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.

at the time, but for the first time ever, she had been the one to let go of Dominic's hand. Up until a moment ago, it had always been him

...

jolted Bella awake. She reluctantly opened her eyes, still enveloped in

that afternoon. It was a well-paying gig, one of the most lucrative side jobs she could find. She couldn't afford to miss it. After

her usual composure when she noticed that Dominic

on eggshells around him, careful not to provoke his irritation. But honestly, had

first time going to this particular job. After a half-hour car ride, she arrived

rang the bell. Soon, a woman in her 40s opened the door. "You

she would need to

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?" Yvonne's rude comments caught Bella off guard. She glanced at her own slender fingers and replied humbly, "I believe these 'claws' are up to the task." Yvonne

the piano and tested the keys. The instrument was in excellent condition,

anything too complicated, so she played a simple, improvised

from the teacher Yvonne's brother chose. I'll leave her in your hands now. I have some other matters to attend to." Finally, Yvonne softened. "Ms. Jones, what

It's an improvised piece, just... the burst of emotion I feel