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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13:42 Pie, 11 Feb

The Trauma

-Gabriel Storm

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his thoughtfulness. Sitting 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 and more.

all I wanted right now. The tenderness he had shown me last night only made me want

a pancake, my thoughts drifted to what it 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 to want him, but

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

I had made up my mind to leave behind the

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

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

replied, managing a soft

as he brushed a thumb across my cheek. “I want to

2/

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11 Feb Mō ·

The Trauma

appointment with a therapist… she’s

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 well

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

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

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

on the phone in French, and once the call ended, his

I asked softly.

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,

swallowed, my mind spinning 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 you got there in time to save me. That’s

dark with intensity. “I promise you, Clairessa, I’ll find him. And when I do, I’ll make

protectiveness that both touched and concerned

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The Trauma Behind

to feel responsible for my pain. “Mr. Storm,” I began, choosing my words carefully, “I’ve decided

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

smiled briefly, trying to convey the peace 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

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