Erin was well aware that her spoken commitments carried significant weight. Yet, she remained resolute in her determination to delve into the matter. Upon her return to her office, she promptly dispatched messages to the outlets where Yurich cosmetics were available. "That was a bold move, Erin," Orion remarked as he closed the door. During meetings, Erin had to wear a Bluetooth monitor, ensuring that Orion could hear the discussions taking place on the board. She didn't mind, fully aware that he was the actual shareholder in Yurich, not herself. She had no plans to speak with the man, but she raised her gaze to Orion, wanting to ask if he also lacked trust in her. "While it's accurate that makeup has a two-year expiration once opened, it's crucial to grasp that each product still retains chemicals. I'm concerned about potential lawsuits from customers who might develop skin allergies. Therefore, it's necessary to dispose of these makeup items," Erin explained. "How do you p
Orion tenderly caressed Erin's cheek, his fingers delicately tracing the contours of her cheeks, ears, and neck. He tightened his embrace around her, relishing the pleasure that surged through his body as she pressed against him once again. This was a sensation he had yearned for in the past few days. "You feel so good, Erin. I've longed for these lips," he murmured, his thumb gently brushing against her lips, accompanied by a sharp pang in his chest. "Thank you for the flowers!" Erin exclaimed; her gaze fixed on the expansive bouquet. The flowers were Orion's way of expressing apology. Initially, he had planned to create some distance, sensing her determination to avoid him. Despite his desire to be near her, he could perceive the pain in her eyes as he stood beside her. Yet, the harsh reality struck him deeply. "Have you forgiven me?" Orion inquired simply. "My feelings are rather delicate," she replied with a playful tone. "I'm truly sorry about that morning." Orion co
The following day, Erin met with Monica at a venue specified by the latter. To her surprise, it turned out to be an event hall bustling with activity – the music was booming, and models and staff were engrossed in their tasks, creating an energetic atmosphere. Erin couldn't help but think, 'It seems like Monica has orchestrated for me to work tonight.' All she knew was that a conversation with Monica was on the agenda. Unprepared for the occasion, Erin wasn't particularly enthusiastic about it. Having been absent from the industry for a year, she believed such gatherings required thorough preparation. In the midst of the vibrant crowd, Erin spotted a woman with short, straight black hair cascading down to her shoulders. "Hello! I'm Erin Villaverde!" The woman scrutinized Erin from head to toe. Her expression soured upon observing her. "I'm Monica. So, you're that Erin. Your skin is dry, and you look old because of your eye bags! Don't you use any skincare?" Erin
Orion's exploring hands tenderly traced the contours of Erin's longing cheeks as he fixated his eyes on her. "God! I've missed you so much, baby girl!" he exclaimed, gently kissing her forehead before capturing her lips again. His lips and tongue traversed in the dance of their mouths, exchanging breaths with Erin. Erin willingly embraced Orion's kisses, finding solace in his words that effortlessly erased her doubts, dispelling any troubles in her heart. "You smell so nice," Orion murmured as his nose grazed the delicate L-shape of her neck. His eyes conveyed myriad emotions, subtly pulling at the string of her robe, his palm discreetly slipping beneath the fabric. Orion's lips continued their journey, tracing down the curve of her neck and the crook of her chest. Erin was nearly breathless, feeling the intense sensations coursing through her veins. "Naked and ready, I see…" he whispered, playfully reddening her cheeks. His gaze traced the contours of her figure, and at th
"Nothing," Orion replied, observing Danica's puffy eyes. "Dad was just asking me if you wanted to return to the city and handle some matters at the office." Orion believed Danica was content with his response, yet an underlying nervousness lingered. "I'm sorry, Dad. I prefer to stay at the resort on the island," Danica responded. Mr. Arvesso nodded, but his gaze held a significant message directed at Orion. "Just as I thought," Orion whispered. They all made their way to the car to head home, but Orion's attention was drawn to a white envelope tucked into Mr. Arvesso's car wiper. Furrowing his brow, Orion glanced around; though a few people were in the area, everyone appeared preoccupied. Who could have placed that there? "Why is there an envelope on your car, Uncle Niel?" Drew asked. "I don't know. Someone is probably playing a prank on me," his dad said. Orion pulled the white envelope, and to his surprise, he discovered his name inscribed on it. "Orion,"
Erin awoke with a heavy sensation in her chest, the strange atmosphere lingering from the previous day, which marked the anniversary of Daryl's death. Despite the weight of the occasion, Orion had not sent her a message, a silence she comprehended. Therefore, she was taken aback when he unexpectedly arrived at her penthouse last night. Anger simmered in Orion's eyes, and she sensed the pain residing in his chest. Regardless of her own feelings, Erin knew she needed to fathom his perspective as Daryl's older brother, enduring the relentless ache until the truth surfaced. The previous night, Orion displayed gentleness despite the weight of pain crushing their hearts. Erin willingly surrendered herself to the experience, embracing him fully. She harbored no regrets, for he held the sole place in her heart. She had to feel him. Erin's emotions would have grown weary if Orion hadn't shifted in bed, meeting her teary eyes. He tenderly kissed her forehead, drawing her closer to his embra
"O?" Erin's voice interrupted Orion as he spoke with Drew on the phone. He turned to find Erin clad only in a robe. "Sorry, I have to go," he quickly apologized to Drew. "Damn! You're leaving me in suspense after telling me your news?" Drew complained. "Talk to you soon. Sorry!" Orion ended the call with Drew and turned his attention to Erin, who was barefoot. "You'll get cold," he cautioned. The outdoor area was windy, especially since it was dark and they were on a high floor. Orion carried Erin and guided her back inside. "It was Drew. I'll introduce you to him and Lily next week. Master Walton invited me to his birthday, and you'll be my plus one," Orion explained. Erin couldn't steady her gaze, revealing her nervousness. "Don't fret, Erin. Perhaps you're concerned that I've invited you to the party because of Mr. Walton. You're the one who expressed that Mr. Lawrence is the one you consider as your dad. There's no need for concern about others; just believe in your relat
Erin felt a wave of sadness engulf her after the doctor shared Zach's current health condition. Anxiously, she couldn't sit still beside him, awaiting him to wake up. "Miss Erin, why don't you call his family?" Marco suggested. Understanding his concern, Erin looked at the clock; it was almost dawn, and they had been at the hospital, tirelessly monitoring her friend's condition. Exhausted but determined, they hadn't taken a break. "I don't know, Marco. I'll wait for Zach to wake up first. His family might not be aware of this situation, so I don't want to interfere," Erin replied. "They didn't know..." Zach's weak voice interrupted. Erin and Marco both flinched as Zach opened his eyes, gazing at them. "Oh my God, Zach! We decided to check your house because it's unusual for you not to respond to my messages." "May I talk to Erin privately?" he requested, turning his gaze towards Marco. Marco shrugged and exited the private ward, leaving Erin and Zach alone with a shared s
Months later... As the days unfolded amidst the ancient branches of towering trees, a soft breeze caressed the leaves, weaving a delicate melody that echoed the whispers of times past. The relentless march of time had etched its mark upon the weathered gravestones, standing as solemn guardians adorned with the names of those who once thrived with vitality. Some graves bloomed with freshly placed flowers, while others surrendered to the embrace of moss and roots, each telling a tale that had reached their poignant conclusion. Erin tenderly laid a bouquet of pristine white roses before the gravestone of someone she once knew as Orion's wise and strong brother, Daryl. It marked the anniversary of his passing. Having become a part of the Arvesso family through her recent marriage to Orion, Erin joined them in visiting Daryl's resting place. As she fixed her gaze upon the inscription of his name and the date of his death, a pang of guilt coiled around her heart, unseen but deeply f
Orion's waning interest in responding to Erin's question was palpable. "Well?" Erin asked once more, anticipation etched on her face. "Why did you agree to marry Tanya?" Orion's brow furrowed. "Do you believe I was romantically involved with Zach's sister?" "No." Initially, Erin had presumed there was a romantic connection between Orion and Tanya, conjecturing that their relationship had grown deeper, considering Tanya's pregnancy as evidence of such intimacy. However, the harsh reality of Tanya's miscarriage and Orion's subsequent public explanation unveiled the true nature of their bond with Erin. It dawned on her that what she had perceived as a serious relationship was, in fact, a casual affair. Orion recounted the events involving Mr. Niel Arvesso and Tanya, shedding light on what transpired in the hotel and the circumstances surrounding Tanya's pregnancy. "If that's the case, you knew from the beginning you weren't the father of the child she was carrying..." E
Erin's fingertips lightly brushed against Orion's cheek as they sat together in the car. Despite having a driver at their disposal, they paid him no attention, lost in each other's company. Orion monopolized her thoughts entirely. The disbelief lingered within Erin as though the day's events existed only in a dream. "Please, tell me this isn't a dream," Erin pleaded. In response, Orion silenced her with a tender kiss, his lips tracing a path down her neck. The driver's cheeks flushed crimson as he glanced at the rearview mirror. He wished he could vanish, overwhelmed by the palpable passion unfolding in the backseat. Their actions were simple yet intimate—kisses exchanged, sweet words whispered. Before long, they arrived back at Orion's residence, where Erin and Lacey were currently staying. Orion scooped Erin into his arms, carrying her inside. As they crossed the threshold, Erin's gaze fell upon a lone suitcase nestled by the doorway, a silent witness to Orion's hurried d
The movements, exchanges of conversation, and the beeping of various devices reverberated in Orion's ears like echoes from a dream. Erin's tears haunted his thoughts, her pleas for him not to let go echoing endlessly. Each time she cried, his heart sank deeper, consumed by worry. "Wake up, Orion… Wake up!" The urgent call seemed to emanate from everywhere—Erin's voice and even a faint whisper within his own mind. He needed to rise, to return to the woman he loved. It was as if an enchantment had ensnared his skin, holding him captive in its grasp, steadfast and unyielding. With deliberate slowness, he unfurled his eyelids, welcomed by the scene of Marco's fervent typing on his laptop. A lump materialized in his throat, accompanied by a cascade of numbness and anguish that inundated his entire being. The intensity of the pain threatened to elicit curses from his lips, but his voice emerged raspy and weak. "W-water..." he managed to croak. Marco's eyes widened, the color draining
As they sat together in the hospital lounge, Lily's tender touch wiped away Erin's tears. They both waited anxiously for any updates on Orion's condition, their shared concern palpable in the silent moments between them. The hospital restricted access to the intensive care unit to prevent overcrowding and minimize the risk of introducing infections. Visitors were required to wear gowns to prevent any potential transmission of bacteria to the patient. "Erin, you must continue to balance your responsibilities, both at work and with Lacey," Lily advised, offering her support. It had been a challenging month since Orion's hospitalization, and Erin struggled to juggle her obligations. Despite Lily's occasional return home to Bel-Air, Erin remained steadfast in her vigil by Orion's side in the city. "I know your heart is with Orion, but don't forget about Lacey," Lily reminded her gently. As Erin sank onto the couch, the weight of her exhaustion evident, she reflected on her sacrifices
"Orion! Orion! P-please, do your best to stay awake," Erin pleaded, trailing behind James' group of men carrying Orion. She feared that if he closed his eyes, it could be the last time she saw him. Orion's gaze appeared delirious, mirroring Erin inside his mind. He struggled to place his palm on her cheek, his efforts indicative of his weakening condition. James swiftly called for a helicopter to expedite their departure from the area where they had engaged Douglas Mikael's group. As they exited the building, Marco hurried towards Erin. "Erin!" he called out. "Marco!" She sobbed, embracing her friend tightly. "O-Orion..." Her voice faltered, unable to articulate her fears. "I understand. We must get him to the nearby city. I've informed the hospital and made the necessary arrangements. We cannot linger here in Acapulco," Marco assured her. Minutes later, assistance arrived. Erin followed silently, tears streaming down her face as she held Orion's hand, her prayers unspoken. A me
Five years ago, Erin and Orion engaged in meaningful agreement when Orion served as her bodyguard. During that time, he provided her with a number to call in case of trouble, a number that Erin never imagined would remain working to this day. Upon hearing Erin's voice, Orion struggled to contain his emotions. Both of them felt the weight of the situation, teetering on the edge of tears. "My love, are you alright?" Orion's voice trembled with concern, his trembling words betraying the depth of his emotions. The weight of sadness hung palpably between them, echoing the turmoil of their hearts. "I need a solid crust," Erin replied. Attempting to steady himself, Orion exclaimed, "I must compose myself! Fuck! How many guards are there? How many require rescue?" Recalling her observations earlier, Erin cryptically mentioned, "There's an abundance of cheese, an overwhelming number of pepperonis. The crust must be sturdy and thick," conveying to Orion the gravity of the challenge he face
"I need your help," Erin pleaded with Jenna as she made her way to Jenna's cabin. Caught off guard by Erin's sudden appearance, her cousin paused momentarily, her eyebrows furrowing in surprise. However, she swiftly composed herself, her hands continuing their fluid motion as she applied blush to her cheeks with practiced precision. Raising an eyebrow at Erin's request, Jenna couldn't help but wonder if she was losing her mind, entertaining the thought of helping someone she had distanced herself from. Jenna paused her makeup routine, crossed her arms, and met Erin's gaze in the mirror. "Are you suggesting I aid in your escape?" "Yes," Erin replied. She felt desperate. Honey had assured her that staying on the current floor offered some safety, thanks to Boss Scar's protection. However, venturing to the main deck, where the cruise clients resided, seemed perilous; too many individuals there harbored ill intentions towards her, making escape unlikely and survival uncertain. "Tha
Erin was so taken aback that she found herself unable to form a response. "J-Jenna?" she stammered. The woman before her remained stoic. Her demeanor drastically altered after five long years. She moved with unsteady steps, avoiding Erin's gaze. Erin recalled Honey's account of a woman who had been mistreated almost to the point of death by Bald, staying inside a cabin to recuperate. Could that woman possibly be Jenna? Approaching her cousin cautiously, Erin asked, "What happened to you? Why are you here?" She reached out for Jenna's hand, only to have it swiftly withdrawn. "Don't feign concern now!" Jenna retorted sharply. Despite her surprise, Erin's concern for Jenna was genuine; she simply hadn't anticipated this turn of events. Jenna attempted to compose herself, her facade crumbling. "A woman I share a room with mentioned Boss Scar's involvement in your abduction. I need to know if it's true!" "You've seen me. Are you reveling in your revenge?" Erin questioned, grappling