The Romeo and Juliet's Billion Worth Marriage

"Stop."

But I didn't dare to. From the moment I heard him plead for me to stop, I continued further unto my plan. Besides, my position is rather comfortable and beneficial for my part. I won't trade anything as pleasant because of a word.

"Elle, NOT TODAY..."

His words made me stop, staring at him for a moment. I can feel my lips quirking up into a smile.

"Elle. Not now..."

I stared back at him, disliking the way his eyebrows were furrowed. Now I have to deal with the snappy old Gabe again. I get off his desk and strut around his chair, earning another groan from him.

"Elle"

"Okay, Okay. I'm going out now." I stated in a nonchalant tone, shrugging my shoulders. But before I completely went out, I gave him something to remember.

I lean down on his seat, a smile plastered on my face. I grabbed his cheek using both of my hands and kissed him. I pulled his lower lip with my teeth, hearing him groan, "El"

"Elleana Cassidy!" Oops, almost full name. Oh, well. I still won't stop, Mr. West.

I grin. No one really knows Gabriel West as well as I do.

It was all a misunderstanding. People thought he was heartless and a git, and I thought so too when I married him. It's not like we married because we fell in love. It was all just a partnership a partnership that has created a very powerful company, GreeneWest Holdings Inc.

This dog's dinner all started a year ago.

When my father called me from Paris to get my ass back here in New York right at that very moment, I knew something was up. I am worried sick because he won't tell me the reason. I thought it was my mom or something that concerned my past, but as I stepped out of the cab, I knew that the reason why I was there had nothing to do with my family. Or even me.

It was for the freaking company.

The memory was so vivid that I had to smile every time I reminisced that day. The day that my husband and I met back at his father's office. We both went mad when they announced the agreement, but we did nothing to stop it.

We are born to comply.

The craziest thing is that we even have to marry before the end of the month. Not to mention the fact that we had only two weeks to prepare, not enough time to plan for a very grand celebration. The wedding was simple and close to the paparazzi. It happened inside a chapel in Italy, with only our relatives and close friends witnessing it, but privacy was not maintained. Soon, a couple of paparazzi came to our reception, spoiling our supposedtobe first dance.

Of course, a billion worth of marriage is breaking news! Two rival families joined as one is a century's worth of history.

It was that kind of cliché the notsonormal billionaire cliché.

But the fact that Gabriel had actually moved to his penthouse after the reception had finished was insane for me, at least. Not to mention the weeklong honeymoon vacation spent only by me in Miami. Only me, swimming on the beach while he types away on that piece of metal they call 'laptop' somewhere inside his 'cave.'

Yet the assumption of us not going to have a chance at this marriage changed the moment we got back to New York.

It was all because of that chocolate cake I gave him for his birthday. If I only knew that a chocolate cake was the key to our relationship, I would have acceded to making pastries and offered him all the chocolate cakes I could ever bake.

I did not expect that he would open up to me right after he had his first bite. I guess I'd never get the chance to possess his heart if I didn't choose to bake the blasted cake. It was an effort not wasted, indeed.

I was so engrossed in reminiscing about our past that I hadn't realized that I was now sitting on his lap again. My hands rake his hair as I moan, grinding myself against his John Thomas.

"Elleana...oh, Dio!" He groaned, crashing his head on my neck as he took a whiff.

I was about to start undressing him and let him do the DID to me, as I was currently up for it, when his phone rang. "MIO DIO!" He spat, pulling his phone from his pocket.

"West," he answered, his eyes not leaving me as his lips flattened themselves into a line. A slight frown developed on them as he listened to the voice from the other side, his expression growing gloomy. I sat there, feeling awkward, as I slipped my blouse on and fixed my skirt. Gabriel raises an eyebrow at my action and turns his attention back to the call.

I sigh, getting up from his lap only to sit on his desk. I watch him as he talks on the phone. He was speaking in Italian so fluently that I hadn't had the chance to understand a single thing. I wish I have taken a liking to it rather than my French class. Who knows if I will marry an Italian someday?

I am almost ready to give myself to him completely, but I guess now is not a perfect time. I was taken aback when he stood, ending the call before looking down at me, his eyes wild with emotions: Fear, anger, loss, and guilt.

"What happened, Gabe? Tell me, Bello..." I tried to grab his arm, but he pulled away, raking his hands on his hair. "It's Papa..." He stated, his voice breaking before he ran out of the door.

"Gabriel," I ran down the stairs, following his steps, but his strides were longer than mine.

"Gabe!" We were out of the house now. He swiftly entered the garage, the lights switching on their own accord as he went farther, taking his keys and clicking a button to unlock his car.

"Gabe..." He abruptly stopped and stared back at me before he made a move to open the car door. "Gabriel," I latch myself on him as though my life depended on it. We stand there, looking at each other with so many words unspoken between the two of us. Gabriel shakes his head before he kisses my forehead and says, "Ti Amo..."

I know then that everything will change.

"We've done all that we could, but we cannot save him."

"There's too much blood lost."

"We found him in his office, already dead."

"The gun is nowhere in sight."

"The company needs you..."

"You are the appointed heir, and you cannot escape this, Gabriel."

"We need to process the documents as fast as possible."

"The company depends on you now,"

I was lying down on our bed, sheets tangled on my feet, mourning someone that hasn't really left me. I silently cried, holding tight to the sheets as I folded myself in a fetal position. The dusk has settled, and slowly, the night begins to capture my surroundings as though it were a thin blanket being draped over the land. I sniffled and sighed.

I am almost there.

I'd never seen this coming, and I never expected this after all that had happened a couple of months ago. I thought everything was going alright, that everything I had worked for and cultivated over the months would finally bear fruit. I've never imagined that something like this would change everything, that this kind of happening would alter the current "US."

I thought that everything was perfect.

I thought he finally accepted me, that he was willing to risk the chances and be with me. I thought that we were going to have a chance in this relationship, but I was wrong. So wrong. I haven't seen this coming.

Now, Gabriel's beyond my reach, a billion miles away. He's so cold, so rude. He doesn't care, nor would he even care what happens to me. He's now back to being an insensitive jerk like he was a year ago. He had shut himself off not only from me but from the world, also.

He's back to that shell of a man he once was.

Gone is the one I have fallen the most. Gone is he, to the deepest of the earth. I know that he's not going to come back, but I'm still hoping. I am waiting for him to fight and resurrect give me his smiles, those smoldering looks that feel as though he is holding me. He'll cuddle me in, peppering kisses, and he'll hug me to death. Too much wishful thinking is for I know that it's not likely to happen.

We've had so many fights these days that I thought about giving up. It has been five months now since his father's passing. It shattered me to think that he blamed me for it. He thought that it was my family who plotted the murder of his father. I thought it would change when we had already found who the killer was, but as the days passed, he chose to forget my presence. He dwells more on his grief and neglects the fact that he has a wife to lean upon.

I'm nothing in his eyes.

Sometimes, in a mere second, his cold mask is gone, and he'll smile at me, but as fast as it came, it is as fast as it fades. He'll give me that poker face again and let me suffer into oblivion. I don't understand why he blamed me for it. I didn't do anything wrong for him to suspect me, and if it is his only excuse to make me guilty and leave him, that will never happen.

I really missed him, and even though he's so cold to me, I still love him.

I lost track of seconds, hours turning to days, days transitioning to nights. Those memories we've had from the past few months faded in the background, and my lips trembled as I tried so hard to hold unto them.

I twisted my body and stared up at the ceiling, my thoughts running. He always made me feel alone and empty every time he left. I frown. It would have been nice to have some company. A small smile tugged at my lips, and the feeling it brought me was so bizarre, for I hadn't felt this happy before. He won't like the idea of it, but I decided right then and there that I want something he doesn't want.

I'm determined to have my way. I would do it one way or another.

ELLE

"So, Gabe, Elle...when are you going to give us something like her?"

Mom carried my niece up in her arms as she gave us that look. My face felt like someone had set it on fire, and I felt Gabriel's arms tensing around my waist as he cleared his throat.

We are currently at a party thrown by my mother for our first anniversary. Yes, it's been a year since our wedding; a year since all of these started. This is the first party after the conflict that happened. It was also the first one to which Gabriel agreed to go with me.

I was startled when my dad suddenly piped in, "We're so old. We still wanted to play with our grandkids, see them grow...you know?" Dad muses as he snatches the baby from mom, "Oh, you little pumpkin. Don't you look a lot like your grandmother?" He laughed, making my niece cry. I sigh, scratching my forehead as I pull away from Gabriel, surprising him.

"Dad, let me take her back to Cassandra. I'm sure little Cece here wanted to be with her mom now." I smiled at them, taking the infant in my arms and chancing a look at my husband.

Gabriel is frowning down at his shoes like he's trying to solve a very complicated problem. He appears to be in some kind of pain. My heart aches for him, but I shake my head. I have tried a couple of times before to offer him my help, but he refused, ignoring me. If only he would tell me what to do or how I could help him.

I do not know how I can show him how I feel. I do not know how to tell him how much I love him. We are back to how we started a year ago, living like total strangers.

I smiled bitterly, tucking a hair on my ear. I remember the first time we met at the company, The West Holdings. It is where our love/hate relationship was born.

"Gabe, are you okay?" I tried to grab his hand, but he shoved it inside his pocket. He looks down at little Cece and me before giving me half a smile that tugs on my heartstrings. "I'm fine, Elle. Maybe, I just need a drink or two?" He held out his two fingers, biting his lip as he looked at me.

Oh, no. You don't. I know that it won't be just two. You will get drunk again and cry about your father's death. Plus, you are driving me back to.

"Okay," Oh my ...where did that come from?!

"Elle, give me back my Cece." I glared at my cousin, sighing in exasperation as I turned and found that my husband was long gone.

That git, he just doesn't care!

"Elle, Come on. Let's have some fun. It's your anniversary! I mean... birthday?" the blonde imp hiccups and smiles as he makes his way down to us, sporting a shimmering blue onesie. "Either." Frances mused, dragging me to the dance floor.

This family I always wondered how I would be able to relate to them. They are so eccentric and...odd. Very odd.

I removed my heels and stared at my cousin, "What now, Frances? What scheme?" They didn't give me a chance to stand my ground and protest when Frances carried me in his arms and shoved me on the dance floor. "Frances! You're making me dizzy, just put me baAAhhh!!!" The glass crash as I collapse on the drink display.

I struggled with my wet dress, glaring at the crazy cousin of my husband. He freaking pushed me!

"HahaElle. Uh, I'm so sorry but, uh," He gave me a constipated look before bursting out, laughing, spluttering his drink around the other guest who looked at him with delight dancing in their eyes. Bizarre! "You just, hahahaLooks like a cat thrown out while it is raining. You are soaked like a wet pussyHahaha! PUSSY !" He throws his head back before strutting to the dance floor, leaving me with the mess he made.

"Damn it, Frances! Help me out." I called out. I blindly grope around, trying to hold myself up, when I felt someone hauling me up. I quickly raised my head to see who it was when Cassandra gave me a disapproving look. She ushered me up to the front door, calling for Taylor our personal driver slash assistant.

Taylor offered me a kind smile, and I smiled back at him. He was like the good old uncle I have never had, and I am glad he is our personal driver. I look down at my hands and huff, glaring down at the wet gown.

I wonder why ladies needed a balloon skirt and high heels. It's freaking stupid. And who made these damn heels? It makes my life harder. Even if it gave me a little addition to my height, it is still a pain in the as.

I was surprised when the engine stopped, and Taylor opened the door for me. "Mrs. West, let me assist you," He started to carry my gown, which made me stand in haste. "No, Taylor. I can do this myself..." I can feel the heat rushing up my cheeks as I walk past him.

I was about to open the doors when I came with a thought, "Taylor?" He looked back at me as I smiled at him, "Mrs. West?"

"Oh, please...stop calling me that. Just call me Elle." I gave him another smile as he bowed, ushering me inside the mansion. I went up the flight of stairs, grumbling with every step I took. I was delighted to reach our room at the end of the hallway. I made my way inside the bathroom and stripped off every item on my body.

Hmph...like I care!

'Elle,'

"Who's that?!" I jump out of the shower and wrap myself up in a fluffy towel.

'Elleeee!'

"Wait, I'm in the bathroom!" I opened up the door only to see no one. "Gabe? Stop kidding me!"

'ELLEANA!' oh, I hate that name. I sound like a fucking alien.

I look around, but he's not in here, so WHERE IS HE?!

"Gabe, stop kidding me! Show yourself right at this moment or"

'Help me up!' I can hear shuffling from the other side of the room, which means he's outside.

"Coming, Mister." I turned the knob only to feel his body slump back unto my knees, making me stumble with him on the floor

"Gabriel, you're so heavy!" I whined, trying to pull my husband up, but I failed. "Gabe, wake up. Please..." I looked at him, but he just gave me a lazy smile and kissed me.

WTF! HE DIDN'T JUST KISS MY LIPS...oh well!

"Gabriel, stop!" he gave me a laugh before deepening his kiss and carrying me, "Gabe"

He throws me down on the bed as I grip the towel tight. "Gabe, I think, I think you're not ready. We're not ready, and you're drunk. You don't know what you're doing. You just"

"NO! I know what I'm doing, and you don't have the right to correct me!" He yanked the towel off and stared at me, "I want you, and I'll have you, now or never..."

I can see his tense muscles beneath his dress shirt as he lowers himself down at me. He unbuttons his pants and slips them down to reveal himself camping in those boxers, his very excited John Thomas trying to poke out of them.

"Gabe, please. You are drunk. We can't"

"Stop it!" he pulled my hand up and placed them above my head as he straddled me. I can feel excitement overcoming my nervousness as his hands start skimming my chest, brushing my hair aside, "Don't push me farther away, Elle. I've had enough."

"But we can't"

"I need you. I NEED YOU..."

That made me gulp. Damn, he is turning me on with his words. So hot, but am I really up for it? I shake my head and frown in concentration I am a married woman, and this is my husband, and I have needs, so why not?

He interrupted my thoughts as he leaned down, making me speechless as my thoughts ran wild in my cranium. I am unable to comprehend. What should I do? Should I, really?

I am surprised when my body suddenly responds with such intensity I didn't know I was capable of doing. I am now relying on my instinct the animal that has been slumbering within.

He skimmed his hands on my face, pushing tendrils of hair to the side as he reached my neck. He leans in and imprints a love bite. "Beautiful. My beautiful girl. All mine..."

I could not help but moan, my hands struggling to break free as he sucked a bit on my neck. He slipped his mouth down on my chest as he took one of my nipples, nibbling at it.

"Gabe," I mentally shake my head as I hear my own voice. So, needy. Pathetic, even. I cannot just moan here and let him do it all.

I need to move.

I yanked my hand off his grip and unbuttoned his shirt, trying to memorize every contour of his sculpted chest before I slipped my hand down his biceps, pushing down his white dress shirt as I reached his hips, slipping my hands lower and lower...

"Gabe!" I tried not to shake as he slipped his finger into my core, turning them into a circular motion. "Don't" I plead, but my husband just looks at me. His eyes twinkled with amusement as he pushed another finger.

So, he wants it. Then let us make things equal.

With that thought, I slipped my hand into his boxers and pushed them down. His body stiffened as he stared at me with eyes wide as saucers, "Mio Dio! What are you trying to prove, amóre?" he asked, his voice stopping in an edge as he used the same endearment that almost made me stop.

"Shit, Elle..." He moaned in my ears as I pulled at it and stroked, his member hardening at every move. After a while, he recovered, pushing his fingers to move farther into my core. He circled them in my folds as both of us screamed each name.

I've never expected this to happen cause I would never have imagined doing this with him.

Especially him.

I am brought back to the situation I'm in as I felt his member enter me, which made me stiff. I whimpered as it penetrated deeper, making me cry out in pain, and he stopped, "You're a virgin!?" He frowned, his member throbbing inside of me.

"God, I'm so I'm so sorry I"

"Shhh...No, I'm not." Lie. "I'm... adjusting. I need you, Gabe. Please, don't stop...just do it, now." Faster and harder this time, our bodies tangled and sweating. Our breathing labored as I tried to remove my hands from his grip and entangle them in his hair. I dug my nails into his back as I arched my hips to meet his. His hips buck on me as he moves in haste, pounding my body and making the bed shake.

I grasped his hair with my hand, pushing myself up as I tried to keep up with his speed. I could feel something building up inside my stomach, and then it happened; his hips buckling as he had his release. I can feel his seed flowing inside of me, giving a warm feeling to my lower stomach as we grab each other. We are trying to catch our breath as we glisten with sweat, dazed with passion.

I was surprised when he suddenly turned me, throwing me down as he lay me on my stomach, entering me from behind.

"Now, I'll fuck you..."

We've done it three times, his breath hitching on every thrust. I was surprised when he suddenly collapsed on me after his third release, knocked out cold and asleep. I caressed his face as I whispered in a gentle voice, hoping that we would stay like this forever.

"I love you, Gabe. Why can't you see that?"

ELLE

I woke up in haste.

I could feel the cold wind hit my back as I stretched out, feeling sore and tired as I turned, groaning. The sun burns my eyelids, and I raise my arm to shield my face from its glare. I'm close to sleeping again, only to hear the devil speak,

"You're awake now..."

I open my eyes and realize that the devil again possessed the affectionate man I slept with last night. What happened last night made me blush both in embarrassment and anger.

Why must he be so cold and heartless now when I feel great? He loves to ruin my precious moments.

Without looking at him, I muttered in a small voice, "Yes, I am."

I waited another minute for him to go and let me sleep, but when I opened my eyes, I still saw him there sitting on the couch, watching me like dirt on his carpet.

"Why are you still here? Don't you have to go to your office?" I glance at the clock at my bedside table and huff, "It's 9 in the morning. Don't you have some meetings to attend?"

He rolled his eyes at me and I gulped. Am I going to be berated because of what I said? I bit my lip, having this urge to slap myself. "I waited for you to wake up." He snapped, his gaze lingering on my blushing face. I hastily bowed my head, for my cheeks felt hot, and I couldn't stop.

"And?" I urge him to continue, pulling the comforter high on my chin as I sit up and muster the courage to stare at him. He sighs, running his hands through his hair, "I waited to apologize about what happened last night." He confessed.

"Oh? That's all you're going to say?" I bit my lip and nodded my head, saying, "It's okay"

I was startled when he snapped his fingers, pulling my chin to make me look at him. "I'm so sorry if I took advantage of you last night, and I promise it won't happen again. I promise." With those words, he straightens up, leaving me shocked as I try to understand what he just said. I look up at him, and he surprises me more when he leans down swiftly, kissing my cheek. "I need to be at the office at ten. I'll see you tonight..."

I watch as he takes his leave, shutting the door behind him. The tears I'd been trying to suppress from the last ten minutes he was in front of me betrayed me, falling hot against my cheek as I sobbed. And what is the use of trying to stop them? He isn't here to judge me or bully me. I am all alone, Always alone. Gabriel had made it clear of our positions I will always be a step behind him, for we are always in sync, even from the very start of our relationship.

Still, I had hoped.

I thought we were perfect last night, that we finally had a chance to fix our relationship and get back to how we were before, but he shut himself off again, returning to that monster I had feared. It hurts me that he keeps treating me like this and doesn't care about me or what I do. I wouldn't say I like the fact that he treats me like trash after he's done with me.

How could I be so stupid that I give it all to him?

I'm used.

I know full well that we married because of the company's sake and not because of love, but then...we fell. Or so I thought. Was it just me that had fallen to that cheeky bastard?

AM I WRONG? Am I wrong to fall for his tricks and yearn for him to love me back?

I thought he finally accepted me last night, yet I have made myself believe a drunken man's words. I am foolish and stupid, and I hate that I turn like this with him. If only I could, I would bring back memories that way, we were together only about a few months ago, living in simplicity and happiness as we culture the love that is developing between us.

But now it seems impossible. He's back to that monster I have married...

I grab the sheets and cringe when I see blood on them. My virginity, I gave it to him and even lied to him because I am a fool, a fool who is in love with a man that has so many issues. I yank the sheets off to change them with a new ones.

I don't care if he's going to be like this forever. I'm pretty sure the divorce papers are on their way, and he couldn't wait to get rid of me. He's probably waiting for the right time for me to give in and let him be. Besides, the year is up. He wants me to yield and have him win this.

Though I won't be the one that is going to wave the white flag, I know that in the end, it will be him.

Oh, before I forget, I muttered to myself, "Happy Birthday to me."

"Elle.."

"ELLEANA!" I sat up on the tub only to cover my chest with my hands, my cheeks heating up.

"Wwhy are you in here?" I held his blue eyes as he frowned down at me, though it didn't hide the amusement in them. Gabriel brushes his hand on his hair as he enters further inside the bathroom. I look around, noticing that it has grown darker; my fingers have gone wrinkly, and I feel cold.

How many hours have I been in here?

Gabriel leans back, his expression unreadable as he removes his tie. I bit my lip and adjusted in the tub, trying to grab as many bubbles as possible but failing since they had already dissolved. I worriedly tried to lower myself into the water in an

attempt to cover myself, but Gabriel remained standing there, his eyes glued to my chest. I bit my lip as I saw him watching me, the amusement now clear in his eyes. I glared at him and tried my best to cover myself with my hands.

Gabriel snorted, "There's not much to cover, so don't bother with it. Besides," He shakes his hands and smiles, "I've seen it all last night." I can feel my neck tingling as I splash water on him, my eyes widening at his words. "If you've come here to tease me, you don't have to embarrass me further by pointing out how I am a disgrace to women's race!"

His lips quirked up, and Gabriel straightened, his eyes still holding mine, "Frances gave me a chocolate cake," He poked his tongue on his cheek and continued, " he told me that you want that flavor, so"

"What?" I asked him out loud, not sure if he was serious about sharing the chocolate, considering that it was his favorite. He gave me a look before continuing, "Do you like to share it?" He stares at me with his hooded blue eyes looking me up and down. His eyes lingered on the level of my chest, halfburied in the water and my hands.

I cleared my throat, "Of course! I will eat it with you." I blush about what I said, seeing the ghost's smirk on his lips. "If you must, you should go down while I change." He raised an eyebrow in my direction, and I splashed water on him again. It takes him a minute or two before he takes his leave, chuckling as he closes the door. I swiftly take the towel from the hinge and wrap myself in it, leaning my back at the door and locking it.

I am pretty sure that I have locked it. That cheeky bastard! He loves to tease me when I am in my most vulnerable, unprepared state.

I could not believe that Gabriel had seen me naked again, and I hated that I was feeling different kinds of emotions. Not to mention the sight of his happy friend straining against his jeans at the sight of me. Oh, joy!

I headed inside our closet and rummaged for my clothes, a bit distracted by my thoughts. I am quite ashamed of how I acted toward him. How can I be so flustered after seeing him there? I should've tried to act as normally as I could. I guess I am just shocked at the sight of him staring at me from the door while I lay naked in the tub. As for the cake, I thought he bought it for me. I guess he has forgotten about my birthday, considering that he doesn't even bother to know about it.

I grab a tee and boxers on my side of the closet before putting them on since this is what I call a sleeping outfit, for I am not a fan of lacy lingerie or nightgowns. I quickly dressed, shivering as I did so. I slipped into my favorite bunny slippers and headed down the kitchen, a bit surprised to see my husband preparing dinner.

Well, that's new.

I have never seen a man in a black suit preparing dinner. Not to mention a really hot guy preparing dinner. Did I just say that my husband is hot?

I think I did, but I'm not going to say that out loud. Not ever.

I took a seat and was surprised when a hand slipped on my shoulder, putting a plate in my line of vision, "Chocolate..." I nodded my head, watching him as he took his seat, looking at me.

"El, I have something to tell you..."

Oh great, here it is, the mighty announcement. Elle, we're going to have a divorce...Wtf. What the fuk or Well, that's fantastic? Can I really accept this?

I wring my hands together, biting my lip as I nervously stared at him, his eyes focused on his own slice of chocolate cake. "It's about our divorce, right?" I murmured after a while of silence. Gabriel raised his head to nod in my direction. "Okay. You'll say that you don't want to be with me now, are you?" he sighed, so I continued.

"You are tired of trying. You are exhausted and annoyed. You are irritated to see this wonder, as you clearly stated. Am I right?" I pointed at my face as he clenched his fist, his eyes still downcast. He made a move to take a bite from his cake, still training his gaze down at it.

I breathe out, my hands trembling. I long to strangle him and make him see how I am feeling. I wanted to give him a taste of what he was doing to me, make him hurt as I do. But how exactly am I to do that when the man sitting in front of me doesn't care? I sigh. "Well, when do we sign the papers?" I bit my lip to stop myself from whimpering.

Can't he see that this is hurting me? He's so insensitive.

A silence settled between the two of us. I tried to even out my breath, my hands trembling on my lap as I bowed my head, now losing the courage to stay here and be with him. If it is what he wants, then I will let him have his way. I guess my opinion doesn't really matter to him. He never really showed me some affection ever since the happening.

I grab another spoonful and shove it in my mouth. It did not stop him from pestering me for answers, and as I swallowed the remains down, looking at him, "Let it be."

I got out of my seat and washed my own dish, still not caring that he was following me around the kitchen an everlingering presence of the feeling I kept trying to suppress.

I wonder why he is acting like this when a few hours ago he was telling me that he can't love me the same way I did to him. So why ask me about extending it?

Is he finally interested in me because he had a taste of my body last night?

"Elle, I know you want us to work, and I'd be happy to" I tune out his monologue and focus my attention on the task at hand. After a while, he returns to his seat. I could hear him talking on the phone, but I couldn't care less. He has made it clear to me this morning that I believe I cannot sway him off his principles of being the insufferable man that he is. "Elle, you can't get away from this forever." He told me before resuming the call with his client.

I passed him by, heading up the stairs so I could finally retire for the night. The hallways were dimly lit, and I ran my hands at the walls, thinking about when I will be kicked out of there. Will he laugh at me as I haul my luggage down the stairs? I bet he will be so happy if he helps me carry it out or not. I was walking wistfully, occupied with my thoughts when I heard his footsteps behind me. As I turn to my room,

"Gabe..." I warned him, turning around to face him, only to gasp as I saw no one. Geez, could it be possible that I'm hallucinating about all these?

I shake my head and enter the room, dropping myself down on my bed. Yes, it's my bed because he never sleeps here, except last night. He never really slept here in this house in the first place, for he has a freaking penthouse on top of his building, and I never had the chance to see it, or would I ever have the chance to because I only have a year left or less if he wants.

Brilliant.

I wonder if my parents know about this arrangement or if "Elle, move your small bum off my side."

Oh! The pillow talks.

I turned to my left only to see the man in a suit now dressed in tees like...mine. "Who told you that you could borrow my shirt?" I pinched his sides only to earn a groan instead of an answer. Gabriel rolled his eyes as he turned at me, his face dimly lit by the bedside lamp.

"Well, this is mine, okay?" He pointed down at my shirt and said, "This is my home, my room, my bed, my shirt, Mine!" he frowned at me, turning to his side, "I'll sleep now..."

"No, you shouldn't! You promise you won't sleep with me, and this is my room, Gabe. My bed and that," I pulled the tee from his back and tried to remove it.

Keyword 'TRIED'

"ThatismySHIRT!"

He sighs, running his hand on his hair before turning back and flipping us so that he is trapping me below. He gave me one of those devilish smirks that made my heart flutter, and he flicked his tongue on my cheek and leaned down to kiss me.

Wtf! This freakin' arse kissed me again!

"This is my room, mi amore. My shirt, see?" He pulled it out of his body and showed the tag that said 'GABE.'

"But, but" He pulled the shirt out of my head, goosebumps appearing on my neck and shoulders as the cold air touched my exposed skin. He leans to show me the same tag, giving me a smirk as he gazes down my breast.

Oh my, my. Oh my...

I covered my exposed part as he chuckled, throwing me his shirt as I scrambled to put it on me as fast as possible. I could feel my cheeks heating up as I tried to cover myself from him.

I can't believe that he saw me naked for the third time, again.

I pulled the blanket over me as I replayed everything. God, one minute he talks about our divorce, then the next thing I know is I'm lying down below him, naked. I snuggled close to my pillow and closed my eyes tightly.

Goodness, this is so embarrassing, but I can't forget it...can I?

ELLE

It wasn't a usual occurrence that I find myself lying on top of someone else's chest much more when it was the devil himself, my husband.

Surprised, I hide my face in his chest, overwhelmed by his heavenly scent. I breathe in and sigh, snuggling closer to him. The morning was a pretty shade of gold and pale blue. The sun was about to wake the people up, peeking through the drawn curtains, the breeze lightly entering from the open window. I shivered, snuggling closer to him, making me bite down a giggle as his chest hair tickled me. My eyes widen as I realize that he is naked beneath me.

Does it mean that something happened last night?

I quickly checked beneath the blankets and sighed in relief when he was wearing some boxer shorts, his happy little friend camping inside, my cheeks flushing. I averted my gaze and stared around the room as the sun illuminated our wedding picture. I looked so happy that day because even if it was an arranged marriage, I married the man I had always wanted for a long time.

It is because of this that I have fallen for him.

We were later found asleep, snuggled close to each other. He was the first to wake up. He roughly pushes me against the side of the cupboard, making me hit my head. Even if he hurt me, I will never forget the way he looks at me, so full of shame and guilt. No matter how much I tried to deny it, I have been caught in the trap.

All those years, I have managed to hide it from him, refusing to get in his inner circles and keeping to my own as we finished college, not until my father called me back to New York and arranged for me to marry him. I was aghast, for I could not believe how fate had played me.

Now, as I lay next to him, listening to his quiet breathing, I believe I am lucky enough to be his wife for a year. I turn my head so I can stare back at him, too surprised to react. I held my breath as I studied his face, his stubble lightly brushing my forehead as I tried to lean closer. He is really here, lying so peacefully. Does he even notice that I am on top of him?

He probably doesn't feel it because he hadn't pushed me off. I can feel my neck getting stiffer by the minute. I push myself up on my elbows and look down at him. My eyes were glued to his face; I was really struggling not to lean down and kiss him. I'm still finding it hard to believe that we slept together on the same bed for the second time and that nothing happened last night. I slowly lean back on my pillow, letting out a sigh.

Not having the level of selfcontrol I wish I had, I took another peek again and observed him. His hair is tousled, and his lips open slightly for him to breathe. He was so peaceful. He looks so young and gentle as he lies beside me, unaware that I am practically salivating over his majestic appearance.

Why did God make him perfect?

This precious moment is enough for me to choke back a tear and smile. Even though he's cold and heartless most of the time, there is still a side of him that's warm. I believe if he tried hard enough, he is still capable of caring for someone.

The fact that he didn't leave this morning made me consider it a wonderful miracle. It was the first time that I was able to spend one waking moment he was here beside me, snoring softly as I looked at his face.

I swallowed a lump in my throat as my gaze fell back on his lips. I couldn't help it I traced his brow, his defined cheek, that strong jaw, and a perky nose. I didn't even realize that his eyes were already open as I traced my way up to his forehead again, my fingers freezing on top of his brow. The sight of his opened eyes made me stare at him in surprise. I draw my hand back, my heart hammering inside my ribcage that it is a wonder how he is not hearing it.

I continue staring at him, thoughts running wild inside my head. Now I have to face the consequences of complementing the features of my own husband...

" I guess you're done playing with my face, Mrs. West." The simple address to me made me almost jump out of there and run. What had this man eaten last night that made him this, this sweet? And sarcastic.

Yep, sarcastic. The latter is better.

I tilt my head to the side, biting my tongue to avoid my mind from giving off any smart remark. I don't want to ruin his mood, most specifically when he is this playful. I have experienced worse mornings in the past because of how talkative I am. Living with Gabe has taught me to be silent, speaking only when acknowledged.

Gabriel just gave me a smirk before leaning on my forehead, kissing me swiftly, making my heart go haywire as I tried not to faint.

Wait, am I still dreaming? Is this even real?

I was surprised when a velvet remark brought me back to my senses, followed by a pinch on my cheek, "No, love. You aren't dreaming. And, just like you stated, this is very much real." He gave me another pinch to my already red cheek, and I had to duck my head slightly to keep my tomato face hidden from him. I'm blushing so hard that I probably look like a cherry rather than a tomato.

He startled me when he wrapped his arms around me and made me sit up, his form towering over me. I feel so small next to him. He stared down at me, giving me a gentle smile, "Those cherry blushes are better than pale cheeks. I guess I have to pinch your face every waking moment so you'll stay like that every day..." That did it! I was about to pinch his cheek when he suddenly bolted, running off to the bathroom.

This is wrong.

I have never expected a playful Gabe, especially in the morning. I may have seen it a few months ago, but I never foresaw him returning this soon. I guess I would have to thank Frances for that chocolate cake he'd given me. I'm sure he'd thrown whatever potion he had from his cupboard and made it into a cake. I guess Frances knows that Gabe loves chocolates and wants to relieve us of some stress by giving them to Gabe.

I straighten up, fixing my hair with my fingers, contemplating my choices. Should I go inside the bathroom to brush my hair and witness what Gabe was doing?

Great! I'm turning into a pervert now. How can I even think about that?

My mind still can't recover from the happened the other night. My body was actually wishing for some love from Gabe again, but I won't push it. I do not want to spoil this little playful moment between us. If I would have to deal with this playful Gabe longer than usual...then so be it. I would like this version much more than that monster who usually possesses my prince.

It was delicious....and glorious!

Grabbing some of the loaves on top of the fridge, I pulled four pieces and flattened them in the middle. I poured the last of the egg mixture on it before popping them inside the toaster. Having done with the loaves, I brewed some coffee. While waiting for both to finish, I get back to the egg by mixing them, having a scrambled one instead of the usual omelet.

I grab a bowl and empty the contents of the pan into it. The toaster let out some 'ping' as I grab two plates, setting them on the table with two loaves on each. After placing the food on the table, I snatched two cups and poured the coffee into them, almost slipping into another dimension as I smelled it. Now, this is what I call perfect. All I need to do now is fetch

"Am I missing something?"

Nah. Forget it. I guess I won't need to fetch him after all.

"Nope. You are not. "I look down at my fingers, feeling nervous about what might have come out of this situation, for I never wanted to spoil it. "Please, have a seat...I made us some breakfast."

It must be a miracle that he complied without any further complaints from his smart mouth. He grabbed a fork and scooped some of the egg from the bowl before putting it inside his mouth. "Hmmm...I must say that I kinda miss all these." He smiled at me, and I had to stop myself from giggling like a teenager.

He is turning me into a JellO. He's messing up with my control system, and I have to hold tight to the edge of the table, averting my eyes from him. Goodness, I must accept the fact that he would be the death of me.

I sigh, grabbing my own fork to have a taste of my work. I must say that I did great, and to add to that, I didn't realize I was feeling very hungry, considering that I hadn't had dinner last night. Snatching some of the toast, I pulled the cup to my right and sniffed the coffee. I placed it on my lips and gulped, not realizing that it was the most insane thing for me to do so.

I coughed several times, startled to hear laughter coming from the man I called my husband. He looks at me again before another string of laughter bubbles itself out of his chest Smooth and deep chuckles vibrating from his lungs. "You probably haven't eaten in the last two decades you've lived hahaha!" With that, he slaps the top of the table as fat tears flow down his cheek.

I'm quite annoyed that he's back to his usual teasing self, but I must say that I'm quite amused at how he reacted. I thought I was going to hear those snappy remarks on which he'll call me a tosser or a nutter. But I guess the playful Gabe is still on the roll.

Grabbing my other toast, I nibbled at it, not caring about the numbing feeling inside my mouth. I shouldn't have sipped all that coffee like it was some freaking fruit shake. I wasn't thinking at all. I guess this man who was laughing at me was the reason behind my unattentive behavior. I am floating with happiness when he's near me.

The birds twittered from the window, and I looked at them, a smile gracing my lips. It was such a beautiful morning, a cloudless sky with a slight breeze filtering in the kitchen, the morning sun reflected by the open patio just outside, giving me a magnificent view of the forest. I am glad that Gabriel has chosen this location for a house; the lake nearby and the forest just behind it assure us of a peaceful abode that is free of any pollution coming from the city.

I watch as Gabriel sips his coffee, his eyes trained on me, making me blush. I turn my gaze back to my plate and bite my lip. I guess I'd have to prepare breakfast often, so he'll stay during the mornings. But the very reason why he was still here made me quite curious.

"Gabe?"

I almost slap myself right there, and then when his head turns unto me. His laughter was gone as his face contorted in a slight frown, "Hmm?"

I am almost afraid to continue, but my instincts told me that I have to face this headon, one way or another. "Gabe, why are you still here? Aren't you going to work?"

That came out pretty good, right? Or not. Based on the frown on his face, my answer should be the latter, but I'll wait for his reply before judging him. "Why? Should I take my leave now?"

"No," I shake my head at him and look down at the halfeaten toast on my plate. "Of course not!" I sigh. "I'm quite curious about the main reason why you are still here." I wrung my fingers together and said, "Are you going to stay for the day?" I bowed my head after saying that, finding the toast a little bit interesting as I tried to avoid his gaze, tracing it with my pointer finger. I am afraid to make eye contact with him because I am dying of embarrassment right now.

It took a couple of minutes before I heard the foot of the chair scrape the floor as he stood. I thought that he'd leave right without any further explanation, but what he did next almost gave me a heart attack. He leaned down at me and smiled, "I would like to make it up to you if you allow me. I would like to share the best of me with you while we have this year left of our marriage."

He leans closer and kisses me, pecking my lips afterward as he speaks, "I would like to see how we're going to continue and if it will even be worth it to give this a shot. I don't want to end all this without taking any risk." He leaned down once again and kissed me, making me taste the eggs tinged with coffee and him in my mouth.

I am surprised when he pulls me up on the chair and carries me to the counter. He's kissing me with so much passion that I have to keep hold of his hair for me to stay conscious and awake. The emotions bursting forth from my chest felt like it is suffocating me; I am gasping for breath.

This must be a dream! A very hellbent dream that I'm enjoying right now, though I am not sure that I am creative enough to dream about something as fascinating as this.

The kiss was heavenly and romantic, but humans need air. I have to curse both of us because we're not supernatural.

The magical moment ended with a peck on my lips; Gabriel gave me another kiss on the forehead before he lowered me down on the counter, "That's one hell of a kiss I haven't had for a while..." He blurted, a slight blush coloring his cheek.

I guess I have to say the same...and I'm hoping for more.

S A F I E

CHAPTER 6

ELLE

Flashback

"Gabriel," I whispered, a bit nervous about what his reaction might be. He opened his eyes and I can't help but smile as he wrinkles his nose, scratching his head. He blinks his eyes up at me, a question apparent on them.

"Happy birthday." I smiled and push the birthday cake in front of him.

"Elle" his eyebrows scrunched up as his eyes searched my face. "Why are you?"

His words made me smile and say a little 'no' because inside, I am burning so bright of irritation for this man. I mean, can't he just say ‘thank you’ to me? He's pushing my patience and making me wish that I did put some poison on the cake. I should try and do that next time.

I am so distracted with my own thoughts that I am surprised to hear him moan, "God. I haven't tasted a chocolate cake this good in my entire life" His eyes captured mine before he pulled me in and stuff some cake on my mouth, catching me off guard. The sweet malty taste made my tastebuds explode and I have little to no control of the moan I let out.

"Now we die together," Gabriel smiled at me with his teeth covered with the triple chocolate cake I baked. He looks so adorable and young, I wish he is always as playful as this. Bowing my head, I enjoyed the taste of chocolate inside my mouth, watching Gabriel as he finishes the whole cake, his cheeks tinted with the chocolate ganache.

Oh well, Mr West, you might not mean it but I am dying to make you love me back.

flashback ends

I am dazed as the memory faded in the back of my head. Staring at his glorious face, I snap myself back to the present and to the book I am reading. We sat by the parlour, him staring out to the forest while I am sat by the window, staring aimlessly at the pages laid on my lap. The morning sun is now high up in the sky, announcing midafternoon; the breeze has ceased, replaced by the ever prickly warm haze. I huff, shifting my feet so that I am leaning by the window pane.

"Elle, what would you like to do for the rest of the day rather than spending it with your book?" I stared at him for a while as he leaned across the open doors, his head tilted to the view of the forest, as though he isn't really talking to me. I raised an eyebrow at him and he turns, making me flustered once again "What? I thought you wanted to spend a day with me? I am giving you the chance." The smile that he gave me tug at my heartstrings that I almost choke on my next words.

Glancing down at the book on my lap, I said in a shaky voice, "How does the beach sound for you?"

"The beach?" He turned his full attention at me, his eyebrows raised. He moves closer to the window where I am sitting at, his stance inquisitive as he crosses his arms over his chest, flexing those biceps that made me want to drool. I cleared my throat and held his gaze instead, avoiding the temptation, bracing myself for the question that will surely come out of his smart mouth. "Why would you like to go to the beach?"

"For the same reason as other people have! It's in the middle of the summer now and I haven't even heard the crash of water on the shore. I want to bury myself in the sand, bathe in the sun and smell the humid air...I want to"

"Okay. Okay." He rolled his eyes and snorted, " You sound like a dying patient." He struts out of the door, leaving me speechless. I am tempted to throw the book at him but I wouldn't. This book is too precious for me; I wouldn't ruin it for a man such as him, he's not worth my first edition book. I should've snatched a pillow from the sofa.

Standing up from the window, I headed up the stairs and to my bedroom. I entered the closet, rummaging for something I can wear for the beach. I pulled a sundress and a piece of swimsuit, and marched inside the ensuite bathroom, removing my clothes. I am halfway through pulling the dress down on my chest area when Gabriel entered the bathroom. He stands there, like a deer caught in headlights, drowning in his own drool.

"Like what you see?" I am surprised when the words escaped my mouth. I barely had the time to cover my face in embarrassment when I heard his chuckle, giving me the sudden urge to hurl my slippers at his head as I hear his remark.

"Pssh, you barely had a C, love, which is why I am not that impress. 2You have the body of a teenage girl, so skinny!" He laughs again, strutting out of the bathroom and locking the door behind him.

That git! He doesn't know what he's talking about because he isn't a woman. Puffing my chest, I am surprised when I heard his voice from the other side of the room, "Hey, what's taking you so long? Have you been already swimming in the toilet?!"

"Git!" I hissed, pushing open the door and ending up face to face with the devil himself. "All that is coming out of your mouth is crap, Gabriel! If I could only"

I momentarily stopped my blubber as I watch him change into a pair of board shorts. "Like what you see?" He quoted back to me and I can't help but blush at that as I tried to go back inside the bathroom "Love, you already see all of this and yet you still act so shy." His gaze was so intense that I was caught in a trance.

My mind flashes back to his strong torso and his biceps as he grabs me, pulling me closer. I can almost feel his hands brushing the sides of my face, sliding down so that they settle on the nape of my neck. Still, his hands slide further down until he is holding my breast. His whispers tickle my ears as I succumb to the feeling of haven he has provided while I writhe in his arms, a prey to his love.

It was all too much and his intense gaze at me is making my breath hitch. I felt my cheeks growing hotter by the second. I cleared my throat, "Nope. You are wrong. I can't see clearly in the dark. Plus, there's nothing wrong with what I'm doing. I am your wife." I stated as a matter of fact. The blush is still adorning my cheeks and spreading to my neck, making me scratch my ear and hold his amused gaze.

"Everything is right with what you are doing, love." He pulled my hand and I cannot help but smirk at him.

Chapter 7

ONE DAY. It's only for today and I can't believe he has given me a day to spend with him.

"Now, are you happy?" His face was almost funny but the seriousness in his voice made me stop.

He sighs, scratching his forehead, "Nothing."

"Tell me, Gabriel." I urge for him but he just looks down at me. He sighs. I lay the baskets and blankets down on the sand and hear him, mutter, “Later."

"Fine." I stuck my tongue out and walked faster than him, leaving him with all the baskets and blanket. "Elle, help me with this!" His words were drowned as I rush unto the waves and shrieked.

God, I never felt this happy before ever since I have married the devil.

"Don't be such a party pooper, Gabriel!"

I headed back to the sea, feeling down because of what I said to Gabriel. I know it is wrong for me to be that bossy but I am only stating my feelings. It is unfair because he has promised to spend a day with me, to make it up to me. I am about to dip my toes in the water when someone rushes over and pushed me.

"Oomph!" I gurgled, my throat constricting as I unexpectedly swallowed the seawater. With my burning eyes, I struggled to free myself but it felt like someone is holding me down. I was about to scream for Gabriel to help me when I am pulled out of the water and heard the devil himself, laughing at me.

"What's funny?" I look around, trying to spot him as I blink my eyes, trying to get rid of the water. I crane my neck and bump my head with someone, "Ouch!" I push my damp hair away from my face and impatiently wipe the water off my eyes, seeing him there, his eyebrows furrowed as he massages the side of his head. "Gabriel? I thought you don't want to"

Gabriel stopped laughing and turned his attention at me, his face turning serious, "Elle that's "

•

It was almost midday when I decided to leave the shade and find something delicious to eat for I wanted to cheer myself up, my thoughts in a jumble as I walk, dazed. Gabriel was nowhere to find and I decided not to drag him on my food trip. I'm mighty fine without his obnoxious behaviour. I do not need him teasing me every step of the way for he has a sick idea about what is fun and what is hurtful.

"Look at her body! God, she looks like she wanted to have sex with me, mate!"

"That was quite embarrassing."

"I wouldn't dare to walk around like that."

"Can you even imagine how small her tits are?"

"Sheesh, she must be so desperate to find a husband to walk around like that!"

"I would be displeased if she was my daughter. What a whore!"

I am feeling so down, my confidence hitting the bottom as I tried to quicken my pace. I was about to turn when I felt his presence. Gabriel's arms provided warmth all over my body as he shielded me from the curious crowd. Muttering something on my ear that I cannot comprehend, he carried me back to the car and closed the doors while I sob in my hands, the two hotdog jumbo's now stained with my tears as I cry.

"I'm so sorry, Gabriel. I have ruined this day." I muttered in my hands, tears trickling in my cheeks as I tried to suppress a sob, "It is so embarrassing. They've seen me naked! Oh, what will they tell about me?" Gabriel takes the hotdog from me and settled them at the back seat along with the drinks. "The media will laugh at me if they saw that. This is bad, really bad." Staring back at me, he huffed. He turns the engine on, putting the car in reverse as he speeds away from the beach.

It was silence before the storm and I could feel it his heated glare on me when he is looking at me, his fist tightening around the steering wheel and his occasional huff. I know that he's angry at me. He is ashamed of me.

"I won't allow this day to end like this, Elle." he pulls my chin up as he made me look at him, "Tell me, how does ice cream, pizza and Walle sound for you?"

“Walle?”

S A F I E

CHAPTER 8

ELLE

I open one of my eyes, the dizziness overwhelming me that I have to slowly rise from the bed and stagger towards the bathroom, the room spinning around me. It was the break of the dawn; too early for me to wake during a weekend.

I rested my hands on the walls as I struggled against it, trying to reach the toilet bowl before I barfed up. Not being able to withstand, I collapse on the floor and have managed to hold the toilet bowl tighter before my face hovers on it, inches away from the water as I empty my insides. I hug it closer to my chest, heaving at it without having anything to let go.

I've been like this for the past week and was getting weaker by the days passing. Gabe never had the chance to notice this because he's been away for Italy for almost a month now. I do not know the exact date of his return. Maybe next week or tomorrow morning? Tonight?

It was pointless to bug him about it because he wanted to surprise me. I rolled my eyes at that, pushing myself away from the bowl and leaning my back against the tub.

What am I going to tell him once he arrives and see me like this like a zombie that has just resurrected?

I believe that he will be enraged by my appearance once he comes back. I have lost weight because I couldn't keep my food in. I wanted to go and have myself checked in the hospital though I felt lazy, sometimes I refused to leave the room and stay in bed, cuddled up in sheets and reading to myself.

What should I tell Gabriel once he goes back? That I've got the worst stomach flu of the history a bug or something I've got because of eating too much ice cream? Or wait...

I momentarily stopped, my thoughts and ideas dissolving as I crawl my way back inside our room. I rummaged the bedside table and open the lock on my phone as I see the red sign blinking in my notification quite confirm the assumptions I am having. I think I know why I am having this sickness for it's not considered as to how it appeared to be.

I should've got my period last month, and I have never been late in my whole life. This is it, what I have always wanted with Gabriel. I believe that my answers are finally answered. I finally have a chance. With desperation in my eyes, I hoist myself up, struggling to keep my balance as I stare at the girl reflected in the window.

"I'm going to take the test."

•

I smiled at the three pink positive signs staring at me.

I'm pregnant!

I danced around the bathroom and giggled some more. Who knows that I will be a mom after a few months? Have a little Elle or maybe little Gabe running around here while I busied myself looking after her or him, or them? I smiled, a wild look in my face that does not deem well with how thin I've become for the past few weeks.

Only 7 out of 10 women who have this result is as happy as me. One of them is underage, or have three kids already and doesn't want an additional problem or the other, which is a single woman who has a one night stand.

Like I care. I'm going to have what I wanted for so long. It's right in front of me now. Literally.

Out of habit, I begin to bite my nails as I think of the consequences of this. I'm a little bit nervous about what is going to happen to me and the baby when the contract is done but I forced myself to just shut it out and relax. I don't want stress clawing at my very face and make the baby feel worst. I can handle this.

I put the three pregnancy test in my bag and smiled. This will be the second happiest day of my life. The first one is when I married the love of my life which, I'm not sure if he will be happy with this news but I want the baby. Yet, if he doesn't accept my baby and chose to react negatively towards my news, then I will protect my baby from him even if it is the last thing I will do.

I won't let him do anything to this little bean.

If I need not tell him until I'm showing, then fine. I'll do everything in my power to keep my baby safe. Even if it requires me to leave the love of my life just so this little bean would live happily, I will choose that rather than ending the life that has not even started in this world.

The thought of having a life inside of me is clearly a joyful moment. Especially that it's from Gabriel and me. I really need to be careful about everything that I do, and I won't have any coffee anytime soon. No stress and more rest, and lastly, I really want to have some pistachios, salted caramel kisses and vanilla Ice cream right now.

Making my decision, I snatch my purse and decided to meet up with someone I haven't seen for a long time.

Chapter 9

"What? You're pregnant? I'm gonna be an aunt!" The female version of my husband screamed, slapping my face playfully before she hugs me back. It was almost painful for me to stare at Neola the same way as she does to me. It's hard for me to see the same reflection of my husband on her face and smile.

I just miss him too much.

It has been a month since I saw him and she just looks a lot like him. I wonder will our child possess the same blue eyes as them or inherit my vivid green eyes that I am so in love with. Neola's curly hair is slightly bushy than that of Gabriel's a trait of their Italian descent in their mother side, the Mancini's, which he rarely even talks about considering that Gabriel's mother has died when they are still kids.

I was suddenly distracted out of my thoughts when Neola piped in, "But you clearly know that my brother will be shocked to know this...it is unexpected." She smirks at me, her eyes filled with amusement, "What did you do to make my dear old brother succumb to your temptation, mistress?" she pointed an accusing finger at me and giggled.

I slap her finger and pouted, "Neola! I know that all he's going to say to me is N.O. and I won't have any say on it but it is done. The baby is here and he has to deal with it one way or another. This is a blessing; this little bean is very dear to me and I won't let Gabriel do anything to harm my baby!" My chest tightens and I sobbed, bursting into tears as I shoved a spoonful of ice cream into my mouth, muffling my cries.

Damn, hormones.

Neola gave me a look and wipe my tears with the Kleenex on her hand, "Shh, slow down. No stress for the little bean, right?" I glared at her as I shoved another spoonful inside my mouth, "Yet you are the one who is stressing me, Neola." She bites her lip and I smiled at that. Shoving another spoonful in my mouth, I moan at the sweetsmelling salted caramel kisses melting on my tongue.

"What are you going to do when he finds out about this?" She asked after I finish my ice cream.

I looked at her and smiled, "Nothing, I'll let it be. I won't do anything. I'm pretty sure that once he sees the photos of this little bean, he will accept it all. Gabriel is not that heartless." Neola gave me a confused look, frowning at the tub of ice cream in front of her.

"But you know my brother, Elle. He always gets what he wanted all of his demands are always followed. He has plans for both of you. He doesn't, never in a million years, would want a kid, right? He has made it clear. You know he has"

"I know that but, his reasons are lame! I just don't understand him..." I shoved another spoonful and watch her shoved her own share of the ice cream on her mouth.

Because he's drunk and out of his mind, Neo, and that I partly lied to him. No. I won't tell her that.

"Alright. It just....happened." I smiled at her as she grinned at me.

"That's it?"

I nodded and said. "You don't want to hear the details, right?"

"I don't like strawberry at this moment...especially one on my milkshake," I stood up from my seat and headed in the bathroom to throw up.

•

I look down on my watch and waited some more.

He said he's gonna meet me up for dinner. He informed me that he will arrive late this evening instead of going back tomorrow morning. He said it'll take him only an hour before he arrives but why is it that he's not here yet?

It's almost midnight!

And the fact that I prepared his favourite dish even if it is hard to do makes me irritated at him. Pissed even. It made me so infuriated at him that I have this sudden urge to hurl the pan unto him as soon as he arrives. I tap my foot impatiently and glared at the time that is reflected at the grandfather clock.

I've gone almost everywhere today. From the café, then to the doctor before going to the store to buy the necessary ingredients I needed. I'm very thankful that Neola is there to be my company and driver since Taylor was with Gabriel, doing godknowswhat. She accompanied me to the hospital to have my very first checkup seeing as Gabriel wasn't with me

Doctor Eric told me that I'm 5 weeks pregnant. I'm a bit hesitant at first when he examined me because of the main reason that he's a guy. Though he assured me that he was actually gay. I almost laugh at how ridiculous I act, gawking when he asked me to strip and open up as he uses the wand to probe at 'my area'. I'm very thankful that he's my doctor and that he is gay because I will be damned if Gabriel finds out that my OB was a guy.

I also meet VictoI mean Doctor Cherry, his assistant/ substitute doctor for his patients in case he wasn't there. She looks awfully familiar to me that I am feeling a bit dodgy at her, remembering that Victoria Lint who made my life hell before and after I have married Gabriel.

She has the same facial features as that of Victoria, Gabe's exgirlfriend except that Cherry is blonde while Victoria was brunette. The features end with that because they have no traits in common like Cherry's attitude is kind, nice and loving; nothing like those of that scandalous bitch, whom I fought with before I and Gabriel got married. She's so scanty and ridiculous that even though it has been a year I can't forget about her freak face and her foul mouth which I long to wash with soap.

Victoria's face still irks me making me want to find her and pull her head off, screaming bloody murder. Why does Cherry have to look like someone I hated for the rest of eternity? I'm pretty sure that God can choose from a lot of combinations so why do they have to look a lot like each other? And the fact that Cherry is so nice to me that she already win my heart makes it more infuriating. She even assured me that I am her favourite patient and that she will take care of me and my baby.

After giving me my prenatal vitamins, Eric asked me to come back next month to check on this little bean. He also gave me his number, telling me that I'm free to consult him anytime, or asked him about the different stages of pregnancy. He also told me that throwing up or morning sickness is just normal, along with the sudden cravings that are so bizarre, not fathomable by anyone but the baby inside.

After my checkup, Neola and I went to the nearest grocery store to buy the ingredients for the Chicken Alfredo which is Gabriel's favourite. I am looking forward to this dinner because I haven't seen him for weeks and I wanted to tell him about the baby, explaining to him that he will be the best father because I will be next to him, figuring parenthood together.

Darn it! I really miss him.

I can't help the tears as they fall down on my cheek. Can't he see that I long for his presence? Don't he miss me too? He's focused on making our relationship work from the moment he stayed with me all day after our anniversary. He's shown me that he wanted me, that he can still be human, that I can be loved by him but, as he leaves for Italy, I know it will change again.

I'm tired and hungry. I think I cannot wait some more for the smell of Chicken Alfredo is making me drool like I haven't eaten from the past twentyfive years of my existence. I have to take a bite out of it at least

After finishing a plate full of pasta, I keep the leftovers in the fridge so if he ever arrives later at dawn and is hungry, he can feed his foul mouth. I silently wash my plate since we've got no household help for I like to do things on my own. As I wipe the plate, I thought about the possibility of him having an affair.

Maybe, that is possible.

He's always been known to have so many mistresses, models here and there. It is only when his father have arranged a marriage for the two of us when he settled down. I always have doubts but he always tried to push it off my mind and gave me a satisfying relationship. Satisfying to the extent of him putting a distance between us and shutting himself in his office while letting me do what I want to do.

He told me that he will change but it seems like it's all a lie. And now, with the business running in his hand again, he's having nights out where he stayed up late, never giving me the chance to spend time with him. Even on weekends he always has something to do a sorry excuse for him to not go home.

I wish I didn't hold unto his empty promises.

I stripped off my clothes and headed inside the bathroom. I remember that night the night when he came home after the party, drunk out of his mind. I lured him in and let him kiss me. I let him drive me crazy with lust for the desperation in my heart is winning and unexpectedly he reacted to it the same way as I did. He completely blew my head off and took my heart with him.

I have always wanted a kid right from the moment we married for the baby is the only thing that will make me happy when he's away a substitute for his very presence. This little snot will look just like him and I'm very sure of that considering that I am missing the devil more and more.

I caress my tummy and smiled, "Hello there, little Bean. I'm your mommy. I love you, always remember that..." I gaze at my reflection in the mirror and smiled.

Who knows I can be pregnant without him knowing it?

Well, not for long at least.