123.Amber, Axel, and Cole walked into an empty classroom where Cole slammed his fists on the wall. Amber quietly took a seat and Axel followed as well. They sat there, watching Cole exhale.Cole had seen it with his own eyes and heard it with his ears. He couldn’t believe that Janice was this heartless to have used him with the aim of getting to Axel. He felt betrayed and hurt. All these months, he thought they had something genuine going on. He thought he had finally found love and found someone who loved him, but it was fake. He was such a fool to have fallen for her lies.And he had accused Amber of lying and being selfish when she warned him about Janice. He turned to look at Amber, who was seated with Axel, his expression turning sadder by the second.He walked to where she was seated. He knew he fucked up and needed to apologize to her. “Amber,” he called, his voice soft. “I just want to thank you for making me find out that Janice wasn’t someone to be trusted,” he said and she
124.Melissa and Jack waited as Amber was being rushed into the Emergency Department where her wounds would be treated. Axel rushed into the hospital and Melissa ran to him.“Where is Amber?” he asked, paranoid. When they had called him that Amber had gotten shot, he couldn’t believe his ears and had to rush down here. “Is she okay?” “She is currently being tended to at the Emergency Department—”Axel didn’t wait for Melissa to finish answering his question as he began heading to the place, but she held him to stop him. “You can’t go there right now. They asked us to wait until they are done. Please, calm down.” Melissa pleased.Axel sighed and massaged his forehead. He couldn’t stay in a place and began pacing around, his heart beating frantically in his chest. “How on earth did it happen?” he asked, turning to face Melissa and Jack.“We have no idea,” Jack replied, his face filled with horror. He couldn’t believe what just happened. “We just finished our project and were about to l
125.While they waited for Amber to come out of surgery, Axel couldn’t help pacing. Cole had rushed in as well and had to wait as they filled him in on what had happened.“I believe it’s a targeted shooting as well, Axel,” he said, a frown settling on his face. “And believe me, if I find the jerk that did this to my sister, I swear I’m not gonna spare him.”“That’s if I keep him alive,” Axel answered.Melissa and Jack stared at Axel and Cole with shocked expressions on their faces. They knew these two cared so much about Amber, but they had no idea they were willing to kill to get revenge for her. She took a deep breath and buried her face in her hands. Her heart was beating frantically. Even though the surgery was being done on Amber’s arm, she still felt scared.When the doctor mentioned that Amber would be going in for surgery, she had been triggered. She recalled how one of her aunt was involved in an accident, and the doctor said it required her to go into surgery. Her Aunt didn’
126.A FEW DAYS LATER“Well, we have investigated, and the conclusion is that, it wasn’t a targeted shooting, but a stray bullet like we had predicted,” The female officer, whom Axel had questioned the day Amber got shot.Axel and Cole exchanged looks as they went through the statement. According to what the police officer had earlier explained, it was actually a robbery and an exchange of fire.Axel sighed, ruffling his hair. “Fine then,” he said, finally believing what she said because he had tried doing some investigations on his own, but couldn’t find anything. Maybe it was like she said. “If you find anything else, please do not hesitate to let us know about it.”The police officer nodded with a smile. “Definitely.”.Cole and Axel walked out of the station and got into the car as Axel drove them out of the premises. “Do you really believe that this is their conclusion, Axel?” Cole asked, his voice filled with doubt.Axel sighed, his gaze fixed on the road. “Not really, but I don
127.“Hey, Melissa, have you noticed that Axel has been acting weird lately?” Amber asked as they walked into the school hallways, filled with students who were just walking out of their classes. Melissa raised a brow. “Acting strange?” Melissa furrowed her brows, trying to think of something. “Not really. Why do you think so?”Amber sighed, licking her lower lips. “I don’t know if it’s just me or…” she sighed again. “He isn’t spending much time with me like before. Whenever I want us to spend some quality time together, he would tell me he was busy with something and had to take care of it. He isn’t spending time with me in school as well. I don’t know, but I feel like he’s avoiding me.”Melissa shook her head. “Knowing how much Axel loves you, he would never avoid you,” Melissa patted her shoulder. “Maybe he is really as busy as he claims. Axel is someone who can barely stay away from you. What reason would he have to avoid you? Even 24 hours a day is not enough time for him when h
128.“Oh that bitch! I should have hit her harder!” Melissa snapped, pacing back and forth as the doctor cleaned Amber’s wound.Amber gave her a soft smile. “Your slap was enough. I bet her cheek will sting for days.”Melissa shook her head. She wasn’t satisfied. “She made your wound open again. Just this morning, I was happy that you were healing, and soon the cast would come off. Then that stupid weasel opened it all up again. Look, she made you bleed,” Melissa seethed as the doctor changed the bandage and cast. “I want to return the favor.”Amber chuckled, shaking her head. “It’s fine, Mel. I’m already feeling better, and it’s that painful anymore, see?”Melissa sighed and took a seat. “You’re just saying that to make me feel better. I know how hurt you are, Amy. I know you are in pains.”Amber bit her lower lip, knowing that Melissa was right. The pain was nothing to write home about. She has been handling it quite well, but now, she felt like her hand was about to come off.She h
129.The students began murmuring as Hazel stormed through the halls, her balls fisted as she walked to where Amber was with Melissa. Amber had accompanied Melissa to submit their project and was already preparing to go home for the break the doctor asked her to take when Hazel stormed towards them."You!" she seethed, barely able to contain her anger.Amber stared at Hazel, her eyes widening in shock and amusement. Melissa couldn't help bursting into fits of laughter. Hazel was beaten and battered from head to toe. Her face was all swollen and her hand was already in a cast. Her forehead has been bandaged as well, making her look almost unrecognizable. The only way the girls could tell she was the one was through her cheerleading captain uniform.Amber knew Cole had gotten her revenge on her behalf. She stared at Hazel, a bemused expression on her face while Hazel glared at her like she couldn't wait to get rid of her."You fucking set me up! How dare you?" she snarled, her fists bal
130.Amber gasped as Axel helped her into the luxurious and well decorated outdoor restaurant. Her eyes widened at the decor, the crystal lights dancing around flower bushes, the water fountain in front of her and the exotic food and drinks, set on the table, waiting for her and calling her name. A smile graced her lips.“Tadaaa!” Axel spread out his arms, showing her the beauty of the place.Amber turned to face him, literally bubbling with smiles. This was the best makeup date. She didn’t even have to think twice before forgiving him for making her miss him so much. “So… do you like it?” Axel asked, taking her good hand in his.Amber nodded with a smile. “I love it,” she said, still looking around. It’s so amazing I feel like I can’t get enough of it.”Axel blushed as he chuckled a bit. He hadn’t been able to spend time with her for a while now due to things he had to take care of at school and the big project he was working on. But now that he was less busy, he was going to make i
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