Fred Cheng's astonishment was evident as his lips parted in disbelief. "Miss Erin?" invited Assistant Sarah, leading them inside while handing them an access card. Within the expansive warehouse, each supplier occupied a designated space. They navigated through the aisles, aiming for the section where Yurich's stocks were stored in the computer system. Uncomfortable and perspiring, Fred Cheng followed closely behind. Every aisle and area had vigilant monitors, and Drew approached one of them to guide them to the Yurich stocks. Coming to a halt at a closed cube compartment, he unlocked it, revealing three boxes. Erin's lips hung open in shock, her thoughts echoing, 'Is this some kind of joke?' "These are all the Yurich stocks in the warehouse," the man declared. "Uh, there seems to be a mistake, Mr. Walton," Assistant Mike interjected, unable to withhold his comment. "Why?" Drew Walton questioned. Assistant Mike exchanged glances with Erin before passing her tablet to
Marco welcomed Orion into the penthouse, granting him access to check on Erin. He gathered information about the occurrences at Yurich during the night. Finding Erin in the penthouse's outdoor area, Marco was the sole person he came across. "Fuck, O! I'm questioning whether what I'm involved in is still the right thing. I can't fathom why I'm here! Erin is a dear friend, and I can't shake this guilt about your actions," Marco confessed. Orion's expression soured as he realized Marco was privy to his original intentions regarding Erin. Marco pressed on, "Even if you haven't executed your initial plan, Yurich is slipping away from Erin's grasp. What's the next move? I feel terrible. Are you going to abandon Erin now? Is the promised marriage off the table? She loves you, O! It's evident how much she cares for you!" These questions lingered in Orion's mind. Had he accomplished his mission? Erin would gain nothing from Yurich Company. Was this his ultimate plan all along? "Erin
Jenna forcefully grabbed the photo from Erin's hand, who believed it was riddled with mistakes. "What does this mean? Why is Daryl with you in that photo?" Erin questioned; she was bewildered. "We were together in the picture, so what? Just leave, and I'll sort my things out!" Jenna retorted, raising her voice. "No! Jenna, you hated Daryl! You wouldn't hide a picture with Daryl if that picture didn't mean something to you!" Erin argued vehemently. The heated exchange caught the attention outside and prompted Orion to open the door. "Some employees outside can hear you. Your office is already in chaos, but you still manage to argue." Erin swiftly snatched the photo back from Jenna and presented it to Orion. "See this? This is why I'm pushing Jenna to speak. Daryl and Jenna had a bad relationship back in high school! This photo is impossible!" Orion squinted and then fixed his gaze on the photo. After a moment, he voiced his suspicions. "You dated Daryl?" he accused Jenna.
Orion felt a weight on his head as he absorbed Danica's revelation. "So, Jenna became Daryl's girlfriend?" he asked his sister, his anxiety growing with the newfound knowledge. "That just doesn't add up," he mumbled, prompting Danica to pay closer attention. "Why not?" Danica inquired, her confusion evident. "Daryl used my sports car to pick up Jenna that night," Orion explained as he retrieved his laptop. He proceeded to show Danica some images of his sports car, the vehicle Daryl had utilized during the accident. "Daryl had someone in the sports car. I noticed strands of hair in my car, and they were a match for Jenna's. During the investigation interview, Jenna came close to confessing that she had been in Daryl's car, but Erin intervened. "We were genuinely puzzled by their responses – none of them seemed to align with the events of that night. Erin, too, was in the dark about what truly transpired because she was heavily intoxicated." Danica's expression soured. "You m
"I am certain that Jenna is accountable for the situations where Erin was endangered multiple times," Orion asserted. The description obtained from the man they apprehended at the hotel corresponds with Jenna's appearance. "But why did she only find the courage to harm Erin now?" Marco questioned. "The threat to Erin's life emerged when the agreement between Arvesso and Erin was announced. We apprehended the man just after the anniversary of Daryl's death," Orion explained. "You're right!" Marco mused further. He remained eager to comprehend the depth of their findings. "I need to reveal the truth to Erin!" Orion declared. Now armed with the knowledge that they had been manipulated by Jenna. They both appeared drained, staring blankly as they absorbed the revelations, processing the weight of the situation. Marco broke the silence, expressing his concerns. "I regret having to bring this up, O. Now that you're aware of the truth, what's our next move? It's challenging to take leg
Orion's expression darkened into a scowl as he picked up Erin from Zach's house and escorted her to her penthouse. Without uttering a word, he headed straight to his room and forcefully slammed his door. Feeling tension in the air, Erin massaged her temples, struggling to grasp the depth of Orion's jealousy. Fortunately, this time, he refrained from causing a scene at Zach's house as he had done in the past. Taking a seat on the spacious couch, Erin retrieved her laptop and set it on the center table. Seeking solace, she chatted with her AI friend, 'How can one seduce a man who harbors excessive jealousy towards a close friend?' Numerous suggestions appeared on her screen, advising her: 'Prepare his favorite meal; they say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach.' 'Make his coffee.' 'Embrace and kiss him.' 'Ask him to join you for a date outdoors, and then send him a letter expressing your apologies.' Among these, Erin highlighted one that piqued her interest, rec
Erin instinctively stepped back, her eyes widening as she observed the anger radiating from Danica's gaze. "What the heck, Orion? What does this mean?" Danica's voice carried a mix of frustration and hurt, causing tears to well up in her eyes. Her whole body trembled with a combination of anger and emotion. Erin felt a lump in her throat and swallowed hard, glancing nervously at Orion. Fear etched across her face, she found herself rooted in place, almost as if she could see Daryl's ghost in the intensity of Danica's emotions. "Why is she with you?!" Danica's accusation echoed, drawing the attention of passersby in the bustling mall. "Danica..." Orion warned through gritted teeth, his jaw tightening with tension. Aware of the growing audience, Orion quickly glanced at the onlookers who had paused to eavesdrop. "Not now! We're in public, kid!" "I need an explanation!" Danica's voice carried desperation, tears streaming down her face. Onlookers could easily misinterpret th
Erin and Orion strolled hand in hand along the bustling pedestrian area of Senado Square. The atmosphere was adorned with enchanting melodies from street musicians, casting a romantic spell over their evening. The enticing aroma of local delicacies filled the air, tempting Erin and Orion to sample some street food. They indulged in crispy egg tarts, almond cookies, and other delectable treats from the vendors lining the street. The couple ascended the iconic Ruins of St. Paul's to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. In front of a small kingdom of stars, Orion asked Erin, "How's your date with me?" "It's wonderful, O! This is my first time in Macau, and I'm thrilled you brought me here," she replied. A delightful flutter of excitement warmed her chest as she gazed at Orion. "Our first official date has been so enjoyable. We're a world away from work and problems. I'm grateful you brought me to this special place." Erin embraced Orion's waist. "I want to make you ha
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