Chapter 99
RAVEL
PRESENT TIME
I appreciate Hazel’s presence here in New York, yet I harbor a profound aversion for the circumstances that brought her to this place. It has now been three long and arduous weeks since Eleanor fell into a deep, ominous coma. In the somber confines of the hospital, the medical professionals offer their reassurances, assuring us that all will eventually be well. They emphasize that her prolonged unconsciousness is not a harbinger of despair.
Optimism is the fragile lifeline we cling to during these trying times, for there exists no other recourse. Hazel has essentially taken up residence in the hospital, steadfastly remaining by Elenor’s side until Anne arrives. Only when Anne arrives in the evening does Hazel consider bringing her day to a close.
As the night unfurled, mirroring countless others, I steered her car towards her home. In the dimly lit parking lot, I silenced the engine and turned my gaze towards Hazel, drawing her full attention to me. “There’s been something weighing on my mind all day,” I confided, my words laced with concern. “Please don’t misunderstand me, but I can’t help but your business. You’ve been here for three weeks now, hasn’t it had an impact on your work?”
worry about
Hazel responded with a nonchalant shrug, then gently shook her head. “It’s moments like these that make us appreciate technology,” she remarked, her smile radiant. “I’ve managed to keep my business afloat from here, and considering the cancellation of the exhibition, there hasn’t been an overwhelming workload to contend with, anyways.”
My brow furrowed in concern. “You canceled the exhibition?” Hazel nodded in affirmation, and a pang of sympathy coursed through me. “I’m genuinely sorry that I couldn’t be of any assistance.” However, I couldn’t help but think about the repercussions Warren and the others would face; they were certainly going to hear from me.
Hazel’s response was resolute. “I’d rather bear the legal fees than contend with a potential exhibition failure,” she whispered, her voice unwavering. “I’m choosing to view this as one of the risks inherent in the world of business management.”
I stared at her intently, admiration swelling within me for her pragmatic outlook. “I’m immensely proud of you, Hazel,” I murmured, my heart swelling with pride. “You’ve transformed into a successful businesswoman with an exceptional mindset. I couldn’t recall feeling prouder of anyone. Leaning in, I gently cupped her jaw. “You promised you’d handle this on your own, and you’ve done just that.”
A radiant smile graced Hazel’s face. “I know, right?”
“Come closer,” I whispered softly, drawing her into a warm embrace. Her hands found their place around my neek, and T held her close, our whispers shared in this intimate moment. “If it ever becomes too overwhelming for you to handle, don’t hesitate to lean on me,” I murmured, my voice filled with sincerity. “I know you’re more than capable, but I want to be there for you.”
“I will,” she whispered in response, her voice a delicate promise. “Just don’t disappear when I start bringing all my problems to your doorstep.”

I chuckled affectionately. “Never,” I assured her. Pulling back slightly, I cupped her cheek tenderly. “May I kiss you?” I inquired, seeking permission. Her parted lips and audible breath seemed to grant the answer I sought. Without further hesitation, I leaned in and gently pressed my lips to hers, sealing our connection with a sweet, affectionate kiss.
In that suspended moment, I remained
perfectly still, granting her space and time to
decide how to proceed. Her silence spoke
volumes, and as she didn’t resist, I initiated a
gentle movement of my lips, savoring the
exquisite taste of her mouth. The elation that
surged through me was indescribable when
she met my kiss with a fervent response, her
lips dancing in beautiful synchrony with mine.
My hand, substantial and warm, cradled her
cheek, angling her head to perfection as our
kiss deepened. Tracing my finger slowly along
her neck, I felt the rapid tempo of her pulse
beneath my touch, a testament to the intensity
of our connection.
Encouraging her to part her lips, I tugged
gently at her lower lip, inviting her to open hen she did, my tongue fought with hers, seeking dominance as we licked the corners of our mouth.
After what seemed like an eternity yet passed in the blink of an eye, Hazel gently withdrew. Her breath still ragged, she leaned in, resting her forehead against mine. “Ravel,” she whispered, her voice barely audible, “what are we doing here? Why am I in this car, sharing a kiss with a man who has a woman waiting for him back home?” She reluctantly pulled back.
I licked my lips, savoring the lingering taste of her presence. My gaze locked onto Hazel’s, and in that poignant moment, I reached a resolute decision. “Tonight,” I declared, “I’m going to end things with her.”
Hazel couldn’t help but roll her eyes, a hint of skepticism in her expression. “And why is that?” she retorted, a teasing tone tainting her words. “Is it because you want to keep indulging in these stolen moments without the weight of guilt?”
I met her gaze with unwavering sincerity. “No,” I confessed, my voice carrying the weight of my intentions. “It’s because I’ve chosen to deal with the situation without risking losing you.” Memories of almost losing her to David haunted me, and I had no desire to relive that heartache.
Her frown deepened as she probed further, her eyes searching mine. “What situation?” she pressed, her curiosity apparent.
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