I remained outside the hospital room, watching through the glass window. She seemed to be having a nightmare. Her face contorted, her body twitching underneath the sheets. Matt's eyes were filled with concern, he was almost panicking. He was holding her hand and speaking softly to calm her down as he stroked her hair. Such care and compassion. Very touching.He didn't even realize I'd been all by myself sitting right here.I took a deep breath, I couldn’t bring myself to go in. So I remained outside, resting against an arm pole besides me. A few minutes later, Matt stepped out, looking around. "Hey, Bryan's gone?," he asked, taking a huge heave of relief."I know," I replied. "He probably has an emergency.”Matt's expression turned thoughtful. "Okay, so…I’m curious. How does she know Bryan and Jasper? He eyed me intently. “It doesn’t look like it’s all about that day.”I hesitated, chuckling a little bit. “Things are actually more complicated than you think, Matt.”He stared at me,
QUINN’S POVI walked through the front door of my apartment, exhausted from my hospital stay. The past twenty four hours had been a blur of tests and treatments.Before leaving the hospital, I had been bored out of my mind, flipping through TV channels and scrolling through my phone.As I entered my living room, I dropped my bag onto the couch and collapsed beside it, letting out a deep sigh. I closed my eyes, feeling the softness of the cushions envelop me. Suddenly, my phone buzzed on the table.I reached for it, unlocked the screen and saw a message."Congratulations, Quinn! We are pleased to inform you that you have been awarded the prestigious Academic Excellence Scholarship."A mix of emotions swirled inside me.This scholarship is a gift, an attempt to buy my forgiveness just like when we’re kids. Just then, Eva emerged from the bedroom looking all concerned.“I didn’t think you were home.” I said, surprised.“Why didn’t you let me pick you up?” She asked as she settled beside
I set her down on the edge of the tub, quickly stripping off her wet coat and shoes."Get undressed," I ordered, handing her a towel.Her eyes were fixed on mine, holding a mixture of resistance and desperation."Please, Bryan," she whispered.What was she pleading for? But something in my chest twisted.I helped her out of her wet clothes, my fingers brushing against her chilled skin."Get in the shower," I said, adjusting the water temperature.She stepped under the warm steam, her eyes closing in relief.I stood there, lost watching her, my mind racing.What was I even doing, taking care of her?But I couldn't shake off the feeling that I needed to protect her. As Quinn showered, I fetched a change of clothes from my room and placed them on the bed.Soon she emerged, wrapped in a towel as I handed her the clothes."Put these on when you're done" I said, trying to sound detached.Her eyes met mine, and for a moment, I thought I saw something there. Something like longing but it quickl
QUINN’S POVI woke up to the sound of Bryan's gentle humming in the hallway, but my pounding headache and heavy body weighed me down. The memories of last night came flooding my mind, making my stomach twist and filling me with great regret.How could I have been so reckless? I thought, tossing my hands over my face, trying to hide them in shame.Bryan walked into the room, with a tray in his hands, and a warm smile."Good morning, beautiful," he added, setting the tray beside me.I blushed, shyly accepting it.It was a plate of scrambled eggs, bread and sausages."Did you have to?" I asked while savoring the scrambled eggs."I wanted to," he replied, gently stroking my hair as he laid a peck on my forehead.I felt the heat burning within me. Bryan’s constant stare only made things worse.I munched slowly, expecting him to get up soon and prepare for work, but he didn't flinch.He held onto the TV remote, switching channels." Aren't you working today?" I asked, attempting to deflect.H
Just another evening at the club, I silently cleared out the drinks someone ordered. The evening was just getting started and everyone was getting ready. Eva walked past me. We stay in the same house but somehow haven’t managed to hold a conversation for a while now.“Hey baby girl” she walked past, tapping me lightly.I hugged her. I’ve missed her.“You’ve been away, at home, working! What’s happening?”“Yes I have, and I’m back now.”“Busy with Bryan? She giggled and I nudged her playfully to behave. “He arranged your day off with Mr Jenkins yesterday. It’s quite fortunate.”I countered. “Not entirely. These few days haven’t been the most amazing. You did see the news, right?“Yes I did, they found him guilty.” Eva added and I nodded.“I feel bad, no matter what, they’re still family. In the space of two months, a lot of things are going down""And he hasn't admitted anything to you?" Eva asked.I shook my head vehemently. "Worse, he's still that gentle Bryan I know, yet he shows no
BRYAN’S POV"It's that time of year again - the winter vacation, finally! I exclaimed, leaning back in my office chair.A period where everyone's stress melts away.My mind drifted to Quinn. She's been overwhelmed lately, and this break would be exactly what she needs.And she'll be spending it with me.My business trip to Paris aligns perfectly. A time to seal crucial deals, and make unforgettable memories with her. Where Days of luxury, art, and romance awaited us. I’m sure my assistant has everything in check.I picked up my phone, dialing my assistant.“Come to the office. Now.”He arrived promptly. “Sir?”“Have you confirmed the Paris arrangements?," I instructed."All set, sir," he replied. "Villa, art studio, Louvre tour, transportation."I nodded, satisfied. “Good! Send a message to Quinn’s boss, confirming her extended leave.”“Her boss has already received my discreet call; her absence is approved. There will be no distractions tonight.I nodded, urging him to go out.I know
EVA’S POVI heaved a sigh of relief the moment I settled on the couch. It was such a hectic day, not having Quinn around.I needed to know how the trip went, so I dialed her number eager for an update. The phone cradled between my ear and shoulder. Her voice chimed in, sounding delighted."Eva! I'm so glad you called. We have just arrived, and Paris is stunning!"I grinned, envisioning Quinn's excitement. "I'm glad you're having a great time! Don't forget to take lots of pictures.""Already on it," Quinn laughed. "Bryan's been amazing as well”, she whispered, and I laughed."Make sure to spoil yourself rotten”"Will do," she promised. "What about you? How's life without me?"I laughed. "Same as usual, already missing you.She scoffed. “With my recent disappearance, I’ll probably lose my job after this trip.”“Our boss fears Bryan, he’d do literally anything he requests”, I reassured her."Nevertheless, I miss you too," Quinn said, her tone softening. "But I'll make it up to you with st
QUINN'S POVAs the plane touched down in Paris, I felt a thrill of excitement. Bryan, sitting beside me, smiled."Welcome to the City of Light," he said with sparkling eyes.Stepping off the plane, the crisp Parisian air refreshed me. I looked up at the majestic airport architecture."Wow," I breathed.Bryan chuckled. "You're going to love this city."My eyes widened as we stepped into the luxurious apartment. The sprawling living room, adorned with modern art and floor-to-ceiling windows, offered breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower."Welcome to our Parisian retreat," Bryan said, his eyes sparkling.I explored the expansive space, discovering a kitchen, a library, and a private balcony.I saw a small walkway, leading me to a stunning bedroom. My jaw dropped. The spacious room boasted an en-suite bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a majestic gigantic bed.Bryan walked in minutes later with them, carrying our bags behind him. He gestured to the luggage. "I took the liberty of packing for
BRYAN’S POV"I want to go home," she whispered.Exactly what I had imagined.Always running away when necessary, my grip on her tightened. I couldn't let her go. Not now, not ever."I'll never let you go," I muttered, my voice barely audible.Quinn's eyes widened, and she tried to push away, but I held firm."Bryan?" she muttered, her voice low and soothing.I didn't answer. I couldn't. My mind was racing with thoughts of losing her again.Why did she always want to leave? Didn't she understand that I have suffered enough, waiting so long for her?I knew her family had come to her for help. They have no option but Quinn. This time, I am ready. I will clear all obstacles, and make sure nothing stands in our way.I'll show her she's mine. I'll make her fall in love with me, no matter what it takes.My eyes locked onto hers, and I saw the fear creeping in. But I knew it was mixed with something else – an attraction.She feels it too. She just doesn't know it yet.————————-EVA’S POVAs I
I watched as Bryan made his way over to a tall sleek man who looked like he was in his late twenties, clapping him on the back and saying something in his ear.The man nodded in approval, looking like he was trying to make a quick escape. But before he could, Bryan grabbed the microphone again."And now, ladies and gentlemen," he called, "It's time to bring out the real entertainment."The room erupted into another round of cheers and catcalls as a group of strippers appeared from the shadows, dressed in lingerie and thong outfits. They made their way to the stage, where they began to dance and perform.I watched in disgust, feeling like I was trapped in some kind of bad dream. This was not the kind of place I wanted to be, and I definitely didn't want to be here with Bryan and his sleazy friends. It reminded me of the reason I avoided the VIP lounge on most occasions.But I was stuck there, at least for the rest of the night. And who knew what other surprises Bryan had in store for
QUINN'S POVI sat in the car, fiddling with my black glasses as I stared out at the sea of mourners gathered outside. Today is the day we say our final goodbyes to my father, the man who had once been the head of Sutherland Corporation.The company that Bryan now owned, and it is ironic that its investors had come crawling back after the ownership had been passed. The company was now one of the top three influential private businesses, and it seemed that his efforts would live on, even if he wasn't around to see it.I sat there, I couldn't help but think about mom. She is the reason I decided to attend this funeral, despite my reservations. She loved him, despite his flaws and all, and I knew that she would want me to be there for her today.I adjusted my scarf, making sure that it was securely in place. I managed to keep a low profile over the years, avoiding the blogs and the prying eyes of the public. Only a handful of people knew that I was my father's half-daughter, and I intende
QUINN'S POVI sat in the car, fiddling with my black glasses as I stared out at the sea of mourners gathered outside. Today is the day we say our final goodbyes to my father, the man who had once been the head of Sutherland Corporation.The company that Bryan now owned, and it is ironic that its investors had come crawling back after the ownership had been passed. The company was now one of the top three influential private businesses, and it seemed that his efforts would live on, even if he wasn't around to see it.I sat there, I couldn't help but think about mom. She is the reason I decided to attend this funeral, despite my reservations. She loved him, despite his flaws and all, and I knew that she would want me to be there for her today.I adjusted my scarf, making sure that it was securely in place. I managed to keep a low profile over the years, avoiding the blogs and the prying eyes of the public. Only a handful of people knew that I was my father's half-daughter, and I intende
I gasped, my eyes snapping open in surprise. "Bryan, what are you doing?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.He looked up at me, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Just relax yourself, my love," he urged.I felt a shiver run down my spine as he continued to suck on my toes. It was a strange sensation, but it was also strangely erotic.As he moved his mouth up my legs, I felt my desire growing. I reached out and grabbed his hair, pulling him closer to me."Bryan, please," I whispered, my voice urgent with need.He looked up at me, his eyes burning with desire. "Please what, my love?" he asked, his voice low and husky.I felt a flush rise to my cheeks as I looked at him. "I need you," I whispered, my voice barely audible."No! I need you to be my bride." He spat, and I wondered if we weren't already together. Is he requesting my approval right now ?--------------Bryan's eyes grew aggressive as he pulled me closer. His mouth went straight to my neck. I shivered from the effect."
QUINN'S POVI sat in the car, fiddling with my black glasses as I stared out at the sea of mourners gathered outside. Today is the day we say our final goodbyes to my father, the man who had once been the head of Sutherland Corporation.The company that Bryan now owned, and it is ironic that its investors had come crawling back after the ownership had been passed. The company was now one of the top three influential private businesses, and it seemed that his efforts would live on, even if he wasn't around to see it.I sat there, I couldn't help but think about mom. She is the reason I decided to attend this funeral, despite my reservations. She loved him, despite his flaws and all, and I knew that she would want me to be there for her today.I adjusted my scarf, making sure that it was securely in place. I managed to keep a low profile over the years, avoiding the blogs and the prying eyes of the public. Only a handful of people knew that I was my father's half-daughter, and I intended
MATT'S POVShe nodded, "Sure, we can, Matt. I'll see you around."I gave her one final hug, holding on a little tighter than necessary. "Take care of yourself, Quinn," I whispered.Quinn smiled and pulled back, her eyes sparkling. "I will, Matt. You too, okay?"I forced a smile, feeling a pang of guilt. "Yeah, I will."With one final glance, she turned and walked out of the club, leaving me to my thoughts.As I watched her, I felt this wave of sadness over me. It's been a while I've seen her lately, ever since that incident. Bryan was doing everything in his power to keep her safe, hidden away from prying eyes like Jasper's reach.I let out a deep sigh, the weight of my own secrets crushing down on me.How about me?I've been working for Jasper, but my interest in Quinn has never been about the job. It's always been about her. I took this job seriously after I got to know Quinn, and it's been her all along.If only she could see that I'm not like Jasper. If only she could learn to leav
Well, she laid still, or quietly.He got to her bed, stroking her hair gently as he smothered it across her face. Her eyes snapped open and he jerked. He thought she was asleep. She sat up immediately staring deadly into his eyesJASPER'S POVEarlier today, I got a call that she was finally awake. But Bryan was always hovering around, so I had no time to make a quick stop. He looked really restless when I saw him step out. Like he's not slept for days.He put her in this state and dare act remorseful? Did he forgot who he was?"Bryan Braxton" I chuckled.As I walked into the hospital room, I was taken aback by Quinn's fragile appearance. She looked like she'd been through a war. I felt guilty and concerned, knowing that I had a role to play in her current situation. If he wasn't trying to hid her from me, we wouldn't have been here."Hey", I called, walking towards her bed stand."I heard you were in admitted," I said, trying to sound casual as I handed her a bouquet of flowers.Her e
I gasped, my eyes snapping open in surprise. "Bryan, what are you doing?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.He looked up at me, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Just relax yourself, my love," he urged.I felt a shiver run down my spine as he continued to suck on my toes. It was a strange sensation, but it was also strangely erotic.As he moved his mouth up my legs, I felt my desire growing. I reached out and grabbed his hair, pulling him closer to me."Bryan, please," I whispered, my voice urgent with need.He looked up at me, his eyes burning with desire. "Please what, my love?" he asked, his voice low and husky.I felt a flush rise to my cheeks as I looked at him. "I need you," I whispered, my voice barely audible."No! I need you to be my bride." He spat, and I wondered if we weren't already together. Is he requesting my approval right now ?--------------Bryan's eyes grew aggressive as he pulled me closer. His mouth went straight to my neck. I shivered from the effect."