A Journey from Bitterness to Truth

Chapter 65

Adrian stroked his chin, an amused twinkle in his eye. “I do give off that creepy vibe

at times.”

Matilda sighed, her voice laced with a hint of apology. “My son’s still young; he can be a bit impulsive with his words. I just wanted to say sorry for that.”

Adrian chuckled, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. “No need for apologies. It would’ve been pretty weird if I’d come off all chummy right out of the gate.”

Matilda’s smile faded a touch as she got straight to the point. “Look, Mr. Simpson, what do you need from me, really?”

“Do you believe me if I say I’m here for your work?” Adrian played coy for a moment, then admitted, “Alright, you got me. I don’t believe it, either. I’m interested in you, Matilda, because you’re, well, easy on the eyes and quite the looker.”

Matilda’s face registered shock. “What exactly are you implying?”

impulse and get over it pretty quick. I’m looking to

for you

a strained smile. “Are you

“There’s the word I was looking for. Yes, that’s

A one–night stand.

passion and impulse, Mr. Simpson. But to

first for me.”

really need all that ‘true love‘ or ‘deep affection.‘ That stuff is

a long pause, she spoke softly, “Perhaps you’re right; maybe deep affection is just masochism.”

gotten her. Five years in prison, no sunlight, trapped in purgatory, over and

12:39

her finger, the pain and hatred etched deep into her soul. The price

don’t want to indulge myself and fall into desire. It’s no different from succumbing to deep love. So, I’m afraid I’m