©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

©S A F I E

CHAPTER 4

ELLE

*Flashback *

"Gabriel," I whispered, a bit nervous about what his reaction might be. He opened his eyes and I can't help but smile as he wrinkles his nose, scratching his head. He blinks his eyes up at me, a question apparent on them.

"Happy birthday." I smiled and push the birthday cake in front of him.

"Elle-" his eyebrows scrunched up as his eyes searched my face. "Why are you--?"

"I want to surprise you. You are my husband and I am ought to care for you. I want to make you happy. Rise from your bed and have a bite of this, I promise you won't regret it." I push a spoon on his hand and gave him a sheepish smile. He sat there, frozen on top of the bed, a spoon on his hand. I am almost tempted to take a picture of him for he looks a lot like a model but halted as I see his brows slowly meeting in the middle and he glared down at the cake, saying. "Is this the scene where the wife finally decided to kill her husband?"

His words made me smile and say a little 'no' because inside, I am burning so bright of irritation for this man. I mean, can't he just say ‘thank you’ to me? He's pushing my patience and making me wish that I did put some poison on the cake. I should try and do that next time.

I am so distracted with my own thoughts that I am surprised to hear him moan, "God. I haven't tasted a chocolate cake this good in my entire life" His eyes captured mine before he pulled me in and stuff some cake on my mouth, catching me off guard. The sweet malty taste made my tastebuds explode and I have little to no control of the moan I let out.

"Now we die together," Gabriel smiled at me with his teeth covered with the triple chocolate cake I baked. He looks so adorable and young, I wish he is always as playful as this. Bowing my head, I enjoyed the taste of chocolate inside my mouth, watching Gabriel as he finishes the whole cake, his cheeks tinted with the chocolate ganache.

Oh well, Mr West, you might not mean it but I am dying to make you love me back.

*flashback ends*

I am dazed as the memory faded in the back of my head. Staring at his glorious face, I snap myself back to the present and to the book I am reading. We sat by the parlour, him staring out to the forest while I am sat by the window, staring aimlessly at the pages laid on my lap. The morning sun is now high up in the sky, announcing mid-afternoon; the breeze has ceased, replaced by the ever prickly warm haze. I huff, shifting my feet so that I am leaning by the window pane.

"Elle, what would you like to do for the rest of the day rather than spending it with your book?" I stared at him for a while as he leaned across the open doors, his head tilted to the view of the forest, as though he isn't really talking to me. I raised an eyebrow at him and he turns, making me flustered once again "What? I thought you wanted to spend a day with me? I am giving you the chance." The smile that he gave me tug at my heartstrings that I almost choke on my next words.

Glancing down at the book on my lap, I said in a shaky voice, "How does the beach sound for you?"

"The beach?" He turned his full attention at me, his eyebrows raised. He moves closer to the window where I am sitting at, his stance inquisitive as he crosses his arms over his chest, flexing those biceps that made me want to drool. I cleared my throat and held his gaze instead, avoiding the temptation, bracing myself for the question that will surely come out of his smart mouth. "Why would you like to go to the beach?"

"For the same reason as other people have! It's in the middle of the summer now and I haven't even heard the crash of water on the shore. I want to bury myself in the sand, bathe in the sun and smell the humid air...I want to--"

"Okay. Okay." He rolled his eyes and snorted, " You sound like a dying patient." He struts out of the door, leaving me speechless. I am tempted to throw the book at him but I wouldn't. This book is too precious for me; I wouldn't ruin it for a man such as him, he's not worth my first edition book. I should've snatched a pillow from the sofa.

Standing up from the window, I headed up the stairs and to my bedroom. I entered the closet, rummaging for something I can wear for the beach. I pulled a sundress and a piece of swimsuit, and marched inside the en-suite bathroom, removing my clothes. I am halfway through pulling the dress down on my chest area when Gabriel entered the bathroom. He stands there, like a deer caught in headlights, drowning in his own drool.

"Like what you see?" I am surprised when the words escaped my mouth. I barely had the time to cover my face in embarrassment when I heard his chuckle, giving me the sudden urge to hurl my slippers at his head as I hear his remark.

"Pssh, you barely had a C, love, which is why I am not that impress. 2You have the body of a teenage girl, so skinny!" He laughs again, strutting out of the bathroom and locking the door behind him.

That git! He doesn't know what he's talking about because he isn't a woman. Puffing my chest, I am surprised when I heard his voice from the other side of the room, "Hey, what's taking you so long? Have you been already swimming in the toilet?!"

"Git!" I hissed, pushing open the door and ending up face to face with the devil himself. "All that is coming out of your mouth is crap, Gabriel! If I could only--"

I momentarily stopped my blubber as I watch him change into a pair of board shorts. "Like what you see?" He quoted back to me and I can't help but blush at that as I tried to go back inside the bathroom "Love, you already see all of this and yet you still act so shy." His gaze was so intense that I was caught in a trance.

My mind flashes back to his strong torso and his biceps as he grabs me, pulling me closer. I can almost feel his hands brushing the sides of my face, sliding down so that they settle on the nape of my neck. Still, his hands slide further down until he is holding my breast. His whispers tickle my ears as I succumb to the feeling of haven he has provided while I writhe in his arms, a prey to his love.

It was all too much and his intense gaze at me is making my breath hitch. I felt my cheeks growing hotter by the second. I cleared my throat, "Nope. You are wrong. I can't see clearly in the dark. Plus, there's nothing wrong with what I'm doing. I am your wife." I stated as a matter of fact. The blush is still adorning my cheeks and spreading to my neck, making me scratch my ear and hold his amused gaze.

"Everything is right with what you are doing, love." He pulled my hand and I cannot help but smirk at him.

•

ONE DAY. It's only for today and I can't believe he has given me a day to spend with him.

"Now, are you happy?" His face was almost funny but the seriousness in his voice made me stop.

We just arrived at the beach. I take the basket and followed Gabriel as he strode off - such weird sight that is expected from the couple like us, a billion worth couple strutting in plain sight, hoping not to be recognized. I know that there is a lot of risk because of what I had suggested but this is the only place I want to visit now. I wore my glasses and look around the vicinity, expecting the paparazzi tailing us from behind the stalls, ruining Gabriel's mood. I look up to see him still frowning down in the sand, "Gabe, what's wrong?"

He sighs, scratching his forehead, "Nothing."

"Tell me, Gabriel." I urge for him but he just looks down at me. He sighs. I lay the baskets and blankets down on the sand and hear him, mutter, “Later."

"Fine." I stuck my tongue out and walked faster than him, leaving him with all the baskets and blanket. "Elle, help me with this!" His words were drowned as I rush unto the waves and shrieked.

God, I never felt this happy before ever since I have married the devil.

Looking back at the shore, I spotted him, frowning at me. He has already spread the blanket under him and is now eating a sandwich, "Gabe, swim with me!" He shakes his head making his sunglasses fall from his head and to the bridge of his nose, looking ridiculously hot. The sight of him reminds me of those French guys I have come to be acquainted with over the years I have spent in Paris - his curly brown hair and sharp jaw is definitely a kill. He waved his hand as he holds the sandwich, sticking his tongue out.

"Don't be such a party pooper, Gabriel!"

I got out of the water and headed for the shore trying to pull him up from his seat but it was no use; he was far stronger and heavier than me. "Gabe, please?" I pulled his shirt and mocked a cry but he only frowned at me and resumes his date with the sandwich. I gritted my .teeth, annoyed that he is being a bum. "Alright, then. If this is your idea of spending the 24 hours you sacrifice for me - letting me enjoy myself while you stay here, dating with a sandwich, and not even bothering to enjoy the beach with me - fine! I hope you are happy." I turn around and scowled at the crowd who was watching us deliberately, not even pretending that they are not aware.

I headed back to the sea, feeling down because of what I said to Gabriel. I know it is wrong for me to be that bossy but I am only stating my feelings. It is unfair because he has promised to spend a day with me, to make it up to me. I am about to dip my toes in the water when someone rushes over and pushed me.

"Oomph!" I gurgled, my throat constricting as I unexpectedly swallowed the seawater. With my burning eyes, I struggled to free myself but it felt like someone is holding me down. I was about to scream for Gabriel to help me when I am pulled out of the water and heard the devil himself, laughing at me.

"What's funny?" I look around, trying to spot him as I blink my eyes, trying to get rid of the water. I crane my neck and bump my head with someone, "Ouch!" I push my damp hair away from my face and impatiently wipe the water off my eyes, seeing him there, his eyebrows furrowed as he massages the side of his head. "Gabriel? I thought you don't want to--"

"I was kidding back there when I told you that I am not interested in playing here in the water. I wouldn't miss a chance like this," He adjusted his shades and look at me, "Though your face looks funny once you realized that you are almost dying." His laugh sounds so irritating to me that I can't help but divert my gaze, my nose flaring as I let him finish his sentence, "So you are the one who pushed me? God, Gabriel! I almost drown." I shake my head at him and tucked a stray hair on my ear, a question at the tip of my tongue. "You thought it was funny to see me panicking and trying to call you for help?"

Gabriel stopped laughing and turned his attention at me, his face turning serious, "Elle that's --"

"No. I thought I was dying back there," I bit my lip, finally losing it. How can he joke about that? It's not cool at all. "And you just did it all for fun? What a sick idea you have for joking." My eyes burned of the emotions I am feeling. I bit back a sob, as I push the glasses up my nose and planned to march back to the shore, not wanting the curious attention I am getting from the crowd. I better escape from here while the paparazzi haven't figured out we are here. I breathe out, hugging myself tight. I can feel him drawing near and in an instant, his arms were around me, making me feel much horrible than before. "Gabriel," I remove his hands and frown at him, "Gabriel, let me take a break for a while. " I pushed him off me and walk back to the shore.

•

It was almost midday when I decided to leave the shade and find something delicious to eat for I wanted to cheer myself up, my thoughts in a jumble as I walk, dazed. Gabriel was nowhere to find and I decided not to drag him on my food trip. I'm mighty fine without his obnoxious behaviour. I do not need him teasing me every step of the way for he has a sick idea about what is fun and what is hurtful.

I am threading through the crowd of tourist when I found a hotdog stand. I ordered two jumbos and a fruit shake to go with it. Pulling my wallet from my handbag, I paid for the food and started to walk away. It was quiet at first then I heard them mumbling around me, before they erupted, the whole crowd laughing. I curiously stared at them and realize that it was me whom they are laughing about. I followed their gaze and was surprised that my dress was now split in a half, showing my cleavage and a bit of my breast. Blushing, I tried to cover myself with the drinks and two hotdog jumbo's on my hands but it was a futile attempt. I tried to hurry back to the shade Gabriel made for me back at the shore, my head bowed while I tried so hard to cover myself.

"Look at her body! God, she looks like she wanted to have sex with me, mate!"

"That was quite embarrassing."

"I wouldn't dare to walk around like that."

"Can you even imagine how small her tits are?"

"Sheesh, she must be so desperate to find a husband to walk around like that!"

"I would be displeased if she was my daughter. What a whore!"

I am feeling so down, my confidence hitting the bottom as I tried to quicken my pace. I was about to turn when I felt his presence. Gabriel's arms provided warmth all over my body as he shielded me from the curious crowd. Muttering something on my ear that I cannot comprehend, he carried me back to the car and closed the doors while I sob in my hands, the two hotdog jumbo's now stained with my tears as I cry.

"I'm so sorry, Gabriel. I have ruined this day." I muttered in my hands, tears trickling in my cheeks as I tried to suppress a sob, "It is so embarrassing. They've seen me naked! Oh, what will they tell about me?" Gabriel takes the hotdog from me and settled them at the back seat along with the drinks. "The media will laugh at me if they saw that. This is bad, really bad." Staring back at me, he huffed. He turns the engine on, putting the car in reverse as he speeds away from the beach.

It was silence before the storm and I could feel it - his heated glare on me when he is looking at me, his fist tightening around the steering wheel and his occasional huff. I know that he's angry at me. He is ashamed of me.

The tears slowly trickle down my cheeks, and I didn't even bother to wipe it off because of how I felt so hurt of his treatment at me. It hurts so much that even if I am the victim here, he is making it appear like I am at fault of everything that has happened. I didn't know that my clothes have split, showing my breast to the crowd who laughed at me. I have reduced myself to silently crying, staring out of the window. A couple of minutes have passed before all that I could hear is my sniffles as he slowly pulled over on the side of the road, cutting the engine.

"Shhhh," he pulled my chin up and kissed my forehead. “You did not ruin this day, I did. If I chose not to play a prank on you, you won't be angry and walk off alone. It was my fault. I should've been there with you. I was too confident on myself that you could handle yourself but I didn't realize that you are a woman. I am not saying it in a bad way - I just fail to realize the fact that you could be fragile even though sometimes you act like you are not." He wiped the tears on the sides of my face with his hands, smiling at me.

"I won't allow this day to end like this, Elle." he pulls my chin up as he made me look at him, "Tell me, how does ice cream, pizza and Wall-e sound for you?"

“Wall-e?”