Master of his heart (Brielle and Max)

Chapter 444

Andrew couldn’t fathom how someone like Max, who he thought was oblivious to matters of the heart, could possess such insight. It was true–Max wasn’t well–versed in emotions, but he had eyes that saw clearer than most.

Society had always been harsh on women, especially within the elite echelons, where it seemed a woman’s role was to fawn over men.

Within such circles, infidelity in married men was so commonplace it barely raised eyebrows. Elders would advise the women to be patient, assuring them that the wandering husbands would return home once the novelty wore off. A wife who couldn’t accept such behavior was labeled as lacking understanding.

Flip the script, however, and a woman who strayed was considered unforgivable, a stain on male pride. Her husband wouldn’t hesitate to kick her to the curb and find another.

For Max, when it came to Brielle, there were no such calculations of what should be or questions of dignity. The array of emotions Brielle stirred in him was novel, yet not unwelcome. She made him feel enriched in ways he hadn’t known, but also more wanting.

Max was high above everyone else, but he never demanded Brielle to stand on tiptoes to reach him.

After a long silence, Andrew couldn’t contain himself. “Max, what you feel for Brielle–is it affection, or love?”

The difference was monumental.

of the earth for Tessa because he loved her. But Max

question, “It’s affection,” he said after a brief hesitation.

more burdensome than the world, a

affection was a shallow thing. Something so easily drowned in a few extra beers or cast aside after meeting

regarded Brielle simply as a canary.

easy.” Andrew said. “She grew up in an orphanage, starved of attention and love. Women fall in love through their ears–they just want to hear sweet nothings. Compliment

at Andrew’s advice, recognizing his friend’s

was not Tessa.

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11:43

Chapter 444

How about this–in a week, some of our friends are heading to a vacation lodge for a barbecue. It will be a blast,

the young and affluent set, a chance to build connections that could lead

worry, I’ll vet the

protect her from harm. However, the purpose of Brielle hiding the rosary was very clear. She temporarily did

her