I couldn't pinpoint the exact moment it all began. The grip around my waist loosened without my notice, causing my heart to race even faster. I attempted to put some distance between us, feeling like I was running out of air, yet his kiss only intensified. His labored breathing, our combined heavy breaths in the midst of the silent night, were gradually but surely making me feel raw and vulnerable.
"H-Hector..." I murmured as we briefly parted. The weakness in my knees led me to lean against his chest. "W-why are you here?"
As I struggled to catch my breath, I met his gaze. His widened eyes locked onto mine. The way he bit his lower lip added to his allure. Captivating... his intense, slightly intoxicated gaze seemed to drown out any sensible thoughts. I couldn't help but wonder if this was always my reaction every time he claimed my lips.
"You seem to love wearing skirts like this, don't you? I don't approve," he murmured as his hand slowly roamed over my chest.Each touch sent shivers down my spine, quickening my breath and causing me to lose myself in the moment.His hand had already found its way to my thigh, continuing to kiss my neck as he did so. I felt my resistance wane with the weakness seeping into my limbs. With a subtle motion, it seemed a part of my skirt shifted right into the middle."This is why I dislike you wearing a skirt. I don't want you to be so accessible... unless it's me."I nudged him slightly at his words. "You don't control me—"I halted once more when he silenced me by lightly tugging my lip. I surrendered to the sensations a
I observed Ayanna's sharp gaze fix on me before she turned to face Hector, who in turn looked at me with an inquiring expression. His eyes seemed to be searching for something, and I hurriedly avoided making eye contact with him."You didn't respond to my messages, but of course, I'll be here. Anton called me too. You're going to the resort today, and the bidding will commence," Ayanna informed Hector.I intended to leave, having no part in their affairs, but as I turned, I froze when Hector called my name."Solei." His voice held a deep gravity that felt almost threatening. I swallowed hard before meeting his gaze."W-why, sir?"His jaw clenched, prompting me to look away. Dealing with this man was always a challenge.
"Shit…" I heard him whisper. His brow furrowed even more."I can't bring you inside the conference room," he said, making it sound like a major concern."I'm fine out here," I replied with a shrug, attempting to withdraw my hand as it was getting sweaty, but he seemed insistent, leaving me frustrated."I can't leave you here alone," he said, turning somewhere as if looking for someone."She'll be fine here alone, Hector. I told you not to bring that woman here," Ayanna said, shooting a sharp look at me.I couldn't help but feel irritated every time she mentioned that name."If you're still not getting it, Ayanna, just stop being a nuisance to her," he simply said to the wom
"I have to get back to the barn," I told him groggily, adjusting myself.It was only then that I noticed I was wearing different clothes, and the dark outside signaled the lateness of the hour. Where are we? Where did he take me after what happened? What time is it now?"You need to rest—""I'm fine, Hector," I cut him off, standing up.I needed to get home; I was sure Amari was worried about me. His earlier conversation was disturbing. Who was he talking to? What were they discussing?"Hey…"His voice softened as he suddenly grasped my hand. I turned to look at him. His expression shifted, the fear and anger I'd seen earlier when he confronted Ayanna were gone.
"I don't even know if what that man is saying is true. Why should I go home?" I lazily told Erika and pretended to be busy slicing the ingredients of our dishes today.But the truth is that what he said still bothers me. There were many things I did not understand, but only one stuck in my brain — the last will and testament said. How can papa have such a thing, when we are not rich?He almost wanted his body to be two just so he could earn twice as much at work. What last will and testament is he saying? And he even wanted me to go back to Manila just to talk to him regarding that matter.As if I'd go back there just because he said so. I have no basis for all the things he explained to me last night so why would I follow him?But I wondered even more about myself
"Really? Then go upstairs, Apollo hasn't eaten since yesterday. I don't know if that guy was planning to starve himself to death after he failed at leaping from the second floor of the hotel."My eyes widened as I turned to him, taken aback."What?"He chuckled."Just messing around. There's food in the kitchen. Take it up to him. He's not receiving any guests, but if it's you, maybe he'll agree," he laughed and winked at me.My whole face blushed furiously and I felt like I might combust from embarrassment. I nervously bit my lower lip and headed to the kitchen. There, I found a tray with food and tea, so I promptly picked it up and made my way to the guest room where he was resting.
RikaSee you soon. Come back soon!Rika's last message brought a smile to my lips. Her enthusiasm for my return was palpable, but I opted not to respond. Instead, I observed my daughter, immersed in a book, gently murmuring the words as if crafting each one herself. I couldn't help but cherish her bright mind, so much like her father's.Exiting the airport, I wore my shades, hoping to shield myself from the world. My heart, however, continued its raucous beat, a blend of nervousness and anticipation. The moment we stepped outside, I spotted Elena, beaming and waiting for us. Her joy was infectious, joined by the equally excited faces of Via and Riley."Ana! You're here!" Elena's exuberant voice echoed as she rushed in for a hug. Via and Riley followed s
I turned my gaze away from the trio and took another sip of beer. Even before I could respond to Via's questions, my cell phone suddenly rang, and all our attention shifted to the table where it was lying. My heart raced when I saw the number on the screen."Oh, that might be the answer," Elena said, already having pressed the answer button and pointing at me."There it is," Riley whispered.Irritation prickled in my mind, and I hastily grabbed my phone, giving them a sharp look. Via just smiled.Darn it! They won't give me a break until I'm overwhelmed.I stared at my phone for a moment before finally rising and moving a little further from the three of them. I put it to my ear, but all I could hear was his heavy breathing. I wasn't sure whether I should speak or not."Hey…"I shuddered when I heard his hoarse voice on the other end. I bit my lower lip and glanced at the city lights. I didn't even know what to say. Darn it!"Where are you? I'm already in Manila," he said, sighing hea