down her throat. Fuck! I missed my woman!


    And with this constant ache in my chest, I grabbed my cell phone and briefcase and rushed out of the office with one destination in mind.


    I was done giving Renee space.


    If she refused to answer my calls or respond to my texts, then I would confront her in person. The consequences be damned!

 Threats

    ROBERT


    After deliberating for an hour, I parked my car in front of the restaurant where Renee worked, ready to talk to her.


    My stomach flipped, and before I could change my mind or even consider whether this was a good idea, my hands instinctively went to the door handle and pushed it open.


    As I stepped out of the vehicle, a gust of wind hit me square in the face.


    The air was crisp and cold, biting at my exposed skin and forcing itself painfully into my lungs.


    The sky had suddenly turned dark gray, and the air was chilly, making me a little nervous as I approached the building.


    I nced at my wristwatch and saw that it was already four in the afternoon-two hours before she finished her shift if I recall correctly-and I quickened my pace.


    I looked inside the restaurant through the ss windows, hoping to see Renee, but there was no sign of her.


    As I approached the front door, I took deep breaths and tried to convince myself that she was probably somewhere else in the building. But a nagging feeling in the back of my mind told me otherwise.


    Something was wrong. I had a strong gut feeling. I could tell, but I couldn¡¯t exin why. Or perhaps I could?


    When I first arrived, I¡¯d expected to see swarms of paparazzi hovering like vultures.


    But they weren¡¯t there. There were no news vans, no photographers with cameras, and no reporters with microphones held high at the scene. It seemed strange and suspicious.


    Why? Because given the brewing scandal, it was only logical that Renee would be their target.


    They were looking for more juicy stories, and Renee worked at a popr restaurant, which made her more vulnerable to their attacks. They could track her down, station their cameras and wait until she got off work before osting her.


    It¡¯d only make sense. And as I thought about it, I got angry.


    I was enraged by how much power these motherfuckers had over my and Renee¡¯s rtionship.


    I was angry at the damage it could do to our future.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I muttered incoherently as I came to a halt in front of the restaurant. Without hesitation, I grabbed the handle and pushed it open.


    A bell rang, signaling my entrance, and the door opened further. I rushed in, my eyes darting around.


    The small restaurant was sparsely popted, with only a few customers seated at the tables.


    The patrons weren¡¯t paying attention when I walked in. Instead, they were preupied with their phones, appearing bored while eating.


    However, I couldn¡¯t say the same for the waitpersons because they stared at me with wide eyes, surprise, and recognition shing across their faces.


    Their faces paled, and a sudden hush fell over the building.


    Their expressions made me uneasy, and I couldn¡¯t stop the shiver running up my spine.


    I¡¯d sensed something was wrong the moment I¡¯d gotten out of my car, but this was a whole new level of unnerving.


    With my feet moving toward the counter, I overheard one of the waitpersons muttering curse words under her breath before my voice echoed through the building. Several heads turned in my direction but I didn¡¯t care.


    ¡°Where is Renee?¡± I demanded, my voice rough and sharp despite my attempts to sound moreposed.


    ¡°Good day, Sir. I¡­¡± One of the waitpersons began to stammer, but she was interrupted by another waitress who stepped forward.


    I recognized the woman right away. Sally. Renee¡¯s friend.


    ¡°Mr. rke. Good morning.¡± She began with a clipped and professional tone, but a slight hint of fear on her features immediately put me on edge.


    ¡°Where is Renee?¡± I repeated, impatient.


    She paused for a split second, debating whether to speak up.


    Then, as if making a decision, she straightened up and said, ¡°Renee was fired yesterday morning, Mr. rke.¡±


    ¡°Wait, what are you talking about?¡± I asked in disbelief and Sally looked away, with guilt on her face.


    ¡°Are you serious? Did she put you guys up to this?¡± I asked, turning to face the other waitresses, ¡°I know she doesn¡¯t want to see me, and if she¡¯s hiding somewhere, please tell me. Surely what you said isn¡¯t right.¡±


    There was a tense pause as I waited for someone to contradict my ims, but no one said anything.


    Instead, Sally stepped toward me and dropped a bombshell that had me staggering.


    ¡°What I told you is the truth, Mr. rke. Our boss called a meeting and announced her dismissal. With all the reports about the scandal¡­¡± She paused, struggling to finish, but finally continued with a sigh. ¡°The scandal involving Renee is hurting the restaurant¡¯s image. The paparazzi camped outside the building yesterday morning, harassing the staff and customers, demanding interviews, and taking pictures without permission. We were barely scraping by, and when Renee came in, things went from bad to worse. I won¡¯t go into too much detail, but I¡¯m sure you understand.¡±


    ¡°This is bullshit.¡± I hissed angrily. My jaw clenched as rage coursed through my body.


    ¡°I apologize, Mr. rke, but-¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s your boss?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ she¡¯s¡­ she¡¯s¡­¡± Sally stuttered, but her words fell on deaf ears because I was already marching toward a door with the words ¡®STAFF ONLY¡¯ written above it.


    ¡°Mr. rke, you shouldn¡¯t go in there.¡±


    I could hear Sally¡¯s pleas as she hurried behind me, but I didn¡¯t slow down.


    I ignored her and kept walking, my footsteps echoing off the walls and heart pounding in my chest with anxiety.


    Pushing open arge set of sliding doors that led to a small hallway, I continued onwards, only stopping when I got to the manager¡¯s office.


    The door was slightly ajar-fortunately for me-and upon entering, I saw the manager seated behind a massive desk, with a tablet on top of the surface and a phone against her ear.


    Her gaze shot up sharply when she realized someone had entered the office, and itnded on me.


    As soon as we made eye contact, her expression shifted from surprise to apprehension.


    She stared at me, speechless, as she tried to make sense of my presence.


    ¡°Mr. rke.¡± She stammered, quickly rising from her chair.


    ¡°Did you fire Renee? Tell me you didn¡¯t do that!¡± I roared, mming my palm hard onto the office desk, causing it to shake violently.


    She flinched, surprised by my outburst of rage. I couldn¡¯t care less.


    ¡°Mr. rke, please calm down. I¡¯ll exin.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll exin what? That you fired my woman without informing me?¡±This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t inform you, Mr. rke, but I made the decision in haste. I had no choice for the sake of the restaurant¡¯s reputation.¡±


    ¡°You made a hasty decision. But it¡¯s been over twenty-four hours since you fired her, and you didn¡¯t think to tell me? I assumed we were friends, Mrs. Andrew. Despite all my favors, this is how you repay me, huh?¡±


    ¡°Calm down, Mr. rke, and listen to my reasons.¡±


    ¡°You mean your selfish reasons?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I couldn¡¯t do anything else at the moment. Also, I didn¡¯t fire her permanently. I only suspended her, and she would¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, Mrs. Andrew, you¡¯ll pay for this.¡± I interjected with a growl, and she gasped, her hands flying to her mouth.


    ¡°Mr. rke, I sincerely apologize.¡±


    ¡°Save your apologies forter because you¡¯ll regret ever doing this by the time I¡¯m done with you. I guarantee it.¡±


    Her eyes widened at my threat.


    I turned on my heel and marched out of her office before she could say anything and pushing past the bemused waitpersons gathered around, I left the restaurant.


    As I walked to where I¡¯d parked my car, I whipped out my cell phone from my pocket and dialed Renee¡¯s number for the umpteenth time since Saturday night.


    There was no response. Again. But I didn¡¯t give up and dialed the number once more.


    She still didn¡¯t answer, and the calls went straight to voicemail. I shoved my phone back into my pocket, sighing with exasperation.


    Taking out my keys and stepping into my car, I turned on the ignition and drove away with onest destination in mind.


    Renee¡¯s apartment.

 The Confrontation

    RENEE


    ¡°It¡¯d be in your best interests if you left, Robert. She isn¡¯t interested in seeing you.¡±


    I pressed my ear to the bedroom door, my chest tightening as Nicole and Robert¡¯s spat grew louder with each word.


    The argument had begun a few minutes ago when Robert arrived and, luckily for me, Nicole answered the door.


    He¡¯d demanded to see me, wanting to talk, and she¡¯d tly refused.


    Then he¡¯d tried to exin that he was here to apologize and make amends, but Nicole wasn¡¯t budging.


    She was hurt and angry on my behalf, and rightfully so.


    ¡°I won¡¯t. I¡¯m not leaving until Renee tells me she doesn¡¯t want to see me herself.¡± Robert spoke up, his voice firm, persistent, and determined.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to disappoint you, but she won¡¯t. Leave, Robert. I¡¯m doing my best not to be impolite here.¡±


    ¡°Nicole, please stop making this so difficult.¡± He begged, sounding so desperate that my heart ached for a split second.


    Nicole made a noise of disgust. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t make this difficult. Says the man who¡¯s made my best friend¡¯s life a living hell. After all the humiliation she¡¯s endured and the damage this scandal has caused, you dare to say I¡¯m making this hard. You should be ashamed of yourself!¡±


    ¡°God, Nicole! I know I messed up. Worse than I could¡¯ve imagined. If I could turn back the hands of time, I would. But I can¡¯t. So, please¡­¡± His voice broke, and he pleaded, ¡°Let me see her.¡±


    My heart twisted painfully hearing how defeated and broken he sounded. My eyes started to burn, and I blinked away tears.


    I should stop listening. If I knew what was good for me, I¡¯d have dragged my shaky feet back to bed, grabbed my AirPods, and blocked their voices, hoping Robert would heed Nicole¡¯s warnings and leave.


    But I didn¡¯t move an inch. I remained rooted to the spot, my lips quivering and tears welling up at the sides of my eyes.


    ¡°All I want to do is see her. I want to stroke her strawberry blonde hair and tell her everything will be fine. I haven¡¯t seen or spoken to her since Saturday night, and it¡¯s driving me crazy. I¡¯m not sleeping. I can¡¯t eat. I can¡¯t think clearly. This¡­ it¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s unbearable for me. You might not believe me when I say I¡¯ve been sobbing. Nicole, please just let me see my girl. Please help me.¡±


    Robert¡¯s words shed through my heart like shards of ss, and the tears welling up in my eyes fell silently down my cheeks.


    It was excruciating. This pain. It was unbearable, and it felt like a million tiny needles dug into my heart and ripped it apart.


    ¡°No! No!¡± I mumbled, my voice cracking as I began wiping my tear-stained face with shaky hands.


    This couldn¡¯t go on forever. I needed to face him, so I stepped forward, hand on the doorknob, as if on instinct.


    ¡®Renee, what do you think you¡¯re doing?¡¯ The voice in my head asked. ¡®Have you forgotten the humiliation? The fact that you lost your job yesterday because of him. Or should I remind you that Dn, your ex-boyfriend, is his son? Think, youngdy. There will be no turning back once you step out that door!¡¯ The voice warned me, and I stumbled slightly, my hands leaving the knob.


    It was so tempting. I desperately wanted to listen to the voice in my head and walk away from the door. Ignore Robert¡¯s heartbreaking pleas and stay in the room.


    But what would happen then? If I don¡¯t talk to him now and give him a piece of my mind, when will I? When would I find the strength and courage to do it?


    I ignored my inner voice and stepped toward the door with all these questions weighing heavy on my chest.


    My hand reaching out of its own ord, I grabbed the doorknob. Turning it swiftly, I flung it open and stumbled into the tiny living room.


    Immediately, Robert¡¯s tall, muscr frame flooded my sight line.


    His face was flushed red from anger or frustration-I wasn¡¯t sure which- and he appearedpletely out of breath, with his hands sped together.


    His jaw dropped open when his gaze locked on mine, and he uttered a single word, his voice barely audible. ¡°Renee¡­¡±


    ¡°Renee!¡± Nicole gasped, turning to stare at me. ¡°What are you doing? I thought we agreed you¡¯d stay in the room?¡±


    I opened my mouth to speak but found myself speechless. Instead, I just stared at Robert, taking in his features.


    He looked¡­ different. With messy hair and dark circles under his eyes, he looked like he hadn¡¯t slept in days.


    He was growing rough stubble on his face, which only served to emphasize how pale and gaunt he appeared.


    And what about his clothes? His suit was rumpled and creased, and his tie was loose around his neck and hanging limply over his corbone.


    Robert looked like a mess. This powerful and captivating man I¡¯d fallen in love with had been reduced to aplete wreck. For a split second, I refused to believe what I was seeing. But it was true. So, fucking true.


    He was going through a lot, just like me, and the realization made my chest tighten irreversibly, but not in pity.


    ¡°Renee.¡± He called out, this time louder, and it jolted me out of my assessing trance.


    Suddenly a wave of rage surged through me, and I crossed the room, walking straight to him. But before I could reach him, Nicole blocked my path, eyeing me with concern.


    ¡°Renee. Go back. I will handle this. You don¡¯t have to do or say a thing against your will. Don¡¯t give him that satisfaction.¡± Her gentle voice was soft and understanding, and for a split second, I felt like crying again.


    ¡°No, Nicole. I need to speak with him. This is something I must do. I¡­I-¡± I stuttered, and she cut in before I could finish. ¡°Renee, let me take care of this. Please.¡±


    For a minute, I hesitated, torn between giving in to Nicole or staying true to myself and going through with this.


    Thetter won. Squaring my shoulders, I looked at my best friend and said, albeit defiantly, ¡°I¡¯ll be fine. I can handle this. Give us some privacy, please.¡±


    The look on her face told me she didn¡¯t like my decision. But she didn¡¯t argue and stepped aside with a resigned sigh.


    She gave me a small, sad smile as she lightly squeezed my shoulder. ¡°You got this.¡± She whispered. With thatst encouragement, she left the room.


    I whipped my face toward Robert when the door behind me clicked shut, looking directly into his once bright blue eyes. They now stared at me, darkened into an icy stormy gray, full of emotions I couldn¡¯t put a name to.


    Was it shame? Pain? Fear? Regret? Well, fuck him! Fuck whatever he was feeling! He deserved to be miserable after all the shit he put me through in just three days and still counting.


    ¡°Renee. I missed you so much.¡± He breathed out, saying his first words since Nicole left, breaking the icy silence brewing between us.


    His lips quivered, and I could see tears pool at the corner of his eyes. ¡°I finally see you after Saturday, and it feels like a dream. I don¡¯t deserve it, I know. I¡¯m not worthy of your presence¡­.¡± He trailed off, his voice hoarse as he took a tentative step toward me.


    The pain in his voice¡­ God, I could hear it clear as day. I felt it vibrating through my bones, and it was too much.


    It made me want to forget everything that¡¯d happened and pull him into a hug. Breathe in his scent, which I craved, and tell him never to leave me again. Tell him that I adored him more than anything else in the world. Tell him that I¡¯d forgive him. Tell him I was ready to forget everything and be by his side, regardless of what the media thought about our rtionship.


    ¡°No, no¡­.¡± I muttered to myself, eyes closing as I tried to fight the tears threatening to fall in torrents.


    A whimper escaped my throat and as my eyes remained tightly shut, shbacks assaulted me.


    They didn¡¯t revolve around our happy times. Instead, it was memories of when Robert had caused me pain.


    From our first spat on the yacht, to the fateful night I discovered he was married and my entire world hade crashing down. Then the revtion that Dn was his son. And the paparazzi too slut shaming, and calling me a gold digger, amongst other vile things.


    ¡°Dammit!¡± I screeched and my eyes shot open.


    He was in front of me. Robert stood before me.


    I could practically inhale the masculine fragrance emanatinged from him and I gasped as I realized how close we were.


    He slowly reached out to touch me, fingertips brushing softly along my cheek. A low moan slipped through his lips, and my heart rate picked up its pace.


    This shouldn¡¯t be happening. It wasn¡¯t right, but I didn¡¯t dare move an inch, my body betraying me.


    ¡°God, Renee¡­¡± He groaned, his fingers wiping at the tears falling down my face. ¡°Seeing you in this broken state. Seeing you crying. It¡¯s killing me. Fuck, I¡¯ll never forgive myself for causing you this pain. But I¡¯m sorry. So, so sorry¡­.¡±


    When I said nothing, he continued, ¡°I¡¯m dying inside. Stop crying. These tears¡­they¡¯re killing me. I¡­ I can¡¯t fucking take it. Renee, please.¡± He pled, still stroking my cheeks with shaky hands.


    The atmosphere was suffocating-thick, heavy, and tense. Like a dark cloud hanging over us, pressing down and crushing us.


    Robert broke the silence again. ¡°Please, baby girl, say something.¡±


    Baby girl? How lovely.


    He thought he could still use endearments to make me fold. Sweet words that¡¯d cause butterflies to erupt in my belly and make my knees curl. Well, not anymore. And I was about to show him that.


    I took a step back, and his hands on my face dropped. He frowned, letting out a pained hiss that I heard clearly.


    ¡°Why?¡± I blurted out the one-word question, my lips quivering.


    His brow furrowed in question, and hesitantly he added, ¡°What are you asking me?¡±


    Fists clenched, I decided to borate.


    My tone remained harsh and emotionless, and not allowing a single ounce of weakness to leak through, I asked. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you talk to me?¡±Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand, Renee. Are you saying I didn¡¯t talk to you? For fuck¡¯s sake, I¡¯m trying to talk to you right now and have been for a few days. I¡¯ve called, texted, and left voicemails, but-¡±


    ¡°Oh, shut it!¡± I yelled angrily, interrupting him.


    He blinked, taken aback by my sudden outburst. The air was thick with tension, the silence heavy, and a rush of wind blew my hair wildly around, making the curtains flutter loudly too.


    Robert looked at me with wide, imploring eyes, waiting for me to continue, which I did, though my resolve was weaker.


    The rugged exterior I¡¯d put up was eroding, and I now felt frail. Exhausted. Vulnerable. I just wanted to curl up in a ball and cry because I was tired. But, most importantly, I needed to get away from this man-this I finally realized.


    I wanted him gone. I wanted this nightmare to end and for me to be alone at home where nothing and no one could ever hurt me again. Not the press. Not Robert. Not Dn.


    This reconciliation he so desired, he wasn¡¯t going to get.


    ¡°You say you don¡¯t understand what I¡¯m saying or what I¡¯m asking, but you do!¡± I began with a sniff, my voice trembling. ¡°You absolutely do!¡±


    ¡°Renee-¡±


    ¡°How do I begin to exin that I went from being so in love and happy for the first time in months after a heart-shattering breakup to discovering that the man I unashamedly fell for in the blink of an eye was married and had a son. This son, who happened to be my ex-boyfriend!¡±


    He winced, his face filled with guilt and misery and his shoulders sagged in defeat.


    ¡°I pleaded with you, Robert. I asked you over and over again. I begged you to speak to me. But you didn¡¯t. You didn¡¯t trust me.¡±


    ¡°I was¡­ I¡­¡± He stammered, his hands clenched at his sides, his head bowed in defeat.


    ¡°You was what?¡±


    ¡°I was waiting for the right time, dammit!


    ¡°Oh really?¡± I scoffed incredulously. ¡°Then maybe your wife found the right time? She did an excellent job revealing everything and opening my eyes to the truth. She-¡±


    ¡°Amanda is not my wife!¡± He cut in with a hiss. ¡°She¡¯s my ex-wife. We¡¯ve been separated for over twenty-three years. I divorced her when I caught her cheating. Cheating on our marital bed with my best friend while she was pregnant with our first child. With Dn!¡± Robert punctuated hisst sentence, pausing with every word and when he finished his outburst, he let out a loud sigh.


    I gasped in horror.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± He cursed and continued, ¡°I¡¯ve gotten so many restraining orders against her, but they don¡¯t work. She keepsing back into my life in ways I least expect, and every time she does something crazy and stupid.¡±


    He scoffed. ¡°You know, Dn is just like his mother. Every time I think about what he did to you and how simr our situations are, it makes me want to throw up.¡±


    I stood dumbfounded, looking at him speechless while his words hit me hard.


    Amanda had cheated on him in their marital bed, the same way Dn had cheated on me in our bed in our shared apartment. How cruel.


    ¡°Is¡­ is Dn even your son?¡± I asked, a lump forming in my throat. ¡°I mean¡­ after what happened between you and your ex-¡±


    ¡°He is, indeed. Unfortunately for me.¡± Robert cut in, and his face contorted in pain. ¡°After the incident, I had a DNA test done. A part of me wanted the results toe out negative, but well¡­.¡±


    ¡°Fuck! Fuck! You¡¯re admitting it now after I¡¯ve read all the garbage in the news and everything¡­ everything is bing more real now, and¡­¡± I paused as a fresh new tear streamed down my cheek.


    ¡°Renee, please. Just¡­¡± He trailed off, his hands stretched as if reaching for me, but I staggered backward.


    ¡°I had to learn about all this in the most horrible way, which hurts. If you¡¯d told me that you¡¯d been married and had a son, maybe things would¡¯ve been different. I would¡¯ve¡­.¡± A whimper escaped my lips as the tears streaming down my cheeks increased, but I didn¡¯t try to wipe or stop them.


    ¡°What hurts the most, Robert was that you kept everything from me despite my constant pleading. Now I¡¯m wondering if you ever truly loved me. Because trusting me with your deepest secrets wouldn¡¯t have been so difficult if you had.¡±


    ¡°No, Renee. Never doubt my feelings for you. Don¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°Oh really?¡±


    ¡°I beg you, please. I love you, and I do trust you. Stop making up theories in your head and¡­¡±


    ¡°And what? This is fucking bullshit! Remember how you didn¡¯t defend me when your ex-wife trashed and insulted me in public? You just stood there doing nothing! Do you still have feelings for her? You didn¡¯t refute her ims because you didnt want to tarnish reputation, right?¡±


    ¡°Oh my God, Renee. Don¡¯t say things like that. You¡¯re the only person who matters to me. The only woman I love.¡±


    ¡°You may say that to me with words. But your actions say otherwise.¡± I scoffed.


    ¡°For God¡¯s sake, stop making things difficult. Allow me to exin.¡±


    ¡°Exin what? And what am I making difficult?¡± I yelled half-heartedly. ¡°For fuck¡¯s sake, I¡¯m just telling the truth! The harsh truth! Godammit! I regret ever speaking to you.¡±


    ¡°Renee. No, no, no¡­¡± Robert muttered, with a pain-stricken look, his hand reaching toward me but stopping short before making contact.


    My body quivered, and I backed away from him as more tears ran uncontrobly down my face, blurring my vision.


    ¡°I¡¯m just tired of all this. I¡¯m still processing it. I had an affair with both father and son, and now¡­ fuck! I can¡¯t take it any longer, and yes, I¡¯m a slut. A whore. Just like the fucking newspapers say. They¡¯ve ruined my reputation and the respectable image I¡¯ve worked so hard to build. I don¡¯t want you around me any more!.¡±


    ¡°Stop saying these things, Renee. Please stop it.¡± Robert begged, but I paid no attention.


    ¡°I¡¯mpletely useless. With absolutely nothing to offer. I¡¯ve never felt more like a failure in my entire life.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not a failure. Why are you saying that?¡± He asked, and he went down on his knees before I could respond.


    ¡°What are you¡­?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not concerned with what the media says. I¡¯m already working to reduce the hearsay. I¡¯m doing everything I can. I swear.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not about swearing, Robert.¡±


    ¡°I know, but still¡­ I sincerely apologize for everything I¡¯ve done. For not talking to you. For not telling you about my past and keeping things hidden. The thing with Dn, I¡¯ll fix it, don¡¯t worry. Just forgive me. Please. I¡¯m truly sorry, and¡­¡±


    ¡°Sorry won¡¯t fix anything, Robert. Can¡¯t you see that!¡± I half yelled while wiping the tears from my face with the back of my hands. ¡°I want you to do something for me. There¡¯s just one thing you can do for me now.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± He quickly replied, eyes perking up. ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever you want. Just tell me.¡±


    ¡°Leave!¡± I demanded softly, my voice breaking as a sob threatened to escape. ¡°Leave now.¡±


    ¡°What¡­?¡± His face twisted in confusion and disbelief. ¡°No, Renee. Don¡¯t push me away.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t stand having you around me right now. Seeing you breaks my heart and triggers painful memories. I¡­¡± I trailed off as my voice faded into a whisper.


    Dragging my gaze away from him, I walked to the door, intent on showing him the way out. I couldn¡¯t bear to see the pain in his eyes.


    ¡°Just leave.¡± I muttered softly as I swung open the door and stood by the side, waiting for him to get up andply with my request.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do this, Renee.¡±


    ¡°Just fucking get up and use the door, will you?¡± I said again, sniffing back angry tears. Goddamn.


    After what seemed like an eternity, he slowly hauled himself off the floor. As he began to walk toward me, his eyes hollow and face ashen white, my heart constricted yet again.


    He stopped in front of  me and his  mouth moved silently in a wordless plea.


    His eyes were glued to mine. ¡°You¡¯re asking me to leave, Renee. But how does this affect our rtionship? Are we done?¡±


    ¡®Are we done? How did this affect our rtionship?¡¯ I repeated his questions in my head and told myself we no longer had a rtionship.


    It all ended the night of the masked ball party when I discovered the horrifying truth about Robert and myself. The most horrible truth in all my twenty-three years of existence.


    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m sorry, but we no longer have a rtionship.¡± My breath shook as I stammered out my response.


    Robert averted his gaze, his lips trembling. I saw tears rolling down his cheek for a split second, but then he was furiously wiping at his face with the back of his palm.


    He was in a lot of pain. His whole body shook, and I couldn¡¯t bear to think of what was running through his mind.


    It hurt me to see him like this. But this was for the best.


    I was doing the right thing and I was going to stick to my word. Even though I knew it was killing me deep inside.


    ¡°So this is it?¡± He asked, his voice faint, his gaze averted.


    ¡°Yes. I suppose so.¡±


    ¡°Do you think, after everything I¡¯ve done, I¡¯ll ept that this rtionship is over? After everything I¡¯ve given up? After falling helplessly in love with you and giving you my all? You¡¯ve broken the core of my soul and made me feel things I never thought I¡¯d feel again¡­.¡±


    ¡°Robert, leave. Please.¡± I begged, but he ignored me, continuing without stopping, his words sounding like poison. Bittersweet poison.


    ¡°You must be delusional if you think I¡¯ll let you go after swearing you¡¯re my forever and the bane of my existence.¡± He growled, whipping his face toward me and giving me a dark look that had me shivering.


    ¡°I¡¯m not a man who backs down easily, Renee. You, of all people, should know that. I won¡¯t ept no from you. We¡¯re not done yet. This isn¡¯t the end!¡±


    ¡°Yes, it is!¡± I screamed at the top of my lungs, eyes closed in despair and when I opened them, he was already gone.


    He wasn¡¯t in front of me anymore. He was no longer in sight.


    Just gone. Like he¡¯d never been here in the first ce. And now I was alone¡­


    ¡°Renee¡­¡±


    I turned to see Nicole approaching me as the bedroom door creaked open.


    ¡°What have I done?¡±


    ¡°You did what was right.¡±


    ¡°Did I? I¡­ I told him we were done, but he refused to ept it. Nicole, I said some horrible things. Still he¡­¡± I choked up, my eyes watering and my nose running.


    My throat tightened, and I couldn¡¯t speak anymore. Instead, I started to sob uncontrobly.


    ¡°Oh, sweetie,e here.¡± She urged, reaching and pulling me into a hug I desperately needed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t say anything. If you want to cry, let it all out. I¡¯m not going to stop you. I¡¯m here for you.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Nicole¡­¡± I whimpered, burying my face in her arms.


    Rocking me back and forth as we copsed to the floor, she kept rubbing circles on my back and whispering her magic words in my ear.


    ¡°Everything will be fine, Renee. Everything will be alright. I promise you.¡±

 Bar Scuffles

    ROBERT


    ¡°A refill?¡± The bartender asked as I held up my empty ss, and I curtly nodded.


    Taking a sip of the burning liquid, I grimaced at the bitter aftertaste, then returned my gaze to my phone on the bar¡¯s countertop. I sat and stared at the picture of Renee disyed on the screen.


    In this photo, she was asleep on my hotel bed, her mouth slightly open and her strawberry blonde hair messy and scattered on the sheets.


    Her longshes cast shadows across her delicate cheeks, giving her a soft and fragile appearance. Dammit, but she was so beautiful. The most gorgeous sight I¡¯d ever seen and one I¡¯d never get tired of looking at.


    Flipping through my photos, I found another picture of her. One I¡¯d taken while she was standing on the balcony of our new mansion.


    With her arms outstretched, her dress fluttering against the wind, and the fabric dancing wildly before settling back into ce. She looked so happy and at peace that, for a moment, my heart clenched.


    Her eyes were closed, but adoration and joy were written all over her face. I¡¯d done well, unknowingly capturing this beautiful moment.


    ¡°God¡­¡± I muttered as my fingers flickered through the screen, scrolling past photos of her, each more stunning than thest.


    There were so many, and each one caused me more pain than thest, bringing tears to my eyes.


    My heart hurt, and it wasn¡¯t because of the alcohol in my veins. Seeing Renee reminded me of how much I¡¯d hurt her and messed things up.


    It¡¯d been two days since I¡¯d shown up on her doorstep and demanded to see her. I couldn¡¯t stop thinking.


    As I tightly gripped the whiskey ss, I couldn¡¯t seem to rx into afortable stupor. Because no! The memories of that day were still too fresh.


    My mind kept going over everything that¡¯d happened. From her rejection to her hurtful words, which I deserved, and the look of pain in her eyes. Damn! I¡¯d hurt her so badly.


    So badly that she was willing to throw away everything we had. Everything we¡¯d built together.


    ¡°Fuck! Fuck!¡± I cursed as I chugged thest remnants of my drink, wincing at the burn in my throat.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    I was in shambles. Both literally and metaphorically.


    I couldn¡¯t eat, I couldn¡¯t sleep, and I couldn¡¯t think straight. God! I felt terrible. And the worst part was that I deserved it.


    Everything happening to my drunken depressed ass right now was entirely my fault, and I deserved each ounce of pain and suffering.


    Apart from my personal life, what about my business? Oh, I was stalling work. I¡¯d been getting dozens of reports here and there, calls and meeting appointments that I¡¯d ignored in thest few days. My stocks were plummeting drastically, but I didn¡¯t care.


    Maybe next week, I¡¯d get myself together and focus on business, but I wanted to get lost in this haze for now.


    This haze which-


    ¡°Some vodka and whiskey shots, please.¡± My head shot up. The owner of the smooth voice bedside me broke through my spiraling thoughts.


    Looking to my left, I froze. The owner of that familiar voice was my son.


    ¡°Dn.¡± I croaked as I stared at him, unable to figure out what he was doing there.


    He wasn¡¯t alone. He was with some men, most likely his friends.


    Why was he here? Of all the days I¡¯d chosen toe to this damn bar, he¡¯d shown up. What a strange coincidence. I scoffed to myself.


    ¡°Dn?¡± I called out again, this time louder, and he finally responded.


    He gasped and tilted his head. His gaze narrowed on me, and he staggered slightly, obviously in disbelief at seeing me.


    Silence fell around us, broken only by clinks and the ssh of drinks poured into sses.


    Dn stood motionless, his blue eyes fixed on me as if he was having an internal struggle with himself, and as for me¡­ My rage was boiling over.


    Since this was the first time I¡¯d seen him since the masked ball party, my temper was frayed, and I reflected on everything he and his mother had done to me.


    Then I thought about him being Renee¡¯s cheating ex-boyfriend. Him leaking word of their rtionship to the press for money, obviously, and¡­


    ¡°Well, well, well. Look what the cat dragged in.¡± Dn said sarcastically, breaking the tense silence engulfing us.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to-¡±


    He cut me off and and spoke again, this time to his friends.¡± Guys, please take some time to say hi to Daddy dearest for me.¡± He drawled mockingly, ¡°My wealthy as fuck father, who cut me off some years ago and disappeared from my life, only toe back and steal my girlfriend.¡±


    ¡°You arrogant brat!¡± I spat, my jaw clenched as I red at him with clenched fists.


    ¡°Um, Dn¡­ We¡¯ll give you two some space to catch up.¡± One of his friends spoke hesitantly, shooting nervous nces between us.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, man. Let¡¯s go.¡± Another agreed with him. After patting Dn on the back, they hurried away, leaving us alone.


    ¡°Your friends appear to have the much-needed respect and politeness youck.¡±


    ¡°My friends and respect are two words that shouldn¡¯t be in a sentence. But I¡¯ll leave it at that. I¡¯m sure they left because they didn¡¯t want to see me humiliate you. It would be degrading and-¡±


    ¡°Humiliate me? Have you no conscience, for fuck¡¯s sake? What on Earth are you doing here? Because I don¡¯t believe that meeting here is a coincidence for a second. Did your mother send you?¡±


    ¡°Oh, pleasee on. I should be the one asking you that. What are you doing in this run-down establishment? You chose this bar out of all the bars in Ondo. Isn¡¯t it lovely¡­¡± He trailed off sarcastically, rolling his eyes as he asked again, ¡°This is not a ce for people like you, so why are you here, Daddy dearest?¡±


    I remained silent for a while, staring at the piece of work I called my son and attempting to decipher the question he posed to me.


    ¡®This wasn¡¯t a ce for people like me.¡¯ I repeated, and I couldn¡¯t deny that he was right.


    I suppose this wasn¡¯t the kind of ce that someone like me frequented, but it served its purpose for the night. No paparazzi were around, and I feltpletely free and anonymous here.


    Despite its rundown and small size, this bar provided the ideal setting for me to get away and escape everything, and that was just what I wanted.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to say anything, Father? Or¡­¡± He paused, his brows quirking, and his lips curved in a sly smirk. ¡°Oh, I see now. It¡¯s the paparazzi. That¡¯s it. You¡¯re hiding from them, and-¡±


    ¡°And it¡¯s all because of you and your crazy mother.¡± When I interrupted him, I saw the hurt on his face before it twisted into a scowl.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare call my mother crazy!¡± He snarled and leaned forward with clenched fists.


    ¡°What will you do if I call her crazy? Punch me? With those clenched fists of yours?¡± I scoffed as a crackedugh bubbled up from beneath my throat. ¡°I might be in my forties, son, but I¡¯m still fit. If we turned this ce into a boxing ring, I¡¯d beat the hell out of you. So, if I were you, I¡¯d tread carefully.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please¡­¡± He scoffed. I waited for him to say something else, but he abruptly fell silent, much to my dismay.


    ¡°Talking about paparazzi and the media¡­¡± I paused, trying to calm the rage bubbling inside me. ¡°Why did you tell the press about your rtionship with Renee?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I did it in retaliation. You fucked my girl, and I had to do something about it. I also did it for the money too. I got a hefty pay if you¡¯d like to know.¡±


    Something in his words ripped at my heart, and I wanted to grab him by the throat and¡­ fuck!


    ¡°Renee was never your girl!¡± I spat back bitterly. ¡°If I recall correctly, you cheated on her. But I¡¯m not surprised you¡¯d do something like that. I mean, isnt behavior an inherited trait?¡±


    I could tell that my statement pissed him off. With a smirk, I began to say something else, but he cut me off.


    ¡°Yes, I cheated on her. However, you still slept with my ex-girlfriend. Why did you choose Renee out of all the women in the world, Father? Why her? Or did shee to you?¡±


    ¡°Come to me?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Where on earth did you meet her? Or did she meet you herself? She most likely did it to get back at me for cheating on her. That¡¯s all there is to it!¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately for you, that¡¯s not it.¡±


    ¡°So, what happened? And please don¡¯t even attempt to defend her. I¡¯ve told Renee about you but never showed her your pictures. She must have done some research and nned everything. Swooping in and entrapping you with her golden pussy, you sumbed to her tricks, and look where it got us. She¡¯s such a bitch! A slutt who-¡±


    ¡°DON¡¯T! YOU! DARE!¡± I bellowed loudly, blood boiling, as I hit the countertop.


    I stood up from my stool and grabbed him by the cor before I realized what was happening.


    ¡°You won¡¯t insult Renee or call her names in my presence. I will not tolerate it.¡± I spat out, my grip on his shirt tightening.


    ¡°Sir, could you please¡­¡± The bartender¡¯s weak, pleading voice drew my attention away from Dn.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± I deadpanned, ring at him as I added. ¡°He¡¯s my son.¡±


    I drew my gaze back to the quivering mess in my grasp, locking my eyes on his deathly pale features.


    ¡°The damage caused by you and your mother are enough. I won¡¯t allow it to continue. There will be no more nder. No more-¡±


    ¡°I understand. Drop¡­ let go of¡­ me¡­¡± He stuttered, gasping for air and wing at my hand, attempting to pry it away from his neck, but I refused to budge.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to say shit about Renee.¡± I paused and then continued. ¡°Get this straight, Renee never approached me. We met in Miami during her vacation. A vacation she embarked on to forget about your cheating ass. So, no. She didn¡¯te up to me on purpose. Our meeting was entirely coincidental. It was the best thing that ever happened to me, and I have no regrets! You lost a good woman because you fucked up. I lost her too, but I¡¯ll get her back. Regardless of who or what, I will fight for her. It makes no difference if you slept with her or were in a rtionship. If anything, it¡¯s pushed me to correct my mistakes.¡±


    Dn opened his mouth several times to speak, but nothing came out. His hands stopped struggling against my grip, and his head tilted slightly, almost questioningly.


    ¡°This is the final warning I¡¯ll give you. Stay out of my path, and never disrespect my woman¡¯s name.¡± I finished and let go of his shirt, watching as he coughed heavily and tried to catch his breath.


    Looking around, I noticed that I¡¯d piqued the interest of a few customers at the bar, who were watching the mini scuffle between Dn and me.


    Their eyes widened with interest and the usual curiosity that came with it. It irked me.


    I needed to get out of there.


    Hissing, I brought out my wallet and took out some dor bills.


    cing it on the countertop, I pushed it toward the bartender. ¡°This should cover my bill and his.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to pay for my drink. I¡¯m fully capable of¡­¡± Dn muttered, but I interrupted him before he could finish. ¡°Don¡¯t take my kind gesture to heart. Rather, you should watch your back. Your mother should as well. Forward my message to her, as she appears to be ignoring my calls.¡±


    Without sparing him another nce, I turned and stormed out of the bar.


    Whipping out my phone from my pocket as I stepped out of the building, I dialed my driver¡¯s number, and he picked up on the first ring.


    ¡°Mr. rke.¡± His voice came through.


    ¡°Hello. Please bring the car around.¡± I instructed, before adding stiffly, ¡°I need to leave. Now.¡±

 Fruitless Search

    RENEE


    As I walked into my apartment, the soothing sound of SYML¡¯s ¡°Girl¡± yed from the small stereo in the corner.


    The song brought with it a sense of peace and calm that I rarely experienced these days. It helped me rx, even if only for a short time.


    And that was precisely what I needed right now-to rx. To let myself breathe without being weighed down by my worries. The previous few days had been¡­ trying. Trying and more challenging than I could¡¯ve imagined.


    ¡°Damn!¡± I muttered, shoulders slumping as I closed the door behind me, sighing exhaustedly against it.


    My body sagged in front of me. My hands pushed my long hair away from my face before rubbing my tired eyes and pinching my nose. I knew my sleep-deprived appearance wasn¡¯t doing me any favors, and I wouldn¡¯t say I liked thinking about how I looked.


    Instead, I tried to distract myself by recalling everything that¡¯d happened today.


    From scouring the streets of Ondo in my fruitless search for another job-since I was currently jobless and living off my meager savings-to the paparazzi and their never-ending harassment. The whole day just seemed unreal.


    My stress level was through the roof, and more so when I thought about how my job search went; I felt sick with worry about my future and job prospects.


    Why was I worried? No one was interested in hiring the media¡¯s newest obsession and hot gossip topic. Despite my academic credentials, they would shake their heads at me, saying, ¡®We wouldn¡¯t want any more scandal associated with the reputation of this belovedpany, miss. We sincerely apologize.¡¯


    With so many rumors and scandals surrounding my name, employers were on the lookout. They didn¡¯t want anything to tarnish thepany¡¯s image, and I couldn¡¯t me them.


    The entire ordeal left me exhausted and made me feel more useless than before. My inability to find a job made me doubly hopeless.


    With another sigh, I dropped my bag to the floor and copsed onto one of the nearby couches.


    I looked at the wall clock and noted that it was 4:30 p. m. I¡¯d been out longer than I should¡¯ve been.


    I¡¯d nned on scouring for jobs until two, then returni home for lunch. Apparently, I¡¯d missed both deadlines.


    Oh well¡­ So much for getting my life back on track.


    My stomach growled, rumbling in hunger, but I ignored it and began to close my eyes and sing along to the music ying softly.


    ¡®Today¡­ And all of your days. I¡¯ll wear your pain. Heal what I can in your troubled mind. Sometimes our bodies will hurt for some time¡­¡¯


    I rxed through the rest of the song, lulled by SYML¡¯s sweet and melodious voice. I reflected on the lyrics I was belting out, and my chest tightened instinctively.


    Even though my life seemed to be heading in the wrong direction, this song managed to put me at ease, and for that, I was grateful.


    I kept singing quietly, letting the words flow freely from my heart until a loud banging noise caught my attention. A loud crash followed, and I jumped to my feet quickly, fear shooting through my body.


    I looked around for the source of themotion when my bedroom door flew open, revealing Nicole in all her messy glory.


    She was looking for something because her raven hair was stered to her sweaty forehead and cheeks, and her eyes darted around.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness!¡± I huffed. ¡°You scared me half to death, bitch!¡±


    ¡°Renee? Is that you?¡± Her voice was slightly breathless as she asked, and her hands ran through her hair while she panted heavily.


    ¡°Yeah, I just came in a few minutes ago. The door was open, and the stereo sted loudly, presumably thanks to you.¡± I scoffed. ¡°You look like hell.¡±


    She responded with a heavy sigh and an exasperated look. ¡°Oh, my goodness! Renee, I should be better and not in this mess.¡±


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Pffft¡­. I saw a mouse! A mouse scurried under my bed. They were two. Then I noticed another scurrying around my closet, gnawing on my nightgown. Oh, my God! I grabbed a stick intending to hit it but tripped over some loose floorboard, and some things fell. Oh jeez¡­. Renee, you wouldn¡¯t want to go into the bedroom right now.¡±


    ¡°Of course not. I don¡¯t want to see the mess you made because of a rodent.¡± I scoffed, chuckling under my breath, and sheughed along with me.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t hear you walk in. I was so preupied with my phone, and then there was the incident with the big rodents¡­¡± She trailed off sarcastically. ¡°How are you, though? Any luck with finding a job? Is there any good news?¡±


    Her eyes searched mine, hoping for a positive response, but I just shrugged and shook my head no.


    ¡°What?!¡± Don¡¯t tell me this issue with Robert is still rubbing off and making it difficult for you to get a good job?¡± She snapped, anger and disappointment in her tone.


    ¡°Yes, Nicole. It is, and I¡¯m tired.¡±


    ¡°Oh, God.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m at a loss. Because of the scandal and gossip, no one wants to hire me. I can¡¯t me them. Okay, I got one offer. But when I met with the manager, can you believe he wanted to sleep with me?¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± Nicole eximed, her eyes widening as she listened.


    I told her everything about my meeting with the manager and his intentions, leaving nothing out, and I sighed deeply when I finished. ¡°He was so smug about the whole thing, and I felt so irritated and ashamed. He wanted a taste of the whore that billionaire Robert rke was fucking, ording to the delusional old wimp, and-¡±


    ¡°Damn¡­ It¡¯s all right, Renee. You don¡¯t need to say anything else.¡± Nicole¡¯s voice cut into my rant, but I shook my head and said, ¡°No, it¡¯s okay. I just¡­ I wish that all of this would stop. I want my boring pre-Robert life back. Not just him but Dn as well. All I want is to feel normal and free again. But that¡¯s not going to happen, is it?¡±


    Nicole stood there staring at me. Her eyes were filled with sympathy and rage, too.


    ¡°I¡¯m so disgusted. I want to meet with that manager and snap his neck. How dare he make you feel this way? Just take a look at your¡­¡± She cursed under her breath.


    ¡°I won¡¯t go looking for white-cor jobs again, though. That¡¯s one thing I learned from today¡¯s scouting expedition. I should stick to menial jobs because, despite my qualifications. Nopany wants to hire me.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that.¡±


    ¡°I have nothing else to say, Nicole, so let me pour it out. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s for the best? I could work in a downtown bar or restaurant again. It¡¯s not a new thing for me. I¡¯ll continue searching again next week and see if I¡¯m lucky.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say, miss. Have you had your lunch? And what about breakfast? Did you get something to eat outside like you said you would like this morning?¡± Nicole chastised, concern etched on her features.


    ¡°No, but I¡¯m not hungry, and-¡± My stomach growled loudly, interrupting me. My cheeks flushed.


    A knowing grin spread across Nicole¡¯s face.


    ¡°Go freshen up. I¡¯ll whip up something fast. It¡¯s the least I can do.¡± She offered, taking my wrists and pushing me toward the bedroom.


    A knock echoed through the apartment as I was about to open the bedroom door. I came to a halt. My body became stiff, too.


    ¡°Are you expecting anyone?¡± I asked Nicole.


    ¡°Not at all. Change your clothes and take your bath. I¡¯ll answer the door, and¡­¡± She paused as I released my wrists from her grasp, and before she could finish her sentence, I yanked open the door to reveal a young man dressed in¡­ delivery clothes.


    He smiled or smirked at me unprofessionally, his eyes glinting strangely.


    Everything about this delivery man screamed trouble, and I couldn¡¯t help but take a step back in surprise, carefully eyeing him.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± I began to speak, but he abruptly cut me off.


    ¡°Wow! Aren¡¯t you the infamous scandal woman. The one who made headlines. Am I right?¡± He asked with amusement, his tone cocky, while my mouth hung open, and I stared at him, perplexed. His question caught me off guard, and my mind also went nk.


    ¡°What¡­ why are you here? Who¡­ who sent you?¡± I stuttered, ignoring his questions as I shakily asked, waiting for him to respond.


    ¡°I have a delivery for¡­ for a¡­¡± He paused, his gaze fixed on a card, ¡°A Miss Renee Micheal.¡±


    When he mentioned my name, I straightened up and took the card from his trembling hands, scanning the contents.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    And then the world seemed to slow down as a strange sense of dejavu washed over me.


    Robert.


    Robert had sent the package.

 Goodbye, Robert

    ROBERT


    ¡°Robert, stop sending me flowers! Stop sending apology notes! They won¡¯t change anything, so stop. Stop it!¡± Renee¡¯s voice came through from the other end of the phone the moment I pressed the answer button and held the phone to my ear.


    I shivered slightly. Her call had arrived just as I was wallowing in self-pity, with a bottle of whiskey in hand and a te of uneaten food staring nkly at me.


    I¡¯d been ready to drown myself in a sea of sadness when this phone call interrupted my lonely reverie.


    Like always, her voice pulled me out from under the water where my problems had taken hold, forcing me into a state of self-consciousness I hadn¡¯t felt in days.


    Renee was my lifeline. A ray of sunshine amid a stormy sky. She made me want to be more. To be better. She was my rock, the one thing that kept me grounded in the midst of this constant chaos.


    Ever since she¡¯de into my life, everything had changed.


    For the first time in years, I felt so in love. So happy. So, satisfied. So, content. Soplete. But then I¡¯d ruined everything by being selfish.


    I¡¯d ruined it all by not trusting her enough to disclose my most intimate secrets. I¡¯d shut her out, thinking I was protecting our rtionship, but I wasn¡¯t.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± The words flew out of me, leaving a sharp pain behind, and echoed around the room like a warning shot fired into a still sky.


    ¡°Did you hear what I just said?¡± Renee¡¯s voice came through, this time sterner and harsher. Something about her tone and how she spoke made my heart ache terribly.


    ¡°Yes¡­ Yes, I did.¡± I stuttered. ¡°I heard you and¡­ Renee, you called me once, and I immediately picked up when I saw your name sh across my screen, but you¡¯ve ignored my calls and texts. Why?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wondering why? Isn¡¯t it obvious? I don¡¯t want to talk to you, Robert. I wanted to block your phone number, but I kept forgetting. Don¡¯t you understand? We¡¯re over, and I don¡¯t want to see or hear from you again. You could send as many flowers as you want from now until whenever, but my decision remains unchanged. We should go our separate ways. I¡¯ve moved on, and you should as well.¡±


    ¡°Really? You¡¯ve moved on?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ yes. I¡­ I have.¡± She stuttered. Even though her voice had an odd mix of hurt and anger, I could detect her lie.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Also, if I guessed correctly, she was either crying or trying her best not to.


    Back to her statement, I winced slightly at the realization that her words hurt. They cut into me with a sharp, painful force.


    ¡®She¡¯d moved on. I should let her go. We were over.


    My mind raced through all the possible ways she could¡¯ve moved on without me. Was she seeing someone else? Did she rece me so quickly and¡­? Fuck! The idea of Renee with another man made me sick to my stomach.


    Clearing my throat and doing my best to sound strong and confident, even though I knew deep down I was anything but, I spoke up. Softly and gently this time, carefully selecting my words.


    ¡°You should stop saying things like this, Renee. You may be done with me as you im, but I am not-¡±


    ¡°Oh, please¡­¡± She interrupted before I could finish. ¡°We¡¯re done, and I¡¯ll say it again and again. You should stop sending me flowers and just leave me the fuck alone!¡±


    ¡°Renee, I can¡¯t. Can¡¯t you see? I just can¡¯t let you go. I need you.¡± My voice cracked as my chest tightened and heaved simultaneously.


    ¡°Robe-¡±


    ¡°I told you that day, Renee, that I¡¯m not a man who backs down from a fight. You should know I won¡¯t stop until I get you back.¡±


    ¡°But we¡¯re done!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not.¡±


    ¡°We are!¡±


    ¡°No. Not until I reim you. Not until I make you mine again.¡±


    Silence fell. It seemed to go on forever, and I took advantage of the few seconds to gather myself and prepare my next words carefully.


    ¡°I want to see you¡­ Please.¡± I said, breaking the tense quiet. ¡°I need to apologize once more for what happened and-¡±


    ¡°Goddamnit.¡± She hissed, interrupting me.


    ¡°What¡­ Renee?¡± My voice sounded confused and lost-well, I was lost.


    ¡°What the hell do you take me for? Like, really?!¡± There was a strange note in her tone, almost like a bitter chuckle, and it made a shiver run down my spine.


    The shrillness in her voice had me wincing momentarily, and I closed my eyes briefly, preparing myself for whatever she¡¯d say next.


    ¡°Do you know how much it hurts hearing you say that? Telling me you want to see me, and you want to apologize when I keep telling you I don¡¯t want any of that. How can you even think I¡¯ll take you back after what you put me through? My trust in you is broken, and I¡¯m a mess here. My whole life¡¯s a mess. I¡¯m not falling for your shit anymore, Robert. Just know this-I¡¯M NOT GOING TO ANSWER YOUR PHONE CALLS. NO MORE TEXTS. NO MORE FLOWERS. NO MORE APOLOGY NOTES. NO MORE GIFTS OF ANY KIND. JUST LEAVE ME ALONE.¡± Her words rang loudly through the phone, echoing over and over.


    There was no point in trying to speak through this raging storm of emotions, so instead, I listened to everything she screamed. I didn¡¯t utter a word at all.


    ¡°I¡¯m never going to see you again, Robert. If you don¡¯t want to end this rtionship, that¡¯s your problem because I¡¯m physically and mentally done. Your so-called delivery guy just added to my bad day and¡­ fuck!¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute, what?¡±


    ¡°Yes. In case you didn¡¯t know, the delivery man called me a whore.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I repeated, my mouth open at the same time.


    ¡°Yeah. He¡¯s seen me on the news and recognizes me. He said a lot of nasty shit to me, and I bet he¡¯s not the only one who¡¯s going to. I¡¯ve had more than enough of all this drama as it is.¡±


    My body tensed as if I¡¯d been punched hard in the ribs. After everything Renee had been through, thest thing she needed was insults from any motherfucker.


    After everything the media had said about her, the mere thought of her being harassed by that motherfucker made my teeth clench. Oh, the deliverypany was going to pay dearly. I would make sure of it!


    ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry, Renee. I¡¯ll take care of the delivery man. Nobody will ever bully or insult you again. I¡¯m not going to let them. I guarantee it. I¡¯m already dealing with the media, and¡­¡± I trailed off, unable to say anything more even though I wanted to.


    I wanted to tell her that I had so many ns in motion and that I¡¯d finalized all of them with Mark, my assistant, only a few minutes before she called.


    n A was in the works, and I had another big surprise for her-something to do with the restaurant where she¡¯d beenid off.


    I wanted to tell her everything and show her I was doing all I could to ensure she was never hurt again. If only she¡¯d let me, I was trying to get us back on track. But¡­


    ¡°Renee¡­.¡± I began softly, ¡°Give me a chance to prove that I can be better. You¡¯re pushing me away, but I¡¯m never letting go. So please tell me if there¡¯s anything that can ease your pain and hurt. Tell me. I¡¯ll do it. So far as it doesn¡¯t mean we¡¯re over for good. Damn, Renee. I can¡¯t ept that.¡±


    As I finished speaking, silence descended once more. Time seemed to stand still, and my chest heaved lightly.


    I waited with patience for her reply. I waited to hear what she had to say. I hoped for something positive, at least. Maybe my pestering would move her a bit.


    Finally, after some seconds or minutes, she sighed.


    I couldn¡¯t tell if it was a sigh of relief or exhaustion. But it indicated she had something to say, which made me happy.


    ¡°Robert.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Renee?¡±


    ¡°Robert.¡± She called, her voice soft and almost whisper-like. My chest tightened, and my heart ached deeply due to the tone.


    ¡°Right now, the best thing you could do for me¡­. is to let me go.¡±


    A single tear slid down my cheek from nowhere, and a small inaudible sob escaped my lips.


    ¡°Renee¡­ Please. You can¡¯t expect that from me.¡±


    ¡°Just let me go. I¡¯m attempting to move on, and you should do the same. This will be thest time you hear from me, so please remove my phone number from your contact list. I¡¯ll be doing the same.¡±


    ¡°No, Renee. Don¡¯t you-¡± I began to say, but she cut in.


    ¡°I¡¯m having a bad day, and it¡¯s mostly because of you. The damage you caused is making my life a living hell as it is. If you don¡¯t want to add to my problems, steer clear of me. Goodbye, Robert.¡±


    I opened my mouth to protest, but she didn¡¯t give me a chance.


    The line went dead, and I stared nkly at my phone¡¯s screen.


    Everything she¡¯d said pricked my tongue and left a bitter aftertaste in my mouth-than the sour taste of the whiskey I¡¯d been drinking.


    Her words struck a chord within me. Their finality shook me to my core and left an imprint that wasn¡¯t going away anytime soon. And I wouldn¡¯t say I liked it.


    Inside my head, my subconscious whispered, ¡®If you think she¡¯ll easily forgive you for what you did, man, you¡¯re wrong. So, so, so wrong. You must grovel. You must suffer for inflicting such pain on her. You must feel the repercussions of the public humiliation you have caused her.¡¯


    Shaking my head, I looked around the empty room, and slowly closed my eyes, trying my best to fight away the fear lurking within me.


    The fear that I might have lost the love of my life forever and there was no real chance of fixing my rtionship with them.


    I kept saying I couldn¡¯t let her go. Like never, ever. And yet, it seemed I might have to.

 The Apology Gift

    RENEE


    ¡°I¡¯ll go check who¡¯s at the door.¡± Nicole offered, smiling as she kissed me goodbye and exited the bedroom for the living room.


    ¡°If it¡¯s the delivery guy with flowers and notes, just send him back to wherever he came from.¡± I yelled after her, my eyes rolling.


    ¡°As usual.¡± She snickered.


    ¡°Of course. As usual.¡± I said.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do exactly that, mydy. Whatever you say.¡± She responded with a mock curtsy, and I rolled my eyes.


    Sighing, I sat on my bed, pushing theforter across my legs and pulling my knees into my chest.


    I leaned back and watched as the sun rays from outside flickered across the walls and curtains, casting a warm orange hue into the small cozy room.


    My thoughts drifted away as I reminisced on the past few days¡¯ events. I faintly smiled and closed my eyes as I inhaled the fresh breeze that filtered through the open window.


    Even though my life was in shambles, and I was still unemployed, I was doing my best to stay positive.


    Suffice it to say that nothing else in my life interested me anymore, but I tried so hard not to dwell on that.


    However, I was struggling physically and mentally because of the man who had once upied my thoughts more than anyone else on the.


    Robert.


    My heart raced like crazy when I thought of him, and my chest tightened painfully.


    I missed him. So, so much, despite my best efforts to deny it.


    When things got tough, he was the only person who could keep me grounded and make my world feel more manageable.


    Hisughter, his presence. The sound of him calling me and assuring me everything would be fine.


    The way his lips felt against mine. And the smell and feel of him. God, he always smelled so good.


    So fresh and clean. Not the musky, spicy cologne that most men preferred¡­ Robert was the exact pr opposite. He was wless and perfect. He was everything, and yet I¡¯d pushed him away.


    I¡¯d told him to leave, yet he hadn¡¯t.


    A little painedughter bubbled from the back of my throat as I thought of the flowers, he kept sending every day-each one different and exquisite, with handwritten notes attached.


    The notes were addressed with the words ¡®My Sweet Renee¡­¡¯ and each said something different every time.


    Sometimes he¡¯d go on and on about how he was feeling at the moment, how much it hurt that he hadn¡¯t heard my voice in such a long while or touched me too, and how badly he wanted me by his side.


    Sometimes his writing appeared cluttered, as if he was rushing, and I couldn¡¯t understand half of what he wrote. But I knew exactly what he was trying to tell me-the message he was trying to convey.


    Apart from that, I sincerely admired his effort and tenacity in trying to win me back and get me to forgive him. Still, I knew from experience that none of this mattered.


    Yes, the flowers and notes were romantic and sweet, but I couldn¡¯t forget the reality of our situation. I couldn¡¯t forget what he¡¯d done to me. The secrets he¡¯d kept from me and the humiliation I was still subjected to as a result of his crappy actions.


    He¡¯d hurt me, and though I¡¯d healter on, the pain was still fresh for now.


    I couldn¡¯t forget it so quickly or forgive him and act like nothing happened.


    Aside from that, what would the media say if we did reconcile? I¡¯d considered it before and decided I couldn¡¯t handle the scrutiny.


    The media would adore Robert and praise him, but what about me? I¡¯d always be known as thedy who slept with a father and his son. A whore. A slut.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness¡­¡± I muttered aloud, rubbing my temple where an ache had formed behind my eyes. ¡°I need to sleep¡­¡±


    ¡®But Renee, you just woke. It¡¯s not even eight in the morning.¡¯


    ¡°Right. Perhaps I should drink some orange juice and read a book. I need to do something tobat my daily boredom and¡­¡±


    ¡°Renee?!¡± Nicole¡¯s voice interrupted my rambling thoughts, and I jumped in surprise.


    ¡°Yes. What¡¯s the deal with the delivery?¡± I asked, stretching my neck to look past her, ¡°Who¡¯s at the door?¡±


    She was still standing by the front door, holding something that looked like an envelope, and from her bodynguage, I could see she was a bit startled.


    ¡°You gottae check this out, Renee!¡± She eximed. I arched my brows in confusion.


    ¡°Huh?!¡± That was all I said before dragging myself over to Nicole, who was staring at me with wide, excited eyes.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Take a look at it yourself.¡± Nicole replied curtly and handed me the package.


    My hands shook as I held the envelope, and my heart thudded loudly.


    ¡°Where is the delivery guy?¡± I asked Nicole, and the emptiness of the doorway gave me my answer before she could respond.


    The delivery man had vanished.


    I slowly turned the envelope in my hands and began to open it.


    My heartbeat was racing, and I was fighting the growing panic in my stomach.


    What kind of present was this? I knew it was from Robert because his signature R was neatly stitched along the top of the paper.


    What was he up to this time? I turned over the brown paper wrapping and opened the p at the top to reveal a small white note attached tightly at the edge.


    The note had three sentences, scrawled neatly in dark cursive writing. ¡®Love means patience. Patience surely pays off, and the reward for me is your forgiveness. This is my special apology present to you.  Robert.¡¯


    I sucked in a breath as I continued to unfold the package, feeling lightheaded with my eyes burning-his words from earlier reying in my head repeatedly.


    I could hear Nicole asking me questions about the package, but I ignored her, concentrating instead on unwrapping the envelope and¡­ I saw it.


    Damn! What the hell was this? When I saw what the papers inside contained, my breathing came in gasps, and a frown marred my features.


    A key? A single keyid innocently on top of some official-looking documents and¡­


    ¡°Renee!¡± Nicole¡¯s worried voice cut through my haze, and I looked up to see her staring at me. Her gaze dropped to the key in my hand, and she asked, ¡°What¡¯s that? A key from Robert? What does this mean?¡± She asked, and I shrugged my shoulders. I was as perplexed as she was.


    ¡°Is this a prank? What are these other papers for? They look like official documents.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Nicole. I don¡¯t know.¡± I murmured, my gaze still fixed on the items in my hands.


    ¡°Renee, are you alright? You¡¯re trembling, and your face is flushed red.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I¡­¡±


    ¡°Here, let me look at that.¡± She offered, taking the envelope from me and scanning the documents with her brow furrowed. She suddenly gasped out loud, and the sound startled me.


    ¡°What the¡­?¡± When I looked up at her, she mumbled under her breath, and her expression became strange, with her eyes growing impossibly wider.


    ¡°Wait¡­ what does the¡­ the papers¡­ what does it say?¡± I stammered nervously, staring at her with a worried expression.


    Her gaze remained fixed on the paper in her hands before she swallowed heavily and opened her mouth as if to say something-but nothing came out.


    ¡°Nicole,e on, talk to me.¡± I urged her, and she finally spoke up.


    ¡°This is a property deed.¡±


    ¡°Property deed? You mean-¡±


    She abruptly cut me off before I could finish.


    ¡°These are original and duplicate copies of a signed contract transferring ownership of a building to you.¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute, what? Robert bought me a building?¡± I asked, wholly perplexed.


    ¡°He did. Renee, this isn¡¯t just any random building. It¡¯s the restaurant. Robert bought your old workce and is now giving it to you. There¡¯s a document here that requires your signature. If you sign it, the building will be yours to do as you please. Wow!¡± Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she screamed. ¡°This is crazy!¡±


    Crazy? That was putting it mildly. This was a motherfucking big deal. As Nicole began reading the specifics of the written contract, I stood motionless, unable to speak.


    Robert had purchased a restaurant. For me. Here in Ondo.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Holy fucking shit!

 Lovers Spat

    ROBERT


    ¡°Mr. rke. Someone¡¯s waiting for you in the office.¡±


    As my secretary leaned over the table and whispered something into my ear, I looked up from the conference desk, trying my best not to scowl.


    ¡°And why are you telling me this? I said I didn¡¯t want any interruptions or intrusions, right? I¡¯m in the middle of a crucial conversation here.¡± I motioned to the board members seated dutifully, waiting for me to continue our discussion. ¡°Any visitor is wee to wait. I¡¯ll take care of them after I finish here.¡±


    But my secretary wasn¡¯t paying attention. ¡°The visitor appears adamant about seeing you right now.¡± She continued, her brow furrowed. ¡°She is¡­¡±


    ¡°She?¡±


    ¡°Yes. The guest is ady. A certain Miss Renee.¡±


    Renee? Holy shit! What was she doing here? My lips twitched, and my eyes widened in surprise.


    ¡°Did you say, Miss Renee?¡± I asked, this time softly.


    ¡°Yes sir, that¡¯s right,¡± my secretary replied with a nod.


    ¡°Oh¡­ But it won¡¯t be Miss Renee for long. Mrs. rke would be a better fit.¡± I mused aloud, grinning as I saw my secretary¡¯s stunned expression.


    ¡°What¡­ what¡­ what should I say to her?¡± My secretary stuttered. ¡°Should I call security to send her away and¡­?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± I snapped. ¡°I¡¯ll be right there.¡±


    ¡°Alright, sir.¡± She nodded, turning away, and I watched her leave.


    As the door to the conference room closed behind her, I turned to face my board and cleared my throat, trying to remain professional despite the rush of adrenaline coursing through my veins.


    ¡°Please excuse my secretary¡¯s unannounced arrival, and I¡¯d like to apologize for my sudden exit. I¡¯ve just been informed of a critical matter requiring my immediate attention. This meeting will be adjourned, and we¡¯ll reconvene at 10 a. m. tomorrow. Any objections?¡± I checked to see if anyone had anyints, and when I didn¡¯t get any, I added, ¡°Good. Please excuse me,dies and gentlemen.¡±


    With a grateful bow, I rose from my chair and exited the conference room, going down the hallway toward my office.


    My mind was buzzing with anticipation and excitement as I wondered why Renee had decided to stop by.


    Was it because she missed me? Was she here to settle our differences or¡­ and then it hit me.


    She must have gotten the gift. That was the only logical reason for her visit, and the thought made me smile.


    My feisty woman was probably here to kick up a fuss about it.


    She¡¯d warned me countless times that she didn¡¯t want any more gifts, and I guess buying her the restaurant was the straw that broke the camel¡¯s back.


    I mean, it brought her to me, which was a significant achievement. It didn¡¯t count for much because I knew she was here to raze down the whole building, but then¡­ damn! I missed Renee so much, and all that mattered right now was seeing her face.


    My steps quickened until; finally, I reached the entrance to my office, breathing heavily as the door flew open, and I skidded inside.


    Instantly I spotted her. She stood by my desk, hands sped tightly in front of her chest, shoulders straight back and tall, head held high, and a determined frown on her face.


    The sight of her caused an unexpected jolt in my heart, and the soft smile on my face widened. Fuck!


    I wondered how long it¡¯d been since I¡¯d seen her, and now more than ever, I wish I could reach out, pull her into an embrace, and kiss her senselessly. Damn!


    The thought almost made me smile, but then I studied the dead expression on her face, and I discarded every lustful thought.


    The corners of her mouth were tense, and her entire body exuded a chill that made me quiver.


    Renee was angry. I could already feel the fire burning in her dark eyes as they met mine.


    ¡°Hello, baby girl-¡± I murmured lowly, taking slow, straightforward strides toward her.


    She cut me off abruptly before I could finish. ¡°What have you done?¡± I saw her left hand whip out something from her purse and m it hard on my desk.


    Papers rattled and scattered everywhere, a few falling off the desk¡¯s edge, and I instinctively took a step back.


    Ignoring the mess she¡¯d made, she stepped toward me, focusing all her fury on me as her eyes narrowed to a slit.


    ¡°What. Have. You. Done?!¡± She asked; each word punctuated with each step she took.


    ¡°Whoa, Renee. Calm down.¡± I began in a conciliatory tone, raising both hands in a mock surrender gesture, but she wasn¡¯t having it. ¡°Oh, Robert, cut the crap. How can I rx after what you¡¯ve done?¡±


    ¡°You should rx because this is the first time you¡¯ve seen me in days, if not weeks, and I expected a better reception despite our grievances. I¡¯ve missed your fiery personality, but please calm down so we can talk.¡±


    ¡°I called your line, and it went straight to voicemail. Were you ignoring my calls on purpose? Knowing that if you didn¡¯t pick up, I would have toe here.¡±


    ¡°Why would I refuse your calls? I was in a heated conference meeting with my board members. That¡¯s why I couldn¡¯t pick up the phone. It¡¯s ironic that I just ran out of that meeting because I wanted to see you.¡±


    ¡°Well, I didn¡¯te here for you.¡± She spoke up abruptly. ¡°I came because I want you to exin what you mean by this!¡± She yelled, waving the documents in her hand in front of my face.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes! I wouldn¡¯t have toe, if you¡¯d pick up my calls. Thanks to Nicole, she practically begged me toe here and talk this out.¡±


    ¡°I suppose I owe Nicole now, eh?¡± I remarked sarcastically, my grin widening. For a split second, Renee¡¯s expression softened. But just barely. In a sh, the look vanished.


    ¡°I¡¯m waiting, Robert. Exin.¡± She finished curtly, her eyes shooting daggers at me. Fuck if she didn¡¯t look even more stunning.


    A tense silence befell us, and I used the spare minutes to run my gaze over my woman.


    I didn¡¯t care if she was waiting for an exnation about why I¡¯d bought her a restaurant or how she felt about the whole thing.


    All that mattered was that she was right in front of me, just a few inches away. It would only take one move to bring her into my arms and hug her passionately-never letting her go.


    We were so close yet far apart, but that wouldn¡¯t stop me. It didn¡¯t make me any less interested in Renee. It didn¡¯t stop me from wanting her, from loving her.


    ¡°What¡¯s the deal with your clothes?¡± I asked out of the blue, unable to stop myself from looking down at her attire.


    ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re covered up with scarves and everything. I wouldn¡¯t have recognized you if I hadn¡¯t been told you were in my office.¡± I scoffed and watched her lips thin.


    ¡°How I dress is none of your business.¡±


    I shrugged my shoulders, and my lips curled into a sly smile. ¡°You¡¯re dressed like this because of the paparazzi. You don¡¯t want them to recognize you. I love seeing you like this, actually.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want anyone to see what¡¯s mine. Your body belongs to me. Only me.¡± My voice was low and deep. I noticed the pink dust on her cheeks before she averted her gaze.


    Oh, I still affected her. Nice, nice!


    ¡°My body doesn¡¯t belong to you.¡± She mumbled bitterly. I shook my head, amused by her refusal to acknowledge the truth.


    I was tempted to tell her just how much of her body belonged to me. Hell, I wanted to show her.


    Despite the brewing tension, and the spat we had going on, I knew I could make Renee quiver just by looking at her with the faintest hint of lust. I needed to use that. Use it to get her to rx and let me make amends for my past transgressions.


    That¡¯s why I took a step forward, hands stretching out but stopping when she cleared her throat. The sound made me freeze instantly.


    ¡°You still haven¡¯t given me an exnation, Robert. I¡¯m sick and tired of yourid-back demeanor and nonchnce. It irritates me.¡± She spat and I rolled my eyes at her pettiness.


    ¡°What kind of exnation do you want?¡±


    ¡°You sent me keys and a deed document this morning. I confirmed with Sally that the restaurant had been sold, and was it a coincidence that the new name had my initials? R. M? I don¡¯t understand. Make me understand.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Renee. Isn¡¯t it obvious?¡±


    ¡°What is?¡±


    ¡°Every exnation you need is written in the papers I gave you. The restaurant is my apology present to you. You were fired unwillingly, and it was my fault, so I¡¯m trying to make amends. Can¡¯t you see?¡±


    ¡°What the heck? Are you insane, Robert?¡±


    ¡°Insane? You mean insanely in love with you? Well, yes, I am, and I¡¯ll foolishly admit it.¡±


    ¡°Oh, for God¡¯s sake! I don¡¯t need any more apology presents from you. I¡¯ve stressed it a thousand times, but you keep sending me flowers, and trinkets, and now this¡­ you freaking bought a restaurant! Like the entire building, and-¡±


    ¡°You mean your restaurant?¡± I interjected, a smug smile on my lips. ¡°It¡¯s yours, now, Renee. And it¡¯ll be yours to use however you want.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve got to be kidding me.¡±


    ¡°Not at all. I finalized the dealst week. It may also be of interest to you that all your former coworkers have beenid off because the building is still being renovated. You could call them, exin the situation, and reassure them that their jobs are secure. Everything is in your hands now, baby girl.¡±


    ¡°Stop calling me that! I don¡¯t want the restaurant, and I¡¯m not signing the damned papers. I brought them here for you to stuff up your ass. I don¡¯t want any-motherfucking-thing from you, Robert! I do not!¡±


    ¡°Well¡­what can I say? The former manager will be contacting you. You could learn a thing or two from her. You could learn from me, too. I¡¯m here to assist you in any way I can. You can also get an apology from her for how she used to treat you. I hope you two can mend fences and coborate amicably for the sake of your restaurant.¡±Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    When I finished talking, Renee opened her mouth to say something, but to my surprise, she burst outughing.


    It was a sourugh. Tears welled up at the corners of her eyes and streamed down her cheeks in mock disbelief, or was it disgust? Well, I had no idea.


    With eachugh that escaped her mouth, her face contorted and crumpled. She finally calmed down after several minutes of hystericalughter and furious wiping at her teary cheeks. She managed to control herself, but the deranged humorous look never wholly left her eyes.


    They still held anger in them. The same anger I could feel pulsing off her like electricity.


    ¡°You¡¯re doing all of this¡­¡± She paused before continuing, ¡°Because you want us back together, but I¡¯ve told you, Robert, there¡¯s no us anymore. What exactly don¡¯t you understand? Or do you want me to borate?¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m deaf in part. I can¡¯t understand a word you¡¯re saying right now.¡± I replied with a mocking smirk.


    ¡°Do you think this a joke? There¡¯s nothing funny about this. I¡¯m being serious here. Stop grinning. Stop making that goofy smirk and just¡­.¡±


    I let her trail off as I began to move toward her, closing the gap between us until I was mere inches away.


    This time, she didn¡¯t take a step backward. Instead, her breath hitched, with her eyes darting down to my lips, and Iughed.


    ¡°Stop¡­ damn it. Stopughing!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t, Renee. I¡¯ve missed you. I¡¯ve missed this. Your banter, the sound of your voice when you¡¯re angry and you¡¯re yelling at me, or when you beg me softly and¡­.¡± I trailed off, realizing that I was already dangerously close enough to her face, our breathing mingled, and our noses almost touched.


    I shivered as goosebumps appeared all over my body, and I felt her hot breath against my skin.


    ¡°Take a step back, Ro¡­ Ro¡­ Robert.¡± She muttered weakly under her breath. But for someone who didn¡¯t want me invading her space, she remained rooted in ce, her gaze fixed on my lips, and her lips slowly parted.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t stay back, Renee. I simply cannot. Whatever this is, I have to do it. I-¡±


    ¡°Please, Robert.¡±


    ¡°You may have given up on me, but I haven¡¯t given up on you. On us. Never, ever, because¡­¡± I paused, inhaling sharply. ¡°Because I love you so damn much. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever loved anyone as much as I love you. I often wonder why I didn¡¯t meet you sooner. Before Dn. Before everything else. You came into my world and just rocked my universe. My life has no meaning without you in it, Renee. Damn!¡±


    ¡°Please, stop talking. This won¡¯t change anything at all. So¡­ st-stop it.¡± She stuttered, closing her eyes tight as she bit her trembling lips.


    I ignored her pleas. ¡°You¡¯re everything to me, Renee. Everything important. You mean the whole world to me, and I don¡¯t care what anyone says. We¡¯ll never break, no matter what they think of us. They can try all they want, and they can hate and judge us, but it won¡¯t change the fact that you¡¯re my motherfucking soulmate. Renee, you¡¯re mine. MINE, MINE, MINE!¡±


    With my fierce deration, I leaned in closer, and before she could protest, I sealed our lips, roughly pushing past her open lips and wrapping my arms around her waist as I drew her inexorably closer.


    At first, she struggled, but then she slowly and gently yielded, allowing me to engulf her. Enveloping her in my embrace, I kissed her hungrily, as if my life depended on it.


    Losing myself in this blissful moment, I focused solely on Renee. My girl.


    Her plump lips and delectable taste- her scent surrounding me, filling my nostrils, invading my senses, and making me dizzy and intoxicated.


    To my shock, after a few seconds, Renee wrapped her arms around my neck. She started to return the kiss with a passion neither of us had felt in a long time, and it felt like nothing in the world mattered.


    It was as if the world had stopped altogether, and only Renee and I existed.


    Only us. And nothing else. Nothing else at all¡­

 Lust & Desire

    RENEE


    As Robert¡¯s lips plundered me, our tongues shed, our bodies collided, and my heart exploded with emotion.


    He was kissing me. This man who was the absolute love of my life. My soulmate. My all. My everything.


    He was my nemesis. Someone I imed to despise with a zeal that could incinerate anything in its path. He¡¯d hurt me so much I¡¯d vowed to never forgive him.


    I¡¯d told myself a thousand times that we¡¯d never be together again, but now he was kissing me. And fuck, if I didn¡¯t like it.


    Hell, I wanted this. Damn it! I wanted him even more desperately now.


    As his hands caressed, my hair and the kiss deepened, my knees weakened, and my brain began to shut down.


    Everything softened within me, and I melted into him, craving his warmth. His touch. His love.


    This should¡¯ve been a romantic moment-after all, we were kissing after weeks apart. It ought to have meant something. But it didn¡¯t, not with our ongoing quarrel and the fact that I still held a strong grudge against him.


    ¡°Fuck, Renee. How did I go so long without kissing you? Without tasting you? I¡¯ve missed this¡­¡± He paused, tearing his lips away from mine for a brief moment and adding, ¡°I¡¯ve missed you. So, so fucking much.¡±


    Then he kissed me again. This time harder and faster than before. His tongue stroked the seams between my lips and mouth, and I felt his hands slowly move down my body, cupping my breasts.


    ¡°God!¡± He groaned, grabbing my waist, and before I knew it, he dragged me across the office to wherever. I was too drunk on lust to notice.


    ¡°Robert¡­ Robert!?¡± I yelped when I felt my back against a wall and found myself pressed tightly against its surface.


    My feet were no longer on the ground. Instead, they were wrapped around his waist. By all indications, Robert had me under his control. Right where he wanted me to be, of course.


    Gasping breathlessly for air, I held him close as he continued his blissful assault.


    Robertpped at me like a tornado. He bit at my lips, licked my neck, and nipped at my soft, silky skin, tasting every inch of me.


    He was a possessed man, like a raging hurricane sweeping over my body.


    He was relentless in his lustful pursuit, and I was powerless to stop him. Or was I?


    ¡°Robert¡­ Ro¡­ put me down.¡± I groaned and gently pushed at his shoulder, but to no avail.


    He refused to budge, and his incensed desire for me grew tenfold.


    I begged once more, desperate. ¡°Please let me go, Robert.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t, baby girl. Never.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please¡­¡± I scoffed, rolling my eyes as I defiantly red at him. ¡°We were talking about the restaurant. We have to keep talking and figure that out.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m not taking the restaurant or your other gifts.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯d love to see you try and refuse them.¡± He spoke, his voice hoarse, low, and sexy, making my thighs tingle.


    However, my patience was wearing thin, and I knew I had to get my head straight. I had to stop this-whatever this was-before I did something stupid and gave in entirely.


    ¡°You have to ept the gifts, baby girl. No two ways about that. The restaurant is yours, and the sooner youe to terms with that, the easier it¡¯ll be for you.¡± He murmured, his hot breath fanning across my face as he ced a chaste kiss on my jawline, my ear, and the corner of my lips.


    ¡°And why do I have to? Can¡¯t you see I don¡¯t want anything to do with you or your gifts?¡±


    ¡°Sure, you don¡¯t want anything to do with me, but your legs are wrapped around my waist, and I could have you screaming my name in seconds.¡± He mocked. ¡°Besides, if you reject my gift, you¡¯ll be responsible for the unemployment of your former coworkers who are now relying on you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare ckmail me¡­¡± I trailed off, lips quivering.


    He was right and it made me despise him all the more.


    Since I was the new owner of the building, Sally and the rest of my co-workers now relied on me when it came to securing their jobs. They depended on me, and I didn¡¯t know whether to be happy or sad.


    Damn, Robert! Damn him and his cunning maniptions.


    ¡°I¡¯m not ckmailing you, sweetheart. I¡¯m just stating the obvious. We both understand that you don¡¯t want toy off your employees. Your mother once told me you¡¯re a sweet girl with a big heart. I know you won¡¯t misuse this opportunity to do good. That I-¡±


    ¡°My mom? You¡¯ve been talking to my mother?¡± I shrieked, horrified. ¡°What did you say to her? How did you get through to her and-¡±


    I didn¡¯t get to finish my question. Robert cut me off with his lips, kissing the life out of me and stealing the words from me.


    My nails dug into his back in a rage as my fingers gripped his shoulders tightly. I tried to tear my lips away from his, wanting him to stop kissing me, but I failed woefully, and in response, Robert bit down sharply on my bottom lip.


    I screamed in agony at the sharp bite, but he didn¡¯t stop nibbling at the chapped, sore flesh, so I bit him back.


    Our teeth ttered against each other, and we both winced at the taste of blood and saliva. My God, this was terrible.


    More shivers ran up my spine as I felt another surge of desire course through me, sending blood rushing through my veins, rendering mepletely helpless and unable to think correctly.


    As his tongue slipped past the edge of my lips and entered deeper into my mouth, swirling around, his firm grip on the side of my hips loosened, and his kisses became more demanding.


    For once, he wasn¡¯t holding back or teasing me; instead, he took me to paradise with his tongue, and my eyes rolled in ecstasy.


    This felt so good. So, so fucking good.


    His hands wandered, and before I knew it, he¡¯d worked his way through the front of my oversized shirt, roughly undoing the buttons and sending the essory skittering onto the floor.


    Then he yanked at my bra until both straps fell down my shoulders, and the sight of my exposed breasts made him growl. ¡°Renee¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ro-¡± I started to say something, but I was cut off when I felt his fingers lightly tickle my left nipple.


    Letting go briefly, he grabbed my right breast, squeezed it yfully, and then dropped his tongue on the bud,pping hungrily.


    ¡°Ah, Robert!¡± I moaned, my hands tangling in his hair.


    His mouth clung to the curve of one breast, teasing and suckling at the tender peak. Different heady sensations began to flow within me.


    Once again, I tried to get him to stop. Despite how soaked I was, I pushed him away, doing my best to fight him off.


    I hit his broad chest in mock frustration, whimpering my pleas, but Robert didn¡¯t stop. He refused to let me go.


    After a while, he removed his mouth from my now overtly engorged breasts, his eyes gleamed dangerously, and his lips curled up in a wolfish grin. He teased, ¡°See howpliant you are in my hands, baby girl? Your skin is flushed red, your eyes are zed with desire, your lips are swollen, and your puckered nipples are begging for my mouth.¡±


    ¡°Fuck you!¡± I hissed and pped his broad shoulders. He just grinned wickedly.


    ¡°No, baby girl. It¡¯s fuck me. That¡¯s what you should say because that¡¯s what you want.¡±


    His gaze still held mine. His fingers trailed along the curves of my breasts, tickling me sensually.


    ¡°Say it!¡±


    ¡°Say what?¡±


    ¡°Say you want me to fuck you. I know you want it. I¡¯m sure you do. Don¡¯t deny yourself anymore.¡±


    ¡°No! I hate you, and I don¡¯t want you to fuck me. I want you to drop me this instant!¡± I spat, turning my head sideways and refusing to look at him.


    The sight of him grinning so confidently, knowing he had me exactly where he wanted me, caused me internal turmoil. If I didn¡¯t take care, I¡¯d surely end up naked, vulnerable, and at his mercy.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Chuckling and interrupting my thoughts, Robert whispered into my ear, ¡°You want my mouth on your pussy, Renee. I know you do. And when I start eating you out, I¡¯ll use my fingers to pleasure you until you orgasm over and over. Then I¡¯d drape your fat ass over my office desk, plunge my dick into your tight hole, and make you scream my name. Over and over again. As many times as necessary. So, say the magic words, baby girl. Say it, and I¡¯ll get to work.¡±


    ¡°Fuck you!¡± I hissed, desperately trying to sound unaffected but failing miserably.


    Robert had me hook, line, and sinker.


    My pants were soaked, and my entire body shook violently in ways I couldn¡¯t control. If I didn¡¯t get to orgasm at least once before leaving this office, I¡¯d go crazy.


    ¡°I¡¯ve always known you were feisty, sweetheart, but that¡¯s biting you in the ass right now. You can do better.¡±


    At his words I bobbed my head, different thoughts wheezing through. I could do better. Most definitely.


    ¡°Even if I let you fuck me, it doesn¡¯t change anything between us. You know that, right?¡± I muttered, my breathing ragged as images of Robert thrusting deep inside me shed through my brain, and heat spread through my body once more.


    ¡°You think?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I despise you, and the only reason we¡¯d fuck now is to satisfy our sexual desires. You¡¯re still Dn¡¯s father and the man who hurt me. The man who deceived me. The man who didn¡¯t trust me enough to tell me his secret. The man who broke my already fragile heart. So yes, this moment of passion won¡¯t change a thing.¡±


    Robert instantly stilled.


    The look of lust and desire in his eyes vanished, reced by pain. Hurt. Anguish. Well, good for him.


    Tightening his grip on my hip, he opened his mouth to say something, but I cut him off before he could start.


    ¡°You know what? Everything¡¯s fine. It¡¯s alright, and that¡¯s because I will make sure you pay.¡±


    His eyes widenedically. ¡°Wait a minute, what?¡±


    ¡°Just wait and see. Now that that¡¯s settled, will you shut up and fuck me already so we can get this whole thing over and done with?¡± I demanded, pressing harder against him, feeling all the pent-up emotions inside me explode in a rush.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± That was all he said, and in seconds he was dragging me away from the wall and mming me onto the office desk nearby.


    I heard some items tter as they fell to the floor, and the next thing I knew, I was being straddled by a very impatient, very aroused Robert.


    Fiery anger and passion swirled in the depths of his ocean-blue eyes as he stared darkly at me, creating an intense and electrifying atmosphere between us that felt magical. Except it wasn¡¯t.


    ¡°Are you ready for me, Renee?¡± He asked, his voice husky. He ran his fingers along my bare thighs-he¡¯d ripped off my skirt during our tumbles, and now I was half-naked in front of him.


    ¡°Pffft, as if you don¡¯t know I am. You want to fuck me, and I¡¯m giving you the go-ahead. So be quick before I change my mind.¡± I huffed, and he smirked.


    ¡°You know¡­¡± He started, his fingers tugging at my panty strings as he swiftly removed thecy material, ¡°I like this rebellious side of you. But at the same time, I enjoy being able to transform you into a submissive little girl and then having my way with you.¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t get too cocky about it.¡± I huffed, but he didn¡¯t respond.


    Instead, I watched as he swiftly unbuttoned his crisp white shirt-his suit jacket already on the floor-and sank to his knees, his face positioned directly between my legs.


    My cheeks warmed with color as I watched him lean forward and suck on my clit.


    His tongue started top hungrily at my folds. His fingers traced circles, swirling around my clit, and instinctively my hips bucked uncontrobly.


    Fuck! I wanted more. More heightened sensation. More friction. More Robert. More of everything, and¡­ I saw stars when his tongue pressed down just where he knew I¡¯d go crazy.


    With a sharp gasp escaping my lips, I screamed his name.


    ¡°Robert!¡± My voice echoed throughout the office. His lips slipped away from my clit, and I blinked, dumbfounded.


    He slowly rose before me, and my lips parted in shock. I took in his chaotic yet hot as fuck, disheveled appearance.


    His lips were dripping with saliva and my arousal. His hair was roughed up from my tousling and his jeans, already unbuckled, hung low on his thighs.


    His erection was visible, pointing directly at me, and Robert gave me a deliciously wicked look.


    Clenching my thighs instinctively, I closed my legs even tighter, but Robert wouldn¡¯t have it.


    Taking a step closer to me until his thick shaft poked at my naked stomach, he roughly parted my thighs. He warned, ¡°I¡¯m going to fuck you hard now, Renee. You¡¯ll barely be unable to walk when I¡¯m done.¡±


    ¡°Ro-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been weeks since I¡¯ve had my fill of you. Don¡¯t even think I¡¯ll be lenient with you today.¡±


    His tone was stern and harsh, and yet his words were sexy. So friggin¡¯ sexy. And with every little nudge, his throbbing shaft pressed harder against my skin, forcing me to moan loudly.


    ¡°Shit, fuck!¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I think it¡¯s time.¡± He grunted, and in one swift motion, Robert flipped me onto my stomach, and grabbing both of my wrists tightly, he pulled them across my back.


    ¡°Oh, God.¡± I moaned as I felt his dick slide slowly inside my already wet pussy. I closed my eyes briefly, overwhelmed by the sensations.


    In seconds though, my eyes snapped open.


    What the?! Robert was about to fuck me-RAW! Without a condom, and I did not want that. Especially not right now. Not with everything going on between us.


    I couldn¡¯t risk getting¡­ He started to pull out slowly, and I used that opportunity to voice my disapproval.


    ¡°No, Robert. No.¡± I begged, my whole body twisting. His back stiffened at my refusal.


    ¡°Baby girl, what¡¯s wrong?¡± He growled low, but then, much to my chagrin, I felt him push back inside me.


    ¡°Protection. Condom! You need to use a condom.¡± I told him matter-of-factly.


    ¡°Yeah. I don¡¯t have any.¡± He said after a brief pause, making me gasp in surprise.


    ¡°Wait a minute, what? You don¡¯t have any contraceptives in your office? Why? And-¡±


    ¡°Are you going to let me fuck you now, or what, Renee? I¡¯m throbbing in pain, and I might pass out if I don¡¯t bury myself deep inside you right now.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t let you fuck me without a condom.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m sorry, Renee. I don¡¯t have any here, and to be honest, even if I did have one, I wouldn¡¯t use it.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Because I want to experience the raw sensation of sliding inside you, all bare and naked, baby girl. I¡¯ve only had the pleasure of doing that once-the day at the boutique, and I¡¯ve dreamed of it ever since.¡±


    ¡°But this¡­ this is not good. I might-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll pull out, I promise. But for now, keep quiet and let me fuck you!¡±


    He growled. Without waiting for a response, Robert swiftly buried himself to the hilt inside my pussy. Then fucked me mercilessly.

 A Future With Renee

    ROBERT


    I slid unapologetically inside Renee, pushing myself into the heated core of her pussy. Each thrust felt like heaven and better than thest.


    With her hands syed across the office desk and her back to me, she looked so fucking stunning from behind. Like every man¡¯s wet and erotic fantasy rolled into one breathtaking package.


    Her strawberry blonde hair fell down her back in an elegant silk curtain brushing against her bare shoulders, and her skin shined with a healthy glow as her peach-shaped ass swayed in time with my thrusts.


    ¡°Oh, Robert¡­¡± As I pushed deeper into her, she moaned, and the sound of my name on her lips made me shiver. The sweet, soft-spoken word, said so sensually, made my chest ache, and my pulsing dick twitched even more.


    ¡°Yes, baby girl?¡±


    ¡°Fuck me¡­ fuck me harder, Robert.¡±


    ¡°Oh really?¡± I asked, abruptly slowing my pace. She let out a muffled whimper of disappointment as I pulled out from inside her hot, wet folds.


    She craned her neck such that her dark brown eyes stared back at me. I watched desire and want burn in the dark depths.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± She asked impatiently, arching her hip and grinding on my freed cock. ¡°Why did you-¡±


    Not letting her finish, I mmed back into her with such force the desk beneath us shook, and she yelled out in despair.


    ¡°Robert!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Daddy to you.¡± I growled, digging my fingers painfully into the skin of her thighs.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­¡±


    Thrust.


    ¡°Daddy¡­¡±


    Thrust.


    ¡°To¡­You!¡±


    Thrust.


    ¡°Now say it!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Daddy!¡± She wailed, her voice breaking in pleasured pain.


    She arched her hips, meeting me thrust for thrust. She continued screaming. Her cries were shrill and desperate-sounds I felt deep in my soul.


    ¡°Fuck me harder, Daddy. Harder and faster.¡± She urged, yelling. And I did as she requested.


    Increasing my pace, I drove into her with an animal fierceness that shook even me. I fucked her with the passion of a beast, and my left hand went to her bare ass cheek. I pped it so hard, leaving red welt marks on the soft white flesh.


    ¡°Arghhhh, Ro¡­ Daddy!¡± Renee screamed her pleasure, and my eyes screwed shut; I fought the urge to release inside her while I rammed her folds.


    Her sweet little pussy mping around my cock, she screamed and sobbed out her orgasmic bliss in such a way that I knew it wouldn¡¯t take long for her toe.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I cursed, my fingers snaking between her legs as I searched for her clit.


    Her sweet heat pulsed under my touch, and the smell of her arousal filled my nose as I quickly found the small, engorged bud. With my fingers circling it gently, I massaged the wet sensitive flesh and stroked it faster until her climax finally came.


    Wet spurts gushed and exploded around my fingers as her body shuddered uncontrobly from her release, sending ripples across my cock¡¯s length.


    Her muscles tensed around my cock, pulling and squeezing with each convulsive jerk of her body. Gasping, Renee threw her head backward and cried out loud.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Daddy. Oh, please¡­¡± Her words slurred together, and her eyes fluttered shut as her breathing became steady.


    ¡°Fuck! Renee¡­¡± I grunted and gritted my teeth, struggling to hold on a little longer.


    The desire to explode and pour my seed into her grew more potent and built higher like a crescendo.


    ¡°You¡¯re so fucking tight. So fucking mine!¡± I growled once more as I pumped hard and fast into her tight channel, jackhammering toward a desperate climax-my sixth sense instantly leaving me.


    ¡°I¡­ Robert, you¡¯re going toe soon, and¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ yes, baby girl. That¡¯s right. Arghhhhh.¡±


    ¡°Remember to pull out.¡±


    ¡°Oh, that?¡± I said sarcastically, grunting.


    ¡°Yes. That!¡± She eximed, gasping. ¡°Robert, pull out. Pull out before¡­ before¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to pull out, Renee. You feel so good right now. I want toe¡­ in you.¡±


    ¡°But you promised.¡± She half-yelled, her body twisting. She tried to turn around to face me, but she failed miserably as my hands were wrapped tightly around her thighs, holding her in ce.


    ¡°I know. Fuck, I did promise. But you¡¯re so tight. I don¡¯t want to pull out.¡±


    ¡°No, Robert!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll take some protection pills, Renee. Either when you get home, or I can have someone get them for after we finish.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s better you-¡± She started to say something, but I cut her off by cing my still-wet, dripping fingers in her mouth. ¡°Mmmm¡­¡± She moaned in delight for a split second, tasting the salty juices of our coupling.¡±You¡­ you know this isn¡¯t what I want, right?¡± She asked, her voice muffled.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, baby girl. I can¡¯t stop. Fuck!¡± I grunted hoarsely, and at the same time, my pulsing cock gushed inside her, releasing stream after stream of cum.


    God! This felt so good-the best feeling in the world. As I rode off my wave of ecstasy, a shudder went through my entire body.


    No one-nothingpared to how I felt when I was with Renee. Not my previous sexcapades and flings with other women. None of them elicited such sensations from me. None at all.


    And now, as her sweet little body trembled beneath mine, her breathing in short, sharp breaths, I knew without a doubt that she was mine forever.


    I belonged here. With her. In her. And God¡­ what would it be like to spend every day of my life making love to my perfect woman?


    Oh, what it would be like to watch her smile,ugh, cry, and moan as I gradually coaxed pleasure from her. Every time, everywhere, in every ce. Oh, fuck! Renee was my drug. A crack I couldn¡¯t get enough of. She was everything and more.


    So I made an oath to myself.


    Coming down from my sex-infused high, I muttered silently, ¡°Renee Michael¡­ I adore you-more than anything in the entire damn world. I love you more than life itself, and I won¡¯t stop until I have you forever. I¡¯m not going to stop until I marry you. Not until I have you exactly where I want you. This, I promise.¡±


    A smile curved on my lips as I kissed the side of her neck. Pulling back, I let my dick fall limply out from between her slick folds.


    Copsing onto the chair behind me, I heaved slowly, my gaze intently watching Renee, wondering what she¡¯d do next, as silence befell us.


    I stared at her immobile body, her pearly ass still facing me. Her skin was flushed and hot, and her hair, now matted with sweat, had some strands stuck to the side of her face as she trembled.


    Slowly, she turned to face me, and the tension in the room rose to new heights as our gazes locked.


    ¡°Renee-¡± I began to say something, hoping to diffuse the brewing after angry sex awkwardness, but she beat me to it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± That was all she said before picking up her clothes, strewn about haphazardly. ¡°Does this office have a restroom?¡±


    ¡°You can clean up in front of me, Renee. There¡¯s nothing to hide.¡± I smirked, and she shot me a re.


    ¡°Fine.¡± I huffed. ¡°Of course, my office has an en-suite restroom. Just by your right.¡± I nodded my head toward a door situated next to the window.


    ¡°Great.¡± She scoffed, walking away, and once again, I watched, astounded, as her lithe, sexy half-naked body moved gracefully around therge office.


    Her breasts bounced, and her bottom sensuously swayed. Every move she made appeared deliberate and oh-so-sexy.


    Renee walked as if she owned the world-the entire office, the air around her, and even the floor beneath her feet. Like a predator stalking its prey-she was my prey-and I couldn¡¯t take my gaze away from her.


    Not until she finally disappeared into the bathroom did I rx slightly.


    Taking a deep breath, I stood up and arranged myself. Zipping up, I grabbed my clothes and put on my dress shirt and suit jacket.


    No sooner had I finished did Renee walk out of the bathroom, looking so out of ce but still beautiful in her baggy clothes. For a second, the look had me gurgling back fits ofughter.


    ¡°What?¡± She asked, her dark brow furrowed.


    Iughed and shook my head. ¡°Nothing. You¡¯re leaving? Aren¡¯t you hungry?¡±


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± She blinked, her lips curling dangerously.


    ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s have lunch together. After what we just did, we both need some food and-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving, Robert.¡± She interjected, cutting me off as she continued. ¡°Right now!¡±


    ¡°Why so soon?¡±


    ¡°My pills! I need to go home and take them.¡±


    ¡°Chill. What¡¯s the rush? It¡¯s not like I have an STD or something. Renee, I¡¯m clean. Every month, I check myself and-¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not the issue. Stop acting as if you don¡¯t understand why I¡¯m being this way.¡±


    ¡°What? Please¡­ enlighten me. I honestly have no idea.¡± I said tly, and the frown on her face deepened.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want your cum in me.¡± She blurted out. ¡°To be frank, I don¡¯t want to get pregnant. There. You have it.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± I replied softly, a little stunned by the revtion.


    I knew she¡¯d try to be cautious about getting pregnant, but hearing her say it out loud, without remorse, hurt. So, so bad. Like a stab to the chest.


    Renee didn¡¯t want to carry my child. She didn¡¯t want anything to bind her to me indefinitely. She didn¡¯t¡­


    Oh,e on, man. You¡¯re overthinking things. She¡¯s being cautious, as you said earlier. My inner voice mocked me, and while he wasn¡¯t entirely wrong, her tant deration still stung.


    The prospect of a future with Renee made me happy. It gave me so much hope; I¡¯d imagined it a million times.


    Even now, as she stood a few feet away, I was picturing her pregnant and waddling around with a swollen belly.


    The image made me smile. I wondered if she¡¯d have a baby girl first. A chubby minion who¡¯d look exactly like her. Or would she have a baby boy? I-¡±


    ¡°Robert? Did you hear me?¡±


    ¡°Um, yes¡­¡± As I snapped out of my thoughts, I asked, ¡°You still want to leave right now?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°All right. I¡¯ll drive you home.¡± I stated tly, reaching for my cell phone on the desk.


    ¡°Stay. I can go home myself. Just so you know-what happened between us earlier¡­¡± She trailed off, nervously averting my gaze as she spoke. ¡°It won¡¯t happen again. I haven¡¯t forgiven you, nor will I. As for the restaurant, I¡¯m still thinking about it.¡±


    Iughed softly. ¡°Whatever you decide, Renee, I won¡¯t argue with you. I still have you under my thumb, and that¡¯s more than enough for me.¡±


    ¡°Under your thumb?¡± She snorted in amusement. ¡°I¡¯ve never been under anyone¡¯s thumb, let alone yours.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say. You¡¯re not leaving my office alone, though. I¡¯m taking you home.¡± I finished curtly, my tone soft but firm.


    ¡°No, I-¡± She began, but I ignored her, and swiping at my cell phone, I quickly called my secretary.


    Picking on the first ring, her smooth voice soon came through. ¡°Good day, Mr. rke.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving the office. Cancel all my appointments for the day, and instruct my driver to bring the jeep out front. I¡¯ll drive myself, and he should as well-¡±


    ¡°Out front? Do you mean in front of the building?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Is that a problem?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ I¡­ yes, sir.¡± She stammered.


    I asked, ¡°What is the issue?¡±


    ¡°Journalists, and reporters, and¡­¡±


    ¡°The paparazzi?¡±


    ¡°Yes. They¡¯re camped outside the building, sir. I¡¯m not sure who told them of Miss Renee¡¯s arrival, but they keep asking about her. All the security efforts in keeping them at bay seem futile.¡±


    ¡°Shit!¡± I hissed, mming my fist on my desk in frustration. Renee gasped.


    ¡°Is everything okay?¡± She asked, worry in her voice. I raised my finger, asking that she remain silent. Then I gave out some orders to my secretary before ending the call.


    ¡°They¡¯re here. The damned paparazzi.¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute, what? Oh my God. Shit! Shit!¡± Renee cursed, then asked, ¡°How did they get here? How did they even see me, despite my disguise and¡­.¡±


    ¡°One of my employees must have tipped them-the sleaze. The things humans do for money. Oh, I¡¯m so going to deal with them when I get back.¡±


    ¡°Fuck! I shouldn¡¯t havee. I had a feeling something like this would happen, and-¡± She was about to start a panicked rant, so I gently interrupted her.


    ¡°Easy there, baby girl. Easy. If anything, I¡¯m d you came. I got to spend some time with you, despite how we started on the wrong foot.¡± I winked, and when I saw her eyes roll at me, I gave her a cheeky smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re insufferable. And annoying.¡±


    My grin widened, and I took a step closer to her. ¡°I know. And you know it too. I¡¯m an annoying, persistent jerk. That¡¯s why I won¡¯t let you off the hook so easily. I won¡¯t let you go. I¡¯ll keep pushing and fighting for our love till the end.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please¡­¡± She scoffed, rolling her eyes, and looking away, biting her bottom lip so my half-erect dick twitched in my suit pants.


    Oh well¡­ The fucking effect this woman had on me.


    I shook my head, trying to gather my thoughts, ¡°About the paparazzi. Don¡¯t panic. We¡¯ll sort it out.¡±


    ¡°We? Do you mean you and me?


    ¡°Yeah. Us.¡±


    ¡°How? We have no choice but to stay here office all day until they go. Those attention seekers won¡¯t leave until they bombard us with questions.¡±


    ¡°Even though staying in the office until dusk sounds appealing, I say we give them what they want.¡±


    ¡°And that is?¡±


    ¡°A good show. We¡¯re going to meet them and stand tall.¡±


    ¡°Are you serious right now? Do you realize how insane that sounds?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind. You want to go home, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Then this is your only option.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ Us being pictured together isn¡¯t a good thing, Robert. You can¡¯t possibly mean¡­.¡± She paused the second she felt my hands on her wrist. I pulled her toward me, moving straight to the door.


    ¡°Robert, please let me go!¡± She yelled angrily, attempting to break free from my grip. But I held firm.


    As we walked out of my office and into the main hallway of the building, I noticed the curious stares and amused expressions of my employees when their gazes diverted to a still struggling Renee. My girl¡¯s eyes narrowed in anger. Her cheeks flushed red, and her lips curled in frustration.


    From the transparent ss doors, I spotted a swarm of reporters camped outside. The sight of them triggered a surge of rage within me. I suppressed it by gently gritting my teeth.


    ¡°This is not a good idea, Robert. We should return¡­¡± Renee muttered, her voice shaking, but I ignored her.


    Pushing the door and striding toward them confidently, I held Renee close to me protectively while ring furiously and threateningly.


    My re did not deter them though, and they pounced on us- shing their cameras and asking questions.


    ¡°Are you back together with Miss Micheal, Mr. rke?¡±


    ¡°Are you still involved with your son¡¯s girlfriend?¡±


    ¡°Is it true you¡¯ll be marrying her soon?¡±


    ¡°What about your ex-wife? Is it true that you severed all ties with your child¡¯s mother because of Miss Micheal?¡±


    I resisted the urge to respond as best as I could. Squeezing Renee¡¯s wrist, I shot her a reassuring look, telling her I got this under control.


    I was making headway, and with the arrival of my hefty personal guards, the reporters began backing away, intimidated.


    With the reporters dispersing, I nced at Renee and saw a look of relief sh across her face, though beads of nervous sweat glistened all over her.


    ¡°I told you I¡¯d handle this. I wanted to give them a show and kiss you while they clicked away, but-¡±


    ¡°But, thankfully, you didn¡¯t.¡± She cut me off harshly, and I grinned.


    ¡°How about we get you home now?¡± I asked softly, drawing her closer, my arms around her waist. This time she didn¡¯t push me away.


    Instead, she snuggled deeper into my embrace, and the reciprocating gesture warmed my heart. This was so surreal. So strange. But I loved it.


    Her body felt warm to my touch.


    Pressing my lips softly to the side of her forehead, I began leading her toward my sleek ck SUV parked nearby.

 The Creepy Stranger

    RENEE


    ¡°I still can¡¯t believe you slept with Robert, Renee.¡± Nicole snickered for the umpteenth time. Her snide remarks echoing off every wall and corner of the room.


    ¡°Please, Nicole. Don¡¯t start.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Renee¡­¡± She purred before continuing. ¡°You went to his office to confront him about the restaurant, but he ended up fucking you. Way to go, Mr. Robert. I love me some a dirty-minded man.¡±


    ¡°Nicole don¡¯t gloat about this. And don¡¯t remind me of that mistake.¡± I groaned, burying my face in my hands.


    ¡°Mistake?¡±


    ¡°Yes. It was a mistake. Something that happened out of the blue and¡­¡±


    ¡°And then what? Come on, girl. I know you wanted it.¡± Nicole snickered.


    ¡°How? Why would you say that?¡± I shot back defensively, raising my head to face her fully.


    ¡°Because that look of massive sexual satisfaction is written all over you, bitch. You are positively glowing tonight. Since I got home from work, and you told me about your hot angry sex with your sugar daddy, you¡¯ve been floating!¡± Nicole smirked, and no matter how badly I wanted to call her bluff, I couldn¡¯t deny that she was right.


    I was glowing.


    The dusty moonlight streamed through the window, highlighting the light pink flush on my cheeks. At the same time, my thighs ached in an unexpectedly pleasant way. The sting of my earlier sexcapade with Robert wasn¡¯t fading in the slightest.


    I was acutely aware of how much I enjoyed the feel of Robert¡¯s fingers stroking my skin and having him inside me.


    Sighing, my shoulders slumped as I closed my eyes to fight off the embarrassment brewing. I repeated stubbornly. ¡°What happened today was a mistake.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say. I¡¯m not going to tease you anymore. But, if it makes you feel any better, how many times did you orgasm?¡± Nicole winked, wiggling her brows suggestively, and I blushed even more.


    ¡°Just cut it, Nicole. I¡¯m saying nothing.¡±


    ¡°Where did he fuck you? On the office desk? Or the wall? The balcony? Overlooking all those skyscrapers and tall buildings?¡± Nicoleughed, and I gave her a nasty look. ¡°Mistake or not, what matters is that you enjoyed it. If the opportunity presents itself again, you¡¯ll open your legs and let him have his way. That¡¯s how far gone you are with this man, Renee, no matter how hard you try to deny it.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t. What happened today won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    ¡°Really? What does this mean for your rtionship, then? Are you guys back together or what?¡±


    ¡°What? No!¡± I eximed sharply.


    ¡°The photos I saw say otherwise.¡±


    ¡°What photos?¡±


    ¡°Paparazzi. You and Robert walked hand in hand, going to his car. Your head was on his shoulder, and you seemed to be having an intimate conversation.¡± Flipping through her phone, Nicole held it up for me, but I refused to look.


    ¡°Those pictures don¡¯t mean anything, Nicole. Robert and I aren¡¯t back together, and we never will be. And, I haven¡¯t epted the restaurant and-¡±


    The shrill ring of Nicole¡¯s cell phone stopped me mid-sentence.


    Excusing herself for a minute, she answered sharply, muttering one-word responses to whoever was on the other end. When she hung up, there was a mischievous smirk on her lips.


    ¡°Who was that?¡± I asked.


    My best friend squealed, dering, ¡°That was my date for tonight.¡±


    ¡°Your date?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you forgot.¡±


    ¡°Forgot what?¡±


    ¡°I have a date tonight with that handsome hunk I met at the gym a few days ago. I told you, and you agreed to tag along as a third wheel.¡±


    ¡°Oh boy¡­ I remember now. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be tagging along anymore.¡± I sighed, and Nicole shot me daggers.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood to go clubbing right now, Nicole. I have a lot on my te, and-¡±


    ¡°And I know why you don¡¯t want to go.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°You still feel loyal to Robert. Coming with me to the club involves loosening up and having a good time. It means you¡¯re open to meeting new people, and you don¡¯t want that, right? And Robert will be furious if-¡±


    ¡°Robert and I are over, Nicole! I don¡¯t give a damn what he thinks.¡±


    ¡°Thene with me to the club. Let¡¯s have a good time. After all, you¡¯ve been cooped up in this apartment for too long. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s high time you had some fun?¡±


    ¡°Alright. Fine. I¡¯lle with you,¡± I muttered after a few seconds of internal deliberation.


    Would letting loose and having fun with my best friend hurt? Besides, I still felt haughty about what happened between Robert and me, and I needed some distraction. Going to the club with Nicole and her plus one would be a good distraction.


    Even if my mind and body were screaming no!


    Nicole, smiling triumphantly and patting my shoulders, cut through my thoughts and said, ¡°Good. That¡¯s my girl. Get up, and let¡¯s get dressed. We¡¯ve got a long night ahead of us.¡±


    ~~


    An hourter, we arrived at the nightclub, an elegant building in the heart of downtown Ondo.


    The exterior looked inviting from the outside, with golden ss windows and sleek metal walls reflecting a beautiful mixture of blue and gold.


    However, things were very different on the inside. The floors were carpeted in burgundy, and hard rock music yed throughout the lobby.


    Large chandeliers adorned the ceiling, and lights illuminated the crowd and their dancing bodies.


    A long corridor stretched out in front of us, leading to the center of the building and a pair of double doors guarded by armed guards.


    This ce was upscale. Very posh. A part of me was excited to finally get out of the apartment for the night-away from the constant reminders of Robert.


    But another part of me was worried that I¡¯d lose control and do something stupid or inappropriate if I drank. And Nicole liked to drink.


    I rarely drank alcohol except on rare asions, and tonight was one of those asions.


    ¡°Greetings and wee to Club La Paloma. What would you like to drink,dies?¡± A masculine voice snapped me out of my reverie, and after blinking twice, I noticed we¡¯de to a halt in front of a highly ornate quartz bar countertop.


    ¡°Some hot shot tequ for thedies and a ss of Irish whiskey for me, please.¡± Bruce, Nicole¡¯s date, spoke to the bartender, who gave us a cheeky smile and then replied, ¡°Very well, sir. Coming right up.¡±


    I turned away from Nicole and her date when they got too handsy. My gaze roved relentlessly around the building, taking in every detail of the people at the club.


    Men in high-end tailored suits crowded the dance floor, sipping cocktails, dancing, and shing with their female partners.


    The smell of cigarette smoke, sweat, and perfume lingered in the air, tingling my nostrils and making the hair on my arms stand on end.


    A sudden sh of what could only be a camera had me frozen in ce, and my heart thudded in my chest. Were the paparazzi here?


    Had some fanciful reporter recognized me? I wasn¡¯t in disguise, and my skimpy dress wasn¡¯t enough to fool anyone.


    My fear was quickly dispelled when I realized the shing lights wereing from strobe lights strategically ced throughout the room.


    ¡°Oh, good grief.¡± I muttered, relieved.


    ¡°Here¡¯s your drink, Renee. Bruce and I were going to the dance floor. Would you like to join us?¡± Nicole asked, grabbing my left arm and pulling me along before I could say anything.


    ¡°No, no. Nicole. This isn¡¯t¡­.¡± Before I could finish my sentence, Nicole had already yanked me onto the dance floor, dragging my unwilling body alongside hers toward the center of the crowd.


    A few minutester, I was thoroughly lost in the cacophony of the loud, fast tempo filling the dance floor.


    I moved to the heady sound music and tried to find my footing while I spun on my axis. Arms iling, I tried to enjoy the exhrating sensation coursing through my body.


    I was half drunk with an empty tequ ss and music pulsing in my ears. I felt invincible in my awesome imagery.


    This was a lot of fun. It was pure blissughing and dancing freely. Topletely forget everything that¡¯d happened in the previous few weeks, or even earlier today-the incident with Robert in his office and¡­ cringe.


    I could forget about everything here on the dance floor. Forget the anguish and hurt, the frustration and regret. Forget about a dark-haired man who gued my senses in the worst way possible.


    This man who wouldn¡¯t leave me alone, no matter how hard I tried to push him away and regardless of what I did. He just wouldn¡¯t let go.


    His persistence was both irritating and intriguing. So, as I thought about him, even when I¡¯d vowed not to, so many emotions swirled inside me.


    I¡­


    ¡°Hello, baby girl.¡± Someone whispered loudly in my ear as they pressed themselves against my back. ¡°I brought you something to drink. Your ss was empty.¡±


    I didn¡¯t respond at first. Instead, I grabbed the drink offered and poured the contents down my parched throat.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± I exhaled, my cheeks burning crimson red as I turned to face whoever they were. ¡°Mmmm¡­ thank¡­ you.¡± I stuttered, my lips curling into a smile as I looked up at the man before me.


    Dressed in all-ck attire, and blonde gelled hair slicked back, he looked handsome but in a creepy, eerie way.


    ¡°Did you enjoy the drink?¡± He asked, smirking and arching his brow. He stepped closer to me until he was pressed against my body.


    Feeling his presence this close sent shockwaves across my skin, causing a strange and unsettling sensation to run through my spine, knocking me off bnce. However, I quickly recovered.


    ¡°Yes. I did. It has a sweet vor and¡­ what¡¯s the name?¡± I half-yelled this time because the sting music was too loud to talk.


    ¡°Passionfruit. A nice drink for a lovelydy like you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, right.¡± I shrugged, taking a step back, but before I could move further, he grabbed my waist and yanked me against his body.


    ¡°Hey. What are you doing?¡± I yelled angrily, attempting to pull away. But I was no match for him, and he gripped me tightly, refusing to let go.


    ¡°You liked my drink, and I think I deserve a better thank you, don¡¯t I?¡± His words wereced with arrogance, malice, and a dangerous implication that sent shivers down my spine.


    My head was also beginning to spin and hurt a little, but I maintained my stance.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already expressed my gratitude. Now, if you¡¯ll excuse me, I need¡­.¡±


    ¡°Not so fast, girl. I¡¯ve been watching you since you walked into the club. Now that I have you, you¡¯re not going anywhere.¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute, what? No! You leave me alone! Nicole!¡± I yelled, my terrified eyes darting around as I searched for my best friend. She was nowhere to be found.


    ¡°Looking for your friend?¡± He snickered, darklyughing as he continued. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but you may have lost her. Last I saw, she was making out with her date in a dark corner. Sorry to burst your bubble, sweetheart, but you¡¯re all by yourself.¡±


    Fear coursed down my spine. He was right.


    I was alone. Nobody was here to help me-no one to save me except myself.


    I was aware of how vulnerable I was. Fear took control of my mind, and I waspelled to flee. I needed to get as far away as possible. This man was evil and the hands clutching me became tighter and tighter.


    I could try shouting for help. Maybe I could draw the attention of the bouncers and¡­I took another look around.


    Nobody seemed to be paying attention to me. They focused on their vices-dancing, drinking, and having a good time.


    They didn¡¯t notice the tall, muscr man with an evil glint in his eyes looming over a terrified young woman.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    I decided it would be better if I fought him. I needed to stand up for myself and take action.


    I screamed for help as I struggled furiously against him. I continued to push and kick him with my foot as hard as I could.


    ¡°Help! Help!¡± I tried to project my voice over the music.


    ¡°You¡¯re fighting back now? Well, that¡¯s great. I like it! I love fierydies. I¡¯m sure this is how you¡¯ll be in bed while I have my way with you.¡± Heughed as he tightened his grip and began to drag me away.


    ¡°Let me go. You¡¯re hurting me!¡±


    ¡°Not at all, slut. You¡¯ll think twice next time before dressing like a whore or taking drinks from a stranger. The drug should be working by now, dammit.¡±


    ¡°Huh? What drugs?¡± I asked as I felt a sharp, splitting pain in my skull.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, baby girl. I¡¯ve got you.¡±


    ¡°Did you put something in my drink?¡± All the color left my face as realization hit on me. ¡°What did you do to me? What¡¯s-¡±


    My vision suddenly became even blurrier, making it impossible to walk straight.


    I wanted to fight him more, to resist his advances, to put an end to what he had nned for me. But he was stronger than I thought, and he knew it.


    With my shoulders slumped and every ounce of strength gone, I gave up fighting and waited for the dizziness to pass.


    Helplessly and in despair, I let him take me.


    Was he taking me out of the club? Or to the restroom? Or to a private section and¡­ With the drug in my body, I couldn¡¯t tell what was happening anymore. Everything was a blurred mess of colors, sounds, and shapes.


    The only constant thing in my vision was his hand, which gripped mine even tighter than before¡­


    ¡°Let go of my woman!¡±


    A familiar voice echoed through, breaking my consciousness apart and shattering everyst inch of my sanity.


    It couldn¡¯t be, I told myself. But it was.


    I tried to turn around in the hope of catching a glimpse of him, but my captor refused to let me go. Instead, he elerated his pace, dragging me along.


    ¡°I said, let her go!¡± The familiar voice shouted from behind me, and this time there was a loud crash, and something heavy hit me square on the head.


    My legs gave out from under me, my eyes spun wildly, and everything went ck.

 A Knight In Shining Armor

    ROBERT


    My heart was pounding in my chest as I swerved through the congested streets. My car roared down the road at breakneck speed.


    I was pissed. My mind raced with rage as I reyed the events leading my outrage.


    Some motherfuckerid his slimy hands on Renee. On my woman! At a nightclub.


    This was the only information I got from my man following Renee.


    With the threat of paparazzi and reporters watching her every move, I¡¯d hired a bodyguard for her.


    Someone to protect her without her knowing about it. Someone who would keep an eye on her from afar and ensure no one hurt or molested her in public.


    His only job was to protect her and keep her safe from the type of scumbags intent on stalking and harassing her. All because they wanted to take some itty bitty paparazzo photos that would fetch them money.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    So far Harry, the bodyguard, had barely given me a report. Renee rarely left her house, except for the visit to my office earlier today. She spent most of her time locked up in her small apartment building.


    However, tonight she¡¯d made an exception. And when Harry called to tell me she was being assaulted, I didn¡¯t hesitate. I got in my car and sped in her direction.


    And my mind racing, I¡¯d asked Harry several questions.


    Which club? What happened to her? Who the hell was the motherfucker? Where had hee from? Did he do anything inappropriate?


    ording to Harry, Renee had arrived at the club with Nicole and another guy, presumably Nicole¡¯s date. Halfway through drinks, she¡¯d been approached by a creep. He¡¯d given her a drink, forcefully tried to dance with her, and when she didn¡¯t budge, he decided to go rough on her.


    My blood was boiling as I reyed Harry¡¯s report in my head repeatedly. And now, as I increased my speed, ignition revving, I couldn¡¯t wait to get my hands on that bastard.


    My jaw throbbed from my grinding teeth, and my fists clenched tightly. I could feel myself losing control of my emotions. Fuck!


    A few secondster, my car came to a screeching halt outside the club.


    With an angry snarl I sent a quick text to Harry, informing him of my arrival. I threw open the car door, jumped out, and stormed into the building.


    Bright neon club lights shed through the windows. I scanned the crowded area for a glimpse of Renee¡¯s strawberry blonde or Nicole¡¯s raven-colored hair, but they were nowhere to be found.


    A text message chimed on my phone, and I nced at it.


    It was from Harry.


    Harry: I¡¯ve spotted you, boss. Look to the left, near the VIP section. The creep¡¯s dragging Miss Renee toward another exit door.


    Me: Okay. I¡¯m on my way.


    I quickly texted back and shoved my phone into my pocket. I looked around, trying to pinpoint where Harry said he¡¯d seen her.


    Finally, I saw it-that sh of familiar strawberry blonde I¡¯d recognize anywhere, even in the dimmest of lighting-just behind the VIP section.


    I spotted the hair first, then I saw her. I saw them.


    From anyone¡¯s point of view, it would seem that Renee was willingly following him, but I knew better.


    Even though I couldn¡¯t see her face clearly, I saw her distressed stumbles and sways as she followed the motherfucker obliviously.


    She wasn¡¯t resisting, which meant she was inebriated. Her arms iled uselessly, and her mouth was slightly ajar. She was wobbling like a toddler.


    I clenched my teeth in rage, watching the jerk guide her to the exit.


    Stomach knotting tight and blood boiling in my guts, I strode forward.


    My rage gave way to determination, and I pushed through the crowd of sweaty bodies until I was right next to them.


    ¡°Let go of my woman!¡± Amidst the thumping music, I yelled as loud as my angry voice could carry.


    Turning to face me, the scumbag smirked, and then he dragged Renee away, his pace quickening. That¡¯s when I lost it.


    ¡°I said, let her go!¡± I yelled, my voice loud enough such that it elicited murmurs and gasps from people nearby.


    Suddenly the creep came to a halt, his grip on Renee slipping, and she tumbled forward.


    ¡°No!¡± I screamed as I watched her fall. But it was toote.


    Renee crashed into a nearby table, and ss bottles were shattered as they fell everywhere. Tables collided, knocking over chairs and spilling alcohol all over the floor.


    People screamed and shouted as they scrambled to escape the chaos brewing, and I cursed inwardly.


    ¡°Renee. Baby girl.¡± I rushed to her prone body, kneeling and pulling her into my arms. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Her eyes were closed, and blood oozed from a cut just above her left cheek.


    A few strands of hair clung to her wet face, sticking to her cheek and nose. I gently swiped at the blonde tresses.


    ¡°Can you hear me, Renee?¡± My fingers pressed against the cut on her cheek as I continued smoothing her hair.


    ¡°Hmmmmm¡­¡± She mumbled, her eyes closed. ¡°Rob¡­ Is that you, Robert?¡± Her voice was raspy, and my heart lurched.


    ¡°Yes, baby. It¡¯s me. Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so. I¡­ I¡­¡± She stammered, her words slurred, and her eyelids blinked rapidly.


    ¡°What happened? Can you tell me something? Anything?¡± I asked softly, and she coughed before responding.


    ¡°Yes¡­ I¡­ Nicole and I were together. Then she went to a corner with her date, and then I met him. He gave me a drink. A drugged drink and¡­¡±


    ¡°A drugged drink? He fucking spiked your drink?¡± As I drew her closer, my hand tightened around her shoulder.


    ¡°Mmmm¡­¡± My anger red as she nodded slowly. ¡°He told me he did. A few seconds after I drank it, I started feeling dizzy and couldn¡¯t even¡­¡±


    ¡°Fuck, Renee!¡± I interrupted her before she could finish. ¡°Why would you ept drinks from a stranger? How could you be so gullible? So naive?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m sorry. I don¡¯t know what came over me and¡­¡± She whimpered, her eyes fluttering open, and I noticed how ssy and dull they were.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Everything will be fine. I¡¯m here now.¡± I cooed softly, reassuring her.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Nicole? Have you seen her? How did you know where I was? Who¡­¡±


    Despite how tired and worn out she appeared, she fired question after question without pausing to catch her breath, making me smile.


    ¡°Inquisitive much?¡± I chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ll look for Nicoleter and talk to her, but let¡¯s focus on you for now.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡±


    ¡°I came to save you¡­¡± I began, voice shaking. ¡°Like the knight in shining armor that I am.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Robert. How heroic  of you.¡± She mumbled, weakly smiling at me. My heart warmed instantly, and my rage dissipated.


    ¡°I¡¯d do anything for you.¡± I whispered, and she giggled cheekily.


    ¡°I know, and that¡¯s why¡­ that¡¯s why I love you. That¡¯s why I can¡¯t stay mad at you, even when I want to.¡±


    ¡°By tomorrow morning, you¡¯ll deny saying that.¡± I scoffed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t hurt anyone, though.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Stuttering, her eyes still blinking, Renee said, ¡°I know¡­ know¡­ what you¡¯re capable of, Ro¡­ Robert.¡±


    ¡°Any man who tries to harm you will face my wrath. Any man who touches my property will be taught a lesson he¡¯ll never forget,¡± I vowed to her and myself.


    ¡°Robert! I¡¯m¡­ I am not your property.¡± She slurred, her jaw dropping as if she wanted to continue but couldn¡¯t.


    ¡°Boss?¡±


    I looked up to see Harry hovering above me, his face expressionless as he waited for me to say something.


    ¡°Thank God you arrived just in time. Where is the motherfucker?¡± I asked.


    My bodyguard smirked. ¡°He¡¯s over there with the club¡¯s security. They¡¯re refusing to let him leave as I instructed. I also called the cops. They should arrive soon.¡±


    ¡°Nice. But before the cops arrive, I want to talk to him.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean, boss?¡±


    I ignored his question. ¡°Take Renee to my car and get her some mineral water.¡±


    Standing up, I handed a now-passed-out Renee over to Harry and nced around until I spotted the creep.


    With my nostrils red and fire dancing in my eyes, I stormed forward, interrupting his conversation with the club¡¯s security officials.


    ¡°Permit me, if I may.¡± I began,ing to a halt in front of the jerk, my fists clenched tightly in anticipation.


    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m sorry. I never intended to-¡± The scumbag started to defend himself. I didn¡¯t let him finish when my right fist shot out solidly and connected with his nose.


    I watched the motherfucker fall to the floor in a daze, bones crunching beneath my knuckles. As his head whipped sideways, an evil smirk curled my lips.


    Chaos erupted. I heard rms ring through the building, but I didn¡¯t stop.


    Even though my hand stung, the satisfaction washed away the pain, and the smirk on my lips widened even more; I bent slightly and gripped the motherfucker by the cor.


    This bastard deserved everything I was about to give him.


    He¡¯d tampered with my property in an inexcusable manner, and now he¡¯d have to bear the consequences of his actions. He¡¯d pay the price, and brutally.

 Robert’s Intense Love

    RENEE


    The first thing I felt when I woke up was a splitting headache and a nausea in my stomach.


    As I rolled over, my head felt like it¡¯d crack open, like when I was drunk or hungover.


    The mattress underneath me was smooth, the nkets cool on my skin. I raised my arms at the same time stretching my legs. Blinking back sleep from my eyes, I took a quick look around. Where was I?


    Neither the room nor the bed I was resting in belonged to me. On the other hand, the decor was vaguely familiar, and it didn¡¯t take long for me to figure out where I was.


    Robert¡¯s suite. But how? Why? When? I began to question myself, and suddenly memories ofst night rushed back into my mind like torrents pouring upstream.


    I went to the club with Nicole and her date. We were having such fun, and then she left me alone on the dance floor. I met a handsome, though creepy, stranger who¡¯d given me a drink. Then Robert was there out of nowhere, and my mind went nk.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I cursed as I pushed myself out of bed and sat up straight.


    My head spun wildly, and another wave of nausea washed over me, and I almost puked. As I tried to bnce myself, I grasped the bed frame behind me for support.


    Taking a deep breath, I pushed myself out of bed, wobbling as I sought my bnce. My whole body ached, and I felt weak, even feverish, but still, I was clearheaded enough to stand.


    Thankfully, I wasn¡¯t naked. When Robert brought me herest night, he must have undressed me and thrown me into one of his oversized T-shirts before putting me to bed.


    The clothing had a faint smell of him-like leather and cologne. I basked in the heavy aroma for a split second before pulling myself out of my reverie.


    There were too many questions swimming around in my head, not just aboutst night but this morning.


    Where was Robert? Why wasn¡¯t he here with me? I asked myself, then I heard the sound of rushing water from somewhere-the bathroom.


    Robert was bathing, which exined why I was alone.


    ¡°Oh shit!¡± I murmured as a wave of nausea hit me again for the umpteenth time, and I stumbled.


    Looking around the dimly lit room, I noticed my gown from the night before on the floor and a table with arge food tray on it, and my stomach grumbled as if on cue.


    Ignoring my hunger pangs and studying the room, my eyes kept wandering until they stopped on something peculiar.


    A strange object covered in ck material sat on the table¡¯s edge.


    What in the world was that? Curiosity got the better of me, and I cautiously approached the strange object.


    I removed the ck fabric covering the object and gasped, my breath seizing in my throat.


    Photo frames with images of me.


    Staring back at me were pictures of me at work, at home, in Robert¡¯s suite, and elsewhere. If I counted correctly, there were about ten frames.


    The photos were discreetly taken, primarily shots of me unaware of the camera. They were from different angles, some with us together and others without context.


    They looked expensive, and the sides of each frame were lined with gold and silver embellishments, glittering brightly.


    Why? Why did Robert do this?


    So many questions rushed through my mind as I stared at the images. My hands froze on one in particr.


    I smiled, gingerly lifting it for a closer look, and my eyes watered.


    It was a close-up of the two of us. My palm rested on Robert¡¯s cheeks, and we leaned close, beaming at each other.


    His left arm was protectively draped across my shoulder, and my right hand delicately sped his forearm.


    My heart swelled in my chest as we beamed at the camera, our faces overflowing with love and pleasure.


    I touched the photo, my fingers tracing lightly across Robert¡¯s face as warmth surged through me.


    He was stunning. Literal perfection in almost every way. And this particr photograph?Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    It was everything and¡­


    When I heard a familiar voice call out my name from behind, I dropped the frame with a tiny shriek, and my heart leaped into my throat.


    ¡°Renee. You¡¯re awake.¡±


    ¡°Robert.¡±


    His husky tone sent a shiver down my spine, and I could feel his warm presence standing directly behind me.


    Turning slowly, I noticed him casually leaning against the wall, peering at me with intense blue eyes.


    My eyes flickered downward, and I sucked in a deep breath.


    Robert was half naked, save for a pair of dark shorts. His broad chest was bare, and his dark hair, still moist from the shower, fell in waves over his shoulders-brushing across his belly covered by chiseled muscles and well-defined abs.


    This man was attractive, I knew that, but somehow at this moment, his features looked¡­ dangerous.


    His eyes still held that intense look from before, but now there was something else in his gaze too. Something akin to lust, and my thighs clenched in response.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I hissed as a splitting ache shot to my head.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a headache.¡± The pounding became more intense, and I forced my eyes shut.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± Robert stepped nearer and reached out to touch me, but I recoiled.


    Turning hastily away from him, instinct taking over, I muttered, raising a shaky hand. ¡°No! Please don¡¯t touch me. Don¡¯t evene near me.¡± I finished firmly, and Robert froze.


    ¡°What am I doing here? In your suite?¡± I demanded, unable to control the harsh tone of voice.


    ¡°Oh, shit, here we go again.¡±


    ¡°Why do you also have framed portraits of my photographs? What¡¯s going on, Robert?¡±


    ¡°Oh, that¡­¡± As he looked at the frames on the table, he smiled. ¡°It was supposed to be a surprise. I wanted to use them as decoration for our mansion. Coincidentally they were deliveredst night. They¡¯re lovely, aren¡¯t they?¡±


    On a normal day, I¡¯d have been delighted to hear this, but right now, I felt quite the opposite.


    A massive weight settled in my stomach, and I took a few wobbly steps back, attempting to put some distance between us.


    ¡°What happenedst night?¡± I asked, my voice wavering.


    ¡°You don¡¯t remember?¡±


    ¡°I do. I¡­ I do-just bits and pieces. I recall being with Nicole, then seeing a stranger and you appearing out of nowhere. How did you know I was at the club?¡±


    ¡°Your bodyguard alerted me of the danger you were in. He texted me the address and¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute! My bodyguard?¡± I blinked, perplexed. ¡°Are you having me watched?¡±


    ¡°I am. Please don¡¯t make a fuss about it, Renee. I¡¯m always watching you because I can¡¯t afford anything bad to happen to you. With Dn, my ex-wife, and the paparazzi all around, you¡¯re still a victim of their vices and-¡±


    ¡°What the hell!¡± I cut in with surprise, staring at him, confused.


    My head still hurt, but that didn¡¯t stop me from yelling violently.


    ¡°Robert, I¡¯m not a fucking puppet. I¡¯m perfectly capable of looking after myself.¡±


    ¡°Of course, you are.¡± He remarked sarcastically. ¡°Last night was great proof of how able you are.¡± He finished with a scoff.


    ¡°Seriously.¡± I red at him. ¡°You know how much I despise someone quietly watching or stalking me from a distance. This is what you did the first time, and it put a strain on our rtionship back then. I-¡±


    ¡°Why I stalked you back then and why I¡¯m having you watched now are two different things, two different situations. They have nothing inmon. So, please-¡±


    ¡°Please, what? Oh, for God¡¯s sake!¡± I eximed. ¡°I thought you¡¯d learned your lesson, but you didn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Renee, calm down. Can¡¯t you see why I¡¯m doing these things? Don¡¯t you understand why?¡±


    ¡°What could possibly be a good reason?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m concerned about you. I realize our rtionship is still on unstable footing, and we¡¯re no longer together, but I¡¯m terrified for your safety. Everything and-¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re invading my private space. Why would you have someone watching over me like a creep?¡±


    ¡°Renee!¡±


    ¡°All these days, I¡¯ve barely left my apartment, was this man watching over me then?¡±


    The silence between us was heavy and dense, and it wasn¡¯t long before Robert let out a loud grunt, running his hand through his hair in frustration. ¡°Yes, he was.¡±


    I swallowed hard, my eyes burning slightly. ¡°God. I¡¯m so done with this. I¡¯m ready to go home. I simply can¡¯t-¡±


    ¡°Renee.¡±


    ¡°Howe you didn¡¯t leave me with Nicolest night?¡±


    ¡°Because¡­ you asked.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°You refused to follow Nicole and said something about being safe with me. Of course, you can¡¯t remember anything.¡± He chuckled dryly and took hesitant strides toward me as he talked.


    ¡°I was drunk. You know I wasn¡¯t thinking straight. You-that guy, he gave me something and-¡± I paused as an unexpected memory shed through my mind, and I gasped. ¡°What did you do to him?¡±


    ¡°Nothing major. I didn¡¯t do much. Renee, you need to rest and-¡±


    ¡°What did you do to him?¡± I repeated. ¡°Tell me what you did.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± He started but then halted as another brief silence fell over us.


    The way he hesitated, and his bodynguage abruptly changed told me all I needed to know.


    Robert had done something terrible. Maybe not so horrible, considering who he¡¯d done it to, but it was something I wouldn¡¯t like.


    I felt my throat constrict around a lump, and a chilly fear bit at my spine as I waited for him to speak.


    ¡°I¡¯m waiting, Robert.¡±


    ¡°Alright. I roughed him up and got him arrested for drugging you. That¡¯s all there is to it.¡± Robert exhaled deeply. ¡°Nothing more.¡±


    My knees weakened, and I took a step back, then another, until I stood by the foot of the bed, eyes darting around as I looked for my clothes. ¡°Godammit!¡±


    ¡°What are you doing, Renee? I-¡± He began, but I cut him off before he could finish. ¡°I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    ¡°Just like that?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I can¡¯t think straight.¡±


    ¡°Is this what I get for bringing you home and taking care of you?¡± He asked.


    I ignored him, ¡°Did we have sex?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Did we? I can¡¯t remember anything, and I feel so dirty and disoriented. I still regret what happened in your office, and¡­¡±


    ¡°Goddamnit, Renee, you should know me better!¡± His voice sliced through my ramblings with a quick snap. ¡°I never touched you. I will never take advantage of you without your permission.¡±


    I tripped slightly as he continued speaking, although fiercely, with my mouth open in a whispered ¡®oh¡¯ of surprise.


    ¡°We may have our disagreements, but I¡¯m not that kind of man.¡±


    Robert was pissed. His face took on an icy expression that repulsed me. Worse, I could see the hurt in his eyes. I saw the pain swimming in those blue orbs, and I couldn¡¯t utter a word.


    His fury struck a deep chord within me, and I understood just how far I¡¯d gone by asking him if we¡¯d had sex.


    I hadn¡¯t considered what I was saying, blurting out whatever, and now I¡¯d hurt him.


    ¡°Oh, shit.¡± I softly huffed. ¡°I-¡±


    ¡°Someone wille pick you up and take you home.¡± Robert interrupted, his tone harsh and stern as he walked toward the door.


    ¡°Where¡­ where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I have a meeting. I need to get ready.¡±


    ¡°Robert, I-¡±


    ¡°Take care, Renee. Have a fabulous day.¡± His words rang hollow, echoing across the silent room, and then he was gone.


    The door mmed shut behind him, leaving me alone, surprised and dumbfounded.


    I slumped to the floor, knees buckling beneath me. A sob ripped through my entire body.


    I felt dirty. Stupid. Selfish.


    He never relented despite my repeated protests asserting that I didn¡¯t want to be with him. Robert had chosen to still guard and protect me from afar.


    Last night I¡¯d been so naive, and he¡¯d appeared just at the right time. He¡¯d rescued me and brought me home to his suite. He¡¯d soiled his hands and put someone behind bars because of me.


    He¡¯d done all these things for me, and I¡¯d expressed my gratitude byshing out at him and using him of horrible things.


    ¡°Oh God, what have I done?¡± I muttered inwardly as a tear fell down my cheek.


    I realized Robert would do anything for me. My heart throbbed painfully against my ribs. My throat tightened, and my breath quickened.


    This was how he cared for me. In an obsessive and possessive manner, that seemed almost dangerous, but it wasn¡¯t.


    It was love. A passionate, protective, yet strong love that came to life only for me.


    And I¡¯d fucking ruined it!

 Setting Records Straight

    RENEE


    ¡°I¡¯m worried, Nicole.¡±


    Nicole raised her brows and drew her gaze away from the TV screen. ¡°Huh? ¡°What about?¡±


    Pacing in front of my best friend, I ran my hand through my strawberry blonde hair, tugging at it to relieve some of my anxiety.


    I shook my head and stared at the floor, letting out a shakyugh. ¡°Who about, rather. It¡¯s Robert. I¡¯m worried about him.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Nicole¡¯s face softened, and she leaned forward from the couch she was sitting on, resting her elbows on her knees and sping her hands together.


    Her lips pursed as she watched me pace, and I could see her perplexity and concern deep in her chestnut-brown eyes.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Talk to me.¡±


    With a groan, I stopped and plopped my ass on the same couch as her. Wrapping my arms around myself forfort, I stared into space, attempting to gather my thoughts.


    ¡°It¡¯s been four days since I left his suite, and we haven¡¯t seen each other since. I haven¡¯t heard from him. No calls. No texts. No presents.¡±


    ¡°Okay, so?¡±


    ¡°This is out of character. I know things have been rough between us, but this is unlike Robert. I¡­¡± I trailed off, nervously chewing my lower lip as I tried to find the perfect words.


    Letting out a thoughtful hum, Nicole smiled softly. ¡°Perhaps he¡¯s giving you the space you need. You know, after the little argument you had after that guy¡­¡± She trailed off, and I just nodded.


    I understood what she was saying, and I tried to agree that, indeed, Robert was giving me space, but something inside of me felt uneasy. Something told me things had changed with him, all because of my selfishness and the horrible things I¡¯d said.


    My idiotic words-everything I¡¯d said that morning when we¡¯d argued about what happened at the bar, the bodyguards he¡¯d hired to keep an eye on me, and everything else-had changed everything.


    I vividly recalled the hurt on his face, the way he tightened his jaw and rushed out of the room after muttering some farewell¡­ It was as if I had broken him in half with my words, and all that remained was a shell.


    The pain that zed in those blue eyes when he walked away from me burned just as intensely now. My breathing became choppy just remembering.


    ¡°I¡­ this is more than just him giving me space, Nicole.¡± I paused. ¡°With my overbearing attitude, I think I may have pushed Robert away for good.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please, Renee.¡± Nicole sighed and rolled her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re just overthinking things.¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not!¡± I yelled.


    ¡°Yes, you are.¡± My best friend countered and continued. ¡°Maybe he¡¯s busy or something, but I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll get reach out to you soon. If there¡¯s one thing I know about Robert, it¡¯s that he loves you to the point of obsession, and you don¡¯t know half of it. It¡¯s clear how much he adores you from the way he looks at you. The way his face lights up when you¡¯re around, and the way he cares about you. So, rx, okay? Everything will be alright.¡± Nicole¡¯s voice softened, and she reached for my hand, squeezing it reassuringly.


    ¡°Yeah, I hope you¡¯re right.¡± I sighed, and she winked at me.


    ¡°Who knows, maybe he¡¯s nning something big for you. There could be a surprise on the way, and you¡¯d just be fussing over nothing.¡±


    Nicole¡¯s remarks brought a faint grin to my lips, and for a brief moment, I allowed myself to believe her.


    ¡°But Nicole, ourst goodbye. He looked hurt, and rightfully so. He was so rude and gruff.   Robert never does that. Even when-¡±


    ¡°Stop whining, Renee. You¡¯re reading too much into things. If you¡¯re that concerned, pick up the phone and call him. There¡¯s no harm in doing that, right?¡± Nicole suggested, and when I shrugged, she continued. ¡°Alright then, I¡¯d like to continue watching my movie. So, next, thank you.¡± She winked before returning her gaze to the television.


    Slowly, I pulled myself to my feet and walked toward the bedroom, my heart heavy with doubt.


    I¡¯d barely moved a step when Nicole gasped, halting my movement.


    Her wide eyes were fixed on the television screen. ¡°What the hell!¡±


    I dragged my gaze to the TV screen to see what¡¯d caught her attention.


    And lo and behold, staring back at me was none other than Robert rke.


    I froze in ce instantly.


    He was on TV, seated next to a stunning brte news anchor or a host of whatever this show was.


    They were smiling and talking, but all I could see was Robert.


    Long, straightshes rested on his cheekbones, framing his crystal blue eyes and exquisite face. With his ever-so-small pout, his gorgeous, full, soft, and pink mouth parted gently.


    His hair was longer and carefully styled, and he wore a white button-down shirt, dark pants, a crimson tie, and ck boots. He looked rxed yet elegant and professional. And, damn, did it look nice on him.


    ¡°Renee, are you listening?¡± Nicole snapped, her voice bringing me back to reality. I refocused my eyes, and I saw her looking at me expectantly.


    ¡°Huh? Yes, I am.¡±


    ¡°Are you, though? Did you read the headline?¡±


    ¡°What headline?¡±


    She pointed to the bottom right corner of the screen, and that¡¯s when I saw it. The fucking headline.


    Billionaire Robert rke Discusses His Love Life, Personal Affairs, & Business.


    ¡°No way!¡± I whispered, my feet shaky as I walked across the living room to turn up the TV volume.


    ¡°Tell me this is a joke.¡± I giggled nervously, returning my attention to the TV, where Robert and the news anchor were having a casual discussion.


    ¡°Mr. rke is here today to set the record right on several unfounded stories about his personal life that have been floating about.¡± When she finished, I had a horrible feeling in my gut.


    I knew what this was about. I knew where this interview was going, and judging by Nicole¡¯s expression, she did too.


    ¡°He¡¯s going to talk about you, Renee.¡± Nicole spoke quietly, stating the obvious. As if on cue, Robert began speaking in his powerful voice and the sound from the TV reverberated around the apartment.


    ¡°First and foremost, these scandalous stories being circted are false and unsubstantiated. This is my personal life. I¡¯m not too fond of the notion of it being broadcasted publicly. But I know I have to set things straight.¡¯


    ¡°You should.¡± The anchor cut in, making me cringe. ¡°Everyone would like to hear your side of the story.¡±


    Robert chuckled, clearing his throat and momentarily looking back at the camera. ¡°Exactly, and as you¡¯ve already gathered, Miss Michael is the only woman in my life right now.¡±


    He paused before continuing. ¡°I love her, and she¡¯s made me so happy. She¡¯s the most important person in my life.¡±


    ¡°Oh, how sweet.¡± The anchor teased.


    ¡°It is.¡± Robert replied with a slight chuckle. ¡°She¡¯s like my soulmate, the one I meette in life. We didn¡¯t know each other when we first met. I can promise you that all these stories circting about how she purposely dated my son and then me are lies. Although I don¡¯t want to talk about it, there¡¯s a reason she¡¯s my son¡¯s ex, and she always will be-no pun intended.¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes.¡± The anchor grinned, and Robert continued.


    ¡°I know it¡¯s absurd, but love can happen in the weirdest circumstances.


    ¡°Yes. Ipletely agree with you. Love can be hard work. All shades of messy andplicated.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely, you get it. It can be the best thing to ever happen to someone also. For me, I¡¯m content with Renee, and I adore her so much. She lights up my world in ways I can¡¯t describe. She¡¯s my world.¡±


    His soulmate.


    His world. Damn!


    Shocked and stunned into silence by what Robert said, I blinked hard to stop the tears from welling in my eyes, but to no avail. They fell, leaving zing hot trails as his words sank in.


    A sob escaped me.


    ¡°Renee.¡± Nicole muttered something under her breath, her voice tinged with apprehension. ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    Swallowing my tears down, I shook my head frantically as numerous thoughts assaulted me.


    My God, this man loved me!


    Even though our connection was broken and forbidden, he still adored me. Despite the shambles we¡¯ve both made, the hurtful things we¡¯ve said to one other, and all of the pain and heartache that came with it.


    Robert still loved me.


    It echoed in my head as I fought against the emotions threatening to overflow. ¡°God¡­¡± I grumbled under my breath, my gaze stuck to the television screen, unable to look away from him.


    He sat motionless, talking excitedly with the news anchor, his grin never fading.


    ¡°How could I have thought I could leave him? How? Just how? Fuck, Robert. I love you so much. I love you.¡± I whispered the words out loud, my voice trembling and my chest constricted.


    And I meant it. Deep, soul-wrenching honest feelings surged through me, and I now understood that I needed Robert more than ever. I wanted him and was done pushing him away.


    ¡°Mr. rke, you¡¯re a bonafide lover boy. How sweet!¡± The anchor¡¯s voice cut through my thoughts, jolting me out of my reverie.


    Robert shook his head shyly, his grin widening. ¡°Sure, and I¡¯m not ashamed to say it. Before I forget, I have a message for the media-hungry reporters spreading the fake news about Renee and me.¡±


    ¡°Tell us, Mr. rke.¡± The anchor urged, leaning forward in her chair.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Before continuing, Robert expressed his gratitude. ¡®First and foremost, I¡¯d begin by letting everyone know that Renee is not a gold digger, as she¡¯s been portrayed. She doesn¡¯t deserve everything that¡¯s been thrown at her in public. Everything that happened with my ex-wife and son at that event was entirely my fault, and I bear full responsibility.¡±


    His voice softened, and I almost didn¡¯t hear his next words, despite how loud the TV¡¯s volume was. ¡°With that said, I respectfully request that the press and all others abstain from spreading negative information or talking trash about my rtionship with Renee. Please respect our privacy. No photos, tweets, interviews, or unwanted public harassment. If I find any, I¡¯ll be forced to do things the hard way. Please. For Renee¡¯s sake. Thank you very much.¡±


    ¡°That was one hell of a speech. But I only have one question for you.¡±


    ¡°Of course, go ahead.¡±


    ¡°Are you and Renee still together? Rumors are circting that you two were taking a break. But based on what you¡¯ve said, it sounds like you haven¡¯t stopped seeing each other. Is this correct?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm, sure. Regardless of what anyone says or thinks, we¡¯re still together. Renee will be by my side for a very long time. That woman has me hook, line, and sinker. The sooner everyone understands, the better.¡± Robert snickered, and the anchorughed briefly.


    ¡°You¡¯re so sweet, Mr. rke. Renee is extremely lucky to have you.¡±


    ¡°Why yes. I bet she is.¡± Robert said, this time winking directly at the camera, and color filled my cheeks.


    It felt like he was staring straight at me, and tingly thrills rushed down my spine.


    ¡°Thank you for taking the time to give us an exclusive report on the rumors regarding your private life.¡± The anchor said, and facing the camera, she announced. ¡°Apologies for the uingmercial break. When we return, we¡¯ll talk more about Mr. rke¡¯s recent exploits in the tech sector.¡±


    As soon as the anchor finished speaking, the TV screen went ck, and, as she¡¯d said, a nd foodmercial filled the screen.


    ¡°Wow, girl.¡± Nicole said with a gasp and a broad smile on her face. ¡°I knew Robert was nning something special for you. That man has squashed all the rumors about you.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I¡­ I have no idea what to say. All of this is beyond myprehension.¡± I stuttered, words failing me.


    Laughing, Nicole said. ¡°Of course, you can. For the record, the boyfriend of the year award goes to Robert rke. Or will I say, sugar daddy? Jeez!¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Boyfriend is putting it lightly.¡± I whispered under my breath and gave Nicole a defiant expression while retaining her stare.


    ¡°What¡¯s that look you¡¯ve got there, girl?¡± Nicole asked, her brow furrowed.


    I smirked. ¡°I¡¯m going to meet with him.¡±


    ¡°Robert?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Robert. I don¡¯t need him toe to me as he always does. I¡¯ll take the initiative. I¡¯m done ying games or allowing the paparazzi to follow me. I won¡¯t let my fears get the best of me. Dn and Amanda, or whatever her name was, are fucked. I¡¯m not going to let them spoil this beautiful rtionship.¡±


    Nicole gave a nod. ¡°Yes, go meet him. Go get your man.¡±


    ¡°I will. I already have something nned¡­¡± A warm smile lit up my cheeks.


    ¡°What n?¡± Nicole asked, her eyes mischievously glittering and amusement sparkling in her chestnut brown eyes.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯ll know soon enough because you¡¯ll be assisting me!¡±This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    A brightugh sprung from Nicole¡¯s lips, and pping her hands excitedly, she said, ¡°Well then, mydy, let¡¯s get started.¡±

 Renee’s Apology

    ROBERT


    Stepping inside my suite, a distinct aroma wafted through the air, instantly alerting me that something was amiss.


    I frowned and closed my eyes in the dim light, attempting to figure out what this was. I sniffed deeply, my nose twitching, and finally, it picked up on a hint of something spicy.


    The aroma seemed vaguely familiar, but not entirely, as I couldn¡¯t ce it. It smelled exotic and pleasant, making me wonder what it was.


    As the suite¡¯s electric door shut behind me with a ding, my eyes snapped open, and my heart thumped faster as the faint, but tantalizing smell intensified.


    Kicking off my shoes, my hands fumbled for the nearest light switch on the wall, and I bit back a gasp as the overhead lights turned on.


    ¡°Holy fuck!¡± My fingers trembled over the switch as I gaped at the sight before me.


    A trail of roses dotted the suite¡¯s floor, each trailing a different color as it fell from a ceiling light like an abstract art piece, their brilliant colors catching my eye.


    Everything looked so enchanting. Lit candles glowing in their scones on every surface, warming the room.


    Soft music, mellow and beautiful, drifted in from somewhere nearby. Gentle guitar strains were mixed with a deep, smooth voice that sang gently. The lovely tune had an otherworldly feel that sent chills down my spine.


    It was as if I¡¯d been taken into a dream or a more magical realm. Somece my brain could conceive of. It made me question what the hell was going on. Who¡¯d done this? And why?


    I had two guesses, and another chill ran through my body as I leaned toward the far more perilous thought.


    Amanda. That bitch. Was this another of her ruses? One of her intricate schemes to apologize and re-enter my life-not that I was letting her in.


    She had a lot of nerve for someone who hadn¡¯t talked to me in days and was suddenly doing this. No, it wasn¡¯t Amanda. That was ridiculous. This wasn¡¯t her style.


    Intrigued yet apprehensive, I followed the rose trail gingerly, my pulse racing in my chest.


    It led me to the suite¡¯s bedroom, and I stepped inside.


    That¡¯s when I noticed it and her, much to my astonishment.


    Scented candle sconces and more roses filled every surface in the bedroom. There she was, leaning over the bed, d in a silk robe with ckce overtones.


    Her strawberry blonde hair was mussed yet elegantly framing her face, and she was smiling her damn charming smile.


    My lips dried up seeing this stunning and enticing as fuck woman in front of me. My woman. My Renee.


    She¡¯d been my first guess before thoughts of Amanda had invaded my senses. I should¡¯ve known Renee was the only one capable of pulling this off.


    She had a keycard to my suite and knew I wouldn¡¯t object if she came in while I was still at work. As it appeared, she¡¯d decided to surprise me.


    Still, this felt strange, but a smile curled up my lips. Ourst argument had been so heated, and it didn¡¯t end well, with me abandoning Renee to her vices.


    We hadn¡¯t spoken since, and I didn¡¯t bother calling because I was giving her space. She needed time to understand herself and make sense of things.


    She had to cool off, clear her mind, and get over whatever reservations she had about me. So, I¡¯d given her that space, despite how difficult it was for me.


    Hell, I thought about Renee every second, and I couldn¡¯t count how many times I was tempted to pick up the phone and call or text her. I even considered sending more gifts to let her know I wasn¡¯t bothered by the argument and that she was still mine, regardless of what she believed. But I¡¯d kept myself back every damn time, and it¡¯d been sheer torture.


    Nheless, I was somewhat aback to discover this little surprise waiting for me, and my mind raced with questions about why she¡¯d nned this.


    I blinked, unable to believe what my eyes were staring at. However, everything was the same. Renee sat on the enormous bed, looking so lovely and seductive that it left me breathless.


    Inhaling deeply, I let out a muffled curse.


    ¡°Renee.¡± As I took another step into the room, my voice wavered, a mix of exhration and trepidation.


    Then she stood up from the bed with a cheeky glint in her eyes. She sauntered toward me, her arms crossed over her ample bosom, wiggling her body to the rhythm of her movements.


    Her bare feet delicately tapped against the rose petals sprinkled on the marble floor, and she walked with such elegance and grace that I was convinced I could spend the entire day watching her walk.


    As she strutted toward me, her hips swayed, and it was evident that she was purposefully doing this. Her every move was goddamn provocative, tempting me, and I couldn¡¯t take my eyes off her at all.


    And then she came to a halt directly in front of me, her arms falling down her bosoms as she reached out to caress my cheek.


    A mischievous smile yed across her full lips. Renee finally muttered something like-¡°Hello, baby.¡± Her voice dripped with seductive charm, and her ckshes batted flirtatiously at me.


    ¡°M-Renee¡­¡± I paused, swallowing. ¡°You¡¯re here. I mean, what are you doing here?¡±


    This question sounded stupid, I realized, but I had to ask.


    ¡°What am I doing here?¡± She countered with a mischievous tone of voice. ¡°I¡¯m not a visitor, or am I?¡±


    ¡°No, no, you¡¯re not.¡± I replied, a surge of emotions coursing through me. ¡°I¡¯m just surprised, that¡¯s all. And to what do I owe¡­¡± I gestured vaguely with my hands at the romantic disy thereabout. ¡°This?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Renee began, but then she was no longer in front of me, sidling behind my back.


    She was hovering behind me, her hands on my shoulders, removing my suit jacket. ¡°I wanted to see you.¡± Her breath tickled my ears as she murmured. ¡°I miss you. I missed waking up next to you. I missed talking to you, hearing your voice, and touching you.¡±


    ¡°Renee-¡±


    ¡°But, most importantly-¡± She interrupted me. ¡°I came here to apologize.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Robert. I¡¯m very sorry.¡± She spoke calmly, her words genuine. ¡°I really am. For pushing you away and letting my doubts get the best of me. Even when you repeatedly demonstrated your love for me in spectacr ways, I waspletely blind to it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not upset with you. Why would I be angry at my baby?¡±


    ¡°No, you are. Or you might not be anymore. I know you were angry that morning we argued here, in this bedroom. Myments, the things I said, hurt a lot. I saw the anger in your eyes right before you walked out on me. And damn, I knew I¡¯d screwed up big time. Then I saw your interview, and it just opened my¡­¡±


    ¡°You watched the interview?¡± Renee nodded as I chuckled, my brow furrowed in surprise.


    ¡°I did. Those things you said, and how real they seemed, struck a chord with me. You didn¡¯t mince your words, and for a second, I thought you were talking directly to me. Everything seemed unusual, yet so-fuck! I¡¯m at a loss for words, Robert, but I waspletely taken aback. You saying all those things in public, without caring about anyone¡¯s opinion, and simply showing the world how much you love me meant a lot. For real.¡±


    ¡°I did that interview to stop those media-hungry journalists out to get you.¡±


    ¡°Us, you mean?¡±


    ¡°No, you. The only thing that matters is you. I hated all those misconstrued and nasty narratives about you so damn much. Anytime I saw those headlines about us, and how they kept painting you in a bad light, I felt like tracking down whoever wrote the article and strangling the-¡±


    ¡°Robert!¡± She eximed,ughing at my outburst.


    ¡°I don¡¯t give a fuck about anyone. Only you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, though, and that is why I must apologize. I¡¯m sorry for everything. For my overbearing attitude, stringing you along, and allowing what others say influence our rtionship. I should¡¯ve realized that our world was only for us and not for them.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Renee.¡± I said softly, breaking up her ramble.


    Stretching out, I gripped her delicate wrists, ending her tense and fidgety movements.


    Squeezing gently, I said, ¡°It¡¯s fine. Sincerely, I¡¯m not angry anymore. Yes, I admit what you said that morning hurt a lot, but I¡¯m over it. No matter what you say or do, I can¡¯t stay upset with you for long. It may seem strange, and it is, but I¡¯m being truthful here.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Robert.¡± She murmured, her lips twitching. I knew she was about to cry, but I wasn¡¯t going to let her.


    ¡°Shhhh¡­¡± I cooed and brought both her hands to my lips, kissing them softly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, baby. I forgive you. If that¡¯s what you want to hear, then you have it. I¡¯m not mad at you, and I never will be, okay?¡±


    ¡°God, Robert. Yes, I wanted to hear those three magical words. To ease my guilt. Thank you so much. Thank you, thank you¡­¡± She trailed off, suddenly giggling and sniffing, and my heart warmed.


    I loved hearing thatugh.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She whispered.


    Pulling her hands away from my grip on her wrists, Renee crushed her body firmly against mine, putting her chin on my chest and wrapping her arms around my waist.


    Then she sniffed slightly and said something practically inaudible, but I heard it. Crisp and clear.


    ¡°I don¡¯t deserve you.¡±


    ¡°No, you do.¡± I spoke sharply. ¡°Every single inch of you deserves me. We deserve each other. Renee and Robert. Soulmates.¡±


    ¡°Soulmates.¡± She repeated with a content sigh. ¡°Always and forever, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Iid a delicate kiss on her head, my grin tugging the corners of my mouth upward. ¡°That¡¯s exactly what we are. You are my favorite thing in the universe, and I don¡¯t think I can go through life without you. Renee, I¡¯m dangerously in love with you. You have no idea.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I do. I do.¡± She chuckled and added, looking up at me. ¡°Do you know how hard it was for me toe up with something to make it up to you?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I thought so hard because I wanted to do something that would blow your mind.¡±


    ¡°Well, this did, and you know I won¡¯t lie to you. I was blown away, stunned, speechless, bbergasted, you name it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d it did, but damn. The roses and candles, though, I thought they were too feminine and¡­¡± She trailed off.


    ¡°You don¡¯t think men deserve flowers?¡±


    ¡°No, they do. You do.¡± Sheughed. ¡°But seriously, I was stuck. I kept telling Nicole that you had everything.¡±


    ¡°Do I?¡±


    ¡°Yes, you do.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not certain. There¡¯s one thing I still don¡¯t havepletely.¡± I took a moment to catch her gaze.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°You.¡± I murmured against her hair. ¡°I don¡¯t fully have you, Renee.¡±


    At first, there was silence between us, and I waited for Renee to say something, but she remained mute.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡±


    ¡°You have me. Completely and forever. Never doubt that I¡¯m all yours, Robert.¡±


    I felt a wave of relief and excitement flood over me. ¡°Fuck! Renee, I love you. So much. I want to tattoo you on my skin. Make you a part of myself, and-¡±


    ¡°Well, you can do that. Tattoo my name on your chest.¡±


    ¡°Then consider it done. Not necessarily your name, though, but something unique to you.¡±


    ¡°Hm, like what?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s a surprise. I¡¯ll show you when I do it.¡±


    Renee¡¯s eyes twinkled as she leaned back slightly, her stare fixed on mine. ¡°Are you serious, though?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am.¡± I grinned, squeezing her waist affectionately.


    Once again, we remained silent for a while. Arms around each other, looking into one another¡¯s eyes, rxing in this fantastic and tranquil moment.


    A melodious song wafted into the room, and I began rocking along to the beat when Renee said. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call or text me if you weren¡¯t angry at me anymore?¡±


    ¡°About that¡­¡± Iughed. ¡°I figured you needed space. And I was nning to visit you this weekend. Renee, I can¡¯t go long without seeing or talking to you. You¡¯re my lifeline. I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m saying this. God damn.¡±


    ¡°You are, indeed. And it¡¯s sweet.¡± She giggled and took a step away from me, so my hands on her waist fell away. ¡°I cooked dinner.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯ve also set up a table on the balcony of this suite. It¡¯s going to be a lovely evening. Come on.¡±


    With that, she drew me toward the balcony. As we moved, she talked about the exquisite massage she would give meter, which sounded terrific.


    However, that wasn¡¯t what I wanted right then. So, I stopped just before we reached the balcony, and she stopped walking too.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Robert?¡± Renee asked. In response, I twirled her around gently and kissed her tenderly.


    She soon rxed beneath me, her arms slipping around my neck, fingers tangled in my hair, as she gently pulled and twisted.


    When we eventually separated from the kiss, a naughty grin appeared on my face.


    ¡°While dinner sounds delightful-¡± I paused. ¡°There¡¯s something I want to savor first.¡±


    Her eyes glowed with curiosity. ¡°What¡¯s that? But what could be better than food? You¡¯re hungry right?¡± She asked, a teasing tone in her voice.


    ¡°I am, indeed. But¡­¡± I paused, moving close to her ears and murmuring, ¡°I want to savor you.¡±


    She let out a delightful squeal, attempting to free herself from my grip, but I held her tightly.


    In a swift motion, I lifted her off her feet and carried her in my arms. ¡°I won¡¯t let you escape, Renee. You¡¯re mine tonight.¡± I teased with a trace of longing in my voice.


    ¡°I won¡¯t even bother about the food I prepared.¡± She protested. ¡°But the massage oils and scent I got, what about them? I really wanted to use them on you.¡±


    A malicious glint sparkled in my eyes. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t you worry.¡± I assured her, a cheeky grin on my face. ¡°I¡¯ll find a great use for that. Trust me.¡±


    The anticipation was tremendous as I carried her toward the bedroom. As we disappeared into the candlelit chamber, I showered her with kisses, each kiss showing my love for her.


    At this moment, everything else was lost to me. Nothing existed except this woman, whose touch broughtfort, joy, and calm.


    Renee was my home and my future. She was everything.

 A Night Of Ectasy

    RENEE


    I couldn¡¯t sleep. Or, I tried not to.


    Not with Robert-this handsome hunk of a man-next to me in bed.


    I was scared that if I closed my eyes, he¡¯d vanish, and everything that¡¯d transpired tonight would be a figment of my imagination. I didn¡¯t want that, so I kept my eyes open.


    With slumber seeming far away from me and my gaze fixed on the ceiling, the memories of earlier came flooding back with bittersweet intensity.


    My lips turned in a faint smile as I remembered Robert¡¯s face when he saw me for the first time tonight.


    After giving him my heartfelt apologies, and we¡¯d reconciled, Robert took me to the bed where he made love to me over and over again until I was a trembling mess, and the multiple orgasms left me dazed, exhausted, and sore.


    Amidst our romantic interludes, he brought the dinner I¡¯d prepared to bed, and we ate thevish feast. Between meals and cuddles, he dropped tender kisses on my neck and shoulders, and we talked about everything and nothing.


    Later on, Robert decided to use the massage oils I brought. Stroking my body sensually, his strong hands had reawakened my sensual fire, and we¡¯d had sex once more. Mind-blowing sex. I didn¡¯t want it to end, but he fell asleep right after.


    And now, as I gazed at him, he was fully passed out, snoring softly.


    With his arms wrapped around me in a possessive grip-like he didn¡¯t want to let go-Robert looked so rxed. So still and at ease that my heart ached delightfully.


    His brows were smooth, and the wrinkles that asionally afflicted the depth of his eyes were gone, giving him a lovely, angelic appearance. His lips were drawn into a beautiful smile, making the rest of his handsome face even more appealing.


    Oh, my goodness, this man was mine! All mine. He was my soulmate. No one else could ever make me feel the way he did.


    Fingers trailing lightly down his tattooed chest in a gentle caress, I pondered how far we¡¯de and what we¡¯d ovee together.


    As love surged within me, oveing whatever misgivings I¡¯d had, I sighed and then mumbled, words tumbling out of me unbidden before I could stop myself.


    ¡°How did I ever think I could live without you?¡± I paused. ¡°Just how?¡±


    ¡°God, I¡¯m so sorry, Robert.¡± I continued my monologue despite knowing he was fast asleep and couldn¡¯t hear me. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for dragging this out and being so fucking stubborn. I despise myself for it. I do.¡± I finished with a sniff, unable to keep the tears from welling up at the back of my eyes.


    ¡°I¡­ I wish I could turn back the clock and undo all my mistakes. All the cruel things I said. I know you¡¯re not upset, but I still feel bad. I just¡­¡± My voice became choppy with emotion. ¡°God, I love you, Robert. More than you could ever imagine, and I¡¯ll do my best to show it from now on.¡±


    I pulled away gently from his grip and wiped the wet moisture from my face. I turned to check the bedside clock, my heart skipping a beat. It was already past midnight.


    Letting out another sigh and realizing how quickly time had passed, I turned to kiss Robert¡¯s forehead before leaving the bed. To my surprise, he was awake, and his eyes met mine.


    ¡°Rob¡­ Robert?¡± I called out, my voice carrying the weight of my astonishment.


    ¡°Surprise, surprise.¡± He teased, his tone lighthearted as he arched his brows at me.


    ¡°How long have you been awake?¡± I asked, ¡°Did you overhear me talking to myself? Were you lying awake the whole time? The snoring and¡­¡± I trailed off, a slight blush on my cheeks, and instead of responding, Robert just grinned, lowering his gaze.


    ¡°Renee, why aren¡¯t you sleeping?¡± He asked, his voice calm and serious, as he reached up to softly caress my hair.


    ¡°I¡­I¡­¡± I stammered at first before blurting out, ¡°I¡¯m feeling a little warm, and I¡¯d like to take a shower. A coo one.¡±Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    ¡°Oh.¡± He nodded in understanding. Then he smiled mischievously, a knowing twinkle up his lips. ¡°Mind if I join you?¡±


    ¡°What? No!¡± I chuckled, flicking myshes at him. ¡°If you came with me, I¡¯d never make it to the shower.¡±


    ¡°Now, wouldn¡¯t that be fun?¡± He said, reaching for me, but this time I evaded his grasp.


    ¡°As much as I¡¯m inclined to cave in, I¡¯m sticking to my guns. No way, Robert. Let me shower, and I¡¯ll return to keep youpany.¡±


    ¡°But what if I fall asleep again?¡± He asked, grinning.


    ¡°All the better. I¡¯m tired as well, and I could use a nap now.¡±


    ¡°You crazy thing.¡± Iughed as Robert tapped my ass.


    Squealing, I scrambled out of bed and headed straight to the restroom.


    Once inside, I leaned against the sink, let out a deep sigh, and quickly got to work cleaning myself.


    However, just as I was ready to rinse my toothbrush after brushing my teeth, I heard the bathroom door creak open and tensed instantly.


    Robert was here, despite my warning.


    ¡°Oh, jeez.¡± I mumbled, and before I could say anything else, I felt Robert¡¯srge hands gently caress my back.


    My nipples stiffened immediately, much to my chagrin, and my skin tingled beneath his touch. My knees weakened, and I almost moaned.


    Lips pressed into a thin line, I asked, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± He whispered and proceeded to kiss my neck. ¡°I grew bored of waiting and decided to visit you. At the very least, I can be useful by showering kisses on your shoulder and neck.¡±


    ¡°No, No.¡± I made a feeble protest. ¡°Return to the room. I need to shower.¡±


    ¡°I can wash you, you know. But first, I¡¯d have to make you so fucking filthy, then I¡¯ll only clean you up, and I know exactly how to d¡­¡± Robert trailed off, whispering the words in my ear, and his warm breath sent pleasurable thrills down my spine.


    ¡°God! No, Robert.¡± Despite sounding weak and my determination slipping, I shouted out.


    But Robert didn¡¯t budge. He was doing his thing. And with his hands all over my body, he yed with my nipples, gently tugging the firm bud while I moaned loudly.


    ¡°Oh, oh. Yes, yes-¡±


    ¡°Yes. That¡¯s it, baby girl. Give me that sexy moan.¡±


    ¡°No, no¡­¡± I tried to resist him, unsessfully. ¡°You¡¯ve had enough of me this tonight, Robert. We¡¯ve had sex four, five, or even more times than I can count, and I¡­.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t get enough of you, woman. Don¡¯t you see that?¡± Robert growled darkly.


    His pursed lips kissed my neck, and his fingers continued teasing my breast. Also, as if to further entuate his statements, he pushed himself firmly against me.


    ¡°Do you feel that?¡± He growled the question, pressing harder. ¡°Feel my erection, yeah?¡±


    ¡°Uh, uh.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s all for you. And you¡¯re going to take care of it for me. I¡¯m not leaving until I¡¯ve fucked you hard. Until I feel your pussy tightening and mping around my cock. Until your moan echoes through this soundproof bathroom and I make youe repeatedly.¡±


    ¡°Robert.¡±


    ¡°Daddy! For God¡¯s sake, call me Daddy. You know that shit turns me on.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°Say it. I¡¯d like to hear you say it.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Stubborn much?¡± He huffed and wrapped his right hand around my neck. ¡°I know you want my cock. You want me to fuck you. Your cunt is drenched and ready. Am I right?¡±


    ¡°No, you¡¯re not.¡± I lied.


    He was right, though. My pussy ached, and I was currently wet and dripping. My cunt desperately craved the sensation of his cock sliding in and out in an infinite cadence, but I refused to tell him that. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t want you to fuck me. I¡¯m not in the mood.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever lie to Daddy, baby girl.¡± Robert taunted, and to make matters worse, his fingers left my nipples and dropped to my clit.


    ¡°No, fuck!¡± When he came in contact with my pussy, I half-screamed, and he stroked me relentlessly. I could barely hold back my cries, and he loved hearing them.


    ¡°See? You¡¯re dripping wet and want my touch. How much would it cost you to admit that, huh?¡±


    His fingers moved quicker, aimlessly caressing. I began to see stars even while he was barely doing anything.


    ¡°Alright. I give up.¡±


    ¡°You give up?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡± I screamed, my nails pressing deep as I gripped the counter. ¡°Just fuck me up already.¡±


    Robert chuckled. ¡°What if I refuse?¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t I now?¡± He smirked and abruptly stopped stroking. He pulled away from me, and I whined in protest.


    ¡°Robert, don¡¯t do this. Don¡¯t y this game with me!¡±


    ¡°What game?¡±


    ¡°Oh, please.¡± I scoffed, spinning around to face him, arms crossed over my bare chest, as I stared him down. ¡°You¡¯d better finish what you started. You wanted to fuck me, so go ahead and do it.¡±


    At first, it looked like he would give in, but he shocked me. ¡°Well, I beg to differ.¡±


    ¡°Wait, what?¡±


    ¡°Remember how you didn¡¯t want to have sex right now? You insisted on my leaving you alone. So, there you have it. Your wish has been granted.¡± He made a mock show of kissing the air and then turned around to leave.


    The bastard. I cursed silently.


    ¡°You made me horny, and now you want to leave me unsatisfied? Seriously?¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say, baby. I¡¯ll be fast asleep when you¡¯re done with your shower.¡± He countered yfully, nearly halfway out of the bathroom.


    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll just take care of myself.¡±


    Robert stopped in his tracks. He turned around slowly, his eyes narrowed as they pierced mine.


    ¡°What did you just say?¡±


    I bit my bottom lip. ¡°I said¡­ I¡¯ll handle this myself since you don¡¯t want to.¡±


    As I spoke, my fingers slid down to my clit, rubbing the swelling nub, and a smirk spread across Robert¡¯s lips.


    Eyes burning with lust, he took predatory strides toward me and grabbed me by the hips.


    Swiftly turning me around so my back was stered against his bare front, our gazes met in the sink¡¯s mirror. Then he said, ¡°So, you think you can satisfy yourself, huh?¡±


    My breath hitched, but I didn¡¯t respond. I could only nod. Robert chuckled darkly, his hot breath fanning my hair.


    ¡°When will you learn, Renee? When?¡±


    ¡°I-¡±


    Robert cut me off abruptly, pushing my body forward, and my ass bumped against his bulging member.


    Then he roughly grabbed arge clump of my hair and forced my head downwards, making me hiss.


    ¡°Next time, you won¡¯t taunt me like that.¡± He grumbled. ¡°Now repeat after me. ¡®I¡¯m yours.''¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m yours.¡±


    ¡°Again!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m yours. I belong to you.¡±


    ¡°Good girl. And who am I to you? I want to hear you say it.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Who am I to you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­ you¡¯re¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m your Daddy!¡± He answered for me. As he let go of my hair, I felt his dick poke my entrance. He was ying with me, teasing me, sexually tormenting me.


    ¡°Come on! I want to hear you say it.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re my Daddy.¡± I replied hoarsely, my whole body trembling.


    ¡°And who are you to me?¡± He asked, his throat bobbing up and down.


    Tears of frustration welled in my eyes. As I caught his gaze in the mirror, I noticed the cruel glint in his eyes.


    ¡°What are you to me, baby girl?¡± Robert asked.


    ¡°I-I am your pet.¡±I replied sharply.


    ¡°Good girl.¡± He chimed, his left hand snaking around my neck as he spanked my ass. I yelled loudly-my screams echoing over the tile of the bathroom walls.


    Robert drove deep into my pussy after that. Hard. Deep. Fierce. He started fucking me hard.

 In Blood & In Kind!

    ¡®True evil is more attractive than anything else. But evil has many forms, and one of its most lethal oues is self-destruction.¡¯ John re.


    ~~


    AMANDA


    Ecstasy. Not the feeling. The taste. It shook me to my core.


    I lose track of time as I get lost in the experience of the heady narcotic I took earlier, paired with the sensation of this young man vigorously fucking me.


    He was so good to me, and despite his roughness, I didn¡¯t want him to stop. With every single thrust, he fucked me with a fervor unlike anything I¡¯d experienced in a long time. While I moaned halfheartedly, my entire body shook with pleasure.


    ¡°Do you want me toe inside you? Nut in you, and¡­¡± Tyson, the stranger, started to mutter against my neck, but I didn¡¯t let him finish.


    Instead, I drew his face closer and took his lips in mine.


    While I moaned loudly, he elerated, moving up and down and pumping his hips quicker and harder. Damn! I was spiraling out of control, not wanting this to end.


    His huge hands roamed all over my body, moving to my breast, rubbing and pinching my nipples till they stood upright.


    ¡°Ouch, Ty¡­¡± Iughed breathlessly, feeling lightheaded, and his only answer was a deep groan as his thrusts intensified. ¡°Oh, you naughty boy. Yes, yes, yes!¡± I screamed, clutching to him and shaking wildly, his cock pulsing as a wave of orgasm swept over me.


    Laying stiff, I gripped his hair as the bliss faded, leaving behind an empty nothingness that made me want more.


    I clung to him, groaning as he drew away, panting profusely. Kissing my temple while massaging my stomach tenderly with his hands, I heard him say, ¡°That was hot. No, you were hot. I¡¯ve never fucked a cougar before, and damn!¡± He eximed, a cheeky grin on his face.


    ¡°You were pretty good, too.¡± I replied honestly. I pulled myself together and returned his smile, a gesture he seemed to revel in because the next thing I knew, he was leaning in for another kiss, which I delightfully indulged in.


    ¡°Mmmmm¡­¡± I whimpered between our locked lips, my hands sinking into his hair again as the previous hour¡¯s events shed through my head.


    I¡¯d been having the time of my life at a bar, drinking and partying my concerns away. Then Tyson, my handsome one-night stand, came up behind me. We¡¯d ended up back in my hotel room, fucking like animals. The only precursor was a five-minute conversation, heavilyden with brazen flirting in between.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    This was nothing new because I fucked strangers virtually daily without blinking. But today? Tonight, actually, something was different. It felt different, and I couldn¡¯t ce my finger on it.


    All my senses were on heightened alert. Everything was more potent. And for inexplicable reasons, I felt euphoric.


    But I liked this feeling. It was fantastic!


    It appeared that this stranger-Tyson-was good for me.


    He was just what I needed, especially after such a hectic week of keeping eyes on Robert and his little bitch ex-girlfriend.


    ¡°How about we go for another round?¡± Tyson¡¯s voice pierced my thoughts.


    ¡°Um, as much as I want you to fuck me again, I need to get off this high. I-¡±


    ¡°Now, that¡¯d be a buzzkill, mama. Wouldn¡¯t it?¡± His tone was yful, but there was an undercurrent of disappointment.


    I started to say something while smiling and shaking my head, but a quick knock on the door cut me off. Before I could utter another word, the door swung open. Tyson and I jumped apart instantly.


    ¡°Mother?!¡± A familiar voice called out.


    A tremor coursed through me as I noticed who was standing at the door. It was Dn-my son. The expression he gave me was one of disdain and anger.


    ¡°Dy¡­ Dn?¡± I stammered anxiously. I scrambled to cover myself as I tried to regain some semnce ofposure. Though I knew it would do no good at the moment. It wasn¡¯t like I could hide what I was doing.


    Even if I managed to get fully dressed, my son had caught me in bed with someone half my age, and that wouldn¡¯t change.


    And, as if reading my mind, he said. ¡°Seriously, Mom? Even you?¡±


    ¡°Dn, don¡¯t.¡±  My lips trembled, and my hands shivered as I held the bedsheet tight across my chest.


    ¡°What¡¯s this fetish with young people with you and Dad? I¡¯m still trying to wrap my head around the fact that he¡¯s-¡±


    ¡°I said don¡¯t start! What are you doing here?¡± I snapped, abruptly cutting him off.


    I¡¯d already decided to disregard anything he had to say about my sex life. Butparing me to Robert? That I would not ept.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± I asked again. Dn said nothing right away. Instead, his gaze was drawn to Tyson, who had already risen from the bed. The two men exchanged frigid stares.


    The atmosphere was fraught. Silent. The air brewed with unspoken words, and all I could do was curse and swear in my mind.


    ¡°Dn¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, my God. I¡¯m so irritated.¡± He spat, his lips churning. ¡°You don¡¯t want me to bring it up, but really? I¡¯m not against you sleeping around, Mom, but do you have to fuck guys this young? He looks younger than me!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare talk to me like that!¡± My frustration turned into rage. ¡°I won¡¯t ask you again. What the hell are you doing here? And what gave you the gall to barge into my suite without knocking?¡±


    ¡°You told me toe to you if I had news about my father. You gave me a spare key and-¡±


    ¡°You have news l about your father?¡± I cut him off.


    ¡°Yes, I do.¡±


    ¡°What news?¡± My heart skipped a beat when I saw Dn¡¯s face turn pale.


    God. No. I wasn¡¯t going to like this. At all. Whatever he had to tell me was going to be dreadful. I felt it. I may not want to hear it, but I had to know. I had to find out. My curiosity got the best of me. ¡°Dn¡­¡±


    ¡°Have you seen the news since yesterday?¡±


    ¡°No. Why?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ I¡­ Father spoke about Renee. That bitch.¡±


    ¡°What did he say? Talk to me.¡± I urged him to speak, and he did.


    Dropping the bombshell, Dn spilled everything. Each word from his mouth felt like a punch to the stomach.


    My blood ran cold, and my entire body froze, bing stiff and motionless. I couldn¡¯t move an inch as I listened to Dn tell me everything. My face turned red, and my breathing came fast. He finished speaking, leaving me stunned. What did I just hear?


    ¡°It can¡¯t possibly be true.¡± I fakeughed, still unable to put it all together. Dn had to be ying some kind of joke on me. Or was he?¡±


    ¡°You think I¡¯m lying?¡± He scoffed. ¡°Check this.¡±


    He took out his phone, pressed the home button several times, and showed me the screen. It was a blog page, and the first news headline read, ¡°POPULAR BILLIONAIRE ROBERT CLARKE TALKS ABOUT HIS PERSONAL LIFE & BUSINESS.¡±


    ¡°What has this got to do with that filthy whore, Renee?¡± I gagged as a wave of nausea surged up my throat the second I said the bitch¡¯s name.


    ¡°Are you delusional?¡± Dn huffed and thrust the phone into my hands. ¡°Read the article. See what it says. And there¡¯s a video there, too. Watch that if you¡¯re still not convinced.¡±


    ¡°Video? What video?¡± I clutched the device with shaky hands as my gaze wandered over the article.


    ¡°A video of him confessing his feelings for her. It¡¯s there. Just scroll to the end of the article and click the link.¡±


    And so I did-scrolling down and tapping the link to y the video.


    When I saw it, my breath stuck in my throat. I felt horrible. I felt sick. Sick with disgust and hatred. For her.


    The video started with the camera focusing on Robert and a bubbly-looking news anchor-whoever she was. She asked him questions, beginning with business and progressing to personal matters. Bile rose in my throat for the umpteenth time when Robert started to talk about Renee.


    With a broad smile, he publicly dered his love for her and revealed they were working on getting back together.


    He spoke about how important she was to him and what they shared. He expressed how happy she made him and nned to love her unconditionally forever. He described her as both his soulmate and the bane of his existence. He said things about her that he¡¯d never told me when we were young and in love. Just hearing him talk about their fairytale romance broke my heart.


    ¡°No!¡± I yelled. This couldn¡¯t be happening after all my efforts to break them apart.


    There was no way they would¡¯ve made up in the blink of an eye. No way that bitch would go back to the father of her ex-boyfriend.


    ¡°No! No!¡± I screamed once more, and in a rage, I threw the phone against the wall. The shattering noise echoed throughout the room.


    ¡°Mother! My phone!¡± Dn screamed and lunged at the device, but it was toote.


    The damage had already been done, and I could only stare as he picked the metallic and ss pieces off the floor.


    I didn¡¯t even try to apologize for the mess I¡¯d made. Instead, I kept cursing Renee and gritting my teeth while my body shook uncontrobly.


    Tyson¡¯s anxious voice called out to me. As he approached, his hands reached out to grab my shoulders, but I flinched before he could.


    ¡°Don¡¯t! Please don¡¯te near me! What are you still doing here? Didn¡¯t you leave a while ago?¡± As I looked him up and down, I barked ferociously; my eyes narrowed into slits.


    ¡°Easy, Mami!¡± Tyson said. ¡°I want to know if you¡¯re okay and-¡±


    ¡°Leave! Get the hell out of my hotel room!¡±


    ¡°Woah! I¡¯ll leave, but you have to pay for the drugs I brought. You said that-¡±


    ¡°I said get lost! Leave before I call security.¡± I threatened him, and his eyes widened for a fraction of a second.


    Then he nodded, taking a hesitant step back with a painful expression on his face, his palms raised in faux surrender.


    Turning on his heel, Tyson packed up his things strewn about the room and hastily exited, closing the door behind him. As his footsteps echoed down the corridor, leaving only quiet, I finally released the pent-up rage in my chest and screamed.


    ¡°That fucking bitch has brought me to the end of my patience.¡± I muttered, my feet pacing around the room like a maniac. ¡°I should fucking murder her! Wipe her off the face of the, and¡­¡±


    ¡°Calm down, Mother.¡± Dn mumbled, taking a few steps toward me. ¡°Just rx, and let¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°No!¡± I clenched my hands as a loud growl escaped my throat. ¡°No! I won¡¯t be at ease until I¡¯ve destroyed Robert and Renee. I won¡¯t stop until I¡¯ve destroyed their life and taught them a brutal lesson.¡±


    ¡°Fine. But how about we leave Father out of this and concentrate on-¡± Dn began again, but I cut him off again.


    ¡°I don¡¯t give a damn about him! He should get a taste of his medicine. You can leave if you don¡¯t want to do this. But keep it in mind, we¡¯re talking about your leech of an ex-girlfriend here. Someone who¡¯s damaged your life and made you aughingstock with your friends. Someone who¡¯s caused you nothing but harm. Someone who¡¯s still with your father despite knowing who he is. She has no shame. No fucking respect.¡± I paused and looked my son in the eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t be a wimp. You only came to tell me about that interview because you were as irritated and angry as you knew I¡¯d be. If you weren¡¯t, you¡¯d have kept quiet. But you did. So get your fucking brain together and think!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m down with whatever you want to do to destroy Renee¡¯s life. But I¡¯m adamant we not wreck Father¡¯s life. He may have his issues, and I may not like him, but he¡¯s still part of our family.¡±


    ¡°A family he destroyed?¡± I scoffed.


    ¡°Mom, please. Rethink this.¡± Dn pleaded.


    A brief silence fell between us as I processed what he said. However, I wasn¡¯t fazed. With a sour grin, I shook my head in disbelief. ¡°You don¡¯t get it, do you? It would be best for you, Dn, if you didn¡¯t have any sympathy at all for that man. I have a scheme in the works. It¡¯s hazardous, but it¡¯ll wreck not only Renee¡¯s life but also Robert¡¯s. I guarantee you that I-¡±


    ¡°You have a n already?¡± Dn¡¯s eyes widened with surprise. I smirked.


    ¡°Of course I do. I came up with it a long time ago. Let¡¯s call it a contingency n. I had hoped she wouldn¡¯t do something stupid-like try to reconcile with your father-but she¡¯s gone and done it. She screwed up big time and¡¯ll pay terribly for it.¡± I chuckled bitterly, my voice dripping with hate.


    ¡°What is the n, Mother? I¡­¡± Dn began, but the harsh ring of my cell phone cut him off.


    I shifted my focus from my son to the device on the bed and, picking it up, looked down to see who was calling.


    There was no name. Just a number. One I didn¡¯t recognize.


    I was tempted to ignore the call, but I didn¡¯t. Curiosity got the best of me, and I swiped the answer button, cing the device against my ear.


    ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°Hello. Am I speaking to Mrs. rke?¡± A deep, male voice asked.


    ¡°Yes. May I inquire as to who this is?¡± I replied cautiously.


    ¡°My name is Gonzales Patrick.¡± He said calmly. ¡°Awyer representing Mr. rke.¡±


    I stiffened, and a tremendous shudder rushed down my spine. As thewyer continued to speak, I realized that answering this call out of curiosity was the stupidest decision I¡¯d made today.


    Robert had screwed me over in the worst manner possible. Again. I listened as thewyer went on and on talking about defamations, breach of trust, and awsuit, but I kept my cool. I wasn¡¯t fazed through all this. Why? Well, I was going to beat him at his own game.


    It didn¡¯t matter if, in the end, I won a court case. No. Instead, all my twisted, sadistic self wanted was for this foolish, lovesick duo to experience pain. Immense agony.


    Yes! This time, they¡¯d pay dearly. In Blood & In Kind!

 Sexy Detours

    ROBERT


    ¡°Where are you taking me?¡± Renee asked for the millionth time since I picked her up from her apartment building.


    ¡°It¡¯s a surprise, love.¡± I told her with a sly grin, sneaking a brief glimpse at her in my car¡¯s passenger seat.


    Sporting a ponytail, Renee was dressed in afy pair of trousers, a tank top, and tennis shoes with holes along the borders andces that could easily be ripped off. She looked adorable. Wrinkled brows ented her rosy skin and pink cheeks as she pouted at me.


    ¡°You¡¯re being secretive, Robert. You know how much I despise that.¡±


    ¡°Secretive?¡± I repeated, and she nodded. ¡°Darling, I¡¯m not keeping anything from you.¡±


    ¡°Of course you are. If you weren¡¯t, you¡¯d have told me everything about your talk with Nicole when you came to pick me up.¡± Her voice dropped an octave, bing more usatory, and I couldn¡¯t stop theughter bubbling out of my chest.


    I reached over the center console and took her hand in mine, bringing her knuckles to my lips and kissing her lightly. She red at the touching gesture.


    ¡°Ah, the Nicole gossip. It¡¯s nothing major. Just rx. If I revealed our destination, I¡¯d ruin the surprise. Where¡¯s the fun in that?¡± I asked in a low growl, my lips grazing her palm.


    I could feel her shiver and saw her bite her bottom lip as she considered what to say, wanting to persuade me otherwise. Minutester, she shook her head and released an aggravated sigh.


    Pressing another kiss on the velvety skin of her knuckles before releasing them, I whispered, ¡°Believe me, baby. I guarantee it¡¯ll be worthwhile.¡±


    She huffed, crossing her arms over her chest and turning away from me as I drove through the busy streets of downtown Ondo.


    ¡°What if I don¡¯t think this is worth my time? Robert, I don¡¯t want a surprise. Please, tell me. I¡¯m dying of curiosity! My hormones are out of control, and you¡¯re making it worse.¡±


    ¡°Apologies. But I¡¯m not saying anything, love. You are free to pout and huff all you want.¡± I intoned seriously and added, ¡°Be calm.¡±


    ¡°Well, I can¡¯t be calm. I¡¯ll guess if you don¡¯t want to tell me where we¡¯re going.¡±


    ¡°Damnit, woman.¡± I hissed through my teeth and tightened my hold on the steering wheel. ¡°Do you ever give up?¡±


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t. And now I¡¯ll guess and guess until you¡¯re forced to reveal this ndestine surprise you¡¯ve nned.¡±Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    ¡°Ugh, Renee.¡±


    She continued, ignoring me. ¡°Hm¡­¡± She paused. ¡°This road is familiar to me. I don¡¯t suppose you¡¯re taking me to dinner because we¡¯ve passed so many upscale restaurants.¡±


    ¡°Are you seriously doing this?¡± I demanded, and in the rearview mirror, I noticed her smirk.


    ¡°Of course I am.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re gonna be the death of me, Renee.¡±


    ¡°Well, if you spill your secret, I¡¯ll stop guessing.¡±


    ¡°No way.¡±


    ¡°Robert!¡± I grinned as she whined.


    ¡°I¡¯m not taking you out to dinner. We¡¯ve gone on so many food dates.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing somethingpletely different. Aside from that, going to a restaurant would draw the paparazzi, and we wouldn¡¯t have adequate privacy.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. And that¡¯s because we¡¯re the town¡¯s newest it couple.¡± Renee affirmed, giggling.


    ¡°Not that privacy is a problem, though. I could buy the entire restaurant for the night, and we¡¯d have it to ourselves.¡± I added, and she giggled even harder.


    ¡°However, as I said, I¡¯m doing something entirely different.¡± I smiled and returned my gaze to the mirror, making eye contact with her in the reflection.


    The streetlights beamed into the Jeep, highlighting a few strands of her strawberry blonde hair that fell into her eyes. Resisting the urge to reach over and tuck them behind her ear or smooth them away, I stared at her instead.


    The sight of her sitting in the seat beside me made my pulse thump against my ribs. I took in her full image-her face brightened with a soft grin and the faintest hint of blush growing across her paleplexion.


    My God, Renee was gorgeous. And every inch of this gorgeousness was mine.


    Thesest few days following our reconciliation had been pure bliss. Every second spent with her reminded me of how fortunate I was-the days without her had been hell. I couldn¡¯t sleep properly. My heart felt heavy and burdened. Now, that emptiness and ache was gone. She was here with me, and life wasn¡¯t difficult anymore.


    I¡¯d fought for this rtionship, and despite her initial obstinacy, she relented. We were back together, for good this time.


    I swore to myself that nothing would separate us again. Renee was my soulmate. My better half, and I smiled as I remembered everything I had nned for her in the following week.


    ¡°So we¡¯ve crossed out a restaurant date. I¡¯m not even dressed appropriately for that, and¡­¡±


    ¡°You still look beautiful.¡± I interrupted, and Renee blushed, averting her gaze. ¡°You always look beautiful.¡± I repeated, and her cheeks flushed deeper.


    Clearing her throat, she looked out the window and continued her rambling. She kept talking as I drove through the streets of Ondo, straight to the open-ended air hangar housing my private jets.


    ¡°All of your guesses thus far have been incorrect, Renee. Give up already.¡± I chuckled, shaking my head at her insistence.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I know how to silence you then.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Unzip your pants.¡±


    Renee choked, turning scarlet red as she looked at me with wide brown eyes.


    ¡°No way, Robert. We¡­ I can¡¯t.¡± She sputtered. ¡°You¡¯re driving. You should concentrate on the road.¡±


    ¡°Who said I can¡¯t drive two things at once?¡± I retorted sarcastically. ¡°Get to work, love. We don¡¯t have an infinite amount of time.¡±


    ¡°Oh, jeez.¡±


    Undoing her seatbelt and pulling down the zipper on her trousers, she shimmied out of them gently.


    I sucked in a sharp breath when her creamy thighs appeared under the dim car lighting. Humming softly through my parted lips, I stared at the exquisite exhibition of her feminine and wonderfully rounded hips. My fingers beat nervously across the driving wheel, eager to touch that silky skin. To run my hand across her soft flesh and feel my dick twitch in reaction.


    ¡°Remove your panties.¡± I ordered in a hushed tone.


    She let out a small, shocked gasp, not instantlyplying with my suggestion. I rolled my eyes and looked in the rearview mirror at her side profile. She was biting her bottom lip and staring out the window in embarrassment.


    She was turned on. Good.


    ¡°Renee.¡± I warned in a low voice. ¡°Now.¡±


    Her hands trembled slightly as she reached for her ck,cy underwear, swiftly tugging the fabric down her legs. Moaning heavily, she dropped the cloth unceremoniously to the floor.


    ¡°There. All done.¡±


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I swore lowly, gripping the steering wheel tighter.


    ¡°I could pull over and fuck your delicious ass right now.¡±


    ¡°Robert.¡± She panted, and the rush of her hurried breath filled my ears.


    ¡°Hush.¡± I said, flexing my knuckles and lowering my right hand from the steering wheel to her thighs.


    I slid my fingers along her inner thigh, gently caressing her firm yet sensitive flesh. Her body stiffened beneath my touch, and I smirked. I moved my fingers higher, running them slowly up till I reached her bare, wet folds and brushed delicately over her nub.


    Legs quivering, Renee moaned, as I teased her entrance. Her breathing became more erratic with each stroke-the heavy sounds were like music to my ears. Finally, I inserted one of my digits within her wetness.


    ¡°Fuck! Robert. Please.¡±


    I eased a second finger inside her, and it slid into the slippery channel. Increasing pressure slightly, I felt her walls tighten around my fingers, and she whimpered at the budding sensation.


    ¡°Please¡­¡± She begged again, her hips swaying, urging me to continue moving my fingers, but I refused.


    Stopping abruptly, I deftly removed my fingers from her wet pussy.


    ¡°What are you-?¡± Before she could finish, I snatched herce panties off the floor and tossed them into herp. Stepping on the gas, I sped toward the curvy road that led to the hangar.


    ¡°Robert!¡± She shrieked and bucked her hips.


    ¡°Get dressed.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± She demanded, astonished.


    ¡°You heard me, Renee.¡±


    ¡°Why? You¡¯re not done with me. You can¡¯t just leave me unsatisfied.¡±


    ¡°Oh, but I can.¡± I smirked.


    ¡°Robert, please.¡±


    ¡°That, my dear, was a ploy to distract you and stop your endless rambling. It worked.¡± I paused and cockily announced. ¡°Now get dressed, sweetheart. We¡¯ve reached our destination.¡±

 Welcome To Aspen

    RENEE


    ¡°¡­We¡¯ve reached our destination.¡± Robert spoke up, mischief dancing in his eyes as he nced at me.


    The Jeep elerated slightly beforeing to a halt in front ofrge, automated gates, opening of their own ord. As we were scanned by a state of the art security system, a narrow red light shed over us, apanied by a peculiar whirring sound from the back of the car. Then everything went quiet.


    The car crept forward, but slowly, until I could see whaty ahead of us, and my jaw dropped in surprise.


    ¡°What is this ce?¡± I muttered, my gaze riveted on the massive structure beyond the gate. It was unlike anything I¡¯d ever seen.


    The architecture itself appeared to be formed of an alloyed metal and glistened, looking like something out of a sci-fi film.


    I took a look around. Men in full ck uniforms nked the entrance door of the enormous facility. Guns slung about their waists. Some wore earpieces and held walkie-talkies over their mouths. They all appeared serious and vignt but not dangerous.


    ¡°Who are these people? Robert, where are we?¡± I inquired once more, frantically zipping up my jeans.


    Robertughed. ¡°You¡¯ll see soon enough.¡± He unbuckled his seatbelt and stepped outside into the frigid night air. My car door simultaneously opened, and a tall, well-built man greeted me.


    ¡°Evening. Miss Micheal.¡± He said.


    He stood by my side, dressed simrly to the men in all ck, and offered a hand to help me out of the Jeep.


    The sweet gesture made my cheeks flush, and as I whispered my thanks, I pondered, how could he have known my name? I¡¯m sure Robert told him about me and¡­


    ¡°I¡¯ll take it from here, Rick.¡± Robert¡¯s deep voice broke me out of my musings. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Rick gave a nod. With a bow, he strolled away, disappearing through the building¡¯s front doors.


    Robert grabbed my hand and winked. ¡°Come on, baby girl. Let¡¯s go inside.¡±


    As we approached the massive entrance doors, they slid open automatically.


    My breath hitched at the sight before me. ¡°Wow.¡±


    Fleets of various models of nes, from jets to helicopters, stood proudly in rows and columns. The building was packed with luxury-themed aircraft, each sporting different colors and designs.


    The inscription ¡°CLARKE AIRLINES¡± was emzoned across the top of each of their wings, and my jaw dropped open as realization struck.


    ¡°You own all these?¡± I gaped at Robert, who only chuckled, amused by my expression. ¡°No freaking way!¡±


    ¡°Yes, freaking way.¡± He said,ughing. ¡°When I decided toe to Ondo for you, I made some important decisions. Like buying a house, changing my corporate headquarters, and moving my nes here.¡± A warm smile flickered across his handsome features as he gestured grandly at the spacious hangar. ¡°So here we are.¡±


    My mind raced. Robert stunned me, and my chest tightened with emotion.  He¡¯d done all of this without blinking. For me. He was making it abundantly clear that I was his future. That we would be together for a long time, if not forever.


    I was speechless. Speechless and overwhelmed. My eyes stung, threatening to spill tears. But I didn¡¯t let them. Not now. Not when he deserved a thank you and my undivided attention.


    So, instead, I grinned brightly and flung my arms around him, pulling his lips to mine.


    His lips opened eagerly, and I felt him smile against my mouth. He kissed me deeply, holding me tight, as if he didn¡¯t want to let go.


    This man. My sweet, perfect Daddy who would do anything for me. He was so amazing. So caring, it made my eyes water.


    We drew apart after a minute, and I rested my head on his shoulder, savoring our closeness. His scent-strong, clean, and very male-flooded my senses and made my heart race madly.


    ¡°Renee.¡±


    ¡°This is incredible, Robert. Thank you so much. For everything. For-¡±


    ¡°Shhh, love.¡±


    ¡°Please let me talk. Let me express my gratitude and-¡±


    He interjected,ughing, ¡°You can talk all you want, baby, but that¡¯ll have to wait. For now, let¡¯s meet the crew. We¡¯ve got a flight to catch.¡±


    ¡°The crew? A flight?¡± I repeated, dumbfounded, and he grinned.


    ¡°Yeah. The crew and jet are waiting for us in the prepping area. We¡¯re flying out of the city.¡±


    ¡°What the hell?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s your surprise, baby girl.¡±


    ¡°Woah. What are we going to do? I don¡¯t have any-¡±


    ¡°God, sometimes you talk too much.¡± He groaned fondly as he effortlessly lifted me into his arms.


    I gasped. ¡°Robert! Put me down!¡± I protested, smiling and wiggling around in his grip, but it was futile. I settled for wrapping my arms around his neck and closing my eyes. ¡°You win. You win. I give up,¡± I mumbled, and Robertughed. Loud and full-the sound echoing throughout the expansive hangar.


    ~~


    ¡°Wake up, princess.¡±


    ¡°Five more minutes, please.¡± I grumbled, snuggling closer to Robert, who was stroking my hair.


    I started to drift off again, afortable sigh escaping my lips when I felt Robert¡¯s chest rumble withughter.


    ¡°Wee to Aspen.¡±


    My eyes shot open, and all traces of slumber instantly vanished. ¡°Aspen?¡±


    ¡°Yes, baby.¡± He breathed. ¡°Aspen, Colorado.¡±


    I sat up immediately, and that¡¯s when I realized we weren¡¯t in the jet anymore. Instead, we were crammed into the confines of a beautiful, elegant vehicle. Its windows were tinted, revealing only darkness outside.


    ¡°We¡¯re not in the jet anymore?¡±


    ¡°No, we¡¯vended.¡±


    ¡°How? When?¡±


    ncing up at Robert, I found him grinning. His ornate blue eyes sparkled with amusement, and his hands grasped mine fiercely.


    ¡°The flight was three hours. We arrived only a few minutes ago. You were asleep when I carried you out.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Figured I owed it to you¡­¡± He continued yfully. ¡°I might¡¯ve tired you out with all those orgasms at the mile high club.¡±


    My cheeks med. It took me a minute to shake out the filthy images of Robert stroking me until I came. I quickly changed the subject. ¡°So, the surprise was Aspen?¡±


    ¡°Is Aspen.¡± He corrected, gently squeezing my hand.


    My excitement grew as I sat forward and chirped inquisitively, ¡°Why Aspen? What are we going to do here?¡±


    He raised an eyebrow and grinned. ¡°Miss, we¡¯re going to do a whole lot. But if you¡¯re wondering why I chose Aspen, it¡¯s because I¡¯m here on business.¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Business?¡±


    ¡°Yes. And I brought you along because I could use somepany, and yours is my favorite.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± I asked shyly.


    ¡°If I remember vividly, Nicole said, and I quote, ¡®Renee is unemployed at the moment and doing nothing, so a change of scenery will do her good. You have her for the entire week.¡±


    ¡°That sleazy bitch!¡±I cursed.


    ¡°I approve of the sleazy bitch statement.¡±


    ¡°Ugh.¡± I huffed. ¡°I¡¯m not unemployed.¡±


    ¡°Oh really?¡± Robert cocked his brow.


    ¡°Yes. I own the restaurant! You purchased it in my name, and-oh shit!¡±


    He gave a sly grin. ¡°Does this mean you¡¯ve finally epted my gift?¡±


    ¡°I¡­Um¡­ I¡¯m not sure yet. I¡¯m still considering it.¡± I stammered. ¡°You know, it¡¯s a lot, and there are so many things I have to think about. Do I have the ability and intelligence to manage the restaurant? How will I handle its affairs and-¡±


    ¡°Hush now, love.¡± He whispered while brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. ¡°Mrs. Andrew is still around. I never fired her. Thus, she¡¯s still officially your employee. You two can work together to keep the business running properly, and if you need help or money, let me know.¡±


    ¡°No. You¡¯ve already done a lot for me. You bought the restaurant. I don¡¯t want anything else from you.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense. I¡¯m here to help you in any way you want. Whether mary or not. If I had my way, you wouldn¡¯t work a day.¡±


    ¡°Robert! You can¡¯t possibly mean that.¡± Iughed at what he said, but he looked so serious.


    ¡°Of course, I do. You should live off me. I make enough money to provide for the both of us anyway. For ten of us!¡±


    ¡°While your offer is enticing, I won¡¯t ept. I enjoy working. I want to work. I want to do something. I can¡¯t just stay at home all day and do what? Watch TV? Sleep? Read books? I¡¯d get bored easily.¡±


    ¡°Well, I can think of some not-so-boring activities you could engage in.¡± He winked, and I hit his arm yfully.


    ¡°If I¡¯m going to ept the restaurant, then I¡¯ll ept the work thates with it.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say, my queen. Whatever you say.¡± He drawled seductively, leaning in and brushing his mouth against mine.


    ¡°So where are we headed now?¡± I mumbled against his lips.


    He pulled back and smiled at me. ¡°We¡¯re going home, sweetheart.¡±


    ¡°Home? As in your Aspen home? Hm, I like the sound of that.¡± I hummed contently, resting my chin on his shoulder as the limousine sped into the night.

 Exploring Aspen

    RENEE


    I awoke with a start, disoriented and unsure of my surroundings. Thest thing I remembered was warm, masculine hands gently stroking my hair until I fell asleep. And then it all came rushing back-the surprise trip and the thrilling ride to Robert¡¯s cabin in Aspen, as I¡¯dter discovered.


    Last night was a blur, but I remembered the incredible ride. I got to just be with Robert, and make small talk with the love of my life. A cheesy grin spread across my face at the memory.


    When we arrived at the luxury cabin, he showed me around briefly-saving the rest for morning, before taking me straight to the bedroom, where I fell asleep immediately.


    With the sun shining brightly through the windows and into my eyes, I stretched out my limbs, groaning as my joints popped. I whispered Robert¡¯s name and looked at his side of the bed. It was empty, and I blinked, perplexed.


    Last night, I distinctly remembered Robert caressing my brow and kissing my forehead before lying beside me. He¡¯d wrapped his arms tightly around me. So, where was he?


    ¡°Robert?¡± I called again, but there was no answer. Just silence.


    With a sigh, I sat up, immediately scanning the room with my eyes, and that¡¯s when I saw him.


    By the right side of the room was a huge ss sliding door opening onto an outdoor balcony, overlooking a veranda.  scattered about, and in the near distance stood Robert leaning against a rail.


    I couldn¡¯t see his face because his ck locks cascaded down his shoulders, but I could feel him-his entire body stiff, every muscle taut. He wore shorts and a white tee, his muscles bulging with each breath.


    Damnit, Robert was fucking hot. So hot and incredibly sexy. My mouth watered.


    It took everything in me to keep my lusty looks under control as he slowly turned and caught sight of me sitting up in bed. His eyes widened, a dark flush crept across his tannedplexion. His lips then curled upward, a smile tugging at the corners.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± I said quietly, my fingers twitching as I stepped up from the bed. I tried to ignore the fluttering in my stomach as his eyes swept over my half-naked body.


    I still wore the same shirt from yesterday-a tank top that clung loosely to my curves and exposed the outline of my breasts. Robert had removed my bra while I slept, so there was nothing I could do about my nipples peeking through the thin fabric of my shirt.


    My jeans were gone, too, leaving matching thong panties and socks to cover my bare legs. Socks? Robert didn¡¯tment on the extra clothing. Instead, he continued to stare at me with his intense blue eyes, the smirk on his face widening. His scrutiny made me blush-hard!


    ¡°Morning, Robert.¡± I greeted, walking out of the bedroom and onto the balcony. He still stood by the railing, watching me.


    ¡°My love.¡± He said, his whisper barely audible. It sent an electric thrill through me, and suddenly, his hand came out, firmly grabbing mine.


    I felt flush against his chest, breathing in his musky, familiar scent. He held me tight, one arm slithering protectively around my waist, the other caressing my neck.


    ¡°Sleep well?¡± I smiled against his chest as his low voice rumbled in my ear.


    ¡°Yes, you?¡±


    ¡°I always sleep well with you by my side.¡± He murmured, the corner of his mouth tipping up even more, and I chuckled softly.


    Pulling away and turning my chin to the side, I gasped at the view before me.


    Last night had been dark except for the dimly lit-up bulbs, and I could barely see the cabin¡¯s surroundings. But this morning, the view was truly breathtaking.


    From the balcony, I could see mountains on three sides of the house, with snowkes driftingzily in the clear blue sky above. There was also a vast expanse of pristine grasses and distant trees that shimmered golden in the sunlight.


    This ce was stunning. So tranquil, quiet, and secluded. It was the perfect vacation spot.


    ¡°Wow.¡±


    ¡°Beautiful, isn¡¯t it?¡± Robert remarked, his voice calm and soothing.


    I nodded, unable to take my gaze away from the beautiful scenery. ¡°Yes. Yes, it is.¡±


    ¡°You know¡­¡± Robert began, trailing off as if unsure of what he wanted to say. ¡°I got this cabin because I always imagined my future familying here to spend the holidays, which is ironic given that yearster, I divorced the woman I¡¯d thought I was going to spend the rest of my life with.¡±


    My cheeks burned as he spoke about Amanda, his ex-wife-the woman who¡¯d cheated on him while pregnant with their son. He continued to talk about her, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel repulsed.


    I felt so bad for him. He was such a good soul. The sweetest man on Earth. How could she be so low as to break someone so pure? She¡¯d damaged him, and the scar left behind was still there, deep in his heart, like an untreated wound.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry you had to go through that, Robert. You deserve much better than her, and I hope you find that happiness again someday.¡± I said quietly.


    ¡°I¡¯ve found my happiness, Renee, and it¡¯s twenty times better than I expected.¡± He paused, his arms tightening around my waist. ¡°You are my happiness. Everything I prayed for and more.¡±


    Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes. ¡°Oh¡­ Robert.¡±


    ¡°I gave up on love, Renee. But you? You changed everything. I love you so much, and I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever loved anyone like I do you.¡±


    I squeezed his arms, trying not to cry. ¡°I love you, too.¡±


    He brushed a light kiss against my temple, and we stared at each other for the next minute, lost in our thoughts.


    The sound of someone knocking broke the moment, jolting us back to reality.


    ¡°Who¡¯s that?¡± I asked, frowning. ¡°I thought we were the only ones in the cabin.¡±


    ¡°No, we¡¯re not. There¡¯s the housekeeper, her assistants, and some handy security personnel.¡±


    ¡°Security?¡±


    A sardonic grin spread across his face. ¡°Yes. They¡¯re private guards hired from a friend¡¯s securitypany. They¡¯ll watch us, providing additional safety during our stay here.¡±


    ¡°But-¡± Another knock sounded at the door, interrupting me.


    ¡°Come in.¡± Robert called out.


    Releasing me swiftly, he walked to the main door, swinging it open to reveal an elderly woman dressed in white chef scrubs. Her gray-streaked hair was put back neatly into a little bun, and her wrinkled face was creased in an amiable smile.


    ¡°Good morning, Mr. rke.¡± She greeted pleasantly, dropping arge silver tray packed with food and drinks on a table.


    ¡°Morning, Mrs. Herbert.¡± Robert said, nicely.


    ¡°Here¡¯s breakfast for you and your guest.¡± She pointed at the tray.


    ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Herbert. You know Miss Micheal already, though you haven¡¯t formally met.¡±


    ¡°Indeed.¡± She nodded curtly.


    ¡°Come in, Renee.¡± Robert beckoned with a finger, and I entered the room nervously.


    A blush crept up my cheeks as I became self-conscious of my clothing-orck of. Mrs Herbert, though, seemed unconcerned about my state of undress. Instead, her hazel eyes sparkled as she smiled at me.


    ¡°Miss Micheal.¡± She began. ¡°It¡¯s wonderful to meet you finally.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Mrs Herbert.¡±


    ¡°You may call me Helene.¡± She insisted, shing another charming smile, winning me over.


    I returned her smile. ¡°All right, Helene.¡±


    ¡°Good. If you need anything, call me. I¡¯m always at your service.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°I hope you enjoy your meal. Have a nice morning.¡± She cheerfully intoned. With a small curtsy, she headed for the door, closing it behind her.


    ¡°She has a sweet personality. I like her,¡± I told Robert.


    ¡°I see you do.¡± Robert said with a smile. ¡°She¡¯s been taking care of this cabin for as long as I can remember. She may look frail, but she¡¯s tough.¡±


    ¡°I can tell.¡±


    ¡°Hm, enough about Mrs. Herbert. You¡¯re hungry?¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat then, shall we?¡±


    I grinned. ¡°Yes, we shall, Mr. rke.¡±


    ~~


    The day went by quickly.


    After breakfast, Robert showered and left for a business meeting, promising to return before evening or whenever he was through. He left me alone with Mrs. Herbert, her assistants, and one of the security personnel.


    Mrs. Herbert chattered happily beside me as I spent most of my morning touring the cabin, pointing out and describing any feature that caught my interest.


    The cabin was incredible. With an elegant, antique feel to its thick stone walls and heavy wood floors, I fell more in love with the ce. The interior was unique, and the furniture was ornately carved and designed with wless woodwork. All the rooms were well maintained. In one of them, I saw a ss cab containing some beautiful paintings-Robert was a sucker for artwork.


    Like its interior, the exterior was equally stunning. Huge wooden decks overlooked a spectacr mountainndscape, and the cabin grounds were covered in a green ivy that crept across the smooth granite stones, creating the illusion of a lush forest.


    The cabin was magnificent. The perfect escape from the insanity of modern times, and I was delighted Robert brought me here.


    After touring the cottage with Mrs. Herbert for several hours, getting enough photos to show Nicole. Then I decided to go out.


    With my guard and one of Mrs. Herbert¡¯s aides escorting me, I explored the town of Aspen.


    It was beautiful, with tall,forting buildings along the streets. Trees were peppered on every other b of sidewalks. Cars and taxis zipped past us in an endless stream, making the entire experience ethereal.


    I first stopped at an art gallery, admiring the work of renowned artists. Then I bought a painting for Robert-something I hoped he¡¯d like because he officially sponsored the trip, so he deserved a gift. Then, I stopped at a local diner and treated myself and my escorts to lunch.


    After that, I went sightseeing. I stopped at a mall to get a few pieces of clothing and jewelry to add to the vast wardrobe Robert had set up for me at the cabin. Finally exhausted, I decided to head home.


    As the Jeep sped down the road toward the cabin, I stared out the window. The sun had already set, casting an orange hue, coloring the clouds. The evening breeze gently caressed my skin, making me shiver.


    Sighing softly, I rested against the window, eyelids fluttering closed when my cell phone began to ring. Reaching for my purse, I searched until I located it.


    The screen instantly lit up, disying Nicole¡¯s name, and a smile grew across my face. I swiped the answer button.


    ¡°How¡¯s Aspen, baby?¡± She asked and her voice purred happily through the speaker.


    ¡°You naughty bitch! How could you keep it from me!¡±


    ¡°What? I don¡¯t think you should me me for this now, Renee. Your man wanted to surprise you, and why would I want to spoil it? Now, stopining. It would help if you were thankful instead of sulking. Anyway, how are you? Are you having fun?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± I answered truthfully. ¡°The weather is amazing. And everything is great. I explored the city and went shopping. I had fun.¡±


    ¡°Just you? Didn¡¯t Robert go with you?¡±


    ¡°No. He left this morning to attend some business-rted matters.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Did you take pictures?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I did. I took photos of the cabin, the city and a lot of other picturesque views you¡¯ll like. I¡¯ll send them to you tonight.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my girl.¡± Iughed. ¡°Alright. We¡¯ll talkter. Need to prepare for my night shift.¡±


    We said our goodbyes and then the car came to a halt as soon as I hung up my phone. I looked out the window to see we were home.


    I got out of the Jeep, muttering thanks as the security guard opened the door. The assistant, Oliver, offered to carry my shopping bags, but I declined politely, wanting to take them myself.


    I went inside and as I stepped into the living room, I heard voices. It was Robert¡¯s, and he sounded frustrated and¡­ and angry.


    What was wrong? I walked in gently, approaching the room where he was. He was on the phone, talking to someone. I considered leaving, but my curiosity won out, and I lingered, catching bits of the conversation.


    ¡°I leave Ondo for a day, and shit hits the fan.¡± He said, his tone cold.


    ¡°Well, guess what¡­¡± His deep voice continued menacingly. ¡°I¡¯m not going back there. Ever. I¡¯ll make sure of that.¡±


    ¡°Take care of every goddamn thing, do you understand?¡±


    A moment of silence followed as he listened to whomever was on the phone. When he spoke again, his voice was calmer and less tense. But the words were loaded with venom and malice, shaking me to the core.


    ¡°Make no mistake, you do not want to get on my bad side. You will regret it.¡± He snapped and ended the call.


    Throwing his phone aside, he red furiously at the wall. Wrath was in those stormy blue depths, something dark and frightening lurking just beneath the surface. His fists were curled, and his eyes narrowed.


    I couldn¡¯t see anything beyond him, but I could hear his heavy breathing. His hands shook slightly as if wanting to strike out, and I saw he was trying to contain his rage. Seeing him like this worried me.


    ¡°Robert.¡± I called softly, my pulse hammering. ¡°Is everything okay?¡±


    He dragged his gaze from the wall and stared squarely at me, a look of absolute misery recing the wrath in his eyes. For a second, I wasn¡¯t sure if he was looking at me or something else. I wasn¡¯t sure if he even noticed I was there.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    There was nothing but anguish in Robert¡¯s features. He closed the distance between us in seconds and tried to lift a hand toward me, but he couldn¡¯t. His fingers trembled even more frantically than before, and his face paled.


    ¡°Robert?¡± I called again, a little louder this time. Still no response, yet his stare never wavered.


    Finally, he broke eye contact and stepped back, looking anywhere but at me.


    ¡°Please, talk to me? Who was on the phone? What¡¯s wrong?¡± I persisted, not giving up until he said something.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± He groaned, his eyes bloodshot. ¡°I know we said no secrets, but I can¡¯t tell you this. At least not now. I don¡¯t want you to worry.¡±


    ¡°Bullshit, Robert!¡± I eximed angrily. ¡°You not talking will only make things worse. We said no more secrets. You promised, and you don¡¯t break your promises. So don¡¯t do this now, I beg you.¡±


    Silence filled the room. Robert seemed frozen in ce, still unable to look at me.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡±


    ¡°Talk to me.¡±


    After what seemed like hours, Robert exhaled deeply and ran his hands over his face.


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll talk.¡± He conceded reluctantly, his voice hoarse as he spoke. ¡°Someone is trying to ckmail me.¡±

 A Love Deeper Than Words

    ROBERT


    Renee¡¯s mouth gaped open as she stood, silently staring at me, astonished. Her dark eyes were filled with shock and dismay. It tore my heart apart. I resisted the urge to curse.


    Silence descended on the room like a frigid fog. It was dense with tension-the kind that¡¯d be difficult to break from.


    This was not how I¡¯d envisioned our evening. Not even close.


    Work had been stressful, but I still wanted to spend quality time with her when she returned from her day out. I was excited to make dinner ns, walk around the cabin while she told me about her day, and then have a calm, rxed night watching vintage movies in the chalet¡¯s lounge. Not this!


    The ufortable silence dragged on for far too long as I waited for her to say something-anything. I chastised myself for even telling her about the ckmail. I shouldn¡¯t have said a word. I should¡¯ve lied or changed the subject. When she spoke, she broke me. ¡°No more secrets, Robert. You promised, and you keep your promise. So don¡¯t do this now.¡±


    She was right. I¡¯d made a promise to her. A vow to never lie or conceal a secret. I had to keep that promise.


    ¡°ckmail? Who?¡± She eventually spoke, her hurt voice twisting my insides painfully.


    ¡°So there was an incident with some guy, and the case may have escted. I just now learned about it. Maybe the word ckmail isn¡¯t appropriate. I¡¯m being set up. Yeah, that¡¯s it.¡± The words rolled off my tongue quickly.


    ¡°What! Oh, Robert!¡± Her eyes were wide with concern, brimming with tears, too.


    ¡°Fuck, Renee! Come here.¡± I moved quickly and pulled her close. My hands cradled her face, my thumbs softly smoothing away the tear stains on her cheeks. ¡°I despise seeing you cry. I don¡¯t tell you these things because it upsets you. I knew you¡¯d worry.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°Shhhh.¡± I ran my finger across her lips. ¡°I will fix this. Trust me.¡±


    ¡°I do. But¡­¡± She paused, her fingertips touching mine before continuing. ¡°Could you tell me more? I heard you say something about not going back there. What were you on about?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Goddammit!


    I swallowed hard as memories flew through my brain like whish. Memories I¡¯d tried so hard to repress. To forget. They were returning to me like sharp edges poking through every fiber of my existence. All the remnants of my dark past lodged within my subconscious, patiently waiting for a chance to haunt me again.


    The memories hurt. They affected and scared the hell out of me, and I hated remembering. I despised reliving those horrible, bloody moments.


    So, I fought back against the ache in my chest. I squeezed my eyes shut and averted my gaze briefly, not wanting Renee to see the pain and sorrow lurking behind my calm facade.


    I ignored the thoughts that gued my mind and concentrated on the lovelydy with me. On her body¡¯s smooth, delicate curves. On the sweet, hopeful smile that always graced her angelic features.


    Every dark thought I shoved into the abyss, where it belonged, and I opened my eyes. I stared into Renee¡¯s eyes and felt some of the pain ease.


    Taking a deep breath, I pped a reassuring smile on my lips. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Renee.¡±


    ¡°I see the pain in your eyes, Robert. I don¡¯t like it.¡± Her fingertips slowly caressed my jawline. ¡°You¡¯re hurting inside. I can see it. I can feel it. Is there anything I can do to help?¡±


    My God, but her words. Those damn words. The softness, gentleness, and caring tone of her voice. They cut deep. They reminded me of why I¡¯d fallen in love with her. One of the reasons I still loved her. How could she read me like that? Like an open page with its pages turned out.


    She said she saw my pain. She could feel it. She even asked if she could do anything to help, and my heart fluttered at her earnestness.


    Damn, but she was so fucking sincere. Even when I didn¡¯t deserve it. I didn¡¯t deserve her.


    ¡°Robert¡­¡±


    ¡°Fuck, Renee!¡± Leaning in, capturing her lips with my own, I swore. Her shocking gasp instantly became a low moan of pleasure as our mouths melted together.


    I drew her firmly against me, my tongue dueling hard against hers, and wrapped my arms protectively about her.


    Her arms reached up, clutching mine in return, and I groaned into her mouth as one of her legs lifted from the ground, curling gently around my waist.


    ¡°I need you. Fuck!¡±


    ¡°Then take me.¡± She said softly against my mouth and pulled away to look at me. Panting slightly, a hint of heightened lust lingering in her beautiful dark eyes, she repeated. ¡°Take me, Robert.¡±


    My cock twitched. ¡°Are you sure? You must be exhausted and¡­¡±


    She abruptly cut me off by pulling me back and kissing me. ¡°You need me, Robert, so just shut up and fuck me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll be the death of me!¡± I growled, enveloping her in my arms as I effortlessly lifted her.


    I brought her over to the couch, carefully cing her lengthwise while kissing her passionately. As Iy atop her, my hips moved across hers, and her thighs parted willingly. She moaned as I slipped her sundress up, revealing her bare breasts. She was braless-fucking perfect.


    She arched her back in a quiet scream as I took one breast into my lips, sucking lightly. Her nails dug into my shoulders as I toyed with her nipples, swirling them between my thumb and forefinger until they stiffened beneath my caresses.


    ¡°Rob¡­Robert.¡± She stuttered, and I smiled against her skin, knowing I hadplete authority over her.


    My hand slid lower, cupping her pussy in her silk underwear and stroking her folds through the fabric.


    My lips left her nipples, and she protested weakly. Slowly nting kisses all over her stomach, I stopped at her belly button, nuzzling at its delicate peak. She wiggled beneath me, one hand grasping the couch, and the other fisted my hair, urging me on. Her breathing became more regr as she writhed, bucking upward and moaning loudly as I tugged at her soaked panties.


    ¡°Yes, yes. Please don¡¯t stop.¡±


    I kissed my way to her feminine center, nuzzling her inner thighs as I went. She cried out in delight, grinding her body against me, imploring me to give her the satisfaction she craved.


    In an instant, I ripped off the panties covering her and, licking my lips hungrily, dived headfirst into her heat. Gently, I worked my way further and deeper into her wetness with my tongue, circling and exploring every inch of her channel. My teeth softly nibbled at her clit, and she cried out loud-the sound reverberating through the room.


    ¡°Come for me, baby girl.¡± I urged. My tonguepped at her folds, sucking and teasing, keeping her prisoner to desire.


    ¡°Robert! Yes!¡± She sobbed, her hips jerking restlessly under my onught as she let go of my hair. ¡°Fuck! Yes!¡± She screamed in delight. This time, her whole body shook violently as her climax hit.


    When her shuddering breath slowed, I lifted my head and smirked triumphantly. Her cheeks were scarlet red, puffy from her release. Her strawberry blonde hair was tousled and fell over her shoulders and naked breasts. A sheen of sweat glistened on her body, her skin glowing.


    ¡°Look at how pretty you are.¡± My gaze roamed all over her body. ¡°So fucking beautiful. All mine.¡±


    I leaned forward and took her lips in mine. Kissing deeply, I ran my tongue through her mouth ¨C tasting and savoring every delicious taste.


    We kissedzily, her tongue teasing mine. Stroking and caressing, she soon broke free and smiled coyly at me.


    Her pupils were dted. Biting her bottom lip seductively, she thrust her hips upward, grinding against my straining erection.


    She batted hershes at me. ¡°How about I take care of this for you?¡±


    ¡°About that.¡± I quipped, and in one swift movement, I flipped her over onto her stomach, straddling her.


    I grabbed a fistful of her hair and held her tight as my tongue slid down her neck, kissing her shoulders.


    ¡°You¡¯ll definitely take care of that for me.¡± I whispered in her ear before adding. ¡°Now, how would you like me to fuck you, baby girl?¡±


    Her lips parted, and her throat bobbed, but she remained silent. She held the edge of the couch tightly with her fists, her nails sinking into the fabric.


    ¡°Answer me. How would you like me to fuck you, Renee?¡± I demanded as I continued to tease her neck with my lips.


    She trembled beneath me. ¡°I¡­ Anyhow you want. Anyway, you want.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my girl. Are you ready for me, darling?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am.¡±


    ¡°You sure?¡±


    ¡°Please.¡± She begged.


    Withdrawing momentarily, I began undoing my pants. I slid them down and took off my boxers. My hardness erupted from its confines, springing erect and already primed.


    ¡°You¡¯re on the pill, right?¡±


    ¡°Mmm¡­¡±


    I didn¡¯t let her finish because I positioned myself between her legs, grabbed her hips, and plunged into her with one powerful stroke.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± She screamed as I moved faster. Her hips moved reflexively to meet my strokes.


    Raging with ecstasy, my mind and senses clouded, I pounded repeatedly into her warmth. My pace increased, and suddenly, we came together, her pleasured screams mixing with mine.


    Our bodies quivered uncontrobly, and her pussy pulsed, responding to my thrusts as my orgasm shattered in the depths of her core.


    Panting heavily, I copsed onto her chest, burying my face in her neck, inhaling the enticing scent of her skin.


    ¡°God. Robert! That was¡­¡±


    ¡°Amazing? Incredible? Awesome?¡± I asked as I stared down at her, my eyes heavy with satisfaction.


    Sheughed.


    ¡°It was everything.¡± She dered, broad and brightly beaming as she wrapped her arms tight around me.


    I returned the embrace, pushing kisses into her hair. A satisfied smile curled my lips.


    This was everything. Renee was everything.


    ¡°I could get used to this.¡± I murmured, pulling away to look into her eyes. The brown orbs sparkled-looking almost golden-their usual color washed away by the dim lighting in the room. Arousal stained her cheeks.


    ¡°The sex?¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°No. I mean being here with you. Despite being exhausted from work, the thought of meeting you at home after a long day makes me happy.¡± I confessed. ¡°I want this forever. I want you by my side all day, all night.¡±


    ¡°I want the same thing.¡± She replied softly. ¡°I¡¯m grateful you told me what¡¯s happening. You didn¡¯t tell me everything, but you said something, and that¡¯s enough for me.¡±


    ¡°We agreed there¡¯d be no secrets between us. I¡¯m doing my best to uphold that promise.¡±


    ¡°I know, and I¡¯m d.¡± She paused. ¡°You¡¯re ready.¡±


    ¡°Ready?¡± I inquired, perplexed.


    ¡°Yes.¡± She shrugged and continued. ¡°You¡¯re ready to share your world with me. To be with me. To do it all.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯ve been ready ever since, Renee. There¡¯s only one part of my life where I feelplete. Where I truly know I belong. It¡¯s in my rtionship with you. I think I¡¯ve always been ready. From the first time I met you.¡± I admitted truthfully, leaning closer to kiss her cheek.


    ¡°You always say the sweetest things.¡± She muttered as she snuggled closer. A lovely sigh escaped her lips. ¡°I love you. With my whole heart and soul.¡±


    ¡°I love you, too.¡± I whispered in return. ¡°More than anything.¡±

 Art, Romance & Mystery 1

    RENEE


    It had been four days since I arrived in Aspen-four blissful days since Robert had whisked me away on a private ne to the luxurious cabin he owned.


    A beautiful recap? So, the day after we arrived, he was mostly involved in work-rted activities while I was out and about in the city. On the second, however, we spent meaningful time together. The next day, he took me to a car racing event, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Then, we had lunch at a prominent Italian restaurant. When we returned to the cabin, Robert took me on a long romantic walk over the cabin grounds before taking me to the bedroom, where he passionately made love to me for hours. And I loved every minute of it.


    I could still feel his body against mine, his firm, warm hands grabbing my hips as he pushed into my feminine warmth. The sensation of him between my thighs and being entirely consumed by him would always be etched into my brain. Being with Robert constantly altered my brain chemistry. It was nothing new.


    At the recollections of all these memories, my lips curved into a smile, and my eyes fluttered closed briefly.


    That night and the night after were perfect. So lovely, and-


    ¡°Renee.¡± I blinked my eyes when I heard the low rumbling of his deep voice. ¡°We¡¯re here.¡±


    I peered out the tinted window of the limousine, and my mind returned to the present. My gaze was drawn to the vast gates ahead, the iron-wrought bars appearing imprable in the darkening sunset. As we neared, there was activity from within, most likely a guard unlocking the electric-controlled gates so the vehicle could drive in.


    A little gasp escaped my lips as the limo sped into the courtyard, which housed a grand Victorian structure.


    A massive marble fountain dotted with beautiful blossoms stood in the center of the circr driveway. Tall trees bordered the property¡¯s perimeter, giving it an isted feel, and the building itself stood tall and stately. A few white lights illuminated the area, but they weren¡¯t bright enough to show the entireplex. Instead, they highlighted the mansion¡¯s many architectural features.


    With its columns and turrets, this ce was easily one of the most magnificent I¡¯d ever seen.


    As the limousine stopped in front of the mansion¡¯s finely constructed portico, Robert took my hand in his own.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± He asked quietly.


    I responded with a trembling breath. ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m not sure. Am I? Do I look good enough? I¡­¡±


    I swallowed a lump and looked down at my red strapless dress.


    When Robert told me about the art gallery exhibit he¡¯d been invited to by a friend, I hadn¡¯t given it much thought. In truth, I had expected it would be a simple, unremarkable affair, held in a drab room with poor lighting and not requiring me to put effort into my appearance.


    Robert, however, had proposed otherwise. He¡¯d made me look my best for this event by hiring a stylist to pick an appropriate outfit and a makeup artist to whip my face to perfection. Even if no one knew who I was, my being by his side would make me stand out.


    My hair fell in lovely waves past my shoulders, held in ce by small pearlbs ¨C a gift from him ¨C that nestled within my curls. Matching gold nes and earrings made my face pop out, too.


    I wore a pair of strappy gold heels that caressed my tiny ankles and carried a gold clutch purse. The essoryplimented my jewelry perfectly andpleted my ensemble. Not bad.


    ¡°You look gorgeous,¡± Robert murmured, squeezing my hand. ¡°Stunning. You would easily pass off as the most beautiful woman in the room. My most beautiful woman.¡±


    My heart melted inside my chest as his blue eyes met mine. God bless this man¡¯s capacity to calm me down. To keep a hold of my fears and let them disappear under his soft touch. And right now, that was all I needed.


    He leaned in, kissing me gently, and my lips stretched into an easy smile.


    ¡°Ready now, darling?¡± He asked again, brushing his thumb against my cheek.


    ¡°Yes.¡± I nodded. ¡°Yes, I am.¡±


    With those words, Robert wasted no time collecting me from my side of the car as the limo doors slid open.


    A sh went off, and I stiffened. Another sh followed, and I tried not to cringe as numerous cameras clicked away quickly.


    They were here-the paparazzi. Robert had hinted that they¡¯d show up to take photos of the event, and he¡¯d told me that they wouldn¡¯t be a bother. But as they put their cameras in our faces, shbulbs going off like crazy, I began to doubt that.


    Bodyguards stood on either side of us, shielding us, and Robert kept his arm tightly wrapped around mine.


    He drew me close and spoke quietly into my ear. ¡°Remain calm, love. We¡¯ll be inside soon.¡±


    His fingers traced soothingly up and down my arm, soothing my frazzled nerves. I slowly rxed.


    Breathing deeply, I tried to focus on nothing but the man standing next to me rather than the bothersome camera shes.


    We soon entered the mansion, and Robert¡¯s security detail dispersed, leaving only one guard to take us to the VIP entrance of the main hall, where the art exhibition was being held.


    ¡°Wow.¡± We walked in, and that one word monotonously escaped my lips.


    Just like its exterior, the mansion¡¯s interior was stunning. The building was spectacr, with marble pirs from massive stone blocks framing each corner. Beautiful arches adorned the roof, and a chandelier hung from the ceiling, its glittering jewels dangling from the elegant metal chains.


    Opulently dressed guests were gathered in small groups near the walls, animatedly conversing, while others admired the various artworks on disy.


    As I looked about, one of said artworks immediately struck my eye.


    It was a gigantic ss disy filled with wonderful ancient paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. They varied from the Renaissance era to more modern art, and while I wasn¡¯t a big art buff, I had to agree these pieces held a defining beauty.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t they stunning?¡± Robertmented from alongside me, his hand on the bottom half of my back, gently moving me forward to the disy.


    ¡°Very much so.¡±


    A waitress approached, offering champagne, wine, and sparkling water. I took a ss of champagne, and Robert did the same, raising his ss in my direction.


    ¡°To art, history, and¡­¡± I trailed off as Robert finished the sentence. ¡°And us.¡± He said, his gaze fixed on me.


    The waitress walked away.


    My cheeks warmed at his words, and a faintugh escaped my lips. ¡°To us,¡± I repeated.


    I took a healthy gulp, grimacing at the unfamiliar taste of the champagne, when Robert¡¯s name suddenly echoed out from behind. Startled by the unexpected call, I turned around to see a stoic-looking young man walking briskly toward us.


    As he approached, I couldn¡¯t help but notice how the crowd parted before him with hushed whispers. It was almost as if he controlled the room, and he walked confidently with an air of power surrounding him.


    In an instant, I felt increasingly intimidated by the approaching stranger. He didn¡¯t exude a frightening aura per se, but there was something else about him ¨C a sense of mystery. Something intriguing. It sent thrilling shivers down my spine.


    All these traits aside, he was pretty handsome. No one was more attractive than Robert to me, but this man was different. The flirtatious looks from several of thedies in the room appeared to emphasize my point.


    The suit and casual zer he wore entuated his muscr build nicely, and the way he carried himself was oddly hypnotic. He moved with a confident stride and an elegant grace. His overall appearance wasn¡¯t shy, but it was striking enough to get everyone¡¯s attention.


    I drew my focus back to his face, where I noticed frighteningly dark eyes looking right at me-us, through thin-rimmed¡­ sses? Oh, wow.


    ¡°My man!¡± Robert eximed excitedly, wrapping his arms around the young man in greeting.


    The stranger¡¯s austere demeanor faded, and he grinned, warmly reciprocating Robert¡¯s embrace.


    ¡°Hey, buddy! I was beginning to doubt you¡¯d make it.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t miss this for anything, brother.¡± Robert grinned, stepping back slightly. He gestured toward me.


    ¡°Meet Renee Micheal, my girlfriend. Renee, this is Cade Stone. Our host for tonight.¡±


    As I shook his offered hand, Cade shed me a kind yet cold smile. ¡°It¡¯s lovely meeting you, Miss.¡±


    ¡°Nice to meet you too, Mr Stone.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense. Do call me Cade.¡± He insisted. ¡°I can¡¯t have a beautiful woman like you being all formal with me now, can I?¡±


    A blush colored my cheeks, and I watched as Robert step closer and mumbled something into his ears. Whatever was said caused Cade¡¯s mouth to twitch briefly, and his features softened even more.


    He spoke again but to Robert this time. ¡°Why, she¡¯s such an excellent catch, and I¡¯d keep my boundaries. She¡¯s your woman, after all. I don¡¯t want to cross a line.¡±


    Robert burst outughing, and I blushed even more.


    He continued. ¡°I¡¯m not a big talker, Robert. Especially to her kind, as you are aware. I¡¯ll only be free around Miss Micheal because she looks sweet. Rest assured.¡±


    ¡°Especially to my kind?¡± I blurted out, and Cade lifted his brows, perplexed.


    I kept on, the inquiry spilling out of my mouth before I could stop it. ¡°What exactly did you mean by that?¡±


    Taken aback by my curiosity, Cade stared at me stiffly, and for a split second, there was no response. Then he cleared his throat. ¡°You fascinate me, Miss Micheal. And that¡¯s a surprise.¡±Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Huh? What the hell was he saying? I bit my lower lip and nced at Robert, who was amused. Oh goodness, gracious. Was he enjoying this banter between his friend and me?


    ¡°A very lovelydy. I¡¯d say you¡¯ve hit the jackpot with this one, my dearest friend.¡± Cade grinned, turning to address Robert before his gaze drifted back to me. ¡°I meant it when I said you look like a sweet person, and you are my dear. But let¡¯s leave it at that. You certainly don¡¯t want me to bore you with my ramblings.¡±


    I didn¡¯t push the conversation any further. Instead, I nodded, trying desperately to rid myself of any mortification I felt. Thankfully, Robert and Cade turned to each other, discussing in hushed voices about business.


    I sighed and took a sip from my champagne ss. I took another calm breath and looked around when an eerie sensation overtook me like someone was watching me.


    A shudder ran through my body, and my breathing quickened. Turning abruptly, I looked around, and that¡¯s when I saw it. A hooded figure d in all ck stood in one corner of therge ballroom, observing me.


    He appeared male, but I couldn¡¯t determine if it was because of his height or stature. The moment he caught me staring, he nced over me and, without missing a beat, stormed away through the crowd filling the hall, exiting through a side door.


    I stood there, puzzled, as I watched him walk away. Who was that man? Why was he staring at me? Why-


    A hand touched my shoulder, making me jump in fear. Robert.


    ¡°Are you okay, Renee?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°You look pale? What the fuck? What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. I¡­¡± I trailed off, thinking of the perfect lie to tell him. ¡°I got entranced by one of the art pieces.¡±


    ¡°Renee, that¡¯s not true.¡± He hissed, grasping my shoulders as he inquired once more. ¡°Are you certain?¡±


    ¡°Uhm, Hm.¡± I hummed, stering a phony smile on my face. ¡°I¡¯m truly okay.¡±


    ¡°If you say so.¡± He paused, then continued. ¡°Cade and I would like to talk somewhere more private. Would you minding with me?¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± I sighed. ¡°Don¡¯t be concerned. I¡¯ll stay here and observe all these beautiful works of art.¡±


    ¡°All right.¡± He said, nting a chaste kiss on my brow. ¡°Don¡¯t wander far off.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t. Even if I do, the army of guards at our disposal will ensure you find me in time.¡±


    Robert smirked in reply. Cade did, too, and before departing, he reached into his pocket and slipped a card into my hand.


    ¡°Miss Micheal, this is for you. A small thank you gift from me.¡±


    With that, he pulled Robert along, and they vanished into the crowd. I stood still for a little longer, staring at the card in my hand, and my thoughts aimlessly raced as I processed different things.


    The creepy man was watching me. The encounter with Robert¡¯s friend and his thank you gift.


    Another wave of anxiety washed over me, and I flipped the card over with shaky hands. It only had a single number scribbled in gold, but nothing else.


    Oh well, what did I expect? Shrugging, I ced the small card inside my clutch purse and took another sip from my champagne ss.


    ¡°The fuck!¡± I cursed out loud, coughing as my stomach twisted violently. My head throbbed, and I staggered back, almost falling to the floor, but two strong hands grabbed my arm and held me still before I did.


    ¡°Easy, there. Are you alright?¡± A voice above me inquired, and I looked up to see odd brown eyes staring at me.


    ¡°Yeah. Yeah.¡± I feebly nodded, attempting to push myself away from the stranger, but his grip tightened. My throat became congested, and I coughed again.


    The mysterious man slid a ss of water toward me and said, ¡°Here, you need this.¡±


    I gulped as I remembered the strange man observing me before, and my tongue rushed out, moistening my parched lips.


    ¡°Thank you, but I don¡¯t need that.¡± I gasped out, refusing to ept the offered ss.


    ¡°It¡¯s only water. It would relieve the internal difort caused by the champagne.¡± He shrugged. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I don¡¯t bite.¡±


    His tone was almost kind andforting. I didn¡¯t answer right away. Instead, I continued to stare, assessing him. He didn¡¯t look like someone who¡¯d do something harmful to me, and his presence was calming. This was not the creepy hooded man from earlier. He was just some random guest who hade to my aid. I rxed a little.


    Collecting the water and handing over my champagne ss, I took a long sip.


    ¡°Feeling better now?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Thank you so much.¡± I said gratefully.


    ¡°Not a problem.¡± He replied smoothly. ¡°I¡¯m never one to leave a beautiful damsel in distress.¡±


    I let out a faint giggle. ¡°Damsel in distress indeed.¡±


    ¡°You alone?¡± He asked, and before I could reply, he said again. ¡°I¡¯m very knowledgeable about the pieces on disy tonight. I¡¯d be happy to show you around.¡±


    ¡°Woah¡­ no thanks,¡± I waved him off. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please. I insist. Just let me. And if you want anything here, I¡¯d buy it for you.¡±


    ¡°Knock it off.¡± I chuckled, rolling my eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t need your help or your money.¡±


    What was it with all these arrogant rich men gloating in the face of others? I stared at the stranger irritatingly. He was starting to piss me off.


    ¡°But you do.¡± He persisted, disregarding my earlier remarks as he went on, a broad grin on his face. ¡°You need my help. It¡¯s obvious you¡¯re alone and-¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not alone.¡± A familiar voice interjected, and suddenly, I found myself wrapped in Robert¡¯s arms. ¡°Thedy is with me.¡±

 Art, Romance & Mystery 2

    ROBERT


    ¡°Thedy is with me.¡± I firmly repeated, wrapping my arms around Renee¡¯s waist and drawing her close.


    I sized up the man before me, noting his thin frame, dark eyes, and brown hair trimmed short and spiked at one end. He was impably dressed, as was everyone else in the room, but something about him stood out. I suddenly became wary of him for no apparent reason. Perhaps it was the determined expression on his face and his straight stance. Or maybe it was how he held his head high, a cheeky grin on his face as he scrutinized me with undisguised attention.


    ¡°And you are?¡± He asked, his attention drawn back to Renee as if anticipating an answer from her. He made no mistake concealing his feelings for her.


    I hated it. Hated the way he fucking looked at her, like a predator assessing its prey. It enraged me and made me want to strike him in the face and wipe that arrogant look off. But I restrained myself. I forced myself to remain calm, maintaining a neutral expression even as my fists clenched.


    ¡°Who I am should be none of your fucking business, man.¡± I lowly spat. ¡°But, to be clear, she¡¯s with me. So I¡¯d appreciate it if you could step back and leave us alone.¡±


    Renee¡¯s grasp on my shoulders tightened. She gave me a soft pat as if to tell me not to exaggerate things, but my rage continued to simmer. It irritated me greatly that someone would try to flirt with my girl when she was with me. If anyone should do that, it should be me. Not some random stranger who could see the way I had my arms around her possessively and still dared to act cocky. My fury bubbled.


    ¡°All right. All right. I¡¯ll take my leave.¡± The stranger muttered, dramatically dusting his suit before walking away.


    ¡°Woah. That was pretty tense.¡± Renee rubbed my shoulders again. ¡°You really shouldn¡¯t have.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± I gritted my jaw in annoyance. ¡°I¡¯m only tense in situations involving you. Know that.¡±


    ¡°Come on, he was merely trying to be a gentleman earlier. My stomach acted up after I drank a little champagne. He gave me some water and honestly cared about my well-being.¡±


    I rolled my eyes.


    ¡°Are you feeling better now?¡± I shifted my gaze to her, studying her features for signs of any difort. I ced a hand on her stomach, patting lightly.


    She leaned in and kissed my lips. ¡°I¡¯m fine now, Robert. You don¡¯t need to worry too much.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s find our seats. The auction is about to begin.¡± I suggested, offering my arm, which she graciously epted as I led her to a reserved table.


    As we waited, she nestled into my chest and asked. ¡°So what¡¯s the deal with this auction?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a charity auction.¡± I replied, offering more exnation. ¡°Dedicated to helping children.¡±


    ¡°Children?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Half of the proceeds go to support orphanages in Africa, and the remaining funds benefit a prestigious university where Cade works.¡±


    ¡°Cade is a teacher!¡± Renee¡¯s eyes widened in amusement as she eximed, and I nodded.


    ¡°But he¡¯s not just any teacher; he¡¯s a professor. Although he doesn¡¯t teach full-time. There you have it.¡±


    ¡°Wow. I¡¯m surprised.¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t strike me as a professor. But I suppose I shouldn¡¯t judge too quickly. I mean, I didn¡¯t expect someone like him to host this event.¡±


    ¡°Huh? What exactly do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean, his personality just doesn¡¯t seem to fit the setting. He appears stoic, cold, and calctive. What is he doing here in a room full of such expressive and stunning art?¡±


    Her description made me chuckle. ¡°Cade isn¡¯t stoic or cold, sweetheart. He¡¯s just reserved.¡±


    ¡°Pfft.¡± Renee scoffed. ¡°I¡¯d call him mysterious, not reserved. He has this expression that makes my skin crawl. But not in a bad way, though. In a curious, I-want-to-know-what¡¯s-going-on-with-you kind of way. I¡¯m intrigued.¡±


    ¡°He can be quite intimidating, that¡¯s true. But he¡¯s also a good man and a dear friend.¡± My lips thinned. ¡°I don¡¯t keep friends that easily after what happened with Amanda.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Renee quietly muttered.


    I continued. ¡°However, Cade is someone I trust. For me, he is the closest thing to a sibling. I¡¯ve known him since I was twenty, and he was just a little boy. I owe him my life and vice versa.¡±


    ¡°You seem to care about him.¡±


    That remark made my spine tingle. If only she knew why.


    ¡°Yes. Renee, I do care about him.¡± My voice sounded a little strained. ¡°More than I can even possibly tell you.¡±


    This was uttered in a hushed tone. I wasn¡¯t sure if she heard it, but she did.


    Our gazes locked as her fingers brushed over my jawline. Her brown eyeballs twinkled with gentle understanding. ¡°I get it. I do. That sounds like how I feel about Nicole. She¡¯s much more than just my best friend. She¡¯s almost like a sister to me. My confidante. My everything.¡±


    I held back a chuckle. ¡°Your everything? Now I¡¯m jealous.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please.¡± She gave me a yful shove. ¡°Do you think I need abel to express how much I adore you? Nicole is everything to me, but you are so much more.¡±


    My face grew warm. I smiled at her words and pulled her in for a quick kiss. ¡°I guess you have me beat on that score.¡±


    We broke apart momentster as the auction began. As the auctioneer announced the arrival of the art pieces on stage, we watched silently, admiring each work on exhibit. They were stunning.


    Some featured paintings and some sculptures, but each was unique and gorgeous.


    After a while, the auctioneer spoke, his words emanating from the hidden speakers and bouncing off the hall.


    ¡°This year¡­¡± He paused. ¡°For the first time, we¡¯re starting with the new paintings. Ten exhibition pieces will be featured, and they are all signed by the artists and our host for the evening, Master Cade Stone. Nheless, I should point to you that only nine of these exhibition pieces will be on disy because thest is an exclusive order made by an anonymous client.¡±


    He pointed to a covered picture behind him, and a round of apuse filled the air, followed by enthusiastic chatter among the guests.


    A knowing smile graced my lips. Renee gave me a sidelong nce but said nothing.


    The auctioneer began again, announcing the first piece¡¯s opening bid. And the game started. Bids were called from different corners of the hall, and echoes of ¡°going once, going twice¡± filled the air. Some offers were outrageously high, while others were ridiculously cheap.


    Renee, on the other hand, sat silent, watching and listening, asionally asking questions or making randomments on some of the pieces.


    ¡°Any painting or sculpture catch your fancy yet?¡± I inquired, whispering in her ear.


    She shook her head. ¡°Many of them actually, but the prices are too expensive and¡­¡±


    ¡°And?¡± I prodded.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t bother.¡±


    My lips curved into a smirk. ¡°Oh, my sweet, sweet girl.¡± I teased, brushing my fingers through the strands of hair resting on her forehead. ¡°Even after all this time, my money is still a concern for you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not.¡± She assured swiftly, frowning and looking away for a moment. But I knew better.


    ¡°I knew we¡¯d have this discussion. Now I¡¯m d I followed my intuition andmissioned the art piece for you.¡±


    She looked up. ¡°What art piece?¡±


    ¡°The art piece purchased by someone anonymous That was me.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± She blinked her mascara-tintedshes at me, her face flushed with surprise. ¡°Robert.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sweetheart.¡± I smirked but didn¡¯t say anything at first.


    Then she burst out, hands covering her mouth and muttering a series of words under her breath that I couldn¡¯t quite make out.


    ¡°You-¡±


    Her next sentence was cut short by the auctioneer calling her name.


    ¡°I believe your attention is needed.¡± I muttered just as the auctioneer spoke again.


    ¡°Miss Renee Micheal.¡± He repeated. ¡°Would you care to read out your card number?¡±


    The hall lights dipped dramatically, and the spotlight fell on her. Everyone in the room fell silent for a few seconds, their searching gazes on her.


    Renee¡¯s expression changed swiftly from confusion to dread, anxiety, and fear. She despised being in the spotlight. Hated being singled out for a specific cause and taking center stage, especially in a crowd full of strangers.


    ¡°Rx.¡± Reassuringly, I rubbed her back. ¡°We must have missed an announcement, but I believe he¡¯s talking about the card Cade gave you earlier.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Her shoulders rxed slightly, and she reached inside her clutch purse for the small square-shaped card.


    ¡°Number 20.¡±


    The auctioneer¡¯s eyes widened as she read the number, and he eximed, ¡°Congrattions, Miss Micheal, you won tonight¡¯s most coveted item! An original Turner Oil watercolor by Pablo Picasso, as well as an open invitation to Master Stone¡¯s Artistic Inspiration show, which the Museum of Modern Art hosts once a year. Ten thousand dors have been ced in escrow for your eptance to this show. Other information will be provided to youter. Congrattions once more!¡±


    Gasps rippled around the room, followed by deafening loud apuse, and Renee raised a trembling arm. She waved shyly at everyone.


    A smile spread across my face. I owed Cade one. He¡¯d won my girlfriend over by giving her a costly gift. She wouldn¡¯t see him as the same anymore, not after such spectacr proof of his generosity.


    I leaned in closer as the noise calmed down, and the auctioneer announced thest of the exhibits for tonight. ¡°Looks like tonight¡¯s your night, love.¡±


    ¡°It certainly is.¡± She breathed out, a shy grin on her face. ¡°I can¡¯t believe Cade referred to this as a small thank-you gift. Ten thousand dors? Oh, my gosh.¡±


    ¡°I told you. He¡¯s a good man and very generous, too.¡±


    ¡°Where is he? We ought to go-¡±


    ¡°Home.¡± I finished for her. ¡°Now.¡±


    ¡°What? No! I want to thank your friend for the gift. Are you suggesting we skip the rest of the event? There¡¯s still so much to do. Like dancing, dining, and drinking.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°I¡¯ll convey your appreciation to Cade, and as for the rest of the party, let them enjoy themselves.¡± I smiled at her. ¡°You and I have a lot waiting for us at the cabin.¡±


    ¡°A whole lot?¡± She repeated the words after me, and I nodded, standing up.


    ¡°Yes. Soe on.¡± I extended my hand, which she gratefully epted. ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±

 Dark Desires

    Envy is the cowardly side of Hate, and all her ways are bleak and deste. ~ Henry Abbey.


    ~~


    AMANDA


    I was listening to a crime podcast about a woman whomitted suicide in her toilet with an acid bath. The only thing that kept her from dying on impact was a tiny piece of metal that had embedded itself into her skin, preventing the chemical from spreading ¨C it sounded absurd that something as insignificant as a metallic piece could dy her death for a few seconds. But this was a crime story. That tidbit was probably fabricated to make the story more twisted and dramatic.


    The show was a popr one called Serial. I¡¯d be ustomed to hearing the voices of detectives and crime fans debating unsolved murders. It was the type of show where one might listen to everything frommon facts to conspiracy theories and deep evil secrets, ranging from drug overdoses to random acts of violence, such as serial killer cases and idents. Each one appealed to my dark side and entertained me. The unsettling phrases alsoforted my inner soul and made me feel less alone in my agony and self-loathing.


    Still listening to the podcast, I discovered that the poor anonymous woman who¡¯d been the subject of today¡¯s argument had ten minutes left before the acid began to dissolve through her body. The caustic chemical gradually took its toll, eating away at her flesh and muscle tissue until only her withered bones remained. What a gruesome picture!


    And it got me thinking.


    I did not pity the stranger, but that was beside the point. I couldn¡¯t dispute the fact that the woman and I shared so many simrities. The only difference was that I didn¡¯t envisage myself in that acid bath. Instead, I imagined someone else. Someone young, bright, and lively. A strawberry blonde girl with freckles. With a face that was considered beautiful-not to me-but to the man I loved with all my heart.


    I¡¯d stand by and watch as she cried for help while being immersed in a bath of the brutal chemical.


    As I imagined her pain, a sinister smile tugged at my lips, and my mind raced with countless scenarios of how the acid would affect her. Would her skin initially scorch like mes or turn pale and cold? Would she have time to cry before her brain melted? Or would it be instantaneous, taking over immediately? Would her skin turn white as the acid got into her blood? Or would it move slowly down her flesh, causing no damage until it reached her internal organs and turned them to burnt ash?


    I imagined her pain- her screams muffled as the acid burned away at her flesh and bones, leaving only her skeletal remnants in ash. Her once-bright eyes would be dull and lifeless, and her hair would be singed by the chemical, curling into unrecognizable gray wisps. She¡¯d look like the monster and gold-digging wicked bitch she was. Gosh! I¡¯d never disliked somebody as much as I did her. And I wanted to see her in pain. That was my life¡¯s goal right now.


    I needed to eliminate her so my family could return to normalcy. Robert would forgive me, and together with Dn, we could start over.


    ¡®You¡¯re insane and sick. You¡¯re so delusional¡¯ Mysubconscious hissed, but I didn¡¯t care. Revenge was the only thing that mattered right now to me, and I had to concentrate on it.


    As the podcast ended, my gaze was drawn to the clock on my bedside table. Eleven p. m. Almost midnight. I needed to sleep, but not before I spoke with the private investigator I¡¯d hired to track down the lovebirds constantly guing my mind.


    As if on cue, my phone¡¯s screen shed with an iing call, disying his name. I took a long breath and answered the phone on the third ring.


    ¡°Yes. Any news?¡± I inquired, rubbing my tired eyes as I waited for an answer.


    He softly cleared his throat. ¡°Um, good evening to you too, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Enough of your greetings, Kent. What do you have in store for me?¡± I demanded, trying to sound less irritated. I failed miserably.


    Anything concerning Robert and that bitch, enraged me to no end.


    ¡°Um, you know of Mr. rke¡¯s trip to Aspen with his side chick.¡± He said monotonously, and my lips curled in disgust.


    Oh, yes. How could I have forgotten about their rash trip? It¡¯d happened a few days before, and despite knowing how much it would cost me, I instructed Kent to follow them covertly and keep a watchful eye. I needed to know what they were up to so I could arrange my next steps ordingly.


    Kent interrupted my thoughts once more. ¡°They lodged in Mr. rke¡¯s cabin and¡­¡±


    I listened intently as he recounted their shady, amorous rendezvous. He didn¡¯t leave anything out, including their sexcapades. Ugh. I attempted to mask my disdain with false curiosity, but I was dying inside.


    My mind raced, and rage consumed my entire being.


    When he was through, I asked stiffly, ¡°You said they went somewhere this evening. Do you have any photos from the event?¡±


    He responded quickly, clearly pleased with the question. ¡°Yes. I have lots of images and videos. I¡¯ll pull up the camera files and email them to you as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°Good. Now, if you could just¡­¡± I began to ramble as something came to mind.


    Kent spoke at the same time, his tone quickly changing. ¡°Ma¡¯am, is everything alright?¡±


    ¡°Um, yeah. I was just thinking of the next step and-¡±


    ¡°How about carrying out the ckmail scheme you talked about? Instead of waiting for them to return to Ondo, we could do it while they¡¯re there and-¡±


    ¡°No! I¡¯ve already carried out that n. They must return to Ondo. I want to deal with them here. I need to teach Robert a fucking lesson before I can concentrate on that bitch!¡± I spat, my rage oozing out with every word.


    ¡°All right.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°Hope no one saw you tonight?¡± I casually asked as my heart skipped a beat. I knew Kent would blend in well with the crowd at the event because he was an expert at what he did, but I couldn¡¯t risk it.


    I couldn¡¯t risk any questionable activity on my part.


    ¡°No.¡± His response was prompt. ¡°I managed to remain hidden. You should know by now that I always keep my tracks clean.¡±


    ¡°I know I can always count on you.¡±


    ¡°Always.¡±


    We talked for a few more minutes before I hung up, letting out another sigh as the line went dead. A secondter, my phone¡¯s screen lit up, revealing a new message notification.


    The photographs. Kent had sent me five photos and a video. They were easy to figure out, each one showcasing Robert and the pathetic bitch by his side.


    In the first snap, they smiled at the camera while Robert whispered something in her left ear. His hand was around her waist, clutching a handful of her ass. I recoiled in disgust. In the second photo, they were seated in the hall, their mouths locked together. Bile came to the surface of my throat, but I forced it back down.


    I looked through thest few photographs and watched the videos with trembling fingers. Though blurred, I could make out their features.


    They seemed so happy-so in love-and I despised it. When Robert smiled at her, the look in his eyes filled me with anger, jealousy, and rage. It was excruciatingly painful.


    Even though the hall was busy and people were mixing, Robert¡¯s gaze was fixed on her, never leaving her side or looking elsewhere. If he did look elsewhere, well, I didn¡¯t notice.


    Every time she moved, his gaze was drawn to her, as if he were mesmerized and she was the only person in the room. Like she was the only thing that mattered to him, and it irritated me. Why? She was nothing more than a greedy whore after his money-nothing else. So what the hell did he see in her?


    And what makes you any different from her? Aren¡¯t you after his money as well?¡¯ The voice in my head taunted. I ignored it.


    I pressed my lips together and forced my eyes shut. I swallowed hard and breathed in and out, desperate to settle down before the madness got to me.


    I unlocked my phone again shakily and went through the videos and images. I was tired of seeing them, of watching them hold hands, kiss, and act all lovey-dovey, but I couldn¡¯t take my gaze away.


    My blood burned as he paraded her about like a trophy, exposing her ugliness. She was nothing more than a fucking piece of trash with no name. She had no worth and no ss.


    ¡°Arghhhh!¡± I screamed angrily, hurling the phone across the room and ignoring the dent it had made against the wall. It bounced twice beforending with a bang on the tiled floor.


    It shattered on impact, and I stared at the floor, heaving furiously, as hot, angry tears burned my eyes and dripped down my cheeks.


    My ragged and irregr breathing became worse, and I rolled over to my bedside, desperately searching for my Fentanyl pack. When I found it, I ripped the packaging open and took three pills, popping them into my mouth.


    I¡¯d overdosed, but it didn¡¯t matter to me. Nothing else mattered except Robert and how to win him back.


    A few minutester, the tablets¡¯ effects kicked in, and as my difort reduced, I also began to feel drowsy.


    As I closed my eyes, my vision gradually became blurry. A sinister smile appeared on my lips, and just before the darkness devoured me whole, my eyes twitched devilishly, and a wicked sneer crept across my face.


    Oh, I had ns for Robert. Well-crafted ns for both of us and no matter what obstacles were thrown my way, I would not stop until he was mine.


    This, I swore with my life.

 Champagne Wishes & Love Notes

    RENEE


    The silk fabric covering my eyes was tight and ufortable, but the anticipation of where Robert was taking me made the difort bearable. The sensation kept me going, and my heart pounded as I followed him with a barely restrained thrill.


    He kept my body pressed against his, his arms possessively clutching my waist. Now and then, my lips would touch the back of his neck in a fleeting kiss ¨C one that would have been more intimate if not for our current circumstances.


    Nevertheless, the aroma of piney forests and lush grasses confirmed my guess ¨C we were on the cabin grounds.


    We¡¯d left the art exhibit moments before, and in the limo, Robert pulled out a blindfold from his pocket and urged me to close my eyes.


    My brows furrowed in astonishment, and I¡¯d wanted to object, but he didn¡¯t give me the chance. Instead, smiling, he¡¯d kissed me sweetly on the forehead and said, ¡°This is part of something special I¡¯ve prepared for you tonight, baby girl. So obey me.¡± He finished. Before I could say anything, he deftly wrapped the fabric around my eyes.


    While I adjusted to the sudden darkness, he mumbled a few words in my ear, hinting at this ¡°great surprise,¡± and kissed my knuckles as the limousine returned to the cabin.


    A little apprehension fluttered in my breast as he walked me over the winding route, the cool evening breeze brushing against my exposed skin. At the same time, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what was going on.


    Was this a proposal? It would only make sense, and the thought made my heart race. A little smile formed on my lips as I envisioned Robert getting down on one knee, ring in hand, as he asked me to be his wife.


    I would never have imagined this months before, and if someone had so much as suggested it, I would have dismissed them. But now? Now, as the thought settled in my head, I realized I wanted it. I wanted to be Mrs. rke. I wanted to spend the rest of my life with this man whom I adored with all of my heart. I wanted to build a family with him. A home, with our kids and-


    ¡°Renee¡­ are you here? Are you okay?¡± His voice jolted me out of my reverie, startling me. My feet stilled, and I took a minute to gather myself.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m here.¡± I mumbled, my throat constricting.


    ¡°Good. We¡¯re here.¡± He announced, and with a slight tug, he removed the blindfold.


    I blinked in the face of the blinding light, and goddamn! The scene in front of me took my breath away.


    Hundreds of romantic candlelitmps lined the road leading to a table set for two, creating an almost ideal trail. Rose petals of various hues and shapesy strewn around, creating a thick carpet of brilliant color, and the soft, flowery perfume filled the air with a lovely fragrance that tickled my nose.


    Soft strains of ssical music floated through the air, yed by a hidden stereo inside the trees that framed the clearing, adding to the ambient setting.


    This was stunning. Breathtaking.


    ¡°Robert.¡± I whispered, blinking slowly as a memory hit me. Our first romantic date had looked like this. The candles. The flowers. The music. Everything felt the same, and the reminder brought tears to my eyes. The only difference was the setting. We¡¯d been on a yacht going somewhere back then, but now we¡¯re in his cabin¡¯s garden.


    ¡°Did you recreate our first date on the yacht?¡± I was speechless, unable to take my look away.


    Robert gave a nod. ¡°Hmm, I believe I did. A bit.¡±


    ¡°This feels nostalgic.¡± I said, sniffing back a tear. ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful.¡±


    ¡°It is.¡± He said, leaning forward and kissing me lightly before letting go of my hand. He walked toward the table and motioned for me to follow him. ¡°Come.¡±


    My feet moved obediently, trailing behind him. He led us through the maze of candlelight until we arrived at the table, and my mouth parted again in surprise.


    Two ss flutes, a bottle of champagne, and other beverages were carefully arranged on the table alongside little tes stacked with delectable appetizers and sweets. But that wasn¡¯t what drew my attention. It was the stack of gift boxes and severalrge, square bundles that did it.


    ¡°Robert? What are these? What are we celebrating?¡±


    Heughed heartily. ¡°We¡¯ll be leaving Aspen tomorrow, and I wanted to make yourst night memorable.¡± He winked.


    ¡°We¡¯re leaving tomorrow?¡± The words left my mouth, and he nodded.


    He drew a chair out for me and curtly added. ¡°Sit.¡±


    His tone of speech had gone severe as if he were giving me strict orders. Still, the look in his eyes as he sat opposite me said otherwise. Love and adoration danced within his irises.


    Still, I eyed the gifts curiously, and as I began to speak, the harsh ring of Robert¡¯s smartphone cut me off. He reached into his pocket and, bringing out his phone, swiped the decline button, never looking away from me.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to respond to that?¡± I inquired, just as the phone rang again. Muttering curses, Robert drew his gaze away from me to examine the caller ID.


    His entire demeanor shifted in an instant. His face became expressionless, and instead of epting or denying the call, his fingers hovered indecisively above the screen. After a brief dy, he pressed the decline button and slid the phone back into his pocket.


    ¡°Something wrong?¡± I inquired again, but he dismissively shook his head. ¡°No. It¡¯s nothing important, love.¡±


    His behavior seemed odd. But I let it go. I didn¡¯t bother him like I usually would.


    ¡°What do you want to do first?¡± He spoke once more. ¡°Should we eat, or do you want to open the gifts?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­thetter.¡±


    Robertughed. ¡°Very well, then. Go ahead.¡±


    I slid forward in my seat and drew the first gift box near me. I began slowly untying the ribbon while rambling on and on.


    ¡°Let me guess. You got me another expensive piece of jewelry.¡± I mused, adding. ¡°Oh, Robert, you spoil me so much.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s everything. You do all these things for me, and I don¡¯t do much in return.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re by my side, Renee. That¡¯s all I need.¡±


    I stiffened at his words, looking at him. The smile on his face widened.


    He went on. ¡°You, here with me, is everything. And as for the gifts, you more than deserve them. Money isn¡¯t an issue, so let me spend it on you. Let me unt it on the woman I love.¡±


    I gulped, feeling suddenly overwhelmed with emotion. During times like these, it struck me why I loved this man ¨C despite our rocky start and the fact that our rtionship was unusual and defied all expectations. I adored Robert so much that starting a family with him no longer terrified me. Instead, I let myself dream.


    ¡°God. Robert, I adore you so much. I do.¡±


    ¡°And I adore you as well, Renee. I always have, and I always will.¡± He said honestly before adding. ¡°Now, will you open your gifts?¡±


    I drew my sight back to the gift box in my grasp and took a deep breath. Ipleted untying the ribbon knots and lifted the box¡¯s top to reveal its contents.


    The first thing I noticed was the beautiful red rose nestled inside the box, its petals hanging downward. The edges of the blossom were twisted. The stem was lengthy and delicate, but the tips were perfectly cut, and the side leaves were shiny and ck. They were almost like ws, appearing sharp and frightening while also inviting.


    This wasn¡¯t just some ordinary rose petal. This meant something else entirely. My breath caught in my throat, and I gazed up at Robert again.


    ¡°This¡­this is beautiful.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know. Check the rest of the package.¡± He prompted, and with a nod, I started taking things out.


    There was a neatly folded ck tie, and I asked him what it was for, but he just shrugged, offering no exnation.


    Next in the box was a painting canvas and a book wrapped in tissue paper.


    ¡°Is this the painting you bought at the art show? The one you purchased anonymously.¡±


    ¡°Imissioned anonymously. And yes, it is.¡± He confirmed.


    I ripped open the canvas covering carefully. And a sob escaped my lips.


    ¡°My goodness.¡± I eximed in awe as I stared at the beautiful portrait of me.


    In a sultry allure, I stood in a cloud of hibiscus and sunflowers, and my strawberry-blonde hair flowed wildly. My skin shined, and I wore a pink robe ¨C a long flowing dress that draped to the floor and trailed along in the grass. My brown eyes, rimmed by long ckshes, sparkled, and my lips were curved seductively. Even though the paint was smudged from the brush being used repeatedly to achieve its perfectionism, the artist-whoever they were-had given me an almost heavenly appearance.


    The drawing technique was exquisite, every stroke of the painting brush capturing me perfectly, and my features seemed as if they¡¯d been molded from the finest marble, every curve perfectly proportioned.


    I was so taken with the painting that if it hadn¡¯t been for the gentle contrasted hues, I would¡¯ve thought it was a photograph.


    It felt like home and like a piece of my history. A piece of me that someone else had drawn in such wless strokes¡­ a piece of me that someone else loved.


    I wanted to ask Robert questions about the painting. How had he described me to the artist? Or what photo had he shown the talented individual who¡¯d perfectly conveyed my features?


    But I didn¡¯t ask. Instead, I returned the portrait to the table and picked the book from the gift box.


    Tears welled up in the back of my eyes when I flipped it open, noting the contents of the first page.


    It was a love note, neatly and cursively written in Robert¡¯s elegant handwriting. The tears I¡¯d held back spilled down my cheek as I read, sshing on the pristinely written words.


    The note told our story. It chronicled our love from the very beginning. Every event leading up to this moment was intimately depicted in this write-up. From the first time he spotted me on that beach months ago to the fateful night we kissed and our not-so-perfect yacht vacation. Calling me his forever woman, Robert wrote about the moments we¡¯d shared and how I was such an infinitely beautiful blessing to him. He wrote about how grateful he was that I¡¯d stuck by him despite everything he put me through in his quest for my heart. Despite the challenges, we continued finding our way back to each other, and he wrote that maybe this was a sign we were soulmates and destined to be together forever.


    He also wrote about the things he loved about me-my personality and wittiness, among other things. Robert described me as his sunshine and beam of light in this messed-up world.


    Talking about our future again, he said that no matter what happened, he would wife me, get me pregnant, grow old with me, and never allow anything or anyone to take this happiness away from us again.


    Every word he wrote was so personal, the details so intimate, that more and more tears streamed down my cheeks as I read it. He signed the note off with, ¡°Forever, Renee. My love for you is limitless, neverending. I will always care for you unconditionally, and your safety will always matter to me, above all others, no matter what.¡±


    If there was any gift that Robert had ever given me, this journal outdid it, and as I flipped through the pages, my lips widened into a shaky smile.


    There were post-it notes, doodles, and more photos. Each page told the story of our journey as a couple, capturing both the good and terrible times. Robert was so thoughtful, and his efforts in documenting all this meant so much to me.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    How had he done this? When did he have time to do all of this? I was utterly speechless.


    I closed the journal and attempted to calm my racing heartbeat to no avail.


    I swallowed back a sob, and damn¡­ why was I such a crying mess? I couldn¡¯t stop myself. My head hurt, and all the rushed emotions and feelings made me dizzy and weak.


    This was strange. It felt weird and¡­


    ¡°Baby girl, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Robert asked, his voice worried. He reached across the table to hold my hand.


    ¡°God, Robert¡­¡± My voice cracked, and he began to squeeze my palmfortingly.


    ¡°Renee, are you all right? You¡¯ve gone pale as a ghost.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m okay. It¡¯s the contents of the lovely journal. How did you manage to create it? The painting, the sketches, the photographs, the notes¡­ I¡­ That was so thoughtful.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll always be thoughtful when ites to you, Renee.¡±


    Tears began to fall down my cheeks, and I couldn¡¯t stop them this time. My entire body shook, and my breathing became more rapid.


    ¡°Renee. I¡¯m not too fond of you crying. Can you-¡±


    ¡°God. I love you,¡± I interrupted him  Standing up from my chair, I stumbled forward to hug him.


    His arms rose to hold me, drawing me closer to his warmth and aroma, and my body melted into his. His embrace was soothing and protective, and as he tightened his arms around me, I buried my nose in his neck.


    ¡°I love you. I love you. I love you.¡± I whispered over and over as I continued to sob into his chest.


    ¡°Shhh¡­¡± He cooed softly, running his fingers through my hair as he rocked me back and forth. ¡°Do not cry, baby.¡±


    But I couldn¡¯t help it. I tried to rx, but it was impossible. My hormones were out of control, and I had no rational exnation for it. All I knew was that, somewhere deep inside, I was scared. I was scared at the thought of losing him. But also because I loved him much too much. More than anything else. Than life itself and-


    I drew away from him as a hauntingly beautiful piano performance of Arctic Monkeys¡¯ ¡°I Wanna Be Yours¡± filled the air.


    A robustugh burst beneath my throat as I quickly wiped my cheeks. ¡°I really like this song. Oh, my gosh.¡±


    His brow furrowed in surprise. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Yes, I do.¡± I giggled. ¡°Let¡¯s dance.¡±


    ¡°Dance?¡± He cocked his head to the side, amused, and I giggled more. ¡°What about the food?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll eatter,¡± I said, holding my hand as I stood up. ¡°Please.¡±


    Chuckling, Robert stood up, grasped my offered hand, and pulled me close. He wrapped one arm securely around my waist.


    Leading me to the center of the garden, we began to move to the rhythm of the music, hips swaying to the beat. Iughed and threw my head back.


    Robertughed, too, and in that moment, nothing else mattered. Nothing except music and this man holding me. This man who was my soulmate. Who cared enough about me such that he¡¯d carve out a piece of his past and built a new life with me in its shadow¡­ a life I could only hope to share one day.

 A Silent Struggle

    ROBERT


    ¡°I¡¯m d you had a good time, Renee. It has been a joy to host you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much for everything. This was incredible.¡± Renee responded in kind I watched her eyes flit over my shoulder when she finished herst sentence.


    Her shoulders stooped slightly, indicating she wasn¡¯t only talking about Mrs. Herbert¡¯s hospitality. She meant more with herments, which were directed at me.


    I knew it, and as my gaze remained fixed on her and the frail older woman sweetly holding her, I c ouldn¡¯t stop the smile from dancing about my lips.


    Of course, she¡¯d had a fantastic time here thanks to me, and my grin deepened just thinking about it. It hadn¡¯t been difficult persuading the staff to make this cabin extra special for our first romantic holiday, and Mrs. Herbert had been the idealpany for Renee whenever I was away.


    The previous several days had been nothing short of a frenzy of activity and absolute heaven with the love of my life. If I could turn back time, I would. I wished I could relive every moment and every minute spent holed up in the cabin or elsewhere with her. Relive every kiss, every touch ¨C everything!


    ¡°And Mr. rke, I am already looking forward to your next visit, too.¡± Mrs. Herbert spoke up, interfering with my thoughts.


    My smile faltered for a beat, but I pped it back on swiftly. ¡°Sure, Mrs. Herbert.¡± With a chuckle, I said, ¡°But I¡¯m noting alone, and Renee won¡¯t either. We¡¯d both be apanied by a littlepanion. Or twopanions? Maybe three¡­ maybe four¡­¡± My voice drifted off as I saw Renee¡¯s face fade in color.


    Her eyes widened, and her cheeks flushed crimson. I smirked as she blinked hershes, trying to hide her embarrassment. She¡¯d picked up on my double entendre. Good girl.


    Mrs. Herbert, on the other hand, appeared ignorant of thement. ¡°Well, I am sure we can manage a full house!¡± Sshe eximed happily and squeezed Renee onest time before letting go.


    I swallowed and cleared my throat. ¡°Guess this is our cue to leave.¡±


    ¡°Yes. I can see that the staff has finished loading the car,¡± Mrs Herbert chirped, her hand pointing to the front door, where an SUV awaited outside. She went on to say, ¡°Take care of my darling Renee, Mr. rke.¡±


    I burst outughing. ¡°You have my word, Mrs . Herbert.¡± And I meant it.


    There was no doubt in my mind that I¡¯d take care of my girlfriend. Not that I didn¡¯t always, but with the impending storm, I was determined to keep her safe.


    Renee gave the older woman another of her endearing grins. ¡°Time to say my final goodbye, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Yes, my dear. See you soon. And you too, Mr. rke.¡±


    I nodded politely and turned to face Renee, who stood stiffly beside me.


    ¡°You ready, baby girl?¡± I asked, grabbing her hand and pulling her to my side before she could respond. She didn¡¯t say anything, but her head raised slightly in a nod.


    There was a stillness all the way to the car, but I heard her softly say my name before we got in. I let go of her hand and swung her around till she was in front of me, her back pressed against the side of the SUV. She let out a faint gasp.


    ¡°What is it, love?¡± I inquired as I brushed her hair behind her ear. Her gaze locked on mine, and I watched her pupils dte slightly. She then grinned. A smile so lovely it melted my heart. The smilested only a second, and as soon as it vanished, she flung her arms around my neck, leaned up on the tops of her feet, and kissed me passionately on the lips.


    A few secondster, she drew back and murmured. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to return here in the future with our lovelypanions, like you said. Or rather, small minions.¡± My chest heaved as the words left her lips. I swallowed the lump that was building in my throat.


    Little minions. Kids. She¡¯d mirrored my words from earlier.


    ¡°Oh, my girl.¡± I inhaled deeply, touching her cheek, and leaned in for a kiss, but she jumped out of reach with a giggle.


    ¡°As much as I want to kiss you right now, we should get moving. The guards are watching. Mrs. Herbert is only a few feet away, and don¡¯t forget we have a flight to catch.¡±


    ¡°A flight in my private jet. I can dy if I want to.¡± I yfully countered.


    She gave a sly grin. ¡°I know you can, but that¡¯s not what I want. Now let¡¯s go.¡±


    Before I could say anything else, she grabbed the car handle, wrenched it open, and jumped inside without hesitation.


    As I stepped inside and sat near her, I softly chuckled and shook my head. Lacing my fingers between hers, I kissed her tenderly on the knuckles.


    Our hands stayed tightly sped as the automobile drove away from the cabin.


    ¡°Your wish, baby girl, will always be mymand. Here wee, Ondo.¡±


    ~~


    This was going to be great. I gazed at my ringing phone, resisting the temptation to m it against something solid. But I couldn¡¯t. Not while I was in the car with Renee, who was staring at me with budding interest.


    She wanted me to answer the phone, but I¡¯d be damned if I did.


    We¡¯d justnded in Ondo a few minutes ago and were now in one of my luxury cars on our way to her apartment building. Thest thing I wanted was for her to ask questions because I wouldn¡¯t answer them. Aside from that, I knew I was going to lose it. My worries would get the best of me. I was already tense and didn¡¯t need anyone or anything to aggravate me.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I swore quietly as the phone stopped ringing, and the car fell silent. Renee¡¯s piercing stare fell on me once more. I refused to meet it.


    ¡°Robert¡­ are you okay?¡± This question. It was valid, and I wished I could honestly answer it. But what the hell would I say?


    How could I pretend to be okay when I wasn¡¯t? How was I supposed to exin why being in Ondo made me feel so fucking ufortable and chilled to the bone?


    I¡¯d been the perfect gentleman and lovely boyfriend all day as we prepared to depart Aspen. We¡¯d started the day by making love before bathing, and I¡¯d even brought her breakfast in bed. Then, I¡¯d chosen her attire for the day and whispered loving words into her ears while she dressed. We¡¯d said our goodbyes to Mrs. Herbert, and I¡¯d kept a smile on my face. Everything I did back then was to keep my worries hidden. To put on a cheerful face. But now¡­ now, as I sat in the ck Cadic, my thoughts strayed far away. Renee still stared at me eagerly, waiting for me to respond to her question, but I kept mute.


    I remembered my conversation with Cadest night and how concerned he¡¯d been to hear about my developing troubles. He¡¯d volunteered to assist because the situation was something he was pretty familiar with, but I politely declined. I was innocent of all the usations. This I could swear on my life, so why was I afraid?


    Perhaps it was because I knew better. Was I truly innocent? Could my words vindicate me?


    To think that because of this clusterfuck I cut our romantic getaway short, and unbeknownst to Renee, I- ¡°Fuck!¡± I swore again, louder this time, startling Renee.


    She asked again, gently squeezing my thigh. ¡°Baby, are you okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­I¡¯m fine, Renee.¡± I lied, but I was sure she saw right through it.


    She made a shaky motion with her head. ¡°No. You¡¯re lying to me.¡±


    ¡°Renee-¡±


    ¡°Robert, don¡¯t Renee me. For God¡¯s sake! Sincest night, you¡¯ve been ignoring phone calls. Why?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about this, Renee.¡± My voice was calm, and I continued, ¡°I¡¯m in Ondo right now, and I¡¯ll take care of everything. That¡¯s why I am not answering any calls. Don¡¯t be concerned about me, all right?¡±


    ¡°Seriously, I shouldn¡¯t be concerned?¡± She scoffed. ¡°Robert, listen to yourself. I¡¯ve noticed a shift in your mood since wended. You¡¯re being distant.¡±


    ¡°No, don¡¯t say that.¡±


    ¡°I will. Because I can feel it, and you know I¡¯m not lying. Your hand barely left mine on the ne, yet you haven¡¯t touched me since wended. You don¡¯t think that¡¯s odd? What¡¯s the point of all this when you¡¯re usually so close to me every time? Why do you keep staring out the window and tapping on your thighs incessantly? What the hell is wrong with you?¡±


    I sighed deeply and briefly closed my eyes. God!


    ¡®Take another breath. And another, Robert. Calm the fuck down!¡¯  I told myself. Mentally. But I couldn¡¯t keep my cool. And I knew Renee could see that, too.


    I turned to face her squarely. She had a worried expression on her face, and it instantly ripped my heart to shreds. I felt like crying.


    ¡°Renee¡­ Nothing is bothering me. I¡¯m perfectly fine. I only need to go to the office and sort through some stuff. That¡¯s it.¡± I took her hand in mine and kissed her on the palm. ¡°Please believe me.¡±


    ¡°I want to believe you. I hope everything is fine, as you say.¡± She spoke quietly. I could see the skepticism in her eyes, but she didn¡¯t push the conversation any further.


    Instead, I watched her head dip, and she shifted slightly in her seat, turning to face the window.


    ¡°We¡¯ve reached my apartment.¡± After several minutes of silence, she spoke up, and the car stopped.


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°You have to go to your office now?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for you toe in with me then. I¡¯ll-¡±


    I didn¡¯t let her continue, cutting her words short. I drew her closer, sank my hands into her hair, and smacked my lips on hers. She whimpered into the kiss, throwing her arms around me and urging me on.


    As we kissed, a part of my brain struggled to find the perfect words to describe the terrifying feeling I suddenly had. Something dangerous seemed to be on the way. Something over which I had no control, and it would have an impact on my rtionship with Renee.


    I got chills all over my body, and a stinging sensation ran through me. What the fuck! What in the world was this? Why these negative thoughts?


    We abruptly parted ways and stared at one other. I opened my lips to say something, but nothing came out. My tongue felt tied, which wasn¡¯t entirely wrong. My gut twisted ufortably as I saw Renee return my stare with wide eyes and perplexity written over her features.


    ¡°What just happened?¡±


    My rationality returned for a fraction of a second. ¡°Renee, we kissed. I couldn¡¯t stop myself.¡±


    Sheughed, and the pleasant sound was like music to my ears. Damn her! ¡°Is this to make up for your distant attitude?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Of course not. I¡¯m just not sure when I¡¯ll see you again. We¡¯ve been together for days, and I can¡¯t handle the thought of saying goodbye. I adore spending time with you. Always.¡±


    ¡°A.¡± She made a faux pout. ¡°While that¡¯s nice, I should go now. I¡¯m sure your driver emptied the trunk of my belongings.¡±


    ¡°I bet he has.¡±


    ¡°So take care. Go to the office, solve this problem you don¡¯t want to tell me about, and when you¡¯re finished, I¡¯ll FaceTime you, and we¡¯ll do some not-so-appropriate things.¡±


    I agreed with a chuckle.


    ¡°You too, take care, and my regards to Nicole.¡±


    ¡°All right.¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°See you tonight?¡±


    She gave a nod. ¡°Sure thing.¡± She leaned in, kissed my cheek, and hopped out of the car.


    My gaze remained fixed on her until she vanished from view. The car slowly started moving again, and I sighed, allowing myself to feel the fear and anxiety return as I switched on my phone.


    Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!

 Trouble In Paradise

    RENEE


    As I repeatedly vomited into the toilet, I battled to keep my breathing under control.


    This morning, I woke with a pounding headache and a parched tongue. My throat was like sandpaper, and my skin was mmy. I¡¯d taken a long hot shower, eaten breakfast, and was about to start getting dressed when I realized I was feeling worse than ever. I felt lightheaded, and a wave of nausea came over me like an unexpected storm.


    From then on, everything went downhill. I¡¯d run to the bathroom in nothing but a towel, throwing up everything I¡¯d eaten. I retched uncontrobly till my stomach ached. My nostrils were filled with the icy stink of my vomit, my eyes burned with unshed tears, and my vision swirled erratically.


    The cold tiles of the bathroom floor dug into my bare knees, leaving behind icy, pinprick sensations that did nothing to relieve my suffering. This was horrible, and I was on the verge of passing out. But my sheer willpower kept me upright-that and Nicole¡¯s presence beside me.


    She had followed me into the bathroom and sat silently by me while I puked. When I paused, she would hold my hair, touch my back, and try to provide somefort. As she always did. Even now, I could feel her warm hands on my neck, her delicate fingers gently stroking my spine. I leaned into the caress, thinking it would briefly ground me. And it did, sort of, help.


    My entire body ached, but the dizziness faded, and my muscles no longer twitched. My stomach churned again, but not as violently as before, and I felt relieved.


    Nicole murmured gently, ¡°Renee. Are you all right now? Do you feel any better?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± I started but stopped as another pulse of pain went through my skull, making it ache even harder. ¡°Yes¡­ yes, thank you.¡± I spat out through clenched teeth, and my voice was raspy from coughing my lungs out.


    ¡°You have to go to the hospital. It is evident that¡­¡±


    I cut her off before she could finish. ¡°I¡¯m not sick. I have an appointment with Mrs. Andrews, and I can¡¯t cancel on her.¡±


    Nicole urged emphatically, ¡°But you have to. You¡¯re sick.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not. This is just random motion sickness or something.¡±¡®I said, my words sounding empty and untrue even to my ears, but I persisted. ¡°It probably won¡¯tst long.¡±


    She frowned. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    ¡°Well, I think so. Don¡¯t worry yourself.¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯re not in any condition to work, and the restaurant ns can wait,¡± She said, softly massaging my back. ¡°If you postpone, Mrs. Andrews will understand.¡±


    I coughed. ¡°No. Nicole, the restaurant has been closed for months. I can¡¯t let things go on like this. Today¡¯s meeting with Mrs. Andrews will go as nned, and I will not cancel it.¡±


    ¡°Renee.¡± She called, but I shook my head. ¡°Nicole, I¡¯m going to the restaurant. There¡¯s nothing you can say to convince me otherwise.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so stubborn.¡± She huffed, annoyed. ¡°I wonder how I even put up with you sometimes.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because you love me.¡± I said, grinning at her even though smiling hurt like hell. My lips twitched reflexively, and I had to fight off another bout of nausea.


    Nicole rolled her eyes and stood up, brushing her dark curls over her shoulders. ¡°All right, then. Let¡¯s get you ready.¡±


    She extended her hands to me, but I disregarded them, preferring to stand alone. As the floor rocked beneath my feet, I felt dizzy. I stretched out blindly to grip the edge of the sink.


    ¡°Damn it,¡± I said as my hand slipped off the countertop. Nicole gripped my arm and yanked me up. ¡°Ow, that hurts.¡±


    She said nothing. She just led me out of the bathroom and into our bedroom. We sat on the bed together.


    ¡°If only you¡¯d listen to me, Renee. Don¡¯t go anywhere today,¡± Nicole said again, and I sighed. ¡°But I have to go.¡±


    Her expression remained skeptical. ¡°You don¡¯t have to. You just returned from a trip. You should get some rest.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine.¡± I muttered as I locked my gaze on her. ¡°I¡¯lle home after talking to Mrs. Andrews, and we¡¯ve taken care of business. I swear.¡±


    Nicole pursued her lips, clearly wanting to dispute but ultimately choosing against it. She offered me a sympathetic smile before releasing my hand and standing up.


    ¡°What are you going to wear?¡± She inquired, strolling to the closet and removing a pair of pants. ¡°Casual attire or a pantsuit? I believe you should wear a suit. After all, you¡¯re now a bossdy.¡± She teasingly winked at me.


    Despite my headache, I managed a short burst ofughter. ¡°All right. Pantsuit, please.¡±


    She also chuckled and tossed me a gray pantsuit from the closet.


    ¡°There you go.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Nicole.¡± I picked up the clothing. ¡°Thank you so much.¡±


    She gave me a friendly grin before leaving to get ready herself ¨C she had a morning shift to cover at her workce.


    I was done changing when she came from the bathroom, wearing a loose red sweaterbo and a ck pencil skirt.


    I also felt a little more human and robust. Not that I wasn¡¯t shaking, but I felt a lot better and less sick.


    ¡°Ready?¡± She approached me as she asked the inquiry, her hands reaching out to smooth my hair.


    ¡°Yes.¡± I said, clearing my throat and picking up my purse. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ~~


    I couldn¡¯t remember how long it took me to get to the restaurant. All I knew was that whenever the car hit a bump, I¡¯d feel slightly dizzy, and my vision would whirl around a few times. I grabbed the door handle hard each time, praying I wouldn¡¯t puke in the back seat.


    Harry, the personal bodyguard Robert had hired to keep an eye on me, sat behind the wheel and drove.


    I¡¯d met him outside my apartment earlier after Nicole and I had exited the building. He¡¯d been waiting with a shiny ck Mercedes.


    After exchanging pleasantries and climbing into the backseat, he drove Nicole directly to her workce, per my instructions, and we continued the journey to the restaurant.


    He¡¯d been almost silent the entire ride, but when he noticed my difort while throwing nces at me through the rearview mirror, he began to ask worried questions.


    ¡®Is everything okay, Miss? ¡® ¡®Are you feeling sick?¡¯ ¡®Shall we take a short break?¡¯ ¡®Do you want me to park somewhere?¡¯


    I told him I was all right and needed to go to work and return home as soon as possible. After that, he stopped questioning my well-being, but I knew he wasn¡¯t thoroughly convinced, and from then onward, the car journey had been unusually quiet. I would¡¯ve enjoyed it given my circumstances, but I broke the silence nevertheless.


    I asked him about Robert, who hadn¡¯t returned my calls or texts from the previous night or this morning. But Harry informed me that he had no idea where his boss was. He¡¯d gone on some personal errands the day before, and today, he¡¯d resume his duties as my private security. I tried not to express my displeasure, though I had no idea if it was due to Robert¡¯s strange absence or something else.


    Soon, we arrived at the restaurant, and the car eased effortlessly up to the curb. Harry walked out without saying anything and opened the door for me. I got out of the car, still feeling nauseous, but managed to walk over to the restaurant without incident. He trailed close behind.


    I came to aplete stop in front of the door and turned to face him.


    ¡°Harry.¡± I paused and smiled weakly. ¡°Do you mind if I call you that?¡±


    Though he didn¡¯t quite meet my gaze, the corner of his eyes wrinkled in amusement. His response was tentative but courteous.


    ¡°Of course not, Miss.¡±


    ¡°Alright. You can wait outside for me while I speak with Mrs. Andrews. Okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± Harry acknowledged with a slight nod of his head.


    ¡°Good. Thanks.¡±


    With that, I walked through the door and into the restaurant, the bell softly tinkling. Except for a familiar feminine figure at the counter, everything was deserted. Her back was turned to me at first, but as she heard my approach, she stood up and turned to face me. It was Sally, and as soon as she saw me, her look changed to one of astonishment and delight.


    ¡°Renee!¡± She yelled as she dashed over to greet me. Her arms were spread wide, and I embraced her warmly.


    ¡°Hi, Sally!¡± I said gently as she deepened her embrace.


    I felt heating off her skin through therge coat she was wearing, and it made me cough slightly, but I quickly got over it. She let me go a littleter, unconcerned about my ragged breathing and difort, but her kind grin never faded.


    ¡°How are you doing, sweetheart?¡± She questioned as she pulled away. I responded in kind. ¡°I¡¯m okay. What about you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Renee.¡±


    ¡°And how have you been coping? Did you work anywhere else?¡± I trailed off, hoping she¡¯d get what I hinted at, and she did.


    She shook her head. ¡°Well, I¡¯m all right. I¡¯ve been here, there, and everywhere,¡± She said dismissively, waving her free hand around. ¡°Aside from working here, I had other part-time jobs.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. When the restaurant briefly closed, I just kept working at the other jobs. That¡¯s what the majority of our colleagues here did as well. I even assisted one of them in obtaining an evening shift at a local bookshop.¡±


    ¡°Wow. That¡¯s kind of you, Sally,¡± I said sincerely, and she smiled. ¡°I apologize for Robert¡¯s abrupt takeover. I was stunned when he informed me he¡¯d purchased the restaurant¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all right, Renee. Seriously. Everyone has been doing well, and no one holds you responsible. Besides, now that you¡¯re our new boss-¡± She paused and smirked, ¡°You might make it up to us by taking us all to lunch sometime.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡±


    Sheughed again before bing solemn for a little while. ¡°But look at you. Damn girl!¡± She gawked. ¡°When was thest time I saw you? Was it two, three weeks, or a month ago? And you¡¯ve changed so much.¡±


    ¡°Changed?¡± I blinked, perplexed.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± She chirped.¡±You look robust and even more lovely. The happiness is radiating off you. You have even added some weight, and your skin is shining. Your partner must be spoiling you rotten, and I approve!¡± She cooed as my lips tightened into a faint scowl.


    Fat? I added some weight?! To double-check, I looked at my wrists. They weren¡¯t round or swollen, nor were they bby, so what was she on about?


    Sally¡¯spliments were genuine and came from a nice ce, but for some inexplicable reason, I found them annoying. No doubt the ¡°weight¡± remark irritated me. But I decided not to let that upset me.


    ¡°Where is Mrs. Andrews?¡± I asked, trying to change the subject.


    Sally gestured with her finger. ¡°Just perfect timing. She¡¯s arrived.¡±


    We turned around when we heard a voice from behind us. Mrs. Andrews had just walked in through the front door. Dressed in a sharp, exquisite suit, her lengthy hair curled neatly, she stood tall with a smile pasted as she approached us.


    She came to a halt and gave me a slight nod.


    ¡°Miss Micheal.¡± She murmured, her tone official. I returned the greeting.


    ¡°Please ept my apologies for my tardiness. The traffic was terrible.¡± She grumbled.


    ¡°It¡¯s all right, Mrs. Andrew.¡± I reassured her. ¡°I appreciate you meeting me on such short notice. I sincerely regret if our meeting interfered with any of your scheduled appointments for the day.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°No, it didn¡¯t. However, I¡¯m quite surprised that you never called to cancel. Because of the issue with Mr. rke, I expected you to reschedule.¡±


    Her statement caught me off guard, and I stiffened. My heart skipped a beat as a strange sensation swept over me like a wave. ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked, despite sounding a little unsteady.


    Mrs. Andrews was confused, and her gaze searched mine for something. It was as if she expected me to understand what she was saying. But I didn¡¯t. ¡°I apologize, Miss Micheal. I figured-¡±


    ¡°What happened to Mr. rke?¡± I asked firmly.


    I looked over at Sally, who was also looking confused. She, too, had no idea what was going on.


    Mrs. Andrews¡¯ brow furrowed for a second. Her frown became more apparent as she realized that, indeed, I had no idea of what she was talking about. Ufortably, she cleared her throat. ¡°You have no idea, do you?¡± She murmured, more to herself than anyone else.


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡±


    I gulped uneasily as a troubled expression passed across her face. She still kept mute.


    ¡°Mrs. Andrews, what are you talking about? What is the issue with Mr. rke? What are you on about? Or are you talking about someone else?¡± The questions poured out of my mouth in quick session.


    ¡°Miss Micheal, please have a seat. I¡¯ll do my best to exin everything.¡± She took a step toward me, her hands held up catingly.


    No, no. Whatever this was, it couldn¡¯t be good. What the hell was wrong with today? First, there was my sick bouts and now this?


    Ished out. ¡°What the fuck do you want to exin to me?¡±


    ¡°Miss Michael, you have to calm down.¡± Mrs Andrews reached for me again, but I recoiled, denying her contact.


    ¡°Call me Renee, please. Not Miss Micheal. Now, will you please tell me what¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Renee. You have to calm down. You don¡¯t look good, and your skin is botched up.¡± Sally said, but I ignored her.


    My breathing became even more rapid, and the pressure inside me increased. ¡°What has be of Robert?¡±


    My voice was harsh and broken. I could feel my lips and whole body shivering. Sally reached out again and rested her palm on my shoulder, but I backed away from her touch.


    Mrs. Andrews eventually spoke after what seemed like an eternity. ¡°He was arrested, Renee.¡±


    My lungs suddenly shut down, and I couldn¡¯t breathe for seconds.


    ¡°Arrested? Why?¡± I spoke in hushed tones.


    Mrs. Andrew continued speaking, and she went on and on about how he was osted by the police yesterday afternoon. She described how his arrest had produced a great outcry in the corporate world and how people were frightened. The media was already specting wildly about his charges. Some said he was guilty of murder, while others suspected bribery. Still, there was no conclusive evidence to support their usations.


    She kept talking, but I was no longer paying attention.


    How the hell did I miss this? Then, another realization hit me. Robert¡¯s temperament had shifted the moment we touched down in Ondo. He didn¡¯t answer my calls or texts fromst night, and Harry had previously stated that he didn¡¯t know where he was.


    My thoughts went nk, and my body violently shook as everything hit me at once like a ton of bricks. The room began to swirl, and everything became hazy. A dreadful sense of vertigo seized me, causing my knees to buckle under my weight, driving me to copse on the floor in a heap.


    I heard Sally calling my name repeatedly, and I felt someone gently grab hold of my arms, attempting to lift me onto my feet, but the efforts were futile.


    My vision dimmed, and suddenly, darkness enveloped me like a stifling nket.

 From Darkness To Doom

    RENEE


    THERE WAS NOTHING BUT DARKNESS. A thick ck veil engulfed me, and I couldn¡¯t see a thing. I couldn¡¯t move, and my limbs stiffened.


    Then SILENCE. It was smothering and left me feeling empty and hollow. Like a dead person. Like nothing. And all I wanted to do was scream for rescue. I wanted to scream, wail, and tear my throat out. But I couldn¡¯t. I could only stay motionless and silent.


    DARKNESS AGAIN. It threatened to suck me in. To suffocate and consume me. I wished it would all end. The terror. The agony.


    Then, all of a sudden, it did stop-and in its ce, a weird sound echoed in my ears, making itself heard.


    It sounded like a gentle hum at first, but then I realized it was the steady tick of a nearby clock. But I was mistaken. It wasn¡¯t a clock that was ticking.


    The sound was a muted buzzing-constant beeping machines apanied by various whirring noises and people conversing. It sounded far away. As I sought to figure out what they were saying, I burst through the darkness.


    My eyelids flickered several times. I forced them open in anguish. Gradually, I became aware of my surroundings.


    I was at the hospital, in a room with brightly lighted sterile white walls. The fluorescent light that illuminated everywhere had a harsh glow that made my skin burn, but I didn¡¯t care. Instead, I kept looking about while my eyes adjusted to the brightness.


    The beeping sounds from earlier were made by several machines. IV tubes were attached to my hands, leading from various drops tied to fluid bags. An array of monitors disyed data I couldn¡¯t understand, and the air smelled vaguely of antiseptic and bleach.


    As I scanned the room again, I noticed a woman sitting on a chair beside me. She was so still she had to be sleeping. Her hair had fallen beyond her shoulders, concealing most of her face but revealing a portion of her profile.


    Nicole.


    I might be able to-


    ¡°Renee, sweetheart. You¡¯ve woken up.¡± Nicole spoke gently and without moving. She must¡¯ve sensed my confusion and hysteria.


    Despite being roused up from a deep sleep, her voice was warm,forting, and calm and collected. Hearing her speak caused my body to rx significantly, and I felt my pulse rate return to normal. But my anxiety didn¡¯t go away totally. It was still there, barely beneath the surface, seething.


    ¡°Wee back to thend of the living.¡± She spoke again, this time with a sweet grin as she raised her head to face me.


    ¡°What happened?¡± I croaked softly. My parched lips became entirely numb. I swallowed numerous times, attempting to moisten my throat. ¡°Have I been here a long time? Why¡­¡± I began to ramble. I couldn¡¯tplete one sentence.


    Just too many questions were piling up inside my head, jumbling together. There was too much confusion, and I needed it to go away. So I pushed through and asked again as politely as I could. ¡°Nicole, what happened?¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± The door flew open loudly before Nicole could say another word. Both of our heads whipped around.


    Someone had walked in. Even with my poor and foggy vision, I immediately recognized her.


    Sally.


    And then the events of earlier hit me like a whish. I instantly remembered everything. From the moment I walked into the restaurant¡­to everything that followed.


    Meeting Sally and Mrs. Andrews. The breaking news of Robert¡¯s arrest. In despair, I¡¯d buckled under my feet and fell. My mind fell into that dark, bottomless pit. Then there was nothing. After that, I had no recall of anything until I awoke here.


    I went crazy in a split second, like a mad woman, as if someone had pulled the plug on my brain.


    All at once, I began yelling incorrigible words. I screamed and thrashed madly on the bed, furiously kicking out at anything near me. My fingers moved to the drips linked to my vein by a needle, and I yanked them out rapidly. I didn¡¯t care that blood was spurting onto myp and soaking my hands.


    I didn¡¯t care that I was hurting myself. I didn¡¯t mind that I was making a huge mess. I only cared about getting out of these dreadful constraints and away from this horrible ce.


    Nicole sprang out of her seat and hurried forward to restrain me. ¡°Renee, stop! Please knock it off! You¡¯re hurting yourself.¡±


    She tried to separate my fingers from the IVs, but it was futile. I refused to budge. I would only fight harder against her grip, doing everything I could to break free.


    But she didn¡¯t let go. And she never faltered, even when I attempted to push her away. Instead, she continued to hold my arms in the manner of a mother restraining her wayward kid.


    Tears streamed down my cheeks, and a knot formed in my throat.


    ¡°Let me go, Nicole. Let me go.¡± I half yelled.


    ¡°I won¡¯t. Renee, I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t. You need to be calm.¡±


    ¡°But I can¡¯t stay calm. I need to see Robert. I need to make sure he¡¯s all right. I¡­¡± I couldn¡¯t continue, and I choked on the words.


    My voice sounded strained. Frail and broken. I was desperate and terrified, the feelings and worry for him evident in my voice. For the first time since I awoke, I felt a different kind of way. I was worried that he might not be alright. I was terrified for his safety-and scared that something awful might happen to him. I was terrified for his life and reputation.


    Who knew what lies the media were spreading about his arrest? What were the rumors about him like? How many articles would be published to back up their lies? All of these thoughts, more terrifying than any I¡¯d ever had before, whirled around in my head and blended into my chaotic mess. My mind raced with questions, and it spurred my next actions.


    I started pulling on the IVs that were still attached to me. The wounds bled profusely, sttering across the bedsheet and even across Nicole¡¯s clothing. She cringed in disgust, but she never let go of me. She saw the blood on her clothes and still held me.


    ¡°You have to fucking calm down, Renee.¡± She hissed. ¡°If not for yourself, but for the child growing inside you.¡±


    I froze. Then, slowly, I stopped tugging on the IVs. And instead, I gazed up at Nicole, perplexed. ¡°Child?¡±


    ¡°Shit. Shit. I really shouldn¡¯t have said that.¡± She mumbled under her breath and averted her gaze. Her grasp on my arm eased slightly as well. ¡°At least not now.¡±


    ¡°What child?¡± I inquired again, my gaze shifting from her to Sally, who was standing near Nicole. She looked at me nkly before bing pale.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    ¡°Can any one of you fucking talk!¡± My voice cracked at the final word as I screamed violently.


    Silence. They exchanged nces before turning to face me. Sally cleared her throat first, seeming hesitant and ufortable about what to say. Her eyes were filled with bewilderment and pity. I wouldn¡¯t say I liked the look.


    I opened my mouth to speak, but Nicole beat me to it. And gradually breaking the stillness, she announced. ¡°You¡¯re pregnant, Renee. Congrattions.¡±

 A Bittersweet News

    RENEEN?velDrama.Org owns this.


    It took me thirty seconds to understand what Nicole said. Thirty seconds, during which the entire world slowed down. Every heartbeat pounding hard against my chest increasingly solidified as a single word echoed over and over in my head.


    Pregnant.


    I was carrying a child inside me. Robert¡¯s child. Our child.


    My goodness! In nine months, I¡¯d be a mother. For nine fucking months, I¡¯d carry a living, breathing human inside of me! As I took it all in, a moment of rity hit. This exined the weight gain Sally noticed, my persistent nausea, and the morning sickness. The feeling in the pit of my stomach that came when I overate or drank alcohol. This exined it all. Everything was starting to make sense.


    I also remembered a conversation with Robert the day before about having mini-us¡¯s someday. It¡¯d seemed like an idyllic fantasy at the time, but now the reality was so much crueler.


    ¡°Oh, my God.¡± My voice cracked as tears streamed down my cheeks, mixed with the sweat and dried blood on the bedding. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant.¡±


    I was barely aware of Nicole holding my shoulders as a torrent of emotions overtook me, and I began sobbing uncontrobly. The shock, the horror, the fear, and the rage all came at once-overpowering me and flooding the entirety of my senses. I felt lost. I felt numb.


    Wasn¡¯t this supposed to be good news? The only emotion I should be feeling was happiness-not dread, pain, or despair. I should be thrilled, ted even. But instead, my stomach churned, and my heart fell.


    ¡°Oh dear,¡± Nicole said as she stroked my hair. ¡°This is fantastic news. Why are you crying? You should be ecstatic.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m not.¡± I sobbed, attempting to keep my words from escaping in hups. ¡°I¡¯m terrified. I¡¯m scared. So fucking scared!¡± With each word, the volume of my voice increased.


    Nicole drew back a little and locked her gaze on mine, giving me her undivided attention.


    ¡°What are you afraid of? Motherhood?¡± She stopped before continuing, batting her now-wet eyelids at me. ¡°You¡¯re going to be a fantastic mother. Never question that.¡±


    I chuckled bitterly. ¡°No. I know. But that¡¯s not what I¡¯m afraid of.¡±


    ¡°Then what are you afraid of?¡±


    ¡°How¡­¡± I hesitated, gathering my thoughts. ¡°How will I tell Robert this while he¡¯s in jail? What will his reaction be? This is bad timing. Fucking bad timing! He¡¯s probably going through a lot right now. And I¡­I¡¯m sitting here doing nothing. I¡­ Nicole¡­ I¡¯m at a loss for what to do. I¡¯m terrified. I¡¯m confused. I¡­I¡­¡± As more sobs sted through me, thest phrases came out in stutters, my breathing out in painful gasps.


    Nicole could be heard taking some deep breaths as well. Then, in an almost quiet voice, she spoke, ¡°You can wait.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°You can wait until Robert is released. He shouldn¡¯t know about the baby till then, so he won¡¯t worry much. And if it makes you feel any better, you can take time for yourself. Get your act together and your mind right. Be in a stable ce mentally and physically before you start showing.¡±


    ¡°But Nicole¡­¡±


    She nodded as if understanding my next inquiry. ¡°Yes, Renee. You¡¯ll do exactly that. Besides, Robert won¡¯t be locked up for long. Whatever has him in that dirty pit, he¡¯ll get himself out soon enough.¡±


    ¡°How can you be so sure?¡± Nicole shed me a half-hearted smile as I sniffed.


    She then shrugged. ¡°He¡¯s not Billionaire Robert rke for nothing. He has the resources and connections.¡± I let Nicole¡¯s words sink in while she continued. ¡°He¡¯s so well respected in this city, if not the entire country. Believe me when I say he¡¯ll be out in no time. They don¡¯t keep people like him in there for long unless the crime is really serious, which I know it isn¡¯t. So it¡¯s best if you stop being so concerned. Consider the baby¡¯s health above all else.¡±


    I closed my eyes and took a few deep breaths, taking into consideration what Nicole was saying.


    She was correct. Her advice was solid, and my thoughts were beginning to clear up. Everything would be great because Robert would be out in no time. And then we could focus on being a family. Right?


    Myshes fluttered open. ¡°I have to go see him, Nicole.¡±


    ¡°Now?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± With the back of my palm, I wiped my eyes. ¡°Get the doctor toe and discharge me.¡±


    ¡°But, Renee, you still need to rest and¡­¡±


    I cut her off before she could finish. ¡°Please, Nicole.¡± As I pled, my lips shook. I was trying so hard to keep my cool. ¡°I will go insane if I don¡¯t see Robert today. I swear I won¡¯t tell him about the baby. All I want to do is see him and hold his hand. I¡­ all I want is to hear his voice. I need to know that he¡¯s okay.¡±


    Nicole groaned and turned to face Sally, watching us silently. ¡°Get the doctor.¡±


    With a curt nod, Sally left the room and returned momentster with a doctor who introduced herself as Dr. Fletcher. She was dressed in gleaming white scrubs and had dark hair, brown skin, and sparkling green eyes that shined as she examined me.


    If she was annoyed by the mess I¡¯d caused with the IV tubes and bandages, she didn¡¯t show it. Instead, she moved around me, checking various readouts and inquiring about my symptoms and other essential information. She scribbled notes on her pad and also providedprehensive exnations about multiple tests and treatments that¡¯d be necessary as my pregnancy progressed.


    As she spoke, I felt like I was in a trance, and everything seemed strange. I was really pregnant. I would have my own tiny human being-a product of the love I shared with Robert. Damn, my entire life was about to change in such an amazing way.


    When the doctor finally spoke again, I blinked back a tear. ¡°Congrattions again, miss. Everything looks great. It¡¯d be better if we kept you overnight for observation and close monitoring. You should¡­¡±


    ¡°I apologize, ma¡¯am. But she wants to be discharged immediately.¡± Nicole cut the doctor off mid-sentence. ¡°Please.¡±


    ¡°Um. Okay, then.¡± Dr. Fletcher nced at her. ¡°But before she can be discharged, her wounds must be cleaned and dressed. We also need to give her medications to help with the nausea.¡±


    ¡°Of course. Thank you very much,¡± Nicole murmured, and I offered my gratitude by bowing my head slightly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll send a nurse over shortly.¡± Dr. Fletcher said as she exited the room with onest warm grin, and a few minutester, the nurse arrived as she said.


    With two sets of surgical gloves and a clean cotton sheet in her hands, she went about her work carefully, ensuring every wound in my body was cleaned and covered with gauze. I kept ncing out the window as she did this, thinking of Robert.


    His face shed through my mind constantly, and I wondered if his eyes would be filled with grief and sadness when I saw himter today. Or would he twist the corners of his mouth into a grin and tell me not to worry?


    Then he¡¯d tell me to be strong and to trust him because that¡¯s what he always did. He always knew how to reassure me even when his life was falling apart.


    Oh, Robert. My thoughtful, caring, kind man. My eyes welled up with tears once more.


    ¡°All done.¡± The nurse announced, breaking my train of thought. She took a step back, a satisfied expression on her face, and nodded. ¡°You¡¯re free to leave now, ma¡¯am. If only you¡¯d sign this.¡± She handed me a clipboard with several sheets of paper.


    I scribbled my signature on the papers and handed it back. She grinned and exited the room.


    I silently sat after she left, my gaze darting from Nicole to Sally. ¡°So what, now?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious?¡± Nicoleughed softly and offered her hand, which I graciously epted. ¡°We go visit your man.¡±

 Love In Captivity

    ROBERT


    Cigarette smoke wafted down the corridor and into the cell where I¡¯d been confined.


    My cuffed hands reflexively went to my nose, attempting to block out the stench but to no avail. My lungs were burning, and a gag formed in my throat.


    One day. It¡¯d only been one goddamned day since everything had gone to shit. I¡¯d gotten arrested and locked in a ce I¡¯d sworn never to step feet in again-a ce filled with the memories of some of my worst nightmares. Oh, but I was on the verge of insanity. I was going crazy.


    Even though my cell was luxurious by jail standards, I couldn¡¯t breathe or sleep.


    There were two windows with a thin curtain that let in natural light. A vanity table and a broken mirror sat to one side. A little closet stood next to it, but it held nothing but the toiletries a guard would bring me every morning.


    The bed was also reallyfy, with thick cotton sheets, a soft nket with a pleasant scent, and pillows that supported my head as I leaned back on them.


    Overall, the room was quitefortable, but with money, anything was possible. And in my case, it included this cell, with itsfortable bed and decent food-a stark contrast to what other criminals were entitled to. It was a mockery of what I¡¯d been ustomed to over the years.


    The sound of approaching footsteps drew my attention away from the window. I heard keys rattling together outside my door and a loud ¡®ding¡¯ as someone unlocked it.


    Two guards entered the room when the hefty metal door swung open. They wore rumpled uniforms-dark blue trousers and old boots ¨C and looked shabby. They also had pistols strapped to the sides of their right arms, and their stoic facial expressions gave nothing away.


    One of the guards came to a halt a few feet away from me, held up what appeared to be a ballpoint pen, and then spoke, his tone solemn.


    ¡°Mr. rke, you¡¯ve got a visitor.¡±


    ¡°A visitor?¡± I raised my brows, wondering who it could be. Mywyer? No, he¡¯d been by already and wouldn¡¯t be back until tomorrow to finalize my provisional bail request. So, I wasn¡¯t expecting anyone.


    Except¡­ my eyes widened.


    ¡°Renee.¡± I said quietly, just as the guard spoke up again. ¡°Mr. rke, if you would please follow us. We¡¯ll take you to her.¡±


    Her. The visitor was undoubtedly female, and my gut twisted into knots.


    Renee was here. Without a doubt, to ask questions I most likely couldn¡¯t answer. Or rather, questions I didn¡¯t want to answer.


    She was thest person I wanted to see right now. Why? I couldn¡¯t stomach looking at her. I couldn¡¯t bear to look into those brown eyes I adored without feeling a piercing, scorching ache. The mere sight of her would make my misery worse. It would cause me more pain. More agony. More anguish than the loss of my freedom.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I said under my breath, staring at the ground and clenching my fists so hard they turned white.


    My breathing became more rapid as a feeling of panic overtook me. I closed my eyes tightly, praying for this horrible feeling to go away.


    ¡°I¡¯m such an asshole.¡± I muttered to myself. ¡°A fucking asshole. What on earth was I thinking? That she wouldn¡¯t co-¡±


    ¡°Did you say something, Mr rke?¡± The guard, who was still several feet away, inquired.


    I blinked, opened my eyes and mouth to respond, but snapped it shut.


    ¡°Mr rke?¡± The guard spoke again, stepping closer. ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± I repeated. ¡°No. Not at all.¡±


    ¡°Good. Because I would hate to inform your visitor you¡¯re indisposed and cannot honor her visit. We need to leave now.¡±


    I swallowed hard. ¡°Sure. Lead the way,¡± I said, standing on wobbly feet.


    The guards led me out without saying another word, and I followed closely behind. We strolled down a long, curving corridor, past cells with locked doors, some empty, some full of convicts.


    I could feel the stares emanating from the jail walls as I walked by-hostile stares, judging, or both. I despised it. I loathed every single look, whether one of pity or scornful judgment. I hated the whispers as well. They were louder than the voices in my head. And just as unbearable.


    Damn! I felt sick.


    After what seemed like an eternity and a couple of turns, we came to a halt outside a massive, intimidating set of steel-barred double doors. This was the entrance to the visitors¡¯ room, and I¡¯d been here before. To see mywyer. Of course, my heart didn¡¯t race ten times as fast as it was now, nor did my knees shake like jelly.


    At the time, I was calm and collected. But things were different now. I felt nervous, afraid, and uncertain, like my life depended on what Renee would say.


    ¡°You can go in now,¡± One of the guards said, breaking me out of my thoughts, and the other pushed the door open.


    I stepped forward hesitantly, entering the all-too-familiar room. And I froze. There she was, sitting against the far wall on a stiff wooden chair. Her strawberry blonde hair fell in soft waves down her shoulders. Her eyes met mine immediately, and the brown orbs pierced through me-prating my soul.


    Her gaze moved up and down my body. From the top of my unkempt hair to the bottom of my scuffed sneakers. And when she saw my shackled wrists, her attention lingered for a minute longer on them. She noticed my sore and blistered fingertips and my exposed skin, which was a bit dark from the jail¡¯s day-old tan.


    I noticed her countenance shift and felt fury radiate from her. Something resembling pain also marred her features, but it was impossible to know what she was thinking or feeling because she kept her calm.


    Then, a tear streamed down her cheek, and she stood up abruptly. She ran to me and threw herself on my chest in a bone-crushing hug.


    ¡°Ro¡­ Robert.¡± Her voice wavered as she clutched me, her whole body quivering.


    I wanted to return the hug, but the handcuffs made it impossible. Instead, I remained stiff, allowing her to cling to me and bury her face against my chest. The sounds of her sobbing broke me. Shattered my insides.


    And that agonizing ache from earlier reappeared. It came with a twist this time, stiffening my ribcage and squeezing tighter still. So really fucking tight.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± I managed to utter, my voice raspy as I begged. ¡°Please, stop crying.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I¡­ I can¡¯t.¡± She mumbled, burying her face further into my shirt and sobbing even more. ¡°I just can¡¯t. What¡­ what happened?¡±


    I swallowed hard, unsure of how to respond to her query. Or even where to begin.


    ¡°What happened, Robert?¡± She asked, and this time, her grasp gave way, allowing her to pull back slightly, revealing her tear-streaked face.


    Her cheeks were coated with mascara and eyeliner as she stared at me. More unshed tears glistened in her eyes, and many emotions danced around their depths.


    Sadness and sorrow. Pain. Fear. Confusion. Guilt. Anger. Betrayal. And, of course, love. All of these feelings could be seen in her eyes. As much as I wished I could reach out and smooth the creases between her brows, I knew I couldn¡¯t. I couldn¡¯t do anything and felt so bad about it. I felt ashamed, too. I was embarrassed at my inability to make things better. Guilt gnawed at my bones and wed my insides.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Renee.¡± I whispered, looking away, unable to meet her sad gaze anymore.


    ¡°What are you apologizing for?¡± She asked, and before I could respond, she spoke again, ¡°Let¡¯s take a seat. Maybe then you¡¯ll be able to start telling me everything.¡±


    With that, she took my arm and led me to the seats in the center of the room, which had a table in the middle. I sat down carefully, trying not to jostle the cuffs that held my wrists together. Once again, Renee¡¯s attention briefly flickered to my wrists as she sat across from me.


    A long silence followed. Then she sniffed, cleared her throat, and barraged me with questions. ¡°What in the world happened, Robert? We were together yesterday afternoon, so how are you here now? Why didn¡¯t anyone tell me? Why didn¡¯t your PA notify me? My bodyguard, Harry, waspletely unaware of your arrest. How? Or is he lying? I was shocked when Mrs. Andrews told me the news, and at first, I thought she was joking, but¡­¡± She trailed off, and I sighed deeply.


    ¡°In truth, I told them not to say a word of my arrest to you.¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s them? Harry? Or who? And why would you do such a thing? Why?¡± Her voice cracked as she half yelled.


    I reached across the table and gripped her right palm. I whispered an apology, hoping she¡¯d ept it.


    ¡°I apologize for that, Renee. I didn¡¯t want you to be concerned. I-¡±


    ¡°Please, please!¡± She stopped me off, yanking her hand away from my hold. Her lips trembled uncontrobly, and her face distorted in rage and fury. ¡°Stop saying that! I¡¯ll always be concerned about you. Always! Because it¡¯s the right thing to do. It¡¯s what people in love do. We worry about each other. For better, or for fucking worse!¡±


    ¡°Renee¡­¡±


    ¡°If this situation had been reversed and I was the one here, you would have razed down the entire building. You would have done everything possible to get me out, regardless of the repercussions or what I did. Why can¡¯t I do the same? Why shouldn¡¯t I worry? God, no, Robert!¡±


    Again, tears streamed down her cheeks, and she sobbed gently, covering her mouth with her trembling hands.


    I stood there, powerless, as she broke down. I watched as the fury in her eyes faded and was reced by something else. Something infinitely sadder.


    ¡°I¡¯m such a bad girlfriend.¡± She muttered. ¡°A terrible, terrible girlfriend. When all of my phone calls went to voicemail, I should¡¯ve known something was wrong. God, I¡¯m such a moron.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that, Renee. Please.¡± I begged.


    She didn¡¯t say anything at first. She just sat and shook her head, wiping her tears away with both hands. Then she asked, looking at me. ¡°Why are you here? What happened? Tell me everything.¡±


    And I did. Without any hesitation this time. I told Renee everything. Starting from the moment I left her apartment and continuing through the events that led to my arrest. I¡¯d been osted at my workce, and when mywyer arrived at the station, he informed me of the chargesid against me.


    Murder. Assault. Assorted felonies. These were the three words he¡¯d used to describe my actions.


    ¡°Murder?¡± Renee gasped, and I saw the questions forming in her eyes. But before she could ask, I told her the answers anyway.


    ¡°Remember when I told you in Aspen that someone was trying to ckmail me?¡±


    She nodded.


    ¡°This is it.¡± I said, taking another deep breath and continuing. ¡°My fingerprints were found on the dead body of a guy I beat up at the club some months ago.¡±


    ¡°What guy? Which club?¡± She frowned.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    ¡°His name is Darren. And the club is¡­¡± I paused and nibbled the inside of my lower lip. I didn¡¯t want to say this because I knew what would happen next. I damn well knew the turn this would take.


    ¡°Robert,¡± She said softly. ¡°Tell me.¡±


    ¡°The club where you were assaulted.¡±


    ¡°Is Darren the guy who¡­¡± She didn¡¯t finish her sentence because I nodded in response.


    Silence, again. Then Renee¡¯s shoulders dropped, and she buried her face in her palms. ¡°Oh, my goodness. This is my fault.¡±


    ¡°No. No. Renee, don¡¯t me yourself.¡± I tried to reach for her hands, but she wouldn¡¯t let me.


    ¡°Fuck, yes, it is. None of this would have happened if I had never stepped foot inside that ce. I followed that stranger mindlessly. I¡¯d taken the drink. I caused this,¡± She blurted, letting out another strangled sob and sliding back from the table.


    My heart clenched, and my chest tightened. I never knew that a single act could break me like this. That I could feel so empty and hollow inside as a result.


    Seeing Renee cry¡­it crushed me. Fucking destroyed me.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t your fault, Renee.¡± I finally answered, trying to sound tough despite my trembling voice. My words were firm and full of conviction when I spoke again. ¡°It¡¯s entirely mine. Iid my hands on him. I beat him to a pulp and would dly do it again. He fucked with your drink. He was trying to harm you. I don¡¯t regret doing those things, so don¡¯t you dare me yourself. Don¡¯t!¡±


    Still staring at me with watery brown eyes, her gaze burning into mine, Renee asked, ¡°But he¡¯s dead. Howe? Did you¡­?¡±


    ¡°What? No! I beat him ck and blue but believe me when I say I didn¡¯t kill him. He was still alive when I let him be and handed him over to the cops. I know this. They are aware of this. And there¡¯s evidence. So don¡¯t worry too much, and don¡¯t me yourself.¡± I paused to catch my breath. ¡°I¡¯ll get through this.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± She replied weakly, nodding.


    ¡°Good. That¡¯s my girl.¡±


    ¡°So¡­¡± She sniffed. ¡°How long are you going to be here for?¡±


    ¡°I should be out by tomorrow. Mywyer is working tooth and nail to secure an early bail request for me.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯ll figure this out. We¡¯ll figure this out,¡± I assured her and continued. ¡°Once I¡¯m out of here, however brief, I¡¯ll be in the right frame of mind to deal with the problem. There might be minor problems like legal challenges andwsuits. But I¡¯ve got lots of resources on speed dial.¡±


    Renee¡¯s lips twitched into a sad smile. ¡°A lot of resources, huh?¡± She hummed. ¡°But that¡¯s why you¡¯re Robert rke, and I know you¡¯ll find a way to fix this.¡±


    Even though my face was numb, I grinned. When I reached out my bound wrists to her, she removed her palms from her face and took my hands in hers.


    We stayed like that for a while, holding hands and staring at each other, not saying a word or moving. The warmth of Renee¡¯s hands in mine provided me with strength. I felt a sensation of calm flood over me, and I almost believed in the possibilities. That things would be better now. Everything would work out in the end. And whoever was behind this, they would pay. I could feel it in my bones, deep down, in my heart and lungs, that justice would eventuallye.


    ¡°Robert,¡± She began, breaking the silence. ¡°What about thepany?¡±


    ¡°Mypany?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    I let out a sigh. ¡°The case is already having a drastic effect, and shareholders are withdrawing and selling their stocks. But it¡¯s to be anticipated, and I¡¯ll handle it. I¡¯m not worried.¡±


    ¡°God, Robert.¡± Her voice cracked again, and she tried removing her hands away from mine-probably so she could cover her face with them while she cried. I didn¡¯t let her.


    ¡°I said I¡¯ll take care of it, Renee. Don¡¯t worry about it.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Okay.¡± She whispered, the words almost inaudible, but I heard them. ¡°Have you eaten yet? How are you feeling?¡±


    ¡°I feel like shit, honestly, but at the same time I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ve eaten, and before you ask, no, my cell is not that bad. When you have money, you can get anything; in my case, I have plenty of it.¡± I winked at her. ¡°I¡¯m in a cell called the solitary. It¡¯s like a private room with certain features and privileges.¡± I said with a chuckle, hoping to lighten the gloomy atmosphere but failing miserably.


    Renee remained silent, and I noticed her ncing at her stomach now and then. She even withdrew one of her palms from my grip and ced it on her tummy.


    ¡°You having a stomach ache?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± She answered sharply, looking up and dropping her hand. ¡°No, I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± I persisted. ¡°You look pale, and your eyelids twitch as if in pain. Is there-¡±


    She snapped. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Robert. Please, stop asking.¡±


    My brow furrowed, but I chose to drop the subject. I was about to say something else when the door behind us flung open, revealing a guard on the threshold.


    ¡°Visiting hours have ended. Get your ass up.¡± He said, approaching us.


    He tried to grab my hands roughly, but I maneuvered and stood up on my own ord.


    Renee stood up as well, and before I could say a word, she walked over and hugged me tightly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to let go.¡± Her words were muffled against my chest as she clung to me.


    ¡°Neither do I.¡± I murmured back, cing my chin on top of her hair.


    Her fingers grasped my shirt fiercely, and her breath caught in her throat. As we remained locked in the embrace, tears streamed down her face, and her hands shook heavily.


    When she pulled away, wiping the tear from the corner of her stainedshes, I heard her say, ¡°Take care of yourself, okay?¡±


    ¡°Right back at you.¡± I smiled. ¡°I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you more.¡± Her lips trembled as she faked a grin.


    The guard grabbed my arm, making me tumble backward. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    I hissed slightly butplied. Turning around, I looked at Renee onest time, gave her what I hoped was aforting smile, and disappeared out the door into the jail hallway.

 Promise In The Dark

    RENEE


    ¡°Renee.¡± Nicole ran toward me as I stepped out of the station house. She wrapped her arms around me, and we stood there, cuddling in the crisp, bright afternoon sunlight.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± As I drew back slightly, her eyes, anxious and sympathetic, searched mine.


    I mustered a smile. Despite my puffy cheeks and swollen red eyes from bawling my heart out, I managed to nod. ¡°I believe I¡¯m fine.¡±


    She remained silent as she studied my countenance. ¡°How is Robert?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s alright. He¡¯d be released on bond tomorrow.¡± I tried my hardest to sound convincing as I spoke, but judging by the frown on my friend¡¯s face, I wasn¡¯t very sessful.


    ¡°Is he getting excellent treatment in there or not?¡± Her voice was calm, but it was the kind of calm that implied I¡¯d better speak the truth or else.


    ¡°Physically? He¡¯s okay,¡± I started with a sigh. ¡°But emotionally¡­ he¡¯s¡­ he¡¯s acting tough, but I know better. I know he¡¯s in pain and afraid. I know he¡¯s¡­¡± I trailed off as my voice broke into a sob.


    I tried hard to swallow but couldn¡¯t, and a massive lump grew in my throat. I couldn¡¯t speak, so I just closed my eyes and lowered my head, unable to keep eye contact.


    ¡°Oh, girl.¡± Nicole gripped me once more, holding me tight as if scared I¡¯d slip from her clutches if she let go. ¡°Everything will be fine. Do you hear me? You¡¯ll get through this? He¡¯ll get through it, I promise.¡±


    I let out a watery giggle as I remembered Robert saying the exact same thing to me only a few minutes before.


    ¡°Many thanks, Nic. That was just what I needed.¡±


    She gave me a reassuring hug before pulling away, taking my arms with her. ¡°Alright. Are you ready to go?¡±


    I nodded, wiping the corner of my eye and turning to face Harry, who was patiently waiting for us in his ck Mercedes. ¡°Yes, I am, but I¡¯ll go to Robert¡¯s hotel.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Why?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. He¡¯ll be released tomorrow, and I want to be the first person he sees when he walks into the suite.¡±


    ¡°But, Renee, your health. You need to rest and¡­¡±


    I interrupted her before she could finish. ¡°And I¡¯ll get that there. You don¡¯t need to be concerned about my health. I swear I¡¯ll take my medicines, and I can even FaceTime you when I want to. You are wee to keep an eye on me.¡±


    She didn¡¯t seem convinced, but after another brief pause, she conceded. ¡°Alright. But who will stay with you? I cane with you.¡±


    ¡°Harry will stay with me. Right, Harry?¡± I raised my voice to make sure he heard me.


    The gentleman nodded. ¡°Certainly, Miss Renee. Anything to assist you.¡±


    ¡°So, you see¡­¡± I proudly grinned at Nicole. ¡°Everything will be fine.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Okay. If it helps you feel better.¡± Nicole¡¯s doubtful expression never left her face, even as she groaned and relented.


    ¡°Yes. So can we go now?¡± She grinned as I motioned in the direction of the car.


    ¡°Yes, we can.¡±


    She unlocked the door and helped me to the backseat. Harry sat in the driver¡¯s seat and started the engine. Once the familiar hum of the engine filled the air, Nicole swung around in her seat to give me another word of advice.


    ¡°When you get to Robert¡¯s suite, and you¡¯re with all his things, you won¡¯t feel nostalgic.¡±


    I nibbled on the inside of my cheek. ¡°Nic-¡±


    She cut me off before I could finish. ¡°You¡¯re not going to cry. You¡¯ll stay strong for Robert and your child. If you want to cry, do something random to distract yourself.¡±Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    ¡°Like?¡± I asked, swallowing the knot that¡¯d formed in my throat.


    Her words struck a chord with me, and I wondered if I was such an open book. Nicole clearly envisioned what would happen when I went to Robert¡¯s suite. A room full of everything he owned, from his possessions to memories, photos, and the life he¡¯d established when he came to Ondo to be with me months ago.


    My chest tightened unpleasantly.


    ¡°You can think of your happy times with him.¡± Nicole¡¯s eyelids crinkled as she spoke, utterly oblivious to my thoughts. ¡°The good old days. The fun times. Maybe some bad times, too, but I¡¯d advise against that.¡± She winked, and I giggled.


    ¡°You can stare at his photos and reminisce. Or read a book. You have a pregnancy pamphlet in your purse. Instead of crying, you can read that.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that easy, Nicole.¡±


    ¡°Nothing is easy, my friend. But whatever you choose, don¡¯t waste time feeling bad. Be joyful. Remember, this is only temporary.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Good. Now, promise me, Renee.¡±


    I took a long breath and gently exhaled. I peered nkly ahead at the city lights whizzing by. ¡°I promise.¡±


    ~~


    When I arrived at the hotel, it waste in the evening.


    Nicole had purposefully stalled me. We stopped several times along the route. First, for lunch, then we walked down the streets of downtown Ondo, stopping sometimes to buy snacks or stretch our legs while Harry waited in some random parking lot. I knew she was trying to distract me from my worries and take my mind off things before I got to the hotel, and dare I say she seeded. I didn¡¯t think about how much I missed Robert or how unhappy and empty I felt without him.


    When we decided to depart, the sun had set, and Harry turned the car around. After dropping Nicole off at home, he¡¯d taken us back to the hotel.


    Now, I was in an elevator, on my way to the suite, with Harry by my side. The ride seemed excessively long. Too slow, and every second dragged on excruciatingly.


    Finally, the elevator door opened, and Harry led me across the corridor and into Robert¡¯s suite. He swiped the card, opened the door, and let me in.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am,¡± He called, and I turned to see him standing awkwardly, hands to the side as if unsure whether to enter.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°You can call if you need anything. I¡¯ll be at the hotel lobby below-¡±


    ¡°Nonsense. Come in.¡±


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°There are no buts, Harry. You don¡¯t have to stay outside. The suite isrge enough. Please make yourselffortable. This is much more convenient for my safety, and I know Robert would approve.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay. Thank you very much, ma¡¯am.¡± He entered the suite with a stiff nod, heading directly for the living room.


    I went into the bedroom and hurriedly undressed. I nced around, grabbed one of Robert¡¯s shirts hanging nearby, and slid it over my torso. His musky aroma flooded my nostrils, and while desperately wanting to cling to Nicole¡¯s words, I couldn¡¯t shake the mncholy that threatened to overwhelm me.


    My gaze darted about, catching bits & pieces of him. And me. My framed photos were strewn over a corner, and I noticed a cufflink with my name inscribed near the bedside table. Seeing them brought tears to my eyes, and all I wanted to do was fall to the floor and cry my heart out. But I remembered the promise I made to myself and to Nicole.


    I had to be strong for Robert and our child.


    Nostalgic memories flooded in like a tsunami, and tears gathered in my eyes, threatening to spill as I tore my gaze from the table and hurried to the bathroom.


    I washed my teeth and sprinkled some water on my face. I took a few deep breaths, gave myself a pep talk, and left the bathroom.


    Before bed, I FaceTimed Nicole and took my meds while she watched. We talked for a while, and her jokes made meugh, but bitterly.


    When we finished talking, I turned out themp near the bed and crawled between the covers. I wrapped my arms around a pillow still carrying a healthy amount of Robert¡¯s smell and, closing my eyes, tried to fall asleep.

 A Monster For Love

    But sometimes, we do sick and twisted things for the people we love. ~ Skye Warren.


    ~~


    AMANDA


    ¡°Mother!¡±


    I heard the scream before the door to the suite even opened.


    Dn. His face was flushed with rage, and his breathing was difficult as if he¡¯d run a marathon. ¡°What have you done?¡±


    The wine ss in my hand and that of Kent¡¯s froze midair as we exchanged nces, then back at my son, who stood panting and seething in the doorway.


    ¡°Dn,¡± I eximed, putting my drink down. ¡°What are you doing here? How did you get in?¡±


    He didn¡¯t respond. Instead, he took another step into the room and mmed a newspaper on the table. ¡°Exin this,¡± He demanded.


    I looked down, perplexed. Kent reached over and picked up the tabloid, bringing it closer.


    The front page read-BILLIONAIRE ROBERT CLARKE ARRESTED FOR MURDER. Photos of Robert being escorted out of his office building nked by police officers were posted beneath the headline. He was handcuffed and looked miserable.


    Well, serves him right, I thought to myself as a nasty sneer crossed my face.


    ¡°This is karma,¡± I hissed, ncing at my son, who looked at me, surprised.


    ¡°Karma, how?¡±


    ¡°You came here to discuss your father¡¯s unfortunate situation?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Well, it should teach him a lesson. It¡¯s only fair.¡±Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°How can you say such things, Mother? Did you do this?¡± He asked.


    I rolled my eyes at him but didn¡¯t answer his question. ¡°Kent, would you please excuse us?¡±


    Kent nodded and rose from his chair, dropping his wine ss. However, before he left the roompletely, I gave him anothermand that made his brow furrow.


    ¡°Take the ck box with you and deliver it as we discussed.¡±


    ¡°But, ma¡¯am. It would be dangerous if you-¡±


    ¡°No buts, Kent. Follow my instructions,¡± I snapped. ¡°Who¡¯s the boss here?¡±


    ¡°You, ma¡¯am,¡± Kent responded obediently despite his uncertainty. ¡°As usual.¡±


    ¡°Good. Now, off you go,¡± I said, waving my hand.


    He bowed, donned a glove, and picked up the ck box on the bed.


    ¡°And who¡¯s that guy? One of your fuck-toys?¡± Dn asked before Kent could exit.


    Kent halted in his tracks. I gasped in astonishment and fury at Dn¡¯s harshment.


    ¡°I wonder if he knows you¡¯ll dump him like the rest of your measly fucks and-¡±


    ¡°Dn!¡± I yelled and turned to face Kent, who hadn¡¯t moved. Instead, he just stared, stunned at me and Dn. I could see his jaw ticking.


    ¡°Kent, I¡¯m so sorry about my son. Just leave, please. And after you finish the delivery, can you call me?¡±


    Kent didn¡¯t respond right away, his countenance still surprised and irritated. Then he nodded. ¡°Of course.¡± He walked out with a slight bow, and the door closed loudly behind him.


    I turned around to face my son. ¡°Are you fucking insane? How could you speak that way to the private investigator I hired? We owe that man a lot of gratitude because he¡¯s been doing and handling our dirty work withoutint.¡±


    When he didn¡¯t speak, I became enraged and narrowed my eyes. ¡°You¡¯re going to apologize when he returns. Do you understand?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care if he¡¯s the one doing your dirty work, Mom. And I¡¯d like to emphasize that it¡¯s yours, not mine,¡± He erupted. ¡°Are you responsible for Dad¡¯s arrest?¡±


    My face paled as I reyed my son¡¯s question in my mind. I spit back at him, enraged, ¡°And what if I am?¡±


    ¡°WHAT?¡± His mouth dropped open in surprise. ¡°No, ma¡¯am. You did not.¡±


    ¡°Oh, but I did.¡± As I spoke, my lips curved into an ugly grin. Dn¡¯s cheeks flushed, and he muttered something. I ignored him and continued ¡°It¡¯s all his fault, and as I¡¯ve said, this serves him right. He started digging his grave the day he stepped out with that low-ss attention-seeking hoe.¡±


    Dn¡¯s face darkened, but I continued, unfazed.


    ¡°Your father caused this, and I won¡¯t stop until he bes mine. There will be no rest for him in this world until I heal our broken family.¡±


    The room fell silent. The only sound was our heavy breathing. His voice broke the quiet. ¡°Mend our broken family? Mother, have you gone insane?¡±


    ¡°Come on, little boy. Be careful what you say,¡± I warned. But I should have known my son would disregard my orders.


    ¡°How bitter and cruel can you get? I thought we were only going to target Renee. What happened to that n? Why bring in Father, who¡¯s innocent?¡±


    ¡°Innocent?¡± I scoffed and continued drinking my wine. ¡°Innocent, my ass. Was he innocent while he was fucking your ex-girlfriend and unting her as his arm candy?¡±


    He recoiled at my usation, a horrified expression on his face. I¡¯d struck a nerve-a sore spot. And I liked it.


    ¡°You should see your expression right now. It suits you.¡± Iughed derisively. ¡°So, don¡¯t be a fool. Get your act together. Yes, we intended to harm that bitch. But this arrest will teach your father a lesson and tie him down. Something to keep him upied while my master n for Renee cooks.¡±


    ¡°You need help,¡± Dn said matter-of-factly. ¡°You want to tie Father down by resorting to murder? Of everything in the world. Murder?¡± He half yelled. ¡°If he¡¯s found guilty, he could face the death penalty or even life in prison, and you¡¯ are this calm? Mother, what¡¯s wrong with you?¡± He asked angrily. His inquiry seemed like a plea.


    I shook my head and grabbed my wine ss, downing the contents in one swoop and returning my attention to my son, gaze unwavering. ¡°I¡¯m calm, but I¡¯m also not. Your father deserves everything he gets. In his next life, he¡¯ll tread carefully and prioritize his family,¡± I finished with a hiss.


    With a nasty look, I dropped my wine ss and strolled towards my son. I lifted my hand to caress his chin but stopped mid-movement when he flinched away from my touch.


    ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± He warned stiffly.


    ¡°But why?¡± Iughed. ¡°I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re acting so agitated when you should be celebrating with me. Remember, you¡¯re on my side. We mapped out a n together. What¡¯s happening to all that? How-¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a monster.¡± Dn cut me off, a look of displeasure on his face. ¡°Oh, my gosh. I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m hearing this.¡±


    ¡°A monster?¡± I repeated. ¡°Well, if I¡¯m a monster for love, then I¡¯ll dly ept it.¡±


    ¡°Can you even listen to yourself?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I can.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve taken this too far. This is all because you are obsessed with revenge. Why can¡¯t you just stop?¡±


    ¡°Stop? No, I can¡¯t, and I¡¯m not going to. Not until I have your father back at my side. Not until he looks at me the same way he looks at that gold-digging scumbag. Not until he apologizes,vishes me with presents, and treats me like a queen.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God, Mother. You¡¯re revolting.¡±


    My fury rose in response to his remarks. I raised my hand to p him. As he lurched backward, his face turned zing red.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever talk to me like that again,¡± I snarled. ¡°As your mother, I demand respect from you. Especially after everything I¡¯ve done for you.¡±


    ¡°Everything you¡¯ve done for me?¡± He spat with clenched teeth. ¡°And what exactly is that? Have you forgotten how you tricked me into stealing from Dad when I was 18 years old? How you pushed me to rebel against him till he couldn¡¯t take it any longer and cut off my inheritance? Or should I remind you how you took advantage of me, fabricating lies? You told me it was for a good cause. But we both know it was all just for you.¡±


    In mute disbelief, I lifted my brow. ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°Yes, excuse you. My entire life, you made me do everything you wanted, trying to get money. Yes, I had my problems, and I was sometimes stubborn, belligerent, and rebellious, but you made me that way. You selfishly destroyed any rtionship I could¡¯ve had with that man.¡±


    ¡°Dn!¡± I screamed in fury, but he persisted.


    ¡°You remember the family get-together you nned when younded in Ondo. You told me not toe despite how badly I wanted to. You told me to take care of my other problem, and you¡¯d take care of the meeting, but I should¡¯ve known better than to trust you. You¡¯re all about yourself, and everything you do centers around your sick, twisted fantasies-¡±


    ¡°Shut your filthy mouth this instant.¡±


    ¡°No, I won¡¯t. I¡¯ll tell you to your face, Mother, and I don¡¯t care what you do to me after that. You have single-handedly destroyed me. You used me. Made my life miserable. Made my life hell!¡±


    Dn¡¯s outburst took me entirely by surprise. His words pierced my heart, and I couldn¡¯t say anything back. There was no use disputing his usations. Once he was finished, he would leave. That much was clear.


    But then he said something unbelievable, stunning me. ¡°You¡¯ve gone too far with this revenge game, and I won¡¯t be part of it. I can¡¯t do it. I can¡¯t sit back and watch you ruin my father¡¯s reputation.¡±


    ¡°What are you saying?¡± I scowled, but he ignored me.


    ¡°How did you frame him for murder? Who¡¯s the real killer? You or your so-called aide?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡­don¡¯t ask me that.¡± I felt the blood drain from my cheeks, and a wave of disorientation flood over me.


    ¡°You did it, didn¡¯t you?¡± His usations, along with the hatred and loathing dancing all over his face, were enough to cause a scream to escape my throat. ¡°Get out!¡± I yelled, pointing at the front door.


    ¡°I¡¯m disappointed in you,¡± Dn said as he walked toward the door.


    ¡°Get the hell out! Get out and nevere back. Stay away from me, and by God, if you do anything dumb, I¡¯ll destroy you!¡±


    He turned to face me with an expression of pity and remorse.


    ¡°I only hope you realize your mistake before it¡¯s toote. I¡¯m not a saint, and I still haven¡¯t forgiven Dad for sleeping with my ex. But this? My conscience won¡¯t allow it,¡± He mumbled faintly. ¡°I wish you the best. Bye, Mother.¡±


    As he walked out, the door mmed heavily behind him, and the sound echoed through the halls. I covered my face and curled in on myself, rocking back and forth as an angry scream ripped my throat. I copsed onto the floor, my knees raised and my arms wrapped about them.


    My son called me a monster. He said I was repulsive and mentally ill. What if I was? I didn¡¯t care! I absolutely didn¡¯t give a fuck!


    My REVENGE was all that mattered now, and I was going to take my vengeance and make it bloody count!

 The Black Box

    ROBERT


    ¡°I suggest youy low for a while, Mr. rke,¡± Mr. Patrick began as the sleek ck car raced out of the station and into traffic. ¡°The situation is delicate. Given your reputation, a lot of people are watching you right now. Watching your every move and anything you do.¡±


    I was tempted to tell him to fuck it. And fuck them all. I didn¡¯t care what they said, how they perceived me, or what they did. The media and everyone else could go fuck themselves with their little white lies because my conscience was clear. I did not kill the man. I was being framed. That¡¯s all there was to this.


    But instead, I sat silently and listened to mywyer speak. He droned on and on about the charges against me-like I hadn¡¯t heard all of it before-and everything I needed to do to avoid getting into any further trouble. He discussed his ns, the ongoing investigations, and the legalities involved. I didn¡¯t pay much attention to thetter part. In fact, at some point, I stopped listening entirely, and my thoughts wandered to a faraway ce where none of this mattered.


    A ce where only tranquility existed, and I was with the one person capable of calming my racing heart with a simple touch. The warmth of her hand would caress my skin gently. Her soft words would soothe the hurt in my soul and alleviate my fears.


    ¡°You¡¯re not listening,¡± Mr. Patrick remarked sternly, pulling me back to the present. ¡°Mr. rke!¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I stared up at him nkly. ¡°Sorry, can we pause this conversation until we get to the suite?¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯re going straight to Miss Micheal¡¯s apartment after you-¡±


    ¡°When I get back, we¡¯ll talk about it,¡± I interrupted, waving him off. My gaze was riveted on the road. ¡°Please.¡±


    After a few awkward moments of silence, Mr. Patrick spoke, ¡°All I want you to know is that we don¡¯t have time to understand everything. If you want the investigative team to prove your innocence without further damaging your reputation, you¡­¡± He trailed off, sighing heavily. He must¡¯ve realized I was still not paying attention to him. ¡°I understand this is difficult, sir. But it¡¯s imperative that you cooperate with the investigation. For both our sakes, please.


    ¡°I understand. And I appreciate everything you¡¯re doing, Mr. Patrick.¡± I nodded, letting him know I meant every word. ¡°But please give me some space. I just got off the solitary and need to get myself together. I also need to see Renee, and I guarantee you that when I do, you will have my undivided attention.¡±


    The brief hush that followed my statement was oppressive. I broke it off as I continued. ¡°I told you yesterday, when you came, that we would not ck on this case, and I sincerely mean it. I mean, I¡¯m the one being framed here, and I know how much this issue has cost me. This situation has negatively impacted mypany, career, and life so I won¡¯t take it lightly.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Mr. rke. And you¡¯re correct. ¡°You do need some rest,¡± Mr. Patrick said, finally epting the bait. ¡°But I¡¯ll be waiting in the suite when you depart. When you return, we shall begin.¡±


    ¡°Noted.¡±


    The remainder of the drive was spent in peaceful butfortable silence, and we soon arrived at my destination-the hotel.


    As we approached the valet parking lot, I cursed at the impending bustle outside the building-the paparazzi.


    At the same time, Mr. Patrick warned, ¡°Looks like we¡¯ve gotpany.¡± He frowned as he observed the crowd of photographers gathered at the hotel¡¯s entrance.


    Reporters and journalists gathered around us, pointing their cameras in our direction. No wonder the station had been deserted and quiet because, like the fucking vultures they were, they¡¯d been hereying in wait for hours.


    ¡°Someone at the station must¡¯ve tipped them off about your release,¡± Mr. Patrick murmured, sounding mildly annoyed. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s try to keep a low profile.¡±


    With thosest words, he exited the car, and I followed suit, stepping onto the pavement. Camera shes shot out immediately, nearly blinding me. I braced myself for the attack. Fortunately, three security guards appeared concealing me from the onught.


    Mr. Patrick turned to me. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    I gasped, ¡°Yes¡­yes, I am.¡±


    When he spoke again, his voice grew somewhat louder. ¡°Just be as normal as possible. Don¡¯t speak or make eye contact with anyone. Walk and maintain that stride until we reach the hotel.¡±


    I nodded stiffly, doing as instructed. Mr. Patrick kept a pace ahead.


    With the crowd surrounding us and obstructing our view, he grabbed my arm and led me through the swarm of reporters and straight toward the hotel.


    The hotel workers greeted me warmly as we passed, but I said nothing in return. I simply nodded and waved my hand in acknowledgment.


    We quickly stood before the elevator doors, and Mr. Patrick pressed the buttons impatiently. They opened almost instantly with a chirp, and we entered.


    The doors closed, our ascent to the apartment began, and he turned to face me. ¡°Are you willing to go through this whole thing again?¡±


    ¡°What thing?¡±


    ¡°The paparazzi. They won¡¯t leave right away. You could¡¯ve gone directly to Miss Micheal¡¯s apartment from the station.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± I said, staring at the floor, my voice low. ¡°I don¡¯t want her seeing me in this disheveled state.¡±


    Mr. Patrick expressed amazement, ¡°Oh¡­¡± He said nothing else, and neither did I.


    We rode the elevator in silence till we reached the suite¡¯s floor. The doors slid open, revealing a corridor devoid of human activity and flickering lights. I ran out and went right to my door, swiping the card mywyer had given me.


    With a click, the door slid open, allowing me to enter the penthouse suite. However, as I walked in, I met a surprise.


    Harry, Renee¡¯s bodyguard, sat on the couch eating what appeared to be pasta. I froze. Mr. Patrick did as well.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    When he noticed me, he stood up and gave a deep bow. ¡°Wee, Mr. rk. I-¡±


    ¡°What are you doing here? How did you get inside? I never gave you an ess card, did I?¡± I asked, brow furrowing as I struggled to recall.


    ¡°No, you didn¡¯t. Miss-¡± Harry began, but a feminine squeak cut him off.


    ¡°Robert!¡±


    My head jerked to the side toward that voice. And there she was-my Renee.


    Her hair was pulled back in a rough ponytail, and she wore my oversized sweater, shorts, and no slippers. She had a cooking spoon in her hand and just stepped out of the kitchen, but the sight before me utterly took my breath away.


    Her eyes twinkled, her lips broadened into a smile that rivaled my stunned one, and she flew across the room, throwing herself into my arms.


    ¡°Renee, what are you doing¡­¡± I started but was cut short when she began sobbing into my chest.


    ¡°Oh, Robert.¡± Her voice was barely audible, muffled by my clothing. ¡°Wee home. Wee,¡± she said, her arms tightening around my waist.


    I returned the embrace, clutching tight. ¡°Thanks, my girl. I missed you.¡±


    ¡°I missed you, too.¡± She drew back and inspected me closely, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I¡­I was so worried, and I kept looking at the clock, counting each minute till you arrived.¡±


    A smile tugged on the edges of my lips. ¡°It¡¯s fine now, baby. I¡¯m back. I¡¯m home and here with you.¡± I drew her close again, kissing her cheek. I gave her a long kiss on the forehead, but it wasn¡¯t enough. Renee reached out to cup my jaw and draw my face to hers.


    Her lips met mine, and as usual, I didn¡¯t hesitate. Our tongues shed instantly, sending electric shocks through me, kindling something deep within.


    She whimpered against my lips before gently drawing away. She wasn¡¯t done, though. She continued kissing my cheeks, forehead, nose, and neck. Everywhere and anywhere, she could reach.


    ¡°God, Renee¡­you¡¯re making breathing hard for me,¡± I joked, and she chuckled despite the tears in her eyes.


    ¡°Sorry. It¡¯s just¡­¡± She sniffled. ¡°I missed you, Robert, more than you know.¡±


    I slid my hands over her shoulders, rubbing gently.


    ¡°You do not need to exin anything, baby. I understand,¡± I said, kissing her forehead. ¡°Why are you here, though?¡±


    I couldn¡¯t help asking. I wasn¡¯t expecting to see her here.


    She shrugged. ¡°After I left the station, I told Harry to drive me straight here.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± A sad smile yed on her lips. ¡°I guess I just wanted to be close to you in any way I could.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Renee,¡± I whispered, burying my head in the hollow between her shoulder and neck.


    I remained there for a long time, savoring every second and simply holding her in my arms, satisfied to stay this way until something or someone pushed us apart.


    The two men in the room, Mr. Patrick and Harry, coughed uneasily and averted their gazes. My lips tightened into a frown.


    Renee¡¯s skin flushed scarlet with embarrassment, and she hastily released me. She turned to face my attorney. ¡°Hello, Mr. Patrick.¡±


    ¡°Hello to you, too, Miss Micheal,¡± He said warmly, smiling slightly. Offering a half-hearted apology to Renee, he spoke again. ¡°I¡¯m surprised to see you here, yet it is a warm wee. Perfect because you¡¯ve just rescued Mr. rke from dealing with the press again.¡±


    ¡°The press?¡± Renee inquired, and Mr. Patrick nodded.


    ¡°Yes, the press,¡± He repeated. ¡°There was quite a scene downstairs when we arrived and given that he¡¯d only returned to the suite to change before heading to your apartment, we were wondering how he¡¯d handle it again. However, with you present, you¡¯ve prevented him from being caught in that situation. So, thank you.¡±


    Renee was startled following his exnation and turned to me. ¡°You were going to go to my ce?¡±


    I nodded slowly.


    ¡°But¡­why¡­?¡±


    ¡°Is this really a question?¡± I asked, lifting a puzzled brow. ¡°I wanted to see my baby. That¡¯s all.¡±


    A light blush blossomed on her cheeks, and the corners of her lips curved upwards.


    ¡°Hm¡­¡± She kissed my lips again before turning to Mr. Patrick. ¡°Thank you for caring for Robert and bringing him home safely.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Now, if you¡¯ll both excuse us¡­¡± She looked at Harry and then back to Mr. Patrick. ¡°Mr. rke needs a warm shower, clean clothes, good food, and some loving,¡± She said with a wink. Without waiting for an answer, she grabbed my arm and directed me away. ¡°C¡¯mon, babe. I need to take care of you. You look and smell like trash!¡±


    ¡°Hey!¡± I eximed, looking behind us at Mr. Patrick, who was trying hard not tough.¡± His attempts failed, so he gave a false salute.


    ¡°Good luck, Mr. rke,¡± He said, and the sound of hisughter was thest thing I heard before Renee shut the bedroom door.


    ~~


    A few hourster, I felt much better. Clean, fed, and clothed appropriately. Most importantly, I was happy.


    I was with my girl. I was home. And in the minutes, that¡¯d passed, it seemed to be the only thing that mattered. But it wasn¡¯t. Not exactly.


    There were other crucial issues, such as the investigation and the press. I still needed to discover the jerk who was out to ruin my life with this murder case. And I needed to find out why. Why did they do this? Was it a psychotic vendetta against me? Was there something else going on? Something beyond the situation? Something I couldn¡¯t understand? Something more sinister?


    All these thoughts and more raced through my mind as I entered the suite¡¯s living room, wine ss in one hand and Renee¡¯s in the other.


    Mr. Patrick was back, and he sat on a sofa, arms crossed. Harry also satfortably on an adjacent couch.


    There was a pile of paperwork in front of them-presumably investigation-rted documents.


    ¡°Ah, there you are!¡± Mr. Patrick eximed as I approached. He gave Renee a warm smile before returning his attention to me: ¡°You should recheck these documents,¡± He said, pointing to the pile in front of him.


    ¡°Of course,¡± I muttered, sitting next to him and drawing Renee to my side as we began reading through the stack of papers.


    We spent about thirty minutes thoroughly reviewing each file and the statements presented. But we finished quickly, and I found myself nkly staring at the documents in my hands.


    I frowned,pletely bewildered. None of the reports made sense to me. They contained nothing substantial, but everything added to one massive picture that was never supposed to exist. The death of Darren-the man I had beaten to a pulp in the club.


    But how? It was nearlyughable. Despite theck of rity, I noticed Mr. Patrick¡¯s unusual silence. His eyes were fixed on his tablet, and his finger was continually hovering over the screen, tapping furiously, appearing captivated. I cleared my throat slightly, and he looked up at me.


    ¡°There isn¡¯t much to cover here. Mr. Patrick. And these questions you wrote down¡­¡± I waved a sheet of paper at him. ¡°They¡¯re useless. These witnesses aren¡¯t credible, and no evidence links their statements to the crime. If we go to court, I won¡¯te out innocent. So, what¡¯s the point? What¡¯s this even supposed to mean?¡±


    He shook his head gently. ¡°Isn¡¯t that the million-dor question?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± I frowned again.¡±By the way, where is the club footage from that night? Why isn¡¯t it¡­?¡±


    Renee abruptly cut me off mid-sentence. Her attention was fixed on her phone. ¡°Robert, Nicole is here.¡±


    ¡°Here? For what?¡± I asked but received no answer. She was already on her feet, running to the suite¡¯s entrance.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, should Ie with you?¡± Harry inquired, rising to his feet.


    ¡°No, thank you. I¡¯ll handle this myself.¡± Her voice was brusque, and despite her expressionless demeanor, I knew something was wrong. Whatever she saw on her phone must have bothered her deeply.


    I followed her movement, watching as she swiped the card through the reader, opening the door.


    Nicole stood in the suite¡¯s doorway.


    She seemed frightened and uneasy. As if something was scaring her to death. She stood still, wide-eyed and shaking, her palm fisted in a material resembling a ck stic bag.


    ¡°Nicole. What¡¯s the matter?¡± Renee started, but Nicole interrupted her, her voice quivering slightly.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± Her gaze immediately went from her friend to me, and the look she gave as our gazes linked made me grimace. ¡°There¡¯s trouble.¡±


    She took a step closer, her motions frantic, terror engraved into every line on her face. Then she removed something from the bag she¡¯d brought, dropping it to the floor. ¡°This was left outside our apartment. And whoever dropped it has a message for you.¡±


    A ck box. A huge one. With a cover that felt so hefty, it couldn¡¯t hold what was inside. My pulse started hammering as Renee¡¯s look shifted into one I didn¡¯t recognize. She reached down to collect the box, but before she could open it, Mr. Patrick stopped her.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t touch it!¡± He said sharply. ¡°The contents might be hazardous. We don¡¯t know what¡¯s inside.¡± He paused, looking at Nicole. ¡°Or do you?¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°I¡­I don¡¯t. I didn¡¯t open it. But¡­¡± She reached into her jacket and brought out a small note. ¡°This was on the box.¡±


    She gave it to Mr. Patrick. His expression transformed to disbelief and fear as he examined the paper.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Renee and I asked in union.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­it¡¯s a letter. From an anonymous sender¡­¡± He swallowed hard. ¡°To Miss Micheal.¡±

 Love’s Fatal Abyss

    RENEE


    ¡®THIS IS WHAT YOUR VILE, DESPICABLE BOYFRIEND DID!


    YOU ARE SHARING YOUR HEART WITH A COLD-BLOODED MURDERER WHO GETS HIGH ON THE PUTRID FUMES OF DEATH AND DECAY, AND IT WON¡¯T BE LONG BEFORE YOU¡¯RE JUST ANOTHER BODY BURIED IN HIS YARD.


    HE IS A SOULLESS BASTARD WHO LEAVES A TRAIL OF DESTRUCTION IN HIS WAKE. HE SHATTERS LIVES & DESTROYS THINGS.


    HE DESTROYED HIS FAMILY, AND YOU¡¯RE NEXT ON THE LIST.


    OR DO YOU THINK YOU¡¯RE SPECIAL? YOU¡¯RE NOT. LOVING HIM WILL DRAG YOU INTO THE ABYSS. IT WILL SUCK YOU DRY. IT WILL LEAVE YOU SCARRED, BROKEN, AND EMPTY.


    SO, GET OUT WHILE YOU STILL CAN.


    YOU SHOULD RUN BEFORE HE DESTROYS WHAT¡¯S LEFT OF YOUR SANITY.


    RUN BEFORE HIS POISONOUS GRASP ENVELOPES YOU.


    RUN, RENEE MICHEAL. RUN. OR ELSE YOU WILL PAY IN THE MOST UNIMAGINABLE WAY.¡¯


    As I said farewell to Nicole and watched her leave the suite with Harry, these words reyed in my mind like an endless echo.


    I couldn¡¯t stop it. I couldn¡¯t block or drive it out of my mind because it kept returning, like some weird, perverse version of a mantra.


    Every word written in that anonymous sender¡¯s note had been etched into my brain, and there was no way to erase it now, not even if I wanted to.


    I turned away from the door, passed the living room, where Robert was deeply conversing with hiswyer, and entered the bedroom.


    ¡°You are sharing your heart with a cold-blooded murderer who gets high on the foul smells of death and decay, and it won¡¯t be long before you are nothing more than ANOTHER BODY BURIED IN HIS YARD.¡±


    Dazed, I slid down onto a nearby couch and buried my face in my hands. I tried to block the words from my thoughts. But to no avail.


    ¡°RUN, RENEE MICHEAL, RUN.¡±Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    The warning rang out in my head. Along with it came a reminder of what we¡¯d discovered in the ck box.


    Pieces of decaying flesh. Bits of human organs that had been ripped clean out. Broken bones. Blood and more blood.


    There were pictures, too. Photos from that night at the club. Of Darren and Robert fighting. And then more pictures of Darren lying dead in a narrow alleyway, his neck shattered, broken, and bloodied.


    Everything was so horrible to look at, and I¡¯d stumbled, desperately attempting to ignore the nausea, the pain, and the horrific images assaulting my brain.


    Nicole hurried toward me, her face pale but her steps quick. I heard her yelling after me as I started to walk away, but I didn¡¯t look around. I didn¡¯t stop. I walked until my legs failed me. I lost all of my strength and copsed on the ground.


    ¡°Renee, please¡­¡± She¡¯d begged, but I didn¡¯t understand why. I could scarcely register what came after.


    Iy there on the floor, staring nkly ahead and into space, unable toprehend what was happening.


    I¡¯d heard Robert¡¯s angry snarl from the living room. Then, there was the sound of something smashing and orders being yelled out in solid tones. I didn¡¯t pay any attention to that, though.


    Nicole had crouched alongside me, and as I felt the heat of her trembling hands against mine, I tried to pull away, but she tightened her grip, leaving me with no choice.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡± She called out softly again, this time in an attempt to console me, and that¡¯s when I lost it.


    As if emerging from a haze, tears flowed freely, and I cried. I sobbed. I shed tears for Darren, for the innocent young man whose life was brutally cut short¡­because of me.


    ¡°I caused this, Nicole. I did.¡± I¡¯d mumbled brokenly between sobs. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t gone to the club that night¡­he wouldn¡¯t-¡±


    ¡°No. No. It wasn¡¯t your fault, Renee. You¡¯re not ountable. Don¡¯t even say that.¡±


    ¡°But¡­but it¡¯s the truth.¡±


    ¡°It is not. Do you know what type of guy he was? Do you know if he had somebody on his tail that night?¡±


    ¡°Still, he didn¡¯t¡­¡± I started to say something, but she cut me off. ¡°Your meeting was fortuitous, Renee, and don¡¯t forget he attempted to drug you. I hate to say this, and I know he didn¡¯t deserve what he got, but perhaps he just tasted his karma in the worst way conceivable. It¡¯s not your responsibility that happened, girl.¡±


    Her final words were very gentle, as if she wasn¡¯t sure of herself, which worried me. She was merely saying this to make me feel better, but she knew the truth. She knew that man¡¯s life was doomed when it became intertwined with mine. I knew it, too.


    I mean, Robert beat him to a pulp just for touching me. I¡¯d thought of the possibility that Robert might¡¯ve killed Darren just as the note imed.


    His rage might have triggered something in him making him go full beast mode, doing much more than he thought. But still, he¡¯d given me his word, and I believed Robert. I truly did. If he said he didn¡¯t do it, then that was the truth.


    With my thoughts spiraling, I began to sob loudly, burying my face in Nicole¡¯s shoulders while I wept.


    Crying was easier than talking. And somehow, my best friend understood. She stroked my hair and whispered calming words into my ear till the storm within me faded. Not once did she-


    ¡°Renee.¡± Robert¡¯s deep voice sliced through my thoughts in an unrelenting whisper, bringing me back to reality. He stood in front of me, his eyes full of concern. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    I blink slowly. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± He gently nudged my cheek, reaching out with his right hand to touch it. The contact sent sparks racing over my skin. ¡°You seemed lost in thought when I walked in. What were you thinking about?¡±


    ¡°No¡­nothing,¡± I stammered out the lie. ¡°Why are you here? Where is Mr. Patrick?¡± I looked past him into the living room.


    ¡°He already left. You must¡¯ve missed it.¡±


    Of course, I did. My mind was too preupied with everything happening. I was so busy running in confusing circles that I couldn¡¯t concentrate on anything else.


    I nodded numbly. ¡°Right.¡±


    ¡°Baby¡­¡± Robert pulled me up with one arm and held me tight. My knees buckled somewhat from the pressure. ¡°Talk to me.¡±


    ¡°About?¡± I fluttered my half-wetshes and averted my gaze. I couldn¡¯t force myself to look at him directly. If I did, I¡¯d break down again. Cry wildly and inconsbly. I did not want that.


    ¡°You know exactly what I¡¯m talking about, Renee. Something¡¯s bothering you?¡± He grimaced. ¡°I don¡¯t like the look on your face.¡±


    A whimper escaped my lips. I covered them with my palms and squeezed my eyes shut. The tears flowed again, hot and salty. I couldn¡¯t help it. They just slipped out.


    ¡°Oh, Renee¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m scared,¡± I blurted out without meaning to. ¡°I¡¯m freaking afraid, Robert. That¡¯s not so hard to understand, is it?¡±


    His arms eased over me slightly, almost giving way, but not quite. ¡°Easy. Easy.¡±


    ¡°Easy? Are you telling me to take it easy?¡± I scoffed. ¡°You just got out of jail today, and while I thought everything was going well, boom, this happened. And all you say is EASY?¡±


    He exhaled.


    ¡°Every time I close my eyes, all I see are those images. Those photos of Darren¡¯s lifeless body bleeding all over that alley.¡± As I continued, I felt a shudder run through my body. ¡°And then to think that all this could¡¯ve been prevented if I hadn¡¯t stepped foot in that club and I-¡±


    ¡°Oh, for Christ¡¯s sake, stop ming yourself, Renee,¡± He interrupted, pulling back and shaking his head in disdain. ¡°How many times do I have to tell you that none of this has anything to do with you? And it¡¯s crazy that you continue to me yourself when you shouldn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°Whoever brought that package, wrote that note, and made those sick and twisted ims has a very deep grudge against me. That¡¯s it.¡± His tone was soft, and he caressed my cheek. ¡°This has nothing to do with you, dear. Nothing at all.¡±


    ¡°How did they get those things?¡± I was referring to the photos and fleshy bits found in the box.


    ¡°The photos can be sourced from the. As for the organs, we have no idea if they belong to Darren. His body was sent in for an autopsy, so I doubt it¡¯s his. I think the anonymous sender was trying to send a message. That¡¯s all.¡±


    There was a brief silence before I spoke again, admitting in a low murmur. ¡°I¡¯m still scared, Robert.¡± I looked up to meet his stare, and my eyes watered for the hundredth time.


    I wanted to add that I was scared for both him and us. I was worried about our future and the child growing inside my womb. But I kept my mouth shut.


    Now wasn¡¯t the perfect time to say that. I couldn¡¯t tell him about our child, not with the entire situation throwing us off guard. It¡¯d justplicate issues further and make things worse. Even Nicole cautioned against it, and just before she left, she told me to chill for a little while.


    ¡°But you don¡¯t have to be scared.¡± Once again, Robert¡¯s voice pierced through my thoughts. ¡°We¡¯ll be alright.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re sure?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± He chuckled softly, the sound sending warm tingles through my entire being. ¡°I have things under control. And besides, Cade is flying in tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I blinked in amazement. ¡°I mean, why?¡±


    An odd expression crossed his face, but it disappeared as quickly as it came. ¡°To help. He has one of the best and most well-known investigative teams in the country.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah. And I need all the assistance I can get.¡± My brows furrowed as he continued. ¡°Funny how he offered to help with the case when I informed him about the frame-up in Aspen. But, I declined.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I had no tangible reason at the time. I thought I could manage it. But now, with all of these threats, I have no choice but to use every resource at my disposal. And that¡¯s where Cadees in.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­that makes sense.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it does, doesn¡¯t it?¡± He leaned down for a brief kiss on the lips. ¡°But enough about all that.¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we forget about the box, the threats, and our problems and simply enjoy the evening? We could see a movie. Perhaps something frightening or humorous. Anything that tickles your fancy, but most importantly, whatever puts you, my darling, in a happy mood.¡±


    I couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    He was doing it again. Doing that thing where he managed to make me feel at ease with his words. Hearing him make even the slightest bit of fun while we were in this predicament was enough to put things back on track, although momentarily.


    ¡°Okay,¡± I mumbled as he led me out of the room. ¡°Let¡¯s do it.¡±

 Tom’s Call

    ROBERT


    I buttoned my cor, straightened thepel of my suit coat, and faked a grin as I nced at myself in the mirror. But the image staring back at me was different.


    Despite wearing a dark blue fitted pinstripe suit and matching shirt, the man I saw was not the same as the joyous soul who¡¯d been in Aspen days before. The same man who¡¯d been fantasizing day and night about a beautiful future with the love of his life. No. This man resembled someone from another era, another world. His countenance was nk, a hint of worry in his eyes. But more than anything, the darkness surrounding him made me feel uneasy. It was so¡­dark. And cold. Like an empty cavern.


    I hated myself for putting him through all of this suffering. He shouldn¡¯t feel this way. I shouldn¡¯t. But I couldn¡¯t help it.


    Thest week had altered me in ways I hadn¡¯t thought possible. The murder case was taking its toll on me. It felt like a massive weight on my shoulders, threatening to drag me down and crush me from all sides. It made me vulnerable and suffocated me from the inside out. Even the happy facade I put up around Renee yesterday was slipping. I could see it.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± I whispered under my breath, stroking my hands over the muscles in my face. I tried to relieve the strain in my hands that I hadn¡¯t realized was there until they began to shake.


    ¡°This needs to end. I need to find this motherfucker, and once I do, I¡¯ll-¡±


    ¡°Robert?¡±


    I froze. My head snapped toward the bed, and I blinked, seeing Renee across the room.


    She was propped against the headboard, one hand grasping a pillow and the otherzily hung over the edge. Her hair was tangled, and her face was stained with sleep, yet she still looked stunning. The sunshine through the suite¡¯s window caught her perfectly, giving her skin a golden sheen and emphasizing every contour and feature I wanted to remember forever.


    ¡°Hi, baby,¡± I croaked, ¡°Good morning.¡±


    ¡°Morning.¡± She yawned, blinking rapidly. ¡°You¡¯re already dressed. Where are you headed?¡±


    ¡°Remember what we talked aboutst night?¡±


    ¡°Uh, yeah?¡±


    ¡°I have an hour-long video conference with my investors at the office. I¡¯ll meet Cade, his investigation team, and mywyer there. The city¡¯s police forensics team arrived this morning to pick up the box fromst night. The results will be sent inter.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Today is going to be very stressful for me, love.¡±


    ¡°My goodness.¡± She frowned. ¡°How long did I sleep? What¡¯s the time?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ste,¡± I said, staring at my Rolex. ¡°Almost 10 a. m.¡±


    I watched her face immediately crumple, and I moved toward the bed.


    ¡°Shit! I must¡¯ve slept deep. That¡¯s so unlike me. I¡¯m usually a light sleeper.¡±


    I scoffed at thatment but kept my mouth shut and bit my tongue to avoidughing.


    ¡°Baby girl,¡± I reached out and brushed my fingers through her hair. She leaned toward my touch. ¡°You don¡¯t sleep light.¡±


    Instantly, she pulled back from me, scowling. ¡°Yes, I do.¡±


    ¡°No, you don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I do,¡± she insisted, ring at me. She crossed her arms, appearing defensive and furious. ¡°Don¡¯t make a big deal of this.¡±


    I raised my hands in mock salute and nodded. ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I feel terrible. I should¡¯ve gotten up earlier and helped you get dressed.¡± A sigh escaped her lips. ¡°Do you still need anything else? I can get it for you quickly. Have you had breakfast?¡±


    I chuckled softly at her concern and, at the same time, felt a pang in my chest. Listening to her voice gave me a sense of tranquility only she could provide. That happy facade that was slipping away earlier sprang back up.


    ¡°I have eaten.¡± I stood up and straightened my coat. ¡°In fact, Harry and I became rather adept in the kitchen this morning. We made breakfast.¡±


    ¡°Ugh.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± I took a tray from the table by the door and ced it on the dresser beside the bed.


    ¡°Breakfast. Your favorite. Eggs sunny side up, crispy bacon, and a fruit bowl with berries, orange slices, bananas, pecans, walnuts, and raisins.¡±


    ¡°Raisins?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. You love them, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but not in my condition.¡± Her face turned pale as if in distaste.


    ¡°What condition?¡± I asked, frowning. My hand hovered over her forehead as I tried to figure out why she sounded so upset. ¡°Renee, are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± She swallowed hard and closed her eyes. When she opened them, her entire demeanor changed, and a sweet grin appeared on her lips. ¡°Thank you, Robert. This was quite thoughtful of you.¡±


    While I was dissatisfied with her response, I let it go. A voice in my head told me there was more than she was letting on, but I ignored it for now.


    ¡°Of course, baby girl. Anything for you.¡± I kissed her on the forehead. ¡°I gotta go now, Renee.¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± She grabbed my wrist as I stood to exit the room. Her grip was tight and firm, drawing me back to the bed. She raised a hand and ced it softly on my cheek. ¡°I know it¡¯s selfish of me, but could you perhaps stay for a moment longer?¡± She licked her bottom nervously. ¡°Please?¡±


    I smiled and leaned into her palm. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Her fingertips stroked my jawline before softly drifting south till her palm gripped my neck. She raised her hand to cup my cheek with a surprising tenderness, drawing my gaze to hers.


    She said, ¡°Hey, babe¡­¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡±


    ¡°I knew you couldn¡¯t sleepst night.¡±


    My eyes widened slightly, and my heartbeat increased.


    ¡°Why would you say that?¡±


    ¡°I was awake for a while and noticed you tossing and turning. Then you left the bedroom and went to the living room. You studied some paperwork for a few seconds or minutes before heading to the wine bar. I saw you grab a bottle and then head to the balcony. You stayed there for a long time.¡±


    My lips tightened involuntarily.


    ¡°Or at least that¡¯s what I thought because I fell asleep shortly after.¡± She let out a mncholy giggle. ¡°Deeply, till this morning. Ughhh. I am such a lousy girlfriend, I know.¡±


    ¡°You aren¡¯t.¡± I shot back, and she simply sighed, tracing a thumb along my lower lip.


    ¡°I know you¡¯re concerned about this case, and I am, too. The odds aren¡¯t looking good, but I want you to know that I believe in you. You¡¯lle out unscathed. I know you will.¡±


    A sob rose unbidden, and she brushed her lips gently against mine before pulling away.


    ¡°There. I hope you feel better now,¡± she teased, caressing my cheek with both hands.


    The corner of my mouth twitched upward. ¡°Thank you, Renee. I needed that.¡±


    ¡°I can tell.¡± She snickered. ¡°Now get out of here. Go kick ass and catch that bastard.¡±


    I stood from the bed and let out a quietugh. ¡°Do I look like someone who just got out of jail?¡±


    ¡°What? No! Are you seriously asking me that?¡±


    ¡°Well, do I look good?¡±


    ¡°Of course you do, my love. Why bother with my opinion?¡±


    ¡°Because it¡¯s the only thing that matters to me.¡±


    A flush rose on her cheeks.


    I began walking away. ¡°Goodbye, baby girl, love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you too, Robert. See you tonight.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely.¡± I smiled. ¡°If you ever feel lonely, just contact Nicole. And if you need anything, Harry is in the living room. He¡¯ll get it for you.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± she said, smiling and waving as I exited the room. As I shut the door behind me, I heard her shout from inside. ¡°Stay safe, Robert. I mean it!¡±


    ~~


    The day flew past with a whirlwind of activities, appointments, and other details I couldn¡¯t keep track of.


    Cade¡¯s team worked tirelessly all day, collecting notes and looking for every possible lead in the case. They were extremely thorough in their investigations. They were extensively trained inw enforcement and interrogation techniques and exceptionally intelligent, making them an ideal fit for the task at hand.


    At some point, they¡¯d left the office with Cade to return to the crime scene in search of clues that must have gone unnoticed during the initial investigation, while I stayed in the office with my assistant, Mark, Mr Patrick, and a few officers.


    Renee called several times to make sure I was okay. It was soothing to hear her voice. It was the only thing keeping me sane in this chaos.


    It waste noon, however, when I received an unexpected, strange phone call-a call that would change my life forever.


    ¡°Hello?¡± My words were weed with silence. There was no response. No sound other than the steady breathinging over the line.


    ¡°Hello?¡± I repeated with a slight edge in my tone. Again, silence. Only the faint sounds of traffic and people walking could be heard in the background. It felt like the person on the other end was moving, trying to find a quieter location.


    ¡°Who is this?¡± I asked again.


    Another pause. More movement and rustling. Then silence. Finally, a quiet, gravelly voice muttered. ¡°Hello. Am I¡­ Mr. rke?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Who is this?¡±


    ¡°Holy shit!¡± He gasped, and the sudden outburst hit me like a punch to the gut.


    That ent. The southward tilt. The familiar drawl. It was unmistakably familiar to me, and yet it couldn¡¯t be¡­


    No, it wasn¡¯t him. It¡¯d been years since I heard that voice. Since I¡¯d made a quiet pledge never to see him again. Not after the night in June when I discovered him fucking my pregnant wife. That night¡­ that damned night when the friendship we¡¯d built crumbled, shattering as easily as ss in the wind.


    I swallowed heavily and closed my eyes. The memories flooded back immediately ¨C the anger and betrayal I¡¯d felt. How I hated him. Hated her. Hated both of them.


    ¡°Rob? You still there?¡±


    When he spoke, my eyes shot open. I hadn¡¯t realized my fingers were clenched into a fist, gripping the cell phone so tightly that my knuckles became white.


    ¡°What the fuck do you want?¡± I spat harshly, alerting the others in the room.


    They looked at me concerned, but I waived them off, quietly instructing them to keep put.


    A deep breath entered the receiver, followed by a hefty sigh. ¡°I know you¡¯re losing your marbles, Rob,¡± he said calmly. ¡°And I know you still hold a grudge against me, but you need to listen to what I have to say, old friend.¡±


    ¡°Friend?¡± I scoffed. ¡°We¡¯re not friends, Tom. Do not use that word on me. Get to the point? How¡­¡± My voice broke, but I continued. ¡°How did you even get this number?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you what¡­¡± A raspy chuckle followed the statement. ¡°I have me ways.¡±


    Another pause. Another sigh. I said nothing. He continued. ¡°Rob, I want to start by saying that I saw the news about your arrest. I¡¯m sorry you had to go through that, even though it could have been avoided.¡±


    My arrest could have been avoided. What did that mean?


    ¡°What the fuck are you on about, Tom?¡± My eyes narrowed as I stood up from my seat. Mr. Patrick and Mark shot me worried looks.


    ¡°Dadgummit!¡± He cursed in his southern ent, and I imagined him rubbing his head with one of hisrge, broad palms. ¡°About the arrest and the crime, they said you did. It¡¯ll alle out in the wash ¡¯cause I got insider information.¡±


    A shiver went down my spine-an unpleasant feeling settled in the pit of my stomach.


    ¡°Shocking, right?¡± He let out a dryugh. ¡°And no, I¡¯m not an aplice, but I woulda been cause that hussy contacted me.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± I asked with a sharpness in my tone that astonished even me. At the same time, I put the phone on speaker, slowly dropped it on the desk, and turned up the volume so everyone in the office could hear every word.


    More shuffling. Some whispering. Then he dropped the bombshell!


    ¡°It was a surprise to me when she called. Because ever since that night, she¡­¡± He hesitated and cleared his throat. ¡°We went our jolly ways. You might not believe me, but it¡¯s true. So, she called. Said she wanted my help with something leery, I tell you. I asked for the details, and she told me everything. When she got done talking, I told her a hasty no. What she was asking me to do¡­ nah. I couldn¡¯t do that to you. Then she tore up. Got madder than a wet hen, gave me the jitters, and hung up the phone. To me, that was good riddance because she spelled trouble. Amanda was and is trouble.¡±


    Gasps filled the room. Even the cops looked taken aback. Mr. Patrick tried approaching me, but I raised a hand, stopping him mid-stride.


    My blood was boiling, and every nerve ending in my body was alive with wrath and frustration from what I¡¯d just heard.


    While he talked, I held onto a sliver of doubt that this was all a twisted joke. That this was a dumb attempt to try and get back at me. Maybe even secretly mocking me. Because why was he calling after so many years? It didn¡¯t make any sense! Why now?


    But as he started talking about a woman who was my ex-wife, I lost any remaining doubt. He wasn¡¯t joking. This happened. He spoke the truth and I believed him.


    ¡°Anyhoo, Rob¡­ I ain¡¯t gotta beat around the bush when I say she¡¯s your culprit. Amanda done did everything. I won¡¯t go into details of all she said to me, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Go into it,¡± I demanded harshly. ¡°Tell. Me. Everything!¡±


    ¡°All of it?¡±


    ¡°Everything!¡± I snapped. ¡°The entire story. Every bit of detail that you can recall.¡±


    His hesitation was brief. Too brief.


    ¡°Okay, okay¡­ You want the whole sordid tale? I¡¯m gonna tell you, but you won¡¯t like it.¡±


    I watched the officers bring out their tape recorders, hoping to catch whatever he said. Mr. Patrick did the same thing, nodding along with the others. This would be substantial evidence.


    My hands shook, and my legs trembled as I sat back in my chair, waiting for him to start.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Taking in a deep breath, Tom began talking. He recounted everything, starting with the day she called months ago. So, she¡¯d been nning this frame-up for a while? Bile rose in my throat.


    He continued, narrating how Amanda had begged for his assistance. She¡¯d tried to use him, giving him arge sum of money and sexual favors in exchange for doing her dirty work. He¡¯d refused because his conscience wouldn¡¯t let him do such a thing, and she¡¯d resorted to ckmail, sending death threats and emails if he so much as ratted her out.


    As I listened to his monologue, my thoughts drifted away, and all I could think about was the pent-up feelings surging inside me. One emotion in particr stood out. Hurt. So much hurt.


    Every single part of me felt as if someone had thrust a de deep into my heart and left it to bleed freely. Every part of me wanted to tear Amanda apart for making me feel this way. For breaking our family apart-for good this time. For destroying me.


    And all because of what? Some petty jealousy she felt toward Renee. My God!


    When Tom mentioned Dn, talking about his involvement with his mother, something inside me snapped.


    I mmed my fist on the desk, startling everyone. Mr. Patrick winced. Mark¡¯s brows rose, his mouth gaping wide open in surprise. The others nced at me in confusion.


    ¡°Enough!¡± My voice echoed throughout the office. My breathing became heavier. I turned off the speaker, shakily lifting the cell phone to my ears. ¡°Just stop. I¡¯ve gotten all I need.¡±


    There was silence for a moment before Tom cleared his throat. ¡°Rob-¡±


    ¡°I said, STOP!¡± I yelled. ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear anything else. Just¡­stop.¡±


    But Tom didn¡¯t stop. He kept talking.


    ¡°I was a fool, Rob, and I know nothing can undo what I did in the past. But I never intended to ruin things between Amanda and you.¡± A shaky breath slipped from the speaker. ¡°You never knew this, but I¡¯ll tell you now. Amanda seduced me that night. She said you both were going through the patches, and the marriage was not working out. She said she wasn¡¯t cheating too, because you both dropped your rings.¡±


    Oh, God.


    ¡°I was drunk as Cooter Brown that night and not myself, I assure you. I don¡¯t expect you to believe me, but nothing¡¯s been the same since that night. I loved you, Rob. You were like a brother to me. And I¡¯m sorry for what I did.¡±


    Hisst sentence was quiet, like a fleeting whisper.


    I took a deep breath. Tears gathered in my eyes, but I fought them off by blinking.


    ¡°You¡¯re a good man, Rob. You always were.¡± He chuckled lowly. ¡°Always were and always will be.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Tom,¡± I said quietly, finally saying something. ¡°And thank you for telling me this. About the night with Amanda, I¡­I don¡¯t know what to say to you. Whether you werepletely aware or not, Tom, you betrayed my trust. And I¡¯m not sure how to forgive that. It¡­¡±


    Tomughed again. A deep, hearty one this time. ¡°Nah. That ain¡¯t necessary. I never said all that because I wanted some good ol¡¯ forgiveness, Rob. I just wanted to apologize. I wanted you to know the truth. That¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    ¡°You have every right to be furious at me. You did adore me. Always treated me well. We had something amazing, Rob. I will always treasure that friendship and continue to cheer you on from here. I¡¯ve seen your exploits and sesses. Workingte nights back then and today, you have everything you want. I¡¯m proud of you, old friend.¡±


    A tear finally slipped down my cheek. And when he talked about my aplishments, I couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    He knew. Only Tom knew of my travails and how I worked hard to give my family the best. Before I met Cade, there was Tom-the burlyborer, handyman, and my childhood best friend.


    I sniffed and wiped my nose with the back of my palm. ¡°Thank you, Tom. And for what it¡¯s worth, I¡¯m proud of you, too.¡±


    ¡°You tter me, old friend.¡± There was a brief pause. ¡°Well, don¡¯t let me take up ya entire day. If you need my assistance with anything else, maybe regarding the case, just holler, will you?¡±


    ¡°I will, Tom.¡±


    ¡°Goodbye then.¡±


    Silence.


    ¡°Goodbye, Tom.¡±


    Click. The line went dead.

 Luring The Enemy

    RENEE


    ¡°Mister Dn is here to see you, ma¡¯am.¡±


    When Harry announced Dn¡¯s arrival, I wasn¡¯t sure who was more surprised-myself or Nicole, who had arrived only a moment before.


    We almost didn¡¯t believe him; I tried to call his bluff for a second. But then, he repeated it, emphasizing that the ¡°Dn¡± in question was Dn rke-his boss¡¯s son, my ex-boyfriend, the man who had ruined my life many times over.


    And now he was here. To see me.


    He stood awkwardly in the living room, his hands buried in the pockets of an oversized grey hoodie. His dark hair was chopped short and brushed out but still unkempt.


    He wore his customary faded jeans, tattered around the knees, and sneakers withoutces. Rough stubble lined his jaw, and shadows were under his eyes.


    He looked exhausted, but not fromck of sleep. No. Something clearly pulled on his conscience.


    I could see the tiredness in his bodynguage, in the way his shoulders slumped forward slightly as if he were carrying a great weight.


    But there was something else I noticed-some vulnerability. He held himself like he could run at any moment, his eyes darting around quickly, which baffled me.


    Nicole¡¯s soft hand pressed gently on my shoulder, squeezing it. ¡°You understand you don¡¯t have to do this, right?¡±


    My lips pressed together firmly.


    ¡°I can send the motherfucker out. Just say the word. Harry is right here, and-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Nicole,¡± I said before she could finish, and a hiss escaped her lips.


    Dragging her gaze from me to Dn, she muttered angrily. ¡°Jesus Christ¡­ if you say or try anything stupid, I¡¯ll skin you alive, bastard,¡±


    His eyes widened just enough to show he¡¯d heard her. With the tiniest wince, his stance changed, and he straightened up slightly.


    Nicole squeezed me on the shoulder before stepping aside. She didn¡¯t leave the room; instead, she chose to sit on the couch opposite mine. Her zing gaze never left Dn, who still looked ufortable, moving from one foot to another. An action that oddly satisfied me.


    Considering the emotional havoc he¡¯d caused me, a little difort should be the least of his problems.


    His uneasiness made me feel strong. It made me feel like I could do anything. Like I¡¯d been granted the power to destroy this man with my words, actions, and anything else.


    I was no longer the girl he¡¯d broken, the girl he humiliated and made fun of in public. No, that girl was gone. In her ce was a strong, confident woman who would never let anyone tamper with her feelings again. The thought that he knew this¡­ brought a smile to my face.


    However, the grin faded when he spoke, breaking the silence.


    ¡°Well, this is¡­ awkward.¡±


    I raised an eyebrow. ¡°No shit. You came here uninvited. What were you expecting?¡± My voice was t, emotionless. ¡°That I¡¯d be all smiles and huggy hugs?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± He paused and cleared his throat. ¡°Not¡­ really¡­¡±


    ¡°How did you know where to find me?¡±


    ¡°You weren¡¯t that hard to find, Renee.¡±


    I gasped, and he sighed.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t what you think. I went to your ce, but you weren¡¯t there, so I assumed you were with my dad. He¡¯s been all over the news, including at this hotel. It wasn¡¯t hard to connect the dots. That¡¯s all. I swear.¡±


    I huffed nomittally. ¡°Yeah, right. So, why are you here? And you better hurry before your father returns. You know he won¡¯t like seeing you here.¡±


    Dn¡¯s face flickered with amusement. For a half-second, I wondered what I¡¯d said that was amusing.


    I expected something different from him-a slight grimace, a violent disy of rage, anything that would give me a reason to kick him out. Surprisingly, he flung his head back andughed.


    Nicole seemed as confused as I was.


    ¡°Sorry,¡± he continued, chuckling. You know, I would¡¯ve been outraged by that, but guess what? I¡¯m not.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not upset, because you¡¯re right.¡±


    I blinked twice.


    ¡°Look¡­¡± He shook his head. ¡°I didn¡¯te here to discuss my father, Renee. I¡­¡± He breathed heavily, clearly struggling with his words. ¡°I wanted to apologize.¡±


    There was a pause while I processed his words. Finally, I managed. ¡°Apologize? For what?¡±


    ¡°For everything.¡± He swallowed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Renee.¡±


    Nicole and I snorted. What the hell was this?


    ¡°Is this some sort of joke, Dn?¡± I scoffed.


    ¡°Renee¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare say my name again!¡± I raised a dismissive hand at him. ¡°Are you trying to get back with me? Or do you think you can swoop in and y Romeo because your father is in some situation?¡±


    He nced away.


    ¡°Or did you think I¡¯m¡­¡±


    ¡°For Godsake, this has nothing to do with wanting you back,¡± he snapped angrily. I visibly flinched, taken aback by his outburst.


    ¡°I mean¡­damn it, Renee,¡± He muttered a string of curses. ¡°I¡¯m not here to apologize because I want us to be together. No. I¡­¡± He ran his fingers through his hair. ¡°Thest apology didn¡¯t go so well, and I admit I was thinking with my pants. I wanted you before, but this¡­ today is different.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± I asked sharply. ¡°Why is it different?¡±


    ¡°Because I genuinely want a clean te.¡±


    I stilled.


    He continued, ¡°I apologize. For cheating on you, humiliating you in public when I discovered your affair with my father, and, most importantly, for going along with my mother¡¯s ploy to ruin you. I¡­¡±


    ¡°What ploy? What are you talking about?¡± My heart skipped a beat, but Dn didn¡¯t answer immediately.


    To my astonishment, he dropped to his knees and began crawling toward me.


    My mouth fell open. Nicole gasped, and Harry, standing in a corner of the room with his arms crossed, approached. He red furiously at Dn as he did, his eyes narrowing. I had to raise my hand to stop him.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± The question came out hushed. I looked at him like he was crazy.


    He didn¡¯t stop crawling, though. He only came to a halt a few inches from me.


    ¡°Fuck it, Renee. I¡­It was my idea to ruin you because I was full of resentment, hatred, and anger. I was so stupid.¡±


    He reached forward and grabbed one of my hands, making my skin crawl, but not in terror. His fingers were cold as ice. My breath hitched, and I drew back involuntarily, staring at him wide-eyed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch me! Don¡¯t you dare!¡±


    ¡°God, I must disgust you.¡± His eyes welled up as if he was going to cry. ¡°Please forgive me, Renee.¡± He sniffled. ¡°I know I don¡¯t deserve your forgiveness, but if you could find it somewhere in your heart to give me a chance to make it up to you, trust me, I will do everything in my power to deserve it.¡±


    Nicole muttered under her breath, ¡°Oh my God, this isn¡¯t happening.¡± Her expression matched mine, disbelief written all over her face. ¡°Are you going to believe this lying piece of shit? This maniptor?¡±


    I opened my mouth to say something. It may have been a rejection or an eptance of Dn¡¯s bizarre apologies, but I¡¯d never know because the ding of the suite¡¯s door distracted us.


    We all turned to see Robert walk in with two police officers and his bodyguards. Dn¡¯s eyes dted with fear as he moved away from me.


    ¡°What the fuck is happening here?¡± Robert¡¯s voice shook the room. His rage would be scary if it¡¯d been focused on me, but it wasn¡¯t. The brunt of his harsh re was born by Dn, who was still hunched over on the floor. ¡°You motherfucking bastard!¡±


    ¡°Dad!. It¡¯s not what you think,¡± Dn argued, standing up. He started walking toward Robert when an order rang out, and he froze.


    ¡°Arrest him!¡±


    His eyes darted to his father in shock. My jaw dropped, and Nicole ced a palm over her lips as Robert repeated the order, pointing his fingers at his son.Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Arrest him now!¡±


    The officers surrounded Dn in seconds, grabbing his arms and forcing handcuffs on his wrists.


    ¡°Dad, please!¡± Dn¡¯s voice was frantic as the officers escorted him out of the suite. He gave me a beseeching look. ¡°Renee, tell him I just came here to apologize. Why is he arresting me? I-¡± He broke off abruptly as they dragged him out.


    ¡°Robert, what¡¯s going on?¡± I demanded, confused.


    Robert, who¡¯d been speaking with Harry, slowly turned to me. ¡°I had him arrested.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You heard me. You saw it.¡± His gaze was steely. ¡°I had Dn arrested, Renee.¡±


    ¡°Why? Because he came to see me? You¡¯re being overly harsh and¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m being too harsh?¡± He spat back and stepped away. ¡°Did you forget who this is? Have you forgotten what he did to you, to me, to us?¡±


    ¡°I know who he is, damn it! He didn¡¯t mean any harm. He only came to apologize and-¡±


    ¡°And you believe him?¡± He scoffed. ¡°You believe that conniving son of a bitch?!¡±


    ¡°Your son, Robert. He¡¯s your son!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s a liar! Just like his mother. He¡¯s a piece of shit who deserves to rot in prison for his crimes. And I swear to heaven, by the time I¡¯m done with both of them, they¡¯ll¡­¡± His voice cracked, and he took a deep breath. ¡°Look, Renee, I¡¯m angry right now. Very angry, and rightly so. Just give me some space, please.¡±


    ¡°Robert¡­¡±


    But he¡¯d already turned and was talking to Harry,pletely ignoring me. ¡°Pack everything up. We¡¯re leaving the suite today and heading to the house. Take Renee with you.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I grabbed his wrist and forced him to look at me again. ¡°What is going on?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, I just need you out of here as soon as possible.¡± He turned away and tried to pull his wrist out of my grasp, but I didn¡¯t let go.


    ¡°No,¡± I sneered. ¡°You don¡¯t get to do that thing now.¡±


    ¡°What thing, Renee?¡± His tone softened, but there was still an edge to it. ¡°You need to let me go. I¡¯m having a press conference soon. I need to release a statement.¡±


    ¡°What statement?¡±


    ¡°Oh God, Renee. Don¡¯t be dumb. You know what I mean.¡± The maddening anger in his voice finally made me snap.


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t be dumb? Are you calling me stupid?¡±


    ¡°Renee-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t fucking Renee me! You¡¯re doing that thing again where you keep important stuff from me and don¡¯t exin shit untilter,¡± I said, frustrated. ¡°You stormed in here and arrested your son without cause. You wouldn¡¯t let me say anything. You didn¡¯t listen! And now you¡¯re telling Harry to pack everything and bring me to the house. What house, Robert?¡±


    His attitude remained unchanged at first. He simply stared at my seething body with apathy in his eyes. Then, like a switch, he went from apathetic and angry to calm and collected.


    ¡°I never meant to call you dumb, Renee. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± I sighed, dropping his wrist. ¡°Just please tell me what¡¯s going on. What happened at the office? Did you make any headway in the investigation, and where is Harry taking me?¡±


    ¡°Harry is taking you to our house, Renee. The mansion I bought for you.¡±


    I wrinkled my brow in surprise.


    ¡°About the investigation¡­¡± He touched either side of my face, softly cupping my cheeks before dropping his forehead to mine.


    I let him have a moment to breathe, feeling weirdly calm despite how agitated I was.


    Then, very quietly, he said, ¡°I have substantial evidence that Dn and his mother framed me.¡±


    A shiver went down my spine, and I stiffened.


    ¡°They¡­ They what?¡±


    He nodded and exined further, ¡°An old acquaintance of mine came forward with some ims. Amanda contacted him to do a dirty job, but he declined. When he saw me on the news, he had a guilt trip and chose to confess. How he got my number is still a mystery, but after his call, every piece of the puzzle fell into ce.¡±


    I stayed quiet, a cold dread washing over me as Robert continued.


    He talked about how the ck box prints matched Amanda¡¯s and how Cade¡¯s team obtained lost CCTV footage from the club that night. Apparently, she arrived with a man named Darren. Initially, they had an argument, but it was soon resolved. Then he strolled over to the dance floor, approached me, struck up a pre-nned conversation, and tried to drug me but failed. He was kicked out of the club after Robert handed him to the local authorities, and further footage from street cameras showed him in another altercation with Amanda beside the alleyway. She attacked him, and the rest was history.


    He detailed everything painstakingly, and with each detail, I felt a knot in my chest over Darren¡¯s untimely demise.


    Well, he¡¯d try to put me in harm¡¯s way, still¡­


    ¡°So, there you have it,¡± Robert interrupted my thoughts, smiling sadly. ¡°I found my culprits.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God!¡± I eximed. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to, but all the evidence points to Amanda. It¡¯s perplexing, Renee. The lengths she went to to destroy me-to destroy us.¡±


    ¡°Is she in custody yet?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, no.¡± He groaned. ¡°We have not caught her yet. She must have realized we were onto her and ran.¡±


    ¡°How do you know that?¡±


    ¡°We were able to trace the hotel she¡¯s staying at, but when we arrived, her room was empty.¡±


    ¡°What will you do now?¡±


    ¡°I have a n to lure her out. Cade gave me the suggestion, and Mr. Patrick agreed to it.¡± His gaze hardened. ¡°I¡¯m going to release a press statement saying I¡¯ve been vindicated, and the culprit responsible for the frame-up has been caught.¡±


    ¡°Okay, and after that?¡±


    ¡°After that?¡± He chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m going to throw a party.¡±


    ¡°A party?¡± I asked, confused. ¡°How will that get Amanda arrested?¡±


    He smirked, tugging a strand of my hair. ¡°This isn¡¯t a party, party. It¡¯s bait.¡±


    ¡°Bait?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. To lure Amanda out.¡±


    ¡°And you think she¡¯lle?¡±


    ¡°She will. If there¡¯s one thing I know about my ex-wife, it¡¯s that she¡¯s a psychopath. A lunatic. She¡¯s irrational and can get desperate when she wants to get rid of something or someone. When she realizes that her plot to frame me has failed, she¡¯ll try something else.¡±


    ¡°Which will be hering to the party in disguise to confront you?¡±


    ¡°Exactly! Although she won¡¯t confront me, she¡¯ll try to hurt me. Revenge is her driving force right now; she¡¯ll stop at nothing to eliminate me. Since she can¡¯t have me in her life, then you can¡¯t. Nobody can. She¡¯s that crazy.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re putting yourself in danger because of Amanda.¡± I gaped. ¡°That¡¯s insane, Robert. You can¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t I, though?¡±


    ¡°You cannot! Amanda is crazy but not stupid,¡± I insisted. ¡°What if she sees through all this? What if things go south and-¡±


    ¡°Calm down, Renee,¡± He cut me off. ¡°Nothing will go south. The mansion will be heavily secured, and once she¡¯s spotted, she¡¯ll be arrested. She won¡¯t get to me.¡±


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°No buts, Renee.¡± He drew me close to him again. ¡°Everything will be okay, you¡¯ll see. Everything will work out perfectly. Just trust me.¡±


    I wanted to believe him; honestly, I did. But a part of me still felt apprehensive, thinking that putting himself in harm¡¯s way wasn¡¯t the right move.


    ¡°Renee, say something.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± I whispered, despite my doubts. ¡°I trust you. I have faith in you.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡±


    ¡°So, when is this party?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow evening. We shouldn¡¯t waste any more time.¡± He smiled fondly. ¡°You know, I was nning a housewarming party so we could finally move in. Guess I¡¯ll use this event to kill two birds with one stone.¡±


    ¡°Hm, that¡¯s clever of you.¡± I chuckled, and he grinned before kissing me passionately. ¡°I have to leave now, baby,¡± He mumbled against my lips, pulling away reluctantly.


    ¡°Alright. Be careful.¡±


    ¡°Always.¡± He winked at me. ¡°A stylist ising to the mansion tomorrow morning. I booked an appointment. Get yourself and Nicole a nice dress for the party.¡±


    When Nicole was mentioned, I suddenly remembered that we had an audience. I peeked behind me to see her and Harry pretending not to look at us.


    Robert smiled in amusement. ¡°Nicole, will you take care of Renee for me? Please?¡±


    ¡°Sure thing.¡± She hummed. ¡°She¡¯s in good hands.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. I appreciate it.¡± He turned to Harry and gave some orders before leaving the suite.


    I watched him leave, and the uneasy feeling from earlier returned tenfold. Worry gnawed at my insides, fear twisting my guts at the same time. Something felt odd, something terrible, and I just couldn¡¯t shake the nagging feeling that something bad was going to happen.

 A Woman Scorned

    Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. ~ William Congreve.


    AMANDA


    Arms crossed, I listened to Robert¡¯s press announcement with a smirk ying on my lips.


    My gaze never wavered from his image on the screen.


    His face was expressionless as he spoke about the investigation and how his team had apprehended the person responsible for framing him. Then he talked about throwing a party to celebrate his victory.


    The speech was monotonous and by far the most tant but idiotic attempt to set a trap I¡¯d ever seen. For someone so clever, it was always so easy to one-up him.


    I knew he was after me earlier today when I learned he¡¯d obtained the club footage. Then, a hotel employee informed me of a search warrant issued in my name. At the same time, I¡¯d thought briefly of my son, Dn.


    Was he worthy of being called my son if he ratted me out to his father? Because that was the only exnation for what was happening.


    The bastard.


    Despite my threats, he decided to rebel against me. I¡¯d deal with himter, though. Right now, all I needed to do was activate the fail-safe phase of my n and ensure everything went smoothly.


    Robert ended his speech, stepping off the stage, and the camera returned to the reporters. They mobbed him, asking questions. His responses were hazy, not that I cared to listen.


    My gaze shifted away, and I grabbed the remote control on the table, turning the television off. Dragging my sight across the shabby t, I took in my surroundings for the first time since arriving.


    The building was dirty and barely lit, with fluorescent lighting and old broken windows. Soot and yellow stains coated the whole surface of the walls, floors, and ceilings. An old mattress was pushed into a corner near the door, and a mound of empty beer cans sat beside it.


    It was a total pigsty. A filthy, stinky environment rife with dust and mold. It wasn¡¯t the ideal ce for a hideout, but it was my only option for now.


    I looked around again, sighing at the sorry state of my temporary abode, when a knock on the door startled me.


    Before I could say or do anything, Kent had pushed past me to the door.


    He took a revolver from the little holster strapped to his belt. ¡°I¡¯ll get it.¡± Looking back at me, he mouthed, ¡°Stay put.¡±


    Nodding, I watched as he peered through the spy hole before unlocking and swinging the door open. I saw a man with his baseball cap pulled down, and the door smashed shut.


    A rustling sound and fast, hushed conversation ensued. Then I heard footsteps retreating, and a momentter, the door opened again, allowing Kent to reenter the room. He was carrying arge brown paper bag.


    ¡°Your package is here.¡± He strolled up and handed me the bag without a nce.


    With a cheeky look, I grabbed it and rummaged through the contents.


    ¡°Perfect!¡± I eximed as I checked the items in the bag-a passport, an ID card, foreign notes, and a new prepaid phone. ¡°All perfect!¡±


    There was also a little, ck-tied nylon pouch inside the bag. My grin widened. This was perfect.


    I looked over at Kent, but his eyes appeared distant. They narrowed slightly as they turned to me.


    ¡°What?¡± I asked.


    A mute shrug followed my inquiry. His lips stiffened as he spoke, ¡°You¡¯re so calm about all this.¡±


    ¡°About what?¡±


    ¡°The news.¡±


    ¡°That pathetic press release?! Don¡¯t tell me you fell for it.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t. It¡¯s a trick. A trap. That¡¯s why you need to be more cautious.¡±


    ¡°And I am. I¡¯m staying here, aren¡¯t I?¡±


    ¡°Well, you won¡¯t be here forever. That¡¯s what the passport¡¯s for.¡± He grunted and walked away from me. ¡°You have a tail on your back, ma¡¯am, ready to jump you at any moment. When you walk out the front door¡­¡± He shook his head, perhaps in disbelief. ¡°The cops will be on your ass. Our ass. Your entire life will change, and you don¡¯t give two shits about that, do you?¡±


    I scoffed and gave an unpleasantugh. ¡°Oh, Kent, I¡¯m not calm. But don¡¯t worry, this n¡­my n¡­ will work.


    ¡°What if it doesn¡¯t?¡±


    I ignored him and pried open the nylon pouch. When I saw what was inside, I smiled broadly. ¡°I always get my way. You know this. Meanwhile¡­¡±


    Kent looked perplexed as I tossed the pouch to him and said. ¡°That¡¯s for you.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± He caught it quickly, frowning. ¡°What am I supposed to do with this?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re going to use that to carry out the n.¡±


    ¡°I thought the n was getting you out of the country safely?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s part of it. But don¡¯t tell me you think I¡¯ll leave without making that bastard pay somehow.¡± A nasty grin formed on my lips. ¡°Never.¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am. I still don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re saying.¡±


    ¡°When I hired you, what did I tell you I wanted?¡±


    ¡°Revenge.¡±


    ¡°Good. The arrangement was to take out my ex-husband or the bitch by his side, correct?¡±


    Kent offered a stiff nod.


    ¡°But as you can see, we¡¯ve done neither.¡±


    He swallowed deeply but said nothing.


    ¡°When I arranged for these travel documents, I had another sinister n for the bitch. I wanted to hit her and Robert where they least expected it, then disappear. No trail would lead to me or you. The content of that pouch was my small insurance against that.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s in it?¡± He held up the pouch, looking at it like the contents would affect him. ¡°Ma¡¯am, this¡­ this was not what we¡­¡±


    I disregarded his ranting and continued. ¡°Don¡¯t be silly. Be quiet and listen to me.¡±


    Kent gulped hard again. ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Did you see that party Robert announced? It¡¯s happening tomorrow night.¡±


    He raised an eyebrow at me. ¡°Are you thinking of going?¡± He looked concerned for me. ¡°It¡¯s clearly a trap. We know that.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s where youe in.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡±


    ¡°Yes, you. You¡¯ll be attending the party in my stead. I know he expects me to show up and cause amotion since my initial n failed, and then he¡¯ll have me arrested. But you and I know I¡¯m much smarter than that. I-¡±


    ¡°This doesn¡¯t exin why I¡¯m attending the party.¡±


    I hissed at the abrupt interruption but reined my anger in. ¡°You¡¯ll attend the party as my proxy. What you have in that pouch¡­¡± I moved closer to his ear and whispered, ¡°¡­is a very special item. One that I believe will take that bitch out andpletely ruin Robert.¡±


    Kent tensed instantaneously, and as I drew back, I saw the look of sheer dread on his face.


    ¡°What you¡¯re to do is very simple.¡± I leaned forward and ced my hands on his shoulders. ¡°Go to the party. Lace the bitch¡¯s drink, then watch her drink it. Make sure she downs every drop. And as she copses and suffocates to death, with everyone gathering around to make sure she¡¯s okay, you make your way out. Simple.¡±


    He blinked again as if to digest what I¡¯d said. He then startled me by saying.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± He threw the pouch on the floor and took a step back. ¡°There¡¯s no way in hell I¡¯m gonna help you do that.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± He affirmed. ¡°I¡¯m done working for you. Yes, we made a bargain to get revenge on your ex, but the arrangement was only valid for so long. We had a specific timeframe. And that time frame has passed.¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare,¡± I yelled, but he disregarded me and continued.


    ¡°You¡¯ve overworked me, Mrs. rke, and never once followed my advice. I warned you about killing that guy. I warned you against sending that box. Every time I advised you, you didn¡¯t listen. Now look where we are. You¡¯ve been served with a search warrant for chrissakes. It would be best to consider leaving the country as quickly as possible, whatever the difficulties, and never returning. You should let this revenge n go and move on. But you want to murder an innocent woman who did nothing wrong but fall for your ex-husband. Your divorced ex-husband. So, no, ma¡¯am. I¡¯m not going to help you. We. Are. Finished.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Iughed dryly. ¡°Interesting. Very interesting. Don¡¯t be stupid.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not being stupid! I am telling you how the¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re such a fool!¡± I scoffed. ¡°You have forgotten why you¡¯re working for me, Kent. I can so easily ruin your life, you know right?¡±


    His face turned pallid.


    ¡°Yes. You know how easily I can destroy you. So, if I were you, I¡¯d do everything in my power to avoid screwing this up.¡± I looked him directly in the eye. ¡°Now, pick that pouch up off the floor.¡±


    He did it slowly, his entire body shivering. For someone who took pride in his criminal skills, I knew how to bring him down.


    Well, I always knew how to make everyone fold by identifying their weakness. Robert¡¯s weak point was Renee, the bitch. For Kent, it was his son. A cute boy who was currently staying with a friend of mine while his dad went on a short trip.


    One call from me, and the little kid was a fucking corpse. No call from me, he would suffer the same fate anyway.


    ¡°So, am I clear now?¡±


    ¡°Y¡­yes,¡± He stammered and nced away before continuing. ¡°Crystal.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± I picked up my bag and checked the time on my wristwatch. ¡°I can¡¯t possibly stay in this dump tonight.¡±


    ¡°But the police-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gettingte, and I¡¯m still wearing my disguise. I¡¯m confident I¡¯ll be able to find a nice, good motel without anyone noticing.¡±Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    I walked away from him to the cracked mirror beside the door. I studied my reflection momentarily, and a satisfied smile crossed my lips.


    ¡°I¡¯ll wire you some moneyter for thest phase of our deal and the extended time frame. I apologize for any inconvenience.¡± Thest statement was delivered in a sarcastic tone. ¡°Try to use the money for good. Maybe clean this stinking building or get someone to do it.¡± I rolled my shoulders back, then opened the door. ¡°With how much I¡¯ve given you so far, it¡¯s surprising that you live in such a terrible apartment.¡±


    And with that, I walked out of the building, leaving behind an absolutely terrified man who wouldn¡¯t dare double cross me.

 The Housewarming Party

    ROBERT


    ¡°You look so beautiful.¡±


    The words tumbled out of my mouth unbidden when I walked into Renee¡¯s dressing room and took in her appearance for tonight¡¯s party.


    I¡¯d just finished the security briefing for tonight¡¯s event with Cade¡¯s team and mine. I had a few minutes to kill before the party began, and what better way to spend them than with my woman?


    ¡°So, so beautiful,¡± I mumbled again, my eyes taking in the gorgeous sight.


    She stood in front of the full-length mirror, wearing a low-cut ck gown that hugged her curves and made her look like a goddess.


    A beautiful sterling silver ne glistened around her neck, and the matching earrings added to the grandeur of her attire. Her hair was fashioned in a sleek updo and pinned up with a delicate ivory hairb thatplemented her jewelry. At the same time, the makeup artist behind her worked to polish her already gorgeous face.


    ¡°Thank you for thepliment, Robert.¡± She smiled sheepishly. ¡°I¡¯m d you approve.¡±


    I didn¡¯t utter another word. I just stood by the doorway, watching her intently, and a blush rose on her cheeks as our gazes met in the mirror¡¯s reflection.


    She blinked rapidly, averting her gaze, and the action made me grin. I stepped forward.


    ¡°Will you please give us the room?¡± I asked the makeup artist without letting my gaze stray from Renee. Her eyebrows furrowed in question.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± She mouthed, adding in a louder tone. ¡°She¡¯s not finished yet. I¡¯m not finished¡­¡±


    ¡°But you are.¡± I cut in with a smirk and nced at the makeup artist, who nodded and hurriedly left. ¡°Now, where was I¡­¡± I trailed off as the door clicked shut, then crossed the room to stand squarely behind her.


    One hand cradled her waist, and the other crept around the back of her neck, fingertips barely stroking her skin in what I hoped was a delicate caress.


    I leaned down to give her the sweetest kiss on an exposed shoulder.


    She shivered, sucking in an unsteady breath.


    ¡°God, you smell amazing.¡± I let loose a soft, seductive sigh. ¡°And you are stunning. Perfect. Like a piece of God¡¯s purest and best work in creation. Damn!¡±


    ¡°Rob¡­¡± Her voice was breathless. ¡°Stop¡­¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t¡­¡± I interrupted with a hiss and kissed her shoulder again. ¡°I can¡¯t wait for everything to be over. I miss you. So damn much.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m here.¡±


    ¡°Silly girl,¡± I scoffed. ¡°Of course you are. What I mean is¡­¡± I paused, grasping her waist tightly. ¡°I miss fucking you.¡±


    ¡°Robert!¡± She gaped, her cheeks zing, but that did not stop me from continuing


    .


    ¡°I¡¯ve missed the feeling of your skin against mine. The sound of your sweet moans in my ears. Every little whimper of pleasure. Every single exhale you make as I push deep into you. And¡­¡± I ran my lips across her neck and shoulder, dropping little kisses. ¡°Fuck!¡±


    ¡°Please stop.¡± She giggled and tried to pull away. ¡°You¡¯re going to ruin my dress and makeup.¡±


    ¡°The beautician should be able to fix it in a jiffy.¡±


    ¡°You must be joking.¡± A frown marred her beautiful features. ¡°The party starts in a few minutes, and you are not dressed. Besides, this event is not your typical housewarming celebration. It¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°I know what it is. I know.¡± I released her from my hold and took a step back. I raked my fingers through my hair in frustration. ¡°I just wanted to forget about the chaos and enjoy myself for a moment. I just wanted to be with you.¡±


    Slowly, Renee turned to face me.


    Her expression softened, and she brought her palm to my cheek, gently stroking it. ¡°I understand. But this is only for today. After tonight, things will return to normal, right?¡±


    My lips curved upward. ¡°Right.¡±Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Good.¡± She smiled, although the look in her eyes quickly betrayed her true feelings.


    She was scared. Terrified, even if her bodynguage was anything to go by. And I knew why.


    ¡°Nothing bad will happen tonight, Renee,¡± I spoke firmly. ¡°The party is going to go well. It will be amazing.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just¡­¡± She bit her lip. ¡°I can¡¯t help feeling nervous. I¡¯ve been hoping everything will be fine, but¡­¡±


    ¡°But what?¡±


    ¡°I have a strong feeling in my gut that it will not be. Your hasty n with Cade¡­ the party¡­ it could all go¡­¡±


    ¡°Nothing will go wrong.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Robert.¡±


    ¡°Sincerely, Renee. I¡¯ll say it a hundred times if I have to. You have nothing to be concerned about.¡± I took a deep breath. ¡°The security brief for tonight has beenpleted, and it is thorough. Cade¡¯s men are on the lookout for Amanda. My guards will ensure the safety of the guests and house staff. As for you, Harry will not leave your side.¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s also an arrest warrant out on the she-devil, so¡­¡±


    ¡°She-devil?¡± Renee giggled, obviously amused by my choice of words. ¡°Now that¡¯s a funny word.¡±


    ¡°It fits her personality perfectly.¡± I shrugged. ¡°Anyway, if she sees through this ruse and decides not to attend the party but does something else like leave the city or country¡­ she¡¯ll be apprehended. I have eyes everywhere.¡±


    ¡°Okay. That¡¯s reassuring.¡± She sighed and turned back, facing the mirror. ¡°My mom called.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s sorry she couldn¡¯t attend the party, but she sends her regards.¡± Another sigh escaped her lips. ¡°She prayed for you, Robert. For me, too. For everyone involved in tonight¡¯s event.¡±


    ¡°That was kind of her,¡± I said quietly.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± She nodded, a little smile spreading across her face. ¡°Did you know that ever since I told her about the murder case, she¡¯s been vouching for your innocence? She didn¡¯t believe what they said you did.¡±


    ¡°Did she?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Renee giggled. ¡°And for the record, my mama¡¯s instincts are always correct. Always.¡±


    ¡°Hm,¡± I smirked and pulled her close to me again. ¡°When Mama calls next, you tell her I love her and appreciate her faith in me.¡±


    ¡°Or when she visits, you tell her yourself.¡± Renee mused, and I nodded in agreement.


    Silence fell between us after that. Then, slowly, Renee took my hands and ced them on her stomach. She closed her eyes and breathed deeply, rxing under my touch.


    When she opened her eyes, she spoke. Although the words were barely audible, I could hear them.


    ¡°I n on having a great time, no matter what happens. What about you?¡±


    A lopsided grin appeared on my face. ¡°Of course, I intend to enjoy it. Renee, it¡¯s our housewarming party. It¡¯s the first step toward making us a family.¡±


    Her whole face lit up. ¡°A family.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Isn¡¯t that right?¡±


    ¡°Hm. It is.¡± She hummed. ¡°It has always been right. Right from that night in Aspen¡­¡± Her brown eyes twinkled with delight. ¡°Or was it when you bought this house? You made yourmitment¡­ this dream¡­ you made it clear to me. And, while I may not have said it out loud, I wanted this. I¡¯ve beenmitted, too.¡±


    Her words sent a warm feeling through my chest. They rang true, and waves of affection coursed through me. My smile broadened, and my heart swelled with pride and love for her.


    She continued. ¡°So, I¡¯m going to have fun. Because tonight, I¡¯ve found my home. My family. My ce by your side.¡± She met my gaze in the mirror¡¯s reflection. ¡°This is the beginning of our future, Robert. And I can¡¯t wait!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait, either.¡± I kissed her hair tenderly. ¡°God, I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you more.¡± She inhaled softly. ¡°How many minutes before the party starts?¡±


    I looked at my watch, squinting slightly as the numbers danced around me.


    ¡°Thirty, forty minutes. Why?¡±


    ¡°Well, you need to get ready and¡­¡±


    ¡°And I want to spend ten more minutes with you.¡±


    ¡°Robert!¡± She admonished me, but I just tightened my hold around her.


    ¡°I¡¯m a man. I don¡¯t need to do much. I¡¯ll be done dressing in twenty.¡±


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°But just ten minutes. With you,¡± I cut in and began drawing circles on her tummy. ¡°Can you give me that?¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡± She chuckled and melted further into me. ¡°Ten minutes.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, my girl¡­¡±


    ~~


    ¡°¡­now, I give you our host, Mr. rke.¡± The MC made a loud announcement over the speaker system, eliciting a big cheer and apuse.


    ¡°Are youing with me?¡± I whispered in Renee¡¯s ear, gently kissing her cheek. She shook her head and muttered.


    ¡°No. Go on ahead.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± I kissed her one final time before turning away and walking confidently to the center of the room.


    Before I began my address, I looked across the vast room, taking in the lively atmosphere.


    The party was in full swing when Renee and I arrived in thevishly adorned mansion¡¯s ballroom moments ago. Music red, food and drink flowed, andughter echoed. The guests mingled happily. Many were my business associates, and I introduced Renee to them one by one.


    Even though this was an impromptu event, my invitees consistently showed up. I was immensely grateful.


    This was good publicity. It wasn¡¯t only appropriate for drawing Amanda out, but it was also beneficial to mypany¡¯s reputation, which had suffered significantly since the murder scandal began. It¡¯d make for a memorable experience to remember in the future.


    Clearing my throat, I looked around and began to speak. ¡°Good evening, everyone. Thank you for honoring my invitation. It means so much to me and my lovely girlfriend.¡± An apuse erupted from both sides of the room, and I lifted my ss to Renee, who blushed slightly.


    I continued, briefly describing the love tale confined within the building¡¯s walls and why the house was my first purchase in Ondo. This narrative made Renee blush even more. Then, I got to discuss what had happened in the previous weeks. The murder case. The tedious investigation process. And most importantly, I talked about the culprit in custody.


    Approving hoots broke out, and I grinned. The audience grew silent once more as I continued.


    ¡°Lest I forget, I¡¯d like to thank Cade Stone, who personally¡­¡± I trailed off, scouring the crowd for my best friend, but he was nowhere to be seen.


    At first, I suspected Amanda had arrived, and he was monitoring that. But then I remembered that I would have been notified if she had arrived.


    Shaking my head, I chuckled and made a crappy joke about Cade¡¯s disappearance. I spoke some more before concluding with a vote of thanks. ¡°Thank you all foring again. I hope that the rke name will only grow from here on out. No more scandals. No more allegations. I pray that we never experience another catastrophe like this again.¡±


    ¡°Amen to that!¡± someone yelled, and there was a final round of apuse.


    ¡°Cheers to new beginnings.¡± I intoned loudly and raised my ss, as did everyone else.


    ¡°Cheers!¡±


    Clinks and apuse filled the air. I walked away from the ballroom center, quickly finished my drink, and looked around for Cade.


    Where was-?


    ¡°Mr. rke?¡± A guard called, and I swiftly turned to face him.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Cade?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I have no idea, sir.¡±


    ¡°Any news yet on the Amanda situation?¡±


    ¡°No. Not really. I wanted to let you know that-¡±


    ¡°Robert.¡± A voice interrupted the guard, and I looked behind to see a disheveled-looking Cade walking toward us with hurried steps.


    ¡°Cade, where the hell were you? I¡¯ve-¡±


    ¡°I just got a call,¡± He spoke abruptly, cutting my words short. ¡°They have her.¡±


    ¡°Wh¡­ what?¡± I nched. ¡°Who?!¡±


    ¡°The cops. They have Amanda. We have to leave now.¡±

 Is This The End?

    RENEE


    I¡¯d heard ¡°congrattions¡± a million times tonight, and my ears were still buzzing from it all.


    Most were from people I barely knew-Robert¡¯s acquaintances and business associates-and I was grateful that they at least seemed genuine about it.


    Their words were kind and, for the most part, calmed my ruffled nerves, but they weren¡¯t enough to dispel the lingering fear that¡¯d settled over me like a cloak all evening.


    There was a nagging voice in my head. A small whisper kept telling me that something bad would happen tonight. That danger was lurking around, waiting for an opportunity to strike.


    Sometimes, I worried that my pregnancy hormones were to me and whether it was affecting my mental health. But no, it couldn¡¯t be. The growing child inside me did not cause my feelings of paranoia and continual dread.


    Instead, it had everything to do with what this party stood for.


    I mean, I¡¯d had this feeling ever since Dn came into the suite to talk, and then Robert had this borate bait n to lure his ex-wife. Despite his reassuring words that day and early tonight, I still felt uneasy about everything.


    I despised being this way, constantly thinking and anticipating the worst. But I couldn¡¯t help it.


    ¡°¡­Cheers to new beginnings.¡± Robert¡¯s voice drew me into the present.


    He concluded his speech, and the room erupted with apuse as sses were raised and clinked, followed by a few cheers.


    Gaze riveted, I watched him, unable to tear my eyes away.


    He wore ck cks that were properly fitted and ironed, a button-up silver shirt with an open cor-to match my essories-and a matching tie. His dark hair was perfectly gelled back into ce, and he looked really handsome.


    As he smiled effortlessly at everyone, his blue eyes shing, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder why anyone, especially Amanda, would want to harm him.


    How could she hate him so much that she¡¯d try to sabotage him with heinous crimes and pin a murder charge on him? The thought made me sick, and I swallowed hard.


    When my attention returned to Robert, my breath seized in surprise. His cheery smile had vanished. Instead, he had a look of fright etched across his face.


    He wasn¡¯t alone. Several guards nked him, and then there was¡­Cade.


    Whatever he¡¯d said must¡¯ve set off rm bells in Robert, because he suddenly turned and began pushing past the guests toward the exit.


    My heart sank in my chest, and my earlier unease increased tenfold.


    What had happened? But most importantly, what did Cade tell him?


    Was it about Amanda? Was she here or¡­? I didn¡¯t finish the thought, instead moving forward, hoping to catch him. But it was toote. He¡¯d vanished from view.


    Burning panic surged through me, and with trembling legs, I turned to the guard nearest me, desperate for an exnation. However, before I could speak, someone shoved past me roughly.


    My breath caught, and I fell, losing my footing. Fortunately, I righted myself just as a hand reached out and grasped my elbow, jerking me upright.


    It was Harry.


    ¡°Careful, careful, ma¡¯am¡­¡± he spoke, but I barely heard him because my sight was fixed on the fleeing stranger¡¯s form.


    As if sensing my intense scrutiny, the stranger stopped walking and turned to meet my stare. Our eyes locked ¨C briefly before he looked away ¨C and in that short second, all the air from my lungs left like a balloon popped in the face of a mighty wind. My entire body became chilly and numb.


    I knew him¡­I knew that man. There was no mistaking the hooded appearance and dark clothing¡­ it was HIM.


    The creep who¡¯d been eyeing me from the shadows at the hall in Aspen. The same night I first met Cade.


    My stomach lurched, and I closed my eyes as my thoughts raced.


    How did he get here? It was impossible! Or am I seeing things? Maybe my hormonal brain made him up, and I was imagining it. Yes, that had to be it!


    Robert knew and could ount for every single guest in the room. Tonight¡¯s security was also extremely tight, making it impossible for a stranger to enter without detection. Besides, the only person I needed to look out for was Amanda-not a random person who seemed faintly familiar, right?


    ¡°Ma¡¯am!¡± Harry called out, shaking my arm, and jolting me out of whatever trance I was in. ¡°Are you okay? You look white in the face.¡±


    I nodded mutely, but my mouth opened of its own ord. ¡°Do you have the guest list for tonight, Harry?¡±


    His brow furrowed. The question confused him, but he replied, ¡°Of course, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± My voice was shaking. ¡°I¡¯ll need you to crosscheck the names with everyone present for me.¡±


    ¡°But, Miss-¡±


    ¡°Now, please,¡± I pleaded. ¡°It¡¯s important.¡±


    His eyes were hesitant, but after a moment, he nodded curtly. ¡°Okay, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°And while at it, inform security that no one leaves the premises till you¡¯re done.¡±


    ¡°Of course. I¡­I¡¯ll leave you with¡­¡± He looked around for a bit before pointing to a guard nearby. ¡°Please stay with Miss Michael? She¡¯s a little shaken and-¡±


    ¡°Renee!¡± Someone let out an excited squeal, interrupting my bodyguard, and I felt a warm embrace from behind. ¡°Oh, goodness! I¡¯ve been looking everywhere for you tonight.¡±


    ¡°Sally?¡± I blinked in disbelief and spun around fast. ¡°You¡¯re here. I¡­ how¡­?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m here. Your boyfriend¡­¡± Her eyes twinkled with amusement. ¡°Mr. rke sent invites.¡±


    ¡°Oh, wow¡­¡± I whispered faintly, and a smile tugged at the corner of my lips as her words dawned on me.


    ¡°Robert had sent out invites.¡± He¡¯d invited my former colleagues. I never considered it because the party was impromptu, and everything was rushed, but he still sent out invites to my close friends. I couldn¡¯t stop the pride filling my heart at his thoughtfulness.


    This was a surprise-a really pleasant one, and it was enough to take my mind off the paranoia.


    Disappearing into the crowd, Harry soon left Sally and me alone. She began talking again. ¡°Mrs. Andrews couldn¡¯t make it, but she sends her best wishes. Look over there¡­¡± She pointed to twodies sitting at a table. ¡°That¡¯s ra and Lucy from the restaurant. Do you remember them?¡±


    My eyes followed her fingers, and I nodded slowly. ¡°Yes, I do. Why didn¡¯t theye over with you?¡± When I asked, Sally only chuckled.


    ¡°They wanted to steal some canapes and sweet treats from the buffet table.¡±


    Iughed lightly. ¡°Ah. They should enjoy it. I¡¯m delighted you came, Sally. I hope you¡¯re having a good time.¡±


    ¡°A good time?¡± She squeaked. ¡°That¡¯s probably an understatement. Renee, this is unlike any housewarming party I¡¯ve ever been to. It¡¯s incredible.¡±


    ¡°Why, thank you.¡±


    She continued. ¡°The house is gorgeous, Renee. The decor is exquisite, magnificent¡­it¡¯s everything.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, right?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so happy for you. Listening to your boyfriend talk about why he bought the house was so sweet¡­¡± She sighed dreamily. ¡°¡­and very romantic¡­ He outdid himself. You won the lottery with this one, Renee.¡±


    ¡°Ugh¡­I do not want to cry.¡± My eyes zed over, and I struggled to hold back tears but failed miserably.


    ¡°Those are tears of joy, I bet,¡± Sally murmured, patting my arm. She dug out a handkerchief from her purse. ¡°Here, use this.¡±


    I gratefully epted the offered cloth and dabbed my eyes. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it.¡± She grinned and took two sses from a passing tray. ¡°Champagne?¡±


    ¡°Uh, uh.¡± I shook my head no. ¡°I can¡¯t because of my-¡±


    ¡°Oh, Renee.¡± Her expression lit up with understanding, and she returned both sses to the tray. ¡°I apologize. I-¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not champagne, ma¡¯am,¡± the waiter spoke, cutting Sally off.


    ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°This is freshly squeezed orange juice. It will not affect the¡­ your baby.¡± She finished in a whisper. My lips opened slightly in shock.


    How¡­ how did she know I was pregnant? Only Nicole and Sally were aware of my baby¡¯s existence. Not even Robert, but soon¡­


    As if sensing my confusion, she swiftly rified. ¡°You have drunk no wine tonight, ma¡¯am, and judging by how you responded when your friend offered you the ss of champagne, I simply put two and two together. Sorry if I overstepped. I¡¯m just being observant.¡±


    ¡°Hm¡­¡± I hummed, trying not to let my difort show. ¡°It¡¯s okay, you did nothing wrong.¡± I faked a chuckle and grabbed the ss. Sally took the second. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee, ma¡¯am.¡± The wait staff smiled and walked away.


    ¡°Well, that was interesting,¡± Sallymented quietly, sipping her drink. ¡°What¡¯s the matter with you, though? You look kinda pale, and¡­¡±


    And creeped out¡­ I finished the sentence in my head.


    ¡°Renee, are you okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡­I am,¡± I lied smoothly.


    Her face softened, and she prodded. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    Fuck it, I wasn¡¯t!


    ¡°I¡¯m not,¡± I blurted. ¡°I could use some free space. I need to leave here.¡± I paused and took a long breath. ¡°I¡¯m feeling ustrophobic.¡±


    ¡°Oh dear,¡± Sally said sympathetically and gently squeezed my shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s most likely the pregnancy hormones and all. Let¡¯s get you settled somewhere less rowdy.¡±


    She led me to a quieter section of the room and helped me sit on the nearby settee.


    ¡°Is there anything I can get you? Something for your nerves, perhaps?¡±


    ¡°Nicole.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Have you seen my friend, Nicole?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I saw her in the restroom not long ago. Do you want me to go get her for you?¡±


    ¡°Please, Sally.¡± I smiled tightly. ¡°If it isn¡¯t too much trouble.¡±Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    ¡°Of course.¡± She gave a nod and stood up. ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± I whispered gratefully, watching her slip into the crowd.


    Once Sally was out of sight, I rxed my shoulders. My gaze fell to the ss of orange juice still in my hand.


    Bringing it up to my mouth, I took a sip. Damn, it was incredibly tasty. I liked it.


    I took another sip, letting the sweet, citrusy liquid fill my mouth and slowly flow down my-


    ¡°Oh, God!¡± I gasped as a sharp pain pierced my lower abdomen. ¡°What the-¡±


    Another pain, this one more terrible than the first, stabbed me again in the stomach, and I doubled over.


    The ss slipped from my grasp, shattering loudly, and I followed its movement, dropping to the floor. ss shards pierced my knees, biting into my skin and drawing blood, but the pain was nothingpared to the stinging sensation in my stomach.


    The drink. What was in the drink? Was it poisoned? Oh no! My baby. NO. NO. NO.


    ¡°God, please¡­ please¡­¡±


    ¡°Renee?!¡± I heard someone call. ¡°Renee!¡± The voice called again, and different voices joined in this time. I felt hands on me. ¡°Stay with us, Renee. Stay with us!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s bleeding.¡±


    ¡°Ambnce! Someone call an ambnce!¡±


    ¡°Renee! Renee! Please look at me!¡±


    But I couldn¡¯t look up. I tried to. I struggled, but my vision was fuzzy.


    Pain ripped through me once more. Hot, scorching agony tore through my guts, and my body shook.


    This¡­ was the worst thing I¡¯d experienced in my entire life, and as my eyes finally drifted closed, I had a realization.


    All the paranoia and fears I¡¯d had earlier were utterly valid. It¡¯d been justified in this form ¨C in death.


    Now, I would never meet my baby.


    I would never get my happily ever after with Robert.


    This was the end. My end.

 The Fall Of Amanda ‘Not’ Clarke

    O, how the mighty fall! With ruin upon ruin, heap¡¯d, and vengeance answer¡¯d upon vengeance. ~ John Milton, Paradise Lost.


    ~~


    AMANDA


    ¡°I didn¡¯t pay you thousands to stop at every fucking checkpoint, Mister.¡± I seethed, gritting my teeth in anger, as the driver pulled to a stop at another police roadblock, this one much busier than the other two we passed.


    ¡°I have to fucking stop, missus.¡± He looked over his shoulder at me, scowling. ¡°Either this or my cab is confiscated, and I¡¯m fined. I damn well can¡¯t afford that, even with the scraps you¡¯re paying. So do me a favor, stop being a whiny bitch, and shut up.¡±


    My mouth flew open in surprise, and for a few seconds, all I could see were spots, my cheeks ming with rage. What the fuck?


    Did this good-for-nothing asshole just call me a whiny bitch? And did he call the 2, 000 extra dors scraps? Scraps? The fuck!


    I almostughed at the irony of my situation. Almost.


    Take deep breaths, Amanda. Deep¡­ deep¡­ deep fucking breaths, I told myself.


    You didn¡¯t skillfully manipte Kent into doing your bidding, pack a boatload of makeup on your face, and slip through street cameras and back alleyways just to get pissed off by some random bloke with a shitty attitude.


    You haven¡¯te this far to be stopped by something so small. You can¡¯t be upset right now and blow up your cover. Not with a cop standing less than three feet away.


    ¡°Who¡¯s in there with you?¡± As if reading my mind, the officer asked at the worst possible time.


    ¡°Um¡­ he¡­ she¡­ he¡­¡± The driver stammered, muttering an iprehensible response that didn¡¯t satisfy the cop because the next thing I knew, he was leaning forward and looking directly at me.


    ¡°Lower the windows,¡± He ordered gruffly. ¡°Now.¡±


    As the window rolled down, I could hear the driver swear beneath his breath.


    The cop peered in to get a better look at me, but when he couldn¡¯t see past my mask in the poorly lit cab. He pulled a shlight out and shined it directly into my eyes.


    Fuck! I winced, my breath hitching and my heart racing. I said nothing, though. I merely kept my look nk and neutral while the cop scrutinized me.


    His face was unreadable, his eyes steely and stern beneath the blue brim of his cap. For an agonizing couple of minutes, he inspected me with no reaction.


    Then he straightened and took one step back from the car. He said curtly to the driver. ¡°Where are you headed?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m driving my passenger home. Up north.¡± That was all the driver said, and the cop nodded. A few more conversations ensued, and then he waved us off.


    The moment the cab engine roared, and we were back on the road, a tension I hadn¡¯t realized I¡¯d been holding in released its grip. I slumped back against the seat, relief coursing through my veins. That had been close.


    ¡°Goodness¡­¡± I muttered and spoke again. ¡°You handled that well.¡±


    I was referring to the cop¡¯s questions about where we were going and the tactical response he provided.


    The driver gave a dry grunt of acknowledgment. ¡°Just doin¡¯ my job. Was part of your instructions when you got in my cab. I assume you¡¯re running from something or someone. What is it, mis-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business,¡± I cut him off abruptly. While he didn¡¯t sound usatory, the question was enough to get me up on my haunches again. ¡°How long until we get to the airport¡­¡±


    My words trailed off when I heard police sirens wailing in the distance, and I tensed immediately.


    Had I been busted? Shit. Shit. Shit.


    I wanted to dismiss the thought that the cop from earlier recognized me as the woman with the arrest warrant. Maybe I was just being paranoid ¨C but the wailing sounds were getting closer, louder, and drawing nearer. My gut twisted ufortably.


    ¡°You have to speed up.¡±


    ¡°What? Now?!¡± The driver¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°We¡¯re going fifty here. No way in hell am I going more than that in the middle of a fuckin¡¯ road,-¡±


    ¡°Do as I fucking say!¡± I angrily interrupted, bringing out the pistol I¡¯d tucked into my coat pocket. I pressed the barrel into his cheekbone. ¡°Drive faster!¡±


    The driver didn¡¯t argue for the first time tonight and obeyed my instructions. I saw terror in his eyes, sweat beading on his brow, and his hands shaking as he swapped gears and mmed on the elerator like a maniac.


    The cab¡¯s tires screeched as he sped down the road, making evasive moves and narrowly avoiding pedestrians whenever thenes sufficiently cleared for us to pass.


    The police cars continued to re behind, and now, without a doubt, I knew they wereing for us. For me. And they seemed to be gaining.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± The driver cursed loudly when he saw the headlights shing in the rearview mirror. ¡°Fuck! Fuck!¡±


    I looked up just in time to see the red lights shing above us just before the driver stomped on the brakes hard, jerking me forward and sending us careening to a sudden, jarring halt.


    A minuteter, the screech of tires and a loud boom reverberated inside the vehicle. I felt the floor shift slightly, and then a session of gunshots echoed as bullets pierced the metal panel of the passenger¡¯s side door.


    The car stopped moving. ss shattered. Something struck me hard in the chest. And I merely saw stars. Pain shot up my arm, throwing me backward, and my head smashed hard against the side window.


    ¡°Shit, shit¡­¡± I shook my head slowly, trying to clear it. When the blur faded away, I noticed blood trickling down my temple from where I¡¯d hit my head on the window.


    Shit. ¡°Fuck fuck fuck fuck¡­¡± I cursed, feeling hazy.


    I nced at the driver¡¯s seat. The poor man¡¯s limp body had fallen against the now-open door, and his blood spilled onto the asphalt below.


    ¡°Shit. Shit.¡± I cursed for the millionth time and tried to pull myself up, but before I could, the door beside me opened, and someone grabbed my arm roughly, dragging me out of the cab.


    My hand instinctively tightened around the pistol in my grip, and I pushed feebly against the firm hold, but whoever held me was stronger.


    ¡°Let go of me, jerk!¡± I spat, struggling to break free, but to no avail. So I cocked my gun as best I could, aimed it at the person ¨C a cop ¨C and fired.


    Boom!


    The thunderous sound rang out. The pistol slipped from my shaky hand, and the cop stumbled backward, releasing me.


    ¡°Son of a fucking bitch, you¡¯ll pay for that,¡± He growled, reaching for his radio.


    I heard him murmur something incoherent, like he was calling for backup, but that didn¡¯t stop me from bolting and sprinting as if my life depended on it. Well, it did depend on it.


    Of course, the road wasn¡¯t empty, and the sound of sirens soon filled the night, followed by shouts and yelling from officers in pursuit.


    Cars honked, and horns red as people mmed on their brakes, trying to swerve safely to avoid hitting me.


    People screamed and cursed, trying to get out of my way as I ran past. I probably looked like a lunatic let loose out on the street.


    My fake blonde wig had disappeared, something had torn my gray granny scarf to shreds, and blood and mud stained my oversized shirt and coat. But I didn¡¯t care that people threw horrific looks at me and that my disguise had been ruined. I just kept running without pause. I didn¡¯t stop. I couldn¡¯t stop.


    ¡®Continue running, Amanda. Keep running!¡¯ I screamed to myself internally, my pulse racing in my chest and my legs pumping as hard as possible.


    But even as the words left my mouth, I knew they were useless. I¡¯d never make it. The officers pursuing me were close behind. Too close¡­


    A sharp, piercing pain struck my left shoulder, and I felt myself stumbling sideways. My legs buckled beneath me, and the world swirled in front of my eyes as I fell to the ground.


    A painful whimper tore out from my throat. ¡°No¡­ no¡­¡±


    ¡°Freeze!¡± A voice barked. ¡°Police! Put your hands up! You¡¯re under arrest!¡±


    Iy still on the dirt, staring dumbly ahead. The throbbing in my shoulder continued, and waves of hot, searing agony shot through my entire left arm. What the hell did they shoot or zap me with?


    ¡°Hands on your head!¡± The voice ordered, and footsteps approached me rapidly. ¡°Now!¡±


    Someone reached out and grabbed thepel of my coat, yanking me to my feet. Cool metallic handcuffs wrapped over my wrist in seconds, and I let out another pained moan.


    ¡°Amanda rke, you are under arrest. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in the court ofw.¡±


    ¡°Let¡­let me go,¡± I croaked, shaking my head weakly and attempting to free my wrists, only to realize that the cuffs wouldn¡¯t budge no matter how hard I tugged. ¡°And don¡¯t touch me!¡± I yelled at the officers dragging me along. ¡°Leave me alone. I can walk.¡±


    They ignored me and dragged me further down the street.


    ¡°We have her,¡± I heard one of them whisper into his radio.


    ¡°Sure thing, Mr. rke.¡±


    Mr. rke? Well, of course.


    ¡°Bastard.¡± I hissed and looked ahead for the first time since I was caught.


    In the distance, police vans were parked, red lights shing brightly over their windshields, and the sounds of sirens rang in the usually busy street. Also a crowd had formed as expected, and all eyes were on me.


    There was also an ambnce, but that wasn¡¯t what got myplete attention. The ck Jeep pulling up next to it did.


    The doors opened quickly, and two people walked out. One of them was my ex-husband. Robert.


    He looked¡­ furious. And there was no mistaking the hate on his face as he stormed toward me.


    When he got closer, his face changed from hatred to disgust to something else entirely.


    ¡°Jesus Christ, Amanda!¡± He spat, stopping right in front of me. His cold eyes met mine. Anger and hurt flickering in their depths. ¡°You really are a piece of shit, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    I didn¡¯t answer, did not dare to speak. I merely returned his re, refusing to look away as I continued to fight against the officers still holding me.


    ¡°Will you just give up already? Stop this crazy act. There¡¯s nothing you can do anymore. You¡¯ve been caught!¡± Rageced his voice as he spoke. There was the slightest hint of sadness, too¡­or was it pity? I ground my teeth.


    ¡°Why?¡± He asked.


    My head straightened in surprise. ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    His blue, piercing eyes shed dangerously as he repeated the question. ¡°Why? Why did you do these things? Why did you kill an innocent man? Why-¡±


    ¡°Darren was never innocent,¡± I cut in bluntly with a sneer. ¡°He was a foolish boy who couldn¡¯tplete a simple task.¡± My gaze narrowed, and I hissed loudly. ¡°What¡¯s there to drug a bitch and kill her off immediately?¡±


    I watched as blood drained from Robert¡¯s face, and his eyes widened in shock. Then horror.


    I smirked. ¡°Just one task. One simple fucking task, and he blew it to the nines! He fucking failed me, the idiot.¡± A mockingugh left my lips as a memory came to me. ¡°But at least I taught him a lesson. I cornered him by the alleyway after you¡­¡± I tilted my chin at him, the image of Darren lying unconscious on the rough cobblestones shing across my mind. ¡°After you beat him up for touching your whore. I cornered and gutted him. He bled out while pleading for mercy. But I don¡¯t show mercy.¡± Iughed hysterically. ¡°My God, it was satisfying. Watching him die was so satisfying that I don¡¯t regret it. Not one bit.¡±


    ¡°God.¡± Robert gasped and stepped back, clearly shaken as a dark shadow passed over his features.


    I continued with a devilish grin. ¡°You see, my sweetheart, all the things I did, I¡¯ll do them again. You want to know why?¡± I didn¡¯t wait for him to answer. ¡°Because they were part of my goal.¡±


    ¡°Even framing me for murder?¡± He asked hoarsely.


    I shrugged. ¡°Well, that was to teach you a lesson. After you got back together with your¡­whore¡­¡± His jaw tightened at the derogatory word, and I snickered. It always made me chuckle when I called his little toy that. ¡°I decided then that you should suffer a little since you weren¡¯t getting the memo.¡±


    ¡°A little? Amanda, you framed me for murder! MURDER! If I¡¯d gone to court, I would¡¯ve gotten a life sentence or worse, the death penalty, and you call that little?¡±


    The reminder of the doom that awaited me now that I¡¯d been apprehended sent a chill down my spine.


    The death penalty. Or a lengthy sentence. I¡¯ll spend years holed up in a cell and¡­ No¡­ I shook the thoughts out of my head and forced myself to focus on Robert.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll admit it¡¯s not little, but you deserved it. And, if I couldn¡¯t have you, she couldn¡¯t either. The frame-up was a win-win for me in either way.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re sick in the head,¡± Robert muttered slowly. ¡°Fucking sick.¡±


    ¡°Sick? In the head? Only because I tried to bring us back together? To reunite our family? To-¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± He cut me off. ¡°You¡¯re so sick and demented and delusional to think we could ever get back together, that we could be a family again. Let alone a happy one.¡± His nostrils red. ¡°Damn it, Amanda! I¡¯ve been done with you for years! For years. Should I count? Twenty-one, two, three¡­twenty-four good years. And in all this time, I¡¯ve filed restraining order after order against you. Still, you refuse to let me be. Why? Why do you continue to be a thorn in my flesh, Amanda?¡±


    I scoffed. ¡°We made a vow, my love. Until death do us part, we said. And I intend to honor that.¡±


    ¡°Ugh¡­ you disgust me.¡± His icy stare pierced my soul. ¡°You are a fucking psycho, Amanda. I can¡¯t believe we were ever married.¡±


    Internally, I flinched.


    ¡°Love, darling.¡± I swallowed the lump in my throat. ¡°Love makes us do things without thinking. You called me a psycho, and what if I am? What if I am a psycho-lover girl? Huh? I am a psycho for you. A crazed woman solely for you. Can¡¯t you see it?¡±


    Robert didn¡¯t respond for a hearty minute. Then he sighed, looked away, and back at me again before speaking.


    ¡°This is your end, Amanda.¡± His jaw clenched as he continued to talk. ¡°You¡¯vemitted too many crimes, and you just admitted to another one. You have a very slim chance ofing out of this innocent.¡±


    Despite the fear running through me, I hissed and puffed my face as if daring him to do his worst. I even tried taking a step forward, but the officers held me back.


    ¡°What¡¯s with this disguise, anyway? That is just another crime, do you know that? You had an arrest warrant, and you thought donning a mask, forging a passport, and fleeing the country would get you off the hook? Really?¡± He scoffed. ¡°Oh Amanda, how foolish of you.¡±


    ¡°Foolish? You think I¡¯m foolish?¡± I retorted hotly. ¡°Wait till you see what else I have in store for you.¡±


    Robert shook his head sadly. ¡°See what I mean? You¡¯re pathetic. Completely pathetic.¡± He chuckled softly, his eyes sparkling with rage still. ¡°You won¡¯t win, Amanda. Hell, you¡¯ve already lost. There are cuffs on your wrists and a well-prepared case against you. It¡¯s over.¡±


    Was it?


    ¡°Oh, dear ex-husband of mine, it¡¯s not over yet.¡± My lips formed a cruel smile. ¡°It never ends, Robert. Not with me. You may have caught me now, but if you knew me well, you should know that this cannot be the end of my¡­of our story.¡±


    ¡°Oh,e on,¡± Robert mocked, raising his hands in the air.


    I smirked. ¡°I¡¯m mad, yes. A fool for love? I wholeheartedly agree with that phrase. I¡¯m even a psychopath, and oh, how I love that word. But if there¡¯s one thing you¡¯ve forgotten about me, it is that I¡¯m smart.¡±


    His eyebrows rose slightly.


    ¡°I¡¯m incredibly smart. That¡¯s why I could cheat on you right under your nose.¡± I tilted my chin again at him. ¡°Do you think Tom was the only one I slept with back then? Surely, you don¡¯t think I was wholly faithful to you.¡±


    Robert let out a deep growl. He looked at the police officers and opened his mouth as if to say something, but I beat him to it.


    ¡°me it on the pregnancy hormones, but yes, I was unfaithful. You were always busy with work, and I just couldn¡¯t¡­ no, let me not go into details. There isn¡¯t time for that, and you could do without the humiliation.¡± I shrugged. ¡°Now, you see, I¡¯ve outsmarted you tonight.¡±


    His jaw stiffened.


    ¡°That party of yours? I knew you threw it to lure me out. You wanted me to show up and make a fuss since all my ns were botched¡­¡± I scoffed. ¡°Hm, stupid, stupid bait. Well, guess what? I did show up. Not in person, of course  I¡¯m not that foolish, but right now, I¡¯m there.¡±


    ¡°What the fuck are you on about? Why am I still even listening to you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll listen. You have to. Or else it won¡¯t make sense.¡± I chuckled bitterly. ¡°I can¡¯t wait. I can¡¯t wait to see your expression when you hear it. And I can¡¯t wait to see the end of that bitch¡­ Oh, I can¡¯t wait¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop talking.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t, darling. I-¡±


    ¡°Take her away,¡± He yelled aggressively at the officers. ¡°Get her out¡­¡± his voice broke as his cell phone rang.


    He swiftly removed the device from his pocket and tapped the answer button.


    I watched as his body tensed, and his demeanor changed instantly. His brow furrowed in confusion. His lips parted as his eyes widened, disbelief etched across his features.


    ¡°No¡­no¡­¡± His hand began shaking uncontrobly as he murmured. ¡°No¡­¡±


    Suddenly, the phone slid out of his hand andnded on the ground with an audible thud, drawing everyone¡¯s attention.


    He slowly turned his gaze to me. ¡°What did you do?¡± His lips trembled as he spoke, staring directly at me as realization dawned on him.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I grinned¡­ an evil, cruel, victorious grin that screamed of the power I had over him. And by God, did I have it.


    He was only now understanding the meaning of my taunts. I¡¯m sure he just learned about the poisoning. Kent must have done an excellent job, as always.


    The wicked grin on my lips stretched even more.


    I watched as Robert¡¯s entire body shake, from his lips to his hands and feet. Seeing him shake and shudder simultaneously, with tears welling in his eyes, was almost hrious. Strangely, the sight made me feel better, so much better.


    ¡°I told you¡­.  I never finished with you, Robbie,¡± I said slowly, enunciating the next words. ¡°This¡­ Us¡­ it wasn¡¯t over. You ruined my happy ending, so it¡¯s only fair that I do the same to you.¡±


    ¡°What the hell did you do? What have you done to Renee?¡± He lurched forward, his movements shaky, and lunged at me as if to strike. ¡°Answer me!¡±


    Someone grabbed him by his wrist before he could get me. It was the man who¡¯de with him from the Jeep.


    ¡°Stop, Robert!¡± The man yanked hard on Robert¡¯s arms, attempting to stop him from moving further. ¡°You don¡¯t want to do this, man.¡±


    ¡°But I do want to!¡± Robert roared in protest. He struggled violently in the man¡¯s grip. ¡°I¡¯m going to kill her. I swear, if anything happens to Renee¡­ if anything happens, I¡¯ll skin her alive. I¡¯ll kill-¡±


    ¡°Stop this, man. Come on.¡±


    But he ignored the man¡¯s plea. ¡°LET ME GO!¡± He yelled, still fighting to be free.


    Another officer quickly joined in roughly restraining him and eventually they managed to drag him away.


    My gaze stayed fixed on Robert¡¯s form as he was led away. He continued to shout and struggle, repeating my name and cursing the day he met me.


    Thest thing I saw before he was hauled into his car was his angry red re burning into my flesh before the doors closed, blocking my view.


    ¡°Move!¡± The officers holding memanded.


    Before I could take a step, though, they were already dragging me toward one of the waiting police vans. With little effort, they pushed me inside, and the door mmed shut in my face.


    Slumping back against the seat and sighing, I closed my eyes as the day¡¯s events caught up with me.


    I¡¯d done it. I¡¯d fucking done it!


    I may have failed in my n to leave the country, but I¡¯d surely aplished my goal of ruining Robert.


    Thanks to my clever ruse ¨C my fail-safe n ¨C that bitch was going to die. A slow, excruciating, torturous death.


    I stared out the window of the speeding vehicle, murmuring two words to myself over and over. ¡°I won¡­I won.¡±


    I¡¯d seeded in separating Robert and Renee for good this time. And I¡¯d be damned if I didn¡¯t enjoy every second of this¡­ even in the prison cell awaiting me¡­

 A Miracle…Just A Miracle

    ROBERT


    ¡°¡­bad news, Robert. You need to get here. Renee¡­ She was drugged. Or poisoned. I¡­I¡¯m not sure, but she fainted. She¡¯s in a critical condition, and her life is hanging on by a thread¡­¡±


    Nicole¡¯s words swarmed and raced in my mind like angry gnats as I rushed past the hospital¡¯s reception, the busy ER nurses and medics, and through the bustling hospital corridors to the VIP room reserved exclusively for the rke household.


    I could hear my heart thumping steadily, but the agony was nothingpared to the million terrifying thoughts flying through my mind. Every thought brought me back to that single word. Drugged. Or was it¡­Poisoned?


    Renee had been poisoned. Fuck no!


    This couldn¡¯t be real. What I¡¯d heard on the phone earlier wasn¡¯t true, neither was this situation. It was a prank. Maybe someone, Nicole or Renee herself, was pulling a cruel joke on me.


    Yes. That¡¯s it. And by the heavens, my woman was okay.


    She was at the mansion, and the party was still in full swing. She wasn¡¯t here at the hospital. I was going to walk in there and see it was someone else. That they¡¯d made a mistake.


    Remember the sickening look on Amanda¡¯s face, though. She got you again, Robert. And this time, she hit you right in your most vulnerable spot. She won, and you lost. YOU LOST!


    ¡°No¡­¡± My voice cracked.


    Remember Renee¡¯s worried thoughts earlier? She had a feeling something horrible was about to happen. You should¡¯ve trusted her guts. Instead, you ignored it, Robert. And now¡­


    ¡°No¡­¡± I said again, freezing in my tracks, when I eventually reached the door to the private room.


    My entire body shook fiercely, riddled with fear and¡­ despair. I hadn¡¯t even seen her yet, but I could feel the dread¡­ the weight of my loss so deep inside my stomach.


    ¡°Mr. rke¡­¡± the guard who had followed me inside spoke from behind. ¡°Should I¡­¡±


    I didn¡¯t let him finish, though, as I lifted shaky hands and pushed at the double ss doors with all my might. The double ss doors swung open effortlessly, and I was confronted with an image that utterly crushed me.


    It looked like a scene straight out of my worst nightmares. Only this time, it was real and not a figment of my imagination. It was so fucking real.


    There she was ¨C the outline of an unconscious Renee lying on the white hospital bed. She appeared deathly pale, her skin dreadfully white. Tubes and cables were linked to every part of her body.


    She looked nothing like the woman I had been with earlier tonight. Nothing. This was not my Renee. There was no sparkle, no light, no nothing¡­ just an unresponsive, lifeless shell.


    It was unexpected, puzzling¡­ horrible. I couldn¡¯t bring myself to move any further into the room. The air felt dense and frigid, smothering me, making breathing difficult.


    ¡°God, Robert¡­¡± A gentle murmur broke through my paralysis, and I turned to face the sound, instantly recognizing Nicole¡¯s soft, broken voice.


    I must¡¯ve missed her because she was standing away from the door, resting against a wall. She wasn¡¯t alone. Renee¡¯s bodyguard, Harry, was present, as was another girl. Sally, Sammy, or whatever her name was. I couldn¡¯t force myself to recollect.


    They were all distraught, but Nicole appeared to be the most visibly affected.


    Her lips quiveredpulsively, her eyes appeared ssy with red rims, her long ck hair twisted, and the knots adhered to her face in clumps.


    Her gown was ragged and filthy, and I could swear I saw bloodstains. I shuddered, wondering if they were Renee¡¯s. Fuck. Overall, she was a mess.


    I wanted to say something. Perhaps tofort her? But I didn¡¯t know how. I knew I needed to speak, but words wouldn¡¯te. I¡­


    ¡°I¡­ I sincerely apologize, Robert. This was entirely my fault¡­ I¡­¡± She stopped and drew a trembling breath. ¡°I wasn¡¯t with Renee when it happened. I should¡¯ve been with her. I¡­¡± her voice caught again, but I didn¡¯t push her to continue.


    I eventually forced myself to speak. ¡°Where is the doctor?¡± I swallowed hard as my chest heaved. ¡°Why is there no medical personnel or¡­¡± My temper was ring. ¡°What¡¯s the prognosis? What¡¯s her current condition? She isn¡¯t¡­? Renee can¡¯t be¡­ The monitors¡­¡± I turned to face the beepingputers, gesturing vaguely at them with shaky fingers. ¡°They¡¯re still reading, so there¡¯s hope. She¡¯s alive, right?¡± I asked weakly. ¡°Fuck¡­¡±


    Nicole said nothing, just held back a choked sob, and my heart shattered all over again.


    ¡°What the fuck is going on?¡± I hissed violently.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    ¡°The doctor left a while ago. But he¡¯ll be back. He said something about wanting Renee¡¯s blood to be purified before¡­¡±


    I blocked out the rest of Nicole¡¯s words as a strangled sound escaped my throat. ¡°Fuck!¡± I cursed and started pacing back and forth. ¡°Fuck¡­ fuck¡­ fuck!¡±


    ¡°Sir, please calm down. The¡­¡± Harry started and my head snapped, my steely gaze meeting his. ¡°Fuck you!¡± I was livid. ¡°Where the hell were you when this happened? Harry, you were meant to stay at her side at all times tonight. At all times!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir.¡±


    ¡°You are sorry?¡± I scoffed. ¡°You¡¯re sorry¡­¡± I let out a broken giggle as I repeated the words. ¡°Oh, but if something happens to Renee¡­ if anything happens to her¡­¡± My words choked in themselves. ¡°There¡¯ll be hell to pay, Harry. I¡¯ll end¡­¡±


    The abrupt swing of the room¡¯s door cut short my rant, and in walked the doctor. His attention immediately focused on mine, and his demeanor softened somewhat.


    It wasn¡¯t much change as he quickly wore his professional mask. ¡°Mr. rke¡­ you¡¯ve arrived just in time.¡±


    ¡°Yes. Yes, I have.¡±


    ¡°I requested for Miss Micheal¡¯s rtives, though. I¡¯ll need family consent for-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m her husband,¡± I interrupted sharply.


    ¡°Oh.¡± The doctor raised his brow in surprise.


    ¡°Yes. So, I can provide any consent you need.¡±


    He nodded slowly. ¡°Right, of course.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the update?¡± I demanded impatiently.


    The doctor looked away briefly before returning to face me, his visage hardening and bing grim. ¡°Well, as you may know, the patient was the victim of poisoning. Fortunately, she was brought in early, and we administered a counter-effective antidote. We are actively draining the dangerous toxin from her system. However¡­¡± He paused momentarily. ¡°¡­we have a problem.¡±


    A chill ran down my spine.


    ¡°What¡¯s the problem? Will Renee be okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The doctor nodded. ¡°Hopefully, she will be okay, but I don¡¯t know if¡­ the fetuses will survive it.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I frowned in confusion. ¡°Fetuses? Do you mean babies?¡±


    The doctor stiffly nodded and was about to say something again, but Nicole¡¯s muffled gasp from behind interrupted him. ¡°Oh, no!¡± I turned to see a shocked expression on her face. ¡°Renee never told you?¡±


    ¡°Told me what?¡±


    ¡°God, no!¡± Her hands reached up to cover her mouth. ¡°I¡¯m so, so sorry.¡±


    ¡°Sorry?¡± My frown deepened. ¡°Can someone tell-¡±


    ¡°Renee was¡­ is pregnant.¡± Nicole muttered.


    ¡°What?!¡±


    At those words, my world came to a halt. It was as if time had stopped entirely, and everything darkened. The color drained from my face. Suddenly, the room spun about, and I staggered backward, barely holding myself as my knees crumbled.


    Pregnant? Renee was pregnant. With not one but two babies. Twins. Our twins.


    No¡­ it couldn¡¯t be. She never mentioned it. She¡­


    ¡°No¡­¡± I scoffed. ¡°How? I¡­ I¡­ I mean, since when? Did you know about this?¡±


    ¡°I did,¡± she whispered, tears running down her face. ¡°Renee found out the day she visited you in jail.¡±


    ¡°What the¡­?!¡±


    ¡°She decided to keep it a secret until your investigation was over and things returned to normal.¡±


    Nicole continued to speak, but the words became muddled from the flurry of thoughts racing around in my head and¡­ and it all made sense. Everything clicked into ce. The weight gain I¡¯d noticed. Her selective appetite. The erratic mood swings. I should¡¯ve connected the dots. I should¡¯ve known.


    ¡°Oh, Renee.¡± A lump formed in my throat. ¡°I am such an idiot. Such a stupid moron. But she could¡¯ve said something. She could have told-¡±


    ¡°She was scared, Robert,¡± Nicole interjected softly. ¡°With the murder scandal going on, she didn¡¯t want you to worry about anything else.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my God.¡± This time, I didn¡¯t stop myself. As my eyes closed, I let a tear fall. Then another. Then another¡­


    ¡°Mr. rke.¡± The doctor¡¯s voice pierced through my anguish. ¡°Please, if you could hold yourself together long enough to sign a form.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± I blinked the wetness from my eyes. ¡°What form?¡±


    ¡°Here¡­¡± He gave me a clipboard and a pen. ¡°Before you sign, however, I must exin a few things.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    The doctor cleared his throat. ¡°First, I¡¯ll start by saying the form you¡¯re holding is a consent decree stating that if pushes to shove, the medical team will flush out the fetuses immediately to speed up Ms. Michael¡¯s recovery.¡±


    My blood ran cold.


    ¡°I know I said earlier that we¡¯ve administered an antidote, but it¡¯s still only a temporary measure.¡± The doctor paused. ¡°To be honest, the chances of a healthy recovery are extremely slim. I have my numbers, though.¡±


    ¡°Numbers?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Ms. Micheal has a ten percent certainty of living with both babies in her womb. She has a thirty-seven percent chance of surviving with only one fetus. And there¡¯s a fifty-fifty chance she¡¯ll recoverpletely without issues.¡±


    ¡°And that¡¯s¡­¡± I forced myself to breathe. ¡°That is all I need to know?¡±


    ¡°Basically.¡±


    My hands shook as I looked down at the paper. The doctor¡¯s predicted numbers and the words on the sheet danced before my eyes.


    Ten percent. Thirty-seven percent. Fifty-fifty.


    I had to sign off on the lives of my unborn children. I was delivering them to the frigid hands of death while still digesting the news of their existence. Bile rose in the back of my throat. It was almost unbearable, and I felt sick.


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t want to do this¡­¡± My voice trembled. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t¡­ Nicole¡­ I¡­¡± I swallowed another hopeless whimper and pushed myself to meet the stare of Renee¡¯s best friend. She looked at me carefully, her eyes overflowing with pity and grief.


    ¡°But you will,¡± She stated sadly, reaching for my quivering hands. ¡°You need to do this, Robert. It¡¯s for the best. You understand, right?¡± Her fingers tightened around my left ones. ¡°Please. Do this. For Renee. Do it for Renee.¡±


    Her plea crushed my heart.


    ¡°I don¡¯t deserve this, Nicole¡­¡± Tears fell rapidly down my cheeks as I made my decision, signing away. ¡°She doesn¡¯t deserve this¡­ we don¡¯t deserve¡­ this.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t,¡± she said.


    ¡°H¡­ How did we get here?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Robert.¡± As I returned the clipboard to the doctor, I felt Nicole¡¯s arms round my shoulders. She was pulling me in for a consoling hug, a soothing embrace meant to alleviate the pain, but aggravated it instead. ¡°Everything will be okay. I know this.¡±


    I desperately wanted to believe her. I wanted to.


    In seconds, I crumbled against her, my chest convulsing with each sob that left my lips. I didn¡¯t care that I was crying out loud. And I didn¡¯t stop.


    Mercilessly. Over and over, the tears flowed endlessly, leaving me with nothing but a void of raw anguish, despair, misery, and, most notably, fear. Fear of the unknown. I was afraid that Renee would not make it and that my life, as I knew it, would end.


    ¡°The only thing we can do now is pray for a miracle, Mr. rke,¡± The doctor¡¯s calm voice prated my foggy numbness. I blinked as he repeated the words before exiting the room. ¡°A miracle. Just a miracle¡­¡±


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