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

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1A

13:42 Pie, 11 Feb

17: Leaving The

-Gabriel Storm

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by his thoughtfulness. Sitting up, I looked over at the living area and saw the array of food laid out on the table. It

Gabriel. Despite everything, he was all I wanted right now. The tenderness he had shown me last night only made me want him

him. Maybe if I gave 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 body reacted to him,

had hurt me deeply, and all I wanted was to hurt him right back. Gabriel was a major part of that plan, whether he knew

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 room, no matter how

secured an investor for my app, I knew I couldn’t give up hope just yet. I had to focus on the future, and

the door and walked in. “How do you feel?” he asked, his eyes filled with the

I replied, managing a

voice gentle as he brushed a thumb across my

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11 Feb Mō

The

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

but I don’t think I need one,” I said, a bit defensively. The thought of sharing intimate

calmly, sensing my apprehension. “Whenever you’re ready, just let me know.” He

over his, our eyes locking

but kind. “The butler will get the rest.” He took the luggage and walked toward the door. I glanced around the room

French, and once the call ended, his expression turned

happened?” I

his hair. “Marco and his men escaped last night, just before the cops arrived,” he said, his voice tight with frustration. His jaw clenched, and

I forced myself to remain calm. “It’s alright,” I said quietly, resting

“I promise you, Clairessa, I’ll find him. And when I do, I’ll make him pay for what he tried

protectiveness that both touched and

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e, 11 Feb M

The Trauma Behind

carefully, “I’ve decided to leave the horrifying experience of that night back at the hotel. It’s too much trauma to take with

in his eyes. “How can you be so forgiving and calm after everything?” he asked, his voice low as if he couldn’t comprehend how I could move forward

that psycho as a favor to him,” I explained. “I do it for myself. If I truly want to move on, then I have to let go

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