Despite the miles that separated them, Bienley and Devon remained steadfast, their hearts brimming with anticipation for the day they could finally be together.Devon's internship had drawn to an end, and he'd graduated. For many, graduation marked the finish line of a long academic journey, but for Devon and Bienley, it was merely the beginning of a new chapter.As the heir to the mighty Quintana Corporation, Devon plunged straight into his real training, foregoing his graduation ceremony without hesitation. The agonizing separation from Bienley continued to test their bond.Meanwhile, Bienley embarked on his second year of university. As a crucial precursor to his hospital internship, his plight into the hospital environment was about to begin.Like most medical students across the country, Bienley and his friends had set their sights on Dalton Medical Center, applying for the position of clerical student interns."What do you think about our chances at Dalton Medical Center? Do you
"Josh!" The sharp cry cut through the peaceful silence of the lounge, and Josh nearly jumped out of his skin as Bienley burst through the door, his face ashen and his eyes wide with unbridled terror. "Bienley, what happened?" Josh and Kit, who had been sitting in a corner, chatting casually, instantly leaped to their feet and rushed towards their friend. "What is wrong, Bienley?" Kit echoed, his voice tinged with alarm. As they reached Bienley's side, they couldn't help but notice the violent tremors wracking his body. Josh instinctively pulled Bienley into a warm, reassuring hug, while Kit grasped his hand tightly, as if trying to transfer some of his own strength into their shaken friend. "What happened?" Josh repeated, his tone soft and soothing, despite the storm of worry brewing within him. He was desperate to know what had reduced Bienley to this terrified state, but Bienley remained silent, his lips pressed tightly together. This lack of response only deepened Josh's an
Bienley arrived at the doctor's lounge a full thirty minutes ahead of his usual time. A sense of foreboding had settled heavily in his gut. Dr. Wad's unwavering determination to report the incident the day before had set off alarm bells in his mind, and he couldn't shake the feeling that today was going to be a disaster.He dreaded the moment Dr. Tan would get wind of the complaint. He knew Dr. Tan well enough to anticipate the outburst of rage that was bound to occur. The man had a fiery temper and was known for not taking kindly to any challenge to his authority or reputation.As he waited for Josh and Kit, Bienley tried to use the time to go over his notes. But his mind was a whirlwind of worry and uncertainty. Every time he tried to focus reading, his thoughts would drift back to the impending confrontation. The words on the page blurred together, and he found himself rereading the same sentences over and over again without really comprehending them.Then, the soft click of the o
"I could see a substantial amount of support for Mr. Cullen," the director playfully said, his eyes sweeping across the crowded office. The room was filled with people, a silent testament to the matter at hand."We're all eyewitnesses to the incident, Director," Dr. Aira affirmed, her polite smile masking a hint of solemnity. "Well, this isn't an official proceeding just yet. I summoned Mr. Cullen today for a debriefing and potentially a cautionary word," the director explained, gesturing for everyone to take their seats. Yet, his words sent a palpable tension through the room. Everyone was on edge, trying to decipher the hidden meaning behind his statements. The director's gaze locked onto Bienley for a long moment before he shifted his attention to the rest of the group. His eyes were sharp, as if trying to read their thoughts."I've already received Dr. Wad's report regarding Dr. Tan's abuse of authority towards a clinical student intern. Moreover, I was informed verbally about
"Damn it!" Sam's eyes darted around the lobby, his mind racing as he attempted to size up the situation. He considered scouring all the ground-floor restrooms in search of Bienley. If Drey had made him wait, it was highly unlikely that Bienley had managed to get access to the elevator. Yet, the thought of Bienley deciding to leave the building sent a cold shiver down Sam's spine. The place was huge, and if that were the case, finding him would be an absolute nightmare. He'd either have to utilize the facility's resources to track him down or face dire consequences.The entire facility was outfitted with CCTV cameras, but accessing the system meant dealing with the head of security. And once the head security was in the loop about his mission, Devon Dalton would surely find out that his boyfriend was missing on the outskirts of a vast oil refinery, surrounded by all sorts of hazards."Do you remember what he looks like?" Sam whipped around to face Drey once more."Yes, Mr. Sam. I co
Dalton Security appeared in the lobby as a shadowy force, capturing everyone's attention in an unexpected and dramatic turn. People scattered in all directions, frightened, as the stern-faced men in sharp suits arrived. Their presence was so imposing that it sent a palpable shiver through the air.It was a sight straight out of a high-stakes thriller. Employees, wide-eyed and stunned, were witnessing Dalton's imposing security force in all its glory for the very first time. Whispers filled the air like a soft, ominous breeze."Why on earth have all of Dalton's security been summoned here?" one person murmured, their voice laced with confusion."Could there be some kind of lurking threat?" another wondered aloud, casting a nervous glance around.Indeed, it was an unprecedented scene. Never before had so many security personnel gathered within the lobby of Quintana Petroleum. It was as if a fortress was being threatened by adversaries. "Surely, this must be an emergency," someone else
In the quiet embrace of Devon's office, the air was thick with unspoken words and a tender intimacy. "You could have called me," Devon murmured softly, his voice a gentle caress. He drew in a deep breath, filling his senses with Bienley's uniquely sweet aroma, like a warm, comforting melody. As he did, his fingers ran through Bienley's soft, silken hair, as if trying to soothe away any lingering stress.The two were nestled together on the couch, a haven of warmth and security. Bienley had just finished the steaming bowl of noodle soup he'd craved, a simple pleasure after a long and arduous day. Now, ensconced in Devon's arms, he finally allowed himself to relax. It was only then that he'd realized how ravenous he'd been, his body and mind too preoccupied with the day's turmoil to register the pangs of hunger."I forgot my phone at the hospital," Bienley whispered, his eyes closed, the words slipping from his lips like a soft sigh. The tranquility of the moment was like a gentle l
Bienley's group had already gathered in the lounge area. The soft glow of the overhead lights cast a subdued sheen over the room as they waited for the administrative hearing to commence precisely at ten o'clock. The director, the committee members, and their internship coordinator were already inside, putting the final touches on the preparations for the hearing. Josh had brought his father along, and ever since they'd arrived, the elder man had been a pillar of reassurance for Bienley. "Nobody can rattle you, Bienley Cullen. Keep in mind all the things your father has always told you," Mr. Knight said, fixing Bienley with a piercing, intent gaze. "Yes, Mr. Knight. With all of you by my side, I'll be strong," Bienley nodded. There was an undercurrent of determination in his voice, bolstered by the elderly man's words. "We're all here to stand up for you, Bienley. Even though Dr. Tan wields a fair amount of influence, the committee has a reputation for handling cases like yours
"Good morning! Welcome to the Sunshine Montessori Parents' Orientation," the young woman greeted with an amiable smile, her voice warm and inviting. She looked expectantly at the two men who had just stepped into the bustling school hall. The moment they entered, a stir went through the room. Some of the people present couldn't suppress their giggles and hushed shrieks as they took in the sight of the strikingly handsome pair."We're here for Zack and Justin Dalton," the taller of the two men replied. His voice was deep and confident, cutting through the soft murmur of conversation in the hall."Oh, the adorable twins!" The girl beamed, her eyes lighting up. "May I please know your relationship to the twins?" she asked, her smile never wavering."Zack and Justin are our sons. We're their fathers, Devon Dalton and my husband, Bienley Cullen," Devon casually responded. As he spoke, Bienley offered a warm, friendly smile to the young teacher.The words dropped like a bombshell. A stunn
Bienley cut an incredibly dashing figure, dressed to the nines in a crisp white cotton shirt that clung gently to his form, paired with a cream - colored coat that exuded an air of effortless elegance. His loose chino pants fell in perfect creases, and on his feet were pristine white loafers, completing the look of immaculate handsomeness."The Casanova is still as drop-dead gorgeous as he was back in university days," one alumni whispered to another, their eyes fixed on Bienley with a hint of admiration."He's only gotten better with age," another chimed in. "There's a new ruggedness to him, more manly than ever."A curious murmur went through the group. "I wonder if he's still with that former gang leader," someone mused."I'm pretty sure they're still together," another replied confidently."Wow, really? How long has it been?""Must be a decade by now," came the speculative answer."That's quite an accomplishment, staying together for so long," someone else added."But why weren'
"Fin" The moment Bella's gaze laid on the humble house where her father and son had made their home, a rush of emotion welled within her. Tears brimmed in her eyes, spilling over and cascading down her cheeks in a silent testament to the depth of her feelings. The modest abode stood before her like a living, breathing memoir of the simple life they'd led. It was a typical house, its every nook and cranny bearing the marks of a simple and hard - working existence. "Father, why did you have to endure such a life? This is worlds apart from the life you were accustomed to," Bella choked out between sobs, her eyes flitting around the room, desperate to absorb every little detail. Bienley, wearing a tender smile, drew his mother closer to him in a warm embrace. "I had the most wonderful childhood right here, mother. The simplicity of our life never felt like a burden. In fact, it was a blessing. Father raised me with an abundance of love, and that was far more valuable than any
Bienley's grand introduction as the sole heir to the Vanderpool - Guillebeaux empire was nothing short of astonishing. The moment the news broke, it sent shockwaves rippling through the crowd, igniting a wild frenzy."What?""How could this be?""I'd been expecting an heiress, especially with rumors flying that the heir had inherited Madame Bella's stunning beauty.""He's undeniably gorgeous, a perfect male mirror image of Madame Bella Vanderpool.""So, the heir is a man, not a woman?""And he's in a relationship with CEO Devon Dalton, no less."A tidal wave of diverse speculations crashed over the guests as they stared intently at the stage. There, Dr. Bienley Cullen was being tenderly embraced and kissed by CEO Bella Vanderpool. In return, he wrapped his arms around her slender waist with equal affection, their gestures speaking volumes.The simple yet intimate interactions between the rumored heir and his renowned mother seemed to confirm their relationship beyond a shadow of a dou
Carlisle stood with an unreadable expression, his eyes fixed on the seething guests. Their angry mutters filled the air, a chaotic symphony of indignation. "These people have no sense of decorum. All they want is a free meal and a chance to guzzle our drinks," one guest hissed."They need to be put in their place!" another chimed in, her face red with anger."If we don't toss them out, this whole event will be a disaster," a third added, their voice shrill with panic.The enraged guests turned their venomous glares on Bienley. But the young doctor remained unperturbed, meeting their scornful looks with a calm, unwavering gaze. Carlisle took a step forward, his presence commanding. He raised his hand, and the room fell silent, save for the occasional indignant huff. "Ladies and gentlemen, you were invited here for a purpose. Don't squander this opportunity by causing a scene. Keep to yourselves," he said, his voice firm and authoritative. The guests, though reluctant, clamped their
The opulent grand ballroom of Guillebeaux Hotel and Casino blazed with a dazzling radiance. Above, crystal chandeliers shimmered like constellations, their warm, golden glow cascading over the exquisitely attired guests. Waiters glided through the throng, their trays laden with flutes of bubbling champagne and bite-sized, mouthwatering hors d'oeuvres that seemed like edible works of art."Word on the street is that Madame Bella Vanderpool is set to unveil her heir to the world tonight," a clique of affluent women, swathed in designer gowns and dripping with diamond jewelry, tittered among themselves. Their laughter was like the delicate tinkling of fine crystal."Rumor has it that her heir has inherited her ageless allure," one of the women leaned in, her voice a conspiratorial whisper, eyes alight with intrigue."She has a daughter? How on earth has this been kept under wraps?" A collective gasp of astonishment rippled through their tight-knit circle."That's the mystery that has ev
Bienley stared deeply into Bella's teary eyes, where a river of tears cascaded down her cheeks. Her words of unwavering assurance, coupled with the raw pain of anguish that reflects in her gaze, finally unearthed the truth he'd been starved of for far too long."Mama will never, ever abandon you, my precious little Prince. You are the very breath of Mama's life. That faint, flickering hope deep in my heart, the one that whispered someday I'd find you, kept me going, kept me alive through the darkest of days." She traced his face with a yearning touch, as if trying to engrave every contour, every freckle into her memory.Bienley closed his eyes, surrendering to the delicate, feather - light touch of her soft hands. In that moment, this tenuous connection felt like a salve to his broken, battered soul, mending the cracks that had formed over so many lonely years."Mama," Bienley choked out, launching himself into her embrace. His arms wound tightly around her slender waist, and he nest
"Oh my god, Lander!" Bella gasped, the sound tearing from her throat. And then, she was overtaken by another bout of heart-rending sobs. The pain that had been pent up for so long was now erupting in a flood of emotions."Bienley? Are you certain?" Señor Quintana, usually the picture of composure, asked in a voice that betrayed a slight tremor. His once-dull, aged eyes now reflected a tenderness that was rarely seen, as if a long-buried emotion had been unearthed."Yes, grandpa. He looks just like my father. Even though the photo was taken when he was quite young, I could never mistake him for anyone else," Bienley said, trying his best to convince them despite the confusion swirling within him. His words were a mixture of certainty and bewilderment."Oh, god," Damon Quintana looked at his wife, whose expression mirrored his own surprise. The old man closed his eyes tightly, as if in deep, silent prayer. He rubbed his face with both hands, looking utterly tormented, as if the weigh
"Love, I'm right here. Just relax. As long as I'm by your side, no one can harm you," Devon murmured softly into Bienley's ear, sensing the turmoil within him. "I'm so scared," Bienley whispered tremulously, his trembling hands clutching Devon's. Bienley felt a strange numbness wash over him. His head started to pound as he grappled to make sense of the bewildering situation. A storm of conflicting thoughts whirled through his muddled mind, and he had the unsettling sensation of being adrift in a sea of overpowering emotions, with no clear destination in sight."I'm here with you. Whatever this is, we'll face it together," Devon said, drawing Bienley closer and enfolding him in a warm, reassuring embrace.Bienley was secretly glad that he'd allowed Devon to come along when the latter had insisted. Right now, Devon's possessive nature seemed like a blessing.They were then led into a vast room, huddling close to one another as they followed in silence. As they stepped inside, they