Chapter 17: Leaving The Trauma Behind

Clairessa’s POV

Chapter 17. Leaving The Trauma Behind

70%

‘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

<

1A

13:42 Pie, 11 Feb

The Trauma Behind

-Gabriel Storm

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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

its sweetness as I thought of Gabriel. Despite everything, he was all I wanted right

rid me

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. Gabriel was a major part of that plan, whether

packed and ready by the door. I had made up my mind to leave behind the

we hadn’t secured an investor for my app, I knew I couldn’t give up hope just yet.

and walked in. “How do you feel?” he asked, his eyes filled with the same tenderness I’d seen last night.

replied, managing

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

2/

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11 Feb Mō ·

17: Leaving The Trauma Behind

with a therapist…

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

sensing my apprehension. “Whenever you’re ready, just let me know.” He gave me a reassuring smile

his, our eyes locking briefly. “You don’t have to.”

get the rest.” He took the luggage and walked toward

and once the

happened?” I asked

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 did

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

find him. And when I do, I’ll

voice, a protectiveness that both touched

3/

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11 Feb

Leaving The

pain. “Mr. Storm,” I began, choosing my words carefully, “I’ve decided to leave the horrifying experience of that night back at the

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

found within myself. “I don’t forgive that psycho as a favor to him,” I explained. “I do it for myself. If I truly want

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