©S A F I E

CHAPTER 1

ELLE

"So, Gabe, Elle...when are you going to give us something like her?"

Mom carried my niece up on her arms as she gave us that look. My face felt like someone has set it on fire and I felt Gabriel's arms tensing around my waist as he cleared his throat.

We are currently at a party thrown by my mother for our first anniversary. Yes, it's been a year since our wedding; a year since all of these started. This is the first party after the conflict that has happened. It was also the first one which Gabriel has agreed to go with me.

I am startled when my dad suddenly piped in, "We're so old. We still wanted to play with our grandkids, see them grow...you know?" Dad muses as he snatched the baby from mom, "Oh, you little pumpkin. Don't you look a lot like your grandmother?" He laughed making my niece cry. I sigh, scratching my forehead as I pull away from Gabriel, surprising him.

"Dad, let me take her back to Cassandra. I'm sure little Cece here wanted to be with her mom now." I smiled at them, taking the infant in my arms and chancing a look at my husband.

Gabriel is frowning down at his shoes like he's trying to solve a very complicated problem. He appears to be in some kind of pain. my heart aches for him but I shake my head. I have tried a couple of times before to offer him my help but he refused, ignoring me. If only he would tell me what to do or how I could help him.

It has been six months now since that nightmare happened, destroying everything I've worked for. I am not blaming Enrico, Gabriel's father, I am blaming myself, for I am not able to secure something that has blossomed. Since then, I find it hard to reach out to Gabriel. He has built a wall in between us; he started refusing to come home and leave me to myself every time we are asked to go to some conventions. He will take weeks overseas, spending more time in his company than with me he deemed me worthless, an accessory he doesn't even bother to display in public.

I do not know how I can show him how I feel. I do not know how to tell him how much I love him. We are back to how we have started a year ago, living like total strangers.

I smiled bitterly, tucking a hair on my ear. I remember the first time we met at the company, The West Holdings. It is where our love/hate relationship was born.

* Flashback *

"I don't want to marry her! How can you do this to me, Papa? Of entire New York, you chose her, for me?" There is some pause followed by a bang on the table. "Her family is our enemy. You of all people should know not to pair me up with some spoiled rotten brat! Look at the picture of her - so skinny and naive, she's not even my type..." The door opened as I struggle not to look at the tall man who went out of the room.

"You," I look at him and tried not to drool. He's Adonis in real life, not to mention that ocean blue eyes luring me. "Hey! Are you even listening?" I am surprised when he grabs my shoulders, and shake me vigorously, making me quiver under his gaze.

Oh, this man! He should be thankful that he looks so beautiful or else...

"Hey! I'm talking to you." I turned my gaze back at those ocean orbs, trying so hard not to melt. Am I dreaming? Surely, he is the reincarnation of Lucifer himself.

"You--"

"No. You!" He pointed back at me with his finger as his frown deepened, a 'v' forming in between his brows "Are you happy now that our parents agreed to marry us both, huh? I bet you're fucking ecstatic because you've been dreaming about all this shit!"

I didn't answer him. I watch as he leans down on my shivering form, my heart thudding harshly in my ribcage. I closed my eyes, almost hearing my conscious mind screaming..."Danger"

*end of flashback*

"Gabe, are you okay?" I tried to grab his hand but he shoves it inside his pocket. He looks down at me and little Cece before giving me half a smile that tugs on my heartstrings. "I'm fine, Elle. Maybe, I just need a drink, or two?" He held out his two fingers, biting his lip as he looks at me.

Oh, no. You don't. I know that it won't be just two. You will get drunk again and cry about your father's death. Plus, you are driving me back to--

"Okay," Oh my ...where did that come from?!

"Elle, give me back my Cece." I glared at my cousin, sighing in exasperation as I turn and find that my husband was long gone.

That git, he just doesn't care!

"Elle, Come on. Let's have some fun. It's your anniversary! I mean... birthday?" the blonde imp hiccups and smiled as he makes his way down to us, sporting a shimmering blue onesie. "Either." Frances mused, dragging me to the dance floor.

This family - I always wondered how I will able to related to them. They are so eccentric and...odd. Very odd.

I remove my heels and stared at my cousin, "What now, Frances? What scheme-?" They didn't give me the chance to stand my ground and protest when Frances carries me in his arms and shoves me on the dance floor. "Frances! You're making me dizzy, just put me ba--AAhhh!!!" The glass crash as I collapse on the drink display.

I struggled with my wet dress, glaring at the crazy cousin of my husband. He freaking pushed me!

"Ha-ha-Elle. Uh, I'm so sorry but, uh," He gave me a constipated look before bursting out, laughing, spluttering his drink around the other guest who looks at him with delight dancing in their eyes. Bizarre! "You just, hahaha--Looks like a cat thrown out while it is raining. You are soaked like a wet pussy--Hahaha! PUSSY !" He throws his head back before strutting to the dance floor, leaving me with the mess he made.

"Damn it, Frances! Help me out." I called out. I blindly grope around, trying to hold myself up when I felt someone hauling me up. I quickly raise my head to see who it is when Cassandra gave me a disapproving look. She ushered me up on the front door, calling for Taylor - our personal driver slash assistant.

I followed her out of the hotel and to the parking lot. Taylor opened the door for me but before I enter, Cassandra yelled, her hands on her waist. "Clean yourself from head to foot or else I'm going to bathe you the same as I do with little Cece! You smell like a minibar, Elle, seriously." She pushed me inside and close the door behind her as I struggled further inside the car with my wet gown and heels. Taylor looks at me from the mirror and I shrug at him, disliking how the evening turns out.

Taylor offered me a kind smile and I smiled back at him. He was like the good old uncle I have never had and I am glad he is our personal driver. I look down at my hands and huff, glaring down at the wet gown.

I wonder why ladies needed a balloon skirt and high heels. It's freaking stupid. And who made this damn heels? It makes my life harder. Even if it gave me a little addition to my height, it is still a pain in the as*.

I was surprised when the engine stopped and Taylor opens the door for me. "Mrs. West, let me assist you," He started to carry my gown which made me stand in haste. "No, Taylor. I can do this myself..." I can feel the heat rushing up my cheeks as I walk past him.

I was about to open the doors when I came with a thought, "Taylor?" He looks back at me as I smiled at him, "Mrs. West?"

"Oh, please...stop calling me that, just call me Elle." I gave him another smile as he bowed, ushering me inside the mansion. I went up through the flight of the stairs, grumbling with every step I take. I am delighted to reach our room at the end of the hallway. I made my way inside the bathroom and strip off every item on my body.

Hmph...like I care!

*

'Elle,'

Wait.

'Elleeee...'

Who's that?

'Elle-'

"Who's that?!" I jump out of the shower and wrap myself up in a fluffy towel.

'Elleeee!'

Freaking unicorn poop, why is he here?

"Wait, I'm in the bathroom!" I opened up the door only to see no one. "Gabe? Stop kidding me!"

'ELLEANA!' oh, I hate that name. I sound like a fucking alien.

I look around but he's not in here so WHERE IS HE?!

"Gabe, stop kidding me! Show yourself right at this moment or--"

'Help me up!' I can hear shuffling from the other side of the room which means he's outside.

"Coming, Mister." I turned the knob only to feel his body slump back unto my knees making me stumble with him on the floor

"Gabriel, you're so heavy!" I whined, trying to pull my husband up, but failed. "Gabe, wake up. Please..." I look at him but he just gave me a lazy smile and kiss me.

WTF! HE DIDN'T JUST KISS MY LIPS...oh well!

"Gabriel, stop!" he gave me a laugh before deepening his kiss and carrying me, "Gabe--"

He throws me down on the bed as I grip the towel, tight. "Gabe, I think, I think you're not ready. We're not ready and you're drunk. You don't know what you're doing, you just--"

"NO! I know what I'm doing and you don't have the right to correct me!" He yanked the towel off and stared at me, "I want you and I'll have you, now or never..."

🔞🔞🔞🔞🔞🔞🔞🔞🔞🔞🔞🔞

>>>r-scene down here<<<

(skip it if you're below 18)

I can see his tense muscles beneath his dress shirt as he lowers himself down at me. He unbuttons his pants and slips them down to reveal himself camping in those boxers, his very excited John Thomas trying to poke out of it.

"Gabe, please. You are drunk, we can't--"

"Stop it!" he pulls my hand up and place them above my head as he straddled me. I can feel excitement overcoming my nervousness as his hands started skimming on my chest, brushing my hair aside, "Don't push me farther away, Elle. I've had enough."

"But we can't-"

"I need you. I NEED YOU..."

That made me gulp. Damn, he is turning me on with his words. So hot but am I really up for it? I shake my head and frown in concentration - I am a married woman and this is my husband and I have needs, so, why not?

He interrupted my thoughts as he leaned down, making me speechless as my thoughts run wild in my cranium. I am unable to comprehend. What should I do? Should I really?

I am surprised when my body suddenly responds in such intensity I didn't know I'm capable of doing. I am now relying on my instinct - the animal that has been slumbering within.

I began kissing him back with so much passion that I found myself leaning up. I want to kiss him with all the want I have been bottling up for the five whole months that he showed no affection to me. He shut himself away because of the incident for which I'm not responsible. All the feelings we tried to suppress for the past months came rushing back with a hard recoil. It was making us shake with the passion of our feelings. Our fingers traced each flesh, wandering unto every part of our body that is better left out of the description.

He skimmed his hands on my face, pushing tendrils of hair on the side as he reached my neck. He leans in and imprints a love bite. "Beautiful. My beautiful girl. All mine..."

I cannot help but moan, my hands struggling to break free as he sucked and bit on my neck. He slips his mouth down on my chest as he took one of my nipples, nibbling at it.

"Gabe," I mentally shake my head as I hear my own voice. So, needy. Pathetic, even. I cannot just moan here and let him do it all.

I need to move.

I yanked my hand off his grip and unbuttoned his shirt, trying to memorize every contour of his sculpted chest before I slipped my hand down his biceps, pushing down his white dress shirt as I reached his hips, slipping my hands lower and lower...

"Gabe!" I tried not to shake as he slipped his finger in my core turning them into circular motion. "Don't--" I plead but my husband just looks at me. His eyes twinkling with amusement as he pushed another finger.

So, he wants it. Then let us make things, equal.

With that thought, I slipped my hand in his boxers and pushed it down. His body stiffened as he stares at me with eyes wide as saucers, "Mio Dio! What are you trying to prove, amóre?" he asked, his voice stopping in an edge as he used the same endearment that almost made me stop.

"Shit, Elle..." He moaned in my ears as I pulled at it and stroke, his member hardening at every move. After a while he recovered, pushing his fingers to move farther in my core. He circled them in my folds as both of us scream each name.

I've never expected this to happen cause I never would have imagined doing this with him.

Especially him.

I am brought back to the situation I'm in as I felt his member enter me which made me stiff. I whimpered as it penetrated deeper making me cry out in pain and he stopped, "You're a virgin!?" He frowned, his member throbbing inside of me.

"God, I'm so I'm so sorry I--"

"Shhh...No, I'm not." Lie. "I'm... adjusting. I need you, Gabe. Please, don't stop...just do it, now." I pulled him back and started to kiss him but then I was surprised when he stared at me, his eyes looking deep inside my soul. I gave him the same intense stare making his desire ignite once again as he pounded on me. Faster and harder this time, our bodies tangled and sweating. Our breathing labored as I tried to remove my hands from his grip and entangle them in his hair. I dig my nails on his back as I arched my hips to met his. His hips bucking on me as he moves in haste, pounding my body making the bed shake.

I grasped his hair with my hand, pushing myself up as I tried to keep up with his speed. I can feel something building up inside my stomach and then it happened; his hips buckling as he had his release. I can feel his seed flowing inside of me, giving a warm feeling on my lower stomach as we grabbed each other. We are trying to catch our breath as we glistened with sweat; dazed with passion.

I was surprised when he suddenly turned me, throwing me down as he lay me on my stomach, entering me from behind.

"Now, I'll fuck you..."

We've done it three times, his breath hitching on every trust. I am surprised when he suddenly collapsed on me after his third release, knocked out cold and asleep. I caressed his face as I whisper in a gentle voice, hoping that we will stay like this forever.

"I love you, Gabe. Why can't you see that?"

©S A F I E

Chapter 2

ELLE

I woke up in haste.

I could feel the cold wind hit my back as I stretch out, feeling sore and tired as I turn, groaning. The sun is burning my eyelids and I raise my arm to shield my face from its glare. I'm closed to sleeping again only to hear the devil speak,

"You're awake now..."

I open my eyes and realize that the affectionate man I've slept with last night was again possessed by the devil. What happened last night made me blush both in embarrassment and anger.

Why does he need to be so cold and heartless now when I feel great? he loves to ruin my precious moments.

Without looking at him, I muttered in a small voice, "Yes, I am."

I waited for another minute for him to just go and let me sleep but when I open my eyes, I still saw him there - sitting on the couch watching me like I was some dirt on his carpet.

"Why are you still here? Don't you have to go to your office?" I chance a glance at the clock at my bedside table and huff, "It's 9 in the morning, don't you have some meetings to attend to?"

He rolled his eyes at me and I gulped. Am I going to be berated because of what I said? I bit my lip, having this urge to slap myself. "I waited for you to wake up." He snapped, his gaze lingering on my blushing face. I hastily bowed my head for my cheeks felt very hot, and I couldn't stop myself from doing so.

"And--?" I urge him to continue, pulling the comforter high up on my chin as I sat up and muster the courage to stare at him. He sighs, running his hands on his hair, "I waited so that I can apologize about what happen last night." He confessed.

"Oh? That's all you're going to say?" I bit my lip and nodded my head, saying, "It's okay-"

"No! Don't say that it is okay," Gabriel stared at me, his gaze intensified that I can feel my cheeks blushing again. He stands from his seat and made his way to me. I bowed my head. "I wanted to clarify the fact that you shouldn't assume I will be nicer after this. I want to rectify the situation and make our positions clear in this relationship," he clenched his jaw, holding my gaze as I stare at him. He leans down at me as he continues, "I don't want to make you long for my love. Elle, I can be a husband to you – I can protect you and provide for you – but I cannot love you the same as you do to me. Please, listen..."

I am startled when he snapped his fingers at me, pulling my chin to make me look at him. "I'm so sorry if I took advantage of you last night and I promise that it won't happen again. I promise." With those words he straightens up, leaving me shocked as I tried to understand what he just said. I look up at him, and he surprises me more when he leans down swiftly, kissing my cheek. "I need to be at the office at ten. I'll see you tonight..."

I watch as he takes his leave, shutting the door behind him. The tears I've been trying to suppress from the last ten minutes he was there in front of me betrayed me, falling hot against my cheek as I sobbed my heart out. And what is the use of trying to stop them? He isn't here to judge me or bully me, I am all alone; Always alone. Gabriel had made it clear of our positions - I will always be a step behind him for we are never really in sync, even from the very start of our relationship.

Still, I had hoped.

I thought we were perfect last night; that we finally have a chance to fix our relationship and get back to how we were before but he shut himself off again, transforming back to that monster I have feared. It hurts me that he keep on treating me like this - That he doesn't care about me or what I do. I hate the fact that he treats me like trash after he's done with me.

How could I be so stupid that I give it all to him?

I'm used.

I know full well that we married because of the company's sake and not because of love but then...we fell. Or so I thought. Was it just me that have fallen to that cheeky bastard?

AM I WRONG? Am I wrong to fall for his tricks and yearn for him to love me back?

I thought he finally accepted me last night yet I have made myself believed a drunken man's words. I am foolish and stupid and I hate that I turn like this with him. If only I could, I will bring back the memories - that way we were together only about a few months ago, living in simplicity and happiness as we culture the love that is developing between us.

But now it seems impossible. He's back to that monster I have married...

I grab the sheets and cringe when I saw blood on them. My virginity, I gave it to him and even lied to him because I am a fool, a fool who is in love with a man that has so many issues. I yank the sheets off to change it with a new one.

I don't care if he's going to be like this forever. I'm pretty sure the divorce papers are on its way and he couldn't wait to get rid of me. He's probably waiting for the right time for me to give in and let him be, besides the year is up. He wants me to yield and have him win this.

Though I won't be the one that is going to wave the white flag. I know that in the end, it will be him.

Oh, before I forget, I muttered to myself, "Happy Birthday to me."

*

"El,"

"Elle.."

"ELLEANA!" I sat up on the tub only to cover my chest with my hands, my cheeks heating up.

"W-why are you in here?" I held his blue eyes as he frowns down at me, though it didn't hide the amusement in them. Gabriel brushes his hand on his hair as he enters further inside the bathroom. I look around, noticing that it has grown darker; my fingers have gone wrinkly and I felt cold.

How many hours have I been in here?

Gabriel leans back, his expression unreadable as he removes his tie. I bit my lip and adjusted in the tub, trying to grab as many bubbles but failing of it since they have already dissolved. I worriedly tried to lower myself in the water as an

attempt to cover myself but Gabriel remains standing there, his eyes glued to my chest. I bit my lip as I see him watching me, the amusement now clear in his eyes. I glared at him and tried my best to cover myself with my hands.

Gabriel snorted, "There's not much to cover so don't bother with it. Besides," He shakes his hands and smiled, "I've seen it all last night." I can feel my neck tingling as I splash water on him, my eyes widening at his words. "If you've come here to tease me, you don't have to embarrass me further by pointing out how I am a disgrace to women race!"

His lips quirked up and Gabriel straighten, his eyes still holding mine, "Frances gave me a chocolate cake," He pokes his tongue on his cheek and continued, " he told me that you want that flavour, so--"

"What?" I asked him out loud, not sure if he is serious about sharing the chocolate considering that it is his favourite. He gave me a look before continuing, "Do you like to share it?" He stares at me with his hooded blue eyes looking me up and down. His eyes lingered on the level of my chest, half-buried in the water and my hands.

I cleared my throat, "Of course! I will eat it with you." I blush about what I said, seeing the ghost os smirk on his lips. "If you must, you should go down while I change." He raised an eyebrow in my direction and I splash water on him, again. It takes him a minute or two before he takes his leave, chuckling as he closes the door. I swiftly take the towel from the hinge and wrap myself in, leaning my back at the door and locking it.

I am pretty sure that I have locked it. That cheeky bastard! He loves to tease me when I am at my most vulnerable, unprepared state.

I cannot believe that Gabriel has seen me naked again and I hated that I am feeling different kinds of emotions. Not to mention that sight of his happy friend straining against his jeans at the sight of me. Oh, joy!

I headed inside our closet and rummage for my clothes, a bit distracted by my thoughts. I am quite ashamed of how I acted towards him. How can I be so flustered after seeing him there? I should've tried to act as normally as I could. I guess I am just shocked at the sight of him staring at me from the door while I lay naked in the tub. As for the cake, I thought he bought it for me. I guess he has forgotten about my birthday considering that he doesn't even bother to know about it.

I grab a tee and boxers on my side of the closet before putting them on since this is what I call a sleeping outfit for I am not a fan of lacy lingerie or nightgowns. I quickly dress, shivering as I did so. I slipped into my favourite bunny slippers and headed down the kitchen, a bit surprised to see my husband preparing dinner.

Well, that's new.

I have never seen a man in a black suit preparing dinner. Not to mention a really hot guy preparing dinner. Did I just say that my husband is hot?

I think I did, but I'm not going to say that out loud. Not ever.

I take a seat and was surprised when a hand slipped on my shoulder putting a plate in my line of vision, "Chocolate..." I nodded my head, watching him as he takes his seat, looking at me.

"El, I have something to tell you..."

Oh great, here it is, the mighty announcement. Elle, we're going to have a divorce...Wtf. What the fu*k or Well that's fantastic? Can I really accept this?

I wring my hands together, biting my lip as I nervously stared at him, his eyes focused on his own slice of chocolate cake. "It's about our divorce, right?" I murmured after a while of silence. Gabriel raised his head to nod in my direction. "Okay. You'll say that you don't want to be with me now, are you?" he sighs, so I continued.

"You are tired to try. You are exhausted and annoyed. You are irritated to see this wonker as you clearly stated, am I right?" I pointed at my face as he clenches his fist, his eyes still downcast. He made a move to take a bite from his cake, still training his gaze down at it.

I breathe out, my hands trembling. I long to strangle him and make him see how I am feeling. I wanted to give him a taste of what he is doing to me, make him hurt as I do. But how exactly am I to do that when the man sitting in front of me doesn't care? I sigh. "Well, when do we sign the papers?" I bit my lip to stop myself from whimpering.

Can't he see that this is hurting me? He's so insensitive.

A silence settled between the two of us. I tried to even out my breath, my hands trembling on my lap as I bowed my head, now losing the courage to stay here and be with him. If it is what he wants, then I will let him have his way. I guess my opinion doesn't really matter to him. He never really showed me some affection ever since the happening.

"My lawyer told me that our wedding only lasts for two years and it depends on us now if we wanted for it to extend. Are you willing to extend?" I grab a spoonful of the chocolate cake and let him talk, my eyes down, not having the courage to speak up and tell him about my feelings because he might only use it at me. "So, what are you going to say about it? Do you want to?" He asked again after a few heartbeats. He will tease me of being weak if I tell him how stupid I am to be in love with a guy like him.

I grab another spoonful and shove it in my mouth. It did not stop him to pester me for answers and as I swallowed the remains down, looking at him, "Let it be."

I got out of my seat and wash my own dish, still not caring that he was following me around the kitchen - an ever lingering presence of the feeling I keep trying to suppress.

I wonder why he is acting like this when a few hours ago he was telling me that he can't love me the same way I did to him. So why ask me about extending it?

Is he finally interested in me because he has a taste of my body last night?

"Elle, I know you want for us to work and I'd be happy to-" I tune out his monologue and focus my attention on the task at hand. After a while, he returns to his seat. I can hear him talking on the phone but I couldn't care less. He has made it clear to me this morning, I believe I cannot sway him off his principles of being an insufferable man that he is. "Elle you can't get away from this forever." He told me before resuming the call with his client.

I passed him by, heading up the stairs so I can finally retire for the night. The hallways are dimly lit and I ran my hands at the walls, thinking about when I will be kicked out of here. Will he laugh at me as I haul my luggage down the stairs? I bet he will be so happy he will help me carry it out, or not. I was walking wistfully, occupied with my thoughts when I hear his footsteps behind me as I turn to my room,

"Gabe..." I warned him, turning around to face him, only to gasp as I see no one. Geez, could it be possible that I'm hallucinating about all these?

I shake my head and enter the room, dropping myself down on my bed. Yes, it's my bed because he never sleeps here, except last night. He never really sleep here in this house in the first place for he has a freaking penthouse on top of his building and I never had the chance to see it, or would I ever have the chance to because I only have a year left or less if he wants.

Brilliant.

I wonder if my parents know about this arrangement, or if - "Elle, move your small bum off my side."

Oh! The pillow, talks.

I turned to my left only to see the man in a suit now dress with white tees like...mine. "Who told you that you can borrow my shirt?" I pinched his sides only to earn a groan instead of an answer. Gabriel rolled his eyes as he turns at me, his face dimly lit by the bedside lamp.

"Well, this is mine, okay?" He pointed down on my shirt and said, "This is my home, my room, my bed, my shirt, Mine!" he frowns at me, turning to his side, "I'll sleep now..."

"No, you shouldn't! You promise you won't sleep with me and this is my room, Gabe. My bed and that," I pulled the tee from his back and tried to remove it.

Keyword 'TRIED'

"That-is-my-SHIRT!"

He sighs, running his hand on his hair before turning back and flipping us so that he is trapping me below. He gave me one of those devilish smirks that made my heart flutter and he flicked his tongue on my cheek and leans down to kiss me.

Wtf! This freakin' arse kissed me again!

"This is my room, mi amore. My shirt, see?" He pulled it out of his body and show the tag that says 'GABE'.

"But, but--" He pulled the shirt out of my head, goosebumps appearing in my neck and shoulders as the cold air touches my exposed skin. He leans to show me the same tag, giving me a smirk as he gazes down my breast.

Oh my, my. Oh my...

I covered my exposed part as he chuckled, throwing me his shirt as I scrambled to put it on me as fast as possible. I can feel my cheeks heating up as I tried to cover myself from him.

I can't believe that he saw me naked for the third time, again.

I pulled the blanket over me as I replayed everything. God, one minute he talks about our divorce then the next thing I know is I'm lying down below him, naked. I snuggled close to my pillow and close my eyes tightly.

Goodness, this is so embarrassing, but I can't forget it...can I?

©S A F I E

CHAPTER 3

ELLE

It wasn't a usual occurrence that I find myself lying on top of someone else's chest - much more when it was the devil himself, my husband.

Surprised, I hide my face in his chest, overwhelmed by his heavenly scent. I breathe in and sigh, snuggling closer to him. The morning was a pretty shade of gold and pale blue. The sun was about to wake the people up, peeking through the drawn curtains, the breeze lightly entering from the open window. I shivered, snuggling closer to him making me bite down a giggle as his chest hair tickled me. My eyes widen as I realize that he is actually naked beneath me.

Does it mean that something happened last night?

I quickly check beneath the blankets and sigh in relief when he was wearing some boxer shorts, his happy little friend camping inside, my cheeks flushing. I averted my gaze and stared around the room as the sun shed light to our wedding picture. I look so happy that day because even if it was an arranged marriage, I get to be married to the man I have always wanted for a very long time.

We used to attend the same high school in the past. Gabriel is the perfect example of a bad boy; with his cronies and obnoxious ways, he was feared as he was famous. His family status has helped him get what he wants. Even when he always get in fights, he always manages to be one of the honours while I score the top. Girls worshipped him as he passes through the halls, making me hate him more. He hated me too because I am always his competition and he made my life hell by bullying me, playing pranks on me.

It is because of this that I have fallen for him.

When he played a prank on me tenth grade when we had a camp back at school, Gabriel and his cronies tried to trap me in a broom cupboard. Sadly, his cronies are so dumb that they have managed to trap both of us. That was the only time I saw him afraid of tightly enclosed spaces. Instead of getting annoyed at him, I comforted him and tried to soothe him out of his trauma. The night was spent with words that have never been spoken between the two of us as the relentless rain battered the windows, occasional lightning shining from the slips on the door. I have never thought for Gabriel to be a coward; it is my first time to see him tremble like a small child.

We were later found asleep, snuggled close to each other. He was the first to wake up. He roughly pushes me against the side of the cupboard, making me hit my head. Even if he hurt me, I will never forget the way he looks at me, so full of shame and guilt. No matter how much I tried to deny, I have been caught in the trap.

All those years, I have managed to hide it from him, refusing to get in his inner circles and keep to my own as we finished college, not until my father has called me back to New York and arrange for me to marry him. I was aghast for I cannot believe how fate had played me.

Now, as I lay next to him, listening to his quiet breathing, I believe I am lucky enough to his wife for a year. I turn my head so I can stare back at him, too surprised to react. I held my breath as I study his face, his stubble lightly brushing my forehead as I tried to lean closer. He is really here, lying so peacefully. Does he even notice that I am on top of him?

He probably doesn't feel it because he hadn't pushed me off. I can feel my neck getting stiffer by the minute. I push myself up on my elbows and look down at him. My eyes were glued to his face; I am really struggling not to lean down and kiss him. I'm still finding it hard to believe that we slept together on the same bed for the second time and that, nothing happened last night. I slowly lean back to my pillow, letting out a sigh.

Not having the level of self-control I wish I had, I take another peek again and observed him. His hair is tousled, his lips open slightly for him to breathe. He was so peaceful. He looks so young and gentle as he lay beside me, unaware that I am practically salivating over his majestic appearance.

Why did God make him perfect?

This precious moment is enough for me to choke back a tear and smile. Even though he's cold and heartless most of the time, there is still a side of him that's warm. I believe, if he tried hard enough, he is still capable of caring for someone.

The fact that he didn't leave this morning made me consider it a wonderful miracle. It's the first time that I was able to spend one waking moment that he's here beside me, snoring softly as I look at his face.

I swallowed a lump on my throat as my gaze fell back on his lips. I couldn't help it - I trace his brow, and his defined cheek, that strong jaw, and perky nose. I didn't even realize that his eyes were already open as I trace my way up to his forehead again, my fingers freezing on top of his brow. The sight of his opened eyes made me stare at him in surprise. I draw my hand back, my heart hammering inside my ribcage that it is a wonder how he is not hearing it.

I continue staring at him, thoughts running wild inside my head. Now I have to face the consequences of complimenting the features of my own husband...

" I guess you're done playing with my face, Mrs West." The simple address to me made me almost jump out of there and run. What has this man ate last night that made him this, this sweet? And sarcastic.

Yep, sarcastic. The latter is better.

I tilt my head to the side, biting my tongue to avoid my mind from giving off any smart remark. I don't want to ruin his mood, most specifically when he is this playful. I have experience worse mornings in the past because of how talkative I am. Living with Gabe has thought me to be silent, speaking only when acknowledged.

Gabriel just gave me a smirk before leaning at my forehead, kissing me swiftly, making my heart go haywire as I tried not to faint.

Wait, am I still dreaming? Is this even real?

I was surprised when a velvet remark brought me back to my senses followed by a pinch on my cheek, "No, love. You aren't dreaming. And, just like you stated, this is very much real." He gave me another pinch to my already red cheek that I have to duck my head slightly to keep my tomato face hidden from him. I'm blushing so hard that I probably look like a cherry rather than a tomato.

He startled me when he wraps his arms around me and made me sit up, his form towering over me. I feel so small next to him. He stared down at me, giving me a gentle smile, "Those cherry blushes are better than the pale cheeks. I guess I have to pinch your face every waking moment so you'll stay like that every day..." That did it! I was about to pinch his cheek when he suddenly bolted, running off to the bathroom.

This is wrong.

I have never expected a playful Gabe, especially in the morning. I may have seen it a few months ago but I never foresaw for him to return this soon. I guess I would have to thank Frances for that chocolate cake he'd given. I'm sure he'd thrown whatever potion he has from his cupboard and made it into a cake. I guess Frances knows that Gabe loves chocolates and wanted to relieve us of some stress by giving it to Gabe.

I straighten up, fixing my hair with my fingers, contemplating my choices. Should I go inside the bathroom to brush my hair and witness what Gabe was doing?

Great! I'm turning into a pervert now. How can I even think about that?

My mind still can't recover from the happening from the other night. My body was actually wishing for some loving from Gabe again but I won't push it I do not want to spoil this little playful moment between us. If I would have to deal with this playful Gabe longer than usual...then so be it. I would like this version much more than that monster who usually possess my prince.

I raked my hands through my hair and thought about making breakfast. This is one of the best mornings I'd have to save down on my memory. Even though these things won't last forever, I might as well enjoy this magical moment while it lasts. I hastily went out of the room and skipping down the stairs, heading for the kitchen, I prepared the egg, crack them, and stir them in the bowl. I add some milk to it before I switch the stove. I put the pan over the fire as I pour some oil on it. I waited for quite some time, pouring the mixture down and sniff.

It was delicious....and glorious!

Grabbing some of the loaves on top of the fridge, I pulled four pieces and flatten it in the middle. I poured the last of the egg mixture on it before popping them inside of the toaster. Having done with the loaves, I brewed some coffee. While waiting for both to finish, I get back to the egg by mixing them, having a scrambled one instead of the usual omelette.

I grab some bowl and empty the contents of the pan into it. The toaster let out some 'ping' as I grab two plates, setting them on the table with two loaves on each. After placing the food on the table, I snatch two cups and poured the coffee in it, almost slipping into another dimension as I smell it. Now, this is what I call perfect. All I need to do now is fetch-

"Am I missing something?"

Nah. Forget it. I guess I won't need to fetch him after all.

"Nope. You are not. " I look down at my fingers, feeling nervous about what might have come out of this situation for I never wanted to spoil it. "Please, have a seat...I made us some breakfast."

It must be a miracle that he complied without any further complaints from his smart mouth. He grabbed a fork and scoop some of the egg from the bowl before putting it inside his mouth. "Hmmm...I must say that I kinda miss all these." He smiled at me and I have to stop myself from giggling like a teenager.

He is turning me into a Jell-O. He's messing up with my control system and I have to hold tight to the edge of the table, averting my eyes from him. Goodness, I must accept the fact that he would be the death of me.

I sigh, grabbing my own fork to have a taste of my work. I must say that I did great and to add to that, I didn't realize I am feeling very hungry considering that I haven't had dinner last night. Snatching some of the toast, I pulled the cup to my right and sniffed the coffee. I placed it on and my lips and gulped, not realizing that it is the most insane thing for me to do so.

I coughed several times, startled to hear laughter coming from the man I called, my husband. He looks at me again before another string of laughter bubble itself out of his chest - Smooth and deep chuckles vibrating from his lungs. "You probably haven't eaten from the last two decades you’ve lived- ha-ha-ha!" With that, he slaps the top of the table as fat tears flow down his cheek.

I'm quite annoyed that he's back to his usual teasing self but I must say that I'm quite amused at how he reacted. I thought I'm going to hear those snappy remarks on which he'll call me tosser or a nutter. But I guess the playful Gabe is still on the roll.

Grabbing my other toast, I nibbled at it not caring about the numbing feeling inside my mouth. I shouldn't have sipped all that coffee like it was some freaking fruit shake. I wasn't thinking at all. I guess this man who was laughing at me is the reason behind my unattentive behaviour. I am floating with happiness when he's near me.

The birds twittered from the window and I look at them, a smile gracing my lips. It was such a beautiful morning, a cloudless sky with a slight breeze filtering in the kitchen, the morning sun reflected by the open patio just outside, giving me a magnificent view of the forest. I am glad that Gabriel has chosen this location for a house; with the lake nearby, and the forest just behind it assures us a peaceful abode that is free of any pollution coming from the city.

I watch as Gabriel sip his coffee, his eyes trained on me, making me blush. I turn my gaze back to my plate and bite my lip. I guess I'd have to prepare breakfast often so he'll stay during the mornings. But the very reason on why he was still here, made me quite curious.

"Gabe?"

I almost slap myself right there and then when his head turns unto me. His laughter gone as his face contorted in a slight frown, "Hmm?"

I am almost afraid to continue but my instincts told me that I have to face this head-on, one way or another. "Gabe, why are you still here? Aren't you going to work?"

That came out pretty good, right? Or not. Base on the frown on his face, my answer should be the latter but, I’ll wait for his reply before judging him. "Why? Should I take my leave now?"

"No," I shake my head at him and look down on the half-eaten toast on my plate. "Of course, not!" I sigh. "I'm quite curious about the main reason why you are still here.” I wrung my fingers together and said, “Are you going to stay for the day?" I bow my head after saying that, finding the toast a little bit interesting as I tried to avoid his gaze, tracing it with my pointer finger. I am afraid to make some eye contact with him because I am dying of embarrassment right now.

It takes a couple of minutes before I heard the foot of the chair scrape the floor as he stands. I thought that he'll leave right without any further explanation but what he did next almost gave me a heart attack. He leans down at me and smiled, "I would like to make it up to you if you will allow me. I would like to share the best of me with you, while we have this year left of our marriage."

My heartbeat picks up. he is going to open the conversation that we haven't finished last night. I am doomed. I know his tactics; this is probably one of his schemes to make me believe of something so precious such as this. I straighten up my seat and brace myself to stand when he held me down, “Elle, I know it's wrong for me to speak about our divorce right after our anniversary celebration like I can't wait to get rid of you. It kept me awake last night thinking of what I did. It's very unlikely for me to act this way, affectionate and asking for apologies but believe me, I do feel guilty of what I did. I must have hurt you." He sighs, wrapping his arms around me. "That is why I came up with this decision that I am going to spend the whole day with you. I want to make it up to you by sacrificing twenty-four hours away from my pile of work in exchange for a chance."

He leans closer and kisses me, pecking my lips afterwards as he speaks, "I would like to see how we're going to continue and if it will even be worth it to give this a shot. I don't want to end all this without taking any risk." He leans down once again and kissed me, making me taste the eggs tinged with coffee and him, on my mouth.

I am surprised when he pulls me up on the chair and carry me on the counter. He's kissing me with so much passion that I have to keep hold of his hair for me to stay conscious and awake, the emotions bursting forth from my chest felt like it is suffocating me that I am gasping for breath.

This must be a dream! A very hell-bent dream that I'm enjoying right now, though I am not sure that I am creative enough to dream about something as fascinating like this.

The kiss was heavenly and romantic but humans need air. I have to curse both of us because we're not supernatural.

The magical moment ended with a peck on my lips; Gabriel gave me another kiss on the forehead before he lowers me down on the counter, "That's one hell of a kiss I haven't had for a while..." He blurted, a slight blush colouring his cheek.

I guess I have to say the same...and I'm hoping for more.

계속