066.When they finally arrived at the restaurant and were seated, Amber had her head lowered. Due to what happened, she had been so embarrassed that she couldn't look Axel in the eyes. Axel watched her with a bemused expression on his face. "Cat eyes," he called and she stiffened. Slowly, she raised her head to look into those blue eyes of his. "Have you suddenly lost your confidence because of a mere kiss?" he asked, amused that she was acting so embarrassed."How can you call it a mere kiss when you said I harassed you sexually?" she muttered under her breath, but Axel heard her loud and clear. He cleared his throat and chuckled. This was interesting.With a sigh, he leaned back on his chair and clapped his hands. The waitress walked to their table, and bowed. When she raised her head and saw Axel, she bit her lower lip."Could you please take this young lady's order?" Axel asked, already immune to the lady's stare. The one he loved was right in front of him. It was only her look t
067.Amber remembered Melissa's warning, but her body wanted something different. She wrapped her hands around Axel's neck and initiated the kiss. Axel's arms wrapped tightly around Amber's waist, drawing her closer to him as he returned the kiss with fierce intensity. He tangled his fingers in her hair, deepening the kiss as he tasted the sweet, forbidden fruit of her lips.Amber shuddered, surrendering to the electric heat of their passion. She could feel the hard press of Axel's body against hers, his hands roaming over her curves as he pulled her deeper into the world of their desires."Tell me you want me," he whispered against her lips, his words a command as he ravished her senses with his touch.Amber's chest heaved with excitement as she allowed herself to be consumed by Axel's hunger. "Yes," she gasped, her voice throaty and desperate. "I want you, Axel."Axel growled, the sound reverberating through his chest as he pressed himself against Amber, her body molding to his as i
068.LAS VEGAS Amber was dropped off at her place by Dan. She got out of the car, her eyes widening when she saw Cole standing in front of her apartment, his arms folded.Dan brought her luggage and she took it from him. "Thanks, Dan."Dan bowed and she forced a smile before walking toward Cole. Cole watched the car drive away, his face contorted into a frown. "Cole, what are you doing here?" Amber asked.Cole took her luggage from her. "I'm here because we need to talk," he said and gestured for her to go in. Amber sighed and walked in. When they got to her door, she unlocked it and they walked into the house.Cole took her luggage to her room before returning to the living room and talkingia seat. He patted the seat beside him for her to sit down. Amber hesitated for a minute, but she decided to sit down anyway.Cole turned to face her. "I know you're just coming back and you need to rest, Amber. And I should probably ask you how the conference went and if you had fun, but I'm so
069.Axel paced back and forth in the living room while Maverick watched. "Aren't you going to sit down? I don't want you fainting on me?" he rolled his eyes.Axel sighed and sat down. "I'm so nervous, Maverick," he said and Maverick cleared his throat."That's strange coming from someone like you, Axel," he went to the wine stand and grabbed a wine bottle and two glass cups. "Didn't you see you two got pretty close at Los Angeles even though you didn't give details? What's making you nervous?"Axel sighed and ruffled his hair. "I don't want her getting scared, Maverick. Especially since we haven't known who this Don is or even found him. Who knows if he's waiting for me to tell her first before striking?""And how would he know you're about to tell her the truth about what happened five years ago?" Maverick poured wine into both glasses and walked to stand in front of Axel. He handed one glass cup to Axel who took it and downed it in one go. He seemed to relax a bit. "You're just sca
070. GLAM MAGAZINE "Reports on the conference in Mainland Technology, Amber?" Ms. June said. Amber smiled and stood to her feet. Ms. June had called a meeting for the monthly report. Amber opened her file and cleared her throat. "At the conference," Amber began, her voice professional, "the company's CEO, Mr. Zayn, made some big announcements regarding their future plans. One of the most exciting developments was the unveiling of an advanced AI assistant they're calling 'Ru Ai'. Mr. Zayn claims this AI will revolutionize the way we work and interact with technology. According to him, Ru Ai can manage tasks, organize schedules, and even create personalized recommendations based on user preferences and behavior. It sounds like a game-changer, don’t you think?" Ms. June’s brows raised as Amber spoke. "Sounds like they're trying to outdo the competition. Everyone's diving into AI, but something that personal? That’s ambitious." Amber nodded. “Mr. Zayn claims that Ru Ai will learn fro
071.FIVE YEARS AGO (BOSTON)“What plan do you have in mind?” Melissa asked Axel, her face filled with smiles. Axel cleared his throat. “I know how you are with Amber, Melissa. Once you meet her, you’re gonna blurt it out.”“You’re wrong,” Melissa said, looking away immediately. “This is her birthday, Axel. I will keep my mouth shut. You can trust me with that.”Axel shook his head. “Not a chance. But there is something I need your help with though,” he said, but Melissa wasn’t buying it.“If you think I’m gonna do anything without knowing about your plan, you’re clearly mistaken, Axel King. Now be a good boy and tell me.”Axel rolled his eyes. “Fine. It’s a surprise that involves taking her on a rollercoaster ride and showing her own personal library. Since she loves books, I created that particular space for her. Happy?” he asked.Melissa shrieked. “Uh-huh! I’m so happy! Amber’s gonna be so thrilled. She might even faint out of shock!” Melissa clapped her hands.“No telling,” Axel
072.Axel took his phone and glanced at it again. Maybe he was seeing things, but nah, he wasn’t. The message and the video was as real as the hair on his head. At first, he thought it was a prank. But a prank wouldn’t really involve a real rifle and a sniper? And he wasn’t ready to play with Amber’s life.He was about to call the police when another message popped up. ‘If you get the police or anyone else involved, you can kiss your darling girlfriend goodbye. Don’t be a fool. I am watching your every move. You can’t escape me.’“Amber!” Axel whispered, his heart beating wildly in his chest. He quickly texted Melissa and asked her to call Amber and ask her to come to the party. Melissa asked what was wrong, but he replied, telling her he would come meet them soon.Another message popped in. ‘Do you think her escaping to the birthday party will save her? You underestimate me, Axel King.’Axel texted back. ‘Please don’t do anything to her. What do you want? I’ll give you whatever you w
073.As Axel sat in the car, Don sent him a text message. 'Good boy. Now the first part is done. For the second part, you're going to leave Boston. Go faraway to a place she would never find you, and never come back! If I see you anywhere near this town or even close to her, trust me, she will not survive to graduate.'Axel threw his head back and exhaled so he wouldn't cry but his tears fell regardless. He turned the car and drove away from there, heading for the apartment. When he was in, he slumped to the floor and burst into tears."I'm sorry, Cat eyes. I'm really sorry! I had no choice. I just want to protect you. I'll find a way out of this I promise." he whispered. He felt like his heart was being pierced with countless needles and all he needed was just to breathe. He couldn't believe what was happening to him, even though it was glaring right at him now. Axel didn't know how long he sat there and cried but soon he heard the sound of a car. He instantly knew that it was Cole'
086.Laura sat in a coffee shop, her feet tapping relentlessly on the floor. Vera had gone to get them drinks but that was the least of her problems right now. She knew Gina was the one responsible for the beating she received, but she had no idea how Amber was able to clear her name in just a small amount of time.This only confirmed her suspicion that there was someone helping her form the sidelines. But who could that be? And why did the girl who helped to get the man caught look so familiar?"Something is fishy!" "Laura, did you hear, Amber has gotten all her opportunities back. Lots of companies are calling to get interviewed by her. They were moved by now she took care of the case and gave the police the leverage to catch the abuser." Vera dropped the coffee on the table and sat down.Laura groaned. "I hate how this is turning out, Gina. We need to do something about it.""That's not all. Ms. June has given her the cover page for the Mainland Tech Conference Article. If she pu
085.Amber's face lit up when she saw Larissa walking out of the club. She got down from the car and rushed to hug her. "You're back!" she gave Larissa a peck on the cheek. "You did it! My reputations cleared. I watched everything."Larissa smirked. "Told you not to worry about anything. Did you think it wouldn't work out when the plane was Axel's?"Amber raised a brow. "I thought it was your idea."Larissa shook her head. "It was all Axel's. I only agreed to be the bait," she said and Amber smiled."I'm grateful to you both. Now I feel relieved that it's all been taken care of. I can sleep with a smile now." Larissa chuckled.~•~•~The next day...GLAM MAGAZINE Amber walked into her department and Gina rushed to her. "Oh you have no idea how happy I am that you're finally back to work. The man has been caught by the police. Turns out, he was brutally beaten by the ladies he harassed. He's currently being questioned and you my dear, have gotten your fans back."Amber scoffed as she
084."Hey, beautiful," the man drawled, his voice low and seductive.Larissa's grip on the glass tightened, her brows twitching as she fought the urge to punch him in the face and give him a good beating. She quickly forced a smile to her face and turned to face him. "Hi." she answered and looked away. All she had to do was play hard to get and he was going to try forcing himself on her for sure.The man took a seat beside her. "Can I buy you a drink? A beautiful lady like you shouldn't sit here all alone, you know." his eyes roamed her body as his tongue ran over his lips.Larissa rolled her eyes. "As you can see, I already have a drink. And it's not bad to be alone, is it?" she asked."So you're really alone," he smiled to himself and moved closer. Larissa noticed this and leaned back. "You know," he began, his voice dropping to a whisper. "I saw the way you danced a few minutes ago. Mind if we get a room and you can show me privately? I'd love to see it up close." he touched her la
083.KING'S MANSION The family was seated in the dining room, having a nice relaxing dinner. Kevin looked at Axel, who seemed to be in a good mood. It's been a while he saw Axel actually eat enough food like he did.His gaze darted to Larissa and Maverick. They were also in good moods. Were these kids hiding something from him? Besides, he saw the scandal with Amber. They couldn't be smiling at a time like this, right?Knowing Axel, he would have thrown a tantrum and dealt with whoever did it. But here the young man was, eating like he was celebrating.When he couldn't take it anymore, he dropped the fork and knife he was holding, making a clanging sound on the plate that drew the trio's attention. They all turned to look at him."You three, what's going on?" he asked, his gaze narrowed at them.The three of them exchanged confused glances, having no idea what Kevin was talking about. "Uncle, what are you talking about?" Larissa was the first to ask.Kevin scoffed. "Are you trying to
082.“No! There's no way I'm letting you do that. What if it backfires? Promiscuous men like him can do anything to women.” Amber declined after Larissa told her about the plan. “C'mon, Amber,”“No, Larissa,” she sighed. “You are an idol. You have fans all over the world. Do you have any idea what this would cost you if it backfires? No way am I letting you go to that club and be the bait.” Larissa chuckled and took a seat beside Amber. “I like the fact that you underestimate me, Amber,” she smirked. “Look, I know how the club works. And I know what makes stupid bastards like that idiot tick. Do you think I'd go there with no backup? Trust me. It will only be just to lure him into the trap.”Amber sighed. “I don't know, Larissa.”“Amber listen, I'm sick and tired of seeing mean comments against you. Many jealous reporters are using this opportunity to ruin you the more. They might have been quiet because they saw nothing to use against you, but now, they are trying to ruin your rep
081.Amber pulled away from the kiss and cupped Axel's cheeks, her eyes shining with love for him. Axel raised a brow at her. “What was that about?” he asked amidst chuckles.Amber batted her lashes at him. “Don't you like it?” she asked, her voice small.Axel’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, then a grin spread across his face. “Well, now.” he drew Amber closer, wrapping his arms around her waist. “I do like it. But I can’t say I’m not a little bit surprised.” his voice was low and gravelly, making Amber’s heart flip-flop in her chest.Amber blushed, but she couldn’t look away from his intense gaze. “I had to do something to thank you,” she whispered. “For everything.”Axel’s eyes softened as he stared at her. “Amber, you don’t have to thank me for anything. I’ll always be here for you. No matter what.” He pressed his forehead against hers, their lips inches apart. “And I want you to know, I love you too.”Amber’s heart skipped a beat. She wrapped her arms around him. They've been thro
080.“So, how long have you and Mr. A been together?” Larissa asked during their break.Amber was taken aback by the question. “What? He and I are not together.” she answered.Larissa chuckled. “Seriously? Are you telling me that you two feel nothing for each other, or he feels nothing for you?” she asked, handing a chocolate bar to Amber.“Aren't dancers supposed to eat healthy snacks?” Amber asked, her gaze on the chocolate as she tried to change the topic.Larissa raised an eyebrow. “First of all, this is dark chocolate, which is supposed to be good for you. Second of all, don't change the subject.” she pointed her finger at Amber. “Now, tell me. Are you and Axel just friends, or is there more to it?”Amber fidgeted with the wrapper of the chocolate, avoiding Larissa's gaze. “We…we're just friends,” she insisted, though her voice wasn't quite as convincing as she'd hoped.Larissa smirked. “Uh huh,” she leaned forward, her eyes glinting with mischief. “Okay, let me break this down f
079.Axel continued patting her on the back as she cried. Amber couldn't help the tears. She melted into his arms while he kissed her hair. “Hey, stop crying, okay?” he said and she nodded.Axel pulled away from the hug and placed his hands on her shoulders. “Look at me,” he said and Amber looked up at him with a tear stained face. Axel used his thumb to wipe her tears and smiled at her. “You're a strong woman, Cat eyes. You don't need to let them know they've gotten you. I know you were set up, your friends know that as well, and your loyal fans too.”Amber nodded. “I'm just so hurt and annoyed.”“I understand,” Axel said. “And I won't let that motherfucker get away with hurting you. He's just dug his own grave for hurting my woman.”Amber smiled, a blush crawling up her cheeks. “You still call me your woman in such playful tone while I'm really annoyed here?”Axel leaned forward and rolled strands of hair into his index finger. “Why not? At least I got a smile from you.” he said, hi
078.GLAM MAGAZINE Amber walked into the company the next day, but something felt different. The employees were murmuring and talking in hush voices as she walked by. Her brows creased. What was going on? She was still in a sour mood from what happened yesterday, what was going on today?She walked into her department and Laura walked to her. “Oh, what a slut you are. I should have known that you got all your fame because you sleep with me that are old enough to birth you.”Amber frowned. “What the heck are you yammering on about?” she asked.Laura snickered. “You're a journalist. The news should be something you check every damn fucking day. I always knew you were pompous, now you've gone outside to show the world just how terrible you are.” Amber shook her head and walked to her desk. She knew bantering with Laura won't yield any results. The girl will only end up getting her to lose her temper, and she didn't want that.She brought her phone out and switched her data on. Her eyes