All Chapters of EXCEPTION: Chapter 1 - Chapter 10

Agonizing pain ripped through my body, penetrating every cell as tears streamed down my cheeks, pleading for him to stop. But Blaine's face twisted into something monstrous, his eyes gleaming with fury. I hugged my body tightly, trying desperately to stifle my sobs. "Please... Blaine, stop." My voice trembled, broken. "I-I just want to eat. What am I supposed to do? I'm hungry. My stomach hurts..." I dared to glance at him, hoping he would soften and his rage would subside. But all I could see in his eyes was burning hatred until, without warning, he ripped off his black belt and began lashing me as if I had committed some heinous, unforgivable sin."You stupid, worthless bitch! How many times do I have to tell you? Don't eat anything!" His voice thundered through the room, his anger savage. "The grand party is tomorrow night! You have to be the most alluring woman there! Do you think stuffing your face is going to help with that? Eating will make you fat and ugly!"His words cut deep

Without saying a word, Courtney grabbed my hand, dragging me outside the house in a rush."Courtney! Where are we going? And why are we running?" I asked, my voice trembling with confusion and fear.A gunshot rang out behind us, loud enough to shake me to my core. My heart pounded in terror with every step, my mind racing with the thought of being hit. I didn't dare look back."What is happening?!" I demanded again, breathless, but he kept running, ignoring me. "Why won't you answer me? Where are you taking me?!"He stayed silent, his face showing apparent frustration at my questions. His furrowed brows told me how annoyed he was by my persistence, as if there was something he couldn't or wouldn't explain. It felt like he was hiding something important.We finally reached a large tree surrounded by thick bushes. He tightened his grip on my hand, pulling me under the cover of the branches. I scanned the area, realizing we were alone, but Courtney was still glancing around, alert, as tho

Courtney’s POVAlmost thirty minutes have gone by since I ordered Oliver to assist Adeleine. That woman is unbelievable. The fact she entrusted her life to me is the most unforeseen thing I’ve ever encountered. Now I’m fucking accountable for her safety.I must admit that the moment I first looked at her, I glimmered something unfathomable. She’s just so damn beautiful. Her beauty is different than all the other women I’ve known. However, judging the scenario earlier proved her life in the hands of her husband was in dire straits. Unfortunately, I knew our encounter would soon end because my life was not a game. I have a cruel fate, and someone like her doesn’t deserve to be part of it. I need to send her to a safe place as soon as possible to ensure she will not be involved in any danger.Right now, I have a serious mission to focus on.I stood facing the man who killed the former president of Viasco Corporation, Macario Alejo—the man who had done so much for me and our town. Macario

Morning finally came, and I woke up feeling woozy with the hangover. It took me a few moments to realize what I did last night.Holy shit!My hands moved to my mouth to cover it up when the scenario began playing in my head like a movie. I was so drunk that I lost control and kissed Courtney without his consent. How am I ever going to explain to Courtney about this? I even recalled how he kissed me back, and that thought alone made my cheeks turn red. But no! I have to act like it was nothing, that my action was unintentional.I tried to regain my composure as I sat down on my bed. There are three paper bags on the floor beside the bed. I checked out each one, and they were full of clothes for me. A smile tugged at the corner of my lips as I imagined Courtney buying these clothes, which only proved how caring and considerate he was. That thought lasted for a few seconds when I glimpsed the clock and realized it was already ten o'clock in the morning.I stood up and took a bath to get

Back to Adeleine's POV It's been one week, and my recovery was much more rapid than I thought possible. Even though Courtney urged me to use the knife and prove my words, I'm not blaming him despite the upshot. To be frank, I'm grateful because I was able to experience the feeling of being taken care of by someone genuinely. It's hard to describe how liberating that feeling is, but I'm happy it lessened my burden. That's one good thing about this treacherous life I'm in. Two diligent doctors, each specializing in different aspects of my well-being. While one meticulously tended to my physical health, the other delved into my psychological well-being. During their meticulous care, Courtney never failed to make sure I was okay. Through his soothing voice over the phone or reassuring visits, he ensured I never felt alone in my journey toward recovery. Words aren't enough to elucidate his kindness, and even without many words from him, the genuineness could still be felt by his actions.