Crushed Affections (Dominic and Bella)

Chapter 5 Her Heart Would Skip a Beat

Bella slowly began to regain her senses, opening her eyes to meet the deep gaze of the man before her. She had thought he would be asleep at this hour.

The morning light shone through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting dappled shadows across the room. The soft golden glow landed perfectly on Dominic, lending a gentle warmth to his usually stern features. He looked so captivating that she couldn't look away. Bella was completely entranced. Whether she was five years old or nearly 25, every time she looked at him, her heart would skip a beat.

"Aren't you a cardiologist? What were you doing in the gynecology department?"

Dominic suddenly changed the topic, asking about the day before. Why had she been in the gynecology department with Mandy?

Bella was a bit confused. Clearly, her exhausted mind couldn't keep up with his.

Suddenly, darkness crept into her vision. Panicking, she broke free from Dominic's grip and grabbed onto the staircase railing. "Let's talk later. I'm too tired and need to rest."

Without waiting to see his expression turn angry, she numbly made her way back to her room.

been the one to let go of Dominic's hand. Up until a moment ago, it had always been

...

her alarm jolted Bella awake. She reluctantly opened her eyes,

piano lesson to teach that afternoon. It was a well-paying gig, one of

cautious in her every movement, only regaining her

always walking on eggshells around him, careful not to provoke his irritation. But honestly, had there ever been a single day, or even a moment, when he

was her first time going to this particular job. After a half-hour car ride, she arrived at an upscale neighborhood. The residents here were

Soon, a woman in her 40s opened

Bella could hear the faint, irregular sounds of piano playing. It was clear the student was a beginner. It seemed she would need to be patient. When she finally met her student,

piano was my mother's. It's not only expensive but also of great sentimental value. Do you really think you're qualified to touch it with those claws of yours?"

tested the keys. The instrument was in

so she played a

leave her in your hands now.

slightly, "It doesn't have a name. It's an improvised piece, just... the burst of