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21. Pretending
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2024-10-29 19:42:56Related chapters
Romance With The CEO 22. Maya and Reality
Lucas was disturbed from his deep sleep. There were faint murmurs that disrupted him. He woke up and found the source to be Velia. Velia appeared restless. Her sleep was troubled, as if something terrible was disturbing her. Something like... ~ “What did you forget about what I said? How many times do I have to tell you? Look at who you are.” “No. Please.” “Oh, of course. The lowly nature of your parents truly flows in your blood, Velia.” “No. Not my parents.” “So, go. Go as far as possible until Lucas can never find you again.” “I promise. I will go.” “I'm not joking. If you still get close to Lucas, I will ruin your life.” “I promise. I will stay away from Lucas.” “I'll hold you to your promise, and if your life falls apart someday, don't be surprised. It means you've broken your promise.” “I won't break it.” “Don't let Lucas find you, or else I can do anything. Starting with your parents.” ~ Sweat dripped. The murmurs grew louder. Velia appeared tormented, trapped in
Romance With The CEO 23. Consideration
Indeed, it is normal for Velia to wake up feeling tired. Since she entrusted her life to Lucas, there has not been a truly refreshing sleep for her. Especially after last night. She had a terrible and horrifying nightmare. Not only did Velia's body feel exhausted, but her soul was also shaken. Apparently, Lucas's caresses did succeed in putting her to sleep. However, they were not powerful enough to banish the terrifying images from her mind upon waking up. “Luc?” Rising and holding the blanket to her chest, once again Velia did not find Lucas by her side. She glanced at the clock and realized it was still early in the morning. Velia put on her nightgown and got out of bed. She searched for Lucas's whereabouts until her steps led her to the kitchen. “Are you awake?” Lucas was already dressed neatly, complete with a white shirt and tie. He looked fresh as he prepared breakfast. “Yes,” Velia nodded awkwardly. “Y-you prepared breakfast.” “Just sandwiches. It's not difficult.” Luc
Romance With The CEO 24. Meeting
Days passed. During that time, Velia realized something. Lucas was always there with her. Seven days a week, without exception. Velia finished preparing breakfast when Lucas arrived, looking neat and tidy. They sat down together. Lucas wiped his mouth. He finished a glass of water and asked nonchalantly, “Is there something you want to say?” Velia snapped out of her reverie, and Lucas stared at her. His gaze seemed piercing. “You've been watching me all this time,” Lucas continued. “I thought there was something you wanted to say.” Velia should not have been surprised. He seemed careless, but in truth, Lucas was very perceptive. Nothing escaped his eyes. Regarding Lucas's perceptiveness, Velia realized something else. There was no point in lying to him. Trying to be dishonest with him was the fastest way to invite trouble. “I remember you once told me that you gave me this apartment unit to make things easier for you.” That was enough. Velia did not need to explain the details.
Romance With The CEO 25. Planning
Ricardo entered hurriedly and slammed the door shut. His loud voice startled the deputy who was engrossed with the computer. “Vonda,” Ricardo called as he walked towards his office door. “Call Mecca. Tell her to meet me right away.” “Yes, Sir.” Entering his workspace, Ricardo quickly grabbed a glass of water and downed it in an instant. Sandra's command left him breathless. A knock on the door caught Ricardo's attention. He hurriedly sat behind his desk and exclaimed, “Come in.” The door opened, and Mecca entered. She smiled politely as Ricardo motioned for her to sit. “What's the matter, Sir?” Ricardo wiped the sweat off his forehead with a tissue and squeezed it. He tried to smile to suppress the escalating panic. “I want to ask something,” Ricardo said, hoping not to raise suspicion. “How is Velia doing?” Out of the many reasons Ricardo could have called her, this possibility was unexpected for Mecca. Confusion immediately appeared on her face as she answered. “Velia seems
Romance With The CEO 26. Thank You
“Oh my goodness, Luc! I can't believe what you did to Clarissa. How could you, Luc? How could you leave her alone while you came home?” Lucas closed his eyes dramatically. Honestly, he was not surprised by his mother's anger. On the contrary, he was surprised that Sandra had not contacted him after her encounter with Clarissa earlier this evening. “I was exhausted and couldn't wait for her just to have a cup of tea,” Lucas said, taking off his glasses perched on his nose. “I have more important work than her.” The laptop lit up, displaying the graphs Lucas was reviewing. Sandra's call came at an inconvenient time, and he had to momentarily leave his work. Sandra's audible sigh came from the other side. It seemed that his mother needed to calm herself before continuing the conversation. “Fine. Let's forget about this. How about Sunday night?” Vaguely, Lucas frowned. “What's happening on Sunday night?” “We haven't met since we went to Jakarta. Wouldn't it be nice if we had dinner
Romance With The CEO 27. Looking For
Lucas was certain he would never grow tired of that sight. Specifically, in the kitchen, where a woman was busy with cooking utensils and ingredients. Velia was preparing breakfast with a casual appearance. She was still wearing last night's nightgown and had only washed her face. It was strange, but it looked charming in Lucas' eyes. The stove went off. The sound of utensils ceased, and Velia turned her body to reach for a plate, her gaze meeting Lucas at the doorway. “Oh my, Luc.” Velia was startled, but Lucas grinned instead. He took a step forward, approaching Velia, who was repeatedly patting her chest. “I surprised you.” “W-were you there the whole time?” Velia asked. “What were you doing?” Lucas simply shrugged briefly in response. His focus shifted to the contents of the frying pan. He needed to confirm what Velia was cooking, although the aroma wafting through the air had already given him a clue. “You're making fried rice.” Velia nodded, and Lucas' remark reminded he
Romance With The CEO 28. Each Other
“So, it's true?” Lucas raised his face with both hands resting on the table. He looked at Vlora with a serious gaze. “Did Ricardo request Velia's return?” Vlora nodded. “Yes, Sir.” The questions continued in a chain. The truth only fueled more curiosity, and the strangeness grew stronger, causing Lucas to furrow his brow. Vlora remained silent, not saying anything as Lucas pondered several things in his mind. Calling Velia back was not enough. Ricardo even pressured the HR department to expedite the process. There was something I don’t know here. Lucas was certain that compassion was not one of Ricardo's traits. He would not forget the middle-aged man's anger when Velia bumped into him. The oddity became more apparent. Ricardo, who had wanted Velia to be fired the most, was now doing the opposite. So, what was it? Why was Ricardo insisting on calling Velia back? Questions kept popping up and filling Lucas' mind. He clenched his jaw in frustration at his lack of knowledge. “
Romance With The CEO 29. Hidden
Sharp-eyed Lucas aimed at Vlora. The secretary seemed slightly intimidated but held her ground when faced with the same question again. “Are you serious about what you said?” “I am serious, sir,” Vlora confidently replied. “I'm sure I didn't mishear.” Lucas did not say anything further. At least for the past two years, Vlora had proven that her words were never wrong. “Okay.” Vlora gave a brief nod before leaving Lucas' room. Silence quickly enveloped the room, albeit not for long. Lucas picked up his phone and dialed a number. Without much waiting, the call was answered. “Saturday?” It seemed that Lucas had a busy schedule for the coming Saturday. From accompanying Velia for shopping, having dinner with family, and meeting with colleagues. “Alright.” The call ended at the right time. The door opened again, but it was not Vlora who entered. Instead, it was Andreas who came in and immediately took a comfortable position on the sofa. “Good afternoon, Luc.” Lucas placed his ph
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Romance With The CEO 72. Romantic Love
Life never promises constant happiness. However, at the very least, destiny will provide reasons why everything should continue.In the turning of time. In the changing of days. Alongside the ever-rolling moon.One reason resurfaces. It appears, reinforcing the belief that this is how destiny works.There are times when tears well up. There are times when anger blinds the eyes and rebels.On the other hand, there is also laughter bursting forth. There is also joy overflowing, reminding us how priceless it all is.Precious. Like the morning sunlight that falls again and warms the smile within Lucas's embrace.Gavin Hernandez greeted them two months ago. He was born healthy, lacking nothing. Plump and now enjoying the routines created by Lucas.When the morning sun rises on weekends, Lucas spends time with Gavin. They enjoy moments filled with jokes and laughter that only they understand. It's as if they have their own language for ever
Romance With The CEO 71. Go On
Love is never an easy thing. The beautiful tale of a princess and a prince living happily ever after is nothing more than a bedtime story. In reality, it's not as simple as expressing one's feelings and everything falling into place with joy.No, it's never that easy. Velia and Lucas have proven that. They were bound by a past that constantly tried to separate them. Resentment was deeply rooted in their hearts, ingrained in every breath they took, intertwining with their journey through life.They knew that suffering and anger would not easily fade away with a single apology. Realities and misunderstandings would forever remain as a chain of mysteries.Risk. A tremendous gamble. Velia and Lucas could have chosen to distance themselves as if they never knew each other. However, the love that grew between them had taken strong and deep roots in their hearts.There was no turning back. And even as they continued forward, destiny, with its whimsical ways, bro
Romance With The CEO 70. Always
“I'm pregnant.”Silence filled the room. The only sound that could be heard was Velia's whisper. She had been repeating the same words for a while now.Velia's mind drifted. Since returning from the hospital, she felt that the world had changed before her eyes. It felt different, leaving an indescribable sense of unfamiliarity.Everything felt empty. Everything felt uncertain.On the bed, Velia curled up, hugging her legs. Her head rested on her knees as the doctor's words echoed in her mind.“I'm pregnant.”A shocking reality was displayed right in front of her eyes. Velia could not deny the fact that there was now a life growing inside her womb, her and Lucas' child.“I'm pregnant.”Velia's breath caught in the onslaught of reality. The news came at a time when she had decided to leave everything behind. And one question arose.Is this the reason I needed?That questi
Romance With The CEO 69. Reason
Diana looked helplessly at yesterday's untouched cooking. Nothing had changed at all. Even the position of the parsley garnish on the dish had not shifted.“I'm sorry.”Velia entered the kitchen and could guess what the middle-aged woman was thinking. She felt uncomfortable, but there was nothing she could do.“I don't have an appetite. Lately, I've been feeling tired and just want to rest.”“It's natural for your body to feel tired if you don't eat. You have to eat to stay healthy.”Velia smiled lazily. “Today, please cook chicken soup, Diana. I want to take it to the hospital.”“Alright, Miss.”While Diana started her task, Velia chose to sit at the kitchen island. There was a bowl of fruit that she could enjoy and a topic brought up by Diana.“Do you know that Neil got fired?”The fork stopped moving. Diana's question made Velia furrow her brow.
Romance With The CEO 68. Desire
“Is Lucas inside?”Vlora nodded in response to the man who suddenly appeared in front of her. He seemed hurried, with a racing breath. Not as relaxed as usual.“Okay. Thank you.”It was none other than Andreas. He looked relieved with the nod Vlora gave him. Some of his worries eased, but he had to meet Lucas immediately.Andreas started to walk away, but something made him stop in his tracks. He turned around with one hand raised in the air. Then he spoke.“Oh, before I forget. After I'm done with Lucas, you have something to discuss with me.”Vlora's eyes widened. Unfortunately, she could not express her objections as Andreas had already walked away.Andreas opened the door. He entered and was met with Lucas's listless gaze. Lucas looked miserable, but he reassured himself. At least it was a sign that Lucas was still alive.“How are you?” Andreas asked without beating around the
Romance With The CEO 67. Good Bye
Lucas did not budge at all. He sat still in the living room, enduring the uncertainty, waiting with a fixed gaze directed towards the door.It would open soon. Velia would come home.It was nearly nine o'clock at night. Lucas had been waiting for almost six hours. However, that meant nothing to him. He could wait longer if it concerned Velia.Lucas took a deep breath. For the umpteenth time, he tried to suppress the urge to forcefully bring Velia back from the hospital.Damn jealousy. Lucas truly wanted Velia to come home right at that moment.A glimmer of sanity managed to warn Lucas. Their situation and Velia didn't need to be aggravated by further conflict. Everything that had deteriorated could become even worse. Forcing Velia would only pour gasoline on the flames.Lucas tried to stay calm. He tried to be more patient.Velia would surely come back to me. She would definitely come home. She'll be home soon. I just nee
Romance With The CEO 66. Behind The Tears
Velia screamed. Her eyes closed, and in the explosion of her heart, she rebelled. She wanted to break free, but the embrace held her tightly.“Why did you stop me, Luc?! I can't bear to live anymore!”Lucas could see the truth in Velia's words. His clear eyes were more than enough to convey the pain. There were too many wounds and tears there. She had surpassed her limits to endure.“Let me go, Luc! Let go!”He would not. Lucas tightened his embrace, disregarding Velia's resistance. He let her continue shedding tears and delivering punches. It did not matter; he would accept it all. Whatever Velia did, however much she wanted to, he would accept it.“I just want to die, Luc. I can't take it anymore. Please, let me die.”“No. I beg you,” Lucas pleaded in a hoarse voice. All his sadness was palpable, and he begged desperately. “Don't do that.”Velia did not care. Lucas's pleas
Romance With The CEO 65. The Different Wounds, The Same Pain
Lucas could only tightly hold Velia's fingers. He remained motionless, staring at her pale face while attentively listening to the doctor's words.“She's just in shock. There's nothing to worry about. Her condition will improve after sufficient rest.”At least there was something to relieve Lucas. The worries and panic that arose from Velia's fainting gradually faded away.“Thank you, Doctor.”The doctor nodded. “Excuse me.”“Let me walk you out,” Vlora said as she accompanied the doctor's departure. They left, leaving Lucas overwhelmed with guilt.Lucas cursed himself endlessly. He continued to blame himself for all the realities and past events that had occurred.Indeed, everything that had happened was caused by Lucas' feelings for Velia, which could not be prevented.Lucas loved Velia deeply. Ironically, it was that love that became the root of all the misfortunes that befell
Romance With The CEO 64. Tears of Two Hearts
Velia had just finished a late lunch. The sun had descended to welcome the afternoon, and the lingering pain made her almost sleep throughout the day. The ache persisted. Velia's steps were somewhat unsteady as she intended to return to her room. She walked slowly and found Lucas's presence. “Why are you home already when it's not yet office hours?” Velia furrowed her brow and looked at Lucas, puzzled. His appearance was disheveled. No black suit, part of his shirt was out of his pants, shirt sleeves haphazardly rolled up to the elbows, and a loosely tied tie around his collar. “Luc!” Velia's readiness was caught in her throat. Lucas's messy appearance was nothing compared to the bandage on his forehead. Velia approached Lucas. Her hand rose and grabbed his face in panic. A clear look of concern radiated from her eyes. “What happened, Luc? What happened to you?” Velia asked, searching and worrying if there were other injuries.
