《Trapped In Her Heart》


 Chapter 1 - Golden opportunity

    Los Angeles.


    "Arrrggghhh..." Ellie Miller groaned before sticking her hand out of the warm blanket.


    Her hand waved around her bedside table, trying very hard to look for the alarm clock that was screaming its lungs out.


    "Damn!" She cursed before sticking her head out. Grabbing the alarm clock, she shouted, "Fine Mr. Clock, I am up now so shut up!"


    Scratching her head, she yawned and stretched her body before burying her head back in the pillow, all ready to doze off to sleep again.


    After a few minutes, she widened her eyes in shock and yelled, "F.u.c.k Ellie, you are f.u.c.k.i.n.g doomed," before jumping out of the bed and rushing towards the wardrobe. "Oh God, I am so dead."


    After grabbing a random white top and a pair of skinny jeans, she took off her nightwear and started changing her clothes.


    "You are an idiot," she murmured before trying to fit into her pants but eventually lost her balance and ended up landing on her butt.


    Wincing in pain, she cursed her pants for being too skinny. She then somehow pulled herself up and started rubbing her butt cheeks which still felt sore.


    After taking a few deep breaths to calm herself down, Ellie patted her chest. "Don''t freak out Ellie Miller, we can do this."


    When she was done changing, she grabbed a random scrunchie from the dressing table and tied her hair into a ponytail, then she rushed towards the washroom to brush her teeth, wash her face, and make sure her hair was in place.


    When she was all done, she grabbed her file and hurriedly left.


    ¡­..


    Looking at all the mess in the living room and the multiple unopened boxes, Ellie scratched her forehead. It had been a week since she moved into a two-bedroom apartment, but she hadn''t put away her things yet.


    Squatting down, she joined her hands and murmured, "I am sorry Mr. Box but I swear I''ll deal with you when I come back. Wish me luck!"Grabbing the apartment keys, she took a few deep breaths before leaving her apartment.


    Ellie Miller is from Seattle, a city in Washington. She had just moved to Los Angeles a week ago to find a decent job for herself. After graduating from Seattle University and working for some small companies for a few years, she wanted to try something big and different.


    When her childhood best friend told her about a vacant job at the company she was working at, Ellie decided to give it a shot.


    Ellie Miller is an ambitious, smart, kind, humble, and fun-loving twenty-five-year-old woman. Coming from an ordinary family, she had her own struggles but she never complained. She was happy with whatever God had given her and lived for the moment without caring about what would happen next.


    Not only did she have a fun-loving and kind nature but Ellie was beautiful too. With her greenish-blue round eyes, brown hair, and all her curves at the right place, she could easily attract anyone''s attention and could captivate them in the web of her natural beauty.


    ¡­..


    Stewart International Group.


    Hopping out of the taxi, Ellie rushed towards the tall building.


    "Ellie Miller you are so f.u.c.k.i.n.g dead," Ellie murmured when she saw her friend standing near the entrance of the building with her hands on her waist.


    Melissa Roger rushed towards her unpunctual childhood best friend and yanked at her, "How can you be late El? And what the f.u.c.k are you wearing? Didn''t I ask you to wear something formal? You are¡ª"


    Pouncing into Melissa''s embrace, Ellie sighed, "Ahhh Mel I missed you so much."


    The small flame of anger that was burning inside Melissa quickly dissipated and she hugged her best friend tighter, "Ahhh I missed you too."


    Pulling back, Ellie gave her a guilty and innocent look. "I am sorry, actually I forgot to set my alarm and¡ª"


    "We will talk about your alarm later, which I am very sure that you slammed it off. You are already late for the interview, El. We gotta rush." Without waiting for her to finish her silly excuse, Melissa grabbed Ellie''s hand and dragged her inside the building.


    ¡­.


    Inside the building.


    "Hey Patricia, this is Ellie Miller and she is here for the interview," Melissa said before raising Ellie''s hand.


    Waving her other hand at the middle-aged woman, Ellie smiled. "Hey, Patricia."


    "24th floor, the president''s office. Hurry!" Patricia snapped.


    "Thanks, Patricia." Melissa blew a kiss at her and rushed towards the elevator.


    ¡­..


    Outside the President''s office.


    "Alright, are you ready? Are you nervous?" Melissa asked.


    "What if I say I am?" Ellie questioned back. She was really very nervous, so nervous that her hands were turning cold. Working in a company as big as Stewart International Group was huge and she didn''t want this golden opportunity to slip from her hands.


    "Okay El, breathe with me." After taking a few deep breaths, Mellisa added, "You can do this, babe, it''s just an interview. I know you will rock this."


    Ellie nodded and gave Mellisa a hug before entering the office.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 2 - Sore butt and nose

    Inside the office.


    Tapping his fingers on the desk, he kept glancing at his watch with a huge frown on his face. "Who is next?"


    Looking at the list of interviewees, Noah said, "Ellie Miller."


    "Why isn''t she in yet?" the man asked.


    Noah sighed and helplessly shook his head. "Oh come on Seb, she is just running a minute late. I am sure she will be in any minute and if you are late for your meeting, leave this hiring your assistant thing to me. I''ll hire the best one for you."


    Glaring at his cousin, Sebastian Stewart narrowed his eyes. "Best? Wasn''t the last one that you hired for me also the best? And what happened? Well, I don''t think so I have to remind you about that."


    Noah frowned and snapped, "Dude, she was hot."


    "Why did you hire her anyway? She had worked in a strip club before, wasn''t that reason enough for you to chuck her out?" Sebastian asked.


    " I told you she was hot and-"


    Cutting Noah off, Sebastian added, "She was more horny than hot."


    Noah vigorously nodded his head and added, "I know and you were supposed to sleep with her. I was actually helping you get laid man, thank me."


    Sebastian was about to say something when someone opened the door.


    "I am so-aaaahhhhh." Ellie screamed when she accidentally tripped and landed on the floor. She hit her nose against the floor and her doc.u.ments scattered all over the place.


    "Oh God Ellie." Mellisa shouted and rushed towards Ellie.


    When Mellisa entered the office, Noah quickly got up and rushed towards them while Sebastian stood rooted where he was with a huge frown on his face.


    "El are you fine?" Mellisa asked.


    Rubbing her nose which had turned red, Ellie vigorously shook her head. She had just hit her nose against the floor so no, she wasn''t fine.


    "Why are you always so clumsy? Arrgghh what do I do with you?" Mellisa murmured before helping her up.


    Noah picked up all the papers from the ground and placed them inside the file. "Are you fine?"


    Ellie reluctantly nodded her head while Mellisa elbowed her boyfriend.


    "Huh babe, what happened?" Noah asked.


    Inching closer, Mellisa whispered, "I hope you did what I had asked you to."


    When Noah slowly nodded his head, Mellisa checked on Ellie for the last time and left after wishing her luck.


    "Do you want some ice?" Noah asked.


    Ellie shook her head and smiled. "No, I am good."


    "Alright, let''s start the interview. This way please." Noah guided Ellie towards the desk.


    Placing his pen down, Sebastian leaned back on his chair and asked, "You are late by five minutes, what excuse would you like you put forward for being unpunctual."


    Leaning towards his weird cousin, Noah whispered, "Dude you just saw, she tripped and landed on her nose right in front of you."


    "I am so sorry for running late. Honestly, I didn''t wish all of this to happen, I mean who would right? So I set up an early alarm but I don''t know what happened. I ended up turning it off and decided to sleep again. Then I realised that I cannot do this so I woke up but ended up falling on my butt so yeah, my butt was already sore and now my nose feels sore too and then-" Ellie stopped midway Noah gave her a dead signal and placed his fingers in his lips indicating her not to talk so much.


    Awkwardly scratching her forehead, Ellie cleared her throat. "Ehh I am sorry for running late, it won''t happen again."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Sebastian asked, "Is someone going to deliver your resume on my table?"


    Sticking her tongue out, Ellie gave him an awkward smile and quickly fished out her resume from her file.


    While Sebastian was busy going through her resume, Ellie couldn''t take her eyes off the handsome man sitting right in front of her.


    The articles that she had read about Sebastian Stewart being a handsome hunk totally did justice to his beautiful face.


    From his beautiful light brown eyes to his perfect jawlines and nose, he looked handsome in every possible profile.


    "I see you have an experience of working as an assistant for a software company in Seattle and that is also the last company you have worked in. Why did you decide to leave?" Sebastian asked.


    "I always wanted to try something big and different so I decided to shift to L.A and try being independent." Ellie answered.


    "So you think moving to L.A and working here is big?" Sebastian asked.


    "I am sorry, don''t you think this company is big? And-" Ellie widened her eyes in shock and vigorously shook her head, "No no I mean, I know this company is big."


    Slapping his forehead, Noah helplessly shook his head.


    Staring at Ellie for quite some time, Sebastian said, "Alright, you can leave."


    "What? That''s it?" Ellie asked.


    Sebastian raised his eyebrows and asked, "You want me to ask you more questions?"


    Ellie vigorously shook her head and quickly rushed out of the office.


    "Isn''t she good? I mean look at her, she is beautiful, smart, looks intelligent and-"


    Cutting Noah off, Sebastian said, "Chuck her out and hire the man whom we had interviewed before her."


    Noah widened his eyes in shock and asked, "You are kidding me right?"


    "Unpunctual, clumsy, carefree and a big mouth. Almost everything that I don''t like." After pointing out Ellie''s flaws, Sebastian got up and left for his scheduled meeting.


    After Sebastian left, Noah frowned and kept on staring at the interviewees list.


    After a few seconds, his lips curled upwards when something struck him. Fishing his phone out, Noah patted his own shoulder and proudly exclaimed, "God Noah Stewart, you are a f.u.c.k.i.n.g genius."


    ....

 Chapter 3 - Doomed

    Outside the office.


    When Melissa saw Ellie, she quickly got up and rushed towards her. "How was it? Did you get through? Did Noah help you? Did Sebastian make things difficult for you?"


    Placing her hand in Melissa''s shoulder, Ellie took a deep breath. "Too many questions Mel, I am still traumatised because of the fall."


    "Traumatised? Aren''t you already used to it? You fall literally everywhere." Melissa added.


    Ellie sighed and helplessly shook her head. "That is true, I wonder how I manage to fall everywhere. In the morning, I landed on my butt and it''s still sore."


    Taking her hands towards Ellie''s butt, Melissa asked, "Do you want my special butt massage?"


    "Wait what? What the hell is a butt massage?" Ellie asked. She wondered how her best friend managed to come up with weird and lewd things like a butt massage.


    "Well you know, cupping the butt cheeks and then squishing it tightly and-"


    Cutting her off, Ellie covered her ears and closed her eyes. "Stop Mel, I don''t wanna hear it."


    Grabbing her wrist, Mellisa chuckled and tried to remove Ellie''s hands off her ears. "What? What are you so shy about? You should know about these things so that later when it really happens, you will know what you are supposed to do."


    Ellie frowned deeper and vigorously shook her head. "There is no way I am giving anyone a butt massage. Oh my God, why am I even having this conversation with you? Go get away from me, go to your boyfriend and give him butt massages."


    Winking at her, Melissa grinned. "He gets in every night."


    Closing her eyes, Ellie groaned, "Oh stop, that is too much information."


    Melissa rolled her eyes and snapped, "Geez El, what are you shy about? It''s not like you don''t know what a butt looks like."


    "Well, talking about a butt isn''t a problem but talking about your boyfriend''s butt is a very big problem because if we do that, all I will think about is Noah''s butt whenever he is around and you don''t want that to happen or do you?" Ellie asked.


    Melissa nodded her head and hooked her arms around Ellie''s neck. "Alright, let''s not talk about Noah''s butt, let''s talk about Sebastian''s s.e.xy, round butt."


    When Ellie did not say anything, Melissa chuckled. "Ahhh don''t tell me you are already thinking about his butt. Geez girl, you also got deceived by his handsome and charming face."


    Slapping Melissa''s hand away, Ellie frowned. "What deceived? I have seen better."


    "Don''t tell me you didn''t find him attractive and s.e.xy." Without waiting for her reply, Melissa added, "If you didn''t then there is something wrong with you."


    "Why so?" Ellie asked.


    "Girls literally drool and drop their underwear down when they see Sebastian. He is like the handsome prince charming that every woman wants. There are several women waiting for him with their legs wide open." Pausing for a while, Melissa added, "But Sebastian doesn''t give a shit about them. That man would rather f.u.c.k his doc.u.ments and his office desk than a horny woman."


    Ellie raised her eyebrows and asked, "So you mean Sebastian Stewart is a gay?"


    "Actually-" stopping midway, Melissa widened her eyes in shock when she saw Sebastian standing right behind them.


    "Actually what? If it is really like what you said, I think he is a-mmmmmm¡­"


    Cutting her off midway by placing her hand on Ellie''s mouth, Mellisa pursed her lips.


    Smiling at Sebastian, Melissa said, "Hey Seb, I was just showing Ellie around."


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and slowly removed Melissa''s hand from her mouth. Turning around, when she saw Sebastian, Ellie widened her eyes in shock.


    Without glancing at them, Sebastian straightened his suit and left.


    "Please tell me he did not hear what I just said." Cursing herself for having a big mouth, Ellie sighed. If Sebastian had really heard her, she was doomed. How could she expect him to give her a job after calling him a gay right in front of his face?


    Crossing her fingers, Melissa pursed her lips. "I hope not."


    "Oh God Mel, I am so doomed. I am not gonna get this job and if I don''t get this job, I have to move back to Seattle. Moving back to Seattle means I''ll have to join that boring company again. Oh God I-" grabbing her hair, Ellie groaned in frustration. This was the worst day of her life. "Just great, this is so great. I have a sore butt and a sore nose and now I am jobless before getting a job. Can life be a little less harsh with me?"


    Placing her hand on Ellie''s shoulder, Melissa fronwed, "El relax, don''t panic okay? I don''t think so he heard you. It''s not like he has special hearing skills and you weren''t even loud so just chill okay? And don''t forget that Noah is helping us. With your qualifications, talents and Noah''s help, you will definitely get through."


    Just then Noah came out of office with a huge grin on his face. "Oh hello ladies, it''s good to see you both again."


    When Melissa gave him a ''Is the work done?'' look, Noah cheekily smiled. "Have I not done something that my baby wants me to?"


    When Melissa smiled, Noah patted his chest and grinned, "It''s done honey."


    Pouncing into his embrace, Melissa excitedly squealed. "Ahhh babe you are such a sweetheart."


    "So am I getting another butt massage tonight?" Noah asked.


    When Melissa chuckled and nodded her head, Ellie covered her ears and sighed. "I am outta here."


    "You aren''t going anywhere, let''s go for lunch together. Babe you don''t have a meeting right?" Melissa asked.


    Giving her a peck on her cheeks, Noah shook his head. "Who better than you knows about my schedule?"


    Noah Stewart was Sebastian''s first cousin and the VP of Stewart Corporation. He was the only son of Sebastian''s father''s younger brother while Melissa Powell was Noah''s assistant/girlfriend.


    Melissa and Noah had been dating for two years now and were also planning to get engaged very soon.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 4 - Thirty layers

    Squeezing his cheeks, Melissa gave him a peck on his lips. "Awww my baby is so cute."


    Ellie chuckled when she saw Noah''s smitten expression. He looked totally knocked down by Melissa.


    Seeing the two couples singing praises of each other and together, Ellie felt incredibly happy and sour at the same time. She was incredibly happy for Melissa and was actually feeling sour for herself. Would she ever manage to find someone who would love her with all his heart and soul? If yes, then when?


    Brushing her thoughts away, Ellie inwardly rolled her eyes when they saw the love birds happily kissing each other. "Oh please, stop this PDA. If you both continue, I''ll have to take out my eyeballs and rinse them with holy water."


    Pulling away, Melissa pouted her lips and complained, "Single people don''t get to complain about PDA okay?"


    "Ellie is single?" Noah asked.


    When Melissa nodded her head, Noah raised his eyebrows. "But why?"


    Giving him a weak smile, Ellie shrugged her shoulders. How could she answer such a weird question? How would she know why she is single?


    "Okay, so do you wanna stay single?" Noah asked. When Ellie gave him a confused look, Noah added, "I mean I can introduce you to someone if you are interested in dating."


    "Well-"


    Cutting Ellie off, Melissa excitedly exclaimed, "Oh please do. Add some colours in my boring friend''s life."


    Noah nodded his head and smiled. "Cool, let''s go have lunch first."


    ¡­..


    Outside Stewart Corporation.


    Melissa, Ellie and Noah were happily chatting amongst themselves when a black Mercedes stopped right in front of the entrance.


    The chauffeur quickly hopped out and opened the back door and stepped back.


    Just then, a woman stepped out of the car and gestured the chauffeur to move away. She then fixed her sunglasses and made her way towards the building.


    Stopping right in front of Noah, the woman took off her glasses and gave him a hug. "Ahh Noah, where are you going? Isn''t it work time right now?"


    Hugging her back, Noah said, "Well, it''s lunch time so no work."


    "Ahh I see, where is Sebastian?" The woman asked.


    "He is in a meeting."


    "Hello aunty." Melissa smiled and politely greeted Rebecca Stewart, Sebastian''s mother.


    Giving Melissa a hug, Rebecca patted her back. "It''s good to see you again."


    Pulling away, Melissa was about to introduce Ellie but Rebecca completely ignored her actions and left.


    "Argggh such a bitch." Melissa murmured before turning towards Noah who had a ''I can''t do anything about it'' expression on his face.


    "Who is she?" Ellie asked.


    "She is Sebastian''s mom and Noah''s aunt, Rebecca Stewart."


    "Wow, isn''t too stylish and young to be a mom?" Ellie was having a very hard time processing her brain with the piece of information she had just received. Rebecca Stewart looked more like a sister than mother.


    Dressed in a pair of skinny jeans and fancy top and with her hair tied up into a neat ponytail, Rebecca Stewart didn''t look more than thirty.


    Melissa rolled her eyes and let out a mocking sound. "Don''t get deceived El, she has thirty layers of makeup on. You will be horrified if you see her without one. Her dark circles are so deep that a c.o.c.kroach can swim in it and-"


    Grabbing Melissa''s hand, Ellie pursed her lips and gestured her to stop. How could they bitch about Noah''s aunt right in front of Noah?


    "What?" Melissa asked before following Ellie''s gaze. When Melissa understood what Ellie meant, Melissa chuckled. "Oh no El, Noah doesn''t mind. Right honey?"


    Noah vigorously nodded his head and sighed. "I know I shouldn''t be saying that but damn, she is so bitchy and dominating. I actually pity my cousins and consider myself lucky. If I had to grow up with someone like her, I would''ve been dead by now."


    "Cousin''s? You mean Sebastian?" Ellie asked.


    "Sebastian and his sister Ava." Pausing for a while, Noah helplessly shook his head and added, "Both of them had a really tough childhood."


    "Alright, let''s talk over lunch." Melissa said.


    ...


    Inside Sebastian''s office.


    "Why did you reject my call?" Rebecca asked.


    Taking out a stack of doc.u.ments from his bag, Sebastian started scanning through them and blandly answered, "I was busy in the meeting."


    "Hmm, I have passed on your number to Charlotte Adams. She will call you in the evening and I want you to talk to her properly. She is the niece of Mr Nelson and I don''t think so I need to remind you who Mr Nelson is." Rebecca explained.


    Sebastian nodded his head and asked, "Anything else?"


    "Your father and I are leaving the country tomorrow for an annual seminar which might last for a month or two. Remember to stick to your schedule and also make sure to take good care of Ms Adams. She is new in the country so I want you to show her around when you are free." Rebecca added.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 5 - I’ll pass

    When Sebastian did not say anything, Rebecca frowned and slammed the table. "I am talking to you Sebastian Stewart."


    Still engrossed reading his doc.u.ments, Sebastian nodded his head and let out an affirmative sound which pissed Rebecca even more.


    "What kind of behaviour is this?" Rebecca shouted. She hated how her obedient son was becoming more and more thick skinned. There was a time when Sebastian would readily do everything that his mom said but as times passed by, he slowly started isolating himself and stopped talking to anyone. Things between them became even more distinct when Sebastian moved out of the main mansion and started living on his own.


    "Take Mr Nelson''s niece out and show her around when I am free, mom I did hear what you said and I''ll do it when I am free. Why don''t you just leave with dad and stop worrying about what will happen here? I''ll take care of it okay?" Sebastian calmly explained. Glancing at his watch, he frowned when he realised that he had already missed his lunch time.


    Massaging his forehead, Sebastian sighed. He hated when people disturbed his fixed schedule, no matter who it was.


    "When you have time? Do you think I don''t remember what you did with my friend''s daughter last time? You stood her up and when asked for a reason, you said you did not have any free time in your hand." This wasn''t the first time Rebecca had tried to set Sebastian up with someone. It had happened several times in the past and each time, Sebastian would either not meet them or just showed his face for five minutes and leave. When asked for a reason, he would blandly say that he could manage to squeeze out only five minutes from his busy schedule.


    When Sebastian did not say anything, Rebecca pursed her lips. She then rested her right elbow on the desk, closed her eyes and started massaging her head. "Yes, it''s all my fault. It''s my fault that I love you and Ava so much. I keep doing things that are good for you both but no one even cares to appreciate me or my efforts. Do you both think that I am being too nosy and intervening in your lives way too much than I should?" Without waiting for Sebastian''s reply, Rebecca added, "I think I should stop bugging you people. You both are a.d.u.l.ts and I don''t think so you both need your mother in your life anymore."


    Running his hands through his face, Sebastian sighed. Walking towards his mother, he squatted down right in front of her and held her hand. "Mom you know it''s nothing like that. Ava and I never said that you are nosy or we don''t want you. It''s just you know I don''t like all this. Dating, going on blind dates is not my thing. I prefer staying here and doing something valuable than sitting with a random person and hearing her rant."


    "But Charlotte is not like that, I have met her in person. You will surely like her son." Placing her hand on his cheek, Rebecca added, "Promise mom that you will meet her when I am away."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Sebastian reluctantly nodded his head.


    Cupping his face, Rebecca kissed Sebastian''s forehead before caressing his face. "That''s like mommy''s good boy."


    Glancing at the watch, Rebecca gasped, "Ahh I have to go somewhere with your dad so I''ll take my leave."


    Getting up, Rebecca grabbed her bag and reminded Sebastian about his promise once again before leaving.


    After his mother left, Sebastian sat down on his seat and sighed. Massaging his forehead, he furrowed his brows when his migraine started kicking in again.


    Taking out his migraine medicines from the drawer, Sebastian quickly gulped it down. He had been suffering from an acute migraine for a few years now and it would act up almost every time or when he over stressed himself.


    Just then Patricia entered Sebastian''s office to inform him about the lunch. "Boss your lunch is ready."


    Glancing at the watch, Sebastian picked you his briefcase and left the room.


    Patricia frowned and quickly rushed after him.


    ¡­..


    Outside.


    "Boss your lunch is ready and-"


    Cutting Patricia off, Sebastian said, "I''ll pass the lunch."


    "But you also skipped your breakfast today." Patricia couldn''t help but nag Sebastian for skipping his meals. She had been working in the company for more than ten years now and had been working with Sebastian from the day he took over his father''s position.


    "I am already running late by ten minutes Patricia and I have a meeting with a very important client." Sebastian explained before stepping into the elevator.


    Before Patricia could say anything, Sebastian left.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 6 - N.a.k.e.d pictures

    Lorito Dine In.


    "Rebecca is such a bitch. You don''t know how cunning and vicious that woman is." Stabbing the innocent steak with her fork, Melissa gritted her teeth. "God I hate that woman."


    Patting her friends back, Ellie chuckled. "You gotta chill girl."


    "Chill? That woman got no chills." Melissa hated Rebecca for infinite reasons. Apart from the fact that Rebecca looked down on her, Melissa hated how scheming and manipulative she was.


    Shoving a piece of steak inside his mouth, Noah vigorously nodded his head. "Yeah she is sarcastic like Chandler-"


    "Hey-" Ellie and Melissa yelled at the same time.


    Dropping the fork on the plate, Noah gulped in nervousness. "Bing-"


    Taking her fork close to Noah''s neck, Melissa gritted her teeth. "Don''t you dare Noah Stewart."


    Glaring at Noah, Ellie snapped, "How can you just compare Channy baby with anyone you feel like? This is insane."


    Raising his hands in the air, Noah tried to defend himself. "Woah ladies at least wait until I finish my sentence. I was saying that aunt Rebecca is sarcastic just like Chandler Bing but in a bad way. Chandler is funny right? But aunt Rebecca is cruel."


    Retrieving her hand back, Melissa nodded her head and satisfaction. "A tiny word against Channy baby and you were so dead Noh Stewart."


    Wiping his forehead with a napkin, Noah murmured, "Crazy."


    "So Mr Stewart never accompanies you for lunch?" Ellie asked.


    Melissa vigorously shook her head and chuckled. "The day Sebastian will join us for anything willingly, I''ll offer my soul to the devil God."


    "He sounds like an introvert and-"


    Cutting Ellie off, Noah explained, "Oh no, an introvert is actually better than Sebastian. You see, an introvert doesn''t talk much but at least hangs out with people. Sebastian is even more dangerous."


    "What do you mean?" Ellie asked.


    "Well, you''ll understand what I mean after you start working with him."


    Ellie chuckled and helplessly shook her head. "What are you talking about? I don''t even know whether I''ll get this job or not." After being late, falling down as soon as she entered the Sebastian''s office, talking more than necessary and after calling her maybe-boss a gay, Ellie honestly had no hope. Why would a perfectionist like Sebastian Stewart hire someone as clumsy as her?


    Placing his fork down, Noah flashed a gorgeous smile and rubbed his hands together. "Okay, what will you give me if I help you get this job?"


    "Anything you want." Ellie needed this job and she was willing to give up everything that she had.


    Noah thought for a while and grinned from ear to ear when he thought of something. "Hehe, I want n.a.k.e.d pics of Mel when she was a kid."


    Ellie chuckled and asked, "Seriously what?"


    After hearing Noah''s stupid demand, Melissa frowned. "You gotta be kidding me Noah. You see me n.a.k.e.d everyday, why do you want a n.a.k.e.d picture of me?"


    Noah shrugged his shoulders and explained, "Well, I don''t know how you looked n.a.k.e.d when you were small so-"


    Without waiting for Noah to complete his sentence and completely ignoring Melissa''s signals, Ellie gave Noah a thumbs up to seal the deal. "Done, I will give you all the n.a.k.e.d pictures of Mel if I get this job."


    "El, how can you do that? How can you sell my n.a.k.e.d pictures off for a silly job?" Melissa couldn''t believe that her best friend was willing to trade her n.a.k.e.d photographs. But she was more pissed at Noah for being such an ass.


    "Relax Mel, I am trading them with your boyfriend so it''s not a big deal right? It isn''t like I am trading if with some kind of a cyber-serial killer or a psychopath." Ellie was willing to trade them willingly because it was Noah and she was pretty sure that she would''ve never agreed if it wasn''t him. Okay, maybe she would because those were just n.a.k.e.d pictures right? And it isn''t like she is selling Melissa away.


    Rubbing his hands together, Noah said, "Perfect, the job is a hundred percent yours. Just keep your thank you speech and the photographs ready."


    ¡­..


    Stewart Corporation.


    "Hey Patricia, watcha doing?" Noah asked.


    Giving him a weird look, Patricia asked, "Seriously kid, what do you want from this old aunt?"


    Placing his hand on his chest, Noah gasped, "Did I tell you how beautiful and young you are looking today? Oh my, only if I did not have a rule about not dating older women."


    Patricia raised her eyebrows and took off her glasses. Placing her hand on her waist when she glanced at her watch, Noah grinned, "I want to go through all the resumes that we have accepted for Sebastian''s assistant''s post."


    "And why do you want it?"


    Patting his shoulder, Noah proudly said, "Because I am a very responsible brother and I want to find an assistant for Sebastian as soon as possible. You know how badly he needs one right? How can he arrange his schedule, keep a note of them and also attend the meetings? Ahh how can I let him suffer like that?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 7 - Start shredding

    When Patricia gave him an uninterested look, Noah stretched his hands towards her and grinned.


    Taking out the bunch of resumes, Patricia warned Noah, "I don''t know what you are planning young man but if anything happens, you are facing his wrath."


    "You are such a sweetheart Patricia. I swear, in future if you need my help, I''ll do anything for you. You are the most sweetest, cutest, most adorable and-"


    Cutting him off, Patricia rolled her head and gestured him to leave. "Get out of my sight before I take them back."


    "A quick question, we don''t save resumes in the system right? Or the phone numbers of the candidates?" Noah asked.


    Patricia shook her head and answered, "No we don''t. We save the details in our software only after she/he signs the contract and receives an appointment letter."


    Noah flashed a gorgeous smile and winked at her. "GOTCHA."


    Seeing Noah''s mischievous smile, Patricia frowned. "Wait, what are you planning to do?"


    Ignoring her question, Noah quickly rushed towards the elevator.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s office.


    Noah was about to enter Sebastian''s office when the latter stepped out holding two stacks of doc.u.ments in different hands.


    "Woah dude, where are you going?" Noah asked.


    Walking towards the elevator, Sebastian answered, "Copy room."


    Following him behind, Noah asked, "Why?"


    "I need to shred a few of them and get a copy of others." Sebastian always copied confidential doc.u.ments on his own while the shedding was done by someone else under his supervision.


    "Here, let me help you hold them. Give me the ones which are supposed to go into the shredder." Taking a stack from Sebastian''s hand, Noah secretly shoved the resumes that he was holding in between the doc.u.ments and quietly stepped into the elevator along with Sebastian.


    ¡­.


    Copy room.


    The copy guy, Kenny quickly got up when the two boss'' entered the room.


    "Good evening boss."


    Pointing his chin towards the stack which Noah was holding, Sebastian instructed, "Shred these and you know the drill."


    Kenny vigorously nodded his head and took the doc.u.ments from Noah''s hand.


    The drill that Sebastian was talking about was to check the doc.u.ments thoroughly before shredding them. All the doc.u.ments that needed to be shredded had a red cross mark on them and if Kenny couldn''t find the red cross mark, he had to keep them aside and show them to Sebastian after he was done.


    "You take care of the copy thing and I''ll make sure the shredding is properly done." When Sebastian nodded his head and left, Noah gave Kenny a smile and hooked his arms around his neck. "Let''s do some shredding shredder guy."


    "You seem to be in a very nice mood boss, did Mel give you some kind of a special treat?" Kenny asked before turning on the paper shredding machine.


    "Have you ever seen me in a bad mood?" Noah asked.


    Kenny vigorously shook his head and smiled, "No boss, you are always jolly and that is what all the employees love about you."


    Placing his hand on Kenny''s ahoulder, Noah smiled, "You are saying this because you haven''t seen me when I am mad and do you know when I get mad?"


    When Kenny shook his head, Noah added,"I usually get mad when people don''t listen to me."


    Kenny winced when Noah tightened his grip around his shoudler.


    "Why don''t you start shredding Kenny? I am waiting for you to shred all these doc.u.ments." Inching closer, Noah whispered, "Irrespective of whether they have the red cross mark or not."


    When Kenny widened his eyes in shock, Noah tightening his grip once again, making him wince in pain. "Start shredding."


    Gulping in nervousness, Kenny quickly started shredding the papers without looking for the red cross marks.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 8 - Noah’s weak heart

    Satisfied with Kenny''s obedient behaviour, Noah smiled and patted his shoulder. "Good job shredder boy, I''ll surely reward you later."


    Giving him a weak smile, Kenny increased his pace but as soon as he started shredding the resumes, Sebastian approached them.


    Noah widened his eyes in shock when he saw him coming towards them.


    "Shred damnit, faster." Noah murmured. What would happen if Sebastian found out what was going inside in the shredding machine? Noah shivered at the thought of being caught before he completed his mission.


    "Shred faster." Noah murmured before giving Sebastian a smile. "Oh so you finished copying?"


    When Sebastian nodded his head, Noah added, "Oh what a coincidence, even we are almost done shredding."


    With his hands palms and back turning sweaty, Kenny was about to shred the last resume when Sebastian snatched it from his hand.


    Kenny''s soul almost left his body while Noah cursed his bad fate under his breath.


    Going through the doc.u.ment, Sebastian frowned. "This is a resume? Why are you shredding resumes?"


    "Resumes?" Noah shouted before taking the paper from Sebastian''s hand. He then faked a gasped and shouted, "Oh my God, isn''t this Ellie Miller''s resume? That means Kenny has been shredding the resumes of the interviewees that we interviewed today."


    Without waiting for anyone''s reply, Noah turned towards Kenny and frowned, "How can you be so careless? What happened to checking the red cross before putting them inside the shredder?"


    When Kenny gave Noah an astonished look, Noah asked, "What? You don''t have an say now? Do you know what you just did? Now all we have is this unpunctual, big mouth and clumsy woman''s resume. Now we have no choice but to hire her. You, Kenny shredder guy have left us with no choice."


    Turning towards Noah, Sebastian asked, "How did these end up inside my shredding stack?"


    Noah frowned and widened his eyes in shock, "Wait what? Are you asking me? What? How me? I mean why me?"


    Without waiting for Sebastian''s reply, Noah added, "This stack is yours, the papers are yours. In fact, you were the one who gave Kenny instructions to shred them and now when things got messed up, you are blaming me?"


    Grasping his chest, Noah closed his eyes. "You know how weak my heart is but yet you always hurt me Sebastian. I love you so much but yet you-"


    Without waiting for Noah to finish his dramatic speech, Sebastian rushed out of the copy room.


    Patting Kenny''s shoulder, Noah grinned, "You did a great job pal, extra bonus for you this month."


    Kenny was about to say anything but Noah gave him a thumbs up and rushed out of the room.


    ¡­...


    Reception.


    "Where are the resumes?" Sebastian asked.


    Patricia frowned and was about to say something when Noah, who was standing right behind Sebastian joined his hands together and begged her to save him.


    Clearing her throat, Patricia scratched her forehead and said, "I remember placing them on your desk after you left for your afternoon meeting."


    Noah breathed a sigh of relief and was showering flying kisses towards Patricia when Sebastian turned back.


    With his palm pressed against his lips, Noah froze. Not wanting to get caught, Noah pretended to wipe his mouth and helplessly shook his head. "I think I forgot to wipe my mouth after eating."


    After taking a deep breath, Sebastian turned towards Patricia and asked, "Do we have the data?"


    When Patricia shook her head, Sebastian frowned turned towards Noah and asked, "You are doing this on purpose aren''t you?"


    Patting his chest, Noah frowned and murmured, "Weak heart."


    After taking a deep breath, Sebastian murmured, "Unbelievable." before walking away.


    After Sebastian left, Patricia sighed and helplessly shook her head, "Will you ever let him stay at peace?"


    Spreading his arms, Noah grinned, "He is always at peace when he is with me."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 9 - Through thick and thin

    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s office.


    Faking a sigh, Noah helplessly shook his head. "Oh my, now what do we do? With all the resumes gone and only this one left," Pushing Ellie''s resume towards Sebastian, Noah added, "we really don''t have any other choice."


    "Do you think I don''t know what you are trying to do? Do you think I am dumb?" Sebastian asked.


    Noah widened his eyes in shock and asked, "When did I say that you dumb? Well, it''s evidently your fault but yet you are shoving it on me." Pausing for a while, Sebastian added, "Look I know it''s very rare for you to make mistakes. In fact, I don''t even remember when was the last time you made such a silly mistake but it''s alright, we all are humans and we are born to make mistakes okay? It''s normal but if it''s such a big deal for you then I am willing to take the blame."


    Placing his hand on his chest, Noah sighed, "Yes it was me who placed the resumes in the stack, yes it was me who did everything. In fact, I did all of this to force you to hire Ellie. It''s all my fault and I am sorry. Okay, so do you feel better now?"


    Resisting the strong urge that was building within him to strangle Noah to death, Sebastian closed his eyes and took a deep breath.


    "So what do you think? I think you should just hire Ellie Miller. Not just me but I think even the shredding machine wants you to hire her." Shoving the resume further towards Sebastian, Noah pouted his lips.


    Going through the resume once again, Sebastian tossed it aside and called Patricia.


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s apartment.


    "Yes mom, I am perfectly alright. I met Mel and Noah in the morning. I gave my interview and I am still waiting for their call."


    "Your dad and I are missing you a lot honey. In fact, your dad made all your favourites today for dinner." Ellie''s mother, Judith Miller said.


    Ellie sighed and groaned in frustration. "How mean mom, how can you both do this to me?"


    Judith chuckled and teased her daughter. "Weren''t you the one who wanted to move out? Now you don''t get to complain."


    "You two should be proud of me. I am all grown up and I am also willing to pay my own bills and not trouble you both. So can''t you please make things less difficult for me by not talking about good food?" Ellie requested.


    "Hey, it''s not like you don''t know how to cook. Why don''t you make something good and treat yourself?" Judith asked.


    "Who will take all the trouble and cook something great when I am the only one eating it? I would rather laze around and grab an instant noodle pack when I am hungry." Ellie was undoubtedly very lazy when she knew she could afford to laze around and not do anything. Since she currently had nothing to do, Ellie had decided to just sleep all day.


    Judith chuckled and asked, "Do you know what I did when I started living alone?"


    "What did you do?"


    "Well, even I always felt lazy and never cooked for myself so I found myself someone who would cook for me and also do the chores without complaining." Judith answered.


    Ellie smiled and asked, "You found dad didn''t you?"


    Judith smiled and nodded her head, "Oh yes honey I did. I found my Harry and I hope you''ll find yours too."


    "Oh God mom let''s not get into that topic again okay? I gotta settle things here so I''ll video call you and dad tonight. Have a great dinner and miss me. I love you."


    "I love you too darling, take care and don''t forget that you moved out but we are still a family and your parents will always be with you through thick and thin."


    Ellie smiled and nodded her head. "I know mom, bye."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 10 - Bad day

    After hanging you the call, Ellie tossed her phone aside and took a deep breath.


    The one thing that Ellie always thanked God was for blessing her with such supportive and loving parents.


    Harry and Judith never forced any of their decisions on Ellie. Yes, they always guided her and showed her the right path but they always let Ellie take the final call.


    When Ellie decided to move out, Judith and Harry were quite supportive even though they didn''t want their little daughter to move out. But since she wanted to try something different, they supported her anyway.


    Growing up with such loving and supportive parents was what made Ellie broad minded and more blissful. The positive family environment she grew up in was a reflection of her positive and fun loving character.


    She never complained about anything, in fact, her parents had taught her to embrace everything that she has without complaining.


    Her father, Harry Miller was a professor while her mother Judith Miller worked in an old age home. They didn''t have a lavish or extravagant life but Ellie would have never wished for something better than what she had. They had a very sweet little peaceful family. They would go on frequent family outings, have at least two meals together, talk about how their day was, share their thoughts, they used to do the chores together and always supported each other in every possible way.


    Scratching her head, Ellie sighed when she saw her messy living room.


    Looking around, Ellie murmured, "Maybe tomorrow." before walking towards her bedroom to take a long afternoon nap.


    ...


    Stewart mansion.


    Running her fingers through her hair, Ava took a deep breath before stepping out of her room.


    When the helper saw Ava, she rushed towards her. "Madam let me help me set your hair."


    Stopping her, Ava politely rejected her, "There is no need for that Mura, you can go."


    Mura pursed her lips and hesitantly said, "But madam said you have to tie your hair into a bun."


    "Can''t I even style my hair like I want to? Does everything has to be the way my mother or others want?" Ava asked.


    When Mura lowered her head, Ava sighed and walked away.


    Climbing down the stairs when Ava saw an unfamiliar man sitting on the couch, she pursed her lips.


    This wasn''t the first time her mother had arranged for someone to see her. This also wasn''t the first time her mother had given her dozens of instructions and asked her to follow them so that she could impress the men which her mother thought were perfect for her.


    When the man saw Ava, he quickly got up and approached her.


    Extending his hand for a shake, the man smiled. "It''s a pleasure meeting you Ms Stewart."


    Giving him a weak smile when Ava completely ignored his hand which was waiting for hers, the man awkwardly retrieved it back.


    "My name is Nathane, I am sure that aunt Rebecca told you about me."


    "Maybe she did. My mom mentions a lot of names daily so I am not very sure whether she mentioned yours or not. Though your name sounds familiar but I don''t really remember." Ava''s words were clear enough for anyone to understand that she wasn''t interested in Nathane. Infact, she wasn''t interested in any of the men that her mother introduced to her. They were all too good to be true and felt very unrealistic.


    Ava tried to sound as rude as she could to get rid of them but some men like Nathane were either too dumb to feel her disinterest or too shameless to ignore it and continue trying to start a conversation with her.


    "Well, it''s alright. I am sure that you won''t forget who I am after today." When Nathan flashed a sly smile, Ava had to try very hard to suppress her inner desire to roll her eyes at him and smack his head against the wall.


    When Ava did not say anything, Nathane added, "It seems like Ms Stewart woke up on the wrong side of the bed today."


    Giving him a sinister smile, Ava said, "I don''t know about the wrong side but I surely woke up to have a really bad day."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 11 - Footsteps

    Nathane chuckled and tucked his hands into his pocket. " A beautiful face and a very sharp tongue, you are nothing like aunt Rebecca had described you as but I still seem to get attracted to you."


    When Ava rolled her eyes at him, Nathane helplessly shook his head. With his personality and temper, he should''ve walked out by now but something about Ava made him stay. He didn''t know whether it was her mesmerising brown eye, her beautiful face, her refreshing aura or her s.e.xy and alluring body.


    Ava was about to crush him back with her words when her parents entered the mansion.


    Pursing her lip, when she lowered her head, Nathane chuckled. Inching closer, he whispered, "Now you look exactly how your mother had described you."


    Clenching her hand into a fist, Ava cursed him under her breath. Only if she could kick him out of her sight and curse him aloud.


    "Ahhh Nathane, what a pleasant surprise." Giving Nathane a hug, Rebecca patted his back. "When did you come?"


    "A long time back." Nathane answered before returning the hug.


    Pulling away, Rebecca smiled and asked, "I hope Ava attended you well."


    Nathane smirked and nodded his head. "Oh yes she did. In fact, nobody had ever greeted me so well."


    Rebecca pursed her lips when she saw the sarcastic look on Nathane''s face. Glaring at her daughter, Rebecca forced a smile and asked, "Honey, why don''t you take Nathane for a walk in the garden?"


    "The garden is wet and my clothes will get dirty." Ava rebuked.


    "You-" Rebecca stopped when her husband Arthur, wrapped his arms around her shoulder.


    Patting his wife''s shoulder, Arthur smiled and said, "It''s alright honey, seems like our little daughter woke up on the wrong side of her bed today."


    "I don''t know about the wrong side but Ms Stewart surely woke up to have a really bad day." Nathane added.


    When Ava glared at him, Nathane smiled and asked, "Wasn''t that what you said?" Without waiting for anyone''s reply, Nathane added, "It seems like Ms Stewart isn''t in her perfect mood today. I''ll take my leave and you can call me back when she wakes up on the right side of the bed or whenever she wakes up to have a good day."


    After Nathane left, Rebecca grabbed Ava''s arm and gritted her teeth. "What kind of attitude is that? Is this the way you treat your guests?"


    Removing her hand from her arm, Ava snapped, "He wasn''t my guest, you are the one who called him so he is your guest mom."


    "You-"


    "Ava, what kind of behaviour is this? Is this how you talk to your mother?" Pausing for a while, Arthur added, "Come on, apologise to her."


    "What? It isn''t my fault so why should I apologise? She is the one who always tries to control my life and-"


    "Well, I am your mother so I have all the right to do that." Rebecca shouted.


    "But-"


    Cutting Ava off, Arthur asked, "Have you ever seen Sebastian complaining about anything? He is a couple of years older than you but yet he always listens to your mother. Learn something from your big brother and stop being so arrogant and glib."


    Clenching her hand into a fist, Ava gritted her teeth. She hated how her parents always tried to shut her up by using Sebastian as an example.


    Sebastian had always been a perfect child and because she was younger to him, Ava was always expected to follow his footsteps. Sebastian was one of the biggest reason why she couldn''t live her life like she wanted to. But irrespective of everything, Ava hated herself the most. She hated herself for not having the guts to fight or retort against her parents who had always controlled her life.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 12 - A normal beating heart

    Without saying anything, Ava asked Mura to get her purse and car keys.


    "I am not yet done with you Ava Stewart so you are not allowed leave." Rebecca shouted.


    Letting out a mocking chuckle, Ava suggested, "Why don''t you just get a robot for yourself? You just have to press a button and he will do everything that you want him to. That''s more convenient right? At least you don''t have to waste your energy shouting and taming your human kids."


    Taking the keys and purse from Mura''s hand, Ava barged out of the mansion, leaving her mother, who was fuming in anger behind.


    ¡­.


    Stewart Corporation.


    "Hey man when are you leaving?" Noah asked.


    Glancing at his watch, Sebastian asked, "What are you still doing here? Aren''t you supposed to take Melissa out for shopping today?"


    Noah chuckled and asked, "What? Have you started keeping a track of my schedule as well?"


    "Just go before she breaks your head for being late."


    Noah sighed and nodded his head. "Yeah, I was about to leave. I just decided to check on you before I leave."


    When Sebastian nodded his head, Noah sighed and left.


    Thirty minutes later, Ava barged into Sebastian''s office fuming in anger


    When Sebastian saw his sister, he asked, "What do you want?"


    Letting out a mocking laugh, Ava shouted, "What do I want? I want peace, I want a life, I want to live my life peacefully, can I?"


    Flipping the doc.u.ment over, Sebastian said, "It''s your life Ava so you can live your life as you want."


    "Really? Really Sebastian? You really think you or I have the right to even breathe without our parents permission?" Ava asked.


    When Sebastian didn''t say anything, Ava slammed her hand on his desk and shouted, "I don''t know how you do this but I cannot continue living in this cage and whatever I am going through is all your fault. You are the one who decided to act like a coward and never fought back for your rights and because you are the most obedient and awesome first born child, I am always forced to follow your footsteps. And everytime when I gather every ounce of my guts and try to fight for my rights, I am immediately forced to shut up when they use you as an example."


    Pausing for a while, Ava continued, "You are the one who always tried to live up to their expectations and now I am expected to do the same. In fact, you are living an independent life now. You don''t live with them anymore so you can do whatever you want. You can at least breathe without them monitoring you but what about me Sebastian? I am still stuck with them. I cannot move out because I don''t have a mansion like you do and-"


    Tossing the doc.u.ments aside, Sebastian took out his cheque book and asked, "How much do you need to get a new place for yourself?"


    Ava''s head almost exploded when Sebastian took out his pen and started signing the cheque. "You gotta be kidding me Sebastian? Do you think I am here because I want money from you or because I want a new place?"


    Placing the pen down, Sebastian frowned and asked, "Why are you here then?"


    Slamming the desk and stomping her foot on the floor, Ava groaned in frustration. "Oh God, you are such an idiot."


    Placing her hand on the desk, Ava glared at him. "You know people are so right about you. You are indeed a heartless robotic man who has nothing in his life. You don''t have any emotions in your life and you are a selfish man with a heart made of stone. I pity you Sebastian, I really pity you."


    Kicking the desk using all her might, Ava barged out of the office, banging the door shut.


    A few minutes later, Sebastian placed his hand on his chest.


    No he wasn''t heartless like everyone claimed him to be. He also had a normal beating heart just like every living creature.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 13 - Sebastian’s struggle

    Growing up with parents who think they have the right to control their kids life is one of the most stressful and unfortunate things.


    Being the first born child of a successful businessman, Sebastian was always expected to be perfect in almost everything.


    Not only was he expected to excel academically but also in different kinds of sports and other activities.


    As he grew bigger, his parents'' expectations of him kept on rising which made him feel very pressured and tried very hard to live up to their expectations.


    From which school and college he would join to which subjects he would opt for, Sebastian never had a say over anything. Even if he tried to voice out his opinion, his parents would shut him up by saying that they knew the best and would always choose the best for him.


    Sebastian''s father, Arthur Stewart would set up an annual routine for him which Sebastian was compelled to follow without missing a single assigned task.


    From a very young age, Sebastian was told that he would have to take over his father''s business and establish a name for himself.


    At the age of ten, when Noah used to run around playing and having fun, Sebastian was taught how to be a responsible man and was forced to attend special classes to increase his IQ.


    Amidst all the expectations and pressure, Sebastian''s childhood which was supposed to be the most blissful and enjoyable phase of his life, was completely overshadowed and he was burdened with responsibilities to fulfil and to live up to his parents expectations.


    Sebastian decided to endure everything thinking that his parents would finally be satisfied after he achieved everything that they wanted but things weren''t that easy.


    As Sebastian grew older, his parents'' expectations of him kept on increasing and it never stopped. Everytime he achieved something, his parents raised their expectations to something higher. It was like a never ending ladder.


    Growing up in such a systematic and restricted environment, Sebastian''s personality also took an one eighty degree turn. He started living his life like his father had taught him to.


    As years passed by, Sebastian kept on drowning into the pool of responsibilities, the pressure of making his parents happy and living up to their expectations. His life started revolving around the same circle.


    There was a time when he was tired following the same routine over and over again so he decided to move out of the main mansion to a place of his own where he could live like he wanted to. But little did Sebastian know that he was habituated to living a punctual and systematic life so no matter how hard he tried, he could never live a carefree life like Noah and his other friends.


    After moving out, things became even worse. Sebastian fully immersed himself in his work and never stopped following his schedule. In fact, he tightened up his schedule and started working overtime everyday.


    As people said, Sebastian did live a robotic life. He had a schedule for each and everything. In fact, he had his whole life planned in a nutshell.


    Sebastian felt suffocated and restless when he didn''t know what was going to happen next. If something that wasn''t included in his plan happened, he would try his best to turn the situation and the result according to his plans.


    People said he had long lost the true meaning of life but little did they know that Sebastian never got to know what living a real life felt like.


    Removing his hand from his chest, Sebastian sighed. He was already used to living that way so there wasn''t anything he could or wanted to complain about.


    Sebastian had already prepared himself to continue living like he always had but little did he know that fate and destiny also plays an important part in one''s life. What is meant to happen will happen no matter how hard he tries to avoid it.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 14 - Lucky

    8:00 pm


    "Patricia? What are you doing in the office so late?" Sebastian asked when Patricia entered his office.


    "I was just preparing some notes and dealing with the scheduled meetings."


    Placing the doc.u.ment down, Sebastian said, "You should leave when the other employees do otherwise Danny will come looking for me again for keeping his wife busy."


    Patricia chuckled and asked, "Well, aren''t you in the office as well?"


    "I don''t have anyone who is waiting for me unlike you."


    Placing a paper holder on the doc.u.ment, Patricia smiled. "Then why don''t you get someone who will wait for you too? Maybe you''ll return home faster instead of working so late even on a Friday night."


    When Sebastian chuckled, Patricia sighed. "My son who is still in highschool actually has more ex-girlfriends than the number of women in your life, kid."


    "Ahh is it? Seems like Ryan is living his life well. How old is he?" Sebastian asked.


    "He is sixteen and-"


    "What is he planning to do?" Sebastian asked.


    "Apart from the fact that he is just sixteen, I think he has plenty of time to think about it." Patricia said.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Sebastian asked, "Don''t you have any expectations of him?"


    "Expectations from whom? Ryan?" When Sebastian nodded his head, Patricia added, "Well, I don''t know about expectations but I do hope that he succeeds in whatever he wants to be or whatever he wants to do."


    When Sebastian did not say anything, Patricia said, "I think you should go home now, it''s pretty late."


    When Sebastian nodded his head, Patricia smiled and left.


    "Patricia." When Patricia turned around, Sebastian smiled and added, "Ryan is a very lucky kid."


    After giving him a weak smile, Patricia wished Sebastian good night and left.


    After placing his things inside his briefcase, Sebastian glanced at his watch and got ready to leave.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s place.


    Stepping out of the elevator which opened straight into his two storey penthouse, Sebastian quickly turned on the lights.


    Placing his briefcase on the couch, he took off his blazer and tie before unbuttoning his shirt and sleeves.


    Walking towards the kitchen, Sebastian opened the fridge and took an airtight container which had a FRIDAY written on it.


    Placing it inside the microwave, Sebastian left after setting the timer.


    Picking up his briefcase, he made his way towards his bedroom which was in the second floor along with the other two spare rooms and Sebastian''s study room.


    After taking a quick shower and changing into his usual home clothes, he grabbed another doc.u.ment from his bag before heading downstairs.


    ¡­.


    Downstairs.


    Eating his usual Friday meal, Sebastian was going through the fifth clause stated in the doc.u.ment when the elevator dinged.


    When Ava stepped out of the elevator, Sebastian glanced at the watch and asked, "What are you doing here so late?"


    "What late? It''s not even ten."


    Sitting down beside him when Ava started poking his arm, Sebastian asked, "What is it?"


    Wrapping her hands around his arms, Ava pouted her lips and asked, "Are you angry with me?"


    When Sebastian shook his head, Ava took a deep breath. "I am sorry, I shouldn''t have said all of that. I was really very upset and then you started showing off you money instead of consoling me so I freaked out. I shouldn''t have called you a robot."


    Placing the fork down, Sebastian asked, "So you come all the way here at this time to apologise?"


    Giving him a pretentious smile, Ava said, "You know something big bro, saying ''It''s okay sis'' or ''I am sorry too'' or ''I love you sis'' wouldn''t hurt."


    "Did you eat something?" Sebastian asked. When Ava nodded her head, he added, "Good, let me drop you home then."


    Ava groaned and vigorously shook her head. "I don''t wanna go there."


    When Sebastian did not say anything, Ava asked, "How do you do this Seb? How? Don''t you feel tired, angry or frustrated? Don''t you feel like running away?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 15 - Brotherly embrace

    Aside from the fact that both of them were always mentally pressured by their parents, Ava knew that it was more tough for Sebastian. There were times when she used to skip the scheduled routines, sneak out of the house and have fun with her best friend, June but Sebastian was different. He had always been punctual and someone who followed the rules since he was young. Even now when he was living all by himself, Ava couldn''t believe that he still followed a schedule.


    "Well, apart from the fact that I cannot go anywhere even if I want to, I also don''t want to waste my time thinking about doing things which are never going to happen." Sebastian had always been this way. He knew he couldn''t run away because he had responsibilities in his shoulder and there was no way he could leave things unattended.


    Rolling her eyes at him, Ava made her way towards the couch. "I am just tired of this boring life, I wish I could do something nice and exciting. I wish I could be free for at least a week."


    Thinking for quite some time, Sebastian got up and followed Ava.


    Sitting down beside her, Sebastian said, "Come here."


    "What? You wanna give me big brother hugs now? Where were these hugs when I needed them in the morning?" Ava asked.


    "You want it or not?" Sebastian asked.


    Ava vigorously nodded his head and curled up in his brotherly embrace.


    Caressing her head, Sebastian asked, "What if I give you something that you want?"


    "What do you mean?" Ava asked.


    "Well, mom and dad are going away for two months tomorrow or maybe more so after they leave, it''s just you and me." Sebastian explained.


    When Ava gave him an excited look, Sebastian continued, "I give you two whole months or may be more. Hmm let''s just say, until they come back, you have the liberty to do anything that you want. You can go wherever you want and do anything you feel like. You can party around without any restrictions, in short, no rules or responsibilities for you until they come back."


    When Ava excitedly squealed, Sebastian interrupted her, "But you are not allowed to get into trouble, do not break any laws, no doing drugs and stay away from creepy boys who only want to get into your pants."


    Hugging his neck, Ava screamed excitedly, "Ahhhh Seb, you are the best big brother in the whole world. I love you so much. Wait, you''ll finance everything right?"


    "You want me to write a cheque for you right now?" Sebastian asked.


    "Ahhhh you are awesome. I''ll go call June and tell her about it." Grabbing her phone, Ava quickly called her best friend.


    Seeing his sister all happy and excited, Sebastian smiled and patted her head before walking towards the dining table to finish his meal.


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s apartment.


    With her eyes half open, Ellie received Melissa''s call and groaned in frustration. "For God''s sake Mel, it''s 2am and normal people sleep at this hour."


    "Geez lazy ass, Noah and I have dinner at this time sometimes. Anyway, I called you to tell you a very exciting and good news."


    "Are you pregnant?" Ellie asked.


    Melissa chuckled and helplessly shook her head. "No dumbo, you aren''t gonna be an aunt this soon."


    "Then what kind of good news are you talking about?"


    "Did you check your mails?" Melissa asked.


    "Why the hell would I check my mails at 2am? Look Mel, maybe you are feeling all energetic and lively after your make out session but I am feeling dizzy and angry because you woke up when I was supposed to be sleeping."


    ¡­...

 Chapter 16 - Just the best

    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Melissa asked, "What if I say that you got the job? Will you still feel sleepy?"


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and quickly got up. "You gotta be kidding me Mel, seriously? You are but joking right? See it''s already past midnight and you aren''t supposed to play pranks after midnight."


    Melissa chuckled and asked, "Who said that? I never heard of such rules."


    "I swear Mel if this is a joke then I''ll show Noah one of your most vulgar and disgusting pictures." When Ellie threatened Melissa, the latter gasped and gritted her teeth. "You wouldn''t dare Ellie Miller because if you do that, I''ll show your ugliest picture to whoever you date in the future."


    "Alright alright jokes apart, you are not kidding right? I got the job for real?" Ellie asked. She couldn''t believe if it was real or Melissa was trying to get back at her for sacrificing her nudes to Noah.


    "Ah what do you take me as El? Am I like those horrible friends who play disgusting pranks on their friends?" Melissa asked.


    When Ellie chuckled, Melissa added, "God I should''ve left you alone to receive the bomb early in the morning when you checked your mails and when you receive a call from the office saying that you have to report by 9 am and-"


    "What? 9 am? But isn''t the office time like 10-10:30?" Ellie asked.


    "Yes babe but did you forget who you are working with? It''s the big boss and the great Sebastian Stewart. You better pull up your socks and try to be punctual." Melissa knew that Ellie would have a hard time working with Sebastian because not only did both of them have different personalities, she knew how much Sebastian hated unpunctual and clumsy people and Ellie could be considered as the Queen of unpunctuality and clumsiness. Forget about Ellie being unpunctual and clumsy, Melissa knew that it was super tough for anyone to work with Sebastian. She didn''t really want Ellie to take this job but since the digits were good and Ellie wanted to try something different, Melissa recommended her for the job anyway.


    "So I have to go to the office an hour early everyday? If yes, then for what?" Ellie asked.


    "I don''t know but maybe you''ll find out tomorrow and for God''s sake El, don''t be late tomorrow and-"


    Cutting her off, Ellie excitedly said, "Alright, I understood. If I don''t want to be late, I better sleep now."


    "Great, I''ll meet you tomorrow at the office."


    "Okay." After hanging up the call, Ellie excitedly bounced on the bed and squealed. Only heavens knew how happy and relieved she was feeling. Getting this job was actually a very big thing for her and she couldn''t wait for the clock to strike 9. This job was one of the reasons why she left home and decided to move to a completely foreign city.


    Glancing at the watch, Ellie widened her eyes in shock. "God El, sleep." But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t. The excitement and curiosity was too much to let her fall asleep but she had to otherwise she would be late for the first day of her new job.


    After rechecking the alarm, Ellie cuddled inside the blanket but she still couldn''t stop thinking about the new journey of her life that would begin starting tomorrow. Little did she know that the new journey would also change her life forever.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s place.


    "No."


    "Please."


    "No Ava, I am not allowing that."


    Ava pouted her lips and complained, "But you said you''ll let me do whatever I want."


    Sebastian frowned and snapped, "But I never said you can move out, did I? You know how unsafe it is and-"


    Cutting him off, Ava tucked onto his sleeves and vigorously shook her head, "Nothing will happen and I promise I''ll stay safe. I have always wanted to live with June and-"


    "The area where June lives is very unsafe and if you wanna live with June, I''ll arrange for a new place and you both can shift there."


    "But-"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian shook his head. "No Ava, no ifs and buts. If you wanna move over to a place that I will arrange for you both then it''s fine otherwise you have to stay here with me."


    Ava widened her eyes in shock and shouted, "No, I don''t wanna live with you." She wanted to live with her best friend to have fun and live her life the way she wants but living with Sebastian was more tough and suffocating than living with her parents. His strict schedule and extra clean house made her feel awkward and weird.


    "Then you have two options, either you live with me here or you live with June in the place that I''ll arrange for the two of you." Though Sebastian wanted her to do whatever Ava wanted, he still couldn''t take a chance or let Ava loosen up the security around her.


    Puffing her cheeks, Ava punched Sebastian''s arm. "Alright and I take my words back, you are not the bestest big brother."


    "Oh so what am I now?" Sebastian asked.


    "You are just the best."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 17 - I saw that coming

    Ellie''s apartment.


    8:00 am


    After patting her hair dry, Ellie tossed the towel aside and quickly rushed towards her wardrobe.


    Just then, she received a call from Stewart Corporation informing her that she had been selected for the job and had to report to the office at sharp 9:00 am.


    "Please don''t be late Ms Miller, our boss doesn''t like unpunctual people." Patricia reminded Ellie.


    "Ya right, I''ll be there before time." Ellie assured and there was no way she would mess things up this time.


    "Okay then, I''ll be waiting for your arrival."


    "Alright." After hanging up the call, Ellie quickly grabbed what she had planned on wearing for her first day at work and started getting ready. She was super excited and nervous at the same time.


    After getting ready, Ellie glanced at herself at the mirror and smiled in satisfaction. She was wearing a solid navy blue woven sheath dress which had a boat neck and three quarter sleeves, matched with a pair of black open toe heels. Her hair was parted in the middle and tied in a low ponytail.


    Clipping her favourite butterfly diamond earrings which her parents had gifted her when she had graduated, Ellie grabbed the necessary doc.u.ments and left.


    ...


    Sebastian''s place.


    "Please Sebastian five minutes." Covering her face with a pillow, Ava groaned. She had been doing this since the last ten minutes which was quite frustrating for the ever punctual Sebastian.


    "It''s already 8:30 Ava, who stays in the bed so late? Get up and have your breakfast." Sebastian nagged before picking up Ava''s clothes which were scattered all over the room. He hated messy people more than unpunctual ones and unfortunately his own sister had both the traits.


    "Sebastian I think you gotta chill." Ava shouted. This was the reason why she didn''t want to stay with him. He kept nagging and lecturing her about punctuality and being organised.


    "Not only that my cute little sister, Sebastian also needs to get laid." Noah commented before crashing on the bed and ruffling Ava''s hair.


    Ava chuckled and vigorously nodded her head. "That is so true, I think he needs a good release."


    Sebastian frowned and snapped, "Watch your words Ava."


    Mimicking his voice, Ava repeated, "Watch your words Ava."


    Turning towards Ava, Noah asked, "Don''t you think that he sounds like your mother sometimes?"


    "I know right? He sounds exactly like them. His only advantage and the only reason why a woman may fall for is his handsome face and his well maintained body." Apart from his cold, robotic and unnecessary strict attitude, the only thing that Ava thought would be advantageous for her brother to get a woman for himself was his handsome face. Who wouldn''t fall for a young, handsome and rich man right?


    Sebastian felt irked when he saw Noah rolling on the bed wearing his business suit. After seeing how his suit was getting crumbled and the thought about him attending office wearing the same one was making him go crazy. Not wanting to be trolled by then again, Sebastian initially decided to keep shut but when Noah rolled over again, he couldn''t stop himself. "Do you even realise that you are wearing a business suit? How can you roll on the bed like that?"


    Grinning from ear to ear, Sebastian snorted, "Well, I saw that coming already."


    "You just saw it coming? I was literally wondering why Sebastian didn''t mention it the very first time you rolled over." Ava added.


    "Ava, get up and eat your breakfast and Noah, get up, fix your clothes and leave for office."


    "Are you mad? It''s not even 9 yet. I have to go and fetch Melissa later from the supermarket in fifteen minutes. She is buying groceries and I just came to look for your guys." Noah explained.


    "Ahh Mel is here? Where?" Ava excitedly asked. She loved Melissa because she was the only person who helped her stay positive and happy despite being surrounded by boring and irritating people all the time.


    "She is planning to invite her best friend for dinner tonight and also you people. She is new here so it would be nice if she makes new friends." Noah said before giving Sebastian a look.


    Understanding what Noah was trying to say, Sebastian shook his head. "I am not free."


    Noah frowned and retorted, "Oh come on Seb, it''s not like you have something important to do and everyone will be there. Even Calvin said he will come."


    "Oh Calvin is coming? And what about his hot friend?" Ava asked.


    "Who? Owen?" Noah asked.


    "Uh Huh."


    When Noah nodded his head, Ava grinned and said, "I''ll bring June along then."


    Noah chuckled and helplessly shook his head. "I thought you already stopped matchmaking."


    "Well, you must know my dear brother that I will never stop matchmaking until and unless I feel that nothing is ever going to happen."


    Ignoring the two of them, Sebastian buttoned his suit and left the room.


    ¡­..


    Stewart Corporation.


    8:59am


    "Oh please tell me that I am on time." Ellie asked Patricia who was arranging a bunch of papers.


    Glancing at the watch, Patricia smiled. "Well, you are early by a minute Ms Miller."


    Placing her hand on her chest, Ellie breathed a sigh of relief. "Oh thank God, you know for a second I thought I am late again but wooooo."


    After witnessing how Noah had used all kinds of tricks and mischievous plans to help Ellie get the job, Patricia had been curious to know more about her. "Go to the President''s office first and then come down so that we can deal with the contract and other things."


    Ellie nodded her head and left after thanking Patricia.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 18 - Extra zero

    Sebastian''s office.


    Taking a sip of his extra strong black coffee, Sebastian breathed a sigh of relief. The initial headache that he was having was now slowly dissipating. Apart from having everything in the right place and according to his schedule, Sebastian''s morning coffee had to be perfect.


    He was about to open his laptop when someone knocked at the door.


    "Come in."


    After taking a deep breath, Ellie patted her chest for a couple of times and entered the office.


    "Good morning boss." After greeting him, Ellie carefully made her way towards the desk, making sure not to fall down and embarrass herself again.


    Looking at the formally and neatly dressed Ellie, Sebastian couldn''t help but stare at her for a couple of seconds. She looked so different from the last time he had seen her. From her neatly ironed clothes to her perfect posture, there was nothing clumsy and inappropriate about her which made Sebastian wonder if she was the same woman whom he had interviewed yesterday.


    "I hope I am not late today." Ellie asked.


    When Sebastian shook his head, Ellie breathed a sigh of relief. "Oh thank God, you know for a second I thought that I wouldn''t be able to make it on time. I even forced the cab driver to break through a red signal and then...¡­"


    As Ellie kept on blabbering, Sebastian scrunched his brows. Though she wasn''t clumsy and unpunctual anymore, she still had a very big mouth.


    "And then-"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian added, "Alright Ms Miller, let''s get back to business."


    When Ellie straightened her back and slowly nodded her head, Sebastian added, "Since you have been appointed as my assistant, I would like to lay down some pointers and rules."


    Taking out a paper from his briefcase, Sebastian continued, "This is my agenda for the whole week. I work on Saturday''s too so even you are expected to show up. Don''t worry, you will be paid extra for working on Saturday''s along with me so the only official holiday that you will get is on Sundays. But sometimes, you will have to work on Sundays too."


    Flipping through the papers, Ellie widened her eyes in shock. The whole week''s agenda was so detailed and well formed which made Ellie wonder what she was hired for. Weren''t assistants responsible for scheduling everything?


    "Hmm, you already have everything perfectly planned so what do I have to do?"


    Tapping his fingers on the desk, Sebastian added, "You will have to adjust the meetings and other official works in this schedule without disturbing or shifting the other existing things that are mentioned in the agenda. In order words, you have to create a new agenda using the already existing agenda."


    When Ellie frowned, Sebastian asked, "What happened? Is there a problem?" When Ellie vigorously shook her head, he added, "Alright then, you can go down and complete the other procedures. Also do not forget to take the list of meetings that we have to attend today from Patricia and I expect to see my schedule early in the morning, as soon as I enter my office. Is that clear?"


    "Yes boss."


    ...


    Downstairs.


    When Patricia saw Ellie frown while reading Sebastian''s pre-existing schedule, she chuckled. "Well, you can memorise them as it never changes."


    "But why? Why does he have everything planned?" Ellie asked. It was strange as well as weird and amusing. Ellie had always been free-spirited and someone who didn''t care about things turning out to be perfect so it definitely irked her when she saw Sebastian''s super tight so-called permanent schedule.


    "Boss has always been like that but don''t worry, you will also get used to just like everyone else." Fishing a brown envelope out of the drawer, Patricua took out a contract and said before passing it to Ellie, "This is the employment contract, you can sit here and go through it until someone from the HR team arrives. The terms are quite flexible but this has a few additional points and-"


    "Wooooaaaahhhhhh this-"


    "What is it?" Seeing Ellie''s shocked expression, Patricia raised her eyebrows wondering what she had read.


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, Ellie showed Patricia a point of the contract. "I think this extra zero is a mistake."


    When Patricia chuckled, Ellie breathed a sigh of relief. "Ahh thank God, I was about to have a heart attack because this figure is almost five times of what Mel had told me my average salary would be."


    Pushing the contract back, Patricia added, "No Ms Miller this isn''t a mistake, the digit is cent percent correct. In fact, this digit actually doesn''t include your monthly bonus and the extra shifts that you''ll have to do."


    When Ellie widened her eyes in shock and gasped, Patricia smiled and helplessly shook her head. "Well, I''ll assume that you are very happy and we don''t have to do any kind of negotiation."


    "Negotiation? There is negotiation as well? You gotta be kidding me? People negotiate on this as well?" Ellie couldn''t believe whether she should be happy or shocked. The numbers that Stewart Corporation was offering was almost fifteen times higher than what she was getting from the company she was working back in Seattle.


    "They do Ms Miller." The amus.e.m.e.nt in Ellie''s face was actually very amusing for Patricia. Out of all the assistance that Sebastian had hired and fired, Ellie was the only one who was okay and also shocked after seeing the numbers.


    After taking a few deep breaths, Ellie sat down and started going through the contract.


    "Hey Patricia, what is this three days leave about?"


    "Well Ms Miller-"


    Cutting her off, Ellie said, "Hmm, why don''t you call me Ellie, Ms Miller sounds way too formal."


    "Okay, Ellie that three days leave is exclusively for new employees especially for those who are from another city like you. You can take the leave anytime you want within the first three months from your joining date." Patricia explained.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 19 - Bestest and proudest achievement

    "So that means I can take three days leave whenever I want to?" When Patricia nodded her head, Ellie thought for awhile and asked, "What if I want to take a leave starting tomorrow?"


    "Well, then you get a leave for three days. You have to remember that it''s only valid for the first three months so use it when you want to take a break or you have something important to do."


    Ellie nodded her head and continued reading the contract until someone from the HR department arrived and took her away to complete the remaining procedures.


    After signing the contract and taking her appointment letter from the HR department, Ellie was called by Patricia again.


    Giving her a list, Patricia said, "This is the official meetings and appointments that the boss has to attend. Your office is in the same floor as-"


    "El, you are here." Melissa shouted before rushing towards her best friend.


    Giving her a hug, Melissa asked, "Did you sign the contract? Did they give you your appointment letter? And did they-"


    Cutting her off, Ellie placed her hand on Melissa''s shoulder. "Calm down Mel, what are you so worried about? Everything is already done and Patricia was telling me something about my office when-"


    "Oh don''t worry about that because we share the same office. It''s on the same floor as Noah and Sebastian''s office. Let''s go, I''ll show you around." Without waiting for Ellie''s reply, Melissa dragged her away.


    ...


    Sebastian''s office.


    Rolling his eyes at his cousin, Noah frowned deeper. "Oh come on Seb, don''t be such a baby. It''s just a get together and no one whom you haven''t met before will be attending it. The only new one is Ellie and you have met her already. By the way, where is your new assistant?"


    Looking around when Noah didn''t see Ellie, he frowned. "Did you-"


    "I sent her down to the HR team."


    "Good, for a second I thought that you booed her away. Anyway, now that you have a beautiful and hot assistant, I hope your hormones will charge up a bit and start giving you a boner every now and then." When Sebastian gave Noah a disgusted look, Noah shrugged his shoulders. "What? Don''t you know that a man has to ejaculate at least thirteen times a month to prevent prostate cancer and of course blue balls."


    "Can you not talk about s.e.x all the time?" Sebastian was sick and tired of Noah who always kept on forcing him to sleep around with different kinds of women.


    "You know how blissful and lively my s.e.x life is right?" Touching the wooden desk, Noah murmured, "Touch wood."


    "Seriously? What are you? Five?" Sebastian asked.


    "What? Don''t wanna jinx it okay? I am very much satisfied and super happy with what I have right now and you know how wonderful Mel is right? You know Seb, falling in love with her was the second best thing that has happened in my life."


    "Uh Huh, then what is the first one?"


    Cupping his own face, Noah sighed and cheekily smiled. "Hiring her as my assistant was the bestest and the proudest thing I have ever done in my entire life. Imagine what would''ve happened if I didn''t hire her that day?"


    Tapping his fingers on the desk, Sebastian asked, "So hiring her is the proudest and bestest thing you''ve ever done?" When Noah nodded his head, Sebastian added, "Then what about the degrees and all your achievements? Aren''t you proud of them? Shouldn''t you be more proud of them?"


    "Mom says that all those are materialistic happiness. Yes, it sure makes one happy after achieving everything but that happiness is nothing in comparison to the genuine happiness that you feel-" pointing towards the left side of his chest, Noah added, "Here. So the conclusion is that whatever that makes you happy from the bottom of your heart is your greatest and proudest achievement and Melissa makes me happy from the bottom of my heart so doesn''t that make her my greatest achievement?"


    When Sebastian chuckled and helplessly shook his head, Noah asked, "What?"


    "Aunt Rosy and her brilliant ways of seeing things. You know that your mom is great right?" Sebastian loved the way Rose Stewart, Noah''s mother saw everything so differently and positively. It was refreshing and heartwarming.


    "Dude, she is my mother so she is obviously great." Glancing at his watch, Noah quickly got up. "Damn I have a meeting in fifteen minutes and before that I gotta give Mel a shoulder massage. I''ll take my leave man, see you in the evening."


    Stopping Noah, Sebastian smiled and said, "I am happy for you and Mel."


    "And I hope you also find your bestest and proudest achievement very soon. Even I want to see you all bright and happy man."


    After Noah left, Sebastian sighed and took a deep breath. Would he ever manage to find his bestest and proudest achievement?


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian brushed the silly thought aside. He had long lost all his hopes. Which woman would actually dare to love a man like him?


    ...


    "This man is crazy Mel. I am telling you, he is a f.u.c.k.i.n.g psychopath." Tossing the papers aside, Ellie crashed on her chair and massaged her forehead. Her mind had blown away after reading Sebastian''s schedule carefully.


    "Well, it''s Sebastian babe. What else do you expect from a workaholic and perfectionist like him?" Melissa asked.


    "This is just insane, this man also has his meals planned and not only for a day or two, it''s for the whole f.u.c.k.i.n.g week. Why? Why would anyone plan their meals like this? Is he a man or a robot?" Ellie couldn''t really understand the need of pre-planning his meals. Don''t normal people eat whatever they feel or want to?


    Looking at her best friend who was on the verge of freaking out, Melissa couldn''t contain her chuckle. "Look at you going all crazy on the first day. What will happen when you start following Sebastian around everyday?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 20 - Footsteps

    Massaging her temples, Ellie sighed. "I''ll lose all my brain cells this way."


    "Ahh don''t worry babe, I''ll get a bottle of milk for you everyday as a compensation." Pausing for a while, Melissa added, "Wait, a bottle won''t do. I mean it''s Sebastian so maybe a gallon-ahhh forget it, you need to keep a whole damn cow beside you all the time when you are working with him. He is weird."


    Giving her best friend a sarcastic smile, Ellie placed her on her chest and gasped, "Oh thank you so much Mel for telling me that he is weird after I finished signing a contract with the company. You are such a loving and caring friend, Ahhh I feel so blessed."


    Waving her hand on the air, Melissa raised her brows. "Too much sarcasm."


    Ignoring her friend, Ellie started making the schedule for the day for her robotic boss.


    Just then Noah entered the office and rushed towards Melissa. "I am so sorry hun, I got stuck with Seb. We were discussing something important so I am a bit late."


    "It''s okay babe, I was talking to El anyway."


    Placing his hand on Melissa''s shoulder when Noah started giving her a massage, Ellie raised her eyebrows and asked, "What is this now?"


    "This? Oh this is my morning office shoulder massage." Melissa answered.


    "Seriously? First the butt massage thing and now morning office shoulder massage, what are you both up to? What now do you even have a night belly rubbing thing?" Ellie asked.


    Melissa widened her eyes in shock and gasped. "How do you know about our special night belly rub?"


    "You gotta be kidding me?" Without waiting for their reply, Ellie added, "My crazy robotic boss and now your PDA, I''ll go crazy one day for real."


    ¡­..


    Stewart mansion.


    "Don''t worry about the kids Rebecca, I''ll take care of them." Rosy Stewart smiled and assured Rebecca who was about to leave for the airport along with Arthur.


    Giving her a mocking smile, Rebecca said, "Well, why don''t you take care of your son and his so-called girlfriend first? My kids are big enough to take care of themselves."


    "Hmm, I think my son and his so-called girlfriend who by the way has a very beautiful name are doing just fine. They are happy and living a healthy life." Rosy added.


    Picking up her handbag, Rebecca mockingly chuckled, "Huh, happy? Healthy life? You think that commoner will bring any benefits to Noah or to our family?"


    "Melissa is bringing happiness in my son''s life and that is what matters to me. You see Rebecca, our family doesn''t lack my resources or connections so why do we have to rely on someone else for that? All that matters now is whether our kids are happy or not because if they are happy, the house becomes more cheerful and lovely." This wasn''t the first time Rosy had low-key tried to make Rebecca understand not to interfere in her kids life anymore but as always, Rebecca retorted to Rosy''s kind words.


    "Are you trying to say that my kids are not happy?" Rebecca asked.


    "No I-"


    Cutting her off, Rebecca added, "My kids are doing okay. Well at least they haven''t embarrassed me by getting romantically involved with a commoner or their lowly secretary. Ah wait a second, isn''t Noah following in his father''s footsteps?"


    Without waiting for her reply, Rebecca mockingly smirked and left.


    After Rebecca left, Rosy chuckled and helplessly shook her head.


    "Done trying to change a rock into a piece of gold again, honey?" Samuel Stewart asked his wife.


    Rosy chuckled and nodded her head. "Failed again but I''ll try it again later."


    When Samuel sighed and helplessly shook his head, Rosy added, "Well, whatever she said wasn''t all wrong Mr Stewart, your son is indeed following your footsteps."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 21 - Moves

    Samuel Stewart was Arthur Stewart''s younger brother and Noah''s father. Though the two brothers were born and brought up by the same parents and in the same environment, they were still poles apart from each other.


    Unlike Arthur, Samuel was very free spirited and believed in living life without any rules and restrictions. He always did what he wanted to without caring about what others might say.


    While Arthur married Rebecca who was the only daughter of one of their business partners, Samuel married Rosy, his long time assistant who belonged to a very simple and ordinary family background.


    Rosy was a very kind, loving and optimistic woman. She believed in spreading positively and love irrespective to who the other person was. Rosy''s humble and positive character directly clashed with Rebecca''s dominating and overbearing one.


    Apart from the fact that Rebecca always thought lowly of Rosy because of her ordinary background, she hated how her kids were more friendly and chatty with Rosy than her.


    Unlike Arthur and Rebecca, Samuel and Rosy never forced their only son Noah into anything that he wasn''t interested in and neither did they set any rules or expectations that he had to fulfil. He let their son be and do whatever he wanted. They always taught him not to disdain or judge people by their background. They never pressured him for anything. In fact, it was Noah''s decision to opt for a business management studies and take over his father''s position in Stewart Corporation alongside Sebastian.


    "Hmm, that is true. But shouldn''t a son follow his father''s footsteps? Didn''t you want him to become like me?" Samuel asked.


    When Rosy chuckled and nodded her head, Samuel smiled and wrapped his arms around her shoulder. "Since the two of them are gone for months, you can call over Seb and Ava anytime and feed them with their favourites. I am pretty sure that they miss their aunt Rosy''s cuisines a lot."


    "Don''t you miss my cuisines Mr Stewart?" Rosy asked.


    "Oh yes honey, I do. You have no idea how much I crave for them but you only make my favourite when your son visits us."


    "You both have similar taste and favourites, it''s not my fault."


    Samuel pursed his lips and frowned, "You love your son more than me."


    "What? Are you five or something?" Pinching his puffed cheeks, Rosy added, "My love for you and Noah is completely different. And there is Melissa too.


    "Oh honey, you love Melissa and Noah more than me, just accept it." Samuel added.


    Hooking their arms together, Rosy said, "Let''s go home and I''ll make sure to love you even more."


    ¡­..


    Stewart Corporation


    "At what time is my appointment with Mr Cooper scheduled?" Sebastian asked.


    "Right after lunch sir." Passing him his full day schedule, Ellie added, "Patricia has already given me the file and other details that is required for the meeting and-"


    "Seb they are gone." Ava shouted as soon as she entered the office before jumping and swirling around in excitement. She couldn''t contain her happiness after Mura called her and told her about Rebecca and Arthur''s departure.


    Sebastian frowned while Ellie smiled when Ava started dancing around like a free bird.


    Rushing towards her brother, Ava grabbed his hands and pulled him up and forced him to imitate her moves.


    "Oh come on big bro show me your moves." Ava excitedly screamed but Sebastian being Sebastian was not at all interested in even moving a muscle. So instead of joining his sister, he gave her a weird and serious look.


    Jerking his hands off, Ava rolled her eyes. "Like really, what are you? Fifty? Wait, even a fifty year old is more flexible than you are."


    Ellie who was having a very hard time controlling her laughter couldn''t help but chuckle after hearing Ava''s comment.


    "Ahh I see a beautiful young lady in your office big bro, who is she? Your girlfriend?" Ava asked.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 22 - Super happy

    "Not yet but you don''t know what might happen in the future and¡­.ouch babe that hurts." Noah winced in pain when Melissa pinched him.


    Glaring at her boyfriend, Melissa murmured, "Stop pushing my best friend towards your creepy cousin because that is never happening." Apart from the fact that Sebastian was not at all interested in women, there was also a heaven and hell difference between Ellie and Sebastian''s character. One was super cool and lived her life like a free bird while the other was super boring and always caged himself. Ellie was an extrovert while Sebastian was the king of introverts.


    Wrapping his arms around her shoulder, Noah sighed, "Babe, no one has seen the future okay? Remember the time when you said you will never fall for me and would never want to have a thing with your boss?"


    "Oh God, how many times do I have to ask not to bring that embarrassing thing up?"


    Kissing the top of her head, Noah chuckled, "Well, I think that is cute. I mean, what is there to be embarrassed about? I courted you for three long months and then finally you decided to give in. It was super tough to charm you honey."


    "You better have a very good point for bringing that thing up Noah Stewart otherwise you are not touching me tonight." When Noah confessed about his feelings to Melissa for the first time, she had turned him down saying that she would never want to have anything with her boss or anyone she works with as it is against her principles. But later when Noah started courting her and following her around everywhere, she ended up falling for him too. So in order to save herself from embarrassment, Melissa warned Noah never to bring that thing up ever again.


    "Okay my lady. So my point is, even you did not hope that we would happen right?" When Melissa nodded her head. Noah added, "So maybe it''s the same for them."


    "You-"


    "Ahhhh Mel." Ava shouted before rushing towards them.


    Grabbing Melissa''s hand, Ava started swirling around, squealing in excitement.


    Seeing Ava all cheerful and happy, Melissa chuckled and asked, "Someone seems super happy today."


    Letting go of Melissa''s hand, Ava crashed on the couch and breathed a sigh of relief, "Ahhh you have no idea how happy I am Mel. I feel like a free bird today, everything looks so beautiful. I saw a dog pooping on the roadside while coming here and damn it, even that dirty poop looked so beautiful and fresh."


    "Ewwwww, gross." Melissa groaned before crashing on the couch beside Ava.


    "Don''t you people have work? It''s office hours, all of you should be working." Sebastian wasn''t used to having so many inside his office during working hours and he was also not liking the way Ava and Melissa were messing up his couch.


    "Not me big bro, didn''t you say that I can do whatever I want to?" Leaning back, Ava closed her eyes and sighed. "Ahhh the feeling of doing whatever I can without any restrictions already feels super good."


    "Wait what? You can do whatever you want to? I don''t understand." Melissa asked.


    Ava excitedly clapped her hands together and explained, "Mom and dad are away for two months or more. So since Seb is incharge, my kind, generous, handsome and dashing big brother gave me the permission to do whatever I want to. Ah I am even moving into a new place with June after a few days. This is going to be so much fun and Mel, you will accompany us right? For the fun?"


    Melissa grinned and vigorously nodded her head. "You kidding me? Obviously I will. In fact, you are very lucky because we have one more crazy person who will accompany us for this."


    "Who is it?" Ava asked.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 23 - Special invitation

    Rushing towards Ellie who was standing in a corner, Melissa grabbed her hand and dragged her towards Ava. Wrapping her arms around her neck, Melissa smiled. "So Ava this is Ellie, my childhood best friend and my partner in crime."


    "Is she the one who knocked the guy who was harassing you in school down?" Ava asked.


    When Melissa nodded her head, Ava squealed in excitement and pounced into Ellie''s embrace. "Ahhhhhhh you are so great. I have heard so many stories about you from Mel."


    "Wait what? Someone harassed you in school?" Noah asked.


    Melissa nodded her head and explained, "Yes but after Ellie thrashed him, that boy started following her around because he was impressed with her skills."


    Looking at Ellie, Noah pursed his lips. "You can thrash?"


    "Ahh we were kids back then and he was way more skinnier than me so it wasn''t so hard and-"


    Cutting her off, Melissa snapped, "Don''t lie, Ellie has taken self defence classes when she was young so she has her own moves."


    "Woah I always wanted to take one but I wasn''t allowed to because according to my parents, fighting is not something a girl should learn or resort to." In fact, Ava was never allowed to do anything. She wasn''t allowed to do any sleepovers, late night parties or opt for something that she liked.


    "My dad forced me in because he believes that one shouldn''t be dependent on someone else to protect them. I was reluctant at first too but now I am happy that I took those classes. Hey, why don''t you take them now?" Ellie asked.


    Grabbing Ellie''s hand, Ava asked, "Will you teach me?"


    "Wait what? Me? I-"


    "Please please please, I swear I''ll be a very good student." Ava pleaded.


    "I mean I would love to but my schedule is a bit tight and-" seeing the excitement in Ava''s face, Ellie didn''t have the heart to turn her down. "You know what? I''ll squeeze in some time for you okay? May be in the morning before I report in the office or may be after I am done with work?"


    "Anything will do. Ahh thank you so much El, you are also my angel." Giving Ellie a hug, Ava was about to say something when Sebastian snapped, "Ms Miller, I think we have a meeting to attend."


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and pursed her lips. She completely forgot about her boss who was in the same room. "Yeah right sir, we should leave."


    Grabbing his briefcase, Sebastian rechecked the doc.u.ments before getting up and straightening his suit.


    "Woahhh wait a second, we were actually here to invite you people home for dinner." Noah informed.


    Turning towards Ellie, Melissa said, "El I am throwing this dinner party especially for you. We have invited all our friends today so you can meet them too."


    "And Seb, you need to come." Noah added.


    When Sebastian frowned, Ava asked, "Stop making that face, it makes you look old. And it''s just a dinner party, I am sure you can squeeze in sometime from your schedule."


    Glancing at his watch, Sebastian gestured Ellie to follow him. "I''ll have to see."


    "But-"


    Before Noah could say anything, Sebastian walked of the office along with Ellie.


    ¡­..


    Outside Stewart Corporation


    "Are the insights for the meetings ready?" Sebastian asked.


    "Yes sir, I have already sorted things out and-"


    "We will be meeting Mr Gordon Hudson today. He is one of our old clients and someone our company values. I want the meeting to be run smoothly and make sure not to mess things up."


    Ellie vigorously nodded her head and agreed. "I''ll be extra careful sir."


    Just then a black Bentley stopped right in front of them.

 Chapter 24 - Spoilsport

    Opening the back door, Sebastian tossed his briefcase inside before boarding the car.


    Ellie pursed her lips and wondered whether she was supposed to get into the car or not. According to what Melissa had told her, Sebastian never allowed anyone to enter his car. He would always arrange some other car for his assistant but Ellie couldn''t see any other car besides the Bentley.


    "Ms Miller, do you need any kind of special invitation to enter the car?" Sebastian asked.


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and vigorously shook her head before entering the car.


    ¡­.


    Inside the car.


    Gesturing the chauffeur to move, Sebastian said, "The car which is usually used by my assistant has been sent for servicing so until then, you are going to travel with me."


    "Okay sir."


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, Sebastian added, "And you don''t have to take the trouble and teach Ava anything. She can be childish sometimes so it''s alright, I''ll hire someone for her."


    "It''s alright sir, I think I can manage and an hour in the morning before office time wouldn''t harm. It will be a good practice for me as well."


    When Sebastian nodded his head, Ellie asked, "Ehh Boss, should I clear your schedule after six?"


    "For what good reason?" Sebastian asked.


    Scratching her forehead, Ellie awkwardly cleared her throat and answered, "Hmmm, for the dinner party."


    "There is no need for that."


    "Oh okay." Turning towards the window, Ellie frowned and wondered why was her boss being such a spoilsport.


    ¡­..


    Pan Pacific hotel.


    Inside a private room.


    As soon as Ellie and Sebastian entered the room, a young man dressed in an all black suit welcomed them.


    "Mr Stewart, it''s my honour to see you again." Danny Hudson greeted Sebastian with a very sly smile on his face but when he saw a beautiful woman standing right beside him, Danny smirked and licked his lower lip.


    Sebastian frowned and pursed his lips when he did not see Gordon Hudson but his ill-mannered and notorious son.


    Unbuttoning his suit, Sebastian said, "I believe I had a meeting with your father and not you."


    With his eyes not leaving Ellie, Danny chuckled, "Is Mr Stewart not happy to see me?" Without waiting for Sebastian''s reply, Danny added, "But I am very happy to see Mr Stewart, especially the beautiful lady beside you who I strongly believe is your new assistant."


    Ellie, who was busy going through the insights, lifted her head up when she realised that they were talking about her.


    Tucking his hand inside his pocket, Sebastian narrowed his eyes at the man who was ogling all over Ellie. He detested men like Danny who would l.u.s.t over any women they saw. This was also one of the reasons why he never did any kind of business with Danny Hudson. Sebastian always preferred his father over him.


    "Oh please come on in, let''s start talking business." Danny smirked and sat down.


    Buttoning his suit, Sebastian slowly made his way towards the table while Ellie followed him behind.


    Extending his hand towards Sebastian for a friendly shake, Danny said, "Father had to fly to France for an emergency meeting so he asked me to attend Mr Stewart."


    "We could''ve rescheduled this."


    "Ah what are you saying? My father knows how precious Mr Stewart''s time is, so how could we just let it waste and besides that-" turning towards Ellie, Danny smiled, "If I hadn''t decided to attend the meeting, how would''ve I met your new beautiful assistant."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 25 - Hot assistant

    Awkwardly scratching her forehead, Ellie gave Danny a weak smile. How badly she wanted to break his head but she knew she couldn''t.


    Extending his hand towards Ellie, Danny smirked. "It''s a pleasure meeting you Ms-"


    "Ms Miller, why don''t you go out and sit in the car while I finish things off with Mr Hudson." Taking the file from her hand, Sebastian placed it on the table and waited for Ellie to leave the room.


    Without wasting any time, Ellie nodded his head and left.


    After making sure that she was already out of sight, Sebastian felt a bit relieved. He frowned wondering why he would feel that way but the thought about Ellie being away from Danny''s l.u.s.tful gaze made him feel much more at ease.


    "Keeping a hot chick beside you and also being possessive of her, doesn''t seem like something Sebastian Steward would do." Danny commented before settling himself down.


    When Sebastian did not say anything, Danny added, "You see, when you hire a hot assistant for yourself, make sure not to carry her around this way. Hot women like her are like a piece of raw meat and remember that there are many hungry lions and tigers like me who are always ready to pounce upon and gobble them whole."


    Clenching his hand into fist, Sebastian narrowed his eyes. Grabbing the file from the table, he barged out of the room.


    Danny widened his eyes in shock and quickly rushed after him. "Sebastian wait."


    ¡­.


    Outside.


    "Hey, how can you walk out that way? What about our meeting?" Danny asked. His dad has warned him several times not to mess things up and try to keep the meeting smooth. He had also told him how important this deal was for their company and if Sebastian walked out without having the meeting, what would he tell his dad?


    Without saying anything, Sebastian took out his phone and called someone.


    "Whom are you calling?" Danny asked.


    Ignoring him, Sebastian waiting until the person from the other side received his call. "Good after Mr Hudson, it''s Sebastian."


    Danny soul almost left his body when he realised that Sebastian had actually called his father.


    "Ahh Sebastian, I hope that meeting is going well and Danny isn''t messing things up?" Mr Gordon Hudson asked.


    Looking at Danny who was breaking into a cold sweat, Sebastian smirked. "Well, I called Mr Hudson to inform him that the meeting couldn''t start at all."


    Mr Hudson pursed his lips and asked, "Why? Did something happen?"


    "We were about to start the meeting when your son suddenly started feeling hungry. He started comparing my assistant to a raw piece of meat and also called himself a hungry lion. He then said that he wanted to pounce upon her and eat her up. So how could I have a meeting in such circ.u.mstances?"


    Pausing for a while Sebastian added, "Your son surely starts hallucinating when he is hungry and I think Mr Hudson should take care of his appetite. I had to send my assistant away because I feared your son would gobble her whole."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Mr Hudson said, "I apologise for his behaviour, let''s have a meeting again after I come back."


    "Sure, just let me know a day before you come back." After hanging up the call, Sebastian shoved his phone inside his pocket.


    Looking at Danny who was staring at him with bloodshot eyes, Sebastian mockingly smirked, "Next time when you go for a meeting, do make sure that you are full because you don''t wanna embarrass yourself again unless you want to."


    Without waiting for his reply, Sebastian left leaving Danny behind.


    Glaring at his retrieving back, Danny gritted his teeth. "I''ll surely get back to you for this Sebastian Stewart."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 26 - Cold and unapproachable

    Inside the car.


    Ellie was getting restless and feeling suffocated inside the car even though it had been only a few minutes since she exited the hotel as per her bosses instructions and sitting inside the car.


    The chauffeur was the only one whom she could talk to but after looking at his cold expression, Ellie decided not to bug him. What if he threw her out of the car for disturbing him?


    After noticing the chauffeur''s cold face, Ellie wondered why the people around Sebastian Stewart were like him? Cold and unapproachable.


    Just then, Sebastian entered the car and gestured the chauffeur to leave.


    "The meeting ended so fast? Ah I thought it would take all day. So sir, did it go well?" Ellie asked.


    Keeping quiet for quite sometime, Sebastian answered, "The meeting did not happen and you have to reschedule it after Mr Gordon Hudson returns back."


    Ellie nodded her head and said, "Sure sir."


    ¡­..


    6:30pm


    Stewart Corporation.


    "I can''t just leave the office, my boss just asked me to look for a brown file which by the way I have no idea where the person who was in charge before me has kept." With her phone on loudspeaker mode, Ellie was talking to Melissa who was nagging her for not arriving for the dinner get together.


    "But why, isn''t Seb coming too? Don''t tell me he is not?" Melissa asked.


    Ellie shrugged her shoulders and sighed, "Well-"


    "Ahh he is always the spoilsport and look he is making you one too. It''s your first get together after you arrived and I don''t want you to miss it." Melissa had arranged everything so that Ellie could make more friends and feel more comfortable but since she was still stuck in work and the chances of her showing up was slim, Melissa felt bad.


    "Hey, I''ll show up as soon as he finishes his work okay? I''ll get a cab and straight to your place. Whether it''s 8pm or 10, I am not missing it so save some food for me." Ellie tried to console her best friend. Even she wanted to attend the get together but how could she leave the office when her boss was still working?


    "Ahh I don''t know what to say now, Sebastian is definitely not gonna show up but you can''t ditch us too okay? Ava is already super excited to see you again and-"


    "Ahhh found it, hmmm what were you saying Mel? Ah nevermind, I''ll be there anyhow okay? Don''t be upset if I am late. Bye, I love you."


    "But-" Before Mel could complete her sentence, Ellie hung up the call and rushed out of her office only to bump into Sebastian at the door.


    "Hmm boss, you are here? Ahh anyway, I found the file you wanted and-"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian said, "Let''s call it for the day. Keep the file with you and we will deal with this tomorrow."


    "Oh so you are leaving too?" Ellie asked.


    "Why? You don''t want me to attend the get together?" Sebastian asked.


    "Ahh I did not mean that. I thought you said that you didn''t wanna go so-"


    Initially Sebastian had planned not to attend the get together as he was really not into attending such events so he had asked Ellie to look for a file which he needed to refer.


    But when Ellie did not come back, Sebastian decided to look for the file on his own.


    When he arrived outside Ellie''s office, he refrained himself from entering when he happened to eavesdrop the conversation between the two best friends. And for some odd reason, Sebastian felt somehow guilty for holding Ellie back. He was about to brush off the bizarre feeling and get back to work but he when saw Ellie, Sebastian forgot about everything and ended up calling it off for the day.


    "Yeah I did say that but then I decided to go so since I am leaving too, why would you stay?"


    Ellie smiled and nodded her head. "Yeah, I''ll go grab my things and leave. Thank you so much sir."


    "Wait for me outside." Sebastian said before turning around and leaving.


    ¡­.


    Outside


    Holding her work bag, Ellie was patiently waiting for Sebastian at the entrance when Patricia called her out.


    "Hey Ellie, what are you doing here?"


    "Ahh I thought you already left." Ellie said.


    "I was about to but what are you doing here?"


    "Ahh I have to go to Melissa''s place for dinner so I was about to leave." Ellie answered.


    "I see, do you want me to call a cab for you?" Patricia asked.


    Ellie shook her head and smiled, "That is so sweet of you but boss asked me wait at the entrance so I don''t know-"


    "Wait Sebastian? At this time?" Glancing at her watch, Patricia added, "It''s not even seven yet and there is no way Sebastian is going to leave his office so early."


    "I guess he is leaving his office early today." Pointing her chin at Sebastian who was walking towards them, holding his briefcase, Ellie added, "He said he will attend the dinner party too."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 27 - Change

    Patricia widened her eyes in shock when she saw Sebastian walking towards them. Pointing towards him, Patricia asked, "Is that Sebastian? Our boss?"


    Placing her hand on Patricia''s shoulder, Ellie asked, "Patricia, are you okay?"


    Patricia, who was still shocked and horrified after seeing her boss leave the office so early couldn''t believe that it was actually happening. The workaholic Sebastian Stewart who loved the walls of his office and his files more than his life was actually leaving early to attend a party?


    Patricia was more stunned than scared that maybe her boss had hit his head somewhere and had lost his memories or someone else was pretending to be Sebastian. What if the one who abandoned work for a party is an intruder?


    "Patricia, why are you still here?" Sebastian asked.


    "I-"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian said, "I think you should leave too, it''s already past office time."


    "Eh boss is your watch working fine?" Patricia asked.


    When Sebastian nodded his head, Patricia added, "Are you sure boss?"


    Glancing at his watch, Sebastian frowned, "It''s 6:45 right now." Turning towards Ellie, Sebastian asked, "Ms Miller, what is the time by your watch?"


    Glancing at her wrist watch, Ellie answered, "6:45 sir."


    "Hmm Patricia, I think it''s working fine."


    Patricia awkwardly cleared her throat and asked, "But sir are you really leaving? It''s not even 7 yet."


    Sebastian thought for a while and answered, "Noah and Melissa are throwing a dinner party and they have invited me too so I decided to leave early."


    Patricia forced herself to nod her head and smiled. "Of course, a break is good for health. I hope you have a fun and you too Ellie."


    Ellie smiled and nodded her head before taking out her phone to call a cab.


    "Ms Miller, let''s leave." Taking the keys from the chauffeur''s hand, Sebastian unlocked the car and gestured the chauffeur to leave.


    Ellie pointed towards her and asked, "Me?"


    Sebastian frowned and asked, "Is there any other Miller around?" When Ellie vigorously shook her head, he added, "So isn''t it evident that I am talking to you?"


    "Oh, hmm it''s okay sir, I''ll take a cab." How could she let her boss chauffeur her around? Wouldn''t that be awkward? Not only awkward, it would feel weird too.


    "We are going the same way and to the same place so it will be more convenient if I drive us there. Please get into the car otherwise we will be late."


    Ellie thought for a while before pulling the passenger door and getting into the car.


    Patricia who was standing not too far away from them, still had a shocked expression on.


    First, Sebastian leaving office early to attend a party which had never happened in the past and second, Sebastian letting someone else sit inside his car. In fact, he actually volunteered to give someone a ride in his car. With so many unusual things happening, Patricia was having a head rush.


    As the car drove away, Patricia''s lips curled upwards. Maybe the change was for good and maybe things would turn even better in the future. Maybe Ellie would bring out the best of Sebastian.


    All Patricia wanted was Sebastian to live and enjoy his life like men of his age did but no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t persuade him to set his work aside for a while and enjoy his life. But now when she was seeing a change, Patricia was feeling very happy and overwhelmed.


    ¡­..


    Noah''s and Melissa''s place


    "Ahhh put me down." Ava screamed.


    Swirling her around for a couple of times, Calvin Lewis carefully placed her down and took a deep breath. "Ahh you''ve gained weight, I can''t carry you with ease like I used to."


    Smacking his shoulder, Ava frowned, "How mean of you to call a woman fat?"


    Faking a gasp, Calvin cupped his cheeks. "Oh you are a woman? Really? I didn''t know that."


    Placing her hand on her waist when Ava glared at him, Calvin grinned and added, "It was a joke."


    "I don''t like jokes." Stamping his foot on purpose, Ava walked away.


    "Ouch¡­hey, they are brand new and I bought them today." Calvin shouted.


    "Uh huh, they are ugly." Ava shouted.


    Walking towards her, Calvin grabbed Ava''s wrist and pulled her closer. Leaning towards her, Calvin whispered, "If you weren''t Sebastian''s sister, I would''ve shown you that nothing about Calvin Lewis is ugly."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 28 - Natural kick

    Calvin Lewis was the only son of the Lewis family who owned a chain of hotels and restaurants all over the States and other countries.


    His excellent facial features, handsome face, s.e.xy physique, his charming personality and his fat wallet was more than enough to make a woman cling onto him like a leech. Each and every woman he fancied would directly force herself into his arms without him making any kind of effort to impress her.


    Ava rolled her eyes and sighed. "I really pity all the women you have been with."


    "What? Pity? Why would you pity them? In fact, you should pity me. They are lucky that Calvin Lewis decided to spare a couple of hours with them." Pulling her closer, he added, "In fact, you are the luckiest amongst them all. I actually carry you around whenever I see you and I also let you sit in the front seat of my car. You also have the liberty to enter my office whenever you want to and you are allowed to kick me too."


    "Ahh is it?" Without waiting for his reply, Ava kicked Calvin''s calf using all her might.


    "Ouch¡­."Calvin winced in pain before shouting, "Oh God, you look so frail but damn you kick so hard."


    "Uh huh, this is my natural kick, just wait until I start my self defense training. I''ll kick your ass everyday after that." Shrugging her shoulders, Ava turned around and left.


    "You are so dead Ava Stewart, you are seriously gonna regret this." Calvin shouted before rushing towards her.


    When Ava saw him chasing her, she screamed before running away from him.


    Melissa, who was busy whipping the batter for her dessert, rolled her eyes at the two big twenty year old kids who were running all over the living room. "Seriously, when will these two grow up?"


    Noah chuckled and said, "Well, they have been like this for as long as I can remember so may be, never."


    When Melissa did not say anything, Noah sighed and wrapped his arms around her shoulder, "Honey, it''s alright, you don''t have to be sad."


    "How can I not be sad Noah? This was supposed to be a welcome party for Ellie but she is not present and maybe she wont come at all. How am I supposed to be okay and not sad?" Melissa was very upset and sad because Ellie was still stuck with Sebastian.


    "Well, you know how Sebastian is honey. He would rather starve to death than leave his office before the clock struck nine or maybe ten sometimes." Noah had somewhat figured out that this would happen but he still didn''t want to stop Melissa from throwing a welcome party for her friend because she was very excited about it.


    "But how is this fair for El? Does she have to stay with Sebastian in the office? What will happen to my best friend''s life? What if she also becomes like Sebastian?" Melissa now somewhat regretted recommending Ellie the job. She knew how tough it was to work with Sebastian and yet she pushed her best friend into it.


    "Hey, that will not happen okay? Stop worrying about so many things. Ellie is going to be fine, I''ll talk to Sebastian about this okay? Now why don''t you quickly finish off your tasty dessert?" Noah asked.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 29 - Awestruck

    "You wait right there, I swear I''ll not do anything." Calvin tried to appease Ava who had been running around in circles, making it very difficult for him to catch her.


    "Ahh really? Don''t you think I am too old to fall for that stupid lie?" Ava shouted.


    "What? You are still a kid, a baby." Calvin shouted before yanking at her.


    Dodging his attack, Ava ran upstairs shouting, "Seems like the handsome Mr Lewis has grown old."


    Calvin frowned and retorted, "You-who are you calling old?"


    "YOU." Ava shouted.


    "You-just wait Ava." Calvin shouted before rushing after her.


    "Hey, don''t wreck my house." Noah shouted.


    ¡­.


    Upstairs.


    Dashing into a random bedroom, Ava threw the pillow at him and chuckled, "You see, truth always hurts."


    Dodging the pillow, Calvin frowned deeper. "I am just twenty-five years old okay? It''s a blooming age."


    Ava mockingly chuckled and vigorously nodded her head, "Pttfff yeah sureeeeeeeee."


    Calvin gritted his teeth and shouted, "You are so dead." Before pouncing towards her.


    Not ready for the sudden attack, Ava lost her balance and ended up falling on the bed followed by Calvin.


    Ava yelped and closed her eyes, ready to be thrashed by him but nothing happened.


    Calvin, who was currently on top of her, was completely awestruck by Ava''s beauty. From her rosy cheeks to lips, everything was so mesmerizing. Even her messy hair which was all over her face looked so attractive.


    Had she always been so attractive and beautiful? Why didn''t he ever notice this beautiful woman whom he almost grew up with until today?


    Removing a strand of hair from her face, Calvin said, "You are beautiful."


    Biting her lower lip, Ava blushed vigorously. The position they were at was already very awkward and Calvin''s gaze was making her feel very nervous. He didn''t seem like the usual Calvin with whom she used to joke and prank everyday. He felt different, the look in his eyes felt different.


    Eyes, Ava had always loved his light greenish-blue eyes. In fact, everything about him was worth drooling at. His sharp perfect jawline to his perfectly shaped brows, everything was so perfect. No wonder he always gloats about his handsomeness.


    Placing her hands on his chest when Ava slightly parted her lips, Calvin caressed her right cheek with his thumb and shook his head. "Never again bite your lips like that in front of any other guy, you have no idea how alluring you look when you do that."


    When Ava slowly nodded her head, Calvin closed his eyes and took a deep breath before getting off her. He would''ve never controlled his wild feelings and desires if it was some other woman but she was not some random woman, she was Ava and Ava was important to Calvin.


    Awkwardly scratching his neck, Calvin got up. "Umm, I''ll go out first."


    Before Ava could say anything, Calvin rushed out of the room.


    ¡­..


    Downstairs


    "Ahh that is so sweet of you Owen but this was just a simple dinner party, there was no need to get gifts." Taking the gift from Owen Fleming''s hand, Melissa elbowed Noah.


    "Ahh-Oh thank you so much man, you are really very awesome." Noah added.


    "Anything for Mel''s tasty food."


    Owen Fleming was the chairman of Noon Biotic, the leading pharmaceutical company in the country. He was an orphan and had started everything from scratch. His education was sponsored by Noah''s father, Samuel Stewart so he had a very close relationship with them.


    "Calvin and Ava are fighting again, can you please go and check them out?" Noah asked.


    "What? Again? I''ll go and check on them."


    After Owen left, Melissa excitedly squealed. "Ah this is why I love Owen, he gets gifts every time we invite him. Such a sweet little thing."


    "Babe, I thought you didn''t want one." Noah asked.


    "You kidding me? Why wouldn''t anyone want gifts?" Melissa asked.


    "But you told Owen that-"


    Cutting him off, Melissa snapped, "That is called being courteous and humble okay? When someone gives you something, you first politely say that you don''t want it and there is no need to get one but actually you want it."


    "Oh is it? So is this why whenever I give you something, you ask me not to buy things for you in the future?" Noah asked.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 30 - Over dramatic friends

    Opening Owen''s gift, Melissa nodded her head, "Uh huh, that means I want you to buy more gifts for me honey."


    Clearing his throat, Noah nodded his head. "I''ll keep that in mind babe." Though he had no idea how that made sense, he decided to choose the safer side and agree with his girlfriend.


    Noah would never disagree with Melissa because if he dared to act all high and mighty, she would use her super powers, give him a boner and then kick him out of the room. She would then walk n.a.k.e.d around him for a couple of days until he begs for forgiveness.


    ¡­.


    "Dude, what are you doing here?" Owen asked Calvin who was standing near the stairs in a daze.


    When Calvin shook his head, Owen sighed, "Seriously? You still think you can hide anything from me?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Calvin ran his fingers through his hair and sighed, "Dude, Ava is beautiful."


    Owen nodded his head and readily agreed. "I would never deny-" Stopping midway, he widened his eyes in shock. "No way, you gotta be kidding me."


    Massaging his forehead, Calvin sighed. "I think I had a moment with Ava a few seconds ago."


    "I thought you treated her like your little sister."


    Calvin frowned and snapped, "What? No, I never thought of Ava as my sister."


    "Well, with all the fighting and teasing, I thought maybe you do. Anyway, what now?" Owen asked.


    "What? Nothing, I''ll have to get over this and stop thinking about that beautiful woman who smells so good and sweet." Pausing for a while, Calvin asked, "Do you think Seb and Noah will let me off if I tell them that I can''t stop thinking about how s.e.xy, tempting and beautiful their little sister looks?"


    Owen sighed and nodded his head. "Hmmm, even I would get mad if that happens and I don''t think so you should eye on Ava, I mean it would be bad for our bro code." Pausing for a while, he added, "Hey, we can court the sister''s best friend right? I mean, that isn''t against the bro code right?"


    Calvin rolled his eyes and said, "Yes Owen, you can court Ava''s best friend."


    Owen shrugged his shoulders and snapped, "Hey, I can''t help it okay? June is cute."


    ...


    Downstairs.


    When the doorbell rang, Melissa frowned and called out for Noah to get the door but when he did not answer, Melissa washed her hands and jogged towards the door.


    When Melissa opened the door, she widened eyes in shock.


    "No-Noah." Melissa shouted.


    "What is it babe?" Noah asked before approaching her. "I was looking for the wine which I had bought last week and-wooooaaahhhh." Stopping midway, Noah rubbed his eyes and blinked several times to make sure what he was seeing was the truth and reality and not a hallucination.


    "Well, I was expecting a warm over excited hug but a shocked, pale and weird expression and a very cold welcome will work too." Ellie commented before squeezing herself inside.


    Pointing towards the man standing in front of them, Noah shouted, "Who are you and what did you do with my brother?"


    Sebastian: -_-


    Ellie: O_O


    "Do you want me to go back?" Sebastian asked.


    Melissa gasped and widened her eyes in shock. "Oh my God he is really Sebastian."


    Noah quickly stepped forward and touched Sebastian''s forehead. "You have no fever." Grabbing his hand, Noah started examining his watch. "Your watch is working fine too."


    Without waiting for his reply, Noah placed his hand on Sebastian''s shoulder and asked, "Dude, are you sure that you are alright? Did you hit your head or something?"


    "El did something happen when you both were in the office? I mean did Sebastian get hurt or something?" Melissa asked.


    Ellie shook her head and frowned, "No nothing happened."


    "I thought you said that you will be coming late."


    Ellie nodded her head and explained, "Yes but after hanging up the call, boss came into my office and said that we should leave early to attend your dinner party so-"


    Melissa gasped and asked Sebastian, "You left work for my dinner party?"


    Looking at his over dramatic friends, Sebastian scrunched his face. So what if he left his office a little for the first time in four years? Was it really such a huge thing?


    ¡­..

 Chapter 31 - N.a.k.e.d butt

    "Is that Sebastian?" Glancing at his watch, Calvin added, "It''s not even seven, what are you doing here? Are you here to take some kind of an official file from Noah?"


    "Ahh hey Seb, haven''t seen you around lately. Oh wait a second." Pausing for a while, Owen added, "It''s because you don''t come around at all."


    "You guys, stop making fun of Seb, he is here to attend the party."


    Calvin and Owen widened their eyes in shock and shouted, "What?"


    "You are kidding right?" Owen asked.


    Massaging his forehead, Calvin asked, "So are you telling me that Sebastian left work early to hang out with us? Like seriously? Is doomsday around the corner?"


    Ellie''s brows twitched when she saw how everyone was acting over dramatic. So what if a person left his office a bit early? Shouldn''t they be happy that he finally decided to join his friends?


    Leaning towards Melissa, Ellie whispered, "Mel, why is everyone acting so weird? I feel so sorry for boss, I mean just look at him." She genuinely felt very bad Sebastian who was still standing at the doorway, patiently hearing everyone''s over exaggerated comments.


    "El, do you have any idea how huge this is? Sebastian actually left his office so early for the first time he took over the company. Remember how I told you that he is spoilsport?" When Ellie nodded her head, Melissa added, "So you see, Sebastian never shows up when anyone of us throw a party. Sometimes he did but only after 9:00pm because that is when he gets off work. But today it''s not even seven and he is here."


    "Well, I think you people should appreciate it more than being overly dramatic and making things so awkward for him. He left office early to attend your party so can you be a bit humble? Give him a warm welcome at least."


    Raising her eyebrows at her best friend, Melissa pursed her lips. "Seriously El?"


    "What?"


    "You are already siding up with him. What happened to you and me always being on the same side?"


    Ellie shrugged her shoulders and defended herself. "I am not taking sides but being sensible here. I think you guys are very mean to him and I don''t think so he is as bad as you people portray him to be."


    "Okay, what did exactly Sebastian do to you?"


    "I see a new face in this place."


    "Oh yes, I didn''t even notice." Calvin added.


    "Ahh El you are here." Ava shouted before rushing towards her. Pouncing into her embrace, Ava added, "I thought my boring spoilsport brother wouldn''t let you off so you wouldn''t be able to make it."


    Patting Ava''s back, Ellie said, "Well, your brother is here too."


    Bursting into laughter, Ava lightly smacked Ellie''s arm. "That was a good one but I am not falling for that."


    Ignoring everyone, Sebastian entered the apartment and sat down on the couch.


    Ava widened her eyes in shock when she saw the most unexpected person. Walking towards him, she sat down beside him and started poking his arm.


    "What is it?" Sebastian asked.


    Ava gasped and squealed in excitement. "Ahhh you are really Sebastian." Turning towards Ellie, she asked, "Did you do this to him?"


    "I don''t understand, why is it so hard for everyone to believe this?" Ellie asked.


    "Hey Noah, who is she?" Calvin asked.


    "She is Sebastian''s new assistant and Melissa''s best friend Ellie Miller."


    "Woah Seb got a hot assistant, no wonder I see slight visible changes in him." Owen said.


    "What happened to the horny one?" Calvin asked.


    Noah sighed and explained, "Seb kicked her out when she rubbed her ass against his desk."


    "Woah, n.a.k.e.d ass?" Owen asked.


    When Noah nodded his head, Calvin frowned, "So a horny woman rubbed her n.a.k.e.d ass on his desk and he kicked her out? Are you sure that Seb is straight?"


    "Hmmm, I don''t know and I have already given up on him. I got him so many different kinds of women but nothing seems to turn him on so maybe he is not straight." Noah had been trying to add colors in his brother''s life for years now but always ended up failing miserably.


    Calvin sighed and helplessly shook his head. "I wish there was way to find out."


    Owen thought for a while and suggested, "Hey Cal, why don''t you rub your n.a.k.e.d butt on his desk?"


    When Noah and Calvin gave a weird look, Owen added, "Oh what I mean is, since a n.a.k.e.d butt rubbing woman couldn''t turn him on so may be a n.a.k.e.d butt rubbing Calvin would."


    ¡­...

 Chapter 32 - Possessive

    When Noah grinned at him, Calvin frowned, "I hope you both aren''t serious about this because this is hurting my manly ego."


    "Well, I guess it''s worth a shot. Not only can we find out whether a n.a.k.e.d man turns Seb on or not, we can also find out whether you are bis.e.x.u.a.l or not and¡ª"


    "I am out of this stupid conversation because you both are sick and maybe you two also need a therapy. You want me to rub my butt on Seb''s desk you¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Owen corrected him, "N.a.k.e.d butt. Well, I just wanted you to be specific. Rubbing your butt on his desk with your clothes still on wouldn''t do anything."


    "Yeah, I agree with that, your pants will get dirty and if you don''t manage to impress him with your n.a.k.e.d butt rubbing on time, there is a very high chance of Sebastian throwing you out of the office."


    "Or may be out of the window."


    Resisting the strong urge to punch them black and blue, Calvin took a deep breath to calm himself down. Sticking out his middle finger, he waved it right on their faces simultaneously before walking away.


    ¡­.


    Kitchen


    "Seriously El, what did you do?"


    "What do you mean?"


    "What did you do with him? I mean my brother. He doesn''t feel like my brother anymore, he feels so different and fun loving while the real Sebastian is nowhere near that." Ava was still having a hard time believing that Sebastian was attending the dinner party.


    "Oh come on, your brother is also a human being and he needs to chill too. Maybe he decided to clear his mind and slack off a little."


    Ava sighed and groaned in frustration, "Ahh how can you take this think so lightly? It''s Sebastian who is slacking and not Noah or Calvin."


    "Ava, El isn''t exactly familiar with Sebastian''s situation like us so this isn''t a big thing for her." Taking the towel from Ellie''s hand, she continued, "And I think El is right, we shouldn''t act this way and make things more awkward for Sebastian. I mean no matter what reason, he is here to enjoy with us so let''s be nice to him."


    "I am always nice to him, he is the mean one."


    ¡­..


    Outside


    "So let''s talk about your hot assistant."


    "Yeah man, she seems very nice, beautiful and hot."


    "Owen, Cal you know that Mel will throw you out if she hears this right?" Looking at the kitchen door, Noah silently warned his friends not to say anything which would trigger Melissa.


    "What? I just said she is hot and I mean it."


    Calvin nodded his head and added, "Yeah, I agree with Owen. Don''t tell me you think that she isn''t hot."


    "Well, I won''t deny that."


    "What about you Seb, do you think she is hot?" Owen asked.


    Placing the glass on the table, Sebastian cracked his fingers and shrugged his shoulder. "Well, I can''t really answer that but I do know what will happen if I tell you June that you are calling some other woman hot and s.e.xy in her absence?"


    Spating the wine out, Owen coughed vigorously. "Dude, are you trying to threaten me?"


    "I don''t believe in threats, I am a man of action." Waving his phone at Owen, Sebastian asked, "Do you want me to call her right now?"


    "Bully." Owen murmured before puffing his cheeks.


    Turning towards Noah, Sebastian narrowed his eyes. "And you, do you want me to tell Melissa that you are calling Ellie out with lewd names?"


    "Dude, do you want me to sleep on the couch? Do you?"


    "Exactly and what is so lewd about s.e.xy and hot?" Owen asked.


    "I know right? I think you are overreacting." Noah added.


    "Stay in your limits okay? How do you think Ellie would feel if she hears all of this? Do you want a woman to feel uncomfortable amongst us?" Sebastian asked.


    Tapping his finger on the table, Calvin smirked, "Hmm, I don''t know how Ellie would feel but you know what?"


    "What?" Noah asked.


    Pointing towards Sebastian, he added, "This man is possessive of his assistant."


    ¡­...

 Chapter 33 - Heart over d.i.c.k

    Sebastian frowned and pursed his lips. "Stop talking shit." Why would he be possessive of Ellie? He was just stopping his friends from saying rubbish things about her which would make her feel uncomfortable. If they had been doing the same thing for some other woman, he would''ve still stopped them, right?


    "Well, apart from the fact that this isn''t the first time we are talking about a woman this way, you never took all the trouble to call us out individually and also threaten us."


    Cupping his own cheeks, Owen smiled, "Aww is little Stewart falling for his beautiful assistant already?"


    "Hmm, no wonder your last assistant didn''t turn you on. He prefers sweet and simple women over horny one." Noah added.


    "Ahh I heard s.e.x with simple and sugar-sweet women is a blast so I can see he why prefers them over horny ones."


    Smacking Calvin''s arm, Noah frowned, "Shut up Cal, our Seb isn''t interested in s.e.x. He is a kind man who chooses his heart over his d.i.c.k unlike you."


    "What? So you think I choose my d.i.c.k over my heart? Like seriously? You think I am that kind of a man?" Calvin asked.


    "Even I second Noah over that."


    Looking at Owen and Noah simultaneously, Calvin pursed his lips. "Well, it''s like that most of the time but not always."


    Placing the glass down, Noah asked, "So are you telling me that there is actually a time when you actually choose your heart over your d.i.c.k?" When Calvin nodded his head, he added, "Uh huh, when?"


    Calvin frowned, pursed his lips and immersed himself in a very deep thought. The moment he had with Ava a few minutes ago, doesn''t that count? That was indeed the first time he chose to listen to his heart and not give in to the strong desires that she had ignited with the charm of her beauty.


    Looking at Noah and Sebastian simultaneously, Calvin sighed. Wouldn''t these two over-possessive brothers kill him or atleast stab him multiple times if he proudly narrates the moment he had with their little sister to prove his point? He didn''t wish to die young so he decided to stay shut and let them think of him as a d.i.c.k guy.


    "What? You''ve no answer?"


    When Calvin rolled his eyes, Noah added, "You see, I knew it. You are such an ass Cal and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian asked, "Weren''t you like him before meeting Melissa? Do you want me to tell her how I helped you get rid of all the women who always ventured around you and craved for your attention?"


    Noah widened his eyes in shock and quickly turned towards the kitchen. After making sure that Melissa was nowhere to be seen, he breathed a sigh of relief. "Dude, are you out of your mind? Do you want me to die? No seriously do you? Because if Melissa kills me after she hears this, you''ll be the first one I''ll haunt. My spirit will linger around you forever."


    "Ahh so Noah also had chicks, that is interesting."


    Turning towards Owen, Noah gritted his teeth, "That was four years ago, I was young and reckless but now it''s different. I am a family man now and I love my baby a lot."


    "What are you all talking about?" Melissa asked before settling herself in Noah''s lap.


    "Hmm nothing babe, I was just telling them how much I love you and I cannot wait to eat the custard that you made."


    When everyone widened their eyes in shock, Noah panicked. Caressing Melissa''s back, he said, "Honey, why don''t you go and see if the custard is ready or not?"


    "Ah yes, I''ll be back in a minute."


    After Melissa left, Calvin frowned, "Dude, you said there was no custard."


    "Exactly, don''t tell me you framed us."


    "Wait, are you talking about the horrendous apple custard Mel makes which makes you puke your gut out?" When Noah nodded his head, Ellie slapped her forehead and sat down on the couch beside Sebastian in grief.


    "Ahh I love Mel but that custard tastes like Devil. I mean if we could eat devil, it would definitely have the same taste and flavour like that custard." Ava would never forget the first time she tasted Melissa''s custard which she thinks is the best dessert in the whole world. Ava was forced to eat an entire bowl under Noah''s persuasion and begging.


    "We should force Mel to taste that custard so that she figures out what she is doing wrong," Owen suggested.


    "Mel is allergic to apples so that suggestion is a big no."


    Calvin frowned and asked, "Why on earth would she make something she is allergic to?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 34 - Its not that bad

    "Exactly my point, why would she do that? Doesn''t touching an apple give her rashes too?" Turning towards Noah, Owen added, "Why would you not stop your girlfriend from making something so dangerous?"


    "Mel thinks her apple custard is the most tasty dessert in the whole world and everyone loves it." Who better than Ellie knew how dangerous her so-called special dessert was? She had been tolerating it since high school.


    "So who is going to bring Mel out of the delusional shell she is living in?" Calvin asked.


    When everyone gave him a weird look, he added, "What? Someone has to tell her about it right?"


    Noah vigorously shook his head and frowned, "No way, we can''t do that. Mel feels special when we tell her how tasty her dessert is okay? How can we let her down? What about her feelings?"


    "Well, your girlfriends so-called feelings will give me food poisoning one day." Calvin hissed.


    Rubbing her stomach, Ava sighed, "Everytime I eat that weird apple thing, I feel like the devil is running in my stomach."


    "You people are exaggerating, I mean c''mon it''s not that bad." Noah tried to defend his girlfriend''s weird looking custard. Pointing at Sebastian, he added, "Seb likes it."


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and gasped. Looking at her boss who was sitting right beside her calmly sipping his wine in astonishment, she asked, "Really?"


    "It''s not that bad."


    Owen helplessly shook his head and sighed, "I always knew something was wrong with Seb but I am a hundred percent sure that everything is wrong about him."


    Shifting beside Sebastian, Ava wrapped her arms around him and said, "What are you talking about Owen? My brother eats boiled and bland food every f.u.c.k.i.n.g day so that weird looking dessert is like the taste of heaven for his taste buds."


    When Ava gave him a pleading look, Sebastian smiled and nodded his head.


    Squealing in excitement, Ava hugged him tightly. "Ahh thank you so much, you are my bestest brother."


    Owen frowned and gritted his teeth. "Hey, this is cheating Ava, you can''t always do this. You have to give us a chance as well."


    Sticking her tongue out, Ava hugged Sebastian tighter and grinned. "Perks of sharing the same blood with Sebastian and don''t forget one thing Owen, blood is thicker than water."


    Ellie who was feeling very lost in their conversation, couldn''t stop herself from asking, "What is happening here?"


    "It''s nothing, the Stewart siblings are bullying us once again." Owen said who was very pissed right now.


    When Ellie gave them a confused look, Calvin explained, "Let me elaborate what that means. Since Sebastian is the only one who likes the dessert amongst us, Ava always uses her little sister trump card and somehow persuades Sebastian to eat her share too."


    "Yes and we poor little souls have to eat everything off with a very genuine fake smile plastered in our faces."


    Ava pouted her lips and complained, "Hey, stop accusing me like this, it''s not my fault that Sebastian loves me way too much let me eat something that would make me sick later." Looking at Sebastian, she asked, "Right my handsome big brother."


    Patting her head, Sebastian smiled and nodded his head.


    Looking at Sebastian, Ellie''s lips curled upwards. How could someone like him be called heartless and robotic?


    ¡­.

 Chapter 35 - Lover boy

    It had only been a couple of days since she met Sebastian and she had already heard so many things about him from everyone around her. Everyone told her that he loved a robotic life, he was cold, heartless and so many other things. At first, Ellie genuinely believed everything that she had heard about him but after analyzing Sebastian personally, she noticed that he wasn''t as people described him to be. He wasn''t as cold and emotion deprived as he portrayed himself to be.


    Yes, may be he was a bit different than a normal man of his age but Ellie could feel that there was a deep reason behind his slightly different behavior. Why would anyone purposely want to live a robotic life and like being called out with different names?


    Ellie had been observing Sebastian and Ava''s relationship since morning and she could say that he treated his little sister quite well and played his big brother role very efficiently.


    She also did not miss the smile on his face whenever Ava was happy or excited about something.


    Was everyone blind to notice all of this or was she noticing her boss way too much than she should? Well, how could she not notice him? Her boss was way too handsome and dashing to be ignored.


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and slapped her forehead. What the hell was wrong with her? Was she thinking about her boss being handsome and dashing again?


    Looking at him, Ellie pouted her lips. Well, she wouldn''t deny the fact that he was worth the thought that was still lingering all over the head.


    When Sebastian noticed her stare, he turned towards her and asked, "Ms Miller, are you okay?"


    Startled by the sudden question, Ellie looked away and slapped her forehead. Did her boss just catch her staring at him?


    Slapping her forehead once again, she cursed herself, "Stupid Ellie."


    "Listen to me everyone, lets just pretend that we like it for the last time okay? I swear this is the last time and¡ª"


    Cutting Noah off, Calvin snapped, "You swore the same thing last time but aren''t we stuck here again? So what makes you think that we will believe you?"


    "Alright, dinner is ready."


    When Melissa called everyone, Ava glanced at the watch and sighed, "Hmm, can we wait for a bit? June should be here minute now."


    Glancing at his watch when Owen noticed that it was already 7 PM, he frowned, "Shouldn''t she be here by now? Why is she late?"


    "She has taken another part time job so her schedule is already super tight. You know how many emotional dialogues I had to throw at her to persuade her to join us today? Owen, you should thank me or prolly gift me something nice and expensive."


    "Why one more? Doesn''t she already have two?" Owen asked.


    Ava nodded her head and sighed, "Yeah, I told her not to take so much stress but she wouldn''t listen to me. She always says that she is fine but I can say that she is very stressed and worked up. My best friend and my brother, both of them are workaholics. Poor me."


    Owen was about to say something when Ava''s phone beeped.


    "Ah its June, she downstairs and¡ª"


    Before Ava could complete her sentence, Owen jogged his way out of the apartment.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Noah sighed, "Geez, another lover boy."


    Ellie chuckled and asked, "Another? Who is that first one?"


    "Ptfff obviously the first one is¡ª" Pointing at himself, Noah added, "Me."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 36 - Big bowl

    Resisting the strong urge to roll her eyes at him, Ellie sighed.


    "Dude, stop acting like a donkey."


    "Duh uh Cal, you better not use donkey to curse anyone otherwise Ellie will lash out at you." Sitting beside Noah, Melissa frowned and snatched the wine bottle from his hands.


    "Babe, I just finished off with my third glass."


    "And that is your limit for the day."


    Ignoring their rant over alcohol, Calvin asked, "What do you mean? Why would Ellie lash out at me?"


    "Ellie loves donkey, in fact, donkey is her favourite animal."


    Turning towards Ellie, Ava asked, "Donkey? Seriously? Out of so many different kinds of beautiful animals, your favorite animal is a donkey?"


    Ellie vigorously nodded her head and said, "Yes, donkeys are cute. Don''t you all find donkeys cute? I mean what is there not cute about them? His pointed ears, cute cutler face, beautiful grey colour and-"


    Cutting her off Noah added, "Ant sized brain, yup very cute."


    "Oh come on, stop shaming an innocent animal. So what if he is a little less intelligent than the other animals? But that doesn''t mean we should place him at the bottom."


    Looking at each other when Calvin and Noah started laughing out loud, Ava and Melissa couldn''t stop themselves too.


    Rolling her eyes at them, Ellie added, "Fine laugh but donkeys are cute no matter what you people say."


    Looking at Ellie who was grumpily sitting with her hands crossed in her chest, Sebastian chuckled. He had to agree that she was slightly different than all the assistants he had worked with.


    "Oh good lord, look you also made Sebastian laugh."


    Wiping his tears away, Calvin added, "Okay, that was really very funny."


    Just then, June and Owen arrived.


    Looking at them, Calvin grinned. "Ahh there he is, our second lover boy."


    Awkwardly scratching his forehead, Owen cheekily smiled.


    "Ahh June, you are finally here." Ava excitedly got up and gave her best friend a tight hug.


    "Sorry, I was stuck at work."


    "Ava already told us about your new job, where is it?" Melissa asked.


    "It''s just a few blocks away from the place I work at noon."


    "Seb will you please move your ass a little bit and make some room for us?" Ava asked.


    When Sebastian shifted towards her, Ellie straightened her back and her body turned stiff.


    Looking at him, she widened her eyes in shock. Sebastian Stewart looked even more handsome and dashing from his side profile. His distinct and dashing jawline made him look even more handsome. His perfect lashes made her jealous and his evenly shaped brows made her wonder if he also gets it done every two weeks.


    Turning towards her when Sebastian raised his brows, Ellie looked away to the other side.


    Sticking her tongue out, she cursed herself for getting caught twice. He will not think of her as a pervert right?


    "Alright, dinner is ready."


    ¡­..


    Rubbing his stomach, Calvin sighed, "I always promise myself not to overeat but I always end up eating more than I should."


    "I know right?" Holding her stomach, Ava added, "I gotta do a few extra scrunches tomorrow while working out."


    "I have to say Mel, your cooking is fantastic but your dessert is¡ª"


    Cutting Owen off, Noah coughed vigorously.


    When June kicked Owen and narrowed her eyes, he cleared his throat and added, "But your dessert is so much better. Ahh I cannot wait to have that delicious apple custard."


    "Really?" Melissa asked.


    Owen vigorously nodded his head and added, "Yes, in fact, we all were talking about it and Noah said that he will have two big bowls today. In fact , even Calvin wanted a big bowl today."


    Ignoring everyone''s threatening glare, Owen added, "Ahh do something, get a big bowl for everyone."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 37 - Decoration

    Everyone widened their eyes in shock and were mentally cruising Owen for blabbering more than needed. How on earth would they manage to eat an entire bowl of that gruesome dessert which tasted like devil?


    Clutching onto her stomach when Ava poked Sebastian arms, he sighed and patted her hand.


    Grinning from ear to ear, Ava rubbed her stomach and gave everyone a victorious smile.


    Melissa excitedly got up and rushed towards the kitchen. "Ahh I''ll go and get the dessert and utensils for us."


    After she entered the kitchen, Calvin gritted his teeth at Owen. "You are gonna regret this so bad Owen and you are gonna pay for this too."


    "Dude, why would you do something like that? A big bowl? Like seriously?" Having a small bowl of that dessert made his ass sweat, Noah wondered how he would manage to eat a big bowl of it.


    Rubbing her stomach, Ellie sighed, "I am pukish already, I don''t think so I''ll be able to bear with the smell of that custard."


    "Okay just bear with it this time okay? I know it''s tough but we have to do this for Mel." Noah didn''t want Melissa to feel sad or disappointed. He knew how proud and excited she was off her special dessert. Melissa felt extremely happy when everyone praised her dessert and this is why Noah could never convince himself from telling her the truth. So he decided to torture himself than hurt her feelings.


    Just then, Melissa brought her special dessert out and placed it on the table. "Let me get the utensils."


    "Mel, do you want any help?" Ellie asked.


    "I am okay, you can relax."


    Looking at the thing he hated the most at the moment, Calvin gritted his teeth, "Huh, look at the piece of devil." Only if he could throw the entire thing out of the building or flush it down somewhere.


    Placing his hand on his head, Owen asked, "Am I going crazy or this dessert really has a pair of eyes, nose and mouth?"


    Peeping at the custard, June pouted her lips, "I can see it too."


    "What the f.u.c.k is that? Decoration?" Owen asked.


    "I guess so."


    "Hmm, why is this looking more devilish now?" Cupping her cheeks, Ava added, "Oh my God, this dessert is going to haunt me for days."


    "Hey Mel, I think you dropped black olives on the dessert." Calvin shouted.


    "That isn''t a mistake, it''s decoration. I did that to make it look more good and beautiful." Melissa said.


    "Geez I wish you would''ve worked on the flavour more than the decoration." Calvin murmured.


    Placing the utensils down, Melissa asked, "What did you say?"


    "Nothing."


    After serving everyone a portion, Melissa sat down beside Noah. "Come on, taste it and tell me how it is."


    Forcing themselves to take a bite, everyone faked a smile and m.o.a.n.


    "Wow, it''s so delicious."


    "Hmmm, better than the last time."


    "Ahh this is always the best dessert."


    Melissa cheekily smiled and said, "Ahh you people praise me too much."


    "Hmm, honey can I get some maple syrup to go with this?" Noah asked.


    "Yeah sure, I''ll go get it."


    After Melissa left, Calvin wiped his tongue with the napkin and frowned, "Why do I feel like she is getting worse each time she makes this?"


    "Well, at least someone is enjoying it." Pointing at Sebastian who was silently eating Ava''s portion after completing his, Owen added, "Hey Seb, why don''t you have my share too?"


    "Duh uh since your tongue touched that dessert, Sebastian is never going to eat it." Ava said.


    Owen sighed and forced another spoonful of custard into his mouth.


    After finishing Ava''s portion too, Sebastian wiped his mouth and sighed. Rubbing his stomach, he frowned. He ate too much today.


    Looking around when he saw Ellie struggling with the dessert, he frowned deeper. Why would she force herself to eat it if she didn''t want to?


    After taking a bite when Ellie excused her to the washroom, Sebastian thought for a while before exchanging his empty plate with hers.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 38 - Reward

    When Ellie came back, she widened her eyes in shock when an empty bowl greeted her. Lifting the bowl, she frowned and started looking around for her custard.


    "Woah El, you already finished yours?" Melissa asked.


    Giving her a weak smile, Ellie nodded her head but she couldn''t stop thinking about the missing custard. She clearly remembered that the bowl still had a lot of it. There was no way she actually ate everything without even realizing that she did.


    "Hey Seb, is that your third bowl?" Owen asked.


    Looking at her brother, Ava slapped her forehead and murmured, "Seriously Seb? A third bowl? Do you want to die? You just two big bowls of that and now third?"


    Looking at the blue bowl Sebastian was quietly eating the custard from, Ellie widened her in shock. When she realized that the bowl she was holding was yellow in colour, she gasped. She clearly remembered taking a blue bowl because that was her favorite colour and there was one bowl for each colour. So does that mean Sebastian was actually eating from her bowl?


    Keeping the bowl down, Ellie helplessly shook her head. How is that even possible? Why on earth would Sebastian exchange their bowls? Why would he take all the trouble to eat the same dessert for the third time?


    When Sebastian saw Ellie''s shocked expression, he lowered his head and kept on eating the third bowl of the gruesome dessert. He had no idea why he swapped his empty bowl with her. He had no idea why he was okay eating with the same spoon and bowl she had eaten from. He did what his instincts told him to. His hands automatically swapped the bowls and here he was about to finish it off too.


    After forcing themselves to eat the entire thing, everyone breathed a sigh of relief.


    "So how was it?" Melissa asked.


    "Damn nice babe it was delicious¡ª" pulling her into his embrace, Noah gave her a peck on her lips, "Just like you."


    "Aww my baby." Hooking her arms around his neck, Melissa pressed her lips on his.


    Seeing them kiss each other, Calvin rolled his eyes. "Great, after eating this piece of devil, Noah is at least getting a kiss but what about us?"


    "I know right?" Wiping his sweat away, Owen added, "I feel like walking out of a battlefield victoriously and yet no one to kiss and reward me."


    Just then June leaned towards him and kissed him on his cheeks. "You did great."


    Owen widened his eyes in shock and blushed. Touching the cheek he just received his reward on, he jumped in excitement.


    Looking at Owen who was excitedly jumping around, Calvin frowned, "Great, even he gets a reward but what about me?"


    "Ahh come here, let me give you your reward." Leaning towards him, Ava slapped his cheeks and ran away.


    Slamming the table, Calvin gritted his teeth and shouted, "Ava Stewart, you are so dead." Before rushing after her.


    "So do we have a new couple amongst us now?" Melissa asked.


    Wrapping his arms around June, Owen grinned, "We will let you all know very soon."


    ...


    "Ah no stop." Ava shouted.


    Grabbing her waist, Calvin pulled her into his embrace. "Try and run away now."


    Ava stopped struggling when she felt his warm breath behind her ear. She gasped when he tightened his grip around her waist.


    Burying his face on her neck, Calvin took a deep breath. "Stop me Ava because if you don''t, I might do something which will never allow us to be just friends in the future."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 39 - Soft:tender:sweet

    He wanted her to stop him but at the same time he didn''t want to stop. Calvin was feeling something that he had never felt before.


    Why was he getting attracted to her? Though he had never thought of her as his sister, he had also never expected that one day he would be stuck in such an awkward yet wonderful and pleasing situation with her.


    He knew where things were heading to but he couldn''t help it. The sensation and the ticklish feeling he felt in his heart when he was with her was so satisfying and was making him feel so good.


    Ava on the other hand was stuck in the same dilemma. She didn''t want to stop him but she also knew this shouldn''t happen. Though she shared a very close relationship with Calvin but she had never expected to feel something like this for him.


    The warmth of his arms around her waist and his soft lips pressed against her nape was making her go crazy. The feeling of being in his arms was making her giddy.


    Ava had no idea where this would lead to and how they would deal with it later but she decided to give in for once.


    When she flipped over and buried her head on his chest, the last string of willpower which was stopping him from taking things further crumbled down.


    Without thinking about the consequences, he pinned her against the nearby wall and crashed his lips against hers.


    Hooking her arms around his neck, Ava m.o.a.ned when his tongue met hers.


    Calvin''s body tightened and he deepened the kiss when she interlaced her fingers on his hair. He hated when someone touched his hair but when she was the one doing it, why was he feeling more giddy.


    Her lips were soft, tender and sweet. He had kissed many women in the past but she was undoubtedly the most special and sweetest he had ever had. Ava had always been the most special woman in his life and now she was also the only woman in his heart.


    His movements were light, soft yet so passionate and Ava couldn''t get enough of his kisses. She had no idea what would happen next and she didn''t wanna think about it. She just wanted to live and enjoy the feeling of being kissed by Calvin Lewis.


    ¡­..


    Dining area.


    Looking at Sebastian who was purposely ignoring her gaze, Ellie chuckled. He was looking like a kid who had been caught red-handed doing something awful and now he didn''t want to get caught.


    He looked so adorable and attractive that Ellie didnt wanna take her eyes off him. Her boss just saved her from eating something that would definitely force her to puke later. Sebastian was actually her knight in shining armour, her hero.


    "I know he is handsome but you should really stop staring at him because if you don''t, he will figure it out."


    "What? I am not staring at him."


    "Yeah, I can see that." Looking at Sebastian, June added, "I saw what he did there."


    "Did what?" Ellie asked.


    "That bowl swapping thing. At first I thought I was seeing things because you know, its brother Seb and he has his own rules of not eating what has been already touched but when he started eating out of your bowl, I was shocked."


    Ellie sighed and helplessly shook her head. "I don''t know why he did that."


    June shrugged her shoulders and added, "Well, even I don''t know why he did that but I think you should at least thank him."


    "You kidding me? He is my boss, what am I supposed to tell him? Hey boss, thank you for eating out of the bowl which already had my saliva in it."


    "You are funny. Oh by the way, I am June Morris."


    "Ellie Miller and congratulations for that, I mean you and Owen."


    June smiled and said, "Thank you so much, so are you new here?"


    "Ahh yes, it''s only been a week."


    "Then we should hang out when you are free. Ava and I can show you around."


    Ellie smiled and said, "Yeah sure, I would love to hang out with you guys."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 40 - Push

    Stewart International Group


    "Good morning Patricia."


    "Good morning El, so how was it?"


    "How was what?" Ellie asked.


    "The dinner party, was it fun?"


    "Yeah, we had fun. Mel prepared a lovely dinner for us and a very tasty dessert."


    "The apple custard?"


    When Ellie nodded her head, Patricia closed her eyes and groaned in frustration. "Everytime I think about it, I feel nauseous."


    "Are you a victim too?" Ellie asked.


    She vigorously nodded her head and answered, "Don''t remind me. She bought me a whole big bowl of it and I couldn''t say no."


    Elli chuckled and helplessly shook her head. "Well, all of us suffered a lot yesterday too."


    "Hmmm, so did Sebastian enjoy the party too?" Patricia asked.


    "I am sure he did, we had a really good time. I never expected their group to be so jolly and noisy." Picking up a paper from the desk, Ellie asked, "Is this boss''s schedule for the day?"


    "Uh huh, made some slight changes."


    "Changes? Everything looks pretty much the same to me. Sometimes I really wonder how he manages to follow the same schedule everyday. I mean I get bored if I eat the same food twice or may thrice, except for cup noodles though because I love them. Anyway, don''t you think the boss should change his schedule a bit?" Ellie asked.


    "Yes and you know who can help him with that?" When she gave her a confused look, Patricia added, "You, you can help him change his schedule."


    "What? Me? I don''t think so he will like it if I make any changes." Ellie knew how strict and punctual Sebastian was for his schedule. She didn''t want to make any kind of changes that would piss him off.


    "Well, if you don''t start or take an initiative, he will never volunteer to change them. You know how Sebastian is right? I mean, why do you think i was I was so shocked and horrified when he left office early yesterday?" Without waiting for Ellie''s reply Patricia added, "It''s because that has never happened. It''s as rare as snowing in summer."


    "But that can never happen."


    "Exactly my point, so imagine how you would feel if that really happens? Look El, I know it''s not easy to work with him but Sebastian is not as cold and bad he portrays himself as. He just needs a push you know, like yesterday. I am very sure that he decided to attend the party because he didn''t want you to miss it. Well, that is still very unusual of him because Sebastian doesn''t think or care about anyone but still, you were the reason why he pushed himself out of his office before time."


    When Ellie gave her confused look, Patricia added, "What I mean is that you should give Sebastian that push by making changes in his schedule. Make him get used to those changes slowly."


    "Wait, why me?" Ellie asked.


    "Apart from the fact that you are his assistant, I think you can only bring those changes in his life." Patricia was very sure that Ellie could teach Sebastian how to live and enjoy his life. And lead him to the world of happiness.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie said, "But boss strictly told me not to mess up with his schedule."


    "Sebastian says many things but that doesn''t mean you shouldn''t try. I mean, don''t you think it''s worth a shot? We can at least try right?" Patricia asked.


    Thinking for quite some time, Ellie sighed, "Alright, I''ll think about it."


    Grabbing Ellie''s hand, Patricia said, "Sebastian needs help El. In the process of working hard and taking the company to where it is now, he has lost himself completely."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 41 - Uneasy and restless

    Inside Ellie''s office.


    Immersed in a very deep thought, Ellie kept on staring at Sebastian''s schedule for a very long time.


    Picking up her pen, she started fiddling with it, still not sure about the changes that she was planning to enforce in his schedule. But would a little change here and there hurt?


    Wasn''t a change healthy and needed to live a happy life? And who wouldn''t like or want a little change in his or her life?


    Concluding that maybe Sebastian really does need a push, Ellie took a deep breath and started making changes in his schedule for good.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s office.


    "What are you all doing here early in the morning?"


    "We are planning a trip to Hawaii next month so we are here to discuss the details." Noah informed.


    "Oh not next month, I just called Owen and he said that he has an important set of meetings next month so he won''t be available but he is free the following month." Ava said.


    "Hmm, okay then let''s plan everything accordingly."


    Melissa squealed in excitement and excitedly exclaimed, "Ahh this is going to be so fun."


    Ignoring his overly excited friends, Sebastian called Ellie inside the office.


    "We have a meeting in five, is everything ready?"


    "All the meetings will start after 10:30." Ellie informed him before passing him the new schedule. It took her an hour to make some big and small changes in his existing super tight schedule. She purposely pushed all the meetings after 10:30 because she wanted Sebastian to relax and not get stressed early in the morning. She had also added small breaks in between all the meetings because she didn''t want him to get stressed.


    "Why?" Taking a look at the schedule, Sebastian frowned when he realised that it had been tampered.


    "Who did this?" He asked.


    "I made those changes today in the morning." Ellie was about to explain why she did that when Sebastian crumpled the paper and tossed it away.


    Just then Patricia entered the room along with a set of files.


    "Who told you or gave you the permission to mess up with my schedule?" Sebastian shouted.


    Patricia was about to say something when Ellie grabbed her hand and stopped her from saying anything.


    "Well, I thought¡ª"


    Cutting Ellie off, Sebastian shouted, "I did not hire you to think Ms Miller, you just do what you are told to. Now I want you to get out of here and get everything back on track."


    "I¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian shouted, "Don''t say anything and get out of here."


    Ellie nodded her head and apologized before leaving.


    "El wait," Melissa shouted before rushing after her.


    "Seriously Seb?" Noah sighed and helplessly shook his head before leaving.


    "You surely know how to spoil everyone''s mood Sebastian." Ava added before walking out along with Noah.


    Placing the files on his desk, Patricia lowered her and followed them behind.


    Massaging his forehead, Sebastian sighed and sat down on his chair.


    ¡­..


    "Ah thank God you are finally here El, I am so sorry for that I¡ª"


    Cutting Patricia off, Ellie said, "It''s alright Pat, no one knew this would happen."


    "But I was the one who asked you to do it."


    "The final call was mine so you don''t have to feel guilty about it." Placing a bunch of papers on the desk, Ellie added, "I have already rearranged everything and it''s back to normal now. These are papers that need the boss'' signature. I have already circled the important points with pencil so it will be easier for him to find them."


    "Hmm, why are you giving this to me? Oh please don''t tell me you are quitting."


    "Well, unfortunately I am not but I think I need to take some time off and clear my head so I would like to use my three days paid leave starting today." She had been scolded by her previous boss too and she had never taken it seriously but when Sebastian lashed out at her, she felt really very bad. She had been feeling restless and uneasy since then so she decided to wrap up everything and take a short break.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 42 - Good listener

    "Why don''t you give it to him?" Patricia asked.


    "I don''t want to show up in front of him and piss him more. Anyway, I feel like he doesn''t want to see me anymore so I want you to pass this on." Ellie didn''t understand why she didn''t feel like seeing him. Was it really because she didn''t want to piss him off or was it because she was way too hurt and pissed.


    Patricia sighed and nodded her head, "I''ll surely pass this on and I''ll take care of the leave thing. You just go home and relax okay? I''ll manage everything here."


    Ellie smiled and nodded her head.


    After she left, Patricia gathered everything and made her way towards Sebastian''s office.


    ¡­..


    Nearby park.


    In order to clear her head, Ellie decided to walk in a nearby park before hailing a cab. She wanted to divert her mind from the bossy and mean Sebastian but all she could think about was him and his angry face.


    Great, not only did he piss her off and made her feel super bad but was also forcing her to think about him.


    Sitting down on a nearby bench with her arms crossed, Ellie kept on grumbling for a long time.


    "You''ve been doing that for the last five minutes little woman, I can say that someone has pissed you off."


    Startled by the sudden interruption, Ellie jerked her head towards the old man who was sitting right next to her.


    Patting her chest, Ellie sighed, "You scared me."


    "You scared me with that frowned and grumbling too."


    "I am so sorry, I am just pissed I guess."


    The old man chuckled and said, "I may sound nosy but I happen to have lots of free time today so let''s hear who pissed you off."


    "Are you sure? I have a habit of rambling alot."


    "And I happen to be a very good listener because I am a husband."


    Ellie chuckled and helplessly shook her head, "That is a good punch line."


    "Oh no honey, that is a fact. If you aren''t a good listener then you are a bad husband. Anyway, so tell me what is it?" The old man asked.


    Crossing her arm in the front, she frowned and asked, "How difficult is it to bring slight changes in your life? I mean aren''t slight changes good and healthy? Here I am trying to add some color into his bland life and there he is shouting at me and asking me to get out. You know how long it took me to fix his schedule?"


    When the old man shook his head, she added, "Sixty minutes, yes, a whole hour and what does he do? Crumples it and tosses it inside the dustbin. Like seriously? How can he be so mean?" Ellie was now more pissed than hurt. The more she thought about it, she felt even more angry. She was super mad at Sebastian.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, the old man sighed, "Okay, so I''ll assume you are mad at your boyfriend for¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "He isn''t my boyfriend, he is my boss, my stupid, meanie, arrogant and annoying boss."


    When the old man chuckled, she glared at him and retorted, "Thank you so much because your chuckle is really soothing my anger."


    "Ahh little woman, you surely have a really bad temper but its funny." When Ellie gave him a confused look, the old man added, "I mean why would anyone get so mad when their boss shouts at them? Unless this is your first job and this is the first time someone has lashed out at you when you are at work. But if it isn''t, I don''t see why you are so pissed that you are sitting in this park at 11am instead of working."


    Pausing for a while, he added, "Isn''t getting lashed out by bosses pretty normal? I mean, all bosses do is lash out, scream and shout. But since this is affecting you so much, maybe you like your boss."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 43 - Disappointed and frustrated

    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and shouted, "What? No I dont and where did that come from?"


    "No where, it was just a thought. So if it''s not like that then why are you stressing over it? Just let it. Maybe he didn''t like the changes you made or maybe he wasn''t ready for the changes to be implemented."


    "But that was for his own good and ¡ª"


    Cutting her off, the old man said, "Okay, so from tomorrow onward you need to wake up at five and come to his park. We will jog together and then do Yoga."


    "I cannot wake up early."


    "Do you have any idea how beneficial a morning walk and yoga is?"


    Ellie vigorously shook her head and retorted, "But I cannot wake up so early, it''s something that I cannot do even if I want to."


    "But I am this for your own good little woman."


    "But¡ª" Stopping midway, Ellie turned towards the old man and chuckled, "Okay, that was a good one."


    "So you see, you cannot force someone to change something they are used to unless they want to. If the willingness is lacking then there is nothing you can do. Look I don''t know what kind of a boss you have and what you are so eager to change but I am talking in general because it''s the same for everyone."


    Looking at the old man, Ellie smiled, "You aren''t just a good listener, you are a good talker too."


    "Well, I''ll take that as a compliment."


    "You should because it is a compliment."


    "Alright little woman, thank you for the compliment."


    Stretching her hands towards him for a shake, she smiled, "Ellie Miller."


    Taking her hand, the old man said, "Markus."


    "It''s a pleasure meeting you Markus."


    "Same here little woman."


    ¡­..


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian''s office.


    Fiddling with his pen, Sebastian kept glancing at the door expecting that Ellie would enter his office for a really long time. He had no idea why he was expecting to see her after lashing out at her early in the morning but he still wished to see her and he had no idea why he was feeling that way.


    He would be lying if he said that he wasn''t mad for what had happened in the morning anymore. He was, he was still super mad but he didn''t understand what exactly was he mad at.


    Was he mad because Ellie f.u.c.k.i.e.d up his schedule or because he mercilessly lashed out at her and yelled at her to step out of his office.


    Running his fingers through his hair, Sebastian sighed. He had shouted at multiple employees and assistants but he has never felt this bad and horrible even after firing them.


    Just then someone knocked at the door. Thinking that it was Ellie, he quickly straightened his suit and ran his fingers through his hair before pretending to read the doc.u.ment which was lying on his desk untouched. But when Patricia entered the office along with a stack of files, he felt very disappointed and frustrated.


    Placing them on his desk, Patricia pulled out a paper and shoved it towards him, "This is your old schedule and these are the files that need your signature. Ellie said that she has already circled the important points so it will be easier for you."


    "Hmmm, why didn''t she bring these here?" Sebastian asked.


    "Ellie left."


    For some odd reason, Sebastian''s heart pricked a little and a weird sensation started spreading all over his body making him feel numb and tortured. "Oh so did she submit the resignation too?"


    "She is on her first three days paid-leave but may be if you shout at her louder next time, I''ll have to bring her resignation over for your signature and not these files."


    ¡­...

 Chapter 44 - Relieved

    Sebastian somewhat felt very relieved when Patricia told him that she had only taken a leave. But why would she take a leave? Wasn''t she supposed to work alongside him all the time?


    "Who approved her leave?" Sebastian asked.


    "That is an official paid-leave all new employees get when they join. She wanted to use it later but she decided to use it starting today. Not that you care boss but Ellie looked very upset." Placing a hand on the desk, Patricia sighed, "I was the one who suggested Ellie to make changes in your schedule because I thought it would be nice for you and she also agreed with me because she wanted to help you. In fact, we both wanted to help you but who would''ve thought that you would blow up and lash out at her."


    "Why would you ask her to do that? Patricia you know that I don''t like it when someone¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "Yes yes, I know but after you left the office early last night, I thought you just needed a push to change or at least take a step out of your messy life. Ellie was planning to give you that push and help you out but what did you do? You pushed her out of your office."


    Pausing for a while, Patricia sighed, "Okay, I guess I was wrong and poor Ellie had to face the big boss'' rage because of the stupid idea I fed her with early in the morning. I am really very sorry for intruding and messing up with your personal affairs. When Ellie comes back, I''ll ask her not to bother with anything and just do what she is supposed to."


    Glancing at her watch, Patricia added, "You have a meeting with the marketing department in five. Noah is handling the execution department so you have to handle the marketing." Before walking out of the office.


    ¡­..


    Lewis International Group.


    Fixing her hair for God knows how many times, Ava finally stepped out of her car and made her way towards the building. She wanted to meet Calvin and talk to him about yesterday.


    After being interrupted by Owen yesterday, things turned very awkward and they did not get a chance to talk about it.


    Calvin did call her a couple of times in the morning but she missed the call because she was in Sebastian''s office. She did not call him back but decided to pay him a surprise visit instead.


    "Hey Mani, where is Calvin?" Ava asked Calvin''s assistant.


    Glancing at her watch, Mani said, "Boss'' meeting is almost over and he will be in his office any minute now."


    "Okay then, I''ll wait for him inside."


    "Do you want anything Ms Stewart?" Mani asked.


    Ava thought for a while and asked, "Can I get a cup of lukewarm water?"


    "Ya sure, I''ll get it for you."


    "Thank you Mani, you are the best." Ava said before punching in the code to unlock Calvin''s office.


    ¡­.


    Inside the office.


    Walking towards his desk, Ava sat down on his chair before brushing her fingers through his blazer.


    Calvin had always been her big brother''s annoying friend who never missed a chance to tease and irritate her. Though they had always been together when they were young, she never felt so differently about home but after what happened yesterday, she couldn''t take Calvin out of her mind.


    She couldn''t take that kiss, his gentleness and the way he embraced her out of her mind. She had started seeing him in a very different light which made her feel giddy and scared at the same time.


    Ava knew Calvin''s character very well. She knew that he wasn''t a relationship kind of a person. Everyone knew that Calvin Lewis hated commitments and how he repelled himself from getting himself involved in a serious relationship. He never had a serious girlfriend but had multiple flings instead and this is what Ava was scared of.


    What if she is the only one hoping for something to happen between them but he had already moved on? What if the moment they shared was ''Just a kiss'' moment for him?


    ¡­...

 Chapter 45 - Saggy b.o.o.b.s

    Thinking about it for quite some time, Ava grabbed her bag and decided to leave. She didn''t want to make a fool of herself and look desperate.


    Stopping midway, she sat down again. If he wasn''t interested and that kiss meant nothing to him, why did he call her?


    Grabbing her hair, Ava groaned in frustration. Her mind was in a mess with Calvin and the passionate kiss and no matter how much she tried, she couldn''t take him off her head.


    Just then a loud ''CLICK'' followed by Calvin groan sent chills down Ava''s spine and she ended up squatting down. She then slapped her forehead and crawled her way under his desk, wondering why would she hide. She sighed and was about to get up when she heard a woman''s voice which made her whole body turn numb. Calvin had brought a woman over to his office and Ava knew what that meant.


    Great, here she was convincing herself that she might not be a fling or just a random woman for him and there he was bringing his chick over to his office to get laid.


    She was more pissed and mad than upset. She was mad at him for bringing another woman over the very next day they had kissed but she was more mad at herself for expecting anything from the tagged womanizer Calvin Lewis. Expectations really do hurt a lot.


    Promising herself to not expect anything from anyone in the future, Ava crossed her legs and sighed before fanning herself.


    Not wanting to hear their l.u.s.tful m.o.a.ns and groans, Ava slowly unzipped her bag and started looking for her earphones.


    Just then, a glass shattering sound startled her.


    "I told you not to touch me." Calvin shouted.


    The woman gasped and widened her eyes in shock. "What the hell is wrong with you Calvin? That could''ve hit me and I would''ve died."


    Clenching his hand into a fist, he gritted his teeth, "Try to touch me one more time and I''ll make sure that you don''t walk out of this office in one piece."


    "I don''t understand, wasn''t this scheduled a week ago? We had planned on this so how can you blow up and turn me down." The woman asked.


    "That was a week ago Steffi, things are different now and I don''t want any woman to touch me alright? So just get the hell out of here and don''t show yourself ever again."


    Picking up her top from the floor which she had taken off to seduce Calvin when he turned her down thrice and asked her to leave before they entered his office, she shouted, "My name is Stephanie not Steffi."


    "Do you think I give a damn about what your name is? Just get the hell out of here."


    Stephanie frowned and asked, "I don''t understand, what the hell is wrong with you today? I strip myself n.a.k.e.d in front of you and you are turning me down? You do know that there are several men dying to be with me right? Are you trying to say my appearance and approach doesn''t excite you?"


    Calvin frowned deeper and snapped, "You are nothing in front of her okay? And¡ª" pointing towards his little brother in between his legs, he added, "Do you see any boner? No right? So isn''t this enough for you to take your saggy b.o.o.b.s out of my sight?"


    Stephanie gritted her teeth and retorted, "My b.o.o.b.s are not saggy." She then grabbed her bag and barged out of his office.


    After making sure that she was out of sight, he crashed on the couch and massaged his forehead before letting out a frustrated sigh. He was already in a very bad mood because Ava did not receive his call in the morning nor replied to his messages when Stephanie came looking for him in his office.


    After the sweet yet passionate incident with Ava yesterday at Naoh''s place, nothing was the same for Calvin. When Ava was in his arms, he felt complete and accomplished and he had never felt so great with anyone else.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 46 - Boner problem

    Calvin hated commitments and had never been in a serious relationship with anyone. He had never been with a woman more than once but for some odd reason, he wanted to be with Ava and not just once, he was actually thinking of having a long time thing with her. He was willing to stay committed to her, for them but he had no idea whether she was willing to be with a womanizer like him.


    Would she believe him if he said that he actually wanted to change and he genuinely wanted to be with her? Would she believe him if he said that he had always seen her in a different light and she was not just a fling for him? Would she give him a chance?


    Kicking the table right in front of him out of frustration, Calvin groaned. Why would she? Why would she believe someone like him? And not just her, why would anyone believe that Calvin Lewis wanted to change for good and stop womanizing for a woman who was more precious and important to him than anybody else?


    No wonder Ava ignored his calls, she might''ve completely shrugged him off thinking he was a jerk who had taken advantage of her.


    Just then Mani, Calvin''s assistant entered the office along with a glass of lukewarm water.


    Placing the glass on the take, Mani was about to leave when Calvin stopped her. "Why would you bring me lukewarm water? You know I don''t like it."


    "Hmm boss that isn''t for you, it''s for Ms Stewart. "


    He frowned and asked, "Ava?" When Mani nodded her head, he added, "Ava was here?"


    "Ms Stewart arrived when you were in your meeting. She said that she will wait for you inside your office and she also asked me to get some lukewarm water for her."


    Just then a loud ''BANG'' startled them.


    Gesturing Mani to leave, Calvin made his way towards his desk.


    Squatting down, he sighed when he saw Ava sitting under his desk, rubbing her head which she had accidentally hit against the desk.


    Stretching his hands towards her, he carefully helped her out.


    Making her sit on his chair, he called Mani and asked her to get an ice pack.


    "Let me see if there is any bump." Checking out the part she had been continuously rubbing, he asked, "Why would you hide like that?"


    "I panicked when I you entered the office along with a woman and I didnt want to be seen so¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Calvin asked, " Why didn''t you receive my calls in the morning?"


    "I was with Sebastian and Noah in the morning when you called. I purposely did not answer your calls because I wanted to pay you a surprise visit but who would''ve thought that I would get a surprise instead."


    When Ava chuckled, he sighed, "Right right, laugh and make fun of me."


    She vigorously shook her head and pouted her lips. "I am not laughing, in fact¡ª" wrapping her arms around his waist, she added, "I feel honoured that I got this legendary chance of witnessing the great Calvin Lewis turning a hot woman down and also savagely shaming her b.o.o.b.s. Oh my God, how lucky am I?"


    Caressing her cheeks with his thumb, Calvin asked, "You do know why I did that right?"


    Ava vigorously nodded her head and said, "Uh huh but don''t worry, I won''t tell anyone about your boner problem."


    Tickling her stomach, he said, "Oh is it? And I will make sure that the tickling monster inside me doesn''t let you off."


    Pushing him away, Ava squealed and ran away while Calvin chased her behind.


    ¡­.


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian office.


    Glancing at the watch, Sebastian sighed and tossed the doc.u.ments that he was struggling to read since his afternoon meeting ended.


    He had so many pending doc.u.ments to read and approve but all he could think off was Ellie and her three days damn leave.


    Shaking his legs impatiently and massaging his forehead, he slammed his desk in frustration. He didn''t want to admit it but Ellie''s absence was bugging him and he being the reason behind her absence was making him curse himself.


    After a few seconds, he closed his laptop, grabbed his blazer and left his office.


    ¡­..


    Ground floor.


    Looking at the empty office, Sebastian frowned. "Patricia, where are the employees? Why did they leave so early? It''s not even five yet."


    "Did you forget that there is a cyclone hitting our area in a couple of hours so we had let them leave early today? In fact, you were the one who approved it. You should go home early today as well, the cyclone seems to be a bad one."


    "Alright."


    Tapping his fingers on the desk when Sebastian kept on looking around, Patricia asked, "Do you want something boss?"


    "Yeah, can I see Ellie Miller''s form?" Sebastian asked.


    "Sure." Taking out her form, she asked, "Do you need anything else?"


    Looking at the form, Sebastian frowned, "Why isn''t her address mentioned here?"


    Patricia raised her eyebrows and said, "The address is right there."


    "No, I mean her local address."


    "And why do you want her address?" She asked.


    "No specific reason, I just wanted to know." There was no way he would tell Patricia why he wanted her address.


    "Hmmm, It''s not mentioned in the form but I do know where she stays. "


    "Where does she stay?"


    Writing down her address in a piece of paper, Patricia added, "I hope you aren''t going there to vent your left over anger and frustration on her."


    Without saying anything, he shoved the paper inside his pocket and rushed out of the building.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 47 - Flowers

    Taking the keys from the chauffeur''s hand, Sebastian asked him to leave before hopping into the driver''s.


    Tapping his fingers on the steering wheel, he thought for a while before fishing out his phone from his pocket and opening the browser.


    [Apologizing a woman for the first time]


    Scrolling through the list of options, Sebastian decided to go with the third one which said that a bouquet of flowers always helped in soothing a woman''s anger.


    Tossing his phone aside, he frowned. Why the hell would he even think of buying her flowers? Was it even necessary? Why was he even going to her place personally to apologize to her? Was it necessary?


    Shrugging his thoughts off, he started the engine and drove off.


    ¡­..


    Calvin''s office.


    "I think there is a bump." Calvin frowned and kept on pressing the ice pack on the top of her head.


    "It''s alright, it isn''t that bad."


    "How can you say it''s not bad? There is a bump right there and I can feel it Ava."


    Pouting her lips, she wrapped her arms around his waist. "You sound like Sebastian and stop scolding me like everyone does."


    Placing the ice pack on the table, he wrapped his arms around her and pressed his lips in between her brows.


    "Cal"


    "Hmm"


    "Why did you turn that woman down?"


    Caressing the side of her arm, he sighed, "I don''t know." When Ava gave him a confused look, he added, "Fine, I didn''t want any other woman to touch me, it didn''t feel right."


    "But you are letting me touch you."


    Caressing her cheeks, he pressed their forehead together. "Because you aren''t any other woman, you are special Ava."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he added, "Look I know it may sound a bit weird and crazy but I want stop womanizing and be a one woman man. Like you know how I dont like commitments and relationsh.i.p.s right?" When she nodded her head, he continued, "But now I want to try it, I want to stay committed to you. I dont know how far this will go but I want this to last, I want to be with you and I want us to last."


    Without waiting fir his reply, Calvin chuckled and helplessly shook his head, "I know you must be finding this funny and I understand. I mean, why would anyone believe that a womanizer like me wants to change? It''s so unbelievable and unrealistic."


    Cupping his face, Ava vigorously shook her head. "I would never think of you that way Calvin."


    "You believe in me?" He asked.


    "Well, I am not gonna lie to you but when I entered this office, I still had my doubts and I called you jerk when you brought a woman over. I cursed you alot but when you kicked her out, it did feel great." Kissing his forehead, she continued, "May be you aren''t perfect and neither am I, in fact, no one is. Everyone have their own flaws but I am sure we can work on them together and take things forward smoothly."


    Pressing their forehead together, Calvin chuckled, "Sebastian and Noah are going to kill me if they find this out."


    "I know right? You are so dead if that happens. Ahh may be you can coax Noah with your sweet words but Sebastian, he will surely kill you."


    "Well, not my fault that his sister is so beautiful and tempting."


    ¡­.


    "Rose or Lilies?" The florist asked Sebastian who had been staring at the flowers for quite sometime.


    "What do you women like?" He asked.


    "Purpose?"


    "She might be mad at me and I want to apologize."


    "You should go for the rose bouquet young man, I bet your girlfriend will forgive you as soon as you give it to her."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 48 - Handsomness and s.e.xiness

    Awkwardly clearing his throat, Sebastian took out his wallet and explained, "She isn''t."


    "Ah so she is someone you are courting, roses will work for that too."


    Without explaining himself, Sebastian took the bouquet, paid for it and left.


    ¡­.


    Opening the passenger door of his car, he carefully placed the bouquet on the seat. He then closed the door and jogged towards the driver seat.


    The sky was already covered with thick black clouds and the wind was strong. Glancing at his watch, he sighed pulling the car door but he stopped midway when his eyes landed on something.


    Closing his eyes, he took a few deep breaths and murmured, "No Sebastian, that will be too much."


    Tapping his fingers on the car door for a few seconds, he gritted his teeth, locked his car and made his way towards the other side of the street.


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s apartment.


    Though Ellie felt much better after talking to Markus, she was still upset and mad over whatever had happened.


    To take the incident out of her mind, she even treated herself with a large size cheese burst pizza and a can of diet coke but when even the almighty pizza couldn''t cheer her up, she decided to take a nice and warm bubble bath.


    Lying inside the bathtub Ellie gathered all the foam around her and made a mountain out of it.


    Pointing her finger at the white, flufy foam, she gritted her teeth. "Oh look who is it? It''s the almighty, arrogant, rude and strict Sebastian Stewart."


    Pressing her finger on the Sebastian foam she just created, she narrowed her eyes, "You are a very bad boy Sebastian Stewart, I''ll have to spank your perfectly round ass to teach you a lesson. How dare you shout at a beautiful woman like me?"


    Puffing her cheeks, she continued, "Don''t you dare look at me with that beautiful eyes of yours because your handsomeness and s.e.xiness is not gonna save you from goddess Ellie''s wrath. You shall be destroyed and punished for making me upset."


    "Hhhaaaaa yaaaaaa." Splitting the foam mountain into two, she brushed her hands together. "This is what you get for shouting at a goddess."


    Slapping her forehead, she chuckled, "Grow up El, you aren''t five anymore."


    She sighed and closed her eyes when she realized something. Was she still thinking about her boss while taking a bath? Like seriously? Is she not sane anymore?


    ¡­..


    With a towel wrapped around her chest, Ellie was mercilessly shoving wafers into her mouth while talking to Melissa over the phone.


    "Seriously Mel, I am fine."


    "If you are really fine then why did you leave the office early and what''s with this sudden leave?" Melissa asked.


    "It''s a three days paid leave anyway and I was about to take it anyway." Looking at the several boxes who were glaring at her Ellie added, "I still haven''t unpacked properly and I need to do it."


    "Ahh I wanted to help you but I cannot come over now."


    "Why? Is s.e.x that important?" Ellie asked.


    "Uh huh it is but that is not the real problem. There is a cyclone coming up any minute. Wait, don''t tell me you haven''t noticed it yet?"


    "Noticed what?" Ellie asked.


    "It''s already raining outside El so don''t step out of your house okay? Stay inside because this cyclone is a really bad one."


    "Alright I¡ª" Just then, the doorbell rang interpreting her midway.


    "I think it''s my neighbor Mrs Trisi, she left her keys at my place. I''ll talk to you later okay?"


    "Alright, take care."


    After hanging up the call, Ellie got up and rushed towards the door.


    "Hey Mrs Tri¡ª" she widened her eyes in shock when she saw Sebastian and banged the door shut right on his face.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 49 - Curious, nervous and embarrassed

    Pressing her back against the door, Ellie gasped and groaned in frustration. Did her boss just see her only with a towel wrapped around her chest?


    Tightening her grip around the towel that was wrapped around her chest, she rushed towards her room.


    ¡­..


    Outside.


    Still confused and shocked over what he had seen and what had happened, Sebastian frowned.


    How could she bang the door shut right on his face? Did she not want to see him? Was she still angry and upset with him? What should he do now?


    With so many questions running in his mind, he was about to ring the doorbell again but he stopped himself and frowned deeper.


    Why would she open the door in that condition? What if it wasn''t him and some creep or a bugler?


    Looking at the empty corridor, he frowned even deeper. The security of the building was so lame that anyone would easily enter and exit the building without any restriction.


    How difficult would it be for someone to barge into her apartment, rob her or maybe do something worse before sneakily leaving? And to top everything up, she lived all by herself.


    After taking a mental note of doing something about it, Sebastian sighed and decided to patiently wait for her to open the door.


    ¡­.


    Inside the apartment.


    After wearing one of her baggy comfy t-shirts and boxers, Ellie rushed towards the door and started biting her nails nervously.


    She was curious, nervous and embarrassed at the same time.


    Curious and nervous because she had no idea what her boss was doing in her apartment. Wasn''t this his work time? And embarrassed because Sebastian had seen her in the most vulnerable and exposed condition.


    Why the hell did she open the door before wearing something decent? She had no idea what he might be thinking about her and that feeling was killing her.


    Pressing her ear against the door, she tried to find out whether he was there or had already left after witnessing such a horrible sight of her.


    "Damn, I cannot hear anything." Ellie cursed before taking a deep breath to calm her excited cells and nerves down.


    Wrapping her arms around the doorknob, she unlocked the door only to bang it shut again.


    Pressing the bag against the door, Ellie frowned wondering what she had seen is for real or not. She then widened her eyes in shock and quickly opened the door. How could she shut the door right on her boss''s face not just once but twice?


    ¡­.


    "I hope you won''t shut the door again Ms Miller or will you?" Sebastian asked.


    With her mouth wide open, Ellie kept on staring at the bouquet of roses but that wasn''t the actual thing which grabbed her attention. The cute little stuffed donkey with a grinning face which he was holding in his other hand almost made her go crazy. It looked so cute with his flashing white set of teeth and adorable floppy ears. Only if she could keep it for herself and hug it to sleep everyday.


    "Ms Miller, are you alright?" He asked.


    Taking her eyes off the adorable little, Ellie awkwardly cleared her throat and nodded her head, "Yes boss, I am alright."


    "Hmm can I come in now or do you want to shut me out again?"


    She vigorously shook her head and pursed her lips. "Please come in."


    "After you."


    Ellie nodded her head and slowly entered her apartment leaving the door for Sebastian to close.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 50 - I am sorry

    Inside the apartment.


    Looking around, Sebastian frowned when he saw the messy living room but considering the fact that she had just moved in, he shrugged his OCD thoughts off.


    Looking at her boss who was busy observing her apartment, all Ellie could think of was the Sebastian foam mountain that she made in the bathtub and his perfectly round ass that she wanted to spank to punish him.


    Though he was wearing his same morning suit, why did he look more handsome?


    "Ms Miller, are you okay?"


    Taking her intense gaze off him, Ellie awkwardly cleared her throat. "Yes boss, I am fine."


    Cursing herself under her breath, she reminded herself she was still mad with him for shouting at her. After convincing herself not to get influenced by his beauty, she was about to ask him something when he did something that shocked her to her soul.


    Extending the flowers and the little stuffed donkey towards her, Sebastian said, "This is for you."


    Initially he had convinced himself to get flowers, only flowers but his only flower idea got busted when he saw the stuffed creepy looking grinning donkey and for some odd reason, he couldn''t take his eyes off it. The strong urge which was building within him to buy it for her kept on intensifying and no matter how hard he tried to take that damn toy out of his head, he couldn''t. So he ended up buying it for her.


    "T-This is for me?"


    Looking at her shocked expression, he raised his eyebrows and asked, "Is there anyone else other than us? Do you see anyone else Ms Miller?" When Ellie vigorously shook her head, he added, "So isn''t it evident that it''s for you?"


    Pausing for a while, Sebastian cleared his throat and continued, "What happened today in the morning I¡ª" stopping midway, he took a deep breath and added, "I shouldn''t have shouted at you that way. I am very sorry for being rude."


    "Boss I¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he said, "Patricia told me that you left office early today so I felt bad over what I did. It''s your first week so you are bound to make mistakes and I shouldn''t have lashed out at you like you in front of everyone. So I wanted to come over and apologize personally." Extending his apology gift toward her, Sebastian added, "I bought you flowers and this¡ª" shaking the soft toy, he continued, "animal. I want you to accept them and come back to work starting tomorrow."


    Taking the toy, Ellie caressed it''s long ears and smiled, "This is really very cute boss, thank you so much."


    "Here, this is for you as well."


    A blush crept all over her face when she took the flowers from his hand. "Thank you so much but you shouldn''t have taken so much trouble boss."


    "It''s alright, I wasn''t doing anything." But the truth was, he couldn''t do anything for the entire day. This was actually the most unproductive day of his entire life. Neither did he attend a single doc.u.ment that needed his signature nor could he concentrate during the meetings. Her absence killed his entire day which was really very strange.


    Looking at Ellie who was smiling while hugging the toy and admiring the flowers, Sebastian felt at peace. The uneasiness he was feeling at his heart for the entire day was now replaced with a weird yet pleasant sensation that he had never felt before.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 51 - A whole week?

    The different and complex emotions that he had been feeling lately was undefinable. Sebastian had never felt so many emotions at the same time in his entire life but he had been shrugging them off but today, he was forced to admit that something was wrong.


    Losing his cool when some other man tried to hit on her, switching plates with her and now bringing her flower and a weird looking soft toy was not the list of things that Sebastian did. In fact, those things were not even close to the things he was used to doing.


    When was the last time he had actually eaten out of someone''s plate or took all the trouble to buy a gift and apologize because he didn''t want the other person to be sad?


    Sebastian had long stopped caring about people other than his friends and family. He never gave a damn about anyone else but he was unknowingly breaking many of his rules for Ellie.


    "This is really very beautiful boss, thank you so much." The anger in her heart faded away and her sour mood immediately lightened up when Sebastian gave her the flowers and the stuffed toy.


    "Are you talking about the flowers or the toy?" Sebastian asked.


    "Well, flowers are nice too but this¡ª" keeping the flowers on the couch, she hugged the donkey and sighed, "This is the best."


    Just then a loud banging sound startled both of them.


    Slapping her forehead, Ellie groaned in frustration, "Ahh the cyclone, I forgot to close the windows. Hmm boss, can you help me close them?"


    Sebastian nodded his head and helped her out.


    ...


    After making sure that everything was closed and safe, Sebastian glanced at his watch and decided it to leave.


    "Hmm are you leaving now? I mean the cyclone just started and I heard that it''s a very bad one."


    He was about to say something, she added, "Why don''t you stay for sometime and then leave later when everything calms down?" Fearing that he would misunderstand, she quickly added, "It''s not safe to go out right now so¡ª"


    "Alright, I hope you won''t mind if I invade your living room for sometime." Walking towards the couch, his eyes twitched when he saw a packet of half eaten potato ch.i.p.s. "Do you eat this all the time? If yes, you know that this isn''t healthy right?"


    "Umm, not all the time." Taking the packet from his hand, she added, "It''s only when I don''t feel like cooking."


    ''What a smooth liar you are Ellie Miller?'' she thought before tossing the packet inside the dustbin.


    Pushing a couple of boxes to the corner, she sighed, "I am sorry, my house is a mess right now."


    "Hmm, I guess it won''t be a mess if you unbox these and arrange everything." Sebastian said before sitting on the couch.


    Ellie sighed and nodded her head, "Hmm and that is why I took the leave but I doubt whether I''ll be done in three days or not. This will surely take at least a week."


    A week? A whole week to unpack not even ten boxes? Looking around he frowned, so does that mean she is planning to take a whole week leave?


    "You need a whole week for this?" Without waiting for her reply, he added, "Looks like a couple of hours work to me."


    "I am slow boss and may be a little bit lazy."


    Taking off his blazer, Sebastian started folding his sleeves. "Let me help you with this."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 52 - Red thing

    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and asked, "What?"


    Raising his eyebrows, Sebastian asked, "Is there any problem?" When Ellie vigorously shook her head, he continued folding his sleeves.


    With her eyes still wide open, Ellie couldn''t take her eyes off the s.e.xy and handsome Sebastian Stewart was neatly folding his sleeves.


    Her boss bringing her flowers and her favorite donkey stuffed toy had already melted her heart and now if he walks around her and her apartment, wouldn''t she surely faint or have a nose bleed?


    The thought of Sebastian''s strong arm carrying the cartons around the apartment was making her feel giddy.


    "Which one shall we start from?" Sebastian asked. When Ellie did not say anything, he raised his eyebrows and called her out. "Ms Miller?"


    "Ha." Awkwardly clearing her throat, she asked, "Hmm did you say something boss?"


    "Which one do you wanna unbox first?"


    "Umm no favouritism, we can start from anywhere."


    Sebastian nodded his head and started walking towards the nearest box.


    Bending down, he took off the tape and rolled it into a ball. Grabbing an empty paper bag which was lying on the floor, he tossed the tape ball inside the bag.


    Closing her eyes, Ellie slapped her forehead and silently groaned in frustration. Her boss had already started working and there she was standing behind him staring at his around ass.


    "Ms Miller where do you want me to place these?" When she did not answer again, Sebastian frowned and called her out again, "Are you okay?"


    "Hmmm." Tucking her hair behind her ear, Ellie nodded her head, "I am okay and you can place them inside my room."


    Sebastian nodded his head and left while Ellie brushed her lewd thoughts about him and started working on the boxes too.


    Humming a song, she was taking off the tape when realisation hit her like a truck.


    "Shit." She crushed before rushing towards her bedroom.


    ¡­.


    Ellie''s bedroom.


    Looking around the Sebastian frowned, Ellie''s room was messier than he thought.


    Her clothes were scattered all over the place, the bedsheet was messy and the pillow was lying on the floor.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he kept the books on the bed before bending down to pick up the pillow but his hand stopped midway and his eyes widened in shock when he saw something.


    Retrieving his hand back, he quickly got up and looked away.


    Awkwardly scratching his head, he stretched his hands and picked up the pillow before tossing it on the bed, completely ignoring the red lacy bra that was staring at him.


    He then started looking around to find an empty space for the books but ended up looking at the red thing again.


    Shutting his eyes, he gritted his teeth before kicking it under the bed.


    Just then Ellie dashed into the room and rushed towards him.


    When Sebastian saw her, his breathing hitched. He didn''t want to but all he could think about after seeing her was the red lacy bra he had just kicked under the bed.


    ...

 Chapter 53 - Is it necessary?

    Looking around, Ellie breathed a sigh of relief when she did not see her bra that she had tossed on the floor before entering the washroom to take a long bubble bath.


    "I am sorry, my room is a bit messy and¡ª" she stopped mid-way when she noticed him staring at her.


    When her gaze met his intense one, Ellie''s heart skipped her beat. The way he was looking at her made her feel shy and giddy. She was already having a really hard time taking his charm off her head and his staring activities weren''t helping.


    Sebastian on the other hand was completely mesmerized by her undefinable beauty. Though he had very little or may be no experience with women but he could still say that Ellie was different. She wasn''t like those horny and s.e.xy assistants Noah had hired for him in the past.


    No, she was s.e.xy too but in a very good way and Sebastian happened to love that way.


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear when Ellie bit her lower lip, he gulped in nervousness. Not only did his throat feel dry but he was also feeling very pleasurably uncomfortable.


    Resisting the strange and strong urge to caress her lips, he took a deep breath and reluctantly turned around.


    "Where should I keep these?" Sebastian asked before picking up the books.


    "Hmm why don''t you just keep it there and I''ll arrange them later."


    "So by later, do you mean after a few hours or after a few weeks?" Sebastian asked.


    "After we finish dealing with those boxes."


    "Okay." Glancing at his watch, he added, "We should be done in a couple of hours."


    "Do you really have to time everything?" Ellie asked.


    When Sebastian did not say anything, she added, "I mean why do you have to time yourself like that? Is it necessary?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he said, "Because that is who I am and how I live. I have always been punctual and I like when things happen according to my plan."


    "You are human being Sebas¡ªI mean boss, you are human being and not an alarm clock. Like I know being punctual is important and it is a good thing and maybe I''ll never understand the importance of it because I suck at time management and being punctual but I do understand that one shouldn''t live like you do." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "We are supposed to follow the clock not live like a clock."


    "Ms Miller¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Ellie added, "Maybe you were super pissed when I made changes in your schedule this morning but whatever I did was to help you step out of your irritating life and have a little fun like your friends do. My intentions were pure but if you think that I overstepped my boundaries then I am sorry and I know you are also sorry for lashing out at me but I had to say this okay? It''s not like I am still mad you but¡ª"


    She stopped mid-way when Sebastian walked out of the room without saying anything.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 54 - Thirsty

    Ellie frowned and pursed her lips after Sebastian left. How could he just walk out while she was talking? Did he not know that it was rude to walk out when someone is talking?


    Wait, did she say something that she shouldn''t have?


    Widening her eyes in shock she gasped. Did she just lash out at her boss?


    Slapping her forehead, she cursed herself for having such a big mouth. Wasn''t this matter already over? Sebastian had already apologized and she had already forgiven him so why did she snap at him?


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, she sighed. Why was she poking her nose in someone else''s life when he clearly wasn''t liking it? Ellie had never cared anyone so much apart from her close friends, Melissa and her family but for some odd reason, she was caring about Sebastian more than she was supposed to and no matter how hard she tried not to, she couldn''t stop herself.


    Just then a loud thunder startled her.


    Placing her hand on her chest, she was trying to calm herself down when Sebastian entered the room holding a glass of water.


    "Here Ms Miller, drink it."


    Taking the glass from his hand, Ellie lowered her head and said, "I thought you left."


    "I thought you wanted me to stay but if I am invading your privacy then I can¡ª"


    "No no I did not mean that, I thought that maybe you got pissed again and left." Running her fingers through the rim of the glass, she sighed, "I am sorry for shouting at you, I didn''t mean to but it just came out of me and I am really very sorry for that."


    "I just stepped out to get some water for you because I thought you needed it."


    "I did." Gulping down the entire glass in one go, she sighed, "Ahh this feels so good."


    Wiping her mouth with the back of her hand, she kept the glass on the bedside table before looking at Sebastian only to realise that he was already staring at her.


    Balling his hand into a fist which was tucked inside his pocket, he ran his other hand through his hair before turning around.


    Why did she look so s.e.xy even when she was only drinking some water with her lips pressed against the rim of the glass?


    There she was innocently quenching her thirst and what was he doing? He couldn''t stop staring at her pink juicy lips and the water droplet that trickled down from the corner of her lips only to disappear under her clothes.


    Massaging his forehead, he sighed. From when did he start having such nasty thoughts?


    Scratching his neck, he awkwardly cleared his throat and tried not to think about her lacy bra, her lips and how gorgeous she looked when she was scolding him.


    "Hmm boss, are you okay?"


    "Ya, I guess I just need some water." Yes, he needed a big jar of water because he was thirsty, very thirsty.


    "Ya sure, I''ll get it for you."


    After Ellie left, Sebastian quickly followed her behind. He didn''t wanna stay in her room and see anything more than he should.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 55 - Soft yet hard

    Melissa and Naoh''s place.


    "Honey, do you think we made a mistake?"


    Caressing her back, Noajh asked, "What are you talking about babe?"


    "I am talking about El, do you think we shouldn''t have helped her get this job? I mean as Sebastian''s assistant."


    "But why?"


    "I just feel very sad for her after what happened today. Sebastian is really too much at times and I feel very sorry for El because I was the one who told her about the vacancy. It feels like I kicked my best friend off the cliff."


    Noah nodded his ehsd and sighed, "Sebastian is tough at times but he isn''t bad you know. He is very good at heart but he has this very serious problem over expressing himself. So he may look super cold from outside but he actually isn''t. I grew up with him so I know how he exactly is but others won''t see what Ava and I do."


    Drawing circles on his chest, she sighed, "I am not saying that he is bad but he is just too much at times."


    Pressing his lips on the top of her head, he nodded his head, "I know what you are talking about babe but you need to see things through Sebastian''s perspective as well. That man has been following a particular thing for years now so how is he supposed to feel if someone just steps forward and starts messing up everything without his consent? Look I know what Ellie wanted to do was great and I really appreciate it but Seb is different, he isn''t like you or me."


    "Hmm I guess you are right, maybe I''ll just ask Ellie not to bother with him and just do her work. By the way Mr Stewart, did I ever tell you how hot you look when you are serious?" Brushing her fingers against his torso, Melissa smiled.


    Pinning her down, Noah grinned, "Oh no you didn''t."


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she added, "Hmmm, so did I tell you how hot you were looking during the afternoon meeting today? I literally had to stop myself from pouncing onto you in front of so many employees."


    "Don''t resist now babe, I am all yours." Noah said before pressing their lips together.


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s apartment.


    Kitchen.


    After pouring a glass of water for her boss, Ellie rubbed her stomach and sighed. She was hungry again and was craving for some cookies.


    Looking around, her eyes brightened up when she saw a jar of her favourite cookie in the top-most shelf.


    Taking off her slippers, she tried to climb on the counter but failed. Dragging a nearby stool, stepped on it before stepping on the slippery marble counter.


    As soon as she grabbed her jar, she excitedly turned around only to slip off the counter.


    Hugging the cookie jar like it was the most precious thing in the whole universe, she squealed and prepared herself to at least break a leg, hand or head.


    With her eyes squeezed shut, she waited for her face to hit the ground but surprisingly ended up falling on something hard yet soft.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 56 - You are different

    Was there a carpet on the floor? Did she die already? Was this how it felt when one landed in heaven? No she didn''t wanna die, not until she completes her bucket list.


    Tightening her grip around the cookie jar when Ellie snuggled closer, Sebastian breathing hitched.


    He was sitting in the living room wondering why she hadn''t arrived yet. After contemplating for a while, he decided to check her out.


    As soon as he stepped into the kitchen, he widened his eyes in shock when he saw her climbing on the kitchen counter like a monkey.


    Knowing how clumsy she is, Sebastian''s instincts kicked in and he rushed towards her to help her out but who would''ve thought that her clumsiness would kick in and she would end up slipping on the counter.


    Luckily he was fast enough to catch her and scoop her into his arms otherwise what would''ve happened if she was alone?


    "You do know that you are a human and not a monkey right?" Sebastian asked.


    Without waiting for her reply, Sebastian added, "And why would you even have to keep that jar up there when you know you can''t take it out easily?"


    When Ellie opened her eyes and saw Sebastian''s gorgeous face right in front of hers, she gulped in nervousness. Though he was frowning at her, he still looked so hot and attractive.So she had landed on her boss''s arms and not heaven.


    Letting go off the cookie jar, she widened her eyes in shock. Oh my God, she was in her boss''s arms.


    Just then a loud crashing sound startled her. Looking at the broken cookie jar, she groaned in frustration, "Ahh my favorite cookies."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian sighed. What would he do with her?


    When Ellie started struggling to get down, he frowned and tightened his grip around her. "What are you doing?"


    "Boss I need to clean that."


    Without saying anything, he started walking out of the kitchen, completely ignoring her questions.


    With her arms hooked around his neck, Ellie kept on blabbering and ranting about her cookies and why he wouldn''t let her down.


    Placing her on the couch, Sebastian said, "Don''t move from here and tell me where do you keep the broom?"


    Getting up, Ellie snapped, "But¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he grabbed her shoulders and pushed her down. "There is no way you are entering the kitchen until I clean that mess." How could he let her go anywhere near that broken jar knowing how clumsy she is? Sebastian was a hundred percent sure that she would surely prick or injure herself whil cleaning it. He didn''t want her to injure herself so he decided to do it himself.


    "Where is the broom Ms Miller?"


    "Hmm, its behind the shelf."


    After grabbing the broom, Sebastian frowned. So he first personally apologizes his assistant, brings gifts for her, stays over, offers help, brings her a glass of water and now he is about to broom her kitchen. What the hell was happening? When was the last time he did so much for someone? He did not remember because it had never happened.


    "Boss, do you want me to help you?" Ellie asked. How could she let her boss clean the mess she had created? That would be very inappropriate and awkward.


    "Just stay here, I''ll be done in a minute." Without giving her a chance to convince him, he made his way towards the kitchen.


    ¡­.


    Kitchen.


    Looking at broken jar and cookies, Sebastian signed. Squatting down, he slowly started cleaning them wondering why would anyone want them so bad? Cookies were always too sweet and buttery for him.


    Using the dustpan, he was about to discard them but decided to take a closer look at them.


    "Choco-peanut butter cookie." He murmured before tossing them into the bin.


    ¡­..


    Living room.


    When Sebastian sat down beside her, Ellie took a deep breath and apologized, "I am sorry you had to clean that mess and thank you so much for saving me from breaking my skull."


    "You should be careful next time. What would''ve happened if I wasn''t there? You stay alone so you need to be extra careful. Why did you keep that jar up there?"


    Slapping her forehead, she chuckled, "Because I didn''t wanna eat them ans grow fat. I had already finished five such jars and that was the last one I had so I wanted to save them and eat them later. Who would''ve thought that I would crave for them today?"


    Without waiting for his reply, Ellie added, "Do you know how rare those cookies are? I mean it isn''t rare in Seattle but they arent available here. I''ll get some more when I go back."


    "Oh so you are planning to go home again?"


    Ellie shook her head and said, "No, how can I go back so soon? May be after a few months but damn, I''ll miss those cookies so much."


    "Hmm but still you should be careful not only inside but also outside. Make sure to check through the key whole who is at the door before opening it. You have to be more alert because I noticed that this apartment doesn''t have proper security facility so you have to take care of yourself." Sebastian had no idea why he was lecturing her to stay safe and to be cautious but he wanted to make sure that she stays safe. He didnt want her to get into trouble.


    His concerned tone made Ellie blush. Why was he doing this? And why the hell was she liking it?


    "Hmm, I''ll be careful next time."


    Pausing for a while, Ellie smiled and added, "You are not like everyone says boss, you are completely different."


    "What makes you think that I am different?" Sebastian asked.


    Crossing legs, she faced him and answered, "I dont know what makes me think like that but I feel that you aren''t cold, heart hearted, robotic, someone who doesn''t wanna enjoy life kind of person. Though I also dont know why you portray yourself like that so you really can''t blame people for using such harsh terms to describe you."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 57 - Free bird

    When Sebastian did not say anything, Ellie slapped her forehead and sighed, "I said too much again. I am really sorry, I didn''t mean to but¡ªAhh you know that I have a very big mouth. You know¡ª"


    "Changes scare me." Pausing for a while, Sebastian added, "It feels weird when I try to change."


    "Why? Why would it feel weird?"


    Shrugging his shoulder, he added, "I don''t know sometimes I feel like maybe I am so used to living the same way that my body doesn''t want to welcome any new changes. It doesn''t feel right."


    "Hmm, have you tried implementing them? I mean have you ever tried making changes in your day to day life?" When Sebastian shook his head, she added, "So how can you say that it never works?"


    "It''s not just about me, I also don''t wanna freak out everyone who is around me. You saw how shocked and baffled they were when I arrived at the dinner party yesterday. I just don''t want to ruin their mood you know so I seldom show up."


    "What? Why would you even think like that?" Pausing when for a while, Ellie added, "Your friends love you boss and if you really did ruin their mood, why would they even invite? Wouldn''t they just party around secretly without letting you know? Have they ever not invited you when they organised something?"


    "They always invite me."


    "There you see? Your friends love and care about you. You shouldn''t distant yourself from people who care for you. That will make you feel alone and lose faith in you."


    Sebastian sighed and said, "I guess I am just too conscious of what people will think if I start changing. I mean you know, I hate it when people go all ''Ahh where is the old Sebastian? What did you do to him? Where is he lost?'' It''s kinda frustrating."


    "But why do you care? Like seriously, why do you even care what others will think? It''s your life and you can live it the way you want to without paying any heed to what others say." After taking a deep breath, Ellie continued, "Okay let me put it this way, people call me clumsy, lazy, disorganized, monster eater and...Ahh this list will never end but do I care?"


    Sebastian chuckled and shook his head , "No you don''t."


    "Exactly and why should I? Is it necessary to care? Is there a rule that I have to care? No right? So I do what I want to and what I feel like without giving a shit to those judgemental eyes and trust me boss, life is so beautiful and blessed when you just stop caring and live like a free bird."


    Looking at her bright and happy face, his heart warmed up. Only if he had such an amazing personality like hers. "Not everyone is like you Ms Miller."


    Pursing her lips, Ellie nodded her head, "Hmmm, that is true. I am talented and not everyone has the same talent like I do."


    "How do you always stay so positive? How can you take things so optimistically? Aren''t you afraid of anything?" Sebastian asked. The more he talked to her, his curiosity to know everything about her kept spiking higher and higher. He had never shared his inner feelings with anyone but he wanted to tell her everything and he wanted to know everything about her too. It felt very strange yet peaceful at the same time and surprisingly, he was liking it.


    "It''s not like I am not scared of anything, there are many things I fear. Like, what if you fire you? What if I lose everything that I have now? What will happen if one day I end up losing my carefree and jolly nature? But what is the point fearing what will happen in the future when you still have a present to enjoy to the fullest."


    Without waiting for his reply, Ellie added, "You know master Oogway once said that yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery but today is a gift and that is why it is called present."


    Pausing for a while, she added, "So enjoy the gift without caring about anything."


    "Hmmm, so is master Oogway a philosophy teacher?" He asked.


    Bursting into a laughter, she shouted, "What? No, I am talking about master Oogway from Kung Fu Panda."


    "A cartoon character?"


    "What are you talking about, boss? Master Oogway is a legend." Widening her eyes in shock, she gasped, "Oh my God, don''t tell me you have never watched Kung Fu Panda."


    When Sebastian shook his head, Ellie frowned, "This is so weird, ahh I cannot believe this."


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, he explained, "I never really got an opportunity to watch it and I wasn''t allowed to watch cartoons when I was young."


    "Then what did you grow up watching? BBC?" Ellie asked sarcastically but when Sebastian nodded his eyes, she widened her eyes in shock. "Really?"


    "Hmm, I used to watch BBC with dad or business news."


    "But you were small so did you even understand anything?" She asked, wondering why would any parent make his little kid watch BBC or business news and not cartoons.


    "My dad would explain everything and I used to listen." Pausing for a while, he added, "It was fun too."


    "You call that fun? Ahh wait a sec." Ellie said before rushing into her room.


    After a couple of minutes, she came out of the room along with her laptop. Keeping it on the table, she added, "My mom always says that it''s never too late for anything. One must just have the willingness to do it so here you go¡ª" passing him an earpiece of the earphones, she continued, "We are going to watch the entire series of Kung Fu Panda today."


    "But we were supposed to clean your¡ª"


    "Ah never mind boss, I''ll do it later. I guess this is more important. You have no idea what you have been missing and trust me, you are gonna love this."


    "But¡ª"


    Shoving the earpiece into his ear, Ellie started the playing the first part of the Kung Fu Panda movie series.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 58 - Always clumsy

    After watching two movies non-stop, Ellie stretched her hands and legs. "Ahhh I can never get bored of this."


    Turning off the laptop, Sebastian cracked his fingers and asked, "How many times did you watch this already?" During the whole movie, Ellie kept laughing and told him everything beforehand and even explained several things to him though everything was well explained in the movie which made him wonder how many times she had watched the entire series.


    "Hmm, I don''t really remember. I never get tired of it no matter how many times I watch it. I have this huge collection of such movies..ahh you need to watch them all. You will right?"


    Sebastian smiled and nodded his head, "Of course only if you are willing to share your collection with me."


    "Ahh are you kidding me? Of course I will, you have already missed so much in the past so now it''s time to relive your childhood." Glancing at the watch, Ellie gasped, "Ahh it''s so late already, I''ll go quickly make us dinner."


    "Ms Miller it''s alright, you don''t have to take all the trouble to¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she chuckled, "It''s alright boss and don''t worry even though I am clumsy at times, my cooking skill is fabulous and you are gonna love it."


    "You are always clumsy." Sebastian muttered under his breath.


    "Hmm, did you say something?"Ellie asked.


    Clearing his throat when Sebastian shook his head, she added, "Why don''t you sit here and watch the last part of the movie and I''ll quickly make something for us."


    "Are you sure? I can help." He was a bit hesitant to leave her all by herself in the kitchen. Calculating her clumsiness and her extraordinary talent of falling everywhere, he had a very bad feeling that she would definitely burn or hurt herself.


    "Its alright boss, kitchen is my territory and I am a pro. You should just sit back and enjoy the movie" Without waiting for his reply, she started walking towards the kitchen.


    Hesitating for a while, Sebastian sat down and opened the laptop, all set to watch the last part of the movie series.


    ¡­..


    Kitchen.


    Staring at the refrigerator, Ellie was immersed in a very deep thought when her eyes landed on the lettuce that was lying in there for God knows how many days.


    Thinking for quite some time, she grinned and patted her shoulder, "There there Ellie Miller, you are a genius."


    Grabbing the lettuce and a few other veggies that would go with it, she slammed the door shut before walking towards the counter.


    ¡­..


    Living room.


    Sebastian frowned and took the earphones before tossing it on the table. The movie wasn''t as interesting as before and he didn''t feel like watching it.


    He was clearly enjoying it when he was watching it with her but now that she was no more beside him, laughing, explaining unnecessary things, the movie wasn''t appealing enough.


    Leaning back, he crossed his arms in the first and frowned deeper. Did he enjoy the movie only because Ellie was watching it with him? Or was the last part really very boring?


    Massaging his forehead, he sighed. What was wrong with him?


    After closing the laptop, he decided to check on Ellie but a phone call interrupted him.


    Looking at the caller ID, he took a deep breath before receiving it.


    "Where are you?"


    Awkwardly scratching his forehead, Sebastian lied, "I am at the office mom, what happened?"


    "Where is Ava?"


    "She might be at home, why? What happened?" He asked.


    "Do you know that your sister hasn''t stepped into the house since we left? And aren''t you supposed to make sure that she doesn''t break rules? Do you have any idea where that girl has been staying?" Rebecca snapped.


    "Mom, Ava has been staying with me since you and dad left. She said she feels lonely in the mansion so I called her over and she will be staying with me until you both come back." Sebastian lied again.


    "Hmm, make sure that she doesn''t do anything inappropriate. My friend''s son is quite interested in her , so remind her to call him. She isn''t receiving my call so you''ll have to pass on that message."


    Without waiting for his reply, she added, "And ask her to receive my call."


    "I will mom and don''t worry about Ava or anything else, I''ll take care of it."


    "This is why I am proud of you son." Rebecca said before hanging up the call.


    Looking at the blank screen, Sebastian sighed before tossing his phone aside.


    ¡­.


    Kitchen.


    Stirring the bubbling thick chicken soup, Ellie was humming a song while swaying her hip too and fro.


    Leaning against the door, Sebastian chuckled when Ellie used the spatula as a mic before singing Boss Bitch by Doja Cat aloud.


    Turning the stove off, she lifted her other hand up and swapped her h.i.p.s up and down before swirling around only to find her boss staring at her with a very amusing smile on his face.


    Dropping the spatula on the floor, Ellie jumped back in horror.


    Sebastian widened his eyes in shock and shouted, "Be careful, the soup is hot El¡ª" stopping midway, he corrected himself, "I mean Ms Miller, the soup is hot."


    Placing her hand on her chest, Ellie patted her chest. "You scared me boss."


    "I am sorry for interrupting your dance."


    "I¡ª" lowering her head, she blushed and awkwardly stood there without saying anything.


    Picking up the spatula from the floor, she quickly turned around. "Hmm the food is almost ready boss, I''ll bring it out in a minute."


    "Let me help you with the serving."


    "There¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he took the spatula from her hand. "I''ll serve the soup, you can take out the bowl."


    After washing the spatula in the sink, Sebastian stirred the soup a couple of times before taking the bowl from her hand.


    "I thought you were watching the movie, what happened?" She asked.


    "I had attended an important call so I had to stop."


    And Sebastian lied again. Well, he couldn''t tell her that the movie wasn''t interesting because she wasn''t beside him right?


    ¡­..

 Chapter 59 - Board game

    "Hmm nevermind, let''s watch it together after we finish eating or do you wanna play a board game before watching the movie?"


    "What kind of board game? Chess?" Sebastian asked.


    "Pttf chess is for intelligent people boss and I don''t fall under that category. How about snake and ladders?"


    When he frowned and did not say anything, Ellie asked, "You do know how to play snake and ladders right?"


    "Of course I do, why wouldn''t I know to play a game called snake and ladders?"


    "Great, we should start as soon as we are done with dinner."


    Sebastian nodded his head before turning around and resumed pouring the soup into the other bowl. He had never played a board game before but how tough could a game called snake and ladders be? He would definitely figure the game out as soon as he got a chance to examine the board.


    "You take the bowls out and I''ll bring the sandwiches, they should be done in a minute or so."


    "Hmm, alright."


    ¡­.


    Dining area.


    "Here you go, I made some chicken soup and grilled veggies sandwiches for us." Rubbing her hands together, Ellie added, "I hope you''ll like it boss."


    Looking at the grilled sandwiches, Sebastian sighed. He wasn''t a big fan of sandwiches but would he tell her that? Of course not, she had taken all the trouble to make dinner for him so how could he let her down?


    "What happened boss? Don''t you like them?" She asked.


    He vigorously shook his head and smiled, "Of course not, I like sandwiches."


    "That is great, you should try the soup first. My grandma taught me this recipe when I was in highschool so i have been making this since then. It''s light yet very filling."


    Picking up a spoon, he scooped some soup and slowly took a sip before blowing it twice.


    When the delicious flavours exploded inside his mouth, he closed his eyes. This was the best soup he had tasted for as long as he could remember. He was used to eating the bland food everyday so the soup that she had prepared was like a treat to his dead taste buds and he loved it. Who would''ve thought that the clumsy Ellie could cook so well?


    Ellie was about to ask him whether he liked the soup or not but she didn''t when he noticed that he was enjoying it. He was continuously scooping the soup and shoving it into the mouth. Assuming that he liked it, she decided not to disturb him.


    Taking a sandwich from the plate, he took a big bite and closed his eyes. It was as delicious as the soup.


    Waving the sandwich, he asked, "Did you make them yourself?"


    Ellie nodded her head and asked, "Why? Is it not good?"


    "You kidding me? This is delicious." After taking multiple bites, he added, "This is the best sandwich I have ever had."


    Looking at the empty bowl, she asked, "Do you want some more soup?"


    "Yes, I would love to."


    Taking the empty bowl with her, she smiled and entered the kitchen.


    After sometime when Ellie came out, she widened her eyes in shock when she saw the empty plate which had almost eight sandwiches.


    Taking the bowl from her hand, he said, "Thank you so much."


    Looking at her boss who was still busy shoving the sandwich inside his mouth, she slightly frowned. Did he have all the eight sandwiches that she had prepared? How could he not spare a piece or two for her?


    Just then her eyes landed on the pair of grilled sandwiches which were neatly placed on her plate.


    Wiping his mouth with a napkin, Sebastian warned, "You should eat them before I snatch them away."


    "Ahh you just ate six of them together, you''ll get a stomach ache if you eat anymore."


    Rubbing his stomach, Sebastian sighed. She was right, his stomach wouldn''t be able to take in anything.


    ¡­.


    Crashing on the couch, Sebastian rubbed his stomach and sighed. He ate too much and was feeling bloated but did he regret it? No, he didn''t. When was the last time he ate such a fantastic and delicious dinner?


    Looking at Ellie who was cleaning the table, he smiled. His assistant wasn''t just lazy or clumsy, she was talented too. How lovely would life be if he could eat the delicious food that she cooked everyday?


    He then frowned and grumpily slumped up on the couch. The thought of eating the bland food that he always did starting tomorrow was making him grumpy and sour.


    Would she cook for him everyday if he asked her too?


    Slapping his forehead, he took a deep breath. Why would she? ''Stop being silly Sebastian," He thought before brushing his weird thoughts away.


    "Ah so here is the board game I was talking about." Spreading the board on table, Ellie sat down on the floor with her legs crossed. Taking out the dice, she took out a blue and red board piece and placed them in the starting point.


    Looking at the several big and small sized snakes and ladders, Sebastian grinned inwardly and sat down right across her. There he was thinking that it was a complicated board game but who would''ve thought that it would be such an easy one.


    "Okay so I am blue and you are red." Rolling the dice, she asked, "Do you want me to explain the¡ª"


    Cutying her off, Sebastian said, "It''s okay Ms Miller, I got this."


    Tossing the dice on the board, Ellie moved her blue board piece forward. Following her actions, he did the same.


    As the game commenced forward, she squealed in excitement and climbed up the biggest ladder which ascended her from 36 to 87. "Wuhu, I am going to win this."


    Sebastian who was still behind in number 28, rolled the dice once again. He grinned when the it rolled down to number two.


    When he moved his piece from 28 to 30, she grabbed the dice and was about to roll it when the latter did something that blew her mind.


    Taking his red board piece from the tail of the big snake to his mouth, he smiled in victory.


    "Eh! why did you climb up?" Ellie shouted.


    "Why not?"


    When Ellie have him a weird look, Sebastian explained, "You see Ms Miller, to succeed, you''re supposed to start from the bottom. So you start with the tail and end with the head because that''s where the brain is."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 60 - Cheating

    Dragging his board piece back to its original place, Ellie puffed her cheeks.


    "Hey, that is cheating." Sebastian snapped before trying to snatch his board piece from her hand.


    Slapping his hand away, she frowned, "You are cheating."


    Crossing his hands on his chest, he raised his eyebrows at her. "How so?"


    "What do you mean by how so? You can''t make your own rules and assume things? And what bottom, head, brain? Are you kidding me?"


    "What? Didn''t you understand what I am trying to say? Okay let me explain it in a very simple way. So that¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "No no no, that is wrong. You can''t climb up using the snake''s tail."


    "Why not?"


    "Because it''s not how you are supposed to play snake and ladders." Pointing towards the ladder, she added, "If you could climb up using snake tails why would they add these ladders?"


    "You can climb up using the ladder too." When she did not say anything, he added, "So you climb using the ladder and the snake."


    "Uh huh, people surely play your kind of snake and ladders in the parallel world of Sebastian''s." Taking a deep breath to calm herself down and resisting the strong urge to knock his forehead, she continued, "You climb up using the ladders, only the ladders."


    "So what do the snakes do?"


    "They do what they are best at, bite your ass and drag you down. You see boss, if the ladders help you ascend and so do the snakes, how will this game make any sense?"


    Looking at the board, Sebastian frowned. The game made more sense to him now.


    Bringing both the pieces back to the start point, Ellie muttered, "I cannot believe that I am teaching a grown-up man how to play snake and ladders."


    "Did you say something Ms Miller?"


    "Uh huh, nothing. We are starting again and this time please dont start the head, bottom, brain again."


    ¡­..


    "Wuhhu, I won." Ellie squealed in excitement before grinning from ear to ear.


    Sebastian frowned and gritted his teeth. "That is cheating, I was supposed to win." He was leading the game and was a few steps away from his victory when the biggest and longest snake bit his ass and dragged him down to the number 7 box.


    "Oh you should scold the snake and not me." When he started sulking, she added, "Aww there there it''s alright, you don''t have to sulk like that. It''s just a game and I won."


    "Let''s play again."


    "Umm, I don''t want to. We still have to watch the movie, remember?"


    When Sebastian nodded his head, she got up and rushed inside her room.


    After some time, she came out with two thin blankets and a big packet of potato ch.i.p.s.


    When Sebastian frowned, Ellie quickly explained, "This is my favourite ch.i.p.s and it''s very tasty."


    Waving the two blankets, she asked, "Which one?"


    Taking the black blanket, he asked, "What about the boxes?"


    "Ah are you still not over them yet? Just let it be boss, I''ll do it tomorrow."


    "Tomorrow?"


    Settling on the couch when she nodded her head, he added, "So you won''t be coming to the office tomorrow?"


    "Hmm I am on leave, remember?"


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, he nodded his head, "Yeah right, you should enjoy your leave. There is a lot of pending work in the office but it''s alright, I''ll handle them alone."


    Sitting down beside her, he added, "It would''ve been nice if you would come but I understand."


    Pursing his lips, he frowned. What was he saying? And why? Did he want her to be there so bad? Did he sound very desperate?


    "Hmm but I need to clean all of this too."


    "Why don''t we do this over the weekend?" Without waiting for her response, he continued, "How about this Sunday? I''ll come over and help you out."


    "But I thought you worked on Sundays too."


    "It''s alright, Sundays are quite free and light."


    "Really boss? You''ll help me out?" Ellie asked.


    "Yes I will."


    "Thank you so much, you are the best boss ever."


    Sebastian smiled and asked, "So you are coming tomorrow?"


    "Of course I will, how can I let you handle the workload all by yourself?"


    "Great, let''s watch the movie now." Turning the laptop on, he resumed the movie.


    ¡­..


    Next morning.


    Rubbing her face on the pillow, Elllie frowned, wondering why it was so hard. With her eyes still closed, she got up and scratched her hair and yawned a couple of times.


    "Good morning Ms Miller."


    She gasped in horror before placing her hand on her chest. Turning towards her boss who was scrolling down his phone, she sighed, "You scared me again."


    Keeping his phone on the table, Sebastian got up and picked up his blazer from the other couch.


    Glancing at the watch, Elliet groaned, "It''s just 5 am, why am I awake? And how are you so energetic? We were awake till 4 am. Wait, did you not sleep at all?"


    After watching the last part of the Kung Fu Panda movie series, Ellie urged him to watch a Disney based movie to which Sebastian happily agreed and then one movie led to another, keeping both of them wide awake till dawn.


    When she dozed off with her head on his shoulder, he decided not to disturb her sleep. After completing the movie, he turned off the laptop and started checking his emails.


    "I wake up early."


    "Why? Why would you wake up so fast? Are you a human or a rooster? And we barely slept last night."


    "Habit Ms Miller, I am used to waking up fast."


    "You have no idea how pleasurable it is to sleep until your alarm starts screaming at you. You are missing out a lot of pleasurable and beautiful things in life, boss."


    Sebastian couldn''t suppress his smile when he saw half-awake Ellie mumbling wise words for him.


    Staring at her for quite some time, he squatted down and covered her with the blanket.


    "See you soon Ellie," He muttered before leaving the apartment.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 61 - Birdie

    Stewart International group.


    Sebastian''s office.


    Impatiently tapping his fingers on the desk, Sebastian kept on glancing at her door, waiting for someone.


    "Dude there is¡ªwoohoo what is up with that early morning frown?" Without waiting for his reply, Noah added, "You look stressed, what happened?"


    "Nothing."


    Pausing for a while, he asked, "Were you stuck here all night? Oh my God Seb, don''t tell me you were working all night and forgot to sleep?"


    Running his fingers through his hair, Sebastian sighed. Yes, he was awake for the whole night but he wasn''t working, he was learning how to enjoy his life with Ellie. His clumsy assistant was teaching him and imparting her wise words of how to enjoy life.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled. It sounded so weird in his head but the feeling was incredible. It was actually the first time he pulled an entire night without even thinking about work and that was so unusual of him.


    "Oh my God Seb, you are smiling early in the morning. Are you sure you aren''t possessed or something?" Noah asked.


    Just then Patricia entered the office along with his extra black coffee.


    "Is Ellie here yet?" He asked.


    Placing the coffee on his desk, Patricia answered, "She is on leave boss."


    "Look at you Sebastian, you scolded that poor little one in front of everyone so bad that she had to take a break and now you are asking about her? You can''t scold her more." Noah retorted.


    Glancing at his watch, he frowned. It was almost 9:30 and there was still no sign of her. Did she oversleep?


    Cursing himself for not checking her alarm before leaving her apartment, he started sulking.


    ¡­..


    Park


    Asking the cab to stop right in front of the park, Ellie got down and jogged towards Markus who was sitting on the same bench.


    "Ah little woman, you are here."Patting the empty space beside him, Markus added, "Come have a seat."


    "I am already late for work, so maybe next time and my cab is waiting too. I was just passing by so I decided to see whether you are here or not."


    Looking at her, he smiled, "You look very happy, it seems like you are no longer angry with your boss."


    "Yeah, he apologised so I don''t think so I have a reason to stay angry anymore."


    Raising his eyebrows, he asked, "So your boss apologised to you?"


    "Yup, I wasn''t expecting he would but well¡ª"


    "You have a really different boss."


    Sitting down beside him, she asked, "What do you mean by different?"


    "What? You think that all bosses apologise to their employees?" Without waiting for her reply, he added, "They don''t even if it''s clearly their fault. I mean he is the big boss and he pays you so why would he ever do that? I was a boss in the past and I never did that."


    "But one needs to apologize if it''s his fault."


    "Apologising to the employees is like a big stab on a big boss''s big fat ego and if he really kept his ego aside and took all the pressure to apologize to you then darling, you are special."


    Bursting into laughter, Ellie asked, "You kidding me? Special? That is not true."


    Shrugging his shoulder, Markus added, "Believe it or not but that is the truth."


    "Maybe it is true but my boss is different. Anyway, I gotta rush now otherwise I might get fired for real this time. Hmm when can I find you again?" Ellie asked.


    "Morning 6 to 11 and evening 5 to 8."


    "Wow! You spend almost your entire day here, but why?"


    "Hmm let''s leave that story for some other day but the good thing is, you can find me here whenever you want to."


    "That is great, I gotta go now. See you later Markus, I hope you have a love day."


    "You too little woman."


    ¡­..


    Stewart International Group


    "Good morning Pat."


    "El? I thought you were not coming."


    Ellie chuckled and nodded her head, "I wasn''t planning too but a little birdie told me that there is a lot of pending work which needs my attention so here I am, ready to work my ass off."


    "Hmm, a birdie huh?" Leaning towards her, Patricia whispered, "Is that birdie''s name Sebastian?"


    She chuckled and whispered back, "How did you know?"


    "You kidding me? Sebastian told you that? He asked you to come?"


    "What? Why are you so shocked? I thought already you knew."


    "Ahh obviously I didn''t, that was just a wild, baseless and impossible guess." Pausing for a while, she added, "Is this why he was asking for you?"


    "He was? Ahh I am so late, I''ll go now. See you at lunch Pat."


    "El wait, you can''t go without telling me everything."


    "Later."


    Patricia sighed and helplessly shook her head.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s office.


    "Good morning, I am so sorry for being late. My alarm went off and then my straightener stopped working and¡ª"


    "It''s alright Ms Miller, you''re not that late."


    Glancing at her watch, she sighed, "What? I already missed the first two meetings."


    "Hmm, I don''t think so."


    "What? Ah boss did you forget about the meetings too?"


    Picking up his schedule, Sebastian asked, "How can I miss anything when all the meetings start after 10:30 am?"


    "No they¡ª" stopping midway, Ellie widened her eyes in shock, "Wait what?"


    Walking towards her, he gave her another copy of the schedule. "We are following this starting today."


    Looking at the paper, she widened her eyes in shock. It was the new schedule that she had made for him.


    "This¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian smiled, "A few changes wouldn''t harm right?"


    When she saw his charming smile, her lips curled upwards. He looked more attractive when he smiled.


    When Ellie nodded her head, he added, "So we are gonna follow this starting today unless Ms Miller has a better schedule in her mind."


    "Of course I do, I can definitely make it more flexible."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 62 - A jerk

    Without waiting for his reply, Ellie started firing her curious questions at him.


    "Hmm, so will it be okay if we start the meetings from 11 am? Because you see, the employees usually arrive at 10 am so they obviously need some time to figure everything out and I think you need some time to relax too because you are always stressed. Hmm and then¡ªBoss, do you think if I schedule all the business meetings after lunch instead of scattering it everywhere? Yeah I guess I should do that."


    The way Ellie was questioning and answering herself amused Sebastian. Though she was making changes in his schedule, she still looked so excited and happy.


    What she told him yesterday made Sebastian wonder why couldn''t he live like others do? Well, though he still thought that living a carefree life wasn''t the best thing he could do, he still wanted to take her advice and make slight changes in his life and see how it works. That wasn''t too much, right?


    "Ah there is so much work to do, I''ll go to my office and fix this first."


    "You came straight here? I mean you did not go to your office?"


    Ellie shook her head and said, "No, I came here straightway."


    "Oh, then you should go to your office first."


    "Okay boss, the schedule will be there in your desk as soon as possible."


    Without waiting for his reply, she walked out of the office.


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s office.


    As soon as she entered her office, her eyes landed on a very cute little golden basket which was placed in the center of her desk along with a note


    [''These aren''t your favourite Seattle ones but they are quite famous here so I hope you like them too. Thank you for sharing your favourite movie list with me.'' ~Sebastian]


    A smile bloomed in her face when she read the note. Brushing her fingers through the paper, she sighed. His handwriting was so perfect and flawless. Why was everything about him so perfect? If someone ignores the not enjoying his life part, Sebastian was perfect. He was handsome, loving, caring, smart, hot and he had a beautiful handwriting too.


    Looking at the six packets of neatly placed and ribboned together choco-peanut butter cookies, she chuckled. ''Typical Sebastian,'' she thought before taking a picture of it.


    Looking at the picture, she helplessly shook her head. Even his ribbon bow looked so perfect. Her ribbon bow always ended up looking like a broken egg.


    Thinking for quite some time, she decided to send him a thank you email because she didn''t have his number.


    [Subject:Choco-peanut butter cookie


    Thank you so much, you are the best boss ever[wink] [smile]


    Your hardworking assistant, Ellie Miller.]


    "Oh El, you are here." Giving her a hug, Melissa added, "I thought you had taken a leave."


    "I did take a couple of days leave but then I decided not to stay at home and slack."


    Touching her forehead, Melissa frowned, "You aren''t sick right? I mean did you just say that you didn''t want to slack? Like you? No slacking? Did the cyclone hit you that hard?"


    Rolling her eyes at her best friend, Ellie sat down in her chair and started working on the schedule.


    "Wow cookies-ouch."


    Slapping Melissa''s hands away, Ellie snapped, "Don''t touch them."


    "But why? And this basket looks so cute¡ªwait, is this a gift? Wow, who gave you this?"


    Scratching her neck, Ellie awkwardly cleared her throat and thought for a while before saying, "No one, I bought them."


    "Oh come on El, you think you can lie to me? Like it''s me girl, I know everything about you."


    Ellie rolled her eyes and sighed, "Fine fine, boss gave me these cookies."


    "Wow, but why would that douchebag send you these?" Melissa asked before carefully examining the basket and the cookies.


    Ellie frowned and asked, "Douchebag? Why would you call him that?"


    "Because he is a that, oh come on El we both know that he is a jerk."


    "A jerk? Seriously Mel, how can you call him a jerk? How would he feel if he hears it?"


    "What? How would he hear us? I mean I guess he can if he has those special bat ears."


    "Mel stop it, what if he is passing by and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Melissa frowned, "Wait, why would your ex-boss pass by our office?"


    "Ex-boss? Where the f.u.c.k did that come from?" Ellie asked.


    "What? You are the one who brought him up. You said that your boss gave you¡ª"stopping midway, Melissa widened her eyes in shock. "Don''t tell me that Sebastian gave you these."


    When Ellie did not say anything, she added, "Oh my God this is so unbelievable. Wait, what exactly happened between you and Sebastian after he lashed out at you?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie said, "He stopped by to apologize."


    "HE DID WHAT?" Melissa shouted.


    "Good lord Mel, my eardrums almost freak out. I could hear your yelling and screaming from the elevator." Looking at the cookies, Ava excitedly squealed, "Ahh cookies¡ªno wait a sec, this is so strange."


    "What strange?" Melissa asked.


    "Today in the morning, Sebastian was hiding something from me which made me very curious. So I sneaked into his room when he was taking a shower and I saw the exact same basket on his bed. Ahh it had the same blue ribbon too."


    "Ava, guess who gave Ellie this cute little gift."


    "Who?" Ava asked.


    "Sebastian."


    "WHAT? Ah so this was for you." Pausing for a while, Ava added, "Wow, this is so strange. Sebastian is not a gift person, I mean he never gave me any gift as well."


    "Ava is right and during birthdays, he would give us cash but not gifts."


    Crossing her arms in her chest, Ava raised her eyebrows. "So are you telling us what is going on or do you want us to force you?"


    "Uh huh, start spilling girl. We are dying to hear what exactly happened after Sebastian dropped by in your place."


    Ava gasped and widened her eyes in shock, "Ah so he was at your place for the entire night."


    "WHAT? He was there for an entire night and you did not tell me?" Melissa shouted.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 63 - Charlotte Adams

    "What are you both so excited about? Boss was stuck because of the cyclone." Pausing for a while, Ellie added, "And it''s not like something happened between us."


    "Nothing happened? Ahh sure I believe you. You both were together for an entire night and nothing happened."


    "Hard to believe." Ava added.


    Ellie rolled her eyes and helplessly shook her head, " You guys are overthinking. I mean what could possibly happen between us?"


    "Why not? My brother is handsome and you are beautiful, s.e.xy so anything can happen between the two of you."


    "Nothing happened okay? We just watched movies and that''s it." Ellie didn''t want to feed them with details because she knew that if she did, they would go and tease Sebastian which would make him feel uncomfortable. The sweet little talk that they had last night and the zero knowledge that Sebastian had about snakes and ladders would remain a secret between the two of them.


    "Movies huh? What kind?" Melissa asked.


    "Kung Fu Panda and Frozen."


    Looking at each other, Melissa and Ava started laughing out loud.


    "Oh my God El, you gotta be kidding me."


    "And here I thought you would say fifty shades of grey."


    "What? Why are you both laughing so hard? It was fun okay? We genuinely had fun." Ellie retorted.


    "Oh El, do you think that Sebastian really enjoyed watching those childish movies?" Melissa asked.


    "I know right? I know my brother and there is no way he would''ve enjoyed watching them." Ava added.


    "Well, boss did enjoy them." Ellie snapped


    "Hmm I am sure that he did enjoy watching it with you."


    Rolling her eyes at them, Ellie sat down in her chair and started working on the schedule, completely ignoring Melissa and Ava who were still giggling and laughing.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s office.


    Looking at the doc.u.ment which had to be reviewed, Sebastian sighed. He had so many things to do and he couldn''t stop thinking whether Ellie would like the cookies or not.


    Yes, he couldn''t stop himself and his damn hands from buying a few packets of cookies for her. He also couldn''t say ''No'' when the sales lady suggested him to buy a basket and a ribbon which would make it look like a special gift.


    ''Would she like it? What if the cookies don''t taste good?'' Cursing himself for not tasting them before giving it to her, he massaged his forehead.


    "Boss, may I come in?"


    "Yes please come in."


    "Here is your schedule, it''s all ready." Passing him the paper, Ellie added, "We don''t have many meetings today so why don''t you go home early and take some rest?"


    "No its okay, I''ll be fine."


    "Well, you don''t look okay. Like I slept for good three hours and yet I am feeling so lethargic but you didn''t sleep at all." Pausing for a while, she added, "Always remember that health is wealth."


    Going through the schedule, Sebastian chuckled. "Hmm I don''t remember master Oogway saying that."


    "Ah this isn''t master Oogway''s wise words, it''s something that my parents have always taught me." Pausing for a while, she added, "Thanks for the cookies."


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, Sebastian said, "Your welcome. I heard that they are quite good so I thought that may be you will like it."


    "Hmm, I did send you a mail thanking you for it but I guess you did not check your mail box yet. I wanted to send you a text but then I realised that I don''t have your number so¡ª"


    Giving her his card, he said, "Send me a text so that I can save your number too."


    "Ya sure and the meetings will start in fifteen minutes." When Sebastian nodded his head before massaging his forehead, Ellie added, "Do you want a cup of coffee?"


    "I guess I need one."


    "I''ll get one for you."


    ¡­..


    Nelson mansion.


    With her green-cuc.u.mber sheet face mask on, Charlotte Adams was busy admiring her manicured nails.


    "Ah so perfect." she muttered before patting her fingers on the mask and pulling it off.


    "Honey, where are you?" Mr Albert Nelson called his niece out.


    "Uncle Nel, I am up here." She shouted.


    "There is my princess, oh is it your face mask day today?" He asked.


    "I don''t need a day for that but ohh check this out uncle," showing him her nails, she added, "Aren''t they heavenly and beautiful? Just like me?"


    Taping her nose, he vigorously nodded his head, "Yes, just like my beautiful niece."


    " I need to go to the spa today." She then, sighed and helplessly shook her head, "It was such an awful morning."


    "Awful? What happened honey?"


    Pointing towards a small little reddish dot on her face, Charlotte squealed, "I woke up with this in the morning."


    Taking a closer look, uncle Albert frowned, "What is that honey? Looks like a red freckle."


    "Ahh no uncle, that is a baby pimple. I need to kill it because it grows up and starts reproducing, making me look like a pineapple."


    "Hmm but honey, you need to meet someone today remember?"


    Moisturizing her legs with her expensive cocoa butter body yogurt, she asked, "Who?"


    "Remember aunt Rebecca? The one who visited us last week?"


    "Hmm, the one that had applied too much of everything in her face? You can ask her to take special make-up lessons from me, I can teach her a few of my fabulous tricks for free."


    "Hmm alright, I''ll let her know but do you also remember that you were supposed to meet her son?" Uncle Albert asked.


    "Not today uncle, it''s a spa day for me."


    "Then when would you like to meet him?"


    "After I kill this baby pimple and my skin is flawless again because there is no way I am stepping out looking this awful."


    "But darling you look beautiful."


    "I know but it''s spa day uncle."


    "Okay so why don''t I meet him today in his office and fix a day for you?" Uncle Albert asked.


    Admiring her nails, Charlotte flicked her golden blonde hair and sighed, "Ya whatever."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 64 - Borrowing

    Sebastian''s office.


    Taking the last sip of the coffee that Ellie had brought for him, Sebastian sighed. Why did the coffee that she made tasted so good? He wanted another cup but how could he get one more? Should he just ask her to make another one for him?


    Looking at Ellie who was busy arranging the doc.u.ments for the upcoming meeting, he sighed. How could he disturb her when she looked so busy?


    Slapping his forehead, Sebastian frowned. He was busy too, he had to review the doc.u.ments before the meeting started and he wasn''t even half way done.


    Looking at the doc.u.ments which were staring back at him, he frowned deeper. What the hell was wrong with him? If it was some other day, he would''ve finished reviewing almost ten to fifteen doc.u.ments by now but today he hadn''t finished a single one. This was actually the most unproductive day of his entire office life.


    "Hmm boss you have an additional meeting with Mr Nelson today after lunch. He had called a while ago and Patricia told me that he is a very important business client so I gave him the afternoon slot. Is that okay?" Elli asked.


    "Mr Nelson? Did he say why he wanted an appointment?"


    Ellie shrugged her shoulders and said, "I really don''t know but I guess Patricia¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he added, "Never mind, just let me know when he arrives."


    "Well hello my brother," Ava dashed into the office, grinning from ear to ear.


    "What are you doing here at this hour?" Sebastian asked.


    "What are you talking about? I have been here since this morning. I was chilling in Mel and El''s office and I was about to leave but Noah asked me to stay for lunch. He is bringing take outs for all of us." Rubbing her stomach, Ava added, "Ah I am so hungry."


    "Ava, I need to talk to you."


    "I swear I did not touch anything in your room. I just examined the basket and left." When Sebastian raised his brows, Ava sighed, "Alright, I saw a hundred bucks on your dressing table. You are rich so I thought you won''t be needing them so I borrowed it from you and bought some churros with it."


    "Firstly, I had no idea you had entered my room and secondly, that is called stealing and not borrowing." Sebastian snapped.


    Slapping her forehead, Ava groaned in frustration, "Ahh why am I so stupid? Alright," sitting down right across the table, she added, "Tell me what is it?"


    "Mom called me yesterday when I was in the office and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Ava chuckled, "Stop lying, I know you were at Ellie''s."


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie turned to the other side and silently groaned in frustration. Great, she was such an idiot. Why did she even tell them about it? Now what would she tell Sebastian?


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, Sebastian reframed his words. "I was at Ms Miller''s place for official work."


    "Pfft from when did watching movies start being considered as official work?"


    Sebastian frowned and retorted, "Do you want me to tell you or not?"


    Placing her finger on her lips, Ava pouted her lips.


    "Mom called me yesterday complaining that you weren''t receiving her calls."


    "Yeah, I am ignoring her."


    "And why are you doing that? You very well know that she will nag you more if you keep ignoring her right?" Sebastian knew his mother''s attitude very well. She was a very egoistic woman and if someone ignored her, she would get all hyped up and would start nagging even more. This is one of the reasons why he always did what she asked him to. He hated being nagged and nudged by her all the time so he ended up doing whatever she wanted.


    "Yes but that doesn''t mean I''ll take her bullshit all the time."


    "Language Ava."


    After taking a deep breath, Ava continued, "I am sorry but you know that she talks shit most of the time. She wants me to date that disgusting guy despite knowing that I am not comfortable around him. Like why? Why would she do that? I am not going to tolerate her shit just because she pushed me out of her v.a.g.i.n.a."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian chuckled, "You do know that you are a caesarean baby right?"


    Snapping her fingers, Ava snapped, "Ah you see, she did not even push me out but it''s different for you. She did push you out so you can take her shit."


    "She told me to make sure that you text that guy and see him every now and then." He added.


    Placing her hand in her chest, Ava gasped, "Did I tell you how handsome you are my charming big brother?"


    "Save that flattery for some other day and write down that guy''s name on that paper."


    "Why? Are you planning to send some thugs to ask him to stop sending me those messages?" Ava asked before writing Nathane''s name in a paper.


    Just then Ava''s phone rang and she excused herself after seeing who it was.


    After Ava stepped out, Sebastian picked up the paper and muttered, "Nathane."


    "Well hello people, we got some hot and tasty lunch for everyone." Spreading the takeouts on the table, Noah added, "Hey Seb, are you eating now or after practicing the Kung Fu skills you learnt yesterday?"


    When Ellie glared at Melissa, she stuck her tongue out and mouthed a ''sorry'' before hiding behind Noah.


    Sebastian gritted his teeth and frowned. Did Ellie tell everyone about everything that they did last night? Couldn''t she keep it a secret? A secret between just the two of them.


    Assuming that she had told about the game too, he tried to defend his dumbness over the board game of snakes. "Well in my defense, the game was¡ª"He stopped mid-way when Ellie placed her finger on her lips and gestured him not to say anything.


    Melissa, who clearly saw what her best friend did, raised her brows in suspicion.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 65 - Pinky promise?

    "What game?" Noah asked.


    "The game¡ªhmm the¡ª"


    "Boss is talking about Kung Fu, he liked it alot." Ellie quickly butted in and rescued her boss from getting busted.


    Glaring at Sebastian who was still glaring at him, she added, "Right boss?"


    "Hmm..ahh.." vigorously nodding his head, Sebastian quickly got into character and agreed with Ellie. "I was definitely talking about Kung Fu."


    "Dude, you are acting weird. Did you eat something unhealthy? Or someone served you the wrong coffee?" Noah asked.


    Ellie sighed and helplessly shook her head. ''So he had a coffee way too?'' she thought. Did she serve him coffee the wrong way?


    "No, I am okay."


    "Okay then, let''s have some delicious lunch and get back to work." Passing everyone their takeouts, Noah asked, "Where is Ava?"


    "She stepped out for a bit to take a phone call." Ellie said before sitting beside Melissa.


    "Seb I bought your regular salad from Twinies." Passing him the salad, Noah added, "We should really take Ellie to Nightingale for the buffet this weekend."


    "El, you are gonna love that place. Their food is so awesome and the place is perfect for taking photographs." Melissa added.


    "Hmm maybe next weekend, I need to clean my apartment this weekend so I am not free."


    "Really? You are doing it this weekend? You can do it some other time and it''s not like you have to clean right away."


    "I need to clean it this weekend Mel but we can go there some other day right? And it''s not like I am going somewhere." Ellie explained. How could she make plans with others when she already had plans with Sebastian?


    Melissa sighed and pouted her lips. "Fine but are you cleaning everything alone? We can help you out."


    "Yeah, we aren''t doing anything this weekend." Noah added.


    Hesitating for a while, Ellie politely turned them down. "It''s alright, I''ll manage on my own."


    Melissa rolled her eyes and retorted, "Sure, the person who falls everywhere can clean her entire apartment alone."


    "Hey, I don''t fall everywhere and I can clean everything alone."


    "Fine El, we will make plans later. You can clean your apartment over the weekend."


    Just then Ava entered the office.


    "Who were you talking to?" Noah asked.


    "Hmm June."


    "Ah so everything good between June and Owen?" Melissa asked.


    "Yeah, it''s going great."


    "Finally, another man joins my club." Noah grinned and added, "I wonder when Sebastian and Calvin will follow my footsteps."


    "We can discuss that later right? I am famished." Opening her takeout box, Ava groaned in satisfaction, "Shrimps, I was craving for them since morning."


    As everyone was busy enjoying their food, someone had a huge frown in his face.


    Looking at the bland green salad, Sebastian felt like throwing it away. What the hell was wrong with him? Didn''t he like eating them? Why did it suddenly taste so bland? Were his taste buds not working because he was sleep deprived?


    Shoving a piece of lettuce into his mouth, he sighed. Though he was eating the salad, he couldn''t stop thinking about the delicious soup and sandwich that Ellie made for him. Damn, the taste and aroma was unforgettable.


    "Dude, aren''t you hungry? What happened?" Noah asked before shoving a big piece of steak inside his mouth


    Shaking his head, Sebastian kept on lazily feeding on his salad.


    ¡­..


    After lunch, Noah and Melissa left to finish off their work and Ava sneaked out because Calvin was waiting for her downstairs. They had planned to spend the evening together.


    Placing her the lunch box she had brought for herself on the table, Ellie said, "I bought this for myself but the takeout was enough for me so you can have it if you want to." Pausing for a while, she added, "I was late so I quickly made some tuna sandwich but I used a special sauce. It''s my mother''s secret recipe and I am sure you''ll like it too."


    "Oh, you sure you don''t want it?" Sebastian wanted her sandwiches so bad but he had to act courteous right? How could he just snatch the lunch box off her hand and start gobbling the sandwiches? That would look very inappropriate and he also didn''t want to ruin his image.


    "I already ate enough so you can have them."


    Without wasting a single second, he grabbed the box and started eating the sandwiches. Damn, he was starving.


    After taking a bite, he closed his eyes and breathed a sigh of relief. This is what he wanted, this is what his taste buds wanted. Would he ever get over these delicious sandwiches and that soup? No, he wouldn''t.


    Ellie smiled and was about to leave when Sebastian called her out.


    "Ms Miller, can you get me some coffee? Only if you don''t mind."


    "Of course, but I have no idea how you like your coffee so¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "Exactly how you made it in the morning."


    She smiled and nodded her head, "Okay, I''ll be back soon."


    ¡­.


    Pantry


    "What is going on between you and Sebastian."


    Placing her hand on her chest, Ellie gasped, "What the f.u.c.k Mel, you scared me."


    "I scared you? You are scaring me Ellie Miller. You are hiding things from me, like from me? Do you even take me as your best friend any more?" Melissa asked.


    "What are you talking about? You are still my best friend."


    "Then why are you hiding things from you?"


    "I have no idea what you are saying Mel and shouldn''t you be working right now?" Ellie asked.


    "That was not the answer I am looking for and do you think I did not see the interactions and gestures between you and Sebastian? Noah is dumb but not me."


    "You are just overthinking okay? There is nothing going on."


    Sticking her finger out, Melissa asked, "Pinky promise?"


    Slapping her hand away, Ellie rolled her eyes, "We are not kids."


    Narrowing her eyes, Melissa gritted her teeth. "See, now I am a hundred perfect sure that you are lying."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 66 - Excited

    Ellie sighed and helplessly shook her head. "You are clearly overreacting okay? There is nothing going on between, under, beneath or above boss and me."


    "Tell me that nothing, like nothing happened when you two were together yesterday."


    "Uh huh, nothing happened." Ellie answered while reminiscing about the fall and how Sebastian had saved her like a hero.


    "Liar you¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ellie said, "I have to leave now okay? I''ll talk to you later."


    "El¡ª" before she could complete her sentence, Ellie rushed out of the pantry.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian office.


    Taking the last bite of the sandwich, Sebastian groaned in satisfaction. Ellie''s sandwiches were surely heavenly for him.


    Just then Ellie entered the room along with the coffee.


    Looking at the empty lunch box, she chuckled, "Looks like I am late."


    Taking the coffee from her hand, he shook his head, "You are right on time." Taking a sip of the coffee, he closed his eyes and smiled. A nice cup of coffee after having the delicious sandwiches felt so satisfying.


    When everyone said that he wasn''t enjoying his life and missing out many things, were they talking about this satisfying feeling after eating Ellie''s sandwiches?


    "I''ll get a different one for your next time."


    "Yes¡ªI mean," awkwardly clearing his throat, he continued, "If you want to then it''s fine."


    "Hmm so you mean that you don''t want them?"


    He widened his eyes in shock and snapped, "What? When did I say that? I like your sandwiches and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Ellie chuckled, "Don''t worry boss, I''ll get it for you."


    Glancing at the watch, she added, "It''s almost time for your meeting with Mr Nelson. I''ll go and see if he is already here."


    ...


    Lewis International group


    Calvin''s office.


    "Like seriously? Sebastian saw those movies?"


    Ava chuckled and nodded her head, "Uh huh, I was shocked too."


    Kissing her knuckles, he sighed, "I am sorry I couldn''t take you out as promised. That meeting was very important and¡ª"


    Cupping his face, she smiled, "It''s alright, I know that work is important too and¡ª" Wrapping her arms around his waist, she buried her face on his neck, "this is so much better than anything else."


    "Woah, I had heard that girlfriends usually go mad when the boyfriend cancels the plans so I had thought that you would lash out."


    Ava frowned and pulled away. "Really? That is what you think of me? How can you compare me to those dumb women who know nothing?"


    Calvin panicked and vigorously shook his head, "No babe, that is not what I meant I¡ª"


    Clutching onto her stomach, Ava started laughing out loud, "Ahh look at your face." Squeezing his cheeks, she added, " You look so cute."


    "What the hell was that Ava? Damn, you scared me." Placing his hand on his chest, he tried to calm himself down.


    "What? Didn''t you say that all girlfriends snap when plans get canceled? I was just showing you how it feels like when a girlfriend actually snaps."


    "Uh huh, now I''ll show you how it feels when a best friend snaps Ava stewart." Crossing her arms in front, June glared at her bestfriend and added, "You are so f.u.c.k.i.n.g dead."


    Owen, who was standing behind her, grinned at Ava and Calvin with a ''I can''t lie to my girlfriend'' expression in his face.


    Turning towards Calvin, Ava frowned, "You told Owen? What happened to not telling anyone about us for sometime?"


    "Well, hmm Owen saw us already so I thought he wasn''t included in that list but he promised he wouldn''t tell anyone." When Ava glared at him, he pointed at Owen and shouted, "He broke the pinky promise."


    "Dude, I thought we agreed on never mentioning pinky promise in front of anyone." Owen shouted.


    ¡­..


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian''s office


    "I think your mother told you about my niece."


    Sebastian nodded his head and said, "Yes she did."


    "Yes so when do you want to meet my niece?" Without waiting for his reply, Albert Nelson added, "How about this weekend?"


    "I am not available this weekend."


    "I think you can squeeze some time out for my niece."


    Sebastian shook his head and said, "No I can''t, it''s something very important and I will be busy all day." Yes, he would be very busy during the weekends with Ellie. He had to help her clean the apartment, eat the delicious food that she will make for him and also watch a movie with her. How could he squeeze in some time from his busy schedule for someone insignificant? He wouldn''t even if he wanted to. His entire weekend was booked for Ellie.


    Cursing himself inwardly, Sebastian frowned. Why was he so excited to spend another day with Ellie?


    Albert Nelson pursed his lips and asked, "How about next weekend?"


    "I am going on a business trip next weekend."


    "Then when do you want to meet her?"


    "You can leave your number and my assistant will let you know if I have a free slot." Sebastian said before taking out a doc.u.ment from his drawer. He then started reviewing it completely ignoring Alberts presence.


    "What kind of behavior is this?" Albert shouted. Sebastian behaviour made him feel humiliated.


    "Please keep your voice down, this is my office not your house."


    Albert gritted his teeth and asked, "Are you forgetting who I am? Nelson Group¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian casually said, "Nelson group shares a collaboration with my company in which your investment is only 30%. So just in case you have forgotten, we are your benefactor. My mother has zero knowledge about what is happening in the company so maybe you are dupe her but it''s not the same with me. You very well know what will happen if my company pulls out all our investments.


    "You¡ª"


    "I have a meeting in 5, don''t waste my time. The door is open so please see yourself out."


    Sebastian''s blunt words were like a stab to Albert''s ego but he decided to suppress his anger because he knew that whatever he said made sense.


    "I''ll wait for your reply then." Albert said before getting up and leaving the office.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 67 - Typical Ellie

    Weekend


    Sebastian''s apartment.


    Staring at his bland coloured shirts, Sebastian frowned. Why was his wardrobe so weird? Why could he not find any proper coloured shirt?


    Cursing himself for not buying proper coloured clothes, he tossed them aside and grumpily sat down on the edge of the bed.


    He was supposed to reach Ellie''s place at 9:30am and it was already 8:30 but he still had nothing to wear. Why was his life so f.u.c.k.i.e.d up?


    "Hey Seb can I¡ªwoah what the hell is this?" Looking at the shirts that were lying on the bed, Ava chuckled, "Are you drunk or something? When did you adapt to my messy skills? Oh my God did you slip in the washroom and hit your head?"


    "What do you want Ava?"


    "Hmm well, I wanted your credit card because mine isn''t working but I guess you need my help here." Picking up a light blue shirt, she asked, "So what kind of a meeting is it?"


    Thinking for a while, Sebastian answered, "Well, it''s a casual meeting with an important person."


    Givibg him a weird look, Ava asked, "Are you sure that you are okay? Since when did your meetings started being casual?"


    "Just tell me what should I wear."


    "Hmmm, let me think." Pausing for a while, she asked, "Where is that denim t-shirt I gifted you on your last birthday?"


    "It should be in the closet." Scanning his eyes through his huge walk-in closet, Sebastian pulled out the t-shirt Ava was talking about. "Do you think this will look good?"


    "You kidding me? You will look stunning. Grab a pair of jeans and set your hair like you usually do..oh and don''t forget to wear a matching watch."


    "Okay and what about shoes? What should I wear?"


    "Wear any casual shoes Seb." Stretching her hands towards him, Ava added, "Card."


    Taking out his card from his wallet, he asked, "Are you sure that I''ll look good?"


    "Damn big bro, you''ll make all women drool even if you are wearing torn rags okay? So just chill and trust your little sister."


    Glancing at the watch, he frowned. He then started pushing her out of the room. "You talk too much Ava, go from here because I need to get ready."


    ¡­.


    Ellie''s place.


    "Arghhh Ellie Miller you are such an idiot." Looking at the wet clothes that she was supposed to wear today, she groaned louder.


    She had already separated the clothes she was supposed to wear when Sebastian would come over but she ended up spilling water all over it the morning.


    Glancing at the watch, she cursed herself and decided not to cry over something that couldn''t be fixed.


    Opening her wardrobe, she pulled out a dress but tossed it aside.


    "Too much." She muttered. She wanted to look good but she didn''t want it to be evident enough for Sebastian to figure out. In short, she wanted to look natural kind of good.


    Grabbing a white baggy top and a pair of black shorts, Ellie nodded her head in satisfaction.


    She then rushed towards the washroom to take a quick shower.


    ¡­..


    9:29 am


    Holding a box of chocolate, a loaf of bread and several packets of potato ch.i.p.s, Sebastian took a deep breath before pressing the doorbell.


    Tying her hair onto a messy bun, Ellie ran towards the door.


    Placing her hand on the door knob, she took a deep breath before opening the door.


    "Good mor¡ª" swallowing the ''ning'' of morning, she couldn''t take her eyes off him.


    This was the first time she was seeing him in casual wear and damn he couldn''t look any better. How the f.u.c.k would she concentrate in cleaning her apartment when he would also be walking around with that handsome and delicious face of his?


    Waving the box of chocolates at her, Sebastian asked, "Ms Miller, are you okay?"


    Coming out of her ''drooling all over Sebastian'' mode, Ellie awkwardly cleared her throat. "Hmm, I am okay."


    "Can I come in?"


    "Ya sure."


    "Ms Miller."


    "Hmmm."


    "How will I enter if you block the door like this?"


    "Ah," stepping into the apartment, Ellie pursed her lips and apologized, "Sorry for that."


    Smiling at the silly yet cute expression on her face, Sebastian said, "It''s alright."


    ¡­.


    Inside the apartment.


    "I bought these for you, I heard these are quite good." Giving her the chocolates, he added, "I also bought your favorite potato ch.i.p.s."


    Taking the chocolate and ch.i.p.s from him, Ellie smiled, "Thank you so much."


    Looking at the bread in his hand, she asked, "Umm what about this? Is this for me too?"


    Waving the bread at her, he awkwardly scratched his forehead. "Hmm I saw this bread on the way so I bought this too. I thought you could make sandwiches for us again."


    "You mean sandwiches for you?"


    "I can have them all."


    Taking the bread from his hand, she chuckled, "I''ll make sandwiches for you first."


    "Okay, I''ll start working then."


    ¡­.


    Inside Ellie''s room.


    Looking at the books whichb were still lying on the same place he had kept them last time, Sebastian helplessly shook his head.


    As he was picking up the books, his eyes landed on a very attractive, old pink diary.


    Placing the books down, he picked up the diary opened it.


    He couldn''t suppressed his chuckle when he read the first page which had a a huge [Property of Ellie Miller, touch it and you''ll be constipated for life]


    ''Typical Ellie,'' he thought.


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, he flipped over the other page.


    [(02/05/2001)


    Oh my God, Craig smiled at me today and I am in cloud nine. When I saw his cute little dimples, I almost lost all my senses. He is the most handsome boy I have ever seen]


    Sebastian frowned and flipped over to the next page.


    [(05/05/2001)


    Craig told me bye today and now I cannot stop squealing. He even waved his hand at me TWICE and¡­..]


    Without reading the complete thing, he flipped over to the third page.


    [(12/05/2001)


    Craig asked me out and...]


    Slamming the dairy shut, Sebastian tossed it aside and gritted his teeth. He hated Craig.


    How important was this Craig that Ellie had an entire diary dedicated to him?


    Grumbling for a while, he made his way towards to dressing table.


    Standing in front of the mirror, he smiled cheekily.


    Gritting his teeth, he grumpily stared at himself. He had no dimples like Craig.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 68 - Flick

    Poking his cheeks, he frowned in disappointment. Rubbing his chin, Sebastian admired his own handsome face.


    So what if he had no dimples like Craig? He was handsome and charming even without them.


    So what if she wrote an entire diary for Craig? It''s not like they are still together or are they?


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, he massaged his forehead. What if they were? What if they were still dating?


    Slapping his forehead, he got up and helplessly shook his head. So what if they are? Why the f.u.c.k would he even care? It''s her life and she could date anyone she wants to. Why is it bothering him so much?


    Looking at the diary, the sourness he was feeling pounced back and he ended up kicking the diary under the bed.


    "Boss, your sandwich is ready."


    Running his fingers through his face, he calmed himself down and stepped out of the room.


    ¡­.


    "Here are your sandwiches and I also have a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice for you."


    Staring at Ellie, Sebastian thought, ''Did she make sandwiches for Craig too? Did she watch movies with him too?''


    "Boss."


    When Sebastian did not say anything, she shook his arm. "Boss, are you okay?"


    Coming out of his stupor, Sebastian nodded his head, "Hmm, I am okay."


    Sitting down, he took a sip of the juice thinking whether he should ask her about Craig or not? Wouldn''t it sound weird if he suddenly started asking her personal questions? She never asked him any personal questions but he wouldn''t mind even if she did. He did not have any Craig or Craigie in his life.


    Sitting beside him, she started eating her share of the sandwiches which she had separated beforehand. "I turned Mel down so she is a bit pissed."


    "You shouldn''t have done that."


    "Umm, I thought it would be awkward if they would be here too. I mean they forced that movie thing out of me and they teased you alot so I didn''t want that to happen again. What if they come here and find out that we actually had pre-planned everything, they will definitely think that there is something going on between us." Ellie explained.


    "Oh so if they assume that something is going on between us, will your boyfriend mind?" He asked.


    "Hmm maybe he would if I had one."


    Taking another bite of the sandwich, Sebastian smiled. There was no Craig in her life which means she was single.


    He had no idea why it felt so good after knowing about her singlehood. The sourness he was feeling was all gone and now he was feeling at peace. The sandwiches suddenly tasted more good than it already was and the orange juice looked so heavenly.


    ¡­.


    12:30pm


    Crashing on the couch, Ellie sighed, "This is why I hate cleaning. It took us two and half hours to clean the living room."


    "You should clean your apartment every now and then because it''s hygienic." Passing her a glass of water, Sebastian added, "You should squeeze some time out for cleaning and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she vigorously shook her head, "I cannot follow a particular schedule for anything because I am not as talented as you. I like living my life freely you know without any kind of piece of paper telling me what I am supposed to do when."


    "I know that you are different and that what makes you unique from others and helps you stand out in the crowd. I am sure that being different definitely feels awesome." He said.


    "You are different too."


    He chuckled and helplessly shook his head, "I don''t think so."


    "Are you kidding me? You are the most unique and different kind of person I have ever met. I mean who lives like you do? Who can be so disciplined like you are? I mean you are freaking awesome boss. May be it''s a strange kind of a different but you still stand out. Okay, wait a sec¡ª" she then ran inside the room and came out holding a magazine. Sitting right next to him, she continued, "I saw this magazine at the airport when I was coming here. Since I was supposed to join your company as your assistant, I thought that I should read more about you so when I saw your picture on the front page, I started reading it."


    Taking the magazine from her hand, he said, "They interviewed me last month but I never knew about this magazine." Pausing for a while, he asked, "So you bought the magazine to read about me?"


    "You kidding me? Why would you buy it when you can just take it from the airport?" Crossing her legs, she added, "It was just lying there anyway so I sneakily kept it inside my bag."


    Throwing his head back, he chuckled and helplessly shook his head. "You do know that is stealing right?"


    "Ahh you are putting it in such a bad way." She retorted.


    Supporting his head on his elbow, he asked, "Uh huh, then how do you put it in a good way?"


    She shrugged her shoulders and explained, "Well, the magazine was lying there all dusty and everyone was touching it with their dirty hands. I am a good employee and I didn''t want my boss''s magazine to get ruined by all the dirt it was exposed to so I decided to rescue the magazine and keep it safe with me."


    Flicking her forehead, Sebastian chuckled, "Hmm only you can come up with things like this."


    Rubbing her forehead, Ellie frowned, "Hey, you can''t flick me like that."


    Flicking her again, he added, "Ahh so you mean like this?"


    When she extended her hand to flick him, Sebastian was enough to grab her wrist. "Duh uh, your arms are shorter to do the flick thing Ms Miller."


    Narrowing her eyes at him, Ellie asked, "Did you just say that I have short arms?" Raising her other hand, she tried flicking him again but when Sebastian caught her other wrist too, she ended up crashing on his chest.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 69 - Soft and comforting

    Ellie winced in pain when her nose hit his chest.


    Letting go off her wrist, Sebastian widened his eyes in shock and cupped her cheeks. "What happened? Let me see."


    Looking at her cute little nose which had turned red, he frowned. "How did you end up hitting your nose like that?"


    Inching closer, he started examining her nose without realizing that his closeness was making her heart beat faster and her stomach giddy.


    "Do you have¡ª" Stopping midway, his breathing hitched when he saw her adorable face squeezed in between his palms. The way she was looking at him with her cute innocent eyes was making him feel nervous and giddy.


    Caressing her cheeks with his thumb, he closed his eyes and sighed. Her cheeks felt so soft and comforting.


    Ellie''s already stiffened body froze when he started caressing her cheeks. Dangerous, the handsome looking man right in front of her was dangerous.


    His eyes, lips, sharp nose and perfect jawline was already giving her a hard time to resist his charms and the pleasant smell of his cologne and his actions weren''t helping at all. In fact, it was making things worse.


    Brushing his thumb against the tip of her nose, he asked, "Does it still hurt?"


    If she said yes, would he kiss her to soothe the non-existent pain that she was feeling?


    Ellie was about to nod her head when the doorbell rang, startling both of them.


    Pulling away, they quickly got up and turned around.


    Slapping her forehead, Ellie cursed herself. What the f.u.c.k was wrong with her? Was she really hoping and thinking that her boss would kiss her? Was she going insane?


    Sebastian on the other hand was equally baffled. Did he just caress her cheeks and nose? Why the f.u.c.k would he do that? But they were so soft and he wanted to touch them again.


    ''Damn Sebastian,'' he silently cursed himself.


    "I-I need to drink some water," Ellie said before rushing towards the kitchen.


    When the doorbell buzzed again, he got up and made his way towards the door trying very hard not to think about Ellie and her silky smooth cheeks.


    When Sebastian opened the door, he widened his eyes in shock.


    Looking around, Calvin aske?, "What the hell are we doing in Sebastian''s office? Weren''t we supposed to go to Ellie''s place?"


    Crossing his arms in front, Noah raised his eyebrows, "Is this why you told me to attend the meeting with the Grochof''s today?"


    "Dude you missed a meeting?" Owen asked.


    "Ahh so this is the casual meeting you were talking about." Grinning from ear to ear, Ava added, "My big brother is finally growing."


    "Boss do you want to have spaghetti for lunch with some chicken soup that I made last¡­.." Ellie swallowed the rest of the words when she saw a whole bunch of familiar grinning and glaring faces.


    Glaring at her best friend, Melissa faked a smile, "Uh huh make some meat balls as well because it goes very well with the spaghetti that you make and I am sure that Sebastian will love it."


    ¡­..


    "We were planning to go out but Noah''s meeting extended so we mutually decided to come here and help Ellie out but who would''ve thought that¡ª" looking at Sebastian Noah added, "She already has such a handsome help."


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, Sebastian tried to defend both of them. "I was doing nothing over the weekend and Ms Miller needed help so I decided to help¡ª"


    "Dude you canceled a meeting and urged me to work over the weekend." Noah retorted.


    "And Sebastian Stewart had no work to do? Why does that sound so weird?" Pretending to think for a couple of seconds, Owen added, "Well, because that only happens in the parallel world."


    "I doubt if this happens there as well. Remember last year when I threw a party over the weekend and he said that he wouldn''t come because he has lots of work to complete?" Calvin asked.


    Trying to make the whole situation a bit lighter, Ellie got up and asked, "Drinks anyone?" Without waiting for anyone''s reply, she added, "I''ll go get it."


    When Ellie rushed towards the kitchen, Melissa followed her saying, "Let me help you El."


    "Ahh me too."


    "I''ll join them too."


    After June and Ava left as well, Noah placed his hand on his h.i.p.s. "What the f.u.c.k is going on?"


    "Going on what?" Sebastian asked.


    "Dude, don''t try to act like an innocent fool okay? What is going on between you and Ellie?"


    "Nothing."


    "So you are here, in a young and beautiful woman''s apartment looking all handsome and charming on Sunday, just like that?" Calvin asked.


    "I am here to help her."


    "Who are you kidding Sebastian? You are my close cousin and my best friend too. Even you know that this is so unusual of you." Noah added.


    Owen nodded his head and asked, "When was the last time I saw wear these casual clothes?"


    Looking at his t-shirt, Sebastian frowned, "What? Am I looking weird? Am I not looking good?"


    With a huge grin on his face, Calvin praised him, "No Sebastian, you are looking very handsome and I am sure that Ellie loved your outfit."


    ¡­..


    Kitchen.


    "Okay stop staring at me like that, you are making me nervous."


    "Oh really? Am I? Am I?" Melissa asked.


    "Geez El, what did you do to my brother?" Ava asked.


    Ellie raised her brows and asked, "What do you mean?"


    "You changed Sebastian." Ava added.


    "Changed? What did I do?"


    "He abandons work to help you out, this is huge."


    "Hmm, I agree with Ava on this one. Like is it just me or brother Seb really looked a bit different?" June asked.


    "Why wouldn''t he look different? That man took almost an hour to select an appropriate outfit for himself and another hour to get dressed. He wrecked his entire closet to find a perfect t-shirt he could wear and why did he do that?" Ava asked.


    "Hmm because he had to help me?" Ellie guessed.


    Ava rolled her eyes and helplessly shook her head, "I grew up with Sebastian El and I swear in the love of God that he never ever abandoned his work or sacrificed anything to help me out with something as unimportant as cleaning my room or my fish pond."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 70 - Cute

    "He never helped Noah and me when we were shifting." Melissa added.


    "I guess he did not even attend your housewarming party or did he?" June asked.


    "You kidding me? Of course he didn''t. We literally called him over twice but he said he had a very important meeting." Looking at Ellie, Melissa continued, "And you say that he came over to help you because he was free?"


    "El you do know that Sebastian is never free right? So if he is here with you then he actually took all the trouble to free his slot for you." Placing her hand on Ellie''s shoulder, Ava smiled, "I think Sebastian is really find of you."


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and chuckled, "What? No, it''s nothing like that okay? May be he is just worried that I stay alone and I am also clumsy so he decided to help me out."


    "And why do you think does he care about you or your clumsiness?" June asked.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie helplessly shook jer head, "You guys are overthinking okay? It''s nothing like that. Now, if you all excuse me I''ll have cook lunch. We did a lot of work and I am sure that boss is very hungry."


    "Ah ha I knew it, you care about him too." Melissa snapped.


    Placing her hand on her waist, Ellie raised her eyebrows, "Why the hell shouldn''t I care about feeding the person who helped me clean my living room? Okay, if you guys can''t help, go and sit outside. Let me cook in peace."


    "Fine, I''ll help you." Melissa grumpily said.


    "Hmm do you need four more hands or you people are good?" ava asked.


    "You both should go and chill outside, I''ll call you if we need help."


    After Ava ans June left, Ellie took out some chicken from the freezer.


    "I thought you were making meat balls?"


    "Yes I am but I am also making some soup for boss, he likes it alot."


    Raising her brows, Melissa added, "Hmm, may be your boss would love it if you strip yourself n.a.k.e.d in front of him."


    "Mel,"


    "Alright, I am extremely sorry. I''ll just keep shut."


    ¡­..


    "Ohh this looks delicious," Rubbing his hands together, Calvin sniffed the juicy meatballs and sighed in satisfaction.


    "El is a great cook. Ahh you should try her sandwiches, they are fabulous."


    Pouring a bowl of soup for Sebastian, Ellie sat down beside him, "Everything is a little less spicy because I had no idea who likes spicy and who doesn''t."


    "Sebastian isn''t a spice lover," Owen commented before taking a sip of the soup. "Oh my God, this is amazing."


    "Damn El, this is fabulous," Ava groaned in satisfaction.


    Taking a sip of the soup, Sebastian smiled. Just like he has fancied it be. The meatballs, the spaghetti everything was so perfect, Ellie was so perfect. Her fantastic cooking skills completely over shadowed her clumsiness.


    "So since the cleaning is already done, what should we do next?" Noah asked.


    "Hmm, how about we watch a movie?" Owen asked.


    Calvin and Noah grinned before turning towards Sebastian.


    "Hey Seb, woul you like to watch a Barbie starred movie?"


    "Or a movie about a Disney princess?"


    Bursting into a laughter, Owen added, "Or Alice in wonderland?"


    Without paying any heed to their teasing comments, Sebastian decided to concentrate on his soup instead. He would rather enjoy the delicious soup than reacting on their silly comments.


    "How about we play a board game?" Ava suggested.


    June nodded her head and agreed. "Hmm that is a great idea but what kind?"


    "How about snake and ladders? We can play that," Ellie suggested with a huge grin on her face.


    "Ah that is a great idea."


    "Geez when was the last time I actually played snake and ladders? Wow, it has been years."


    "Me too."


    "Let''s play after eating."


    When everyone agreed, Ellie leaned towards Sebastian and whispered, "Boss, hmm don''t climb up a snake this time okay?" to which he smiled and whispered back, "Don''t worry Ms Miller, I have been exclusively trained by an expert and I wouldn''t dare to let my teacher down."


    Ellie chuckled and resumed eating her food, trying very hard not to blush or choke on the spaghetti.


    Their cute little interaction did not go unnoticed by Melissa. She smiled, helplessly shook her head while thinking about how Sebastian and Ellie would look like if they started dating officially. They would definitely look super cute.


    ¡­.


    "Okay since we are too many people, let''s divide ourselves into cute little groups." Grabbing Melissa''s hand, Noah added, "So Mel and I, Owen and June, Calvin and Ava, Seb and El."


    "Ah my baby is so smart," Giving him a peck on his lips, Melissa added, "And here''s your reward."


    "Only that? I want a big reward."


    Cupping his cheeks, she brushed their nose together and chuckled, "How about I reward you in bed tonight?"


    Covering her ears, Ellie groaned, "Oh come on you guys, stop with that PDA."


    "Seriously you two, get a room." Ava commented before sitting beside Calvin.


    "You singletons are just jealous." Sitting on Noah''s lap, Melissa added, "And you''ll be more jealous when we win this game."


    "Geez, in your dreams." Pulling June towards him, Owen made her sit in his lap. "We are gonna win this, right babe."


    Giving him a peck on his lips, June nodded her head.


    Looking at Ava, Calvin sighed. Even he wanted his girlfriend to sit on his lap but he couldn''t do that, at least not when Sebastian and Noah were present. He didn''t want them to turn his ass black and blue.


    Understanding what he was thinking, Ava inched closer until their shoulders touched. She then placed her pinky on his before looking at him.


    Satisfied with the cute little gesture, his mood lifted up again. This was so much better than a kiss.


    Arranging the square pieces, Sebastian said, "Just letting you all know that you can''t use the snakes to climb up, you can only use the ladders. The snakes bite you down and ladders take you up."


    Giving Sebastian a weird look, Owen frowned, "Dude, we know."


    "Exactly, we are not small kids okay?"


    "And what kind of stupid person would use the snakes to climb up?" Noah asked.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 71 - Cheating

    "Exactly, who on earth can do that? I mean who can be so dumb to climb up using a snake?" Ellie added, trying very hard not to laugh or smile.


    Sebastian on the other hand smiled and helplessly shook his head. She just purposely called him dumb but did he mind? Surprisingly he didn''t, she could call him whatever she wanted.


    "I know right? Only a retarded person wouldnt know how to play snake and ladders."


    Sebastian frowned and glared at Owen. He wasn''t a retard but may be a little less informed.


    Seeing that Sebastian was pushing himself towards the very edge where he would definitely get busted, Ellie quickly jumped for his rescue. "Alright, let''s start playing."


    "Hmm why don''t we make this game more interesting?" Without waiting for anyone''s reply, Noah added, "Let''s play for money instead."


    Taking out his wallet, he took out a twenty dollar note and placed it on the table. "So since we are divided into four teams, let''s bet twenty dollar from each team which means ten dollars from each player and the team who wins, takes all the money."


    "I actually like this idea,"Ava added before grabbing her purse.


    "Ahh I''ll go get my purse too," Ellie was about to get up when Sebastian stopped her saying, "I have enough cash."


    "But¡ª"


    Taking out his wallet, Sebastian said, "It''s alright Ms Miller, I got this."


    "Dude, when was the last time you paid for me?" Noah asked


    .


    "Exactly when was the last time you paid for us?" Owen asked.


    Ava chuckled and took out some cash from her wallet. "Hmm, I can''t complain about that because he just gave me his credit card without saying a word in the morning."


    Taking the cash from her hand, Calvin shoved it back inside her wallet before taking out his wallet. Giving her an ''I got this'' look, he took a twenty dollar note and placed it on the table.


    Compiling the eighty dollars, Melissa placed it under the board and started rolling the dice.


    ¡­..


    After a couple of hours.


    Squealing in excitement, Ellie grabbed the money and grinned, "Now this is what you call victory people."


    With the proudest look on his face, Sebastian started rearranging the square pieces to the starting point.


    "This is cheating." Owen yelled.


    "Yes, this is cheating." Calvin added.


    Noah frowned and nodded his head. "I agree with them, something really weird is happening here. How the f.u.c.k can you both win eight games out of ten? That is unbelievable."


    "That is what you call having snake and ladders skills." Ellie retorted.


    "One more?" Sebastian asked before rolling the dice.


    "No," everyone shouted in unison.


    "Damn, I cannot believe I lost two hundred dollars in this stupid game," Owen cursed before puffing his cheeks.


    Counting the bunch of ten and twenty dollar bills she was holding, Ellie chuckled, "We should play this again, damn this is actually a very nice way to earn money."


    Getting up, Calvin grumpily said, "Next time, I''ll bring my own game board because I feel this one is cursed."


    "Yes, we should do this again but in a brand new board." Owen added..


    Supporting his head with his head elbow, Sebastian chuckled, "You people always turn grumpy when you lose."


    "We aren''t grumpy," Owen and Calvin yelled together.


    Grabbing his blazer, Calvin gritted his teeth, "This isn''t over and next time I''ll make sure I take back all my money with interest."


    "Ahh are you people leaving already?" Ellie asked.


    "It''s already so late so I guess we are but it was fun today and we should really do this again someday." Giving Ellie a hug, Ava added, "You should cook for me often."


    Ellie smiled and nodded her head. "Sure, I would love too."


    "I guess Sebastian isn''t leaving yet so you both can clean this mess up," Winking at Ellie, Melissa grinned before leaving with Noah.


    ¡­.


    After everyone left, Ellie sat down on the couch and started separating the money into two shares, out of which Sebastian''s share was bigger than hers.


    "We have 640$ so you''ll get 500$ and I''ll get 140$."


    "Why? We were a team and we won together so¡ª"


    "You paid the betting amount every time, even my share so your share is obviously bigger."


    Taking the money from her hand, he merged them together. "You know what? You should keep them all."


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and vigorously shook her head. "No I cannot, how is this fair?"


    "How is it not fair? You were the one who taught me this game so you deserve it."


    "No, that lame excuse is not gonna work."


    Sebastian thought for a while and came up with a wonderful idea. "Hmm why don''t we do something? You should keep the money and when we eat outside or grab a cup of coffee together, you can pay for us using this money."


    She thought for a while and nodded her head in agreement, "Hmm, we can actually do this."


    "Great, so problem solved." Glancing at his watch, Sebastian frowned. It was already 5 in the evening and it was almost time for him to leave.


    "Do you have to go somewhere?" She asked.


    "No I don''t but it''s already 5 and I guess it''s time for me to leave."


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, Ellie nodded her head, "Ahh yes, I didn''t even realize that it''s already evening. Thank you so much for today boss, I surely would''ve been struggling if you hadn''t helped me clean that mess."


    Sebastian smiled and said, "It''s alright, you don''t have to thank me."


    Staring at each other awkwardly for a few seconds, Sebastian reluctantly forced himself to walk towards the door. He didn''t want to leave but he had no reason to stay. How could he possibly tell her that he wanted to stay but he had no specific reason for staying behind?


    Turning the door knob, he sighed and reluctantly stepped out of her apartment. Just then, Ellie called him out.


    "Umm boss." Walking towards him, she leaned against the door and hesitated for a while before asking, "It''s still early so do you wanna watch a movie together from my collection?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 72 - Brownie points

    Sebastian''s heart skipped several beats when Ellie invited him to watch a movie together. He didn''t want to leave and Ellie just gave him a reason to stay back and spend some time with her.


    When he did not say anything, Ellie felt very embarrassed thinking that she was sounding very unnecessarily clingy. Why would he want to stay? And why did she even want him to stay?


    "It''s okay if you don''t want to, It was just a random thought and¡ª"


    Without waiting for her reply, he stepped into the apartment again.


    Sitting on the couch, he asked, "Which movie are we going to watch today?"


    Ellie smiled and quickly shut the door before rushing towards her room to grab her laptop.


    Taking out his phone from his pocket, Sebastian turned it off before tossing it aside. He didn''t want any kind of disturbance while watching a movie with her.


    When Ellie sat down beside him, he took the laptop from her hand. "So what are we gonna watch today?"


    "Why don''t we watch a legit movie today? I mean not Disney."


    "Hmm okay but what kind?"


    Thinking for a while, she said, "There is this movie on Netflix, Five feet apart. I heard that it''s very nice so why don''t we watch that?"


    "I am okay with anything." He would watch anything as long as she was beside him.


    ...


    An hour later.


    Sebastian frowned when he suddenly started hearing sniffing sounds. Looking at Ellie who was wiping her tears, he widened his eyes in shock.


    Pausing the movie, he turned towards her. "Hey, why are you crying? Is your stomach hurting? Do you want to go to the doctor?"


    Placing her hand on her chest, she started sobbing harder. "It hurts so bad."


    Thinking that she is having an acute chest pain or worse, a heart attack, Sebastian panicked. "It''s alright, don''t panic. Just keep taking deep breaths until the ambulance arrives okay?" Picking up his phone, he was about to call the ambulance when she started sobbing harder.


    "No, I am okay."


    "If you are okay then why are you crying?"


    Pointing towards the laptop screen, she said in between her sobs, "They¡­.I¡­.feel¡­.so bad¡­.for...them."


    "Them?Who?"


    Wiping her tears with the back of her hand, she buried her face in her knees. "Stella and Will."


    He frowned and breathed a sigh of relief when he realised that she was talking about the movie characters.


    Patting her head, he tried to console her. "It''s fine, they are fictional. They are not really sick and are not gonna die."


    "But the pain is real."


    Patting her back, Sebastian took a deep breath, "It''s alright, don''t cry anymore. We will not watch these kinds of movies in the future, okay? Now do you want some water?" Without waiting for her reply, he added, "Never mind, I''ll get it for you."


    After fetching a glass of water for her, he started looking for some funny comedy movie.


    "Hmm I guess we should watch Home alone," Sebastian suggested.


    "But we aren''t done with that."


    "No, we are not gonna watch that anymore. You''ll surely end up in the office with swollen red eyes tomorrow and your eyes will hurt too."


    Taking another sip, Ellie stretched her hands to keep the glass on the table but Sebastian grabbed it instead.


    "I''ll keep it in the kitchen."


    Taking the glass from her hand, he brushed his thumb in the corner of her left eyes, followed by the right. "You see, this is why I told you not to cry, your eyes are all red and swollen."


    When she blushed and lowered her head, he took a deep breath and got up before rushing towards the kitchen.


    Placing her hand on her wildly beating heart, Ellie gulped in nervousness. His closeness made her feel very weird but surprisingly, she was liking the weird feeling and sensation.


    ¡­..


    Around midnight.


    After watching the first three Home Alone sequels, Sebastian closed the laptop and sighed.


    Looking at Ellie who was soundly sleeping on his shoulder, he smiled. He was actually very worried about her when he saw her swollen red eyes. He didn''t like seeing her that way. He loved it when she smiled and her smile made him smile too.


    He only felt at peace when she started laughing while watching the other movie.


    Taking a mental note of not watching any tragic or sad movies with her, Sebastian slowly lifted her up in his arms.


    Wait, does that mean he wanted to do this with her again in the future? Was he actually looking forward to having many movies nights with his assistant in the future?


    Walking towards her bedroom, he smiled. Yes he was looking forward to it. He liked spending time with her because it made him feel at peace and forget about all the things that trouble him.


    His smile widened when Ellie snuggled closer and started mumbling something in her sleep just like a small kid. Well, there was definitely no different between ber and a small kid. She was sweet and innocent just like a newborn child.


    Maybe this is why he feels so attached to her because she isn''t fake or pretentious like the other assistant''s that Noah had hired for him. Ellie was different, very different than everyone he was working with. Not only that, she felt different too.


    Placing her on the bed, he carefully covered her with the quilt. Squatting down, he removed a strand of hair from her face and tucked it behind her ear.


    After taping her nose, he got up and started checking the windows. Making sure that everything was locked and safe, he grabbed his phone from the table and left the apartment with a huge grin on his face.


    Sebastian had never experienced so many emotions and had never lived his life this way until Ellie showed up. She was slowly adding colours in his life and also earning brownie points from Sebastian''s heart.


    ...

 Chapter 73 - Slippery

    A few days later, Friday.


    Park


    "You are joking right?" Ellie asked.


    Markus raised his brows and retorted, "What? Are you trying to say that I don''t look like I can do it?"


    "So you really kidnapped Brenda from the aisle? Like seriously?"


    "Uh huh, how could I just sit back and watch that creepy looking man take her away. She was my girlfriend and we had even planned to get a dog together."


    "Didn''t anyone stop you? I mean when you were taking her away from the aisle?" Ellie asked curiously. She had started dropping by the park everyday in the morning and would spend some time talking to Markus about random things before rushing to the office.


    "Ah her father and that would be husband of hers created a ruckus but I was very clever and I knew that they would definitely take her away so we quickly got married in the Same Day Marriage wedding chapel. After getting married, I straightaway took her away for our honeymoon and only returned back after a couple of months." Markus explained.


    She chuckled and helplessly shook her head, "Wow, you are fast and mischievous but you don''t look like that I mean¡ª"


    "Yes yes, I know I look innocent and that is why even Brenda was shocked when I suddenly dragged her out of the aisle."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she asked, " You miss her alot, don''t you?


    He smiled and nodded his head, "Every passing second. You know after she left me, I was devastated. She was my wife and my best bud so when I lost both, I freak out. But then remember one thing that she used to say."


    "What?"


    "It''s okay to not be okay but it''s not okay to be that way." Pausing for a while, Markus added, "You see I wasn''t okay when she left but I know she would never want me to be that way so I stopped being not okay."


    Placing her hand on his shoulder, Ellie smiled, "Brenda is a really lucky woman."


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he smiled, "And so is your boss."


    She widened her eyes in shock and retorted, "Oh my God where did that come from?"


    Shrugging his shoulders, he looked away. "I don''t know what you are talking about little woman."


    "Why do you call me that?"


    "What?"


    "Little woman."


    "Well, aren''t you a little woman?" Glancing at his watch, Markus raised his eyebrows, "Ahh and guess who is late for work?"


    "Oh my God." Grabbing bag, Ellie rushed out of the park yelling, "I''ll see you tomorrow Markus, have a great day."


    ¡­.


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian''s office


    "Ah so when are you leaving?"


    "Afternoon."


    Noah nodded his head and asked, "Ellie is going with you?"


    Arranging the doc.u.ments that he would be taking with him on the trip, Sebastian nodded his head, "Uh huh."


    "Oh really but Mel and El were talking about something for hours yesterday and they even planned a shopping spree this Saturday." When Sebastian widened his eyes in shock, Noah sighed, "Now please don''t tell me that you actually forgot to tell Ellie about the business trip."


    Massaging his forehead, Sebastian frowned, "I think it slipped from my mind."


    "Well, I think your mind has become very slippery these days. Remember how you forgot to clean your desk the other day, how you stained your shirt with the ketchup and how you spilled coffee all over you?" Pausing for a while Noah added, "Dude, what the f.u.c.k is wrong with you?"


    Without paying much heed to what Noah had mentioned, he kept thinking about Ellie and why she hadn''t arrived yet.


    After their second movie night together, watching movies when they were free became a regular thing. After finishing their respective works, Sebastian and Ellie would watch a movie everyday in his office.


    After the movie, they would either go to Ellie''s place or to a restaurant of her choice for dinner. She also started bringing lunch for him everyday which they would eat together.


    He was also loving the new schedule that she had fixed for him. He had a break after lunch and an evening snack break too. He was completely free after 5 o''clock in the evening so he could do whatever he wanted like, watch a movie with Ellie, talk to Ellie, go on a walk with Ellie, think about Ellie and do everything with Ellie.


    The major part of his life and mind was now actually revolving around her without him realizing it.


    "Yo dude, are you even listening?" Noah asked.


    "Hmm, what were you saying?" Sebastian asked.


    "When are you gonna tell her about the trip? I think you should tell her quickly because she needs to pack as well." Without waiting for his reply, Noah added, "Ahh that reminds me of something. Do you remember my business trip to France last year?"


    When Sebastian nodded his head, he added, "I forgot to tell Mel about it and she had to fly with me so I told her a few hours before the flight and she got so mad that she almost kicked me out of the house. Damn, I suffered so much and had to literally beg her to forgive me."


    "But why?"


    "Apparently women need plenty of time to pack and do their own stuff before they leave home for a trip. She got even mad because though she is my assistant, she had zero knowledge about that France trip. So when I told her that such business trips are not included in the schedule because they are confidential and after saying sorry for at least a hundred times, she let me off with a warning."


    "Good morning Boss, good morning Noah," Ellie cheerfully greeted them.


    "Ah good morning El, you look quite happy today. Quick, share the secret." Noah sneakily said.


    Placing Sebastian''s schedule on the table, she chuckled, "No secret, I am just happy."


    "Well I see and I think that you''ll be more happy after hearing what Sebastian has to say."


    Looking at Sebastian, Ellie asked, "What is it boss?"


    Picking up a doc.u.ment from his desk, he quickly gave it to her. "Can you review this for me?"


    "Of course, that is my job boss." Taking the doc.u.ment from his hand, Ellie left.


    "Dude, what the f.u.c.k? Why didn''t you tell her about the trip?" Noah asked.


    "You told me that she would get mad so¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Noah frowned, "What? Why does Ellie get mad? Mel got mad because she is my girlfriend."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 74 - Business trip

    "Dude will you tell me what is going between you and El?"


    "Nothing."


    Raising his brows, Noah said, "Uh huh sure, I can see that literally nothing is going on between you both."


    When Noah gave him a weird look, Sebastian shrugged his shoulders and brushed him off. "I just happen to have some free time and she also happens to be free so we spend some time together watching movies or going out for dinners."


    "Ahh yes that is normal," Shrugging his shoulders, Noah added, "I mean all bosses go hang out with their employees. It''s a universal thing."


    Sebastian sighed and helplessly shook. He did not miss the sarcasm in Noah''s sentence. Even though he knew that this wasn''t something that a boss and an employee would do but he couldn''t help it, he liked spending time with her.


    "You know when Mel and I started spending time like you both, we got into a relationship." When Sebastian frowned at him, Noah added, "Just saying."


    "It''s nothing like that, Ms Miller are just good friends."


    Tapping his fingers on the desk, Noah smiled, "Dude, when did you start being friends with your assistants? I mean didn''t you repel them in the past? I hired hundreds of hot and horny assistant''s for you but no, you won''t even look at them."


    Without waiting for his reply, Noah got up and patted Sebastian shoulder, "But I understand that Ellie is different." Glancing at his watch, Noah added, "Ah it''s time for Melissa''s morning shoulder massage so I gotta go. I''ll see you on Monday."


    "Take care of Ava when I am away and make sure that she eats properly."


    "Uh huh okay, I''ll ask her to come over and stay with us."


    After Noah left, Sebastian thought for a while before walking out of his office.


    ¡­.


    Ellie''s office.


    Ellie was busy reviewing the doc.u.ment when Sebastian came in.


    "Ms Miller¡ª"


    Cutting him off, he said, "I am almost done boss, the doc.u.ment will be there on your table in five."


    "Hmm okay but I am not here for the doc.u.ments," when Ellie looked at him, he added, "I need to talk to you about something."


    She widened her eyes in shock and panicked, "What did I do? Was there some mistake in the report? Is your schedule not right? Did I not arrange the doc.u.ments correctly? Oh my God please dont fire me."


    "Hey hey, relax okay it''s nothing like that."


    "So you are not firing me right?" When Sebastian shook his head, she breathed a sigh of relief. "Oh thank God, you scared me boss. What do you wanna talk about then?"


    "We need to go on a business trip."


    "Business trip? Oh okay but when?" Without waiting for his reply, she added, "And for how many days? Because you see I need to pack and settle down everything in my apartment."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he said, "Oh you don''t have to worry because it''s a small trip just over the weekend. We will leave on Friday and then fly back on Sunday."


    Ellie smiled and nodded her head, "That is even more convenient so when do we leave? Next Friday?"


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, he said, "This Friday."


    She frowned and asked, "Huh? This Friday as in today?"


    Vigorously nodding his head, he glanced at his watch, "Hmm and we have to leave in an hour."


    Widening her eyes in shock, she shouted, "WHAT? Today? In an hour? And you are telling me about it now boss?" Without waiting for his reply, she added, "I have nothing packed and ready. The doc.u.ments that we need to take aren''t ready and the¡ª"


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, Sebastian tried to calm her down, "Hey, relax okay? Don''t panic, we still have an hour in hand¡ª"


    "Only an hour boss, what do expect me to do in an hour? Why didn''t you tell me about it earlier? We are like together all the time, boss but you never mentioned anything about the trip."


    "It''s alright, okay why don''t we do something? You go home and pack whatever you need and I''ll pack the required doc.u.ments. After I am done, I''ll pick you up and then we can go to the airport." Sebastian suggested.


    "But how can I let you do my work? I''ll just quickly arrange the doc.u.ments and then¡ª"


    "Hmm we will get late that way, umm I don''t mind waiting for you but I guess the flight wouldn''t wait for us."


    Massaging her forehead, Ellie sighed, "Alright then, I''ll go home and pack a few things."


    "Don''t rush okay and be careful on the¡ª" stopping midway, he frowned. How could he expect her to be careful? Ellie was so clumsy that she would definitely end up tripping hurting herself.


    "Forget it, I''ll ask the driver to drop you home." Taking out his phone, Sebastian called the driver and asked him to get the car ready.


    "I can take a cab and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he said, "It''s alright, he is already waiting for you downstairs."


    Grabbing her bag, Ellie nodded her head and left.


    ¡­.


    Ellie''s apartment.


    As soon she entered the apartment, she rushed towards her room before tossing the bag on the couch.


    Taking out her mini trolley bag, Ellie opened it on the bed and started collecting everything that she needed.


    "Okay Ellie, make sure you don''t miss anything," she murmured before walking into the washroom and grabbing her toiletries followed by her skin cream and her make up box.


    Placing them inside the bag, she rushed towards her wardrobe and randomly grabbed a pair of black jeans, her comfy night dress and a formal black skirt.


    Folding them neatly, she stacked them on the bed before walking back to the wardrobe to grab a blouse which would go with the skirt and a couple of casual t-shirts.


    Thinking for quite some time, she pulled out a white blouse and two random t-shirts. Just then her phone started ringing.


    Thinking that it''s Sebastian, she quickly rushed out of the room.


    ¡­.


    Living room.


    Placing the blouse and t-shirt on the couch, Ellie took out her phone from her handbag. She sighed when she saw that it was Melissa and not Sebastian.


    "Wuhu, a little birdie told me that someone is going on a business trip."


    "Uh huh well, birdie Noah gave you the right information and¡ªoh damn, boss is calling. I gotta go Mel, I''ll call you later." After hanging up the call, she grabbed her hand bag and rushed inside.


    She then shoved the clothes which were stacked on the bed, closed the zip of the bag and rushed out of the apartment.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 75 - Absent minded

    When Ellie arrived downstairs, Sebastian was leaning against the car reading something on his phone.


    When he saw her, he placed his phone inside his pocket and took the bag from her hand. "I hope you have everything that you need Ms Miller?" He asked while placing it inside the trunk.


    "Yeah, I was extra careful while packing."


    "Great, our flight is at 12:30 and it''s 11:18 already so we need to rush."


    "We wouldn''t have to rush if you didn''t forget to tell me about the trip." She mumbled.


    "Hmm, did you say something?"


    "No I didn''t," Ellie denied before getting into the car.


    ¡­.


    LAX(Los Angeles International Airport)


    As soon as they arrived at the airport, two men dressed in black suits guided them inside the airport and through the security check. They passed through the security check much faster than Ellie had expected it to take. It was actually the fastest security check she had ever experienced.


    "Wow, that was pretty fast," she commented.


    "What?"


    "Hmm the security check, like I had expected it to be fast because it''s you but not so fast."


    Sebastian chuckled and asked, "Are you complaining?"


    "What? When did I complain?"


    "Well, that tone sounded like you were." He said before getting into the car which would take them to his private jet.


    Frowning at him, Ellie quietly followed him behind.


    ¡­..


    Looking at the jet, Ellie widened her eyes in shock. "Woahh, do you own this?"


    "No I don''t, I stole it from someone yesterday so if you see another plane following us from behind do tell me because that might be the police." He whispered.


    She frowned and was about to retort when the pilot approached them and greeted Sebastian.


    Swearing to get back on him later for making fun of her, she puffed her cheeks and boarded the plane along with him.


    ¡­..


    Inside the private jet.


    Though the jet looked small, it was quite spacious and luxurious from the inside.


    Settling down in one of the seats, Ellie sighed. ''Being rich isn''t that bad but being Sebastian rich feels heavenly,'' she thought.


    "It''s a 1 hour 21 mins journey," Sitting down beside her, he added, "Fasten up your seat belts Ms Miller."


    After fastening up her seat belt, she asked, "So what is this trip about?"


    "It''s with one of our oldest clients Mr Timbleton, we are planning to start another collaboration together but this time in San Francisco. Mr Timbleton''s company will be in charge of the construction while we will be doing the marketing. We are going there to discuss a few things and sign a contract."


    Running her fingers through the belt, Ellie asked, "Why wasn''t this trip mentioned in your schedule?"


    "For confidentiality purposes, this trip isn''t mentioned anywhere so I was supposed to tell you about it personally but it slipped my mind." Pausing for a while, he added, "I am sorry for not telling you earlier."


    "You don''t have to apologize, you are my boss so it''s completely fine. Hmm I think I am partly at fault too."


    Sebastian frowned and asked, "How?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she hesitated for a while and said, "Hmm I think I have been engaging you alot with those movies and games, I mean I know you have lots of work to do but yet¡ª" Biting her lower lip, she added, "I even heard Ava and all saying that you are very distracted and not very focused at all these days so I thought that¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he vigorously shook his head, "No, it''s not your fault. It''s not like I forgot about the trip because of the movies or games. It just slipped my mind so you are just overthinking and I love watching movies with you¡ª" realising what he had just said, he quickly reframed his words, "I mean, I like watching movies in my free time and that board game is very addicting so it''s definitely not your fault."


    "Oh, so I guess I was worrying for nothing."


    "Uh huh, for nothing."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie called him out, "Boss."


    "Hmm,"


    Smiling at him, she said, "I love watching movies with you too because you are the first person who doesn''t move away or snaps at me when I hit you while laughing so it''s fun."


    ¡­.


    Twenty-minutes later.


    Sebastian chuckled when he realised that Ellie had actually fallen asleep on his shoulder again.


    Just then the air assistance approached them but Sebastian gestured her to keep quiet and leave.


    Carefully wrapping the cover over her shoulder, he smiled and took a deep breath. Why did it always feel so peaceful and happy when she was close?


    "You love watching movies with me but I watch movies only with you." He murmured before resuming reviewing the doc.u.ment.


    ¡­..


    San Francisco


    Hotel Montana Heritage.


    Outside room 705


    "This is your room and¡ª" passing her the key card, Sebastian added, "This is your key card."


    Taking the card from his hand, Ellie said, "Thank for this and I am so sorry for that."


    Looking at the huge wet patch on his white shirt, he smiled, "It''s alright, I have an extra shirt."


    Massaging her forehead, she sighed, "I don''t know how I feel asleep and¡ª"


    "It''s alright Ms Miller, don''t stress over it. You should go in and freshen up first. Since the meeting is tomorrow and we currently have nothing to do, let''s go outside for a walk okay?"


    She smiled and nodded her head, "That sounds great."


    "I''ll see you soon then," Sebastian said before walking towards his room.


    ¡­.


    Inside Ellie''s room.


    Excited to go out and explore the city with Sebastian, Ellie decided to take a nice warm shower first.


    After taking a shower and moisturizing herself well, she opened the bag to take out her clothes.


    She gasped in horror when she realised something. "Oh my God, please please no¡ª" tossing everything out of the bag, she groaned in frustration and sat down on the edge of the bed cursing herself for being so absent minded.


    "Stupid, idiot, good for nothing Ellie," she snapped at herself for forgetting to pack the blouse and t-shirt that she had sorted out.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 76 - Thin

    Blaming and cursing Melissa for distracting her, she groaned in frustration. How is she supposed to go out with Sebastian when she has nothing to wear?


    Lying down on the bed, she sighed. Now she won''t be able to explore the city with him and that feeling was making her mood more sour.


    Just then someone knocked at the door making Ellie feel more awful. She knew who it was and now she was wracking her brains to figure out what kind of excuse she could come up with without highlighting her carelessness in front of Sebastian.


    Pacing back and forth in the room anxiously, she kept thinking about different kinds of ways to turn him down with a heavy heart. But what if he gets mad and stops talking to her?


    ''Let''s be honest,'' she thought before taking a deep breath and opening the door.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian on the other hand was getting very anxious and worried for her when she did not open the door.


    ''Did she slip in the bath tub?''


    ''Did she faint?'' ''


    Did she fall down again?''


    With several heart wrenching questions revolving in his mind, he was about to call her when the door opened.


    With her hair tied up in a messy bun, Ellie stood by the door wearing her bathrobe, looking at him in a very embarrassed manner.


    "What took you so long? I thought you slipped or something." Glancing at his watch, be added, "its already past lunch time, aren''t you hungry?"


    Biting her lower lip, she thought for a while and said, "Hmm I don''t think so I can go out."


    He frowned and asked, Why? I thought you wanted to go for a stroll too." Was she turning him down? Did she not want to hang out with him anymore?


    "Yeah I want to but¡ª" massaging her forehead, she sighed, "I can''t."


    "But why?"


    "I¡ªforgot to bring my clothes."


    Sebastian breathed a sigh of relief and said, "Thats fine but¡ªwait what?" Frowning deeper, he asked, "You forgot what?"


    When Ellie did not say anything, he crossed his arms in the front and rised his brows. "Clothes? You forgot to bring your clothes? Like seriously? How can one forget to pack their clothes when they are travelling?"


    "Hmmm, I do have a pair of jeans and a skirt so I did not completely forget to bring my clothes."


    "Only bottoms? What about your tops? No tops?"


    Awkwardly scratching her forehead, Ellie explained, "I was packing everything carefully when Melissa called me and my bag was on the couch so I had to go there. I kept the clothes on the couch and answered the call. Then you called me so I rushed in packed whatever I could and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he added, "Great, you left your tops on the couch."


    "Yeah so I can''t go out wearing only jeans right?"


    "What about the one you were wearing?" He asked.


    "I''ll be needing that tomorrow so I can''t wear them." Pausing for a while, she added, "I know I am a bit absent minded but nothing is gonna happen if you scold me so please don''t."


    "So you are not gonna go?" When Ellie shook her head, Sebastian nodded his head and left.


    When he saw her walk away, she frowned, "Wait, you are going?"


    "Yes, why? Do you want something Ms Miller?"


    She shook her head and said, "Nothing, have fun."


    Without saying anything, he started walking towards the elevator making Ellie feel more sour and frustrated.


    Closing the door, she grumpily strolled towards her bed and sat down with her arms crossed in the front. How could he just leave without her? Couldn''t he just stay with her and watch a movie or something?


    Groaning in frustration, she gritted her teeth. "Why on earth will he stay with you Ellie?" She mumbled.


    ¡­.


    Shopping Mall


    Looking around, Sebastian frowned when he couldn''t figure out from where was he supposed to buy appropriate clothes for Ellie.


    He had never bought clothes for himself let alone buying it for a woman so he feeling very lost and retarded.


    When Ellie told him that she couldn''t go out with him because she didn''t have any clothes, he decided to buy something for her to wear. How should he let a couple of forgotten clothes ruin their trip, right?


    At first, he had decided to find a appreciate women clothing store where he could find something for her but later when the lady attendee from the reception told him about a store, he ended up coming to mall which was not too far away from the hotel.


    Standing outside the H&M, he hesitated for a while before entering the store.


    ¡­..


    Inside the store.


    Sebastian massaged his forehead when he saw the big store stacked with clothes. There were many women who were happily and carefully selecting the perfect outfit from them.


    Looking around when he did not spot a single man in the entire section, he felt more awkward and out of place.


    "How can I help you sir? This is the women''s section, let me guide you to the men''s section." A female store attendant politely said.


    "No, I want something from the women''s section."


    She smiled and nodded her head, "Sure sir, what would you like you buy?"


    Thinking for quite sometime, Sebastian frowned when he realized that he gad no idea what kind of clothes Ellie would like to wear.


    Noticing his hesitation, the sales attendant suggested, "Why don''t I show you a few of our best newly arrived collection and you can choose from them accordingly?"


    He nodded his head and readily agreed, "Yes, that will be more appropriate."


    Guiding him towards their new collection section, she asked, "May I know the size?"


    He thought for a while and answered, "She is thin."


    Giving him a awkward weak smile, she elaborated her question a bit. "No I mean, the size of her clothes like is it small, medium, large or¡ª"


    "I don''t know but she is thin so may be small."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 77 - Touched

    The sales attendant smiled at him and explained, "Sir, being thin doesn''t mean small size. There are other factors that one has to keep in mind like her hip and b.r.e.a.s.t size."


    ''Her b.r.e.a.s.t size,'' Sebastian gulped and tried to brush off the image of her red lacy bra he had seen in Ellie''s room weeks ago from his head. He shouldn''t be thinking about Ellie''s bra or her b.r.e.a.s.t size, it was wrong and very inappropriate.


    "Mmm if you aren''t sure then we can go for small." Without waiting for his reply, she added "You can always exchange it later."


    When he nodded his head, the sales attendant started showing him the new collection.


    ¡­.


    An hour later


    Hotel Montana Heritage.


    Ellie''s room.


    Still grumpy and upset over that fact she couldn''t accompany Sebastian for a stroll and he also left alone without any hesitation.


    Picking up her phone, she thought for a whole before tossing it aside. Why should she call him? He was definitely having fun exploring the city alone, without her.


    Glancing at the watch, Ellie groaned. It was almost half past three and she still hadn''t eaten anything.


    Brushing away Sebastian and everything related to Sebastian out of her head, she made her way towards the hotel phone to order something when someone knocked at the door again.


    Assuming it to be someone from the room service, she lazily made her way towards the door and opened it only to find Sebastian standing right in front of her holding a bunch of bags.


    "Boss¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he made his way into the room and sat down on the couch before taking a deep breath. Who would''ve thought that shopping was such a tedious task? After carefully examining everything that the sales attendant showed him, Sebastian ended up selecting five tops, three dresses and a bag which the lady attendant told him would go well with the dress.


    "What happened? You look so tired." Passing him a glass of water, Ellie asked, "Are you okay?"


    Gulping down the entire glass in one go, sighed and nodded his head, "Yeah I am fine."


    When Ellie saw the bags which had the H&M logo on them, she chuckled, "You are tired after shopping."


    "I don''t understand how Ava goes shopping everyday, I mean-who can do this everyday?"


    "Well, shopping for us women is the same as working for you. Like you never get tired of work, we never get tired of shopping. Now quickly show me what did you buy boss," Ava asked.


    Picking up a bag which had the dresses, he gave it to her and nervously waited for her reaction. He had no idea whether she would like them or not but he wanted her too. After spending an hour selecting everything for her, if she first likes it, he would definitely feel sad.


    Taking out the dresses from the bag, Ellie smiled, "Wow, these are beautiful, Ava is going to love them."


    "You like them?"


    "They are beautiful, I never thought you had such a great taste in clothes." Brushing her fingers against the baby pink dress, she smiled.


    When he saw her admiring the dresses, he proudly smiled and gave her the other bag too.


    "You bought so many? You are such a sweet brother boss, Ava is so lucky."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian chuckled, "You think Ava is going to wear anything that I buy for her? That girl will surely end up exchanging even the hair band that I''ll get for her Ms Miller. You know Ava right? She has her own taste for clothes and accessories."


    "Oh then whom did you buy these for?" She curiously asked. As far as she knew, Ava was the only sister he had so if it wasn''t for her then whom? Did he buy all of this for someone special?


    She cringed at the thought of Sebastian buying something for his special someone. For some odd reason, it made her feel unhappy and sour.


    "It''s for you."


    "Oh that is¡ªwait what?" Widening her eyes in shock, she stared at him, trying to figure out if whatever she had heard was right.


    When she gave him a shocked and confused look, he smiled and repeated himself. "I said that I bought these for you." Without waiting for her reply, he added, "You didn''t have any clothes to wear right? So I bought this for now why don''t you go and get dressed so that we can go out and grab some lunch, I am so famished."


    "What..wait, I don''t understand." Looking at the brand new clothes, she asked, "You bought these for me?"


    When he nodded his head, Ellie sighed and placed her hand on her chest, "Oh my God boss, you didn''t have to and this is too much, I can''t take them."


    Sebastian frowned and asked, "Why not? I bought them for you so just keep them okay?"


    "But¡ª"


    "No ifs and buts Ms Miller, just keep them. Take it as a token of lo¡ª"stopping midway, he rephrased his sentence, "Take it as a token of payment for teaching me how to play snake and ladders."


    Looking at him, she asked, "Were you shopping the whole time you left? For me?" When he nodded his head, she smiled at him. "Thank you so much, I feel so touched and you are the best boss ever."


    Smiling at her, Sebastian said, "Get dressed, we need to go out and eat. I''ll come back after sometime."


    After he left, Ellie couldn''t stop herself from staring at the clothes and smiling like a fool. The thought of cute Sebastian standing in the women''s section selecting clothes for her with a slight frown on his face made her chuckle and blush. Though she was a bit disappointed that she missed such a handsome sight, she still didn''t want to complain.


    Picking up a dark blue t-shirt from the pile, she danced her way into the washroom. Now she was not only excited for the stroll with Sebastian but also to wear the clothes he had personally bought for her.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 78 - Awful and sour

    Next day.


    9:00 am


    Taking a bite of the sandwich, Ellie asked, "What happened boss, why aren''t you eating?"


    Placing the sandwich on the plate, Sebastian sighed, "Doesn''t this sandwich feel weird to you?"


    "Weird? I don''t think so."


    Rubbing his stomach, he frowned, "It feels so weird and raw."


    "Raw? The salami tastes good and the sauce is okay too." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "What happened? Yesterday you were complaining about the spaghetti and the soup and now this, are you not feeling well?"


    Forcing a bite of the sandwich, he shook his head. "I am fine, it''s just I don''t know." How would explain it to her that nothing tastes good apart from what she cooks for him these days?


    "Hmm maybe because you have been eating too many sandwiches lately so now you are done with them?"


    "No, no I am done with these sandwiches but not the ones that you make."


    She chuckled and asked, "Boss, are you saying that you just like the sandwiches that I make?" She was just joking with him but who would''ve thought that Sebastian would really nod his head.


    "Don''t get me wrong but your sandwiches are lovely," swallowing ''just like you'', the three words that he wanted to say, he added, "Everything else feels bland."


    "Why don''t you eat them for now and I''ll make more sandwiches for you later?"


    He smiled and nodded his head before forcing himself to eat the weird look sandwich.


    ¡­..


    Palette Frita.


    "This way Mr Stewart," a waiter guided them towards the table where Mr Timbleton and his assistant Thomas were waiting for them.


    When he saw Ellie trying to find something from the flies while walking, he sighed and helplessly shook his head. Taking the file from his hand, he said, "This is the reason why you trip and fall. One should always look at the front and be careful while walking."


    Pausing for a while, he added, "Now do I even have to teach you how to walk Ms Miller?"


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her hair, Ellie shook her head, "No boss, I was checking if we have everything."


    "Don''t worry about that, I personally checked and packed the files, not someone who forgets to pack their clothes while traveling."


    She frowned and puffed her cheeks, he was making fun of her again.


    "There you are young man, right on time." Giving Sebastian a hug, Mr Timbleton chuckled, "As usual, you are never late."


    "And you are always before time," Sebastian added.


    Letting out a hearty laugh, Mr Timbleton pulled away and patted Sebastian''s shoulder, "You have no idea how overwhelmed I feel when I do business with you. It feels like I am meeting the young version of your grandpa again."


    "It feels lovely working with you too." Turning towards Ellie, Sebastian added, "She is Ellie Miller, my assistant."


    "Ahh I see you got yourself a beautiful one there young man." Extending his hands for shake, Mr Timbleton smiled, "It''s a pleasure meeting you Ms Miller."


    Taking his hand, Ellie smiled, "It''s a pleasure meeting you too"


    "This is my assisting Thomas and¡ª" Mr Timbleton raised his brows when he saw his assistant in a daze. Shaking his shoulder, he called him out, "Thomas?"


    "Ahh¡ª" awkwardly clearing his throat, Thomas said, "I am so sorry, I spaced out."


    "Alright then, let''s start talking business. Why don''t you and Ms Miller sit right over there and exchange the graphics details and pointers while we discuss other things." Mr Timpleton said.


    "Yes sure boss," Turning towards Ellie, Thomas smiled, "After you Ms Miller."


    Sebastian frowned and gritted his teeth when Ellie and Thomas walked away together. He did not fail to notice the way Thomas was looking at Ellis and it was very disturbing. Why would he look at her like that? How dare he smile at her? And why did she walk away with him? With several meaningless yet bothering questions revolving around his head, he was feeling awful and sour.


    "What? Are you spacing out now?"


    "No, I am fine."


    "Alright then, please make yourself comfortable."


    After settling themselves down, Mr Timbleton started telling him the progress of the project while Sebastian couldn''t stop himself from looking at Ellie and that other stupid man who was definitely trying to flirt with her.


    "So where are you originally from?" Thomas asked.


    "I am from Seattle."


    "Ah what a coincidence, I am mom is from Seattle too. In fact, I spent half of my childhood there."


    Ellie smiled and asked, "Oh so where is your mom from Seattle?"


    ¡­..


    Tightening his grip around the wine glass, Sebastian gritted his teeth in annoyance. The last string of his patience shattered into millions of pieces when Thomas brushed his fingers against Ellie arm''s and she said nothing.


    "So what do you think?" Mr Timbleton asked.


    "Yeah I think that is a great idea."


    Mr Timbleton chuckled and asked, "Hmm so selling your company to me for a dollar is a great idea? Impressive, so why don''t you get the papers ready and I have a dollar right in my pocket."


    Sebastian widened his eyes in shock and awkwardly scratched his forehead, "Oh, I thought you were talking about the project."


    "I was but I stopped when I realised that I was talking to myself."


    "I don''t think so there is anything to discuss because we both know what to do." Taking out the contract from the file, Sebastian added, "This is the contact, you can go through, sign it and send it over later. If you aren''t sure about anything, just give me a call."


    Without waiting for Mr Timbleton''s reply, Sebastian got up and started walking towards Ellie.


    ¡­.


    "And then I tripped on¡ª"


    Cutting Thomas off, Sebastian said, "Let''s leave."


    "Oh, it''s done? So fast?" Ellie asked.


    He frowned and asked, "You wanted it to last long? You can stay if you want too."


    Not liking the tone Sebastian was using, Ellie slightly frowned. Wondering what might''ve happened to him, she got up and started gathering her things.


    "You are leaving? Hmm can I get your number? I mean I can complete my tripping story over the text and you can completely yours." Thomas asked.


    Gritting his teeth, Sebastian turned around and stormed out of the restaurant, leaving Ellie behind.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 79 - Wronged

    Outside.


    Angry, Annoyed, frustrated, irritated. There was nothing that Sebastian wasn''t feeling at the very moment. He was already feeling very raged when he saw Thomas and Ellie happily talking to each other but he completely lost his mind when he asked for her number and she did not reject him.


    Why the hell would he ask for her number and why wouldn''t she reject him? Did she like him? Did they hit off well? Did she like him because Thomas was making her laugh while he was boring and always serious? Did Ellie like jolly men and not serious men like him? And why was she still inside? Was she giving him her number for real?


    He frowned and gritted his teeth, she never gave him her number. In fact, he was the one who gave her his number first and then she messaged him. Why would she not give him her number but to Thomas?


    With so many questions revolving in his head, Sebastian was feeling more annoyed and angry. Only if he could break that stupid guys head who was trying to get all touchy with her.


    "Boss wait," Ellie shouted before rushing towards him, rubbing her elbow which was already swollen and red.


    After hastily turning Thomas down, she quickly gathered her things and rushed after him but she ended up tripping on the nearby table and hurting her elbow really bad.


    Mr Timbleton and Thomas helped her up and asked the waiter to get some ice to apply on her elbow but Ellie didn''t wait for anyone and rushed outside after thanking them.


    She had no idea what was wrong with him but his sudden coldness was making her feel awful. She had felt the same when he had scolded her for the first time for changing his schedule.


    "Boss I¡ª"


    "Did you take the graphics from him? Did you go through their project plan? Did you show him ours? Did you take notes?" He snapped as soon she approached.


    Ellie shook her head and tried to explain herself, "No we were about to but¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian snapped again, "So what did I bring you here for? To work or to chat?"


    "I¡ª"


    Cutting her off again, Sebastian continued, "And are you here to exchange numbers? And how can you just give your number to just anyone like that? Didn''t your parents teach you not to talk to strangers?"


    Ellie frowned and retorted, "He was your client''s assistant so practically he isn''t a stranger and apart from the fact that I did not give him my number, what does it have anything to do with you even if I did? I can give my number to whoever I want and I don''t remember any rule which says that I cannot share my number with anyone."


    "You didn''t give him your number?" He asked.


    "Scold me for not doing my work properly and I''ll not say a word because I know that I am at fault but don''t expect me to keep quiet when you accuse me for something I didn''t do." Opening the car door, she added, "And my parents did teach me not to talk to strangers and this is why I did not give him my number."


    Getting into the cab which was waiting for them, Ellie squeezed herself in the extreme corner, far away from him. She was so mad at him for accusing and snapping at her for no good reason.


    Sebastian, who finally felt a bit better after knowing that she had turned Thomas down, happily boarded the cab only to find a grumpy and super angry Ellie sitting on the extreme corner of the back seat.


    Gesturing the cab driver to leave, he awkwardly cleared his throat before turning towards her. "Are you angry?"


    After a couple of seconds when she did not say anything, he added, "Are you really angry?" When she did not say anything again, he was about to question her again but Ellie snapped at him.


    "Don''t talk to me."


    Sebastian frowned and frowned deeper. His expression turned dark and he felt very bad. In fact, he had never felt so bad and disappointed ever in his life. Why wouldn''t she want to talk to him? Would she not talk to him forever?


    The thought of Ellie not talking to him forever made him feel anxious and sad. He was already feeling very wronged when he assumed that Ellie gave Thomas her number but now he felt more wronged. She was the one who was talking to some other guy and now she didn''t want to talk to him? Where is the justice?


    Crossing his arms in the front, he grumpily turned towards the window. Even he didn''t want to talk to her.


    ¡­.


    Hotel Montana Vista


    Outside Ellie''s room.


    Not liking the cold treatment that Ellie was giving him, Sebastian frowned and snapped, "So you talk to some other man, give him your number and now you are the one who gets to throw tantrums, don''t you think this is unfair?"


    "What do you mean by talking to some other man? He was your client''s assistant for God''s sake and for the third time, I did not give him my number." Ellie retorted.


    "Uh huh uh huh, you would if I hadn''t arrived on time and stopped you. And couldn''t you say that he was trying to hit on you?" He asked


    She frowned and snapped, "No one was hitting on anyone, it was just a healthy conversation."


    "You call that healthy? He was touching you and¡ª"


    "When did he touch me?"


    He frowned deeper and gritted his teeth. "You think I didn''t see how he brushed his fingers in your arms? Well, I have sharp super observant eyes."


    Groaning in frustration, Ellie unlocked her room and gritted her teeth, "I need to get away from this stupid conversation and clear my head so don''t talk to me for a while."


    "You¡ª" before he could say anything, she banged the door shut, leaving him behind all sad and hurt.


    Glancing at the shut door for a few minutes, Sebastian frowned and shouted, "Fine, even I don''t wanna talk to you," Before grumpily walking towards his room.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 80 - Brownie points

    Sebastian''s room.


    Lying on the bed with his eyes wide open, Sebastian had been sulking for about an hour now. He had no idea whether he was sad or angry because she shut him out.


    Supporting his head with his elbow, he immersed himself in a very deep thought. Was it really his fault? Did he overreact? Well, he did shout at her again which was totally wrong and he didn''t deny that.


    He then frowned and gritted his teeth, she was laughing at that guys stupid tripping jokes. She made him feel awful and sad so it was clearly her fault.


    Burying his face on the pillow, he closed his eyes and tried not to think about Ellie and sulk but he couldn''t help it.


    Just then he widened his eyes in shock and glanced at the watch. He quickly got up when he realised that it was almost half past four and they didn''t have their lunch yet.


    Getting down from the bed, he wore his slippers and rushed towards the door but stopped himself midway when he realized that they were still fighting and he was still angry over everything that had happened.


    Grumpily walking towards the couch, he slumped down and sighed. They obviously couldn''t have lunch together since they were fighting but that doesn''t mean he can''t order lunch for her right? She was angry with him and not the food.


    Without wasting any more time, he ordered two identical portions for food and asked them to deliver a portion to Ellie''s room.


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s room.


    Still angry and hurt over the incident, Ellie decided to take a nap to clear her head. She was not angry because he had shouted at her but because of the false accusations that he slammed right on her face.


    Did he really think that she would just give her number to any Tom, D.i.c.k and Harry? Did he think that she was so stupid? She was there because he took her and it was a part of her job so how could he accuse her that way? She felt very wronged and disappointed over whatever had happened.


    Resting her head on her elbow, she massaged her forehead and sighed. Did she say too much? Did she overreact? Whatever he said made sense and it sounded like he genuinely cared and was worried about her safety. Was shutting him out like that a bad decision? What if he stops talking to her?


    Burying her face on the pillow, Ellie sighed. She was exhausted after having such a rough day and was feeling hungry too. She wanted to order something but didn''t want to eat all by herself.


    Should she go over and ask him to accompany her for lunch? Vigorously shaking her head, she frowned. No she couldn''t do that, she was still angry with him and didn''t wanna melt down.


    Just then something knocked at the door.


    Lazily dragging herself down from the bed, she rubbed her slightly swollen elbow which was still hurting, while walking towards the door.


    Looking at the hotel staff who was holding a tray in his hand, she frowned, "Hmm I guess you are in the wrong room."


    "Ms Miller this is for you."


    "But I didn''t order anything."


    "Mr Stewart ordered this for you." The waiting informed before passing her the tray. "Have a good day."


    Looking at the tray which had different kinds of foods, she couldn''t stop herself from blushing very hard. He actually ordered food for her even after she had shut him out?


    Kicking the door shut, she happily entered the room along with her food tray that Sebastian ordered for her.


    Placing the tray on the table, she smiled. So he didn''t forget about her lunch even though they were not talking to each other. How can someone be so annoying and sweet at the same time?


    Helplessly shaking her head, she chuckled. How on earth was she supposed to stay angry with him? He just earned all the leftover brownie points from her.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s room.


    After lazily finishing his food while thinking whether Ellie had eaten or not, he thought for a while before picking his phone from the table.


    Opening his browser, he started doing his own little research on how he could soothe Ellie''s anger and make her talk to him again.


    After going through a couple of articles, Sebastian didn''t feel very satisfied so he decided to take help from a highly experienced person.


    "Dude, what''s up?" Noah asked.


    "Where are you?"


    "I am at home, Melissa is taking her afternoon nap so I am cleaning the house, why? What happened?"


    Keeping quiet for quite sometime, Sebastian said, "Hmm I just wanted to ask you a general question.


    "Okay, go on."


    "Like just a general question but nothing personal okay?"


    "Dude, are you drunk? What you are saying makes no sense." Noah snapped.


    Sebastian took a deep breath and asked, "Okay so what do you do when Melissa is angry with you?"


    "Wait what? Why do you wanna know that?"


    "I am just curious," he lied. He wanted to know what Noah does to soothe Melissa''s so that he could use it on Ellie.


    "Okay, so I hug her and keep kissing and touching her until she gets we¡ª"


    Cutting off, Sebastian sighed, "Okay, too much information."


    "Hey, you were the one who asked for it."


    "Why don''t you tell me something that doesn''t include kissing or hugging?" Sebastian asked.


    "Hmm, well when she doesn''t let me touch her, I keeping walking around her and offer her a long drive or a walk in the garden and¡ª"


    Cutting him off again, Sebastian said, "Alright, continue with the cleaning and don''t try to act smart and clean only the areas which are visible. Remember what Mel did when you did not clean the back for the shelves and under the couch." before hanging up the call.


    Tossing his phone aside, he rushed towards the washroom to take a shower before rushing over to Ellie''s room.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 81 - Informal thoughts

    After taking a nice hot shower, Sebastian grabbed a white t-shirt and a pair of black pants to go with it. He then started setting his hair and was about to wear his shoes, all ready to leave when someone called him.


    Looking at the caller ID, he frowned. Why would Noah call him again? Assuming that he was calling to tease him, he decided to ignore it but when he called again, Sebastian reluctantly received his call.


    "What is it Noah?"


    "Tch tch what''s up with that cold tone? You were all sweet and buttery when you called me earlier."


    Sebastian sighed and asked, "What happened?"


    "Ahh I just called you to give you some healthy advice." Pausing for a while, he added, "If you want to take someone for a walk then wait until it''s dark."


    "Why?


    "


    Noah chuckled and said, "Because night is romantic and more convenient to do things."


    "I don''t wanna take anyone anywhere."


    Noah chuckled and nodded his head, "Sure Seb, I''ll hang up now."


    Tossing his phone aside, Sebastian made his way towards the window and sighed when he realised that it was still bright outside which meant that he had to wait until sunset or at least until it''s dark.


    Walking towards the bed, he lied down and decided to take a short nap before going for a long night walk with Ellie.


    ¡­.


    9:00 pm


    Ellie''s room


    Ellie lazily got down from the bed someone knocked at the door. She was thinking about ways to thank and apologize to him but ended up falling asleep.


    Rubbing her eyes, she opened the door and saw Sebastian standing right in front of her looking all fresh and handsome.


    "Did I disturb your sleep?" When she shook her head, he asked, "Would you like to go for a walk in the garden?"


    "Now?"


    He slightly frowned and asked, "Yes but if you don''t want to then¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she shook her head, "Oh no, I''ll just freshen up and change first."


    Not knowing what else to say, both of them kept on staring at each other awkwardly. Were they still fighting? Were they still angry with each other? What would happen next?


    With several mutual questions revolving around their heads, Sebastian was the first one to make a move.


    "Can I come inside?"


    Realising that they were still standing at the door, she quickly invited him inside.


    Noticing that she was still wearing the same clothes from the morning, he asked, "You did not change after coming back?"


    "Hmm, I don''t have a comfy night t-shirt and I didn''t wanna wear a new one to sleep so I had to wear this."


    "Isn''t it difficult to sleep wearing that?"


    She shook her head and said, "No and even it is, I really don''t have a choice." Grabbing her clothes and bath towel, she entered the washroom.


    Looking at the clothes which were scattered everywhere and the messy bed, Sebastian sighed and decided to arrange everything for her.


    ¡­..


    When Ellie came out, Sebastian was fluffing the pillows. Looking around, she realised that the bed was already neatly made and her clothes were nowhere to be. Assuming that he had placed them inside her bag which was lying in a corner, she smiled. He had taken all the trouble to arrange her bed and clean the mess she had created. How on earth was she supposed to stay angry and not admire such a gentleman like him?


    "I placed your clothes inside that¡ª" he stopped midway when he saw her. She was wearing the baby pink dress he had bought for her yesterday and she looked as beautiful as ever. Her hair was still wet and her face was flushed which he assumed happened because she took a hot water shower.


    For some odd reason, seeing him wear the dress he had bought for her made him feel very happy and proud. And this proudness was so much different than what he felt after winning a million dollar project or after accomplishing something. In fact, everything about her felt so different.


    When was the last time when he felt so hurt, sad and distressed when he scolded someone or stopped talking to them? Did he ever look for ways to soothe someone''s anger? No he hadn''t.


    Sebastian had followed the ''Talk if you want to'' attitude all his life. In fact, he never tried to talk or initiate a conversation with his parents when they are angry or disappointed with him. He would just let them be but with Ellie it was different. He couldn''t just let her stay angry. The restlessness and anxiety was too much for him to handle. But why?


    Crossing his arms in the front, he scrunched his brows. Was Noah right? Was he really changing?


    The way Sebastian was staring at her made her feel very embarrassed and anxious. Was she not looking good? Did the dress look weird? Did she wear it upside down?


    "Hmm boss?"


    Coming out of his daze, Sebastian asked, "Ah yes?"


    "Hmm am I not looking good? Should I change?" She blushed after asking the question. Why would she even ask him that? Was she dressing up for him? But it sounded like she did.


    Sebastian frowned and vigorously shook his head, "No, why would you change?" Walking towards her, he tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and smiled, "You look beautiful."


    Biting her lower lip, Ellie blushed and lowered her head. She felt butterflies in her stomach and her heart bloomed in happiness like as if she was dying to hear that from him.


    Sebastian always felt extremely uncomfortable when she bit her lower lip like that. It was tempting and made him feel very weird. He wanted to bite them too but he couldn''t which made the weird feeling even more weird.


    Brushing away the informal thoughts of biting Ellie''s lips, he decided to change the topic and not to think about her lips, "Shall we leave?"


    When she smiled and nodded her head, they left the room together.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 82 - The walk

    Garden.


    They had already started walking but both of them decided to stay shut and not say a word. Both of them were feeling very awkward and weird.


    The sudden silence in their jolly relationship was too much for Sebastian to handle. He always complained about Ellie having a big mouth but now that she wasn''t saying anything, he was missing her long stretchy talks.


    "You want to sit down for a while?" When she nodded her head, he started walking towards the nearby bench but stopped midway when she sat down on the grass.


    "You want to sit here, on the ground?"


    "Hmm yes¡ª" realizing that maybe he wasn''t comfortable sitting on the ground, she was about to get up when he saw down beside her and sighed.


    "We can sit on the bench if you aren''t comfortable sitting here."


    "No it''s fine, I like it here." Pausing for a while, he added, "You know when Ava and I were young, mom never allowed us to play in the garden or sit on the grass. She always told us that it''s dirty and there are many germs on the ground which can make us fall sick."


    Ellie frowned and said, "That is not true, grass is a part of nature and how can nature be dirty?"


    "Yes but mom always thought it was dirty so we were restricted from playing in the garden but you know how Ava is right? Damn that girl is so stubborn and you know, she was more stubborn when we were young." Helplessly shaking his head, he continued, "And Ava loved playing with mud, in fact, I once caught her eating mud. She was literally making mud balls and eating them."


    When Sebastian laughed, she frowned and retorted, "Hey don''t laugh, mud is tasty when one is young. I don''t remember how it tastes like but I am sure that it''s tasty."


    He chuckled and nodded his head. "Yes, I am sure that the worms that breed in there are very tasty."


    "So didn''t your mom say anything? I mean when Ava was eating mud?"


    "So one day my parents were out and we were supposed to finish the task that we were given but our typical Ava decided to go out and play with mud an hour before our parents were supposed to arrive. So I had to bring her in, help her clean and also help complete her assigned task so that she doesn''t get punished. But at the end, I couldn''t complete my task and ended up getting punished."


    Turning towards him, she smiled, "You are a great brother and Ava is so lucky to have you."


    Keeping quiet for a couple of seconds, he said, "I am sorry for snapping at you today, I know I shouldn''t have but well, I did."


    "I am sorry too," She sighed and added, "I know you were concerned about my safety but¡ªokay, I don''t like it when you lash out at me like that. Your sudden cold treatment at the restaurant scared me and I completely lost it when you accused me for nothing."


    Pausing for a while, Ellie pouted her lips and asked, "Can we not fight in the future? Because it makes me feel awful."


    Sebastian vigorously nodded his head and frowned, "Yes, it does feel weirdly awful and promise that I''ll never accuse or lash out at you in the future."


    "I promise that I''ll never shut you out like that."


    Smiling at her, he asked, "So are we good now?" When Ellie chuckled and nodded her head, he added, "I want more sandwiches on Monday for shutting me out."


    "Yes sure, I''ll make as many as I can and bring them for you on Monday."


    Seeing her bright and beautiful smile after so many hours, made his heart feel at peace and his mood lightened up again. He was ready to give up anything for that smile on her face.


    "I don''t know whether I should get into that but ummm¡ª"


    Sensing her hesitation, Sebastian flicked her forehead. "You can ask me anything you want to."


    Rubbing her forehead, she smiled. She was so used to him flicking her forehead that she had long stopped complaining.


    "Remember my interview day?"


    Pretending to think for a while, he chuckled, "You mean the day you made a fool out of yourself?"


    Rolling her eyes at him, she continued, "That day, I saw your mom outside the company. Mel and Noah were praising her alot."


    "Yeah, they don''t like them but that is totally understandable because not everyone can handle her dominating nature and attitude. It needs years of practice and patience."


    Looking at him, she added, "They told me that your childhood wasn''t bright and colorful like it should be."


    Looking at the dark sky, Sebastian said, "You see when a person is used to doing something or living in a particular environment, they always think that it''s perfect and comfortable. I spent my entire childhood living by my parents rules and trying to fulfill their expectations so I always thought that it was comfortable and perfect. There were times when I saw Noah playing with his dad and felt very sad but I always brushed it off thinking that people live their lives in different ways and I shouldn''t compare mine with him."


    Keeping quiet for quite sometime, he added, "I don''t blame my parents for anything. Yes, I do feel disappointed at times because their way of parenting wasn''t the most convenient one but at the same time, I also feel that if not for the unhealthy environment I grew up in, I wouldn''t have been where I am now. Their strict parenting forced me to work harder and harder. It''s not that I am justifying their behavior or attitude but no matter what, they are my parents and I can''t think lowly of them right? Good or bad, they are the ones who brought me into this world and I will forever be grateful to them."


    Sebastian was about to continue when he felt a soft hand on his.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 83 - Promise

    Placing her hand on his, Ellie smiled, "People are right, you are really different, in a good way of course."


    Pausing for a while, she continued, "I don''t know how it feels to live that way because I was never restricted from doing anything. My parents never stopped or forced their decisions on me. Well, I am not saying that my parents are better than yours or anything like that but my point is, people say that our upbringing defines our character. I am carefree because my parents always taught me to live for the present and not for the future but it''s not the same for you."


    Her hand still on his, she turned her upper body towards him and added, "You know why I think that you are different? Because according to the surrounding and parents you grew up with, you should''ve been a super grumpy, selfish, annoying, merciless man with a very cold and unapproachable attitude. But you are completely opposite of that. I mean I don''t know about others but the time we have spent together, I realised that you are very sweet, fun loving and caring too."


    Slightly squeezing her hand which was over his, she smiled, "Your loving nature despite being taught to remain distant is what makes you different. Maybe you had a rough childhood or maybe it wasn''t the best one but that is the past now, it''s long gone and now you have a fantastic present and an adventurous future, waiting for you to explore new things."


    Ellie did mean each and everything she had said. No matter what others say but for her, Sebastian was the sweetest of all. The more time she spent with him, he kept warming up his heart with his extraordinary sweetness. She had no idea what would happen in the future, she didn''t know whether tomorrow he would want to spend time with her or not but she didn''t want to think about it. She wanted to cherish and explore new things with him as long as she could and he wanted to. Yes, she wanted him to explore new things with her but of course she was too shy to say that loud.


    Staring at her hand which was perfectly placed on his, Sebastian felt immensely pleased and at the top of the world. His heart was leaping and bouncing in excitement while there were butterflies feasting inside his stomach. He never knew that night walks felt so good. Maybe Noah was right about going for a walk after it''s dark.


    Swearing to listen to Noah often, he smiled and asked, "So do you like sitting on the grass? And do you still eat mud?"


    "No I don''t eat mud and yes, I do like sitting on the grass and just stare at the beautiful sky, filled with stars." Taking a deep breath, she continued, "This was a part of my bucket list."


    "Bucket list?"


    "Yes bucket list, why? Don''t you have one?" When Sebastian shook his head, she added, "Hmm well, not everyone has a bucket list."


    All curious about her bucket list, he decided to nudge her to him more about it. "So what does your bucket list consist of?"


    Pulling her hand back, she chuckled, "Nothing so special."


    Slightly disappointed over not having her hand on his, Sebastian quickly brushed his thoughts away and asked, "You can share if you want to, I won''t steal them."


    Ellie chuckled and started telling him about her bucket list, "Sitting on the grass and watching the stars is one of them. Getting a job for myself for the first time, moving out of Seattle and trying something huge are a few that I''ve already accomplished."


    "Hmm, so what falls under the ''yet to happen'' list?" He asked.


    "Ahh there are quite a few under that category and going on a road trip is one of them."


    Sebastian raised his brows and asked, "Road trip? You have never been on one?"


    "No, I mean I did go on road trips with my parents but the road trip in my bucket list isn''t that type. I want to go on a carefree road trip where we can stop in between to admire the scenery and take pictures and then stop by a restaurant and try new kinds of food." Taking a deep breath, she smiled, "Maybe one day I''ll make that happen."


    "You¡ª"


    Ellie hissed when his elbow touched her swollen one. Holding it, she gently caressed it and squeezed her eyes shut.


    Sebastian frowned when he saw her injured elbow. Slowly grabbing her arm, he examined it and asked, "When did this happen?"


    He was there with her all the time so he wondered when she managed to injure her elbow. From morning until they arrived back to the hotel, they were always together so did she fall in her room and injure herself?


    "Umm I fell down at the restaurant."


    He frowned deeper and snapped, "What? When?"


    "After you left." Without waiting for her reply, she added, "I wanted to follow you so while I was rushing over, I ended up tripping on the table and then this happened."


    "What? Why didn''t you tell me about it? I would''ve taken you to the hospital and it wouldn''t have looked so bad." He snapped louder.


    "Boss you are breaking your promise and lashing at me again," Ellie complained.


    Calming himself down, he grabbed her other hand and helped her up, "Let''s go to the hospital."


    She widened her eyes in shock and stopped him. "What? Hospital? We don''t have to go to the hospital for this, I''ll be okay. I just need to apply some ice and it will be all fine."


    "Okay so did you apply some ice on this?" When Ellie lowered her head, Sebastian gritted his teeth and dragged her out of the garden, towards the hotel.


    Mentally cursing himself for being careless and leaving her alone at the restaurant, even though he knew how clumsy she was, he promised himself never to leave her alone in the future.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 84 - Danny Hudson

    Ellie''s room.


    Slowly pressing the ice pack on her elbow, Sebastian kept frowning from time to time making her laugh.


    When he saw her trying very hard to suppress her laughter, he frowned deeper, "What is so funny?"


    Pursing her lips, she vigorously shook her head. How could she tell him that his excessive cuteness was making her laugh. Only if she could squeeze and pull his cheeks.


    "I don''t understand how you manage to fall all the time? Like how? Can''t you walk properly? And who told you to rush after me like that?" He lashed out at her again.


    "Hey, you were the one who gave me the cold treatment all of sudden and scared me and¡ª" pouting her cheeks, she complained, "You are lashing out again."


    Sebastian sighed and helplessly shook his head, "I don''t know what to do with you."


    "Hmm watch a movie with me?"


    Slowly patted her elbow with a clean cloth, he nodded his head, "Okay, which movie do you wanna watch?"


    "Let me think, how about another Disney movie?"


    "Okay, which one?"


    "Let me think."


    ...


    L.A.


    Hudson house.


    "How dare you?" Mr Hudson shouted at his son Danny Hudson for misbehaving and ruining the meeting with Sebastian a month ago when he was away.


    Lowering his head, Danny gritted his teeth but chose to stay quiet. After Sebastian refused to continue the meeting with him because he said a few things about his assistant, he tried to contact him several times but he kept shutting him down.


    "I give you one task to complete without creating a mess for me to clean up later but you can''t even do that, how useless are you?" Mr Hudson yelled. He was fed up with his eldest son''s careless and spoiled behavior.


    When Danny did not say anything, he snapped again, "What? You are not gonna say anything now? Do you have any idea how important that meeting was? If not for my close contacts with Sebastian Stewart, our company would''ve been suffering because of your unruly behavior."


    "Dad, I am going to fix this just give a cha¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Mr Hudson frowned. "What makes you think that Sebastian will do any kind of business with you after what you have done? Do you think you have a chance to even get a metre close to him? You are in such an awful state that he won''t even give you an appointment. I don''t know what I was thinking when I told you that I would hand over the company to you. You are good for nothing Danny."


    Pausing for a while, he added, "That''s it, I am passing on the company to Seldon and you will take over the VP position only after you prove yourself."


    Balling his hands into a fist, Danny retorted, "What? How can you do that to me dad? I am your eldest son, how can you give away something that is mine to that bas¡ª"


    Slamming his hand on the table, Mr Hudson shouted, "Shut up, don''t you dare call him that and one more word, you''ll lose access to all your cards."


    Mr Hudson had two sons, Danny Hudson who was his first born child from his first wife who was long dead and Seldon Hudson, from his second wife who was also his long time lover from college. After his first wife''s death, Mr Hudson met his lover again and they decided to get back together again but only got married after Seldon was born.


    Where Danny was a thirty-years old spoiled brat with zero achievements and a magnet to all sorts of trouble, Seldon was calm, composed and very sharp minded. Unlike Danny, Seldon was responsible and took everything seriously and this is why Mr Hudson preferred handing over the company to his youngest son than Danny.


    Gritting his teeth, Danny dashed out of the mansion. He was very angry with his father who always favoured Seldon over him but he was more mad at Sebastian for making things so difficult and complicated for him.


    Swearing to get back to Sebastian for taking everything away from him, he took out his phone and called someone.


    ¡­..


    San Francisco.


    Hotel Montana Heritage.


    Ellie''s room.


    After watching two movies consequently, Sebastian left. They wanted to watch another one but decided not to because they had an early flight.


    After locking the door, Ellie crashed on the bed all ready to doze off when someone knocked at the door again.


    When she opened the door, she was surprised to see Sebastian again.


    "Hmm boss, did you forget something?"


    He shook his head and said, "No, I just wanted to give you this¡ª" passing her one of his clean white t-shirts, he added, "I always dry clean them so it''s safe to wear. You were saying that you didn''t have proper comfortable clothes to wear at night so you can wear this."


    Taking the t-shirt from him, she smiled, "Thank you so much."


    "It''s alright, have good night."


    After he left, Ellie stood by the door admiring his plain white t-shirt. It had no print or any colors but it was still that most beautiful t-shirt in the whole world for her.


    After closing the door, she took a whiff of it and sighed. It had the pleasant Sebastian smell in it which made her feel giddy. She was more excited to wear his t-shirt than she was while wearing the dress he had bought for her.


    Taking off her dress, she quickly wore the t-shirt which ended right above her thighs and crashed on the bed.


    ...


    Next morning.


    After packing her bag, Ellie cross checked everything to make sure that she didn''t leave anything. They had a flight to catch in a couple of hours and she wanted to be ready before Sebastian comes back. He left early saying that he had something important to do and asked her to get ready.


    Wondering where he might''ve gone, she grabbed her phone and called him but his phone was busy.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 85 - Bucket list

    Waiting for a couple of minutes, she called him again but his number was still busy. Wondering who he was talking to, Ellie was about to toss her phone aside when Sebastian called her.


    "I was trying to call you but it was busy, were you talking to Melissa? Did you make any new plans?" He asked hastily.


    "Plans? You mean with Mel?"


    "Yes."


    "No, in fact, I was calling you," she added.


    "So I guess we were calling each other then." He chuckled.


    "I guess," suppressing her blush, she asked, "Where are you? I am waiting for you."


    "You should come downstairs, I am waiting for you at the reception."


    "Oh when did you come? Anyway, I''ll be there in a minute."


    "Hmm, I''ll be waiting."


    ¡­..


    Reception.


    Taking the trolley bag from her hand, Sebastian asked, "Did you carry everything?"


    "Yes, I double checked."


    "Hmm, I hope you weren''t as careful as you were while packing your suitcase." He chuckled.


    Placing her hand on her waist, Ellie frowned at him. "Have you taken an oath or something like that?"


    Shrugging his shoulder, he innocently asked, "What? What did I do?"


    "You are continuously making fun of me for quite some time now, how can you be so mean to me boss?" she retorted.


    "What? When did I make fun of you? Do you think I can make fun of anyone? I just state the fact." Without waiting for her reply, he guided her out of the hotel.


    ¡­..


    Parking lot.


    "Hmm, why are we here? I thought we were taking a cab." Ellie curiously asked.


    "Who said that we are taking a cab?" Stopping right in front of a silver car, Sebastian placed the bag in the back seat.


    "Wow where did you get the car from?" She curiously asked.


    "It''s a rental car."


    "But why a car? I mean we could just take a cab to the airport right?" she enquired.


    Crossing his arms at the front, he asked, "Who said we are going to the airport?"


    "Because that is where we need to catch the flight so that we can fly back home." She answered.


    "Who said we are flying back?" When Ellie frowned, he stepped forward and added, "I don''t know if this meets the criteria of the road trip in your bucket list but here it is, San Francisco to L.A is a 6 hour drive and if we stop in between to watch the scenery and to eat something new, so let''s add a couple of hours to that."


    Stretching his hands towards her, he smiled, "Would like you go for an eight hour drive with me Ms Miller?"


    Placing her hand on her chest, Ellie asked, "Did you rent this car for me?" when he nodded his, she sighed, "Oh my God boss, you didn''t have to¡ªI mean¡ªahh I dont know what to say."


    "So is that a yes or a no?"


    Placing her hand on his, she vigorously nodded her head, "Of course it''s a yes, a very big one." How could she say no to something so sweet and thoughtful? She had never thought that Sebastian would do something like this for her. When he asked about her bucket list, she thought he was just curious but who would''ve that he would also help her fulfill it?


    Tightening her grip around his hand, she smiled. With each passing day, minute and second, he was turning out to be more sweeter, slowly taking over her heart.


    Looking at the bright smile on her face and the way he was holding his hand made Sebastian feel elated and giddy at the same. Her smile always brightened up his day no matter how bad it is so he kept doing little things that she liked to make her smile. Ellie was his happy pill.


    Guiding her towards the passenger seat, he beamed, "Let''s go."


    ¡­..


    As soon as they drove out of the main city, Sebastian pressed a button and the roof started to fold letting the sunlight kiss their skin.


    Ellie who was already super excited, couldn''t take it anymore. She unbuckled her belt, kneeled on the seat with her arms wide open and breathed in the fresh air.


    Worried that she would end up falling off the car, Sebastian slowed down a little bit.


    Sitting down, she turned towards him and excitedly squealed, "This is so awesome¡ªAhh I feel so alive."


    "If you had told me about your bucket list before, I would''ve taken you for a better and exciting road trip a long time back."


    "I don''t go around telling everyone about my bucket list, I mean its special and a secret too." Smiling at him, she added, "You are the only one who knows about it."


    "Don''t worry, I am very good at keeping secrets."


    ¡­.


    A couple of hours later.


    "Please."


    Looking at the dirty golden puppy who was clinging onto Ellie, Sebastian frowned, "Look, I don''t think it''s a nice idea."


    "Ahh but why? We can recuse him at least and then give him to a shelter where someone will adopt him. We can''t leave this little on here." Rubbing her pinky on the puppy''s forehead, she gave him a very sad look.


    He sighed and helplessly shook his eyes, how on earth was he supposed reject those cute little innocent eyes? "But, its dirty."


    "Because there is no one to take care of him here." She retorted.


    "Okay fine but he is sitting on the back seat and not on your lap because I want him to transfer all the germs to you."


    Raising her brows, she curiously asked, "Are you sure that its because of the germs and not because you are scared of dogs?"


    "W-Who said I am scared of dogs? What is there is there to be scared of them? I mean they can just bite and take your flesh out."


    Taking the puppy close to him, she pouted her lips, "Okay, touch it."


    Taking a couple of steps back, he frowned, "We need to leave, place that thing on the bag seat."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 86 - "Please.....stop..."

    "Oh my God, you are scared of dogs." Ellie chuckled before pushing the puppy towards him which almost freaked Sebastian off.


    Looking at the huge frown on his face, she stuck her tongue out and picked up the small box in which they had found the puppy.


    After driving for a couple of hours, they stopped somewhere to take a look at the scenery but who would''ve thought Ellie would end up finding a little abandoned puppy inside a box, near the road.


    After placing him on the back seat, she turned towards him and grinned, "Puppies don''t bite but if he does, I''ll save you before he hurts you with his cute little fangs."


    Grabbing a bottle of water, he opened it and gestured her to come towards him.


    Looking at her hands which according to her were very clean, she showed it to him. "Look, they are so clean so no need to wash."


    "Obviously you will say that it is clean, okay now come here and wash your hands."


    Reluctantly washing her hand, she jerked off the excess water and was about to wipe her hands on her own clothes when her mischievous instinct kicked in.


    Grinning from ear to ear, she slowly made her way towards Sebastian and pressed her wet hands on his shirt. "Ahh look boss, there is something on your shirt."


    When she started dabbing her wet hands all over his back, he frowned. "Did you just wipe your wet hands on my shirt?"


    Taking several steps back, she vigorously shook her head. "No I didn''t."


    Tossing the bottle aside, he hissed, "You are so dead Ellie Miller."


    "Ahhhhhh,"Ellie screamed and ran towards the open field when Sebastian started chasing her.


    "You think you can run away from me forever? No you can''t." He yelled before yanking at her.


    When he grabbed her waist and started tickling her, she started giggling and pleading him to stop. "Please¡­.stop, I promise I won''t¡­..do¡­.it again."


    "Uh huh, you should have thought about the consequences before doing that," he exclaimed before tickling her harder.


    "Ahhhhhh please stop, I can''t¡­.breathe."


    Sebastian chuckled and slowly let her go but she ended up lying flat on the ground. Her face was flushed red after the intense tickling war and her clothes were disheveled. Her hair was all over her face but she didn''t seem to be bothered about it.


    Taking a deep breath, she sighed, "Ahh it''s so peaceful here." Pausing for a while, she added, "Can we stay here for a while?"


    Sitting down beside her, he smiled and nodded his head. He could stay there all night if that is what takes to bring that smile on her face.


    "You know boss, I crave for moments like this where you don''t have to give a damn about anything and just do what you want to. No deadlines, no pending works, no meetings, no need to clean the house¡ªAhhh it feels so light and peaceful." Turning towards him, she asked, "Don''t you think?"


    Lying down beside her, he nodded his head, "I guess." Turning towards her, he supported his head with his elbow, "Well, I am discovering new things everyday when I am with you and it feels great."


    Stretching his other hand towards her, he slowly removed the strand of hair from her face. "Who would''ve thought that my life could be so exciting?"


    When his fingertips brushed against her cheeks, she inwardly shivered. A light touch from him always made her stomach churn and her ears red.


    With their gaze locked together, he gently brushed his thumb on her left cheek but he quickly pulled his hand away before looking towards the other direction.


    After a few seconds of an awkward silence, Sebastian decided to change the topic and make things a lighter.


    "So I was wondering what you would like to have for lunch."


    "Hmm anything would do, why don''t we stop by somewhere on the way and grab whatever we get?" She suggested.


    "Whatever you say Ms Miller."


    ¡­..


    L.A


    Outside Ellie''s apartment.


    Placing her hand on her waist, Ellie glared at Sebastian who was trying to suppress his laughter, "What? What is so funny about that name?"


    He vigorously shook his head and chuckled, "No, it''s not funny at all, Bojo is a cute name for a female dog."


    "Well in my defence, I thought she was a boy." She retorted.


    As soon as they arrived at the city, they took the dog to the vet for a thorough checkup and later to a shelter which was just a few blocks away from Ellie''s apartment.


    When the people at the shelter asked them to give a name to the dog, Ellie beamed in excitement saying that she wanted him to be called ''Bojo'' but later when they told her that it was a she dog, she quickly changed ''Bojo'' to ''Boji'' which made everything even more funnier.


    "Yes so when you were told that he is actually a she, you named the puppy Boji," he chuckled.


    "Ahh they are such cute names and look at you making fun of them. That is very rude and mean of you."


    Taking her bag out of the back seat, he smiled, "Yes, Bojo and Boji are very cute names."


    Ellie rolled her eyes and was about to take her bag from his hand when he added, "I''ll help you take it."


    "Oh no it''s alright, I can take that. You already drove for so long, you must be feeling exhausted. You should go home and rest."


    "It''s alright, let me take it upstairs, I don''t want you to fall and break your limbs because of this."


    "But¡ª"


    "Please Ms Miller, allow me." He insisted.


    ...


    Inside the apartment.


    Placing the bag on the floor, Sebastian helped her open up the windows of the living room and her room before getting ready to leave the apartment.


    Ellie wanted him to stay may be for a cup of coffee, a glass of lemonade or may be a glass of water but she was too shy and thought it would be awkward to ask him to stay with her any longer. They had been together all the time during the weekends so wouldn''t she sound unnecessarily clingy if she asked him to stay back for sometime?


    ¡­..

 Chapter 87 - Stupid

    "I''ll see you tomorrow," Sebastian said, who was equally reluctant to leave. The restlessness he felt as soon as he left her side was getting harder to handle each day but how could he just stay? Wouldn''t he sound unnecessarily clingy?


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, Ellie slowly nodded. She wanted to stop him but how?


    After taking a deep breath, Sebastian was about to leave when she called him out.


    "Boss¡ª"


    "Yes?" He replied immediately without wasting a single second.


    Too shy and embarrassed to say what she wanted to, she awkwardly stood there. She had no idea why she was feeling so nervous but her palms started turning sweaty and her stomach churned in anticipation.


    Taking a step towards her, he asked, "What happened?"


    "I¡ª" Looking at him, she tried to say something but couldn''t. Biting her lower lip, she was trying to figure how she could throw her words at him in a very non-clingy way when he suddenly took several steps towards her.


    Stopping right in front of her, he raised his hand and caressed her chin with his thumb.


    "Don''t bite your lips like that, it feels weird when you do that."


    His face was just an inch away from hers and the sudden closeness was killing her. It was weird but felt so right at the same time. His thumb gently caressed the portion right below her lower lip, making her feel giddy and nervous.


    When he suddenly wrapped his arms around her waist, her breathing hitched and she clutched her hands on his shirt.


    They were looking at each other intensely, passionately and with a weird sense of longing for each other which both of them were unaware of.


    He loved the way she was looking at him and she loved the way he held her protectively in his arms. It was a mutual feeling which both of them were yet to realise.


    Caressing his cheeks with his thumb, Sebastian asked, "Do you want me to stay?"


    Lost in his intense gaze, Ellie slowly nodded her head. She didn''t care whether she sounded clingy or not, she didn''t care what was happening between them and whether he wanted to stay or not. She didn''t want to think about anything else but only follow her heart and do what it wants.


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he smiled, "I''ll stay."


    Lowering her head, she started hesitated for a while and sighed, "It''s okay if you don''t want to, I mean I¡ª" taking a deep breath, she added, "I don''t know what I was thinking and why I want you to stay...okay, I am stupid."


    "You mean I am stupid too?" When Ellie gave her a weird look, he added, "You just said that you are stupid because you wanted me to stay right? But I want to stay too so doesn''t that make me stupid just like you Ms Miller?"


    "Fine, we both are stupid," she chuckled.


    Fiddling with his shirt button, she added, "Maybe it''s because we both are spending so much time together that it feels very weird when you aren''t around. Like it feels¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian asked, "Restless? Uneasy at heart?" When Ellie nodded her head, he smiled, "So I guess it''s a mutual feeling."


    When she smiled, he tucked a strand behind her ear and asked, "If I stay, will you make sandwiches for me ?"


    "Yes sure but I need to go out and grab a packet of bread first."


    "It''s alright, I''ll go and grab one for us. White or brown?"


    "White,"


    Letting her go, he asked, "Anything else?"


    Thinking for quite some time, she said, "Hmm I am really craving for some potato ch.i.p.s as well."


    Sebastian sighed and helplessly shook his head, "Only one packet."


    "Only two sandwiches."


    He frowned and snapped, "Fine, only two packets."


    "Four."


    "Three."


    Grinning from ear to ear, Ellie made her way towards the kitchen while Sebastian left too.


    ¡­.


    Supermarket


    Driving to the nearest supermarket, Sebastian first decided to grab a packet of white beard and Ellie''s favourite potato ch.i.p.s only but later ended up buying a dozen of extra things.


    Pushing the trolly around the store, he was carefully examining the packet and placing it on the trolley only after making sure it''s healthy.


    "Ahh look at the big boss working so hard while buying groceries," Walking towards him, Owen hooked his arms around his neck and grinned, "I wasn''t expecting to see you here."


    "What are you doing here?" Sebastian asked.


    "June and I are moving in together starting next week so we were buying groceries beforehand," picking up the potato ch.i.p.s, Owen chuckled, "Dude, since when did you start eating all of this? Is it for Ava?"


    "Yes, it''s for Ava."


    "Oh but when did you come back? Noah was saying that you canceled the flight tickets at the last minute." Owen enquired.


    "Hmm, there were still a couple of things that needed to be taken care of so we had to extend the stay."


    "I see! oh by the way, June and I are throwing a housewarming party next week so you all have to come. I''ll see you tomorrow at your office okay? I''ll get going now."


    After Owen left, Sebastian sighed and resumed his mini-grocery shopping.


    ¡­.


    Ellie''s apartment.


    Looking at the two bags, she frowned, "I thought you were going to buy a packet of bread and my potato ch.i.p.s but¡ª"


    "Hmm, I know but then I thought that we would be needing them so I bought what I could."


    "That is true but I could''ve bought them later why¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he started taking out everything from the bag. "Why are you fussing over it? It''s just groceries and anybody can buy them."


    "Alright leave all of this and go freshen up first, I''ll do this." Taking the packet from his hand, Ellie started sorting them out.


    Grinning from ear to ear, Sebastian nodded his head. "Alright."


    "You can use the washroom in my room."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 88 - Pinky

    When Sebastian came out of the washroom after taking a nice hot bath, the dinner was ready.


    "Everything is ready, I''ll freshen up."


    "Alright, I''ll check a few mails and¡ª"


    "You can start, I am sure that you are hungry." They hadn''t eaten anything since afternoon and since it was almost nine, Ellie was sure that he was definitely hungry by now because she was famished too.


    "Of course not, we will eat together so why don''t you hurry and come back quickly, " Rubbing his stomach, he added, "I am famished."


    "Alright, give me ten minutes."


    After Ellie left, Sebastian slumped on the couch and started checking his inbox. When he saw ten missed calls from Ava, he called her back.


    "Ahh there you go, I''ve been calling you since morning."


    "I was busy, what is it?" Yes, he was very busy tickling Ellie, having lunch with her, rescuing a dog with her, going grocery shopping and now he was about to have dinner with her. Sebastian''s schedule was definitely more hectic these days than it already was.


    "When are you coming home? Can you please grab a bucket of fried chicken on the way? I am carving for them." Ava requested.


    Glancing at the watch, he thought for a while before throwing the world''s lamest excuse at his sister. "We had to extend the trip so I am still in San Francisco but we have an early flight tomorrow so I''ll be back soon."


    "Oh, I thought you were already here. Anyway, I''ll order something. I''ll see you tomorrow then, bye."


    After hanging up the call, he helplessly shook his head and chuckled, "You are so doomed Sebastian." Brushing all the thoughts away, he resumed checking his call logs.


    He frowned when he saw tons of messages from his mom which he had no intention of dealing with right now. He didn''t want to spoil his mood nor was he in a mood to deal with his mother so he decided to let her be.


    When Ellie stepped out of the room and they had dinner together.


    ¡­.


    After dinner, they decided to play a round of snake and ladders before calling it off for the night.


    "Are you sure you''ll be okay on the couch?" Sebastian asked.


    "Of course I''ll be fine and I am shorter than you so it will be more convenient for me to fit in."


    After discussing who will sleep where, Ellie insisted that he should sleep in her room because the other spare was super dirty and she would sleep on the couch but Sebastian was still not sure about that because he was worried that she would end up falling from the couch and hurting herself.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he asked, "You won''t fall right?"


    "You can catch me if I fall," she chuckled.


    "I''ll definitely catch you if you fall or rather fall with you," brushing his pinky against hers, he smiled.


    Ellie''s heart leaped in her chest when his sweet words stabbed her chest. She had no idea if he was talking about falling from the couch or falling...


    Brushing away her silly thought, she chuckled at herself. Why would he talk about that? Assuring herself that maybe she was overthinking and assuming things, she tried to calm her silly heart down but she still failed to suppress the blush that crept all over her face.


    "So, why do you like dogs so much?" He asked.


    "Hmm, who doesn''t like dogs? What is there not to like about them? They are sweet, squishy, adorable, fluffy, great listeners, cute and the list goes on." She beamed.


    Sebastian slowly nodded his head and resumed arranging the square pieces. Even he was cute, sweet, adorable, a great listener and, secretly pulling his cheeks, he nodded his head in satisfaction. He was squishy too so why did she like dogs and not him?


    After a couple of seconds, he widened his eyes in shock and frowned. Why the hell would he compare himself to a dog? He was obviously in every way better than a dog.


    "Ahh I wish I could keep Boji with me," she sighed and lowered her head in disappointment.


    "Why not? I mean if you want then we can drop by tomorrow and you can adopt him." He suggested.


    "No, I can''t. You see taking care of a dog is like taking care of a baby. They need your constant attention, you need to make sure that you feed them on time and spend adequate time with them but I am always busy. By the time I am home, it''s already super late and I can''t leave that little soul alone for so many hours." Looking around, she added, "This place is very small too so it''s not convenient you know."


    "Then why don''t you take a bigger place?"


    "Not everyone is as rich as you boss. It was already so difficult for me to get an apartment in this area and now I don''t wanna go around looking for a new place."


    Flicking her forehead, he chuckled, "It''s not difficult, you are just lazy."


    Rubbing her forehead, she frowned before taking the dice from his hand. "I''ll start."


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s place.


    "What? Why are you so scared?" Ava frowned before dragging Calvin inside.


    "This feels like a lion''s den babe, you are sure that he isn''t home or won''t come back right?" He had already asked the same question for God knows how many times but he still didn''t feel very comfortable. He was about to spend an entire night in Sebastian place with his sister so it was definitely a very weird thing.


    "No he won''t because he is still in San Francisco."


    "I don''t know babe, why don''t we go to my place and¡ª"


    Placing her hand on her waist, she glared at him, "No seriously, the way you are acting makes me feel like you''ll leave me as soon as Sebastian glares at you."


    "What? No," wrapping his arms around her waist, he vigorously shook his head, "It''s not like that Ava and you know that but¡ªyou know why I am feeling like this right? I mean though we''ve known each other for a long time but Sebastian is one of my best friends and we can''t deny the fact that you are his sister. I swear I don''t feel weird dating you or being with me because I genuinely feel for you honey but I also feel guilty towards Seb and Noah."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 89 - Rolling all over the bed

    "But Sebastian is not here right? And I know it''s a bit awkward, even I don''t like hiding things from everyone but we don''t really have a choice right?" Ava asked.


    "Your brothers will kill me but we can''t hide this forever but first let me prove myself to them. I''ll make them realize that I am no more the Calvin from the past, I am a relationship kinda guy now."


    Giving him a peck on his cheeks, she smiled, "Don''t worry, we will get through this." Rubbing her stomach, she added, "I am really very hungry so can we please eat?"


    Calvin sighed and nodded his head before walking into the apartment.


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s apartment.


    Inside Ellie''s room.


    Tossing and turning on the bed, Sebastian was having a really hard time falling asleep.


    Jolting up, he sighed and massaged his forehead. Who would''ve thought that it would be so hard to fall asleep on Ellie''s bed because her pillow, her bedsheet and her blanket was giving him a very strange vibe and it was making him feel uncomfortable. It made him feel like he was sleeping with her but he knew that she wasn''t there which was very disturbing.


    The thought of Ellie rolling all over the bed while sleeping was making him giddy and nervous.


    Running his hands through his hair, he got down from the bed to grab a glass of lukewarm water from the kitchen.


    ¡­..


    Placing the glass of lukewarm water on the table, he helplessly shook his head and chuckled when he saw her weird sleeping posture.


    Bending down, he slowly lifted her leg up which was hanging from the couch and tucked her into the blanket which was lying on the floor.


    He then squatted down, slowly removed all a strand from her face and gently caressed her cheeks. She looked so beautiful even when she was asleep.


    Admiring her beautiful face for quite some time, he got up and slumped into the nearby couch and slowly drank his lukewarm water while looking at her.


    Not only did he like spending with her, Sebastian liked everything that was related to her. In fact, he even loved the way she was sleeping just like a cute little baby.


    Thinking for quite some time, he slowly rushed into the room to grab his cellphone.


    He then sneakily started taking pictures of her in every possible angle.


    Looking at the pictures, he chuckled and started admiring it carefully. He had to keep these precious photographs safely for future reference.


    ¡­..


    Next day.


    Park.


    "Ahh I am sorry, I had to go on an emergency business trip for the entire weekend so I couldn''t come."


    "So how was your trip?" Markus asked.


    "It was nice," she smiled. Not just nice, it was the best trip ever. Though she felt a bit disappointed when she did not see Sebastian when she woke up but all her disappointment vanished within a few seconds when she saw the note that he had left.


    [Don''t forget to have your breakfast, its inside the microwave and come soon because¡­.I don''t know, just come soon]


    "Hmm your smile clearly says that it was definitely more than just fine," turning towards her, Markus added, "Quick tell me, did something happen between you and your handsome boss? Did you tell him that you like him?"


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and snapped, "What? Like him? No I don''t¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he chuckled, "Oh come on, who are you trying to fool? Me or yourself?" Pausing for a while, he added, "You do know that it''s written all over your face right? It''s so clear that you like him and according to the things that you tell me everyday, I think that your handsome boss likes you too."


    "Like? I don''t know Markus,"


    "But why? What is there not to know? Don''t you feel nice when he is with you? Don''t you crave for his company? Don''t you feel like being around him all the time?" He asked.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie hesitantly asked, "Hmm what if I feel like that?"


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he chuckled, "Then my little woman, you are already trapped in the beautiful web of love."


    When Ellie did not say anything, he added, "Can''t you say that you are already falling for him? I mean have you not noticed the bright smile on your face whenever you talk about him? I don''t know about you but I have."


    Slumping on the bench, she sighed, "Isn''t it wrong?"


    "What?"


    "If I fall for my boss, isn''t that wrong? I mean he is my boss and I work under him. There is this huge gap between us you know, he is the owner of such a big company and I am just a mere employee."


    Flicking her forehead, Markus chuckled, "Love has no boundaries, it can happen with anyone, anytime and anywhere." Pausing for a while, he added, "And what are you talking about? Boundaries? Huge gap? Okay so you tell me, did he ever make you realize that he is superior to you?"


    When Ellie shook her head, he continued, "Did he ever look down on you? Did he ever try to show you or did he do something which made you realize that he is something that is beyond your limit?"


    "No, he didn''t."


    "So if he doesn''t care then why do you? If he doesn''t care about anything then why are you overthinking? If he is willing to create a separate special bond with you then why are you holding back?" Patting her head, Markus smiled, "You know darling, life is too short for regrets so grab and do everything that you and your heart wants. Always remember one thing, regret is the only illness that has no treatment and medicine."


    Giving him a hug, Ellie smiled, "You are great Markus, I love you."


    "Ahh too bad darling, you are 45 years late."


    Pulling away, she chuckled, "Ahh my bad."


    Glancing at his watch, Markus said, "Time for work little woman and all the best with everything."


    "Okay, I''ll get going now and thank you for talking and listening to me."


    After Ellie rushed out of the park, Markus smiled and helplessly shook his head, "She is just like Brenda."


    ¡­.


    Stewart International Group.


    Sebastian''s office.


    Massaging his forehead, Sebastian frowned, "Will you all tell me what you people are doing here early in the morning? It''s Monday and I am sure you people have many things to do."


    "Not exactly, I am here to invite you all for the housewarming party." Looking at Ava who wasn''t looking very well, Owen added, "Yo, what happened? You don''t look so well."


    Rubbing her stomach, Ava sighed, "Hyperacidity, I think I ate too many fried chicken yesterday."


    Owen chuckled and helplessly shook his head, "So you ate fried chicken after eating those potato ch.i.p.s? Geez no wonder you are suffering."


    "What potato ch.i.p.s?" Ava asked.


    "The ones Sebastian was buying at the supermarket yesterday."


    Ava frowned and snapped, "What are you talking about? Sebastian? Supermarket? Are you stoned early in the morning? How can you meet Sebastian at the supermarket?"


    Owen frowned and retorted, "What stoned? I met Sebastian in the supermarket yesterday in the evening around 7 or 8."


    "How is that even possible Owen? Sebastian was in San Francisco yesterday and came back today in the morning." Ava snapped harder.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 90 - Hallucination

    "What the¡ªnono wait, are you trying to say that I saw a ghost? I met Sebastian at the supermarket yesterday and he was buying groceries." Owen retorted.


    "Wait so according to Owen, he saw Sebastian at the supermarket but according to Ava, Sebastian came back today." Turning towards Sebastian, who was looking for a hole where he could hide, Noah asked, "Dude, what is this?"


    "I¡ª" Sebastian had no idea how he was supposed to get out of the lie of the web he had created. Swearing that he wouldn''t lie again, he was about to cook up another lie when someone jumped for his rescue.


    "Boss, did I accidentally leave my handbag in your car today in the morning?" When Sebastian gave her a confused look, Ellie widened his eyes at him and added, "When we were coming back from the airport in the morning?"


    Understanding what she was trying to do, he decided to act along with her. "Ahh yes, you left it in my car."


    Smacking Owen''s head, Calvin frowned, "Are you really stoned?"


    "What the f.u.c.k? No, I am¡ª" walking towards Sebastian''s desk, Owen snapped, "Hey, tell them that we met yesterday at the supermarket."


    "What? What are you talking about Owen? How can you meet him at the supermarket? That doesn''t make sense. Wait, you aren''t drunk early in the morning right?" Ellie chuckled.


    "I know right? I had a talk with Seb last night, he told me that he won''t be coming back and he didn''t." Ava added.


    Glaring at everyone, Owen gritted his teeth, "Do you all think that I am mad? Why would I just say that I met Seb at the supermarket when I didn''t?" Turning towards Sebastian, he hissed, "You¡ªwhy are you so quiet? Tell them."


    "Tell them what?" Sebastian asked.


    "That we met at the supermarket yesterday and I even told you about my housewarming party and his June and I are moving in together." Owen fumed.


    "You want me to lie?"


    "Lie? What do you mean?"


    "If I tell them that I met you though I didn''t, wouldn''t that be lying to my friends and family?" Sebastian faked a frowned.


    Suppressing her urge to laugh out loud after seeing Sebastian''s real-like acting, Ellie composed herself and sighed, "I think we have a misunderstanding here."


    "There is no misunderstanding, Sebastian is lying you guys," Owen shouted, who was feeling very weird. He clearly remembered meeting Seb and talking to him so why was he denying it? Did he really not meet him?


    "Sebastian never lies, he is a man of his words so you can''t really shove it on him to escape from the fact that you are actually stoned." Noah defended his cousin for real.


    "Yeah, Noah is right and why would Ellie lie?" Calvin asked.


    "Exactly, why would I lie?" Walking towards Owen, Ellie added, "I think you are having what boss was having a couple of weeks back."


    With confusion scattered all over his face, Owen asked, "What?"


    "You see when someone overworks, they tend to hallucinate people and things. So a couple of weeks back when boss told me to get two cups of coffee, one for himself and the other one for Ava but when I looked around, I couldn''t find her anywhere. When I told him about it, he told me that Ava is sitting on the couch but she was not." Pausing for a while, she added, "So you see? When you overwork, you hallucinate things."


    "Oh," slumping on the chair, Owen massaged his forehead. His mind was in mess and he was feeling very muddle headed. He knew that he had seen Sebastian but now he was having a feeling that maybe he didn''t.


    Looking at how distressed he looked, Ellie felt very bad for him. "But don''t worry Owen, this can be fixed easily."


    "How? I won''t go crazy right? I can''t go crazy, what will happen to June and our baby?" He asked.


    "What? June is pregnant?" Melissa gasped.


    "No but she will be in the future so I have to think about that too." Owen added earning a curse from everyone.


    "No, you won''t go crazy or anything. You just need to take rest and work a little less. Don''t stress about anything and¡ª"


    Cutting Ellie off, Sebastian added, "And eat lots and lots of sandwiches."


    Massaging his forehead, Owen dazed out for a while before getting up. "I-I should go home and take some rest."


    After Owen left, Ava sighed, "I should call and tell June about this."


    Glancing at his watch, Calvin added, "I should leave too."


    "Ah I have a meeting." Noah said.


    After everyone left, Ellie started laughing out loud and slumped on the couch.


    "Did you see Owen''s face? Oh God I feel so bad for him."


    Walking towards her, Sebastian chuckled, "I did meet him at the supermarket yesterday."


    "Hmm I know, I heard everything when I was about to enter the office." Smiling at him, she added, "So what was Noah saying? Hmm something like you never lie?"


    Flicking her forehead, he said, "Thanks for helping me out today."


    "Only thanks won''t do because I sinned for you. I lied which is wrong but I''ll take an ice cream as compensation for that."


    "Alright then, let''s go for a ice cream treat after lunch."


    ¡­..


    Afternoon.


    "Are you sure it will be fine if we walk like this?" Ellie asked.


    After lunch, Sebastian suggested walking to the ice cream parlour which Ellie thought would be very inconvenient for him.


    "It''s alright, it''s a safe area and the weather is perfect for a walk so everything is fine." He assured her.


    When they arrived outside the ice cream parlour, she asked him to stay outside.


    "It''s very crowded so I''ll go get it for us, hmm which flavor do you want?" She asked.


    "Which one do you want?"


    "Chocolate"


    "Then get the same one for me too."


    Ellie smiled and nodded her head before entering the parlour.


    ¡­.


    Ten minutes later.


    Holding two double scoop chocolate ice cream, Ellie happily walked out of the parlour.She then started looking for Sebastian only to find him talking over the phone near the main road.


    She was about to approach him when she saw a black car overtaking everyone and speeding towards him.


    Dropping the ice cream on the ground, she rushed towards him while calling him out.


    "Sebastian."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 91 - Accident

    "Sebastian," she called him out again but he was too engrossed talking to someone over the phone.


    Looking at the speeding car, Ellie increased her speed and rushed towards him.


    Before the car could hit him, she grabbed his blazer and pulled him towards the sidewalk.


    Both of them ended up falling down but Ellie ended up hitting her head on the cemented par.a.p.et.


    The car which was about to hit Sebastian ended up losing control and crashed against an electric pole, creating havoc in the entire area. The driver of the car tried to escape sneakily but the locals who had already gathered around the area were fast enough to catch a hold of him before calling the police.


    Sebastian, who was still in shock, quickly composed himself and started checking on Ellie. He had no idea what had happened but the first thing he could think of in a situation like this was Ellie and her health.


    "Ellie¡ª"


    Forcefully lifting her head, Ellie placed her hand on his cheek and panic strikingly asked, "Are you okay? Please tell me you are okay."


    "Yes I am okay but you¡ª"


    "Thank God that you are okay Seb, thank God," she muttered before passing out.


    "Ellie! Hey, wake¡ª" he stopped midway and started panicking when he saw blood trickling from her forehead.


    Tapping her cheeks, he tried to wake her up, "Hey El, wake up. Talk to me, Ellie."


    Not knowing what to do, he panic strickenly started looking around for help. He started feeling muddled headed and his legs felt wobbly. He had no idea what he was supposed to do and what he was doing.


    "Hey quick, take her to the hospital," someone shouted.


    "Someone call 911," another person shouted.


    "The hospital is nearby, so you should take her there quickly. I''ll stop a cab for you," a man suggested.


    "Hospital, yes hospital," Sebastian muttered before scooping her into his arms. He then rushed towards the cab that was waiting for them.


    ¡­.


    Inside the cab.


    Asking the cab driver to drive faster, he kept pressing his handkerchief on her bleeding forehead, occasionally calling her out and tapping her cheeks but she wasn''t responding nor opening her eyes which was freaking him out.


    Just then Ellies phone which was inside her bag started ringing.


    Sebastian somehow managed to take it out and he quickly received it when he saw who it was.


    "Hey El, where are you and Seb is with you? He is not receiving my call and we have need attend a very important meeting toge¡ª"


    Cutting Noah off, Sebastian trembled, "Noah, it''s me. I am taking Ellie to the hospital right now and¡ª"


    "Hospital? What happened? Are you both alright?" Noah frowned.


    "I am okay but El she¡ª"


    "Hey, don''t worry okay? I''ll be right there. Which hospital?"


    After giving him the address, Sebastian shoved the phone inside his pocket and impatiently asked the driver to drive faster.


    Pulling her closer, he muttered, "I won''t let anything happen to you, please be okay El."


    ...


    Hospital


    When Noah, Melissa and Ava arrived at the hospital, Sebastian was pacing back and forth in front of the emergency room.


    "Seb, how is Ellie? And how did this happen?" Melissa asked who was equally concerned for both of them.


    "I-I don''t know, she was inside the ice cream parlour and then she suddenly pulled me away and w¡ªwe ended up falling and¡ª"


    Placing his hand on his shoulder, Noah tried to calm him down, "Hey, relax okay? Don''t panic, nothing is going to happen to her."


    "I¡ªI can''t Noah, I cannot lose her. She was with me but I still couldn''t do anything." The feeling of Ellie getting hurt despite being with him was killing him and he was going crazy. The fear of losing her was haunting him and he couldn''t imagine his life without her presence at the moment.


    Ava and Noah had never seen Sebastian so scared and nervous. He was always very calm and was the best at keeping his cool at hectic situations like this so seeing him like this was very strange and unusual. Even Melissa was quite surprised after seeing Sebastian''s reaction.


    Ava frowned when she saw his bleeding knuckles. Grabbing his hand, she snapped, "You need to get this dressed."


    Retrieving his hand back, he shook his head, "I am alright."


    "No Sebastian, you are not okay. You need to get this dressed," Melissa insisted.


    "I need to be here with Ellie right now and I don''t give a damn about anything else," he snapped.


    "But¡ª"


    Gesturing Ava to let him be, Noah sighed. Seeing Sebastian''s condition, he knew that no one would be able to persuade him at the moment.


    After sometime, the doctor stepped out of the emergency room. "The patient''s family¨C"


    "How is she? Is she alright?" Sebastian asked anxiously.


    "The patient is out of danger, the wound wasn''t very deep and she fainted because of concussion. We still need to keep her under observation for a couple of days." The doctor informed everyone before walking away.


    Sebastian, who was still not very convinced and he would never feel at peace no matter what happens until she talks to him, kept on looking inside the emergency room.


    Placing his hand in his shoulder, Noah sighed, "Dude, she is fine so stop worrying and get your wound dressed first."


    "No it''s alright, I wanna see her first."


    After sometime when Ellie was pushed out of the room, Sebastian quickly followed her behind.


    ¡­.


    Private room.


    Holding her hand, Sebastian quietly sat down beside Ellie while Noah, Melissa and Ava were standing in a corner.


    Just then, the police arrived but since Sebastian wasn''t in the best condition to deal with them, Noah volunteered himself to cooperate with them.


    Walking towards her brother, Ava placed her hand on his shoulder. "Hey stop worrying, she is alright."


    "It''s all my fault Ava, I shouldn''t have taken her out." Placing her hand on his forehead, he sighed.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 92 - Instincts

    "Hey it''s not your fault Seb, it''s an accident. It could''ve happened to anyone and anywhere." Ava tried to calm him down but nothing helped. One could easily say by the way he was looking at Ellie that he was very guilty and worried about her.


    "Ava is right Seb and El will never blame you for anything," Melissa added.


    Sebastian sighed and slowly nodded his head. He knew that Ellie would never blame him for whatever happened but he couldn''t stop blaming himself.


    Their day wasn''t supposed to end like this, they were supposed to grab some ice cream, walk their way to the office and then hangout in the evening after work like they always did.


    Now all he wanted was for Ellie to get up and talk to him.


    ¡­.


    A couple of hours later.


    When Ellie opened her eyes, the first person she saw was Sebastian who was sitting right beside her, holding her hand. She felt so relieved and peaceful after seeing him.


    "Seb," she somehow managed to mutter even though her throat felt very dry.


    Lifting his head, Sebastian quickly got up and started panicking again. "You are awake, are you okay? Is it hurting somewhere?"


    "You should ask whether she recognizes you or not," Ava chuckled.


    When Ellie tried to sit up straight, Sebastian slowly pushed her down. "No you cannot get up."


    "I¡ª"


    "What happened? Do you want something?" Without waiting for her reply, he rushed outside after saying, "I''ll call the doctor."


    After Sebastian left, Melissa helped Ellie sit up straight and asked, "Do you want some water El?" When Ellie nodded her head, she poured some lukewarm water for her.


    "Thanks, I feel better¡ª" before she could finish her sentence, Melissa gave her a hug and sighed.


    "Thank God you woke up, you really scared us a lot today." Pulling away, she added, "How can you be so careless?"


    "Exactly and more than anyone else, you freaked Sebastian off." Giving her a brief hug, Ava added, "He was on the verge of passing out."


    Just then the doctor and nurse arrived while Sebastian followed them behind.


    After checking her vitals, the doctor asked her, "How are you feeling now Ms Miller?"


    "Much better but I am still feeling a bit dizzy."


    "Hmm it''s because of a concussion but don''t worry, it will be gone soon. You just need to take some rest and you''ll be fine." The doctor was about to explain further when Sebastian interrupted in between.


    "Are you sure everything is okay? She shouldn''t be feeling dizzy if everything was okay right?"


    "Don''t worry Mr Stewart, this is very common after you hit your head on something hard so it''s nothing to worry about. We already did a CAT scan and everything is normal," After checking a few other things, the doctor left.


    "You should lie down and¡ª"


    "I am okay and¡ª" Looking at his pale face and the way he was looking at her, Ellie knew that he was very nervous and worried her.


    The way both of them were looking at each other was so intense and loving.


    Ava and Melissa smiled at each other and quietly left the room, giving them some space.


    Sitting down beside her, he grabbed her hand and sighed, "Thank God you are alright." Kissing her knuckles, he added, "I was so scared."


    "I¡ª"


    "I am sorry for the lovely time interruption but Seb, you really need to get that wound dressed," Ava interrupted them.


    "What?" Ellie frowned when she saw his injured knuckles. Grabbing his hand, she snapped, "You got hurt¡ªwhy didn''t you get it treated yet?"


    "Well, we did tell him a million times but he is stubborn and never listens to us," Ava explained.


    "It''s nothing and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Ellie retorted, "Nothing? You think this is nothing?" Looking at Ava, she added, "Can you please ask a nurse to come over please?"


    Ava nodded her head and left.


    "How can you be so careless Sebastian? You don''t wanna get your wound dressed and you were also standing almost on the road and talking over the phone. Do you have any idea what would''ve happened if that car¡ª" closing her eyes, Ellie sighed. She didn''t even want to think about it. Only she knew how terrified she was after seeing that car speeding towards him. What would''ve happened if she didn''t manage to pull him away? The thought alone made her shiver and clenched her heart.


    "Car? What are you talking about?" He asked.


    Just then Noah entered the room followed by the nurse.


    "Hey El, how are you feeling now?"


    "I am feeling much better," Ellie smiled.


    Patting her head, he sighed, "You scared all of us today, especially Sebastian." Turning towards Sebastian, he added, "Can we talk outside?"


    "Hmm can you take him after he gets his wound treated please?" Ellie asked.


    Noah nodded his head and reported, "Sure, there is no rush. Hmm actually, the police want to ask you a few questions Ellie and they want to fo it now if you are okay with it."


    Sebastian frowned and quickly got up. "Police? But why?"


    "That¡ª"


    "It''s okay Noah, you can ask the officers to come in." When Sebastian was abiit to say something but Ellie assured him, "It''s okay Seb, this is important and I am fine so you don''t have to worry so much."


    "I''ll ask them to come inside then."


    After Noah left, Ava and Melissa entered the room. "I saw a few police officers outside."


    "Yes which makes me wonder, how did all of this happen." Melissa added.


    Ellie was about to explain when two police officers entered the room.


    "Good evening Ms Miller, I am officer Hook and we just want to ask you a few questions." One of the officers said.


    Leaving his dressing midway, Sebastian quickly made his way towards Ellie and he stood beside her.


    Ellie was very nervous after seeing two fully dressed cops and their firearms which was securely held by the handgun holster. But she immediately felt at peace when Sebastian placed his hand on her shoulder.


    Looking at him, she smiled. His presence beside her immediately calmed her down and she asked the officers to carry on.


    "So what exactly happened?" Officer Hook asked.


    "We are outside the ice cream parlour and Seba¡ª" awkwardly clearing her throat, she continued, "Boss was waiting outside while I entered the parlour. When I came out, he was standing near the road and a car was speeding towards him."


    Pausing for a while, she added, "I don''t know but I had this feeling that the car would definitely hit him so my instincts kicked in, I rushed towards him and pulled him away from the road."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 93 - You are crazy

    Sebastian frowned and asked, "Car?"


    "Mr Stewart, who were you talking to over the phone?" Officer hook inquired.


    "I was talking to my mom, she told me that someone called her saying that I was in trouble." Massaging his forehead, Sebastian added, "I have no idea about the car or who called my mother."


    Taking out a picture, officer Hook asked Ellie, "Is this the car which was about to hit Mr Stewart?"


    Looking at the picture, Ellie nodded her head, "Yes, It was the same black car."


    "The car ended up losing control and hitting an electric pole. The driver tried to escape but the locals detained him. He is in our custody right now and is being interrogated. We also checked the CCTV footage and it seems like Ms Miller is right, the car was targeting you." Officer Hook explained.


    Pausing for a while, the officer asked, "So Mr Stewart, did you have any argument with any one recently or may be any suspicious business rival?"


    Sebastian thought for a while and shook his head. "Not to my recollection." He barely had any argument with outsiders or any business rival who would actually want him dead. Sebastian always minded his own business without paying much heed to what others are doing which is one of the reasons why it was very shocking to believe that someone wanted to kill him.


    "Alright, we will let you know the result of the interrogation and if we manage to find a lead."


    Noah left along with the officers while Melissa and Ava decided to give them some space. The nurse quickly finished the dressing and left too.


    "Why did you do that?"


    "Do what?" Ellie asked.


    Sebastian frowned and snapped, "How could you risk your life like that?"


    "So did you expect me to just stand there and watch that hit you and break your head? If that is what you wanted me to do then I am sorry, I will never do that." She retorted.


    Massaging his forehead, he sighed, "I just can''t see you like this Ellie." Sitting down beside her, he continued, "Do you have any idea how I felt when you passed out in arms? It was terrifying and I couldn''t think of anything at the moment. I was so scared and worried."


    "And I cannot just sit back and watch you getting hurt," she retorted.


    Looking at each other, both of them chuckled.


    Kissing the back of her hand, he sighed, "You are crazy."


    "Hmm, I thought you already knew that I am."


    ¡­.


    Outside the room.


    Wrapping her arms around Noah''s waist, Melissa smiled, "I guess you were right."


    "About what honey?" Noah asked.


    "I am talking about them," Looking at Sebastian and Ellie who were looking so good and happy together, her smile widened. "Maybe you were right about something happening between them, I mean just look at them, they look so happy together."


    Wrapping his arms around her, he smiled, "Hmm, it feels great to see Seb so happy." Noah had witnessed how tough and hectic things had been for Sebastian all his life and this is the reason why he kept doing silly and mischievous things to add colors in his life. Sebastian was very close to him and all he wanted was for him to be happy no matter what.


    "I am happy that Ellie found someone who will take care of her and can also handle her silliness." Melissa knew Sebastian for three years now and despite his strict decorum and straight behavior, she still always thought highly of him. So after seeing her best friend with a responsible man, she felt quite relieved.


    "You guys, my brother finally found a woman for himself, I am so happy. Ahh Ellie is gonna be my sister-in-law." Turning towards Melissa, Ava added, "I feel so blessed whenever I think about you and Ellie becoming my sister-in-law''s. It feels nice and heart warming."


    Melissa widened her shock and gasped, "Oh God, what will happen to our plan if Ellie marries Sebastian?"


    "What plan babe?"


    "El and I had planned that when we have kids, we would get them married so that we can become in-laws. How will we do this if she marries Sebastian and I marry you?"


    "It''s alright babe, they can be cousins," Noah tried to coax Melissa who seemed quite upset because her plan got ruined.


    ¡­..


    Inside the room.


    "So what do you want to eat?" Sebastian knew that she was definitely hungry as it was almost seven in the evening.


    "Hmm there is no restriction in food right? I can have anything I want to." Ellie asked.


    He frowned and shook his head, "To be on a safer side, we will avoid oily food until you are fully recovered." Thinking for a while, he added, "I don''t think so you should eat takeouts for a whole. Hmm so I''ll quickly rush home and make something for you."


    Grabbing his hand, she pursed her lips. "No, don''t go."


    Placing his hand on hers, he asked, "What happened El?"


    Squeezing his hand, she lowered her head and sighed, "We still don''t know whether the accident was planned or not so it''s still risky outside and I don''t want you to get hurt." She was really worried about his safety after today and had also decided not to move around recklessly in the future with him. Though Sebastian always kept a very low profile, he was still a prominent figure and there was danger everywhere.


    "Hey, nothing will happen to me okay? Whatever happened today was because I let my guard down and acted recklessly but I swear that I''ll be extra careful in the future and watch where I go." He tried to assure her but even after his assurance, when she was still reluctant to let him go, he added, "Okay I won''t go but let me ask Melissa to bring something for you."


    "Hmm, ask her to get something for both of us," Ellie reminded him.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 94 - Bodyguard

    Outside the room.


    When Sebastian stepped out of the room, three wide grinning faces greeted him.


    "What?" Sebastian frowned.


    Noah flicked his brows at him and grinned wider. "So¡ª"


    "So what?"


    Smacking his arm, Ava chuckled, "Oh come on, don''t act like you don''t know what we are talking about. "


    "Dude, I thought I would be the first one to know if you ever like someone." Noah snapped.


    "I don''t know what you are talking about," turning towards Melissa, Sebastian asked, "Mel, can you please send over some food for Ellie?"


    "Yes sure, what does she want to have?" Melissa asked.


    "Something healthy and make sure that it''s less oily," After giving her all the instructions, he entered the room again.


    "Wow, I am literally seeing a new version of him." Ava sighed.


    ¡­.


    Two days later.


    "The doctor said that you can go home today in the evening," Peeling an apple for her, Sebastian added, "I''ll take you home after you get yourself thoroughly checked."


    "Why checked? I am¡ª"


    Shoving a piece of apple inside her mouth, he frowned, "I think we decided not to argue on that anymore."


    "Fine, I''ll do as you say but just this time,"


    Tapping her nose, he smiled, "Good."


    Looking at him, Ellie''s lips curled upwards. For the past two days, Sebastian was staying with her in the hospital and taking care of her as well. He would take her for an evening walk and read out short stories for her until she fell asleep. He used to go home occasionally and bring food for her too.


    The new loving and caring side of him had completely taken over her entire heart, drawing her closer to him.


    Placing her hand on his, she smiled, "Thank you so much for being there with me and taking care of me."


    "Shouldn''t I be the one to thank you? If not for the crazy decision that you took, I would be the one sitting on the bed and you would be peeling this apple for me."


    "Yes and¡ª"


    "Oh my God, honey¡ª" Ellie''s mother, Judith Miller rushed towards her followed by her father, Harry Miller.


    "Mom, dad what are you both doing here?" Ellie was not only shocked but also panicking after seeing her parents all of a sudden.


    Harry frowned and asked, "What? Were you planning to hide this news from us? Well, apart from the fact that you already did, I am very disappointed on you Ellie Miller."


    "Harry," Judith glared at her husband before cupping her daughter''s face. "Honey are you alright and why didn''t you tell us about the accident? We were so worried and scared when Mel told us about it."


    Glaring at her best friend who was quietly standing near the door with a huge ''I AM SO SORRY'' expression on her face, Ellie sighed.


    "Don''t glare at her, you both are the same. Melissa also would''ve never told us about it if we hadn''t forced her too." Massaging his forehead, Harry snapped again, "Here we wanted to give our daughter a surprise but who would''ve thought that she had a whole heart attack scenario ready for us."


    "Dad, I am sorry for not telling you both because I didn''t want you to worry about me and it was just a small accident, nothing so serious." Ellie cried to coax her parents, especially her angry father.


    "Small? You call this small?" Harry frowned and added, "If you fall from your bicycle and get small scratches, that is small. You don''t call an accident in which you end up breaking your head and getting hospitalized for God knows how many days, small or nothing."


    "Mr Miller, I understand your concern but it wasn''t really Ellie''s fault." Sebastian tried to defend Ellie in the best way he could. He had no idea why he was feeling so nervous after seeing her parents all of a sudden. It was like a huge blow which he wasn''t expecting to happen.


    "Mom, dad he is Sebastian, my boss," Ellie introduced him with a tiny sliver of hope to divert everyone''s attention off her.


    Extending his hands towards Sebastian, Harry snapped, "I thought my daughter was working as your assistant and not your bodyguard."


    "Dad," Ellie murmured before looking at her mother for rescue.


    Harry''s blunt words scared the shit out of Sebastian and all he could was helplessly stand there without uttering a single word.


    "Harry, El is all fine now so please calm down."


    "Yes uncle and Sebastian took really good care of El for the last two days." Melissa tried to help Sebastian save some face in front of his could be father-in-law.


    "Dad, it''s not Sebastian''s fault and¡ª"


    Cutting Ellie off, Harry snapped, "Of course it isn''t, I wouldn''t blame anyone for your idiocracy."


    "I did what I felt was the right thing to do," Ellie retorted.


    "Oh come on honey, you don''t go around saving people when you can''t even pass a day without falling." Harry snapped.


    Puffing her cheeks when Ellie turned to the other side, Harry sighed. Walking to her side, he gave her a hug. "I was scared."


    Wrapping her arms around his waist, Ellie nodded her head, "Hmm, I know and I am sorry for not telling you."


    Pulling away, Harry asked, "When are you getting discharged?"


    "Today in the evening," Sebastian answered on her behalf.


    "Great, you are going home with us." Taking out his phone, Harry added, "I will book the tickets."


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and snapped, "What? No, I can''t go home." When her father gave her a weird look, she quickly added, "I mean, I have many pending works and it''s quite hectic in the office." How could she just leave Sebastian and fly back home? What would happen to there every evening movie session and the meals that they shared together? Who would constantly remind him to take a break and make sure he doesn''t overwork himself? Who would make sure that he eats right on time?


    "What are you talking about honey? You are hospitalized and you are still thinking about work?" Looking at Sebastian who had a very strange expression on his face, Harry added, "I am sure that your boss will definitely give you some time off so that you can recuperate well."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 95 - Vibes

    When Sebastian did not say anything for quite some time, Melissa jumped to his rescue again.


    "Of course uncle, Sebastian will never compromise with Ellie''s health," Glaring at him, she pinched his waist and added, "Right Sebastian?"


    Coming out of his daze and left with no other choice, Sebastian reluctantly nodded his head and with a very heavy heart, smiled at her. "She can take some time off." But his smile disappeared when Ellie frowned at him.


    Turning towards Ellie, Harry smiled, "You see? Now you even got permission from your boss so you are coming with us."


    "But¡ª"


    "Honey, I think your dad is right. We can''t leave you all by yourself in this condition." Judith added.


    "But I am not alone, I have Se¡ªI have Mel with me," Ellie retorted, she didn''t wanna go back to her hometown leaving Sebastian alone.


    "Yes aunty uncle, I can take care of El and¡ª"


    "Mel honey, we know you have your own things to do so it will be inconvenient for you too." Judith explained.


    "But mom¡ª"


    "What is wrong with you darling? Don''t you want to stay with your mom and dad for a while?" Harry asked.


    "Fine, I''ll go," Ellie sighed before looking at Sebastian who was already looking at her.


    After exchanging a brief look with her, Sebastian excused himself and walked out of the room because he was scared that if he stayed any longer, he might start begging her not to leave. Though he knew that she would come back but he still did not like the idea of not seeing her for days or maybe weeks. What if she did not come back for a month?


    After stepping out of the room, he gritted his teeth and stormed out of the hospital. He did not have the courage to see her off so decided to leave.


    Stopping midway, he frowned deeper. How could he just leave without seeing her off? What would she think of him if he just left without telling her?


    After calming himself down, he made his way towards her room again.


    ¡­.


    When Ellie saw him again standing near the door, she breathed a sigh of relief. When he barged out without saying anything earlier, she thought he would never come back or see her off.


    "I''ll go and talk to the doctor for a while."


    "I''ll accompany you."


    After Judith and Harry walked out of the room, Melissa also excused herself.


    Picking up her medicines from the table, he said, "Your medicines..the time¡ªnevermind, I will tell your mom about it."


    "I am sorry, my dad¡ªhmm he is not always so rude but¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he shook his head. "It''s alright, I understand how he must be feeling."


    Sitting down beside her, he ran his fingers through her hair. "Take care of yourself okay and don''t worry about work. Just focus on yourself until you feel better."


    Giving him a weak smile, Ellie nodded her head.


    ¡­.


    Two weeks later.


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian''s office


    Massaging his forehead, Sebastian sighed before taking a sip of his regular strong coffee which he was forcefully drinking only to keep himself awake.


    Placing the cup down, he took a deep breath. It had been a week since Ellie left and Sebastian had never felt so low and frustrated in his entire life.


    He was very upset when she left but he was sure that he would feel better later but he never did. In fact, not seeing her around made him feel more awful. Her absence made him feel so empty and hollow from inside, like someone just took away the most important part of his body.


    When he was with Ellie, the sky was pink and, in Ava''s words, even the dog shit he saw on the road looked nice but without her, everything felt and looked so bland.


    Though they were in touch with each other over the phone, her virtual presence wasn''t as satisfying and peaceful as her actual presence.


    He missed her constant long talks, the way she laughed, smiled, coughed, sneezed and¡ªmassaging his forehead, he cursed under his breath. He was going crazy, Ellie''s absence was making him go crazy.


    "Dude, what the hell is wrong with you?" Noah snapped at Sebastian.


    "What?"


    Glaring at him, Noah retorted, "What? Do you have any idea what time it is?"


    Glancing the watch, Sebastian frowned, "It''s 9¡ª"


    "Uh huh and you were supposed to go home like five hours ago."


    When he did not say anything, Noah sighed, "Seb, what the hell is wrong with you? Ava was telling me that you aren''t going home and even if you do, you stay up all night, Patricia told me that you aren''t taking your meals on time and you are also working until midnight."


    Pausing for a while, he added, "I thought Ellie had changed your schedule and you were following that so what happened?"


    "How can I follow Ellie''s schedule without Ellie constantly reminding me what is next? The new schedule is a mess without her." Sebastian sighed, in fact, he was a mess without her.


    When he kept massaging his forehead, Noah helplessly shook his head and started looking for Sebastian''s migraine medicines but when he didn''t find them in the original place, he frowned. "Where are your meds?"


    "I threw them away last month."


    "Why would you do that? You know that your migraine acts up from time to time right?" Noah asked.


    "Because they stopped acting up and I thought they wouldn''t so¡ª"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Noah frowned, "I have no idea what is going on between you and Ellie but for Pete''s sake Seb, she is not dead so will you stop acting like a Romeo? You are giving me those teenage highschool girl vibes, who is upset because his boyfriend forgot to add a heart at the end of the text."


    Pausing for a while, he added, "She is in Seattle on Mars or moon and she will be back on a couple of week and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian snapped, "Couple of weeks? You mean two weeks more?"


    "I guess that is what a couple of weeks means," Noah sleepily replied.


    "Great, just great, so she is not coming back for two more weeks." He muttered before gulping down the entire black coffee.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 96 - Feelings

    When the bitter taste of caffeine evaded his taste buds, Sebastian scrunched his face.


    "Dude, that''s coffee not vodka shots so you gotta drink it slowly."


    Slapping his desk, Sebastian gritted his teeth, "Why would she not come back for another two weeks? How am I supposed to manage everything without her? Did she even think about me before extending her vacation? I am dying here and can''t stop thinking about her and there she keeps extending her stay. This feels ridiculous, doesn''t she care about me and how I feel?"


    Tossing the doc.u.ments aside, he snapped harder, "Do you know how hard it has been for me recently? Why would she do all fun things with me when she wasn''t even going to stay with me? Why did she give me a taste of the delicious sandwiches? Why did she watch movies with me?"


    Massaging her forehead, he sighed, "I just miss her man, I don''t know why but I am missing her a lot. Her presence made me feel so peaceful and happy but now it''s all gone, she took them with her to Seattle."


    When Noah kept grinning at him, Sebastian frowned deeper, "What the f.u.c.k are you smiling at? If you can, tell me what I am supposed to do or just take your shitty ass away from here and give me some peace."


    "Dude, I just made up the two weeks thing."


    "You what? You made that up? Like just made it up? Do you want me to die of a heart attack or anger?" Sebastian snapped.


    "I mean I just thought of it but Ellie never told Mel or anyone that she is gonna stay there for another two weeks but neither did she say that she is going to come back soon," Noah explained.


    "That is the problem, neither is she telling me when she will come back nor is she talking to me properly. Whenever I call her, she is always so quiet and you know how El is right? She likes talking a lot without giving a damn about whether she is talking sense or not," Pausing for a while, Sebastian asked, "Do you think she is angry with me?"


    Tapping his fingers on the desk, Noah asked, "So did you tell her?"


    "Tell her what?"


    "That you like her."


    Sebastian widened his eyes in shock, "What? What the hell are you talking about? I don''t like Ellie."


    "Are you kidding me? How can you still deny that?" Noah asked.


    "Hey, I am not denying anything."


    "Oh come on man, you are behaving like a fish without water. I can see it, in fact, everyone can see it. Even my unborn daughter can easily figure out that you are already head over heels for Ellie." When Sebastian gave him a weird look, Noah added, "Okay so tell me something, do you feel butterflies when she is near you? Do you feel in cloud nine when she smiles at you? Do you feel happy when she is happy? Does your heart ache when she gets hurt? Do you start to panic and feel uneasy when you don''t see her? Do you feel electrified when she accidentally or intentionally touches you?"


    Getting up, Noah smiled, "If yes then welcome to the lovers land my brother."


    ¡­.


    Seattle, Washington.


    Ellie''s place.


    Staring at her phone, Ellie wondered if she should give him a call or not. It had two weeks since she had not seen him but it felt like a decade. She was missing him so much that her heart ached whenever she heard his voice. She wanted to tell him that she missed him alot but she always chose to endure it thinking that he would find it weird.


    Burying her face on the pillow, she sighed. Why wouldn''t anyone find it weird? Though she was a bit close to Sebastian but that didn''t overshadow the fact that they shared a boss and employee relationship.


    Sitting up, she crossed her arms in the front and frowned. She didn''t want to have just a boss and employee relationship with him, she wanted more and may be much more from him but did he want the same from her? Did he feel the same for him like she did? Was he missing her like she was?


    With several questions running in her head, she groaned in frustration.


    "Honey, can I come in?" Judith asked.


    Composing and calming herself down, Ellie said, "Of course mom."


    Passing her a glass of lukewarm milk, Judith asked, "Are you preparing to sleep?"


    "Hmm, I was planning to."


    Patting her daughters head, Judith smiled, "Since your dad is not here, why don''t you tell me more about your relationship with your boss."


    Choking on the milk she was drinking, Ellie coughed vigorously. "W¡ªWhat are you talking about mom? What relationship?"


    "Ahh so there is nothing going on between you and your boss? Hmm well, I thought you both had something cute going on."


    "What made you think that there was something between us?" Ellie curiously asked hoping that her mom would point out something that she had failed to notice.


    "Well, the way you both were exchanging brief glances, your reluctance to leave him alone and fly back with us, the way he was looking at you and¡ª"


    Cutting Judith off, Ellie enquired, "What kind of way?"


    "Hmm, like the way you look at your favorite ice cream when you are sick. You want to have it but you can''t because you are sick." Judith explained.


    When Ellie did not say anything, she added, "And the way he was telling me about your medicines, oh my God, not only did he tell me the exact time but he also remembered all the names of yours medicines, which by the way I thought was a little creepy."


    Ellie chuckled and vigorously shook her head, "No it''s not creepy, it''s one of the best qualities that he has." Placing the glass on the bedside table, she added, "You know mom, maybe he looks cold and unapproachable from the outside but he is actually the sweetest and kindest."


    ...

 Chapter 97 - Blind date

    "I see, well seems like you both share a greater bond than I thought," Judith smiled.


    "It''s nothing like you think," Ellie denied.


    "Okay so tell me what I should think."


    Thinking for a while, Ellie tried to come up with a best way to explain what kind of relationship they share. "We spend a lot of time together like we watch movies together, eat our meals together and he loves the sandwiches that I make for him."


    "The tuna or salami one?" Judith asked.


    "Both and he loves grandma''s special soup recipe and you know what mom, he eats them all day but he never gets bored or tired of it. In fact, he keeps looking for ways to persuade him to make one. We play board games and I force him to watch Disney movies with me." Ellie excitedly explained. Thinking about the time she had spent with Sebastian never failed to bring a smile on her face and she could smile all day without getting tried. Maybe they had just spent a couple of months together but the memories and bond that they shared felt like they had met decades ago. It just felt very warm and comforting.


    "Honey, are you sure that you are not dating him?" Judith asked.


    "What? No mom, we aren''t dating. Why would you think that we are?" Ellie asked.


    "Because you sound like you are. Watching movies together, sharing all the meals together, spending time together and you are cooking for him too." Pausing for a while, Judith added, "These are the things your dad and I used to do when we started dating back then."


    "Honey, where is my wallet?" Harry shouted from downstairs.


    Kissing Ellie''s forehead, Judith smiled, "I don''t know what is going on and I want to interfere either. All I want is for you to be happy."


    "I love you mom."


    "I love you too sweetheart."


    ¡­..


    Next day.


    Sebastian''s place.


    Sebastian frowned when he saw Owen, Noah and Calvin in his living room, happily munching on the snacks he had bought for Ellie.


    Snatching the box of chocolate that Owen was about to open, Sebastian snapped, "Who told you all to touch this bag?" Shoving the leftover snacks inside the bag, he added, "If you want anything in the future, ask me."


    "Dude what are you so cranky about early in the morning? It''s just snacks, they are manufactured to be eaten," Calvin retorted.


    "Yes and later we just shit them out," Owen added, earning a weird glare from everyone.


    "Are you sure you did not hit your head somewhere Owen?" Without waiting for his reply, Noah added, "Because I think you did. "


    "No I didn''t and I even had a MRI and CAT done but everything is okay." Owen sighed.


    "Hey Seb, why can''t we eat these? Did you buy it for someone special?" Noah asked.


    Grinning from ear to ear, Calvin beamed, "Maybe he bought it for Ellie."


    Sebastian frowned and glared at Noah who was trying to ignore his gaze.


    "Hey, don''t look at Noah like that because we already knew there was something going on between you and El."


    "Cal is right and Noah just confirmed our suspicion," Owen added before trying to sneakily take a chocolate from the bag.


    Slapping his hand away, Sebastian placed the bags separately on the dining table so that no one could touch it.


    "So will you tell us what''s going on?" Owen asked.


    "We can help you with this whole confession thing," Calvin added.


    "Yes and¡ª" Noah stopped midway when his phone started ringing.


    Looking at the caller ID, he frowned, "Why? Why? Why would she call me?"


    "Who?" Sebastian asked.


    "Aunt Rebecca," Noah snapped.


    Owen and Calvin scrunched their faces while Sebastian sighed.


    Reluctantly picking up the call, Noah started talking to Rebecca in the best polite way he could.


    "Hey aunt...Sebastian? Yes he is with me." Passing the phone to him, Noah helplessly shook his head. He could already say that Sebastian''s mom was about to create a ruckus again.


    Sebastian, who had been ignoring his mother''s call for quite some time, was not in a mood to deal with her but he had no other choice.


    "What is wrong with you? Why aren''t you receiving my calls?" Rebecca yelled at her son. She had been trying to contact him for three weeks now but he kept ignoring her calls and messages.


    "I was busy."


    Sebastian''s straight and blunt reply made her even more angry but she decided to keep her calm.


    "Anyway, I want to go on a date today with Mr Nelson''s niece in the evening and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "I am not going anywhere today."


    "Why?"


    "I need to work," he retorted, there was no way he would go on a date with anyone.


    "Stop making excuses and do what you are told to Sebastian Stewart. Either you go there on your own or I''ll fly back right now and force you to go there in person." She snapped.


    "Alright, remind me to send you a car at the airport," he sneered before hanging up the call.


    Taking the phone from his hand, Noah frowned, "They are coming back?"


    "Yes¡ª"


    "What?" Ava shouted before rushing towards Sebastian. "She is coming back? But why? I thought they weren''t any time soon."


    "She asked me to go on a blind date again," Sebastian explained.


    "Date? What happened to Ellie then?" Owen asked.


    "Nothing happened to Ellie okay? And I am not going on any date," he snapped.


    "Then why the hell is she coming back?" Ava snapped, she was literally freaking out. She didn''t want her parents to come back anytime soon. Her good days with her friends and Calvin would surely be restricted to the extent where she starts feeling suffocated and everything would start falling apart.


    "She will come back if I don''t go on that date."


    "Damn, I am sorry man but your mother is a pain in everyone''s ass," Owen sneered.


    "What are you gonna do now Seb?" Calvin asked.


    Ava frowned and hissed, "What? Just go on that stupid date and prevent her from coming back."


    "What? There is no way I am going anywhere," Sebastian frowned.


    Keeping quiet for sometime, Noah suggested, "I think you should go."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 98 - Date with Charlotte Adams

    "What? What the hell are you talking about Noah? How can I go on a date with just anyone when I¡ª" stopping midway, Sebastian tried to calm himself down.


    "When you what?" Ava asked.


    Taking a deep breath, Noah explained, "Okay, listen to me Seb. Things are gonna be really chaotic and difficult if aunt Reb comes back and you know what I am talking about."


    "I don''t understand, what¡ª"


    Cutting Sebastian off, Ava snapped, "He is talking about you and Ellie you idiot. If mom comes back, she will keep clinging onto your peaceful life and wreck your peaceful life. You won''t be able to spend time and roam around with El and my life is going to be more difficult than it already was because she will force me to go on a date with that creepy guy."


    Looking at Ava who was on the verge of crying, Noah sighed, "Exactly my point."


    "You can just show your face and then walk out," Owen suggested.


    "Yes, it''s not like you need to stay there and chat with her," Calvin added.


    After thinking about it quite some time, Sebastian reluctantly nodded his head. He didn''t want his mom to wreck what he had with Ellie and it''s not like he would stop hanging out with her because of his mother. He wanted their relationship to run smoothly without any hindrance until they figure out what would happen next.


    ¡­..


    2 p.m


    Liplop Cafe.


    Grumpily making his way towards a woman who was busy checking out her nails, Sebastian sat down right across her.


    Raising her brows, Charlotte asked, "What are you doing here?"


    "Aren''t you Mr Nelson''s niece?" He frowned.


    Placing her hand on her chest, she gasped, "Are you Sebastian Yogurt?"


    "Yogurt? It''s Stewart," he frowned deeper.


    Tilting her head, she asked, "What''s the difference?"


    "What?"


    "I mean what is the difference between Yogurt and Stewart? It sounds the same to me." Without waiting for his reply, Charlotte added, "Okay, let''s forget about that for now."


    Taking out a paper from her Louis Vuitton bag, she continued, "Okay so answer a few questions first."


    "What¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she started firing him with her questions. "Name any two fashion brands."


    When Sebastian gave her a weird look, she muttered, "I knew it," before scratching it out.


    "Hey, I am not here to play a quiz or something with you." He was already frustrated over the fact that he had to come on a forced date with another woman when he was missing Ellie a lot and now Charlotte''s irritating behaviour was making him feel more frustrated.


    "Yeah, I know you are here with a hope that I would willingly date you just because you are some kind of rich businessman but¡ª" snapping her fingers, she added, "Well hello mister, you need to have something more than just money to date Charlotte Adam''s."


    "Who wants to date you?"


    Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "You, you want to date me and that is the reason why you are here."


    Keeping the paper inside her bag, she added, "Okay, I''ll give you a last chance because uncle wants me to be good to you. So tell me any three shades of pink."


    "Shades of pink? Pink is a colour so what shades?" He snapped.


    Giving him a weird cringey look, Charlotte grabbed her bag. "God bless the woman who will date you." Without waiting for his reply, she started walking out of the cafe.


    "Hey stop," Sebastian called her out.


    "What is it?"


    "What do you mean by God bless the woman who dates me?" Her remark was making him feel uncomfortable and self conscious and now he wanted to know what Charlotte was talking about not because he cared what she thought. He was just worried that Ellie would never date him because something was seriously very wrong with him.


    Glancing at her watch, she sighed, "I have a facial schedule in an hour but I''ll still help you out with this."


    Sitting down in her seat, she crossed her arms in the front. "Hmm, God bless the woman who will date you because you have zero fashion sense."


    When Sebastian frowned, she added, "I mean just look at yourself in the mirror, look at the clothes you are wearing. Well, I know that is a Burberry suit but look at that colour."


    Looking at his suit, he said, "It''s black."


    "It''s dull, I mean what kind of a retard wears a black suit, white shirt and weird looking plaid tie on a date with a woman as beautiful as me?" She asked.


    After losing her parents at the age of five, Charlotte had been pampered and brought up like a real princess by her maternal uncle, Albert Nelson.


    Twenty-six years Charlotte Adam''s was a self obsessed woman who cared about nothing but fashion. Her day started with praising her morning face and ended with praising her flawless night skin again. She cared more about her nails than real people which made her unique in her own way.


    There were a lot of men who wanted to date her but they obviously never excited the fashion obsessed Charlotte. She wanted to date someone like herself, someone who would be as obsessed as she is for fashion.


    Though she had a very high IQ in fashion, her knowledge over other things was negligible.


    "You see Mr Yogurt, you gotta make sure that you choose your date clothes according to the location." Looking around, she asked, "Why do you think I wore this informal red dress today?"


    "Because you wanted to?" Sebastian answered.


    "No dummy because it''s a cafe. Now if we were supposed to meet for dinner in some restaurant then I would be wearing a straight long dress but look at you, wearing a suit for a cafe date." She sighed and helplessly shook her head.


    Looking at his suit once again, he frowned wondering what was so wrong about it.


    "You should be wearing something informal for a cafe date and this kind of suit for a formal dinner date." When he gave her a blank look, she groaned, "I feel like I am talking to a dead body."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he asked, "So you mean I don''t look nice in this suit?"


    "Hmm, I won''t lie to you because I pity people like you who have zero fashion sense. It does look good because God is kind enough to grace you with a pretty face but that face is of no use if you don''t know how to dress up or match colors." Charlotte explained.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 99 - Stronger

    "Okay, I will tell you a story about Matt¡ª"


    "Who is Matt ?" Sebastian asked.


    "Just listen to the damn story," she hissed before taking a deep breath. "Okay Matt was a very pretty guy just like you and he was rich too but no women wanted to be with him. They dated him for some time and then ran away from his sight. There was a woman he liked and he was head over heels for her. So he tried to woo her because he thought that the girl liked him too."


    When she did not say anything for a long time, he asked, "What happened after that?"


    "Oh nothing happened, he died single and alone."


    "But why? What happened to the girl he liked?"


    "Ahh that girl did not like her back. Like I said before, he thought she likes him too," she answered.


    "But why?" Sebastian frowned.


    Glancing at his nails, she sighed, "Because Matt was dull, boring, short tempered and he had zero sense in fashion just like you."


    Frowning deeper, he gritted his teeth, "What kind of a stupid story is that? Why would any woman leave a man with a bad fashion sense?" Why would Ellie leave him for such a stupid reason?


    "Oh, I am talking about me and I don''t know about others,"


    Taking a deep breath, he snapped, "Good because Ellie is not like that."


    Crossing her arms on the chest, she raised her brows, "So there is a Ellie but yet you are here on a date with me, how gay are you Sebastian Yogurt?"


    "It''s Ste¡ª" stopping midway, he sighed, "Forget it." If it had been an ordinary day, he would''ve never tolerated all the shitty things that Charlotte was sprouting but currently, he had no strength to retort with her as he was too stressed thinking about Ellie and when she would come back.


    "I may sound nosy but does this Ellie girl like you? I mean if she likes you for that face then it''s understandable."


    "I don''t know."


    "You what?"


    "I don''t know whether she likes me or not,"


    "So stop being a baby and ask her," Charlotte commanded.


    "It''s not that easy okay? And¡ª" running his hands through his face, he sighed, "Why the hell am I still talking to you?"


    Glancing at her watch, she said, "Hmm since I have ten minutes to spare, let me give you some Char lessons."


    Ignoring Sebastian''s silly expressions, she continued anyway, "So I have around hundreds plus bags in my bag wardrobe and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he frowned, "Look, I don''t have time to hear your bag story."


    "Let me complete first," she snapped louder than before. "Okay so as I was saying, I already have many bags some of which still have the tags on. I don''t really use them, I just buy them because I like it. Well, that is a different story so let me come to the main point."


    Pausing for a while, she continued, "You see I don''t know much about love or relationsh.i.p.s but I do know my love for bags and other fashion things is unconditional. Anyway, so when I see a bag in a store which is according to my taste, do you know why I buy it even though I know that I already have so many?"


    When Sebastian did not say anything, she added, "Because I am scared that if I don''t buy it as soon as I see it, someone else will come and take it away and I''ll be left with only regret. And trust me Mr Yogurt that regret feeling sucks. You know one day¡ª" She stopped midway when Sebastian suddenly got up.


    "It was nice meeting you but I gotta go." Without waiting for her reply, be rushed out of the cafe.


    ¡­..


    Hopping into his car, he quickly took out his phone and called Patricia.


    "Good afternoon bo¡ª"


    "Send me Ellie''s Seattle home address and ask Noah to take over everything for a couple of days."


    Patricia smiled and nodded her head, "Right away boss."


    After hanging up the call, Sebastian started his car and quickly drove towards his apartment to grab a couple of things before flying over to Seattle to get his Ellie back.


    He had no idea what Charlotte was talking about her bags but he couldn''t stop relating the whole bag and regretting incident with Ellie. The constant feeling of losing her if she stayed away from him any longer was getting so strong that he couldn''t ignore it anymore.


    With a determination of bringing her back with him and then sorting out his feelings accordingly, he started making arrangements.


    ¡­..


    Seattle


    Ellie''s place.


    "So when are you coming back?" Melissa asked.


    Slumping on the bed, Ellie sighed, "I really don''t know Mel, dad doesn''t want me to go back yet."


    "It''s already been two weeks El and let me tell you a secret, someone is missing you alot."


    "Who?"


    "Oh come on, don''t act like you don''t know who I am talking about¡ªfine, if you wanna hear it from me then, I am talking about Seb."


    Ellie''s heart started pounding and she started feeling giddy. A brief mention of his name made her heart skip several beats. But her happiness vanished when something crossed her mind. If he was really missing her then why hadn''t he called her today?


    Glancing at the watch, she frowned. It was almost evening and yet he hadn''t called or messaged her. Is this how a person who is missing someone behaves?


    "El? You there?"


    "Hmm, yes."


    "So as I was saying, Sebas¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ellie sighed, "Forget it Mel."


    "Wait, why? I thought you like him."


    ''So what if I like him, he doesn''t'' Ellie thought.


    When she did not say anything for a long time, Melissa frowned, "Hey, why aren''t you saying anything? I thought that you like Seb and¡ª"


    "Honey cookies are ready so come down fast," Judith shouted.


    "Hmm I gotta go now Mel, I''ll talk to you later okay?" After hanging up the call, Ellie tossed her phone aside and rushed downstairs.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 100 - Abnormal

    Dining area.


    When Ellie kept fiddling with the cookies which were her favorite, Harry frowned, "What happened sweetheart? Is everything alright?"


    "Yes dad everything is alright," Ellie answered before taking a bite of the cookie.


    "Sweetheart, I was thinking that you should come back to Seattle and stay with us¡ª"


    "I thought we had already had a nice discussion over this dad." When Ellie wanted to move out of Seattle to try something big, Harry was very reluctant to let her go but after hours of discussion, they mutually decided that Ellie would be allowed to move out but if things don''t work out well and if Harry senses anything wrong, she would have to move back again.


    "I know honey and that is why I am asking you to move back again because I don''t think you are safe in L.A anymore." When Ellie gave him a weird look, Harry added, "That was the deal wasn''t it? I am sensing something wrong so I want you to move back with us again."


    "Dad, that was an accident and it wasn''t anyone''s fault so will you please stop thinking about that? I am perfectly okay now." Ellie knew he was scared because of the sudden accident that had happened but there was no way she would move back again. Apart from the fact that Sebastian was the major reason why she couldn''t leave L.A, she liked living there too. She also had a fantastic job and fabulous friends, so how could she leave everything and move back?


    "Sweety¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Judith snapped, "Harry stop it, our El is a big girl now and she knows what is best for her. As parents, we are supposed to support her not come in between her dreams."


    Harry sighed and helplessly shook his head. "Fine but you have to stay with us for another two weeks."


    Ellie smiled and nodded her head, "Okay."


    Just then someone rang the doorbell.


    "I''ll go see who it is and you enjoy your cookies," Harry said before walking towards the door.


    Holding a bottle of wine and a big box of chocolate, Sebastian smiled when Harry opened the door.


    "Good evening Mr Miller," he politely greeted him.


    "Who is it da¡ªSeba¡ªI mean boss?" Ellie widened her eyes in shock when she saw him. Thinking that she might be hallucinating, she blinked twice and thrice before looking at his handsome face again.


    Tightening his grip around the gifts that he had brought for the Millers, Sebastian resisted the strong urge to pull her into his embrace and hug her to his heart''s content. He had missed so bad that seeing her again after 14 days 22 hours and 50 minutes was making his heart dance and jump inside his chest.


    Ellie on the other hand was feeling exactly how he was but she was more shocked and surprised than giddy and happy. There she was upset and angry because he hadn''t called her all day but he was actually flying over all the way to Seattle to see her? Her heart bloomed in joy and she couldn''t contain her smile.


    Sebastian''s lips curled upwards when he saw her smile. After seeing her, he realised how much he had missed her, her smile, her beautiful face, her soft and silky hair, her cute little nose, her hands which looked so perfect on his.


    "Good evening," Harry greeted him back and invited him in.


    Passing the wine and chocolates to Judith, Sebastian sighed, "I was in a rush so¡ª"


    "Ahh it''s alright, you didn''t have to get anything but thank you so much for this," Judith smiled.


    Sitting down beside Harry, Sebastian kept looking around to avoid his intense gaze which was making him feel very nervous. He had no idea why he felt so suffocated when Ellie''s father was around him. He had thought that he was nervous in the hospital because Ellie was injured because of him but who would''ve thought that he would still feel super nervous now.


    "So what brought you here?" Harry asked.


    "Dad¡ª" Sitting down beside Sebastian, Ellie gave her father a meaningful look.


    "What? I am just asking because I thought he had a meeting nearby so he decided to drop by and visit you," Harry explained.


    "Actually¡ª"


    Cutting Sebastian off, Ellie explained, "Boss had a meeting schedule here in Seattle," turning towards him, she added, "You could''ve called and reminded me about the meeting so that I could''ve accompanied you boss."


    "Hmm it''s alright, I didn''t want to disturb you when you are on a break."


    "Sweetheart, why don''t you show your boss the new park nearby?" Judith asked.


    "Yes that sounds gre¡ª"


    Cutting Ellie off, Harry frowned, "Why park? You haven''t fully recovered yet so you shouldn''t go out."


    "She is fine Harry," turing towards Ellie, Judith smiled, "Don''t forget to take your jacket."


    "I''ll go get one," Ellie said before rushing towards her room.


    "Would like to have something?" Judith asked.


    "Thank you so much Mrs Miller but I am okay," avoiding Harry''s glare, Sebastian excused himself, "I''ll wait for her outside."


    After Sebastian left, Judith placed her hand on her waist and glared at her husband.


    Harry shrugged his shoulders and asked, "What?"


    "Will stop acting like that? He is your daughters boss so you need to be more polite with him,"


    "He is Ellie''s boss not mine," he snapped.


    Placing her hand on his shoulder, Judith sighed, "Honey, I know you are protecting of our daughter but that doesn''t mean you can restrict her like that."


    "Right, a boss who comes all the way to our place with gifts and now you just asked our daughter to take him to the park." Placing his hand on Judith''s shoulder he asked, "Do you think this is normal?"


    "I don''t see anything abnormal in that either¡ª" Taking a deep breath, she continued, "Ellie is big enough to take her own decisions now. So as good and supportive parents, we need to let her do what she wants and correct her only if she does something inappropriate." Pausing for a while, she added, "And we both know that our El will never fo anything inappropriate or wrong."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 101 - Embarrassed

    "Fine but I am still not sure about the whole dating the boss thing," Harry snapped.


    "We can''t decide for her and what is so wrong about that?" Holding his hand, Judith smiled, "All our life, we made sure that Ellie gets whatever she wants. We have always taught her to be independent and strong. We never stopped her from doing anything and always let her take her own decisions so don''t you think we should keep that up and let her take her own decisions?"


    Wrapping his arms around her, he sighed, "Alright, I''ll listen to you."


    "Mom did you see my¡ªwoah," placing her hand on her chest, Ellie gasped, "Did I just interrupt your happy and romantic time Mr and Mrs Miller?"


    Pulling away, Judith asked, "What do you want honey?"


    "Did you see my brown jacket?" Ellie anxiously asked.


    "It''s inside your cupboard."


    "Oh okay." looking around, she frowned when she did not see Sebastian.


    "He is waiting for you outside," Judith chuckled.


    Awkwardly scratching her head, Ellie excused herself and rushed towards her room again. She didn''t want to keep him waiting.


    ¡­


    Checking herself out on the mirror for God knows how many times Ellie rushed out of her room.


    Giving her mom and dad a peck on their cheeks, she rushed out of the house.


    ¡­.


    Outside.


    With his hands tucked inside his coat pocket, Sebastian was patiently waiting for her near the entrance. He was still wearing the same black suit as he did not get enough time to change into sometime a little informal.


    He was still bothered with the fashion sense talk he had with Charlotte but right now his top priority was to convince Ellie to fly back with him to L.A.


    "Why did you come out? I was looking for you inside," Ellie asked.


    "It''s alright, I hope I didn''t disturb you," he asked.


    "Of course not, I actually do nothing all day because dad keeps nagging me to take some rest."


    "That is nice, you should take proper care of yourself."


    Looking at his exhausted face, she slightly frowned wondering if he had overworked himself again while she was away. Taking a mental note to ask Patricia about it, she guided him towards the park.


    ¡­.


    Park


    "How is work now?" Ellie asked.


    "Forget about work for now," grabbing her hand, he dragged her towards the nearby bench.


    Holding her hand, he added, "I didn''t have any meeting in Seattle."


    "I know," she smiled.


    "When are you coming back?" Without waiting for her reply, he continued, "I''ll be going back tomorrow, will you come with me?"


    When she did not say anything, he anxiously added, "Look Ellie, I don''t know what is happening but I am not liking your absence in the office or in my day to day life. I have had the toughest two weeks and I cannot hold on any longer without you so please, come back. I-I really miss our movie time and our board game. I am even used to the coffee that you make so what Patricia or I make doesn''t taste good. Nothing feels right without you Ellie."


    He knew he was sounding very desperate but did he care? No he didn''t. All he wanted was to take back Ellie and keep her close to him.


    "I miss everything too but dad wants me to stay here for two more weeks and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, he frowned, "What? Two more weeks?"


    "I know but he is very scared and worried after that incident and if I just leave right now, I am sure that he will fly back every now and then to check on me. I don''t want him to take any kind of stress or tire himself out. I was about to talk to you about tonight but¡ª" Though she was feeling exactly what he was, she had already promised her father that she would stay and there was no turning back now.


    Letting go off her hand, he took a deep breath, "Alright then, you should stay." Cursing himself for acting all clingy and desperate when she clearly didn''t want to be with him, he added, "Make sure to send an email to Patricia about the extended leave and don''t worry, I''ll make sure that it gets approved."


    "Seba¡ª" she stopped midway when he suddenly got up.


    "I am sorry for forcing you to come back, I¡ªI have no idea why I did that. I''ll take my leave now," he said before walking away.


    Grabbing his hand, she frowned, "I thought you were leaving tomorrow."


    "Yeah¡ªmmm I think I''ll take an evening flight instead." He didn''t want to stay any longer and embarrass himself even more because he was worried that he would end up begging her to return back with him when she clearly didn''t want to.


    "Listen to me at least Sebastian I¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he said, "No it''s alright, I think I was just super stressed so I had no idea what I was doing. I¡ª" Looking at her, he took a deep breath. "I should go now."


    Slowly removing her hand from his, he sighed and walked away.


    Ellie wanted to call him out but she couldn''t gather the courage to do so. She knew he was hurt, she could see it in his eyes and knowing that she was the reason behind it made her feel very awful.


    She wanted to tell him that she was missing him alot too and kept thinking about him all day. Even she missed their movie time and their childish board game. But instead of making the moment special, she wrecked everything.


    He flew all the way to Seattle to visit her and to take her back with him but what did she do? She mercilessly turned him down.


    Covering her face with her hands, she groaned in frustration. She had wanted their walk in the park and the evening to be a memorable one.


    Though it was surely a very memorable one but in a very different and cruel way.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 102 - Special bond

    Ellie''s place.


    Backyard.


    Lying on the grass, Ellie took a deep breath before closing her eyes. It had been almost a couple of hours since she came back from the park feeling very low and rejected but she still couldn''t take Sebastian off her mind. She tried to distract herself so that she would feel a little less awful but she ended up thinking about him anyway.


    After dinner, she wanted to freshen up her mind by taking a walk in the backyard but she again ended up thinking about him.


    Looking at the beautiful night sky, she sighed. It would''ve been more beautiful if he would''ve been with her. She was missing his cute smile, his handsome face, the way he smiled, the way he cutely tapped her nose, the way he held her hand.


    Looking at her hand, she took a deep breath before placing it on her chest. She was missing his hand on hers.


    Only if she could see him again and tell him how much she was missing him and how special she felt about him but she knew that he was already gone and maybe didn''t want to see her again.


    She had no idea what would happen to the special bond that they share if she stays in Seattle for two more weeks after the awful meeting they had. She wanted to go back but she didn''t want to hurt her parent''s feelings as well.


    "It''s cold," sitting down beside her, Harry pulled her up and dr.a.p.ed a jacket around her.


    "Thanks dad," Ellie sighed.


    Pointing towards the fence, he chuckled, "Remember how you had somehow managed to hit your head on that when you were little?"


    "I was learning how to skate at that time and those skates were abnormal," Ellie retorted.


    "No honey, your balance is abnormal."


    "Dad¡ª"


    Wrapping his arms around her shoulder, Harry chuckled, "Alright, I won''t bring that up." Pausing for a while, he added, "You know sweety, that fall was needed not because it was funny but because it helped you understand that skating isn''t a piece of cake so you need to work harder in order to learn it. Why do you think we face failures in life? It''s to make us realize how tough life is and how we need to work harder in order to survive. And the same theory applies for relationsh.i.p.s."


    "How?"


    "You see honey, it is easy to fall in and fall out of love but relationship isn''t about how much you love your partner or what are the list of things you can do for him. The way you handle your relationship is what that matters. Arguments and differences are bound to happen in a relationship but how you deal with it and sort it out is what counts. The willingness and eagerness to be with one another is what matters." He continued.


    Looking at her father, she smiled, "Why are we suddenly talking about relationsh.i.p.s?"


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, Harry shrugged his shoulders, "No specific reason, I just thought that I should start imparting my relationship knowledge too."


    When Ellie sighed and snuggled closer, he asked, "What happened honey? Is there something that is stressing you out."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she shook her head, "No dad."


    "Hmm so where is your boss staying? I mean which hotel?"


    Pulling away, Ellie pulled the jacket closer and answered, "He left."


    "Left? Already? Your mom was planning to call him over for lunch tomorrow."


    "He had to leave because he had an urgent meeting so¡ª" stopping midway, Ellie sighed. "I''ll go tell mom not to arrange anything."


    When Harry smiled and nodded his head, Ellie left.


    ¡­.


    Los Angeles


    10:00 am


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian''s office.


    Tossing the file on his desk, Sebastian yelled, "The meeting was supposed to start at 9 but you people arrived late and now even your report is incomplete, what am I paying you all for? To party around and slack all day?"


    "But boss the meeting was supposed to start at eleven and¡ª"


    "Who said that the meeting would start at eleven?" Sebastian retorted.


    Lowering his head, the head of the marketing department tried to explain, "Ms Miller gave us the schedule a day before she took a leave."


    The brief mention of Ellie''s made him feel more frustrated and angry than he already was.


    After coming back from Seattle, Sebastian locked himself inside his room and stepped out directly in the morning. He was more sad than angry not because she had turned down but he was angry at himself for acting like a complete idiot and making a fool out of himself in front of her. He was also sad because she didn''t feel the same way as he did and that feeling sucked, it was making him feel awful.


    He flew back all the way to Seattle, both happy and excited to see her only to find out that she wasn''t interested in him. Sebastian had never felt so embarrassed and awkward in his entire life. He had no idea how he would face Ellie after she comes back.


    "Boss you called me?" Patricia asked.


    "Yes, did you receive any email from El¡ª" closing his eyes, Sebastian sighed, "Did you receive any email from Ms Miller?"


    "No boss."


    "If you do, just approve her leave."


    Patricia nodded her head and rushed out of the office to tell Noah about Sebastian''s bad mood so that he would come and save the employees from Sebastian''s wrath.


    "Go and prepare your respective teams for the meeting, you have five minutes in hand," Sebastian yelled at the employees.


    Without wasting any time, the employees rushed out of Sebastian''s office.


    Slumping on his chair, Sebastian massaged his forehead. He had been shouting since morning and his head was pounding but he still couldn''t stop thinking about Ellie.


    Gritting his teeth, he cursed himself for still missing her even after embarrassing himself. Why did he care when she clearly didn''t? Why did he still want to hug her?


    Closing his eyes, he kept massaging his head and tried to ease his emotions and his headache.


    "Do you want some coffee?"


    "No I don''t need anything, just leave me alone and get out of here," he snapped.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie faked a sigh, "Hmm and here I thought you were missing my coffee."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 103 - "I cant breath"

    Outside Noah''s office.


    "What do you mean by Seb is angry? I thought he was in Seattle with Ellie," Noah inquired.


    "Yes but he came back and now he is super angry at everyone." Pausing for a while, Patricia added, "I think Ellie isn''t coming back anytime soon because he just asked me to approve her leave."


    Massaging his forehead, Noah sighed, "Alright I''ll check him out."


    After Patricia left, Noah rushed towards Sebastian''s office.


    ¡­.


    Inside Sebastian''s office.


    Sebastian frowned and opened his eyes only to find Ellie standing near the door with the sweetest smile on her face.


    The initial embarrassment, sadness and awkwardness he was feeling vanished in thin air and his heart beamed in joy.


    Letting go all the rights and wrongs behind, he rushed towards her and pulled her into his embrace. He didn''t care about anything else, he just wanted to hug her and he did.


    "Thank God you are here," he muttered before hugging her tighter.


    The sudden unexpected tight hug made Ellie blush. She was very embarrassed and worried after the incident because she thought that Sebastian wouldn''t want her anymore but her heart felt so peaceful and warm as soon as he held her in his embrace. So without wasting any time, she pressed her hands on his back and hugged him back.


    Standing by the door, Noah smiled and closed the door before leaving, giving the couple all the privacy that they wanted.


    Kissing the top of her head, Sebastian hugged her tighter. The feeling of having her in his embrace felt so good that he didn''t want to let her go. He had been missing her for two whole weeks and after what happened yesterday, he missed her even more though he was embarrassed too.


    "Seb,"


    "Hmm,"


    "I can''t breathe," Ellie reluctantly said. She wanted him to hug her for some time but he kept tightening his grip around her, making her feel suffocated.


    Quickly pulling away, he awkwardly scratched his forehead. "Hmm, I thought you weren''t coming back any time soon."


    "Do you want me to go back?" she asked.


    Widening his eyes in shock, vigorously shook his head and snapped, "No¡ª" awkwardly cleaning his throat, he added, "I mean, you can go if your dad wants you to¡ª" He stop midway and froze when Ellie suddenly hugged him.


    "You talk to much, you did not listen to me yesterday so let me at least talk now." Lifting her head, she added, "I''ve missed you a lot, I missed making sandwiches for you, our movie nights, our board games."


    Pulling away, she blushed, "I wanted to tell you how much I miss you yesterday but you were in a hurry to leave so¡ª"


    "No no, I wasn''t in a hurry I just¡ª" placing his hand on her shoulder, he sighed, "I just thought that may be you don''t wanna come because¡ª"


    When he did not say anything, she asked, "Because what?"


    "I thought you don''t wanna come back because you don''t wanna be with me and you don''t miss me."


    When Sebastian sighed and lowered his head, Ellie chuckled, "Why would you think that?" Placing her hand on her waist, she raised her brows, "So you think that you are the only one between is who cares? Do you think I am that cruel?"


    He widened his eyes in shock and vigorously shook his head. "Of course not, you aren''t cruel. In fact, you are the sweetest of all and¨C"


    Placing her hand on his arm, she chuckled, "I was just joking with you, I know that you would never think that I am cruel."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled, "I am glad that you are back."


    "Me too, now I''ll go and make some coffee for us first. I have a lot to catch up."


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he said, "Don''t worry about work, I have pretty much completed everything so there is no pending work."


    "Did you overwork again when I was away?"


    "No, not at all," He lied.


    When Ellie raised her brows, Sebastian gulped in fear. There was no way he would tell about the sleepless nights and how he was working until midnight, he didn''t want to piss her off.


    "Really? So are you telling me that you followed my schedule and did not overwork yourself?" She asked.


    "Absolutely."


    "I hope you are not lying to me Sebastian because if I find out taht you are then¡ª" poking his chest, she adder, "No sandwiches for you."


    Without waiting for his reply, she walked out of the office to the pantry.


    Slumping on the couch, he breathed a sigh of relief. Taking a mental note to tell everyone not to tell Ellie anything about what had in the past two weeks, he was about to leave his office when the employees entered his office.


    "Sir, we are ready for the meeting."


    "Let''s just follow Ms Miller''s schedule because that is the best," he said before walking out of the room.


    ¡­.


    Pantry


    "What? What are you smiling at?" Ellie asked Patricia who had been grinning at her for quite sometime now.


    "Uh huh I am just looking at that bright smile on your face and now I cannot wait to see the same bright smile on boss''s face." Patricia beamed.


    Without waiting for her reply, she added, "But I am so glad that you are back."


    "Did you miss me Patricia?" Ellie asked.


    "Ah honey sure I did but you know who missed you the most? Sebastian." Placing her hand on her chest, she added, "He had gone crazy and it was so evident that he was missing you alot. We really got a glimpse of the old version of him again."


    Ellie frowned and added, "What do you mean?"


    "You know how he was before you joined right? Workaholic types?" Patricia asked.


    "Uh huh."


    "He became exactly like that, no wait, this time was even worse than he was."


    "Worse?" Ellie curiously asked.


    Patricia nodded her head and added, "Uh huh even worse. He was working until midnight or would pull out an all nighter. He did not home for several nights and kept working like horse, it was horrible. To top everything up, he wasn''t eating properly too."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 104 - Reason

    Ellie pursed her lips and frowned, "Since when did this start?"


    "Since the day you left, Ahh God, don''t remind me the number of times I asked him to follow the schedule you had arranged for him. You know how stubborn he is right? So he won''t listen to anything that I say." Helplessly shaking her head, Patricia added, "It''s easier to deal with my son than him."


    Just then Sebastian rushed inside the pantry and widened his eyes in shock when he saw Patricia talking to Ellie.


    After telling Noah not to tell Ellie about anything that had happened in her absence, he rushed downstairs to inform Patricia only to find out that she wasn''t there. He tried to call her but it did not go through. So he decided to stay with Ellie and make sure that no one reveals the real truth to her.


    Crossing her arms in the front, Ellie glared at him. She had no idea whether she should lash out at him or blame herself for leaving him alone and making him feel miserable.


    Sensing the tension between the two of them, Patricia awkwardly excused herself.


    "So you followed my schedule? How can you lie to me like that?"


    Sebastian vigorously shook his head and tried to defend himself. "I did follow your schedule but I made a little change here and there."


    "A little? You call that a little? You were working until midnight and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian frowned, "I had no other choice okay? When I was alone I felt lonely and I missed you alot so I tried to divert my mind and work as much as I could." But who would''ve thought that even after working his ass off, he would still end up missing her alot.


    Ellie sighed and helplessly shook her head before resuming making the coffee.


    Poking her arm, he asked, "Are you angry? Will you not make sandwiches for me anymore?" Pausing for a while, he added, "It''s okay if you don''t make sandwiches but at least don''t be angry with me."


    "I am not angry, I am just concerned about you. You need to learn how to take care of yourself and I don''t want you to turn into the same old you again. I want you to lead a healthy life and learn how to live every moment of it. I understand that work is important but what about living your life to the fullest? I go away for two weeks and you completely ignore your schedule and start doing what you feel like this¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he said, "This is why you shouldn''t leave me alone in the fu¡ª" stopping midway, he rephrased his sentence, "I mean you shouldn''t take a long leave in the future."


    Placing the cup down, she added, "I can''t stay here forever right? Maybe one day I have to leave."


    He frowned deeper and snapped, "Why would you leave?" He had no idea why she was suddenly talking about leaving? Didn''t she just come back from a long break?


    Taking a step towards him, she knocked his forehead. "Then give me a reason to stay and check on you forever." Fixing his tie, she added, "I have my own reason to stay but I''ll be needing one from your side too."


    "Reason? What kind of reason?" He had no idea what kind of reason she was talking about. With his low EQ, he failed to understand what Ellie was trying to say.


    When he gave her a blank look, she sighed, gave him his coffee and walked out of the pantry saying, "I already brought lunch for us."


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s office.


    Taking a sip of the coffee, he closed his eyes and sighed on satisfaction. How could the bland black coffee match to Ellie''s special one? No wonder he hated his old favorite black coffee.


    "Good morning Sebastian Stewart," Grinning from ear to ear, Noah strolled towards him.


    "What are you grinning at?" Sebastian asked.


    "It''s such a lovely day isn''t it?" Sitting down right across him, Noah added, "Best day for hugs, right Seb?"


    Taking a sip of his coffee, Sebastian slowly nodded his head. How could the day not be lovely? Ellie was back, they shared their first warm hug and now he was drinking the coffee which Ellie made for him. Could the day be any more lovely?


    "So, how was it?"


    "How was what?"


    Noah rolled his eyes and sighed, "The hug obviously."


    Almost choking on the coffee he was drinking, Sebastian widened his eyes in shock. "Y-You saw us¡ªI mean when¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Noah chuckled, "If you do things without closing the door then anybody can see it. In fact, you were lucky that a gentleman like me saw it so I closed the door and left but imagine what would''ve happened if someone else had seen you both tangled together like that."


    When Sebastian did not say anything, Noah added, "So did you tell her?"


    "Tell her what?"


    "That you like her."


    Sebastian shook his head and said, "No I didn''t but isn''t it evident that I do?"


    "Dude, this isn''t some kind of business deal okay? We are talking about getting into a relationship with a woman and you gotta make her feel loved, you need to tell her how special she is and how much she means to you. Relationship isn''t a guessing game." Without waiting for his reply, Noah added, "So what do you expect from her? Like she will just pounce into your embrace and tell you that she knows you like her? I know all of this is new for you but at least don''t act like a d.i.c.khead. You gotta man up and tell her about your feelings and make her your girlfriend."


    Thinking for quite some time, Sebastian asked, "So I have to tell her?"


    Groaning in frustration , Noah slapped his forehead, "If not you, who will tell her that you like her? Me? Calvin? Owen? Or the guy from the HR department who keeps flirting with her?"


    "What guy?" Sebastian frowned.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 105 - Jealous type

    "Duh, what the hell is wrong with you? You need to be more attentive towards your woman. I am not saying that you should stalk her like a creep but you need to at least make sure to keep away all the mosquitoes that keep buzzing around her." Without waiting for his reply, Noah added, "Do you think that Mel has no admirers in this office? Of course she does but I keep shielding her. I mean, who am I to blame if someone takes away something that belongs to me?"


    He sighed and helplessly shook his head when Sebastian frowned. "I need to work a lot on brushing your boyfriend skills."


    When Sebastian frowned deeper, Noah added, "Just giving you a heads up, the HR guy is in her office right now."


    "What? Why didn''t you tell me?" Sebastian gritted his teeth before dashing out of his office.


    ¡­


    Ellie''s office.


    "I had taken a short leave to spend some time with my parents back in Seattle."


    Morris, the HR guy smiled at her. "I am glad that you are back Ellie."


    Finding his smile very creepy and his behaviour very annoying, Ellie inquired, "What are you doing here? I mean do you need something?"


    "Ahh no, I am here to see you. I mean to make sure that you are okay. I was very worried when I heard that you met with an accident and I hope that you are alright now."


    "I am okay now and it wasn''t a really serious one so it''s alright." Giving a weak smile, Ellie was thinking of a way to shoo him away when Sebastian entered the office.


    "Which department are you from?" Sebastian asked.


    Morris widened his eyes in shock when he saw Sebastian. He had seen and bumped into Ellie a couple of times and wanted to ask her out but he had to postpone the idea because she had taken a leave. So when he heard that she was back, he quickly rushed over to Ellie''s office to talk to her.


    "G-Good morning boss," Morris shuttered.


    "Which department are you from?" Sebastian asked again.


    "HR department sir," he replied.


    Walking towards them, Sebastian placed her hand on her shoulder and pulled her back, making sure that there was a triple arm distance between her and Morris.


    "What are you doing on this floor? Did you forget where your HR department is? Should I call for your department head and ask him to escort you back?"


    Though Sebastian wasn''t shouting or yelling but Morris was already trembling and panicking in fear. He had gathered all his guts and decided to meet Ellie in her office because he had heard that Sebastian never bothers or enters his assistants office. So seeing Sebastian all of a sudden scared him alot.


    "No boss I¡ªI just wanted to ask Ms Miller how she is and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian snapped, "Is the HR department that free or you don''t have anything productive to do."


    "Boss¡ª"


    "Since you are so free and you also happen to have nothing to do in this office, let me ask your department head to transfer you to the Arizona branch." Sebastian declared.


    Morris widened his eyes in shock and was about to say something when Sebastian gestured him to leave.


    Left with no other choice, he quietly walked out of Ellie''s office, cursing himself for acting recklessly.


    "Wow, did you just transfer him to some other branch?" Ellie asked.


    "Hmm, I don''t like employees who slack for no good reason." And of course those who try to flirt with his woman.


    Smiling at him, Ellie asked, "So are you going to transfer me too if I slack, boss?"


    Placing his hand on the desk, he trapped her in between his arms and inched closer. "Boss? I thought you long stopped calling me that."


    His sudden closeness was making her feel giddy. She could feel big fat butterflies dancing in her stomach and her heart skipped several beats when he caressed her cheeks.


    "What are you supposed to call me Ellie?" He asked.


    "Bo¡ª" stopping midway, she chuckled, "I mean Sebastian."


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he smiled in satisfaction. "Good girl."


    Pinching his nose, she chuckled, "You are a very bad boy."


    "Bad? What did I do?"


    "You just transferred an employee without any reason and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he asked, "Who said that I have no reason for doing that?" When Ellie raised her brows, he added, "He was trying to flirt with you and that reason is enough to even fire him."


    "So he got transferred not for slacking but because the almighty boss is jealous," Resisting the urge to pull his cheeks, she added, "I thought you were not the jealous types."


    "And why did you think that I wasn''t the jealous type?" He curiously asked.


    "El why didn''t you¡ª" stopping midway, Melissa chuckled, "Get a room guys."


    Pulling away, Sebastian awkwardly cleared his throat. "I''ll wait for you in my office."


    After Sebastian left, Melissa grinned and slowly made her way towards her best friend.


    "What are you grinning at?" Ellie asked.


    "A little birdie told me that someone hugged someone and then someone hugged that someone back."


    Ignoring her, Ellie tied her hair into a bun. "I don''t have time for this right now because I need to catch up with many things."


    "I heard that you were not coming back anytime soon so what happened?" Without waiting for her reply, Melissa added, "Were you missing Seb?"


    "I was supposed to stay for another two weeks but dad got me the ticket so I flew back today in the morning." Ellie was baffled and couldn''t believe it when her father handed her the air ticket to L.A later that night.


    "Woah, uncle let you come back? I thought he wouldn''t let you stay anywhere near Sebastian in the future. I was genuinely very scared and worried about your relationship." Melissa sighed.


    "There is no relationship between us and¡ª"


    "Who are you trying to lie to, Ellie Miller?"


    ¡­.

 Chapter 106 - Scared

    "What? No one is lying okay?"


    Crossing her arms in the front, Melissa raised her brow, "So are you trying to tell me that you feel nothing for Sebastian? You don''t like him?"


    When Ellie did not say anything, Melissa sighed, "I really don''t understand what is wrong with you, I really miss my best friend El who used to share everything with me. Like I know you don''t wanna share anything with me now because you have Sebastian but can you please at least tell me something?"


    Ellie rolled her eyes and threw a paper ball towards her, "You are such a drama queen Mel."


    Grinning from ear to ear, she excitedly sat down right across Ellie and asked, "So, did my cute little innocent best friend finally find the perfect man for herself?"


    "I don''t know, I mean yes I like Sebastian. He is cute, sweet, freaking handsome and his smile¡ª" sighing in satisfaction, Ellie added, "That smile is worth dying and do you have any idea who attentive he is? How can you not fall for someone like him?"


    Melissa smiled and asked, "But?"


    Slapping her forehead on her desk, Ellie groaned, "I am scared,"


    "Scared because you think he cannot perform in bed? Scared that his tools don''t work? Scared because you think he has a small d.i.c.k?" she asked.


    Throwing her pen at her, Ellie frowned, "Mel, I am serious."


    Sticking her tongue out, Melissa chuckled, "Fine, I was just kidding. Look El, I understand how you are feeling and trust me babe, that is exactly why I kept turning Noah down in the beginning. The huge gap in our background just scared me. I mean I was his assistant and he was the boss so if I had an affair with him, things would become very awkward right? Though I liked him too, I still kept shoving him away. I kept thinking about what others would think and whether our relationship would last or not which was the biggest mistake of my life."


    Ellie sighed and vigorously shook her head, "You know me Mel, I am someone who cares about the future or what others will think. Yes, I was really very worried about having anything with him but that fear is no more there."


    "Then what is your problem? Why are you feeling so hesitant?" Melissa asked.


    "You see, Noah wooed you for so many months and you knew that he liked you so it was easier for you to take the decision right?" When Melissa nodded her head, Ellie added, "But I don''t even know whether Seb really likes me or not. What if I am the only one who is overthinking and this means nothing to him? What if he just takes me as a very good friend? What if¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Melissa snapped, "Seriously? You think Seb doesn''t like you? Okay, either you are blind or I am going crazy and have started seeing things." Without waiting for Ellie''s reply, she added, "That guy takes all the trouble to fly all the way to Seattle to see you and you think he doesn''t like you? You should''ve seen him when you were inside the emergency room El, Sebastian looked terrified and trust me, I have never seen him so terrified and neither did Noah or Ava."


    Pausing for a while, she continued, "Don''t tell me you really think that Seb likes watching Disney movies and playing snake and ladders, he does that only for you and only with you El. I have known him for more than three years now and from all the things I have heard about him and his character, it shocks me seeing him like that. Seb is different when he is with us and a completely new person when it comes to you."


    "So you think he likes me too?" Ellie asked.


    "Of course he does, I am a hundred percent sure." When she smiled, Melissa asked, "So how did you feel when he hugged you?"


    ¡­..


    Lunch time.


    Passing him a box of cookies, Ellie said, "Mom baked these specially for you when I told her that you don''t like the ready made cookies because they are very sweet."


    "She didn''t have to take all the trouble,"


    "Okay, so you want me to tell her that you don''t like it?" She asked.


    Sebastian widened his eyes in shock and vigorously shook his head, "No, I never said that I don''t want them." He then grabbed the box from her hand and kept it aside before concentrating on his sandwiches again.


    Taking a bite, he groaned in satisfaction wondering how she managed to make something so delicious.


    "Why do you like them so much?" She asked.


    "What is there not like about them?" Sebastian could eat them all day long and never get tired of it.


    Taking a sip of her coffee, she said, "Hmm so next time I leave, I''ll teach Patricia how to make one so that you can eat them whenever you want."


    Keeping the sandwich on the plate, he frowned, "This is the second time you are saying this Ellie, where the hell are you planning to go again? Wasn''t two weeks enough? You can''t leave me alone like that all the time, it''s so stressful when you are not around."


    "Like I said before Sebastian, I need a reason to stay and make sandwiches for you forever."


    Sebastian frowned deeper and was about to say something when Ava entered the room along with others.


    "Ahh I smell tasty food," Ava beamed before pouncing at the sandwiches. But before she could come anywhere near it, Sebastian grabbed the plate and shielded it using his hands.


    "Stay away, they are mine," he hissed.


    Ava pouted her lips and complained, " Meanie," before looking at Ellie.


    "There is no point trying that Ava, Sebastian will never let anyone touch it," Hooking his arms around Ava''s neck, Noah added, "Except for Ellie because she is free to touch anything that belongs to Seb."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 107 - Mrs Yogurt

    Ava rolled her eyes and complained, "Oh come on Sebastian, you can at least give me one." Rubbing her stomach, she pouted her lips, "I am so hungry."


    "Go and buy your own sandwich," Sebastian snapped, there was no way he would let anyone even touch his sandwiches.


    Puffing her cheeks, Ava was about to retort when Ellie said, "Seb, give her one."


    He frowned and shook his head. "But these are mine, why would I give away something that is mine?"


    Sitting down beside Ellie, Melissa whispered, "Seems like your big baby needs to be tamed."


    Punching Melissa''s waist, Ellie turned towards him and added, "If you give her one, I''ll make two sandwiches for you later."


    "Three?" When she chuckled and nodded her head, Sebastian started measuring the sandwiches.


    "Hey, you can''t do that," Ava retorted.


    Giving her the smallest piece, he rushed towards his desk away from everyone where he could enjoy his sandwiches at peace.


    "Wow, I have never seen Seb fussing over food like this before," Looking at Ellie, Owen added, "Where is our old bossy Sebastian Stewart El? What did you do to him?"


    "Love changes everything," Hooking his hand around Owens neck, Calvin said, "Haven''t you heard of that particular famous line?"


    "What line?"


    "When one is in love, the air is pink and the sky is purple."


    Looking at Sebastian who was busy eating, Ellie smiled. How can he look so cute even whole eating? She hadn''t realised it yet but now she was very sure that Sebastian was really very special for her. She didn''t care what others thought of him because for her, he was the sweetest and the most cutest of all.


    "Right Ellie?" Calvin asked.


    Coming out of her daze, Ellie asked, "Huh? What did you say?"


    "I said that the air is pink and the sky is purple for you as well right?"


    "I¡ª" Not knowing how to answer the question, she chose to stay shut. ''Is the air and sky really pink and purple for me?'' She asked herself.


    Patting his chest, Noah grinned, "I don''t know about El but the air and sky is a rainbow for me and not just pink or purple." Looking at Melissa, he grinned wider. "I love you babe."


    "I love you too honey," shifting to his lap, Melissa hooked her arms around his neck and gave him a peck on his lips. " I love you so much."


    Looking at Ava, Calvin mouthed ''I love you'' before looking away, pretending like it never happened.


    Trying to suppress her blush and the strong urge to pounce into his, Ava awkwardly cleared her throat and smiled.


    Looking at Ava and Calvin simultaneously, Ellie raised her brows. "Hmm I may sound nosy but is something going on between you and Calvin?"


    Ava vigorously shook her head and denied, "Of course not, what makes you think that there is something going on?"


    Ellie shrugged her shoulders and answered, "Nothing specific, I just think that you both will make an awesome pair."


    "Well, even you and Seb will make a dashing pair."


    "Oh by the way El, this Sunday is our housewarming party so you need to come even if the world comes to an end," Owen said.


    "I thought the party was already over, wasn''t it scheduled to happen like two weeks ago?" Ellie asked.


    Owen chuckled and nodded his head, "Yes but we didn''t want to do it without you so we decided to postpone it and even if we hadn''t," turning towards Sebastian, he added, "Someone would''ve definitely refused to attend the party, right Seb?"


    "Huh? Did you say something?" Sebastian asked.


    Ignoring the sandwich monster, Owen asked Ellie, "So you are coming right?"


    She smiled and nodded her head, " Of course I will."


    ¡­..


    Nelson Mansion.


    Coating her nails with the transparent nailpolish, Charlotte sighed, "Not my type uncle."


    "But why? Don''t you find him attractive?" Albert inquired.


    "Do you think he is attractive?" When he nodded his head, she smiled, "Great, then you should date him."


    Albert frowned and snapped, "What are you saying honey?"


    "Ah is it my fault? I told you that he isn''t my type and yet you are trying to force me to like him, how is that even fair uncle?" She asked.


    "But he is rich and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she retorted, "A man needs to have something more than just money to be Charlotte Adams better half okay? I know that money is important but what about fashion sense?"


    "Fashion sense?"


    "Yes and that is important too."


    Albert sighed and helplessly shook his head, "So now I need to find someone who has money and a good fashion sense too."


    "Uh huh and even if he has a limited knowledge about fashion but make sure that he is a fast learner unlike Mr Yogurt, that man is super dull."


    "Yogurt? Ahh you mean Stewart."


    Shrugging her shoulders, Charlotte said, "Yeah whatever."


    "Alright, we cannot do anything if you don''t like him." Kissing the top of her head, Albert added, "I am going for a business trip for a couple of months starting tomorrow, you''ll be okay right?"


    "Of course, enjoy yourself and call me whenever you have time."


    "Hmm, I''ll give Mrs Yogurt a call and tell her that you don''t like her son." Albert chuckled.


    "Ahh tell her about the special makeup classes that I am willing to offer her for free, that woman needs it so bad."


    ¡­.


    Evening


    Ellie''s apartment.


    Passing him a cup of coffee, Ellie asked, "Did Boji get adopted yet?"


    "I don''t know, did the shelter give you a call?" Sebastian asked.


    She shook her head and asked, "Did they give you a call?"


    "No they didn''t."


    She sighed and pouted her lips. "Then I guess she is adopted." Ellie had told the people at the shelter to give her a call if Boji doesn''t get adopted but since they didn''t get a call from their side, she was assuming that someone already adopted the cute little one.


    Looking at her sad expression, he asked, "I thought you didn''t want to keep her because of the space and attention problem so what happened now?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 108 - Hookups

    Ellie sighed and nodded her head, "I know but now I think I could keep it you know. Maybe I could just leave the lights open when I am at work and then we could play with her together after work. It would be fun but anyway, no point thinking about it since she is already adopted. Never mind, I''ll make pasta for dinner today, is that okay or do you want something else?"


    "Pasta is fine." He would eat anything that she would make for him, even a broccoli salad which he hated the most.


    "Your suitcase, the one you had taken for the trip is still in my room. I washed your clothes along with mine in the morning before going to work so you can go and change if you want to," she suggested.


    "Hmm, I''ll go and change first," he smiled.


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, she awkwardly asked, "You are staying right?"


    Walking towards her, he grabbed her hand and nodded his head. "If you want me to stay, I''ll stay and if you don''t want me to stay, I''ll stay. So the conclusion is, I''ll stay whether you like it or not."


    Ellie chuckled and helplessly shook her head. Why would she not want him to stay? In fact, she wanted him to stay with her forever.


    Brushing away her silly thoughts, she asked, "Will Ava not feel alone? I mean she is staying with you right?"


    "Hmm but Ava will manage on her own unlike you so¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she asked, "What do you mean?"


    "I am more needed here because no one knows when the talented Ellie Miller will somehow manage to fall down and break her nose so¡ª" tapping her nose, he added, "I need to be around when that will happen so that I can save you."


    Pinching his waist, she faked a smile. "Haha so funny."


    He hissed in pain and frowned, "Hey, that was a bad pinch."


    Pinching him once again, she asked, "Ahh really?"


    "You¡ª" before he could grab her hand, she squealed and ran away from him.


    Taking off his coat, he folded his sleeves and said, "You are so dead," before chasing her.


    Sticking her tongue out at him, she chuckled, "You think your old bones can catch me?"


    Sebastian stopped midway and frowned deeper, "Did you just call me old?"


    "Maybe," she chuckled.


    Rushing towards her, he managed to grab the hem of her t-shirt and pulled her towards himself.


    Ellie squealed and started laughing out loud when he started tickling her.


    "Uh huh who is old now? Tell me Ellie, who is old?"


    "No¡­...sorry¡­..haha please stop," she shouted before pushing him away but Sebastian ended up tripping on the carpet and falling on the couch and as he was holding the hem of her t-shirt, Ellie ended up falling on top of him.


    Wrapping his around her waist to make sure that she doesn''t end up falling, he started laughing.


    Slapping his chest, Ellie pouted her lips, "This is cheating."


    "You are such a baby¡ª" squishing her bottom lips, he chuckled, "A cute little baby."


    Caressing her cheek, he added, "I missed you alot El, I really did."


    Placing her head on his chest, she smiled, "I missed you too."


    Kissing the top of her head, he sighed and hugged her tighter. Now when Ellie was back in his life, everything was peaceful again. This short separation made him realize that all the changes in his life were because of her and with her gone, he would automatically turn into the same boring him from the past which was no more fun.


    There was a time when he used to love living that way but now when he was slowly getting used to living his life in Ellie''s style and with her, he realized how boring he was in the past.


    It was time for Sebastian Stewart to experience how it feels when the air is pink and the sky is purple.


    "Seb,"


    "Hmm,"


    Snuggling closer, she said, "Your phone is ringing."


    "Forget it," he was enjoying the most precious and priceless moment of his life with her and he didn''t want anyone to interrupt them. Everything else could wait but could he wait for this moment to happen again, a big no.


    Resting her chin on his chest, she said, "You should receive the call and I need to cook dinner for us."


    "You will let me hug you again right?" He asked.


    Pulling his cheeks, she chuckled and nodded her head. He could hug her whenever he wanted, who was she to say no to his warm hugs.


    Getting off him, she made her way towards the kitchen.


    Sebastian sighed and started looking for his phone which was constantly ringing. But he immediately tossed it aside when he saw it who was. He was in a very good mood to deal with his mother. Ellie was back after two whole weeks and he wanted to keep the atmosphere and vibe around them calm and fluffy.


    ¡­..


    Next day.


    Park.


    "Wait a second, let me have a closer look,"


    Ellie chuckled and asked, "What?"


    "Hmm, I smell love," Markus grinned.


    Slumping on the bench, she sighed, "He is so sweet, gentle, kind, handsome and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Markus chuckled, "Alright, I was just teasing you but it seems like you are already head over heels for him."


    "He flew all the way to Seattle just because he missed me and we also spent the entire night together watching movies but this time, we shared the same blanket and¡ª"


    "In which century are you living in, little woman? It''s the twenty-first century for Gods sake so can you at least initiate a kiss? Well, I heard that youngsters have s.e.x in the first date these days. Hmmm what do you people call that?" Thinking for a while, he added, "Hookups, youngsters have so many hookups these days and there you are blushing after sharing a blanket."


    Without waiting for her reply, he added, "I know you aren''t a hookup kind of a girl but a kiss won''t harm right?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 109 - Arrogant

    "I¡ªActually we aren''t in that stage yet. I mean, he hasn''t even told me how he feels about me though I feel like he likes me too."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Markus sighed, "Such slow people but since you wanna take things slow, this old man can do nothing. But I feel like a kiss to seal the deal is important."


    Glancing at her watch, she widened her eyes in shock, "It''s so late, I gotta go now."


    "Hey, can you get a scone from the bakery behind Macy''s?" He asked.


    Placing her hand on her waist, she asked, "Are you diabetic?"


    "No I am not, I am as healthy as a horse." Showing her his biceps, he added, "How can a unhealthy man have these?"


    "Alright then, I''ll get it for you." She chuckled.


    "Today?"


    "You want it today?" Thinking for a while, she said, "Alright, I''ll get it during my lunch time."


    "I will be right here," he smiled.


    Giving him a goodbye hug, Ellie smiled, "See you during lunch, bye."


    ¡­.


    Afternoon


    Stewart International Group


    Glancing at the watch, Ellie frowned. It was almost lunch time but Sebastian was missing since morning. He wasn''t receiving her calls and no one knew where he was.


    "Hey El we are going out for lunch today, you are coming right?" Melissa asked.


    "Ah no, actually I need to go somewhere so¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Melissa sighed, "Sebastian isn''t a kid El so you don''t have to worry about him so much. May be he got stuck somewhere like an important meeting, traffic."


    "He can at least give me a call right? Anyway¡ª" grabbing her bag, Ellie said, "I need to go somewhere too so I''ll pass the lunch."


    "Alright go safe and do you want me to get take outs for you?"


    "That would be nice Mel and if Sebastian arrives while I am away, tell him to call me." Without waiting for her reply, Ellie rushed out of the office.


    ¡­.


    Yummy Bakery


    "What would you like to have?"


    "I want two scones please and one chocolate pastry," Ellie said.


    "Take out?"


    "Yes."


    "Two scones for takeout please," Taking out his wallet, a man added, "Add in a chocolate pastry to that."


    "I am sorry sir but we are out of scones, we just sold our last two pieces," the bakery worker explained.


    Looking at the scones which were still lying on the white plate, the man asked, "What are those then?"


    "I just bought them so they are mine," Ellie explained.


    "Did you pay for them yet?" He asked.


    "No but I am about to," Waving her credit card at him, she added, "In fact, I would''ve already paid of you hadn''t interrupted us by breaking the queue."


    Ignoring her, the man looked at the bakery worker. "Since she hasn''t paid for it yet, I would like to buy it."


    Raising her brows, Ellie snorted, "Excuse me?"


    "I am sorry sir but they are already sold."


    Taking out his credit card, he said, "Just give me the scrone."


    Crossing her arms in the front, Ellie snapped, "Either you did not hear what she is saying or you are f.u.c.k.i.n.g deaf." She hated when people acted like a d.i.c.khead in public places.


    "Listen miss, I need them the scones okay? It''s important."


    Ignoring him, she gave the worker her credit card. "Make it fast please."


    "Hey, didn''t you hear what I said? It''s important and I need them." The man snapped.


    "If it''s important, make sure to come back a little early tomorrow so that you don''t have to try snatching something that is already bought buy someone esle." She retorted before taking her take outs and walking out of the cafe.


    "I''ll pay you double the price for that scone," he shouted.


    Glaring at him, Ellie gritted her teeth before dashing out of the bakery.


    ¡­..


    Park.


    "I hate such people. I mean I would''ve given him at least one of the scones if he had been polite but he was arrogant since the very beginning." Ellie ranted.


    "Uh-huh, why didn''t you break his nose then?" Markus asked while opening the box.


    "I wasn''t in a mood to deal with idiots and besides I don''t wanna waste my brain cells on arrogant people like that man. He was even showing off his money." Letting out a mocking chuckle, she added, "He is probably a rich spoilt brat."


    "Hmm isn''t he also rich?"


    "Who? Sebastian?" When Markus nodded his head, she said, "But he is very simple, sweet and kind. He isn''t arrogant and doesn''t show off."


    Taking a bite of the scone, he sighed in satisfaction, "If you ever wanna know what heaven tastes like, try this thing."


    "Seems like you like scones are your favourite," she smiled.


    "Not all, this scone is special." Taking another bite, he asked, "What happened? You look a bit upset."


    "Ahh it''s nothing, I should go now." Giving him a brief hug, Ellie said, "I''ll see you tomorrow."


    "Alright, go safe and thank you for the scone."


    ¡­.


    As soon as Ellie stepped out of the park, her phone started ringing and when she saw who it was, she breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Where are you Sebastian? I am trying to call you since morning but either the call doesn''t go through or you don''t receive my call. Do you have any idea how worried I am?" She was feeling frustrated and uneasy after not seeing him for the entire morning and afternoon.


    "I am so sorry, the network is very bad here but I am fine so stop worrying okay?"


    "Where are you?" She asked.


    Hessitating for a while, he answered, "I am a bit busy but I''ll pick you up from office in the evening so wait for me."


    "Evening? Did you eat anything?"


    "Hmm not yet but I''ll surely grab something. Okay I need to go now, don''t forget to have your lunch. I''ll see you soon."


    "Alright, drive safe."


    After hanging up the call, Ellie sighed and started walking towards the office.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 110 - Manipulative

    Stewart International Group


    "El, aren''t you going home?" Patricia asked.


    Glancing at the watch, Ellie sighed, "I''ll leave after sometime."


    "Are you waiting for Sebastian?" Patricia asked before sitting down beside her.


    "He said that he would pick me up after work but I don''t think so he will come." It had already been waiting for him more than an hour now but there was still no sign of him which made her wonder if he was going to come or not.


    "Did you call him?"


    Ellie sighed and nodded her head, "I did but his number is out of coverage."


    "Oh so maybe he is very busy doing something important because he never misses work you know. I mean you know Sebastian more than anyone does, he is a very responsible kind of a guy so if he is missing work then he is surely busy doing something important."


    Pausing for a while, Patricia added, "You know El, I have been working here for so many years and I have seen Sebastian and Noah take this company to a whole new level. Though Sebastian is the most serious and hardworking one, Noah is also very serious when it comes to work. Few years back, the work pressure was double of what it is now. Noah would occasionally take breaks and have fun but Sebastian, he never did that."


    "He is a workaholic," she sighed.


    "Not only that, people say that he is a workaholic but they don''t understand what forced him to become one."


    "What do you mean?"


    Hesitating for a while, Patricia pursed her lips. "I don''t know a better way to describe that woman, Rebecca Stewart is a bitch and so is Arthur Stewart."


    "Sebastian''s parents?" Ellie asked.


    "Uh-huh, I get a head rush when I think about them. You have no idea about the amount of pressure they have showered their kids with, especially Sebastian. You know I thought that Sebastian would finally lead a happy life after moving out of his parents place but Rebecca Stewart didn''t stop. She would constantly come over here and force him to go on blinds dates. In short, she wanted to force him to marry their business partner''s daughter. She thinks that will help in expanding the business."


    Grabbing Ellie''s hand, she added, "I am not telling you this to scare you or anything El, I am very happy for you and Sebastian. In fact, the changes that you''ve brought in his life are remarkable and something that we have been trying to do for so many years but couldn''t. I am telling you this so that you don''t end up getting deceived by that woman."


    Pausing for a while, Patricia continued, "I can see that you and Sebastian going a long way with this. It''s like when I see you both, it feels so right and lovely. It really feels so great and you both look so cute together. And you shouldn''t let anyone ruin this wonderful relationship especially Rebecca, no matter what. Always remember that Rebecca is a very manipulative woman and one can never predict what is going on inside that thick head of hers. I am just giving you a heads up so that you can deal with the situation accordingly when the right time comes. Though Sebastian will be with you no matter what, I thought that I should at least let you know."


    Smiling at her, Ellie said, "Thank you so much Pat, now I know why Sebastian treasures you so much."


    "Ah he does? Hmm so why don''t you ask him to give me a bonus this month?"


    "Well, I''ll be needing one too." Ellie chuckled.


    "Alright I''ll take my leave now, I need to pick up my son from his guitar class today. You are leaving too or¡ª"


    "I''ll wait for some time, drive safe."


    After Rebecca left, Ellie tried calling Sebastian once again. When the call did not go through, she tossed her phone aside and decided to complete her pending work until he arrives.


    ??.


    Three hours later


    Outside Stewart International Group.


    Getting down from his car, Sebastian rushed towards the building. He was busy doing something and it took more time than he had expected.


    When the security guard saw Sebastian, he quickly got up and greeted him. "Sir¡ª"


    Cutting him off, he asked, "Ellie, did she leave?"


    "Ms Miller left ten minutes ago."


    "Where did she go? I mean did she take a cab?" When the guard nodded his head, Sebastian rushed towards his car.


    ¡­.


    Ellie''s place.


    Tossing her bag aside, Ellie grumpily sat down on the couch with her arms crossed in the front. She waited for four hours for Sebastian in her office but he never arrived.


    She was feeling bad, angry, frustrated, worried and sad for herself. She was alresdy very upset because she hadn''t seen him since morning and now she was feeling even more awful after he stood her up.


    Making up her mind not to talk or think about him, she grabbed a packet of ch.i.p.s which was lying on the table and was about to open it when the doorbell rang.


    When she opened the door, Sebastian was standing right in front of her. He was wearing a all white shirt with his sleeves neatly folded upto his elbow, paired with a pair of dark grey trousers.


    "El¡ª"


    Ignoring him, she stormed towards the couch and grumpily sat down right in center.


    Sebastian gulped in nervousness and quickly followed her. He knew that she was super mad with him and he also knew that he deserved it.


    "El I can explain¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "What do you wanna explain? I waited for you for four hours Sebastian. If you had no intention of coming then why did you ask me to wait? I feel like an idiot."


    Squatting down right in front of her, he tried to explain the whole thing, making sure not to reveal the surprise that he had planned for her.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 111 - Fake plants

    "I swear I wanted to come but got stuck somewhere and by the time I arrived, you were already gone¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Ellie snapped harder, "I waited for four hours and you are saying that it is my fault that I decided not to wait for you anymore?"


    Sebastian widened his eyes in shock and asked, "When did I say that it''s my fault?" Placing his hand on hers, he added, "I know it''s my fault but believe me El, I would never do this purposely."


    Slapping his hand away, and crossed her hand in the front. "I am mad at you."


    "What can I do so that you are not mad at me anymore?"


    "I dont know."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he got up, picked up her apartment keys from the table and kept it inside his pocket.


    "What are you¡ªahhh," she squealed in surprise when he suddenly scooped her into his arms.


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and smacked his right shoulder. "What are you doing?"


    Walking towards the door, he said, "Didn''t you say that you are mad at me? So all I am doing is trying to make you not mad at me."


    "If you are taking me out to eat or something then food is not gonna help."


    Without saying anything, he stepped out of the apartment and asked her to close the door before walking towards the elevator.


    ¡­.


    Shopping mall.


    "Please, just one more."


    Calvin frowned and shook his head, "You have already bought more than you should, have pity on Seb''s credit card honey."


    "Oh come on Sebastian is rich, his cards were rusting inside his wallet and I am trying to bring them back to life." Dragging him to the next store, Ava added, "I do this once in a while and it''s fun."


    "You stole his card, it''s called stealing not having fun."


    "So? It''s not like he is going to find out or something," She chuckled.


    Giving his girlfriend a weird look, he sighed, "You do know that Seb is getting a mail or a sms everytime you are swiping his card to buy something right?"


    Stopping midway, Ava frowned, "What? Since when did they start doing that?"


    "It has always been like that Ava," when she gave him a weird look, he frowned, "Now don''t tell me you didn''t know about it."


    "I don''t get notification when I use my card."


    "Did you update your number in your bank after getting a new number?"


    "No."


    Calvin sighed and helplessly shook his head. "Well, now you know why you aren''t getting any notifications."


    Looking at the credit card which she had sneakily borrowed from Sebastian without telling him, Ava pouted her lips. "Alright then, I think I shouldn''t buy anything else."


    Grabbing her hand, he said, "Let''s buy whatever you need and this time we will use my card okay?"


    "No, I don''t want to use your money."


    "Why not?"


    "Because¡ª"


    "Ms Stewart?"


    Looking at the man who just called her out, Ava rolled her eyes while Calvin raised his brows.


    Walking towards her, Nathane flashed a smile. "I never expected that I''ll bump into you here."


    "And I never expected to bump into you ever."


    Throwing his head backwards, he chuckled, "I see that you haven''t changed a bit." Without waiting for her reply, he added, "The way you have been ignoring my messages, I thought I would never see you again but since we have already met, let me pass on your mother''s message which I assume you did not receive or chose to ignore."


    It was true that Ava had been ignoring her mother and the messages that Nathane had been bombarding her inbox for quite some time.


    When Ava did not say anything, he chuckled, "I''ll see you on Sunday then Ms Stewart."


    Taking a step towards her, he briefly glanced at Calvin and smirked, "We are destined to be together whether you like it or not. No matter how hard you try, you''ll have to accept the fact we are gonna end up together."


    Letting go off her wrist, Calvin gritted his teeth and was about to throw a punch on Nathane''s face but Ava wrapped her arms around his to stop him.


    "See you soon," Nathane smirked before walking away.


    After Nathane left, Calvin glared at Ava. "What the f.u.c.k was that?" Without waiting for her reply, he added, "You are going on a date with him?"


    "I¡ª"


    "Did you meet him before and has he been sending you messages all the time?" He snapped.


    "I met him once before mom and dad left but I swear it was only that one time."


    "What about the messages and the date?"


    "Mom gave him my number and she wants me to go out with him this Sunday," Ava replied.


    Smiling at her, he said, "Well then I hope that my girlfriend enjoys her date with some other man. Do you want me to make reservations for you? I guess I can spare a table for you and your date in one of my restaurants."


    "Cal¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he added, "Let''s go, I''ll drop you home." Without waiting for her reply, he started walking out of the mall towards the parking lot.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s place


    Getting down from the car, Ellie asked, "Where are we?"


    "My place," Sebastian said before guiding her towards the elevator.


    "Why did you bring me here?" She had never been to his apartment so she was very excited to see how it looks like but she chose to contain her excitement because she was mad at him too. Reminding herself not to lose her composure and give in so easily, she added, "Whatever it is, make it fast."


    "Why? Do you have something to do?"


    "Yes."


    "Oh, what?" He asked.


    "I¡ªI need to water my plants."


    Wrapping his arm on her shoulder, he chuckled, "Alright, you can leave whenever you want and then water your fake plants to your heart content."


    After they stepped into the elevator, he took out a card from his pocket and swiped it before entering a code. After a few seconds, the elevator door opened inside his penthouse.


    As soon as they stepped out of the elevator, a squishy and furry little thing came running towards them.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 112 - Couples

    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and grabbed Sebastian''s arm in excitement. "Is that¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he smiled and nodded his head, "It''s Boji."


    Squealing and jumping in excitement, she quickly squatted down and embraced Boji who was already snuggling against her leg. "Oh God, I missed you so much."


    Boji who was as excited as Ellie was, started barking and licking her all over her face.


    Ellie chuckled and started kissing him too. "Did you miss me too? Oh yes you did."


    Looking at her smile and how happy she looked, Sebastian felt very satisfied and peace at heart but he also didn''t like how Boji had managed to take away all her attention. He suddenly started feeling very left out and sour.


    Shrugging off the weird feeling, he placed his hand on her back. "Come let''s sit down."


    Still embracing Boji, she made her way towards the couch along with Sebastian.


    Placing her down, Ellie curiously asked, "How did you find her? I thought she was alresdy adopted." Yesterday when she called the shelter ti inquire about Boji, they told her she was already adopted by a very kind family. She was a bit upset after hearing the news but she was also happy for Boji.


    "Yes she was already adopted but I managed to find the family and make a deal with them so I brought her back." Scratching the top of Boji''s head, he smiled, "It wasn''t easy to get her but I tried my best."


    "What kind of deal?" She asked.


    "Ahh nothing much, I bought a similar puppy, gifted it to that family and also requested them to give her back to us."


    What he did not tell her is that he travelled for four hours by road to get Boji because the family who adopted her lived in the countryside. It took him hours to convince them and explain how important Boji is for them. After finally convincing the family, he came back to city, bought another puppy and gifted it to the family. He then took her to the vet for a thorough checkup before bringing her to his apartment.


    "So you were busy looking for her all day?" When he nodded his head, she asked, "Why did you take so much trouble?"


    "Because you wanted to keep her close to you right? What? Don''t tell me that you changed your mind."


    Pouncing into his embrace, she hooked her arms around his neck, she beamed, "Thank you so much Seb, I¡ª" burying her head on his neck, she started crying. She was so happy and overwhelmed after finding out the real reason behind him missing all day. He took all the trouble to get Boji back only because she had briefly mentioned her in their conversation last night. This loving gesture of his made her feel very special and love. It warmed her heart and inclined her to fall for him even more.


    Pulling away, he widened his eyes in shock and panicked. "Hey, why are you crying?"


    Wiping her tears with the back of her hands, she shook her head, "I am very happy."


    Wiping her tears away, he chuckled, "Then laugh, why are you crying?" Tapping the tip of her nose, he smiled, "Silly."


    Just then Boji decided to snuggle in between his new parents lap.


    When Sebastian started petting her, Ellie asked, "I thought you were scared of them."


    "We mutually decided something during our short trip so we are okay, right Boji?" Scratching the top of her head, he added, "We need to go shopping for her tomorrow. Though I bought a few things but I really don''t like them." He wanted to get the best of best things for Boji. She was the first puppy that he was going to pet together with Ellie. The thought of having a pup with her itself made him feel very giddy and he didn''t want anything to go wrong.


    "Oh great, I also need to make some space in my apartment and set up everything for her."


    "Your apartment?" He frowned.


    "Uh-huh, isn''t she going to stay there?" She asked.


    Keeping quiet for quite sometime, he asked, "Hmm remember how you said that your apartment is small and Boji will feel a bit left out?" When she nodded her head, he added, "I think you are right, your apartment is way to small for her. She needs a bigger space you know like here. I mean my place is big, it''s very airy and the best place for her to grow up."


    "So you want her to stay here?"


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, he hesitantly said, "S¡ªSo I was thinking if Boji could stay here in this apartment and we both can see her whenever we want. I mean like I invade your place all the time, you should start invading mine too. You can come here after work and you can spend time with her, pet her and I''ll make dinner for us. T¡ªthere are many rooms here you know so you can just take anyone you like and stay over too."


    Placing her hand on his shoulder, she smiled, "Are you proposing me to pet a puppy together?" When he nodded his head, she added, "Do you know who get and pet puppies and kittens together?"


    When he shook his head, she answered, "Couples."


    Patting his chest, Sebastian started coughing vigorously. His entire face turned red and his body turned stiff. His heart was jumping in a very weird kind of happiness and nervousness. The mix feeling in his heart woke up the butterflies in his stomach and they started break dancing again.


    Patting his back, Ellie pursed her lips to stop herself from laughing out loud. He looked so cute when he blushed and freaked out at the same time.


    "There there, how did you choke like that? Anyway though we aren''t a couple, I''ll still accept your proposal and adopt Boji with you." Picking her up in her arms, she rubbed her cheek on Boji''s face. "We are gonna be Boji''s new mom and dad."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 113 - Squeezing

    "You are not mad anymore right?" Sebastian asked, though he had a feeling that she wasn''t angry anymore, he still wanted to confirm. He could stand anything but not Ellie not talking with him or being mad at him. He always panicked and his heart felt uneasy when she stopped talking him or ignored him.


    "I am not mad anymore, all thanks to Boji. She saved you from my dangerous, heart wrenching wrath Mr Stewart." When Sebastian chuckled, she frowned, "Now what is so funny? What is so damn funny?"


    Helplessly shaking his head, he explained, "No it''s nothing actually, I just can''t stop imagining how cute and adorable you would look when you are jumping and grumbling in anger. It''s just a very cute and funny image to think of."


    Pinching his waist, she pouted her lips, "Uh¡ªhuh you think it''s funny?" Pinching his waist again, she chuckled, "Do you think that it''s still funny?"


    Grabbing her wrist, he pinned her down and smiled, "Do you think it''s funny now?"


    Ellie slowly shook her head and said, "No," How could she even swallow her saliva when all she could see was his lips which were just inches away from hers let alone laughing?


    Letting go of her hands, he caressed her cheeks and took a deep breath, he loved how soft and rosy her cheeks were. He could touch and squeeze them all day and never ever get enough of it.


    Ellie''s heart was ramming against her chest and his closeness, warmth and scent was making her stomach churn. All she wanted to do was to hug him tightly and maybe cuddle for a bit, was that too much to ask?


    Brushing his nose against hers, he said, "I am sorry I couldn''t pick you up but I promise this won''t happen again."


    "You mean you will stop giving me surprises?" She asked.


    "Of course not, I mean I will never keep you waiting in the future."


    "Aren''t you doing the same thing now?" She mumbled.


    "Did you say something?"


    Smiling at him, she shook her head. How could she say that loud? She wanted to know whether he feels for her the same way she does but she was tired of giving him hints so she decided to stop the hunting thing and let him take all the time he wants.


    "Seb,"


    "Hmm?"


    "I think we are squeezing Boji."


    He widened his eyes in shock, quickly got off her and started looking for their new furry child. H3 breathed a sigh of relief when he saw her slumped up in the corner of the couch.


    Picking up Boji in her arms, she asked, " I was about to ask you this but I forgot, what happened to that driver?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Sebastian scratched his forehead and answered, "Umm the driver was drunk."


    "Ahh no wonder he hit the car on the electric pole but anyway, we need to be careful when we are walking." Pausing for a while, she added, "You know what? We shouldn''t walk in crowded places. Better to be safe than sorry."


    "We will do as you say."


    Taking off her coat, Ellie said, "I''ll make dinner for us."


    "Oh no, you sit here with Boji and I''ll make dinner for us."


    She chuckled and raised her brows, "I never knew that Mr Stewart knows how to cook."


    "Not as great as you but it''s edible."


    "Okay, we are waiting for dinner." Waving Boji''s cute little paw at him, she chuckled, "She is saying bye to dada."


    Sebastian smiled and patted her head before walking towards the kitchen. He didn''t mind being anybody''s dada as long as Ellie was the momma.


    ¡­.


    Hawick Mansion


    With his arms crossed in the back, Markus entered his mansion along with his long time assistant/helper/advisor, Kiko.


    "Kiko, do you think that Ellie would''ve been perfect for Brandon if she didn''t have a partner already?" Markus asked.


    Kiko nodded his head and readily agreed, "Of course sir, Ms Miller is a really nice woman and she would''ve looked perfect with Brandon."


    "Uh-huh such a shame that our Brandon doesn''t stand a chance in front of Sebastian Stewart. I shouldn''t let down my grandson but that Stewart guy suits El very well. I mean Brandon is okay but I think Sebastian is more handsome than him."


    "Who is more handsome than me?" Brandon Hawick inquired.


    Kiko widened his eyes in shock and tried to cover up for Markus but the latter was as blunt as always.


    "We were talking about Sebastian being more handsome than you."


    "Grandpa, how can you say that?" Brandon retorted.


    Raising his brows at him, Markus asked, "Would you deny that?"


    Rolling his eyes, Brandon frowned, "Fine, so what if he has a jawline more defined than mine and his eyes are more beautiful than mine but girls like me more and Sebastian is a gay."


    "Not anymore son, the magazines and articles claiming that he is a gay have been declared null and void."


    "By whom?" Brandon asked.


    "By me," Markus smiled before patting his grandson''s shoulder. "So you better calling him that if you don''t want to get strangled to death by our little angry ball."


    Kiko chuckled and added, "Oh she would kill him."


    Looking at the two men who were laughing, Brandon wondered what they were talking about. Shrugging it off, he sighed, "Anyway, I had gone to the bakery to get your favorite scone but someone took a last piece and I was late, I promise I will¡ª"


    "Ah don''t worry, I already ate the scone today."


    "Oh really? Who got it for you? Uncle Kiko?" He asked.


    "No not Kiko but a friend of mine got it for me."


    "A friend? I thought you had only one friend, uncle Kiko."


    "It''s his new friend from the park," Kiko answered.


    Brandon smiled and said, "Oh that is nice, you should bring your friend home grandpa."


    Patting his cheeks, Markus shook his head, "You don''t stand a chance."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 114 - N.a.k.e.d

    Shopping Mall


    Parking lot


    "Will you at least listen to me? Please Calvin, let me at least explain myself." Ava called him out again.


    Shoving the bags in the back seat, he snapped, "You know what, go on a date with that weird looking guy."


    "What?" She frowned.


    "Uh-huh you are free to go on a date with that man because I will be going on a date too." Taking out his phone, he opened his contact only to realise that he had already deleted all unnecessary numbers from his contact list when he started dating Ava. Not wanting to embarrass himself, he called Owen pretending he was some girl he used to fling with.


    "Yo dude what''s up? And how is shopping going on? Fun?" Owen asked.


    "Hey Owis, I am Calvin, we had met at the club and you had given me your number, remember?" Calvin asked.


    "Dude, are you drunk? Who the hell is Owis? Don''t tell me you are cheating on Ava because if you are, I am going to kick your ass." Owen threatened.


    "Ah of course you remember me, anyway I wanted to ask you if you are free this Sunday so¡ª" he stopped midway and widened his eyes in shock when Ava lowered her head and started sobbing.


    Rushing towards her, he lifted her chin and panicked. "Babe why are you crying?" But when she started sobbing even harder, he panicked even more and started wiping his tears. "Ava what happened?"


    "You are going on a date with some other woman, you don''t love me anymore," She said in between her sobs.


    "What? Of course I love you this¡ª" showing her his phone, he added, "Look this is Owen."


    Turning the speaker on, he snapped, "Owen, tell her that it''s you."


    "Yeah it''s me Ava and not Owes."


    Without waiting for her reply, Calvin added, "I''ll switch to video call."


    Stopping him, Ava wiped her tears away and said, "There is no need for that, I don''t want Owen to see me like this."


    "Like this? What? Are you both n.a.k.e.d? Did you both fight while having s.e.x?" Owen curiously asked.


    "Shut up Owen," Calvin snapped before hanging up the call.


    Shoving his phone inside his pocket, he started looking for his handkerchief but realised that he wasn''t carrying one.


    Taking off his coat, he said, "Here, you can use this to wipe your tears."


    "Who gives his girlfriend a coat to wipe her tears you idiot?"


    "I forgot to carry a handkerchief today so you can use this because it''s clean." Pulling her into his embrace, he sighed, "You can go on that stupid date if you¡ª"


    Slapping his chest, she snapped, "Why the hell would I go on a date with him?"


    "But your mom¡ª"


    "No Cal, I wasn''t even thinking about going on a date or anywhere with him. I was planning to ask Sebastian for help and come up with a reason so that he could tell mom about it." Ava explained.


    Hugging her tighter, Calvin breathed a sigh of relief, "Oh thank God."


    "Take me home now," she said.


    "Oh right, Sebastian must be already home by now."


    Shaking her head, she added, "Take me to your place, Sebastian rarely comes home these days and I feel very lonely all by myself."


    Kissing the top of her head, he smiled, "Let''s go home then."


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s place.


    Sebastian was busy sauteeing the vegetables, he was busy checking on the noodles when Ellie approached him with his phone in her hand.


    "Seb, your mom is calling you." Taking the spatula from his hand, she added, "I''ll take care of this, you should answer the call first."


    Wiping his hands on his apron, he took his phone and walked out of the kitchen.


    Ellie pursed her lips and tried not to think about what Patricia had told her about Sebastian''s mother.


    From what Melissa and Noah had told her about his mom already, she had a rough idea about how his mother was and she always felt very uneasy when she thought about it.


    Though Patricia was right that Sebastian would never leave her alone and would always support her, she still couldn''t stop thinking about all the consequences that could happen in the future.


    Brushing all the silly thoughts away, she sighed and resumed what Sebastian was doing.


    ¡­..


    Living room.


    As soon as Sebastian received the call, Rebecca yelled at him.


    "What did you tell Charlotte that she refused a second date with you?" Without waiting for his reply, she added, "If you keep repelling all capable women like this, how am I supposed to find a perfect woman for our family?"


    Ignoring her question, he asked, "Why did you call?"


    "Mr Nelson is going on a business trip for a few months so I told him that you will take care of Charlotte in his absence."


    Sebastian frowned and snapped, "Why do I have to take care of anyone? She is big enough to take care of yourself."


    "I already told him that you will,"


    "Then that is your problem and not mine," he retorted.


    Keeping quiet for quite sometime, Rebecca sighed, "What is wrong with you son? You have stopped listening to me these days. Do not love your mother anymore?"


    Massaging his forehead, he explained, "I have many important meetings lined up so it''s impossible for me to run after anyone right now so I really can''t do this. And mom, please stop looking or planning dates for me, I think it''s time for you to stop thinking about me and take care of your health."


    "Ask Ava to accompany Charlotte and you both must take good care of her. She can''t stay alone in her place so you will also have to invite her over to your place. Since Ava is also staying with you, it shouldn''t be a problem." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "I have already taken Mr Nelson''s permission for this."


    "But¡ª"


    "Do as you are told Sebastian Stewart and don''t force me to fly back and remind you that I am your mother."


    ...

 Chapter 115 - Path of lies and flowers

    Before Sebastian could say anything, Rebcca hung up the call. He wanted to call her back and tell her that he would never do what she wanted him to and nothing could ever happen with Charlotte or any other women but he didn''t.


    He didn''t want his mother to come back and ruin his peaceful life with Ellie. Just like Ava, he was also liking the calm and peaceful environment he was living in. Though nothing could separate him from Ellie but he still wanted to avoid all the trouble as long as he could.


    Sebastian came out of his daze when Boji started snuggling against his leg. Picking her up in his arms, he made his way towards the kitchen.


    ¡­...


    Standing by the kitchen door along with Boji, his lips curled upwards when he saw Ellie. Life was so perfect and amazing right now and he didn''t want anyone or anything to take this away from him.


    When Ellie saw him, she smiled at him and inquired, "Did you finish talking?" When he nodded his head, she added, "It''s almost ready."


    Keeping Boji on the floor, he entered the kitchen and asked Ellie to wait outside before washing his hands.


    "It''s alright, I''ll help you with the plating."


    When she kept fiddling with the spatula, he raised his brows and asked, "What happened?"


    "Huh?"


    Crossing his arms in the front, he added, "I know you want to ask something."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she asked, "I heard that your mom¡ªshe, your¡ª"


    Sensing her hesitation, he flicked her forehead. "When did you start hesitating while talking to me?"


    "Umm I heard that your mom plans out many dates for you and keeps looking for a perfect woman for you, is that true?" When Sebastian nodded his head, she added, "And I also heard that you go for those blind dates, is that true too?"


    "Who told you this?" He frowned.


    She raised her brows and asked, "Last question, did you go for any date recently? I mean after I joined the company as your assistant, did you on any dates?"


    Looking at her eyes and her expressions, Sebastian knew that he was dead no matter whether he agreed or denied. He did go on a date with Charlotte when Ellie was in Seattle but does that count?


    During the whole day date, he was thinking about her and Charlotte kept talking about fashion so could that be considered as a date?


    When he did not say anything, she kept the spatula down and smiled at him. "Well, I''ll take your silence as a big yes." Without waiting for his reply, she started walking out of the kitchen all angry and upset.


    Though she knew that they weren''t bound to each other and she shouldn''t be expecting much from him but how could she not be sad or angry after finding out that the man she loved was still going on blind dates with other women?


    If he really had feelings for her like she had for him, why on earth would he even think about dating other women? And if he really didn''t care, why would he fly all the way to Seattle just to tell her that he was missing her?


    After analyzing everything, Ellie was still very mad and pissed at him.


    Grabbing her hand, Sebastian panicked, "Hey, how can you just walk out after assuming my answer?" When she did not say anything, he asked, "What if I say that I didn''t go on any dates while you were away?"


    "You didn''t?" When he shook his head, she smiled and pounced into his embrace. "I knew that you wouldn''t do that, I am sorry for reacting that way."


    Hugging her back, he gulped in nervousness. "It''s alright, I understand why you thought that way."


    Pulling away, she smiled, "We should eat, hmm I''ll go and set the table for us."


    After she left, he cursed himself for acting like a coward. Though he knew he would end up being dead both ways, he didn''t want to piss her off two consecutive times on the same day. So he chose the path of flowers and lies which he knew wouldn''t last long, he knew that thorns would start poking him very soon.


    Turning off the stove, he muttered, "Enjoy your time with her while you can Sebastian Stewart because when she finds out, she is going to kick your ass."


    ¡­..


    Nelson mansion.


    "I am not a kid," Charlotte shouted.


    Albert panicked and tried to calm her down. "Princess, calm down okay? If you keep taking so much stress, you''ll surely get a pimple or worse, wrinkles."


    Massaging her forehead, she sighed, "Why do you keep stressing me then uncle? You know that stress makes me look ugly."


    "I am extremely sorry sweetheart but I won''t be at peace if I leave you alone here in such a big mansion so when Rebecca Stewart told me that she would as her son and daughter to take care of you, I readily agreed," Albert explained.


    "Do you take me as a fool? Okay fine, maybe I am not very smart and I have a relatively low IQ but that doesn''t mean I don''t understand what you are trying to do," she retorted.


    Without waiting for his reply, she pointed towards her eyes and asked, "Do you know what these are?"


    "E¡ªEyes?"


    "No, they are no ordinary pair of eyes, they are lie detectors too and my lie detecting eyes are telling me that you are lying." Glaring at him, she threatened him, "So are you telling me on your own or should I use my brutal method to spill things out of you?"


    Loosening his tie, Albert cleared his throat and gave her a weak smile. "It''s nothing so serious, Mrs Stewart wants you and Sebastian to spend more time together so¡ª"


    "Ce n''est pas possible,"


    "Okay, that is French," He frowned.


    "Non ¨¨ possibile,"


    "Honey I am not under¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she added, "Das ist nicht m?glich."


    "Is the German?"


    Glaring at him, she snapped, "That was ''It''s not possible'' in French, Italian and German." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Well, since you don''t seem to understand English, I thought maybe you would understand if I tell you in a different language."


    ¡­...

 Chapter 116 - Busted

    "But¡ª"


    "Look uncle, I respect you alot and I love you too but that doesn''t mean you''ll take advantage of my love and force me to do something that I don''t want to," Charlotte snapped, Albert had never forced or pushed her to do something that she didn''t want to so his current behavior of urging her to try to work things out with Sebastian was driving her crazy.


    "Alright, don''t get hyped up sweetheart. It''s okay if you don''t like Sebastian but you also need to understand that I won''t be at peace if I leave you alone without any guidance right?" When she nodded her head, he added, "So I want you to stay with Sebastian and his sister until I come back. Now, is that too much to ask?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she agreed. "Fine but just because I don''t want you to worry about me."


    Giving her a hug, Albert smiled, "That''s like my good girl."


    ¡­..


    Next morning


    Stewart International Group


    "Dude, you got a puppy?" Noah chuckled.


    Taking a sip from his coffee, Calvin muttered, "This guy is busted already."


    "I know right? I mean weren''t you afraid of dogs or anything furry?" Noah curiously asked. He very well remembered how much Sebastian freaked out whenever he saw anything furry, especially dogs of any size.


    "Hey, you remember the time when he ran away like a mad man when he saw a Chihuahua in my place?" Calvin chuckled.


    Sebastian frowned and retorted, "Hey, don''t compare your unruly, wild and arrogant dog with our Boji. She is so sweet and adorable just like El."


    Placing his hand on his chest, Noah sighed, "How sweet, now why don''t you bake cookies for us Mrs Miller?"


    Spitting out coffee all over the desk, Calvin coughed vigorously and started laughing out loud. "Oh man that was a good one."


    "Do you think this is funny? Come on guys, I called you both over to discuss a very important thing so can you both stop messing around? Tease me as much as you want after you help me sort this out,"


    Sensing the seriousness of the matter, Noah asked, "What happened?"


    "So Ellie asked me whether I went for any date after she join work and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Calvin gasped, "And you lied to her."


    "Dude, how can you lie to a woman? Have you lost your mind?" Noah snapped.


    Sebastian gulped in nervousness and hesitantly asked, "What is the worst consequence of this?"


    "No s.e.x for an entire week¡ª"


    "Sometimes a whole month," Calvin added.


    Massaging his forehead, Noah sighed, "I don''t even want to think about it. The last time I lied to Melissa, she didn''t let me touch her for two whole days and refused to talk to me."


    "Hey but El and Seb aren''t in that s.e.x phase right now." Calvin reminded them.


    Sebastian sighed and nodded his head. Forget about the s.e.x phase, they were not even in the first phase. He was yet to propose to her and tell her about his feelings.


    "Okay so the worst consequence is Ellie stops talking to you, no hugs and¡ª"


    Cutting Noah off, Calvin added, "No sandwiches."


    Sebastian widened his eyes in shock and panicked, "W¡ªwhat? No sandwiches?"


    Calving frowned and retorted, "You care about sandwiches more than Ellie not talking to you?"


    "Forget about that Cal because that is not the real point, our main concern now is how are we going to help Seb keep this thing away from El."


    Calvin nodded his head and readily agreed, "Yes, since he has already lied, that is the only thing we can do."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Sebastian added, "That is not the only problem actually." Without waiting for their reply, he continued, "Mom wants Charlotte to stay with Ava and me until Mr Nelson is back from his business trip."


    "You gotta be kidding me, Sebastian Stewart you are so f.u.c.k.i.n.g dead."


    Massaging his forehead, Noah sighed, "Why does she keep making things difficult for you and Ava?"


    "Your mom is pure evil," Calvin snapped.


    "She said that she would fly back if we refused to take care of her so I had no other choice. I don''t want her to come back at least until I propose to Ellie and make our relationship official." Sebastian explained.


    Placing his hand on his chest, Noah smiled, "My Seb has finally transformed into a real man." Wiping his non-existing tears away, he sighed, "He is all grown up now."


    "I know right? Ellie really awakened the hibernating man within him." Clapping his hands, Calvin suggested, "I have an awesome plan."


    "What?" Sebastian and Noah blurted out in union.


    "Why don''t you shift Ava and Charlotte to another apartment? I mean you obviously cannot keep her in your apartment because El is gonna kick your ass if you do that."


    Sebastian frowned and said, "I can''t keep Ava with a stranger like that. I mean we don''t know what kind of a woman she is right?"


    "I agree with Seb on that."


    Pretending to think for a while, Calvin asked, "Why don''t I keep them in my place?" When both of them gave him a weird look, he added, "You see, my place isn''t far from yours and I have three spare rooms so they can keep one each. I am always in my office working hard to earn a living so the girls can have all the privacy they want."


    Thinking for quite some time, Noah said, "Hmm I think that isn''t a bad idea, it''s Calvin after all and we can totally trust Ava with him right? He is like her brother two."


    Giving him a weak smile, Calvin nodded his head.


    "Alright then, let''s go with that plan and I hope we won''t f.u.c.k this up," Without waiting for their reply, Sebastian asked, "Owen''s house warming party is tomorrow right?"


    "Uh-huh it''s tomorrow, you and El are coming right?"


    "Of course we are." Glancing at his watch, he added, "We are going shopping today, we need to buy so many things for Boji."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 117 - Brand

    "Damn man this sounds so unlikely of you but I am happy to see you like this," Calvin smiled.


    "I know right? I like the new Sebastian who never existed before Ellie worked her charm on you."


    Resting his head on his elbow, Sebastian smiled, "She is awesome right?"


    "Oh yes she is awesome Mr Big Big, now could you please stop daydreaming about your would be girlfriend and get back to work?"


    Picking up his coat, Calvin said, "I gotta go too, I have this important meeting today in thirty minutes."


    "And it''s almost Melissa''s morning massage time."


    "Okay, I''ll see you guys tomorrow at Owen''s."


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s office.


    "Oh my God this is so cute, you got a puppy together? Ahh this is such a big step."


    "I know but I think we are so ready for this. I mean with Boji around, we have become more close." Ellie smiled, she loved how they cuddled and played around with Boji together. Sebastian looked so cute when he ran after Boji and she could never get enough of that lovely scenario.


    Giving Ellie a hug, Mellissa sighed, "I cannot wait for you and Sebastian to be official. It''s gonna be so awesome, I am so happy for you both."


    Pulling away, she pouted her lips, "Yeah but I don''t know what''s taking him so long, I mean it''s evident that he also has feelings for me right?" When Melissa nodded her head, she added, "Then why isn''t he telling me that?"


    "Well, it''s Sebastian El and it''s his first being with a woman. He was never an asshole like Noah, Calvin and Owen. He is a pure, untouched brand who has zero experience in woman or intimacy. I am a hundred percent sure that even he must be fiddling to find a way to tell how he feels about you so why don''t you give him some time? I am sure that he won''t make you wait for long."


    "Brand? Geez Mel don''t call my Sebastian that," Ellie retorted.


    "Oh come on, men can be compared to brands too. I mean the cheapskates and jerks are brand less. Guys like Noah, Calvin and Owen are hmm a little brandy but a guy like Seb is not only rare to find, they are also super cute, adorable and very brandy." Melissa explained.


    "Like from where do you come up with things like this?" Ellie chuckled.


    "Apart from the fact that it already exists, I am very talented."


    "Of course my baby is very talented, the most talented of all." Walking towards her, Noah gave her a peck on her cheeks. "I love you."


    "Oh God guys get a room," Ellie rolled her eyes before resuming her work. She had to finish everything before lunch because she had to go shopping with Sebastian.


    ¡­..


    4:00 pm


    Sebastian''s place


    "Oh my God, did you both buy the whole store?" Ava chuckled.


    Taking Boji from her hand, Ellie sighed, "Ask your brother who wanted to buy the entire shop."


    "It''s not my fault that everything was super cute just like our little Boji." Scratching her head, he smiled, "And our Boji deserves the best."


    "Thank you so much for taking care of her Ava,"


    Ava chuckled and said, "No biggie El, Boji is a sweetheart and we have already established a nice aunt-niece bond." Looking at them, she smiled, "You both really look so awesome together."


    Ellie pouted her lips and gave Sebastian a look before walking inside along with Boji.


    "Seb, you haven''t proposed El yet right?" When he shook his head, Ava rolled her eyes, "Do it before I do."


    "I am planning it¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "Plan it before someone takes her away right under your nose. Anyway, I wanted to talk to you about something very important."


    "What is it?"


    Massaging her forehead, she sighed, "Mom wants me to go on a date with that Nathane guy this Sunday but I don''t want to so will you help me out with this?"


    "You want me to go on a date with Nathane? No Ava, I am not doing that." He frowned.


    Crossing her arms in the front, she glared at him. "No you idiot, why would I send you on a date with a man? Are you out of your mind?"


    "Okay, so what do you want me to do?"


    "Just help me come up with a reason, please?"


    Sebastian sighed and quickly agreed. "Fine but you''ll have to help me out too."


    "Help you in what?"


    Looking around when he saw Ellie busy with Boji, he dragged Ava to a corner.


    "Seb what is wrong with you?"


    "There is a problem and I need you to help me get out of this," he whispered.


    "Why the hell are you whispering?" She frowned.


    "Because El cannot hear this otherwise she will stop making sandwiches for me and she will not stop talking to me."


    Raising her brows, she asked, "Okay so what the hell did you do?"


    "Remember I was forced to go on a date when Ellie was in Seattle?" When she nodded her head, he added, "There is a small problem, mom wants us to bring Charlotte over to stay with us until her uncle comes back from the business trip."


    "Who is Charlotte? And is she a small kid? Can''t she stay all by herself?" Ava frowned.


    "Charlotte is the woman I went on a date with and mom said that if we don''t invite her over, she will fly back and we don''t want that right? So I have decided something."


    "What?"


    "You see, we can''t keep Charlotte here because if Ellie finds out about the date, I am dead. So I want you to stay with her somewhere else and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "What? You want me to do what? You want to stay with a stranger? Oh come on Sebastian, I don''t even know what this woman looks like."


    "Look I know that it''s a bit weird but¡ª"


    "No, I am not doing that."


    "Hey, don''t say that, I am helping you out with Nathane so even you will have to help me out with this. And with Calvin around, it''s not gonna be that difficult."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 118 - Rummy Gummy

    "What? Calvin?"


    "Yes, even I wasn''t sure about this whole keeping you with a stranger thing but Calvin offered help."


    "What kind of help?" Ava inquired,her heart was already pounding in joy and she almost couldn''t contain her excitement.


    "Calvin said that he would take you and Charlotte in because he has three spare rooms. So you don''t have¡ª"


    Without waiting for him to finish his sentence, she excitedly agreed, "Okay."


    "Huh? So you don''t have a problem?" He asked.


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, she tried to control her excitement. "I mean since Calvin is there to help me out then it will be much easier and less awkward for me to stay with Charlotte."


    "Great." Giving her a hug, Sebastian sighed in relief, "You have no idea how grateful I am Ava, thank you so much."


    Patting his back, Ava smiled, "Anything for you big bro."


    "You are coming for tomorrow''s party right?"


    "Of course I will."


    ¡­..


    Next day


    Ellie''s apartment.


    Wearing her earrings, Ellie inquired, "Are you sure we can take Boji?"


    "Of course we can, we can''t leave her alone right? And Owen is not that stingy, he can surely afford to feed our little boji."


    Placing her hand on her waist, Ellie smiled, "You both really look very cute together."


    Letting out a cute muffled bark, Boji snuggled closer to his dada. She was wearing a red belt with paw prints and it also had a small bell on it which made her look even more adorable than she already was.


    Looking at Ellie, Sebastian smiled, "You look great."


    She was wearing a maroon solid knitted fit and flare short dress which had an off-shoulder styling and small sleeves. She had paired it with a light silver-golden colour stiletto and a pair of floral earrings. She had left her hair open and had a very little makeup up with a nude coloured lipstick.


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, she said, "Thank you."


    Offering her his arm, he asked, "So, shall we leave?"


    Hooking her arm around his, she chuckled, "Well, of course."


    Stopping midway, she stuck her tongue out. "I forgot my coat and yours too."


    Running towards her bedroom, she grabbed her off-white trench coat and his black one which was lying on her bed before rushing out.


    Hooking her arm on his once more, she said, "Now we are ready to go."


    Holding Boji and Ellie in his left and right arms respectively, Sebastian guided them out of the apartment.


    ¡­...


    Owen''s new place.


    Inside the car.


    Unbuckling the seat belt, Sebastian said, "Don''t forget to take your coat because the party is outside, near the pool."


    "Wow, Owen and June''s new place looks so cool."


    "Hmm but don''t you think that an apartment is much better? I mean it''s more convenient to clean and take care of."


    Ellie shrugged her shoulders and answered, "Well yes but a place with a lawn where you can take a walk and play around and maybe be a small garden at the back of the house doesn''t sound that bad right?"


    He smiled and nodded his head, "No it doesn''t sound bad, in fact, it sounds more lovely when you say it."


    "Hmm you carry Boji and I''ll bring our coats."


    "Okay."


    ¡­.


    "Ah finally you both are here, we were waiting for you."


    Giving June and Owen a hug, Ellie explained, "Sebastian takes so much time to get ready."


    "What? Seb?" Owen chuckled.


    "Uh-huh, he is a late kate," Ellie whispered.


    Hooking his arms around Sebastian''s neck, Owen teased, "So what took you so long? Waxing or choosing the right shade of your eyeshadow."


    Throwing her head back, Ellie laughed, "Stop teasing him, it was me who took a little more time than I should''ve. Seb was waiting for me with Boji for a really long time."


    Pointing towards the furry creature Sebastian was holding, June asked, "Is she Boji?" When Ellie nodded her head, she gasped, "Oh God she is so cute and adorable."


    "You want one too honey?"Owen asked.


    Taking Boji from Sebastian, June shook her head, "No, I think one dog is enough for me to handle."


    Everyone tried very hard not to laugh or chuckle but Owen who was completely clueless, frowned, "Strange, babe we don''t have a dog."


    "Dude stop it, "Calvin yelled before bursting into laughter followed by the others.


    "What? Why are you people laughing?" Owen frowned who was still clueless and lost.


    Squeezing his cheeks, June chuckled, "My adorable little baby."


    Giving Melissa and Ava a hug, Ellie asked, "When did you all arrive?"


    "A long time back and I have awesome news to share."


    Ellie gasped and widened her eyes in shock. "Are you pregnant?"


    "That was my first guess when she told that," Ava chuckled.


    Melissa rolled her eyes and sighed, "No I am not pregnant, Noah is very careful about protection you know so there is only a tiny sliver of chance that I might fall pregnant before we get married."


    "Okay so what is the news?" Ellie asked.


    "Our company is taking the management team for a camping trip over the weekend."


    "Yes and it''s an annual thing." Ava added.


    "Okay so?"


    Excitedly grabbing Ellie''s hand, Melisa beamed, "The trip this year is scheduled this weekend."


    "You mean the coming weekend?" When both of them nodded their heads, Ellie smiled, "That sounds interesting."


    "Not only interesting but it''s super fun too and you''ll have to come with us." Ava suggested.


    "Hmm, is Sebastian coming too?" She asked.


    Melissa and Ava gave each other a look and shook their heads. "You know him right? He isn''t interested in these kinds of trips."


    "But it''s different now right?" Without waiting for their reply, Ava added, "I mean that was before and I am sure that if you tell him, he will definitely join us too."


    When both of them gave her a meaningful look, Ellie sighed, "Fine, I''ll talk to him."


    "Great, let''s grab a drink," Melissa suggested.


    Ellie''s eyes sparkled when she saw a huge bowl of gummy bears. "Wow so many gummy bears and they are so big too." Taking a handful of them, she started eating them. She had been craving for them since a really long time but never really got the time to grab a packet for herself.


    Ava widened her eyes and nudged Melissa''s arm. "So we aren''t telling her that it''s rummy gummy[1]?"


    ¡­..


    [1] Gummy bears soaked in raw rum and vodka for hours.

 Chapter 119 - Handsome hunk

    "Do you have any idea how fun and entertaining a drunk Ellie is?"


    "No,"


    Grinning from ear to ear, Melissa said, "You''ll see today."


    ¡­.


    30 minutes later.


    "Hey dude, we have this camping thing coming weekend so are you coming or not?" Noah asked.


    Betrie Sebastian could say anything, Calvin added, "Just to let you know that Ellie will also be there this year right? So think before you answer."


    "Hmm, I''ll have to talk to Ellie first, if she wants to go then I don''t have any choice."


    Patting Sebastian''s back, Noah sighed, "He is the ultimate girlfriend slave now and this is a very healthy sign. Damn it bro, I am so proud of you."


    Owen, who was still trying to figure out what they were laughing at a while ago, widened his eyes in shock and gasped, "Did June just call me a dog?"


    "Ahh so finally someone turned your switch on, I am so glad." Calvin chuckled.


    "Hey Owen, why don''t you go charge June for calling you that before I turn off your switch again?" Noah asked.


    Placing his glass on the table, he rushed towards June who was talking to Melissa and Ava.


    "Hey, why don''t we discuss this with them right now?" Noah suggested.


    "Discuss what?"


    "About the camping trip of course," he added.


    "Hmm, okay."


    ¡­..


    "Babe you called me a dog," Owen frowned.


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she chuckled, "Oh no honey, I mean a cute little dog."


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, Owen grinned, "Hmm I can definitely pull off the cute dog role."


    "Oh yes you can," June added.


    Pretending to throw something in the air, Melissa yelled, "Owen go catch."


    Rolling his eyes at them, Owen pouted his lips and gave June a pitiful look.


    Pulling him into her embrace, June pretended to frown. "Hey, don''t tease him like that. He is only my cute dog."


    "Okay enough of the dog thing, let''s discuss something nice."


    "Like?"


    "About the camping thing so¡ª"


    Cutting Noah off, Sebastian asked, "Where is El?"


    Pointing towards the food table, Melissa chuckled, "You should go and get her."


    Sebastian frowned and quickly made his way towards the table.


    "Why are you both laughing?" June asked.


    "Did you soak the gummy bears in rum or vodka?" Ava asked.


    "Both but why?"


    "How many hours?" Melissa asked.


    "Around nine to ten hours,"


    Looking at each other, Ava and Melissa started laughing.


    Gulping down the entire glass of wine, Ava chuckled, "This is gonna be so fun."


    "I know right?"


    Looking at the three empty bottles of wine, Calvin frowned. "Wait a second, did you both drink them all?"


    Looking at each other, they again started laughing out loud. "Maybe."


    "But we are way more sober than El. I mean, she just ate a whole big bowl of rummy gummy." Melissa said before bursting into laughter.


    June widened her eyes in shock and gasped, "No way she ate that whole thing alone."


    Wiping her tears away, Ava vigorously nodded her head, "Oh yes she did."


    "Why didn''t you both stop her?" June snapped.


    "Nah, drunk Ellie is fun."


    ¡­.


    Sebastian frowned when he saw Ellie eating and drinking something while giggling all by herself.


    Squatting down in front of her, he called her out, " El?"


    Lifting her head when she saw him, she cupped his face and chuckled, "Ahh look it''s my handsome hunk."


    Looking at her flushed face, slight red drunk eyes and her lips which surprisingly looked more plump than it usually did, he frowned deeper.


    Looking at the wine glass, he asked, "You have been drinking."


    "And eating." Shoving a rummy gummy inside his mouth, she chuckled, "It''s tasty right."


    He widened his eyes in shock and asked, "Aren''t these gummy bears soaked in rum?" Looking at the almost empty bowl, he yelled, "You ate them all?"


    Picking up the wine glass, she chuckled and nodded her head before gulping down the leftover wine.


    Taking the glass away from her, he frowned, "Okay now you need to stop."


    "Oh my God, you ate them all?" June gasped.


    Patting her stomach, Ellie chuckled, "Everything inside my cute little stomach."


    "Sebastian, those were soaked in raw rum and vodka for several hours," June informed.


    "Seriously is this a teenage college party? Why would you make them?" Sebastian snapped.


    June pouted her lips and defended herself. "Well, it''s tasty and I like them alot."


    Snatching the bottle of wine from Ellie''s hand, Sebastian added, "She hasn''t eaten anything yet and she drank so much alcohol."


    "Hmm, I don''t think so she hasn''t eaten anything." Showing him two empty plates, she said, "The hotdogs plate is empty, the sausages are all gone and I cannot find the cuc.u.mber salad."


    Looking at Ellie who was laughing for no good reason, June chuckled, "Wow, she is a very heavy eater but actually doesn''t look like one."


    Grabbing his t-shirt, Ellie tried to get up but ended up slipping because of her stilettos.


    "Pfft I can''t even walk in these stupid heels," she muttered before laughing out loud.


    Sebastian sighed and bent down to take them off for her. "Why did you wear them then?"


    "Because our heights won''t match it I don''t," she pouted her lips.


    After taking them off, he tossed them aside and helped her up.


    Hugging his waist, she buried her face on his chest and slowly made her way towards their friends along with Sebastian.


    ¡­..


    "Woah someone looks drunk," Calvin chuckled.


    "Sebastian, he is calling me a drunkard, you gotta kick his ass." Ellie complained.


    "Hey El, why don''t you kick his ass?" Ava asked.


    "Why don''t Ava and I hold his hands and legs, you can kick his ass or just slit his throat?" Melissa suggested.


    Calvin widened his eyes in shock and took a deep back. "You women are f.u.c.k.i.n.g dangerous."


    Hooking her arms around Sebastian''s neck, Ellie pouted her lips at him.


    "What happened El?"


    "Noah gives Melissa butt massages every night so when will you start giving me butt massages?"


    ¡­.

 Chapter 120 - Deep........

    Sebastian''s ears and face turned red and he had no idea how he was supposed to answer that question in front of everyone. He didn''t really mind giving her a butt or any other massage. In fact, he would love to give her one whenever she wanted but how could he say that out loud in front of everyone?


    He knew that Ellie was not in her complete senses and she would surely fuss and feel embarrassed about it tomorrow so he decided to cover up for her so that she feels a little less embarrassed tomorrow morning


    "You wanna go home?" He asked with a hope that the super drunk Ellie would immediately nod her head but who would''ve thought that she would make things more difficult for him.


    Looking at him with teary eyes, she complained, "You don''t wanna give me butt massages?" Without waiting for his response, she tried to push him away. "I don''t want to talk to you."


    Tightening his grip around her waist, he tried to stabilize her but when she kept fidgeting and tried to get away from him, he vigorously nodded his head and decided to agree with whatever she wanted. "Yes, I will give you a butt massage too okay? Now stop being sad."


    How could he let her go or make her feel sad? His happiness totally depended on her. If she was happy, he automatically felt happy too.


    Pulling his cheeks, she chuckled, "That''s like my cute little Seb."


    When he smiled at her, she asked, "Do you wanna give me a butt massage now?"


    Sebastian widened his eyes in shock while the others started giggling and laughing.


    "Yes, come on Seb, do what El wants," Calvin teased.


    Glaring at his friends, he turned towards Ellie and sighed. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he tried to coax her. "Why don''t I give you one after we go home? When we both are alone and there is no one to disturb us?"


    Placing her finger on his chest, she frowned, "You always leave me alone on the cold and empty bed." Turning towards Melissa Ava and June, she added, "He never cuddles with me."


    "No cuddles? Bad Sebastian," Melissa chuckled who was also very tipsy.


    "Hey, don''t call my Seb bad," she snapped before turning towards him. "No you are not bad, how can my Seb be bad?"


    ''My Seb''. Hearing these two magical words from her made him feel in cloud nine. The dormant butterflies in his stomach suddenly started breakdancing while his heart started beating wildly in joy. The huge grin on his face was a perfect reflection of what he was feeling in his heart.


    "Dude, is it just me or Ellie looks more hot when she is drunk?" Calvin asked.


    "Oh no it''s not just you, she really does." Owen added.


    "What the hell is wrong with you both? El is Sebastian''s would be girlfriend okay? You can''t see her that way." Noah frowned.


    When both of them gave him a weird look, he sighed, "Fine, she does look very hot."


    Fanning herself, Ellie said, "I am feeling so hot."


    "Do you want some water?" Without waiting for her reply, Sebastian added, "Hold on, I''ll get some for you."


    As soon as he left, Ellie grabbed the hem of her dress and took off, revealing her black lacy bra and thongs.


    Calvin, Owen and Noah gasped and their eyes in shock when they saw something that they shouldn''t have and had never ever imagined to see.


    When Sebastian heard some noise, he turned over and when he saw the most unexpected thing, he widened his eyes in shock.


    Ellie was standing right in front of not just him, but everyone wearing a two piece bikini like thing, looking all s.e.xy, hot and tempting.


    He always knew that she had a really nice body but he had never thought it would be this s.e.xy and alluring. The clothes that she wore everyday, surely did no justice to that body of hers.


    Coming out of his daze, Sebastian''s first instinct was to rush towards her but who would''ve thought that before he could take any action, she would again do something unexpected.


    Blowing a flying kiss at him, she jumped into the pool, making everyone gasp once again


    .


    "F.u.c.k," he cursed under his breath and started taking off his t-shirt and pants.


    "You go girl," Melissa shouted before taking off her dress and following her best friends actions.


    When Ava and June did the same thing, Noah, Owen and Calvin started taking off their clothes. Who were they to hold back when their partners were diving inside the pool half n.a.k.e.d?


    Without thinking about anything, Sebastian was the first one to jump inside the pool only wearing his boxers. Calvin, Noah and Owen also did the same.


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, he frowned, "Are you out of your mind? How can you¡ª"


    Placing her finger on his lips, she chuckled, "Ssshhh, no scolding."


    Removing her finger from his lips, she hooked her arms around his neck and buried her face on his neck.


    "Why are you so handsome?" She muttered before pulling away.


    With their chests tightly glued together, he could clearly see her deep cleavage and the upper half of her b.r.e.a.s.ts which were peeking out of her wet bra. She had one of her thighs wrapped around his while rubbing the other one all over Sebastian''s other thigh under the water.


    Sebastian was trying very hard not to look at her cleavage or her b.r.e.a.s.t but they were too attractive and sumptuous to ignore and it was very hard to not look at them.


    Tightening his grip around her waist, he gulped in nervousness. He shouldn''t be doing this and he shouldn''t be looking or even thinking about how nice it would feel when he touched them but he couldn''t help it. All he could think of was Ellie, her amazing body and her beautiful pair of b.r.e.a.s.ts which were staring at him.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 121 - Butty night

    Closing his eyes, Sebastian took a deep breath and tried to calm her down but he jolted them open when Ellie placed her hand on his bare chest.


    Poking them, she chuckled, "It''s just like I had thought, hard yet soft at the same time." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Mine are soft too, see."


    Grabbing his hand, she was about to place them on her chest but Sebastian pulled it back.


    "Hmm you wanna go home? Let''s go home okay?" He was about to guide her out of the pool when she hooked her arms neck again.


    "Why are you like this Mr Stewart?"


    "Like what?"


    Rubbing her nose against his, she smiled, "Cute, handsome, shy and adorable." Without waiting for his reply, she continued, "But you are also arrogant, rude and you also act like a huge d.i.c.khead at times which makes me super mad."


    Caressing her cheeks, he sighed, "I am sorry for making you mad at times. Like, I know that I am bad at expressing myself but¡ª"


    "Dude, no point saying all that now, she will probably not remember anything tomorrow morning so save it." Calvin who had been eavesdropping their conversation for a really long time suggested.


    When Sebastian gave him a very deadly ''You are so dead'' look for intruding on their private conversation, Calvin shrugged his shoulders, "I am saying that for your own good. How on earth can I let you propose a drunk girl for the first time? I don''t want you to feel disappointed when she remembers nothing tomorrow morning. I care about you man."


    Though he was still gonna thrash him for eavesdropping, Sebastian did feel that whatever Calvin said made sense. He had feelings for Ellie but confessing it when she was high in rummy gummy wasn''t the best choice. He would rather plan it out and confess it to her in a very special way.


    Taking a deep breath, Sebastian securely wrapped her arms around her waist and guided her towards the metallic stairs of the pool. He needed to take his drunk Ellie home before she started doing something really inappropriate in front of everyone.


    Burying her head on his chest, she vigorously shook her head. "I don''t wanna go, I want to stay here with you, inside the water."


    "But if you stay any longer, you''ll catch a cold. So why don''t we go home and I''ll make some hot chocolate for you."


    Ellie nodded her head and tried to climb up the concrete floor around the pool but couldn''t.


    "This is so high," she complained.


    "Why don''t we use the stairs?"


    "No, it''s fun like this. Can you help me?" She chuckled.


    He nodded his head, placed his hand on her waist and pushed her upwards.


    Pushing herself up, Ellie chuckled, "You touched my butt." Sitting on the concrete floor, she added, "Quick, let me touch yours too."


    Sebastian widened his eyes in shock and vigorously shook his head. "No, I did not touch it purposely. I was pushing you up so¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she said, "I don''t mind you touching me anywhere."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he slowly got out of the pool and scooped her into his arms. "Let''s get you dressed and then we leave for home."


    "Our home?" She asked.


    He smiled and nodded his head. "Yes, our home."


    "Hey Seb, you both are leaving?" Owen asked.


    Before Sebastian could say anything, Ellie shouted, "We got some butt touching to do man so we need to get home."


    Owen chuckled and said, "Alright, I''ll see you both tomorrow."


    "Hey Seb, happy butty night," Noah shouted.


    Ignoring everyone''s comment, Sebastian made his way towards their clothes. He had to get Ellie home before she does anything unlikely.


    Placing her on the chair, he picked up his t-shirt from the floor and started wearing it followed by his pants.


    "Why would you hide that s.e.xy and tasty body of yours with some stupid piece of cloth? They are blocking my s.e.xy view," she complained.


    Picking up her dress, he said, "Come on, let''s wear this."


    "I don''t want to, I wanna stay this way because I am feeling very hot."


    Sebastian was about to coax her when Boji started snuggling between their legs.


    Thinking got quite some time, he grabbed his coat from the chair and dr.a.p.ed it around Ellie. "Just wear this until we reach home okay?" Without waiting for her reply, he picked up Boji and shoved it into her arms. "You carry her and I''ll carry the two of you."


    When she nodded her head, he scooped her into his arms once again and started walking out of the mansion, towards their car.


    "Look Boji dada is so strong, he is carrying you and mommy together." She chuckled.


    Sebastian smiled and helplessly shook his head. Though he also loved the Ellie high of gummy rummy, he still preferred the sober and sweet Ellie. The Ellie he loved and wanted to cherish for his entire life.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s apartment.


    "Alright, here we are." Placing her on the bed, he added, "I''ll get something for you to wear for the night."


    Slumping on the bed, she groaned, "I don''t wanna change."


    "But you can''t sleep like that, you are wet¡ª" awkwardly scratching his forehead, he rephrased his sentence. "I mean your clothes are wet and you''ll catch a cold if you sleep wearing them."


    "Wet?" Forcing herself up, she took off the coat and dropped it on the ground. "Nothing is wet."


    She was half n.a.k.e.d in front of him again which made him gulp in nervousness. Seeing her like that when there were other people around them was very different than seeing her like that when they were alone.


    He could feel heat creeping all over his body. It was such a beautiful yet tempting sight which was making him feel weird. The whole sensation and impact was different.


    The woman he loved was standing in his bedroom, wearing the most s.e.xy lacy bra and a thong he had ever seen and Sebastian had no idea what he was supposed to do.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 122 - Scared

    Closing his eyes, Sebastian took a deep breath. Though everything was very tempting, pleasing and alluring, he couldn''t do anything inappropriate. Ellie trusted him and he didn''t want to give in to his desires and betray her.


    Scratching his forehead, he looked away. "Your innerwears are wet."


    "Okay, I''ll take them off."


    He widened his eyes in shock and stopped her. "No wait," rushing towards his wardrobe, he took out a fresh pair of boxers and a t-shirt. "Take them off and wear this for the night after I step out of the room okay?"


    "Where are you going?" She frowned and added, "Are you leaving me alone?"


    "No I am not, I''ll just go and check on Boji." Without waiting for her reply, he rushed out of the room.


    ¡­..


    Living room.


    Scratching Boji''s head who was already half asleep, Sebastian sighed, "Your mommy is a little drunk today so we better not disturb her."


    Pausing for a while, he added, "I don''t want you to get any wrong ideas but your mom isn''t a drunkard. She accidentally ate too many gummy bears which were soaked in vodka so maybe it''s not her fault."


    Placing Boji on her small fluffy bed, Sebastian smiled wondering how his life turned out to be so beautiful and happening. There was a time when he felt very lonely and left out after coming home but now, he got excited whenever he left for home from the office.


    Ellie completely changed his life into something that he hadn''t even thought about. Now he had Ellie in his life along with Boji and his friends. Everything had changed but in a very good way.


    ¡­.


    After taking a shower in the other room, Sebastian decided to check on Ellie.


    As soon as he entered the room, his eyes landed on Ellie''s wet bra and thong which were lying on the floor.


    Contemplating for quite some time, he hesitantly picked them up. As soon as his fingers touched the fabric, his stomach churned and he started feeling very giddy.


    He was holding the bra and thong she was wearing and he couldn''t help but imagine how it would feel when he would touch them while she is wearing it.


    After a couple of seconds, he widened his eyes in shock when he realized something. If he was holding her undergarments, it means she wasn''t wearing any at the moment.


    Looking at Ellie who was soundly sleeping on the bed, he sighed before picking up the other clothes that were lying on the floor and rushed towards the washroom.


    He wanted to stop himself from thinking that she was braless and underwear less but for some odd reason, he couldn''t.


    Brushing off all the dirty images and thoughts, he made his way towards the bed and tucked her with the blanket properly.


    "Seb¡ª" she muttered.


    "Hmm,"


    Lazily stretching her arms towards him, she added, "I want a hug."


    Without wasting any time, he sat down beside her and pulled her into his embrace. Who was he to say no when his woman had demanded for a hug for the first time?


    Snuggling closer, she sighed, "You are so warm."


    Pulling her closer, he frowned, "Why is your body so cold? This is why you shouldn''t have jumped into the pool."


    Placing her chin on his chest, she pouted her lips. "But it was fun."


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he said, "Don''t do it again okay? It''s already getting cold and I don''t want you to fall sick."


    Looking at him for quite some time, she took a deep breath. "I like you Sebastian but¡ª" burying her head on his neck, she sighed, "I am scared, scared that you don''t feel the same for me and my feelings for you is one sided."


    When he did not say anything, she added, "I know you might be thinking that I am crazy but it is how it is and I cannot do anything about it."


    Sebastian on the other hand was taken aback by Ellie''s sudden confession. He wasn''t expecting it to happen today and he was also not expecting her to say it first. He had no idea what he was supposed to do, even he wanted to tell her that he felt the same for her but he also knew that she would not remember anything tomorrow morning with the amount of alcohol she had consumed.


    "What makes you think I don''t like you?" He wanted to know what made her feel that way. Though he was bad at expressing himself, Sebastian had made sure that she feels special and loved when they were together.


    "Sometimes I feel like you do but sometimes I feel like you don''t. You make me feel special all the time but at the same time, you never talk to me about your feelings. I feel so confused and sad."


    Without waiting for his reply, she looked at him and asked, "Sebastian Stewart, will you catch me if I fall for you?"


    Caressing her cheeks, Sebastian smiled and nodded his head. "Always."


    Smiling in satisfaction, she buried her head on his chest and demanded, "I wanna cuddle all night."


    Kissing the top of head, he muttered, "Sleep, I am right here."


    Obediently nodding her head, she closed her eyes and fell sleeping in his arms.


    Adjusting the blanket, he pulled her closer and murmured, "I love you El."


    ...


    Calvin''s place.


    "Woah, steady honey," Calvin sighed before unlocking the door. Ava had consumed more alcohol than she should''ve so he had to carry her to his place.


    "It was such a lovely night and I had so much fun," Ava chuckled.


    "You and Melissa drank all the leftover wine from the counter, I bet you had fun." Helping her take off her shoes, he added, "I''ll go get your spare clothes."


    Grabbing her hand, she pulled him towards herself and hooked her arms around his neck. "Maybe I don''t need any clothes tonight."


    "Babe you can''t wear this to sleep, it''s wet."


    Biting her lower lip, she added, "Maybe you can warm me up tonight."


    Calvin gulped in nervousness when she slowly started unbuttoning his shirt.


    Taking a deep breath, he grabbed her hand and stopped her. "You are drunk Ava."


    "I am drunk enough to take an initiative but sober enough to remember everything that will happen."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 123 - Spanking

    "I-I don''t know Ava, this is a huge step and¨C"


    "Wait, are you saying no to s.e.x?"


    Massaging his forehead, Calvin sighed, "I-I just don''t want us to go down that road only because you are drunk and horny."


    Raising her brows at him, Ava placed her hand on her waist. "Either something is terribly wrong with you or you are getting all the s.e.x from outside and that is why you are turning your beautiful girlfriend down."


    "What? Are you crazy? We are together all the time, do you think I have some kind of a time machine or something like that? I haven''t had s.e.x in months," He frowned.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ava cleared her throat and sat down again. "Oh, I see."


    "Okay now what on earth did you see?" He anxiously asked.


    Placing her hand on his arm, she sighed, "You don''t have to be embarrassed Cal, we will deal with this together, okay?"


    "What? What do you mean? Embarrassed? Why would I be embarrassed and for what?" He frowned. Calvin was having a bad feeling that Ava was thinking something either really weird or unrealistic which would definitely bite his ass.


    "You know, one of my friend''s boyfriend had the same problem too but they consulted this amazing doctor and¨C"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "What now?"


    "Ah honey it''s alright, we will find a way out of this." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "And don''t worry I wont tell anyone, not even Seb or June. Even if we tell them, it''s not like they will judge you. I mean erectile dysfunction is quite common and¡ª"


    "Hold on a second, what now?" Pausing for a while, he frowned and asked, "Who the hell has an erectile dysfunction?"


    Ava shrugged her shoulders and said, "Well, the only person who has p.e.n.i.s in this room is you so obviously its your d.i.c.k that has a standing problem."


    Placing his hand on his waist, he mockingly chuckled, "Always the best way to get into a man''s pants." Pointing his finger at her, he snarled, "You take that back Ava Stewart or you are going to regret judging by tools."


    Grabbed his finger, she inched closer. "Make me regret it but of course if you can."


    "You are so f.u.c.k.i.n.g doomed," carrying her over shoulder, he spanked her ass.


    "We will see who has what problems tonight," he yelled before rushing towards the bedroom.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s place.


    Holding her head, Ellie groaned in pain. Her head was pounding in pain and she was feeling a bit dizzy too.


    Glancing at the watch, she widened her eyes in shock. It was already ten and she was late for work by an hour already.


    "Damn it," she cursed before jumping out of the bed.


    Looking around, she noticed that she was not in her room and this was definitely not her apartment. She widened her eyes in shock when she realized that she was in Sebastian''s room.


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, she massaged her forehead and tried to reminisce about what had happened yesterday at Owen and June''s house warming party but all she could remember was shoving gummy bears in her mouth like a hungry monster, everything after that was very blur and hard to remember.


    Just then Sebastian entered the room holding a glass of honey lemon lukewarm water. "You are up? I thought you would wake up directly at noon."


    "Why can''t I remember anything that happened yesterday?" she curiously asked.


    "Hmm, well we can say that rummy gummy played its role quite well." Passing her the water, he added, "Drink this, you''ll feel much better."


    "Those were rummy gummies? No wonder they were so huge and looked so bloated." Taking the glass, she asked, "Did you bring me home?"


    Sebastian shrugged his shoulders and answered, "No, you suddenly grew wings and you flew us home."


    Rolling her eyes at him, she gulped down the whole glass. "Keep joking and we are already late for work."


    Grabbing her hand, he forcibly made her sit back. "Take a leave and rest today, I''ll handle work."


    "Yeah so that you can again yell at the employees for no good reason? Thank you so much."


    "What? How am I a yelling boss all of a sudden?" He curiously inquired.


    Keeping the glass down, she answered, "You yelled at me twice for no good reason and you were also yelling at the employees when I was on a leave."


    "Firstly, I don''t yell for no good reason. The first time I yelled at you was your fault."


    "Fine but what about the second time? You shouted at me back in San Francisco." She still had no idea why he was so mad at her all of a sudden at that time and she was very curious to know the reason behind it.


    Reminiscing what had happened back then, he frowned. "I was mad because you were flirting with that guy and laughing at his stupid jokes."


    "Flirting? With whom? Thomas?" When Sebastian did not say anything, she added, "I wasn''t flirting with him at all."


    "And I yelled at the employees because you left me alone and was gone for so many days. I was sad, angry and lonely okay? Not my fault," he defended himself.


    Keeping quiet for quite sometime, she asked, "So you feel lonely when I am not with you?"


    "Obviously, do you even have to ask? I am so used to being around you that it feels empty and bad when you are not there."


    Pulling his cheeks, Ellie chuckled, "Look at you acting all cute and adorable early in the morning."


    "You really don''t wanna take a leave today?"


    "Of course not, I already feel better but I think I need to rush home and change¨C"


    Cutting her off, he said, "I already drove over to your place in the morning and brought your clothes over and your¨C" stopping midway, he awkwardly cleared his throat, "Hmm why don''t you go and check the dryer and I''ll prepare breakfast for us. The machine is in the utility room, the last one."


    "Dryer? But why?" She inquired.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 124 - Strip n.a.k.e.d

    Scratching his forehead, he hesitated for a while before saying, "Why don''t you check it on your own? I''ll go and make breakfast." Without waiting for her reply, he rushed out of the room.


    Finding his behavior quite strange, she still shrugged it off and made her way towards the utility room.


    ¡­.


    Utility room.


    As soon as Ellie opened the dryer, she widened her eyes in shock when she saw her thong and bra in there and that is when she realized that she wasn''t wearing any.


    Widening her eyes in shock, she placed her hand on her chest and gasped. She wasn''t wearing anything from the inside, she was wearing Sebastian''s clothes and she had also spent the night in his room.


    Pursing her lips, she closed her eyes. She was confident that Sebastian would never do anything to her especially when she is all drunk and not in a stable mindset but the curiosity to know what had happened last night was killing her.


    Grabbing her belongings, she rushed back to the room.


    ¡­.


    Inside the room.


    Looking around when she couldn''t find her phone, she groaned in frustration.


    Just then her eyes landed on Sebastian''s phone which was lying on the bedside table. He would surely not mind if she borrowed his phone for a while right?


    Without thinking much, she grabbed his phone and started looking for Melissa''s number. She had to find out what had exactly happened last night so that she could take actions accordingly.


    "Good morning Seb I¨C"


    Cutting Melissa off, Ellie whispered, "Mel it''s me, Ellie."


    "Woah, so you have started using each other''s phone freely too? That''s interesting," she chuckled.


    Closing her eyes, Ellie sighed, "Mel I don''t have time for this, I have called you for something very important."


    "Okay, what is it?"


    "Can you tell me what exactly happened last night at Owen''s place?" Ellie inquired.


    "What happened? You seriously don''t remember anything? Seriously?" Melissa chuckled.


    "Oh no I remember everything, I am just anxiously asking you for fun, "Ellie snarled.


    Melissa sighed and helplessly shook her head. "Stop being mean okay? You need my help so be polite." Without waiting for her reply, she added, "Anyway, you were super drunk and wild last night El, it was freaking amazing. You took off your dress and jumped into the pool then¨C"


    Cutting her off, Ellie widened her eyes in shock, "What? Took off my dress? Please tell me Seb wasn''t there?"


    "Are you kidding me? Seb jumped after you, in fact, he never left your side even though you were trying to take advantage of him."


    "Advantage?" Ellie frowned.


    Melissa chuckled and explained, "Oh yes, you were all over him and you even asked him to give you a butt massage."


    Holding her head, Ellie slowly sat down on the edge of the bed to compose herself. "Please tell me that you are kidding Mel, please."


    "Pfft no I am not El, you were wild and Seb quickly carried you home. I wonder what happened last night between the two of you? But I also have this feeling that Seb would never even touch you when you are that drunk. You know, if the man taking you home in that state wasn''t Sebastian, I would''ve never let you go."


    Groaning in frustration, Ellie said, "I am so f.u.c.k.i.n.g embarrassed Mel and I don''t know what to say. Great, Seb surely thinks of me as a lowly bitch who wants to get into his pants."


    "But don''t you wanna get into his pants?" Melissa asked.


    "Mel, you know that is not true. I mean I will eventually get into his pants but only when the right time comes." Who wouldn''t want to get into the pants of the man whom she admired and had feelings for? Though Ellie didn''t have much experience in that field, she was still a woman with fantasies and desires.


    "Anyway, we are waiting for you guys in Seb''s office so when are you guys arriving?" Melissa asked.


    Ellie sighed and said, "We will be there soon."


    "Great, let''s talk afterwards. Bye, come soon."


    After hanging up the call, Ellie tossed the phone aside and massaged her forehead. She had no idea how she was supposed to face Sebastian. Though she was still wondering how and why did she end up taking off her bra and thong.


    ''Did I strip myself n.a.k.e.d and threw my body on his?'' She thought before vigorously shaking her head, hoping that whatever she was thinking would never turn out to be the truth.


    Brushing everything aside, she grabbed her clothes and entered the washroom. She also reminded herself to ask Sebastian for a few details in an indirect manner.


    ¡­.


    Dining room.


    By the time Ellie came down, the breakfast was already on the table but Sebastian was nowhere to be seen.


    Wondering where he was, she called him out, "Seb?"


    Just then, he stepped out from the guest room along with Boji who was wearing a cute little puppy sweater.


    "I was helping Boji bathe," he said.


    Taking the little one in her hands, she smiled, "She is looking so cute and adorable."


    "Yeah, you both look cute and adorable."


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her eyes, she pursed her lips and hesitantly asked, "Can I ask you something?"


    "Sure but why don''t we talk over breakfast? It''s getting cold already. Do you want me to reheat it?" He asked.


    Ellie shook her head and answered, "No, that is completely okay but why don''t we talk first?"


    When Sebastian nodded his head, she let Boji go and hesitantly started the most embarrassing conversation. "I want to talk about last night¡ª" Pausing for a while, she continued, "Mel told me what happened when we were at the party so can you tell me what happened after you brought me here?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he answered, "Well, I took you to the room and asked you to change into my home clothes which you did, then I placed you in my bed and slept in the other room."


    "T¨Cthat''s it? I mean nothing else?" When he nodded his head, she inquired, "Then how did¨CI mean the dryer, I opened it and there was¡ª"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 125 - New parents

    Understanding what she wanted to ask and know, he awkwardly cleared his throat and explained, "When I asked you to change your clothes yesterday, you left your wet clothes on the floor after wearing the dry ones. So I picked them up and placed them in the machine."


    "Clothes? But I did not see my dress in the dryer?"


    "Right because you weren''t wearing your dress, just your innerwears. You refused to wear anything after coming out of the pool so I had to carry you home just like that," Sebastian added.


    Covering her face, she groaned and sat down on the couch. "Oh my God, this is so embarrassing."


    Before Sebastian could say anything, she got up and grabbed his shirt. "Is it true that I¨CI told you to give me a¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he asked, "Butt massage? Yeah you did."


    "Oh God, this is so embarrassing." Sitting on the couch again, she buried her face on the cushion. "I don''t know what to do now." She was more embarrassed and worried thinking what Seb would''ve thought of her. She didn''t want Seb to think lowly of her but after last night, she was pretty sure that he thought of her as a wild drunkard.


    Sitting beside her, he called her out, "El, get up." When she shook her head, he added, "Why are you trying to hide from me? You''ll feel suffocated if you stay that way for a long time."


    When she did not say anything, he grabbed her shoulders and pulled her up. "Hey, what happened?"


    Pouting her lips at him, she said, "I am feeling very embarrassed, I know you think lowly of me now."


    "What? Who told you that?" Sebastian frowned.


    "I got drunk and did indecent things, I know you don''t like such wild behaviors but please don''t hate me. Look, I get drunk once in a blue moon and I never behave that way. I mean, you know how I am right?" Ellie tried very hard to defend herself.


    Taking a deep breath, he made her sit on his lap. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ears, he said, "It is true that I am not a very big fan of wild behaviors. I think it''s probably because I have always lived a disciplined life with so many rules and regulations. If it would have been anyone else, I would''ve surely not liked it but it was you El and I love everything about you. Your sweet, cute, caring behavior and also your wild side, everything about you is special and I love it."


    "Really?"


    He smiled and nodded his head. "I know yesterday was very wild and you were definitely out of control but I had fun. We were in the pool together and we had fun though it was a bit difficult at times but it''s alright, I am capable of managing the sober or drunk Ellie Miller."


    Without waiting for her reply, he added, "Now if you think that I respect you less after yesterday then you are absolutely wrong. My respect for you will never change no matter what. I know how you exactly are and nothing can change that image of you that I have in my mind. So stop thinking about anything else, you don''t have to be embarrassed about anything in front of me and you also don''t have to pretend to be someone that you are not just because I don''t like it."


    Grabbed her hand, he smiled, "Always remember that I like every version of you and I want you to be you when we are together and not someone that you are not."


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she chuckled, "Mr Stewart looks more handsome when he sweet talks."


    "Hmm, Ms Miller is responsible for Mr Stewart''s sweet talks," he smiled.


    Placing her chin on his shoulder, she sighed, "Thank you so much Seb."


    "Thank you for what?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, she said, "I don''t know, I just felt like thanking you."


    "Then I should also thank you."


    Pulling away, she glanced at the watch and widened her eyes in shock. "Oh God, we need to leave now, everyone is waiting for us in your office."


    "Waiting for us? Why?"


    "Hmm, I don''t know."


    ¡­..


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian''s office.


    When Ellie and Sebastian entered the office, everyone was busy munching some snacks.


    "Ahh there they are," Owen breathed a sigh of relief.


    Placing her hand on her waist, Ava frowned, "We have been waiting for you since morning."


    "I am so sorry, I woke up late and then we had to bathe and feed Boji too so¡ª"


    Cutting Ellie off, Melissa chuckled, "You both sound like new parents."


    "Boji is like a child," Sebastian smiled.


    "A baby with four legs, interesting."


    Smacking Noah''s head, Melissa glared at him before gesturing him to start talking about what they had gathered for.


    Clearing his throat, Noah added, "Well, we are here to talk about the camping trip which is scheduled this weekend."


    "Yes and we all have to go, no excuses," Ava added before looking at Sebastian and then Ellie.


    Sebastian on the other hand turned towards Ellie, waiting for her to say something. He would definitely go if she wanted to. How could he say anything without her approval?


    Pausing for a while, Ellie said, "Camping sounds fun."


    "You wanna go?" When she nodded her head, Sebastian smiled, "Let''s go camping then."


    Everyone squealed in excitement and grinned from ear to ear.


    "Ellie is for sure our new key to tame Sebastian," Calvin chuckled.


    "Wait, isn''t that Charlotte girl coming to stay with me from this weekend?" Ava asked.


    Sebastian''s body turned stiff while Noah and Calvin panicked.


    Realizing what she had said, Ava pursed her lips and looked at Calvin for some help.


    "Who is Charlotte?" Ellie casually asked.


    "C-Charlotte is Ava''s friend from college," Calvin quickly added.


    Owen thought for a while and frowned, "Wait if I am not wrong, isn''t Charlotte that girl''s name with whom Sebastian went on a date a few weeks back?"


    ¡­.

 Chapter 126 - Get you ass out of my office

    Owen winced in pain when Calvin pinched his arm.


    Rubbing the sore spot, Owen frowned, "Dude, why the hell did you pinch me?"


    "Wait what? A date?" Ellie frowned.


    When nobody said anything, she glared at Sebastian and snapped, "What is Owen talking about?"


    When Calvin told Owen about the whole situation, he widened his eyes in shock and jolted up. Nervously scratching his head, he tried to rephrase his sentence. "Date? Did I say date? I meant deal, yes a deal. Sebastian had to meet a woman named Charlotte for a deal."


    "Yes Owen is right, we were talking about a deal which¨C"


    Ignoring Noah, Ellie frowned depper at Sebastian and hissed,"What is Owen talking about? You went on a date with another woman?"


    Calvin got up and was about to defend his friend when Sebastian gestured him to stop.


    Turning towards El, he said, "When you were in Seattle, I had to go on a date with someone."


    "But you told me you had stopped going on blinds dates after I joined office and¨C" Pausing midway, she pursed her lips. "You lied to me."


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, he tried to explain himself. "I didn''t want to but¡ª"


    "But what? Did someone tie your legs and hands and threw you in front of that woman or were you on gun point? Stop giving me your lousy excuses Sebastian." Jerking his hands off her shoulders, she snapped, "And it''s not even about the date, you lied to me Sebastian."


    "Look I know I shouldn''t have lied to you but I thought you would get mad at me so¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped harder, "So you wisely decided to lie to me? Oh look, it''s Ellie and she is stupid, she will believe whatever I tell her so let''s lie to her because she is too dumb to find out."


    Grabbing her hand, he said, "You know I would never hurt you on purpose Ellie."


    "Purposely or not Sebastian but you did hurt me right? Go camping with that date girl of yours and have a lovely time with her." Without waiting for his reply, she dashed out of the office.


    Smacking Owen''s head, Calvin frowned, "You are a very dumb man."


    "Hey, no one told me that we were supposed to hide this from Ellie," Owen defended himself.


    Melissa sighed and helplessly shook her head. "I told you that this isn''t a very good idea Noah. El might look sweet and easy going from the outside but she has a really bad temper."


    Sebastian rushed out of the office and so did Melissa and Ava.


    ¡­.


    Ellies office.


    With her arms crossed at the front, Ellie was pacing back and forth in her office, boiling in anger. She was very mad at Sebastian for going on a date with some other woman when he had yet to take her out for an official date and for lying to her.


    Just then Sebastian entered the office and quietly stood by the door.


    Ignoring him, she made her way towards her desk and took out some papers from the drawer.


    Walking towards her, he sighed, "I know you are mad at me but at least listen to me first."


    "Why should I? So that you can lie to me again? And what do you wanna say? Will you tell me why did you go for that date? If you are really planning to lay down your stupid reasons then you better leave." The mere thought of him going out with some other woman was giving her a headache. She was very mad and may be jealous too.


    "El please¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "I don''t wanna talk to you or be anywhere near you right now so please leave me alone for a while."


    "Are you mad at me?" He asked.


    "Yes, I am very mad at Sebastian Stewart and if you don''t want things to turn ugly then you better take your ass out of my office," she yelled which scared the shit out of Sebastian.


    Without wasting any time, he gulped in nervousness and rushed outside.


    As soon as he left, Melissa and Ava stepped inside the office.


    "Woah, no one has ever shouted at the great Sebastian Stewart like that," Ava chuckled.


    Massaging her forehead, Ellie sighed. She was having a really bad headache and her anger was making it worse.


    "El, are you okay?" Melissa inquired.


    "How on earth can I be okay Melissa? The man I love is going out on dates with some other woman while I am with him, do you think this is something that will make me feel okay?" Ellie snapped.


    Ava sighed and pursed her lips before saying. "Look El, I know you that if I will say anything, you''ll probably think that I am defending my brother but I am not. You have all the right to be mad at him, in fact, you can all throw things at him. I know what Sebastian did was wrong but he had no other choice."


    "You will hate this but I agree with Ava on this one."


    "Mel what are you¨C"


    Cutting her off, Melissa added, "Don''t be mad at me but I knew about this date thing."


    "You knew? And you also kept this away from me?" Ellie shouted.


    "Noah told me about it the very day Sebastian went on a date. In fact, everyone mutually decided that it would be nice if he attended the date that his mom had arranged for him," Pausing for a while, Melissa continued, "Sebastian really had no choice."


    Ava vigorously nodded her head and said, "Mom told him that if he didn''t attend the date then she would fly back immediately and none of us wanted that. Seb was really against it but we told him that if he didn''t and if mom really came back, everything would become chaotic for you, Seb, me and Ca¨C" stopping midway, she continued, "For all the three of us. Things are so nice and fun right now, we just didn''t want mom to ruin it."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 127 - Tips

    Thinking for quite some time, Ellie took a deep breath and bumped her fist on her desk. "Okay, maybe he was helpless and was forced to attend the date but that doesn''t justify the fact that he lied to me."


    Ava shrugged her shoulders and nodded his head, "Well, lying to you was completely his choice and it has nothing to do with anyone."


    "Ava," Melissa glared at her. This wasn''t the time to point out Sebastian''s mistakes and make Ellie more angry, they had to soothe her so that the couple could get back together.


    Ava chuckled and said, "I was kidding okay." Turning towards Ellie, she continued, "Listen El, I know how exactly you feel and again, I am not saying that the lying part is right but think from his perspective too."


    "Yes, like suppose if your parents forced you to go on a date with another man, would you willingly tell Sebastian about it? Won''t you hesitate or freak out while telling him?" When Ellie did not say anything, Melissa added, "And are you sure you don''t wanna go camping with us? I mean are you willing to leave Sebastian to meet that woman alone another time?"


    When Melissa gestured Ava to help her out, she vigorously nodded her head. "Yes, I agree with Mel on this. We have to take Charlotte with us and Sebastian will be there too and since you won''t be there¡ª" She stopped midway when Ellie frowned and glared at them.


    "L-Like we know Sebastian would never do anything inappropriate but you never know. You can''t take chances and give anyone an open opportunity to come anywhere close to your man." Pausing for a while, Melissa added, "I understand how you are feeling right now but you gotta think wisely babe."


    Ellie frowned deeper and immersed herself in a very deep thought. Though she was still very mad at him for going on a date with some other woman, she understood that he had no other choice but that also did not justify the fact that he had lied to her.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s office


    "So you just walked out? Just like that?" Noah shouted.


    Sebastian sighed and sat down in his chair. "She told me that if I don''t take my ass out of her office then things would turn ugly." Massaging his forehead, he added, "I freaked out okay? I didn"t wanna piss her off more than she already is so I did what I thought was right."


    "You think walking out leaving your angry girlfriend is right? Are you for real Sebastian?" Calvin snapped.


    Sebastian, who had no idea what they were talking about, gave everyone a weird look. "According to what I was taught, we are supposed to leave when someone doesn''t wanna see us."


    "Oh shut it, we are talking about women here not some random men okay?" Owen hissed.


    "I don''t understand?"


    Stopping the two of them who were ready to snap again, Noah answered, "Look Seb , I know all of this is very new to you¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian asked, "What is new?"


    "Relationship, girlfriend, close acquaintance with a woman, intimacy and how you are supposed to deal with them."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he asked, "There is a different way to deal with them?" when all the three of them nodded their heads in unison, Sebastian curiously inquired, "Who came up with that different way?"


    "Men who wanted to lead a healthy and peaceful life," Calvin answered.


    Straightening his back, Sebastian asked, "Okay so what is it? Are there rules? wait, let me write them down somewhere." Taking out his notepad and pen, he prepared himself to learn the new rules.


    "You don''t have to write them down¡ª"


    Cutting Owen off, Noah said, "Seb is very new to this whole concept so let him take the notes for now." Turning towards Sebastian, he added, "But you just rely on this okay? Whatever we are about to tell you are just the basic rules."


    Calvin nodded his head and added, ??Yes, everything depends on your actions and how well you understand the whole concept."


    When Sebastian nodded his head, Noah said, "Okay the first and the most important rule is that if a woman asks you to walk out and leave her alone, you should never ever do that even if she breaks your head into two."


    "So what am I supposed to do?" he curiously asked.


    "You beg her to forgive you," Noah answered.


    "Acting cute helps at times but that depends on how grave your mistake is. For example, acting cute helps if you forget to put down the toilet seat and she is mad at you," Calvin added.


    Before Sebastian could ask anything, Owen interrupted him. "But in your case, acting cute is completely off the list."


    "You will be kicked out if you try to act even CU of cute right now," Noah sighed.


    When Sebastian nodded his head, Noah added, "Rule number two, you should never make your woman wait no matter what the reason is and never get angry or yell at her if she is late."


    "Why?" Sebastian frowned.


    "Because women have the right and a very solid reason to be late unlike us. I mean we don''t have long hair nor do we have to spend hours to decide which dress will make our b.r.e.a.s.t look normal and our butt pointed."


    Calvin nodded his head and said, "I agree with Noah on this, we just have to wear something decent and arrive beforehand or right on time."


    Thinking for quite some time, Sebastian sighed, "I made Ellie wait once and she was so mad at me but i somehow managed to coax her and everything was back to normal."


    "Ooo lucky, I once accidentally arrived late for a date and Mel was so mad, she literally punished me in bed," Noah sighed.


    "Are you complaining about getting punished by your woman in bed?" Owen frowned.


    Grinning from ear to ear, Noah vigorously shook his head. "Pfft of course not, that was the most pleasurable punishment i have ever had in my entire life."


    ....

 Chapter 128 - Angry little woman

    Sebastian''s office


    Looking at the notepad where he had taken all the notes in, Sebastian sighed. Even after getting tips from the experts, he couldn''t gather any courage to go and coax Ellie. The way she had yelled at him was very horrifying, he had never seen her so angry.


    Impatiently looking at the door, he was waiting for her. It was almost lunch time and he knew that she would definitely come over to give him lunch and his special coffee. He had also planned to apologize to her again when she arrived and force her to eat lunch with him.


    Just then someone knocked at the door.


    Thinking that it was Ellie, Sebastian straightened his suit and fixed his hair. "Come in."


    His enthusiasm flushed down when Patricia entered the room along with a packet lunch and a cup of coffee.


    The change in his expressions did not go unnoticed by her. Suppressing her laugh, she placed the lunch and coffee on his desk. "Ellie sent these for you and she has asked you to eat them without saying anything. She also asked me to tell you that she is taking a half day today. She has already submitted her application."


    "What? A half day? Ellie is not in the office?" When Patricia nodded her head, he frowned, "Did she eat anything?"


    "I have no idea but she looked mad when she left."


    Sebastian sighed and massaged his forehead. "It''s all my fault."


    Sitting down on the chair, she nodded her head, "Hmm, if I would''ve been in Ellie''s place, I would''ve killed my husband."


    When Sebastian gave him a weird look, she shrugged her shoulders, "I had a long talk with Ava before she left."


    "I know I messed up Patricia and now I don''t know what to do. Ellie doesn''t want to see me and I feel so alone without her," he sighed.


    "Hey don''t get disheartened okay? She is mad right now but I am sure this won''t last long. She is gonna be okay and if she is still angry, what are flowers for? Trust me, a bouquet of fresh roses is all that a woman needs when she is angry and there is also sweet talks from the man she loves." Getting up, Patricia added, "After a few hours just go and look for her, promise her that you wont lie to her ever again and please live by that."


    "You think that will work? She asked me to take my ass out of her office and I could say by her tone that she was super mad at me."


    She nodded her head and said, "Hmm, she did seem very angry but I don''t think so even she can stay angry at you for a long time. She''ll be okay after sometime."


    After getting Patricia''s assurance, Sebastian felt a bit better. He had no idea whether everything that Patricia said would turn out to be true or not but it still gave him hope.


    ¡­..


    Park


    "Can you believe this? He lied to me," Ellie gritted her teeth and frowned.


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, Markus said, "Firstly, you look very scary when you are angry little woman, really very scary."


    Crossing her arms in the front, she faked a smile. "Thank You so much Markus, This is all I needed to hear right now."


    "Okay I am sorry, I just thought that you should know that you are scaring me and your face is as red as a tomato, which by the way would make a lovely salad. "


    Without waiting for her reply, he sighed, "Alright, let''s get serious now."


    "Finally, thank you so much for not making fun of me anymore."


    "Okay so what are you more angry about? Because he was forced to go on date with a woman who means nothing to him by his over controlling mother or because he lied to you so that you won''t be all upset and angry at him?"


    When Ellie frowned, Markus added, "Now tell me one more thing, would you not stop talking to him if he told you about this earlier? I mean would you be cool about it and not be mad?"


    When she chose to stay quiet, he smiled, "I''ll take your silence as a no." Grabbing her hand, he added, "Look El, I am not saying that he is right and he shouldn''t have lied to you but he didn''t want this to happen. He didn''t want to see you all mad and sad. Even you know that Sebastian isn''t like that."


    Ellie sighed and nodded her head, "I guess you are right, I think I ended up overreacting. I shouldn''t have been so rude to him but I am still mad, I don''t want him to lie to me no matter what happens. Maybe I would''ve shouted at him but at least I would feel satisfied and happy thinking that he is at least honest with me."


    "Hmm, you have all right to be angry and make him realize that what he did was wrong and in the future, no matter what happens, he must not lie to you but you did understand my point right?"


    Ellie nodded her head and said, "I did." Giving him a hug, she smiled, "I am glad that I talked to you."


    Patting her back, Markus chuckled, "I hope I don''t ever have to see the scary angry side of you in the future, it really scared me and I am very sure that it scared Sebastian too."


    Pulling away, she frowned, "He needs to realize his mistake so I am not seeing him today."


    "Did you leave work early today?"


    "I took a half day, I just wanted to be alone for sometime."


    He nodded his head and asked, "Did you eat anything?" When she shook her head, he added, "Let''s have lunch together then."


    "Okay, I''ll just make a phone call and then we can leave." When he nodded his head, she stepped out for a bit and called Patricia.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 129 - Most ultimate weapon

    "Hey Pat? What are you doing?" Ellie asked.


    Patricia chuckled and said, "Yes I gave Seb the lunch and coffee."


    Embarrassed how Patricia saw through her, she awkwardly cleared her throat and inquired, "Did he eat it?"


    "Hmm, that I don''t know."


    "Can you please go and check?"


    "Alright but have you eaten?" Without waiting for her reply, Patricia added, "Because Seb was asking me if you have eaten lunch or not."


    Pausing for a while, she said, "Tell him that I am going out for lunch with a friend and please make sure that he eats okay?"


    "El, if you care so much, why are you pretending to be mad?" Patricia asked.


    Ellie frowned and answered, "Because I am really very mad and someone has to make him realize that what he did was wrong and he shouldn''t lie to me in the future."


    Patricia chuckled and said, "Alright, I''ll make sure that he eats okay? Don''t worry about him and take care."


    "Thanks Pat, you are so nice. I''ll surely treat you with lunch tomorrow."


    "Well, you can make some spaghetti for me."


    Ellie smiled and said, "Okay, I''ll bring it tomorrow."


    After hanging up the call, she sighed and left the park along with Markus.


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s apartment.


    "Dad, I am okay and you don''t have to come."


    Harry frowned and snapped, "How can you say that you''re okay when you sound so low honey? Tell me what happened, did that boss of yours do something again? Is it work pressure? Did he do something inappropriate?"


    Ellie sighed and said, "No dad, Seb did not do anything."


    "Since when did you start calling him Seb?" He frowned.


    "Dad, I really can''t deal with this right now okay? I need some sleep now, I''ll talk to you later."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she added, "Bye dad, I love you and take care."


    Tossing the phone aside, she slumped up on the couch and took a deep breath. After having lunch with Markus, she went out for some grocery shopping.


    Glancing at the watch, she frowned. It was almost half past six and Seb had neither called or messaged her which was making her upset. Couldn''t he call her at least once just to check on her? Was that too much to expect?


    Thinking for quite some time, she grabbed her phone and turned it off.


    "Fine Sebastian Stewart dont call me, I dont need your stupid calls," she yelled before keeping it inside her bag. She then buried her face on the couch and groaned in frustration. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t stop thinking about him.


    Just then the doorbell rang, making her even more frustrated than she already was.


    Reluctantly getting up, she made her way towards the door.


    Looking around, she frowned when she did not see anyone. Thinking that it might be the kids from upstairs fooling around once again, she was about to enter her apartment when she heard a whimper and felt something snuggle against her leg.


    Looking down, she widened her eyes in shock. "Oh my God Boji, what are you doing here?" Picking her up, she hugged her and asked, "What are you doing here honey?"


    Looking around, she asked, "Did dada drop you here and went back without meeting mommy? Anyway, let''s go inside and have fun without dada okay? We don''t need dada¡ª"


    "But dada needs Boji and her mommy." Holding a bouquet in his hand, Sebastian started walking towards Ellie. After thinking for a while, he decided to include Boji, the most ultimate weapon in his plan to make it a hundred percent effective.


    Ignoring him, she scratched Baby''s head and said, "Let''s go inside honey and we will leave the door open so if someone wants to come in, they can."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he followed them inside. He could still say that Ellie was mad at him but no matter what happens, he would definitely do something and make things between them tonight.


    ¡­.


    Inside.


    After placing Boji on the couch, she tied her head into a messy bun before entering the kitchen to get some warm milk for the special guest.


    Placing the flowers on the table, Sebastian gathered all his courage and entered the kitchen.


    Standing right behind her, he stood there thinking how and what he was supposed to say. Wracking his brains, he cleared his throat and said, "Can I get a glass of water?"


    "You know where it is," she bluntly replied.


    Pouting his lips, he poked her arm. "El, I am sorry please don''t be mad anymore." Though it had just been a few hours, her silence was already killing him. He wasn''t liking the whole not talking to him thing.


    As expected when she did not say anything, Sebastian sighed and added, "Please El, talk to me."


    "Talk to you for what? So that you can lie to me again?" She snapped.


    Snapping his fingers, he breathed a sigh of relief. "That''s it, scold me or feel free to thrash me but at least don''t stop talking to me."


    Crossing her arms in the front when she raised her brows at him, he pursed his lips and added,"Or do whatever you want, it''s your call."


    Without saying anything, she walked out of the kitchen and Sebastian who was determined to make things right, followed her behind.


    ¡­..


    Living room


    After giving boji some milk, Ellie was about to walk away again but Sebastian caught her arm. "El please, I know what I did was wrong¡ª"


    Cutting him wrong, she snapped, "Its was very wrong,"


    Vigorously nodding his head, he added, "Yes very very wrong, nothing in the world is as wrong as what I did. Despite all my mistakes, can you please not stop talking to me? I can stand you yelling at me and you have all the right and liberty to thrash me too but I just cannot stand your silence. It''s killing me El, you have no idea how sad and guilty I am."


    ¡­...

 Chapter 130 - I dont wanna know

    Tightening his grip around her hand, Sebastian continued, "I''ll do whatever you want me to without complaining about anything, I''ll always listen to you and I''ll never go on any dates."


    Ellie frowned and inquired, "So are you planning not to take me for an official date ever?"


    "What? No¡ªI mean, you are an obvious exception. I was referring to other women or the dates that my mom might plan for me. I''ll straightaway reject them all and never in my entire life see any other woman other than you." Though he was saying everything in a very rushed manner, he meant each and every word. Why would he ever see other women when he was lucky enough to be with the most amazing woman he had ever met?


    Her heart bloomed and started dancing in joy when he added ''ENTIRE LIFE'' in the whole sentence. Her anger just faded away and her heart warmed up with love for the handsome man standing right in front of her again.


    Trying very hard to suppress her smile, she cleared her throat and faked frown again. "So you are taking me on a date too?" When he nodded his head, she inquired, "When?"


    Before he could say anything, she added, "Fine you don''t have to answer now but make sure that you don''t repeat this again, I don''t want you going on dates with another woman. Maybe you are okay with me going on a date with other men but I am not."


    "Who said that I am okay with you going on dates with other men? You can''t even go on dates with women." Without waiting for her reply, he frowned deeper and inquired, "Are you going on a date? Who is it? Who arranged it for you?"


    Placing her hand on his shoulder, Ellie answered, "No Sebastian, I am not going anywhere. I was just telling you that I am okay with you seeing any other woman but if you really wanna see one then I can''t do anything."


    "I don''t wanna and I promise that I''ll never lie to you ever again."


    "Fine, It''s alright."


    "So we are good right?" when she nodded her head, he sat down on the couch and made her sit on his lap. "Thank God, you have no idea how much I have missed you today.''


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she smiled, "I missed you too but I was too mad to tell you that and I am very sorry for shouting at you in the morning, I shouldn''t have."


    Rubbing the side of her arms, he shook his head, "It''s alright, you can shout at me as much as you want to but dont stop talking to me okay?"


    Running her fingers through his hair, she asked, "Did you have lunch today?"


    "Hmm Patricia brought over the lunch you had sent for me, what about you?"


    "Markus treated me lunch today and we even ended up having his favourite dessert later," she answered, which scared the shit out of Sebastian.


    "M¡ªMarkus? I don''t remember us having a friend with that name." Not liking the name ''Markus'' which Ellie had just mentioned, Sebastian was already having a really bad feeling about it. Wondering who Markus was with whom his woman ended up having lunch and dessert with, he frowned deeper.


    "He is my friend and you have no idea how sweet he is. You know he¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he said, "I don''t know and I don''t think so that I wanna know."


    "Why not? He is very nice, you know what? You should meet him too. I''ll see if I can arrange a meeting."


    Not wanting her to think about Markus, he said, "El, I am hungry."


    Glancing at the watch, she widened her eyes in shock. "It''s already so late, of course you are hungry. I''ll go and prepare something for you and¡ª"


    "Why don''t we go home?" He asked.


    "Home? You mean your place?" When Sebastian nodded his head, she inquired, "You don''t wanna stay here?"


    "It''s not that, I love this place too but¡ª"


    Running her fingers through his collar, she thought for a while and asked, "So you think your place is my home too?"


    He nodded his head and asked, "Why? You don''t? Isn''t that place home-like for you? Do you want to make changes? Do you want to redesign the whole place?"


    Ellie shook her head and smiled, "No, that place is perfect. Alright, let''s go home." Getting up, she added, "I''ll bring the groceries out, we need to take them too otherwise they will go bad."


    "Why don''t you pack a few things that you need and I''ll get the groceries?"


    "Sounds perfect, give me second." When she entered the kitchen, Sebastian made a mental note to find out who Markus was before walking into the kitchen.


    ¡­.


    Inside the car.


    When Ellie kept fiddling with the seat belt, Sebastian asked, "What happened?"


    "Hmm?"


    "Something is bugging you, tell me what it is." After spending so many months with her, he understood her very well. He could tell when she was sad, worried or when something was bothering her.


    "I was just thinking what would''ve happened if I was still angry with you and you went camping with that date woman of yours." Without waiting for his reply, she asked, "Would you spend all your time with her during the whole camping duration?"


    Keeping quiet for a few seconds, he asked, "What makes you think I would go camping if you weren''t accompanying me?"


    "What?"


    "I am just going for the camping because you want to, you do know that I am not interested in these things until and unless you are involved right?" He inquired.


    Placing her hand on her chest, she sighed, "Ahh really? You wouldn''t have gone if I didn''t?"


    "Of course not, I had already made up my mind not to if you were not coming." How could he just leave her behind and go camping with a bunch of people he didn''t really care about?


    ...

 Chapter 131 - Planning

    Without waiting for her reply, he asked, "What made you even think that I would go leaving you behind El?"


    "I don''t know, I am just a stupid woman with stupid thoughts. You have no idea how happy and special I am feeling right now Sebastian. I would have hugged you but you are driving and¡ª"


    Before she could complete her sentence, the car screeched and stopped immediately.


    Looking around, she inquired, "What happened?"


    Shrugging his shoulders, he cleared his throat and answered, "I guess I am not driving anymore."


    Pursing her lips, she suppressed her laugh before unbuckling her belt. "Okay, then I guess I can hug you now.


    Unbuckling his belt, he turned towards her and nodded his head. "If that''s what you want then I am afraid that I cannot say no."


    Leaning towards him, she wrapped her arms around his waist and placed her chin on his shoulder.


    Wrapping his arms around her, he closed her eyes and smiled. He would even stop breathing at the cost of getting a brief hug from her let alone stopping a damn car in the middle of the road.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she asked, "Seb, are you allowed to stop your car here?"


    "I don''t know and I don''t have the time to care."


    Reluctantly pulling away, she said, "We should go home, I think Boji wants to go home."


    "Are you done with the hugging?" When she nodded her head, he asked, "Are you sure you don''t wanna hug me more?"


    Pulling his cheeks, she chuckled, "May be later Mr Stewart, now take me so that I can feed you and our cute little fluffy daughter."


    Sebastian smiled and nodded his head, "Yes ma''am."


    ¡­..


    Next morning.


    Sebastian''s place


    "What?" Ellie frowned.


    Melissa sighed and said, "Chill El, she is not even going to stay here with Sebastian."


    "Yes, I am shifting with Charlotte to Calvin''s place because he happens to have two spare bedrooms for us each," Ava added.


    Thinking for quite some time, Ellie asked, "So is this evil woman going to hang out with us?"


    Ava shrugged her shoulders and answered, "Well, we can''t leave her alone because that will be rude."


    "I agree with Ava on this one and I know that even you would never want anyone to feel left out and picked on," Melissa said.


    Grabbing her coat, Ellie sighed, "Fine but I have issues with this woman okay? She went on a date with Seb before I did and though I have already forgiven Seb for the grievous mistake that he committed, that doesn''t mean I am okay with the whole thing."


    "Use that s.e.xy angry tone in front of my brother and you''ll surely give him a boner," Ava chuckled.


    "Okay, I am going to my place because Seb left his wallet on the table. I''ll be back soon and then we can have lunch together," Ellie informed.


    "You both don''t have work today?" Ava asked.


    Folding Ava''s clothes, Melissa answered, "We took a leave today and it''s a half day anyway so it''s fine."


    ¡­..


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian''s office


    "Markus? Mel never mentioned any friend with that name," Noah said.


    Calvin sighed and asked, "Now what is up with this Markus? And so what if she had lunch with that man and also some dessert? Delay the proposal thing any more and she will soon have babies with that Markus."


    "Dude Cal is right, what on earth are you waiting for?" Noah inquired.


    Sebastian sighed and said, "Not any longer, in fact, I am planning to do it during this camping trip but I am not sure what I have in mind is good or bad."


    Calvin raised his brows and asked, "What do you have in mind?"


    "Yes, quick share," Noah excitedly grinned.


    Cleaning his throat, Sebastian started explaining his perfect proposal plan. "So I was planning to keep this camping trip limited to a few people like us and a few important employees including Patricia."


    "And what about the rest of them?"


    "We can throw a party for them next weekend or treat them dinner somewhere nice later," he answered.


    Calvin nodded his head and agreed, "Okay that sounds nice, continue."


    "So I investigated a few camping places and I found this really amazing spot. It''s a new place which is located somewhere in the outskirts of the city. It''s a three hour drive from here and it has this amazing view which is very romantic. I am also planning to give her this lily shaped necklace which is quite famous these days. So I''ll take her to that particular romantic spot, tell her my honest feelings, propose to her, give her the gift and come back to camp to open a campaign for celebration," he explained.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Calvin asked, "And what if she¨Ctouch wood, rejects the proposal?"


    Sebastian sighed and gloomily said, "Then I''ll drink the entire bottle of campaign, get drunk and beg her to be my girlfriend."


    Grinning from ear to ear, Calvin excitedly got up and gave Sebastian a man hug. "Dude."


    Wiping his non-existent tears away, Noah yelled, "My Seb is all grown up now, I feel so overwhelmed."


    "So you think this plan will work?" He curiously asked.


    "Work? This plan is the best proposal plan ever man. Now all you have to do this make sure that you don''t f.u.c.k this up¡ª"


    Cutting Calvin off, Noah added, "Or pee your pants." When both of them gave him a weird look, he shrugged his shoulders and answered, "I almost peed my pants when I was about to propose Mel, I am just giving him a heads up."


    Ignoring Noah, Calvin continued, "I assume that you don''t have the necklace yet. Though your plan is f.u.c.k.i.n.g awesome but believe me Seb your taste sucks."


    "Well, I agree with Cal. Ava showed me the earrings you bought for her and I am not at all impressed."


    Sebastian frowned and retorted, "Hey, those were unique designs."


    "Pfft yes so unique that even my dog would never wear them," Calvin answered.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 132 - Type C

    Without waiting for his reply, Calvin continued, "Okay here is the plan, since the girls are helping Ava move to my place today so we have plenty of time to go to the store and pick out the perfect necklace for Ellie."


    Glancing at his watch, Noah sighed, "I have this really important meeting in like twenty minutes and since Mel isn''t here, I need to make sure that everything runs smoothly in her absence."


    "I have a meeting too but that will be over before lunch," Calvin informed.


    "You both finish your meeting and let''s meet at Noah''s place later. I need to rush home because I left my wallet at Ellie''s apartment yesterday. She will fetch it for me and bring it to our place," Sebastian explained.


    Grinning from ear to ear, Calvin punched Sebastian''s arm. "Our place huh? Did you guys move in together already?"


    "No we haven''t but we are staying in my place alot lately, it''s nice to have her around you know. I mean, I have never had a woman with whom I shared such a close bond¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Noah chuckled, "That is because you always repelled them."


    "Do you think that you don''t have women drooling all over you Seb? I mean come on you are titled as the most eligible bachelor on those clique magazines. You were just never interested in relationsh.i.p.s or women until Ellie popped in," Noah added.


    Tucking his hands inside his pocket, Sebastian smiled, "I am just glad that I unintentionally waited for El, she is so perfect and she makes me feel so warm and complete. You know how I was never satisfied with everything that was happening in my life but now it feels so nice and I have never been so satisfied and happy about anything else."


    Getting up, Calvin sighed, "Okay, Sebastian Stewart is really in love with Ellie Miller."


    "Dude, you are already head over heels for her man, you are also a lover boy now," Noah chuckled.


    Shrugging his shoulder, Sebastian smiled, "Well, if it''s for Ellie then I don''t mind being called a garbage man let alone being a lover boy."


    "Okay, I am going to leave before I start missing Ava¡ª"


    Cutting Calvin off, Noah asked, "Missing Ava? Why would you miss my sister?"


    Clearing his throat, Calvin tried to refrain his sentence a bit. "Did I just say miss? What I actually wanted to say was that I should leave before I miss Ava''s moving day." Without waiting for their reply, he rushed out as fast as he could to avoid any form of deadly questioning.


    After Calvin left, Noah said, "The police officer called me today, we have a hearing in the court next week. Our lawyer has already handled everything and we just have to show up."


    "What about El? Did you tell me about the whole situation?"


    "Hmm, his main target was you so your presence is important, Ellie doesn''t have to show up." Noah informed.


    Pausing for a while, he asked, "Seb did you tell El about it?"


    "No, the case is already over and we have already handled things here so I don''t think I should stress her out with that news," Sebastian answered.


    Noah nodded his head in agreement. "I did not tell Mel either so it''s okay I guess."


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s place.


    Glancing at her nails, Charlotte sighed, "You see, I may sound rude but I need to say this, my nails are more interesting than the two of you. The two of you are the most boring people I have encountered till date."


    It had been almost twenty minutes since she arrived and neither Ava nor Melissa had initiated any kind of conversation which made the whole environment awkward.


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, Ava decided to start a conversation. "So Charlotte, my mom told me that you are into fashion designing and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Charlotte chuckled, "That woman is your mom?"


    "I am sorry what?" She frowned.


    Placing her hand on her chest, Charlotte gasped, "Oh did I use a very complicated sentence again or was my tone wrong? Anyway let me make it more clear." Pausing got a few seconds, she added, "Your mom is a bitch."


    "Melissa," stretching her hands towards her, Melissa smiled, "I mean my name is Melissa."


    "It''s lovely meeting you Melissa, my name is Charlotte."


    "So what makes you think that Rebecca Stewart is a bitch?" Melissa curiously inquired.


    Taking off her coat, Charlotte sighed, "You know there are two types of women. Type A who act all cute and innocent but they are very bitchy and type B who are just bitchy."


    "Ah so you mean Rebecca falls under the type B?" Melissa asked.


    Shaking her head, Charlotte said, "No honey, Rebecca falls under the type C category."


    "And what is type C?" Ava asked.


    "Born bitches, they are so bitchy, cunning, cruel that even the vibe around them is bitchy. Rebecca Stewart gives me the type C category vibe," Charlotte explained.


    Placing her hand on her chest, Melissa sighed, "I love her already."


    "So you think Rebecca Stewart is a type C bitch too?"


    "Uh-huh, do you even have to ask? I have always hated that woman from my gut," Melissa snapped.


    "Does her cakey makeup bother you too?"


    "Are you talking about the thousand layers of makeup she covers her deep eye pits and bitchy face with?" Melissa asked.


    "Okay, I love you too Melissa."


    Clearing her throat, Ava said, "You both do realize that you are talking about my mom right in front me."


    Charlotte gasped and asked, "I am so sorry, would you like to join us too?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ava sighed, "I would love to but I can''t, so I''ll just close my ears and you both can talk about her as much as you want." No matter how much she hated her mom, there was no way she could join the conversation. Her daughter side would never allow her to do that.


    Covering her ears, Ava slumped on the couch and visually watched the two of them bitch about her mom.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 133 - She is lying

    Sebastian''s place.


    As soon as Ellie stepped out of the elevator, she frowned when she heard loud chattering and chuckling sounds.


    Walking towards the couch, she frowned deeper and pursed her lips when she saw Melissa and Ava happily talking to Charlotte. They had already told her that Charlotte would show up once before Ava takes her to Calvin''s place.


    Initially Ellie wanted to ignore her and stay at her place but she decided not to. She also wanted to see how the woman her man went on a date with looked like.


    "Ah look El is here," Melissa excitedly got up and rushed towards her. Grabbing Ellie''s hand, she muttered, "Oh God you need to meet Charlotte she is so awesome and¡ª" she stopped midway when Ellie glared at her.


    "Mel, do you want to look for a new best friend?" When Melissa shook her head, she added, "Good then stop with this excitement."


    "Okay, so you are Ellie," Charlotte asked before walking towards her. Without waiting for Ellie''s reply, she crossed her arms in the front and chuckled, "No wonder he is so crazy about you."


    "Who are you talking about?" Ellie inquired.


    "Sebastian, oh so you have many admirers? Ah so this is why he was panicking and acting weird," Charlotte added.


    "You are talking about Sebastian? He panicked?" When she nodded her head, Ellie asked, "Why and when?"


    Storming her feet on the ground, Charlotte sighed, "Ahh I feel like yawning whenever I think about that day but damn, he is a very boring guy. I mean if you like him too, why?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie curiously inquired, "Wait, how do you know me in the first place? Did Sebastian tell you about me?" The initial jealous-anger feeling that was brewing in her heart was completely overshadowed with curiosity and eagerness to know what had exactly happened. She wanted to know what Sebastian had told Charlotte about her.


    "Tell me about you? Honey, everything was about you. In fact, that guy was so worried that you don''t like him so I had to tell him the whole bag theory and¡ª" Stopping midway, she groaned in frustration. "I even got a pimple after that intense cafe talk you know, it was very stressful."


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ava chuckled, "Well, only my brother can manage to turn a date into a stressful day."


    Bursting into laughter, Charlotte said, "Date? You are calling that fifteen minutes meeting a date? I spend more time with my masseuse, so calling that short meeting a date is so unfair for real dates."


    When Ellie smiled, Melissa hooked her arms around her shoulders. "You like her don''t you?"


    "So Ellie, how did he propose to you?"


    Scratching her forehead, Ellie answered, "He hasn''t proposed yet but¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Charlotte screamed, "What? Why not? I mean the way he just ran out of the cafe that day, I thought he would definitely tell you how insane he is about you."


    "He did not propose but he did come to Seattle to bring me back. He told me that he is missing me and I need to tag along with him back here," Ellie smiled. Learning that Sebastian was talking about her through the so-called date made her feel so special. The curiosity and eagerness in her heart was now replaced with love and adoration for the cute and handsome man she was so madly in love with.


    Placing her hand on her chest, Charlotte gasped, "Look at you all blushing, you really like him don''t you?" Without waiting for her reply, she added, "What did you see in him that made you like him? I mean if you like him for that handsome face then I can understand but¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ellie frowned, "Wait a minute, are you trying to say that there is nothing to like about Sebastian?"


    "Well, let''s just say he isn''t my type and¡ª"


    Cutting her off again, Ellie snapped, "What? Cute is not your type? Handsome, loving, caring, sweet, kind hearted is your type? Gentle, polite, decent is not your type? How can any normal woman not fall for a perfect man like him?"


    "Ah so you want me to fall for him too?" Charlotte inquired.


    Ellie cleared her throat and said, "That is not what I meant, I am just trying to tell you that Sebastian is not boring, he is fun loving and yes, I love him."


    Ava gasped and squealed in excitement, "Ahhh this is so exciting, I thought you just like him but¡ª" giving Ellie an overexcited hug, she added, "You are going to be my sister-in-law."


    "Ahh I am there too," Melissa squeezed herself in.


    Charlotte sighed and said, "I don''t know what exactly this is about but I wanna join too."


    ¡­..


    Thirty minutes later.


    When Sebastian arrived home, he widened his eyes in shock when he saw Ellie and Charlotte having a very serious conversation while Melissa and Ava had the most awkward expressions on.


    He had called Ellie when he left office and he could easily make out that something wasn''t right. So he rushed home to find out what had happened.


    Without wasting any time, he rushed towards Ellie but he stopped midway when Charlotte got up and smiled at him.


    "Ah there you are honey, I was just telling Ellie and others how fun our date was." Without waiting for his reply, she grabbed his tie and pulled him towards her. "I told them about her after date fun too and how I had the most wonderful moment¡ª"


    Widening his eyes in shock, he took several steps back and yelled in a very shrill voice, "What the hell are you talking about?"


    "It''s alright, we don''t have to pretend or meet in private anymore because everyone knows about us and our relationship now," she added before taking a step towards him but before she could go anywhere near him, Sebastian rushed towards Ellie.


    Standing right behind her, he pointed towards Charlotte and snapped, "She is lying."


    ¡­..


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:-


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 Chapter 134 - Petty

    Without waiting for anyone''s reply, he defended himself. "And what wonderful moment? I didn''t even have the m of moment with her."


    Grabbing Ellie''s arm, he added, "El don''t listen to her, she is a psychopath who is overly obsessed with fashion."


    Pointing towards Charlotte, he frowned, "And you, didn''t you say that I am boring? So why are you pretending as if we have something between us."


    He was confused, mad, worried, anxious and also super scared. He had no idea why Charlotte was suddenly pretending to be all touchy with him but more than anything, he was super scared that Ellie would misinterpret things and leave him before he could even execute his whole proposal plan.


    Pursing her lips, Ellie looked at him and tried to say something but ended up laughing out loud. "I am sorry guys, I cannot."


    "Oh damn, look at his face," Melissa said before bursting into laughter.


    Charlotte chuckled and added, "Ah so he is also a cry baby."


    Looking at the four women who were busy laughing, Sebastian frowned. "What the hell is happening here?"


    Rubbing his arm, Ellie explained, "We were just messing around with you Seb,"


    "It was Ava''s idea," Charlotte added.


    Ava rolled her eyes and chuckled, "Oh come on, you guys loved it."


    Placing his hand on his chest, he breathed a sigh of relief. "That was a really bad joke people, you almost gave me a heart attack."


    Tilting her head, Charlotte asked, "What? You thought Ellie would leave you just because I say a few things? You think she is that petty?"


    Placing her hand on her waist, Ellie raised her brows, "You think that I am petty?"


    Sebastian widened his eyes in shock and vigorously shook his head. "What? No I¡ª"


    "You guys, the same look again." Holding her stomach, Ava crashed on the couch.


    Ellie chuckled and helplessly shook her head. "Okay girls, we have to officially stop now. Look, we are scaring Seb."


    Glancing at her watch, Melissa sighed, "Ahh it''s almost lunch time and we haven''t even dropped Ava and Charlotte at Calvin''s."


    "Let''s do something, you people go to Calvin''s place because I have to urgently meet someone in like fifteen minutes. I''ll catch up with you guys at the restaurant in an hour." Turning towards Sebastian, Ellie asked, "Are you off work already? Do you wanna accompany us for lunch too?"


    "Hmm no, I have plans with the guys."


    "What kind of plan?" Melissa inquired.


    Hesitating for a while, he answered, "We are going shopping."


    Ava chuckled and said, "Shopping? You guys? Are you serious? Because from what I know, uncle Grizzard still buys your clothes and the only thing you pick yourself is your underwear."


    Sebastian frowned and gritted his teeth, "You talk too much."


    Melissa chuckled and added, "Noah doesn''t even pick his own underwear, I have to do that for him."


    Pouting her lips, Charlotte sighed, "This makes me wonder if your underwear is as boring as your clothes."


    Pursing her lips, Ellie tried to stop her giggles. The sudden underwear talk was totally unexpected.


    Taking a deep breath, Sebastian explained, "Calvin and Owen want to buy a few things so Noah and I decided that we would accompany them and pick a few things too."


    Melissa frowned and inquired, "So you mean Naoh is shopping and is picking new underwears too?" When Sebastian nodded his head, she added, "Well, ask him to pick a new girlfriend at the mall too. Let''s go girls, I feel very hungry when I am angry."


    Picking up one of the boxes, Ava chuckled, "Seems like someone is not getting a chance to hump and pump tonight."


    After everyone left, Sebastian inquired, "Where is Boji?"


    "June picked her up after you left for office, she wants to raise one too so she wanted to make sure if she is okay with them."


    Grabbing her hand, he added, "El we don''t have to be around Charlotte if you don''t like it okay? She is just here with us until her uncle comes back but that doesn''t mean we have hangout with her. I just don''t want you to do something you are not comfortable with."


    "Are you kidding me? I love her, she is different and nothing like I had thought she would be."


    "Oh that is nice then." Keeping quiet for quite some time, he sheepishly asked, "So whom are you meeting?"


    "A friend."


    "So by any chance, is this friend Markus?" When Ellie nodded her head, he asked, "So it''s just the two of you?"


    Looking at him, she pouted her lips and inched closer. Fixing his tie, she said, "I can sense your uneasiness with Markus."


    "What? I-I am not uneasy, why would I be uneasy? It''s not like there is something going on between the two of you, right?"


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she explained, "Firstly it''s not a date, just an informal meeting. Secondly, if I ever go on a date, I will definitely let you know beforehand so that you can drop me off at my date spot."


    "Drop you? What makes you think that I will? And why are we even having this conversation? I am not letting you go on a date or whatever with any guy okay? So just take it off your head and why do you even wanna go on dates with any other when¡ª"


    When he stopped midway, she asked, "When?"


    Pouting his lips, he answered, "When you have me."


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, Ellie blushed and pulled away. "I have kept your wallet on the table, eat your lunch no matter where you are okay? I''ll pick up Boji and come home straight away."


    Without waiting for his reply, she rushed out of the apartment.


    ¡­..


    Shopping Mall.


    "Woah dude, Cal told me that you are gonna finally propose," Owen grinned but his huge grin faded away when Sebastian glared at him.


    Wrapping his arms around Owen''s shoulder, Calvin chuckled, "He is still mad at you for the whole exposing him in front of Ellie thing."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 135 - Goofing

    Giving Sebastian a weak smile, Owen explained, "I know you are angry but no one told me that it was supposed to be a secret."


    "Ellie did not talk to me for eight hours, she had lunch with some other guy and she didn''t even receive my calls. If not for Boji''s cuteness and of course my true love for her, she would''ve left me for real because of you." Without waiting for his reply, Sebastian snapped again, "How would you feel if I tell June that a month before you started dating her, you actually went on a romantic date with another woman?"


    "Woah that woman had really huge boobies," Noah chuckled.


    Calvin sighed and nodded his head, "And did you notice how she was trying to press it against Owen?"


    "I know right? I wonder why they did not end up having s.e.x together?" Noah asked.


    Owen gasped and gritted his teeth. "Hey, that was a business dinner and her father was supposed to accompany too but he backed out and sent his daughter only. You guys know that I was not at all interested in her because I love June, I have always loved June."


    "Well, June doesnt know that, does she?" Sebastian inquired.


    Puffing his cheeks, Owen complained, "Hey, how can you do that? Do you want me to be all sad and single again? I am an orphan, remember? I don''t even have a proper family like you guys."


    Smacking his head, Calvin rolled his eyes. "For Pete''s sake Owen stop playing the orphan card, it''s old now."


    Grinning from ear to ear, Owen said, "But you people still buy it, don''t you?"


    "You do know that dad is going to thrash you if he learns that you are saying you don''t have a proper family right?" Noah asked.


    Shrugging his shoulders, Owen said, "Yeah but it''s not like anyone will tell him right?"


    Ignoring Owen, the three men walked away. "Hey , don''t leave me like that."


    ¡­..


    Rise & Shine Jewellery Store


    "Guess who called me today?" Noah asked.


    "Unless it''s the president himself, don''t expect any reaction from me," Calvin chuckled.


    Pretending to set his hair and sticking his tongue out, Noah imitated someone.


    Scrunching his face, Owen pretended to puke. "You are joking right?"


    When Noah shook his head, Calvin sighed, "Why did he call you again?"


    "He wants to hang out with us like old times and he was especially asking for Seb," Noah explained.


    Calvin shrugged his shoulders and said, "Well I am not trying to be offensive but guy isn''t that bad you know. I mean, at least he isn''t cruel or scheamy. Yeah I know he is a bit irritating at times¡ª"


    Cutting Calvin off, Sebastian frowned, "At times? He is irritating all the time and that guy is a flirt. I haven''t seen that many women in real life than the number of women he has hooked up with in college."


    "Hey, college life is a very vulnerable phase and people are bound to be emotionally unstable," Noah snapped to which Calvin energetically agreed.


    "Everyone has a phase in life where they are vulnerable and tend to do outrageous things but things change and people change. Like look at me, I haven''t hooked up with anyone since so many months. I am a changed and responsible man now¡ª" When Noah and Sebastian gave him a weird look, Calving pinched Owen''s waist.


    "Ouch¡ª" Clearing his throat, Owen vigorously nodded his head. "Calvin is a very changed man now, he has officially stopped goofing around and is looking for a serious relationship."


    Pursing his lips, Sebastian sighed, "Noah was a goofer when we were in college and after that too but he changed after meeting Melissa, he is a man with principles and is all ready to start a family of his own. Owen was never really a flirt and he is now all settled with June. I was as boring as a fungi all my life but after meeting Ellie, I wish to change but you on the other hand¡ª"


    Cutting Sebastian off, Calvin fornwed, "So you think I can never change?"


    Patting his shoulder, Noah sighed, "Hard to say pal, your record hasn''t been so promising."


    "Hey come on you guys, don''t be so mean to our Calvin. The guy had changed okay? He isn''t the usual playboy anymore," Owen defended his friend.


    Noah chuckled and raised both his hands in the air. "Alright, it''s good if you have changed."


    "Why are we even discussing this? It''s Calvin''s life, he can do whatever he wants with it and it''s not like you are dating my sister or anything so why should we even think or worry about it?" Sebastian asked.


    "Well well well, look who we have here?" Pausing for a while, the man added, "It''s my college mates."


    Slapping his forehead, Noah sighed, "Oh my God."


    Walking towards them, the man flashed a smile at Sebastian. "Look at you, you are as grumpy and boring as I remember."


    Scrunching face, Sebastian snapped, "And you are as irritating as I remember."


    Smacking his arm, the man chuckled, "Oh come on Seb, I know you love me."


    "You wish," Sebastian muttered before gesturing Noah to get rid of the person who irritated him the most.


    "Brandon, what a pleasant surprise." Giving him a hug, Noah inquired, "What are you doing here?"


    "Ahh I was here to do some shopping, one of the stores informed me that the new collection is on display so I rushed over to take a look but who would''ve thought that I''ll bump into my old mates," Brandon excitedly exclaimed.


    Tucking his hands inside his pocket, Owen said, "Yeah we are shopping too."


    Raising his brows, Brandon asked, "Shopping? Do you guys even know how to shop? I mean no offence but you people should let me tag along so that I can help you people choose the best."


    "No we¡ª"


    Cutting Sebastian off, Calvin said, "We don''t mind if you have time."


    "You kidding me? You people are my mates, I have all the time in the universe for you all but I have a meeting at five so I need to leave then."


    ¡­...


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:-


    is hosting a win-win event from 1st to 30th September which will benefit the readers as well as the author.


    The details will be out later.


    Trapped in Her Heart will be taking part in this event and I am sure that my beloved readers will support me as always. To be a part of the event, the authors has to update at least 1500 words daily without fail.


    The prizes will be given out according to the number of privilege readers a book will have at the end of the event.


    I would like request those who can, to buy at least the first privilege tier which is worth 1 coin next month. :)


    I have decreased the second privilege tiers price from 30 coins to 15 coins (It''s more affordable now) for the next month.


    [Note: There is no pressure but if you can, please buy at least the first privilege tier]

 Chapter 136 - Sealed product

    Calvin smiled and nodded his head, "We just need to pick up a couple of things and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian snapped, "Calvin, can I talk to you in private?" Without waiting for his reply, he dragged him to a corner and smacked his head.


    "Ouch, what the hell is wrong with you? That hurts," Calvin hissed.


    Gritting his teeth, Sebastian said, "Why the hell did you ask Brandon to join us? You know that I hate this guy but you¡ª"


    "Look Seb I know Brandon is annoying at times but let''s face the fact, the guy has a really good taste."


    Nodding his head, Noah added, "I actually agree with Cal on this one, an extra help from someone we know won''t harm right?"


    "I am not giving El anything of his choice okay? He will prolly jinx it and ruin my soon to start relationship," Sebastian frowned.


    Placing his hand on Sebastian''s shoulder, Calvin tried to explain his point. "Look Seb, even though I am not that fond of Brandon but he isn''t that bad. Who do you think used to help me choose all those gifts for my girlfriends back in high school and college?"


    Jerking his hand off, Sebastian snapped, "Brandon? You took help from Brandon? Why on earth would you do that?"


    Scratching his forehead, Noah said, "Well, he had helped me pick a ring and dress for Mel and she loved it." Placing his hand on his chest, he smiled, "Best night ever."


    "Look Seb, our main priority right now is to get the perfect proposal gift for Ellie. We need to keep our personal affairs and problems aside so that everything turns out to be superb," Calvin explained.


    Sebastian frowned and thought for a while, he wanted everything to be perfect but he also did not want Brandon to be involved in any way. But making the proposal a perfect one was much more important and it completely overshadowed his low-key hatred for Brandon. "Fine but after that, I don''t wanna see his face ever again."


    Just then Owen arrived and said, "Hmm guys, I was thinking that we should invite Brandon for the camping trip."


    "And why should we do that?" When Owen did not say anything, Sebastian frowned, "Owen, why should we invite Brandon?"


    Gilping ij nervousness, Owen shielded himself behind Noah. "Because I think I already invited him on our behalf."


    "You what?" he shouted.


    "Woah, you guys are so loud," Brandon sighed and helplessly shook his head. "So from what I managed to hear, "Sebastian doesn''t want me to accompany you guys but you three dont have a problem right?"


    When Owen, Noah and Clavin nodded their heads, he added, "Then the problem is solved, I am accompanying you guys." Turning towards Sebastian, he continued, "And you, I don''t know what problem you have with me. I mean, you are clearly the handsome one and now you also have a woman you love so what the hell is your problem?"


    Before Sebastian could say anything, Brandon placed his hand on his shoulder. "Look I know you have always been jealous of my style but it''s not my fault Seb, I mean, what can I do if I have a very good sense of fashion and other stuff? How can you hate me for something I have no control over?"


    Scrunching his face, Sebastian slapped his hands away and shrugged his shoulders, "Don''t touch me in the future."


    "Geez, does that turn you on?" Brandon asked.


    Gritting his teeth, Sebastian balled his hand into a fist before walking out.


    Pursing his lips, Noah tried very hard to suppress his laugh. Only if he could click a picture of Sebastian and show it to everyone later.


    "Dude, what did I do?" Brandon inquired.


    Patting his shoulder, Calvin said, "Don''t mind him, he is super stressed with the whole proposal thing."


    ....


    Restaurant


    "I don''t understand, why are you so hyped up? It''s just shopping¡ª"


    Cutting Ellie off, Melissa frowned, "Hyped up? Do you even understand the grief of the entire situation?''


    "What grief? It''s just a casual shopping trip with friends and it''s not like Noah is cheating on you."


    Taking a sip of her drink, Charlotte said, "He shop cheated on her and trust me honey, that is the worst."


    "I always buy all his clothes El, from his shirts to his underwear and Noah never does anything without telling me but today, he actually went shopping without me,"Melissa snapped.


    Ellie sighed and helplessly shook her head. "I don''t understand what is there to fuss about, everything seems so normal."


    "When Seb will go shopping without you, you''ll understand how it feels."


    "Sebastian reminds me, I really don''t understand why he hasn''t proposed to you yet?" Charlotte inquired.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie said, "I don''t know, maybe he is waiting for the right time."


    "Or maybe he has no intention of proposing to you because he thinks that there is no need for that since you both are already you know, living together." Pausing for a while, Melissa added, "Maybe you should make him realize that it''s important to make this relationship official."


    "Hmm I agree with Mel on this," Ava added.


    Running her fingers through the rim of the class, Ellie explained, "Well, we aren''t living together and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Melissa snapped, "Oh please, you are living with Sebastian for days now and it''s like you two have moved in together."


    "I am telling you girl, you are making things way too easy for the guy. So easy that now he has started thinking that a proposal is not needed at all." When Ellie gave her a weird look, Charlotte rolled her eyes. "Oh come on, have you never been in a relationship before?"


    "No, this is actually her first relationship. Well, she did have a crush on this guy called Craig but that was highschool so I don''t think that counts," Melissa explained.


    "What about flings? Tell me you have had flings before?" When Ellie shook her head, Charlotte widened her eyes in shock and gasped, "Oh my God you are a sealed product."


    ¡­

 Chapter 137 - Annabelle

    Melissa chuckled and said, "You make it sound so¡ª"


    "Truthful? Yeah, because it is the damn truth and how? Why? For what good reason?" Charlotte curiously inquired.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie answered, "Well I don''t know, maybe I was waiting for someone special."


    Giving her a weird look, Charlotte snapped, "Which century are you living in? Okay maybe you are one of those sentimental women who believe in giving your everything to a man but trust me honey, I was like that once too and it brings nothing but misery."


    "What do you mean?" Ava asked.


    "Ahh I smell a nice gossip here," Melissa chuckled.


    Taking another sip from her drink, Charlotte explained, "Okay so there was a time when I was innocent and a woman with innocent principles who believed in fairy tale kind of a love story, in short, I was naive and stupid."


    Pausing for a while, she added, "Anyway, there was this handsome man who I fell in love with and he was first everything. Things were going fine and I was so madly in love with him that I did everything for him. But after a year, I found that he was cheating on me and when I confronted him about it, he told me that he was only toying me. He also told me that he never loved me and I was stupid to even think he was serious about me."


    Placing her hand on her chest, Melissa sighed, "Oh God, I am so sorry Char."


    "Pfft sorry? You should feel sorry for him girl." When they gave him a weird look, Charlotte explained, "You see honey he toyed me, he treated me like a damn toy so I decided to be Annabelle. "


    "He was just a common man and let''s face the fact that my uncle is rich and powerful. So I pretended to cry in front of my uncle and he melted¡ª" Snapping her fingers, she added, "Like this."


    "Wow, I think I like you even more now," Ava chuckled.


    "With only a few drops of teeny tiny tears, I destroyed his entire career in a few seconds. He thought he could mess with me? Huh, men I tell you, they are dumb"


    "If someone treats you like a toy, be Annabelle." Melissa repeated it before excitedly clapping her hands.


    "How did you get over it?" Ellie inquired.


    "Well, not gonna lie but it wasn''t that easy and I had my struggles. Shopping was my ultimate saviour though. I also went on solo trips, had flings with some random men and trust me, if you aren''t looking for anything serious then flings are the best option."


    Placing her hand on hers, Ellie smiled, "You are really very brave Charlotte."


    "Not really, I mean I have had sleepless nights and I did cry until my eyes were all red and puffy but that''s it. I think I have had enough from this serious relationship you know, I will just focus on flings at the moment." Pausing for a while, Charlotte continued, "Anyway, let''s get back to your serious problem."


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie said, "There is no problem, we are doing just fine."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ava asked, "Okay, El who is Seb to you? What kind of relationship do you and Seb share?"


    Opening and closing her mouth at the same time, Ellie frowned. She had no idea how she was supposed to describe their relationship. They were too close to be friends and they were not in a relationship yet so everything was way too complicated and hard to describe.


    "Hard to describe?" Charlotte asked.


    "No, it''s just a bit unclear right now but I am sure that we will definitely find a way out." Ellie was sure they would definitely find a way out very soon. She knew that he would never abandon her or leave her alone, she could easily trust Sebastian for everything.


    "Well, you have to do something and make it clear El."


    "I agree with Mel, you have to do something so that he realizes it''s high time to make a move and give this relationship an official name," Ava explained.


    Thinking for quite some time, Ellie inquired, "Okay but how?"


    "You can start acting a bit aloof, I mean start maintaining a certain distance with him. This will not only make him realize your importance but it will also urge him to quicken things up," Charlotte suggested.


    .....


    Shopping mall


    Rise & Shine Jewellery shop


    "Nope, show me something more elegant but simple at the same time," Brandon said.


    The attendant nodded his head and explained, "We have a new collection but you will have to wait for a bit before I bring it out sir."


    "No problem, take all the time you need." After the attendant left, Brandon sighed, "This is gonna take long."


    Brushing his fingers against a necklace, Noah asked, "What is wrong with this one?"


    "It''s very gaudy and I don''t think so it will suit Ellie¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian snapped, "Firstly, anything will look good on her because she is beautiful. Secondly, how can you say that this will not suit her?"


    "Well with all due respect, I am not judging her beauty and neither have I ever seen her but she is someone who managed to capture your heart so I am sure that she is very unique. I don''t think that she likes gaudy things, she is more on the simple and elegant side."


    Without waiting for her reply, he hooked his arms around Sebastian''s neck and continued, "Okay, can you visualize Ellie in this gaudy necklace? I mean you know her better than me obviously so do you think this thing suits her taste?"


    Looking at the necklace, Sebastian frowned. Brandon was right, this necklace was too gaudy for Ellie and way out of her taste and preference.


    Patting his shoulder, Brandon sighed, "See that mate, I told you. Anyway, I am sure we will find something perfect for her."


    ...

 Chapter 138 - Acting aloof

    Leaning towards Sebastian, Noah whispered, "This is why we insisted on letting him help us, he knows these stuff."


    Pausing for a while, Sebastian asked, "Do you think Ellie will say yes? Do you think she likes me the way Melissa likes you?"


    Hooking his arms around his neck, Noah said, "Dude, of course she does. I mean, can''t you say by the way she looks at you and the way she cares for you? Ellie is staying with you and I have seen her take care of you, she definitely feels the same for you and you''re not friendzoned at all."


    Sebastian nodded his head and added, "I know and I feel it too but I''m just scared." he was very scared that Ellie would reject his proposal and things would turn awkward between them.


    "What? Are you insane? Why would she turn you down when she clearly likes you too?" Owen shoved his nose in the conversation which he had been sneakily eavesdropping.


    "I don''t know, I am just scared and with Boji being involved, I just can''t stop thinking what will happen to that innocent soul if things do not go as planned." Massaging his forehead, Sebastian sighed, "I feel so stressed now."


    "Dude, you are just being paranoid and you are super stressed too because this is the first time you are proposing a woman," Noah explained.


    Owen nodded his head and added, "I agree with Noah, this is just performance pressure and nothing else.''


    When Sebastian kept frowning, Noah placed his hands on his shoulder. "Listen to me brother, I understand the stress and pressure you are going through but this is completely normal because everyone feels that way. Don''t forget that you are Sebastian Stewart and you never fail in anything."


    "Yes, just be confident and have faith in your love man, I am sure you''ll succeed in this," Owen also encouraged Sebastian.


    While the three men were busy talking, Calvin slowly slipped out to the other side of the store and started looking for a pair of earrings or pendant for his beautiful girlfriend. Ava would be moving in with him starting today so he wanted to welcome her home with a nice housewarming gift. Though he knew that it was temporary and Charlotte would also stay with them, it was still a major step for their relationship.


    Asking the attendant to show him the butterfly shaped necklace and earrings, he was busy examining it when someone approached.


    "Are you sure you wanna go with the butterfly one? I mean they are good but not something you would want to give your girlfriend."


    Turning towards Brandon, Calvin sighed, "I just want something simple."


    "Simple huh?" screening his eyes through the displayed sets, Brandon Inquired, "Anniversary or just a random gift?"


    "Just random."


    "Hmmm since when did you start giving your flings random gifts?"


    Calvin frowned and snapped, "First, she is not a fling. In fact, she was never a fling, I am very serious about her and we are happily dating."


    Raising his brows, Brandon said, "Ahh so it is true that you stopped flinging, so who is that fantastic amazing girl who managed to get you out of the flinging path?"


    "Let''s just say that she is someone very special. Now, will you help me pick one before the guys come over and start teasing me?"


    Pointing towards a pendant, Brandon asked the attendant to take it out. Examining it for quite some time, he smiled, "This is perfect, here check this out mate."


    Taking the pendant from his hand, Calvin smiled, "This is beautiful."


    It was a two carat diamond halo pendant with a thin platinum mariner chain, it had a very eye-catching yet elegant look which was perfect for Ava.


    Grinning from ear to ear, Brandon excitedly said, "See, I don''t know who she is and how she looks but this will look perfect on her."


    "Yes it definitely will, I''ll go and complete the precedures." Without waiting for his reply, Calvi rushed towards the billing counter.


    "And I should go and help my other mate," Brandon murmured.


    ...


    Sebastian''s place


    Tightening his grip around the bag, Sebastian slowly made his way towards his room, making sure that Ellie wasn''t anywhere to be seen.


    After looking through a number of designs, he finally managed to find the perfect proposal gift for Ellie but now he had to make sure that she doesn''t find it. He didn''t want his wonderful proposal surprise to be ruined.


    After securely placing the gift inside his locker, he closed the wardrobe and sighed in relief.


    "When did you come back?" Ellie inquired before approaching him.


    Startled by her sudden appearance, Sebastian shuttered, "J-Just now."


    "I was in the kitchen but I did not notice you."


    "I-I actually saw you but I didn''t want to disturb you so I came up quietly," he explained.


    Picking up the shopping bag from the couch, she inquired, "What did you buy?"


    "Hmm nothing much, a few things to wear during the camping trip." After the jewellery shopping, they still had some time left so Brandon insisted on doing some shopping. He helped everyone pick out clothes which were suitable for the camping trip.


    "Wow, I didn''t know you had such a nice taste in clothes Seb, this is amazing."


    Clearing his throat, he nodded his head, "I happen to know a thing or two."


    Folding the clothes, she places them on the couch. "I have already prepared dinner for you and there are some sandwiches for breakfast. You don''t have to feed Boji, just take her out for a walk later and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he frowned, "Why are you telling me this?" Without waiting for her reply, he added, "We are having dinner together right?"


    "Ah right about that, I am about to leave for home and I''ll see you tomorrow in the office."


    "What? Home? But why?" he frowned deeper.


    Shrugging her shoulders, she asked, "I¡ªI can''t go home?"


    "But¡ª" stopping midway, Sebastian scrunched his brows and gave her a very cute sad expression which almost broke Ellie''s acting aloof act.


    ¡­...


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:-


    is hosting a win-win event from 1st to 30th September which will benefit the readers as well as the author.


    The details will be out later.


    Trapped in Her Heart will be taking part in this event and I am sure that my beloved readers will support me as always. To be a part of the event, the authors has to update at least 1500 words daily without fail during the entire span of the event.


    The prizes will be given out according to the number of privilege readers a book will have at the end of the event.


    I would like request those who can, to buy at least the first privilege tier which is worth 1 coin next month. :)


    I have decreased the second privilege tiers price from 30 coins to 15 coins (It''s more affordable now) for the next month.


    [Note: There is no pressure but if you can, please buy at least the first privilege tier] ^_^

 Chapter 139 - Insecure

    After talking to the girls, Ellie decided to take their advice of acting aloof and making Sebastian realize that it was time to take their relationship to the next level. She had made up her mind to follow all the instructions that Charlotte, Ava and Melissa had given her but Sebastian''s cute face was making her forget everything and forcing her chicken out.


    Grabbing her hand, he asked, "What happened El? Are you angry? Did I do something wrong? Is it because I went out with the guys?" He knew that she would never leave him alone if something wasn''t wrong.


    "Nothing happened, I just want to stay alone for a few days¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he said, "But we are going camping day after tomorrow."


    "Right so I wanna stay alone until then." Without waiting for his reply, she turned around and was about to leave when Sebastian hugged her from behind.


    Tightening his grip around her waist, he placed his chin on her shoulder and sighed, "Please don''t go, I don''t like eating alone and I also feel lonely when you''re not there."


    When she did not say anything, he added, "El, please stay."


    The last string of trying to act aloof disappeared and her heart melted down with all the Sebastian love and cuteness. How could she ever act aloof and ignore such an adorable man?


    Turning towards him, she sighed and apologized, "I am sorry for acting so stupidly, I don''t know what I am trying to do."


    "What happened? Did I do something wrong?" he asked.


    She shook her head and answered, "No, it was just this stupid thing that the girls adviced me to do. I-I should seriously stop listening to their weird ideas."


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, he adjusted her in his lap. "El is something bothering you?" Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he asked, "If you don''t tell me, how will we solve this thing?"


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she sighed, "Hmm we were having lunch today and we suddenly started talking about you know, us. They asked me why we still haven''t¡ª" Stopping midway, she added, "Well anyway, so I told them that we are taking our time and we also don''t want to rush things but they kept insisting that you are probably taking things for granted and you have no interest in¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he inquired, "Do you think that way too?" When she shook her head, he added, "Am I making you feel insecure and do you feel that our relationship and the bond that we share will never lead to something special?"


    She shook her head and said, "No you are not."


    "Then what are you so worried about? You are happy and so am I, that is what matters right?" Pausing for a while, he continued, "People will say different kinds of things El but what you and I think is all that happens. We know where we are and how we feel about each other and that is more than enough, why do we have to listen to what others have to say?"


    Ellie sighed and nodded her head in agreement. "You are right, I don''t know what I was even trying to do."


    "What did they exactly ask you to do?" he inquired.


    Running her fingers through his neck tie, she answered, "They asked me to act aloof and ignore you for sometime."


    Sebastian frowned and snapped, "What kind of an idiotic idea is this? Are they trying to give me a heart attack? Is this the reason why you wanted to leave?"


    She sighed and nodded her head, "Hmm, I was trying to act aloof."


    Tightening his grip around her, he scrunched his brows, "Please don''t do that again, you seriously scared the shit out of me and for the people who gave you that stupid advice, I''ll deal with them tomorrow." How could he let them go without teaching them a lesson or at least warning them for manipulating his innocent Ellie?


    She was about to say something when someone called out Sebastian.


    "Sebastian Stewart, get you lazy ass down here right now," Noah yelled.


    Ellie frowned and asked, "Isn''t that Noah?"


    "Yeah, let''s go down and see what happened."


    ...


    Living room


    As soon as Ellie and Sebastian came down, Noah snapped, "You¡ªhow could you do this to me?"


    Sebastian frowned and asked, "What? What did I do?"


    "What did you tell Melissa?"


    Sebastian thought for a while before he realized what Noah was exactly talking about. "Oh, did I not tell you?"


    "Tell me what?" Noah yelled.


    "Hmm Mel is very angry and has asked you to look for a new girlfriend as well while you are shopping," Sebastian replied.


    Gritting his teeth, Noah balled his hand into a fist. "And you are telling me this now? Why the f.u.c.k didn''t you tell me this earlier?"


    "It slipped my mind."


    Sebastian''s casual reply made Noah more angry and frustrated than he already was. "My relationship almost slipped and tripped because of this. Do you have any idea how angry Mel is because I did not call her despite knowing that she is mad at you? She is completely ignoring my presence." After arriving home, Melissa kept ignoring him before accusing him for something that he had no idea about.


    "I see." Pausing for a while, Sebastian inquired, "Since it''s clearly your fault, why are you screaming at me in my apartment and ruining our lovely dinner plan? You are scaring Boji and making everyone feel awkward. Who asked you not to call your angry girlfriend for the entire day?"


    Closing his eyes, Noah took a deep breath to calm himself down. "Did you tell me that Mel was mad at me?"


    Shrugging his shoulder, Sebastian answered, "No,"


    "Then how on earth am I supposed to know that she is mad at me?" Noah yelled.


    ''Your girlfriend, you should know."


    Groaning in frustration, Noah turned towards Ellie and asked, "What the hell are you doing with this dumb guy?"


    ....

 Chapter 140 - I know

    "Because Sebastian is honest and sweet, he isn''t a liar like you," Melissa shouted before walking towards Noah.


    "Babe I¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "Don''t you dare babe me Noah Stewart, I am still very angry with you but that doesn''t mean you will disturb others."


    "Yes, you should have stayed there and tried to make things right with her. How can you just leave her alone when she is all angry and grumpy and show up here?" Sebastian frowned.


    Placing her hand on her waist, Melissa nodded her head. "Sebastian is right, why did you leave me alone and come here at this time?"


    "But babe I just wanted to ask Sebastian why he didn''t tell me that you are angry and¡ª"


    "So now Sebastian has to tell you that your girlfriend is mad at you? Am I his girlfriend or yours?" Without waiting for his reply, Melissa added, "Did you call me even once when you were out for the whole day today?"


    Lowering his head, Noah shook his head, "I am sorry."


    "Sebastian called Ellie twice and¡ª"


    Looking at Sebastian, Noah frowned, "When on earth did you call her? We were together all the time."


    Shrugging his shoulders, Sebastian answered, "I just wanted to know if she had lunch or not, her stomach feels upset when she skips any meal."


    Pacing her hand on her chest, Melissa sighed, "Sebastian you are so cute, I had no idea that you are so considerate."


    "Hey, I taught him all of thi okay? I gave him my special lessons after he started seeing Ellie, he did not know anything before that." Turning towards Melissa, Noah added, "Mel, I swear I had no idea that you were angry. I know it''s my fault that I did not call you or the entire day but I was very busy so¡ª"


    "How much does a typing simple text take? Being busy is no excuse for your negligence towards your girlfriend." without waiting for his reply, Melissa groaned in frustration, "Charlotte was so right, you are losing interest in me."


    Noah widened his eyes in shock and shouted, "What? No where did that come from? Losing interest? You think that I don''t love you anymore?"


    "Hmm that is not what she meant." Pausing for a while, Ellie continued, "It means that you still love her but you are losing interest."


    "What does that even mean?" Sebastian asked.


    "Charlotte said that when a relationship is too old, the man seems to lose interest in the woman so he goes around looking for something that is more interesting. But that doesn''t mean that the man doesn''t love his woman," Ellie explained.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Sebastian inquired, "So you mean a man sleeps with some other woman for interest but he still loves his partner?"


    When Ellie and Melissa nodded their head, Noah frowned and snapped, "What? Is that even a thing?"


    "I don''t care but Noah Stewart, dont force me to become Annabelle," Melissa shouted.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie answered, "Well, Charlotte said that¡ª"


    "I don''t give a f.u.c.k about what Charlotte says okay? That woman is insane and please you girls should stop listening to her." Holding Melissa''s hand, Naoh continued, "Babe you know how much I love you right? How can I ever lose interest in someone who is so beautiful and close to my heart? Look, I know it''s my fault, I should''ve called you and talked to you. I am sorry for making you feel insecure and sad, you know that I would never purposely hurt you Mel, you are my happy pill."


    Cupping his cheeks, Melissa smiled, "I know, I am sorry for overreacting."


    Wrapping his hand around her waist, he added, "I would never cheat on you or lose interest."


    Giving him a peck on his lips, she said, "Wouldn''t I chop your d.i.c.k off and throw it in the garbage if you dare to do that?"


    "Hmm, I know."


    When the couple started kissing each other, Sebastian and Ellie awkwardly looked away. How were they supposed to react when two people were passionately kissing each other?


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, Sebastian said, "Alright you too, go home and continue."


    Pulling away, Noah turned towards him and said, "Sorry for disturbing you both, we will for now."


    After they left, Ellie crossed her arms in the front and asked, "So you took lessons from Noah?"


    "And Calvin, they were giving me some tips on how to handle women and their tantrums," Sebastian answered.


    Raising her brows, she added, "So you think that I throw tantrums?"


    "What? When did I say that?"


    "You just did."


    Sebastian vigorously shook his head and tried to defend himself. "I didn''t¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she chuckled and wrapped her arms around his waist. "Relax Sebastian, I was just kidding with you."


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he sighed, "You are becoming sly day by day, you like teasing me don''t you?"


    Pinching his waist, she vigorously nodded her head, "Hmm, it''s fun."


    Taking off his coat, he started folding his sleeves and said, "You wanna see what is fun?" before she could say anything, he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer.


    Ellie gasped and placed her hand on his chest before looking straight into his eyes, she could stare at him all day without getting tired or losing interest. Lifting her hand, she caressed his right cheek and smiled.


    Placing his hand on hers, he pressed it against his lips. "I''ll never lose interest or make you feel insecure."


    She smiled and nodded her head, "I know." Burying her head on his chest, she added, "I know you will never hurt me, I feel so safe with you."


    Kissing the top of her head, she wrapped his arms around her and smiled. He loved moments like this where he could just embrace her, it made him feel happy and content.


    But their sweet moment was interrupted by a sudden phone call.


    Pulling away, she grabbed his coat and said, "Your phone is ringing Seb."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 141 - We are enough

    Taking the coat from her hand, he tossed it aside and pulled her into his embrace once again. "Lets ignore that for sometime."


    "What if it''s something important? Maybe it''s from the office or Ava." Pulling away, she continued, "I think you should take it first because even I have to heat up our dinner."


    Reluctantly letting her go, he frowned, "This phone call better be important otherwise that person is in serious trouble." When Ellie chuckled, he continued, "What? This phone call just ruined our warm hug time."


    Knocking his forehead, she helplessly shook her head and started walking towards the kitchen.


    After Ellie left, Sebastian took out his phone from his coat pocket. He frowned and tossed it aside before sitting down on the couch.


    "Seb do you¡ª" she stopped midway when she saw his grumpy expression.


    Picking up the phone, she sat down beside him and said, "Why aren''t you receiving it?"


    "I just don''t wanna deal with her right now, I am in a very good mood to listen to her rants."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she sighed, "If you keep ignoring her, she will never stop calling. So why not just listen to what she has to say and finish it off?"


    "Last time she pressured me to meet Charlotte and bring her to stay with us, I don''t know what she wants this time El."


    "What if she just wants to know how you are doing? Don''t be so pessimistic Seb, maybe her call is out of care this time?"


    "Yeah, you wish." Sebastian knew his mother really well to even think that she is calling only because she cares.


    Placing her hand on his, she added, "How will you know until you talk to her?"


    Taking his phone from her hand which was still ringing, he sighed, "Fine."


    "Okay so why don''t you talk to her and I''ll make some dessert for us. What do you want to have?" Before he could say anything, she added, "And a sandwich isn''t a dessert."


    Sebastian pouted his lips and sighed, "Alright, make whatever you want. Everything that you make tastes delicious."


    "Alright, take the call."


    After Ellie entered the kitchen, Sebastian took a deep breath before receiving the call.


    "How long does it take to receive your mother''s call Sebastian Stewart?" Rebecca snapped.


    "What is it?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she inquired, "Where is your sister? She was supposed to meet someone for a date but she dared on to show up and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he said, "I told her not to go, that guy isn''t nice."


    "Are you trying to say that my choice is wrong?"


    "If you want me to be blunt then yes, that guy is not for Ava. He is a womanizer and has a really bad record."


    "His family is beneficial to our company and¡ª"


    Gritting his teeth, Sebastian snapped, "Our company doesn''t need anyone to support us mother, we are enough to support the company."


    "Who are you referring to? You and Noah? I have no doubt that you both are talented but do you have any idea how beneficial it is if you both find a partner for yourself who can support you and make you even more stronger?" Without waiting for his reply, Rebecca continued, "But of course, Noah has found someone so normal for himself but I wont let you do anything stupid and¡ª"


    "I think I am big enough to take my own decisions mom, it''s time for you to take a break and have a good time with dad. All your kids are big enough to take care of themselves and I''ll take care of Ava too."


    "You¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he said, "I''ll talk to you later, I need to complete my work." Without waiting for her reply, he hung up the call.


    ¡­


    Calvin''s place.


    Giving her the last slice of pizza, Calvin said, "Here, take this."


    "This is why I lo¡ª" stopping midway, Ava cleared her throat and added, "I mean, this is why I like you the most among all my brothers."


    Raising her brows, Charlotte said, "You really seem to be a very nice brother Calvin."


    Giving her a weak smile, Calvin got up and said, "I''ll go and do the dishes first."


    After Calvin left, Charlotte inquired, "So how long?"


    "How long what?"


    "You and the house owner."


    Coughing vigorously, Ava answered, "What? What are you talking about? There is nothing going on between us."


    "Yeah right and I can fly." Helplessly shaking her head, she added, "He gave you the last slice of his pizza, do you have any idea how rare that is? It happens almost never."


    Ava pouted her lips and asked, "Really?"


    "Are you kidding me? Only guys desperately in love give away the last pizza slice," Charlotte answered.


    When Ava did not say anything, she added, "So how long?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ava answered, "It''s been six months but you can''t tell anyone okay? It''s a secret."


    "Hmm impressive and a very good choice, I mean he is handsome, cute and sweet too but why secret?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ava answered, "Well, there are too many people involved so Calvin wanted to keep our relationship a secret to avoid unnecessary complications to which I readily agreed."


    Tying her hair into a messy bun, Charlotte said, "People hide their relationship especially men, for two reasons. Number one, they have secrets to hide and number two, he isn''t sure about the relationship. Well, I am not saying that something is wrong with Calvin but I am speaking hypothetically. Why hide a relationship? I mean, you both love each other and the complications are still going to exist when you people tell everyone about your relationship right? So why not now?"


    After Charlotte left, Ava frowned and pursed her lips. She was feeling very uneasy but at the same time she knew that Calvin would never do anything like that. What Charlotte said did make sense, what was the point of hiding their relationship when eventually they had to tell everyone.


    ¡­

 Chapter 142 - Problem

    When Clavin came out of the kitchen, Ava was immersed in a very deep thought. Sitting right beside her, he wrapped his arms around her shoulder. Kissing her nape, he asked, "What happened honey? You seem to be thinking about something very intensely."


    "I was just thinking why are we still keeping this a secret."


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he chuckled, "Because we don''t want your brothers to strangle me to death and to avoid unnecessary problems."


    Turning towards him, she asked, "Can we not keep it a secret anymore?"


    "Ava you were the one who said that it was the best if we kept it away from everyone¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "Yes but now I am saying that we should tell everyone about it." When Calvin did not say anything, she added, "But you don''t want to do that."


    Calvin sighed and tried to explain his point. "Look, Sebastian and Noah think that I am still a bad flirty man so I need some time to fix things with them."


    "Why do you even have to fix things with anyone? Why do you even care what others think?"


    "Wait, I don''t understand why are we even discussing this now? It''s just a small matter, let''s not stress over it¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she retorted, "Maybe it''s a small matter to you but it means alot to me."


    "Ava you are overreacting¡ª"


    Jerking his hands off her shoulder, she got up and snapped harder, "I am overreacting? You are the one who is insisting on hiding our relationship and it''s so clear that you have no intention of revealing it anytime soon." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Maybe whatever Charlotte said was right, you are actually not taking this relationship seriously."


    Calving frowned and inquired, "Charlotte?"


    "Fine if you are not taking our relationship seriously then I will not take it seriously either." Gritted her teeth, she dashed towards her room.


    Calvin, who had no idea what had exactly happened, sat down on the couch and scrunched his brows. Everything was just fine when they were having pizza and he had no idea what went wrong.


    ¡­..


    Next Morning.


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian''s office


    "Charlotte isn''t bad, she just stated the facts for us Seb and it did make sense," Ellie defended her new friend.


    Sebastian, who was still mad over whatever had happened, retorted, "But why would she even give state the facts? Her facts are creating misunderstandings which is not good."


    "Well, what happened between Mel and Noah was clearly Noah''s fault¡ª"


    "What about us then? Did she not tell you to act aloof and all that shit?" He inquired.


    She sighed and nodded her head, "Yes but Ava and Melissa also told me to do the same so how is it only Charlotte''s fault?" When he did not say anything, she added, "Just dont be harsh on her, she has already been through alot in the past and her uncle is the only family she has who is not even here right now. Currently we are the only ones she can rely on so we cant hurt her okay?"


    "Alright, I''ll listen to you." how could he do something that Ellie didn''t want him to? Initially he was planning to kick Charlotte out but he changed his mind and decided to ask her not to manipulate Ellie anymore.


    "Great, now I have to make preparations for the meeting so I''ll see you in an hour."


    After Ellie left, Noah entered the office.


    "I have called Charlotte over, she will be here in a minute," Noah informed.


    Sebastian nodded his head and hesitantly added, "Listen, let''s not be harsh on her because she has already been through alot and her uncle is the only family she has who isn''t even here right now. Currently we are the only ones she can rely on so¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Noah frowned, "Ellie told you this didn''t she?"


    "How did you know?"


    After taking a deep breath to calm himself down, Noah answered, "I dont care about anything but because of Charlotte''s stupid idea, I was kickd out of the house and I had a very rough time and I need to make sure that this never happens again. Charlotte has to go¡ª"


    "Go where?" Charlotte inquired before walking inside the office along with Calvin.


    Noah gritted his teeth and snapped, "You have to go away from here."


    Raising her brows, she said, "FYI, you people were the ones who called me. In fact, I even canceled my yoga class to come here."


    "I am not talking about coming here in this office, what I mean is that I want you out of our lives¡ª"


    Cutting Noah off, Charlotte snapped, "Hold on big head, I''ll get back to you on this one but first you¡ª" Turning towards Sebastian, she continued, "Why on earth haven''t you proposed Ellie yet?"


    "I¡ª"


    "The way you barged out of the cafe that day, I thought you were going to do it that day itself but now I find out that you haven''t." Pausing for a while, she added, "Are you waiting for someone to take her away from you? Do you want to die single?"


    When Sebastian vigorously shook his head, she continued, "Then what are you waiting for? Christmas?"


    "No, I have plans, in fact, I am doing it during the camping trip."


    "You mean tomorrow''s trip?" When he nodded his head, Charlotte inquired, "Hmm that sounds fun, tell me your plan."


    He excitedly nodded his head and guided her towards the couch leaving Noah dumbfounded.


    Patting Noah''s shoulder, Calvin said, "Don''t worry man, I still hate her so I have your back."


    "What the hell is wrong with Sebastian? We were supposed to scold her together but there he is busy telling her his proposal plans," he snapped.


    Just then Owen entered the office with very bad news.


    "Seb, there is a problem."


    Sebastian frowned and inquired, "What is it?"


    "The location you had selected for the camping and proposal is no more available."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 143 - Mess

    Sebastian frowned and jolted up, "What? But it was available until yesterday."


    Owem sighed and nodded his head, "Yes it was but something happened in that area so they had to shut it down for the weekend."


    Pacing back and forth, Sebastian started panicking. He had the whole proposal planned according to the venue but now everything was messed up.


    "Alright so there is no venue for the camping and also the proposal?" When Owen nodded his head, Charlotte sighed and helplessly shook her head. "Men are seriously a mess without a woman guiding them."


    "We don''t need your guidance okay? So just stay away from us and my woman," Noah snapped.


    Placing her hand on her waist, Charlotte narrowed her eyes and snarled, "Listen to me you big head, I don''t remember pissing you off so stop pressing my stress button."


    "You manipulated Mel and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "Manipulated her? Well listen you douche, you were the one who ignored her for the entire day and went shopping without telling her so it''s clearly your fault and not mine. Please pardon me for speaking the truth and enlightening you with the punishment you deserve but I am not so sorry at all."


    Leaning towards him, Calvin whispered, "Dude, clearly your fault."


    Turning towards Calvin, she narrowed her eyes. "And you¡ª" stopping midway, she took a deep breath to calm herself down and continued, "I''ll deal with you later. And now if you selfish people are tired of thinking only about your problems, we have a genuine and very serious one here."


    Taking out her phone from her bag, she started looking for a number. "If we don''t do anything right now, someone is going to die single and I don''t want that to happen."


    "She is good, who is she again?" Owen inquired.


    Noah sighed and answered, "The woman Seb went on a date with."


    "That was not a date," Sebastian and Charlotte shouted together.


    Pinching his brows, Sebastian let out a frustrated sigh, "Great everything is ruined, all my plans and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Charlotte yelled, "Oh will you shut up and let me think, damn you people are such a baby."


    "But didnt you hear what Owen said? The place is gone and now we don''t have the time to look for another perfect spot for the camping and proposal," Calvin explained.


    "Are you trying to tell me that there is no other place in such a big universe which is also near us, where we can camp and Mr Yogurt can settle down with this beautiful woman who is way out of his league?" When Calvin vigorously shook his head, she snapped again, "So if you can''t help, then keep your damn mouth shut." Before looking into her phone again.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Owen inquired, "What are you doing? This isn''t the right time to scroll through your phone or play games."


    "I am not playing games or whatever, I am looking for a number." Pausing for a while, she continued, "I know a guy who owns this beautiful camping space with a forest mountain view and it''s a perfect place for the proposal too."


    Sebastian sighed and quickly approached her. "That is great, I can pay him as much as h wants and¡ª"


    Rolling her eyes, Charlotte sighed, "Geez stop right there Bill Gates, you are friends with Charlotte Adams now so you automatically get all the benefits. You don''t have to pay a cent, I''ll handle everything once I figure out his phone number."


    Noah frowned and asked, "So you don''t have his number?"


    "Of course I do, I just don''t remember his name." When Calvin and Noah gave her a weird look, she rolled her eyes and snapped, "Oh come on, as if you remember the names of the people you''ve slept with."


    "Well yeah, the woman''s got a point," Owen chuckled.


    Gesturing everyone to keep quiet, she called someone. "Hello this is Charlotte, are you the guy who owns a camping space?...Okay bye."


    Slumping on the couch, Calvin sighed, "I assume this is gonna take a long time."


    After making a couple of more calls, she finally got the correct guy.


    "Hello this is Charlotte, are you the guy who owns a camping space?" Sticking out her thumb to the guys, she got up and smiled. "Hello darling, I was just thinking about you." before walking to the side.


    Patting Sebastian''s shoulder who was clearly freaking out, Noah tried to console him. "Don''t worry man, we will figure this out."


    Just then Charlotte hung up the call and approached them with a huge grin on her face. "Okay, we got the place and since Monday is a public holiday, I told him that we will be staying there until then. It''s a three hour drive without traffic and the best part is, there is this beautiful spot which is perfect for the proposal."


    Sebastian finally breathed a sigh and relief and slumped up on the couch. ''Thank you so much Charlotte, I would have hugged you but I don''t hug anyone else other than Ellie."


    "Ahh it''s alright, I am just happy to help. Just focus on your proposal speech, I''ll handle the rest." Grabbing her bag, she added, "I need to go now, I have a facial scheduled and I also need to shop for the camping."


    "I''ll drop you," Calvin said before following her, he still wanted to talk to her about the whole drama that she had managed to ignite between him and Ava.


    ¡­..


    Inside Calvin''s car.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Charlotte sighed, "I think I owe you an apology, I might have said something to Ava which may have led to a very ugly fight last night."


    "Oh so now you know that what you said was wrong."


    Shrugging her shoulders, she remarked, "Well, I said that because I had no idea that your reputation was this bad, no wonder you people haven''t told anyone about your relationship."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 144 - Bad reputation

    Calvin frowned and snapped, "Hey what do you mean by bad reputation?"


    Raising her brows, Charlotte scoffed, "Really? Now do I have to remind you about how good your reputation is for sleeping around with women?"


    "That was the past okay? Now I am a changed family man." He knew that he had made a few mistakes in the past but after things happened between him and Ava, he had genuinely changed. Why would he go around flinging with women when he had already found a perfect match for himself? There was no way he could afford to mess things up with Ava.


    "I called a few of my contacts to ask about you because your name and face looked very familiar but I couldn''t recall where I had seen or heard about it." When he widened his eyes in shock, she chuckled and shook her head, "Don''t worry, we have never personally met in the past but I had heard wild stories about you, which I am not going to talk about. So anyway, when I heard about your reputations and stories, I was about to tell Ava that it would be a very stupid move to tell everyone about your relationship but you both were already fighting."


    "So why didn''t you come out and talk to us?" he snapped.


    Shrugging her shoulders, she sighed, "I didn''t want to get involved in a couples fight because it is very stressful and my skin breaks out whenever I feel stressed."


    Stopping the car, he turned towards her and fumed, "So you just kept watching us fight for a useless reason? How could you even do that? Do you have any idea how bad yesterday was? I had planned so many things, I wanted to give her the welcome gift that I had bought for her and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she chuckled, "Well, don''t blame me for everything because you are the one who has a very bad reputation."


    Cursing under his breath, he gritted his teeth and turned his head towards the window. He had no idea whether he should blame Charlotte or himself for the situation he was stuck in. Ava was angry because he didn''t want to tell anyone about their relationship and he was still not ready to tell everyone about it, especially Sebastian.


    "Okay now stop making that ugly face, you look hideous." Pausing for a while, she continued, "Well, you can''t blame her brothers if they don''t accept you for their sister because even I would be very reluctant to accept you if you had a thing with my sister."


    "Thank you for telling me something that I already know," he sneered.


    She frowned and smacked his head. "Hey, I am here to help and that tone is not helping.''


    Running his fingers through his hair, he sighed, "I am sorry."


    "Better." After taking a deep breath, she added, "Now we have to do something and make them realize that you aren''t the Calvin you used to be."


    "And how will we do that?"


    Thinking for quite some time, she said, "I''ll think of something but for now, go home and talk to Ava."


    "But¡ª"


    "If she doesn''t listen, I''ll talk to her in the evening okay? But I don''t think so Ava is the type of girl who will give you a tough time," she added.


    ...


    Hawick Mansion


    "I heard you are going for a camping trip tomorrow?" Markus inquired.


    Brandon nodded his head and answered, "Yes, I''ll be back by Tuesday."


    "And who are you going with?"


    Folding his clothes which he was taking with him for the camping, he said, "I am going with my college mates."


    Markus raised his brows and asked, "Sebastian and group?" When Brandon nodded his head, he continued, "When did they start inviting you for trips? I don''t remember you guys being so close."


    "What are you talking about grandpa? Seb and I are buddies. Yes, I know he doesn''t like me and blah blah blah, but we are still good. In fact, I helped him select a proposal gift."


    Markus widened his eyes in shock and turned towards Kiko who had the same astonished look in his face.


    Looking at the two old men exchanging glances, Brandon raised his brows in suspicion. "Okay now why that look again?"


    Clearing his throat, Markus inquired, "Who is Sebastian Stewart proposing again?"


    "Hmm I have never met her but her name is Ellie Miller." pausing for a while, he added, "I heard that she is very beautiful."


    Like a very proud father, Markus smiled. "Of course she is beautiful."


    "Now how do you know that? Have you met her grandpa?" Brandon inquired.


    Hesitating for a while, Markus answered, "I-I haven''t, I just assumed that she is beautiful because Sebastian Stewart seems to like her alot."


    Brandon sighed and nodded his head, "I never thought Sebastian would fall so hard for a woman, there was a time when I thought he was into men."


    "So is he very serious about that woman?" Markus inquired.


    "Serious? I think he is crazy about her. You should''ve seen how nervous he was, it was fun seeing Sebastian Stewart that way," he chuckled.


    "Alright, you pack your things and I''ll go for my evening walk now."


    "What? Didn''t you just come back?" Brandon frowned.


    Without saying anything, Markus rushed out of the room along with Kiko.


    ¡­.


    Stewart International Group.


    Sebastian''s office


    "So the camping location changed?" Ellie inquired.


    Sebastian nodded his head and answered, "Yes, that place isn''t available anymore so we had to switch camping spots."


    "I see, where is this new place?"


    "I don''t know, Charlotte helped us find this place." Pausing for a while, he added, "I think you were right about Charlotte, she is a very nice person."


    Passing him his lunch, she said, "Oh, that was fast."


    "What was fast?"


    "Your opinion of Charlotte, you didn''t like her in the morning and now you are saying that she is a good person. I wonder what happened that changed your mind so fast."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 145 - Nervous

    "El, do you smell something?" Sebastian asked.


    Ellie frowned and sniffed for a couple of times. "I don''t smell anything, what is it?"


    Inching closer, he sniffed for a couple of times and chuckled, "Ahh it''s nothing serious, just a strong burning smell of jealousy."


    Rolling her eyes, she retorted, "I am not jealous."


    Pretentiously nodding his head, he nodded his head. "Of course you are not."


    "You talk too much, just eat your lunch." Just then Sebastian grabbed her hand and pulled her towards himself.


    Adjusting her in his lap, he tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and inquired, "So what is bothering my dear Ellie?"


    Reluctantly shaking her head, she said, "Nothing."


    "Come on, talk to me because if you don''t, how will we work on this sudden jealousy of yours?" When she did not say anything, he added, "Okay let me guess, is it because I started talking about Charlotte?"


    Fixing his tie, she slowly nodded her head and explained, "I don''t have a problem with Charlotte and I know that there is nothing between the two of you and nothing will ever happen."


    "So where is the problem?" he inquired. One thing that Sebastian had learned after taking several relationship lessons from his friends and surfing about relationsh.i.p.s online is that, talking and discussing things is the one and only key to a healthy relationship. Until and unless the bothering things and insecurities are discussed between the partners, nothing can go wrong and Sebastian was trying to follow the talking and sorting things out immediately to avoid any kind of communication misunderstandings, which could later lead to bigger fights.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she answered, "I don''t like it when you talk about other women." Without waiting for his reply, she sighed and added, "I know I am being unreasonable but this is how I feel." Burying her head on his neck, she groaned in frustration, "Oh God, this is so embarrassing."


    "Hey, this isn''t embarrassing or anything wrong El, this is something that you fell and I respect it. I am glad that you told me this because in the future I can careful and¡ª"


    "Cutting him off, she pouted her lips and remarked, "It''s not like you can''t talk about any woman, I mean you can but don''t be very emphatic about it."


    Sebastian smiled and nodded his head. "Okay I understood, anything else?"


    She shook her head and answered, "That is it for now."


    Kissing her forehead, he suggested, "So I was thinking whether we should take Boji with us or not."


    Ellie frowned and said, "We can''t leave her alone at home and since everyone is going for the trip, there will be no one to watch her."


    He sighed and nodded his head. "Hmm I had thought so too, let''s take her with us then."


    Glancing at her watch, Ellie gasped, "Lunch time is almost over, you haven''t even started eating yet. You also have a meeting scheduled in twenty minutes so finish your lunch quickly." Hopping down from his lap, she added, "We also have to go home early and pack our stuff for the camping."


    "Everything will be okay, don''t stress over it," he said before taking a deep breath. He had no idea whether he was consoling himself or Ellie. It would be a lie if he said that he wasn''t nervous about the whole proposal thing, the mere thought of it was making his ass sweat. He wanted everything to be perfect but at the same time, he was having this feeling that he would wreck everything.


    ¡­.


    Calvin''s place.


    After taking a deep breath, Calvin gathered all his courage before entering Ava''s room. He had been standing outside for a good twenty minutes, thinking what and how he was supposed to deliver and show Ava how sorry he was.


    As soon as he entered the room, he noticed that she was dressed to leave the house. Thinking that she was leaving him and the house, he panicked. "Where are you going? Are you leaving me?" Without waiting for her reply, he frowned and added, "No you cant leave me like that Ava, that was just a silly and stupid fight. In fact, that was the most stupid fight in the whole universe. How can you leave me for such a stupid reason? There is no way I am giving you a breakup, I¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Ava tried to calm him down. "Relax I am not leaving you or anything, in fact, I was about to go to your office."


    "My office? But why?" Without waiting for her reply, he quickly grabbed her hand and said, "Forget about that, I want to talk to you about something very important." Guiding her towards the bed, he made her sit on the edge of the bed and kneeled down right in front of her.


    "Listen Ava, you mean the world to me and I don''t care about any other thing apart from you." Kissing her knuckles, he continued, "You were right, we shouldn''t keep our relationship a secret. I don''t mind getting a few kicks and punches from your brothers, I seriously don''t care. So we will tell everyone about it tomorrow during the trip."


    Pausing for a while, he added, "I just don''t want you to feel that I am not taking this relationship seriously because that is not true. Trust me babe, everything related to you is very important to me and I love you a lot, I love you more than anything else in this world."


    Placing her hand on his right cheek, she smiled, "I love you too honey but we don''t have to tell anyone."


    "But why? I am okay with it, I swear." After thinking about it for quite some time, Calvin decided to do what Ava wanted. He didn''t care how Sebastian and others would react, all he cared about was Ava and what she felt. He didn''t want to lose his perfect woman because he was scared of a couple of punches and kicks from Noah and Sebastian.


    ....

 Chapter 146 - Boost

    Tightening her grip around his hand, Ava smiled, "This really means a lot to me Calvin but we don''t have to do this, I don''t want you to do anything to prove yourself to me. I am very sorry for reacting that way, I didn''t mean to hurt you but¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he said, "You don''t have to apologize babe, I understand why you felt that way."


    "I am sorry for ruining our night yesterday, I wasn''t thinking straight."


    "Give me a second," Without waiting for her reply, Calvin got up and rushed out of the room.


    Ava got up and was about to follow him when he entered the room again with a small box in his hand.


    "I wanted to give you this yesterday but well." Shrugging his shoulders, he added, "I bought this for you as a welcome gift. I know this isn''t permanent and you will have to move out in the future but I still wanted to cherish this moment with you."


    Taking the box from his hand, she opened and gasped, "Honey, this is beautiful."


    "I am glad you liked it," he smiled.


    Caressing the pendant, she chimed, "I love it, it''s so beautiful."


    Taking it out of the box, he said, "Let me help you wear it."


    Turning around, she shifted her hair to the side giving him enough access to help her wear the pendant.


    "There you go, this looks even more beautiful on you."


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she pulled him closer and whispered, "I assume you don''t have to go to your office right now?"


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, he smiled, "Only a dumb man would go to work when his girlfriend is looking so hot and beautiful."


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s place.


    Midnight.


    Tossing and turning in his bed for almost an hour, Sebastian groaned in frustration and sat up straight. Crossing his legs, he pinched his brows before taking a few deep breaths. He was feeling very nervous and anxious for tomorrow that he couldn''t catch any sleep no matter what he did.


    Thinking for quite some time, he got down from the bed and made his way towards Ellie''s room which was right next to his.


    Slowly opening the door he leaned against the door slab and chuckled.


    As usual, she was sleeping in a very weird posture with one of her legs hanging from the bed. The blanket was lying on the floor along with the pillow, her hair was messy and was scattered all over her face while her t-shirt had lifted up, exposing her belly.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he made his way towards her. Her sleeping postures never failed to amuse him. After realizing that she had a habit of throwing and tossing everything on the floor after falling asleep, he always made sure to check on her before falling asleep.


    Picking up the pillow from the floor, he carefully lifted her head up and kept the pillow where it was supposed to be. He then slowly lifted her leg and placed it on the bed, fixed her t-shirt before picking up the blanket and properly covering her with it.


    Sitting on the edge of the bed right beside her, he carefully removed her hair which was covering her entire place and smiled. If everything happened as he had planned, they would be in a real official relationship. The feeling of having her as his girlfriend itself was making him feel giddy and excited at the same time.


    He had never thought that one day he would feel so loved and also plan a proposal for someone. When he had just started thinking that he would spend his life alone, Ellie barged and changed his entire life in a very wonderful way.


    Slowly caressing her cheeks, he murmured, "Just wait for a little longer."


    Staring at his sleeping beauty for a long time, he reluctantly left the room.


    ¡­.


    Living room.


    After pouring himself a glass of water, Sebastian sat on the couch and started scrolling through his contacts.


    Thinking for quite some time, he called Noah. He was feeling very nervous and he needed someone to talk to him and also boost his courage and confidence.


    "Hello, Noah?"


    "Dude it''s two in the morning, if you are not sleeping, others are," Noah grumbled in a very sleepy voice.


    Sebastian sighed and explained, "I know but I can''t sleep, I am too nervous and excitedly to do anything."


    "Then go work out, why are you calling me?" he complained.


    "Because you are my brother, I called you because I want you to help me boost my confidence," Sebastian insisted.


    Noah frowned and snapped, "You want me to boost your confidence at two in the morning? People need to sleep at this hour not boost something."


    "You are not helping Noah, I am freaking out here," He gritted his teeth.


    Not left with any other choice, Noah sighed, "Alright, don''t be nervous and don''t stress about it too because you will surely mess things up if you overthink. Just go with the flow and trust me when I say that the moment you will stand in front of her, words will just flow out of your lips automatically."


    Without waiting for Sebastian''s reply, he added, "I think this much boosting is okay for the night, I''ll hang up now." Before he could say anything, Noah hung up the call.


    Tossing his phone aside, Sebastian sighed. He wanted to talk to someone and tell that person how he was actually feeling.


    Just then Boji snuggled against his leg before looking at him with her cute round eyes.


    Picking up the little one, he places her on his lap. "Are you not feeling sleepy too honey? Hmm¡­.me neither."


    Lifting her up, he continued, "Daddy is going to tell you a secret but you cannot tell your mommy about it, okay?" When she yawned, he chuckled, "I''ll take that as a yes."


    "So, I am proposing El during the camping trip and if she accepts my proposal, I''ll invite her to stay with us here forever."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 147 - Camping

    "Are you feeling nervous? Well, why would you feel nervous about it? I mean, I am the one proposing and if I f.u.c.k up, I''ll be the one facing the rejection so its totally on me." Pausing for a while, Sebastian added, "What do you think Boji, what are the chances of Ellie rejecting me?"


    Looking at Boji, who definitely had no idea what he was talking about, he chuckled, "I wish you could talk for real but anyway, I think there is 0.01% of her rejecting me. Well, overconfidence is not good for health so now you know why that 0.01%."


    Cressing the top of her head, he smiled, "There is another good news for you, we have decided to take you with us because we can''t leave you alone and honestly, I need you to be there with us when the happy moments start."


    Petting her for quite some time, Sebastian got up. "Alright, let''s get you to bed and I''ll go workout to release some stress."


    After placing Boji on her bed, he took off his t-shirt and made his way towards the room which he had converted into a home gym.


    ¡­


    Next morning.


    Tying her hair into a messy bun, Ellie entered Sebastian''s room to wake him up. It was still very early but they had to leave for the camping at sharp seven and there were many things to take care of.


    "Good morning¡ª" stopping midway, she raised her brows when she did not see him on the bed. Looking around and after making sure that he really wasn''t there, she frowned and rushed downstairs.


    "Sebastian?" she called him out before checking the kitchen. When he did not respond, she was about to go to heer room to fetch her cell phone to call him, a half n.a.k.e.d man drenched in sweat stepped out of the room right beside the kitchen.


    With a white towel wrapped around his neck and sweat dripping all over his chest and tasty abs, Sebastian was still panting and trying very hard to catch a breath. "Hey, morning."


    Ellie, who was not ready to witness such a drooling scenario early in the morning, couldn''t take her eyes off him. There she was expecting to see his handsome smiling face but who would''ve thought that she would end up seeing so much.


    But was she complaining? Of course not, what kind of idiot would whine after seeing an eye candy early in the morning?


    Snapping his fingers in front of her face, he inquired, "El, are you fine?"


    Coming out of her delicious stupor, Ellie cleared her throat and awkwardly looked away. "I didn''t know that you worked out this early." Because if she had known, she would definitely force herself up to treat her eyes with such a delicious scenario every morning. What could be more better than starting her day with a nice glimpse of half n.a.k.e.d Sebastian Stewart with his chiseled abs?


    "No I don''t, it''s just today," he answered.


    "Hmm, I think you should workout every morning and walk around like this for a while," she blurted out.


    Realizing what she has just said, she widened her eyes in shock and tried to cover up her l.u.s.tful statement with something civil. "I mean, I have heard that working out early in the morning helps in boosting the immune system and then if you walk around with your upper body drenched in-in sweat, t-that is very helpful too."


    Sebastian chuckled and asked, "What?"


    After making a complete fool of herself, she quickly turned around and rushed towards the kitchen. "Ahh I''ll quickly make breakfast and you, go and take a shower."


    Leaning against the kitchen door with a huge smirk on his face, he teased, "El, are you sure you don''t want me to move around for some more time with my body drenched in sweat?"


    "Alright, will you go and take a shower or do you want me to kick you out?" she fumed.


    Wiping his chest with the towel, he chuckled and made his way towards his room.


    ¡­..


    Calvin''s place.


    "So, all ready?" Calvin inquired.


    Giving him a kiss, Ava nodded her head. "Uh-huh, everything is ready and you are looking very handsome as always."


    Rolling her eyes, Charlotte remarked, "Alright love birds, we know you are desperately in love so you don''t have to flaunt it."


    "Hey Char, thankyou for agreeing with us and keeping this a secret, it really means alot to both of us," Ava smiled.


    "No biggie sweetheart, I wish you both all the best but for now, can we leave? There are important things I need to take care of once we reach there." Grabbing her mini camping bag, she walked out of the apartment without waiting for anyone.


    "What important things? What was she talking about Cal?" Ava inquired.


    Shrugging his shoulders, he answered, "I don''t know honey."


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s Apartment.


    Looking at the two sweaters which she had bought for Boji, Ellie sighed, "Seb, I cannot decide which one to pick."


    "Just pick anyone you like El, I am sure boji will be okay with anything unless it keeps her warm," Sebastian answered before checking his coat pocket for the twentieth time. Earlier he was nervous about messing the whole proposal plan but now he was worried about losing the gift.


    "It is very confusing, will you please help me choose a suitable one for her?" she requested.


    Looking at the two sweaters, he said, "Take the pink one, it will look perfect on her."


    "Alright, I think we have everything that Boji needs and we also have everything that we need, so we are good to go." Passing the bag to him, she inquired, "Did you check the gas and the windows?"


    "I think I already did that."


    Ellie sighed and helplessly shook her head. "You think? Well you do know that you ''THINK'' isn''t going to work right?" Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Just hold Boji, I''ll go and cross check everything."


    After Ellie left, Sebastian smiled at Boji and whispered, "Hey bud, the big day is coming and I am very excited and nervous."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 148 - Camping(II)

    Just then, Ellie''s phone started ringing.


    "El, your phone," He shouted.


    "Will you please take it for me? It''s inside my bag," she answered.


    Taking her phone out of her bag, Sebastian frowned when he saw who it was. Wondering why he would call her early in the morning, he was about to receive it when Ellie approached him.


    "Who is it?"


    Passing her the phone, he grumpily remarked, "Who else could it be?"


    Helplessly shaking her head, she chuckled, "You are seriously jealous of Markus?" When he frowned deeper, she took the phone from his hand and wrapped her arms around his neck. "The first thing I will do after coming back from the camping trip is arrange a meeting for you and Markus, I am sure that you will love him."


    "Is Markus a small kid? Like a fourteen or fifteen year old boy?" When she shook her head, he snapped, "Then I am not interested in meeting anyone."


    "What? Why would you not meet him?"


    Ignoring her question, he sighed, "Just receive the call and ask what he wants, I''ll cross check everything until then."


    "Alright, give me two minutes." When Sebastian nodded his head and started checking their bags, she picked up the call.


    "Finally, I have been trying to call you for quite sometime now, why didn''t you receive my call earlier?" Markus inquired.


    "I was busy packing for the camping trip, remember I told you about it?"


    "Uh-huh, I do remember that and I called just to wish you luck," he grinned.


    Raising her brows, she asked, "To wish me luck for what? The camping?"


    "Of course, what else could it be for? It''s not like something big is going to happen during the trip right?" Markus was so excited after learning about Sebastian''s proposal plan that Kiko had to warn him several times not to spill anything in front of Ellie or while talking to her and spoil the entire special plan. But despite all the warnings, Markus wouldn''t stop himself from calling her and wishing her luck.


    After the chance encounter with Ellie at the park, she had become a very important part of his life. Not only did he love meeting and talking to her but there was also this special invisible bond that he shared with her which was very hard to explain.


    After the sudden death of his wife Brenda, Markus had always felt very empty and liked spending time at the park all by himself but that changed after he met Ellie. Not only did he like hearing her rants but also loved talking to her about random things.


    He also knew how much she liked Sebastian, so the whole proposal news excited him to the extent where he couldn''t contain it anymore.


    "Markus, have you been drinking again?" She inquired.


    "What? No, I just happen to be in a very bad mood because you are going camping with the man you love," he blurted out.


    Ellie chuckled and helplessly shook her head, "Alright, I am excited too but I''ll have to go now. I''ll meet you after I come back okay? Take care of yourself."


    "You too, take care and have fun."


    After hanging up the call, she shoved her phone inside her bag before saying, "Let''s leave."


    Picking up their bags, Sebastian scoffed, "So what was Markus saying?"


    Holding Boji in one hand and hooking her other arm around his, she answered, "He was wishing us luck for the camping."


    "I see, I really need some luck," he muttered.


    ¡­...


    Stewart International Group.


    Glancing at her watch, Ava frowned, "What is wrong with Sebastian? He is never late."


    "I know right? He has changed for good lately," Patricia chuckled.


    Raising her brows, Charlotte inquired, "So you mean this current Sebastian is the changed version?"


    Noah grinned and nodded his head. "Sebastian 2.0."


    "If this is the new 2.0 version then I wonder how gruesome was the 1.0 version of Mr Yogurt," Charlotte scrunched her brows before helplessly shaking her head. "I don''t want to think about it, it''s so disturbing."


    "A question that is a little out of topic but why do you call him Mr Yogurt?" Patricia curiously inquired, she has heard Charlotte call Sebastian that a couple of times and found it very odd.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Charlotte answered, "Because Yogurt goes well with his name and I really have no idea what his last name is."


    Just then a car stopped right in front of them.


    Noah frowned and said, "This isn''t Sebastian''s car."


    "It''s Brandon''s," Owen answered.


    "That handsome and stylish friend of yours?" Melissa inquired.


    "I have never met him but I have surely heard many things about him." Turning towards Calvin, Ava asked, "His full name is Brandon Hawick right?"


    When Calvin nodded his head, Charlotte started coughing vigorously.


    Patting her back, Melissa sighed, "Careful, do you want some water?"


    Placing her hand on her chest, Charlotte shook her head before turning towards Calvin. "You mean this is Brandon Hawick, the CEO of Hawick group and industries?"


    When he nodded his head, she chuckled, "Well, the trip just got so much interesting."


    As soon as Brandon stepped out of the car, he took off his sunglasses and smiled at everyone, "Well hello my camping troop."


    Giving Noah a hug, he inquired, "Where is my best bud Seb?"


    "He is on the way so until he comes, let me introduce you to other people." Placing his hand on Melissa''s back, Noah continued, "Meet my girlfriend, Melissa."


    Turning towards others, he added, "You know Owen and Calvin so she is June, Owen''s girlfriend, Ava, Sebastian''s sister and she is¡ª"


    Cutting Noah off, Charlotte took off her glasses and stepped forward. "And I am Charlotte Adam''s." Extending her hand towards her, she smiled, "I am sure that you remember me."


    When Brandon widened his eyes in shock, she chuckled, "Well, I guess you do remember me."


    "You two know each other?" Owen asked.


    Charlotte chuckled and nodded her head. "Of course we do, right Bran¨Cdon?"


    ¡­.

 Chapter 149 - Squeeze

    "So you both already know each other?" Ava curiously asked.


    Charlotte smiled and winked at her, "Inside out." Snapping her fingers right in front of Brandons face, she asked, "What happened? You seem lost."


    Clearing this throat, Brandon gave her a weak smile, "Nothing happened."


    Inching closer, she fixed his collar and smirked, "Yes, nothing really happened."


    Brandon slightly scrunched his brows and glared at Charlotte while the people around them, who had no idea what was happening, kept standing there trying very hard to figure out what was happening between them.


    When Melissa raised her brows at her, Ava silently shrugged her shoulder and slowly shook her head. She really had no idea what was going on between Brandon and Charlotte but she was having this feeling that it was something very gossipy and interesting. Taking a mental note to ask Charlotte about it, she remarked, "Great, this makes things a lot easier because now we can skip the formal introductory part and jump to who is going to travel with whom part."


    "Patricia can join us," Noah added.


    "Yes and Ava can come with me," Calvin quickly declared without wasting any time.


    Looking at Brandon whose face still looked quite pale, Owen said, "Bran you need to take Charlotte with you."


    Reluctantly nodding his head, Brandon answered, "Yes of course, there is plenty of space in my car."


    Just then Ellie and Sebastian arrived along with Boji.


    Noah sighed and helplessly shook his head, "Finally, what took you people so long?"


    "We got stuck in¡ª" Stopping midway, Ellie frowned when she saw Brandon. "You? What the hell are you doing here?"


    Raising his brows, Brandon inquired, "Aren''t you the girl from the bakery? Ah so you are Sebastian''s¡ªouch dude, that hurt." He winced in pain when Noah pinched his waist.


    "Yes I am the girl from the bakery but what the hell are you doing here? Do you want to steal something away from me again?" Ellie snapped, she still hadn''t forgotten how Brandon bossily tried to take away the last couple of pieces of the scone which she was fetching for Markus at the bakery. How could she forget the spoiled, arrogant rich lad who tried to show off his money?


    Holding Boji in his hand, Sebastian quickly approached Ellie. "What happened El? Is something wrong?"


    Pointing towards Brandon, she complained, "Remember when I told you how a rich spoiled man tried to take away my scone?" When he nodded his head, she added, "He is that rich spoiled man. What is he doing here?"


    "I am a friend of Sebastian and others," Brandon answered.


    Calming down a little, Ellie looked at Sebastian and asked, "He is your friend?"


    "Yeah sort of."


    "Okay then, if he is your friend then I fan tolerate him but if he was not then I would''ve kicked his ass," she exclaimed out loud, making sure that Brandon could hear her loud and clear.


    "Alright, I think we shouldn''t leave now." Glancing at his watch, Owen added, "It''s almost time."


    "Are we taking Boji with us?" When Ellie smiled and nodded her head, June beamed in excitement, "Can I take her with us? Please El, I promise that I''ll take care of her."


    When Sebastian nodded his head in approval, she gave Boji to her and instructed, "Just make sure that she isn''t cold and keep giving her treats along the way."


    "I promise I will." Taking Boji in her arms, June quickly entered the car along with Owen.


    Wrapping his arms around her shoulder, Sebastian kissed the top of her head. "She is gonna be okay, don''t worry." When Ellie nodded her head he guided her towards the car.


    ¡­.


    Inside Brandon''s car.


    Glancing at Charlotte who was definitely laughing with her head turned towards the window, he sighed, "You can laugh right on my face if you want to."


    Clearing her throat, she suppressed her silent laughter, she turned towards him and inquired, "I am sorry, what were you saying?"


    "I said that you can laugh if you want to, you laughed a lot that day too so doesn''t make much of a difference," he grumbled.


    Clutching onto her stomach, Charlotte started laughing her ass off. She had been trying to hold it in for a really long time but now she couldn''t.


    "Yes yes, laugh as much as you want. I mean it happened one time and that was because I had drank beer that day but you are still making fun of me."


    Taking out a tissue of her bag, she soaked the tears from the corner of her eyes and chuckled, "Well don''t blame me, blame your d.i.c.k."


    Gritting his teeth, he snapped, "I told you that happened only one time."


    Shrugging her shoulders, she giggled, "Well, I was very much present there when that only one time thing happened."


    "You squeezed it too hard and¡ª"


    "What? Now is it my fault that you exploded yourself as soon as I touched it? I mean come on, we still had our clothes on."


    Brandon frowned and retorted, "Hey, your dress was lying on the floor."


    "Uh huh but I wasn''t n.a.k.e.d, I still had my bra and thongs on." Pausing for a while, she pursed her lips. "You know, I thought it would be the best night but who would''ve thought that you weren''t the kind of guy who could pull off an entire night."


    Tightening his grip around the steering wheel, he gritted his teeth, " Hey, I can pull off an entire night and may be more than that, just don''t judge me so soon. I can do a lot better than that if you give me another chance."


    "What do you mean?" She inquired.


    "Do it with me again, give me another chance to prove my invincibility and manhood," he remarked.


    "That ain''t happening," she chuckled


    "What? But why not?" He objected.


    Shrugging her shoulders, she chuckled, "I don''t want to disappoint myself all over again and I really can handle another round of the same whining thing of yours."


    Stopping the car midway, he turned towards her and explained, "Look Charlotte, I am assuring you that it won''t happen again which means that it really wont."


    Inching closer, she ran her index fingers through his face and smirked, "And what if I squeeze it too hard again?"


    ¡­.

 Chapter 150 - "Ill go wherever you take me..."

    Gulping in nervousness, Brandon answered, "Well, I''ll not let myself get carried away with all the squeezing."


    Patting his right cheek, Charlotte smiled, "I see but too bad I have no intentions of doing it again, I think I have already seen what I am supposed to."


    "No, you haven''t seen anything so¡ª" he stopped midway when his phone started ringing and when he received it, Noah started yelling.


    "Dude, why the hell did you stop? We are already running late."


    Hanging up the call, he turned on the engine and sneered, "We are not done Charlotte Adams you¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she said, "But I am certainly done with you." Without waiting for his reply, she shoved the airpods inside her ear and closed her eyes, leaving Brandon to fume in frustration and anger.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s car.


    Checking his pocket, Sebastian widened his eyes in shock when he couldn''t feel the box. Stopping the car midway, he checked his other pocket and breathed a sigh of relief after confirming that it was still there.


    "Seb what happened?" Elli inquired, this was the third time she had seen him feel his pockets which was very suspicious.


    Hesitating for a while, he answered, "I-I am looking for my phone."


    Pointing towards his phone which was lying on the dashboard, right on front of their eyes, she added, "Its right here, are you alright?" Touching his forehead, she frowned, "You don''t look sick."


    Clearing his throat, he explained, "I did not see that," before turning on the engine.


    Shrugging off his weird behaving thinking that she might be overthinking, she scrolled down the window and took a deep breath.


    Though the day was bright and sunny, it wasn''t too hot. The sky was clear and as they kept on driving towards the suburbs, the view of the mountains kept getting clearer.


    "I like the countryside, the air outside the city has a different charm to it." Turning towards him, she asked, "Don''t you think so?"


    "Yes, it''s fresh and very refreshing. In fact, my grandpa has a farmhouse and it''s beautiful. Noah, I and Ava used to go there on our summer breaks, I''ll take you there someday."


    She smiled and nodded her head, "I would love to go there."


    Grabbing her hand, he pressed his against his lips. "I wanna take you to so many places El."


    Wrapping her arms around his, she placed her head on his shoulder, "I will go wherever you take me."


    Kissing the top of her head, he smiled, life would be so much more beautiful and happy after they leave the camping ground. And if everything goes as he had planned, they would be a couple and would start dating officially.


    ¡­.


    Two hours later.


    After driving for two hours straight, they decided to stop by an open field to relax and also to enjoy the beautiful scenario.


    Sitting on the ground, Melissa sighed, "Hey El, doesn''t this remind you of the camping trip we went on when we were in high school?"


    Ellie chuckled and nodded her head, "It sure does, we had so much fun right?"


    "I am sure that you had fun but¡ª" squeezing in between them, Noah grinned, "This camping is going to be more fun because this trip includes me."


    Rolling her eyes at her boyfriend who was acting like a wuss, Melissa snapped, "Don''t listen to him El, he doesn''t like it when I talk about the camping because I made out with Johnny Decker behind the tent."


    "But I thought you made out with his brother Glen Decker." When Melissa widened her eyes in shock, Ellie shrugged her shoulders, "What? I saw the two of you going behind that bush in the middle of the night."


    Ava chuckled and beamed, "You made out with both the brothers in the same trip?"


    "Oh God, savage Melissa," Charlotte added.


    "What? Both were cute," she defended herself.


    Noah frowned and almost freaked out, "You made out with two Deckers and you are telling me this now? How could you do this to me?"


    "That was high school man." Wrapping his arms around his shoulder, Brandon continued, "At that time, you were surely sticking your tongue down some random girls throat."


    While everyone was happily laughing and having a great time, someone was exceptionally quiet and probably overthinking about all the possibilities that could happen.


    Placing her hand on his thigh, Ellie aske, "What happened? You seem a bit lost."


    Coming out of his stupor, he vigorously shook his head and answered, "It''s nothing, I am okay."


    "Oh come on, you clearly seem to be worried about something." Pausing for a while, Calvin teased, "Tell us what''s wrong Seb."


    "Yes, the camping crew wants to know," Owen added.


    "Blurt it out buddy," Brandon chuckled.


    "He is surely having a headache because you people are blabbering so much, I mean even I am already getting sick of your voices and Sebastian is a very sensitive man," Charlotte snapped.


    Clearing his throat, Sebastian nodded his head, "Just a little headache."


    "Headache? Why didn''t you tell me earlier? How will you drive?"


    "No it''s nothing very serious, I am alright and I can drive," Sebastian explained.


    "Are you sure?" When he nodded his head, Ellie got up and rushed towards their car. " I''ll get some water for you."


    After she left, Charlotte helplessly shook her head and dragged Sebastian with her to a distance where nobody could hear them.


    "What the hell is wrong with you? You are behaving like this is the end of time or the world is going to end." Without waiting for his reply, Charlotte snapped harder, "She is supposed to enjoy this but you are making her feel worried."


    "I am just stressed okay? It''s not my fault."


    Pinching her brows, she placed her hand on his shoulder, "You are proposing her because you love her and you want to be with her right?" When he nodded his head, she added, "You are about to propose the woman you desire the most, she is going to be yours forever Sebastian so shouldn''t you be happy and enjoying this? You look like someone is forcing you to do this on gunpoint."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 151 - Camping spot

    Taking a deep breath, she explained, "Look I totally understand why you are freaking out, I know you are scared because you think she will reject you or you will mess things up but trust me, we all are here to save your ass if anything happens. Like I said before, leave everything on me and just focus on the whole how you are going to do it part."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Sebastian inquired, "Do you think that I scared her?"


    "Scared? Dude she is freaking out and it''s so evident. I mean, if you are scared that she will reject you then mark words man, that is not gonna happen. She loves and cares about you, I can see it in her eyes," she answered.


    As Charlotte was busy making Sebastian understand what he was doing wrong, the others were busy guessing what they might be discussing.


    "I say it''s something related to the whole Seb''s mom wanting him to date Charlotte thing," Mellisa assumed.


    "Hmm I think that its not related to any of that, Seb would never corner talk some other woman in Ellie presence for some stupid reason like our mother. This seems to be very important¡ª" Looking at Calvin, Ava inquired, "Do you know what is going on?"


    Shrugging his shoulders, he reluctantly lied. "No idea what is going on."


    "Nope, me neither," Owen snapped.


    "No idea at all," Noah added.


    The sudden response from the other two men made Melissa, Ava and Patricia very suspicious.


    Melissa was about to ask them something when Ellie arrived.


    Looking around, she asked, "Where is Seb?"


    Hesitating for a while, Ava pointed towards Charlotte and Sebastian who were still engrossed in some kind of a very serious conversation.


    "I''ll go and give him this water first, I dont want his headache to get worse." When Ellie was about to leave, Melissa grabbed her hand to stop her.


    "Wait, that doesn''t bother you?" she frowned.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie inquired, "Bother what? Is there something that I should be bothered about?" Without waiting for anyone''s reply, she continued, "They are having a decent conversation with a decent distance between them, that also in the presence of so many people. Is there anything to worry about? Well, I don''t think so."


    When no one said anything, she made her way towards them.


    "So stop being a baby and be normal, she is supposed to have fun and enjoy each and every moment with you and not keep worrying about your health like your personal nurse," Charlotte snapped.


    Pursing his lips, Sebastian nodded his head. He hated it when he was wrong and someone else was right but whatever Charlotte said did make sense. There was no point stressing about something that was yet to happen and he shouldn''t let the future of the past affect his present. His main focus right now should be to make Ellie feel happy and make sure that she enjoys their first camping trip thoroughly.


    "Enough pep talk and abort mission, she is coming," Charlotte whispered before completely changing the topic. "So I don''t know what to do now."


    "Do what?" Ellie asked before passing the water to Sebastian.


    Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed in disappointment, "I left my suns scream and my night care products at home so I was asking Seb if there was a way to fetch them."


    "And I was telling her that she could just use yours." Wrapping his arms around her waist, he added, "But she is worried that you would mind."


    "Of course not Char, you can use them as much as you want, they might not be as expensive as yours but they just work fine," Ellie smiled.


    Grabbing her hand, Charlotte breathed a sigh of relief, "Thank You so much El, you really are a sweetheart."


    After she walked away, Ellie turned towards Sebastian only to find that he was already smiling at her. "What are you smiling at?"


    Passing her the bottle, he shrugged his shoulders. "Nothing but did I tell you how beautiful you are looking today?"


    Raising her brows, she remaked, "So you''re saying that I don''t look beautiful the other days?"


    Widening his eyes in shock, he retorted, "What? When did I say that?"


    "Well I think you¡ªahhhh." She squealed in surprise when he suddenly scooped her into his arms.


    "You very well know what I meant Ms Miller, you look beautiful everyday but today you are looking a bit extra beautiful."


    "What happened to your headache?" She chuckled.


    "It just happened to vanish, so are you ready for the whole camping thing?"


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she smiled, "I am actually very excited."


    "Me too."


    ¡­.


    Camping spot.


    "So you own this whole place?" Brandon started interviewing the guy whom Charlotte had taken a favour from.


    "Yes, I certainly do," he answered.


    "A very curious question, why camping space?" Owen inquired, he couldn''t stop wondering why someone would convert such a beautiful place to a personal camping space and not a resort or something like that.


    Located in the suburbs, the camping spot had a very beautiful forest mountain view with an amazing scenery. The air around the entire area was chilly and comforting at the same time. The entire area was covered with tall trees and bushes which made it hard to believe that it was a personal property and not an actual forest.


    "My father is very fond of camping so he converted this huge chunk of land that we owned into nice personal camping space with a very nice forest mountain look. I mean, the mountains look quite close and distinct from here so he just converted half of the land into a forest and started camping here whenever he felt like," the man explained.


    Looking around, Melissa smiled, "Whatever is the reason behind making this entire place, it was a lovely idea. This place is so beautiful that I can stay here like forever."


    Turning towards Charlotte, the man excitedly beamed, "Hey Charlotte, do you like the place?"


    "Oh Timmy, it''s beautiful," she exclaimed.


    "Timmy? But my name is Jimmy," he retorted.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 152 - "L-Like a date?...."

    Inching closer, Charlotte ran her finger through his chest and smiled, "Potato Po-tah-to, it''s the same thing isn''t it? And I like Timmy better."


    "D-Do you want me to c-change my name?" Jimmy shuttered.


    Ignoring his question, she added, "Show us the spot which will be perfect for camping."


    "Yes of course, please this way." Jimmy guided everyone inside the man-made forest.


    Walking behind everyone, Charlotte was trying to maintain a decent distance with the Jimmy guy. She had no intention of ever contacting him if not for the urgency that they had been facing.


    "So who is he? Your sideman?" Brandon curiously inquired.


    "I prefer calling him a one time fling, keeping a sideman forever is not my thing," She answered.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled, "Fling? This guy? And here I thought you are very picky."


    "What are you talking about? Of course I am. And unlike some other person¡ª" pointing at Brandon, she continued, "We actually had fun that night and we also did it twice. So that guy who you are making fun of can actually do it."


    Scrunching his brows, he whined, "Seriously how long is this going to go? I am telling you to give me a chance but you don''t want you and you are also making fun of me, like what am I supposed to do?"


    Placing her hand on his chest, she leaned forward and whispered, "Surprise me."


    "I¡ª"


    Without waiting for his reply, she smirked and walked away.


    Brandon on the other hand, who was still trying to analyze why he ended up getting nervous and dumbfounded whenever Charlotte teased him, took a deep breath and muttered, "Surprise me, I surely will surprise you Charlotte Adams."


    ¡­..


    Looking around, Ellie smiled, "This place is beautiful, isn''t it?"


    Looking at her, he smiled and nodded his head, "It surely is."


    "So this is the perfect spot for camping, there is a lake nearby so you guys can go sightseeing, there is a place right behind that bush where you will get all the wood for the fire and if you guys crave for beer, the freezer is stocked with them. I have asked someone to make the martinis and store them, Charlotte loves them so that is for her."


    "You like Charlotte don''t you?" Melissa inquired.


    Looking at Charlotte who was busy discussing something with Noah, Jimmy gulped in nervousness, "Is it that evident? Do you think she knows? Do you think she likes me too, otherwise why would she call me yesterday?"


    Not knowing what to say, Melissa smiled and patted his shoulder, "You are a great man with a great place, thanks for letting us camp here."


    "Dude you mentioned freezer, where is it?" Owen curiously asked. All he could see was tall trees and bushes so it made him wonder where the damn freezer was.


    "Oh there is a small cottage not too far away from here, my dad made it so that we could chill here at times," Jimmy answered.


    Placing the bags on the ground, Calvin sighed, "Alright people, let''s start setting up the tents."


    Glancing at his watch, Jimmy said, "I''ll take my leave first and please be careful of snakes¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Brandon widened his eyes in shock, "What? S-Snakes?"


    Jimmy nodded his head and answered, "Yes, there are quite a few here so be careful."


    Gritting his teeth, Brandon groaned in frustration, "Ahh I hate those crawling creatures, they creep me out."


    "Don''t worry man, the moment i see a snake, I''ll send it over to your place for a little visit," Calvin chuckled.


    "This isn''t funny and isn''t this a private property? So why are there snakes?" Brandon fumed.


    "Pfft yes because snakes understand the policy of ownership and deed," Ava chuckled.


    "Yes and also, they are very afraid of jail or a legal lawsuit," Melissa added.


    Brandon frowned and grumpily dropped his bag on the floor. "Stop making fun of me, everyone has something they are scared of okay? Nothing new."


    "Alright guys have fun, I''ll take my leave now and if anything happens, give me a call without any hesitation."


    "Thank you so much Jimmy, you are really very nice."


    After bidding everyone goodbye, he was about to leave when Charlotte stopped him. "Jimmy, wait."


    "Charlotte, do you want me to stay too? I really but I can''t, I have something really 0important to attend and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she said, "That was not what I was about to ask but anyway, I wanted to ask about that thing I had asked you to arrange."


    "Oh that, yes everything is arranged. Just give me a call when it starts, I''ll instruct my men."


    Grabbing his hand, she smiled, "Thank you so much Jimmy, I really appreciate everything that you have done for me and my friends. I''ll never forget it."


    Hesitating for a while, he gathered all his courage to ask, "Do you want to grab a cup of coffee someday?"


    "Sure, I''ll call you."


    ¡­.


    Raising his eyebrows at Brandon who was staring at Charlotte and Jimmy, Naoh inquired, "What is up with you and Charlotte? I mean how do you both know each other?"


    "We just know each other, nothing special." Gritting his teeth, Brandon snapped, "Look at her happily talking to him, that douche is so ugly and doesn''t even have a dressing sense. I mean just look at those black and white sneaks, his shaddy jeans and that t-shirt, which era is he living in?"


    Patting his back, Noah sighed, "I think you have issues."


    ¡­.


    Thinking for quite some time, Sebastian gathered all his courage and asked, "El, will you go sightseeing with me later? Around sunset?"


    Ellie, who was giving Boji her treats, smiled and nodded her head, "Of course, I would love to go with you. Should we ask others too? Wait a sec, Mel¡ª"


    Stopping her midway, he added, "No, I mean just you and me."


    Biting her lower lip, she asked, "Just you and me? L-Like a date?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 153 - Sharing the same tent

    The sparkle in her eyes did not go unnoticed by Sebastian after she mentioned ''DATE''. Though he didn''t want their first date to be in a place like a camping space, he still couldn''t say no. "Yes, like a date."


    Trying very hard to suppress her squeal and blush, she nodded her head, "Yes, I would love to go on a walk date with you."


    "Alright then, let''s set our little tent and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she curiously inquired, "Wait, we are sharing the same tent?"


    "Of course, who else would you share a tent with?" he frowned.


    Hesitating for a while, she awkwardly answered, "I thought I was sharing one with Ava or Mel so¡ª" Stopping midway, she cursed herself. Was she actually rejecting the whole idea of sharing a tent for two nights and three days with Sebastian, the man she loved? What the hell was wrong with her? She would happily sleep even without a tent on the ground if he would accompany her.


    "What? Why would you even consider sharing a tent with them when you have me?" Realizing that he might have been too blunt or may be said too much, he added, "I mean, this is a forest and there is a high chance that a wild animal might appear at night so it''s safer for you to stay with me so that I can protect you if something of that sort happens."


    Pursing her lips, she curiously questioned him, "So you can fight with wild animals if they appear?"


    Giving her a weird look, he raised his brows, "So you think that I cannot protect you and Boji? Is this why you don''t want to share a tent with me?"


    "What? When did we say that you can''t protect us?" she chuckled.


    "See you are laughing now and what will¡ª" Stopping midway, he covered Boji;s ears and continued, "What will Boji think of me if you make fun of me like that right in front of her?"


    "I am not making fun of you, I just can''t stop picturing the whole you fighting with a wild animal to protect us."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he grabbed her other free hand and explained, "Look El, I wanted to talk to you about this later but I think that this is the right time." Pausing for a while, he added, "I think that us not staying together is affecting Boji a lot."


    "What? We stay in the same house Seb, we are together all the time and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he specified the main reason behind his previous explanation, "By staying together, I do not mean being under the same roof or spending time with each other, what I actually meant is that what happens after we are done spending time with each is affecting Boji."


    Trying very hard to figure out what he exactly wanted to say, Ellie gave up. "What happens after that?"


    Hesitating for a while, he explained further, "After we are done spending time for the day, we go separate ways right? I mean, you go to your room and I go to mine."


    "Yes so?"


    "So this is affecting Boji, it is making her wonder why her parents don''t stay in the same room."


    Trying very hard not to laugh, she pursed her lips. She knew exactly what he was trying to say by using Boji as a bait and he looked so cute even though he was trying very hard to maintain a poker face and act serious. "So who told you this? I mean the whole sleeping in two different rooms affecting Boji."


    "Who else could it be? Boji herself told me this and since we are on vacation with her, we shouldn''t make her feel sad or uncomfortable and this is why I urge us to share a tent, to make her feel happy."


    Taking a step closer to him, she inquired, "Are you sure that it''s Boji and only Boji who isn''t okay with us sleeping in two different rooms and she is the only reason why you want us to share a tent Sebastian?"


    Clearing his throat, he avoided her gaze and vigorously nodded his head, "Yes, there is no other reason from my end."


    "So it''s solely about you being a good father?" When he nodded his head again, she smiled, "Well then I think that we really can''t disappoint her."


    "So who is sharing a tent with whom?" Calvin inquired.


    Patricia, who was silent for quite some time, took a deep breath and started whining, "Firstly, I don''t understand why I am here, I mean if the other employees were not coming then why didn''t you tell me? Now you people are all gloating and flaunting your lovey dovey stuff in front of me and terribly missing my husband."


    Shrugging his shoulders, Noah answered, "We canceled on other employees because we decided to make this camping trip a private one and we had also planned on throwing a dinner party for our employees."


    "And we did not cancel on you Pat because you are family, there is nothing private when it comes to you," Sebastian added.


    Placing her hand on her chest, Patricia sighed, "Oh God, I am so sorry for the snapping, I didn''t know that I was here because I am family."


    Hooking her arms around her shoulder, Ava smiled, "So now since our dear Pat''s mood swings are in control, let''s decide how we are gonna share the tent."


    "Yes, we have six tents and we are altogether eleven people so ten of us have to share the tent and one of us has to sleep alone," Calvin explained.


    Raising her hands and before anyone could say anything, Patricia snapped, "I cannot share tents with anyone so I will take the single tent."


    "Fair enough so since Mel and I will be sharing one, we are left with four more tents," Noah added.


    "June and I will take one," Owen declared.


    Placing his hand on Ellie''s shoulder, Sebastian quickly took one for themselves. "We will be taking one and by we, I mean Ellie, Boji and Sebastian."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 154 - N.a.k.e.dness

    When Ava pinched Calvin, he cleared his throat and explained, "So that leaves us with two tents and four people. Since Brandon is tall and so am I, we cant fit in one tent¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian declared using his brotherly tone, "Okay then, Ava can share the tent with Calvin." There was no way he would let his little sister share one with Brandon, he would rather prefer her being with someone he could trust, Calvin.


    Ava, whose heart was leaping and pouncing in joy had to control her urge to squeal and hug her big brother who just made things so much better for them. She had been racking her brains and discussing things with Calvin to come up with a not so obvious plan of sharing a tent together but Sebastina just made things so easy and smooth for them.


    "Wait so I have to share a tent with Charlotte?" Brandon inquired.


    "Yes, Do you have a problem with that?" Owen asked.


    Brandon smiled and vigorously shook his head, why on earth would he have a problem with? He was looking for a nice opportunity to clear his image and reputation in front of her and this was it.


    "I don''t have a problem either," Charlotte added.


    Excited rubbing his hands together, Calvin beamed, "Okay then, let''s start setting our tents."


    "Let me help you and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he tapped the tip of her nose and smiled, "It''s alright, sit in a shade with Boji while I finish this up and don''t worry about this, I got it."


    "Okay, I''ll be right there so call me over if you need any help."


    ¡­.


    "Look at these handsome men working, such an eye candy," Melissa sighed in satisfaction.


    "I know right? But two of them are my brothers so I can''t drool over them," Ava added.


    Looking at Ellie who was caressing Boji''s head and day dreaming with a smile on her lips and blush on her cheeks, Charlotte chuckled, "Someone looks really very happy today and she is blushing too."


    "Ah I am sorry, what were you saying?" Ellie inquired, she was so engrossed and giddy after reminiscing about what Sebastian had told her that she couldn''t help but daydream about it. Why wouldn''t she be excited about it? It was her first date with him but little did she know that this was not just a simple date but also the most important day of her life.


    "I am asking, why are you blushing?" Charlotte repeated her question with a huge grin on her face.


    "Blushing? I am not blushing, it''s just hot so my cheeks are red," she lamely defended herself. She didn''t want to tell anyone about the date because she was afraid that it would jinx it and then the entire plan would get ruined.


    "Ahh I know what this is about. I mean the blush, you are thinking about n.a.k.e.d Sebastian aren''t you?" Melissa asked.


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and snapped "What? No, why would I fantasize about n.a.k.e.d Sebastian when I have never seen him n.a.k.e.d in real life."


    "El, you don''t have to see a man n.a.k.e.d for real to fantasize about it, you can easily undress him or strip him n.a.k.e.d with your eyes," Charlotte advised.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "I don''t want to strip anyone n.a.k.e.d with my eyes and besides, can we talk about something else except for n.a.k.e.dness?"


    "Sure, I would love to know about Charlotte and Brondon." Looking at her, Ava chuckled, "What is exactly going on?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, Charlotte explained, "Nothing so important, we just happened to meet at a club a few months ago and ended up making out." She purposely skipped the part when Brandon couldn''t perform and how their entire fun night was ruined. Though she loved teasing him alot, she also understood that for a guy like Brandon, his self esteem was the most important thing for him and she had no intention of taking that away from him.


    "Seriously? Only make out? That doesn''t sound like you and Brandon," Melissa said.


    "Well, that is what exactly happened and what I could have done if we did not click? Not my fault, right?"


    Shaking her head, Ellie answered, "Of course not, it''s absolutely not your fault Char."


    ¡­.


    "Dude, have you seen that proposal place yet?" Owen inquired.


    "I haven''t but I know the way so I''ll just take Ellie there around sunset, I already told her that I will take her for sightseeing so it won''t be suspicious," Sebastian explained, he had everything planned and also had his proposal speech ready. Though he had no idea what the place looked like and what arrangements she had made, he decided to trust her and just focus on the proposing part.


    Patting his shoulder, Noah helped him boost his confidence, "Dont worry man, you have got this and I know that you won''t f.u.c.k things up."


    "Thanks man, I really hope that I don''t."


    ¡­.


    A few hours later.


    After it started getting dark, Sebastian was nervously pacing back and forth behind a tall bush, practicing his speech and also calming himself down.


    "Seb? What are you doing here?" Ava inquired before walking towards her.


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, he vigorously shook his head, "Nothing, I am just checking out the freshness of the air in this area."


    Raising her brows, she crossed her arms in the front. "What? Seriously, what is going on?" When he refused to say anything, she snapped, "I am your sister, I deserve to know what you are up to."


    "Fine¡ª" Looking around, he grabbed her hand and dragged her to a distance. "I am proposing Ellie today for a few minutes."


    "What you¡ª" Stopping her midway, he covered her mouth.


    "Don''t shout or squeal, my whole plan will get ruined if she finds out." When she nodded her head, he pulled his hand away and sighed, "I am just a bit nervous so I was practicing here."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 155 - The big event

    Placing her hand on his shoulder, she grinned, "Firstly, you have no idea how glad I am that you finally decided to do this, Ellie is so perfect and you both look so cute together. Secondly, I know it''s completely normal to have cold feet but you need to calm yourself down and think about the result. Don''t think what will happen if you mess things up but think about how beautiful and amazing your life will become after this proposal. Ellie will be your girlfriend, you can hug, kiss and most importantly love her as much as you want without worrying about anything. After today, your relationship with her will be secured and nobody can separate you both no matter what. And trust me, that feeling is so amazing."


    Sebastian vigorously nodded his head and took a deep breath, "Okay you are right, all I need to think about is the beautiful result."


    "Yes and you are Sebastian Stewart bro, you never f.u.c.k up or such at anything. You got this and I know that you''ll rock this thing," Ava cheered her brother. She was very happy for him and completely supported his relationship with Ellie. There was a time when she thought that her brother would never date any woman let alone falling in love with one and he would never cut himself loose to actually enjoy life like others. He refused to change no matter what she or anybody tried but who would''ve thought that all he needed was a perfect woman who understands him more than everybody else to break through his shell.


    Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Ah I forgot to tell you that Ellie is looking for you."


    "Right." Straightening his clothes and after fixing his hair, he asked, "How do I look?"


    "You look perfect Seb, you always look perfect now go, don''t make her wait," she chuckled.


    After Sebastian left, Ava silently squealed in excitement and quickly ran towards the others, she couldn''t wait to share the news with everyone.


    ¡­..


    "There you are, I have been looking for you everywhere," Ellie sighed.


    "I was just behind that bush checking the woods, are we ready to leave?"


    She smiled and nodded her head, "Yes, I just asked June to take care of Boji while we are away."


    Extending his hand towards her, he said, "Let''s go then."


    Wrapping her arm around his, she intertwined their hands together. "We can go now."


    After they were nowhere to be seen, Ava squealed in excitement. "You guys, Seb is about to propose Ellie."


    Melissa and Patricia gasped in surprise. "What? Now? Who told you?"


    "Sebastian, he told me just¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Charlotte sighed, "Alright ladies, contain your excitement for a while because we have bigger things to execute."


    "What''s next? What do we have to do?" Noah inquired.


    Trying her hair into a bun, Charlotte grabbed her bag and explained, "We need to reach there before they do and one of us has to sneakily handover this flower to Sebastian and there is a thing that I have arranged. We just need to wait for the correct time to execute that."


    "Wait a minute, you guys already knew?" Melissa frowned.


    "Except for you, Ava and Patricia? Yes, we knew," Charlotte answered.


    Glaring at Noah, she fumed, "You knew about this but you did not tell me Noah Stewart? How can you hide things from me?"


    "B-But honey, you did not ask me so I thought that it wasn''t important and¡ª"


    Pressing her finger on his chest, she roared, "Are you trying to say that my best friend''s big day isn''t important to me? What makes you think that I don''t care?"


    "I¡ª"


    "And this is why we requested Noah not to tell you anything. You are Ellie''s best friend so you would definitely feel tempted to tell her everything which would ruin the entire plan. All we want is to make sure that everything runs smoothly for Ellie and Seb so can we please stop this not so important discussion and do what we are supposed to?" Charlotte asked.


    Melissa sighed and nodded her head, "Alright, we should do what is more important right now."


    "Okay people, get your ass moving."


    "Wait, how are we going to go there? I mean won''t they see us?" Owen frowned.


    "We will take a shortcut¡ª" Looking at Brandon, she smirked, "There are many snakes in that area so I hope that won''t be a problem."


    Gritting his teeth, Brandon scoffed, "Of course not, I''ll be just fine."


    ¡­.


    "This place is so beautiful, I am so glad that we came here."


    Sebastian smiled and nodded his head, "Hmm so I guess you''ll like the place even more now."


    "What do you¡ª" Stopping midway, she gasped, "This is beautiful."


    Looking at the vast skyline-silver lake which looked so peaceful, she added, "I love lake sides, it reminds me of my grandma''s place back in Ohio."


    "Do you want to enjoy this beautiful scenery with me for a while?" He nervously asked, each and every second starting now felt like an eternity to him which made him even more nervous.


    Without saying anything, she grabbed his hand and smiled at him.


    Taking it as a big fat ''Yes'' he kissed the back of her hand and guided her towards the wooden walkway built on the lake but he stopped midway when he realized something.


    Someone was supposed to pass him a flower a few minutes ago. The initial plan was that he would distract Ellie and someone would give him the flower from the back but that didn''t happen.


    When he stopped moving, she asked, "What happened?"


    Not knowing how he was supposed to distract her, he quickly hugged her behind. Placing his chin on her shoulder, he wrapped his right hand on her waist while his other free hand wandered behind his back, waiting for someone to pass him the flower.


    Tiptoeing out of the bush where they were hiding, Calvin slowly made his way towards Sebastian.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 156 - "...you are my Olaf."

    Behind the bush.


    "Why do we have to hide and why didn''t he take the flower with him?" Noah whispered.


    Glaring at him, Charlotte snapped, "Really? Don''t you know why we are hiding? And he couldn''t take the flower because he had nowhere to hide it. You don''t expect the guy to hide the flower in his underwear right?" Without waiting for his reply, she continued, "That box was already very hard to hide so we didn''t want to take a risk with the flower."


    "Wait what? There is a box?" Melissa murmured. Though she was so happy for Ellie, she was mad over the fact that she was the last one to find out about the whole plan that the entire group had been working on for God knows how many days.


    Owen nodded his head and answered, "Yes, Seb brought a small proposal gift for Ellie."


    Groaning in frustration, Ava gritted her teeth, "You guys let Sebastian buy a gift for El all by himself? You people got to be kidding me. Noah, don''t you know how awful his taste is on things like jewellery?"


    "Ah don''t worry about that, I helped him choose one so that isn''t a problem anymore," Brandon proudly smiled.


    Crossing her arms in the front, Charlotte raised her brows at him. "So you helped him? No wonder it was very nice."


    ¡­.


    When Sebastian suddenly wrapped his arm around her waist and rested his chin on her shoulder, Ellie''s heart skipped several beats and she couldn''t even move a muscle. She had not seen or anticipated the sudden hug but was she complaining? Of course not, she loved it when he gave her surprise hugs.


    Sebastian on the other hand was getting more nervous by every passing second but his hand never stopped wondering behind his back. He was still waiting for someone to give him the damn flower as planned.


    Realizing that he couldn''t just stay this way without telling her something, he was about to strike up a decent fluffy conversation when she leaned against his body and closed her eyes.


    "You were right, I like this even more," she muttered.


    Just then, Calvin handed him the flower and quickly rushed back to their designated hiding spot.


    Tightening his grip around the flower, Sebastian calmed himself down before pulling away.


    Turning towards him, Ellie was about to ask what had happened when he retrieved a red rose from his back. Her heart started dancing and leaping in joy after seeing him stand right in front of her with a pretty rose in his hand.


    "I-I brought this for you." Extending his hand towards him, he added, "A pretty rose for the most beautiful woman in my life."


    With her cheeks already burning in joy and excitement, she pursed her lips and quickly accepted it, "Thank you so, I didn''t see this one coming."


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he gently caressed her cheeks, "There is a lot more that you are yet to see Ms Miler. Now will you give me the honour to spend some quality time with you near this beautiful lake?"


    "The pleasure is all mine Mr Stewart."


    Tapping the tip of the nose, he smiled and guided her towards the wooden walkway.


    ¡­


    Behind the bush.


    "Wow who helped Seb with those heartwarming lines?" Ava curiously inquired, she had never seen her brother express himself so cheesily until now.


    Shrugging his shoulders, Noah answered, "I didn''t."


    "Me neither."


    "Nope not me too.''


    When everyone looked at Brandon who was busy checking out whether the bush was snake-free or not, he gave them a weird look. "I just helped with the gift, I have no idea."


    Looking at the two love birds, Charlotte chuckled, "Well, Mr Yogurt isn''t as dull as I thought he was."


    "So Seb is the one who came up with that line?" Placing her hand on her chest, Ava gasped and started sobbing, "Oh God, my big brother is finally growing up."


    Wrapping his arms around her shoulder, Calvin chuckled, "It''s okay, we all are happy for him."


    ¡­.


    Edge of the wooden walkway.


    Sitting on the edge of the walkway, Ellie took a deep breath and sighed, "I love the humid air around this place, it''s so fresh and natural."


    Closing the distance between them, Sebastian kept shifting towards her until their arms touched.


    Wrapping her arms around his, she smiled, "This feels so perfect," before placing her head on his shoulder.


    Kissing the top of her head, he nodded in agreement, "It is indeed perfect."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he chuckled, "You know El, I never really appreciated all of this ever in my life. Maybe it''s because I didn''t have you by my side until recently but before you, I saw things in a very materialistic way and everything was just you know, a thing for me but things changed after you accidentally tripped in my office."


    "Okay, do you have to bring that up? It was embarrassing and happened only because the floor in your office is very slippery," she chuckled, how could she forget her first day in his office where she had tripped and made a complete fool of herself?


    With his lips curled upwards, he vigorously nodded his head in agreement, "You are absolutely correct, nothing is wrong with you but everything is the clean floors fault."


    Kissing the top of her head, he smiled, "You made me see things in a way that I had never seen, you made me realize how easy going and fun life can be. I mean, who would''ve thought that watching a movie about a snowman who could talk and munching a bag of unhealthy potato ch.i.p.s can be so interesting?"


    Lifting her head up, she turned towards him and giggled, "That snowman''s name is Olaf, he is fun loving and makes everyone happy."


    Gentling brushing his thumb on her cheeks, he added, "You made my life beautiful and you make me happy Ellie, you are my Olaf."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 157 - The confession

    ''You are my Olaf¡­..''


    The last four words that Sebastian just blurted out made Ellie''s heart burst in joy and she couldn''t stop her lips from curling upwards. She could feel heat creeping through her cheeks and she knew that she was blushing so damn hard that even a tomato woud look pale in front of it but she could do nothing about it. Neither could stop her cheeks from turning red nor stop her heart from blooming in joy. So to save herself from getting teased or being too obvious, she looked away.


    Her sudden actions obviously bothered Sebastian alot and it made him wonder if he had said something that he shouldn''t have. "El, what happened?"


    With her head still turned to the other side, she vigorously shook her head. "Hmm nothing happened."


    "Then why are you not looking at me? Did I say something wrong?" Without waiting for her reply, he kept guessing. "Is it because I called you a snowman? Ahh I should have known this, only an idiot like me would call his date a snowman I¡ª"


    "No no, I am not angry because you called me that." Looking at him, she added, "I just needed some time to control my overwhelming emotions and Olaf is not just a character made of snow, he is an emotion. In fact, Olaf symbolizes trust, faith, love and support. Everyone loves Olaf, even I love him."


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he muttered, "I love Olaf too."


    Gulping in nervousness, she stuttered for a while before hesitantly asking him something which for some odd reason made her heart skip a beat. "Y-You mean that you love the character Olaf, right?"


    Grabbing her, he intertwined them with his and exclaimed in a very assuring tone. "I meant that I love my Olaf."


    "But you just said that I am your Olaf," she murmured. Her head, heart and every nerve in her body were dancing and paragliding in a different kind of sensation that she had never felt before but it still felt very weirdly good and she was enjoying feeling that way.


    Without giving her any further time to process through the entire thing that had happened and was about to happen, he gently squeezed her hand. "We have been together for quite some time now though it still feels like you tripped in my office yesterday, I have no words to describe how incredible the time we have spent together has been."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled, "Before I met you, I was a total geek who knew nothing but to work his ass off and someone who wanted everything to be perfect. Honestly, I thought or rather I believed that I actually lived a perfect life but everything changed after I met you. After meeting you is when I started living a perfect life, you taught me how to live one Ellie and I am so glad that you did."


    When she gently squeezed his hand just like the way he did earlier, Sebastian let out a very nervous laugh. He was freaking out from inside and his facial expressions were clearly doing justice to his inner emotions. "I know that I am not very good with words like Noah or others and I also know that I am a total pain in the ass at times but the way I feel about you is not something I will ever be able to express by using a few words. So I want you to grace me with a chance to express it through my actions."


    "We have been seeing each other for quite some time now and I have realized that the more I see you, the more I want to be with you. There is an invincible bond that we share which is pulling me towards you and I can''t resist it Ellie, I don''t even want to." Kissing the back of her hand, he murmured, "I want to fall hard for you Ellie Miller, so hard that neither you can push me away nor I can get up on my own and I already have."


    Pressing his forehead against hers, he breathed out nervously, "When I am with you, I don''t want to part ways with you and when I am without you, I keep thinking about you. When you are not around, I feel empty and hollow from within. It feels like someone just took away something that is very important to me and when you are with me, I feel so complete and content. I¡ªI really don''t know if I am making any sense here but that''s how important you are to me Ellie and this feeling just keeps getting stronger day by day.


    Closing his eyes, he continued, "My heart flutters everytime I see you or when anyone just casually mentions your name. I wake up every morning all bright and chirpy because I know that I am going to spend it with you and that brightens up my mood even more. You have no idea how delighted and proud I feel when I see you and Boji running around our living room and no matter how tough my day has been, a mere glimpse of you makes everything disappear."


    Pulling away, Sebastian looked into her eyes which were already glistering in tears. Holding both her hands, he exclaimed in a very promising and firm tone, "I can''t promise to give you the whole world, but what I can promise is to hold onto you forever. Your love is all that I need and I will do everything and more to make you feel happy because your happiness brings me joy and makes me feel perfect. I am not sure when and where this started or happened, but I do know that I love Ellie, I love you to the moon and back. I have never felt this way for anyone before and you have no idea how nervous I am right now. May be I look like a courageous and romantic man who is just saying sweet words but trust me, I am so nervous that even my ass is sweating."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 158 - "I love you...."

    Despite all the heart touching and honest words which made Ellie''s eyes water, his last sentence made her chuckle. Each and every word he said was like a sweet stab in her heart which made her feel even more giddy. Though she had never told anyone, she was already head over heels for him too and she loved everything about him and everything related to him. She wanted to tell him so many things but she could barely utter a word. She was desperately waiting for this day to come and now when it was finally happening, she was dumbfounded.


    Not wanting him to overthink or take her silence in the wrong away, she wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him tightly.


    Wrapping his arms around him, he returned her hug. He had no idea whether this was a yes or a no but it felt so right and he didn''t want to miss it.


    Pulling away, she placed her hand on his cheek. "There is so much I want to tell you but I¡ª"


    Wiping her tears away, he smiled, "You don''t have to."


    Pressing her forehead against his, she nervously breathed out, "I love you Sebastian, more than anything in this world. You too make me feel complete and you are my Olaf."


    Closing his eyes, he breathed a sigh of relief and chuckled, "You scared me for a moment."


    Looking at him, she chuckled, "Is your ass more sweaty now?"


    ¡­..


    Behind the bush


    While the two love birds were living one of the most important moments of their lives, the spectators were shedding tears at the side too.


    Looking at Ava, Melissa Charlotte and June who were busy sobbing looking at Sebastian and Ellie, Brandon leaned towards Calvin and whispered, "Dude, do you hear anything that they said?"


    "No man, I did not hear a word," Calvin replied.


    "Then why are they crying? I understand why Ellie is crying but they¡ª"


    "It''s a girl thing so I don''t think so we will ever understand."


    Shrugging his shoulders, Brandon sighed, "I guess."


    Taking a tissue from Charlotte, Melissa said, "I am so glad that you brought you tissues Char."


    Dabbing the tissue in the corner of her eyes, Charlotte sniffed, "I had a feeling that we will need them."


    "Okay I think we all should go and give them some privacy," Noah exclaimed.


    "If you wanna leave without seeing the best part then go ahead." Throwing the tissue away, Charlotte took a deep breath to calm herself down before taking out her phone.


    "What is the best part?" Ava curiously inquired.


    Calling someone, Charlotte peeped at the couple before informing the other person about the situation. "Any minute now, everything is ready?"


    ¡­.


    Wooden Walkway.


    "I got you a small proposal gift." Taking out a velvet box from his pocket which and a cute red ribbon tied over it, he gave it to her. "I hope you''ll like it."


    Taking the box from his hand, she sighed, "You had it all planned already? I could''ve at least given me a hint Seb, I would''ve got something for you as well."


    Caressing her cheeks with his thumb, he smiled, "You have already given me the greatest gift and I don''t wish for anything else."


    Taking off the ribbon, she slowly opened the box and gasped. Brushing her fingers against it, she exclaimed, "This is so beautiful Seb."


    Taking out his pendant out of the box, he kept the box aside. "Here let me help you wear it."


    Shifting her hair to the other side, she slightly turned her upper body to give him easy access.


    As soon as he hooked the chain around her neck, the sky slowly lit up with tiny flames of yellow light.


    Looking at the sky which was almost covered with sky lanterns, Ellie gasped, "This¡ª"


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, he tapped the tip of her nose. "I love you Ellie and I promise that I will never let you down."


    Getting up, she looked at the sky and turned around. "This is beautiful, when did you arrange all of this?"


    "I used a little help from potential people to make things perfect and to start our relationship in a very sweet and perfect way." Hugging her from behind, he kissed her nape. "Did you like it?"


    Turning around, she hooked her arms around his neck and vigorously nodded her head, "I love it and I love you."


    Placing his hand on her right cheek, he gently caressed brushed his thumb against the corner of her lips.


    Clutching onto his t-shirt, Ellie closed her eyes anticipating the most awaiting thing to happen.


    Gulping in nervousness, Sebastian tried to calm himself down before leaning closer¡­..


    ¡­


    Behind the bush.


    "Ahh they are going to kiss," Melissa excitedly beamed before moving a little closer to get some more access.


    "What? Let me see," Calvin, Noah and Owen got overly excitedly and started peeping too.


    While everyone was busy sneaking at the couple, Brandon felt something crawl through the back of his neck. He widened his eyes in shock when he realized what it could be and as every normal person should react, he shouted his lungs out before running out of the bush.


    ¡­.


    "Take it out snake, a snake it''s going to eat me snake." Dancing, jumping, leaping hopping, there was nothing that he did not do to take that crawly disgusting thing out of him.


    The sudden yelling surprised Ellie and Sebastian.


    Looking at Brandon who was still crying and yelling, she frowned, "Isn''t that Brandon? What happened to him?"


    Gritting in teeth in annoyance, Sebastian snapped, "I have no idea but he better have a very solid reason for creating nuisance while we were about to do something important."


    "Let''s check." Grabbing his hand, she started walking towards him.


    "Help help...snake I¨C"


    Rolling his eyes, Sebastian grabbed his collar and fumed, "What the hell are you doing here?"


    With his eyes squeezed shut and his face covered in sweat, Brandon stammered, "S-Snake...."

 Chapter 159 - Together forever

    Sebastian frowned and snapped, "What? Snake?"


    Taking out her phone from her pocket, Ellie turned on the flashlight and reflected it towards Brandon so that Sebastian could check properly.


    "I cannot believe I am looking for a snake now," he muttered before looking at the back of Brandon''s neck.


    "Do you see a snake?" Ellie curiously inquired. The way Brandon was reacting, she was a hundred percent sure a real living snake was hiding under his clothes.


    Pulling out a long leafy thing from the back of Brandon''s neck, Sebastian scoffed, "You call this a snake? It''s s f.u.c.k.i.n.g twig you idiot." Inching closer, he gritted his teeth, "But I wish it was a real snake because I would''ve loved watching it bite your ass."


    "Seriously, a twig?" Dashing out of the bush, Charlotte fumed at Brandon who had just started to calm down. "You mistook a twig for a real snake? You gotta be kidding me."


    Letting out an astonished laugh, Ellie remarked, "Ah so Charlotte is here too."


    "For a second I thought that he was attacked by a real snake," Noah commented before stepping out of the bush along with Melissa and others.


    Wrapping her arms around Sebastian, Ellie nervously chuckled, "En honey, did you invite the whole group to witness our proposal?"


    "Of course not, I knew that Charlotte would be keeping a close eye because we had things planned but others¡ª" Stopping midway, he glared at the group of people and the main culprit who had just ruined his special moment. "What are all of you doing here?"


    "We really had no intentions of invading or disturbing the two of you but the unfortunate misinterpretation of a twig for a snake was totally unexpected along with the yelling and dancing. In fact, we were quite excited and jumpy too see you both ki¡ª"


    Cutting Owen off, Charlotte glared at him and explained, "They didn''t want to miss the special moment and wanted to celebrate it with the two of you so I let them join me."


    "Okay so since all the yelling, crying, spying and also romantic moments are over, can we have some best friend moment here?" Without waiting for anyone''s reply, Melissa started squealing and rushed towards Ellie while she did the exact same thing.


    Sebastian on the other hand who was still super bumped after what had happened, glared at Brandon before balling his hand into a fist.


    Shrugging his shoulders, Brandon wiped his sweat away and breathed a sigh of relief, "For a second I thought it was actually a real snake and it would surely eat me up."


    "Do you have any idea how lucky you are because I can''t see any snake nearby and also because I just succeeded in something that means the world to me?" Taking a step towards him, Sebastian growled, "If not for these two reasons, you would have been crawling by now."


    Pressing his hand on her chest, Brandon nervously chuckled, "Woah easy dude, what are you so bumped up about?"


    Looking at Noah, Sebastian gritted his teeth. "Seriously man, take care of him otherwise I''ll kick his ass."


    "Brandon, you just spoiled Sebastian''s first kiss and that is why he is so bumped," Calvin explained.


    Raising his brows, he inquired, "You mean first kiss with Ellie?"


    "No, first kiss ever," Noah answered.


    "Pfft really? You have never¡ª" Cupping Sebastian''s face, he took a closer look at his lips. "Ahh so this is how a v.i.r.g.i.n lips looks like."


    Jerking his hands off, Sebastian huffed, "Get you hands off me."


    Throwing his hand in thin air, Brandon chortled, "So what if you missed the first shot, just go and do it now."


    "No, the moment is gone now and all thanks to you." The disappointment of not grabbing the golden opportunity he had got to do something that he knew even Ellie wanted was too deep to let go. He managed to carry it out the entire plan so smoothly only to screw it at the end.


    "Oh my God El, this is beautiful," Ava gasped before brushing her finger against the pendant.


    The pendant that Sebastian had gifted Ellie as their proposal gift was a three carat crystal drop shaped diamond with a thin wheat chain. The crystal drop was attached to a four petaled diamond flower which had a sweet and light sparkly look.


    Fanning her eyes with her hand, Melissa choked, "I cannot believe you are finally together with Sebastian, I am so happy for you that I cannot stop my tears."


    "And I cannot believe that my geeky brother is actually so romantic and has a girlfriend now," Ava chuckled.


    Waving Boji''s paw, June smiled, "I am sure that our little Boji here is very happy as well."


    Taking out a few lanterns from her bag, Charlotte smiled, "Now why don''t all of us celebrate this occasion with lighting some lanterns and making a wish." Giving each pair one sky lantern, she added, "Make sure that they fly because if they don''t, your wish will not be fulfilled."


    Opening the packet, Brandon mockinly inquired, "And who fulfils these wishes? The lantern God?"


    Slapping his hand away, Charlotte snapped, "No, the snake God."


    Taking Boji from June, Ellie made her way towards Sebastian who was smiling at them already.


    Scratching Boji''s head, he chuckled, "So does Boji know that mommy said yes?"


    "Well, I guess she will figure it out after she notices them sharing a room together," she answered.


    Taking the lantern out, he carefully arranged it before lighting it up. Stretching his other hand towards her, he smiled, "Let''s make a wish together."


    Holding Boji in one hand and the lantern in the other, Ellie closed and muttered, "Let Seb and El be together forever."


    After slowly letting it go, she grabbed his hand and impatiently waited for it to soar higher and when it did, she beamed in excitement and pounced into his embrace.


    "You do know that even if this thing hadn''t worked, Seb and El would have been always together, right?"


    ¡­

 Chapter 160 - Emptiness

    Ellie smiled and nodded her head before wrapping her arms around his waist. "I know, we are going to do great and I have a feeling that people are actually going to be jealous of us."


    Kissing her forehead, he proudly said, "Of course there is going to be a lot of jealousy and love."


    As the couple were busy enjoying the lantern moment, Charlotte and Brandon couldn''t stop arguing.


    "Are you still blaming me for what had happened?"


    Confidently nodding his head, Charlotte scoffed, "Of course, who else am I supposed to blame? The twig or the imaginary snake?"


    Gritting his teeth, he snapped, "Hey, that was very scary and considering the fear I have for snakes, I think my reaction was very normal."


    "Just stop talking and pissing me off even more than I already am." Without waiting for his reply, she took out the lantern and started setting it up.


    "Do you actually believe in this?"


    "There are many things I believe in, which one are you talking about?" she inquired.


    Pointing towards the lantern, he explained, "This whole making a wish to the lantern thingy, do you really believe in this?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, she answered, "I can''t give you any kind of assurity but no harm making one right? What if it''s really true and you wish ight be true."


    "Okay so let''s give it a shot, I''ll make a wish and if it turns out to be true, I''ll light a lantern every year," Brandon exclaimed before helping her light it.


    ...


    "Can I sit here?" Ellie asked.


    Shifting to the side, Charlotte smiled, "Of course you can, I was just spending some quality time with myself."


    "Ahh I can come back later if you¡ª"


    Cutting her off, she said, "It''s alright, I am almost done."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie remarked, "Seb told me how you helped him alot with all the planning, I had really not expected this to happen¡ªI mean, I knew this would happen eventually but not this soon or during the trip."


    Looking at her, Charlotte smiled, "If you are here to thank me then it''s alright El, you don''t have to. I mean, if I don''t help my friends when they are in need then who will?"


    Hesitating for a while, Ellie sighed, "You know when I heard that Sebastian had gone out on a date with you, I was very bumped and I didnt even want to see your face. I was so mad at him that I didn''t even talk to him for hours. I thought you were some double standard bitchy woman who wanted to take him away from me."


    Pausing for a while, she chuckled and added, "But I was wrong and I understood that you weren''t anything like I had thought you were when we met for the first time. I even told Seb that I was very happy to be around you and be friends with you."


    "Honestly, even I wasn''t hoping that any of you would like me but well, unexpected things happen all the time in my life so I am not at all shocked." Looking at the lake, Charlotte nervously chuckled, "When I was young, my parents used to bring me out for a family outing every weekend. We used to go to amus.e.m.e.nt parks, picnics and sometimes camping too. My mom and dad showered me with all the love and affection that every child deserves to get when they are young and I was very happy. But things changed after I lost my parents in a car accident."


    Placing her hand on hers, Ellie sighed, "i am so sorry, I didn''t know that¡ª"


    "It''s okay, I don''t usually talk about this to anyone so it''s fine." Pausing for a while, she continued, "Though I was only five when this happened and I just have a very vivid image of my parents and the time I had spent with them, I have always felt very empty from within and I still feel the same. Though my uncle loves me alot and takes care of me like his own, I always feel like something is missing. Maybe it''s just me being selfish or paranoid but I feel that way."


    Helplessly shaking her head, she added, "So to not feel that way, I diverted my focus to different things. I tried cooking, baking, dancing and not to forget, I even tried falling in love but nothing worked, I just kept feeling that way. In fact, I am still trying very hard but the emptiness is still there."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie explained, "My grandpa used to tell me that there is always an emptiness in everyone''s life and we can''t do anything about it except for waiting for the right time. So all you have to do is wait and have faith, I am sure that one day you feel complete too."


    Looking at Sebastian who was playing with Boji, Ellie added, "Until today, I always thought that I was happy and nothing else could make me feel more complete but I was wrong. When Sebastian told me about his feelings, I -I can''t even express how immensely happy I felt and it felt so differently right."


    Placing her hand on Charlotte''s, she added, "You think that you are feeling this emptiness because you lost your parents but may be you are wrong, maybe it''s not because of them and something beautiful is waiting for you in the future.I just want to say don''t lose hope Char because you never know how life might surprise you."


    ¡­..


    Past midnight


    Camping space.


    Sebastian and Ellie''s tent.


    Waking up in the middle of the night, Ellie frowned when she did not see Sebastian beside her. Picking up her phone, she tried calling him only to realize that he had left his cell phone behind.


    Thinking for a while, she slowly got out of the tent and started looking for him.


    Making sure not to wake up anyone, she pondered for a while before rushing towards the lakeside.


    .....

 Chapter 161 - All over again

    Lakeside.


    Looking around, she breathed a sigh of relief when she saw him sitting on the same wooden walkway, in the same position like before. Rushing towards him, she called him out, "Seb¡ª"


    Turning around, he frowned and quickly got up. "El, what are you doing here?"


    Wrapping her arms around her, she shivered before rubbing her hands on her arms. "Shouldn''t I ask you that? I woke up and you weren''t there so I started looking for you."


    "I was just¡ª" Stopping midway, he started taking off his coat. "Wear this first¡ª"


    Stopping him, she scrunched her brows, "You can''t do that, you''ll catch a cold." Without waiting for his reply, she grabbed his hand and gestured him to sit on the walkway.


    Following her instruction when he sat down, she hooked her arms around his neck and adjusted herself in his lap before snuggling closer. "How are you so warm?"


    Wrapping her arms around her, he smiled, "I am warm because I have to keep you warm."


    "Ahh what a clever answer Mr Stewart, you deserve a good pat." Patting his head, she inquired, "Now are you going to tell me what brings you here in the middle of the night? And don''t tell me fresh air because I know that isnt the truth."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he sighed, "I am really very happy today Ellie, it''s like the happiest day of my life. I feel so complete and accomplished today."


    "But?"


    "I¡ªI don''t know, I wanted our first date to be perfect. I am not saying that being here with you isn''t perfect, it is but there are so many things I wanted to do during our first date. Like, I wanted to take you to our favorite restaurant, give you a whole bouquet of flowers, shower you with all my love and all kinds of gifts." Pausing for a while, he continued, "I just feel like this could have been more perfect and now I am upset because I couldn''t make this perfect for you."


    Placing her hand on his cheek, she asked, "And who said that this isn''t perfect? This was the most beautiful and perfect day of my life Sebastian and trust me, nothing could''ve been better than this."


    Threading her fingers through the back of his neck, Ellie explained, "I don''t need any fancy restaurants, gifts or flowers to make things perfect, my definition of perfect is nowhere near that. Your presence and love is more than enough to make anything perfect and special for me. I don''t need any materialistics things from you, I just want you to not give up on us and keep loving me."


    Caressing her cheeks with his thumb, he smiled, "How do you do this?"


    "Do what?"


    "Make me feel better just by saying a few words." Pausing for a while, he added, "I still wish to give you all the happiness and love in this world because you deserve it and I promise to never give up on us no matter what happens."


    Biting her lower lip, she smiled, "Seb and El together forever."


    Brushing his thumb on the corner of lips followed by her lower lip, he slowly inched closer and inclined his lips towards her.


    With his lips only inches away from hers, her heart started beating faster and faster with each passing second. She felt the rush of pleasurous helplessness again and his warmth made her body turn limp, melting her in his embrace and she impatiently anticipating what would happen next.


    She felt pleasurous jolts down her spine and a sudden yearning for more when his lips faintly brushed against hers. She could feel his warm breath against her lips which made her breathing hitch.


    The light touch of her soft lips against his made his mind blurry making him want to feel more of her tender lip. Not wasting a single second more, he slowly sucked her lower lips for a couple of times before kissing her.


    His kiss was soft and gentle at first, gradually turning intense. Clutching onto his shirt, she sloppily tried to return the kiss with the same intensity but the tension building up between them made her cling onto him even more.


    She whimpered when he ran his tongue on her lips before pushing it inside her mouth. He started wandering his tongue, letting it explore each and every part of her mouth until it met hers.


    The intertwining of their tongues made both of them m.o.a.n in pleasure. They could feel blood rushing through their body, increasing the tension between them.


    Sliding his hands from her cheeks to her back, they started wondering all over her waist, feeling each and every curve of her body.


    With each passing second, the kiss kept getting intense, both of them reluctant to let each other go. They wanted to live each and every millisecond of the moment without missing anything.


    Reluctantly pulling away and with their chest heaving up and down rapidly, they pressed their foreheads together and chuckled. The feeling after sharing their first kiss was something that both of them couldn''t describe. It was a pure mixture of love, pleasure, anticipation and yearning that they had for each other.


    Looking at each other''s eyes for a couple of seconds without saying anything, they smiled and repeated the pleasurous activity all over again.


    This time, there was no interruption or hesitation. The night and the moment solely belonged to them and there was nothing that could stop them from claiming each other because they were meant to be together.


    The kiss wasn''t just a sensual activity or mutual feeling that they shared together, it was the beginning of their strong relationship which would help them strengthen the bond that they shared together.


    ¡­..


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:


    It took me three hours to write this scene and to make it as perfect and natural as I could.


    With Sebastian''s and Ellie''s first kiss, we have successfully made it to the end of the second volume ''Love finds its way'' and we will be starting the third volume from the next chapter.


    I just want to take a moment and thank each and everyone of you for supporting this novel, we still have a long way to go so let''s stay together and support Seb and El in every possible way :)


    Much love,


    Sofia ?


    ¡­..

 Chapter 162 - Chirpy

    Camping space.


    Brandon and Charlotte''s tent.


    Brandon frowned when he felt some pressure on his chest. When he slowly opened his eyes, a sweet smile along with a soft chuckle unknowingly escaped his mouth. Carefully removing her hair which was scattered over her face, he gently caressed her hair.


    After admiring Charlotte''s sleeping face for quite some time, he frowned and quickly looked away. Wondering why he was staring at her while smiling like an idiot, he slowly lifted her head which was resting on his chest before getting up. He then replaced himself with his pillow before getting out of the tent.


    ¡­.


    Outside.


    Stretching his body and yawning simultaneously, he started wandering around. Stopping midway, he frowned when he heard soft whimpers from Ellie and Sebastian''s tent.


    "Seb, Ellie are you there?" he called them out but when no one answered, he quickly opened the tent only to find Boji impatiently waiting to get out of there.


    Squatting down, he scratched Boji''s forehead. "Hey little guy or girl¡ª hold on let me check." After confirming Boji''s gender, he chuckled, "Yup, definitely a girl."


    "Hey little girl, did your parents abandon you here alone? Don''t worry, uncle Brandon will take you for a morning walk today." Looking for the leash, he hooked it on Boji''s belt before taking her around.


    After sometime, everyone slowly woke up and started looking for Sebastian and Ellie who were nowhere to be.


    "Are you sure that you did not see them?" Ava inquired.


    "No I didn''t, when I woke up Boji was alone in the tent so I took her out for a morning walk and just got back," Brandon explained.


    Crackling his fingers, Noah sighed, "They just got into a relationship yesterday guys, they need some privacy."


    "I agree with Noah, maybe they wanted to spend some alone time so¡ª"


    Cutting Owen off, Melissa said, "I understand but I am just worried about them, what if they are in trouble."


    "Ahh I think you are right Mel, they are in very deep trouble and that trouble''s name is love," Brandon chuckled before pointing his chin towards Sebastian and Ellie who were happily laughing and having a really nice time.


    Breathing a sigh of relief, Ava rested her hand on her hip. "Oh thank God they are here."


    Looking at everyone who was staring at them, Ellie and Sebastian brightly smiled and greeted them, "Good morning everyone, I hope you all had a great night."


    Raising his brows, Noah answered, "Not sure about us but looking at your bright faces and smile, I can say that you both had a great night."


    Grinning from ear to ear, Sebastian vigorously nodden his head. "Yeah, we did explore this place a bit."


    Folding her arms in the front, June chuckled, "I think you both explored a bit too much."


    Tightening her grip on his arm, Ellie said, "I''ll go check on Boji."


    After Ellie left, Ava, Melissa and June quickly followed her while the boys surrounded Sebastian.


    "Dude, you look so happy," Naoh chuckled.


    Placing his hand on his hip, Sebastian took a deep breath and proudly exclaimed, "Because I am happy and why shouldn''t I be happy? I love Ellie and she is my girlfriend now which means that I don''t have to tolerate your lovey dovey acts with Melissa because I can have my own."


    "You kissed Ellie didn''t you?" Calvin inquired.


    Snapping his finger, Brnadon chuckled, "Pfft no wonder you are so chirpy early in the morning."


    Placing his hand on Sebastian''s shoulders, Noah beamed, "You did? You kissed Ellie, ahh I cannot believe that my brother had his first kiss."


    "And you have no idea how glad I am that his first kiss is a woman." When everyone gave him a weird look, Owen Shrugged his shoulder, "What? There was a time when all of us thought that Sebastian was into men."


    "FYI, I am not gay and yes, I am interested in women but not all them. In fact, I am only interested in one woman who is now my girlfriend," Sebastian snapped.


    Giving him a hug, Noah cheered, "Dude, I am so happy for you and welcome to the one woman club."


    While the guys were having their own celebration, the other group were squealing and begging Ellie for details.


    "I cannot believe this, my best friend is all grown up now." Fanning her eyes to stop her tears, Melissa gave Ellie a hug. "I am so proud of you."


    "Alright now, I am waiting for details." Pausing for a while, Ava excitedly inquired, "So how was it? Soft and slow?"


    "Or aggressive and passionate?" June added.


    Biting her lower lip, Ellie hesitated for a while before saying, "Ava, Seb is your brother so won''t this be awkward? I mean, I don''t mind sharing but¡ª"


    "Duh and this is why I need to know, what if he is doing something wrong? I need to guide him if that is the case," Ava explained.


    "If what he did was wrong then I don''t want anything to be right," Groaning in satisfaction, Ellie started narrating the key points. "It was tender and soft at first but it started turning intense with each passing second and later it turned so intense that I almost lost my mind and passed out. He was so gentle and his hands kept moving from my back to my waist."


    Closing their eyes, Melissa, Ava and June groaned in satisfaction. "Oh God that sounds so perfect."


    "What about the tongue? Was there any involvement of the tongue?" June curiously inquired.


    "Definitely, it was so beautiful and I can''t get over it." The aftermath of the kiss was making her giddy and she couldn''t stop smiling. Though they repeated the whole thing over and over again last night until the sky turned orange, she still couldn''t get enough of it.


    "Ah so you people were busy exploring each other''s mouth with your tongues the whole night and here we were worried thinking that some wild animal attacked you," Melissa chuckled.

 Chapter 163 - Screwing his sister

    "I cannot believe that I am saying this but Melissa you were so right, I never knew something would ever feel so right. I have never in my whole felt so complete and light, it''s like I am floating in thin air." Ellie couldn''t find the right words to express how she was feeling, there was no way she could describe the giddiness she was feeling in her heart and the strange sensation which was still lingering all over her body.


    "Well, this is just the beginning darling," Ava smiled.


    "Uh huh, you are yet to experience how making love feels like." Inching closer, Melissa continued, "Sebastian just kisses you and you can''t stop smiling and thinking about it, so imagine what will happen when he caresses your n.a.k.e.d body, kisses each and every part of your body."


    "You will feel something that you have never felt before, it will be so much more sensuous and amazing than the aftermath of the kiss. It will make you hungry and you will plead for more," Ava added.


    Covering her ears, Ellie gulped in nervousness, "Alright now stop it with your wild talks and let me walk through this gradually. When time comes, maybe I''ll experience that as well."


    Just then Seb approached them and wrapped his arms around Ellie''s waist.


    "Hey everyone, I am going to borrow my girlfriend for a while, I hope you don''t mind and even if you do, who cares? I have a girlfriend now," he grinned from ear to ear. He was still not done gloating over the fact that he was no more single and actually had someone he could spend lovey dovey times with.


    Just then Charlotte arrived who was still not completely awake. She wasn''t a morning person but had to force herself up.


    When she saw the huge grin on Sebastian''s face, she placed her hand on her chest and gasped, "What happened to you? Did you sleep with a hanger in your mouth? What''s with that huge and creepy grin?"


    Ignoring her nasty comment, Sebastian walked away along with Ellie without giving a damn to anyone.


    "Hey ladies, we are planning to make sandwiches for breakfast, are you guys in?" Brandon inquired.


    Rubbing her hands together, Ava sighed, "I am already hungry, I''ll help you guys."


    "Yeah su¡ª" stopping midway, Brandon raised his brows when his eyes landed on the pendant that Ava was wearing.


    Rubbing his chin, he smiled, "Wow, this is a nice necklace Ava, from where did you get it?"


    "Oh this mmm¡ª" hesitating for a while, she answered, "A friend gifted it to me."


    "Ah I see." Turning towards Calvin, he called him out. "Hey Cal, come here and see this."


    When Calvin approached him, Brandon wrapped his arms around his shoulder and pointed towards the necklace. "Don''t you think this looks so familiar?"


    Awkwardly scratching his forehead, he nervously chuckled, "Really? I don''t think so."


    "Oh come on look at it properly, doesn''t it look like the pendant I helped you pick for your ¡ª"


    Cutting Brandon off, Calvin stuttered, "What? No, of course not." Glaring at him, he added, "That was different."


    Smiling mischievously, he nodded his head, "Well, of course it was different."


    "I don''t know about you guys but I am really famished so I''ll go bug my boyfriend to make something for me," Melissa reported before leaving while June followed her behind.


    Placing his hand on his h.i.p.s, Brandon smiled and took a deep breath. "What a toasty morning and so many discoveries. Sebastian is finally doing something s.e.x.u.a.l¡ª" Stopping midway, he inquired, "Sebastian reminds me, does he know that you are doing his sister?"


    Ava and Calvin widened their eyes in shock and quickly dragged Brandon to a corner.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Charlotte sighed and excused herself. "Can''t deal with anything until I cleanse my aura with some coffee."


    Crossing his arms in the front, Brandon chuckled, "So you are secretly doing his sister huh? I didn''t know that you had your eyes on sisters as well. Dude, that man is going to kill you if he ever finds out that you ate screwing his sister."


    Calvin frowned and snapped, "It''s nothing like you think, I mean yes we are together but this is not a casual thing okay? We love each other and we are very serious about this relationship."


    "Very well then I should go congratulate Sebastian¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Calvin hissed, "You can''t tell him."


    "Ah but why not?" Brandon frowned.


    "Because Seb doesn''t know about us yet, we haven''t told him about our relationship," Ava explained.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he inquired, "So a secret relationship?" When both of them nodded their heads, he chuckled, "What are you guys? Thirteen?"


    Placing his hand on Brandon''s shoulder, Calvin explained, "Look Brandon, we have our own reasons for not telling Seb or Noah about it yet so I want you to please help us by keeping this whole thing away from them. You will help us right?"


    "Okay but what will I get in return?" When both of them gave him a weird look, Brandon shrugged his shoulders, "What? You expect me to lie to my best buds for nothing?"


    "Alright, anything you say. What do you want? Free access to my hotels, free food for your chicks or¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Brandon placed the most unpredictable demand which was completely different than what he had thought. "I want access to your place."


    "What? Why the hell would I give you access to my place?" Calvin snapped, not only was his demand unrealistic but also suspicious.


    "Oh come on, it''s not like I am going to steal from you or anything. Okay, Charlotte is staying with your guys right?" When both of them nodded their heads, Brandon explained further, "There are few things which I need to solve with her and there are many things we need to do, so if I have access to your place everything will become much easier."


    Crossing his arms in the front, Calvin raised his brows, "You seriously don''t want a free room in my hotels or free food but access to my place because you want to spend time with Charlotte."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 164 - Charlotte over pleasure

    "Hey, never once did I mention anything about spending time or whatever with anyone," Brandon frowned.


    "Okay, you didn''t and let''s say that I assumed things but let me get this straight¡ª" pausing for a while, Clavin continued, "So no free hotel rooms but only access to my place?"


    Snapping his fingers, Brandon nodded his head in agreement, "Exactly and not because I want to spend time with her but there is some unfinished business and things which I need to clear with her for self satisfaction , no other reason."


    Raising his brows at him, Calvin nodded his head, "Okay, but later you can''t change the deal."


    "I won''t and I will also not tell Sebastian or Noah about it, my lips are sealed until further notice." Winking at them, Bradon cracked his fingers and left.


    Placing her hands on her hip, Ava breathed a sigh of relief, "Well, that was so close."


    Looking at Brandon''s retrieving back, Calvin nodded his head, "Close and strange."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Do you even realize what Brandon just did?" When she gave him a weird look, he answered his own question, "He just prioritized Charlotte over pleasure, I had a doubt that something was going on between him and Charlotte but I never thought it was this deep."


    Pouting her lips, she pondered, "From what Charlotte told us, they don''t seem that close."


    Hooking his arm around his shoulder, he smiled, "Well, I think we have a fun show to witness in the future honey."


    ¡­.


    Wondering why he decided to choose a stupid access to Calvin''s place for Charlotte than asking for free rooms where he could take his dates to, Brandon was trying very hard to deal with his complicated emotions when he bumped in Charlote.


    "What on earth are you trying to do?" she snapped before glaring at him.


    Looking at the huge coffee stain, he nervously chuckled, "Sorry, I was thinking about¡ª" Stopping midway, he cleared his throat and continued, "I was thinking about the dates that I have scheduled after we return back."


    "Do you have any idea how difficult it is to remove coffee stains?" she fumed.


    Shrugging his shoulder, he entered the tent without answering her question which fumed Charlotte even more.


    ¡­.


    Inside the tent.


    When Charlotte entered the tent to change her top, Brandon was scrolling through something on his phone. "Step out for a bit." When he did not flinch, she raised her brows and decided to ignore him and pretend as if he wasn''t there.


    Catching the hem of her top, she took it off and tossed his aside before looking for another one.


    Brandon who was listening to his favorite music, widened his eyes in shock and jolted up. "What the¡ªwhat are you trying to do?"


    "What? Since you didn''t want to go out, I did not have any choice." Picking up a blue top, she inquired, "Is this yours?"


    Covering his eyes, he nodded his head. He didn''t wish to see her in a half-n.a.k.e.d state, it just didn''t feel right.


    "I am borrowing it and why the hell are you closing your eyes?" she chuckled.


    "Just wear that damn t-shirt and tell me after you do," he snapped.


    Raising her brows, she pursed her lips. "No seriously, what is wrong with you?" When he did noy say anything, she wore the t-shirt and left.


    After sometime when he opened his eyes, he breathed a sigh of relief. When was the last time he actually covered his eyes when there was a half n.a.k.e.d woman right in front of him? Burying his face on the pillow, he groaned in frustration, "What the hell is wrong with you Brandon Haawick?"


    ¡­..


    Monday. (Returning Day)


    Looking around, Melissa sighed, "I don''t feel like leaving this place."


    "Me too, this was actually the best camping trip of my entire life," Ava added.


    Tightening her grip around Sebastian''s arm, Ellie smiled, "Yes, it was the best trip ever."


    "You guys, I think we all should plan more trips in the future. Let''s go for a long one later, what do you all say?" Noah inquired.


    All the others immediately nodded their heads and readily agreed before giving Sebastian a weird look because he was the only one who ditched whatever plans they made.


    Wrapping his arms around Ellie, Sebastian smiled, "I don''t really have a reason to say no until my girlfriend says yes, I''ll go wherever you guys want to."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Brandon sighed, "This man is f.u.c.k.i.n.g doomed, he is like a puppet already."


    "What? Do you want him to be like you? Seb is a responsible man who knows what his priority is. He prioritized work before because he had nothing else to do but now he has El and that they are dating, there are things that he needs to do as a boyfriend." Turning towards him, Ava added, "Unlike you who doesn''t care about anyone else other than yourself."


    Scrunching his brows, Brandon snapped, "Hey, I am not selfish okay? I let you sleep all over me and I even sacrificed my sleeping space for you inside that tent. Isn''t that enough to say that I am not selfish?"


    Picking up his and Ava''s bag, Calvin chuckled, "Both of you have serious issues to solve."


    Ignoring Charlotte''s and Brandon''s battering, everyone picked up their things and started walking out of the place, towards their car.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s car.


    Placing Boji in the back seat, Sebastian opened the passenger door for Ellie and smiled, "Ready to go home?" When she smiled and nodded her head, he gave her a peck on her cheeks.


    The last two days were the best days of his life, not only did he spend his entire time with Ellie but he also had lots and lots of fun with his friends. He was also very reluctant to leave the place but he knew that there were many more things he still had to show Ellie and many more places to visit, they had a bright future ahead of them.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 165 - Father-friendly

    When he smiled and closed the door before jogging to the driver''s seat, Ellie touched her cheek and blushed. After witnessing the new romantic side of Sebastian for two days, she was surprised and thrilled. Who would have thought that the man who worked his ass off without caring about enjoying his life like normal people do, also had this amazing hidden side of him.


    Though she had seen noticeable changes in him before too but the sudden change that started reflecting after they made their first kiss and the official announcement of their relationship was of some different level. But did she mind the changes? Of course not, why would she?


    Getting inside the car, he fastened his seat belt and inquired, "So are we dropping by your old apartment to grab your things or do you want to do it later?"


    "My things? But why?"


    Tapping his fingers on the steering wheel, he hesitantly answered, "I thought we are officially moving to our place." Without waiting for her reply, he added, "Remember what I told you about Boji? T-That she doesn''t like it when we stay in two different rooms or places."


    Tucking a lock of hair behind her ear, she probed, "Seb, you do realize that I am your girlfriend now and you don''t have to use our innocent Boji to ask me to move in right?" Wrapping her hand around his arm, she placed her head on his shoulder, "This is when you can use your rights as a boyfriend."


    "Okay so using the rights as your boyfriend, I would ask you to move in with me." Before she could say anything, he explained, "Before you say that it''s too early or anything, hear me out."


    Pausing for a while, he continued, "We have been staying together and by together, I mean under the same roof for quite some time and everything is just going on smoothly which is why I am not hesitant to officially move in with you because I know that we are gonna be fine."


    "Are you sure? What if we mess this up?" Tightening her grip around his arms, she sighed, "I don''t want us to mess this up Seb, I can''t afford that."


    Kissing the top of her head, he said in a very assuring tone which made her feel better. "We won''t, I promise that even if we do, I will fix things. You can be the childish one and I''ll be the mature one."


    "Hmmm, I think we can switch at times because sometimes, you are way too childish than I am."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "That happened one time because you were not making sandwiches for me so I had to act a bit stubborn."


    "Stubborn? You started hiding all the spoons Sebastian, that was very childish of you," she chuckled. How could she forget the time when she refused to make sandwiches for dinner because he had already eaten a couple of them at lunch and Sebastian hid all the spoons somewhere and refused to give it to her until she made one for him.


    Scrunching his brows, he complained, "You promised that we would never talk about this."


    Pulling away, she pulled his cheeks while laughing out loud, "It''s just too funny to let go."


    Just, Ellie''s cell phone started ringing.


    "Who is it?" he inquired before starting the car.


    "Its dad," she answered before receiving the call.


    "Hey honey, are you back home?" Harry inquired.


    "We are on the way dad, how are you and mom?"


    "We are fine, so who are you with?"


    Pinching the bridge of her nose, she answered, "I am with Sebastian, we are returning together."


    Pursing his lips, Harry snapped, "What are you doing with him? Are you travelling with him alone? Why didn''t you travel with Noah and Melissa? And why are you always with him?"


    His back to back one breath questions made Ellie take a deep breath. "Dad, I am fine and there was no space in Noah and Melissa''s car."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she continued, "Don''t worry dad, Seb is a very good and safe driver so there is nothing to worry about." Ellie knew that her father had a few issues with Sebastian and it was quite understandable because the situation they met in for the first time wasn''t very father-friendly. But she was sure that when time comes, they would get over everything and bond well.


    Before Harry could say anything, Judith snatched the phone from his hand. "El, honey you have fun with your friends and don''t worry about your father, he has way too much free time in his hand these days as semester breaks are going on so I''ll make sure that he helps me with the yard. I''ll talk to you later okay? I love you and visit us when you have time."


    Without waiting for her reply, Judith hung up the call.


    "Your dad?" When Ellie nodded her head, he sighed, "Your dad isn''t that fond of me."


    "Your mom isn''t fond of me either," she added.


    "And what makes you think that she isn''t? I mean, you two haven''t even met yet," he curiously inquired.


    Shrugging her shoulders, she chuckled, "After hearing that she isn''t very fond of Melissa, it''s not hard to guess that she will never be fond of me. You know your mother better than me Seb."


    Without saying anything, he grabbed her hand and squeezed it lightly before planting a soft kiss on her palm which was like a silent assurance.


    ¡­.


    Three hours later.


    After driving continuously, Sebastian and Ellie stopped by a cafe to grab a cup of coffee before heading home. It was still afternoon but the sky was covered with dark clouds and light thunder sounds could be heard.


    Leaning against the car, she took a sip of her coffee. "I think it''s going to rain, we should rush home."


    Taking the coffee from her hand, he placed it on the roof of the car and grabbed both her hands. "I wanted to wait until we reach home but the weather is nice and I know that it''s still bothering you."


    ¡­...

 Chapter 166 - Really?

    "Is it about what I said about your mother?" Without waiting for his reply, she started explaining her point, "Look Seb, we don''t have to stress about it right now. We just started our relationship and all I want us to do is spend time together, l want us to live each and every moment of it."


    Running his fingers through her hair, he nodded his head in agreement. "I understand what you are trying to say and yes, we will live each and every moment together but I don''t want any insecurities between us."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he interrupted, "Not even a tiny bit so just hear me out first, okay?" Without waiting for her to say anything, he added, "I know that you¡ª well, not only you but everyone thinks that I am a very obedient son who does everything that his parents ask him to and that is true. Most of the time I do what they want me to because no matter how senseless or irrational they are and no matter how much they irritate me, they are still my parents and as kids it''s our responsibility to listen to them."


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he continued, "But that doesn''t mean they can control my life. I listen to them because I want to and not because they want me to." Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled, "Do you think they were happy when I moved out and started living on my own? No they were not at all happy and even threatened me to come back but I did what I wanted to."


    "Threatened you? How?" she curiously inquired.


    "Ah it was a very silly thing, I did not even pay any heed to it." Pausing for a while, he continued, "Telling them about us is my duty Ellie and I''ll do it but accepting us is their choice. We can''t force them to accept our relationship, it is something that they need to do on their own but even if they don''t, why do we have to worry about it? You have me and I have you, that is more than enough."


    Wrapping her arms around him, she chuckled, "And we have Boji as well."


    "Yes, how can we forget about her?"


    Biting her lower lip, she smiled, "You just answered all my questions."


    Caressing her cheeks, he stated, "If you think or feel even a tiny bit uncomfortable thinking that I will give up on our relationship, give up on us or you, you are wrong. No matter what happens, I will always treasure and prioritize our relationship over everything else. You are my top priority now, everything related to you is very important to me."


    Cupping his face, she tiptoed and pressed her lips against his. Pulling away after a few seconds, she smiled, "I love you."


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, he brushed his nose against hers. "I love you more."


    ¡­.


    Outside Clavin''s place.


    Unbuckling his seat belt, he placed his elbow on the steering wheel because resting his head on his palm. Slowly tucking a lock of hair behind her ear, Brandon smiled like an idiot.


    It was almost evening and they were supposed to reach home by mid afternoon but he had to slow down the speed after he realized that Charlotte had fallen asleep in the passenger seat. Not wanting to disturb her, he made sure that the car temperature was comfortable and northing interrupted her sleep.


    Scrunching his brows, he turned to the other side. Since when did he start caring about women who had fallen asleep in his passenger seat?


    Pinching the bridge of her nose, he sighed, there was something terribly wrong with him and he could sense. Staring at a sleeping woman, making sure that she is comfortable, compromising with his car speed so that she doesn''t wake up, smiling like an idiot was so not his thing.


    Thinking that maybe this is happening because he had this awful and embarrassing experience with her, he tried to wake her up by shaking his shoulder but couldn''t. How could he interrupt her sleep when she was looking so peaceful?


    Without thinking of anything else, he slowly got down from the car before jogging towards her side. He then slowly opened the door before unbuckling her seat belt and took the keys to Calvin''s apartment from his pocket and slowly scooped her into his arms.


    Closing the car door with the help of his bum, he satisfactorily nodded his head.


    "Hmmm not heavy at all," he murmured before walking into the building.


    ¡­..


    Inside Calvin''s place.


    After struggling a lot, he finally managed to open the door. Tossing the keys on the table, he started figuring out which was Charlotte''s room.


    "Think Brandon, which one could it be," he muttered before looking around.


    "The first room from the right."


    "Ahh thought so too, thanks," he said before walking towards the directed room but she stopped midway and frowned. Looking at the sly woman who had her squeezed shut, he sighed, "Really?"


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she slowly opened her eyes. "I kinda woke up when you were trying to unlock the door."


    "So why didn''t you help me out? I was struggling there," he complained.


    "I was too tired to even lift my hand so I thought pretending to be asleep was the best option." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "My room is right there."


    Helpless shaking his head, he quietly made his way towards her room without complaining.


    ¡­.


    Charlotte''s room


    Placing her on the bed, he asked, "How long are you staying here?"


    "Hmm I don''t know, maybe until my uncle comes back," she answered.


    When he nodded his head, she curiously inquired, "Why didn''t you wake me up? I mean, instead of just carrying me all the way here isn''t waking me up convenient?"


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, he explained, "Well, I did try waking you up several times but you seemed to be in a very deep sleep so I had no other choice."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 167 - Not being fair

    "Hmm that''s strange because I am a very light sleeper you know but anyway, thanks for bringing me home."


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, Brandon stretched his legs in the front. "You know, there are other ways to thank me."


    Supporting her head with her elbow, she chuckled, "I thought you already gave up that thing but you are still at it." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Which makes me wonder, why didn''t you make any move when we were sharing that tent?"


    "Are you being serious? I couldn''t even move my leg properly in the little space because you took more than half of the tent for your weird sleeping postures. I mean, how do you expect anyone to have s.e.x in that¡ª" Stopping midway, he raised his brows, "Unless you wanted me to make a move, oh my God, you wanted to take advantage of me in that tent."


    "What? Geez stop thinking to highly of yourself, I would never do that even if you¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he inches closer and smirked, "Really? Are you serious and do you mean each and every word you just said?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she placed her hand on his cheek and marveled, "Wow, I never knew that you had such beautiful eyes."


    Running his finger through her face, he tapped the tip of her nose and smiled, "There are many things about me that you are yet to discover. Anyway¡ª" Pulling away, he got up and sighed, "Let''s go out somewhere nice tomorrow okay? I''ll pick you up, say around sixish?"


    "Woah hold on mister, I don''t remember agreeing to go on a date with you," she objected.


    Folding his arms in the front, he said, "I don''t remember mentioning the word date in my whole sentence but well, if you want it to be a date then why not?"


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, she scoffed, "Who wants to go on a date with you?"


    "Okay then its just two friends catching up after sharing tent for three days and not having s.e.x, deal?"


    Extending her hand towards him, she nodded in agreement, "Deal."


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s and Ellie''s place.


    With their clothes soaked in rain water, Ellie and Sebastian quickly rushed inside to make themselves warm. They were still having their coffee when it suddenly started to rain but instead of going inside the car or taking shelter, they decided to stay out in the open and enjoy the rain water.


    Placing Boji on her bed, Ellie took off her wet coat before taking the other one from Sebastian''s hand. "You should go and change quickly otherwise you''ll catch a cold. I''ll change and make some hot soup for you."


    "El, I am fine okay? That was just rain water¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she sighed, "You are not used to playing around in the rain."


    "That is not true, I love walking in the rain," he retorted.


    Nodding her head, she inquired, "When was the last time you actually did this? I mean getting wet in the rain?"


    Pondering for a while, he scrunched his brows and muttered, "In college, I mean it happened after that too but not voluntarily like today."


    Helpless shaking her head, she knocked his forehead. "Go and change, I''ll change too."


    Without saying anything, he obediently nodded his head and made his way towards his room.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s room.


    After taking a quick shower, he quickly changed into warmer clothes before staring at his wardrobe which was almost covered with his clothes only.


    Rubbing his chin, he thought for a while before taking out a big suitcase. He then started shoving random clothes which were lying in his wardrobe into the suitcase.


    "Now what are you doing? Are you going somewhere?" Ellie inquired before placing the soup on the table.


    "I am making space for your clothes and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she chuckled, "Is that needed? I mean, I just keep my things in the other room."


    "No, how is that even considered as living together? You things need to take away almost half of this room. The dressing table is empty so you can keep your makeup and other stuff there and make space for your clothes in the wardrobe too."


    Grabbing his hand, she dragged him towards the bed. "That can wait, we can do it when we both have time but first, drink this." Passing him the soup, she added, "There is no need to rush over anything, we have plenty of time to figure out the space thing."


    Folding his legs on the bed, he took the bowl from her hand and inquired, "When are we getting your things from your apartment?"


    Picking up a towel, she started wiping his wet hair and answered, "Whenever we have time."


    "Oh we have time today but I think we should rest early, how about tomorrow after work?"


    "Okay I¡ª" she stopped midway when someone round and fluffy entered the room.


    "Boji? What is she doing here? Did you bring her up?" Sebastian inquired.


    Vigorously shaking her head, she gasped, "Ahh Boji climbed the stairs for the first time without anyone''s help. I knew that my baby was very talented and special."


    Picking her up, she placed her on the bed and the little furry ball immediately started making herself comfortable. She started whimpering and rolling around without caring about anything, she was acting like she owned the bed.


    Scratching her belly, Ellie chuckled, "Do you love the bed honey? Yes you do." Looking at Seb, she added, "Seb, I think we just missed Boji''s first stair steps."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he placed the bowl down and folded his arms. "El, I don''t think so you are being fair here."


    "Fair? What did I do?" she frowned, she was just talking about Boji and her first step, how is that related to being fair?


    "So Boji is baby and honey but I am just Seb?" Without waiting for her reply, he added, "How is that even fair?"


    ¡­.

 Chapter 168 - Nickname

    "Wait what? Didn''t I always call you Seb?" She wasn''t really understanding what was so unfair with calling him Seb. Considering the fact that she used to call him boss or Mr Stewart, Seb actually sounded very intimate. But little did Ellie know that it wasn''t enough for him.


    "Yes you did but that was before¡ª" Pointing towards himself and then Ellie, he continued, "We happened, now things are not only different but everything has changed."


    Not understanding what he was trying to say, Ellie helplessly shook her head and focused on petting Boji.


    Being completely ignored after stating a very serious issue, he started grumbling, "Are you trying to ignore me? So you are willing to call Boji with cute nicknames but not me?" When she did not say anything, he gasped, "You love Boji more than me."


    Helpless shaking her head, she sighed, "And here I thought that I was dating a mature man, what happened to my sensible Sebastian? What did you do with the mature Seb?"


    ''Well, the mature version is still there but I am trying to be practical here. I am your boyfriend so you should also make me sound like one. People can actually mistake Boji as your partner if you keep calling her baby or honey," he explained.


    Pacing her hand on her thigh, she finally decided to give me. "Okay, what do you want me to call you?"


    Shrugging his shoulder, he answered, "I don''t know, I have heard Melissa call Noah with different names like sweetheart, babe, lollipop, s.e.xy, hotty and there was one which i thought is very interesting and unique, JuJubee."


    Pursing her lips and trying very hard not to laugh, Ellie took a deep breath to calm herself down. "So is the boss of such a big company okay with his girlfriend calling him JuJubee?"


    "Hmm it kinda sounds weird when you are saying it but I like it."


    Throwing a pillow on his face, she chuckled, "You are crazy Mr Stewart, Noah and Melissa are crazy people who are of different levels and I am a hundred percent sure that there is a very dirty and disgusting reason behind those nicknames so please don''t listen to them."


    Dejected and upset for not having a nickname, he sighed and placed his head on Ellie''s lap. "Then what are you going to call me?"


    Running her fingers through his hair, she suggested, "Can''t I just call you what I feel like and according to my mood? I mean do we have to keep a specific name for anything?"


    Picking up Boji, he placed her on his chest and agreed, "Okay, I think we should go with your plan."


    "What do you want to have for dinner? And please don''t say sandwich."


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, he closed his eyes, "Let''s order something today, I know you are tired."


    "Hmm, we should go grocery shopping tomorrow, there are many missing ingredients in the kitchen," she suggested.


    Without saying anything, he obediently nodded his head. "Let''s leave office early tomorrow."


    ¡­..


    Calvin and Ava''s place.


    "Calvin, you are overreacting, I''ll ask Seb to talk with her and¡ª"


    "Talk? Didn''t you tell me that it has already been taken care of? That man is going around telling people that my girlfriend is his fiancee, how do you expect me to be cool about it Ava?" he fumed.


    Pinching the bridge of her nose, Ava tried to explain herself, "You know how ridiculous this circle is Calvin, people talk shit all the time and that Britney is a bitch."


    After arriving in the city, they decided to go to the mall to buy a few fresh bright coloured bed sheets because the ones Calving had were too dull and Ava wasnt a fan of them.


    Everything was going smoothly until they bumped into Britney, a woman who knew everything that was happening in their circle. When she suddenly congratulated Ava for her engagement with Nathan, Calvin almost lost his cool. Ava tried asking her where she heard that from, Britney told her that everyone knew about it.


    "A bitch who knows everything¡ª" Taking a deep breath, he grabbed his coat and started walking out of the room.


    Grabbing his hand, she inquired, "Where are you going?"


    "Well, I just heard about my girlfriend''s engagement so it will be rude if I don''t give her a gift right? I am going to get one." Without waiting for her reply, he jerked her hand off and walked away.


    Massaging her forehead, Ava slumped on the bed and groaned in frustration. She was having a feeling that it was her mothers doing but considering the fact that she wasn''t here, Ava shrugged it off.


    "Well, you guys really fight a lot," Charlotte chuckled.


    "It''s my fault this time, he had the right to be angry," Ava admitted.


    Sitting beside her, Charlotte curiously inquired, "So what exactly happened and how is it your fault?"


    Sitting up straight, Ava asked, "How would you react if someone told you that your boyfriend is engaged with someone out of the blue?"


    "Wuuuu that sounds really very bad, but who are you engaged to?"


    "No Char, I am not engaged with anyone. Its a rumour which some sick bastard started to f.u.c.k my life up."


    Shrugging her shoulders, Charlotte said, "Well, there has to be someone who started it. I mean, I would have directly doubted your mother but considering the fact that she isn''t here, I think it''s someone else."


    "I thought so too but how do I find out?" Things had just started getting better in her life and she didn''t want anything to wreck it, especially a fake rumor.


    "That isn''t hard, just follow the line until you find the main culprit," Charlotte suggested.


    Thinking for a while, Ava sighed, "But I don''t mingle with the circle that much you know so I have no idea where to start from."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Charlotte got up. "Seriously if I ever need a kidney, you or your brother has to give me one without any hesitation."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 169 - Zillionth times

    "I definitely will and that too without any sort of hesitation, you are my savior Charlotte and I don''t know what I would do without you." Giving her a big hug, Ava inquired, "So what is the plan?"


    "There is no plan, I mean there is but it doesn''t include you. Now if you excuse me, I need to make a few phone calls to find out the origin and source of the rumor." Without waiting for her reply, Charlotte walked out of the room to do her own little research and mission.


    Trusting Charlotte and believing that she would handle everything, Ava crashed on the bed to take a short nap until her angry boyfriend arrived home but little did she know that there was a big problem all ready to knock at the door.


    ¡­.


    Approximately fifteen minutes later, Charlotte entered Ava''s room again. "Girl I did find out something but I don''t want to give me a half full information so I''ll step out for a bit to meet someone. I won''t be gone for long, okay?"


    When Ava raised her thumb at her, she chuckled, "I think you should think of something that will help in calming your boyfriend down."


    Resting her chin on her elbow, Ava sighed, "Well, I do have plans of giving him whatever he wants later."


    "So your ultimate idea of coaxing your boyfriend to have s.e.x with him with some BDSM?" When Ava nodded her head, Charlotte grinned, "That is awesome, you go girl. That literally and always works like a charm."


    "I know," Ava beamed.


    Glancing at her watch, Charlotte sighed, "Alright, I need to go now and since it''s gonna be a wild night for the two of you, I''ll feed you in with the details tomorrow morning."


    "Alright, I''ll see you later then."


    After Charlotte left, Ava was about to call Calvin when the doorbell rang. Since both Calvin and Charlotte had access to the apartment, Ava wondered who it was before making her out of the room, towards the main door.


    ¡­


    Living room.


    As soon as she opened the door, Ava widened her eyes in shock when she saw the least expected person standing right in front of her holding a basket in her hand.


    "M-Mrs Lewis¡ª" Ava stuttered.


    Raising her brows, Naomi Lewis, Calvin''s mother doubtfully inquired, "Aren''t you Ava Stewart, Rebecca Stewart''s daughter?"


    Vigorously nodding her head, Ava bowed down like she was a pleasant who was greeting a Queen which made things even more awkward. Cursing herself for doing that, she was thinking of a way to rectify her stupid movement when Naomi curiously inquired, "Does your back hurt honey?"


    "Oh yes, absolutely yes and it''s getting terrible as I am growing¡­.old," Ava explained.


    Scrunching her brows, she scoffed, "Old? But aren''t you just twenty-four?"


    "Yes, I am twenty-four but my back makes me feel like sixty." Realizing that they were still standing at the doorstep, she quickly invited Naomi in. "Oh please, come in."


    Without saying anything, Naomi stepped into the apartment and started looking around. "Where is Calvin?"


    "He stepped out for a bit, I should go call him." Without waiting for her reply, Ava rushed towards her room to get her phone but only if things were meant to be that easy.


    "What is the rush? I mean why don''t you and I do some catching up first before calling Calvin over. What do you think?" Naomi asked before sitting on the couch.


    Left with no other choice, Ava reluctantly and nervously sat down before giving her a very weak smile.Though she had met Calvin''s mother before, that was a long time back when Sebastian and Calvin were in college. And apart from the fact that she was dating her son, she had also happened to find her in her son''s apartment which made things even more weird.


    Opening the basket, Naomi said, "I baked Cal''s favorite cookies, he says that they help in calming him down so maybe it will work for you too."


    Not wanting to anger or make her feel sour, Ava immediately did what she was asked to. Taking a cookie from the basket, she took a bite. "They are really delicious."


    "Thank you so much honey but I am still not very sure why I am giving you this cookie in my son''s apartment. Will you please take the trouble to explain a few things for a better understanding? Why don''t we start with the reason behind your presence here?" Naomi curiously wondered.


    Contemplating for a while, Ava stammered, "C-Can we wait for Calvin?"


    Pouting her lips, she thought for a while before completely disregarding the idea. "Yeah, I don''t think so I want him here."


    Gulping in nervousness, Ava quickly got up and rushed towards the kitchen. "I''ll get some warm milk to go with the cookies."


    ¡­.


    Inside the kitchen.


    Pacing back and forth for the zillionth time, Ava took deep breaths to calm herself down, Naomi''s presence was freaking her out and Calvin''s absence was making things worse. She was not ready to face all of this all by herself but she had no other choice. Her phone was in the bedroom so calling Calvin wasn''t an option and going out to actually talk to his mother all by herself wasn''t something that she preferred.


    After a lot of thinking, she poured a glass of milk for herself, calmed her soul down and stepped out of the kitchen, leaving everything on her guardian angel to handle.


    ¡­..


    Living room.


    "Ahh there you are." Placing the magazine down, Naomi smiled, "I was wondering if you got lost while looking for the milk."


    Before Ava could say something awkwardly stupid, Calvin unlocked the main door from the outside and entered the apartment.


    "Mom? What are you doing here?" Without waiting for his mother''s reply, he looked at Ava and frowned when he noticed the big glass of milk that she was holding. "Ava are you drinking milk at night? You know that it gives you a really bad hyperacidity, right?"


    Raising her brows, Naomi inquired, "You two sound very close."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 170 - 100% pure evil

    Ignoring her mother''s statement, Calvin inquired, "Why didn''t you call me before coming?"


    "Well, I did plan to call you at first but then I dropped the whole idea because I decided to surprise you. But you know what honey, I am actually very glad that I did. I mean, you come all the way here to surprise someone but you get very surprised instead, how fantastic." Looking at Ava, Naomi added, "Isn''t it honey?"


    Giving her a weak smile, Ava nodded her head. Calvin''s presence made her feel a little less nervous and better but the pressure was still undying.


    "Mom¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Naomi got up and excitedly ran towards her son, "Cut the crap big guy and tell me the truth." Without waiting for his reply, she beamed, "Are you both sleeping together?"


    "Mom¡ªWhat is wrong with you?" Calvin frowned at his mother''s weirdly strange behaviour.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Naomi gave her son a dismissive wave of her hand. "Oh come on, I come to meet my son at this hour only to find a beautiful woman in his apartment and you want me to actually not think that you are not sleeping with her?"


    Pinching the bridge of his nose, Calvin sighed, "Mom, it''s not what you think, okay? We have been dating each other for months now."


    Scrunching her brows, she placed her hand on her hip and queried, "So are you telling me that you are not only sleeping with Rebecca Stewart''s daughter but also dating her?"


    Not liking the expression on his mother''s face, Calvin slowly nodded his head expecting her to lecture him but completely contrary to what he had thought, Naomi started cheering and clapping her hands.


    Bouncing in her toes, she punched the air and started laughing hysterically, "Right on your face bitch." Slumping on the couch, she stretched her legs and sighed in satisfaction, "Ahh the feeling of bamboozling Rebecca Stewart feels so great, I feel like I am floating in thin air."


    Calvin who was yet to come out from the state of shock, quickly composed himself and curiously inquired, "Mom, what is happening?"


    Taking a cookie from the basket, Naomi grinned proudly, "This is your mother''s victorious moment son."


    "And how is that?"


    "What are you talking about? You are dating Ava so this is like a direct stab on that Rebecca bitches ass and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Calvin frowned, "Mom, please watch what you are saying."


    Realizing that Ava was also present, Naomi turned towards her and gasped, "I am so sorry sweetheart but I don''t have any kind of problem with you, it''s just that your mother that bi¡ª"


    "Mom."


    Clearing her throat, she rephrased her sentence, "I mean you mother is very witchy and she has this very annoying habit of looking down on people. The way she talks tempts me to just cut her tongue off and¡ª"


    "I think that is enough mom, we get it." Though he knew that there were many people who did not like Rebecca Stewart, he had no idea that his mother was one of them and he didn''t like how his mother was dissing his girlfriend''s mom right on her face.


    "Yeah right, I am sorry for that, I just tend to get carried away whenever someone mentions her name. Anyway, does your mother know that you are dating my son? But wait a minute, I did hear something about your engagement to Lola''s son." Giving either of them a chance to say anything, Naomi chuckled, "Well I guess it''s shiy because you are dating my son."


    "Yes thank you, that is indeed shit," Ava sighed before looking at Calvin who had been fussing about it for a long time.


    "So does she know?" When Ava shook her head, Naomi beamed again. "Ahh fantastic, can I tell her?"


    "No mom you can''t," Calvin retorted.


    "Ah why not? Don''t you both want to see that f.u.c.k.i.e.d up look on Rebecca''s face and¡ª" Stopping midway, Naomi awkwardly cleared her throat and tried to make her intentions a little less obvious. "I mean, the sooner you will tell everyone, the better."


    Contemplating for a while, Ava explained, "We haven''t told anyone about us yet, only a few people know including you."


    Thinking for quite some time, Naomi raised her brows, "Well, this is even better. I will let her gloat and gloat about everything and then BAM¡ª" Clapping her hand once again, she exclaimed, "Ah this is so exciting."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Calving sighed, " You are behaving like a small kid."


    Giving him a ''whatever you say, I don''t care'' look, Naomi smiled at Ava. "Darling, I don''t have any issues with you or Sebastian, you both are sweethearts unlike that mother of yours, she is 100% pure evil."


    After taking a deep breath, she smiled and got up to give her son a hug. "You both have all my support, just continue doing what you are and when the time comes, just call me so that I can tell everyone including the heavens about you both."


    "Thanks mom, this really means a lot. We were actually very worried thinking how everyone would take this news so¡ª"


    Squeezing Calvin''s cheeks, she smiled, "Have I ever stopped you from doing anything in your life? I mean, I kept defending you even when you were flinging around like a man whore so what makes you think that I will not support you when you finally decided to settle down with a beautiful woman like Ava who is also Rebecca Stewart''s daughter."


    Pulling away, she gave Ava a hug and patted her back. "Don''t worry about anything honey, even if your mother kicks you out of the house, we have enough wealth to give you the lavish life you deserve."


    Without waiting for anyone''s reply, Naomi grabbed her purse before buttoning her coat. "Now if you both excuse me, I have to go home to celebrate this joyous occasion with some wine and my favorite fat-free cheesecake."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 171 - New furry enemy

    "Don''t forget to give me a call, okay? And bring Ava for dinner someday, your father will definitely love your choice," she exclaimed before walking out of the apartment.


    After Naomi happily left, Ava breathed a sigh of relief and slumped up on the couch. "Okay, that wasn''t the reaction I was expecting."


    Grabbing her hand, he sat down beside her and planted a kiss in the back of her hand. "I am sorry for mom''s weird behaviour, she is usually not like this but though she kept cursing your mom which she shouldn''t have and I will definitely talk to her about it later, I think she really likes you."


    Wrapping her arms around his waist, she snuggled closer, "Well, at least my mother unknowingly did something really perfect for me and your mother is really very sweet Cal, I like her."


    Kissing the top of her head, he stated in a very assuring tone, "I am very sure that she would have willingly accepted our relationship even if you weren''t Rebecca Stewart''s daughter." Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he apologized, "I am sorry, I think I might have overreacted. I just lost my cool when I heard the whole fiancee thing, though I know it isn''t your fault but it still bummed me out."


    "It''s alright, even I would have reacted the same way or may be worse if I had heard something similar about you." cupping his cheek, she added, "But don''t stress over it, I''ll take care of it."


    "But how?"


    "Charlotte is helping me find out who started the rumour. Since mom isn''t here, I don''t think she is involved so I have a feeling that it''s someone from Nathan''s side," Ava explained.


    Intertwining their hands together, he chuckled, "I think I was very wrong about Charlotte, she is not as bad as I had thought."


    "She is not bad at all, she is actually very kind and helpful but she can be very bitchy when needed," she chuckled.


    "Hmm she isn''t home, right?" When she shook her head, he slowly caressed her arm. "I think you should do something to make me feel a little less insecure."


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she smiled, "Hmm, I think I should."


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s and Ellie''s place.


    With his arms folded in the front and with a very expression on his face, Sebastian was sulking for almost an hour now, occasionally sending daggers to Ellie and Boji who were enjoying their cuddly time together.


    After having dinner, he was pretty excited to officially cuddle with his girlfriend to sleep but his dreams were fisted into tiny pieces by his new fury enemy who suddenly decided not to leave the bed and his room at all. No matter how hard he tried to send her away, Boji refused to even move a muscle.


    When petting and coaxing her to leave for almost an hour did not work, Sebastian decided to use some force and take her downstairs but as soon as he lifted her up, the little fury enemy started whimpering very pitifully which melted Ellie''s heart and she insisted on letting her stay for the night or as much as she wanted.


    Deceived by Boji''s innocent face, he let her stay but little did he know that it was the biggest mistake which completely ruined his plans.


    "El, I think we should place her in the bed now," he suggested.


    Caressing Boji''s soft fur, Ellie answered, "She just fell asleep, I don''t think so we should disturb her and there is enough room for her to sleep here right?"


    Glaring at the little thing who was calmly relaxing on his girlfriend''s chest, he gritted his teeth and grumpily lied down before turning to the other side.


    "Seb, do you think we should take her to the vet tomorrow?"


    "Why vet? She seems okay, is she having a fever?" he inquired.


    "No she isn''t, I was just wondering if anything is wrong because she is acting very clingy today." Pausing for a while, she curiously asked, "Do you think it''s because we aren''t giving her the amount of attention she needs? Do you think she is feeling lonely?"


    Thinking for a while, he raised his brows and started grinning. Shifting closer, he caressed Boji''s head and answered, "Don''t worry honey, I''ll make sure that she doesn''t feel lonely anymore."


    ¡­.


    Next morning.


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian office.


    Pulling away, Ellie sighed, "I need to go now."


    Tightening his grip around her hip, he pleaded, "Five more minutes please." Before pressing his lips against her again.


    "I...seriously¡­need...to...go," she muttered in between the kisses.


    Reluctantly pulling away, he sighed, "I suddenly regret not taking a day off with you."


    Wiping off the smudged lipstick around his lips, she chuckled, "Seriously, what happened to my hard working boss."


    Brushing the tip of his nose against hers, he smiled, "Hmm let''s say that you melted him away with your cuteness."


    Fixing his tie, she patted his chest. "You are one smooth talker¡ª" Getting off his lap, she continued, "Now before I forget, you have a meeting with the finance department in about thirty minutes and you also have a lunch meeting with Mr Smith."


    Scrunching his brows, he complained, "Lunch? What is up with this lunch meeting? I always have lunch with you."


    "In my defence, you were the one who had fixed this meeting months ago, even before I had joined."


    Gritting his teeth, he knocked his own forehead and cursed, "Damn you old Sebastian, you were such an Idiot."


    Helplessly shaking her head, she chuckled, "Just go for the meeting because it''s very important, I''ll have lunch with Melissa or Patricia and then we will have a nice dinner together, okay?"


    Left with no other choice, he obediently nodded his head, "I cannot believe that I am going to have lunch with a douche and not my hot girlfriend."


    Walking out of the room, Ellie informed, "Noah is also going with you, it''s something that you both have to attend."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 172 - Better to be safe than sorrry

    After sometime, when Noah entered the room, Sebastian was sulking and reading something.


    "Woah, what''s with that look man? Did someone give you a wrong file?" he curiously inquired.


    "We have a lunch meeting today with Mr Smith, did you know about it?" Sebastian inquired.


    Noah sighed and nodded his head, "I had actually forgotten about it and was planning to take Mel in that new Italian restaurant for lunch but then she reminded me about the meeting so we had to drop the entire plan."


    Without waiting for his reply, Noah chuckled and pointed towards Sebastian''s lips. "Dude, you got lipstick all over your lips."


    Sebastian was about to wipe them with his hands when he stopped him. "That rubbing will just make it worse." Taking out a mini packet of wet wipes from his pocket, Noah carefully wiggled out a wipe and gave it to him. "Here use this, it will just remove the whole thing."


    Sniffing the wipe, Sebastian raised his brows. "Wow this smells great."


    "Uh huh its lavender, I always keep a mini packet of this and a few condoms in my wallet. I mean, you don''t know when you might need one so, better to be safe than sorry," Naoh explained.


    When Sebastian was busy wiping the stain off his lips with the fragrant wipes, Noah enthusiastically inquired, "So, did anything happen?"


    "What do you mean?"


    "Oh come on, as if you don''t know what I mean." When he gave him a weird look, Noah rolled his eyes, "Since you don''t know what I am talking about then you surely did not do it yet."


    The don''t know''s and didn''t do''s peaked Sebastian curiosity to know what exactly was his cousin talking about. "No seriously, what are you talking about?"


    "I am talking about s.e.x you kiddo," he snapped.


    "S.e.x? It''s hasn''t even been a week since we started dating and you are asking me whether I had s.e.x with my girlfriend?" Without waiting for his reply, Sebastian scoffed, "Dude, you need therapy."


    "What therapy? And FYI, you and Ellie are seeing each other for quite sometime now, you both live under the same roof and also share the same bed. You both have long crossed the whole shy phase and now its showdown time," Noah retorted.


    Shoving the doc.u.ment right on his face, Sebastian grunted, "I am not talking about anything s.e.x related with you so even if we do it, I am not telling anyone."


    "Dude, you don''t have to because it will be very evident. I am telling you, after s.e.x glow is very hard to hide and is one hunder percent noticeable." Pausing for a while, Noah continued, "Honestly, I think that it''s time for you to make a move and take your relationship to a different level. You people aren''t teenagers, you cant just kiss in your office, you are a big twenty-six year old guy, you should be having s.e.x on this desk."


    Tapping on the desk, he added, "Come on brother, have some hormones."


    Immersing himself into a very deep thought, Sebastian shook his head to shrug the unnecessary feeling off. "No, it''s too early."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting Noah off, he explained, "What Ellie and I have right now is actually quite pleasing and we are loving the pace we are at. I don''t want to rush into unnecessary things and¡ª"


    "Did you call the whole process of love making unnecessary? Seb tell me, do you and El share the same bed at night?"


    "We started doing that yesterday, why?" he curiously inquired.


    Getting up, Noah grinned and buttoned his suit. "Share the same for at least a week¡ªno you are a noob so may be a couple of weeks for you. Anyway, share it for a couple of weeks and then we can talk about this again."


    "What does that even mean?"


    "You''ll know, now if you excuse me, I have a meeting to attend." Without waiting for his reply, Noah walked out of room.


    ¡­.


    Pantry.


    Ellie sighed and helplessly shook her head when she saw how crowded the pantry was. The employees had surrounded the coffee machine and there was no way she could get through it.


    Dejected and unhappy for not being able to grab a cup of coffee for herself and Sebastian before the meeting, she was about to leave when one of the employees called her.


    "Ms Miller, you can go first if you want to," he politely offered.


    Looking at the crowd of people who were staring at her, Ellie awkwardly turned the tempting offer down. "Oh no it''s alright, I''ll come back later."


    "No please, we insist."


    "But you guys have been standing in the line for quite some time so it''s not okay for me to just barge in and break the line," Ellie explained, though she was finding their behaviour very odd but she still shrugged it off thinking that they were just being kind.


    "Oh no please don''t think that way, we are voluntarily letting you take our place and grab a cup of coffee for yourself," the employee insisted again to which Ellie decided to give in.


    "Hmm okay, you people are too kind but I will be needing two cups of coffee, one for Seb¡ª" stopping midway, she cleared her throat and continued, "I mean one for boss and the other one for me."


    "There is no problem Ms Miller, please go ahead."


    Smiling at everyone, Ellie made her way towards the coffee machine.


    "Dude, so is there something really going on between Ms Miller and the boss?" a male employee whispered to his colleague.


    "Don''t you know what happened to Morris? He got transferred to Arizona and he is having a really tough time adjusting there so if you don''t wanna end up like him, keep shut and let her take all the coffee she wants," the colleague warned his mate.


    "But I don''t think Ms Miller is someone who will tell on anyone until we don''t do something outrageous."


    ...

 Chapter 173 - Violated

    "Well, you never know what she might have said to the boss that he directly transferred him to that gruesome branch, better to be safe than sorry."


    "Who would''ve thought that even the men at our office would have such juicy gossip to discuss," Patricia butted in between the two male gossipers.


    Patricia''s sudden unexpected presence made them sweat and very nervous. "Hey Pat, when did you come?"


    "Right when you were bitching about boss''s assistant," she bluntly answered.


    "But we were not¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Patricia chuckled, "Bitching? Yes I know but the boss doesn''t know, does he? So what if I go and tell him about the nasty conversation you were having?"


    Not wanting to get their ass busted, the two male employees started requesting Patricia not to tell Sebastian anything.


    "Do you people even know why Morris got transferred?" Without waiting for their reply, she continued, "It''s because he left his department in the middle of working hours and was loitering around outside the boss''s office. Well, also because he was trying to flirt with Ellie."


    Inching closer, Patricia whispered, "He tried to flirt and got transferred, now imagine what will happen to you if I tell him about the bitching thing you men were doing?"


    Seeing the horrified expression on their faces, Patricia smirked in satisfaction. "Now have some balls and stop gossiping like women. Next time I hear anyone talking shit about Ellie and the boss, I''ll grab your necks."


    "Hey Pat, you are here too. Do you want me to make you some coffee too?" Ellie smiled.


    "Of course honey, I am sure that my dear colleagues will not mind." Looking around, she inquired, "Right guys?"


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, the same employee who had asked Ellie to go first answered, "Of course not Pat, you can take one first too."


    Without saying anything, Patricia made her way towards the coffee machine and stood beside Ellie.


    "I did not know that they all were so nice," Ellie smiled completely unaware of what was exactly going on.


    "Yup, you have no idea how nice they are."


    ¡­.


    Calvin and Ava''s place.


    "Morning love birds," Charlotte greeted them with smiles all over her face.


    "Good morning Char, when did you come back and you''re up early too," Ava smiled.


    Placing her cup on the table, she answered, "I came back late and I am up early because I went for a run." Looking at the two of them, she added, "Look at the two of you all happy together so I guess you don''t want to hear what I know."


    "You found out?" When she nodded her head, Ava excitedly sat down and inquired, "So tell me, who is it? Is it my mom? Or that bitch Britney was just talking garbage?"


    "Though Britney talks garbage all the time, this time she wasn''t. There is indeed a rumour going on about you being engaged with that Nathan guy, who by the way is a cheapskate. Do you have any idea how many times he has tried to hit on me? Pfft like as if I am interested in his lazy ass." Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "Anyway, let''s come to the main point, it''s Nathan''s family who started the rumour."


    Ava frowned and pursed her lips before gritting her teeth, "What? Why would they do that?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, Charlotte gave her a very easy answer, "Well it isn''t that hard to guess." Pausing for a while, she added, "You leech off your family."


    "How does that even make sense?"


    "Stewart Group is a really big company Ava and any kind of connection with it can benefit other struggling companies a lot," Calvin explained who was even more mad now.


    Thinking for quite some time, she curiously inquired, "But isn''t Nathan''s family already rich?''


    "If you marry Nathan then both your families will benefit from it which will bring in more money, what kind of an idiot will say no to some extra cash flowing into their accounts?" When she saw a huge frown in Calvin''s face, she quickly added, "Well of course, both your brothers will obviously say no to such lecherous collaborations. I mean why do they need any kind of extra support?"


    Pinching the bridge of her nose, Ava sighed, "I''ll ask Seb to take care of it then."


    "Uh huh, that is a very wise choice, you can ask him to sue that creepy guy for falsely spreading rumour and gaining profits," Charlotte added.


    Nodding her head in agreement, Ava sighed, "Hmm anyway, Calvin and I want to take you out for dinner today as a thankyou for everything that you have done for us."


    "Tonight?" When they nodded their heads, Charlotte hesitated for a while before suggesting, "Why don''t we go tomorrow and not tonight?"


    "Okay, no problem but why not today? You are going somewhere?"


    Taking a bite of the bread, Charlotte nodded her head, "Yeah, going out with a friend."


    "Ooh a date? Who is it?" she excitedly inquired.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Charlotte reluctantly answered, "Hmm I don''t think so you know him."


    ¡­..


    Stewart International Group.


    "What are you smiling at?" Ellie chuckled.


    "I am still waiting for the details babe, tell me everything," Melissa beamed, she was asking Ellie each and every detail about her romantic moments with Sebastian.


    "There is nothing to say Mel, I have already told you everything that has happened."


    Rolling her eyes, Melissa puffed her cheeks and started whining, "Am I your best friends and I deserve details El. I mean, yes Ava, June and now Charlotte are close to us too but we share a different equation. Remember how we used to share everything with each other in high school but now, you are hiding things from me." Looking at her with a cute pout on her lips, she complained, "I feel so wronged and my rights as a best friend is being violated."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie chuckled, "You are so dramatic."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 174 - Favorite child

    Dramatically flicking her hair, Melissa chuckled, "I know but forget about that and tell me what happened between you and Seb after you both went home."


    "Nothing happened but we did make out in his office today in the morning for the first time," Ellie proudly grinned.


    "If you had told me this when we were still in highschool I would''ve squealed and jumped in excitement, maybe begged you to give me details but we are twenty-six El, twenty-six we are supposed to squeal when either of us try out a new position with our partners." Helplessly shaking her head, Melissa added, "I don''t know when that will happen though."


    "I think we are no where near to the s.e.x phase. Sebastian, well he is different and I am sure that¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Melissa chuckled, "Don''t tell me that you think he isn''t interested in s.e.x or let me rephrase that, he isn''t interested in making love with you."


    When Ellie gave her a weird look, she explained, "No matter how sober Seb is, he is still a man with a d.i.c.k Ellie. And if his organs and hormones function properly, you''ll start sensing the changes that will occur on his body when you are near him."


    "You are unbelievable." Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "Not everything is about s.e.x."


    "I am not saying that s.e.x is everything but trust me, it might bot be everything but it''s definitely something. People become much more close after being intimate with one another babe, trust me. Going to the s.e.x phase isn''t weing but it actually means that the couple love each other and cant wait to¡ª" Stopping midway, Melissa sighed, "May be you think it''s nothing important now but you''ll realized it soon. Oh God, I can''t wait for that day when you''ll come to me complaining about how s.e.x.u.a.l frustration."


    "What? Why will I complain about my s.e.x.u.a.l frustration to you even if I have one?" Ellie chuckled.


    Shrugging her shoulders, she grinned, "I don''t know, I just think that you will."


    "Look, I am not against s.e.x or the whole process of making love, I just dont want to rush things with Sebastian. May be we will end up doing it eventually but not now."


    "Fine but if you ever need any tips, count one me."


    "What kind of tip?" Ava inquired.


    "Nothing, I am just asking Ellie to take tips from me when she will have s.e.x with your brother," Melisa informed.


    Pouting her lips, Ava sighed and sat down beside Ellie, "Too bad you are dating my brother so my involvement in the whole s.e.x talk will make it very awkward."


    "Hmm that is true, why are you here?" Melissa inquired.


    Glancing at the watch, Ava sighed, "I need to talk to Seb about something really important."


    "Seb is out for a lunch meeting and I think that is going to take some time," Ellie informed.


    Cursing herself for not visiting her brother in the morning, she asked, "Okay is Noah here? I can talk to him¡ª"


    "Noah and Seb are together but what is it? I can pass on the message if you want."


    Groaning in frustration, Ava explained, "You girls have no idea how f.u.c.k.i.e.d up I am feeling right now and it''s all because of that bastard."


    "Okay, walk us through this honey," Ellie suggested.


    After explaining the entire matter which involved Nathan and her mother, Ava sighed, "My mother just ruined my life."


    "But that Nathan guy is spreading rumours right? So how is this your mom''s fault?" Ellie curiously inquired.


    "Who do you think introduced me to that d.i.c.khead? My mother, so whose fault is it? Again my mother. She is a huge bummer in my life and even though she is far away from me, her strong aura is still messing up with my plans." Though Ava knew that her mother wasn''t the one who started the rumour but she was sure that her mother had definitely heard about it. And the fact that she chose to stay shut and not do anything about it was getting on her nerves.


    "Are sure that Rebecca isn''t involved in this? I mean why would someone start such a strong rumour without any kind of guarantee? There had to be something that gave them the strength to start it," Melissa pointed out.


    Snapping her fingers, Ava grunted, "Exactly, what is said makes one hundred percent sense. Though she isn''t here and did not start the rumour, I am sure that she definitely approved it."


    Not liking how they were assuming things, Ellie suggested, "Guys I don''t think that it''s right to jump to a conclusion and assume things like this. I mean, she isn''t even here and maybe she has no idea what is going on."


    "Geez El, stop defending here and when the right time comes, she is going to give you the hardest time because let''s face it, you are dating her favourite child. Her little boy she is always proud of and who always listens to her is now listening to you so you are definitely going to be her next target," Ava scoffed.


    "I agree on this with Ava," Melissa added.


    Ellie sighed and nodded her head, "I know and I am equally worried about that. But Seb has assured me a few things so I am not worried."


    "Yes, you can rely on my brother completely for this because he is the only person who can handle them. I mean even I rely on him so many things so don''t stress about it." Pressing her hand on the table, Ava continued, "But I am telling you Ellie, you can''t be all goody old shoes with her. Trust me babe, I have been living with her for twenty-four years and she is not someone who will melt or change your attitude towards you just because you are sweet and nice to her."


    "Uh huh, she tends to dominate people who are kind to her," Melissa added.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 175 - Rough Childhood

    Thinking that her point wasn''t clear, she decided to add an example, "I mean when I first started dating Noah, I was very kind and sweet to her because you know she was Noah''s aunt and yada yada yada¡­..but she was always mean to me. Like she never did anything to hurt me physically by the way she talked to me and looked at me was just too much to handle. You can say when a person is genuinely sweet and when someone is faking it, I could feel her fake sweetness from a distance."


    "And then what did you do?" Ellie curiously inquired, though Sebastian had already assured that nothing was going to be wrong and he would handle everything, she still wanted to figure out if she could make things right with his mom when it was the right time. She wanted Rebecca to like her without taking any help from Sebastian.


    "Nothing, I just stopped being nice and started pretending that I am sweet to her just like he did," Melissa answered with a ''why should I care about that bitch??? expression on her face.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ava sighed, "I am telling you guys that there is nothing that can satisfy my mother. Like when I was small, I was asked to take part in competitions and was always expected to win. If you win the second prize, you will be frowned upon and lectured but if you win the first prize, you will still be lectured again saying that it''s nothing so great and there are better things to do in life which is even more important. Satisfying them wasn''t something that I could ever do."


    Reminiscing her awful childhood still gave Ava shivers and she felt very sour. Though whatever happened in her childhood was in the past now, all she wanted was a happy future where there would be no one to judge or frown upon her but she could only wish. Despite being an a.d.u.l.t, her mother still kept on interfering in her life and kept making things worse.


    "What about your father? Did he not say anything?" Ellie curiously asked. All the stories that she had heard about Sebastain''s mother definitely did not give her a very good picture but everything she heard about Rebecca''s awful acts, it made her wonder why Sebastian''s father never objected or stopped his wife from making their kids life miserable.


    "Dad? Pfft he is just like mom, he did not make things easy as well especially for Sebastian. I mean man he had it very rough and hard. Why do you think my brother turned out to be like he was before you just barged in and added some real life into his boring one? The only happy time that we had were during our breaks when we used to visit our grandparents."


    Placing her hand on hers, Ellie sighed, "I can say that it wasn''t a really nice childhood experience." Spreading her arms towards Ava, she added, "Let me give you a warm comforting hug."


    "Ahh thank you so much El, I really needed one." Hugging her back, Ava said in a very assuring tone, ''And don''t stress about anything okay? You have Seb and everyone''s support so things are gonna be way easier for you."


    ¡­..


    4:00 pm


    Glancing at the watch, Ellie frowned before slumping on the couch. It had been a couple of hours since Naoh came back to the office from the lunch meeting but there was still no sign of Sebastian. She tried calling him but it kept directing him to his voicemail which was very annoying.


    "Hey, is the boss not here yet?" Patricia inquired before walking into the office.


    Ellie sighed and shook her head, "No, the call isn''t going through either."


    "Maybe he got stuck somewhere, did he tell you anything?"


    "Uh huh nothing, he had no agenda after the meeting so I wonder where he is at." Thinking for a while, she sighed in dejection and got up. "I''ll go finish some work by then, maybe he will show up after some time. Did you have anything important to discuss with him?"


    "Yes but since he is not herr, I''ll discuss it with Noah."


    "Alright then, I''ll be in my office if you need me," Ellie informed before walking out of Sebastian''s office.


    ¡­.


    Calvin and Ava''s place.


    Charlotte''s room.


    With a small pout on her lips, Charlotte was intently staring at the dresses for a long time now but she still couldn''t decide which one she should wear for her ''FRIENDLY'' meet with Brandon which was scheduled in a few hours.


    Though she said she wasn''t excited for it, she still felt a need to dress her best like it was a real date with a man she admired.


    Thinking that she had probably gone nuts, she still ended up picking her favorite and the most alluring red dress which did not make her calves or waist look thicker but it definitely made her b.o.o.b.s look bigger and better.


    "I also wanted you to pick that one but I didn''t say anything because I wanted to see if our tastes match and guess what, it does," Brandon cheered.


    Turning towards the door, Charlotte gasped and leaped backwards. "Oh dear God, what on earth are you doing here?"


    With his hands tucked in his pocket, he was leaning against the door slab wearing a blue blazer along with a full white shirt matched with tan fitted grey pants and brown boots.


    This entire look was worth ogling and starring at and if not for her teeny tiny woman ego, she would''ve definitely pounced upon him.


    Taking her eyes off the tasty looking man, she placed her hands on her lips and inquired, "What the hell are you doing here?"


    "What? We have a date, remember?"


    "Yes I know that but how did you get in? I remember locking the door," she snapped.


    Walking inside the room, he unbuttoned his suit and made himself comfortable on the bed.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 176 - Surprise

    Pouncing on the for a couple of times, he commented, "Now this a bouncy and comfortable bed, I bet that it''s a very cozy and comfortable thing to sleep on."


    "Seriously how did you enter the apartment?"


    Supported his head on his elbow, he grinned, "The door was open so¡ª"


    "How is that possible? I remember locking it," Charlotte frowned, wondering how could that be possible.


    "Well, you also remember saying that this isn''t a real date but yet you were all busy closing the right outside," he chuckled.


    Pursing her lips, she rolled her eyes at him. "I always try to look good even when I am going to the parlour because that is who I am."


    "Uh huh and you are a very bad liar."


    "You¡ª" Gritting her teeth, she snapped, "I am not lying and look at you dressed so well, you are the one who looks the most excited for this so-called friendly meeting."


    Not denying or defying her accusations, Brandon nodded his head, "Uh huh because I am excited, not gonna deny that. I spent hours selecting and trying on a few blazers, pants and shoes of course and then finally settled down with this one."


    Grabbing her red dress, she scoffed, "Why to take so much trouble for a friendly meet? I was initially not planning to do a lot but since you are looking so¡­..good, I need to look better than you because I don''t want you to outshine me."


    Placing his hand on his chest, he smiled, "I will be honoured to get outshined by the Goddess."


    "Alright, now you don''t have to act all cheeky." Not wanting to make him realize that his pickup line actually worked, she lowered her head and rushed towards the washroom.


    Grinning from ear to ear, Brandon took out the key which Calvin had given him. "Worked like a charm."


    ¡­.


    Stewart International Group


    7:00 pm.


    Ellie''s office.


    Ellie squealed when someone grabbed her waist and swirled her around before keeping her on the desk.


    Giving her a quick peck on her lips, Sebastian grinned, "Did you miss me?"


    Slapping his hand away, she jerked her head to the other side and crossed her arms in the front. "I am not talking to you because I am an angry girlfriend who has been ignored by her boyfriend all day."


    "What? All day? I was just away for five hours¡ª" stopping midway, he raised his brows, "Wow, was I away for that long? That is not nice."


    "Yes and that is why I am mad, how can you not think of me all day?"


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, he sighed, "I am sorry, it''s not like I forgot about you, that can never happen but I was busy doing something and that took a little more time than expected."


    "What were you doing?" she curiously asked.


    "Ah yes, we need to go home for that." Without waiting for her reply, he grabbed her bag from the chair and slung it over his shoulder before scooping her into his arms.


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she chuckled, "That bag over your shoulder looks funny."


    "Really? I think that it suits me."


    ¡­..


    Calvin and Ava''s place


    When Calvin arrived home, Brandon and Ava were busy playing cards.


    "You are gonna lose again," Brandon chuckled.


    "Well, we will see."


    Keeping the keys on the table, Calvin curiously inquired, "What are you doing here?"


    "Who? Brandon?" When he nodded his head, Ava answered, "I don''t know, he was already here when I arrived.''


    Sitting beside Ava, Calvin gave the unexpected visitor a confused look. "Dude what are you doing here?"


    Shuffling the cards, he answered, "I am here to take Charlotte out for a friendly meet."


    "You mean a date?"


    "Yes for me, No for here," Brandon smiled.


    Raising her brows, Ava grinned, "Ah so you are the man she is going out with? Impressive, that is a quick move pal."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Brandon inquired, "so she told you that she is going out with me?"


    "Not exactly but we wanted to take her out for a dinner treat but he turned us down saying that she has plans for the night. Well, I thought she was going out somewhere with her friends but I had no idea it was you." Pausing for a while, she inquired, "So, are you making a move?"


    "What move?" Charlotte asked.


    Turning towards her, Brandon widened his eyes and kept staring at her with his mouth wide open.


    She was wearing a deep V cut red dress which had a long side slit up to her thighs. The dress perfectly hugged her waist, making her curves even more distinct.


    Inching closer, Ava whispered, "Close your mouth before you choke on something."


    Coming out of his daze, he quickly composed himself and quickly got up.


    Walking towards her, he stammered, "Y-You l-look¡­.I mean you¡ªWow."


    Looking at the awestruck expression on his face, Charlotte blushed.


    "Ahh look at the two of you all ready to go on a date." Showing them her thumb, Ava grinned, "You both look awesome, all the best for the date."


    ¡­


    Inside Sebastian''s car


    "Is it something we can eat?"


    "No,"


    "Hmm something I can wear?"


    "No,"


    Tapping her finger on her chin, Ellie asked, "Is it a stuffed toy?"


    Sebastian chuckled and vigorously shook his head. "Now stop with all the guessing, we will be home any minute now so you can see it yourself."


    "First you ignore me for the entire day and now you are not telling me what kind of surprise it is." Looking at him, she complained, "Don''t you love me anymore?" She had been making random guesses about the surprise that Sebastian had planned for her but no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t guess it right.


    Shrugging his shoulders, he answered, "What is the use of the surprise if I tell you about it beforehand?"


    "Fine, don''t tell me but when I will plan a surprise for you, I won''t tell you either."


    ....

 Chapter 177 - The surprise

    Lifting his shoulder in a half shrug, Sebastian agreed, "Okay, fine by me."


    Sensing that nothing could persuade him from telling her anything about the surprise, she sighed and gave up, "Fine but you are very mean."


    "And I love you," he chuckled.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian and Ellie''s place.


    Hooking her arms around his, she tried to coax him again after they entered the elevator. "We are already here so why don''t you tell me something about it, I promise to act surprised."


    "We are almost there honey, are you sure you still want some hint?" When she nodded her head, he explained, "Okay so it''s something that you will definitely like and Boji will be happy too."


    "So it''s a surprise for Boji and me?" When he pinched her cheeks, she frowned deeper, "Now I am even more curious." Pressing the elevator button again, she complained, "Why is this elevator so slow today?"


    As soon as the elevator door opened, Ellie rushed inside only to find Boji playing with her toys all by herself. Looking around, she pouted her lips, "Where is the surprise?"


    When Sebastian shrugged his shoulder, she sighed, "Really? Now do I have to look for the surprise?" Without waiting for his reply, she scooped down and picked up Boji in her arms. "Come on sweetheart, we have a surprise to hunt and¡ª" Stopping midway she frowned.


    Looking at Boji who looked and felt very different, she scrunched her brows. "Seb, I may sound crazy but I think Boji isn''t Boji."


    "Uh huh because Boji is here," he answered.


    Turning towards Seb who was holding Boji in his arms, she widened her eyes in shock before looking at the puppy she was holding. "Then this¡ª"


    "That is Bojo, our new family member," he smiled before walking towards her.


    Taking Bojo from her hand, he explained, "Remember you told me that maybe Boji is feeling lonely because we don''t give her the time and attention she needs?" When she nodded her head, he continued, "So to not make her feel lonely, I brought her a friend she can play with. Bojo is of the same age as her and they like each other already."


    "Is this why you were out all day?"


    "Yes, I had to pick Bojo up and then take him to the vet for the shots, bought him a belt which is similar to the one Boji is wearing and then brought him here and see if they click. After arranging everything, I went back to the office to fetch you." Sebastian smiled waiting for the excited hug like he had anticipated but completely contrary to his expectations, Ellie jumped excitedly and started hugging the two little ones completely ignoring the big guy.


    "Ahh this is so lovely, we have two of them now," she excitedly beamed.


    ¡­.


    Inside Brandon''s car.


    "So, what do you wanna go for out date?"


    "This isn''t a date, its¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Brandon chuckled, "Alright, it''s just a friendly meet blah blah blah blah, now tell me where do you wanna go?"


    Tapping her fingers on the seat belt, Charlotte inquired, "I wanna ask you a question first, why are you doing this?"


    "Doing what?"


    "All of this." Pausing for a while, she explained further, "First you keep requesting me to sleep with you and then when we share a tent together, you don''t even make a move. Then we ask me out for this date and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "Ah ha, you also think that this is a date."


    "Let me finish and the point isn''t whether this is a date or not, the main point is what you want. What do you want from me?" Turning towards him, she continued, "Brandon Hawick isn''t a kind of guy who will do all of this and yet you are constantly ignoring my exposed thigh and worried about where we should go for our date."


    Without waiting for his reply, she sighed, "What do you want from me? Just be direct and tell me straight away, you are freaking me out this way."


    "Right now I want you to choose a place you wanna go," he answered.


    "I heard that there is a new Italian restaurant, do you like Italian food?" When Brandon nodded his head, she added, "We can go there."


    Looking at Charlotte who was now scrolling through her phone, he silently sighed and helplessly shook his head.


    ¡­.


    The Italian restaurant.


    As soon as they got down from the car, Charlotte scoffed when she saw a couple in the parking lot.


    Sensing her irritation, Brandon curiously inquired, "What is it? What happened?" When she kept staring at them, he raised his brows, "You know them?"


    "That''s my ex, I don''t know what he''s doing here, I thought he left L.A for good," she explained. The nostalgic feeling of seeing the man who she was once in love with made her feel sucked and weird.


    "Oh, so you still have some feelings for him?"


    "Of course not, I took my revenge already but¡ª" Stopping midway, she sighed, "Alright let''s go."


    Stopping her, she grabbed her hand and inquired, "Okay tell me what is bugging you? If you have already taken care of it then why is he still affecting you."


    "It''s nothing, you will think that I am crazy."


    "I already know that you are crazy so it''s not gonna change anything." Swinging her hand, he insisted, "Oh come on, you can tell me."


    "I want to punch him right on his face," she blurted out.


    "Pfft what? A punch?" Examining her hand, he added, "Can these delicate hands throw a punch?"


    Rolling her eyes, she scoffed, "Don''t misunderstand me as a delicate woman, I can break bones too."


    Rubbing his chin, he asked, "So punching him will make you feel better?"


    Shrugging his shoulders, she answered, "Yes maybe, I wanted to do it for a long time so it will definitely make me feel at peace."


    Taking off his blazer, Brandon placed it on the hood of his car. "Alright, follow me."


    "Follow you for what?"


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, he stated, "Didn''t you say that punching him will make you feel better? So we are going there to punch him."


    She widened her eyes in shock and quickly grabbed his hand to stop him. "Are you serious? So are you just gonna go there and punch him?"


    Shrugging his shoulder, he answered, "Oh no, you are going to punch him right on the face like you want to."


    "Okay that is very funny," Letting out a hysterical laugh, Charlotte suddenly scrunched her face, "Okay and now I am freaking out because I think you are serious."


    "I am very serious, I''ll go there and take care of things before calling you over, you''ll punch him and then we will quickly evacuate the place." Without waiting for her reply, he patted his shoulder and started walking towards the man.


    "Brandon wait¡ª"


    Patting the man''s shoulder, Brandon inquired, "Do you know Charlotte?"


    Giving him a weird look, the man frowned, "Who are you? And what do you want?"


    Without wasting any time, he threw a punch right on his face.


    Holding his nose which was surely bleeding, the man yelled, "Hey are you crazy?" Turning towards the woman he was with, he added, "Babe, call the police."


    "Are you crazy? I am not getting involved in this mess, I am leaving." Without waiting for the man''s reply, the woman ran away.


    Grabbing the man''s collar, Brandon smiled, "Well, I actually don''t know you but you are a jerk and deserved this punch but there is one more person who wants to punch you so¡ª"


    "Are you f.u.c.k.i.n.g crazy? How can you just¡ª"


    "Charlotte?"


    Narrowing her eyes, Charlotte scoffed, "Derek."


    Rolling his eyes, Brandon snapped, "Now will you please punch him so that we can go have something to fill our empty void?"


    "Just let him go, I don''t wanna," she stated before walking away.


    "Why? Because you still have feelings for him?" Brandon inquired.


    "What? Of course not, I don''t feel anything for him," she frowned a little annoyed with Brandon who kept asking whether she had feelings for her ex or not.


    "Then prove it, punch him and prove it that you don''t have feelings for him." Brandon said in a very challenging tone. He had no idea why exactly he wanted her to punch her ex, he was unsure if it was because he wanted her to feel better or because it would make him feel more assured.


    When Charlotte glared at him, he tightened his grip around Derek''s collar and shoved him forward. "He is right here, do it now or reject not doing it for your entire life."


    Balling her hand into a fist, she threw a punch right on Derek''s nose and knocked him down on the floor.


    "Ouch¡­" Charlotte while holding her wrist with her other hand. She got so carried away by Brandon''s provocation that she might have actually punched too hard.


    "Are you okay?" Brandon quickly inquired before examining her hand.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 178 - Pure inetntions

    Groaning and rolling on the ground in pain, Derek was on the verge completely of passing out. His nose was bleeding very heavily with all the double punching which made him feel very dizzy.


    Just then someone arrived and shouted, "What happened here? What did you do to the man?"


    Without wasting any time, Charlotte grabbed Brandon''s hand and started dragging him away. "Run¡ª"


    "But the restaurant¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "Treat me a hot dog later, let''s get out of here."


    ¡­..


    Inside the car.


    Slumping on the passenger seat, Charlotte chuckled, "You are crazy."


    Shrugging his shoulders, he grinned, "And you really do punch hard." Pausing for a while, he inquired, "How is your hand? You looked like you were in pain a while ago."


    "It did hurt at that time but now i am okay," Looking at him, she beamed, "I had never done this kind of craziness ever in my entire life. I mean attacking a person in a public place is so absurd and not legal but I still had so much fun."


    Looking at her, he smiled, "I hope you got your closure now."


    "Closure?" Running her finger through her hair, she answered, "I got that years ago.'' Without waiting for his reply, she explained, "After I found that he was cheating on me, I asked my uncle to take away everything that he had and after that I never looked back. But I always had this strong urge to punch him down maybe because it was my uncle who helped me deal with me and I did not do a thing."


    "Why would anyone cheat on you?" When she looked at him, he elaborated his point. "I think he is really brainless to do such a thing. Getting a chance to date you and then f.u.c.k.i.n.g that up is really very dumb. Though I know I might never get that once in a lifetime opportunity but if I do, I would never f.u.c.k it like that."


    Wrapping a curl around her finger, she inquired, "And who said that you will never get a chance?"


    "Well I¡ª" Widening his eyes in shock, he tightened his grip around the steering wheel and tried very hard to suppress the strange overwhelming emotions that he was feeling. There were many women who had said that they wanted to date him and be with him but he never felt this excited and giddy because according to him, dating was a very boring and tiring thing to do. But despite all the thoughts and emotions, there he was getting all hyped up after Charlotte mentioned it.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian and Ellie''s apartment


    Sebastian''s room.


    When Ellie entered the room, Sebastian was sitting in the middle of the head with legs stretched in the front and with a proud grin on his face which was very hard to ignore.


    Picking up her night moisturizer from the dressing table, she sat on the edge of the table and smiled, "You look happy."


    Crawling towards her, he placed his head on her lap and sighed, "It feels so peaceful today, I feel like you are completely present here with me."


    "Why do I feel like you brought Boji a new friend because she was here the whole night and it kinda interrupted our alone time?" she inquired suspiciously.


    Looking at her with an innocent pout, Sebastian complained, "Don''t say that, do you think that I''ll get jealous of Boji, I am her father so how can I possibly be jealous of her?"


    Running her fingers through his hair, she smiled, "Okay, I am sorry for doubting your pure intention towards the welfare of our little Boji and Bojo."


    "Did you like the surprise? I know it was kinda lame but¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "That wasn''t lame at all Seb, I just loved it. Now Boji has a partner to play with so even if we are away, she won''t be all lonely and sad."


    "Well, the main point of the surprise was to make you both happy and since you are all smiles and Boji seems to be loving Bojo, mission accomplished."


    "So what do you get?" Bending down, she smiled, "How about a thank you kiss?"


    "I love thank you kisses."


    ¡­.


    Next day.


    "When did you hear about it?"


    "Day before yesterday when I ran into that bitch Briteny, she literally congratulated me out of nowhere and mocked me for not having an engagement ring," Ava scoffed before drawing her attention towards the pair of fluffy creatures who were playing with each other.


    "Is it just me or are there actually two Boji''s there?" she inquired.


    Passing her a glass of water, Ellie chuckled, "It''s not just you Ava, there are two of them for real."


    "Really? When did you guys get another one?" she excitedly inquired and without waiting for their reply, she added, "After they grow old and have babies, will you give me one of them?"


    "Yes sure but I think that will take sometime."


    "No hurry, they can take all the time they need." Glancing at the watch, Ava sighed, "Ahh I need to go to Noah and Melissa''s place as well so I''ll take my leave now."


    When she gave Sebastian a pleading look, he nodded his head and answered, "I''ll look into it so don''t worry."


    Giving him and Ellie a goodbye hug simultaneously, Ava swore, "Seriously, if you guys ever need help looking after these two babies of yours or any other thing, count me in."


    After she left, Ellie wrapped her arms around Sebastian''s waist. "You look upset."


    "Why does she keep doing this? I mean can''t she just let Ava enjoy her life for once?" Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "Marriage is a very big deal and the most important decision of anyone''s life so shouldn''t she let Ava decide whom she wants to marry? Why is she trying to force her choice and decision on her again? This is just so unfair and inappropriate."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 179 - Dead meat

    "When we were young, it was so tough for Ava. She wasn''t allowed to go out with her friends ever and even if she was, she was given a very pathetic deadline." Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "She couldn''t enjoy her highschool days like a normal girl does, this is why I always feel bad for her."


    Looking at him, Ellie smiled, "You both really care about each other."


    "What do you mean?"


    "We were talking about this yesterday and Ava told us how it was very tough for you because you couldn''t enjoy your childhood like Noah and other guys of your age." Intertwining their hands together, she further explained, "I know you both did not have a really normal childhood and there were many restrictions which were not necessary but there is no point dwelling over the past anymore."


    Pulling away, she sat up straight and continued, "I mean just think about it in a positive way, you both had your struggles but the main point is that you both are together, supporting each other in every little thing and that is what matters. It''s impossible to change the past or undo whatever you both have been through but now things are different, you both can stand up for each other now. You should always look at the brighter side Seb, that way you''ll always be happy."


    Caressing her cheek, he smiled, "I love you and I cannot wait to help you move in here completely."


    Resting her head on his chest, she inquired, "What will you do about this situation now? I mean about the rumour."


    "Hmm its not that tough, I''ll deal with it."


    Fidgeting with his fingers, she hesitantly suggested, "Don''t you think that you should at least talk to your mother first and see if she knows about it?" Without waiting for his reply, she further explained, "Maybe she has no idea what is happening and she is not involved in this, it''s not right to jump to a conclusion without any concrete proof."


    Thinking for a while, he sighed and nodded his head, "Hmm okay, I''ll talk to her before moving on with my plan but I am sure that even if she isn''t involved in this, she at least knows about the rumour."


    Giving him a quick peck on his lips, she smiled, "Just talk to her,okay? Now, I''ll go get ready."


    "We have to drop the two monsters at Owen''s." Looking at the two furry monsters who were busy chewing their toys, he sighed, "How are they always so energetic?"


    "Why don''t you ask them while I get ready?" she chuckled before walking towards the room.


    ¡­.


    Naoh and Melissa''s place.


    Looking around, Calvin frowned, "Are you sure that they called us here and not directly at the theatre?"


    Keeping the spare key to Noah and Melissa''s apartment inside her bag, Ava answered, "I am very sure that Mel had asked me to come here, she told me that we would leave together."


    Since Ellie and Sebastian would be busy shifting things from Ellie''s old apartment, Owen and June wanted to do their own thing while Brandon and Charlotte had their own plans, Calvin, Noah, Melissa and Ava decided to go out for a movie and then try out the new Italian restaurant later.


    "Let me check if they are really here or not¡ª"


    "Hmm I don''t think they are here." Picking up the note that Melissa had left them, Ava sighed, "I think this will take a while."


    Taking the note from her, he read it briefly before tossing it aside. "Hmm I think we have enough time to continue what we had to leave midway."


    Smacking his hand off her shoulder, she chuckled, "Are you serious? What if they come back?"


    "Did you just meet Mel and Noah? You know how they are and when Mel enters the supermarket to buy only one thing, she ends up buying lots of other things which takes lots of time. So???" Pulling her closer, he grinned, "I think we have lots of time in our hand."


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she chuckled, "You are crazy but this is turning me on even more."


    Without wasting any more time, both of them crashed on the couch and started making out. In fact, they were so engrossed with each other that they failed to hear a faint jiggling of keys that was coming from the main door.


    "Honey we will surely go back and buy the other things later," Noah sighed.


    "That would''ve taken just ten minutes but yet you kept nagging me to make it quick," Melissa retorted.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he added, "You know we have to go out with Ava and Calvin, I just don''t want to¡ª" Noah was forced to stop midway when Melissa sealed his mouth with her hand and gestured him to stay quiet.


    Following her sight when he saw two people carelessly making out on their couch, he widened his eyes in shock. He then gasped loudly when he realized who it was.


    Removing Melissa''s hand, he yelled, "What the f.u.c.k is happening here?"


    Completely taken aback by the sudden yelling, Ava and Calvin quickly let each other go and got up straight.


    "Ava, Cal¡ªthis, what the hell is wrong with the two of you?" Noah fumed.


    Crossing her hands in the front, Melissa frowned, "That is my couch, how can you both even think of having s.e.x there?"


    Nervously biting her lower lip, Ava tucked a lock of hair behind her ear and quickly hid behind Calvin.


    Storming towards them, Noah gritted his teeth and glared at Ava. "I''ll deal with you later but you¡ª" Fuming at Calvin, he snapped, "You are dead meat."


    "Woah man please calm down, let me explain¡ª"


    "What do you want to explain? Do you want to tell me how you were all over my sister in my house and on my couch? How could you even think of Ava that way? Sebastian and I, we trusted you with our sister but here you are all ready to bang her."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 180 - Grounded

    "Hey dude, what are you saying? I am not just banging her or anything like that, we are legit dating for months now," Calvin snapped and took several steps backwards just in case Noah would throw a punch right on his handsome face.


    With a huge frown on his face, Noah hissed, "What? Dating? You gotta be kidding me." Without waiting for anyone''s reply, he snapped, "What makes you think that I will believe you? And don''t tell me that you tow haven''t...yet¡ª"


    Giving him a half shrug, Calvin awkwardly answered, "Well now that is¡ª"


    Snapping his fingers at them, Noah started freaking out all over again, "Ah huh see, I told you. You are so dead Calvin and you are going to be more dead when I tell Sebastian about this."


    "Noah you can''t¡ª"


    Cutting Ava off, Noah fumed, "Zip it young lady because you are grounded."


    "What? You can''t ground me just like that,'' Ava snapped, she knew that the situation in which Noah found out about her secret relationship with Calvin wasn''t favourable or big brother friendly but she was still expecting some kind of support from him because according to her personal analysis, Noah was more understanding and cooler than Sebastian.


    "Oh yes I can and guess what? I just grounded you." Without giving Ava a chance to retort, Noah added, "And there is no way you are going back to his place and living with him, you are gonna stay here with me right under my nose."


    "Well, why don''t you keep her inside your pocket or even better, build a cage for her and just keep her there," Melissa snapped before placing her hand on Noah''s shoulder.


    "Honey they¡ª"


    "You are behaving all weirdly again Noah so what have I asked you to do when you can''t think straight about something?"


    "Take deep breaths and repeat it ten times," he answered.


    "Yes, now I want you to do that and listen to what I say, okay?" When Noah nodded his head and started with his breathing exercise, Melissa continued, "You can''t just draw a conclusion to anything without learning about the entire truth. What if they are not just doing it for pleasure sake but are actually and legitly dating each other? And what if they actually love each other?"


    After completely his self calming exercise , he inquired, "But its Calvin honey and you know how he¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Melissa rolled her eyes, "Oh please Noah just stop with that shit, you also a jerk like him before you met me. I mean, if Sebastian would have said this, I would have definitely given it to him but you also know what the reality is. Love changed you, didn''t it?" When he nodded his head, she added, "Then maybe it changed Calvin as well."


    "Yes it did, I am a very very changed man now." Without waiting for any sort of reply, Calvin continued, "Like previously, turning me on was very easy but these days, only Ava can do that so¡ª" he stopped midway when both the women glared at him and it scared the shit out of him.


    "Seriously, say another word and I''ll kick your ass without Noah''s help," Ava threatently whispered.


    "Babe what did I do?"


    Glaring at him, she gritted her teeth, "You are telling a brother that only his sister can turn you on? Did you drink something inappropriate early in the morning?" Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Let Mel do her thing and calm Noah down first and then we''ll talk."


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s apartment


    "Why don''t you just leave this place?"


    Opening the windows of the living room, Ellie answered, "Hmm I guess not, my parents might visit me so I need to keep this place just in case¡ª"


    "Well, we have enough rooms in our real place so I don''t think so that is a real problem."


    Nodding her head in agreement, she smiled, "Yes, you are right and I can be like ''Hi mom and dad, this is my boyfriends place, so please make yourselves comfortable here'', it will be so much fun and my parents will happily and willingly stay with us."


    Taking off his coat, he chuckled, "Well, the way you said it sounds very inappropriate but I really don''t mind them staying with us."


    Wrapping her arms around his waist, she smiled, "There is nothing much to grab from here, I just need to pack my clothes and a few other things from the bedroom so why don''t you go in there and I''ll make us some coffee."


    "Do you think we should have got some bread?"


    Helplessly skating her head, she chuckled, "Do you think about anything else other than bread, butter and everything else that makes the sandwiches?"


    "I think about you all the time, in fact, I think about you even if you are near me."


    Patting his cheeks, she sighed, "You are getting better with the lines everyday."


    "That wasn''t a line honey, that is exactly how I feel."


    Lightly pushing him away, she made her way towards the kitchen. "I''ll be there in a minute."


    ¡­.


    Inside the bedroom.


    Taking out a bag from underneath the bed, Sebastian placed it on the bed and made his way towards the cupboard.


    As soon as he opened it, his eyes landed on a very familiar dairy.


    Taking it out, he scoffed before mockingly flipping over the hard front cover. How could he forget about Ellie''s diary which he had read a few months ago and also about Craig on whom the entire context of the dairy revolved.


    Raising his brows, he randomly flipped over the pages and grunted, "So what if your name is all over this dairy? It also doesn''t matter whether you have dimples and I don''t because Ellie is my girlfriend now and you are some random guy who couldn''t make it to her heart successfully. So I completely out shadowed you which made me the winner."


    Thrusting his fist in the air, he howled, "In your face you dimple guy."


    "What on Earth are you doing Seb?" Ellie chuckled.


    ....

 Chapter 181 - "I am jealous....."

    Tossing the diary away, he awkwardly cleared his throat, "Nothing, I was just taking out your clothes from the cupboard."


    Keeping the cups on the dressing table, she inquired, "What were you holding just now?"


    "I was holding this¡ª" Taking out a random top from the cupboard, he continued, "This top, it''s so soft."


    Taking the dairy out from the cupboard, she raised her brows, "Seb, did you read my diary?"


    "What? No I didn''t." When she gave him a ''Liar Liar pants on fire'' look, he sighed, "Fine, I did but not today, I read it months ago."


    "When?"


    "Remember the time when I helped you clean your apartment for the first time?" When she nodded her head, he continued, "I found it under that table and I couldn''t resist reading it."


    When she did not say anything, he added, "I read how you were gloating about that Craig guy."


    "You do know that reading someone''s personal diary is really not cool, right?"


    He vigorously nodded his head and scoffed, "But it was worth it, at least now I know that there was a guy you liked but he wasn''t good enough for you but I am and this is why you are my girlfriend and not his."


    Helplessly shaking her head, she chuckled, "I was in high school when I wrote this and Craig was just a teenage crush that I had, it was nothing serious."


    When he did not give her a very convincing expression, she added, "And not that you care but later I started hating Craig because I found out that he bullied small puppies and kittens."


    "What? Who does that? Is he out of his mind?" Sebastian frowned.


    Shrugging her shoulders, she sighed, "Well, he loved it so¡ª"


    "What if he didn''t do that? I mean, what if he loved puppies? Do you think you and Craig¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she vigorously shook her head, "No and even if we had a thing in the past, would you mind?" When he shook his head, she sighed, "Then why are we even talking about it?"


    "No specific reason, I was just curious because according to the diary, you loved his dimples."


    Crossing her arms in the front, she raised her brows at him. "Seb, are you jealous of Craig?" When he looked away, she chuckled, "Are you seriously jealous of someone you have never met?"


    Knocking his forehead, she added, "You are crazy Sebastian Stewart."


    Grabbing her hand, he inched closer, "And who is responsible for that?"


    Taking a step back, she answered, "Not my fault."


    Without saying anything, he kept cornering her until her back touched the cold wall.


    Tucking a lock of hair behind her ear, he inched closer until their nose touched. "How am I supposed to feel when I discover that my girlfriend had a major crush on a guy and she even dedicated a whole diary for him."


    Clutching onto his shirt, she closed her eyes when he brushed their lips together but before she could kiss him back, he pulled away.


    "Why shouldn''t I be jealous? I am very jealous," he whispered in a very seductive tone which made her legs turn jelly and weak.


    Kissing her jaw followed by the chin, he added, "I wish I had met you before that Craig guy."


    His lips then traced the line of her cheek bone and with his lips against hers, he said, "I wish¡ª"


    Without waiting for him to complete his sentence, she pulled him closer.


    Tightening his grip around her waist, he started kissing her gently and carefully at first.


    When she tightened her fist around his shirt and pulled him closer, he lifted her up and wrapped her legs around his hip and pushed her against the wall before intensifying the kiss.


    Her fingers gripped his hair, pulling him closer. She m.o.a.ned when he slipped his tongue inside her mouth. She could feel heat building all over her body and a weird yet amazing sensation started spreading through her veins which made her heart feel giddy.


    Without breaking the kiss, he made his way towards the bed.


    Pulling away, he carefully placed her on the bed and quickly took off her shoes in urgency before jerking off his. He then hovered her body with his and captured her red, plum lips again.


    Her fingers started unbuttoning his shirt in urgency while his hands caressed her inner thighs.


    He groaned in pain when she accidentally bit his lower lip too hard.


    Ellie widened her eyes in shock and quickly pulled away when she tasted blood. "I-I am so sorry, I¡ª"


    Wiping the blood off his lips, Sebastian sighed, "It''s alright," before flipping over.


    Lying down beside each other, they tried to calm themselves down without uttering a single word.


    Popping her head up, she worriedly inquired, "Are you alright?"


    "Yeah, I am fine."


    Lowering her head, she apologized, "I am so sorry, I did not realize¡ª" With her cheeks burning in embarrassment, she pursed her lips contemplating whether she should say the remaining words or not.


    Turning towards her, he smiled and caressed her cheek, "It''s alright, I don''t mind."


    Snuggling closer, she pouted her lips and complained, "That was such a bummer. I mean, a bummer for your beautiful lips."


    Throwing his head back, he chuckled, "You think my lips are beautiful?"


    "Of course they are, everything about you and your face is beautiful. You are a very handsome beautiful man," she answered.


    Kissing the top of her head, he smiled, "Only you can make weird things sound so cute and full of sense."


    Fidgeting with his shirt buttons, she awkwardly stated, "Just now we¡ª"


    "It''s alright, we don''t have to talk about it if you are not comfortable," he answered before pulling her closer. He knew that it was too early to take things further but he just got carried away in the moment.


    "It''s not that I am not comfortable or I don''t want to but¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he said in a very assuring tone, "We will never do anything that you are not ready or a hundred percent comfortable with."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 182 - Seeking advice from the expert

    Burying her face on his chest, she smiled, "I love you."


    Kissing the top of her head, he inquired, "Do you want to take that diary too?"


    "Just to let you know so that you don''t feel unnecessarily jealous, that diary has other important things too and not just about Craig or his dimples."


    Scrunching his brows, he curiously inquired, "Do you really like dimples that much?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, she chuckled, "Well, the teenager Ellie thought it was awesome but not anymore."


    "Good because I think dimples are offensive."


    "Offensive? Why so?"


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "Honey, it''s obviously offensive to those who do not have one."


    Pinching his cheeks, she chuckled, "You are seriously unbelievable Mr Stewart." Without waiting for his reply, she got up and added, "I think our coffee is cold, let me make a new one for us."


    "Alright, I''ll clear your cupboard by then."


    ¡­.


    Noah and Melissa''s place.


    Impatiently shaking his leg, Clavin leaned towards Ava and inquired, "So are we not going for the movies?" When she glared at him, he shrugged his shoulders. "What? That movie is a good one."


    "Are you both sure that you are in love?" Noah asked.


    Vigorously nodding their heads, Calvin and Ava unanimously exclaimed, "Absolutely."


    Grabbing Clavins hand, Ava added, "We are very much in love with each other."


    Looking at Calvin, Noah started interrogating him, "Ava is naive and innocent so I am very sure that she is very serious about this relationship but I am still not very sure about you Cal."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting him off, he stated, "We have discussed, seen and witnessed many things together which makes it even harder to believe that you legitily love my sister."


    Clavin sighed and helplessly nodded his head in agreement. He couldn''t deny the fact that he had told Noah many nasty things about his past hookups and since they were childhood buddies, he had seen enough to forbid him from seeing his sister.


    "But since Mel has asked me to give you a chance and also because I love and care about my sister, I will give you one chnace but the moment you f.u.c.k up, I''ll tell Sebastian about you both and also beat you black and blue," Noah explained.


    "That means you won''t tell Sebastian about it right?" When Noah nodded his head, Ava beamed, "ahh thank you so much Noah, you are the best." Giving him a hug, she added, "I always knew that you will support no matter what."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Noah sighed and hugged her back, "Yes but that doesnt mean I will stop your boyfriend."


    "Why are you calling me her boyfriend? We are still best buds right?" Calvin asked.


    "Obviously we are but I have eyes on you¡ª" Narrowing his eyes, Noah added, "Always, starting today."


    "Okay since everything is settled now, can we leave? I wanna watch the movie and I am craving for Italian today." Rubbing her stomach, Melissa sighed, "Noah, I am hungry already."


    "I''ll grab a sandwich for you on the way honey," Noah answered.


    ¡­..


    TWO MONTHS LEAP


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian''s office.


    "Woah man, your office is much more fancy than I had expected it to be," Brandon exclaimed.


    Looking at with a straight face, Sebastian flatly asked, "What do you want?"


    "What? Do I have to want something to visit my friend?" When Sebastian gave him a ''If you don''t tell me now I''ll kick you out'' look, he sighed and quickly sat down right in front of him. "Okay, I''ll come straight to the point."


    "Which is¡ª"


    "Well, it''s nothing so important or seriously. I just want to ask you a very casual and random question." Without waiting for Sebastian''s reply, he continued, "How did you feel when you first started going out with Ellie?"


    Thinking for a while, Sebastian answered, "Good."


    Pursing his lips, Brandon sighed, "That is great, you felt good but I want you to be more precise because I think that will help me alot."


    Looking at him expressionlessly, he inquired, "Is it about Charlotte?"


    "No, absolutely not¡ª" When Sebastian raised his brows, he sighed, "Fine, absolutely yes."


    "You both started going out?"


    "Well, we have been constantly going out for dinner, lunch, breakfast, sometimes movies and for long evening walks in the park or sometimes its long drives¡ª"


    "Yeah so what is the problem? You don''t like spending time with her?" he asked.


    Brandon vigorously shook his head and confidently denied, "No, I like spending time with her but the problem is that, I think I have started liking it more than I should have."


    Shrugging his shoulders, Sebastian inquired, "Okay so how is that bad? If you like it, continue doing it. Why are you so hesitant in doing something that you like?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he nodded his head, "What you said does makes sense but I feel very weird. Like you know how I am or we can say how I was, I am not used to this. But the major problem is that though I know this is weird and something isn''t right, I cannot stop myself from doing it because it feels so right. Are you understanding what I am trying to say?"


    After their adventurous friendly meet, Brandon and Charlotte had been constantly seeing each other and they were doing things which did not include anything even closely related to s.e.x which was very weird. Brandon liked spending time with her and he enjoyed it even though there was nothing s.e.x.u.a.lly pleasurable involved, which was not only not common but it had never happened. He had completely stopped seeing other women and had been focusing on work and Charlotte for two months straight without getting bored which was very strange and not something he usually did. So after thinking a lot, he decided to take some advice from an expert, Sebastian Stewart.


    Resting his arm on his desk, Sebastian nodded his head, "Yes, I completely understand what you are trying to say because I have already been in a very similar situation. Well, the only difference is that in my case, I used to work like a robot but you are a man whore."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 183 - Seeking advice from the expert(II)

    "That is so offensive but I don''t mind since you are helping me out, please continue," Brandon stated.


    "Well, when I first started spending more time with Ellie, it felt really very weird but like you said, in a very different way and even I couldn''t stop doing it because I loved spending time with her. We used to watch movies, go to eat at different places, sometimes she used to cook, long drives, walks in the park¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Brandon said, "So basically the same thing that we are doing."


    Sebastian nodded his head and added, "Yes and it felt very weird because I was giving up the only thing that I loved to do, working my ass off. But even though I knew this wasn''t something that I would sanely do, I still didn''t stop spending time with her because I didn''t want to. So slowly, Ellie became much more important than work."


    Thinking for quite some time, Brandon asked, "What happened after that?"


    "After that? Well, I realized that I am in love with her and¡ª"


    Raising his hands, he nervously scoffed, "Woahh, easy peasy pal, now where did love come from?"


    "No idea but it did and now she is my girlfriend, we are living together and we have the two most adorable dogs," Sebastian answered.


    Getting up, Brandon nervously ran his fingers through his face and started freaking out. He was in complete denial with the fact that he might be in love with Charlotte.


    Pressing both his hands on the desk, he snapped, "I am not in love with Charlotte."


    Raising his brows, Sebastian explained, "I never said that you are in love with Charlotte."


    Sitting down in his previous spot, Brandon retorted, "But you just said that you and Ellie¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian explained further, "I was talking about what happened between Ellie and me, I said that we fell in love and I wasn''t talking about you and Charlotte but good to know where you are at."


    "I am not at anything, okay?" he snapped.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian sighed, "Listen Brandon, I am just explaining you things from my point of view and according to how things happened between Ellie and me. I however, have no idea how things are between you and Charlotte or how it started so¡ª"


    "So you think you can help me better if I tell you the entire thing that happened between Charlotte and me? Like how we met the first time?" Brandon asked.


    "Well, I know you both met during the camping trip and¡ª"


    Cutting Sebastian off, he shook his head, "No, that wasn''t the first time we met. We did meet once before the trip but I will tell you about it if you promise me not to tell anyone about it."


    "Why cant I tell anyone about it?"


    Gritting his teeth, Brandon snapped, "Because it''s too damn embarrassing."


    "Okay, I won''t."


    Hesitating for a while, he took a deep breath and started narrating his life''s most embarrassing moment. "Charlotte and I met at a bar in New York almost six months ago. We met and immediately clicked so I invited her to my suit to you know, have s.e.x."


    "So you both hooked up or rather had a one night stand, how is that even close to getting embarrassed?" Sebastian curiously inquired.


    Gritting his teeth, Brandon answered, "Because what was supposed to happen never happened." When Sebastian gave him a weird look, he sighed and massaged his temples, "Yes, I couldn''t perform."


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian curiously asked, "Why?" wondering what must have gone wrong.


    Jerking both his hands in the air, he answered in a very helpless tone, "I have no idea, maybe she squeezed it too hard. Anyway, I don''t know but it was very embarrassing and Charlotte, she couldn''t stop laughing which made me feel even more awful than I already was."


    "But don''t you have a lot of experience? How did this happen then?" Sebastian was feeling very sorry for Brandon and very scared for himself.


    "I don''t know man, I don''t like thinking about that awful night so don''t ask me any questions about it. So the point is that I never met Charlotte after that night, in fact, I didn''t even know that she was from L.A and I would meet her again during the trip." Helplessly shaking his head, Brandon continued, "Initially I was trying to convince her to have s.e.x with me because I wanted to prove her that there was nothing wrong with me or my d.i.c.k but now things are different."


    "How is it different? You don''t want to prove anything about your body parts now?"


    "No, I don''t want to because suddenly that is not important at all. All I want to do is spend quality time with her and make her feel special," he answered.


    Rubbing his chin, Sebastian inquired, "So are you trying to tell me that she doesn''t turn you on anymore? I mean, that s.e.x.u.a.l feeling is all gone and everything is cold?"


    "Of course not, she still turns me on all the time but it''s different now." Pausing for a while, he continued, "For example, instead of her b.o.o.b.s and s.e.xy body, her smile turns me on. The way she flips all her hair from one side to the other turns me on." Smiling like a lovestruck fool, Brandon added, "The way she closes her eyes while eating her favourite ice cream turns me on and the way she satisfactorily smiles when her coffee tastes exactly the way she likes also makes me smile."


    Clearing his throat, Sebastian sighed, "I think I know what is exactly happening to you."


    Sitting up straight, Brandon excitedly asked, "Really? What is it?"


    "You are in love with Charlotte but you are also very egoist to accept that so you are constantly denying it. Now all you need to do is man up a little and tell her how you feel" Sebastian answered.


    ...

 Chapter 184 - God grandfather

    Scrunching his brows, Brandon snapped, "That is not at all true, I am not someone who can just fall in love. I¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian helplessly shook his head, "You see that? Constant denial."


    "I am not denying it, I am just stating the fact," Brandon retorted. Though he had no idea what was happening to him, he was quite sure that he wasn''t in love with Charlotte because according to him, he wasn''t love material.


    Leaning back in his chair, Sebastian inquired, "Okay you tell me, why do you think you are feeling that way towards Charlotte?"


    Hesitating for a while, he answered, "I don''t know, maybe because I am spending more time with her."


    "Okay then just stop spending time with her and your problem will be solved," he suggested.


    "No I can''t do that, I like spending time with her," Brandon snapped.


    Pinching the bridge of his nose, Sebastian sighed, "Listen Brandon, I am still very thankful to you because you helped me choose that gift for Ellie but that doesn''t mean I have all the time in the world to deal with your shit."


    "Hey man, that hurt," Brandon complained, he knew that Sebastian wasn''t the most patient one but he did not expect him to be so blunt.


    "I don''t care, you told me your problem and I gave you a solution to it but¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Brandon curiously inquired, "What was the solution that you gave me?"


    Taking a deep breath to calm himself down, Sebastian explained, "From whatever you told me, I think¡ª" Stopping midway, he shook his head. "No scratch that, I don''t think but I am pretty sure that you are in love with Charlotte. So according to me, you should just go and tell her how you feel about her immediately before it''s too late."


    "But I don''t¡ª"


    Resting his arms on the table, he added, "So are you trying to tell me that you feel nothing for Charlotte? You don''t feel giddy or something floating in your stance when you are with her?"


    Thinking for a while, Brandon hesitantly shook his head, "No, nothing."


    Before Seb could say anything further, Brandon''s cell phone started ringing and when Brandon realized who it was, he started freaking out.


    "Oh my God, it''s Charlotte." He then started fixing his hair and straightening his suit. "Quick, tell me how do I look?"


    Tapping his fingers on the deak, Sebastian shrugged his shoulder, "Why bother? Like you said, she means nothing to you so why do you even care about your appearance?"


    "Can we please have this psychological discussion later? She is on the phone and I don''t want her to overthink if I miss it, so can you please tell me how I look?" Brandon snapped.


    "You look fine," he briefly answered before picking up his phone and texting Ellie. It was almost 9:00 am but she hadn''t arrived in the office which made him wonder where she was stuck.


    ¡­..


    Park


    "What are you talking about? In fact, what are you waiting for?" Brandon inquired.


    "Markus I really don''t want to talk to you about this topic."


    "Why not? S.e.x is a universal and natural thing."


    Pinching the bridge of her nose, Ellie sighed, "I know but it''s awkward for us to discuss it."


    Crossing his arms in the front and with a very wronged expression on his face, he scoffed, "Am I not your friend?"


    "Yes you are but¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he turned towards her and excitedly grinned, "Then that''s it, as your friend it''s my duty to show you the right path." Without waiting for her reply, he added, "So it''s been more than two months you are dating right?"


    Ellie nodded her head and answered, "Yes."


    "So has he made a move yet?"


    Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "Markus, what did you eat today? Why are you behaving so weird?"


    Shrugging his shoulders, he answered, "Well, I just realized in the morning that my grandson will seriously never give me a grandchild so I thought, if you and Sebastian have a baby, I can be the baby''s God grandfather right?"


    "Of course," she chuckled.


    Excitedly clapping his hand, he beamed, "That is awesome but to have a baby, you two have to¡ª"


    "Alright now stop right there, I promise to make you the God grandfather but only if you promise never to mention s.e.x ever again."


    "Oh come on, what is there to feel awkward or shy about that? It''s very natural," he retorted.


    "Yes I know but it''s also awkward." Glancing at her watch, Ellie gasped, "Okay, I am too late for work today, my boss will fire me if¡ª"


    Giving her a goodbye hug, he chuckled, "Your boss is now your boyfriend so basically, you are the boss now."


    "I''ll see you tomorrow and make sure to take some proper rest after you go home, you look so tired today," she instructed.


    "I will," he smiled.


    ¡­.


    Stewart International Group.


    With his head lowered, Brandon kept glancing at Sebastian every now and then in a very sly and embarrassed way.


    "Do you have any valid reason for your behaviour? It was not even a video call but you were panicking like you were meeting her in person and that creepy smile you had in your face when you were talking to her, why don''t you explain that first?" Sebastian snapped.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he answered, "Well, I think you were a little right and I was a little wrong¡ª"


    "No Brandon, you were completely wrong and I was completely one hundred percent right, you love Charlotte and why the hell is it so damn to accept? Why are you so hesitant to believe that you are actually in love with a woman?" What is stopping you from telling her how you feel?" Sebastian inquired.


    Pinching the bridge of his nose, Brandon sighed, "I don''t know, maybe I am just scared that I will f.u.c.k everything up."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 185 - Clingy

    "And why would you feel that way? How do you know that you will f.u.c.k things up before you even give it a shot? Have faith in yourself."


    "Because I am scared Seb, I don''t wanna lose her forever." Pausing for a while, Brandon added, "What if I tell her about my feelings but she doesn''t feel the same for me?"


    "And what if she does? What if even she feels the same for you but is reluctant to tell you because she thinks that you don''t?" Sebastian asked.


    Scrunching his brows, Brandon oursed his lips, "Then what if I f.u.c.k up after we get into a relationship? If things don''t work out well between us, everything will be ruined."


    Placing his hand on his desk, Sebastian explained, "When I told Ellie about my feelings, I was very scared. I had no idea how things would work too and I was very worried about screwing things up but that never stopped me from doing what my heart wanted. So I proposed Ellie and now we are doing just fine, in fact, we are doing awesome."


    Without waiting for Brandon''s reply, he added, "You can''t ruin your present and stop yourself from doing something that you really want to think about the future that is yet to happen."


    "What if she doesn''t feel the same for me?" Brandon asked.


    Shrugging his shoulder, Sebastian answered, "Nothing." Pausing for a while, he continued, "I have learned many things from Ellie and one of them is to always follow your heart no matter what the consequences and result is. So what if she doesn''t feel the same way about you? I mean you can''t force someone to feel the same way about you, right?"


    When Brandon nodded his head, he added, "At least you will always have a satisfaction in your heart that you at least tried."


    Just then Ellie entered the room. "I am so sorry for being late, I¡ª" she stopped midway when she noticed that Sebstian wasn''t alone.


    Breathing a sigh of relief, Sebastian beamed, "Finally, there you are."


    "I got stuck somewhere but I am glad that you had company." Looking at Brandon, she smiled, "It''s good to see you again."


    Giving her a weak smile, he nodded his head and quietly left the office.


    Noticing how the usually energetic and happy Brandon was exceptionally quiet, Ellie frowned, "Is he alright?"


    "He is in love with Charlotte but he is scared that she isn''t¡ª" Pulling her in his lap, he gave her a brief kiss and sighed, "I missed you."


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she chuckled, "We saw each other in the morning."


    "That was two hours ago, I want you beside me all the time," he complained.


    Running her fingers through his hair, she asked, "Don''t you think you are becoming more and more clingy day by day?"


    "Are you complaining? Are you tired of me already?"


    Vigorously shaking her head, she chuckled, "Of course not, I am just scared that Boji and Bojo feel quite lonely these days, we don''t give them enough time."


    "What makes you think that way? They play with each other all day and they really don''t miss us," he answered.


    Helplessly shaking her head, she inquired, "Why do I feel like you bought Boji to distract Boji?"


    "That is a very serious allegation and I am very offended." Pulling her closer, he added, "And now you have to pay a price for offending me."


    Pushing him away, she squealed, "Seb, I have many things to do."


    "Nothing is more important than your offended boyfriend right now," he snapped.


    "You guys, at least lock the door before you both do stuff." Helplessly shaking his head, Noah sighed, "People in love are so senseless."


    Quickly getting down from his lap, Ellie grabbed her bag and rushed out of the office.


    Glaring at Noah, Sebastian snapped, "Knock the door before entering and why the hell do you keep disturbing me early in the morning?"


    Raising both his hands in the air, Noah chuckled, "Ah I am so sorry for interrupting your lovely time lover boy but I am here to discuss something important today."


    "What is it?"


    "The court hearing for the case is scheduled tomorrow in at 11:00 am, our presence is needed," Noah informed.


    "Hmm,I know."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Noah inquired, "Did you tell Ellie about it yet?"


    "I don''t think it''s something that she should know, I just don''t want her to take any kind of unnecessary stress. The matter is already solved, right? So there is nothing to worry about,'' Sebastian answered.


    "Are you sure?" without waiting for his reply, Noah explained, "Look, I haven''t told Melissa about it too because she will definitely tell Ellie about it but I don''t know how long I can keep this away from her. I don''t think Ellie will like it if she learns about this from someone else, you need to let her know Sebastian."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Sebastian inquired, "What about Mr Hudson?"


    "He is all ready to corporate, there is no problem from his side."


    Getting up, Noah added, "I would suggest you talk to Ellie."


    "I will tell her after everything has been settled down, she is never going to be at peace if she learns about this before the court hearing and I don''t want that to happen."


    Noah sighed and nodded his head, "Hmm, that makes sense. You tell El about it tomorrow after the hearing and I''ll tell Mel too."


    "I''ll have to find a way to sneak out of the office tomorrow and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Noah said, "Dude, I am going with you."


    "But if we both sneak out, they will figure out that something is wrong," Sebastian stated.


    Thinking for a while, Noah suggested, "Lets just tell them that we have another meeting with someone and we both need to attend it."


    Nodding his head in agreement, Sebastian added, "Let''s do that then, I''ll let Ellie know about it."


    .....

 Chapter 186 - Childish big baby

    Lunch time.


    "Another meeting?"


    Sebastian nodded his head and answered, "Yes, Noah and I have to attend it again but I''ll be back by lunch this time."


    "Hmm but why wasn''t it mentioned in the list then?" Ellie inquired.


    "It is actually a very confidential meeting so we prefer keeping it under the wraps." He hated keeping things away from her but he didn''t want to tell her about it until everything has been taken care of.


    Opening the lid of the lunchbox that she had prepared for them early in the morning, she informed, "I have to meet Charlotte after work."


    "Do you want me to pick you up later?" When Ellie nodded her head, he inquired, "Where are you meeting her?"


    "At Calvin''s place," she answered.


    "Give me a call after you are done, I''ll fetch you from there and then we can go for dinner somewhere."


    .....


    Calvin''s place.


    Charlotte gasped and leaped backwards in shock when he saw Brandon sitting on the couch. "Oh goodness, what the hell are you doing here?" Realizing how rude she might have sounded, she cleared her throat and rephrased her sentence. "I mean, what are you doing here? If I knew you were coming, I would have stayed back to welcome you."


    "I was just waiting for you, it''s nothing so important," Brandon answered. After leaving Sebastian''s office, he started feeling very confused and stressed. He was trying very hard not to think about what Sebastian had told him about love and his feelings for Charlotte but all he could think about was Charlotte, Charlotte and Charlotte. So he decided to leave work early and visit.


    Looking at his gloomy expression, she frowned, "What happened? You look very stressed."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he asked, "Can we take a nap together in your bouncy bed? Just for a few hours, I promise to leave you alone after that."


    "A nap? But it''s just twelve in the afternoon." When his expression turned gloomier, she immediately agreed without asking any kind of question. "Let''s nap together for a while."


    After getting her approval, he grabbed her hand and guided her to the bedroom.


    ¡­.


    Inside Charlotte''s room.


    Taking off his blazer and shoes, Brandon made himself comfortable on the bed before giving Charlotte the most innocent look. "I promise I wont do anything, I just want to snuggle and take a nice nap with you."


    Snuggling beside him, she inquired, "Do you want to talk about it?" When he shook his head, she sighed, "Okay but always remember that I am here for you if you wanna talk."


    Without saying anything, he wrapped his arms around her waist and buried his head on her neck.


    Charlotte chuckled when he wrapped his leg around her, she wasn''t used to cuddling and snuggling with people but Brandon''s presence did not bother her at all. In fact, his warmth and the way he embraced her made her feel secure and at peace.


    ¡­..


    6:00 pm


    When Charlotte woke up, Brandon was looking at her with a sweet smile on his face. Rubbing her eyes, she inquired, "What are you looking at?"


    "You look so peaceful while sleeping," he answered before running his finger through his hair.


    Pulling away, she sat up straight and inquired, "Why are you here Brandon? I know it''s not just for napping."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he hesitated for a while and asked, "Do you think we are in love?"


    Widening her eyes in shock, she snapped, "What? What makes you think that we are?"


    "Don''t you think that we are?"


    Leaning against the headboard, she shrugged her shoulders, "I-I don''t know."


    Supporting his head with his elbow, he sighed, "I am confused too but you make me feel different, happy, giddy and special."


    Looking at him in a very suspicious way, she inquired, "Are you serious? Seriously Brandon, if this is some sort of a trick or plan to into my pants then¡ª"


    "What? Is that what you think of me?" he snapped.


    "I didn''t mean that, I am just practically saying that because you were trying to convince me sleep with you since the beginning and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he sat up. "So you think everything that I have done for you till date is because I want to have s.e.x with you?"


    "I never said¡ª"


    "But what you said exactly meant that." Without waiting for her reply, he got down from the bed and fumed, "I cannot believe that you think of me like that."


    "Brandon will you please stop getting angry and listen to me?" she requested.


    Grabbing his blazer, he glared at her and yelled, "Not that you care Charlotte but never did I once think about having s.e.x with you when we were hanging out together, I genuinely cared for you but it turns out that I''ll forever remain a jerk in your eyes so forget it."


    Before she could say anything, Brandon walked out of the room angril without giving her a chance to explain anything.


    Groaning in frustration, she slumped up on the bed and started grumbling. A few minutes ago, they were having such a happy time but now everything was chaotic and they were fighting.


    Just then Ellie entered the room and asked, "What happened to Brandon? He looked very angry."


    "Well, he can go to hell that sick bastard." Getting up, she gritted her teeth, "What the hell does he think of himself? Who walks out like that without even discussing a matter properly?"


    Keeping her bag on the bed, Ellie sighed, "Alright, walk me through it properly."


    "Have a seat first, I''ll go wash my face first." Without waiting for her reply, Charlotte entered the washroom.


    ¡­.


    Ten minutes later.


    Angrily pacing back and forth in the room, Charlotte snapped, "What will you think if a guy who was trying to get into your plans since the first day you met suddenly tells you that he might be in love with you?"


    "Wait what? I don''t understand, who are you talking about?" Ellie frowned.


    "Brandon, I am talking about the childish big baby who walked out of a conversation without discussing things like a.d.u.l.ts," Charlotte snapped.


    "Okay so what exactly happened? You both fought for the first time?"


    Scrunching her brows, Charlotte muttered, "Yes, this is actually the first time we fought."


    "So he told you that he loves you but you think that he just wants to get into your pants?" Ellie asked.


    "How do you know that?" she frowned.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie answered, "Apart from the fact that you just summarized the situation in a nutshell, Brandon visited Seb in his office today and when I asked him¡ªI mean Seabstain about it, he told me that Brandon is in love with you."


    "Seriously? He told Sebastian that he is in love with me?" Charlotte was having a really hard time believing that Brandon was really in love with her.


    "Yes, that is what Seb told me and he never jokes about things like this but what about you, do you also have feelings for him?" Ellie inquired.


    Sitting beside her, Charlotte sighed, "I called you over to discuss something that is partly related to this." Without waiting for her reply, she added, "I can''t talk to Ava or Melissa because well, no specific reason but I feel like you are the best person with whom I can discuss this without any hesitation."


    "Okay, what is it?"


    Thinking for quite some time, Charlotte started explaining her problem, "So the thing is, Brandon and I are spending lots of time together, it''s like we are always together and manage to meet each other everyday either for breakfast, lunch or dinner and sometimes for evening walks or long drives."


    "And that is bad because¡ª?"


    "Not saying that it''s bad but it''s weird because it feels great with him and I haven''t even met anyone or hooked up with anyone else for the last two months, that also doesn''t feel weird." Pointing towards the bed, she added, "We just had a nice long nap and it was probably the one I had in years."


    Pausing for a while, she frowned, "The strange part is, I don''t nap during daytime because it''s not good for my skin or body but I actually broke one or rules for him and cuddled with him for a long nap only because he wanted to do that."


    Staring at her, Ellie raised her brows, "Like, are you sure that you don''t know what it is or you do know what the problem is but you are shamelessly denying it because that fact that you''re in love with Brandon is too much for you to handle?"


    Slapping her own forehead, Charlotte sighed, "This is exactly what I was worried about." Helplessly shaking her head, she grunted, "Just when I thought that I had completely lost the ability to love anyone, Brandon just shows up with his handsome face and caring nature to force me to go through that hell like journey again. I am telling you Ellie, I am not going through everything all over again."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 187 - Listen to your heart

    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "Listen to me Charlotte." Grabbing Charlotte''s hand, she explained, "I know what is scaring you from being in a relationship but you have to remember whatever happened is in the past now and it''s not most likely to repeat again. You can''t just run away from things only because something bad happened in the past."


    "I know El but I just don''t want to suffer again." Helplessly shaking her head, Charlotte sighed, "All these years, I have been running and keeping myself away from things which are even closely related to love or anything like that but now, everything has just happened and I am going with the flow even when I so badly don''t want to."


    "Charlotte you have to understand that there are certain things that you don''t have any control over, like your heart. So no matter how hard you try to our feelings about Brandon away, it''s not gonna help because your heart is yearning for his love." Without waiting for her reply, she added, "You just said that it feels great with him right? And you are willing to do things which you don''t like just for him."


    Charlotte nodded her head and answered, "Yes, I like doing things which makes him happy."


    "So, don''t you see what is happening here? You are already in love with him but you are just very reluctant to admit it because of your past bad experience." Tightening her grip around Charlotte''s hand, she continued, "Love is never bad or wrong, you just need to find the correct man for yourself and after you do that, everything will automatically fall in the right place and you will feel relaxed, happy and free."


    Thinking for a while, Charlotte inquired, "What if it happens again? What if I give another man my everything and he also leaves me all shattered and heartbroken? What do I do then? Sit back and cry again?"


    "Just because you think that this may not work, it doesn''t mean that you don''t try it at all. Do you think that I never got this feeling when Sebastian and I started dating?"


    Biting her lower lip, Charlotte asked, "You did?" When Ellie nodded her head, she further inquired, "Then how did you overcome that feeling?"


    "Well, I was scared too but then I decided to give in and give this relationship everything I have without restraining myself. I don''t know what the end result might be but all I know and care about is that I love Sebastian and if we are meant to be together, nothing can separate us," Ellie explained.


    "So you are suggesting me to give in too?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie answered, "Listen to your heart, do you want to call him and fix things or do you want to just let things be and regret not giving it a shot later? Maybe this is the relationship you have been waiting for your entire life or maybe it isn''t but how can you say without giving it a shot? You can''t say whether a fruit is sweet or sour without tasting it right?"


    Charlotte sighed and nodded her head, "Yes, you are right."


    "You told us that after your first relationship, you have been distracting yourself with various things so maybe this is it, this is the right time for you to stop and do something that will make you genuinely happy. Something that doesn''t include buying materialistic things and flinging with random men from the bar but only pure love which will make you feel special," Ellie smiled.


    Crashing on the bed, Charlotte smiled, "Ahh I think the dead butterflies in my stomach are alive again and they are partying in my stomach, holding tequila shots in their hands."


    Passing her the phone, Ellie added, "Call him and talk things out, I think you both will make a perfect pair."


    Grabbing her bag, she added, "And just to let you know, first fights are always ugly and I am sure that Brandon must be feeling awful so try to coax him."


    Getting up, Charlotte gave Ellie a hug and sighed, "You are my saviour and I love you."


    Patting her back, Ellie chuckled, "It''s alright, you don''t have to thank me. This is what friends do, they help each other in need and show them the right path."


    "If you need any help, I am always there for you, okay?"


    Thinking for a while, Ellie hesitated for a while and informed, "Actually I might need your help over something but not now, maybe sometime in the future."


    "Okay, just let me know and consider it done."


    "Thank Char, now I''ll take my leave."


    After Ellie left, Charlotte crashed on the bed and grabbed her phone. Thinking for a while, she called her big man baby but when he did not receive her call, she frowned and tossed her phone aside angrily.


    ¡­.


    Living room.


    "I think there is someone in Charlotte''s room," Ava m.o.a.ned in between the kiss.


    "Don''t worry honey, it''s most likely Brandon," Calvin answered before capturing her lips again.


    Just then a loud ''BANG'' interrupted their hot session making them jerk their heads towards the direction of the sound.


    Picking up the metal showpiece from the floor, Ellie panicked, "I-I am very sorry¡ªthis¡­." Awkwardly fidgeting with her finger, she snapped, "I''ll take my leave."


    Without waiting for their reply, Ellie rushed toward the door but before she could even get anywhere near the door, Calvin and Ava stopped her.


    "Ellie, wait¡ª" Ava yelled before grabbing her hand.


    Gulping in nervousness, Ellie said, "I swear I did not see the two of you making out on the couch."


    "El please, listen to our explanation first," Calvin requested.


    Left with no other choice other than listening to them, Ellie sighed and nodded her head before walking towards the couch. She had just stepped out of Charlotte''s room when she heard faint m.o.a.ning sounds. Looking around when she stepped into the living room, she was completely taken aback after seeing Calvin and Ava making out with each other on the couch.


    To make things a little less embarrassing, she had planned to just sneak out without letting them know about her presence but her plan got ruined when she tripped against a small side table.


    Sitting right in front of her, Ava explained, "What you saw its¡ª"


    Cutting Ava off, Calvin added, "It''s not like you think."


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, Ellie answered, "Okay."


    "No what Calvin means is we were not just making out because we wanted to but we both are dating," Ava explained.


    Letting out a nervous chuckle, Ellie clapped her hand, "Ah I see, congratulations." Without waiting for their reply, she glanced at her watch and gasped, "Ah look it''s already so late, I should go home."


    Getting up, she added, "It was nice meeting you guys, let''s talk later okay? I am in a hurry now."


    "Wait, you can''t tell Seb about it yet," Ava snapped.


    Stopping midway, Ellie sighed, "Ava, I am seriously very happy for the two of you but there is no way I am keeping things away from Seb."


    Grabbing her hand, Ava requested, "Please El, you can''t tell Seb about us right now."


    "Yes, we aren''t ready to face his wrath so please Ellie, you have to help us," Calvin added.


    Slumping on the couch, Ellie pinched the bridge of her nose. "But I am not supposed to keep things away from him, it''s not right and I am not comfortable doing that."


    "I completely understand what you are trying to say but please think about us. You know Seb will not take our relationship positively and he will definitely lash out on us¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ellie frowned, "Why do you think that Seb won''t support you Ava? You are his sister and he will always support you no matter what. Yes, maybe he will freak out at first but that doesn''t mean he will stay that way forever. What don''t you just tell him the truth instead of hiding such a big thing from him?"


    Ava sighed and nodded her head, "Yes I know and I promise that I''ll tell Seb about us soon but until then, can you keep whatever you saw and heard about us to yourself? Please."


    Looking at the two of them who seemed really very worried, Ellie sighed, "Fine but only for a few days, I cant keep this away from him for a long time."


    Giving her a hug, Ava breathed a sigh of relief, "AH think you so much El, you are so sweet and I love you."


    "Alright but next time, get a room guys," Ellie advised.


    Turning towards Calvin, she added, "And you are dead meat when Seb finds out about it, so you should be ready to face the worst."


    "But¡ª" Before Calvin could say anything, Ellie''s phone started ringing.


    Looking at the caller ID, Ellie sighed, "It''s Seb, I need to go but I am telling you guys again, I can''t hide this for a long time so you both better decide and tell him everything as soon as possible.


    ...

 Chapter 188 - Scared

    "We promise, you don''t have to hide this for a long time." Giving Ellie a hug, Ava sighed, "Thank you so much El, you have no idea how much this means to us."


    Patting her back, Ellie answered, "It''s no biggie but please don''t make me do this for a long time guys."


    "No we won''t, you can trust us on this one," Calvin stated in a very promising tone.


    Pulling away, she whispered to Ava, "I want each and every detail girl."


    "Will tell you everything when we meet again," Ava chuckled.


    After Ellie left, Calvin breathed a sigh of relief, "That was close."


    Smacking his arm, Ava glared at him, "Next time, I am going to kill you if you even think about making out in the living room."


    Shrugging his shoulders, he defended himself, "What? I seriously had no idea that Ellie was inside, I swear."


    Without saying anything, Ava stormed towards her room.


    "Babe, wait for me,?? he called her out before following her.


    ¡­..


    Inside Seb''s car.


    "Sorry for the delay, I got busy talking to Ava about something which is not very important," Ellie informed before nervously cleared her throat.


    Tapping his finger on the steering wheel nervously, Sebastian answered, "It''s alright, I haven''t been waiting for long." Without waiting for her reply, he inquired, "Can we just go home and order something instead of going out somewhere for dinner?"


    "Yes sure¡ª" Looking at him, she scrunched her brows, "Seb, is everything alright? You seem a bit upset."


    "Let''s talk after we reach home, okay?" When she nodded her head, he started the car and drove away.


    ....


    Sebastian and Ellie''s apartment.


    As soon as they stepped out of the elevator, the two fluffy little ones came running towards them and started snuggling against their legs.


    Bending down, Ellie gave them belly rubs simultaneously. "Ahh they are growing so fast." Looking at Seb, she chuckled, "I think they will become a.d.u.l.ts really soon."


    "Yes, they are healthy and growing up fast," Sebastan smiled.


    Turning towards him, she inquired, "You wanted to talk about something."


    "Yeah right, we should sit down first." Grabbing her hand, he guided her towards the couch. After thinking about the whole hiding the truth from Ellie thing, Sebastian decided not to do it and tell her everything without keeping anything away from her. He still remembered what had happened last time he had kept things away from her and he knew that she hated it when he lied to her no matter what the reason is.


    For the past two and a half months, they were having a really awesome time together and the bond that they share was growing stronger day by day, he didn''t want to wreck everything by doing something that he knows can cause serious damage to their relationship.


    Letting out a nervous chuckle, Ellie stated, "Okay, you are scaring me now."


    Tightening his grip around her hand, he sighed, "There is nothing to be scared of, it''s just something that is not very important but I think you should know because I don''t want that thing to cause misunderstandings between us."


    Scrunching her brows, she snapped, "Don''t tell me that you are going on another date with some woman, I am telling you Seb¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he vigorously shook his head, "Of course not honey, why would I go on dates?"


    Breathing a sigh of relief, she inquired, "Alright then what is it?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he explained, "Remember that accident?"


    Pursing her lips, she nodded her head. How could she not forget the most traumatic incident that had ever happened in her life? In fact, she still got goosebumps when she thought what would have happened if she wasn''t with Sebastian at that time. The mere thought of him getting hurt sent chills down her spine.


    "That wasn''t an accident."


    "What do you mean?" she frowned.


    Kissing the back of her hand, he quickly snapped, "Now don''t freak out, okay? It''s nothing to worry about."


    "Nothing to worry about? Are you kidding me? You are saying that it wasn''t an accident then what was it? How am I supposed to not freak out when you are telling me that someone is trying to hurt you?" she lashed out.


    After taking a deep, Sebastian pulled her towards him and settled her in his lap. "I know that you are worried about me but the person who hired that driver is already in police custody." Rubbing her back to calm her down, he added, "Everything is okay, in fact we are going to attend the last court tomorrow."


    "So you already knew about this?" When he nodded his head, she sighed, "Why didn''t you tell me about it before?"


    "I didn''t want you to freak out or worry about anything and the man is already in the police custody so it didn''t matter anymore¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she retorted, "Of course it matters Sebastain, someone is after your life, do you even realize how dangerous this is? How can you take this so casually?"


    "Yes, I know but everything is fine now," he added.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she inquired, "Who is it?" When she hesitated for a while, she frowned, "You have to tell me Seb, this is not something that you should hide from anyone."


    Left with no other choice, he answered, "It''s Danny Hudson."


    Thinking for a while, Ellie pursed her lips, "Is this the guy whom we had met in a hotel for a meeting?" When he nodded her head, she pinched the bridge of her nose. "Oh God but why would he do that? I thought you were on good terms with his father."


    Sebastian nodded his head and answered, "Yes I am, in fact, he was the one who cooperated with the police to get Danny caught. Mr Hudson was equally shocked as we were but he is a nice man who follows the law."


    "But why would he do that? Did he tell the police?"


    ¡­...

 Chapter 189 - Lie

    "It''s apparently because I refused to do any kind of business with him and insisted on waiting for his father." When Ellie gave him a confused look, he continued, "After I asked you to leave that day, I called Mr Hudson and told him that I don''t want to deal with Danny so he asked me to wait until he is back. Later, Mr Hudson threatened to kick Danny out and decided to give the company to his younger son which angered him even more."


    "So he directed all his hate towards you and tried to kill you?" Scrunching her brows, Ellie scoffed, "That doesn''t even make any sense, shouldn''t he attack his brother or father? Why you?" When he chuckled, she frowned deeper, "What are you so happy about? This isn''t funny Sebastian."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he chimed, "No, I mean yes I am serious but the way you said it¡ª" Stopping midway he inquired, "So he should have asked someone to hit his brother or his father with a car and not me?"


    Realizing that he was actually making fun of her, she pouted her lips, "I was just trying to make sense because you''re not the one who actually wronged him. He is clearly targeting and attacking the wrong man."


    Pausing for a while, she sighed, "I am just worried that¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he stated, "There is nothing to be worried about, everything is under control and after tomorrow, Danny is going to receive the punishment that he deserves."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she requested, "Can I attend the trial with you?"


    "Honey¡ª"


    "Please, I want to because I will only feel at peace after making sure that he will not hurt you in the future," Ellie added.


    Though he didn''t want to take her, he couldn''t say no to her and make her upset. "Alright, I''ll take you there but you are not allowed to leave my side even for a single second."


    Burying her face on his neck, she nodded her head, "I promise."


    ¡­.


    Hawick mansion.


    Brandon''s room


    Throwing his blazer on the bed, Brandon gritted his teeth and started pacing back and forth in anger, mumbling to himself, "What does she think of herself? How can she do this to me?"


    Just then, his phone beeped and he angrily took it out from his pocket but he immediately tossed it aside when he saw who it was.


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, he contemplated for a while before grabbing his phone and opening the message that Charlotte had sent him.


    [Charlotte: Wanna go for a long drive tomorrow?"]


    Thinking for a while, he quickly replied:


    [Brandon: Why?]


    [Charlotte: Don''t we do it everyday?]


    [Brandon: Whatever we did till date was to get into your pants right? So why bother going for a drive with a jerk like me?]


    [Charlotte: I don''t remember calling you a jerk :O]


    As he was busy typing another sarcastic message for her, another message popped up.


    [Charlotte: Please, take me for a drive. How can you say no to me? :( ]


    Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled. She was voluntarily inviting him for a drive, how could he say no to that?


    [Brandon: Though I am still upset, I will still go on a drive with you but I will not talk to you]


    [Charlotte: We will see (wink) (wink) ]


    ¡­..


    Calvin''s place


    Charlotte''s room.


    Rolling on the bed in excitement, Charlotte chuckled and slapped her forehead for behaving like a teenage girl who was falling in love for the first time. But the weird sensation and giddiness made her feel very different.


    Just then her phone started ringing. Thinking that it is Brandon, she quickly grabbed her phone only to realize that it was someone else.


    Reluctantly receiving the call, she faked a smile, "Hey Jimmy."


    Jimmy, the guy from whom she had taken a favor to help Sebastian, asked, "Charlotte, you have my number?"


    "Uh huh, I had it saved."


    "T-That is nice, I don''t expect you to save my number," he beamed.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Charlotte sighed, "Why did you call Jimmy?"


    Hesitating for a while, he answered, "Remember you told me that you would go out for a cup of coffee with me in return to the favor I did for you?"


    "Yes, I do remember it but¡ª"


    "Can we go tomorrow? There is this nice cafe where you get the best scones, I think you will love it."


    "I am not free tomorrow, can we reschedule?" she asked.


    "Hmm I am going out of the country the day after tomorrow and I won''t be back anytime soon but it''s okay if you don''t have time, we can meet later."


    Noticing the tinge of sadness in his voice, Charlotte felt bad. If not for Jimmy''s favour, she would''ve never managed to arrange everything to Sebastian''s perfect proposal. Keeping in mind everything he had done for her and everyone else, she decided to give in. "Ah nevermind, let''s meet tomorrow. Just message me the address and time, I''ll be there."


    "Really?" he beamed.


    "Yes Jimmy and don''t forget to text me," she added before hanging up the call.


    Thinking for quite some time, she messaged Brandon again.


    [Charlotte: Can we reschedule and go for a drive day after tomorrow?]


    As she was impatiently waiting for his text, she received a call from him. After calming himself down, she quickly attended the call without wasting anytime.


    "Why did you reschedule?" he inquired.


    "I-I have something to do tomorrow," she answered.


    "Okay, what?"


    Not wanting to tell him about Jimmy and the coffee because she didn''t want him to freak out or get any wrong idea, she lied, "I have a very important appointment with my dermatologist tomorrow and I can''t miss that."


    "Alright, that is important so we should go the day after tomorrow. Do you want me to go with you?" he asked.


    "No, there is no need for that. I can manage on my own, you don''t have to take all the trouble."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 190 - Panic attack

    "Trouble? Nothing related to you is trouble."


    Wrapping a curl around her finger, Charlotte smiled, "I know." Pausing for a while, she added, "But you really don''t have to, I''ll manage."


    "Alright then, I''ll see you later then."


    After hanging up the call, Charlotte buried her head on the pillow and cursed herself for being such an ass and lying to him. She didn''t want to go out with Jimmy, in fact, she didn''t want to go out with any other man other than Brandon but she had no other choice. Jimmy had helped her alot and in return she had promised to have coffee with him, how could she say no? And she also didn''t want to tell Brandon about it because she knew he would freak out and overthink about the entire situation so she decided to keep only the meeting to herself and tell him about it later.


    ....


    Ellie and Sebastian''s place.


    Caressing her back, Sebastian sighed, "El, will you stop worrying? I am completely alright."


    Tightening her grip around his waist, she snuggled closer without saying a word. She had been feeling restless since he told her about Danny and the whole trial thing. Though he had assured her nothing would go wrong and no one would harm him, she couldn''t calm herself down. How could she feel relaxed knowing that there was someone who was after his life?


    Sitting up straight, he pulled her up. "This is why I didn''t want to tell you about it beforehand. I was planning to tell you after the trial but I didn''t want to hide anything from you." Pausing for a while, he continued, "Now you are making me regret that decision, I should have kept this away from you and never told you about it."


    Scrunching her brows, she complained, "You are being mean now."


    "Because you are making me feel awful honey, you know that I hate it when you are all sad and not chirpy. You have to understand that your mood is directly proportional to my mood."


    Burying her head on his chest, she whined, "I don''t even know what that means but I am just scared."


    Wrapping his arms around her, he sighed, "That is a mathematical term."


    Pouting her lips, she circled her finger on his shirt button. "I never liked maths, it irritated me and made me feel dumb."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he explained, "It means that when you are happy, I am happy and when you are sad, I am sad. In short, your mood affects mine."


    "Maybe I will feel better after the trial¡ªwait, he won''t be released right?" The thought of Danny getting released again made her panic.


    Running her fingers through her hair, he shook his head, "No he won''t be released." Without waiting for her reply, further explained, "It''s a first-degree attempt to murder case, he will be at least convicted with a life imprisionmnet."


    "How can you be so sure?"


    Shrugging his shoulders, he answered, "I am not but my lawyer is."


    Without saying anything, she sighed, "I just don''t want you to get hurt again, What will I do if something happens to you?"


    "Nothing will happen." Pilling away, he assured her, "I promise."


    ¡­.


    Next day.


    Pinching the bridge of her nose, Ellie sighed, "Yes I know Mel but I am still scared."


    "Then don''t go, the boys will handle everything," Melissa suggested.


    "But how can I leave Sebastian alone? Though he is saying that everything is under control, I still cannot be at peace, I need to be with him until I make sure that man cannot harm him anymore."


    "Hmm, I can understand. When Noah told me about it yesterday, I was worried too and I wanted to accompany you all but someone needs to stay in the office as well. Though Patricia will be there but we can''t pressure her with everything," Melissa explained.


    Ellie nodded her head and agreed, "Yes you should stay in the office, Seb told me that the trial won''t take time so we will be back soon."


    "Alright, take care and don''t worry about it too much ,okay?"


    Letting out an affirmative sound, Ellie hung up the call and tossed her phone aside.


    Waving the two bottles, Sebastian inquired, "Honey, do you want maple syrup or honey?"


    "Anything will do," she answered before slumping on the couch.


    Taking his apron off, he chuckled, "Are you still worried about the trial?"


    "How can you not be worried?" she frowned.


    Shrugging his shoulders, he sat down beside her and answered, "Nope, maybe because you are worrying for both of us."


    "This isn''t funny Sebastian¡ª"


    "And it isn''t so serious Ellie, you are worrying too much." Without waiting for her reply, he pulled her in his embrace. "Don''t think about it for now, just eat the delicious pancakes that I made and take a nap."


    Pulling away, she frowned, "Nap? Why would I take a nap?"


    "Oh because I am taking you with me," he answered before giving her a peck on her lips.


    "Why not? I think that we already had this discussion earlier."


    Nodding his head, he agreed, "Yes but I decided not to take you with me because I am afraid that you will have a panic attack or something."


    When she glared at him, he sighed, "Come on El, you couldn''t sleep properly for the whole night. You also woke up at 5:00 am and took Boji and Bojo for a walk¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "Hey, I do that¡­.some times."


    Raising his eyebrows at her, he inquired, "When was the last time you woke up before 8:00 am latest?" When she did not say anything, he continued, "Let me tell you, never."


    Shrugging her shoulders, she answered, "I was just not feeling very sleepy, that''s it."


    Cupping her face, Sebastian sighed, "Honey listen to me for once, okay? Just stay at home and I''ll be back soon, I promise."


    "Are you sure you don''t want me to come for moral support?"


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he chuckled, "Stay at home and relax, that is the kind of support I need from you right now and¡ª" Pulling her closer, he smiled, "Maybe you can shower me with a different kind of support too."


    "I don''t mind giving you that kind of support but now I am hungry." Rubbing her stomach, she added, "I can''t wait to taste your delicious pancakes."


    Kissing her forehead, he smiled, "Let''s have breakfast."


    "Yeah but before that, I need to confess something too." Fidgeting with his collar, she hesitated for a while before explaining, "Like you said before, we shouldn''t keep anything away from each other right?"


    "Yes and for the record, you were the one who started it and not me," he answered.


    "Yeah so¡­.there is something that I am not telling you butI cannot tell you about it yet," she explained.


    "Okay, so what is it?" he inquired.


    She shook her head and answered, "I cannot tell you though I want to but I can''t."


    "Seriously? You are going to hide things from me now?"


    "Ah don''t make this difficult for me, it''s tough already," she grunted.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled, "Alright, you can tell me about it anytime you want."


    "You don''t wanna ask me any other questions?" When he shook his head, she added, "What if it''s something not appropriate?"


    "Is it something not appropriate?" When she shook her head, he answered, "Then there is nothing to worry about, I trust you honey and I know that you would never support or do anything that is wrong."


    Giving him a long kiss on his right cheek, she chuckled, "I love you."


    ¡­.


    Calvin''s place.


    "So now Ellie knows?" Charlotte inquired.


    Ava sighed and nodded her head, "Yeah, she saw us making out on the couch."


    "Pfft didn''t Mel and Noah catch you both making out on their couch?" When she nodded her head, Charlotte chuckled, "Girl, you both need to be careful. What do you run into Sebastian while you both have your tongues inside each other''s mouth?"


    "That will be like the biggest nightmare," Ava answwered.


    "So What kind of a brother is Seb? Possessive?"


    Shrugging her shoulder, she shook her head, "Well, a little bit but he can be super overbearing at times and it''s hard to handle his anger at such times. I just don''t want to trigger that dangerous side of him."


    "Well, you have a button now."


    "What do you mean?"


    Rolling her eyes at her, Charlotte stated, "Ellie, the button. I am sure she can switch on and off any side of him now."


    Thinking about it for quite some time, Ava beamed, "You are right, I think I know what to do now."


    "Good, I think you should tell your brother about it too. It''s not like you are doing drugs or something like that, you don''t have a solid reason to hide it," Charlotte explained.


    Ava nodded her head in agreement and inquired, "What about you? I mean, you are Brandon.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 191 - Sebastians dairy

    Awkwardly clearing her throat, she stuttered, "What about Brandon?"


    Rolling her eyes, Ava scoffed, "Oh come on Char, we stay in the same house and I see you everyday."


    "Yeah I know but¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ava continued, "So what makes you think that I don''t know what is happening between you and Brandon? Don''t you think that I can easily make out what is happening through your activities?"


    "I have no idea what you are talking about."


    "Dinner dates, coming home late, talking over the phone all night which I am very sure that you talk with Brandon and the way you smile is evident enough that you are in love," Ava snapped.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she inquired, "It is that evident?"


    "Duh huh, it''s written all over your face." Without waiting for her reply, she curiously inquired, "So, did you tell him yet?"


    Charlotte sighed and shook her head, "No, I haven''t but I will tell him later."


    "What later?" Without waiting for her reply, Ava continued, "You shouldn''t delay these things, what if someone else comes and sweeps him away? You gotta stake your claim before someone else does."


    Scrunching her brows, Charlotte inquired, "Do you think that is possible? I mean, someone will just barge in and take him away?"


    "Anything is possible and Brandon is a handsome, rich and young man who makes him even more vulnerable," Ava explained.


    Thinking for quite some time, she asked, "Did you feel like that for Calvin too?"


    "Hmm, I think our situation is different from yours. I mean, we just clicked very unex[ectedly. Trust me when I tell you that Calvin was not even the last guy I would choose even if the world would come to an end but it just happened and I could do nothing to stop the strong feeling that just kept developing in my heart whenever I saw him. Anyway, but it''s different with you guys right?" When Charlotte nodded her head, Ava added, "So I would suggest you not to delay this thing any further."


    "I am going for a long drive with him the day after tomorrow, maybe I will tell him then but I don''t know. I haven''t done this before so¡ª"


    "Did he tell you anything that made you feel like he is also interested in you like the way you are?" Ava inquired.


    Taking a sip of her coffee, Charlotte answered, "He told me that he loves me."


    Splattering the coffee from her mouth, Ava coughed vigorously.


    Patting her back, Charlotte sighed, "Be careful girl."


    After calming herself down, Ava widened her eyes in shock. "He what?" Pausing for a while, she added, "So he told you that he loves you?"


    Charlotte nodded her head and answered, "Yes, he did."


    "What did you tell him?" Ava beamed.


    Pouting her lips, Charlotte hesitated for a while before answering, "Hmm I told him that it was one of his tricks to get into my pants and¡ª"


    "You did what? So that man you love told you that he loves but you shut him down saying that it was one of his tricks to bed you?" When she nodded her head, Ava sighed, "Seriously Char? What the hell is wrong with you?"


    "I know that was a dumb thing to do but on a brighter side, I fixed things and now we are going out for a drive tomorrow."


    ''Why tomorrow? Go today, I think that you shouldn''t delay," Ava suggested.


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, Charlotte stuttered, "N-Not today because I have this very important thing to do today."


    "What thing?


    "I-Its an appointment with my dermatologist."


    "Ahh I see, then we will help you get dressed for tomorrow''s date," Ava grinned.


    ¡­..


    Stewart International Group


    Ellie''s office.


    "So you did not go?"


    Eliie sighed and shook her head, "No I didn''t and I think Seb is right, I will surely have a panic attack but I also want to go."


    Placing her hand on her''s, Melissa said, "I understand how you are feeling El but you also need to understand that everything has been already taken care of and nothing is going to happen now or in the future."


    "I know Mel but I¡ª" Pressing her forehead on the desk, she grunted, "Maybe I will feel better after I see Seb or if I witness the trial myself."


    Thinking for quite some time, Melissa suggested, "Then why don''t you go there?"


    "Are you serious?" When she nodded her head, Ellie pursed her lips. "But I don''t even know when the trial starts. What if the trial is already over?"


    "Hmm that is one of the possibilities but what if it''s not?"


    Thinking for quite some time, Ellie suggested, "Can you call Noah and ask him when the trial starts? Because Sebastian won''t tell me anything about the trial, in fact, I am pretty sure that he won''t even tell me what the verdict is."


    "I don''t think so that will work El because Noah will tell me, there is no doubt ij that but Seb is with whom remember? And that guy has big brains so he will definitely figure out something is wrong." Pausing for a while, Melissa inquired, "Does Seb still have this habit of writing down all his important visits and meetings in his notebook?"


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie answered, "I don''t know but he writes something in a dairy kind of a thing and keeps it inside his drawer. I never paid attention to it so I never cared to see what that exactly is."


    "Perfect, I think that is it. We should go find that dairy and echeck if we can find anything which is related to the trial."


    Without wasting any time, both of them rushed towards Sebastian''s office.


    ¡­..


    Inside Sebastian''s office.


    Grabbing Ellie''s arm in excitement, Melissa chuckled, "Oh God, this is so exciting."


    "Exciting?" Ellie frowned.


    "Uh huh, we are inside the big boss''s office, this is so thrilling," Melissa answered.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "Mel, we enter Seb''s office all the time, what is so exciting about it today?" Though it was very easy for her to predict what Melissa meant, there were times when it was hard for her to understand the direction in which her best friend''s brain was running.


    "Oh come on, are you trying to tell me that this isn''t exciting at all? Like I know that we enter Seb''s office all the time but this time it''s different."


    Opening the first drawer, she inquired, "How?"


    "Okay so usually when we enter, Seb is here or at least he knows that we are here right?" When Ellie nodded her head, she continued, "But today, Neither he is here nor he has any idea that we are checking his drawers. It''s like we are stealing some useful information from his office and selling it to the rival company."


    Raising both her hands in the air, she exclaimed, "Two assistants break into the CEO''s office and steal important information."


    Not paying any attention to what Melissa was bragging about, Ellie kept looking for the notebook in the drawer.


    "Aha found it," she exclaimed before taking it out.


    Without wasting any time, she quickly opened it. Caressing the beautiful sketch of a man and woman, she sighed, "This is beautiful."


    "Wow, this is really beautiful," Melissa exclaimed.


    "Do you think Seb made this?" Ellie inquired before flipping over.


    "Hmm I think yes." Pausing for a while, she added, "I mean, I remember Noqah telling me that Seb is a very good artist. Did he not tell you?"


    Ellie shook her head and answered, "I had no idea." Taking a mental note to ask him about it, Ellie flipped over to the last written page. The entire dairy was covered with self notes, important meeting schedules and sketches which made it look very beautiful and organised.


    "There, this is today''s date right?" When Ellie nodded her head, Melissa started going through the list. "Okay let''s see¡ª"


    "Trial at 11:00 am," Ellie murmured before glancing at her watch.


    "It''s just 10:30, you can make it if you leave now," Melissa snapped.


    Without wasting any more time, she kept the dairy in its original place and rushed out of the office.


    "Wait for me," Melissa yelled before rushing after her.


    ¡­.


    Ellie''s office.


    "But El, you don''t even know which room number the trial is in," Melissa explained.


    Grabbing her bag, Ellie answered, "That isn''t a problem, I mean, how tough can it be?"


    "It''s a court El not a park so of course it is tough." Without wasting any more time, Melissa grabbed her bag. "Alright, I am coming with you."


    "But someone has to stay in the office too right?''


    "Ah let''s not worry about that for now, I''ll ask Patricia to take care of things here. Anyway, there is nothing much to do and how can I leave you alone?"


    Left with no other choice, Ellie nodded her head.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 192 - Jinx

    Court.


    After getting down from the cab, Ellie grabbed Melissa''s arm and started panicking, "Why do I feel like I am not supposed to be here?"


    "Stop worrying so much El, it''s not like we are one being convicted." Taking out her phone from her bag, she muttered, "Let me call No¡ªahhh¡­"


    Placing her hand on Melissa''s mouth, she dragged her behind a pillar.


    Removing Elllie''s hand from her mouth, she snapped, "Girl, what are you trying to do?"


    "Sshhh don''t shout, I think I just saw Noah and Sebastian," Ellie muttered before peeking through the pillar.


    Following her suit when Melissa did the same, she pursed her lips."We need to follow them."


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie hissed, "Are you crazy? How can we just follow them?"


    "El, if we don''t follow them how do you expect us to join the trial? We have no other choice." Without waiting for her reply, Melissa dragged her along with her.


    "Mel, I think Seb saw us."


    "Why are you being so pessimistic? You are seriously going to jinx our mission even before we get started for real," Melissa snapped.


    Suppressing the bad jined thought about getting caught and scolded, Ellie had no other choice but to follow her best friend. She didn''t want to go to the trial when Sebastian had asked her not to but she also couldn''t stop herself from attending it, she had to attend it to ease herself and make her heart feel at peace.


    After crossing the security check, both of them frowned when they saw only Noah entering the room.


    "Girl, where is Seb?" Melissa inquired.


    Ellie frowned and shook her head, "I have no idea, wasn''t he with him?"


    "What are you both doing here?"


    Jumping at their toes, Melissa and Ellie squealed and leaped forward in shock.


    Placing her hand on her chest, Melissa gasped, "Oh God you scared me."


    Raising his eyebrows at Ellie, Sebastian inquired, "What are you doing here?"


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, she answered, "W-We are actually lost."


    Vigorously nodding her head, Melissa let out a nervous laugh, "Yes, it''s funny but we are."


    "Lost? What are you both doing here in the first place?"


    Hesitating for a while and left with no other choice, Ellie pounced into his embrace and nervoulsy smiled, "I-I was actually going to the mall to buy something for you but that stupid cab drive brought us here by mistake."


    Playing along with her best friends stupid resoning, Melissa nodded her head, "Yes, we told him that we wanted to go the mall but he heard court so he brought us here."


    Pulling away, Sebastian looked at Ellie and sighed, "El, do I look stupid?" When she shook her head, he continued, "Do you think that I will believe what you just said?"


    "No," she answered.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he stated, "Didn''t I ask you to stay at home?"


    Fidgeting with his tie, she pouted her lips and complained, "I couldn''t stay at home, I was feeling very restless so I decided to go to work but then I wanted to attend it so Mel and decided to come here."


    Tucking a lock of hair behind her ear, he informed, "You both know that trial is a closed one, right?" When both of them gave them a weird look, he explained, "It means that it is not open to the public, you both would have never made it inside without our approval."


    Lowering her head, Ellie sighed and apologized, "I am sorry, I shouldn''t have acted recklessly and just rush here like this. We will just go back and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he asserted, "No need to go back now, just promise me that you''ll stay close to me and not panic or worry about anything." Sebastian knew that if he sent her away, she would spend her entire time overthinking about the whole thing and end up having a headache and feeling miserable. So he decided to let her attend it along with him.


    "I promise, I won''t." After assuring him, she quickly grabbed his hand and added, "I''ll hold you hand this way."


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he chuckled, "Silly."


    "Hmm I think we should go in quickly, it''s almost eleven and the trial is about to start," Melissa informed.


    ¡­.


    Inside the Courtroom.


    As soon as they entered the room, Noah frowned when he saw Melissa. "Babe, what are you doing here?"


    "I came with Ellie," she quickly answered before standing right beside him.


    Grabbing her hand, he inquired, "Why didn''t you tell me that you were coming?"


    "Well, you both were not supposed to know but that plan did not work," she explained.


    "Mr Stewart, you are here," a man politely greeted Sebastian.


    Looking at the man who was neatly dressed in a dark blue suit, Ellie assumed that he was Mr Hudson, Danny''s father.


    Without saying anything, Sebastian nodded his head and guided Ellie towards their seat.


    After a few minutes, the trial summoned and the defendant was guided inside the courtroom along with the police officers.


    Ellie tightened her grip around Sebastian''s hand when she saw Danny. The first time she had seen him, she didn''t get a very nice vibe from him and his presence made her feel uncomfortable. This time, she felt even more uneasy and uncomfortable around him and the negative vibe he was emitting was very hard to ignore.


    Inching closer, he slowly brushed his shoulder against hers and intertwined their hands together. It was a silent gesture from his side asking him not to worry about anything.


    After some time the main witness of the case, the driver of the car which had almost hit Sebastian was brought forward to confess everything.


    The driver told everyone that he was hired by Danny to hit Sebastian with the car and he was also given a lump on amount of money to do so, the judge sentenced Danny with a life imprisonment while the driver was sentenced with ten years imprisonment and a fine.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 193 - Ashamed

    After hearing the verdict, Mr Hudson sighed and lowered his head. Though he wanted his son to get the punishment he deserved, he still couldn''t help but feel extremely awful. When the police and Sebastian contacted him and told him about Danny''s attempt to kill Sebastian, he was horrified and immediately tried to contact his son only to find out that he had already left the country and had turned off all the modes through which he could be communicated.


    Danny had always been a very rebellious and stubborn kid who always got into trouble. In fact, Mr Hudson was tired cleaning all the mess that he left behind. Though Danny always kept going against him, he had never done something as outrageous as getting someone killed.


    Though Mr Hudson was very disappointed and sad over his son''s unpredictable actions, he could do nothing about it. He knew that Sebastian would never let Danny go so he decided to do what was right. He agreed to cooperate with the police and Sebastian to get his son caught and convict him with the punishment he deserved.


    After the judge left, the police handcuffed Danny and escorted him out of the room.


    When he was nowhere to be seen, Ellie finally breathed a sigh of relief. The uneasiness she was feeling at heart slowly started fading away and she finally started feeling at peace.


    Wrapping his arms on her shoulder, Sebastian muttered, "See I told you everything is going to be okay."


    "Mr Stewart, I know that no amount of apology is going to fix what happened in the past but I still want to apologize to you. I am very sorry for Danny''s actions, it''s a shame that my son did something so outrageous and evil." Mr Hudson was truly shameful and sorry for his son''s actions. Though he had already apologized to Sebastian many times, he still couldn''t help but feel guilty towards him and no amount of apology seemed to be enough.


    "It''s alright Mr Hudson, your son''s actions have nothing to do with you and by cooperating with the police and being here, you have already done enough from your side." Pausing for a while, he added, "And I think you are apologizing to the wrong person."


    "I don''t understand¡ª"


    "Danny''s plan failed miserably because Ellie took action at the right time and saved me but she ended up getting hurt, in fact, she was also admitted in the hospital." Placing his hand on Ellie''s back, Sebastian added, "I am sorry but I think I haven''t introduced her yet."


    Pausing for a while, he continued, "She is Ellie Miller, my girlfriend."


    Completely taken aback by the sudden introduction, Ellie was shocked, surprised and excited at the same time. This was the first time Sebastian had introduced her as his girlfriend in front of someone who wasn''t their friend, in fact, Mr Hudson was one of Stewart Group''s business partners. Though she knew that it wasn''t something great or huge, she still tried really very hard not to blush and try to calm herself down.


    "Then I should apologize to the beautiful woman." Extending his hand towards her, he continued, "I am really sorry for everything that you had to go through Ms Miller and I am really very ashamed for my son''s reckless actions."


    Taking his hand, she smiled, "You don''t have to apologize, I did something that was right and important."


    "I wish the two of you all the happiness in the world, God bless you both," After giving them his blessings, Mr Hudson left.


    "I really feel bad for him, though he did the right thing but this must have killed him," Melissa sighed.


    "Hmm that is true, this was really very tough for him but the guy at least did the right thing and Danny got the punishment he deserved," Noah added,


    Kissing the top of Ellie''s head, Sebastian smiled, "Let''s go home, okay?"


    When she smiled and nodded her head, he guided her out of the courtroom.


    ¡­.


    Outside the Court.


    "Dude, you and El should go home and take some rest. There is an important meeting that I need to attend so I have to leave now," Noah stated.


    Sebastian nodded his head and answered, "Alright, I''ll see you both tomorrow then."


    After Noah and Melissa left, Sebastian grabbed Ellie''s hand and inquired, "What is it?" When she gave him a weird look, he added, "I know something is bugging you."


    "How do you do this?" she curiously inquired.


    "Well, let''s just say that I know you very well to make out that something is bothering you." Taping the tip of her nose, he continued, "Now be good and tell me what you are thinking so that we can solve it and go home."


    Fidgeting with the hem of his blazer, she explained, "Yesterday after you told me about the trial, I googled a few things."


    "And?"


    "I found out that life imprisonment comes with a parole¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he continued, "And now you are worried that Danny can parole himself out?" When she nodded her head, he sighed, "Honey, this is why we hire lawyers and don''t worry about it, everything has been already taken care of and nothing can go wrong."


    "Are you sure?" When he nodded his head, she breathed a sigh of relief, "Then there is nothing to be worried about, I am just glad that everything is okay and normal now."


    Kissing her forehead, he smiled, "Let''s go home, I''ll make lunch for us and you can just chill with Bojo and Boji."


    When Ellie nodded her head, he guided her inside the side before jogging towards the driver''s seat.


    ¡­.


    Hawick Mansion.


    Brandon''s room.


    When Markus saw his grandson busy trying out different shirts, he raised his brows. "What are you doing young man?"


    "Nothing much just trying to figure out what I should wear for my date," Brandon answered.


    Crossing his arms in the front, Markus curiously inquired, "Since when did you start being so serious about your dates."


    ¡­..


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:-


    The win-win event ends today and we have successfully fulfilled all the criteria of the event. I would have never been able to make it to the end without your support.


    I just want to take a moment and thank each and everyone one of you :)


    Much love,


    Sofia ?

 Chapter 194 - Serious

    "Grandpa, tell me something." Without waiting for his reply, Brandon inquired, "Do you want me to settle down?"


    Widening his eyes in shock, Markus stuttered in disbelief, "W-What? Settle down?"


    "Uh huh, don''t you think that I am big enough to settle down now? I mean, I am almost twenty-nine and all my friends are in a serious relationship and here I am just flinging around like a man whore." Helplessly shaking his head in disappointment, he sighed, "Anyway, everything is in the past now and I have made up my mind to become serious about life and other things."


    Grabbing his arm, Markus suspiciously inquired, "What is it? Did you do something inappropriate?" When Brandon did not say anything, he gasped, "Did you i.m.p.r.e.g.n.a.t.e someone?"


    "What? No I didn''t grandpa and why are being so suspicious? Didn''t you hear what I just said?" Without waiting for his reply, Brandon repeated himself, "I just said that I want a serious relationship now and I am done with all the flinging and just flirting around. In fact, I just deleted all the useless contacts from my phone already. I am officially a good boy now¡ª" Stopping midway, he placed his hand on his chest and sighed, "Wow, I already feel like a v.i.r.g.i.n again."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Markus curiously asked, "How? How is this miracle happening?"


    "What? Aren''t you happy? Now that I am looking forward to a very serious relationship, it means that there is a high chance of you getting a great-grandchild soon," Brandon explained.


    "Yes I am very happy, I wanted you to be responsible and get serious in your life. It''s finally happening and I am very happy but I am also very curious. I wanna know who did this to you, who is responsible for this sudden transformation?"


    Sitting beside his grandpa, he smiled, "Okay so her name is Charlotte Adam''s and I''ll bring her home very soon so that you can talk to her and get to know her."


    Looking at him with his eyes wide open, Markus exclaimed, "You are in love."


    "Yeah, I think¡ª" Stopping midway, he shook his head, "No I don''t think, I know that I am in love with Charlotte."


    Placing his hand on Brandon''s shoulder, he inquired, "Are you sure? This isn''t a joke right? Because I am taking this very seriously."


    "I am serious too grandpa, what makes you think that I am joking? And I am also very serious about Charlotte," Brandon confidently stated, he no longer wanted to run away or deny the fact that he was desperately in love with Charlotte.


    Clapping his hands in excitement, Markus beamed, "This is awesome and this calls for a celebration, I''ll go open a wine bottle for and you get my favourite scone for me."


    "Wait, what? You want me to get it now?" When Markus nodded his head, Brandon sighed, "Alright but there is a very slim chance of getting one at this hour."


    "Just try once, I am really craving for it."


    "Yeah okay, I''ll quickly rush over and see if it''s still there."


    ...


    Sebastian''s and Ellie''s place.


    Sipping on her favorite strawberry milkshake, Ellie was sitting on the kitchen counter watching Sebastian dice the chicken into small pieces. He had an apron dr.a.p.ed around his waist and the way his biceps flexed while dicing the chicken made her feel giddy and somewhat proud.


    "What are you staring at?" he inquired without taking his eyes off the chopping board and the chicken.


    Swirling the straw around the milkshake, she shook her head, "Nothing."


    Placing the knife down, he washed his hands on the sink before turning towards her. "How did you find out about the trial? I mean the time, I don''t remember telling you the time or anything."


    "Hmm if I tell you, will you get mad?"


    Crossing his hands in the front, he answered, "Well now that depends on what you did."


    "What if I did something that violated your privacy?"


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he sighed, "Honey, there is nothing like privacy when it comes to you. I want you to know everything about me, there is nothing to hide."


    Placing the glass on the counter, she contemplated for a while before answering, "When Mel and I decided to go for the trial, we wanted to know the timing without calling you or Noah so we sneaked into your office and checked your diary."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled, "Good move, you girls are quite smart." He then started dicing the vegetables.


    "You just told me that you want me to know everything about you right?" When he nodded his head, she continued, "So when will you tell me about your amazing sketching skills."


    "Ahh it seems like someone saw my artworks," he chuckled.


    "Yes I did and it makes me wonder what you didn''t tell me about it."


    Shrugging his shoulders, Sebastian answered, "Well, it''s nothing so great."


    "What? Are you kidding me? They are awesome Seb, how are you so talented?" Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed in dissatisfaction, "And here I am who cannot even draw a mango properly."


    "Let''s just say that sketching is the only fun hobby I have."


    "Did you take classes or something like that?" she curiously inquired.


    "I wanted to but mom and dad thought that it was just a waste of time so they asked me to take up some weird language class." Without waiting for her reply, he continued, "But my art teacher from school taught me in secret, like an hour after school or during recess and sometimes during free lessons so I know a thing or two about art."


    Thinking for a while, she inquired, "Since you are sketching and painting for years now, can I see your works? Like there has to be a notebook or anything where you have them all."


    "There is but it''s not here, I''ll show it to you when we go there someday," he answered.


    "Really you will?" she beamed.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 195 - Third time......

    "Of course, why not? But I am telling you, it''s not that great."


    "That is not something for you to decide Mr. Stewart, give me an honour to grade it and if I like it, maybe I will reward you with something special," she stated before blowing a kiss at him.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he smiled, "I am cooking."


    "I know but you are looking way too handsome and cute to not kiss," she answered before stretching her arms towards him.


    Wiping his hands with a clean kitchen towel, he wrapped his arms around her waist. "You seem to be in a very good mood right now."


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she chuckled, "You expect me to be all grumpy and sad when my boyfriend is looking all handsome and attractive?"


    Without saying anything, he inclined his head towards her and captured her lips.


    Ellie closed her eyes and melted in his embrace when his hands started wandering all over her body. Slightly parting her lips, he gave his tongue an access to freely explore her mouth.


    Wrapping her legs around his waist, she pulled him closer. The humorous and pleasant atmosphere around the kitchen suddenly turned hot and steamy.


    She lightly m.o.a.ned when his hand caressed her inner thighs but to her disappointment, he suddenly pulled away.


    With a huge scrunch between her brows, she was about to complain when he showered light kisses all over her face.


    "Time to cook," he exclaimed before drawing his attention towards the abandones chopping board.


    "What was that?" she inquired, all frustrated and annoyed.


    Giving her an innocent shrug, he answered, "What was what?"


    "This is the third time you have¡ª" Stopping midway, she pursed his lips.


    "What are you talking about honey? I seriously have no idea."


    Puffing her cheeks, she got down from the counter and poked his arm. "You are going to pay for this." Without waiting for his reply, she walked out of the kitchen.


    "Honey, wait¡ª" Sebastian chuckled before helplessly shaking his head.


    ¡­.


    5:00 pm


    Cafe


    Wearing a plain black dress, Charlotte entered the cafe only to find Jimmy still waiting for her. She was late by an hour and was expecting him not to be there but surprisingly he was. Feeling bad for keeping him waiting, she sighed and smiled at him.


    When Jimmy saw her, he quickly got up and breathed a sigh of relief, "I thought you wouldn''t come."


    "I am sorry for being late, I just had a long day," she apologized before settling down.


    "It''s completely alright, I did not wait for a long time." Without waiting for his reply, he added, "I have already ordered your favourite Latte and you have to try the scone from this place, they are quite famous."


    Keeping her bag on the table, Charlotte explained, "Listen Jimmy, I am seriously very grateful of you for helping me a few days ago and you are a really sweet guy but I want to make this clear because I don''t want you to get your hopes high." Pausing for a while, she added, "Nothing will ever happen between us, we are very different people." Since she was planning to give Brandon and their relationship a shot, she wanted that to be her best shot and wanted to come clean with everyone beforehand to avoid unnecessary trouble.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he sighed, "I know, in fact, I always knew that I am not your kind. But I am not going to lie to you Charlotte, I really like you alot."


    Placing her hand on his, she stated, "I really didn''t mean to hurt your feelings but I also didn''t want to keep you in the dark."


    "Yeah it''s alright, I am leaving for a few years anyway and I just wanted to meet you before leaving." Pausing for a while, he inquired, "So is there someone else or you just not ready for a serious relationship?"


    "There is someone but to be more clear, even if there was nobody, I would''ve still turned you down because I just don''t feel that way for you."


    "You don''t have to explain anything, I completely understand but we can still be friends right?" When she nodded her head, he asked, "So who is the lucky guy?"


    "His name is Brandon¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he added, "Brandon as in Brandon Hawick?"


    Charlotte nodded her head and answered, "Yes but I know he doesn''t seem like an ideal man to be in a relationship with but he is very sweet and it''s really mean of you to judge him without knowing him in person. And it''s not like I am very nice or¡ª"


    "Charlotte, I never said that Mr Hawick is bad or you shouldn''t be with him." Without waiting for her reply, he continued, "I don''t really know how he is with relationsh.i.p.s or women but in a nutshell, he is a wonderful man. Not many people know this but I do people my father is a board member of that orphanage in Florida, Brandon Hawick makes a large amount of annual donations in that orphanage every year without fail in the name of his parents but he always keeps it very low-key. He has also sponsored many kids under his parents name and there are many other charitable things that he has done. In short, he is a very kind and incredible one."


    "Wow, I did not know that," she smiled when a sense of proudness crept all over her heart.


    Just then the waiter brought the coffee and snacks over.


    "There you go, your latte and the scone," he smiled.


    ¡­.


    Outside.


    "Yes grandpa I am outside the store but I cannot promise to get you one, what if they are out of scones?" Brandon asked.


    "I don''t know, bake it or whatever but get one," Markus fumed.


    "Alright I will¡ª" Brandon stopped midway and frowned when he saw Charlotte inside the cafe happily sipping coffee with a man who looked quite familiar.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 196 - Lie

    "Grandpa I''ll talk to you later." Without waiting for his reply, Brandon hung up the call and quickly entered the cafe.


    ¡­.


    Inside the cafe.


    Quietly sneaking into a corner seat, he took out his phone and called Charlotte. He narrowed his eyes when he saw her gesture the man sitting right across her to keep quiet before receiving the call.


    "Where are you?" he snapped.


    "I am waiting for the doctor," she lied.


    Tightening his grip around the phone, he closed his eyes and gritted his teeth. She was lying to him and that made him feel awful. Though they were not in a relationship or committed to each other yet, it still broke his heart and made him feel low. "Is the doctor there yet?" he asked, still hoping that she would stop lying and tell him the truth.


    "Hmm no, I am waiting for the doctor to arrive," she lied again.


    "So you are still at the clinic waiting for the doctor right?"


    "Yes, what happened? Do you want something?"


    "I just wanted one thing from you Charlotte, to be honest with me." Without waiting for her, he scoffed, "But I think that is too much for you to give me."


    "Bran¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "Don''t eat that scone, it''s too sweet and you won''t like it." Without waiting for her reply, he hung up the call and got up.


    When he saw her looking around, he dashed out of the cafe.


    After talking to Brandon, Charlotte panicked and started looking around. She almost lost her cool and freaked out when he suddenly called her. Not knowing what to say in the panic state, she lied to him like before but her world turned upside down when she heard his last sentence.


    "What happened Charlotte? Is everything okay?" Jimmy inquired.


    When she saw a familiar figure leaving the cafe, she quickly grabbed her bag and rushed after him.


    ¡­.


    Outside.


    "Brandon, wait," she yelled before grabbing his hand.


    Jerking her hand off, he snapped, "Don''t touch me and leave me alone, go enjoy your date."


    "It''s not what you think, let me¡ª"


    Cutting him off, he fumed, "Let you explain? What do you want to explain? Do you have any justification over what you just did? You lied to me Charlotte, how are you gonna fix that."


    Clutching onto his sleeves, she requested, "Please, let me¡ª"


    "Enough, I don''t wanna hear anything, I think I have seen and heard enough." Letting out a mocking chuckled, he scoffed, "Before I entered this cafe, I thought that you are the one for me and I was willing to give up everything for you, I thought we would do great and overcome every difficulty that we face together like normal couples do but I was a fool. I am a stupid idiot man who thought we were a thing and you were also very serious about us."


    "It''s not like that, I am very serious about us. In fact I was telling Jimmy¡ª"


    "Ah Jimmy, how could I even forget that guy?"


    Looking at him with teary eyes, she muttered, "Please Brandon¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he slowly removed her hand from his sleeves. "Why don''t you go inside and enjoy your date with Jimmy, I am done with you."


    Grabbing his arm, she panicked, "No please, don''t go. I know it''s my fault and I shouldt have lied to you but I didn''t want to hurt you¡ª"


    "So you thought that secretly going on a date with some other guy will not hurt me? Or maybe you thought that I would never find out about this." Pausing for a while, he balled his hand into a fist and sighed, "But guess what Charlotte, you made me feel so awful. I wish I had never met you again, I wish you were just a stranger or a fling I dont give a f.u.c.k about."


    Beeping his car open, he added, "I thought you were the one but I was wrong." And without waiting for her reply, he entered his car and drove away.


    Tightening her grip around her bag, Charlotte lowered and started sobbing silently. She didn''t want to cry but tears kept flooding down her cheeks and now matter how hard she tried, it did not stop.


    Just then Jimmy arrived and inquired, "Charlotte what happened?"


    Wiping her tears away, she shook her head, "It''s nothing."


    Without pressing on the matter, he asked, "Do you want me to drop home? It''s about to rain."


    "No it''s alright, I''ll go on my own." Without waiting for his reply, she walked away.


    ¡­..


    Ellie and Sebastian''s place.


    Brushing Bojo''s silky golden brown fur, Ellie sighed, "They don''t even use expensive shampoos or any kind of hair serum but yet look at their hair."


    Without taking his eyes off the doc.u.ment he was reading, he chuckled, "Are you comparing your hard with Bojo''s?"


    "Hmm, his fur is so much better," she answered before running her fingers through his thick silky fur.


    Looking at her, he shrugged his shoulders, "What are you talking about honey, I like your hair, it''s perfect."


    "Really? But I think it''s rough¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he scrunched his brows, "Rough? Are you serious? They are so soft and have this nice chocolatey smell that makes me want to eat them."


    "What?" Getting up, she sat on his lap and chuckled, "You wanna eat my hair?"


    "Hmmm, I can eat you too." Brushing his nose against her cheek, he smiled.


    "What if I am not tasty?"


    "I think you are very tasty and¡ª" he stopped midwway when Elli''e phone started ringing.


    Grabbing her phone from the table, she said, "I think it''s Mel¡ªOh wait, it''s Charlotte."


    "What does she want at this hour?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, she picked up the call, "Hey Char, I¡ª" Stopping midway, she frowned, "What happened?"


    Getting down from his lap, she answered, "I''ll be right there, wait for me." before hanging up the call.


    "What happened?" Sebastian inquired.


    "Charlotte is downstairs, I''ll go and get her. Seb, can you warm some milk by then? It''s raining outside, she might be cold."


    "Okay, go carefully," Sebastian advised before walking inside the kitchen.


    ....


    After ten minutes, Ellie brought Charlotte inside the apartment.


    "Sit here," Ellie instructed before rushing towards her room to get some dry clothes for her. When she arrived downstairs to get Charlotte, she was standing in the rain all by herself, her clothes were soaked and her eyes were swollen and red. Her appearance clearly said that something had happened but no matter how hard Ellie cried, she refused to say anything.


    After getting a set of dry clothes, Ellie said, "Change your clothes first, you must be freezing. Do you want me to help you?"


    When Charlotte shook her head, she directed her towards the guest room.


    After she left, Sebastian frowned, "What happened to her?"


    Ellie sighed and shook her head, "I have no idea."


    "Do you think we should call Brandon over?" he inquired.


    "Hmm I think something happened between them and now she is upset?"


    Gritting his teeth, he scoffed, "This guy is so careless, who leaves a woman alone in the rain like that?"


    "Seb, we can''t blame anyone without knowing the entire truth. I think we should talk to Charlotte first and then decide," she instructed.


    After a few minutes, Charlotte stepped out of the room.


    Ellie guided her towards the couch and sat down beside, "I am right here, you can talk if you want to."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Charlotte muttered, "You were right Ellie, my heart feels so empty now." Hugging her knees, she started crying. Until now, she hadn''t realized how important Brandon was to her. Though she knew that she harboured feelings for him, she had never thought they were this strong and now that she had lost him, it made her feel empty and awful. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t forget about the hurtful expression on his face and the fact that she was responsible for it made her feel even more awful. She had cursed herself several times for lying to him and making things go wrong but there was nothing she could do. Brandon didn''t want to be her or see her and maybe he hated her.


    Wrapping her arms around her, Ellie sighed, "It''s alright, cry until you feel better and let it all out."


    After some time when Charlotte calmed down, she gave her a glass of lukewarm water. "Here, you will feel better."


    Taking the glass in her hand, Charlotte took a sip and mumbled, "Brandon doesnt want me anymore."


    "What? But why?" Ellie inquired.


    Wiping her tears with the back of her hand, she explained, "Do you remember Jimmy?" When Ellie nodded her head, she continued, "He called me yesterday and told me that he will be going out of country for a few years so he wanted to meet me before he leaves."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 197 - Good intentions

    "So did you meet him?" When Charlotte nodded her head, Sebastian further inquired, "Did you tell Brandon about it?"


    "No I didn''t because I thought he would be angry and I don''t want to upset him but¡ª" Stopping midway, she started crying out loud.


    Passing her the tissue box, Ellie sighed, "Don''t cry Charlotte, everything is going to be oka."


    Vigorously shaking her head, she snorted, "Nothing is going to be okay, Brandon doesn''t want me anymore."


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie gasped, "What? Brandon found out about it?"


    "Yes, he saw me in the cafe with Jimmy." Wiping her tears, she added, "I tried to explain everything but he did not listen to me."


    "Why would you do that? Why did you lie to him? You could have told him the truth Char, why did you lie to him?"


    "Maybe she kept this away from her because she didn''t want to hurt him, things would''ve become complicated if she had told him about the meeting," Sebastian explained.


    Glaring at him, Ellie snapped, "I think you should just keep quiet Seb and I know why you are defending her."


    "Honey I¡ª" he stopped midway when she completely ignored him and started talking to Charlotte.


    Rubbing her back, Ellie suggested, "Why don''t you talk to him? Call him or maybe just visit him, talk it out."


    "He is not receiving my call and I don''t think so he wants to talk to me as well." Wiping her tears away, she added, "I didn''t want to meet Jimmy but he had helped me alot recently so it was hard not to have a cup of coffee with him to return the favour." Grabbing Ellie''s hand, she whined, "What do I do El? How do I fix this?"


    "Firstly, Char you need to understand that lying is bad and you shouldn''t lie no matter what happens because once you start lying, the relationship just starts falling apart and things become really very ugly," Ellie explained.


    While the girls were busy talking, Sebastian slowly grabbed his cell phone and quietly made his way towards his room.


    ¡­.


    Inside Sebastian''s room.


    Thinking for a while, Sebastian called Brandon. He wanted to lecture him and ask him to take Charlotte with him because their problem was spoiling his wonderful evening with Ellie. He did not take a day off to deal with their problem.


    After a few rings when Bradnon did not receive the call, he frowned and called him again and as soon as he received the call, Sebastian snapped.


    "What is wrong with you? Didn''t we talk about how you should make Charlotte feel loved and that you care about her? So why is crying and all sad because of you?"


    "Dude, what the hell are you talking about?" Without waiting for his reply, Brandon scoffed, "Anyway, if you are talking about Charlotte then I am interested, I dont wanna talk about her or anything related to her."


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian retorted, "And why don''t you wanna talk about her? Don''t you care about her anymore?"


    "It''s not about caring or how I feel about her Sebastian, it''s about what she did to me."


    "Why are you complaining like a baby Brandon?" After taking a deep breath to calm herself down, Sebastian sighed, "Look, I know that you are upset because she did not tell you about her meeting with that camping guy¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Brandon snapped, "Jimmy, that guy''s name is Jimmy."


    "Yeah Jimmy, so I can understand that you are feeling bad because she lied to you but did you try to understand the reason behind her action? Did you even give her a chance to explain?" Sebastian inquired.


    "What explanation Sebastian? And why should I even hear her out? A lie is a lie no matter what the reason is, I don''t¡ª"


    Cutting Brandon off, he snapped, "How can you judge her actions so fast? Don''t you think that you are being unfair? Why wouldn''t you give her a chance to explain herself." Without waiting for his reply, Sebastian added, "Even I did not tell Ellie about my meeting with Charlotte and I am not trying to justify my act and neither am I saying that I was right but no matter how wrong I was ans how stupid that move was, my intentions were pure. I didn''t want Ellie to feel bad or insecure because of that, I didn''t want her to overthink about the entire situation. It would have affected our relationship resulting in a major step back."


    When Brandon did not say anything, Sebastian sighed, "Charlotte had taken help from Jimmy for us, we wanted a nice camping ground and I wanted a perfect proposal so she selfishly helped us. In return for the favour, Jimmy asked her out for a cup of coffee before he leaves. She did not want you to overthink about the whole situation so she did not tell you about it, she was scared that you would overthink and it would harm the relationship that hasn''t started yet. Though her move was stupid and inappropriare but her intention were innocent and she ddi this not because she doesnt take you or this relationship seriously Bradon, she did this because she cares about you and values the bond and relationshop she shares wiith you."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Brandin sighed, "I am still very mad about it, do you have any idea how I felt when I saw her with some guy drinking coffee? We were supposed to go for a long drive but she cancelled on us saying she has an appointment with the doctor. But I entered the cafe to buy a scone but I found her there instead."


    "Yes I can understand that it''s very frustrating for you but are you really going to give up on her and the bond that you share with her for a small misunderstanding which happened even though she had good intentions?


    "Where is she?" Brandon inquired.


    "She is in my place, she is crying a lot," Sebastian answered.


    "Hmm, I''ll be there soon."


    After hanging up the call, Sebastian tossed his phone on the bed. He frowned when he saw both the furry babies peacefully snuggling with each other on the bed.


    Sitting beside them, he frowned deeper, "Now when did you both come here?" When both of them ignored him, he got up and warned them, "You can snuggle here until our guest leaves but you have to leave as soon as Ellie comes in, okay?"


    When both of them started wagging their tails, he took it as a yes and stepped out of the room.


    ¡­.


    Downstairs.


    When he came down, Charlotte was sitting on the couch all by herself holding an empty tissue box in her hand.


    "Where is El?" he inquired.


    "I am here," Ellie answered from the kitchen.


    Without telling Charlotte anything, he quickly rushed inside the kitchen.


    ¡­.


    Inside the kitchen.


    "What are you doing here?"


    "Making some coffee for her, I hope she will feel better soon," Ellie sighed before wrapping her arms around his waist. "She is so sad, I feel so bad for her."


    Kissing the top of her head, he answered, "Everything is going to be okay."


    "I hope so, I am not used to seeing Charlotte like this."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he frowned, "did she finish the whole box all by herself?"


    "Whole box of what?"


    "Tissue, that was a new box and I had opened it today oin the morning." When Ellie gave him a weird look, he shrugged his shoulders, "It''s not like we don''t have anything biix honey but I am shocked, how much did she cry?"


    "She is very upset today, why don''t you take out another box for her? It''s in the top shelf," she instructed.


    "Hmm okay but I don''t think that she will be needing it," he informed before running his fingers through her hair.


    Scrunching her brows, she curiously inquired, "How are you so sure about that?" When he did not say anything, she scoffed, "You called Brandon over didnt you?"


    "We had no other choice honey, the only person who can calm her down is Brandon and¡ª"


    "What if he comes here and starts shouting at her again?"


    Vigorously shaking his head, he assured her, "No he won''t honey, he is here to calm her down and to solve everything with her. I have already discussed the whole matter with him and he is ready to talk to her, now all we have to do is give them some privacy."


    Thinking for quite some time, she sighed, "Alright, if you think this will work then we have nothing to worry about."


    Pressing his lips on her forehead, he smiled, "Don''t stress about it now, everything will be okay and after they leave, we can spend some quality time together."


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she smiled, "Don''t we always spend qua;ity time together?"

 Chapter 198 - Cuddle all day

    Shrugging his shoulders, Sebastian sighed, "No amount of time is enough when I am with you." Pulling her closer, he added, "Can''t we just forget about work and everything else and just cuddle all day?"


    Pulling his cheeks, she chuckled, "You wanna abandon your precious work and cuddle with me all day?" When he nodded his head, she continued, "If we both don''t work and cuddle all day, how will we survive and what will we eat?"


    "Don''t worry about that, I have enough savings for us to survive through and through. Then we will send our favorite kid to college and then¡ª"


    "K-Kids?"


    He nodded his head and answered, "Yes, kids."


    "You think about stuff like that?" she curiously inquired.


    "Yes, don''t you?" When she shook her head, he thought for a while before answering, "Hmm it''s okay though, I can think for both of us."


    Ellie was about to ask him something but a sudden phone call interrupted her.


    Looking at the caller ID, Sebastian informed, "It''s Brandon, I''ll just buzz him in."


    "Do you think it will be okay to leave them alone? I mean what if he lashes out at her?"


    "Don''t worry honey, Brandon will not do that. We just need to give them some privacy and they can just talk it through," he assured her before stepping out of the room.


    ¡­..


    Living room.


    When Brandon stepped into the apartment, he sighed and helplessly shook his head when he saw Charlotte on the couch weeping.


    "She has been crying for almost an hour now without any break and just for the record, she has already finished the first box of tissue and that is the second one," Sebastian informed before walking away. He wanted them to solve their problems as soon as possible and leave his place, he did not like having visitors especially when he had taken a day off to spend time with his beloved.


    After Sebastian left, Brandon made his way towards the couch and sat down beside her.


    When Charlotte saw him, she started sobbing louder and threw herself in his arms.


    Brandon, who was not at all ready for the sudden hug attack gasped and quickly wrapped his arms around her. "Careful Charlotte."


    Clinging onto him, she started blubbering, "I thought I would never see you again." When he did not say anything she clung onto him even more and sobbed harder, "And now you are not saying anything, are you here to officially break up with me?"


    Caressing her messy wet hair, he sighed, "No I am not here for that." Keeping quiet for quite some time, he inquired, "Why did you lie to me Char?"


    Vigorously shaking her head, she answered, "I didn''t want to but then I thought you would get mad and not talk to me if I told you about Jimmy. So I kept it away from you and decided to meet him in secret." Without waiting for his reply, she continued, "But as soon as I met Jimmy, I told him that nothing can happen between us because I love you. He was okay with it and we were just having a cup of coffee but you saw us and got all angry."


    Throwing her hand in her mouth, she started whimpering, "You were so mad and did not give me a chance to explain myself, you even shouted at me."


    Wiping her tears away, he sighed, "Don''t cry anymore, your eyes already look so swollen."


    Burying her head on his chest, she sobbed, "You said that you don''t want me anymore but I want you to want me." Pulling away, she looked at him and inquired, "What can I do to make you want me again?"


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ears, he answered, "You don''t have to do anything." Kissing the back of her hand, he continued, "It''s not like I don''t want you anymore Charlotte, you are way too precious to me to let go. I was just mad and couldn''t control myself after I saw you with some guy when you were actually supposed to be in the clinic. How would you feel if I tell you that I am stuck in a meeting but you see with some woman at the movies?"


    Clutching onto his shirt, she started whimpering again, "Are you thinking of doing the same thing just to teach me a lesson? I swear Brandon, if you do that then I will kick that girls ass and ground you forever."


    "I won''t do anything like that and I don''t want you to repeat this in the future." Pausing for a while, he explained, "If you had told me the reason behind meeting Jimmy then I would have never stopped you from seeing your friends but considering the fact that you had a thing with that guy, I would have definitely accompanied you. Anyway, what I mean is that dont lie to me in the future because once we start lying to each other, things will start going downhill."


    Kissing her knuckles, he added, "I don''t give a damn about the number of people you have dated or flinged in the past, all I care about is what happens after we get into a relationship because that is what matters."


    "I promise I will never lie to you in the future." Placing her hand on his cheek, she continued, "I want to give you and this relationship my everything Brandon, I want both of us to give it our best shot."


    Caressing the side of her arm, he smiled, "See, we both are in the same boat now."


    Wiping the remaining droplets of tears away, she sighed, "You made me cry so much today, now I am going to have a really tough time fixing my puffy eyes."


    "They will be okay by tomorrow, don''t worry about it."


    Touching her own cheeks, she pouted her lips, "I bet I am looking very ugly with all the crying."


    "Not at all, you look very beautiful," he smiled.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 199 - Anti-social

    Smacking his arm, she chuckled, "You are such a liar."


    "Let''s go home, okay? You must be tired after crying like a baby for hours now."


    Pouting her lips, she complained, "Whose fault is it?"


    "Hey, how is it suddenly all my fault now?" he inquired.


    Without saying anything, she snuggled closer and closed her eyes, "Hmm just hug me a little longer and then you shall be forgiven."


    While the new couple had already reconciled and were busy hugging, the other couple were extremely happy for them.


    "They look cute together, don''t they?"


    Hugging her from behind, Sebastian stated, "Hmm but not as cute as us." Glancing at the watch, he frowned, "It''s so late already, when are they planning to leave?"


    "Seb will you stop being rude, they are our guests and we are supposed to greet them properly, not shoo them away," she snapped.


    Scrunching his brows, he complained, "But this way they will spoil out plans."


    Turning towards him, she crossed her hands on the front. "I don''t remember us having any plans."


    "How can you forget? We were supposed to spend some quality time together and cuddle all day. Maybe order pizza for dinner and watch movies until you fall asleep in my arms," Sebastian explained.


    Knocking his forehead, she chuckled before walking downstairs.


    "Babe wait, don''t go down." Grabbing her hand, he explained, "If we go down, they will stay for a longer time but if we don''t, they will leave soon."


    Without saying anything, she hooked her arms around his and started dragging him downstairs along with her.


    When Brandon saw the two of them, he quickly got up along with Charlotte. "Thanks for taking care of her and letting us talk it out."


    "It''s no big deal we are friends after all and we are supposed to help each other in need, I am just glad that you both solved the misunderstanding," Ellie smiled.


    Wrapping his arms around her shoulder, Brandon exclaimed, "Yes, we will be careful in the future."


    "So you both are leaving now¡ª" Sebastian stopped midway when Ellie sneakily pinched his waist, warning him not to say anything mean. Clearing his throat, he rephrased his sentence, "I mean, you both can stay for a while because it''s raining quite heavily outside."


    "Ah no it''s alright, I have my car and an umbrella too so we should be fine," Brandon answered.


    Giving Ellie a hug, Charlotte stated, "Thank you so much El."


    "You don''t have to thank me Char, you have also helped us a lot," Ellie answered.


    After both of them left, Sebastian slumped on the couch and took a deep breath, "This place feels so peaceful when it''s just the two of us."


    "I think we should throw a party some day, what do you think?"


    "In here?" When Ellie nodded her head, he sighed, "Why?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, she answered , "Just like that, Mel and Noah call everyone over at times, even Owen and June threw a party. I think we should throw one this time."


    "You seriously wanna do it?"


    "Uh huh, why not?"


    "Do you seriously wanna slave and cook for people who¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Ellie chuckled, "What do you mean by people? They are our friends Seb and why are you being so anti-social? It will be fun, we should do it."


    "Okay if you really wanna do it then I am ready to help, let feed those useless people someday."


    Smacking his arm, she chuckled, "Don''t refer to your friends like that, they help you all the time."


    "Hey, it''s not like I don''t," he retorted.


    Without waiting for her reply, he pulled her in her embrace. "Alright, we will do as you say. Let''s plan it out after taking a nice romantic nap."


    "How is a nap romantic?" she chuckled.


    "Everything that I do with you is romantic."


    ¡­.


    Noah and Melissa''s place.


    "Do you think I am doing the right thing?"


    "What are you talking about?....mmmm a little harder," Melissa instructed.


    Increasing the pressure on her foot, Noah sighed, "I am talking about hiding Ava and Calvin''s relationship from Seb." Pausing for a while, he continued, "Doesn''t feel right."


    "Hmm I know, I don''t like keeping anything away from Ellie as well but we promised them."


    "Yeah and I don''t know, I''m not sure and confident about the whole idea of Ava dating Calvin." Placing her other food on his thigh, he started massaging it. "It''s Calvin we are talking about, I mean he is a friend and it''s not like I hate him or anything but it''s hard to trust him with my sister."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she inquired, "Do you have any plans dating Calvin?"


    "What no, why on earth would I date him?" he frowned.


    "Okay so who is the one dating him?"


    "Ava," he answered.


    "So why are you so concerned about them? Ava is your sister and I know that you are worried and concerned about her but that doesn''t give you any right to interfere in her life." Pausing for a while, she further explained, "Calvin and Ava are surely the most unexpected couple but they love each and they also trust each other, honey. You can''t just judge someone based on their past activities and its Calvin we are talking about, he will never hurt Ava."


    Helplessly nodding his head, he sighed, "Yeah and it''s not like I am against their relationship or anything, maybe I am just being paranoid."


    "Uh huh and judgy." Thinking for a while, Melissa inquired, "Wait, isn''t is your trying to hook Ava up with some guy?" When he nodded his head, she raised her brows. "And she also wanted to hook Seb with Char, right?"


    "Yes honey, why do you ask?" Noah curiously inquired but the sly smile on her face already explained everything.


    Slumping on the couch, she chuckled, "Oh well, Rebecca Stewart is not used to losing and hates it when things don''t happen according to her plan." Grinning from ear to ear, she added, "This is going to be very interesting."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 200 - Future planning

    Ellie and Sebastian''s place.


    Snuggling closer, Ellie placed her chin on his chest and curiously inquired, "Seb, can you tell me what else do you think?"


    Keeping the paper that he was intently reading on the side table, Sebastian pulled her closer. "About what honey?"


    "Hmm about what you think about us and the future."


    "Well, it''s nothing so extravagant."


    "It doesn''t matter, tell me everything," she beamed.


    Sensing her enthusiasm, he chuckled, "You seem so excited." Without waiting for her reply, he started explaining, "As soon as we get married, we will switch places, somewhere more spacious where Bojo, Boji and our kids can run around and play without any kind of interruption."


    "Kids?"


    "Yes, a boy and a girl," he answered.


    Smiling at him, she asked him to continue. She had no idea whether these plans would ever turn out to be true but she didn''t wish to think that it won''t. Though she wanted Sebastian to be a part of her life in the future but she had never thought about it so far and now she couldn''t wait to hear everything that they had planned for their future.


    "We will let the kids do whatever they want, no routines or any kind of schedule but they will have to complete their homework in time because education is important too. We won''t pressure them for anything and they are not allowed to study during weekends because we will take them out to have fun." Thinking for a while, he added, "We will also take them for yearly trips without fail and maybe a few more short trips all through the year. After they become a.d.u.l.ts, we will shift to the countryside and enjoy the rest of our lives in peace."


    Without saying anything, she cradled on top of him and pressed her lips against his. Pulling away after a few seconds, she smiled, "I love you even more now."


    Caressing her back, he inquired, "Do you like it?"


    "I love it, it''s so perfect but you do know that things can turn out to be different."


    "Hmm I know." Caressing her cheeks, he stated, "I am not sure if things will go according to my plan but I do know that you are the one I wanna spend the rest of my life with. We might face difficulties in the future and convincing your dad to trust me with his daughter is not going to be easy¡ª"


    "And convincing your mom is not that easy too," she chuckled.


    "Right but despite all the difficulties, I know that we will overcome everything and live a happy life together." Kissing her forehead, he smiled, "With you by my side, I can face any kind of problems and bummers that will come in my way."


    Burying her face on his chest, she whimpered, "Now you are making me cry."


    Caressing her back, he chuckled, "Why are you crying now? I wanted to make you happy and feel loved honey, you are supposed to kiss and hug me not wet my t-shirt."


    "This is happy tears," she stated.


    ¡­..


    TWO WEEKS LATER.


    Stewart International Group.


    Ellie''s office.


    "So how is it going with the big boss?"


    "Who bigg boss?" Ellie inquired.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Melissa chuckled, "Well, there are only two big bosses in this office and I am dating one."


    "It''s going great and before I forget, we are throwing a dinner party this Sunday so don''t forget to come."


    "Dinner party and all huh, that is amazing. Now you both are giving out real couple vibes." Without waiting for her reply, Melissa grabbed her arm and excited;y inquired, "So did anything happen?"


    "What happened?"


    Rolling her eyes, Melissa slumped up in her chair, "You both are unbelievable."


    Shrugging her shoulder, Ellie inquired, "What are you talking about?"


    "I cannot believe that you both haven''t banged each other yet, I should seriously salute your will power and gut."


    Knocking her best friend''s shoulder, Ellie sighed, "Language Mel, don''t forget that we are still in the office."


    "I think that my kid who is not even born yet will end up losing his or her v.i.r.g.i.nity before you both do," she snapped.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie chuckled, "You and your silly examples, you are seriously unbelievable Mel."


    Placing her hand on her waist, Melissa scoffed, "Don''t laugh, in fact, you should be ashamed. I mean even Calvin and Ava are¡ª" Stopping midway, she threw her hand on her mouth and gasped.


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie exclaimed, "You know."


    ''What do you mean by you know?" Gasping louder, Melissa screamed, "You know too."


    "Of course I do, oh my God Mel I had been wanting to talk to someone else for a long time," Ellie stated.


    "Me too, in fact, I didn''t even want to keep this away from you but I had no other choice, they asked me not to tell anyone," Melissa explained.


    "Me too, they told me the same and it''s killing me that I cannot tell Seb about it," Ellie added.


    Grunting in frustration, she sighed, "Ah Noah keeps fussing about it too, he doesn''t want to hide this from Seb anymore but we don''t have a choice because we promised Ava and Cal that we will not tell anyone about it until they do. This is such a torture and¡ª"


    "I literally saw them making out on the couch and you have no idea how awkward it was." Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "It was so embarrassing too."


    "What? You saw them making out on the couch too?"


    "What do you mean?"


    "We saw them doing the exact same thing and Noah was so mad, you have no idea how difficult it was to calm him down," Melissa stated.


    Pinching the bridge of her nose, Ellie explained, "I am sure that Sebastian will react in the same way too but I think he will also understand later. I mean, if that is what Ava wants and if she is happy then Seb will support them no matter what happens."


    "That is true, Seb is really supportive," Melissa added.


    "Did you hear about Brandon and Charlotte?" Ellie inquired.


    Clapping her hand, Melissa squealed, "Ahh I did, I saw them in the park the other day and they were all over each other."


    "Well then I guess you and Noah have competition," she chuckled.


    "Are you kidding me? Brandon and Char are a whole new level, there is no way we can match their level of intimacy and craziness," Melissa explained.


    When Ellie did not say anything, she continued, "Maybe you and Seb can match their level and¡ª"


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie snapped, "What? That is never going to happen?"


    "Why not? I mean you people haven''t started it yet so it''s easy to deny but once you get started, there is no way to stop." When she did not say anything, Melissa continued, "So tell me something."


    "What?"


    "You and Seb have been staying together for a long time now, right?" When Ellie nodded her head, she added, "So are you telling me that during this whole time, you both have never¡­..I mean not even close to or maybe half way?"


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, Ellie quickly opened the file. "I need to finish reviewing this before Seb comes back."


    "Where did he go?"


    "He wanted to meet Calvin and discuss something."


    ¡­.


    Inside Calvin''s office.


    A soft m.o.a.ning sound lingered throughout the office making the atmosphere all hot and steamy.


    Sliding her hand from his chest to his belt, Ava quickly unbuckled it his belt in a haste.


    Pulling away, she complained, "Why is your belt always so tight?"


    Helplessly shaking his head, Calvin chuckled, "Why do you always try to open it in the wrong way?"


    Running her finger through his chest, she inquired, "Don''t you have a meeting?"


    Unbuckling his belt, he sighed, "What makes you think I even care about that damned meeting?" Slowly unzipping her dress, he smiled, "I know my priorities and right now my top priority is to satisfy my girlfriend."


    Just then someone knocked at the door.


    "Someone is here."


    Trailing kisses down her neck, he grunted, "Don''t bother."


    After a few minutes, Calvin''s phone started ringing and he reluctantly picked it up from the table, ready to bash the person for disturbing him but he ended up widening his eyes in shock.


    "I-It''s Seb," he exclaimed before passing the phone to Ava.


    "Seb? Then why are you giving it to me? Answer it," she instructed.


    After taking a few deep breaths, he quickly received the call. "Hello, Seb?"


    "Dude, I am standing outside your office, open the door," Sebastian informed.


    "What? I-I mean, what are you doing outside?" Calvin stuttered.


    Slapping her forehead, Ava quickly grabbed her purse, shoes and cell phone before rushing towards Calvin''s desk.


    "I want to talk to you about something," Sebastian answered.


    Hesitating for a while, Calvin said, "O-Okay, wait for a sec."


    "Hmmm, I am waiting."


    After hanging up the call, Calvin rushed towards Ava.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 201 - Dinner party

    "Babe what are you doing?" Calvin snapped before pulling her away from the desk.


    "What do you mean? I am hiding," Ava muttered.


    Looking at the tiny enclosed space under his desk, he frowned, "In here? Are you sure?"


    "I squeezed myself in here last time too and I was just fine, don''t worry about me and just open the door," she instructed before squeezing herself under the desk.


    Without wasting any more time, Calvin rushed towards the door and opened it.


    With his hands crossed in the front, Sebastian frowned, "Seriously, what took you so long?"


    Awkwardly scratching his forehead, Calvin stammered for a while before answering, "I was just doing a thing."


    "What thing?"


    "J-Just a normal thing." Without waiting for Sebastian''s reply and escaping from any further questioning, he quickly asked him to come in.


    As soon as he entered the office, Calvin quickly closed the door.


    Looking at him, Sebastian raised his brows, "What were you actually doing?" Looking at Calvin''s half unbuttoned shirt and unzipped pants, he scoffed, "At least wear your pants properly Cal."


    Realizing that he forgot to buckle his pants, Calvin quickly turned around and fixed his pants and shirt.


    Looking around, Sebastian inquired, "You are alone?"


    "Yes, why do you ask?" Calvin nervously inquired.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he answered, "If you are alone then¡ª"


    Understanding what he meant, Calvin shrugged his shoulders, "Well, since I stopped seeing other women and I also stopped flinging, I had to do something. Self love is important, right?"


    "In here? This is your office and it''s working hours," Sebastian frowned.


    "Self love has no time and no fixed place, you gotta start whenever you feel like." Ignoring the weird expression in his face, Calvin added, "Sit down first."


    Looking at the couch, Sebastian inquired, "Were you sitting on the couch earlier?" When Calvin nodded his head, he answered, "I am good."


    "Okay so what brings you here?"


    "Yes before I forget, we are throwing a dinner party this Sunday so don''t forget to come," Sebastian informed.


    "Sure, I''ll be there." without waiting for his reply, Calvin continued, "You could have told me about it over the phone."


    "I know but I wanted to talk about something else too."


    Gulping in nervousness, Calvin inquired, "What do you wanna talk about?"


    "Remember that collaboration we talked about last year?" When he nodded his head, Sebastian continued, "Noah had planned out the entire thing and we are ready to discuss."


    "That is great, let''s fix the deal then¡ª"


    "Just like that? We first need to discuss everything and plan it out properly," Sebastian stated.


    "Hmm okay, we can discuss this later. I will drop by your office tomorrow morning and then let''s talk about it."


    "Alright, I''ll let Noah know." Glancing at his watch, Sebastian sighed, "I need to go now, El is waiting for me. I''ll see you tomorrow in the morning then."


    After Sebastian left, Calvin quickly locked the door and rushed towards his desk.


    "Babe, are you alright?" he inquired before helping her out.


    Slumping on the chair, Ava started fanning herself. "It''s so hot down there, I couldn''t even breathe properly."


    Taking out his handkerchief, he started wiping the beads of sweat from her forehead, "I told you hiding there is a really bad idea."


    "I know but we couldn''t let Seb see me, you have no idea how sharp that man''s mind is and I am very sure that he would have figured out something is wrong if he had seen us together," Ava explained.


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he stated, "He was here to invite me for the dinner party."


    Scrunching her brows, she pouted her lips, "They haven''t invited me yet."


    "You are his sister, why do you even need an invitation?"


    "Well that is true, I''ll just show up and start eating," Ava chuckled.


    ¡­.


    Stewart International Group.


    "Today?" When Noah nodded his head, Melissa instructed, "Don''t forget to buy mom''s favourite donuts then."


    "Do you wanna go? Mom told me to ask you to ask you first."


    "Of course I wanna go honey, it''s been so many days since we had dinner with your parents," Melissa smiled.


    Looking at Ellie, Noah added, "Mom invited Seb over too and he told me that he will take you with him."


    Dropping the file on the floor, Ellie widened her eyes in shock, "What? Me? But why?"


    "Girl, are you freaking out?" Melissa chuckled.


    "Duh huh, of course I am. What else do you expect me to do and how am I supposed to react?" Ellie snapped.


    "El don''t worry, mom and dad are pretty easy going," Noah explained.


    "Yes and they are really very nice and super sweet." Placing her hand on Ellie''s shoulder, Melissa whispered, "A hundred times better than your future mother-in-law."


    Pinching the bridge of her nose, Ellie sighed, "I don''t know guys, I don''t think I am ready to meet Sebastian''s parents or his aunt and uncle."


    "Oh come on, you are worrying for nothing, it''s not gonna be tough at all."


    "What is not gonna be tough?" Sebastian inquired before walking inside the room.


    "I just told Ellie that you are taking her for dinner at my parents'' place tonight and she is freaking out," Noah chuckled.


    Wrapping his arms on her shoulder, he stated, "What is there to freak out? It''s just a normal dinner invitation." Looking at Ellie who was glaring at him, he added, "But if she is really not comfortable then we don''t have to go."


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie snapped, "We? What do you mean by we?" Without waiting for his reply, she inquired, "So if I won''t go, you won''t go either?"


    Nodding his head, Sebastian answered, "Yes, I am not going without you."


    "What? Why would you do that?" she frowned.


    Shrugging his shoulders, he explained, "Either we are going together or we are not going at all."


    Placing her finger on his chest, Ellie frowned, "I know what you are trying to do Sebastian Stewart."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 202 - Sly

    Shrugging his shoulders, Sebastian inquired, "What am I trying to do?"


    "You are purposely saying this because you know that there is no way I would let you miss this dinner." Throwing her hand in her mouth, she gasped, "You are turning sly day by day Sebastian Stewart."


    "Sly? How can you call me sly?" Pinching her lower lips, he chuckled, "I just said that I am not going anywhere without you, doesn''t that make me a good boyfriend?"


    When Ellie glared at him, he looked at Melissa and inquired, "You tell me Mel, doesn''t that make me a good boyfriend?"


    "Of course, it makes you so good and loyal," Melissa answered.


    "Mel, how can you take his side like that?" Ellie scoffed.


    "Alright, lets not fuss about it anymore but I am going to stick to what I said, we are going together or we are not going at all," Sebastian stated in a very affirmative and serious tone.


    Raising his hand, Noah added, ??Just to let you know, mom is really anticipating Seb''s arrival because he seldom agrees to visit them."


    "And now if mom finds out that Seb did not come because you didn''t want to go then imagine what she will think of you." When Ellie gulped in nervousness, Melissa placed her hand on her shoulder. "But don''t worry El, I''ll tell mom that though it seems like you have a really bad attitude but it''s nothing like that."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Noah sighed, "I hope she will not misunderstand our Ellie."


    "Of course she will but¡ª" Kissing the top of her head, Sebastian smiled, "Don''t worry, I''ll talk to her later and explain everything."


    Thinking for quite some time, Ellie snapped, "No need to say anything, I''ll go." There was already a pressure of convincing Sebastian''s mother to accept their relationship, Ellie had no intention of unnecessarily upsetting someone else too.


    "Really? It''s okay if you¡ª??


    Placing her finger on his lips, she glared at him, "Don''t say a word Mr Stewart."


    "Yes because if you do, Ellie will throw you out of the house," Melissa chuckled.


    Grabbing her wrist, Sebastian kissed her palm and stated, "My Ellie will never do that, right honey?"


    Slapping his hand away, Ellie scoffed, "Of course I will. Play you sly tricks on me one more time, I''ll throw you out of the house and stay there peacefully with my two fur babies or I will take the two of them and shift to my old apartment."


    Pating Sebastian''s shoulder, Noah sighed, "The threats have started bro, you gotta be careful now."


    ¡­..


    Clavin''s place.


    Charlotte''s room.


    Snuggling closer, Charlotte sighed, "You should go."


    "Okay," Brandon answered before tightening his grip around her. She had been telling him the same thing for about an hour now but she was also too reluctant to let him go and it was the same for Brandon.


    After the intense discussion and reconciliation, Charlotte and Brandon started dating each other officially. They would spend almost all their time together and were almost inseparable. Things were so intense that he even took her to his office where she would sit on the couch and do her thing while he would complete his work.


    Despite the initial difficulties, their relationship was running quite smoothly and things were turning to be much more serious than they had thought. Both of them were seriously giving this relationship their best shot and wanted it to be something really very special.


    "I don''t want you to go," she complained.


    Kissing the top of her head, he sighed, "I don''t wanna go either but I have to attend the meeting babe, it''s important."


    Drawing circles around his button, she asked, "Can I come with you?"


    "I don''t really have a problem but won''t you get bored?" When she shook her head, he smiled, "Alright then, lets go."


    Burying her head on his chest, she apologized, "I am sorry for being so clingy, I¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he frowned, "What are you apologizing for? I love it when you are clingy, it makes me feel loved."


    Slipping her hand inside her shirt, she whispered, "There are other ways to make you feel loved."


    "I-I think we should go." Without waiting for her reply, he quickly got up.


    Raising her brows, she grabbed his arm and curiously inquired, "Seriously Brandon, what is wrong with you?"


    "What is wrong with me? Nothing babe, everything is normal."


    "You know what I am talking about." Taking a deep breath, she continued, "It''s not like we have to do it now but the way you are avoiding it is making me feel uncomfortable."


    "Avoiding? I am not avoiding anything."


    "And now you are lying to me." Helplessly shaking her head, she got down from the bed and made her way towards the washroom.


    Slumping on the bed, Brandon sighed and punched the pillow right on his face.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian and Ellie''s apartment.


    "Are you sure it''s okay to take them too?"


    "Of course honey, aunt Rosy ordered me to bring them." Without waiting for her reply, Sebastian explained further, "When I told her that we have adopted these two naughty ones, she asked me to bring them too."


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie inquired, "Wait, since you told aunt Rose about them that means you told them about us as well."


    "Of course I did and she is super excited to meet you. She also asked me about your favorite dish and I told her everything that you like," Sebastian answered.


    "Ah then that ''I''ll go only if you go'' was a trick?" When he nodded his head, she frowned and placed her hands on her hip, "What would you do if I didn''t agree to go with you?"


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he smiled, "I knew that you would go with me no matter what."


    "And who are you so sure?"


    "I know you very well honey, more than you know yourself," he answered.


    Placing her hand on his chest, she slowly pushed him away, "Sly."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 203 - Conservative

    "How is that being sly?" Sebastian chuckled.


    Rolling her eyes at him, she answered, "You have become very sly these days. Now stop with your tricks and help the kids get ready, I''ll go get ready too."


    "As you say honey, you are the boss," he chuckled before giving Bojo some belly rubbing.


    ....


    Brandon''s office.


    "Do you want something else madam?" Brandon''s assistant politely inquired.


    Charlotte smiled and shook her head, "No thanks but I may need another cup of coffee if I am done with this one before your boss comes back."


    "Sure, just let me know whatever you want," she smiled.


    Taking a sip from the coffee, Charlotte asked, "What is your name?"


    "Jasmine."


    "So Jasmine, I know Brandon has instructed you to look after me but you really don''t have to, I know where your desk is and if I did anything, I''ll look for you."


    Hesitating for a while, Jasmine answered, "It''s my first month here and it was kinda difficult to get this job so I don''t want anything to go wrong before of a silly mistake so please, let me do my job."


    Patting her shoulder, Charlotte smiled, "Don''t worry about that, no one is going to fire you just because you did not take proper care of me."


    "But¡ª"


    "It''s alright, just go and do your thing. I''ll read this magazine and wait for your boss to finish the meeting," she added.


    "Hmm are you sure?" When she nodded her head, Jasmine continued, "If you need anything, feel free to call me out."


    "Alright, don''t worry about me and do your thing." After Jasmine left, Charlotte sighed and resumed reading the fashion magazine again.


    ¡­


    Outside.


    "Hey Jasmine, is my grandson still in the office?" Markus inquired.


    "Well hello big boss, boss is in a meeting right now but boss''s girlfriend is in the office," Jasmine smiled.


    Raising his brows, he curiously inquired, "Girlfriend?"


    "Uh huh, have you not met Ms.Charlotte yet?"


    Widening his eyes in shock, Markus beamed, "What? Charlotte is in there? When she nodded her head, he beamed, "She has been coming here lately?"


    "Yes big boss, it has been quite some time since she has been coming here and accompanying boss."


    Thinking for quite some time, he inquired, "Tell me one thing Jasmine, have you noticed any changes in your boss''s activity lately?"


    "Apart from the fact that it''s my first month here, I can still tell you a few things according to what the last assistant told me. There have been no changes in the official side, normal meetings and other official stuff but there has been a major change in his character and the things he used to do." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Just for the record and according to what the previous assistant told me, the boss has been a good boy for more than three months now."


    "Hmm that means whatever he said wasn''t a lie or bluff, that bastard is really settling down now," Markus muttered before walking towards Brandon''s office.


    ¡­.


    Inside.


    "And you must be Charlotte."


    Startled by the sudden call, Charlotte gasped, "Oh God." Placing her hand on the chest, she breathed a sigh of relief, "I thought it was a ghost or something."


    "Ahh I am sorry, did I scare you young lady?" Sitting beside her, Markus added, "I didn''t mean to but¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she exclaimed, "Don''t worry about that, I think I was too engrossed in this magazine."


    "What is it?" he curiously asked before leaning towards her.


    Showing him the shimmery dress, she explained, "This is a limited edition dress, it''s so beautiful but too bad I won''t buy them."


    "Why not? I mean, they are quite beautiful and I am sure you will look stunning in them," he frowned.


    Caressing the picture, Charlotte sighed, "I know right? But I promised myself not to wear these kinds of dresses anymore. I mean they are more like parties and clubbing wears you know and I have stopped doing both."


    "And why is that?"


    "I just got into a relationship with this wonderful man so I am avoiding those unnecessary things and my boyfriend told me that he has a grandpa." Shrugging her shoulders, she added, "Now I don''t know how his grandpa is, what if he is those conservative types who do not like women who wear super short and shiny and party hard? I just don''t wanna take chances and wreck everything because of these things."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Markus inquired, "And what makes you think that he is someone who is conservative? What if he is cool and okay with everything?"


    "Maybe but I still don''t wanna take chances. I am even planning to make changes in my wardrobe, I''ll make sure that I discard my single woman kind of dresses and replace them with ''I am a girlfriend now'' kind of dresses," she answered.


    Crossing his legs, he smiled, "That is a very nice idea."


    "And he is taking me to meet his grandpa somewhere next week so to impress him, I am planning to take a gift for him." Flipping to a particular page, she added, "I just love these watches but I am really not sure which one to get."


    "Well, I think¡ª"


    "I am so sorry babe, it look a bit longer than I had expected," Brandon explained while walking towards her.


    Looking at him, Charlotte smiled, "It''s alright honey, I was just talking to¡ª" Turning towards Markus, she frowned, "I don''t know who you are."


    "Grandpa, what are you doing here?" Bradon inquired.


    Widening her eyes in shock, Charlotte stuttered, "G-Grandpa? Your Grandpa?"


    "I just wanted to meet you so I dropped by for some time," Markus answered.


    Raising his brows, Brandon stated, "So the two of you already met, that is great."


    "Yeah we did meet and had a really nice conversation, right Charlotte?" Markus chuckled.


    Giving him a weak smile, she lowered her head and slapped her forehead for being such an idiot.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 204 - No limit

    She really needed to change her habit of talking to strangers like she had known them for years. Throwing her hand in her mouth, she gasped and cursed herself harder. She was trying to impress Brandon''s grandfather but on the other hand she had just called him conservative and what not, how could her luck be so bad?


    "Really? That is nice, I wanted you both to meet as soon as possible and¡ª"


    "Sorry to interrupt you boss but there is something really very important that the executive team wants to discuss with you," Jasmine informed.


    Brandon sighed and nodded his head. "I''ll be there in a second." Placing his hand on Charlotte''s back, he added, "I''ll be back in a minute, okay? We can go for dinner after I am done."


    When Charlotte smiled and nodded her head, he quickly walked out along with Jasmine.


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her hair, Charlotte hesitantly said, "I didn''t know that you were Brandon''s grandpa, I am really very sorry for¡ª"


    Sorry for calling me conservative and not modern minded?" Markus inquired.


    Pursing her lips, she sighed, "I really didn''t mean anything that I said¡ªI mean, I did think that it might be possible but I wasn''t sure either."


    "So you just assumed that I am like that?" When she nodded her head, he chuckled, "And what will you do if I am really like that? Discard all your single woman dresses to ''I am a girlfriend now'' dresses?"


    Pinching the bridge of her nose, she exclaimed, "That was lame but apart from the conservative thing, I meant each and every word."


    "Alright, I am done." Rubbing his palms together, he sighed, "Let''s go for dinner, you are joining us right grandpa?"


    "Oh no, I have so many things to do so I''ll take my leave. Your kids should have fun and don''t forget to bring Charlotte for dinner next week." Pointing towards the magazine, Markus patted Charlotte''s hand and smiled, "I like the first one."


    When she smiled, he patted her head and walked out of the office.


    "What first one? What is he talking about?" Brandon curiously inquired.


    Vigorously shaking her head, she chuckled, "Nothing."


    Glancing at his watch, he sighed, "It''s so late already, no wonder I am feeling so hungry." Without waiting for her reply, he grabbed her bag and wrapped his arms around her shoulder. "Let''s go and have something."


    ...


    Ellie and Sebastian''s place.


    Brushing Bojo and Boji''s hair simultaneously, Sebastian instructed, "Now I want both of you to be in your best behavior, I don''t wanna hear any complaints from anyone, is that clear?" When they wagged their tails, he smiled, "Good boy and girl."


    "What are you doing?" Ellie chuckled.


    "Nothing honey, I was just???" he stopped midway when he turned around and saw her.


    Looking for something inside her bag, she inquired, "You were just what?"


    Without saying anything, he helplessly shook his head while walking towards her. Wrapping his arms around her waist, he informed, "Lets not go anywhere."


    Placing her hand on his chest, she chuckled, "Why? What will we do then?"


    "I don''t know, maybe cuddle all night but¡ª" Scrunching his brows, he added, "I also want to flaunt my beautiful girlfriend."


    Thinking for quite some time, he added, "You know what, we should go quickly and come back super fast and do our thing."


    "What thing?"


    "You know what we usually do, cuddling, kissing and hugging." Shrugging his shoulders, he continued, "That is like our limit."


    Drawing circles around his shirt button, she bit her lower lips, "I never said there was a limit."


    Tightening his grip around her waist, he gulped in nervousness, "So there is no limit at all?"


    "I don''t remember setting one, do you?" When he shook his head, she smiled, "So you see, there is no limit."


    Giving her a peck on his cheeks, she instructed, "Go get changed, we have to leave soon."


    Kissing her bare neck, he sighed, "No matter how hard I try, I won''t be able to outshine my beautiful girlfriend."


    "Do you really like this dress?"


    "Of course honey, you look gorgeous," he answered.


    Looking at the dress, she pouted her lips, "I wanted to wear something else but ended up choosing this one."


    She was wearing a off-white blue printed woven wrap dress which had a V-neck, short sleeves and high low hem with a tie up detail in the front. She had paired it with a peach colour slimmer heel pump shoe and a light brown sling bag. Her shoulder length hair was left open and the lovely pendant on her neck added to the whole beauty.


    Kissing her forehead, he smiled, "You look amazing so don''t worry about it, now if you allow me, I need to go and wear something good which matches your fantastic dress."


    Tapping the tip of his nose, she chuckled, "I have already taken out your clothes, it''s on the bed."


    "Perks of having a girlfriend, I don''t have to waste my time selecting outfits anymore," he smiled before giving her a peck on her lips and walking towards his room.


    ....


    Calvin''s apartment.


    "Why are you doing this to me Ava? Why?"


    Rolling her eyes at her over dramatic girlfriend, Ava snapped, "Are you getting dressed or do you want me to force you inside your pants?"


    Shrugging his shoulders, he chuckled, "Well, I already know how it feels when you help me take them off, I also wanna know how it feels when you help me put them on."


    After applying her lipstick, she frowned, "Are you trying to make me mad? Do you want me to kick you out of the room." When he shook his head, she continued, ??Good so get your ass working and get dressed, we are already very late."


    "Fine but I still don''t understand why you are taking me, I am not even invited." Wearing his pants, he frowned, "Feels so weird going there uninvited, what will they think of me?"


    ¡­.

 Chapter 205 - Dizzy and anxious

    "They will think nothing of you and it''s not like you are going there for the first time Cal, you have been there several times." Walking towards the wardrobe, she took out a matching t-shirt for him. "They are not going to eat you up honey so relax."


    Taking the t-shirt from her hand, he sighed, "But still, Noah and Mel know about us now, even Ellie knows, don''t you think that it''s very weird now? I mean, it feels like I am going to meet my in-laws, and I feel really dizzy and anxious." Though he had visited and even stayed over Noah''s parents place for an uncountable number of times, it felt really weird today. Maybe he was feeling that way because he was dating Ava and if things ran smooth without him f.u.c.k.i.n.g it up, they would be his official in-laws.


    "It''s just aunt Rosy and uncle Sam." Fixing his collar, she chuckled, "You should save all the dizziness and anxiousness for later."


    "Why late?" he frowned.


    "When you meet my parents, trust me honey it''s not gonna be tough," she answered before patting his shoulder.


    Slumping on the bed, he sighed, "Your mother hates me."


    "She hates a lot of people, what is so new about that? And there are many people who hate her." Pulling him up, she grunted, "Now get your ass up, we need to leave."


    "Can I just stay at home?" When Ava glared at him, he clutched his stomach and groaned, "My stomach hurts."


    Placing her hand on her stomach, she rolled her eyes, "What are you? A kindergarten student? Stop with this nonsense and wear your shoes."


    Left with no other choice, Calvin sighed and walked out of the room.


    "And just to let you know so that you feel a little bit relieved, Ellie is probably feeling exactly like you are but it''s more difficult for her because she is actually meeting them for the first time," Ava informed.


    ¡­..


    Noah''s parent''s place.


    "Samuel, did you take out the pie from the oven?" Rosy inquired.


    "Honey, you told me to turn it off, not take something out." When she glared at her, Samuel shrugged his shoulder, "What? That is what I was asked to do."


    "The microwave has a timer so why would I ask you to turn it off? I wanted you to take the pie out of the oven."


    Scrunching his brows, he complained, "This is the fifth time you have scolded me today Rosy, why are you doing this to me? Don''t you love me anymore?"


    Throwing the table cloth at him, she instructed, "Clean the table, kids will be any minute."


    Grumpily making his way towards the dining table, he starts whining, "First you ask all the helpers to leave early and now you are making me do all the work, how is that anywhere near being fair? Are the kids everything to you now? It''s not like they are visiting us for the first time."


    Placing her hand on his shoulder, she explained, "Did you forget? Sebastian is bringing his girlfriend home today, Sebastian honey. Our Seb has a girlfriend now, this is huge."


    The excitement in her voice and sparkle in her eyes did not go unnoticed by Samuel. Rosy had always treated and loved Sebastian and Ava as her own, in fact, there were times when she tried to talk to Rebecca but nothing worked because she would refuse to listen to her. Left with no other choice, Rosy gave up and started looking for ways to invite the two kids to her place instead. Once they were under her care, she used to cook their favourite meals and let them play as much as they wanted.


    Kissing her forehead, Samuel smiled, "And he also has a dog¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she chuckled, "Two dogs."


    "Hmm but I thought he was scared of dogs," he frowned.


    Rosy chuckled and nodded her head, "Yes he was but love changes everything, now he isn''t."


    Glancing at the watch, she widened her eyes in shock, "It''s almost time, quickly finish your work, I''ll go check the food."


    ¡­.


    Inside Sebastian''s car.


    "So your parents'' place is also nearby?"


    Sebastian nodded his head and answered, "It''s in the same compound." Without waiting for her reply, he further explained, "After uncle Samuel married, my grandfather asked both of them to move out and settle down on their own. Though they were reluctant, they had no other choice so they moved out of the main mansion and settled down here."


    "Why did your grandfather do that? I mean separate the family?" Ellie curiously inquired.


    "I don''t exactly know but I think he wanted to avoid the necessary fights and misunderstandings that would happen if they all stayed together. Grandpa was a peace lover and he didn''t like unnecessary trouble." Pausing for a while, he added, "My father and uncle Samuel have really different mindset, though they are siblings, they don''t have anything in common. I heard that this also created a problem when they were working together in the company but uncle Samuel always compromised so things ran pretty smoothly."


    "Did you and Noah ever face such a problem?"


    "Not really, I mean there were times when he had different opinions but we talked it out and always came up with a way which would satisfy both of us," he answered.


    "You and Noah make a really wonderful team," she smiled.


    Placing his hand on hers, he stated in a very assuring tone, "Don''t worry about anything else, they are going to love you and you are going to love them as well. They are really warm and very easy going people, you are gonna have a great them."


    When Bojo woofed, Sebastian chuckled, "Yes, you both are gonna have a great time too."


    "And what if they don''t like me?"


    "Why wouldn''t they? What is there not to like about you? Trust me honey, if they don''t like you then it''s their problem," he stated.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 206 - Such a baby

    Noah''s parents'' place.


    "Mom," Melissa exclaimed before running inside the mansion leaving Noah all by himself.


    "Ah there you are, I missed you so much Mel," Rosy beamed before giving her a hug.


    "I missed you too and sorry for not visiting earlier but it''s all Noah''s fault, in fact, he didn''t even want to come today," Melissa complained.


    Scrunching his brows, Noah snapped, "Hey, that is a lie."


    "Oh shut up Noah, you are the one who is lying," Rosy chided him before walking inside along with Melissa.


    Patting his son''s shoulder, Samuel sighed, "Its alright son, we get bullied all the time when they meet but you know who is going to be the real star of this place tonight?" Without waiting for Noah''s reply, he added, "Sebastian and his girlfriend."


    "That is true and I have a feeling that mom is going to love Ellie," Noah smiled.


    "Ellie, what a sweet name."


    ¡­.


    Inside the kitchen.


    "So I heard that she is your best friend," Rosy inquired.


    Sitting on the counter, eating her favorite yogurt, Melissa asked, "Who? Ellie?" When Rosy nodded her head, she answered, "Uh huh, we are childhood friends."


    "How did she and Seb meet?"


    "Oh God mom you won''t believe this but it''s just like you and dad, Noah and me¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Rosy gasped in excitement, "You mean she is Seb''s assistant?" When Melissa nodded her head, she turned down the stove and dragged two stools towards them.


    "Tell me everything," she instructed to which Melissa happily complied.


    ¡­..


    Living room.


    "And how is work doing?"


    "As usual dad, it''s fab," Noah answered while browsing through his phone.


    Smacking his son''s head, Samuel scoffed, "You are such a boring person to talk with, you should learn something from Sebastian."


    Rubbing his head, Noah chuckled, "Right, you both would be talking about what is happening in Antarctica right now."


    "Seb is so fun to talk and he is so knowledgeable, there is nothing that he doesn''t have an idea about and you¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Noah sighed, "Look dad, Seb will be here any minute so you can talk to him as much as you want. The topics you both talk in makes me feel so dizzy and exhausted."


    "Why dont you just admit that it makes you feel dumb?" When he did not say anything, Samuel frowned, "This is why you are supposed to read Noah Stewart."


    "I read enough in college and highschool, I don''t wanna read anymore,"Noah frowned.


    "What are you both discussing again?" Sebastian chuckled before entering the mansion along with Ellie and their two furry babies.


    "Honey, Seb is here," Samuel informed his wife before walking towards them. "Your aunt has been waiting for you for a really long time."


    Giving him a hug, Sebastian answered, "We got stuck in traffic."


    "Hey you got them as well." Squatting on the floor, Noah caressed Bojo''s head. "You guys look so cute, yes you do."


    Looking at Ellie, Samuel smiled, "And you must be Ellie."


    "It''s lovely meeting you¡ª" She stopped midway contemplating how she should address him.


    Patting her head, Samuel stated, "I am Sebastian''s uncle so that makes me your uncle too."


    "El," Melissa called her out before rushing towards her while Rosy followed her behind.


    Giving her a hug, she whispered, "You look stunning girl."


    After giving his aunt a hug, Sebastian placed his hand behind Ellie''s back, "She is the one I was talking about over the phone."


    "Ah no wonder you sounded like a lovestruck fool." Placing her hand on her chest, Rosy sighed, "She is so beautiful and you both look so cute together, right honey?"


    "Of course, I was about to say it," Samuel added.


    Just then Ava and Calvin arrived.


    "I guess I am late again," Ava chuckled.


    "Nothing new in that, you are always late," Sebastian commented before pulling her hair.


    Wincing in pain, Ava smacked his arm, "Stop it."


    Scrunching his brows, Noah snapped, "Yes Sebastian, how can pull Ava''s hair like that." Pausing for a while, he pulled her hair harder and chuckled, "Pull harder."


    Groaning in frustration, Ava threw her bag on the couch. "You two are so dead."


    Pulling her hair again, Sebastian teased, "You gotta catch us first."


    "Short legs," Noah added.


    When the three of them started chasing each other, Rosy sighed, "Will you three stop acting like small kids."


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, Samuel smiled, "Let them have fun for a while."


    Grabbing Ellie''s hand, Rosy explained, "Don''t mind them dear, they used to do this all the time when they were young." Without waiting for her reply, she squatted down and started petting the two furry babies who were still trying to figure out where they were. "They are so cute, what are their names?"


    "The one with the blue collar is Bojo and the other one is Boji," Ellie answered.


    "They are so adorable, who decided to adopt them?" she inquired.


    Caressing Boji''s head, Ellie explained, "We had rescued Boji a few months ago and one day, Seb just brought her home to surprise me so ended up adopting her. A few months ago, he brought Bojo home because he thought Boji was feeling all lonely."


    "Hmm, Seb is really attentive towards you."


    Looking at Sebastian who was still teasing Ava, she smiled, "Yes he is."


    "I can see that he has changed for good." Without waiting for her reply. Rosy smiled, "I have never seen him so happy and cheerful, it feels so nice to him this way."


    "Uncle Sam, they are calling me fat," Ava complained before grumpily rushing towards him.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian chuckled, "Such a baby."


    "I know right? She is still the same," Noah sighed.


    "Alright kids stop fighting, let''s have dinner now," Rosy stated.


    "Yeah I am¡ª" Melissa stopped midway when she saw Calvin standing at the door. "Cal, what are you doing at the door? Come on in."


    "Ah Calvin is here too, why are you standing at the door? Join us," Uncle Samuel added.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 207 - Aware

    Giving them an awkward weak smile, Calvin entered the mansion. "Hello everyone."


    Before anyone could say anything, Ava quickly explained, "Charlotte isn''t home and I was coming here so I brought him here too."


    "You don''t have to explain Ava, Calvin is one of us and he is free to come here anytime he wants," uncle Sam stated.


    Without wasting any time, Calvin gave Rosy a bag. "I bought your favourite chocolates."


    "That is so sweet of you Cal but you didn''t have to," Rosy smiled.


    "When did you start being so formal and getting gifts?" Sebastian chuckled.


    Wrapping his arms around Calvin''s shoulder, Noah smiled, "Exactly, you are one of us after all, right Ava?"


    Giving him a weak smile, Ava nodded her head. Taking a mental note of getting back to Noah for acting like a jerk, she rubbed her stomach and groaned, "I am literally starving and I cannot wait to taste all the tasty food.??


    Smacking her head, Sebastian sighed, "Learn to cook."


    Crossing her hand in the front, Ava grunted, "That is too boring, I would rather order and enjoy the delicious food."


    "Cooking is not that hard, you should try learning it," Ellie added.


    Placing her hand on Rosy''s arm, Melissa stated, "Mom, Ellie is a great cook."


    "That is true, you have to try the sandwiches she makes." Groaning in satisfaction, Noah continued, "They are so good and delicious."


    "Sebastian is a fan of them, he doesn''t let anyone else touch it," Ava chuckled.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian snapped, "Why should I share it with anyone? Ellie made them so they are mine."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "He is totally obsessed with them, in fact, he can eat them for breakfast, lunch and dinner."


    "Now I cannot wait to taste them," uncle Sam stated.


    "You are gonna love it dad and not just sandwiches, everything that El makes is delicious," Melissa added.


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, Ellie smiled, "I-It''s not that great, I just use my mothers and grandmother''s recipes."


    Placing her hand on Ellie''s, Rosy smiled, "You have to cook for us someday, I cannot wait to taste them."


    "Well, at least our Seb won''t starve if someday all restaurants close down unlike Ava''s husband," Samuel chuckled.


    Puffing her cheeks, Ava snapped, "I will marry someone who knows how to cook."


    "I see, that is a very smart move." Pausing for a while, Noah tightening his grip around Calvin''s neck. "So Cal, do you know how to cook?"


    Awkwardly his throat, Calvin answered, "I know a little."


    "Hmm so it turns out that Calvin''s wife is not going to starve either," he added.


    Pursing her lips, Ellie gave Melissa a weird look.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Melissa gave Noah a threatening glare before walking away along with Rosy to set the table.


    "I will go and help them too," Ellie informed Sebastian and was about to walk away when he grabbed her hand.


    Running her fingers through her hair, Sebastian said, "I will take you for a house tour later."


    "This house? Mel told me that she will take me for one later," she answered.


    "Not this house, our house." Without waiting for her reply, he continued, "It''s just next door."


    "Will that be okay?"


    "Why do you think that it''s not okay?" When she did not say anything, he sighed, "Don''t think about anything else, I''ll take you there after dinner."


    Giving him a smile, she nodded her head, "Okay."


    Kissing her forehead, he added, "I''ll be right here, just call me if you need anything."


    After Ellie left, he made his way towards the couch where Samuel, Noah and Calvin. As soon as Sebastian sat down, Calvin excused himself and dragged Noah with him.


    "So how is life son?" Samuel inquired.


    Sebastian smiled and answered, "It''s great, in fact, much better than before."


    "Hmm I can see that, your face looks so bright and cheerful now." Patting his shoulder, Samuel smiled, "We are really happy for you and I think Rosy is a bit extra happy."


    "You should have heard her excited voice when I told her about Ellie over the phone yesterday, she even asked me to swear," he chuckled.


    "I know, I was right there when she was talking to you," Samuel added.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian chuckled, "Aunt has always been like that, she is happy when we are."


    "Hmm now let''s talk about something that I wanted to discuss with you." Without waiting for his reply, Samuel continued, "I heard that Ellie is an employee in the company?"


    Sebastian nodded his head and answered, "She is my assistant."


    Smiling at him, Samuel chuckled, "Your aunt was my assistant too, she was so beautiful and hot that I immediately fell for her." Keeping quiet for quite some time, he added, "Things were quite smooth when we started dating but we did face many ups and downs when we revealed our relationship to everyone. There were many people who frowned upon our relationship and Rosy, you know how mean people can be and trust me, it was quite hurtful and I felt really very angry. I used to snap at people and call them out for talking shit about our relationship but she always stopped me from doing it. She thought that if we don''t react to them or tell them anything, they will get tired and stop saying anything. Though I didn''t want to just keep quiet and just hear their shit, Rosy forced me to and guess what, it worked. Slowly everyone stopped talking about us and everything became normal."


    Pausing for a while, he sighed, "Though the people from our so-called high society stopped talking, there were two people who didn''t, my brother and his wife." Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "Well, to be precise it was Rebecca who always kept pressing on the matter than Arthur. It was so tough to convince them¡ª"


    "So did you manage to convince them?" Sebastian inquired.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Samuel chuckled, "I never managed to convince them. I mean, I did try a couple of times but no matter what I said, it was so hard to change their point of view so I just gave up. This is one of the reasons why your grandpa asked us to move out of the main mansion and live on our own."


    Placing his hand on Sebastian''s shoulder, he explained, "I am not telling you this to make you realize that your parents will never accept your relationship with Ellie or anything like that. I am telling you this to make you understand that you need to be ready to face everything when the correct time comes. It''s not that hard, you know, all you have to do is support Ellie and fight for your love and relationship until you achieve the main goal."


    Patting his shoulder, he continued, "You are a very smart man Sebastian so I am going to be very blunt with you. Your parents are a bit different from Rosy or me and you know that, right?" When Sebastian nodded his head, he added, "They will definitely make things difficult for you just like they did for me but I don''t want you to give in to their tricks and take a wrong step which you regret for your entire life. Just keep your mind clear and focus on a single goal which is to stand up for your better half no matter what happens."


    Nodding his head, Sebastian answered, "I am very well aware of the entire situation and what kinds of problems Ellie and I might have to face, but I am ready to face everything along with her because Ellie is worth it. I know things are not gonna be so smooth and easy, especially after mom and dad return back but I am very confident that we will deal with everything together."


    Pausing for a while, he continued, "I don''t know what will happen in the future and what kind of situations we might have to face but I do know that there is no more I will let Ellie go anywhere and no matter what happens, I will never leave her hand."


    Patting his arm, Samuel smiled, "Well, this is exactly what I want you to do because if you dont stand for your relationship then who will, right?"


    "I know right? I need to stand for my Ellie and our two furry babies," Sebastian smiled.


    "So, how is the new relationship life going? Noah was telling me that you both are planning to buy a new place?" Samuel inquired.


    Widening his eyes in shock, Sebastian quickly looked around before whispering, "Don''t say that loud uncle, it''s a surprise."


    Placing his finger on his lips, he chuckled, "Alright, I didn''t know that."


    After making sure that Ellie wasn''t around, Sebastian explained, "Owen has taken a new place and there happens to be new plots in that compound, Noah and I are looking into it."


    ¡­...

 Chapter 208 - Vacation

    While Sebastian and Samuel were having their conversation, Calvin and Noah were hanging their own private talk.


    After making sure Sebastian was busy and not looking at them, Calvin frowned, "Dude, what the hell are you trying to do?"


    "Nothing, what did I do?" Noah gave him a shrug and was about to watch out when Calvin grabbed his arm.


    "You promised that you won''t tell but¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Noah snapped, "I promised you both not to tell Seb about it and I didn''t."


    "But¡ª"


    "But what? I am helping the two of you and here you are accusing me? Do you have any idea how hard it is to keep this away from Seb? And just to let you know, it is one hundred times difficult for Ellie. I don''t understand what you guys are trying to do? I mean what good will hiding your relationship from Seb bring?" Noah snapped.


    "I don''t know, we are just waiting for the right time."


    Knocking his forehead, Noah scoffed, "That right time is never going to come."


    "Hey, don''t say that. It''s not like I am enjoying hiding this from Seb, okay? He is my friend too and it''s not cool hiding it from him," Cavin retorted.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Noah sighed and walked away without saying anything.


    ¡­..


    Kitchen.


    "El, I already told mom everything about you and Seb," Melissa chuckled.


    "Yeah she did and I cannot believe it, I mean I didn''t know our Seb was that romantic," Rosy chuckled.


    Not knowing what to say when Ellie hesitated for a while, Melisa wrapped her arms around her shoulder and chuckled, "You don''t have to feel so shy, you can talk about anything with mom."


    "Mel is right, I know I am a bit old to be your friend but you can treat me as one if you want to," Rosy chuckled.


    "Old? What are you talking about mom? You look so young," Melissa stated.


    Pinching her nose, Rosy sighed, "This girls keep flattering me."


    "I am just stating the fact mom."


    Looking at Rosy and Melissa, Ellie smiled, it was so evident that they share a very close relationship. Seeing them like this, she couldn''t help but wonder if someday she would share such a kind of relationship with Sebastian''s mother. Well, she could only dream about it for now.


    "Alright, why don''t you girls go outside and ask everyone to sit on the dining table, the food is ready," Rosy informed.


    "El, you help mom and I''ll go call everyone."


    After Melissa left, Rosy smiled at Ellie. "I can see that you and Seb are getting along quite well."


    "Yeah, he is very sweet and caring," she answered.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Rosy chuckled, "It''s so shocking seeing him like this." Without waiting for her reply, she continued, "You know there was a time when Sam and I were so worried about Sebastian, we knew that Ava and Noah would do okay because they already had a really jolly and open personality since they were young but Seb, he was very different. We always thought that it will be very difficult for him to open up and to be with someone but then now he has you and we are so happy for you both." Patting her head she smiled, "It feels so great seeing you both happy."


    "Seb also talks about you and uncle Sam a lot, he really cares about you both," Ellie added.


    Taking the chicken out of the microwave, Rosy chuckled, "That boy has always been like that, sweet and caring. Okay, we have all night to talk but first let''s fill our empty voids, okay? I am sure you kids might be starving."


    ¡­.


    Outside.


    Dinner table.


    Taking a bite of the scallops, Ava groaned, "This is awesome aunt, I missed you cooking so much."


    "If you miss it so much then you are supposed to visit me often," Rosy remarked.


    Licking her fingers, Ava grunted, "Pardon me for my bad table habits but this food is too delicious to be not eaten with my hands."


    "Aunt Rebecca would have killed you if she had seen this," Noah chuckled before licking his fingers.


    "She is never satisfied with anything that I do so why bother?" Ava scoffed.


    "Alright, now let''s not go that way." Pausing for a while Samuel inquired, "So why don''t you kids tell me about your vacation plans?"


    "What plans?"


    "Hmm honey, did you forget about our Hawaii plan?" Noah reminded Melissa.


    "Ahh the plan which we had to postpone," Melissa exclaimed.


    "Hawaii, that is a really beautiful place and we also have a beach house there so you kids will have no problem," Samuel explained.


    Looking at Sebastian, Calvin inquired, "Dude, don''t you have a beach house there as well?"


    Sebastian nodded his head and answered, "Yes but it''s still under construction."


    "Really? I thought it was already done." Without waiting for anyone''s reply, Ava continued, "Anyway, we gotta plan it out and go there soon. It''s been so many days since I took a really nice holiday."


    "You should stop talking about holidays Ava, you are joining the office from next month," Sebastian stated.


    Puffing her cheeks, she complained, "Not next month, after the vacation."


    "Weren''t you supposed to join last month?" Noah inquired.


    Before Ava could say anything, Sebastian answered, "That is true but she didn''t because no one was there to accompany Charlotte back then but things are different now, you have to start working and pay your own bills."


    "How can you both bully me this way? That is so mean and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Noah sighed, "We are just teaching you how to become more responsible."


    "Ava, your brother''s are right, I think it''s time for you to make use of the degree that you have and you will be working for your own company, it''s gonna be great." Looking at Sebastian and Noah, Samuel added, "But she can join after the vacation right? It''s her company too so shouldn''t she have a few privileges?"


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian sighed, "You spoil her way too much uncle Sam."


    "Why not? She is the only daughter in the family, she was born to be spoiled," Samuel stated.


    When Ava grinned at her brothers, Sebastian remarked, "You can''t escape this after we come back from the vacation."


    "Alright big bossy brother," Ava chuckled.


    Leaning towards Ellie, Ssbastian whispered, "You wanna go to Hawaii honey?"


    "Uh huh, I love beaches," she answered.


    "Okay then, we can go there."


    ¡­..


    After having dinner, Sebastian took Ellie to show her around while Noah and Melissa alone with Samuel and Calvin decided to take a walk in the yard along with Bojo and Boji.


    Passing her the plate, Rosy inquired, "So are you telling your aunt about it or not?"


    "About what?"


    "You can Calvin."


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, Ava let out a nervous chuckle, "W-What about us?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Rosy chuckled, "Remember how you and Calvin used to tease each other all the time and call out each other with names. You both used to fight over food too." Looking at Ava, she continued, "And now that same guy who used to eat your food is placing his share on your plate while you are doing the same."


    Placing the plate down, Ava helplessly shook her head, "Why are you so observant? It''s so difficult to hide anything from you."


    Knocking her forehead, Rosy chuckled, "Then why do you even try?"


    "We are dating for months now but Seb doesn''t know about it so you can''t tell him," Ava explained.


    "Ah this is great news, why are you hiding this from your brother?" Rosy inquired.


    "I don''t know, I just feel that she won''t take it well."


    "Well, there is a small chance of him overreacting but I am sure he will be just fine." Piling up the plates, Rosy chuckled, "I don''t know how Seb will react but I am very sure that Rebecca is going to have a heart attack."


    Groaning in frustration, Ava exclaimed, "Why aunt Rosy, why? Why do you have to talk about my mother? I just ate so much and her name is making me feel so bloated."


    "I heard they are coming back next month."


    "I know, Seb had a talk with mom last week and she told him that," Ava sighed.


    Patting her cheek, Rosy smiled, "Don''t make that face now, maybe Rebecca will understand you both and accept your choice willingly."


    "Yeah and the day that will happen will also be called the doomsday."


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s parent''s mansion.


    Standing outside the door, Sebastian kissed the back of her hand and smiled, "So this is where Ava and I grew up. Though it wasn''t a really warm childhood, it is still special."


    Tightening her grip around his hand, she hesitated for a while before saying, "Do you think it''s okay for me to go inside?"


    Tucking a lock of her behind her ear, he frowned, "Why not? You don''t want to?"


    ...

 Chapter 209 - Why are you doing this?

    "It''s not like that, I cannot wait to see the place you grew up in. But What if your mom doesn''t like it?" lowering her head, she added, "I don''t want to complicate things and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he cupped her face, "Nothing will happen, you trust me right?" When she nodded her head, he smiled, "That is all you have to do honey, trust me."


    Kissing the back of her hand, he guided her inside the mansion.


    ¡­.


    Inside.


    As soon as they entered the mansion, the helpers quickly approached them.


    "Sir, you are here," Mr Oster politely greeted them.


    Placing his hand on Ellie''s back, Sebastian explained, "He is Mr Oster, he has been working here before I was born and he is in charge of everything around here."


    Giving Ellie a respective bow, Oster inquired, "Will you be staying for the night sir? Shall I ask someone to open your room?"


    "You don''t have to, aunt Rosy invited us for dinner so I decided to show my lady around." Looking at Ellie, Sebastian smiled, "Let''s go."


    "Do let me know if you need anything sir."


    After Oster left, Ellie wrapped her hand around his arm and chuckled, "My lady, that was new."


    "I know right? Wanted to say this for a really long time but I was looking for a perfect moment," he chuckled.


    "Hmm, I like ''my lady'', you should say it often," she exclaimed before tightening her grip around his arm.


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, he whispered, "There are many things I wanna call you, just waiting for the right moment."


    Looking around, Ellie chuckled and pushed him away, "Stop being sly and show me around."


    Without saying anything, he guided her upstairs.


    ¡­.


    Inside Sebastian''s room.


    "So this is my room, it''s not anything special, just a normal nerdy room," he explained.


    Looking around, she exclaimed, "It''s beautiful." Walking around, she chuckled, "It''s almost double my room size, how can you call this ''not special''?"


    Hugging her from behind, he kissed her nape, "As long as you like it honey."


    Running her fingers through the books that were neatly arranged in the bookshelf, she inquired, "You read them all?"


    "Each and everyone," he replied.


    Taking out a random book, she examined the cover, "Wow this is as good as new."


    "I read this when I was in high school," he informed.


    Widening her eyes in shock, she snapped, "What? You are kidding me right?"


    "No I am not, what makes you think that I am?" he chuckled.


    Looking at the clean intact book cover, she frowned, "Were you not familiar with the concept of turning the book that you read into a disaster? I mean scribbling on random pages, writing on the book cover, tearing a few pages and then the bind wears off, the pages are just falling around like dry leaves in autumn."


    Scrunching his brows, he retorted, "Why would anyone do that? Books give us knowledge, we are supposed to keep them clean."


    Placing the book back, Ellie turned towards him and placed her hand on either side of his shoulder. "Normal students sweetheart, normal students do that." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "You can even sell them off for the same price."


    Thinking for quite some time, he stated, "Our kids need to keep their books the way I keep them, they won''t be allowed to scribble on them. Maybe we can gift them something if they keep their books neat and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "No restricting my kids for something as unnecessary as this."


    Left with no other choice, he sighed, "Alright, we will do as you say."


    "Your room is beautiful Seb," she remarked.


    Pulling her closer, he grinned, "The bed is super soft too."


    Slapping his cheek, she chuckled, "Show me the garden first and then maybe we can test how soft it is."


    "Why do you wanna see the garden? It''s just grass and trees everywhere, how boring," he frowned.


    Grabbing his hand, she dragged him out of the room. "Ava told me that I should see the garden because it''s beautiful."


    .....


    Garden.


    Looking down, Sebastian explained, "Look at the grass." Without waiting for her reply, he slowly lifted her cheeks up. "Trees, plants and fresh air. I told you it''s nothing so special."


    "Wait, why are you in a hurry? Let me look around," she stated. But before she could take a step, he scooped her into his arms.


    Squealing in surprise, she smacked his chest, "What is wrong with you? You scared me."


    Walking forward, he answered, "I''ll give you a tour like this because if you walk on your own, you will take your own sweet time."


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she chuckled, "Sly Sebastian is very bad and you should put me down before someone sees us."


    "And what makes you think that I care? Let them see and be jealous, I wanna flaunt my love and beautiful girlfriend," he proudly exclaimed.


    Looking at the beautiful flowers, she smiled, "These are so beautiful, you know back in Seattle, dad and I were in charge of the garden. We used to spend our weekend taking care of it and mom used to make snacks for us."


    "You miss them, right?"


    Fidgeting with his collar, she nodded her head, "I do and this is why I was planning to visit them next week¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he scoffed, "Hold on young lady, what now?"


    "Young lady? Who are you, my dad?" she chuckled.


    "I don''t know, this just felt like a ''Young lady'' kind of a moment but that is not the whole point, why are you doing this to me Ellie? Why?" Without waiting for his reply, he whined, "First you tell me that there is no limit in our relationship and then now you want to go to Seattle? It''s like giving a kid candy and then taking it away, you are taking away the kid''s happiness which is not good."


    ¡­...

 Chapter 210 - Sweet and pleasurous

    "It''s just for the weekend and I''ll be back before you know it." Though Ellie was very reluctant to leave him behind and fly back home, she had no other choice. She hadn''t seen her parents for quite some time now and she was missing them.


    Vigorously shaking his head, he frowned, "No, not happening."


    "Seb¡ª"


    Interrupting her, Sebastian frowned, "As your boyfriend, I forbid you to leave me alone all cold and lonely all day. Come on El, it''s almost winter and I need my cuddles at night." Without giving her any chance to say anything, he snapped again, "And what about my food, my sandwiches? Do you want me to starve? Who will tell me what I need to wear for work and other occasions? We cannot forget about Bojo and Boji, what will happen to them?"


    Placing her hand on his chest, she sighed, "Seb, listen to me first¡ª"


    "Okay, you are the boss at home but don''t forget that I am still the boss at work? I will not approve your leave, there are tons of things to do at work everyday so¡ª" He stopped midway when she pressed her lips on his.


    He winced in pain when she bit his lower lips very hard. "Ouch babe, that hurt."


    Pulling away, she frowned, "That is your punishment for being mean."


    "I am being mean? You are the one who wants me to leave alone and all of a sudden I am mean?" he retorted.


    Running her finger through his hair, she explained, "I''ll fly there on Friday evening and be back on Sunday or Monday."


    Puffing his cheeks, he adjusted her in his arms, he stormed out of the garden being all grumpy, "That is so not fair, I feel so neglected."


    ...


    Samuel and Rosy''s place.


    Giving Rosy a hug, Ellie smiled, "Thanks for the dinner aunt Rosy, it was really very delicious."


    Patting her back, Rosy smiled, "Your welcome dear, thanks for coming and bringing these two cuties."


    Just then, Sebastian grumpily came forward, took the lease from Samuel''s hand and guided the two furry babies towards the car.


    "Now what happened to my brother?" Ava chuckled.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "I am planning to go home next weekend for a couple days, he is being all grumpy about that."


    "Pfft what a baby," Ava mocked before hooking her arms around Ellie''s neck. "You turned my mature big bro into a man baby."


    "Even I am planning to go home soon, we should fly back together," Melissa suggested.


    "That is an awesome plan honey, I''ll start packing our clothes. When are we leaving?" Noah excitedly inquired.


    "Who is taking you?" Melissa rolled her eyes.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Noah sighed, "What are you talking about honey?" Tightening his grip around her, he added, "We are like glue and paper, remember? We are supposed to go everywhere together otherwise bad things will happen."


    Ignoring them, Rosy placed her arm on Ellie''s arm, "I am sure that Sebastian will understand, just talk to him properly. Well, I can''t really give you any tips because I have never seen him act so childish."


    Ellie chuckled and helplessly shook her head. "Well, I hope he will."


    ¡­.


    Inside Sebastian''s car.


    As soon as Ellie entered the car, Sebastian helped her with the seat belt before starting the car.


    Running her finger through the seat belt, she informed, "Aunt Rosy said that if we both are busy then we can just drop Bojo and Boji here and pick them up later."


    "Are you trying to say that after you leave us alone, I should leave them here?" Without waiting for her reply, he frowned, "There is no need for that, I can take care of our babies all by myself. We already made plans, we are going to have fun without you. I''ll take them to the beach and then eat some ice cream too, it''s gonna be our fun weekend."


    Pursing her lips, she suppressed her laugh and awkwardly cleared her throat, " That is great, you guys should have fun and chill. Don''t forget to send me pictures."


    Frowning deeper, he stopped talking and diverted his attention on the road.


    "Melissa wants to go home too so maybe I will fly with her and come back with her too." When he did not say anything, she poked his arm. "Seb, are you listening to me."


    Without looking at her or saying anything, he let out an affirmative sound.


    "I''ll be back before you even start missing me and¡ª"


    "I am already missing you even though you are sitting right beside me." Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "Fine, go if you want to."


    "Really?"


    "It''s not like I can stop you from meeting your parents," he replied.


    Wrapping her arms around his arm, she placed her head on his shoulder. "I''ll be back soon."


    "Hmmm."


    ¡­..


    Ellie and Sebastian''s apartment.


    As soon as Ellie unleashed Bojo and Boji, Sebastian grabbed her waist and pinned her against the wall.


    She gasped when her back touched the cold wall but before she could say anything, her lips were sealed with his.


    Grabbing his wrist, he pinned them against the wall above her head and deepened the kiss.


    She m.o.a.ned when he licked her lower lip before pushing it inside her mouth. When their wet tongues intertwined together, she felt shivers down her spine. The kiss was intense, rough yet sweet and pleasurous at the same time.


    When he let go of her hands and wrapped his arms around her waist again, she pressed her hand on his chest, she arched her neck to the other side when he pulled away and started trailing kisses down her neck.


    Clutching his shirt, she groaned in pleasure when he licked her skin before nibbling it. She could feel his hot breath against her neck and the sucking just made everything very intense and hot.


    His hands which rested on her waist, slowly went upwards and started caressing the side of her b.r.e.a.s.ts....


    ¡­.

 Chapter 211 - Squeezing

    [WARNING: ONLY SHAMELESS READERS ALLOWED]


    Her body turned stiff when he started caressing the side of her b.r.e.a.s.t. Before he could do anything else, she pressed her hand on his chest and slowly pushed him.


    Her push brought him back from the l.u.s.tful daze. Looking at her flushed face and slightly mist eye lashes, he realized what he was about to do.


    "I-I am so sorry El, I¡ª" Cursing himself for only thinking about his comfort, he was about to walk away when Ellie grabbed his arm.


    "Where are you doing?" Without waiting for his reply, she hesitated for a while and asked, "Can we go to our room and then continue¡ªI mean, do¡ª" Helplessly shaking her head in embarrassment, she sighed, "You know what I mean."


    "Oh so you pushed me away because you want us to go to our room?" he inquired.


    She nodded her head and explained, "Hmm actually, Boji and Bojo are staring at us and it''s very awkward to you know¡ª"


    Turning around, Sebastian chuckled when he realized that the two naughty babies were really staring at them, probably wondering what their parents were doing against the wall.


    Looking at her, he tapped the tip of her nose and smiled, "You do know that they don''t understand a thing, right?"


    "Hmm I know but it''s still awkward and just because they can''t say anything that doesn''t mean they don''t feel awkward," she answered.


    "Alright, let''s go upstairs."


    Bending down, she quickly took off her shoes and tossed it aside.


    "Why did you take them off now? Now you have to walk bare feet¡ª" Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "Why are you so careless honey?" without waiting for her reply, he scooped her into his arms.


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she answered, "They were hurting my leg for a long time."


    Walking upstairs, he inquired, "So you just stopped me because they were staring at us, right?"


    Burying her face on his neck, she nodded her head. Of course she wouldn''t have stopped him if she hadn''t noticed Boji and Bojo, why would she? Even she wanted them to take their relationship to the next important level.


    After getting her approval, he increased his pace and rushed inside towards their room without wasting any more time.


    ....


    Inside the room.


    As soon as they entered the room, he pinned her against the door and brushed his lips against her jawline. "You know what you are saying yes to, right?"


    Placing her hand on his cheek, she nodded her head, "I know Seb and I also know that you are the one for me. I trust you more than I trust myself, if you are not my right decision then I don''t know what right means."


    And that was enough for Sebastian to let unleash all the acc.u.mulated innermost desires he had harboured her for a really long time.


    Pressing his lips against hers, his hands wandered around her waist region for some time before travelling downstairs.


    She gasped when he hands cupped her butt cheeks but before he could make any other move, she chuckled and buried her face on his chest.


    "Now why are you laughing El? Don''t tell me you are ticklish there?" he inquired.


    Shaking her head, she answered, "No, it''s just something that Mel and Noah said. So when your hands were there I couldn''t help but think about it."


    Squeezing her butt cheeks, he chuckled, "Are you talking about the infamous butt massage?"


    Smacking his arm, she gasped, "How do you know about that?"


    "There is nothing that your man doesn''t know babe," he grinned before biting her lower lip.


    While his hands rested on her second pair of cheeks, she hastily grabbed the hem of his t-shirt and took it off.


    He groaned when the t-shirt got stuck in between. "There were two buttons, honey."


    Sticking her tongue out, she chuckled and quickly pulled it back. "Sorry, I did not see the buttons." Without wasting any more time, she quickly unbuttoned them and helped him take it off.


    When she placed her hand on his bare chest, his muscles tightened and a weird sensation started building inside his body which made everything even more intense. Deepening the kiss, he slowly moved his hands upwards.


    Caressing the side of her b.r.e.a.s.ts for some time, he placed his hand on her b.r.e.a.s.t.


    She gasped when he lightly squeezed them. His hands on her b.r.e.a.s.t felt so right and weird at the same time. Though she still had her clothes on, she could still feel the heat of his palm over her b.r.e.a.s.t.


    Pulling away, he rested his forehead on hers and closed his eyes for a couple of seconds. Both of them were breathing heavily and their heart was ramming against their chests. They wanted things to happen but they were very nervous about it.


    What if he does something wrong? What if she doesn''t like everything that happens? What if something traumatizing happens when they are at it? Too many what if''s was making him even more nervous.


    Ellie on the other hand was also in the same spot as Sebastian was. There were too many things going on in her head which was making her palms sweaty. But even though she was nervous, she didn''t want him to stop.


    Thinking that they were not ready yet, he was about to pull away but his hand was very reluctant to leave where it was resting.


    All his doubts disappeared in thin air when she initiated a kiss. The moment her soft lips touched his, he grabbed the hem of her dress and took it off before tossing it on the floor.


    He gulped a mouthful of his saliva when he saw her in the red bra and thongs. Her b.r.e.a.s.t looked so plump and voluptuous. Her curves in the right place.


    His gaze made her feel more shy and awkward than she already was. Covering her face with her hands, she hugged him tightly. "Don''t look at me like that."


    ¡­.


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:-


    Hey everyone, I had to take a short break because I wasn''t feeling well for the past few days. I think I burned myself out during the win-win event last month. It has been really stressful and I almost ended up in the hospital again like last time.


    But now I feel a lot better and you can expect regular updates for all my books (even One last time).


    I hope you all are okay too :)


    Lot''s of love,


    Sofia ?


    ¡­...

 Chapter 212 - Bigger

    [SEMI MATURE SCENE AHEAD: THIS IS A SUPPOSED TO BE A WARNING BUT I KNOW YOU PEOPLE WILL SHAMELESSLY READ IT¡­...BECAUSE WHY NOT? :p]


    Placing his hand on her waist, he kissed the top of her head, " You are beautiful honey."


    Her face flushed even more when she felt his hardness. She was scared, even more scared then she already was. She wanted things to happen but at the same time she didn''t want it to happen.


    She shoved the unnecessary and not so important thoughts to the back of her head when he cupped her b.r.e.a.s.t and squeezed it.


    Just then, he lifted her up and wrapped her legs around his crotch before capturing her lips. Walking towards the bed, he slowly placed her down and howered her body with his.


    Caressing her bare thighs, he started trailing kisses down her neck. She m.o.a.ned when he nibbled her skin before moving further downwards.


    Tightly clutching the sheets, she curled her toes and closed her eyes when planted soft kisses on her chest.


    Unhooking her bra, he slowly removed the strap exposing her b.r.e.a.s.t. But before he could get a proper look of it, she covered her chest and moved away.


    With her face flushed red and sweaty, she lowered her head and curled herself up in a corner of the bed.


    Quickly getting up, he ran his finger through his hair before rushing towards the wardrobe. Grabbing a random shirt from his section, he quickly gave it to her. "Here, you can wear this."


    Taking the shirt from his hand, Ellie quickly wore it and awkwardly sat there without saying anything. She had no idea how she was supposed to explain her inappropriate behaviour. Didn''t she want it to happen too? Then why did she stop it?


    Sensing her awkwardness, he sat on the edge of the bed and sighed, "You don''t have to feel awkward El, it''s all my fault. If I hadn''t started it or stopped right before something that would make you uncomfortable happened, everything would have been normal."


    Crawling towards him with the help of her knees, she hugged him from behind and shook her head, "No its isn''t your fault, I was the one who said there was no limit and I even asked you to bring me in the bedroom but¡ª" Stopping midway, she sighed, "I don''t know what happened, it''s not like I don''t want to but¡ª"


    Pulling her in his lap, he kissed her forehead. "You don''t have to explain anything, we don''t have to rush into everything. We have all the time we need so let''s wait until we both are fully ready, okay?"


    "You are not angry right?" she inquired.


    "Of course not honey, why would I be angry over something like this though I am still very angry and sad about you leaving me alone and going to Seattle," he answered.


    Placing her hand on his cheek, she smiled and gave him a peck on his lips, "I love you."


    "I love you too honey."


    "Are you hungry? Do you want me to make something for you? Sandwiches?" she inquired.


    "Hmm, let me just take a quick shower first and then we can discuss this," he answered before shifting her to the bed and getting up.


    Just then she grabbed his hand and pouted her lips, "Cuddles first?"


    When he hesitated for a while, she frowned and was about to complain when she saw the huge bulge on his pants. Lowering her head, she blushed and lowered her head before letting go off his hand.


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, he stated, "I''ll just shower." Without waiting for her reply, he quickly rushed inside the washroom.


    After he left, she buried her face on the pillow and groaned in frustration, she hated being the c.o.c.k blocker of her own boyfriend. Thinking for a while and after analyzing a couple of things, she took a deep breath before rushing towards the washroom.


    ¡­


    Inside the washroom.


    With both his hands pressed against the glass walls of the bathing area, Sebastian had his eyes squeezed shut. The cold water ran through his clenched muscles but he couldn''t help but feel himself grow bigger and bigger. His mind was covered with images of Ellie and no matter how hard he tried, he couldn''t stop thinking about it.


    This wasn''t the first time he was trying to calm himself down with a cold shower but it was getting harder everyday. As his feelings and love for her grew stronger and stronger each day, his body was also yearning for her. He didn''t want to do anything with her hundred percent consent but it was so hard to resist that he could barely hold himself back anymore. But he knew that he had to control himself and wait for the correct time. He slipped a little today and she looked so scared, he would have to make sure that it never happens again.


    As he was trying very hard to hold himself back, he heard a light knock at the glass door.


    Turning the shower off, he was about to say something when Ellie asked, "Seb, can I come in?"


    Widening his eyes in shock, he was about to ask her not to but the door opened and she stepped inside.


    At the sight of his erect member, she gulped in nervousness. The initial motive of gathering all her courage and stepping into the shower got completely wiped away along with the water droplets which were dripping down his body.


    Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath before turning around. "You should go honey." He then turned on the shower, the sudden unexpected sight of her made everything even worse.


    Just then, a pair of soft delicate arms wrapped around his waist. She then kissed his back and stated, "Let me help you."


    He closed his eyes and groaned when he felt her chest pressed against his back. The image of her half exposed b.r.e.a.s.t popped in his head and he automatically decided to give in....


    ....

 Chapter 213 - Pressure

    [WARNING: SEMI-MATURE SCENES AHEAD, I KNOW YOU GUYS WILL SHAMELESSLY READ IT :p]


    Turning towards her, he grabbed both her wrist and pinned it above her head before brushing his lips against her lips. "You shouldn''t have come inside Ellie, I don''t wanna hurt you." Letting go off her wrist, he placed his hand on her waist and buried his head on her neck. "You don''t have to be here if you don''t want to."


    Placing her hand on his cheek, she stated, "Who said I don''t wanna be here? I am here because I want to, no one forced me in." Pausing for a while, she sighed, "I admit that maybe I am not ready for it yet but that doesn''t mean I am not up for others¡ª" She stopped midway when she realized how embarrassing she sounded.


    Resting his forehead on hers when he chuckled, she sighed, "You know what I mean so stop laughing, it''s so embarrassing." First she literally stopped him in the middle of something intense and then after feeling guilty for being a c.o.c.k blocker of her own boyfriend, she rushed inside the washroom where he was taking a shower with the intention of helping him when she had no idea how she would do that. Though she knew what was to be done, she had no idea how to start the whole thing, in fact, it was the first time she was seeing a man''s p.e.n.i.s in reality let alone touching it.


    "What are you embarrassed for? It''s just you and me babe, we will see each other like this eventually," he answered.


    Without waiting for her reply, he tapped the tip of her nose and kissed her forehead, "It''s alright, you don''t have to."


    Drawing circles on his dripping wet chest, she stated, "Hmm I am not leaving without doing it¡ª" How could she chicken out for the second time? She didn''t want to look like a coward and scaredy cat.


    Pausing for a while, she continued, "You just need to guide me." She needed his guidance to make sure that she doesn''t f.u.c.ks it up. What if she squeezed it tightly or her grip wasn''t right?


    Lifting her chin up, he inquired, "Are you sure?" When she nodded her head, he pressed his lips on her and grabbed her hand. He then slowly directed it towards his member who was still twitching in anticipation.


    Pulling away, he groaned and buried his head on her neck in pleasure when she wrapped her soft hand against his rock hard member.


    Ellie gulped in nervousness when she wrapped her hand around it. It felt weird and right at the same time, she could feel goosebumps all over her body which made her feel chills down her spine. Amidst all the feelings and giddiness, she ended up squeezing it a bit too hard.


    Sebastian winces in pain and groaned, "Babe, not so hard."


    Loosening her grip, she pursed her lips, "I am so sorry." She was about to pull her hands away when he stopped him.


    "It''s alright." Placing his hand on hers he guided her hands to move in a rhythmic motion. He groaned in pleasure and left out of her hand. "Yeah babe just like that."


    Following his guide, she started jerking his throbbing shaft slowly at first before slowly increasing the speed.


    She gasped and tightened her grip around his member when he grabbed one her b.r.e.a.s.t and started massaging it. Both of them groaned in pleasure when he rolled her erect n.i.p.p.l.es in between his fingers while she started jerking him off faster.


    Though she was still wearing his thin shirt which had turned transparent after getting drenched with the cold water, he could still feel her softness in his palm.


    Nibbling her earlobe, he whispered, "Faster babe."


    Following his instruction, she increased the pace. When he tightened his grip around her waist and groaned, she panicked and was about to retrieve her hand back but he placed his hand on hers. "Don''t¡­."


    Understanding what he meant, she placed her hand back on the previous spot and jerked him off again.


    Burying his face on his neck, he groaned and spilled his content all over her. Hugging her tightly, he breathed heavily. "That was so good honey."


    Kissing the back of her hand, he smiled, "You are great." Giving her a peck on her lips, he added, "I love you."


    ...


    NEXT DAY


    Stewart International Group


    Sebastian''s office.


    "Geez what''s up with the huge grin man?" Brandon chuckled before sitting down right across him.


    Straightening his suit, Sebastian sighed, "It''s such a lovely morning, isn''t it?"


    "Did you have s.e.x?" When he shook his head, Brandon continued, "Because the morning after a lovely s.e.x is always lovely."


    Glaring at him, he inquired, "What are you doing here early in the morning again?"


    Clearing his throat, he answered, "I need to ask you something important or rather discuss something."


    "What is it? Anything business related?" When Brandon shook his head, Sebastian raised his brows, "You and Charlotte are already in a relationship right?"


    "Yes we have been dating for more than a month now," he answered.


    "Yeah so what is your problem?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Brandon explained, "Okay so the thing is, what Charlotte and I have is great and I love her a lot. But¡ªlike you and Ellie are in a relationship for so many months now so you will understand that there are a few things that we need to look into when we are dating someone."


    "Come straight to the point Brandon," Sebastian snapped, he was in a really great mood since yesterday night after their little sneaky activity in the washroom but Brandon''s confusing questions were making him feel muddle headed and killing his good mood.


    "I am coming to the point. So as I was saying, there are a few things that we need to take care of and one of those things is taking care of your partners s.e.x.u.a.l needs," Brandon further explained.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian nodded his head, "Okay, what are you exactly trying to say?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Brandon sighed, "You do remember the things that I told you about Charlotte and me, right? I mean, what happened between us the first time we met."


    "The night you couldn''t perform?"


    "Yes, so now since we are in a relationship again, Charlotte is expecting us to take our relationship to the next level and I want it too but¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Sebastian added, "You are scared that you won''t be able to perform and won''t be able to satisfy her needs?"


    Pinching the bridge of his nose, he sighed, "Exactly my point."


    "Brandon, you do realize that I have no experience in that area yet, right? You are sitting in the wrong office and ranting, Noah''s office is right next mine," Sebastian instructed.


    "I know but I still wanted to take your advice." When Sebastian frowned, he quickly added, "Look, you have always been the wise one who tends to know everything and I am sure that you can give me really good advice on this one. Better than the people who have an actual experience."


    Thinking for a while, Sebastian sighed and started explaining, "Let me give you a very good example, when a kid starts writing the alphabets for the first time, he makes many mistakes right?" When Brandon nodded his head, he added, "But as he keeps writing it over and over again, he excels in it and becomes flawless but despite knowing everything, there are times when he makes mistakes."


    Placing his hand on the desk, he continued, "He makes those mistakes not because he doesn''t know how to write the alphabets, it happens when he is under pressure or he is absent minded." Pausing for a while, he further explained, "No coming to you and Charlotte, you have been having s.e.x for a long time so you are pretty good at it. But despite having so much experience, you still couldn''t perform because maybe you were under pressure or the stress of making sure that she had a great time with you was too much to handle so your d.i.c.k gave up."


    Giving Brandon some time to understand everything, Sebastian added, "Now just because you couldn''t perform once doesn''t mean that you don''t know how it is done or cannot do anything at all. You know the alphabets Brandon, you just need to stop pressuring yourself. And I read somewhere that too much stress and pressure makes you impotent so take it easy."


    Without waiting for his reply, Sebastian stated, "And before I forget, we are throwing a dinner party this weekend, make sure that you come alone with Charlotte."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Brandon confidently slammed the desk. "You are right Seb, I know my alphabets pretty well."


    "I know man, you can do it," Sebastian encouraged him.


    ¡­...


    Ellie and Melissa''s office.


    "What brings madam Charlotte in our office this early?" Melissa inquired.


    "Brandon wanted to talk to Seb about something so he brought me with him" Charlotte answered.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 214 - Tips

    "You and Brandon are getting along quite well," Ellie smiled.


    Pressing her hand on the desk, Charlotte grinned, "Uh huh but I dont wanna talk about Brandon or our relationship because I cannot take my eyes off the love bite which is sparkling in you neck."


    Placing her hand on her neck when Ellie widened her eyes in shock, Melissa chuckled, "I think it wants us to talk about it. So, are you telling us or should we start guessing?"


    Arranging the doc.u.ments, she stated, "There is nothing to tell or talk about, you girls are overthinking."


    "Seriously El? Are you gonna lie to me now?" Melissa frowned.


    "Exactly. I helped you and Sebastian a lot only to be lied? This is how you treat your friends?" Charlotte added.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed. Her friends were so dramatic and she also knew that they would not shut up until she spills her gut out. "Okay, what do you guys wanna know?"


    "What happened? Did you two¡ª"


    Cutting Melissa off, she shook her head, "Nothing happened, well not at least what you both are thinking."


    "Are you f.u.c.k.i.n.g kidding me? Did you and Sebastian¡ª" Looking at Charlotte who had the same excited expression on her face, both of them squealed in excitement.


    "Girl, tell us everything," Charlotte beamed.


    Glancing at the watch, Ellie sighed, "We are still working and¡ª"


    Rolling her eyes, Melissa scoffed, "Oh please, it''s not like we are employees of the years or something."


    Thinking for a while, Ellie pursed her lips and decided to take their advice over a few things in which she had no experience. Sitting on the chair, she contemplated for a while before explaining, "Okay while we are at it, can you girls give me some tips?"


    "Tips over what? S.e.x?" When she nodded her head, Charlotte shrugged her shoulder. "What is there to tip about that? You just need to go with the flow."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie inquired, "And what if someone chickens out while they are at it?"


    Throwing her hand in her mouth, Melissa gasped, "You chicken out while making out."


    "Ahh you c.o.c.k blocker," Charlotte groaned in frustration.


    Scrunching his brows, Ellie snapped, "Hey it''s not like that, I know I shouldn''t have chicken out and I felt very guilty about it too but I helped him out later so we are even."


    Widening her eyes in shock, Charlotte remarked, "What a sec? What did you say? You helped him?"


    When Ellie awkwardly scratched her head with the pencil she was holding, Melissa dramatically gasped again, "You gave him a handjob."


    "Woah, nasty El," Charlotte grinned.


    "Oh come on, it''s not like you guys haven''t done it and I felt like he was in pain, okay? I thought I should help him out," Ellie frowned.


    "Pfft you think he was in pain? He was s.e.x.u.a.lly charged and horny for you El, why did you chicken out anyway? I mean, I am sure that the handjob did a marvelous job but still." Melissa curiously inquired.


    Chewing her cuticles, she sighed, "I don''t know, I got all scared and nervous. I also wanted it to happen but when it actually did, I freaked out."


    Rubbing her chin, Charlotte thought for a while before answering, "Okay let me give you an example, what happens when you want to give a presentation but you are not prepared? You know what you have to do but because of lack of experience and practice you are scared and nervous. Now even if you prepare for the presentation beforehand, you still feel scared and nervous but it is tolerable and you can easily overcome it."


    Without waiting for anyone''s reply, she further explained, "Coming to your thing, considering the fact that it''s your first time having s.e.x and you were not at all edxpecting it to happen yesterday, you were unprepared right?" When Ellie nodded her head, she continued, "This is why you chickened out, now to make sure that this doesn''t happen again, you gotta start preparing yourself."


    "Char is right, Lets just say that you were scared yesterday because you did not give your body any time to prepare," Melissa added.


    Thinking about it for quite some time, Ellie inquired, "So what should I do now?"


    "There are tons of things you can do to familiarize yourself with the whole concept first," Charlotte suggested.


    "El when was the last time you watched p.o.r.n?" Melissa inquired.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie answered, "College, senior year."


    "You gotta be kidding me," Charlotte scoffed before helplessly shaking her head.


    "What? I have no time to think about those things. I mean, it''s not like I had a boyfriend in the past and the previous company I used to work in had lots of work pressure so I never really had any time for myself. But now things are different so¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Melissa snapped, "Of course it''s different, you ain''t no saint El."


    "I know right, you gotta s.e.x up you life," Charlotte added.


    "Okay, what do I have to do?" Ellie inquired, since Melissa and Charlotte had a proper experience, it wouldn''t harm taking their advice.


    Glancing at the watch, Charlotte stated, "It''s quite late now and since you both have to work, lets meet up someday and discuss it."


    "We are throwing a dinner party this weekend, I think Seb already told Brandon about it so don''t forget to come," Ellie informed.


    "Cool, we will be there." Getting up, she grabbed her bag, "Alright, I will go see what my boyfriend is doing." Placing her hand on her chest, she sighed, "My boyfriend, ahh it feels so nice when you say it."


    "I am so past that boyfriend stage, I need a fiance now," Melissa sighed.


    "You and Noah have been dating each other for quite some time now, right?" When she nodded her head, Charlotte beamed, "You both should get engaged and get married, I so badly want to attend a wedding."


    "Me too, there are so many things I want to do at my best friend''s wedding," Ellie beamed.


    ¡­.


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:-


    This month has been really tough for me, I felt very burnt out and was also down with a cold and cough for a few days. I feel a little better today so I decided to write a couple of chapters.


    I hope you all will understand, I''ll update more next month and compensate for the loss :)


    With love,


    Sofia ?


    ....

 Chapter 215 - Discount

    "We are getting there, let''s just say that we are very close," Melissa chuckled.


    "Cool girls, I am so happy for everyone. You, Ellie, Ava and June everyone is so happy¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ellie raised her brows, "Wait, you know about Ava?"


    "Ava and Calvin? Of course I do. I stay with them, remember?" Charlotte stated.


    "Well yeah, girls got a point," Melissa chuckled.


    "Alright then, I''ll take a leave now and I''ll see you day after tomorrow." Blowing a kiss at them, Charlotte winked her at them before walking out.


    After she left, Melissa glanced at the watch and widened her eyes in shock, "I am late for the meeting."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie chuckled, "This is why I tell you to gossip less."


    Grabbing her file, Melissa sighed, "Gossip is like a vitamin for us women and without it, our life is kinda dull." Without waiting for her reply, she grinned, "Gossip reminds me that your crush was asking about you yesterday."


    "Crush? Who?"


    "Craig, I got a text yesterday and it was him so we started talking. After talking about random things, he asked about you. He was also asking for your number but I did not give it to him," she explained.


    "It''s good that you didn''t, Sebastian happens to have a very personal problem with Craig," Ellie chuckled.


    Scrunching her brows, Melissa inquired, "What? When did they meet?"


    Shaking her head, she answered, "No they haven''t met but Seb read my diary."


    Throwing her hand in her mouth, Melissa gasped, "The diary which was solely dedicated to Craig, the handsome hunk?" When Ellie nodded her head, she anxiously squealed, "And then? What happened after that?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, she answered, "He sounded very jealous, I even saw him punching the diary."


    "Pfft typical Seb, his actions are so childlike and adorable at times but then he is so mature too." Sighing in satisfaction, Melissa exclaimed, "He is childish when needed and mature most of the time, men like him are so rare."


    "Noah is one of a kind too."


    "Of course he is, my baby is the best," she exclaimed.


    "No, you are best babe," Noah smiled before hugging her from behind. Kissing her nape, he informed, "Meeting is about to start but you weren''t there so I decided to take a look."


    Widening her eyes in shock, Melissa gasped, "Ahh, we need to rush." Without waiting for his reply, she dragged him out of the room.


    After they left, Ellie sat down in her chair and resumed doing her work. She pursed her lips when images of what had happened last night flashed in her head. After doing the oral deed, they took a shower and cuddled all night. Since she was hungry after all the intense activities, Sebastian ordered some midnight snacks for her and they ate it together in the bed.


    Slumping on the chair, she swirled her finger in her hair and smiled. Life was so beautiful and everything was moving forward very smoothly. Things were going great but the main concern and question is, until when?


    ¡­.


    WEEKEND


    DINNER PARTY MORNING


    Supermarket


    "This is why I always ask you to make a list babe, that is the most important thing when you come to shop," Sebastian explained but he immediately sealed his lips when Ellie glared at him.


    Placing her hand on her waist, she snapped, "FYI, I did make the list but Bojo ate it."


    "Bojo doesn''t eat paper, he is a very well mannered boy," he sighed.


    Pursing her lips, she narrowed her eyes, "When I am saying that Bojo ate it that means that he really ate it."


    Raising both his hands in the air, he surrendered, "Alright, Bojo ate it."


    Pinching the bridge of her nose, she instructed, "Seb, take out your phone and start writing the ingredients."


    "As you say¡ª" Taking out his phone, he opened the notes and was about to gesture her to start naming the things she wanted when someone called him out.


    "Sebastian¡ª"


    Turning around, he slightly scrunched his eyebrows and quickly grabbed Ellie''s hand before the woman could approach them.


    "What a pleasant surprise, I wasn''t expecting to see you here." Without waiting for his response, she added, "And this place is a bit far from your place, if I am not wrong there is a supermarket there as well."


    "Yes there is but Ellie wanted to shop from here because they are giving some discount over a large variety of products," Sebastian answered.


    Looking at Ellie, the woman raised her brows, "Ellie?" Looking at their intertwined hands, she inquired, "Who is this beautiful woman beside you?"


    "I am extremely sorry for not introducing you both, she is Ellie Miller, my girlfriend." Looking at Ellie, he added, "Honey, she is aunt Pauline, my mother''s best friend."


    Smiling her at her, Ellie politely greeted her, "It''s very nice meeting you."


    Ignoring Ellie''s greetings, Pauline gave Sebastian a fake smiled and inquired, "Your mom never told me that you have a girlfriend now, in fact, she has asked me to talk to Mr Pi¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian firmly stated, "Since mom isn''t here, I haven''t told her about us yet but I will do it as soon as they come back. Now since you know and have met my beautiful girlfriend, I hope you will stop with the matchmaking thing because I have already found my match."


    When Ellie tightened her grip around his hand, he kissed the top of her head and smiled at her, "Let''s go now."


    "Well you kids should go and do you discount shopping thingy, I was leaving anyway." Looking at Ellie, Pauline smiled, "It''s nice meeting you Ellie, I am sure that we will meet in the future as well." Without waiting for their reply, she walked away.


    After Pauline was no one to be seen, Ellie breathed a sigh of relief, "Why are people that you know are so stressful to talk to? Except for aunt Rosy and uncle Sam, they are sweethearts."


    ....

 Chapter 216 - Dinner party

    Kissing the top of her head, Sebastian chuckled, "You are taking unnecessary stress, they are just normal people who are not important at all. Well, people like her are not but our parents are so let''s just focus on them, okay?"


    "And what if they don''t agree?" she curiously inquired.


    Hooking his arm around her shoulder while pushing the trolley forward with the other, he answered, "Well, in that case we have no other choice but to marry all by ourselves and later just shove a cute little baby right on their faces. I am telling you honey, they are going to melt and accept us just for that cute little monster who will call them a grandpa and grandma."


    "Hmm, I like that plan Mr Stewart but let''s keep that as our last option."


    "Alright, we will do as you say sweetheart. Now, why don''t we get started with the shopping? We have guests coming by and we can''t be late."


    ...


    Calvin''s place.


    Evening.


    ??Okay, why don''t we tell him after we come back from the trip?" Calvin suggested.


    Giving him a weird look, Ava crossed her arms at the front, "Cal, are you feeling scared?"


    "Of course honey, Seb is a hundred times more violent than Noah and I don''t wanna go to Hawaii black and blue." Wearing his shoes, he added, "I am sure that you dont wanna hang out with a guy who is bruised all over his face."


    "Well, I just thought we should tell him before he finds out on his own and gets all hyped up."


    Placing his head on her lap, he sighed, "I know how you are feeling and what you are saying is one hundred percent correct but can we please tell him after the trip?" Without waiting for her reply, he added, "We have been planning this trip for a really long time, I just don''t want anything to happen which will spoil our mood. I mean, we don''t know how Seb will react, right? What if he reacts like an asshole, possessive big bro who will try to separate us?"


    Running her fingers through his hair, she chuckled, "Even you know Seb isn''t like that."


    "Yeah but what are the odds? You never know what might happen and if what I just said really happens then that will spoil our mood and Seb''s mood which means that Ellie will not have fun either. The tension between us will obviously affect everyone''s mood and no one will be able to enjoy the vacation." Kissing the back of her hand, he continued, "I just don''t want that to happen."


    Thinking about it for quite some time, Ava sighed, "Fine but we will tell him as soon as we come back from the vacation."


    "I promise, we will do as you say."


    Glancing at the watch, she gasped, "It''s already so late, we need to leave."


    "I am already ready babe, let''s leave as soon as you are done."


    ...


    Charlotte''s room.


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, Brandon placed his chin on her shoulder, "You look stunning." Kissing her nape, he sighed, "Why didn''t I come earlier?"


    Turning towards him, she playfully tapped the tip of his nose followed by his lips and chin. "Too bad we are already late for the dinner party."


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, he smiled, "I don''t think Seb and El will mind, what do you think?"


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she chuckled, "Well, someone is fully charged today."


    Caressing the side of her waist, Brandon shrugged his shoulder, "Well, it''s not like I am not charged when I am with you. Trust me babe, when it comes to your there is no end to my batteries but¡ª"


    When he did not say anything, Charlotte curiously inquired, "But what? Come now, complete your sentence honey."


    Keeping quiet for some time, he explained, "You know what happened the last when we tried to¡ª" Stopping midway, he sighed, "Well, you know. So I was just thinking what if that happens again? I mean, it''s not like I have some kind of a dysfunction problem or something like that. Trust me honey, my d.i.c.k is quite healthy."


    "When did I say that it''s not healthy?" Cupping his face, she sighed, "Babe, you are unnecessary stressing over it. What happened that night was just an accident¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he remarked, "What if it happens again? What if I can''t¡ªyou know what I mean."


    "Well, if you stress about it so much, you will definitely have some serious problem." Giving him a peck on his lips, she smiled, "And maybe I won''t squeeze it hard this time."


    Burying his face on her chest, he chuckled, "Only you make me so nervous."


    "Wait, I should be the one feeling nervous and not you." When he brushed his lips against her neck, she chuckled and pushed him away, "Duh huh, we gotta leave."


    Scrunching his brows, he complained, "It''s not like they are rewarding people who are on time."


    "We can''t be late." Getting down from his lap, she instructed, "Now get up, we have to leave."


    Left with no other choice, Brandon got up and helplessly shook his head.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian and Ellie''s place.


    Kitchen


    When Sebastian walked into the kitchen, Boji and Bojo were quietly sitting on the floor watching their mommy cook the delicious smelling food.


    "Look at them drooling all over the floor," he chuckled before walking towards Ellie who was busy making a salad. Rubbing his hands towards, he groaned in satisfaction, "Babe, it smells so great."


    "I am almost done, how was the meeting?" she inquired.


    "It was smooth." Tucking a lock of hair behind her ear, he sighed, "I am sorry I couldn''t help you out, I completely forgot about the online meeting¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she assured him, "It''s completely alright honey, you would have slowed me down anyway."


    Raising his brows, he scoffed, "Really? You would have been ready by now if I would have helped you."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 217 - Planning

    "We would have been stuck in the main course if you were in the kitchen too," she chuckled.


    Hugging her from behind, he inquired, "Are you trying to tell me that I distract you?"


    "What is there to tell? It is a fact honey, we always end up abandoning everything and cuddling in the middle of everything that we try to do together." Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "I don''t know how and why do I always end up giving in to your sly tricks and unruly cute behavior."


    "Hmm that happens because you love me honey and you cannot resist my handsomeness," he gloated.


    Slapping his hand away, she rolled her eyes, "Stop acting like a donkey."


    Shrugging his shoulders, he exclaimed, "Considering the fact that donkey is your favorite animal, I don''t mind being one."


    "Donkey reminds me, what did you do with my stuffed toy?" When he did not say anything, she crossed her arms in the front and snapped, "Sebastian Stewart, where is my donkey plushie?"


    "Hmm which one?" he innocently inquired.


    "The one you gave me a long time back as a sorry gift for shouting at me like a mad man," she snapped.


    Pretending to think for a long time, he asked, "You mean the one you used to hug to sleep all night? And the one who used to act like a plushie wall between us?" When she frowned and nodded her head, he smiled, "Well, I threw that away."


    Throwing her hand in her mouth, she gasped, "What? How can you do that?"


    "What? It''s not like it was something special and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "Of course it was special Sebastian, that was the first gift you gave me. How could you just throw it away?"


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, he sighed, "Alright now don''t be mad, I did not throw it anywhere. It''s lying somewhere in my study." Pausing for a while, he frowned, "I just don''t like how you hug that toy to sleep all night."


    "Don''t I hug you too?"


    "Yeah but I don''t like sharing, I don''t want anything else to be close to you even if it''s a damn non-living fat toy," he retorted.


    Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "You are unbelievable."


    Hooking his arms around her shoulder, he inquired, "Okay, so what did you make today?"


    "Well, for starters we have tater tots, crab cakes, buffalo wings and seasoned tacos with freshly homemade sauce." Without waiting for his reply, she further explained, "For the main course we have homemade garlic bread with a very special dipping sauce, fried chicken steak, seasoned salad, fried rice with sausages, yams, some wild Alaska Salmon because June wanted to eat fish. I also made some spaghetti with meatballs and lasagna."


    Raising his brows, Sebastian chuckled, "Wow, seriously how long was I stuck in the meeting? You made so many things in my absence."


    "I had prepared for them yesterday night so it was much easier today," she chuckled.


    Rubbing his palms together, he curiously inquired, "What do we have for dessert?"


    "Chocolate pudding pie," she answered.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he pouted his lips, "You made everything except for something¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she remarked, "Your sandwiches are right there in the counter but don''t eat them all, leave some for our guests too." Glancing at the watch, she sighed, "I need to go get ready."


    "Uh huh you should, they will be here any minute." Pushing her out of the kitchen, he added, "I''ll heat the food."


    "Help Bojo and Boji change too," she instructed before rushing towards the room.


    After she was nowhere to be seen, he slowly made his way towards the sandwiches which were peacefully and deliciously resting on the plate. Looking at them, he thought for a while before counting them.


    He scrunched his eyebrows when he realized that there were fifteen sandwiches while they were just twelve of them. Thinking for quite some time, he quickly took out three sandwiches from the plate and hid it somewhere safe. He would eat them at peace after everyone leaves.


    ¡­.


    When Ellie came down, Noah and Melissa had already arrived.


    Taking a deep breath, Noah sighed, "I can already smell heaven."


    Rubbing her stomach, Melissa grunted, "Please stop me from overeating and feeling bloated again."


    "Its alright Mel, you can eat as much as you want." Wrapping his arms around Ellie''s shoulder, Sebastian smiled, "We have plenty of food."


    Pouting her lips, she complained, "I am going to become fat this way."


    "I am okay with that," Noah remarked.


    Placing her hand on Sebastian''s chest, Ellie smiled, "I''ll go get some wine for us."


    "Hmm okay, I''ll call Calvin and others." After she left along with Melissa, Sebastian turned towards Noah and inquired, "Did you talk to Melissa about it?"


    Noah sighed and helplessly shook his head, "Not yet but I did try to tell her about it in an indirect manner but she didn''t seem so interested, I think we should just let them go."


    "If they leave, we have to postpone our vacation plans," Sebastian murmured making sure that he wasn''t too loud.


    "I know right? But even if they take us with them to Seattle, where the hell are we going to stay?" Noah curiously inquired.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian snapped, "I am pretty sure that you are familiar with a very interesting and well known term called hotel?"


    Rolling his eyes, Noah scoffed, "Of course I am but what is the use of going there when we have to stay in hotels? That is equivalent to staying back in L.A while they fly there."


    Thinking for a while, Sebastian nodded his head, "You are right, so what should we do?"


    "We need a solid plan, let me think about it."


    ¡­..


    Kitchen.


    "And then?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie answered, "Nothing, she just gave me weird looks and left."


    Wiping the plates, Melissa frowned, "This doesn''t sound very nice."


    Both of them were talking about what had happened at the supermarket in the morning when Sebastian and Ellie were shopping.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 218 - "Nothing about you is little........"

    "Hmm I know but sooner or later this was bound to happen. Though I didn''t want to tell anyone about us yet but Seb is quite open about it¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Melissa explained, "Which is very good, I like how Seb isn''t restraining himself despite knowing that his parents, especially his mom will definitely raise an objection."


    "Yeah I know but I want things to run smoothly, I just don''t want to create a difference between him and his parents. Though we both are independant and big enough to make our own decisions, there are a few things that we have to keep in mind before taking a major step," Ellie explained.


    "Well you both still have plenty of time but I am sure that that woman will definitely tell Rebecca about it and she will come back soon. So I am telling you El, you need to have s.e.x with Sebastian before she comes back and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ellie chuckled, "Now where did s.e.x come from?"


    "You gotta be kidding me." Placing her hand on Ellie''s shoulder, Melissa sighed, "Look babe, I know that Seb will always love you no matter what but believe me or not, intimacy is very important in a relationship. It''s not about l.u.s.t or s.e.x, its about making love and knowing your partners touch. You and Seb have been living together for months now, you both are dating each other for quite some time, I think it''s time for you both to take a major step."


    Thinking for quite some time, she sighed, "We did try but I chickened out."


    "Uh huh because that was the first time and you weren''t ready. Ahh we are going for a vacation soon, I am telling you girl no other place is better than Hawaii to¡ª" Melissa stopped midway when Sebastian entered the kitchen.


    "Babe everyone is here." Looking at Melissa and Ellie simultaneously, Sebastian raised his brows, "Did I interrupted some girly topic?"


    "We were just talking about random things." Looking at Melissa, she instructed, "Mel, why don''t you go outside? Seb and I will get some starters for your guys."


    "Okay, I''ll take the wine glasses." Grabbing the glasses which were resting on the counter, Melissa walked out of the kitchen.


    Hugging her from behind, Sebastian chuckled, "Did you tell everyone that you chickened out that night?"


    Widening her eyes in shock, she smacked his hand, "Were you eavesdropping our conversation?"


    "I didn''t mean to but I was about to enter when Melissa mentioned ''intimacy'' so I decided to act a bit sly and listen." Kissing her nape, he sighed, "You don''t have to feel bad about last time, we did really have fun in the shower so¡ª"


    Turning towards him, she hooked her arms around his neck, "Hmm we surely did but I still want to make it up to you in a better way."


    Kissing her forehead, he smiled, "We will get there eventually, don''t stress over it."


    "I am not stressing, just thinking about it," she answered.


    Shrugging his shoulder, he stated, "Well, if you are feeling so bad about it and really want to make it up to me¡ª" When she raised her brows, he quickly explained, "Now I am saying this because I want to but only because I don''t want you to feel awful or bad, okay? I care about you and I love you."


    Pausing for a while, he swirled his finger around the lock of hair which was falling on her shoulder. "Take me to Seattle with you."


    "Seb¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he explained, "Listen to me first, I wanna go to Seattle for a really long time because I have never been there for a vacation. Just to be clear, I am not going there because I will miss you or anything, I just want to go there because it will make me happy."


    When she did not say anything, he further explained, "I just want you to feel better and not guilty for being unfair that night. Just to let you know, blue balls are a very serious thing, men die because of that and you gave me one that day."


    Pursing her lips, she nodded her head, "Okay, I''ll think about it." Without waiting for his reply, she wiggled out of his embrace. "Now why don''t you take the plates outside and I''ll bring the food out."


    "What is there to think? Can''t you just take this little thing with you? I will be a good boy and I promise not to bug you for sandwiches."


    Passing him the plate, she chuckled, "Who little thing? You?" When he nodded his head, she helplessly shook her head, "Nothing about you is little."


    Raising his brows, he grinned, "I was talking about the little kid in my heart which is still alive but I am very sure that you are talking about that."


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, she explained, "Well, I was talking about your height and your tall stature." Without waiting for his reply, she grabbed the tray which had the starter and rushed outside.


    ¡­.


    Living room.


    "I am telling you, it''s true."


    Rolling his eyes, Brandon scoffed, "Nonsense, this is the twenty first century, humans are no less than ghosts."


    "I know right? Ghosts should be afraid of humans, we are that dangerous," Calvin added.


    Shrugging her shoulder, Ava sighed, "Alright don''t believe me but that is true."


    Keeping the tray down, Ellie inquired, "What is true?"


    "Hmm nothing much, I was just telling everyone that the beach house we are planning to stay in is haunted but the people with balls here refuse to believe me," Ava answered.


    "Are you talking about uncle''s Sam''s beach house?" When Ava nodded her head, Sebastian added, "I don''t know if it''s haunted but it was a mental asylum hundreds of years back and the locals claim that they used to hear screaming and weird noises from there even though the hospital was shut down."


    "Pfft¡ª" Splattering the wine all over the table from his mouth, Noah gulped in nervousness. "T-That story is true?" he stuttered.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 219 - Haunted

    "It''s one hundred percent legit bruh." Without waiting for his reply, Ava inquired, "Who told you that it''s not true?"


    "Mom, she told me that ghosts don''t exist." Shifting towards Melissa, Noah gulped in nervousness, "They don''t right?"


    "Are you kidding me? Of course they exist." Without waiting for anyone''s reply, Charlotte explained, "There was this big abandoned house right behind our school and it was one hundred percent haunted. Some local people and our school guards claimed that they have seen a woman dressed in white walking back and forth in the balcony at night. It is said that the woman is Mrs Adlemen who was stood up by her husband after their wedding. Her husband never showed up after they got married but she used to wait for him dressed in her wedding dress everyday in her balcony hoping that he would show up but he never did. So after a couple of years, she got irritated and killed herself in that balcony itself."


    Raising his brows, Owen shoved a tater in his mouth. "Okay now that is spooky."


    "Well maybe ghosts don''t exist but I do believe that spirits do exist and they are always watching us," Ellie added.


    "A-Always?" Noah stuttered.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian chuckled, "Now stop it you guys, do you want Noah to pee his pants again?"


    "Wait, what do you mean by again?" Ellie chuckled.


    Sebastian was about to say something when Calvin stopped him. "I''ll say." Looking at Ellie, he started explaining, "So we were in college and it was our summer break¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Ava snapped, "We used to visit our grandfather''s farmhouse during our summer break and chill there."


    "Yeah so one day, grandpa had to leave for a night because he had to attend something important and we had to stay with housekeeper Jones for the night," Sebastian added.


    Cutting them off, Noah scoffed, "In my defence, housekeeper Jones was a really scary man. He looked like Yeti and¡ª"


    "Oh please, just because uncle Jones was a little hairy doesn''t make him a Yeti," Ava retorted.


    Scrunching his brows, Noah snapped, "A little? You think that was a little hair? I accidentally dropped a small piece of lego in his arm hair and couldn''t find it. They were that dense and made him look like a monster."


    "Hmm can we stop discussing man hair and talk about the peeing part?" When everyone gave him a weird look, Brandon shrugged his shoulders, "What? I just wanna know why Noah peed his pants."


    "Well anyway, so that night we decided to do something fun and Owen suggested that we should talk to the spirits¡ª"


    Cutting Ava off, Noah frowned, "I told them that it is a very bad idea but they didn''t listen to me, even Sebastian thought it was a nice idea."


    "I was just bored and wanted to try something fun too," Sebastian added.


    "What happened after that?" Ellie curiously inquired.


    "So we made that board¡ªhmmm what is it called?" Ava asked before looking at Owen.


    "Ouija board," he answered.


    "Yes Ouija board, so we made that board and were all ready to talk to any spirit but before we could even start it, Noah suddenly jumped in and started yelling. He then ran out of the room peeing his pants¡ª" Laughing out loud, Ava added, "Oh God it was so funny."


    "Wait, what did he see?" Charlotte inquired.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian chuckled, "Right when we were about to start, uncle Jones entered the room with beverages and snacks for us so Noah saw him and thought it was some kind of a monster."


    "You guys are such liars, I was already very scared and when suddenly he appeared I just freaked out." Without waiting for anyone''s reply, Noah added, "And I didn''t pee, I just spilled water all over the floor."


    Rolling her eyes at him, Ava scoffed, "Oh please, stop lying."


    "Dude, your pee was all over your pants and the floor," Owen chuckled.


    Patting Noah''s head, Melissa chuckled, "Ah you guys, stop teasing my baby."


    "Geez so you really peed your pants? Are you tha scared of ghosts?" Charlotte inquired.


    "What is there not to be scared about? Haven''t you seen horror movies which are based on real events? I am telling you guys, my daughter will never play with dolls. I mean, what if one of them turns out to be Anabelle''s sister?" Noah explained.


    "Okay now if we are done teasing Noah, let''s talk about the trip." Pausing for a while, Sebastian added, "First, everyone is in, right?"


    "Charlotte and I are one hundred percent in," Noah answered.


    Owen nodded his head and answered, "We are joining too."


    "What about Bojo and Boji? Where will they stay?" June inquired.


    "We have already thought about that, they will be staying with uncle Sam and aunt Rosy," Ellie answered.


    Rubbing his hands together, Calvin smiled, "Then we are all set, when are we leaving?"


    "Well, El and I have plans of flying to Seattle next weekend so maybe after that?" Melissa answered.


    Thinking for a while, Brandon suggested, "Why don''t we start off next Sunday? You both can fly to Seattle on Friday and then fly to Hawaii from there on Sunday. We will fly there on Sunday as well."


    "Hmm I like this plan but I don''t want to leave Ellie alone for such a long flight." Pretending to think for a while, Sebastian suggested, "Why don''t Noah and I also fly to Seattle with you guys? We can stay in a hotel and then all of us can fly out together."


    "That is a nice plan, what do you think babe?" Noah inquired.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Melissa answered, "I am okay with it."


    Leaning towards Sebastian, Ellie chuckled, "Nice one Mr Stewart, you are really a very intelligent man."


    "I told you I will come up with something, there is no way you can leave me alone Ellie Miller." Wrapping his arms around her waist, Sebastian whispered, "I''ll always stick close to you and never let you go anywhere."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 220 - Affair

    A week later (A night before Sebastian and Ellie fly to Seattle)


    Sebatian and Ellie''s place.


    Living room.


    "So these are for your mother and this is for your father." Picking up the half open sweet box, Sebastian frowned, "Why is this open?"


    "Are you sure it wasn''t like that honey? The people of that store are so careless, how can they give an open box?" Ellie sighed and helplessly shook her head.


    Keeping the box down, he thought for a while and remarked, "When I went upstairs, the box was properly sealed. What were you doing at that time?"


    "I-I was in the kitchen making coffee for us." Without waiting for his reply, she pointed at Bojo and Boji. "They were here."


    Crossing his arms at the front, he raised his brows, "Are you trying to say that Bojo and Boji opened the box and ate the sweets?"


    "Could be, how would I know? I was in the kitchen," she answered.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian sighed, "These were for your parents babe, I would have got another box for you if you had told me."


    Pouting her lips, she whined, "First I thought I was full but then when I saw them, I started feeling hungry again." Grabbing his arm, she placed her head on his shoulder. "You are giving it to my parents, right? So I will eat it anyway, let''s just say that I ate some in advance."


    "Seriously, you want me to give your parents an open box? What will they think of me? This is the first time I am meeting them so everything has to be perfect." It would be a lie if he said that he wasn''t nervous, in fact, he was very nervous. Apart from the fact he was meeting her parents for the first time after being an official relationship with Ellie, he knew that her father didn''t quite like him which made him even more nervous.


    "Why are you fussing about meeting them? Trust me honey, you are going to be fine. My parents are quite easy going and super friendly so it won''t be a problem," she explained.


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, Sebastian sighed, "Honey your dad hates me¡ª"


    Cupping his face, she sighed, "He doesn''t hate you Seb, he is just not very fond of you because dad doesn''t know how sweet you are."


    "You are not very fond of people you hate," he retorted.


    Sitting on his lap, she hooked her arms around his neck, "Don''t worry about anything, I''ll handle them."


    Running his finger through her hair, he inquired, "Are you sure that it''s okay for me to stay at your place? I mean, I can stay at the hotel and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she frowned, "Why do you wanna stay in a hotel so bad? Is there someone else you are planning to see behind my back?" Throwing her hand in her mouth in a very dramatic manner, she gasped, "Are you having an affair?"


    Knocking her forehead, he sighed, "Alright now don''t be silly, what makes you think that I will ever have an affair or anything like that?"


    "Well I don''t know, men are unpredictable," she retorted.


    "Who is telling you these stupid things? Babe, you and June gotta stop listening to Charlotte, Melissa and Ava. Owen was telling me that even June talks about things like this," he frowned.


    "If you aren''t planning to see anyone behind my back then stay with me in my place, you are gonna love my mom''s cooking and Noah will be just next door so you don''t have to worry," she explained.


    ¡­..


    Seattle.


    Harry and Judith''s place.


    "Why on earth are you being so cranky?" Judith sighed and helplessly shook her head.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Harry frowned, "Why does she have to bring her boss along? She is coming to see us after so many months, shouldn''t she come alone and not bring a guest with her?''


    "Harry there is a high chance that our daughter is dating the man she is bringing home tomorrow, now as a supportive father can''t you just accept your almost twenty-six years old daughter is bringing a man home and we have to welcome him," she snapped.


    Shrugging his shoulders, he retorted, "Well, we don''t know if she is dating that man. What if he is just her boss and she is bringing him for a tour to get a promotion?"


    Helplessly shaking her head, she grabbed the grocery bag from the table and looked at him. "Maybe she is bringing him here for a vacation to give you a promotion. You know, from a father to grandfather." Without waiting for her reply, she walked into the kitchen.


    Scrunching his brows, Harry retorted, "Honey, what are you saying? I am not ready to be a grandfather now, I am too young to be called one."


    "So now they have to wait until you are ready to become a grandpa? When did this new trend start?"


    "Maybe I''ll start it but let''s not get into that, I am telling you Judi if our El was dating this boss of hers, she would definitely tell us," he reasoned out.


    Walking towards him, she placed her hand on his shoulder and sighed, "She has given us enough hints Harry, you should have figured out by now."


    "What kind of hint? I never got one," he frowned.


    "Whenever you call her, she says that she is with Sebastian and she also talks about him a lot. They even adopted a dog together¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "What? A dog? When did that happen? Ellie did not tell me anything about any kind of dog."


    "She told me and I wasn''t supposed to tell you so act like you don''t know anything," she instructed.


    Scrunching his brows, he scoffed, "So now my daughter is hiding things from me? So do they also have a child together about whom I am not supposed to know?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 221 - Paranoid

    "You are overreacting again Harry, you need to calm down and you better not create a scene or switch to your sarcasm mode when they arrive tomorrow morning," Judith warned.


    Scrunching his brows, Harry scoffed, "Do you want me to pretend that I know nothing and welcome her boss?"


    Crossing her arms in the front, she firmly answered, "Yes, is that a problem?"


    Vigorously shaking his head, he answered, "No, no problem at all. I will be at my best behaviour, don''t worry about that."


    "Good, now go and change the guest rooms bed sheet and curtains," she instructed.


    "What? Why should I do that for him?" Harry retorted.


    Shrugging his shoulders, Judith smiled, "If you want him to share a room with your daughter then don''t do it."


    "I will change it right away¡ª"


    "Use the new sheets and curtains that I bought yesterday and while you are at it, change Ellie''s room''s bed sheet to. Use the one with pink flowers for Ellie''s room and the blue ones for the guests room," she further instructed.


    "Why? Does Mr Boss have some kind of an allergy with pink flowers?" he scoffed.


    "Maybe he hates pink, I don''t know Harry, just do what I have told you," she answered.


    Raising his brows, he smiled and nodded his head before walking upstairs. "This is gonna be fun," he muttered.


    ...


    Next Day


    Los Angeles


    Samuel and Rosy''s place.


    "These are their toys, they always play with them in the morning and evening," Ellie explained before passing Rosy another bag. "And these are their clothes, it has their night jammies¡ª"


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, Sebastian sighed, "Relax honey, they are gonna be okay."


    "Yes, don''t worry about them, we will take care of your babies very well," Rosy assured her.


    Placing her hand on Rosy''s, Ellie sighed, "It''s not that I think you won''t take care of them well, this is the first time we are leaving them for a really long time so I am just a little bit nervous and anxious."


    "It''s completely understandable darling but don''t worry about anything, just enjoy your vacation." looking at Bojo and Boji, Rosy chuckled,"Look at them, they already love this place."


    "Bojo, Boji come here," Sebastian called them out and the two fur babies came running towards him. Squatting down, he took out some treats from his pocket. "Now be good while mom and dad are away for a while, okay? Dad will give you more treats when he is back."


    Ruffling and kissing their head, Ellie sighed, "I love you too and I promise that we will be back soon." When both Bojo and Boji started snuggling closer, she gave them a tight hug. "Yeah, I''ll miss you too."


    Looking at Sebastian, she pouted her lips. "Can we cancel?"


    Running his fingers through his hair, he assured her, "They are gonna be okay honey and no we can''t cancel, you parents are waiting. Everything is already well planned for Hawaii as well¡ª" Glancing at his watch, he added, "We have to leave otherwise we are gonna be late for the flight."


    Taking a deep breath, she sighed, "Alright, lets go." Giving both of them a kiss, she got up.


    Giving her a hug, Rosy smiled, "Have a safe journey and have fun."


    "You kids should have loads of fun," Samuel smiled.


    ¡­..


    Seattle


    Harry and Judith''s place.


    "You gotta be kidding me?" Mary, Melissa''s mother chuckled.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Judith chuckled, "You haven''t seen the expression on Harry''s face when someone mentions or talks about Sebastian in front of him."


    "Well, it''s understandable why he feels that way. I mean, Harry is so close to Ellie and the father daughter pair have always been inseparable. Trust me, I was shocked when you told me that he agreed with Ellie moving out and settling down in Seattle," Mary sighed.


    "Ellie is a grown up now, we can''t interfere with the decisions she takes."


    Mary nodded her head and smiled, "Uh huh and she has always been the sensible one, Sebastian is a really nice boy. Mel was telling me that he really cares and takes care of Ellie."


    "Why does he need to take care of my daughter? She is capable of taking care of herself," Harry retorted before opening the refrigerator.


    "Did you change the sheets properly yesterday honey?" Glancing at the watch, Judith sighed, "It''s almost time and there are a lot of things I have to prepare."


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, he smiled, "Relax honey, everything is under control."


    Raising her brows, Mary stated, "That grin on his face, why does it look so dangerous?"


    "What dangerous? You are the one who is dangerous here." Shrugging his shoulders, Harry scoffed, "Stop being paranoid."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Mary sighed, "Alright, I need to leave now. I''ll see you in the evening, okay?"


    "Yeah sure, ask Mel and Noah to visit us as well," Judith smiled.


    "Of course, my daughter loves you more than she loves her own parents, she will definitely come here even if you don''t invite her," Mary chuckled.


    ¡­..


    Los Angeles


    Airpot


    "Did you check everything? And¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Ellie rolled her eyes, "Seb will you stop panicking? We are just going to my parents place." Placing her hand on his, she assured him, "Everything is going to be okay."


    "Yeah dude chill," Noah chuckled.


    "Says the man whose ass was sweating when he met my parents for the first time," Melissa commented without taking her eyes off the magazine she was reading.


    Wrapping her arms around his, Ellie rested her head on his shoulder, "Just relax honey, it''s not the first time you are meeting them anyway."


    "Well, the first time wasn''t that great or promising and your father doesn''t seem to be fond of me," Sebastian sighed.


    "El, did you tell uncle and aunty about the trip?" Melissa inquired.


    "No, I will tell them today in person but I am sure they won''t mind," she answered.


    .....

 Chapter 222 - In-laws

    "What if they ask you not to go?" When Melissa and Ellie gave him a weird look, he shrugged his shoulder, "What? Don''t give me that look, I am just trying to be practical."


    "You are not being practical but you are jixing it, seriously Noah if something like this happens then I am going to kill you," Sebastian snapped.


    Tightening her grip around Sebastian''s arm, Ellie sighed, "Why on earth will they not let me go? Stop overthinking honey, everything is going to run smoothly."


    "El, are you going to tell uncle and aunty about your relationship?" When she nodded her head, Melissa added, "That is great, I am sure aunt Judi will be happy. I am not sure about uncle Harry though."


    "Hey Seb, do you remember how badly he snapped at you when we were at the hospital? Damn, that was quite depressing," Noah sighed.


    Hitting Boah with the magazine, Melissa narrowed her eyes, "Can you at least say something good? Why are you being so pessimistic today?"


    "Just stating the fact babe, our Seb has to be ready to face all the mishaps and challenges that Ellie''s dad will throw at him." Without waiting for her reply, Noah added, "Remember how I made your father love me?"


    "Melissa''s father loves you?" When Noah grinned and pridly nodded his head, Sebastian scrunched his brows and started sulking. How could Noah share a very nice relationship with his father-in-law but here he was still trying to figure out how he could make things decent with Ellie''s father?


    Seeing through his sulky expression, Ellie gave him a peck on his cheeks and smiled, "Relax, when the right time comes dad is going to love you. In fact, you both have a lot of things in common."


    "Really?" When she nodded her head, he excitedly inquired, "What kind of common things are we talking about?"


    Thinking and hesitating for a while, she answered, "Well, dad loves his work and you love work too."


    "Okay, what else?"


    "Hmm dad loves me and you love me too, obviously in a very different way but at least both of you love me." Without waiting for his reply, she continued, "You care for me and fold my clothes, dad does that too."


    Thinking about all the so-called common things that she had stated, he scrunched his brows, "Are you trying to make fun of me babe?"


    "Fun? When did I make fun of you? I am just trying to state the real facts," she chuckled.


    Before Sebastian could say anything, Noah stated, "Flight time people, let''s fly to our in-laws. Oh God this is actually so cool, after I marry Mel and you marry Ellie then Seattle will be our second home."


    ¡­..


    Seattle.


    Harry and Judith''s place.


    Placing the plates on the table, Judith frowned, "Will you at least come and help me out with the plates?"


    "Do you want me to break the plate in which that boss is supposed to eat me?"


    "Do you want me to break the plate in which you are supposed to eat?" she retorted.


    Left with no other choice, he turned off the television and made his way towards the dining table. "I am doing this only because I don''t want you to take the pressure all by yourself. And it has nothing to do with the fact that I like that boss or anything."


    "Will you stop calling him boss? He has a very nice name, Sebastian," Judith snapped.


    "Yeah whatever and who names their kid Sebastian? Such a boring name," he scoffed.


    A few minutes later, the doorbell rang.


    "I think they are here." Taking her apron off, Judith made her way towards the door. "Harry come down, Ellie and Senbastian are here."


    Without wasting any time, she quickly opened the door.


    "Mom," Ellie beamed before giving her mom a tight hug.


    "Ah my baby, I missed you so much," Judith remarked.


    "I missed you and dad alot too."


    "Why didn''t you visit us before then?" she inquired.


    Hesitating for a while, Ellie answered, "There is too much work in the office and I couldn''t leave Seb alone."


    Pulling away, Judith smiled, "Of course honey, Sebastian needs your company."


    "Hello Mrs Miller, it''s a pleasure to meet you again," Sebastian awkwardly yet very politely greeted Judith.


    "It''s pleasure to meet you too Sebastian but you don''t have to be so formal, everyone is family here," she smiled.


    "Mom, you have no idea how stressed Seb has been since yesterday night, he also brought so many gifts for you and dad," Ellie chuckled.


    Giving her the bags, he smiled, "It''s just a small gift."


    "Ah you didn''t have to, you are too sweet," Judith sighed before taking it from his hand.


    "I told him the same thing but he never listens to me," Ellie added.


    Raising his brows, Sebastian retorted, "Never? I never listen to you?"


    Sticking her tongue out, she chuckled, "Well, not never but sometimes you don''t."


    "When was the last time I didn''t?" he curiously inquired.


    Thinking for a couple of seconds, she answered, "Yesterday night when I told you not to buy gifts for my parents, you ignored me and kept buying things."


    "Alright kids, why don''t you both save your cute argument and continue after we have lunch?" Judith chuckled.


    ¡­..


    Inside the house.


    "Here comes my pumpkin," Harry exclaimed before giving Ellie a warm hug.


    "I missed you so much dad," she smiled.


    Breathing a sigh of relief, he smiled, "I missed you too honey."


    Pulling away, she grabbed Sebastian''s hand and pulled him towards them. "Dad, you remember Sebastian, right?"


    "Yeah I remember you boss," Harry answered.


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, she added, "Yes but Sebastian is not just my boss, he is my¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Harry stated, "Friend? I know that he is your¡ª"


    "Boyfriend¡ª" Pausing for a while, she continued, "Seb and I have been dating for months now."


    "And they have also adopted a dog, right kids?" Judith inquired.


    "Two dogs actually, Bojo and Boji," she added.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 223 - Family secret

    When Harry did not say anything, Ellie quickly added, "They are really cute, do you want to see their picture?"


    "Oh I would love to," Judith beamed.


    "Hold on, let me look for my phone¡ª"


    Taking Ellie''s phone out of his pocket, Sebastian said, "Your phone but I don''t think it has their pictures."


    Thinking for a while, she sighed, "Ah I remember taking pictures from your phone." Looking at her father who was still quiet, she added, "Because his camera is better than mine so the pictures, it is more clear and distinct."


    "Alright kids, why don''t you both wash your hands and freshen up a bit before we start having lunch," Judith instructed.


    After Ellie and Sebastian left, Harry scoffed, "You knew about this didn''t you?"


    "I don''t know what you are talking about." Without waiting for his reply, Judith made her way towards the kitchen.


    "Judi you know you can''t lie to me, it''s written all over your face," he retorted before following her.


    Shrugging her shoulders, she sighed, "I am not lying or anything, I had no idea but well, let''s just say that I guessed it right."


    "So this is how everything is going to be in the future? My daughter will visit us sometimes and that too not alone¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "What problem do you have with Sebastian? He is smart, handsome, sweet and he also got gifts for us¡ª"


    "Bribes, those are not gifts but bribes," he retorted.


    "It''s a sweet gesture, he is trying to impress us because he cares for our daughter and don''t tell me that you think they don''t look cute together." Taking a deep breath, Judith added, "Stop acting like a baby Harry, you are fifty already."


    "Forty-nine, I am forty-nine and not fifty," he snapped before picking up the culinary from the cabinet and dashing out of the kitchen.


    "You know this is why my mom wanted us to have another baby after Ellie," Judith snapped.


    Storming into the kitchen again, Harry frowned, "Now from where did your mother come from?"


    "Maybe if we had another child then you wouldn''t be so possessive of our daughter and want to interfere in her life."


    "So you think I am interfering in our daughter''s life?"


    Taking a deep breath, she sighed, "Just take these outside and stop creating a scene."


    "I am creating a scene? You are the one who brought up your mom who always thought that I wasn''t good enough for you and now you are saying that I am creating a scene?" When she ignored him, he scrunched his brows, "How can you say that honey? I love you."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Judith chuckled, "You are unbelievable Harry. I love you too now go take these outside."


    ¡­.


    Ellie''s room.


    "I am telling you he hates me."


    Passing him the towel, Ellie sighed, "No he doesn''t, what makes you think that he hates you?"


    "Didn''t you see the look he gave me?"


    "He did not say anything which is actually a good sign because dad tends to speak up of things he doesn''t like." When he sighed and sat down on the edge of the bed feeling all dejected, she sat down in his lap and wrapped her arms around his neck. "You are just overthinking Sebastian, maybe dad doesn''t like you now but I am sure he doesn''t hate you either."


    "Am I supposed to feel better about that?"


    Running her fingers through the back of his hair, she smiled, "Why don''t we go down for lunch now and later I will make you feel better."


    Tightening his grip around her waist, he smiled, "Really? Now I feel a bit better."


    ¡­.


    During lunch.


    "Oh a vacation? Where are you kids going?" Adriana inquired.


    "We are going to Hawaii day after tomorrow and¡ª"


    "Day after tomorrow? You are just gonna stay here for two days?" Harry frowned.


    "Dad I''ll visit again next month, we already planned the trip beforehand and it will be so rude to cancel everything now," Ellie answered.


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting Harry off, Judith quickly said, "It''s completely alright honey, you kids should have fun in Hawaii."


    "This lasagna is really very delicious," Sebastian remarked.


    "Oh so you like it? I thought you would think our food was bland because you are used to eating from five star restaurants," Harry snapped.


    Noticing the awkward look on Sebastian''s face, Ellie quickly jumped for his rescue. "No dad, Seb doesn''t like eating out. In fact, he always cooks all his meals and his cooking is very simple and delicious. I cook sometimes too but he is the one who¡ª"


    "So you go to his place only to eat?" Harry inquired.


    "Actually¡ª"


    Placing his hand on Ellie''s thigh underneath the table, Sebastian stopped her. "Yes, I drop her off everyday."


    In order to make the atmosphere a bit light, Judith curiously inquired, "So Sebastian, who taught you cooking?"


    "My grandfather taught me a few of his recipes and I learnt the rest from our kitchen chef," he answered.


    "That is great, knowing a few culinary tricks is important and it also helps you save a lot of money," Judith stated.


    Sebastian nodded his head and smiled, "Yes but my recipes are nothing in comparison to yours, the kind of food El makes is so much better and flavorful but too bad she never tells the secret ingredients she uses."


    "That is a family secret," Harry stated.


    Ignoring her husband''s inappropriate behavior, Judith said, "Don''t worry about that, I will give you all the recipes. Afterall, you are also family now." Looking at Harry, she smiled, "Right Harry?"


    "Of course," he unwillingly uttered.


    ...


    Outside the guest room.


    "Why didn''t you let me tell him the truth?"


    "Honey, he already seems to be not so okay about the whole you dating me thing and to top that, you want to tell him that we are living together? Do you wanna make it worse?" Rubbing the side of her arm, Sebastian sighed, "Let''s give him some time."


    "I think we are just overthinking and he is also just pretending to hate you. Mom told me that he cleaned the guest room for you, he also changed the sheets and curtains all by himself," Ellie explained before entering the room.


    ¡­.


    As soon as they stepped into the room, Ellie widened her eyes in shock and Sebastian chuckled.


    Patting her shoulder, he sighed, "I told you that he hates me."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 224 - Disneyland

    Looking at the room, Ellie helplessly shook her head, "He acts so childish at times."


    Keeping his bag on the floor, Sebastian chuckled, "No it''s alright, I love Minnie mouse." Pointing towards the pink Minnie mouse print bedsheet and pillow cases, he inquired, "Did you use them when you were a kid?"


    "I think I was in middle school," she answered.


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, he ran his finger through the sheet. ''This is very soft." Looking at the curtains which had the same print, he chuckled, "Wow Minnie mouse curtains, how adorable."


    "You don''t have to be so happy about it, I''ll change it¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he stated, "Why would you do that? I like this way, Minnie Mouse is cute."


    "These are the¡ª" Widening her eyes in shock, Judith gasped, "Oh my God, how did this room suddenly turn into a disneyland?"


    "Well, I think we should ask dad how this miracle happened," Ellie stated.


    Just then Harry entered the room. "What is this noise about?"


    Glaring at him, Judith snapped, "I think we should be the one questioning you. How on earth did this happen?"


    Scrunching his brows, Harry innocently inquired, "What are you talking about honey? What happened? I cannot see anything properly without my glasses, let me get them from my room."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Judith sighed, "I am so sorry Sebastian, I had asked Harry to change the sheets but¡ª"


    "It''s alright, you don''t have to worry about it," Sebastian assured them.


    Just then Harry entered the room and gasped dramatically, "Oh God, how did this happen? Did I do this?" Ignoring Ellie and Judith''s intense glaring, he sighed, "I wasn''t wearing my glasses when I was changing the sheets and curtains so maybe I pulled out the wrong one."


    "So are you trying to tell me that you accidentally pulled out the old Minnie Mouse sheet and curtains which I had kept with the pile of clothes that were supposed to be donated?" Judith inquired.


    "Uh huh, that is what exactly happened." Shrugging his shoulders, Harry remarked, "What? Why are you staring at me? It''s just Minnie Mouse sheets, I am sure Sebastian loves it."


    "Yeah, it''s very soft and looks really very good," Sebastian exclaimed.


    "Oh no dear, I''ll change the sheet for you¡ª"


    Cutting Judith off, Sebastian insisted, "No please, you don''t have to take so much trouble, I''ll manage and to be honest, this is really very nice."


    "But¡ª"


    "Let it be mom, I''ll change it later."


    After getting Ellie''s assurance, Judith sighed, "Alright, you kids should rest for a while. El, make sure that Sebastian gets everything that he needs, okay?" When she nodded her head, Judith rolled her eyes at her husband and walked out of the room while Harry followed her behind.


    "Yeah so I think you dad doesn''t like me," Sebastian chuckled.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "I am sorry for this, he usually acts quite mature but¡ª"


    Grabbing her hand, he pulled her towards himself and made her sit on his lap, "It''s alright, you don''t have to be sorry or anything. I knew that things would be a bit out of place when I come here but I didn''t know that your dad will slam these cute Minnie Mouse sheets and curtains in my face."


    Smacking his shoulder, she chuckled, "Stop joking."


    Tightening her grip on her waist, he inquired, "So how are you gonna make sure that I get everything I need?"


    "Hmm you tell me, what do you need? Warm water, coffee or¡ª"


    "How about? Sweet kisses and warm cuddles? I need them so bad right now," he answered.


    Looking at the bed sheet, Ellie chuckled, "So you wanna cuddle in these sheets?"


    "Of course, why not? I am sure Minnie won''t mind."


    ¡­.


    Harry and Judith''s room.


    "That was a very sly move Harry, when are you actually gonna grow up?"


    "I have no idea what you are talking about."


    Crossing her arms in the front, Judith snapped, "You are professor, these kinds of sly tricks do not suit you."


    "I still have no idea what you are talking about," Harry denied before sitting on the edge of bed.


    "You are seriously unbelievable, did you think by using an old shabby bed sheet and curtains, Sebastian will run away?" When he did not say anything, Judith gasped, "Oh my God that is what you thought."


    Realizing that Judith has seen through his sly intentions, Harry decided to drop his pretense. "That guy owns a multinational company, there is no way he would stand such a thing. I just don''t want him to stay here, he is rich so can''t he just stay in a hotel or something?"


    "Why id it so difficult for you to accept the fact that he is your daughter''s boyfriend and they are happy together¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he stated, "They are rich people honey, their thinking and the way they live is completely different from ours. How sure are you that he is not just toying our daughter?"


    "I know that he is not." Walking towards her dad, Ellie explained, "I know that you are concerned about me dad but I know Sebastian, he is exactly how he carries himself. He is so much different than those spoiled rich men. He genuinely cares for me and I care for him too." Grabbing his hand, she continued, "I know you have your doubts about him but if you don''t give him a chance, how are things gonna work?"


    Tightening her grip around his hand, Ellie continued, "Sebastian is the most wonderful man I have ever met and I want you and mom to see how wonderful he is too. Can you please give him a chance? Please, for my sake?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Harry inquired, "Are you very serious about this guy? Like, marriage serious?"


    "Yes I am and Sebastian is very serious about us too, I am sure that he already has the whole wedding planned in his head," Ellie chuckled.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 225 - Boss boyfriend

    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Harry inquired, "Will the wedding happen here in Seattle?"


    "Well, there is time for that but I can assure you that Sebastian will agree to whatever you say," Ellie answered.


    "As if he has any other choice," he scoffed.


    "So should I take this as a yes? You will give Seb a chance, right?"


    Giving her a hug, he sighed, "Do I have any other choice?"


    "Of course you don''t," Judith chuckled before joining the family hug. "I like Sebastian already, he is really a great guy. Did you two do it already?"


    "Mom."


    "Judi, what is wrong with you?" Harry and Ellie exclaimed unanimously.


    Shrugging her shoulders, she chuckled, "What? I am just trying to be a modern mom, is that wrong?"


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "I can''t be a part of this conversation, I am going to make some coffee for Seb. Do you guys want some?"


    "Can''t he make his own coffee?" When Ellie gave him a look, Harry rephrased his sentence, "I mean, since he is so good in the kitchen, I thought he could make his own coffee too."


    "He makes very good coffee but he likes the way I make it more," she answered.


    Rubbing the sides of Ellie''s arm, Judith said, "You should go and make some coffee for Seb, your dad and I will have one later."


    After Ellie left, Judith wrapped her arms around Harry''s waist and smiled, "You melt like a candle in front of her and this is what I love about you."


    "Well, since she is so confident about the boss boyfriend then there must be something good about him," he answered.


    "In a way I am glad that we did not try for the second time, Ellie has always been more than enough for us," she stated.


    Breathing a sigh of relief, he remarked, "Thank you so much for disagreeing with your mom over something."


    "I have disagreed with her over many things in the past and marrying you was the biggest one," she chuckled.


    ¡­..


    Evening.


    "Ah look who is here." Giving Melissa a hug, Harry smiled, "I am seeing you after almost a year Mel and you have become much more beautiful than you already were."


    "Stop it uncle Harry, you always tease me like this," Melissa chuckled.


    "No I am serious, I think L.A is treating you quite well."


    Looking at Ellie who was standing right beside her father, Melissa grinned, "Well, L.A is also treating Ellie very well. I mean look at her, she is glowing."


    "That is true, L.A''s water is quite nice for my skin," Ellie answered.


    "L.A''s water or Sebastian''s apartment''s water," Melissa chuckled.


    Widening her eyes in shock when Ellie gave her deadly glares, she quickly changed the topic. "Uncle, you know Noah."


    "Yes of course, the handsome gentleman who stole our Melissa''s heart," Harry smiled.


    "It''s good to see you again uncle Harry, I bought gifts for you and aunty," Noah stated before passing Ellie the bag.


    Smiling at him, Harry remarked, "Two bribes in the same day, I hope the Seattle police won''t raid my house."


    "Dad¡ª"


    "What? I am just joking."


    Looking around, Melissa inquired, "Where is our big boss? Did uncle scare him away?"


    "He is in the kitchen with mom, they are making something special today," Ellie answered.


    "You kids hang around for a while, I will go and hide my second bribe somewhere safe."


    After Harry left, Melissa quickly inquired, "So how did it go? Did you tell them about¡ª" When Ellie nodded her head, she beamed in excitement, "Oh my God, tell me everything."


    "Mom took it pretty well and she really likes Sebastian so she wasn''t a problem but dad kinda didn''t like it," Ellie explained.


    "Okay, that doesn''t sound so good."


    Ellie nodded her head and added, "but later I had a talk with him and I think I managed to convince him to give Seb a chance."


    "Okay so there is still a very bright hope." Slumping on the couch, she sighed, "That is some good news."


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie inquired, "Why? Did you hear any kind of bad news?"


    "Uh huh, Ava and Calvin are having a very intense fight and Brandon told us that it''s pretty ugly," Melissa answered.


    ¡­..


    Los Angeles.


    Calvin''s apartment.


    "Will you at least talk to her? Don''t jump into a conclusion¡ª"


    Cutting Brandon off, Calvin snapped, "There is nothing to talk Brandon, do you think she would have talked to me if I had done something similar?"


    Helplessly shaking his head, Brandon sighed, "I know you are pretty bummed about it, even I was very bummed and upset when I saw Char with some guy in the cafe but later I found out that it was nothing like that."


    "Ava is my girlfriend but now almost everyone thinks she is some other guy''s fiancee, what do you expect me to do? Congratulate her? Wish her all the best?" he furmed.


    "I am sure that there is more to it man and the only way to find out is to talk to her without shouting or jumping into a conclusion," Brandon explained.


    Taking a deep breath, Calvin remarked, "I don''t feel like doing anything at the moment, I just want to be all by myself right now."


    "But¡ª" Brandon stopped midway when he saw Ava and Charlotte coming out of the room.


    Sitting beside Calvin, Ava placed her hand on his thigh. "Calvin I¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he mockingly scoffed, "So are you here to dump me? Well, since you already have a fiance and almost half of L.A knows about it, I don''t think you need a boyfriend anymore."


    "I had no idea they had planned of this and¡ª"


    "You never have any idea about anything Ava, everything just happens and you are the victim," he fumed.


    "I swear, I think it was mom¡ª"


    Jerking her hands off, he snapped, "Yes your mom, you and your mom are making me go crazy. Everything that happens is either your fault or something that your mom did even though she isn''t physically present here. You know what, you and your mom can go to hell because now I don''t give a f.u.c.k about what you or she thinks."


    Without waiting for her reply, he dashed out of the apartment.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 226 - Super mad

    "Okay now that was super rude," Charlotte stated while glaring at the door.


    Grabbing a fist full of her hair with both her hands, Ava groaned, "It''s all my fault."


    "Why did you go there anyway?" Brandon inquired.


    "That bastard told me he wanted to end everything because it is creating problems for him as well so I just¡ª"


    "So you believed him and agreed to have coffee with him?" When Ava sighed, Brandon snapped, "What is with you women and having coffee with other men? Oh wait, how could I forget? You people are allowed to have coffee with anyone you feel like because you are Homo Sapiens with a v.a.g.i.n.a. But human''s with a p.e.n.i.s can''t because you women think that we are probably f.u.c.k.i.n.g the woman we are having a cup of expresso with. How is that even fair?"


    Scrunching her brows, Charlotte frowned, "Will you stop judging us?"


    "Okay, now why are you taking her side?" Taking a pause, he snapped again, "Oh wait because you did the same thing."


    Left with no other choice, Charlotte just rolled her eyes at her cranky boyfriend and decided to pay full attention to Ava who was still stressed. "Don''t worry, Calvin will understand."


    "No he won''t, he is very mad. Didn''t you see how red his face and arms were? That happens only when he is super mad," Ava stated.


    "Of course he is mad Ava, what else do you expect him to be? Happy?" Taking out his phone, Brandon explained, "Did you even check the news? Your pictures with that guy are all over the place, he must have felt awful after reading it. How could you not see it coming?"


    "I seriously did not. How the hell am I supposed to know that his mother would also be present and they would also invite the press over? I thought Nathan seriously just wanted to talk to me about everything that is happening meaninglessly. I was tricked okay? Even I did not want anything like this to happen. Do you think I like seeing him this mad?"


    While Ava was shopping for their Hawaii vacation at the mall, Nathan suddenly approached her. He told her they should talk and solve the entire situation about them being engaged. He also told her that he wasn''t liking anything of it and wanted to clear a few things off.


    Ava knew how much Calvin hated it when anyone called Nathan her fiance. Thinking that talking would really help, she agreed to have coffee with him but decided to tell Calvin about it later because she knew he wouldn''t like the whole idea. But who would have thought that was the biggest mistake she had ever met.


    As they were having coffee, Nathan''s mother suddenly arrived and started giving her gifts. Before she could do anything, a few people approached them and started clicking pictures of her along with Nath and his mother. Everything happened so quickly and she was so shocked that she could barely do anything. Later when she lashed out at Nathan, he told her that it was Rebecca''s idea for publicizing their relationship. This made Ava really very mad and she was about to lash out at her mother when she realized that the pictures were already all over the articles along with their company names.


    She wanted to explain what had exactly happened to Clavin but the latter was too angry and bummed to listen to her.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Brandon sighed, "You do realize that if you had told Cal about the meeting, nothing of this sort would have happened. And how could you trust that Nathan guy?"


    "I agree with Bran on that, that was a stupid move. Guys are jerks, you can''t trust everyone you see or meet," Charlotte added.


    "Exactly, men are jerks and you have no idea how mean we people are," Brandon added.


    "I know men are jerks now can we please stop thinking about other things and focus on my boyfriend. If I don''t make things right, I might have to go on a trip with swollen eyes and with snort all over my face," Ava stated.


    Shrugging his shoulders, Brandon chuckled, "Well, at least you have a fiance." When both of them glared at him, he awkwardly cleared his throat.


    "Babe, it''s not the right time to joke," Charlotte snapped.


    "Okay I have an idea, why don''t you just find and kiss him the moment to see him without caring where you are. I am telling you, guys love random kisses initiated by their woman. I am sure Calvin''s heart is going to melt and his d.i.c.k is going to turn hard," Brandon suggested.


    Thinking for a while, Ava inquired, "What if he pushes me away? Or shouts at me in front of everyone?"


    "He will not."


    "And if he does, just kiss him harder or just drag him home and have s.e.x," Charlotte added.


    "Okay, I can do that." Taking a deep breath, Ava got up. "I know exactly where he goes when he is upset. There is this club in the fifth block, he always goes there to grab a couple of drinks when he is upset."


    "You wanna go alone? I can accompany you if you¡ª"


    Cutting Charlotte off, she answered, "No, it''s alright. I think it''s best if I go alone." Without wasting any time, she rushed towards her bedroom to grab her bag before walking out of the apartment.


    After she left, Brandon wrapped his arms around Charlotte''s waist. "So about that tip you just gave Ava¡ª"


    "What tip?"


    "That kissing harder or dragging him home and having s.e.x with him, is that applicable if I am mad at you?" he inquired.


    Pursing her lips, she hooked her arms around his neck, "Well, that depends on how mad you are."


    "I am very very very mad, I am so mad that I don''t wanna talk to you," he grinned.


    Helplessly shaking her head, she chuckled, "Well then it''s definitely applicable."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 227 - Mad or jealous

    Club.


    Sitting near the bar counter with a huge frown on his face, Calvin was impatiently tapping his finger on the whiskey glass. He didn''t like shouting at Ava but he was super mad at the moment and could barely think straight. He knew whatever had happened wasn''t entirely her fault but the fact that she had lied to him made him mad and when he saw Nathan and Ava''s pictures together, he became more mad.


    Maybe nothing of this sort would have happened if she had told him that Nathan had invited her over coffee. He would have definitely not let her take such a stupid step if she had told him about it before hand. Even though he knew she did not feel anything for Nathan and had nothing to do with him, how could he be okay with his girlfriend being called someone else''s fiancee? How would anyone be okay with such an arrangement?


    "Well look who is here." Helplessly shaking her head, Steffi chuckled, "It''s the great Calvin Lewis all heartbroken in the bar again."


    Ignoring her, Clavin asked the bartender to serve him another drink.


    "This is actually so sad, you turned me down in your office that day and made me feel miserable and now here you are." Pausing for a while, she inquired, "So how does it feel being turned down?"


    "What do you want Steffi?"


    Shrugging her shoulder, she sighed, "Nothing, I am just trying to make you feel more miserable." Placing her hand on his, she added, "And maybe planning to make you feel more comfortable."


    Scrunching his brows, he jerked her hand off his and walked away without saying anything.


    "So it''s true, you are in love with her." Helplessly shaking her head, Steffi chuckled, "This was seriously the last thing I had expected, you falling in love." Walking towards him, she smiled, "Ava is really a very lucky girl but I wonder what is so great in her that she managed to capture your heart."


    "She is great in all ways, don''t compare her with anyone," Calvin stated.


    "Geez man I am not comparing, just saying that she is lucky."


    "Of course she is and you know what? I am more lucky because I found her," he exclaimed.


    Raising her brows, she inquired, "Are you sure? I saw the pictures and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "That was just a misunderstanding and it''s nothing like that."


    Crossing her arms in the front, Steffi sighed, "If you know it''s nothing like that and it''s also a misunderstanding then what on Earth are you doing here? Why aren''t you with her?"


    When Calvin scrunched his brows, she added, "What is the point leaving her alone and coming here for a drink? Shouldn''t you be telling her that everything is going to be and you are with her instead of telling me about it? Geez Cal, don''t be such a baby."


    "I will once I am done being mad," he stated.


    "Mad or jealous?" When he did not say anything, she chuckled, "Anyone can say that you are more jealous than mad."


    "I¡ª" Calvin stopped midway when he saw Ava standing behind Steffi.


    Walking towards him, she held her both her ears with her hand. "I am sorry."


    Looking at Steffi who was standing there with a huge grin on her face, Calvin frowned before looking at Ava. "Did you send her to unmad me?"


    "What? What the hell is unmad? That is not even a word." Without waiting for his reply, Steffi answered, "I met Ava at the entrance, I saw the pictures earlier and I was curious so she told me about it."


    Before Calvin could say anything, Ava grabbed his hand and threw herself at him. "I am sorry I know it''s my fault, I should have told you about it beforehand. I promise I won''t hide anything from you in the future, I will tell you each and everything."


    Pulling away, she added, "I will also change my relationship status on Facebook and mention your name in my bio, I will also tag you in all my pictures and upload lots of romantic pictures of you. I will do everything to ask me to but please don''t be mad anymore, I cannot stand it when you shout at me or worse, you don''t talk to me at all."


    She then started crying out loud. "And I freak out and my heart aches when you leave the house in anger and bang the door shut." Throwing her hand in her mouth, she yelped, "You are scary when you are mad."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Calvin sighed, "Come here." Pulling her into his embrace, he kissed the top of her. "Don''t cry now, do you wanna go to Hawaii with swollen red eyes?" When Ava started crying harder, he frowned, "Babe, why are you crying again? I am not mad anymore."


    "I thought I have to go to Hawaii on my own, the mere thought was so sad and made me feel miserable," she squeaked.


    "You don''t have to go alone, I will be there with you Ava," he assured her before hugging her tighter.


    After a good minute of warm hug, she pulled away and instructed, "You have to tell me sorry too because you said mean things to me and also about my mom before leaving the house."


    "I am sorry, I shouldn''t have said. I do give a f.u.c.k about what you and your mom or anyone of your other family members say. I just lost my cool after seeing those photographs, I¡ª" Tightening her grip on her waist, he stopped midway and closed his eyes when she pressed her lips against his. The kiss was sudden and out of nowhere but who was he to complain. Though he knew that there were many people around them but he couldn''t careless.


    Taking out her phone, Steffi took several pictures of them from every possible angle where their faces would be distinct enough.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 228 - Getting along

    Pulling away, Ava rested her forehead against his. "Is the kiss enough to unmad you or do you want me to drag you home and have s.e.x?"


    "Uh huh, I guess I need some of that to get over everything that has happened today," Calvin answered.


    "Geez stop before I puke guys." Walking towards them she added, "I have forwarded the pictures in your number."


    "Thank you so much girl, I owe you this one." Giving her a hug, Ava added, "Call me anytime if you need any kind of help."


    "I surely will." Glancing at the watch, Steffi sighed, "Okay, now I gotta leave. I will catch up with you two love birds later."


    After she left, Calvin inquired, "Now what pictures was she talking about?"


    "You will see, "Ava answered.


    ¡­..


    Seattle.


    "Okay, just got off the phone with Brandon. Everything is normal between the two of them now and they are all lovey dovey again," Noah informed Ellie and Melissa.


    Breathing a sigh of relief, Ellie exclaimed, "Thank God."


    "Did he tell you what exactly happened between the two of them?" Melissa inquired.


    "Babe didn''t you check the link I sent you? It''s all over the place." Without waiting for her reply, Noah opened the link and showed Ellie and Melissa the photo''s.


    Looking at the pictures of Nathan and Ava together, Ellie widened her eyes in shock. "Oh God, how did this happen?"


    "Well, according to Ava she was tricked by Nathan but that Nathan guy told her it was aunt Rebecca''s idea of making their relationship officially public," Noah explained.


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie inquired, "Did Ava know about this arrangement?"


    "Of course she didn''t. Rebecca has been trying to match Ava and Nathan for the longest time because Nathan is her friend''s son but Ava has always been against it," Melissa answered.


    "If Ava doesn''t want to be with that guy then why is she forcing her? How is she going to be happy in a forced relationship?" Though she hadn''t met Rebecca yet except for the one time when she had just seen her, Ellie could already feel that she would definitely not be easy to deal with. She hated people who tried to force their decisions on someone else even after knowing that the other person was not interested in that arrangement. She always maintained a nice distance with them but with Rebacca, did she really have a choice?


    She was Sebastian''s mother, there was no way she could avoid her by any means. No matter how much she hated the way Rebecca liked getting things done or the way she treated her kids, she had to deal with her.


    "She is like that, she likes getting things done her way eithiyt giving a f.u.c.k about what other think or feel about it," Melissa scoffed.


    "What about Calvin then? I mean she shouldn''t have any problem with Calvin right? He is from their social background and Cal is a really nice guy," Ellie stated.


    "Yeah but that is never gonna happen, I mean it will happen but not with Rebecca''s approval," Melissa answered.


    "But why? I understand why she would have a problem with me but why Calvin?" she frowned.


    "Calvin''s mother and aunt Rebecca, they really don''t get along. No let me scratch that, it''s aunt Rebecca who doesn''t get along with Cal''s mom. It''s really very complicated and something beyond my understanding," Noah sighed.


    Slumping on the couch, Ellie groaned in frustration before clutching her hair. "Why do I feel like Cal and I are riding the same boat with this big block of ice called Rebecca Stewart which is standing right in the middle of the sea?"


    "Uh huh but be careful because you don''t wanna be the next Titanic," Melissa chuckled.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Noah explained, "Honestly speaking and this is just one of my theories, I however have no intentions of scaring the shit of you or making you nervous." Without waiting for her reply, he continued., "I think you are at a tighter spot than Calvin because you know, Ava has always been very rebellious and I don''t think aunt Rebecca thinks she will follow her arrangement but with Sebastian it''s different. She is definitely not gonna make it easy for anyone who will marry him, especially the woman he chooses himself."


    Ellie sighed and nodded her head, "Hmm I know that and trust me, I am super nervous to meet her too but what can I do if she doesn''t like me? I can force her, right?"


    "Of course, just play your part and try to be nice to her but if she starts making things difficult. Just don''t give a shit about her," Melissa advised.


    "Everything will be so perfect if things went smoothly with his mother as well, I just don''t want things to get complicated."


    "Complicated? What will get complicated?" Walking towards them, Sebastian sat beside Ellie. "What are you guys talking about?"


    "Just random things, did you finish helping mom?" Ellie inquired.


    Sebastian nodded his head and beamed, "Your mom is an amazing cook, no wonder you are so good. She just taught me the perfect way to boil an egg, she is really amazing."


    Grinning from ear to ear, Noah chuckled, "Seems like someone is getting along with his future mother-in-law."


    "Aunt Judi is really sweet and easy to get along, I think your real obstacle is uncle Harry," Melissa murmured.


    Sebastian sighed and helplessly shook his head. "I know but I don''t think he is that fond of me."


    "How bad is it?" Noah inquired.


    "He made the guest room look like a Disneyland."


    Closing his eyes, Noah hissed, "Okay, that sounds bad."


    "Wait what? Disneyland?" Melissa chuckled.


    "He used my old Minnie mouse sheets, pillowcases and curtains for the guestroom when mom asked him to change the sheets," Ellie answered.


    Bursting into a laughter, Melissa exclaimed, "Oh God, please tell me you are joking El."


    "No I am not, he seriously did that," she chuckled.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 229 - Salted Coffee

    Placing his hand on his chest, Noah sighed, "I feel like my father-in-law is God, he never made things difficult for me."


    "Uh huh, apart from the time when he served him settled coffee," Melissa chuckled.


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie chuckled. "Wait what? Salted coffee? When did that happen?"


    Shrugging his shoulder, Noah explained, "I still think that was a mistake and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Melissa smacked his shoulder, "No it wasn''t, he deliberately served you a salted coffee."


    "Hold on a sec, salted coffee is worse than Minnie mouse sheets right?" When Ellie nodded her head, Sebastian sighed, "Okay, I feel a little relieved now." Rubbing his hands in excitement, he inquired, "Quick tell me how did you turn that salted coffee into a forever sweet one?"


    "Well firstly, I did not complain and drank the entire coffee," Noah answered.


    Scrunching her face, Ellie groaned, ??Yicks, that doesn''t sound good. How salted was it?"


    "I thought he had used the seawater to make it. The coffee to salt ratio of definite 1:4. But well, I drank it without complaining."


    "We had no idea the coffee was salted until dad asked him not to drink it. He then made a new one for him," Melissa added.


    Grinning from ear to ear, Noah proudly stated, "And that second coffee was a super sweet one. So you see, this is how I went from salty to sweet."


    Thinking for a while, Sebastian inquired, "Do you think he will like me too if I sleep in those Minnie mouse sheets?"


    "Stop being silly Seb, I am changing it after dinner," Ellie stated.


    "Ah why would you do that? This actually might be my last chance of impressing your dad," he explained.


    Giving him a weird look, she frowned, "What makes you think that sleeping in my old middle school sheets will help you in impressing my dad?"


    "There is no proof but it''s worth a try." When Ellie did not look convinced, he placed his head on her shoulder. "Please, we can at least try."


    Rolling her eyes, Ellie smacked his arm, "You always do this, you know I cannot say no to that face of yours."


    "I love you."


    "Aww you guys are so cute." Looking around, Melissa whispered, "So, who is sneaking into whose room tonight?"


    "W-We haven''t thought about that yet," Ellie answered.


    "We are just gonna sleep in our respective rooms I guess," he added.


    "Wow, you too are really strong. We need our daily night cuddles so after everyone is asleep, I will sneak into the guest room and come back to my room before mom wakes up," Melissa stated.


    "That sounds nice but I don''t think we are gonna take that risk." When Ellie gave him a meaningful look, Sebastian widened his eyes in shock and shook his head, "No babe, what if someone finds out?"


    "Come on Seb, it''s gonna be fun and no one will find out, we will be careful," she assured him.


    "Your dad already isn''t very fond of me, on top of that if he sees you sneaking in or leaving my room then¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she rolled her eyes, "Come on Seb, stop being such a baby."


    "Do they know you both are living together?" Noah inquired.


    Glaring at Seb, Ellie answered, "Well, all thanks to our dear boss who stopped me from telling me the truth."


    "I just didn''t want to give her father a heart attack. I am telling you, you guys should have seen the look he gave me when she told him about our relationship. He would have thrown me out of the house." Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian sighed. He felt so stressed whenever he thought about Harry.


    "Oh God, that look." Laughing out loud, Noah added, "You guys have no ideas how rare this look is, you don''t see it often. It''s very rare for Sebastian to feel super stressed and scared around someone, uncle Harry makes me nervous."


    "Don''t worry Seb, uncle Harry doesn''t bite," Melissa chuckled.


    "What do you know?" Seb muttered.


    ¡­.


    Florida.


    Siasco Hotel.


    Room no: 678


    "Kids are all grown up Rebecca, let them do what they want," Arthur Stewart stated.


    Folding their clothes, Rebecca retorted, "Kids will always be kids and they are our kids Arthur, if they are taking any wrong step we need to correct them."


    Scrunching his brows, he snapped, "What wrong step? We have played out part well now it''s their responsibility to take care of their lives. We have played our part as parents, Sebastian and Ava are capable of handling things and taking their own decisions."


    "But¡ª"


    "Enough, I don''t want to discuss this anymore. We are leaving for San Francisco tomorrow morning and not Los Angeles," he firmly declared.


    "But Arthur, he is rumoured to be dating his assistant," she retorted.


    "Yeah so? Your son has finally shown some interest in a woman, be thankful that he isn''t interested in men. Who would have helped us carry our family name forward if our only son would have turned out to be..." Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "We would have to rely on Noah to keep the family name going despite having a handsome young son," Arthur scoffed.


    Balling her hand into a fist, she snapped, "But she is an ordinary employee of our company, she is an¡ª"


    Cutting her of, he remarked, "An assistant, I know and I have heard of this quite a number of times."


    "How can you be okay with such an disgraceful arrangement?" she retorted.


    "Sam married his assistant and things worked fine for them. They are happily married for years now and have a lovely son. So it doesn''t sound that bad, does it?"


    Gritting his teeth, Rebecca fumed, "Doesn''t this affect you at all? How can you talk of it like it''s nothing?"


    "All I care about is the company, the profits have increased tremendously over the months which means that the boys are working hard. The rate at which the company is moving, we don''t need any external help anymore. In fact, if things go at this rate for a couple of months, I think people will come to us for help," Arthur proudly exclaimed.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 230 - True colors

    "How can you be so casual about it Arthur? We need to¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Arthur snapped, "This is not something that involves us or something that needs our attention. If Sebastian decided to date that girl then it means she is special in some way or the other, he will definitely not date just anyone. Who will know better than you how your son is. There is a reason why he never showed any kind of interest in any women you tried to hook him up with, Seb is different and he has always been like that."


    "But¡ª"


    "Now stop fussing over it and take some rest, you are thinking way too much these days," Arthur stated leaving no room for any kind of argument.


    Left with no other choice, Rebecca grumpily sat down on the edge of the bed without saying anything. She would definitely not let this matter off so easily, even if Arthur did not care about it, she did.


    ¡­.


    Seattle.


    Harry and Judith''s place.


    Backyard.


    "What are you so grumpy about man? What happened?" Jeremy, Melissa''s father inquired.


    "It''s nothing, Ellie just brought her boyfriend home so¡ª"


    "Oh yes, I heard about it and I was about to call you but I forgot." Looking around, Jeremy instructed, "Quick, open the door and let me in."


    Nodding his head, Harry made his way towards the fence door which connected the two houses. "Look, I know you will probably tell me that he is a good guy yada yada yada¡­.but I don''t wanna hear that." Unlocking the door, he added, "I am just very confused."


    "Why confused?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he sighed, "Ellie thinks he is the best guy she can ever be with and she also wants me to give that guy a chance which I want to, I really do but the thing is I need some kind of surety. I need to make sure that my daughter is safe with him."


    "Well, judging from the family he comes from, you can be sure that he isn''t some kind of a rapist or drug dealer. He is a decent man with a really nice decent behaviour just like Noah." Helplessly shaking his head, Jeremy sighed, "You are my best friend Harry so I am not going to lie to you, I had similar thoughts about Noah when Mel first brought him home. She told me he is a nice guy but how am I supposed to convince the father inside me that he is really one, right? It wasn''t easy."


    "Okay, what did you do then?" Harry curiously inquired.


    "I am coming to that." After making sure no one was around, Jeremy started explaining, "So what happened is, Melissa did not tell me about Noah at first¡ªI mean, I knew he was the boss and she worked under him but I had no idea about the relationship. When she brought home and introduced him as her boyfriend, of course I was shocked and very reluctant to accept him but he was really very nice and sweet. Trust me mate, I thought he was just doing some kind of acting to impress me so in order to test him, I did the salted coffee experiment which I read online."


    Scrunching his brows, Harry curiously inquired, "What salted coffee experiment?"


    "Well, I made a very salted coffee for him to see if he gets mad or starts throwing a fit because he had a really awful coffee in the morning. Now you know how important morning coffee is for a lot of people so I wanted to see if his true colours would shine out if I did that," Jeremy further explained.


    "What happened after that? Did he throw a fit?"


    "Of course he didn''t, in fact he kept drinking it like it was nothing and kept acting normal in front of Melissa. I felt bad and guilty later so I stopped him from finishing the whole thing."


    Thinking for a while, Harry inquired, "So are you suggesting that I should do the same thing? Make him a salted coffee?"


    Shaking his head, Jeremy answered, "No, I am just telling you what I did but you can always try something similar. But don''t tell anyone that I told you this, okay?"


    "Of course not Jerry, why would I?"


    ¡­.


    At night.


    11:00 pm.


    Guest room.


    "Will you stop being such a baby? If I am okay with it, why are you so scared?"


    "But¡ª"


    Placing her hand on her waist, Ellie narrowed her eyes, "So are you trying to tell me you don''t want cuddles? You wanna sleep all by yourself and you don''t need me anymore?"


    "What? When did I say that?" Sebastian frowned.


    Grabbing her pillow, she puffed her cheeks, "Fine, I will go in my room and you can take all the room you want. After we go back, I''ll move back to my old apartment with Boji and Bojo." Without waiting for his reply, she started walking out of the room.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he quickly grabbed her hand. "You know I won''t let you do that."


    "Let me do it?" Slapping his hand away, she snapped, "FYI Sebastian Stewart but I am the boss at home so your office bossiness is not gonna work here."


    "Firstly, I am never bossy with you even when we are in the office. In fact, you are the one who keeps scolding me¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she retorted, "It''s because you don''t listen, like right now you are not listening to me." Raising her brows, she added, "Or maybe you like Minnie so much that you wanna spend some quality time with her."


    "Doesn''t she already have a boyfriend?" he chuckled.


    Rolling her eyes at him, she grumpily made her way towards the bed. "If you don''t wanna join me then go sleep in my room all by yourself."


    Lying beside her, he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer. "Why would I sleep there all alone?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 231 - Roast

    "You should ask yourself that, how am I supposed to know?" Turning towards him, Ellie added, "I know you are worried about dad but don''t worry, I think he likes you already."


    "About that, don''t you think it was a bit strange?" he inquired.


    "What is strange?"


    "The way your father behaved, don''t you think it''s strange?" Without waiting for her reply, he explained further, "Like he seemed to be really very reluctant about me in the morning but now¡ª"


    Snuggling closer, she sighed, "He was placing food in your plate honey, that is a good sign."


    Caressing her back, he nodded his head, "Uh huh, pigs are fed too before they are chopped and turned into a delicious roast."


    "Babe, are you trying to say that my dad will murder you and then eat you up?" Placing her chin on his chest, she chuckled. "Hmm Sebastian roast doesn''t sound that bad."


    "Seriously, are you planning to support me or make me more nervous?"


    "You are just overthinking Seb, everything is good and I think dad has started loving you. Now all you have to do is cuddle and make me feel warm," she stated.


    Kissing the top of her head, he pulled her closer before covering both of them with the comforter. "El, why do you always threaten me like that?"


    "I never threaten you," she retorted.


    "You just did and you always do. What is it with you leaving our place and moving to your old apartment with Bojo and Boji?" he frowned.


    Looking at him, she chuckled, "Because I know how precious we are to you and there is no way you would let us leave." Shrugging her shoulder, she added, "Well, it''s also fun doing that because you tend to listen."


    "I always listen to you, don''t I?"


    "Yes you do Sebastian now let me sleep." Snuggling closer, she instructed, "Sleep early and don''t even think of working after I am asleep."


    "Work? How am I supposed to do that? I don''t have files or¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "What makes you think I did not see the laptop that you have secretly packed? You are on vacation, it''s time to relax and sleep more."


    Left with no other choice, he sighed and nodded his head. "Okay, I''ll listen to you."


    ¡­.


    Next morning


    8:00 am


    Ellie''s room.


    "You are up early honey, why don''t you sleep more?" Harry inquired.


    "It''s okay dad, I wake up early now-a-days," she answered.


    Raising his brows, he asked, "Early? Why? Do you have to make breakfast for Mr Boss?"


    Vigorously shaking her head, she chuckled, "No, Sebastian makes breakfast for both of us in the morning." When Harry gave her a confused look, she quickly added, "A-And he brings it over to my place or directly in the office."


    "I see, so he wakes up early in the morning?"


    "He is an early bird and it''s really very rare for him to sleep for a long time." Glancing at the watch, she added, "I will go and wake him up."


    "Bring him down after that, I am making coffee for everyone. I guess I can make an extra cup for him as well," Harry stated.


    Giving her dad a hug, Ellie smiled, "Thanks dad, I love you."


    Patting her head, Harry was about to leave again when she called him out again. "Dad please add only half tablespoon sugar for Seb, he doesn''t really like sweet things, especially sweet coffee."


    Raising his brows, he thought for awhile and smiled, "Of course, I will remember that."


    After he left, Ellie quickly rushed towards the guest room. She left the room early in the morning after Sebastian woke her up. She was planning to take another nap but decided not to.


    ¡­.


    Inside the guest room.


    When she saw Sebastian peacefully sleeping, she smiled and made her way towards him. Sitting right beside him, she gently caressed his face. It was very rare for him to sleep this late as he was always either working or thinking about it. Though his workaholic habits were not intense like before but he still overworked himself at times. He would pull out all nighters some time after she is fell asleep


    This is also one of the reasons why she agreed to go on vacation, she wanted Sebasian to relax and stay away from work for some time.


    Slowly lifting his arm, she slowly lied down beside him and placed his hand on her waist.


    Just then, Sebastian suddenly kissed her nape and murmured, "Good morning."


    "Good morning Mr Boss, it''s almost coffee time so you need to wake up." Squeezing his cheeks, she chuckled, "Your morning face is so cute."


    Burying his face on her neck, he inquired, "What time is it?"


    "It''s almost 8:30 and dad is making coffee for all of us," she answered.


    Scrunching his brows, he quickly got up. "Why didn''t you wake me up?"


    "You were looking so handsome and peaceful while sleeping, I didn''t have a heart to wake you up," he answered.


    Without wasting any time, he got down from the bed. "I''ll quickly freshen."


    "Seb, aren''t you forgetting something?"


    "Forgetting what? Was I supposed to do something?" he inquired.


    "Nevermind, go freshen up fast," she sighed.


    "I''ll be back in a minute."


    ¡­..


    Downstairs.


    Inside the kitchen.


    "So you are making coffee for Sebastian as well?" Judith curiously inquired.


    "Uh huh, making coffee for everyone so I thought it would be rude if I didn''t make one for him. Ellie would surely feel bad about it," Harry answered.


    Raising her brows, she snapped, "Okay, what are you trying to do?"


    "What? Me? I am trying to do nothing."


    "Oh come on Harry, we have been married for more than twenty-eight years now and I know inside out," she retorted.


    Scrunching his brows, Harry remarked, "You have a problem when I don''t be nice to him and you also have doubts when I try to be nice to him. What am I supposed to do? No, you tell me, am I supposed to be nice to him or not?"


    ¡­.

 Chapter 232 - Extra sweet?

    "Of course you have to be nice to him, he is your daughter''s boyfriend."


    "Uh huh I am being nice and making coffee for him," Harry smiled.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Judith sighed, "The kids are leaving tomorrow so can you please not do anything weird and spoil their mood?"


    "Honey, do you not trust me anymore? When I said I won''t do anything it means that I won''t, why are you being so suspicious?"


    "Alright I am sorry." Giving him a peck on his cheeks, she smiled, "Make a good coffee for him, okay?"


    "Of course, I am gonna make the best coffee for him," he grinned.


    ¡­..


    Living room.


    "Good morning mom." Looking around, Ellie inquired, "Where is dad?"


    "He is in the kitchen, making coffee for us all. Where is Sebastian?"


    "We are taking Seb and Noah for some sightseeing so he is getting ready. Mel also needs to buy a few things for the trip so we will also hit the mall later in the afternoon," she informed.


    "That is nice, you kids should have fun," Judith smiled.


    Just then, Sebastian came down and Harry also stepped out of the kitchen.


    "Here is everyone''s coffee," Harry remarked before keeping the tray on the table.


    Wrapping her arms around Sebastian''s, Ellie smiled, "You are right on time Seb, dad made coffee for us all."


    Passing Sebastian a cup of coffee which was especially made for him, Harry inquired, "Less Sugar?"


    Taking the cup, he nodded his head, "Thank you sir."


    "Seb, dad doesn''t like coffee, he is more of a tea person but he makes very good coffee," Ellie stated before taking a sip of her coffee.


    "I hope you like it," Harry remarked.


    Smiling at him, Sebastian took a sip of it hoping to start his day with a cup of perfect coffee but little did he know things would turn out to be very different. The moment the extra sweet coffee touched the tip of his tongue, his entire body shivered. It was so sweet that he could barely taste the coffee and it instantly gave him a headache.


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie sighed, "Dad, did you not add sugar in my coffee?"


    "Yes I did honey, you can add more if you want too," Harry answered.


    Looking at Sebastian, Ellie inquired, "Seb, do you want more sugar too?"


    Tapping his finger on the cup, he vigorously shook his head, "I think I am okay."


    "Okay, I''ll be back in a second."


    After Ellie left, Sebastian sat down right across Harry who was enjoying his cup of tea with a normal expression on his face.


    "Mom, where is the sugar?" Ellie inquired.


    "It''s where we usually keep it," Judith answered.


    Waving the empty sugar container at her mom, she added, "It''s empty."


    Scrunching her brows, Judith muttered, "That is strange, I just opened a new packet yesterday."


    "Honey, why don''t you just take out a new packet from the top shelf?" Harry suggested.


    "Seb."


    "Hmmm."


    Raising her brows, she added, "Top shelf."


    Keeping the cup on the table, he followed her in without saying anything.


    ¡­.


    Inside the kitchen.


    "Isn''t it great? I think he likes you already," Ellie beamed.


    "Uh huh, I think he likes me way too much," Sebastian sighed before taking out the sugar packet.


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she smiled, "He pretends to be strict but he is actually a sweetheart and how can anyone not love you? I mean, of course they can''t love you like I do but still."


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he smiled, "Nobody can love me like you do."


    Pushing him away, she chuckled, "Okay Mr Stewart, we are in the kitchen and my parents are sitting right outside." Grabbing the packet from his hand, she added, "And we have a cup of coffee to finish."


    "Of course, how can I forget?" Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed. How can he forget about the extra sweet sugar syrup which had no hint of coffee in it? The mere thought of finishing the entire mug gave him shivers and made his throat dry.


    ¡­.


    Living room.


    As Sebastian was forcing himself to finish the cup of the coffee while keeping a very neutral expression, Harry inquired, "So Sebastian, do you like the coffee?"


    Clearing his throat, he gave him a weak smile, "It''s really very good."


    "That is great because everytime you come here with Ellie, I will make the exact same cup of coffee for you," Harry stated.


    "I would drink it every time with great pleasure," Sebastian smiled before taking a sip.


    For Ellie and Judith, it was a very normal conversation and a progress in Sebastian and Harry''s relationship but little did they know about the hidden meaning behind the conversation.


    ¡­..


    Park.


    "Geez man, I am so sorry," Noah sighed.


    "I am telling you, Ellie''s dad hates me," Sebastian stated.


    Shrugging his shoulders, Noah helplessly shook his head. "Well, at least Melissa''s father stopped me from drinking the entire cup." Pausing for a while, he inquired, "How sweet was it?"


    "It was so sweet that if you cut my finger, sugar crystals will fall down." Pinching the bridge of his nose, Sebastian sighed, "My mouth and tongue feels like a beehive dripping with honey. When I was drinking that coffee, I would feel my veins popping out."


    "Okay that sounds very bad and I am so glad Melissa''s dad is not so heartless," Noah remarked.


    "And then he told me he would make the same cup of coffee every time I visit them with El. I am telling you, he is trying to kill me with all the sweetness," he snapped.


    Patting his shoulder, Noah sighed, "There is nothing you can do but endure it, I am sure things are gonna be okay in the future." Keeping quiet for quite some time, he inquired, "By the way, did you check the news?"


    "No, Ellie won''t even let me touch my phone. Why?" Sebastian inquired.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 233 - Online blessing

    "Nothing, I was just asking randomly. No specific reason," Noah quickly exclaimed before changing the topic. "W-We got the Felica project, that is the good news."


    "We did? That is great news," Sebastian beamed.


    "What good news?" Melissa inquired.


    Sitting beside Sebastian, Ellie smiled, "Share it with us as well."


    "Noah just told me we got the Felica project," Sebastian answered.


    "That is great news, congratulations you guys." Giving Sebastian a hug, she added, "I knew you guys would crack the deal."


    Wrapping his arms around her, he stated, "With you by my side, I can crack any deal or anything I want to. You are my lady luck."


    Knocking his forehead, Ellie chuckled, "Stop with all the sweet talking."


    "Dad and uncle Arthur always wanted to work with them but something always came up and they ended up not getting the deal. They are gonna be so happy," Noah grinned.


    Getting up, Melissa pressed her hands together and exclaimed, "We should celebrate this great news with some early dessert."


    "That is great, there is a great dessert place around we should go there," Ellie added.


    Rubbing his stomach, Sebastian sighed, "I don''t feel like eating sweet today, can I skip and drink a salted soda instead?"


    Scrunching her brows, she placed her hand in her arm. "Seb, are you okay?"


    "Everything is fine, I just don''t feel like eating anything sweet for the rest of my life," he answered.


    "What?"


    "I mean for the rest of the day," Sebastian quickly corrected himself.


    Holding his hand, she stated, "I know a great soda place around the corner, let''s get you a drink first."


    ¡­.


    Harry and Judith''s place.


    Kitchen.


    Looking at the mountain of semi-melted sugar at the bottom of the cup, Judith frowned. Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "This girl is too much at times."


    Thinking it was Ellie who added too much extra sugar in her coffee later, she was about to wash the cup when she realized that it wasn''t Ellie''s regular coffee cup she was holding.


    She widened her eyes in shock when she realized it was the same cup in which Sebastian had his morning coffee. Thinking of the empty sugar container, Judith frowned and gritted her teeth. "Harry Miller."


    ¡­.


    Backyard.


    "Extra sugar, that was a really sweet move," Jeremy exclaimed before bursting into a loud laughter.


    "I know right? You should have seen his face, he really had a tough time finishing the coffee but the good news is, he did not say a single word or threw any kind of tantrum," Harry stated.


    Shrugging his shoulder, Jeremy cheered, "That is great news, he successfully managed to pass the extreme level showing true colors test."


    Nodding his head, Harry sighed, "Well, I think he is an average nice man."


    "His looks aren''t average though, both brothers are insanely handsome and humble. I heard that Sebastian never had a love affair before he met Ellie," Jeremy explained.


    Raising his brows, Harry curiously inquired, "Really? Like never?"


    "Uh huh never, he was like a monk but our Ellie broke him down."


    "Okay that is quite impressive, I thought he was some kind of a f.u.c.kboy or something like that," Harry added.


    "Yeah but¡ª" Jeremy stopped midway when he saw Judith storming her way towards them. "Okay I think I need to leave."


    "Stop right there Jerry," Judith shouted.


    Harry widened his eyes in shock when he saw Judith coming towards them holding a cup in her hand. "H-Honey, what happened? Do you want help with the dishes?"


    "I want to know when you both will grow up," she snapped before looking at the two grown up men simultaneously.


    "What did we do?" Jeremy frowned.


    "I''ll let Mary deal with your Jerry but you¡ª" Glaring at Harry, Judith snapped, "You are in big trouble."


    "Trouble? W-What did I do?" He innocently inquired.


    Shoving the cup right on his face, she fumed, "What on Earth is this? How could you do something so lame? Are you like what, five or something?"


    Contemplating for a while, Harry explained, "T-That was a mistake, the container slipped from my hand and I¡ª"


    "Dude lame reason, use the ''I forgot I had added sugar already'' reason," Jeremy whispered.


    Glaring at him, Judith snapped, "He comes all the way from L.A to meet us, he gets gifts for us and is trying so hard to impress both of us and this is how you treat him? By ruining his morning coffee?" turning towards Jeremy, she added, "You told him about the salted coffee thing you did, didn''t you."


    Gulping in nervousness, Jeremy started rubbing his stomach. "M-My stomach hurts, I think my hyperacidity is increasing, I should rush home." Without waiting for anyone''s reply, he rushed towards his house through the backyard fence door.


    Without saying anything, Judith started walking inside leaving Harry alone.


    "Honey wait, everything was a mistake," he shouted before rushing after her.


    ¡­..


    At the mall.


    "I want fries too with extra cheese," Ellie grinned.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian sighed, "Are you sure you don''t want anything else El?"


    Shaking her head, she answered, "No, a large fries is enough."


    "You always say this and then eat Sebastian''s food," Melissa chuckled.


    "I never do that," Ellie retorted.


    "Dude, you know my regular and Melissa''s too," Noah remarked.


    Sebastian nodded his head and stated, "I''ll go get the order, be right back."


    After he left, Noah quickly explained, "Cal and Ava want to tell Seb about their relationship when we meet them in Hawaii the day after tomorrow but until then, we gotta stop Seb from seeing the news."


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie inquired, "What news?"


    "What? You don''t know what Ava did?" When Ellie shook her head, Melissa sighed, "She uploaded a picture where she is kissing Calvin in some club."


    Widening her eyes in shock, she gasped, "What? Really?"


    "Not only that." Showing her the picture, Noah added, "She even tagged her parents and asked for their blessing online."


    ¡­..


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:


    I hope you all liked the MINI COMEBACK MASS RELEASE :)


    I would like to make a few announcements regarding the novel:-


    1) I will be taking part in the December WIN-WIN so please show your support by buying at least the first privilege tier of the book.


    2) The book will most probably come to end by the end of this month so stay tight ^_^


    3) I will be starting two new books after I am done with all the existing ones (Will drop the details of the new books later)


    4) I would like to thank each and every one of you for waiting for me patiently and also showering my works with so much love and affection.


    With love,


    Sofia ?

 Chapter 237 - James Bond parents

    Bursting into laughter, Ellie remarked, "Why are you so funny? I never thought you would turn out to be so cheesy and funny." Cupping her face, she sighed, "Where is my bossy, arrogant boss? What did you do with him."


    Tickling her waist, Sebastian chuckled, "Your boyfriend ate him up and trust me, he wasn''t tasty."


    "Uh huh, I am sure that he definitely tastes like paper," she yelled before rolling over, trying to escape his intense tickling session.


    "Hey, what makes you think that I taste like paper?" he snapped before tickling harder.


    ¡­.


    Outside the room.


    With his ear pressed against the guest room door, Harry was trying very hard to listen to what was going on inside.


    Judith, who wanted to ask Sebastian and Ellie what they wanted for dinner, scrunched her brows when she saw her husband pressed against the guest room''s door like a lizard. Rushing towards him, she patted his shoulder. "What on earth are you trying to do?"


    Pressing his finger against her lips, he whispered, "Ellie is inside, I am trying to find out if something is wrong."


    Slapping his hand away, she snapped, "What could be wrong? And how can you do something like this? You are supposed to respect their privacy Harry, what is wrong with you?"


    "Why would she go inside his room and also lock the door? Couldn''t they just keep the door open and talk like well-mannered people?" he remarked before pressing his ear against the door again. "I think she is laughing."


    "Maybe Seb is cracking a joke," she explained.


    "Cannot he keep the door open and crack jokes?"


    Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "You are unbelievable."


    ¡­.


    Inside.


    "Oh God Seb stop," Ellie yelled before bursting into laughter.


    "What? I am not doing anything, just tickling you," he remarked.


    Before she could say anything, Sebastian placed his finger on her lips and gestured her to keep quiet. "I think there is someone at the door," he whispered.


    Listening carefully, she stated, "I think it''s mom and dad."


    Without wasting any time, he quickly got up. "I''ll go change first and then you can open the door."


    "Hmm let me take out your clothes."


    After Sebastian got dressed, Ellie quickly opened the door only to find Judith and Harry standing right outside, arguing amongst themselves.


    "Mom dad, is everything okay?" she inquired.


    Contemplating for a while, Judith answered, "Yes honey, everything is okay."


    Keeping quiet for a couple of seconds, Harry added, "Y-You were supposed to make sandwiches for me so I am here to call you."


    "But I didn''t want him to disturb you both, I was just telling Harry that I will make sandwiches for him instead," Judith further explained.


    "It''s okay mom, I will make some for everyone. Seb and I were just talking about tomorrow''s flight," Ellie answered.


    "At what time are you kids leaving tomorrow?" Judith inquired.


    "We have an early flight so we will be leaving around eight in the morning," Sebastian answered.


    "Okay then, we will go down first, you both can settle everything first and then come down." Without waiting for their reply, Judith grabbed Harry''s hand and rushed downstairs to spare themselves from further embarrassment.


    After they left, Sebastian chuckled, "You have James Bond parents."


    "I don''t think they were spying or something like that¡ª"


    "Hmmm, I think only your father is the one with James Bond traits," he added.


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she smiled, "You need to impress James Bond as soon as possible."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "I don''t see that happening anytime soon." Pausing for a couple of seconds, he inquired, "Do you think I am doing something wrong?"


    "You are doing nothing wrong, just keep being you and I am sure dad is going to love you. Well, just to make you feel a bit boosted, dad told me that I can bring you here whenever I come so to be precise, you are wholeheartedly welcomed in this house."


    Widening his eyes in shock, he beamed, "Really? Who told you that? Your dad?" When she nodded her head, he grinned, "Well, I guess I managed to charm him."


    "I hope I can charm your parents as well," she sighed.


    Kissing her forehead, he assured her, "Don''t worry, you have already charmed me for eternity."


    "Stop with your cheesy lines, we need to go downstairs."


    ...


    Next day.


    8:00 am


    Giving her mom a hug, Ellie sighed, "I will miss you mom."


    "I''ll miss you too sweetheart, you both should have stayed for a longer time," Judith remarked.


    "You both should come to LA and stay there with me for a while," Ellie suggested.


    "Sure honey, we will surely visit you soon," Harry answered before giving her a hug.


    Taking the bag from Ellie''s hand, Sebastian informed, "I''ll go keep this in the car."


    After he left, Harry waited for a while before following him.


    ¡­..


    Near the car.


    When Sebastian saw Harry, he quickly thanked him for letting him stay with them. "It was really nice getting to know you both even better."


    Patting his shoulder, Harry sighed, "It was nice knowing you too." Pausing for a while, he added, "Ellie is my biggest asset and the most precious thing of my life, please take good care of her."


    "She is also very precious to me, I will never hurt her or let someone else make her unhappy," he stated.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Harry explained, "I just wanted to make sure that my daughter is in safe hands and it turns out that she is. I know you might have thought that my behaviour is very silly and inappropriate." Patting Sebastian''s shoulder, he smiled, "But everything will make sense when you have a daughter in the future. Anyway, have fun on your vacation."


    "Thank you so much sir."


    ¡­..


    Looking at the moving car, Harry sighed and helplessly shook his head.


    Wrapping her arms around his waist, Judith inquired, "What are you thinking about?"


    "Hmm nothing, just wondering how time passed by so fast. Our little angel is all grown up and a very responsible woman now. I feel so proud and sad," he answered.


    "Hmmm I know, we should be only proud of her," Judith smiled.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 238 - His choice

    Inside the car.


    "What were you and dad talking about?" Ellie curiously inquired.


    "He was telling me that we should have a daughter first," Sebastian smiled.


    Smacking his arm, she placed her head on his shoulder. "Stop joking."


    "I am not joking babe." Kissing the top of her head, he sighed, "I think he likes me. We should really visit them more often, maybe make a monthly trip or something like that. What do you say?"


    "I don''t know about you Seb but if I visit Seattle monthly, I will gain at least twenty pounds every month." Poking his stomach, Noah sighed, "Why does everything taste so good here?"


    Rolling her eyes at him, Melissa snapped, "Who told you to eat like a tank?" Turning towards Ellie and Sebastian, she added, "He ate dessert six times yesterday and then begged me to give him my share too."


    "Hey, we were leaving today so everything was super overwhelming," Noah retorted.


    "You are just unbelievable," she sighed.


    Turning towards Noah, Sebastian inquired, "Is everything okay there?"


    "Uh huh, everything is set but I don''t understand one thing, why can''t we stay in your new beach house?" Noah asked.


    "Because it''s still under construction," Sebastian causally answered.


    Scrunching his brows, Noah remarked, "But it has been more than a year since the construction started."


    "Noah, do you not want us to stay in your place?" Sebastian snapped.


    "When did I say that? That place belongs to all of us, we are all family," he answered.


    "Okay then the problem is solved."


    Inching closer, Ellie whispered, "Why do I feel like you''re up to something?"


    Kissing the back of her hand, he chuckled, "Because you know me very well."


    "When will Ava and others reach there? Before or after us?" Melissa inquired.


    ??We will land there late in the evening around 8:00 pm (GMT-10) and¡ª"


    Cutting Sebastian off, Melissa smiled, "Woah oh ho big guy, you lost me the moment you mentioned GMT something."


    "Yeah me too," Ellie added.


    Looking at the two of them simultaneously, Sebastian raised his brows, "You guys don''t know what Greenwich Mean Time is?"


    "Well, of course we know what it means but I never understood it properly," Melissa answered.


    "Uh huh, the time zones are way too complicated for my freelancer brain cells," Ellie chuckled.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian sighed, "Alright, let''s eliminate the GMT''s . Now in simpler words, we will land in Hawaii at 8:00 pm L.A time."


    "Okay so what Hawaiian time is that?"


    "6:00 pm," he answered.


    "Geez so complicated, can''t we have the same timezone everywhere?" Melissa sighed.


    ...


    Seven hours later.


    Honolulu, Hawaii.


    Noah''s Beach House.


    "You and El can take the first room from the right," Noah informed.


    Looking at Ellie who was soundly sleeping on the couch, he nodded his head, "Okay, I''ll take her upstairs first. She didn''t sleep properly during the flight, kept waking up." Walking towards her, he inquired, "When will they arrive?"


    "In about three hours, I''ll order take outs for us. Brandon told me they will eat something and come,"Noah informed.


    "Just call me when the food arrives." Without wasting any more time, he scooped Ellie in his arms and made his way upstairs, towards their room.


    ¡­..


    Ellie and Sebastian''s room.


    Carefully placing her on the bed, he lied down beside her and hugged her for a while. He smiled and kissed the top of her head when she wrapped her arms around his waist and snuggled closer. These small actions always made him realize that she was comfortable with him and he loved that feeling.


    After being together for so many months, he was so used to having her right beside him that the mere thought of losing her scared under any kind of circ.u.mstances scared the hell out of him. He would do anything to always keep her close to him no matter what it takes.


    All his life, he never really did what he actually wanted to and always followed what his parents instructed him to do. Not that he didn''t want to follow his fathers footsteps and take care of the company after him but he was also never given a choice like Noah. He grew up hearing that one day, he has to take over the company so he didn''t really have a choice.


    But irrespective of everything, Ellie was different. She was his choice, something he wanted for himself and he was very proud of her. Sebastian had no idea he could also love someone so intently and deeply until she jumped into his life. Not only did she manage to bring out the best version of him but she also made him feel all the emotions which he always thought he was deprived of.


    "What time is it?" she softly inquired in her half-asleep state.


    "There is still some time for dinner, you can sleep for a while," he instructed.


    Snuggling closer, she instructed, "Wake me up when food is ready, I am so hungry."


    "Hmm what do you wanna eat?" he inquired.


    "You," she chuckled.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "I am trying to be serious here and you are being romantic again."


    "Anything edible will do but right now, I want my cuddles," she demanded.


    Without saying anything, he hugged her tighter and gave her a cozy forehead kiss which brought a smile on her face.


    .....


    Noah and Melissa''s room.


    "Who told you that mom?" Noah frowned.


    "My friend Dorathy told me about it just now, I think Rebecca knows about Ellie," Rosy answered.


    "Alright, I''ll let Seb know about it later when Ellie isn''t around. I don''t wanna spoil her holiday mood."


    "Yes that is a nice idea, I tried calling Rebecca but she isn''t receiving my calls," she added.


    "Don''t bother calling her, you know how she is." Pausing for a while, he sighed, "Don''t worry about anything, Seb and I will handle everything."


    "I know you both will. Anyway, just take care of yourself and have fun," Rosy stated before hanging up the call.


    ¡­...


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:


    I hope you all liked the MINI COMEBACK MASS RELEASE :)


    I would like to make a few announcements regarding the novel:-


    1) I will be taking part in the December WIN-WIN so please show your support by buying at least the first privilege tier of the book.


    2) The book will most probably come to end by the end of this month so stay tight ^_^


    3) I will be starting two new books after I am done with all the existing ones (Will drop the details of the new books later)


    4) I would like to thank each and every one of you for waiting for me patiently and also showering my works with so much love and affection.


    With love,


    Sofia ?

 Chapter 239 - Master Noah

    "Was it mom?" Melissa inquired before wrapping her arms around his waist.


    "Hmmm, it was mom."


    Scrunching her brows, she inquired, "What happened babe? Is everything okay?"


    "I don''t understand one thing, why can''t she let Seb be happy and live like he wants to? This is ridiculous," he snapped.


    Rubbing the sides of his arm, she tried to calm him down. "Relax and tell me what happend."


    "It''s aunt Rebecca, she is trying to set Seb up with her best friend''s daughter. Mom heard about it from aunt Dorathy so she told me." Pinching the bridge of his nose, Noah sighed, "Can''t she let my mate live a normal and peaceful life?"


    Cupping his face, Melissa stated, "Hey, don''t worry about it okay? I am sure Seb will handle everything, don''t stress over it so much."


    "I know he will handle everything Mel but that is not what I am worried about." Pausing for a while, he added, "Aunt Rebecca is not physically present here but still she is trying so hard to make sure that she ruins everything between Seb and El. Now imagine what she will do when she comes back."


    Though what Noah just stated did make sense, there was nothing they could do except to alert Sebastian and Ellie about it. "I know you are worried about them and I am too but I am sure that they will handle everything. Especially Sebastian, there is no way he will let his mom ruin his relationship. We just need to stay by their side and show our support."


    Noah sighed and nodded his head in agreement. "Hmmm, I''ll let Seb know about this when Ellie isn''t around."


    "Okay, I also think we shouldn''t let her know about it now. This news will surely ruin all her vacation mood." Resting her head on his shoulder, Melissa sighed, "Thank God we don''t have such problems in our relationship."


    Kissing the back of her hand, he smiled, "Hmmm it''s good that we don''t but even if we had one, I would never leave your side. Do you know why?"


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she chuckled, "Why do I already feel that I am going to love what you are about to say?"


    "Maybe because you are going to love it." Wrapping her arms around her waist, he added, "Even if the problem was ten times bigger than aunt Rebecca, I would still not leave your side because you are worth the fight."


    "Cheesy but I still love it."


    "And I love you."


    Looking around, she sighed, "This room is so beautiful, I cannot believe people say that this place is haunted."


    Scrunching his brows, he complained, "Honey, I am trying to be romantic here and there you are talking about ghosts."


    "I was just curious."


    Crashing on the bed, he stated, "Let''s not talk about ghosts, you know I share a hate relationship with them."


    Rolling her eyes, she scoffed, "Stop being such a p.u.s.s.y and order something, I am starving."


    ...


    Next morning.


    "Morning Seb."


    "When did you guys arrive?" he inquired.


    "Yesterday night when you all were sleeping," Brandon answered.


    Noah, who had just stepped out of his room, inquired, "You guys are here, who let you in?"


    Shoving a piece of bread inside his mouth, Owen answered, "The lady who takes care of the house."


    Scrunching his brows, Noah snapped, "What lady?"


    "The one who wears a uniform, white apron and¡ª"


    Gulping in nervousness, Noah stuttered, "T-There is no lady in this house, I never hired one."


    Rubbing his chin, Calvin frowned, "That is strange, that woman even mentioned you."


    Nodding her head in agreement, Ava added, "Uh huh she referred to you as master Noah."


    Looking at Noah whose face had already turned as white as a sheet, Sebastian chuckled, "Come on you guys, stop it. Do you guys want Noah to pee his pants early in the morning."


    Just then everyone started laughing out loud.


    Pointing at Noah, Brandon chortled, "Did you look at his face? Oh God that was so easy and funny."


    "I cannot believe he fell for that," Calvin chuckled.


    Looking at Ava, Owen, Calvin and Brandon, Charlotte scoffed, "You guys know that there is a special place for people like you in hell?"


    Scrunching his brows, Noah fumed, "Seriously that wasn''t funny guys."


    "Uncle Sam had given me the spare keys a day before we boarded the plane. It was quite late and we didn''t want to disturb you guys," Ava explained.


    Glancing at the watch, Sebastian informed, "I am going for a jog, Ellie is still sleeping upstairs. If she wakes up, let her know that I''ll be back soon."


    "Okay, have fun jogging."


    "Geez who jogs on vacations?" Brandon scoffed.


    ??Fit and disciplined people honey, not lazy ones like you," Charlotte chuckled.


    After Sebastian was nowhere to be seen, Noah glared at Calvina and Ava. "Dude, when are you planning to tell Seb about it?"


    "We just landed like six hours ago, what is the rush?" Calvin asked.


    Scrunching his brows, Noah snapped, "Of course there is rush, how long do you think we can keep this away from Seb?"


    "Uh huh and with that picture you uploaded on social media, I don''t think you people have much time on your hand," June added.


    "Fine, we will tell him as soon as he comes back from the jog," Ava sighed.


    ....


    Outside.


    Taking out his phone from his pocket which was continuously buzzing, Sebastian sighed when he saw the caller ID. Contemplating for a while, he received it. "Mom I am busy right now, I''ll call you later."


    "I have been trying to call you since yesterday, why aren''t you receiving my calls?" Rebecca snapped.


    "Why are you so hyped up early in the morning? Did something happen?" he inquired.


    "After everything that your sister has done, you still have the gall to ask me why I am so hyped up?" she fumed.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian asked, "What did Ava do?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 242 - Protection

    Groaning in frustration, Ava scoffed, "Oh God, I think the game activated the cheesiest version of Sebastian Stewart again."


    Moving to his lap, Ellie wrapped her arms around Sebastian''s neck. "Why are you so cute?"


    "Because I love you," he stated before pressing his lips on hers.


    "So we are playing anymore and kissing?" Noah chuckled.


    Shrugging his shoulder, Brandon tapped Charlotte''s shoulder. "I think I like the kissing game better."


    "If you don''t mind getting smudged by my lipstick," she smiled.


    Pulling her closer, he sighed, "Have I ever complained?"


    "Lipstick smudges are the best, it makes me feel so proud about myself," Noah beamed.


    ....


    Next day


    Afternoon.


    When Sebastian came out of his room, he raised his brows when he saw the boys discussing something near the kitchen. Thinking that there might be a serious problem, he quickly approached them. "What happened? Is everything okay?"


    "Everything is fine, we are just distributive¡ª"


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian glared at the mini silver packets Noah was holding. "Condoms? You people are distributing condoms?"


    "Yep, Brandon and Owen forgot to get their boxes so we are distributing what Calvin and I had equally amongst ourselves," Noah explained. Passing a piece to Sebastian, he inquired, "Do you want some too?"


    "Me? Yeah, I don''t think so," he answered.


    "Dude, I guess he has his own box, right Seb?" When he shook his head, Brandon raised his brows. "You don''t carry condoms in your wallet?"


    "Why would anyone carry condoms in their wallet?" Sebastian frowned.


    "I do," Noah, Calvin, Owen and Brandon exclaimed unanimously.


    "I don''t know about others but carrying protection is very important. I mean, you have hormones, you have a beautiful girlfriend, anything can happen anytime," Noah explained.


    Nodding his head in agreement, Owen added, "I agree with Noah, you can''t go around looking for protection when¡ªwell, you guys know when."


    Thinking for a while, Sebastian curiously inquired, "So all of you carry condoms in your wallet all the time?" When everyone nodded their head, he thought for a while before taking a foil from Noah''s hand. "I''ll take one then."


    "Only one? Take two." Without waiting for his reply, Noah shoved another piece in his hand. "I have a feeling that you will need it very soon."


    Hooking his arms around Sebastian''s neck, Brandon chuckled, "Hey Seb, you know how to wear one, right?"


    Slapping his hand away, he frowned, "Stop talking shit."


    "Hey if you don''t know, we can always tell you. It''s very easy, just place it and then roll it all the way long," Noah explained.


    Ignoring everyone, Sebastian kept the two silver foils inside his pocket and rushed towards his room.


    ...


    Seb and Ellie''s room.


    After making sure that Ellie was nowhere to be seen, he quickly took out his wallet from the drawer and carefully placed the foils inside.


    "What are you doing?" Ellie inquired before tapping his shoulder.


    He quickly closed his wallet and placed it inside his pocket. "N-Nothing, where had you gone?"


    "I was in Melissa''s room, is everything okay?" When he nodded his head, she wrapped her arms around his waist. "Let''s take a walk today."


    "Just you and me?" When she nodded her head, he smiled, "Hmm I like the idea, just you and me walking on the beachside."


    Giving him a peck on his lips, she chuckled, "Let me get ready and while I am doing that, why don''t you call your mother back." When he sighed, she placed his hand in his cheek. "She has been calling you since yesterday Seb, you can''t keep her hanging like that. Just talk to her, hear what she has to say and then tell her what you have to say. If you do this, she won''t feel ignored and she will also stop calling you."


    "Fine but I know what he wants to talk about, she will definitely ask me about Ava and Calvin," he stated.


    "Then just tell her what you know, don''t ignore her this way." Passing him his phone, Ellie entered the washroom.


    Contemplating for a while, Sebastian reluctantly called his mother back. He had been ignoring her calls since yesterday evening and had also switched off his phone at night. He really wasn''t in a mod to deal with his mother''s tantrums while he was on a vacation.


    "So you are finally free to talk to your mother," Rebecca snapped as soon as she received the call.


    "I was busy, what do you want to talk about?" Sebastian inquired.


    "Did you talk to Ava about it? And how come you had no idea about her and that Lewis guy?"


    Thinking for a while, he answered, "What can I do? Ava is big enough to take her own decisions. If she thinks that being with Calvin is a right decision and if she is happy with him then I don''t see anything wrong about it."


    "What about Nathan then? What will I tell them?" she frowned.


    "As far as I know, Nathan is the guy you chose for her and she was never interested in him while Calvin is the guy she chose for herself. There is a big difference between those two things and just because we don''t know what we are supposed to tell Nathan and his family, we can''t force Ava to be someone she doesn''t want to." Pausing for a while, he added, "Just send an apology message to them or do you want me to send one from your side?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Rebecca snapped, "There is no need for that, I''ll do what I am supposed to. Ava is young and na?ve but I had higher expectations from your Sebastian, you are also disappointing me."


    "Ignoring her statement, he stated, "I have something important to do, I''ll talk to you later." Without waiting for her reply, he hung up the call before tossing his phone aside.


    "Babe, are you done talking?" Ellie inquired.


    "Yes honey, we can leave now," he answered.


    ...

 Chapter 243 - Pay attention

    At the beach.


    With their hands intertwined together, Sebastian and Ellie were taking a romantic evening beach walk together.


    Turning towards Sebastian, she smiled. "Seb, what do you like in me?"


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, Sebastian smiled. Inching closer, he brushed their lips together and whispered, "I like each and everything about you."


    Pushing him away, she pouted her lips. "That was by far the cheesiest thing you have ever told me."


    Pulling her closer, he nodded his head. "That was cheesy but it''s also the truth." Kissing her forehead, he added, "You are the cheesiest and the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me."


    "And you are the most handsome and sweetest thing that has ever happened to me." Tiptoeing, she hooked her arms around his neck. "I grew up learning that love is the most beautiful feeling but after meeting and falling in love with you, I realized that it''s one hundred percent more beautiful than I thought it would be."


    Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he gently caressed her cheeks. "I wanna take you somewhere."


    "Where do you wanna take me?"


    "Somewhere special." Kissing her forehead, he added, "It''s nearby, we can just walk there."


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s beach house.


    Passing her the keys, he instructed, "Here unlock the door."


    "Okay." Taking the keys from his hand, she curiously inquired, "Whose place is this?"


    "It''s my beach house, the one Noah was talking about," he answered.


    "I thought that one was still under construction," she stated before entering the house along with Sebastian.


    ¡­..


    Inside.


    Looking at the simple yet elegant interior of the beach house, Ellie sighed in satisfaction. "This is beautiful."


    Hugging her from behind, he kissed her nape. "Do you like it? You can make changes according to your preference."


    "You will let me make changes here?"


    "Of course babe, what''s mine is also yours. You can whatever you want to," he stated.


    "It''s perfect the way it is," she smiled.


    "I wanna show you something else too." Grabbing her hand, he guided her towards a room in the corner. "When I told you about my painting hobby, you asked me if I have a room where I paint or keep my paintings?" When she nodded her head, he continued, "And I promised that I''ll show you the room when the right time comes."


    "Yes, I remember that."


    Without saying anything, he opened the door and guided her inside the room.


    "What¡ª" she stopped midway when a room with canvases which had beautiful paintings sketched on them greeted her. Most of them were complete, elegant paintings which had the finest curves and contrast of colourings while some were incomplete paintings waiting for the magic to happen. "Wow this is amazing Seb, did you paint them all?" she curiously inquired.


    "Hmm I had a separate place back in L.A where I used to paint and keep them. When this place was ready, I had them shipped here. They aren''t that great, I just¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she beamed, "Are you kidding me? They are beautiful, you are so talented."


    "Come on, they are easy to make. You can do it too," he stated.


    "Pttff, you are joking right? I can''t even draw a mango before erasing it at least twice and you think I can create something like this?" she chuckled.


    Grabbing her hand, he guided her towards an empty canvas. "Come on, I''ll teach you. I swear it''s not as hard as it looks." Making her stand right in front of the canvas, he added, "I''ll go get the colours."


    "Alright, if you insist. I shall show you how horrible my painting skills are," she remarked before tying her hair into a messy bun.


    "Practice makes everyone perfect, You didn''t learn how to write or speak fluently in one day, right?"


    "Hold on a sec, are you planning to give me painting lessons starting today?" When he nodded his head, she inquired, "And how am I supposed to pay you for that or is it for free?"


    "Nothing is free Ms Miller, everything comes with a price." Squeezing the paint out of the tube in the color palette, he added, "My painting lessons are very expensive, twenty kisses per hour."


    Placing her hand on her chest, she faked a gasp, "Oh my God, there is no way my lips can afford something so expensive."


    "Pick up that small brush," he instructed.


    Pointing towards the smallest brush she could see, she asked, "This one?" When he nodded his head, she inquired, "Okay, what do I do now?"


    "Now dip it in the white paint." When she did what he had asked her to, Sebastian wrapped his left arm around her waist and held her right hand with his.


    Looking at his arm wrapped around her waist, she chuckled, "This is by far the most romantic painting class I have ever attended."


    "Pay attention." Kissing her earlobe, he whispered, "Eyes on the canvas."


    Ellie gasped lightly when he suddenly tightened his grip around her waist and hand. She could feel his warm breath on her ears which made her feel giddy. He was also brushing his lips against her earlobe every now and then making it very hard for her to concentrate.


    "Now just gently stroke on the edges," he instructed before leaving soft kisses on her neck.


    Closing her eyes, she arched her neck to the other side giving him more access.


    "If you close your eyes, how are you going to learn?" he stated in a deep, attractive voice which sent chills down her spine.


    "I¡ª" She stopped midway and frowned when he let out a low chuckle. Hitting him with her elbow, she complained, "This is no more a normal painting class, you are clearly taking advantage of your only student."


    "There is nothing wrong with taking advantage of my girlfriend," he remarked.


    Dipping her finger in the white paint, Ellie rubbed it on the tip of nose. "Then there is nothing wrong with painting my boyfriend''s nose."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 244 - Pleasure**

    [WARNING: Mature content ahead...I know you will shamelessly read it despite the warning]


    Completely taken aback by her sudden paint attack, he quickly dipped his four fingers on the paint. "You are so dead."


    Ellie squealed in surprise and tried to escape from his clutches but before she could take more than a couple of steps, he grabbed her waist and pinned her against the nearby wall. Their laughter was soon replaced with heavy breathing. She was trapped in between his arms, her chest pressed against his.


    Placing one of his hands on the back of her neck, Sebastian slowly brushed the tip of his nose against her right cheek before brushing it against the tip of her nose.


    Gulping in nervousness, she softly called his name. "Seb."


    "Hmmm," he let out a low affirmative sound while his hand gently rubbed the back of her neck.


    With his lips just an inch away from his, she resisted the strong urge to ravish them and closed her eyes. "The painting, we¡ª"


    "Forget it, you suck at it anyway." Without wasting anymore time talking or thinking, he did what he was supposed to. He pressed his lips against her slightly parted ones and started sucking her lower lips before pushing his tongue inside her mouth. His tongue wandered around her mouth until it met hers.


    The intertwining of his warm tongue against hers made her m.o.a.n in satisfaction. Her heart sank in pleasure and anticipation, her legs started turning wobbly making it very difficult for her to stand still.


    With one of his hands holding the back of her neck, he gently caressed her bare waist with the other. He then slowly started sliding his hands further upwards, stopping right below her b.r.e.a.s.t. Pulling away, he buried his face on her neck before slowly cupping her b.r.e.a.s.t.


    Pressing the back of her head against the wall, she closed her eyes and let out a seductive m.o.a.n when he started fondling her b.r.e.a.s.t gently.


    He then caught the hem of her t-shirt and swiftly took it off before tossing it on the ground. With both his hands placed on either side of waist, he started leaving soft kisses all the way down her neck up to her cleavage. Kneeling on the ground, he brushed his lips all the way down, stopping right below her lower abdomen.


    When he looked at her with his misty and loving eyes, she gently clutched onto his hair, giving him the permission he was seeking.


    After receiving the green light, he slowly unbuttoned her shorts before pulling it down, making it easier for her to kick it off.


    Curling up her toes, Ellie lowered her head trying very hard to avoid his gaze. She was standing in front of him in the most vulnerable state which made her feel embarrassed.


    Without saying anything, he lifted her chin up and kissed her in the most gentle way which immediately helped in calming her tensed nerves down. He then scooped her into his arms and walked out of the room.


    ¡­.


    Inside the bedroom.


    Kicking the door open, he gently placed her on the bed before taking off his t-shirt and tossing it aside.


    Ellie drooled at the sight of his toned body, she would never get over it no matter how many times she had seen or touched it. Supporting her body with the back of her hand, she watched him unbuckle his belt while walking towards the window. He then drew the curtains together before walking towards her.


    Hovering his tall body over hers, he gently kissed her forehead before moving towards her shoulder. He then removed the strap of her bra before doing the same with the other side.


    She curled her toes in anticipation when he unhooked her bra. She wanted it but at the time, she was scared but unlike the other time, she wouldn''t let her unreasonable fear come in between them.


    Sebastian stopped midway when he felt her body turning stiff. He gently held her without doing anything and waited for her to calm down.


    His gentle actions made her feel butterflies in her stomach. She knew he wanted her to take the time she needed and was willing to wait for her no matter how long it took. Sebastian was like that, he always placed Ellie''s needs above his and never allowed his desires to take an upper hand over their relationship. This was one of the many qualities she loved and adored about him.


    Holding the strip of her bra, she slowly took off and tossed it on the floor. Her cheeks started burning red at the realization that she was n.a.k.e.d in front of him.


    His eyes darted at her erect n.i.p.p.l.es which were inviting him, yearning for his attention. Gently cupping one of her b.r.e.a.s.ts, he took the other one in his mouth, earning a loud m.o.a.n from her.


    He was sucking, bitting, nibbling her erect n.i.p.p.l.es making her go frenzy. She could feel adrenaline rush into her brain making her m.o.a.n louder. She squeezed her thighs shut when she felt dampness in between her legs.


    Webbing her fingers in the back of his hair, she pushed him forward, demanding for more. She didn''t want him to stop, the feeling of his wet tongue against her erect n.i.p.p.l.es was sending waves of pleasure throughout her body, something that she had never felt before.


    Sebastian groaned in pleasure when she gently pushed his head forward. Her seductive m.o.a.ns were making his member grow harder than it already was. He slowly swirled his wet tongue around her erect n.i.p.p.l.es while he fondled the other one. The feeling of her bare b.r.e.a.s.t around his palm felt so right, no words could justify the pleasurous jolts he was feeling all over his body.


    Pulling away, he captured her other b.r.e.a.s.t which was also yearning for his attention. He swirled his tongue around it before sucking on it.


    Letting go off her b.r.e.a.s.t, he slowly kissed his way down to her lower abdomen and...¡­.


    ,,,,

 Chapter 245 - Pleasure(II)***

    [SECOND WARNING: The temperature of this chapter has maxed out, please be careful while scrolling or swiping. The author is not responsible for any kind of burns]


    Letting go off her b.r.e.a.s.t, he slowly kissed his way down her lower abdomen. He stopped midway and looked at her.


    Slowly lifting her head up, she bit her lower lip and looked at him. She wanted it, she had never wanted anything so bad. She wanted him to touch and mark every single part of her body, she wanted him to claim her and make her his forever.


    Crawling his way up, he gently nibbled her lips and kissed her forehead before kissing his way down her. Both of them knew what they wanted, they didn''t need any verbal consent. Their hearts yearned for each other and they knew they had waited enough.


    Parting her knees, he bent down and kissed her inner thighs simultaneously.


    She curled her toes and m.o.a.ned in pleasure when she felt his soft and wet lips against her thighs. She was already dripping wet down there and she knew it. A weird sense of craving enveloped her body. It was not something she had felt before, it felt weird but pleasurous at the same time.


    Kissing her pubic bone while she still had her underwear on, he slowly pulled it down. The sight of her dripping wet opening awestruck him.


    Embarrassed by the way he was staring at her, she covered her face with both her hands and squeezed her thighs shut. Her face was burning in embarrassment, only if she could run away and hide somewhere.


    Running his fingers through his hair, he smiled before lying down beside her. He then pulled her closer until her bare back touched his chest. Kissing her shoulder, he slowly removed her hands from her face.


    Turning her head towards him, she placed her hand on his cheek and pressed her lips against his.


    With his lips savoring hers, he slowly parted her thighs, His fingers gently caressed his inner thighs for a few seconds before running it through her wet clit.


    Pulling away, she threw her head back and m.o.a.ned in pleasure when his fingers repeatedly rubbed against her clit. The craving she was feeling suddenly intensified. Now she knew what she was craving for, she was craving and yearning for him and his touch.


    Her sweet m.o.a.ns were like sweet and pleasurous rings of bells for his ears which made him satisfied and hungry. Yes, he was hungry for her, he wanted to claim her and make her his but he didn''t let his manly desires come in between her pleasure. He wanted her to take pleasure in every second they were together.


    Parting her thighs further away, she slowly slipped her hand inside his pants.


    He groaned in satisfaction when she wrapped her fingers around his rock member which was throbbing in excitement. When she cupped his balls and started jerking him off, he quickly removed her hand and intertwined it with his, instructing her not to do it. It was already very hard for him to control and her jerks were making it worse.


    Before she could ask him what was wrong, he pushed one of his fingers inside her wet opening making her gasp and arch in pleasure. Clutching onto the sheets, she m.o.a.ned aloud when he started stroking his finger in and out while his other hand never stopped rubbing her clit. She could feel herself turn more wet every time he stroked his finger inside her.


    She slightly winced in pain when he inserted his second finger but the pain lasted only for a few seconds and was soon replaced with a wave of strong pleasure which kept hitting her every second. She could feel an intense pressure building in her lower abdomen and her body was turning hotter every passing second.


    Amidst the pleasurous waves, a sense of disappointment creased on her forehead when Sebastian suddenly stopped. She was about to ask him what was wrong when he saw him hop out of the bed. He then took out his wallet from his pocket and kicked off his pants and briefs in urgency.


    Ellie gulped at the sight of his mighty member standing upright in glory. It was definitely much bigger than the last time she had seen it. The thought of taking all of it in made her feel more wet and also scared.


    She frowned curiously when she saw him looking for something inside his wallet. She heard him curse and empty his wallet on the floor. This was the first time she was seeing him being messy with his things but she also understood that the situation called for it. Both of them were in a very tight situation where every second apart felt like ages¡­...


    ¡­..


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:-


    Just giving you all an advance heads up of my upcoming books. ^_^


    i) I always wanted to write a fantasy romance book but I kept delaying it thinking I can''t pull it off because it''s a completely different genre but after lots of thinking and research work, I have decided to start a fantasy romance novel(vampires, werewolves & witches) which will have a modern setting. The plot is unique, interesting and well thought so I hope you all will like it.


    ii) For those who don''t like fantasy books, I hope you can give my book a shot but if you don''t want to, there is nothing to worry about. I will also start an urban romance book alongside the fantasy one so that all my readers can stay with me.


    iii) The books will be up in January 2021 after I am done with the existing ones. I know there is still time but I am super excited about it. :D


    iv) I hope to see each and every one of you when I start my new book. We have been together for the last eight months. I hope we can continue this whole moving from one book to another for years to come.


    Much love.


    Sofia ?

 Chapter 246 - Pleasure(III)***

    [WARNING: Mature content ahead, please read at you own risk]


    Grabbing one of the silver foils from the floor, he quickly tore the packet and sat down on the edge of the bed.


    Peeking from his shoulder out of curiosity, she frowned wondering why he had a condom inside his wallet. "Where did you get that from?" she inquired.


    "Noah gave it to me earlier, he had a feeling that I will be needing it very soon." Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled, "He couldn''t be more right." Hovering her body under his, he settled himself in between her thighs. Gently caressing her cheeks, he kissed her forehead, followed by her eyes, cheeks and lips. The kiss was soft, gentle, it was a way of him telling her that everything was going to be okay and he loved her.


    Pulling away, she cupped his cheeks and nodded her head. She was ready for him, in fact, she hadn''t been so sure or ready for anything. She wanted him as much as he wanted her.


    Burying his face on her neck, he slowly pushed his member inside her, inch by inch making sure to keep his movements slow and steady.


    Wrapping her legs around his waist, she dug her nails in his back, squeezed her eyes shut and winced in pain.


    Waiting for a while, he kissed her tears away and slowly pushed himself further inside. He groaned in pleasure when he felt her walls tighten around his throbbing shaft. She was so tight making it difficult for him to hold on.


    Ellie arched her back and m.o.a.ned in pain and pleasure. She could feel him grow harder inside her and the mixture of pain and pleasure felt very weird yet satisfying at the same time.


    Wiping her tears off her face with his thumb, he anxiously inquired, "Are you okay?"


    She could sense the anxiety and panic on his voice. She didn''t want him to worry too much so she opened her eyes and slowly nodded her head. "It was painful at first but now I am okay."


    Pressing his lips in her forehead, he started slowly moving his hip making sure not to hurt her a lot.


    The initial pain she was feeling was soon replaced with pleasurous waves, something that she was feeling for her first them. Soon her groans were turned into pleasurous m.o.a.ns which kept getting louding with each thrust.


    He groaned in pleasure when her walls tightened around his shaft. Placing his hand on her h.i.p.s, he increased his pace and started pumping inside her harder. His each thrust was powerful and pleasurous making her go frenzy.


    Arching her back, she wrapped her legs around his waist and started moving her h.i.p.s trying vert hard to match his pace. She could feel heat creeping all over her body and the sudden adrenaline rush made her mind and vision blurry.


    Scratching his face, she threw her head back and muttered, "Faster."


    Pulling out, Sebastian tightened his grip on her waist and pushed himself inside her in one swift motion, thrusting harder and deeper.


    She arched her back and screamed in name. She could feel an intense pleasure building in her lower abdomen.


    Swirling his tongue around her erect n.i.p.p.l.es, he nibbled it before sucking it while his other hand kept rubbing her clit intensifying the pleasure and pressure.


    Grabbing a fistful of his hair, she screamed in name in pleasure and released herself.


    Thrusting himself inside her a couple of times, he exploded inside her. Lying on top of her with his head buried in her neck, he stayed on the position for a minute before pulling himself out of her. He then discarded the material and pulled her in his embrace.


    Both of them were still out of breath and were covered in sweat but they couldn''t care less about it. Covering both of them with the sheet, he gently kissed her forehead and pulled her closer.


    Both Ellie and Sebastian knew this was just the beginning of their relationship and they had a very long way to go. But they also knew that they would manage to surpass all the obstacles that they have to face in the future. Both of them had faith in each other, they trusted each other and believed that their love is so strong and pure that it will never waver no matter what happens.


    ¡­..


    Next day.


    When Ellie woke up, Sebastian was nowhere to be seen. Rubbing her grumbling stomach, she sighed and buried her face on the pillow. She had no energy to wake up and look for Seb or some food.


    "Are you missing me?" Walking towards her, he sat down on the edge of the bed and ruffled her hair. "Wake up sleepy head."


    Placing her head on his lap, she wrapped her arms around his waist. "How long did I sleep?"


    "Almost sixteen hours," he chuckled.


    Widening her eyes in shock, she gasped, "You are kidding, right?" When he shook his head, she sighed, "No wonder I am feeling so hungry."


    "Breakfast is already ready, let me bring it here for you."


    "Not here." Looking around, she sighed, "This room is a mess, Let''s eat in the living room."


    "You are right, we made this room messy." Kissing the back of her hand, he smiled, "Let''s get you cleaned first. We are going sightseeing today, everyone is waiting for us." Scooping her into his arms, he added, "Let me help you."


    "T-There is no need for that, I can do¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he chuckled, "Are you being shy?"


    "Why would I be shy? You are the one who is shy," she snapped.


    Walking towards the washroom, he smiled, "It''s just me babe, you don''t have to be shy."


    ¡­..


    An hour later.


    Outside Noah''s beach house.


    Stopping right in front of the door, Ellie wrapped her arms around his waist and inquired, "I wanted to ask you this yesterday but we got busy."


    "Hmm, very busy," he smiled.


    ....

 Chapter 247 - Parenting

    Pulling her closer, Sebastian asked, "Can we be busy tonight as well? And tomorrow too¡ªyou know babe, let''s be busy everyday."


    Slapping his chest, she complained, "Seb I am trying to be serious here."


    "Alright, what did you want to ask?"


    "I was wondering why you lied about the beach house being under construction when it is clearly not," she stated.


    "Well, I lied because I wanted you to be the first person to see it and now since we had our first special night there, there is no way I am letting anyone in there. It can be like our private space where no one else is allowed," he explained.


    Pulling his cheeks, she sighed, "Why are you so cute? You are making me fall in love with you all over again."


    "I fall in love with you all over again every single day."


    "Seriously you guys, what the hell are you both doing in front of the door? We are waiting for you inside, Calvin made a really great breakfast for all of us. Come on in," Charlotte stated.


    ¡­.


    Inside.


    Looking at the two of them, Melissa grinned, "You both look very fresh and happy."


    Cupping her cheeks, Ava added, "El you are glowing, did Seb give you some kind of a special massage?"


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, Sebastian tried to change the topic to save themselves from the teasing. "The toast is very nice."


    Scrunching his brows, Owen remarked, "Seb, there something on your ear."


    Touching his earlobe, Sebastian asked, "What is it?"


    Taking a closer look, he answered, "I think it''s white paint." Without waiting for his reply, Owen frowned, "Oh there is paint on your neck as well¡ªoh no wait, that is a hickey."


    "There is white paint in your neck as well El," Melissa remarked.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian retorted, "You guys seriously talk too much, have your food quietly."


    "Yes everyone, have you food quietly and don''t disturb the love birds." When Sebastian glared at him, Noah shrugged his shoulders. "What? What are you glaring at me? You should thank me for¡ª"


    Cutting him off, he snapped, "I will thank you later properly."


    ¡­..


    After breakfast.


    Ellie''s room.


    "Okay now start spilling," Melissa demanded.


    Rubbing her sore back, Ellie sighed, "There nothing to spill Mel."


    Rolling her eyes at her, she scoffed, "Oh please, don''t even try lying¡ª"


    "I knew you girls would be here." Rushing towards them, Ava beamed, "Don''t start without me."


    Looking at the two of them, Ellie helplessly shook her head. "You girls are unbelievable."


    Slumping on the bed, Melissa breathed a sigh of relief, "My best friend finally had s.e.x, I feel so happy."


    "Ahhh so my guess was right, finally you both couldn''t control yourselves any longer. I wish Seb wasn''t my brother, I would have asked you every single detail but this is still so exciting," Ava beamed in excitement.


    Grabbing Ellie''s hand, Melissa curiously inquired, "So how do you feel?"


    "My back hurts and legs feel very sore¡ª"


    Cutting her off, she rolled her eyes, "I don''t wanna know how you are feeling now, I meant how you felt when you did it with Sebastian."


    "I am not sharing details but all I can say is that Seb was so sweet and gentle with me and it was the best feeling I have ever experienced," Ellie answered.


    ¡­..


    Two weeks later


    Los Angeles.


    Noah''s parents'' place.


    Looking at Rosy who was busy playing with two dogs she had never seen before, Rebecca remarked, "So you and Samuel adopted two dogs."


    "Rebecca you are back," Rosy smiled before getting up and giving her a hug. "It''s good to see you again after a long time."


    "Hmm we were away for too long this time." Looking at dogs, Rebecca scrunched her brows, "Make sure they don''t loiter around when Seb comes here, you know how much he hates dogs."


    "Are you sure our Seb hates dogs?" Rosy smiled.


    "Of course, I know my son very well," she arrogantly declared.


    Smiling at her, Rosy stated, "These are Sebastian''s dogs, he left them here before going on vacation. They live with him in his apartment and¡ª"


    "How is that even possible? Sebastian hates¡ª"


    "People change Rebecca, our Seb has changed too but for good." Holding her hand, Rosy excitedly stated, "You should see him now, he is so happy and has started living his life like he should. He is no more the old Sebastian who used to hide his loneliness by working day and night, he has changed and has started valuing relationsh.i.p.s. He has understood the importance of being close to his loved ones and all of this happened because of Ellie."


    Tightening her grip around Rebecca''s hand, she added, "I know your parenting is completely different than mine but no matter what form of parenting one uses, there will come a time when you have to let the kids off and let them do what makes them happy."


    Without saying anything, Rebecca removed Rosy''s hand and made her way towards her mansion.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s parents'' place.


    "Why are you being grumpy again?" Arthur inquired.


    Crossing her arms in the front, Rebecca snapped, "Your son adopted two dogs."


    Without taking his eyes off the book he was reading, he nodded his head, "That is nice, I am glad that he got over the fear he had with dogs. What breed is it?" Without waiting for his reply, he added, "Nevermind, I''ll ask Seb about it later."


    "So you will ask him about those stupid dogs but you are not willing to talk to him about that girl?" she frowned.


    "I will talk to him about her as well, maybe ask him to bring her over for dinner or something. I heard she is originally from Seattle and her parents stay there so we can''t call them for dinner without planning everything," Arthur explained.


    "You¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "You are back after so many months, go out and socialize with your friends again."


    Pursing her lips, she walked out of the room without saying anything.


    ...

 Chapter 248 - Peace

    Eight hours later.


    Los Angeles.


    Inside Sebastian''s car.


    Sticking her head out of the car window, Ellie took a deep breath. "I did not realize this earlier but I actually really missed home and of course our two babies. We are going to take them, right?"


    Sebastian nodded his head and answered, "Hmm we are but first I want to take you somewhere."


    "Where? Do you have one more secret house?" she chuckled.


    Kissing the back of her hand, he answered, "It''s not too far, you gonna like it."


    ¡­..


    Fifteen minutes later.


    Looking around, Ellie curiously inquired, "Where are we?" All she could see was words and darkness which made her wonder where Seb was taking her.


    Intertwining their hands together, he guided her forward. "You will see."


    After walking for almost five minutes, they stepped in a garden-like place which was covered with flowers and different kinds of trees. There was a small man-made lake in the middle which had a small wooden path in the middle. "This¡ª"


    Just then a man approached them and greeted Sebastian. "Good evening sir, it''s nice to see you after a really long time."


    "It''s good to see you again too Gary." Placing his hand on Ellie''s back, Sebastian explained, "El, he is Gary the caretaker of this place."


    Gary politely greeted Ellie and smiled, "I guess now I know why you don''t come here these days sir." Pausing for a while, he added, "Seems like you have found your peace."


    After he left, Ellie curiously asked, "When did you discover this place?"


    "This place belongs to one of my friends, he stays out of the country all the time so Gary takes care of everything. I used to come here in the past when I left restless and uneasy. I feel relieved and peaceful when I just sit around and relax here." Grabbing her hand, he added, "I''ll show you my usual spot."


    Walking for a minute, he stopped in front of a big tree which was not too far away from the lake. Taking off his jacket, he placed it on the floor before sitting down. He then gestured Ellie to sit between his legs.


    Snuggling closer, she smiled, "This place is beautiful, why did you stop coming here?"


    Wrapping his arms around her, he pulled her closer. "Because I found you." Kissing her nape, he smiled, "I found my peace."


    Turning towards him, she pulled his cheeks. "You have become so cheesy and cute, I don''t know what to do with you."


    "Do you like this? You can come here whenever you want to."


    "I can?"


    He nodded his head and added, "Hmm I''ll let Gary know, we can come here together whenever you want."


    Leaning against his chest, she took a deep breath. "It''s so peaceful here." Closing her eyes, she added, "Let''s stay like this for a while."


    "Hmm, we just have to pick Bojo and Boji from uncle Sam''s place and take them home so we have plenty of time."


    "Let''s order pizza and binge watch something tonight," she stated.


    "We will do as you say."


    ¡­..


    Calvin''s place.


    "You can''t avoid her for life Ava, just hear what she has to say."


    "I don''t wanna hear anything from her because I know what she is going to say." Placing her hand on Calvin''s shoulder, Ava added, "You have no idea how my mom is honey, I know her since I was born."


    Thinking for a while, he inquired, "What about your dad then? You can talk to him, uncle Arthur is cool."


    "Hmm I guess I can talk to dad when mom is not around, he is actually much cooler than mom but well, they both are the same to be honest but it''s just that dad is a bit better than mom," she explained.


    "What about Seb? Did he tell them about him and Ellie?"


    She shook her head and answered, "Uh huh Seb hasn''t told them in person but I have a feeling he will do that as soon as he meets them again in person. I think they already know about Seb and El, I am sure that mom is very hyped right now."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Calvin sighed, "Why aren''t your parents like Noah''s mom and dad? Uncle Sam and aunt Rosy are so cool."


    "What can I do? Let''s just say I am very much used to dealing with my type of parents," she chuckled.


    ¡­..


    Noah''s parents'' place.


    As soon as Sebatian and Ellie got down from the car, Bojo and Boji came running towards them and started whining and snuggling against their legs.


    Squatting down, both of them started petting them and ruffling their golden shiny fur.


    "Mommy missed you both so much," Ellie stated before giving both of them tight hugs.


    "They missed you both a lot too, they were sad for a few days after you left but later they got used to it," Rosy explained.


    Giving her a hug, Sebastian remarked, "Thank you for helping us take care of them."


    "You don''t thank me, I had fun with them." Pulling away, Rosy informed, "Your parents are back, did you know that?"


    "Hmm I know, I''ll visit them later."


    "Okay, you kids must be tired after the long flight, do you want to have dinner with us?" Rosy asked.


    "Thanks aunt Rosy but we don''t want to trouble you, maybe next time."


    "Alright, you both should go home and rest early today."


    After Rosy entered the mansion again, Ellie helped Boji and Bojo inside the car. Grabbing Sebastian''s hand, she inquired, "Why don''t you go and meet your parents now?"


    "It''s alright, I''ll see them later¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she explained, "They will feel very bad if they find out that you were here and yet you did not pay them a visit." When he did not say anything, she sighed, "You should go and see them."


    "Okay, you have to come with me too," he stated.


    "They just arrived today and you want to surprise them by taking me with you?" she chuckled.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 249 - Treasure

    "But¡ª"


    "I''ll wait in the car with Boji and Bojo, you should go and see them alone." When he frowned, she added, "I can see them later."


    Contemplating for a while, he reluctantly agreed, "Fine, I''ll be back soon." Kissing the forehead, he gave her the car keys before walking towards their mansion.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s parents'' place.


    "You are here, when did you kids come back?" Arthur inquired.


    "Just a few hours ago, how are you dad?" he inquired before sitting beside him.


    "I am good, the long vacation was quite relaxing only because you and Noah handled everything here." Patting his shoulder, Arthur smiled, "You are doing great, keep up the effort."


    Sebastian nodded his head and asked, "Where is mom?"


    "She was being cranky early in the morning so I sent her away to meet up with her friends."Glancing at the watch, he added, "She should be back soon, you should stay back for dinner."


    "It''s alright, I have something to do. I''ll take my leave then, I will visit again later." Getting up, he gave his father a hug. "Take care of yourself."


    Patting his back, Arthur remarked, "I heard about your special friend." Without waiting for his reply, he smiled, "You should bring her for dinner next time you plan to visit her."


    "Okay, I''ll let her know."


    "Ask your sister to come and see me, that naughty one is not receiving my calls. Is she staying with you?" Arthur inquired.


    Sebastian nodded his head and answered, "Yes, she is staying with me." Wouldn''t his parents overreact if he told them that he was one who unknowingly sent Ava to stay with her boyfriend? So to avoid unnecessary trouble, he decided to lie to them and stay on the safe side.


    "Ask her to come home tomorrow when she has time."


    He nodded his head and walked out of the mansion, he didn''t want to stay there longer and keep Ellie waiting inside the car all by herself.


    ¡­.


    Inside the car.


    "I know it''s boring guys but your dad has gone to meet his parents, we have no other choice but to wait." Inching closer to Boji, Ellie frowned, "What did you say Boji? Why did I not go with him?"


    Running her fingers through his silky fur, she sighed, "Sebastian''s parents don''t know about me yet and I also feel like they don''t like me, especially Seb''s mom. Now don''t tell your dad that we had this conversation, okay?"


    "What are you teaching them?" Seb inquired.


    "Nothing, we were just talking." Without waiting for his reply, she inquired, "Did you see you parents?"


    "Hmm mom isn''t home but I met dad. He asked me to bring you home for dinner," he stated.


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie snapped, "What? You told him about me?"


    "I didn''t, maybe he heard about it from somewhere. Anyway, don''t think about it, we can think about the dinner later when you are comfortable with it." Kissing the back of her hand, he remarked, "Let''s go home."


    ...¡­.


    Next day.


    Park.


    Scrunching his brows, Markus inquired, "What happened Ellie? You look very disturbed today." When she sighed, he placed his hand on hers. "You can talk to me about it."


    "It''s nothing so serious, I am just freaking out about something which I should probably not but I cannot help it." Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "Sebastian''s parents are back and even though he said everything is going to be okay and he will handle everything, I still can''t stop thinking about it."


    Pausing for a while, she frowned, "Markus, do you think I am overthinking about it?"


    "Honestly, it''s completely normal for you to feel this way but you don''t have to worry, I am sure Sebastian will handle everything. He is a very responsible man, I am sure he will take care of everything," Markus explained.


    Ellie sighed and nodded her head. "I know he will but I can''t help but feel this way, I just¡ª"


    "Come here, let me give you a comforting hug." Patting her head, he assured her, "Everything is going to be okay. The Stewarts aren''t that bad, Samuel and Rosy are angels. Arthur, Sebastian''s dad is also a very good person at heart though he might seem a little cold. You might have to tackle with his mom who is a bit weird but apart from her everything is okay."


    "Wait, you know Sebastian''s family?"


    Shrugging his shoulders, Markus nodded his head. "I know a thing or two about them." Caressing her head, he added, "You can come to me if anyone tries to bully you, I have your back."


    "You are sweet Markus, you are one of the people I treasure the most."


    "I treasure you too little woman."


    ...


    Stewart International and Group.


    Sebastian''s office.


    "I heard you came home yesterday and left without meeting me."


    "You were not home mother and I had something important to do." Giving her a hug, Sebastian inquired, "It''s good to see you again."


    Caressing his head, Rebecca smiled, "It feels great to see my son again."


    Just then Ellie entered the office. "Seb, did you see my red lips¡ª" she stopped midway when she saw Rebecca. Nervously biting her lower lip, she tucked a strand of hair behind her ears. "I am sorry for intruding, I''ll come back later." Without wasting any time, she turned around and was about to leave when Sebastian called her out.


    "El, wait." Walking towards her, he frowned, "Why are you running like that? Do you want to fall down again?" Without waiting for her reply, he grabbed her hand. "Come with me."


    Stopping him, she gulped in nervousness and slowly shook her head, asking him to let her go.


    Wrapping his arms around her shoulder, he guided her towards his mother without saying anything.


    Left with no other choice, Ellie helplessly followed him. She was already nervous about meeting his parents, especially his mother and was planning to ignore it as much as she could. But now out of nowhere, she was about to meet his mother.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 250 - Awkward

    Stopping right in front of his mother, Sebastian placed his hand on Ellie''s waist before officially introducing her. "Mom, she is Ellie Miller¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Rebecca snapped, "Your assistant."


    "Yes and also my girlfriend." Looking at Ellie, he added, "El, you already know her, she is my mother."


    Not knowing what to say, Ellie quickly greeted Rebecca. "I-It''s nice to meet you Mrs Stewart."


    When Rebecca did not say anything for a long time, the level of awkwardness in the room suddenly maxed out. In order to escape from the inappropriate situation, Ellie quickly remarked, "I have to prepare insights for the meeting so I''ll take my leave."


    Not giving Sebastian any chance to say something, she quickly added, "Meeting in fifteen minutes, okay?" She then slowly slipped out of his embrace and rushed out of the office.


    "What about Charlotte?" Rebecca inquired.


    Walking towards his desk, Sebastian answered, "She is a very good friend of ours and is also dating a very good friend of mine, Brandon Hawick, you know him right?"


    Without saying anything, Rebecca started walking out of the office.


    "Ellie is my girlfriend and the woman I love, mom, she is now a part of my life and family whether you like it or not," he firmly stated, clearing his intentions. Sebastian knew his mother''s character more than anybody else, he knew what exactly she was thinking. Since the very beginning, he knew she would have a hard time accepting Ellie and their relationship. Though it didn''t matter to him, he didn''t want his mom to use inappropriate methods which would hurt Ellie. Keeping everything in mind, he decided to make his intentions very clear from the very beginning.


    "You kids are doing what you feel like these days, what can say?" Without waiting for his reply, she walked out of the office.


    ¡­..


    Ellie and Melissa''s office.


    "Breath girl, breath." Passing her a glass of water, Melissa added, "You should stop freaking out Ellie, everything is going to be okay."


    "You should have seen the way she was glaring at me, I thought she would kill me with her stare." Taking a sip from the glass, Ellie sighed, "She didn''t even greet me back."


    "Rebecca is not someone who greets people, she is kinda rude and egoistic. Noah and I are dating for three years now, I even attend their family functions. I think she has hardly given me a face five times. There are times when she completely ignores me."


    "But your case is different, she is Noah''s aunt but she is Sebastian''s mother, there is no way I can ignore her." Pinching the bridge of her nose, she sighed, "I didn''t even get a chance to wear something nice to impress her."


    Melissa was about to say something when Sebastian entered the office. Giving the couple some privacy, she walked out of the office.


    After Melissa left, Sebastian squatted in front of Ellie and grabbed her hand. "What happened?"


    Slapping his hand away, she frowned, "It''s all your fault."


    "What did I do babe?"


    "You could have introduced me some other day but no, you had to do it today when I wasn''t prepared." Looking at her clothes, she snapped, "I am not even wearing appropriate clothes as well."


    Kissing the back of her hand, he assured her. "You look lovely and gorgeous as usual." When she did not say anything, he sighed, "Come on, give me a hug."


    Getting up, she wrapped her hands around his waist and placed her head on his chest. "Your mom doesn''t like me."


    "How do you know that?"


    "I don''t know, I just have a feeling that she doesn''t," she answered.


    "Give her some time, I am sure she will be okay and even if she doesn''t, it barely matters. We love each other and that is the most important thing which actually matters," he explained.


    "I know but I still want everyone to be happy and together," she sighed.


    Kissing the top of her head, he assured her. "Everything is going to be okay, stop worrying about it."


    "Miss Miller, I brought the notes¡ª" Kenny, the copy guy widened his eyes in shock and quickly turned around when he saw something he wasn''t expecting to see.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian inquired, "Kenny, what are you doing here?"


    Hesitantly turning around, Kenny answered, "Boss, this papers¡ª"


    "I asked Ken to photocopy a few important doc.u.ments," Ellie answered.


    "Hmm keep them on the table and leave," he commanded to which Kenny quickly responded. He kept the doc.u.ments on the table and ran away.


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, Sebastian pulled Ellie closer. "When did you start calling Kenny Ken?"


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she smiled, "Everyone calls him Ken Mr.Big boss. Now if you excuse me, I have to make preparations for the meetings. And stop fooling around in my office. Let me remind you something, my office is not secluded like yours. There are so many people coming in every minute."


    "What makes you think that I care if anyone sees us? Everyone in this office should know that you are mine."


    Pushing him away, she chuckled, "Stop with that cheesiness and get ready for the meeting, I''ll go check on Melissa and Noah. You both have to attend this meeting together."


    "When can we go home?" he sighed.


    "What are you talking about? The day just started and you are about to attend the first meeting of the day." Knocking his forehead, she asked, "Do you want me to make some coffee for you?"


    "Yes please madam, I really need one."


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s parents'' place.


    "When are you planning to shift back home?" When Ava did not say anything, Arthur sighed, "Don''t tell me you are planning to stay with your brother forever."


    Contemplating for a while, Ava answered, "I am planning to shift to a new apartment and stay there after I start working in the company."


    Raising his brows, he asked, "You have finally decided to work in the company under your brothers?" When she nodded her head, Arthur smiled, "That is nice, you have taken a very good decision. If the three of you work together like a team, it will be very nice."


    Pausing for a while, he curiously inquired, "Which department will you be working in?"


    "I don''t know dad, Seb and Noah told me they have things planned so I just need to join work on Monday."


    "Hmm now let''s talk about what you did while your mom and I were away." Taking out his phone, he opened the picture which Ava had posted on her social media and also tagged her parents. Placing the phone on the table, he remarked, "I am on a relaxing vacation and my friends send me messages after messages informing me about this post of yours. I was confused so I had to log into the account I haven''t opened for at least two or three years. After struggling so much to recover the password, I see this. How do you think I am supposed to feel?"


    Taking a deep breath, Ava explained, "I know this was an impulsive move and I shouldn''t have done it but it''s all mom''s fault. She was the who kept pushing me into something I didn''t like or was interested in so¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "No matter what the reason is Ava Stewart this is not the way you are supposed to behave and neither is the right way to tell everyone how you feel." Helplessly shaking his head, Arthur sighed, "When are you going to learn Ava? When will you start acting like an a.d.u.l.t? Even teenagers don''t do things like this anymore. Learn something from your brother, even he is dating someone but he never did anything so immature.??


    Widening her eyes in shock, she asked, "You know about it?"


    "Of course I do, I was away for a few months doesn''t mean I wasn''t keeping an eye on my kids." Taking a sip of his coffee, he inquired, "So how is she?"


    "Who?"


    "The woman who managed to change your rock solid brother."


    "Ellie? She is great and also the best. She makes the best sandwiches¡ªno, whatever she makes tastes so good. Oh my God, you have to try the special coffee she makes for Seb all the time, he just loves it and I love it too," Ava beamed.


    "So her full name is Ellie Miller?" When Ava nodded her head, he inquired, "She is from Seattle, right?"


    "She is Melissa''s best friend and her neighbour too. In fact, we met El through her," she explained.


    Thinking for a while, he stated, "Okay, let''s stop talking about Sebastian and talk about you and the guy in this picture." Adjusting his glasses, he scanned through the picture intently. "Isn''t that a bar?"


    Snatching the phone from his hand, Ava frowned, "Dad, stop staring at it like that. It''s so embarrassing."


    "What? Didn''t you tag me because you wanted me to see it?"


    ¡­.

 Chapter 251 - Dessert

    Lowering her head, Ava sighed, "I was angry at that time and acted very impulsive, I am sorry."


    "Hmm as long as you realize your mistake. You have to apologize to your mother as well," Arthur instructed.


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he explained, "No matter what Ava she is your mother."


    Left with no other other choice, she reluctantly agreed. "Fine, I''ll apologize to her when I see her next time."


    "I''ll fix a date and call you kids home for dinner along with your special friends."


    Widening her eyes in shock, she snapped, "Wait, what?"


    "Why are you shocked? Don''t you want to introduce him to your parents?" he inquired.


    "It''s not like you haven''t met Calvin before," she murmured.


    "I have but I met him as Sebastian''s close friend, this time I want to meet him as your partner. Am I clear?" When she nodded her head, he added, "Good, let''s go have breakfast together."


    ¡­..


    Evening.


    Sebastian and Ellie''s place.


    "So she called my uncle and asked him what had happened," Charlotte informed.


    "And what did your uncle say?" Melissa curiously inquired.


    Shrugging her shoulder, she answered, "What I had told him. I told my uncle about Brandon a long time ago and he was okay with it. I mean, what can he do, right? He can''t force me to be with someone whom I am not interested in."


    Taking a sip of her coffee, Ava asked, "and what did my great mother the great tell him?"


    "Nothing, she just said that it was a pity things didn''t work out."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Melissa remarked, "Maybe I am being paranoid but don''t think Rebecca''s behavior is a bit strange." Without waiting anyones reply, she added, "I mean, I had thought she would throw a fit and try to sway Sebastian like she always does but she did nothing of that kind. She is quite chill about it which may be a good sign but it is also very suspicious."


    "To be honest, I also feel the same way," Charlotte added.


    "Hmm I think she isn''t saying anything because dad is not supporting her," Ava explained.


    "How do you know that?" Melissa curiously asked.


    "I met dad today for breakfast and he was quite supportive. I mean, he usually takes mom''s side but there have been times when he didn''t. Fortunately, this is one of the rare moments when he is actually acting sensible and is taking our side," Ava explained further.


    Ellie, who was quiet all the way long, finally said something. "This reminds me, Seb was telling me that he even asked him to bring me over for dinner."


    "He told me the same thing and he was also asking about you El," Ava added.


    Glancing at her phone which was constantly ringing, Melissa shoved it inside her back.


    "Why aren??t you receiving the call Mel? Who is it?" Ellie inquired.


    "It''s Noah, he has been constantly calling me for an hour now. He wants to know when I will come home, seriously this man behaves very weirdly at times," she sighed.


    Taking a sip of her coffee, Charlotte stated, "Maybe he has something important to say, you should receive it."


    Glancing at her watch, Ava gasped, "It''s late, I should leave. I was supposed to meet Cal at the supermarket, we have some serious grocery shopping to do."


    "And I have to pick up Brandon from his office." Picking up her bag, Charlotte added, "I''ll see you girls tomorrow. The dinner is still on, right?"


    "Of course it is, Cal and I will be there on time," Ava answered.


    ¡­..


    After everyone left, Ellie slumped on the couch and took a deep breath. So many things had happened today including meeting Rebecca as Sebastian''s girlfriend for the first time and the way she ignored her was still disturbing her even though Sebastian had assured her not to think about it.


    Gently caressing Bojo''s fur, she stated, "Human life is seriously very tough honey, you should be happy for not being one of us."


    As she was about to go upstairs to her bedroom, her phone started ringing. Looking at the called ID, she took a deep breath before receiving it. "Hey mom."


    "Ellie, how are you?" Judith inquired.


    "I am fine, how are you and dad?"


    "Everything is okay here, you dad has gone out for a jog with your uncle Jerry. How is Sebastian?" she asked.


    Sitting on the couch beside Bojo and Boji, Ellie answered, "He is fine too."


    "Honey, is everything okay?" Judith frowned.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she answered, "I met Sebastian''s mom today."


    "And?"


    "I don''t think she likes me or maybe she isn''t that fond of me." Pausing for a while, she added, "I just don''t know what to do."


    "Hmmm, did you tell Sebastian about your problem and how you feel?"


    Ellie nodded her head and explained, "Yes I did, he asked me not to think about it. He believes that since we both are happy and love each other, that is enough."


    "He is not wrong. What do you think?"


    Groaning in frustration, Ellie stated, "I don''t know mom, I just wanted everything to be nice and peaceful. I wanted to be on good terms with his mother but now everything is so messy and I am having a headache. I don''t wanna feel this way because my mood will directly affect Seb''s, I just can''t help it."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Judith remarked, "Honey, you do remember that your grandma hated your dad when Introduced him to her. She told me it''s never gonna work out and he will never accept him. But later when we got married, things worked out completely fine. Yes there were differences initially but time solved everything."


    Without waiting for Ellie''s reply, she added, "Always remember one thing Ellie, you cannot please everyone in your life and expect them to like you. Liking or hating someone solely depends on the person itself. If someone isn''t fond of you, that doesn''t mean you are inferior or there is something wrong with you."


    "And it also doesn''t mean that there is something wrong with the person who doesn''t like you or isn''t fond of you. Liking or not liking someone is a personal choice which we have to respect." Pausing for a while, Judith added, "Maybe Sebastian''s mother isn''t fond of you right now. Even your dad wasn''t fond of Sebastian until he got to know him better. You just need to give her some time, I am sure everything is going to be okay."


    "You think?"


    "Of course honey, how can anyone not like someone like my daughter? You are the sweetest, I am sure Sebastian''s mother will be super fond of you in the future," she proudly stated.


    Ellie smiled and was about to say something when Sebastian entered the apartment. "Thanks mom, I will talk to you later, okay? Seb is home."


    "Alright sweetheart, talk me to if you face any kind of problem okay?"


    "I will mom, bye." After hanging up the call, Ellie pointed towards the bag in Sebastian''s hand. "What is that?"


    Waving the bag at her, he answered, "I got pastries for you."


    Taking the bag from his hand, she sighed, "I was planning to make some dessert today.'' Peeking through the box, she added, "I don''t know why I am craving for something sweet today."


    Giving her a peck on her cheeks, he smiled, "Enjoy your pastries, I''ll freshen up first and then let''s make dinner together."


    "You don''t wanna have some?"


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he answered, "I''ll have my dessert at night."


    Before Ellie could say anything, her phone started ringing again.


    "Who is it?" he inquired.


    Looking at the caller ID, she answered, "It''s Mel, the girls were here a while ago maybe she left something around." As soon as she picked up the call, she heard Melissa''s loud excited squealing.


    "El, you won''t believe what just happened."


    "If you tell me I might," she chuckled.


    Without wasting any time, Melissa beamed, "Noah proposed to me."


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie squealed in excitement. "What? Oh my God, this is so exciting. How did he do it? I mean the setup¡ª" Tossing the box aside, she jumped in excitement. "Tell me everything."


    "When I came home, he had decorated the house with balloons and flowers." Groaning in satisfaction, Melissa sighed, "It was so romantic and then he got down on his knees and proposed to me."


    Closing her eyes, Ellie sighed, "That is so great and romantic, please tell me you said yes."


    "I haven''t said anything."


    Scrunching her brows, she inquired, "What do you mean?"


    "I mean he is still holding a ring and waiting for my answer. I just wanted to tell you about it first." Without waiting for her reply, Melissa added, "I''ll call you later."


    "Go girl, get engaged," she chuckled before hanging up the call. Looking at Sebastian, she informed, "Noah proposed to Melissa."


    Sitting beside her, he nodded his head. "Hmmm I know."


    "You knew about it? Why didn''t you tell me?" she frowned.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 252 - Pre-honeymoon

    "It was a surprise and Noah asked us not to tell anyone." Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, Sebastian explained, "Melissa is your best friend, if I had told you about Noah''s plan to propose her you would get excited and there was a chance that you would accidentally drop hints to her. I wanted to tell you but I didn''t wanna risk spoiling their big day."


    "Anyway, I am just so happy for them." Placing her head on his shoulder, she smiled, "Mel must be so happy and I cannot believe she is getting married."


    "What is there not to believe? Will you not believe if we get married in the future?" he inquired.


    Looking at him, she curiously asked, "Doesn''t marriage freak you out? You always talk about marriage like it''s some kind of a thing you do everyday."


    "Hmm if I say this, I know you will call me cheesy but I marry you everyday in my head."


    "Seb, are you sure you have never dated anyone in your life?"


    "I don''t remember dating anyone, why do you ask?" he inquired.


    Cupping his cheeks, she sighed, "If not then how are you so cheesy? Your pickup lines are top notch, how did you come up with them."


    Wrapping his arms around her, he smiled, "Hmmm, let''s just say that you bring out the cheesy side in me."


    ...


    Next day.


    Evening.


    Outside Lisbon Restaurant.


    Glancing at the watch, Ava sighed, "They are usually not late, what is wrong with them?"


    Rubbing her stomach, Charlotte complained, "I am hungry."


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, Brandon remarked, "I told you not to skip lunch babe."


    "How can you expect to have a heavy lunch and dinner? Do you want me to look like a snowball or something like that?" Scrunching her brows, she added, "I have started eating so much after dating you, when was the last time I ate a healthy salad for lunch?"


    "Salad is not something humans are supposed to eat Charlotte, it''s just grass and green," Brandon frowned.


    "So Brandon is a foodie too?" Looking at him, Ava sighed, "You are so fit, I thought you are diet conscious too."


    "Are you kidding me? Didn''t you see him esat like a monster back in Hawaii?" Charlotte inquired.


    Ava nodded her head and answered, "I did notice that but I thought it''s because he is on a vacation."


    "Vacation or not, he eats way too much and he is not just a foodie, he is a fancy eater as well. Everyday he craves for different things like seafood, Italian, Chinese, Mexican and sometimes fast food. I have no other choice but to follow him and eat those things with him every single day," Charlotte ranted.


    Hugging her from behind, Brandon grinned, "I love you."


    "You are lucky that I love you too," she scoffed.


    Looking at Sebastian, Ellie instructed, "Seb, why don''t you call Noah and ask him where he is?"


    He nodded his head and was about to take out his phone when Noah and Melissa arrived.


    "I am so sorry we are late." Pausing for a while, Melissa slowly lifted her left hand up. "It was so difficult walking with this huge engagement ring on my finger."


    Squealing in excitement, all the girls quickly surrounded her and started congratulating the couple.


    Looking at the ring, Ellie groaned in satisfaction. "This ring is so beautiful."


    "I know right and look at her, Mel you are glowing," Ava remarked.


    Giving her a hug, Charlotte added, "I am so happy for you both, congratulations."


    "Alright, let''s go inside and talk properly," Calvin suggested.


    ¡­..


    Inside the restaurant.


    "Pre-honeymoon? Is that even a thing?" Ellie chuckled.


    "Of course it''s a thing, we were planning to go on one for a long time but well, we were waiting for Noah to propose me," Melissa explained before wrapping her arms around Noah''s. "I thought we still had time but who would have thought he would propose me yesterday all of a sudden."


    "And yet the first she does when I get down my knees is call her best friend and tell her about it instead of saying yes." Helplessly shaking his head, Noah sighed, "My knees still hurt after kneeling down for that long."


    Smacking his arm, Melissa complained, "Oh come on, stop complaining like a baby. I had to tell Ellie about it before saying yes."


    "When are you guys leaving?" Sebastian asked.


    "We haven''t decided that yet, at least a couple of weeks before our wedding," Noah answered.


    "And when is the big day?"


    "We will decide that along with our parents," Melissa stated.


    Raising the glass, Noah remarked, "I just want to thank you guys for always supporting us and also Owen and June who couldn''t make it tonight. We all are like a big fat family so you guys won''t be receiving any invitation, instead you have to help us send invitations. Dinner is on us, enjoy."


    "Cheers to the would be bride and groom," Brandon stated.


    ...


    Sebastian''s parents'' place.


    "I have prepared a menu for the dinner party this weekend, go through it once with the chef and add whatever you want to," Arthur remarked.


    "Dinner party? For whom?" Rebecca inquired.


    Raising his brows, he asked, "Don''t you know that Noah and Melissa got engaged?"


    "Yes, I heard about it."


    "Hmm I told Sammy to come here for dinner along with his family so we have a small family gathering. I also called the kids over." Without taking his eyes off the book, he added, "Ava and Sebastian are bringing Calvin and Ellie over."


    "Why are they bringing them here?" she frowned.


    "Because I asked them too."


    Scrunching her brows, she remarked, "But this is a family gathering and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Arthur snapped, "They are like family now." Without waiting for her reply, he instructed, "Don''t forget to discuss everything with the chef and the helpers."


    Giving him a weak smile, Rebecca nodded her head. "I will."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 253 - Appointment

    Next day.


    Stewart International and Group.


    Sebastian''s office.


    With her phone pressed against her ear, Ellie was intently looking for something. "Seb, the file is not here. Where did you keep it?"


    "Babe it''s in the right drawer, the file is blue in colour," Sebastian explained.


    Scrunching her brows, she complained, "Of course I know that it''s blue in colour, I was the one who gave you that file after evaluation."


    "Seriously honey, if you wait for fifteen minutes, I will be there and then I will take the file out of you."


    "I don''t have time, I need to go through it once more before making the report. You will need it during the meeting which is scheduled in the afternoon. Why do you always have to go out when I need you the most?" she snapped.


    "Hey, you are the one who was craving for some bubble tea. I am just being a good boyfriend and getting it for you," he remarked.


    "Well¡ªahhh found it." Looking through the file, she stated, "Get some cookies as well, I love you bye." After hanging up the call, Ellie was about to rush out when someone entered the office.


    Looking at the man whom she did not remember seeing but he also looked familiar, she frowned.


    "Is Sebastian not here?" the man inquired.


    She shook her head and answered, "He has gone out to do something important but he will be here soon."


    "Okay, I''ll wait for him."


    "Excuse me, can I know your name and do you have an appointment?" Ellie inquired before taking out the appointment list.


    "I am Arthur Stewart, Sebastian''s father." Raising his brows, he smiled, "Do I still need an appointment to meet my son?"


    Dropping the entire file and the paper she was holding in her hand, Ellie widened her eyes in shock. "I am¡ª" Quickly squatting down, she started picking up the papers which were scattered all over the floor.


    Bending down, Arthur stated, "Here, let me help you."


    Taking the parents from his hand, she awkwardly apologized. "I am sorry I did not recognize you and thank you for helping me pick them up."


    "It''s alright, I was away for many months and I think you joined the company when I was away." Looking at her, he smiled, "You must me Ellie."


    "Y-Yes, I am Ellie Miller. It''s a pleasure to meet you sir," she politely greeted him in her panic state.


    "It''s a pleasure to meet you too." Walking towards the couch, he inquired, "Where did Seb go?"


    "H-He stepped out for a bit to do something important, he will be back soon." Contemplating for a while, she inquired, "Do you want something? Water, tea or coffee?"


    "Coffee, if you make one." Without waiting for her reply, he added,, "I heard you make delicious coffee, I would love to taste it."


    "Sure, I''ll quickly get one for you. How many tablespoons of sugar would you like?"


    "Exactly like Sebastian likes it."


    "I''ll get one quickly." She then rushed out of the room without waiting for his reply. She met Sebastian''s mother out of nowhere and today she met his father all of sudden and that too in Sebastian''s absence. How could her luck be so bad?


    Cursing her fate, she quickly rushed towards the pantry to make a cup of coffee for Arthur as per his request.


    ¡­..


    Ten minutes later.


    "Dad, when you come here?" Sebastian inquired before placing the things which his girlfriend had instructed him to get.


    "Not too long ago, I was waiting for you and my coffee." Looking at Ellie who had just entered the room, Arthur added, "That was fast."


    Giving him the coffee, Ellie gave him a weak smile. "I hope you like it."


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, Sebastian remarked, "Seems like you both have already met."


    "Hmm we did have an interaction while you were away," Arthur answered.


    Turning towards Sebastain, she whispered, "I''ll go complete my work."


    Grabbing the bag from the table, he stated, "Here is your bubble tea and cookies."


    Raising his brows, Arthur inquired, "So you had gone out to bring that?"


    Sebastian nodded his head and answered, "Yes, Ellie wanted some bubble tea so I got it for her."


    "Good, that is also a very important work, right Ms.Miller?" Arthur smiled.


    Lowering her head in embarrassment, she slowly nodded her head and rushed out of the room.


    Taking a sip of the coffee, Arthur stated, "Umm this is a delicious cup of coffee, no wonder you like it so much."


    Sitting beside him, Sebastian sighed, "Dad, what else did Ava tell you?"


    "Not something that I shouldn''t know. Anyway, I am here to invite you and Ellie for the dinner party we are hosting for Noah and Melissa," Arthur informed.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian remarked, "So you are here to invite me for a dinner party which is happening in my own house?"


    "Uh huh and don''t forget you bring Ellie with you." Glancing at his watch, Arthur sighed, "I am getting late but I will leave after finishing this cup of coffee."


    "Your sudden appearance in my absence must have given Ellie a heart attack," he sighed.


    "I don''t think so, we had a decent conversation." After finishing his coffee, Arthur got up and patted Sebastian''s shoulder. "She is really very beautiful and I am sure she is equally nice as well."


    Sebastian proudly nodded his head and stated, "Yes she is and not just nice and beautiful, she is special too."


    "Look at you talking like a love struck fool. Anyway, I will take my leave now. I''ll see you on Friday."


    After Arthur left, Sebastian quickly made his way towards Ellie''s office.


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s office.


    When Sebastian entered the office, Ellie was busy drinking her bubble tea and shoving the cookies inside her mouth. "No one is going to take your cookies away honey, eat slowly."


    When he stretched his hand to pick up a cookie from the box, she slapped his hand away. "Don''t touch my cookies."


    ¡­..


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:


    As many of you know that Trapped in her heart was a part of THE SPIRITY AWARDS 2020. The results are already out and I am glad to inform everyone that Trapped has been nominated and won the nomination prize. ^_^


    To be honest, I wasn''t expecting that it would even get nominated but thanks to all my readers, it wouldn''t have been possible without your constant support. You guys are the ones who always keep me motivated.


    We started this journey almost nine months ago and now it''s slowly coming to its end. Let''s stay together and enjoy the blissful ending of this novel as well ?.


    Hope to see each and everyone of you when I start my new books as well :)


    Lots of hugs and kisses,


    Sofia ?


    ¡­.

 Chapter 254 - Bossy Sebastian

    "Are you going to eat the entire thing all by yourself?" Pouting his lips, he complained, "I want some too."


    Giving him a piece, she snapped, "You are just getting that, don''t expect anything more."


    Dragging a chair forward, he sat down beside her and started poking her arm. "Honey, are you angry?"


    "Of course I am angry Seb, first you give a heart attack by suddenly introducing me to your mother out of nowhere and today, you did not even tell me that you dad was coming over." Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "I even ended up asking him whether he had an appointment or not."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "I even told him you had stepped out for a bit to do something important but you ruined that as well. Who told you to tell your dad you had gone out to get bubble tea for me?"


    "So you wanted to lie? Come on honey you are just overreacting, do you know what dad told me before he left?"


    "What?"


    "He told me that you are beautiful and also invited us for the dinner party he is throwing for Melissa and Noah this Friday," he explained.


    Thinking for a while, she inquired, "So he was here to invite us for the dinner party?"


    He nodded his head and answered, "Yes and in my defense, I didn''t even know he was coming here today. To be honest, even I was surprised."


    Giving him another cookie, she sighed, "I had always thought that I would make proper preparations before meeting your parents but everything happened so quickly."


    "It''s alright, you did great."


    Scrunching her brows, she complained, "What do you know? You got almost a week to make preparations before meeting my parents."


    "Come here." Pulling her into his lap, he kissed the back of her hand. "There is still time for the dinner party, you can prepare everything you want."


    "Today is Wednesday Seb, I just have two days including today." Groaning in frustration, she buried her face on his neck. "Why is everything so stressful?"


    "Everything is going to be okay, why are you feeling so stressed?" Cupping her face, he tried to calm her down. "Listen to me, I have told you this before and I am telling you this again. Nothing is going to change even if my parents like you or they don''t. The most important thing is that we both love each other and know what we want from this relationship."


    "But they are your parents honey, we can''t ignore their feelings as well. I just want everything to be perfect," she remarked.


    Snuggling closer, he stated, "We are perfect."


    "I know but I want things around us to be stable too."


    "Everything is going to be stable. Dad seems to already like you and your coffee too, just give some time to mom, I am sure she will be okay too," he assured her.


    Shrugging away all the negative thoughts off her mind, Ellie sighed, "Alright, let''s not think about that and concentrate on work." When she tried to get down his lap, he pulled her closer.


    "Where are you trying to go?" he raised his brows.


    "To work, it''s work time boss," she chuckled.


    "I just left everything behind and stepped out to get something you wanted, where is my reward?" he asked.


    Rolling her eyes at him, she knocked his forehead. "Stop fooling around, we have meetings to attend."


    Glancing at the watch, he answered, "We can postpone it, just shift it around afternoon."


    Scrunching her brows, she remarked, "No, you can''t do that¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he inched closer. "Ms Miller, who is the boss here?"


    "You," she answered. Her eyes drilling into his.


    "Whose orders are you supposed to follow?"


    "Yours."


    Nodding in satisfaction, he added, "Shift the meeting somewhere around late afternoon."


    "Okay boss."


    Gently caressing her lips, he inquired, "Good, now I want you in office in five minutes. Is that clear?"


    "Seb we are still¡ª"


    "Are you willingly following my orders or should I carry you there?"


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie quickly answered, "I-I''ll be there in five minutes." How could you let him carry her around while there were still employee''s in the office? How was she supposed to face everyone after that?


    Getting up, Sebastian fixed his blazer and added, "Don''t make me wait for a long time Ms.Miller, it''s urgent." Without waiting for her reply, he walked out of the office.


    Slumping on the couch, she picked up a paper and started fanning herself. Bossy Sebastian is surely very dangerous for her hormones.


    ¡­..


    Friday.


    Sebastian''s and Ellie''s apartment.


    "What? When did that happen?" Taking out his phone, Sebastian frowned, "Let me talk to dad."


    Rubbing the sides of his arm, Ellie explained, "Seb, don''t make a scene out of it. Aunt Rosy called me in the morning and asked me if I could help her with the food. The chef suddenly got sick today so he took a leave. It''s Mel''s big day so we can''t call her for help so I am going there instead."


    "But why? Can''t they just call some other chef? This is not acceptable, you are not going anywhere." Grabbing her hand, he made his way towards the couch. "Sit here with me all day, we don''t have to go for the dinner party as well."


    "Seb¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "Don''t say anything Ellie, what do they think? Is my girlfriend their personal chef? I will definitely raise my question over this kind of behavior, this isn''t acceptable."


    "You are just overreacting."


    "Ellie¡ª"


    Cupping his face, she explained, "Your family is like my family too, there is nothing wrong in helping our family over something they are facing trouble with. I will just go there, help aunt Rosy with everything and come back in the evening."


    Taking a deep breath to calm himself down, he snapped, "I am seriously not liking this."


    Wrapping her arms around his, she placed her head on his shoulder. "It''s okay, I don''t mind helping and it is such a small thing, you are just overreacting."


    "You don''t know anything Ellie, I know exactly how and why this happened." Without wasting any time, he declared, "I am going with you."


    "Wait, what? You have to go office and¡ª"


    "The company won''t collapse if I don''t go there for a day, Noah will handle everything. There is no way I am letting you go there all by yourself." Guiding her towards their bedroom, he added, "We will go there together, I will help you and aunt Rosy out. Let''s take our clothes too, we can change there before dinner."


    ...


    Sebastian''s parent''s place.


    "What happened to the chef?" Arthur frowned.


    "He got sick so I sent him away," Rebecca answered.


    Scrunching his brows, he snapped, "Now who is going to cook the dinner? Did you ask him to send someone else for assistance?"


    "No, Rosy and the girl who works as Sebastian''s assistant are coming over to help," she casually answered.


    "Why did you call them over? They are our guest Rebecca, why do you do such stupid things at times?" he yelled.


    "Why are you overreacting? They are just coming here to help because we are in crisis." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Didn''t everyone say that she is a really great cook? No harm in testing that, right?"


    "Don''t forget that she is your son''s girlfriend, so you better behave yourself." Glaring at her, he snapped, "When the kids were young and naive, we had no other choice but to step in and guide them all the way through. I know our ways were strict but that helped them become the strong, confident and independent individual they are today."


    Pausing for a while, he added, "But now we have to stop meddling with their business and personal life. Am I clear?"


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting Rebecca off, Arthur yelled, "Am I clear or not?"


    "Yes you are."


    Without saying anything, he walked out of the room.


    ¡­..


    Outside the mansion.


    Placing her hand on Sebastian''s shoulder who still looked super pissed, Ellie tried to calm him down. "Seb, why don''t you just go home, take some rest and then go to the office?"


    Without saying anything, he grabbed his hand and guided her into the mansion.


    Left with no other choice, Ellie quietly followed him inside hoping he won''t create any scene.


    ¡­..


    Inside.


    As soon as they entered the mansion, one of the helpers greeted them.


    "Good afternoon sir, let me inform master about your arrival¡ª"


    Cutting the helper off, Sebastian remarked, "There is no need to inform anyone¡ª" He stopped midway when Ellie tightened her grip around his hand. Taking a deep breath to calm herself down, he inquired in a much softer and normal tone. "Is aunt Rosy here?"


    "Yes, madam is inside the kitchen," the helper answered.


    Without saying anything, he guided her towards the kitchen.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 255 - Cooking together

    Stopping him right in front of the kitchen, Ellie tried to calm Sebastian down again. "Why are you being so sulky? Everything is normal and¡ª"


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, Sebastian remarked, "El, I love you but right now I am not in a mood to say anything and neither am I going back if that is what you are trying to persuade me to do. I am staying here with you and also helping you and aunt Rosy out in the kitchen."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he frowned, "Are you trying to chase me away? Do you not want me here?"


    "That is not what I am trying to say Seb, I am just asking to not be mad and snap at everyone who tries to talk to you. Just relax and don''t take everything so seriously." Without waiting for his reply, she asked, "You tell me, would you be mad if my mother would have asked me to come over to help her out?"


    "Of course not, why would I be mad if your mother calls you over?" he frowned.


    "Exactly, why are you mad when your family called me over?"


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "You don''t understand."


    "Then tell me what is it? Make me understand," she stated. She knew something was bugging him and making him mad. Sebastian was a very sensible man who never acted in this manner but the way he was behaving after learning about the whole incident was really very weird. She wanted to know what was wrong and the reason behind his behavior.


    Keeping quiet for a couple of seconds, he explained, "That is not how things work here, when the chef is sick or cannot make it to work, he always sends someone to fill his place for the day. So you see, this entire thing doesn''t make sense."


    "What do you mean?"


    "I have a really strong feeling that my mom is doing all this purposely and I know her intentions aren''t any good either," he further explained.


    Wrapping her arms around his waist, she tried to calm him down. "Why would your mother do such a thing? It doesn''t make sense and even if she is doing this purposely, what is wrong with cooking for our family? It''s not like I am doing it all by myself. Aunt Rosy is there and you are there too, everything is going to be okay."


    "Hmm okay, I am a little less mad now." Kissing the top of her head, he sighed, "Let''s go inside."


    ¡­.


    Inside the kitchen.


    When Ellie and Sebastian entered the kitchen, aunt Rosy had already started making preparations. "You are here." Giving Ellie a hug, she explained, "I am so sorry for calling you over in such a short notice sweetheart. When Rebecca told me about the chef in the morning I was shocked too. I couldn''t call Melissa over because it''s her big day, Ava is really bad at cooking so all I could think about was you."


    "It''s okay aunt Rosy, I am more than happy to help you out." Taking the apron from the helpers hand, Ellie inquired, ??So what are we making today?"


    "The menu is right there." Looking at Sebastian, Rosy smiled, "You are here too." Giving him a hug, she added, "You don''t have to worry about your Ellie, I will take good care of her."


    Asking the helper to get him an apron, Sebastian answered, "I am here to help you both out."


    "That is great, the more the merrier. We can finish the work early if everyone does it together," Rosy stated.


    "We should start quickly." Passing some veggies to him, Ellie instructed, "Seb, chop them into thin slices."


    "Right away boss," he stated before taking them from her hand.


    All the three of them were busy doing their own respective things when Rebecca entered the kitchen. She scrunched her brows when she saw Sebastian chopping the vegetables. "Seb, what are you doing here? Aren''t you supposed to be at work?"


    "I wanted to help Ellie and aunt Rosy with the kitchen stuff so I took a day off," he answered before looking at her.


    Moving towards him, Ellie slowly brushed her shoulder against his gesturing him to talk to his mother properly.


    Just then Arthur entered the kitchen. "This kitchen is currently the most lively place in this entire mansion." Taking a deep breath, he sighed in satisfaction, "And the aroma is so delicious already."


    "Arthur, you have to try the dishes Ellie will make. She is a fantastic cook and you are going to fall in love with her cooking," Rosy remarked.


    "I am already in love with her coffee, I am sure I will love whatever she makes too." Rubbing his hands together, he made his way towards them. "I am sure you people won''t mind another pair of hands to help you out."


    "Of course not, there is plenty of room for help." Looking at Rebecca, Rosy smiled, "You should also join us."


    Before Rebecca could say anything, Arthur stated, "I am sure Rebecca has important things to do."


    Giving them a weak smile, Rebecca remarked, "Of course, I''ll just take care of other things." Without waiting for anyone''s reply, she walked out of the kitchen.


    After she left, Arthur asked the helper for an apron and inquired, "Alright, what is the easiest thing that this old man with average cooking skills can make?"


    "You should ask Ellie, she is in charge here," Rosy chuckled.


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie chortled, "M-Me?"


    "Yes you, why don''t you tell Arthur what he can make?"


    Smiling her at her, Arthur stated, "I am waiting."


    Quickly grabbing the menu, she hesitantly answered, "Umm the dessert looks the easiest amongst all."


    "Great, what do I have to make dot dessert?" Arthur inquired while wearing the apron.


    "Apple pie."


    Before Arthur could say anything, Sebastian chuckled, "I guess today''s dinner is going to end without a dessert because dad is going to burn it."


    Scrunching his brows, Arthur retorted, "That is a really demotivating thing to tell someone who is going to make an apple pie for the first time. I mean how tough is it going to be?"


    "Definitely a lot tougher than just eating it," Sebastian remarked.


    "Uh huh and I am sure it''s going a hundred times more earlier than raising someone like you," he snapped. Looking at Ellie, Arthur added, "Do you know he used to pee his bed every night until he was six or seven years old?"


    "Dad¡ª" Sebastian frowned.


    Pursing her lips, Ellie tried not to laugh and shook her head. "I didn''t know that."


    "He did not tell you? Hmm then I am sure he also did not tell your about Hoppy¡ª"


    Cutting his dad off, he quickly wrapped his arms around Arthur''s shoulder. "My dad is a great chef and I am sure he is going to ace the apple pie. I cannot wait to taste it."


    Nodding his head proudly, Arthur grinned, "That is very encouraging and something was expecting from you."


    "Apple pie is not very hard to make, I''ll help you out," Ellie smiled. She really had a very good impression of Sebastian''s dad. Though he was said to be strict, he was also very nice to his kids when needed unlike Rebecca.


    "There is still time to make the dessert so meanwhile, why don''t you also start chopping like Seb?" Rosy instructed.


    "Sure."


    ...


    Evening.


    Placing the pie inside the oven, Arthur sighed. "Hmm that was kinda easy."


    "I told you it wasn''t that hard," Ellie smiled.


    Wrapping his arms around her neck, Sebastian stated, "Ellie makes everything easy, that is one of her specialities."


    "I am sure she has many more specialities." Patting Ellie''s head, Arthur smiled, "God bless you and thank you for guiding me today." Glancing at the watch, he added, "You kids should and take some rest before getting ready for the dinner."


    "Okay dad, we will see you soon again."


    Walking out of the kitchen, Arthur instructed, "Call your sister and find out when she will be here."


    After he left, Sebastian guided Ellie towards his room.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s room.


    Slumping on the bed, Sebastian sighed, "I feel so tired but it was super fun."


    Sitting beside him, Ellie smiled, "I told you it''s gonna be fun, you were getting all hyped up without any reason."


    "I am still made but not so much." Grabbing her hand, he remarked, "I am just happy that I got to spend the day cooking with you."


    Placing her head on his chest, she snuggled closer, "Me too. Your dad is not exactly like I had heard he is."


    "Uh huh but my mother is exactly the same right?" he chuckled.


    "Well, I am not commenting on that."


    "Dad is strict in the place he is supposed to be but apart from that, he is really a very easy going man. I mean, he was very strict when we were kids but as we kept growing up, he started slowly cutting down his hard ways," Sebastian explained.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 256 - One legal murder

    Snuggling closer, Ellie smiled, "As long as he is understanding. Though your dad may seem like an unapproachable person, he is quite friendly."


    "Hmm maybe his ways were hard and not so pleasant but I have nothing to complain. Everyone learns things the hard way, right?" When she nodded her head, he wrapped his arms around her and closed his eyes. "Let''s rest for a few minutes, I feel so tired."


    Lifting her head, she shook her head. "We always fall asleep and end up over sleeping when we just close our eyes. I don''t think we should take any risk today."


    "It''s alright, I''ll set an alarm. We won''t be late today." Picking up his phone from the bedside table, he quickly set an alarm before pulling up the sheets.


    Snuggling closer, she closed her eyes. "You know how bad I am with alarms so it''s your duty to wake us up."


    "Don''t worry about it."


    ¡­..


    Two hours later.


    Groaning in frustration, Ellie pushed Sebastian away. "Stop that noise."


    Slowly opening his eyes, he sat up straight and ran his fingers through his messy hair. Taking a minute or two to take himself out of the ''Sleep: Where am I?'' phase, he realized that someone was knocking at the door.


    "Babe, someone is at the door." Glancing at the watch, he sighed. It was already half past six and the dinner party was scheduled at 7:00 pm. Kissing the top of her head, he stated, "El wake up, we need to get ready."


    "Five minutes," she groaned before burying her face on the pillow.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he made his way towards the door.


    Looking at her son who was still wearing the same clothes, Rebecca frowned, "Why aren''t you dressed yet?"


    "We were taking a nap. What happened?" he asked.


    "Vincent is here, he wants to see you."


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian snapped, "What is he doing here?"


    "What do you mean by that? He is your cousin, he just moved to L.A recently so I asked him to come over for dinner."


    "We will come down soon." After Rebecca left, he closed the door and entered the room again.


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, he thought for a while before picking up his and calling Noah.


    "Hey, we will be there soon and¡ª"


    "I did not call you to ask where you are Noah." Without waiting for his reply, he asked, "Did you know that Vincent is in town?"


    "Your cousin Vincent Lyson?"


    "Yes."


    "Hmm I didn''t know that, the last thing I heard was him being kicked out of the company he worked for because he misbehaved with a female colleague who was working under him." Widening his eyes in shock, Noah snapped, "Dude, we cannot give him a job in our company."


    "I know, I am never letting someone like him enter the company. Anyway, I just wanted to know whether it''s just me or even you and Ava didn''t know about his arrival."


    "I am sure Ava has no idea about this as well."


    "Hmm okay, I''ll see you later." After hanging up the call, he thought for a while before looking at Ellie who was still soundly sleeping. Moving close to her, he gently caressed her hair. "Babe, wake up."


    "What time is it?" she inquired without opening her eyes.


    "You just have twenty minutes to get ready," he answered.


    Widening her eyes in shock, she quickly jumped out of the bed. "Why didn''t you wake me up earlier?"


    "I woke when mom knocked the door, the alarm also went off so¡ª"


    "This is why I told you taking a nap was a bad idea." Taking out their clothes from the bag, she instructed, "Now go take a shower while I iron your clothes."


    Without saying anything, he followed her instructions and entered the washroom.


    ¡­..


    Outside the mansion.


    "Calvin, will you stop freaking out? This isn''t the first you are meeting mom and dad anyway," Ava snapped.


    "Yes I know that but this is the first time I am meeting them as their daughters boyfriend, it''s scary." he had been freaking out since the day Ava told him about the dinner party.


    Cupping his face, she tried to calm him down. "Listen to me, Ellie had never met them but she did okay. I am sure you are going to be fine as well."


    "You think?" When she nodded her head, he took a deep breath, "Alright, let''s do this."


    "Just be yourself, you don''t have to pretend to be someone you are not, okay?"


    "Okay, I can do this."


    "Ava, is that you? Wow, I almost did not recognize you."


    Looking at the person who just called her name out, Ava couldn''t help but roll her eyes. "What the hell are you doing here?"


    "Aunt Rebecca called me over for dinner, I heard about Noah''s engagement." Looking at Calvin, Vincent smiled, "It''s good to see you again."


    "Can''t say the same about you but well¡ª" Calvin snapped before smiling back.


    "I saw your pictures and aunt told me about you both as well. She was hoping you would hook up with Nathane but she is more upset with Sebastian than you. I heard he is dating his assistant who is average?" Vincent mocked.


    Narrowing her eyes, Ava scoffed, "You are so lucky that Sebastian is not here and also because I am wearing heels today but if you don''t stop talking shit, I''ll kick your ass what-so-ever." Without waiting for his reply, she grabbed Calvin''s hand and walked away.


    "He is still an ass," Calvin scoffed.


    "If one murder was legal, he would be my first and last choice," she stated.


    ¡­.


    Inside.


    "Ava, you are here." Giving her a hug, Rosy inquired, "How have you been and why didn''t you come to see us?"


    "I have been super busy these days, I have to join office from Monday so¡ª"


    "Yes, Sam was telling me about it yesterday." Gently caressing her head, Rosy encouraged her. "You are going to do great."


    "Of course she will, she is my daughter," Rebecca remarked.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 257 - Unexpected

    Ignoring her mother who was trying to act arrogant with Rosy again, Ava kept talking to her aunt. She knew how her mother despised Rosy, Noah''s mother because according to Rebecca, she didn''t belong to their so-called social status which was something that irked Ava. She never believed or followed the ''social status'' thing which her mother kept pressing on.


    Rosy had always been super sweet and supportive with both Sebastian and Ava, and that was the only thing that mattered.


    Looking around, Ava inquired, "Where is uncle Sam?"


    "He is with your father in the study room, they are discussing something." Without waiting for Ava''s reply, Rosy accused herself, "I have something to do in the kitchen, I''ll be right back."


    After Rosy left, Ava grabbed Calvin''s hand and looked at her mother. "I hope you are okay." Without waiting for her reply, she added, "You already know Calvin."


    "Of course, how can I forget?" Looking at him, Rebecca gave him a weak smile. "I hope you are doing great Calvin."


    "Yes, everything is going great recently." Giving her a bag, he added, "I brought these for you and uncle."


    Taking it from his hands, Rebecca looked at Ava. "Can I talk to you for a second alone?"


    Placing his hand on Ava''s waist, Calvin remarked, "I will step out for a bit to make a phone call, okay?" Kissing her forehead, he smiled, "Don''t miss me."


    After he left, Rebecca crossed her arms in the front. "Since how long is this going on?"


    "Almost ten months," she answered.


    "And when were you planning to tell me about it?" When Ava did not say anything, Rebecca snapped, "I thought you had something to do with Nath¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ava retorted, "No mom, you wanted me to have something with that guy. Trust me, I would not choose him even if he is the last guy on this planet or the entire universe." Without waiting for her reply, she added, "I already told dad what needs to be said you should go and ask him and I am sorry for tagging you both in that picture, I know I shouldn''t have done that. But to be very clear in the very beginning and also to avoid confusion, Calvin is the man I wanna be with and nobody can change that."


    Before Rebecca could say anything, Arthur and Samuel arrived.


    "You are here." Looking around, Arthur asked, "You came alone?"


    "No dad, Calvin is outside." Giving him and Samuel a hug simultaneously, Ava added, "He is making a phone call."


    "Why didn''t you join us for cooking today? We had so much fun," Arthur stated.


    "What? No one told me anything about cooking, when did that happen?" she frowned.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Samuel sighed, "Don''t worry honey, you''re not the only one who missed it. No one told me about that fun activity until it was all done."


    "The chef took a day off so we all gathered together and made all the dishes. I made the apple pie with Ellie''s help," Arthur remarked.


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ava inquired, "Ellie came here already? Where is she?"


    "She must be with Sebastian in his room." When he saw them coming down the stairs, he remarked, "There they are."


    "El, why didn''t you call me for the fun activity you guys had today?" Ava complained.


    "Because we didn''t want our precious kitchen to burn down," Sebastian remarked.


    Puffing her cheeks, Ava snapped, "Dad, Seb is bullying me again."


    "Seb, what did we talk about bullying your little sister?" Arthur inquired in a very firm tone.


    "Pffft little? Ava is no more little uncle Arthur, in fact I think she has increased some weight," Noah remarked.


    "Noah stop teasing your sister, you are going to get married soon, show some maturity," Samuel chided his son.


    "Well, seems like the entire family is here." Walking inside the mansion, Vincent smirked, "It''s good you see everyone again and¡ª" looking at Ellie, he added, "I see a new face."


    "Are you trying to say that our face is old?" Raising his brows, Arthur remarked, "Is this how you greet your elders?"


    "Uncle I¡ª"


    Cutting Vincent off, Rebecca quickly said, "Honey, he did not mean it that way."


    "I think he meant exactly what we are thinking." Looking at her father, Ava added, "Dad, he is calling you and uncle Sam old."


    Looking at Melissa, Vincent smiled, "Here is the would be bride, I never thought you both would make it this far."


    "I also never expected you to still be the same. I mean, aren''t you jobless currently? I thought you would be depressed after getting kicked out from such a great job but well, it''s nice that you are still positive." Wrapping her arms around Naoh''s waist, Melissa added, "I guess unexpected things are happening these days."


    The sudden change in Vincent''s expression did not go unnoticed by everyone present in the room. Melissa''s blunt words hit him hard but he could do nothing. There was a reason why he was back in L.A and picking up a fight with her or anyone present in this room wouldn''t help.


    "Oh my God, I think Vincent''s ass is burning because Melissa just roasted him so bad," Ava chortled before bursting into laughter.


    "Ava," Rebecca snapped before glaring at her.


    Forcing himself to smile in front of everyone, Vincent remarked, "Well, everyone has to stay positive no matter how dark the days are, right Sebastian?" Walking towards them, he added, "Won''t you introduce me to this beautiful woman you are hiding in your arms?"


    Pulling Ellie closer, Sebastian smiled, "Though I don''t want to but since you insist¡ª" Looking at Ellie, he explained, "El, he is Vincent my cousin and she is Ellie my girlfriend."


    "I must say, you are really very beautiful. No wonder Seb disregarded everything just to be with you." Extending his hand towards her, Vincent smirked, "It''s a pleasure to meet you."


    But before Ellie could take his hand, Sebastian extended his hand. Tightening his grip around Vincent''s hand, he remarked, "Let me take it for her, she just washed her hand."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 258 - D.O.P.E

    Wrapping her arms around Sebastian''s, Ellie whispered, "I''ll go help aunt Rosy in the kitchen."


    Letting go off Vincent''s hand, he answered, "Okay, I''ll join you soon."


    After Ellie left, Ava and Melissa quickly followed her inside the kitchen while Sebastian ignored Vincent''s presence and started talking with Noah and Calvin.


    After making sure no one was looking at them, Rebecca dragged Vincent to a corner.


    "Aunty¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Rebecca snapped, "Shut up, did I call you here to create trouble? Why are you trying to mess around with Sebastian and Noah when you know they are the only ones who can help you get a job in the company."


    "I did not do anything, didn''t you see how they are treating me? Especially that Melissa and Seb." Looking at his hand, he frowned, "My hand is not even dirty and what does he think? Is that side chick of his made up of diamond or something like that? He insulted me in front of her like I was nothing."


    Placing her hand on his shoulder, she tried to calm him down. "Listen to me Vincent, right now Sebastian is smitten by that woman, I am sure he will be back to normal once he gets bored of her or when this so-called relationship gets old. But right now, she is the most important part of his life so be careful when you deal or behave with her. As Melissa is concerned, there is nothing we can do because she is Noah''s fianc¨¦e so just endure her and everything else at the moment. After you get a job in the company, everything will be okay."


    "I am trying my best to behave but they are ones who keep provoking me, even Ava keeps taunting me for little things," Vincent complained.


    Patting his head, Rebecca sighed, "Everything is going to be okay, just be patient. I am being patient too."


    "Why don''t you just throw her out? Sebastian always listens to you and does what you tell him, why are tolerating all of this?"


    "Because it''s not easy, Seb is totally into that woman." Gritting her teeth, she snapped, "I don''t know what kind of spell she cast on my son."


    "I am not gonna lie but she is really beautiful, maybe that is why he is head over heels for her." Helplessly shaking his head, he smirked, "I know these kinds of women really well."


    "Anyway, I don''t want anyone else to see us. We need to join the other soon and be careful when you talk to everyone. I am telling you one more time Vincent, don''t do anything stupid," Rebecca warned.


    Vincent Nylop was Rebecca''s younger sister''s son. He was of Sebastian''s age and was known for his sly ways. His reputation with women was as dull as his future. Vincent was a womanizer who treated women like toys. He was seen entering the hotel rooms with different women every other night.


    Apart from his womanizing ways, Sebastian and the rest hated how arrogant and irritating Vincent was. Even Sebastian who was known for his patients and polite ways couldn''t tolerate him let alone Ava and Noah who weren''t patient at all.


    After losing his job as a senior department head from a corporate company, Vincent had nothing to do and kept loitering around. He was mercilessly kicked out of the company for trying to s.e.x.u.a.l assault a young woman of his department. Because of his bad reputation, he did not get a job anywhere so his only last resort was working in Stewart International and Group.


    ...


    Kitchen


    "Girl that was so D.O.P.E, did you see that look on his face when you slammed him with your words." Groaning in satisfaction, Ava beamed, "I would give up anything to see that look on that bastard''s face again."


    "Ava don''t say that, he is your cousin," Rosy stated.


    "Aunt Rosy you know how Vincent is, I just can''t tolerate him."


    "Who is he exactly?" Ellie curiously asked. She also did not like Vincent even though it was the first time they had met. The vibe around him felt very negative and dark so she decided to keep a safe distance from him.


    "He is mom''s sister''s only son, he is a spoiled brat," Ava answered.


    "Hmm did not get a good vibe from him so¡ªI don''t know," Ellie added.


    "I never got any positive vibe from him either, he is full of negativity. He always tries to mock Noah and my relationship but I shut him up with my words," Melissa explained.


    Shoving a piece of olive inside her mouth, Ava remarked, "He is an ass, don''t pay attention to his actions."


    ¡­..


    Dining area.


    "So when have you both decided the date?" Arthur inquired.


    Noah shook his head and answered, "No uncle not yet."


    "We will be flying to Seattle after they both come back from their pre-honeymoon trip," Samuel added.


    "You and Rebecca should also join us when we go to Seattle, what do you think?" Rosy suggested.


    "Rosy is right, it will be nice if all of us go there and you haven''t met Melissa''s parents yet," Samuel explained.


    Arthur nodded his head in agreement. "Yes, I like that idea and while we are at it, I will also get a chance to meet Ellie''s parents." Looking at her, he added, "I heard you both are neighbors."


    Giving him a weak smile, Ellie nodded her head.


    "So you are from Seattle, I heard it''s a beautiful place." Gently brushing his shoulders against Ellie''s, Vincent added, "I would love to see Seattle as well."


    Slowly scrunching her brows, she moved towards Sebastian. The sudden contact with him irked her, she wanted to move as far away from him.


    Sensing her awkwardness, Sebastian wrapped his arms around her shoulder. "Honey, do you mind switching places with me?"


    "Of course not."


    "Great¡ª"Getting up, he helped Ellie stand up before pulling the other chair for her. "I am feeling so uncomfortable here."


    When he sat down on her chair, Ellie extended her hand to exchange their plates but Sebastian stopped her.


    "It''s alright." Pointing towards the plate he was eating from, he instructed, "Finish those vegetables."


    Cupping her cheeks, Ava sighed, "Isn''t it just great seeing our Seb like this? I mean just look at him, he is completely drowned in love."


    "I guess we need to send a lifeguard to rescue him, you know drag him out of that love," Vincent chuckled.


    "No thanks, I prefer drowning," Sebastian smiled.


    "So Vincent, how is everything going?" Samuel inquired.


    "Everything is fantastic as always," he stated.


    Taking a sip of the wine, Arthur asked, "How did you get out of the lawsuit that was filed against you?" When Vincent did not say anything, he added, "The one which the company you worked for filed against you for misbehaving with a female employee."


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, he answered, "They did not file any lawsuit against me."


    Raising his brows, Noah scoffed, "What a useless company, if someone would have done something like that in our company, he would have been rotting in jail by now. In fact, Seb and I are planning to revise the clauses and make them even more intense, especially the part which includes the s.e.x.u.a.l assaultation part."


    "That is right, the legal team is working on that already," Sebastian added.


    Noticing the change in her nephew''s expression, Rebecca quickly jumped to his rescue. "The company did not do anything because they found out it wasn''t Vincent''s fault."


    "Really? Then why was he kicked out?" Samuel inquired.


    "I was given the job back but I rejected it, I didn''t want to work in such an atmosphere," Vincent explained.


    "That is true, you shouldn''t work in such a place which doesn''t value you," Rebecca stated.


    "Yes but now I am looking for a job." Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "It''s tough getting one."


    "Don''t worry honey, you will get one soon." Pausing for a while, Rebecca added, "Maybe Seb and Noah can help you find something in the company."


    "We recruited a bunch of employees last week, so currently we are full." Noah stated.


    "Unless you want to work as an intern." Looking at Noah, Melissa asked, "Babe, aren''t we open for interns?"


    ¡­..


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:


    As many of you know that Trapped in her heart was a part of THE SPIRITY AWARDS 2020. The results are already out and I am glad to inform everyone that Trapped has been nominated and won the nomination prize. ^_^


    To be honest, I wasn''t expecting that it would even get nominated but thanks to all my readers, it wouldn''t have been possible without your constant support. You guys are the ones who always keep me motivated.


    We started this journey almost nine months ago and now it''s slowly coming to its end. Let''s stay together and enjoy the blissful ending of this novel as well ?.


    Hope to see each and everyone of you when I start my new books as well :)


    Lots of hugs and kisses,


    Sofia ?


    ¡­.

 Chapter 259 - Average girl

    "Yes we are." Looking at Vincent, Noah asked in all seriousness. "I don''t think you wanna be an intern and start everything again."


    "Noah, stopped fooling around with Vincent," Rosy remarked.


    Shrugging his shoulder, Noah sighed, "Mom I am just trying to help him out."


    "We don''t have any vacancy now, we will do what can be done when someone resigns or gets transferred," Sebastian explained.


    "Alright, I will wait for your response then. I hope you won''t forget¡ª" Looking at Ellie, Vincent smiled, "I hope Ellie will help me remind you about it."


    "Of course she will, that is the job of an assistant afterall," Rebecca remarked.


    "I don''t know what Ellie does but as Noah''s assistant, I always push down things or people that annoy me," Melissa snapped.


    Taking a sip of the wine, Ellie smiled, "I do the same, in fact I don''t just push it down, I completely erase it from my to-do or reminder list."


    "People say that the boss is the most important person in the office and no one should piss him off but to be precise, it is the boss'' assistant who holds more power. She is the one who takes acre of the appointment and reminds the boss about each and everything." Looking at Vincent, Samuel smiled, "Piss an assistant and you will be unknown forever."


    Giving him a weak smile, Vincent slowly nodded his head. "I will keep that in mind."


    ¡­..


    The dinner party ended on a very peaceful note. Everyone had a really fun time except for two people who were sulking in a corner.


    Holding a wine glass in his hand, Vincent was continuously staring at Ellie who was busy talking with Arthur and Samuel.


    "Don''t even think of doing anything absurd with her. I am telling you Vincent, the day you lay your hands on that woman, even I cannot save you or your career," Rebecca snapped.


    "You worry too much aunty, I am not doing anything. Can''t I just look at something just to warm my eyes?" he smirked.


    "What is there to look at? She is just an average girl," she scoffed.


    Taking a sip of his wine, he smirked, "She is definitely more than just average."


    When Ellie stepped out for a bit to use the restroom, Vincent quickly kept his glass on the table and slowly followed her.


    "I''ll be right back," he stated before walking away.


    "Vincent¡ª" Rebecca stopped midway and gritted her teeth when Vincent ignored her warning and left. She knew exactly how her nephew''s character was but she still wanted to help him out because of her sister. She also knew that Sebastian and Noah would never want to give him a job in the company but she still wanted to force him in.


    ¡­..


    Upstairs.


    Sebastian''s room.


    When Ellie stepped out of the room, she bumped into Vincent at the door. Taking a couple of steps backwards, she frowned. She already hated the vibe he was giving out and the way he kept looking at her made her feel uncomfortable but she decided to tolerate him because he was Sebastian''s cousin.


    "I heard that you were the one who did the major cooking today? The food was really very delicious." Looking at her hands, he smirked, "I am sure you are delicious¡ªI mean your hands are delicious too."


    "We all did the cooking together so the credit goes to each one of us," she answered.


    "Well, I want to give you all the credit," he chuckled.


    "I need to go down, will you please step away?" she snapped.


    Taking a step towards her, he smiled, "What is the rush Ellie? I would love to have your company. I mean you are cousins girlfriend, we should also share a nice bond right?"


    Ellie was about to say something when Calvin stepped into the room. "Why don''t you first try to strengthen your bond with Sebastian and then try to bond with Seb''s girlfriend."


    Walking towards her, Calvin stood right beside her. "Or why don''t you try and bond with her in my presence?"


    When Vincent did not say anything, he remarked, "El you should go down first, Seb is looking for you."


    Without saying anything, Vincent stepped aside allowing her to leave.


    After she was nowhere to be seen, Calvin took a couple of steps forward. "Now listen to me you dingus, you better not try to use your cheap and dirty methods here. It''s a joyous occasion today so I don''t wanna create a scene and you know what will happen if I tell Seb what you are actually trying to do, right? So you better watch out and keep your bonding all by yourself."


    Without waiting for his reply, Calvin walked out of the room.


    ¡­.


    Downstairs.


    When Ellie rushed downstairs, Sebastian was waiting for her near the stairs.


    "Babe, where did you go?"


    "I went to your room to use the restroom," she informed.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian inquired, "Are you okay? What happened?"


    Just then Calvin walked down the stairs and stopped right beside Ellie. He was about to say something when she stopped him midway.


    "I got scared in the restroom alone so I ran down," she quickly answered.


    Knocking her forehead, Sebastian chuckled, "Silly, I will accompany you next time, okay? I will get the car, meanwhile you can say goodbye to everyone."


    When she nodded her head, Sebastian left.


    "What the hell El? Why didn''t you tell him?" Calvin frowned.


    "Cal, you know how Seb is, he will definitely overreact and that will affect the entire environment. I will talk to him when I get a chance at home but not here," she explained.


    "Please do, when you are uncomfortable with something or someone you have to tell Sebastian about it," Calvin sighed.


    "I will but not here."


    ¡­..


    Next day.


    Park.


    "Hmm did you talk to Seb about it?" Markus inquired.


    "He was too tired yesterday will all the cooking and then the dinner party, I wanted him to rest," Ellie answered.


    "And when are you planning to tell him about it?"


    "Today, he is out for an important meeting with an overseas client. I have to stay at the office and handle everything there. I will talk to him as soon as he comes back," she sighed.


    Giving her a hug, Markus patted her head. "Everything is fine, just talk to Seb about it."


    "It just feels so weird Markus, I don''t know what is happening."


    "Stop stressing over it and relax and let Sebastian handle the situation."


    ¡­..


    Stewart International and Group.


    Evening.


    "Why are you still at the office?" Sebastian frowned.


    Putting the phone on speaker mode, Ellie started packing her things. I am leaving, how did the meeting go?"


    "It went well, how is your headache?"


    "It''s alright." Pausing for a while, she added, "Seb, I need to talk to you about something important."


    "What is it honey?"


    "Why don''t you meet me at home and then we can talk properly?" she suggested.


    "Sure, I will be home in fifteen minutes. Go safe, okay?"


    "Hmm drive safe." After hanging up the call, Ellie rushed out of her office. She yelped and leaped backwards when she bumped into someone.


    "You seem to be in a hurry," Vincent smiled.


    Scrunching her brows, she snapped, "What are you doing here?"


    "I am here to see Seb, your boss c.u.m lover and also my cousin," he chuckled before stepping into the office.


    "Well he isn''t here, come tomorrow if you wanna see him." Without waiting for his reply, she started walking out of the room.


    Grabbing her wrist, Vincent smirked, "What is the rush Ms.Miller?"


    "Let go of my hand."


    Tightening her grip around her wrist, he smiled, "What if I don''t?"


    Ellie winced in pain when the sharp edges of his ring pierced into her skin. Twisting her wrist, she tried to free herself from his grasp but he kept tightening his grip until her blood started dripping on the ground.


    Tightening her grip on the sling of her bag which she was holding in her other hand, she jerked it and slammed it on his face, completely startling him.


    When he staggered backwards and loosening his grip, she pushed him away and ran out of the office.


    The office timing was long over so the building was almost over with only a few employees working over time.


    Without looking at anybody, Ellie quickly stepped into the elevator and pressed the button. When the elevator opened on the ground floor, she rushed outside and stepped inside the cab that was waiting for her.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s and Ellie''s apartment.


    When Ellie entered the apartment, Sebastian had already arrived and was busy petting the dogs.


    "Look mommy is also¡ª" Scrunching his brows, he quickly got up and rushed towards her. Placing his hand on her shoulder, he snapped, "Ellie what happened? Why are you crying?"


    Before she could say anything, he widened his eyes in shock when he saw her bleeding wrist. "How did this happen?" he yelled.


    Wrapping her arms around his waist, she buried her face on his chest before bursting into tears.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 260 - Angry

    Sebastian''s heart sank when she started crying in his embrace. He had never seen her in such a vulnerable state before and he could easily guess something wasn''t right. Tightening his grip around her, he panic strikingly inquired, "Ellie, what happened?"


    When she did not say anything, he quickly pulled away and guided her towards the couch. Gently nudging her to sit down, he quickly rushed towards the kitchen to get a glass of water for her.


    Sitting beside her, he placed his hand on her back. "Here, drink some water first and tell me what happened." Looking at her injured arm, he clenched his teeth, "And who did this."


    "I¡ªI was about to leave my office when Vincent arrived and¡ª"


    When Sebastian heard Vincent''s name, his expression darkened. He had the audacity to touch his woman in his territory, this was surely the end for him.


    Wiping her tears away, she added, "He even tried to corner me yesterday wbut Calvin arrived right on time and¡ª"


    "Why didn''t you tell me about it that time?" Sebastian yelled. His muscles clenched and the anger inside him kept growing, he couldn''t wait to break Vincent''s bones and make him realize that no one has the right to touch Sebastian Stewart''s woman.


    "I-I was going to tell you about it today but¡ª"


    Pulling her into his embrace, he closed his eyes. "Stop crying first, I am here with you." After her sobs started getting softer and she finally calmed down, he kissed her forehead and grabbed her other arm. "Come with me, let''s go."


    "Where?"


    Without saying anything, he guided her towards the elevator.


    ...


    Sebastian''s Car.


    Taking out a clean handkerchief from his pocket, he gave it to. "Place it on your hand, I''ll treat your wound as soon as we reach there."


    "W-Where are we going?"


    "He dared to touch you, I am going to show that bastard his right place," he snarled before punching the steering wheel.


    Startled by his sudden aggressive action, Ellie gasped. She had never seen Sebastian so angry. Though she knew someone had to teach Vincent a lesson, she didn''t want Sebastian to do something extreme.


    Placing her hand on his arm, she was about to say something when he stopped her.


    "Ellie please, don''t touch me or say anything right now," he snapped before stepping on the gas.


    ¡­.


    Sebastian''s parents mansion.


    "Stay here," Sebastian instructed before stepping out of the car. He slammed the door shut and rushed inside the mansion.


    "Seb wait," Ellie called him out but before she could even get out of the car, he was nowhere to be seen.


    Contemplating whether she should go inside or wait for him to come back, she nervously started pacing back and forth near the car.


    ¡­..


    Inside.


    Dashing into the mansion, Sebastian yelled, "Vincent."


    Startled by his sudden appearance, Rebecca quickly got up and approached her son. "Seb, what happened? Why do you look so angry?"


    Ignoring her question, he angrily inquired, "Where is Vincent?"


    "He just came back, he is inside his room. Seb what¡ª"


    Without waiting for her to finish her question, he angrily rushed towards Vincent''s room.


    Before Rebecca could figure out what was wrong, she saw Sebastian drag Vincent out of the room by his collar.


    "Sebastian what are you¡ª" Before he could complete his sentence, a punch landed straight on his face.


    Pinning him against the wall, Sebastian tightened his grip around his collar. "How dare you touch her?"


    ¡­..


    Outside.


    "Ellie, what happened? What are you doing here?" Melissa nervously inquired. Looking at the blood stained white handkerchief, she widened her eyes in shock. "This¡ªwhat happened?"


    "Where is Sebastian?" Noah frowned.


    "H-He went inside, Noah he is very angry and¡ª"


    "Calm down El, I''ll go and see what happened." Without wasting any time, Noah rushed inside the mansion while Melissa accompanied Ellie.


    ¡­.


    Inside.


    When Noan entered the mansion, Vincent was pinned against the wall and Sebastian was punching him all over his face. Rebecca on the other hand was trying very hard to stop her son but nothing worked.


    Without wasting any time, he quickly rushed towards Sebastian. Grabbing his arm, he frowned, "Seb what are you doing?" Looking at Vincent''s face which was covered in blood, he added, "You are going to kill him."


    "Let go of me Noah, I am going to kill this bastard today." Jerking Noah''s hand away, Sebastian threw Vincent on the ground and started kicking him mercilessly.


    "Hey, stop. What are you doing Seb? Are you planning to kill him?" Noah grabbed his waist from behind and pulled him away from Vincent.


    "Let me go, you don''t know what he has done," Sebastian yelled.


    Scrunching his brows, Noah inquired, "What did he do?"


    "He tried to lay his dirty hands on Ellie, my Ellie," he snarled.


    "He did what?" Letting go off Sebstian''s waist, Noah scoffed before glaring at Vincent who was groaning in pain. "You sure had the nerve to do something like that, you filthy dingus." Kicking him in his stomach, Noah snarled, "You are surely not leaving this place in one piece today."


    Just then, Ellie and Melissa entered the mansion. When they saw both Noah and Sebastian kucing and throwing punches at Vincent, they were shocked.


    Rushing towards them, Melissa quickly grabbed Noah''s arm and tried to pull him away. "Stop it Noah, what is wrong with you?"


    "Let me go Mel, you don''t know what he did with Ellie," Noah yelled.


    "Stop it, he already is bleeding so much," Melissa yelled.


    Before Rebecca could rush to stop Sebastian, Ellie grabbed his arm and tried to pull him away.


    "Sebastian stop it," she yelled.


    Jerking her hand off, he kept beating him without caring about anything else.


    Looking at Vincent who was covered in blood in a half conscious state, she panicked and quickly hugged Sebastian from behind.


    "Please stop," she yelled before bursting into tears.


    Stopping his movements midway, Sebastian balled his hands into a fist. Turning towards her, he pulled her into his embrace. Without sparing a glance at Vincent, he instructed, "Call the guards and throw him out of the mansion."


    "What is wrong with you Sebastian? Vincent is still your cousin, you can''t do this. I won''t allow¡ª"


    "Didn''t you hear what your young master said? Where are the guards?" Arthur yelled.


    "Arthur, what are you doing? How can you¡ª"


    "Enough, I won''t allow these kinds of behavior here. I have been tolerating him because he is your sister''s son but he has crossed all his lines today. He dared to lay his hands on your son''s woman, how can you still take his side?" Arthur yelled at Rebecca.


    Just then the guards arrived and took Vincent away.


    "Get his wound treated in some infirmary and make sure he doesn''t return back to this mansion ever again," Arthur ordered.


    Guiding Ellie towards the couch, Sebastian sloley pushed her down. "Get me the first aid box," he instructed before gently removing the handkerchief.


    "You don''t have to worry, I am fine¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he scrunched his brows and yelled at her, "How can you say that you are fine? Can''t you see the blood that is still dripping off your wrist? Are you blind?"


    Startled by his sudden yelling, Ellie shivered before slowly moving away from him. This was the first time he had yelled at her and she wasn''t liking the feeling. Her heart felt heavy, she couldn''t control her tears which kept oozing out of her eyes.


    Pinching the space in between his brows, he took a deep breath to calm himself down. He wasn''t angry with Ellie, he could never be angry with her. In fact, he was more angry with himself than Vincent. What was the use of calling himself her man when he couldn''t even protect her?


    Pulling her into his embrace, he sighed, "I am sorry, I shouldn''t have yelled at you like that." Kissing the top of her head, he added, "I promise I won''t repeat this."


    "You yelled at me twice today." Smacking his arm, she complained, "You are so mean."


    "I am sorry, I swear it won''t happen again."


    Wiping her tears with his tie, she remarked, "It''s okay, I forgive you."


    "Young master, the first aid box¡ª"


    Taking it from the helpers hand, he quickly disinfected her would before applying some medicine and then covering it with a gauge. Gently brushing his fingers on her cheeks, he smiled, "Let''s go home now, okay?"


    Ellie nodded her head and quickly got up along with Sebastian. He wrapped her hand around her shoulder and started walking out of the mansion along with Melissa and Noah.


    "Stop right there Sebastian Stewart," Rebecca yelled before approaching them.


    Turning around to face his mother along with Ellie, he gently pulled her closer.


    "What kind of behavior was that? How could you act like a holligon? Vincent is your cousin, you could have solved it over a decent conversation and¡ª"


    "Decent conversation? You want me to have a decent conversation with someone who dared to lay his dirty hands my woman?" Sebastian scoffed.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 261 - My family

    "He is family, you can''t disregard your family members for some outsider," Rebecca snapped, drawing a clear line with Ellie. No matter what happens, she would never accept Ellie as a family member.


    "Ellie is family too, she is my family." Taking a step towards his mother, Sebastian declared, "She is the woman I love, my better half and if anyone has a problem accepting that then I don''t give a damn about it. Family or not, if anyone tries to harm or misbehave with her, I will not let that person off." Narrowing his eyes, he stated, "Not even you, mother."


    Clutching onto his coat, Ellie slowly pulled him back. She didn''t want him to start a fight with his mother because of her.


    Turning towards her, he kissed her forehead. He then held her hand and walked out of the mansion together, ending the conversation with his mother.


    Balling her hand into a fist, Rebecca could only silently watch her son walk out of the mansion. This was the first time her son had raised his voice in front of her and that too for an outsider.


    Sitting on the couch, she pinched the space between her brows before closing her eyes.


    "You should be happy instead of sad," Arthur remarked before sitting beside her. When Rebecca glared at him, he added, "You have raised a man who knows how to respect women. Not only is our son successful and responsible but he is also a gentleman who knows how he is supposed to treat his woman."


    Patting her shoulder, he sighed, "I know you are upset about your nephew but he got what he deserved. He had no right to disrespect Ellie or any other women. And how can you expect our son to tolerate such a behavior?" Getting up, he added, "Now get up and freshen up quickly, let''s have dinner."


    ¡­.


    Outside.


    "Didn''t you go in to stop Seb and control the situation," Melissa frowned at her fiance who was complaining about his cramped back.


    "Yes I did but when Seb told me what had exactly happened, I couldn''t control my emotions and anger. How dare he do something like that?" Massaging his back, Noah sighed, "My back hurts but it was all worth it."


    "Give me the car keys, I''ll drive us home." Looking at Noah and Sebastian simultaneously, Melissa added, "Though I am proud of you both, this is not the way you are supposed to behave. You both would have seriously killed him if Ellie and I hadn''t stopped you."


    "I agree with Mel, violence never works." Looking at Sebastian''s bruised knuckles, Ellie sighed, "You always end up hurting yourself as well."


    "Alright, let''s not talk about it anymore." Running his fingers through her hair, Sebastian added, "Let''s go home."


    ¡­..


    Sebastian and Ellie''s place.


    After taking a nice hot bubble bath, Ellie cuddled beside Sebastian and placed her head on his chest.


    "Let me get the first aid box." Before he could get up, she tightened her grip around his waist, refusing to let go.


    Snuggling closer, she remarked, "Let''s stay like this for some time," before closing her eyes. It was a very tough and stressful day for both of them, especially for Ellie. All she wanted was to live a peaceful life with Sebastian and their family, was that too much to ask? Today when Rebecca drew a clear line with her, she realized it would be very difficult for Rebecca to accept her which made her feel a bit sad and disappointed.


    Gently caressing her back, he inquired, "What are you thinking?" When she did not say anything, he kissed the back of hand. "You can talk to me."


    "It''s nothing, I just think that your mom hates me even more now."


    "Don''t think about that, just give her some time. If she is okay with it before we get married then it''s nice otherwise, we don''t have to care," he answered.


    "You shouldn''t have talked to her that way, she is your mother afterall."


    "Didn''t you hear what she said about you?" he frowned.


    Placing her chin on his chest, she remarked, "But what she told is true, I am not a part of your family yet."


    "How can you say that Ellie? You are my family, in fact you are the one I wanna start my own family with." Knocking her forehead, he frowned, "Don''t say that again, I won''t talk to you if you do."


    Pulling his cheeks, she chuckled, "You are too cute honey, I love you."


    "I love you more." Getting up, he added, "Let me get the first aid box."


    "Check on Bojo and Boji as well," she instructed.


    Just then the two munchkins entered the room, wagging their tails in excitement.


    "Don''t jump into the bed," Sebastian warned them.


    Disregarding their daddy''s warning, they jumped into the bed and started cuddling with their mama, the only person who could save them from their father''s wrath.


    Wrapping her arms around them, Ellie chuckled, "Well, I guess we have to share our bed with our cuties."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "They never listen to me when you are around, you have spoiled them a lot."


    "As if you don''t spoil them," she retorted.


    "I''ll go get the first aid box first."


    ...


    Monday.


    Stewart International Group.


    Ellie and Melissa''s office.


    Slamming her fist on the table angrily, Ava gritted her teeth. "I cannot believe that d.i.c.khead tried to make a move on you, I am so glad Seb and Noah kicked his ass hard."


    "And I am glad they did not end up killing him or something serious did not happen." Breathing a sigh of relief, Melissa added, "Imagine our marriage being postponed because the groom ended up in the jail."


    "Then we could have a jail themed wedding, that would be so much fun," Ava chuckled.


    "Oh please don''t say that, I want a simple but very beautiful wedding."


    "Ava, isn''t this your first day in the office?" When she nodded her head, Ellie inquired, "Which department will you be working for?"


    ¡­.

 Chapter 262 - Best brothers

    Taking a sip of her coffee, Ava shook her head, "I have no idea, I hope Seb and Noah will choose the right department."


    "What about you? Which department do you wanna work for?" Ellie inquired.


    "Honestly, no department peaks my interest. I am not into business at all but well, mom just forced me to do the course and I had no choice but to comply with it."


    Scrunching her brows, she remarked, "If you are not interested then why don''t you tell them?''


    "Exactly, I am sure Seb and Noah will definitely understand," Melissa added.


    "I am sure they will but that is not the point. I am destined to work in this company and that is what I am doing right now. I don''t wanna make my parents mad by doing something outrageous again," Ava explained.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie inquired, "So what do you actually wanna do?"


    "I have always been interested in event management, in fact I secretly did a course too." Helplessly shaking her head, Ava sighed, "What a waste of certificate."


    "That is so cool Ava, you should disregard what others will think of you and just pursue your dream," Melissa suggested.


    "It''s alright, sometimes you gotta do what you are supposed to." Glancing at the watch, she gasped, "Oopsie, I am late for appointment with my two capable brothers." Grabbing her bag, Ava added, "You both are coming with me, right?"


    "Of course, let''s go together."


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s office.


    When Ava entered the office, Sebastian raised his brows. "You are five minutes late."


    Rolling her eyes, Ava crossed her hand in the front. "Stop being so bossy already, don''t forget that even I have some shares of this company in my name."


    When both Noah and Sebastian raised their brows, she puffed her cheeks. "Don''t give me that look, I was just talking to Ellie and Melissa.??


    "Sit down," Sebastian instructed before picking up a file from the table.


    "Girl, sometimes when I look at these two handsome hunks I feel like we made the best choice ever," Melissa whispered to Ellie who was standing right beside her.


    "I know right?" Ellie beamed in agreement.


    Looking at their serious expression, Ava frowned, "Why are you both giving me such a deadly stare?" Pointing at the file Sebastian was holding which had all her certificates, she added, "It''s not like something is wrong with my certificate, they are very much real."


    "We know they are real but we are not interested in them." Taking the file from Sebastian''s hand, Noah gave it to her.


    "Wait what?" Ava frowned. She had no idea what was going on in her brother''s heads.


    "We don''t want them because the department we are putting you in needs different certifications and qualifications." Before she could say anything, Sebastian added, "We want you to fish out your event management certificate from wherever you have been hiding it."


    Widening her eyes in shock, Ava snapped, "You both know about that?"


    "Come on Ava you used my card to pay half of the fee and Noah''s for the other half," he sighed.


    "What makes you think we don''t check our monthly statement?" Noah raised his brows.


    "I¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian explained, "We will give you a day to find your certificate and submit it in the office."


    "After submitting it, you can join the office as the head of the event management department," Noah stated.


    Squealing in excitement, Ava threw her hand in her mouth. "W-What? You are making me the head of the event management department?"


    "Yes, the current head will be retiring next week. You have to work under her for a week and learn everything as soon as possible."


    Jumping in excitement, Ava pounced between them and gave them a hug. "You both are the best brother''s in the whole world. I love you both."


    Wincing in pain, Noah remarked, "Don''t jump at me like that, my back still hurts."


    Rolling her eyes, she scoffed, "You sound like an old man."


    "Did you just call me an old man? Do you want me to shift you to some boring department?" Noah frowned.


    Rubbing her cheek against his arm, Ava grinned, "Of course not, my brother is so handsome and young."


    "Good."


    Without wasting any more time, she quickly got up and grabbed her bag. "I''ll go and look for my certificate and be back by afternoon."


    "Listen, you also have to manage the company Gala which is scheduled next week. That is going to be your first project, I know you can do it," Sebastian explained.


    Giving him a hug, she smiled, "Thank you much, I promise I won''t let you both down."


    Patting her head, he remarked, "Alright now you can go."


    Rushing towards Ellie and Melissa, she squealed and gave them a hug. "Drinks on me tonight, okay?" Without waiting for their reply, Ava rushed out of the room.


    Walking towards Noah, Melissa helped him up. "Let''s go, I''ll help you apply some ointment on that."


    After they left, Ellie hooked her arms around Sebastian''s neck. "You really are the best brother."


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, he smiled, "Only best brother? What about the best boyfriend tag?"


    "Hmm I''ll have to think about that."


    "Okay, let''s think together." Kissing her nape, he started trailing kisses down her neck.


    "Seb, I need to work," she chuckled.


    "We are working right now, we are working on making our love stronger," he answered before sitting on the couch and placing her in his lap.


    "Alright, I guess I can squeeze in fifteen minutes from my busy schedule," she smiled.


    "Are you kidding me? Fifteen minutes?" he frowned.


    Booping his nose, she chuckled, "Mr.CEO in case you have forgotten, you have many meetings scheduled today."


    Thinking for a while, he remarked, "Maybe it''s time to rearrange my schedule again. Make sure that the new schedule has at least a couple of hours free when I can spend some quality time with my girlfriend."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 263 - Quality time

    Pinching his nose, she chuckled, "You already spend too much quality time with your girlfriend."


    "All I can say is it''s not enough, I need more quality time with my girlfriend," he explained.


    When he pouted his lips, she couldn''t help but squeeze his lower lips. "Alright now stop making that face, I''ll try to reschedule everything but right now we have a meeting, okay?"


    Groaning in frustration, he complained, "You have become just like the old grumpy Sebastian." Without waiting for her reply, he added, "I''ll attend the meeting if you promise to cuddle with me after lunch for some time."


    "I promised Markus that I''ll meet him as soon as I am done with my lunch."


    Scrunching his brows, he inquired, "Markus? You still meet him?" When she nodded her head, he frowned deeper, "So you would rather go to meet him than cuddle with me? So you like him more than my warm cuddles?"


    "What? When did i say that?" she chuckled.


    Puffing his cheeks, he grumpily snapped, "Fine, go meet him. I''ll cuddle with myself."


    "Seb do you even know who Markus is?" she inquired.


    Closing his ears, he squeezed his eyes shut. "I don''t wanna know who he is."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he remarked, "We have a meeting right? We should leave." Without waiting for her reply, he placed her on the couch and got up.


    Helplessly shaking her head, she chuckled, "You behave like a baby sometimes."


    "Yes, I am a baby and that Markus is very mature."


    Nodding her head in agreement, she answered, "Yes, he is very matured."


    Gritting his teeth, he grabbed a file from the table and walked out of the room.


    "Hey, at least wait for me," she shouted before rushing after him.


    ¡­..


    Meeting room.


    Throwing the file on the table, Sebastian fumed, "Is this how you prepare a presentation? Do you people not know how things are done in this office?"


    The employees lowered their head and did not say anything. For the past six-seven months, their big boss was always in a very good and happy mood but today things were different. Sebastian was snapping and shouting at them whenever they made even a small mistake.


    "Don''t force me to remind you all how things are supposed to be done here or do you people expect me to make the presentation on my own? If that is the case then why am I paying you all? Just to have fun in the office?" he shouted.


    When the employees gave Ellie a pitiful look, she sighed. Not knowing what to do, she gently brushed her shoulder against his.


    Scrunching his brows, he looked at her. When she gently shook her head, he took a deep breath to calm himself down.


    "Take all of this and re-do the entire presentation, I want to see it complete by Thursday," he stated before gesturing them to leave.


    After everyone left, she passed him a glass of water. "Here, drink it."


    Taking a sip or two, he frowned, "Did you see how bad the presentation was?"


    Sitting on his lap, she cupped his face. "Just give them some time, I am sure they will work on it." Pausing for a while, she added, "Seb I know you are angry because I told you I am meeting Markus today but shouting at the employees that way will just make them nervous. If you are mad because of me, you are supposed to shout at me and vent your anger."


    "I can''t shout at you, I promised and even if I hadn''t, I would never do that," he answered.


    "Anyway, I won''t go to meet anyone. Let''s have lunch and cuddle for some time, okay?"


    Scrunching his brows, he shook his head, "No, you can go and meet whomever you want to. I don''t wanna be that bossy and controlling boyfriend who thinks he can control his woman''s life. I just overreacted, I am sorry."


    "It??s alright, I don''t wanna go now. I will call him and tell him I''ll meet him tomorrow." Kissing his forehead, she smiled, "I''ll do whatever my baby wants."


    "Baby wants a kiss," he demanded.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie chuckled, "I don''t know what to do with you."


    ...


    Evening.


    Sebastian and Ellie''s place.


    "Mom and dad are coming next week," Ellie informed.


    Widening his eyes in shock, Sebastian remarked, "No, please don''t tell me¡ª"


    "We have no other choice, mom and dad don''t know I live here with you."


    "We can just tell them¡ª"


    Crossing her arms in the front, she raised her brows, "Do you have plans of giving my dad a heart attack?"


    "But¡ª"


    "They will stay only for a week, I''ll be back after that."


    Turning towards Bojo and Boji who were also present, Sebastian asked, "Guys, what do you think? Should we let mommy go?" Looking at Ellie, he added, "They are saying no, you can''t go."


    "Why are you like this? I thought I am dating a mature guy," she sighed.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he inquired, "When are they coming?"


    "Next week."


    Thinking for a while, he added, "Fine you can go but you have to stay with me in the office for an extra hour."


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, she hesitantly said, "About that, I might need to use my pending leaves¡ª"


    Widening his eyes in shock, he gasped, "No Ellie no, you cannot do that with me."


    "Seb I need to take mom and dad out for sightseeing, you can also join us but you can''t leave the office."


    "This is so unfair, my right as a boyfriend is being violated and this is not acceptable. I want fairness in this relationship," he stated.


    Without saying anything, Ellie entered the kitchen to cook dinner for them. She had already imagined this overdramatic scenario coming up when her parents told her about their plans of visiting her. She knew Sebastian would definitely throw a fit when she would tell him about her plans.


    ¡­..


    Kitchen.


    Ellie was taking out some veggies from the refrigerator when Sebastian entered the room along with the two munchkins.


    "Fine, if you wanna go we will not stop you but remember one thing, we are gonna party hard and have fun when you are not here," Sebastian declared.


    "Fine, you can party as much as you want, I won''t say anything."


    Puffing his cheeks, he complained, "No we won''t party, we are going to a hunger strike."


    Taking out some treats from the shelf, she squatted down. "Here, have some treats."


    When Bojo and Boji beamed in joy and started eating the treats from her hand, Ellie looked at her boyfriend who had a super angry look on his face. "Well, I guess you are the only one who is going on a hunger strike."


    Without saying anything, he lifted her over his shoulder.


    Squealing in shock, she smacked his back. "You startled me." When he did not say anything, she chuckled, "Honey, I need to cook."


    Without saying anything, he made his way towards their bedroom.


    ¡­.


    Inside the bedroom.


    Pinning her down on the bed, he frowned, "I am still mad because you are leaving me alone for a whole week."


    Cupping his face, she sighed, "I don''t really have a choice Seb, you know that."


    Flipping over, he lied down beside her. "Fine, what can i say? I will eat only junk when you are away."


    Placing her head on his chest, she smiled, "You can come over for breakfast and dinner."


    "Let''s do something, I will drop by whenever I have time, okay?"


    "Of course, I will never stop you from dropping by." Running her fingers through his hair, she smiled, "I love you."


    Wrapping his legs around her, he sighed, "I love you too, I don''t feel nice when you go away even for a single day. I feel so alone just like how I used to feel before I met you."


    "I''ll be back before you even realize I am away and it;s not like I am shifting to some other city, my apartment is very close from here. You have the liberty to drop by whenever you want to," she explained.


    Burying his face on her neck, he sighed, "Fine, you can go."


    "Alright, now let''s make dinner."


    He shook his head and hugged her tightly. "I am not hungry, I just wanna stay like this." Without waiting for her reply, he added, "Before I forget, we need to go shopping tomorrow."


    "Shopping? Why?"


    "The company Gala is next week, we need to buy new matching clothes," he answered.


    "Why matching?" she chuckled.


    "We are a couple and everyone needs to know that. I have never seen you in a gown but I am sure you will look extremely gorgeous. I don''t want any creep to hit on you during the Gala so be on the safer side, I am going to with a matching outfit," he explained.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 264 - Grumpy, rude, strict and boring

    "I have never tried a couple outfits before, I am sure it''s going to be fun and nice," Ellie smiled.


    "Of course, we are gonna nail it and you know what else we should do?" Without waiting for her reply, Sebastian added, "We should take a nice picture and upload it in our social media accounts."


    Placing her chin on his chest, she inquired, "Where are you getting all these new ideas from?"


    "They are my own ideas, why do you always say that? Do you think all my ideas are stolen or copied?"


    "When did I say that?" Without waiting for his reply, she explained, "When I first came to L.A, everyone told me you are very grumpy, rude, strict and boring."


    Scrunching his brows, he asked, "Who told you that?"


    "All of them and you turned out to be exactly like that."


    Clutching his chest, he faked a groan. "My heart hurts, my girlfriend just called me grumpy, rude and boring."


    Smacking his chest, she pouted her lips. "Hey, you can''t deny that as well. I will never forget how you shouted at me in front of everyone, I felt so sad and I even felt like crying."


    "But I apologized later and even bought you that stupid donkey plushie which by the way, I am never going to give you back," he stated.


    "Well yes, you did change after that because you were charmed by my beauty." Flicking her hair backwards dramatically, she scoffed, "no one can resist my charm."


    "Did you just praise yourself?"


    "Of course."


    Pinching her nose, he chuckled, "No wonder you like donkeys."


    "What does that even mean?" she frowned.


    "Haven''t you heard of the phrase ''Self praise is donkey praise''?"


    Throwing her hand in her mouth, she gasped, "Did you just call me a donkey?"


    "Aren''t you my cute little donkey?" he chuckled before grabbing her hand. Gently caressing her injured wrist, he sighed, "Does it still hurt?"


    "No it doesn''t." Placing her head on his chest, she added, "I am fine."


    "I am sorry I couldn''t protect you," he sighed in despair. Sebastian still blamed himself for not being with Ellie that day. He regretted introducing her to Vincent when he knew how cunning and shameless he is. Though he has already punished him for making an disrespective move on Ellie, he still didn''t feel satisfied and at peace.


    Cupping her face, she frowned, "Hey, it''s not your fault. No one knew this was going to happen, stop blaming yourself for something that wasn''t in your control. How were you to know that Vincent was going to do such a thing?"


    "But still, I will never leave you alone anywhere in the future." Gently caressing her cheeks, he stated, "You are the most important person in my life, I can''t let anyone harm you."


    "Nothing will happen, everything is okay now and it will always be like this."


    "I promise it will."


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s parent''s place


    Ava''s room.


    Looking at the stack of papers, Calvin frowned, "What are these?"


    "I don''t know, maybe some random papers. Just go through them and see if you can find a certificate which has my name on it," Ava instructed.


    Raising his brows, he remarked, "This is not the way you keep your certificates honey."


    Groaning in frustration, she snapped, "I know but it was an emergency, I was trying to hide it but now I can''t find it anywhere." She had been looking for her certificate since morning but she couldn''t find it anywhere. She was supposed to meet Calvin for dinner but left with no other choice, she called him over to help her find her lost doc.u.ments.


    Separating the papers one by one, he inquired, "Why did you have to hide it anyway?"


    "It''s my event management certificate, I did the course in secret and didn''t want mom and dad to find you about it," she answered.


    "And what made you think that your dad didn''t know about it?" Walking inside the room, Arthur looked at the mess Ava had created. "What is this? Are you trying to wreck your room?"


    "I am just looking for something important," Ava answered.


    Leaning towards her, Calvin whispered, "Babe, uncle just said he knows about the course thing, I don''t think you lie to him anymore. What if he knows where the certificate is?"


    "I don''t know where the certificate is but I know she had taken a course without telling her mother or me," Arthur remarked.


    "Woah uncle, you have sharp ears," Calvin chuckled in amus.e.m.e.nt.


    "Thank you for the compliment son but I think you were a bit loud." Walking towards Ava, he inquired, "What do you have to say young lady?"


    "Y-You knew about it?" she nervously inquired. When Ava joined her college, she was more interested in the event management course but her mother forced her to take up business management against her will. Though she complied with her request and somehow managed to complete the course, that didn''t stop her to pursue something she wanted.


    After doing some research, she secretly enrolled herself for the event management course and paid the fees by using Sebastian and Noah''s card alternately.


    "Of course I did, you used my car to go to that place. What makes you think that my chauffeur won''t tell me where my daughter is going in secret?" Arthur asked.


    Gritting her teeth, Ava scoffed, "I knew uncle Robert isn''t someone I can trust."


    "Anyway, now will you tell why you created such a mess? Do you know how much time the helpers spend in cleaning the house? Why are you making their job more difficult?" he chided.


    "I promise I will clean it before leaving dad but right now I need to look for something important," she answered.


    "And what is it?"


    "Umm my¡ªmy¡ª"


    When Ava hesitated a lot, Calvin informed, "She is looking for her certificate."


    Scrunching his brows, Arthur snapped, "What? Why do you have to even look for such things? Have I not taught you how you are supposed to keep your important doc.u.ments?"


    When she did not say anything, he added, "You are supposed to keep it in a file and then make sure the file is kept somewhere safe. When will you learn Ava? You are already a grown up woman now, I shouldn''t be teaching you these things."


    After getting lectured by her father, she looked at Calvin to get some sympathy but all she got was a nod.


    "He is right, you need to start acting responsibly," Calvin added.


    "Look at you brother, Sebastian keeps his things so securely unlike you. Have you ever seen him look for his doc.u.ments like this?" Arthur snapped.


    Clasping both her hands together, Ava sighed, "I am sorry, I didn''t want anybody to see it so I hid it somewhere. Now will you help me look for it because I need it by tomorrow morning."


    Helplessly shaking his head, Arthur sighed, "Arlight, I''ll help you look for it."


    "Alright. Dad, you start from that corner. Calvin you can resume working on the pile and I''ll look for it there."


    Everyone started looking for the lost certificate with a hope of finding it soon.


    ¡­..


    An hour later.


    "Found it," Ava beamed in excitement before slumping on the floor. Looking at the certificate, she pressed it on her chest. "I thought I lost you."


    Crossing her leg, Calvin sat down beside her. "Well, at least you found it but honey, what do you need it for?"


    "Seb and Noah made me the head of the event management department," she exclaimed in joy.


    "Woah that is awesome, isn;t it something you always wanted to do?'' When she nodded her head, he gave her a hug. "I am so proud and happy for you."


    They quickly pulled away when Arthur cleared his throat. Walking towards them, he inquired, "So you went to the office today."


    She nodded her head and answered, "Yes, I thought they would place me in one of those boring departments where I will have to bury my head in flies and doc.u.ments all day but that did not happen. I am so happy and thankful to them for being so considerate."


    "Of course they are considerate of you, they are your brothers and they always want the best for you." Patting her head, Arthur added, "No matter which department you work for, you always have to give your best. Keep working hard and I am sure you will shine like your brothers."


    "Thanks dad, I''ll definitely try my best." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "In fact, Seb told me that I will have to manage the upcoming company Gala which is happening next week. That is going to be my first project on the company, I want it to be the best."


    "I am sure you are gonna shine and rock this project," Calvin smiled.


    "And if you need any help or guidance, you can always ask for my help," Arthur stated.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 265 - Responsibilities

    After Arthur left, Calvin remarked, "Uncle Arthur is kinda nice."


    "Well, he is nice and strict according to the situation." Keeping the certificate inside her bag, Ava added, "Unlike mom who is bossy all the time."


    "Uh huh, I don''t think your mom likes me."


    "Why does she have to like you? It''s not like she has to spend the rest of her life with you. All she had to do is at least tolerate you, that is enough." Wrapping her arms around his waist, she smiled, "You just have to care about me, if someday I stop liking you then that is something you have to worry about."


    Pulling her closer, he raised his brows, "What did you just say?"


    "I said¡ªahh Cal stop." Pushing him away, she tried to run away but he tightened his grip around her waist and kept tickling her stomach.


    "So you will stop liking me."


    "No, I won''t¡ªplease stop."


    Pulling her closer, he gently caressed her cheeks. "I will seriously lose myself the day you stop loving me Ava. In my entire life, I never took relationsh.i.p.s seriously, in fact I always believed that love doesn''t really exist, it is just an attraction which fades away with time but everything changed after I started seeing you in a different way. You make me feel complete and loved, I don''t know what I will do without you."


    Cupping his face, she smiled, "You don''t have to worry about that because I am not going anywhere." Hooking her arms around his neck, she added, "In fact, I have plans of clingy onto you for the rest of our lives."


    Kissing her forehead, he remarked, "Let''s go home."


    "Let''s order pizza today and watch movies all night, what do you say?"


    "Anything you want."


    ¡­..


    Brandon''s place.


    "Will you stop fussing about it? I won''t even call that a date," Charlotte sighed before slumping on the couch.


    Gritting his teeth, Brandon snapped, "You just told me it was a date."


    "Well, it was supposed to be a date but it¡ª"


    Snapping his finger, he fumed, "Ha you just said it again, so it was a date."


    "Are you being serious Brandon? Seb is with Ellie now and I am with you, how does that even matter?" Since Charlotte''s uncle was coming back soon, she was telling Brandon about it but accidentally ended up telling him how her uncle and Sebastian''s mom wanted to hook them up and had also made arrangements for them to meet up in a cafe.


    Brandon who had no idea about it got mad over the fact that she had gone on a date with Sebastian in the past.


    When he did not say anything, she sighed, "Now say something at least."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, he inquired, "So when you first met Seb, did you think he was more handsome than me?"


    Pursing her lips, she slowly got up and sat on his lap. "Sometimes you act like a baby."


    "That is not the answer I am looking for."


    "Well, I am not going to lie to you and you will also agree with me on this. Sebastian is handsome but he is not the kind of guy I was looking for. Only someone like Ellie can handle a guy like him," she explained.


    When he did not say anything, she hooked her arms around his neck. "There is a reason why I am dating you, in fact there are many reasons. You are handsome, funny, nice, caring, sweet and I love you."


    Nodding his head, he sighed, "I agree with you, Sebastian is handsome but¡ª" Showing her his jawline, he asked, "Don''t you think my jawline is better?"


    "Of course, everything about my baby is the best." Giving him a peck on his lips, she smiled, "Now coming back to the main thing, uncle is returning next week and I want you to meet him on the day he arrives. I have already told him about us so there is nothing to worry about."


    "I have met your uncle before in many business banquets and for some official work as well."


    Running her finger through his hair, she remarked, "But it''s different this time, you are meeting him as a potential son-in-law."


    "I guess everything is going to be okay."


    "Of course, uncle is a very easy-going person."


    "Before I forget, Stewart Group is throwing a Gala this coming week and you have to attend it with me," he informed.


    "Hmm that sounds fun." Inching closer, she smiled, "Will you wear a tux?


    "Of course, I will. Help me pick one later, okay?" When she nodded her head, he added, "Grandpa will be joining us too."


    "That is nice but I thought he had stopped attending such events."


    "Yes but I don''t know why he is so interested and excited for this one. Sometimes I feel like grandpa is doing something sneaky."


    "What do you mean?" she curiously inquired.


    "He has started spending so much time in the park, like it''s seriously too much. I mean, I don''t stop him from doing anything because after grandma died, he became very lonely. I want him to stay engaged with different things but now I feel like he is hiding something from me," he frowned.


    "Stop being so suspicious and let him do what he wants. Even if he brings a new grandma, what is the big deal?"


    "I don''t mind, I mean it''s his life and it;s also not my place to comment about his personal life but it will definitely be weird. What if he brings a grandma who is younger to me." Scrunching his brows, he complained, "How can I be okay with it?"


    Throwing his head back, she laughed out loud. "Seriously honey, what is wrong with you?"


    "What? I am being serious. Imagine what will happen if that actually happens. We both have to call someone who is younger to us our grandma." Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "I will talk to him about it later."


    "And what will you exactly tell him? Not to bring a young grandma?" When he nodded his head, she helplessly shook her head. "You say weird things at times."


    ...


    Next day.


    Sebastian and Ellie''s place.


    Placing the grocery bag on the table, Ellie frowned, "Next time I will go grocery shopping alone."


    "Come on El, are you still mad over the fact I paid the bill?"


    "It''s not about the bill Sebastian, it''s about you paying for everything." Scrunching her brows, she complained, "You don''t even let me pay for food anymore."


    "Why would you pay when I am with you?"


    "That is not how relationsh.i.p.s work Seb." Without waiting for his reply, she explained, "Being in a relationship isn''t just about spending quality time together or sharing meals, it also includes sharing responsibilities. I know you are f.u.c.k.i.n.g rich but I just don''t wanna sit back and burden you with everything."


    Sitting on the chair, she sighed, "Maybe you don''t care about such small things but I do."


    Squatting right in front of her, he grabbed her hand, "Firstly, it''s not a burden for me, I don''t and will never take it as a burden. We are one Ellie, it doesn''t matter who pays for what." Kissing the back of her hand, he added, "But I never saw things from your perspective and I am sorry for that."


    "It''s alright, you don''t have to apologize."


    "Alright, let''s do something. Starting from today, you will always buy the groceries and I will take care of other things, okay?"


    "Okay, that is fair enough. At least I will get to use my card for something," she remarked.


    "I had heard girlfriends are expensive but you are obviously very different. I mean you are mad over the fact that you can''t spend your money." Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled, "I suddenly wanna peek into your bank account."


    "I will let you see mine if you let me see yours," she chuckled.


    Taking out his phone, he stated, "Alright, wait a second¡ª"


    Snatching his phone away, she widened her eyes in shock. "Please stop, I don''t wanna get a mini heart attack."


    "Why would you get a heart attack? Anyway, like I said you are incharge of only groceries." When she nodded her head, he added, "And I am in charge of everything else."


    "What is your point?"


    "The point is I am taking you shopping today." When she widened her eyes in shock, he quickly said, "Now you can''t argue over that, I have never taken you shopping since we started dating. Noah, Calvin, Owen and Brandon take their girlfriends for shopping all the time, I wanna take you too."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he got up. "Now please don''t argue over that, we will also buy some clothes for Bojo and Boji. You can help me pick a tux and I''ll help you with the gown, it''s gonna be super fun."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 266 - Company Gala

    Next day.


    Park.


    "What? Jealous of me?"


    Ellie nodded her head and explained, "Yes, he gets super jealous whenever I mention your name."


    "You haven''t told him who I really am, right?" When she shook her and chuckled, Markus sighed and helplessly shook his head. "You are seriously very mischievous at times, why would you trouble him like that? Poor Sebastian must be thinking his beautiful girlfriend is hanging out with a handsome man in the park everyday."


    "Well, that is not entirely wrong, I mean you are a handsome man Markus," she chuckled.


    "Of course, you have no idea how many women are still crazy about me but I wanna stay loyal to my one and only woman who is probably having fun with handsome angels in heaven." Looking at the sky, he scoffed, "Have fun until I come up there."


    "You still miss her, right?"


    He sighed and nodded his head. "Yes I do and I always will. She was part of me, I just wish I could have got a chance to spend more time with her." Pausing for a while, he added, "Anyway, forget about that and tell me why haven''t you told Sebastian about me yet?"


    "It''s not that I don''t want to but he doesn''t wanna know. He shushes me everytime I try to tell him about you."


    "Well, I have a feeling that he will find out very soon." Without waiting for her reply, he enthusiastically inquired, "Now why don''t you tell me about the gown you will be wearing for the Gala."


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie asked, "How did you know about the Gala? I don''t remember telling you anything about it."


    "I know everything." Grinning from ear to ear, he added, "Now tell me about your gown."


    "I went shopping with Seb yesterday, I helped him pick up a tux and he helped me with the gown. Later I fought with him and also did not talk to him for a while¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Brandon frowned, "Why did you fight with him again?"


    "That gown was so expensive, I told him not to get it for me but he kept on insisting." Helplessly shaking her head, she complained, "I could have bought at least 20 dresses and so many other thighs with that money."


    "Oh come on, money isn''t a big deal. You and Seb will be appearing in public together as a couple for the first time, of course you both need to shine. Sebastian is the CEO of the company and you are his woman, you both need to stand out in the crowd and awestruck everyone," he explained.


    Nervously biting her lips, Ellie exclaimed, "To be honest I am very scared and nervous, I told Seb going together is a bad idea but he insisted that we should go together."


    "You are just stressing over it too much, all you have to do is ignore the judgy eyes of unnecessary people." Placing his hand on hers, he explained, "Let me tell you one thing Ellie, people whom you meet on banquets and Gala''s like this aren''t important. You don''t have to care about them, most of them are just a bunch of useless people who are jealous of you. All you have to do is smile at them and then walk away."


    Placing her head on his shoulder, she sighed, "I wish I could take you there for some extra confidence."


    "You never know, you might see me there," he chuckled.


    "I would be more than happy if that actually happened." Glancing at the watch, she gasped, "I am late again, Seb will start being cranky early in the morning if he doesn''t see me right on time."


    Grabbing her bag, she added, "Before I forget, my parents are coming here next week so I am taking a short leave from office. I might not be able to come here but I will call you everyday, okay?"


    "Sure, don''t worry about that."


    Giving him a quick brief hug, she rushed out of the park.


    ¡­..


    Stewart International and Group.


    Sebastian??s office.


    "Business major, that is what Ava had taken when she was in college, how could you just fit her in anywhere you feel like? What about her certificate? Are you going to let them remain useless for the rest of her life?" When Rebecca heard about Ava''s new post in the company, she was very unsatisfied. She wanted her daughter to work for some important department or alongside Noah and Sebastian but things turned out to be different than she had expected.


    "Knowledge is never useless, Ava majored in that subject which increased her knowledge and that is a good thing." Taking his reading glasses off, Sebastian explained, "But just because she majors in something and has a certificate, it doesn''t mean I have to act according to that. We also have to consider what she wants to do and become in life."


    "She has already chosen a path she wanted to follow and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "No mom, she had no other choice but to follow a path you forced her to." Pausing for a while, he added, "There is a difference between them, don''ttry to just force things on her just like you did with me."


    Taking a deep breath to calm himself down, he explained, "I am not trying to complain or argue with you and I am not saying what I am today isn''t something I wanted to do. Taking over this company was one of the many things I wanted to do and maybe if you hadn''t forced me here, I would have been somewhere else."


    "I don''t regret any decision that I have taken in my lfe but I don''t want Ava to go through the same thing I have. Noah and I are taking acre of this company because that is something we like and enjoy doing but it''s not the same for Ava. Even if we force her in some department, she will just force herself to work everyday and not enjoy what she is doing," Sebastian explained.


    "So you just shoved her in any random department?" Rebecca snapped still not satisfied with Sebastian and Noah''s action.


    "Ava has always loved doing these kinds of things. Do you remember how she used to take charge of dad''s birthday? Everything used to be so perfect and in the right order. In fact, she even took up a course on event management." Without waiting for her reply, he added, "And who said that is just a random department? The event management team is as important has the financial and executive team. All the events and programs organized by the company which helps us grow and leave our mark in various sectors of business is very important. If Ava takes over that department than Noah and I have one less thing to worry about because I know she is going to manage it better than anyone else."


    When Rebecca did not say anything, Sebastian sighed, "Just trust her, everything is going to be okay."


    Just then Ellie entered the room. When she saw Rebecca, she was about to excuse herself to give them some privacy when Sebastian stopped her.


    "El, did you see the red file?"


    "It''s in the drawer," she answered.


    "I checked but I couldn''t find it, can you find it for me?"


    She nodded her head and slowly made her way towards them. Stopping right beside Rebecca, she greeted her, "Good mor¡ª" Ellie stopped midway when she walked out without sparing a glance at her.


    Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed and started looking for the file in the drawer. By now Ellie had already consoled herself saying that her boyfriend''s mother probably hated her. Rebecca''s cold behavior no more bothered her.


    Taking the file out, she placed it on his desk. "Here is the file, it was right on top."


    Grabbing her hand, he pulled her in his lap. "I missed you."


    "I was just away for thirty minutes," she chuckled.


    "Uh huh but I still missed you."


    Fidgeting with his tie, she stated, "Your mom looked angry."


    "Hmm she is mad because of Ava."


    Scrunching her brows, she inquired, "Why?"


    "She wanted us to recruit her somewhere else but we didn''t so¡ªanyway, she is gonna make her peace with it after a few days," he explained.


    Kissing his forehead, she remarked, "You and Noah took the right decision, I am proud of you."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 267 - Company Gala (II)

    Snuggling against her chest, he smiled, "I just wanna make you proud because I love you."


    "Mr Sebastian Stewart, cheesy talks ain''t gonna work because we have many meetings scheduled today and you also have to go out for a lunch meeting with Noah."


    Scrunching his brows, he snapped, "What? Wasn''t that meeting scheduled next week?"


    "Yes but since Noah and Mel are leaving for their pre-honeymoon the very next day after the Gala, we had to reschedule it," she explained.


    Intertwining their hands together, he inquired, "Can we go for a pre-honeymoon as well? It sounds so cool and I am sure it''s gonna be super fun."


    Hooking her other arm around his neck, she smiled, "Of course, why don''t you take permission from my father first? He is coming next week, you can talk to him about it."


    "Yes and then jump off the terrace before he kills me."


    Squeezing his cheeks, she gave him a peck on his lips. "Get ready for the meeting first, I''ll prepare the file."


    Before she could walk away, he grabbed her hand. "If I go out for the lunch meeting, what about you?"


    "We are going to the new korean-barbeque place nearby," she answered.


    "And who are a part of the ''we''?"


    "Ava, Mel, Char and me."


    "How can you explore a new place without me? That is so not fair," he frowned.


    "We can go there tomorrow if the food is great, okay? Now stop making that face and get back to work."


    "Give me a kiss first," he demanded before pouting his lips.


    Pressing her forehead against his, she chuckled, "You seriously crack me up at times." Lightly slapping his cheek, she smiled, "My crackhead."


    "My lips are waiting Ms.Miller."


    Pressing her lips against his, she bit his lower lip making him wince in pain. But before he could do anything, she pushed him away and rushed out of the room.


    "Hey, that isn''t fair."


    "Meeting in ten minutes Mr.Boss."


    After Ellie left, Sebastian sighed and started doing his work. After a few minutes, he received a call from a number.


    "Is it ready? Hmm, when can I come and collect it?"


    Nodding his head in agreement, he instructed, "You don''t have to deliver it, I''ll collect it myself in the evening."


    ¡­..


    Afternoon.


    Restaurant.


    "So basically she has a problem with everything you or Seb does?" When Ava nodded her head, Charlotte gritted her teeth. "I probably shouldn''t be saying this but your mom needs to learn to mind her own business and stop interfering."


    "I agree that it''s important for parents to guide their kids to save them from taking a wrong path but too much interference is not good or healthy," Melissa added.


    Ellie nodded her head in agreement. "I agree with what Mel said." Pausing for a while, she added, "Today she had an argument with Seb over this matter, she thinks Seb and Noah did the wrong thing by placing you in the event management department."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ava sighed in dejection. "Will you believe me if I said that I saw this coming? I knew she wouldn''t be happy with anything that I want to do."


    "I swear, I am never going to stop my kids from doing anything that they want to. I will support them no matter what," Charlotte stated.


    "Me too, I would never want them to go through what Seb and I have."


    "Seb tells me the same thing. Keeping the kids disciplined is okay but pressuring them is wrong," Ellie remarked.


    Looking at Ava, Melissa inquired, "So how is everything in the event management department?"


    "Everything is fabulous, the current head who is about to get retired¡ª"


    "Mrs Jonhson?" When Ava nodded her head, Ellie smiled, "She is a very kind hearted lady and is super sweet."


    "I know," she beamed. "She kept calling me ma''am which was really very weird because she is my senior so I told her to call me by my name. She was really very reluctant at first but later I convinced her."


    "As long as you are happy, nothing else matters."


    "Alright enough of work talks, why don''t we discuss the main thing?" Without waiting for anyone''s reply, Charlotte asked, "When are we going to get our gowns?"


    "Yes, let''s go tomorrow."


    "Tomorrow is good, I''ll inform June as well."


    Looking at Ellie who was quietly sipping her drink, Charlotte inquired, "What about you El? Is tomorrow okay."


    Awkwardly clearing her throat, she gave her a weak smile. "Yeah, whatever suits you girls."


    Throwing her hand in her mouth, Melissa gasped, "You already bought your gown, haven''t you?" When Ellie shyly looked away, she gritted her teeth. "How could you betray us like that?"


    Left with no other choice, Ellie confessed, "Seb took me out for shopping yesterday and he also bought a gown for me."


    "Wait what? You already have a gown and you did not even tell us?" Placing her hand on her chest, Ava gasped, "I feel so betrayed."


    "Come on guys, it''s not my fault. Go blame Seb for whatever happened, he forced me to buy that gown," she defended herself.


    "At least show us the picture of the gown so that we can forgive you for betraying us," Charlotte stated.


    Awkwardly cleaning her throat, Ellie hesitantly said, "About that, Seb he kept the gown somewhere¡ª"


    "Then take that gown out of wherever somewhere is and show us," Melissa demanded.


    "Right but the problem is I don''t know where that somewhere is. So basically he hid the gown somewhere and told me he wants everyone to see it on the big day," she explained.


    Groaning in frustration, Ava scoffed, "How stingy,"


    "I know right? I can imagine how great that gown must be," Charlotte sighed.


    "It''s really very beautiful," Ellie smiled.


    "Ah look at her showing off her smile and amus.e.m.e.nt, I will never forget this betrayal," Melissa scoffed.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian and Ellie''s place.


    "Yes mom, everything is okay here," Ellie sighed.


    "Why do I still feel like you are hiding something from me?" Pausing for a while, Judith asked, "Is everything okay between you and Seb?"


    Slumping on the couch, she smiled, "Everything is okay between us, in fact it has never been better."


    "And how are things with Sebastian''s mother, did you meet her properly in person?" When she did not say anything, Judith sighed, "Just give her some time, okay? I am sure she is going to be okay with it."


    "I hope but that hope is also diminishing day by day. I just wanted her to like me, it''s okay if she isn''t fond of me but at least she can not give me the cold treatment."


    "What about Seb''s dad?"


    "His dad is super cool, I even helped him bake a pie, he is kinda nice and at least approachable," Ellie answered.


    "Don''t stress about it, everything is going to be okay. Your dad and I are coming next week, we can talk about it properly in person."


    "Yes, I cannot wait to have you both here. I want you to meet Bojo and Boji, our two little munchkins. You are gonna love them mom," she beamed.


    "Of course, let''s talk when we meet okay?" Pausing for a while, Judith added, "Your dad is here, I will talk to you later."


    "Okay, bye mom I love you." After hanging up the call, Ellie called Sebastian to ask where he was. After their lunch meeting, Noah came back all by himself and Sebastian had been missing all afternoon. When she called him earlier, he told her he is busy over something important and will meet her at home in the evening.


    Just then, Sebastian entered the apartment. Taking out his phone from his pocket, he gave Ellie a strange look. "Why are you calling me?"


    Keeping the phone on the table, she answered, "I just wanted to ask where you are."


    Sitting right beside her, he placed his head on her lap. "I am right here honey, in your arms."


    Running her fingers through his hair, she asked, "Where did you go?"


    "I had something to do."


    "What something?" When he hesitated for a while, she chuckled, "Why are you getting nervous? It''s not like you are cheating on me or is it?"


    "Of course not, how can you even think of something like that honey? I would never do that," he whined.


    Squeezing his cheeks, she chuckled, "I was just joking, I know you would never do that." Bending towards him, she gave him a peck on his lips. "Go freshen up first, I''ll start making dinner."


    "Can we watch a movie tonight?"


    "Okay, which one do you wanna see?"


    "Let''s decide together later." Getting up, he added, "I''ll quickly freshen up and help you in the kitchen."


    After he rushed upstairs, she made her way towards the kitchen.


    ...

 Chapter 268 - Pleasure and satisfaction

    [WARNING: Mature content ahead, please read at your own risk]


    Sebastian and Ellie''s room.


    After locking the door, Sebastian took out a small bag from his coat pocket. He then rushed towards his wardrobe and hid it somewhere in between his clothes where Ellie wouldn''t be able to find it.


    After making sure that everything was okay and not suspicious, he unlocked the door and rushed towards the washroom.


    ¡­..


    Kitchen.


    Ellie was busy stirring the broth she was preparing for the noodles while talking to Melissa over the phone.


    "So what did you both decide?"


    "Well nothing yet, Noah is super excited for our pre-honeymoon at the moment," Melissa chuckled.


    "I think your fiance managed to influence my boyfriend as well, Seb was talking about going on a pre-honeymoon as well," Ellie sighed.


    Beaming in excitement, she exclaimed, "That is amazing, we all should go together."


    "No, I obviously turned him down. It''s Noah and your big phase afterall, I don''t wanna intrude on that and even if I want to, I can''t. Mom and dad are coming here next week, I have to stay with them and also take them around," she explained.


    "Aunt and uncle are coming to L.A? Why didn''t you tell me about it before?" Melissa complained.


    "It is a sudden plan and I didn''t want you to reschedule your plans because of that."


    "It''s nothing like that, I would have helped you take them around and all of us could have had lots of fun together." Without waiting for her reply, she added, "Anyway, before I forget Noah''s parents, uncle Arthur and maybe Rebecca will be going to Seattle right after we come back. You and Seb have to come with us too, we all can mutually decide the big day and plan things accordingly. You are obviously my bridesmaid so you have lots of responsibilities. You gotta host a grand bachelorette for me and don''t forget to invite some hot male strippers."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie chuckled, "You are never gonna change."


    "Of course not, when Seb and you will get married I will throw a grand bachelorette for you," she beamed in excitement.


    "Alright, you don''t have to worry about that. I will let Seb know about your plans, we will definitely go with you."


    "Great, I have to make dinner now. I will talk to you later okay?"


    "Okay, I am making dinner too. I''ll see you tomorrow." After hanging up the call, Ellie was about to wash the vegetables when someone hugged her from behind.


    "What are you making?" Kissing her nape, he added, "I don''t know whether you smell delicious or it''s the food you are making."


    "I am making some chicken broth and noodles. Do you want me to add a boiled egg too?"


    "Hmm you can add anything you want, no demands or complaints."


    Turning around, she hooked her arms around his neck. "It''s cold today so I decided to make something that will make us feel warm."


    "Hey, I know something that will instantly make us feel warm." Without waiting for her reply, he swiftly lifted her up and placed on the kitchen counter.


    Yelping in shock, she smacked his shoulder. "What are you doing?"


    Looking around, he frowned, "I just realized, we have never done it here."


    "What do you mean?"


    Slipping his fingers inside her t-shirt, he gently caressed her bare skin. "You know what I mean honey."


    Placing her hand on his chest, she gently pushed him away. "I have to cook."


    "I am not that hungry." Burying his face on her neck, he started trailing kisses down her chest. "At least not for food."


    Tightening her grip around his shoulder, she tried to resist him. "Seb, the stove is still on."


    Looking at her, he frowned, "Seriously, you care about the stove when your handsome boyfriend is all ready to make love with you?" without waiting for his reply, he stretched his hand and turned off the stove. "Here, your stove is no more on, are you happy now?"


    Helplessly shaking her head, she chuckled before pressing her forehead against his. "How am I ever supposed to finish cooking if you keep behaving this way?"


    Without saying anything, he lifted her up over his shoulder and started walking out of the kitchen.


    ¡­..


    Living room.


    "Seb, put me down," she chuckled.


    "No," he answered before walking towards the couch.


    "Honey¡ªahhh," she gasped and widened her eyes in shock when he spanked her out of nowhere. "Hey, did you just¡ªahhh." Throwing her hand in her mouth, she gasped again. Yes, he spanked her for the second time in the same day.


    Throwing her on the couch, he quickly pinned her down. "Do you wanna get spanked again?" Inching closer, he sucked her earlobe and whispered, "Naughty girls get spanked."


    Closing her eyes, Ellie m.o.a.ned when he cupped her b.r.e.a.s.t and pressed his lips against hers.


    Biting her lower lip, he pushed his tongue inside her mouth. His tongue wondered inside her mouth until it met hers.


    She m.o.a.ned louder and wrapped her legs around his waist when his warm and wet tongue hers. Grabbing the hem of his t-shirt, she swiftly took it off and tossed it on the floor. Her hands then started freely wondering all over his n.a.k.e.d chest and lower abdomen.


    Pulling away, he helped her take off her t-shirt. He then started trailing kissing down her neck.


    Caressing the sides of her b.r.e.a.s.t, he kissed her cleavage before taking her right b.r.e.a.s.t out. The sight of her erect n.i.p.p.l.es made his throat feel dry. The sudden thirst, not for water but for her gave him a sense of pleasure and satisfaction.


    Without wasting any more time, he took them in his mouth.


    Ellie arched her back and m.o.a.ned aloud when he started sucking them. Clutching his hair with both her hands, he pushed him further. Biting her lower lip, she tried to control her m.o.a.ns when he took out her other b.r.e.a.s.t and started fondling it.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 269 - Pleasure and satisfaction(II)

    [Mature content ahead: Please read at your own risk and don''t blame the author later]


    Nibbling her erect n.i.p.p.l.es, he swirled his tongue around it while pinching the other earning a sensuous m.o.a.n from her.


    Another loud m.o.a.n escaped her mouth when he started sucking her b.r.e.a.s.t slowly at first and harder later while squeezing the other. Pulling away, he captured her other b.r.e.a.s.t which was craving for his attention.


    His other free hand started wandering all over her lower abdomen before he slipped it inside her pajamas. He groaned in pleasure when his fingers touched her wet entrance. He knew she was craving for him as much as he was.


    Squeezing her thighs, she tightened her grip on his shoulder. "Please Seb." She didn''t wanna get teased by him, she wanted him so bad that she didn''t mind begging for it.


    Without waiting for his reply, she started pulling down his boxers while he kept teasing her with his fingers.


    Ellie stopped midway when she heard a whimpering sound right beside her. Jerking her head to the side when she saw Bojo and Boji sitting right next to them, she widened her eyes in shock.


    Following her gaze when Sebastian saw their two furry babies staring at them, he chuckled, "Now what are you both looking at? Can''t mom and dad have some fun in the living room sometimes?"


    Smacking his chest, she frowned, "Honey, what are you saying?"


    "What? I am teaching them manners. We don''t disturb them when they are spending quality time together, they should disturb us too. Now where were we¡ª"


    Placing her hand on his chest, she stopped him. Biting her lower lips, she awkwardly said, "We can''t do it now."


    "Why not? Are you rejecting Sebastian''s love?" he complained.


    "No, I mean we can''t do it here, especially with their presence." How was she to face Bojo and Boji after today if they really ignore them and do the deed?


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "Fine, let''s go upstairs." Giving her a peck on the lips, he quickly got down and scooped her into his arms. "Everytime I lift you up, why do I feel like you have become lighter? Are you trying to lose weight?" he frowned.


    Hooking her arms around his neck, she vigorously shook her head. "Of course not, I eat like a baby monster everyday. How am I supposed to lose weight?"


    "Hmmm, don''t even think of losing any weight, I would be happy if you gain weight and become chubby like a teddy bear," he chuckled.


    "Yes then you will abandon me and find a hot girlfriend for yourself."


    Shaking his head, he declared, "Let me tell you one thing Ms.Miller, it''s you or no one. I have given you every inch of my heart and now there is no room for anyone else. In the future, if you leave me then I would rather die alone than give my heart to anybody else."


    Stepping inside the room, he placed her on the bed. Kissing her forehead, he added, "You are my one and only."


    Without saying anything, she pulled him closer and pressed her lips on his before wrapping her legs around his waist. His romantic statement warmed her heart and turned her on at the same time. She knew how much she meant to him even before he stated it loud. The bond they shared was special and strong to face all the problems that would arise in their relationship. There may be ups and downs every now and then but they would overcome everything together.


    Pulling away, he started tailing kisses down her neck up to her navel. He then pulled down her pajamas before tossing it on the floor.


    Clutching onto the sheets, Ellie nervously closed her eyes when he parted her knees and started leaving soft kisses on her inner thighs.


    Running his finger around the string of the thong she was wearing, he took it off. The sight of her glistening wet p.u.s.s.y made him grow bigger.


    Embarrassed by the way he was looking at her, she was about to squeeze her thighs shut when he stopped her. Inching closer, he started sucking her inner thighs while his finger kept rubbing her clit making her m.o.a.n in pleasure.


    Arching her back, she threw her head back and groaned when he ran his tongue on her wet folds before sucking her clit. Clutching on to his hair, she m.o.a.ned in pleasure when he started pushing his tongue further inside.


    A wave of intense pleasure started spreading all over her body forcing her to blurt out all the lewd sounds. He was nibbling, licking, sucking every part of wet p.u.s.s.y making her shiver in pleasure. She was loving what he was doing and didn''t want him to stop, she wanted him to devour each and every part of her.


    He kept thrusting his tongue inside her while his thumb never stopped rubbing her clit. His movements made her more wet and the craving to feel himself inside her kept intensifying to the point that she couldn''t take it anymore.


    Pulling him up, she arched her back and begged, "Please¡ª" Before she could complete her sentence, he pressed his lips against her.


    She could taste herself in his lips but that didn''t matter, instead it made her feel even more horny than she already was.


    Pulling his boxers down, he tossed it aside before focusing on her lips again.


    Wrapping her hand around his hard member, she stroked it for a couple of times making him groan in pleasure and pain.


    Parting her thigh further away, he rubbed the tip of his member against her clit for a couple of times making her groan in frustration. She never liked it when he teased her. Before she could retort, he grabbed waist and flipped over, changing their position completely. Now he was under her while she was sitting on his waist.


    Smacking his shoulder, she frowned, "You scared me."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 270 - Pleasure and satisfaction (III)

    [Please clear cache and restart the app if you can''t view the previous replace chapter]


    [Mature content ahead: Please read at your own risk]


    Caressing her waist, Sebastian smiled, "I am sorry, I didn''t want to startle you." Pausing for a while he added, "I just wanted us to try something different and special."


    "What do you mean?" When he grinned at her, she widened her eyes in shock. "No, I am not¡ª"


    Stopping her from getting down, he tightened his grip around her waist. "Come on babe, why are you being so shy? It''s just us and I am sure it''s gonna be fascinating."


    Hesitating for a while, she nervously bit her lower lip. "But I haven''t¡ªI mean, I don''t know how¡ª" Slumping on top of him, she buried her face on his neck. "You know what I mean."


    Kissing her shoulder, he gently caressed her back. "I know but I also know that you can do it. Come on honey, it''s gonna be fun."


    When she did not say anything for a while, he cupped her face and smiled, "You don''t have to if you¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she stated, "It''s alright, I can only if you guide me."


    Lifting his head up, he nibbled her lower lip and smiled. "You look even more beautiful when you are shy."


    Ellie m.o.a.ned when he started fondling her b.r.e.a.s.t while rubbing the tip of his member against her entrance.


    Grabbing his hard member which was twitching in excitement, she adjusted it in front of her entrance. He groaned in pleasure when she pushed herself down, he could feel her walls tighten around his twitching member.


    Throwing her head back in pleasure, she bit her lower lip and placed her hand on his chest. She then slowly started thrusting herself in and out, while m.o.a.ning in pleasure.


    Placing his hand on her waist, he started guiding her while moving his h.i.p.s, matching her movements.


    When she felt his member growing bigger inside her, she unintentionally increased her pace making him groan in pleasure.


    Lifting his head up, he grabbed her b.r.e.a.s.t and started sucking it increasing the sensuous pleasure. He groaned when she dug her nails on his chest. Tightening his grip around her waist, he flipped her around.


    Lifting her leg, he placed it on his shoulder and started thrusting inside her. Each thrust was strong and pleasurous which made her whimper and scream in pleasure.


    "Harder," she yelled in between her m.o.a.ns.


    Complying to her request, he placed his hand on her waist and started thrusting inside her just like she wanted; faster and harder.


    Clutching onto the sheets, she arched her back and screamed his name when she reached her climax.


    Thrusting inside her for a couple of times, he climaxed inside her before slumping on top of her. Staying in the same position for some time, he flipped over and pulled her in his embrace.


    Without saying anything, he kissed her forehead followed by the tip of her nose and then her lips.


    Sniggling closer, she smiled, "My chicken broth must have turned cold by now." Looking at him, she squeezed his lower lips. "All thanks to you and your mischievous tricks."


    "Yes indeed, you should thank me." Kissing her shoulders, he cupped her b.r.e.a.s.t. "They are growing bigger."


    Slapping his hand away, she sat up straight. "I''ll wash up quickly."


    Grabbing her hand, he stopped her. "Where are you going?"


    Placing her hand on her stomach, she asked, "Aren''t you hungry? Even if you are not, I am."


    "But what about my cuddles? Everything is incomplete without that," he complained.


    Ellie was about to say something when someone knocked at their door.


    "El, are you inside?" Knocking at the door, Ava inquired.


    "Yes I am." Slapping Sebastian''s hand away, she jumped down from the bed. "Give me a minute."


    "Alright, we are waiting for you downstairs."


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian snapped, "What the hell is hse doing here at this hour? And how did she even enter the apartment?"


    "Ava has access to this apartment, she is your sister Seb." Taking out a pair of clean clothes from the wardrobe, she kept it on the bed. "Here are your clothes, let me take a shower and entertain them while you get ready, okay?"


    Without waiting for his reply, she rushed towards the washroom.


    ¡­..


    Downstairs,


    Looking at the messy living room, Calvin chuckled, "I think something really hot happened here not too long ago."


    "I know right? Do you think we disturbed them?"


    Nodding his head in agreement, he sighed, "I told you we should have called them before coming."


    "How was I supposed to know they would be having s.e.x at this hour?" Squatting down, she ruffled Bojo''s fur. "Did you guys get a glimpse of what was happening here?"


    Just then Ellie rushed down from the stairs. Looking at the living room which was currently very messy because of their wild activities, she awkwardly cleared her throat. "I''ll quickly clean this, please don''t mind the mess."


    While she was arranging the cushions, Ava pointed at the t-shirt which was lying on the floor. "Is that yours?"


    Picking it up, Ellie quickly tried to cover up. "Bojo and Boji are very naughty these days, they have started scattering my clothes all over the place."


    Pointing towards Sebastian''s t-shirt, Calvin asked, "Even Sebastian''s t-shirt?"


    Without saying anything, she picked it up and rushed towards the kitchen. "Let me get some coffee for you guys."


    After some time, Sebastian came downstairs with a huge scowl on his face. "What are you both doing in my house at this time?"


    "Someone looks angry, did we invade your private moment?" Ava chuckled.


    Ignoring her question, he crossed his arms in the front. "Firstly, I want you to hand over the keycard."


    "Wait, why do you want it back?" she frowned.


    "Because I don''t want you to come here whenever you feel like. I am no more a single man, I have a girlfriend and I need my privacy," he stated before stretching his hand out.


    "But I am your sister." When he raised his brows, she gritted her teeth. Taking out the keycard from her bag, she gave it to him. "Fine, take it away. I cannot believe I have to take permission before coming to my own brother''s house in the future."


    Keeping the keycard inside his pocket, he inquired, "Now why don''t you both tell me what brings you here at this hour?" Before they could say anything, he added, "If the reason is not legit then I will throw you both out."


    "Of course it''s legit man, we would never disturb you and El at this hour if it wasn''t important." Sitting beside Sebastian, Calvin explained, "I heard that you sent an invite to my parents for the Gala."


    "Yes I did, we invite them every year," he answered.


    Calvin nodded his head and explained , "Yes I know about this year things are different." Without waiting for his reply, he added, "You know how our mom''s keep taunting each other over everything. Since this time things have taken a different road, I don''t think it''s wise to keep them in the same room. My mom knows Ava and I are a thing now so she will not leave any chance to taunt aunt Rebecca. So to avoid such kind of situation, I have decided to tell dad not to attend the Gala this year."


    "I understand your concern Cal but they both can''t avoid each other all the time and even you can''t keep them away for a really long time," Ellie remarked.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Calvin sighed. He knew his mom very well, she had been waiting for the right time to snap at Rebecca to get back to her. He didn''t want her to create a scene in the Gala or pick up a fight with Ava''s mother.


    "El is right, stopping them from coming will just make the situation worse. Instead, why don''t you talk to aunty and I''ll talk to mom," Sebastian suggested.


    Thinking for a while, he asked, "Do you think that is going to work? I just don''t want them to create a scene at the Gala in front of so many people."


    "Hmm I understand your concern but stopping them from coming will make things worse. That isn''t a wise move and it can also create a misunderstanding," Sebastian explained.


    "This is exactly what I told him but he kept hesitating so I brought him here." Taking a deep breath, Ava quickly rushed towards the kitchen. "That smells so good, what is it?"


    ¡­.


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:


    Greetings to all my lovely readers :)


    As you all know this novel is coming to an end soon and this is probably the last smut I am writing for this novel ^_^


    Let''s stay together and bid farewell to all the lovely characters that have made all of us laugh, cry and angry at the same time ?


    With love,


    Sofia ?

 Chapter 271 - Company Gala (III)

    "I am making some noodles."


    "Soupy noodles?" When Ellie nodded her head, Ava beamed, "I love noodles, can I taste them?"


    "Of course, I just started making them. Why don''t you and Cal stay back for dinner?"


    "We would love to if my grumpy brother doesn''t mind." Looking at Sebastian, Ava added, "Ellie had invited us, I hope you don''t have a problem with that."


    "Of course not, she can invite whoever she wants to."


    Rolling her eyes, she scoffed, "How cheeky, you are so sly Seb. He wasn''t like this in the past."


    "Love made our Sebastian cheeky," Calvin chuckled.


    "That is so true." Looking at Ellie, Ava added, "You changed our grumpy Sebastian."


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie remarked, "Well, don''t you think cheeky is much better than grumpy?"


    "Of course it is, at least he isn''t as scary as he used to be," she chuckled.


    "Alright, stop talking about me when I am standing right here in front of you people. Where are your manners Ava?" Wrapping his arms around Ellie''s shoulder, Sebastian added, "You both make yourself comfortable and I will help El in the kitchen."


    "I can help¡ª"


    Cutting Ava off, he shook his head. "Please stay here, I don''t want you to burn down my kitchen."


    "Fine, don''t call me lazy in the future." Without waiting for thor reply, she made her way towards Bojo and Boji who were busy playing with their toys while Sebastian and Ellie entered the kitchen.


    ¡­..


    Next week (Company Gala Day.)


    Park.


    "What are you doing here today? I thought you wouldn''t come," Markus sighed.


    "I wasn''t planning to but Seb had to grab an important file in the office so I asked him to drop me here. I wanted to meet you and¡ª"


    Placing his hand on Ellie''s shoulder, he took a deep breath. "Breath and relax first." After a few seconds, he added, "I know you are worried and nervous but trust me when I tell you there is nothing to panic or worry about. It''s just a formal gathering where you have to greet the guest with a smile on your face."


    "I know but this is the first time I am attending a function and that too it''s the company''s Gala, it''s a big event. I am just very nervous. I wanted to talk to Melissa but she is leaving tomorrow so I don''t wanna disturb her. I can''t talk to make Seb worried so talking to him is out of option." Grabbing his arm, she added, "You are the only person I could think of so¡ª"


    Cupping her face, Markus sighed, "Calm down first." Pausing for a while, he added, "I can understand why you are feeling like that but don''t worry, you won''t be alone. Your friends are going to be there with you and also Sebastian, you are not gonna be there all by yourself."


    Nodding her head in agreement, she remarked, "Yes but¡ª" Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed in dejection. "You know Seb''s mom is not that fond of me, in fact she probably thinks I am not good enough for her son. I just don''t want to make any mistake and give her a chance to prove that she is right."


    "Firstly, every mother-in-law thinks the woman her son loves is not good enough for him. The only difference is that some are too emphatic about it while some don''t say it loud. There is nothing you can do about that because no matter how hard you try, she will never think you are good enough. Of course there are exceptions but Rebecca Stewart falls under that category and there is no doubt about that," he explained.


    "Hmm, I just don''t have to mess things up."


    Giving her a hug, he smiled, "You won''t, I know my little woman is going to rock tonight. I just can''t wait to see you slaying in that gown of yours."


    "Don''t worry, I will send you pictures" Pulling away, she added, "As many as I can."


    "Hmm, I cannot wait to see them."


    ...


    Evening.


    Ellie and Sebastian''s place.


    Fixing his cufflinks, Sebastian entered the room. "Honey we are getting lat¡ª" He stopped midway when he saw Ellie standing in front of the mirror trying very hard to zip up her gown.


    Looking at him, she sighed, "Thank God you are here, I was about to call for you." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Can you help me with the zipper?"


    Walking towards her, he slowly pulled the zipper up and wrapped his arms around her. Placing his chin on her shoulder, he sighed, "Do you have any idea how hott, s.e.xy and gorgeous you are looking? How am I supposed to take you with me when you are looking like this?"


    "Stop exaggerating," she chuckled before picking up a pair of diamond earrings which would go perfectly with her evening gown.


    "I swear, you look stunning," he exclaimed.


    She was wearing an off-shoulder bold red evening gown which was highlighted with red beads which gave a beautiful edging to the outfit. She had a very light makeup on and her hair was tied together in a low bun. She had paired the dress with a set diamond earrings and necklace which made the entire outfit look even more elegant.


    Turning towards him, she fixed his bow tie and smiled. "You look incredibly handsome tonight."


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, he sighed, "My girlfriend is so beautiful, even I have to make sure I look good otherwise people will think I am good for nothing."


    Sebastian was wearing a navy blue single b.r.e.a.s.ted suit paired with an all white shirt and a navy blue and grey waistcoat. The blazer had a notched lapel collar, long sleeves and a double vented back hem. He had paired it with a bow tie and neatly polished formal black leather shoes. His hair was neatly gelled at the back and his cufflinks were neatly tugged.


    Kissing her forehead, he sighed, "I want to kiss you but I also don''t wanna spoil your lipstick."


    "Exactly." Patting his cheek, she chuckled, "My boyfriend is so smart."


    Glancing at the watch, he added, "We should leave, it won''t look good if we arrive late."


    "Let me quickly wear my shoes."


    "Okay, no need to rush, take your own time."


    ...


    Gorkora Hall.


    Kicking off her heels in a corner, Ava was busy running all over the hall making sure everything was in the right place. This was her first project after she had joined the company, she wanted to make sure everything was perfect and nothing goes wrong. The yearly Gala that the company threw every year was very grand and sophisticated. The pressure of keeping up with the standard made her very nervous initially but after she started working with the team, everything started happening smoothly.


    After making sure everything was in the right place, she slumped on a chair and grabbed a glass of champagne from a waiter. As she was busy relaxing, Rebecca approached her.


    "The guests have already started coming, this is not the appropriate way to sit." Looking at her bare feet, she frowned, "Where are your shoes?"


    "I¡ª"


    "Don''t worry babe, I got it." Squatting right in front of her, Calvin started helping her wear her shoes. "I told you to wear something flat but you never listen to me."


    "You don''t expect me to wear flats when I am wearing a gown, right?"


    Helping her stand up, he sighed, "Hmm, just stay close to me." Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he added, "I have to make sure you don''t fall anywhere."


    Looking at her mom, Ava inquired, "Mom, were you saying something?"


    Glancing at Calvin briefly, Rebecca instructed Ava. "Call your brother, ask him to come fast. The guests are asking about him and Noah, both of them aren''t here yet." Without waiting for her reply, she walked away.


    Wrapping her arms around Calvin''s, Ava sighed, "Why do I always have to get scolded by her?"


    "It''s alright, she is your mother."


    ...


    In a distance.


    "Mr. Stewart, I am seeing you after so many days, were you out of town or something?" Mr. Richards of Haichen Group of companies inquired.


    "Yes, I had gone for a long vacation with my wife. It had been years since we got a chance to relax." Wrapping his arms around Rebecca''s waist, Arthur smiled, "So we decided to take a break from everything."


    "That is true, taking a break is very important."


    Nodding his head in agreement, Arthur added, "You should consider taking one too."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 272 - Company Gala (IV)

    [The previous chapter has been replaced, please clear cache and restart the app if you can''t see it]


    Helplessly shaking his head, Mr. Richards sighed in dejection. "Of course I would consider it if I had a son and nephew as capable as yours. There is no one I can trust or depend on for the company matters, I have to handle everything on my own."


    Without waiting for their reply, he wrapped his arms around a young woman who was standing right next to him. "I don''t know if you remember her, she is my eldest daughter Lara. You had seen her when she was very small, she used to stay in London with my sister but now she is back recently."


    "That is nice, you have such a young daughter and I am sure she is very capable. Why don''t you pass on your skills to her?" Arthur inquired.


    "Don''t you think I thought of that? She isn''t interested in business." Pausing for a while, he added, "But she has started watching business news and reading business magazines because of your son, Sebastian. She is very fond of him, in fact she insisted on coming today only because she wanted to see him in person."


    "Of course, Sebastian will be here any minute. I will call him over and¡ª"


    Cutting Rebecca off, Arthur snapped, "I don''t think you know about this but Sebastian already has someone special in his life. In fact, he is bringing her here today." Looking at Lara whose expression had already turned pale, he added, "Don''t you read about him? You must have heard about the harmonious and lovely relationship he is now in."


    "W-We didn''t know about that." Awkwardly clearing his throat, Mr. Richards inquired, "Who is that lucky woman?"


    Taking a sip of his champagne, Arthur answered, "She is a woman who is interested in business and helps my son in every possible way she can. She lessens his workload and also cooks for him when he is hungry and also makes him smile when he is stressed or sad." Without waiting for anybody''s reply, he smiled at them. "Please, enjoy the party." He then walked away along with Rebecca who was clearly not happy with what her husband just did.


    "What''s with that scowl on your face?" Arthur snapped.


    "What you did just now wasn''t cool, how can you insult our guest like that?" she whispered.


    "Guest?" Letting out a mocking scoff, he remarked, "He was just trying to force his daughter to my son and I am sure that was his only intention of coming here."


    "And what is wrong in that? His daughter is young, talented, beautiful and¡ª"


    Raising his brows, Arthur smiled, "Are you trying to tell me that woman was more beautiful than the woman you son is walking in with?" Gesturing her to turn around, he added, "Look how smart and successful your son is looking with a woman as beautiful and talented as Ellie."


    Pausing for a while, he explained, "Always remember one thing Rebecca, the society and class we live in, it is very difficult to find true love and almost impossible to find someone who will stick by your side no matter how rough or smooth the days are. Most women marry men like us because they want to live a lavish life. Strong and independent women like Ellie and Melissa are very rare to find."


    Looking at her, he added, "I know you think your son deserves better, he deserves someone from our society but believe me or not, Sebastian will never find someone better than her. I believe that Ellie will be like a supporting and motivating pillar in our son''s life who will be there to support him everytime he stumbles or struggles." Patting her back, he sighed, "Make your peace with it as soon as possible."


    Looking at Sebastian and Ellie who had just walked in, Rebecca pursed her lips. Though she didn''t say anything, the disgust and discomfort she was feeling was clear in her face.


    ¡­..


    The constant shuttering of the camera''s forced her to tighten her grip around Sebastian''s arm. She was feeling almost breathless when they reached the venue of the Gala but the nervousness slowly faded away when they entered the hall and she saw many familiar faces from the office.


    Though almost the entire office knew about the love affair between their big boss and his assistant. Some who had seen them being intimate all the time thought it was cute and they were really in love while some assumed it was just a fling and just like other rich men, their boss was also having fun with his assistant and their relationship would end when he got bored with her.


    But now when they saw them together in the company Gala as a pair, most of them shocked and some were awestruck at how cute and amazing they looked together.


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, he pulled her closer. "Relax honey, I am right here with you."


    Looking around when she realized everyone was staring at them, she forced herself to smile. "Why is everyone looking at us?" she whispered.


    "I am sure they are looking at you and not me because you look beautiful." Kissing the back of her hand, he assured her. "Don''t pay attention to them, let''s get you a drink first, okay?"


    When she nodded her head, he slowly guided her further inside.


    ¡­..


    "El, you look amazing." Giving her a hug, Charlotte beamed, "I couldn''t take my eyes off you when you entered the hall with Seb."


    "I second that, you just outshined everyone and look at you slaying in this gorgeous red gown." Placing her hand on the chest, Melissa sighed in satisfaction. "No wonder Sebastian didn''t want any of us to see this dress, I would have seriously begged you to let me wear it."


    Looking at Brandon, Sebastian asked, "Mr.Hawick did not come?"


    "You wish, you should have seen how excited he was for his Gala for some unknown reason. He kept saying it''s special because someone special is coming." Scrunching his brows, Brandon added, "I sometimes doubt his intentions."


    "What the f.u.c.k are you talking about? He is your grandpa, how can you doubt his intentions?" Owen chuckled.


    "Exactly, your grandpa is a very nice and sensible man." Looking at Ellie, Sebastian explained, "Brandon''s grandpa and my grandpa were friends."


    "And also school and college mates," Noah added.


    "Where is he?"


    Looking around, Brandon answered, "I think he is talking with your parents."


    Placing his hand in Ellie''s back, Sebastian said, "Come, let''s meet my parents."


    "We will follow you from behind," Brandon added.


    ¡­..


    In a distance.


    "You have really distanced yourself from our family after father, you never visit us," Arthur complained.


    "Things aren''t the same after Timilton left." Helplessly shaking his head, Markus sighed. "It was very hard for me to get over it."


    Nodding his head in agreement, Arthur added, "Yes, that is true. Father was a pillar of this family, we were quite shaken after we lost him.


    "Mr. Hawicks, I did not expect you to see here," Mr. Wallics exclaimed.


    Just then, Mr. Richards arrived as well. "I thought Mr. Hawick had stopped attending functions and other official meetings." Without waiting for his reply, he added, "I guess your close relationship with the Stewarts brought you here."


    Smiling at them, Markus answered, "To remind everyone, I did not attend this Gala for so many but this year I couldn''t afford to miss it."


    Markus Hawicks were Timilton Stewart, Sebastian''s grandfather shared a very close relationship. The two men were infamous people who were well known faces in the business world. Though both of them belonged from a rich family, they did not rely on their ancestral wealth. Instead they focused and worked hard on building their own empire for the future generations to handle.


    After Timilton''s death, Markus was very shaken and ended up breaking his ties with the Stewart family. He also stopped attending business banquets and other functions and started working in a very low-key manner until Brandon was ready to take over his position. After handing over everything to his grandson, he took a permanent retirement and stepped away from the limelight forever.


    "Why? What is so special about this year''s Gala?" Mr. Wallis curiously inquired.


    "Of course it is special, it has been an incredible year for your company and¡ª"


    Cutting Rebecca off, Markus remarked, "It''s not about the company or anything related to the Stewart family. I am here for¡ª"


    "Markus?" Walking towards him, Ellie widened her eyes in shock. "What are you doing here?"


    "There you are." Grabbing both her hands, Markus sighed in satisfaction. "Look at you, I knew you would outshine everyone today."


    Giving him a hug, she chuckled, "I did send you pictures."


    "Of course pictures are not enough, I wanted to see you in person." Pulling away, he added, "You did not tell me how I am looking?" Swirling around, he grinned, "I look handsome right?"


    Vigorously nodding her head, she smiled, "You look incredible."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 273 - Company Gala (V)

    "Really? You think so?"


    "Of course." Fixing his tie, Ellie smiled, "There, now you look even more perfect."


    Tapping the tip of her nose, Markus proudly smiled, "I told you everything is going to be okay."


    Slapping his hand away, she lightly scrunched her brows. "How many times do I have to tell you not to do that Markus? It''s really very annoying."


    "Ah it''s annoying when I do it but what happens when your Seb does it?" he raised his brows.


    "Seb," she muttered before turning around. Grabbing Sebastian''s arm who was staring at them with an astonished expression on his face, she pulled him forward. "Honey, remember the Markus I talk about all the time?" When he slowly nodded his head, she added, "Well, he is the Markus."


    "Grandpa, how do you know Ellie?" Brandon curiously inquired.


    Scrunching her brow, Ellie muttered, "Grandpa?" before looking at Markus who was grinning at her.


    Wrapping his arms around her waist, Sebastian explained, "Babe, he is Mr. Hawick, Brandon''s grandfather."


    Widening her eyes in shock, she snapped, "You¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Markus quickly apologized, "Before you start scolding and thrashing me, I would like to defend myself and my actions." When she raised her brows, he quickly explained, "When we met for the first time in the park, I didn''t know who you were and you did not ask me my identity either so I did not tell you. Later when you told me about Sebastian and I found out that you are also friends with my grandson, I was surprised but I chose to stay silent because I didn''t want to spoil the bond we shared."


    "Wait a minute, so you meet Ellie in the park everyday?" When Markus nodded his head, Brandon breathed a sigh of relief, "Well, that is a relief."


    Ignoring his grandson, he turned towards Sebastian and patted his shoulder. "You are a very lucky man, not every man gets a chance to be with a woman like Ellie."


    Looking at Ellie, Sebastian smiled, "I wouldn''t deny."


    "The Stewart family is indeed very lucky to have her, right Rebecca?" Looking at her, Markus smiled, "Don''t you think Ellie is the perfect woman for your son?"


    Giving him a weak smile, she reluctantly nodded her head. "Indeed."


    "So Mr. Hawick, you did not tell us why did you come here tonight? We would love to know the special reason behind it," Mr Wallis asked.


    "Of course I am here to support Ellie. How would I allow you all to bully my little woman?" Markus remarked before looking at Rebecca. "Right Rebecca? How can I allow anybody to bully Ellie?"


    "Who would dare to bully such a beautiful woman standing beside the young and talented man?" Mr Wallis smiled.


    "Grandpa before I forget, we have to see Mr. Fuji," Brandon reminded him.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Markus sighed, "Hmm let''s go and meet them now." Looking at Ellie, he added, "Let''s talk after I am done."


    After he left along with Brandon, Arthur remarked, "I didn''t know you share such a close relationship with uncle Markus." When Ellie hesitated, he quickly explained his point. "Oh no dear don''t take it the wrong way. What I meant is, it''s rare to see uncle Markus get close to someone who is a complete stranger in his life."


    Pausing for a while, he added, "And the way addressed you, little woman. He used to call his late daughter with that name."


    "What happened to her?" She had known Markus for so many months now but today she realized that she knew nothing about him and his life. He always listened to her rants and problems patiently but he never shared his problems with her.


    "She died in a car accident when she was young," Sebastian answered.


    "Anyway, let''s not talk about things like this now. It''s a party, you kids should enjoy yourself and also greet the guests while you are enjoying," Arthur instructed.


    ¡­..


    "So he is Markus." Inching closer, Sebastian whispered, "That was a very cheeky prank."


    "Prank? Why do you think it''s a prank? You never gave me a chance to tell you who Markus really is and whenever I tried to explain, you used to shut me up."


    "Hmm whatever it is, I feel so relieved today." Taking a deep breath, he grinned, "I feel so light, my heart feels so light."


    Rolling her eyes at him, she scoffed, "So dramatic."


    Stretching his hands towards her, he smiled, "Will you like to dance with me?"


    Biting her lower lip, she nervously answered, "Umm I don''t know how to dance."


    Shrugging his shoulders, he chuckled, "Me neither but how hard can it be, right? We just have to move along with the music."


    Placing her hand on his, she smiled, "Okay then, let''s give this a shot as well."


    ¡­..


    Dance floor.


    Intertwining his hand with his, he placed his other hand on her waist while she placed hers on his shoulder.


    Slowly swaying with the beat of the music, Sebastian smiled, "See, it''s not that hard."


    "Everything is easy when you are there with me."


    Kissing the back of her hand, he remarked, "You really look so beautiful tonight and I am not saying this because you are my girlfriend, it''s a genuine compliment from a man to a woman."


    "Hmm so does that mean I don''t look beautiful other days?"


    Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled, "Why didn''t I see this question coming?" Before she could say anything, he explained, "To be precise, you look beautiful everyday but something is different about you today. I just can''t keep my hands off you."


    "You can''t keep your hands to yourself everyday Mr. Stewart," she chuckled.


    Swirling her around, he stated, "Well, you start begging me when I keep my hands in the place they are supposed to be."


    Slapping his chest, she snapped, "Stop with the teasing." Placing her head on his chest, she sighed, "This feels so great."


    Kissing the top of her head, he smiled, "Hmm it does, every moment with you feels great."


    ¡­.


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:


    Greeting Dear readers,


    2020 has been a very rough year for everyone around the globe, I would like to thank each and everyone of you for being a major part of my 2020. Despite the stressful atmosphere, your comments, reviews and support encouraged me to carry on and create these beautiful stories which are loved by many.


    Thank you for making my 2020 memorable and easy going.


    Let''s remember that only the year is ending but we have a long road ahead of us. I cannot wait to make you a part of my 2021 and the many more glorious years to come. Cheers to our blessed and angelic relationship, let''s strengthen this bond and keep loving each other till eternity ?.


    I hope I can keep making you smile, laugh and maybe also cry :p in the future as well.


    HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. STAY BLESSED AND SAFE :)


    Amidst the celebration, let''s not forget that 2020 is over but not the virus. Let''s keep taking measures and keep fighting.


    With love,


    Sofia?


    ¡­..

 Chapter 274 - Company Gala (VI)

    Looking at the couple who were lost in their own sweet world, Rebecca narrowed her eyes. She still couldn''t be okay with the fact that her son was dating his assistant. When she got the wind of their love affair, she thought it was nothing but a rumour but later when she started hearing more things about them, it started scaring her. She didn''t want her only son to be with someone who would bring him no good.


    Rebecca thought she would manage to lure Sebastian to leave Ellie and be with someone who could boost his potential but to her surprise, her son was no more the old Sebastian who could be easily manipulated. And now when Arthur has also given his consent over the relationship which according to her is inappropriate, there was nothing she could do.


    "They look lovely together, don''t they?"


    Looking at Markus, Rebecca forced a smile and nodded her head.


    Standing right beside her, he looked at Ellie and Sebastian and smiled. "You know if Sebastian wouldn''t have pursued Ellie, I would have definitely grabbed her for my grandson."


    "Sebastian never pursued her, she works for him so¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he chuckled, "Well, I guess you don''t know anything about their relationship." Without waiting for her reply, he explained, "Sebastian pursed Ellie and he was the one who proposed. In fact, he even used to go to Ellie''s place and help her out with cleaning and other things. He was totally into her from the very beginning."


    Pausing for a while, Markus smiled, "I know you don''t like her and maybe you think she is not good enough for your son. I am not saying that Sebastian is not talented, in fact I often tell Brandon to learn something from him. He has achieved so many things at such a young age which is incredible and something I really appreciate. But don''t think Ellie isn''t at par with your son."


    "She is a young, strong, independent woman who is incredibly talented as well. Not only is she an expert handling professional matters but is also an expert in handling household matters. Sebastian is very lucky to be with someone like her and Stewart Group is fortunate to have an employee like her," he proudly exclaimed.


    When Rebecca did not say anything, Markus stated, "You might be thinking Sebastian is making a wrong choice but that is not true, Ellie is his best decision ever."


    "You seem to be very fond of her. I mean, you are even trying very hard to interfere in someone else''s family matter for her," she snapped.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he chuckled, "Well, I don''t mind interfering in anything if it''s for her. And I am not just interfering but warning you."


    Pausing for a while, he warned, "Don''t think you can bully her just because you think she doesn''t have a strong family background. I will forever be right beside her and I know how exactly one should deal with narrow minded people."


    Without waiting for her reply, he walked away leaving Rebecca fuming in anger. She couldn''t understand how a girl like Ellie managed to win so many hearts. Her close relationship with Markus and the way Arthur defended her in front of other guests was already a very hot topic that was being discussed in the Gala and Rebecca wasn''t liking it.


    ¡­..


    Dance floor.


    When Ellie saw Markus talking to Rebecca, she started freaking out. She had told him everything that had happened in the past few weeks and how Rebecca hated her. She didn''t want him to pick up a fight with Sebastian''s mother because that would make things even more complicated.


    Sensing her distraction, he inquired, "What happened El? Is something wrong?"


    When she saw Markus walking away, Ellie breathed a sigh of relief,


    "Honey, is everything okay?"


    She nodded her head and smiled at him. "Yes, everything is fine." Placing her head on his chest, she sighed, "I am just tired."


    Kissing the top of her head, he remarked, "Hmm let''s go home after sometime."


    "How can we go home? There are so many guests, you should go around and greet them."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed in dejection, "That is one of the most boring things ever."


    Just then Noah approached him with a huge scowl in his face.


    "Dude, what the f.u.c.k is wrong with you? Do you want me to die? I have been greeting all the guests all by myself and here you are enjoying a romantic dance," he whispered.


    Before Sebastian could say anything, Noah snapped again. "The guest keeps asking for you."


    "Why? Aren''t you enough for them?" he chuckled.


    "I don''t know, for some odd reason they want to see us together," Noah gritted his teeth in annoyance.


    Looking around, Ellie inquired, "Where is Mel?"


    "She is with Ava and others, she doesn''t like going around greeting annoying people," he answered.


    Placing her hand on Sebastian''s arm, she said, "I''ll accompany them, you go with Noah."


    "Alright, eat something okay? Don''t wait for me."


    "We can eat together later, I''ll just grab some starters."


    Kissing her forehead, he smiled, "Okay, I''ll join you soon."


    After Noah and Sebastian left, Ellie started looking for Melissa and others but ended up bumping against someone.


    "I am so sorry, I¡ª"


    "It''s alright, I didn''t mind." Looking at Ellie from top to bottom, Nathane smirked, "Mr. Stewart sure has a really good taste."


    No liking the tone of the man, she gave him a weak smile and was about to walk away when he stopped her.


    "Ms. Miller." When she stopped midway, he approached her and smiled, "You seem to be in a hurry."


    "I have to look for my friends, please excuse me."


    "Please pass my humble regards to your friend Ava," he remarked.


    Looking at the man carefully, Ellie finally realized who it was and that made her wonder who invited him to the party because Ava was incharge of the invitation and there was no way she would invite him here.


    Without saying anything, she walked away.


    .....


    Special Author''s note.


    Sorry for the unexpected long hiatus. Things were really tough recently but everything is back on track. Updates will resume from today :)


    is rolling out a new feature in which the readers can choose the books they want the authors to continue writing by adding then in their library (Just like how readers pick up books in the trial read section)


    I submitted a short story of mine for the test trial which will be running soon.


    The name of the novel is ''The Strings of Love'' you can add it in the library. More chapters will be added only after I finish the existing ones.


    Don''t forget to add it in your library, drop a comment and a review :)


    Happy reading :)

 Chapter 275 - Company Gala (VII)

    "There you are, I have been looking for you girls everywhere," Ellie sighed before taking a glass of juice from the waiter.


    "Juice? Seriously, what are you? Nine or something," Ava chuckled.


    "Seb has strictly prohibited me from drinking after that awful incident," Ellie answered.


    "What awful incident? Something happened in my absence and you guys did not tell me? How mean is that?" Charlotte complained.


    "It was Owen and June''s housewarming party, El ate an entire bowl of rummy gummies and took off her clothes before jumping in the pool," Melissa chuckled.


    "And not to forget how she asked for a butt massage from Seb in front of everyone," Ava chortled.


    Throwing her hand in her mouth, June beamed, "Oh my God, that is still very funny."


    "Oh come on you guys, stop embarrassing me," Ellie helplessly shook her head. How could she forget about the most embarrassing moment of her life?


    "So Ellie is wild after getting drunk." Winking at her, Charlotte grinned, "I like it."


    "I don''t drink frequently, just on some special occasions."


    Looking at someone, Charlotte took a sip from her glass. "There she goes again."


    "Hmm who do you think she is after?"


    Shrugging her shoulder, Melissa scoffed, "Only a blind human being will not see that ring on my fiance''s finger."


    "A blind human being or a whore," Charlotte chuckled.


    "Well, I think she is after brother Seb," June added.


    Not understanding what they were talking about, Ellie curiously inquired, "What are you girls talking about?"


    Pointing her chin towards a woman who was constantly loitering around Sebastian and Noah, Charlotte answered, "We are talking about the woman in green, she has been hopping around our handsome hunks for quite some time now."


    "Her name is Lara Richards, I heard her dad wanted to hook her up with Seb but dad turned him down but look at her still not giving up," Ava scoffed.


    "Ahh I see." Keeping her expression neutral, Ellie started eating some snacks. She had barely eaten anything since morning as she was super nervous for the event and also because she didn''t want to look bloated in the gown. But now when everything was okay, she was starving.


    "Aren''t you going to do anything about it?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, she answered, "What can I do? She will get tired after sometime and give up. No matter how hard she tries, it''s not like Seb is going to spare a glance at her."


    "Exactly, our El has Seb wrapped around her pinky, right?" Melissa chuckled.


    Sticking her pinky out, Ellie chuckled, "Uh huh, say hi to Sebastian." Taking a bite of the snack, she added, "Before I forget, I bumped into that guy¡ªwhat was his name again, Nathane?"


    Scrunching her brows, Ava snapped, "What? Who invited that pig?"


    ¡­..


    "I was about to ask you that, weren''t you incharge of invitations?"


    Ava nodded her head and answered, "Yes I was and there is no way I would invite that swine. I just hope Calvin won''t bump into him. He is still very pissed with whatever happened."


    "You just called me a pig and swine, that makes me curious how this Nathane guy looks," Charlotte chuckled.


    "I just saw his picture last week, I think he looks okay," Melissa remarked.


    "I think he looks like a rat." Letting out a mocking scoff, Ava added, "He is my mom''s choice after all, how can he be normal?"


    Coughing vigorously, Ellie almost choked on the snack she was eating when she saw Rebecca standing right behind Ava. Grabbing a tissue, she quickly turned around not wanting to make eye contact with Rebecca.


    When Melissa slowly pinched Ava''s arm and gestured her to look back, she frowned, "What is¡ª" she stopped midway when she saw her mother standing right behind her. Awkwardly clearing her throat, she asked, "Mom, when did you come here?"


    "When you were saying good things about me," Rebecca snapped before looking at Ellie who was drinking some water to soothe her throat. "Ellie, come with me."


    "Pffft¡ª" Splattering the water out of her mouth, she started coughing even harder.


    Melissa quickly rushed towards her and started patting her back. "Are you okay?"


    She vigorously nodded her head and quickly took some tissue from Charlotte''s hand. She then wiped herself clean before looking at Rebecca who seemed to be waiting for her. Ellie was still not sure if what she had heard was right. Did Sebastian''s mother just call her name and asked her to come with her?


    But before she could ask anything, Rebecca added, "My friends want to meet you, they are insisting on meeting the woman Sebastian chose for himself." When her friends who were also attending the Gala saw Sebastina and Ellie, they kept insisting Rebecca to bring Ellie over. They wanted to see her properly and also talk to her. She kept dodging them for some time but when they kept forcing her, she had no choice but to bring her over even though she didn''t want to.


    "Do you have a problem with meeting my friends?" she snapped.


    Ellie vigorously shook her head and answered, "Of course not, I would love to see them." Without wasting any time, she quickly followed her.


    "Woah, did she just call Ellie over to introduce her to her friends?" Melissa raised her brows.


    "I should go and tell Seb about this." without wasting any time, Ava rushed around looking for her brother.


    "Ava really has trust issues with her mother."


    Shrugging her shoulders, Melissa stated, "I really don''t blame her, her mother has done many things which had forced her to behave this way."


    "Maybe her intentions are good this time? I mean, what can she even do to Ellie in such a crowded place," Charlotte stated.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Ava was busy looking for Sebastian when he ended up bumping into Calvin''s mother Naomi.


    "Ah there you are, I have been looking for you everywhere." Giving her a hug, Noami inquired, "Where is Calvin?"


    "He was talking to a few guests earlier, I really don''t know where he is."


    Cupping Ava''s face, she smiled, "You look beautiful honey."


    "Thank you so much aunty."


    Looking around, she asked, "Where are your parents? I don''t see them either."


    "Hmm mom is some¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Naomi smiled, "Nevermind dear, I think I just saw your mom. Let me go and greet her. I''ll see you later, okay?" When Ava smiled and nodded her head, she quickly made her way towards Rebecca who was standing with the other ladies.


    Slapping her forehead, Ava silently groaned in frustration. Now she had to look not only for Sebastian but also Calvin.


    ¡­.


    Meanwhile, Ellie was facing one of the most awkward moments of her life.


    "Look at her, she is beautiful. No wonder Sebastian ended up falling for her," A woman exclaimed.


    "I know right, if I was a man, I would fall for her too," Another one stated.


    Giving them a weak smile, Ellie awkwardly stood there without saying anything eyeing at Rebecca from time to time, hoping she would say something and rescue her. But the latter was busy talking to someone else and didn''t really care about her awkwardness.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie silently sighed in her heart. Why was she even expecting anything from Sebastian''s mother who practically didn''t like her in any way?


    "Ellie, I heard you are from Seattle?"


    "Yes."


    "And I also heard that your father is a professor and your mom works in some NGO," A woman stated.


    Not liking the tone the woman just used while addressing her parents, she scrunched her brows. But before she could say anything, a woman stood right beside her.


    "At least a professor and NGO worker is better than looting money¡ªahh I mean taking support from other people to live a luxurious life." Smiling at the woman who just passed the comment, Noami smiled, "At least her parents earn their own money rather than¡ªwell, do I even have to say that loud? Almost everyone knows what your father does, Brieyana."


    Ignoring the huge scowl on the woman''s face, she looked at Ellie who had a surprised look on your face. "You don''t know me, I am Calvin''s mother and maybe Ava Stewart''s would be mother-in-law, Noami."


    Smiling at Rebecca who was glaring at her, she cheekily smiled, "Ahh here you are, I have been looking for you everywhere. When I heard you are back, I tried calling you but it seems like you are ignoring my calls. But then I thought you had no reason to ignore calls of your future in-laws so I tried looking for you everywhere. I know it''s shocking but for some odd reason, I couldn''t find you. Anyway, at least we met now."


    When Rebecca did not say anything for quite some time, Noami sighed, "I know it''s very shocking how our kids got together. To be honest, I never expected it as well but since it has happened, I don''t have any problem with that. Ava is a really sweet girl and my son is very fond of her."


    ¡­.


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:


    Greeting Dear readers,


    2020 has been a very rough year for everyone around the globe, I would like to thank each and everyone of you for being a major part of my 2020. Despite the stressful atmosphere, your comments, reviews and support encouraged me to carry on and create these beautiful stories which are loved by many.


    Thank you for making my 2020 memorable and easy going.


    Let''s remember that only the year is ending but we have a long road ahead of us. I cannot wait to make you a part of my 2021 and the many more glorious years to come. Cheers to our blessed and angelic relationship, let''s strengthen this bond and keep loving each other till eternity ?.


    I hope I can keep making you smile, laugh and maybe also cry :p in the future as well.


    HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. STAY BLESSED AND SAFE :)


    Amidst the celebration, let''s not forget that 2020 is over but not the virus. Let''s keep taking measures and keep fighting.


    With love,


    Sofia?


    ¡­..

 Chapter 276 - Company Gala (VIII)

    Forcing herself to smile, Rebecca answered, "Of course, as long as the kids are happy together."


    "Exactly." Without waiting for her reply, Noami added, "Don''t worry Rebecca, I will always treat your daughter as mine. Well, at least I won''t just sit back and gossip when pretentious people are trying to play their dirty tricks on her."


    She gritted her teeth and was about to retort when Sebastian arrived.


    He quickly wrapped his arms around Ellie''s waist. "There you are, I have been looking for you everywhere."


    Placing her hand on her chest, Noami sighed in satisfaction. "Look at the two of you, you both look perfect."


    "Thank Mrs. Lewis." Giving her a hug, Sebastian smiled, "We are grateful that you are here."


    "Of course, I wouldn''t miss it at any cost." Pulling away, she added, "And look at you, why do I feel like you become more handsome each time I see you?"


    "Did you hear that honey?" Looking at Ellie, he added, "And here you are, you stopped calling me handsome after we started dating."


    "When you look at the same face 24/7 it starts looking annoying and less handsome, right Ellie?"


    When Ellie nodded her head, Sebastian clutched his chest. "Ah my weak heart is getting tormented. How can you agree to that babe?" Without waiting for her reply, he added, "I should take you away before you learn other things which aren''t nice for my weak heart."


    "Yes, you should take her away before she starts getting influenced by depressing and desperate auras," Noami snapped before briefly glancing at the ladies.


    Looking at his mother, Sebastian smiled at her briefly before walking away along with Ellie.


    ¡­..


    "Who told you? Ava, Mel or Char?"


    "Told me what?" When Ellie raised her brows, he sighed, "Fine, Ava came looking for me and I rushed over."


    "Did you think I would get bullied?" When he shook and nodded his head at the same time, she chuckled, "Don''t worry, I am not that weak."


    "I just didn''t want them to irritate you, they can be very annoying at times. You have no idea how much Ava hates them."


    Fixing his bow tie, she asked, "Are you done greeting everyone?"


    "Almost, Noah is doing the rest on my behalf as well."


    "Hmmm, mom and dad are coming the day after tomorrow."


    He sighed and nodded his head. "I know, let''s take out some time and go to your old place tomorrow."


    "Do you read minds Mr. Stewart? I was about to tell you the same thing."


    "I don''t know about minds but I can surely read yours." Inching closer, he was about to capture her lips when she stopped him.


    ¡­..


    Placing her hand on his chest, she slowly pushed him away. "There are so many people around."


    "Are you being shy?" When she blushed and lowered her head, Sebastian smiled, "I guess everyone in this room has already guessed that we kiss." Lifting her chin up, he pressed his lips against hers ignoring the crowd of people.


    Pulling away, he gently caressed her hair. "Did you eat anything?"


    "I ate some snacks."


    "Let''s eat something first before we resume greeting the guests again."


    "We? You and Noah we?" she curiously inquired.


    Wrapping his arms around her shoulder, he stated, "There is only one we and that is you and me."


    "I have to go around with you?"


    "Of course, do you have any idea how many people have asked for you and Melissa? So to be on a safe side, we have decided to take you both with us," he explained.


    Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "I guess I have no other choice but to accompany you."


    ¡­..


    Meanwhile, Melissa was busy glaring at her fiance who was breaking into a cold sweat.


    "Babe, I swear I didn''t mean it that way¡ª"


    "Oh so there is a different way?" Crossing her arms in the front, she raised her brows, "Care to explain what that way is."


    Pointing towards Calvin, he snapped, "It''s all his fault, he was the one who said that first."


    "Hey, stop dragging me into this." Looking at Ava, Calvin explained, "I just said that the woman who was following Seb and Noah looked familiar. Then Owen told us she is Mr. Richards'' eldest daughter and then Noah out of nowhere said that she was beautiful."


    "That is a lie, I said she was pretty and you agreed with me." Pointing at Sebastian who has just arrived with Ellie. "Ask Seb, he was there with us too."


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian asked, "What are you people talking about?"


    "Noah called the woman who was loitering around him and Seb pretty so Mel is mad at him," Charlotte chuckled.


    Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie chuckled, "Well, that is not a lie. I mean, she is beautiful. To be honest, I like the way she is dressed." Looking at her boyfriend, she asked, "What do you think Seb? Don''t you think she is dressed well?"


    Raising his brows, Sebastian asked, "So you want me to look at some other woman and tell you whether she is well dressed or not?" Without waiting for her reply, he moved closer and hugged her from behind. "I just like the way you dress."


    "Safe played man," Owen chuckled.


    "I think it''s time to divorce you," Melissa snapped.


    Widening his eyes in shock, Noah panicked, "What the hell are you talking about? What divorce? I won''t let you divorce me."


    "Dude, you both are not even married yet, how can she divorce you?" Sebastian sighed.


    "At what time is your flight tomorrow?" Ellie inquired.


    "11:00 am." Placing her finger on Noah''s chest, Melissa gritted her teeth. "You are sleeping on the couch today."


    ...


    1:00 am


    Sebastian and Ellie''s place.


    Holding Ellie in his arms, Sebastian stepped into the apartment. Looking at his cute girlfriend who was soundly sleeping in his embrace, he smiled. Today was a big day not just for the company but also a big day for them and their relationship.


    This is what he wanted, he wanted everyone to know about her and their relationship. Sebastian never had the intention of keeping things under the wraps, he had always been open about his relationship with Ellie and never cared about what others thought about them.


    He also knew his mother still wasn''t okay with the fact that they were together but he couldn''t care less about. It didn''t matter what his mother or anybody thought about their relationship, what mattered and would always matter is what Ellie thinks about it. Only hers and Sebastian''s opinion should matter in their relationship.


    Sebastian would never give anyone the right to make decisions for them even though that person was his own mother. He knew they had done nothing wrong, they were just normal people who had fallen in love with each other in a normal pace and environment. Why should they care about others?


    ¡­..


    Bedroom.


    Placing her on the bed, he was about to move away when she snuggled.


    Without opening her eyes, she asked, "Are we home?"


    "Hmmm." Kissing her forehead, he remarked, "I''ll help you change."


    "I want to take a bath but I feel so tired." Scrunching her brows, she added, "My legs hurt."


    "I already took off your shoes in the car." Looking at her swollen red feet, he sighed, "I told you not to wear heels."


    "I don''t wanna look short in front of you."


    "Let''s soak them in lukewarm water for some time after you finish changing." Pulling away, he added, "I''ll get your clothes."


    Rolling over, she stated, "Why don''t you change first, I''ll do it later."


    "Alright, after that I''ll help you change." When she let out an affirmative sound, he quickly got down and rushed towards the washroom.


    After taking a quick shower, he changed his clothes before helping Ellie out. While she was still in the half asleep state, he helped her change, gently removed her makeup and untangled her hair.


    "I''ll get some lukewarm water for you to soak your feet."


    "I can do that tomorrow¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he declared, "No, you have to do it today otherwise you will hurt a lot tomorrow." Without waiting for her to say anything, he walked towards the washroom.


    After bringing some lukewarm water in a medium sized bowl, he placed it right in front of the bed. He then pulled Ellie up and helped her dip her legs in the water while he sat beside her.


    Wrapping her arms around his waist, she placed her head on his shoulder. "Today was fun but also hectic."


    "I know." Kissing the top of her head, he added, "Tomorrow is a day off anyway, you can rest well all day."


    "We have to go to my old apartment."


    "Your parents are coming in the afternoon, right?" When she nodded her head, he remarked, "Then we can go in the morning to do some cleaning."


    "Yes, I guess we can do that."


    ...

 Chapter 277 - Meeting

    Two days later.


    "For how many days?" Charlotte inquired.


    "I don''t know, I think they are going to stay here for at least a week or so," Ellie answered while re-checking everything she was supposed to take with her to the old apartment.


    "So Mr. Stewart is going to be alone," she chuckled.


    "Don''t say that in front of Seb, he is still very bumped about staying all by himself for a week or more."


    Ruffling Bojo''s hair, she asked, "How will he be alone? Aren''t they going to stay here?"


    Ellie nodded her head and answered, "They will be staying here but you know how Seb is¡ª" Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "Sometimes he acts like a baby."


    "Well, isn''t he your baby?"


    Just then, the house telephone rang and Ellie quickly picked it up. "Oh, please send her up and next time don''t stop her from entering the apartment."


    "Who is it?"


    Hanging up the call, she answered, "It''s Seb''s mother."


    "Why is she here?"


    "I really don''t know." Grabbing her phone from the table, she quickly called Sebastian who had stepped out for a bit to get gifts for her parents.


    Just then Rebecca entered the apartment.


    All of a sudden, Bojo and Boji started barking out loud and pounded upon Rebecca who screamed in shock.


    Ellie threw her phone away and quickly managed to grab Bojo''s collar while Charlotte grabbed Boji''s. But that didn''t stop the two well mannered dogs from growling at the person who had just entered the apartment.


    Nervously looking at Rebecca, Ellie explained, "I am sorry, they are usually very well-mannered and friendly with everyone, I don''t know what happened today."


    Squatting down, Charlotte caressed Boji''s head to calm her down. "Well, I have heard that dogs have a special sense which helps them understand whether a person has good or bad intentions. So they tend to attack people who have bad intentions towards their favourite human."


    When Rebecca glared at her, she shrugged her shoulders, "I am just stating a fact."


    "Sebastian has stepped out for a while, he should be back soon. Please make yourself comfortable," Ellie politely greeted her.


    "I don''t have the time to wait or sit, I am in a hurry." Pausing for a while, Rebecca added, "I heard that your parents are coming to L.A today."


    "Yes, they are."


    "I would like to meet them and Sebastian''s father also wants to do the same, I hope they won''t have any problem."


    "O-Of course not," Ellie nervously stuttered. "I''ll let them know."


    "Hmmm, ask Seb to come and meet me in the mansion tomorrow when he has time. I''ll tell him the time and place." Without waiting for her reply, she briefly frowned at Bojo and Boji who were still growling at her before walking out of the apartment.


    "Oh God, what the hell was that?" Charlotte gasped.


    Nervously biting her lower lip, Ellie started panicking, "Okay, I did not expect this at all. What do I do now? How will we manage everything? What if our parents don''t get along?"


    Placing her hand on Ellie''s shoulder, Charlotte tried to calm her down. "Relax, why are freaking out? Everything will be as smooth as butter, okay?"


    "But¡ª"


    "There is no but El, it''s just a parents meet. That is just a formality, something that is important but not so important," she explained.


    Just then Sebastian entered the apartment. When he saw Ellie''s anxious expression, he frowned. "What happened? Why do you look so worried?"


    Before Ellie could say anything, Charlotte grabbed her bag. "Well, since Seb is here, I will take my leave and give you two some privacy." Giving Ellie a hug, she added, "Don''t worry, you will just stress yourself out and stress is not good for the skin."


    After Charlotte left, Sebastian kept the gifts on the table before approaching her. "What happened honey? Is everything okay?"


    "Your mom was here and¡ª"


    "And? Did she tell you something?" Without waiting for her reply, he fished out his phone from his pocket. "Let me talk to her."


    Grabbing his phone, she kept it on the couch. "Seb, will you listen to the entire thing first and then react?" Without waiting for his reply, she explained "Your mom was here a while ago, she wants to meet my parents when they are in L.A."


    "What? She told you that?"


    "Yes and your father wants to meet them too." Sitting on the couch, she sighed, "I don''t know what to do."


    Sitting beside her, he pulled her into his embrace. "Why are you panicking then? I thought something serious might have happened, you will give me a heart attack one day." Kissing her forehead, he assured her. "If you don''t want them to meet now, I''ll talk to dad and reschedule it¡ª"


    "No you can''t do that, it will sound so rude." Thinking for a while, she added, "They will meet at Noah and Mel''s wedding anyway. It will seriously be very awkward if that is the first time they see each other."


    "So what do you want?"


    Slumping in his embrace, she sighed, "Let''s arrange a meeting for them."


    "Hmm, you talk to your parents first and let me know when they are ready, okay?"


    "Okay, I''ll talk to them about it today. Before I forget, your mom has asked you to see her tomorrow whenever you have time."


    "Alright, don''t worry about that." Glancing at the watch, he added, "It''s almost time, we should leave. We have to buy groceries and also do some cleaning, we can''t be late."


    ...


    Ellie''s old apartment.


    "Babe let me try."


    "Don''t worry, I got this." Scrunching her brows, Ellie was trying very hard to unlock the door which seemed to be jammed.


    Looking at his stubborn girlfriend who was clearly struggling but still refused to take his help, Sebastian sighed on helplessness. Since she didn''t take his help, he had no other choice but to hold all the grocery bags and watch her deal with the jammed door.


    "Is the door jammed?"


    "Yes, it is," Ellie answered.


    "Do you need some help, pumpkin?"


    "No I¡ª" Widening her eyes in shock, Ellie jerked her head to the side and dropped the keys on the floor. "D-Dad, mom¡ª" Giving them a hug, she let out a nervous laugh. "You guys are early."


    "Yes, we had an early flight," Judith answered before giving Seb a hug.


    "Early? I thought you both had an evening flight."


    "That is our returning flight honey." Looking at the door, Harry asked, "What happened to the door?"


    "It''s jammed because of the cold weather I guess." Taking the bags from Sebastian''s hand, she snapped, "Seb will open it."


    Giving a ''Oh now you need my help'' look, Sebastian picked up the keys from the floor and opened the door.


    ¡­..


    Inside.


    "Welcome to L.A Mr. Miller," Sebastian politely greeted Harry.


    Looking at him from top to bottom, Harry commented, "Seems like you have been eating a lot lately, you look plumpy."


    "Harry¡ª" Judith glared at him before looking at Sebastian. "Don''t listen to him Seb, you look perfect and handsome."


    Giving her a weak smile, he awkwardly cleared his throat. "I will go help El out." Without waiting for anyone''s reply, he rushed towards the spare room.


    ¡­.


    Inside the spare room.


    Walking towards the mirror, Sebastian straightened his shirt and turned to the side. He then scrunched his brows and examined himself in the mirror. He did not have any fat in his body. Squeezing his cheeks, he placed his hands on his h.i.p.s. He wasn''t plumpy at all.


    Ellie who had been examining him for a really long time, trying very hard to find out what he was exactly trying to do. "What are you doing?"


    Pinching his own cheeks, he asked, "Do you think I look plumpy?"


    "Plumpy? No, you don''t look plumpy." Fluffing the pillow, she inquired, "Who called you plumpy?"


    "Your dad." Scrunching his brows, he added, "He asked me id I have been eating alot because according to him, I look plumpy."


    "Don''t listen to him, I am sure he is just teasing you," she chuckled.


    Examining himself in front of the mirror for another couple of minutes, he declared, "I am not eating starting today."


    "What do you mean by you are not eating?" Ellie frowned.


    "I''ll eat something light like a salad."


    "What? I won''t let you start that stupid salad thing again." Glaring at him, she snapped, "Listen to me Sebastian Stewart, you are going to come here for breakfast and dinner everyday as planned. If you try to act smart and skip, I''ll seriously start staying here forever and leave you alone."


    "But¡ª"


    Walking towards him, she frowned, "And I don''t care if you look plumpy, I won''t care even if you look like a whole damn pumpkin but I won''t let you skip your meals like you did before again. Is that clear?"


    Gulping in nervousness, he vigorously nodded his head. "Okay, don''t get angry."


    "Good, now let me change the bedsheet of the other room."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 278 - Plumpy

    Ellie and Sebastian had just finished dusting and cleaning the room where she would be staying until her parents were in L.A, Judith approached them.


    "El, why is the refrigerator empty?"


    "I-I had to clean it in the morning so¡ªthe fresh ingredients are inside the grocery bag," she quickly answered.


    "Pumpkin, why is your balcony so dirty? There are dry leaves all over the place," Harry frowned.


    "Exactly and the house is so dusty. You don''t like dust, what happened?"


    When Ellie hesitated to answer, Sebastian quickly jumped for the rescue. "The water pipe broke while she was at work and by the time she came back home, this place was a swimming pool. When we called the plumber, he told us it was a major pipe burst which would take at least a month to fix so she had to move out for some time."


    "Where did you stay then? And why didn''t you tell us about it?" Harry inquired.


    "I didn''t want you to worry and besides it was a small thing, no one was hurt," she answered.


    "Well, as long as you are fine." Looking around, Judith sighed, "I''ll clean this place after I am done making the lunch."


    Folding his sleeves, Sebastian remarked, "Let me help you."


    "Let me know if you guys need an extra pair of hands." After Sebastian and Judith left, Ellie slumped on the couch.


    "You look tired, is work too hectic these days?"


    "No dad, work is fine. In fact, we just had a Gala a couple of days ago which went quite smooth. And¡ª" Wrapping her arms around his, she rested her head on his shoulder. "I have taken some time off from work so that I can spend all day with you and mom."


    Patting her hand, he smiled, "That is nice but won''t it be too hectic for Sebastian if you are not there?"


    "Dad, are you worried for Seb?"


    "Of course not, why would I be worried for him?" When Ellie started grinning, Harry sighed, "Well, maybe a little bit."


    Wrapping her arms around his waist, she chuckled, "You are the cutest, why don''t you just admit that you also care about Seb? I mean, it won''t harm to show some affection."


    "I am letting him date my daughter, is that appreciation not enough?"


    Placing her head on his shoulder, she smiled, "Seb said he is gonna manage everything, he wants me to spend quality time with you and mom."


    Letting out an affirmative sound, he sighed, "Well, at least he has some courtesy."


    "In the office, everyone is scared of Seb but you know whom he fears the most?" Without waiting for Harry''s reply, Ellie chuckled, "You, he is not even scared of his parents but when it comes to you, he breaks a cold sweat."


    Pausing for a while, he raised his brows. "Ellie Miller, what do you want from your father?"


    "What? I am just stating a fact¡ª" Sighing in dejection, she stated, "Fine but what I said is the truth, Seb is super scared of you."


    "Come to the point young lady."


    "Okay so the thing is, Seb''s mom wants to meet you and mom," she quickly blabbered in one breath. When a long unusual silence greeted her, she started freaking out.


    "Dad, at least say something," she insisted.


    After a really long pause, Harry finally said, "Your mom and I were thinking about meeting them too but¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Ellie beamed, "That is great, I will quickly ask Seb to fix a meeting."


    Patting her head, he inquired, "Honey, are you happy?"


    "Happy with Sebastian?" When he nodded his head, she smiled, "More than happy dad, he is a great guy."


    "Good, I just want you to be happy."


    ¡­.


    Dining area.


    "How are you going to manage everything in the office if Ellie takes a break that long?" Judith worriedly inquired.


    "Work isn''t that hectic these days and Ellie also needs to spend time with you both, I''ll manage everything," Sebastian assured her.


    "Are you sure?" When he smiled and nodded his head, Judith sighed, "You kids work too hard."


    "Sebastian is a workaholic if not controlled. You have no idea how intently he used to work before, even now I have to constantly keep an eye on him," Ellie added.


    "Work is important but you should also not forget to take care of yourself," Harry stated.


    "Exactly, this is why I have asked him to come over for lunch and dinner everyday otherwise I am sure he will keep working and skip his meal."


    "Ellie is right, you should come over and have lunch and dinner with us," Judith also insisted.


    Left with no other choice, Sebastian nodded his head.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s parents'' place.


    "We are meeting Ellie''s parents this Friday for lunch."


    Scrunching his brows, Arthur snapped, "Friday? Why did you fix the meeting on Friday?"


    "Why? What''s wrong with Friday?" Rebecca inquired.


    "I am going out of town for a meeting on Thursday, I won''t be back until Sunday."


    "I completely forgot about your business trip." Helplessly shaking her head, she sighed, "Never mind honey, I will meet them from our side. You can meet them later."


    "What are you up to Rebecca?"


    Placing her hand on her chest, she gasped, "What do you mean by that? Weren''t you the one who said I need to accept the fact that my son is dating Ellie?" Without waiting for his reply, she added, "So I am doing that, I am making sure that I am okay with it and still you are doubting my intentions."


    Staring at his wife for quite some time, Arthur remarked, "Don''t forget that Ellie is very precious to your son."


    "I know that."


    "Hmm apologize them from my side when you see them and tell them I''ll visit them when we go to Mellisa''s parents place."


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s old apartment.


    "Friday?" When Sebastian nodded his head, Ellie widened her eyes in shock. "That is only two days away."


    Placing his hand on her shoulder, he tried to calm her down. "Relax honey, there is nothing to freak out."


    "This is like the most important step of our relationship, we don''t even know if our parents will like each other and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he explained, "It doesn''t matter."


    "Of course it does Seb¡ª" Slumping on the bed, she sighed, "How are things gonna work if they don''t?"


    "Listen to me first." Without waiting for her reply, he explained, "They just need to have the will to stand next to each other. If they get along then that will be awesome but even if they don''t, that is not a big deal."


    "I just want everyone to get along and be happy." Looking at him, she added, "Is that too much to ask for?"


    "Come here." Pulling her into his embrace, he sighed, "You worry too much, stop stressing about things which are not in our control. Even I want them to get along but us wanting that will never change the fact that we can''t do anything about it. It completely depends upon them honey. We can''t take responsibility or force them to like each other if they want to."


    "Hmmm, you are right." Pressing her chin on his shoulder, she closed her eyes. "Maybe I''m just super stressed."


    Kissing the top of her head, he gently caressed her back. "You should take some rest, okay?"


    "You are going somewhere?"


    "I have to go home babe, it''s getting late."


    With a huge frown on her forehead, she looked at him. "You have to go home." When he nodded his head, she buried her head on his head. "I can''t hug you to sleep tonight."


    "Hmm, it''s just for a few days. We can video call at night and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she chuckled, "Are you suggesting we should talk all night like teenage couples."


    "Why not? I don''t have any problem, I can''t talk to you all day and night."


    ¡­...


    SPECIAL AUTHOR''S NOTE:


    Greeting Dear readers,


    2020 has been a very rough year for everyone around the globe, I would like to thank each and everyone of you for being a major part of my 2020. Despite the stressful atmosphere, your comments, reviews and support encouraged me to carry on and create these beautiful stories which are loved by many.


    Thank you for making my 2020 memorable and easy going.


    Let''s remember that only the year is ending but we have a long road ahead of us. I cannot wait to make you a part of my 2021 and the many more glorious years to come. Cheers to our blessed and angelic relationship, let''s strengthen this bond and keep loving each other till eternity ?.


    I hope I can keep making you smile, laugh and maybe also cry :p in the future as well.


    HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. STAY BLESSED AND SAFE :)


    Amidst the celebration, let''s not forget that 2020 is over but not the virus. Let''s keep taking measures and keep fighting.


    With love,


    Sofia?


    ¡­..

 Chapter 279 - Meeting

    [Changes have been made in chapter 278, please check it out before reading this chapter. Clear your cache and then restart the app to view the changes in the previous chapter.]


    Friday.


    Ellie''s old apartment.


    "So how is your pre-honeymoon going?" Ellie inquired.


    Groaning in satisfaction, Melissa exclaimed, "I swear this place is amazing, you and Seb need to come here for a vacation."


    "Noah was telling Seb about the place and I also saw the pictures you sent me, it''s really beautiful."


    "Of course it is girls, this place is awesome and the food here is so yummy."


    Rubbing her stomach, Ellie puffed her cheeks. "Don''t talk about food, I am hungry."


    "Hungry? It''s already three, didn''t you have lunch?" Melissa inquired.


    "No I didn''t, I am too stressed to even drink a cup of water," she exclaimed.


    "Why? What happened?" Melissa panic strickenly asked thinking something serious must have happened.


    Sitting up straight, Ellie excitedly exclaimed, "Mel I told you about this big day a few days ago. My parents are meeting Seb''s mom today for lunch." Glancing at the watch, she took a deep breath. "I think they must be having lunch by now."


    "Oh my God, I completely forgot about it." Squealing in excitement, she added, "How do you feel? I wish I was there to give you some moral support."


    "Yeah I¡ª" Pausing for a while, Ellie added, "Mel, Seb is calling me. I''ll talk to you later, okay?" Without waiting for her reply, she quickly hung up and received Sebastian''s call.


    "Why didn''t you receive my call earlier?" she complained.


    "I was stuck in a meeting. Why is everything in this office so dull and frustrating when you are not around?" Sebastian sighed.


    "You are thinking about the meeting, aren''t you worried about what is happening there?"


    "Honestly, I was super stressed about it before the meeting started but now I can''t stop thinking about all the good things that will happen after this official meeting." Without waiting for her reply, he added, "Dad called me today, he told me he will visit your parents in Seattle when they go there with Noah''s parents."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she sighed, "Seb, Don''t you think all of this is too good and pleasant?"


    "What do you mean honey? Didn''t you want things to be this way? Good and pleasant."


    "I did but¡ª" Slumping on the bed, she sighed, "I feel this is just too good."


    "You are overthinking again Ellie, don''t stress about it so much." Sebastian knew Ellie was in a state of anxiety and panic since morning. Though he was super stressed too, he didn''t want to reveal it to her. He didn''t want to increase the level of her anxiety.


    "I¡ª" A sudden unexpected knock on the main door interrupted her. "I think someone is here, let me go and check."


    "Alright, be careful."


    "I''ll call you after attending the door, I love you." Without waiting for his reply, she hung up the call and rushed towards the main door.


    ¡­.


    Living area.


    As soon as Ellie opened the door, she scrunched her brows when she saw Harry and Judith. "What happened? Why are you guys home so early? Did something happen?" Her heart dropped when both of them did not say anything.


    Noticing the change in her expression, Harry quickly forced a smile. "No honey, everything went well and we had a great time."


    "Y-Yes, your dad is right," Judith quickly added.


    Looking at them simultaneously, Ellie frowned, "You guys are hiding something from me."


    "Why would we hide anything from you? It''s nothing like that," Harry assured her before entering the apartment.


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie inquired, "How was the lunch? Did you meet Seb''s mom?"


    "Of course we did, didn''t we go there to meet her?"


    Crossing her arms in the front, she asked, "did you guys have lunch?" When Judith smiled and nodded her head, Ellie added, "What was she wearing?"


    "S¡ªShe¡ªthat¡ª" When both of them hesitated, she took a deep breath.


    "You guys did not meet her, right?"


    Helplessly shaking his head, Harry sighed, "Honey, we waited for her until three but she never showed up."


    "Maybe she was busy with work or something else. Why don''t we just fix another meeting and¡ª"


    "That''s okay mom, no one has to meet anyone now." Without waiting for their reply, she rushed towards her room, grabbed her bag and phone before rushing out of the apartment.


    ¡­..


    Stewart International Group.


    Sebastian''s office.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian called Ellie once again. It had been thirty minutes since he had been trying to call her but no one answered the call. Worried that something might have happened, he was about to leave for her old apartment when someone barged into his office.


    "Ellie¡ª" he muttered before rushing towards her. Looking at her tear stained face, he panicked. "What happened? What are you¡ª? Why are you crying? Is everything okay?"


    "No Sebastian, nothing is okay," she exclaimed.


    Placing his hands on her shoulder, he panic strickenly inquired. "Why are you crying? Tell me what happened¡ª"


    "Tell you what? There is nothing to tell or to say."


    "El¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she snapped, "Do you want me to tell you how your mom never showed up and my parents ended up three hours in an unknown place? Do you want me to tell you how humiliating it was for my parents? Though they are saying it''s not a big deal, I can feel how bad they must be feeling."


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian asked, "Hold on a second, are you saying that my mother did not show up for today''s lunch meeting?"


    Before Ellie could say anything, Rebecca entered the office along with multiple shopping bags in her hand.


    "Mom, what are you doing here?" Sebastian frowned at his mother.


    Sitting on the couch, Rebecca sighed, "I had gone shopping with my friend, I bought so many things for you as well. Come have a look."


    Barging towards her, Sebastian snapped, "You went shopping? You were supposed to meet Ellie''s parents for lunch today. They waited for you in the restaurant for three hours."


    .....


    Special Author''s note.


    Sorry for the unexpected long hiatus. Things were really tough recently but everything is back on track. Updates will resume from today :)


    is rolling out a new feature in which the readers can choose the books they want the authors to continue writing by adding then in their library (Just like how readers pick up books in the trial read section)


    I submitted a short story of mine for the test trial which will be running soon.


    The name of the novel is ''The Strings of Love'' you can add it in the library. More chapters will be added only after I finish the existing ones.


    Don''t forget to add it in your library, drop a comment and a review :)


    Happy reading :)

 Chapter 280 - Space

    Looking at Ellie, Rebecca gasped, "I completely forgot about it but anyway, just ask your parents to see me tomorrow. I am sure that shouldn''t be a problem, what important work could they possibly have."


    Fisting her hands, Ellie closed her eyes and took a deep breath to calm herself down. Without saying anything, she rushed out of the office.


    "Ellie wait¡ª" Sebastian shouted before rushing towards her.


    ¡­.


    Outside.


    Ignoring his calls, she quickly stepped into the elevator and left.


    Cursing under his breath, Sebastian quickly stepped into the other elevator and followed her downstairs.


    ¡­..


    Downstairs.


    As soon as the elevator door opened, Sebastian quickly rushed out and started looking for her. When he finally saw him, he called her out loudly, drawing everyone''s attention towards them.


    Without wasting any time, he rushed towards her and grabbed her wrist. "El, talk to me."


    Jerking his hand away, Ellie snapped, "Talk to you about what Sebastian? What do you want me to tell you? That whatever happened today was okay and we should forget about it? Do you want me to fix another meeting for them? What do you exactly want?"


    Grabbing her hand, he pleaded, "Say whatever you want but please don''t leave this way, please. Just give me a chance and I''ll fix it. I''ll¡ª"


    "How are you going to fix it? Can you turn back the humiliation that my parents had to face today?" Gently removing his hand, she added, "We are middle class people Sebastian, we aren''t as rich as you people. For us our dignity and self-respect is everything. My parents have always lived a life with dignity and I won''t let anyone take that away from them. Not even your mom or anybody else."


    "Ellie please¡ª" When he tried to get close to her, she took a step back making his heart drop. Though they were just a couple of inches apart from each other, he could feel a sudden vast distance between their hearts. What was going to happen now? Was he going to lose his Ellie?


    The mere thought of losing her made him shiver. The way she was looking at him left so familiar and unfamiliar at the same time. He wasn''t ready for this, he wasn''t ready to lose her.


    Closing her eyes, Ellie took another step back. "Please Seb don''t, I don''t feel great and neither do I have a sound mind. I don''t wanna say things which both of us will regret later so please, go away from here. I need to be alone for sometime, I really don''t wanna see anyone right now, including you. I need some time to think and clear my mind¡ªI¡ª"


    Stopping midway, she left and this time Sebastian didn''t chase her. He knew he shouldn''t let her go but for some unknown reason he stood there rooted on the floor. He couldn''t move even though he wanted to. Maybe it was because she told him not to or he was too scared to do anything because he thought he would end up losing her forever.


    The employees who had witnessed the whole scenario were shocked and horrified. They had never seen their big boss in a helpless condition. Anyone who saw Sebastian''s pale face could say he wasn''t in his usual self.


    Pushing through the crowd of people, Patricia quickly rushed in and guided Sebastian towards the elevator before gesturing to the employees to get back to work.


    ¡­..


    Two days later(Sunday evening)


    Sebastian apartment.


    "Try again," Calvin frowned.


    Banging the door, Noah scrunched his brows and repeatedly rang the doorbell while Owen was busy calling Sebastian who may or may not be inside.


    "Did you try calling the office? Is he not there?" Noah inquired.


    Calvin shook his head and answered, "We have been looking for him for a couple of days now, he is nowhere to be seen."


    "The bar, club and places where he never goes, we checked everything." After Ellie left, Sebastian was nowhere to be seen. He left office right away and never came back. Owen and Calvin had been looking for him everywhere for the past couple of days. When Noah and Melissa heard about the whole incident, they left everything behind and rushed back home to support their friends.


    "Did you check his place?" Noah inquired.


    "We dropped by and kept knocking but no one answered so we thought¡ª"


    Just then Ava arrived along with a spare keycard to the apartment. "Here, I got this."


    Taking the keycard from her hand, Noah quickly unlocked the door and inquired, "How is Ellie?"


    "I visited her yesterday, she doesn''t wanna see anyone. I met her parents, they told me she had locked herself in her room since Friday."


    Pinching the bridge of his nose, Owen sighed, "I thought they were the most sorted ones, what happened all of a sudden?"


    "But that is not the worst part." Without waiting for their reply, Ava added, "Ellie is leaving for Seattle with her parents tomorrow."


    "What?" The three men shouted in unison.


    Gritted his teeth, Noah snapped, "I am going to kick that bastards ass. He is supposed to make things and not disappear like this." Without wasting any time, he quickly barged into the apartment along with others.


    ¡­..


    Inside.


    When the pitch dark apartment greeted them, Owen frowned, "What the¡ª" Looking at the empty alcohol bottle on the floor, he sighed, "Okay, I think Seb was here."


    "It wasn''t here, he is here." Pointing towards the man who was sleeping like a log on the couch with multiple alcohol bottles scattered all over the floor, Ava added, "He is a mess."


    Taking a deep breath to calm himself down, Noah rushed towards Sebastian. "I know you are not asleep, stop pretending."


    Slowly getting up, he frowned at him. "What are you doing here? You were coming next week¡ª"


    "Uh huh that was indeed the initial plan but thanks to you I had to leave my pre-honeymoon midway just for you."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 281 - Messy Sebastian

    Burying his face on the cushion again, Sebastian groaned, "Why are you people shouting so much? My head hurts."


    Looking at the trash scattered all over the place, Ava frowned, "Why are you so messy? You were never this messy." When he did not say anything, she added, "Why aren''t you receiving our calls?"


    "Exactly, what if Ellie is the one calling you?" Calvin frowned.


    "I will know when she calls, her ringtone is a customized one," he answered.


    "Where are the dogs?" Looking around, Owen added, "I don''t see them."


    "They are upstairs in the bedroom, they don''t want to leave the room."


    "Are you feeding them?" Noah inquired.


    "Of course I am, Ellie will kill me if I keep our babies hungry."


    Sitting beside him, Noah sighed, "Brother, what are you doing?"


    "She doesn''t wanna see me, I f.u.c.k.i.e.d up everything." Sitting up straight, Sebastian added, "It''s all my fault, if I had been a bit more careful nothing of this sort would happen." How could he trust his mom when he knew how much she hated his relationship with Ellie?


    "I don''t know whose fault it is but I do know that Ellie is leaving for Seattle tomorrow," Ava informed.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian snapped, "What? Why is she leaving?"


    "You are asking us that? Shouldn''t you be the one knowing the reason behind it? Shouldn''t you be the one trying to fix this mess? But no, here you are drinking and becoming a big mess." Gritting his teeth, Noah snapped harder. "I leave my vacation midway without thinking twice because I know my brother needs me here but when I come back, I see him in a messy and helpless state. You are in a mess, the office is chaotic and as soon as I step foot in the airport, I find out that Danny Hudson is out on parole and is nowhere to be seen."


    "What? How did he even get one?" Getting up, Sebastian quickly grabbed his phone from the table. "I need to look for Ellie and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Noah scoffed, "Okay so now your brains are working again."


    "Wait a sec, you are going to meet Ellie looking at this?" When Sebastian frowned, Ava rolled her eyes. "You look horrible Seb though you still look handsome but look at yourself. You need to take a shower and a clean shave." Pushing him towards the stairs, she added, "Go make yourself presentable while we clean this mess you have created."


    "Yeah okay, I''ll be back in a minute." without wasting anymore time, he rushed towards his room while the others started cleaning the living room.


    ¡­.


    Inside the bedroom.


    After taking a quick shower, Sebastian changed into a pair of fresh clothes and made his way towards the dressing table.


    Scanning his eyes on the table, he frowned. "El, where is my watch? I¡ª" Stopping midway, he sighed and sat on the edge of the bed.


    Just then the two furry babies started whining and snuggling beside him. Gently caressing their head, he gave them a weak smile. "I miss her too but don''t worry, I''ll get mommy back no matter what happens and then we will go for a family beach time."


    When Bojo and Boji started barking and licking his hand, Sebastian chuckled, "You both love beaches, don''t you?" Bopping their nose, he started walking out of the room while the two furry babies followed them behind.


    ¡­..


    Downstairs.


    "Ava stop," Calvin tried to calm his girlfriend down who had been arguing with her mother.


    "Why should I stop? She is the one who needs to stop," Ava snapped before looking at her father. "We have always done what you guys wanted us to but it''s high time you let us do what we want. Especially Seb, he has always done what you and mom wanted and now after so many years, he wanted to do one thing, be the woman he loves but you guys are trying to take that away too."


    Taking a deep breath, Arthur placed his hand in Ava''s shoulder. "I know why you are so mad, I was mad too when I heard about the disturbing and disgusting thing that happened in my absence." Glaring at Rebecca who was standing right beside him without uttering a word, he added, "But I have no intention of putting up with this bulshit and I am here to make things right."


    Without waiting for anyone''s reply, he added, "I will go and talk to Ellie''s parents and apologize to them for whatever had happened in my absence."


    "Ellie is leaving for Seattle with her parents tomorrow," Noah informed.


    Scrunching his brows, Arthur snapped, "Then what are you guys waiting for? Where is Sebastian?"


    "He is¡ª"


    Just then Sebastian rushed down the stairs. "I just received a call from Ellie''s father, he told me she is missing for a couple of hours."


    "What? Where did she go?" Calvin inquired.


    Just then, Noah received a call from Melissa who told him Ellie was missing. "Don''t panic honey, we will be right there."


    Ignoring his mother, Sebastian turned towards his dad. "Danny Hudson is out on parole, can you call up the lawyer and ask him to take care of everything?"


    "How did he get out of the jail?" Arthur gritted his teeth before taking out his phone from the pocket. "I''ll handle everything, just go and look for Ellie."


    Briefly nodding his head, Sebastian was about to leave when Rebecca tried to stop him.


    "Seb¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he snapped, "I don''t wish to talk to you mother, I don''t want to say something that will make you feel disrespected." Without saying anything, he walked out of the room along with others.


    After talking to the lawyer over the phone, Arthur started walking out of the apartment leaving Rebecca behind.


    "Arthur¡ª"


    "Enough, don''t even try to give me an explanation. If you don''t like Ellie, why did you propose to meet her parents? Why did you make them feel so humiliated?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 282 - Peace

    When Arthur came back from his business trip, he received a call from Noah who told him about the entire incident. The fact that Rebecca took advantage of his absence to make a sly and dirty move made him furious.


    As soon as he arrived home, he snapped at his wife and quickly rushed to Sebastian''s place with the intention of making everything right but things had turned more chaotic which made him more mad at Rebecca.


    "You need to stop this behaviour of yours and apologize to Ellie''s parents," he stated.


    Scrunching his brows, she tried to retort. "Why would I apologize?"


    "I am not asking you, I am telling you that you have to." Without waiting for her reply, he walked out of the apartment before gesturing her to follow him.


    Balling her hand into a fist, she quietly followed him behind.


    ¡­.


    Ellie''s old apartment.


    "She just left, I¡ª"


    Squatting right in front of Judith, Sebastian grabbed her hand. "Please calm down and tell me what exactly she told you."


    "She just came out of her room and told me she is going out."


    "And when we asked her where she is going, she just told me that she wants peace," Melissa answered.


    Scrunching her brows, Ava inquired, "Didn''t you ask her anything else?"


    "I told her I''ll join her but she said she wanted to be alone for a while. I¡ª"


    "Where could she go?" Noah muttered before looking at Sebastian who had seemed to zone out.


    After a couple of seconds, Sebastian quickly got up. "I know where she is, I''ll get her."


    Getting up, Judith grabbed his hand. "Please bring her home safely."


    Giving her a hug, he nodded his head. "Don''t worry, I''ll bring her to your safe and sound."


    Looking at Harry who hadn''t said anything since he had arrived, Sebastian added, "I promise."


    Without wasting any more time, he rushed out of the apartment only to run into his parents. Before Arthur could ask him anything, he walked away.


    ¡­..


    Outside.


    "Seb¡ª" Owen called him out. "Tell us the address at least, we need to follow you."


    "I''ll send you the location." Without waiting for his reply, Sebastian hopped inside his car and drove away.


    "Where is he?" Noah inquired.


    "He just left, we need to follow him." Taking out his phone, Owen added, "He just sent me the address."


    "We need to leave."


    ¡­.


    After driving for almost twenty minutes, Sebastian stopped the car in front of the woods. He then quickly hopped out and rushed towards the garden-like place he had brought Ellie the very day they came back from Hawaii.


    While he was rushing further inside, he bumped into Gary, the caretaker of the garden.


    "Sir, you are here. I was about to call you," Gary informed.


    "Is she here?" he panic strikingly inquired. When he nodded his head, Sebastian rushed towards the spot he had shown Ellie earlier.


    Sebastian stopped when he saw Ellie. With her back facing him, she was standing right beside a tree while looking at the lake.


    Breathing a sigh of relief after finally seeing her, he slowly made his way towards her.


    "Ellie¡ª" he gently called her out.


    Turning around, Ellie frowned, "Seb, what are you doing here?"


    "Look, I know you don''t wanna see me but I wanted to see you. I¡ª" Stopping himself to rush forward and pull her into his embrace, he balled his hand into a fist. He wanted to hug her, kiss her and feel her touch but he also wanted to give her the space she wanted.


    Without waiting for her reply, he added, "I am not here to tell you that I can''t live without. I can live without you, I just don''t want to."


    "I know things are a bit hard now and it''s chaotic too but I can fix it, I swear I will. I can''t do this without you Ellie, I am a complete mess without you." Raising his left hand, he added, "Look, I couldn''t even find my watch without you. I need you El, not just for my watch or other things. I need to for my heart, I need you for my soul. I¡ª"


    When he stopped midway and turned around to stop himself from tearing up, she rushed towards him. Wrapping her arms around his waist, she buried her face on his back.


    When Sebastian felt her warmth against his back, he quickly turned around and pulled her in his embrace.


    Pulling away, she slapped his chest. "You sounded as if I broke up with you."


    "You didn''t want to see me and you are also leaving for Seattle tomorrow without letting me know, I thought you don''t want me anymore."


    "Of course I want you Seb, how can I ever not want you? I was just super upset and I was also planning to call you tonight," she explained.


    "Then why didn''t you and why are you leaving?" he complained.


    "I just wanted to go home and stay with mom and dad for a few days," she explained.


    Pulling her closer, he stated, "Okay then we will go together. We will stay there as long as you want. Don''t scare me like this, I lose myself when you are away."


    Pulling away, she hesitated for a while before saying. "Seb, your mother¡ª"


    "Don''t worry about her, I''ll take care of everything and this time, I won''t make any mistake. Just stay by my side and I''ll fix everything."


    Just then a loud scream startled both of them.


    "Who is that?" Ellie frowned.


    "I think that was Gary," Sebastian muttered before taking out his phone.


    "You better keep that inside your pocket Mr. Stewart," A man ordered before walking towards them.


    Tightening his grip around Ellie, Sebastian pulled her closer when he saw who it was.


    "You don''t seem happy to see me." Looking at Ellie, the man chuckled, "And Ms. Miller looks horrified."


    "What are you doing here Danny?" Sebastian calmly inquired.


    ¡­.

 Chapter 283 - Dannys end

    "That is a good question. I mean, you pulled all your strings to rot me in the jail but here I am, standing in front of you¡ª" Shrugging his shoulders, Danny added, "Well, I shouldn''t take all the credit."


    Pointing his chin towards Ellie, he added, "Thanks to your secretary¡ªgirlfriend who unknowingly led me to you."


    Tightening her grip around Sebastian''s sleeves, Ellie tried to pull him back. She didn''t want Danny to harm Sebastian in any way. Last time, she had saved him but this time things were different.


    Understanding her anxiety and fear, he tightened his grip around her hand before giving her an assuring look.


    Just then, Danny pulled out a pistol from his pocket and pointed it towards Sebastian. "You ruined my life Sebastian Stewart, you took everything away from me. Now I will take away something that is very dear to you right in front of your eyes."


    "Sebastian, El¡ª" Noah stopped midway when he saw Danny standing right in front of his friends with a pistol in his hand. He then quickly gestured Calvin something before stopping the others from stepping forward.


    Looking at the crowd of familiar faces, Danny chuckled, "Oh look, seems like the entire family is here."


    Pushing Ellie back, Sebastian took a step forward. "I am the one you should have a problem with, Ellie has nothing to do with this situation or you. Just let her go¡ª"


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie vigorously shook her head. "I am not going anywhere."


    Looking at her, Sebastian cupped her cheeks. "Babe, this isn''t the right time to act stubborn, okay? You go away with Noah and I''ll come back as soon as I finish dealing with this."


    "I am not acting stubborn, there is no way I am going to leave you alone and you know that very well." Before he could say anything, she added, "There is no point arguing with me over this." Grabbing his hand, she sighed, "Please don''t force me to do something I don''t want to."


    Laughing hysterically, Danny scoffed, "I wasn''t expecting to witness such a lovely romantic play but it''s also fascinating." Looking at Sebastian, he added, "Who would have thought that one day I will see you in such a helpless state."


    "Danny, you can''t go against the law. There is still time, you can surrender yourself and skip the consequences," Noah remarked.


    "Against the law? Do you think what you people did wasn''t against the law?" Gritting his teeth, he snapped, "You people ruined my life, Sebastian Stewart ruined my life. I lost everything, my family, the position in the company, everything. And all of this happened because of you people."


    Turning towards Sebastian and Ellie, he added, "You even turned my dad against me. My life is already ruined but I won''t let you live in peace. You have to pay for what you have done Sebastian Stewart." Taking a step towards them, he smirked, "Or should I take away something that is dear to you and make your life a living hell."


    Slowly pushing Ellie behind him, Sebastian stated, "Don''t even try to involve Ellie in this."


    "Why not? Didn''t this start because of her?" Without waiting for his reply, Danny added, "You refused to do any kind of business with me because of her. If not for that woman you are trying to protect, I would never try to kill you and I wouldn''t be in jail. Everything is happening because of her and now she has to pay the price."


    Before he could pull the trigger, a loud gunshot followed by a painful groan was heard.


    Holding his bleeding left foot, Danny groaned in pain before collapsing on the ground.


    Taking advantage of the situation, Noah quickly rushed forward and kicked the gun off his hand.


    Just then the policemen stepped forward and confiscated Danny.


    "Seb, Ellie, are you both okay?" Owen panic strickenly inquired.


    Pulling her into his embrace, Sebastian asked, "Are you okay?" When she nodded her head, he breathed a sigh of relief. "Everything is okay now, you don''t have to worry."


    "The police had already tracked Danny down. When they told me the location, I found out it was the same as yours. I tried to call you but you did not receive my call," Noah informed.


    When one of the police officers approached them, Arthur remarked, "Sebastian, take Ellie home, I''ll take care of things here."


    "I''ll stay and help him out, you all should go," Calvin stated before following Arthur.


    Looking at Ellie, Sebastian informed, "Your parents are worried for you, especially your mom. Let''s go home quickly, okay?" When she nodded her head, he quickly guided her towards the exit.


    ¡­..


    Next day.


    Airport.


    "Here is your coffee." Sitting beside Ellie, Sebastian inquired, "You seem a bit lost babe, what happened?"


    Looking at him, she inquired, "Is that true? Did you really refuse to do business with him because of me?" Before he could say anything, she added, "Is this something related to what happened during the first meeting with Danny Hudson?"


    Gently caressing her hair, he sighed, "Why are you still thinking about that? Everything is over now, it doesn''t matter how it started."


    Placing her head on his shoulder, she sighed, "I just feel bad and guilty."


    Intertwining their hands together, he kissed the back of her hand. "You don''t have to feel guilty. Come on now cheer up honey, we are going to Seattle to have fun. Don''t let anything spoil your mood."


    "You didn''t have to come with me, I¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he frowned, "Why wouldn''t I come with you? Do you want to have all the fun without me? Don''t you love me anymore?"


    "What if I say no?" she chuckled.


    "Hmm then I''ll have to work harder and make you fall in love with me all over again."


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, she said, "Seb, your mom¡ª" Stopping midway, she sighed in dejection. After whatever had happened, Ellie was sure that no matter what she did, Rebecca would never accept her. Though Sebastian always assured her that it didn''t matter but she still felt very bad and disheartened about it.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 284 - Apologies

    "Don''t think about that, what mom has done is unacceptable. I will never be okay with how she has treated your parents." When Ellie did not say anything, Sebastian added, "But for now, we don''t have to worry about anything. We are going to Seattle to spend time with your parents and have some fun. We will only do that, we will stay there as long as you want."


    "What about work? Melissa was telling me everything is messy in the office." Looking at him, she inquired, "What exactly happened after I left?"


    Hesitated for a while, he answered, "Well, nothing much actually."


    "Really?" she raised her brows.


    "Of course, what could possibly happen?"


    ¡­..


    Two days later.


    Seattle.


    Ellie''s parents'' place.


    "Seriously Seb? Why are you being so sly? Just admit that you are scared of bugs," Ellie chuckled.


    "Of course not, why would I be scared of anything?" Sebastian scoffed. When she raised her brows at him, he quickly justified himself. "It just jumped on my face all of a sudden so I got a little bit startled."


    Ringing the doorbell, she remarked, "Okay, after dinner, let''s go to the garden and look for bugs."


    Widening his eyes in shock, he snapped, "Why on earth would anyone look for bugs? And that too after dinner?"


    Inching closer, Ellie smiled. "Then just admit that you are scared of them."


    Before Sebastian could say anything, Judith opened the door. "You both are here." Turning towards Ellie, she said, "Honey, you should go up and quickly change."


    Looking at her clothes, Ellie frowned, "Why? Are we going somewhere?"


    "No we are not¡ªThis girl, why do you ask so many questions? Can''t you just listen to your mom and do what you have been told?" she sighed.


    "What happened Mrs Miller, you looked stressed. Is everything okay?" Sebastian inquired.


    "Oh Seb, why didn''t you tell me earlier that your parents will be visiting us today?" Before Sebastian could say anything, she added, "I could have made preparations and welcome them properly but¡ª"


    "Wait, Seb''s parents are here?"


    When Ellie gave him a fierce look, Sebastian quickly defended himself. "I swear honey, I had no idea."


    "Alright now stop discussing this and come in." Looking at Ellie, she added, "El, go up and change your clothes first¡ª"


    "I don''t think there is a need for that, she looks perfect," Sebastian remarked.


    "But¡ª"


    "You are worrying too much, please calm down and let me handle everything." When Judith nodded her head, Sebastian made his way towards the living room along with Ellie.


    When Ellie tightened her grip around his arm, Sebastian chuckled. "Now what are you worried about? Everything is normal and it will be so in the future as well."


    "I know but I am just¡ªI wasn''t expecting them to come here all of a sudden."


    "Hmm me neither."


    ¡­..


    Living room.


    "We apologize for dropping by without telling you Mr. Miller," Arthur remarked.


    "It''s completely alright," Harry smiled before offering them some refreshments.


    Looking around, Arthur inquired, "I don''t see Seb and Ellie, are they out?"


    "Yes, they wanted to take a walk in the park." Glancing at the watch, he added, "In fact, they should be here any minute now."


    Just then Ellie and Sebastian arrived.


    "Ah there they are, I was just asking about you two." When Ellie greeted them, Arthur smiled. "I hope you are okay now dear."


    "Yes sir, I am fine," she answered before giving Rebecca a weak smile. Though she was still uncomfortable and not okay with the way Rebecca had treated her parents, she didn''t want to ignore or disrespect her.


    "When did you come to Seattle?" Sebastian asked his father before sitting right across him.


    "A couple of hours ago."


    "Is uncle Sam and aunt Rosy also here?"


    "They will be here tomorrow, your mom and I came early because we wanted to come here and meet Ellie''s parents." Turning towards Harry, Arthur explained, "I want to apologize for what happened a few days ago. What my wife did was not at all acceptable and also highly inappropriate."


    Without waiting for anyone''s reply, he added, "I wanted to meet you both that day as well but I had to fly out of the country for some official business purpose. I am very disappointed with what has happened and I know nothing can fix it but I still wanted to come here and tell you how ashamed my family is for that incident."


    "You don''t have to apologize Mr.Stewart, it''s completely alright. In fact, we already forgot about it. I mean, what is the point talking about what happened in the past when it doesn''t matter anymore," Judith remarked.


    "Judy is right, we just want the kids to be happy together," Harry added.


    Looking at Sebastian, Arthur raised his brows. "Do you have any idea how lucky you are?"


    "Of course I know I am lucky dad," Sebastian chuckled.


    Turning towards Rebecca who was quiet all the while, Arthur snapped, "Is there something you wanna say?"


    Awkwardly nodding her head, Rebecca reluctantly said, "I apologize for not showing up that day, I met some friends and forgot about the meeting."


    Smiling at her, Judith said, "It''s alright."


    Just then Rebecca received a call from someone. "I need to take this."


    After she excused herself, Ellie remarked. "Dad, why don''t take sir and show him that plant? Maybe he can give you some tips."


    "I love plants, how did you know that?" Arthur inquired.


    Wrapping his arms around Ellie''s shoulder, Sebastian grinned, "You see, El is doing her homework."


    "I am highly impressed." Looking at Harry, he asked, "And what plant are we talking about here?"


    "It''s a Bonsai I bought last month, it''s condition isn''t that good. No matter what I do, there is no improvement," Harry explained.


    "Ah let''s go and have a look then, maybe my little knowledge will help us save it."


    After Harry and Arthur left, Judith said, "You kids should go and freshen up, I will start preparing dinner now."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 285 - "You have changed"

    "Mom I''ll help you out."


    "It''s okay honey, take some rest."


    After Judith left, Sebastian hugged Ellie from behind. "Are you happy now?"


    "Your dad is really very sweet."


    "Hmm I wish he was this sweet when I was young," he chuckled.


    "You wouldn''t be you if he was extra sweet with you." Turning towards him, she hooked her arms around his neck.


    "Maybe I would be someone jolly and happier."


    "But I prefer the cold, strict and annoying Sebastian Stewart," she remarked.


    Pulling her closer, he frowned, "Did you just call me cold and annoying?"


    "Uh huh, maybe I did," she chuckled.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "You are inviting trouble babe."


    "Hmm I like trouble, especially when the trouble comes from your side." Inching closer, she added, "You can trouble me as much as you want."


    Widening his eyes in shock, he babbled, "You seriously need to stop this, I am getting excited and since we are here and my parents are here too, I can''t possibly do anything which is also very exciting."


    Slapping his chest, she started laughing hysterically while pulling his cheeks. "Why are you so cute?"


    "I¡ª" Before Sebastian could say anything, Ellie lightly pushed him away and took a step back.


    Not understanding what had happened, he was about to enquire when he saw his mother.


    "I should go upstairs and change." Without waiting for anyone''s reply, she rushed upstairs leaving Sebastian behind.


    "Where is your father?" Rebecca inquired.


    Walking towards the stairs, he answered, "He is in the backyard with Mr. Miller."


    "Why are you walking away? I am talking to you Sebastian," she snapped.


    "There is nothing left to talk about between you and me mother." Before she could say anything, he added, "You have already made it clear that you are not willing to accept Ellie into the family, which is fine. I can''t force you to accept her and Ellie doesn''t want that too. But let me tell you one thing, she is a part of my life and my family no matter whether you like it or not. Nothing is ever going to change that."


    "You are my mom and you know me well, I am not someone who gives up or gets carried away no matter what happens," he remarked.


    Sighing in spite, Rebecca said, "You have changed."


    "I haven''t changed mom, this is who I am. This is the real me and I don''t wanna change again," he stated before walking upstairs.


    ¡­..


    Ellie''s room.


    "Go take a shower and change, I''ll go down and help mom." Ellie instructed before passing him a bathrobe.


    Wrapping both his arms around her waist, Sebastian smiled, "It''s funny how you still try so hard to keep things away from me but miserably fail at doing that."


    Fidgeting with his shirt button, she inquired, "Did she say anything?" When he nodded his head, she sighed, "You know what, don''t tell me what she said. I will just unnecessarily start overthinking and my mood will start going downhill."


    Kissing her forehead, he assured her. "Don''t worry, nothing is going to go wrong but something might happen if we don''t meet Noah and Melissa in an hour."


    "Yes, Mel called me and she was freaking out. Aren''t Noah''s parents coming tomorrow?"


    "Yes they are, we need to meet Noah and Mel and give them some moral support," Sebastian added.


    "Of course we have to. Ava told me she will be here by tomorrow as well," Ellie informed.


    "Okay, I will quickly take a shower and we will rush to see them."


    ....


    An hour later.


    "Will you stop freaking out already? You are scaring me," Sebastian frowned.


    "Dude, you have no idea how freaked out I feel. I mean, I am getting married to the woman I love and I don''t even have a perfect ring for her. What am I supposed to give her? I don''t wanna be the guy who gives some normal ass shift common ring to my wife, "Noah started ranting.


    His parents would be coming to Seattle tomorrow to meet Melissa''s parents and to talk about their wedding which was scheduled in two weeks time.


    Glancing at his phone, Noah frowned, "And the f.u.c.k are these guys when I need them the most?"


    "Who are we talking about here?" Sebastian inquired.


    "Calvin and Owen, I told those idiots to come soon."


    "I thought they were coming tomorrow."


    "Oh yes they were but I forced them to come today, they took the late flight," Noah informed.


    Crossing his arms in the front, he curiously asked, "And why would you do that?"


    "Because things run super smoothly when we four are together." When Sebastian gave him a weird look, Noah defended his action. "I just don''t wanna take any risk, I am getting married, it''s huge."


    "Will you chill already?" Placing his hand on Noah''s shoulder, he tried to calm him down. "Look, I know this great place where they make customized engagement and wedding rings. You can give your own design or tell them what kind of ring you want and they will design the exact same one of you in a week''s time."


    "Really?"


    "Yeah, as soon as we fly back to L.A, I will take you that place and we will order the rings, okay?"


    Placing his hand on Sebastian''s shoulder, he remarked, "You know I trust you, right?"


    "You can trust me."


    ¡­..


    "So you think Noah will change after we get married?"


    "Noah? I don''t think so, why are you suddenly asking me this?" Ellie inquired.


    Shrugging her shoulder, Melissa answered, "I don''t know, I just read an article last night which said that men happen to change after they get married. So it made me wonder if it''s true."


    "Of course it''s not, why would Noah change? Maybe he will turn extra sweet after you both get married," Ellie chuckled.


    "Wouldn''t I kick his balls if he changed even a tiny bit?" Fisting her hand in the air, Melissa scoffed, "I will kill him actually."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 286 - The next step....?

    "I am sure you don''t have to take such dangerous steps," Ellie remarked.


    "Hmm but you never know, men are weird." Without waiting for her reply, Melissa grabbed Ellie''s hand and curiously inquired, "Forget about us, let''s talk about you and Seb."


    "What about us?"


    "Tell me what is going on. I mean, you and Seb are having a good time but what now?"


    "What do you mean?" Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed, "Be more specific."


    "When are you both planning to take the next step? Like getting engaged or married?"


    Keeping quiet for quite some time, Ellie answered, "I think we are not there yet."


    "You mean you are not there or you think Seb is not there?"


    Shrugging her shoulder, she sighed, "I don''t know Mel, I mean I am there but¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Melissa remarked, "Girl, I am very sure that Seb is one hundred percent already there."


    "Look, with everything that happened recently, I just don''t want to think about such things. You know what is the exact thing going on with Seb''s mother. Everything is still complicated, we need some time to fix it." Though she knew there was a slim chance of Rebecca liking her after everything that had happened, she still didn''t wanna lose hope. She wanted to share a decent relationship with her before they took their relationship to the next level.


    "Hmm, well you are right to but I don''t think Seb sees it that way." When Ellie gave her a weird look, Melissa quickly explained, "I mean, you know he doesn''t care about whether his mother accepts this relationship or not."


    Before Ellie could say anything, she quickly added, "Okay, let''s not talk about this for now. My wedding is in two weeks'' time, we have a lot of shopping to do before that."


    ¡­..


    Two days later.


    L.A


    "You gotta be kidding me," Calvin snapped.


    "What?"


    "Seriously, when did we start trusting Seb for such romantically important things?" When Sebastian frowned, Owen quickly added, "No offense dude but it''s you."


    "Exactly, though you have a girlfriend, we still have trust issues with you regarding things like this because of the past experiences," Calvin explained.


    After finalizing the wedding date, the entire group flew back to L.A to prepare for the wedding.


    When Calvin and Owen learned that Sebastian was the one who suggested the place Noah was buying the wedding ring from, the duo started raising their doubts. They didn''t want to trust Sebastian''s choice even though they believed his choice had improved after meeting Ellie.


    Glancing at his watch, Noah sighed, "Where is Brandon?"


    "He is stuck in traffic, he should be here any minute now," Sebastian answered before glaring at the two men who were doubting his ability.


    "What are you staring at? We are just being good friends," Owen defended themselves.


    "You guys talk too much, don''t force me to be rude or mean to you people again," he snapped before turning towards Noah. "And you¡ª"


    "Hey, don''t yell at me. What did I do?" Noah frowned.


    "Do you trust me or not? If not then there is no point going in and checking this place out. You should ask these idiots to take you to a better place," Sebastian stated.


    Shrugging his shoulders, Noah quickly said, "Of course I trust you Seb, why wouldn''t I? You are my best friend and my brother."


    Satisfied with Noah''s answer, Sebastian smiled, "Good, now let''s go in."


    Leaning towards Owen, Calvin whispered, "He is still the same."


    "I heard that," Sebastian snapped before entering the store along Noah.


    ...


    Inside the store.


    Looking around, Owen inquired, "So they really make customized wedding rings?" When Sebastian nodded his head, he added, "How did you find a place like this?"


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, Sebastian answered, "Well, I just happened to find it and¡ª"


    "Mr.Stewart, welcome back," One of the employees greeted him. Without waiting for Sebastian''s reply, the employee panic strickenly inquired, "Is something wrong with the ring? Did madam not like it?"


    "What the¡ª" Scrunching his brows, Noah yelled, "Dude, you bought a wedding ring?"


    "Exactly, why would you buy a wedding ring?" Owen frowned.


    Widening his eyes in shock, Calvin gasped, "Unless you have plans of proposing Ellie."


    Helplessly shaking his head after seeing the dramatic reactions, Sebastian excused himself from the employee. "Can you please give us a moment?"


    "Sure sir, take your time."


    After the employee left, he frowned at his friends. "Can you guys be a little less embarrassing?"


    "Embarrassing? Dude, you are the one who is embarrassing our friendship and brotherhood," Noah snapped.


    "Woah, why do you guys look so hyped up?" Brandon, who had just arrived, inquired.


    "Sebastian is buying wedding rings without telling us," Owen complained.


    "Hold on, Sebastian is buying wedding rings without telling you people, I already knew about it."


    "What? You knew about it?" Jerking his head towards Sebastian, Noah started whining. "So you told Brandon and not me? How can you do this to me Seb? I thought we were best buds."


    "Of course we are best buds¡ª"


    "Your actions do not justify your words," Noah scoffed.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian sighed, "Can we please not talk about this now/ We are here to pick up a wedding ring for Melissa and Noah so lets focus on that." When the three men gave him a threatening look, he quickly added, "I swear on God, I will tell you guys each and everything later."


    "Okay, after doing this, we are going to an expensive restaurant and you are paying the bill," Clavin stated.


    ...


    Evening.


    Sebastian and Ellie''s place.


    When Sebastian arrived home, Ellie was busy petting Bojo and Boji who were snuggling on their mommy''s lap.


    Leaning against the couch, he smiled at them. "They really missed you a lot when you were gone."


    "I was just gone for two days." Walking towards him, she wrapped her arms around his waist. "You were the only one who made a big fuss about it."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 287 - Big fuss

    "Big fuss? How can you say that?" Scrunching his brows, he complained, "You left me alone in this big house."


    "Only for two days¡ª"


    "But still, I was cold and alone," he further added.


    Pinching his nose, she retorted, "Let me remind you Mr. Sebastian Stewart, you used to live alone in this house."


    "That was before, things have changed now. I can''t handle the loneliness anymore, I need my cuddles."


    "Well then, how are you going to stay here alone for a whole week?" she chuckled.


    Puffing his cheeks, he complained, "Don''t even remind me of that, I am still not okay with you going to Seattle with Melissa."


    "Seb, it''s her wedding and I am the maid of honor. I have responsibilities."


    "Well, you have responsibilities towards me as well. What about that? Who will fulfil those?" he remarked.


    Squeezing his cheeks, she chuckled, "You look super cute when you start whining." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "Now go up and freshen up, dinner is almost ready."


    "When are you flying out again?" he inquired.


    "Friday," she answered.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "I can''t even follow you this time."


    "Of course you can''t, since Noah is on an official leave, there are so many things you need to attend to."


    "Yeah and my assistant is also ditching me. Where is your work ethic Ms. Miller?" he frowned.


    Patting his cheeks, she chuckled, "Don''t worry about that, I have already scheduled everything for you and I will also hand over everything to Patricia before I leave." When Sebastian started whining again, she added, "Don''t forget you are the best man too, you need to stay here and help Noah out."


    "There is actually nothing to help but still, I have to stay."


    "Yes, now go freshen up."


    Giving her a peck on her lips, Sebastian rushed upstairs. "I''ll be back soon."


    After he left, Ellie was about to walk towards the kitchen when her phone started ringing. Looking at the caller ID, she quickly received the call. "Hey mom."


    "Hey honey, were you doing something? Did I disturb you?" Judith inquired.


    "No, whats up?"


    "I just came back from Melissa''s place, we prepared the invitation cards," she stated.


    "That is nice," Ellie smiled. "Aunt must be super excited."


    "Yes she is, I am so excited for her but everything is so rushed." Judith sighed. "I told Harry that we won''t rush like this during your wedding, we¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ellie chuckled, "Wait a second, where did my wedding come from?"


    "What do you mean by that? Melissa is getting married, of course you will get married soon too. In fact, your dad and I have already started talking about it," Judith remarked.


    "Mom, there is still time for that."


    "You have such a nice man by your side, why are you so hesitant?"


    "Seb and I haven''t thought of that yet and I don''t think we will for quite some time." Before Judith could say anything else, she quickly added, "Mom, I need to make dinner now. I''ll talk to you later, I love you."


    After hanging up the call, she pondered for a while before shrugging off all the unnecessary thoughts before entering the kitchen.


    ¡­..


    A day before Melissa and Noah''s wedding.


    Seattle.


    Melissa''s place.


    "So this is how we are going to celebrate your bachelorette party?" Ava frowned before grabbing a packet of potato ch.i.p.s from the bed.


    "Yup, I wanted to keep it low. I don''t wanna do anything wild a day before my big day," Melissa stated before sitting on the bed.


    "In short, we will just sit, drink some wine and have snacks all night," Ellie added.


    "Seriously, this is the most boring bachelorette party ever," June sighed.


    "I know right? I mean, if it was some other girl gang, they would surely be watching a s.e.xy hot stripping dancing shirtless," Charlotte scoffed.


    "Exactly." Helplessly shaking her head, Ava sighed, "Let''s not repeat this when we celebrate Ellie''s bachelorette."


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie curiously inquired, "Wait, why is everyone talking about my wedding these days?" When everyone pretended to ignore her question, she scoffed, "Why do I get a silent treatment whenever I ask this question?"


    "Because you are overthinking," Ava remarked.


    "Exactly, that day June mentioned how we should go on a trip before I get married," Charlotte added.


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting Ellie off, Melissa explained, "Girl, will you stop thinking about it? It''s my big day afterall. I am going to officially be called Mrs. Stewart starting tomorrow." Fanning herself, she took a deep breath. "I am nervous now."


    "Oh my God, you are also going to be my sister-in-law officially." Squealing in excitement, Ava gave her a hug. "This is awesome."


    While the women were enjoying their silent yet exciting bacherellete, the men were fussing over how boring their party was.


    ¡­..


    Hotel Gigina.


    Pouring five glasses of wine, Calvin sighed, "You know, I was so excited for today."


    "Yeah me too, where is the fun? Where is the stripper and what about the music?" Brandon complained.


    "Exactly, is this even a party?" Owen added.


    "Strippers? Melissa will strip me and then throw me into a lake if I get strippers," Noah stated. Looking at Sebastian who was quietly enjoying his drink, he added, "Anyway, my best man isn''t in his best mood today."


    Raising his brows, Brandon chuckled, "Seb, are you freaking out?"


    "Who? Me? Not at all," Sebastian scoffed. "Why would I freak out?"


    "It''s a big day tomorrow so maybe I thought you were."


    "Of course he is, just look at his face," Calvin chuckled.


    "Yeah, he looks more nervous than Noah who is actually getting married," Owen remarked.


    Looking away, Sebastian declared in a very low and unsure tone. "I am not nervous."


    "Uh huh, are you sure?" Noah inquired.


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "Okay, maybe a little bit but not more than that."


    "Pfft just chill man, Noah is the one getting married not you," Brandon remarked before walking towards him.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 288 - The Big Day

    "But if I would have been in your place, I would be nervous too." Without waiting for his reply, Brandon added, "I mean, you are the best man and you are also doing the big thing so¡ª"


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian snapped, "Are you here to make me feel more nervous or to motivate me?"


    "Of course to motivate you but you see my friend, chances like this are very rare."


    "What are you talking about?" Owen inquired.


    "I mean, you don''t get to see Sebastian Stewart being a scaredy cat everyday," Brandon chuckled. "And besides, it''s fun teasing you bro."


    "Stop it you guys, don''t make my best man more nervous. He has to give the speech tomorrow and there are other things he has to handle too," Noah jumped to the rescue.


    Crashing on the couch, Calvin sighed, "So we just sit and chat all night?"


    "Uh huh, it has been days since I last gossiped," Owen added.


    Sitting on the floor with his legs crossed, Brandon beamed. "Okay so what are we gossiping about?"


    "Hmm not exactly gossiping but why don''t you tell us how are things going on with Charlotte?" Calvin inquired.


    Groaning in satisfaction, Brandon answered, "It has never been better. She is amazing and not to forget about the amazing bond she shares with grandpa. It''s just shocking to see how well they have bonded in a very short time. But Ellie is still his favourite, he talks about her all the time."


    "Ellie seriously has this unique thing about bonding with everyone." Looking at Sebastian who had a proud smile on his face already, Owen added, "I wonder what went wrong while bonding with your mom and¡ªouch"


    Rubbing the back of his head which had been smacked but Clavin, who was sitting right next to him, Owen complained, "Dude, that hurt."


    "How can you even mention such unpleasant things when we are trying to spend some great time together?" Calvin chidded


    "Owen is right though but I won''t blame Ellie for anything related to aunt Rebecca." shrugging his shoulders, Noah added, "Aunt is a bit different and kinda hard to befriend."


    Nodding his head in agreement, Sebastian sighed, "I agree with that, mom had always been like this. She loves it when things are done according to her and she gets mad when things start going the other way." Pausing for a while, he continued, "She never wanted or expected me to be with someone of my choice, maybe she had plans for me. But since things took a different way, she isn''t happy."


    Without waiting for anyone''s reply, he added, "To be honest and after everything that has happened, I don''t really care about what others think about my relationship with Ellie. If they are happy, well and good and if they are not, then there is nothing we can do about it."


    Grinning from ear to ear, Noah remarked, "I am so in love with this new version of Sebastian."


    "I know right? Ellie has really changed him a lot for good," Calvin added.


    ¡­..


    Room no: 125


    Looking out of the window, Arthur sighed, "I hope the weather doesn''t ruin the wonderful wedding plans." Walking towards the bed, he added, "It''s after all a big day for Noah and Melissa."


    When Rebecca, who was busy packing their clothes did not say anything, Arthur raised his brows. "Why are you so silent today?"


    "Do you want me to be as excited as you are?" Without waiting for his reply, she snapped, "It''s not my son''s wedding."


    "Noah is family and like our son too. Anyway, I am sure you won''t be excited when our son gets married too. What was I even expecting?" he scoffed.


    Pursing her lips, Rebecca snapped, "You are right, I can never be excited because I am not like you. I still can''t accept that woman for my son and¡ª"


    "Instead of using ''that woman'' all the time, why don''t you try using her name? She had a very good one, Ellie." Walking towards her, he placed his hand on her shoulder. "Listen to me honey, why don''t you talk to her properly first? I am sure you will love her once you get to know her better. Don''t judge people without knowing who they are. And even if you don''t want to, you really don''t have a choice."


    Without waiting for her reply, he further added, "If you keep repelling her, you will end up losing your only son. If you don''t wanna lose Sebastian then you need to think wisely and make a healthy decision."


    "Sometimes we need to change our decisions for kids and it isn''t like Seb is doing something wrong. Just calm yourself down and think about it, okay?" When Rebecca nodded her head, Arthur left with a slim hope in his heart that his wife would change for good but little did he know that unexpected things were waiting in the future.


    ...


    THE BIG DAY.


    "Do you think I should wear something else?" Swirling around, Noah pouted his lips. "Do you think I look fat?"


    "Oh yes, you shouldn''t have eaten that fries yesterday. You look very bloated now," Owen commented before fixing his hair.


    Scrunching his brows, Noah snapped, "I was just saying it randomly, I don''t look bloated." Looking at Sebastian with pitiful eyes, he added, "I don''t, right Seb?"


    Without taking his eyes off his phone, Sebastian just nodded his head. He was too busy reading something to pay attention to what others were talking about.


    "Today is Noah''s wedding yet Seb is the one who looks f.u.c.k.i.e.d," Brandon chuckled before wrapping his arms around Sebastian''s shoulder. "Dude, you need to chill."


    "Huh? What did you say?" When everyone gave him a weird look, Sebastian awkwardly cleared his throat. "I was busy with something important."


    "What is more important than your brother''s wedding?" Noah frowned.


    Shoving his phone inside his pocket, he remarked, "We should go down and greet the guests." Glancing at his watch, Sebastian muttered, "I need to see Ellie as well."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 289 - The Big Day II

    Outside the wedding venue.


    "Ah someone looks handsome today." Fixing his tie, Ellie smiled. "Why didn''t you come early?"


    Wrapping his hand around her waist, Sebastian sighed, "Because I am a stupid man." Gently caressing her cheeks, he added, "You look so beautiful."


    "Thank you so much but you might want to change that statement after you see our bride," she stated.


    "You will still be the most beautiful one for me."


    Squeezing his cheeks, she chuckled, "Look at you being cheesy again." Lifting his left hand, she glanced at his watch. "Oh God, it''s almost time. You are supposed to be with Noah honey, what are you doing here?"


    "I just wanted to see you, I feel a bit nervous," Sebastian stated before kissing the back of her hand. "I think I need a quick kiss."


    Giving him a peck on his cheeks, she gave him a hug. Placing her head on his chest, she said, "I know you are nervous for Noah but trust me, Mel and Noah are gonna be okay and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he sighed, "I am not nervous for Noah, I know he is gonna ace the wedding."


    "Then?"


    Gently kissing her forehead, he answered, "I see you at the ceremony, okay?"


    Before Sebastian could leave, Ellie grabbed his hand. "Seb, is everything okay?"


    "It had never been better." When she gave him a weak smile, he tapped the tip of her nose. "You know I love you, right?"


    When she smiled at him, he reluctantly left. He couldn''t wait for the ceremony to get over and hoped that everything would go well.


    ...


    Wedding venue.


    "Harry, stop making faces," Judith snapped.


    "What?" Shrugging his shoulders, Harry added, "She is making faces too."


    "Stop looking at them," she slowly muttered before smacking her husband''s arm, who had been making faces at Rebecca for quite some time now.


    "I can forget what she did with us honey but I am definitely not okay with how she has been treating our daughter. I swear, if not for Sebastian and his father, I would never agree for this relationship." Scrunching his brows, he added, "How can anyone hate my daughter?"


    "You can''t expect everyone to react the same way. And does it really matter? Please don''t create a scene here Harry and stop acting like a kid. You are the father of a young woman who might also get married very soon," Judith snapped at him. Though she was also uncomfortable with how Rebecca treated Ellie, she still wanted to respect her opinion and choice.


    "Why would I create a scene here? I am stating the fact that I don''t like her, can I not express my feelings as well?"


    "Harry, I was looking for you everywhere." Giving him a hug, Arthur further inquired, "Have you been busy?"


    "Not really, I just arrived," Harry answered with a sincere smile on his face. Though he wasn''t fond of Rebecca, things were different with Arthur. Not only did he like the fact that Arthur was good to Ellie but also because he was a great man.


    After Arthur and Rebecca visited their place, Harry became quite close with him and even shared a couple of meals together until they were in Seattle.


    Standing a far corner, Calvin and Owen were looking at the two men in amus.e.m.e.nt.


    "Dude, did you see that?" Owen chuckled.


    "Yeah I did, they look close." Helplessly shaking his head, Calvin sighed, "Things are really going very smooth for Seb, I am kinda jealous now."


    "Me too but I am also happy for him." Looking at him, Owen inquired, "What about you and Ava? When are your parents meeting each other?"


    "You gotta be kidding me, what makes you think I will bring my mom to meet Ava''s mother? I want a peaceful relationship with Avan dude, I don''t wanna start some kind of a cold war." Without waiting for Owen''s reply, Calvin added, "We will take things slow."


    "Hmm taking things slow is nice but I am not sure if this slow thing is gonna to work after I propose June around next month," Owen stated.


    "Wait what?" Calvin frowned. "What''s with you people and weddings? Why would you do that?"


    "Dude, we aren''t getting any younger and with the number of competitions these days, it''s only wise to book what is meant to be yours immediately. I don''t want anyone else to take June away from me."


    Scrunching his brows, Calvin muttered. "I am sure if we are there yet. I mean, it feels like we started dating yesterday and¡ª"


    Cutting him off, Owen stated, "You don''t have to do it just because everyone is. You need to be sure first and Ava too."


    When Calvin did not say anything for a long time, he patted his shoulder. "Come on, now don''t start stressing over it. The wedding is about to start, we should check on other things."


    ¡­..


    Inside the hotel room.


    "Okay, I think we are ready to go. Your dad is waiting for you out¡ª" Ellie stopped midway and frowned when she noticed Melissa, Ava and June staring at her with a sly smile on their face.


    "Is something wrong?" Looking at her dress, she inquired, "Is something wrong with my dress?"


    Vigorously shaking her head, Melissa answered, "Nothing is wrong with your dress, you look beautiful."


    "Exactly, you look amazing," Ava commented.


    "Oh El¡ª" giving her a hug, Melissa smiled, "I am so happy and the fact that I can''t cry because that will ruin my makeup sucks. Let''s cry together after my wedding."


    Though she was finding everyone''s behavior weird, Ellie decided not to press on it thinking it might be nothing. But little did she know that things would turn out to be different.


    Hugging her back, she smiled, "Let''s do that later but it''s not like you are going away or something. We will still constantly meet everyday even after you become Mrs. Stewart."


    "Okay girls, let''s keep the emotional talks for later. We seriously need to leave otherwise Noah will surely think we helped Mel run away before the wedding," Ava remarked.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 290 - The Big Day III

    Wedding Venue.


    "Seb, honey are you okay?" Judith inquired.


    "Y-Yes, I am," Sebastian answered in a very unsure voice.


    Scrunching his brows, Harry stated, "Naoh is the one getting married, why are you sweating so much? Are you not feeling well? Do you want me to take you to the hospital?"


    Vigorously shaking his head, Sebastian took out a handkerchief from his pocket and quickly wiped his forehead. "I am fine, I don''t know why I am feeling so hot." Pointing towards the dazzling black suit he was wearing, he added, "I think something is wrong with this suit."


    "I think something is wrong with your head, son," Arthur remarked before walking towards him. "Are you nervous for your brother?"


    "I think he is." Helplessly shaking his head, Harry sighed, "Just look at his face, he looks like he just encountered a ghost or something awful."


    "Guys, I really appreciate that you all are having fun but for now, can we please focus on my wedding? I am getting married but no one seems to give a f.u.c.k about it," Noah complained.


    "How can you say that? Of course everyone cares about your wedding son, in fact that is why we are here." Glancing at his watch, Arthur added, "We should rush and start the ceremony before your father starts shouting his lungs out."


    ¡­..


    Stretching his hand towards Ellie, Sebastian smiled. "You ready?"


    She nodded her head before placing her hand over his. "Yes. I didn''t know I was walking in with you."


    "Of course babe, you are the bridesmaid and I am the best man." Raising his eyebrows at her, he inquired, "Why? Are you nervous?" Before she could say anything, he inched closer. "Don''t worry, it''s not our wedding, you can relax. Let''s save that nervousness for our wedding, okay?"


    "Guys, I know you guys are madly in love with each other. Can we please finish this quickly so that you both can take this love to the hotel room?" Calvin, who was standing right behind them, couldn''t help but interrupt them.


    ¡­..


    An hour later.


    After the smooth and lovely wedding which took place without any kind of interruption, Calvin, Owen and Brandon were busy teasing Noah who had started crying so hard after seeing Melissa in the wedding gown that he couldn''t even say his vows properly.


    "Will you guys just stop being such an ass?" Looking at Noah who was busy staring at his wife, Charlotte added, "Don''t listen to them, you looked super cute."


    "I know," Noah boldly agreed.


    While everyone was laughing around and having fun, Sebastian was silently standing with his hand pressed against his pocket.


    Finding his behavior quite strange and unusual, Ellie quickly approached him. Placing her hand on his shoulder, she inquired, "Is everything okay? You don''t look good."


    Awkwardly clearing his throat, he gave her a weak smile and nodded his head. "Yeah, I am okay."


    "Did you lose something or did something happen?"


    "No, everything is good. Why do you ask?"


    "Hmm, just like that. I just feel something is bugging you," she answered before pointing towards his hand which was pressed against his pocket all the while. "Is there something important inside?"


    "No," he quickly answered before wrapping his hand around her waist. "You want to eat anything?"


    "Not really."


    "I¡ª" Before Sebastian could say anything, Arthur called him over.


    Kissing the back of her hand, he said, "I''ll be right back, stay with them."


    After he left, Ellie couldn''t stop thinking what Sebastian wss upto. Though he had assured her there was nothing, she knew that wasn''t the complete truth.


    "What? You both aren''t going for a honeymoon?" Ava''s sudden sharp and shocked voice interrupted Ellie''s thoughts.


    "No we are not going anywhere. In fact, we will fly to L.A with you people," Melissa answered.


    "But why? I thought you people are going to take a long break," Ellie frowned.


    Noah nodded his head and explained, "Well, that was the initial plan but we decided to postpone it as we came back from our mini pre-honeymoon not too long ago."


    "Exactly, we have all our lives to go around now. We just want to stay at home and enjoy each other''s company," Melissa added.


    "That sounds much more relaxing."


    "Okay, let''s forget about our honeymoon for now and let''s talk about¡ª" Lifting her flower bouquet up, Melissa exclaimed, "Who is going to catch this when I toss it over my shoulder."


    "Ahh I almost forgot about this," Ava chuckled.


    "Wait, so whoever catches this has to marry next?" Owen inquired.


    "Well, that is what the tradition is all about."


    Stroking his chin, Brandon looked at Charlotte. Walking closer, he whispered, "Do you want to catch it?"


    Startled by the sudden unexpected question, Charlotte widened her eyes in shock. "Wait, what?"


    "I mean, you can catch it if you want to. I¡ªI will be happy if you do," he stated before awkwardly clearing his throat.


    Squeezing his cheeks, she chuckled, "You should seriously look at your face right now, you look like a shy kid."


    "I am just being a good boyfriend," he exclaimed.


    Patting his cheeks, she smiled, "I am impressed with your sincerity but don''t worry, I won''t catch the bouquet."


    Scrunching his brows, he curiously inquired, "And how are you so sure about it?"


    "You will see."


    ¡­..


    A few  hours later.


    Everyone gathered at the entrance after the ceremony for the bouquet toss tradition.


    Looking around, Ellie frowned when she could not find Sebastian.


    "Whom are you looking for?" Ava inquired.


    "I am looking for Seb, did you see him anywhere?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, she answered, "No, he might be around. Don''t worry about him." Hooking her arms around hers, she added, "Let''s focus on the bouquet tossing ceremony."


    "Girls, are you ready?" Melissa excitedly exclaimed before waving the flower bouquet towards them.


    "Yes," All the single ladies who were standing in a distance, shouted unanimously.


    "Alright, get ready¡ª" With her back towards the crowd, Melissa exclaimed, "Let''s see who gets married next."


    Swinging her arm twice, Melissa did not toss the bouquet. Instead, she turned around, took a couple of steps towards the crowd and handed the flower bouquet directly to Ellie.


    ...

 Chapter 291 - The Big Day(IV)

    Astonished and confused by the sudden unexpected approach, Ellie took the bouquet in her hand. With her brows scrunched, she was about to say something when someone tapped on her shoulder.


    Turning around, she saw Sebastian standing right behind her with a smile on his face. She tightened her grip around the bouquet when her eyes landed on the small maroon velvet box in his hand. And before she knew it, he was on his knees, right in front of her.


    "Your presence completely changed my life. Not only did you make it more beautiful but also meaningful. You gave me a very beautiful reason to carry on, you gave me yourself and your love. So¡ª" Taking the ring out of the box, he added, "Ellie Miller, will you accept this ring and me for the rest of our lives? Will you marry me and be mine forever?"


    Without tears streaming down her cheeks, Ellie vigorously nodded her head before giving him her hand.


    With a huge satisfied grin on his face, he quickly slided the ring into her finger without wasting a single second. He then quickly got up and pulled her into his embrace. "I love you."


    Pulling away, she placed her hand on his cheek and smiled, "I love you too."


    "I will always love you, I promise," he stated before pressing his lips against hers.


    Squealing in excitement, Melissa jumped into Noah''s arms. "Oh my God, this is even more exciting than our wedding."


    Placing his hand on Harry''s shoulder, Arthur smiled, "We are officially in-laws now."


    Giving him a hug, Harry patted his back. "Yes, we are a big family now."


    "So we have one more wedding to attend," Jeremy, Mellisa''s father exclaimed.


    While everyone was congratulating the newly engaged couple, someone did not seem very happy with the sudden change in events.


    Judith, who did not fail to notice the sudden sourness in Rebecca''s expression, slowly approached her. "Sometimes, we have to let go of our stubbornness and beliefs for the sake of our childhood."


    Without waiting for her reply, she added, "Harry and I never wanted Ellie to work outside Seattle let alone getting married to someone who lives in a completely different city. As she is our only daughter, we wanted to keep her close and find the most eligible man for her ourselves. But as our daughter grew bigger, we understood that her dreams and passion are bigger than we had thought. We couldn''t convince ourselves to restrict her freedom just because we had planned it for a long time. So we decided to let her go and do what she wants."


    "Mrs Stewart, I know you had your own plans for your kids, so did we. Things never go as planned. Unexpected changes in events are normal because that is how life works. Maybe if things had gone as you had planned, everything would be different but our kids are happy the way things are. And now all we have to do is cherish each and every moment with them. This will not only make them happy but also make everything more beautiful," she explained before walking away.


    Tightening her grip around her purse, Rebecca pursed her lips while staring at Ellie and Sebastian who were all smiles and happy.


    ¡­..


    A week later.


    Ellie''s parents'' place.


    "Mom, what is this meeting about?" Ellie curiously inquired without taking her eyes off the room where Harry and Sebastian were having a private meeting.


    Stirring the soup, Judith shrugged her shoulders. "I have no idea honey, your father just strictly instructed me not to let anyone in for sometime as he wants to discuss something important with Seb before you guys leave for LA tomorrow."


    Scrunching her brows, Ellie complained, "Well, he could just talk here right in front of us."


    "Will you stop whining like a child and just sit down for a while? They are men, maybe they are discussing something important." Turning down the flame before covering the pot with a lid, Judith inquired, "Now while they are having their secret talks, why don''t you and I have ours."


    "Okay, what do you wanna talk about?"


    "How are things going with Seb''s mother? I heard she called you yesterday?" Judith asked.


    Ellie nodded her head and answered, "Yes she did."


    "What did she tell you?"


    "Hmm she wants to meet me after we go back to discuss a few things about the wedding," Ellie hesitantly answered.


    "That is nice but you don''t seem very happy or convinced about it." When Ellie did not say anything, Judith added, "Honey, what happened?"


    "I don''t know mom, after everything that happened, I am not very comfortable with her. I know she is Sebastian''s mother and I can''t avoid her but¡ª" Stopping midway, Ellie sighed, "Why is everything so smooth yet so compliacted?"


    Gently caressing her head, Judith explained, "I know how you are feeling right now and it''s completely normal for you to feel that way. But I think you are feeling this way because you are still thinking about the things that happened in the past."


    "Despite everything that happened, you are Sebastian managed to overcome that and now you both are preparing to start a whole new journey. That is what matters honey, the present matters not the past or future. I know what Sebastian''s mother did in the past has hurt you alot but that was also the past. Now, in the future, she is trying to approach you and maybe she wants to make things right. All you have to do is, give her a chance and make thighs completely smooth now," she further explained.


    "You think so?"


    Judith nodded her head and answered, "Of course, when someone is trying to make an effort to make up for his or her past mistakes, you gotta give them and show them your appreciation."


    Gently caressing her cheeks, she stated, "Always remember one thing Ellie, it takes a lot of courage to make things right. Not many people can do it. Since she is ta being courageous and taking a step, you should have a big heart and make her feel comfortable."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 292 - Rebeccas approach

    "Seriously mom, how do you do this?" Ellie sighed.


    "Do what?"


    "Making things so easy for me just by saying a few wise words."


    "You will understand after you become a mother yourself," Judith smiled.


    Just then, Sebastian came out of the room along with Harry.


    "You both are done? Dinner is also almost ready. Why don''t you both freshen up first?" Judith instructed before gesturing Ellie.


    Without wasting any time, Ellie quickly grabbed Sebastian''s hand and dragged him upstairs.


    ...


    Ellie''s room.


    "Babe, calm down. What are you so hyped up about?" Sebastian chuckled.


    "Of course I''ll be hyped up and curious until you tell what kind of conversation you just shared with dad."


    Crashing on the bed, he casually answered, "Not something that you shouldn''t know." Touching the soft linen of the bed, he sighed, "Damn, I''ll miss this bed and room so much."


    Sitting beside him, she smacked his arm. "Do you want to piss me off?"


    "What? Of course not, why would I want that?"


    "Then tell me everything," she demanded.


    Tapping the tip of her nose, he chuckled, "My cute little curious wife."


    Slapping his hand away, she frowned, "I am not your wife yet."


    "But you will be soon." Wrapping his arms around her waist, he smiled, "I can''t wait to call you my wife officially."


    Grabbing his collar, she snapped, "Don''t try to change the topic Mr Stewart. Be a good husband and tell me everything."


    "Okay, I will tell you everything but in return you have to promise me something."


    "Okay, I promise now tell me."


    "Wait, you did even hear what it is¡ª"


    "Whatever it is, I promise now tell me."


    "Alright, we were just discussing a few things about the wedding," Sebastian answered.


    "About the wedding? Like what?" she curiously inquired.


    Placing his head on her lap, he explained, "He told me the wedding will be held in Seattle and as you are his only daughter, he wants to bear all the expenses. He doesn''t want me to interfere in anything. I think he has already planned everything. He just wants us to tell him everything that we want for the wedding."


    "Wait, what?"


    Nodding his head, he sighed, "I tried to object but he scolded me a lot so I didn''t have any other choice. I had to agree."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he added, "Now don''t stress over it and to be honest, he sounded more excited for our wedding than we are. I didn''t want to make him feel disappointed or upset by intertwining in his plans."


    "Do you think I should talk to him?"


    "You can if you want to but I don''t think he will listen to anyone." Without waiting for her reply, he added, "Which reminds me, dad wants us to come over for dinner tomorrow. Are you okay with that?"


    "Of course, why would I not be okay with that?" she stated.


    ¡­..


    Next day


    L.A


    Sebastian''s parents'' place.


    "Then let''s go for a double honeymoon after you guys get married. What do you think?" Melissa suggested.


    "That sounds like a great plan, I don''t mind," Sebastian exclaimed before looking at Ellie.


    "But if all four of us leave, who will handle things in the office?" Ellie frowned.


    Helplessly shaking his head, Arthur sighed, "See, this is what happens when you accompany a workaholic all the time."


    "Exactly, our Ellie sounds like Sebastian." Looking at Ellie, Samuel added, "People are talking about your honeymoon trip and here you are thinking about the office and work."


    "Yes, don''t worry about work. Sammy and I will handle everything while you kids have fun," Arthur stated.


    "Though we haven''t worked for a while, I am sure we are still capable of handling everything."


    "Well then everything is sorted. We should quickly decide our destination and plan everything  Noah grinned.


    "Does this mean I can take a vacation as well?" Ava excitedly exclaimed.


    Shaking his head, Sebastian answered, "Of course not, you have to work hard."


    "Your brother is right, we will give you a long vacation when you get married," Arthur added.


    Pointing towards Calvin, Ava chuckled, "So you mean I have to marry him to get a vacation?"


    Scrunching his brows, Calvin complained, "Hey, what do you mean by marry him? If not me, whom will you?"


    Shrugging her shoulders, she sighed, "True, I don''t really have a choice."


    "Ava, stop teasing him." Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian sighed, "Just look at his face, it''s red already."


    "Exactly, it looks like Calvin is about to cry,"  Melissa added.


    "I am not crying," Calvin frowned before looking at Ava who was already grinning at him.


    Pulling his cheeks, she chuckled, "Don''t be mad now, I was just fooling around with you."


    Just then Rebecca arrived, drawing everyone''s attention. "Ellie, come with me."


    Sebastian frowned and was about to retort when Ellie grabbed his hand to stop him. Gesturing him that she would be okay, she quietly left along with Rebecca.


    ¡­..


    Rebecca''s room.


    "Come inside." As soon as they entered the room, Rebecca made her way towards the wardrobe while Ellie awkwardly waited for her. She had no idea what Rebecca wanted from her but she also didn''t want to question her. Though she was still not comfortable with her, she still decided to take her mother''s suggestion and try to normalize things between them.


    While Ellie was immersed in her deep thoughts, Rebecca approached her with a box in her hand. Before she could ask anything, she handed it to her.


    "This is Sebastian''s paternal grandmother''s jewelleries. She gave it to me when I was about to marry Arthur so I am doing the same." Pausing for a while, Rebecca added, "Sebastian is my only son, I had my own plans for him. But since he has already taken his decision, I have nothing else to say. I hope you will always keep up with our family traditions and beliefs without any objection."


    "Of course, I will and¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Rebecca remarked, "Good, you can go down now. Everyone must be waiting for you."


    Giving her a weak smile, Ellie nodded her head and quietly left.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 293 - Strange feeling

    Around midnight.


    Ellie and Sebastian''s apartment.


    Gently caressing her hair, Sebastian sighed, "What is it?"


    "What?"


    Pulling her closer, he answered, "I mean, what is bugging you at this time?"


    "Umm it''s nothing¡ª"


    Cutting her off, he remarked, "If  you don''t tell me, you know I will keep asking you so let''s cut the chase honey. Tell me what happened, did mom tell you anything?" when she shook her head, he added, "Then what is it?"


    Placing her head on his chest, she sighed, "Today when your mother handed me the jewellery box which actually belonged to your grandmother, I don''t know why I felt like she gave it to me just because she had too but actually she didn''t want to. Are you understanding what I am trying to say?"


    "Hmm I am."


    "She also told me she had plans for you." Pausing for a while, she chuckled, "I am also very curious about the plans she had for you."


    "Why are you curious about that? I am so glad she never got a chance to execute those plans. My life would suck completely if that happened," he sighed before helplessly shaking his head. Though Rebecca had never mentioned the ''plans'' she had for him, Sebastian could easily guess what it might have been.


    "Do you think she will ever like me? I mean¡ª"


    Cupping her cheeks, he explained, "For the hundredth time babe, you don''t have to stress over that. Even i f she doesn''t, it''s okay. We are not getting married to please or impress anyone else. We are getting married for us and I love you, isn''t that enough?" When she nodded her head, he continued, "So stop stressing over it and get some sleep, we have a long week ahead of us."


    ¡­..


    A couple of weeks later.


    "Oh come on, we need to have a grand party this time," Ava demanded.


    "Exactly, no offence but Mel''s bachelorette was bleh. We need to at least party our asses off this time," Charlotte added.


    "Of course we will, what makes you think I will spare a single thing for my best friend''s bachelorette party?" Rubbing her palms together in excitement, Melissa added, "We will have a wild party."


    "Yeah, that is not gonna happen," Noah commented before entering the room along with Sebastian and Calvin. "We have already planned everything."


    "What do you mean?" Ava frowned.


    "We are going to have a joint bachelorette this time."


    Scrunching her frowned, Melissa scoffed, "How does that even make sense?"


    "Exactly that is not even a thing," Charlotte retorted.


    "Yes but we will make it a thing."


    "But¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ellie explained, "Actually, Seb and I already discussed this before. We don''t want anything extravagant or grand. So why don''t we all just hang out and party together?"


    Groaning in frustration, Ava snapped, "I swear, if you people do this during my bachelorette, I am gonna kill you guys for real."


    "Alright, where are we going?" Charlotte inquired.


    "Calvin is incharge of that, he will arrange something great," Sebastian answered.


    "And that will also be your wedding gift from our side." Sitting beside Ava, Calvin added, "Don''t worry about anything else."


    ...


    Four days before the wedding.


    Sebastian''s parents'' place.


    "Did you pack everything?" When Rebecca just nodded her head, Arthur sighed, "It''s your son''s wedding, can''t you be a little more enthusiastic?"


    "What is there to be excited about? It''s not like the wedding is a grand one and there are many things to take care of? It''s a small wedding with a very few things to take care of," she snapped.


    "I can''t believe you are still fussing over it. Kids are getting married and everything is normal now, can''t you just make your peace with it?" he frowned.


    "Does it really matter whether I am okay with it or not? You have already made your peace with it so be happy and enjoy it. Let me just do whatever I want to," Rebecca stated before walking out of the room.


    Grabbing her hand, Arthur growled, "What do you mean by that?"


    Without saying anything, she jerked her hand off before walking out of the room.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian and Ellie''s place.


    "So are they coming to the wedding as well?" Charlotte inquired before ruffling Bojo and Boji''s fur simultaneously.


    "Of course they are, how can we not take them?" Taking out a red dress from the wardrobe, Ellie sighed. "Do you think this will look okay?"


    "Girl, you are glowing these days, even if you wear a rag you will look gorgeous. Trust me."


    "I will take that as a yes," she chuckled.


    "Where are we going today?" Charlotte inquired.


    "It''s some hotel which has this amazing pub. Sebastian was telling me about a project which he is working on with Calvin. I don''t know exactly but I have a feeling it''s related to the hotel we are going today," Ellie explained.


    "That sounds nice, lets have fun today."


    Just then Ava entered the room. "This is weird," she muttered.


    "What happened?" Charlotte inquired.


    "Something very strange happened." Sitting on the edge of the bed, she added, "Mother called me and she was exceptionally sweet."


    "Okay, so you are worried because she was sweet to you?" Charlotte chuckled.


    Ava nodded her head and explained, "Yes, she is never this sweet. I mean, she does talk properly when she is in a good mood but not so sweetly like she did today. She even told me to have fun at the party today, which is also very strange because she doesn''t like it when I party hard with everyone."


    Scrunching her brows, she added, "Call me mean but why do I feel like she is up to something."


    "Even I felt a bit weird when she called me when I was in Seattle, but then I did not think much because I thought maybe she is trying to be nice," Ellie remarked.


    "Trying to be nice?" Ava scoffed. "We are talking about Rebecca Stewart here, she won''t try to be nice even if she realizes that it''s her fault."


    "Shrugging her shoulders, Ellie sighed, "Maybe we are just overthinking."


    ¡­..

 Chapter 294 - Avas instincts

    "Exactly, what can she possibly do?" Charlotte remarked.


    "Yeah, let''s not fuss about this. I am sure she is just being weird."


    Shoving the weird thoughts aside, the three of them started talking about the party which was scheduled in the evening. But little did they know, things were about to get a little more complicated.


    ¡­..


    An hour later.


    "When are they coming?"


    "Seb just called me, he is at your parents place and¡ª"


    Scrunching her brows, Ava inquired, "At this time? Why?"


    "I have no idea, he was telling me your mother called him over," Ellie answered.


    "Oh okay, so are we waiting for him or¡ª"


    "Seb told me he will be sending the car. We can leave first and then he will directly join us there."


    "What about others?" Charlotte inquired.


    "Mel and Noah will meet us at the hotel, what about Calvin and Brandon, are they coming to take you or¡ª"


    "Oh no, I already told Brandon that I will be coming with you," Charlotte answered.


    "Let me call Calvin and tell him the same, let''s go together," Ava added.


    Glancing at the watch, Ellie remarked, "I think we should go down already, it''s almost time."


    "You guys start going, I''ll be there in a minute."


    After Ellie and Charlotte left, Ava quickly called Calvin to inform about the change in plans.


    ...


    Downstairs.


    When Ava reached downstairs, she frowned when she saw a familiar car which definitely did not belong to Sebastian. "What happened?" she asked Charlotte who was standing not too far away.


    "I have no idea, El is talking to Sebastian," she answered.


    "Good evening madam," the chauffeur quickly greeted Ava.


    "Good evening Mr. Bryce, what are you doing here?" Looking at the car simultaneously, she further inquired, "Is mom here too?"


    Mr. Bryce shook his head and answered, "No, madam is at home."


    "Then what are you doing here?" she suspiciously questioned him.


    "I¡ªI am here to fetch Ms. Ellie," he stuttered for a while before answering.


    Raising her brows, she remarked, "You are here to take Ellie in mom''s car?" When he slowly nodded his head, she scoffed, "Seriously, am I drunk already? Because I think I am hallucinating things."


    Just then, Ellie arrived and informed, "We should leave."


    "What did Seb tell you?"


    "His car broke down so he sent some other car for us," she answered.


    "Seb sent this car or mom?" Ava inquired before looking at Mr. Bryce.


    Finding her behavior strange, Ellie was about to ask her what was wrong when Ava stepped forward, towards the chauffeur.


    "Tell me Mr. Bryce, who sent you? Sebastian or mom?" Ava questioned him. When he did not say anything, she sighed, "Alright, we should leave."


    Widening his eyes in shock, the chauffeur snapped, "We? Only Ms. Ellie is going in the car, right?" When Ava raised her brows, he quickly added, "I mean, I was instructed to pick up only Ms. Ellie so¡ª"


    Cutting him off, she started questioning him. "Who told you that? My brother?" Without waiting for her reply, she further added, "Did he tell you not to drop me along with Ellie?"


    "N¡ªNo, I¡ª" stopping midway, he gave her a weak smile. "Please sit inside the car, I will be back in a minute."


    Before he could step away, Ava stopped him. "Where are you going for a minute? To pee or to call my mother?"


    Fl.u.s.tered by the sudden statement, the chauffeur panicked. Before he could justify himself, Ava took a step towards him.


    "Now why don''t you tell me what is going on before I force it out from you," she snapped.


    Mr. Bryce was Rebecca''s personal chauffeur for the past fifteen years. Since he was one of the people Rebecca trusted a lot, he was very loyal to her. No one from the main house was allowed to use Rebecca''s personal chauffeur apart from her, not even Ava or Sebastian.


    The fact that Rebecca sent her personal chauffeur to pick Ellie in her car was very suspicious and it made Ava wonder what her mother was actually up to. She couldn''t wait to find out what kind of scene was Rebecca trying to create this time.


    "I-I¡ª" Mr. Bryce stuttered, no knowing how he was supposed to answer Ava. He was just following Rebecca''s instructions and was doing what was told to him.


    "Ava, what is going on?" Ellie curiously inquired who had no idea what was going on.


    "Will you tell me what is going on or should I just call dad and tell him about your suspicious activities? And trust me, if I do that, not even mom can save your ass from getting fried," Ava snapped at him.


    "I¡ªI seriously don''t know what you are talking about madam, I¡ª" He widened his eyes in shock when Ava took out her phone.


    "You very well know how mother is, she will definitely not take your side and save your ass if I tell dad about your suspicious behavior. Now why don''t you act wisely and tell me what you are up to before I do something that will bring you trouble."


    When he did not say anything, she sighed, "It seems like you will confess everything only in front of dad and Sebastian."


    Before he could say anything, she instructed, "Pass me the car keys."


    "But¡ª"


    "Now."


    Left with no other choice, the chauffeur gave her the keys.


    "I want your cell phone as well, just in case you try to inform my mother about the busted plan." After getting her hands on his cell phone, she turned it off.


    "Will you tell us what is going on?" Charlotte frowned.


    "I will but first, why don''t you both get inside the car? We need to go somewhere first before resuming our party plans," she explained before gesturing the chauffeur to step into the car as well.


    When Ava made her way towards the driver''s seat, Ellie widened her eyes in shock. "Wait, are you going to drive?" She had heard stories about Ava''s atrocious driving skills from Sebastian and Calvin. In fact, Sebastian had warned her not to let Ava drive if they would go somewhere.


    ¡­..


    AUTHOR''S NOTE:


    GREETINGS,


    The story has been marked completed.


    The five chapters under privilege will drop at reset (2/day) systematically.


    Please don''t forget to read the special note in the finale chapter :)


    Sofia?

 Chapter 295 - Rebeccas evil intentions(I)

    "Don''t worry, I got this. Come on now, sit fast. We have an interesting drama to unfold."


    Looking at each other, Ellie and Charlotte gulped in nervousness. Left with no other choice, they quickly hopped into the car.


    ¡­.


    Inside the car.


    The chauffeur who was forced to sit on the passenger seat alongside Ava, nervously inquired, "Madam, I can take you wherever you want to go."


    "And what makes you think I will trust you? What if you take us somewhere and murder us?"


    "Madam, what are you saying? I would never hurt you or anyone," the chauffeur exclaimed.


    "Then why did you insist on taking Ellie alone? Why did you hesitate after seeing me? What were you up to?" When he did not say anything, Ava shrugged her shoulders, "Maybe you wanted to harm Ellie?"


    Widening his eyes in shock, he snapped, "Why would I harm Ms. Ellie?"


    "Exactly, I am waiting for you to tell me what you are up to or maybe you will speak when Seb or dad will ask you the same question," she stated before turning on the engine. "You have one last chance to tell me because if I start driving, this car will directly stop in the main mansion."


    Contemplating for a while, the chauffeur hesitantly answered, "M-Madam told me to fetch Ms. Ellie from here and¡ª"


    "And what?"


    "S-She told me to bring her somewhere." Without waiting for anyone''s reply, he further explained, "But I don''t know anything after that. She told me to pick her up and take her to the address she had provided."


    "What?" Ellie frowned.


    Looking at Ellie, Ava scoffed, "She is my mother El, when I say she is up to something, it means she is definitely up to something. Some people never change no matter what happens and Rebecca Stewart happens to fall in that category of people." Without wasting any more time, she drove away.


    ....


    Sebastian parent''s place.


    "Why are you so interested in the wedding all of a sudden? Where was this enthusiasm until yesterday?" Arthur suspiciously inquired.


    "Sebastian is my only son, if we don''t prepare for his wedding who will? And I don''t want some middle wedding for him¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Sebastian snapped, "Everything has been already arranged, you don''t have to take all the trouble. Just come to the wedding and give us your blessings, Ellie and I will be more than happy with that."


    Without waiting for her reply, he was about to leave when Noah, Melissa and Calvin arrived.


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian inquired, "What are you people doing here?"


    "We were on our way to the hotel when Ava told us to come here instead," Calvin answered.


    "Yes, seems like she has something important to say," Melissa added.


    Just then, Brandon, Owen and June arrived as well. When they told everyone the same thing, Sebastian quickly called Ava.


    "She is not receiving the call," Calvin informed.


    Scrunching his brows, he quickly called Ellie, hoping they would be together.


    ¡­..


    Inside the car.


    "It''s Seb."


    "Pick up and tell him we will be there in ten. Ask him to keep everyone there, including dad and mom," Ava instructed.


    "El, where are you?"


    "I am with Ava and Charlotte, we are coming. Is everything already there?" Ellie inquired.


    "Yes, everyone is here but what happened?"


    "I¡ªI can''t tell you anything clearly but Ava wants you to keep everyone there until we arrive."


    "You are okay, right?" he panicked.


    "Yes, I am fine and so is Ava and Charlotte. We will be there in ten, wait for us," she answered before hanging up the call.


    Looking at Ava, Ellie sighed, "Can we not make a scene out of this? Can''t we just let it go?" With the wedding around the corner, she didn''t want to make a scene.


    "Of course not, there is no way I am going to let her slip out of this so easily. Mom always thinks she can win no matter what it is. Now it''s time to make her realize things won''t always work according to her will," Ava explained.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian''s parents'' place.


    "What happened? Are they okay?" Arthur inquired.


    "Yes, they are coming here. Ava wants everyone to stay here," Sebastian informed.


    Just then, Rebecca''s phone started ringing. Glancing at the caller ID, she quickly hung up the call.


    Melissa, who was standing not too far away, didn''t fail to notice the sudden change in Rebecca''s expression.


    When she repeated the same action a couple of times, Melissa called her out. "I think you should receive the call aunt, maybe it''s something important."


    Before Rebecca could say anything, Ava entered the mansion along with the chauffeur, Ellie and Charlotte.


    "Ah great, everyone is here. Just like I wanted," Ava sighed in relief before turning towards the chauffeur. "Now why don''t you tell everyone the exact same thing you told us in the car."


    "Bryce? What are you doing with them?" When he did not say anything, Arthur frowned, "What is going on? Will anyone tell me?"


    "Master I¡ª" Stopping midway, he looked at Rebecca, hoping she would rescue him.


    "Let''s just cut the chase, I don''t have the patience to wait for him to speak anymore." Looking at Sebastian, Ava inquired, "Did you send him to take Ellie?"


    "My driver told me that the car broke down and since I was here, I instructed the security to send someone else instead. But I had no idea, he was the one fetching Ellie," Sebastian answered.


    "And moreover, aren''t you aunt Rebecca''s personal chauffeur? And as far as I know, no one is supposed to use you apart from her so why did you go?" Noah curiously inquired.


    "What is going on Bryce? Tell me everything," Arthur snapped.


    "Before we get into that, why don''t we call the security and question him," Ava stated before looking at Sebastian.


    "I''ll call him over."


    After a few minutes, the security guard whom Sebastian had instructed to send another car and driver to fetch Ellie came over.


    "Did Sebastian ask you to send a car to fetch Ellie today?" When the guard nodded his head, Ava further inquired, "Okay, why did you send Bryce over? Was it spontaneous or someone instructed you to do so?"


    ¡­..

 Chapter 296 - Rebeccas evil intentions(II)

    "I was about to send someone else as I know no one apart from madam is allowed to use him. But when madam called me and instructed me to send him over, I did," The guard answered without hesitating.


    "Alright, you can leave," Ava instructed before looking at Rebecca.


    "Why are you looking at me? I asked him to send my chauffeur because it is safe," Rebecca justified herself without anyone confronting her.


    "Okay that makes sense, you were concerned for Ellie." Scrunching her brows, Ava added, "But that means Mr. Bryce lies to us. He told us you asked him to pick up Ellie all alone and take her elsewhere."


    Looking at the chauffeur, she remarked, "Why would lie to us like that?"


    "Forget about that, why would you want to take Ellie alone somewhere else?" Charlotte questioned him.


    "Wait, can you properly tell me what is going on?" Arthur inquired who was still confused over whatever that was happening.


    "Since Sebastian was stuck over here, he sent another car to fetch Ellie. Charlotte and I were with El, so we decided to accompany her for the ride. So I informed Calvin to directly meet me at the hotel and when I came down, I saw Bryce. I was surprised since he never drives anyone else apart from mom. When I asked him why he was here, he started shuttering and I became even more suspicious. But since he is one of our old workers, I decided to trust him but later when he said he was supposed to take only Ellie with him, I knew something was wrong," Ava briefly explained.


    "When we questioned him, he told us it was mother who told him to pick Ellie up and take her somewhere else and not to the hotel." Shrugging her shoulders, she sighed, "Well, I think Bryce is lying."


    Widening his eyes in shock, Bryce panicked, "No sir, I am not lying. Madam told me to fetch Ms. Ellie."


    Walking towards Rebecca, Arthur questioned her. "Rebecca, is that the truth?"


    "No, I never told him to take her elsewhere," she answered without any hesitation.


    "So since that is the case, don''t you think we should call the police and let them find out what Bryce was actually up to?" Ava suggested.


    Fishing out his cell phone from his pocket, Noah remarked, "I''ll call them."


    "No please wait," Bryce begged. Rushing towards Rebecca, he exclaimed, "Madam, why are you doing this to me? I have always followed your instructions and I was doing the same thing today. How can you abandon me like this?" He had been by Rebecca''s side for years now. He had always been loyal to her no matter what happened but now when he needed her support, she was turning away.


    When Rebecca did not say anything, Bryce quickly took out his phone. Rushing towards Arthur, he panickstrikenly explained, "If you don''t believe me, you can check the message madam sent me. It''s the location where I was supposed to take Ms. Ellie."


    Taking the phone from his hand, Arthur carefully examined it. Scrunching his brows, he turned towards Rebecca. "What is this? How are you planning to explain this to me?"


    Just then Rebecca''s phone started ringing. But this time, before she could reject the call, Arthur snatched the phone from her hand.


    When he saw the caller ID, he frowned, "This¡ª" Glaring at her, he yelled, "You are still in touch with him? Didn''t I make myself clear that day when we threw him out of the house? Why is he calling you again?"


    "Dad, who is it?" When Arthur did not answer, Sebastian approached him. Taking the phone from his hand, when he saw who it was, his expression turned dark.


    Gesturing everyone to stay quiet, he received the call before putting it on speaker.


    "Aunt, where is she? I am waiting for them for about an hour now, are they not coming?" Vincent, Sebastian''s cousin''s voice echoed through the speaker.


    Hanging up the call without saying anything, Sebastian tightened his grip around the phone. Looking at Rebecca, he snapped, "What is he talking about? Tell me what I am thinking is not true mother. Tell me you can''t resort to something so cheap and disgusting."


    Ellie, who was silently watching everything unfold, quickly approached Sebastian. Wrapped her arms around his, she tried to calm him down. "I think this is just a misunderstanding, why don''t we just calm down and talk it out."


    "Talk? Is there anything left to talk about?" Shrugging her shoulders, Ava sighed, "She can explain her actions if she wants to."


    "Ava¡ª"


    Cutting Calvin off, she snapped, "What? Now you will ask me to stay quiet just like Ellie is trying to shut Sebastian up?"


    Without waiting for his reply, she continued, "For how long are we going to keep up with her bulshit? How long do you expect me to stay silent and not voice out my opinion?"


    "For almost our entire lives, we have done things that our parents wanted us to do. From what we are supposed to wear, what we are supposed to do and how we are supposed to behave, everything was decided by them beforehand. We just had to wake up and do what was assigned for us." Letting out a mocking chuckle, she continued, "Did you both ever ask us what we wanted to do? What we wanted to become? Did you even care to find out about our dreams and aspirations? No, right?"


    "To some extent, I did things that I wanted to but Sebastian, he has always lived up to your expectations, especially yours mother. And now when he has achieved even more than what you wanted him to, what else do you want him?" Ava snapped.


    "For so many years, I have always frowned upon my brother for being the most obedient one because I always felt like I was bound to do what you guys are telling me just because Seb does it and I had no other choice. But now after so many years, he is finally doing something he loves, something that his heart wants and I am so proud of him for doing it."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 297 - Disappointment

    Looking at Rebecca, she scoffed, "How hard is to accept that mother? Why is it so hard for you to make peace with it? Sebastian loves Ellie and they are getting married, can''t you just be a bigger person for the first time and accept it? Why do you have to try and force things on Sebastian even now?"


    "What were you thinking when you called Vincent and told Bryce to fetch Ellie alone? Is winning over your own kids so important that you are willing to resort to something so disturbing?" Pausing for a while, she added, "Imagine someone doing something like this with your daughter? How would you feel at that time? Would you feel happy and satisfied?"


    "Ellie is leaving everything behind to become a part of our family, is this how we are going to treat her and make her feel?" Walking towards Ellie, Ava sighed, "I seriously don''t know what to tell you and how to apologize. I am very ashamed of whatever happened Ellie, I¡ª"


    Cutting her off, Ellie stated, "You don''t have to do this, it''s not your fault. In fact, if not for your instincts, God knows what would have happened. I should thank you for everything Ava."


    Grabbing Rebecca''s arm, Arthur frowned, "I am giving you one last chance to explain yourself. Tell me it isn''t how everyone is thinking Rebecca, I still feel you can''t do something so ridiculous." When she did not say anything, he yelled, "Say something."


    "Yes, I did it. I was the one who instructed Bryce to pick her up and take her somewhere else. I was the one who called Vincent over to help me." Bursting into tears, Rebecca yelled, "I don''t know what I was thinking, I just didn''t want them to get married. I just wanted to stop the wedding but I didn''t wanna hurt anyone."


    Letting go off her, Arthur gritted his teeth. "You are unbelievable."


    Balling his hand into a fist, Sebastian was about to snap when Ellie tightened her grip around his arm. Taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes for a couple of seconds to calm his emotions down which were on the verge of eruption.


    "I have always respected and honored you so matter how many times I felt you were being inconsiderate or wrong but this is my limit. What you have done today is beyond all my limits and patience and I will never forgive you for this. From today onwards, I have no relationship with you. I am ashamed to call you my mother," Sebastian stated.


    "Seb¡ª"


    Cutting Ellie off, he remarked, "Not today Ellie, I am not going to listen to anything."


    When Rebecca tried to approach him, Sebastian took a step backwards. "Consider your son dead starting today."


    "How can you say that?" Grabbing Arthur''s sleeves, Rebecca sobbed, "Tell him something, how can he say something like that."


    Jerking her hand away, Arthur declared, "What you have done today is beyond any kind of forgiveness. You have completely disappointed me today Rebecca, I didn''t marry or fall in love with the woman you have become."


    Sighing in disappointment, he added, "There is no need for you to attend the wedding as well, I don''t want anyone to disrupt my son''s big day. You can just stay at home all by yourself." With disappointment shadowed upon him, Arthur made his way towards his room.


    Slowly, everyone left, leaving Rebecca all alone to regret her actions.


    ¡­..


    Sebastian and Ellie''s apartment.


    Placing her hand on his shoulder, Ellie inquired, "Are you okay?"


    Without saying anything, he wrapped his arms around her waist and buried his face on her abdomen.


    Gently caressing his hair, she tried to console him. "Don''t worry, everything is going to be okay."


    "How could she even think about hurting you? How did my mother turn out to be so heartless? It was fine until she refused to accept our relationship but even thinking about doing something like that¡ª'''' Stopping midway, he sighed. It was hard for him to make his peace with the fact that his own mother tried to harm Ellie.


    Not knowing what to say and how to console him, she decided to stay silent and just be there with him. She could understand how he felt and her heart ached for him.


    ¡­..


    A day before the wedding.


    Seattle.


    Ellie''s parents'' place.


    "Honey, you should sleep early today and it applies to you girls as well. It''s a big day tomorrow and we don''t want you girls to have swollen eyes," Judith remarked.


    "Yes mom, we were about to get some sleep," Ellie answered.


    "Alright, make sure to sleep well." Glancing at the watch, she sighed, "I need to go and accompany your father."


    "Yes, make sure uncle doesn''t flood the house," Melissa chuckled.


    Helplessly shaking her head, Judith exclaimed, "I can''t guarantee that. His dearest daughter is getting married, of course he is gonna flood us tonight."


    "Should I talk to him?"


    "El, I don''t think that is a good idea. You both will start crying together again," Charlotte sighed. It had been two days since they arrived in Seattle for the wedding and they had been staying at Ellie''s place since then.


    "I''ll stay with your dad, don''t worry about him and take some rest." After wishing everyone goodnight, Judith left.


    "I can''t believe my brother is getting married tomorrow." slumping on the bed, ava sighed, "Why does this still feel like a dream?"


    "Exactly, I always thought Seb would be the last one to get married amongst the guys but he just outsmarted Calvin, Owen and also Brandon," Melissa chuckled.


    Nodding her head in agreement, Charlotte remarked, "When I met Sebastian for the first time, I thought the same too. I mean, though he is handsome, he looks like an arranged marriage material."


    "That is so true, I always thought that Seb would work his ass off until he is forty and then just marry some high class woman just for the sake of getting married. I never thought my brother had this lover boy trait in him," Ava explained.


    ¡­..

 Chapter 298 - Cold feet

    Placing her hand on her chest, Melissa gasped, "Exactly, the way he planned the proposal. Oh my God, I was in tears when he asked for my help. It sounded so romantic and special. And the fact that he also executed it so romantically is exceptional."


    "Okay now stop talking about my handsome man. His thoughts will not let me sleep for the entire night if we continue this conversation," Ellie exclaimed.


    ...


    Hotel Bluemount.


    Garden.


    "Dad, you called me?" When Arthur nodded his head, Sebastian further inquired, "What happened? Is everything okay?"


    "Yes, everything is fine. I just wanted to talk to you about something." Patting the empty space beside him, Arthur added, "Have a seat."


    When Sebastian sat down, he smiled, "So, are you nervous for tomorrow?"


    "Maybe a little." Helplessly shaking his head, Sebastian sighed, "Actually, I am very nervous. Not because I am scared that I am getting married. I love Ellie and this is all that I have ever wanted. I also know that this is just the beginning of the new journey of our life and I am really looking forward to it."


    "But what if I don''t turn out to be a good husband? What if I mess things up later in the future? Ellie is leaving everything just to be with me, I don''t want to disappoint her," he further added.


    Shrugging his shoulders, Arthur explained, "Well, you''re not the first man who is feeling that way. Everyone feels the same way at some point of his life. I won''t say that you shouldn''t feel that way because we all are humans. No matter how macho or strong we try to project ourselves, we are still humans with normal feelings. It''s completely normal for us to have our insecurities. But letting your insecurities fear you isn''t right either."


    "Relationsh.i.p.s aren''t always perfect son, nothing is perfect. Whether it''s in life or relationsh.i.p.s, you will always face ups and downs. Well, those ups and downs might seem rough and hard to manage but you will learn a lot from them. Only happy or beautiful moments don''t make a relationship perfect, ups and downs play an important role too."


    "So when you face ups and downs in your marriage, don''t feel that you have failed. Learn from your mistakes and try to make things work."


    Patting Sebastian''s shoulder, he added, "You are a very sensible man Sebastian, this is why I never had to run around and drain my energy to teach you various things. Maybe this sensible behavior of yours unknowingly made me expect many things from you."


    Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "I know it wasn''t right of us to force things on you and your sister, especially you. Honestly, I realized this a long time back. This is why I decided to let you kids do what you wanted. I mean, I know I realized it a little too late but late is better than never, right?"


    When he nodded his head, Arthur added, "I still want to apologize to you for being harsh on you and¡ª"


    "Dad, you don''t have to do that. I agree your methods were a bit harsh but I wouldn''t be who I am if not for you and your teachings. I am the man I am now all because of you and I am thankful for that. The same applies to Ava as well and I am sure she will tell you the same thing," Sebastian stated.


    "I mean, imagine if I hadn''t joined our office. Maybe I would never get a chance to meet Ellie and we would never fall in love. How depressing that would have been." Helplessly shaking his head, he sighed, "I don''t even wanna think about it."


    Patting his shoulder, Arthur smiled, "I am glad we had this conversation." Glancing at his watch, he added, "It''s getting late, you should get some sleep now. It''s a big day tomorrow."


    "You should also get some rest."


    "Yes, I will go to my room now. And don''t worry, I will talk to Ellie''s parents tomorrow and apologize to them for whatever your mother tried to do," Arthur remarked.


    "There is no need for that, Ellie has instructed me not to tell her parents about the entire incident. She told me there is no need to publicize family matters outside, she doesn''t want to stretch the matter," Sebastian answered.


    "You have found yourself the right and perfect woman, I am glad you are with someone who is as sensible as you," Arthur remarked.


    "I am also very glad and thankful," he smiled.


    ...


    The Big day.


    "Okay dear relax, nothing is going to happen. Everything is normal," Judith exclaimed.


    "Exactly, just calm down and drink some water," Melissa added.


    "Should I get some ice packs?" Charlotte inquired.


    "That would be great honey." After she left, Judith instructed, "Why don''t you do the breathing exercise I taught you?"


    "I can''t, I feel so stuffed and bloated, I think I have to puke."


    "Seriously Harry? Shouldn''t Ellie be the one saying this? She is the bride, she should be getting the cold feet, not you." Helplessly shaking her head, Judith sighed, "I seriously don''t know what to do with you."


    "Hmm uncle, are you sure you can walk down the aisle today?" Melissa inquired while gently rubbing his back to make him feel better.


    Squatting right in front of him, Ellie grabbed his hand. "Dad, everything''s gonna be okay. We got this, okay?"


    Cupping her face, he sighed, "You look so beautiful. When did you become so big?" Looking at Judith, he added, "There was a time when she used to fit in my palms but now¡ª"


    ¡­..


    Wedding venue.


    "Who is getting cold feet?" Sebastian frowned.


    "El¡ª"


    Cutting Noah off, Arthur sighed, "It''s completely normal for brides to become nervous right before the wedding, they also get this sensation of running away and not getting married." Patting Sebastian''s shoulder, he added, "Don''t worry son, she will be okay."


    ¡­.

 Chapter 299 - The Wedding(Finale)

    "Though that is normal amongst the brides, Ellie isn''t the one getting a cold feet." When both of them gave him a weird look, Noah explained, "It''s Ellie''s dad who is getting one."


    "What?" Sebastian and Arthur exclaimed in unison.


    Bursting into a hearty laughter, Arthur yelled, "You are kidding right?"


    Looking at the crowd who were now staring at them because of the sudden laughter and yelling, Noah nervously chuckled, "Uncle, can you be a little soft? People are staring at us and it''s awkward."


    "Seriously dad, don''t laugh like that. How will Ellie feel if she finds out you are making fun of her dad like this?" Sebastian sighed.


    "Okay, I won''t laugh even though it''s super funny and I can barely control myself."


    Just then Samuel arrived along with Jeremy, Melissa''s father. "Arthur, we just heard about Harry getting a cold feet."


    The three men then start laughing hysterically making Sebastian and Noah sigh in desperation.


    ...


    Thirty minutes later.


    "You are ready?" When Ellie nodded her head, Harry took a deep breath to calm himself down. After a good thirty minutes of coaxing from everyone, he had finally calmed himself down and was ready to walk his daughter down the aisle.


    "When you were born, I knew this day would come and I was really excited for it. But now when it''s finally here, I am not very excited but sad. This moment is every fathers dream but it''s also the most saddest moment." Tightening his grip around her hand, he added, "I know I have already told you think a hundred times but I will tell you this again, your mom and dad will always be there for you no matter what happens. You can always count on us even for the tiniest lamest thing. You are and will forever be the only thing we love the most and are proud of."


    "Though I know you will forever stay happy with Sebastian but even if things don''t work out in the future, never hesitate to come looking for us. I know I shouldn''t talk about things like this but I am just stating all the facts," he exclaimed.


    Giving him a hug, Ellie smiled, "I love you."


    Gently patting her back, he sighed, "Alright, now let''s go and get you married."


    ¡­..


    Wedding Venue.


    Impatiently standing near the aisle, Sebastian started panicking. "Are you sure everything is normal? Should I go and check?"


    "Dude, just stay still. Everything is normal and under control now, in fact, they might be here any minute now. So please, calm your tits and stand still," Noah stated.


    Just then, ''Can''t help falling in love'' by Elvis Persley started playing in the background.


    After a few seconds, Harry and Ellie started walking down the aisle hand in hand.


    Sebastian''s breathing hitched when he saw the love of his life in a white gown. She looked angelic and beautiful. She was definitely the most beautiful bride he had ever seen and the fact that she was about to be his better half for the rest of his life, made the moment even more beautiful.


    He could feel his eyes getting teared up and he could do nothing to control it. The moment was too overwhelming and felt like a dream.


    He quickly looked away and wiped his tears away when she stood right in front of him.


    "Don''t cry," she whispered.


    Grabbing both her hands, he exclaimed, "You look beautiful." Before kissing her hands.


    As the ceremony started, it was time to say their vows.


    "I don''t know what to say because no words can describe how much you mean to me and how much I love you." Taking a deep breath, Sebastian continued, "There was a time in life when I thought I was living a normal and comfortable life and things could never get better. But then you slipped into my life and changed everything. I mean, who would have thought that I would end up falling in love with an incredible woman like you?"


    "You have taught me many things Ellie, you have taught me to live and be happy. You made me feel the roller coaster of emotions which I didn''t even know existed, you taught me how to love. I know this is just the beginning of our new journey together but I promise you with all my heart and soul, I will always love and cherish you. I will always treasure you and our relationship. I love you."


    Tightening her grip around his hand, Ellie smiled, "I love you too."


    "When I was young, I always wanted a perfect love story which obviously included a handsome hero who would be my knight in shining armour. As I grew up, I realized things don''t work that way in reality and nothing is perfect. But then you came along," Ellie explained.


    "I left home and moved to L.A with a clear intention of getting a decent job but I ended up getting much more than that. I found the love of my life. A man I can trust, love and believe in with all my heart. You are the most beautiful thing that has ever happened in my life Sebastian and I am so grateful to God for bringing you into my life. I just can''t wait to start this whole new journey with you. Not because I am excited to start something new but because I know we will make it to the very end, until death draws us apart. My love for you keeps growing day by day and there is no end to it. I love you with all my heart and I will until my last breath," she stated.


    Kissing her forehead, he whispered, "Thank you for coming into my life and always being there for me. Thank you for trapping me in your heart forever."


    ......¡­THE END.........


    GREETINGS.


    I know you all have been waiting for a really long time but now it has finally come to an end.


    I can understand that the delay must have been quite frustrating for everyone but the situation had called for it and I extremely apologize.


    As I write the last chapter of this book, I can''t tell you how overwhelmed I am feeling. I started the book out of wedlock and it turned out to be one of my favourites.


    I hope you all my dear readers liked the book and it made you smile at some point of time :)


    Though ''Trapped in Her Heart'' has ended and it''s surely overwhelming but this is just the beginning.


    I will be marking the book ''COMPLETED'' but don''t remove it from the library yet because I will be adding one or two bonus chapters later.


    A few information regarding the remaining books:


    i) I will complete all the books very soon and no I haven''t forgotten about them.


    ii) I will complete Unexpected Encounter first, followed by The Devils love and then One last time.


    Please don''t think that I will abandon the books or my dear readers. All I can say is, the situation I was stuck in demanded me to stop writing for a while.


    iii) Information about the new books will be dropped later. (Only after I finish my existing books)


    iv) For the readers of ''The Strings of love'', the book will resume after I finish my existing books.


    v) I will also start a fantasy book after I am done with all the three existing books.


    *IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT*


    A giveaway of 2000 coins will be organized for 20 lucky readers(100 coins each) when the fantasy book starts so stay tuned for that as well.


    I hope everyone is well and going good. Please stay positive but don''t test positive ?.


    I will see you guys soon.


    Love you all ?


    Sofia.


    ¡­...

 Chapter 300 - Extra(I)

    One year later.


    "Here you go." Opening the back door to the yard, Ellie squatted down. "No playing with mud, okay?"


    Paying no heed to what she had just instructed them, Bojo and Boji ran outside.


    "Wait¡ª"


    "Don''t worry madam, I will take care of them."


    "Thank you so much Annie, please bring them in before it starts raining."


    "Sure madam, don''t worry about that," Annie, their new helper assured her before stepping out in the backyard to watch the dogs.


    A couple of months after getting married, Ellie and Sebastian shifted to a new place which was in the same area as Owen and June. To make things even more better, Noah and Melissa also shifted right next door.


    ....


    Upstairs.


    Ellie and Sebastian''s room.


    "From the right¡­..no no go left¡­...yes right there..."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Ellie sighed when she saw her husband engrossed in the new habit he had taken up, GAMING.


    Crossing her hand in the front, she frowned, "Seb, we need to talk."


    "One second babe, we are about to win," he answered without taking his eyes off the big screen.


    "Seb, it''s important." Without waiting for his reply, she added, "I need space."


    "Yeah, it''s right there, just¡ª" Stopping midway, he took off his headphones. "Wait, what did you say?"


    "I said I need space¡ª"


    Keeping his controller down, Sebastian quickly got up. "What are you talking about babe? We have lots and lots of space here."


    "You are not understanding what I am talking about."


    "Huh?" Grabbing her hand, he made her sit on the bed. Squatting right in front of her, he panicked, "Let''s talk it out, okay?"


    "Talking is not gonna help, everything is over now."


    "Don''t say that babe, of course there is a way. If there is no way, we will look for one." Without waiting for her reply, he inquired, "Is it because I am gaming too much these days?"


    "N¡ª"


    "I''ll stop it¡ªnot completely stop but I''ll minimize it, we will fix a schedule and I will game only at that time¡ª"


    Placing her hand on his shoulder, Ellie interrupted him. "Seb, I don''t have any problem with you gaming."


    "Then what is wrong?" When she did not say anything, Sebastian panicked, "You are scaring me now."


    "We need more space." Looking around, she frowned, "You tell me, how is a crib going to fit here? And this bed is also small, we will definitely need a bigger one otherwise you will have to sleep on the floor after the baby comes."


    "Okay, I will sleep on the floor. I don''t have a problem with that but where did space come from?"


    Raising her brows, she questioned him, "So you are willing to sleep on the floor and leave the bed for me and the baby?"


    "Yes, of course. I will happily leave the bed for you and the baby," he confidently stated.


    Fl.i.c.k.i.n.g his forehead, she sighed, "You are an intelligent but dumb man."


    "Huh?"


    "Why don''t you go down and get me some water?"


    "Okay, I''ll be right back." He then rushed out of the room only to dash inside after a few seconds, with a horrified look on his face. "W¡ªWhat did you just say? B-Baby?"


    "Ah! Thank God," she exclaimed. Smacking his arm, she grunted, "You acted so dumb."


    "We are having a baby?"


    "Of course we are having a baby, I am indirectly trying to tell you that but¡ª"


    "Why didn''t you tell me directly?"


    "How is that fun?"


    "You are crazy. Come here¡ª" Pulling her into his embrace, he exclaimed, "I am going to become a dad."


    "And I am going to be a mom."


    Pulling away, he frowned, "But I don''t know how to be a dad. What if¡ªwhat if I mess up? What if I don''t be a good dad?" Without waiting for her reply, he added, "Suppose if the child does something wrong and I have to be like ''Don''t argue with me young lady, you are grounded''¡ª" Looking at Ellie, he asked, "Did I say that right? Did it sound authoritative and dad-like?"


    Bursting into laughter, Ellie pulled his cheeks. "Why are you so cute? What am I gonna do with you?"


    "Babe, I am worried. Excited and worried."


    "Okay, why don;t you talk to Noah and take some tips from him? Anyway, that crazy guy has already read all the pregnancy books after Mel got pregnant," she suggested.


    Noah and Melissa were already five months pregnant now. After getting pregnant, Noah read all the information available on the internet about pregnancy and tons of books which included a couple of ''How to be a cool dad?''.


    "Great idea, I''ll go call him. No wait, first let me book an appointment for you¡ª"


    "I already did that, we just need to inform our parents and mine too," she stated.


    "Okay, I''ll quickly call dad and let him know. After that we will video call our mom and dad from Seattle."


    Grabbing his hand, Ellie said, "Why don''t we video them together?"


    "That is even great, I''ll call dad and ask he is busy¡ª"


    "No, I mean¡ªall the four parents." When Sebastian did not say anything, she sighed. Tightening her grip around his hand, she added, "Seb, it''s been a year already. How long¡ª"


    "Babe, I think we already had this discussion earier." Cupping her face, he stated, "I always listen to you and I will for the rests of our lives but not for this. My decision is still the same and if you can''t persuade me then no one can."


    "I didn''t mean to upset you or something, I just thought since it''s a good news, we should share it with everyone."


    "Don''t worry about that, dad will surely scream and tell the entire L.A about it," he chuckled.


    After the incident which happened right before their wedding, Sebastian and Rebecca were no more in talking terms.


    Though Rebecca tried to contact him several times and also apologized for what she had done, Sebastian refused to talk to her.


    ....

 Chapter 301 - Extra(II)

    Ellie had tried to persuade him several times to let go off the past and start a fresh healthy relatipnship with his mum but the latter never llistened to her.


    Though she knew Sebastian was still hurt and didn''t like talking about Rebecca, she kept looking for ways to persuade him. Ellie wanted him to share a healthy relationship with his mom irrespective to whatever had happened.


    ¡­..


    8 months later.


    Hospital.


    "She is beautiful, look at her eyes¡ª" Looking at Ellie, Sebastian sighed, "I never get over with this."


    Two days ago, Ellie have birth to a healthy daughter who was named after Sebastian''s grandmother, Samantha Stewart.


    "She is adorable, let me hold her¡ª"


    Scrunching his brows, Sebastian moved away. "No, stay away from my daughter."


    "Hey, I am her aunt, she is mine too," Ava retorted.


    "Well, I don''t remember you donating any s.p.e.r.m for her."


    "Sebastian, what are you saying¡ª" Ellie chuckled.


    "We are very sorry, Desmond refused to leave Mel so we had to wait for him to fall asleep," Noah explained.


    "It''s good that you are late, Seb is not letting anyone touch Samantha anyway," Ava complained.


    Giving Ellie a hug, Melissa sighed, "Girl, giving birth may seem like a hard part but that is just a teaser, it gets harder when you start rasing the baby so you better be prepared."


    "Samantha won''t trouble us, she is a good girl," Sebastian remarked.


    "It''s¡ª" Noah stopped midway when he saw someone standing by the door. "I think I will get some coffee. Mel, Ava, why don''t you both come with me?"


    "Why? I don''t want any coffee," Ava retorted.


    Grsturing her to look at the door, Noah added, "I think you need one."


    Following his gaze when Ava saw her mother standing near door, she quickly agreed and left along with Noah and Melissa.


    Ignoring his mother''s presence, Sebastian kept Samantha on the crib and started going through Ellie''s medical file.


    "Seb, can you give me some water?"


    Looking at the empty bottle, he answered, "I''ll go get some water."


    After he left, Ellie smiled at Rebecca who was still standing by the door and invited her in. "Mom, please come in."


    Hesitating for while, Rebecca gave her a weak smile and entered the room.


    Keeping the bag she was holding on the bed, Rebecca said, "I bought these for the baby." Just then, little Samantha started crying.


    "Mom, can you please bring her to me?"


    "I¡ªI can touch her?"


    "Why not? She is your granddaughter too," Ellie stated.


    Hesitating for a while, Rebecca slowly made her way towards the crib and gently lifted the baby in her hands. Tears of joy started flooding down her cheeks when the little one cuddled in her arms.


    Over the past year and after the incident, Rebecca had changed a lot. She was no more the arrogant, proud and bossy woman anymore. The regret over whatever she had done and how she had treated her own kids and daughter-in-law had changed her.


    When Sebastian entered the room, he stood rooted near the door, silently watching his mother and daughter.


    When Ellie saw him, she slowly got down from the bed and approached him. "How long are you going to punish her and yourself? It''s been a year already Seb and she has really changed. Just like the way you love Samantha, she loves you too."


    Wrapping her hands around his arm, she added, "Let''s give Samantha her entire family, let''s welcome her with all smiles and lots of love from everyone, without any hard feelings."


    Giving her a hug, he sighed before walking towards Rebecca.


    "Ellie, she looks just like you but her nose¡ª" Rebecca stopped midway when she saw Sebastian standing right next to her.


    "But she has my nose and don''t you think her eyes are also like mine?" he inquired before wrapping his around her shoulder. "We named her Samantha, after grandmom."


    "Your dad is gonna be so happy," Rebecca sobbed before burying her face on his shoulder. "I am sorry, I have wronged you so many times and Ellie too."


    Gently rubbing the sides of her arm, Sebastian sighed, "It''s okay, don''t cry. Look, you are scaring my daughter."


    "Here, hold her¡ª" After giving Samantha in his arms, Rebecca approached Ellie and apololized to her.


    "You don''t have to say anything, I am just glad everything is okay now."


    Just then, Ava, Noah and Melissa entered the room.


    "Mom, don''t you think she looks more like me than Ellie?" Sebastian inquired.


    "I think she looks Ellie more and I just don''t want her to look like her mom, I want her to be like her mom too." Gently c.a.r.e.s.sing Ellie''s head, Rebecca smiled, "Beautiful, strong and independent."


    ...


    SPECIAL AUTHORS NOTE:-


    Here are the two additional chapters as promised. ^_^


    These are the final two chapters of ''Trapped in Her Heart'' which marks the official end of the book.


    It felt great to write about all the characters again after a reall long time. I hope you guys will enjoy it too.


    I would like to take a moment and thank you guys again for supporting the book and giving it so much love and support. :)


    I would also to inform you guys about my new book ''The Immortal Fates '' which is a part of THE SPIRITY AWARDS 2021. Your support and encouragement is much needed.


    Don''t forget to add the book in your library and also drop a review if you like it :)


    You can also add ''The Strings of Love'' in your library if you want to read a light romance.


    Follow me in instagram for more updates: author_sofia05


    Thank you :)


    Love you all ?


    ¡­.


    [Since I am 30words short in meeting the word count, I''ll write something meaningless which can we ignored.


    One sheep, two sheep, three sheep, four sheep, five sheep, six sheep, seven sheep, eight sheep, nine sheep, ten sheep, eleven sheep, twelve sheep, thirteen sheep, fourteen sheep, fifteen sheep, sixteen sheep, seveteen sheep.]


    ¡­.