《A Step Closer to Love》


 I

    ¡°Ara help me set up the table¡± Ava screamed from down the stairs.


    She moves back to the kit hen and pushes towards her boiling pot of soup. She stirs vigorously going it doesn¡¯t cuddle to the sides of the pot. She sighs when she noticed her daughter had not paid attention to her at all.


    She puts off the stove in front of her and wipes her hand on her apron. She can¡¯t believe that she was left to do all the work by herself. Her husband would soon be back from work and it was their turn to host dinner with their neighbors.


    Once a week they had dinner together and rotated who hosted it. This week was her turn. She nced at the wall clock on the kitchen wall. Her husband should be back in ten minutes and in thirty minutes her neighbors should being in for dinner.


    Her elder daughter was nowhere to be found. She was probably surging through the mall with full passion unable to buy anything. Her daughter needed to return before the Sterlings came over. She heard the front door squeak open. She pushed her head through the kitchen door to see her daughter enter with a huge pout on her face.


    ¡°Seraphina help me set the table,¡± Ava said.


    Seraphina was expectinscoldingding for being homete but her mom was overwhelmed and just needed to get the job done before thru sat down to dinner. Seraphina knew that she was going to get an earful from her momter that night.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Seraphina moves and begins to set that table. She knew that the Sterlings wereing for dinner which made her mom go into a crazy frenzy to impress the neighbors. Once every two weeks Ava outdid herself in her cookingpetition.


    ¡°Mom, where is Arabe?¡± Seraphina asked her mom.


    ¡°Her nose is probably stuck in a book somewhere upstairs. I have been calling her but it seems she did not hear me¡± Ava responded handing her daughter a bowl to ce at the table center.


    Seraphina moved swiftly back and forth from the kitchen to the dining table. She was exhausted from touring the mall all afternoon with her friends but she dare notin or else she would be grounded.


    ¡°Ara¡± Ava screamed once again.


    She needed someone to run to the nearby store for some cheese and since Sera was already helping her out there was no way she could send her to the store. Arabe needed to get her nose out of the book and help her mother win the championship in the neighborhood.


    ¡°Sera see what Ara is doing. Take give her this to run to the store for a block of parmesan cheese now¡± Ava said pulling out some money from the pocket of her apron.


    Seraphina collected the money from her mom and ran upstairs to her sister¡¯s room. She pushed the door open and saw her sister sitting there a huge book in hand and her sses slipping over her face.


    Arabe was not aware of her sister¡¯s presence now in her room. Seraphina put down the money on her sister¡¯s book. Arabe looked up the smile turning into a frown.


    Arabe pushed her sses back up and blinked multiple times at her sister.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± she asked looking down at the money.


    She was aware that her mom was probably cooking up a storm downstairs and would probably need her attention but the book she got from the library had too many important hooking points that she could not help but get lost in it.


    ¡°Mom said you should get a block of cheese,¡± Seraphina said gesturing to the money on the book.


    ¡°Do I have to?¡± Arabe asked annoyancecing her voice.


    Arabe hated every other Friday night because their mom made it a nightmare for them. She had to run around trying to help her mother prepare an award-winning dinner and sit through the adult boring conversation while the nk and aloof Kieran Sterling who was ten years older than give her a nk stare.


    ¡°You know the answer,¡± Seraphina said in a sing-song voice as she turned to leave. Arabe put a bookmark between the pages of where she was just reading. She stood up from the window side couch she had been sitting on and dusted her skirt. She stretched to ease herself of the leg cramps she was feeling.


    She followed her sister and went downstairs. As she got to the base of the staircase her dad pushed open the door. She rushed over to him and threw herself in his hands.


    ¡°Hello my pumpkin pie,¡± Richard said picking her up and spinning her around.


    ¡°Hello Dada,¡± she said.


    Arabe was ten years old and was closer to her dad because he loved the way she read. He frequently bought her books and allowed her to visit the library as often as she could.


    ¡°Mom is cooking up a storm again, ¡°Arabe said in a fake whisper to the ears of her dad. She said it loud enough so that everyone could hear.


    ¡°She is going to withe contest one of these days¡± Richard replied with a snicker at the end of his statement.


    Everyone knew what a maniac Ava could be in the face of being the best.


    ¡°Ara, I hope you are back from buying the cheese?¡± Ava screamed her question as she heard the chatter between her daughter and husband. They could chatter all they wanted when the dinner was a sess.


    ¡°I better get going¡± Arabe whispered to her father¡¯s ear before she sprinted out the door.


    ¡°Hello darling,¡± Richard said as he entered the kitchen.


    ¡°Wee Dad¡± Seraphina sighed as she moved to the dining area with her hands filled with cutlery.


    ¡°Let me help you my sugar,¡± Richard said collecting the spoons from Seraphina.


    ¡°No, you can¡¯t, go have a shower or freshen up now,¡± Ava said with a re at her husband and older dinner.


    Richard returned the spoons to his daughter and squeezed her shoulder gently. No one wanted to dare the mother of the house when she was in full crazy mode. He turned and walked upstairs to freshen up.

 II

    As they all sat down for dinner at the Bishop¡¯s residence everyone wasplimenting how wonderful Ava¡¯s cooking was. In fact, the smile on her face was enough for her to be filled without eating anything more on her te.


    ¡°We have great news,¡± Ethan Sterling said. Ethan was the father of the Sterling family and he was quite reserved and spoke only when necessary.


    ¡°Must be great news¡± Seraphina murmured.


    Like her younger sister, she was also uninterested in the going on at the table. She always wondered why she had to eat with the old people and that included Kieran who was five years older than her.


    ¡°Drop the book, Ara,¡± Ava said with a stern voice.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    Arabe had been indifferent to the happenings at the table and had her nose buried in the book she brought from the library. She slowly put her bookmark into the pages and dropped the book on the floor beside her. She would rather read those books than listen to the boring adult conversation.


    If the Sterlings had a child their age maybe dinner would have been fun as they would have someone to chat with but the only son of the Sterling family was Kieran and he was twenty years. A whole ten years older than her. There mo a conversation they would have that could benefit both parties.


    Kieran like his father barely spoke. Seraphina had said it was because he was not around those his age. She said that when he was still in high school he was part of the popr jocks and that he spoke with them.


    ¡°Your good news,¡± Ava said excitedly her eyes shining.


    ¡°Kieran would finally be going to college this year,¡± Everly said smiling. She was the mother to Kieran.


    She had wanted her son to go to college immediately after he graduated high school but he had taken two years off to purchase his dream in photography. He had never considered it what he wanted to do but he decided to give a trial and work on it before going back to school to study business administration.


    ¡°Oh my¡± Ava said her hands going over her mouth.


    The adults were d that Kieran was going after his photography dream but could not help but worry about him. They wanted him to go to college. The joy Ava felt for her friend was radiating through.


    She opened and closed her mouth multiple times like a gasping fish. She wanted to say something but couldn¡¯t find the right words for expressions.


    ¡°This calls for a celebration,¡± Richard said. He too was genuinely happy for his wife¡¯s friends.


    ¡°Has he gotten into any schools?¡± Richard added.


    ¡°We had no idea he was applying but he applied to four Ivy¡¯s and got epted into all¡± Everly bragged.


    It was a good thing to brag about and feel proud of. After all her git into Ivy¡¯s.


    ¡°Congrattions,¡± Ava said happy for them.


    Being apetitive person maybe the only reason she felt happy for them was because none of her daughters were yet up to the task of getting into Ivy¡¯s. She was going to make her children get epted into Six Ivy¡¯s to beat her friend.


    ¡°Girls congratte your friend,¡± Richard said. He knew quite well that his girls and the next-door boy were not friends and did not get along. He knew the hated the weekly dinners and that his eldest daughter wanted to watch her favorite show while the other read her book all night.


    ¡°Congrattions Kieran¡± they chorused together with a fake smiles on their face.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Kieran said taking a sip of the water.


    After dinner, the adults stayed back to celebrate while the kids left. Seraphina went back to watch herte-night shows on the television in her parent¡¯s room. Arabe went back to read her book in her room and Kieran went to pack his bags for school because since he got in through early admissions he was going for an early quick start program and was leaving in two days.


    As Arabe opened up her book to read her mind wandered to the blue-eyed boy who always sat opposite her at dinner and she thought of how she would not see him again. It was not like she was going to miss him or anything but the fact that she was probably not going to see him again. The adults had some wine before they all retired to bed.


    Ava made her daughters escort her with Everly to see off Kieran at the airport. The girls uninterested watched as thenky blue-eyed boy went into the departure hall.


    The girls were taken for ice cream by Everly while Ava had to rush to get groceries for her household. Schools were resuming Monday which was the very from the summer break and bother girls were happy to be back to school but for entirely different reasons.


    Arabe was happy to be back with the school library while Seraphina was d to be back for the cheer practice and football games.


    ¡°Hello, Ava,¡± Everly said putting the phone to her ear.


    ¡°Calm down Ava, I can¡¯t get a word of what you just said,¡± Everly said. Ava was on the other side of the line and her words were half and not making any sense.


    ¡°Seraphina takes to talk to your mom, I¡¯m driving,¡± Everly said handing the phone over to the girl who was seatedposed licking her ice cream cone beside her.


    Arabe was at the back sitting licking her ice cream while her face was embedded in another book. She had finished the previous one and was now intensely immersed in this new one.


    ¡°Hello Mom,¡± Seraphina said on the call. She put the phone on loudspeaker so that Everly could hear too.


    ¡°Sera, is that you?¡± Ava managed to say. Her chest constricted as she spoke.


    While she was grocery shopping she received a call from the emergency ward that her husband was brought in from a traffic ident and that he was on the brink of death.


    Leaving her cart on the shoppingplex aisle she ran to the hospital to see himying lifelessly. She spent some time with the nurse before the doctor cameter to pronounce him dead.


    Internally Ava died multiple times. She kissed and bid her husband goodbye this morning. She was supposed to meet up with him after grocery shopping which was why she sent the girls with Everly.


    After grocery shopping, she was to buy school supplies and then have a date night with her husband. One they would not be able to have now ever again.


    ¡°Come to the general hospital,¡± Ava said in one breath. Sheposed herself to say the sentence. She has to bear it. She needed to be strong but she did not want to be. She wanted her husband alive and well. She did not want to raise those girls all by herself.


    ¡°Mom, are you okay?¡± Seraphina asked her mother rmed when she heard the word hospital.


    ¡°Just tell Everly to bring you here,¡± Ava said again.


    ¡°Mrs. Sterling¡­¡± Seraphina started.


    ¡°I heard her Sera and I¡¯m going over right now,¡± Everly said stepping on the elerator and driving towards the hospital silently praying that all was good and well.


    The gut feeling in her stomach told her very well that all was not well and the most scary thing was that her gut feeling was almost always correct.


    She wished it was one of those times when it was wrong.

 III

    Everly¡¯s journey to the hospital was shorter than usual as she prayed that everything was all good with her friend. Everly and Ava had been friends since high school. When they both went to college they lost touch and contact.


    One day Ava moves in next door and met her high school friend. They rekindled the friendship and their family join in too. Everly had Kieran while she was in her first year of college which was what made the age gap in their children pronounced.


    They entered the emergency room with urgency. They saw Ava sitting in one of the chairs. Arabe rushed to her mom book still in hand. Both girls had disposed of their ice cream after hearing the distressing news from their mom.


    ¡°Mom,¡± Arabe said holding her hands.


    Ava¡¯s head was bowed and tears rolled down her cheeks. She did not know the best way to tell the girls that she was now a widow and that they were now fatherless.


    A young man who looked like he was just in his twenties staggered towards them and went down on his knees. Both girls and Everly watched the man as he knelt. Ava was kind-hearted but it was the first time that Everly saw her not taking pity on the young man.


    Under normal circumstances, Ava would not allow the young man to kneel as she would make him stand up andfort him warmly.


    ¡°It¡¯s my mistake,¡± the young man said silently.


    Ava looked up at the man. If it was possible for a fire to breathe out her eyelids then she would have sent fire to consume him immediately. Why was he drunk driving in the daytime? Why did he not call a driver to drive him? Why did he have to kill her husband of all people? All those questions swirled in her mind.


    ¡°I am sorry,¡± the man said again. Tears went down his face.


    ¡°You should be,¡± Ava said her voice shaky.


    ¡°Why were you driving drunk at noon? You¡¯ve taken away my husband bring him back¡± she added crying. She knelt beside him and held his cor.


    ¡°Why why why?¡± she asked continuously as the years fell uncontrobly down her face. She hated the situation she was in.


    The gravity of the situation settled in the mind of Everly¡¯s mind. She could not believe what she was currently hearing. It was very unbelievable.


    ¡°Ava, what do you mean?¡± Everly asked crouching down to her friends level.


    ¡°This monster ran down my husband as he was trying to cross the street,¡± Ava said pointing to the man in front of her. Her sentence was not coordinated but Everly, Seraphina, and Arabe could get the message very clearly.


    ¡°Impossible¡± Seraphina screamed.


    Arabe felt tears going down her face. It was hot and she looked down at the man in front of her.


    ¡°What did my dada do so wrong?¡± Arabe asked in a gentle voice looking at the man.


    ¡°I am so sorry,¡± the man said again and again.


    Arabe ran out of the emergency from toward the hospital road. She sat there tears in her eyes and with a tight chest.


    Her father was gone and she never got to say goodbye


    The Bishop family felt like someone removed the sure boat they were on and now they were sinking deeper than they could imagine. It could only take a huge float boat to save them now.


    It took them all they could to put together the burial ceremony. The family of the driver had made the family lose their precious family and hade around multiple times to ask for forgiveness and beg on behalf of the son.


    Ava had promised herself that she was never going to forgive him. She knew that she might try to forgive me but the fact that he was let off with a measly fine that can never bring her husband back to life because he was a first-time offender would haunt her for the rest of her life.


    ¡°What do you mean you are moving back home?¡± Everly said in a whisper.


    ¡°I have thought it through and I¡¯m moving back for the girls and myself. I am not possibly taking care of these girls by myself and most importantly I can not take care of myself¡± Ava.


    To Everly, it felt like Ava was overdoing it. She was rushing the decision because of the pan she felt at the moment. When she had time to think about it deeply then she would know she wants to stay.


    ¡°I can barely walk down the street without thinking that few blocks ahead my husband was killed right beside our house¡± Ava adds.


    ¡°I want you to still take some time over it to think it through. You don¡¯t want to add shake the girls up for no reason¡± Everly said.


    Ava was d to have Everly at this period. Everly handled everything like a pro. Everly had been with her on the nights of uncontroble years that turned tote night fevers.


    ¡°I have made up my mind. I would let the girls know tonight¡± Ava said.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Are we moving to Japan?¡± Seraphina asked standing at the door frame.


    Until the burial ceremony ten days ago both girls believed that their dad was still going to stand up and say it was all a prank. After the burial both girls them can to terms that their dad was gone and won¡¯t being back anytime soon.


    They both refused meals as cried all day. The break the school had given them to heal from their dads death was drawing to a close but both girls were not near ready to go back to school. These were part of the reasons that Ava decided to move.


    She was mentally unrted to take care of her girls and they were slipping further into depression. Seraphina even said a few sentences per day but Arabe who was closer to her dad barely uttered a single word.


    ¡°It¡¯s going to be all fine¡± Ava said assuring her daughter. She was not sure it was going to be all fine. She just wanted hope and to give hope to her.


    ¡°Move to Japan?¡± Seraphina asked again.


    ¡°Yes Darling. In a few days we would be going¡± Ava answered.


    She was not fully sure but seeing that her daughter was in worse shape than she imagined. She had barely changed her clothes not has a her taken as bath in days she made up her mind on the spot.


    She was changing environment for her kids. Everly who saw Seraphina for the first time in ten days also mentally agreed with her friends decision. Maybe a change of environment would do them all good at the end of the day.


    ¡°I am sure your mom was the best for you¡± Everly said squeezing her friends hand. She was going to keep in touch to ensure that her friend was golf enough and fine wherever she was.


    True to Ava¡¯s words she moved her girls and herself back to her hometown to live with her parents.


    They were going to heal there.

 IV

    FOURTEEN YEARS LATER.


    ¡°Hana have you gotten all you need for your trip next week?¡± Ava asked her daughter.


    Ava had moved back to Japan with her kids. While they were in Japan both girls got new name. Arabe became Hana and Seraphina became Yuna.


    ¡°Haha(Mother in Japanese), you have asked me a billion times and I have responded a billion times that I have everything ready and my bag is ready for my trip next week¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°I just want you to be extra ready. You have never been away from home before¡± Ava said.


    When Ava moved back with her girls from Crescent Bay City she held on to them with her dear life and never allowed her out of her site.


    ¡°And I would be with Aunty Everly all the time¡± Arabe responded.


    After her university Arabe began applying for jobs all over the country in the bid to escape from her moms constant prying gaze. She loved her mom but every time she tried to do something her mom was constantly breathing down her neck.


    After she lost her husband she became overbearing and constantly on every matter. Seraphina had gotten into the Japanese entertainment sector and was doing well. Since Arabe was in the book publishing business world she applied for jobs far away from her mom she wanted freedom.


    Arabe got a job at a start up firm in Crescent Bay, it turned out to be a coincidence that she was returning to the city she spent half of her child hood. It took all of the families to convince her mother that her going away doesn¡¯t mean she is dying. Her mother reluctantly agreed to allow her move back for work only because she agreed to stay with her friend Everly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare sass my youngdy¡± Ava said when she heard the sarcastic tone of her daughter.


    ¡°Haha let her be¡± Seraphina saiding into the room where both Ava and Arabe were seated on the bed. She overhead their conversation and decided to intervene to save her sister.


    ¡°I should let her be? I wonder what is wrong with all the start up business here in Japan that she could not chose from. She has to travel half way across the world to give her mother a heart attack¡± Ava said.


    ¡°She promised she would be home for all the major holidays¡± Seraphina said rolling her eyes at her mother.


    ¡°Why have daughters they would only cause you heart ache¡± Ava said with intense exaggeration.


    ¡°One has refused to marry and the other decided to abandon their family because of work¡± Ava added.


    ¡°Why do you have to bring up marriage now¡± Seraphina groaned. She was doing well at work and was not ready to settle down because she knew settling down would result in a decline in her career and she was not ready for that yet.


    ¡°Look at your cousin Ayumi get married over the weekend and she is just twenty two years of age¡± Ava said.


    ¡°Ayumi can get married all she wants I would get married when I want to¡± Seraphina said sitting and holding her mom.


    ¡°Is it when I no longer belong to this world?¡± Ava asked again.


    A brief silence fell on the room. Death was still a touchy subject for the three they were healed and better. But don¡¯t they say that scars don¡¯t heal fully?


    ¡°Hana, Yuna all I ask is for grandchild. I¡¯m sure your father would have wanted the same¡± Ava said holding her children closer.


    ¡°I would give them to you¡± Seraphina murmured as she buried her face in her moms neck.


    ¡°I love you mom,¡± Arabe said hugging her mom.


    ¡°Hana call us as soon as yound,¡± Ava said holding her daughter tightly.


    ¡°Haha, I would,¡± Arabe said holding her mother tightly.


    Up until this moment, she had thought that going away from her mother was the best decision she had made after deciding on what to study, but at the moment she felt that leaving her mom was not going to be okay at all. Her mother was overbearing but she knew she only did it in her best interest. Now Arabe did not care how many times her mother repeated a statement she only wanted to hold her tightly till she could not again.


    ¡°Mom, can I also say goodbye?¡± Seraphina asked.


    Ava reluctantly pulled from her daughter and gently rubbed her face and allowed Seraphina to say goodbye.


    ¡°Ane(elder sister in Japanese), I would miss you,¡± Arabe said holding on to her sister.


    Leaving home was scarier than she thought it would be.


    ¡°Ara be good and call often and be good to Aunty Everly,¡± Seraphina said.


    Since they lost their dad both girls grew closer to each other and became inseparable.


    ¡°Make sure youe back with a man for Mom¡¯s dreams to finallye through,¡± Seraphina said whispering in her sister¡¯s ears.


    ¡°I hope you get married before me Sera¡± Arabe whispered back into her ear.


    Both girls giggle and spent a little more time hugging.


    ¡°Go see grandma, she misses you,¡± Arabe said pulling apart.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    When Seraphina clocked twenty-three years old she had a falling out with her grandmother because she had refused to marry and refused all the blind dates they set up for her.


    Her grandmother had a hard time believing that a young girl would rather have a career than have tiny human beings popped out of her and this alone made her angry at Seraphina.


    Whenever Seraphina visited grandmother treated her quote poorly which made Seraphina feel bad. Seraphina stopped going there altogether.


    ¡°It¡¯s my one wish,¡± Arabe said when she saw the ufortable expression on her sister¡¯s face.


    The small family learned to live and do the little things for each other because they learned that a person can leave within the blink of an eye.


    ¡°I would do it but only because you asked¡± Seraphina responded kissing her sister¡¯s cheek.


    ¡°Thank you¡± Arabe responded kissing her sister back.


    ¡°I better get going,¡± she said nting a kiss on her mother¡¯s cheek.


    Tears flowed from her mother¡¯s face. She hurriedly cleaned it as she watched her daughter about to leave her for a foreignnd.


    ¡°Remember what I said, Mom. No one died so no crying¡±


    All thedies froze a little at the sound of the word died but they all nodded and gave ast hug before Arabe wheeled away her bag to get checked in.

 V

    During the whole twelve-hour connecting flight from Japan to Crescent Bay, Arabe read the books she had prepared. She studied English and Literary Studies and did a small degree in book editing. She was going to be a book editor at a publishing start-uppany at Crescent Bay.


    As soon as shended at the International airport at Crescent Bay she put a call to her mother to let her know she hadnded safely. She knew that her mother would be worried and constantly check the time and her phone to ensure her daughter was safe.


    ¡°Oh Ara, have you gotten to Crescent Bay?¡± Ava asked as soon as she put the call to her ears.


    ¡°Yes, Mom I am fine and well,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Have you seen Everly?¡± Ava asked.


    ¡°No Mom, I have not been able to call her to tell her that I arrived. I just called to tell you I have gotten here safe and sound and that I love and miss you¡± Arabe said.


    Ava felt a hot tear roll down her cheek. She still felt ufortable letting her little girl out of her sight but she had to do it. Her little girl was not so little anymore.


    ¡°Call Everly and let me know when you see each other¡± Ava said.


    She knew if she stayed longer on the call her daughter would be able to tell if she was crying and needed out immediately.


    ¡°Okay Mom,¡± Arabe said pulling her phone from her ear and cutting the call.


    As soon as she cut the call Everly¡¯s call came in before she could put a call through.


    ¡°Hello Ara, I heard the arrival announcement for your flight, where are you I wille to pick you up,¡± Everly said as soon as Arabe picked up.


    Everly was excited to have Arabe after a while of fourteen years of not seeing her.


    ¡°I will wait outside the arrival hall since I can¡¯t navigate well myself,¡± Arabe said pulling her luggage with her.


    ¡°Okay I will meet you there,¡± Everly said before she cut the call.


    Arabe sent a text to both her mom and sister to let them know she had contacted Everly and was currently waiting for her.


    Everly came and gave Arabe a good long hug. She was d to see Arabe and could not hide her excitement.


    ¡°It¡¯s so nice to have you back here again,¡± Everly said taking her bags from her.


    ¡°It is nice to be back here too¡± Arabe responded.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Everly said leading the way.


    ¡°Okay¡±


    They walked to the car park where an SUV was packed. Everly knocked on the boot ss and someone opened the boot from inside. Bothdies pushed all the luggage into the boot and came to sit in the car.


    Everly sat up front while Arabe took the seat behind her.


    ¡°You remember Kieran don¡¯t you?¡± Everly said looking back at Arabe.


    ¡°This is Kieran¡± Everly added with joy and pride evident in her voice.


    ¡°Nice to meet you,¡± Arabe said.


    The man turned back to look at her and the familiarnky blue-eyed boy came back to her memories.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Wee to Crescent Bay¡±


    Kieran had been a young boy who ending puberty did not do well. His face was filled with enough pimples for three faces. He was tall andnky and thin. His parents had money and that was the only thing that made the other popr kids hang out with him. The only thing that stood out was his blue eyes. Other kids in the neighborhood always called him the blue-eyed boy.


    Looking at Kieran now he was not the boy he used to be. Kieran was now a man after all. Thirty-four years of age was not a joke after all. He had matured beyond his days and it did him well. The pimples had disappeared and he was looking well-built and muscr.


    His face looked chiseled and his blue eyes showed through as he spoke and left a smile. Arabe could the coldness that radiated out of his words. ¡°Wee to Crescent Bay¡± sounded like ¡°Wee to your hell¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Arabe said with an unsure tone. She did not feel wee but she was thought good manners and she needed to thank him.


    ¡°Shall we¡± Everly said.


    Everly was beaming and happy. She was sad when her friend and daughters had to move away. She understood that they did it for the peace and sanity of their minds. Now that she had Arabe here she was sure that the probability of her friending back to Crescent Bay was now higher.


    ¡°How was the flight? I know you have not traveled far in a long time¡± Everly said.


    The girls and their mom were supposed to get back to Cresent Bay every year for the memorial of Richard but Ava had been too sad and heartbroken to make it down every year.


    ¡°It was quite long and tiring. I think I felt a little airsick but I am good now¡± Arabe responded.


    ¡°What would you like to have for dinner?¡± Everly asked.


    It was Arabe¡¯s first time back in fourteen years. Everly would be d to give her what she wanted.


    ¡°I have eaten Japanese meals for fourteen good years. I don¡¯t know what is good here so I would have anything you have to offer¡± Arabe said.


    She pulled out her book from her bag. She knew that she would have to keep talking and answering overwhelming questions if she doesn¡¯t use a book to have herself.


    ¡°Ara, you are still the same. You drown yourself in books any chance you get¡± Everly said.


    Arabeughed a little and did not lift her eyes from the book. She did not know how far the house she was going was from the airport but she was going to read a lot of pages before then.


    ¡°Kieran drive by the Spice Symphony and let¡¯s get a full dinner tonight I¡¯m too tired to make anything tonight,¡± Everly said.


    ¡°Okay ma,¡± Kieran said and changednes.


    Spice Symphony was the best restaurant in town and they opened only recently. Everly lived excited to show Arabe around and make her feelfortable.

 VI

    As Kieran pulled into the driveway of the Spice Symphony, Everly put off her seat belt and opened the door. She stood outside with the door open.


    ¡°Ara, are you sure you don¡¯t have anything special you want to eat?¡± Everly asked.


    ¡°I am good, thank you for asking,¡± Arabe said.


    She had promised her mother she would be on her best behavior. If it were her mother all up in her business while we were reading her book she would be raining fire all over her.


    ¡°I would be back,¡± Everly said closing the door and moving.


    The car fell silent as Arabe focused on her book and Kieran pulled out his phone to scroll through his Instagram. Everly spent quite a very long time beforeing back.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    ¡°As usual it was packed. I got a spicy pulled pork sandwich and a pizza¡± Everly said opening the door and sitting with the pizza box and nylon containing the pulled pork sandwich.


    ¡°I hope you like them?¡± oh I forgot to ask do you have any allergies you developed?¡± Everly added realizing she forgot to ask her that before she got the food.


    She knew Arabe in her childhood and she knew she had no special food allergy and wasn¡¯t a picky eater but things change over time and the circumstances she faced could make her change her eating habits.


    ¡°No, I am fine with anything¡± Arabe answered again.


    She could feel Everly¡¯s efforts to make her feelfortable around but she was not ufortable. She just wanted some peace to read her book.


    In a few minutes, Kieran drove into a mansion-like house and pulled up into the garage. He turned off the car and came down. He opened the car boot and then dropped her bag. Arabe rushed to meet him.


    ¡°I can do it myself,¡± Arabe said her hand flying to the handle of her luggage.


    ¡°If I don¡¯t do it my mom would hound me forever,¡± Kieran said with a short smile on her face.


    ¡°I can do it myself,¡± Arabe said again.


    She felt his vibe and she was sure that he was not happy with her being here. If he should help her more she would feel indebted to him and would want to pay him back.


    ¡°I insist,¡± Kieran said. The smile he took on was now gone. He pulled the handle from her hand and strolled away pulling the bag with him.


    ¡°Come along,¡± Everly said when she noticed that Arabe was not following them.


    They entered through the kitchen and the house was huge. The kitchen was as big as their house back in Japan. The house looked big enough to be used in any of the real Housewives series.


    ¡°Your house is so beautiful¡± Arabe could not help herself but voice out.


    ¡°Thank you very much. This is Kieran¡¯s house. He got a good job and we all live here now. You would also be living here¡± Everly said.


    Arabe thought to herself that her mom¡¯s friend had not changed one bit. She was still proud and shared her son¡¯s aplishments.


    It is beautiful¡± Arabe said truthfully.


    ¡°Her luggage is in her room, I would be going out for dinner with the CEO, see you when I get back,¡± Kieran said and did not stop on his way out.


    ¡°He is such a killjoy. Will it kill him to stay back and wee you since you only arrived today?¡± Everly said asking no one in particr.


    ¡°It¡¯s no worries. Can I freshen up before Ie down for dinner?¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Sure, my bad for wasting your time with the unnecessary talk,¡± Everly said and led her to her room on the second floor.


    Arabe wanted to go tell her mom and sister about how she got there. She especially wanted to tell her sister about the young boy who left for college the same day her dad died and how now he was a huge hunk to be admired. She would not leave out how rude he was to her all through the journey from the airport to his mansion.


    She knew that it would take up all her time so she decided to send her mom a message promising to call her when she was fully rested. Her sister¡¯s message on the other hand was an assurance to callter and go deep into the happenings of the day.


    The incident with their father had drawn the girls together as they learned the importance of family and how the family would rarely let you down. Seraphina who was excited for gossip sent an affirmative message that she would be avable to talk whenever she was ready.


    Arabe took a quick warm water shower and dried herself before going downstairs to meet the old couple. Arabe met Everly at the foot of the stairs.


    ¡°I was on my way up to call you. Don¡¯t want the meal to get cold¡± Everly said.


    Arabe had not taken too much time but Everly would prefer of she ate the meal while it was still hot enough so she can enjoy every bit of it.


    ¡°I am so sorry I took so long Mrs. Sterling,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°You did not take long at all. I just wanted you to have a hot meal tonight. And please call me Everly¡± She responded taking her hand and pulling her towards the kitchen area.


    ¡°I can¡¯t do that,¡± Arabe said.


    If her mom ever heard that she addressed her informally she would breathe herst breath on earth and join her ancestors in wherever after life was.


    ¡°I insist¡± Everly said stopping to peer into her eyes.


    They entered into one of the rooms beside the kitchen door and it revealed a vast dining hall. A mini Christmas party of about twenty to twenty-five people could easily be held there without any struggle.


    ¡°I must confess your house is¡­ I mean your mansion is very huge and beautiful¡± Arabe said as she entered the dining room.


    When she was led to her room she thought it was a hotel lounge. Some houses were the size of her room. Was she to sleep all alone in the room that a family of four could easily share?


    ¡°Thank you so very much for thepliments. I designed it myself and I was worried that it was a bit too much but now that you haveplimented me so many times I feel confident about it again¡± Everly said rubbing Arabe¡¯s hand.


    She had not let go of her hand yet. Everly was so d when her friend asked for a favour and that meant sending her daughter over. Everly had always been sad about not having a daughter of her own.


    Now that Arabe was here she was going to spoil her silly as her daughter.

 VII

    Ethan walked in to see Everly still holding the hand of Arabe.


    ¡°I did not know our guest had arrived. Everly why did you not call me when she came?¡± Ethan said.


    ¡°Because you hate it when I disturb you when you are ying your games,¡± Everly said.


    When they arrived she went to tell her husband that Arabe had arrived but she met him ying his favorite video game. Ethan retired almost six years ago and ever since then, he devoted his time and energy to ying video games.


    He only came out of the game room whenever it was mealtime. Everly could not understand but he seemed to never miss mealtime and was always on point. A perfect example is just now, she was yet to call him to join them for dinner but he hade out without fail. How was he doing it?


    ¡°Why would you say that darling?¡± Ethan said with a guilty smile across his face.


    ¡°Ara, I¡¯m so d you are here, finally another person to keep mepany with these men in this house. I have a husband but I have to talk to myself and also I have a son but he is never home. Men¡± Everly said finishing her sentence with a sigh.


    Asides from the reason that Arabe was her friend¡¯s daughter she was finally happy to have some other person in the house apart from her husband and son who have decided to leave her all to herself.


    Everly noticed that she began to slip into depression so she signed up for multiplenguage sses and dance lessons. That way she would not be in the house constantly keeping to herself.


    When she used to stay home all day she had Ava just the next day. Anytime she neededpany she knew where to go but recently she had been all alone with her thoughts and it¡¯s been overwhelming for her.


    ¡°You always make me and Kieran the viin in your story,¡± Ethan said pulling out the chair at the head of the table and sitting down.


    ¡°Can I have dinner?¡± he added.


    ¡°Come sit here,¡± Everly said pulling out one chair for Arabe. She sat and looked at the old man in her front.


    ¡°Good evening Mr. Sterling,¡± She said which made his head shoot up.


    Both parties were busy exchanging words that they forgot about why they were fighting in the first ce.


    ¡°Arabe¡± Ethan eximed.


    Although he was barely close with any of the girls it is still lovely to meet her after a long while. Ethan has only hung out with them because of his wide and most times he could have sports banter with Richard.


    ¡°It¡¯s so good to see you after all these years. I must say you are now a beautiful young woman¡± Ethan added with his eyes crinkled up in a smile.


    ¡°Thank you for thepliment sir,¡± Arabe said her head going down.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t she so polite and respectful?¡± Everly asked as she proceeded to set down the dinner in her hand.


    ¡°Can I assist with anything?¡± Arabe said standing up.


    ¡°Sit back down, I got it tonight,¡± Everly said.


    ¡°Thank you for the meal,¡± Arabe said before taking a bite off the te in front of her.


    ¡°Stop saying too much thanks. Anything for you. You now belong to the family. You are my daughter now¡± Everly said going to get the rest of the meal.


    Arabe ate silently as she devoured the delicious-tasting food that they got at Spice Symphony.


    Arabe finished her meal and helped with clearing the dishes. She wanted to wash them when Everly came out to meet her.


    ¡°Oh don¡¯t worry Gracie would take care of it¡± Everly said snatching the gloves out of her hand.


    ¡°Have a good rest. You have to go to work tomorrow morning¡± Everly said.


    ¡°Okay, then Mrs. Sterling. Thank you for the meal and the warm wee¡± Arabe said bowing her head.


    ¡°No need to thank me. I¡¯m happy to have someone to call a daughter and also call me Everly¡± she said holding her.


    ¡°It feels weird to call you by your first name¡± Arabe confessed.


    If her mom heard about it she was going to have her head. She would never dare call the adults in her family by their names.


    ¡°I insist¡± Everly said.


    ¡°Now run along¡± she added pushing Arabe towards the direction of the stairs.


    ¡°Ara, I forgot to mention this¡± Everly said which made Arabe stop in her tracks and turn back.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Arabe asked.


    For some reason that she couldn¡¯t pinpoint, she knew she would not like the news that she was about to hear.


    ¡°Kieran is a head executive at the editingpany you are going to work for. He would be taking you to work tomorrow so be early. I would wake you up anyways¡±


    Kieran was working in the samepany as she was? Why did she just learn about it now? It was not as if she knew beforehand she would have rejected the offer. If she did not see him now she would have probably forgotten all about him.


    ¡°Okay, that¡¯s fine. I was wondering how I would get there anyways¡± Arabe saidposing herself.


    She did not know but something about Kieran did not sit right with her it felt as if he was proud and not weing. She did not care anyways she was not here for him. She was here to finally achieve her dream of being an editor. She was d it was a start-up so she could easily rise through the ranks.


    ¡°Good night Mrs¡­ Everly,¡± Arabe said changing Mrs Sterling to Everly when she saw the look on the woman¡¯s face.


    ¡°Good night darling,¡± Everly said blowing her a kiss.


    Arabe entered her room and sat on the bed. She called her sister while she tried to arrange her luggage. She picked out what she was going to wear on her first day of work. She was overly excited.


    ¡°How was your trip?¡± Seraphina asked her.


    ¡°Tiring, I forgot how I hated nes. Imagine I had to cross over again¡± Arabe said with augh in her words.


    She was seriously missing her family and she wished she could fly right now to be with them.


    ¡°How is Mom?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°She has gone out to meet with thedies,¡± Seraphina said.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Ava was a woman who was a social butterfly. The girls referred to thedies as Ava¡¯s friends. Thedies were a group of house wives who gossiped.


    ¡°Is she doing well without me?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been gone less than a day,¡± Seraphina said in a teasing tone.


    Seraphina knew that that night her mom was going to cry her eyes out.


    ¡°Do you remember Kieran?¡±

 VIII

    ¡°Kieran Kieran?¡± Seraphina said multiple times trying to remember.


    ¡°The scruffy-looking blue eyes boy that lived next door?¡± Arabe said in a question form.


    ¡°You mean Mrs. Sterling¡¯s son?¡± Seraphina asked.


    She knew her sister had a very peculiar way of exining things but this particr one made herugh.


    ¡°Yeah him,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°You know you could have asked me if I remember Mrs. Sterling¡¯s son?¡± Seraphina asked her.


    ¡°Whatever,¡± Arabe said dismissing her sister¡¯s criticism.


    ¡°What about him?¡± Seraphina asked.


    She was always ready for tea.


    ¡°He turned to be a beautiful blue-eyed man. If I had met him outside I would think of him as a beautiful hunk¡± Arabe said dreamily.


    ¡°Your book fantasies ying out again?¡± Seraphina asked.


    ¡°I wish I took a picture so I could show you,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°You would jump at an opportunity to date him¡± Arabe knew Seraphina. She has been in and out of rtionships but never settled with any of them. In all the time she started working she only went after handsome and well-built men.


    Being in the entertainment industry she had the opportunity to meet well-established and good-looking men who were interested in entertainment and she snatched the hearts of a few of them.


    ¡°I am going online now to check him out,¡± Seraphina said standing up to pick up herptop.


    She quickly went online to check the man out. She was the one who was going to be a judge of his beauty. She concluded that Arabe did not know anything about men so her standards could be low.


    ¡°There are too many Kieran Sterlings on here. Do you have any other information about him?¡± Seraphina asked.


    ¡°Sera??¡± Arabe cried out.


    ¡°Whatttt?¡± Seraphina said drawing out the word.


    ¡°I just got there a few moments ago. What more could I possibly know about him apart from his name?¡± Arabe answered.


    She could not believe her sister. Was she supposed to sit him down and begin to question him?


    ¡°Oh wait,¡± Arabe said before her sister could go into a full criticizing and lecture mode.


    ¡°What what what is it?¡± Seraphina asked.


    Her duty was to find the beautiful hunk that her sister imed to have lived with her in the same house.


    ¡°He works at the samepany as I do. Mrs. Everly said that he was a top executive¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Okay, what¡¯s the name of yourpany?¡± Seraphina asked.


    She was eager to find out what he looked like atst.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know the name of thepany that I left home and traveled halfway across the country toe work for?¡±N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Arabee on don¡¯t be like that. You haven¡¯t even started walking there¡± Seraphina said defending herself.


    ¡°Do you even know the name of my ownpany?¡± Seraphina challenged.


    She knew that Arabe would most likely get it but it was better to try her luck.


    ¡°Electra Entertainment,¡± Arabe said proudly.


    ¡°Yeah yeah, you got it so what? Just tell me the name of yourpany¡± Seraphina said.


    Now that Arabe got it her defenses were high up. If she told her she would do her best to never forget it.


    ¡°It¡¯s Prose Perfect,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Found him,¡± Seraphina said.


    She scrolled through the page and gasped.


    ¡°Was I right?¡± Arabe asked feeling proud.


    Seraphina had told her multiple times that she could not identify beautiful men because she did not watch shows and therefore she could not know what they looked like she could only imagine them.


    ¡°Yes yes he is beautiful but he is the co-CEO of yourpany,¡± Seraphina said.


    ¡°What??¡± Arabe asked shocked.


    After Arabe had sessfully confirmed that the picture of the co-CEO she saw on thepany website was that of Kieran she went to bed because the next day was going to be a long one for her.


    It was almost past midnight when Kieran walked in. He met his mother on the couch dozing off.


    ¡°Why did you wait up for me?¡± Kieran asked.


    His voice was stern. He was worried about his mother¡¯s back. She has a bad back and had to go into surgery two times now for it. She should be sleeping after all the stress she put herself into to wee the new girl.


    ¡°Why did you leave us alone when you knew that we had a guest?¡± Everly asked ignoring his question.


    ¡°You did not possibly need me there to keep herpany did you?¡± Kieran asked back.


    He knew his mother could be extra many times but this time it was simply uneptable. What was he to be saying to her?


    ¡°What would we have discussed?¡± he asked.


    ¡°She ising to work in yourpany. You know that. You could have given her advice¡± Everly said.


    ¡°I would give her advice tomorrow. Are you happy now?¡± Kieran asked as he saw a smile draw up on her face.


    ¡°And give her a drive to work?¡± Everly added in the form of a question


    ¡°Why do I need to do that?¡± Kieran asked.


    ¡°Raise a son they said. Now he can¡¯t even do me a simple favor¡± Everly sighed sitting back down.


    ¡°I would drive her to work tomorrow,¡± Kieran said giving in to his mother¡¯s pressure.


    ¡°Thank you, darling. Goodnight¡± Everly said turning around and climbing the stairs.


    ¡°Go straight to bed¡± Kieran shouted after her.


    ¡°I will¡± Everly shouted back.


    On her way to her room, she stopped by Arabe¡¯s room and checked in on her. She saw her sleeping soundly on the bed.


    ¡°Sleep tight Ara,¡± she said before going to her room.


    Arabe woke up by six am and took care of herself. She put on a in ck dress with long sleeves and three-inch gold shoes. She did a little mild makeup. She packed up her hair into a neat ponytail. She held her important documents and took her handbag.


    She opened the door to find Everly about to knock.


    ¡°Oh, you are already ready? I was justing by to wake you up.¡± Everly said seeing the well-dressed girl standing in front of her.


    ¡°Yes. I have been asked to resume by eight am. I figured I better leave early up ensure I get there on time¡± Arabe lied.


    Her resumption time was nine and not right. She was looking to avoid running into Kieran. If he knew that they were going to be working together why did he not say anything?


    Surely his mom must have mentioned it to him. Why did y dumb?


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s too bad. Kieran usually goes in around eight-thirty so he won¡¯t be ready now. You might have to leave on your own¡± Everly said.


    ¡®Perfect¡¯ Arabe screamed internally. It was just what she wanted and she was d she got just that.


    ¡°Pick up breakfast outside at the Perfect Breakfast. Gracie is not done preparing it¡± Everly said.


    ¡°That¡¯s okay. I would just grab a cup of coffee and have ate breakfast¡± Arabe told her.


    ¡°Do have a lovely day¡± Everly said squeezing her hand.


    ¡°And you too. Thanks, Everly¡± Arabe said conscious of the woman¡¯s dislike for formality.


    ¡°See you after work¡± Everly called after her as she climbed down the stairs.

 IX

    Arabe stood at the gate of the mansion. She looked inside and thanked God that she was able to sessfully avoid him. She knew she could not avoid him forever but she would continue to do so until she couldn¡¯t.


    She looked around her and realized that she could not recognize it anywhere. She was suddenly tempted to go back and ask for help but then Kieran might havee out for breakfast and her lie would be exposed.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She pulled out her phone from her bag and checked the location of thepany from her phone. It was a thirty minutes walk from her current location. She looked down at her shoes andughed loud to herself.


    She only wore heels to impress the people at thepany. She was not going to do it any longer. She has to get coffee first. She pulled up a search result on the coffee shops next to her. She found them within a few steps from her and decided to get a cold coffee drink from them.


    As opposed to Crescent Bay Japan at this time of the year was much cooler as they approached the winter. She got her drink and stepped out to the tform of the coffee shop.


    She pulled up the Uber app and ordered one. There was no way she was going to walk all the way there. She got to the front of the building where herpany was located at eight am sharp.


    She was extra early so she waited in the cafeteria on the first floor. If she knew that there was a cafeteria here should wouldn¡¯t have had a coffee outside. She ordered a sandwich and pulled out her iPad and began to read a book.


    The rm she had set for eight forty-five rang so she stood up and went up the building. It was her first day so she needed to make a good impression on her bosses, especially the one living in the house she lived in.


    She pushed open the door to the smallpany. She began to wonder if thepany would be able to afford the sry that they had promised her.


    Thepany had an open space kind of setting with three offices facing them. One had the CEO stered on it. The other had CCO stered on it and thest had Chief Editor.


    Since Arabe had applied for the role of an editor she knew that she would be working right beside the editor. She prayed silently in her heart that the editor whatever gender would be a loving and kind person.


    ¡°Hello, how may I help you?¡± a petite girl said standing in front of her.


    ¡°Hi, I am Arabe Bishop and I resume today for the role of editor here,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Those Bastards¡± the woman sighed out loud.


    ¡°Sorry,¡± Arabe said confused.


    ¡°Oh don¡¯t mind mynguage¡± she sighed in frustration.


    ¡°Who do I meet to start?¡± Arabe asked.


    This woman was probably the office assistant and there was no way she would stand wasting time when she had probably so much to do on her first day.


    ¡°I am Aurora Quinn and I am the Chief Editor and Co-CEO of thepany¡±


    Arabe felt her eyes and mouth opening by themselves.


    ¡°Hello ma¡¯am¡±


    Kieranes down for his breakfast. He meets his mom and dad at the table. They were arguing. Ever since Richard retired he had been having it on outs constantly with his wife.


    ¡°And did you consult me before bringing the girl?¡± Richard asked.


    He had no problem with Arabe it was just that his wife did not consult him before inviting her over. He would have still supported but he felt insulted by his wife.


    ¡°I never knew that I needed your promise to invite my best friend¡¯s daughter to my son¡¯s house,¡± Everly said sitting beside him.


    She felt Richard kept hounding on unnecessary things that morning.


    ¡°And do you both think this is a good time to be talking about this with our guest just above us,¡± Kieran said sitting too.


    ¡°Don¡¯t pay attention to your father. He just likes blowing things out of proportion¡± Everly said putting a piece of pancake on Kieran¡¯s te.


    ¡°Mom¡± Kieran cautioned.


    ¡°I am sorry then,¡± Everly said giving in.


    She had always felt cheated living with two men. One husband who did not care and an extremely distant son. For the rest of the dinner, they were all quiet with no onementing or saying anything.


    ¡°Mom, call the girl I am about to leave,¡± Kieran said standing up.


    ¡°She has left. Didn¡¯t I say so earlier?¡± Everly asked.


    ¡°No you did not say so you were busy arguing with me,¡± Richard said under his breath but loud enough so they could hear him.


    ¡°Oh please,¡± Everly said rolling her eyes. ¡°I have better things to do in the morning¡± she added.


    ¡°Why did she leave early?¡± Kieran asked.


    ¡°She said that she had to resume by eight am,¡± Everly said entering back into the kitchen.


    ¡°But she is supposed to resume at nine am¡± Kieran called after her.


    ¡°Maybe she mixed up the time?¡± Everly asked as she came out of the kitchen with a to-go cup in her hand.


    ¡°Here is your tea,¡± Everly said giving him the cup.


    ¡°Thanks, Mom,¡± He said taking the cup from her hand.


    He wondered why he mixed up the time. He entered his car and drive towards the office.


    When he got in he met Aurora and Arabe in a deep conversation. The two women had met and clicked.


    ¡°Kieran,¡± Aurora said as her eyesid on him. She jumped and went to hold his hand. ¡°I missed you¡± she added.


    ¡°And I did not miss you¡±Kieran responded peeling her hand off.


    Arabe was able to read the situation that Aurora was in love with Kieran while Kieran did not have a slight affection for her.


    ¡°Did you get the wrong information?¡± Kieran asked turning to face Arabe.


    ¡°Sir?¡± Arabe asked confused. She felt that Kieran would want to stay away from her in the office after all he gave off the cold vibes.


    ¡°Did you get the wrong information?¡± Kieran asked again. ¡°Why did you leave the house before eight?¡± he added in a question.


    ¡°The house?¡± Aurora asked in confusion

 X

    Arabe stared at him, this was the most he had said to her ever since she knew him even while he was a kid.


    ¡°I mixed up the time¡± She opened her mouth and then said.


    ¡°I would drive you to work from now on,¡± he said.


    He was not waiting for her to give him a response because he turned on his feet. She wanted to stop him but was not sure how to address him. By his first name? By hisst name? By adding Mr to his first orst name? She did not know the protocol of the office so she was going to tell himter that she can get to work by herself and that he doesn¡¯t need to worry.


    ¡°What does he mean to drive you? How did you meet Kieran?¡± Aurora asked.


    ¡°I have known Kieran since I was young and it was a surprise I got a job here,¡± Arabe said skipping all the details.


    ¡°But why is he saying house and why is he thinking of driving you?¡± Aurora asked.


    She might be nice and pretty but she did not like any girl thatpeted with her for Kieran¡¯s attention and affection.


    She had known him since college and she was determined to make him hers. They had almost dated but Kieran rejected her every time she asked him out.


    She, Kieran, and Ryder had been in a group at school. Their friendship was unlikely because while Kieran was in the Department of Business, both Aurora and Ryder attended the Department of Literature and majored in creative writing.


    Since Kieran had the business sense the three of them pulled together funds and opened up the business for themselves. The only thing that ever brought the three of them together was that they had the same elective and Auroraid her eyes on him decided he was eye candy and chased him. That¡¯s how their friendship was born.


    ¡°Well, when I was young we had to move far away,ter got a job down here and had to move back. My mom and his mom were friends and she invited me to stay over at his house while l look for a ce of my own¡± Arabe added in thest part because of the look on her face.


    She knew she couldn¡¯t look for her own space she knew neither her mom nor Everly would let her get away with having her own space as easily as she said it but she could sense that Aurora had a thing for Kieran and that she would not like it if another woman seems closer to him than her.


    It was impossible to tell from Kieran¡¯s face and bodynguage if he likes her. He ignored her all through the conversation her had with her and that must have ticked him off a little.


    ¡°Okay that¡¯s fine,¡± Aurora said brightening up. ¡®It¡¯s not a big deal she thought internally. There was no way this little girl would dare to challenge what she had built for thirteen years plus¡¯ she thought and then smiled.


    ¡°Everyone would soon be here so we would do an introduction,¡± Aurora said standing up and going in the direction of her office.


    A little whileter they were all seated in a small meeting room that can take at least twenty-five people at once.


    Ryder Hawthorne who was the CEO was seated by the head of the table, Aurora Quinn was by his right hand, and Kieran Sterling was by his left hand.


    Beside Kieran, there were four people three men and one woman. Noah, Henry, Aaron, and Mia. Beside Aurora were two women Olivia and Chole. Arabe was seated beside Chole.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°There is nothing serious to talk about, all I want to say is that we should all wee and treat the newbie well. She would be working under Aurora as an editor¡± Ryder said.


    ¡°Should we go round the room introducing ourselves?¡± Ryder asked.


    Arabe tried to figure out what kind of man he was. His smile was huge and he looked around the same age as Kieran which automatically meant that Aurora was in their age group.


    Ryder had long red hair that was longer than what men in Crescent Bay usually had. He was dressed in a leather jacket which she thought did not portray his age as it should.


    ¡°I am Ryder and I¡¯m the CEO¡± Ryder said gesturing to the rest of the people to join in the introduction.


    ¡°We met earlier but I am Aurora and I¡¯m the chief editor and a Co-CEO¡± Aurora said but all the while looking at Kieran.


    ¡°I am Kieran and I¡¯m in charge of finances and management and I am a Co-CEO,¡± he said. He looked at her briefly before ncing back down at the book in front of him.


    ¡°I am Noah and I¡¯m the graphics designer,¡± he said smirking at her, and then winked.


    ¡°I am Henry and I¡¯m in charge of advertising and marketing,¡± he said ufortably meeting her eyes and then looking away.


    ¡°I am Aaron and I¡¯m in charge of production management,¡± he said smiling at her. His smile was the greatest of them all.


    ¡°I am Mia and I am in charge of illustrations,¡± Mia said.


    ¡°I am Olivia and I manage the authors and their contracts,¡± she said looking ahead.


    ¡°I am Chole and I am the assistant editor¡±


    ¡°I am Arabe Bishop and I am the new editor,¡± Arabe said giving a smile. She needed this job or else she was going back to Japan to continue living in her mom¡¯s house.


    ¡°As you can Arabe, we¡¯re a smallpany and we are looking to expand. We hope your time with us would bring about that expansion. We might be just a little in number but respect each other. We call each other by our first names but in a respectful way. Do not hesitate to reach out to any of us for help I would be d to take on your first request for help¡± Ryder said standing up at the end of his statement.


    He walked to the door of the room before turning back to them. ¡°Tonight we have a wee party if the newbie and everyone is invited. If you do note you have a pay cut this month¡± he said smirking.


    ¡°Can he do that?¡± Mia groaned.


    ¡°You know he is not bluffing,¡± Noah said smiling and standing up too.


    ¡°PARTY,¡± Aaron said in a loud voice.


    ¡°Any opportunity they get to party they grab it, ¡± Olivia said rolling her eyes at them.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get to work,¡± Kieran said in a stern voice.


    Everyone apart from Aurora stood up and cowered out of the room. Although they had been instructed to call each other by first names they could not call Kieran by first name because I the authority he exudes around the ces.


    ¡°Let me show you to your desk,¡± Noah said.

 XI

    ¡°You did not tell me that the girl we hired was somehow rted to you,¡± Aurora said sad standing and going over to his side of the table.


    ¡°I did not deem it fit as information I needed to tell you¡± Kieran answered standing up.


    ¡°We are going to live happily ever after. I¡¯m sure of it¡± Aurora said drawing closer to him and winking.


    Kieran knew that Aurora had a thing for him but he always thought it was a crush that would fade away over time. He ever expected that thirteen yearster she was still asking him out from day one.


    ¡°Never¡± Kieran replied picking his book and ready to go out.


    ¡°Kieran¡± She called after him. He stopped and turned back to her. She made a heart shape with her hands and blew a kiss at him.


    ¡°If we are leaders here we should show our loyalty to thepany and also lead by example by not wasting our time on frivolity and foolishness but instead we should devote ourselves to our work so we can get maximum results,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°You just need to open up that pretty mouth of yours to ruin the mood. You always know what to say¡± Aurora said frowning.


    She did not know what about him attracted her but she always found herself being drawn to him no matter what he did. he had just spoilt the mood with his unnecessary speech but she still saw him as a hot spectacle that should be devoured.


    ¡°And if you work as much as you do foolish things ourpany would be doing much better,¡± Kieran said leaving her there to his office.


    ¡°That hot sexy jerk¡± she muttered and followed suit. She entered the office areas and stopped in her step she looked around before saying.


    ¡°Arabe and Chole my office now¡±


    She walked into her office and sat down on one of the sofas inside them. Both girls walked in together. Chole was a quiet girl but spoke harshly and truthfully when necessary. She has a pixie-cut hairstyle and is dressed like a youngster would.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    ¡°This would be your first assignment and it would be like your probationary period work. So I would advise you to use all the help you can get¡± Aurora said.


    The smile left on Aurora¡¯s face sent a big chill down Arabe¡¯s spine. For some reason, it felt like she wanted to get her back for something she had done before. This was one of the major reasons that Arabe did not want to ride with Kieran, she wanted misconceptions or misunderstanding.


    She was even unaware of the fact that Kieran had a work fling or work crush which was her superior. How to make your work life hard? Arabe would need to learn the basics.


    ¡°We can address you as Ara right?¡± Aurora asked.


    ¡°Chole ensure to help her with everything she needs¡± Aurora continues not letting Arabe answer. She stands up and walks to her desk.


    ¡°Okay Aurora¡± Chole answered looking down at her phone.


    ¡°This is a new work. I want you to review without revising and tell me if you think it¡¯s worth publishing with us¡± Aurora saiding and dropping the manuscript in the hands of Arabe.


    ¡°Okay, I can do that¡± Arabe responded. She loves books and that was why she was here.


    ¡°Good then, Ara good luck¡±


    ¡°Did you offend Aurora?¡± Chole said as soon as they were out of the room. She reached in her pocket and pulled out a gum packet, she extended her hand to Arabe to pick.


    Arabe went in and dly picked one. She has been given a hard assignment on her first day here. She had so many doubts abouting here and this woman was adding to it.


    ¡°No, I have not¡± Arabe replied before popping the gum in her mouth.


    ¡°I guess she does not like you but she usually likes everyone. Normally she would have reviewed it alongside you but seeing that she did not then something must be wrong¡± Chole said again.


    Arabe felt it was because she knew Kieran. Yes, these were the things she tried to avoid and she was going to exin in in terms to him. They even barely spoke to each other it would be unfair of him to make her work life hard.


    She had regrets but she did not want to run away from it. She would then seem foolish and that she should have listened to her family at first instead of going all the way and thening back.


    ¡°I will help you¡± Chole offered. ¡°But only because I think you¡¯re cute¡± She added and winked before she left.


    Arabe followed her. She saw an empty office space and assumed it to be hers. If she was going to impress the woman then she had better get started. Next to the space was Aaron.


    ¡°Can I sit here?¡± She whispered to him.


    He looked up from his system and nodded at her. She smiled and slid into the chair. The space only had aputer and an empty photo frame.


    ¡°You can design the space as you want¡± Aaron informed her.


    ¡°Okay thank you,¡± she said dropping her bag.


    She began to go through the manuscript. Even if Chole had volunteered to help her surely she had her work to do and she was not going to be a burden to anyone there. It was all quiet till it was lunchtime.


    ¡°Oh, finally lunch,¡± Mia said standing up.


    ¡°Oh my, it is already lunchtime?¡± Olivia said too.


    ¡°Are we getting lunch together?¡± Henry asked.


    ¡°Come on let¡¯s go¡± Chole whispered to Arabe¡¯s ear. She was a little startled and turned back at her.


    ¡°Do we get lunch together?¡± Arabe asked standing up and taking her jacket.


    ¡°Sometimes but I guess today is your lucky day. You get to eat with us¡± Chole responded linking hands with her.


    ¡°I just came from Japan. I do not know what is good here¡± Arabe told her silently.


    ¡°Everything is good here. Do not worry I would make sure you have a good lunch¡± Chole said.


    She pulled Arabe to catch up with the rest of their coworkers who have made their way downstairs. Chole was the youngest amongst them and she was d someone in her age range was finally her.


    ¡°How old are you?¡± Chole whispered into her ears. ¡°I am twenty-three by the way¡± she added.


    ¡°I would be twenty-four next month¡± Arabe whispered back.


    ¡°Ohhh, a birthday party to attend,¡± Chole said before pulling her towards the other people.

 XII

    ¡°I did not know you all wereing here for lunch we could have tagged along,¡± Ryder said standing in front of them.


    They had entered a Chinese restaurant and Arabe was d because it was something she was at least familiar with.


    ¡°You can just pick up the bill,¡± Noah said taking a sip of his water.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°We are having dinner tonight and I already know I¡¯m picking up the bill so everyone pays okay?¡± Ryder said tapping the table twice.


    ¡°Boo you old man¡± the whole group except Arabe shouted at him.


    Arabe did not know if it was okay to feel sofortable with the CEO. Was it because it was a smallpany?


    ¡°Rx,¡± Ryder said his hand going to her shoulder when he saw the tense expression on her face.


    ¡°I¡¯m rxed,¡± Arabe said jerking at his touch.


    ¡°Have fun, we would be over there¡± Ryder said pointing to his table.


    Aurora and Kieran were standing behind Ryder. Kieran was engrossed with his phone while Aurora had her hand linked to his. As they walked by to follow Ryder, Kieran raised his eyes and locked eyes with Arabe. She looked down and around ufortably. She was already in a big issue because she knew him. Who knows what Aurora can do if she saw them having eye contact?


    For the rest of the lunch they only chatted about thingsmon in Crescent Bay. Arabe hardly had any input as she focused on her Biang Biang Noodles.


    They spilled the bill and then had their way out of the restaurant leaving the executives there.


    ¡°Do you know Kieran?¡± Olivia asked knowing catching her speed with Arabe.


    ¡°I would not say I know him but we were neighbors fourteen years ago when before I moved to Japan. His mom is amodating me before I find a ce of my own¡± Arabe said.


    She did not want to associate with Kieran just in case but she did not want to lie just in case too.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think Kieran is so cool and dreamy?¡± Mia said dreamily.


    Arabe did not get what they saw in him. Yes, he was fine but since she knew him when he was younger, everything they could find hot about him was now a mystery to her.


    ¡°I guess,¡± she said.


    ¡°You guess?¡± Mia said as If she had justmitted a grave offense.


    ¡°Well, he is okay. I have not thought about his looks¡± Arabe confessed.


    She was in Crescent Bay to work and not look at the men at her work.


    ¡°I noticed Kieran staring at you the whole time¡± Noah added.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so,¡± Arabe said.


    She so desperately wished some person amongst them will change the topic. She felt ufortable enough about being in the same space with him how could they so thoughtlessly bring it up?


    ¡°Can¡¯t you see she is ufortable talking about it?¡± Henry asked when he nced at her face.


    ¡°Are you ufortable?¡± Noah asked her.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she answered honestly.


    ¡°Wow you¡¯re so honest,¡± Aaron said for the first time.


    ¡°It¡¯s better than lies isn¡¯t it?¡± she asked back.


    Soon they were at the base of their office.


    ¡°Back to the rest of the day,¡± Mia said wearily


    The rest of the work day everyone silently went through their work with asional bathroom breaks and gossip at the lunch break and coffee room.


    Kieran came out in a bid to run off before he is forced to attend the dinner that would serve as a wee for Arabe. He was used to avoiding these work dinners as much as he could.


    ¡°Where do you think you are going?¡± Ryder asked standing at the frame of his door as he saw Kieran try to slip away quietly.


    All eyes on the office floor turn to face Ryder¡¯s door and all gazes follow his eyes until itnds on Kieran who was just about to leave.


    ¡°I said everybody must attend and you dare to think to run away? Do you think I can not cut your pay?¡± Ryder asked walking towards his friend.


    Ryder had been married and divorced and he had told his friend that the reason he was yet to find love was because of his cold-hearted nature.


    ¡°I was just going to drop this bag in my car¡± Kieran lied.


    He knew that if Ryder caught him trying to escape then he would make a big fuss out of it but he took his chance anyways.


    ¡°Yeah lies,¡± Ryder said rolling his eyes at him.


    ¡°Now everyone had ten minutes to round up. Let¡¯s take our cars and give anyone who doesn¡¯t have a car a lift to the ce.¡± Ryder said and turned to go back.


    He turned back to Kieran and said. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare try to escape¡±


    ¡°No one threw me a wee party,¡± Chole said which made Arabe startled.


    Kieran walked towards Arabe and stood in front of her.


    ¡°Do you want a ride?¡± he asked.


    He had promised his mother he was going to be good to her and there was no reason for him not to be. She was a decent girl and barely made any trouble.


    He remembered her from her young years and all he could remember was a young girl with big sses stered on her face and a book in hand always.


    It made perfect sense that she wanted to be an editor. What was he doing there? This was the third business he invested in. He decided to settle down in this one and take an executive role.


    ¡°Uhmm¡± Arabe responded confused.


    Her eyes caught Aurora¡¯s door and saw her standing there staring at her.


    ¡°I would take Aurora¡¯s car. I have a lot of questions for her¡± Arabe said quickly saving herself.


    She was not going to kill herself all in the name of going with someone she was at least familiar with. Her brain began to rack for questions because she had none. She has read the manuscript and had help from Chole in reviewing it.


    She thanked God she had a knack for reading multiple pages of a book within a short time. She was almost done with the book and she would be giving a report the next day.


    ¡°Who else would be going with me?¡± Aurora asked.


    ¡± I would,¡± Chole said.


    ¡°Anyone else?¡± Aurora asked.


    Aurora was not a bully but she had a habit of making things difficult for those she thought stood in her way so almost everyone avoided her. If there was no reason to meet they would not create one.


    ¡°Okay, then shall we?¡± Aurora said moving to the door.

 XIII

    Arabe was not a fan of alcohol because she was lightweight. After a cup of beer, she could easily pass out. While the was still in Japan she was often ostracized for her friend groups because she refused to join in the fun.


    She usually preferred her quiet evenings with her nose in her book.


    ¡°Are you not going to drink?¡± Ryder asked taking his bottle of beer to his mouth.


    ¡°You are no fun,¡± Chole said tugging her hand.


    ¡°I am so sorry. I don¡¯t drink because I pass out after a ss¡± Arabe said exining herself for the nth time tonight.


    It was not a strange urrence to encounter someone who could not handle their liquor. They were rare but not strange.


    ¡°Take half a ss then,¡± Noah said pushing a full ss her way.


    Arabe felt ufortable. She has never been forced to drink when she did not want to. This was a first for her. ¡®Were they allowed to do so? Was it because she was a newbie?¡¯ she thought as her hands shakily went to the cup.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She pitied Kieran because he was the one who would have to log her back home like a piece of wood. How would she exin showing up drunk only on the second night of her stay at Everly¡¯s house? If her mom heard she would cuss her out in Japanese that she barely understood.


    ¡°I think it is illegal to force someone to drink,¡± Kieran said tapping away on his phone. ¡°She already said she is a lightweight¡± he added.


    ¡°But this wee party is for her¡± Mia grumbled.


    ¡°She never asked you for a wee party. You threw one for her without asking her if she was interested¡± he continued.


    The table fell silent. Kieran has a habit of putting a wet rag over the mood. Arabe who felt ufortable now felt relieved that someone was taking her side even though it was thest person she thought would do that.


    ¡°Vibe killer,¡± Aaron said in a disguised cough.


    ¡°If anybody brings tries to make her drink again, I would call the police,¡± Kieran said and then dripped his phone to the table before taking a sip of his beer.


    ¡°Are you that ufortable?¡± Aurora asked Arabe her voice icy cold.


    ¡°I just do not drink,¡± Arabe said.


    She did not want to embarrass herself and she wanted to be sober enough when she had to tell Kieran that she did not need his help at work. She didn¡¯t want to be bullied. If he wanted to help her then the best bet was to leave her and ignore her like he does to the others.


    ¡°You¡¯re boring,¡± Chole said pinching her arm lightly. ¡°But I still like you¡± She added dropping her head to her shoulders.


    ¡°Let¡¯s toast to Arabe bing a part of the family then,¡± Ryder said.


    He knew his friend and he knew that Kieran could call the cops on them because they forced her to drink. He was not always vocal but he hated injustice and bullying.


    The dinner ended with everyone drunk except Arabe who was sober and Kieran who was tipsy. She has no idea what to do. She did not know their house address so she could call cabs for them. Taking the courage she shook Kieran who was still half awake.


    ¡°Kieran¡± she called his name gently. He opened his and stared into hers. His gaze was deep and piercing and the color of his eyes shone deeply.


    ¡°How do we get everyone home?¡± She asked ignoring his deep eyes as they stared at her.


    ¡°Home?¡± He asked his voice slurry.


    ¡°Yes how can they all get home?¡± she asked again.


    He smiled a little before he began to have hups. That was the first time she had seen him smile ever since she knew him. He always put on a serious expression which made no onee close to him.


    ¡°Kieran can you hear me?¡± she shook him lightly again. He yawned and closed his eyes.


    She looked to the table and her eyes caught the ss of water. They were weing her why did they all drink so much? Were they mourning something or was this just an opportunity for them to drink without control?


    ¡°I might get in trouble for this but it¡¯s gettingte and I can not sleep in a bar,¡± She said loudly to herself.


    None of them were in proper shape to give her an answer. Even Kieran who wasn¡¯t as drunk as the rest could barely keep his eyes open. She picked up the ss and dipped her finger inside and sprinkled the water on the face of Kieran.


    He winced and murmured something she could not piece together. She did so again. He repeated his actions and scratched his nose adorably.


    ¡°I need sleep,¡± Arabe said her voice louder than when she first spoke to herself.


    She traveled and had to resume work the over next day. She was still jetgged and had not had time to sleep properly. ¡®Would she get in trouble for leaving them here?¡¯ she thought.


    The temptation of leaving them and finding sce in the bed at the house was more tempting. She held the cup in her hand and threw the content to the face of Kieran.


    The water trickled down his face and dropped his shirt. He jerked up and red at her. At this point, she did not care about the kind of look he gave her as long as she could get home.


    ¡°Are you awake now?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Yes, I am. Thanks to your water¡± he answered grumbling.


    ¡°I am sorry I had to do that, but I have been trying to wake you up for a while now. How do we get everyone home?¡± She asked.


    Kieran picked up his phone and began to call designated drivers for each of them. Soon the drivers wereing in and helping the drunk people to their cars. Thest driver toe was the one to take Arabe and Kieran home.

 XIV

    ¡°Ermm¡± Arabe cleared her throat to grab the attention of the drowsy man beside her in the back seat.


    The young driver looked at her through the rearview mirror and winked at her. She frowned to send a message she was not pleased with his attitude.


    ¡°Do you have something to say?¡± Kieran said his voice slurring.


    Was now I good time to tell him what she wanted to say? Was it not better if she could allow him to be sober so he could hear all she was going to say?


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I would tell you tomorrow morning¡± she replied sighing.


    Her whole weekend and week start has been very challenging and stressful. She attended her cousin¡¯s borate wedding and traveled almost immediately and here she was taking a drunk man home.


    This was not the way she saw her living here to be. She did not envisage that her boss would be living in the same house and that her immediate superior would have a crush on her boss and that she would be caught in a crossfire that she knew nothing about.


    ¡°Are you married?¡± the driver asked.


    ¡°How old are you?¡± Arabe asked disgusted.


    ¡°Age doesn¡¯t mean anything. It¡¯s just a number¡± He responded with a wink.


    ¡°Boy I am not in your league,¡± Arabe said looking out the window. ¡°This is probably your summer job¡± she added.


    A blush crept up the face of the boy. He had just been discovered. He just clocked seventeen and he was doing this job to get himself a motorcycle.


    ¡°Just do your job well and I would give you a good tip,¡± Arabe said dismissing him.


    She had a whole day of work silence but for some reason, she wanted the silence she could only get in her bed room back home in Japan.


    The young driver pulled into the gate of the mansion. Arabe had no other words to describe this house except that it was a mansion.


    ¡°This is where you live?¡± the boy gasped in shock. ¡°You are rich?¡± he added in question. ¡°I would ept a big tip and pay okay?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t live here. I am currently squatting here¡± Arabe said.


    She had the same expression. This house was too big for him to own. It felt surreal and she could not believe it.


    ¡°Tell your boyfriend to give me a generous tip,¡± the boy said.


    ¡°He is not my boyfriend¡± Arabe quickly countered him.


    ¡°Really? You look so good together and sitting in that back seat together. I can imagine you two together¡± the boyplimented.


    ¡°Are you ttering me to get more out of me?¡± Arabe asked.


    She could not believe this young boy. He was only doing so and saying they look good for some extra money.


    ¡°Well I am saying it out loud because of the money but it is true. If you weren¡¯t rich I would ask you toe to me as I would treat you very well¡± the boy said pulling up to the front of the house.


    Arabe could not help herself butugh. She was being courted by a high school student.


    Everly was worried. It was only Arabe¡¯s first day here and she was not back by this ungodly hour she took in the balcony watching for them. She was not afraid because she knew though Kieran had a stone-cold expression he would take care of her out of necessity. He did not need to like her to take care of her.


    She watched as the car pulled up into the front of the house and how the door of the back and driver¡¯s seat opened after a few seconds. She watched the stranger ginger-haired red boye down from the car too.


    She watched as Arabe spoke and gave him some cash and how he said a few words before proceeding to leave the house jogging down the path. She watched as Arabe put her head back into the driver¡¯s seat for a few moments before popping her head back out and signing.


    ¡°Did that boy get drunk again?¡± Everly said loudly.


    Her son rarely got drunk but when he did it was a show he always put on. She hurried down the stairs and came to him.


    ¡°Why are you back sote?¡± Everly said grabbing the attention of Arabe who stood confused about how to sessfully get this grown man inside.


    ¡°We had a wee dinner for me¡± Arabe answered.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Where is Kieran?¡± She asked.


    Arabe pointed to the sleeping boy in the back seat of the car. Everly sighed loudly. Her family would not be the end of her.


    ¡°Help me get him out,¡± She told her as she moved to the car. Both women struggled to bring him out of the car and he gave them a hard time.


    ¡°What of the car? Who would park it?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°I would ask my husband toe park it. Just help me get him to the couch and you can go to bed. You have had a long day and you have to get to work tomorrow too¡± Everly said as they pulled him with them into the house.


    ¡°Okay then,¡± Arabe said.


    They were soon on the couch and they dropped the drunk Kieran onto the couch. It seemed as if with each passing moment he got more drunk than before.


    ¡°Thank you so much, darling. Why don¡¯t you head to bed?¡± Everly said breathing out.


    She was too old to be logging around her grown son every time he drank. He should be more responsible and stop causing trouble for others.


    ¡°I would but can I get a ss of water?¡± Arabe asked.


    She had been exhausted from helping all the drivers move her colleagues and now carrying Kieran from the car into the house.


    ¡°Oh yes,e with me¡± Everly said as she led her to the kitchen.


    She could also use a ss of water as well. She felt like she had lifted a couple of weights a record number of times.


    ¡°How was your first day at work?¡± Everly asked curious.


    Maybe Arabe would give her the pleasure of a conversation that her family denied her all these years

 XV

    Arabe wanted to sleep but she saw the desperation in Everly¡¯s eyes. It looked like the same one that she saw daily in her mother¡¯s eyes. Her mother craved attention and it seemed the same with Everly.


    ¡°Well, it is nothing like what I am used to in Japan¡± Arabe starts taking one of the seats next to them.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Everly takes a seat too. ¡®Final some conversation since morning¡¯. When her husband used to work she knew he had to go out to work and she also went out to work and sometimes she met up with friends.


    When her husband retired, she did also and then ended up having to do a surgical operation on her back. Her husband became distant. Or maybe it was because they never truly spent time together.


    He barely spoke and stayed in his game room all day. Everly had to fight with him to at least get a word out of him. Her eyes sparkle under the night light switched on in the kitchen. While she waited patiently for her son and new daughter her husband yed games instead of staying up and keeping herpany.


    ¡°That¡¯s understandable¡± Everly said touching her hand fondly.


    ¡°Well, it seems my boss has a crush on Kieran,¡± Arabe told her.


    ¡°Ryder has a crush on Kieran?¡± Everly asked shocked.


    ¡°No not Ryder¡± Arabe replied.


    ¡°Oh, then Aurora?¡± Everly asked.


    Did Everly know all the people her son worked with?


    ¡°How do you know them?¡± Arabe asked shocked. The original matter of her being supposedly bullied is now buried in her mind.


    ¡°They used to be Kieran¡¯s college buddies. I was so d she was making friends so we always had them over for dinner. They were four¡­.¡± Everly said trailing off.


    ¡°Four?¡± Arabe asked.


    The method at which Everly trailed off it was obvious it was a juicy story. She would ask but not pry. It was her business to either tell her or not.


    ¡°So what did Aurora do?¡± Everly said openly changing the topic. It was clear that she did not want to talk about it and Arabe was going to respect her wishes.


    ¡°Well, one of my colleagues Chole thinks I¡¯m being bullied because I know Kieran¡± Arabe tells her.


    Everly gasp in shock. She thought the current generation would not do such things because they were modern. It sounded to her like something out of a nies movie.


    ¡°Girls still do things like that?¡± Everly asked out loud expressing her shock.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I thought too,¡± Arabe said giving out a yawn.


    ¡°So inconsiderate of me to keep you up till thiste when you have work tomorrow,¡± Everly said with a sad expression.


    She was enjoying thepany but she would feel terrible if Arabe can not have a good sleep at night.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you get to bed early so that you can have a good night¡¯s rest? also, Kieran told me you mixed up the time for resumption. Go with him tomorrow okay?¡± Everly said standing up and pulling Arabe too.


    Everly had a faint idea of the reason why Arabe had left in the morning but she was going to ignore those ideas and still try to make sure her new daughter wasfortable. Arabe nodded.


    There was no way she could escape it now. Her lie had been caught by both parties. She would ask Kieran to drop her a few blocks before the office and she would get to find her way there by herself.


    ¡°Good night Darling. Have a good night¡¯s rest¡± Everly said urging her to go.


    ¡°Good night Everly¡± Arabe said and started to leave. She stopped at the door and turned to face Everly who was looking at her fondly.


    ¡°What do you say about shopping and brunch on Saturday?¡±


    For the first time in a few years, Everly felt a warm feeling in her chest. Have a daughter they said. Maybe a daughter would truly prove to be better than a son to her.


    ¡°I would love to,¡± Everly said. She felt like crying but she decided she was not going to do so in front of Arabe.


    ¡°It¡¯s a date then,¡± Arabe said before turning to leave.


    Everly sat back down and she felt hot tears down her cheeks. Arabe had only been there for up to twenty-four hours plus but she was already making her feelfortable and warm.


    Everly sat in silence. She has never envied her friend. She has a nice house and her husband was still alive. Her son got to go to an Ivy League school but for the first time, Everly felt a jealous pang for Ava.


    Ava may not have had it all but she had such a considerate kind and beautiful daughter. Her son and husband thought that the only thing she would appreciate would be money.


    She barely got any interaction with people anymore and was slowly slipping into depression without them knowing about it. She has felt the sudden urge to run away and be by herself.


    The house was deafening with silence even with three grown-ups living together there. She had often tomes felt suffocated and needed an escape route which she never got. She felt like Arabe was a breath of fresh air that her life needed.


    ¡°What are you doing sitting there crying?¡± Ethan asked standing by the frame of the door.


    ¡°Crying? I am not crying¡± Everly said standing up and wiping her face.


    ¡°I just saw you wipe your face from tears,¡± Ethan said back.


    ¡°And I already said I was not crying,¡± Everly said adjusting the chairs around the kitchen table.


    ¡°Come bring Kieran¡¯s car to park it. We need to also take him up to his room. He had a little too much to drink¡± Everly said walking towards him.


    ¡°He drank again?¡± Ethan asked confused. He had warned his son against drinking toll the point that he passed out.


    ¡°Yes, he did,¡± Everly said with a huge smile on her face.


    ¡°Why is she smiling so much?¡± Ethan said murmuring as he went to bring his son¡¯s car to the garage.


    After a few minutes, Ethan came back in and shouted for Everly to help him move their so into his room. All the while Everly could not wipe the smile off her face.


    ¡°What is making you smile so much,¡± Ethan asked as they logged their sic foot plus son up the stairs to his room.


    ¡°I just received the best gift ever,¡± Everly said.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Ethan said. He saw her holding nothing how could she have received the best gift?


    ¡°I can¡¯t tell you¡± Everly said the smile never leaving her face.


    If she knew that sons would grow up to be so useless and daughters would grow up to be better than she imagines she would have tried with her husband while the love was still to have a daughter.


    ¡°It¡¯s always one nonsense or the other¡± Ethan murmured.

 XVI

    For the first time in years, Ethan¡¯s snarkyment did not put Everly off she was still smiling ear to ear. Ethan knew something was wrong. She would usually throw a fit and end up crying in the bathroom for a long time.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    When Ethan first retired he got into many arguments with his wife which made him almost regret his decision. A friend told him the reason his wife was sensitive was because she was entering menopause.


    Ethan read up on menopause and his wife¡¯s current state was close to most of the symptoms he saw there. She was usually sweet and kind but she turned to someone who was always finding a way toin about everything.


    They entered their room after dropping Kieran off in his room. Everly marked Saturday on her phone¡¯s calendar. She dropped the phone on the huge vanity table before going to remove her makeup and change into her nightdress.


    Ethan moved closer to where she dropped her phone. If he was being honest his wife¡¯s attitude that night did not make sense.


    He had a big argument with her and she had gone to wait for the kids on the balcony. A few hourster she was grinning from ear to ear like someone who had won the lottery for a grand prize.


    He slid open her phone and checked her recent apps. It was her calendar and she had blocked the whole Saturday morning afternoon and a part of the evening. What was she doing that Saturday?


    He was about to entertain the fact that she might be cheating. It is now quite easy to interconnect and rte with others on the. The number of dating sites and apps was rming. It was not impossible that she got to meet someone new and was going to have a date with him. He pondered on the thought for a while.


    He was about to check her browser history when she came out to meet him holding her phone in his hands. He looked up and he was like a deer caught in the headlights.


    ¡°I was going to check the date on the calendar for my live game event¡± he lied immediately.


    He knew her temper. Her temper had grown beyond control after they both retired and began to stay home together. She would re up on thongs she normally did allow when they were still both working.


    Sometimes he wanted to go back to work or just do anything to leave the house. This intense need led him to start gaming and which led to an addiction of some sort.


    ¡°Did I say anything?¡± Everly asked going to sit down on the chair of the vanity table. She began to put on her face cream and then her night cream.


    Ethan watched her closely. If she had anything to hide she would have been against him checking her phone but she was okay with it and continued with her normal night routine.


    ¡°Are you not going to wash up?¡± Every asked the confused man standing beside her.


    Aurora opened her eyes to see herselfying on her couch. The Way she got in her house andid down on the bed would remain a mystery. She stood up and felt her head racing.


    She knew it was a bad idea for her to stand up so abruptly. She sat for a little while trying to calm herself down so she doesn¡¯t get a serious headache.


    Her eyes went up to the wall clock and it was some minutes past five am. She knew that her co-workers would sleep in since they drankst night. She stood up and walked slowly towards the kitchen.


    She felt a bit dizzy and hungry. She knew that even if she was going to turn into bed without eating anything she would not be able to sleep well. She barely ate at dinner because she kept feeling green with jealousy.


    It had been okay when Kieran ignored her before but this was the first time she felt green with jealousy as such as this. Kieran was now focusing on another girl.


    ¡®Thest girl he gave his heart to¡­ ¡® she thought as her thought trailed off.


    She needed to find something to eat urgently before she went back to work. She would sleep a little more and go to the office around noon time.


    ¡°Why did you drink so much Aurora¡±, she said loudly opening up the refrigerator. An empty refrigerator stared back at her. She forgot that she had not gotten groceries for a while now.


    She barely had time to cook and since she was living alone she could eat out and have dinners out. Her job made her do so so she did not bother with getting good for cooking at home.


    She sighed as she checked her cupboard for instant noodles. She prayed inwardly as she opened up the cupboard. She would not be able to sleep well if she had nothing to eat. She has a pack of instant noodles left so she made it.


    She put on a reminder to alert her to get groceries when she finally gets to go out. She eats her meal while researching about her new love rival.


    Although Arabe had said clearly that she barely knew Kieran was it possible for two grown-up adults to live in the same house, seeing each other every day and getting meals together not to develop a rtionship?


    Even if it was going to be an ordinary friend it was impossible for them to have a tonic rtionship. Aurora decided to call her mom the next day. Her mom was an expert rtionship adviser and she would know what to do.


    Aurora was fed up with her mom¡¯s nagging about getting married before she became too old to do so so she moved out because she could not take it anymore.


    Aurora could not believe that she would be calling the same woman for advice on how to snatch Kieran¡¯s heart. Kieran had made it clear to her that he was uninterested in a romantic rtionship and one day he would settle with someone who shares the same views with him just so he can have a family.


    She was going to change that.

 XVII

    Arabe woke up a bitter than she usually did. She felt exhausted from the day before and the day before that. She traveled in and then immediately had to resume work.


    She partially med her mom for what happened to her. Her mom had insisted that she states back to attend her snobby cousin¡¯s wedding when she was barely interested in her.


    Arabe sat in her bed staring at the wall in front of her. ¡®It would be wrong of me to go on a break after spending only a day. It would give Aurora more reasons to bully me¡¯ Arabe thought inwardly.


    Her phone vibrated on the bedside stand she looked at the screen and it was her mom.


    ¡°Hello, Okaasan¡± Arabe said putting the phone to her ear.


    ¡°Hana, you left us and forgot about us,¡± Ava said in an using tone.


    ¡°Mother¡± Arabe cried out.


    She knew her mom and she was the best at manipting someone emotionally. She did it every time Arabe went to college and did not call her mother. She spoke with her mom when shended in Crescent Bay but did not call her mom the previous day.


    Things were hectic at the office and then she had the dinner that was supposed to be a wee for her thatter turned into a drinking contest between all of her colleagues.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you would and can go a whole day without talking to me who carried you in your womb for nine months,¡± Ava said.


    ¡°I miss you too Mom I have just not had enough time to adjust¡± Arabe responded.


    Her mom was one special being. She was worried about her daughter but did not know the right words and expressions to make herself and her daughter feel better.


    Ava was skeptical about sending her daughter abroad but after she left although she missed her she was d she allowed her to go. She would not have forgiven herself if her daughter missed out on doing all she wanted because her mother was afraid of what was outside in the world.


    ¡°How is Sera?¡± Arabe asked.


    She had chatted with Seraphina into the night the previous day but she knew that her sister was probably busy all day if not she would have called to know how her day went.


    ¡°She was suddenly called into work again during her leave because one of the celebrities caused a major scandal,¡± Ava says exining.


    ¡°Oh that¡¯s too bad guess I would not be able to get through to her until evening then¡±, Arabe said and her mother hummed in response.


    Arabe and Ava chatted a little more before Arabe told her mom that she needed to get to work. Ava was going to bed while Arabe was just preparing to go to bed.


    ¡°Goodbye, Mom¡± Arabe said as Everly stuck her head through the door.


    ¡°I knew you were an early riser so I came to tell you to sleep in. Whenever yourpany drinks like maniacs they stay back and go in to work by noon so you can rest more¡± Everly said.


    ¡°Oh my God that is such good news. Thank you, Everly¡±


    For the very first time in Arabe¡¯s life, she was grateful that she could get more sleep. Sheid back down.


    ¡°I would let you get more sleep. I would wake you up before Kieran would be ready to leave¡± Everly said closing the door as she left the room.


    Arabe snuggled under the covers and closed her eyes. Soon sleep and dream world engulfed her.


    A few hourster Arabe was sitting down at the sinking table for breakfast. Ethan was sitting at the head of the table while Everly walked multiple times from the kitchen to the dining room trying to set the table.


    Everly had insisted that Arabe does not help her with the table setting. Everly was overjoyed with Arabe and how she even offered to help with the table setting.


    Kieran walked in with the phone in hand and head hung over. It was like he was reading some thing important over it.


    ¡°Good morning¡± hr murmured not looking up but sitting beside his father on the head of the table. Everly had insisted that Arabe must be seated beside her.


    ¡°Good morning¡± Arabe replied.


    She was in a hurry to tell Kieran she would not be going with him but decided against bringing it up in front of his parents.


    ¡°We are having brunch because of your reckless drinking,¡± Everly said sitting down and dropping the te of pancakes in her hand to the table.


    ¡°Arabe did not drink,¡± Kieran said dropping his phone to the table.


    ¡°I am talking about you,¡± Everly said.


    ¡°Your mom and I had to drag you up the stairs yesterday,¡± Ethan said with a strong re.


    ¡°I am sorry,¡± Kieran said.


    To Arabe, Kieran saying sorry was so strange. Who would have thought that the strong and confident man at work was not that strong? It felt very strange to her that he said sorry so easily.


    ¡°Yeah, why don¡¯t you say point nk to us to keep shut?¡± Everly said.


    She knew her son very well. He only said sorry so they don¡¯t keep talking about the same thing all through breakfast.


    ¡°He said sorry why don¡¯t you drop it?¡± Ethan said. ¡°The pancakes would go cold while we wait for you two to work out your differences¡± he added.


    ¡°Am I no longer allowed to have opinions or say anything in this house anymore?¡± Everly said. The happiness and joy that overwhelmed her yesterday had been taken down a notch and now she was only left with thements of her husband once again.


    She was still excited about getting a date with her new daughter but that was not enough for her to get by with.


    ¡°Mom¡± Kieran breathes out slowly. ¡°He did not mean that¡± he added.


    Arabe was getting ufortable at this point she wanted to stand and leave as it seemed like a family intimate moment.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just have the meal,¡± Kieran said before Arabe could make her mind up if she wanted to stand up or not.


    ¡°Let¡¯s say a prayer,¡± Everly says going to hold the hands of Arabe. They say a prayer and everyone goes digging in.


    ¡°Thank you for the meal,¡± Arabe said before reaching to take a pancake.


    ¡°It would not kill you two to also thank me for the new too,¡± Everly said.


    ¡°You did not even make this,¡± Ethan says putting a chunk of pancake to his mouth.


    ¡°Mom dad please¡± Kieran said.


    He has had to separate his parents argument many times than usual in these past few months. It was getting exhausting and to think they are still fighting in the presence of the new girl.


    ¡°Okay fine¡± Everly said choosing to finish her meal in silence.

 XVIII

    The test of breakfast was quiet. Kieran and Arabe left as Everly pushed them out to get going. Everly could never understand Gen Z start-ups. They went drinking and then everyone had to resume by noon the next day.


    She knew that most of them would probably still be hung over. Her son had a high tolerance for alcohol and yet he was still so hung over. She wondered how it would be for those of them with extremely low tolerance.


    ¡°Get in the car. I forgot something and I need to get it¡± Kieran said opening the car with the remote in his hands.


    Arabe watched as Kieran walked back into the house. She stood beside the door waiting for him. A few momentster he was striding back out looking good. She was not interested in him but it would be a lie if she did not admit his beauty.


    ¡°I told you to get in the car,¡± he said when he saw him standing outside.


    ¡°I have something to tell you,¡± she said before he could step into the car.


    ¡°And you would tell me while I drive. We are runningte¡± Kieran said entering the car from the driver seat and closing the door.


    Arabe contemted for a split second before she enters the car. She sits and pits on her seat belt. He starts the car and begins to drive.


    Was it because he was older? Arabe knew that if it was her age range who had this great property and opportunity he would have been proud and spoke nonstop about it whole trying all he could do to make the other party feel miserable.


    Kieran gave off afortable familiar and mature vibe and Arabe could feel it. He was not petty or inconsiderate. He had helped her the previous day to avert a crisis of her embarrassing herself by drinking.


    ¡°You wanted to say something?¡± Kieran asked as the car skidded to the main road.


    ¡°Umm¡­.. yeah¡± Arabe started ufortably. She had been so confident about telling him that she would not be going with him and that they should avoid each other at work. Right now her confidence dropped to zero as she could not know the way she would say it.


    ¡°I am all ears,¡± Kieran said decreasing the volume of the radio which served as a background noise.


    ¡°Well, ermmm¡­¡±


    ¡°Do you want to ask me for a favor?¡± he asked confused at her attitude.


    ¡°I thought it would be easier to say¡± Arabe confessed with a smallugh. Theugh was to put her at ease. She did not want to seem delusional in his eyes. He may tell her that it was all in her head.


    ¡°I think Aurora is picking on me because I know you¡± Arabe finally said.


    ¡°Why would you think that?¡±


    ¡°Because it¡¯s obvious she likes you and also Chole clearly said she was picking on me¡± Arabe answered.


    ¡°Okay then, but why are you telling me this?¡± Kieran asked. If she was getting picked on was she expecting him to defend her?


    ¡°Well I think I might need to go to work myself and if you could act as if you do not know me at work I am sure she would stop sooner orter.


    Kieran had expected that she would ask for help or support but instead, she was going to face it herself.


    ¡®She is different


    It feels cliche to say a woman was different but Kieran knew she was different. Right from when she was younger. She always did things differently.


    While other girls fought at school to be popr and get into rtionships she always had her nose stuck in a book while she walked down the hallway. Whenever he needed to be a part of the dinners he always watched as she was scolded for staying glued to books.


    It only made sense to him for her to ask for help. After all, he was her superior and could help get if she was indeed getting bullied for being acquainted with him.


    All she needed from him was his distance. Did she not know about work politics? Was she uninterested in climbing the wings of someone high up that she knew to get to better ces? He could barely wrap his mind around the situation.


    ¡°So you want me to avoid picking you up in my car and also avoid talking to you at the office?¡± he asked to rify. It was possible he heard wrong and was holding her up high in esteem.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she said not stuttering in her words and without a second thought.


    ¡°Are you sure of what you are asking of me?¡± he asked her. He was confused as to why that was her request.


    He was right in front of her but she would refuse to use him and climb up herself instead.


    ¡°Would you not like to save the few extra bucks instead of using it on cabs? The buses do not run to the part of town we live¡± he asked.


    To be honest, going with him to save a few extra bucks would be a great addition for her. She could send the money to her mom or add it to her savings for her apartment. She knew it would be quite impossible for her to move to her apartment but she was going to fight tooth and nail for it.


    ¡°I could use the few extra bucks but I would pass¡± she replied. She had to stick to her decision to the end. ¡°So could you tell your mom that I have to go earlier so that she can let me go and not wait for you¡± she added.


    She had nned an escape but Everly had caught her and kept her home until Kieran was ready to go.


    ¡°I can not tell her that,¡± Kieran said.


    Arabe did not want to give in to his pressure. There was no way she was going to tell Everly the reason she did not want a ride from his son. She would only worry about it and she would not be able to do anything about it.


    ¡°She would worry when I tell her the reason¡± Kieran added.


    ¡°Must you tell her the reason?¡± Arabe asked shocked she had to exin such to him.


    ¡°What then do you expect me to say when she asks me?¡± he asked.

 XIX

    Arabe could not believe that he was asking her that. Was he a child? He could lie or evade the question. She wanted to tell him her thoughts but then realized how wrong they sounded when she tried to say them out.


    ¡°What?¡± he asked her. ¡°I can¡¯t do that¡± he added turning to the road that leads to their office.


    ¡°My mom had been happier these two days you have been around than the past six months. I don¡¯t know what it is but it seems like she is slipping into depression and ain¡¯t talking to my dad or me about it. We are very worried. If you make her happy then I would do everything in my power to make it stay the same¡± he said.


    He had noticed his mom¡¯s withdrawal from things she did normally and her constant bickering with his dad. He had noticed the way she went silent from her constant talking previously.


    Arabe was too stunned to speak. She concluded that Kieran was a boy who had his heart ripped out and could not observe his surroundings. On the contrary, he was able to analyze his mother and know what she needed. She neededpany and some kind of peace thates along with her feeling important.


    Arabe had spent just two days with them and she had noticed her. Everly who she remembered from her childhood was like the color yellow. She was jovial and always happy. Although Everly tried to keep up the facade anyone who knew her before could see right through her.


    ¡°What if I leave with you in the morning and then you just me off somewhere nearby? I do not want anyone in the office to know that we areing together¡± she said after considering.


    She turned to see that they were nearing the office and he was not giving her any response.


    ¡°STOP¡± she screamed which made him step on the brakes and bring the car to a screeching halt just in time.


    ¡°WHAT?¡± he screamed back when he stopped and looked to the road. He thought she screamed because she saw something and he was about to hit it but the road in front of him was clear.


    It was a relief that a car was not following behind if not it would have been a serious ident.


    ¡°I am sorry I had to scream,¡± she said taking off her seat belt. ¡°I could not allow you to get to the office without us concluding what we would be doing,¡± she said.


    ¡°You are bold and troublesome for no reason,¡± Kieran said and started the car.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°So?¡± Arabe responded her voice confident and daring.


    ¡°Arabe I want you to understand that if anything happens to you. My mom would kill me and I do not care about Aurora. I am sure once you do well at your job then you would get off her bullying list.¡± he said turning to the car park of the office.


    ¡°What do you know about workce bullying?¡± Arabe asked biting on her fingernails.


    ¡°You are a good worker and that¡¯s why we hired you. I am sure you can make her forget about her prejudice soon enough¡±


    ¡°Hello Ava,¡± Everly said over the phone.


    Ava had called her. She was worried about her daughter and how she was adapting. Arabe had always been a peculiar girl and which made it harder for Ava to easily let go of her.


    ¡°Hello Everly,¡± Ava said.


    Ava and Everly were a wonderful bunch of women. After they lost contact at high school and then regained contact when they were married they showed great friendship skills.


    They maintained over fourteen years of rtionship with them not seeing at all.


    ¡°When are you going toe visit me?¡± Everly asked.


    She had been trying for fourteen to bring Ava back but Ava persisted and got what she wanted.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t youe over to Japan for the holidays? After all, you are retired,¡± Ava countered.


    Ava knew that Everly was just trying to get her back to Crescent Bay. Fourteen yearster and Ava was not ready to move on. She would have been happy if her daughter got a job in any other part of the world asides from that city.


    The only good thing about the city was that Everly was in there and could help her out with keeping watch over her child.


    ¡°I woulde over this year,¡± Everly said.


    Since Ava moved they have had this conversation multiple times. Everly had tried to bring Ava back and Ava had tried to bring Everly over to experience the richness and thickness of the Japanese culture.


    ¡°Arabe ising to bing home in November. Her cousin is getting married and there is a national holiday too. She can spend it with us¡± Ava said over the phone.


    ¡°You can join her. We would be happy to host you¡± she added.


    ¡°I woulde this year. For real¡± Everly said.


    It could be a good distraction from her life which she thinks is falling into pieces and also a great vacation for her. Since she left work she had not taken any time off. She was always picking up after her husband and dotting over her son and it got her nowhere.


    ¡°I would be happy to have you,¡± Ava said excitedly. She had not seen her friend in a long while and having her friend over would make her happier.


    ¡°How is Arabe adapting?¡± Ava asked.


    ¡°I knew you did not call to know how I am doing,¡± Everly said in an using voice. She could understand Ava and why she was worried.


    ¡°Don¡¯t hit trust me anymore? I am more than capable to take care of Arabe¡± Everly responded. ¡°Take care of yourself now. You don¡¯t have to rear your kids again¡± she added.


    ¡°But¡­¡± Ava started before she was cut off by Everly.


    ¡°Or do you want toe over and take care of her yourself?¡± Everly said.


    ¡°Okay then. I trust she is doing well¡± Ava said.


    Both womenughed before going on to talk some more on the phone.

 XX

    ¡°What took you so long?¡± Chole asked going to pull Arabe¡¯s hand when she made her way into the office.


    Chole¡¯s eyes caught Kieraning behind and she pulled Arabe faster into the coffee room.


    ¡°Did youe with Kieran?¡± Chole whispered in a shout as she closed the door to the room.


    Arabe bit her upper lip till it hurt a little. How could she tell Chole that she still came to Kieran despite the situation with Aurora? She nodded her head gently and Chole sighed loudly running her hand through her head.


    Everyone knew Aurora to be a sweet and loving person but Chole saw that she was going to bully Arabe for knowing Kieran.


    ¡°Why?¡± Chole said her voice strained.


    ¡°I tried to exin to him why I needed to go on my own but he was adamant about taking me to the office¡± Arabe exined.


    ¡°Did you guys date before?¡± Chole said in the mood for gossip.


    ¡°How can you say that?¡± Arabe said her hand going up to her mouth to cover it before she can go any further.


    ¡°That is the only exnation that makes sense that I cane up with. He decided to take you to work because there are lingering feelings that are yet to be resolved¡± Chole said dreamily.


    She would kill for gossip as that. She has been working here for almost two years and no one was close to having an office romance. Aurora who had been going after Kieran had proven unsessful time and time again.


    ¡°How could we have ever dated?¡± Arabe asked resting her back to the counter.


    ¡°He is ten years older than me and thest time I saw him I was ten years old and he was leaving for the university. Fast forward to fourteen yearster, we meet again¡± she added.


    Maybe if Arabe had known that she would be thrown into a serious work misunderstanding such as this one she would have stayed back with her mom and taken up a job there. She decided to move far away because she felt suffocated and choked with all the family hovering and giving their advice even when it wasn¡¯t asked for.


    The door to the coffee room opens and Aurora stands there. Her eyes dart all over the room beforending on Arabe. She gives her one look up and down.


    ¡°Is this a time to hide out in the coffee room and gossip?¡± Aurora said.


    The friendliness in her voice yesterday was lost and Aurora could feel the indifference.


    ¡°I came to get coffee and so did Arabe¡± Chole said to rescue herself.


    ¡°Meeting in ten minutes my office,¡± Aurora said before closing the door and walking away.


    ¡°Why so tense today?¡± Chole said walking to the coffee station to make three cups of instant coffee.


    ¡°That was close. What if she heard us talking about Kieran?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°Do not worry about a thing. I am sure that all would be good in the end¡± Chole answered mixing the coffee.


    ¡°I hope so¡±


    ¡°Were you able to finish reading the manuscript I gave you yesterday?¡± Aurora asked as they entered the room.


    ¡°Here it is. I have marked the ces I think need improvement and correction but only with your approval. I believe this to be a good time for me to learn how to sessfully edit a book.


    Arabe did not need an external person or force to teach her how to properly edit. She had built those skills by herself. When others yed she buried her nose inside novels and then she graduated to self-help books. She was in the newspaper and journalist association all through high school and college.


    Aurora scrolled briefly between the bookmarked pages. Her eyes caught multiple ces where she had also bookmarked when she was reading through the manuscript.


    There was no way that Aurora would openly validate Arabe it would mean she did not have a reason to bully her. If anyone asks she would me it on the tradition within publishing houses and only call it hazing. She was only bullying her to make it strong.


    One could not even ssify it as bullying. She was only making her do extra work which would in turn increase the sales of thepany. She was going to be a dedicated staff and did her duties.


    The inte on Aurora¡¯s table buzzed she picked it up and Ryder¡¯s voice burst through. Unlikely his voice that could be likened to a burst of colors this time it was faced with tiredness and a tint of hangover.


    ¡°We have a meeting now, gather everyone to the meeting room,¡± Ryder said ending his statement with a groan. ¡®Why did he drink on a weekday? He was too old to be doing such.¡¯ he thought as he put down the receiver.


    ¡°He is such a sucker for meetings,¡± Aurora said standing up.


    ¡°We had a meeting and we have to have another one today? ¡± she murmured in a question. She turned to get her coat and turned to see Chole and Arabe still standing other unmoved.


    ¡°Why are you still standing there?¡± She asked putting on her jacket. ¡°Go and get everyone ready for the meeting,¡± she said dismissing them.


    ¡°Arabe prepares the coffee and snacks,¡± Aurora said as Chole¡¯s hand for to the door.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Me? ¡± Arabe asked shocked. Wasn¡¯t she now making it ring that she was bullying her.?


    ¡°Should Ie do it?¡± Aurora asked cing her hand over her chest as if she was shocked at her question.


    ¡°No,¡± Arabe said.¡± I would do it¡± she added.


    Did it make sense that the editor would make the coffee and snacks for an impromptu meeting? Aurora was well aware that Arabe couldn¡¯t possibly know everyone¡¯s preference. Was she trying to put her in a tight spot with everyone in the office?


    ¡°Chole¡± Arabe muttered gently as they came out of the office.


    ¡°Of course, you don¡¯t need to ask me. I would help you¡±Chole responded taking her hand and pulling her back to the coffee room they had left just a few minutes ago.


    ¡°I have to say. She is making it ring she doesn¡¯t like you¡± Chole confessed.


    ¡°I wonder what I did?¡±

 XXI

    Chole had helped Arabe get the right snacks for everyone and set the table. They were still arranging the room when everyone started filing in.


    ¡°There you are cutie,¡± Aaron said his tooth shining through.


    ¡°Stop it you yboy,¡± Mia said pushing Aaron in as he was blocking the door frame.


    ¡°yboy? Why would you say that and give Arabe the wrong impression of me?¡± Aaron yelled.


    ¡°Because you are a yboy. You even flirt with the authors too¡± Mia answered.


    Aaron rushed towards Arabe who stood still as she watched the interaction. It was a sight to behold.


    ¡°Arabe do not mind whatever she says she is just jealous that I didn¡¯t ask her out,¡± Aaron said winking at her.


    ¡°Stop it you yboy,¡± Olivia said as she entered carrying a bunch of documents


    ¡°Is she also jealous because you didn¡¯t ask her out?¡± Mia snickered at Aaron.


    ¡°I have no idea why the two of you are against my love life¡± Aaron groaned and went back to take her seat.


    ¡°Your love life¡± Olivia scoffed sorting through the documents where she had taken her seat. ¡°You are just a boy who wishes to date everyone you can before you finally get old¡± she added.


    When Aaron had started working with them ast year he had taken the liberty of asking Aurora out. She in turn exposed him in the general meeting only for them all to notice he was asking them all out including thest editor who quit.


    ¡°Arabe for your mental health and safety I would advise you don¡¯t listen to a word he says,¡± Mia said.


    ¡°He is full of lies¡± Noah added as he entered.


    ¡°You too? Aren¡¯t you supposed to support me as a brother?¡± Aaron asked going to take his seat.


    He had wanted to make a move on Arabe after all she was cute enough to be proud of. He could take her to his school reunioning up at the end of the month and brag about how hended a nice and pretty girl.


    ¡°Because we all know you and you are not one we would want her to fall victim to,¡± Noah said sitting down too Henry entered the room silently and came to sit down.


    ¡°Okay, then shall we begin the meeting?¡± Ryder said as he entered and sat down.


    ¡°Where are they?¡± Ryder asked as he noticed that both Aurora and Kieran¡¯s spot was empty.


    ¡°I think they should be on their way,¡± Chole said in her seat.


    ¡°Arabe be a darling and tell them to hasten up. We are waiting for them¡± Ryder said.


    ¡°Why are you sending her? Aurora would only bully her¡± Mia said.


    She had been the one to defend her colleagues whenever they were wronged and she noticed Aurora¡¯s subtle hostility towards her since she arrived yesterday.


    ¡°Then should I go myself?¡± Ryder asked thrown back by Mia¡¯sment.


    ¡°Of course. Don¡¯t you preach and promote a work environment where everyone is equal?¡± Mia asked batting her eyshes.


    Ryder seems to be put in a tough spot. He did promote the equal work space but how could they be sending him on errands now?


    Ryder sighed in a frustrated tone before pulling his phone out of his pocket. He dialed the numbers of Kieran and Aurora in a voice call and put it on loudspeakers.


    ¡°You jerks¡± he screamed as soon as the line got connected.


    ¡°Why are you calling me that?¡± Aurora said in a whiny tone.


    ¡°Is it until I have toe get you from your offices? Or should I use a carriage to bring you to the meeting room?¡± Ryder asked.


    ¡°On my way already,¡± Kieran said before cutting off his own side of the line.


    ¡°That rude jerk¡± Rydermented lowly.


    ¡°I am noting,¡± Aurora said before cutting her side of the line too.


    ¡°Why did I ever agree to do business with these nutcases?¡± Ryder remarked loudly.


    The door opened and Kieran walked in striding slowly to sit down.


    ¡°Don¡¯t sit Don¡¯t sit¡± Ryder said as Kieran tried to sit down.


    ¡°What?¡± Kieran asked checking the chair behind him maybe something might have stained the chair.


    ¡°Go get Aurora,¡± He said when Kieran stood up straight.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Me?¡± Kieran asked putting his hand to his chest.


    ¡°Then should I do it?¡± Ryder asked.


    ¡°If you want to,¡± Kieran said sitting down.


    ¡°Without Aurora, we can¡¯t go ahead with this meeting and whenever she acts up like this it¡¯s usually because of you,¡± Ryder said.


    Kieran did not like the sound of what Ryder had just said so he frowned deeply at him.


    ¡°That frown would not change anything about the situation. We have to have a meeting and I am a hundred and one percent sure that Aurora is sulking because of something you did¡± he added.


    ¡°I did nothing so somebody else can go get her,¡± Kieran said resting her back and head and then closing his eyes.


    ¡°How many people believe that Kieran is the best to go get Aurora?¡± Ryder asked.


    Kieran¡¯s eyes shot open to see the vote and everyone¡¯s hand apart from Arabe was up.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Chole whispered forcing Arabe¡¯s hand up.


    Kieran felt a string of betrayal when Arabe¡¯s hand went up. She on the other hand was unaware of what was going on. She did not understand and only put up her hand because Chole said so.


    ¡°See that? This is office democracy and we all think you should get her¡±


    Kieran stood up and sighed to himself. He wondered how he got himself into this mess. Aurora had acted up like this quite a few times. She used the office workers to get herself dates with him and he knew that would be the oue once again.


    Whenever she needed something from him she sulked during their meeting and he was always sent to get her. She made a deal each time because Kieran hated to pal with his work and she knew that fact.


    He knocked on her office door and took a deep breath and entered the office. He saw her in her jacket and bag strapped over her shoulders but she was sitting in her chair.


    ¡°Why must you do this every time?¡±

 XXII

    ¡°Why must you do this every time?¡± Kieran said his voice low and steady.


    Even though Aurora could sense his anger she still thought he was hot at that moment.


    ¡°What are you using me of?¡± she asked feigning ignorance.


    She had him where she needed him to be all she needed to do was to make her request and it would surely be answered.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you aware of the meeting?¡± Kieran asked trying to stay as calm as possible.


    ¡°I am¡± Aurora responded standing up.


    ¡°Then why do I have toe get you? Ryder called you too. Then why do I have toe from the meeting room to get you?¡± Kieran asked his anger showing through.


    For the first time ever Aurora was afraid of the way Kieran was talking.


    ¡°You did not have toe get me¡± Aurora responded.


    ¡°Then why am I here?¡± Kieran asked mming his hand to the table.


    ¡°Oh geez calm down,¡± Aurora said when she saw his actions. ¡°I just had to talk to you. I know that you won¡¯t see me when I ask you to and this is the only way I can get to talk to you¡± she confessed.


    ¡°What do you have to say?¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Can we meet up after the day¡¯s work and have a chat?¡± she asked sincerely ¡°I have something to say¡± she added.


    ¡°Fine let¡¯s go for the meeting then,¡± Kieran said now calmer than before.


    Aurora stood and dropped back her bag and coat and followed him out.


    ¡°The princess and her shining knight¡± Ryder joked when they entered.


    ¡°Can we just get to the meeting?¡± Kieran said his anger still shining through.


    ¡°Okay then,¡± Kieran said shifting ufortably in his chair. The entire room fell into awkward silence. It was obvious that Kieran was pissed and Aurora was not showing any emotions.


    ¡°I got a call from Michelle Michigan,¡± Ryder said breaking the news to them.


    Michelle Michigan was a popr novelist who they have been trying to sign in their publishing house. Once the young authors hear that they have signed Michelle they woulde running to their publishing house too.


    ¡°Michelle Michigan?¡± Arabe asked in shock. ¡°The Michelle Michigan?¡± she asked excitementced in her voice. She was one of her best authors of all time.


    ¡°Yes, the Michelle Michigan¡± Ryder said matching her energy.


    Everyone now had excited smiles on their faces. It was a shock that they might have the opportunity to work with her. The famous and well-written author of their generation.


    Amongst all of them it was only Kieran who did not carry a smile on his face because he did not know and neither did her want to know who Michelle was. He went into the business because of money, not because of his love of books like the rest of them.


    ¡°Okay, so what did she say?¡± Mia asked ready to hear that Michelle would finallye to their publishing house.


    ¡°She wants toe over tomorrow and have a tour of our office before she decides to sign I¡¯m with us,¡± Ryder said in a shout of excitement.


    It was hard to keep his excitement in. When he decided to start this business he never thought of the probability of signing a big author like Michelle, all he wanted was to publish good books, novels, and children¡¯s stories.


    ¡°Tomorrow?¡± Noah asked. ¡°Isn¡¯t it quite short notice?¡± he added.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Her schedule is booked with a lot of book signing events and she could only squeeze out sometime tomorrow. Her contract with her former publishers expires soon and she wouldn¡¯t be in the country by the time it expires so she would be signing with us before she travels¡± Ryder exined.


    ¡°That being said Chole and Arabe, I trust you would take good care of her¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Arabe asked in shock. Was it possible that she would be given such an important task during her first few days of work?


    ¡°Yes you and me¡± Chole answered overjoyed.


    ¡°That being said can we all get here early and get everything you might want to pitch to her ready beforehand,¡± Ryder said standing up.


    ¡°Arabe and Chole, I am sure you would do a good job¡± Ryder added.


    ¡°I would do my best,¡± Arabe said standing up too. It felt surreal to her that she would be meeting Michelle Michigan just a few days after shended in Crescent Bay. If she knew she had such great luck she would have yed the lottery and won a load truck of money.


    ¡°We are all counting on you,¡± Kieran said standing up too.


    ¡°Meeting dismissed. We can all leave for the day so we can get everything we need before tomorrow¡± Ryder said walking out.


    ¡°Yes, Michelle Michigan,¡± Aaron said standing too.


    ¡°I do hope you aren¡¯t nning to make a move on her?¡± Mia asked standing to face him.


    ¡°What do you mean? She is ady in her forties¡± Aaron said as he shuddered.


    ¡°I thought you liked olderdies? You went after Aurora too¡± Olivia added.


    They all nced at Aurora who neither said nor made any reaction throughout the meeting. Aurora was thinking deeply about Kieran¡¯s reaction. Kieran had never reacted and acted out his anger in such a way before.


    No matter how angry he was at her he never mmed his fist on the desk or yelled at her. Everything changed when Arabe mysteriously arrived there. Now what was to be her job of weing and taking care of Michelle was given to Arabe instead of her.


    ¡°Arrghh¡± Aurora screamed out and shook her head violently before standing up and facing Arabe.


    ¡°You better do well or else?¡± she said then gesturing as if she was using a knife to silt her throat.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that a threat, Aurora?¡± Mia said loudly.


    ¡°It¡¯s a warning,¡± Aurora said sweetly before leaving the room with the great of the staff in it.


    ¡°Do you know her before?¡± Mia asked concerned.


    ¡°No, I do not. I met her here for the first time¡± Arabe said her mind thinking back to their first encounter. Maybe she said or did something.


    ¡°She knows Kieran before now,¡± Chole said informing the great of the people.


    ¡°Ohh that¡¯s why,¡± Mia said her hands crossed over her chest. ¡°It¡¯s not a justified reason for her to do that anyways¡± she added.


    ¡°Just do well tomorrow and I¡¯m sure she would warm up to you¡± Olivia added before standing up to leave.


    Arabe left the room and stood over her cubicle. She would leave for the day and go prepare everything she needed for tomorrow. She has a lot to prepare.


    ¡°Arabe¡± Kieran said standing before her.


    ¡°Yes sir,¡± she saidpulsively before connecting herself ¡°Yes Kieran¡±


    ¡°Wait a few minutes. I need to talk to Aurora and then we can go¡± he said.


    ¡°Oh no I think I should leave by myself¡± Arabe responded.


    This was a good opportunity for her to escape the office stress and Aurora.


    ¡°It would only be a few minutes,¡± Kieran said his voicemanding.


    ¡°Oh do not worry I would get home myself. I have a lot to do in preparation for tomorrow¡± Arabe said before turning to leave. There was no way she would allow herself to be humiliated by Aurora.

 XXIII

    Kieran entered Aurora¡¯s office where she was tidying up to leave for the day.


    ¡°Can we talk now?¡± Kieran said taking his seat on one of the couches in her office.


    ¡°Here? I was thinking we could catch lunch and talk there¡± Aurora said.


    Kieran frowned. Was she trying to force him to have lunch with her? He had no choice but to hear her out. She has done so many things in the past. She has called him out when she was drunk and even made a huge scene too.


    ¡°Do you have a ce in mind?¡± Kieran asked giving up.


    ¡°Oh yes, I did not bring my car so we can take yours,¡± Aurora said going out the door and pulling him too.


    Arabe was standing at the curb of the office building when Kieran drove past her with Aurora in the front seat. Arabe thanked her stars that she did not listen to Kieran. If she had waited for him then she would have to be in the car with the two of them.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Chole said linking her hands with Arabe¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Oh okay,¡± Arabe said removing her gaze from the car that was going and almost long gone from them.


    ¡°I am so excited to be the one taking care of Michelle,¡± Chole said with a squeal.


    She had been beaming since she got the news. It was impossible for her to calm down. She even burst into fits of happyughs at instances too.


    ¡°Me too,¡± Arabe said rubbing her palm lightly.


    ¡°What do you think we should get her?¡± Chole asked.


    ¡°I have been following her for a long while and I know her favorite meal ces to visit in Crescent Bay. I n to call the owner and order something nice for them¡± Arabe said happily. She was ted.


    ¡°What can I get you?¡± the waiter who would be waiting at the table where Kieran and Aurora were seated.


    ¡°Give us your special¡± Kieran said before Aurora could get a word out to start ordering the whole menu.


    ¡°Okay, maybe bring you bread or chips?¡± the waiter asked.


    ¡°Anything that pairs well with your special¡± Kieran said dismissing him.


    ¡°So you want to tell me something?¡± Kieran asked leaning back into the chair and crossing his hands over his chest.


    Maybe tonight would be the tonight he turns down Aurora finally. If she went ahead to confess her feelings to him. She had made it obvious over the years that she liked him but he never had her any attention since he did not want her.


    She chuckled and took a sip of her water before cleaning her hand on her napkin multiple times. Now that she was about to talk she felt nervous.


    ¡°Kieran, why don¡¯t we get married?¡± she asked forcefully. She could not believe it. She just asked him to marry her.


    ¡°Married? Get married?¡± Kieran saidughing out loud. He barelyughed but this must be one of those rare things that make oneugh.


    ¡°Get married me and you? You must be kidding¡±


    ¡°Come on it makes sense that we end up together. Why not just do it earlier?¡± Aurora asked.


    She did not know what came over her but asking Kieran to marry her when he had said no to all her lettering seemed logical to her.


    ¡°How does it make sense that we end up together? What is the reason for your conclusion?¡± Kieran asked his eyebrows going up in curiosity.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    No matter how he thought about it there was no reason for them to be together. Maybe hearing her logic would make him see some sense in what she was saying and not call her crazy.


    ¡°We have known each other for the longest time. Our friends expect us to be together and I have liked you for the longest time too. I know that you would eventually cave in and we would be together. So why wait?¡± Aurora asked.


    Her self-confidence was skyrocketed. She felt confident. Her reasons were reasons why young people get together. She has been friends with Kieran for fourteen years and had liked him that long too. Everyone rooted for them and they looked standing next to each other. They didplement each other.


    Kieran found himself chuckling silently. He thought not tough so as not to offend her but no matter how he thought about her words they made no sense and they would not make any sense in any universe either.


    ¡°What¡¯s funny?¡± Aurora asked now ufortable. Her former esteem that had risen and blown off the roofs was now slowlying down.


    She has expected anything except theugh. She knew Kieran was distant but he had proven time and time again that he was considerate. Hisugh was not sitting well with her.


    ¡°If that¡¯s the way the marriage of a thing works then I guess I have to settle down with Arabe or Arabe¡¯s sister. They are the girls I have known for the longest time¡± Kieran said.


    At the sound of Arabe¡¯s name Aurora froze and felt her blood rising. The reason she decided against waiting for Kieran after waiting all these years was because of her. Somehow she managed to find her way into their conversation too.


    How did she just appear out of nowhere and begin to scatter her ns for a long time? How did she even begin to shake Kieran up? Kieran had always been against others in his car but he was dly offering her a free ride to and fro.


    Aurora would have been least bothered if Arabe was not that beautiful but she was a sight to behold. There was barely anybody who would not do a double take when they first meet.


    ¡°And I do not n to live my life ording to what my friends expect of me,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°But¡­¡± Aurora began.


    ¡°Is this the reason you brought me out today?¡± Kieran asked sitting up.


    Aurora scratched her head and looked away. She felt guilty and embarrassed. She did more to get what she wanted and now she was feeling self-conscious. Kieran stood up when he confirmed the reason she had brought him out.


    ¡°Kimberly isn¡¯ting back¡±

 XXIV

    The name Kimberly was enough to get Kieran back to his seat. Why would Aurora go as far as mentioning her name?


    ¡°Why would you mention her name?¡± Kieran asked with gritted teeth.


    ¡°Because it seemed the reason you have refused to go on with me is because you are still waiting for her,¡± Aurora said.


    Kimberly, Aurora, Ryder, and Kieran had been a famous group in school. Kieran and Kimberly started a rtionship. They wereter termed the campus couple and got separated very painfully.


    The incident had left Kieran with a huge scar and he never wanted to let anyone in again. He knew that he would eventually have to get married because his mom would not leave him alone if he doesn¡¯t but he wanted to push it as far back as he could. He had been pretty hurt badly by Kim.


    They nned a life and future together. Everything about their rtionship was perfect until Kim dropped the let us break up line on him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you ever think you can ckmail me into marrying you¡± Kieran whispered harshly.


    Aurora felt her forehead creasing and her smile turning into a frown. She felt deeply insulted but couldn¡¯t bring it out in words. She also felt like what she was doing was ckmailing.


    ¡°Do not ever think of mentioning Kimberly again. She is as good as dead to me¡± he continued in his harsh whisper.


    He had not let go of the pain and it was so obvious. He was still hurting that the sound of her name made him feel worthless. Was he not good enough for her? Was he not trying enough? What was her reason for cutting him off? The fact that she never defended herself or gave a reason made Kieran hate her the more.


    ¡°I am sorry,¡± Aurora said when she saw the hard expression on his face.


    ¡°And also, I would be getting married in the distant future but not to you¡± Kieran added.


    Aurora felt her heart drop. He did think about marriage but not to her. She was the one there for him when Kimberly did that to him. She was the one whoforted him. It was sad to think that he never for once saw her as a liable partner for himself.


    ¡°So don¡¯t do this again¡± he added and then stood up. He walked a little to the entrance before turning back to the table they just sat.


    When Aurora saw hime back she wanted to feel ted that he wasing back. Was it possible for him to have a change of heart in a few seconds?


    ¡°I would pick up the check so just have dinner here and then find your way home,¡± he said and then turned back to leave.


    Aurora watched as Kieran walked back to the door. She had never been so seriously turned down before. Although she had not proposed before. It was all Arabe¡¯s fault. She was going to pay for it


    ¡°Is it because of Arabe?¡± she screamed after him standing up.


    Kieran stopped in his track and turned back to face her. Both of them stared at each other dead in the eyes.


    ¡°You are being extremely weird,¡± Kieran said looking back at her.


    ¡°Bullying her too is a different kind of low. I would not sit back and watch you bully her into quitting her job as you did for Mary¡± he added.


    Aurora felt her blood boil. Who did he think he was? Turned her down multiple times after he had been there for him and then now has the guts to defend another woman in his presence.


    ¡°All I ever did was show you my love¡± Aurora responds.


    She can feel her heartbreak and her chest constricts as she watched him turn back and walk out. She sits back and screams out loud startling the other customers in the restaurant.


    She puts her hand through her hair angrily and bangs her fist against the table. She hears whispers of the other customers calling her a psycho. She has been loud enough that anyone could tell what conversation she had with Kieran.


    The waiter cautiously walks toward her and stands before her. He rubs his hand over his outfit nervously before mastering the courage to talk.


    ¡°I am sorry ma¡¯am please can you keep your voice down? You are creating an inconvenience for the other customers here¡± the young boy said slowly.


    Aurora raised her head to meet the eyes of the waiter. She has never felt so embarrassed and insulted in her life and this was all because of Arabe.


    The only reason she jumped the gun and went ahead to propose to Kieran was because of Arabe. He even defended her. Her luck in life was not looking up at all.


    ¡°You guys can have the food that he paid for. I am out of here¡± she screamed as she stood up.


    She stood outside on the tform. Her eyes became teary and she wanted to cry. She was not a fan of tears and being sentimental. She hailed a taxi and went back home.


    Arabe was already wrapping off her presentation to show Michelle why she should choose them when Kieran walked in.


    ¡°Wee back¡± she greeted him out of courtesy.


    Kieran stood and stared at her for a long time. She felt ufortable with the way his eyes did not move from her body.


    ¡°I think you might need to find a new job¡± he finally said after thinking long and hard.


    ¡®Wasn¡¯t he the same guy telling me not to give up in the morning¡¯ Arabe thought?


    ¡°Find a new job? But I have barely spent three two days here¡± Arabe replied.


    Kieran knew that he had offended Aurora big time and that she was going to get her revenge. No doubt the revenge would not be directed at him but at Arabe instead.


    He should have been nicer. Now Arabe would have to suffer the consequences of his actions. The only thing that would save her would be if she can sessfully leave the environment and establish herself somewhere else.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    ¡°I would get you a job at a biggerpany,¡± Kieran said assuring her. He had that much influence at least. He could move her from their small start-up to something bigger.


    ¡°Why do I have to leave?¡± she said. Even if she was going to leave then she had to know why


    ¡°I have offended Aurora¡±

 XXV

    Now it is Arabe¡¯s turn to stare at Kieran. She has expressed herself to him even though she did not want to and then he went ahead to make her even more pissed.


    ¡°Why would you do that?¡± she asked her voice dangerously low.


    ¡°Well I did not mean to offend her,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°But you did and now I have to suffer for it,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°What was I supposed to do? She suddenly asked me to marry her¡±


    ¡°And I was used as a scapegoat for your escape from marriage?¡± Arabe asked.


    She felt betrayed by this man. She may not be close to him or know him that well but his actions just showed how unreliable he might be. She was not even interested in him and she would be getting bullied for the rest of her stay at that office.


    ¡®Should I go and work somewhere else?¡¯ Arabe thought. Her subconscious mind that loved books shouted in response ¡®And miss the chance of meeting and working with Michelle Michigan?¡¯


    ¡°How could you be so careless?¡± Arabe screamed. The sound of her voice shocked her too. She could not believe she just screamed at this man.


    ¡°You just made my work life hell. Why do I have to repeat high school all over again now that I get to work?¡± She said with a groan.


    The statement she made sank into Kieran¡¯s mind. Was she perhaps bullied? Was she an outcast in her high school? Did he make her live her high school life again? What had he just done?


    Arabe packed up her thongs from the table and made her way to her room. Maybe she should pack up and leave the house and make her way back to Japan. She would be safe there. She did not want to go back to the trauma she felt during high school.


    Kieran stood still in the living room contemting what he had just done. Should he call Aurora and make peace with her? Was that why she was extra sensitive about getting bullied when she spoke to him about it that afternoon?


    ¡°Oh my gosh, Kieran you scared me,¡± Everly said when she saw her son standing there like some statue.


    ¡°What are you doing home so early? Arabe told me you had a date with Aurora are you finally going to date her?¡± Everly asked.


    ¡°Why should I date her if I don¡¯t like her?¡± Kieran found himself blurting.


    He wanted to right the wrong and call Aurora. He wanted to beg her and tell her he would date her but he couldn¡¯t find himself to do it. Not only did he not like Aurora as a woman she always reminded him of his harsh past with Kim.


    There was no way he would let go of himself at this moment. He would advise Ryder to give Aurora apulsory six months off and then by the time she was back she would have let go of her hate directed towards Arabe.


    She mentally pats himself foring up with the idea. Since the inception of the business she had been working tirelessly and now she deserved a break. There was no way Ryder would refuse.


    ¡°Thanks, Mom,¡± he said patting her shoulders as he jogged towards the stairs.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°Hello Mom,¡± Arabe said over the phone.


    She had decided before now that she would put up with whatever Aurora threw her way. Now that she was angry at Kieran she was sure all the pent up aggression would being her way.


    She would me her even if she was not at all. The bullying would get worse and might even get physical. Aurora looked much more heavier and healthier than her so there was the probability that if they got intobat she would lose.


    ¡°Why does your voice sound like that?¡± Ava asked as soon as she heard her daughter¡¯s voice.


    Ava had been in her children¡¯s space continuously for fourteen years. She could tell by her voice that something was wrong.


    ¡°My voice? Nothing. Maybe it¡¯s the stress?¡± Arabe said asking.


    ¡°Are you asking me?¡± Ava asked her back.


    ¡°No Mom, I am not asking I am telling it just sounded like a question¡± she quickly defended.


    ¡°So what is wrong with you? Don¡¯t say anything as usual but just tell me the whole truth¡± Ava asked.


    ¡°Why would you assume that something is wrong?¡± Arabe asked trying to sound brighter than usual.


    ¡°Because I know you and I know you are currently forcing your voice to be cherry so that I don¡¯t worry,¡± Ava said.


    ¡°But you know what? I am your mom to worry about. That¡¯s what parents do. They worry over their kids even when they are old and big enough to take care of themselves¡± Ava added.


    ¡°Mom I¡¯m fine sincerely¡± Arabe lied.


    ¡°Ara, don¡¯t make me call Everly to ask her what is going on. Just tell me. A problem shared is half solved. I might give cool advice¡± Ava said trying her best to convince her daughter.


    ¡°Ughh Mom¡± Arabe let out seeing that she was already losing. She would have to tell her mom so she doesn¡¯t worry Everly too.


    ¡°There is this woman at work who likes our boss and I hear she bullies everyone who our boss talks to or favors¡± Arabe let out.


    She decided to leave out the part where the boss is her tmate and she was currently squatting in his house.


    ¡°Which boss? Kieran? Everly¡¯s son?¡± Ava asked.


    So her mom knew already. She has probably heard from Everly that they were working in the samepany and that Kieran was the boss.


    ¡°You know people never change. Everly still bragged about her son and his achievement to me which is why I came to know that you work together¡± Ava said.


    ¡°I thought by now she would be tired of all the bragging¡± Ava added.


    ¡°Mom focus. I am being bullied again¡±


    The word again brought back memories of what Arabe suffered in high school. She has to change school but was still bullied for being a bookworm and having a tiny figure.


    ¡°Can Ie home, Mom?¡± Arabe¡¯s question cut Ava¡¯s train of thought.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Mom I do not want to be bullied again¡±

 XXVI

    Ava found herself wavering at the thought of her daughtering home. If the bullying was so bad that she wanted toe home then it would be okay. Ava missed her child too. She missed having her around and she missed the silly things she would say after reading a book.


    ¡°Why would youe back?¡± Ava forced herself to say.


    If she asks her child to return home then she would be teaching her to run from her challenges and she wanted to build a strong woman capable of everything that is what despite the urges on her part to hinder her child from flying halfway across the world she let her go fulfill all her wishes.


    ¡°Because I don¡¯t want to be bullied¡± Arabe responded.


    ¡°You are strong and a wonderful woman and I am sure that no woman can put you down,¡± Ava said.


    Arabe felt her eyes get watery and she sniffed back to draw the tears in.


    ¡°No woman is a match for my daughter. You are smart and almost the best worker I know. You do things well and I am sure you would warm your way into the heart of the bully¡± Ava said.


    She was not going to allow her daughter who flew across the world only to have a couple of meals that can still be gotten in Japan. Her daughter was going to fulfill her dreams and live her life and love that life.


    ¡°Mom, do you think I should suck up to her? No one can refuse someone who sucks up to them¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°I know you would make the right decision about it. You made the best one by deciding to go out there to work and I am so proud of you even if you decide toe back¡± Ava said.


    ¡°I think I know what I have to do now¡± Arabe dered.


    ¡°I am sure you do,¡± Ava said.


    Both women spent a long time catching up over the phone as Ava told her about all her cousins and everything they were up to at that time.


    ¡°Bye Mom,¡± Arabe said for the fifteenth time. She called Kieran immediately. She nned to suck up to Aurora and the only way she could do that was for her to know her very well.


    ¡°Hello?¡± Kieran said when he picked up the call.


    ¡°It¡¯s Arabe¡±


    ¡°I know¡±N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    Kieran¡¯s answer baffled her. She was not expecting him to have her number. Maybe she underrated him. Maybe he was not so bad after all.


    ¡°What do you need?¡± Kieran asked when he noticed her side of the line went silent.


    ¡°I want to know all about Aurora,¡± She said firmly.


    ¡°Why are you looking for her weakness so you could harm her?¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°What?¡± Arabe asked confused the thought did not even cross her mind. Was it a better idea?


    ¡°I am joking,¡± Kieran said. ¡°But why do you need it?¡±


    Arabe thought hard and long if she should tell him about it. She decided he might find outter so there was no point keeping it from him.


    ¡°I want to suck up to her¡±


    ¡°You want to suck up to her?¡± Kieran asked because he could not believe his ears. The logical thing to do was for her to find her weakness and prey on it. It only made sense. That was the direction most humans would take. So did he think?


    ¡°Yes. Are you free now to tell me all about her?¡± Arabe said


    She had made up her mind and she knew her strategy might be a little childish but she hated the games of weakness finding and whatnot. She did not want to get hurt in the end. She was an expert at sucking up to adults she did it herself with her mom.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I don¡¯t think it is a good idea¡± he responded.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what you think. You put me in this mess and you have to help me get out of it¡± Arabe said in a voice that wasmanding.


    ¡°This tone you just took with me I am sure if you do the same with Aurora she would let you off the hook. You were very scary¡± Kieran said.


    He would do anything and everything he could to escape talking about Aurora.


    ¡°I want to do it my way,¡± Arabe said back.


    ¡°What if you ask Ryder? He knows a great deal about her¡± Kieran suggested.


    ¡°And what do I say when I go up to ask him? My superior is bullying me and I need to dig up all about her to suck up to her?¡± Arabe asked.


    For some reason, the way Arabe said herst statement stung Kieran. He was not obligated to help her but for someone he could not refuse. He used up all the cards he should have had up his sleeves and now he had to give in to her.


    ¡°I would go down in twenty minutes Meet me there then,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Arabe said cutting off the call and putting the phone on the table. She was a step closer to achieving her goal. She was going to do it. There was not one person on the Earth who hated someone who seemed subject to them.


    ¡°Hey, thank you for meeting with me,¡± Arabe said as she saw Kieran descend from the stairs.


    Wasn¡¯t she the girl who had thrown out orders over the phone less than thirty minutes ago?


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem¡± Kieran lied.


    It was a great inconvenience for him. He did not want to talk about Aurora and not to Arabe at that.


    Something about her was different from the girls he usually met. She has this vibe that drew him in and that was why he went the extra mile to drive her to work.


    He could have just told his mom that she is a junior worker who needed to be at the office earlier and it would have solved the whole issue of him driving her to work.


    He wanted to protect her and he wondered why.

 XXVII

    Arabe was eager to begin this new phase she was about embark on. She knew that in at least a month she would be out of the woods with Aurora.


    ¡°What does she like?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°Books¡± Kieran answered nonchntly.


    ¡°I like books too,¡± Arabe said her eyes glistening at the sound of books. ¡°That¡¯s why I came to work at a book publishingpany¡± she added because she felt the need to exin her life choices to him.


    ¡°Are you two already coborating on a project together?¡± Everly asked from the door frame as she watched them both.


    Arabe had been diligently writing while Kieran had been talking. She felt good seeing the two of them work together.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Kieran said and Arabe felt her eyebrow shoot up to join with her hairline.


    ¡°I would get you snacks,¡± Everly said happily moving to the kitchen.


    ¡°I thought you did not lie to your mom?¡± Arabe whispered harshly.


    Kieran looked at her for a second. He did tell her that he did not and can not lie to her. He was caught right now.


    ¡°Do you want to tell her you are plotting a revenge n?¡± Kieran saiding up with an excuse his voice following the whisper pattern she started.


    ¡°I am not plotting revenge,¡± Arabe said back. It wasn¡¯t revenge. She was gathering intel on her enemy to butter them up with kindness.


    ¡°It is kindness yeah,¡± Kieran said sarcastically. Before Arabe coulde back with a word Everly entered back holding a huge tray for them. There were some brownies and cut-open apples, some cupcakes, and a couple of fruit juice.


    ¡°Do you need anything more?¡± Everly asked.


    ¡°No Mom,¡± Kieran said urging her away.


    ¡°No Everly this is more than enough. If I go on eating all you give me I might have to hit the gym sooner than I expected¡± Arabe said.


    She picked up a cupcake and put it to her mouth and then chewed on it slowly.


    ¡°It¡¯s delicious Everly, thank you for the thought and action¡± Arabe added.


    Everly could not help but blush. She could not remember thest time she felt so good. Arabe hadplimented her so well she felt like she could do anything that Arabe asked of her¡­


    ¡°Thanks, Mom, can we get back to work?¡± Kieran asked this blushing mom who did not move a step.


    ¡°Oh yes don¡¯t mind me I would get going. Do not stay up toote okay? Good night you two¡± Everly said walking towards the stairs.


    ¡°Good night¡± Arabe called sweetly after her.


    ¡°And that my friend is how you butter someone up,¡± Arabe told Kieran.


    Kieran must confess he was genuinely believing what she was doing at that point.


    ¡°Are you saying everything you did now was for show?¡± Kieran asked.


    ¡°No but I exaggerated it¡± she replied.


    Those tactics worked well on her very traditional extended family and even on her mother. Worked well on the aunties too and she got away with most things those her age could not.


    ¡°That¡¯s nice¡±


    Arabe had a long chat with Kieran about Aurora. He knew so much about her it was as if they were either dating or had lived a great deal of their lives together.


    ¡°You know awfully a lot for someone who ims not to care,¡± Arabe said as she stood up.


    ¡°She was constantly in my space and I had no choice but to ept it that way¡± Kieran responds.


    As weird as it sounds Aurora made sure she showed up consistently in the life of Kieran. She wanted to leave her footprints in his life. She wanted everything to remind him of her but her fourteen years were in vain. Even when she knew he was dating her friend Kimberly she still did those things.


    She hoped they would break up so she can have a taste of being in a rtionship with him. The breakup left him shattered and she in turn did all she could to heal him. She would admit that he never healed. He only got better but never gave in to love again.


    ¡°I guess people can actively work their way to someone¡¯s life,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Ohhh I am sleepy¡± she announced as she yawned.


    Kieran watched her as she yawned and thought that she looked cute.


    ¡®Why did you just think she looked cute?¡¯ Kieran screamed internally. ¡®She was cute though¡¯ his mind shouted at him back.


    ¡°Good night,¡± Kieran said standing up.


    Maybe seeing her too much made him have those thoughts. It was unholy or a crime to think that someone was cute but then he did not want to have those thoughts about any woman and especially not to her because he was ten years older than her.


    ¡°Good night¡± Arabe called after his retreating figure.


    She looked down at the tray and saw it was empty. Everly did know her stuff and she knew how to take care of others. Everything on the tray was truly delicious. She did not lie about that one


    She picked up the tray and made her way to the kitchen to drop it off. She emptied everything that needed to be disposed of into the trash can and dropped the tray into the sink.


    She walked back to her room. Changed into her night gown andid back down on her bed. She was feeling better but not well rted after her long connecting flight, dinner where she had to help everyone get home, and two stressful days at work.


    The only thing at the moment that made everyone worth it was Michelle Michigan. She was going to meet her tomorrow. She practiced conversations she would have with her in her head. She practiced the response she would give to questions that would be thrown her way by Michelle.


    She kept doing it and imagining the reaction from Michelle tomorrow when she see how hard she had worked to wee her. Her thoughts and imaginations lured her to dreand and soon she was sound asleep dancing a sweet kind of dance in the dreand.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.

 XXVIII

    ¡°Marigold, don¡¯t start this morning again,¡± Ryder said.


    ¡°Start again?¡± Marigold asked. ¡°You are making it seem as if I am always causing some kind of trouble or issue every day¡± she added.


    Ryder was tempered to answer affirmative but he knew that he would never hear the end of it. After all, she was known for her ability to hold grudges for a long time and never let go.


    ¡°I am sorry that was a slip of the tongue. I must be out of my mind to think or even say that about you¡± Ryder said.


    He knew his wife well. He had dated her for nine years and they got married five years ago. They loved each other and that was why they got married but recently Ryder was unable to pinpoint the reasons why she has been so cranky and difficult.


    They were trying for a baby and having been trying for a year and a half and yet no results. The test confirmed that both parties were healthy.


    ¡°I thought as much¡± Marigold said and entered back into her room.


    She found it hard to believe that the man she called her husband and wanted to spend all her years with did not understand her at all. How was hefortable with the oue of their trials every month? When she saw her period she told him and the news did not seem to get him down.


    When they first started to try she had not expected to have the baby immediately but she could not understand why it was taking that long if she was healthy and why she has and was indifferent about it.


    Could it be that he did not want the child anymore because he did not love her anymore? Rider walked back into the room and got a hold of his wife¡¯s hands. He took the two of them into his and began to rub them very gently.


    ¡°Marigold, I love you,¡± Ryder said. There was no way he was going to allow himself to lose this rtionship.


    He could hardly tell what was going on in her mind but he knew that assuring her that he loved her was a good way to get her in high spirits.


    ¡°Even without a baby?¡± Marigold asked her eyes lined with tears.


    She knew her husband loved her but she just could not understand why he wasfortable when she was having a hard time trying to have a baby.


    ¡°The baby woulde. Trust me,¡± he said squeezing her hand. ¡°I love you and that¡¯s why I followed you around until you married me¡± he added a littleugh escaping both their lips.


    ¡°Maybe we could take it slowly and I am sure a baby woulde¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± she asked him.


    ¡°When have I ever been wrong?¡± he asked with a chuckle waiting to erupt at the back of his throat.


    ¡°Majority of times¡± Marigold responded now unable to hold herughter.


    ¡°I would take care of everything Trust me¡±


    ¡°Good Morning Everly,¡± Arabe said as she came down the stairs.


    ¡°Oh darling Good morning¡± Everly replied turning to face the girl. ¡°How are you feeling this morning?¡± she added.


    ¡°Nervous. I have a big presentation today and think I might piss myself¡± she replied.


    ¡°I am sure you would do well. Come let¡¯s have breakfast¡± Everly said pulling her hand with her towards the bathroom.


    ¡°Do you have anything special you want for dinner? I would make it¡± Everly asked as she took her seat beside Arabe.


    ¡°Why?¡± Arabe asked confused.


    ¡°To celebrate your sess in whatever you might be presenting at work,¡± Everly said.


    ¡°But we are even unsure if I would do a good job,¡± Arabe said feeling pressured.


    The pressure of meeting Michelle Michigan and being her help throughout her visit to theirpany was making her fret.


    If she was too cozy with Michelle she was afraid that it would put her off and that she might be ufortable. She also felt that she might feel out of ce if she did not feel like anybody was her fan.


    Arabe wanted to find bnce but could not know or decide how to do it. At first meeting, Michelle was the only thing on her mind and she was d to be a part of the opportunity but now she was only feeling burdened.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°I know. I have known you for a long time. Your Mom brags about you all the time. I know that you would do a good job today¡± Everly said squeezing her hand.


    ¡°I hope so,¡± Arabe said breathing heavily.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we going to have breakfast today?¡± Kieran said as he entered with his dad to see an empty table.


    ¡°I would be having breakfast and I would be sharing it with Arabe only. You boys should fix something for yourselves¡± Everly said.


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Ethan asked awestruck by his wife¡¯s words.


    ¡°What I said is what I meant,¡± Everly said standing up to bring the meal she prepared from the kitchen.


    ¡°Can you see the strange way your mom has been acting?¡± Ethan said to Kieran his voice rising.


    ¡°Dad please let everything be done in an orderly manner today. It¡¯s obvious she is not happy about something do not try to make it worse¡± Kieran said cautioning his dad.


    ¡°Even if we did something so outrageous does that mean she has to starve us in the morning?¡± Ethan said back. He came to his usual seat on the table and sat down.


    ¡°Mom, what is going on?¡± Kieran addressed his mom as she came out of the kitchen.


    Kieran was less bothered about having breakfast at home. He started having breakfast at home when Everlyined that he never did so.


    ¡°I am just returning the energy and treating everyone the way they treat me. It¡¯s only fair. Don¡¯t you think so?¡± she asked sweetly.


    ¡°We are sorry Mom, we would do better,¡± Kieran said.


    He did not want his parents to be caught in such a serious argument in the presence of the strange girl living in their house. He was sure she did not want to see the argument either.


    ¡°I did not hear him say anything.¡±

 XXIX

    ¡°Did you enjoy watching my parents have it at each other?¡± Kieran asked as Arabe slipped herself into the car.


    Arabe stopped for a moment to process what he had just asked. She could not believe anyone would think such words not to talk of saying them out loud.


    ¡°Why would you say such things? What do you take me for?¡± Arabe asked.


    She felt insulted that he would think such things about her.


    ¡°Well you just seemed to sit down there and allow them bicker because of you without you doing anything about it,¡± Kieran said. ¡°Close the door¡± he added addressing the ajar door.


    Arabe gently closes the door and puts on her seat belt. She pats her hair down and sits well.


    ¡°Kieran I would just have to point this out. I have no gain in watching your parents fight. It makes me ufortable to think about and I hate watching it too¡± she said


    The car fell silent. Arabe had woken up feeling good about the day. She was going to meet and even be with her favorite author of all time. It was good news and it was good enough to get any book lover into a good mood Kieran had sessfully been able to ruin her mood in a few minutes.


    ¡°Are you always very rude? Why are you always very ride?¡± she said out when the silence went out of hand.


    Kieran was yet to start the car and they were still in one ce.


    ¡°I think it would be wise if I go by myself,¡± Arabe said unclicking her seat belt and opening the door. She got down from the car and began to walk toward the gate.


    Kieran sat back inside the car as he watched her make her way to the gate. Why was he rude to her? Was it because he felt himself getting closer to her after their conversation yesterday and he felt the need to put her back in her ce?


    He started the car and went to block the gate so she could not pass. He came down from the car and went to stand in front of a fuming girl.


    ¡°Move your car or I would bete for work,¡± she said and eyed him up and down before adding ¡°Sir¡±


    ¡°I am sorry. I acted out of ce. I did not know what I was thinking when I said those words¡± Kieran said.


    Arabe was taken aback. He looked like someone who would not apologize after offending you greatly but here he was apologizing.


    ¡°So enter into the car let¡¯s go to work¡± he added.


    ¡°Why did you make thatment?¡±


    ¡°Can we just forget about it?¡± Kieran said. He felt ufortable talking about himself or his family to anyone.


    ¡°Are you just apologizing so that your mom won¡¯t query you for allowing me to go to work all by myself?¡± Arabe asked. ¡°If that¡¯s the case. I would tell her myself the reason why I want to go to work by myself from now on¡± she added when she saw the expression on his face.


    ¡°Just get in for today we would resolve the issue after work,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°You must think I am easy. I am not getting into your car so move it NOW¡±


    ¡°Just get into the car,¡± Kieran said sighing.


    He was wrong and he knew that. He wanted to apologize but Arabe was not having it. He felt like he should turn back the hands of time and ensure to not make the statement.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Why would he speak in such a manner to her? She had been nothing but on her good behavior since she got here.


    ¡°I would not be entering into the car. I am so angry that I do not want to see you or be in the same space with you. So for my sanity please let me go by myself¡± Arabe said.


    The words he said hurt her deeply that she felt like crying. Why then would she cry in front of him?


    ¡°Arabe please calm down. I already said I am sorry why are you being so difficult?¡±


    It felt like he was adding fuel to the fire. She could not believe her ears. He was calling her difficult and she was not. She was just reacting to the words she heard that pained her deeply.


    ¡°Are you always this brazen?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°Brazen? What do you mean by that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m being difficult? You spoke so rudely and I am reacting and you are saying I¡¯m being difficult?¡± Arabe asked.


    She closed her eyes and took deep breaths to steady her breathing. She felt she was losing it. Was it the same man that another woman was bullying her over? He was not one to have a massive crush. Since he had hurt her so badly then she was going to hurt him too.


    ¡°Maybe if you and your dad had been good to your mom they would not have such arguments frequently and I would not need to be med for their fights,¡± Arabe said.


    Her words took Kieran by surprise. He had never thought he treated his mom badly. He treated her well. His father treated her well.


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Kieran asked.


    If she was using him then she better have a good exnation as to why she thinks his mom was poorly treated. Arabe looks at him and eyes him up and down.


    Her next action shocks both herself and Kieran. She wanted to leap over the car to the other side but failed when her bodyid over the car bo. Arabe felt pain surge through her leg.


    ¡°What have you just done?¡± Kieran asked going close to her.


    Her goal was to jump over and get out the gate but it seems like her n was not done properly as now she felt the same pain she felt when she broke her leg from being bullied by her mates.


    ¡°My leg,¡± she said slowly. ¡°It hurts¡± she continued.


    ¡°Why won¡¯t it hurt? It could be a sprain for all we know. Why did you do that?¡± he asked taking her leg that was in a weird position in his hand and massaging the length and breadth of it.


    ¡°How does this feel?¡±

 XXX

    Having him that close so that she could scent his cologne and feel his breath made her shudder. She started at him as he poured his entire attention on her sprained leg.


    ¡°Arabe?¡± he asked waving his hand across her face.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± she responded snapping out of the trance the hunk handsome man had some how put her in.


    ¡°I said how much does it hurt?¡± he asked when she came to.


    ¡°Not very much,¡± she said back. She pushed herself off the car making him stand straight back.


    ¡°See,¡± she said putting her leg to the ground and then wincing in pain immediately.


    ¡°Not fine,¡± Kieran said as his hand went to steady her by the shoulders.


    His hand felt warm on her shoulders and sent a wave of got currents down her body.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°You need to go to the hospital,¡± Kieran said to her.


    The sound of the word hospital took away all she was feeling. The hospital? If she went to the hospital then there was no way she would be able to meet Michelle Michigan and she had to meet her.


    ¡°No way. No hospitals¡± she said almost in a scream. ¡°I am fine. I¡¯ll manage¡± she added.


    ¡°You are hurt and it¡¯s so clear. You have to get it treated immediately.


    ¡°I would go in your car but no hospital,¡± Arabe said bargaining.


    ¡°There is no doubt about that. You are going in my car and I am taking you to the hospital¡± Kieran said leaving her hand and removing just the car from the way so that the passenger seat is facing her and she can easily get into the car. He came down to help her so she doesn¡¯t get hurt and further.


    ¡°Careful¡± he whispered as he took her hand and led her to the car.


    ¡°I have to go to work today,¡± Arabe said as she entered the car.


    ¡°We are going to the hospital and then you areing back home to rest,¡± Kieran said like it was thew.


    ¡°I have to go to work today,¡± Arabe said again.


    It was as if she was a broken record and she was not minding or listening to what he was saying. Korean closed the door and took a deep breath before turning to the driver¡¯s side and entering the car.


    He sat and extended his hand to help Arabe with the seatbelt to which she quickly took it and strapped it herself. He nodded and strapped his seat belt.


    ¡°I know it is wrong of me to ask you this favor since we just met and don¡¯t know each other but I have to ask you this¡± Arabe said as he started the car.


    ¡°I am not taking you to work. I am taking you to the hospital to have your leg checked. We would not want it to be something worse¡± Kieran said driving to the gate.


    ¡°I will go have my leg checked but after I attend to Michelle,¡± Arabe said.


    Kieran fell silent. It was her job to attend to her and she seemed to want it real bad.


    ¡°Please?¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Thank you so much,¡± Arabe said.


    She was d she did not miss this opportunity to meet one of her favorite writers because of her recklessness. She had felt insted by Kieran¡¯s words but now she felt embarrassed to look at him.


    What did she try to do and why did she do it? She asked herself these questions over and over but could not find an answer. It was obvious that her stubbornness was what drove her to try to jump over the car hood without thinking.


    Kieran gave in and drove her to work first but made it clear to her that she had to go to the doctor immediately after Michelle left. The car drove into the parking lot of the office.


    ¡°Can we keep it a secret from everyone how I ended up like this? I am too embarrassed to face you I can¡¯t add the rest of the office to it¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°And of course, it is another favor that I n to repay soon¡± she added.


    ¡°I have nothing to gain in telling everyone how you got into this mess in the first ce and it would only lead to unnecessary conversation¡± Kieran responded.


    ¡°Oh well, thank you,¡± Arabe said. She was grateful he was not as social as she expected him to be.


    As they walked into the office space Arabe could not help but hide her face. She has been in the city for less than a week and she already had a major injury.


    What was she supposed to tell her mom? And Everly too? Why was she so foolish? Why did she make rash and foolish decisions when she was angry? If she had stopped to think then she won¡¯t be meeting her favorite author with a broken leg.


    ¡°Oh my, what happens?¡± Chole said as she watched Arabe being walked in supported by Kieran and limping on one leg.


    ¡°Can someone get a first aid box?¡± Kieran asked ignoring Chole as she walked Arabe to her cubicle.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get it,¡± Aaron said standing up and making his way to the first aid cab and pulling out the emergency kit.


    He opened it to ensure that the spray for sprains was there and a pain relief patch and medicine.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get water,¡± Mia said standing up too. They were all concerned as to how she got the injury but seeing the way Kieran had ignored the question they would most likely not get an answer untilter.


    ¡°Why did you bring her in?¡± Chole asked as she came to help Kieran put her in her chair.


    ¡°I asked to be brought in,¡± Arabe said as she winced in pain.


    ¡°Why?¡± she asked facing her. ¡°I could handle well with Michelle¡± she added.


    ¡°And miss the opportunity to meet her?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°Once she signs with us you can meet her every time¡± Chole said like it was the most obvious fact.


    ¡°I just wanted to meet her¡±

 XXXI

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you are doing this just to meet Michelle Michigan,¡± Chole said going in with the pain relief spray.


    ¡°How does that feel?¡± Aaron asked when Chole stopped spraying.


    ¡°Fine,¡± Arabe says absentmindedly. She looks up at the entire office and how they were trying toe to her aid. It felt surreal to her that this amount of people were interested in how well she does.


    ¡°Ow,¡± she screamed and looked down to see Mia pressing down a portion of her.


    ¡°Fine?¡± she asked with a scoff. ¡°We need to take her to the hospital asap¡± she added.


    Arabe looked up again and her eyes jammed Kieran¡¯s ¡®I told you so¡¯ danced in them as he stared at her.


    If she went to the hospital then she would miss the opportunity of being the one to host her. She had done a lot of work.


    ¡°No no no,¡± she said forcing herself to stand up. She could barely stand for a few seconds before she fell back to the chair.


    ¡°ow,¡± she said groaning in intense pain.


    ¡°Aaron please do carry her immediately,¡± Ryder said as he came out.


    He had been watching them from the ss wall from his office and he had seen how stubborn she was. If they keep asking her she would not go for treatment and it could get worse.


    ¡°Wait wait,¡± she said struggling as Aaron¡¯s firm hands engulf her firm hands lift her bridal style.


    ¡°I promise I would get treatment immediately after the author leaves,¡± she says trying to make it into a normal conversation but instead it was intense screamsing from her.


    Aaron did not listen to her protest and went down to the parking lot where Ryder had prepared the car.


    ¡°I would take you for treatment and then home. Don¡¯te back until you are fully healthy¡± Ryder said as Aaron dropped her in the back seat and closed the door.


    Aaron walked over to the driver¡¯s seat to take instructions from Ryder. If Ryder had to take her to the hospital then they would need instructions on how to run.


    ¡°Tell Kieran¡­..¡± Ryder began to say when the passenger seat opens up and Kieran slides in.


    Ryder and Aaron turn to see him sitting there trying to put on his seatbelt.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Ryder asked.


    ¡°I am going with you¡± Kieran answered nkly looking ahead.


    ¡°Why?¡± Ryder asked.


    ¡°Because I want to and I have to. I am her guardian too. It would make no sense if I stayed back¡± he answered looking ahead nkly.


    Ryder wanted to speak as he opened and closed his mouth severally. Finally, he decided not to fight it. Kieran had always proven to be stubborn and do only what he wanted.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Ryder turned back to Aaron and told him what to do. The best they could do was have Aurora attend to the client. Since it was not their first official meeting they had nothing to worry about.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Ryder said when Aaron stepped back and began to walk back to the office.


    The little things we do for one another do matter. Arabe felt her heart flutter since two men came to her aid. She felt bad for not meeting Michelle Michigan but she felt bad to bring it up seeing that both men missed their meeting to be here for her.


    ¡°Ryder¡± she whispered tugging at his hand.


    She had been taken into the hospital and then given emergency treatment for relief. The doctors said she should stay back so they can perform an x-ray to ensure that she gets the right can of treatment.


    ¡°Yes,¡± he said turning his gaze down to her as she sprawled across the bed.


    ¡°Can I ask for a favor?¡± she asked. Was she eligible to be asked such questions?


    ¡°A favor?¡± Ryder weighing his options. He barely knew her and her tendencies so how could he ept to grant her request when he wasn¡¯t sure what it was she wanted to ask?


    ¡°Yes don¡¯t worry I won¡¯t ask for anything crazy¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I am capable of doing it for you,¡± Ryder said. ¡°But ask I would see if I can do something about it¡± he added sincerely.


    He did not want to be put in a position where he doesn¡¯t know if he would be able to get out.


    ¡°Can you put me on the team that would handle all Michelle¡¯s work?¡± she asked pulling her puppy and cute eyes as much as she could.


    ¡°You already are on the team,¡± Ryder said. ¡°Well since we are a small start up you have to be on all the teams. We are all on the team¡± he added.


    A simple smile crossed her face as she adjusted herself on the bed. She could move her leg and she was grateful the pain had stopped.


    Kieran walks back in. He had to process the payment for treatments so he had left them both. He decided to go to the store across the street to get something to eat and drink for them all


    ¡°Me. CEO I think you need to go¡± Kieran said removing the contents of the bag in his hand. He pushed a can of drink to the face of Ryder.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Ryder said with a smile.


    ¡°You need to go,¡± Kieran said again as a reminder. Both of them should not have left the office. Aurora was all talk and no do. There were times when making decisions was overwhelming for her and hence the decision that one of them had to go back.


    ¡°You go back, I want to use this opportunity to rx,¡± Ryder said taking a seat in the chair provided for the bed.


    ¡°Me CEO??¡± Kieran said in a question form. It was evident that there was a warning in his voice.


    ¡°Gosh, Kieran, ¡± he responded casually as he opened up the drink in his hand and took a sip of it. ¡°Refreshing. Thanks, ¡± he murmured before proceeding to take more sips.


    ¡°I think as should both go back to work,¡± Kieran suggested.


    ¡°Both of us?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll call my mom toe to stay with her¡±

 XXXII

    ¡°Wait no don¡¯t call her,¡± Arabe said before Kieran could dial the number.


    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t call her?¡± Ryder asked confused. ¡°We have to get back to work now and you can¡¯t stay alone. The doctor gave you some pain killers and they can make you drowsy so you need someone here with you¡±


    ¡°Yeah I know that but can one of you stay instead?¡± she asked pouting.


    ¡°Why?¡± Kieran asked. He was least interested but he had to know why she did not want his mom around. Was it perhaps rted to what went on in the morning?


    ¡°Everly and my mom are very close. If she is aware that I hurt myself in less than two weeks of being here then my mom would be all over my case and Everly would be sad. I think I would be a bad child to make both moms worry about me¡± she exined.


    Upon hearing her conclusion both men saw sense in what she said but how would they leave their work for the entire day?


    ¡°Please,¡± she said pulling the cutest face she could muster.


    She could not stand a great scolding now. She had missed the opportunity to meet someone she greatly admired. Although she was told she would have plenty of more opportunities she still hated that she missed it.


    Both moms scolding her would only make her day worse than it already was. Kieran sighed and slipped the phone back into his pocket. What could he do when he understood her plight?


    ¡°I guess I have to go back to work then,¡± Ryder said.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go with you so I can pick up my car ande back here,¡± Kieran said.


    Ryder stood up and dusted the imaginary dust off his trousers. ¡°Ensure not toe into work until your leg is perfectly healed. There is no work to be rushed at this time so take your time to recover well or else I might be forced to revoke your employment¡±


    The way Ryder narrowed his eyes made her a tad bit afraid. She nodded in agreement. Her legs hurt so badly that she doubted she would be able to walk well for a while.


    ¡°And if Aurora sends you any work while you are away tell me right away, I will discipline her¡± he added turning from the door.


    She nodded but knew deep within her that she could not do it. How was she to rattle out her superior? She would have it more difficult than it was right now.


    She watched Kieran¡¯s back as he disappeared into the doorway. He said nothing and did not turn back.


    She wondered inside herself if it was a good idea to have him with her. He barely spoke which meant she would have to entertain herself from within. She wished the drowsiness of the pain relief given to her would kick in immediately but she could not feel it yet.


    ¡°I need to tell Seraphina¡± she murmured as she took her phone from the stand beside her.


    ¡°Hello Sera¡±


    ¡°Ara?? You are calling during work hours? Is something up?¡±


    ¡°Must something be up for me to call?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°Yes¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t take it the wrong way but you don¡¯t call or pick calls whenever you work. I remember your part-time job when you were in college. Mom thought something was wrong when you did not pick up¡±


    ¡°And she left me fifty-seven missed calls,¡± Arabe said.


    Talking about those memories made her miss home all the more. She hated that she was away from home. If she was home she would have her two legs to herself.


    ¡°I am not at work anyway¡±


    ¡°I knew it, there is no way you could be at work and call me,¡± Seraphina said.


    ¡°Oh yay you know me too well,¡± Arabe said in a mocking voice.


    ¡°Are you already ying hooky? You¡¯ve barely spent a month there¡±


    Seraphina was kind of proud of her younger sister who had always been a stickler for rules. She always followed them to thetter. To hear that she skipped work was kind of a thing of joy to her.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m at the hospital,¡± Arabe said and the other end of the line went silent. Arabe waited for her sister to process the news.


    ¡°At the hospital? Doing what?¡± she asked quietly and gently returning the same energy the news was delivered with.


    ¡°Are you around Mom?¡±


    Arabe was still not ready to get scolded by her mom. She knew her mom would pry and try to know the reason why she had that injury.


    Being the goody too shoes she was she would spill and tell her in on all the secrets and then her mom would definitely scold her for foolishly jumping onto the top of a car without thinking about it.


    She could hear her mom¡¯s voice scolding and telling her that she always thought she was the wiser one. She shook he head to shake off the feeling of her mom breathing down her neck.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m at work¡±


    ¡°Okay, so today Richard and Everly had a huge fight that made me very ufortable, and then Kieran said they fought because of me. I was mad and gave him a tiny piece of my mind and then I jumped over the hood of the car because I did not want to go to work with him¡± she said at once in a summary.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡±Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    ¡°You mean you made a rash decision? So rash that you evennded in a hospital?¡± Seraphina could not believe her ears. Her model student sister was suddenly acting strange.


    ¡°What made you act that way?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I guess I was so pissed that I felt overwhelmed? They have been fighting nonstop since I got here. Makes me wonder if our parents would have been that way if dad was still alive¡± she ended with a voice that said she was daydreaming.


    ¡°No one can tell but I know we would have loved it¡±


    ¡°Do you think if I move out I would still be able to call mom?¡± Arabe asked out of the blue.


    She did n to move out but she knew it was too soon.


    ¡°Is Crescent Bay doing something else to you?¡±

 XXXIII

    ¡°Okay Bye, I will call youter,¡± Arabe said over the phone as Kieran walked in. She did not want Kieran to have to listen in to her conversation with her sister something about it did not sit well with her.


    He walked to the seat in the private room and dropped his keys to the table. She had had a long conversation about everything and anything with her sister and she had advised her to date someone as soon as she could.


    ¡°Has the doctore?¡± Kieran asked as he watched her drop the phone from her ears.


    ¡°Not yet¡± she said as she tried to watch him. ¡°You know you don¡¯t need to stay with me? I am a big girl and I can take care of myself¡±


    ¡°Yeah you can and with that foot too,¡± he said in a mocking tone.


    ¡°I won¡¯t be in this situation if not for someone¡± she murmured as she picked up her phone and pretended to tap away on it.


    ¡°I am sorry¡±


    She lifted her head to him. She did not expect him to apologize. It was not entirely his fault she was in that situation. She has foolishly done something. What was she thinking anyway? She was not athletic so why would she think of going a long jump across the hood of the car?


    ¡°Your apologizing makes me feel weirded out about the situation¡±


    ¡°What?¡± he asked in shock.


    ¡°I mean, I know it was a foolish thing for me to jump over the hood of the car and I only did that because you were giving me an extremely hard time, but your apologizing for giving me a hard time now makes me feel more foolish about my choices¡±


    ¡°I only said it because I am, if I am sorry then why can¡¯t I say it?¡±


    ¡°It is just that I feel like I am reflecting on all the choices I have made recently. Did I make good choices or am I just winging it?¡±


    Kieran could sense that the discussion was taking an emotional turn and he was sure they were not close enough to have such discussions with each other.


    They might have known each other as children but that rtionship did not mature and they were not in the same league.


    ¡°Are you sure you want to talk about things like this with me?¡± he asked and she lifted her head to him. Her face conveyed the confusion brewing in her. ¡°I am only saying so because you might end up spilling and then regretting itter¡±


    He was so wise and she felt it, why would she want to begin to talk about the foolish decisions she made recently to him? They were not close at all. The only reason she was in this room with him was because of a decision like the one she was about to make.


    She cleared her throat and looked around. The silence would be awakward and she would rather go anything else but she knew talking would ease it all.


    ¡°So what made you go into the publishing industry?¡±


    ¡°It is a very lucrative business¡±


    ¡°Money?¡±


    ¡°Yes money¡±


    She was shocked. Of all the people she knew who were in the same industry as her most of them were there because of passion this was the first of its kind.


    ¡°So you are money-driven?¡± she asked him.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t everyone money-driven?¡±


    ¡°I am doing this because of my passion fot hard copy books and how much I want others to read such masterpieces by the authors¡± she answered.


    ¡°Well if that was the reason then you won¡¯t collect any sry, you won¡¯t have to leave Japan toe all the way here for this job,¡± he tells her.


    She opens her mouth but her head goes nk. She tried to think deep of anything she could say to counter what he had just said. She was not money-driven. She really did want people around to read those stories and have great dreams like her.


    ¡°See that, you can¡¯t counter that¡±


    ¡°The only reason we collect a sry is to survive¡±


    ¡°So we need money to survive but we refuse to ept that money drives us? Humans are peculiar don¡¯t you agree?¡± he asks standing up.


    ¡°I do not agree with your philosophy but I do not have any points to counter you so I am going to let it be¡± she says and she watched the corners if his mouth lift up briefly before they drop back.


    ¡°I have to go check why the doctor is yet toe here¡± he walks to the door and stops before he opens it to stare at her.


    She diverts her eyes to avoid it looking like she was staring at him. ¡°I will be back¡± he said opening the door and leaving.


    She takes a deep breath and closes her eyes. Why was he right? She hated that he said the truth and that it was not the truth in her eyes and that there was nothing she could use to defend herself.


    While she was still trying to organize her thoughts he enters back and stood with the closed door behind him. ¡°He would be here shortly¡± he walks back to the chair he had been sitting on.


    ¡°Oh my,¡± he said suddenly causing her to raise her head to meet his gaze.


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    ¡°Would you like something to eat?¡±


    ¡°No, I am fine thank you¡±


    His thoughtfulness somehow touched her. It was weird because usually men would not think that far when dealing with others. Was it because he was older than her?N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°Still I think you will need something, you have been prescribed pain killers right?¡±


    ¡°Yes I have been prescribed but I doubt if I have been given any because it still hurts¡±


    ¡°I would step out to get something for you to eat quickly, I am sure they would attend to you soon¡± he said standing up and picking up the keys on the table again.


    ¡°I am good¡± she echoed as he walked to the door.

 XXXIV

    The doctor walked in with a smile on his face and a folder in hand. ¡°How do you feel?¡± he asked looking at her. He looked so handsome that she could not help but be drawn to his beauty. She stared at him.


    He snapped his fingers in her face and her eyes jumped to life and blushed uncontrobly before she tried her best to gather herself together. ¡°I asked how you feel¡±


    ¡°My leg hurts so badly¡± shements trying to mask her expression of embarrassment.


    ¡°I have prescribed some injections of painkillers and you will be given them soon. Just get someone who can get you something tangible to eat¡±


    ¡°Someone is already going that¡± she replied.


    ¡°Okay good then, as soon as you eat ring the bell at the bedside to alert the nurses who will help you¡±


    ¡°Thank you, doctor, what are the results of the test?¡±


    ¡°Oh yes, you have a little sprain on your left ankle so even if you get dischargedter tonight be careful using the legs. I will write a note for you to have crutches assigned to you¡± he says.


    ¡°I will have to use crutches?¡± she asked afraid. She recalled when the extreme bullying took to her and she had a broken leg. It made her use crutches for three months. The wounds were intense. That was when her mom started paying more attention than ever and even proceeded to change her school against all odds.


    ¡°Yes, but you will probably only use it for a week or so. I noticed you had prior broken bones in the same leg, so using a crutch would help heal faster, ¡± he exins. ¡°Are there any other questions you might want to ask?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°No that will be all. Thank you so much¡±


    ¡°Once you have your meal ensure you get your injections and you will be discharged by the painkillers wear off¡±


    He turned to leave and met Kieran at the door. ¡°Hello,¡± the doctor said to him. Seeing them together was obvious that the doctor and Kieran were the same age.


    ¡°You are the doctor yeah? U hope she is alright?¡±


    ¡°Are you a rtive of hers?¡±


    ¡°She is like a sister to me¡± Kieran replied. Arabe could not agree more. They were meant to be siblings in the eyes of others. She could swear that she was him sighing in relief quietly.


    ¡°I have exined the situation to her and she is fine so you do not need to worry¡± he exined.


    ¡°But I did not hear anything about the test result from you?¡± Kieran asked.


    ¡°As I said I already exined the situation to the patient¡±


    Kieran¡¯s eyes fell on her and she nodded affirmative. Why did it feel to her as if they were about to fight about the test result? Kieran moved away from beside him to the soda and table in the room.


    ¡°Thank you Doctor¡± she shouted after him.


    ¡°What did he say?¡± Kieran came to stand beside her immediately the door shut.


    ¡°Easy sir¡± she said with a smirk.


    ¡°I have been worried about what the result said and why they took so long to bring it by¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s just a simple sprain so I would be given crutches to use for the main time¡±


    ¡°You would have to use crutches for the main time?¡± Kieran asked stunned. She said it so casually it actually shocked him. Why would she say it like it is something someone should be used to?


    ¡°Yes but maybe a week or two¡±


    ¡°Why do you say it so casually?¡± he asked back unable to hide his shock.


    ¡°Because it is not the first time. I have used it once before¡±


    ¡°Ohh¡± he eximed. He was notfortable with her familiarity with the crutches but what could he say?


    She exined to him that the doctor asked her to have a meal and then asked the nurses to give her injections and then when the effect wore off she could go home. He had asked countless times if it was okay for her to just go home like that and she had assured him. His face gave him away that he was not convinced but he had no choice but to ept because she insisted.


    ¡°What do I tell your mom?¡± she asked sleepily.


    The injection given to her was to make her dizzy and then fall asleep after a while. She was concerned about how worried Everly would be when she saw her on a crutch.


    ¡°I will think of something do not worry¡±


    ¡°Why do you have to think of something all by yourself when I put us in this mess?¡± she spoke so slowly it took all that Kieran had fit him to understand clearly and fully what it was she was trying to say.


    ¡°You sound so drunk¡±


    ¡°No I don¡¯t¡± she slurred making him chuckle a little.


    ¡°So you dough?¡± she asked slowly to herself but he was able to pick out the words she said.


    ¡°Is there any human who does not?¡± he asked amused by her theory.


    ¡°You sound like someone who had been drinking for hours. If you do not want me toe up with a solution all by myself we cane up with one once you are awake and fully alert¡± he suggested.


    She nodded to herself. She could not help but deny that he gave very nice solutions to problems she had faced all day.


    ¡°I am so sad that I missed seeing Michelle Michigan¡± she murmured


    ¡°You have been told not to worry,¡± he said looking up from his phone. Her eyes were closed but her lips did not seem to stop speaking. When he did not hear her voice again he nced back at his phone screen.


    Aurora had sent a message saying she was worried about him. He wondered how she still dared to still text him after his brutal rejection. She must be very brave to do so.


    ¡°Kieran?¡±


    He looked up and noticed her eyes were closed. He wondered what she was trying to say. He paused and waited for her to continue.


    ¡°Thank you for everything today. I wonder what I would have done without you¡±

 XXXV

    It took a whole lot to convince Everly that Arabe was fine. She was bothered about what Ava would say. Arabe had spent barely a week and she was already getting injured. She loves thepany of the young girl and does not want the mom to get paranoid about it and ask her toe back home.


    She had to report the incident to her friend. Despite the pleas from her son and Arabe she still went ahead to tell Ava about how injured her daughter was. Trust a mom to exaggerate the situation.


    Ava demanded a video call to see her daughter. She did not believe that her daughter fell down the stairs. At the end of the day they both went with the easy option because they had no intention of over-exining anything.


    ¡°Mom any can fall down the stairs,¡± Arabe said the nth time.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°If you insist,¡± Ava said shortly. ¡°So you spent your day in the hospital? Barely three days after starting at your new ce of work?¡±


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be more bothered about my well-being than my ce of work?¡±


    ¡°I was bothered about you but you are hiding things from me now¡±


    ¡°Mome on what is so hard about believing that I was so excited to meet my best author in the world and I missed my step and fell off the stairs breaking my ankle,¡± she asked.


    ¡°The story is believable alright¡± Ava started. ¡°What is unbelievable anyway is how you keep saying the same thing as if you had it memorized¡±


    ¡°Oh well, it¡¯s kind of sad you think this way¡± Arabe knew that the best way for her to sessfully of the situation unharmed was for her to guilt trip her way out of the situation like a child would do.


    ¡°Arabe, do not try that with me¡± Ava warned. Arabe stuck her tongue to the roof of her mouth and tsked in annoyance.


    ¡°Okay, so I want to freshen up and then go to bed. Some I still want to sleep even after sleeping for so long at the hospital¡± she exined.


    ¡°Let me know once you are done¡±


    ¡°I will leave a message for you¡± She did not want to speak again with her mom because she was so close to making her spill the secret. How could the ssic guilt trip form not work? She wondered if it ever worked or if her mom always just let her have her way.


    ¡°Send my love to Seraphina too,¡± she said before cutting the call. She dropped the phone on the bed and plopped on it. She enjoyed how the soft sheets molded into her skin. She loved the scent of the room. She closed her eyes and hoped she did not fall asleep in thefort of the sheets.


    She needed to wash off and then she could enjoy the sheets. She stood up before she was tempted to sleep just like that. She entered the bathroom and cleaned up before she came out and dried off. She wore her nightie and sent a text to her mom.


    Sheid on the bed and her eyes closed but a text on her phone woke her up. She was usually less concerned about text but she needed to know if her mom was the one replying to her message.


    ¡®Hey it is Mark, I was your doctor today at the hospital. I know it is unprofessional of me to take your number and text you out for personal reasons but I thought you were really cute and I would love it if we could have some coffee sometime soon


    She wanted to scream out in disbelief. He thought she was cute? It was a miracle because she thought him to be a Greek god in human clothing. She quickly saved his number.


    She might not be looking for anything long-term term but she could not pass up the opportunity to meet up with him. Who knows they might not even click when they meet. She sent a text back to him.


    ¡®Oh Hello Mark, it¡¯s Arabe, I guess you already know that. Thank you so much for thepliment and yes I would love to have coffee with you sometime


    ¡®Oh my god, I am so relieved to hear it. I had my fingers crossed, because what are the odds a pretty woman like you would be single I guess the stars are on my side tonight. I do hope you feel much better than when I left you


    To her, it was a miracle that he texted in the first ce and here he was sending a reply. Maybe this was a sign? She did not believe in coincidences.


    ¡®I do feel much better, I want to go to bed now, can we fix a date during the day tomorrow? Probably sometime when I have healed fully¡¯


    ¡®Sure, pardon my manners for keeping you awake sote. I will give you a call if that is okay with you


    He was going to call her? She had never had such an experience before and it felt surreal like she was above watching her body do all things.


    ¡®Okay then Good night Mark¡¯


    ¡®Good night Arabe¡¯


    She stood up with a sigh and plugged her phone into the wall socket. She did not want to have a t battery when he might be trying to reach her. Shey down and waited for sleep to take her to dreand. It was less than ten minutes when she was now sleeping so very soundly.


    Since she was not going to work she had no ns of waking up early but the call from Chole who was calling to check up on her. Shezily answered the call but was unable to go back to bed because now she had woken up against her will.


    She was staring at her phone when a text from Mark dropped. She heard her heart rate increase and butterflies pping in her tummy.


    ¡®Hi, Arabe I have to go to work this morning. I will give you a call during my lunch break, I hope that is okay?¡¯

 XXXVI

    Jessica did not know what about the text made her feel jelly, maybe it would be because this was the first person who had shown interest in her in a long while. She tried topose herself but she knew for a fact that she would be singing so happily in the shower this morning.


    She replied to the message and then it on her robe. She wanted to thank Kieran for yesterday but she still wanted to avoid him at all costs. She did not know why but she felt the need to do so.


    As gently and slowly as she could get she climbed down the stairs and waited down at the table. When Everly saw her she was joyed.


    ¡°I was thinking of bringing your breakfast to you but here you are already¡±


    ¡°I have to exercise the legs so it can heal faster¡± she replied with a smile.


    ¡°That makes sense¡±


    ¡°Is Kieran still at home or has he gone to work?¡±


    ¡°I just hope you are not thinking of going to work?¡±


    ¡°Even if I wanted to I know I would just be a nuisance who can not get any work done to my colleagues¡±


    ¡°Of course, you have made the right decision¡± Everly praised her. ¡°Would you have breakfast with us or do you have anything in particr that you might want to eat?¡±


    ¡°I do not¡± Arabe answered. She did not want to be treated differently in the house. ¡°So is Kieran still home?¡± she asked again.


    ¡°He said he had to rush out for an important meeting or something like that¡± she answered casually before going into the kitchen.


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat,¡± she said dropping the dish in hand to the table.


    ¡°What of Ethan?¡± Arabe asked seeing that her husband was not at the table and she made no move to call him out.


    She did not want to be a part of whatever was going on with them but she felt the need to ask so she seemed like a nice house guest to them


    ¡°He should be somewhere around inside¡± Everly replied in a dismissing tone. It was obvious she did not want to talk about it and Arabe was at least grown enough to be able to read the room.


    ¡°I am so sorry that I won¡¯t be able to take you out this weekend again,¡± Arabe said suddenly in between the meals.


    ¡°Why would you be sorry? It is not as if you bailed on purpose or you just decided to not go again. The reason you can¡¯t go is because you are injured and I can not ask you to still take me along when you are not even able to walk down the stairs all by yourself¡± Everly rambled on.


    ¡°I should still apologize because it seems like going back on my word given¡±


    ¡°I envy Ava,¡± Everly said. Arabe did not know how to respond so she stuffed her mouth with a forkful of pancakes. Everlyughed when she saw her action. ¡°I should have had a daughter or maybe more than one child¡±


    ¡°But Kieran is such a thoughtful and kind person¡± Arabemented.


    ¡°Really? What gave you that impression?¡± Everly asked.


    It was the first time she heard someone refer to her son as someone thoughtful and kind. Kieran was always referred to as someone aloof and ignorant of others¡¯ feelings. He barely spoke and when he managed to do so his words cut deep and roughly like a blunt knife trying to cut through butchered meat.


    ¡°Well, yesterday he was really helpful and got me a meal before the doctor asked him to do so. It seemed like he knew his way around the hospital so much as if he had been there for a long time¡±


    ¡°Oh really?¡± Everly could not hide her shock about the matter. She has often begged her son to pay the slightest attention to her but he treated her just the same way his father did. It was one of the things that caused depression and loneliness for the woman.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Arabe nodded. Everly studied her face. I did not look like she was trying to blow the trumpet of Kieran she was just being a pure soul telling the truth.


    After they had breakfast Arabe began the tedious process of climbing up the stairs with one leg resting on the crutch and the other one carrying the whole weight of her body. She was d she was already halfway through the stairs when she began to hear the argument between Everly and Ethan.


    From the conversation, she could hear Ethan was demanding to know why he was skipped from breakfast meal preparations and Everly was insisting that she did not skip him but wanted him to experience making a meal for himself. Everly wanted him to begin to appreciate her efforts but it seemed like he was not getting it.


    Arabe sighed as she entered the room and closed the door behind her. She was d their over-the-top shooting voices were drowned by the distance and the walls between them. She sat down on the bed.


    Seeing she had no friends she wanted to give her sister the details of the doctor and how it all transpired. She opened her phone only to receive a message from him.


    Hi, I just thought to check on you. Hope your leg is feeling better. If you don¡¯t feel better maybe you cane to the hospital for a consultation.


    He ended the text message with a winky eye emoji. Was he trying to be filthy? Was he a natural born sweet talker or did he find her cute?Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    She felt butterflies but it felt like they were in the wrong direction. She has never had so much attention from one person on her. To herself, she had always been invisible or so she thought.


    She did not know how she was supposed to respond to him. She knew not responding might be wrong but it was the best option for her. She dropped the phone to the bed andy down on her back.


    Her phone began to ring and it was Mark.

 XXXVII

    The phone dropped from her hand to the bed and her heart dropped to her stomach. What was the reason he was calling her? She did not want to make any assumptions so she picked up and put the phone to her ear.


    ¡°I hope I am not disrupting your work?¡± he asked. His voice was gentle and quiet. She wanted to close her eyes and hear him speak for a long while.


    ¡°No¡± she answered sharply and regretted it immediately. Her answer made it seem as if she was at war with him.


    ¡°Am I perhaps calling at the wrong time?¡± he followed up. His question made her know that she came off as sharp and rude.


    ¡°No I am not at work or doing anything at the moment¡± she answered. She wanted to go into details of how she just finished breakfast and the next thing to do was for her to freshen up but she decided against it. She had not known that man for up to twenty-four hours why should he know so many details?


    ¡°Then why it did take you so long to pick up?¡± he sounded so gentle that even though she thought he was being rude and too straightforward she could not find it within her to get angry at him.


    She paused on the line. She did not know what his intentions were and she did not want to give in too much to him. He noticed the silence and shifted ufortably.


    ¡°I sent you a message¡± he decides to say instead of waiting for her to answer his earlier message.


    ¡°I saw it¡±


    ¡°But you did not reply?¡± he asked and she paused again.


    She was not chased around frequently but it sure did not sound like he was interested in her. It seemed like he wanted her to be with him so he could pump his ego. She had spent barely a few minutes with him on the phone yet she could hear the narcissism oozing out so greatly from each word he spoke.


    ¡°I want to do something so I will say bye now,¡± she said and then cut off the call without waiting for him to respond.


    So what if he was so breathtaking she could not stop thinking about his carefully crafted face? How was she to cope if he could not help but make the whole conversation revolve around him?


    She dropped the phone on the bed again. She was not going to entertain him again because she knew that his visuals would be a strong reason why she should go to him.


    The phone vibrated with a text. She knew she did not want to entertain him but she wanted to see what he said.


    Arabe stared in awe at her phone. Was this guy just in right dumb or was he ignorant? She could not decide. Did he not even feel the narcissism he was oozing out? She had the urge to call him out instead of letting him be. She put the phone to her ear and he picked up before the first ring.


    ¡°I am sorry,¡± he said without letting her speak.


    ¡°For what?¡± she eximed. She was even get to tell him what she had seen that he did wrong but he was already sorry? Was it a green or red g?


    ¡°I was only trying to make light of the situation. You sounded too stiff and I know it might be ufortable for you so¡­¡± he trailed offN?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°What?¡± she did not know if he was being serious or not but she could barely wrap her mind around the situation.


    ¡°I did not want you to sound so formal and ufortable around me¡± he continued. ¡°I know I took the wrong approach, it was wrong of me and I hope you can forgive me for that¡±


    ¡°You were trying to make me feelfortable with you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know I did foolish things but please do not be angry with me. I would still very much like that coffee date¡±


    She was speechless. If she was being honest his apology sounded thoughtful and heartfelt. It did not sound like he was saying it for saying sake. After all, she had fallen for his gentle calm voice. She could not deny it.


    ¡°Okay then,  I guess everyone deserves a second chance¡± she breathed out.


    She barely knew him so why could she not cut him some ck? If she was to date him it would give a perfect excuse for her mom on why she wanted to move out of the house. Yeah, she was getting free amodation but she knew that she would never fully breathe and be liberated if she was under the watchful eyes of Everly.


    She had to give dating a chance. She might not know it but it might turn out to be something wonderful. She hoped it was something wonderful. She kept the chat short and as graceful as she could help her mind casually wandered to Kieran.


    He acted so cool and thoughtful yesterday why did he not check up on her before he left? Was he just pretending to save face in front of her? Did he do all he did because it was his fault she got injured in the first ce? Was the thoughtfulness just another human emotion or intention she probably misread?


    ¡°Whatever¡± she eximed dropping her phone to the bed.

 XXXVIII

    In no time Arabe was well and able to resume back to work. It was her first day at work after almost two weeks it felt like she was just resuming all over again.


    ¡°I am so excited to see you¡± Chole squealed as she looped her hands into Arabe¡¯s arm. Arabe studied her face. This girl barely knew her so why was she so excited to see her?


    ¡°I am dead serious¡± Chole added when she read the expression on her face. Chole knew it might be hard to believe what she was saying but she was only being sincere with her. She indeed missed her.


    Maybe she was getting ahead of herself and getting overly excited that she might finally have someone to call a friend in her. She had been lonely in the office especially because of her tank at work.


    ¡°I guess I missed you too,¡± Arabe said.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    Chole smiled toothily which gave her a warm feeling. ¡°You don¡¯t have to say it if you don¡¯t mean it yet, I am sure you will mean it very soon,¡± she said with a wink.


    Arabe was thrown back by her strong and courageous personality. She spoke like she was sure or maybe she had seen the future and knew what was going to happen.


    ¡°You resumed finally,¡± a voice said from behind them.


    Arabe spent only a few days at work before she had to go for the sick leave but the torment she got from the voice she just heard was not one to be forgotten in a hurry.


    Both girls turned to face Aurora standing there with a taunting smile sttered across her face. Chloe¡¯s grip tightened on Arabe¡¯s arms.


    ¡°I just got better now¡± Arabe replied with a gulp. She knows that she had said that she would try and butter up the woman and make sure she escaped her torment. Looking back at her again made her think otherwise. It did not feel like a wise thing to do.


    ¡°Well then I am d¡± Her voice sounded like she did not mean it and her expression proved the fact that Arabe was not just being paranoid. ¡°You resumed back to work after taking almost two weeks off, do you want us to throw you a party?¡± she asked.


    ¡°What?¡± Arabe was confused. She had barely been standing at the office grounds for thirty minutes what about her suggested she wanted a party?


    ¡°Well since you have refused to get to work, I was wondering if you wanted us to get confetti and throw you an borate party to wee you back to work¡± she added.


    Arabe sighed. This woman was one who definitely would not back down but would showcase pettiness at every given opportunity.


    ¡°What would you have me do?¡± Arabe finally said after running all the possible ways to be rude in her head and finally settling on trying to keep her dignity as an officer worker.


    ¡°Both of you to my office immediately,¡± she said and walked away.


    Chole smiled again at Arabe. ¡°Shall we go see what the devil wants?¡±


    ¡°Chole¡± Arabe gasped lowly.


    ¡°What? It¡¯s not like I am telling lies¡±


    Arabe had received a big order from her immediate boss. she promised herself that no matter what Aurora decided to do to her she would not regreting all the way here from her hometown.


    ¡°Oh trust me, Ara, I never lie, that woman is the devil,¡± Chole said as they walked to their cubicles.


    ¡°I will not correct you on that matter,¡± Arabe said as she pulled out her chair and dropped her bag to the table while dropping into the chair. it was quite difficult to resume back to work after not doing anything for a while. the hour she had spent in Aurora¡¯s office was full of torment for her.


    she noticed that her table and chair had been wiped clean. ¡°Oh my god Chole, thank you for wiping down my table and chair¡± she voiced out as she pulled the wheeled chair closer to the table, the wheels making slow sounds as they moved.


    ¡°I did not do that,¡± Chole said tapping away on her openptop.


    Arabe was sure it could only be Chole who would do such a thing for her. Among all her colleagues, Chole was the one who checked up on her the most while she was resting up after the ident.


    ¡°Who then?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°Aaron¡± Chole said gently before raising her head to give her a wink.


    ¡°What was that for?¡± Arabe asked as she tried to maintain eye contact with her.


    ¡°It seems Aaron has a thing for you¡±


    ¡°Impossible,¡± Arabe said with almost a shout. If he did have a thing for her she would have heard from him in the two weeks but he did not for once send a message or put a call through to her.


    ¡°You should always trust my hunch,¡± Chole said.


    Arabe did not want to talk about it. She did not want to even think about it, she had to reply to the cute doctor and finally give him a day for their date since she had finally left the house but she was skeptical. His apology was one a girl would appreciate but it still did not sit well with her. She had assured herself countless times that a single date would not hurt her and Seraphina was also trying her best to cheer her on.


    ¡°Where is everyone anyways?¡± Arabe asked as her eyes darted everywhere in the house.


    she had noticed that Kieran left the house quite earlier than usual and he did not take her along even after he knew was resuming today. After the incident, he went back to being his cold distant self.


    She was the one who told him to let her be but she was surprised he took it to heart and went all the way. She had quite difficulty trying to sync together the bus run times and almost missed her bus this morning.


    ¡°They went for a retreat¡±


    ¡°Why did we not go too?¡± Arabe asked. she had always seen how movies portrayed retreat and how it might be a good time for her to bond with her workmates. She was not entirely interested but thought it might be fun.


    ¡°Because you did note to work for long hence wegged on our schedule,¡± Aurora said standing in the distance.


    ¡°I expect you both to get on with the work I delegated and not sit there chatting away the time¡± she added.


    Arabe cleared her throat and stood to her feet. she tilted her head and smiled with a tiny bit of anger in them. ¡°On them ma¡¯am¡±

 XXXIX

    Arabe trudged home as she was barely able to lift her body. As she made it to the entrance of the mansion where she now lived her phone vibrated in her pocket. She sighed as she pulled it out and looked at the screen.


    She shook her head in annoyance as she forgot what she had to do. Aurora had given her so much work, that it was as if she was working hard to make sure she quit the job. She had eaten her lunch while printing out a whole manuscript to read when she could read it digitally, make corrections to it, and then do the final printing.


    She watched the call ring and then fall into voice mail. She did not want to ignore his call but wanted to be the one to call her back since she promised to do so. The workload she had taken on in a day all by herself was too much and she hoped that Kieran and the others would be back soon so Aurora would not go on with her power trip.


    she opened up her phone and dialed his number back before he would have the opportunity to do so.


    ¡°Hello, Arabe hope you are doing well. I have tried to reach you so many times during the day, I even thought at some point that you were trying your best to avoid me¡± Mark said all at once.


    she was tempted tough at his outburst but thought against it. ¡°I am sorry but I just got to work and had a lot of work to catch up on¡±


    Arabe thought of what could have happened if Aurora had asked her to work overtime. she hated that such a petty woman had the power to do such evil things as such.


    ¡°That¡¯s fine, I was so afraid since you were not reading any of my texts,¡± he said again.


    ¡°I was so busy all day, I could barely do anything but work,¡± Arabe said with a sigh.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    she stood by the door to take the message before she made her way inside. She made up her mind to go to bed immediately after she went inside.


    ¡°That¡¯s no worry, I was less busy so I wanted to hear from you,¡± he said again.


    Arabe wished he would stop speaking like a broken tape and go straight to the point.


    ¡°Are we still on for the¡­¡± he trailed off.


    Arabe in that moment thought of all the fictional men she knew and how courageous they were. how was she to say yes when he could barely get to the end of her sentence?


    ¡°We could go this Sunday, I have to take my house host out for shopping¡± she suggested. if she left it for him they might never fix a date.


    ¡°That could work for me, I have a night shift so I am free till five pm¡±


    ¡°Wonderful then, pick a ce and time and send me the details¡±


    ¡± I sure will¡± The excitement in his voice was evident. ¡°Is that a date?¡±


    Arabe chuckled inwardly at his subtle attempt to turn a harmless meeting into something romantic.


    ¡°Sure it¡¯s a date, Good night Mark¡±


    ¡°Oh my goodness,¡± Arabe screamed and felt her soul leave her body when she heard someone clear their throat from behind her.


    she stood there to have some privacy and get the call over with she did not expect anyone to be there. she slowly turned her head to face whoever it was behind her.


    her hands on her chest with her bags on the ground when she jumped in fright. Kieran¡¯s eyes shined at her and his lips pursed in a straight line. She did not want to deny that the light from the house shining on him illuminated his beauty the more.


    ¡°I did not hear youe,¡± she said trying her best to y it cool.


    ¡°Yes because I came silently¡± he responded.


    ¡°How long have you been standing there?¡± she asked with a nervous smile. ¡°Did you perhaps overhear my conversation?¡± she asked when he did not reply. he nodded his head and ced one of his hands into his pants pocket.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a date like a date¡± she began but then paused. She did not need to exin to him. He was not her boyfriend or father or even brother.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to exin what goes on in your life to me, I am your boss and I do not need to know those details¡±


    she knew he was right but hearing him saying those things felt like an arrow was thrown straight for her heart and then it was pulled and returned multiple times to make the pain unbearable.


    ¡°Figured that myself¡± she mumbled inaudibly. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± she felt the need to keep the conversation going with him even though his face was unweing.


    ¡°I live here¡± he responded like she was stupid for asking such a question.


    ¡°Yes, I know that,¡± she said as she internally face-palmed forck of a better sentence construct.


    ¡°So why then did you ask?¡± he asked wondering what she was trying to drive at.


    ¡°Well, I heard at work that the reason you left so early in the morning and why you were not at work was because you went for a retreat automatically I did not expect to see you at home today because don¡¯t those thingsst like two or three days?¡± she asked as she wondered what he was doing there.


    ¡°I have better things to do than waste my time staying in a house with strangers and trying my best to bond with them¡±


    The tone of his voice suggested to her that he really hated the idea of the retreat.


    ¡°How I wish I could go¡± she murmured to herself. she turned on her heels. ¡°I should probably let you be, you must be so tired from going back and forth all day¡± The sarcasm in her voice was loud and clear for him to hear.


    he cleared his throat and she smirked as she bent to pick up the bag that fell from her hands earlier. ¡°I am sure you can¡¯t be as tired as I am anyway¡± she added before turning to give him a fake small smile. ¡°Good night anyway,¡± she said and walked away before he could respond.


    For some reason watching her walk away sent a wrong feeling down his stomach. ¡°What is her deal?¡±

 XL

    Kieran stood watching her go, he had been worried about her and that was the reason he left the retreat toe home. He could not tell why he was worried about her but he knew he had toe home and check on her.


    She was fine and he felt stupid for worrying. She was even nning a date with someone. He did not know why the date affected him but he just knew that since she came to live with them he could not sort out his feelings.


    ¡°Honey, why are you standing here looking so lost in thought?¡± Everly¡¯s voice came out of the house snapping him back to reality.


    ¡°What?¡± he said in confusion looking at his mom who was standing at a distance holding the door open.


    ¡°What are you doing at home? I thought you travelled for work?¡± she asked again watching his face and the confused expression she had never seen before cloud his face.


    ¡°I came early¡± he said but it was obvious his mind was not in what he was saying.


    ¡°Is something bothering you?¡± she asked him and he shook his head.


    ¡°Just a little tired,¡± he said. At least it was not a lie, he was tired. How would he exin to his mother that the actions of Arabe were somehow bothering him?


    ¡°Come on or you might catch a cold¡± Everly said before turning to leave.


    She was used to her family leaving her in the dark about everything so she did not mind when Kieran turned down her request to hear him out and know what was going on with him.


    Kieran stepped into the house and watched his mom climb the stairs, he followed in a distance quietly. He needed someone to help him uncover what he was feeling and he did not know who to call.


    He entered his room and sat on his bed trying to scroll through social media when a message came in from Aurora.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡®Are you both happy that you went on a trip without me?¡¯


    Kieran was not sitting beside her but he could hear and feel the annoyance text. Why was she mad? She is the one who decides to let her team sit out the retreat because she does not want him getting closer to Arabe.


    ¡®Dont even try to me us, you decided to sit this one out¡¯ he texted back


    ¡®You should have cancelled altogether if I were not going¡¯ she texted again.


    ¡®Aurora I am sure we have both had a long day and it is gettingte so why don¡¯t we call it a night?¡¯ he sent to her and dropped her phone on the table.


    He stood up and tried his best to freshen up quickly before jumping into bed. He thought about how difficult it had been for him to process the emotions he had been feeling with Arabe the past few days.


    He was feeling something he once felt and he was not sure how he felt about it.


    ¡®Don¡¯t forget our date today¡¯ Arabe blinked multiple times at her phone screen. She had been looking forward to the date all week but now that it was time to go she suddenly did not feel the need to go.


    ¡°Myst I go?¡± she asked herself silently as she stretched under the covers in her bed. ¡°Can I just have today to myself?¡± she added in a low whisper.


    ¡°Arabe Honey¡± Everly knocked on the door lightly waiting for a response.


    ¡°Coming¡± Arabe said jumping up out of bed and then walking toward the door.


    ¡°Good morning darling, are you going to join us for breakfast?¡± Everly asked as soon as her eyesnded on Arabe.


    ¡°Yes, I will¡± Arabe said letting out a slow and contagious yawn.


    ¡°Wonderful be down in a bit,¡± Everly said as she began to walk away. She stopped and then turned back to the girl who had yet to close the door. She had been waiting till she was out of sight before she closed the door so she didn¡¯t seem rude to her.


    ¡°I am having some friends overter in the afternoon, it¡¯s kind of a book club thing but we cover up a little more ground as regards another thing¡± Everly said.


    Arabe could see the hesitation in her eyes. It was as if she had thought about it multiple times before she decided toe clean about it.


    ¡°Yes, do you need help with anything?¡± Arabe offered.


    ¡°Would you?¡± Everly asked her face lighting up in joy.


    ¡°Of course, what can I help you do?¡±


    ¡°Oh I don¡¯t want to burden you with my shenanigans¡± Everly waved her hand in the air and tried to walk away.


    ¡°Come on, you can tell me. I am more than willing to help out¡± Arabe said running out and standing in front of her stopping her from going further.


    ¡°Can you join me to make snacks for them and just say hello to them?¡± Everly asked. ¡°You don¡¯t have to do so if you think it is too much for me to ask¡± she added quickly.


    She did not want to be a burden to the poor girl. She was there to work and not indulge her and her crazy ideas.


    ¡°I think that¡¯s a good idea, I can meet your friends and even learn a thing or two about baking as well,¡± Arabe said.


    A smile crept its way up her face and no matter how hard she tried to hide her expression one could tell from a mile away that she was overjoyed.


    ¡°Would that be all?¡± Arabe asked. Maybe something coulde up that would make her not to be able to make it out for the date.


    ¡°That is more than enough for me¡± Everly replied rubbing her hand fondly. ¡°Be down for breakfast¡± she added before walking away. She was afraid that she might begin to cry tears of joy in front of her so she needed to be gone.


    ¡°So cooking and entertaining older women? Piece of cake¡±

 XLI

    ¡°Hello ma¡¯am¡± Mark said as Everly opened the door.


    Everly¡¯s eye went up and down his body like she was essing him. ¡°Who are you and how may I help you?¡± she said with a smile on her face.


    She had been unable to stop smiling ever since Arabe agreed to help her in the morning. She had so much fun in the kitchen while trying to teach Arabe how to make some snacks.


    The women in her clubplimented Arabe¡¯s manner so much it made her feel so good, she even felt like she was the one who had trained her all this year.


    ¡°I am Mark and I am here for Arabe,¡± Mark said.


    He had insisted toe pick her up at home saying it was bad manners to allow her toe to the venue all by herself. She did not want him to do so but had to agree since he was not giving up the idea.


    ¡°Oh, she did not tell me she was expecting a guess or else I would have prepared something for you¡± Everly said ushering him in.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    She wondered where she had met such an eye candy because she never left the house. ¡°Come in¡± Everly said.


    She had just seen her guest off and now she was already entertaining another one. She felt her house bubbling with life and it reminded her of why she wanted more children. If she had other children aside from Kieran she was sure that at least one would be interested in spending time with her.


    ¡°I will let Arabe know that you are here,¡± Everly said and walked into the kitchen where Arabe was standing sipping a cup of water.


    ¡°You did not tell me you had a date?¡± Everly used and saw Arabe¡¯s face go white with shock.


    ¡°Oh my god,¡± she said while quickly dropping the cup to the countertop. ¡°Is he here? what is the time?¡± she said and her face scrunched up because it was still an hour away from the agreed time.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Everly asked her eyes falling on the clock that Arabe was staring at.


    ¡°I still have an hour before the date¡±


    ¡°So it is a date,¡± Everly said in a teasing voice.


    ¡°No, it is not¡± Arabe jumped to defend herself.


    ¡°Then what is it when two beautiful people go out together?¡± Everly asked. ¡°You know you are a genius so you should know¡±


    ¡°I am not a genius¡± Arabe murmured.


    ¡°So where did you meet him?¡± she asked wanting to know everything about the man sitting on her couch now.


    ¡°At the hospital when I went in for treatment¡± Arabe said taking up her cup and downing the whole content into her mouth.


    ¡°And he is interested in you isn¡¯t he?¡±


    ¡°Apparently so because he asked for a date and I just agreed so he would let me be,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°It¡¯s so nice to be young¡± Everly said taking a handful of Arabe¡¯s hair and tucking it behind her ears.


    ¡°I better get going¡± Arabe said dropping the cup to the kitchen sink behind her.


    ¡°Arabe?¡± Everly said stopping her before she left the kitchen.


    ¡°If he asks you out, you should ept it and date as much as you are when you are young¡± she added.


    ¡°Mom, do you always give bad advice?¡±


    ¡°Mom, why do you always give bad advice?¡± Kieran asked as he walked into the kitchen.


    ¡°What do you mean by bad advice?¡± Everly muttered.


    ¡°How can she date him just because he asks her?¡± he asked walking towards the kitchen and opening it.


    ¡°Two mature people can date, Arabe is mature and can choose whoever she wants to date¡± Everly said in a deep voice.


    She hated it whenever her son decided to tell her off on any matter. What was so bad about her advising a young girl to date and live a little?


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t they first get to know each other before they jump to the dating stage?¡± Kieran asked pulling out a jug of juice.


    ¡°Why should they waste their time getting to know each other when they can get to know each other as the date?¡± Everly stroked her chin as she tilted her head to watch her son.


    ¡°What an outdated thing to say¡± Arabe finally jumped in.


    ¡°Outdated?¡± Kieran scoffed as he turned to her. ¡°Are you just going to trust anyone and begin to date them?¡± he added walking to pick a ss.


    ¡°I think we are all getting ahead of ourselves. This is just a friendly dinner date between the both of us so no need for us to begin to debate about the right time to date¡± Arabe said facing Everly.


    She knew that the woman only wanted her to have a good time and wished her the best. It was obvious from the way she treated her.


    ¡°And you Kieran, your mom gave one of the best ideas ever, if you like someone and you want that person you should ask them to date you and if you don¡¯t need to know a person before you can date, we aren¡¯t in the neenth century¡± she added facing him before walking away.


    ¡°She just schooled us both didn¡¯t she?¡± Everly asked with a smallugh as she faced her son.


    ¡°Seems as though¡± Kieran said taking a sip from the cup he had poured for himself.


    ¡°I better go keep our guest entertained¡± Kieran said returning the jug to the refrigerator and walking out of the kitchen leaving Everly alone there.


    ¡°I should give him some muffins and something to drink¡± Everly said going to rummage through her store of pastry.


    ¡°Hello, you are that doctor from the other day, I did not know you always provided home services for your patients too,¡± Kieran said as he sat down a few seats beside him.


    ¡°What?¡± Mark said confused as to what he was implying.


    ¡°I am Kieran¡± he said stretching his hands to him.


    ¡°Mark¡±


    ¡°I know you and your name too,¡± Kieran said and then took a sip of his cup resting his back on the couch.


    ¡°Are you Arabe¡¯s brother?¡± Mark asked trying to make a conversation and ignore the hard stareing from him.


    ¡°No,¡± Kieran said crossing his legs and taking a sip of his juice.


    ¡°What?¡± it would be understandable if he was her brother and staring at him like that but if he was not then what is his deal?


    ¡°You asked if she is my sister and I replied you¡± Kieran said with a sarcastic smile.


    ¡°You did,¡± Mark said nodding his head.

 XLII

    ¡°Did you wait long?¡± Arabe askeding down the stairs into the sitting room.


    ¡°I did not and I was the one who arrived an hour earlier¡± Mark said standing up to meet her. ¡°Moreover Kieran here kept me entertained and your mom was really cosy too¡±


    ¡°He did?¡± Arabe asked raising her eyebrow at Kieran. He barely spoke so how was he supposed to keep another person entertained?


    ¡°Yeah¡±


    Kieran stood up as if they were not just talking about him. ¡°We will get going now¡± Arabe announced to the man who decided it was nice to just walk away without saying anything.


    ¡°Be back early¡± Kieran said turning to face them.


    ¡°What?¡± Arabe asked shocked at what he was trying to say.


    ¡°Be back early, you don¡¯t want to spend your night out in the city¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Oh don¡¯t worry about that I will make sure she is back safe and sound¡± Mark said.


    ¡°I was not talking to you¡± Kieran¡¯s voice sounded as if he was at the edge of snapping at them.


    ¡°I thought that since I was an adult I could stay out till any time I deem fit?¡± Arabe put her hand on her waist and stared deep into the soul of Kieran wondering what he was trying to do.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°These are the rules for those who would be icing here from now going forward,¡± Kieran said and gulped. He felt the words sprouting out of his mouth as if he had no control and he wondered why he was being that way to this man and Arabe.


    ¡°Since when?¡± Arabe asked stepping forward so she could be closer to him.


    There had never been anything such as rules since she lived there so where was thising from even though he wanted rules why was he telling her when she had a visitor over? It was like he was intentionally trying to ruin her mood before she went out.


    ¡°Since today¡± he said stepping forward as if he was ready to go head-on-head with her.


    ¡°Now you are just making up ridiculous sentences,¡± Arabe said almost in a yell.


    She could agree with her he was definitely making up things that he would not do and it was as if his mouth was moving so much faster than his mind couldprehend. His mouth was saying the words even before his brain could process them.


    ¡°Just be home before ten¡± Kieran said and felt a light p on his back.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind his shenanigans¡± Everly said bowing her head to them both. ¡°I wonder why he is being like this¡± she added with a nervousugh.


    ¡°Enjoy your time and be back at whatever time you wish¡± Everly said pulling her son away.


    ¡°Thank you ma¡¯am¡± Mark called after her.


    ¡°Bye,¡± Arabe called as they walked out of the house.


    ¡°Your brother must be really protective of you,¡± Mark said as he started the engine.


    ¡°My brother? who? Kieran?¡± she said and shook her head.


    ¡°He is not my brother¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s really strange¡± Mark said as he put his car into motion.


    ¡°What is?¡± Arabe asked putting on her seatbelt.


    ¡°That he isn¡¯t your brother, he is acting like how a big brother would act when someonees to date his sister¡±


    ¡°Oh please,¡± Arabe said with an eye roll. ¡°He has no capability of acting like a normal human¡± she added.


    ¡°But he was acting just the same way. It was as if he was born to act that way as if he saw me as a threat to you¡± he said and she shook her head.


    ¡°You must have gotten it wrong, he only cares about himself,¡± Arabe said leaning in.


    She wondered why she was thinking of bailing out on this date when he made her feel sofortable like this. The initial weariness and fear she felt about going out with someone gradually wore off when she saw how considerate and kind he was.


    ¡°He was not that way when you were at the hospital¡± Markmented and Arabe shook her head.


    ¡°Really Kieran is what you call an introverted introvert. He is kind of self-centered as well¡±


    ¡°Maybe he likes you?¡± Mark asked.


    ¡°What? don¡¯t say something so absurd¡± she said with a smallugh.


    ¡°How is that absurd? You are a fine woman and any man would like you¡± Markmented.


    His statement made her stomach fireflies get into action. He was being sweet and it made her feel good. Who would not want to hearpliments once in a while?


    ¡°Ohe on, he has not liked a woman in years and unfortunately I happen not to be his type,¡± Arabe told him.


    ¡°How do you know what his type is?¡±


    ¡°Older women I presume,¡± she said with a shrug.


    ¡°He was so on your case when you were at the hospital. He gave us such a hard time all night¡± Mark said. ¡°So I assumed that you were rted¡±


    ¡°He was being so extra that day because he was the one who caused me to have the injury?¡±


    ¡°I would really like to hear that story, what happened?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story and.. ¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to share?¡± he said and sent a sad small smile his way.


    ¡°Don¡¯t take it that way¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine you have a lot more history with him than with me so it¡¯s fine,¡± Mark said raising his hands from the steering wheel.


    ¡°Thank you for understanding¡±


    ¡°Of course¡±


    Suddenly thefortable car became so tense that one could use a scissor to cut through it. Neither of them said anything as they both looked straight ahead at the windscreen.


    ¡°Well, maybe our moms can say they are rted because they have been joined by the hips for as long as I can remember,¡± Arabe told him trying her best to break the sudden silence.


    ¡°Let¡¯s change the topic and talk about something else,¡± Arabe said before he could respond. She did not feel all thatfortable talking about Kieran considering his actions from when she began to live there.


    ¡°What do you want to talk about?¡± Mark asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know maybe the weather?¡± she said as they both burst intoughter.


    ¡°Here we are,¡±


    ?

 XLIII

    ¡°This looks like a really fancy ce,¡± Arabelle said as they were ushered to their seat.


    ¡°What have it away?¡± Mark asked with a teasing smile on his face.


    ¡°Oh I guess it has to be when the man at the door wanted to take my coat¡± Arabe said taking up his teasing voice too.


    ¡°Hope I did not make you ufortable with my gesture. I just wanted you to have a good time¡± Mark asked and Arabe shook her head.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    She could not remember thest time when she had such an opportunity to dine in such an exquisite ce.


    ¡°It¡¯s funny, I have been thinking of bringing myself here¡± she added the teasing tone still in her voice and a threatening teasing smile on her lips.


    ¡°I guess my shrink must know something¡± Mark replied.


    Arabe was d that thefortable air from before returned and they were able to talk to each other like they had known themselves for a while.


    She had wondered what would happen at the restaurant if they had nothing to talk about because of the way she dangerously ruined the mood earlier.


    ¡°I am Alex and I will be serving you today. Would you like to order now?¡± the waiter said stopping at their table with a smile never leaving his face.


    ¡°Can we have the menu and we will decide in five minutes?¡± Mark asked stretching his hands to collect the menu.


    ¡°Sure,¡± the waiter said handing over the menu to them. ¡°I would like to suggest today¡¯s special to you, you getplimentary bread alongside¡± the waiter.


    ¡°Thank you for the suggestion, we will look over it and let you know¡± Arabe said flipping over it. ¡°Can we get water though?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± the waiter said before walking away.


    ¡°Should we just get the special of the day?¡± Arabe whispered as he walked away.


    ¡°Let me get it, you are the type who believes that they should not overstress the waiter so they get whatever is rmended to them and don¡¯t give bad reviews?¡± Mark asked.


    ¡°What? It¡¯s easier than reading through all of these¡± she replied before closing the book in his face and dropping it to the table.


    ¡°Do you also give huge tips?¡± he asked and she frowned.


    ¡°What is this? A future reading? What are you? A shaman?¡± Arabe asked.


    She did not like how he was somehow getting her so much. It felt like he was peering into her soul and made her feel a bit exposed to him.


    ¡°Well that sounds a lot like me¡± He said and it somehow made her feel better immediately.


    ¡°You do?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I was going to get the special until you said you would take a look at the menu¡± he said throwing his hands in the air.


    ¡°For a moment there I thought you were criticizing me a lot for being a kind person¡±


    ¡°Of course not¡± Marsk said and they bothughed.


    ¡°We are both kind people and we should not be criticized for it¡±


    ¡°Can I take your order now?¡± the waiter asked dropping their water to the table.


    They looked at each other and then smiled with a nod. In one voice they said


    ¡°We would get today¡¯s special please¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much for dinner and a lovely conversation,¡± Arabe said as they walked out of the dining hall.


    ¡°I am d you enjoyed it,¡± Mark said. He was suddenly feeling so shy that he wanted the ground to swallow him up at that moment.


    He had done all theplimenting all night long so it was nice for him to hear some positive reviews about the night from her end.


    ¡°I did enjoy it and I won¡¯t be able to eat anything else tonight¡± Arabe said rubbing her excitement. ¡°I am d we took the rmendation of the waiter or else we could have missed out on such a good meal¡± Arabe said and he agreed.


    ¡°I mean being a good person kind of has its benefit doesn¡¯t it?¡± he said and she nodded in agreement.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I will be able to eat Everly¡¯s breakfast and I am not sure she would be happy about it¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Should we take a walk around the area? It might help with rapid digestion¡± Mark suggested.


    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea¡± she said and then paused took a double look at his face and then smiled.


    ¡°What?¡± he asked wondering what was so amusing that she had that kind of expression on her face.


    ¡°You seem smart, I mean extremely smart. Maybe it¡¯s because you are a doctor¡±


    ¡°You need to be really smart to get into medical school,¡± he said.


    His voice sounded serious but his face was a second away from erupting into feats ofughter.


    ¡°I can not tell if you are being serious or not¡± she said and he burst intoughter.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mean to brag but it¡¯s quite difficult not to¡±


    ¡°If I were you, I would have tattooed it to my head so everyone knows what I do¡± Arabe said which pushed him further into moreughter.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I am that funny,¡± she said nervously.


    They spent some time walking around the block and trying to pass the time. Mark was not ready to call it a night and he got the urge to push his luck and see what Kieran would do when she got homete.


    Arabe on the other hand had nothing to do at home so she decided to spend a little more time outside instead. If she went home she would just be held up in her room and the person who instructed he to be home on time would most likely not keep herpany.


    ¡°My legs hurt now¡± Arabe confessed. ¡°Thank God I did not wear heels¡± she added.


    ¡°Should we go back?¡±


    ¡°Yes please¡±


    ¡°You were going to wear heels?¡± Mark asked.


    ¡°My sister said I should do so since it was a date,¡± Arabe said. ¡°She had barged me into doing it but I refused¡±


    ¡°You should not be wearing heels seeing you just hurt your leg?¡± Mark said.


    ¡°That¡¯s even true, I will use that as an excuse next time¡±


    ¡°But you think of this as a date don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Well isn¡¯t it one?¡± Arabe asked confused he was asking her that question. His face became red as it was obvious he was blushing. She found the gesture cute.


    ¡°It is¡±

 XLIV

    ¡°Thank you so much for tonight,¡± Arabe said as they stood outside the door to the house.


    ¡°I am d you had a good time because I would have felt bad if I was the only one having a good time¡± Mark replies with a smile.


    ¡°I did have a good time¡± She returned his smile and he felt good about the situation. At least his friends were wrong when they called him boring. He was dropping a girl after a date and she was smiling.


    ¡°I hope I am not toote to drop you off?¡± Mark asked his eyes weary dancing around the house to see if Kieran was somewhere around.


    ¡°Oh don¡¯t bother about him, I am a big girl,¡± she said as if she had just done something to be extremely proud of.


    ¡°Of course, you are a big girl¡± Mark was teasing her now.


    ¡°Wait that came out all wrong¡± she said with augh at the end of her statement.


    ¡°It did didn¡¯t it?¡± he asked and she nodded.


    ¡°I better get inside now, good night,¡± she said pushing him towards his car.


    ¡°I will only go after I see you go inside¡± he said walking her back to the gate his hands holding hers by the wrist.


    ¡°Hold up,¡± she said wiggling her way out of his grip and raising her hands in the air as if they had been pulled over by a cop.


    ¡°What is it?¡± he asked his eyes darting all around. He even turned back to see in case there was something there he might need to be wary of.


    ¡°I have seen this kind of scene a lot in movies and even read more in books¡± she said and he scratched the edge of his eyebrow in confusion.


    ¡°What scene¡±


    ¡°This one where you tell me to go in and I tell you to go home and then none of us wants to let go¡± she said with a sly expression and then a smirk climbing her lips.


    ¡°You have a weird sense of humour do you know that?¡± he asked feeling his butterflies get into action. He only managed to keep his face from turning blood red as they stood outside in the cold.


    She implied it as if they had been going out and were still not able to get over each other.


    ¡°Weird? No not weird I prefer creative¡± she said and heughed.


    ¡°Sure creative sounds like a better word instead¡± he said and she nodded in agreement. She found the entire day kind of confusing to her because she had never been thisfortable with someone whom she was not close with.


    ¡°Of course it does¡± she replied with a sniffle. She was on the verge of catching a cold and somehow she did not know if she was ready to let go of thefort yet.


    ¡°Go on in, it¡¯s quite chilly so you might catch a cold¡± he said turning her around and then pushing her to the gate.


    ¡°I will only go in now because I do not want to make a scene¡± she said waving at him before pushing the pedestrian part of the gate open.


    ¡°Good night¡± she called to him. ¡°Let me know when you get home¡± she said entering and closing the gate.


    ¡°Good night¡± she heard him through the gate.


    ¡°JESUS CHRIST¡± Arabe screamed as she stepped to the entrance and found a figure squatting right before the door.


    What scared her the most was that she could not see the face of the figure and it seemed like an unidentified object that might be dangerous was just lying casually on the front porch.


    ¡°What are you doing there?¡± Arabe asked her hands on her chest and her soul almost escaped from her body. ¡°You gave me a scare,¡± she said with a long breath.


    ¡°What do you mean by that? This is my mom so I can be wherever I want to be¡± Kieran answered standing and then turning to her.


    ¡°I never said you could not be where you want to be¡± Arabe said with an eye roll as she felt her heart rate begin toe back to normal slowly.


    ¡°Then what are you saying?¡± he asked when she did not reply.


    ¡°Can you calm your panties?¡± she said as she watched his face fall into a deeper frown. Until she met him she had never known that there were levels to frowns but he did them so effortlessly it was scary.


    ¡°Panties?¡± he asked as if the word was something so foreign and forbidden to him.


    ¡°I am trying to catch my breath after you scared me shitless¡± Arabe replied squatting to the ground with her mouth open as she tried to take all the air she could handle at once.


    ¡°Don¡¯t sneak up on anyone like that?¡± she said after a while before standing to her feet.


    ¡°I did not sneak up on you,¡± he said as if he was trying to school her.


    ¡°Why were you crouched in that position on this poorly lit porch?¡± she asked putting her hand on her waist and taking a stance she had seen her grandmother take in previous years.


    ¡°I was just¡­¡± he trailed off. He hade out when he noticed she had note back home after going out with a man she had never met before.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    If he was being honest he did not know why he let her go. It was like he wanted to protect her against everything, especially that man. He could not tell her that he came out for her. What would she think of him?


    ¡°You were?¡± she asked taking one of her eyebrows up.


    ¡°Out for some air¡± he said pointing randomly into the sky.


    ¡°Air? And you were squatting like that?¡± she asked shaking her head at him. ¡°If you really want air then you should take a walk around the area and thene back in after a while¡±


    ¡°Do you want toe with me?¡± Kieran said before his mind could process the words his mouth had said it all.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I asked if you wanted to join me for the walk,¡± he said and he shook her head. He knew that there was no harm in trying and after all the words had left his mouth so lying to cover up would have not been the best for him.


    ¡°No, I am good, my legs hurt so bad after taking a walk with Mark¡± Arabe tells him. ¡°And I also feel a bit cold too¡± she added and he nodded.


    ¡°Don¡¯t stay out toote or you might catch a cold¡±

 XLV

    Arabe wondered why he had acted like that to her. Her phone rang in her pocket and she automatically knew it was going to be her sister. She probably wanted to know how the date went. She answered the call and put the phone to her ears.


    ¡°Tell me all about this guy,¡± Seraphina said as soon as she noticed the call got connected.


    ¡°I am fine, thank you for asking, I had a good day, thank you for asking. How are you and mom too? How was your day? Did you have a good day?¡± Arabe rambled on.


    ¡°Ohe on you are so boring that I know the answer to all those questions without you even saying a word¡± Seraphina whined.


    ¡°What? Are you calling me boring?¡± Arabe shrieked.


    ¡°I am not calling you names, I am just telling you the truth¡± Seraphina responded.


    ¡°I always remembered you as a mean person and you never seem to change¡± Arabe said and Seraphina made a sound to make her know she agreed.


    ¡°I have never been nice so I wonder when people say that she is such a nice person and say things that are so cringe¡± Seraphina said. Arabe shook her head at her sister. She was sure not a normal one.


    ¡°Thank you for calling though¡± Arabe¡¯s voice was so sarcastic it was hard to miss.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care how sarcastic you are, I just want to know about this guy who managed to take our boring dear Arabe out on a date¡±


    ¡°About the guy¡± Arabe said falling to her bed andying with her back on the bed.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°Tell me everything and make sure not to miss a detail¡±


    ¡°So he insisted oning over to the house to pick me up¡±


    ¡°Ohh so he is like a gentleman? Did hee with flowers or a gift?¡±


    ¡°No¡±


    ¡°Ha, that¡¯s minus one point for him. He should have at least something for Aunt Everly¡±


    ¡°How many pints did he have before?¡± Arabe asked curious as to how her sister was doing the grading.


    ¡°One¡±


    ¡°So now he has zero points?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, and I am hoping he gets a chance to redeem himself¡± Seraphina was sounding serious that Arabe was not sure if the grading was for real. ¡°You are not telling me about this gentleman with zero points¡±


    ¡°That is because you keep cutting me off,¡± Arabe said in a harsh voice.


    ¡°Okay no more cutting you off¡± she said making a sound of a zipper closing.


    ¡°So he took me to the restaurant but before we went Kieran was acting so different and weird. He kept talking about a curfew or something like that¡±


    ¡°Kieran did?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡±


    ¡°When you were going for the date? And he did this in front of your date as well?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it was so weird. I have been here for a long time and I have never heard anything about a curfew so it makes no sense for him to say so now¡± Arabe grumbled.


    ¡°Was he waiting outside for you when you got back?¡± Seraphina asked.


    ¡°Not for me, he was out for air¡±


    ¡°Oh my gosh my sister, when did your life get so interesting?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Arabe wondered what nonsense her sister was suddenly talking about now.


    ¡°You have two men interested in you¡±


    ¡°What nonsense are you on about now?¡± Arabe asked with an eye roll.


    ¡°Not nonsense. You had one take you on a date and one who tried to ruin your chances with the other one¡± Seraphina said.


    ¡°Kieran has many other important things to do than to try and ruin my chance and why would he ruin my chance? it¡¯s none of his business¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°This is what you get when you have never dated your entire life, you will always never be able to tell people¡¯s emotions¡± Seraphina said.


    ¡°What do you think this is? A movie set?¡± Arabe asked with a snort.


    ¡°I wish this was a script, I would dly direct this,¡± Seraphina said in a dreamy voice.


    ¡°You are daydreaming for nothing¡± Arabe said telling her sister off.


    ¡°So between Mark and Kieran who do you see as a potential boyfriend?¡±


    ¡°Sera?¡± Arabe whined.


    ¡°What? I just want to know¡± Seraphina teased.


    ¡°This is nothing to tease me about and Kieran is not like that, I think he was just being his normal cranky self from before,¡± Arabe said sitting up and kicking her legs back and forth from the bed.


    ¡°Mark evenmented that he acted like a brother was not ready to give away his sister so I think he might have been worried about me seeing that I was new to the city¡±


    ¡°I see¡±


    ¡°Sera, please stop making plots that are never going to happen in your head and get it over with¡±


    ¡°You can not stop me from making plots in my own head¡± Seraphina¡¯s voice was smooth.


    ¡°How is mom?¡± Arabe asked changing the topic.


    ¡°She is doing fine, you are yet toplete your date experience¡± Seraphina answered casually like she had not asked her such an important question.


    ¡°Can I speak to her?¡± Arabe was going to ignore her sister because she knew that no matter how she tried to clear herself she would continue to create fake universes in her head.


    ¡°No¡± Seraphina¡¯s reply was sharp and short.


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°Because we aren¡¯t done with our own conversation yet¡±


    ¡°What else haven¡¯t I said?¡± Arabe said transferring the phone to the loudspeaker and dropping it onto the bed so her hands could be free.


    ¡°What did you eat? Oh how I wish I was right there with you when you began to go out on dates, I have a lot to teach you about dating¡±


    ¡°I thank my stars that you aren¡¯t here or I might have a few years added to my age and maybe die of worry¡±


    ¡°Ohe on, I know you miss me so much¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t¡±


    ¡°Yeah you do, so what did you eat? Did he order something fancy?¡±


    ¡°Well considering the fact that it was rmended by the waiter we just had it and then afterwards we went for a walk around the area and I came back home¡±


    ¡°So was the meal expensive?¡±


    ¡°What does it matter?¡±


    ¡°It does not I wanted to know if you were having expensive and nice things without me¡±


    ¡°Of course, I have to have nice things without you¡±


    ¡°Ara, I am thrilled for you¡±


    ¡°Once again you are only writing your movie script in thin air¡±

 XLVI

    ¡°Good morning¡± Arabe greeted Everly as she walked into the kitchen to see her staring out the kitchen window with coffee in hand. She was gently sipping from the cup.


    ¡°Oh, good morning darling would you like a cup of coffee?¡± Everly asked turning to face her.


    ¡°Yes, but I will make a cup for myself instead, you can just continue to enjoy the view,¡± Arabe asked walking to the coffee machine to get started.


    ¡°Oh thank you, I just love staring out the window this early in the morning,¡± Everly said tilting her head as if she was looking at a famous painting.


    ¡°I guess thendscape is somewhere worth watching¡± Arabe replied looking out the window briefly before returning to her coffee.


    ¡®You are up early today¡±Everlymented.


    ¡°Unfortunately I can¡¯t really rest today as I want to do some reading and research but I can¡¯t seem to focus on the room¡± Arabe told her.


    She had been up for a while now but had found it hard to make her mind work at all. She had been spacing out all morning while asionally allowing her mind to wander all over the ce.


    Arabe med her sister for putting such thoughts in her head. If she did not hear that two men were probably interested in her she would have been done with her work by now.


    ¡°What I did when I still work, whenever I was having a hard time and was unable to concentrate on my work I usually took time out to clear my mind and afterwards I was good as new¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea, I just need some time out to clear my mind and I am sure I will be back to normal¡± Arabe said.


    The room turned silent and only the humming of the refrigerator and random noises from the coffee machine were heard. Everly was peacefully sipping her coffee while Arabe was waiting for her cup to be filled.


    ¡°What do you think of us catching breakfast somewhere outside? My treat¡± Arabe asked suddenly breaking the silence.


    ¡°Oh really?¡± Everly said turning to her with a big smile across her face.


    ¡°Yeah¡± Arabe said pulling out her cup from underneath the machine that beeped to alert her that it was done.


    ¡°You want to have brunch and you are deciding to invite me?¡±


    ¡°Do you not want toe along or am I not supposed to invite you?¡± Arabe was torn. She did not know what to do now, she could not understand what emotions Everly was showing at that time.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Oh you can invite me but that means I won¡¯t have to cook breakfast¡± Everly said and Arabe nodded.


    ¡°Of course not, you and I go to a nice cosy ce and have a good meal¡± Arabe exined.


    She watched her face to see how a smile climbed up. It was obvious that she liked the idea that Arabelle brought.


    ¡°You have been making breakfast for a long time now, you deserve to be treated to one and since I am not exactly a good cook, I can buy you brunch instead¡±


    ¡°I know a very nice ce¡±


    ¡°Where do you think you are going?¡± Ethan asked when he saw Arabe and Everly hand in hand walking toward the door.


    ¡°Out for breakfast,¡± Everly said in a voice that said ¡®You should know where I am going and not ask me useless questions like this¡¯


    ¡°What about breakfast?¡± Ethan asked his face drawing up in confusion. Where was she going when she had not made anything for him to eat?


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Everly replied blinking rapidly. She wondered why he became so distant from her and began to treat her like a maid all of a sudden. It was as if he was brainwashed.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to make what I would eat for breakfast?¡± Ethan replied.


    ¡°You have two hands don¡¯t you?¡± Everly said and watched him raise his hands to his face.


    ¡°What are you trying to ask?¡±


    ¡°Since you have two hands you can whip up something quickly for yourself¡± Everly said and he jumped out of his chair so quickly it was like a sh moving about.


    ¡°Or if you don¡¯t like the idea you can order something in or make your way to a breakfast spot instead¡± she added with a sweet smile on her face.


    ¡°What?¡± Ethan stammered. He had been so used to her making and serving him breakfast every morning that he wondered what hade over her.


    ¡°What is wrong with you?¡± he asked walking to her.


    ¡°Nothing, I just wanted to have something different today¡±


    ¡°Then make something different¡±


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t feel like cooking,¡± Everly said and watched his face. She could see the swarm of emotions on his face and did not know how to decipher any of them.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, Ara,¡± Everly said pulling the girl¡¯s hand and walking to the door. She did not turn back to look at them but instead continued walking till she was safely outside.


    ¡°Can you drive instead?¡± Everly asked as soon as they were outside. She shuffled through her bag for the key and pressed it so she could know the car they were taking along.


    ¡°Of course¡± Arabe replied. She did not like the tension in the house and was d she was out of it.


    They walked to the car and made their way out of the house. ¡°I cannot believe I was so bold to say no to him, it feels like a rollercoaster ride to me. My heart is beating so fast I am afraid it might jump out of my chest¡± Everly rambled as soon as they hit the road.


    ¡°I am sorry if I caused any tension,¡± Arabe apologized. She knew that Everly would have made breakfast if she had not suggested breakfast out of the house.


    ¡°I think I needed this, I have been so used to allowing them to use me and I guess this was a good idea. Thank you, Arabe¡±The way she said her name made her feel so cosy and warm.


    ¡°So where are we going?¡±

 XLVII

    ¡°I found this cute ce in town where they serve various varieties of breakfast,¡± Everly said with excitement.


    ¡°Oh really have you been there before?¡± Arabe asked. She was careful and so she did not like trying new things.


    ¡°No, but it would be a fun thing to do, don¡¯t you think so?¡± Everly asked.


    ¡°I guess¡± Everly could hear the doubt in the voice of Arabe.


    ¡°You don¡¯t like trying new things do you?¡± Everly asked turning to her.


    ¡°Is it obvious?¡± Arabe said with a nervous chuckle.


    ¡°Your eyes dted, your hands shook on the wheel and I could see your body tense up,¡± Everly said. Arabe turned to her with widened eyes shocked she was able to get all that information in such a short time.


    ¡°I am a mom, we know these things,¡± she said when she saw her stare. ¡°You might be afraid to try new things but I want you to try this ce and see for yourself¡±


    Arabe nodded. What else did she have to be afraid of? She had moved away from her family which was her biggest fear at that time and she had gone out on a date with a guy even though she would usually not agree to do so. She had done so many things in the past few months that eating out in a foreign ce should not worry her.


    ¡°Of course, I should try it. Who knows what I could miss out on just because I don¡¯t want to eat there?¡± Arabe murmured.


    ¡°That¡¯s the spirit,¡± Everly said with augh. She was d she was able to convince the girl or she would have had no choice but to go back home and prepare a meal for her.


    ¡°My phone is ringing¡± Arabe said when she heard it vibrate in her bag.


    ¡°Oh, it is?¡± Everly replied trying to help her get out her phone from the bag. ¡°It¡¯s Kieran¡± she said scrunching up her nose in confusion.


    ¡°Hello¡±


    ¡°Where the hell are you?¡±


    ¡°Why are you shouting over the phone?¡± Everly asked as she turned to look at Arabe who was carefully driving.


    ¡°Arabe? Who is this? This is not Arabe. Mom?¡± Kieran stuttered.


    ¡°Yes it¡¯s a mom but mom would like to know why you are screaming over the phone¡±


    ¡°I thought it was Arabe¡± he replied sheepishly.


    ¡°So if it was Arabe that would be a good enough reason to shout?¡± Everly asked her face turning into a smile.


    Why did it seem like he was so on edge when it came to her? Why did he think it was okay to be screaming at her?


    ¡°No, but I wanted to know what she had done this time around, Dad told me you did not agree to make breakfast for him¡± Kieran said and Everly made an affirmative sound.


    ¡°Yes, I am going out for breakfast, you both should order something as well¡±


    ¡°But Dad has only had your breakfast every day for years now¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true he has hotels breakfast sometimes too¡± Everly responded.


    She understood what her son was trying to say but she was not in the mood to agree with them today.


    ¡°But Mom, he is sulking here in the living room,¡± Kieran said. He was concerned for his father.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°Oh he would be fine,¡± Everly said like it was not a big deal and it was not supposed to be a big deal. It was just breakfast after all.


    ¡°Order something for him or I can bring something home for him from the restaurant on my way back¡± She added.


    Kieran did not know what to say about the situation. He had always thought that his Father was being extra about meals.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry I will get him something to eat. Enjoy your meal¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Wait,¡± Everly said before he could cut off the line.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Why did you call then?¡± She wondered what made him call and even started screaming.


    ¡°I wanted to speak with Arabe because I believed it was her doing¡±


    ¡°What was she doing?¡±


    ¡°That you left home without making breakfast¡± Kieran put it simply. He was not ready to waste his time beating around the bush .


    ¡°Kieran¡± Everly shrieked out in annoyance.¡± I did not train you to be such a narcissist. You would apologize to her right away¡± Everly said yanking the phone from her ears and then putting it on speaker. ¡°Go on,¡± she said.


    She was not interested in hearing whatever defence he might have. All she wanted to hear was him apologizing for what he had said. Arabe was taken aback by her shriek. She did not even hear what he had said she was not offended in the slightest bit.


    ¡°How can I apologize to her when I have not offended her?¡± Kieran grumbled.


    ¡°You should apologize for what you said. Arabe is the only one who cares a bit about me. She suggested we go out for breakfast because she was worried I would be too tired from making meals all day but all you and your dad care about is me making those meals for you¡± Everly ranted.


    ¡°Since you have decided to be stubborn and act out even when I went out of my way to ensure that you turn into a gentleman I have also decided that I would not cook a single meal again in that house until you turn back into a gentleman,¡± Everly said before cutting off the line.


    ¡°Those men¡± she said loudly mming her hands on the dashboard. ¡°How dare you try to belittle you?¡±


    ¡°Everly please calm down¡± Arabe said wondering what was making her so angry. From what she had heard she knew that Kieran had probably made a harshment.


    Just like the one he made the day she hurt her foot. She was unable to figure him out. It seemed like he cared but his words never matched his actions.


    ¡°Calm down Everly, I am sure he did not mean it that way,¡± Arabe said trying to calm her down before she did something that might hurt her just like she had foolishly done.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe him. These are the reasons they say we should have daughters they are more useful than sons¡±

 XLVIII

    Arabe had a good time at the restaurant and she was d she overlooked her fear and ate there. As she drove in the music-filled car with the asional lip sync from Everly from time to time she thought of how she needed to do something about Kieran¡¯s sudden outburst.


    If her presence was somehow disturbing them she needed to do something to stop it, but she needed to talk to him as soon as she got home. She did not want him to think that she was after his kind of life.


    She sent a text to him telling him to meet her in the garden outside so she could trash out whatever it was that she needed to before she went inside. He had seen and read the text but he did not respond.


    ¡°Home sweet home¡± Everly eximed as she drove into the driveway.


    ¡°Thank you so much for today,¡± Arabe said as she parked the car and took off her seat belt.


    ¡°I should be the one to thank you¡± Everly cut in before she could let out another word. ¡°I would have been stuck inside the house all day without seeing the beautiful outdoors¡±


    ¡°The pleasure is mine and I would be willing to do this again anytime. Just let me know and I will be there¡± Arabe said. She had a fun time with her so it was not a bad idea to want to do it again.


    ¡°Even if you have a date with your boyfriend?¡± Everly teased.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a boyfriend¡± Arabe denied immediately.


    ¡°I heard that strong denial was approval¡± Everly said in a teasing voice as she opened the door and stepped out. ¡°Aren¡¯t youing in?¡± she asked when she saw that she made no move to leave the car.


    Arabe stepped out of the car and stood beside it closing the door and locking it with the key in her hand. ¡°I am going to stay in the garden for a little while and then make my way inside¡± Arabe exined as she handed the key to her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t stay out too long or else you would catch a cold. And I know you might say it¡¯s not cold or chilly but it¡¯s windy and the colds gotten from such windy days are the worst¡± Everly said as she walked away.


    ¡°I will be in soon¡± Arabe called after the retreating figure of the woman. She was not going to stay long as she was going to tell Kieran her mind and then be out of there.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She walked to the garden and picked a chair that she knew would be out of the line of sight of anyone in the house. She sat down and sent him a message. She wanted to do this like a civilized person but if he did note out she was going to march up to his room and demand to see him.


    ¡°A few minutes¡± she murmured as she closed her eyes feeling the wind blow all over her face and body.


    ¡°Why did you call me out here?¡±


    ¡°Yes I did,¡± Arabe said trying her best to show that he startled her. She sat still and gestured for him to sit beside her.


    ¡°Make it fast or else I might be tempted to walk out¡± Kieran said as she rounded the chair and sat on it keeping a safe distance between them.


    ¡°I keep getting a feeling that you don¡¯t like me but I don¡¯t recall doing anything to you¡± Arabe started. She nced at him and the state of his face was as if he was going for the championship of the frowning association.


    ¡°And the way you talk to me, I did not hear what you told Everly the other time but I am guessing that it is not something nice¡± she continued.


    He sat beside her like a statue and did not move. She would have been fooled if she did not hear his silent breathing.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to ask what I did because you would only evade the question and tell me I did nothing when it is obvious that there is something about me that is bugging you¡±


    ¡°All I want to say is that it seems I would be in your life a lot, talk about cruel fate on my side. I have no intention of trying to piss you off but if I do then you should tell me and notsh out on me. I am not a child¡± Thest part of her words carried so much power he almost shuddered.


    ¡°Also, since we are not friends simple hello from time to time would do, I would go to work on my own from now on. Since I would not be in your business you should also not be in mine¡± she said and went silent.


    ¡°Are you done?¡± he asked and she saw fire. She had said her bit and all he had to say was are you done?


    ¡°It¡¯s because of things like this that people don¡¯t like you¡± The words flew out of her mouth before her brain could interpret the meaning to her mind.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I am sorry, I did not mean that¡± she jumped to say as she stood up and waved her hands in the air. ¡°I do not know why I said that¡± she continued in a panic.


    She was trying to make peace so why would she be the one to re up? She looked at his face and saw how calm he was. She knew people who did not show their emotions were the most dangerous set of people.


    They could be so quiet while trying to plot your death so she felt her heart drop to her feet. At least the books and movies she read and watched taught her to be wary of those kinds of people.


    Kieran pped his thigh and stood to his feet with a smile across his face. She shuddered as she opened her mouth to apologize but he stopped her with a wave of his hand at her face.


    ¡°I am quite aware that people don¡¯t like me as I know the reason as well I don¡¯t need you to tell me. I am sorry for the outburst in the morning, it was sudden and I don¡¯t understand it¡± he said before he walked away.


    ¡°Also,¡± he said suddenly standing feet away from her and turning to face her.


    ¡°I am quite interested in you so I don¡¯t think I can stay out of your business¡±

 XLIX

    Arabe rolled in bed as she could not take her mind off what Kieran had said. She could hear it so clearly that it was like her mind was reying the scene over and over again.


    ¡®I am quite interested in you so I don¡¯t think I can stay out of your business¡¯


    ¡°Interested in me? What does that mean?¡± she muttered to herself as she sat up straight in bed. Maybe her mind was not working because she was lying down.


    ¡°Maybe I should have asked him what he meant and not allowed him to walk away like he had not just dropped a bomb on me¡±


    ¡°What did he mean?¡± she mumbled to herself again.


    Her eyes darted to the rm clock by her bedside. She had only four more hours before she had to be up and out so she could go to work.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    She wondered why her mind did not y this truck on her while it was day. It has to wait till night and then keep her awake all night.


    She knew that she would be so exhausted at work and she would probably make a bad impression in the face of Aurora again. She sighed as she fell back into bed and pulled the covers over her eyes.


    She shut her eyes and waited for sleep to overwhelm her. She needed at least two hours of sleep to at least be a little productive in the morning. By the time her eyes flew open, she had only thirty minutes to make it to work.


    ¡°Shit¡± she screamed as she flew out of bed and sped her hand across her mouth in embarrassment. She was the only one in the room so she did not know why she was feeling so embarrassed.


    ¡°How did this happen?¡± she cried out as she tried to do more than one thing at the same time. ¡°What a way to start the week¡± she continued in a groan.


    She heard a knock on her door as she was sipping up her dress.


    ¡°Who is it? ¡± she called jumping up and down so the zipper just works.


    ¡°It¡¯s Everly¡±


    ¡°Oh thank goodness¡± Arabe said walking to the door. She puked the door open and turned to her. ¡°Please help me with my zipper,¡± she said.


    Everly helped her and she turned to face her. ¡°Thank you¡± she murmured and rushed back to pack up her stuff into her purse.


    She had sessfully had a quick shower and gotten dressed within ten minutes she had twenty minutes to magically appear at the office so she did not gette.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Everly asked helping her pick things and throw them into her bag.


    ¡°I woke upte because I could not sleep early enough and I am stressed out as it is, I did not know that the time has gone so much¡± she said all in a breath and then took a deep breath.


    ¡°I had a rough morning or else I would have noticed you hadn¡¯t gotten out of bed yet¡± Everly said.


    ¡°It¡¯s all right,¡± Arabe said running out the door.


    ¡°Be careful¡± she screamed after the girl.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe that guy, it¡¯s his fault that I am going sote to work and yet he could not even check on me¡± she murmured as she climbed down the stairs.


    She was out of the house with the speed of light and she saw Kieran standing there with his hands up as he frowned at his watch. He leaned on his car and looked up and their eyes locked.


    ¡°I thought you were not going to make it to work today¡± he said opening his door and entering inside.


    She stood there wondering what he was doing there. He always left the house earlier so why was he still around at this time? Was he waiting for her?


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to work?¡± he asked rolling down his window.


    She caught herself from staring and gaping at him and ran down the final stairs to ovee. She ran and sat in the front passenger seat of the car.


    ¡°I thought you had left already,¡± she said as she struggled to put on her seatbelt.


    ¡°I was waiting for you,¡± he said silently.


    ¡®He was waiting for me?¡¯ she asked herself and then turned to him. ¡°Why?¡± she asked him as she was able to finally put in the belt.


    ¡°I usually drive you to work,¡± he said as he drove out of thepound to the street. He seemed so chill it was kind of scary.


    ¡°I told you yesterday that I would go on my own from today¡± she murmured.


    ¡°Do you want to get down?¡± he murmured silently as he slowed down.


    ¡°No please keep driving, thank you so much,¡± she said gesturing for him to continue. He increased his speed and drove onto the express.


    ¡°Why are you sote?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Can we not talk about that?¡± she asked hoping that they don¡¯t talk about anything at all.


    ¡°Okay¡± he said facing the road with a smirk.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to bete too?¡±


    ¡°I am the boss¡± he said and she nodded.


    ¡°I am not the boss and I think I might get a sry cut this month,¡± she said with a whimper. She bowed her head and hit herself gently in the head with annoyance.


    ¡°Get a grip on yourself¡± she murmured. She looked up and hoped for something to magically happen so they could get to their destination before it was toote.


    By the time Kieran was driving into the underground parking lot of the office she was already fifteen minuteste. How could she let this happen to her? Why did she spend all night worrying about some words from him?


    She was going to confront him about it tonight before she went to bed so she wouldn¡¯t end up repeating the same thing again.


    ¡°Thank you¡± she screamed as the car parked and she flew out of the car and ran up to the elevator. She prayed for the elevator toe quicker than it would.


    ¡°Hold the door¡± Kieran shouted to her as he approached the door.


    ¡°Sorry¡± she screamed at him as the door closed.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her?¡±

 L

    ¡°You arete¡± Aurora said as soon as she came into the office.


    ¡°I have no excuse,¡± Arabe said immediately. There was no need for her to begin to beg for forgiveness and understanding, all she needed to do was ept her fault so that Aurora could get off her back.


    Aurora was thrown off for a second because she had expected her to make excuses. ¡°Don¡¯t bete next time¡± she said before walking away as quickly as she could.


    Chole waved over to her and Arabe skipped to her. ¡°You are usually early? What happened today?¡± Chole asked as she sat in her seat.


    ¡°The weirdest thing happened to me, I overslept even past my rm,¡± she said and Chole gasped.


    Arabe had never been one who found it difficult to wake up in the morning except she had had a hard time going down to bed.


    ¡°I am shocked you were able to tame her, She had been waiting for you all morning just to give you an earful. I wonder what generation she thinks we are. how can one still be so hung up on bullying the juniors¡± Chole tsked and then looked up.


    ¡°Kieran is just getting to work¡±


    Arabe looked up and then diverted her eyes when they made eye contact. They would have gotten in the same time but she had closed the elevator door without waiting for him so he had to wait for the next one.


    Kieran walked toward the table and stopped putting his bag on the table and pping his hands in the air loudly. She gulped as she slowly looked up at him.


    ¡°Shall we talk?¡± Kieran asked and Arabe shook her head.


    ¡°If it¡¯s not urgent then can we have it over lunch break?¡± she asked trying to avoid him. ¡°The thing is that I came into work prettyte today so I want to catch up on my work¡± she said with pleading eyes.


    She did not want to stand up and go with him to discuss anything. She wanted to be left alone so she could catch her breath and begin her work for the week.


    ¡°Should we talk here then?¡± he asked.


    Everyone¡¯s eyes in the office fell on them. Arabe cleared her throat and stood to her feet. ¡°Let¡¯s talk there then,¡± she said walking to the meeting room.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you want to talk about but you should make it quick¡± she said as he entered and closed the door behind him.


    ¡°I just randomly remembered but are you seeing that guy from that night again?¡±


    ¡°Who? Mark?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°Yeah, him¡± Kieran replied.


    Arabe took a step back to look him in the face. ¡°Did you just call me away from work to ask about Mark?¡± she asked crossing her hand.


    ¡°Yeah¡±N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°What¡¯s your deal with him anyway?¡± She asked wondering why he was so invested in what concerned him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a deal with him¡± he replied with pursed lips.


    ¡°Then I guess it should not be your business¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like him¡± he said stopping her from leaving the room.


    ¡°That has nothing to do with me,¡± she said walking out.


    ¡°I have a bad feeling about him¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going for lunch?¡± Chole asked standing up and stretching so loudly.


    ¡°I wish I could but I have a lot to catch up on with work¡± Arabe said looking up from the papers in her hand.


    ¡°I think she is just giving you extra work on purpose¡± Chole whispered bending to her level.


    ¡°It¡¯s obvious isn¡¯t it?¡± Arabe sighed as she clicked her pen multiple times.


    ¡°Stay safe with the papers, I will bring you back a sandwich or something,¡± Chole said taking her jacket off her chair and walking to the entrance where the rest of the team was waiting for her.


    Arabe sighed as she turned in her chair. She could at least get a cup of coffee to keep her awake since she was the only one left in the office.


    She stood by the counter waiting for the water to boil. She tried to stretch herself as she was there.


    ¡°It¡¯s lunchtime what are you doing here?¡± Kieran asked as he pushed the door to the kitchen open.


    ¡°Oh my god¡± Arabe eximed as she turned to see him standing there. ¡°You need to know that it¡¯s wrong to sneak up on people like that, make some noise when you walk¡± She held her hands to her chest as her eyes widened.


    ¡°Why are you so startled?¡± he asked going to the water dispenser to take a cup of water.


    ¡°I thought I was left alone at the office since it was lunchtime and everyone had gone for lunch¡± she exined and he shook his head leaning against the wall.


    ¡°If everyone went for lunch why are you here?¡± he asked sipping his water like it was some kind of fancy tea.


    ¡°I have some work to do, I am being punished foring to workte¡± she said turning to pour the boiled water into her cup.


    ¡°So you aren¡¯t going to have lunch?¡±


    ¡°What about you?¡± she asked. He was not having lunch either seeing that he was still at the office.


    ¡°I nned on having ate lunch because I have a meeting with the investors¡± he exined and she nodded before shrugging.


    ¡°It¡¯s no big, Chole would bring back a sandwich for me,¡± she told him.


    ¡°But you did not have breakfast,¡± he said in a concerning voice.


    ¡°I know right¡± she said taking up the cup to her nose so the scent filled her nose.


    ¡°I will buy you lunch¡± he said and her eyes that had fallen shut when she was inhaling the coffee shot open immediately.


    ¡°There is no need for that, I would be fine after having the sandwiches,¡± she said walking toward the door. ¡°And I can¡¯t leave my work unattended, I am supposed to submit it immediately after the lunch break,¡± she said before pushing the door open and walking out.


    Kieran dropped his cup to the table and walked out of the room to catch up with her. He held her hands and spun her to himself so she was almost touching his chest.


    ¡°I insist on buying lunch¡± he whispered his hand firmly gripping hers. She gulped as her nose caught his scent. ¡°Let¡¯s go¡±

 LI

    ¡°You really don¡¯t need to buy me lunch, I am having sandwiches after now,¡± Arabe said as Kieran pulled her along.


    ¡°Get in¡± he said opening the door to his car and nudging her in.


    She turned to catch his face and pursed her lips to a line before getting into the car. Kieran closed the door and jogged over to the other side of the car.


    He silently drove a few metres, he was d that he overheard them speak about the restaurant they were visiting so he could sessfully avoid them.


    They got into the restaurant and the waiter came to them. to get their orders. Arabe ordered and then the waiter turned to Kieran to get his order.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to order anything?¡± Arabe asked handing the waiter the menu in her hand.


    ¡°I am having ate lunch, I think I told you that already,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Are you going to sit there and watch me eat?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°Yes,¡± he said with a nod.


    ¡°Is that kind of a fetish?¡±


    ¡°A fetish?¡± Kieran was not sure he understood what she was saying.


    ¡°Yeah like a fetish to watch others while eating?¡± Arabe said taking a sip from her cup.


    The waiter bowed and left since it was obvious that they were not ordering anything again but kept him standing there for long.


    ¡°Since this is the first of its kind can you call it a fetish¡±


    ¡°Well forck of better words, I think this is the best word to describe it since it seems weird and creepy¡± Arabe said with a shiver.


    ¡°There is nothing like that¡± Kieran said in a dismissing tone.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know it would be quite awkward for you to sit there and watch me eat?¡± she asked and he shook his head.


    ¡°If it bothers you that much then I can go way in the car while you eat¡± Kieran said.


    Arabe knew it would be awkward to have him sit there but it would be mean to send him out when he had looked out for her so much.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother¡± she said stopping him before he could leave. ¡°I don¡¯t feel bothered one bit¡± she lied.


    She was unsure if she would be able to eat well with his long stare at her. He had such a kind of stare that made her ufortable most time.


    ¡°What are you doing for dinner?¡±


    ¡°Nothing yet¡± Arabe responded looking up. She hoped he was fine because he was acting so different from what she knew him to be.


    ¡°Do you want to have dinner together?¡±


    ¡°Together?¡± Arabe responded in a chock. ¡°Why?¡± she did not understand him.


    ¡°Yeah, I have a couple of errands to run after my meeting and then I will be back to the office to pick up for dinner¡±


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Arabe knew that her question was not the answer to his invitation but she could not help herself on bit. She needed to make sure he was fine.


    ¡°Of course I am, why would you ask that?¡±N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Because you are acting so strange¡±


    ¡°I am only asking for dinner with you, why do you have to make it sound like I have some mental issues going on¡±


    Arabe was taken aback by his statement. She was only worried about him and did not mean to imply what he was saying.


    ¡°I did not mean it that way I was only worried that maybe something happened or maybe you want to tell me something because this is not the way you usually act¡± Arabe exined.


    ¡°It¡¯s just dinner, if you don¡¯t want to have one then you could just say no,¡± Kieran said.


    From his facial lines, it was obvious that he was not happy about the situation one bit.


    ¡°I am sorry and I would love very much to have dinner with you,¡± Arabe said. Since she had hurt his feelings the best she could do was just have the dinner he was asking for.


    ¡°I will pick you up then¡± It seemed like he had forgotten his fridge all of a sudden and was now fine with the decision she made.


    ¡°That¡¯s good,¡± Arabe said as the food was brought to her table.


    ¡°Oh this smells so good, are you sure you don¡¯t want to have some?¡± she asked taking up her spoon and scooping a portion of the one-pot rice.


    The restaurant specialized in such meals and she was eager to try something new. Even though she was not quitefortable with eating out, she still felt better since a familiar face was sitting in front of her.


    The meal she had with Everly somehow helped her to get over her fear a bit. ¡°This tastes so good,¡± she said with a giggle as she took another spoonful.


    ¡°You should really try this¡± she said stretching her spoon to his face as if she was trying to persuade him to try it.


    ¡°I will pass¡± he said bending to tap on his phone. From the expressions on his face and the way his hands moved quickly, she could tell he was in a heated discussion. She wondered who it was. As much as she wanted to know she knew not to dare to ask him that.


    ¡°Thank you so much for the meal,¡± Arabe said as they walked out of the restaurant to the parking lot.


    ¡°Would you like to have coffee as well?¡± Kieran asked.


    ¡°I am so stuffed, I think having a little of that might help with digestion¡± Arabe replied and Kieran nodded.


    ¡°I will get you a cup real quick, there is a cafe next door¡±


    ¡°I wille with you¡± Arabe volunteered.


    ¡°There is no need for that, just stay in the car¡± he said and then jogged away.


    Arabe sat in the car and tried to piece his actions into a big one but it was all impossible because she could not see what was making him act so cordial with her.


    She arched him jog back to her with a to-go cup in hand. he gave her the cup as he entered the car. She did not want to ask him what kind of coffee it was. She was curious about what he thought her taste was.


    ¡°Hmm, my favourite¡± she said and saw a small smile quickly appear and disappear from his face.

 LII

    ¡°How did you know the coffee I like?¡± Arabe asked as they drove back to the office.


    ¡°I just guessed,¡± Kieran said with a shrug. ¡°I will drop you off upfront because I have to get to my meeting¡± he added.


    ¡°I told you that I can go back myself,¡± Arabe said in a protest. ¡°You drop me off here¡± she said pointing to the corner of the road.


    ¡°And risk looking like a bad person?¡± Kieranmented.


    Arabe felt her phone vibrate in herp. She took it up and discovered it was a call from Mark. A smile crossed her face. Since their date on Saturday, they have beenmunicating like close friends. Each time she felt like he was about to ask her out she discovered he just did not do it.


    ¡°Hello,¡± Mark¡¯s voice came through the line.


    ¡± I thought not to call you because you might be at work,¡± Arabe said in response.


    ¡°I just saw my outpatients and I have a little more time before I go in for surgery and I wanted to hear from you¡±


    ¡°Oh, I feel honoured¡± She had somehow begun to feelfortable with him and she did not know why.


    ¡°So what are you doing this weekend?¡±


    ¡°Today is Monday, I don¡¯t have any ns for the weekend¡± Arabe responded.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have any ns yet¡± Mark corrected.


    ¡°Are you going to make ns on my behalf?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°I was going to ask if you had any idea what we could do together¡±


    ¡°Are you trying to ask me out on a date right now¡±


    ¡°If you want to call it that¡±


    Arabe felt her cheeks get hot and red. He was asking her out on a date and not because it was a date but because he wanted to.


    ¡°So what do you want to do?¡± he asked when she stayed silent for a while.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the amusement park, I have always wanted to go there¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°You have never visited the amusement park?¡±


    Ever since she came back to Crescent Bay she had always wanted to visit the amusement park. The entertainment news has called the ce the amusement park the home of all other amusement parks.


    ¡°I have visited several other parks but not the one in Crescent Bay¡± Arabe responded.


    ¡°It¡¯s a date then,¡± Mark said.


    ¡°I should mark that down in my calendar¡± Arabe replied in a sarcastic voice.


    ¡°See you then, I gotta run now,¡± he said and the line fell dead before she could say anything.


    The ride was silent as it seemed like Kieran began to suddenly drive faster than normal. ¡°Be careful¡± Arabe let out when he somehow almost brushed the car beside them.


    ¡°I amte¡± Kieran said with gritted teeth.


    She felt the aura around him change. It was obvious that he was not the same man who had taken her out of lunch and was bringing her back. His earlier rxed face was all tensed now it was impossible to miss that something or someone had mysteriously changed his mood all of a sudden.


    She wondered how his mood changed within minutes, they had even been talking until she got the call. What was wrong with him?


    Kieran dropped her off at the office and zoomed off before she could say anything. She watched his car disappear out of sight.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Arabe turned around to see Chloe standing there with the entire staff.


    ¡°I went out for lunch¡± Arabe replied holding onto Chloe¡¯s hand that had somehow found its way into hers.


    ¡°But you said you weren¡¯t going for lunch¡± Chloe asked and the entire crew walked into the building. Arabe and Chloe followed behind them and she knew that she could not mention that it had been Kieran who asked her toe out for lunch.


    ¡°I had to see a friend urgently,¡± she lied.


    ¡°You have friends in the city?¡± Aaron asked without turning back to her so she could not tell the emotions behind his statement.


    ¡°I met one online and we had only been taking online, he was around the area so I decided to have lunch with him¡± Arabe lied.


    She hated herself at that moment, she had not been a big fan of lies but here she was freely lying through her teeth and feelingfortable about it.


    ¡°Oh, I still brought you back that sandwich,¡± Chloe said extending the stic bag to her.


    ¡°Thanks¡± Arabe said taking the bag from her and hanging it on hers.


    Arabe did not see Kieran for the rest of the day. Since they had decided to have dinner together She decided to hide under the guise of working overtime to wait for him. She was left all alone in the office because everyone had gotten off work.


    After she had waited for an hour and a half and she did not see any trace of Kieran she decided to give him a call to see if there was something holding him up.


    ¡°Hello¡± his voice was strained and filled with a hint of sadness.


    ¡°Are you still in the meeting?¡± she asked in a low voice in case she had been a disturbance to his meeting.


    ¡°No,¡± he said.


    ¡°Oh okay¡± she wondered if she should be direct and ask him or if she should drop hints and let him figure it out himself.


    ¡°Did you have a reason to call?¡± he asked in a pissed voice.


    ¡°You told me to wait that you would be picking me up for dinner but I have waited for a while now, I wanted to know if we were still having dinner together?¡± she asked deciding againstplicating things with him.


    ¡°We can¡¯t have the dinner tonight,¡± he said.


    ¡°Are you going to apologize or give reasons for that?¡± she asked.


    He was the one to suggest the dinner and he did not bother to call her to let her know that the dinner was cancelled or even apologize for any of it.


    ¡°Why should I?¡± he asked.


    Arabe took a deep breath and breathed out an okay to him. She cut off the call as soon as she could and took a cab home.


    Why did she think he was getting better as a human? He was just as prickly as she had always been.


    ¡°My luck¡±

 LIII

    Kieran sat in the bar looking down at his phone. He had just spoken with Arabe and he had no tangible reason for bailing on her without telling her and then refusing to apologize aside from the clenching feeling he felt after he heard her joyfully announce her date with him.


    ¡°What does she see in him?¡± he murmured as he downed the remnant of the mocktail in his cup. He did not want to drink alcohol because he had to drive himself back home.


    He did not know why he was bothered that she was having a date. He did not like her so why did it disturb him so much that he did not want to set his eyes on her?


    He stood up abruptly startling the people sitting by his side. He slid a tio for the waiter and hurried out. He had to try and make it back to his office building so he could take her home before she could leave by herself.


    ¡°He raced as fast as the speed limit could take him. By the time he arrived at the building, the lights were gone and the door was sealed shut.


    ¡°What have I done?¡± he murmured to himself as he tapped on the door. He turned around and entered his car, he would drive slowly along the path home in case she was still trekking and had not yet taken a cab or the bus.


    The driver finallynded him at home where he saw Arabe sitting on the bench outside. He sighed in relief, he was worried about her but he did not know why. She was a grown adult and could definitely make it back home all by herself. Why did he worry?


    She saw his car and fixed her eyes on him. She watched him park the car and stay in it for a few minutes. She waited outside to confront him. Why was he acting strangely to her? She would be fine if he avoided her but why was he busy teasing her?


    She went up to the car and knocked on the window. Kieran lifted his head from the steering wheel and turned to her. She gestured to the door lock and he understood what she was trying to say because he unlocked the door immediately.


    ¡°Good evening¡± she said sliding into the car and closing the door behind her.


    ¡°Good evening¡± he murmured back.


    ¡°Did I do something wrong?¡± she asked. Before she went all hard on him she needed to know I¡¯d she was in the clear so that she could free herself.


    ¡°You did not,¡± Kieran said. She nodded and made a sound from the back of her throat. She was innocent and yet he had to treat her that way?


    She was hell-bent on finding out why he treated her like that and the very reason he said those words that day.


    ¡°So is this like a fun game for you?¡± she asked. She a trying her best to suppress the tearsing up her throat.


    ¡°Is it?¡±


    ¡°What game?¡±


    ¡°You know, toying with me?¡± she says expecting answers. She was not going to allow him to slip through any of it until she had answers today.


    ¡°I have never yed any game¡± he said pressing his fingers together.


    ¡°I could understand if you do not want us to be friends¡± She started feeling her voice hitch in her throat. ¡°But why did you y me like that, you were the one who suggested dinner and I even tried to decline but you insisted and then you had me wait for you for an hour and a half and when I called to ask what was holding you up you spoke so rudely¡± she ranted and stopped for a minute to take a deep breath.


    He was about to speak but she held her hand in the air. She had to say it all to get it off her chest or else she might have a rough day the next day.


    ¡°And then you should have apologized for nning and then bailing out but instead youshed out at me, I was even worried that something urgent hade up with it but seeing here¡± she turned him stretching her hands to him as if to gesture he was sitting there.


    ¡°You are fine and good, I don¡¯t mind just being hello buddies with you, I don¡¯t mind if you ignore me all day but it hurts if you build my expectations and then crush it all by yourself¡± she said and. took a deep breath to calm herself.


    ¡°And what the hell did you mean when you said that you would keep getting involved in my life?¡± she let out.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°I have never seen a grown-ass man as you act like a teenage girl undergoing puberty¡±


    ¡°I am sorry¡± he let out. If he wanted to bepletely honest with himself he knew that he was in the wrong and everything she had said was right but he could not help himself.


    ¡°That¡¯s all? You are not even going to try to exin what happened tonight?¡± He shook his head and she sighed. ¡°Why don¡¯t you exin what you meant yesterday afternoon then?¡± she asked and he shook his head again.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what is wrong with me this day¡± he said.


    ¡°What does that have to do with me?¡± she cried.


    Maybe he was going through some kind of male menopause but she wondered why he had to drag her through his mess. If he was going through anything he should either talk about it or keep others out of it.


    ¡°It has everything to do with you because I began to experience this emotion when you first showed up here¡± he said and she shook her head in shock.


    ¡°What do you mean? I have not even done anything to be used¡±


    ¡°I keep worrying about you and I keep wanting to see you and then it pains me when I see you get sofortable with other men¡±


    ¡°What does that mean?¡±


    ¡°I suddenly developed some kind of feelings for you¡±


    ¡°What?¡± she gasped.

 LIIV

    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, at first I thought my mind was ying some kind of cruel trick on me but it turns out I was wrong and it keeps showing up and when it shows up I am not sure how to act and that¡¯s the reason I end up being rude to you¡± he exined.


    She had ranted and it was his turn to talk for long while he listened. ¡°So Seraphina was right?¡± she murmured to herself.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Nothing,¡± she said startled. She had demanded a. exnation but, not this kind. She did not know what she wanted but she was sure it was none of what she had heard.


    ¡°I better get inside¡± she said struggling with the handle of the door.


    Kieran got closer as he wanted to try to help her get the door. ¡°What are you doing?¡± she screamed when she felt him so close to her.


    ¡°Helping you,¡± he said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother?¡± she said in a nervousugh.


    ¡°I did not want to tell you because I did not want you to feel ufortable¡± Kieran said resting back in his own seat.


    ¡°I am not ufortable,¡± she said in a high-pitched squeaky voice. ¡°I am just shocked and I am unable to hide it¡± she added trying to make her voice sound as normal as possible.


    ¡°Arabe, I am sure what I feel will go away,¡± he said. She did not know if she should stand up and rejoice or if she should feel bad at his statement.


    ¡°How do you know?¡± she asked. She knew that was not the question she should have asked but her curiosity got the best of her. How was he so sure that he would be over her? Was this amon urrence? Had she just felt proud of herself for no reason?


    ¡°I just know, I have not had this kind of feeling before ever since¡­¡± he trailed off.


    Arabe purses her lips together, Everly has exined to her what happened between him and his ex-girlfriend and she understood.


    ¡°I would suggest we stay away from each other so you can get over it quickly,¡± she said.


    His expression suggested to her that he was not in support of her solution to the problem.


    ¡°Out of sight out of mind,¡± she told him. Although it sounded like the best idea he was not sure of it.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I want to do that,¡± he said.


    ¡°You said you would get over it soon and I want to help you spend up the process¡±


    ¡°Does my feelings about you bother you that much?¡± he asked a sad smile on his face.


    She felt moved by his expression but she did not want him to think it was okay at all.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°Yes it does¡± she said inly. ¡°So please let¡¯s avoid each other as much as we can, I can look for another job in the city too,¡± she said.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to go that far,¡± he said in almost a scream.


    ¡°Okay,¡± she said sceptically looking his way.


    ¡°I cannot promise that I will be out of your hair but I will try so you can feelfortable about it¡±


    ¡°Thank you¡± she murmured as she fled the car.


    Kieran watched Arabe walk slowly to the house. He wondered if he was actually drawn to her. She was nothing like Kimberly who he adored with his life.


    Kimberly was a bright perky woman who preferred shoes to books. Arabe on the other had always had her nose buried in books since she was young.


    He wondered if it was true that all men had a type because Kimberly and Arabe were sure not the same type. He felt rejected like he had proposed to her and she had curely turned him down.


    He wanted to chase after her and ask her to reconsider, he did not know what he wanted her to reconsider but that¡¯s how he felt.


    ¡°What do I do?¡± he asked himself angrily as he mmed his fist on the steering wheel. ¡°Would it have been better if I had just kept it to myself?¡±


    The next morning he noticed that she had left the house before he could wake up. The news he gathered from his mom was that she had an important client to attend to and so she could not stay for breakfast.


    Kieran knew that she was only trying her best to avoid him at all costs. He felt bad that she might begin to walk on eggshells around the house. She might even contemte moving out or switching jobs as she had suggested.


    ¡°Kieran honey, can you help me pick up my package today?¡± Everly asked her son.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Kieran asked.


    ¡°You were not listening where you?¡± she asked.


    He was not one to talk a lot at the table but he was always so attentive it was weird. She noticed how spaced out he was at the table that morning and she wondered what was wrong with him.


    ¡°Are you fine?¡± she asked and he nodded.


    ¡°Just a bit tired,¡± he said.


    She wondered if he had a rough day yesterday. ¡°Do you want some blood tonic or something to drink for energy?¡± she asked standing up and walking around the kitchen to try to get something for him.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing serious, I am sure I will regain my energy before the end of the day¡± he replied.


    She stopped in her tracks and stared at his face intently. She hoped he was right because thest time she saw him this haggard he ended ho spending nights at the hospital.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Of course Mom,¡± he said standing up too. ¡°You wanted me to pick something up,¡± he asked and she nodded.


    ¡°I ordered a new air fryer and I did not pick home delivery. can you help me pick up my package on your way back from work?¡±


    ¡°Of course, goodbye,¡± he said as he walked out. Everly followed him out, she had to make sure he was okay.


    ¡°Go back in Mom,¡± he said gesturing to her.


    ¡°Okay,¡± she said waving to him, before turning around and getting into the house.


    ¡°What are you doing standing there? I am ready to have my breakfast now¡±


    ?

 LV

    TRIGGER WARNING,


    THERE MIGHT BE SOME ELEMENT OF DOMESTIC ABUSE IN THIS CHAPTER PLEASE SKIP IT IF YOU CANNOT HANDLE IT.


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Everly asked as she turned to face her husband.


    Since Saturday she had avoided making any meals for him and he had thought she was just temporarily acting up and would be back to her senses soon


    ¡°If you want breakfast so much maybe you should make yourself something to eat¡±


    He had been ordering in since Saturday for all his Ms apart for dinners and he was not going to take it any more.


    ¡°Are you not going to get your husband something to eat?¡± he asked walking slowly towards her.


    ¡°You should get yourself something to eat if you are that hungry,¡± she said.


    He moved closer to her and she moved back until her back touched the wall. She was now pinned to the corner and she did not like the feeling of being trapped at all.


    ¡°You have refused to prepare my meals, what are you doing at home then?¡± he asked.


    She could feel his warm breath on her neck. Sheughed at how this position was supposed to be romantic ording to books and movies but all she felt was difort. She wanted to escape that moment immediately.


    She gulped as she opened her mouth to speak. She was the only one who could save herself. ¡°You stay at home all day too, you can as well prepare a meal for yourself too,¡± she said.


    ¡°What?¡± Ethan shouted at her.


    Everly felt so exposed. It was as if somehow had forcefully taken off all of her clothing. ¡°What?¡± he screamed again.


    ¡°You are scaring me Ethan¡± she said in a fearful voice.


    ¡°What do you mean I am scaring you? All I have ever done in life is to love you but you repay me like this?¡± he screamed again.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°I knew it was a wrong idea to bring that girl into this house, she is the reason everything turned to the way it is,¡± he said backing up from her and pacing the floor.


    ¡°What are you saying? Arabe has nothing to do with this¡± Everly jumped to defend.


    ¡°Why then did your attitude change when she came to love here?¡± he asked walking to her.


    ¡°I have had enough of you treating me like a tool used for a specific purpose, I am not made to make your meals, I am human and I think I should be respected as well¡± she said and gulped.


    They had had arguments in the past, it was not something new but something about the situation made her feel a kind of fear she had never known before.


    ¡°When did I ever treat you like that? The role of the woman is to make the home and nothing more, why are you now trying to distort what it is supposed to be¡± Ethan said. She could see the veins in his neck popping as he screamed at her.


    ¡°It is the role of both of them to make the home¡± Everly responded.


    ¡°What was that?¡±


    ¡°You heard¡­¡± Everly was barely able to finish up her statement when she felt his palm on her cheeks, it hurt.


    He pped her.


    Everly held her cheek as she pushed him out of her way. ¡°Did you just p me?¡± she asked, tears streaming from one of her eyes. She could not believe the situation she was in at that moment.


    The same Ethan who had chased her around for years before he got her to date him and then suddenly made her pregnant and after that married her. It was the same man who had raised his hands and pped her.


    ¡°I am sorry, I did not mean to¡± he stammered as he moved back staggering on his feet. ¡°I don¡¯t know what came over me,¡± he said again as his feet kept going back.


    ¡°I am going to go out now¡± she said rushing out of the house.


    She felt a breeze hit her skin but she did not care all that was on her mind was how to escape that situation she was facing.


    She was not properly dressed to be out in the cold. She could hear her name resound in the distance but she did not think about turning around.


    When she thought of it she had nowhere to go, with every step she took she felt like she was gradually leaving her body and taking up a new body. The feeling was strange, she could not understand it.


    By the time she came to herself, she had walked miles away from the house. She was at least forty minutes away from her house by car. She looked around her, she knew that the only person she could call was her son. She looked on her to try and locate her phone but it was nowhere to be found.


    She looked up and spotted a cafe nearby, maybe they would be able to help her. The chime of the door directed all attention to her. She looked up and down as she walked to the counter.


    ¡°Hello,¡± she said in a shaky voice. Her voice was full of tears but she was trying to stop her eyes from crying.


    ¡°Hello ma¡¯am how can I help you¡± the perky girl at the counter said.


    ¡°I think I am lost¡± Everly croaked out.


    ¡°Oh would you like to use my phone?¡± yeh girl asked and Everly nodded with appreciation in her eyes.


    ¡°Thank you¡± Everly said as she fumbled with the phone in her hand.


    ¡°Do you want me to help you?¡± the girl asked. She could see that this woman was in a position to handle herself. She looked a bit haggard, her hair was all over the ce and she looked like she was cold and hot at the same time.


    ¡°Yes please¡± Everly said thrusting the phone back to her hand. She called out the number, she had her son¡¯s number off the top of her head so it was easy for her.


    ¡°Hello, Kieran¡± Everly let out as the phone connected.


    ¡°Mom?¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Can youe pick me up?¡±


    PS: I felt pretty weird writing this

 LVI

    ¡°Hello Mom¡± Kieran shouted at the dead end of the phone. He yanked the phone from his ears like it was something hot burning him. He tapped on the phone and called the number again.


    ¡°Hello,¡± he heard a quirky voice.


    ¡°Hello, my mom just called me on this line¡± he said internally praying she was still there.


    ¡°Oh yes,¡± thedy said and Kieran sighed in relief.


    ¡°She said toe to pick her but she did not give me an address,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Oh, this is at Salt Avenue, Purple and Cream coffee shop,¡± Thedy said.


    ¡°Is she fine? She did not sound too good over the phone¡± Kieran was concerned. He had never heard his mom sound that way before so he was seriously worried.


    ¡°She does not look too good so if you coulde pick her up as soon as possible that would be the best¡± her quirky and happy voice came through.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry I will keep her here¡± she added.


    ¡°I will be there as fast as I can, please don¡¯t let her out of your sight¡± Kieran said standing to his feet and dragging his coat as he made his way out of the room.


    ¡°Oh My, Kieran I am here to submit this for a review¡± Mia said as she met him at the entrance to his door.


    ¡°I will take a look at that when I return, please keep it on my table¡± Kieran said his voice fading as he took quick steps to the door. He could not tell what exactly his fear was but his gut feelings were all over the ce and he did not like it one bit.


    ¡°But it¡¯s urgent¡± she called to him but it was thin air. ¡°I guess I have to ask Aurora¡± Mia sighed as she walked to her door.


    ¡°Why is he in a hurry?¡± Aaron asked perking the interest of the whole team. Kieran had always been a goody too shoes upholding work ethics. He always does everything by the book so it was weird to them all to see him walk out there when it was not break or closing time.


    Arabe raised her head, she wondered what happened but she did not want to get involved with him again. She has just barely been able to get out of seeing him this morning why did she have to check up on him? She was worried about the way he left the office but she did not want to start what she would be unable to end.


    ¡°Who knows?¡± Chole whispered and then bent back to continue typing on her system.


    ¡°Why is she being so difficult?¡± Mia askeding down to the open space and stamping her feet on the ground loudly.


    ¡°What happened with her?¡± Aaron asked.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°I wish that I could leave this job, it pays a lot so I can¡¯t leave it¡± Mia added in a cry before she dropped to her chair.


    ¡°Just let Ryder review it¡± Chole suggested.


    ¡°I guess that¡¯s the best idea now,¡± Mia said going to his office.


    Kieran raced to the coffee shop. He parked and entered the cafe and walked to the counter. As he approached the counter he saw his mom sitting in one of the chairs. Her head was hung low as she fondled with her finger.


    ¡°Mom,¡± Kieran said with a loud voice as she rushed to her and knelt before her.


    She looked up at him slowly, her face was flushed and her eyes looked a bit dim. She wanted to smile but all he saw was a kind of sadness.


    ¡°Are you her son?¡± Kieran turned to the direction of the voice. It was the same one he heard over the phone.


    ¡°Yes¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Oh, you are very good-looking¡± the girl could not control herself. She could read the room that it was not the time to beplimenting him but she could not control herself. She was sure he could pass off as a celebrity without any issues.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Kieran said. ¡°For watching myom and making sure she is safe¡± he added after a long pause causing the smile and her face to turn to a frown and then back into a smile.


    She had done a good deed by taking care of the olderdy she met. The woman looked like she had passed through something and she was d to have been of help.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±  He turned to her to speak. He tried to make his voice sound as gentle as possible. She always looked startled there was no reason for him topound the issue further.


    ¡°I was taking a walk and then lost my way, and found myself here,¡± Everly said followed by a shallowugh.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get you home¡± Kieran said standing up and stretching her hands to him.


    ¡°Home,¡± she said as if she wanted to spell each word. ¡°Where is that?¡± She asked.


    Kieran wondered if she was ying some kind of trick on him. What did she mean by where is home?


    ¡°Come on¡± he said lifting her by the shoulders.


    ¡°I apparently have no home,¡± she said as tears dropped from her eyes.


    Keiran¡¯s hands fell to his side. Why was she crying and in public at that? He had never seen her this way. She had always been that strong woman every woman wished they were.


    ¡°Mom,¡± he said slowly as he waited for her to stop crying. ¡°Let¡¯s go to my car,¡± he said when she did not stop the tears. His hands went to her shoulders again and he helped her to her feet. He guided her gently outside and then helped her get into the car.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± he asked as she sat down in the car.


    ¡°I was taking a walk,¡± she said again.


    ¡°This far away from home?¡±  Everly did not want to burden her son with all the nonsense so she did not tell him. She did not want him and his father to fight so she let it go.


    ¡°I guess I was just a little carried away,¡± she said.


    ¡°Why did you cry then?¡± Kieran asked as he pursed his lips together.


    ¡°Is it menopause symptoms?¡±

 LVII

    ¡°Mom, why don¡¯t you tell me the truth?¡± Kieran asked as he drove her home.


    She looked better than when he had first seen her. It was as if life had suddenly returned to her. Her face looked brighter and she was getting better, she had calmed down and the tears ceased as well.


    ¡°What truth?¡± she asked looking out the window to avoid any form of eye contact they might have.


    ¡°About what happened¡±


    ¡°Nothing happened,¡± she said trying her best to sound happy as possible. ¡°I had not been exercising for a while now so I decided to just take a little walk around the neighbourhood¡±


    ¡°Nas you found yourself forty minutes away?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡±


    ¡°Forty minutes drive away from the house?¡± he asked again.


    ¡°Yeah¡±


    ¡°If you were taking a walk why did you call me then?¡±


    ¡°Turns out I left my phone at home and could not figure out the way back home¡± She lied.


    Kieran could easily detect that lie, she was always so good with directions and she had been living in the city throughout her adulthood it would not be that hard to locate her house.


    Everly began to regret obeying her impulsive thoughts to call him. Maybe she should have endured it a bit and then found her way home when she felt stable enough. She did not have to trouble her son because of something her husband did.


    ¡°Mom, I will try to understand because this is the first time this is happening but if it is something we need to address immediately please let me know¡± he said and she nodded.


    She felt herself tearing up again and she yawned and let out a loud scream. She nced at the dashboard and noticed it was almost lunchtime.


    ¡°Oh my god, it¡¯s almost lunchtime¡± she eximed.


    ¡°It is¡± Kieran replied his eyes dashing to the dashboard quickly.


    ¡°When you drop me off I will whip something quickly for yourself and Arabe make sure to give it to her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I would be able to wait for that,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Please¡± she let out in a low squeak. She did not want to be left alone in the house with her husband but she did not want him to know anything. It was only the first time and it wouldn¡¯t happen again, she was sure of it. It had to be a mistake.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Kieran said. He did not want to ask any further questions since she didn¡¯t want to tell him anything more. Her please sounded like a cry for help.


    ¡°That¡¯s good¡± she said pping her hands together. ¡°I will make a delicious meal¡± she added with a smile. ¡°I have to make up for taking up your time while you were at work¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem at all, call me anytime,¡± Kieran said.


    Everly always knew her son to be distant and cold but seeing him be this expressive put her in a bit of shock.


    ¡°What do you want to eat? Anything special? I would make them all¡± Everly said.


    ¡°Anything you make is special to me¡±


    ¡°Everly,¡± Ethan said as he saw here down from the car. He did not know the direction to go to search for her so all he did was wait outside in the cold barefooted.


    ¡°Hey honey,¡± she said and he was taken aback. She wanted to run away but she had to pretend in front of her child. He was not even young she wondered why she was doing all this for him.


    ¡°What?¡± he let out in a shriek.


    ¡°You must have been worried¡± she said going to stand before him. ¡°I got lost on my way out for a walk and I asked Kieran toe to get me, I guess I must be getting old seeing that I don¡¯t know how to tell directions again¡± Everly rambled.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Ethan asked with a fearful voice.


    ¡°Do you want Kieran to know what happened? Just y along¡± she said in a hushed whisper.


    ¡°Oh,¡± he said with no voice as he nodded. He knew he was in the wrong but he had to make sure to keep this away from him.


    He wanted to apologize but he didn¡¯t see the right time to do it. The very moment will expose him to his son.


    ¡°I then asked him toe with me home so I could get him a packed lunch as well,¡± Everly said.


    Ethan saw her eyes, he knew she was ufortable and she was telling him that the reason she brought Keiran home was because of the fear for him that gripped her heart.


    ¡°I will assist you in the kitchen,¡± Ethan said.


    ¡°I can manage myself,¡± Everly said with gritted teeth.


    ¡°If you say so¡± Ethan agreed without making a fuss out of the situation.


    Everly walked into the house holding her breath. It had only been a ce of good memories to her but now as she looked inside she could not help but feel like someone or something was about to break her heart into a million billion little pieces.


    ¡°Kieran, why don¡¯t you help me in the kitchen?¡± Everly asked.


    ¡°I will be with you in a minute, I need to ask Dad something¡± Kieran said.


    Everly nodded her head and headed for the kitchen. She knew that by the time Kieran left she would be alone with him in the house. She did not know what to do, should she run away or should she stay with him and talk it out?


    ¡°Dad, what happened?¡± Kieran asked as they entered the study room.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Ethan asked biting the corner of his lips.


    ¡°Why did Mom walk such a distance and why did she look so sad¡±


    ¡°What did she say?¡± Ethan asked. Kieran could see the nervousness in his face and voice. He felt ufortable about the topic. it was as if he wanted to run far away from the scene.


    ¡°She refused to tell me anything¡±


    ¡°Nothing happened,¡± Ethan said dismissively.


    ¡°Dad!¡± Kieran said with a strong voice.


    ¡°We are both fine, trust me on that¡±

 LVIII

    Kieran took the meal his mom made and left the house after ensuring that she was fine. He knew something was wrong but he could not ce his hands on them and since both his parents were hiding the truth from him, there was nothing he could do about it.


    ¡°Mom said I should give this to you¡± Kieran said dropping the bag of food on Arabe¡¯s table.


    Arabe looked up at him. His face was in his usual scowl as if he was just back from fighting a bear.


    ¡°What?¡± she asked. She did not understand what the bag was. They were only a few minutes to lunch break so why was heing into the office with a food bag after storming out earlier?


    ¡°I went home and Mom said I should give this to you¡± Kieran said gesturing to the bag.


    ¡°You went home?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± he said nodding before awkwardly walking away.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Chole asked rolling her chair closer to Arabellea¡¯s table.


    ¡°Kieran¡¯s mom sent me lunch¡± Arabe responded.


    ¡°Why would she do that?¡± Aaron asked.


    ¡°Because they live together?¡± Chole responded in a sarcastic tone.


    ¡°They live together?¡± Aaron was shocked. It was like fresh news to him.


    ¡°Boys,¡± Chole said with a tut. ¡°What¡¯s in there?¡± she followed up and Arabe shook her head.


    ¡°Why am I just knowing this?¡± Aaron followed up. No one in the office was ready to indulge him in the back and forth of the reason he was just learning of the involvement between Arabe and Kieran.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡± Arabe said and Chole nodded with a smile reaching for the bag.


    ¡°Let¡¯s check it,¡± Chloe said as she began to offload the content to check it. ¡°It¡¯s a slice of homemade chicken pot pie, oh you are so lucky, we have to spend our money to get lunch for ourselves but you have such a loving house host¡±


    ¡°I guess¡± Arabe muremued.


    She turned around to see Kieran sitting at his desk. His eyebrows were knitted together as if he was focused on something important. She had tried her best to stay out of his way all day but she had to talk with him.


    The team fell into silence as everyone tried to get their work done right on time. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to have lunch?¡± Ryder asked popping his head from his office.


    ¡°We are¡± they answered as they began to put on their jackets and stretch.


    ¡°Arabe?¡±


    ¡°Oh I have lunch here, I would work a little more before I have it,¡± Arabe said in a dismissing tone. She did not want to have to exin herself but she did not know how to escape questioning.


    ¡°I am buying,¡± Ryder said in a tone that suggested that he was trying to persuade her.


    ¡°I can¡¯t waste this meal¡± Arabe declined.


    ¡°Okay then see you in a bit, by the way, Kieran is not going with us so maybe you two can have lunch together,¡± Ryder said.


    Before Arabe could oppose being left alone at the office she was left all alone with the deafening silence of the office. She wanted to join them because she did not want to be with him.


    Kieran looked up from his desk to see Arabe working so intently on whatever it was that she was doing. He nced at the clock on his desk. It was lunchtime so why was not eating?


    He stood up and took up the lunch box his mom had packed for him. He would heat the meal in the kitchte and also try to invite Arabe to do so.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°If you had the opportunity, you would be a workaholic¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Shit,¡± Arabe said whipping around on her seat to Kieran with a shock on his face, her hand on his chest and her face as if she had just encountered a ghost.


    ¡°What?¡± he asked taking cautious steps down from his office stairs to the main floor.


    ¡°You scared me¡± she responded. She had decided to invest herself into the work that she had forgotten that she was left all alone with him in the office.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to have lunch?¡± he asked and she nodded.


    ¡°You brought lunch from Everly for me, remember?¡±


    ¡°I do remember, I just wanted to know the reason why you are yet to have it¡± he asked and she turned around in her seat to face her desk.


    ¡°I am busy now, I will have it in a minute,¡± she said flipping through a file.


    For some very weird reason, she could feel himing up to her. It was like a strange air wasing up to her. She felt her breath hitch in her throat and her eyes widened. She gulped to push down the saliva that had built up in her throat.


    ¡°Have lunch now¡± he said. His voice was all too close and she knew better than to turn around, he would be standing right behind her.


    ¡°I would do so as soon as I can get this done with,¡± she said as she tried her best to sound as calm as possible.


    ¡°Have it now¡± he said his hand was going down on the file to cover up the entire page.


    For some reason at that very time, all she could think about was how huge his hands were. It was weird she should be worried about him being so close to her and also worried he was still butting so much into her business but all she thought of was his hands.


    ¡°Let me be done with this, Aurora would like to go over it as soon as she gets back¡± Arabe said trying to pry his hands off the book.


    As she felt his skin under hers she paused and waited for a second before she pretended like she did not just feel a weird sensation. She pulled his hand but to no avail, he seemed to be strong, in fact too strong for her.


    ¡°Tell her I said you can have lunch when others are having lunch and work when others do so as well¡±


    ¡°How can I tell her that? I might as well be digging my grave¡± she murmured but he heard her.


    ¡°I will tell her myself,¡± he said and began to lift his hands from her book.


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡± she screamed as she stood up and turned around falling into his hands.

 LIX

    The sound of a cup hitting the ground made Kieran and Arabe pull their gaze away from each other to the door where the entire team was watching them.


    Arabe was still in Kieran¡¯s hand as he held her to himself. She struggled to get out of his grip when he reluctantly let her go.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡± Aurora asked bursting through the door into the office.


    ¡°I was about to fall and he caught me¡± Arabe said quickly. She was not going to spark up any rumours. Their earlier position was not good for her and she keeping quiet and refusing to exin anything would only put her in more harm.


    ¡°Oh,¡± Aurora said. She had not been able to clearly see the position they were in. Arabe let out a sigh of relief as Aurora walked to her office.


    Kieran turned away without any word. The office workers watched him get into his office with his packed food still in his hands. Chole bent down to take the cup from the ground. She was lucky the cup did not spill open when it fell.


    Chole waited till Kieran was in his office and the door shut tightly before she ran to Arabe. She took her hand and pulled her to the kitchte. The rest of the people just tried to pretend and erase the scene they had just seen. It would be better for them.


    ¡°What was that?¡±


    ¡°What was what?¡± Arabe wanted to y dumb even though she knew it was hard. They had seen everything. She in particr was the one who stood by the door so she saw the entire thing.


    ¡°That position you were in with Kieran, are you guys dating?¡± Chole got overly excited by the thought that she might have been in a rtionship with Kieran. They seemed so intimate as they stared into each other¡¯s eyes.


    Arabe would have jerked out of his hand under normal circumstances but after hearing what he said earlier she could not help but study. She had never for once doubted that he was a beauty to behold but for some reason, he looked like a Greek god at that moment and she could not peel her eyes away from him.


    ¡®Get to your senses Arabe, what is wrong with you¡¯ her brain told her. Why was she so invested in him at that time? If she had acted rationally they would not have caught them in that position.


    ¡°Arabe¡± Chole said shaking her when she noticed she had not been listening to her all that while instead she stared into space.


    ¡°What?¡± Arabe asked turning to her


    ¡°Am I right? Are you two actually dating?¡±


    ¡°Of course not¡± Arabe jumped to defend herself. She cleared her throat and rxed her shoulders.


    ¡°I know you would say that a strong denial is actually a yes but I want you to know that it is none of that, I have to deny so strongly so that no one gets a wrong idea of the situation¡± she exined quickly.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°That¡¯s too bad¡± Chole said pushing the cup in her hand into Arabe¡¯s hands. ¡°I got this for you¡±


    ¡°Thanks¡±


    Arabe needed her sister as soon as possible so she could barely sit through the rest of the day that by the time it was time to leave, she basically flew out of her seat to the door muttering some goodbyes before leaving the premises. She was usually thest to leave so everyone found it weird that she was going first.


    ¡°Hello Seraphina¡±


    ¡°To what do I owe the honour of your special presence?¡± Seraphina was sarcastic. Arabe knew the reason for this but she was not in the mood to go back and forth with her at that time.


    ¡°I am sorry for not calling but this is an emergency¡± she cut to the chase. She needed to figure out her situation and her sister was the only person she could call for anything.


    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°Well I do not know how this would sound Sera but I have to me you for making me think about it¡±


    ¡°Hold your horses youngdy, me me for what?¡± Seraphina asked. She dropped the iPad in her hand to the table as she waited to hear what sudden usations her sister would bring her way.


    ¡°You mentioned Kieran liking me and that¡¯s all I could think about ever since then¡± Arabe.


    ¡°I only said that because of the signs I saw¡± Seraphina defended. She knew what someone like another person looked like.


    ¡°I hate to admit but you were correct about it,¡± Arabe told her sister before gulping while waiting to hear that I told you so but they never came.


    ¡°Sera?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good news¡± Seraphina squealed. If anything she was genuinely pleased that someone liked her sister and was bold enough to look past the geekiness and tell her. Her sister was beautiful but it was strange to her how men avoided her so much, she was not really lucky in the love department.


    ¡°Good news?¡± Arabe was thrown aback. Why was that good news? That was the worst news ever because she would now be stuck as a rival of Aurora even when she did not intend it and Aurora was her immediate superior.


    ¡°Yes, you moved to a new city and now a guy? Your life is on a good track¡± Seraphina added.


    ¡°I am not sure the kind of affection he has towards me but I know that this is not good news at all¡± Arabe said nodding her head.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Remember Aurora?¡± Arabe hoped her sister had not forgotten all the tales she had told her about her work superior and how she was obsessed with the man she lived with.


    ¡°I do, so she is the problem here?¡±


    ¡°Of course¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s the least of the problems,¡± Seraphina said dismissively. ¡°Tell me what you think about him¡± she added.


    ¡°About him?¡±


    ¡°Yeah about Kieran¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean do you like him?¡±


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t¡±


    ¡°You do, you definitely do¡±


    ¡°Sera, I don¡¯t¡±


    ¡°Yes you do baby girl¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about him¡±

 LX

    Arabe looked up to see unfamiliar lights It was as if she had been transported to a different location than the city she was living in.


    She looked around as her eyesnded on a mysterious structure that resembled one that belonged to an amusement park. She tried to turn on her phone but she noticed that it was switched off.


    After her conversation with her sister, she decided to take a walk around before getting home but her mindless walk soonnded her in a location that was dry like the desert. She could not even call a cab even if she wanted to. The ships with their street light that illuminated her path were all shut tight.


    She found the nearest bench and sat on it. It was when she sat down that she noticed that her legs ached from walking around. She checked out her wristwatch and saw that it was almost ten. She sighed because she knew that invariably she was stranded.


    She looked around as fear gripped her, if there were any passersby then she would have had someone to ask for help but as it was she was purely on her own.


    ¡°What were you thinking? Why are you so foolish?¡± she asked herself in annoyance as she began to offload her bag.


    She did not keep anything there and neither did she think she would have anything there that might be of help to her but she could not help but check. She might be lucky enough to have something in her bag.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    She sighed when her hand touched the end of the bag and there was nothing to bail her out. Her tummy rumbled in annoyance at not having dinner. ¡°I don¡¯t have a solution to the mess I am currently in so don¡¯t be angry that I don¡¯t have food for you¡± she whispered to her stomach and then threw her head back.


    Even if she wanted to get back she had no idea how to do so since she did not take note of the direction she came from. She just kept turning from corner to corner. Was she going to sleep outside tonight? Fear gripped her soul as she prayed for some kind of miracle at that time.


    She sniffled as she felt her throat get tighter and her eyes begin to water. She did not want to cry. She knew that crying would not solve the situation and that it would only worsen her hunger but she could not stop herself. Crying was the only solution she could think of at that time.


    Suddenly bright lights from a car crept up on her. The lights were blinding and they slowly began to dim out. She squinted as she looked towards the car. The car seemed too familiar to her but she did not care about its familiarity.


    She did not know the driver but she was grateful to finally meet a soul in this ce. When the driver dropped from the car she could not believe her eyes but Kieran was walking towards her.


    She stood up the bag in her hand dropping to the ground. She gasped as she put her hands over her mouth her eyes wide with shock.


    ¡°Kieran?¡±


    ¡°Kieran?¡± she said again as he came to a stop in front of her.


    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you? Why did you run off on your own and then proceed to walk off in the wrong direction when you don¡¯t even know your way around here?¡± Kieran asked.


    She watched his face as he spoke, his words made no sound in her ears because she was busy watching his face and how much the worry filled it.


    ¡°Thank you¡± she said throwing her arms around his neck with a sigh of relief. His body froze under her arms. Why was she on him? Why did he like the feeling?


    ¡°I was so afraid of what would have be of me¡± she whispered still holding on to him.


    His hands went up against his will and began to gently and silently stroke her back. She must have been so terrified if she ignored his shouting spree. She just went in for a hug instead, who knows what was going through her mind.


    Both of them stood there in each other¡¯s arms as Kieran tried his best to somewhatfort her in the way he knew best. After a while, Arabe sniffled and then moved back so she was no longer on him.


    ¡°I am sorry,¡± she said slowly before raising her head to meet his gaze.


    ¡°For what?¡± Kieran asked trying to dart his eyes all over the ce so he does not look at her sad face.


    ¡°For making you worry ande here at this time¡± she said and he shook his head.


    ¡°I followed you out and thought I had lost you because I could not get a hold of you so I just searched the entire area instead¡± Kieran said.


    His words sent a warm feeling to her chest. It was like in one of the many books she read when the male lead did something small for the female lead but she could not stop thinking about it because of how sweet it feels to her.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± she said again. She could not be any more grateful. She could not imagine what she would have felt if she was still alone up until this moment. Maybe she would have been bawling out her eyes.


    ¡°Shall we go?¡± he asked and she nodded. She rushed back to the bench behind her and took up her bag and then followed him to the car.


    Kieran was kind and gentlemanly enough to open up the passenger side of the car and help her get into the car. She mumbled another thanks to him.


    She could not believe how grateful she was to the same man she had sworn to avoid by all means.


    ¡°Do you want to get something to eat?¡± Kieran asked as he entered through the driver¡¯s side.


    ¡°No I am fine¡± she lied through her teeth but her stomach had other ns because it made a very angry sound right at that time.


    ¡°Seems like your stomach is saying something else,¡± he said as he started the engine.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get something to eat¡±

 LXI

    Kieran drove for a while before he came out to a busy road. Finally, Arabe saw some lights and ces her mind was able to remember. She was happy that the result of her foolishness was not that she had to sleep outside the whole night.


    He brought her to a restaurant that served hot soup and was still open at that time. From the signage, she was able to tell that it was a twenty-four-hour restaurant and that they were always open. They got their order and Arabe could barely wait for the order toe.


    ¡°I brought you here in case you caught a cold, the hot soup would help out¡± Kieran murmured as he set out the table cing the cutlery by her side and filling up her cup with water.


    ¡°Thank you, that is very thoughtful of you¡±


    Kieran had a rough time that night as well. As soon as he saw her dart out of the office he tried to follow her but by the time he was able to make it to the parking lot and drive out of his car to the main road she had gone a distance. He tried to go in the direction she usually took and then he saw her.


    She sat down in the park and spoke on the call for a long time. He turned his eyes away from her for a second and she was nowhere to be found once again. Kieran began the hunt for her by turning into every nook and cranny of the neighbourhood.


    The waiter brought out their food served it and then left the ce. ¡°The owner here is Korean so all her meals are Korean based¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Oh¡± Arabe said taking a sip from therge bowl of bone marrow soup in her front. She liked the taste and the way the heat burnt a part of her throat.


    ¡°I did not know it but this was exactly what I wanted¡± Arabe said as she took another spoon. She liked the way I went down her throat.


    ¡°Slow down,¡± Kieran said taking some of the tissue on the table to help clean the soup she spilled all over herself.


    ¡°Thank you I can do that myself¡± she said taking the tissue away from his hand. He reluctantly let go of the tissue so she could clean it up herself.


    ¡°You know unlike the way you look you are very considerate¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Unlike the way I look? How do I look?¡± Kieran was curious. He had heard many versions about himself but he was most curious to hear about what she thought.


    ¡°Unfriendly,¡± she said and he gasped. ¡°It¡¯s just that that¡¯s the way I remembered you from my childhood and you acted the same way when you came to pick me up from the airport and even all through my stay. It is just a shock to me how kind you could be¡±


    ¡°Well, I have never been told that I look unfriendly before¡±


    ¡°What have you been told then? Handsome? Breathtaking?¡± she said and instantly regretted the way her mouth ran itself.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± he said with a nod taking some of the side dishes provided by the restaurant.


    ¡°They did not lie about it though¡±


    Of all the things that Arabe thought she could say that statement was not one of them. if he knew he was a handsome man she did not need to assure him of the validity of the said im.


    She stamped her palms to the table and stood up abruptly. ¡°We should go¡± her voice came out in a squeak and Kieranughed.


    ¡°If you are embarrassed I will pretend that I did not hear that¡± he said gently as he continued with his meal.


    ¡°I am not embarrassed¡± Arabe muttered.


    ¡°Then should we talk about how you find me handsome and breathtaking?¡± he asked and she felt her heart beat faster. It was like her entire body was on a mission to embarrass her. Why did she respond when he was willing to pretend like nothing happened to make herfortable?


    ¡°I never said I find you breathtaking and handsome¡± she said and he shook his head.


    ¡°What did you say then?¡±


    ¡°I only agreed that those who found you handsome were correct. I said I found you unfriendly¡± she said and he smirked. Why did he smirk? Why was she still speaking? Did she have a life mission to embarrass herself further?


    ¡°If you say so,¡± he said but his tone did not match his words, they were screaming that he did not trust a single word she said.


    ¡°Sit down and have your dinner, I am sure you haven¡¯t had anything to eat aside from what my mom packed for you¡± his tone now sounded caring all over again.


    She slipped back into the chair, she was d the restaurant was not so crowded so she had not embarrassed herself that much with her sudden jilt from her chair.


    ¡°I promise not to make a big deal out of your confession¡± he said and she wished the ground would swallow her whole.


    How much more embarrassed did she need to be in front of him? She had gone missing in a city she had lived in before and then her stomach rumbled loudly like she was a barbarian and now she kept saying things that made him want to tease her.


    ¡°I would very much appreciate that¡± she said trying to act like a cool woman when in fact she knew she was not a cool woman. There was no kind of attitude she had disyed that would make others think that of her.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    She sent a smile his way as she focused on eating her meal. There was no need for her to keep talking or she might embarrass herself further.


    ¡°Thank you for the meal,¡± she said as they got out of the restaurant. He had insisted on paying even though she struggled, he won in the end. She wanted to have a clean te with him so that she did not need to repay him.


    ¡°The next meal is on me¡± she added and he nodded.


    ¡°Then I guess you can buy me dinner tomorrow night,¡± he said.


    ¡°Tomorrow night?¡± she screamed feeling her voice hitch in her throat.


    ¡°Yeah so you can repay me?¡± he was shocked by her reaction.


    ¡°Oh yeah, then it¡¯s a date¡±

 LXII

    ¡°Not a date,¡± Arabe said immediately. ¡°I don¡¯t mean a date like a date but a date like I am going to repay you for buying me dinner tonight, I don¡¯t know why I said date when I did not mean it¡± she rambled on.


    Kieran could not help the smile on his face. ¡°Why are you smiling?¡± she trailed off. Why was she acting as though a portion of her brain had suddenly been rewired and she could not think straight any longer?


    ¡°Because you are cute, I did not know this before but seeing you ramble nervously makes you cute,¡± he said and then abruptly turned around and started walking to the car.


    Arabe stood there unable to lift a foot, ¡°He thinks I am cute?¡± she squealed to herself. ¡°But what are you happy about that?¡± she said as if she was scolding a third party.


    ¡°Oh god¡± she said running her hands across her face in annoyance. ¡°How do I exin this? Am I losing a few brain cells? Do I need to visit a doctor?¡± She was worried she might be sick because that was the only usible exnation as to why she was delighted Kieran called her cute.


    Kieran hurried to the car, of all the things he could have said he could not believe that was his response. Since when did he know the meaning of cute? That word was not something to easily find in his vocabry because he did not know what it meant but here he was using the word like a pro.


    He sat in the car and watched Arabe in the distance fight herself. He could tell she was as embarrassed as he was. He was just going to y it cool like nothing had happened and carry on with his life.


    He hooted the horn and she was startled, she looked up to the car and made an Oh shape with her mouth before hurrying over and getting in.


    ¡°I thought you did not want to go again?¡±


    Arabe could not believe she was the only one struggling with herself. His voice was so smooth after what he had done that she could not believe he could be faking it.


    To avoid her voiceing out squeaky and then causing her to sound like a fool she just nodded and gestured for him to make his way out of the ce so they could be home and she could wallow in her embarrassment by herself. She knew she dared not tell her sister or else she would tease her about it forever.


    ¡°I am going now¡± Kieran announced like she was on some kind of public transport.


    ¡°Okay,¡± she tried to make out. She was sure she was sounding like a trapped rat.


    ¡°We are home¡± By the time they got home the lights in the house were out so they knew they had to make it upstairs quietly.


    ¡°See you tomorrow¡± Kieran said at the door and Arabe could swear that first thing tomorrow morning she was going to have her imagination removed because why was she here imagining him to be her boyfriend dripping her off and requesting another date tomorrow? Why was her mind doing this to her?


    ¡°Hmmm sure,¡± she said and walked away without looking back.


    ¡°Why are you just getting home?¡±


    Arabe stood there as if she had just seen a ghost. She could not believe that Everly had just caught her and her son sneaking back into the house at such an hour.


    ¡°Mom, what are you doing there?¡± Kieran asked.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Everly stood up and walked to them. ¡°Oh I could not sleep so I came out¡± Everly spoke with a smile but the sadness in her eyes was unmistakable.


    ¡°Are you good?¡± Arabe asked. The words flowed from her mouth so easily which shocked her because she had not yet gotten over the shock from seeing Everly out there.


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s just one of those days¡± Everly knew it was not just one of those days. She was afraid of staying in the same room with Ethan. She feared that he would jump on her suddenly.


    ¡°I better go to bed then, it would be a long day tomorrow¡± Arabe rambled. She was sure that what she was saying was nonsense but she just needed to get out of that ce as soon as she could.


    ¡°Okay Good night¡± Everly said as Arabe hurried out. ¡°I better get to bed as well¡± Everly began to walk but so slowly.


    She had told Ethan that she would be in bed as soon as the kids came and she knew she no longer had an excuse to sit out there. Should she leave for a few days? Maybe getting out of the environment would help with her mind.


    As Kieran watched his mom he hoped all was well with her. He did not want to think that something was going on between them both.


    With her mind made up Everly decided that the best thing for her to do was to leave the environment as soon as she could. If she stayed any longer she might endanger herself the more.


    ¡°I am going on a trip¡± Everly announced.


    She had insisted that everyonee for breakfast so she could find an avenue to announce it herself. Last night with her mind made up she called her friend Ava in Japan and asked if she coulde visit her and she had received the idea with open arms.


    Getting to see her friend again was something she really wanted and this was a good opportunity for her.


    ¡°What?¡± Ethan knew that Everly was not going on a trip but running away. He felt bad instantly, he should have never done that, he wondered what got over him.


    ¡°A trip? It¡¯s been a while since you travelled¡± Kieran said munching down on his meal.


    ¡°Yes, I was speaking with Avast night and said what a great idea it would be to visit and she said I coulde. She was going on leave soon and she would have time for me¡± Everly said happily.


    ¡°So it¡¯s a vacation for you?¡± Arabe asked and Everly nodded. ¡°Then I am so happy for you¡±


    ¡°I will be out the day after tomorrow¡± Everly announced.


    ¡°That¡¯s good¡±

 LXIII

    As much as Kieran wanted to know if his mom was fine he wanted to respect her decision. His father who was always domineering and had a word or two to put out there about every matter suddenly became so quiet about it.


    Kieran was confused and he decided to ask Arabe if maybe she noticed something about the whole situation.


    ¡°I will give you a ride to work,e on¡± Kieran said coldly walking by Arabe who was giving Everly travelling tips and what to expect in there.


    ¡°A ride?¡± Arabe asked in between her conversation with Everly.


    ¡°Oh my silly me, I must have kept you too long asking unnecessary questions when you are supposed to be getting to work¡± Everly pped her hands in the air as she nudged Arabe¡¯s hands.


    ¡°They are not unnecessary questions, they are essential and might help your stay there¡± Arabe said as she continued to walk out. ¡°I will tell you all you need to know as soon as I am back from work¡± she added.


    She stopped in her tracks and turned to Everly with a sorry smile. ¡°I am sorry, I have a dinner appointment so I will bete but if you are still awake and need my help I would be d to help¡±


    ¡°Dinner appointment? With who? That doctor guy, what was his name again?¡±


    ¡°Mark?¡±


    ¡°Yeah Mark, is it a date?¡± she was giddy. To her ears, it sounded wonderful that a young woman was going to find love even though hers seemed to have a rocky path.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a date and it¡¯s not with Mark¡± Arabe answered simply. Maybe she should have lied that she had to work overtime instead of mentioning the dinner.


    ¡°So a new guy? What is he this time? awyer? an engineer? an ountant?¡±Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a new guy and it¡¯s not a date, I am just meeting with a friend for dinner and I will try to make it back in time¡± Arabe exined.


    There was no way she would be telling this woman here that she got lost in the city and then got rescued by her son who both her dinner sote at night and that she promised to repay the favour by treating him to a fancy dinner and also her son had a confession that he had some feelings towards her, the types he could not exin.


    ¡°Any way have Kieran drop you off at your dinner and pick you up, we don¡¯t want you missing your way¡±


    ¡®So you are a mind reader¡¯ Arabe said within herself, sent the woman a smile and nodded. ¡°I would try my best to ask him¡±


    ¡°He might seem cold at first and refuse but I am sure he would do it anyway¡± Everly said opening the car door. She winked at her son and gestured for Arabe to go in.


    ¡°Thank you¡± Arabe murmured as she went in.


    ¡°See youter¡± Everly said as she closed the door and stepped back.


    Kieran started the car and zoomed off with Arabe waving at Everly till she was out of sight.


    Kieran did not know how to bring it up and Arabe sat there like a doll who was dressed to not say anything but look pretty. She had put in extra effort today and she did not know why. She had on a bit of mascara and eyeliner, she added powder as well.


    These were the kinds of things she usually did not have in her to do but she had done it anyway. She thought Kieran on the other hand could not tell the difference because he had not said anything about it.


    ¡°Hmm,¡± he cleared his throat making her nce at him. ¡°I want to seek your opinion on something¡± he finally let out while she drilled holes into his head from her eyes.


    ¡°Oh,¡± she said shifting in the seat. ¡°What do you want to know?¡± she would take any opportunity to stripe herself of the deafening silence in the car.


    ¡°It¡¯s about mom, don¡¯t you think she is too strange?¡±


    ¡°Strange what do you mean by strange?¡± Arabe asked. Maybe she was not as attentive as she should have been but she did not notice anything out of the ordinary with Everly. She still teased her about Mark and having a date so it was difficult to know what was wrong.


    ¡°Just listen to this and tell me if you find anything odd about the situation¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Arabe agreed because she rather have that conversation with him than stay silent and there was still some time left before they got to the office.


    ¡°So yesterday someone called and she said mom was lost and that I shoulde get her. I got there to see that she was not in her right state of mind and was a long way from home. I asked her why she trekked all this way and she imed to be taking a walk¡±


    ¡°I took her home but the situation did not sit well with me. I was going to probe her about it until I noticed that Dad was hiding something as well. They seemed to have something to say but at the same time nothing at all. And I noticed that she seemed sceptical about staying in the same room. Or maybe it was mom¡± Kieran exined.


    Arabe tried to use her mind to put two and two together maybe it would make a bit more sense if she did so. The situation however did not make sense. If they fought and she took a walk then they would have been at each other¡¯s throats as soon as they saw each other. This was what she could gather from her few months here but it seemed like they were not angry at each other ording to his narration.


    ¡°Maybe they had a little argument and said things that hurt each other¡± Arabe suggested.


    ¡°Okay so exin the trip, usually when they fight like this theye back together and settle their differences and not one person running halfway across the great ocean¡± Kieran exined.


    ¡°She might need a break and this might be a good opportunity for her.


    ¡°Do you think I am just being worried for no reason¡±


    Arabe wanted to agree but nothing is ever how it is so she shrugged and said. ¡°I hope so too¡±

 LXIV

    Kieran and Arabe were left in the office because Arabe had told him in the morning that they should not draw suspicion by going together even though everyone already knew about their living conditions.


    Arabe stood from her desk and nced at Kieran¡¯s office door, for some reason she was nervous about the situation. ¡°It¡¯s just a friendly dinner like between friends¡± she muttered to herself.


    She took gentle walks to the door trying to stabilize herself. ¡°When did you be friends,¡± she said with a sigh.


    No matter how much she wanted to deceive herself she knew it was not possible to do so. Kieran was the one to me for everything going on. If he had just kept his feelings to himself then she would not be having this torn back and forth of emotions.


    She knocked on the door and then pushed it open. She stood at the door frame using her hand to support it open. ¡°Everyone left already so we can go too,¡± she said pointing to the door.


    ¡°Oh¡± he said shuffling the papers in his hands. ¡°I guess I canplete this tomorrow then,¡± he said standing up.


    Arabe was not sure if she was grateful that he was ready to go or if she wanted to reschedule. ¡°Let¡¯s just get it over with¡± she mouthed to herself with a nod.


    ¡°What was that?¡± Kieran asked as he walked towards him.


    ¡°What was what?¡± she asked trying to y dumb. He had good hearing because even she who spoke was barely able to hear herself, how did he pick that she was trying to say something?


    ¡°I thought you said something¡±


    ¡°Oh no nothing¡± she said quickly trying to get out of the situation. They walked side by side quietly out of the office building and into the car. Kieran drove out and when he was on the road he turned to speak to her.


    ¡°Where do you want to go?¡± he asked and she looked out the window.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know anywhere here so your suggestions would be a good idea¡± Arabe knew that if it were her sister with the time she had spent here she would have known every good eating and dating location by now.


    ¡°Okay let¡¯s visit a sushi restaurant¡± Kieran suggested.


    ¡°Yay sushi,¡± she said sarcastically.


    ¡°You don¡¯t like that idea do you?¡± Kieran caught on from her sarcastic tone.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t like it. It¡¯s just that I have had enough of that tost me a lifetime when I was back home¡± Arabe responded. Her grandmother was a big fan of the meal and always found a way to include it in their meals.


    ¡°Oh I only suggested it because I thought it would be something you liked, should we change it up?¡±


    ¡°Yes please let us have something you like since I am the one treating you. You should choose something that fits your taste pte¡± Arabe rambled.


    ¡°Then I would take pizza¡±


    ¡°Pizza don¡¯t you think that¡¯s too basic?¡± she asked and he shook his head.


    ¡°Okay then to the best pizza ce in the city¡±


    ¡°Are you sure this is okay? I could have afforded something more expensive¡± Arabe said as they brought out their pizza.


    ¡°This is fine, I thought you were going to treat me to a meal I liked?¡± he asked and she nodded.


    ¡°Yeah but you know considering your status, I would have thought that you would like something maybe more fancy and expensive¡±


    ¡°Considering my status?¡± Kieran blinked at her in confusion. ¡°What is my status?¡±


    ¡°Come on you can¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t know what is being said about you¡± Arabe said and his eyes widened.


    ¡°Well, you aren¡¯t as popr as one of those rich young masters but a lot of people praise you for your ability to invest in various kinds of works around the world¡± she exined.


    ¡°I know that but what has that got to do with my status?¡± he asked taking a pizza and biting from it.


    ¡°Well, you are not on the same level as me, I see you from a different scope, I am like this daily nine-to-five worker where I depend on a sry¡± she started.


    He gestured for her to finish because it could not possibly end there. She must have a bit more to say about the matter. ¡°And you are this not-so-young man who is already up thedder¡± she added.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°I am not up thedder¡± he scoffed as he drank the juice ced on the table.


    ¡°My sister was able to find you at the click of a button,¡± she says and immediately regrets it because his eyes widen as his mouth turns to a corner and twitches.


    ¡°Your sister? Why was she looking for me?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think at all¡±


    ¡°What is it that I think?¡± he asked and she regretted her choice of words. She did not know what he thought so why did she say so?


    ¡°I am not sure but I know that it will be what you think¡± she said fast.


    ¡°Do you care to exin yourself?¡± he asked and she gulped. She could not believe that her mouth would put her in any kind of trouble in her life because she was usually one to think about her words ten times before she said them but here she was busy blurting out things to him.


    ¡°Well when I moved here at first I was going to exin who you were to her and then I noticed that we were working in the same ce so I told her and she did some research and your name came out on top¡± she exined.


    ¡°So you both thought I was popr?¡±


    ¡°Well not popr because I had never heard of you, but may be influential in your sphere because a lot of other people know you and hold you in high esteem,¡± she said.


    He nodded. ¡°So do you now hold me in high esteem?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Well I have tomend you for being so good at your work¡± she said and wanted to end it there.


    She was d he did not prove it further because he pointed to the pizza in front of them and said. ¡°Are you not going to have some?¡±

 LXV

    ¡°I said I was going to pay, why did you pay?¡±


    ¡°Because I don¡¯t want you to pay me back with just pizza¡± Kieran said in a tone that said how was that not obvious to her.


    ¡°I asked you countless times if you were okay with the meal of choice and you said yes and you were the one who even chose the meal,¡± Arabe said with a facepalm. She could not believe he was making such a move on her.


    Now that he had paid she had to still repay him even though she thought she would do it in one go and get it over with.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°Now I have to do this again,¡± she said in a groan.


    ¡°You say it like it¡¯s a bad thing,¡± Kierans said with his head tilted as they walked out of the restaurant.


    ¡°Not like it¡¯s a bad thing, it¡¯s just that I thought I would do this and get it over with¡± she said and he nodded.


    ¡°Just treat me to something better next time¡± he said and she nodded.


    ¡°There is no way I am letting you be the one to pick the ce. I will do proper research and let you know what I came up with¡± he sounded so giddy it was hard to miss.


    ¡°I can¡¯t tell what you are excited about, the probability of us having a meal together soon or the fact that you would be researching to pick a restaurant¡± he said and sheughed a little.


    ¡°As much fun as you think you are, I think that researching something takes the cap,¡± he said.


    He could not believe he had forgotten what a nerd she was and he let out a kind of distorted snort. She turned to him in amusement. ¡°What was that?¡±


    ¡°I just remembered something random¡± he said and she was curious.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Nothing¡±


    ¡°Now my interest is piqued. The random thing you remembered could not possibly be about me, but you see I have this guy feeling which is always right about ny-eight percent of the time, so this is about me right?¡±


    She wondered to herself when she got sofortable with him. She knew she would normally try her best to avoid him for reasons only she knew but she wanted to be all up in his business tonight.


    ¡°And what happens if this falls into the remaining two percent?¡± Kieran was curious.


    She pressed her lips together and then smirked. ¡°Then I would agree that I was wrong, but I cannot agree to it unless I know what you are talking about,¡± she said.


    ¡°You drive a hard argument, it¡¯s almost impossible for you to lose so let¡¯s assume that you are correct¡±


    ¡°Assume?¡± she scoffed and he nodded. ¡°I am not a fan of assumptions so if you could tell me why you had that loud snort, I would be most delighted¡± She smiled weirdly as she spoke like she was spat out of a nies book.


    ¡°I just thought of how much of a nerd you always have been¡±


    ¡°How dare you!¡±


    Arabe was not a fan of being called a nerd, she had a kind of trauma from hearing the word. Although her reaction was always physical and not anything mentally or psychological she did not like being associated with the word because she always had a bad experience being called that.


    The people who called her nerds always turned out to be bullies who wanted nothing much with her aside from bullying her for being smart.


    ¡°I am sorry¡± Kieran went straight into defence.


    He could tell from her face that she was not pleased with being called a nerd. ¡°I did not mean it in any way you took it, I just meant that you have always been smart and a fan of books,¡± he said quickly.


    He watched her his eyes never wavering from her face as her tensed expression lightened up a bit and her mouth which was in a straight line turned into a curve.


    ¡°I did not know that the word was a bad thing now,¡± he said and she shook her head.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a bad thing I just do not like being addressed by that word¡± she said and even though he could not understand why he decided to ept it the way she made it.


    ¡°Do you want to go for a walk?¡± He asked changing the topic. Arabe gave him a questioning look and he knew he had to exin further.


    ¡°Like taking a walk after eating would help us digest our meals and we can even exercise while digesting our meals which I think would be a good idea because we barely get the chance to exercise because of work¡­¡± he rambled.


    He only stopped when he felt her hand on his arm. ¡°I would have loved to walk around the area, helping myself with exercise and digestion at the same time¡± she replied with a smirk.


    He knew she was teasing her and he wondered why he had rambled. He did not want to go home because he knew that it meant he had to be away from her. He wanted just a few more minutes with her even if it meant he had to ramble like a lost child.


    ¡°But I promised your mom I would be back home early so I can give her a bit more advice about travelling,¡± she said.


    Kieran knew there was nothing more to say. If he tried to find a way to keep her out a bit more he knew that she could catch on and he did not want to seem weird in her presence so he nodded and gestured for them to go to the car.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get home early then¡± he said. He knew his voice sounded like he was displeased with the situation but he could not help himself.


    His mom had been pestering him about getting a love partner but she was not helping him out in any way. He sighed as they got to the car. Arabe gave him a questioning look and he shook his head.


    ¡°Thank you for the ride,¡± Arabe said as they came into the driveway.


    ¡°Do you think I can kiss you?¡±

 LXVI

    ¡°What?¡± Arabe felt her mouth hang open as her face turned into a shocked expression.


    ¡°What?¡± he said back as if he did not understand what she was saying.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± she mustered her courage to ask.


    ¡°What did I say?¡± he asked as he tried to keep his eyes off her and on the road.


    ¡°You just asked me¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why I said that¡± he said quickly cutting her off before she couldplete her statement. ¡°I don¡¯t know why I said it and I cannot justify the reason, I am sorry,¡± he said in haste like he could not wait for the situation he created to be over.


    ¡°Oh¡± she said biting a corner of her lips. She knew that if she remained a minute more she would be feeling more than embarrassed so she grabbed the handle of the hand and pushed it open. ¡°I better go now,¡± she said as she dropped down from the car and walked away as swiftly as her legs could take her.


    ¡°What was that?¡± Kieran asked himself when he saw her enter the house.


    ¡°You were already having a great rapport with her but you had to go ahead and ruin it by saying something like that¡± he said hitting his hand on the steering wheel.


    He knew that she would go ahead to try and avoid him tomorrow because she would be feeling so awkward about the situation. He sat for a few more minutes in the car hoping not to run into her. He knew that that would be the best solution for him.


    He parked properly in the garage and made his way in through the kitchen door and right there on the kitchen coffee table was Arabe and Everly having a chat. His eyes fell on her and he tried his best to take them away but he was failing so miserably it was kind of cute.


    ¡°Kieran there you are¡± Everly said with a chirpy voice. Everly sounded so much better than she did in the morning so it gave Kieran some kind of relief but not so much because he was in such close range with Arabe.


    ¡°I had something to do¡± he murmured as he tapped his feet to the ground.


    ¡°Do you want to have tea with us?¡± Everly asked standing and going to the teapot on the counter. ¡°Arabe here was just telling me a lot of tales about Japan and the way they live which I think you would find fun¡± she said taking a cup in her hand.


    Kieran shook his head, he had to give Arabe a little space or else she might think he was crazy for acting that way.


    ¡°I had a bit of a long day so I better go in to rest¡± he said walking across the kitchen to the door that led to the rest of the house.


    ¡°Oh, you did¡± Everly¡¯s voice dropped but she still had a smile on her face. ¡°I was thinking we could spend a little time together since I leave the day after tomorrow¡±


    Kieran stopped in his tracks and his eyes fell on Arabe. His gaze was questioning if he was permitted to spend a little time with his mother. Arabe knew what that gaze meant and she did not want him running through her mind so the best thing to do was to give them some privacy.


    ¡°I am also so very exhausted and I think resting would be best for me since I have work tomorrow¡± Arabe stood up and forced a yawn out of her mouth.


    ¡°Oh, you are, of course you are, silly me,¡± Everly said all at once. ¡°Yes of course go and rest¡±


    ¡°We can pick it up tomorrow night, since you leave the next day I can stay up all night to help you with your luggage and that way I can keep you entertained with my fun tales¡± Arabe offered.


    She knew that she might notice that she was escaping from being in the same room with her son but what option did she have? She hurriedly crossed the kitchen and let out a breath she did not know she was holding when she got out of the kitchen.


    She climbed the stairs with some kind of haste and made it to her room. For the first time since she got there, she pushed herself into the room like something was chasing her and then closed the door.


    She sat on the bed, she wanted to share the experience with someone but knew that her sister would make a big deal out of it if she was to hear it. Sheid down on the bed with her back and her face facing the ceiling as she tried to count sheep.


    She knew she had to take off the little make-up she had made an effort to put on in the morning. As she thought of the makeup her mind cast back to what he had said.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡®Do you think I can kiss you?¡¯


    She closed her eyes and tried her best to divert her thoughts from reying his voice and those words in her mind but she was failing because she kept imagining different scenarios where he was saying those words to her.


    She sat up to the bed in haste and pushed herself to get her face washed and then prepare for bed. If she put her mind to work there would be no way her mind would have the energy to wander around as well.


    By the time she was done with her night routine and shey in bed, she noticed that her mind seemed to be doing a little trick on her because she could not shake off his voice. It was like a brain worm stuck there repeating the sentence as many times as it wished.


    ¡°What do I do?¡± she turned in bed when her eyesnded on a manuscript on the table.


    She stood up and went to it, she picked it up and opened it if she could not sleep she had to wear her mind down.


    She was startled to reality by a knock on her door, at first she thought her mind was ying a trick until she heard it again. She walked quietly to the door and pressed her ears against it before whispering ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me can we talk?¡±

 LXVII

    ¡°Can we talk?¡± Kieran asked again when she made no move.


    ¡°Hold on¡± she said and he heard her shuffle through the room and then a loud shout from her.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± she eximed and he became startled as if he should go through the door to see what had happened.


    ¡°What was that?¡± he asked.


    Arabe bit her lips down as she tried to suppress the pain she felt from hitting her small toe on the corner of the chair in the middle of her room. She was embarrassed that after all this time she still did not know thepleteyout of the room.


    ¡°I just hit my foot against the chair¡± she let out with a groan. He rxed but was not okay with the fact that he could not see what was going on inside.


    She picked up a house robe and strapped it over her body. She tightened it around the waist, stood and tried to steady her breathing. She took a deep breath with her eyes closed and then they flew open before she walked to the door and opened it.


    He stood there in his pyjamas and this was the first time she had seen him in something else other than full clothing and she could not lie his image was as beautiful as always.


    ¡°You wanted to talk?¡± She mustered her courage to speak and not focus her mind on his body.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± he said clearing his throat. His eyes went down to her feet. ¡°Is your foot okay or do you want me to get the first aid box?¡± he asked and she shook her head.


    ¡°Oh I am good, it¡¯s just a little bump nothing I am not quite used to¡± She could not remember thest time she was so clumsy that she had stubbed her feet but he could not deny having been a witness to her clumsiness.


    ¡°But still,¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± she said dismissively so that he did not need to stress about it.


    ¡°If I don¡¯t get a first aid box to help treat that,¡± he said pointing to her feet. ¡°I would not be fine because I would keep thinking that I caused that,¡±


    ¡°Because you know I came here when you were already getting ready for bed,¡± he said trying to rify.


    ¡°Maybe we should get the first aid box then¡± she said closing the door to her room and gesturing for him to lead the way.


    Kieran led Arabe to a side of the house she had not been to before. It was like a study and a man cave at the same time.


    ¡°This is my little corner in the house,¡± he said as they walked in. She made an O shape with her mouth to show that she understood what he was saying.


    ¡°And there¡± he said pointing to the doors at the end of the room. ¡°That leads to my room,¡± he said.


    She did not know why she needed the information but she nodded anyway.


    ¡°Where did I keep that box?¡± he asked himself as he went to the shelve to check through it.


    ¡°Here it is¡± he said taking a box off the shelves.


    ¡°Come sit¡± he said tapping the sofa beside him. She looked around like she was searching for something there, she rubbed her hands on her dress nervously as she walked toward him silently.


    She dropped to the sofa beside him keeping a reasonable distance between them. ¡°Your feet¡± he said pointing them.


    ¡°What?¡± she asked folding her toes into themselves.


    ¡°I need to see them be able to know what is wrong and how to treat them,¡± he said and she nodded.


    He was correct but how could she expose her legs to him? Since she got there she had not gone out for a pedicure and she was not sure about the state of her legs.


    ¡°Since the box is here I can do it myself¡± she said slipping her feet out of the slippers that had been covering the damage and lifting her legs and trying to put them in a weird position on herp.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°That seems difficult and almost impossible,¡± he said as he held her ankle. He pulled her legs gently toward himself and dropped them to hisp.


    ¡°It would only take a minute¡± he said essing the leg. ¡°Thank goodness I asked that you have it treated, it seems like the wound is exposed¡±


    She gulped as she felt his hand run across the wound. ¡°I can do it myself¡± she said trying to get her feet out of hisp as soon as she could.


    She was out of order by him yanking her leg back into ce. ¡°Just stay still and we will be done soon¡±


    He took out a bottle which happened to be methted spirits because she winced in pain as the cold liquid touched the exposed skin area and left a burning sensation on her feet.


    ¡°So sorry¡± he said blowing on her legs gently.


    ¡°It¡¯s supposed to sting¡± she said curling her toes to stop him from blowing on it.


    ¡°Yes it is¡± he said as he continued to work on her feet till he was done. ¡°All done¡± he said after a while and she dropped her feet to the ground and slipped it quickly into the slipper.


    She could not believe that he had touched her feet and wasfortable about it. She knew her legs were in a bad state and normally she could care less about things like that but it did bother her that he had to see her like that.


    ¡°Thank you¡± she murmured as she tried to sit on the edge of her seat.


    Kieran cleared his throat standing to his feet and walking to the shelf to drop back the box in hand. ¡°Do you want something to drink?¡± he asked and she looked around.


    ¡°As long as it¡¯s not coffee¡± she said and he nodded before taking out a can of beer and a packed orange juice and handing it over to her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t get a beer?¡± she asked when she saw his hand.


    ¡°Do you want a beer?¡±


    ¡°Sure one can of beer would not kill¡±

 LXVIII

    ¡°So you wanted to talk?¡± Arabe said as soon as he handed the can of beer to her. ¡°About?¡± she dragged out as she waited for him to take a seat.


    ¡°What happened tonight,¡± he said and she grimaced.


    ¡°You know I would have preferred if you just pretended like it did not happen and just gone with the flow,¡± she told him.


    ¡°I considered that but it would have been against me¡± he said and she turned to him.


    ¡°Against you? How?¡±


    ¡°I would not be able to get it off my mind and it would keep me all night and it even gets worse because I have to see you tomorrow¡± he said and she dropped the can to the table.


    ¡°I have barely dated anyone but seeing you act this way it¡¯s obvious you have not dated anyone as well¡± Arabe said throwing Kieran into a fit of confusion.


    They were speaking of how embarrassing he had been that evening why was she suddenly talking about his love life and how well he had lived it?


    ¡°Why did you conclude so?¡± he asked taking a chug from his can.


    ¡°Because you think talking about it makes it better¡± she said and he shook his head.


    ¡°I thought talking about everything made it better?¡± he asked and she was taken aback.


    In normal day-to-day life, one wants to encourage the other to alwaysmunicate and speak about things they want to do and say because talking about it makes it better but now that it was time to apply it to a real-life situation it seemed like an abstract rule.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°Different?¡± he asked cutting her off before she could run her mouth creating an excuse for the situation.


    She opened her mouth and closed it rapidly like she was gasping for breath but it was obvious she had nothing to say.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t think that talking about it makes it better I do¡± he said pressing his lips and turning to her. ¡°And I am going to talk about it till we both feel better,¡± he said.


    ¡°Go on,¡± she said with a whimper as she took her can back and held it with both hands. If he thought talking would help she would let him do all the talking while she listened to what he had to say.


    ¡°I was not just ying around when I asked you if I could kiss you, I know I said it was a mistake but that was because I panicked and had to say something to make it seem better¡± he said tilting his head.


    ¡°I am sorry for lying¡± he said and Arabe blew up her mouth before forcing herself to speak.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to be sorry I was only taken aback by your request because you don¡¯t seem to be the kind of person who says things like that,¡± she tells him and he nods.


    ¡°I don¡¯t usually do things like that but since you got here I have been doing things I don¡¯t usually do and I like doing them¡±


    ¡°You like doing them?¡±


    ¡°Yes I like doing those things I don¡¯t usually do, they give me some kind of thrill, it¡¯s wonderful,¡± he said like a child recounting his experience on a ride.


    ¡°I¡¯m d,¡± she said. It was a conversation so she had to reply or else she might feel awkward.


    ¡°I just wanted to rify that¡±


    After chatting a bit more Arabe decided to call it a night. She was d he hade forward and suggested that they had the talk or else she might toss and turn all night.


    Although she was now aware that he did not say it in error she still felt at ease as if she was given a warm bath that was going to knock her right into bed. The remaining conversation with Kieran was not as awkward as the conversations she had with him when she first knew him.


    They flowed like they had been long-time acquaintances who were catching up after a long time of disconnection. She could not even pinpoint the exact thing they spoke about but she knew the conversation gave her a warm feeling in her chest and she loved it.


    She entered her room and picked up her phone from the table where she sat to do her work before he came knocking. She dropped her robe on the chair before moving to the bed. She needed to get a little shut-eye before the next morning or else she might oversleep again.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    She checked her message and discovered one from Mark. He was asking for a date out and frankly speaking she had not reached out since thest time they were together so it was not a bad idea for her to see him again.


    She left a message that agreed to meet him after work for dinner tomorrow night. She dropped her phone on her bedside table and switched on her night light before falling into bed and deep sleep quicker than she could count.


    As she envisioned she overslept and now was hurrying to make it in time to work. She got out of her room to meet Kieran standing there casually ncing at his watch.


    ¡°Oh my god what are you doing standing there?¡± she asked her hand on her chest as she was shocked to see him standing out there.


    ¡°Waiting for you, good morning¡± he said taking himself off the wall he had been resting his eyes still on his watch as if he was reading something important on them.


    ¡°Good morning¡± she said feeling her throat hitch in her throat.


    ¡°You are awfullyte¡± he said his eyes gradually going up to meet hers. ¡°And beautiful¡± he said and she felt her heart begin to beat faster than it should.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I meant you look quite different today,¡± he said quickly to cover up what he had said earlier.


    ¡°Oh,¡± she said forck of words to address him and what he had said.


    ¡°We would bete at the point if we don¡¯t get going immediately¡± he said gesturing that they should be on their way.


    ¡°Yes that¡¯s true¡± Arabe said moving ahead.


    ¡°Thank you for waiting for me,¡± she said as they sat in the car and it began to go down the main road.


    ¡°Anytime¡±

 LXIX

    ¡°Are you treating me to dinner tonight?¡± Kieran asked as they rounded the corner and approached the office building.


    ¡°Oh no¡± Arab said shaking her head. ¡°Not tonight¡± she said pressing her lips together.


    ¡°Not tonight?¡± he was shocked. ¡°You sound like you have a n¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Arabe gasped as if she was offended by his statement but it was the contrary for her. If anyone knew her well they would know she was exhausted with the back and forth of going out and wanted to try her best to avoid it.


    ¡°You are not really an outdoor person¡± he said and she nodded.


    ¡°That is correct but I am meeting Mark tonight, he asked to meet¡±


    Kieran suddenly felt bile rise in his throat as it suddenly became bitter he wanted to spit around. ¡°Mark?¡± his voice was low as if he wasmanded to whisper.


    ¡°Yeah, he reached out and I agreed to go¡±


    Kieran could see that Arabe was not aware of the intense anger he felt for hearing that piece of information because she still maintained and acted oblivious. Maybe she knew and was just trying her best to act dumb about it.


    ¡°So not tonight, we can do another night,¡± she said as he drove in.


    Since Kieran was not sure of the emotions he was facing he knew it would be best for him not to get involved and to act as if hearing everything she had said did not affect him in any way. He nodded his head and said nothing more till he parked in his spot.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t youing down?¡± she asked when she noticed that he made no move to even take off his seat belt but just sat staring into space.


    ¡°Go on without me, I have an important call to make,¡± he said lying through his teeth. He wanted to give his mind an award for quicklying up with that answer to her question.


    ¡°Okay,¡± she murmured pushing herself out of the car, waving to him before walking away.


    As she walked away she tried to rey the entire ride in her mind. It seemed like she might have offended him because of the scowl on his face. He was not usually approachable and friendly but he did not always carry a scowl with him. She tried to assess the situation and she knew she did not do anything to put him off.


    She saw how hard he tried to stay calm and notsh out. She did nothing wrong so she should not be worried trying to rack her brain to know what she did but why could she not stop?


    She pushed herself to her desk immersing herself in the day¡¯s work. She only got out of her seat to have lunch with her co-workers and Kieran was nowhere to be found.


    Considering the way he had been on her case about lunch in the past few days she was wondering why he was missing during lunch.


    She tried her best to act normal and that her mind was not constantly wandering to Kieran all through the day. She buried herself in work and then the end of the day was there.


    Since Mark had said he would be picking her up she knew she had to wait till he was near to step out so she decided to stay back and do some more research for the uing work they were preparing for.


    The office lights were off and she was left alone at her desk with a small reading light illuminating the table. She jumped up in fear when a tap was heard at her table. She did not hear him walking to her which was what gave her the extreme fear she had just experienced.


    She was alone in the office so the possibility of another person being with her was what gave her the extreme fear she just experienced. She wanted to talk but her hand over her mouth and widened eyes somehow could not return to normal.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± she asked when she finally regained herself.


    ¡°I was passing by and I saw the light,¡± he said.


    She turned around the room trying to understand what he meant. Her table was far from the door so she was sure it would be impossible for them to see the small light from her table through the thick door.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°That¡¯s a lie¡± he muttered and she nodded. She dropped the book in her hand to the table. She had been careful enough to not let her fear allow her to drop the book to the ground. She would have been even sadder if the book had dropped and maybe even cried in horror.


    ¡°Why did you lie?¡± she asked standing to her feet and her eyes caught the clock. She could not believe she had been so immersed in her reading that she did not notice how far the time had gone.


    She tapped her phone screen to see if she might have missed a notification from Mark but the nk screen stared at her.


    ¡°I thought you were meeting the doctor¡± Kieran said clearing her throat as he clenched his hands to his side.


    ¡°I am still waiting for him¡± Arabe replied. She was ufortable to admit that it seemed like she had been stood up and she wanted to so desperately make an excuse for him since he had been such a joy when she met himst.


    ¡°How much longer are you going to wait?¡± Kieran asked and she cleared her throat looking away. ¡°It¡¯s been three and a half hours now¡± he added.


    ¡°I am sure something came up, maybe at the hospital,¡± Arabe said and he nodded.


    ¡°I am also sure that he would reach out to you when he is done with whatever is holding him up,¡± Kieran told her. He was relieved that the date fell through because who knows she might havee back being his girlfriend.


    He was a man and he knew these things even though he would not like to admit it. He could tell that Mark liked her but the thought of them being a couple did not sit well with him.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we have dinner?¡±

 LXX

    Arabe nodded and went with him, she had nothing to do anyway. She kept checking her phone to see if he would reach out but there was no news. He was a doctor so it¡¯s possible there was an emergency at the hospital and he needed to be there. She was sure he would reach outter.


    ¡°It¡¯s my treat¡± Arabe announced as soon as they got to the location.


    ¡°No, it is not¡± Kieran said as she pushed himself out of the car.


    Arabe gathered herself together and came down trying her best to match his step. Kieran slowed down to allow her and she came beside him as they walked into the restaurant.


    ¡°Why won¡¯t you let me pay?¡± She asked and he shook his head.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to use my payment this way¡± he said and she wondered what he meant.


    ¡°What payment?¡± she asked. She was just going to pay for dinner to thank him so why was he talking like she owed him money?


    ¡°You¡¯ll see,¡± he said. She waited for him to show her but there was nothing moreing from him. She pressed her lips together as they were ushered to their table. She had a lot more questions but did not want to ask.


    Maybe she would see with time what he meant. They began to eat and then her phone vibrated on the table. She tried to act calm as she took up the phone and tapped on it but she was shaking and she was sure that Kieran could see her shaky hands.


    He took up his cup of water and sipped from it. ¡°Remember you said you were going to talk with Mom¡± Kieran said dropping the cup to the table.


    ¡°Oh yeah,¡± she said as she checked her phone. She read over the text from Mark and it was a single line.


    ¡®I am sorry I cannot make it¡¯


    She read it over and over again as if she was hoping it would have a new meaning each time she read it but she was stuck with the same line repeating itself in her mind a thousand times.


    She was not anyone special in his life but at least she hoped he would exin why he suggested a date and then stood her up. She was not interested in a rtionship but he piqued her interest.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it illegal to do this?¡± she said out loud. She dropped the phone on the table and took up her form and knife holding the knife in such a dangerous way.


    ¡°To do what?¡± Kieran asked gently taking away the knife from her hand.


    He did not know her tendencies but he was notfortable with the cement of the knife so he had to do something about it.


    ¡°For someone to suggest a date and then bail¡± She asked clenching her fist.


    ¡°ording to thew? No¡± he said and she shot him a death re. He was sure his heart began to beat a few beats faster than usual. Her look was cute but he could not help but feel a kind of fear.


    ¡°It should be illegal, definitely¡± he said trying to at least save himself from her look.


    ¡°I mean it¡¯s so unfair, he reached out first shouldn¡¯t he at least exin the reason he had to bail?¡± Arabe asked as they walked from the coffee shop to the car.


    Arabe had been quiet the entire meal after shooting Kieran the death re and him trying to save himself. This was the first time she broke the silence after answering every one of his requests with a nod or a head shake.


    She had been thinking about what had happened and she could not seem to find a reliable and suitable exnation for what he had done. Kieran looked at her shocked to hear her voice.


    ¡°It¡¯s because he is a jerk¡± he said and she was shocked such words coulde from him. She was even more shocked because it seemed like he was supporting her.


    ¡°He is?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I know guys like him¡±


    ¡°You do?¡± his words did not match his personality so she was not sure if she could take his words for it.


    ¡°I am a guy so I do know,¡± he said and she looked him up and down. He rushed ahead of her to open up the door for her. She was touched by the gesture as she mouthed a thank you to him while getting in.


    He closed the door and walked over to his side. It was obvious now that she waspletely free. Mark had for some reason known to him given himself some minus points so it meant he had a few plus for him if he could act well.


    ¡®Why are you trying to get some plus points?¡¯ he asked himself as he entered. He dropped his cup into the cup holder and began the car.


    ¡°So he is a jerk?¡± Arabe liked the fact that he was badmouthing this guy he did not know. It put her in a good mood that she wanted to hear more.


    ¡°Yeah, maybe he had another option and decided to go with her,¡± Kieran said.


    He truly thought that Mark was smitten with Arabe but this could be an option.


    ¡°So I was just an option?¡± Arabe¡¯s voice sounded furious.


    ¡°I said maybe, he is the only one who could exin fully why he decided to do what he did,¡± Kieran said.


    Maybe he was just a good actor and wanted to somehow toy with Arabe. Maybe he was swamped at work and just barely had the energy to send the text. Maybe something came up for him in his personal life.


    ¡°I would call him¡± she announced as she had finally made her decision. Kieran wanted to stop her but why would he say he stopped her?


    She looked at him as though she was seeking validation. He nodded with a shrug and then she took a deep breath before getting on the call.


    ¡°Hello¡± Mark¡¯s voice came through the phone. Arabe tried to listen to the background noise and there was a solemn musicing through. It seemed like he was in a fancy ce.


    ¡°This is Arabe¡±


    ¡°I know¡± his usual cheerful voice was distant and cold.


    ¡°You bailed, I wanted to know why?¡± Arabe said and he swallowed so hard she could hear it.


    ¡°My wife is back in the city, I don¡¯t think we can meet for the time being,¡± he said and the line cut off from her end. She stared at the phone in disbelief.


    ¡°His wife?¡±

 LXXI

    ¡°What did he say?¡± Kieran asked eager to know what was going on.


    He just said his wife was in town and that he could not meet with me. Does this mean that he is married already?¡± Arabe asked trying to wrap her mind around the situation.


    His fingers had been void of any rings at all so it would be difficult for her to know he was married. He did not say anything about his marriage either.


    ¡°oh my gosh!¡± Arabe eximed loudly. ¡°I feel so stupid¡± she added in annoyance.


    ¡°Why?¡± Kieran asked. None of this was her fault. ¡°Were you aware that he had a wife?¡± he followed up.


    ¡°No,¡± she said shaking her head vigour.


    ¡°Then how does this make you stupid? It¡¯s all his fault for leading you on¡±


    ¡°I mean I should have picked up on the signs¡± she said cutting him before he could say anything more.


    ¡°Do you see any signs?¡± he asked.


    She paused, took a deep breath and thought of it intently. ¡°I did not but¡­¡±


    ¡°You are too hard on yourself, how would you have known that he was married if he did not tell you?¡± he asked her.


    She knew that this was not her fault but it did not make her feel better. She was already trying to let herself fall for a married man?


    ¡°I mean I could not believe I was already considering him as a potential partner¡± she told him.


    She hated how she felt about herself at that time. It seemed like she had always been making the wrong decisions all through her life. She was always somehow regretting the choices she made.


    ¡°How could you have known that he is just a jerk who is a cheater?¡± Kieran asked.


    He felt his blood boiling but he knew thatshing out now would only put Arabe more on edge. He was going to have a personal talk with Markter but for now, all his attention needed to be on Arabe.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± she said sniffing. She felt her throat constrict as she felt tears brim the corner of her eyes. She wanted to let it go but she could not cry. It was not her fault so why did she feel so terrible?


    ¡°I thought he liked you but I must have been mistaken. It seems like he was only interested in you because he was not with his wife¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°And none of this is your fault, I am sure you would not have been with him if you were aware of this fact¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Arabe said trying to defend herself. ¡°I guess there goes dating for me,¡± Arabe said.


    Her attempt to date was suddenly ruined by the man she was trying to get into a rtionship with.


    ¡°Should we go for a drive? We can take a long drive and then get some fresh air¡± Kieran suggested.


    ¡°Just like that?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go¡± he said ignoring her question.


    ¡°Well I guess so¡±


    Kieran drove with no destination in mind. Arabe let down the window and let the breeze fill the car. She was not particrly happy about the situation and most importantly she did not like that it happened in front of Kieran but she was d with the way he handled it.


    ¡°I want to scream¡± she murmured gently her face out in the window with the air pping hard against her skin.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°Then scream,¡± Kieran said.


    She put her head back fully into the car and then gave him a questioning look. ¡°You won¡¯t even ask me why?¡±


    ¡°Asking you why won¡¯t solve the issue at hand and you doing what you want would be better to let you let go easier,¡± he said.


    His words made sense but she wanted to beforted. She wanted to call her sister but she knew the girl would want to cuss out the man and demand his number. If she refused to provide his contact details she would go the extra mile to get it.


    ¡°I just can¡¯t believe this happened when I was about to give rtionships a try. I mean I had been good before, the books gave mefort and the life I lived was simple. I might have been bullied in school but at least I had a loving and supportive family so I thought all was okay but it turns out I just have extremely bad luck¡±


    She stopped to take a deep breath. Kieran wanted to encourage her but he wanted to hear what she had to say first. ¡°I mean I thought he was handsome and no that was not the reason I wanted to go into a rtionship with him. I mean he was always a gentleman each time we met¡±


    She wanted to stop talking because she could not believe she was being so vulnerable with him but she just needed to rant and he happened to be there. She loved how silent he was and not trying to give her unsolicited advice.


    ¡°He was like a perfect man. I mean maybe that should have been an eye-opener for me. He was like a man who popped out of a book, those men don¡¯t exist in real life after all¡± she mumbled. ¡°Every single time we meet he finds a way to make me like a princess¡± she said turning her face back to him.


    ¡°He is a pro¡± she added with a sigh before turning to the window again.


    The car fell silent for a few good minutes. She was grateful for the ce to rant and then be at peace.


    ¡°Can I ask something?¡± Kieran suddenly said breaking off the silence.


    ¡°What is it?¡± she asked. She was grateful for the silence but she did not mind him breaking it off.


    ¡°Are you still interested in going into a rtionship?¡± he asked.


    She faced him so half her body was directed at him. ¡°Why do you ask?¡±


    ¡°Are you interested?¡± he asked again.


    ¡°I thought it wouldn¡¯t be a good idea before but now I am not so sure anymore¡±


    ¡°If you are still interested then you should consider me¡±

 LXXII

    Arabe stared at him and did not know what to say. She had been interested in getting into a rtionship but not with him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what to say,¡± she said and he nodded.


    ¡°I know, you can take your time to think about it¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°What made me ask?¡± he cut her off asking as if he read her mind.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she said shocked with a nod.


    ¡°I was going to ask for a while now, you know I told you that you intrigue me. Seeing that I almost lost you to that jerk of a boy makes me so sad that I know I must ask you or else I would be cheating myself¡± he said looking ahead to the road.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°Just think about it okay? If you don¡¯t want it, I would not pressure you or try to make it ufortable for you¡± he said.


    He was trying his best to stay calm as possible. He did not n to ask her this way or anytime soon. He had wanted to watch himself a bit more. He wanted to see and know if he was over Kimberly or if seeing her was just some way of nature ying a prank on him.


    She was theplete opposite of Kimberly who he had always thought of as his type. She was nerdy and preferred books to anything outside. She spoke with so much enthusiasm and for him watching her speak did things to his insides. The kind of things he was yet to understand.


    ¡°To tell you the truth, when he picked you for the date thest time I did not like it. It felt as though someone was taking away what was mine¡± he stopped when he heard himself.


    ¡°I am not saying you are mine,¡± he said in a defending voice. ¡°I am only telling you how I felt about it. I am not really sure if what I feel for you is love but I want to find out¡± he continued exining.


    It seemed like the roles were reversed so quickly because Arabe felt like she should listen to him. She had nothing to tell him anyway because she had not thought about their rtionship evolving this way. They had be closer in the past week but she always thought of it as something that would end up in friendship.


    ¡°And today as well, I was not happy when I heard you would be meeting him again which made me stay away from the office, I would not lie I felt a bit of jealousy and I was happy when I saw you waiting back at the office. I thought to myself, This is a chance for me again¡±


    ¡°So please think about it and let me know¡± he ended.


    The car fell silent again and this time it was awkward and long. She was not expecting this and he did not believe that he would be saying any of the things he said today.


    ¡°Should we go home?¡±


    ¡°Yes please¡±


    Arabe rushed into the house as soon as they made it in time. She went up into her room with Everly on her tail.


    ¡°Wait up¡± Everly said before Arabe could get the door shut in her face.


    ¡°Oh Everly I did not see you there¡± Arabe said holding the door for the woman toe in.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°I noticed your mind was not with you, I have been following you and trying to catch up with you from downstairs but it seems like you are in a hurry¡± Everly said getting into the room.


    ¡°I love what you have done with your room,¡± Everly said looking around.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Arabe said. She put in a little decor to match what Everly had already done there. She kept bringing in the decor one after the other and this was the first time Everly was seeing the finished work.


    ¡°It¡¯s so simple and chic¡± Everly said taking her seat on the bed.


    ¡°Can I take a quick shower?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°Of course, I would wait right here¡± Everly responded. ¡°You said you were going to tell me all I needed to know about my trip¡± Everly added when she saw the confusion on the girl¡¯s face.


    ¡°Oh yeah, sorry about that, I must have had a long day seeing that I could not remember¡± Arabe said with an apologetic voice.


    She had a long day but it was not the reason she forgot about what she said in the morning. The major reason was because her son had just asked her out and not just in the normal way one would but in the most weird way ever.


    From his speech, she was not sure if he wanted to be with her or if he was just trying to satisfy his curiosity. She did not know if she should be excited about it or if she should cry. It was all confusing and messing greatly with her mind.


    ¡°It¡¯s all okay, I would not take your entire night because I know you have to get to work early tomorrow, so I¡¯ll just take an hour¡± Everly said making herself at home on the bed she had sat on.


    ¡°A quick shower¡± Arabe said turning to the bathroom direction.


    As she stood under the shower and the warm water touched her skin her mind could not help but wander to Kieran¡¯s words. What answer does she give him? Who else could she exin to?


    She wrapped up the shower as quickly as she could before she sat down with Everly. ¡°You look worried, do you want to share?¡± Everly asked.


    ¡°I look worried?¡± Arabe asked tapping her face gently. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m not worried¡± Arabe could not tell her that her son had asked her out.


    ¡°Yeah, you see I am an old woman and I have experience with these kinds of things, you have a worry line right on your forehead¡± Everly pointed to her forehead.


    ¡°I did not want to tell you this but I have no one else to talk to,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay you can tell me¡± Everly said in a reassuring voice.


    ¡°Your son asked me out¡±

 LXXIII

    ¡°Kieran did?¡± Everly asked shifting in the bed.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Arabe said nodding.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Everly asked. Before Kimberly came his way he had no one and after her, he also did not have anyone near him.


    She had watched him grow up and had never seen him near any woman. Parents were the ones who tried to keep their kids away from rtionships but Kieran was a different case. She was always trying to get him to make friends or be in a rtionship.


    ¡°He said it today while we were out,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Hold on, let me process my thoughts¡± Everly stood her feet and began to pace the entire floor of the room. ¡°Kieran?¡± she asked again before standing still and facing Arabe.


    ¡°I mean I should be happy that he is getting into a rtionship or that he wants to get into a rtionship¡± she said crossing her hands over her chest. ¡°But my mind can¡¯t seem toprehend it¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why he asked me but he had said something about being interested in me for a while now¡±


    ¡°Oh wow this is big news and thank you so much for sharing this with me¡± Everly stepped forward and took Arabe¡¯s hand in hers.


    She did not need to tell her about her business but she did it anyway because she wanted to. ¡°I just had no one to talk to,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Well, do you want me to advise you?¡± Everly asked. She knew the girl had confided in her but what if she did not need advice but just listening ears?


    ¡°Yes please,¡± Arabe said. ¡°I don¡¯t know him so any advice you can give would be very useful¡±


    ¡°Okay let¡¯s see¡± Everly pped her hands together and sat beside her. ¡°I guess my words might not be trusted because I am his mother and you would think I am supposed to hoot his horn¡±


    ¡°Can you please just tell me truthfully?¡±


    ¡°Well yes, let¡¯s see,¡± Everly said with a deep breath as she leaned into the bed. ¡°He has always been so cold it is always difficult to prate him but once you have him then you have got yourself one of the best¡±


    ¡°But do you think his interest is based on a kind of affection for me or just pure curiosity?¡± Arabe needed to know.


    She was just getting off the situation with Mark so getting into something simr would be bad for him.


    ¡°Well, I can¡¯t tell since I had not taken out time to notice that¡± Everly said picking on the corner of her mouth. ¡°But I am sure he would not say what he does not mean¡±


    ¡°What can I do?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°I want to say you should go for it because I know you would be a good girlfriend for my son but I am not sure if he would be good for you, so instead I am going to tell you to follow your heart¡±


    ¡°Follow my heart?¡±


    ¡°Yeah follow your heart, I am sure it¡¯s saying something and if it isn¡¯t yet then maybe you need to listen just a little bit more¡± Everly said.


    Arabe wanted to say something but she decided against it. ¡°I know I should not say this because it would put a lot of pressure on you but I would be d if you became my son¡¯s girlfriend but I won¡¯t be mad at you if you don¡¯t¡± Everly said.


    ¡°I guess I have to think about it for a few more days¡± Arabe responded and Everly nodded.


    ¡°But what about Mark?¡± Everly asked.


    Arabe let out a sigh and exined what Mark had done. She exined the entire situation and how it led to Kieran getting to ask her out.


    ¡°What? Oh my god, he is such a red g¡± Everly let out with disgust in her voice.


    ¡°I¡¯m pissed but I am also d I got to know before the rtionship went further than it is,¡± Arabe said. Everly nodded in agreement. If Arabe had be his girlfriend then it would have been a lot worse for her to detach herself from him.


    ¡°I am d you were able to get out of the rtionship before it got any deeper¡± Everly said rubbing her back gently.


    ¡°Don¡¯t allow what he has done get to you, you are much more valuable than he wanted to treat you¡±  Everly assured her.


    ¡°Thank you, I am so d I had this talk with you¡±


    ¡°Me too, I am so d you have the confidence to confide in me¡± Everly said rubbing her shoulders and giving her a side hug.


    Arabe and Everly spent the next three hours talking randomly about the things she was going to experience at the state when she got there. They talked about a lot more than the culture shock and everything else before they decided to call it a night.


    Everly pushed herself into the room and stood up the door. Ethan was sitting on the bed waiting for her. Since the fight between them, they had barely spoken a word to each other when they were all alone.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Are you leaving tomorrow?¡± Ethan said and Everly nodded and made an approval sound.


    ¡°Is it because of me?¡± he asked and she was tempted to make him feel alright about the situation but she knew she did not have to do that.


    She was not leaving because of him but his actions prompted her and made her realize that she might need a break after all.


    ¡°Your actions pushed me to n this trip but I am d that I did¡±


    ¡°I just want to say that I am deeply sorry, I know nothing can justify my actions so I have no excuses¡± he said tapping the bed and turning to face her.


    ¡°I have forgiven you but I think the break would do us a great deal. During this time you should think about if you want us to remain together¡± she told him.


    He wanted to open his mouth to protest but decided against it. He knew she was right. Shed had every right to react the way she did, in all reality she was even more calm than anyone would have expected.


    ¡°I am not saying we should break off now or go for a divorce but a little break would do us good¡±


    ¡°Okay let¡¯s take a little break¡±

 LXXIV

    Everly took off early and asked no one to see her off as she went to the airport for her trip. Arabe left as soon as Everly left, she was not going to ride with Kieran until she was sure what answer she wanted to give him. She did not want to have to go through the awkwardness of the day.


    Since she was a bit early she decided to take coffee in the coffee shop close to the office building. Her phone rang while she gently sipped on her coffee while waiting for the working hours to start.


    ¡°I feel like you have news for me,¡± Seraphina said as soon as the call connected.


    ¡°Well hello to you too, I am fine thank you so much for asking, I am just currently taking coffee while waiting for the long tortuous day to begin¡± Arabe said with an eye roll.


    ¡°I know all that without having to see or ask you¡± Seraphina said.


    ¡°Where are you?¡±


    ¡°Just getting off work, I have been so busy with the new group that is going to debut next month and it¡¯s been hell trying to make the interns do their job¡± Seraphina whined.


    ¡°Did you work overtime again?¡± Arabe asked concerned about her sister.


    ¡°I always work overtime even though I don¡¯t see the need to, I am just worried that the first project I handle might fall through¡± Seraphina let her sister understand her worry.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you have always done fine that¡¯s why you were put in charge of this group, I am sure you would do absolutely well¡± Arabe said trying to encourage her sister.


    ¡°I hope so¡± she said letting out a long sigh. She was worried since she had just been promoted to team leader and this was her first time handling a debuting group all by herself. If she had to give herself a scale of rating she was sure she would do very low because everything seemed to not be falling into ce one bit.


    ¡°So what¡¯s new?¡± Seraphina asked. ¡°I need some news to distract myself from the realities of my world while I wait for the bus¡±


    ¡°I did not want to tell you this yet but I guess it does not matter when I tell you as long as you get to know,¡± Arabe said.


    Seraphina felt herself sitting at the edge of her seat ready to take in all the information her sister might have for her. She let out a small snort that let Arabe know she was ready to receive the news.


    ¡°For starters, Mark is married¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Seraphina screamed altering the attention of the people at the bus stop with her. She murmured an apology to them before standing up and walking a few steps away from them.


    ¡°Well, I got to know he was married and I don¡¯t know why he approached me. before you go on full big sister mode, I have forgiven him and forgotten about him so I hope he does the same as well¡± she said.


    Seraphina tried to steady herself. ¡°What else?¡± she asked trying to get all the gossip she could get before her final reaction.


    ¡°How do you know there is more?¡±


    ¡°You used the word for starters¡±


    ¡°Oh that¡¯s true, you know me too well¡± Arabe rolled her eyes and paused for a moment before letting out.


    ¡°Kieran asked me out¡±


    ¡°Kieran? The same Kieran?¡± Seraphina let out a squeal, she was unable to control her expression and joy. ¡°How did it happen? Tell me every single detail¡± Seraphina squealed once more attracting the attention of everyone around them.


    She was the least bothered about them and just wanted to know how her sister went from one man doing her dirty to another being at her beck and call.


    ¡°I must say it seems like changing states did you good¡± Seraphina said without letting her sister say anything.


    ¡°What do you mean did me good?¡±


    ¡°I mean, while you were it seemed like you always lived an invisible life but all of a sudden a few months after staying away from home you have had two suitors and remarkable men at that¡±


    ¡°Mark was a married man¡± Arabe chipped in.


    ¡°Screw Mark, he is not the one I am talking about¡± Seraphina said and Arabe let out augh. She knew that she would not have let Mark live it down if she did not have other news to cover up the effect of the Mark situation.


    ¡°I want to know everything, do not leave out a single detail,¡± Seraphina said eagerly.


    Arabe exined everything to Seraphina and she kept letting out asional squeals or funny noises to show her happiness for her sister.


    ¡°So what did you say?¡± Seraphina asked when the storytelling came to an end.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°I am yet to give him a response yet¡± Arabe confessed.


    ¡°But you are going to say yes right?¡±


    ¡°I am not sure yet, I am still thinking about it¡±


    ¡°Stop all the thinking and go ept it now¡± Seraphina said like it was a final order and she had to follow the orders.


    ¡°What?¡± Arabe was confused.


    ¡°It does not have to work out the way you want it but this is a good opportunity for you to date and be free. If it ends up with you two breaking up you can always leave his house and live a new life but if you don¡¯t ept this you might have regret for the rest of your life¡±


    Seraphina¡¯s words were too harsh but they were true. She should be least bothered about how much affection they had for each other and if it wouldst as long as she wanted but she should just give it a go and see how far it would go. She did not n for the rtionship so having it might be a plus for her.


    ¡°I know I am wise, but get off the phone and go to him immediately¡± Seraphina¡¯s voice cut off her wandering mind.


    ¡°Sera, I love you, thank you, bye¡±


    ¡°Bye kiddo¡± Seraphina said cutting off the call.


    Arabe began to st Kieran¡¯s phone with calls as she began to walk towards the building, she saw his car drive down into the parking lot. She ran towards his car and stood in front of it breathless as she waited for him to get off.


    ¡°What is it?¡± he asked with widened eyes as he stood before her.


    ¡°Why did you not get your calls?¡± she asked.


    He pulled his phone out of his pocket and checked it. ¡°Oh it was on silent¡± he said and she nodded.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I would give you my answer now¡± he breathed out still trying to get her breath.


    ¡°Your answer?¡±


    ¡°Yes, my answer is yes¡±

 LXXV

    What?¡± Kieran stood in awe as he watched her bend to her knees to catch her breath. ¡± Answer to what?¡± he asked.


    She took a deep breath and stood up straight looking him straight in the eyes. ¡± My answer to your question is yes¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡± he asked shocked. If he was being honest he expected her to turn him down but here she was epting him.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she said as if she was reassuring him.


    ¡°What made you change your mind?¡±


    ¡°Change my mind?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Yeah, I was definitely sure you were going to turn me down¡±


    ¡°Why were you so sure?¡± she asked him and he pretended to think stroking his chin gently.


    ¡°For starters, you ran away from mest night and this morning you were quick to leave the house so we didn¡¯t get to meet each other. I was even going to apologize¡± he said.


    She looked at him, his ims were right from all he had said. She did run away and she was tending to reject him even though she imed she was only thinking about it. In reality, thinking that she might be hurt she was going to y it safe.


    ¡°I mean I would have understood but I did not want the friendship we had begun to build to crumble because of my stupid mistake. I could have waited till you healed properly from the hurt you face but instead, I went ahead and asked you out on the same night that you faced a weird kind of rejection¡±


    Kieran rambled, she had never seen him like that before, he seemed so flustered that she thought it was cute. She had never seen him like this before, he was always prim and proper but this time it seemed like she had opened a dimension of him not known to anyone.


    She blocked out the rest of what he was saying and took a step closer to him. On the tip of her toes with a stretch, she used her palm to cover up his mouth. His eyes widened as he gulped when her hand came close to him.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°You are rambling,¡± she said silently.


    ¡°What?¡± he asked trying to stop his voice from shaking. He failed because she could tell and then she let out a small chuckle.


    ¡°Did you justugh?¡± he asked taking a step back.


    ¡°You are cute¡± she said also taking a step back. The proximity was kind of suffocating for her.


    ¡°I am cute? Are you sure you got the right person?¡± he asked wondering where she got such a conclusion from.


    ¡°I mean your rambling is cute, and there should be no back and forth about it. I don¡¯t know what this rtionship holds and I have no single idea how it will end. All I know is that for this time in my life, this is what I want¡± she said.


    She saw a smile climb the corner of his lips and how hard he tried to suppress it. They stood in silence before she cleared her throat and looked around.


    ¡°I just wanted you to know,¡± she said before turning around and walking away as fast as she could before he could say anything.


    ¡°Oh my goodness¡±


    Kieran stood there watching her walk away. He could not believe that his single act of courage to try had resulted well this way. He had stayed awake all night worrying about what she was going to say and then when he had tried to catch her in the morning to maybe retract what he had said she had been nowhere to be found.


    Ryder¡¯s car came in and Aurora was in the passenger seat. Up until now, Aurora had been avoiding him since theirst fall out and he knew he had to speak with her and straighten it out.


    He wanted to make sure she was not holding onto a piece of hope that would make them end up together. He had never had any interest in her. He had been beside her at first because of Kimberly and after she brutally left his life Ryder was like the glue that bonded the two of them together.


    Otherwise, he had never thought of anything higher than friendships between them. Since he was with Arabe now he knew he had to straighten everything out. He was going to stand his ground and not allow Aurora to bully Arabe as she had done with other female staff who had been forced to leave by her.


    ¡°Hey man,¡± Ryder said when he saw him standing outside the car waiting for them.


    ¡°Hey,¡± Kieran replied absentmindedly. ¡°Can we talk?¡± he said facing Aurora.


    She stopped in her tracks and turned so she could face him. ¡°Me?¡± she asked. Her tone was petty so it was obvious she was mad at him.


    She had been giving him the silent treatment all this while but it seemed like it had backfired on her. ¡°What¡¯d this about?¡± she pushed when he said nothing.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk¡± he motioned to his car. She gave a lowugh to herself and walked gently to the car waiting for him to unlock it.


    ¡°See you inside¡± Kieran said tapping Ryder¡¯s shoulder before jogging away to the car.


    ¡°What¡¯s this about?¡± Aurora asked as soon as he got into the car.


    ¡°This is the final answer for you¡±


    ¡°The final answer?¡± Aurora was confused. They had not talked in a while and the proper order should be for him to apologise for what he had done and then ask her to be his girlfriend.


    ¡°Yeah, I am now convinced even more than ever that I am not in any way interested or attracted to you and I want you to respect that¡± Kieran¡¯s face was void of emotion while Aurora watched him wondering how and why he could say that with a straight face.


    ¡°Why are you telling me this?¡± she forced out.


    ¡°Because now I have a girlfriend and I don¡¯t want her to have a wrong idea¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s that girl right?¡±


    ¡°What girl?¡±


    ¡°Arabe, it¡¯s her right?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡±


    ¡°But you just met her¡­¡±


    ¡°That does not matter. I would not sit still if you trouble her and also please avoid putting me in situations that would make me alone with you¡± he said.


    He leaned into her seat and pushed open the door. ¡°You can get down now¡±

 LXXVI

    Kieran watched Aurora get down, he gave her a little time so she could get to the office before he got down from the car and walked into the office. As he walked through the office he could not get his off Arabe as he walked to his office.


    ¡°This is kind of weird but Kieran keeps staring at you¡± Chole whispered into Arabe¡¯s ears.


    ¡°Uhh?¡± Arabe asked her eyes going up to see Kieran staring so ntly at her. She bent down so her eyes did not make contact with his.


    ¡°What¡¯s that about?¡± Chole continued in a whisper.


    ¡°What¡¯s what about?¡± Arabe asked keeping her eyes down.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know it¡¯s weird, why is he staring at you so very loving?¡± she asked not giving up. She had to know why her boss was staring at a worker that way.


    ¡°What do you mean lovingly? I am sure you are mistaken¡± Arabe said dismissively.


    She wondered why Kieran did that, it was like he was begging to be caught by everyone there. She did not want anyone to know that she was in a romantic rtionship with him. She was uninterested in attracting unneeded attention on her.


    ¡°I am going to get a cup of coffee¡± she announced to Chole when Kieran had sessfully made it to his office. Today of all days his ss was clear and the blinds he usually used to keep the stares out were gone.


    Arabe gave him a quick judgy look as she went into the kitchte to make sure he knew she was not pleased with him. She took out her phone and tapped on it to send him a message.


    ¡®Are you dying to get caught?¡¯ she asked and saw him typing already.


    ¡®What do you mean?¡¯ she scoffed. Was he trying to act dumb? Did he not catch himself staring at her?


    ¡®You were staring, even Chole caught on¡¯ she typed back.


    ¡®Are we keeping this a secret?¡¯ he asked and she gasped at the phone. Did she need to spell it out for him? Even if they were going to tell people then they should at least let the rtionship mature. They had only been in it for barely an hour do their coworkers need to know?


    ¡®OF COURSE¡¯


    ¡®Oops¡¯


    She face palmed as she stared at her phone screen. ¡®What do you mean by oops?¡¯ she asked hoping that it was oops he had just realized what she was trying to tell him.


    ¡®I identally told Aurora¡¯


    ¡®But I am sure that she won¡¯t tell anyone¡¯ he added quickly.


    Arabe wanted to scream out loud in the air to let out her frustration. She thought he was supposed to be smart but it seemed like his smarts were not smart enough.


    ¡®Are you still there?¡¯ her phone chimed with a text from him.


    Of all the people who he could tell first, it had to be Aurora who was seriously against her. She had been quiet in recent times but she was sure that this new piece of information she had would unleash a new dimension of her pettiness soon.


    ¡®Let¡¯s see after work¡¯ she typed and took out her coffee so she did not raise suspicion for staying too long in the kitchte.


    As she stepped out of the room she prepared herself to be terrorised by Aurora, Maybe she deserved it for walking willingly into the lion¡¯s den.


    Kieran could not wait for the day to be over. He knew that today was going to be his first date with Arabe and he could barely sit still. He nced at the click multiple times and could barely get any work done.


    He had wished to have lunch with her but could not because he had an important lunch with their investors and had to go out to eat without her. She had made it clear that she did not want to let others in the office that they were dating so there was no way he would have asked her to lunch without seeming suspicious to everyone around.


    ¡®Do you want to have dinner together?¡¯ he typed to his phone and looked up to see her reaction when she read the message.


    Arabe nced at the message and dropped the phone to the table without sending a response. Her lips were in a straight line as she continued working on whatever it was that she did.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡®Do you want me to pick you up? I will wait in the parking lot till everyone has gone.¡¯ he typed again and waited for a response. The same train of actions happened again and he was tempted to go out and ask her why she was ignoring his messages.


    He took a deep breath and sent another message. ¡®Are you angry by any chance?¡¯ She did the same thing but this time she picked up the phone and typed her response to him.


    His phone chimed and he happily opened the message to see ¡®Yes¡¯


    Yes, to what? he wondered. What did she want to say yes to? To the dinner request? To the request of waiting in the parking lot for her? Or To the angry message.


    ¡®To all the requests¡¯ she added as if she was reading his mind. He looked up and saw the cutest frown on her face.


    ¡®What did I do?¡¯ he asked and she responded almost immediately.


    ¡®We are at work, let¡¯s talkter¡¯


    And just like that she ended the conversation. He wanted to talk more but the expression on her face a few feet away was not encouraging at all.


    He watched as Aurora came out to give orders to her and how she went on to carry them out without uttering a single word ofint.


    The end of the day came so quickly and now Kieran was pretending to work so he did not have to go with every other person.


    ¡°Are you working overtime?¡± Chole asked as she stretched out.


    ¡°No, but I want to finish this up before I go¡± she said waving the document in front of her.


    ¡°Okay, I guess you and Kieran can close up,¡± Chole said.


    Arabe¡¯s eyes darted andnded on Kieran. She shrugged and mouthed a maybe. She knew the man was not working. He had not been working at all and just pretended when the end of the day drew close.


    Everyone muttered goodbyes before they left. Arabe made sure there was ample time for everyone to be away from the vicinity before she went down to the parking lot to wait for him.

 LXXVII

    Arabe waited a minute before she saw Kieraning towards her. He opened the car and she got in and locked the door before he could do it for her.


    ¡°You are angry, Why?¡± he asked as he closed his door.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± she said sulking. She had thought it over and the reason she was angry at him was not viable enough.


    ¡°What is it?¡± he asked turning to her. He hated how he felt since she was sulking. He felt like he had done a lot of trouble and it was only his first day of dating her.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, let¡¯s just go¡± she said giving him a forced smile.


    ¡°How can we just go? We would not have a good time if we just went and I would be uneasy thinking about what I did wrong¡± he said tapping the steering wheel gently. ¡°We are not leaving this ce until I hear the reason you are angry with me¡±


    ¡°Is it because I discussed it with Aurora without first asking you?¡± he asked trying to run down the activities of the day in his head to see what wrong he might have done.


    ¡°No¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to think I just did it, I only did that so she does not bully you anymore, I know how much of a bully she can be and I don¡¯t want her troubling you so I just spoke with her and the truth came out¡± he exined.


    Arabe could not lie she was touched by his gesture. He had thought that far and even gone the extra mile to achieve his goal. She wanted to say thank you but remembered that she was still sulking. ¡°I already said it¡¯s not¡± she let out crossing her hand over her chest.


    ¡°Then what is it?¡± he asked and the car fell silent. ¡°Can you please tell me? I feel uneasy¡±


    ¡°Fine,¡± she said biting the inside of her mouth. ¡°I guess the reason is stupid¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Just tell me, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s stupid,¡± he told her touching her hand gently. It was as though he was afraid to touch her so his touch lingered only for a second before he recoiled his hand.


    ¡°I just thought we would have lunch together but it turned out that way¡±


    ¡°That was beyond my control but I guess I should have exined and apologized¡±


    His response made her feel all the worse, why did she have to bring it up? She should have just let it go and acted like a big girl.


    ¡°I should not have brought it up¡± Arabe said trying to dismiss it.


    ¡°I am sorry,¡± he said reaching for her hand again. This time the touch was longer.


    ¡°I am also sorry, I don¡¯t know why I was sulking¡± she confessed. ¡°I guess this new feeling is overwhelming¡± she added.


    ¡°I understand, I feel the same¡± he said reassuring her as his fingers made circr motions on the back of her hand.


    ¡°Can we go now?¡± he asked and she nodded.


    ¡°Next time, tell me straight away and I will fix it¡± he said taking her hand up and leaving a small kiss on the back.


    ¡°I will¡±


    ¡°Do you have anywhere in mind?¡± Kieran asked Arabe as they drove out. Now that she was no longer sulking she was radiating happiness with the smile on her face.


    ¡°I know nowhere in this city¡± she said shaking her head. ¡°Anywhere would be just fine¡±


    ¡°Okay then I would pick it,¡± he said tapping into the GPS and then allowing it to lead them. ¡°Want some music?¡± he asked when the silence became too much.


    ¡°We could talk instead..¡± she trailed off.


    ¡°About what?¡± she shook her head forck of ideas.


    ¡°I want to talk with you but I don¡¯t want it to be forced¡± he said and it made sense to her. She would also prefer it if all the conversations they had were not born out of the need to talk but because they wanted to share with each other.


    ¡°Music it is then,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Connect your phone then¡± Kieran said setting it up for her as he tried to keep his eyes on the road.


    ¡°Eyes on the road, I can do that¡± she said tapping his hands away. She connected sessfully before she began to shuffle through all her music to find a perfect one for the mood.


    She was an emotional and romantic girly so everything on her ylist was the same mood.¡±This should do¡± she said finally when she got something that did not move her to tears.


    They got to the restaurant and had a good meal. ¡°I must confess the meals here are really good,¡± Arabe said as they walked back to the car.


    ¡°They are¡± Kieran nodded in agreement. They were so close that their hands were almost in contact. He was so tempted that he wanted to slip his hands into hers and hold it tightly but did not want to creep her out or seem forward.


    ¡°You know usually when people go for dates the man holds the woman¡¯s hands like he has no intention of letting go¡± Arabe blurted.


    Kieran gave her a strange look as she tried to look ahead and not at him. ¡°I did not want to creep you out¡± he said and she gave him a puzzled expression.


    ¡°Creep me out? I thought we were dating¡± she asked and he nodded. ¡°We are¡± he mouthed slipping his hands through hers.


    ¡°I think I have the perfect idea¡± she let out as he helped her into the car. He closed the door and rounded the car to the driver¡¯s seat.


    He got in and bent over to help her with her seatbelt. She felt her breath hitch in her throat as his cologne filled her nose.


    ¡°What¡¯s your idea?¡± his voice broke off her thoughts and she looked at him blinking multiple times.


    ¡°What?¡± she let out.


    ¡°You said you had an idea¡± he reminded her.


    ¡°Oh yeah, my idea, since you are from here and you seem to know a lot of great restaurants. Let¡¯s have a date every day and you get to take me to eat in every great restaurant here¡± she said gleefully.


    ¡°I would even take you to the restaurant out of the city,¡± he said with a wink before putting on his seat belt and then starting the car.


    Arabe was tempted to tell him how hot and sexy she found what he just did but she decided against it. The rest of the car ride back home was filled with asional small talk from both of them.

 LXXVIII

    ¡°We are home¡± Kieran announced the obvious. Arabe looked around if she was honest she did not want to leave the car but they had to. Ethan was probably wondering where they were since Everly was not home yet.


    Arabe made a mental note to call Everly since she would just be getting to her destination. She had not bothered reaching out to her since she knew that there would be no way the call would go through.


    ¡°See you tomorrow?¡± Arabe let out with a forced voice her hands on the handle ready to get out of the car. She had no idea what to do so she was just going to awkwardly get out of the car.


    ¡°Is that it?¡± Kieran asked holding her hand before she could flee.


    ¡°Is there anything else?¡± she asked picking each word gently.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡± Kieran¡¯s voice became low and his hands gently lifted from against her skin. The warmth his hands brought was now lost.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t know then we will see each other tomorrow morning¡±


    ¡°You would be going with me right?¡± he asked.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Of course¡± she nodded. He smiled to himself trying to suppress the joy bursting through his veins.


    She leaned into him and nted a quick kiss on his cheeks before opening the door and walking briskly away. Kieran sat in the car with his eyes widened. He watched her flee into the house till he could not see her again.


    His hands subconsciously went to the part of his face she had just kissed and a smile climbed his face. He sat in the car thinking about the day¡¯s event and how lucky he was to have asked. Maybe he would still have been trying to figure out his emotions and feelings and might have missed the opportunity to be in the rtionship.


    He parked the car and entered the house. Unlike the usual warmth his mother gave the house, the house was dry and dark and no one came out to greet him at the door. No matter howte he came back she was always awake and with a smile asking him about his day and if he had eaten. She was always prepared to make dinner for him if needed.


    He walked gently to his room, freshened up and sat on his bed ready to call it a night. He knew he needed to check up on his mom before he slept.


    ¡°To think my own child is not concerned about me, Arabe called me before you did,¡± Everly said as soon as the call connected.


    Kieran rolled his eyes to himself, one thing about his mom that he had forgotten was that she was always overly dramatic. Maybe the good parts of her drowned out the other parts one would consider annoying.


    ¡°How was the trip?¡± he asked ignoring her statement.


    ¡°Majorly stressful but I made a new friend¡± Kieran knew that was more like his mom, she was always so cheerful and willing to make new friends wherever she went.


    ¡°That¡¯s good¡±


    ¡°You sound awfully happy, did something good happen?¡± she asked.


    ¡°You would know in due time¡±


    Everly chatted a bit with her son before she cut off the call. She was with Ava when both calls came in.


    ¡°Both kids sounded so happy today, I wonder if something good happened¡± Avamented.


    Everly was d that she was not the only one who caught that. ¡°I see you noticed as well¡± Everly said and Ava nodded.


    ¡°I hope Arabe hasn¡¯t been that much of a trouble. I know how stressful of a child she is¡± Ava asked.


    ¡°Of course not, she has been an absolute darling,¡± Everly said. She contemted whether to tell Ava of her suspicions as to why their kids were happy.


    When she spoke with Arabe she had a glistening look in her eyes as she spoke about Kieran. It was one that Everly knew too well, she saw it in herself when she was younger and madly in love with Ethan. When everything was rosy and beautiful it seemed like love could conquer it all.


    ¡°That look says a lot so spill¡± Ava said when she noticed that Everly had abandoned her tea and resulted in stroking her chin so fondly.


    ¡°You still know me so well,¡± Everly said and Ava nodded.


    ¡°I remember everything about you because I have that much free time to keep thinking about it,¡± Ava said sarcastically. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°I hope you don¡¯t get mad¡±


    ¡°What is it about?¡± Ava¡¯s interest was piqued now. She wondered what it was that put Everly on edge. Everly did not know how Ava would react to the news of the possibility of their children bing a couple.


    ¡°What do you think of your daughter dating my son?¡± Everly asked.


    ¡°Your son? Isn¡¯t he like ten years older than Arabe?¡± Ava asked.


    ¡°He is¡± Everly said taking into consideration the big age gap.


    ¡°I mean I don¡¯t know, it has to do with what Arabe wants¡± Ava did not know if the idea sat well with her but for what it was worth she wanted to be supportive of her daughter and her choices.


    ¡°Arabe told me that Kieran asked her out and judging by their happy voices it seems like they have epted each other¡± Everly let Ava in of her suspicions.


    ¡°Do you think so?¡± Ava asked in shock. Her daughter had not told her any of this yet so it was quite surprising to her.


    ¡°Yeah, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°I guess it all depends on Arabe doesn¡¯t it?¡± Ava tried to sound as cool with it as possible but was not sure Everly was buying it.


    ¡°Let¡¯s leave the kids to do their thing then¡±

 LXXIX

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Kieran asked standing at the kitchen door frame to see Arabe going back and forth in the kitchen.


    ¡°Errm Good morning¡± she said turning to face him.


    ¡°Good morning¡± he walked into the kitchen awkwardly.


    ¡°I am trying to make breakfast for us but it does not seem to be going well¡± Arabe said letting out a little chuckle.


    ¡°Here let me help,¡± Kieran said stepping forward.


    ¡°Can you cook?¡± Arabe asked confused as he took over the bowl from her hand.


    ¡°Of course¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s one thing I am bad at. I can¡¯t cook to save my life¡± she said withughter as she popped a berry in her mouth.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to be good at it since I am already good¡±


    She did not understand the corrtion between her cooking skills and his. If he was good then shouldn¡¯t she learn as well? Maybe she would be able to prepare a proper meal for herself in the future.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± she asked voicing her thoughts.


    ¡°I will cook for you any day you don¡¯t need to lift a finger¡± he said without missing a heartbeat.


    She was taken aback by his words. She searched his face and it was too serious to have let out that statement. One should only say things like that if they want to propose their love for the other.


    ¡°What are you saying?¡± she tried to steady her voice as she felt the butterflies in her stomach flutter their wings and start a war.


    ¡°I am saying you don¡¯t have to be good at cooking, I will do all the cooking¡± he said again. His face was not tallying with what he was saying and she was tempted to think he was only saying it in a joking manner.


    The little she knew about him made her know that he never said what he did not mean. She gulped down the knot in her throat as she pushed herself off the counter she had rested her back on earlier.


    ¡°Why would you cook for me?¡± she asked trying to carry on the conversation.


    ¡°Because you are my girlfriend¡± She wished he would borate and not give short answers that could mean anything.


    ¡°I know I am living here for now but I will be moving out soon¡± Arabe let out.


    She had been considering it for a while even though she had not put in any work to see it to the end but it was still something she wanted to work towards.


    Kieran¡¯s hand stopped midway mixing the pancake mix in the bowl. He turned to her with a confused expression on his face.


    ¡°You are thinking of moving out?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡±


    ¡°But¡­ But¡­ But we just started dating¡± he said forcing himself to say. He wanted to act nonchnt about the situation even though his heart was literally beating out of his chest.


    ¡°That¡¯s the reason why I need to do so¡± she said hoping he would reason with her.


    ¡°So you are moving out because we are dating?¡±


    ¡°Not because we are dating, I¡¯m just saying it would be a good reason to¡± she rified. She had been considering it even before they became a thing.


    ¡°Then why?¡± Kieran felt his jaw tense up. Of all the things to discuss with her he had not considered the possibility of thising up.


    ¡°I just wanted to move out to be out of you and your family¡¯s hair¡± she confessed. There was a point when she felt ufortable because of everything that went on in the house.


    ¡°Out of our hair? Did anyone say anything?¡±


    ¡°No it¡¯s quite the contrary, everyone was weing in their own way, I just felt bad for mooching off you and your family¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind¡± he shrugged going back to his pancake mix.


    ¡°But now that we are dating I would be looking into apartment choices. At least the ones I can afford¡±


    ¡°Wait are you serious?¡± he was confused. He thought that telling her that he was fine with it all solved the moving-out issue.


    ¡°Yeah, I mean it would be quite awkward if we are dating and your parents know about it and we are still living together¡± She shuddered as she spoke.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind, that way we can spend more time together and not be worried about having to be apart¡±


    Arabe raised her eyebrow in confusion. Those words were not something she expected from his mouth and he had been shocking her all day. She mustered her courage and stepped closer to him.


    She saw him gulp as his eyes widened, she could not tell the reason his eyes opened so much whether it was in confusion or shock. She stretched her hand and felt the temperature on his forehead.


    ¡°You seem fine¡± she murmured to herself.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I thought there was something wrong¡± she said looking up into his eyes. The pool of green drew her in. She had to admit he had pretty eyes she had never had the chance to look at it this up close. ¡°You have pretty eyes¡± she blurted before pressing her lips together to stop herself from saying more.


    ¡°I do¡± he said taking her pressed hand against his forehead. She could not believe how proud he was being at that time. He took her hand to his mouth and nted a short kiss on it catching her off guard.


    ¡°What¡¯s that for?¡± she said wiggling her hand from his grip.


    ¡°Do I have to have a reason to show affection?¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Yeah, you need to return to the Kieran I know, I don¡¯t know you¡± she said causing a yful smile to dance on his lips.


    ¡°I can show you more where that came from¡± he replied. She saw the look in his eyes and took her hand away to herself.


    ¡°Can we just focus on breakfast?¡± she asked pointing to the bowl.


    ¡°I would do so if you don¡¯t talk about moving out again¡± he said pointing out his pinky for a pinky swear.


    ¡°A pinky swear?¡±


    He nodded wiggling his hand waiting for her to take it. ¡°I would not talk about it for now,¡± she said taking her pinky to his.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think or talk about it again¡±

 LXXX

    They had a silent breakfast with the asional nces and blushes from each other. Ethan was so out of it that he did not notice his son and Arabe flirting right under his nose. After breakfast, Arabe and Kieran left for work.


    ¡°Thank you for the ride,¡± Arabe said as he drove down to the parking lot.


    ¡°You are wee¡± Kieran said shing her a small smile.


    ¡°See youter in the evening?¡± she said in the form of a question.


    ¡°Are we not going to get lunch together?¡± he asked. He wanted to get lunch together but he did not want to push it. She should do it because she wants to.


    ¡°If you ask me,¡± she said batting her eysh when she saw Ryder¡¯s care in and Aurora was in the passenger seat.


    ¡°Oh shoot¡± she said bending her head as much as she could so they could not see her. Aurora was aware but not Ryder at least that was what she knew.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Kieran asked looking around.


    ¡°Aurora and Ryder¡± she whispered her eyes darting around the floor of the car.


    ¡°Why are you hiding?¡± Kieran was confused. Why did she need to hide from them?


    ¡°I don¡¯t want them to see us together¡±


    ¡°Are you ashamed to be seen with me?¡± Kieran asked gasping.


    ¡°You know that¡¯s not what I meant,¡± Arabe said. She wanted to get up and have a proper conversation with him but the need to hide outweighed the need to be right.


    ¡°What did you mean?¡± Kieran asked.


    ¡°Just help me hide and I will tell youter,¡± she said.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Fine,¡± he said like he was about to throw a major tantrum. He helped her recline her seat so she could lie down. ¡°The sses are a bit tinted so they can¡¯t see in except if theye close to the ss¡± he said.


    ¡°Why did you not tell me in the first ce?¡± she asked and he shook his head with a shoulder shrug.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, you did not ask¡±


    She rolled her eyes and stayed still in the chair. They might not be able to see it except they put in extra effort but one thing she knew she had to do was try her best not to get caught.


    ¡°Are they gone?¡± she asked trying to look up to see the environment.


    ¡°I guess I should go down to say hello to them¡± Kieran suggested.


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡± she said holding his hand and stopping him from opening the door. ¡°Why don¡¯t you just pretend no one is here and you stay right here with me¡± she continued whispering.


    ¡°I should stay here¡± A yful smile danced on his lips. He was determined to tease her. ¡°Why would you miss me?¡± he asked.


    She looked up at him in awe. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I mean you don¡¯t want me to leave so it must have a hidden meaning behind it¡± he continued.


    ¡°Are they gone now?¡± she asked ignoring his teasing spree.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± he said


    ¡°They are gone now are you happy?¡± he asked.


    She shed him her teeth before rubbing her palms against her skirt. ¡°I better get to work before I amte,¡± she said.


    Kieran was not pleased that his agenda to tease was cut short. She pushed the door handle so the door was open. Kieran pulled her hand and crossed over her body to shut the door.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± she let out in squeak.


    ¡°Nothing¡± he let out.


    His face was so close to hers that it felt illegal to her. She felt his breath on her face and she loved the way his smell filled her nose.


    ¡°I have to get to work¡± she said silently when he noticed that he was not saying anything but just staring into her soul.


    ¡°Just a minute more,¡± he said.


    ¡°A minute of what?¡± she asked blinking rapidly.


    ¡°I have to go the entire day without seeing you so I have to take in more of your face than usual,¡± he said.


    Her stomach did a double back flip but he did not flinch. Did he think his statement was normal or did he just have a sweet mouth?


    ¡°That is not something one would say and keep a straight face like that,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°What did I say?¡± Kieran asked. ¡°I just said I want to see you more,¡± he said before she could answer his question.


    ¡°We have to get to work,¡± she said again. She saw his face fall and she ran her hand on his cheekbone. ¡°It¡¯s not because I don¡¯t want to see your face more but because I might get fired if I go inte¡±


    ¡°I am the boss who wants to fire you?¡± he asked. She could not lie this man jumped out of a book because it sounded like something she had read in one of her favourite books.


    ¡°You are one of the bosses¡± she said tapping his cheeks yfully.


    ¡°I still hold that much power. I can even give you an off day right here and now¡± he said.


    ¡°You can?¡± her eyes widened. She was a workaholic but she liked the idea of having a day away with him.


    ¡°Of course, I am that powerful¡± he sounded like he was bragging but she liked the sound of it.


    ¡°You should show your power then¡± she said blinking rapidly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s take the day off then¡± he said switching on the engine. He was still holding onto her hand.


    ¡°Are we going to leave just like that?¡± she asked shocked he was about to begin driving.


    ¡°I guess I should tell someone¡± he tapped on his phone with his free hand and put it on hands free mode.


    ¡°I saw your car in the lot so I thought you were in already so what¡¯s up?¡± Ryder asked immediately the call got connected.


    ¡°I came into work but I don¡¯t think I would stay, I am going on a date¡± he said looking to Arabe. She opened her mouth in shock as she stared at him.

 LXXXI

    ¡°You are going on a date? You?¡± Ryder was shocked and he was not interested in hiding that fact.


    ¡°Yeah so I am taking the day off¡±


    ¡°It all makes sense now,¡± Ryder said.


    ¡°What makes sense?¡± Kieran asked. He had not said anything confusing to him so why was he making sense of the situation?


    ¡°Aurora¡¯s tantrums,¡± Ryder said. ¡°She knows right?¡± he added.


    ¡°Yep,¡± Kieran said. He was not interested in defending himself or exining anything to Ryder. He owed no one any exnation.


    ¡°What about Arabe? Isn¡¯t she going toe into work?¡±


    ¡°She is with me¡±


    ¡°What do you mean she is with you?¡±


    ¡°I mean the person I am going on a date with is her¡± Kieran¡¯s voice did not shake or waver. It was obvious he had wanted to say this before because of the huge smile on his face. Arabe was not hiding her rtionship with him but she was not sure about letting it out of the bag so soon.


    ¡°So you are finally showing her around the city?¡± Ryder asked. His puzzled voice was obvious. He was not sure what his friend was saying but he was sure it was not what he meant.


    ¡°Showing her around the city?¡± Arabe mouthed to Kieran with an eye roll. ¡°She does not need to be shown around the city¡± she added her voice still absent but allowing her mouth to do the full work.


    ¡°She does not need to be shown around the city¡± Kieran echoed.


    ¡°So wait it¡¯s an actual date? Like a date between couples?¡± Ryder asked shocked.


    ¡°It is¡± Kieran responded nodding his head.


    ¡°I thought she was not your type?¡± Ryder asked. ¡°I thought you preferred girls within your age range and that was not nerdy? I feel she is too young for you¡±


    Kieran wished that Ryder would just keep shut. He had only confided in him when he was unsure of his feelings and at that time he had refused to acknowledge his feelings for her. He wanted it to be false because he could not believe how much his preferences had changed over time.


    Arabe threw Kieran a questioning foul look. ¡°What¡¯s that about?¡± her small voice almost came out.


    ¡°I always knew you and Aurora would not work out but I imagined you with¡­.¡±


    ¡°I have to go now, see you tomorrow¡± Kieran cut off the line before Ryder could get into details about anything.


    ¡°What does he mean?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to offend you but I feel like you would hear thister and you would still bring it up so I am going to say it now and just hope it can die down¡± Kieran said gently.


    Arabe waited for Kieran. He was the one to exin so she was not going to say anything and hoped that his matured ass coulde up with something that her young brain could understand.


    ¡°I hope your matured mind canmunicate to my young brain,¡± she said in a taunting tone.


    She could not believe that even though the age gap had been a big worry for her she just pushed it aside and just thought about her happiness while he was so concerned about it.


    ¡°Come on Ara¡±


    ¡°Exin yourself¡±


    ¡°I would exin but let¡¯s leave here before anyone sees us¡± he said.


    Arabe nodded her head and slipped her hand away from his. She folded her hand across her chest so there was no way he would be able to get to her.


    Kieran let out a sigh before he drove the car out of the parking lot. He drove for a while beforeing to a stop in front of a free parking space downtown.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk here first¡± he said taking off his seat belt and turning to face her. ¡°Look at me,¡± he said. Arabe pouted as she kept facing the rolled-up window. He had left the ignition running and the AC sting at full speed on their skins.


    ¡°Look at me¡± he said again using his hand to turn her face to him.


    As she caught a glimpse of him she almost cussed out herself. How was she so weak that just a look at him almost rendered her speechless? She was about to give in and forget all that had happened but she pushed forward with strong will.


    ¡°Let me exin,¡± he said as her eyes darted all over the ce. ¡°Yes I was wrong but I only said all those things when I was trying to make sense of my feelings and it¡¯s true that you are younger than I am but that does not mean anything¡±


    ¡°I would rather have your immature ass any day any time than have someone who is so mature and I do not feel a single thing for. My feelings are currently all over the ce but one thing I know for sure is that out of it all, I like you so very much it¡¯s weird to me because it feels like I have never felt things like this before¡± he rambled.


    Maybe it was the age but Arabe loved how honest and open he was. He did not hesitate to speak his mind and it made her feel safe. He was not contemting what to say. He just gave it his all.


    ¡°So you think I am immature?¡± she asked with a pout.


    ¡°You may be immature but I would not have it any other way¡± he said rubbing his hands on her forearm. She felt his hands leave a burning sensation on them.


    ¡°Are you still mad?¡± he asked pushing her back and forth.


    ¡°Maybe, Maybe not¡± she said darting her eyes from his lips and trying her best to remain focused.


    ¡°Come on, I am sorry¡± he said shaking her a bit. A smile threatened to break off on her lips and he knew she was no longer angry.


    ¡°I am sorry¡± he leaned in and she pushed her head back.


    ¡°What are you trying to do?¡± she asked trying to make sense of the dancing green in his eyes.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°What I have been restraining myself from doing all these days,¡± he said leaning in more.


    ¡°What?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Can I?¡±

 LXXXII

    Arabe nodded her head as she felt him draw closer to her. He spoke no words after taking the permission but she heard every single unspoken word through his eyes.


    His usual bright green eyes had darkened and for some reason, she wanted to see them more like that. They felt like they held some kind of power and she wanted to be a part of it.


    He pulled her closer and she cursed the makers of the car for putting whatever that barricade was called in between both seats because all she wanted to do was get closer to him. He ced his lips on hers.


    She felt herself kissing back with so much intensity. She had not been in many rtionships but she had experienced the kissing part of all the ones she was part of and it had been only a few seconds but she knew none of those rtionships could bepared to what she felt now.


    The car felt heated even though the air conditioner was in full st touching her skin. Her hand tried to wrap around his neck but she was too short to do so and she felt angry by that fact. Kieran felt her hands and pulled her even closer carrying her away from her chair to hisp.


    She pulled away from him breathlessly as her leg hung over the barricades between both chairs. He held her to himself as he stared into her eyes.


    ¡°What are we doing?¡± Arabe asked him.


    ¡°Kissing,¡± he said without missing a beat. She dropped her head to his chest as augh escaped her lips.


    She did not know why but both of them began tough. Theughter filled the car as she sat on hisp and her head on his chest. He held her shoulders as theugh surged through his body.


    ¡°What do you want to do?¡± he asked.


    She lifted her head and stared at his face. One of his hands fell to her waist as he took away the handful of her hair from his face. ¡°For starters, I would like to get into afortable position¡± she murmured. ¡°As much as I like this my legs hurt¡± she added.


    He nodded and freed her waist that he had been holding with one hand and helped her get back into her chair.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to an amusement park,¡± she said gleefully.


    ¡°An amusement park?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± she nodded as though her head was about to bob away from her body.


    ¡°Am I not too old to be¡­¡±


    ¡°Shush¡± she said cing her finger over his mouth. ¡°The amusement park date is a must-do¡±


    ¡°Well if you want to them I guess I can go there¡± he said with a shrug.


    Arabe felt a surge of happiness. ¡°Shall we?¡± she gestured to the car steering.


    ¡°Your wish is mymand¡±


    ¡°We are at the amusement park¡± Arabe¡¯s voice sounded like a child who was getting a wish she had at Christmas.


    ¡°Is it that fun?¡±


    ¡°Have you ever been to an amusement park?¡± she asked and he nodded his head.


    ¡°I have been here, it¡¯s just that I did not go on any of the rides¡±


    ¡°Do you have any kind of phobia I should be aware of?¡± she wanted to know before she forced him to tag along on all the rides she wanted to go on.


    ¡°No kind of phobia, I was not just feeling any of the rides¡±


    ¡°Oh, would you look at that? This old man is using thenguage of the young¡± Arabe teased running her finger across his chin.


    ¡°Shall we?¡± he asked ignoring her teasing.


    ¡°You have to go on all the rides, I insist¡± she said holding his hands and giving it a little squeeze.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°All the rides?¡±


    ¡°Okay then we can do fifty per cent of the rides since it¡¯s your first time¡± she said as if she was giving him a discount on his purchase.


    ¡°Are you suggesting wee back here?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Is that all you heard?¡± she asked him tilting her head a bit.


    ¡°I heard them all but I want to focus on what I want¡± Kieran said with a toothy smile.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go for the rides then,¡± Arabe said before turning and pushing her door open.


    They walked through the gate into the park. It was fairly empty because it was a weekday. Arabetched herself to Kieran¡¯s arm and that was the only thing he was enjoying so far about the ce.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do that first¡± she pointed to the rollercoaster ride that was high up in the sky. Kieran looked at it and gulped as he watched the ride slow down.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we start with the small rides?¡± he asked.


    ¡°You should always get the hard stuff out of the way first,¡± she said.


    ¡°But I just feel since the big rides will be more fun we should do the least fun ones first¡± he was dying to get out of the situation. How could he climb high up in the sky and let a machine he did not trust turn him over and over again.


    ¡°Wait are you afraid?¡±


    ¡°Of course not¡±


    ¡°Come on, if you are afraid then we don¡¯t have to go on those rides¡± she said but her eyes were sad.


    ¡°It¡¯s not because I am afraid, I am just worried about our safety¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, they won¡¯t let us go on if it¡¯s not safe¡± Arabe assured him.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± he sounded unsure. The situation should be reversed where he would be the one encouraging her.


    ¡°Of course¡±

 LXXXIII

    Arabe had a lot of fun but she could not tell if the same was the case for Kieran because she could barely read his face.


    ¡°What did you think of our date? Or do you think we should have something more sophisticated next time¡±


    ¡°If you consider it a date then it is a date¡± Kieran said taking her hand and intertwining it.


    As sweet as it sounded and as much as she wanted to swoon over his words she knew she had to be wiser about the situation so it did not end up bad.


    ¡°If I am the only one enjoying our date then why is it a date, I should have just taken myself out on a solo date and enjoyed myself¡± she said turning to face him.


    ¡°I am having a good time because I am with you but I am not wired for these kinds of situations but I would be d to try these new things with you¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s so sweet¡± She could not help herself, she had toment about it.


    ¡°Of course,¡± he said with a wink and sheughed.


    ¡°But if you know you are not having fun then you should let me know immediately¡±


    ¡±Same here, if I happen to take you on a boring date, you should tell me at once¡±


    ¡°Of course, I would do so,¡± she said. She was not about to let herself be miserable in her rtionship.


    ¡°That¡¯s good¡± he said running his hand on her hair. She shook under his touch. She liked the way his hands felt on her scalp.


    ¡°There are two legends at amusement parks,¡± she said out of the blue.


    ¡°Two legends?¡± Kieran¡¯s interest was piqued.


    ¡°Yeah they are like myths that everyone must do once theye to a park like this one ¡± she answered nodding as they entered the food court.


    ¡°What are they?¡±


    ¡°For starters, one is about the food court¡± Kieran looked around to see signs of anything that might resemble a myth.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see anything¡± Kieran voiced out.


    ¡°I would have to tell you before you can know what the myth is about,¡± she said, augh threatening to escape her throat.


    ¡°What is it then?¡± Kieran was eager to know what it was.


    ¡°The first one is that you must have food from the food court and if you want to be lucky in love you must have a corn dog¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°What? That¡¯s impossible¡± he said in disbelief as he dismissed what sounded like a superstition. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you believe in that?¡± he asked when he saw her face.


    ¡°I am serious,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Okay, what¡¯s the second one?¡±


    ¡°If you have corn dog here you can have a long heartwarming kiss under any bridge here¡±


    Kieran looked around and pointed to one of the bridges in sight. ¡°What do you think about eating corn dogs under that bridge?¡±


    Arabe was d he understood her request without having her say it inly. He pulled her closer and went on to order the corn dog.


    They say under a bridge as they are their corn dogs. It was just a little past eleven am and it was as if they had the entire park to themselves even though there were other couples around who were also on dates and some young people who were enjoying the rides.


    ¡°You know I already took a bit of this¡± he said waving the food in his hand in the air. ¡°I guess that should cover up for eating¡± he leaned in.


    Arabe leaned back, she wanted his cologne to fill her nose but she was embarrassed to be kissed by him in public. Not because anything was wrong with her but because she was afraid of the attention that would bring.


    ¡°You know I made those myths up right?¡± she murmured through her fingers over her mouth.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care as long as I can kiss you,¡± he said bluntly.


    ¡°I guess maturing gives you some kind of boldness,¡± she said.


    She had always dated within her age group and never had she encountered someone as confident as him. He always spoke so easily about these things. Sometimes it put her on the edge and other times it made her at ease.


    ¡°Maybe,¡± he said licking his lips. It was as though he was trying to draw her in. ¡°What about my kiss for eating corn dogs? I even ate it under the bridge¡± he said.


    She nced around and saw the people. ¡°I will give you a kiss here¡± she pointed to his cheeks.


    ¡°But that¡¯s not what the legend says¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a made-up legend¡± she had to remind him again maybe he had forgotten what she had said a few minutes ago.


    ¡°I already believed it so I can¡¯t change my mind¡± his face was serious so she knew he was being serious about it.


    ¡°I can only give you a kiss on your cheeks, people are watching and it¡¯s daytime¡± she said shyly.


    ¡°Okay then¡± he said turning her cheek properly to him. She looked around again to be sure no one was watching her. She wondered where she got the boldness to tell such a false tale, she also wondered where and how the boldness suddenly disappeared again.


    She nted a kiss on his cheeks or so she thought. She was wrong when she felt the cheeks kissing back. His lips firmly held hers as he did not let go. She did not want him to let go anyway.


    ¡°That is a heartwarming kiss,¡± he said leaving her lips after a while. She smiled to herself as her hands went up to trace her lips. He took her hands from her mouth and nted multiple kisses on them.


    ¡°How many bridges do we have?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, why do you ask?¡± she wondered why he wanted to know. She felt her cheek get hot at the thought of kissing him right under each bridge.


    ¡°I guess we shoulde here often, have corn dogs and sit under every bridge until we have got them all covered¡±


    ¡°Kieran¡± she gasped as she hit him slightly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do that,¡± he said in a tone of finality.


    ¡°That might be a good idea¡±

 LXXXIV

    ¡°What else do you want to do?¡± Kieran asked as they sat in the car.


    ¡°I get to decide again?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Of course, I want you to have the date you want¡±


    ¡°Ice cream,¡± she said with a cheerful voice


    ¡°Ice cream?¡±


    ¡°Yes, to the best ice cream ce in the city,¡± she said tapping his shoulders gently. ¡°But take the longest way there and drive very slowly¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°No reason¡±


    ¡°There is no way you have no reason for telling me all that¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± he said, biting the insides of her lips. ¡°aits because I want to spend a bit more time with you in the car¡±


    The car fell silent. Arabe could not deny it, there had been a lot of truthful and intimate moments today. She had thought that Kieran would be less affectionate and their rtionship would move at a snail¡¯s pace.


    The contrary was the case as he was the one fast-tracking the entire thing. ¡°So should we go for a drive?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I feel like I don¡¯t have to say too much, it¡¯s like you keep reading my mind¡± she said with a smile.


    ¡°You are not that hard to read, you are a simple girl¡± he said pressed his lips together and then felt the need to rify.


    ¡°And not like in a bad way but a very good way,¡± he said. She felt touched by his words so she leaned into him.


    ¡°If anyone had told me that I would be ditching work and running around town I would have called the person a big maniptor and liar. If they had told me that mypanion would be you I would have called them crazy but see me here right nowtching onto your arm like my life depends on it¡±


    She rambled because she felt the need to. ¡°Same here,¡± Kieran said.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    She felt good to hear that it was the same for them both. ¡°I mean you were that weird little girl I knew¡± he said and she frowned.


    ¡°What do you mean weird little girl¡±


    ¡°You were always little, and even now I feel like I can fit you into my pocket and carry you everywhere with me and weird because you always rather bury your nose in a book than y around with kids your age,¡± he told her.


    ¡°Should I go into your pocket then?¡± she asked teasing him. She did not want to dwell on the fact that he had called her weird. Maybe if she was seeing herself from outside she would agree with him.


    ¡°You can¡± he said tapping the pocket on his shirt. ¡°I want you right here, next to my heart¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that¡± she let out with augh. ¡°That¡¯s so cheesy¡± she added.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe I could say something like that¡± he said intertwining his fingers into hers. ¡°It seems like you are doing something to me¡±


    ¡°Why are you trying to me me?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Because it¡¯s all your fault¡± he pouted. Sheughed at his face as she rested her head on his shoulders.


    ¡°Then I guess you might as well say more cheesy things¡±


    They finally got to the ice cream ce and got their ice cream to go. The drive had taken them a while and it was already mid-afternoon by the time they got to the ice cream shop. They got into the car and continued with their drive.


    ¡°Are we going somewhere?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a drive¡±


    Arabe could not believe his words because it seemed like he had a direction since he kept ncing all around the ce.


    ¡°But you keep checking the GPS and the surroundings¡±


    ¡°I just want to make sure we are not lost¡± his tone was final as if he did not want any more questions.


    She kept to herself, they had been having a nice time and she knew it would be foolish of her to create a mountain out of a molehill. They had just started dating and she had already caused a fight twice. If she was being honest he had handled every situation with so much wisdom and grace that she had not felt vited or sad that he did so.


    Maybe that was the perk of him being older. While she was worried about all the little things he was worried about the picture and trying his best to keep everything intact.


    ¡°We might be on the road for a while so you might want to rest up¡±


    Didn¡¯t he say they were going for a drive how did he know how long they would be on the road and why should she sleep?


    ¡°If it¡¯s a drive I should enjoy the scenery¡± she blurted. She had to get to the bottom of it. She wanted to behave maturely like him but it did not seem to be working out for her.


    ¡°Yeah but you might be exhausted by the time we get to our destination¡±


    ¡°So where are we going¡± she asked blinking rapidly and acting like she had doe-like eyes.


    ¡°It¡¯s a surprise you would see as soon as we get there, so you can take a nap now¡± he suggested again.


    ¡°But you would be bored all by yourself¡± She was worried about him even though a power nap at that time would make such a difference for her since she had expended so much energy earlier in the day.


    ¡°Then just take it for a few minutes and join meter¡± he suggested. She found it suspicious that he was trying to get her asleep.


    ¡°Are you trying to kidnap me?¡± she teased and he shook his head because he knew she was ying around with him.


    ¡°I¡¯d I do kidnap you, you will be found within a short time¡± Kieran said. She gave him a question look and he nodded. ¡°You have so many people looking out for you and no I am not kidnapping you,¡± he said.


    ¡°Is it a sophisticated restaurant?¡± she asked trying to get the location out of his mouth. He shook his head and the car fell silent. She dozed off after a while and was woken up when the car was resting in a parking spot.


    ¡°We are here¡±


    ¡°Where are we?¡± she asked rubbing away the sleep from her eyes. She sat up in her chair and looked around when she gasped and turned to him.


    ¡°The international bookstore?¡±

 LXXXV

    ¡°Oh my gosh,¡± Arabe eximed with a joyful voice.


    ¡°Really?¡± she asked covering her mouth with her hand and tapping his hand excitedly.


    ¡°I knew you would like this ce,¡± he said when he saw how happy she was. She was unable to pull off the smirk from her face as she bounced happily in her seat.


    ¡°Oh my gosh, this was one of the things that made me switch cities,¡± she said.


    ¡°I am d that you like it¡±


    ¡°How can I not like it? It¡¯s books in hardcover, I can see them in different prints and covers¡± she said dreamily like she was having a great dream.


    ¡°Shall we go in?¡±


    ¡°Are we going to tour the entire ce?¡± Arabe asked.


    When she heard that there was going to be an international bookstore where all books that hands could beid on would be sold there. The ce also doubled as a library where one could rent books.


    When she heard about it she had always wanted to visit and the deciding factor for her when she got the job was the bookstore. She saw it as a chance to finally visit. She had not been able to get around to visit the ce yet because she had been busy but seeing her brought her there on their first full date together.


    ¡°I am so touched,¡± she said touching the left side of her chest.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go in,¡± he said going down. He was by the side of the car in a sh before she could get the door open.


    ¡°Ady should not get her own door¡± he said shing her teeth.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± she let out in a flusteredugh.


    ¡°Shall we?¡± he said anchoring his arm so she could drop hers over it.


    They walked in, and even though Kieran was not interested or really moved by books he could not deny how magnificent and beautiful the ce was.


    ¡°Hello, wee to the International Bookstore what can I do for you?¡± the peppydy at the front desk asked.


    ¡°We would like to visit the library and the romance bookstore,¡± Arabe said before Kieran could let out a word.


    He shrugged because it was wise for her to talk instead. He knew pretty much nothing about what her preferences for books were.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°Alright then, all you have to do is make your way through that elevator over there, for the library you are going to the fourth floor and for the romance book store you are going to the floor above that,¡± the girl said with a sweet smile.


    ¡°Okay thank you¡±


    ¡°I do hope you have a wonderful stay,¡± thedy said as they walked away.


    ¡°Romance novels?¡± Kieran asked.


    ¡°Yeah, I am a lover girl,¡± she said walking to the elevator.


    Kieran had read online that the ce was a hot dating spot but the ce was as deserted as the amusement park.


    ¡°That¡¯s strange¡± he muttered.


    ¡°What was that?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°Oh it¡¯s nothing¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s nothing?¡± she asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s just that during my research I noticed that this ce is a hot spot for dating but no one seems to be here¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a weekday¡± Arabe reminded him. His mouth formed an oh shape as if he had remembered something out of the blue.


    ¡°That is true¡± Kieran admitted. They got into the elevator and went up to the fourth floor they were directed to.


    ¡°Let¡¯s check the library first and then the bookstore maybe I would be able to find new steals to go home with¡±


    Kieran saw some kind of excitement. It was like one he had never seen before and he was d that he brought her here. At least she would always remember him as the man who took her on such a date that made her so happy.


    ¡°You can do whatever you wish to,¡± he said.


    As he pushed the ss doors and she stood inside, she stood with her eyes closed and her nostrils open to take in the smell of the books. ¡°Doesn¡¯t it just smell so heavenly?¡± she asked opening her eyes and running her eyes over and over again through the library.


    ¡°I have no idea where to start,¡± she said again.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start there¡± Kieran said pointing to what looked like a front desk.


    ¡°Hello wee to the international bookstore Library¡± Another peppy girl said.


    Arabe thought about how smart the owners or the ce were. The girls at each station somehow made the ambience better than it should have felt.


    ¡°Hello¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°How can I help you?¡±


    ¡°What services do you offer?¡±


    ¡°You can rent books to read and return them after your time pses like a normal Library. We also offer in-read services¡± the girl exined.


    Kieran looked around to see the small cubicle likepartment and he finally understood the reason why it was a hot spot for dating. The cubicle rooms had a ss covering so one could not see the insides.


    ¡°We would pick out books and read them here¡± Kieran said before Arabe could make up her mind.


    She cast him a look with her eyebrows raised in confusion. Had he not said that her wish was hismand? Why was he suddenly picking out what he wanted? He was not even a fan of books so she wondered why he was suddenly interested in reading in.


    She did not mind his suggestion as she wanted to soak in the beauty and smell of the ce for as long as possible. She was going to read in anyway.


    ¡°We have a variety of books that you can choose from. Fromic books to X-rated books. ¡± the girl said pointing in the direction of the books. ¡°We also provide a self care service where you can order any kind of meal and have it delivered on the condition that it is only eaten within thepartment provided for you¡± the girl exined.


    ¡°We understand¡± Arabe was eager to explore.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you pick a book and I would pick out our meal?¡± Kieran suggested.


    Arabe nodded her head in response and was out of his sight before he could utter a word.

 LXXXVI

    Arabe and Kieran returned home after their date. By the time they got home, it was alreadyte into the night but Ethan was neither up nor waiting for them like Everly would have done.


    ¡°Do you want to have a cup of coffee?¡± Kieran asked as they entered the house.


    ¡°Coffee? At this time?¡± she asked him.


    ¡°Oh I see, this is toote to have a cup of coffee¡± he continued realizing what he had said. It was indeed toote to have any caffeine at that time.


    ¡°Yeah, I would like to sleep tonight so I could be awake early tomorrow¡±


    ¡°If you arete I will wait for you¡± Arabe could not deny that Kieran had a sweet mouth because why did that singr statement make her stomach swirl in a fit of happiness?


    ¡°It¡¯s not about you waiting for me but about having me being early to work¡± she said trying to steady her emotions. She did not want to swoon over him.


    ¡°Okay then maybe we could have tea?¡± he suggested. He knew they werete but he did not want to let go of her yet. He wanted to stay even a minute more with her.


    ¡°Tea?¡± she asked and then shrugged. ¡°We can have just one cup¡± she said raising one finger to signify the counting.


    ¡°Okay, this way¡± his hands found a way to hers as he pulled her to the kitchen. He dragged her to one of the kitchen stools and had her sit. ¡°Stay here, let me get that tea started¡±


    Arabe thought of it and knew that if Everly was at home there would have been a pot of tea brewing ready in case anyone wanted it. ¡°I miss your mom¡± Arabe said and Kieran turned to her as he was reheating the water in the kettle.


    ¡°So do I¡± Kieran admitted. On a normal day, he would have been indifferent about admitting it but he knew that something was different, something felt different even though he could not ce what it was he knew there was just something different.


    ¡°What kind of tea do you want?¡±


    ¡°Anything¡±


    ¡°Anything?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a favourite¡± she said picking at her fingers.


    ¡°Okay then I will let you have a taste of my favourite¡± he said taking out a tea bag from the tea bag tray.


    ¡°You sound like a polished English man saying you have a favourite tea¡± Arabemented.


    ¡°I do?¡± he asked turning briefly to catch a glimpse of her face before continuing with his tea preparation.


    ¡°Yeah¡±


    ¡°And you don¡¯t like that?¡± He was confused at the emotion her voice was portraying.


    ¡°I like it¡± she said silently biting the corner of her lips.


    ¡°Hmm, you do?¡± Kieran askeding over to her with two cups in his hands. ¡°Here you go¡± he said dropping a cup in her front.


    She took the cup to her mouth and allowed the smell to fill her nose. ¡°Yeah I think it¡¯s sexy¡± she said with a wink before taking a sip.


    Kieran choked on his cup as he began to cough. ¡°What?¡± he asked dropping the cup to the ind.


    ¡°What?¡± she asked her eyes going wide like a doe.


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± Kieran asked wiping the corners of his mouth with his hand.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°I said I found you sexy¡± Arabe replied feeling bold about her statement. He had been the one making her swoon all day so she was d that from the expression on his face, she had the same effect on him.


    ¡°You should be careful of what you say¡± Kieran said taking up the cup again and taking a sip. ¡°You should only say what you mean¡± he added before taking another sip.


    ¡°I meant it¡± She shrugged wondering why he would think she said it mindlessly.


    ¡°Ara,¡± he said silently. His breath was so heavy that she could hear it. ¡°Should we go to bed?¡±


    ¡°Already?¡± she was perplexed. He was the one who wanted to extend the night and now all of a sudden he wanted to call it a night abruptly.


    ¡°I still have some tea left¡± She tapped on the corner of the ss before taking it up and taking a sip again.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to bed¡± he said moving close to her. His cup was long gone from his hand and he was trying his best to restrict himself from jumping on her.


    She had somehow opened up something within. Something he had suppressed for such a long time he was shocked it still worked.


    ¡°Okay,¡± she murmured when she saw the expression on his face. She did not understand what it meant but she knew it was not the same one she had seen all day.


    She chugged the rest of the tea and it scalded her tongue. ¡°Ouch,¡± she shouted in reflex as the cup went back to the table.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Kieran asked rushing to her. He had been a few metres away from her so the flight time was not all that much, barely in seconds.


    ¡°I scalded my tongue,¡± she said with her tongue out of her mouth.


    ¡°How did that happen?¡± he asked holding her face and turning it to the side.


    She rolled her eyes as she was not exactly happy that she had to exin the obvious to him. ¡°You caused this¡±


    ¡°I did?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, did you have to hurry me while I was drinking tea?¡± she asked crossing her hand over her chest.


    ¡°You did not have to drink the tea¡± he said wondering why she had not just left the tea in the cup and gone to bed.


    ¡°And waste the precious tea you made for me¡± she pouted and she shook her head. ¡°Never¡±


    He was taken aback by her reason. He moved from her in silence because he did not know the right way to react to what she had just said. He opened up the icepartment inside the refrigerator and took out an ice cube.


    ¡°Open your mouth¡± he said standing in front of her again.


    ¡°Ahh¡± she said opening her mouth and waiting for his action.


    ¡°Here, cool. your tongue with this¡± he said dropping the ice cube to his tongue.


    ¡°Thank you¡± she murmured with her mouth full.


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk¡± he said stopping her.

 LXXXVII

    The ice melted on her tongue before she decided to read time to get into the room and call it a night. She nced at the clock. It was just a few seconds past midnight and she felt the urge to go to bed.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to bed¡± she announced like a judge giving a verdict.


    ¡°Together?¡± he asked with a slyish smile dancing on his lips.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± she trailed off when her mind finallyprehended what he was trying to say.


    ¡°Not together but together,¡± she said. She yed back her words in her mind and discovered how stupid she sounded.


    ¡°What I mean is let¡¯s leave this ce together and go to bed separately in our beds¡± she rified. Her voice was quick and sharp as if she was begging for relief from any form of torment.


    ¡°Stop looking at me like that¡± she murmured her head down. She wondered how he had quickly turned the table so fast when she had been the one with the most power over him just a few seconds ago.


    ¡°Like how?¡± he wanted to feign ignorance. He watched her eyes go up in surprise as she tried to avoid his gaze. His hands tilted her head back so she could look at him. ¡°I want to see your face, why is that an offence?¡± he added.


    She gulped with eyes going open and shut multiple times it was hard for him to keep up. She stood up abruptly and pushed the stool that was beneath her back, it made a screeching sound on the tiles.


    ¡°I better go in now,¡± she said nervously as her eyes darted everywhere aside from his body that was now fully in her view.


    ¡°Wait for me¡± he said catching her by the arm to stop her from sprinting.


    ¡°Why?¡± she blurted.


    ¡°I need to clean up and I want to walk you to your room¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have to do what?¡± he asked tilting his head a bit. He saw her flustered face and wondered why she felt so flustered all of a sudden. He found the interaction and the expression on her face cute and wanted it tost a bit more.


    ¡°Clean up or walk you to your room?¡± he asked when she did not say anything.


    ¡°Both¡± she let out with a hup.


    ¡°Both?¡± he asked his grip tightening a bit on her hand as if he was afraid she would slip away.


    ¡°It¡¯ste and I have to get to bed or I may bete tomorrow¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we stay together all night so I can wake you early?¡± he suggested.


    She gulped as she took faltered steps a bit back. ¡°No,¡± she said.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to¡±


    ¡°Then what?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s too early¡±


    ¡°Too early for what?¡± his hands slipped from hers and he crossed his hands over his chest. ¡°I just wanted us to sleep in the same bed nothing more. It seems you have other thoughts¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by other thoughts?¡± her voice went up in annoyance that she had been wrong about his advances. She hurried up the stairs and Kieran wondered if she had been a runner because she was so fast and out of sight so soon.


    Kieran cleaned up the table and washed out what he had used. As much as he thought Arabe was cute for her reaction he did not want to weird her out. He ignored the urge within him to see her face one more time and went to bed instead.


    By the time he was up in the morning, he was sure she was still asleep because he had passed by her room and the entire ce was silent and dark.


    He went on to make breakfast before going to wake her up. He knocked on the door and waited for her. He heard a stumble through the room before the door flew open.


    For some reason Arabe was surprised. She expected it to be him but was shocked that he was actually standing there. ¡°Good morning,¡± she said before he could say anything.


    ¡°Good morning, aren¡¯t you going toe down for breakfast?¡± he asked and she nodded.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°I would be down in a jiffy¡± she said swinging the door in her hand.


    ¡°Okay,¡± he said backing up into the hallway. He stopped midway and charged towards her.


    ¡°What is¡­¡± her statement was notpleted because she felt his lips on her mouth. She felt herself kissing back. She pulled away and dropped her face to her hands.


    ¡°Why?¡± he asked trying to pry her hands away from her face. He was stronger than her but it was obvious that her will to keep her hands glued to her face was stronger than his strength.


    ¡°I¡¯m shy, I haven¡¯t washed up yet,¡± she said. It was as if the kiss opened up a portal that made her feel self conscious all of a sudden.


    ¡°But I have already seen it all¡± Kieran said still trying to pry her hands away.


    ¡°Can you step back slowly and I will be with you soon?¡± she asked.


    He nodded and walked backwards till he turned and left. She only took her hands away from her face to confirm that he had left. She hurriedly cleaned up.


    She wanted to look good so she put on a little make-up to the best of her ability. She took a double look at herself in the mirror before heading out. As she was about to get to the door her phone rang and it was a video call from her sister.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t she have chosen a better time to call?¡± Arabe grumbled. She knew that taking the call meant she had to miss breakfast with Kieran.


    ¡°Hello,¡± Arabe rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Did I just see an eye roll? Not even a sense of admiration and bewilderment for me being your sister¡± Seraphina said in a sarcastic tone.


    ¡°Are you just getting in from work?¡± Arabe asked ignoring her statement.


    ¡°Yeah¡±


    ¡°How was work?¡±


    ¡°The same old¡± Seraphina groaned.


    ¡°How many more days till theunch?¡±


    ¡°Ten and I can rest¡±


    ¡°Before you begin a new project¡± Arabe reminded her.


    ¡°Did you have to remind me?¡± she groaned rubbing her free hand across her face.


    ¡°What brings you to call me at this time? I am on my way to work¡± Arabe wanted to cut short the discussion as much as she could.


    ¡°You never told me how it went with Kieran¡±

 LXXXVIII

    ¡°What is with him?¡± Arabe asked feigning ignorance. She knew she would have been able to get out of letting out her rtionship with Kieran to her sister if it were not a video call because her face would give her away but she was willing to try how far she could push her luck.


    ¡°So why is your face about to break out into a smile? A happy one at that?¡± Seraphina narrowed her eyes. ¡°Is that make-up on your face?¡±


    ¡°Because I am so happy to see and hear from you and I thought I should try to make up now,¡± she said.


    ¡°I video call you frequently, I know you love me but it¡¯s creepy to hear you say that and I know that you are not telling the truth right now¡±


    ¡°Are you calling me a liar?¡±


    ¡°Digressing from the actual point? Making useless excuses? ¡± Seraphina raised two fingers to the camera as I¡¯d she was counting.


    ¡°What are you counting?¡±


    ¡°Points that would let me know if you are dating him already¡±


    ¡°Seraphina¡± Arabe let out in a flustered tone.


    ¡°Arabe¡± Seraphina mimicked her with a teasing smile on her lips.


    A knock on her door made her eyes divert to the door. ¡°I have to get this¡± Arabe motioned to the door with her head.


    ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°Can you hold and not let out a word?¡± Arabe asked. She did not want to get off the call because her sister would call her right back.


    ¡°Sure you can trust me¡± Seraphina made an okay sign with her hand.


    Arabe stood up and went to the door. She cleared her throat and rubbed her hand on her dress as if to clear off any crease before pulling the door to itself.


    ¡°You are taking quite a long time¡± Kieran said leaning to the door frame. His hair fell to his face and Arabe had to swallow the knot that formed in her throat to control herself.


    If her sister was not on the phone she would have pulled him through the door and kissed him senselessly.


    ¡°My sister called so we were catching up¡± Arabe said instead of all the words that were swimming in his head.


    ¡°Hello Kieran,¡± Seraphina said from the phone. Arabe wondered why she had trusted her sister. She was not one to be trusted after she had proved time and time again that she could not help one out.


    ¡°Want to say hello?¡± Arabe asked. Seraphina had already let herself out so there was no harm in them meeting and talking.


    ¡°Sure,¡± Kieran said stretching his hands for the phone, she ced the phone in his hands their hands grazing for a split second. She felt the burning sensation in her hands as she recoiled and waited for them to talk.


    Arabe could not be more jealous of Seraphina. She had always been so smooth with talking with others, she and Kieran spike like they had been old friends.


    ¡°Goodbye then¡± Kieran said handing the phone to Arabe.


    ¡°And I will talk to youter,¡± Seraphina said with a wink before cutting off the call.


    ¡°I am sorry you had to talk with my sister¡± Arabe apologized. ¡°She is like a social butterfly¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I would have had to speak with them anyways, it¡¯s good that I have gotten this out of the way¡±


    ¡°Are you going to talk to all my family members?¡±


    ¡°If I have to, I am ready to¡± Kieran said with a smug expression on his face.


    ¡°All of them? I have a reallyrge family back at home¡± Arabe teased.


    ¡°I can talk to them all¡± Kieran sounded confident.


    Arabeughed because she knew what a turmoil her entire family was. Her grandmother would be ted to hear that she had a boyfriend, the problem was her aunties and cousins, they would be having a field day teasing and giving them a hard time.


    ¡°I am not sure you want that,¡± Arabe said dismissively.


    ¡°It¡¯s not about what I want is it?¡± he asked like he was seeking some kind of validation. ¡°It¡¯s about what I have to do,¡± he said.


    She nodded her head to give him the satisfaction he seemed to want at that time. ¡°Anything that floats your boat,¡± she said.


    He cleared his throat blinking rapidly. He was bout to open his mouth to say something to clear up the silence. ¡°Let¡¯s go have breakfast,¡± Arabe said before he could say anything. She turned and went to take her bag from the bed.


    ¡°If we have breakfast now we would bete for work so you can have it on your way. I have packed it up for you¡± he said waving a bag in the air. She wondered why she had not noticed it before.


    ¡°That¡¯s so thoughtful of you¡± she was surprised by him at each interval. It was like he somehow found a way to amaze her. He was beating all of the stereotypes she had of him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go¡± he said taking her hand and leading her down. They got to the car and began to drive away. She had her breakfast as they made their way to work.


    As they got into the parking lot there was an unfamiliar car in it. They thought not much of it, they might have had a new client so they thought not much of it.


    ¡°Where have you been? Where did you keep your phone?¡± Ryder asked as they got into the office.


    ¡°Why?¡± Kieran asked trying to get into the office proper.


    ¡°Errmm, it¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s¡± Ryder stammered and he was not the kind to stammer or stutter. Kieran knew right away that something was up.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Kimberly¡±


    ¡°Kimberly?¡± Kieran let out in confusion.


    ¡°She is here¡±


    ¡°She is here?¡± Kieran echoed.


    ¡°Aurora called her¡± Ryder confessed. Aurora had told her of the n that she had. She was in touch with Kimberly as her best friend and knew that she had always regretted leaving Kieran. Now that Kieran had a girlfriend and Kimberly broke up she knew she had to make the matchmaking of the century.


    ¡°Hello¡±

 LXXXIX

    ¡°Hello there,¡± Kimberly said again. Her voice was flirty anyone could hear it from a mile away.


    Her presence forced a swarm of memories into his brain. He shook a bit by the impact that she had on him.


    Arabe looked her up and down. She was a bit shaken to see who her supposedpetition was. She had heard a bit about Kimberly from Everly. Seeing her in person was quite different from hearing bout her.


    She was gorgeous and her hair looked like she was straight from the salon. Arabe was almost tempted topliment her and fan over her beauty. She was quickly reminded that this woman was herpetition.


    Her beauty was the kind that did not need anything extra to enhance it. Arabe could not deny it she was breathtaking. She pushed ahead but was stopped by Kieran¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± his eyes searched her gently. She could see and feel the warmth of it and she was d for it.


    She was sure he was shaken up to see her because even as a girl she was shaken up by her beauty.


    ¡°To work¡± she muttered. His expression was enoughfort for her. She did not need to hear any more. She was sure her rtionship with him would not suddenly go down the drain because Kimberly appeared out of nowhere.


    ¡°I hope¡± she muttered to herself unconsciously.


    ¡°What do you hope?¡±


    ¡°Nothing,¡± she said shaking her head. She could not believe her thoughts had found a way out of her head.


    ¡°Wait, we would go to work together¡± Kieran said holding her and pulling her to his side.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Kieran asked raising his head to Kimberly.


    ¡°I am here to see you¡± she saiding closer so there was barely any space between them.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to see you or have anything to do with you either,¡± he said before pressing his lips together.


    ¡°Come on, it¡¯s been ages, I thought we could grab a cup of coffee together and I could apologize and we could be friends,¡± she said rolling a lock of her hair in her hand. ¡°Just coffee and friends¡± she added like she was making a tempting offer.


    ¡°This is work hours, if you don¡¯t work there are some of us who work¡± Kieran responded. He wanted her gone.


    ¡°But Aurora invited me to see you, after all this while I thought you might have gotten over me but I would be d if you did not¡± She took a step forward and dropped her hand on his forearm.


    He shook a bit but her hand remained on him. He let go of Arabellea¡¯s hand and she missed the warmth that came with it. He took Kimberly¡¯s hand away and dropped it to her side.


    ¡°These are working hours so you should be at work or home¡± he said squaring his jaw in annoyance. ¡°And if you want someone to indulge you with their presence then you should meet the person who invited you¡±


    Kieran took Arabe¡¯s hand and walked into the office without sparing a nce back at her.


    Kimberly followed Kieran and Arabe in. She ran to stand in front of them to block the path she stretched her hand sideways to stop them.


    ¡°But I came to see you¡± she said nting a bit. Arabe thought about how gorgeous she still looked as she bit the corners of her lips.


    ¡°Why would youe to see me?¡± Kieran asked.


    ¡°Because I missed you¡± she said batting her eyshes as if she was trying to invite him in.


    ¡°Missed me?¡± Kieran scoffed as she let out a hiss.


    ¡°Yes¡± she said leaning into him so her cleavage could show a little.


    ¡°I have no business with you and I don¡¯t even want to talk to you even if it¡¯s casually¡± he said with so much spite in his voice. His eyes darted to the smirking Aurora in the corner.


    How did she even think this far, if he went back to Kimberly she still did not have a chance with him so why did she desperately want to ruin his rtionship with Arabe?


    Kieran tried to go over her arm but she clung onto him like she was a parasite. He wiggled his hands to get her off his body. ¡°What are you doing?¡± he screamed causing the entire building to go off in silence.


    They all stared at him recoiled from her touch and stood a distance away from her. He wondered the kind of audacity she had to show up there and try to act like nothing had happened. He hoped that Arabe did not think he was happy with the situation.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He had moved past her and what she had to offer. She had hurt him pretty badly it had taken a whole lot for him to recover and now she was showing up with no shame whatsoever. He wondered what happened to the arm candy she had left him for.


    ¡°Someone call security¡± his eyes darted to the workers on the floor. Aaron rushed for the phone and dialled it quickly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever try to show up before me again¡± he said to her staring her down.


    ¡°But we were so in love¡±


    ¡°That was when I thought I knew what love was but I am in a real rtionship now¡± he said and she scoffed.


    ¡°A real rtionship? Are you saying what we had was fake?¡±


    ¡°Yes because you were so shallow, it¡¯s obvious you are here because you do not have anyone to indulge you anymore,¡± he said.


    She did not like how much he was able to read her so fast and well. ¡°What are you saying¡± she let out silently.


    This was not how she had expected the situation to go. She looked towards Aurora who stood in the distance. ¡°Did you not say he missed me?¡± Kimberly asked charging toward her.


    ¡°Did I?¡± Aurora asked. It seemed like she was enjoying the chaos in the office.


    ¡°You did, Why did you?¡±


    ¡°Because if I can¡¯t have him then no one else should and he should be as miserable as possible¡± Aurora let out.

 XC

    Everyone gasped as they heard what Aurora said out loud. She realised what she had done, the words she intended to say to herself had found their way out of her mouth. She let out a flustered grunt as she took a step back, her body hitting the wall behind her.


    ¡°What?¡± Kimberly was forced to let out. Her mind finally began to understand what was going on and why she was dragged there. Aurora had told her about the rtionship between Kieran and a coworker but had assured her that Kieran always only thought about her and was in the rtionship to forget her.


    She could not believe she was pulled into such a mess. Her mind ran wild as she thought of how shameless she had been in the past few minutes. ¡°Kieran,¡± she said gently taking a step towards him.


    ¡°Was this your n? To humiliate yourself in front of all these people?¡± Kieran asked with a smirk as he gestured to the room full of staff.


    ¡°I swear I did not know all that,¡± Kimberly said.


    As much as she still felt a spark for him, she had always felt it she just did not know how to handle the situation after such a long time so she just learnt to live with it, she did not think she would be ying the role of a rtionship wrecker.


    She walked to Aurora and pushed her gently by the shoulder. ¡°What and why did you do that?¡± she asked as soon as her hand touched her body.


    ¡°Do what?¡±


    Kimberly could not believe the bold look on her face, she had humiliated herself so much that if it were her she would want the ground to split in two and swallow her whole so she did not have to face the situation. She looked confident as if what she had done was not wrong.


    ¡°Why did you invite me here to wreck a rtionship so you could have it?¡± Kimberly asked.


    She was already embarrassed so she did not mind thenguage she used, she was going to get to the end of the matter and resolve it as much as she could before she disappeared from their lives once again.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Because Kieran had been the worst, ten years I waited, he never came to me, he knew my feelings and toyed with me as much as he wanted, he never for once looked at him even though I stayed with him all this while¡±


    Aurora¡¯s voice cracked as she spoke but she fought back the tears threatening to fall on her face. She had to stand strong to the end. She felt as though he was slipping away from her hands but she did not care since she had alreadye this far.


    ¡°Did he ever promise you?¡± Kimberly asked. At this point the only thing she felt for her friend was concern. She seemed so troubled she wondered if her mental state was normal.


    ¡°Does he have to promise me? I have been with him my entire life so he should be with me for the rest of it¡± she screamed as she charged forward.


    ¡°Everything was going so great until this tramp came along¡± Aurora screamed standing in front of Arabe. She wanted toy her hands on her but decided against it in case anything went wrong. She was not interested in spending her day and night at the police station.


    ¡°Going great?¡± Kieran scoffed as he held Arabe¡¯s hand tightly to his side. ¡°There has never been anything between us,¡± he said bitterly.


    ¡°The only reason we are here standing eye to eye is because of Ryder¡± Kieran added pointing to the direction Ryder was standing. ¡°We would have lost contact a long time ago¡±


    Aurora took a step back. ¡°Sounds like you hate me¡±


    ¡°I have never hated you but you seem to be giving me a reason to do so¡±


    ¡°You just had to date her didn¡¯t you?¡± Aurora asked pointing to Arabe.


    Arabe did not like the situation, she wished there was a way to escape from the ce but between the firm grip on her wrist and the stares from her co-workers, she knew it was practically impossible. They all gasped as they put two and two together to finally figure it out.


    Arabe and Kieran were in a rtionship and Aurora found out, enraged by the fact that she was not the chosen one for Kieran¡¯s love she made his ex-girlfriend and her best friend show up unannounced at his workce to cause a scene. Surprisingly her n fails woefully when her best friend finds out she has been fooled and doesn¡¯t have any of that attached to her name.


    Ryder took a step forward, he had to be responsible at least for the situation. ¡°These are working hours and we should not be doing this now, do this in your own free time, everyone gets to work immediately¡± he said pping his hands in the air.


    Aurora turned on her feet and stormed her office mming the door shut both on her way in and out. She stood by the door as she narrowed her eyes at everyone in annoyance. ¡°I am taking the day off¡± she screamed as she stormed out of the office.


    ¡°Kieran,¡± Kimberly said turning to face him. ¡°I know this sounds unbelievable but I did not mean for any of this to happen, I hope you understand¡± she added before basically running out of the ce. She had to go find Aurora and give her a piece of her mind.


    ¡°Get to work¡± Ryder said again since everyone refused to respond and instead stood there with a mouth wide open.


    Arabe was the first to make a move and as if they were all waiting for her they moved almost immediately as well. Chole pulled Arabe closer to her and whispered in her ears.


    ¡°We have to discuss this after work¡± She strained her voice so no one else could hear them.


    ¡°Sure¡±

 XCI

    ¡°I thought we were friends how can you keep such a secret away from me¡± Chole said as she took the cup of beer in front of her to her mouth.


    She had sessfully been able to take Arabe out of the office before Kieran got the chance to do so. They both saw how messy everything unfolded and how unpretty their rtionship announcement was to the entire office.


    Arabe knew that she would need to discuss with Kieran soon, she was not even aware of what the details of the discussion were going to be but she knew it was important for them.


    ¡°It¡¯s been only three days¡± she said swirling her soda in hand. ¡°Today is the third day¡± she added with a smile on her face.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Chole gagged as she held her chest.


    ¡°I thought you found Kieran hot?¡± Arabe asked when she saw her reaction.


    There was no doubt about his appearance. He had an advantage in that aspect. It was always as though he stepped out of a movie or book.


    ¡°Yes but who thought you would go ahead and snag the handsome old bachelor,¡± Chole said before taking a sip of her drink once more and whispering. ¡°The age gap¡±


    Arabe had tried not to let the age gap between them bother her, she knew others around them would definitely bring it up and make her think about it. She shrugged as if her words had no impact on her.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°There is nothing wrong with a ten year age gap¡± Arabe said finally taking a sip of her soda. It was gradually losing its taste because she had stirred it around so much.


    ¡°That¡¯s what you say now until you both have to make real essential decisions and he is doing so like an oldie that he is. Yes, he is handsome and hot to look at not to date¡± Chole said.


    ¡°Seems like you are criticizing my choice¡±


    ¡°Of course not¡± Chole jumped to say. ¡°I am only airing my own views about the matter. Are you happy?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡± Arabe responded. Her previous rtionships had never managed to give her the kind of feeling she had now so she was keeping her fingers crossed hoping that the feelings were the good kind and she had made the right decisions.


    ¡°Then that¡¯s all that matters, I might have some opinions about it but it does not change what you want¡±


    Chloe¡¯s words and expressions did not match. It was obvious that she wanted to tell her off for being in a rtionship with Kieran but at the same time wanted to act as if she did care about it.


    They chatted a bit more before they left the restaurant. As they stood outside waiting for a cab Kieran pulled up. He rolled down the window and honked so they looked at him.


    ¡°Hellodies,¡± He said winking at Arabe.


    She could not help the ongoing butterfly war in her stomach as she tried to pull a straight way.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± he said.


    Chole pushed Arabe towards the car. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going toe with us? He can drop you off¡± Arabe offered.


    Even though she offered she hoped that Chole would decline, she had not had a chance to be alone with him all day and all she hoped for at that moment was some time with just him.


    ¡°You are inviting me but I can hear the unspoken words. I¡¯ll pass¡± she said nudging her a bit more to the car.


    ¡°It¡¯s no big, we can drop you off¡± Arabe continued urging. She turned to Kieran. ¡°It¡¯s okay if we drop her off at home right?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Kieran said. It won¡¯t take long to take her home so it was not that much of a big deal for him.


    ¡°And sit with you both act like lovers and remind me of my single life? No thanks,¡± she said taking a step back and crossing her hands across her chest.


    ¡°You had a drink, it might not be safe for you to be alone¡± Arabe wanted to be alone with him but she did not want to leave her friend all alone out at night after a drink.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I¡¯m barely even tipsy and I can make it back home by myself,¡± she said demonstrating that she was not in any way near drunk.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Arabe asked with a worried expression.


    ¡°Sure¡± Chole said pushing her forward once again.


    ¡°Okay then, I will see you tomorrow,¡± Arabe said as she climbed into the car.


    ¡°See you tomorrow¡± Chole said taking a step backward. Kieran nodded to her before rolling up the window and driving away.


    As they merged into the traffic Kieran¡¯s hand found her hand and intertwined it before taking it up to his mouth and nting a kiss on it.


    ¡°I missed you¡± he whispered with her hand still in his mouth.


    ¡°Me too¡± she added turning to face him. They were in traffic which was quite bad at that time of the night because of their location.


    ¡°Have you had dinner?¡± Arabe asked.


    ¡°I was waiting to have it with you¡±


    ¡°With me?¡±


    ¡°Remember what you said about trying all the good restaurants around together?¡± he asked and she nodded.


    ¡°Is that the reason?¡± she asked her eyes glistening out of happiness.


    ¡°Of course, so what do you feel like eating tonight?¡¯ he asked and she tilted her head to act as if she was thinking about it.


    ¡°Chinese? Italian? Japanese? Korea?¡± Kieran asked giving her options.


    ¡°Anything you want to eat¡± She had a little to eat while she and Chole drank but it could not be considered a full meal and she was not exactly good with picking what to eat so she hoped that he would make a good choice and pick something for them.


    ¡°Should we do French breakfast?¡±


    ¡°At night?¡± she asked surprised at his choice.


    ¡°I know a good spot that only sells French breakfast at night, it¡¯s a popr dating spot. Want to go there?¡±


    ¡°Of course¡±

 XCII

    Aurora paced up and down her living room in annoyance, she could not tell if it was the day that made her so mad or if it was because she was rejected by Kieran once again. With each step she took her annoyance rose and she only thought of what she could do to feel better.


    She hated that the thoughts that came to mind were violent but she loved the way they put her heart at ease. They way they left a smile across her face. She felt pushed more to get those things done.


    Arabe had offended her so it would not be wrong if she offended her as well. ¡°An eye for an eye¡± she murmured to herself as she nodded her head.


    ¡°A little kidnapping and threatening should work¡± she added and felt an evil smile climb her face and the urge to cackle out loud strong within her.


    At that very moment, she knew that she could not be alone, there was no way she could get to pull off such a thing on her own. She did not know how or what to do so she got her brother a call. He would know better about those things since he was an ex-convict.


    It had been quite a while since he served time in hail and he had been cleaned ever since then but it did not mean that he would not be in touch with his friends from prison who would agree to get their hands dirty for the right price.


    ¡°Oh if it isn¡¯t the Mrs perfect¡± Carlos snorted immediately after the call connected.


    Arabe had tried her best to sever the rtionship between herself and him because she was embarrassed by him and did not fail to let him know as many times as she could. She could not believe she needed his help. She would not have called him if she did not need his help urgently.


    ¡°How have you been?¡± she asked pressing her lips together and biting the insides of the mouth.


    ¡°As an ex-convict, I have to say life has been pretty tough not the same with you who lives a pitch-perfect life¡± he replied bitterly.


    He hated the way she had treated him after he was charged and spent a little bit of time in jail. She never for once visited him not to talk ore to pick him up after he had been discharged and when he tried to reach out she coldly turned him down with excuses such as she was extremely busy.


    ¡°I need you to do something¡± she said as though she was trying to give amand and he burst out intoughter.


    ¡°You need me to do something?¡± he asked. She nodded as she felt herself biting on her fingernails. ¡°And why would I do anything for you?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Because I can pay handsomely¡± she blurted hoping the money card would work. She knew that if anyone treated her the way she treated him then she would definitely not listen to anything they had to say but if she was correct and money was his weakness then she already had him in the palm of her hand.


    ¡°Let¡¯s hear it¡±


    Aurora smirked to herself as she began to feel confident about the situation. She knew he would feel moved by money and she had not even mentioned the amount. She was d she had a savings and investment n she could pull out if her emergency funds were not enough to pull off her n. At that moment all she thought about was how to hurt Arabe and she was currently blinded by it.


    ¡°I need to kidnap and threaten someone for a little bit¡±


    ¡°What?¡± of all the things Carlos thought his sister would saymitting a crime was not one of them.


    ¡°Yeah just for a little bit¡± she added nonchntly as though she had not just asked him tomit a crime.


    ¡°Aurora, I cannotmit a crime just because you said so,¡± he said gently hoping that she would snap out of whatever it was she was going through at that time.


    ¡°Then maybe you can connect me with someone who would do it¡±


    ¡°Aurora snap out of it¡±


    ¡°You snap out of it,¡± she screamed out. ¡°I have lived this perfect life all my years just because I thought I would have been awarded a good man but the good man I want is being taken away from me and you want me to snap out of it?¡± she added shouting on top of her lungs.


    ¡°So you want to kidnap who?¡±


    ¡°A girl who stole my boyfriend,¡± she said with pride.


    ¡°I cannot kidnap anyone and you would not be doing that as well¡±


    ¡°Why is it because you think I can¡¯t pay? I have a lot of money stashed up, I have only ever worked my entire life so I have a lot of savings and if it¡¯s not enough then I can pull out some of my investment too¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°Aurora, I am a reformed person now, I can go aroundmitting sin, what if I end up in the station, my offence would be greater¡±


    ¡°Then link me up with someone who is willing to do it,¡± Aurora said in a tone of finality. She was tired of the back and forth with him and just wanted to get the help she needed.


    If he was not willing to help her then she was going to take matters into her own hands and search them out herself, she knew she could do what she set her mind to, whatever it was.


    ¡°How much are you willing to spend?¡±


    ¡°Twenty million¡± Aurora said without missing a beat.


    The sound of such around made Carlos feel his heart beat faster. He was in need of money and if he did it right with a couple of other guys he could be walking away with a decent share.


    ¡°That little?¡± he asked trying to push his luck, maybe he could discourage her. She made a sound at the back of her throat before grunting.


    ¡°Let¡¯s make it thirty then¡±


    ¡°I think we can get it done¡±

 XCIII

    Kieran and Arabe stood in front of the door to her room, they had been standing there for a while now. Kieran did not invite her for tea and it was obvious from the way he was clinging to her and the way she could not let go of his hands that they were not ready to be apart yet.


    ¡°I guess we should say good night now¡± Arabe finally let out.


    ¡°Good night?¡± Arabe could not tell if she heard him clearly ask her or if her mind was ying tricks on her. She pressed her lips into a line and nodded her head.


    ¡°Or¡± she began with a squeaked voice as his eyes brightened up with expectations of whatever it was that she was about to suggest.


    ¡°Do you want toe in?¡± she asked. He went silent. He did not know what he was expecting but not her being this forward about the situation. He felt a bit flustered, she had been the only girl who had managed to make him feel that way a couple of times.


    ¡°Just for a minute so your legs don¡¯t hurt from standing out here since you have been standing for quite a while, I was just worried¡± her rambling was cut short by Kieran leaning in towards her.


    She felt her breath hitch in her throat and her eyes fluttered close. She wanted to keep her eyes open but it seemed like she was failing so very carefully. She gulped as she waited for any action but it never came.


    She felt a gush of wind touch the exposed part of her skin causing goose bumps to rise all over her skin. She opened her eyes to see the door behind her closed.


    ¡°What?¡± she could not help the word escape her mouth before she could control herself.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°Were you expecting something else?¡± Kieran asked in a teasing tone. He had been tempted to kiss her but held himself back.


    ¡°Like what?¡± she asked feeling embarrassed. Why did she think about a kiss at that time and even give in to her thoughts with the way she fought herself so badly?


    ¡°A kiss¡± Kieran responded with his hand tracing his lips a bit seductively. Arabe could feel the teasing seductioning from him and she wanted to ignore it as much as she could.


    ¡°What¡± Arabe let out with a slightly loud voice. ¡°Why would I be thinking about that? I can¡¯t even remember thest time I thought about anything like that¡± she added. She knew she was stuttering and rambling but she could not help herself.


    At that moment she wished she had not invited him in, if she had not then she would have gone in and buried her head in a pillow. She turned on her heels trying to act a bit normal as she entered the room. She stood a few feet from the door and tilted her head.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t youing in?¡± she asked in a kind of cool voice.


    ¡°Yeah¡± he said stepping in and closing the door behind himself.


    ¡°Wee to my¡­¡±


    She could barely get all the words out when his lips smashed hers with an urgency she could not exin.


    Arabe felt herself kissing back as her hand roamed his neck. It had only been a few seconds but the kiss was definitely hotter than the first one they had. She pulled away with all the self-control she had and stood apart breathless as she tried to catch herself.


    ¡°Your dad¡± she managed to let out and he shook his head.


    ¡°What does he have to do with this?¡± Kieran asked confused.


    ¡°He is only a few rooms down, we can¡¯t be doing this here¡± she replied. Her eyes danced in their sockets and Kieran saw them as an invitation.


    ¡°Doing what?¡± he asked closing the gap between them that she had created.


    ¡°This¡± she motioned between each other. She felt a bit bad about the situation. His parents had given her a room and ce to stay and the way she had to repay them was by being their son¡¯s girlfriend.


    ¡°Is there anything wrong with kissing my girlfriend?¡± he asked taking a lock of her hair away from her face.


    ¡°There isn¡¯t, but¡­¡± she trailed off her eyes falling to her feet.


    His hand quickly raised her head so he could see her better. ¡°Don¡¯t look down or away, I want to see your beautiful eyes¡± he said brushing her hair down with his second hand.


    Her heart skipped a beat. She could not believe his words found a way to make her flustered as much as she felt at that moment. She tried to look away but his hand on her chin was firm so she was forced to look at him.


    She was notining because he was quite the eye candy and looking at him was not a bad idea at all.


    ¡°I want to kiss you so badly but I would only do so if you are ready and give me the permission. Don¡¯t worry I can wait¡± he said when he saw the worry dance in her eyes.


    ¡°I am just worried about your dad catching us¡±


    ¡°Then what?¡±


    ¡°I am not sure your father likes me very much, he thinks I am a bad influence on your mom. I have seen the way he looks at me and I have also heard the things he said to Everly. I am just worried he would not approve of us¡± she let out her fears to him.


    ¡°I understand your concern and there is nothing I can say to ease your fears now I know that it is valid to have those fears so as I said earlier I would wait for you to ease your worries first then¡­¡± he trailed off.


    She nodded in gratitude. She was d he handled her feelings with great care. Other people might have called her delusional or just a scaredy cat for having such feelings but he had validated hers. She felt a bit better. ¡°We can convince him about itter¡± he said trying to make light of the situation.


    ¡°Sure,¡± she said with another nod.


    ¡°Should we go to bed?¡± he asked and she nodded.


    ¡°There or here?¡±

 XCIV

    Kieran somehow managed to convince Arabe to sleep and just sleep together. He promised to be out of her room before his father found out about it, that was after he assured her that his father would not be against their rtionship and even if he was he would be the one to defend her.


    She was touched by his words and gave in, It was a right cuddle and she loved the way he held her all through the night and the way his scent filled her nose with every breath she took. She felt him leave by morning but she was deep asleep to wake up.


    Kieran got into his room and sat on his bed, he was d it was finally Friday and he could spend a bit more time alone with Arabe without bothering and thinking about going to work. His mind went back to what Aurora had done yesterday.


    He knew it was his cue to leave, he had told Ryder and Aurora that this was not his long-term n. He would help them with his expertise so they could thrive in the market but he was not going to be with them forever.


    He had found a way to help them and they were thriving pretty well, considering Aurora and her actions he knew it was time to leave, If he stayed a bit more then he was not sure he would be able to predict what she would do.


    He knew leaving would not solve the problem because he had no job for Arabe and she was the one in real danger, but he had to do something. He thought long and hard about the situation as he tried toe up with something but all to no avail.


    He decided to exercise a bit before getting ready for work. After putting on his clothes and finishing up his morning routine he went down to make breakfast and saw his dad already down.


    ¡°My wife has been gone for a while now,¡± Ethan said as Kieran entered the kitchen.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a few days, not even up to a week¡± Kieran said. He wondered why his dad was so on edgetely.


    Everly had travelled a lot when he was still a child and Ethan had learned to deal with it but it seemed as though he was having a harder time now.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time,¡± Ethan said staring into space.


    ¡°Have you called her?¡± Kieran asked. His dad had been avoiding speaking to Everly ever since she left. Kieran had noticed it but kept to himself.


    ¡°How do you know?¡±


    ¡°She asked me about you yesterday, I thought it was weird so I probed her,¡± Kieran said causing Ethna to release a strange noise.


    ¡°You fought right? That¡¯s why she took this trip isn¡¯t it?¡± Kieran continued when Ethan said nothing.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a fight perse, it¡¯s all my fault,¡± Ethan said. He nned not to say anymore, he did not want his son to think low of him so he avoided going into details.


    ¡°I know both of you don¡¯t want to tell me the details but I am sure you want to speak to her and she wants to hear from you so you should give her a call¡±


    Kieran watched his father walk away with his phone in his hand as he tapped away earnestly. It seemed like he was checking the time difference to know if it was a good time to call. Kieran got started on breakfast.


    He felt his body stiffen up when a hand wrapped across his torso. He stood still for a moment before rxing and rubbing her hand gently.


    ¡°I thought you wanted to be careful around my dad?¡± Kieran asked holding her hand before turning to face her.


    ¡°I did but you left the bed so early I missed you¡± Kieran could not deny how bold Arabe had been.


    He was not sure if the rtionship made her bold or if she had been pretending all this while and was actually this bold.


    ¡°I missed you too but you said to get out of bed early¡± he said pulling her closer.


    ¡°You should have woken me up at the very least¡± she continued scrunching her face up so she could see him properly.


    ¡°I did not want to disturb you. You look so peaceful like an angel while you sleep¡± he said.


    ¡°Have you seen an angel before?¡± she asked and he shook his head.


    ¡°I thought they did not exist on earth. That was until I met you¡± he added.


    Arabe shuddered in his hands as she felt the cringe in what he said. It was cringy but she liked it. She could not remember thest time she heard those kinds of words from someone else.


    ¡°Errmm¡± Ethan cleared his throat behind them. They had been so busy in their own world that they had failed to notice the man standing there watching them all this while.


    Arabe froze as she felt her heart drop to the ground. She nuzzled closer to Kieran instead of pulling away as he would have expected. Kieran only prolonged the discussion because he thought Ethan would spend a little time on the phone with Everly.


    ¡°So sorry to disrupt your little¡­ erm¡­¡± Ethan trailed off. He did not know what to call their session. He had not seen his son like that before and he did not want to act so surprised before them both.


    ¡°I just wanted to know if now is a good time to call them in Japan¡± he continued trying to sound as normal as possible. It was impossible for him since he had just caught his son acting so lovingly towards a girl.


    Arabe stood still as she waited for Kieran to handle the situation. Kieran gave her a questioning look and she nodded.


    ¡°Yes it is, you should hurry so you can catch her before it¡¯s bedtime¡± Kieran said.


    Ethan understood that he was trying to hurry him away so he left without a word. Arabe let out a breath she did not know she was holding and took a step back. She was still very close to him. She hung her head low out of embarrassment before letting out.


    ¡°And here is the major reason I want to move out¡±

 XCV

    The day went by in a sh and Kieran knew that the calls from his mom by the time it was close to closing hours indicated that his parents had made up and Ethan had transferred the information between parties.


    Everly must have now been aware of the situation and must have wanted to hear from him. He sent a text to her exining he was busy and that he would call herter when he was free.


    ¡°I think both our parents know¡± Kieran said as he drove home.


    ¡°Both our parents?¡± Arabe shrieked as she turned to him with wide eyes.


    ¡°Mom has been calling me nonstop stop and Dad caught us in the morning at home. I am guessing that she had told him and also that she might have told your mom¡±


    ¡°My sister knows as well¡± Arabe said biting on her lip and trailing off as she spoke. ¡°And I think I might have been the one to let your mom in¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Kieran asked turning to her briefly before turning back to the road.


    ¡°I mean when you first asked me out, I was so flustered and disturbed that I was distracted. She noticed that something was up and then asked me about it, since I needed advice I decided to tell her¡± Arabe rambled.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I only told her because the words weighed on my mind and I had no one to talk to¡±


    ¡°Well, what did she say?¡± Kieran was hoping his mom put in a good word for him. Maybe that might have been what would determine her changing her mind so quickly.


    ¡°If you are asking if she was in support of you then I am sorry to burst your bubble¡± Arabe said slowly. She watched the excited look in his eyes die down.


    ¡°She spoke so highly of you but¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s okay, I don¡¯t want to hear anymore,¡± he said squaring his jaw before looking out from the window beside him ¡°I can¡¯t believe that woman¡± he muttered to himself.


    ¡°All that matters is that we are together,¡± she said in an encouraging tone. Her hand went over his huge hands and it was like a wasted effort because it could barely cover anything.


    Kieran overturned her hand and covered up her hand in his. He sent a small smile to her and she felt her stomach beat in excitement.


    ¡°You know you have a very¡­¡± she trailed off. She had wanted topliment him and she did not want to sound weird.


    ¡°I have?¡± he asked tugging on her hand. He wanted to listen and hear everything she had to say.


    ¡°You have a beautiful smile, I wonder why you don¡¯t smile more often¡± she finally let out after a little time of consideration.


    ¡°Do you want me to smile often?¡± he asked and she nodded before taking a moment to think it through.


    ¡°Wait,¡± she said lifting her free finger in the air. ¡°Don¡¯t smile at other women, they might get lost in them¡± she said with a serious expression.


    ¡°So to you alone?¡± he asked. She was not sure if he was teasing her or not but she went along with it because she was dead serious about it so she nodded.


    ¡°I had no intention of smiling at other women anyway¡±


    Ethan stopped them in the living room as though he had been waiting for them. He had made up with his wife with the help of his son and he knew it was time to address what he had seen in the morning.


    ¡°I want to talk to you,¡± he said. ¡°Both¡± he added when he saw that Arabe was about to escape.


    ¡°Me?¡± she asked pointing to herself.


    ¡°Yes you,¡± Ethan said with a nod.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Arabe said pressing her lip into a thin line and walking toward the couch.


    ¡°Let¡¯s sit¡± Ethan gestured to the couches. Arabe sat and Kieran sat beside her. She shifted a bit to give space between them because of the embarrassment she felt by the situation. She guessed that Ethan might want to talk about what he had walked in to see and she was very right about it.


    ¡°Do any of you want to exin what I saw this morning?¡± Ethan finally let out after contemting for a while.


    ¡°We are dating¡± Kieran said without missing a heartbeat.


    ¡°I think I was able to deduce that from the situation,¡± Ethan said before making a sound at the back of his throat.


    ¡°Oh, you were?¡± Arabe let out in a squeak.


    ¡°How did this happen? Was this you?¡± Ethan turned to Arabe. Before she could defend herself or say anything Kieran was ready to speak.


    ¡°I went after her because I realized my feelings for her. So I was the one who started everything and not her. I just want to say I won¡¯t stand by and allow you to give her a tough time for being with your son. Doing that only makes you look and feel like a bully¡± Kieran went on and on without stopping.


    ¡°Wait what?¡± Ethan asked stopping him from saying any more.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you calling this meeting because you disapprove of the rtionship?¡± Kieran asked when he saw the expression on his father¡¯s face.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°Disapprove?¡± Ethan asked confused.


    ¡°I know you don¡¯t like me sir but your son¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like you? Where did you get that from?¡± Ethan asked. He could not help but feel bad about the notion Arabe and Kieran had of him.


    He had been happy for his son, at least he had found a way to be happy. He had seen him express emotions in the morning, they were the kind of happy eyes he had never seen on his son.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that it?¡± Arabe trailed off now realizing that it was possible that she had gotten the wrong idea of the situation and was being paranoid for nothing.


    ¡°I was only asking her if she approached you because the Kieran I know would not go after a woman but I am d to hear that he was the one who went after you and also I like you Arabe, you are like a breath of fresh air to his stuffy house¡±


    Ethan pped his thigh before pushing himself up. ¡°I am d that you two can find something within each other¡±

 XCVI

    ¡°See you were worried about nothing¡± Kieran said as soon as his father was out of sight and hearing.


    ¡°I was?¡± Arabe asked tilting her head. It seemed like her mind had yet to process the situation at hand. Had Ethan just approved of their rtionship without aint? Had he just admitted that she was a breath of fresh air to their lives and that he had no issue with her?


    ¡°Yes of course¡± Kieran slid close to her and took her hand in his yfully sliding her thumb over the back of her hand.


    ¡°How?¡± she let out her eyebrows knit in confusion.


    ¡°I guess you have a kind of charm that everyone cannot deny,¡± Kieran said with a toothy grin.


    ¡°A charm?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what it is about you but you seem to make everyonefortable around you¡±


    ¡°Except for Aurora¡± Arabe murmured silently. Of all the things she did not like about the situation, the situation with Aurora was the worst.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind her, she is just a crazy person¡± Kieran said. ¡°Can we talk about anything else?¡± he asked not wanting to spend his time with Arabe talking about Aurora who had deliberately tried to ruin what they had.


    ¡°Okay¡± Arabe said swinging her feet back and forth. They sat for a bit before Arabe decided it was time for them to go to bed. She exined to him that she was going toe clean to her mom and that he should do the same. If Everly knew then it meant that her mom was aware and just probably waiting for her to say it first.


    ¡°Hello Mom¡±


    ¡°You are so busy these days little one, I barely get even a text from you¡± Ava said as soon as the call connected and her daughter¡¯s voice came through.


    ¡°I am sorry a lot has been happening to me¡± Arabe responded pacing around her room.


    ¡°But you seem to have time to talk to your sister, I guess she is more important to you than I am¡± Arabe rolled her eyes at her mom. She was an expert at emotional ckmail.


    ¡°Mom you know it¡¯s never that way¡±


    ¡°And I suddenly turned to mom? From mommy? I would wake up one day and you would be calling me mother¡± Arabe rolled her eyes at how dramatic she was being for no reason.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to know the reason I called?¡±


    ¡°Of course, there has to be a reason¡± Ava continued. She knew exactly why her daughter called and she was not ready to hear it yet because she was not sure how she felt about it. Kieran was a decade older than her how were they going to be able to cope?


    ¡°Mom, I will get off this call if you don¡¯t let me speak¡± Arabe threatened. She knew that she kept her mom in lock so she could speak.


    ¡°So I¡¯m seeing someone¡± she said holding her breath.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You are?¡± Ava tried to sound surprised but was failing woefully.


    ¡°I know you know this already because Everly probably told you but I wanted you to hear it from me¡±


    ¡°Are you happy with the rtionship?¡± Ava could not stop herself from asking.


    ¡°Of course yes¡± Arabe replied with a nod.


    ¡°I have no issues with whoever you pick, as long as you are happy, I am happy¡±


    Arabe talked a bit more with her mom before calling it a night. She went straight to bed because she and Kieran had a day nned for the next day she wanted to feel refreshed for the day.


    She felt her head throbbing but decided to ignore it. She was sure it was nothing much and a good rest would fix her up by morning. She left a good night text for Kieran which he responded almost immediately.


    He was suggestinging over but she told him not to. They had to be a little careful since they had just been caught by Ethan. Kieran stared at her text and felt a smile climb his face. He knew that he had to let her onto his n about leaving thepany.


    By the time morning came around, Kieran was up and ready, he went for a run as usual before going to make a small breakfast. By the time he was done with the breakfast, he went to check up on Arabe.


    He knocked on the door and waited for a response. ¡°Maybe she is sleeping in because it¡¯s a Saturday?¡± he murmured to himself before knocking again.


    He listened carefully and heard a small groan followed by a dry cough. He turned the doorknob and it opened so he let himself into the room, rushing to her bed.


    His first contact with her skin shocked him because she was almost boiling with the way her temperature was on the high side. He pressed his lips together as he turned her to face him.


    ¡°Arabe?¡± he said and her eyes flickered open.


    ¡°It¡¯s my boyfriend,¡± she said with a low voice and a forced toothy smile.


    ¡°How do you feel?¡± he asked and she shook her head.


    ¡°I am fine, I just need to get up and make it in time for our date¡± she let out trying her best to sit up in bed.


    ¡°Stay down¡± he said pushing her shoulders back to the bed.


    ¡°Why? If I stay down longer then we might not be able to go out on our date¡± she asked letting out a dry cough again.


    ¡°Because you are sick,¡± he said. He found it cute that she was so invested in going out with him but there was no way he could take her out when she looked like such a mess.


    ¡°I am not sick, just give me a few minutes¡± she said struggling once again to get out of bed.


    ¡°Stay down, let me try to get your fever down, if it doesn¡¯t work then we have to go to the hospital¡± he said before pushing himself out of bed and the room.


    ¡°I want to go on a date¡± she murmured as he walked away.

 XCVII

    Kieran helped Arabe with her fever but it seemed like no matter what he tried it was not going down. He even called Everly for help and she had told him what to do. He did it but it seemed like an effort in futility.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you just take her to the hospital? I am sure she can get better treatment there¡± Everly said when he called again and she confirmed that she was not getting any better.


    ¡°I wanted to watch her for a few more minutes¡­¡±


    ¡°You are not a doctor¡± Everly cut off her son before he could say anymore.


    ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­¡± Kieran trailed off before biting the corner of his lips.


    ¡°I know you don¡¯t want to be away from her and all but she is sick and you need to get her treated as soon as possible¡± Everly exined.


    Kieran nodded, his mother was making sense. ¡°I am sure it¡¯s something mild but it¡¯s better the doctors have a look at her¡± Everly added.


    ¡°I will take her now¡± Kieran said wanting to get off the call. He would have to drive her to the hospital himself so he wanted to get on it as soon as possible.


    ¡°Keep me updated about the situation okay? Her mom is worried sick, so we need to know¡± Everly said.


    ¡°Mom, I clearly told you not to tell her mom yet¡± Kieran groaned.


    ¡°I could not help it, I had to tell her,¡± Everly said with an eye roll. ¡°It¡¯s about her child after all¡± she added ending her statement with a weird noise.


    ¡°The deed has been done, there is no point crying over spilt milk, I will talk to youter,¡± Kieran said and cut off the call before she could reply.


    He shook Arabe lightly to wake her up, she groaned as she made a sound of difort at the back of her throat before turning to back him.


    ¡°Arabe?¡± he said gently as he waited for her.


    ¡°Hmm,¡± she let out silently.


    ¡°Can you sit up right?¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡± she made a sound of approval.


    ¡°Okay then, we need to get to the hospital¡± Kieran said and she turned so her face was to him.


    ¡°What about our date?¡± she asked barely sounding human.


    ¡°You need to be fine for our date¡±


    ¡°I am fine¡± she let out faintly.


    ¡°You are not¡±


    ¡°Of course, I am¡± Kieran could not believe she was ready to go back and forth with him even though her voice was barely making it out of her throat.


    ¡°Okay then, let¡¯s do this, we visit the hospital and then go on our date¡± Kieran said as though he was trying to strike a bargain.


    ¡°No¡± she dragged out nuzzling her face closer to him.


    ¡°Come on, do this for me¡± he said and she pushed herself so she could see him with her strained eyes.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± she asked and he nodded.


    ¡°Of course¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± she said pushing herself off the bed.


    Kieran helped her out of the room to the car and then to the hospital. The doctor examined her and said she got the viral flu that was making rounds and that it was not a big deal if she took the medication prescribed to her, she would be fine in no time.


    By the time Kieran parked out front, she was fast asleep, he was about to get down from the car to take her up when he saw Aurora standing in the distance waving at him.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± he askeding down from the car to meet her as she approached him.


    ¡°I am here to speak to you,¡± she said her eyes darting to behind Kieran to look at Arabe in the car, she pointed to Arabe. ¡°And her¡±


    ¡°To see us?¡± Kieran asked. He tried to read her eyes but it seemed like she was hiding the expression in her eyes.


    ¡°Yes¡±


    ¡°What is it about?¡±


    ¡°Are you not going to let me in?¡± she asked crossing her hand over her chest and leaning in a bit.


    Kieran took a step backwards and tried to steady his breath. He had to be patient with her because she had not done anything to upset him yet.


    ¡°Do you think letting you in is the wise thing to do?¡± he asked her and waited for her response. ¡°Considering the recent happenings between us?¡± he asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I am here about,¡± she asked taking a step forward.


    ¡°Can you stop trying to close the gap between us? You are making me quite ufortable¡± Kieran let out.


    Aurora grimaced at the sound of the words. She knew that was the way he was but she hoped that he would treat her a little better than he treated everyone else.


    ¡°Okay sorry¡± she let out trying to conceal her annoyance. She took a step back and held her breath.


    ¡°If you are here to see us, you can¡¯t do so today as you can see¡± Kieran pointed to the car where Arabe was still sleeping so peacefully. ¡°She is asleep and I can¡¯t wake her up, maybe we could meet outside tomorrow¡±


    Aurora could not believe how easily he was turning her down. She nned to lure Arabe out by acting remorseful and then having her brother kidnap her. She was not interested in any ransom and her brother had said that dropping her off in another state or city would be a good idea. She liked the idea and thought that by the time she had gotten back to the city maybe she and Kieran might have been an item.


    ¡°I am leaving tomorrow¡± she lied. She had to do whatever it took for them to execute the n today.


    ¡°You are leaving tomorrow?¡± Kieran asked and she nodded. He crossed his hand over his chest and then let out in a harsh tone. ¡°What does that have to do with me? with us?¡±


    She took a deep breath, he was trying his best to get on herst nerve and he was getting it so well.


    ¡°Because I want to apologize before I leave for good, after considering all that happened I believe it would be best for me to leave so I can fully heal, and apologizing to you both would be a good ce to start healing from¡± she let out.


    She watched his face as she tried to force out a tear from her eyes. ¡°Please¡± she let out when he was about to say something.


    ¡°Let¡¯s hear her out¡± Arabe said causing them to turn to her. Neither of them had seen or heard here down from the car.


    Aurora did not like Arabe but she liked how she made it easier for her just now, surely Kieran would listen to his girlfriend.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good idea¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s an apology, we should at least listen to her¡±

 INFORMATION

    First of I don¡¯t know if I should start with an apology or a vote of thanks because I owe both to my audience but here goes nothing.


    Dear Readers I am grateful to you all, you have been such support to me, asking for updates and even checking in on me while still checking out my other works it means so much to me.


    Now to my apology because you don¡¯t deserve what I have done to you all. How well can I say this so you all can understand!? As stated earlier I had a program which I had to attend and I was not allowed with electronic devices which resulted in my poor updates. When I got back from the camp I tried to begin writing for you all but I felt burnt out.


    So burnt out that the words that usually flowed so easily for me became hard and I even had a hard time writing little notes for myself and even replying to the messages of my loved ones. I found it hard to spell little words (And I mean it when I said I sat for a good thirty minutes trying to remember how to spell the word Her)


    I was going to go ahead and put chapters out there regardless of whatever I was going through but I knew that if I forced it then I would be ripping you off your hard-earned money to read substandard work and for this, my apology is long overdue.


    I was in a slump and I had a lot going on in my life also because I was looking for a day job. I was not interested in putting something not good enough out there. I just want to say how sorry I was for the continual silence without any updates whatsoever.


    The good news however is that I am recovering and doing better. That¡¯s the reason I can put out this announcement for y¡¯all to read. I wish there was a way to make this free so you don¡¯t have to pay to read it (I will look into this so it can be free).


    I am beginning to write again and I can¡¯t wait to share my stories with you once again. I am so excited about this and I hope you all can forgive me for this grave atrocity.


    Please look forward to seeing the updated tag on all my books soon


    WITH LOVE


    ZERA ?


    The good news however is that I am recovering and doing better. That¡¯s the reason I can put out this announcement for y¡¯all to read. I wish there was a way to make this free so you don¡¯t have to pay to read it (I will look into this so it can be free).


    I am beginning to write again and I can¡¯t wait to share my stories with you once again. I am so excited about this and I hope you all can forgive me for this grave atrocity.


    Please look forward to seeing the updated tag on all my books soon


    WITH LOVEContent is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ZERA ?

 XCVIII

    The idea of giving Aurora an audience did not sit well with Kieran, how could Arabe be so soft? After all the hardship the woman had put her through? She was supposed to be cursing her out while pulling her hair. He walked cautiously to her hoping his eyes were saying all ten words his mouth could not say then.


    ¡°Do we need to?¡± he asked not bothering to whisper. He was on his own legal property why did he need to act like a stranger on it?


    ¡°We don¡¯t need to,¡± Arabe said pursing her lips together and crossing her hand over her chest. She gave him a faint smile as she felt her legs feel weird.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She did not want to give Aurora any time to say anything but she did not want toe across to Kieran as someone who was unforgiving. She wanted him to think she was kind and forgiving that was why she was going through this right now even when her body was not exactly fine.


    ¡°Then why¡­¡± he trailed off when she opened her mouth to speak.


    ¡°We should do it because it¡¯s the right thing to do¡± She nced at Aurora standing behind them briefly. She looked like she had been taught a good lesson and was remorseful. Arabe was not able to tell the content of her heart at a nce but she hoped that her face reflected her inside too.


    ¡°She said she was leaving soon anyways so hearing her out is a good option¡± Arabe added stretching her hand and squeezing Kieran¡¯s hand.


    He took a deep breath, he did not want the situation to happen but he did not want her to think he was controlling and would not have a mind of her own. He desperately wanted to separate them but he could not.


    ¡°I am only giving you this opportunity because of Arabe¡± Kieran turned to Aurora and said spitefully.


    Aurora felt a knot in her throat and she tried to push it down. She turned her head to the side and gave a weary sad smile. ¡°Thank you so much for allowing me to clear my guilt¡±


    Arabe began to believe her, she sounded like she was telling the truth. Maybe her mind just wanted to believe her.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go in¡± Kieran said as he held Arabe¡¯s hand and turned towards the door.


    ¡°Are you going to leave your car here?¡± Aurora asked. Kieran nodded.


    ¡°I will move it after we have spoken¡± Kieran said taking a step forward.


    ¡°But¡­¡± Aurora began but trailed off when she saw the look Kieran gave her. She was hoping that Kieran would go park his car in the garage and she could somehow be able to distract Arabe out of the house to the corner of the street where her brother was waiting.


    She felt her phone vibrate in her pocket and she knew it was her brother, he was probably getting impatient. After all, she had bragged that isting her would be a piece of cake.


    She gritted her teeth in annoyance as her eyes fell on the intertwined hand in front of her. It would be a lot harder than she thinks to separate them now.


    ¡°Come on in¡±


    ¡°I would get something for us to drink, what would you like to have?¡± Arabe asked as they neared the living room.


    ¡°I would get it, just sit here¡± Kieran said dragging her towards the living room.


    ¡°I can get it,¡± Arabe said in a protest.


    ¡°You are not feeling too well, the doctor asked you to rest up so doing anything strenuous would not be good¡± Kieran said stopping her from moving.


    ¡°It¡¯s just something to drink,¡± Arabe said with an eye roll. He was being overly dramatic for no reason. She had a fever earlier but she was sure she was feeling better and the reason she wanted to be the one to get the drinks was because she wanted to give them some room.


    They had way more history together than with her. Aurora may have some things to tell him and she did not want to be in the way. Her mind felt skeptical about the meeting but she wanted to give her the benefit of the doubt. She hoped she would do better now.


    ¡°That I can get, sit here¡± Kieran said dropping her to the couch and turning to leave. He walked a bit before stopping mid-way and turning to them.


    ¡°Is fresh juice okay?¡± he asked and they both nodded in affirmation.


    Arabe scrunched her palms together. She pushed them open before squeezing both hands together. She turned to Aurora and gave her an uneasy smile.


    ¡°Well,¡± Arabe said tapping herp with her palm in nervousness. She wondered why she was nervous. This was supposed to be her territory so why was she so nervous about sitting here with Aurora?


    ¡°I know I should be the one to speak¡± Aurora started shifting a bit closer to her. Arabe felt herself recoiling, she did not feelfortable sitting that close to her.


    ¡°There are no words I can say that would be enough to erase what I did¡± Aurora continued. Arabe wished at that moment that she had a lie detector to know if she was just putting up a show or if she was honest.


    ¡°But you still did those things,¡± Kieran saiding in with their drinks. He dropped the tray to the table and sat close to Arabe such that there was no space between them both.


    ¡°Yes and I have no exnation as to why I did it, I guess I was blinded by rage and jealousy. I expected something and I felt hurt when I did not receive it¡± she said pressing her lips together to try and force tears out of her mouth. She hoped she was selling it well and that they were getting touched by her sob tales.


    ¡°I just want to say that I am so very sorry, saying sorry wouldn¡¯t and cannot erase what I have done¡±


    ¡°But it would make you feel better about yourself?¡± Kieran asked in a cold tone. Something about the whole apology felt wrong to him and did not sit right.


    ¡°Of course not, since I am moving away from the city, I n to spend my entire life in repentance,¡± she said sniffing to drag back the tears she had managed to form around her eyes.


    Kieran narrowed her eyes at her and patted hisp loudly before standing up. ¡°Okay then, we¡¯ve forgiven you,¡± he said.


    She stood up and wanted toe at him when he raised his hand to stop her. ¡°We have forgiven you¡± he said again and she stood still her eyes wide.


    ¡°Did you expect us not to?¡± Kieran asked trying to make sense of her action.


    ¡°Not immediately¡±


    ¡°We have forgiven so you can be on your way now, Arabe has to rest up now,¡± Kieran said helping Arabe to her feet.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°See yourself out¡± Kieran said leaving her behind.

 XCIX

    Aurora tried to steady herself as she walked to the car. She hated the way Kieran had belittled her. l in front of Arabe again. She bit the inside of her mouth in annoyance as she walked away.


    She got to the car and pushed herself into the front passenger seat. ¡°You are you here alone?¡± Carlos¡¯s gruff voice came out across to her as she sat down.


    She felt her heartache at the fact that she was unable to finish the task to the door end. She crossed her hand across her chest and turned to him giving him a sarcastic smile. He could see she was alone so why was he trying to rub salt in her injury?


    ¡°Of course genius, I am here alone¡± he snorted to him.


    ¡°Why?¡± he asked tapping lightly on the steering wheel. ¡°Did you have a change of heart? Is your heart too fragile to kidnap someone?¡± he joked and she was not happy about it and made sure to show her displeasure.


    ¡°My heart isn¡¯t too fragile, Kieran stopped me,¡± she said through gritted teeth.


    ¡°Then how did they manage to stop Miss Perfect Child from kidnapping a woman and finally getting her hands dirty?¡± Carlos snorted.


    She mmed her fist against the dashboard and turned to him. ¡°They went to the hospital because she was sick and Kieran would not leave her side. He stood with her like a parasite and there was no way for me to iste her¡±


    ¡°I told you that we should just go the old-school way. Kidnap her in a van and drop her off in a far location¡± Carlos said.


    He was worried she would back off from paying him and his guys if the kidnapping did not seem to end. He had to make sure that did not happen.


    ¡°I guess we might have to do that¡± Aurora said agreeing with him. Kieran smiled to himself, he was d he had finally found a way to talk sense to her.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    ¡°Let¡¯s kidnap her when she is isted. Do you have her schedule for Monday? Does she have any meetings outside that she might need to go alone? Do you know anyone who might help you iste her?¡±


    ¡°I guess I can try using her office friend,¡± Aurora said gently. She had observed all about Arabe that it was like she was out to worship her.


    ¡°Call her up, set a meeting and it would be best if you can get her drunk, she would be easier to move¡± Carlos suggested.


    The wheels in Aurora¡¯s head turned with pleasure. She liked the idea of isting her and getting her drink while dropping her in some random ce towns away. She tapped rapidly on the phone beforending on Chloe¡¯s number she smiled as she put the phone to her ears.


    ¡°Hello Ms. Aurora, what brings you to call me¡± Chole said as soon as she picked up. She did not know the reason she picked but just did it anyway so there would be no bad blood between both of them.


    ¡°Oh I am so d you picked up¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I mean I have been trying to reach at least someone in the office but everyone is ignoring my call¡± Aurora lied. She wanted to seem pitiful to her to gain sympathy so she would be moved to help her.


    ¡°I know it¡¯s because of the scene I caused the other day and that¡¯s why I am calling¡¯ she continued trying to maintain a sad tone.


    ¡°What about it?¡± Chole followed. She wanted to know more about the situation.


    ¡°I would like to apologize to the entire office but to Arabe first¡±


    ¡°Then call her,¡± Chole said.


    ¡°But she is not picking up my calls, can you set up a meeting for us tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow?¡± Chole asked shocked.


    ¡°Yeah call her up and ask her that we meet tomorrow¡±


    ¡°Okay I can do that, I will call her and let you know where we will meet¡±


    ¡°You areing as well?¡± Aurora asked.


    ¡°Do you not want me toe?¡± Chole asked catching up fast.


    ¡°Well, I think it would be awkward for you to be there as well. Just set up a meeting for us and send me the time and venue, after I have properly apologized to her I would set a meeting with the entire office and apologize to them as well¡± Aurora said.


    ¡°You would help me set the meeting since you are the only one in the office I can seem to get across to¡± she added. She had to make the girl feel special to get the deed done fast.


    ¡°Okay then I would let her know you want to see her¡± Chole said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do that,¡±


    ¡°I should not?¡± Chole was confused.


    ¡°Yeah¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Do you think she would agree to meet me? I have been trying to get to her but she is ignoring my calls meaning she would not meet up with me. Just act like it¡¯s a friendly lunch between both of you and then let me know the details. I just need to show up instead of you¡± Aurora lied and tried to convince her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if that¡¯s a good idea¡± Chole was sceptical. Did she really need to be alone with her to apologize?


    ¡°What¡¯s the worst that can happen? she does not agree to forgive Auroraurora was trying to paint herself as pitiful and like a saint so Chole has no choice but to agree.


    ¡°I am only doing this because you seem remorseful. I will call her up and let you know soon¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much¡± Aurora said as she tried to sound grateful.


    Aurora waited for the call to cut off before turning to her brother with a smirk on her face. ¡°Easy to fool those guys,¡± she said before dropping her phone dramatically onto herp.


    ¡°And you are sure this would work¡±


    ¡°A hundred percent¡± Aurora said tapping on the car and gesturing for him to drive away.


    ¡°This would cost you extra money,¡± Carlos said trying to push his luck.


    ¡°I am ready to spend more as long as the job gets done¡±


    ¡°Okay then¡± Carlos said setting the car to drive.


    As they got to the house Aurora received a message from Chole containing the time and venue, surprisingly enough the venue that Chole had chosen was off the main road so it was quite closed off, it would be an easier spot for her.


    ¡°These fools making my work easier¡± Aurora snorted as she went to open her door and get inside. She sent the details to her brother and his men.


    ¡°Kieran,¡± she said as though he was standing in front of her.


    ¡°Hold on a bit more for me, you will be mine soon enough¡±

 C

    ¡°You could have told her you want to spend the weekend with your boyfriend¡± Kieran grumbled as Arabe put on her lip balm.


    ¡°I spend all week with you I have to have time to be with friends¡± Arabe responded looking at him from the mirror she sat in front of.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to spend more time with me? So I am the only one who feels that way?¡± he mumbled to himself.


    She spun on the chair so she could face him. ¡°I want to spend my whole time with you but that¡¯s impossible, I would meet her for a few hours and I would be back home¡±


    Kieran knew that she had to have her own life and he was not one to get clingy but with her everything was different.


    ¡°I thought we would get to go on the date we couldn¡¯t go on yesterday,¡± he said and she shook her head.


    ¡°I thought so too but Chole has never asked me to hang out before so I just thought of seeing her and thening back home¡± Arabe exined


    ¡°Would you be home early?¡± Kieran asked. He had no choice but to ept because it was obvious she was not ready to change her mind.


    ¡°Of course¡±


    ¡°How many hours would you be out for?¡± he asked standing to go stand behind her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± she said shrugging. ¡°Maximum three¡± she added when she saw the expression on his face.


    His face rxed when he heard her speak. ¡°Three hours it is or else I might be forced to go pick you up myself¡± he said and she shook her head.


    ¡°I know you would do no such thing¡± She stood up and faced him.


    ¡°I am serious¡± he said trying to keep a straight face.


    ¡°Let us n a two-day trip for next weekend¡± she suggested out of the blue.


    ¡°A trip?¡± he asked his step faltering as he took a step backwards.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to do that?¡± she asked trying to stay serious. She was going to tease him for being so flustered about going on a trip together.


    ¡°I do, it¡¯s just that I did not expect you to be the one to suggest it,¡± he said regainingposure.


    She noticed he was no longer flustered and knew it would be practically impossible for her to sessfully tease him any longer so she took a step forward and wrapped her hands around his body.


    He bent his head a bit so he could stare into her eyes. She wanted to be consumed by his eyes and at the same time she wanted to look away for the necessity of his green pool.


    ¡°I will be back soon and then we can spend the rest of the day together¡± she whispered.


    He nodded bending his head and nting a quick kiss on her lips. She smiled through the kiss and kissed him back.


    ¡°Let me walk you out¡± he said holding her hand that had dropped to her side.


    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want me to drop you off?¡± he asked her when they stood at the gate waiting for her ride. He saw the care down the road and stop in front of them.


    ¡°I am sure of it¡± she said squeezing his hands in assurance.


    ¡°Be back soon, and call me if anything is up¡±


    ¡°What could be up?¡± she asked as she slid into the car as he already opened the door.


    ¡°Don¡¯t hesitate to call me¡± he said before mming the door shut and watching the car drive into thin air.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Arabe entered the restaurant and sat by the table. The waitress came to meet her to get her order but she informed her that she was waiting for someone and would order when the person arrived.


    Arabe sat for a good thirty minutes before she put a call through to Chole. She was not picking up her call and Arabe hoped all was well. She was about to stand up when Aurora sat down opposite her.


    ¡°No need to call Chole I am here¡± she said with a sinister smile.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± Arabe asked confused. What rtionship did Chole and Aurora have for her to be bold enough to make a statement like that?


    ¡°Because Chole would not being¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Arabe asked confused. She looked around for any clues.


    ¡°It¡¯s a wonder what Kieran sees in you, you are so daft¡± Aurora let out in a taunting voice and then a sinisterugh.


    ¡°I asked Chole to set up this meeting and like a fool she believed that I wanted to apologize to you. Why should I be the one to apologize to you?¡± she asked leaning in so she could look at her.


    ¡°You were the one who came into my territory and decided that my man would be your target¡± she said smiling. ¡°And what? You want me to apologize and let you both be?¡± she asked leaning into her chair.


    Arabe sat down and crossed her legs. She was not afraid of her, what was the worst she could do? The restaurant they were in was not crowded but at least there were three men sitting at some tables away from them.


    ¡°I would give you two options, one is pretty easy¡± she said licking her lips slightly and leaning in again.


    ¡°Leave Kieran alone and go back to the hole you crawled out from¡± Aurora said and Arabe stared her down like they were in some kind of contest.


    ¡°Or?¡± Arabe finally let out trying to amuse herself by whateverical situation Aurora might have concocted in her mind.


    ¡°Or I make you leave the hard way¡±


    ¡°Be my guest then?¡± Arabe said snatching up her bag and standing up. ¡°I want to see how hard you try to separate us¡± she added before walking to the door.


    She was stopped at the door by the three men. Looking at them from a distance made her think that they were ordinary men but up close she could see the tattoos all over their arms that were exposed by the kind of shirt they wore and also the scars on their upper body.


    She gulped as she tried to pretend she was not affected by the fact that three hefty scary looking men were blocking her path.


    ¡°Excuse me¡± She let out trying to sound as confident as she could.


    ¡°Should we?¡± the smallest among them spoke and Arabe turned around to see Aurora standing a few metres away from her. She looked to the counter for help but it was empty.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Arabe screamed out feeling her legs shaking in fear.


    ¡°I gave you options and you picked this yourself¡± Aurora said taking guided steps towards her.


    ¡°Take her away¡±

 CI

    Arabe felt her head throbbing, she tried to open her eyes but they felt heavy. She touched around her and the surface felt cold piercing through her clothes. She forced her eyes open and looked around.


    She struggled to sit upright and looked around her. The room she was in was empty with only an iron bed frame some meters away from her. She held her wrist as she winced in pain. Her mind began to wander as she tried to focus on why she was there.


    Thest thing she could recollect was that she had an unexpected meeting with Aurora and she had been speaking gibberish. Her eyesnded on her feet which were tied together with a wire rope. She tried to pry through it with her hands but she could not.


    She tried to stand on her feet but it seemed like nothing was working. She heard the metal door a few meters in front of the bed squeak open. Aurora entered and stood with her hands across her chest. The three men from the restaurant stood behind her.


    ¡°You are finally awake?¡± Aurora said in a mocking voice. ¡°I was almost rushing you to the hospital because I thought you were dead¡± she continued trying to make light of the situation.


    ¡°Why am I here?¡± Arabe let out.


    ¡°Oh, you don¡¯t know?¡± Aurora asked dropping her hands to her side and walking cautiously towards her.


    ¡°What are you trying to pull off by doing this?¡± Arabe let out a scream.


    ¡°How dare you scream?¡± the littlest man among the three asked walking briskly towards her. He was stopped by the stretched hand of Aurora in her direction. His steps faltered and he stood still.


    Aurora took hastened steps and came to her front. She bent down to her level and held her face in her hand. ¡°I have to do all I can to be with Kieran¡±


    ¡°Is that why you kidnapped me?¡± Arabe barked feeling ufortable with the wire rope on her ankles.


    ¡°Oh don¡¯t act that way, you would make me seem like a bad person¡± Arabe could not believe those wordse from her mouth.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to be called a bad person? But you go as far as to kidnap me?¡± Arabe scoffed. ¡°You are a clown¡± Arabe barely got all the words out her mouth when Auroranded her a p across the face.


    ¡°I gave you the choice and you chose this so I don¡¯t want to hear it,¡± Aurora said and stood to her feet.


    ¡°You are going to pay for this¡± Arabe said and Auroraughed standing to her feet.


    ¡°Darling this isn¡¯t a book or movie¡± Aurora said before letting out a sinisterugh and walking away. She stopped at the door and turned to Arabe. ¡°I would leave you in the gentle care of these gentlemen¡± She turned and left the room.


    ¡°How dare you¡± Arabe screamed and was hit in the stomach.


    ¡°We don¡¯t scream here,¡± one of the men said before they began to pounce on her with their fists.


    Kieran nced at the clock for the nth time in thirty minutes. It had been four hours since Arabe left the house. He was worried because she was not responding to all his texts, even though she was reading them.


    He decided to call her. He had been trying to respect her privacy so he would not seem to be clingy to her. He wanted her to befortable but was getting worried already since she knew not a single ce in the city.


    ¡°She is with Chole, Chole is almost like an indigene¡± Kieran whispered to himself. He had been trying to hold himself back. He tapped his phone furiously and mmed the phone to his ears.


    The line went through but no one picked. He furrowed his eyebrows together and called her back. This time the call did not connect and her phone was now switched off.


    ¡°She might be out of battery¡± Kieran whispered to himself. He was trying to not make a scene out of the situation but for some very strange reason, he was notfortable at all.


    ¡°I am not being clingy, I would just call Chole and ask to speak with her it would take only a minute¡± he nodded as he spoke to himself. ¡°This is not being clingy one bit¡± he tried to convince himself further.


    ¡°Hello, Kieran?¡± Chole¡¯s cool voice rang through the air. She wondered why he was calling her on a Sunday afternoon.


    ¡°Yeah Chole, I know it¡¯s a girl¡¯s day out but I just want to speak with Arabe for a split second, her phone is unreachable seems like it is out of battery¡± Kieran rambled and then stopped himself.


    ¡°Arabe? I am not with her¡± Chole said confused as to why he was calling her.


    ¡°She left already?¡± Kieran asked. Maybe she was already on her way home.


    ¡°Left where?¡± Chole asked and then her mind finally remembered that she had been the one who helped Arabe and Aurora see secretly.


    ¡°Did she not go to see you?¡± Kieran asked when he heard the uncertainty in her voice.


    ¡°We were supposed to meet today but¡­.¡± Chole trailed off. She was not sure if she should tell Kieran since Aurora had begged her to keep it a secret.


    ¡°Is something up?¡± Kieran asked. Chole sighed, she knew it would be quite difficult to y dumb since she was directly associated with the situation.


    ¡°Aurora had begged me to help meet her, she was supposed to be home by now¡± Chole mumbled the second statement to herself but Kieran was able to make out what she was saying.


    ¡°Aurora?¡± Kieran asked as she felt his heart sink and he could not tell the reason.


    ¡°Yeah she said something about apologizing to her and I helped them meet¡± Chole continued.


    ¡°What the fuck¡± Kieran almost said in a scream. He did not say anything more before he cut off the call.


    Aurora¡¯s line did not go off before she picked up, it was obvious she was waiting for his call.


    ¡°Took you long enough to call¡±

 CII

    Kieran felt his heart sink to the ground, judging from her tone it was obvious that she had something to do with the disappearance of Arabe. There was no way that she would just go missing in action for such a long time.


    Kieran squared his jaw as he tried to force words out of his mouth. ¡°Where is she?¡± he asked.


    She let out a disgruntled sound from her lips and pursed her lips together. ¡°No pleasantries? I see you want to get straight into business?¡± she asked before letting out a dryugh.


    ¡°Where is she?¡± Kieran let out in a scream.


    ¡°Oh my, that scared me. You should be nicer if you want to get me to talk¡± she said teasing him. She liked that he had no choice but to speak to her now.


    She had to get the most out of it, she was going to make him grovel and beg just like she had been doing in the past. He might love Arabe but she had only loved him all her life.


    He was her first love and she wanted it to remain that way. She always had fantasies of her marrying her first love. Although she had been in multiple rtionships before she had never felt the kinds of emotions she felt when it came to Kieran.


    ¡°Where is she?¡± Kieran asked this time trying his best to keep his emotions in check. It was obvious that she was not going to tell him easily and she would keep poking at him. He closed his eyes and tried to steady his breathing, she was not going to win the emotional game today.


    ¡°Somewhere¡±


    ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°I would tell¡­¡±


    ¡°When?¡± he asked cutting her off before she could let out any more words.


    ¡°Later, don¡¯t you think we need to talk about ourselves first?¡± Aurora asked.


    ¡°We have nothing inmon, we have no rtionship at all¡± Kieran let out bitterly.


    ¡°I would be wiser with my words if I were you¡± Aurora said letting out a sound to annoy him.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I mean it¡¯s just that your girlfriend happens to be in my care and if you decide to go against me I can take out my anger on her¡±


    ¡°Aurora, if you darey a finger on her I would make sure to break off your fingers in a way you would never be able to use them again¡±


    ¡°Those threats won¡¯t work on me¡± she added with a sinisterugh. ¡°If I can¡¯t have you how dare any woman dream of having you instead?¡± she added.


    ¡°Aurora please just let her go¡±


    ¡°Never,¡± she screamed and both sides went silent.


    ¡°I will call youter, maybe you will have been able to get your thoughts sorted out and then we can talk about us and our future¡±


    Aurora cut off the call before Kieran could say anything. He dropped his hand to his side and used his free hand to roam his hair in annoyance.


    ¡°What is going on?¡±


    Kieran turned around to see his father standing there, judging from his facial expression it seemed like he had an idea of what was going on.


    ¡°It seems like Aurora had kidnapped Arabe¡± Kieran did not hesitate at the moment he knew he had to get all the help he could get.


    Aurora sounded crazy on the phone, it was definitely not her usual tone, she sounded like she had suddenly been possessed by a strange spirit.


    ¡°What?¡± Ethan asked taking a step back. ¡°Arabe had been kidnapped by Aurora?¡± Ethan asked his eyes darting all over the ce.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Kieran said with a nod.


    ¡°Are you sure? It can¡¯t be, aurora has always been a lovely soul, she would not hurt a fly¡± Ethan rambled.


    He had known Aurora for quite a while now and she had always been a delight to be around. She didn¡¯t seem like someone who would do anything of that magnitude.


    ¡°I just got off the call with her. It is certain that she is with Arabe, she had tricked Arabe into going out with her by using a coworker and now she had Arabe with her¡± Kieran did not realize that he was repeating himself.


    ¡°We¡¯ll have you called the police?¡± Ethan asked fumbling with his pocket to get out his phone. ¡°What could make her do something as horrible as that?¡± Ethan asked as he finally got his phone out.


    ¡°Because¡­ she said that because I am going out with Arabe instead of her¡±


    ¡°Are you sure she is not just pulling your legs?¡± Ethan asked. The emergency number he had tapped in still disying on his phone screen. He was going to call them but wanted to be sure it was serious enough to make a call.


    ¡°No, she is not,¡± Kieran said. As he spoke he felt his heart wrench in his chest he wanted to scream out loud, match to wherever she was and then proceed to rescue Arabe.


    ¡°Hello,¡± Ethan said to the phone without a word, Kieran zoned out as his mind began to map out ces they could be.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start from where she wasst seen, I am sure we will be able to figure something out¡± Ethan said putting his hand on his son¡¯s shoulders.


    ¡°Okay then¡±


    Kieran called Chole and she gave him the name of the restaurant they were to meet. Kieran made sure to let her know that Aurora might have sessfully kidnapped Arabe. Chole felt so bad because there was no way the n would have seen the light of day if she had not unconsciously aided it.


    ¡°I would get the car out¡± Kieran said going out and Ethan following behind.


    With each step he took he hoped to all the deities that she was fine and that he would be able to locate her soon enough. He wished he had insisted that she did not go anyway. His gut feelings were a hundred percent correct about the situation and it made him feel worse.


    ¡°Arabe please be fine¡±Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.

 CIII

    Kieran met the waitress who was in the restaurant. She insisted that no one was taken forcefully from the ce.


    ¡°Have you seen her?¡± Kieran asked pushing his phone to her face.


    ¡°Yeah she came in here today, she sat at that table for a while before another woman joined her and they left together¡± the quirky waitress said.


    She was hoping that she was doing good with her lies, Aurora had tipped her so heavily to keep it a secret that someone had been abducted in her presence. She had promised a greater reward if she did well.


    The girl needed the money, the patronage at her workce was low and she was on the verge of losing her job due to the decision by the owner to close down the restaurant and sell it. She had bills and debt to settle and Aurora was willing to pay.


    ¡°Can we check your cameras? You do have some right?¡±


    The girl gulped, she had to be smart about it, if she allowed them to see the CCTV then she would be exposed and she would lose the opportunity to get more money, she had to stall for the time being and then get her money before disappearing into thin air.


    ¡°Do you have a warrant?¡± she asked leaning in trying to act bold.


    ¡°No, we don¡¯t¡± Kieran stuttered. This was the first of its kind, he was stuttering. He was usually the body and confident one in the room, he was always ten reasons why others stuttered, how could a young woman make him stutter? Looking at her face he was sure she was around the same age as Arabe.


    ¡°Thene back when you have a warrant with you and possibly a police officer with you¡± she added. She just had to work a bit more and they would be out of their hair.


    ¡°Do we really need a warrant to look at it? Can¡¯t you just show it to us? We won¡¯t be making a copy of anything we just want to have a look at it¡± Kieran said in a rushed manner.


    ¡°It¡¯s private property so you do need a warrant¡± Kieran sighed and leaned into the counter.


    ¡°I agree that I might need a warrant but it¡¯s urgent, it might be toote by the time we get a police warrant to see the camera, something bad might have happened to her,¡± Kieran said.


    The girl looked down at her feet, his worn-out sneakers staring back at her. She would be able to change those sneakers and buy a few extra needed things if she just kept her mouth shut. That¡¯s all she had to do. She was pitful enough, she did not have any energy in her to pity anyone else.


    ¡°I am sorry but you can only get cooperation from my boss if youe with a warrant¡± She pursed her lips and drew herself back from the counter.


    ¡°If you would not be ordering anything then I guess you can take your leave now¡±


    Kieran felt a bit bad for taking up her time so he ordered something to take out with him. He left determined to get answers by all means so he went to the nearest station in the area.


    The girl watched Kieran and Ethan leave the ce before she put a call through to Aurora. Aurora did not pick up so she kept calling, she knew she would give in and pick up if she was persistent.


    She had to report to her and demand the money she was promised so she could be out of the situation as quickly as possible. It was bing messy and she did not want to be a part of it anymore.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I say I would be the one to contact you?¡± Aurora barked at the phone as she picked up the call.


    ¡°You did but I felt like this was too important to wait for you to call,¡± the girl said slowly and silently. The restaurant was empty but she had to be careful in case someone heard.


    ¡°What is it? Let¡¯s hear it¡± Aurora said with an eye roll. She had been discussing with the men when her persistent calls came through.


    ¡°A man came here¡±


    ¡°Just as I said¡±


    ¡°Well two men but only one did the talking¡±


    ¡°Two men?¡±


    ¡°Yes, one older one and a younger one but not too young¡± the girl continued.


    ¡°And?¡± Aurora asked not letting her get distracted by what was not important.


    ¡°Well, they requested to see the CCTV but I managed to turn them away¡±


    ¡°So what¡¯s so important to report?¡± Aurora asked. She could not believe this naive little girl had disturbed her so much only to say something like this.


    ¡°They would be back, I am sure of it, I saw it in the eyes of the man while he spoke, he would do everything in his power to check the CCTV¡±


    ¡°So?¡± Aurora let out dryly. She was not interested in the conversation anymore but she wanted to see where the girl was taking it to


    ¡°You should pay me quickly so I can help you either erase it or destroy it and disappear¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t do any of that¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Show it to them if they want to see, why would you hide it?¡± Aurora asked. She knew they couldn¡¯t track her by watching the video.


    She could not believe how naive young people were. Did she actually believe that she would get more money just because she said so?


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You want me to pay you more?¡± Aurora let out in a sinister tone. ¡°More? For what? What have you done to require more money? Show them the footage, I don¡¯t care¡± She said before cutting off the call.


    The girl took the phone from her ears and stared at it in silence. She looked down at it unable toprehend what had just happened. She took the card that Kieran had dropped that was still sitting on the counter.


    As she punched his number on her phone she thought about how foolish and thoughtless she had been. She should have helped out at first.


    ¡°Hello¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Hello,¡± she said after much hesitation.


    ¡°Who is this?¡± Kieran sounded uneasy like the caller was holding to the call line preventing him from doing other things.


    ¡°This is the waitress from the restaurant¡± she let out.


    ¡°Oh¡±


    ¡°You can check the footage, I checked with my boss and he said it was okay¡± she lied.


    ¡°Oh, thank you, I will be there soon,¡± he said.


    ¡°Wait¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Can you pay me to check it?¡±

 CIV

    Kieran did not mind the request of the girl as he ran out of the police station into his car leaving his dad behind. He would do anything to make sure that Arabe was okay and with him at that very moment.


    ¡°You are here already?¡± the girl asked as she watched him burst through the door to meet the still-empty restaurant.


    ¡°Where is it?¡± Kieran asked ignoring any words she was about to say.


    ¡°How much would you be willing to offer?¡± she asked pushing herself from the counter she had been resting and then going through the small door to be in the same space with him.


    ¡°How much do you want?¡± he asked.


    She was taken aback by his reply. She knew that she sounded shallow and did not want him to think that way of her so she felt the need to exin properly.


    ¡°It¡¯s not because I am selfish or greedy¡± she murmured.


    ¡°What?¡± Kieran asked. His eyebrow furrowed as he felt pressed for time. He had no time for chitchat with her. She should be showing him the footage and not telling tales. He was only enduring her since she was about to help him otherwise he would have ignored her.


    She pointed to her feet and then looked up at him. ¡°I have worn those sneakers for five years now¡± she continued before looking up to meet his eyes.


    ¡°I am knee-deep in debt and it¡¯s annoying. When thatdy promised to give me money, I thought it was finally my way out of the situation¡± she continued with a weary smile.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I did that, it¡¯s not because I am wicked or greedy I just wanted a way out of this hell¡±


    ¡°I am not judging you¡± Kieran said taking a step forward. ¡°I will give you what you ask but I just ask that you help me now, I want to see the video so I can know what to do¡±


    ¡°Here,¡± the girl said silently pointing him toward the door that had Staff Only written boldly on it. Kieran pushed himself to catch up with her and was soon sitting in the room watching the way Aurora and two men forced Arabe out of the restaurant.


    ¡°Are there any cameras outside?¡± Kieran turned to her.


    ¡°Yes¡± she said navigating her way to the outside camera so he could watch it. He gasped as he saw the car. He took down the number te and hurried out of the seat into the main restaurant.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Are you just going to leave?¡± she asked when she noticed he was almost out the door. She let out a frustratedugh and ran her hand through her hair.


    ¡°Why is everyone taking me for a fool¡±


    ¡°How much do you want?¡± Kieran cut her off.


    ¡°Three hundred,¡± she said and felt a pang of guilt struck her chest.


    ¡°You have my number why don¡¯t you forward your ount number to me and I can make a transfer on my out¡± Kieran said.


    She looked at him and nodded. She sent the details immediately and a few secondster when he was out the door her phone rang with the alert.


    Kieran presented the number te to the police and they searched the car, the car of course was a stolen one so there was no way of tracking Aurora. The officer who took up the case tried to assure Kieran.


    ¡°We will track them down soon. We know who is responsible for the kidnapping and we also know what car had been used¡± the officer said to Kieran.


    ¡°Do we have to wait for any of them to show up? Can¡¯t we do something else? Maybe track them by phone?¡±


    ¡°We can but we don¡¯t want to go by that route yet¡±


    ¡°What if something happens to her while we wait?¡± Kieran was worried. ¡°She has a great grudge against the victim¡±


    ¡°I would put a request to my superiors to see if they would let us track her down that way. But I need you to be sure that she is the kidnapper¡±


    ¡°I am sure, when you get a warrant we can check the CCTV at the site of the kidnapping¡± Kieran responded.


    He wished the officers would stop moving at a snail¡¯s pace. They were being awfullyfortable. He was worried, who knew what Arabe might be going through at that very time?


    ¡°I will give you a call once everything is sorted out¡±


    Kieran was sure he could not wait for them to do their own thing, he did not know who to call aside Ryder. He did not know if Ryder would be of any help but he was as helpless as he could be.


    ¡°What do I owe the pleasure of hearing your voice on a weekend?¡± Ryder answered the call.


    ¡°Arabe had been kidnapped,¡± Kieran said. He had no reason to beat around the bush with pleasantries.


    ¡°What?¡± a squeaky voice came out of Ryder¡¯s mouth before he could control it.


    ¡°By Aurora¡± Kieran went on to drip the entire information on him at once.


    ¡°Kieran I don¡¯t want you to make assumptions about things like that just because you are pissed at Aurora. How can you think she would do something like that?¡±


    ¡°I did not think about it on my own, she called me to confess to the crime and then also I saw the video of her and two men carrying Arabe away¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Are you an aplice?¡± Kieran let out in anger. Ryder might want to show sympathy but why did she need sympathy when she was bold enough to kidnap someone?


    ¡°Of course not, why would you say something like that?¡± Ryder was hurt.


    ¡°Then why do you keep defending her?¡±


    ¡°I am not defending her, I am just giving her the benefit of the doubt¡±


    ¡°Maybe you should call her yourself so your questions can be answered¡±


    ¡°I will call her but I am on my way right now to meet you¡± Ryder said. Kieran heard shuffling in the background and the doors shutting. ¡°Where are you?¡±


    Kieran exined to Ryder and he was out the door and off the call with Kieran as he tried to get on a call with Aurora.


    1

 CV

    ¡°Ryder, did Kierane running to you?¡± Aurora asked with a taunting tone over the line.


    ¡°Aurora what you are doing is wrong and can give you jail time,¡± Ryder said calmly.


    ¡°Oh please, you think I haven¡¯t thought of that before I decided to do this?¡± she scoffed and her tone told him that she thought he sounded stupid for asking her that question. ¡°But now that you mention it I feel like I need to leave a scar on her, if I would be going to jail I should at least make it worth it¡± she added.


    Ryder was d that his phone was not on speakerphone, Kieran would lose it as he was the one driving them. ¡°Aurora¡± Ryder let out breathlessly.


    Aurora had never shown any of the tendencies she was disying so it was hard to say how far she would go. ¡°Doing this won¡¯t make Kierane to you¡± Ryder added. Threatening and screaming at her would not solve the problem at hand. It might even anger her more to do something she was not nning to do in the first ce.


    ¡°Oh no problem, I do not mind him noting to me¡± she said and immediately did not make sense to Ryder again. Was her goal not to get Kieran on her side? Was her reason for doing this so baseless? Was this fun for her?


    ¡°Then why are you doing this?¡± Ryder asked ensuring that his confusion was evident in his tone.


    ¡°If I can not have him why does anyone deserve to have him?¡± she asked and she felt tears drop from her eyes. ¡°I have spent thest few years trying to be with him, I haveforted him when he felt sad, I have drank with him and taken so much care of him¡± she continued.


    The line fell silent as Ryder had no answer to what she was saying. She had poured her entire existence into the life of Kieran but he had continually told her how wrong it was it always felt like he was nagging and talking for no reason all the time.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    ¡°His mom approved of me so why is he doing this to me?¡± she screamed startling him.


    ¡°Arabe? I would have had no problem with her if she was not associated with him. She is such a sweet soul but she dared to go ahead and fall in love with him? Not on my watch¡± she finished and took a deep breath to steady herself.


    ¡°How is one supposed to control the heart?¡± Ryder muttered. ¡°You were never able to control and stop your heart from loving him after all these years and you still expect someone else to change?¡±


    ¡°How could not even look at me once?¡± she sobbed.


    ¡°I understand, but you don¡¯t want to do this¡± Ryder said trying to drive it to her telling them where she was. They needed to find her and rescue Arabe before it was toote.


    ¡°I would not be telling you where we are, if you are that curious find us yourself,¡± she said before Ryder could say anything. The line beeped dead causing him to sit there in confusion watching the road before them.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Kieran asked as he stopped at the exit with his light going on and off. it was already getting sote and now he was panicking so much he knew it was time to let everyone know what was going on. He had believed that he would have been able to take care of the situation without having to involve anybody else but Aurora seemed good at this kind of game it was hard to believe this was her first time.


    ¡°She cut off the call and I fear for the things she might do to Arabe¡± Ryder said before adding ¡°I do not mean to create fear but she was saying so many crazy things it was difficult to ignore¡± he added.


    ¡°Where could she be?¡± Kieran asked mming his fist on the steering wheel in annoyance. He wished Arabe had listened to him and stayed away from her, he could not even me her when he wanted to because she was tricked into going there in the first ce. ¡°She needs to use her meds¡± Kieran whispered before lifting his head and meeting Ryder¡¯s eyes which were constant on him.


    ¡°What do we do?¡± Kieran continued in a murmur before closing his eyes as though that would let him think better.


    ¡°Let me try calling Kim, maybe she knows something about this,¡± Ryder said tapping away on his phone. Kieran under normal circumstances would have asked why Ryder had her number but he was desperate all those worries went away in a heartbeat.


    Rydrr exined the situation to Kim as soon as she picked and she promised to get back to them after trying her best to find something out. She had stayed friends with Aurora but she had only used her to get things for herself. She had lied at a point that she was in a rtionship with Kieran and even though Kim did not know what to do with the information she was happy for her friend that she finally picked up her mess after a long time.


    Kimberly had brutally broken up with Kieran when Aurota had constantly made it a habit to be all in their business. As much as she loved Kieran she could not stand Aurora. Not wanting to be that girl who abandons her friends because of a man she abandoned her rtionship instead. Hearing what she was doing now and the situation she had forcefully put her it was obvious that Aurora had always been the problem.


    ¡°I have got her location but you have to let mee with you¡± Kim said after a long while. Ryder had convinced Kieran to let them wait it out and wait on Kim and she had been able to get the ce.


    They drove by her house even though they had to make a U-turn in the middle of the street. They picked her up and she began directing them to the ce Aurora had told her.


    ¡°How did you get this information from her?¡± Ryder asked curious as to how she was able to get through to her.


    ¡°I just asked her to let us meet for dinner and she went on and on about her achievement. The information basically fell into myps¡± Kim said in a bragging tone. She deserved to brag anyway.


    ¡°Thank you¡± Kieran said and those were his first words since she got into the car. He was looking at her from the mirror with a sad expression on her face.


    ¡°Buy me dinner to thank me when she is safe¡±


    ¡°I will¡±

 CVII

    Ryder called the police and gave them the location that Kimberly had given to them hoping that it was the right location. Kim was sure of it so Ryder and Kieran had no choice but to believe them as that was the only ray of hope that had appeared since morning.


    They stayed a distance from the abandoned warehouse out of town. ¡°Our first thought should have been to check abandoned buildings¡± Ryder said as Kieran brought the humming car to silence.


    ¡°Right?¡±


    ¡°That would have taken us all day¡± Kieran replied.


    ¡°What?¡± Both Ryder and Kim asked with confusion.


    ¡°There are at least a hundred abandoned buildings around the city, how would we have known the one to check?¡± Kieran asked.


    ¡°We might gotten it on our first try¡± Kim repliedying her head on the headrest. Since they wanted to ensure the safety of everyone they had decided to wait on the police before bursting in since no one knew what Aurra was capable of doing.


    ¡°The probability of that happening..¡±


    ¡°Is not your business, I cannot believe you are still going on and on about logic when your girlfriend is being held hostage by someone who wants to hurt her. How is your mind working now?¡± Kim asked shocked he was not all over the ce by now.


    A normal human would have been trying to put their mind at ease and showed signs of fear but he was so coordinated that he even drove all the way here. ¡°Aren¡¯t you scared?¡± Kim asked wondering. She could not help but ask, was his love not strong enough for him to be worried about her?


    ¡°Would I be here if I wasn¡¯t?¡± he asked his eyes darting all around the yard around the building standing a few meters from them. He wanted to check for any suspicious movement so he could report it.


    ¡°You do not seem like someone who is suffering¡± she added and then gave him a one-sided short smile when he turned to face her.


    ¡°Overreacting and acting out of proportion would not save her¡±


    ¡°And logic would?¡± Kim asked and he nodded. ¡°Oh my gosh, I can not believe you, you are still the same, nothing changed¡± she added before looking out the window by her side. Some cars pulled up to them silently and they were all d that the police had listened to them and came silently without a siren.


    Kim had told Ryder to tell the police toe that way because sounding a loud rm could trigger the kidnappers and cause them to do something to her and that might not be good for them. Kieran came down from the car to greet them.


    ¡°He seems to be handling it well,¡± Kimberly said as soon as he was out of hearing.


    ¡°You know him, he turns to logic before emotions. I am sure emotions wouldeter¡± Ryder responded.


    ¡°Is he happy these days?¡± she asked looking at him as he spoke with the officer.


    ¡°Seems like it¡±


    ¡°Then I guess that is okay¡±


    Kim and Ryder got down of the car and followed the cops who had strategized to surround the building and already had a n to get Arabe out of the building safely. By the time they busted into the building, they were able to subdue the two men blocking the path to the door.


    They got to Aurora and put her in handcuffs before taking her down to meet Kim, Ryder and Kieran standing there.


    ¡°What of Arabe?¡± Kieran asked trying to get into the building.


    ¡°She would be done shortly so just wait¡± the officer guarding the door said. ¡°You can not go in¡± the officer added when he tried to push his way in through the doors.


    ¡°Kim you did this?¡± she asked with a gasp Aurora screamed as she saw them standing there.


    ¡°Yes but I did it for you¡± Kim said with a smile stepping closer to her.


    ¡°For my sake? you ruined my entire n even though I confided in you¡± she continued screaming.


    ¡°I had to ruin your n and shorten your sentence. I am sure if you beg well enough for forgiveness you would not be sued¡± Kimberly said before ncing at Kieran who was standing at the back there.


    ¡°I will never beg because I nevermitted any crime¡± Aurora said screaming so much that everyone thought that the veins on her face might pop.


    ¡°Good, don¡¯t beg because I do not intend to settle and I hope you get the maximum punishment for your crime¡± Kieran said holding back his anger.


    He told himself over and over again that his mom had taught him never to hit girls and that he should do the right thing because hearing her defend herself seemed like she was pushing him to the end of the stick and forcing him to act action against her.


    ¡°I did nothing wrong¡± she screamed as the police took her away.


    Soon an ambnce came around and a few momentster Arabe was carried out of the building on a stretcher with her face badly injured. ¡°Oh my god,¡± Kieran said going to the side of the stretcher and walking alongside it.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What happened? Was she beaten?¡± Kieran asked as they transferred her to the back of the ambnce.


    ¡°We will need her guardian toe with us to the hospital;¡± one of the paramedics said and Kieran was into the ambnce faster than the speed of light. He threw the key to the car at Ryder and hoped he would do whatever he wanted to do with it.


    Arabe was barely conscious and kept driving in and out of consciousness until they got to the hospital. Now that Kieran thought the worst was over he sent a message to his mom not having the time to think of the time zone difference. He exined fully everything that had happened before attaching a picture of Arabe.


    He was sure his mom would do justice to delivering the news in a good way to her mom. He went back to the room where they had transferred her after emergency treatment. The doctor had treated all external wounds and told her to rest a bit before she went for tests to ensure everything was okay.


    ¡°You are awake?¡±

 CVIII

    ¡°Kieran¡± she let out with tears flowing from her eyes.


    Kieran rushed to her side and held her to himself stroking her head as tears poured from her eyes. ¡°It is all over now¡± he said multiple times it almost took the tune of a song.


    ¡°I was so afraid¡± she whispered into his chest.


    ¡°I am so sorry I did not find you earlier¡± Kieran said feeling a bit down to see her like that. ¡°Where does it hurt?¡± he asked pulling her away by the shoulders and then bending down to stare into her eyes.


    ¡°All over¡± she responded groaning and pushing herself back to hold him.


    She had been so afraid especially when the men hit her without thinking about it, she was d however that it hade to an end now. She sighed in his chest and closed her eyes in them. She knew it was because of Kieran this happened to her but how could she me him? It was not his fault at the same time, Aurora had been crazy and could not learn to ept no as an answer and this was the result.


    They stayed glued together for a moment before pulling apart, Kieran went on to find the doctor and Arabe sat still on the bed. She wondered if there was bad luck following her around, being bullied at school and then at work was a different kind of fate. She was grateful that she was saved now anyway.


    Kieran came back with a doctor and nurse who checked her vitals and wrote down a bunch of tests asking her to get them done. He exined to Kieran what to do and when to go for the test. Kieran followed the instructions and wheeled her to theb.


    ¡°Your mom is aware now,¡± Kieran said. She had to know so she was not flustered when her mom called her worried.


    ¡°You told her?¡± Arabe asked quietly as they approached the door of theb.


    ¡°Yes but only when we found you, I think she at least deserves to know, I have not told them the reason yet because I think you should tell them yourself,¡± Kieran said. He was not afraid to tell them the reason but he wanted Arabe to be the one bearing the news to them anyway.


    The attendant did not let Kieran go in with them so he had to wait outside theb for them to finish the tests they wanted to do on her. At that time he updated his worried father who had been checking in constantly via message to make sure she was fine. Ethan promised toe in the next day to see her.


    ¡°Hello, Kieran what did you mean by the text message?¡± Everly said over the phone. Kieran knew that she had just seen the message because if she had seen it before now she would have called.


    ¡°Arabe was kidnapped but we have found her now and she is at the hospital getting treated so there is nothing to worry about¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°There is a lot to worry about, we will all be leaving soon, so see you soon¡± The line dropped dead and Kieran could not stop them froming back.


    ¡°But she is doing okay¡± he muttered to the dead phone


    ¡°Seems like your family ising¡± Kieran said as he led Arabe out of theb to her room.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    ¡°Coming here? Why?¡± she said whipping her head around trying to check his face.


    ¡°Stay still or you¡¯ll hurt your neck¡± he said helping her turn her neck back so she could face front.


    ¡°Why?¡± she asked wondering why her mother would take the journey out of her just because of a few bruises.


    ¡°Maybe she is worried?¡± Kieran said with a teasing voice.


    ¡°Are you teasing me?¡± she asked pressing her lips together. He made a sound showing that he was affirming her statement. ¡°I do not think now is the time to do that¡± she replied.


    ¡°Oh please there is always a time for teasing¡± he said.


    They were soon in the room, he helped her to the bed and went out to get something for her to eat so she could use her medications. By the time he got back from the convenience store down in the hospital basement, she was lying down on the bed.


    ¡°Are you sleeping?¡± Kieran asked as he went to the head of the bed pushing the locks of hair away from her face.


    ¡°Do you want toy down with me?¡± she asked tapping the space beside her.


    ¡°You¡¯ve gotten bolder?¡± he asked shocked at her request. She was one who would shy away if he had requested that from her.


    ¡°I guess the sayings are true, if one is faced with death they receive more courage than they have ever had¡± she replied opening one eye to look at him.


    ¡°But don¡¯t you think you are being too bold?¡± he asked and she struggled to shake her head but the pain surging through her neck stopped her. If for one thing, she was d that her injuries were not as fatal as she thought they would be. At least now, none of her family would worry about it as much as it would be if she was badly injured.


    ¡°Is there such a thing as too bold?¡± she asked and he shook his head.


    ¡°I am sorry,¡± he said before she could add anything.


    ¡°Why are you sorry?¡± she asked even though she knew the reason. She did not me him but it was nice to see him taking responsibility for what happened. If he had note on her they would not be in a rtionship and Aurora would have had no reason toe onto her, so it was partially his fault but she was also at fault.


    If she had refused him then she would not have ended up that way with him, however, she could not control how she felt for him and somehow could understand Aurora even though she was wrong.


    ¡°I caused this, I should have known that Aurora was crazy and I should have done better than expose you to her just like that¡± he said. ¡°It is all my fault¡±


    ¡°It is not, she is just a crazy person¡± Arabe replied before adding. ¡°Even though she is crazy I do not want to press charges against her¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°And to that, I say no¡± Kieran responded.


    ¡°Are you telling me that we have to forgive her and let her run a rampage and risk having her do the same with you or to another person?¡± he asked. She opened her mouth to speak but words flew out of his mouth faster than she could imagine.


    ¡°I can listen to you for any other thing aside from this, we are pressing charges against her and giving her the maximum punishment she can get¡±


    ¡°And that is final¡±

 HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT

    Heyyyyy


    I am so excited to write this after a long time and I hope you are too.


    I am also so grateful for themunity of readers that I get here on this tform. Having Readers like this is such a dreame true. Thank you for loving my ideas and taking them as they are. Thank you for the corrections, especially with my grammar. If many of you notice you would see that I am improving as I try to take sses to make me write better in English. Thank you for being a great support to me and my work.


    It is because of you all that ACCIDENTALLY MARRIED became such a huge hit, I keep getting offers to have the work published in so many other ces and I could not have done it without you. Sometimes I feel like a girl who had left her home for Hollywood and then suddenly became famous and began to win multiple awards¡­ and as I say this is all thanks to you.


    So I have a couple of announcements and I think now is the time to share it.


    1. I wrote book two of identally Married but unfortunately, due to the terms I had written it under it is only avable on Good Novel and can be essed there so if you want to read the love story between Jessica and Xavier¡¯s children then head on to Good Novel and Search identally Married. You do not need to read from the top just search the table of contents and head over to book Two. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    2. I have a new book and it is called LEARNING TO LOVE MR BILLIONAIRE. Please read it and then give me feedback I will be waiting to read yourments and what you think.


    3. Also if you would love to read another book of mine you can head over to Dreame and Search for the book with title  Divorced Once Married Twice. It is an original work by myself and I am so excited to be sharing it with you. I hope you can read the work and love it as you go.


    4. Do not forget to rmend my book to your friends and share it with people who you know would love to read my kinds of works.


    5. thank you for being here till now


    Thank you so much see you soon


    You can skip reading this because it is a repetition of the above.


    Heyyyyy


    I am so excited to write this after a long time and I hope you are too.


    I am also so grateful for themunity of readers that I get here on this tform. Having Readers like this is such a dreame true. Thank you for loving my ideas and taking them as they are. Thank you for the corrections, especially with my grammar. If many of you notice you would see that I am improving as I try to take sses to make me write better in English. Thank you for being a great support to me and my work.


    It is because of you all that ACCIDENTALLY MARRIED became such a huge hit, I keep getting offers to have the work published in so many other ces and I could not have done it without you. Sometimes I feel like a girl who had left her home for Hollywood and then suddenly became famous and began to win multiple awards¡­ and as I say this is all thanks to you.


    So I have a couple of announcements and I think now is the time to share it.


    1. I wrote book two of identally Married but unfortunately, due to the terms I had written it under it is only avable on Good Novel and can be essed there so if you want to read the love story between Jessica and Xavier¡¯s children then head on to Good Novel and Search identally Married. You do not need to read from the top just search the table of contents and head over to book Two. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it.


    2. I have a new book and it is called LEARNING TO LOVE MR BILLIONAIRE. Please read it and then give me feedback I will be waiting to read yourments and what you think.


    3. Also if you would love to read another book of mine you can head over to Dreame and Search for the book with title  Divorced Once Married Twice. It is an original work by myself and I am so excited to be sharing it with you. I hope you can read the work and love it as you go.


    4. Do not forget to rmend my book to your friends and share it with people who you know would love to read my kinds of works.


    5. thank you for being here till now


    Thank you so much see you soon


    You can skip reading this because it is a repetition of the above.

 CVIIII

    ¡°Hana darling,¡± Ava said as they got into the hospital room. They had not even stopped over at the house and had gone to the hospital directly.


    ¡°Mom,¡± Arabe said, sitting up on the bed and stretching out her hand so her mom could hug her from the door. Right behind Ava were Everly and Seraphina walking in as well. Everly shut the door behind her before they attracted any attention to them.


    ¡°Ane,¡± Arabe added as they walked to her. Ava went and stood beside the bed, holding Arabe in her arms, wrapping her hand across her body, and holding as if she were about to let go forever.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Let me see,¡± Ava says after letting go. She looked at her face and flinched at the sight of the injuries on her face and then touched her body to see where else she was hurt. ¡°Does it hurt badly?¡± she followed up, checking her face over and over again.


    ¡°I am fine,¡± Arabe said. She was d to see her mom, but she was worried that they had made an impromptu trip for this, and she was doing fine. She also felt bad for cutting Everly¡¯s trip in half.


    ¡°How did this happen?¡± Seraphina asked, turning to Kieran, who stood there like a statue waiting to be attended to.


    ¡°This is all my fault. I am sorry,¡± Kieran murmured.


    ¡°I am not asking you to apologize; I want to know how this happened. Who did thus?¡± Seraphina¡¯s voice was aggregated.


    ¡°And are you not concerned about me?¡± Arabe said softly, and Seraphina turned to her with a smile.


    ¡°I am.¡± Seraphina walked to the bed and held onto the hand of her sister tightly. ¡°Does it hurt?¡± she asked, and Arabe shook her head.


    ¡°I guess Kieran blew it out of proportion but I am fine and this was not his fault. I was just a victim of bad circumstances.¡± Arabe said, defending Kieran, who wanted to take the me because of something that Aurora had done.


    ¡°Blew it out of proportion? Ara, don¡¯t you dare say that,¡± Everly said, walking to the bed. Those were the first words that came out of her mouth and they sounded concerned as though he was fighting back tears from falling down her face. ¡°Look at you. I hope there are no internal injuries.¡± She turned to Kieran for an answer.


    ¡°We are yet to get a result from the doctors,¡± Kieran exined.


    ¡°How long will that take? Take me to the doctor; let me see what the holdup is,¡± Everly said. She wanted to be sure that she did not need to go into surgery, and if she did, she wanted it done as quickly as possible to avoid furtherplications.


    ¡°Everly,¡± Arabe said in a quiet voice. ¡°We just got back from theb. I am sure the hospital knows how serious it is, and they will bring the results as soon as they are ready,¡± she said, trying to stop her from going to cause a scene.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Arabe responded.


    ¡°Are you sure? Because I can go along with her,¡± Seraphina volunteered.


    ¡°I am sure I am not in any unusual pain. After getting beat up like this, it is only natural that everything hurts, but I feel better because of the medications I have been given,¡± Arabe tried to exin to ease their hearts.


    She had seen herself in the mirror, and she knew that she did not look her best at all, so that was what was worrying them. They stayed for a few minutes before Seraphina sessfully lured Kieran out of the room, iming she needed supplies and that he should help her with directions since she was bad at them even though she was an expert at directions.


    ¡°Ane?¡± Arabe said, and Seraphina came close to her.


    ¡°Do you want me to buy something for you?¡± Seraphina asked, and Arabe nodded as she gestured for her to bend her head so she could whisper in her ears.


    ¡°I know you are trying to take Kieran aside so you can grill him; I cannot stop you because of this bed, but do not grill him too much,¡± she pleaded.


    Seraphina stood up straight and watched the face of her sister as she sat in afortable chair, even though she was obviously in pain. ¡°Okay, then I will get you that,¡± she said before walking out with Kieran on her tail.


    Everly had been d that they got her a private room; at least they were all able to stay without being a nuisance to the rest of the patients in the room.


    ¡°Are you really not going to tell me what happened with you?¡± Ava asked as her daughter and Kieran were out of the room.


    ¡°I do not want you to worry,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Why should I not worry? Isn¡¯t it the job of the parent to worry about the child? Isn¡¯t it the child¡¯s job to worry the parents? When did you grow so much that you are worried about worrying me?¡± Ava asked with tears lining her eyes.


    ¡°I will tell you as soon as I am discharged,¡± Arabe said. She was not ready for both her mom and Kieran¡¯s mom to find out that they were dating, so she was going to discuss it with Kieran before she would tell them what happened. There was no way she would tell the story without mentioning that they were dating.


    ¡°But..¡± Ava wanted to protest, but then Everly¡¯s hand held hers gently and shook her head when she looked at her.


    ¡°That is fine, Ara; tell us as soon as you are discharged and you feel much better,¡± Everly said. It was obvious that she was hiding something and needed time to process it well.


    ¡°Ahh,¡± Ava eximed and agreed. ¡°It does not matter what has happened; the most important thing is that you are now fine,¡± she added.


    ¡°I am fine,¡± Arabe said with a smile on her face.

 CIX

    ¡°You and my sister?¡± Seraphina asked as they walked to the elevator.


    ¡°What?!¡± Kieran asked, startled that they had been caught easily.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I am sure I was the only one who caught on. My mom is not an expert on things like this,¡± Seraphina assured him. While she was in university, she had several rtionships, and sometimes it was like her mom was intentionally trying to act dumb not to see them, but she was truly not trying to pay attention to things like that.


    ¡°We are not trying to hide it.¡±


    ¡°But now would not be a good time to discuss your rtionship,¡± Seraphina understood. She would do the same if she were in their shoes anyway. ¡°The most important thing now is that Arabe recovers well and can go back to her daily life without anyplications,¡± she said.


    ¡°That is true,¡± Kieran added, nodding his head.


    ¡°But I need to know,¡± Seraphina said as the elevator stopped and opened and they got into it. ¡°I need to know what happened. I can not wait till you are telling the moms about it.¡±


    Kieran had wanted to try his best not to be the one to narrate the story since he was still beating himself up for allowing this to happen in the first ce. ¡°I promise not to me you.¡±


    ¡°But it is my fault,¡± Kieran said silently.


    ¡°Care to exin how you caused this? That should determine if I would ept your rtionship and stand behind you when you tell my mom.¡± Seraphina wanted to drag a bargain with him. Arabe had already sounded like she was head over heels for him, and from the way he had looked at her since they arrived, she could not deny that she saw love in his eyes as well.


    Kieran exined the situation from the top; he made sure that Seraphina was aware of how Aurora got involved with him and then Arabe. He exined how she deceived Arabe.


    ¡°I wish I had a gun; I would march straight to that Aurorady and shoot her head off, and then I would spend my life in jail without any remorse,¡± Seraphina said, clutching her hand to her side. Seraphina could not understand how it was that a woman interested in a man would rather kidnap his girlfriend than take no for an answer.


    ¡°She is in the custody of the police, and I am pushing to press full charges and that she would get the maximum sentence for her actions, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Let me guess Arabe wants to forgive her.¡± Seraphina asked.


    ¡°Yes, she is telling us to end this with a settlement of her paying off the hospital bills at least.¡±Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°That is my sister, always very kind-hearted and barely having a spine of her own. I hope you disagreed with her ridiculous request.¡±


    ¡°I did not agree; I am going to push for a full charge and maximum punishment as I am also a victim of this case.¡±


    ¡°That is good.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s taking them such a long time?¡± Ava asked as she nced at the door for the thirty-first time in the space of a minute.


    ¡°They would be back soon; why are you so worried?¡± Arabe asked as shey down in bed.


    ¡°Why shouldn¡¯t I be worried? I do not want to think about the bad luck that had been opened over my family as a result of this ident,¡± Ava said.


    ¡°Why would you say something like that? That is the kind of statement that can bring bad luck in.¡±


    Ava opened her mouth to speak but before he could say anything, a doctor walked in. Both women stood up and waited for the man to go to Arabe. ¡°How do you feel?¡± the doctor asked, checking her IV drip and then her face.


    ¡°Still in pain but not as much as before.,¡± Arabe said, staring at the doctor.


    ¡°Okay, that is good.¡±


    ¡°Doctor, what about the result of the test?¡± Ava asked when the doctor did not say anything. She was fine even if the doctor ignored her and did not say hello; she just wanted to make sure that her daughter was doing fine and she would have been okay.


    ¡°Are you her guardian?¡± the doctor asked. ¡°Is she your guardian?¡± he asked Arabe.


    ¡°Yes, doctor, this is my mom.¡±


    ¡°Then who was that man that brought you in? Your husband?¡± he asked, tilting his head. ¡°Or your boyfriend?¡± the question made Ava and Everly confused.


    ¡°He is none,¡± Everly said, trying to clear the air quickly. ¡°He is my son, and she is her daughter,¡± she added, pointing the people out.


    ¡°He is not your significant other?¡± the man asked again. Everly did not know how to act because she had wanted them to tell their parents at the same time. ¡°Oh wow, that is some serious information to unpack,¡± the doctor said with widened eyes.


    ¡°He was really worried about you, though.¡±


    ¡°Kieran?¡± Everly said, shocking herself as well. Kieran was the kind of man who showed apathy when it came to the pain of others. How was he worried about Arabe when they had always been at each other¡¯s throats since she moved here? How was he the one who called to tell and update them about the situation? How was he still there when they came and still did not leave after they came? She found it fishy but it was not something she was going to dwell on.


    ¡°They are not,¡± Everly said before anyone could say anything.


    ¡°So doctor, what does the result say?¡± Ava asked. She did not care about the rtionship, at least for now. Her major concern and worry was the state of her daughter.


    ¡°We have not gotten all the tests, and I was waiting to get them all before I came to tell her the result. Seeing that you are eager to know, from the ones we have received, we have not seen anything abnormal,¡± he exined.


    ¡°Really?¡± Ava said, a sigh of relief escaping her lips.


    ¡°Yes¡±


    ¡°That is good.¡±


    ¡°I will be back when the rest of the result is out.¡±

 CX

    When Kieran and Seraphina got back to the room, Ava told them to go home even though they all volunteered to stay and be with Arabe that night. They were all worried about her, but they knew that only one person was allowed to stay with her for the night. Kieran, though he wanted to stay, could not state a reason why he would do that, so he silently left. He drove them home, and they left for bed because of how tired they had been from the day.


    Kieran picked up his phone and fumbled with it; he wanted to speak with Arabe so badly, he missed her. ¡°Should I call her or text her?¡± he asked himself as he sat on the bed.


    Are you asleep?


    He stared at the text on his screen. While struggling with what to do, she had taken up the courage and sent him a message instead.


    No


    Want to talk over the phone?


    Isn¡¯t your mom right next to you?


    She is sleeping right now, and I want to hear your voice before I go to bed.


    Kieran felt butterflies in his stomach even though he would have argued that it was not what it was. But reading that she wanted to talk with him as badly as he wanted to warmed him so well.


    Are you sure we can talk over the phone?


    Do you want to do it or not?This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Kieran could hear the questioning tone in her text, and he pressed his lip into a line.


    I want to, of course, but if your mom catches you, what are you going to say?


    That I am talking with my boyfriend?


    Kieran felt blown away by how affectionate she was being. He loved it and he could not lie.


    Are you going to tell your mom about us?


    I thought we agreed to do it together. We tell your mom, and we tell my mom, so¡­


    He looked at the text, them going back and forth like this was not going to get them anywhere. He tapped the phone button beside her name, and the call was connected almost immediately.


    ¡°And here I was thinking you did not want to hear my voice.¡± Arabe¡¯s voice was in a whisper.


    ¡°I wanted to, but I thought we might need to be more distraught about it,¡± he said, and she let out a smallugh, looking behind her to her mom, who was sleeping soundly on the couch in the room.


    ¡°She is asleep; I know she is passed out because she had a long flight down here and did not get to rest and now has to take care of me all night, but I am fine because I had a good sleepst night and all morning,¡± she trailed off and let out a nervous chuckle. ¡°I am rambling, aren¡¯t I?¡± she asked.


    ¡°You are, but I think it is cute. I think I love hearing the sound of your voice.¡±


    ¡°Kieran?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You can not just say things like that casually,¡± she said. If she was to be drinking from a bottle, she would¡¯ve sttered the contents to the floor in amazement.


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°Because it sounds romantic.¡±


    ¡°Then prepare to hear more things I love about you.¡±


    ¡°Because I have a list.¡±


    Kieran and Arabe spoke for a long time before they finally went to bed. Ava woke up early and cleaned up before helping Arabelle to do the same. The doctor came over and checked her condition and told her that she was recovering alright.


    ¡°Hana,¡± Ava began sitting by the side of the bed. Arabe looked at her mom¡¯s face and she could tell that that was her serious face. She knew that whatever her mom was saying now meant serious business.


    ¡°Mom, that look is scaring me,¡± Arabe said, trying to water down the tense atmosphere. She wanted to feelfortable enough, even though she did not know what her mom was about to say.


    ¡°Are you still refusing to tell me what happened?¡± Ava asked, clutching her daughter¡¯s hand.


    ¡°I will tell you, but not now.¡± She was going to try her best to keep her promise, at least.


    ¡°Okay, it¡¯s no problem. I would wait until you tell me, but I have something that I want you to do for me. Are you going to do it?¡± Ava blinked her hand, going up and down her daughter¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Without knowing what it is that you want?¡±


    ¡°But..¡±


    ¡°Mom, we have spoken about this before; I can only agree to something if I know what it is. I cannot agree blindly, and then I would not be able to do it, and then you would say I am not a woman of my word. So you tell me what it is that you want me to do, and then I will think of it and let you know.¡±


    ¡°Hana, I want you to know that everything I ever did and do is for you and your sisters. You both are all I have left in life. After death snatched your father from me, I vowed to take care of you as much as I could.¡± Ava took a deep breath and stopped blinking at Arabe, who sat there wondering what her mother wanted to say.


    ¡°And when I knew that I could not do the job myself, I moved back home so I could have enough help for the three of us. When you said that you wanted to move back here, I wanted to refuse you and clip your wings,¡± she let out a little chuckle that also made Arabeugh as well.


    ¡°But I did not want you to feel like your mother was being the worst and not letting you grow, so with a heavy heart and much difficulty, I let you go.¡±


    ¡°Mom, you are saying a lot of things, but it is obvious you haven¡¯t said what you want to say yet,¡± Arabe said, taking her free hand and putting on her mom¡¯s hand with a wide eye.


    ¡°You¡¯ve seen the world in enough; why don¡¯t youe back home now?¡±


    ¡°Mom?¡±


    ¡°Trust me, it is for your good,¡± Ava said, her voice almost high-pitched. ¡°In all the years we were together, things happened, but it never happened as bad as this. You leave my side for a few months? And this happens?¡±


    ¡°Mom, I would say this and I would say it once. I am noting home.¡±

 CXI

    ¡°Hana Arabe Bishop,¡± Ava screamed.


    ¡°Mom!¡± Arabe screamed back. She had told Kieran that getting a private room instead of a shared one was a waste of money, but now that she was about to go head-to-head with her mom, she was convinced that he had spent his money wisely.


    ¡°Listen,¡± Ava said, trying to stop her shaky voice.


    ¡°Mom, me being with you and not getting hurt was not because I was with you; it was just the way life was, and now that I was away and this happened, it is because life happens. How much longer do I need to stay with you?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t mean you should stay with me; I mean you shoulde home, where protection is,¡± Ava said confidently, like she had taken extra measures to ensure that the ce was fortified.


    ¡°Home or abroad, this,¡± Arabe said, pointing to her bruised face and injured arm. ¡°This would have happened and can happen anywhere. And I told you already that I want to put myself out there as well.¡±


    ¡°I am not saying you shouldn¡¯t put yourself out there. I am just saying that you can put yourself out there while you are at home.¡±


    ¡°Mom!¡± Arabe said, trying to catch her breath.


    ¡°Hana, I just want what is best for you,¡± Ava said.


    ¡°Mom, you want me to get married, right?¡± Arabe knew that her mom had always been for her getting married and having her own family. Maybe she could use this opportunity to convince her mom to allow her to remain here.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Ava said and then pped her hand in the air. ¡°Do you have someone?¡± she whispered, trying to get closer to her.


    ¡°Yes Mom¡±


    ¡°Why hasn¡¯t hee?¡± Ava looked around as if that was what was going to make him appear in the room.


    ¡°I am going to introduce him to you as soon as I get discharged.¡± Arabe smiled because she was able to sessfully divert the attention of her mom from talking about her going home to talking about her wedding.


    ¡°Have you spoken about the wedding? You have not been here for long but you already have someone? Are you happy?¡± Ava asked the questions pouring out of her mouth.


    ¡°Mom, please calm down. You are going to have a chance to meet him, and maybe you can ask him all those questions,¡± Arabe said, and the door opened with Seraphina and Kieran walking in.


    ¡°Sera, did you know this? Ara has a boyfriend,¡± Ava said, turning to Seraphina as she walked in.


    ¡°She does?¡± Seraphina asked, trying to conceal her sister¡¯s secret. Kieran had told her that they wanted to wait till she was discharged before they told their family about it and Arabe had agreed because there was nothing wrong with that. It was better for them to take it one thing at a time.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± Ava asked shocked. She had expected that Seraphina would know something about it because of how close they were.


    ¡°That is strange news to me. Have you eaten?¡± Seraphina asked.


    ¡°Not yet¡±


    ¡°Thene over here and eat. Everly made this for us to eat,¡± Seraphina said, taking her mom from the bed to the couch.


    ¡°How are you feeling today?¡± Kieran said, standing at the foot of the bed. Arabe smiled as she could not stop the smile from overtaking her face.


    ¡°I am doing well,¡± she said; her tone was very low and shy.


    TWO WEEK LATER


    Arabe was diagnosed and was asked to take it easy. She had told Kieran that they were going to tell their parents about their rtionship today. They had spent two weeks together; it was difficult for them to be together because Ava was over her daughter like a hawk and never left her side.


    It was even difficult for them to be on the phone because Ava wanted to know. Knowing that her daughter had a man in her life, she was curious who it was and wanted to know. She was trying her best to act nonchnt about it when curiosity was killing her.


    ¡°I do hope I get to meet this mystery guy who is hiding from me before I go back in a week,¡± Ava said as they sat in the car. Everyone hade to take her back from the hospital, making it a big deal that she was kind of embarrassed at the fuss they were making.


    ¡°What mystery, man?¡± Everly asked, turning to her friend.


    ¡°Her boyfriend, the one I told you about,¡± Ava replied, and Everly nodded.


    ¡°I also cannot wait to meet him as well. I am so happy for you; you came to this city and found love.¡± Everly said it exactly. She was happy to be involved in this kind of gossip; her son always gave her nothing to work with as he was married to making good money and then, in turn, having nobody to spend the money on. ¡°Unlike some people who cannot find a decent girl,¡± Everly added, throwing shade at her son.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°Wait till they hear¡­¡± Seraphina whispered into her sister¡¯s ears. She was unable to finish the sentence anyway because Arabe drove her finger into her side.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do that,¡± Arabe whispered, and her sister nodded. Arabe looked at Kieran, who was driving the car with Ethan beside him. Their eyes caught in the mirror, and he cast her a small smile. He was d that the hide-and-seek was over now and that they were going to finally date out in the open.


    ¡°But tell me, Ara, is it not the doctor? Who can it be? Have I met him? Where did you meet him?¡± Everly asked, throwing all the questions her way.


    ¡°Mom, you are bombarding her with a lot of questions,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°Because I am curious,¡± Everly said as she looked from ce to ce, hoping that Ava and Seraphina would back her up.


    ¡°I am also curious; I just hope he is a nice guy who is a perfect fit for my little girl,¡± Ava replied.


    Ethan opened his mouth to speak and then turned to his son, who had a pleading expression on his face. He had told his father to wait till Arabe was okay before they brought up their dating to the family. He happened to find out and Ethan agreed to help his son. After all, the important thing was that Arabe got well first.


    ¡°All your worries and questions will be answered today when you finally meet him, so don¡¯t worry,¡± Arabe said, leaning into her sister¡¯s arm as she caught Kieran¡¯s eyes in the mirror again.


    ¡°We are meeting him today?¡±

 CXII

    ¡°Are we meeting him today?¡± Everly followed up with her friends¡¯s question when Arabe did not say anything.


    ¡°Yes, we are,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°And you are just telling me, I should have stayed back at home to prepare a warm meal for him instead ofing to the hospital to pick you up. I should have also taken extra care to clean the house today.¡± Kieran rolled his eyes at how extra his mom was being. He wondered how she would react when she got to know that he was the one she was making all this fuss over.


    ¡°Forget it; moreover, if he knew that you took extra care to do all those things, he would feel ufortable,¡± Arabe said.


    ¡°Is that it?¡± Everly said, biting her lip and looking out the window. ¡°Kieran, go to Hyshoo restaurant; let us get something from there since I might not be able to make any food,¡± she said out of the blue.


    ¡°Everly, why don¡¯t you calm down? You are making a big deal out of nothing,¡± Ethan said from the passenger¡¯s seat. It was the first thing he said since they got in the car.


    ¡°Calm down?¡± Ava asked. Arabe felt relieved hearing her mom talk. Her mom was supposed to be freaking out now, but she seemed to maintain herposure.


    ¡°How can we calm down?¡± Everly said. Arabe rolled her eyes, and when she looked at her sister, she was doing the same as well. Both women were about to go dramatic over this issue. Arabe felt bad that they were about to go all out and spend so much money to entertain her boyfriend when he was right there with them listening in to their ns.


    ¡°Also, I would want to get some cleaning supplies; the house is a mess,¡± Everly added, hinting that they make a stop at a store so she could buy all those things.


    ¡°Oh gosh, I can¡¯t take this anymore,¡± Arabe said, raising her head and putting it in the face of her mother. ¡°I guess I would just introduce him to you now.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ava said, looking around. Surprisingly, Everly understood without Arabe having to exin anything further.


    ¡°It is certainly not true,¡± Everly said, turning her neck so she could look at the girl.


    ¡°What is?¡± Ava asked confused.


    ¡°Her,¡± Everluy said, pointing to Everly, who was now sittingfortably with her hand on her left leg in the back seat. ¡°And him,¡± she said, pointing to Kieran in the driver¡¯s seat. ¡°Dating¡±


    ¡°Uhh, oh, you broke Everly,¡± Seraphina teased.


    ¡°What?¡± Ava screamed, her head going from side to side so she could check out the faces of both of them. ¡°Is that true, Hana?¡± she asked, finally deciding to keep her gaze on Arabe.


    ¡°Yes, Mom, we began dating about three weeks ago,¡± Arabe said. She met his eyes in the mirror, and she could hear all the unspoken words in them. He was seriously thanking her for taking the cat out of the bed and not allowing them to make unreasonable stops around to impress him.


    ¡°Sera, you do not seem shocked; did you know Alereafy?¡± Ava asked.


    ¡°Well, it was already pretty obvious,¡± Seraphina said. She could not believe that they could not see all the flirting between them.


    ¡°So it is true?¡± Everly asked.


    ¡°Of course it is.¡±


    The rest of the drive back home was. Even though Arabe did not picture them telling their families this, she was d that she had gotten it off her chest. As they entered the house, Ava called everyone into the living room. Arabe had expected a reaction from her mom, but maybe she was just shocked that she had forgotten how to react.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She was waiting for them to remind them of the age gap between them and the reasons why this wouldn¡¯t work out. She wanted to hear their reasons, even though she was just learning how to love him. He had admitted that he had a crush on her. When he went to the airport to pick her up, it was like love at first sight.


    When his mom had told him that her friend¡¯s daughter, whom he knew from his youth, wasing to stay with them, he did not know why, but for some reason, he encountered a small child and was shocked by what he had seen. He tried to suppress his emotions, using his hurt as an excuse.


    ¡°Everyone to the living room,¡± Avamanded. It was like she was the mother of the house, and the rest of them were her children.


    ¡°I¡¯ll just skip this out,¡± Ethan said, trying to remove himself from the situation.


    ¡°Everyone!¡± Ava¡¯s tone was firm, telling him that he dared not counter her instructions.


    Everyone filed into the room and sat down. Ava told Arabe and Kieran to sit down on the floor in front of them. ¡°This will make for a very good social media post,¡± Seraphina said as she sat down.


    ¡°Put your phone away,¡± Ava said, and Seraphina waved her phone in the air before dropping it at the corner table by the chair she was seated in.


    ¡°How did this happen?¡± Everly asked after they had sat for a while, and Ava did not say anything. One look at her, and it was obvious that she was trying to collect her thoughts.


    ¡°We fell in love.¡± Kieran said her question was stupid because she could see the most obvious thing in the world. Would they be there if they weren¡¯t lobe?


    ¡°Is that true, Ara?¡± Everly shifted her gaze to Arabe. Arabe licked her lip and nodded.


    ¡°But how? I leave you for barely days and you get to sleep? Or were you together and eating strangely while trying to make me think that you hate each other?¡± Everly asked, scenarios ying out in her mind.


    ¡°Mom, you have a wild imagination,¡± Kieran said.


    ¡°But no, it was not like that. I always thought Kieran to be a man I would like to be with but I could not stand his attitude and to think he was always being mean to me for no reason. Iter found out he was only doing those things because he didn¡¯t know how to express his feelings.¡±


    ¡°So what are you saying? You two are together? You want to be together?¡± Ava asked.


    ¡°I do want to be with him; I am shocked that it is possible for someone to lobe another person this much,¡± Arabe replied.


    ¡°Our baby has found love; what about you?¡± she asked, turning to Kieran.


    ¡°I want to be with her,¡± Kieran said, turning so his gaze was on Arabe.


    ¡°Forever¡±


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!