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

17: Leaving The Trauma

-Gabriel Storm

70%

living area and saw the array of food laid out on the table. It was as if he’d ordered

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

with him. Maybe if I gave in to this desire, it would finally rid me of the cravings I felt whenever he was

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

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

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

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

I replied, managing a soft

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

2/

|||

O

<

Feb

17: Leaving The Trauma Behind

with a therapist…

Mr. 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 sit

just let me know.” He

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

He took the luggage and walked toward the door. I glanced around the room quickly, making sure I

Gabriel spoke on the phone in French, and once the call ended,

I asked softly.

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

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

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

his voice, a protectiveness that both touched and concerned me. I

3/

111

e, 11 Feb M

17: Leaving The

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

“How can you be so forgiving and calm after

I had 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 to move on, then I have to let go of the pain from yesterday. Carrying it with me will only keep me chained to the

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255