Louise Rose.Unease grips me. Something feels off. This is not right.Two staff members guarded me, and they seemed friendly. I stepped into the elevator, took a deep breath, and smiled at my reflection in the mirror. I knew I looked good tonight. It was funny, but it took me a while to decide what dress to wear until I settled into a simple one—after all, it was not my date.This is Hendrix's fifth date, and I'm teetering on the edge of a significant decision. I hope that this will be the last one because right after this, I'm going to tell him that I will quit.The amount of money that was deposited in my account this morning was more than enough for a lifetime. I never saw this coming. We only agreed to the right amount, but Hendrix deposited more than twenty times.Something's not right. There's tension in the air, a brewing storm to come. I can sense it. What's Hendrix up to? Is it something good or something bad? Who knows? Maybe he has met the fifth candidate, and it happened
Hendrix."What?" Her eyes widened, and my effing heart lit up like fireworks. I love her reaction. It's a piece of art, and I want more from it."You're kidding, right? Tell me you're fooling, Hendrix.""No. I'm not." Confident with myself, I managed to finish my dessert.She couldn't talk for a few seconds and stared blankly at me. I chortled slightly and wiped my mouth."Is this your punishment for me? For not telling you the truth about me? Oh, god. . ." She looked away, now drinking her water. I gritted my teeth as I glanced at her quaking hands."I don't give punishment, Louise. I simply offer them something in exchange for their mistakes. You're not the first person to do this, but you are the first person I want for this plan to succeed."She sighed, and I felt her shoulder dropped."I'm sorry if I deceived you. Please leave my aunt out of this. Rosy is not part of the plan. I did this on my own, and you can only blame me. Don't include her." She looked at me firmly.I'm not s
Louise Rose.So, how will I do this?I looked at Hendrix, concentrating on his instructions and the details of how we met, but my mind was nowhere. It was flying in different dimensions, taking me back to when I was sixteen.Changes are: Hendrix has grown mature, solid, dominant, and more snobby than ever. I wonder if he could smile like how he used to when he was still intact."Are you listening, Bree?" he raises his brow."Oh, yeah." I swallow the sand in my throat. I wasn't paying attention at all. His deep blue eyes are brighter this time than usual. I remember when I was a teenager, Hendrix's eyes turned greenish, and it was beautiful. "Okay, then, we are good to go."I blinked fast as he stood up, getting ready for us to go now. We will meet his sister, his half-sister, to be precise. I didn't know this until he told me the truth about it. Hendrix is a Findlaech-Crinain, but not now because he is a Mondragon. He left the door ajar on the car's passenger side and abruptly mov
Louise Rose.I pulled out mine from my bag and compared them.Oh my God. Is this for real? No. It can't be.SAXEThe initial itself on the G-Dragon coming from my bag made my heart lose another heartbeat. Why did I never think of it?Saxe Hendrix Mondragon. Shit. It's him.I clenched my teeth and quickly stashed mine back into my bag as Hendrix approached me. I blinked to clear my mind, but the heck, no matter how fast I blinked, the image of Hendrix got into me.He owns the G-Dragon. It's his G-Dragon!"You did not get in?""No. Uhm, I prefer to wait," I return the key with the G-Dragon charm, swallowing the sand stuck in my throat."Come on in. I hope we are not late for the show." He checked the time on his wristwatch and then walked past me. He opened the passenger door and looked at me before walking back to his side. I nodded and took a deep breath as I stepped in.Should I ask? I should, right?The ignition started, and I waited for the car to reach the main road before asking
Hendrix."Did you have fun?" I put on my best smile as I opened the car door. She steps out, smiling a little tipsy."I did. Your mother is kind. I can't believe you fooled her. And I can't believe I'm such a good actress." She chuckled softly, and I embraced her from the other side.Mother and she had a good time talking. I did not know their conversations, but they seemed okay. She had a few drinks with my mother, and now she's drunk. This is my mother's way of getting to know what a person is like. She will get them to drink until they tell everything.I led her inside, and she held my hand tightly."How much did you drink?" My jaw tightened. She removed her shoes and flicked them to the side. I chuckled quietly. She removed her boots and flicked them to the side. I chuckled."Your mother kept offering me a drink, and I couldn't refuse her. How did she know my favorite drink? Did you ask her to get me drunk, to be honest about everything between us?" She shook her head, giggled, a
Hendrix."Your mother is not blind, Hendrix. She knows, of course. What do you expect?"I assisted Elle with her task of applying gold lining thread on the side cover of each book. I was about to visit her at home. Luckily, I called before driving to their mansion. Axton is not at home because her husband just returned from Greece, and the two are spending the day bonding together."Be honest, Hendrix, and listen to your heart. Pretending to be Louise’s fiancé is a mistake. You will only end up hurting her. Trust me."I chuckled and shook my head. My hands were busy doing the same thing as hers, but my ears were all hers as I listened."This isn't a good joke, Hendrix. If you're doing this because of what she did, then forget about it! You need to move on." She whirled halfway and reached for another gold thread."A contract is a contract, Elle. This is my business," I smirked."Really? A business, huh?" She laughs a little bit."You are impossible. It's obvious that Louise has no ot
Louise Rose.What was that for?My forehead creased as I looked at the dead screen of my cell phone. That was not like him. He is not rude, but that was unexpected.Hang on? Did I offend him when I sent back the money to his account?I gasped, covering my mouth. That must be it! Oh my God.I kept pacing back and forth, glancing at the time on the clock. It's not too late yet. It's only eight o'clock, and my assumption is that Hendrix will be here any minute and will throw a tantrum like a child.Dang it.After ten minutes, there's a knock on my door, and my heart bangs harder. I hope it's not him. I hope it's not Hendrix, but who will be coming to my place at this hour?Shella can't. She always rings me whenever she wants to sleep for the night or lets me know ahead of time.Oh, heck."Coming!" I swallowed hard, holding the knob, getting ready to open it."Oh, Hendrix? What can I do with tonight?" As expected, it was him. I felt the cold wind hit my system when our eyes met.His cold
Louise Rose."So, what do you want me to do? I already give you back your money. I don't want it, Hendrix! I know it was all my fault, but I don't want to go further with what you want anymore. I'm sorry," I mumbled, facing down.He rested both of his hands on his hips and did not move."I'm not going to accept this. Give me four more weeks, Louise. That's all I want."With a flickering butterfly feeling, I jerked my head to see his face, and my heart melted.His warm, soft stare made my body into jelly straight away. He seemed sad as if he was asking me to take him and give him another chance at this. I can't help but look at him in the same way."Louise. . ." he whispered and closed the distance between us.I stepped back a little bit, but I was trapped against the wall in my back, and I could only gasp warmly when Hendrix's gaze came down to my lips."Damn this," he mumbled, and I shut my eyes.Partly, I felt his lips on mine, and the electrifying feeling of wanting to envelop me.
Hendrix.I combed my hair using my fingers in exasperation. It's been a week since Louise last spoke to me. She keeps ignoring me as if I don't exist. I can't get too close to her because she doesn't want me around."I acknowledge it's my fault, and I'm doing everything for her to understand the situation, Xav. It's driving me crazy. I can't concentrate and haven't slept at all. I want to talk to her, but she has blocked me."Xavion chuckled a little."This isn’t funny, Xavion," I said through clenched teeth."Give her time, Hendrix. She will calm down and entertain you again. Right now, her focus is on Rosy. Let her be. Consider the pain she's experiencing now. She's also afraid of losing Rosy."I sighed, trying to grasp the air around me.Rosy is not feeling well.After chemotherapy, she developed complications and is currently in the ICU for heart monitoring. I visited her earlier to ensure she was being looked after by the nurses and specialists.I nodded, trying to tease the ten
Louise Rose.I'm so furious right now. I feel so betrayed. Of all the people, why Hendrix? Why. . .I went back to Rosy and attended to all her needs. I never asked her anything about her condition. I had enough of what Dr. Lou said earlier. I just need to give myself some time to settle down so that I can think again."Louise, my dear, please don't be upset with me or Dr. Lou. It's not his fault. He was simply following my instructions... I want this because I don't want you to fret too much… I apologize for keeping this from you." Rosy's voice was faint and tired. I could only embrace her. My heart shatters as I feel lost about what to do next. It's nighttime already. I helped Rosy shower and eat dinner, and now I am tucking her for bedtime. I turned off my phone after I talked to Dr. Lou. I don't want to talk to anyone, especially to Hendrix. I'm not in the mood for any conversation about Rosy's health.I could only smile softly as I stroked her cheek. I know she's tired. Today
Louise Rose.Although I shouldn't visit her today, I plan to surprise Rosy since my calendar is free. I feel truly blessed in many ways despite the conflicts within Hendrix's family.Hendrix's mother hates me, and Stephanie is making all the moves she can to hold Hendrix by the neck.My partner is facing financial losses, and I feel accountable for it. I want to assist him, but I'm unsure of how to proceed. I believe the most significant support I can offer is simply being there for him, regardless of the circumstances.I love him, honestly. Our start wasn't perfect, as it was pretentious, but look at where we are now. It's been the past six months, and we are running seven and still firmly in love with each other.I felt nervous as I entered the care clinic. Nadia, the head nurse, looked surprised when she saw me."I did not expect a visit from you today." Her brows wiggled, and I laughed. "Does your Aunt Rosy know you are coming?""No. She did not. I want to surprise her. I have so
Louise Rose.I cautiously glance to the side while listening to Hendrix speak on the phone with Stephanie.After dinner, we settled back at his place, giving me enough time to relax. I'm all relaxed, alright. I had my shower thirty minutes ago and checked on Rosy at the care clinic. Everything is going well with her, and I'm glad she's okay. I was a little worried when I saw her this morning. She doesn't seem well."I told you I'm not negotiating anything from you anymore, Steph." Hendrix's voice rose in octavo."Dammit! This is why we can't talk in person. This is why I can't see you!' He ran his hand through his hair in frustration and lifted his head."Fucking hell! Don't you dare tell me what to do, Steph! It's not about myself anymore, and not about Louise. Stay her out of this!"My body jerked when I heard the surprising kick he made on the chair inside the room. I fiddle my fingernails on my lips while listening, and my heart is pumping hard inside me.Hendrix is furious. Step
Louise Rose.I stopped by the flower stall near Hendrix’s office building, and rather than waiting for him, I opted to head to his office instead.The interior of the building is impressive. It features a unique atmosphere, and the entrance boasts a tall ceiling adorned with a large, sparkling chandelier.There was no reception. Instead, there was information displayed on the large screen indicating which floor to visit. On the opposite side of the hallway leading to the lifts, you’ll find a small café alongside a flower stall.I smiled upon seeing it, and the two ladies attending smiled back. They were taking orders from two customers waiting nearby.Hendrix is clever, and I’m very proud of my man.Last night, we didn’t talk about Stephanie and the newly released articles. I felt jealous, but I knew how to manage my jealousy. I trust him and will wait for his explanation.The elevator arrives at the top floor, the fifty-ninth. I exit and am greeted by the company’s prominent logo ad
Hendrix."It's good to see you again, Rosy." I gave her a tight hug and kissed her forehead.She gazed at me faintly, smiling. Her hands felt cold, and she was growing thinner each day. I felt anxious. To me, she didn't seem well, yet I recognized her strong fight for Louise.Last night was calm with Louise. We had a good time together. We never talked about the issues and just set them aside. We kissed, cuddled, and made love. It was solemn and peaceful. Although it does not solve the problem, I think it's probably better that way.I have too much on my plate at the moment, and I'm sorting out my business with Stephanie. I'm doing things one at a time, and I know Louise understands that."Hendrix…" Rosy weakly uttered my name, and I sat down beside her."How are you feeling, Rosy?" My jaw tightened. I knew she was not feeling well. I had a quick chat with Dr. Lou before I proceeded to her unit.The treatment was still ongoing. We are on our second radiation session now, and there ar
Louise Rose.I sat down, and Dr. Lou looked very serious. I haven't seen Rosy—not yet. The food and treats are still inside the paper bags with me.“Look, Louise. I know it’s been some time, and if you’ve noticed, Rosy’s condition is worsening each day.” He paused and glanced at me with a worried expression."Yes, I noticed that. I've been meaning to talk to you, but I've been held up with many things, including my business. Every time I visit, you're either not here or busy with your patients.""Yes, I'm sorry about that. But this time, I could no longer ignore the symptoms, and—"He paused again when my phone suddenly rang. I hadn't muted it."Oh, sorry." I pulled it out of my side pocket and swiped the screen. It was Rosy."Uhm, it's just Rosy. Just hang on for a second, Dr. Lou." I stood up and whirled halfway."Yes, Rosy. I'm already here at the clinic. I'm talking to Dr. Lou. It won't be long, and I will be there. I'll see you in a minute," I said, ending the call.Dr. Lou clear
Louise Rose."What the heck? You attended the event the other day with Hendrix, right?" Shella's eyes were like fire when I looked at her."Why? What's wrong?" I still had my hands on the flowers I had arranged in the vase.After the event and spending the night at Hendrix's place, I visited Rosy the next day. She seemed unwell and uncomfortable, which worried me. So, I decided to stay with her until nighttime to help with her needs. She's got a personal maid, but me being there with her is a different story. I just want to be with her. I don't want to think about that sly Stephanie.I have a few messages and miscalls from Hendrix. I will get back to him later. "Look at this. Have you read this?" She showed me the newspaper. The front page featured a picture of Hendrix's company and the events mentioned. On the next page was a collage of pictures with his cousins, parents, and Stephanie."Where are you? Why aren't you here? They didn’t even mention you at all, as if you didn’t exist
Louise Rose.I lost my smile the moment I saw Hendrix. Anger surged within me, and I recalled what Stephanie had said at the party.“Louise, darling...”Hendrix leaned in to kiss me, but I pulled away. Lilia noticed and cleared her throat before walking away. She left us.Hendrix opens my chair so I can sit down. I never look at him as I take my seat. I’m still upset.“I’m not sure what you’d prefer for breakfast, so I asked Lilia to prepare a variety of options.” He cleared his throat as he placed each dish closer to my plate.I will eat as much as possible and then go to the flower shop branches. That’s my plan for today. We sit in silence while eating, creating an awkward atmosphere. I don’t want to discuss anything and can sense his hesitance to speak.“I’m sorry about what happened last night, Louise.”My lips twitch. Why is he apologizing? Is it because he didn’t inform me about Stephanie? Additionally, I don’t even know what role Stephanie plays in his life aside from being