Hazel"Are you implying I'm being held against my will? Because if so, I won't hesitate to raise the alarm and summon the authorities," I asserted, my tone laced with a mixture of defiance and anger. Yet, his stoic demeanor remained unbothered, stoking the flames of my rage."You're not going anywhere, Hazel. There's nowhere for you to flee," he countered, his words landing like a heavy weight upon my shoulders. I despised the truth in his assertion. This sprawling estate was indeed my sole refuge, a fact that filled me with a sense of entrapment."This is your main house, not merely a guest house as you led me to believe," I accused, my voice tinged with resentment. The discrepancy between his portrayal and the reality of the situation gnawed at my sense of trust.Andreylet out a weary sigh, his hand instinctively reaching to massage the furrowed lines of his brow. Though my tantrums threatened to wear down his patience, his gaze softened with genuine concern as he met my eyes. He re
Andrey "What if, we chance upon Amanda or, heaven forbid, mother thinks we are together?" Her words lingered in the air, casting a pall over the atmosphere. I stole a fleeting glance at her, a pang of disappointment coursing through me, though I masked it adeptly. Bringing the car to a halt by the roadside, I turned to face her, her countenance betraying a hint of worry."Why... you stopped... why did we stopped," she queried, her voice tinged with uncertainty. Calmly, I probed her gaze, noting the fleeting glimmer of sorrow before she blinked, her eyes now veiled in sadness. "You don't wish to meet my mamma?" I inquired, maintaining an air of composure. Silence met my inquiry, save for the somber exchange of glances.Placing a tender hand against her cheek, she exhaled softly, her eyelids fluttering shut. "I did not mean it that way," she murmured softly. "You should've told me earlier, I would've bought her something," she continued. A gentle chuckle escaped me, resonating with wa
Hazel I might have said more than I intended to the person I least favored, but I'm relieved I let it out, even though I held back some things I wanted to say. Like how I wanted to tell him what a terrible person his Aunt is and how it's her loss for firing me. But I keep that to myself. Instead, I stand up, get into the car, and know what to do next. He drives me home, and by the time we arrive, it's already past five in the evening. It's surprising how most of the day has slipped away while we were out.As we pull up to his guest house, I notice him stealing glances at the mansion where I now reside. He's probably waiting for me to get out so he can leave, but deep down, I don't want him to go. "I can now see why you don't consider this just a guest house," he remarks with a chuckle, turning to look at me. His eyes hold nothing but sincerity, and I can't help but feel a pang of annoyance at how innocent he appears right now. Various thoughts race through my mind as I gaze at him.
Andrey. Jayden's laughter grated on my nerves, intensifying my frustration. I clicked my tongue in annoyance as he tumbled off my bed, refusing to dignify his amusement with a response. Instead, I turned away and headed to my closet to select my outfit for the day. It was Monday, and I anticipated a whirlwind of work and meetings ahead. Doubt lingered in my mind about whether I'd have a chance to see Hazel today; maybe later in the evening, but nothing was certain. The thought irked me; I'd be sorely disappointed if I missed the opportunity to see her. Recalling that I hadn't visited her yesterday, I resisted the urge to act impulsively. I knew she needed time with her best friend, so I gave them space to reconnect. Despite the gnawing desire to be with her, I found solace in knowing she was safe under my watchful eye. With a heavy sigh, I retrieved a dark blue suit and a crisp white long-sleeved shirt from my wardrobe."She'll hate you even more if she discovers the truth," Jay
Hazel. "I won't accept this," I said firmly, crossing my arms to show how serious I am. I turned my head away, avoiding his captivating gaze. Andrey can be overly generous at times, always eager to lend a hand. What he sees as a grand gesture, others might consider overwhelming. Glancing around the expansive space, I shook my head. I couldn't fathom accepting such an extravagant gift. "I'm not expecting anything in return, please allow me to assist you...""That is all you ever say, Andrey... let me help you! But it's not as simple as you think. You expect me to embrace a whole building dedicated to me for starting a fashion house? It's... it's too much, Andrey..." I paced back and forth, feeling the weight of it all. Initially, I hoped for a new job opportunity, something better than what Amanda gave me, but Andrey had a completely different idea. How could he possibly consider gifting me an entire two-story building without me panicking? It's overwhelming; he's going too far. I r
Andrey. Tears threatened to spill from her eyes, her face flushed with emotion mirroring the fiery hue of her eyes. In the midst of my panic, I couldn't help but notice how adorable she looked when upset, but panic had consumed me entirely. "She's just a friend from my childhood," I hurriedly explained, feeling the weight of Tammy's actions and the impending confrontation that awaited her. I vowed to address her behavior later and demand an explanation for her audacity in intruding upon this moment. "Then why the fuck is she behaving as if you two are fucking every single day?" Hazel exclaimed, her anger palpable. It was a level of fury I had never witnessed from her before.I stood there, my heart pounding against my ribcage, as Hazel's accusations pierced the air like shards of glass. "Hazel, you've honestly got it all wrong," I said, my voice pleading for understanding. "Tammy's nothing to me but a friend and a sister."But she wouldn't hear it. Her eyes blazed with anger, fuel
Hazel. I'm really pissed with myself because I keep checking my phone over and over again, hoping for a call or a text, but nothing ever shows up. It's already past three in the afternoon, and there's still no sign of any contact. I let out a heavy sigh, setting the phone down on the table and covering my face with my hands. I can't shake the feeling that my own harshness might have driven him away. And he was probably telling the truth. I want to believe that he is, yet I've been stubborn, refusing to listen to his pleas."He'll probably come back eventually, they always do," Ann tries to reassure me, gently rubbing my back. I glance at her, trying to appear calm even though my heart feels like it's in chaos."What do you mean? Are you saying I'm worried about Andrey not showing up today?" I ask, even though it's exactly what's been bothering me. She raises an eyebrow, indicating that she knows I'm fretting because of him. I scoff and quickly look away before she can see the mayhem
Andrey. It took me a whole week to persuade her to go out with me. I didn't mind how many days it took. I'm just happy she agreed to meet me. Jayden kept calling me names like coward and fool, but I brushed it off. Anything related to Hazel never bothers me. I'm usually not a patient person, but when it involves her, everything seems calm and serene.Being with her brings a kind of calmness I never imagined experiencing. Sure, she can be stubborn at times, but I see the incredible person she is, and I often make things challenging for her. Even as she keeps her distance, she remains patient with me. I can feel her care for me, and it means the world. I admire how she's uninterested in my wealth, even though I want to shower her with everything I have. I'm willing to sacrifice it all for Hazel. She's a precious gift I refuse to let slip away, so I'll go to any lengths to win her love.As I stand in the dimly lit dining room of S Pastries, I can't help but feel a surge of nervous excit
HazelJayden's hatred for Andrey runs deep, deeper than I could have ever imagined. It's not just me he despises; it's everything Andrey represents. He resents Andrey's wealth, his power, his seemingly charmed life. While Andrey considered him a brother, Jayden nursed a bitter grudge, praying for his downfall at every turn.And why? Because of a tragedy that tore his family apart, a tragedy I knew little about until now. It seems Andrey's actions, or lack thereof, led to the loss of Jayden's sister, Madison. She had been carrying Andrey's child, a fact he denied, and the subsequent abortion cost her life. It's a cruel twist of fate, one that has left Jayden consumed by vengeance.But as he stands before me now, spewing venomous words, I can't help but see him in a different light. He's no longer the friend I once knew; he's become a monster, driven by hatred and a thirst for revenge.I sit on the cold, dirty floor, my eyes locked on him with a mixture of awe and fear, as he contin
Andrey."You should eat something before you blackout," Jayden suggested, his tone surprisingly gentle considering the circumstances. I shot him a glare, unable to fathom how he could even think about food when Hazel's life was hanging in the balance. The very idea of eating made my stomach churn with guilt and anxiety."How can I eat when I know my girlfriend is out there in serious danger?" I snapped, my frustration boiling over. Despite not knowing the full extent of the peril she faced, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at my insides."Look, are you sure this girl didn't just run away and leave town?" Jayden pressed, his skepticism evident in his tone. I clenched my fists, fighting the urge to lash out at him. Enough was enough."If you're not going to help, then I suggest you get the fuck out of here," I retorted, my voice laced with bitterness. He shrugged indifferently, as if my distress meant nothing to him."You said the kidnappers didn't demand money or
Hazel.My stomach was churning like a stormy sea, and I couldn't tell if it was from anxiety or if I was coming down with something. The air was thick with a foul odor that made me want to retch. I took a slow, deep breath, trying to calm myself, and wrapped my arms tightly around my knees. Tears streamed down my cheeks uncontrollably. I was utterly terrified, not knowing what fate awaited me in this grim place.Hours had dragged by, and I hadn't seen a soul pass through the heavy metal door. Voices echoed from beyond, but no one entered. Were they deliberately ignoring me? Were they plotting something sinister? Maybe they intended to abandon me here, alone and helpless. I blame myself for leaving Andrey's house out of anger. Maybe I should have listened to his constant warnings. Maybe I should have asked Sam to drop me at a hotel instead of storming out alone into the unknown streets, vulnerable like prey. Now, I was trapped in this grimy, blood-and-sweat-scented dungeon.The
Hazel."I'll take a look at it first thing tomorrow morning, Lucia. Right now, I've got to get home," I declare, gathering my belongings as I prepare to depart. "Sure thing, I'll send you an email tomorrow," Lucia replies, and with that, I bid her farewell and show her out of my office. Grabbing my handbag, I make my way out of the Palm Angels building. Exhaustion weighs heavily on my shoulders, but the thought of a relaxing shower followed by one of Andrey's heavenly massages brings a smile to my face. Exiting the building, I'm met by the sight of the two bodyguards Andrey has assigned to me. I let out a sigh as I climb into my car. It's a constant reminder of the measures he takes to ensure my safety, though sometimes it feels like I'm being smothered. I pull out of the parking lot, the two guards follow closely behind in their vehicle. It's comforting in a way, knowing they're there, but at the same time, it's a reminder of how much my life has changed since Andrey entered
Andrey. "He could take down any of us," Ezio mused, his voice tinged with apprehension."Or bomb our car," Brando added, his brow furrowed in concern."Or hijack one of us, he's unpredictable," Luca chimed in, his expression grave."Or frame us," Jayden concluded, his tone heavy with worry.While they fretted over worst-case scenarios, I remained seated in my office chair, scrolling through my phone with practiced calmness. "He could take us down, but he can't take down Andrey," Brando declared, catching my attention.I lifted my gaze, fixing it on him. He must have sensed my annoyance because his expression faltered. I hated it when they insinuated that I was somehow superior to them. We were equals, in every sense of the word. When one of us stumbled, we all stumbled. When one of us faced trouble, we were all plunged into the depths."You're not saying anything, like this isn't something to give two shits about," Jayden remarked, his gaze shifting to me.I turned my attenti
Hazel. It's crazy to think we're already two months into this relationship. I've never been happier, even with our little spats now and then. But Andrey, he just keeps making me smile, finding new ways to show his love. I never thought true love was real after Chris, but being with Andrey proves me wrong. Sure, his job as a mafia boss is scary, but he's so good at making me forget about that side of him. Sometimes, I even forget he's not just the CEO of Sandro House, but also a mafia boss with secrets darker than night. Everywhere I go, people treat me with more respect. It's flattering, but sometimes I wonder if it's because I deserve it or just because I'm with someone most people are scared of."Where should I put this?" he asks, planting a sweet kiss on my forehead, causing a fit of giggles to bubble up from within me. "Just leave it on the kitchen counter; I'll sort it out later tonight," I reply, exhaling deeply. Despite the excitement, I can't shake off the nerves after
Andrey."I thought you hated these fancy shindigs," she says, sprawled out on the bed. I let out a sigh, adjusting my tie in the mirror. "I do," I confess. "But there's someone I need to find, and I'm pretty sure they'll be there," I explain. Glancing at my reflection, I see myself in my usual black suit, crisp white shirt, and a sleek black tie. Hazel did a surprisingly great job styling my hair, and I can't help but feel amused at how good she did it.Snatching my wristwatch off the dresser, I slip it on. Just then, Hazel joins me in front of the mirror, wrapping her arms around me from behind. Her warmth brings a smile to my face. "Why can't I tag along?" she complains, poking her head around my side. I turn to face her, taking in her adorable pout.She hugs me again, resting her chin on my chest as she gazes up at me. With her doe-like eyes pleading, it's hard to resist.I wrapped my arms around Hazel as she stood there, pouting in the cutest way imaginable. "The event is only
Hazel. "He really shouldn't have pulled that stunt," I chuckled, shaking my head at Drake's amusing story. "Jumping into a pool just to impress a girl? That's a whole new level of craziness."Drake nodded in agreement, his laughter mingling with mine. "Exactly! It's like he forgot he couldn't swim in the heat of the moment. Talk about a reckless move."As our laughter died down, I found myself intrigued by the idea of meeting Drake's twin. "I'd be curious to see if you two really do look alike," I admitted, leaning back on the desk.Drake shrugged nonchalantly, taking a sip of his drink. "Physically, maybe. But personality-wise, we're polar opposites. Trust me, I've got better taste in women than he does," he added with a playful smirk, his gaze roaming over me appreciatively.I couldn't help but smile at his comment, feeling a hint of flattery despite myself. Leaning in slightly, I couldn't resist asking, "And what type of women are you attracted to, exactly?"Drake met my gaz
Andrey.There are moments in my life where I could care less about the twists and turns, as if they're mere blips on my radar. But betrayal? That's a different story altogether. Betrayal gets under my skin, it crawls into my bones and ignites a fire in my veins. It's a line you don't cross, a boundary you dare not breach. Ezio Mauro, well, he's crossed that line. He's strayed far from where he belongs, starting a brawl he's sure to regret. A brawl he might not walk away from.I just discovered he signed that contract right after learning about Hazel and me. He knew exactly what he was doing, the snake. And Hazel's mother, what was she thinking? Sacrificing her own daughter like that, like she's nothing more than a pawn in some twisted game. How could she be so blind, so selfish? What if something happens to Hazel? Who will be next in line for her twisted schemes? Betrayal cuts deep, and I won't let this one slide. Not without consequences.As much as I hate to admit it, Hazel's mot