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
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."
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
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
Chapter 01_DINNER WITH MEI strolled across the sidewalk, my feet barely touching the ground as my heart beamed with excitement. It's my nineteenth birthday today, and the world seems to be unfolding its arms, embracing me with open possibilities.The news I had just received still resonated in my mind, like a sweet melody_ a scholarship for my outstanding academic performance. All the late nights, early mornings, and endless cups of coffee finally paid off.For the first time in my life, I felt the weight of my academic struggles finally lifting. I envisioned a bright future ahead of me. My dreams were within reach now.My excitement grew with each step. I turned onto my street. I couldn’t wait to share the news with Eva, my best friend and confidant. She called me earlier, she's probably waiting for me at home.I met Eva first at Eclipse, one of the biggest secluded clubs in the city where I worked part-time. Our friendship blossomed from that fateful night, and we became inseparab
BRYAN’S POVI checked my watch for what felt like the hundredth time. The meetings dragged on, my schedule was usually chaotic, but somehow she still managed to occupy my mind.I leaned back sipping the scotch, letting my fingers rest on the armrest, lost.I had been watching her eagerly since I moved back to the country. Her vulnerability and strength intrigued me.Her refusal to give up, even when things seemed impossible, inspired me. Her innocence, too, was very captivating.She’s even prettier now than I remember. Time has transformed her into a stunning young lady. Her beauty wasn’t just skin-deep, it radiated from within.Our childhood memories flooded back into my head – the laughter, the backyard barbecues. Our families' close ties made us inseparable. I recalled the countless times we explored the neighborhood, sharing secrets and dreams. A small smile formed on my lips.She is breathtakingly beautiful, with a slender yet athletic build. Her long silky hair framed her oval fa
His eyes roamed over me, lingering on every curve, filled with a hunger that made my skin crawl. "Stunning," he whispered, his breath caressing my ears.His fingers began to trace the curve of my cheek. I shut my eyes in disgust, trying to shake him off, but he held tight onto me. His touch sent shivers down my spine as I panicked.Jasper’s grin broadened as he continued, his hands sliding down towards my chest. I felt my face flush with humiliation and I wished the ground would open and swallow me whole.Just then, Mr. Jenkins, intervened awkwardly, "Mr Jasper, please, she's just a waitress, she doesn’t engage...ah...sexually with clients"Jasper chuckled, his little laugh made my body vibrate.“Well, then I’d be her first. She doesn’t get to decide, I make the decisions.” He added.Eva rushed towards us, kneeling. Her eyes were pleading.“I’m so sorry Sir, for my negligence. It was all my fault. Take…take me instead. I’ll go with you, I’ll do anything. Just let Quinn go, please. She’
BRYAN’S POVAs I opened the door for Quinn, her bewildered expression amused me.Her nervousness was so obvious that I couldn’t help but smile at her awkwardness.Once she settled in, I started the car and pulled away.My mind flashed back to the incident that forced me to reveal myself.Her current reaction mirrored the frantic nervous feeling I felt that day, watching her go through that attack.That night, I had saved her from Jasper’s grip. Her eyes were terrified when I looked back, her breathing heaving. Tension stirred within me and I screamed.“Get her to the hospital this minute.”Asthma.I remembered. She was asthmatic.My heart swiftly raced as I swiftly moved closer, cradling her fragile form.“Hang in there, help is on the way”, I assured him.Suddenly, her eyes rolled back and she slumped forward, fainting.Her friend caught her. “Get an ambulance, now!” I had barked at whoever stood close.The minutes ticked by like hours as we waited for the paramedics. Soon the ambulan
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