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

Leaving The Trauma Behind

-Gabriel Storm

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saw the array of food laid out on the

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

desire, it would finally rid me of the cravings I felt whenever he was near. I didn’t want to want him,

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

dressed in 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

my app, I knew I couldn’t give up hope just yet. I had to focus on

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

replied, managing a

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

2/

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11 Feb Mō ·

17: Leaving The Trauma Behind

appointment with a therapist… she’s

defensively. The thought of sharing intimate details about myself with someone else didn’t sit well with me. I wasn’t ready.

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

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

luggage and walked toward the door. I glanced

the call ended, his expression turned into a

I

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

to remain calm. “It’s alright,” I said quietly, resting my hand on his arm. “I’m just grateful you got there in time to save me. That’s what matters

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

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

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e, 11

The Trauma Behind

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 back at the hotel. It’s

mixed with admiration in his eyes. “How can you be so forgiving and calm after everything?” he asked, his voice low as if

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

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