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

The Trauma

-Gabriel Storm

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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,

its sweetness as I thought of Gabriel. Despite everything, he was all I wanted right now. The tenderness he had shown me last night

would be like to spend just one night with 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

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

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

hope just yet. I had to focus on the future, and I couldn’t do that by dwelling on yesterday’s

pushed open the door and walked in. “How do you feel?” he asked, his

replied, managing a soft

gentle as he brushed a thumb across my cheek.

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11 Feb Mō ·

The

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

The thought of sharing intimate details

let me know.” He gave me a reassuring smile before

hand over his, our eyes locking

took the luggage and walked toward

the call ended, his expression turned into a tense

happened?” I asked softly.

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

calm. “It’s alright,” I said quietly, resting my

Clairessa, I’ll find him. And when I do, I’ll make him pay for

a protectiveness that both touched and concerned me.

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11

Leaving The

the burden of 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 the horrifying experience of that night

confusion mixed with admiration in his eyes. “How can you be so forgiving and calm after

that psycho as a favor to him,” I explained. “I do it for myself. If I truly

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