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Chapter 32. Fragile heart
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2024-10-29 19:42:56Related chapters
EXCEPTION Chapter 33. Echoes of Yesterday
The room was dark, save for the faint glow of moonlight streaming through the partially closed curtains. I shifted under the covers, my mind buzzing with remnants of last night's conversation with Courtney. Every word he said was still fresh. The way he had pushed me away, his words harsh and final, had been eating away at me all night.I blinked, adjusting my eyes to the dim light, only to freeze. There, sitting in a chair beside my bed, was Courtney. My eyes widened in surprise. His figure was shadowed, but I could see the outline of his broad shoulders and the unmistakable weight he seemed to carry. My heart skipped a beat as my brain scrambled to understand what was happening.How long had he been sitting there?I sat up slowly, my movements cautious, my gaze fixed on him. "Courtney?" My voice came out softer than I intended, still thick with sleep. I hadn't expected him to be here, especially not like this.He turned his head slightly toward me, and in the faint light, I saw his
EXCEPTION Chapter 1. Hid from the abuser
Agonizing pain ripped through my body, penetrating every cell as tears streamed down my cheeks, pleading for him to stop. But Blaine's face twisted into something monstrous, his eyes gleaming with fury. I hugged my body tightly, trying desperately to stifle my sobs. "Please... Blaine, stop." My voice trembled, broken. "I-I just want to eat. What am I supposed to do? I'm hungry. My stomach hurts..." I dared to glance at him, hoping he would soften and his rage would subside. But all I could see in his eyes was burning hatred until, without warning, he ripped off his black belt and began lashing me as if I had committed some heinous, unforgivable sin."You stupid, worthless bitch! How many times do I have to tell you? Don't eat anything!" His voice thundered through the room, his anger savage. "The grand party is tomorrow night! You have to be the most alluring woman there! Do you think stuffing your face is going to help with that? Eating will make you fat and ugly!"His words cut deep
EXCEPTION Chapter 2. Take me with you
After a brief moment of hesitation, the door flew open, and a man glared at me solemnly. His brows furrowed, instantly making me uneasy. "Who are you? Why did you break into my house? And why did you run from your husband?" His voice grew louder, each word sharp and accusing, his gaze fixed on me like he could see through me.Panic washed over me. I took a shaky step toward him, my breath heavy. "Shhh... Please, don’t shout. He might hear us and come back. I can’t take it anymore." My entire body trembled, silently praying that he would understand.But he remained stoic, crossing his arms over his chest, studying me like he was trying to read my mind. "Speak. You're in my house. You owe me answers.""Please, just let me stay here... and don’t tell him if you see him again. I promise I’ll be gone soon. I just need a place to hide. I’m not a thief, and I’m not a stripper." My voice wavered as I tried to make him believe me.His expression shifted, something I couldn’t quite read, darken
EXCEPTION Chapter 3. In the middle of chaos
Without saying a word, Courtney grabbed my hand, dragging me outside the house in a rush."Courtney! Where are we going? And why are we running?" I asked, my voice trembling with confusion and fear.A gunshot rang out behind us, loud enough to shake me to my core. My heart pounded in terror with every step, my mind racing with the thought of being hit. I didn't dare look back."What is happening?!" I demanded again, breathless, but he kept running, ignoring me. "Why won't you answer me? Where are you taking me?!"He stayed silent, his face showing apparent frustration at my questions. His furrowed brows told me how annoyed he was by my persistence, as if there was something he couldn't or wouldn't explain. It felt like he was hiding something important.We finally reached a large tree surrounded by thick bushes. He tightened his grip on my hand, pulling me under the cover of the branches. I scanned the area, realizing we were alone, but Courtney was still glancing around, alert, as tho
EXCEPTION Chapter 4. His dominance
Thirty minutes have gone since we had a stranger-kind argument. We halted in front of the abandoned building made out of concrete and brick as if it were left after decades of destruction. I scrutinized it with curiosity. The outside was sheathed in graffiti, making me wonder if there was a gang inside that made this place their home base.We stepped out of the car, allowing me to inspect further the surroundings. There were two doors from a building on the left side that didn't match the other door on the right, which was slightly ajar, revealing a staircase going up and down to unknown destinations, and there were no windows on any of its walls.But why would Courtney be coming here?I didn't notice him staring at me until he cleared his throat. "Be careful when we go in. And ignore anything you see. Got it?"His words left me puzzled. "Why? What is this place?""Quit asking." He stepped forward, his mesmerizing gaze never leaving mine. "You initiated coming with me. Now stay quiet a
EXCEPTION Chapter 5. His greatest foe
Courtney’s POVAlmost thirty minutes have gone by since I ordered Oliver to assist Adeleine. That woman is unbelievable. The fact she entrusted her life to me is the most unforeseen thing I’ve ever encountered. Now I’m fucking accountable for her safety.I must admit that the moment I first looked at her, I glimmered something unfathomable. She’s just so damn beautiful. Her beauty is different than all the other women I’ve known. However, judging the scenario earlier proved her life in the hands of her husband was in dire straits. Unfortunately, I knew our encounter would soon end because my life was not a game. I have a cruel fate, and someone like her doesn’t deserve to be part of it. I need to send her to a safe place as soon as possible to ensure she will not be involved in any danger.Right now, I have a serious mission to focus on.I stood facing the man who killed the former president of Viasco Corporation, Macario Alejo—the man who had done so much for me and our town. Macario
EXCEPTION Chapter 6. Sinful fantasy
Back to Adeleine's POV No words escaped my mouth as I gazed at the man in front of me incredulously. It was the man that Courtney had been torturing ever since he decreed Oliver to assist me. I was just curious to see him, but I never expected it was the man who once abused me. I don't remember his surname, but I am perfectly certain his first name is Fredrin. Aside from my husband, this man is one of the evils who wrecked me, and I will never forget his face. "How could you manage to be so elusive?!" I yelled until our eyes met. My mind couldn't process the view that I was seeing. "I know my husband helped you escape. Admit it!" My hands quivered in both pain and rage as I glared at him with so much abhor. The memories of those hell nights were still vivid in my mind, and it was so depressing that I could still feel them on my skin. He looked terrible, badly injured by a couple of bullets and all the physical abuse he'd gone through. His clothes were covered in blood, and his
EXCEPTION Chapter 7. Let me stay
Morning finally came, and I woke up feeling woozy with the hangover. It took me a few moments to realize what I did last night.Holy shit!My hands moved to my mouth to cover it up when the scenario began playing in my head like a movie. I was so drunk that I lost control and kissed Courtney without his consent. How am I ever going to explain to Courtney about this? I even recalled how he kissed me back, and that thought alone made my cheeks turn red. But no! I have to act like it was nothing, that my action was unintentional.I tried to regain my composure as I sat down on my bed. There are three paper bags on the floor beside the bed. I checked out each one, and they were full of clothes for me. A smile tugged at the corner of my lips as I imagined Courtney buying these clothes, which only proved how caring and considerate he was. That thought lasted for a few seconds when I glimpsed the clock and realized it was already ten o'clock in the morning.I stood up and took a bath to get
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EXCEPTION Chapter 33. Echoes of Yesterday
The room was dark, save for the faint glow of moonlight streaming through the partially closed curtains. I shifted under the covers, my mind buzzing with remnants of last night's conversation with Courtney. Every word he said was still fresh. The way he had pushed me away, his words harsh and final, had been eating away at me all night.I blinked, adjusting my eyes to the dim light, only to freeze. There, sitting in a chair beside my bed, was Courtney. My eyes widened in surprise. His figure was shadowed, but I could see the outline of his broad shoulders and the unmistakable weight he seemed to carry. My heart skipped a beat as my brain scrambled to understand what was happening.How long had he been sitting there?I sat up slowly, my movements cautious, my gaze fixed on him. "Courtney?" My voice came out softer than I intended, still thick with sleep. I hadn't expected him to be here, especially not like this.He turned his head slightly toward me, and in the faint light, I saw his
EXCEPTION Chapter 32. Fragile heart
It's been four hours since Julian sent me back to the Reestone Building. He's outside the door, guarding me for four hours straight. And now I have to stay inside, let the boredom get the better of me until Courtney shows up. I stood before a full-length mirror, taking in the sight of myself. My hair cascaded down in soft waves, and I was in dark pajamas and an oversized shirt. But as I stared, the carefree reflection began to blur, overshadowed by memories that played out like a reel— the scenario earlier. Every threat and sound of gunfire was fresh in my memory as it echoed around in my head like a scream. But what really gets to me are all the memories that don't involve guns or bullets; it wasn't just the violence that haunted me. It was Courtney's strange hold over people at the party as if he were some kind of man who made many contributions. It almost made him seem harmless, almost like a beloved community figure. Charismatic, but only those who dared to cross him knew the dar
EXCEPTION Chapter 31. Who is she?
A heavy tension permeated the atmosphere, the silence profound and suffocating. Our adversaries loomed before us, their predatory gazes fixed upon us, ready to unleash violence at any moment. Yet, amidst this palpable threat, my eyes were drawn to Courtney. The look on his face was so fucking serene like nothing could bring him down, and he was capable of facing down our foes without a flicker of hesitation. But then, there's still a part of me that can't help but feel anxious about what will happen after tonight. My thoughts were brought to a halt when Courtney pulled out a lighter and held it towards the cigarette dangling between his fingers. Wait! A cigarette bomb! Without hesitation, he threw the smoke grenade in our direction with such precision and accuracy that it hit exactly where it needed to be. A blast rippled through the ground, and it was then followed by screams that only seemed amplified because of the explosion. The smell of gunpowder hung in the air, and smo
EXCEPTION Chapter 30. Diamond
Courtney held my hand tight as we ran outside, chasing the entire gang. Continuous gunshots echoed through the air. Bullets pinged off brick and metal structures around us, creating a cacophony that was becoming too much to bear. I looked over my shoulder briefly but didn't see anyone who had not been shot already, so I focused on escaping. It was easy enough with Courtney by my side, but it was still terrifying to think I was now facing this scenario. Those dangerous gang members were the ones who made trouble and are now on their way to sell the diamond. We were behind the enemies, and they kept firing at that ridiculous speed and precision. But we're trying to follow them while staying out of reach. However, despite the fact I'm used to hearing gunshots, the apprehension overwhelmed me with each thump that echoed around the surroundings. But Courtney's hands had this comforting grip on my arm as he continued to pull me along. The more we kept following them, the more I witness
EXCEPTION Chapter 29. Bloody night
It’s raining outside. The water drummed relentlessly against the car’s roof as Courtney navigated the slick streets. I’m chilling in the car’s passenger seat. Our plan to walk had been derailed because the rain had just started pouring down. Instead, we decided to head straight to our destination. I was just looking out the window as we drove, admiring how pretty everything looked in the rain. It was so calming I could feel my body relax. Not to mention that I’m tipsy from the bottle of wine we just finished earlier. I turned my head to look at Courtney; he was still concentrating on the road while speaking with Julian over the phone. The urgency in his tone and how his eyebrows were knitted together gave me a clue. And it’s probably not anything good. He seemed very upset, but he kept his cool for this long. I strained to catch snippets of conversation—code names, locations, things that are classified information—but I couldn’t make much sense of it. Eventually, he hung up and sigh
EXCEPTION Chapter 28. Queen of Denial
I’m sitting inside Redemice Cafe, a bustling, popular restaurant and his current favorite, according to him. As I sit in contemplative silence, my gaze fixated on him in the distance, I observe him engaged in a conversation over the phone. Meanwhile, I remain rooted in my place, patiently awaiting the arrival of our meal. It has been fourteen hours since he unveiled all the weapons and closet to me. Despite the gravity of yesterday’s events, I have whiled away the day in quiet repose as if the specter of danger had never loomed over us only now, as he brought me to this wealthy cafe. I’m wearing this dress he gave me— a black slit maxi dress adorned with shimmering sequins that seem to sparkle like precious jewels. The fabric is not flimsy; it exudes a softness and warmth that caresses my skin as my fingers glide over the delicate ruffles. While not overly revealing, the neckline features a sheer top, a choice that Courtney insisted upon. And the black suede heels that go along with i
EXCEPTION Chapter 27. I want you back
I woke up from the sound of steps coming closer. I opened my eyes to see a figure of a man in a black suit standing over me, his hands behind his back and his posture rigid and formal. My eyes widened in recognition as I stared at him with my hand still on my head. I rubbed my eyes with my fingers to make sure it was real. It’s Julian—one of Courtney’s men. “Good morning, Ms. Adeleine. I’m sorry for waking you early.” He bowed his head slightly to show his apologetic nature. “Sir Courtney asked me to bring you to him once you’re awake.” I rubbed my eyes again before sitting up slowly in bed. It took some time for them to readjust after sleeping in such an awkward position. “Oh. Alright. Tell him I’ll be there in a few minutes.” “Noted, Ms. Adeleine. I’ll be waiting outside your room.” He gave another bow and left quickly, closing the bedroom door quietly behind him. I sighed deeply and sat up fully, running a hand through my hair. I wondered why Courtney had me dragged out of bed
EXCEPTION Chapter 26. Entwined with you
When his gaze redirected to Blaine, his features hardened instantly. The fury was evident. And now I’m feeling nervous ’cause I could feel the tension that’s there.Blaine suddenly let out a loud growl, which snapped my attention. “Bullshit!” He swerved, taking another turn so sharply that the car almost tipped over. “If he thinks he can save you, he’s wrong!”I didn’t respond, but deep in my heart, I knew he was wrong. He’s a fool even to think Courtney was incapable of saving me.Blaine suddenly veered into an abandoned warehouse district, the crumbling buildings providing cover. I looked outside, and Courtney was following us, tires screeching as it fishtailed around the corner. He leaned out of the window, gun in hand, while his left hand held the wheel firmly. The following thing was when he fired shots through the windows beside Blaine, causing them to shatter loudly, and the bullets raked across the front windshield. That caused me to jerk back into the seat, covering my ears as
EXCEPTION Chapter 25. Save me
Back to Adeleine's POVI sat in the dimly lit room, my reflection staring back at me from the ornate mirror. The dress they made me wear was seductive, no doubt about it. A sleek red gown with a daring slit up my thigh, a line of lace tracing my curves just above the knee. It was a bit revealing for my taste, and I couldn't help but feel a tad uneasy in it. Peering at my reflection, I hardly recognized myself. My eyes, once lively and bright, now held only weariness and sorrow. And even with all the makeup, my true self peeked through, those scars and bruises telling a story of their own on my skin.Chris Salvatore, the man who had bought me for a million dollars, stood by the door. His eyes bore into mine, devoid of any compassion. Blaine was the mastermind behind this crazy idea of selling me to this jerk, and here I was, completely helpless to stop it."You're mine now." Chris sneered, his voice dripping with disgust as he swaggered toward me. I met his gaze through the mirror with
