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.Days of luxury, art, and romance await. I’m sure my assistant has everything in check.I picked up my phone, dialing Jackson.“Come to the office. Now.”He arrived promptly. “Sir?”“Have you confirmed the Paris arrangements?," I instructed."All set, sir," Jenkins 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 she will lo
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
QUINN'S POVI stepped into the bedroom, my heart racing. Bryan lay on the bed, his eyes fixed on me."Hey," he said, his voice low."Hey," I replied, trying to sound calm.I approached the bed, unsure what to expect. Bryan patted the space beside him."Come here," he whispered.I hesitated, but my body moved of its own accord. I sat beside him, feeling his warmth.He wrapped his hands around me, pulling me close. His lips brushed against my ear."I've wanted to do this all night," he whispered.He traced my skin with his fingers, sending shivers down my spine. I leaned into his touch and he stopped abruptly.As the night wore on, my cravings became more intense, but he never crossed the line.I wanted him to continue touching me so badly, just like he did at dinner. But surprisingly, he slept, neglecting me.---The next morning, I woke up to find a different Bryan already up and about. He was dressed and ready to leave, his eyes fixed on his phone."Morning," he said, barely looking
QUINN'S POV We arrived at the Musée d'Orsay, its grandeur took my breath away. Bryan led me through the halls, stopping at Monet's Water Lilies."This is my favorite," Bryan said, his eyes locked onto the artwork. "There's something peaceful about it."I stepped closer to it, examining the painting's soft colors. It was indeed a beauty."It's beautiful," I agreed, feeling a sense of calm wash over me.But what surprised me was Bryan's appreciation for art. Growing up, he never showed interest.I remember how, as a kid, Bryan would scribble randomly with his brush, creating a very chaotic mess.Now, he stood beside me, admiring the very thing he once disliked.I couldn’t help but wonder what changed him? How did he develop such a refinery taste?Bryan turned to me, his gaze softening. "You seem so distant tonight."I shrugged, unsure how to respond. His words felt hypocritical. All night, he'd ignored me, his attention elsewhere.Now, he pretended to notice my mood?"I'm fine," I said,
BRYAN'S POVI watched Quinn rush out of the car, tears streaming down her face. My conscience prickled, but I suppressed it.It was all a game, after all. A game to see how much she cared.FLASHBACK_I remember the day I met Camille, at a charity gala at the Grand Palace, supporting a renowned art foundation. She was stunning, witty, and shared my passion for art.Her green eyes lit up every time she smiled. Her raven-black hair fell down her back, framing her heart-shaped face.Intrigued, I made my way through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries with acquaintances along the way."Bonjour, mademoiselle," I said, approaching her. "You seem to be enjoying the evening."She turned, her gaze fixed onto mine. "Oui, merci," she replied, her French accent melted my heart. "The art is breathtaking."We strolled through the exhibit, discussing art, culture, and life. Her name was Camille, a freelance journalist covering the Parisian art scene.Our conversation flowed effortlessly. We shared laug
Quinn's POV:I woke up, feeling utterly drained and exhausted, both physically and emotionally.The events of the past few days weighed heavily on me.I needed a chance to escape. A break that I hoped this new week would give me.So, I made a decision and called in sick to work, turned off my phone, and went into solitude. No notifications, no calls and no texts.Just silence.At first the silence became frightening, but as hours passed,Quinn's POV:I woke up, feeling utterly drained and exhausted, both physically and emotionally.The events of the past few days weighed heavily on me.I needed a chance to escape. A break that I hoped this new week would give me.So, I made a decision and called in sick to work, turned off my phone, and went into solitude. No notifications, no calls and no texts.Just silence.At first, the silence became frightening, but as hours passed, the stillness cleared my mind and I realized I'd been living my life according to other people’s expectations.It
QUINN'S POVI stood outside Matt's hospital room, watching him from the transparent mirror.With my concuence pricking me, I felt guilty.If it wasnt for me, Matt would have been hale and hearty. I took a deep breath before entering. The past few days had been a blur, but I needed to see him.As I walked in, Matt's eyes locked onto mine, a mixture of warmth and concern."Quinn," he called, his voice weak but genuine. "I'm glad you're here."I approached his bedside, feeling a sense of relief wash over me."I'm sorry I haven't had a chance to talk to you properly," Matt said, his eyes never leaving mine. "Not since I walked you to that cab that day"I smiled softly. "You've been busy recovering, I should be the one apologizing for not coming to see you yet"Matt's gaze intensified. "I had no idea you were into boxing. Seeing you at the ring that night with Bryan... I was shocked."I shook my head. "Nah, I'm not into boxing. Bryan invited me."Matt's expression turned curious. "You're n
FLASHBACK_Before the wrestling event, I thought Matt and I had something real.But Quinn's arrival changed everything.As soon as she got back to work, Matt's affectionate touch disappeared. There were no more stolen glances or flirtatious smiles. In fact, it was as though our connection never existed.I tried to brush it off, thinking he was just busy.But the silence grew thicker, day in day out.I initiated conversations numerous times after work, hoping to reconnect with him."Hey, Matt, how did your day go?" I'd ask.And he would grunt, with his eyes fixed on his phone."Matt, did you see that new project briefing, Mr Jenkins has in his budget for the club?" I'd try.He would still nod, acting distracted.It hurts.It became obviously clear that he didn't want to speak to me and I felt like I had lost him.One day, I cornered him in the break room."Matt, what's going on? You're ignoring me," I said.He only shrugged, dismissing me "Just stressed, Eva. Don't take it personally."
BRYAN'S POVI watched Quinn's reaction, her eyes wide with concern as Matt stumbled in the ring. My plan was unfolding perfectly.It started months ago, when I discovered Matt's boxing talent. I saw potential, not just in his skills, but in his connection to Quinn.My Quinn.The one person who'd never seen me for who I truly was.I manipulated Matt's career, pulling strings to get him this fight. He was a fighter, so I picked a stronger opponent, the venue, the timing – all carefully planned out.My goal was to break Quinn's resistance and, most especially, teach him a little lesson due to the way he totally ignored me during our last encounter.She'd been slipping away, drawn to Jasper's charm and Matt's kindness. But I wouldn't let that happen.Tonight, Quinn would see Matt's vulnerability, and I'd be the one to comfort her.As the referee counted down, Matt's eyes met Quinn's. I saw the spark of recognition, and the desperation.But my grip on her hand tightened, reassuring her th
I had spent that evening lost in my favorite novel, curled up on the couch with a warm cup of tea. The words on the page blurred together as my mind wandered to the upcoming school resumption.My phone buzzed, breaking the silence. I hesitated, wondering who could be messaging me at this hour.It was Bryan's assistant."Hello, Ms Quinn, The boss would like to invite you to a special evening event. He'll pick you up at 7 PM. Dress code, informal."I frowned, unsure.Was this another date? I was actually tired of going on dates with Bryan. You can never tell how it's going to end.Or could it be another business event?The uncertainty made me uneasy. I tried to push the thoughts aside, focusing on finishing my book.But my mind kept drifting back to Bryan and what he had planned. Before I knew it, 6:45 PM arrived.I set aside my book, taking a deep breath.Time to get ready.I slipped into my little black dress, smoothing out the fabric. A quick glance in the mirror confirmed I looked p
QUINNS POVJasper's eyes sparkled with amusement as I approached. "Took you long enough," he teased.I smiled, taking the seat across from him. "Sorry, I was busy."Jasper chuckled. "I had to plead extra with Eva to get you here. You know I don't ask, I make it happen."My skepticism must have shown, because Jasper held up his hands in mock defense. "Just joking, Quinn. Don't look so serious."My skepticism must have shown, because Jasper held up his hands in mock defense. "Just joking, Quinn. Don't look so serious."He gestured to the empty chair across from him. "Sit, please."I looked around, searching for his guards. Looks like he came alone today. I hesitated for a moment before taking a seat next to him."So," he continued, leaning back in his chair."As friends, since that's what we agreed to be. Why haven't I seen you around in a while?"His tone was casual, but I sensed a hidden undertone."I've been busy," I repeated.Jasper's eyes crinkled at the corners. "Busy avoiding me
As I walked into the club, I felt like a spectacle. Everyone's eyes were fixed on me, their whispers and pointing fingers were unmistakable.I tried to ignore the stares, but my face burned with embarrassment. Eva approached me immediately with concern written on her face. "Quinn, honey, you look horrible. What happened?"She guided me to a quiet corner, away from the prying eyes."I had a fight with Clark," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper.Eva's expression became pitiful "About Bryan?"I nodded, and Eva's eyes widened."But I insisted to accompany you and you refused. Quinn, people are talking. They know you're dating him."I sighed, confirming her suspicions. "It's true."“Especially our co workers, they feel you’ve been away for so long and over using the privileges you have.”Her voice dropped to a whisper. "All I can say is, you really need to Be careful, Quinn. Bryan's reputation... it's complicated."Just then, our boss, Mr. Jenkins, emerged from his office. "Quinn
As I stepped into my childhood home, surrounded by familiar faces, yet feeling out of place. Everyone was dressed in mourning attire, their faces filled with grief. My heart ached as I spotted my stepmother, her eyes red-rimmed, standing beside Anna's grave.Anna's grave nestled closely to my mother's family plot, and it brought back memories.I turned to her, confusion swirling in my mind.As I wrapped my hair in a black linen scarf, my mind wandered."What's happening in my life exactly? It seems like my world is crumbling around me.I took a deep breath for what felt like the hundredth time and joined the rest of the family, ready to say goodbye to Anna.At that moment, everything was over and everyone offered condolences.I moved to the other side of the cemetery where my mom was buried.And I was shocked to my bones. My mom's ashes were staring back at me. I knelt down, eyes teary. Speaking to her as I held the ashes.Bryan kept his promise," I thought to myself. "But why? What's
I stepped into my cozy home, the warmness and the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the house. Eva and her excellent baking skills.The moment she saw me, she flung her arms around me. “I’ve missed you, love” and we shared a heartfelt hug, both of us giggling as we chatted about everything and nothing.I handed her a box overflowing with outfits Bryan had bought for me, urging her to pick up whatever caught her eye. "I couldn't possibly wear all of these," I said with a grin on my face."Bryan's shopping sprees are legendary. See this "I pulled out a stunning red dress, holding it up against myself. Eva's eyes widened in approval."Quinn, you'd rock that!" she exclaimed.I chuckled, and for a moment, everything became normal again.As we delved into the box's treasures, I couldn't skip telling Eva about the mysterious woman in Paris. “Eva, there’s something bothering me,” I added, my voice almost in a whisper.“ I need to tell you about this woman in Paris." Eva's expr