Chapter 17: Leaving The Trauma Behind

Clairessa’s POV

Chapter 17. Leaving The Trauma Behind

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‘I woke up, my arms instinctively reaching out for Gabriel, but the side of the bed where he slept was empty. A wave of disappointment hit me as I realized he was gone. The memories of last night started flooding back, and I tried to push away the thoughts of that horrible man, Marco. The fear and pain he had inflicted still lingered in my mind.

If Gabriel hadn’t arrived in time, who knows what Marco might have done? I shuddered at the thought but quickly pushed it away.

It felt like all my hopes were crashing before they even began. I couldn’t help but feel sad, knowing today was the last day of the trip, and we still hadn’t secured an investor. But I didn’t want to dwell on the negatives.

I needed to focus on the fact that I was safe. And it was all thanks to Gabriel. He had rescued and

defended me in a way no one ever had.

There was a tenderness in him I hadn’t seen before. His warmth, his strength–that was what I wanted to

remember.

With Gabriel’s arms around me, I had slept like a baby. It was the first real rest I’d had in what felt like forever. My fingers softly caressed the spot where Gabriel had lain, inhaling the musky scent he left behind.

That’s when I noticed the note on the pillow beside me. I picked it up and read it. His handwriting was bold and somewhat beautiful… it was so him.

I hope you were able to sleep well. I’m sorry I had to leave, but breakfast is served. Get some rest–we’ll be leaving soon.

O

C

Ν

O

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1A

13:42 Pie, 11 Feb

Leaving The Trauma Behind

-Gabriel Storm

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of food laid out on the table. It was as if he’d ordered the

into my mouth, savoring its sweetness as I thought of Gabriel. Despite everything, he was all

in to this desire, it would finally rid me of the cravings I felt whenever he was near. I didn’t want to want him, but I couldn’t help how my

had hurt me deeply, and all I wanted was to hurt him right back. Gabriel was a

a sunflower dress, my suitcase packed and ready by the door. I had made up my mind to leave behind the trauma of what happened with Marco in this

app, I knew I couldn’t give up hope just yet. I had to focus on

he asked, his eyes filled with the same

I replied, managing a soft

his voice gentle as he brushed a thumb across my cheek. “I

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Leaving The Trauma

an appointment with a therapist… she’s really good.”

Storm, but I don’t think I need one,” I said, a bit defensively. The thought of sharing intimate details about myself with someone else didn’t

me know.” He gave me a reassuring smile before reaching for my

our eyes locking briefly. “You don’t have

butler will get the rest.” He took the luggage and walked toward the door. I glanced around the room quickly, making

in French, and once the call ended, his expression turned into

happened?” I

said, his voice tight with frustration. His jaw clenched, and I could see the strain on his face. He was trying to keep it together, but the news clearly affected him, as

my mind spinning for a moment, but I forced myself to remain calm. “It’s alright,” I said quietly, resting my hand on his arm. “I’m just grateful you got there in time to save me.

him. And when I do, I’ll make him pay for what he tried to do

in his voice, a protectiveness that both touched and

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Leaving The

my vengeance on his shoulders. I didn’t want him to feel responsible for my pain. “Mr. Storm,” I began, choosing my words carefully, “I’ve decided to leave

confusion mixed with admiration in his eyes. “How can you be so forgiving and calm after everything?” he asked, his voice low

a favor to him,” I explained. “I do it for myself. If I truly want to move on, then I have to let go of the pain from yesterday. Carrying it with

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