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

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1A

13:42 Pie, 11 Feb

17: Leaving The Trauma

-Gabriel Storm

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up, I looked over at the living area and saw the array of food laid out on the table. It was as if he’d ordered the entire menu–pancakes, strawberries, grapes, eggs, hot dogs… everything I could possibly want

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

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, how it burned for

was the plan for my revenge. I hadn’t forgotten that. Adrian had hurt me deeply, and all I wanted was to hurt him right back.

was dressed in a sunflower dress, my suitcase packed and ready by the door. I had made up my mind to leave

my app, I knew I couldn’t give up hope just yet.

do you feel?” he asked, his eyes filled with the same tenderness

managing

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

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Feb Mō ·

Leaving The Trauma

an appointment with a therapist…

said, a bit defensively. The thought of sharing intimate details about myself with someone else didn’t sit well with

let me know.” He gave me a reassuring smile before reaching for my hand luggage on the bed.

our eyes locking

tone firm but kind. “The butler will get the rest.” He took the luggage

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

I asked softly.

running a hand through 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 could see the strain on his face. He was trying to keep it together, but the news clearly affected him, as it

quietly, resting my hand on his arm. “I’m

when I do, I’ll make him pay for what he

fierceness in his voice, a protectiveness that both

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11 Feb M

The

I didn’t want him to feel responsible for my pain. “Mr. Storm,” I began, choosing my words carefully, “I’ve

his eyes. “How can you be so forgiving and calm after everything?”

favor to him,” I explained. “I do it for myself. If I truly want to move on, then I have

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