Chapter 6: The Jealousy

"Love is like war, easy to begin but very hard to stop." - H. L. Mencken

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Alessandra's POV

We were both standing in front of my door as I fished out the key from my purse. Stavros waited patiently behind me. I got even more conscious because I could feel his eyes boring into my back.

Obviously, he invited himself again, not giving me a choice. After like a decade, I unlocked the door.

I heard Lucy's laugh, sounds like she's not alone.

"Hey, Ali." She got up from the couch when she saw us, and I noticed the guy beside her. He's strikingly handsome in his own way. He even had an ocean blue eyes.

What's with all these handsome guys here in New York?

"Hi," I said, sheepishly looking at the guy.

Who is he?

I heard him acknowledge Stavros while I gave Lucy a hug.

"Ali, I want you to meet Mr. Alexander Russo." Lucy looked at Alexander. "Alex, this is my friend, Alessandra De La Vega. And Mr. Stavros Demakis, which obviously you already knew." She continued, smiling.

"Yes, Stavros is actually my friend," Alex replied as he looked at me, then he extended his hand and I took it. He seems nice and way warmer than Stavros. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Alessandra," Alex smiled from ear to ear and glanced at Stavros suspiciously.

"The pleasure is all mine," I replied shyly. "Please sit. Would you like anything to drink, Stav?" I asked as the two continued their interrupted conversation.

"Sure." He smiled.

"White or red?" I asked, raising my eyebrow.

"White, please." He winked casually.

What was that for? At least he knew how to say please.

I glanced at Lucy and Alexander. "Would you like me to get you another glass of wine, guys?"

"No, I'm fine." They said in unison. The two seem to get along well, and has a lot in common, even their responses were alike.

I made my way to the kitchen, opened the cupboard, took two glasses, and poured some wine for us.

I walked back to the living room and handed the wine to Stavros as I took the only spot beside him. I felt a bit uncomfortable, but I had no other choice.

Not long, everyone was having a good talk and we laughed at every joke.

Lucy looked so happy and I can see that she's bewitched with Alex's charm.

I can't blame her though.

If ever, I'm happy for her.

I looked at Stav and I caught him staring at me.

"Don't they look perfect together?" He whispered, and our close proximity started to unsettle me, disbalancing my just found momentum.

I felt one of his hands snake around my waist possessively. I looked at him, furrowing my brows, but he just smiled. I'm so confused with how he's acting. People say he's cold and austere, but he's acting oppositely. "Yes." I agreed and smiled, but it didn't reach my eyes, then I looked away as I tentatively sipped my wine.

The two guys are gone and now it's only me and Lucy, sitting on the couch watching some shows, but none of us is paying attention to it.

"So how's your date?" I turned my gaze to her. She looked at me and her eyes were glowing.

"I like him a lot, but I'm scared you know, he's a player."

"Maybe he'll fall in love with you and change in the process," I remarked, but deep inside, I'm uncertain.

"I don't know Ali." She said with a sad tone. "But I'm very happy when I'm with him. I literally can't think correctly when he's around me. The feeling is scary." She sighed heavily. I hugged her. She sounded traumatized. I don't remember her getting this serious to any guy she dated back in University. "Then go slowly. You'll do fine, Lu!" I comforted. She hugged me back and muttered 'thank you'.

After several minutes, we both headed to our respective rooms.

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Stavros' POV

It's been pretty busy this month. I'm tried to finish all the papers and contracts needed for the new business venture, the papers for the new ship my company just acquired, talking to business partners internationally, going to business meetings with my management team, and even going to a business conference in Italy for two weeks. And now, I just got back and I haven't seen Alessandra yet.

I missed her terribly. I have to see her before I leave for Greece again, for the Demakis Corporation Anniversary.

I was leaning on my chair, looking out the glass wall, staring blankly, when my cell phone rang.

I picked it up. "Stavros Speaking." I began without bothering to check.

"Hey Stav, it's Georgia." My childhood friend's excited voice rang in my speaker.

"Georgia! How are you?" I exclaimed happily. It's been a long time since I last talked to her.

Our parents were close, so basically we grew up and played together, but when we went to high school, she moved to Paris and studied there until university and I never heard of her since. Although her mom once said she worked as a chief editor of a very renowned fashion magazine in London.

"Great!" She sounds so excited. "Hey, I talked to your mom and she mentioned you're in New York. Guess what?"

"Yes?" I replied, smiling alone. She's very sweet and feisty. She's like the sister I longed for.

"I'm in New York!" She squealed excitedly. "There's a fashion show I need to attend, but not until tomorrow."

"Awesome!" I exclaimed. Yes, I missed her a lot.

"Are you busy right now?" She asked with a tinge of hope in her tone.

Well, I was thinking of dropping by at the Accounting Department to ask Alessandra for lunch, but maybe that could wait. "Not at the moment," I replied nonchalantly.

"What about having lunch with me?" She offered gleefully.

"Sure." I agreed shortly.

"Do you know a good place?"

"If you know my office address, then I know a very nice restaurant I'm pretty sure you'd like. It's five minutes from here. I'll meet you in the lobby and I'll drive us there."

"Sounds great. And your mom gave me your address, that's why I stayed at a hotel close by. Be there in 10." She dismissed and hung up before I could say something. I just smiled and stuffed my phone back in my pocket.

.........

Alessandra's POV

It's amazing how times flies. My job as a secretary is more exciting than I thought. What frustrates me is that I'm still thinking about Stavros and the kissed we shared. Not even sure if that kiss bothers him as much as it bothers me.

But who am I kidding?

He didn't show up after that. I might be the only one who is suffering from lack-of-sleep because of that darn kiss. I've heard nothing from him after that Saturday night. He might be busy with his mistress right now. And it hurts like hell just thinking about it.

I hate this feeling. "Argh..."

I have to keep in mind that he's a player. I shouldn't waste my time thinking about him.

I check my time. It's lunch break. I should text Lucy, maybe we could eat outside instead of in the cafeteria. Besides, Mr. Hernandez is not here.

"Hey, are on break?"

"Yes."

"Want to grab some food out across the building? There's a diner there. Should we try?"

"Sure. That would be great. I'm sick of the cafeteria's food. I'll see you in the lobby. I'll just finish this, it'll take five minutes."

"Okay :)"

I took my purse and headed to the elevator down to the lobby.

As I walked to one of the couches in the lobby, I saw a very sexy lady wearing a mid-thigh red dress, she looks like those models you see on Vogue magazines. That billion dollars look. She's escorted with—STAVROS?

Wait, what? I squinted to make sure my eyes were not playing with me. And yes, it was Stavros, in his signature blue Armani suit, looking devilishly handsome.

I could see that Stavros adored her. "Damn him!" I mumbled under my breath.

I turned my back briskly so he wouldn't see me and I also tried to hide my grim face. Tears were brimming in my eyes, threatening to fall. I pretended I didn't see them. I'm hoping he didn't see me either. I felt like I was stabbed a million times in my chest. It's crushing my heart into pieces.

Why would I feel this? He's nothing to me right?

The tears were too persistent. No, I can't cry here. I bit my bottom lip and heaved a sigh, forcefully pulling myself together, trying to hold back the tears. Then, I heard Lucy.

"Let's go!" She said happily. I looked at her and my eyes darted at the entrance. I didn't see them there. I bet they already left. Which is good because I don't want to see them close and cozy.

"Okay," I replied melancholy. We walked out the building and across the street. We passed by a few stores and entered the 'New York Diner'. We were seated in a lounge. The waiter took our orders and after several minutes, we were eating.

Lucy was observing me and I felt uneasy. "Are you okay?" She asked full of curiosity. Eyebrow crossed, while staring at me closely.

"Yeah," I responded with a very low tone, lacking conviction. My throat is so dry. I quickly chugged my water until it was half empty.

"I'm not going to press you today, but I hope you tell me tonight." She stated tenaciously. Lucy knew me well, but I still did keep things from her. I'm a bit more private compared to her.

This feeling I felt for Stavros is one of the things I'm not ready to reveal yet. I just met him, and I'm not even sure if it's real or because he's my first kiss and I'm expecting more from him.

"I am, Lucy." I insisted, looking into her eyes with reassurance. I did try hard to look impassive. She just stared at me and shook her head. We got back to work and, thank god, I finished my job without breaking apart.

...

Stavros' POV

It's almost five and I'm done re-reading and signing the documents that need to be forwarded to my management team in China, since I can't go this week. I need to be at the Anniversary.

I haven't seen Alessandra yet.

After lunch with Georgia, I got a call from China regarding the presentations and some documents.

"Andrea," I called from the extension.

"Yes, Mr. Demakis?"

"Bring me the employee's information records of the Accounting and Finance Department. Ask Ms. Hendricks." I said in a clipped tone.

I need to know some information about Alessandra. I don't have her phone number yet. Asking for the employee's sheet and looking for Alessandra's information is a better way to keep everything discreet.

"Right away, sir."

After like five minutes, she walked in with a big box full of folders.

"Just leave it on the coffee table," I ordered coldly. "You can leave Andrea, that's all for today." I waved my hand to dismiss her without tearing my eyes off the screen.

"Thank you, sir." She replied and then left.

I shut off my computer and moved to the couch facing the coffee table with a box full of folders. I started to scan each, looking for the D files one by one. Daria..Davison..De La Vega..

I quickly pulled the folder.

Name: Maria Alessandra Thompson De La Vega

Status: Single.

Sex: F

Birthday: May 8, 1988

Birth Place: Madrid, Spain

Mother's Name: Charlize Thompson

Father's Name: Javier De La Vega

Siblings: Carlos Juan De La Vega, Antonio Miguel De La Vega, Emmanuel Javier De La Vega

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Cellphone Number: 1-785-537-8822

Email Address: [e-mail]

She's the daughter of Charlize Thompson. My eyes widened in surprise. It never dawned on me.

No doubt she's a goddess.

I used to fantasize about her mother when I was in grade school. She was very famous back in the 90s.

I called Pancho to pick me up. I had to go home and change. I'll call her later. I definitely had to see her tonight.

As soon as I got home, I showered, and got changed.

I tapped my phone, browsing into my 'favorites' then hit her number and called. It kept ringing, but no answer. I tried again, but still no answer.

I wonder what she's doing.

I decided to just drive to her place instead. I arrived at her place around seven.

I knocked on the door.

After a few attempts, it opened, revealing Lucy. I felt a little bit disappointed, but I shook it off, plastering a warm smile on my face.

"Oh, hi." She said, looking surprised. "Come in!" She moved aside to let me in.

"I'm sorry for showing up without giving you a notice, Lucy," I said apologetically.

"Oh no..not a problem at all." She laughed it off as she waved off of her hand.

"Is Ali here?" I asked hopefully.

"She's in the washroom, please sit!" She motioned her hand towards the sofa. "Drinks?" She asked as soon as I settled myself on the couch.

"We have red wine, white wine, tea, and coffee."

"White wine will do, thanks."

"I'll be back." She smiled warmly.

"She's in the shower. That could be the reason she's not answering her phone." I mumbled to myself as I leaned my back against the couch's back support.

Lucy heard it and she nodded before completely turning her heel to the kitchen.

After a few minutes, she came back with a glass of white wine.

"Lu.." I heard Alessandra's voice calling from the stairs, then a footstep followed, trudging down. I look at her direction. "I can't find my phone, mom is expecting me to—" She didn't finish her words when she saw me. She looked surprised, with her mouth open, but I'm more than surprised.

She's wearing almost nothing. A skimpy towel was wrapped around her body, covering only her chest and barely half her thigh, her wet hair cascaded around her shoulders. Obviously, she just came out of the washroom.

My muscles instantly tightened. "Do you want me to ring it?" I heard Lucy say, which snapped me out before my wayward thoughts turned evil.

Then she realized she wasn't wearing anything other than the skimpy towel. Her cheeks looked flustered. "Please.." She said, then turned on her heel hastily and ran back towards the stairs, clutching the towel. "I'll be back." She said sheepishly as she scurried away.

She looks so goddamn hot! I longed to touch that smooth skin of hers and run my fingers to her thighs.

Why didn't she do modeling?

Instead of working as a secretary? Girls here are dying to be models. The fact that her mom is a well-known and highest paid model of her time also helps. She could be like her. Or better.

I don't know how long I was contemplating, when I heard her talk.

"What are you doing here, Mr. Demakis?" Her arms crossed over her chest. She looks mad. I don't understand why.

Maybe because I didn't see her for two months?

"I'm gonna have a shower, Ali." Lucy interrupted, then ran upstairs.

She still looked pissed. Eyebrows glued together tightly, pursed lips, and eyes as sharp as a dagger.

"I wanted to see you and maybe have dinner with you." I ignored her sudden temper.

"Why? Did you run out of girls to go out with?" She mocked, looking very annoyed. I cocked my eyebrows, confused. She sounds jealous.

"What do you mean?" I asked in confusion.

"Oh, you know very well what I mean, Stavros! You didn't show up for two months! I never heard anything from you and all of a sudden you are asking me to go out with you?" She huffed in exasperation. Her chest rises up and falls with each breath.

Man, she's really pissed! Her eyes were glowing like a hot iron ready to be burn something.

One thing struck me. Oh boy, she's jealous!

I grinned from ear to ear. She sounds like a nagging girlfriend. I'm loving it.

"That's why I'm here, babe. To make it up to you!" I can't stop grinning. I feel like I need some explaining to do. "I'm sorry, I got stuck with a lot of documents. And I was in Italy for a conference meeting two weeks ago." I walked closer and snaked my hands around her waist. She smelled divine. She tried to push me, but I held her tight.

"Oh no, Mr. Demakis." She said, trying to break us apart, but I didn't budge. "Busy, huh? So that blonde girl was a business you needed to attend to as well?" She huffed, pushing my chest with a disgruntled face.

Then it hit me. She saw me with Georgia.

Hell! She thought she was one of the girls I went out with.

I burst into a fit of laughter with my head falling back. She's really cute. She was looking at me incredulously and frustratedly.

I pulled her closer to me, my nose nuzzling her head. "Georgia is my childhood friend. She's just like my little sister. Nothing special." I explained, looking into her eyes, grinning mischievously. Her eyes softened and she blushes when a realization hit her.

I can't help it anymore, I bend down and kiss her lips, tasting every bit of her while my other hand skimmed her back and the other held her head to keep her still as I deepened the kiss. She tilted her head back a bit to meet my lips and kiss me back.

Her hands automatically wrapped around my neck and I held her tight that. She moaned and I took that opportunity. My tongue invaded her mouth, swirling around, and wrestling with hers. She tasted so divine, so addicting. And she's responding to my kiss with the same intensity.

I felt my arousal. I groaned. I pulled her away before I lost all my control. She looked at me, looking embarrassed, she's blushing. She stepped back, dropping her hands to her sides. "I'll just go and change, I'll be back." She said hurriedly and dashed away.

"Okay." I nodded, still feeling hot from the sensation.

...................

Alessandra's POV

I ran back upstairs to my room, still panting. Desire coursed through my blood, awakening every foreign sensation in my body. It's all new to me.

God, what just happened?

Why did I let him kiss me? And I even responded fervently. I can't trust my body. It seems like it has its own mind.

Wake up, Ali. He's not a keeper. He's a player!

What am I gonna do now?

I'm so embarrassed. I don't want him to think that I'm just like those girls he bedded. "Ok, pull yourself together, Alessandra." I mumbled as I heaved a heavy breath, trying to relax my nerves. "Don't let your emotions take control of your sanity. He's a man-whore, alright? After he gets what he wants, he's gone! Keep that in mind." I kept telling myself, talking to myself like a fool.

I counted to ten and breathed. It relaxed me a little bit. I had to control this feeling or I would end up crying.

I pulled out a skinny jean out of my drawer and paired it with a sleeveless polka dot shirt, I tucked it in and completed it with some flat shoes. I wore a small freshwater pearl earring to accessorize my whole outfit. One last look in the mirror and I was satisfied with what I saw.

I didn't put any makeup on since I'm not a fan of it. I look simple yet classy. I applied some lip gloss to my lips. I'm all ready.

I grabbed my purse and let out a deep breath, then I headed downstairs. "I'm ready," I said, approaching him. He stood up and took my hands, looking at me with admiration.

"You always look stunning." He complimented as his eyes skimmed me from head to toe.

"Thank you." I said, feeling conscious as the blush creeped slowly over my cheeks. "Let's go before I change my mind." I pulled my hands away and turned around to hide my face. He released me, but then his hand fell on my waist and led me to the door. I could smell his musky scent, with a hint of sea smell. So masculine.

His black Audi was waiting at the side of the road. He opened the front door for me. I quickly stepped in and soon we hit the road. I have no idea where he's taking me, but I don't really care. I just want this night to end. I don't know. This feeling is sometimes making me feel crazy. I miss him when he's not around and when he's around me, I want it to end.

We ended up at a fancy restaurant called 'Indochine'. It's a French-Vietnamese cuisine and it is perfect for intimate dinners and private events alike.

The luxurious tropical ambiance, origins, and natural furnishings include; Japanese box lights, palm trees painted on the walls, and a sleek tiled floor. It looks really elegant.

The food is superb. I enjoyed it as much as Stavros did. After the dinner, he asked me for a walk, which I delightedly agreed.

We walked along the sidewalk, hand in hand. I feel like he's mine. All the ladies we passed by were looking at me, with envy in their eyes, while the others were obviously ogling at him and ignoring my presence. Some were shooting me daggers, but he didn't care.

I feel proud.

"Did you like the food?" He asked suddenly as he looked at me adoringly. I looked at him and nodded. I'm still stunned by how fast everything is going.

"Yes, it's by far the best Asian dish I've ever had!" I replied truthfully.

"I'm glad." He grinned, looking satisfied. "It's one of my favorite restaurants." He looks so happy, and I just realized since I met him, he's smiling a lot.

I grinned.

He looks so boyish and carefree, not like the domineering CEO people dubbed him. "Want to grab some tea or coffee?" He asked.

"Sure!"

He came to a halt. "It's across the road." He smiled, then he looked both ways to check if the road was clear. Together we crossed, still holding my hand and walking in at a small cafe.

"What can I get you, sir?" The young guy behind the counter asked with a friendly smile.

"I'll get a medium Espresso Latte and for my girlfriend.." He paused and looked at me. "You, babe?" I was stunned for a second and my heart flipped with the endearment he just addressed me with, but somehow I managed to respond.

"Medium hot chocolate, please," I smiled and watched as the guy punched it in.

"Is that all?" Stavros asked.

"Yes."

My heart was flattered so I didn't correct him, besides I didn't want to embarrass him. And, who wouldn't like him to be her boyfriend? For sure tons are dying to be in my shoes right now.

"That's $6.46, sir." The guy said as he punched in again.

Stavros paid it with his credit card, carried our order, and walked to a lounge. I took the chair at the corner so I could lean back, and he sat beside me. I didn't say anything.

As soon as we settled in our seats, I quickly asked him. "Why did you tell the guy I'm your girlfriend?" I said almost a whisper, eyeing his reaction.

"You are my girl now, Alessandra." He whispered huskily in my ears while moving his other arm around my waist. "You're mine." He declared possessively while nuzzling my neck. I squirmed discreetly and tried to ignore the familiar feeling.

I carefully took a sip of my chocolate. "Since when?" I asked, trying not to falter as I glared at him.

"Since you responded to my kiss, baby." He declared pompously, grinning widely. He leaned back to his chair as he pulled his hand away from my waist, and leisurely sipped his coffee.

I felt my cheeks blush furiously.

I looked through his eyes, looking for any sincerity and boy, he is dead serious. "Okay stop. I'm not your girl and I'm not yours!" I stated firmly with authority. I hope he sees the seriousness in my eyes, but even I knew I sounded ridiculous. My head agreed, but my heart and body didn't.

"I know you like me too, Alessandra. You can't deny that. I would love to prove that to you right now, right here, but I don't think you would like it. Would you?" He proclaimed challengingly with a smug face.

As much as I would love to tell him he can't have me because I know that after he gets what he wants, he's not going to stay, I can't. I don't want to embarrass myself again, after I acted like a jealous girlfriend a while ago. And my damn traitorous body seemed to have its own mind, always defying me.

"I've never had a girlfriend in my life, Alessandra and I want you to be my girl. I want you to be mine." He declared sternly. Determination laced at every single word, interrupting my thoughts. His index finger stroking the rim of his mug and his eyes locked on mine.

"Really?" I can't believe he didn't have any girlfriends. What does he call those girls he flaunts around with? Different flavors every week. I mentally scoffed.

"So what about those girls you were parading with all over the parties you attended?" I blurted out unconsciously.

I mentally scolded myself for being tactless. I didn't mean to spill that out. I took another sip of my chocolate, trying to act casual after another embarrassing question. Here I am again, acting like a nagging girlfriend.

"They're not my girlfriends." He denied with his eyes smiling, teasing me. "Though they did provide me something I enjoyed very much, that's just about it! Nothing more, nothing less." He explained as he looked at me intently. His gray-blue eyes pierced into my soul. I looked away because I felt like he could read my mind.

I was so happy after his revelations, but is it enough to trust him? My heart says yes. But my head says no.

Hell! I like him, so why not try?

In my 23 years of existence, I've never had any boyfriend. "So if I ever agree, will you promise me to be loyal?" I asked, watching him closely.

"Yes, of course! I have no plans in looking for another girl. I already have you! I don't want to screw this up." He remarked earnestly and he bends his head and gave me a brief peck on my lips.

I smiled. With a genuine smile. Warm feelings filled my heart.

"It's late, we should go. Lucy will be waiting for me." I swigged the last content of my cold chocolate.

He groaned. "Okay." He stood up acquiescently, extending his hand to help me get up, which I happily took. Together we left the cafe and walked back to his car.

He dropped me off at my door. "I'll call you tomorrow, baby." He said as he bent his head down and kissed me. I wrapped my hands around his neck and kissed him back. He pulled me closer and deepened the kiss. Just as always it's breathless.

"Ahem." Lucy made a fake cough.

We instantly pulled ourselves away, feeling embarrassed. We didn't hear the door opening. Lucy was looking at us curiously. I know she won't stop nagging me about this later.

"Sorry, Lucy." He said, looking apologetically. "We got back late."

"Oh, no worries." She grinned with mischief. She gave me the you-can't-get-away-this-time look.

"Bye, babe." His eyes were teasing me and he gave me a quick peck on my lips. "I'll call you tomorrow." He smiled and left.

"What was that?" Lucy inquired as soon as Stavros entered the elevator, her hands crossed on her chest. "What's going on?" She asked again, raising her eyebrow.

I let out a deep breath. I looked at Lucy and tugged her inside, closing the door behind her.

"Stavros and I are in a relationship!" I exclaimed, smiling cheekily. Her eyes widened in surprise. Her mouth dropped open. Her face looked priceless! I giggled while nodding my head. "Yes, we are!"

Then, she recovered. "Okay, get the facts straight!!" She held both of my shoulders, looking at me in the eye. They were full of curiosity and disturbance at the same time. "Since when, María Alessandra?" I know she's dead serious since she called me by my whole name.

"Let's sit and I'll tell you, in detail."

We sat in the couch, facing each other.

I told her that when he dropped me off, from the club, I was supposed to get him water, but instead we kissed. I still don't know how it happened, but as far as I remember, I responded. Then, I told her about the first dinner date and tonight, when I acted as a jealous girlfriend and we kissed again. Lastly, I told her about when he called me his girlfriend to the 'Cafe Guy' and it melted my heart.

"So that's it?" She said incredulously. She doesn't look happy. "Ali, it's just a kiss. Besides, you know he's a player." She reminded me in her low voice.

"It's not just a kiss, Lu. He is my first kiss and I like him! I haven't had any boyfriend before. I want to see where this goes." I muttered defiantly, looking at her, pleading for acceptance.

"It doesn't matter if you like him or not Ali, you haven't had any experience with guys before." She explained, looking worried.

"I can handle myself, Lu!" I said with a hard tone. I feel like she's acting like my brother too. Over protective. But I didn't show her my displeasure.

"I hope so." Her face softened and she gave me a hug. "Are you happy though?" She asked, still hugging me.

"It's weird, I know. Knowing he's a player." I admitted softly. "But I'm happy!" I pulled her off me and looked at her.

"I like him very much! He seems really nice, despite what people say about him. I know he's cold to his employees, but I sense warmth in him, you know?"

"Then I'm happy for you."

"Okay, let's go to bed. It's late!" She stood up and I followed her as she walked towards the stairs.

"Did you talk to Alex?" I asked as we went up to our rooms.

"No. He's in Italy. Some family gatherings." She replied nonchalantly.

I turned to her as soon as I reached my room. "Goodnight Lu!"

"Night!" She said as I closed the door behind me.

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