~Liam wanted to believe he'd heard her wrong because the moment Haley finished speaking, she fainted.But he wasn't a fool. She'd told him to f*ck off!Why did his love profession always end up in brutal rejection?Was this how it felt like to be hurt?It was an unbearable pain he couldn't handle. If only it was a physical pain. His heart throbbed, and he wished to just embrace her like that.However,She was unconscious in his arms and her life was in danger. If Haley hadn't arrived, only God knew what he'd do to that dumb guy. Daryl's rapid shift in character still astounded him,But the last thing he expected was the guy professing love to his wife. Liam lifted her in his arms. Her body was so light that he could barely feel anything.Had she been eating recently? Yet, she looked fresher than before. Liam found himself admiring her face, her chapped lips devoid of life. He removed the bloody bedsheet from her body, wrapping her with his jacket instead. When they got do
Shocked at Joye's words, the spoon fell off Liam's hand.Hand over his position?What kind of a ridiculous question was that?Liam threw the assistant a glare, picking up his spoon again. He shouldn't let Joye be here. He should have long sent him out. “Have I become your playmate? When did you learn to crack silly jokes?”But the expression on Joye's face told Liam otherwise.The assistant widened his eyes, blinking rapidly at him. “Don't tell me you're not aware, Sir.”Liam had already scooped another spoonful of his food, but then he dropped it. Was Joye not pulling his legs?“When did that happen?”“Just yesterday, Sir…” Joye cleared his throat, his forehead contorting into a deep frown. “I went to the company this morning and heard all the employees gossiping about it.”That his brother would become the new CEO?Who passed that ridiculous order?If it was the truth, he was supposed to be consulted about it first.It was probably just rumored.“See, Sir…” Joye brought out his
Liam turned around.His fisted hands shook and he struggled to keep them back from flying to the guy's face. Daryl stood in front of him, his face bandaged all over.It was hard to recognize him with that much bandage and gauze. Liam couldn't believe he inflicted this much injury on his brother.He only wanted to bring him back to his senses with just a few punches.He didn't know what came over him.He couldn't stop, probably due to Daryl's provocative words.And if Haley hadn't come in time…“Cat got your tongue, Bro?” Daryl's question snapped him back to the present. “Ha! Is that regret I see on your face? Well, it's too late.”Too late for what?It wasn't like Liam was planning to apologize.An apology was the furthest thing in his mind.And Daryl acting so casually despite these injuries had him doubting if he wasn't faking it.He shouldn't have sustained this much injury. “Tsk.” Daryl chuckled, shoving both hands into his pants pocket. “I wonder what it feels like to sit on t
…At DG Villa Estates. Instead of the blurriness, nausea, and headache, Haley woke up feeling lightheaded.All those heavy feelings were gone. The fever was no more, and apart from a bit of soreness across her body, there was no longer pain. Weird.Sitting up on the bed, she touched her forehead.The image of Liam beating up his brother flooded back to her mind, and everything that had transpired after that.It hadn't been a dream.Haley was a hundred percent sure. She could still feel the traces of the blood where she'd touched them… the fright lingered in her heart about what would become of Daryl. Glancing towards the large windows, Haley blinked at the blinding lights flooding in. She couldn't recall drawing the curtains apart.Was it… Liam?She shifted but something stung her arm, inciting a wince from her. Haley's eyes traveled to the spot, and on seeing the small bandage, realization sank in. She'd been administered an IV Drip.Not only that, there were dozens of drugs
“B- Bro- B-Big Brother…”Her trembling lips wouldn't let her speak coherently.Haley blinked rapidly at the man standing in front of her.Holding onto the door, she found herself unable to move an inch. “Because you don't want marriage, you're hiding here, Haley-” Andrew said, worry mixed with helplessness masking his expression. He stared at her from head to toe, shaking his head. “Lemme guess… you haven't eaten yet. Are you drowning yourself in sadness?”Haley looked down. Indeed, she'd look famished despite eating just now. After all, she was just recovering from a fever which almost took her life. “Uhm, Brother… why're you here?”She was stuttering again, and the frown on Andrew's face deepened.He made way to walk past her, but she blocked his path.To say her heart was racing was an understatement.What if Andrew went in and saw Liam's things?He'd definitely demand to know whom they belonged to.And everyone who knew Joye knew that he was Liam's assistant.What if her brot
The easiest way out?Haley couldn't help but glance at him again. Reading his expression carefully, she was suddenly mortified.Her fingers trembled as she gripped the hem of her dress, and she avoided his gaze at all costs. Damnit!Cursing inside, Haley shut her eyes.Why was she confused at her brother's sudden support of her wedding with Harry?The answer was obvious, and she failed to detect it. “Bro, I can explain…” Haley murmured, yet, she could say nothing further.As if her brother wasn't willing to listen either, he simply sighed and continued driving. Haley fought the urge to slap her forehead out of embarrassment. It was useless anyway. It was too late, but the last person she wanted to misunderstand her was her brother. “It's not what you're thinking…” She finally summoned the courage to say. Although, Haley doubted he'd believe it.Seeing was believing, and he must have gotten all his answers from the surveillance footage.Andrew owned the Villa Estates.He must h
…At The Villa Estates.Beep.Beep.Beep.That irritating sound made Liam want to crush the phone.He hung up on him.That damned man!“Where were you when he took her away!?” He turned to his assistant, ready to rain all his frustration on him.However, Joye was trembling in a corner, his head lowered, avoiding his eyes.“Answer me or lose your job!” Liam clenched his fists.Yet,The assistant's demeanor had Liam convinced that whatever he said would only worsen his rage towards him. Liam just had to return minutes ago to find Haley not home.While the guy he'd entrusted her to was foolishly lounging on the living room's couch, watching TV.Literally,The assistant had forgotten about Haley whom he claimed went to receive someone at the door.It was either Haley snuck out, or somebody took her away.It turned out to be the latter when Liam confirmed with the security men that Andrew Woods came and took her.“Damnit!”Cursing under his breath, Liam tossed his phone across the couch.
…Before they arrived home, Haley's headache had already intensified.The dizziness also returned just like last night and she felt like fainting again. Sigh!Maybe she shouldn't have left the Villa yet. Her medications were there and she hadn't even recovered.Telling her brother that she was sick wasn't a good idea either. She'd rather not burden him. So Haley pretended she was sleeping throughout the rest of the ride.And she feared the burning fever inside her might give her away. On this warm afternoon, bouts of sweat poured down her forehead.“Are you alright?” Her brother's voice came from the driver's seat. He had not said anything ever since Liam called. He'd not spoken a word to her, but his anger was evident in his demeanor.Shaking her head, Haley forced a smile. “I'm fine.”Yet, her voice came out weak and hoarse. Haley couldn't wait to get home. She couldn't wait to get to her room and take a day-long rest.If possible, she'd avoid her parents at all costs. No
…~ One Year Later ~When others saw the bright sun of the morning, she could only see the orange sun, gradually fading, giving way to darkness. When there was a storm, people looked forward to the peace and calmness after it, while she only foresaw many more storms looming ahead. She should have been more pessimistic than this,Then she could have at least saved one life. If she hadn't been a coward, hoping that crazy guy would have a little mercy, she wouldn't have fallen for his lies. She'd take the gunshot instead.But no,She'd trusted him… that was her biggest mistake.Daryl’s cruelty had been beyond saving. Helping him lure Liam to the occasion was her biggest regret. Maybe… just maybe- if she'd been brave enough, Liam wouldn't have-“Mrs. Nash, sorry to interrupt you!” The secretary barged into the office, snapping her out of her thoughts. “The Stakeholders' meeting will commence in the next three minutes. Do you need my help getting ready?”Haley sighed. Right, the meeti
What gibberish was he sputtering?How did he even manage to sneak into the Villa?How did he manage to overpower the bodyguards?After Daryl’s last words, he hung up, leaving Liam wondering what the hell that crazy boy was up to again.He mustn't be serious about marrying Haley. Apart from being illegal, it didn't make any sense. What stupid judge would get them married without the consent of one party?Daryl was only trying to irritate him.“Sir, is he telling the truth?” Joye who had probably heard the conversation because Daryl's voice was too loud, blinked rapidly. “Is he going to get married to Madam?”Liam chuckled.That was impossible.Haley would not even agree. “I think this is serious, Sir…” Joye exclaimed. “Your brother is up to no good. Let's go and see.”Of course, Liam was going there.If it meant finding that crazy boy there, why wouldn't he go?Daryl was playing with fire.Kidnapping Haley from the Villa was already a gruesome offense? On his command, the driver tu
…Was this it?Was this the end of the family's reputation? The same questions kept resonating in Liam's mind all day. The company's stocks were crumbling again,Some of the shareholders were pulling out their investments,And the employees were all in a frenzy.Watching the Nash Empire crumble right before his eyes was something he never dreamt about.He'd never for once seen this happening in any of his nightmares.Liam thought he'd left no loose ends. Every source the news would get leaked out, he'd already blocked it.How then did his brother lay his hands on this crucial secret? How the hell did Daryl even escape from the police custody? “He shouldn't have left the city yet, Mr. Nash…” The Police Chief assured him, “We are going to find him before the day ends.”The day was already ending.All Liam wanted was for all this to be over. He'd left the Villa without informing Haley. He could only imagine her anxiety at the moment. Joye reported to him that she called and she d
Haley waited at the dining table patiently, her gaze traveling to the doorway now and then. Liam and his assistant must be discussing something important, probably related to work. Well, was it so secretive that they had to discuss it outside?She glanced at the clock.Thirty minutes later, they weren't back yet. Now her mind was troubled.What was taking them so long?What were they even discussing?Liam didn't even wear proper clothing, wouldn't he catch a cold outside? Tapping her fingers impatiently on the desk, Haley stood up. She headed outside the building, looking forward to seeing Liam and his assistant.To her surprise, they weren't there.Even the assistant’s car was gone if he came with any.What was happening?Did they sneak out of the Villa?If not, how could she not have heard any sound?To confirm her thoughts, Haley strode to the security man. “It's too early and cold, Madam… what are you doing outside?” Was the first thing the concerned young man asked. Haley
That explained it all. Was she just lucky or were the heavens by her side? Staring into his eyes, she saw nothing but genuine affection.The affection she'd been searching for ever since she returned. Her instincts never lied, and the feeling was strong.Liam loved her.He never hated her.He was only mad because of the misunderstanding.“But you gave me a hard time, huh.” Haley poked at his chest, pouting. However, Liam laughed lightheartedly, taking her wrists in his hands. “Believe me, I didn't.”Right.He'd planned to do worse. If she hadn't summoned the courage, speaking like a crazy person last night, convinced she was speaking to the air, he'd still regard her as his enemy.Her craziness paid off, and-“I'm sorry.” Drawing her close by wrapping both arms around her waist, his expression turned sullen. “I shouldn't have treated you that way.”Indeed, she'd been almost broken beyond repair.Amidst the despair, she marveled at where she got the courage to chase him. “If I fo
On entering the living room, however, the woman came to a screeching halt, her eyes popping out of their sockets.Her lips parted like a fish’s, and pointing a trembling finger forward, she shouted, “You, this silly girl! Why're you with my son!?”Haley's heart dropped to her stomach.Damnit!For some reason, this woman hated her to the core. Even when she visited the mansion, the woman had hollered at and hit her. Wondering what she did wrong, she'd tried to apologize which only intensified her cruel actions towards her. Liam's mother didn't like her.Did she offend her in the past? “I thought you were hitting it off with Lisa already!” She faced Liam. “What are you doing with this wayward psychotic girl? Do you want me to die of a heart attack, Son!?”As she scolded Liam, the bodyguards dropped the boxes and left. Instinctively, Haley found herself shrinking behind him, hiding her presence.As if caught red-handed in an offensive act, she trembled on her toes, grabbing his arm
Haley paused.Then she pulled away with a sigh.Was she supposed to be mad at his words? Did she have the right to?He'd claimed not to love her anymore, but he just touched her.Liam's words might be partially correct. Even though he no longer loved her, at least he was still attracted to her. Lust and love…“You mean desire?” She stared at him, hope igniting a spark in her heart.“Call it what you like…” Liam turned his back to her. “It doesn't change anything.”But it might change a lot.The inkling was strong, fuelling her persistence. Haley didn't even know why she was smiling when she should be broken-hearted at the moment.‘Patience is key.’She'd soon have Liam wrapped around her fingers,But what happened a while ago wouldn't repeat itself. Not unless his wound healed. With a last glance at his back, she got down from the bed and headed inside the bathroom.She washed up the blood stains from the shirt and blew it dry with the hair dryer she found. Many minutes later, s
Haley followed his gaze, checking out the skimpy clothes she wore.The lacey nightwear barely concealed anything, revealing all there was to see. Urgh!She should have gone for a normal shirt and shorts.But in the fit of hunger, the thought about it fled her mind, until-Returning her gaze to his, Haley gulped, taking a cautious step back.Was he this super mad just because she wore something revealing?How the hell did it concern him anyway? “Get changed!” He snapped, pointing behind him to the stairs.The heck! What did she do wrong again?Infuriated by his actions, Haley balled her fists.Right. She was doing her best to make this dumb man understand that she wasn't in the wrong, yet, he kept giving her a hard time. If ordering her around was his way of intimidation, then he'd failed big time. From the deadly look in his eyes, Haley shuddered instead…But she maintained a brave front, lifting her chin and meeting his gaze. “As you wish!”Slowly, she curled her fingers around
Driven by curiosity and hoping that her mind was just being dramatic, Haley followed them upstairs.When she arrived in the hallway, they were already out of sight.But she heard voices… from the master's bedroom.Slowing down her footsteps, Haley's heart beat with discomfort as she approached the door. “Hey, keep still…” She laughed. “I promise it won't hurt.”“Who told you I'm scared?”“You eyes.”“Oh, really?” He laughed. “Watch me-”“No!” The lady's gasp echoed. Then she sighed. “You're so unbelievable, Will… allow a professional to apply it instead.”“It's no biggie. I'm done.”Done?Done with what?Haley pursed her lips, wishing she could disconnect her hearing from her heart.Why were they laughing together?She never knew that grumpy man knew how to laugh,And she couldn't remain here and continue eavesdropping,She had to see what was going on in there.Liam might catch her, so what?Pushing the door open, Haley stepped inside the room. Behold, Liam sat on the bed, facing t