ARIA’S POVWe were in no mood to shop. Today, the mall seemed kind of boring as well, and I spot no new collection. The lack of excitement in the air mirrors our own disinterest, and the absence of any intriguing finds dampens our spirits further.“Should we head to the bar instead? I’m bored here.”Finally I tell Stella because she seems far from fascinated of being here.“Thank God! Yeah! I want to get out of here and have a few drinks.”We giggle our way to the parking lot, for the first time, empty-handed. Despite the lackluster shopping trip, the camaraderie between Stella and me brightens the mood, and we share a light-hearted moment as we make our way back to the car.We reach to the very famous bar in the area, Cheers & Chill. As we step into the bar, the warm glow of dim lighting envelops me, casting a cozy ambiance over the space. The faint hum of chatter and laughter fills the air, mingling with the clinking of glasses and the soft melodies drifting from the speakers.The a
ARIA’S POVI don’t give them any time to think. With full determination, I charge at them, my movements swift and decisive. My focus is solely on protecting Stella and putting an end to their harassment once and for all. As I close the distance between us, adrenaline propels me forward, ready to confront them head-on and defend what's right.The dimly lit bar provides the backdrop for our confrontation, the air thick with tension as the other patrons look on in surprise and alarm.With a swift movement, I lunge towards the nearest assailant, aiming a precise strike at his midsection. His surprised grunt fills the air as my fist connects with his abdomen, momentarily winding him and giving me an opening to press forward. Before he can fully recover, I pivot to face the next attacker, my movements fluid and controlled.The sound of groans and curses fills the space as the altercation intensifies. Each blow I deliver is met with resistance, but I refuse to relent, fueled by the need to p
ADAM’S POVGeorge has been urging me to go out for a drink with him and the other boys, even though I'm not in the mood at all. My thoughts are consumed with Sophia and Aria, and I can't stop thinking about Nathan Wilson, who, I believe at this time, must be doing his best to court Aria.Thinking about both of them, makes my blood boil.Then, that effin nightmare of the other day, with Aria and my uncle in a lovemaking scene had to add to my already perturbed mind for some days now.As a matter of fact, George practically forced me to come here, dragging me to a place I have absolutely no desire to be.“Chill, Adam! Who knows, you might get lucky with one of those hot chicks staring at you, over there.”These supposedly attractive girls which George is referring to are not what I need. All I crave is Aria.“Not interested!”My mood is already sour, and George has been getting on my nerves, oblivious to what I've been through. If I were to reveal the truth about Sophia, perhaps he'd eve
ARIA’S POVAs soon as Neal found out that Stella and I were in the hospital, he rushed over and stood at the entrance, his face pale and eyes wide with fear. His usual calm demeanor was replaced with a frantic energy, and his hands were trembling slightly.The sight of his sister and girlfriend in such a vulnerable state seems to overwhelm him, his worry etched deeply into his features. He runs a hand through his hair, a clear sign of his anxiety, and his voice wavers as he asks if we are okay. The relief in his eyes when he sees that we are safe is palpable, but the lingering fear and concern are still evident.Just as his eyes fall on Adam, Neal stops at nothing to charge directly at him, his words sharp and laced with accusations."This is all your fault, Adam! Why is it when Aria gets hurt, you’re always around?!"His voice is filled with a mix of anger and desperation, each word striking like a blow. The tension between them is visible, and Neal’s usually composed exterior crumbl
ARIA’S POVOnce Neal apologizes to Adam, he turns to Stella, his face softening with concern.“Are you okay?”Neal’s voice is gently, his voice barely above a whisper. He reaches out, brushing a strand of hair from her face as he looks her over for any signs of harm. Stella nods, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, and offers him a small, appreciative smile.I find it a heart-warming sight, a tender moment amidst all the chaos. Neal’s protective nature is on full display, and it’s clear how much he cares for Stella. Adam’s eyes linger on them, a mix of emotions playing across his face—perhaps a bit of envy and a touch of admiration.As I watch Neal and Stella, I can’t help but feel a ray of hope peeping through the window. Despite the turmoil, there’s a chance for love and healing. Maybe, just maybe, things can start to get better from here. I just wish that Neal would confess his love for Stella and they can both finally take their relationship further.However, I can’t ignore the
ARIA’S POVAdam's release from the hospital brings a sense of relief, knowing that his wounds are healing. Not that I've been concerned or keeping tabs on his progress, especially with Sophia already there to care for him. Each time our paths intersect at the laboratory or Wellington Enterprises, Adam maintains his silence. He continues to operate under the assumption that Nathan and I are romantically involved, and I remain steadfast in my decision not to correct his misconception. “How is your palm now?”I notice his bandaged palm during the meeting and casually ask if he is alright. He smiles, reassuring me that he is feeling better.“I’m good, Aria. Thanks for asking.”While I am deeply grateful to him for saving my life, I can't afford to be around him too much, nor do I want to give him the impression that I owe him anything in return. In any case, assigning him a project is already my way of repaying the debt I owe him.On the other side, observing Neal and Stella's regular m
ARIA’S POVEverything is arranged for the event before I head out of the house. I shall be driven to the location alone, with my driver dropping me off. However, the bodyguards will follow closely behind in another car, ensuring my safety at all times.Once at the party, the bodyguards will blend in, mingling with other guests as if they are businessmen. We won't acknowledge each other, but they'll discreetly keep an eye on me, ensuring my safety without drawing attention. As soon as I enter the ballroom, I notice there isn't a single woman present nor anyone I know from the business world. The room is filled exclusively with men, which strikes me as quite fishy and raises my suspicions immediately.I can't even find the host anywhere. Typically, the host would be at the entrance to greet and acknowledge the invitees, but their absence only deepens my suspicion. I scan the room, my eyes darting from face to face, until they land on someone familiar.“Sophia? Here?”I mumble to myself
ARIA’S POVSophia walks toward me with unashamed confidence, her stride purposeful and bold. The audacity in her approach is striking, and I can't help but feel a mix of anger and curiosity as she closes the distance between us. Her demeanor radiates a fearless assurance that leaves me bracing for whatever she has planned next.“Aria! Nice to see you after so long!”As if I am glad to see her! Her bold approach only deepens my unease, but I manage to maintain a composed exterior, unwilling to give her the satisfaction of seeing my discomfort. Sophia hands me her glass of Champagne, and I know all too well that anything she gives must be adulterated. Her gestures are never without a hidden agenda, and this one is no exception. I accept the glass with a forced smile, my mind racing with suspicion and caution, fully aware that her seemingly generous act is likely tainted with ulterior motives.Then, she takes it a step further by introducing the man she's with. Her voice carries a note