Falling For My Ex's Dad by Oma Green

Chapter 14: The Night It All Goes Down

*Tonight’s dinner was in a more intimate part of the hotel, different from last night. Gabriel had told me earlier it was Marco’s idea, as he planned to reveal his decision to everyone. I sat at the table, feeling slightly anxious, wondering what Marco’s decision would be. I glanced around, noticing that everyone was chatting and smiling. Gabriel sat beside me, his quiet, imposing presence hovering over me even amid the conversation. On my other side, Marco sat closer than I would have liked.

I tried to stay quiet, letting the men talk as I kept a soft smile on my face, staring down at my plate.

As I focused on my meal, I felt something that made my skin crawl–Marco’s hand slid across the table, his fingers lightly brushing mine. I froze, the touch sending a shiver of discomfort through me. Forcing a smile, though it felt more like a grimace, I tried to maintain composure.

“You look so beautiful tonight,” Marco whispered, leaning in closer. “I can hardly resist your

charm.”

“Thanks,” I replied, my voice shaky as I pulled my hand away slightly, trying to put some distance between us. Leaning into my chair, I attempted to relax, but the discomfort lingered.

I was about to sip my wine when I felt another presence close to my ear. Gabriel’s voice, low and commanding, sent a chill down my spine. “We need to talk. Now.”

There was no mistaking the authority in his tone. He didn’t wait for a response, standing up abruptly. “Everyone, please excuse us,” he announced to the table, grabbing my hand and pulling me away before I could protest. His grip was firm, and I struggled to keep up with his quick pace.

He led me out onto the balcony overlooking the pool, the cool night air hitting my skin. The breeze awakened my senses as I searched Gabriel’s face for answers. “What’s going on, Mr. Storm?” I asked, feeling

Chapter 14: The Night It All Goes Down

confused.

His gaze was furious. “I need you to stop flirting with Marco,” he stated, the accusation catching me off guard.

“What?” I responded, baffled by his remark. I couldn’t believe what he was accusing me of. “Mr. Storm, you made this accusation yesterday, and I stayed quiet. But now… now I find your accusations insulting, and I demand an apology.”

“An apology?” he scoffed, his expression hardening. “Stop the act, Clairessa. I’ve seen the way he’s been looking at you all night, and you two have been too chatty for comfort.”

an explanation about what Mr. Marco and I were whispering

the railing of the balcony. My heart raced, and I nearly lost my balance, but his hands caught me, firm and possessive. The contact sent an electric shock through my body, and I had to steel myself against the

let me go,” I demanded, my voice stern

but his intense gaze never left mine. “You have no idea the kind of man Marco is. He’s

the type of man I want?” I shot back,

care what type of man you’re interested in. But I know Marco isn’t right for you. He’s a notorious womanizer and dangerous. And I hate

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trailed off, clearly struggling with his emotions. His breathing quickened as he leaned closer, the

Marco keeps staring at me,” I retorted, my voice cracking slightly. “I don’t like his

attention either.”

searched my eyes, as if trying to decide if I was telling the truth. “I don’t know what game you’re playing, but-” His words were abruptly cut off by Rodger’s voice calling from inside.

here. Marco has an announcement.”

interrupted, and we pulled away from each other. I felt flustered, my heart still racing from the closeness. Straightening my dress, I followed Gabriel back

composure.

but other times, like earlier, he

drawing the attention of the entire

he declared, his tone filled with excitement as the room

on mine with a possessive gleam. “Clairessa, my money’s on

my heart swelling with joy despite the unease. We had an investor ready to partner with Storm Innovations. It was all finally happening, just as I had hoped. I glanced at

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14: The Night It

offered me

<2713#

burst through me, momentarily pushing away the unease from earlier. Everything else faded, replaced by the excitement of

me a quick look, saying he’d be back. I managed a faint smile, trying to focus on the pianist’s