The Girl (completed)

Meet Jade. The girl who wore a black wig, black-rimmed big eyeglasses, braces and old-fashioned clothes. Everyone thought that she was a weirdo, a nerd or a girl resurrected from the past. She was used to be the laughing stock of everyone. But who was really Jade Collins? Why did she hide her real outer beauty? What happened when her boss, the great Eros Petrakis, finally noticed her? Could she tame the beast inside him? Meet Eros. The man who had everything in life. Devilishly handsome, very powerful, brilliant, extremely rich, and had a body that women loved to worship. But, despite all that positive attributes, he was also very ruthless, tyrant, cold and heartless. He was his colleagues’ and enemies’ worst nightmare. They thought his name was another four-letter word of EVIL. He never smiled; never said ‘please’ and never apologized for his mistakes. His employees feared him most. He fired them in just a snap of his fingers. What made him finally noticed Jade? How would he react when he sees the woman behind the big black wig and dark-rimmed eyeglasses? Enjoy reading the story of Eros and Jade in ‘THE GIRL HE NEVER NOTICED.’ Join them in their journey in facing their trials in life, overcoming the shadows of their pasts, and finally finding love and happiness. Be inspired in their story. Laugh, Cry, Giggle and Feel in Love with them. Here's a quote that captivated my attention from Pinterest, I just want to share this to you all: "I always find beauty in things that are odd and imperfect - they are much more interesting." --- Marc Jacobs Well, I'm not saying that Jade is odd or imperfect, she's not. But I would love a man who will love a girl not because of her outer beauty, but because of her heart -- her inner beauty. Official Playlist: ------ Your choice, Kindly put it here so it's easy for me to find it.

CHAPTER ONE (unedited) - kindly put your playlist here - "The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman is seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides. True beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It's the caring that she lovingly gives the passion that she shows & the beauty of a woman only grows with passing years." ----Audrey Hepburn Jade's POV "Good morning, Mrs. Chang. Did you sleep well last night?" I greeted my employer happily, Mrs. Grace Chang, a 65 year-old widow. I was concerned because she often had severe headaches and couldn't sleep well at night. Mrs. Chang owned the small Coffee shop, in Manhattan, New York, where I got my family's bread and butter. I worked from eight a.m. till eight p.m. Monday to Friday as a cashier. The place was understaff, so I often worked all around. I did the waitressing, coffee preparation, and sometimes cleaning the place after work. I couldn't complain, since Mrs. Chang was paying me well. Actually, not so well, but enough for my family to eat a decent meal every day and pay off the bills. "Hi Jade, yes, I did. The pain reliever I took last night finally worked." She smiled adoringly at me. "That's good. What did the doctor say?" I asked while putting my worn-out leather bag and old knitted coat inside a closet, and then I adjusted my black wig and took off my eyeglasses, to clean the lenses. "It's just a migraine, nothing serious." I was relieved that finally she listened to me. I told her several times to seek medical attention, but she wouldn't. She had a phobia of hospitals, medical clinics, syringes and doctors. She probably had a traumatic experience when she was a kid. "George's wife had a normal delivery last night." "Really? I'm so happy for them, after five years of trying, they finally have a baby. It's a girl, right?" I instantly became so excited for George, the barista. "Yes, it is. Anyway, he can't report today. Could you fill in his place?" OH. That would mean doing two jobs at the same time.Whew! "Okay, no problem about that Mrs. Chang. I can manage." I smiled at her assuredly and fixed my crumpled brown floral vintage dress. Actually, it was my favorite dress and loved wearing it often. It belonged to my grandmother, as well as most of the dresses in my closet. It was already eight o'clock, and time for the Coffee Shop to open. I wondered why the other employees, Suzanne and Kurt hadn't arrived yet. Suzanne was the waitress, who took the order and served the food. Kurt cleaned the tables, the floor and the bathroom. Recently, I found out that Suzanne and Kurt were lovers. I caught them making out inside the bathroom. They forgot to lock the door. "You retard! Don't tell Mrs. Chang about this or I'm going to break your bones." Kurt threatened me. He even twisted my arm behind my back. A tear suddenly fell on my cheek because of the burning pain. "I won't, I promise. Let me go, please." I pleaded and finally he let go of my arm. "Good. Remember that." His eyes were glaring at me angrily. I rubbed my arm, it was so sore and my flesh turned red. "Now, go, ugly monkey. You're not wanted here." Suzanne laughed and pushed me out of the bathroom. Yup, they often bullied me, calling me names and I was used to it. I pretended not to hear their hurtful words. I just avoided messing up with them. I needed my job so badly and my family relied on me, besides Mrs. Chang was a good employer. "Jade, I'll be in the kitchen. Just call me if you need help." "Sure Mrs. Chang." I put on a black apron, getting ready for the first customer. I went inside the bar counter and turned on, the electronic cash register, as well as the coffee machines. I learned how to prepare coffee from George, the barista. For almost a year that I'd been working in the coffee shop, he taught me how to do the coffee art works and the techniques in preparing a very good espresso. I learned the barista's complete guide to coffee and embraced the knowledge wholeheartedly. I was cleaning the bar counter when the first customers came inside. Two men wearing black suit and dark glasses entered the coffee shop. They reminded me of the movie, 'Men in Black.' To be continued

Continues I looked at the tall-clad figure of the man who came in first. He was younger than the other man. He halted at the front door and his eyes scanned the room. He stood there, tall, devilishly handsome, with a beautifully proportioned body. I froze. My mind stopped working and my body turned numb. Something about his appearance disturbed me. He looked vaguely familiar. Is he a movie star, a model or a celebrity? He was probably into sports, because of his athletic physique. His dark glasses hid his eyes. It was impossible to find out where his eyes were focusing on. But I was certain that he was not looking at me. He carried himself with a commanding air of self confidence. He looked very powerful and extremely rich. He said something to the other man, and then they strode in the room. They took their seats in the center of the room. I grabbed a pen and the order slip pad. I hurriedly went towards them to take their order. "Good morning, what's your order, sir?" I stood in front of the two men and smiled at them. I wrote C#1, shortcut for customer number one in the order slip. "Good morning. Can we have a cup of espresso and a café latte?" The older man removed his dark glasses and smiled at me. He was probably in his mid forties. My hands were trembling when I wrote their order. I didn't know why, perhaps because of the younger man's appearance. He looked like a very important man. His face was bronzed by wind and sun. The set of his chin suggested a stubborn streak and his lips were firm and sensual. He made me so edgy and nervous as hell, and he didn't even seem to notice me. He was very busy talking on the phone. I couldn't help listening to his voice. It was so deep, with velvet-edge and strong. "Is there anything else, sir?" My eyes shifted from one man to another. "That's all, Miss." The older man replied, then nodding at me, a sign of dismissal. I served their coffee within five minutes. I stared at the younger man again. He seemed really familiar. I was sure I'd seen him before. I wished he would take off his dark glasses so I could see his eyes, and figured out where I saw him. Then I noticed, he drank his coffee. The cup of espresso was his. A few customers came in. I became so busy taking their orders and prepared their coffee. But I couldn't help glancing at the two men sitting in the center of the room, from time to time. I tried to ignore them and focused on my job. After a while, I saw two girls approached the two men. The girls were giggling flirtatiously at them. The younger man looked at them and said something that made the faces of the girls turned sour. He probably said something very insulting, since the girls immediately went out of the coffee shop with stony faces. Well, he was rude. The men left without asking for their bill. I went to the table, they earlier occupied and saw a one hundred dollar bill under the espresso cup. What! A hundred dollar bill?I couldn't believe it. I was over the moon! They left too much tip for the coffee. Later that morning, Suzanne and Kurt called simultaneously that they were sick. So, I was with Mrs. Chang in the coffee shop the whole day. She took my place on the cash register. I did the rest of the job. I tried to serve the customers so fast, so they would stop complaining about the slow service. Before I went home, I mopped the floor and scrubbed the bathroom. I was so tired, but I didn't have a choice. It was already eight thirty when I left the coffee shop. I took a bus to the South Bronx, where my family rented a small one-bedroom apartment. The moment I was seated in the bus, I ate the burger that I grabbed near the bus stop. After eating, I took a power nap. "Guess what Mom. I got a very big tip today. Two rich-looking men left a hundred dollar bill for their coffee." "What? That's too much." My mother, Ruby Collins narrowed her eyes. "Yeah, I couldn't believe it. I told Mrs. Chang that we could split the tip, but she said that it was all mine." "Awe... she's so sweet." "Yeah, very sweet. I'm lucky to have her as my employer." I took my wig off and pulled the rubber band that held my hair in a bun. My long silky red hair instantly cascaded down to my waist. I took a hairbrush and combed my hair, until it shone. To be continued

Continues How's baby Hannah?" I asked about our neighbor's baby. Mom worked as a babysitter for almost a year now. "She's still very adorable, but getting heavier. I don't think I can handle her anymore." Mom rubbed her chest. She had a mild coronary heart disease. It started six months ago. She was advised by her physician not to do strenuous activities. "Then stop babysitting. I don't really want you to work. You are risking your health. Don't worry, I have a job. I'll work during weekends too, to have an extra money. We can manage." "You're working too hard for us, Jade. I'm so sorry for being a burden to you." "Mom, please don't say that again. I love you and I'll take care of you and Sapphire. I promised dad that I will." I hugged my mom, with moisture in my eyes. Dad died of stage four lung cancer two years ago. I was eighteen at that time. He got it when he worked in an asbestos manufacturing company. A year before he died was the most traumatic year in our lives. We fought for his life. We lost our little savings and our cottage, just to keep up the medical expenses. It was like a nightmare, seeing dad's health deteriorated. He was a good man without vices, God-fearing, jolly person, and full of vitality, a very loving husband and caring father to us. I couldn't help but wondered why the good and godly people passed away earlier than their time. The day when we finally lost dad, our world collapsed. We were so dependent on him. We looked up on him and solely relied on him financially. "What's wrong?" My sister Sapphire went out of the bedroom. She shrieked with panic seeing me and mom hugging. She thought something bad happened again. "Nothing really. We just want to hug each other. We miss dad." I smiled at my fifteen-year old sister, showing my braced teeth. "Oh! I thought something bad happened. Anyway, Jade, I have news for you." "What is it?" "I was chatting with Joseph an hour ago." "Joseph?" "Yup, your one and only love!" "What?" "He asked for your Facebook account, and I told him you didn't have any social media accounts anymore. Then he asked for your phone number." "Did you give it to him?" "No! You said not to give your number to anyone, right?" "Right." "But he gave me his number. He asked you to call him, anytime. He'll be waiting." I heaved a sigh.Joseph. It had been two years since I last saw him. I totally cut our communication. No. I can't face him anymore. I'm not the same girl that he used to know. I'm different, totally different now. The old Jade was gone, dead and buried. A flash of wild grief ripped inside me. --

THE GIRL HE NEVER NOTICED is another story and focused on Eros and Jade only. The story started from the very beginning where they first met. Eventually, we will reach to the time when Jade was working with Eros already, and that would be in the earlier chapter. Then we will go beyond that. Yes, expect Chloe, Inigo, Finn/Markos and Nina to appear every now and then. Also Mrs. Grant, and more from Donovan Grant. A lot of exciting characters also, you will be surprised. Anyway, as always, I update every weekend, usually friday nights or Saturday morning. But usually, if the story is new, I often update, twice, sometimes thrice a week. It really depends on my energy and the inspirations I get. Yes, I write a story very fast, but I'm soooo lazy editing/proofreading it. So plsssssss.... understand and help me edit if my grammar or spelling bothers you. Just put it in the comment section.

U re really a good writer.... Ur stories re awesome.... D sky is ur starting point.....

Thanks

No more updates???

what I don't understand is why some one will start a story when he knows he won't finish it. I'm beginning to hate this site..

U r such a cool writer dude. And anyone can be lazy. Bravo!

Episode 5 --- “You don't love someone because they're perfect, you love them in spite of the fact that they're not.” ― Jodi Picoult, My Sister's Keeper Eros' POV "Hi. Um... I'm Gretchen." The girl who wore black miniskirt and gray shirt with a plunging neckline giggled. Her eyes were flirtatious, batting her thick false eyelashes at me. "I'm Summer." The other girl flashed her even white teeth. Her bright red lipstick made her lips popped out. "Yes?" Donovan frowned, asking the girls what they wanted. "Um... would you mind, if we join you?" Donovan looked around, checking for a vacant table. He cleared his throat and smiled at them. "There are still a lot of vacant tables around." Both girls flushed and then giggled, eyeing at me. "Actually, um... we just want to introduce ourselves." The girl called Summer, swayed her hips and bent a little to flaunt her cup DD breast size. "Ok. I'm Bond. James Bond." I heard Donovan introduce himself. I was amused, my eyebrows rose at him. I was still on the phone, giving instructions to my executive secretary. The two girls lifted their eyebrows, and then shrugged their shoulders. "Um... what's his name?" One girl pointed her forefinger at me. "Stark. Tony Stark." I almost choked on my coffee when I heard him say Iron Man's name. "Your're kidding, right? He couldn't be Iron man." "Whatever." The girl with a red lipstick looked at me with puppy eyes. "Um... we're wondering if you could hang out with us later. Go to the mall, watch a movie, and then go to a bar or something." "We're very busy, girls. We have a lot of work to do. We don't have the time for that." I heard Donovan rejected their offer lightly. "Ohh.... That's so boring." "Ya, and very lame excuse. I'm sure, your boss wouldn't mind." The other girl stomped her feet childishly. I had enough with them. I turned off my phone and faced the girl who stomped her feet. "Awww, it's so cute when you try to talk about things you don't understand. I bet the smartest thing that have ever come out of your mouth was a pe*is." The girls glared at me and then looked at each other's eyes. It took them a while to register that I insulted them. With furious eyes, they stormed out of the coffee shop. Donovan Grant, who was more than just my personal driver and bodyguard, drove my Bugatti Veyron this morning. I had a hangover. I drank too much alcohol last night. I attended a friend's birthday party. The crowd was full of socialites and celebrities. It was rather wild. Damn it! I even brought a girl in my apartment. Not just any girl, but the famous model, Kendra Packer. I usually dated a girl thrice before bringing her in my apartment. But last night, when Kendra Packer was introduced to me, she wouldn't leave my side. She was clutching my arm all the time. I didn't have a reason to complain, because she was smoking' hot and gorgeous. Every man in the party wanted her. And she knew her prowess to attract every single man that was why she was very confident that she could have me.

Episode 6 She was marvelous in bed, an expert in every position. I was shocked how she often brought me to the edge of ecstasy. She knew how to turn a man on, the pleasure points that drove a man crazy. Damn! How did she learn all of that? "To the office Sir?" Donovan's voice brought me back to the present. "Yup." I leaned back on the passenger seat, feeling lightheaded. Hmm, that was a delicious espresso, in fact, the most delicious espresso that I've ever tasted. I spotted the coffee shop earlier on our way to the office when I had a sudden urge to drink another cup of coffee. I blamed my hangover for it, it was killing me. My head throbbed and I had red blood shot eyes. "We'll drop by again in that coffee shop tomorrow." "Yes Sir." I saw Donovan smile through my peripheral vision. I bet he enjoyed his coffee too. Donovan was in his early forties, once a kickboxing champion and undergone Executive Protection and Bodyguard Training. He was more than just my driver-bodyguard. Their family had been working in our mansion, ever since. He was often hanging out with me when I was a kid, and he was a teenager at that time. We got along very well. I treated him like my older brother. Aside from my best friend, Iñigo Monteiro, Donovan knew the real me. Sometimes, more than my family did. He was the first one to know that I was bullied in school when I was in 4th grade. The other kids bullied me because I was the richest kid in school, the heir of a multi-billion company, properties and assets. Besides, I looked like a walking stick before, so tall and thin. Donovan often saw me cry in our house's basement. I became miserable and didn't want to go to school because of the bullying. I even started hating my family and myself for being born rich. One Saturday afternoon, when my parents had their vacation in Hawaii, Donovan taught me kickboxing. He showed me how to kick, punch and practice self- defense. I started enjoying the sport a lot. I was so determined to learn and master the sport. Eventually, it helped me to become strong and gained weight. Since then, he had given me intensive training every weekend, and most oftentimes with my best friend, Iñigo. I started gaining confidence in school. I knew I could beat every boy in my class. Some of them still bullied me, but I promised to Donovan not to use what I learned in kickboxing, unless someone started it for me. But when the leader of the group, Dexter, who often bullied me kicked my ass so hard, I lost my patience. I immediately grabbed his shirt and punched his face so hard. He was instantly knocked down and scrambling up from the ground. He attempted to punch me back, but I was so quick in kicking his face. His mouth bled and his nose was broken. Since that day, the bullying stopped. Everyone feared of crossing with me. They were scared of making me angry. But, on that day, I was brought to the principal's office, as well as my parents. My classmates testified that I was often bullied by Dexter, so, in the end, I got our principal's sympathy, and forgave me for what I did. When I became a teenager, Donovan was with me when I fought to become stupidly independent. He saw me getting so drunk in the bar with my friends, tried a drug, did meaningless sex with someone, going to strip clubs, etc. He still saw me getting vulnerable sometimes. He knew every time I messed up and helped me get out of such mess. As I grew up, he taught me a lot of things. Things that would make my family freak out. He taught me what he learned in Bodyguard and Security Training School. I mastered assembling different types of rifles and weapon tactics, assembling and dismantling bombs, etc. He was my partner in crime, my buddy and my friend. We raced cars and motorbike in maximum speed. We did dangerous sports, like volcano bungee jumping, Heli-skiing, high wave surfing, mysterious cave diving, etc. We were both the same, adventurous and fearless.

Chapter 2 episode 7 But, the Eros my family and relatives knew was a very different guy. They thought of me as brilliant, goal-oriented, confident, powerful, tough and not capable of doing silly things, the perfect man. They had a high regard of me, just like they did, with my ancestors, who were known as great men in their times. Ever since I was born, they molded me to become a great man because I would rule the Petrakis fortune someday. I had the best tutor in academics and language. Aside from English, I learned to speak Greek, Portuguese, Spanish, French, Hindi, Filipino and Mandarin Chinese. I graduated in Business Administration at Harvard University two years ago, at the age of twenty two. Since then, I had devoted my time in running our family business, the Petrakis International Holding Corporation, a multi- billion world shipping company. Just recently, I took my place as the Executive Vice President of our company. I knew, some of my colleagues and employees believed the worst in me. Why? It was because I expected perfection from them, to be very skillful, efficient, excellent and productive in their jobs. They just didn't realize that I was doing this for their own good. Our world was full of competitions. There were many hungry sharks businessmen out there, aiming to bring our organization down. They would even trade their souls just to see us crawling on the ground. Never. I wouldn't let our company fail. We have thousands of employees all over the globe who relied on us. They would starve, including their families if the organization suffered bankruptcy. No yearly increase in their salaries, no bonuses, no incentives and so on. I swore no one could ever bring us down. The moment we arrived at the office building, the security guards greeted me. I nodded at them and went directly to the lobby, where my private elevator was. Many employees were there, some just arrived and the others waited for the elevator to open. The crowded and noisy area suddenly became solemn when I entered, like you were walking inside an empty church. The silence was deafening that you could hear a drop of coin on the floor. Each employee stood frozen on their feet. Their eyes riveted on me. Fear and anxiety were visible on their faces. "Good morning, Mr. Petrakis." "Good morning, Sir." "Have a nice day, Sir." Everyone greeted me. As usual, I just nodded my head and went directly to the elevator. This was an everyday scenario in the lobby and I was already used to it. I stepped out of the elevator and walked towards my office. Donovan was following behind me. A girl with black miniskirt, red blouse with a very plunging neckline and too bright red lipstick smiled at me. "Good morning, Mr. Petrakis. I'm Viviene West, your new personal assistant." She was batting her thick false eyelashes at me. I looked at her, and then snapped my fingers. I immediately went inside my office. "Miss West, you've just been fired." I heard Donovan said. =next, Eros' and Jade's POVs in Chapter Three == >>>

Chapter Three -Kindly put your playlist here (ex. Steal My Girl - One Direction) “There are no rules when it comes to love. I just try to let love surprise me because you never know who you’re going to fall in love with. You never know who’s going to come into your life – and for me, when I picture the person I want to end up with, I don’t think about what their career is, or what they look like. I picture the feeling I get when I’m with them.” ― Taylor Swift Jade’s POV “Wait! Please wait!” I shouted at the top of my lungs and ran towards the bus stop. But the bus driver didn’t hear me, and closed the door. “No!” Panting, trembling, breathless, I groaned with disappointment. The bus left, when I was just a few steps away from the bus stop. Now, I had to wait for another ten to fifteen minutes for the next bus. I would be late for work, which never ever happened before. I felt so tired last night that I overslept. I was so stupid, I forgot to set the alarm clock. I dug out my phone in my bag to text Mrs. Chang that I would be late. I was scrolling my phone’s contacts when I came across Joseph’s number. I stored his number last night, despite having no intention of calling him. Joseph Nevin was our neighbor in New Jersey. Blond, cute with dimples, tall and lean. He looked like the young Brad Pitt. Aside from his good looks, he was also smart, very humble, God-fearing and very compassionate. For me, he was the kindest man I’d ever met. All the qualities that I wanted in a guy, he had it all. He was Perfect. My Prince Charming, Knight in Shining Armor, Dream Boy and my Mr. Right. I grew up having him as my best friend, my adviser, my protector and…. My boyfriend, well, he didn’t know that, but in my mind, he was. We even got married in my dreams and lived happily ever- after, in a castle, surrounded with infinite love, peace and happiness. Yeah, I was crazy, so crazy in love. I loved him for years and I was determined to have him as my boyfriend, and eventually, my future husband. I wanted him to be my first in everything: first kiss, first love, first boyfriend and my first sexual encounter. But Joseph thought of me as his little sister, who used to tag along behind him, wherever he went. He was an only child, and having me with him always, made him feel like an older brother. That’s what he said all the time, maybe because of our five year age gap. But I wished we wouldn’t remain in sibling zone, forever. The last time we saw each other, was not worth reminiscing. It was very humiliating, on my part. It happened two years ago, I was eighteen and just graduated high school. Dad’s health condition was getting worse at that time and his body didn’t respond to the medical treatment anymore. We lost everything, our car, savings, including our house. We were just fortunate that the new house owner allowed us to stay for two weeks to find a new place to settle down. I was so miserable, but I was trying to be strong, for my family, especially for Dad. I wanted him to fight for his life and not to lose hope. Joseph was there to comfort me. He taught me how to be strong, to be brave and trust everything to God. Since he was, a nurse, he explained to me the nature of dad’s disease, the symptoms, the disease process, medical procedure performed, the medications, and everything that I didn’t understand. We were sitting on the couch, talking, mostly about dad. His arms were around me and his fingers ran through the silkiness of my ginger hair. He loved my hair and never failed to touch it every time we were together. That’s why, ‘Ginger’ had always been his pet name for me.

Chapter 3 I settled in his warm embrace and rested my head on his chest. It felt like coming home, every time, I was in his arms. I listened to his heart, it pounded evenly, in a normal rhythm, like music. But mine was hammering wildly. I smelled his manly scent, hmm, so divine. Then, I touched his strong arms and feasted my eyes on his attractive face. Everything about him enthralled me and drugging my senses. The tingling in the pit of my stomach wouldn’t stop whenever I was with him. I held his eyes, studying his expressions. I was looking for some clues and signs on what he really felt for me. If he developed a special interest in me, he had no intention of showing it. He noticed me, staring at him. He pulled his eyebrows together in a crease and held my eyes. I smiled at him, then his face lit up. He gave me his usual tender smile that melted my heart and turned my limbs to jellies. “That’s my girl. Smile. Don’t worry, everything will turn out right. God wouldn’t give us problems that we couldn’t handle.” He caressed my arm, up and down, made me shiver with excitement. I shifted my position, and loomed over him. I held his face with my hands, feeling the roughness of his stubbles. “I thank God, he gave me you. I couldn’t possibly live without you now, Joseph.” I slowly bent down my head and kissed his lips. Joseph was caught off guard. With an almost angry gesture, he gently pushed me away. “Ginger, what do you think you’re doing? You’re too young for that.” I looked down, feeling so embarrassed. “Why? You don’t like it?” His expression suddenly changed and varied conflicting emotions played on his face. “There’s plenty of time for that. Don’t be in a hurry to grow up.” I felt rejected. Why was he doing this to us? I knew he loved me. I saw it in his eyes every time he looked at me. Why was he so evasive? Why couldn’t he declare his true feelings for me? Why was he holding back? “What are you talking about? I’m a grown up woman, I’m eighteen. Look at me, I’m not a little girl anymore?” I stood up straight, and faced him squarely, making sure that he wouldn’t miss my big boobs. I was wearing a tight pink shirt and blue skinny jeans. “OH, and you think you’re old enough? I just bought a Barbie Doll on your last birthday, remember? A miniature of you.” I heaved a sigh. “That’s the problem with you, you refuse to see that I’m not a little girl anymore.” Tears started pooling in my eyes. I was really humiliated. I hated him for always pretending that I was still a child. He stood up and took my hands. “Shh… don’t cry, my love. Yup, I noticed, you are actually growing up, because you’re now learning how to flirt with me.” He teased. “I hate you, Joseph.” I pushed him away, but his hands wouldn’t let me go. “You’re very beautiful, Ginger. A lot of men envy me, whenever we’re together. Someday, you will find your true love. Someone who will take care of you, and will always be there for you.” “I don’t want anyone, I want only you. Do you understand me? I love you, you, you, you.” I poked my forefinger on his chest. Tears were running on my cheeks now. I didn’t care anymore if I declared my true feelings for him. “Ginger, listen to me. I’m going away… this weekend.” “What?” What did he say? I was trying to figure out what he just said. “I decided to join the medical mission to Southern Africa.”

Chapter 3 “What?” I felt suddenly cold, like I just had an ice bucket challenge. He’s going away? “You know, how much I wanted this. This is my advocacy in life, to help and alleviate the suffering of the sick people, especially the needy. Helping the less fortunate brings joy to my heart. I want to be there for them.” “For how long? A month?” He shook his head. “Perhaps, years.” My world suddenly collapsed. I couldn’t believe what I’ve just heard. He was leaving for Southern Africa this weekend? I know how compassionate Joseph was with people, that’s why I was drawn to him, completely. He studied nursing because of his passion to take care of the sick and the needy. He enjoyed being with people, talking, calming and soothing them to ease their pain and distress. But going to Southern Africa, why? Since that day, we hadn’t seen each other. Dad was fighting for his life, and I never left his side. Joseph was very busy processing his papers for his trip. But he never failed to leave me a letter, saying goodbye. Eros’ POV I parked my car, outside the coffee shop. I never bothered having coffee in my apartment, since I was anticipating the cup of espresso here in the coffee shop. It was very delicious, simply the best that I’ve ever had. Donovan and I, ordered the same coffee that we had yesterday. But when I tasted my espresso, I was so disappointed. It didn’t even have the heart artwork design. “This one didn’t taste as good as we had yesterday.” I took another sip, then pushed it away. “Really? My coffee tastes good. Just the same as yesterday.” “Mine didn’t. I don’t like it.” Donovan looked at the Barista. “Maybe because, somebody else prepared it yesterday.” I looked at the Barista and to Donovan. “ Who?” “You didn’t notice? The girl, who did everything. She was alone, remember?” “No. I don’t remember.” “The girl with black hair, thick-rimmed eyeglasses, and wearing vintage clothes?” “I still don’t remember.” “Anyway, she was the one who made our coffee.” I nodded and called the waitress. “I want another of this, and make sure that, that girl with thick- rimmed eyeglasses prepares it.” “Sorry Sir. But she hadn’t arrived yet.” The blond waitress shrugged her shoulders. I nodded and dismissed the waitress immediately. “Are you done? Let’s go.” I stood up, not waiting for Donovan to answer. He was still sipping his coffee. “I’ll wait for you in the car.” I opened the door of the coffee shop and went outside. I was reading my email messages on my phone when I collided with someone? “Ooww!” “Oops!” I immediately caught the middle-aged lady before she fell on the ground. I held her small waist tightly with one arm to steady her stance. She was so light, slender and very delicate. “Are you okay?” She was clinging to me. Both of her arms were around my neck. She was trembling with fright.

Chapter 3 Her face was pressed on my chest. Then, she slowly looked up at me. I was so surprised that she was not a middle- aged woman at all. She was young, so young… eighteen, probably? Her face was well modeled and very feminine. And the wind whipped color into her cheeks. She parted her lips, gasping for air. It gave me the opportunity to stare at the moistness of her sweet curled lips. Then, I held her eyes for a while, behind its black rimmed eyeglasses. She had beautiful sparkling green eyes, like emeralds. She looked so familiar. Her eyes reminded me of someone. “Yes, I’m fine, I’m sorry, Sir… I’m okay.” “Are you sure? You look so fragile.” I let go of her and she instantly stepped backward. “Yes, actually, I’m stronger that you thought. Looks could be very deceiving sometimes.” I frowned at her. “That’s hard to believe. You’re so thin, I could easily break your bones with my two fingers. You even look malnourished.” She inhaled deeply and smiled sarcastically. “Thanks for the compliment, Sir. I have to go, I’m already late for work.” She spun and went towards the coffee shop door. “You’re welcome.” I provoked her. She sounded so upset. “Are you sure, you’re okay? She went back, stomping her feet on the ground and stood in front of me. I was surprised when she jumped up and down, then made exaggerated lunges and stretching, then, springing her arms upwards and sideways. “See? Nothing’s broken. I’m fine, OKAY!” I was amused by her actions, she was a funny girl. “Okay, I’m convinced. Be careful next time and watch your steps.” She glared at me, her lips thinned with irritation. We stared at each other across a sudden ringing silence. “Everything okay?” Donovan, who came out of the coffee shop, asked me. “Yeah, come on, let’s go.” I strode to my car and left the girl staring at us. “That was the woman who made our coffee yesterday.” Donovan said, the moment we were in the car. “Yeah, I figured that out.” I drove the car smoothly. “Too bad you haven’t enjoyed your morning coffee, Sir.” “Yeah… too bad…” I groaned then, drove in silence. Thinking of glimmering emerald eyes. After five minutes of driving, I stopped the car and made a U-turn. “Where are we going, Sir?” Donovan asked. “I realized, I really need that coffee.”

Wow, pls upload more

Chapter Four -- Playlist -- (ex. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran) "Just because you don't have a prince, does not mean you are not a princess" ― Zayn Malik Jade's POV "Hey, Jade. Romeo is back, and wants you to make his coffee." Suzanne shouted behind me, that I almost dropped the bottle of milk I was holding. "Romeo, who?" "The guy, who looked like one of the Abercrombie models." "Which one?" I asked Suzanne, but she already left, before I could even finish my question. I was in the kitchen, helping Mrs. Chang prepared the batter for the pancakes. I went out of the kitchen and scanned the faces of the customers. Then, I saw him. The guy I bumped into, this morning, and the one who called me malnourished. I saw him already left a while ago, I wondered why he came back. Whatever. I didn't care, anyway. I'm sure, he's also the guy that Suzanne referred as Romeo, slash, Abercrombie model. Honestly, I didn't like the guy, he was very arrogant and didn't know how to apologize. He regarded himself so highly, as if, he was someone very important. Actually, it was his fault, why we bumped into each other. I was hurrying towards the coffee shop, because I was already late. I instantly recognized him, as one of our customers yesterday, when he came out of the coffee shop. He was walking so fast, without looking at where he was going. His eyes were fixed on his phone. I was expecting him to walk straight, but he suddenly turned towards me. I was surprised and didn't have the chance to evade him. My face hit the wall of his chest, so hard. I was instantly cocooned by his warm embrace. I felt the roughness of his hand on my arm, and gave me a sense of protection. I devoured the moment and inhaled his pure male scent, a combination of fresh cologne, musk and coffee. When I looked up at him, I was starstrucked. He was indeed a very attractive man, tall, lean, with beautifully proportioned body. His jet-black hair was silky straight and his face was bronzed with wind and sun. I felt like fainting, staring at him. His magnetic silvery gray eyes melted my lower limbs. Well, that was my first reaction. Ugh! I realized that he was not a Prince Charming, but a villain. I thought he was a gentleman, because he asked if I was okay. But, he turned out to be a pompous ass. I was waiting for him to apologize, since it was his fault, but he never did. Then, he called me 'so thin' and 'malnourish.' I was really offended. Well, maybe a bit true, but not to the extent of being malnourished. I looked thinner because of my height. I stood, 5 feet and 8 inches and weighed 120 pounds. My impression of him? He was just like Kurt and Suzanne, a bully. I took the order slip and read 'one coffee espresso.' Then, I looked at him. Romeo. Yup, that's what he is, a Romeo. He seemed like an extremely rich guy, his suit spoke for itself. It was the kind of suit that famous celebrities and elite people wore. It probably cost, a month of my salary. And yes, Suzanne was right, he looked like one of the Abercrombie male models. But, I doubt if he was one, since he was always on the phone, talking about business. I stared at him for a few seconds, studying his facial features. He was indeed strikingly attractive, but with bad attitude, just like a devil. Then, suddenly, his head turned and his eyes captured mine. I was so shocked of being caught staring at him. I felt so embarrassed. Gosh! I immediately looked away and pretended looking at the customers, beside their table.

I went towards the coffee machine and made his coffee. I did an artwork design on his espresso, a double heart. Suzanne served the coffee to him. Eros' POV "I want her." Donovan coughed and stared at me, his eyebrows pulled together in a crease. "What do you mean, Sir. YOU WANT HER, as in, you want her?" "Yes. I want her, to make my coffee, everyday." I sipped the coffee again. Great, so great. This coffee is so delicious. "You mean, you're going to hire her?" "Why not?" I replied, over confidently. "I'll make sure that she won't turn down my offer. This is the best coffee that I've ever tasted. She's really amazing." "She looks... weird." Donovan grinned at me. "Weird? No, not weird. She's unique." He coughed again and nodded his head. "Yes, that's what I mean, Sir. Unique." When we finished our coffee, I went to the girl, with emerald eyes. She was in the bar counter, alone. "Here's for our coffee." I gave her a hundred dollars then studied her facial expression. She was avoiding my gaze. Probably, she was embarrassed about the incident this morning. "Your bill is only five dollars, Sir." She said, her eyes fixed at the order slip. "Keep the change." She finally looked at me. Her eyes were glassy and sparkled like jewels, as she held mine. She really had an amazing emerald eyes. I remembered that eyes, that gaze, but I couldn't figure out, where and when. "Thank you, Sir. But, I can't. That's too much for a tip, in two consecutive days." "You deserved it. You make great coffee." I was amused that she wouldn't accept the tip. It was unusual for waitresses or cashiers to refuse it. "Thank you, but I just can't take it." She put my change in the counter. "Jade." I read her nameplate. "Your name suit you, you have green eyes. From where are you, Jade?" "Um... I can't tell you, Sir. I don't give my address to anyone. For safety reasons." She shrugged her shoulders and played with her fingers. I was really amused. Instead of being offended, I found her funny. I was just asking from where she was, and she was making a big fuss about it. "I'm not a serial killer, if that's what you mean. I'm asking you, because you looked so familiar. Have we met before?" She shook her head. "No. I don't think so. We obviously live in different worlds." I knew what she meant. Yeah, we obviously lived in different worlds. The people that I mingled, places I'd been and the parties and events I'd attended differed from hers. "Excuse me, I still have other things to do." "Wait." I reached out and caught her hand in mine. She gasped and instantly pulled her hand away, as if my touch burned her. "Work for me." She froze and stared at me. "What?" "Work for me. All you have to do is prepare my coffee, everyday. No hassles and no work pressures." "You're kidding me, right?"

"No. I don't kid around." She bent her head and studied her hands. Thinking. Then, she looked at me. "I... I can't." "Why not?" "I can't leave my employer, she's so good to me, and treated me as her family. Besides, I don't want to regret making any impulsive decisions." "No, no. I'm not asking for your answer right now, think about it tonight. You can give me your answer tomorrow morning, no pressure." She heaved a sigh. "My answer would still be the same, tomorrow. I can't." "I'll double your salary here." She gasped and her eyes suddenly widened. She scratched her forehead, them palmed her face. "No, I really can't, sir. I love my job and I can't leave my employer. She needs me. If you'll excuse me, I'm really busy." "Triple. That's my final offer." She shook her head and smiled at me. I was amazed how beautiful she was, when she smiled brightly. "No, but thanks for the offer." Suddenly, all pleasure left me. Too bad, I love her coffee.

nxt pls,so intresting

Chapter 5 Jade’s POV “What! She’s dead?” “Yes, she took an overdose of pain reliever, last night.” George, the barista, called me, when I was about to leave our house, to work the following day. My heart was beating so fast. I felt so cold all of the sudden, and my hands were trembling. “No. I can’t believe it! She seemed so fine, yesterday. Are you sure?” I couldn’t accept the fact, that Mrs. Chang was dead. No… No… not her, please. “Yup, it was confirmed by Ricky. He called me, to inform us that the coffee shop will be temporarily close, for about two weeks.” Ricky was single, and Mrs. Chang’s only son. The rest of her children were women and already married. “Oh, God, this is unbelievable.” It still wouldn’t sink-in, in my mind that she was gone. This is a nightmare! I felt so devastated. Mrs. Chang was like a mother to me. She was a nice woman and a very good employer. She even paid me so well. I would miss her a lot. “Yeah, this is so sudden. Anyway, Ricky will manage the coffee shop.” “Ricky! Oh, no…” I groaned out loud. “HA! I know what you’re thinking.” Why, Ricky? Why not her other children? He’s a sex maniac! The last time he was in the coffee shop, he slapped my butt in front of the customers. He did much worse to Suzanne. He squeezed her breasts and attempted to kiss her. I didn’t think I could ever survive having him as my boss. I had to find another job. After an hour, I started looking for a new job. I couldn’t work at the coffee shop anymore, now that Mrs. Chang was gone, and with Ricky as the new boss. I searched on the internet, for any job opening, with my qualifications. I submitted my Resume to varied small companies, hoping and praying that I would be accepted, since I really needed a job, to support my family. Finally, a bakery accepted me, but the salary was so small. So, I declined. There were jobs, with bigger salaries, but I was not qualified, because of lack of experience. Many companies preferred college graduates also. Unfortunately, I only graduated high school, and never ever attended college. After one week of hunting for a job, I became so desperate. My mom and my sister, Sapphire really depended on me. I need to get a job, ASAP, to pay the house rental, the utilities and our basic needs. Aside from that, there was my mom’s medication, for her heart disease. I bought the Sunday newspaper, hoping that I would finally find a job. I was in the dining table, marking all prospective jobs in the classified ads section, with my pink highlighter, when Sapphire sat on a chair, across me. She just woke up, and still on her Kigurumi anime printed pajamas. Yup, she was an anime freak, and loved joining cosplays.

Chapter 6 Eros’ POV My eyes scanned her face and focused at the freckles on her cheeks and nose. She had a very beautiful face, so fresh and natural, without any makeup on. I looked at her left eye, and then to her right, a shade of emerald and jade combined, drawing me deeper into it, like poles of magnet, compelling me. My eyes traveled down to her luscious pink lips. Holy sh*t! A sudden painful feeling stirred in my gut that I immediately moved backward. I knew her. I really knew her. Her eyes… her lips… her face… No! She can’t be her, that’s very impossible. They have different personality, like fire and ice or oil and water. Jade looks so demure, conservative and very wholesome, that a man can be proud to take home to his mother… and the other girl was so… wild. “Everything, OK?” My father, Markos Petrakis interrupted my thoughts. He was staring down at us, on the floor, like he used to do, when I was a kid playing with my younger sister, Chloe. I straightened up and stretched my body. “Yes, sure. This is Jade, ah…” I saw Jade, at the corner of my eye, scrambled up and picked her big worn out leather bag on the floor. “Collins.” Dad finished for me. “She came here to see you. I don’t know what happened, why she ended up seeing me.” She came to see me? Actually, I knew she would. A big notice was posted outside the coffee shop that it was closed for two weeks, due to change of management. A security guard of the building also informed us that the lady owner died of drug overdose. I was impressed by Jade’s loyalty to her employer. It was not common nowadays, for anyone to refuse a job opportunity, because of loyalty. But now, that her employer was dead she would definitely take my offer. I was expecting her to show up in the office. I even left an instruction to my new personal assistant, to squeeze in, in my very hectic schedule, an appointment if a certain girl named Jade would ask for one. I missed her coffee. I even felt deprived of the simple pleasure of sipping and tasting it. I didn’t know what came over me, but I started to crave for her coffee every morning… very addictive. It released my adrenaline, keeping me energized and alert the whole day. Dad went back to his burl wood executive desk and produced a manila envelope in one of its side drawers. I raised my hand to Jade, a gesture for her to wait. She just nodded her head and stood there paralyzed, with her hands clasped together, like a kindergarten kid, about to sing Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, in front of the class. I strode towards my dad, who was sitting behind his desk. I stood across him and shove my hands in my pants pocket. “Don’t hesitate to fire those reckless employees. They’re liabilities in our company. I can’t imagine losing a major transaction, for that reason.” “I don’t think there’s any miscommunication, Jade here, admitted that it was her fault.” I shook my head disapprovingly, and then looked briefly at her over my shoulder. She looked so funny, standing there and looking around the office, clearly, amazed of her surroundings.

Chapter 6 Eros’ POV My eyes scanned her face and focused at the freckles on her cheeks and nose. She had a very beautiful face, so fresh and natural, without any makeup on. I looked at her left eye, and then to her right, a shade of emerald and jade combined, drawing me deeper into it, like poles of magnet, compelling me. My eyes traveled down to her luscious pink lips. Holy sh*t! A sudden painful feeling stirred in my gut that I immediately moved backward. I knew her. I really knew her. Her eyes… her lips… her face… No! She can’t be her, that’s very impossible. They have different personality, like fire and ice or oil and water. Jade looks so demure, conservative and very wholesome, that a man can be proud to take home to his mother… and the other girl was so… wild. “Everything, OK?” My father, Markos Petrakis interrupted my thoughts. He was staring down at us, on the floor, like he used to do, when I was a kid playing with my younger sister, Chloe. I straightened up and stretched my body. “Yes, sure. This is Jade, ah…” I saw Jade, at the corner of my eye, scrambled up and picked her big worn out leather bag on the floor. “Collins.” Dad finished for me. “She came here to see you. I don’t know what happened, why she ended up seeing me.” She came to see me? Actually, I knew she would. A big notice was posted outside the coffee shop that it was closed for two weeks, due to change of management. A security guard of the building also informed us that the lady owner died of drug overdose. I was impressed by Jade’s loyalty to her employer. It was not common nowadays, for anyone to refuse a job opportunity, because of loyalty. But now, that her employer was dead she would definitely take my offer. I was expecting her to show up in the office. I even left an instruction to my new personal assistant, to squeeze in, in my very hectic schedule, an appointment if a certain girl named Jade would ask for one. I missed her coffee. I even felt deprived of the simple pleasure of sipping and tasting it. I didn’t know what came over me, but I started to crave for her coffee every morning… very addictive. It released my adrenaline, keeping me energized and alert the whole day. Dad went back to his burl wood executive desk and produced a manila envelope in one of its side drawers. I raised my hand to Jade, a gesture for her to wait. She just nodded her head and stood there paralyzed, with her hands clasped together, like a kindergarten kid, about to sing Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, in front of the class. I strode towards my dad, who was sitting behind his desk. I stood across him and shove my hands in my pants pocket. “Don’t hesitate to fire those reckless employees. They’re liabilities in our company. I can’t imagine losing a major transaction, for that reason.” “I don’t think there’s any miscommunication, Jade here, admitted that it was her fault.” I shook my head disapprovingly, and then looked briefly at her over my shoulder. She looked so funny, standing there and looking around the office, clearly, amazed of her surroundings.

Continuation I rubbed my neck, feeling so exhausted. My eyes burned dryly from sleeplessness. Lately, I was so engrossed in making strategic plans and organizational set up for our newly acquired shipyard in New Zealand. Aside from that, I was thinking of ways to get hold of that abandon shipyard in Japan, which my father and I wanted to acquire. The problem was majority of the board of directors was very hesitant to bid on it. I presented my business plan, and did several revisions on it, but still they were very hesitant, and scared of losing our investments. I sighed, feeling weary of the argument I had with some of the board members, in the conference room, located beside my dad’s office. I was there since one o’clock in the afternoon. I was the one presided the board meeting. Dad left the meeting ahead of me. He gave me our secret hand signal to see him in his office afterwards. I knew he wanted to discuss a very confidential matter. “Here’s our last contingency plan for the Japan shipyard.” He handed me the manila envelope. Inside it were obviously, very confidential documents. “You present it, if majority of the board still disagree with our proposal. We don’t have any choice since we’re running out of time. That is our last resort. We can’t take the risk of losing this major project. The company needs this, so badly. I want you to study this, thoroughly, son. I’m relying on you on this project. A contract should be executed as soon as possible. Signed, sealed and delivered in five days.” “Of course. I won’t fail you. I also made a contingency plan. I’ll check if this coincides with my own.” I clasped the manila envelope tightly with my both hands. “OK. So, I’ll see you tonight.” I nodded and turned to go. “Your mom said that you’ll bring your new girlfriend with you.” My dad’s statement made me stop and faced him again. “Yeah, mom wanted to meet Kendra.” I wanted to explain to him, that Kendra was not my girlfriend, but my FB, f**king buddy, but I was sure, he wouldn’t understand that. Dad frowned, his lips twisted with distaste. “Isn’t she that girl, in Times Square electronic screen, wearing only a red negligee?” I exhaled heavily and looked away. I was anxious to escape from his questionings. “Yes. I have to go. See you later.” I knew dad didn’t like the idea of me, dating Kendra Packer. She was a famous model, and had a reputation of dating different men. Not just ordinary men, but extremely rich men. Her last relationship was with a fifty year old Italian billionaire. Kendra was so hard to resist. She knew what she wanted and really aimed of getting it, by hook or by crook. And now, she wanted me, so badly. Thrice this week, she slept in my apartment. She just arrived unexpectedly in the middle of the night. I didn’t have a choice but to let her in, she was pretty insistent. “Come with me.” I said without looking at Jade and picked her broken eyeglasses on the floor. I strode out of my father’s office and went directly to his secretary. “Faye, ask a messenger to send this to the Optometrist Clinic downstairs. I want this replaced, exactly as it is, in an hour. Have it send in my office.” “Yes, sir.” I went directly to the elevator. I knew Jade was following me, I could sense that she was. My mind was in turmoil, thinking about our latest project. I have to find a way, to gain approval from the board. Think. Think. Think.

Too short but still the continuation I was about to close the elevator door, when I realized that Jade was not following me anymore. Bloody hell! Where the hell is she?

Chapter 7 Chapter Seven (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here-- "Oh, I wouldn't mind, Hazel Grace. It would be a privilege to have my heart broken by you." ― John Green, The Fault in Our Stars Jade's POV "Mr. Petrakis? Mr. Petrakis..." Where is he? He said, to go with him. I tried to keep up his pace, but he was walking so fast. I couldn't see clearly. I lost my focus on where he was going. Finally, I saw a door, and decided to open it. Maybe, this is his office. I turned the knob slowly, and opened it widely. I stood in the doorframe, scanning the room, trying to figure out what was inside the room. It was all white with cubicles in it. I heard the swishing sound of water, and saw about four men standing and facing the wall, talking. "I won't give my vote to that Japan shipyard, unless, Petrakis offers to increase my share on it." "Yeah, right. That's what I was thinking too. Shh... I heard, father and son are really after it, because there are gold bars hidden underneath the shipyard." My breathing quickened and my cheeks felt warm. For heaven's sake! I'm in the Men's Comfort Room! Before I could turn to go, the men spun around and saw me. "Hey, lady! What are you doing here? This is the men's room!" One man yelled at me. "What the...!" Another man exclaimed. "I'm sorry, sorry sir... sorry." I apologized to them and immediately left, half running, to escape the humiliation. Suddenly, something hard hit me and my arms were grasped with strong hands. "Where have you been? I thought you were following me." My face was plastered at Eros Petrakis chest, and smelled his pure male scent. Oh no! Not again. I instantly stepped backward, avoiding the contact of his body. "I... I was. I can't see clearly, without my eyeglasses. I... I lost you." "You should have told me that you can't see clearly." He groaned and picked up the manila envelope that fell on the floor. "Come." We strode towards an elevator. This time, he walked beside me and even waited for me to enter the elevator first. "So, why do you want to see me?" He asked the moment the elevator door closed. "I want to take your job offer, Mr. Petrakis." Please, please, please. I wanted to add, desperately. He was suddenly silent. Standing there, looking at me, as if I was a piece of specimen. I could feel his gaze traveled up and down my body. My cheeks suddenly felt warm, I felt embarrassed by his scrutiny. I adjusted my big leather bag, on my shoulder, and clasped it in front of me, covering my body. "Do you have your CV with you?" Finally, he replied. "Yes, sir." "Let's see, if you're qualified." He said curtly. Just in time, the elevator door opened and he stepped out ahead of me. Qualified? I thought I'm qualified as his coffee girl. He likes my coffee, right? My feet suddenly trembled. I was scared of being rejected again. I really needed a job, any job. I silently prayed the 'Lord's Prayer' earnestly, again and again, until Mr. Petrakis voice, jolted me. "Is everything okay, Miss Collins?" "Yes... yes, Sir." I nodded at him. A woman appeared when we arrived outside his office. She seemed young, with light blond hair pulled up in a conservative bun. Her black executive suit fitted on her nicely. She looked so smart, very professional and yet so gorgeous. "Good afternoon, Mr. Petrakis." The woman greeted him, in a very sweet voice. "You can go now, Miss Leech." He answered firmly. "Bye, Mr. Petrakis." The woman said, without even glancing at me. I wondered if she saw me. I felt like I was invisible. She was probably his secretary. We entered his office. It was a huge room, with black and white furnishing. I tried to figure out what was inside the room, but I couldn't see clearly. "Sit down, Miss Collins." He was already seated behind his black executive desk, leaning his back on his chair, waiting for me. I immediately sat down, across him, and took the brown envelope inside my big leather bag. I was about to get my CV inside the envelope, when he raised his hand, a signal for me to stop. "Just tell me about yourself, Miss Collins." I took a deep breath, feeling so uneasy. I always get so flustered when asked to talk about myself. I felt like I didn't have anything clever to say. I preferred being interviewed rather than talk about myself. I heaved a frustrated sigh. But I had no choice I needed a job for my family to survive. I had to bear this, even though it was so awkward.

Continuation "You can start now." "Um... ah... I'm Jade Collins, 20 years old." My palms were sweating now, and I rubbed it on my brown floral dress. I really felt so nervous. "Go on, Miss Collins." "I was born in New Jersey and lived there until two years ago. We transferred in South Bronx, when my dad died. He died of lung cancer... I'm currently living with my mom, and sister. My mom is working as a babysitter. She's not allowed by her cardiologist to do strenuous jobs, because of her heart disease. My sister Sapphire is fifteen and still finishing high school..." "Tell me about your education and work experience." "I graduated high school in New Jersey Princeton High School. When my dad died... we lost everything, including our savings for my tuition fee in college. I was supposed to take Arts and Design course, but because of what happened, I ended up working in a coffee shop." "So, you'd been working in the coffee shop for two years already?" "Um... no. Only for a year." My heart started to hammer very fast. Please don't let him ask, please.... "Okay. So, what did you do, a year before that?" The question I loathed to answer, because I didn't have a choice, but to lie. "I... I... stayed with my grandma. She was alone... and... and... she needed someone to be with her." I stammered. But it was partly true. "So, you worked in a coffee shop. How did you learn to make delicious coffee?" "The barista, George, taught me how to do art designs for coffee. I was so interested on it, since I love arts and designing anything. I helped him every time the coffee shop became so busy. Then, he taught me how to make coffee, the techniques and the baristas guidelines in making coffee..." I was rattling about the coffee shop, the coffee, George and even about Mrs. Chang, for about twenty minutes already, when I noticed that he was not responding anymore. "Mr. Petrakis? Mr. Petrakis..." I almost whispered. What happen? I wished I could see his eyes. I wanted to know if he was still listening to me or already... asleep. "Mr. Petrakis?" I said his name again, but he didn't even stir. Then, I heard a soft knock on the door. I tried to ignore it, but there it was again. I slowly went to the door to open it, very careful not to stumble. "Hi. Is Mr. Petrakis, in there?" A boy in a messenger uniform peeped inside. "Yes. Over there." I pointed at him, behind his desk. "Oh, he's asleep. Anyway, I'm Tom, from Dr. Travis Clinic. I was asked to deliver these eyeglasses here, I bet this is yours?" He whispered. "Yes, this is mine." I whispered back at him. I was so happy that my broken eyeglasses were replaced with a new one. "Thank you." "You're welcome. I have to go." The moment the messenger left, I opened the case of my eyeglasses. Wow! It was exactly the same as the broken one. I loved it. I immediately put it on. Thanks God, now, I can clearly see everything. I looked around his office. It was a very huge room, probably, the same size as his father's office, but the ornaments and furniture were all modern, in black and white colors. I looked around, awed by the beauty of my surroundings. Expensive white leather couches and chairs with unique table design, book shelves, and a glass cabinet full of plaques, trophies and awards. The wall to wall large glass windows that viewed the skyscrapers of New York City was so amazing. Then, my eyes focused at the man behind the desk. I tried to hold my laughter, by clamping my mouth with one hand. I couldn't believe that the powerful billionaire, Mr. Eros Petrakis fell asleep on his chair. Either he was so tired, or he was so bored listening to my stories. Whatever. I studied his physical features. The five o'clock shadow of his beard already appeared, giving him a very manly look. His jet black hair was thick and silky straight, made him look, strikingly attractive. Then, my eyes caught at one lock that fell a little forward onto his head, I was staring at it, tempted to brush it back on his head. No! I'll be dead if I do that. I observed him. He looked so tough, lean and sinewy even while asleep. I made some noise to wake him up. I jumped up and down. I dragged my seat, tapped his table, even tried to move his chair. But still, he wouldn't wake up.

CONTINUATION "Mr. Petrakis... please wake up. I'm done already. Mr. Petrakis!" I sighed heavily, feeling so defeated. Then I remembered something. I cleared my throat then sang my all time favorite song. "I Will Always Love You." I was singing the chorus of the song, so heartily, when Mr. Petrakis stirred and suddenly said. "Miss Collins, stop singing. You're already hired." ***Don't forget to COMMENT and SHARE.***** i love you,

Uhmmmm... On to da next one pls!

Wow, so lovely! Next update pls

I love this episode too, it's so breathtakingly interesting.

Chapter 8 Eros’ POV What the hell! I thought there was a fire. Her voice is not very pleasant in the ears. I even started to have a headache. She should stick making delicious coffee, rather than attempting to be a singer. I unintentionally fell asleep while doing a job interview with her. I did not sleep well last night, and tiredness suddenly overwhelmed me. The thrill and pressure of closing a very important deal made me always on the edge, that sleeping became the least priority. It was like an obsession, a ruling passion for power, authority and total control. I stared at her. Jade Collins. She looked so innocent, like a pristine maiden, standing there in front of me. Her expression, a mixture of surprise and delight. “I’m hired?” She replied. Her hands covered her mouth and her eyes were wide open. She really had an amazing emerald eyes, very captivating. “Yeah, and you’re going to start tomorrow morning.” I said in a firm, authoritative voice. “Yes! Yes, yes! Thank you so much, Mr. Petrakis! You’re my savior. You don’t know how important this is to me and my family.” She was jumping up and down, so overwhelmed with happiness. The thought of her coming closer and flinging her arms around me, crossed my mind. No way, she wouldn’t - but, what if she would? I wondered how would I handle a situation like that? I was so facinated by her reaction. She was like a young girl, receiving a doll and balloons on her birthday. She had no qualms in expressing her feelings, and didn’t give a damn if she looked funny or stupid. I like her personality, very simple and no pretentions. So different from the girls I’d met. “Here’s my address.” I handed my calling card to her. “I want you to be there in my apartment at exactly five o’clock, tomorrow morning. Make sure to be there on time. I don’t tolerate late employees.” She grasped the calling card with both hands, then stared at it. “I’ll be there Mr. Petrakis. I wont be late.” He gave me a bright and cheerful smile, showing her braced teeth. “Okay, so it’s settled. You can go now, Miss Collins.” I said, dismissing her abruptly. Even though I was amused by her personality, I didn’t want to show it to her. As I came of age, I learned to take control of my emotions and refrained showing what I really felt. I had to be tough, courageous and emotionally strong. I ran a multinational corporation, thousands of employees relied on me, even my family. Any sign of weakness could be used by our competitors, the business sharks, in the business world, as a weapon against me and the company, I diverted my eyes to the manila envelope on my table. I opened it and took the documents out, ready to scan the contingency plan that my father prepared. But, when I looked up, Jade was still there, standing in front of me and not even moved an inch. She was twisting her fingers. “I said, you’re dismissed.” I said firmly, emphasizing each word. I was also trying to intimidate her, to create a barrier between us. “Um, ah… “

Wow! U r reaaly good Meshack, but I keep wondering wat happened to d story; 'Dating a bad girl'

Wow! U r reaaly good Meshack, but I keep wondering wat happened to d story; 'Dating a bad girl'. I couldn't find it anywhere.

Nd me too ooo i've been searching 4 it o

Pls continue

Guys am still working on this story thats why itz taking much time to update

Chapter 8 “Do you have questions? Or clarifications?” “Um… yes, Mr. Petrakis. How much is my… salary?” She said in a shaking, fragile voice. “I keep my word, Miss Collins. I offered you thrice your salary at the coffee shop, so that’s what you’re getting.” She nodded her head and was obviously suppressing a smile. She was happy. “Any more clarifications?” “Um, no sir. Thank you so much, Mr. Petrakis.” She was twisting her fingers again. I realized that it was her habit. I nodded my head, and raised a hand, to dismiss her. I saw her strode out of my office. She was about to open the door, when she turned around and looked at me again. “Mr. Petrakis. I know it’s not my concern, but I overheard a group of men in the comfort room. They mentioned about agreeing to bid for the Japan Shipyard, only if you will increase their share.” “What!” I stood up, so surprise by her statement. “Are you sure?” “Yes. They said, that you wanted to get hold of the shipyard because of the gold bars hidden underneath it. ” “Damn those moneysucking idiots!” I groaned angrily. All the time and effort I made to have them agree to bid on that shipyard, and all the while, they only wanted an increase in their share. Bloody hell! “Um, that’s all I’ve heard… and… and… I have to go.” She immediately spun around and left. Later that evening, I had dinner with Kendra and my family in one of New York’s finest restaurants, where, delicious international seafood cuisine were served. I realized, it was a very bad idea for Kendra to meet my family. What the hell! She was trying too hard to impress my family. She manipulated the conversation, talking about fashion shows, signature bags, shoes, dresses, jewelries and even money, jets and lamborghinis. Dammit! She even gave the impression that we were seriously having an affair. I had to get rid of her, I knew her kind. She was the type who would drag me to the altar. “We met in a party. The moment our eyes met, I knew, he was the right man for me.” Kendra held my hand. “Eros is very charming, romantic and so caring.” “Wow! Are you sure you’re talking about my brother?” Chloe, my younger sister frowned at Kendra. “Chloe, stop it.” Mom scolded Chloe. “Your brother can be very romantic too, like your dad.” “I think I just spotted Iñigo entered the restaurant with a beautiful blond.” I lied. I knew my sister would freak out by the mention of Iñigo’s name. Iñigo was her ex- boyfriend who broke up with her during her sixteenth birthday, almost four years ago. “Really? You’re kidding me, right?” Chloe was panicking, her face turned pale. “No. He’s coming right behind you.” I teased her. I knew she would hate me, later. She turned around and saw no trace of Iñigo behind her. Then she glared at me and mouthed the words. Asshole! “Chloe! That’s a very bad word, so unlady- like.” My father, Markos Petrakis, said firmly at my sister. “What? I haven’t said anyting.” Chloe rolled her eyes.

=Continuation= “Ohhhh, I envy your family. Eros teasing Chloe, is so sweet. I wish I have a family like yours.” Kendra said, then suddenly she hugged me. “Eros, I can’t help it anymore, I have something to say to you, right here, right now. This is very important.” She wiped some moisture in her eyes with a table napkin. “What? Are you…. Oh God!” I was so confused. My heart pounded so fast. What is she trying to tell me? And why is she crying? I looked at my mom, my dad and Chloe. They looked so pale, waiting for Kendra to finish what she was saying. “I’m really happy that your family is here, and they will hear what I’m going to say to you.” “Kendra. What are you trying to say?” I was getting so annoyed of her being such a drama queen. She inhaled deeply, and tears were pooling in her eyes. “Eros, this will be the first time that I’m going to say this. I’ve never said this to any man. I’ll say this to you, only you. I swear. And I want your family to hear this.” She paused and shifted her gaze from each member of my family, then back to me, slowly and very dramatic. “I LOVE YOU EROS, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH, WITH ALL MY HEART.” I was choked on the wine, I was drinking, and coughed vigorously. She loves me? Damn it. Love was not part of our arrangement, when we started having sex. She was crossing the line! It was just plain SEX between us, no emotions or feelings involved. And what the hell was she thinking, declaring her love in front of my family, what was she trying to do? “That’s it? What else?” “I love you. Doesn’t it mean anything to you? You’re the only man I’ve ever said that to.” Kendra’s eyes narrowed and her eyebrows were pulled together in a crease. Actually, I felt so relieved, as well as my family. I knew we were thinking the same. We thought she would say, that she was pregnant. Thanks goodness, she wasn’t. She gave us a fright. “Well, what do you want me to say?” I asked her. “I want you to admit your feelings for me, too. Tell me honey, do you love me too?” Her voice purred like a kitten. I looked directly at her eyes, and gave her my very honest answer. “NO.”

Wow! I like his answer, so straightforward. Tanx Meshack for d update. It's so sweet of you. Don't keep us waiting for too long though.

Gud story....pls update it fast oh

Chapter Nine (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here-- “You don’t need to hide anything from me. I love you. I love you. Not that flirty girl I met at the farm house… not that sex machine I lived with at the prison… you. Every flaw every quirk… I love everything about you - everything that makes you… you. I love you, Maggie.” – Glenn to Maggie, Walking Dead. Jade’s POV “Wow! Congrats sis. You made it.” Sapphire exclaimed with glee, when I told her that I got hired by Mr. Petrakis. “Yeah. I still couldn’t believe it. I have to pinch myself several times. Finally I got a new job!” I put my bag on the couch and removed my wig. Then I combed my ginger long hair with my hand. “Did he give you the same offer?” Her eyes widened excitedly. “Yup, he did. He’s a man with honor.” I smiled from ear to ear, sharing the good news to my sister. “YES! Yes! Hahaha!” Saph shrieked with happiness, jumping up and down. Then I joined her. We were just like kids, leaping together with our hands clasped, then hugging each other. We couldn’t help it, we were overjoyed. It was like hitting the jackpot. “What’s going on?” My mom came out of the bedroom. “What’s the good news?” “Oh mom! You wouldn’t believe it. Jade got hired by a billionaire.” “A billionaire?” My mom’s eyes widened. “Who?” “Eros Petrakis, mom. His family owns a huge shipping company.” I informed my mother, Ruby Collins. “Oh my God! He’s Markos Petrakis’ son! He’s extremely rich and very influential.” “You know him mom?” “Of course. Their family is one of the richest in the world and very aristocratic. They were often featured in forbes magazine. I’ve also read some rumors that Eros Petrakis is not an easy person to work with. He’s a perfectionist, an evil in the workplace, and known to be very strict. He’s a workaholic like his father.” “Yup, that could be right. He seemed so reserved, very formal and so unreachable. I’ve never even seen him smile. If you’ve seen him in his office, you could tell that he only thinks about the business and money.” I suddenly burst out laughing, thinking of Eros Petrakis. “What’s so funny about that?” Saph asked, observing my reaction. “He suddenly fell asleep when he interviewed me.” “That’s so weird, why?” Mom asked curiously. I shrugged my shoulders and laughed aloud. “He was probably bored with your story.” Saph tried to guess what really happened. Then they started laughing at me. “Maybe, but I think he was just so tired. I was trying to wake him up, but he was sleeping so peacefully. So, I decided to wake up him up, the same way I did with dad.” “Oh NO! Don’t tell me you sang I Will Always Love You? Hahaha!” Saph’s eyes widened then suddenly, she burst out laughing. “My goodness, Jade. Why did you do that?”

Hey Meshack, thanks for d updates, but actually I was expecting more. It's short, but who am I to complain, we all av our lives outside d internet. You r doing a very great job here, ur writing skill is way out of ds world nd ur diction, almost perfect. Even without editing I didn't see any mistake which screams that u r really good. Thumbs up, u r going places, don't keep us waiting 4 too long though.

=Continuation= “I don’t have a choice. Or else, he would sleep till morning. I already waited six hours to have that interview.” “Sis, you are incredible! I really admire you, you are the best. Hahaha! So you woke him up with your screeching voice.” My face flushed. I suddenly felt so embarrass for what I did. I wished I didn’t sing. Eros Petrakis might think that I was so stupid. Darn. “Yup, and now, I regretted doing it.” I know I sang like a badly drank karaoke singer in pubs, but I loved music, and I loved to sing. But it seemed like music didn’t love me back. I used to sing in the shower and poured my heart out, every morning before going to school. It was my way of waking dad also. Yes, he would wake up because of my horrible voice.I became his alarm clock. My family often teased me about it that it became a household joke. I had to at that time, so we wouldn’t be late. Every weekday, he would drop me in our school before he headed to his work. “But you need to be very careful Jade. It’s not easy to work with a man like Eros Petrakis, so authoritative and high handed. You have to be very patient.” “I know. That’s what I thought too. He thinks he’s so high and mighty. He was even so rude and arrogant when I first saw him in the coffee shop.” My shoulders slumped all of a sudden. I remembered when we collided outside the coffee shop, he never apologized and didn’t accept his fault. Then, in his office, when I was hired, he dismissed me abruptly. “But, you will be getting a triple of your salary at the coffee shop.” Saph butted in. “That’s a lot of money. Just look at the bright side, Dee.” “That much? What exactly is your job?” Mom got very suspicious all of a sudden. “Yes mom. I… I’ll be working as his… er… his… um…” “His what? Don’t tell me you’re going to sell your soul to the devil.” Mom’s voice started to rise. “What? What are you talking about, mom. Of course not.” “She was hired to prepare his coffee.” Saph interrupted. “To prepare his coffee? So you are his secretary?” “Actually, no. I’ll be preparing his coffee only.” “What? I don’t understand. I’m sure he has a secretary or personal assistant to do that. How come he’ll be paying you with that big amount? That’s impossible.” “Mom, calm down. I’ll tell you what really happened.” I explained everything to my mom, about Mr. Petrakis’ visit at the coffee shop, his likeness for the cup of espresso I made and his unexpected offer. “So, that’s it.” “He must really enjoy the coffee you prepared. Any sane person wouldn’t offer that, no matter how rich he is. When are you going to start working for him?” “Tomorrow. I have to be there in his apartment at exactly five in the morning.” “That early? Why in his apartment? I thought you’ll be working in his office.” Mom asked too many questions. She was so curious and worried too. I sighed. “He probably drinks his coffee at five a.m., when he wakes up.” “Wow, an early riser billionaire.” Saph giggled. “He’s very handsome too, and a hottie. I guess, he jogs every morning, or do exercises like sit-ups, push-ups and bench press.” I shrugged my shoulders. “He’s no prince charming, Saph.”

Uhmmm... Reading dis story takes me 2 anoda world....

Continue plsss

==Continuation== I disagree. Prince charming has flaws as well. No one’s perfect, Dee.” “O-kayyy… whatever.” “How long will you be working with him?” Mom continued asking me questions. “I don’t know mom, he didn’t say anything about it. We don’t even have a contract.” Mom shook her head in dismay. “So what is your job description, his housekeeper?” “Er… um… sort of.” “You were a cashier in the coffee shop. I was expecting you to work the same job.” I strode towards my mom, who was sitting on an armchair. I sat on the arm rest and hugged her. “Mom, it doesn’t matter anymore. Just think of the money we’ll be getting. We will have enough and we could save more. I don’t mind being a housekeeper. It’s an honest job.” It was true. We would have enough money for my mom’s supplements and medical expenses, pay the bills and house rental, buy the food that we used to eat when dad was still healthy and alive, buy new dresses for mom and Sapphire and even dine in a restaurant once in a while. With the extra money, I could also save for college. I would probably enroll in an online degree program and work at the same time. “You are so kind, Jade. I’m so lucky to have you as my daughter. You shouldered my responsibility of taking care of our family. If only, I could help you…” My mom started to cry again because of self pity. A scene which I often avoided. “Shhh… mom, please stop crying. I love you and Sapphire. Taking care of you both is not a burden. Don’t worry, I can handle this. I’ll do my job well, and make Mr. Petrakis happy with his coffee. Mom, please stop crying, it’s not good for your heart. We should be glad that I have a job now, right?” I wiped the tears on my mom’s cheeks with the tissue paper that Sapphire handed on me. “Right. We are here for you, mom. We love you so much. You gave up your job before, to look after us, now is our turn to take care of you.” Saph hugged us. “Hey, why are we crying, we should celebrate. Let’s order some Pizza. My treat this time.” “Really? You have money?” “Er… no. You pay now, but promise, I’ll pay you next week, after the cosplay contest. I’ll be dressing up as Yuna.” Saph’s lips twisted in embarrassment, while her hand was scratching her head. I shook my head and just smiled at my sister. I was convinced that she would win in the cosplay event, because she often did. The following morning, I arrived at Eros Petrakis’ apartment, a quarter before five. After I passed the interrogations from the fully loaded security guards at the lobby, they finally let me in. I was escorted by a man in black suit, who looked like Rick Grimes of The Walking Dead. His eyes were appraising my appearance openly, from my worn out brown leather boots, to my green loose dress with red cherries on it, and then to my big black wig. He was looking at me strangely as if I came from another planet. I smiled at him, and he smiled back, but suddenly turned his back on me. It was just so awkward. An older woman opened the door of the penthouse. She introduced herself as Doris Kelly. She was in her late fifties, single, and Irish. She managed the whole apartment of Eros Petrakis. Eros Petrakis’ apartment happened to be a very luxurious Hotel penthouse located at Fifth Avenue on the Upper East Side of New York. The 58-storey building was the property of the Petrakis family. The penthouse occupied the entire 56th, 57th, and 58th floors. The entire apartment contained 16 rooms, including 5 en- suite bedrooms and six and half bathrooms, plus 4 terraces with sweeping views of Manhattan. The living spaces were grand with 23-foot-high ceilings, large windows and architectural details. A private elevator connected all three floors, and the home had a separate guest suite and staff residences. The place had a private swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, a theatre room, a library, a music room, etc.

Nic one

*continues* I was speechless when I stepped inside the penthouse. It was so beautiful and the view outside was breathtaking. The color black and brown dominated the room. The black sofa was so elegant and looked so comfortable. The brown carpet was spotless, that I was afraid to step on it, in case I had dirt on my boots. The wooden furnitures looked so glossy and expensive, that if I touched it, my fingers would surely leave a mark on it. Doris showed me the kitchen. I was really amazed. It was so huge and was fully equipped with expensive appliances. The full height refrigerator- freezer, gas range, rotisserie, 30-inch wall oven, warming drawer and double espresso machine was embedded in the kitchen cabinetry. Everything in the kitchen was made of stainless steel. “You like it?” Doris smiled at me. “Yeah… I couldn’t believe that this huge kitchen caters only one person.” “Well, that’s the privilege of the rich.” “Lucky him. My family and I rented a very small apartment, I think, only one fourth of the size of this kitchen.” “Really? The Petrakis family owns the building. Mr. Eros could occupy the whole 58 floors, if he wants too.” “Wow. Our apartment would look like a rat’s home compared to this.” Doris just smiled at me. “I’ll see you later. I’m going back to the staff residence for a while. Just get yourself oriented with the kitchen. You can also check the boxes of coffee in the cabinet below the coffee machine.” “Okay, thanks Miss Kelly.” “Oh! Just call me Doris.” “Er… um… sure, Doris. By the way, is Mr. Petrakis already awake?” I checked the time in my wristwatch, it was already 5:15 a.m. “Hmm, I don’t think so.” “How will I know if he wants his coffee?” “You will know. There’s an intercom in every room. Just stay here in the kitchen, okay? Have to go, now.” “Okay, see yah.” The moment I was alone, I checked the cabinets. I saw different types of coffee. Mostly very expensive and imported coffee beans, granules and powder. I shook my head and went to get something inside my bag. A zip loc of coffee beans. It was the same coffee beans that Mrs. Chang’s coffee shop used. I bought it from the supplier, before I went home yesterday. After an hour, I was still in the kitchen waiting for Mr. Petrakis to wake up and ask for his coffee. I checked my time, it was six fifteen. Where is he? Is he still on his bed? Another hour had passed, but still no sign of Mr. Petrakis. Oh God, I feel so sleepy waiting for him to ask for his coffee. I woke up at three in the morning, and now, my eyes won’t stay open. I checked the time in my wristwatch every ten minutes… seven twenty… seven thirty… eight o’clock…. Then my eyes suddenly refused to open anymore. I fell asleep on my seat, and my head was on the counter table.

I was dreaming… of a man, looming over me. His face was just a mere inches from mine. He smelled of after shaving cream, soap and musk. Hmm… pure male scent. His eyes were filled with passion and carnal cravings, undressing me, slowly, with his eyes…. Suddenly my eyes opened and there he was, the man in my dream, looming over me, with intense anger in his eyes. “Where’s my coffee, Miss Collins! I’ve been calling you in the intercom, three times already. I don’t tolerate my employees sleeping while at work!” Eros Petrakis curtly said. ***Don’t forget to comment and share to your friends.*** Kindly feel free to help me edit this chapter. I’m so busy.

U r doing great job dear

Wow! Really nice update, thanks for it. Pls could u update some more in d evening, this is my best story nd I notice it's d one u update most slowly, considering d fact dat u started it b4 d others. I maintain that u r one terrific writer, nd I don't know how to edit, I would av loved to help u.

Chapter Ten (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here— "I love you Elena, and it is because I love you that I can't be selfish with you. And why you can't know this, I don't deserve you . . . but my brother does. God I wish you didn't have to forget this . . . but you do." – Damon Salvatore to Elena Gilbert, VAMPIRE DIARIES by L.J. Smith Eros’s POV F**kg Sh*t! I groaned when I received another kick on my thigh. I was thrown off balance and landed flat on the floor. Damn this big kid! My opponent was a previous Mushin Mixed Martial Arts Champion, Dick Reed. He was really good, so good. Donovan invited him to be my sparring partner this morning. Kickboxing was a stand- up combat sports. I practiced it for self- defense, general fitness and as a contact sport. Donovan, who was a previous kickboxing champion, was my mentor. He taught me everything he knew about it. I never experienced joining any kickboxing competition and was not interested of doing such. I had other priorities in life and many people relied on me. I was contented of inviting professional kickboxers, once in a while, to be sparring partners. We did it, thrice a week, early morning. I sat down and slowly stood up, conserving my energy. I faced my opponent and through right timing, I whipped a jab on his face, again and again, until he became frustrated and more aggressive. He made several counter attack on me but I evaded. I was dancing around him, landing jab after jab. The technique to distract, counter attack, unbalance and gauge the opponent’s reaction before applying a powerful strike. Then, I made a swift glance to the wall clock, it was already seven a.m. time for my coffee… I faced my opponent squarely, who already looked upset. In a speed of lightning, I gave him a fast jab that demoralized him and allowed myself to execute powerful follow-ups with my other weapons, superior speed punches and kicks. Instantly, my opponent fell on the floor, beaten. After fifteen minutes, I was in my bedroom, removing my clothes, to take a shower. At the same time, I was watching at my 84-inch Internet TV that was also connected to the CCTV of the entire building. I saw Jade in the kitchen, sitting there all alone. She was probably very sleepy because her head kept on falling off her shoulders. I grinned and went directly to the bathroom. I removed the towel on my hips and turned the shower. I let the cold water ran all over my body for a while before I shampooed my hair. I recalled seeing Jade entered the building earlier. My eyes suddenly focused on her. I didn't understand why I found everything about her, amusing. I was at the back corner of the lobby talking with Dick Reed, the kickboxer. She obviously didn’t notice me, because she was focused on answering the questions of the security guards. She looked like a scared rabbit surrounded by big wolves. I immediately called the head security of the building, Rod Brent. “Cut the interrogation, you’re scaring the girl. Let her in, now.” In a flash, Jade was escorted by Rod, in going up to my penthouse. Finally, I was able to sleep well last night. Our family dinner ended early because mom had a headache. I knew it was just her alibi. She obviously noticed the tension that escalated between Kendra and me.

*continues* I knew I hurt Kendra’s feelings. I have to. She knew from the very start that falling in love was not part of our deal. She asked me a question, and I just answered her honestly. I remembered the mixed emotions that played on Kendra’s face when I said NO. She suddenly looked so pale, despite her heavy make up. I thought she was about to cry and get hysterical. But, she cleared her throat and lifted her chin up. She appeared fully recovered. Then, she gave us her practiced smile, like she always did in her print ads. “It’s okay, Eros. You will love me sooner or later.” She confidently said, with her thick eyelashes battering on me. You’re wrong. My brain answered. I chose not to argue with her statement. I didn’t want to pursue the issue anymore. I took Kendra home. The truth that I didn’t love her, had no effect on her behaviour towards me. She still clung like a leech! And this time, she became more aggressive. This should stop before she will expect too much from me. She crossed the bounderies we set in our relationship. She even looks determine to take it to a higher level. “Kendra, we should stop seeing each other. It’s time to part ways.” “Why? You found another f*cking buddy? HA! Men don’t discard me, Eros. I do. I'll be the one to call a halt, not you. Remember that.” She suddenly went out of the car and banged the door forcefully. Damn, this is my favorite car. I gritted my teeth, when she left. She was furious. Good! It was better that way. I hope, she would leave me alone now. I was watching Jade on the TV screen, sleeping. She looked so tired. I continued observing her while I put on my white Tshirt and trousers. Yeah, I pitied her, waking up so early to come here for work. But, that was her job. She was well paid for it. Work should be valued. It was a blessing and a commitment that one should take seriously. I may be rich. But still, I rose early, worked hard and stroke a business opportunity. That was my formula for success. I checked the time on my watch, it was eight a.m. I went out of my room and strode directly to the kitchen. Then, I saw Jade, sleeping quietly. Her arms pillowed her head on the counter table. I observed her for a while, studying her face while sleeping. My thoughts suddenly drifted to the past. No. She couldn’t be her. I went to the fridge and took some eggs and sausages. Yup, I cooked my own breakfast, sometimes, dinner. I enjoyed the liberty of scanning the fridge and chose my own meal. I was a big man with a big appetite, besides I was conscious of what I ate. That was part of keeping fit and healthy. After I toasted some bread, and fried the eggs and the sausages, I put the food on the kitchen table. My breakfast was ready, except for my coffee. I was really anticipating the taste of my coffee since I woke up. I looked at Jade, and she was still sleeping peacefully. I went closer to her to wake her. Then, I noticed the hi- tech CCTV camera blinked with a faint screeching sound and moved slowly to focus. Damn! “Where’s my coffee, Miss Collins! I’ve been calling you in the intercom, three times already.” I lied. “I don’t tolerate my employees sleeping while at work!

Lolz

Nyc one,cnt plsss

Her eyes suddenly open wide. Shock and terror was visible on her face. She immediately scrambled off her seat and rubbed her eyes, fixing her hair and her dress. “I… I’m sorry, Mr. Petrakis. That won’t happen again… promise.” “Make sure you keep your word, because next time I’ll caught you sleeping, you will be automatically fired.” “Er… I won’t do that again, sir… I swear.” She was flushing with embarassment. I nodded and went to the kitchen table to sit down. “I want my coffee now.” “Yes… yes sir.” She replied and ran towards the coffee machine. I started eating my breakfast while waiting for my coffee. After about three minutes, Jade put my coffee in front of me. The aroma of the coffee was glorious and delicious. It gave me a very pleasurable feeling. Jade’s POV “Sit.” Huh? What did he say? “Er… what, sir?” I asked him again, making sure that I heard right. “I said, sit.” He said again, pointing at the chair in front of him. Hmph! I suddenly remembered dad saying Sit! Doggy, sit! When he was trying to teach, Shaggy, my dog to sit down. Just like an obedient dog, I sat in front of him, in the kitchen table. “Eat.” He said, pushing a plate of two toasted bread, an egg and two sausages. My temper suddenly rose. He was talking to me in monosyllables, like I was a dog, or a toddler. I thought he was so smart and studied in an exclusive school. Where’s his manners? “No, thank you. I… I’m not hungry. I already had my breakfast.” He suddenly put down his spoon and fork, then glared at me. “And what time was that?” “Um… around 3:30 a.m.” “It’s already 8 o’clock Miss Collins. Stop talking and eat.” He firmly said and continued eating his breakfast. I slowly took the spoon and fork. I felt so awkward, having breakfast with my boss. I looked at the food… hmmm… it smelled so delicious and my stomach suddenly gurgled. This was really embarrassing. Mr. Petrakis caught me sleeping in my first day of work. I wondered why Doris didn’t wake me up when she cook his breakfast. I ate my breakfast with gusto. I didn’t realize I was so hungry. I was halfway done when I noticed him watching me, while sipping his coffee. With a swift glance, I looked at him then on his plate. It was empty. This is getting so weird. Why am I eating breakfast with my boss? "You should eat plenty, you are so thin. You can't perform your job well with an empty stomach." Preach! Oh my goodness, and he was even looking at me like I was a stray pet, eating his scraps. I didn't have a choice but to stay quiet. He was my boss, and I was at his mercy. I need the job or else, my family and I would starve. But - if only... if only I had a choice... Be calm Jade... take a deep breath. I said to myself. I was surprised when he suddenly stood up and said. “When you’re done. You can go.” What? I’m done here? My eyebrows lifted up in surprise. “Sleep early tonight, so you won’t be sleeping at work tomorrow.” “Er… yes, sir.” He nodded and immediately left me alone in the kitchen.

Lynne are you sure? So why is the story really coming slow nd short too? Well, maybe u r right, but I'm amused.

Lynne are you sure? So why is the story really coming slow nd short too? Well, maybe u r right, but I'm amused. Did u see it sumwhere else?

Well, Meshack, copied or not copied, I maintain that u r doing a great job here, though itz hard to believe u r not d writer anyway. This is my best story on this site nd I get angry sumtyms bcos u post it really slowly.

Chapter Eleven (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here- ". . . my breathing suddenly went still. I looked at Jamie, then up to the ceiling and around the room, doing my best to keep my composure, then back to Jamie again. She smiled at me and I smiled at her and all I could do was wonder how I'd ever fallen in love with a girl like Jamie Sullivan." - Landon Carter, from the movie/book: A Walk To Remember by Nicholas Sparks Jade's POV For six months, I worked as Eros Petrakis coffee girl, everyday. My daily routine was - sleepwalking at three a.m. - woke up in the shower - breakfast at three thirty - and ran to the nearest bus station at four. I had to make sure that I arrived at his apartment before five. Yup, it was a dream job, a very easy one with a bigger salary. I only had to make coffee for a billionaire. Mr. Petrakis asked for his coffee once in the morning, but in different time. Mostly, when he woke up at five. I served his coffee either in his study room, where he was always so engrossed with his work, and wouldn't even bother to glance at me everytime I entered the room. Or in the breakfast table, before he would leave to join his fellow kickboxers in the gym at the lower ground floor of the building. Sometimes, after he had showered, shaved and changed in his business suit - before he would leave for his office. He either ate in the kitchen when he was cooking, or in the breakfast table, when a chef cook for him. It really depends on his mood. A few times, he skipped breakfast and only wanted his coffee. But there were times also, when Doris would text me to inform that I wouldn't have to report for work. Mr. Petrakis would be gone for days or a week, because he was out of the country, or in conference in another state, or have a business deal in another continent, etc. And me - I tried to be invisible to him. I stayed at the staff residences with Doris and the rest of the household help, after I made his coffee. The staffs were not allowed to be seen by Mr. Petrakis, unless being summoned. So everyone should keep out of his way when he was in his apartment. Every day that I spent in the staff residences, I learned a lot about Eros Petrakis - his likes and dislikes, his mood, his rules, his negative and positive traits - and even about his escapades, his past girlfriends, his family and their businesses and a lot more. I couldn't help it, the staffs fed me with too much information. He was a perfectionist, wanted everything in his apartment organized, neatly arranged, clean and spotless. Most of all, he didn't like noise. So, the whole apartment was like an empty church, very solemn. He was also a workaholic. According to Doris, he often spent time working in his study. Sometimes, he just slept on his chair the whole night, and then, started working again when he woke up. "I don't know why he is working too hard. He is already mega-rich. His parents are always travelling around the world and his sister, Chloe, always goes shopping and partying with friends. He should join them sometimes and delegate some of his work." Doris said. "Yeah. Maybe he is working on confidential matters, that's why he just can't delegate it to anyone." "Hmm... maybe, you're right. I heard from Donovan that he's funding scientists in research for vaccine on various diseases." "Really?" I was surprised by the news.

Chapter Eleven (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here- ". . . my breathing suddenly went still. I looked at Jamie, then up to the ceiling and around the room, doing my best to keep my composure, then back to Jamie again. She smiled at me and I smiled at her and all I could do was wonder how I'd ever fallen in love with a girl like Jamie Sullivan." - Landon Carter, from the movie/book: A Walk To Remember by Nicholas Sparks Jade's POV For six months, I worked as Eros Petrakis coffee girl, everyday. My daily routine was - sleepwalking at three a.m. - woke up in the shower - breakfast at three thirty - and ran to the nearest bus station at four. I had to make sure that I arrived at his apartment before five. Yup, it was a dream job, a very easy one with a bigger salary. I only had to make coffee for a billionaire. Mr. Petrakis asked for his coffee once in the morning, but in different time. Mostly, when he woke up at five. I served his coffee either in his study room, where he was always so engrossed with his work, and wouldn't even bother to glance at me everytime I entered the room. Or in the breakfast table, before he would leave to join his fellow kickboxers in the gym at the lower ground floor of the building. Sometimes, after he had showered, shaved and changed in his business suit - before he would leave for his office. He either ate in the kitchen when he was cooking, or in the breakfast table, when a chef cook for him. It really depends on his mood. A few times, he skipped breakfast and only wanted his coffee. But there were times also, when Doris would text me to inform that I wouldn't have to report for work. Mr. Petrakis would be gone for days or a week, because he was out of the country, or in conference in another state, or have a business deal in another continent, etc. And me - I tried to be invisible to him. I stayed at the staff residences with Doris and the rest of the household help, after I made his coffee. The staffs were not allowed to be seen by Mr. Petrakis, unless being summoned. So everyone should keep out of his way when he was in his apartment. Every day that I spent in the staff residences, I learned a lot about Eros Petrakis - his likes and dislikes, his mood, his rules, his negative and positive traits - and even about his escapades, his past girlfriends, his family and their businesses and a lot more. I couldn't help it, the staffs fed me with too much information. He was a perfectionist, wanted everything in his apartment organized, neatly arranged, clean and spotless. Most of all, he didn't like noise. So, the whole apartment was like an empty church, very solemn. He was also a workaholic. According to Doris, he often spent time working in his study. Sometimes, he just slept on his chair the whole night, and then, started working again when he woke up. "I don't know why he is working too hard. He is already mega-rich. His parents are always travelling around the world and his sister, Chloe, always goes shopping and partying with friends. He should join them sometimes and delegate some of his work." Doris said. "Yeah. Maybe he is working on confidential matters, that's why he just can't delegate it to anyone." "Hmm... maybe, you're right. I heard from Donovan that he's funding scientists in research for vaccine on various diseases." "Really?" I was surprised by the news.

*continues* "Yeah. He's pretty generous." The staffs were very friendly and seemed very happy with their job. I was sure they were well compensated too. There were six of them living in the staff residences area of the building, excluding Doris. Eugene and Kate Park, were middle-aged couple. Eugene was the chef, and Kate helped Doris organized the whole apartment. They lived in the staff residences area of the building. The rest of the household staffs, were Arthur, Jim, Charlotte and Almira. After I was done with my work at eight in the morning, I stayed at the staff residences until three in the afternoon. Why? Because of the high speed internet in the building. Nope, not for Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. I was taking an online college degree program in Business Administration, good for thirty six months in one of the most affordable colleges in New York. I got enrolled five months ago, when I received my first salary. The school was very accomodating and catered to working students. One early morning, I was still in the bus when Doris called me. "Jade, where are you? Mr. Petrakis wants his coffee now." "What?" I looked at my wristwatch, it was still four fifteen. "It's still too early." "He was in bad mood when he arrived last night from Russia. He even asked for his coffee. Since you were not here, I made it for him." Mr. Petrakis was gone for more than a week. Doris said, he went to Russia for a very important business deal. Well, it was a grand vacation for me - not to wake up too early in the morning. "Did he like it?" I heard Doris heaved a sigh. "Nope. He just took a little sip and pushed it away. Then he made his usual series of not too pleasant swear words." "OH!" The devil. "Hurry up, okay? He's waiting." "I'm in the bus right now. I'll be there in about fifteen minutes." "All right, I'll tell him." At exactly four thirty, I arrived in his apartment. "Mr. Petrakis wants his coffee to be served in his bedroom." Doris said the moment she opened the door. "Oh! Er... okay, I will." A sudden shiver of nervousness ran down my spine at the thought of being in his bedroom - me and him - alone. I didn't like the thought of being in a bedroom with any man. I knocked on his bedroom door after five minutes. When he didn't answer, I turned the doorknob, verryyy... slowly.... When the door was slightly open, I peeped inside. The lights inside the room were dimmed, but everything could be seen clearly. It was a huge room, with the colors gray and white dominated the whole room. The interior design was modern and very masculine. There were floor to ceiling glass windows with the amazing panoramic view of the city. I opened the door wider and went inside. I instantly saw Mr. Petrakis sprawled on a kingsize bed with white lenins and pillows. My legs suddenly trembled and my pupils dilated. Oh God... He's naked! He was sleeping on his stomach peacefully. His face turned to the side where his arm and leg rested upwards. A white blanket draped his buttocks. His back, thighs and legs were bare. I noticed my hands were shaking. The cup and saucer that I was holding even rattled noisily. "Er... um... Good morning, Mr. Petrakis, your... your coffee..." Suddenly he stirred, then peeled off the blanket from his hips. Then I heard, the breaking sound of cup and saucer on the tiled floor, echoed the whole room noisily.

Wat is going 2 happen nw ooo

Uhmmm susan.. Dis one u blogged 3 comments jez bcos some1 said d story was copied na wa oooo... Sha take am easy... Its jez a story... Well,either copied or not.. Its none of my bizness.. @ least its helping me get busy.. Whoever d original writer is....is doing a very good job

Trouble for u today Miss Jade. Thanks for d update Meshack.

Never mind me Tennie, I know itz not his story, hez just copying and pasting what's not his work nd claiming ownership. Just didn't want to make him feel bad nd stop updating.

#Johnson, the truth is that..... Whatever we post here is non of ya business. We really trying to build up our site!! If ya feel not reading any! Please ya can skip and read other stories! Ya talking re really qetting me angry!! I wont listen to whatever ya saying because there somethinq left in my head!! And i know itz gonna last for so long! And there on amount of word ya gonna say THATS reall gonna make me feel bad!!

Lol... So ren't u gonna post anoda? Abeg Meshack i wana knw d end o

Chapter Twelve (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here— “A real girl isn't perfect and a perfect girl isn't real.” ― Harry Styles Ero’s POV Holy Sh*t! That bitch really blew my deal in Russia! How would I know that she was the latest girlfriend of one of the Federal Cabinet Ministers. The agreement to establish a complex program to advance production of the shipbuilding industry on the market had been approved already by the Russian Government. It envisaged the establishment of three shipping centers - Western, Northern and Far Eastern centers - in the next two years. Petrakis International Holding Company wanted that project. I wanted that project, so badly. I wanted to win the partnership with the Russian Government in putting up the three shipyards.Closed. Signed. Sealed. But, that bitch, Kendra Packer ruined everything we’d worked hard to win it. How I would love to tear her into pieces, right now. Her latest lover was the most influential Russian Minister and my good friend. He offered us to bid for the shipyard project five months ago. He said, we were their priority because of our company’s reputation of being the world’s top shipping company - in reliability, durability, workmanship and hi tech designs. Another factor was, because of our friendship. The trust and respect that we had were incomparable. But, the minister’s statement changed all of a sudden. He became very hesitant in awarding the project to us. His usual very accomodating manner became sour. He became distant and evasive.Our 101% chances of winning the said project went down to nil. I was certain Kendra had something to do with it. She smirked at me and held her head high arrogantly, during the Russian President’s party the other night. Then she clung on her lover’s arm and whispered something on his ear. Her lover, the minister, was obviously so besotted on her. I was in the bar to get a drink for a lady friend, when Kendra suddenly appeared behind me. “So, the great and almighty Eros Petrakis is here.” Kendra said in a shrilled voice. “Kendra.” I turned around and gave her a warning look. She was a hysterical woman and wouldn’t hesitate to create a scene in public. Yup, like she did, six months ago at the lobby of my residential building. She was screaming and became hysterical when my security guards wouldn’t let her in. She even slapped all my guards, including my head security, Rod Brent. I had instructed my guards to ban Kendra Packer in the building. She became a nuisance, calling me all the time, appearing in the office, and anywhere in public to humiliate me. She became scandalous and dragging my name in the tabloids - gossips and false write ups about us seriously dating and even engaged. She didn’t understand the meaning of the word NO. “You are a cold blooded bastard, Eros. You discarded me like a piece of sh*t. I’ll make sure that you will regret what you did to me.” She said in a soft voice, almost a whisper. Her eyes boldly met mine. “Never enter a battle of wits, unarmed, you will never win.” “Really? HA! Not this time, Eros. I’ll make sure that you won’t get that shipyard agreement. I know that mind of yours work. You want that project, like a hungry wolf.”

Mennh dis is too short, pls try and update more

Holy Jesus, I don't care what u post dude and I don't see anything wrong in my comment. I really don't care if u copy d story or nothing and looking at my comments since d beginning of dis story, all I've always done was encourage u. So I'm really suprised at u lashing out at me. Itz not lyk I insulted u or sumtin nd if u feel itz an insult 2 ur personality, I am truly sorry. I hate making people angry. Pls continue d story and don't take it to heart.

*continues* I raised my eyebrows with annoyance. “Kendra, such a pity little girl. I always thought of you as stupid. Now, I realize, you are a thousand-fold stupid than I thought. Why don’t you go back to prep school, at least your vocabulary will broaden and not limit to the word YES.” Yes, was her favourite word, especially on bed. “Assh*le.” She gritted her teeth and threw back her head. I winked at her and then turned around to go. “Eros...” I heard her calling me again. She suddenly appeared on my side, her hand touched my arm in a gentle caress. Her voice broke in a sob. “I’m sorry. I just miss you so badly... I still love you, Eros, so much. Please... let’s talk and work things out. I can help you get that shipyard project.” I frowned and moved a step backward. Her touch made me cringed. “Excuse me, I’m not that desperate. I want the shipyard project but with you as the side dish, no way, even if you are served in a golden platter.” I immediately left her. Her face turned bright red with fury. I tossed and turned, couldn’t get a good position on the bed. Besides, I was so bothered, thinking about the Russian project. I’d been away for more than a week. I had a workload of transactions waiting in my office, appointments, new deals, etc. Yeah... I missed New York. This was home for me. I missed my family, my office, the privacy and peacefulness of my apartment... and most of all... I missed my coffee. I remembered asking Doris a cup of coffee before I went to bed. I was so disappointed. She couldn’t perfect the taste of my espresso, just like Jade did. I wished Jade was here, to make me some coffee, so I could sleep well. Jade’s POV “Holy f*cking shit! What the hell are you doing?” Eros Petrakis glared at me angrily. His curt voice lashed at me. I stood paralyzed to where I was standing. My whole body felt numbed and trembled with fear. My boss looked like he was ready to murder me. Oh God! I was so stupid. I thought he was naked! But he was wearing white boxer shorts. The image of him naked in front of me almost gave me a heart attack. “Dammit! Go and get me another coffee. You are so clumsy. Get the hell out of here!” I was so stunned and sickened, I repeated what he said. “I... I will get another coffee... I’m... I’m sorry, sir. I’m so stupid and clumsy.” I swallowed the sob that rose in my throat. “I didn’t say stupid.” He said with quiet emphasis. Then I knelt down and picked the broken pieces on the floor. I was so worried because the broken cup and saucer were china wares and obviously cost a fortune. How am I going to pay this? My extra money is just enough for my tuition fee. “For Christ’s sake, don’t touch it!” His voice rose in volume, made me jolt with fright. I dropped the broken pieces on the floor again and immediately stood up. “Now, you are being stupid.” His voice grated harshly. Then he stood up and went towards me. I closed my eyes with fear, imagining the horrible things that Mr. Petrakis could do to me.

Pls cntn nw,i cnt wait 4 d nxt one

Nawa o! On xmas day and u ar giving us half chop, abeg I never belly full. Update more

Lizzy.. Na so i see am too o

***CONTINUES*** God help me... he’s going to wring my neck, or break my arm, or slap me, or... Then, I felt his hands lifted my hands. I instantly opened my eyes and saw him studying my fingers. “Look what you’ve done. You’ve cut your fingers.” His voice was stern without any vestige of sympathy. OH! My fingers were bleeding. One, two, three... Three cuts. Now, I felt the tingling pain. I started to panic. I hated blood. It reminded me of my dad, every time he had blood transfusion. I’m feeling, dizzy. I’m going to faint. “Come here.” His voice cut my reverie. He sighed with exasperation and then dragged me to his bathroom. I had no choice but to comply. I felt so weak to argue. My fingers were bleeding and the blood was dripping on the tiled floor. He opened the faucet and let the water ran on my cuts. Then he started scolding me like a child. “Haven’t your parents taught you not to touch a broken glass?” “Why are you so careless?” “Don’t ever touch a broken glass again, okay?” “You are acting first without thinking.” “I hope you will learn from this.” Blah... blah... blah... Oh God, he was my boss, not my father. He went out to get something and then returned in a minute with cotton, plaster, gauze and Neosporin. He wiped my hands with a paper towel. “Er... it’s okay. I can manage. This is only a scrape.” I pulled my hands away, but he grasped my wrists with his iron fists. “Behave. Stop acting like a child. This is not a scrape.” I was powerless to resist, so I stopped protesting and let him took care of my cuts. He made me sat down on the edge of an elegant bath tub. I looked up at him and felt embarrassed when my eyes collided on his V line abs. Oh my goodness! I swallowed tightly as he dropped down on his knees, in front of me and held my hands again. My heart jolted and a quiver surged through my veins. The tingling pain of the cuts in my fingers became a delicious tingling sensation, like a hundred thousand bolts of electricity that travelled all over my body. His touch was oddly soft and caressing on my fingers as he cleaned and covered my cuts. All the while, I kept on staring at his handsome features. He was more stunningly virile without his clothes on, totally male and devilishly gorgeous. I breathed a sigh of relief when finally he was done putting plasters in my cuts. I was about to get up when his hands held my thighs. I gasped, realizing a shiver of panic. “No, please... don’t.” “Dammit. You have a cut in your knee.

CHAPTER 13 Jade's POV "What happened to your fingers?" Sapphire asked the moment she arrived from school. "These are just small cuts. I dropped Mr. Petrakis' coffee this morning." "Oh! Let me guess. You dropped it in front of him." She took my hands and examined my fingers. "Yup." "And you picked the broken pieces with your fingers?" I nodded and Sapphire shook her head. "I freaked out, okay. He yelled at me, calling me clumsy, careless..." "And stupid." Saph added. "Well...um... " I wanted to tell Saph that Mr. Petrakis only called me stupid when I picked the broken pieces. But, never mind, it didn't matter anyway. "He needs a kick in the ass. I wish I'll be able to do that." "You wish." I laughed at her. "He's not an easy man to cross with. He can ruin you, us, in just a snap of his fingers." "He's ruthless." My mom butted in on our conversation when she came out of the kitchen. "Yeah, he fires his employees easily. I thought he was going to fire me this morning." I winced at the thought. We were living comfortably now that I was working with Mr. Petrakis. "Really? Thanks God he didn't. Christmas is coming and I'm already excited having turkey for dinner." Saph chuckled. "Thank your lucky star, Jade that he was not in the mood to fire you. Anyway, who attended your cuts? It's good that someone with a good soul took care of that." "Er...um... actually it was... " "Oh Dee! I forgot to tell you. I chatted with Joseph last night." Sapphire cut off my statement. My heart suddenly leap with unexplainable pleasure when she mentioned Joseph. "He said, he missed you. He can't understand why you don't want to talk to him. Whatever your reasons are, whether you're angry or not, he apologized." I heaved a sigh. "You know the real reason, Saph. I can't face him anymore." "Why? That's not something to be ashamed of. You're still the old Jade. Whatever happened, you have to move on." "Please, I don't want to talk about it now." I wished Saph would shut up. I didn't want to talk about the past. It seemed like it was just yesterday. The memories were still so fresh in my mind. "But Dee..." "Sapphire, stop it." Mom immediately scolded Saph. Sapphire exhaled heavily. "Okay fine. But Joseph sends his regards to you. He wanted to know where you are, so he could visit you. I told him you're in Indonesia.

Indonesia! What a sweet lie! Thanks for the updates Meshack. Pls don't keep us waiting for too long.

***CONTINUES*** In Indonesia? Doing what?" "He didn't ask anymore. He probably knew that I was lying." "Yeah, he's too smart to figure out that you lied." My mom said to Sapphire. She was setting the table for our dinner. "Anyway, he's in his second year in med school now." "Really? Good for him. It's his dream to become a doctor." I was so happy for Joseph. It was his advocation in life to help the poor. I was sure, he would be able to help more indigents once he became a doctor. "Yeah, and it was your dream to marry him, remember?" "Saph, don't make me mad at you. I can cut your allowance this week." "I'm just kidding, Dee. By the way, Joseph sends his love to you." Saph teased me. Love? I knew what kind of love he was talking about. A love for a sister. I always made sure that I slept at exactly eight thirty in the evening. I had to sleep early because everyday, I woke up at three a.m. to go to work. ♪ ♩♫ - I drove by all the places we used to hang out getting wasted I thought about our last kiss, how it felt the way you tasted And even though your friends tell me you're doing fine - ♪♩♫♭♮ I suddenly woke up at the sound of my phone's ring tone. Like a zombie, I sat down on my bed and peered at the wall clock. It was still ten o'clock in the evening. I groaned aloud. Who could this be? I took my phone from the bedside table, hardly opening my eyes. My brain refused to function, cobwebs were scattered in it. "Hello?" I said sleepily. "I want my coffee, now." Eros Petrakis snapped, his voice echoed in my ears. Then he hung up. Rude. I sprung my back on the bed. I remained immobile for two minutes and just stared at the ceiling. "Who's that?" My mom asked me when she saw me wide-awake. "My boss." Fifteen minutes later, I was running towards the bus stop. At exactly eleven o'clock. I served the coffee to Mr. Eros Petrakis in his study room. He didn't even bother to glance at me, when I put the coffee on his desk. He was so engrossed with his work. His eyes were focused at the screen of his laptop. That night, I slept in the penthouse. Yeah, I wished in one of the luxurious bedrooms, with soft comfy queen beds and aromatic candles. But, I was sleeping in the kitchen. My head was leaning on top of the counter table. I didn't disturb Doris anymore, because she was already asleep when I arrived at the penthouse, as well as the rest of the staffs. The following day, the same thing happened. Mr. Petrakis called me at ten in the evening. He had me running to the bus stop again. I was panting so hard when I arrived at the penthouse at eleven. Right, I slept in the kitchen again. On the third night, I had a headache from not having enough sleep in three consecutive nights. I tried to sleep during the day, but I found it hard. He called again at ten in the evening, same time. I couldn't run faster to the bus stop, my head throbbed. As expected, I missed the ten fifteen bus, so I waited for another fifteen minutes for the next one. The bus that I rode was moving so slow. It was already eleven thirty when I made Mr. Petrakis' coffee. I was in a hurry, so I decided to skip the usual heart artwork design on his coffee.

***CONTINUES*** You're late." He snapped at me, the moment I entered his study room. His eyes lifted from the screen of his laptop and glared at me. I froze. My head started to throb again and my heart pounded with fear. "I... I missed the ten o'clock bus sir and...er..." I stammered. Then I put his coffee on his desk. He looked at the coffee for a few seconds. One... two... three... then his eyes darkened dangerously as he glared at me. He lifted the cup to his lips and took a little sip. Then he put it down with a clang, rattling the cup and saucer. "This is the worse coffee that I've ever tasted." His lips twisted with distaste. A cold shiver suddenly ran down in my body. I felt like I was splashed with a bucket of cold water. Worse coffee? He didn't like the coffee? My God, I'm in deep trouble. "I made it well, sir. I swear, I used the same coffee beans and... and..." "It's not the same... not anymore." He replied sharply. "But, I measured everything well, the water, the coffee... the time..." "You know what, you're not only clumsy, you're also stupid. You have no sense of time. I called you at exactly ten o'clock and you arrived at eleven thirty. You came here too late. I don't tolerate late employees. Do you hear me, Miss Collins?" I wanted to scream at him so loud and curse him back to hell, where he belonged. I wished I had a magical power to turn him into a snake! "Y... yes sir." I bit my lips to control my sob. My headache became worse. It was throbbing with pain. "Go! Get me another coffee. Do it perfectly or you're fired." He said harshly. My tears suddenly fell down on my cheeks. He was a monster, so rude and evil. "I... I quit." I said softly, almost a whisper. "What?" He snapped at me again. "I quit. I can't bear working with you anymore, Mr. Petrakis. You're so rude. I have feelings too and I'm human, like you. You're treating me like a slave that you just snapped at..." "Shut up! Don't you dare lecture me, woman. If you want to quit, then quit. I don't want your damn coffee and I don't want to see your face again. Get out! Now!" Eros POV Damn, damn, dammit! What have I done? Maybe this was a good idea after all. It would stop me from thinking about her. She was not my type. She was out of my league. She was a nerd, old fashioned, unsophisticated and malnourished. I was insane, asking her to come to my penthouse every night. The truth was, I just wanted to see her. I didn't know what came over me. I just couldn't get her out of my mind. It started the moment I saw her... when we collided outside the coffee shop. Since then, I'd been so protective of her, captivated... and fancied her. But this had to stop. Everything about her should stop. I don't need someone like her in my life and I don't need her coffee. Three nights after. I still couldn't sleep well. I kept on snapping at anyone in the office. I easily got irritated. I gave up. I couldn't stand it anymore. "Doris, call Jade. Tell her that her job is still available, if she wants to come back." I swallowed my pride. Dammit. I just missed her coffee. I knew she would come back. She needed the money to support her family and her studies. Thirty minutes later, Doris informed me that Jade didn't want to come back anymore. Dammit! "Why? Did she find another job?" "No sir. She said she's still looking for one." Doris said. Two days after, I decided to see Jade. I got her address in her CV. I went to South Bronx, looking for the apartment that she and her family rented. I was so shocked that she was living in a crowded place. The place where she lived was so small. What the hell! I inhaled deeply and knocked at the door of their rented apartment. The door immediately opened and a young teenage girl stared at me with open mouth. "Hi. I'm Eros Petrakis. Is Jade here?"

nice story. Buh pls i need more episode lyk kilode.

Chapter Fourteen (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here— Blair: This has to be Chuck’s dream girl. Intelligent but not a bookworm. Strong- willed but still feminine. An equal. And he likes brunettes. With deep brown eyes. Dorota: But Miss Blair, that’s you. – from the TV series, Gossip Girl Eros’ POV BANG!!! The door suddenly slammed shut forcefully and loudly in front of my face. Holy sh*t! Shock yielded quickly to fury, as I stood frozen at the door. That girl is mad! “Hey!” I shouted and knocked on the door again. This time, I exerted more effort, knocking forcefully till my knuckles turned red. “Open the door. I want to talk to Jade.” Then there was a loud sound of music playing. ♫♪♯ She be my queen Since we were sixteen We want the same things, We dream the same dreams, Alright (alright) ♫♪ That damn ill-bred murine could be Jade’s sister. She mentioned in her interview that she lived with her mother and sister. Well, her sister really needed discipline. She was rude and bad-mannered. She was obviously absent when her teacher taught good manners and right conduct. ♫♪I got it all 'Cause she is the one Her mum calls me love, Her dad calls me son, Alright (alright) ♪♯♫♪ I was knocking for almost fifteen minutes already when I decided to swallow my pride. I was losing my patience and that hard headed feline seemed to be so determined in ignoring me. I took my phone from my pants pocket and pressed Jade’s phone number. Her phone kept on ringing. I called her again… twice, then thrice. Dammit! She wouldn’t answer my calls. I pushed my hands inside my pants pockets and leaned my back on the wall, beside the door frame. Jade is obviously not in the house and that stubborn murine is alone. I have to talk to Jade, to know if she’s already working or not. Her sister is my only way of knowing her location, right now. I decided to stop knocking. I knew that her sister would only open the door, if she thought that I already left. She was probably mad at me for firing Jade… no, actually, I didn’t fire Jade, she quitted. Ten minutes later… as expected, the door opened. The same girl with brown hair and in Naruto Tshirt, looked at me with wide eyes. Her eyes lit with anger. “You’re still here!” She almost screamed and attempted to slam the door on my face again. “Yeah, I am. And you’re going to tell me now, where Jade is.” I was quick in preventing her from closing the door by standing under the door jamb. “Jade is not here, okay? So leave now!”

***CONTINUES*** “Hey. You are a hot headed little mouse… where’s your manners? You hid it in your closet?” “Dee is right, you’re rude. You called my sister malnourished, clumsy and stupid. And now!? You’re calling me hot headed, mouse and with bad manners. HA!” “Oh… so that’s why you’re mad at me. Sounds very interesting.” “Interesting, let’s see if you’ll still find it interesting if I kick your ass!” “Tsk, tsk. Jade failed to mention that her sister has BPD.” “BPD?” “Yeah. It’s common for beautiful women.” Her skin between her eyebrows puckered and her lips twisted unpleasantly. “I’m not stupid, I know what’s BPD. Excuse Mister, I don’t have a borderline personality disorder. Besides, spare me with your flattery, I knew you don’t mean it. So get out of her before I’ll call the police.” I was impressed. She was a smart girl, but really had a bad temper. “I’ll leave after you tell me where Jade is.” “Well mister, she has gone to Asia for a long long visit. You won’t see her again. She’s reunited with her childhood sweetheart.” A pain suddenly squeezed my heart as I thought of Jade with another guy. Sh*t! Who cares! I don’t want her, I just need her coffee. But this girl was probably lying. Jade wouldn’t go anywhere without her family. She was family oriented and their breadwinner. This little murine depended on her. “Well, that’s too bad. Tell Jade to come and see me immediately or I’ll have her arrested. That cup she broke cost a century of her salary. It was a rare chinese Ming Dynasty cup. I’m sure you don’t want your sister to spend Christmas in jail.” The anger on the girl’s face was instantly replaced with horror. “N… no.” “Then be a good girl and tell her what I came for. She only has twenty- four hours to see me. Once the time lapses, I won’t entertain her anymore. She has to face the consequence. Either she pays me or spend a lifetime in prison. I hope you understand me this time.” “Y… yes.” “See? You’re now starting to become a good girl.” I tapped her head then left her staring at me. Jade’s POV I felt so exhausted, walking around Manhattan, hopping from one interview to another. I was applying for an office job, since I already earned a few units in college. Perhaps a secretarial job or any clerical/encoding jobs would do. “I’m impressed with your very high grades, Miss Collins, despite being a working student.” “Thank you, sir. I made sure that…” I was interviewed for a secretarial job when my phone suddenly rang noisily. The Human Resource Supervisor who interviewed me quirked his eyebrow questioningly. “Er… excuse me, Sir.” He nodded and playfully tapped his pen on my CV, obviously annoyed of the interruption. I hurriedly opened my big brown leather bag and dug my phone inside. Oh… where is it… I grabbed my comb, my face powder, my wallet, my cologne… where’s my phone? Then finally, it stopped ringing. Whew! Thanks God.

I put down my bag and sat straight on my seat. I focused my attention at the HR Supervisor who was studying my CV. His lips twisted and his dark eyebrows slanted in a frown. Oh my goodness, he reminds me of my terror Physics teacher. Torturing us with ‘impossible to finish’ seatworks and grilled us during recitations. “Can you tell me how will you handle working eight hours a day and at the same time studying…” Ring!!! Ring!!! Ring!!! My phone started ringing noisily again. Oh God… whoever this is, I’m going to murder her or him. “I’m sorry sir, excuse me, please… just a minute… sorry.” I dug the phone in my bag again. My mirror, my planner, the electricity bill, my diary… where’s my phone! Then finally my phone stopped ringing when I got hold of it. I looked at the caller, darn, it was Mr. Eros Petrakis. My temper immediately flared. Why is he calling me? What is it he wants from me? I already quit. I won’t work for him anymore, making his precious coffee. The job won’t make me a better person, I’ll be stagnant doing domesticated works. I have to cultivate my knowledge, apply what I learned in school. Besides, I have pride and dignity too. I put my phone in a silent mode, so we won’t be distracted anymore. I focused my attention again to the interview. “Miss Collins, we will just call you, okay? Anyway, you have your contact number here in your CV.” “But sir…” “Good day, Miss Collins.” I gritted my teeth. I was certain that the HR supervisor would consider me for the job a while ago, and now my chances went down to zero. I hated Mr. Eros Petrakis for interrupting my interview. Whatever he wanted, I wouldn’t ever answer his calls. “You’re right Dee. He’s so rude and the most arrogant man I’ve ever met. He is like Klaus in The Vampire Diaries.” “Absolutely. Oh… I really hate him for ruining my job interview and for threatening me.” “So, are you going to see him tomorrow? You only have twelve hours left.” “I don’t have any choice. I have to see the devil himself." “Jade, just be nice to him. I’m sure he will understand that we don’t have the money to pay that antique cup. If possible, you have to beg.” “Mom, that’s the last thing that I would do. I won’t ever beg on that lordly pompous ass. He thinks he’s the most superior of all, the supreme being. He is not God, mom. He should realized that he is just an ordinary human being, like us.” “Yeah, right Dee.” Saph tapped my back. "Tell him that, on his face. I dare you sis." "A... um... I... maybe I will." I said to Saph. “I wonder what made him like that.” My mom sighed loudly. “Maybe from too much drinking bitter coffee.” Saph chuckled and added. "You should have put some sugar on his coffee Dee, to sweeten his bitter heart." The following day, exactly nine in the morning, I arrived at the lobby of the Petrakis Head Office in Manhattan. The same receptionist who helped me get an appointment with Mr. Markos Petrakis before, recognized me, and told me the floor of Mr. Eros Petrakis’ office.

Too short nw

waiting oooooooooo, @Shexee.

There were many people in the lobby lining up for the elevators. I hurriedly ran towards the elevator without a line and then pressed the up button. Fortunately, the doors immediately opened and I stepped inside, then pressed the floor of Mr. Petrakis’ office. Prrrttttt!!!!… Prrrttttt!!!! … The sound of the whistle made me snapped my head in surprise. There was a commotion outside and three security guards were running towards me in the elevator. “Hey, Miss… that’s a private elevator.” One guard shouted. Realizing my mistake, I pressed the open button, so I could step out, but accidentally, it was the close button that I pressed. I got confused with the arrows. The doors snapped shut immediately and the elevator was moving up. Oh God. A very pretty, young and gorgeous light blond-haired woman dressed in stylish pink executive suit was on the phone when I arrived at Mr. Petrakis floor. “Yes, she’s here. No… no… I’m sure Mr. Petrakis won’t like that. I’ll handle this.” The woman said. I smiled at her but she didn’t smile back at me. I read her nameplate --- Miss Pamela Leech – Personal Secretary. Oh.. yeah, I remember her. “Hi, good morning maam. I’m Jade Collins, I’m here to see Mr. Eros Petrakis. I guess… um… he’s expecting me.” I said, the moment Miss Leech put down the phone. “So you are Miss Collins. Yes, he’s been expecting you since yesterday.” One beautifully arched eyebrow of hers rose. Then she lifted her chin and her eyes were assessing me up and down. “Ah.. um.. thank you.” I replied. “Next time Miss Collins, read the sign at the top of the elevator. It says PRIVATE. No one is allowed to use that elevator except for the bosses.” She said pointing the elevator where I’d just stepped off. Her beautiful face was giving me a furious look. “Sorry.” I felt so embarrassed and being belittled. I was an idiot for missing the sign. “It won’t happen again.” Because, I’ll make sure that I won’t step in this building again. “You’ve better not. You created a commotion downstairs. Your stupidity could cause…” Ding! I heard the elevator door suddenly opened. Miss leech facial expression suddenly changed. She gave me a heartwarming smile, showing her beautiful even white teeth. “Good morning to you too, Miss Collins. Have a seat first.” My lips parted in surprise by her change of behaviour. Then I realized the reason why, when a man passed beside me and brushed his arm on mine. I looked at his back. He was walking towards his office. He ignored me as if I never existed.

Chapter Fifteen (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here— “Love is an untamed force. When we try to control it, it destroys us. When we try to imprison it, it enslaves us. When we try to understand it, it leaves us feeling lost and confused.” ― Paulo Coelho Eros’ POV I saw Jade the moment I went out of the elevator. Who would have miss Jade? She had her unique way of dressing up. She definitely would stand out in the crowd of women. When most female species dressed in miniskirts to flaunt their legs, she wore long dresses that almost covered her limbs. When majority of women chose colorful and glossy fabrics to attack the attention of men, she used dull colors and matte fabrics so she wouldn’t be noticed. And when girls used high heels to look more slim and stunning, Jade didn’t have to, she was tall already and stunning in her own way. Yeah, I intentionally brushed her arm so she would notice me, to draw her attention that – hey! I’m here. Her eyes were riveted on my secretary that she wasn’t aware that I was just behind her. I didn’t know why my heart hammered foolishly everytime I was near her. Maybe because I found her funny, unique, fragile yet a strong-willed woman. She was beautiful in her own way. Her totally natural beauty was a change from seeing fake beauties everyday, in heavy make-up, false eyelashes and bottled hair color. Or maybe… because of her perfume, cologne or lotion, whatever it was. She smelled like vanilla, an earthly kind of sweet, fresh and soothing to the nostrils. Something that I missed smelling every morning for the last six months. I entered in my office and inhaled deeply. It never occurred to me how deeply her presence affected me. The excitement of seeing her again made all my senses came alive and my pulses raced rapidly. What is wrong with me? She’s just a woman. But what made me cringed was the thought of how stupid I was in using a threat just to have Jade come and see me today. She left me no choice. She wouldn’t answer my calls and was so stubborn in accepting my offer to come back and work for me again. Yeah, I was desperate and afraid that she was really serious in turning down my offer. The threat I used about the Ming Dynasty cup just came up suddenly. I didn’t know where in the world I got that. I was even surprised of what I just suggested. I was anxious to know where Jade was and her ‘difficult to deal’ little sister was not cooperative in telling me where she was. Dammit! For threatening her about that cup, it probably just cost a dollar or even less – and here she was, getting apprehensive of breaking a rare piece of Chinese Ming Dynasty antique cup. I felt guilty for threatening her, but at least - she was here. The only consolation that I could think about. I strode towards my desk and sat down behind it. I took my phone and pressed a number. “Good morning Mr. Petrakis.” A man greeted on the other line. “I need a house.” Jade’s POV Mr. Petakis was sitting behind his desk, talking on his phone. He never even glanced at me when I entered his office. His face was averted to his left and from time to time, glanced on his watch or on his table. He looked so busy, with files of documents on his desk, obviously for his perusal and signatures.

why now? too short. buh try to upload more thanks.

Nxt one plsssss

Wow, so interesting, i read it in a day, i tink Jade and Eros myt have met b4, maybe dey cnt jst rem yet. Nxt episode pls!!!

I stood in front of him and studied his appearance. His jet black hair glistened and combed neatly on his head. It was clearly wet from the shower. His face looked so fresh and cleanly shaven, with no trace of stubble. His gray Armani suit fitted on him nicely, like an armor - he looked so dashing, powerful and handsome, yup, exactly like a devil – and I hated him. Five minutes. I stood in front of him for about five minutes. Waiting for him to finish his phone call. Then finally, he looked at me and put down his phone on his desk. “Sit down, Miss Collins.” “Thank you.” I heaved a sigh and sat down on a chair in front of his desk. I was trying so hard to control my temper and to be more polite. I just hope that he would be more sensible and understanding in resolving the problem with the antique cup. “So, can you start tomorrow?” “What?” His eyebrows rose questioningly. “That’s why you’re here, to work for me again.” My teeth gritted. This devil really got under my nerves. He was so arrogant, implying that I came here to make his coffee again. In fact, I came here to make a bargain. “No, I won’t.” His eyes met mine disparagingly. “You don’t have a choice. Either you work for me or pay that priceless antique cup.” “I have a choice, Mr. Petrakis. Every human being has a choice.” I lifted my chin daring him to contradict my opinion. “Not you.” His mouth twisted in a threat. “That cup is worth thirty six million dollars. Tell me Miss Collins, how are you going to pay that amount if you won’t work for me?” My hands started to shake with despair. What?! Thirty six million dollars? I pressed my palms on my cheeks convulsively, trying to think of ways to deal the situation. For goodness sake, how could I pay that antique chinese cup? It would take me more than a lifetime to pay that thing. Even my great grandchildern would bear such debts! How could he allow that rare piece collection to be use as his daily espresso cup? It should be displayed only together with the priceless figurines, or put in a pedestal, where no one could touch it. My mind was in chaos, thinking of ways to solve such dilemma. Oh God, please help me. I didn’t know what to do to escape from this mess. My head bowed and my body slumped in misery. “I apologize for breaking the cup, sir. Believe me, it was an accident. If you will allow me, I will pay for it - in installment basis… promise. Even if it would take a lifetime for me to pay the whole amount, I will.” He exhaled heavily. “Why do you burden yourself in paying for it when all you have to do is work for me. I’m offereing you back your job. It’s an easy job with a good compensation, that any unemployed person here in New York would gladly take your place.” “I… I…” Grief and despair tore in my heart. His brows drew together in a frown. “What’s the problem, Miss Collins? Maybe you would like to enlighten me.” I swallowed the sob that rose in my throat. I looked at him and said. “I… I’m not happy anymore.”

A muscle suddenly flicked at his jaw and his eyes slightly narrowed. “Why not?” He asked in an angry tone. “Er… I don’t know how to explain this, but… I hope you won’t take this so badly, sir… I… I just think that… that…” “What? Just say what you want to say.” I opened my mouth to say it, but no words would come out. My throat constricted from nervousness. “Tell me, Jade, what is it?” His voice was velvet-edged and strong. The way he said my name, sent a shiver down my spine. “I… I guess, it’s time for me to stop making a cup of coffee for a living, sir, and… and pursue a profession that is related to my course, in preparation for my future.” “What do you mean?” “I prefer secretarial or clerical jobs, where I could apply the knowledge I gained from school. Since I started working with you sir, I enrolled in an online college degree program in Business Administration until now.” “I know.” “You knew?” All along he knew that I was studying. I couldn’t believe it. He leaned forward on his table, his face came closer to mine. I could smell his clean, musky male scent that leaped every cell of my brain. “Yeah. Doris told me.” “OH!” I leaned back on my seat and played with my fingers. Waiting for him to say anything. “I knew that you stayed in the staff residence area until three in the afternoon because of the high speed internet connection.” “Er… um…” “And I knew that you’re doing so good in school. Doris said that you got very high grades.” “Um… thank you, sir.” He nodded and leaned back on his chair. “So… can you start working tomorrow?” “What?” “As my personal assistant. Here in the office.” “Your personal assistant?” My eyes widened. I couldn’t believe what I’d just heard. He’s hiring me now? “Yes. You will come with me, wherever I go, take dictation, join me in my meetings and conferences. Just like a secretary.” “Just like a secretary?” But what about Miss Leech? I wanted to ask him but decided to shut my mouth. “Yeah, but… you still have to prepare my coffee.” I was so overwhelmed with joy. Is this real? He’s not kidding me, right? “So, what’s your answer?” “Are you serious, sir.” I asked him again, to make sure that I was not dreaming. He nodded. “Very serious, Miss Collins. So is it a yes?” I smiled and give him my big YES. “Good. So tomorrow you will report in my apartment at eight in the morning.” “In your apartment? I thought…” “Just trust me, okay?” “Yes, sir.” I smiled happily. Trust. Can I really trust him?

lyk seriously, am beging for me updates. howevere, u've written a great writeup.

Chapter Sixteen (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here— SKINNY LOVE is when two people love each other but are too shy to admit it but they still show it. – www.urban dictionary.com Jades’ POV “Hi Doris.” My voice shrilled with excitement. “Hello Jade, it’s so nice to have you back. We missed you.” She hugged me tightly, rocking me sidewards. “Thanks, Doris, I missed all of you too.” I hugged her back. She was always so sweet to me and motherly. She opened the door wider to let me in. “Mr. Petrakis is in the kitchen, cooking breakfast.” I was not surprise anymore. He cooked his own breakfast sometimes, maybe every time he was in a good mood or not too busy - or the opposite, to relieve stress. I really don’t know, he was unpredictable, like the weather. Doris held my arm, drawing me closer to her. Then she whispered. “I think you’re going to have breakfast with him. He asked me to set the kitchen table for two.” “Really?” “Yes.” At once, I got nervous. The thought of eating breakfast with him in a small table made me edgy – and so awkward, like the last time. I couldn’t help feeling so conscious of his nearness and I felt like my personal space was invaded. “I can’t. I had my breakfast already.” “Oh dear, he’ll be verrryy - disappointed. He made a special breakfast. Chicken sausages, AND… pancakes with fresh strawberry syrup.” I loved fresh strawberry syrup on my pancake with a lot of whipped cream. It was my favorite. Hmmm… I missed eating it with Doris in the kitchen. “Oh… so tempting, but I’m full already.” “Well, that’s too bad, dear.” She smiled and left. I strode towards the kitchen, still thinking of pancakes, fresh strawberries and whipped cream. I saw Mr. Petrakis the moment I entered the kitchen. He looked so strikingly attractive wearing a white apron above his gray shirt and blue cotton shorts. His straight black hair was still wet from the shower. He looked so fresh and clean. He was not aware of me watching him. He was putting a plate of sausages on the table. His head was bent down. My eyes caught at the one lock that fell a little forward onto his head. I noticed that it always did whenever he bent down. I stared at it and was really tempted to brush it back on his head. “Good morning, Mr. Petrakis.” He suddenly lifted his face and looked at me. His silvery gray eyes caught and held mine. I couldn’t help it, I froze again. “Sit down, join me for breakfast.” He pointed a chair. “Thank you sir, but I already had my breakfast.” “Then, have a cup of coffee.” I nodded. “Um, excuse me sir, I’ll make your coffee.” I went to the coffee machine and made his favorite cup of espresso. I took my time and made another cup for me, my favorite caffè latte. I looked over my shoulder and saw him reading a national daily newspaper.

I served his coffee first and came back with my caffè latte. I sat across him on the table, so nervous. I was playing with my fingers, lacing and twisting it. Yeah, a bad habit of mine when I was so edgy. “Are you sure you’re not going to eat?” He said, folding the newspaper and putting it at the side of the table. “Um… yup. I’m so full.” “Okay.” His eyebrows furrowed. Mr. Petrakis put a piece of pancake on his plate, then he put on top of it, a spoonful of cream and fresh strawberry syrup. Yum! My mouth started to water and my stomach gurgled, staring at his plate. He put down his plate and sipped on his coffee. I sipped on my caffè latte too, trying to divert my attention from the mouth watering pancake. “What are you drinking?” “Ah.. um… caffè latte.” “Is it good?” “Yeah, I like it. It’s very delicious. You should try it some time, sir.” I said. My eyes couldn’t help not looking at the pancake on his plate. It really looked so temptingly delicious. “Hmm… maybe.” He replied. “Are you sure you don’t like to eat? This pancake is delicious.” “Um… er…” “Here.” He leaned forward and replaced my plate with his. I stared at the pancake in front of me now. I couldn’t resist it anymore. My saliva poured in my mouth. “Thank you.” I smiled at him and he just nodded. I was so excited to eat it. Due to my excitement, my fork fell on the floor. Darn. I squirmed with embarrassment. “Um… Excuse me, sir, I’ll just get another fork.” I stood up to get a fork at the counter drawer. Eros’ POV Jade was so funny. She obviously liked to eat the pancake but she was resisting her cravings to eat it. I noticed how her eyes kept looking on my plate. She was really tempted. I knew how she loved pancake with fresh strawberry syrup and lots of whipped cream on top. That’s the reason why I made the pancake and the strawberry syrup, even though I was not fond of it. I just wanted to make her happy. Well, I didn’t know why it was suddenly so important for me to please her… but maybe because, it pleased me too. The moment she turned her back on me to get a fork at the counter drawer, I picked her cup and sipped on it. I was intrigued how delicious caffè latte was and curious too on why she liked it. I’d tasted caffè latte before and its taste never appealed to me. I found it too sweet, too weak and very light. The flavor and aroma of coffee was gone because of too much milk. But Jade’s caffè latte was different. Its flavor and aroma was unique and very tasty. Everything blended so well, the sweetness and bitterness of the coffee, not too strong and not to weak. Even the aroma of the espresso complemented with the freshness of the milk. Jade was right, it was indeed delicious. I waited for her to come back on her seat, before we started eating together. I noticed her eating heartily. She obviously enjoyed her pancake. In impulse, I put a sausage on her plate. I thought she was going to refuse it, but she just smiled and said thank you.

I enjoyed watching her eat. Yep, not sexy, demure or anything. She just ate naturally and so relax - no pretentions. She didn’t care who was watching her. She just enjoyed her food with gusto. Later, I gave up tying my necktie, so I went out of the bedroom with it undone. I was in the living room with Jade when I struggled to do my tie again. I already did it several times when Jade offered to tie it for me. “I gave up.” I groaned aloud. “I can help you with that, sir. I know how to do that.” I was surprised that Jade offered. Actually, I wasn’t expecting that. “Sure.” I replied. Jade knotted my necktie so well, in just one try. I was amazed how her slim fingers skillfully eased my tie neatly in place. “How did you learn to do this?” “From my dad. I used to knot his tie for him, every morning.” She said. Her eyes instantly welled with tears. She probably missed her dad. I just nodded at her. I didn’t want her to cry and became emotional. I possibly couldn’t handle that – honestly, that was something that I couldn’t understand in women. Sensitive. Emotional. Hysterical. Something that I tried to avoid dealing with. I cleared my throat and diverted her attention. “Jade, before we’ll go, I want you to bring your pen and notepad always with you. Okay?” “Yes sir.” “Good, and from now on, use this phone. I already put my personal and business numbers in it.” I took the latest model of iPhone from my pocket and handed it to her. I saw her eyes widened with shock. Looking at the phone with awe. Her expression was like a child seeing Santa Claus standing beside a Christmas tree. She held the phone with both hands, like she was afraid of dropping it. “It’s yours. You can put whatever apps you want in it.” “Oh! This looks so exp… I mean…” I knew what she meant. “Come on, let’s go. We’ll be late.” I strode towards the door. “Okay, Mr. Petrakis, um… thank you for the phone.” She was following behind me, keeping up my pace. I just nodded, then opened the door for her. “And Jade…” “Yes, Mr. Petrakis?” She paused at the door and rose her eyebrows questioningly. I held her eyes and smiled. “Call me Eros, when we’re alone.”

Chapter Seventeen (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here— We've got this gift of love, but love is like a precious plant. You can't just accept it and leave it in the cupboard or just think it's going to get on by itself. You've got to keep watering it. You've got to really look after it and nurture it. - John Lennon, Musician, Songwriter and singer of The Beatles Jades’ POV "Vingt-cinq milliards de dollars , ce est définitif ... oui ... oui ... si vous ne serez pas accepter mon offre, alors , je ne ai pas d'autre choix que d'acheter le chantier naval de votre concurrent au lieu ... eh bien , je vous ai donné suffisamment de temps pour penser déjà , président , je veux votre décision maintenant si je peux négocier pour mes projets alternatifs ... . Non ... je ai dit non . Ce ne est pas partie du plan . Bon, d'accord . Donc je suppose , ce est la fin de notre conversation ...” What? Is that Russia, German, Turkish… perhaps Norwegian? Or Filipino? I couldn’t understand the language he was using. Mr. Petrakis… I mean, Eros, was on the phone, negotiating a business deal, since we were inside his car. He was using a wireless bluetooth earphone. I listened to him still trying to figure out the language he used. He had a nice voice, so male. Deep, composed and yet, edged with steel. He spoke with cool authority. I leaned back against the cushion of the passenger seat, feeling its softness. My hands rubbed the richness of the leather at the side of my seat. Riding Eros’ car was like riding a jet, very placid and comfortable. Yeah, he drove really fast but he maneuvered his car so smoothly. I sniffed deeply the smell in the car. It was a combination of leather, cool air from the car’s air conditioner and Eros’ familiar scent, like a fresh cologne or bodywash, not empowering and fiery. This is such a beautiful car, it probably cost a fortune… like the Ming dynasty cup. He suddenly touched my hand lightly, that jolted me out of my reverie. “Paper… I need a paper.” He said abruptly at me. He took a pen from his jacket’s side pocket. “Juste une seconde, président. Ma secrétaire reçoit toujours son bloc- notes.” I immediately opened my big brown bag, looking for my notebook. I dug my wallet… mirror… sanitizer… face powder… flashlight… umbrella… sanitary napkin… oh no… no paper. Where is it? I’m sure I put it inside my bag this morning. “Hurry, Jade.” His eyebrows furrowed. “Er… I don’t have any paper with me… sorry… sir, er… Mr. Petrakis…”

He said firmly, his eyes glanced at my big brown leather bag. Oh no... I think I know what he’s thinking. He’s going to write on my bag. I won’t let him, this is my grandmother’s bag. My suspicion was right. He stopped the car in the sidewalk and grabbed my bag. “I’ll buy you another bag.” “No… no… Mr. Petrakis, this has sentimental value. Here, use my hand.” I extended my hand with my palm up for him to write on it. His lips twisted with disapproval but eventually, he held my hand and laid it on top of the steering wheel. I felt the tingling sensation of the pen and his fingers as he wrote on my palm. It sent delicious feeling at the pit of my stomach, awakening buried sensations inside my body. I looked at him, his eyes were fixed at my hand. He looked very handsome in that angle… so serious, unapproachable, powerful… totally a businessman. But I preferred his other side, the one in the penthouse a while ago. Domesticated, not so intimidating… and who smiled. Actually, it was the first time that I’d seen him smile. He looked even more handsome - ten times more. Eros parked his car in front of the Petrakis’ office building, as well as the other car, a black SUV driven by Donovan. Donovan was trailing behind us on our way to the office. A valet opened the passenger door for me. I got out of the car instantly and hurriedly followed Eros inside the building. “Ooooppsss… excuse me, where are you going miss?” I was approaching the buidling door when one of the security guards who raced towards me at the elevator yesterday, curtly said. “Oh, hello, good morning. I’m going to…” “Hey, you were the girl who rode the private elevator yesterday.” The other guard butted in. “Can’t you read the sign? It’s written in bold letters above the elevator, PRIVATE.” “Yah, we are lucky we didn’t get fired.” Security Guard-1 snorted. “Don’t make the same mistake of taking the private elevator again, okay?” Security Guard-2 warned her. “Um, okay… I’m really sorry about yesterday.” I looked up at the two six-footer security guards who were looming over me. “Jade.” I heard Eros’ familiar voice, called me from afar. “Hurry up.” “Have to go, good day… um, bye.” I said to the two security guards who looked so surprise of hearing Eros calling me. I left them and went towards Eros who was waiting for me at the lobby. I entered the private elevator with Eros. I saw the two guards looking at me with their mouths dropped open.

Eros introduced me to Miss Pamela Leech. He ordered Miss Leech to show me to my new office. It was an adjoining office of Eros. A smaller office, with the colors beige and brown dominated the room. The interior was beautifully designed, simple and yet modern. There was an office table with an ergonomic chair at the center, and an empty computer table on the side. “You are lucky you have your own office.” I just looked at Miss Leech. I didn’t know what to answer to her. Is she jealous that I have my own office? Miss Leech’s office table was located just outside Eros’ office. She received the clients and business associates that walked in, in his office. “Well, it’s fine with me. I don’t have any problem with that, as long as I get a good pay.” She smiled sweetly at me. “Anyway, just call me Pam.” “Oh, um, you can call me Jade also.” “Well, nice meeting you Jade. Have to go back to my table. I have to organize some files. We’ll talk during lunch.” I smiled at her. She was a nice girl. I thought she was a snob, mean and rude. Well… she was, yesterday. When Pam left, I sat on the chair behind the desk and opened the drawers to check what were inside. There were pens, notepads, rulers, staplers, punchers, bond papers and other office supplies. I was leaning back on the chair, feeling the comfort and the atmosphere of my new office, when the adjoining door suddenly opened. It was Eros and he was holding a big white box in just one hand. I stood up, surprised of his sudden appearance. I felt embarrassed of being caught relaxing in my new chair. “Here’s your laptop. You will need this to draft messages and schedule my appointments.” He put the box on top of the computer table. My eyes immediately widened. A new laptop, with the same logo as my new phone. He must have plenty of this in his stockroom. Pam has it also on her table. “Thank you, Er… um… Mr. Petrakis.” Was all I could manage to say. He looked around and gave me the same smile that sent my pulses racing. “We’re alone.” He said in almost a whisper. “You can call me Eros.” I observed that his eyes flickered. Is he teasing me? Or flirting with me. Secretaries or assistants don’t call their bosses on first name basis. Hmmm…. Knowing his attitude being so strict and authoritarian… he’s probably testing me. Well, I’m determined to pass any test he planned, oral, written, practical… whatever. “Um, I can’t do that Mr. Petrakis, you are my boss.”

His brows pulled into an affronted frown. “You know Jade, there’s an exception in every rule. You have been working with me for the past seven months. And our relationship… is more that just a boss and an employee, it expounded into, friendship - and I see you not just an employee but a... a girl… with… with…” He groaned and heaved a sigh. He stopped talking and just looked at me intently. “Okay, you’re right. You can call me Mr. Petrakis, if that makes you comfortable.” “Yes, sir, it is.” I replied. A muscle quivered at his jaw. Then he came closer to me, his eyes never leaving mine. I suddenly felt so nervous especially when he reached out for my hand. I stepped backward, but I was trapped between the two tables. He got hold of my hand with his and raised it to his… lips. Oh God, no... what’s he doing? He paused and got something on his pants’ pocket. He turned my hand, with my palm up, and spread it. Then he took a picture of my palm using his phone. Oh gosh, yeah I forgot. He needed the number that he wrote on my hand. “Do you have any sanitizer or rubbing alcohol in here?” He asked me afterwards. “Er… I haven't seen any. But I have in my bag.” I grabbed my bag and dug the sanitizer inside. Thanks God, I got hold of it immediately. I gave the sanitizer to him. What’s he going to do with a sanitizer or rubbing alcohol? I wondered. He took his handkerchief from his pants pocket and poured enough amount of sanitizer on it. Then he took my hand again and rubbed the ink off my hand. Eros' POV I was with my best friend, Iñigo Monteiro in my office, drinking coffee. We discussed about the ongoing construction of our new hotel in California. It was a joint venture between the Petrakis and the Monteiro. "So, how do you find Jade's coffee? It's very addictive, right?" I asked Iñigo. I had a coffee machine installed in the coffee room a week ago, the same day Jade started working in the office. Iñigo chuckled. "My friend. I hate to say this... but I think you should try starbucks coffee."

Chapter Eighteen (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here— “Do you know the date today?” “It’s 20th of the month, right?” Chloe said, raising one eyebrow. “Nope. It’s 21st, it's past midnight. Remember? It’s our month-sary.” Iñigo teased her. She heaved a sigh and softly said, almost in a whisper. “Iñigo... What do you want from me.” “You Chloe, all of you. Please give me a second chance.” He drawled. --- Iñigo Monteiro and Chloe Petrakis, Catch Me by sweetdreamer33 Eros’ POV And I hate to say this… but I think I need to find a new bestfriend, because you’ve just insulted Jade’s coffee. I wanted to tell him that and knocked him dead in less than three seconds… but NO… I was not that kind of man, I was a businessman and not a murderer. I believed in God and had great fear on Him. Besides, Iñigo was my best friend and I respected his opinion. Each man had his own preference in life, in things and in his coffee. “I’ve drank more than a gallon of starbucks coffee in college, man… but no… it’s not the same as Jade’s coffee.” “Then something is wrong with your tastebuds.” Iñigo laughed. “Or maybe you’re bewitched.” “You mean by Jade?” I didn’t like what Iñigo suggested. Bewitched was not a nice word to use against Jade. “Yes. For the past hour, you’ve mentioned her name more than ten times.” “Because, she’s my personal assistant.” “No, don’t kid me man, I know you. You like her, admit it. You even bought her a house. Clint told me about it. Did you give it to her already?” Clint Sotto was one of the real estate managers of the Monteiros. “Shh… shut up, she might hear you. No, I’m still trying to figure out… of ways I mean, on how to give it to her...” I shifted on my seat. A sweat from my nape suddenly slid down on my back. “Without her getting suspicious of your motive. Right?” “Yes… No! What motive are you talking about? I just want to help her because she’s my employee. I’ve been to their place, it was so small and not really conducive for them to live there… with her mother’s heart condition.” “Hahaha… See? you are smitten by her.”

“You just don’t understand what I’m talking about, man.” “Yup, I really don’t understand. Tell me… why in the world are you attracted to her? She’s not your usual type. What happened to the guy who used to date hot models? You prefer colored beauties… you know, ginger red hair with green eyes… like the girl you told me about. Still can’t find her, huh?” I breathed heavily and let out an angry sigh. “Stop talking man, you are not funny anymore. Here, sign these papers.” I pushed the documents towards him. It was about our ongoing project, one of the biggest and grandest five star hotel constructed in California. “Whoah! You are evading my questions. You are guilty.” Iñigo immediately took the papers and signed it. “I’m not. What about you, are you still dating that blond model?” I found it amusing that Iñigo’s taste in women changed. Totally the exact opposite of Chloe who was a long-haired brunette and with a curvaceous body. He was dating now a very short haired blond and with a walking stick body. “Yeah...” “Getting serious already?” “Maybe.” He laughed and shrugged his shoulders. He was enjoying himself, provoking me. I wondered why he was my best friend. I was too formal and he was too rugged. I was so quiet and he was too loud. I was ruthless, cruel, the ‘bad guy’ and he was always the good guy. I didn’t smile and he smiled all the time. I was hated and he was praised, adored especially by women. We are very much opposite. “That’s good. I’m relieved that you already moved on. I heard Chloe is also seriously dating. After almost four years, she finally moved on.” I knew the effect it would do to Iñigo in just a mere mention of my sister’s name. “Really? I’m happy for her.” Iñigo said sarcastically. His expression suddenly changed from lively to stony. “Yeah, and she will graduate very soon, exactly a year from now. And… her first project will be the new hotel in California. She will do the whole interior designs.” “You’re kidding me, right?” Iñigo’s replied sharply. “I’m not. What are you afraid of? Both of you already moved on, it’s time to call a truce. You will see her more often once she’ll be working with us, get use to it, man.” I was baiting him. Turning the table on him. “NO. Give her another project. Send her to our other hotel in Singapore or in Jamaica. I don’t want to work with her.” Iñigo immediately stood up. His face was a glowering mask of rage. “I have to go, I’ll see you this weekend.” “Tsk… tsk… Just a mention of Chloe’s name, and you instantly want to leave. Anyway, how would you like a sparring match tomorrow?” I asked him, trying to calm his nerves. I knew he wouldn’t refuse a match in kickboxing. It was his only way to retaliate what I had done to him four years ago.

“Sure, why not? But in one condition.” “What?” “No protective gear.” I inhaled deeply and let out a sigh. “Okay, cool.” Yes, for almost four years, I allowed myself to be Iñigo’s punching bag. I let him win all the time. He probably noticed that I was not exerting much effort to win, but he didn’t say anything. I knew he still hated me for what I did, and I regretted it. I didn’t know what made me do it, why I became a monster - a selfish, uncaring, and ruthless devil. How I wished I could turn back the clock and erased all the cruel things I did to him. It was not my nature to apologize to anyone, but to him, I did. He was my bestfriend and our friendship meant a lot to me. He was like my brother. But I knew that he hadn’t forgiven me totally… and that was one of my frustrations. Someday, I’ll do anything to make everything right. Jade’s POV “I don’t know what happened to him. He went back after a kickboxing match with Iñigo, more than two hours ago. Since then, he haven’t come out of his bedroom.” Doris was getting so worried. I looked at my watch, it was already nine in the morning. Mr. Petrakis had a very important business meeting at ten thirty. “He will miss an important deal if he won’t wake up sooner.” “You’re right. Well, what are you waiting for? Go to his room and wake him up. You’re his assistant, so that’s part of your job.” Should I? Doris could be right. “Yeah, I guess you’re right, Doris.” I knocked on Mr. Petrakis bedroom several times. Then finally, I heard him said “Come in.” I opened the door slowly and saw him sprawled on bed with his eyes closed. He was wearing only a light gray cotton shorts. I was surprised to see the red bruises on his face and his body. There was even a tear on his lower lip. What happened to him? He looked like he was beaten by Iñigo in their kickboxing match. “Um, good morning sir. You have an appointment at ten a.m., and it’s already nine o’clock.” “Yeah…” His voice was in agony. He opened his eyes, then he got out of his bed very slowly and went towards the bathroom staggering. “Can you prepare a suit for me Jade. I’ll just take a quick shower.”

He was not feeling well, most probably running a fever because his face was so flushed and he had bloodyshot eyes. He should stay in bed and cancel all his appointments. My goodness, he was not a machine. Well, even machines were needed to rest in order not to break down. “Yes sir.” I opened his dressing room, the moment Mr. Petrakis entered the bathroom. Wow, his dressing room was like a men’s boutique. The business suits in neutral colors were hung in one corner and beside it were its matching pants. There were racks full of neckties in different colors. Stacks of shirts were arranged according to color and were placed in one corner of the room. At the other side of the dressing room was his casual clothes, like denim pants, Tshirts, leather jackets, sports wear, etc. He had plenty of shoes. All kinds of men’s shoes, actually. The were placed in a rack, some in a glass cabinet, others were still in its boxes. I picked a gray business suit, a white shirt and a black and blue striped necktie. I immediately went outside of his dressing room and laid his clothes on his kingsized bed. After a minute, he came out of the shower. He was only wearing a towel around his hips. My goodness! I couldn’t help it, my eyes dilated again. I was more surprised when I saw that Mr. Petrakis was shivering. His face looked so pale. He was grasping his arms with his hands and was running towards his bed. “Are you okay?” I asked him. “Yeah… yeah… I’m fine.” He said trying to get inside a blanket. I instantly grabbed a comforter at the end of the bed and covered him in it. “It’s still cold.” He said underneath the blanket and the comforter. He was moving restlessly. I took the two pillows and covered him on it. “Still cold?” I asked him. “Yeah…” I didn’t have a choice but to climb on top of the pillows, to keep him warm. “Does it feel warmer, sir?” Silence. “Um… sir?” “Can’t… breathe.” He moaned. “You what?” My eyes widened when realization hit me. HE CAN’T BREATH. I immediately moved and got out of the bed. I put aside the pillows and removed the comforter and the blanket off him. He was sweating profusely and obviously not shivering anymore.

“Are you okay?” “Yeah, I guess so.” He was gasping for air and unhurriedly sat down on his bed. “I… I’ll just get out so you can put your clothes on sir.” He just nodded, still panting. After fifteen minutes, we had our breakfast together. He was eating his breakfast slowly, obviously having no appetite. He was sick and brooding. He seemed to be in deep thoughts. I knew, something’s bothering him. At the moment, he looked so different from the powerful Eros Petrakis that I had known. I made him a café latte. His taste shifted from espresso coffee to café latte two weeks ago. It made me feel glad that at least he started to explore the different flavors of coffee. I made a smiley emoticon art design on his café latte to brighten his mood, but still his facial expression was gloomy. Later, we departed for work. We were already in his car when he suddenly said. “Wait here, Jade. I left my phone in my bedroom.” “Oh, I’ll get it sir.” I looked at his flushed face. He was not really feeling well. He probably had a high fever. He was just pretending to be okay. I wanted to tell him to stay in bed and take his medicine, because that was what sick people do. But I knew he was a hard headed man, so arrogant. He wouldn’t accept that he was sick…. And for goodness sake, I haven’t even seen him took a medicine. What was he trying to do, kill himself? “I said, wait here.” He snapped stubbornly. “Eros… stop pretending, I know you’re not fine. I’ll get your phone, okay?” I said to him, and I realized it was the first time I used his first name. He held my eyes before he nodded. After five minutes, I went back to his car and gave him his phone. I also gave him a bottled purified water. “What’s this for?” He asked about the water. I dug a bottle of tylenol inside my bag, took a tablet and gave it to him. “You should take this, so you’ll feel better.” He frowned but still took the medicine without any question, then returned the bottled water to me. He drove the car in silence and slowly. I kept on looking at him, checking if he was okay. We were inside the elevator going up to his office when he talked to me again.

“Jade.” “Sir?” He smiled and said. “Thank you. I feel much better now.” Eros immediately went to his business meeting at the conference room. I was composing a business letter when Pamela came inside my office. “Jade, will you please make me a cappucino? With an Angry Bird art design on top?” Asking coffee twice a day, during breaktimes, became a habit of Pam. She became very demanding with the art designs. Mickey Mouse, Hello Kitty, Olaf, pig, flowers, hearts, stars, candies, apple, her name, etc. I couldn’t say no to her. I didn’t want to have a conflict with anyone. I was new in the office and still wanted to create a good impression to everyone. “Okay, sure.” I replied. “Thanks Jade, you’re a darling. Just put it on my table.” Pam said before she left. I went home immediately after work. I received a text message from my mom telling me to go home ASAP. She said she had a big surprise. But I arrived home late, it was already seven in the evening. The traffic was getting heavier every day. I was so tired and hungry.... and, I still had to study my lessons and make my assignments for my online college program after dinner. Yup, I continued my online course, and I was really determined to finish it. “Mom! Jade is here.” Sapphire shouted excitedly the moment I entered the small apartment we’d rented. She was using my old laptop now, probably chatting with her friends again in facebook or reading a wattpad story. I gave it to her when Mr. Petrakis gave me a Macbook. Mom came out of the kitchen, looking so thrilled with happiness. “Oh… Jade, you wouldn’t believe what I’ve just won in the supermarket today.” “You won in the supermarket?” My brows rose questioningly. Oh... let me guess... a cookingware set? Or a turkey for Christmas eve, probably a new washing machine. “Yes dear, it’s the best Christmas gift ever! A real estate developer randomly picked me as their winner!” Mom shrilled with joy. “Winner...? Of what?” “A new house!”

Chapter Nighteen (UNEDITED) --Kindly put your playlist here— 1 Peter 3: 4 Your Beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. Jade’s POV Our new house was really a blessing to us. It was a four bedroom and two bathroom fully furnished Family Townhouse located just a few blocks away from the Petrakis Building. We moved into it a day before Christmas eve. We were so excited, especially Sapphire who never ceased jumping up and down on her new bed – in her new all pink bedroom. It was a relief that I was very near to my work now. I didn’t have to wake up very early just to catch the seven a.m. bus. And… I could save more money from the house rental and fare. Aside from that, Sapphire was nearer to her school too. It was really a coincident that mom won the house, so amazing… and in time for Christmas. God was so good to us and I was really thankful to HIM for all our blessings. I was sure, my dad was watching us too and never left us. All the sacrifice my family went through really paid off from hard work, dedication, doing good to others and prayers. The blessings started to pour in - my job as a personal assistant, my dream to go to college, and now, this new house. Our Christmas eve was the best ever since dad died. We had a turkey! The dinner was very special because each employee of the Petrakis International Holding Corp. received a bag full of groceries and a Christmas bonus. After Christmas, I decided to visit my grandmother, actually my dad’s mom in Georgia. It was a thirteen-hour travel by land from New York to Georgia, so I just went alone. My mom wasn’t allowed by her physician to travel because of her heart condition. Sapphire really wanted to come with me but she couldn’t leave mom alone. My grandmother, Adelle Collins was a fragile seventy-one year old woman. She was once a social worker, and since grandpa died eight years ago, she devoted herself in serving the St. Mary Convent in Georgia. Her daughter, dad’s sister, Annie Collins, was also a nun in the said convent. St. Mary Convent. Yup, it was once a home for me. I stayed there for almost a year – hiding. The nuns, together with my aunt Annie and grandma, helped me brought back my sanity. When dad died, I was so depressed. I became delinquent, irresponsible and hard to control. “Jade, we missed you. How’s your mom’s condition now?” “Mom is doing well, grandma, she just have to continue her medications.”

“Oh… I’m so sad for her. I hope she will totally recover.” Grandma replied. “What about Sapphire? Is she doing well with her studies?” Aunt Annie butted in. She was unpacking the bag of groceries I brought for the convent and the boxes full of gifts for the kids in the orphanage. “Yeah, she is. She’s a smart kid and manage her time very well, in studying and joining cosplay contest. Anime is really her passion.” “Oh… she’s still into that. Well, as long as it won’t hinder her studies.” “It won’t, auntie, don’t worry.” “I’m so happy for all the blessings you received this year, Jade. Your job, your schooling and the new house your mom won.” Grandma smiled, then her expression suddenly changed, tears welled in her eyes. “I’m sure your dad is very happy right now.” “Yeah, Ohhh Grandma, don’t start crying now. We should be merry.” “Well, I just miss your dad. I still cry everytime I remember him.” Grandma wiped her eyes. “ I wish I can visit New York, so I can see Ruby and Sapphire, and your beautiful new house.” “This summer, you and Aunt Annie can visit us. Promise, my treat.” “Oh dear, that would be wonderful!” Aunt Annie said excitedly. “I’m so happy that the old Jade is back now. It’s good that you already get rid of your black wig.” Grandma touched my waist- length ginger red hair, running her hand through it. “Where’s your eyeglasses?” “In my bag. I’m wearing the contact lens that the optometrist in our office prescribed on me.” “That’s nice, Jade. Well, you look beautiful with or without your eyeglasses.” I was in Georgia, and Georgia was freedom for me… the people here didn’t notice me, nobody knew me except for the women and nuns inside the four walls of the convent. I took my wig and eyeglasses off the moment I arrived in Georgia. The disguise was not necessary anymore because I was far from New York… the place where the demons in my past resided. I chose to wear my own clothes - skinny blue denim pants, white shirt and an ankle high brown boots. I showed the real me. “You are always very beautiful, my dear. Inside and out. Don’t cover your outer beauty again Jade. Outer beauty is not a disadvantage, it’s a precious gift from God, so cherish what you have. Let go of the past, and live for the future.” I nodded trying to absorb what grandma said. I wished it would be that simple, but it was not. It was not easy to erase the bad memories that sometimes haunted me at nights. But I still continued praying that eventually… and slowly… I would get over it.

Eros’ POV “You’re in Georgia? You are supposed to join us for dinner tonight, Eros.” My mom, Nina Petrakis said over the phone. “Your grandma Karina is here.” “I know mom, but this is an important deal. I’ll go home as soon as I’m done with this, okay?” “But Eros, your grandma is always asking for you.” “Just give her my love. Besides, she’s staying the whole week with us, we’ll have a lot of time to catch up with each other.” My grandmother, Karina Martins a.k.a. Karina Anderson, because she got married with my dad’s bodyguard, David Anderson. She was already seventy-three years old and lived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with her husband. “Okay, I’ll tell her. But be sure that you’ ll be back tomorrow night. It’s our family reunion. You aunt Claudia and uncle Raymund will be here, together with your cousins.” “Sure, don’t worry mom, I’ll be there.” I hung up my phone and put it inside my pants pocket. I took the newspaper lying on top of the coffee table and scanned the business section. I was waiting for my business meeting with Mr. Clark Morris, a property developer in Georgia, inside Starbucks Coffee Shop. I was sipping my espresso and realized that I was right. It was not as good as Jade’s coffee. I pushed the cup away from me and leaned my back on the chair. I was reading a business column when my eyes suddenly caught someone….someone very familiar, who came inside the coffee shop. Ginger-red long haired girl-woman, walking towards the cashier. She looked so stunning in her semi-rugged outfit. Jesus Christ! It’s her. I was afraid to blink, that if I did, she would suddenly disappear. This couldn’t be real… I felt like dreaming… hallucinating… and intoxicated by her beauty…. The room seemed to shrink and my chest tightened due to lack of air. Breathless… that’s what I felt seeing her again. Her lovely face glowed radiantly when she smiled, like that of the sun rays. She was amazingly beautiful, stunning and with a strikingly gorgeous body. She was absolutely every man’s dream girl. I was totally dumbstruck like a teenage boy. I was paralyzed on my seat. All of my body instantly turned numb and I was sweating profusely. Then, she smiled again and took her cold drink from the male barista. The barista instantly blushed. Damn it, he was just like me, dumbstruck.

She spun around and headed out of the coffee shop. I immediately stood up and followed her. I had to talk to her. Just in time, when she went out of the door, Mr. Clark Morris arrived. “Mr. Petrakis, I’m sorry I was a bit late. I have a visitor from Germany who arrived… “ “It’s okay, Mr. Morris. But, just a minute, I’ll be right back.” I pointed the table I recently occupied and hurriedly went to the door. I was outside the coffee shop, standing. My face and eyes roamed from left to right. I turned around and around, ran to every corner of the coffee shop desperately seeking… searching for her. She’s gone. She’s really gone without a trace. Jade’s POV I rode a bus on my way back to New York. This would be a long trip, about thirteen hours. It didn’t matter as long as I made my grandma and aunt Annie happy. Well, not only them, but also the kids in the orphanage. I planned to save more money for my next visit, so I could give more, probably books, bags and school supplies. I smiled at the thought of the kids, so excited to open their gifts. I looked out of the window and saw the beautiful houses and big trees outside, with just a few people walking at the sidewalk. I loved Georgia… the fresh air, the food and not so crowded like New York. I heaved a sigh and whispered. Bye Georgia! Till my next visit. I leaned back on my seat and listened to the music on my iPhone. Then I sipped my Starbucks Passion Lemonade Tea. ♪♬So take a look at me now There's just an empty space There's nothing left here to remind me Just the memory of your face ♪♯ ♫♭♪So take a look at me now 'Cause there's just an empty space And you're coming back to me, it's against the odds And that's what I've got to face ♫♩♪

Chapter Twenty (UNEDITED) 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. --Kindly put your playlist here— Eros’ POV “Hi, what’s your name?” I asked the girl sitting at the bar counter. I took the opportunity to approach her while she was – sober and alone. I saw her the moment she entered the bar. My eyes followed her since then. I just couldn’t take my eyes off her, I was awed by her beauty. Well, who wouldn’t? A very beautiful and gorgeous woman couldn’t escape from any man’s eyes. She looked so gorgeous in her skimpy red dress and red stilettos, emphasizing her tall and slender frame. She was a young woman, probably almost twenty years old. She had a soft face with rounded cheek bones, large eyes and proportionally slim nose. Her soft pouty pink lips and rounded chin complimented her charming smile. Her beautiful red hair cropped her soft face. The mane of her long hair glimmered down to her waist where it ended and her light skin luminated in the dark. Her overall physical features stirred deep inside me – my mind, body and soul. Damn it, no woman ever moved me like this before. For almost an hour, I’d been observing her. Men approached her every now and then, but she just shook her head, shrugged her slim shoulders or turned to the other direction. She was not entertaining men. She was just drinking with the girl she came in with, at the bar counter. Her friend dragged her to the dance floor, but she hesitated. She just wanted to stay in the bar to drink. But her friend was pretty insistent that eventually she was forced to consider and went to the dance floor with staggering steps. Ooopss, careful lady. I thought as she missed a step. She danced stiffly at first, but later on, she was dancing wildly to the music. She was whipping her red hair back and forth, swinging her arms and legs, and shaking her body. Then she made a slow grind with her hips, lowering her body to the floor. Damn! It made my jaw dropped open. She danced gracefully like a pro and her moves were so damn hot and sexy. She really knew how to turn on a man with just a sway of her hips.

The others stopped dancing, mostly men, and was fascinated by just looking at her. She was like a girl on fire in the dance floor, definitely a temptress - and too bad, I allowed myself to be tempted. After a while, she left her friend who was now dancing with another man. She went directly to the bar counter. I took my chance and followed her. I was sitting beside her in the bar for nearly ten minutes already, drinking whiskey, but still she didn’t notice me. She ordered a glass of cheap gin and drained it fast. Then she ordered another. She clearly wanted to get drunk that evening. She was holding her glass with her left hand when I intentionally asked her, in a commanding voice. “What time is it?” She jolted in surprise and abruptly turned her wrist inward to check the time on her wristwatch. “Aaaah!”She exclaimed as her drink spilled on her lap. Then she looked at me with murderous eyes. Damn, she still looks beautiful when she’s angry. “Oops, not my fault, lady.” I frowned at her. “I spilled my drink because you asked for the time. You’re even wearing a watch.” She said, grating her words angrily. She took a tissue paper on the counter and wiped her dress and her legs. I asked for some tissue paper from the bartender and gave it to her. Then I ordered ten glasses of gin in replacement of her spilled drink. “Are you trying to get me drunk?” She snarled at me, when she saw the glasses in front of her. “Why, isn’t that what you want?” “No… Yes. But this is just too many. You’re wasting your money. I can’t drink all of these.” “Don’t worry, I’ll help.” “Okay… we’ll drink together.” She arranged the glasses horizontally, in one line between us. “Cool.” I took a glass and drank the gin. I was not fond of drinking gin, but for her, I would. “What’s your name?” I asked her. “Hmm… you can call me anything.” “Oh, that’s an unusual name. Anything. Never heard of such name before.” “That’s not funny… I mean you can call me any names.” She answered stubbornly. “So, you won’t tell me your name. Why is that? Are you wanted by the FBI? Did you steal something?”

“It’s not funny.” She really wouldn’t tell me her name. A mysterious woman. “Okay, I’ll call you Red.” “Red?” “Yeah, because you’re a lady in red. Red dress, red stilettos and red hair.” “It’s ginger… I mean my hair is ginger red.” “Ginger…. That suits you, I’ll call you Ginger.” She was silent for a while. Then she said. “Yeah, Ginger… I like that.” She smiled and nodded. “And what’s your name?” “Hmm… nice try. I won’t tell you my real name. You can call me anything you want too.” I replied. She wanted to play a mystery game, then I was on it too. I was even dressed the part. Rugged, very rugged. I was wearing a worn out ripped jeans, plain black shirt and brown leather jacket. My hair was long like a rock star, and my beard was overgrown. I just graduated college two months ago and since then, I hadn’t cut my hair and shaved my beard. My appearance was definitely far from a billionaire’s son. No one would recognize me as Eros Petrakis here in this not so famous bar. “Okay… um… I’ll call you… Joseph.” I heard her said. “We will now land at the Petrakis building, sir.” My reverie was interrupted when I heard my helicopter pilot said on my aviation headset. “Ok sure, Mike.” I shifted on my seat, feeling so angry of myself. My blood boiled with rage and my head throbbed thinking of my hedious stupidity. I should have approached her immediately – talked to her. I’d been looking for her, for more than two years, and now that I found her, I lost her again. I was stupid, so so stupid. My fogged brain refused to function the moment I saw her. The helicopter finally landed on top of the Petrakis building, after how many turns the pilot did because of the bad weather. “Nice landing, Mike.” “Thanks Mr. Petrakis.” The pilot smiled, clearly relieved that he maneuvered the helicopter very well. I immediately went to my room. I took my phone and press Jade’s number. I needed a cup of coffee right now. It was the only thing that would help me relax. The number you’re calling is currently unavailable. A recorded operator’s voice answered. Damn it, where is she? I pressed her number again, and still I got the same response. I checked the time on my watch, it was ten in the evening.

I took the remote control to open the curtains of my floor to ceiling glass windows. I looked at the place where Jade and her family now resided. It was just a few blocks away from here and their house was very visible from my bedroom windows. I pressed her number again but still her phone was not available. Where is Jade? I started to get agitated when I couldn’t contact her. Instead of thinking about Ginger, I was thinking of Jade. Maybe, she was already asleep and turned her phone off. I groaned aloud and gave up calling her after the tenth time. Jade’s POV It was already early morning when I arrived in New York. My trip from Georgia was not really tiring, since I just slept in the bus the whole time. I was a heavy sleeper, so I could sleep wherever I was - on a chair, on a tub and on a toilet bowl when I was a kid. My phone’s battery was dead because I was listening to music all the time. I loved music and singing, but unfortunately, I had a terrible voice. I was out of tune. My dad gave up in teaching me how to sing. Well, I might not be a good singer, but I was a good dancer. I took up ballet lessons since I was six years old. I grew up performing in school and later on in theatres. But it suddenly ended, like a smoke. And now, I never dreamed of dancing again. I entered in our new house, using my key. I put down my old leather bag and the gifts that grandma and Aunt Annie sent for mom and Sapphire on a coffee table. I looked around the house, scanning the room and the furnitures. I still couldn’t believe that we had a house now… and not just an ordinary house… but a fully furnished family townhouse in New York. I sat down on a sofa chair and heaved a sigh. I didn’t know why I felt so suspicious about mom winning the house. It was just so… impossible. My eyes focused at the Christmas tree. Then looked at the single gift that was lying underneath it. Should I give it to him? What if he won’t like it? I immediately knelt down beside the Christmas tree and put the gift inside my bag. It was Sunday, so I went to church with my family. We had lunch in a fine dining restaurant, went shopping and watched a movie afterwards. It was almost six in the evening when we arrived home. I dug for the housekey inside my bag when the gift accidentally pulled off the bag when I removed my hand. Good thing that Sapphire was able to catch the gift.

“You should give this to your boss before you’ll break it.” “I will, tomorrow.” “Why not give it now?” “I don’t think he’s in his apartment. He’s probably in his parent’s mansion.” “Why don’t you give it a try. Anyway, it’s just a few blocks away.” “Yeah, you’re right. I’ll just freshen up.” I entered the house and immediately went to the bathroom. After a few minutes, I arrived in the Petrakis building. Doris opened the door in the penthouse. “Merry Christmas, Doris.” I hugged her and kissed her cheek. “Oh dear. Merry Christmas too. Thank you for your gift, Jade. I love the scarf.” “You’re welcome, Doris. Thanks for your gift too. Um… is Mr. Petrakis in here?” “Yes, he’s in his room dressing up. You’re just in time ‘cause he’s going to his family’s dinner party tonight. His grandma arrived from Brazil and also his aunt, uncle and cousins from Canada.” “Um… bad timing. I’m sure he’s in a hurry. I’ll just give my gift tomorrow.” “A gift?” Doris asked. “Er… Yes. I have to go.” I felt so awkward, when Doris raised her eyebrows. Maybe it was not appropriate for me to give him a gift. He was my employer. Besides, it was very unusual for his employees to give him a gift. I immediately turned towards the door, hurrying to get out of the penthouse. I didn’t want Mr. Petrakis to caught me in here. “Bye, Doris.” I opened the penthouse door to get out when someone suddenly said. “Jade?” Ooohhh. I spun around slowly and saw Mr. Petrakis standing their at a distance, looking so handsome in his black suit. His eyes were riveted on mine. I looked around for Doris, hoping for a rescue, but she instantly left us alone. “Hi… um… Good evening sir… I just dropped by to give you…” I opened my bag and dug the gift out. “… this.” I moved towards him, and he was moving towards me too with easy strides, then we met in the middle of the living room. “What’s this?” He smiled and took the gift.

“My Christmas gift, for you sir… er.. um… Merry Christmas.” He immediately opened the gift, like an excited child. Tearing the gift wrapper and the box. His eyes lit up when he saw the espresso mug. “I hope you like it. It’s not expensive like the… um… Ming Dynasty cup, but… it’s an ideal cup to use for your espresso.” He was silent for a while. Staring at the espresso mug again, like he was finding it so strange. Then he smiled again and said. “Thank you. I like it.” I sighed, thanking God that he appreciated my gift. “I have to go sir. Um… bye.” “Wait, don’t go yet.” He said and instantly disappeared. Probably back to his room. I waited and after a minute, he came back with an orange paperbag. “Merry Christmas, Jade. This is my gift for you. Hope you’ll like it too.” He smiled and handed his gift to me. I opened the paperbag. My eyes widened when I saw what was inside. It was a very beautiful brown Hermes bag. “I…. I can’t take this. I know this is a very expensive bag.” I tried to hand the paperbag back to him, but he wouldn’t accept it. “No… no… it’s not. That bag was on sale. It was outdated, so I paid it at a very cheap price.” I decided not to question him about the price anymore and just accept the gift. I knew it was heartily given. I nodded at him. “Um.. thanks for the gift, sir. I have to go now. Merry Christmas.” I spun around and walked towards the door. “Wait.” I stopped and turned to him again. “How would you like to come with me tonight.” “Tonight?” I looked at my loose brown floral dress then looked at him. “Yes.” He replied. “Doris said you’re going to a family dinner, sir.” “Well, it is, but I need you there… as my… personal assistant.” “But I’m not properly dress for a party.” “No, don’t worry you look fine.” He immediately took his dinner jacket off, tucked out his shirt and pulled the sleeves of his shirt to his elbows. Then he rubbed his neatly combed hair with his hand to make a mess on it. “Let’s go?” He asked and gave me a heartwarming smile. I didn’ have a choice, so I nodded.

Hello readers! This is not an update of TGHNN, but to clarify Chapter 20: - The first part of EROS' POV was a FLASHBACK. (yeah.. yeah... I know it was not nicely done, lol) - In the flashback, Jade was drinking because she just lost her dad and felt heartbroken about her ultimate crush, Joseph --- Remember... she was rejected by joseph and he left her when she needed him most to go to South Africa for a medical mission. - Joseph was already in South Africa when Jade's dad died - In the flashback, Jade was 18 and Eros was 22 -- when they met in the bar--- that's almost 3 years ago. - In the flashback, Eros had facial hair and long hair -- and Jade was wearing contact lens. She was also slightly drunk. - When Eros said that he will just call her 'Ginger' -- that made Jade stop and she remembered Joseph calling her 'Ginger' too. - Since Eros won't tell Jade his real name too, therefore, Jade decided to call him Joseph. She wanted to pretend just for one night that she was with Joseph (her lost love) -- which was Eros in the flesh. -Therefore, Eros is not Joseph. So... ***What will happen when Eros finds out that Jade and Ginger is the same? ***How would Eros feel once he knew that a real guy named Joseph existed in Jade's life?

Chapter Twenty One (UNEDITED) “Beauty isn’t about having a pretty face. It’s about having a pretty mind, pretty heart and pretty soul.” --- Anonymous --Kindly put your playlist here— Eros’ POV “What are you thinking? This is a family affair.” My mom, Nina Petrakis said when she asked to talk to me inside the music room. “You shouldn’t have brought your personal assistant.” “And why is it that the Valientes are here? They’re not a member of our family.” “Eros, we’re hoping that someday, they will be. It is our wish for you to marry Stella and you even considered it, remember?” Stella was on top of the list of candidates that my parents wanted me to marry, and their matchmaking plan really drove me crazy. “For Christ’s sake, that was five years ago, I was a teenager and drunk at that time. You shouldn’t believe everything I’ve said before. Besides, I just agreed to everything you and dad said to avoid any argument.” “But you always find her beautiful. Look at her now, she blossoms to a very fine lady.” “Mom, I find every girl beautiful. It doesn’t make any difference.” I groaned out aloud. Yeah, Stella Valiente was the only daughter of Rafael Valiente, an Italian billionaire and one of the world’s top oil tycoon. Her mother was Natalie Monteiro, Iñigo’s aunt. Stella always looked so delicate, fragile, very classy, so prim and proper like royalty. With her raven black hair and flawless white skin… she was like a porcelain doll. Yeah, and she was treated as such by her family, especially by her three older brothers, Franco, Manuel and Xander. They were like wolves who tried to intimidate me, thinking that I should bow down to them cause I would be marrying their sister. Stupid jerks. They should have known by now that I didn’t bow down to anyone. I was more powerful than those idiots, when it comes to power, influence in the business world, reputation and money. “Look at you. You’re not even dressed appropriately. Where’s your dinner jacket?” She was glaring at me angrily. “Our sitting arrangement is ruined and there’s no enough room in the table. Our chef prepared for twelve persons only.” I frowned then went behind my mom, then gently massaged her back. “You’re making a fret on minor things, mother. It’s not good for you. You will just have more wrinkles under your eyes. Jade will take my seat. I’m not hungry anyway. I’ll just grab a sandwich in the kitchen later.” “You’re impossible! You know I can’t do that.” I chuckled and continued massaging her spine. “Have her sit beside me, okay?”

Mom sighed heavily. “I’ll go to the kitchen and ask the chef to make room for another guest.” “Thanks mom.” Mom turned to go, but stopped before she opened the door. “The bag that Jade is using now, did you give it to her?” I let out a long, audible breath. She noticed the bag. Well, that was expected. Mom had a collection of expensive bags and she was an expert of identifying what is fake and original. “Yes.” I admitted. She nodded. “Your dad gave me the same bag but in black color, for a Christmas gift. It’s the latest collection of Hermes and obviously cost a fortune. Did she know that?” “Probably not.” I shrugged my shoulders. “And you just gave her a new townhouse.” She raised her fine, arched eyebrows. “Which she thought her mother won in a supermarket.” Holy f**kingsh*t! Who told her about it? It was supposed to be a secret. Mothers! They tend to know everything when it comes to their children. “Don’t worry, son, your secret is safe with me. Your dad and Chloe don’t know anything about it.” “Who told you?” I nodded disappointedly. I always wanted privacy. If possible, I didn’t want anyone knowing all my actions, even my family. “Samantha. She was having a business meeting with the real estate manager, when you called him to look for a house. She kept on updating me since then about it.” Samantha Miller Monteiro. Iñigo’s mother and mom’s close friend. They always loved to share their children’s stories and secrets. Women! “I know what I’m doing mom, and its my money. I worked hard for it. I can spend every penny I got with whatever I want to.” I replied defensively, shoving my hands deeper inside my pants pockets. “Of course you can, son.” She smiled, reassuring me that she wouldn’t get in my way or contradict any decision I made. “I just wonder if it’s part of your charitable works or… there’s something going on between you and Jade, that I should know.” I grinned at her and shook my head. “You’re just overthinking. Go and advise the chef mom. Your guests are starving.” “Yah, yah… we’ll talk again later.” She said and went out of the room. Jade’s POV I shouldn’t be here… I didn’t belong here. Everyone was looking at me strangely, from head to foot. I looked like a piece of rag to the ladies’ expensive looking satin, sequined, laced cocktal dresses and diamond studded stilettos. They all looked so beautiful in their makeups, neatly combed hairstyles and gliterring jewelries. I felt so out of place. I wished the floor would open up and swallowed me deep down under.

I remembered the reaction of Eros’ mom when I was introduced to her. Her eyes widened with shock and she was looking at her son with questions in her eyes like, Why did you bring an extra baggage? But when she recovered, she greeted me nicely and introduced me to her husband, Eros’ father, Mr. Markos Petrakis. “Honey, I want you to meet Jade Collins. She used to be Eros’ household staff and now, she’s his new personal assistant.” “Yah, of course.” Mr. Petrakis put his arm around his wife’s shoulders and held her close. “Nice meeting you again Jade.” He smiled at me then looked at his wife. “You know honey, Eros is addicted to Jade’s coffee. He said it was the best coffee that he’d ever tasted.” “Yes, I know. Eros told me about it and I would love to try it some time.” Mrs. Petrakis said. “Sure, Mrs. Petrakis. Just tell when.” Mrs. Petakis smiled and excused herself. I saw her went to Eros and together they left the living room. Mr. Markos Petrakis asked me about the ingredients in my coffee. Then he told me about the delicious coffee he’d tasted in different countries. The richness of Costa Rica coffee, the flavors of Jamaican coffee and the boldness of Puerto Rican coffee. “What is this, a lecture about coffee?” I heard a feminine voice said behind me. I turned around and saw a very beautiful young brunette smiling at me. She was a perfection, flawless and very stunning. She stood out among all the beautiful girls in the room. “Dear, I’m just telling Jade about the coffee I tried. Do you know that she makes good coffee?” “Really? Wow. Our family loves coffee. Especially dad and Eros. By the way, I’m Chloe.” “I’m Jade, Er… Mr. Eros Petrakis’ personal assistant.” “Oh, I see. I thought, you’re his date.” Her eyebrows raised questioningly. “Um… no.. of course not… mam.” She laughed and said. “I’m just teasing you, Jade. Just call me Chloe.” “Excuse me ladies. Jade, I’ll leave you with Chloe.” “Yes, Mr. Petrakis. Um.. thank you.” It was so awkward being alone with Eros sister, Chloe Petrakis. Although she was so nice and often gave me a comfortable smile—I couldn’t help being intimidated. She looked like a princess, a moviestar… I was starstruck by her overall appearance.

“How would you like to see our rose garden, Jade?” “Sure. I love roses.” I immediately agreed and followed her. The rose garden was very beautiful. Roses in different colors - red, white, peach, yellow and pink – bloomed and the fragrance dominated the air. It smelled so fresh and heavenly. The area was landscaped beautifully too. Roses with the same color were grouped together and surrounded with big stones. “This area used to be our playground when we were kids. But when I went to college, Eros started planting roses here every weekend. He shovelled the dirt and landscape it himself.” “He planted all the roses?” “Yup, every single one. Mom became so lonely that we were both seldom at home. At least it kept her busy and happy at the same time.” I was impressed with my boss. I could see how much he loved his mother. I realized that the was a domesticated guy too. He loved cooking and gardening. Chloe picked a small peach rose and put it behind my right ear. Then, she was eyeing me, up and down, assessing my appearance. I felt embarrassed all of a sudden. “You’re very beautiful. You just don’t want to flaunt it.” She said. “I’m not.” “You are Jade. I know a real beauty when I see one… and I can see why Eros likes you.” “Um, I think you misinterpreted my being here tonight.” She showed her perfect smile again then shook her head. “You’re the first woman he brought in the house to meet his family - and the way he looks at you was… different…. special. I like that you also sound level headed. It’s annoying sometimes, how many women find him so devastatingly attractive. They even used me. They wanted to be my friends in order to get close to him.” “No… he’s just my employer, mam.” “Call me, Chloe.” “I mean, Chloe. He said he needed me tonight for a dictation.” “Hahaha… he said that? Don’t believe everything he’ve said. I’m positive, he likes you.” “I don’t think so. Our relationship is merely the same as that of a typical boss and an employee.” She was eyeing my new bag. “My brother doesn’t believe in love and romance. He saw what love did to people, who suffered and almost died because of it… like what happened to my parents. For him, love is cruel, it destroys people. He doesn’t want to be a slave on it.” “He probably never been in love before.” “Definitely. Have you been in love, Jade?” “Um.. yes. But he didn’t love me back.” “That’s sad. We’re just the same. My first love was worse. He’s evil and he’s my brother’s best friend. He put me into years of misery. Until now, I still couldn’t accept what he did to me. I despised him.” Her brother’s best friend? That was Iñigo Monteiro. “But you won’t be happy if you keep on hating someone. Hate cannot drive out hate. If you want to forget him, then, don’t hate him. Learn to forgive and forget.” Chloe heaved a frustrated sigh. “It’s not easy as that. But I’ll think about what you’ve said. You have a point in there.” She smiled and moved closer to me. We were admiring the beautiful roses in front of us. “I can see that you’re a good judge of character, Jade. I know that that’s one of the reasons why Eros likes you.” “Um… yes, as his P.A.” “Eros needs to be reminded from time to time that he’s not God. He’s so domineering and controlling because of his power and money. I don’t understand him sometimes.” A smile touched her lips again. “You’re frightening her, Chloe. I don’t think I’ll ever forgive you if Jade will pass her resignation letter tomorrow.” Eros commanding voice made us jolt with surprise. Both of us instantly turned to him, who was leaning against the doorframe of the balcony’s sliding door. “OH! I’m just giving her my opinion about you, big bro. How nice, loving and caring you are. Exactly an ideal brother, right Jade?” I just smiled and shifted my eyes from Eros’ strikingly handsome features to Chloe’s beautiful and stunning look. “It’s time for dinner. Both of you should come inside now.”

Chapter Twenty Two (UNEDITED) "Even more, I had never meant to love him. One thing I truly knew - knew it in the pit of my stomach, in the center of my bones, knew it from the crown of my head to the soles of my feet, knew it deep in my empty chest - was how love gave someone the power to break you" ― Stephenie Meyer, Twilight --Kindly put your playlist here-- Eros' POV "Hi, how are you?" I greeted Stella, then gave her a light hug. "I'm fine, thank you." She placed her hand on my forearm. "You didn't come to my birthday party last month." "I was in Russia." I moved a step away that made her hand slipped down from my forearm. "I was expecting you." She quickly replied. Her pink lips curved in her usual charming smile. I chuckled. "My business deals are more important to me than crossing countries just to attend parties, Stella." She dropped her lashes quickly, probably to hide the hurt. "I understand. You're a busy man, like my papa." I suddenly felt guilty. Why I was so mean to her. The matchmaking plan was not even her own doings. Practically, Stella was an ideal wife for someone like me. She was a billionaire's daughter and she knew how to behave as a billionaire's wife. She was trained and raised to be one. Aside from that, we have a lot of common friends, the same connections, and the same people we hung out with. Every now and then, we saw each other in parties, special occassions and events. Our parents were close friends and her first cousin, Iñigo, was even my best friend. Our parents wanted Stella and I to get married someday. For obvious reason. To unite the empires of Petrakis and Valiente in the business world. But, I was not foolish to fall for that trap. I would never marry someone just for that reason. I was a strong- willed person, I chose who and when I would marry. No one could dictate me, not even my parents. The Valiente's group of companies was just a slice of a pie compared to the Petrakis' worldwide shipping empire. Merging of two companies would mean, sharing - and that would mean loss, liability, disadvantages on our part. Selfish? I didn't call it selfishness. It was being reasonable. Choosing the right people to share with and to trust. The business world was flooded with hungry sharks wanting to compete, to destroy, to manipulate and to rule. I was seated at the other end of the rectangular dining table, opposite dad. I was between Stella and Jade. Stella was talking to my cousin Paul, who was obviously fascinated by her. Jade on the other hand, was a gauche in the social world. She just eat silently and listened to the conversation. She seemed so fascinated with the food, the dessert and the wine in front of her. We were all thirteen seated at the dining table. Dad, mom and Chloe. There was my grandma, Karina Martins Anderson. My mom's sister Claudia and her husband, uncle Raymund and their children Paul and Cassandra. Then the Valientes, Stella and her parents, Rafael and Natalie. Of course, me and Jade. Dad and Rafael Valiente dominated the conversation in the dining table. They were talking about business again. They often dragged me to join in their conversation, but I just answered what they asked and refused to elaborate further. For goodness sake, this is a family dinner, not a business conference. "So how's your Christmas concert, Cassandra." I asked my cousin, Cassandra, who was a famous pop singer in Canada.

"It was great. The venue was full and the audience really enjoyed it. It was a very successful event." "I heard that all proceeds of your concert will go to the foundation for kids sufferring from cancer in Canada." Grandma asked Cassandra. "Yes, that's right." "I admire you dear for your good deeds, keep it up." "Thank you, grandma." "I would love to hear you sing for us later, Cassandra. And... Chloe can play her violin too, just like old times sake." Grandma's eyes shifted from Cassandra to Chloe. "Sure." Chloe smiled. She was not a professional violinist but she played violin very well. She used to perform in school, parties and events. "Oh! Let's ask Stella to play the piano too. She won third place last year in a piano competition in Italy." Mom shrilled excitedly. "Of course, she will. Right Stella." Natalie Valiente asked her daughter. "Yes, mom." "I'm excited for the girls to perform later." Aunt Claudia said giggling with enthusiasm. Everyone laughed at Aunt Claudia's reaction. "Wait." Paul almost shouted and interrupted everyone's laughter. Then he said. "What about you Jade? How would you like to join the girls in performing later?" Jade's eyes suddenly widened with alarm. She was shocked by Paul's suggestion. At that moment, I wished to strangle Paul and punch his fucking big mouth. Jade couldn't sing well and with her status in life, she probably didn't know how to play any musical instruments. "No... no.. leave Jade out of this, Paul. She's a very shy girl." I shook my head, didn't like the idea of including Jade into it. "Come on, Eros. Don't be a big daddy to Jade. She can decide for herself." Paul insisted and made me glared at him with annoyance. Everyone looked at Jade, waiting for her to answer. Her eyes raised and meet mine. Then her eyes shifted from one person to the other in the dining table. Then finally, she nodded. Damn it! A few minutes later, everyone gathered in the living room. Cassandra started singing her own version of Beyonce Knowles' 'Listen.' ♪ ♬♮Listen to the song here in my heart A melody I start but can't complete Listen to the sound from deep within It's only beginning to find release ♫ ♬♭♮ ♯ ♭♬Oh, the time has come for my dreams to be heard They will not be pushed aside and turned Into your own all 'cause you won't Listen ♫♪♯ I was sweating profusely. Fidgeting. Edgy. Hell! I was nervous for Jade - and she was there, sitting on a couch with Chloe, clearly enjoying herself listening to Cassandra's amazing voice. Why did she nod? Didn't she know that she had a horrible singing voice? I didn't want her to be humiliated infront of my family. ♬♭♮Listen, I am alone at a crossroads I'm not at home in my own home And I've tried and tried to say what's on my mind You should have known (oh) ♯ ♩♪ ♬♯♪Oh, now I'm done believing you You don't know what I'm feeling I'm more than what you made of me I followed the voice you gave to me But now I've gotta find my own ♩♫♪♮

Finally, the song ended and it was Chloe's turn to play the violin. She played my grandma's all time favorite song 'Moon River.' Chloe played the violin so well, she always did especially the piece, Moon River - she'd been playing that piece since she was twelve years old. Everyone applauded when Chloe reached the last note and bowed down. My restlessness escalated as Stella started playing the piano. Jade will be next. I cringed at the thought of everyone laughing when they would hear Jade's version of Whitney Houston's 'I Will Always Love You.' I didn't want Jade to be embarrassed or laughed at by anyone, especially by my family. Stella played the piano very well, but the piece she chose was kinda noisy- and irritating to the ears. It was not music anymore and not soothing to the ears. Yeah, her piece proved that she was a good pianist, but it would be ideal if she played that piece in competitions with big audience and in big auditorium. Playing it now in a small room and in a small group... was deafening. When Stella was done, everyone applauded. Obviously relieved that it finally ended. Stella smiled charmingly and curtsied. Then Paul called Jade for her turn. Damn it, she will be humiliated. I wanted to tell Paul not to force Jade to sing but she already stood up and shyly went towards the piano. I thought she's going to sing? She sat down on the chair in front of the piano and put her hands on the keyboard. Then she started playing a few keys... damn it, it was out of tune! "Sorry." She smiled and scratched her forehead, her face turned red with embarrassment. "I'm going to play, River Flows In You." Everyone clapped their hands, encouraging her to continue. Then she played again. It started with a few notes... one at a time... very slowly, then a paused... Thanks goodness she finally got the right keys. I held my breath, hoping that her fingers would hit the right keys when she resumed. My eyes never left her, studying her with curious intensity. Jade continued playing the piano... slowly and then beautifully. I was surprised. I smiled with relief and felt so proud of her. I was so awed by the way her emotions poured in the music, that I could feel it straight to my heart, and I guessed, everyone felt it too. I was amazed that she played the piano very well and wonderfully. Jade was really full of surprises. Everyone applauded when she hit the last key. "That's wonderful." My grandma hugged Jade. "You made me cry... the emotions were there, I could feel it." "Thank you, Mrs. Anderson. I'm glad you like it." "I love it. That piece was so beautiful and you played it so well." Later, Cassandra sang again. I called Jade and talked to her in the balcony. "I didn't know that you can play a piano." "Um... I really don't, sir." "What do you mean? You just played a while ago." "It's the only piece I know." She smiled at me, showing her braced teeth.

"Really?" I chuckled. "You played it well." "Thanks. I learned it from my aunt Annie in the convent." "In the convent? Why are you in ...?" "Eros, mom asked if you can have dinner with us tomorrow night? We're staying here in New York for a week." Stella suddenly appeared behind me and interrupted my conversation with Jade. "I don't think so, Stella. I'm so busy." "Even at nights?" Her fine arched eyebrows rose. My eyes sent Jade a private message that she surely would understand. "Jade, can you check if I'm available tomorrow night?" Jade instantly took her organizer inside her new bag. "Um... tomorrow... " She was flipping the pages of her organizer. "You have a dinner engagement with Sheikh Raschid and his wife." "See? I'm busy." I slightly shrugged my shoulders. "How about Tuesday or Wednesday night?" Stella insisted. Her eyes immediately sharpened. Jade flipped her organizer again and said. "On Tuesday night, you have a video conference with the Japanese investors and on Wednesday, you have a charitable fundraising event to attend. Thursday, you will fly to California till Sunday." Stella's expression suddenly changed. She was clearly annoyed. "Okay, I get the message now, loud and clear. So, I'll see when I see you." "Yeah, that's right." When Stella left, I chuckled and said. "Good job, Jade." Jade's POV Almost all night I was with Chloe and Cassandra. I was just listening to them talking about clothes, makeups, boys, their travels and career. It was awkward at first, but later on I enjoyed being with them. They were actually nice to me. I suddenly got thirsty so I asked Chloe where I could ask some water. "I'm thirsty too. Come, I'll show you the kitchen." I followed Chloe to their kitchen. It was very huge and beautiful. The kitchen was surrounded with glass cabinets. The plates, glasses, cups and saucers where displayed inside. I studied the beautiful chinawares inside the glass cabinet when my eyes suddenly caught something very familiar... a Chinese Ming Dynasty cup!

CHAPTER TWENTY THREE (UNEDITED) "A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous." - by Ingrid Bergman --Kindly put your playlist here-- Jade’s POV The Ming Dynasty cup! I looked at the cup closely, studying every detail. I couldn’t be wrong. The cup that I accidentally broke was a replica of this one. My heart instantly beat faster and a cold sweat ran down my back. Confused and disturbed. No. Eros said that the broken cup was an antique, Chinese Ming Dynasty cup worth 36 million dollars. It was a rare piece, an only one. “Are you okay? You looked like you’ve seen a ghost.” Chloe asked me. She was standing behind me, holding a glass of water. “Here’s your water.” “Thanks.” I took the glass and drank the water heartily. Then I put the glass on top of the counter. “Um… this cup is antique, right?” I asked Chloe, pointing a finger at the chinese cup inside the glass cabinet. “That?” Chloe laughed lightly, looking so amused. “Of course not. Mom is not fond of antique items, especially cups and plates.” “But, isn’t this a priceless Ming Dynasty cup?” My mind reeled with confusion. “What are you talking about? Mom and I bought that cup in Walmart.” “In Walmart? You mean… really?” I couldn’t believe what I’d just heard. The Chinese Ming Dynasty cup was bought in Walmart? I couldn’t comprehend what she’d just said. My brain refused to function well. “Yeah and it only cost a dollar.” “A dollar? A… dol-lar!” My voice rose in surprise. I was stunned and tried to organized my thoughts. “Yes. I should know better since I was the one who picked it up. I love oriental designs. Why are you so surprised?” “ I saw a similar cup at your brother’s house.” “I see, mom gave him a few stuffs from the house when he had his own penthouse. We have plenty of that cup here in the bottom drawer.” Chloe opened a drawer and showed me about half a dozen boxes of the same cup. I was momentarily speechless in shock – and then I was breathless with rage. He fooled me. He really fooled me. The cup that I accidentally broke was not a 36 million-dollar Chinese Ming Dynasty cup. It was just the same as these cups that cost only a dollar at Walmart! I inhaled deeply, trying to control my anger. “Chloe, can I ask you a favor?”

“Sure, what is it?” Eros’ POV “That was a great performance, I’m impressed.” No answer. Her faced averted to the window outside of my Bugatti Veyron. “So, you learned how to play piano in the convent.” No answer. She shifted in her seat and closed her eyes. Okay fine. She didn’t want to talk to me. What was her problem? Her silence was killing me. I looked at my watch, it was almost midnight. Then I looked at her, curled in the passenger seat. “It’s late and I know you’re tired. You don’t have to go to my apartment tomorrow morning. I’ll just fetch you at your house at nine.” Still no answer. Dammit. She was getting on my nerves now. What was the matter with her? Did I say or do something wrong? “Jade.” I said firmly, in my very authoritative voice. No answer. I looked at her again. I knew she was only pretending to be asleep. I was sure she was upset on something… or someone. The thought of her being upset, disturbed me. I parked the car outside their house. I saw her stirred before I could turn off the ignition then she took something from her bag – a box. “Here, this is for you. I hope you’re happy now, Mr. Petrakis.” She threw her words to me like stones. What’s wrong with her? “What’s this, another Christmas gift?” I smiled at her, to liven her mood. She didn’t reply, only shot me a cold look. “Are you okay? You looked so upset.” “Open it.” She replied in a low voice, taut with anger. I opened the box and saw a familiar cup inside – Oh-oh, busted. “Whoa! Another espresso cup. Thank you.” Her green eyes turned dark and dazzled with fury. “Don’t you recognized it? It’s the same cup that I accidentally fell inside your bedroom.” I was really busted. This explained why she was so upset. She saw the cup in the mansion. Chloe. She had something to do about it.

“Is it?” Deny. Deny. Deny. I pretended examining the cup, taking my time to think for a justifiable reason for what I did. “It’s not.” “It is. This cup was bought by your mom in Walmart for a dollar together with that broken cup. It’s not an antique or a Chinese Ming Dynasty cup.” “Really? Well, I didn’t know that.” I shrugged my shoulders and put the box at the backseat. “Is that all you’re going to say? You didn’t know?” Her lips thinned with anger. “You threatened to put me into prison if I won’t work for you because I broke a 36 million-dollar antique cup!” “I did?” “You know you did, stop lying.” Her voice was cold and lashing. “Jade, it’s late. We’ll talk about this tomorrow, okay?” “No. We have to settle this now. You lied to me.” Her voice trembled like she was about to cry. I felt guilty. I threatened - blackmailed her to continue working with me. I lied and hurt her. I felt like a beast right now. “I’m sorry, Jade.” She shook her head, disbelievingly. “Why did you lie to me?” She almost whispered. “You know the reason why. I need my coffee.” “Your coffee… just because of your coffee.” Her lips curved in a sarcastic smile. “You know what? You are like a spoiled boy. Everything you want, you get it in just a snap of your fingers. You use your money to control and manipulate people.” What she said hit a nerve. Damn. “If you think that I lived an easy life because I was born rich, then you are wrong. I struggled too. You don’t know the pressures I endured just to be where I am now.” “I bet that pressures didn’t include worrying where to get money to buy food for the next meal or pay for the house rental and the bills.” She was becoming hysterical now. “You’re very tired and sleepy. You need to rest.” I went out of the car and turned to the passenger door to open the door for her. But, she opened the passenger door, before I could grab hold of the door handle. She went out and headed to their house main door. I followed her. I didn’t know why. The thought of her so mad at me, was something that disturbed me – a lot. Before she could open the main door, she turned to me and poked her forefinger on my chest. “You lied to me and you threatened me. What kind of a man are you? I don’t like you, I really don’t like you.” Her eyes were blazing with intense anger. “Then you have no choice, you are stuck with me.” I glared back at her. “Not anymore, rich boy.” “Don’t you ever call me that.” No one ever dared call me rich boy or any other names before. Coming from Jade, made me want to punish her… but no… I couldn’t do that to her. “I can call you whatever I want, because you’re not my boss anymore. I’m going to tender my resignation tomorrow.” “Okay, you try, and I’m going to sue you for breach of contract. You signed an employment contract, remember.” “HA! That’s what you’re good at, blackmailing people. The hell with that contract. I don’t care anymore.” She said stubbornly. “What is your problem? You should be thankful that you still have a job and a good salary – you’re even promoted to a secretary. You know damn well that no one would hire you as a secretary because of your lack of experience.” “I would rather work as a janitress than working with a liar, maniputative and controlling bastard like you.” What she said really made me furious. She was a hot tempered woman, a scattered brain and very stubborn. “A bastard huh?” “Yes, you are a BASTARD.” “Okay, let’s see what this bastard can do.” In one fluid motion, I pulled her roughly and violently towards me. Then my mouth swooped down to capture hers - and gave her a punishing kiss.

Nawha for dhx kiss

Chapter Twenty Five (Unedited) “The best feeling is, when you look at him and he is already staring.” -- Kindly put your playlist here -- *** One year later *** Jade’s POV “Happy New Year!” About a million revelers packed at New York’s Times Square, cheered so loud the moment the clock struck midnight. The city’s annual ball dropped and exploded with amazing colorful fireworks. The whole area was rained with confettis. The place was filled with joy and laughter from the revelers, welcoming the New Year. Everyone was happy. Hugging. Kissing. Some shedded a tear, but not of sadness… only with happiness, hope and a chance – to get things right. It was like starting a new life, a new beginning and setting a new goal – like the first blank page of a 365 page book. I was in Times Square with my sister, Sapphire – and our close friends, as well as our neighbors, Jason, Walter, Vera and Megan. Jason and Walter were the gay couples who lived next door. They adopted a cute baby girl, named Thea. My mom babysat her every day. Jason worked as a journalist in a renowned daily newspaper in New York. He was a print ad model before because of his very handsome physical features. Jason’s partner, Walter, was a makeup artist. He worked in a celebrity beauty salon in Manhattan. Vera and Megan were sisters. Vera was an Occupational Therapist while the younger one, Megan, was a nurse. They lived with their father, a widower, Dr. Simon Barnes in the door next to Jason’s and Will’s. We really had a good time. We drank beer and ate in an exciting new bar and grill located in the heart of Times Square. One of the best New York’s DJ was spinning the hottest tunes into the wee hours. We were dancing, singing, cheering with glee. We were on our way home when I bumped at someone - my officemate, Rodrick. He was from the Architecture and Interior Design Department - and known as a party animal. He was with his friends also. There were about six of them, mostly female. “Jade, you’re here! Unbelievable. I thought you just stayed home, knitting sweaters for cats on New Year’s eve! Hahaha!” Rodrick laughed loudly. His friends mimicked him and laughed out loud also. “Hi, Rodrick. Happy New Year.” I smiled at him. “What’s so funny, honey?” Jason who was standing behind me intruded. “Honey?” Rodrick asked. One of his eyebrows rose questioningly.

“Yes, HONEY. That’s an endearment for lovers. Or do I have to spell it out for you?” “OH, sorry man… I thought… I didn’t know that she has a boyfriend.” Rodrick stammered. He retreated by moving a step backward. “Now you know. We’ve been going on for while.” Jason lifted his chin a bit. He looked irritated with Rodrick’s snootiness. “Really?” Rodrick focused his eyes on me. His eyes widened with curiousity. “Um… er… ah….” I was the one stammering now. I couldn’t lie. Ohhh… why did Jason have to lie. I’m sure, I’ll be the center of the gossips when I get back to work on Monday. “Yeah, since college.” Jason replied. “Ah… by the way. I’m Rodrick Philips, I’m an Interior Designer of Petrakis Group of companies. Jade and I are officemates.” Jason nodded and also introduced himself. “Jason Smith, journalist.” “Hey guys, we have to go now.” Walter, Jason’s real partner appeared and asked us to hurry up. “Bye Rodrick. See you in the office.” “Bye Jade, Happy New Year.” Rodrick replied and gave me a peace sign. One year and eight months. That was the time I worked with Eros, preparing his coffee and eventually as his personal assistant. Since Pamela Leech left the office, I worked closely with him to provide secretarial and administrative tasks. I acted as his first point of contact with people from inside and outside the organization, like maintaining the office systems, taking notes and dictations at meetings, screening phone calls, enquiries and requests, meeting visitors at all levels of seniority, organizing and maintaining diaries and making appointments, dealing with his incoming emails, faxes and post, producing documents, briefing papers, reports and presentations, organizing and attending meetings and ensuring that he was well prepared for meeting, liaising with clients, suppliers and other staffs. I also did very personal stuffs for him, like buying gifts or flowers for his family or friends (including lady friends) either in special occasions or no occasion. I made an appointment for his haircut, for his suit fittings, for his dentist’s appointment, etc. I bought his shirts, I chose his neckties… and no, not his underwears. I was with Eros, in every business engagement he attended, no matter where it was. In Dublin, Istanbul, Amsterdam, Hongkong, Tokyo, Dubai, Qatar, Australia, etc. Yes, It was a dream come true – to travel around the world, experiencing different cultures, meeting people with different races and sightseeing. He also asked me to accompany him in charitable fund raising events, in parties or events where he was a speaker, guest of honor, cut the ribbons, etc. But more often, during family occasions: birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and reunions. And of course – I still made his coffee. I realized that no matter what kind of coffee bean it was and no matter what kind of water I used, he still loved the coffee I made.

Thanks for the update.. 'Love do play it games somehow sometimes'

Please Shaxee continue Dating the bad girl. I missed that story

Oh God! I dnt even knw where i stopped aqain... I really need 2 scroll back

U r wlcm bk 2 d site shaxee,more grease 2 ur elbow

I worked Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and 9am to 12noon every Saturday. I seldom did overtime works since Eros considered the fact that I had to attend my online studies also. Actually, I managed my work and my studies very well. It was just a matter of time management. He fetched me every morning on our way to work. I told him that he didn’t have to, but he insisted. He said he just wanted to make sure that I wouldn’t be absent or get late, because he didn’t tolerate late employees. He bought me flowers, chocolates, cakes, fruits, perfume, a camera, books, wallet, etc. He enjoyed giving me gifts even without any occasion. “Do you like it?” He always asked every time he gave me something. “Yes, I love it.” He often nodded and gave me a satisfied smile, then he would turn around and leave. Oftentimes, he would ask me about my assignments. And there were times that he would help me on it. He was so brilliant, being a businessman and all. Feeding me with knowledge in organizing a company, teaching me the strategies in planning, directing the people and controlling the whole organization set up. He became my mentor. Aside from business, he enjoyed talking about the current events. He read the newspaper every morning and watched the news on TV or in the internet everynight. He often engaged me in talking about it. So, I did the same, keeping myself updated to the news also, so I could relate on him. Now, I became interested on it, made me realized how important it was to keep ourselves aware of what was happening in our country and in the whole world. When we were alone caught in a traffic or inside the plane, he often made me laughed and giggled. He told me about the corniest jokes he’d ever heard. The funny movies he watched and the book The Lord Of The Rings he’d read and admired - an epic high fantasy novel. He also enjoyed telling me about weird facts and amazing stories about people and countries. I learned a lot from him. Lately, he became vulnerable. He looked so bothered and confused. He was just sitting behind his desk, thinking. He was not in the mood to work anymore. “Are you okay? Is something bothering you.” He nodded and groaned loudly. “What is it? You can tell me if you want. I won’t tell anyone.” “I know Jade. I trust you. But…” He hesitated. “But what?” “But you will not like me, after I’ll tell you.” “I think I know you better now. And I don’t think that anything bad will change what I see in you.”

He nodded and inhaled deeply. He told me that he did something bad to his sister and his best friend, Iñigo, almost five years ago causing them to break up. And now, he wanted to amend that mistake. His conscience wouldn’t let him rest. Lately, it had been eating his nerves. The joint venture of the Petrakis – Monteiro in building one of the world’s Luxurious Hotel located in California was established. So, he was dealing business with Iñigo more often now. Chloe on the other hand, just graduated the degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design at New York School of Interior Design. Now, she was ready to practice her degree and assume a role in their family business. Iñigo and Chloe would be working together… and that would be a total disaster - like WORLD WAR III. After he told me what he did… Yes, I was disappointed of him. But I accepted him as a man – a human being, who committed a mistake… and the important part was, he regretted what he did. He was just doing his part as a brother and a son. Obeying his father’s wishes and protecting his younger sister, to the point of hurting her and his best friend. “It’s not too late. You can correct that mistake. We have to find a way to bring them back together.” I assured him. It broke my heart seeing him like this. Vulnerable. Sad. Miserable. Too different from the arrogant, ruthless, controlling and manipulative man I knew. I was surprised when he suddenly took my hand with his both hands, then slid his palm on mine. I was electrified – like a magnetic force. The buried feelings in the deepest portion of my heart ignited like a blazing fire. Then I remembered the kiss. The kiss that happened a year ago. The kiss that never ever been mentioned, explained and discussed. Like it never happened. Like it was nothing. A kiss that was forgotten. But how could I ever forget that. It haunted me night and day. It shattered the walls I built between us. I started thinking of him… caring for him… and… liking him. Everyone our eyes met, he looked at me as if he was kissing me. Everytime our arms brushed at each other, my heart skipped a beat. Every moment we were together, was like a rollercoaster ride, my body came alive with excitement. As time passed by… I felt at home when I was with him… safe and protected. He was not just my boss, but my mentor, my adviser and my… friend.

Lovely indeed,i tink u guys ll end up been 2gether

Ginger and Joseph.. When you finished making the shattered spouse comes together... Don't forget yours! Next please

Hmmm Jade &Eros, jam combinatn nw.. So "intriguingly fascinating".

Tank God u av finally resolved all d ish u get on top dis tory. Keep it rolling please.

Plsss continue nw

Chapter Twenty Six (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here-- “Scientifically, Love is a chemical reaction in your brain toward someone else. Your pupils dilate, breathing catches, and your heart beats faster as your mind goes into overdrive. Spiritually, true love is your soul's recognition of its counterpart in another person. No reasoning, because there is none. We all know what love is. Most of us just don't know how to love.” ― Jennifer Megan Varnadore Eros’ POV “TELL HER. You can’t just go on like that.” Rod Brent showed his concern on me. He was the head security of the Petrakis residential building and my uncle Raymund’s cousin. He was like a relative to me and a bestfriend to Donovan. I slammed my fist at the punching bag strongly like a raging animal. “Arrrgggghhhh.” I groaned and attacked the punching back again with series of kicks and boxes, more strongly this time. “I CAN’T.” I almost shouted. I was panting so hard, running out of breath because of the energy I exerted. I inhaled deeply gathering my strengths and getting ready to attack my opponent – the red punching bag. “You know damn well that I can’t. I already embarrassed myself by kissing her. I’m saving my face from further embarrassment, man.” “But she likes you.” Donovan said. He was sitting with Rod at the corner of the gym, drinking coffee. “She likes me as her boss, nothing else.” “I don’t uderstand, why you complicate simple things like that. Tell her that you like her.” Rod was an opinionated man and very vocal. He had his own principles and philosophies in life. “She’ll freak out and leave me again. She’s important to me. I can’t function without her anymore.” “See? You are becoming too dependent on her. From coffee, to your necktie, to your time schedules, to your business meetings… everything. I’m afraid that next time, you will say that you can’t live without her anymore.” Donovan said. “He probably can’t live without her now. He’s in love with her.” Rod said to Donovan and they both laughed. Shit! These two middle- aged assholes were laughing at me. “Hey, another word about love and both of you are fired.” “Awwwww, you can’t threaten me with that anymore, boy. I’m immune to it.” Rod stopped laughing and started to get serious. “You know what… you’re in love with her, but you refused to acknowledge it. Because, you let your mind overrule your emotions. Love is not about logic or statistics, neither a strategic plan, a geometry or an algebra. LOVE… is not about thinking, it is a FEELING.” He slammed his hand to his chest. “Right. It connects people, like you and Jade. There’s a connection between the two of you like poles of magnets attracting each other. That’s what love is… Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, according to Shakespeare, remember?”

“Bullshit, Donovan. I’m not in love with her… besides, Shakespeare sucks! He didn’t even know the real meaning of love.” “What? You’re hopeless. I give up on you, boy. I couldn’t believe you’ve said that.” Rod shook his head. Donovan laughed aloud. “I told you.” “Okay, we accept that. So what do you want from her? Sex? You want to bang her hard and fast again and again until you get her out of your system? Then DO IT.” Rod snapped at me. Rod was really tackless sometimes. I loved to give him a few punches and kicks on his face at that moment. I glared at him angrily and that made him stop talking. “What? No way… Jade is not that kind of girl. She’ll run a hundred miles in a sec if you’ll ask her that! Hahaha.” Donovan said. “Jade is a caring, loving, loyal and sincere girl. She needs a man who will take good care of her and love her equally. She’s not a bimbo or a slut, man. She’s a wife material.” “I know. You have to marry her if you’re desperate to take her to your bed.” Rod said. “I’m not that desperate.” I hit the punching bag with my fists, then attacked it with my powerful kicks. “Yes, you are. Look at you, you’re like a raging animal because of your suppressed feelings. You’re irritable and easily lost your temper to everyone. But when Jade is around, your face instantly lit up and you often smile, which you never did before. Stop the façade boy, it’s affecting everyone.” Rod laughed again. “And have mercy on that punching bag… it got all the frustrations you felt for Jade. If only it could talk, he would tell you the same thing we did.” Donovan muttered. “Both of you, STOP. You’re not helping me at all. I’m asking for your advise how to stop this damn… THING - Instead, you’re both scolding me like I’m a seven-year- old boy.” “OK, fine. It’s just that - we’ve been through this for more than a year already. You dated several supermodels, as we’ve suggested, but still, you want Jade.” Rod sounded more logical now. “It’s always Jade… and you’re always talking about Jade. No matter how many times you deny, it shows, man. I’m pretty sure, you’re brain is full of Jade.” “You’re exaggerating.” I hated it when Rod talked too much, mostly nonsense. He was so good in exaggerating things. “You think I am?” Rod defended himself and grinned at Donovan. “Hey man, tell him the truth.” Donovan just laughed and nodded. “It started with that kiss. It made me… want her so badly.” I admitted to them. Jade’s sweet taste was like a venom that penetrates in my blood, I started craving for it, like an addiction, that I can’t get enough.

Hmmmm

(Time). You better made your feelings known to her. Nothing ends faster than TIME. Though its hard but put on more courage.. It doesn't kills! Next please

“But I thought you already controlled it. That kiss happened more than a year now. What’s wrong this time? Did you kiss her again?” Donovan stood up and went closer to me. “No. But… I touched her hand.” “Uh-oh.” Rod shook his head and grinned. “And you felt the electricity sparks the moment your palms collided. Damn, you’re in deep trouble, boy.” “I know. I don’t know what came over me. She just looked so beautiful and perfect, standing there with her glassy emerald eyes… welled with tears and I couldn’t help me. I touched her hand.” I shrugged my shoulders. “I think you should call Kendra Packer – although I don’t like the girl because she’s lunatic. I couldn’t forget how hard she slapped me and the rest of the guards.” Rod chuckled. “But I’m pretty sure, she will satisfy you in bed, and help you forget about Jade.” “NO. That girl is a pain in the ass.” “Yeah, a certified bitch. She deserved to be dumped.” Donovan said coldly. “You’re lucky man, you haven’t been slapped.” Rod said to Donovan. Then we were all laughing when suddenly we heard a feminine voice said at the gym entrance. “Excuse me.” All our eyes focused at the woman standing there at the doorway. It was Jade. My heart skyrocketed the moment I saw her. It was always like that whenever she was around. “Good morning, Jade.” Rod and Donovan said simultaneously. “Good Morning.” She replied. “You look more and more beautiful everytime I see you.” Rod teased her. “Thanks, Mr. Brent.” “Hmmm…. I have a nephew in the U.S. Navy who is looking for a girlfriend. Maybe we can set a time for you to meet him.” Rod said. He was obviously trying to make me jealous. “Yes, sure, Mr. Brent.” What? Damn it, she said yes. I’m going to kick your fat ass later, Rod. I inhaled deeply to ease my nerves, and then I removed my gloves. I took the towel on the chair and wiped my face and neck. I asked Jade to come early here in the penthouse, so we could ran through with the presentation for today’s board meeting. I never expected her to be too early. It was still seven thirty a.m. I wanted us to have breakfast together like we used to do. I missed it. I went towards her and wondered if she’d heard us talking about her.

“Jade.” “Good morning, Sir. Here’s the file for today’s presentation.” She handed me a folder. “Thanks.” I gazed at her eyes intently. “How long have you been standing here?” Her eyebrows raised questioningly. “What do you mean?” I grinned at her. “I mean, did you hear us talking…?” “Talking? About what?” YOU. I wanted to say, but I knew she would freak out. “About… ah…” I tried to think of something to say - but my mind was blocked. “About… girls… no… no… about… yeah, girls.” I coughed. Damn it. “No. I haven’t heard anything.” Was all she replied. Then we headed upstairs, to my penthouse. A few months had passed, my sister, Chloe, started working in the company. She was assigned in California to do the whole Interior Design of the Petrakis-Monteiro project, the New World Hotel and Beach Resort - where she was reunited with her ex- boyfriend, and my best friend, Iñigo Monteiro. I was thankful that Chloe and Iñigo already talked and they settled their differences. But the problem was, Chloe found out the truth, and now, she was so mad at me. But I knew her. She would forgive me eventually. She just needed some time to get over with her anger. I was talking to Iñigo’s dad, Mr. Lucas Monteiro when I heard Chloe’s assistant, Rodrick, talked to Jade. “Hi Jade. You look so blooming.” “Thanks, Rodrick.” “I envy you, having a gorgeous boyfriend.” “Ah… um…” Jade stammered. “Your boyfriend’s name was Jason Smith, right? Yeah, I saw his name in the newspaper… blah… blah….blah…” She has a boyfriend? All this time, she has a boyfriend? Fucking Shit! Furious. Betrayed. Cheated. That’s what I felt right now. Chloe started her presentation and I was not in the mood to listen. I was so bothered and furious. I clenched my fists several times to control the rage that was building deep inside me. How could you do this to me, Jade? My best friend, Iñigo arrived. It diverted my attention for a while, but still I couldn’t help getting angry at Jade. She even noticed me glaring at her angrily. “Are you okay, sir?” Jade asked me. “I’m FINE.” I snapped at her. You’re a lying bitch! I wanted to shout at her. After a while, Chloe called in a break, and just in time my phone rang. It was from the Japanese Freight Shipping Lines that I submitted a quotation for building three cargo ships. “I’m sorry Mr. Petrakis. The board of directors declined your quotation. You submitted it too late. They already signed a contract to the other ship manufacturer when we received the email and…” “We lost the deal with the Japanese Freight Shipping Lines.” I told Jade about the deal, gritting my teeth. “Why? We gave them the best offer.” Jade’s eyes widened with shock. “Thanks to you. You submitted it too late.” “What? But you said to wait for your signal. I just did what you advised me to do. You wanted to be the last one to submit the quotations.” “So, it’s my fault now? HA! Blame that stupid, moronic and idiotic brain of yours, sweetheart.” Jade’s face instantly turned red. She immediately stood up and ran out of the conference room. HOLY SHIT! What have I done! I messed up with her again. I stood up and went after her.

Plss continue,cnt wait 4 d nxt episode

Lol... Eros is just dying in secret love! I didn't blame you, its not that easy! But try your best... You are a man... Nice work MR SHAXEE.... Next please

Chapter Twenty Seven (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here— “I think to myself that when you're in love, sometimes you have to swallow your pride, and sometimes you have to fight to keep your pride. It's a balance. But when the relationship is right, you find that balance.” ― Emily Giffin, Something Borrowed Jade’s POV Tears were blinding my eyes and choking my voice. I couldn’t hold the tears from falling down on my cheeks anymore. I stood up immediately and ran towards the girls bathroom. Eros might think that I was rude by instantly leaving him. But, who cares! He was rude himself. He didn’t care wheher he hurt me or not. I felt like my head was being hit by a baseball bat and iced water splashed on my face. Realization hit me. He was still the same ruthless, devil and arrogant man I’d known. I thought he already changed. I didn’t believe in the saying ‘First impressions last.’ But on his case, it was true. Oh God… I was wrong about him. He wouldn’t changed - EVER. Once a devil, always a devil. Disappointed. Angry. Heartbroken. My mind was in turmoil and I felt a stabbing pain in my heart. Well, he was right. He was really right. I was stupid… because I started falling for him. I didn’t want to cry but I couldn’t help it. I was so hurt. Oh God, and to think that I thought he cared for me… and even liked me… and all the while he thought I was stupid, a moron and an idiot. God knew how much I exerted effort to do my job very well – not just because it was expected of me, but also, in order to please him and make him happy. I learned the business with all my heart to understand it and keep up with him. I did everything he advised me to do. From paperworks to his personal stuffs. I even prioritized my job and HIM over my family – My mom’s birthday last year, I was with him in Toronto and during Sapphire’s school family day, I was in the Petrakis’ family reunion. He was so unfair. He blamed me for losing that Japanese Shipping Lines’ business deal when I was just following his orders. He clearly advised me to wait for his instructions and I did. I sighed, clasped my hands together and stared at them. All of the sudden, I became so disappointed. That business deal worth an awful lot of money. Billions of dollars. I knew that, part of that money would go to Eros foundation for hungry children in different parts of the world. He always made sure to donate a portion of his income. Well… he actually had a right to be furious. But… No. He still called me stupid, moron and an idiot. I hate him! He’s very insensitive, cruel and… heartless.

I went to the ladies bathroom and turned the doorknob. It was locked. But I heard someone talking inside, so I knocked and rattled the doorknob. The bathroom door instantly half-opened by Chloe. “Jade!” Chloe’s voice rose in surprise. “Are you okay?” I stormed inside the Ladies’ room and headed towards the sink. I removed my black-rimmed big eyeglasses and opened the faucet. I washed my face and blew my nose. “Yes, I’m fine. Please don’t mind me.” My voice trembled. Then I bit my lips to control the sobs. I just couldn’t stop crying. “You’re upset. Did Eros shout at you?” Chloe showed her concern on me. She became my close friend since Eros brought me to their family dinner in their mansion almost two years ago. “Yes. He blamed me for losing that deal with the Japanese Freight Ship Company. He advised me to wait for his instruction and prioritize the other deals… and now he called me a stupid, moron, idiot... I swear, I’m going to quit.” I was really upset that I choked on my own words. I took a paper towel and wiped my face on it. I felt so broken and confused that I subconsciously removed my wig. Chloe looked at me in surprise. A soft gasp escaped her lips. Then she cleared her throat and said. “Don’t quit Jade. I’m sure Eros didn’t mean what he said. You are a clever woman, everybody knows that. Besides, he couldn’t function without you. I’ll talk to him.” “Please don’t. Knowing your brother… he is so heartless. He thought he is the Supreme Being, the greatest, perfect and not capable of making mistakes, ugh! I’m sorry Chloe. I just hate him so much now.” I said while fixing my hair in a bun and put on my wig again. Chloe grinned. “You forgot, domineering and a controlling jerk. I still hate him for what he did to me and Iñigo, but… I don’t have a choice, he is still my brother. I couldn’t bear hating him for long, because I know, he loves me and was only doing what he thought what was best for me.” She faced the mirror and fixed her hair. “He really needs a woman who wouldn’t think of him as very superior, someone who is his equal and matches his personality… and someone who would bring his knees down on the ground.” She folded her arms across her chest. “I don’t think she is born yet.” “I guess she already is.” She tossed her head and smiled.“ I have to go. See you later, Jade.” “Yeah, thanks Chloe.” I replied before Chloe went out of the bathroom. I wiped my tear strickened face with the paper towel. Then, I looked at my bloodshot eyes in the mirror. The tears wouldn’t stop falling down my cheeks and I wiped it again and again with the paper towel. Then I heard a gentle knock. “Jade, I know you’re in there. Open the door.”

Hmmm.... Just observing sha.. But I do wonder sometimes that if a lady realy has a feelings for a guy. Why can't she express herself to him?? And Why do guys lack courage on how to express their feelings to lady(ies)? Next

@ khola96 , rem d@ all fingers aren't equal, so d level of confidence each and evry1 one of us hs quite differs, nd also dere's d fear of rejection (nt sure if ur love wld b reciprocated)

@Ahyour & Akorede.. You both are right.... But I think there is nothing bad in trying.... (but there were no courage to put in trying).. & Nigeria Culture has worsen it all....

Continue plss,waiting

My heart hammered against my ribs when I heard his voice. A knot rose in my throat, preventing me to speak. I decided too keep silent and ignore him. My tears became uncontrollable. It was pouring down my cheeks faster now. “Jade, I’m sorry. I don’t know what came over me. I was so stupid saying that.” He was rattling the door now. I stayed quiet, listening to him. I went nearer to the door and leaned my back on the tiled wall. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it. I was upset… of something.” Then, I heard him groaned. “Jade, open the door. I want to see your face when I talk to you.” He rattled the doorknob forcefully now. “You know damn well, you are NOT stupid… in fact, you are a very intelligent. I’m the one who is stupid for saying that to you.” “I don’t blame you for losing that contract. It was entirely my fault, okay? You’re just following my instructions. And who cares if we haven’t closed that deal, we couldn’t cater it anyway, we have more bigger upcoming projects. I don’t want you to bother about it. It’s fine.” Really? I don’t believe you. I know how important your business deals are to you. It’s like an air that you breathe or a water to quench your thirst. “Jade, open the door NOW, or I’ll knock it down.” Seriously? No way. The great Eros Petrakis won’t do that. You’re just trying to scare the hell out of me, jerk! “Talk to me dammit!” “Okay, you left me no choice. I’m going to knock it down in ten seconds.” Really? Go ahead superman. But I know, you won’t. I went to the big mirror and wiped my tears. I heaved a sigh then waited for him to count from ten to zero. I would open it in zero. BLAG!!! My whole body jerked up from the loud sound of the door slamming down on the floor. My goodness! Eros kicked the door down! I was so shocked and my nerves were shaken. I saw him straightened up and fixed his suit. Then he entered the ladies bathroom like nothing happened. His silvery gray eyes pierced the distance between us. I just stood there merely staring at him, tongue-tied. My breath caught up in my lungs and my heart – was beating foolishly. I was tormented by confusing emotions. Excitement. Angry. Hurt. His eyes held mine as he strode towards me. He came close, looking down at me intensely. His eyes were gentle and understanding and his gaze was as soft as a caresss. “Jade.” He stopped in front of me.

“You were not counting.” I swallowed hard, lifted my chin and boldly met his gaze. “What are you talking about?” “Never mind.” I said tersely. “Why did you break the door? You can get the master key from the building in- charge in just a phone call.” I bit my lip to stifle the outcry within me. He groaned and shook his head. “Stop fretting about that damn door. I was worried about you. You didn’t answer me. I thought something bad happened to you.” “As you can see, I’m fine. Just leave me alone.” I tried to speak with even tone, to hide the shivering of my voice. I clenched my jaw to kill the sob in my throat. “You’re not fine. You’re upset.” He shook his head disapprovingly. “I feel terrible. I made you cry.” I drew a deep breath and forbade myself to tremble. “Don’t be. I’m used to it.” “Jade. I’m sorry. I always think of you as an intelligent girl. You are far from being stupid, you know that. You wouldn’t be my personal assistant if you are.” I averted my eyes to the wall. I couldn’t look at him. I was so mad at him. I could forgive him easily, but I still couldn’t forget. It would take me days or weeks to do that. I rubbed my forehead and stole a look at him. “If you don’t mind, I… I’m not feeling well. Excuse me.” I started to move towards the door, but he was so quick in blocking my way. I immediately stepped backward to avoid contact with his tense, hard body. “Jade.” “Please… I need to be alone.” He nodded. “Sure. Take the afternoon off. I’ll tell Donovan to take you home.” “No. Just… leave me alone.” I replied, then spun around and left him.

OOh... How i wish you forget to replace your wig to it place..... Eros is wasting time with all these pretension! Tell her how you feel... Miss Jade,you are also pretending abi(can you stand it if he leaves you alone?).... Next

Continue plss,lovely

Gr8, cnt w8 2 read d rest, nyc work bro

Chapter Twenty Eight (Unedited) ---Kindly put your playlist here--- “You are an amazing person, and I don't know where the feelings that you give me come from. What I do know is that I am completely and utterly into you and I want time to freeze so I can be with you all the time and not have to think of anything else at all. I like literally everything about you, including the way your face shows everything you're thinking and especially the way it looks when we are together and your hair is back and your eyes are closed and your lips are open just a little bit. Okay. That's all I wanted to say. Delete this.” ― Emily Giffin, Something Borrowed Eros’ POV “Jade doesn’t have a boyfriend. Jason Smith is gay. He’s married to a guy named Walter Graham, since a year ago. They even adopted a baby girl, which Jade’s mother babysits.” Donovan said, who was trailing behind me. We were on our way up to my penthouse. “Are you sure that you got the right guy?” “One hundred percent sure. There’s no other Jason Smith that Jade is connected to. And he works as a journalist in a daily newspaper. Rodrick confirmed it also when our female accomplice showed the picture to him.” So, it was confirmed. Jade didn’t have a boyfriend. The heaviness in my chest suddenly lifted. I felt relieved and elated – more than closing a major deal - like a new opportunity opened… new hopes and chances. But I felt terrible. Why? Because I messed up with Jade again. With her, I became irrational and illogical. I became confused, sometimes terrified of what I felt for her. It really sucks! I even threatened her, shouted at her, called her awful names and became cruel to her. Everything I did to fight the attraction I felt for her. And now, she was upset and obviously hated me. Who wouldn’t? I called her stupid, moronic and idiotic. I didn’t know what drove me to say those mean things to her. I just got so furious when I learned that she had a boyfriend. The thought of her with another man drove me crazy. For Christ’s sake, I was the one who was acting stupid and a moron. I couldn’t control my emotions. I always had ambivalent feelings when I was with her. I made another stupid thing in the ladies bathroom this morning. I broke the door. Jade was right. I should have called the building in- charge for the master key. Why didn’t I think of that? Damn it, I was overruled by my emotions again – and THAT made me terrified. It broke my heart when I saw Jade struggled to maintain her composure – to hide the hurt she felt. She was crying. Her eyes were puffy and red. She was clutching a paper towel. She looked so pale and fragile standing there. Her eyes widened and her mouth opened in shock when I knocked down the bathroom door. I was afraid she would pass out.

At that moment, I wanted to comfort her – tell her that everything was fine. I wanted to put my arms around her and keep her safe in there. I just wanted to protect her and take all the burdens that she’d been carrying. Damn, if only I had everything in my own way… Yeah, I cared for her… a lot. I enjoyed being with her, to the point that I wanted to be with her always. In times that we were not together, she was always in my mind. She was the first thing I think of when I wake up and the last thing before I go to sleep. This was something I’d never felt before. And this feeling was confusing, really terrifying and it sucks! “She’s so upset. She wouldn’t forgive me.” My voice broke miserably. I sat down on my living room sofa and stretched my body. I put my legs on top of the center table. “Give her a peace offering.” Rod Brent suggested. I summoned him the moment we arrived in the penthouse. “Hmm… that’s a great idea Rod. I’ve been thinking of buying her a new car, perhaps a convertible.” My eyes lit up. This was a great opportunity to give her a new car. She would learn how to drive. It would be very convenient for her to take her family in the park, movies, church or wherever they wanted to go. “A car? That’s too much.” Donovan disagreed. “How about a whole new wardrobe? Jade obviously needs one.” Rod laughed. I shot Rod a cold look. “That’s not funny.” “Sorry boss, I’m just kidding.” He shrugged his shoulders. “Maybe she will like jewelries - a diamond. They said that diamonds are girl’s bestfriends.” Donovan shook his head. “I don’t think so, not our Jade. She’s different from the girls you’re referring to. She’s not materialistic. You can’t buy her forgiveness with expensive things.” “So what do you suggest? Flowers and chocolates? That’s too old fashion.” “Why not? Jade is an old-fashioned girl. Or you can give her something that she would surely love, like stuff toys, pillows, music box and picture frames.” I grinned and said. “I know what she likes.” Jade’s POV “Dee! Wake up. Dee. OPEN UP!” My sister Sapphire was knocking on my bedroom door so loudly. I opened my one eye and peered at the alarm clock on my bedside table, it was still seven o’clock. I groaned. It was Sunday, my rest day. Time to pamper myself to bed and woke up whenever I wanted to.

I can't even stop smiling at Eros! Secret Love kills slowly! Keeping your feelings to yourself would never help you out of the misery you are! You need to put on more courage and spill your mind out to her! As I always says- Expressing your feelings won't kill you! It would only make you happy(wether she/he reject you or accept you)...

Don't kill urself. Y don't u b a man dat u ar 4 once?

I want more

no let maa vex 4 u o..oya post d next 1 before i open my eyes. . . . . . . Na play o.

“Dee, hurry! You’re boss is here!” My eyes suddenly opened wide. Eros is here? Did I hear it right? Eros is here? It’s Sunday! I immediately stood up and opened the door. I was instantly awake and fully charged. “Dee! You took so long to wake up.” Saph almost yelled at me the moment I opened my bedroom door. “What did you say? My boss is here?” “Yes. He’s downstairs talking to mom. And he brought something… hmm… delicious looking pancakes with fresh strawberries syrup and whipped cream on top.” “What?! Oh my G! Oh my G! What is he doing in here? It’s Sunday for heaven’s sake!” “I don’t know. Just hurry up, okay. I’ll see you downstairs. I’m going to attack that pancakes right now, my mouth is watering already.” Sapphire said and left my room. I ran in a panic towards the bathroom and took my toothbrush, then went out and took my towel… went back to the bathroom… then came out again and took my wig… I brushed my teeth, clean my face… then decided to take a half-bath… WHEW! I was done in ten minutes. I went downstairs so fast and headed directly to the living room. But, he was not there. Where is he? I looked outside the window and saw Eros’ Bugatti Veyron parked across our house’ main door. Then I heard my mom’s voice coming from the kitchen followed by a man’s deep voice. I went to the kitchen and found Eros sitting behind the bar counter drinking coffee. He looked so fresh and gorgeous in plain white shirt and faded worn out jeans. His hair was still wet from the shower. He was laughing, listening to Sapphire talking about the otaku characters. Sapphire was beside him eating pancakes with gusto, while mom was behind the stove, cooking. “Hi.” I said, to catch their attention. Three pairs of eyes gazed at me. My breath quickened and my cheeks felt warm. I was embarrassed having Eros in our home and meeting my family. “Jade, look what Eros brought.” Mom showed me the pancake. “Your favorite, pancake with fresh strawberries.” Mom called him Eros? They are very close now? “This is so delicious. I can’t believe that a billionaire like Eros can make delicious pancakes.” Sapphire said. My goodness, even Saph called him Eros! When did they decided to call him in first name basis? Feeling close?

“Dee, hurry! You’re boss is here!” My eyes suddenly opened wide. Eros is here? Did I hear it right? Eros is here? It’s Sunday! I immediately stood up and opened the door. I was instantly awake and fully charged. “Dee! You took so long to wake up.” Saph almost yelled at me the moment I opened my bedroom door. “What did you say? My boss is here?” “Yes. He’s downstairs talking to mom. And he brought something… hmm… delicious looking pancakes with fresh strawberries syrup and whipped cream on top.” “What?! Oh my G! Oh my G! What is he doing in here? It’s Sunday for heaven’s sake!” “I don’t know. Just hurry up, okay. I’ll see you downstairs. I’m going to attack that pancakes right now, my mouth is watering already.” Sapphire said and left my room. I ran in a panic towards the bathroom and took my toothbrush, then went out and took my towel… went back to the bathroom… then came out again and took my wig… I brushed my teeth, clean my face… then decided to take a half-bath… WHEW! I was done in ten minutes. I went downstairs so fast and headed directly to the living room. But, he was not there. Where is he? I looked outside the window and saw Eros’ Bugatti Veyron parked across our house’ main door. Then I heard my mom’s voice coming from the kitchen followed by a man’s deep voice. I went to the kitchen and found Eros sitting behind the bar counter drinking coffee. He looked so fresh and gorgeous in plain white shirt and faded worn out jeans. His hair was still wet from the shower. He was laughing, listening to Sapphire talking about the otaku characters. Sapphire was beside him eating pancakes with gusto, while mom was behind the stove, cooking. “Hi.” I said, to catch their attention. Three pairs of eyes gazed at me. My breath quickened and my cheeks felt warm. I was embarrassed having Eros in our home and meeting my family. “Jade, look what Eros brought.” Mom showed me the pancake. “Your favorite, pancake with fresh strawberries.” Mom called him Eros? They are very close now? “This is so delicious. I can’t believe that a billionaire like Eros can make delicious pancakes.” Sapphire said. My goodness, even Saph called him Eros! When did they decided to call him in first name basis? Feeling close?

“Saph!” I scolded my sister. Sapphire had a habit of being tackless sometimes and really not careful of what she was saying. Eros chuckled. “I know how to cook varied cuisine. I started cooking when I was in college. I just enjoy it.” “Wow! What’s your specialty?” Sapphire asked. “Buffalo chicken wings. My family and friends love it. They said it’s really delicious.” “Wish we could try it too. Jade loves buffalo chicken wings. It’s her favorite.” “Really? I never know that.” His eyes suddenly held mine. He looked so amused. “Next time, I’ll bring buffalo chicken wings.” “No… no… don’t bother. Actually, I love different kinds of food… like carbonara, sushi, chicken adobo, biryani, paella, siomai, ramen and a lot more.” I rolled my eyes. Sapphire was crazy feeding him information about me. I was afraid that next time, she would tell him that I was wearing a wig. “But buffalo chicken wings is her favorite. Right mom?” Saph insisted. “Right.” My mom agreed and arched her eyebrows, giving me a private message. Talk to him, now. “Um… can I talk to you, I mean…” I said, nodding at him, a signal for him to follow me. “Sure.” Eros stood up and followed me in the living room. “What are you doing here?” I asked him, once we were alone. “I brought you pancakes.” “Why?” “A peace offering?” He replied. I heaved a sigh. “You shouldn’t have bothered.” “Why not? I know you love pancakes.” “Yeah, but please… I just want to be alone… to think.” “To think about what?” He groaned and ran his hand through his hair. “Don’t ever think of resigning. I won’t let you.” “You can’t stop me if I want to.” “You know I can, Jade.” He exhaled heavily and put his hands on his hips. “OH, you’re impossible. Just leave me alone. You shouldn’t be here.” “Why not? I want to see you. To know if you’re still upset.” “Now, you know that I am. So you can go now.” “Jade, please, I’m sorry. I promise you, it won’t happen again. I’ll do anything… I mean anything, for your forgiveness.” “Really?” “Really. I won’t stop until you forgive me.” I knew he meant it and he wouldn’t leave me alone, until I forgive him. “Okay.” I put my arms under my chest and lifted my chin up. “Hmm.. I’m craving for buffalo chicken wings right now.” He smiled and shouted. “Yes!” That morning, I accompanied him to the nearest grocery store. We bought the ingredients for his buffalo chicken wings and for his caesar salad. He also bought some red wine to complement the dishes. At quarter to eleven, he started cooking - in our kitchen. I was beside him always - as his assistant. I was really amazed how skillful he was in the kitchen. Marinating the chicken, frying it, cutting the vegetables and making the salad dressing. Eros had lunch with us in our house. He looked at ease and comfortable with us. Mom and Sapphire were always laughing at his jokes. He talked about anything… and simple things like an ordinary guy. He listened earnestly about Sapphire’s girly talks, my mom’s gossip about the neighbor and hollywood celebrities, etc. He was interested in everything that we do. I stared at him and he stared back at me. I smiled and he smiled at me too. I didn’t know what that means but… he looked so different from the arrogant, ruthless, controlling and manipulative Eros Petrakis I’d known… totally, not a devil now… but a saint.

(P.H.C.N can't hold light for so long without been restored): You(Jade) can't hide yourself with that wig for so long... One day,he must surely find out!!! And Eros, Jade would also find out that you are the one that gave them that house!!! I Hate How Love Do Play It Game Sometimes! May GOD help you out Eros.... Next

Lovely indeed

Abeg una no go post d next? Don't kip d gurl waiting oooooo

Chapter Twenty Nine (Unedited) ---Kindly put your playlist here--- Its hard to pretend you love someone when you don't but its harder to pretend that you don't love someone when you really do. -- Anonymous Jade’s POV “Wow, nice teeth! You look more beautiful without your braces, Dee.” Saphire said. She was in the living room watching her favorite Korean Drama TV series, Boys Over Flowers, and eating Cheetos. “I feel so weird that I can’t feel the metal anymore. My teeth feels smooth and a bit weak.” I smiled at her, feeling relieved that my braces were gone. “Awwweeee… and your smile looks so cute.” “Ohhhhh… thanks, Saph.” I put my bag on top of the center table then settled comfortably in the arm chair. “By the way, I was chatting with Joseph a while ago.” “Really?” My heart jumped suddenly. The mention of Joseph Nevin, my ultimate crush startled me. Well, not the same way as it did before, that my heart really pounded foolishly and lurched painfully in my chest – but still my heart sang with delight at the mention of his name. I still had a crush on him, even though it was already four years since I last saw him. The thought of him sometimes lingered in my mind. It was not easy to forget him, in just a snap of my fingers. He was my bestfriend, like my brother and my adviser. But my idea of a prince charming changed. When I dreamed at night, my prince charming’s hair changed, from blond to black. His physique became lean and strong. Even the tone of his voice became more authoritative and commanding. I knew why. Because of Eros. I couldn’t help but fell in love with him. Who wouldn’t? I saw him almost everyday. He was strikingly handsome, confident, very intelligent, hard working, caring and funny… yes he was, with his crazy jokes and corniest pick up lines… one time, I almost died of laughter. He was a different man when we were together and I felt that we had a connection… a rapport that both of us only understood. BUT, Eros was off- limits. He didn’t believe in love and romance. The thought of ME and HIM, together, forever – nah… Too many times, I told myself not to fall for him because I would just end up being hurt. But my heart wouldn’t listen! I tried so hard but it was just too impossible. He was like a Greek god. I’m only human. Was my frequent excuse. But I knew how to control my emotions. I tried to stay calm and not affected by his smile, his stares and his charms. I didn’t want to humiliate myself because I knew that he wouldn’t love or marry a girl like me. He saw me as his secretary, a friend or someone he relied on to do his stuffs. Yes, he cared for me, I could feel it, but… I didn’t want to put meaning on it. It probably meant nothing to him. I didn’t want to embarrass myself again, just like what happened with Joseph. I thought he loved me, because he was so sweet, loving and caring. I felt like a princess when I was with him. He introduced me to his friends, hugged me and kissed my forehead, helped me with my homework and even with the household chores. I fell madly and deeply in love with him that my world started to revolve around him. BUT, all the while, I misinterpreted his actions. He loved and cared for me like his baby sister. I was stupid to think that he was head over heels in love with me.

I didn’t want to experience the same mistake again. It was better to wait for the guy to confess his feelings first, rather than the other way around – to save from another embarrassment. “How is he?” I asked Saph. I was still curious about Joseph’s whereabouts. “He is already a doctor and is now practicing in Canada.” “Oh, that’s great! He finally fulfilled his dream.” “Yeah… he asked for your number again, but still, I didn’t give it to him. Your instruction, right.” “Right. Why was he asking for my number?” “Dee… you were good friends, obviously he wanted to catch up things with you, for old times’ sake.” I heaved a sigh. Yeah, but he rejected me. Well, not literally… but I felt rejected and embarrassed. I shouldn’t have kissed him. The last time that we were together was not a happy memory. How I wished I could turn back the clock and never confessed my feelings for him. “He said he was here in New York six months ago with his girlfriend. He was really hoping to see then, but… he didn’t have your number, too bad.” “Girlfriend?” “Yes. He has a girlfriend and they just got engaged.” “What?!” I felt a sudden piercing pain in my chest, like my heart was squeezed tightly. Joseph is engage? No! I was so shocked. I couldn’t accept the fact that Joseph, my Joseph was already engaged to get married. Tears immediately welled in my eyes. “Her fiancée is also a doctor. They worked in the same hospital in Canada. I saw her picture, she looks so pretty - and guess what? She has long ginger red hair, like yours.” Saph continued “The wedding will be in two weeks in Canada. He wanted us to come.” I can’t take this. Oh God, help me. I felt like the world immediately crumbled and I was falling down a hollow endless pit. I felt so shattered that I couldn’t breath. Oh… I actually couldn’t breath, the pain ran so deep. I felt like I was going to collapse. “Dee? Are you okay? You look so pale.” “Yes… I’m okay. Excuse me.” I suddenly stood up and ran upstairs… to my room, where I cried the whole night. Eros’ POV What is wrong with Jade? Is she sick? She’s been like that for a week now. Lifeless. Miserable. Gloomy. I asked her if a family member died or sick, if she had a problem or anything that caused her distress – but she said no. She just said that she wasn’t able to sleep well last night. I tried to make her happy. I bought her two boxes of fresh milk to help her sleep. The following day, I bought her all the novels of her favorite author, John Green. Then, I asked Donovan to send her buffalo chicken wings. I appeared in her doorstep last night, bringing her favorite cookies and cream Häagen-Daz ice cream. “What is wrong with her?” I asked Donovan, who was driving my Land Rover.

Hmmm... So Joseph has make you learnt all that BUT it wasn't applicable to all emotion!!!!! With time, I knew things would be better between you & Eros! Next please

This Eros sef, you are just killing yourself slowly with secret love!!! Better tell Jade now orelse if you lose her, I'm gonna hang you!!!

Dis secret n unrequited love is killing. I wish I av Jade's number, would v call her n talk senses into her. Eros b a good representative of Manhood 4 once n tell her aw u r feeling. Gosh!!

Inntresting cnt wait 4 d nxt episode

Weldone @shaxee,you are there but still have a long way to go. @khola,you are indeed a fantastic commenter and i like you for that,so keep it you for i already give you best commenter without val permission@coolval no vex for me

@Ezekamba Lol.... Best commenter kwo??? Thanks oo!!! But something pain me from your comment o.. You type.. "and I Like you for that".. I don't Like using Like!!! I Like using L' word....lol... I L' word you also oo!!!! Thanks Ma'm....

“She’s probably having PMS.” “What?” “PMS. Pre-menstrual syndrome. Girls often has that every month.” “Yeah, I know that. Choe has that. Her mood swings were very irritating, she became so bitchy and hysterical. But no- I don’t think Jade has that. I’ve never seen her like this before.” “Maybe, there’s something bothering her.” Donovan replied. “I was thinking the same. I wish she would tell me. I can’t stand seeing her like this.” I groaned aloud and sat in lonely silence, looking at the people and the vehicles outside the car’s window. ***Iñigo Monteiro and Chloe Petrakis Wedding*** “When are you planning to get married?” My uncle Raymund asked. “You should get married soon. We need an heir for our business.” My dad, Markos said. “Have you seen Stella? She looks so lovely. It’s time to make a move Eros. How will you marry her if you won’t make a move?” Mom whispered on our way to the wedding reception. “I was your age when I married Sophia.” Iñigo’s grandpa, Enrique Monteiro said. “Yes, what are you waiting for? If you found the girl you truly love, then marry her.” Sophia Monteiro said. “Eros, I want you to meet Taylor, she’s single. Maybe you guys want to go out on a date?” Cassandra, my cousin said. She introduced me to all her lady friends in the reception – Selena, Miley, Vanessa, Ariana, etc. “Did you ever consider marrying my sister? If so, you should act on it now. Men are lining up to ask for her hand in marriage.” Xander Valiente said. I grinned and waved my hand. “Count me out man, I hate lining up.” I swallowed my whiskey, neat, in one gulp, then left the bar. I disliked Xander Valiente, Stella’s older brother. He was the one who controlled his family’s business. He was really a smart guy but very hard headed and wouldn’t take no for an answer. I refused to transact business deals with people like that. He always wanted to win — and because of his attitude, what happened? One year ago, his fiancee ran away, one week before their wedding. For sure, she was scared of marrying a brute like him. I hated it when everyone was pressuring me to get married. Just because Chloe got married didn’t mean that I should get married also. Dammit! I’m still young and enjoying my life being single. I decided to look for someone sane to talk with. Just in time, I spotted my grandma, Karina Anderson, alone in the table, watching the guests dancing on the dance floor. “Hi grandma. Do you want to dance?” “Later. I was dancing with your father a while ago, my feet hurts. Look at him now, dancing with your mother. They look so sweet and very much in love.” I smirked. “Yeah… after all the struggles he went through… I’m glad that he still ended up with mom.” “Eros, when are you going to get married? It would make me so happy seeing you getting married and have kids before I die.”

Oh God, not again. “Me? Grandma, I’m afraid you have to keep strong and healthy to live much longer because I haven’t even met yet the woman I wanted to marry.” I teased her. Then my eyes caught at Jade who was walking towards me, holding one of my business phones. “What is it Jade?” “Sorry to bother you, Mr. Petrakis, but you have an important call from Germany, about the business deal we’re working on.” “Ok, I’ll take it.” I took the phone from Jade and signalled her to go and join the party. She still looked so miserable, and I started getting so worried about her. “Ja. Das ist Herr Eros Petrakis.” “Hallo Herr Petrakis. Dies ist der Finanzverantwortlichen der German Marine International Shipping Company, Klein Bergmann.” The man in the other line said. “Ja. Ich wartete auf Ihren Anruf.” “Es tut mir leid , Ihnen mitzuteilen, Sir . Wir können Ihnen nicht das Projekt.” “Warum?” Cold sweat ran down my back. I couldn’t lost this project, I wouldn’t allow it. This was a major deal – construction of ten cargo ships. I had to win this project by hook or by crook. ***One hour after*** I was alone in the bar. Drinking whiskey– partly celebrating, alone. Yes, The German Marine Company considered my quotations. I should be very happy, but I was so bothered. I remembered my conversation with Mr. Bergmann a while ago. “The board of directors won’t award the project to you Mr. Petrakis because they thought that you’re still too young to negotiate business with them. They were afraid that you wouldn’t keep the terms of the contract. They had a bad experience with a young bachelor businessman before, and he was irresponsably handled the project. He didn’t finish the project on time and the materials used were substandards. The board won’t trust a young bachelor businessman anymore.” “I have a very good reputation Mr. Bergmann. You can background check my credibility in handling a business.” “I know Mr. Petrakis, even the board of directors know that. But they implemented a new policy now. They didn’t want to negotiate with a young bachelor ever again.” I inhaled deeply and my mind started to function - thinking of strategies, plans, decisions… to convince the board of directors. Then I saw Jade, dancing on the dance floor with my cousin, Paul. I was amazed that she danced very well. I didn’t know what came over me. But a decision was finally said and done. “Actually Mr. Bergmann, I’m engaged to marry very soon.” I heard Mr. Bergmann laughed. “Is that so? I’m sure the board will consider your quotations now, Mr. Petakis. I’ll let them know about your engagement, rightaway.” After thirty minutes, Mr. Bergmann called. “The board considered your quotations Mr. Petrakis. I suggest you get married sooner, so we can start discussing the terms of the contract.”

Lol.... I'm eager to know who you are engage with without the concience of the writter & the readers of this story oo Mr Eros Petrakis!!!!! Nice one here! Next please

Wow! I can't wait to read d propose aspect of it

Lols,so wonderful,cnt wait 2 see who eros ll propose 2

Diz is getting intresting. Wanna c aw go abt it........

Chapter Thirty (Unedited) ---Kindly put your playlist here--- “Love is not an equation, it is not a contract, and it is not a happy ending. Love is the slate under the chalk, the ground that buildings rise, and the oxygen in the air. It is the place you come back to, no matter where your headed” ― Jodi Picoult Jade’s POV I was drinking champagne and dancing at the wedding reception with Paul, Eros cousin. I was burying my heartaches away. I just wanted to forget about Joseph and have fun that night. He didn’t love me… he didn’t love me! He thought of me as his younger sister only and a good friend. I should forget about him and move on. Yeah, there’s plenty of fish in the ocean… and I’m still young. I’m not ready to marry Joseph or anyone, right now. I’m not yet done with my studies and there’s our daily expenses, monthly bills and mom’s maintenance. Aside from that, Sapphire will be going to college very soon. We need to save a lot of money for that. I’m just so thankful that mom won a house. It helps us save the monthly house rental. Who needs a man now? Not me. I took a flute of champagne from the roaming waiter when Eros suddenly appeared behind me. “I’m glad you’re having fun.” I turned around and faced him. He stood there looking so handsome in his gray tuxedo and with a small smile of enchantment touched his lips. “Yup. The wedding is so beautiful, it’s like a fairy tale movie.” I said and lifted the flute to my lips. I drank almost half of its content. Then, he was eyeing me up and down and I wondered why. I frowned then looked at my purple satin dress for some stain, and then to my one-inch silver shoes. “You look very beautiful tonight.” My brows flickered a little, I couldn’t believe what I’d heard. “T- thank you.” I felt awkward all of the sudden. I was not used hearing him complimenting my appearance. “I noticed that you’re not wearing your braces anymore.” “Um… yes. It was removed last Sunday.” The smile in his eyes contained a sensuos flame. “You should smile more often. You look prettier when you do.” Another compliment. My cheeks felt warm now due to embarrassment. I was surprised when he reached out and caught my hand with his. Then, he took the flute of champagne out of my grasp.

“Hey, that’s mine.” “Not anymore. You had enough of this for tonight.” He replied then drank the remaining of my champagne, bottoms up. He had been watching me? Did I hear him right? I was confused… maybe he was right. I was drunk. He laced his fingers through mine and pulled me to the dance floor. My first instinct was to pull my hand away from his electrifying touch, but he held it strongly. “Come, dance with me.” “I can’t. My feet is aching already.” I was dancing fast music with Paul almost all night and I was a bit tired and tipsy. He twisted his lips and seemed disappointed of my hesitation. “Okay, just one dance.” I told him. He smiled and guided me to the dance floor. Just in time, the music turned slow and sweet and then the lights were automatically dimmed. Oh-oh. ♪♫When your looks don't work like they used to before And I can't sweep you off of your feet ♪ I was hesitant for a moment and stayed frigid on the dance floor. No. I couldn’t do this. Not with him. My brain was freaking out, saying NO, but my body was such a traitor. My sleeping nerves came alive, clapping and dancing with excitement. ♬♪Will your mouth still remember the taste of my love Will your eyes still smile from your cheeks ♪ But it was too late. Eros swung me to the circle of his arms. One hand stayed in the small of my back and his other hand held my hand to his chest. I gasped at the sudden contact of his body. I was trapped, gilded and imprisoned in his arms. “Relax.” He whispered, his breath hot against my ear. My heart raced and my breathing was uneven. I could even hear my heart beating so loudly in my ears. Lub-dub… lub-dub… ♪♪And darling I will be loving you 'til we're 70 And baby my heart could still fall as hard at 23 And I'm thinking 'bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways Maybe just the touch of a hand Oh me I fall in love with you every single day And I just wanna tell you I am ♭♪ Later on, I relaxed and succombed to the warmness of his embrace and began enjoying the feel of his arms around me. His touch sent a delightful shiver through me and I was conscious of where his warm flesh touched mine. The occasional jolt of his thigh brushing my hip made my body tingled from the contact. We swayed together in rhythm with the music. Our breath mingled together and I could feel his, warm against my face. I inhaled his pure masculine scent deeply – and instantly, all my hormones were running wildly in circles – partying, celebrating. At that moment, I totally forgot all about Joseph. ♮♪♫ So honey now Take me into your loving arms Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars Place your head on my beating heart I'm thinking out loud Maybe we found love right where we are ♪♫♯

Hmmmm!!!! Alright. I think things is going on well for Eros, since Jade is ready to forget about Joseph!!!! Eros just need to find a way to express his feeling to Jade!!! Next Please

Continue

Chapter Thirty One (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here-- “So it's not gonna be easy. It's going to be really hard; we're gonna have to work at this everyday, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever, everyday. You and me... everyday.” ― Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook Eros’ POV **Monday morning, 10:15 a.m.** “What? You lost the German contract?” Jade looked so disappointed. Her lips twisted in exasperation. She was sitting on a chair in front of my desk, holding her notepad and pen. “Yeah.” I took a sip of my espresso. I leaned my head back on my chair and gazed at jade, who looked so upset now. “We can’t lost that project, it’s a major business deal - ten cargo vessels.” She shook her head in dismay. She worked hard for the project too. Helping me made the quotation, coordinate with the suppliers of materials, the installers and estimating the cost together with our finance officer.” “I just did.” “First, the Japanese contract… and now, this. I can’t believe this is happening. Is there something that we can do to change their minds?” She flung her hands out in despair. I twirled my black pen between my fingers. “Actually there is.” “There is?” Her eyes brightened. Hope and chances were visible on her face. “Yes. I can still remedy the situation – if you’ll help me.” “Really?” An expression of satisfaction showed in her eyes. “Of course, I’ll do anything I can to help you get that project, you know I would.” I inhaled deeply trying to compose myself. I knew she would hate me for suggesting this, but I had to. “Anything?” “Yes, anything.” She answered confidently. “Even to the point of marrying me?” Jade’s eyes immediately widened and her mouth dropped open. A soft gasp escaped from her lips and intense astonishment touched her pale face. Then a smile touched her lips. “Are you kidding me?” “No, I’m not.” I said firmly and gave her a very serious look. “I don’t understand.” She stiffened and inclined her head. “They rejected my quotation because I’m young and single. Their company implemented a policy not to engage business with a young bachelor again because of a bad experience they had before.” “You are a credible person - you have a very good standing in business and dealing with your clients. Everybody in the business world knows that.” “Thank you, but they won’t consider that. They stick with their policy. Anyway, they assured me that they will award the project to me once I’ll get married – the sooner, the better, so that a contract will be drawn immediately.” “That’s… absurd!” “I know. But that’s the only way to get hold of that contract.” “And you want me to marry you?” “Yes. If we’ll get married, we can closed that business deal and their succeeding projects. We will have an edge over the others and everything will be in our favor. Many important clients would trust us.”

“Why me?” “Why not you? You know me better that anyone else, even more than my own mother.” “How about Stella Valiente or anyone you’ve dated?” Because it’s only you I wanted to be with, no one else. I wanted to say that to her but thought it was not a good idea. It would scare her away. “NO. This marriage is temporary, a marriage of convenience – like a business deal. Other girls wouldn’t understand that. A contract will be drawn up and all the conditions will be meticulously stipulated.” “What? My goodness. I’m not a robot that you will just order to marry you, Mr. Petrakis. Marriage is sacred to me, it is based on love, trust and respect - it is not a business contract.” He shook his head disapprovingly. “I thought you said you are willing to help me close that deal. You would do anything, remember?” “Yes, but marriage… that’s too much. You should at least marry the woman you love.” “I’m not in love with anyone. Are you?” The thought of her in love with any other guy made my temper flared. My blood simmered with rage and jealousy. She stayed silent for a while – thinking. Dammit. Why couldn’t she just answer yes or no immediately? The suspense was killing me. “No.” She answered after a while. I cleared my throat and adjusted my tie. I felt so relieved with her answer. “So, what’s the problem?” “What’s the problem? Your suggestion is ridiculous!” He leaned forward and placed his arms on his desk. “Think of the merits you will get when you are my wife, Jade. You will have a lovely home, cars, beautiful clothes and jewelries, and a generous monthly allowance. Then, after our deal, you will receive a big amount of money. Just think of it as a job.” “A job? The description itself sounds like a keep woman.” “Sorry if I insulted you. I didn’t mean to sound it that way.” “And how long are we supposed to be married?” “A year. After that, my lawyer will process our divorce papers and you will receive five million dollars.” “Five million dollars?” “Yes, five million dollars and you will continue receiving your monthly allowance until such time that you’ll get married with another man. You don’t have to work anymore, Jade. You will have enough money to provide for your family and continue your college degree.” “You had this planned already?” “I’m sorry, but yes.” I nodded. She was rubbing her temple and gazed into my eyes. She looked so confused and undecided. “What will your family or friends say? They won’t believe that you’re attracted to me. I’m not the usual type you dated.” “You’re wrong. I see a beautiful woman in front of me. So, don’t belittle yourself. You just don’t want to flaunt your assets.” “You find me beautiful?” “Of course. I always find you beautiful.” She twisted her fingers nervously. A habit which she never got over with. And her face turned bright red… she was blushing.

Hahahah....Oh My Gawd!!! Lol.... Omoh See Brain! ****See Scope! Oh Oh Oh!!! I swear Eros has finaly gave me hope!!!!! There are many ways to propose..Thanks Eros. I salute your proposing-style!!! You are the Man!!!!!! He had just made his feelings known to Jade in another dimension!! THANKS SHAXEE!!! You gave me hint here!! Thanks

Eros ur brain game will put u for wahala, y not just come out plain for once in ur life. Hmmmmm

waoooo anoda dimension or proposin

omo see style o..dz iz d exact way joseph proposed 2 mary in my own bible..

Hmm,jade Nd Eros

Hmmmmmmmm! Diz getting interesting! Let d marriage begin.......

“Thank you. Are… Are we going to sleep together? I mean…” “Yes. It will be a real marriage Jade, for a year.” “How could it be real when there’s no love.” I groaned aloud. “I don’t believe in love. I can’t give you that. Ours will be a marriage of convenience. That thing is confusing… terrifying and painful.” “Can you just sleep with your mistresses, instead of having me on your bed? I’m not an expert on… on…” “I don’t need an expert lover. You’ll be my wife and I want you on my bed for a year. But don’t worry, I will not rush you. I will give you time to get use to me. I’ll wait until you’re ready.” “For how long?” “I can’t tell, it depends on you.” “What if I’ll get pregnant?” “You will not. Just trust me. Having a kid would complicate the situation.” She rubbed her head. She was obviously confused. “Marry me, Jade. I promise you, you won’t regret it.” She inhaled deeply then paused - thinking. Then she nodded a little. “Is that a yes?” “Um… no… er… yes… but” “Good. You won’t go back on your word now, will you?” “Well… um… no, but…” “OK. We will get married right away.” She gasped. “Right away? What are you rushing?” “The deal remember. We need to close that German contract before they decided to offer it to the competitor.” “OH.” “Just remember that no one should know about our agreement. We need to act as a real couple in public. We can’t take the risk of anyone finding out, especially the people behind the German shipping company. ” She put her palms on her face and nodded in compliance. “Tonight, we will announced our engagement to my family. We will have a special dinner with them.” I took my wallet from my pants pocket and get one of my credit cards, then handed it to her. “What’s this for?” She frowned and took my credit card. “You’ll need it to buy a new dress and shoes for tonight. Go shopping and have your hair and makeup done. I’ll tell Mrs. Wilson to fill you place in the office today.” Marriage for a year with Jade would benefit a lot. Closing that German business contract and their succeding projects, and definitely, referral to other prospective clients. Another advantage was having Jade on my bed for a year - enough to satisfy my lust for her and get her out of my system. I remembered how good she felt in my arms when we danced at the wedding reception. Her touch, her scent left me breathless – the main reason why I couldn’t sleep well at nights. It was too much to bear already. I wanted her so badly and I aimed in having my fill of her. Oh God, I couldn’t wait. “But, Mr. Petrakis.” “Eros. Start calling me Eros.” “Um… Eros.” “Yes, Jade.” I smirked at her.

“If you don’t mind, I have some conditions on this marriage too.” “Ok sure, tell me about it.” Maybe she wanted more money, a new car or another house. Sure, anything. “I want my own room and…and I refuse in sleeping with you.” What? No way. Suddenly, all my testosterones calmed down - like being splashed with iced water.

Chapter Thirty Two (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here— “If he’s not calling you, it’s because you are not on his mind. If he creates expectations for you, and then doesn’t follow through on little things, he will do same for big things. Be aware of this and realize that he’s okay with disappointing you. Don’t be with someone who doesn’t do what they say they’re going to do. If he’s choosing not to make a simple effort that would put you at ease and bring harmony to a recurring fight, then he doesn’t respect your feelings and needs. “Busy” is another word for “asshole.” “Asshole” is another word for the guy you’re dating. You deserve a fcking phone call.” ― Greg Behrendt Jade’s POV “Jade. What a surprise!” Walter Graham, our neighbor and Jason’s partner, greeted me the moment I stepped inside the famous celebrity beauty salon in Manhattan, where he was working. He was a beautician/makeup artist in there. “What brought you here my dear?” “I need your help, Walter.” “Aah! you wan’t a haircut? Or you want your ginger red hair dyed into black? No-no- no way dear, I won’t allow that. That hair of yours is glorious.” “No. I just need a little makeover.” “What do you mean a makeover?” His eyesbrows arched in surprise. I flung my hand from my head to toe. “You mean… OH MY. Holy superman, batman, spiderman! Are you sure?” His eyes glowed with excitement and he covered his mouth with his hands in surprise. I smiled at him. “I think… it’s time to show the real me.” Finally, I decided to get rid of the ghosts in my past and moved on. I didn’t want to live in fear anymore, it wouldn’t get me anywhere. I had to be strong to face what really happened and learned from it. I couldn’t change the terrors I experienced in my past but I could make my future – more promising and much much better. Besides, if I’d marry Eros - eventually he would find out that I was wearing a wig and intentionally hid my physical appearance. He would surely ask too many questions. Why... why… why. It would be better for him to see the real me now, before the wedding, rather than finding out after. He might feel deceived, lied or get mad at me. The moment I revealed the real me – it was up to him if he still wanted to marry me or not. When he offered the marriage deal, I had no choice. I had to accept his offer. In my situation right now, I would be the biggest moron if I rejected his offer. A one year monthly allowance and five million dollars at the end of the contract, which was one year. And what more? I would continue receiving monthly allowance until such time that I would get married again.

Lol...... If Eros think he could use his brain, Jade has also made him look brainless(her marriage condition with him).... Its good Jade is about to let the past remain the past and show the real her!!!!!!! This is getting interesting.....

@khola u don read ma mind....ride on with it pls

Nyc one @ shaxee,plss give us more

Dis is d part i hav been waitin 4,oya continue pls!!

in Eros voice(is dis Jade or who A̶̲̥̅♏ i seeing).....jade G̶̲̥̅Õ̳͡ on nd reveal ΰя real self A̶̲̥̅♏ rite behind Ɣo̲̣̣̥ΰ..

Pls continue

Call me mercenary, selfish, gold digger, money-hungry… I didn’t care anymore. I had a family that depended on me. My mom’s heart was weak and she needed daily medications and supplements. On the other hand, Sapphire would be in college very soon and I needed the money for her tuition fees. I wanted her to experience what I haven’t experienced – going to college and pursuing her dream, to become a physical therapist. She was a smart kid, and she deserved to finish a degree. Of course, I dreamed of a comfortable life too. Sometimes, I got tired of the worries, burdens, problems that I’d been carrying since dad died four years ago. It was not easy, worrying about where to get our next meal, payment for our utility bills, medications, expenses for Sapphire’s projecs, etc. “Ohhhhh…. I love makeovers. I’m going to make you very very beautiful dear, I’m so excited.” Walter said. “Thank you.” I smiled at him then settled on a chair. “Are you going out on a date tonight?” “Yeah.” I replied. I was a bit embarrassed telling Walter that I had a date. He knew that I didn’t go out on a date or entertained men. He knew that I hid my outer appearance for a reason but never questioned me about it. “Wow! You really must like him a lot. Who’s the lucky guy?” “Umm… my boss.” “Your boss? The great Eros Petrakis?” Then he laughed aloud. “I knew it! That gorgeous boss of yours has his eyes on you. That was his style, you know, fetching you every morning to work, then bringing you pancakes and buffalo wings – awweeee I know he’s crazy for you.” “No… It’s not what you’re thinking.” I was blushing now, but I managed to smile at him. It was better to stay silent about the status of my pretend relationship with Eros. “Now, let’s give him a shock of his life when he’ll see your real beauty. I want his jaw dropped and his eyes pop out. What time will you see him tonight?” “Seven.” “Hmm.” Walter said checking the wall clock. “OK, do you have a dress and stiletto heels already?” “Er… not yet, but I have his credit card.” “Whoah! That boyfriend-to-be of yours is really something. Come on, let’s go shopping first. I’ll be your fairy godmother this afternoon and -- you’ll be Cinderella tonight.” After almost two hours, I was done shopping. I bought a new black lace bodycon cocktail dress that emphasized every curve of my body. It was a bit conservative upfront with long transparent sleeves and the hem ended on my mid-thigh. But the back was so sexy – it was open down to my waist. I also bought a sexy silver four-inch stiletto heels to match my dress.

We went back to the beauty salon afterwards to start my makeover. First thing that Walter did was asked their licensed female esthetician to do a brazilian body wax on me. My legs, underarms, pubic area (bikini waxing) and my eyebrows were waxed. “Hmm… you should stop using that black eyebrow cream, dear, to hide your red eyebrows. It’s turning dark.” The esthetician said. “Yeah, I’ve been using that product for almost four years.” “Don’t worry, Walter will help you choose the right shade and product for you. He will teach you how to apply makeup properly.” She said then instructed her assistants to give me a light body massage. After the massage, I had a footspa, then manicure and pedicure. Walter did my hair and makeup. He washed my hair and blow-dried until it shone. He just curled the edges of my hair with a curling iron to add more body on it. My makeup was simple, light and elegant – a neutral shade that complemented my ginger red hair -- and my lips, he applied a lustrous red lipstick on it. I arrived home at six in the evening. Mom and Sapphire were not home yet. Mom attended a Bible study and Sapphire was still at school. I immediately went to my room and changed. When I was done dressing up and put my high heels on, I took my contact lenses inside the vanity drawer and put it in my eyes. I studied my appearance in the long length mirror. I looked very different from the Jade who wore thick black rimmed eyeglasses and old- fashioned clothes. It would be hard for someone who knew me as a nerd to recognize me now, with my long ginger red hair hanging down my waist and every curve of my body flaunted. This is the real me. At quarter to seven, I was ready. I was still inside my room, feeling so nervous. My hands were shaking and my legs were trembling. I didn’t know what to expect that night. Eros’ POV I checked my watch, it was seven o’clock sharp. I opened the door of my Bugatti Veyron and stepped out of the car. I straightened my dinner jacket then ascended the stairs that led to the main door of the Collin’s townhouse. Jade insisted on her conditions of our marriage deal. She made it clear that she was willing to marry me but wouldn’t sleep or share a bed with me. She argued - why would we do that and what would be the reason when the German people wouldn’t know about it anyway. She even suggested for me to take a mistress to occupy my bed, to satisfy my need. I was so disappointed. She just didn’t care. My suspicion was right. She was not attracted to me. She saw me as her boss only. Nothing else. Yes, I was very hesitant and really wanted to argue about the sleeping arrangement. But I knew I would only look stupid – and I wouldn’t win the battle anyway. She was a hard-headed woman and her temper flared easily. I wondered why, when she was not even a red-haired woman. I pressed the doorbell, then waited for the main door to open. I straightened my dinner jacket again and my tie. I felt edgy and so nervous. I touched the small box in my pocket, making it sure that it was still there. Two minutes had past and no one opened the door. What took her so long?Where’s everyone? I pressed the doorbell again and suddenly… the door opened. My jaw dropped and my eyes popped out when I saw the woman standing in front of me.

Amazing,cnt wait 4 d nxt episode @shaxee,nyc writeup,u r indeed great,nd tnx 4 d ending of switched always in touch of ur story everytym

Imagine that beautiful day I first saw Anitcham picture, I was like Wooooooow!!!!!! Beauty is an understatemen! Well...Lemme Comment Maybe now Eros would change his mind from temporary marriage to parmanent!!!! Jade has killed Mr Eros Petrakis with beauty!

O M G!!!

Na permanent marriage b dat oo

Shaxee why!

Plzzz can't wait t knw wat apn next

Chapter Thirty Three (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here— “Everyone is perfect in their own imperfect ways. The word itself spells I’m-perfect. There is a kind of beauty in every imperfection. We’re perfect in our own imperfections. Secure in our securities. Happy in our pain. Strong in our weaknesses. And most of all, happy in our own way. I am who I am. It is easier to be happy if you look beyond imperfections than trying too hard to be perfect. Why are you even trying to be perfect if you are already one by your imperfections? Beauty and imperfection are a great combination. They lead to perfection. In your simple ways, you won’t even realize that you’re beyond perfect. Remember; Every simple imperfection adds to your beauty. It will always be the imperfect people that will make you perfectly happy.” –Perfect Imperfections by Melissa Santos (wattpad username: pink_lightning26) Eros’ POV I was shocked and tongue-tied. I just merely stared at Ginger. I blinked my eyes several times, to ensure if she was real and not just a pigment of my imagination. But eveytime I opened my eyes – she was still there, standing and looking at me with a smile on her lips. She looked breathtakingly beautiful with her glorious ginger red hair and captivating green eyes – her face so amazingly lovely and with a gorgeous body to die for. For God’s sake.She was absolutely perfect, stunning, astonishing… there was no word to describe how beautiful she was. I didn’t know if I should be happy or mad. I had ambivalent feelings at that moment. My emotions rumbled and tumbled on the ground. I didn’t know what I felt anymore. After four years, I finally found her -- and to think that I gave up looking for her years ago. Yes, I admitted, I searched for her in every corner of New York, for more than a year. In all bars in New York, malls, parks, supermarkets, churches, schools, etc. – also in internet social media accounts, but I couldn’t find her. I even hired private investigators to search for her, but they didn’t succeed. No one knew her in the club, even the girl she was with. She was gone without a trace – like a smoke that suddenly disappeared. I didn’t even get her real name. All I knew was that, she was Ginger. And now, she was here in front of me, looking incredibly beautiful and perfect, standing there with a smile on her lips –my dream girl. BUT WAIT --- Where’s Jade? I stepped backward and looked around the neighborhood. Still confused and disoriented. Did I get in the right house? Or the right street? But, this is Jade’s house. What is she doing in here? Is she related to Jade? The excitement of seeing Ginger again, vanished in an instant. It was like a passing moment that you forgot easily – like seeing a comet, a rainbow or fireworks.

Where the hell is Jade?I suddenly became anxious of seeing her. “Are you okay? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” Ginger asked me, then opened the door widely to let me in. I entered the house and looked at the placement of the furnitures, the television set, the appliances, figurines and frames - it was Jade’s house. “Why are you here?” “What? I live here.” She closed the main door and followed me inside. I pulled my eyebrows in an affronted frown.Ginger lives here? With Jade, Sapphire and their mother? Then she smiled showing her beautiful even white teeth. She tossed her hair across her shoulders and placed her hands on her hips. “You didn’t recognize me?” My gaze riveted on her face then moved over her body slowly. I suddenly felt the stirring of my loins, desire overwhelmed me – in maximum speed.She’s so damn beautiful and sexy. “Of course I do.” I focused my attention to her, my eyes raked boldy over her. I couldn’t hold on my curiosity any longer, I had to ask her. “Where have you been? You disappeared without a trace.” Her eyebrows raised inquiringly. “You told me to take the afternoon off. You even gave me your credit card to buy a new outfit for tonight.” “What?” I felt disoriented for a second. Ginger grabbed her handbag on top of the living room center table and took something inside. “Anyway, here’s your credit card. Thanks. Don’t worry, I didn’t buy the whole Chanel store. I just bought this dress and this stiletto heels.” Jade!? “I wonder if Mrs. Wilson sent the email to our supplier in Dubai. Did she?” Oh my God. It’s Jade! This stunning and astonishing beautiful girl in front of me is actually Jade and not Ginger. But they look so much alike!The shock of discovery hit me full force. I merely stared at her tongue-tied. Then, I closed my eyes to clear my mind. I wondered if I was dreaming or imagining things. This couldn’t be happening. Ginger couldn’t be Jade, but her face, her hair, her yes, everything… was Gingers. Jade is Ginger and Ginger is Jade.I knew they were one. I couldn’t be wrong. This is too much for one night. First, the shock of seeing Ginger. Second, knowing that Ginger and Jade were the same person. Oh great! I almost had a heart attack!

Hmmm,u r going 2 marry her 4 life @eros

U asked for it Eros but dont faint oooo, nice one jade ginger

My heart skipped!!! My eye bulged!!! My life was/is full of joy! That day I saw her picture(I think I mentioned her name before...lol)....! Woow!! Ginger is back in-form of Jade, Jade is back in-form of Ginger!!! That night would be super...! Its even more than a date now! Next ooo

wow

Waooooowwwwww! Short of words

My eyes raked boldly at her up and down. Definitely Jade.Oh God, she was breathtakingly lovely. My eyes lingered at her face, her hair and traveled down to her breasts, her waist and her slim legs. Then my eyes went back to her face andher hair. What happened to her hair? Her vintage clothes and her eyeglasses? Where was the simple, conservative, unique girl I knew? “What happened to your black hair? Did you dye it red?” I said with quiet emphasis. “OH, no. I… um, I’m naturally a redhead.” I was shocked even more by her revelation. “You meanyou’re wearing A WIG the whole time?” “No, not the whole time, only when I go out.” She said in a choke voice. Damn it! She was wearing a wig! I suddenly became angry – no… FURIOUS… in RAGE. I felt like she deceived me. For two years that she’d been working with me, she was wearinga wig! Shit! Holy fucking shit! I was trying to control my anger – to calm my nerves. My blood was boiling at 100 degrees celsius. My eyes glared at her with burning, reproachful eyes.How could she lie to me? Ginger could probably do that, but not Jade – my Jade. For God’s sake. I’m confused again… but Jade is Ginger. Dammit! She’s making me crazy. “Why are you wearing a wig? Why the disguise?” I said in a harsh, raw voice. “Er… um…” She said while backing away from me. “Are you hiding from someone? Are you wanted by the FBI?” My voice, though quiet, had an ominous quality. “Of course not. What are you talking about?” My head was reeling wildly. Ugly scenarious running violently in my head. A group of men running after her - to rape her… assault her. NO… NO… Maybe she killed someone, or stole money from her employer… no… no… not Jade. I knew her she wouldn’t do that. OR maybe some loanshark businessman was running after her? She probably hid her appearance because of fear from someone. If that would be the case, I’d save her from all her fears and troubles. I would help her, protect her and keep her safe. But maybe, she was… oh God, no! “Jade, tell me the truth, were you sick and undergone chemotherapy?” I asked, spacing the words evenly. “Sick? No.” She answered in a shrill voice.

“Then, EXPLAIN, NOW. There has to be a reason behind that wig. We’re not leaving here until you’re done explaining.” I said and settled on the sofa. “You’re so melodramatic. There’s nothing wrong with wearing a wig. Men and women are doing that nowadays.” She spoke calmly and settled into the armchair. “I agree, but for aesthetic purposes. But your red hair is very beautiful. I know some women would pay a large amount of money for a bottled hair dye just to achieve your hair color.” She heaved a sigh and shook her head. “Why? I couldn’t help but think that you wanted to look unattactive to everyone.” There was a long silence, then she said. “Yes.” “What?” “I covered my red hair in order to be modest and unatrractive to everyone. That’s the reason also why I wore conservative clothes and thick-rimmed eyeglasses.” “But you’re hiding your real beauty -- and this glorious red hair of yours.” “My being a redhead turned out a disadvantage on my part. It drew attention from people – especially by men. They noticed me rightaway.” “Because you’re very beautiful.” She played with her fingers, twisting it – a habit of hers when she was anxious. Then she said in a shaky voice. “I’d been bullied in grade school because of my hair. When I was in high school, girls hated me - spreading rumors about me and the other guys. The boys were coming after me, to the point of harrassing me. And when I graduated high school, I decided to wear a wig and conservative clothes. It solved all my worries. Men ignored me and the women befriended me.” “That’s horrible!” I grated harshly. I couldn’t believe that she suffered all these bullying. My temper flared easily. I wished I could meet all the people who bullied her at that time, so I could make them pay, one by one, for what they’d done to her. “Yes, it is. But past is past. I don’t hold grudges on them.” “But you suffered, Jade.” “I did, but not anymore.” She gave me a heartmelting smile. “I decided to get out of my shell and show the real me. I couldn’t hide anymore, especially now, that we’re getting married. I felt like I was deceiving you, other people and myself.” “You did the right thing.” “And I was certain, you’ll find out about my secret sooner or later anyway.” “Yeah I would. I could feel your pain and struggles too. I experienced being bullied too – because I was born rich. Could you imagine that? Kids are bullied not only because they have some physical or mental defects and very low status in life. But also because of what you have, like beauty, brain, talent and wealth.”

I'm just here smiling. Its Amazing!! Eros had wasted many years just to see Ginger and here she is coming out of Jade!!!! Next please

eros weds ginger jade is going to be a permanent wedding now dat eros know dat the ginger his looking for is jade

Can't stop smilling. Diz a permanent marriage! Oh my

“I suffered verbal abuse, taunts and gossip-spreading by some girls in school. They just wouldn’t stop.” “They were just envious and insecure of your beauty. You’re very beautiful no matter what color your hair is – black or red. Your beauty lies deep within you.” “Thank you.” She smiled again, and my heart melted. “I hope you’re satisfied with my explanation.” “Well, I guess I am.”For the time being. I wanted to add. I wanted to remind her that we’d already met before, in a secluded bar in New York, four years ago. I was certain thatthatwas her – Ginger. Unless she had a twin. No… Jade didn’t mention having a twin. I wondered why she didn’t recognize me? “Then I guess, we’re done with this conversation and leave now?” Jade gave me a satisfied grin. “Yeah. No more skeletons in your closet?” I teased her. “Maybe there’s something more that you’re not telling me. You’ve better tell me now. I would find out soon anyway.” “No more. Stop being suspicious, Inspector.” “Well, I should get used seeing you with red hair.” “Yes, you should. I decided to show the real me from now on.” “Good, cause I won’t allow you to hide that gorgeous hair of yours, anymore.” Then I asked her, the question that lingered in my mind. “Have we met before Jade?” She looked so surprise. Then she bent her head and studied her hands. “No. I don’t think so, why?” “You look exactly the girl I’ve met before. She had ginger red hair and green eyes like yours.” “What’s her name?” “Ginger.” “OH.” She answered, turning her face away from me. “Most redheads are called Ginger. We were five redheads in our high school graduating class and all of us were called Ginger.” “Yeah, you’re right.” I conceded. “I think we should go now, Mr. Petrakis. We will be late.” Jade stood up and took her handbag on the center table. “Yeah, and stop calling me Mr. Petrakis. You’re my fiancee now.” I stood up also, getting ready to go. “Sorry, I forgot.” She smiled and inclined her head. “You should practice saying my name, so you will get used to it.”

“Okay. Eros… Eros… Eros… Eros… Eros…” I grinned and stared at her. My gaze dropped from her eyes to her shoulders then to her breasts. She was so beautiful – desirable, standing there. I’d been fighting my overwhelming need to be close to her. And now, I couldn’t hold it anymore. I stepped forward to be near her, but she was quick in backing away. She must have known what I was thinking. “Come here, Jade.” “Why?” “I have something to tell you.” “Then say it now, I can hear you from here.” She said, backing further away from me.” “We’re wasting time, come here.” “No. I will not.” She said defiantly. Her eyes roamed around the room, obviously looking for an escape. “What is wrong with you. I’m not gonna eat you.” I was so amused by her reaction. “I have something for you.” “What?” She was still very hesitant to come near me. I put my hand inside my pants pocket and pulled out the small velvet red box. “Here.” I opened the box and showed her the ring - an 18 carat-diamond set in platinum engagement ring glimmered. “OH.” The heavy lashes that shadowed her cheeks flew up. Her mouth dropped open. I went closer to her and took her left hand. “Should I propose to you on bended knee?” “NO. This is a fake marriage, it’s not necessary to do all that drama.” She looked up at me and that gave me the opportunity to study her face upclose. “If that’s what you want. But at least, let me slip the ring through your finger.” I held her trembling hand tightly. I didn’t give her a chance to say no. I slipped the ring through her finger and I was glad that it fitted well. Then I lifted her hand to my lips and planted a kiss to her ring finger. “Will you marry me Jade? I swear, you will not regret it.” “Eros, we agreed on this matter already, I’m not backing out on our contract.” Dammit. Does she have to spoil everything? Why can’t she just answer YES? Then suddenly, I pulled her in the circle of my arms – trapping her. I felt her instantly jerked away. “What are you doing?”

“Shhh… relax. You should get used being in my arms, Jade. We should act like a real engaged couple.” I tightened my hold on her and drawing her closer at the same time. Feeling her soft body against mine made me shiver with excitement. “So, what is this, practice, huh?” “Yes. You are really a smart girl.” I grinned at her. “Let me go, Eros, please.” “I will, after Lesson number one.” “Lesson number one? What is that?” “We should hug like this.” I pulled her tightly in my arms and encouraged her to hug me back. “Good girl.” I said when I felt her arms around my waist. “See, it’s easy, like ABC. Next…” “Wait, you said you will let me go after lesson number one.” She complained. “This is still under lesson number one, okay? Relax…” I felt her relaxed and so I continued giving her my lessons. “You should touch me like this.” I ran my hands from her hair, to her back, skimming her waist. “To be realistic. People expected us to be lovers.” “Oh, okay.” She said and followed my actions. She ran her hands from my stomach to my chest up and down – giving me goosebumps and awaken my sleeping testosterone. My whole body suddenly fired up. I couldn’t stand it anymore, I was burning with desire and I wanted her so badly, NOW. I held her face and kissed her cheek, her eyes, her nose, and then… she stopped me. “Wait. Is this part of lesson number one too?” “Yeah.” I angled my lips to meet hers, but she pushed me when my lips was just a mere inch away from hers. “I don’t think this lessons of yours is a good idea.” “Why not?” “We’re just pretending, okay. It would complicate things between us.” “Why? Are you afraid you’ll fall in love with me?” I teased her. “Me? Afraid? Never.” “Then what’s the problem. Come on, let’s continue with the lessons. We need to practice first.” “Sorry teacher, forget the other lessons, I found the subject so boring.” She tossed her hair and headed to the door. Dammit!I didn’t have a choice but to follow her. ---- Follow Me On Facebook: www.Facebook.com/meshackshaxee

Hmmmmm..... I'm speechless.. Eros should get this done once and for all, why is he wasting time when he knew he can't hold his feelings any longer?. Eros better tell Ginger-Jade how he feels before its too late!!! 1year marriage kor 1week dating ni!

Wetin dey do dis Eros gan sef...roman d0n tell maya hw im feel..u still dey there waste time...*dnt fall unda my ann0intinq o*

I always luv readin dis story

Eros its high tym u tell her ur feelings or I change ur name to error

Chapter Thirty Four (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here-- "You came like a thief in the night and stole my fragile heart, I wasn't prepared, you caught me off guard. I had fallen for you dearly, it wasn't done intentionally.. it just happened so fast. I love you now 'till forever lasts. --- The Thief by _MaskedPoet_ wattpad username: @her_alibi Jade’s POV “Where’s Jade?” I heard Mrs. Nina Petrakis whispered to her son the moment we entered the Petrakis’ mansion. “She’s in front of you, mom.” Eros laughed. “Jade? You mean… Jade?! Is that really you? You look so lovely!” She instantly embraced me and kissed my cheeks. “I’m so sorry dear, I didn’t recognize you.” Immediately, I was surrounded with the Petrakis family, who were so shocked of my transformation. Their eyes were scrutinizing my physical features one by one – assessing me up and down. Some had to blink several times to sink in in their minds that I was really Jade. My face felt so hot and I squirmed with embarrassment. Oh, I wished there was a hole that I could just crawl into and hide. “What happened to your black hair?” Eros cousin, Cassandra asked. “Did you dye your hair?” “No… umm… er…” “It’s her natural hair, Cass. She wore a black wig before, for a reason. Don’t ask any more questions about that, okay?” Eros said curtly and that made everyone refrained from asking too much questions about my transformation. I was glad that he was beside me. He rescued me from awkward questions and guarded me like a hawk. “I knew you’re a real beauty, Jade, you just don’t want to flaunt it.” Eros grandma, Mrs. Karina Anderson said. “Thank you, Mrs. Anderson.” “You’re gorgeous, no wonder Eros wanted you with him all the time. He knew all along that you’re a true beauty. Oh man… he has all the luck.” Paul muttered. “Now I understand why he’s so possesive of you, even with your coffee.” Mr. Markos Petrakis chuckled and looked at my hand clasped between Eros hands. “See, Nina? I was right. There’s something going on between them.” Mrs. Anderson shrilled with excitement. “Yeah, it seems like they can’t hide their feelings anymore.” Mrs. Petrakis replied. “You can’t hide your feelings for too long if you’re in love.” Claudia, Mrs. Petrakis’ sister butted in. “Right hon?” She continued, looking at her husband, Raymund. “Yes, indeed. You want to shout it to the whole world.” Raymund agreed. I was blushing and Eros was looking at me intently, a smile playing around his mouth. I had a feeling that he was enjoying the state that we were in at that moment. “This is so awkward.” I whispered to him. Then he pulled me away from the others – to the balcony. “Just relax.” He ducked down his head so closely that I could feel the heat of his body and inhaled his pure male scent deeply. My mind reeled – that made all analysis and logic flew away, and darn.. my traitorous body shivered, like a feverish chill. I backed a step away, my heart was beating so fast. Everything about him made me trembled.

“I can’t. My legs are trembling.” I was shocked of my own honesty. I bit my lower lip to stop myself from talking. “Yes, you can.” Then his hand touched my bare back. I couldn’t help but jerked from his touch. He noticed and grinned at me. “I told you. We should practice more often, so you will get used with me touching and - kissing you.” I glared at him – but his eyes were smiling at me. He looked so amused. “Don’t look at me like that.” “Like what?” “That look… You look so desirable when your eyes are flashing like that.” Desirable? My heart hammered foolishly in an instant. Stay calm Jade. Focus. I said to myself. I cleared my throat and inhaled deeply. “I’m mad. Can’t you tell?” He laughed - deep, warm and rich. “AH! You’re mad. I thought you’re giving me a ‘come and kiss me’ look.” “What? Excuse me?” “You know what, you remind me of my cat when I was in grade school. She had the same eye color as yours.” “Well, I hope she scratched you.” His expression suddenly changed. His brows were drawn together in a frown and his silvery grey eyes lost their teasing smile. “She did and I hope you won’t scratch me too, if I do this.” His hand slid up from the curve of my throat to my chin. His other hand pulled me and clamped my body tightly to his. I stiffened and gasped at the sudden contact. I tried to move away but it was impossible, he was so strong. “Stop fighting, they’re watching us.” I looked at the people inside the glass door of the balcony, but they appeared busy talking and drinking cocktails. They didn’t seem to notice us. “Let me go.” I demanded, flashing my eyes with anger. “I will after lesson number two.” A devilish look came into his eyes. “I told you I’m done with your lessons…” My last words were smothered on my lips when he dipped his head and claimed my lips. I was stunned and my heartbeat skyrocketed at the touch of his lips. So warm, moist and sweet… like a drug. His smell, his taste, his touch combined made me forget where I was… and I was afraid that I would also forget my name. The kiss was so different from the punishing kiss he gave me before. This kiss sent the pit of my stomach into a wild swirl. The caress of his lips on my mouth set my whole body aflame. Slowly, I responded to him, opening my lips to allow his tongue to explore the recesses of my mouth – his kiss was surprisingly gentle, slow and drugging. “Strawberry.” His lips brushed against mine as he spoke. “What?” My head was spinning wildly, like I’d just been in a rollercoaster ride. What did he say? I opened my eyes and found him gazing at me. “Your lips taste like strawberries.” “OH. It’s… it’s the lip gloss.” I realized that my hands were clinging to his neck. I tried to straightened up but my knees buckled. Oh God, if he ever let me go now, I would fall down on the floor. ---- Like My Page On Facebook: www.Facebook.com/meshackshaxee

Hmmmuuuaaaaa, good to go Eros

Chaiiiiii! See as all the Living thing in Petrakis Family as they are complementing Jade(I think their dogs are also shower her with praise)........ Eros, Mr skillful-planner, better just stop all the nonsense lesson, you be lecturer?.. Beauty (I rest my case*for court?*).......

U r improving @Erros

omo u don make me fall in loff ooo....

@Pastor Mathew Lol... You are realy in Loff.. Let me help you in pushing you into it and make you sink-sunk into it forever...

really lyk d chnges nxt plss

ah aaah bro khola..,u no like me at all o

@Pastor Mathew Nah because ah like you pass mah name make me wan help you in doing that o

Slowly I regained my composure, then removed my hands from his neck. I back away from him. Why did I respond to his kisses? Now I’m in deep trouble. I’m falling so hard for him… everyday my feelings for him intensified. “You’re really enjoying yourself with this pretense, Mr. Petrakis. Well, I’M NOT.” “So we’re back to Mr. Petrakis now? May I remind you Miss Collins that you agreed into this. It’s too late to back out now.” “No. I’m not backing out.” I said to him. I couldn’t back out, I needed the money for our family. “So what’s your problem? Acting like a real couple is part of the plan. We are supposed to be engaged, you have my ring on your finger.” I looked at the diamond ring on my finger, which I tried to hide since I got inside the Petrakis house, so no one would notice it. The diamond was so huge and very beautiful… and I was sure, so very expensive. I was embarrassed wearing it because ours was a fake engagement – the ring was like an ornament and not a symbol of love – eternal love. “Everything is so overwhelming. I just need a little time to get used to it.” “Sorry sweetheart, but we don’t have enough time.” He smiled sarcastically. I heaved a frustrated sigh. My shoulders slumped. I so hated the situation I was in. How I really wished that everything was real… the engagement… the wedding… the love and romance… the happily ever after. But my groom was not a prince charming material. He was not a believer of love, fairytales and happily ever after. He didn’t have a romantic bone in his body. He was like a machine, a robot… or an alien from another planet… no, probably not an alien, alien could fall in love too. “Jade, marrying me won’t be too bad, I promise you. I’m not an ogre.” Yes you are. A devilishly handsome ogre, that any woman would find hard to resist. “I know… and I’m not really afraid of you.” “Well, that’s a relief. I promise, we’ll take everything so slow. Your pace. Okay?” “Okay.” “Eros, they’re here.” I heard Paul said behind me. Eros nodded and dismissed Paul rightaway. “Come, let’s go inside. I have a surprise for you.” He led me inside, back in the living room and had me sitted on the sofa. He called everyone and they gathered all around me. “Close your eyes, Jade.” Paul almost shouted and laughed. Then everyone joined him - laughing. “Why?” I asked Eros. “It’s a surprise. Come on, close your eyes.” He settled on the sofa beside me and held my hand. I was electrified with his touch once again. I realized that Eros was right. I should get used with his touch to stop me from acting like a hormonal teenager everytime our skin touches. I closed my eyes. Then I heard him said. “Count up to ten, then you can open your eyes.” I counted obediently and so did the others. “Ten, Nine… Five…. Two, One.” I heard a commotion and girls hushing. Then, I opened my eyes. I was so surprise to see my mom and Sapphire in front of me. “M…mom? Saph?” I immediately stood up and hugged them both. Everyone was awed with our reactions, some clapped and others just observed us happily.

“You look so beautiful, Jade. I’m so happy that you finally came out of your shell.” “Thanks mom. I thought you went to your Bible study?” “I did, but I left early.” I looked at my mom’s outfit. She wore the beige satin dress I bought her last Christmas and my two-inch silver shoes - I wore at Chloe’s wedding. She was even wearing a light makeup. She looked very simple and beautiful. I was glad that she made an effort to dress up for this evening. “Eros called this morning to invite us for dinner. Donovan fetched us.” I looked at Eros who was smiling at me. I mouthed ‘thank you’ to him. Then my attention was focused at Sapphire, who looked so pretty in her pink cosplay dress – minus the wig and other accessories. She looked like a princess. I moved out from my mom’s embrace when I felt Eros hand on my back. “Jade.” He said. I didn’t know what happened, or who initiated first, but I was suddenly in his arms. The women giggled looking at us and their eyes were full of excitement. “Thank you for the surprise.” I whispered in his ear. Eros ducked his head and planted a soft kiss on my temple. “Anyting for you. It’s time to make our annoucement.” He said softly. I glanced at everyone in the room, eyeing us curiously – they looked so happy and enthusiastic for us. Eros and I wanted them to believe that we have a relationship, an affair – and it seemed like we succeeded. Mom and Sapphire were even smiling at us – their eyes were full of joy. I knew that they were surprise seeing me in Eros’ arms. It was the first time that they saw me getting so intimate with a man. They obviously assumed now that I have a serious relationship with Eros. Eros cleared his throat and everyone focused their attention to him. “Good evening everyone. Tonight is a very special occasion for me and Jade. I invited you all because we have an announcement to make.” He smiled and took my left hand with the glimmering diamond engagement ring on it. He raised my hand to his lips and kissed my fingers with his gazed fixed into my eyes. “We’re engaged.” “Whoah!” “What did he say?” “Really?” “Wow! Just wow!” “OH! I’m happy for you both.” “Congratulations!” I heard different reactions from everyone. But all were positive and happy. Then one by one, they hugged me and Eros, congratulated us for our upcoming wedding. I let them see my engagement ring. They were so awed with the beauty of the glimmering diamond. Mom and Sapphire were the last ones who congratulated us. “So this is why we’re here. To celebrate your engagement.” “Yes mom. I hope your heart managed the surprised.” “Of course, my heart is not that fragile anymore.” “Thanks God.” “I just wish that your dad is here to see you so happy.”

“He’s here mom. He’s here.” I assured my mom, trying not to shed a tear. My mom nodded. I knew she was holding back her tears too. “You’re so secretive Dee. How long have you been having an affair with Eros?” Saph asked me. “Not too long.” “You must love him so much cause you decided to show the real you.” She giggled happily- her cheeks turned red. “Yeah, I guess so.” “I’m happy for you Dee. I wonder what it feels to be in love. I wish I’ll meet my prince charming very soon. I want to know how it feels to be really in love.” Sapphire hugged me. “You will someday. You’re still young only seventeen.” “I’ll be eighteen in a few months.” She giggled again. “Awweeee… I thought you could never move on after Joseph. I’m so glad you did.” “Shh… don’t mention his name. Not here.” I whispered. “Sorry Dee.” She said, then whispered. “Who’s that guy in blue button-down shirt? “That’s Kobe Lastis, Eros’ cousin. Why?” “I caught him staring at me.” “Oh… Behave Saph.” --- like my page on facebook: facebook.com/meshackshaxee

I'm also suprise & amazed here, its just Woooow! Eros is just making things look real in the eye of people(his families and Jade's families) because he realy wish all what he is doing could be happening on a platnom truth.... Eros would change the wedding plan soon into Life Contract..... Saph sometimes says something funny, they are there for dinner and it instantly changed to Engagement celebration and she is seen someone looking at her.....!

hey some0ne stole my comment..who did that

Hmmm,i guess d marriage we never be broken cos eros ll also prove his luv 2 jade,welldone @shaxee

J̶̲̥̅̊u̶̲̅st hpi 4 both of dem

Happy 4 d both of u.

Chapter Thirty Five (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here— “Life isn't a fairytale but we can make it like a fairytale” ― Lucy 'Aisy Eros’ POV The date for the wedding was set already. It would be in a month’s time. But still I was so bothered - CONFUSED. I couldn’t be wrong. Jade and Ginger were one. But how come she didn’t remember me? Did she suffer from amnesia or post- concussion syndrome? Or did she have a twin? That’s Impossible! My mind won’t rest until I’ll find out the truth – and it has to be now. Let’s see… I found Jade in the patio sitting on a couch and talking to my cousin Cassandra, who was in an armchair opposite her. I immediately went towards them. “Are you ready to go home, Ginger?” Jade’s face immediately turned to me. Her eyes glared at me icily. “Ah… sure after a minute.” “Awwweeee, so cute, you call her Ginger.” Cassandra said. “I used to call my first boyfriend dreamboat and he called me sugar lips… so funny cause my second bf called me puppy… I hated it so I broke up with him after a month… my third bf called me ducky, eew! I couldn’t stand it… then my…” I sat beside Jade and planted a quick open- mouth kiss on her lips – nipping her lower lip. She didn’t protest but her eyes clawed at me like a talon. Jade turned to Cassandra again to listen. I drew her closer and put my right arm around her slim waist. I reached for her hand and laced her fingers with my own. They were talking about celebrities, fashion and books. And I was there, so engrossed of Jade. She was extremely beautiful and desirable, and I enjoyed just staring at her. Everything about her fascinated me. I touched her bare back, running my fingers slowly to her soft, smooth and flawless skin – up and down. It felt like silk on my fingers. She made a slight protest sound but eventually she relaxed. I pulled her closer and buried my face on her neck, inhaling her sweet delicious scent. I couldn’t stand it anymore, so I stole a kiss behind her earlobe – once, twice… the third time, I couldn’t control myself, I had to taste her… I ran my tongue to the sensitive area behind her ear, and I was right, she tasted so heavenly. Ouch! I groaned with pain.Jade’s elbowed the side of my stomach so hard. “Oh Cass! I think my lovey-dovey here is so sleepy already.” She faced me and pinched my cheeks with pressure. “Right sweetheart?” “Right, whatever you say, Ginger.” I rubbed my cheek. I felt like a naughty boy, scolded for tasting an icing of a cake. “We really have to go now.” Jade finished her flute of champagne and stood up abruptly. We were inside my car when Jade said sharply at me. “Don’t you ever call me Ginger again.” “Why not? You have a beautiful ginger-red hair. The endearment suits you.” I said, reaching a hand for her hair to touch its silkiness. She moved out of my reach and said. “Just don’t… don’t ever call me that. I don’t like it.” “Why?” “I said I don’t like it.”

“Jade, there has to be explanation why you don’t like to be called Ginger.” “Do I have to explain everything to you?” “No, but I’m just curious. Maybe it reminds you of someone calling you Ginger… probably a man you met in a bar?” “A bar? Excuse me Mr. Petrakis, I don’t have a habit of going to a bar.” I shook my head couldn’t believe what I’d heard. So she’s not Ginger? I didn’t want to pursue the conversation anymore. I knew she was so upset now. Calling me Mr. Petrakis when she was upset became a habit of hers. “Ok fine. If that’s what you want – I won’t call you ginger.” “That’s what I want.” She answered firmly then bent down and twisted her fingers. “I… I’m sorry I lost my temper.” “It’s that red hair of yours. I wonder how you managed to control yourself as my personal assistant for the past two years. There must be times that you wanted to throw something at me.” “Of course not. Not all redheads are hot tempered. I’m just more sensitive to your moods now than before.” “You’re more sensitive to my moods now… hmm… I should keep that statement in mind.” I smiled and gave her a sideway glance. “My side still hurts. You really have sharp elbows.” “Oh, I won’t say sorry for that, Mr. Petrakis. You deserved it.” I laughed aloud and said. “Oh God, have mercy. I thought I’ll be marrying a meek little wife.” “A meek little wife will bore you to death. You need someone to bring you down to earth from time to time.” “Oh my goodness, I’m learning some things about myself. I’m surprised! Being married to you is going to be like a rollercoaster ride.” **The following morning** I fetched Jade in their house. I was glad that she was not wearing a wig anymore. Her ginger-red hair cascaded down to her waist in layers beautifully. The big waves gave body to her silky long hair. But, her big black rimmed eyeglasses were back and her old fashioned clothes and shoes. Actually I didn’t mind her wearing what she felt comfortable with, but we couldn’t deny the fact that as human beings, we were all affected by what others think and do. It was fine if I was criticized or humiliated, I was used to it - but Jade? No way. I wouldn’t allow anyone… as in anyone to embarrass, laugh or hurt her. We were inside my office, in a round table. Jade was signing our marriage bargain agreement. She read the five pages contract so fast – then signed all the three copies. I wondered if she actually read all the conditions stipulated in the contract. “I’ll open a bank account for you tomorrow, so you will get your allowance every first week of the month.” “Thanks.” She glanced at me then looked at the contract again, continued signing it. “I’m not expecting you to work anymore. Just concentrate on your online studies – and accompany me in parties, events and my travels. Mrs. Wilson will take your place here in the office. Anyway, our administrative officer will help her settle things, I know they could handle it well.” “I could help them once in a while if you like.” She suggested. “I’ll probably get bored in the house after getting used doing a lot of things in the office.”

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Mrs jade petrakis

“No way, Jade, I won’t allow that. You will be my wife. You’re duty is to take care of my home.” And my needs. I wanted to add but didn’t want to scare the hell out of her. “Oh.” “I already contact a newspaper publishing company. They will announce our engagement tomorrow.” “Is that really necessary?” She put the signed contract in an envelope. “Of course. We will let everyone think that our engagement is real. This Saturday, we will invite all my friends, family, relatives and collegues. You invite yours too. It will be a grand celebration of our engagement party.” “I don’t think that’s appropriate since this is a fake marriage.” “Jade, everyone is expecting it from me – us. You have to get used to it.” “I don’t think I’ll get used to it easily. You’ve been my boss for two years and it’s not easy to start thinking of you as my husband. I feel like I’m dreaming – marrying a man of the world.” I exhaled heavily. “What are you talking about? I’m a very ordinary, normal guy.” She stared at me, her expression so thoughtful. She rubbed her lips with her thumb and said. “Normal, yes, but not ordinary.” I stood up and went towards her. I grabbed her hands and pulled her up. “I’ll prove to you that I am.” She nodded and smiled at me. “Come on, let’s go.” “Where?” She replied. “I’m going to take you shopping.” “Shopping?” “Yes. Clothes, shoes, bags, gowns, lingeries, jewelries, whatever you like, sky’s the limit.” Jade looked so surprised. She twisted her fingers again and bit her lips. “You’re going to clothe me… like a doll?” “Not a doll but a very special woman - my soon to be wife. Any objection with that?” “Um… er.. no.” “So? Let’s go.” We went to Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. We had lunch then went to different stores: Chanel, Armani, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Versace, etc. I enjoyed seeing Jade trying on different kinds of clothes - in different colors and textures. She looked extremely beautiful and desirable in sexy cocktail dresses, gowns and skintight clothes. Even in casual clothes, like jeans, skirts, shorts, shirts and blouses - she looked astonishing. She also tried different shoes and stilettos that emphasized her sexy slim legs and thighs. I was sweating with desire, watching her in those sexy clothes. She was swaying her hips, turning left and right, flaunting her figures and flinging her arms in front of me asking for approval if the dress suited her or not. She was obviously enjoying herself and - I was enjoying it more. She was strikingly lovely and my body reacted so strongly to her. Different images of her naked on my bed, in my bath tub, in the kitchen, dining table and in the living room sofa crossed my mind. Damn it. What is wrong with me? **Engagement Party – Grand Ballroom of St. Regis New York** Jade looked so beautiful in her pink floor length off-shouldered evening gown. It fitted nicely on her body, emphasizing her uptilted breasts and curved hips. A strap around her waist defined its smallness.

The upper half of her red hair was pulled up and tendrils in soft curls flowed down on her waist – looking smooth and shiny like silk. I fetched Jade in their house. I was so awed the moment I saw her that my steps faltered at the carpeted floor. She was breathtakingly lovely and there was no word that I could describe how beautiful she was. I was tongue-tied. She looked like a princess – a fairy – an angel. “Do you like my dress, Eros?” “Yes! You look so beautiful, Jade.” I greeted her with a soft kiss. “I have something for you.” “What is it?” I showed her a black velvet box and opened it for her. Her eyes immediately lit up seeing the emerald necklace. “It’s beautiful and looks very expensive.” I smiled and put the emerald necklace around her neck. She looked more beautiful with the in it. “It matches your green eyes.” “Yeah, it is. Thank you.” She whispered. In the party, Stella Valiente was among the first guests who arrived, together with her parents and brothers. I greeted her. “Hello, Stella. It’s good to see you again.” “Where’s your secretary?” Stella said sharply. “I don’t have any idea. But I’m sure I’ve invited Mrs. Wilson, she’s here somewhere.” “Hmp. I thought you’re going to marry me. You made me believe that you will and all along, you have an affair with your secretary. My family was even expecting it. I’ve waited for years Eros, years! This is a big humiliation on my part. I won’t ever forgive you for this” “Well, thank you Stella, nicely said. Have you taken your medicine? Or you’re just so hungry. Anyway, enjoy the food and drinks.” I turned to the other visitors and shook their hands, ignoring Stella who was glaring at me. Later that evening, Kendra Packer arrived. She was with her new boyfriend, a good friend of mine, former UFC champion Chuck Harris, who was twice my age. “Your fiancee looks so innocent, like a virgin. I wonder if she satisfies you in bed. Kendra laughed so hard. Bitch! Why did she often ended up with my friends? “Definitely, that’s why I’m marrying her.” Kendra’s face looked hurt, then managed to smile. “Goodluck.” She immediately spun around and went back to her boyfriend. I introduced Jade to everyone, my family, friends, former classmates, colleagues, etc. She looked so happy, smiling to everyone. I met her aunt Annie, a nun, and her grandma too. Before the night ends, Jade and I danced alone in the grand ballroom. Our bodies were swaying gracefully in rhyme with the music. I swirled, dipped, swung her on the dance floor. I was enjoying her closeness… the feel of her in my arms felt so good. Our eyes locked and our breathing in unison as we danced. I felt blood coursing through my veins like an awakened river. ♪♬You’re in my arms, and all the world is calm The music playing on for only two So close together and when I'm with you So close to feeling alive ♪♯♫ ♫A life goes by, romantic dreams will stop So I bid mine goodbye and never knew So close was waiting, waiting here with you And now forever I know, all that I wanted to hold you so close♪♫ ♪♫So close to reaching that famous happy end Almost believing this was not pretend Now youre beside me, and look how far weve come So far we are so close ♪♬♫ ♫Oh, how could I face the faceless days If I should lose you now? ♪♬ ♬Were so close to reaching that famous happy end And almost believing this was not pretend Lets go on dreaming for we know we are So close, so close and still so far♬♪ Finally, the music ended. Just in time, I swung her in the circle of my arms - and my mouth covered hers hungrily. Everyone in the room was looking at us with excitement. They clapped and cheered for us.

so lovely

Wwoowowwwoowowowo,dis story Ȋ̝̊̅§ so interesting

Great! It all look so fun to Eros, but it looks like boring contract to Jade...... Engagement had been done, everyone(Families) had known each other, the next step is*I don't know*......... Hope Saph is there to see someone looking at her again?

@Bella Emmy Wetin I do??

Chapter Thirty Six (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here-- "If you love two people at the same time, choose the second. Because if you really loved the first one, you wouldn't have fallen in love with the second." - Johnny Depp, actor. Jade’s POV “Ooopss!” I exclaimed when I bumped at someone and felt the cold liquid that ran from my chest down to my thighs. I looked at my gown and suddenly gasped with horror as I saw the marked of red wine on it. “Your fault. You were the one who bumped at me.” I heard a feminine voice, followed by a soft shrill of laughter. I looked up and saw Kendra Packer, smiling at me - a smile that didn’t even reach her eyes. “I’m sorry. I didn’t see you.” I apologized gently and looked at the stain on my gown again. I felt so dismayed because it was a very expensive signature gown. What if the stain won’t be removed? “You deserved much more than that. You, bitch. Pretending to be a nerd and all along you planned on seducing Eros. HA! Nice trick.” Kendra said in a gentle melodious way and with a sarcastic smile plastered on her face. “You may feel like Cinderella with your not so impressive transformation - and marrying a young billionaire, but you are still the same, a boring ugly little mouse, no matter what expensive labels you wear.” She looked at me from head to toe, as if assessing my value. “You think you hit the jackpot in marrying Eros, but he’ll be so bored with you and come back to me.” I decided to stay silent and ignore her. Girls like Kendra Packer loved to hate and wouldn’t stop inflicting pain till she had enough. “Thank you for your words of advice. Good night.” I smiled at her then left. I looked around for Eros, but he was at the far end of the room, looking so tall and devilishly handsome in black tuxedo. He was talking to Stella Valiente and her hand was on his arm. They held each others eyes and were smiling. Then Eros covered Stella’s hand. Gosh! I felt a sudden tinge of jealousy but decided to ignore it. I don’t have a right to be jealous. Our engagement is not real. I don’t own his heart. He may feel something for me – something special, but it’s not love. He made it clear that he doesn’t believe in love and romance, so I should not expect it from him or I’ll get hurt. I don’t want to get hurt again - and rejected, just like Joseph did. Joseph… yes… this morning was his wedding day. He’s already married right now… and probably started his honeymoon with his new wife. I was on my way to the ladies room when I met Chloe, Eros sister. She just arrived this afternoon from her honeymoon with her new husband, Iñigo Monteiro, to attend our engagement party. She looked so vibrant and glowing in her red floor-length halter gown. “What happened to your dress?”

“I bumped at Eros’ ex, Kendra Packer.” “Hmm… she intentionally spilled the wine on your dress. She’s jealous that you’re marrying Eros.” “I guess I have to get used of many women hating me for marrying your brother.” Chloe laughed and nodded her head. “Right. Anyway, Iñigo and I have a room upstairs. Come, I brought an extra gown for tonight, it’s new. You can change into it. Consider it as my engagement gift to you.” I went with Chloe to her room. The gown she gave me turned out to be a very elegant strapless mermaid gown in beige color. The bodice had gems, stones and sequins on it. It fitted so nicely, showing my cleavage and emphasizing the curves of my body. It made me looked so stunning, sexy and yet, regal. Chloe twisted my hair in a bun that showed the delicate lines of my neck and the emerald necklace that Eros gave me. She retouched my makeup. Added darker eyeshadows and mascara to my eyes to make it more dramatic. She changed my lipstick from red to light peach color. “There. You look so pretty. I’m sure Eros will flip over when he sees you.” Chloe said with excitement on her face. I felt so excited also, anticipating Eros’ reaction when he’d see me in this gorgeous gown. I wished Chloe was right – that he would flip over. The thought made me smile and giggle a bit. I didn’t know why, but recently, I wanted to please him… and I wanted to be beautiful in his eyes. Chloe and I went back to the grand ballroom after twenty minutes. I was so excited to see Eros reaction. But, I was the one who got the surprise. He was in the dance floor with Stella. They were in each other’s arms, dancing to sweet music - their bodies swayed together. They were smiling and talking. I went outside to the balcony, wanted to be alone. I felt sad and jealous seeing Eros with Stella. They looked so good together… suited for each other. Both were beautiful, highly educated, mingled with the same people and equally rich. Chloe also mentioned that Eros considered marrying Stella before and their parents really vied for it. I inhaled deeply to loosen my nerves. I was angry of him too, of myself and the situation we were in. Pretending to be in love… to be happy… that oftentimes, I forgot… and stopped pretending anymore. I wondered how it would be like being married to Eros – with this marriage deal. Maybe he would still continue dating girls and having mistresses. Yes, he would continue enjoying his bachelor life, since we had an agreement that we wouldn’t be sharing a room and a bed - and there wouldn’t be any physical contact between us. No woman to warm his for a year… I was sure, he couldn’t live with that. He was a hot-blooded male. If only our marriage is real… if only he loves me like I do. Everything was just business for Eros - I remembered him introduced me to Mr. Klein Bergmann, the Chief of Finance of German Marine International Shipping Company a while ago.

“You have a very beautiful wife, Mr. Petrakis. No wonder you’re in a hurry to marry her.” Mr. Bergmann laughed. “Thank you Mr. Bergmann. I hope you’ll be in our wedding.” Eros pulled me closer to his side and put a possessive hand around my waist. “I’ll be there and I will bring our contract.” “Good. I’m looking forward to sign it.” Eros replied. I heaved a sigh and just smiled at them. Eros suddenly looked so excited, then glanced at me with a gleam in his eyes. He always had that look whenever he closed a business deal. Yeah, he would do anything just to get hold a major deal. It was his obsession, his cravings – his greed. “Jade!” Sapphire’s voice made my scattered brain cells came together, bringing me back to the present. I shivered from the cold air then turned to her. Sapphire looked so pretty in her aquamarine gown with her long brown hair styled like Elsa of frozen. “Look who’s here?” Saph said. I grinned at my sister who was standing at the doorway of the balcony. Her eyes opened so wide with excitement. “Who?” My jaw dropped open the moment I saw him stepped in the balcony. I blinked several times to check if I was not hallucinating. It was real, he was there standing in front of me. Tall, rawboned, beardless with an ingenously appealing face. He looked very different now - touch, lean and sinewy. His thick and straight blond hair gleamed in the lights. He was gorgeous, strikingly attractive with dark eyes and a secret expression. What is he doing in here? This morning was his wedding. His appreciative eyes traveled from my head to toe, then his eyes caught and held mine. His firm mouth curled in a smile. “Ginger.” I gasped and said. “Joseph.”

Good! Hope Eros is there to heard Joseph calling you Ginger?????? You don't need to feel jealous, Eros is just trying to pleased them all excluding Kendra......... Eros also would feel like strangle someone if he sees you with another guy....SECRET LOVE. JEALOUSY IN SECRET. (KELEKELE LOVE)

Wat a story......hope joseph Ȋ̝̊̅§ nt der to spoil show

Op Joseph isn't dia to spoil tinz. Diz yur "I wish luv" hmmmmm! 1 of yu sud just braced up n tell d oda. Or u nid help?

Nyc story so far

Hmmmm,interestin!!

i belive dis marriage is for real..hope joe wnt mk her change her mind..kudos shaeex

Next nao

U r putting us in so much suspence @shaxee,plss continue,thumbup

Guys am through with the construction of my blog... Pls visit and read some series https://shaxeeng.wordpress.com/2015/03/29/the-bad-boy-stole-my-bra/

Already visited but can't register

shaxee what is keepin dis stry naaa.... Ur blog is gud but difficult to register...

What do I call that@Anuoluwa?joke? Or revelation?

yes the story is copied.. I just edited and included name of the original author... However I think Shaxee updates the story the moment the author posts a new episode in his page...

@Harnuholuwa01 Does anybody here ask for anything from you? Wether Shaxee is getting praise on what he does or doesn't.... Before someone could even copy others work and get praised wasn't/isn't a little work, You can also do yours and see how easy it is..! We have already known all what you are saying, its not new, so keep the news for another day......... We have seen the name of the real Author of the story when it was been attached to the title.... If you feel like condemning him on what he just did, you can contact him or the Real Author, don't start condemning him here..........

ogbeni aanuoluwa..ja danu..stp campaininq afta election

Story 4 d gods, well sha d deed has bn done, we're still behind u @shaxee, please continue wen u cn.

Shaxee pele nau, oya continue

Kip it rolling @shaxee!

Chapter Thirty Seven (Unedited) --Kindly add your playlist here--- "Love and electricity are one in the same, my dear. If you do not feel the jolt in your soul every time a kiss is shared, a whisper is spoken, a touch is felt, then your not really in love at all." - C. J. Franks Jades’ POV “I’ll leave you two, now. I promised Kobe a dance.” Sapphire said before she left us. Joseph and I just continued staring at each other. I couldn’t tear my gaze away from him. His compelling eyes riveted me to the spot. He was watching me intently. He was still the same after four years, a very handsome man with sunny hair and dreamy, tender eyes. The man I admired and hero-worshipped. But now, he looked more confident, wiser and very respectable. He extended his hand towards me and I impulsively laid my hand on his. Then in an instant, he pulled me in the circle of his arms. I was breathless – like I was a girl of eighteen again. “I miss you.” Joseph said in a deep-timbered voice. He bent down his head and kissed my cheek. “I… I miss you too.” He gave me a satisfied grin then hugged me tightly. My arms went around his waist and my face was pressed on his chest. We held each other like that for a few minutes. I started to get emotional but I was trying so hard to be strong and held back my tears. The tears of mixed emotions – tears of joy in seeing him again, tears of the miserable years I bore of losing him as my first love and tears of anger for his sudden disappearance in my life. He loosen his embrace and drew me to the far end of the balcony. “I was right. You would turn out to be a knocked-out when you grow up.” I knew I was blushing. My face suddenly felt like being heated in a microwave. Slowly, I moved out of his embrace and leaned on the balcony railings. “You look absolutely beautiful, Ginger. I have never seen anyone as beautiful as you.” He studied my face with his enigmatic gaze for an extra beat, then his eyes cast downward to my lips -- his expession suddenly became gloomy. “You’re getting married.” His tone was more like an accuse rather than a statement. “Yes.” I said in a soft whisper. My fingertips played with my engagement ring, rubbing the shimmering diamond. “And you just did… this morning.” A muscle quivered at his jaw. His expression was sullen. “I didn’t.”

“You didn’t?” My body stiffened in shock. My goodness, he didn’t get married. I felt like my heart was about to burst with…. Joy? Sadness? Bitterness? I didn't know. Am I hoping for another chance with him? “I broke up with her a few days ago. I can’t go through with the wedding.” “Why did you do that?” “Because all along, I was deceiving Rosie – and myself.” He growled like a wounded animal. “What do you mean? I don’t understand.” “You won’t understand if I’ll tell you now, Ginger.” He replied sharply. I nodded feeling hurt – he was shutting me out again, like he always did four years ago. He didn’t trust me with his secrets. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to be too nosy. I just want to help.” “No, don’t feel bad. I’m not angry with you. I’m furious with myself… for not being honest with what I truly feel.” He moved in front of me and looked at me thoroughly with gloomy eyes. Then his hand touched my cheek in a soft caress. “Ginger, tell me the truth, are you in love with him?” I was silent for a while. I didn’t know how to answer Joseph’s question. Should I be honest with him that I loved Eros, but Eros didn’t love me back? Should I tell him the truth that my marriage with Eros would be for a business reason only and it would be terminated after a year? “Of course you do. What a silly question.” He laughed with a tone of bitterness. His hand instantly dropped on his side. Then he kept on shaking his head. “I’m a fool, a big fool.” I was confused looking at him. “Joseph... you know you’re not. You won’t achieve your dream of becoming a doctor if you are.” “HA! Because of pursuing that dream – I lost the woman I love.” His shoulders slumped forward and I instantly noticed the dark circles around his eyes. He looked so drain and exhausted. “What do you mean? You were supposed to marry her?” He shook his head again. “I’m not talking about Rosie, I’m talking about someone – a girl who looks like her… whom I was crazily in love with… almost all my life. But I promised to her dad not to break her heart.” “What are you talking about?” My heart started to throb wildly. “I know it’s useless to talk about it Ginger… I was four years too late. I can see you’re very happy with your fiance. I can’t compete with him, he is filthy rich. He have everything in life and he can give you everything you want. I don’t envy him for his material things… but I’m jealous of him, for having you.” What? My eyes opened wide. I stood there, blank, shocked and shaken of his revelation.

“Are you saying that you’ve been in love with me?” I heard his quick intake of breath. “Yes. Eversince I first laid eyes on you. Until now… I just can’t stop loving you.” I was tongue-tied. Damn him. I waited for him to say these words for years... and now, he had the nerve to say it in my engagement party. How dare he! My temper suddenly flared. I did what I thought was the right thing to do at that moment. I moved closer to him and slapped his face. “Ouch! What is that for?” Joseph's eyes opened wide. The slap took him by surprise. He was rubbing his cheek. “That is for the four years of making me miserable. How dare you not telling me that you loved me. You broke my heart believing that you only cared for me as a sister. You made me feel so guilty, humiliated and dirty, of giving you that kiss! I had years of sleepless nights because of that.” “Believe me, Ginger, I had sleepless nights too because of that kiss. The taste of your sweet lips lingered in my mouth for years. I wish I broke my promise to your dad and told you how I really felt towards you. He knew that we loved each other and he made me promise not to hurt you. At that time, it was very inappropriate to tell you. Your dad was very sick and I was leaving for Southern Africa. I knew that telling you how I felt could just add to your pain.” I swallowed hard, lifted my chin and boldly met his gaze. “Nevertheless, I was hurt.” “I’m very sorry.” He growled and shoved his hands in his pants pockets. “I just did what I thought what was best for you. You were too young at that time, still eighteen and I was twenty three.” I fell silent all of the sudden. The memories of what transpired four years ago creeped in, haunting me – like a ghost. I gulped hard and hot tears rolled down my cheeks. “For years, I was miserable. It was so hard coping the pain of losing you… then dad.” “Ginger, please… I can’t bear seeing you cry. I’m sorry. I’m really so sorry. Please… forgive me.” He reached out his hand and touched my cheek, wiping my tears. Then he wrapped his arms around my midriff and pulled me so close to him… comforting me. I relaxed, sinking into his cushioning embrace. His hand was caressing my spine up and down. Everything was like a dream, so calm and tranquil… my nerves started to relax and I felt sleepy… until a very sharp voice broke the silence - made me instantly wide awake and alerted. “Holy fucking shit! What the hell is going on here!” I looked at Eros standing at the balcony door, glaring at us with murderous eyes. ***Don’t forget to Vote, Comment and Share to your friends.*** You can attack the characters of my stories, but please... not me as the author - saying I am "Nakakainis" "WTF" and calling me a "Pervert." I am human too, I have feelings.

N̶̲̥̅̊o vex my guy Nice story Ɣo̲̣̣̥ΰ got Kip dy gud work goin @joseph dnt try nonesence oooooooo,Ɣo̲̣̣̥ΰ cnt nt leave sumbody for 4 gud yrz nd still expect her to be der 4 Ɣo̲̣̣̥ΰ,J̶̲̥̅̊u̶̲̥̅̊ƨ̣̣̣̇̇̇̇τ̣̣̥ leave jade nd Eros alone,N̶̲̥̅̊Ơ̴̴͡ put sand 4 der garri oooooo

hmmmm what can I say Joseph deserve d slap & now dat Eros got both of u in dat position u r in a hot soup. I wonder what his reaction will be.

Y is joseph showing up nau... After xo many years.

Jo-seph go away, don't cum again anoda day eros nd ginger want to wed!!!!!!!

Plz don't kip us waiting 4 d next

Chapter Thirty Eight (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here— “And yes, I’ll admit, I am jealous. I’m jealous of every minute you spend with him, of every concerned expression you send his way, of every tear shed, of every glance, every touch, and every thought. I want to rip him to pieces and purge him from your mind and from your heart. But I can’t.” ― Colleen Houck Eros’ POV If murder is not crime, then I have killed a man now. I was blinded with fury when I saw Jade hugging another man. She looked so peaceful, happy and comfortable in his arms.I’d never seen her looked like that when she was with me. Not even once did she submit herself freely in my arms - like she did with that guy! My hands trembled and my blood was heated with rage and jealousy. I wanted to smash the guy’s face, knocked him down, senseless, whoever he was. Better yet, KILL HIMon the spot. Nobody, as in NOBODY touches my Jade. “Holy fucking shit! What the hell is going on here!” Jade looked so shocked. Like a flash of lightning, she immediately backed away from the guy. She gasped and her eyes widened with fear. Yes, she knew me too well, and she knew what I was capable of doing in situation like this. “Eros, calm down. It’s not what you’re thinking.” Her voice rose an octave. “Who are you kidding, Jade?” HA! They even chose the darkest spot of the balcony - at the farthest end, where they were partially hidden by hanging ferns and lanterns. Dammit. They were so engrossed with each other that they didn’t notice me watching them for more than a minute already. What the fuck! The guy even called her Ginger! I got it now – LOUD AND CLEAR. So that was the reason she didn’t want me to call her ‘Ginger’. This guy here used that as his term of endearment for her. He was obviously a special guy in her life! Fucking shit, why didn’t she told me that she was in love with someone else. Oh God. I wanted to yell at her, to shake and punish her - then ripped that guy’s throat! I strode closer to them and Jade moved towards me, meeting me half way in the balcony. I knew what she was trying to do, blocking my way to get hold of the guy. Great! She was defending him! “Eros… let me explain.” “Explain what? I saw you in his arms. Dammit! We’re not even married yet and you’re cheating on me!” I spat the words out of my mouth and clenched my fists tightly. I didn’t care if I hurt her or not at that moment. I was consumed with rage and jealousy.

“What?” Jade gave me a hostile glare. “You’re overreacting!” “Hey man, you’re assuming things. Ginger…” I raised a hand, signalling the guy to stop. “Shut up! I’m not talking to you.” His calling Jade ‘Ginger’ made my anger a scalding fury. I had an urge to punch his face right there and then. I moved closer to the guy, but Jade blocked my way again. “Eros… don’t you ever harm him.” Jade looked at me with burning, reproachful eyes. “Joseph and I are just childhood friends.” I stood frozen in an instant. Joseph? Did I hear her right? She said Joseph. The name of this guy is Joseph? I looked at the guy then to Jade, then looked at the guy again. What the fuck is going on here? He couldn’t be Joseph – because… I AM JOSEPH. I held Jade’s bare arms and stared at her eyes. “No Jade, he’s not Joseph. I can assure you, he is not YOUR JOSEPH. I am your Joseph, for Christ’s sake. Remember, us, in the bar, four years ago?” Jade looked at me strangely. “What are you talking about? I haven’t met you in a bar before. Why do you keep on insisting that?” “Because that’s the truth. He is not the real Joseph.” “Of course he is Joseph. I’ve known him almost all my life.” “That’s right, Mr. Petrakis. I’m Dr. Joseph Nevin.” The guy extended his hand to shake mine but I ignored it. He coughed and said before he left. “Um… excuse me. I have a phone call to make.” The silence grew tight with tension between Jade and I. Our eyes duelled. Then she looked away. I was confused. I felt like the neurons in my brain became dysfunctional. My brain refused to register why she couldn’t remember meeting me in the bar – and I couldn’t come up a logical reason why in the world he was Joseph when I was her real Joseph. I remembered our conversation in the club four years ago---- “Ginger…. That suits you, I’ll call you Ginger.” “Yeah, Ginger… I like that.” She smiled and nodded. “And what’s your name?” “Hmm… nice try. I won’t tell you my real name. You can call me anything you want too.” I replied. “Okay… um… I’ll call you… Joseph.” She said.

Later that same night… “Joseph, I love you, please don’t leave me.” --- * I rubbed my forehead trying to analyze the whole situation. What the hell! I couldn’t be wrong, Jade was Ginger. I remembered her dancing a bit wildly and getting drunk that night. I knew she had a problem that she was trying to forget. Maybe because of the death of her father… or maybe she was also brokenhearted. Right. She was brokenhearted. Obviously by a guy named Joseph -- Dr. Joseph Nevin. Fucking shit! She pretended that I was Joseph that night! “You’re lying.” I shot her a cold look. “I know you remember that night.” “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” She was clenching her teeth. She was furious. “You pretended I was Joseph that night. You… you used me!” I couldn’t contain my anger anymore. “Please… stop it. I’m not the girl you’re talking about. I haven’t met you… ever before.” Her lips thinned with anger. “You’re lying. I know you’re lying Jade… or Ginger… whatever your name is.” I growled and walked towards the stairs at the side of the balcony going down to the pool area. My pride was so hurt. I felt betrayed by her. I just wanted to leave -- away from her and the fucking engagement party. “Where are you going?” Jade was trailing behind me. “To hell!” I paused and looked up at her. She was at the top of the concrete stairs and I was at the bottom glaring at her. “You can’t just leave. Please…” I heaved a long sigh and stared at her. She was so beautiful standing there – like a temptress.. a seductress. Oh God, the thought of her with another man drove me crazy. Why couldn’t she like me? Dammit! I shook my head and left her as fast as I could. I headed to the parking area, where my car was. I’ve never been so upset in my life. I drove so fast… without any direction. I was blinded with rage. I was not thinking if I would die that night. I just stomped the accelator of my Bugatti Veyron to the maximum speed - trying to make the car fly.

Wat Ȋ̝̊̅§ dis?????????? Ahhhhh @shaxee Ɣo̲̣̣̥ΰ don dy fall hand oooo,so after all dis days,dis all Ɣo̲̣̣̥ΰ could update...anyway nice job sha.

Eros plz don't kill ursef cox of love ooooooo. Buh dunno y u find it hard t tell her aw u feel.

Tanks 4 postin dis chapter @shaxee, bt please kip d update constant lyk d others, i really luv dis story.

Diz wot always happenz wen 2 pipl in luv fails 2 admit 2 dia feelings. Jst dnt go & crash urself coz of anger. @ Dr. Joseph, Y wld u choose dia engagement nyt 2 profess & admit ur feelings 2 Jade? Wotz ur plan 4 doin dat & wot do u stand 2 achieve by dat stunt u jst playd @ Siphirah or woteva dey calls u(Jade's kid Sis) Y did u invite Joseph 2 dat party self? Shebi u wan put sand sand 4 Euros garri

hmmmmm....... Secret Love.... Lack Of Courage.

Chapter Thirty Nine (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here— “We are all mistaken sometimes; sometimes we do wrong things, things that have bad consequences. But it does not mean we are evil, or that we cannot be trusted ever afterward.” ― Alison Croggon Jade’s POV I was restless, trying to figure out what to do. Eros was so mad at me. He saw me in Joseph’s arms. Eros was jealous of Joseph. I heaved a frustrated sigh and paced the balcony. What was his problem? Joseph and I were only hugging – as friends. Friends do hug. Oh my… Eros was overreacting. He didn’t even give me a chance to explain. He immediately assumed that I cheated on him. I was mad at him too for saying that ‘we were not even married yet and I was cheating on him already.’ Cheated on him? Really? Our engagement was FAKE, as well as the upcoming marriage. He didn’t even have a right to be jealous. He was not my boyfriend. He seemed to forget that we were only pretending. And what about him? He was with Stella. So cozy and having fun dancing in each others arms – as if they were the engaged couple. I dreaded the thought of them together. I was tormented by jealousy again. Where is Eros now? I was so worried. I hope he wouldn’t do anything stupid. He drove his car so fast when he was upset and it scared me. I wouldn’t forgive myself if something bad would happen to him. I loved him and I didn’t want him to get hurt. I guess I have to tell Eros the truth that it was he, I truly loved, not Joseph, so he wouldn’t get jealous anymore. But… what if it would scare him off? He didn’t believe in love and romance – and that would be so awkward. Oh God, I didn’t want to repeat the same experience I had before with Joseph. That was so humiliating. I couldn’t bear another rejection either. It would surely shatter me. I went inside the grand ballroom again then headed to the ladies room to freshen up. “Dee.” Sapphire entered the ladies room as soon as I got in. “Joseph left.” “He left?” I was disappointed. I really wanted to talk to Joseph and apologized for Eros behavior. Besides, there were things we needed to clear up. A lot of things I wanted to ask, like why did he broke up his engagement. Joseph was a friend… a childhood friend – and more like a brother to me. We were neighbors and we grew up together. It would be hard to just forget about him… and forget that he existed. He was part of who I became now. He had a big influence in my life. Even my mom and Sapphire treated him like a family. Yes, I was shocked when he confessed that he loved me - all this time. But he was a jerk for not telling me. Things would be different if he confessed his feelings for me four years ago. My life wouldn’t be so hard… and my struggles wouldn’t be so bad.

If that happened, I probably wouldn’t meet Eros. Our path wouldn’t cross because I wouldn’t be working in a coffee shop and I wouldn’t be wearing a disguise. Sapphire’s shrill voice made me drifted back to the present. “Yes. He said he’ll talk to you tomorrow. Mom invited Joseph in the house tomorrow night for dinner.” “OH.” Now, I was disturbed. Eros wouldn’t like that for sure. “Why did Joseph left suddenly? What happened?” Saph was facing the mirror, fixing her hair. “I… he….” I let out an exasperated sigh. “Our conversation didn’t go well.” “You can continue your conversation tomorrow. I’m sure you’ll patch up any conflict you have with him.” “Yeah, I hope. Um.. Saph. How did Joseph knew that I’m getting married. Did you tell him?” “No. Of course not. He saw the news in the papers. He messaged me in Facebook last night, if he could come. I said, maybe you wouldn’t mind, since he was like a family to us. You don’t mind, right?” “No. No, I don’t mind.” I replied. Putting my sister’s mind at rest. She had a wonderful night and I didn’t want to ruin her feastive mood. I’d seen her with Eros cousin, Kobe Latsis all night. They were almost inseparable. It was so obvious that Kobe was so smitten by her. I had to warn Sapphire to finish her studies first before entering a serious relationship. I didn’t want her to be like me - until now, still struggling to finish my online college degree. It was almost eleven in the evening and I was seated at a table, alone. Sapphire was dancing with Kobe again and mom was talking with her new friends at the other table. I looked at my bracelet wrist watch for the nth time. Eros was gone for almost an hour already. Some guests wondered were he was and I had to lie - telling them that he was just around talking about business. I was a bit tipsy, drinking too much champagne. I had to - to keep myself occupied and sane. I was so worried about Eros. I sent him a text message, asking where he was, even called him twice, but he didn’t answer. Where is he? Is he coming back? I stood up and headed to the balcony. I needed fresh air. The loud music gaves me a headache already and the place started to suffocate me. A few guests were in the balcony so I went down to the pool area. There, I was alone. I was staring at the koi fishes in a small pond. There were about twenty of them, in orange, white and black colors – with spots. I was so fascinated by them that I didn’t hear someone came and stood beside me. “Very beautiful.”

I turned and saw Eros staring at me. “Yeah, they are.” I hugged my arms. “I mean, you.” He continued staring at me. His eyes were dark and unfathomable. “Oh.” My face felt so warm all of the sudden. I knew I was blushing. I murmured my thanks and switched my eyes back to the fishes. I was so relieved that Eros was back and - safe. My troubled spirits quieted. I was stupid worrying too much about him. I had weird imagination on what happened to him – a car accident, his car fell on a cliff, he was soaked with blood, he was unconsious, someone found him half dead… and was brought in the emergency room. Oh God… I was mentally tormented. “Do you still love him?” His question surprised me. He was obviously referring to Joseph. “No.” I immediately answered him. “Joseph was never my boyfriend. I… I just had a big crush on him. But now, not anymore. He’s a good friend.” His tight expression relaxed in a smile. He looked at me intently, then raked his eyes boldly over me. My heart jolted and my pulse pounded. Oh my… I knew that look. He moved closer and stopped in front of me. My whole being seemed to be filled with waiting for his next move. I tried to throttle the dizzying current racing through me. His hand reached out and touched my arm. I felt the tantalising effect of his fingertips sliding my arm upward, along the naked curve of my throat until it cupped my chin. I stiffened. A delicious shudder heated my body and his nearness made my head spin. I couldn’t even tear my eyes off him. His other hand pulled me roughly to him, that I gasped. “Eros, let me go.” I twisted in his arms and arched my body, I sought to get free. I was fighting my desire for him. It became dangerous, uncontrollable and addictive. “Kiss me, Jade.” He whispered into my hair. “No.” “Please. Just one kiss, freely given, then I’ll let you go.” Both of his arms were around me now, holding me tightly. My soft curves molded to the contours of his lean body. And it created delicious and unexplainable sensations all throughout my body. “Promise?” “Promise. Cross my heart.” Oh God. He was really detemined not to let me go until I gave him a kiss. I leaned forward and stood on tip-toe. I kissed his lips briefly.

“Cheat.” He frowned. “That’s not a kiss.” “It is a kiss. Now, let me go.” I struggled in his arms again. “I said a kiss – I want a real kiss, not a peck.” I groaned then leaned forward and kissed him hard. His lips parted instantly and kissed me back, hotly. His tongue traced the soft fullness of my lips. Then, he drew back his lips a little, then reclaimed my lips again hungrily. Oh my… His lips was warm and sweet on mine. He was kissing me with greed, as if I was a feast – totally like a starving man. His hands explored the soft lines of my back, my waist and my hips. Then he was kissing my chin… my jaw. His mouth travelled down to the hollow of my throat where my pulse beat frantically. Oh my God. The delicious strokes of his tongue made me shudder. I was breathing so hard. The pleasurable sensations he created inside my body was so overwhelming. I felt like my whole being would explode. My arms were clinging on him. My knees felt so weak. I knew I would fall if he’d let me go. “Eros….” I grabbed his hair gently with my hands. “Hmm…” He murmured and kissed my lips again – slowly, deeply and druggingly. One of his hand gently circled the outline of my breast. I gasped when Eros pulled the hem of my gown up and his hand skimmed my hips and thighs. “Jade… stop me. We… can’t…. do it here.” He said between kisses. His tongue licked the sensitive spot behind my ear. “Where?” I was so restless. I wanted him so badly at that moment. My mind and soul were transported to the other universe when I heard someone calling me. “Jade? Jade. Are you there? Sapphire and I are going home now.” My mom called out. “Maybe, she’s in the ladies room.” A familiar male voice said. It was Donovan. Oh God, my mom! I immediately pushed Eros so hard that I was off-balanced. “Careful Jade.” Eros said and immediately caught my arms. Thanks God. But I didn’t realize that it was just a temporaty bliss. Eros foot tripped over something and we were both off-balanced. Then together in each other’s arms, we fell in the pond.

Lol......Continue swimming in love.

Wow, u guys re gettin sumwhere already, jst take it one step @ a time.

Hmmm,continue d kiss in d pool,it ll be tantalizing

Wow, I just wanna hear I love you 4rm both of u ( jade and Eros)

I won't comment until u both confess ur love!

but u just did @ mary

Lolls @Tracy.

@Hady, its a notification not a comment. Lolls

Oya nao

U self U 2 lyk story @mray

U self, U 2 lyk story @mray

@SeniorG, u nko? Pot calling kettle black

Abeg no vex who B pot ? bcoz I no say I B kettle @ mray

Abeg no vex who B pot ? bcoz I no say I B kettle @mray

Chai !cee as dem dy dia dy kiss,me dy hia dy salivate!i nid sum pweety damsel 2 transport me bak 4rm mars!

@SeniorG, u b pot na. I b kettle!

Agree! but remember say sum pple dey use kettle dey cook;lyk me@mray

@seniorG. Yes. Sum ppl dey even use am eat. Like yu!!! Village boy.

@hady, 2yrs nd 16months

Pls continue nw,dis suspence is killing oooo

update dis towi na

bt y on earth r u doin dis? Its frustratin,turnin d page to a chat one....pls update d story nd stop d delay,its somhw annoyin

This is one of the most interesting yet annoying story i've ever read on coolval22.

Nxt pls

Lols @Hady. d story really worth waiting 4.

Chai! Chai! Oga shaxee. Dz story u r hiding, diarish god oooooo

Oga Shaxee, when are we going to end this story?

Chapter Forty (Unedited) -- Kindly put your playlist here-- Everytime I Look At The Stars I gazed in your eyes, Such a beautiful blue; My heart whispered to me, And that's right when I knew; The waves had ceased crashing, On the sand at our feet; Time had stopped passing, My search was complete; I finally discovered, What I'd known all along; A mystery uncovered, That just couldn't be wrong; It wasn't our first kiss, Nor the day that we met; But I realized something, I will never forget; With the stars shining brightly, From high up above; I'd one word to describe it, That word, is love. I knew then these feelings, For my sweetheart were true; The man of my dreams, And my soulmate, is you. I think of it every time, That I look at the stars; This memory is mine, But that moment was OURS. - Stephanie Lumley - Eros’ POV The rest of the night of our engagement party became more enjoyable for everyone. Donovan and Ruby heard Jade’s shrilled voice when we fell into the pond. They came immediately and found us with the koi fishes. Sapphire and Kobe also arrived. They were laughing at us but thought that falling in the pond was cool. We were surprised when they suddenly jumped into the pool with their clothes on. Some of the teenage guests joined the fun and also jumped into the pool. Then eventually, the party from the grand ballroom was transferred to the pool area. Almost everyone was getting wet at midnight – swimming, dancing, drinking, giggling and laughing. I took Jade home at midnight. I attempted to kiss her again before she went out of the car, but she evaded my kiss. “What’s wrong?” “Eros, please. Nobody’s watching us anymore.” “So?” The corner of her mouth twisted with exasperation. “You always forgot that we’re only pretending.” I reached for her hand which was lying on her lap, then I raised it to my lips, kissing her palm and made teasing bites on her forefinger. “I’m not pretending. Everytime I kissed you, touched you… I did it because I wanted to.” “I wonder why is that?” She pulled her hand away from me, then hugged herself. “Isn’t it obvious to you yet? I lo… like you.”

For Christ’s sake. I almost said LOVE. Dammit. I have to be careful in what I was saying. It seemed like I lost my sanity everytime I was with Jade. NO. I couldn’t be in love with her. Love didn’t exist in my vocabulary. “Like?” She asked. “YES. I like you. I always like you. Eversince we’ve met.” I put my arms around her shoulders, drawing her closer to me. She bit her lip to stifle a grin. “No. That is so hard to believe, Mr. Petrakis.” She removed my arm around her and moved away from me. I pulled my brows together and asked her. “Why?” “You have a weird way of showing it. Remember the day we’ve met? Outside the coffee shop?” “Of course. You were like an angel, that fell from Heaven. So fragile, delicate and lovely…” “Excuse me, you called me malnourish.” “I did?” “Yeah, you did. And you took advantage of me.” “I did? When?” My eyes widened. What the hell is she talking about? “When you asked me to work for you. Imagine waking up at three every morning so I could be in your place before five. I was scared of losing my job, because YOU said, you don’t tolerate late employees.” “OH, that.” I was thinking of different things. On bed with Jade, both naked and sweating. I was pushing myself so hard inside her and she was screaming with ecstasy. “Not only that, you shouted at me – calling me stupid, clumsy and other mean words. Remember when I accidentally broke that cup, you lied, saying that it was a rare ming dynasty chinese cup. You even threatened me to jail if I wouldn’t work for you again. My goodness… and you’re saying that you already liked me at that time? You’re unbelievable.” I felt guilty all of a sudden. I was ruthless to her and the thought made me flinched. “Shhh… okay, I admit, I was ruthless to you. I’m so sorry, sweetheart. It was the only way that I could think of, to fight the attraction I felt for you.” “Oh really, Eros. You really took advantage of me.” Great. I made her upset now. I just told her the truth, what I felt for her, and now, she was freaking out. I hated to admit it. But she was right. I took advantage of her. Until now – with the fake upcoming marriage. “That’s why I’m telling you what I feel for you. I like you and I want us to stop pretending anymore. Let’s make this engagement and our marriage real. I know you like me too, Jade. You wouldn’t kiss me like that if you don’t.” Her eyebrows rose in annoyance. “I was a bit drunk. That was the effect of alcohol. I could respond to any guy’s kisses at that state.”

“You’re lying again. You want me as much as I want you, sweetheart. Do you want me to remind you now how much you clung so tightly in my arms and begged for my kisses?” “Ugh! No thanks. You’re putting too much meaning on it, Mr. Petrakis. Maybe I was thinking of another man at that moment.” Shit! She really knew how to make me very furious and jealous. “Are you?” “I’m cold now. I have to go. Goodnight.” She grabbed the car door’s handle and it automatically clicked open. “Dammit, Jade. Answer me! Were you thinking of that doctor when you kissed me?” My fingers dug into the soft flesh of her arm. “Let me go. You’re hurting me.” “Then, answer me.” My jaw clenched and my lips were thinning with displeasure. “NO… no, of course not. I’m sorry, it was so wrong of me to say that.” I shook my head and removed my hand from her arm. “We really need to talk. I’ll call you later.” She just nodded and went out of my car. Jade’s POV Ding! Dong! “I’ll get it mom.” I shouted. I was on my way downstairs when I heard the loud ringing of the doorbell. It was a man from a flowershop, delivering a beautiful bouquet of pink roses. “For Miss Jade Collins, maam.” The delivery man said. “Thank you. I’m Jade Collins.” I signed the slip and took the bouquet. I smelled the roses. Hmmm… so freshly picked. I loved pink roses and it really brightened my day. My phone suddenly rang. I took the phone out of my denim shorts’ pocket to answer it. It was Eros. “I miss you.” He said. “Already?” I replied. “Yeah. And I miss your coffee.” “You want me to make you one now? I’ll be there in your office in…um, about twenty minutes.” I said, checking the time on my wristwatch. It was already one week since I stopped working with Eros, and staying here in the house, doing the household chores, everyday, studying my lessons in advance, surfing he internet - bored me to death. I missed being in the office… and being with Eros.

“I wish. But I’m not in the office right now.” “Ah… a business meeting.” “Yeah, in Philadelphia. I’ll probably won’t see you tonight.” “Ok, that’s fine.” “It’s not fine with me. I wish you were here. I really miss you. Terribly.” His voice was deep and sensual. “Do you miss me too?” “Um… yes. Of course.” Oh shocks, I admitted. I heard him chuckled. “You made me happy, sweetheart. We really need to talk. I want everything clear between us before we’ll get married.” “Sure. We can do it tomorrow night.” “Yeah, tomorrow night. I have to go, Jade. The investors are here.” “Okay. By the way, thanks for the flowers. How did you know I love pink roses?” “Flowers? Pink roses? I didn’t send you today.” Uh-oh… I immediately took the note attached on the bouquet. Oh my goodness, it was from Joseph. “Er… I’ll see you tomorrow. Bye.” I said in a hurry and put down the phone. I read Joseph’s note again. Ginger, I’m sorry. Looking forward in seeing you tonight. Love, Joseph That evening, I wore one of the dresses that Eros bought for me. He was the one who chose the dress when I modeled it for him. It was a short white dress that hugged my body perfectly. I matched it with my new pair of four-inch silver stilettos. I brushed my ginger-red hair until it shone, then I put on a light make-up on my face. I was putting on my contact lens when the doorbell rang. It must be Joseph now. I hurriedly applied a red lipstick on my lips and went out of my bedroom. Mom and Joseph were in the living room, talking. “Hi.” I greeted them. “Wow, you look so gorgeous, Ginger.” Joseph gave me a kiss on my cheek, then hugged me. “Thanks.” I replied. “Anyway thanks also for the roses, I love it.” I pointed at the pink roses now in the flower vase on top of the living room center table.

OOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHH! SHAXEE dat episode is too short,we've bin waiting all dis while.....pls post d next 1 ooooo

I don't know what this Joseph is looking for?

I jst cnt help bt smile wenever an reading dis story, dis couple (eros nd jade) re really something. Greak work shaxee, keep it up nd please dnt kip us waiting 4 long b4 u post a nw episode/chapter ooo.

“You’re welcome. I always remember how you love pink roses.” Joseph smiled, showing his dimples. I laughed at the thought, how I found it so devastatingly cute before. “I’ll leave you too. I have to change for dinner.” My mom said before she spun around and left us. It was so awkward at first, seeing Joseph again after the incident last night. I was so embarrassed of Eros’ behavior. Eros was acting so crazy, getting so jealous of Joseph. “I’m sorry about last night.” “It’s okay. I didn’t know that you have a very possessive fiance.” “I didn’t know either.” Joseph laughed and I laughed with him too. “But he is a nice guy, once you’ll get to know him.” “Well, I don’t have any intention of knowing him. He stole my girl away from me.” He smirked. “Joseph, please. I’m getting married.” “Yes, I know. BUT, I want you to know that I’ll be right here waiting for you whenever you change your mind.” “Joseph...” “I love you Ginger, with all my heart. This Petrakis guy will just break your heart. He was a despicable man. The way he shouted at you last night made me cringed. I can’t let you marry him. He will hurt you.” “Eros is not like that. He was just jealous when he saw us together.” He smiled and shook his head. “He’s bad for you, trust me. Open your eyes. That man is ruthless and evil. I read an article in the internet about him today. His employees and collegues even hated him.” “Joseph, please. I understand your concern, but I know Eros so well. He is not like that.” “I don’t trust him Ginger. He will not be a good husband to you. You will have a lot of competition. Girls wouldn’t stop chasing him for his looks and money. I know his kind. He will have mistresses all over the globe.” I couldn’t believe Joseph was saying these things about Eros. He used to be a kindhearted man and wouldn’t say anything bad against other people. “Joseph, I’m going to marry him. You can’t change my mind.” “Why? Are you sure you are in love with him? Or are you blinded with his looks, his lifestyle and money?” My temper flared immediately. Oh God, I was starting to dislike Joseph now. “How could you say that to me, Joseph.”

“I’m sorry, Jade.” He shook his head. “I know you’re not that kind of woman. You don’t like lavish and glamorous lifestyles. You just want simple things and enough money to provide for you and your family.” I was silent for a while. Joseph hit a nerve there. He was right. I was going to marry Eros because of the money. The money to secure my family’s future. Oh God, I felt like a real gold digger. “Do you love him?” I nodded. At least it was true. I loved Eros so badly and everyday, it intensified. “I thought you love me.” He stood up and smirked again. “I can give you what you want, Ginger. I can support you and your family. We can have enough for both of us. I’ll make you so happy. Just give me a chance to prove to you how much I love you.” “Joseph. Did you hear me? I said I love him. Nothing can change that. I’m marrying Eros in three weeks time. What I felt for you before… it was gone now. I… I realized that when I saw Eros last night looking so mad at us. The thought of him so angry made me upset and when he left, I was so worried. I wouldn’t forgive myself if something bad happened to him. I love him so much.” Joseph shook his head. Denying what I just said to him. He growled and said. “No, you don’t love him. God, I can’t accept this. It hurt as hell.” I saw tears falling on his cheeks. My goodness, he was crying. “Oh, Joseph, please don’t cry. I don’t want to hurt you. But, I have to tell you the truth.” I touched his arm, caressing it gently. In an instant, Joseph hugged me, then kissed my lips. “Joseph, no….” “I love you, Ginger. Please be mine.” His arms encircled my waist, drawing me closer to him. I pushed him away with all my might, but he was holding my waist so tightly. “Joseph, stop it.” “You love me, Ginger. Tell me you love me.” “Yes, I love you, but only as a friend… like an older brother. Let me go, Joseph or I’ll scream.” The doorbell rang loudly. Thanks God. Saved by the bell. Joseph released me and I scrambled immediately to the door and opened it. I was certain it was Sapphire because she was still in school for her cheerdance practice. But I was shocked when I opened the door. It was not Sapphire, but a man holding a bouquet of pink roses with a wine on his other hand. It was Eros.

Guys also read update in my blog https://glamourscenes.wordpress.com/2015/04/11/dear-diary-episode-18/

Eros please throw away gentility to the great beyond & place data Joseph where he belongs (in the hospital). He's just being a jerk & freaking annoying.He can't eat his cake & still expectsveto have it

Guys also read update in my blog https://glamourscenes.wordpress.com/2015/04/12/dear-diary-episode-19/

I just like d way u told him (Joseph) the truth, let him go & jump inside pit for all I care, Plss Eros push dat boy one side.

pls shaxee,post d nxt one na

shaxee. it seems as if dis story is been updated once in a week.

Chapter Forty One (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlist here— “If my love were an ocean, there would be no more land. If my love were a desert, you would see only sand. If my love were a star- late at night, only light. And if my love could grow wings, I’d be soaring in flight.” ––Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher Eros’ POV I was supposed to spend the night at Philadelphia, but I decided to cut the business negotiation short with the investors. I even declined attending the special dinner party they organized for me. Jade’s statement when I called her this morning really bothered me. Thanks for the flowers. How did you know I love pink roses? I didn’t send her flowers today. And pink roses? I didn’t even know that she loved pink roses. Dammit. There was only one person that I could think of, who sent her pink roses. The one who knew her, better than I do. The doctor. Jade’s statement kept on replaying in my head like a broken tape recorder. Joseph was never my boyfriend. I just had a big crush on him. But now, not anymore. He’s a good friend. I wondered how big her crush was on him? I shook my head and heaved a long sigh. I was not convinced with her statement. She just probably said it to ease my anger. The doctor was a fine looking man – blond. His appearance was often cast as the boy next door in Disney movies, or used in propagandas to allure girls. Girls would easily fall for his deceiving angelic features - including Jade. I was furious seeing them together last night. Looking so good and very comfortable in each other’s arms. I wanted to tear his limbs apart or gave him a taste of my kickboxing stunts. That doctor was a threat in my relationship with Jade. I have to delete him – erase him in her life. I asked Donovan to investigate about Dr. Joseph Nevin. To gather as much information about him. I found out that he was a long time neighbor of Jade’s family in New Jersey, almost ten years. He was so close to them, especially to Jade. When Joseph Nevin graduated college and passed his Nursing board exam, he went to Southern Africa to volunteer for a medical mission. A few months later, he studied medicine under a scholarship program in Canada and graduated with flying colors. Then, after he passed the Medical board exam, he worked in the school’s affiliated hospital, where he met Rosie, also known as Dr. Mary Rose Hotchkins, his fiancee. Yesterday was supposed to be their wedding day. Their family and friends where shocked when they suddenly broke up and cancelled the wedding.

I was in a hurry to sign all the business contracts and cut off all arguments about the deal, so I could flew back to New York and arrived at Jade’s place at seven. I decided to surprise her that evening. The moment my helicopter landed at the rooftop of Petrakis residential building, I immediately went to my room, took my clothes off and had a quick shower. Then I shaved my five o’clock stubble. It took me a while choosing what to wear. I scanned my wardrobe, opening all the closets. Formal. Semi- formal. Casual. Semi-casual. Rugged. I’d never been so confused or bothered on what to wear in my entire life. Usually, I just grabbed and wore whatever shirt I like in an instant. Thinking of pity things like that was a waste of time. But now, it was nearly five minutes already, and still, I was undecided what to wear. I wanted to please Jade. I wanted her to look at me as… what? Her prince charming? Knight in shining armor? Well, I didn’t know exactly. But I wanted her to like me. NO… Not just LIKE. It was a shallow word for what I wanted her to feel for me. I wanted her to feel so deeply for me, liked she couldn’t live without me anymore. I wanted her to see me as her man – someone who would be there for her forever and always, who would rescue her from all her troubles and worries and someone who wouldn’t leave her side, in good times and bad times. I wanted to be her present and future. Yeah, her future. I couldn’t bear the thought of living without Jade after a year – when the contract ended. The pain of losing her would shatter my heart completely. I liked everything about Jade and everyday, I just missed her. I counted every single minute and hours of the day, until I was with her again. True. I’ve never been crazy with a woman before – and with Jade, I couldn’t explain. My world seemed to revolve around her now. Every decision I made, I connected it with her. Even my plans for the future, I always associated it with her. Oh God, I was out of my mind… and the worse thing was, my feelings for her grew more and more every single day. It intensified. Last night, I nearly said I LOVE YOU to her. Dammit. I growled and paced the area inside my wardrobe, tightening the loosen towel around my hips. I felt dizzy and confused all of the sudden. Like I was hit by a canonball. Maybe I’m in love with Jade. I’ve never felt this kind of attraction to a woman - ever before. It’s like an obsession. It totally disrupted my life. Oh God, am I in love with Jade? I growled aloud and sat on a wooden stool. Realization hit me.

God…. Yes. I am definitely in love with Jade. I love her… I truly love her. Everything about her made me crazy – crazily in love with her and she was a distraction – a sweet distraction that I couldn’t live without anymore. I felt defeated… and tired of fighting my feelings for her anymore. It was about time. Time to surrender, concede and give up fighting – and denying. What was the used? I would just end up sufferring and being miserable all throughout my life. Tonight, I’m going to tell her what I truly feels for her. I love her – and if she doesn’t love me back, I won’t stop doing anything and giving her everything for her to learn to love me in return. I will wait, even forever if I have to. I won’t give up. I groaned and opened a closet again. Then finally, I decided to wear long sleeves button up light blue denim shirt and navy jeans. I rolled up my shirt sleeves just below my elbows and left the top button of my shirt open. At seven in the evening, I was outside Jade’s house. I was so excited to tell her that I loved her. But I was nervous as hell too. I was afraid that she would freak out or get upset. Well, I have to tell her tonight, no matter what her reaction would be. I have to get it out of my chest. Who knows, she feels the same way too. I will be the luckiest man in the whole universe if that would be the case. I just have to be optimistic about it. I brought her pink roses. She said it was her favorite and of course champagne. To celebrate our what? Love? Well, I really hope. I was not a sucker of love and romance. But it seemed like my perspective about it eventually changed when I met Jade. I started to appreciate heart shapes, flowers, candlelight dinners, poetry… even shakespeare. Oh God. I rang the doorbell and the door abruptly opened by Jade, who was out of breath. I wondered why she was panting. Her eyes dilated in shock, her face looked so pale and her red lipstick was smudge on her lips. What’s going on? “Surprise.” I smiled to her and gave her the bouquet of pink roses. “Oh! You’re here.” She coughed a little, then smiled back. “Thanks.” She took the bouquet and sniffed the flowers. “And of course, champagne.” “Champagne? Are we celebrating something.” “Yeah, sweetheart. We are.” I hugged Jade and kissed her cheek. “I missed you. Besides, we really need to talk.” “About what?” “Our future?” I teased her. She smiled and clung to me so tightly like she was afraid of letting me go. It made me feel wanted at that moment and LOVED. I couldn’t help being optimistic on the outcome of our talk later that evening.

I noticed a movement at the corner of my eye. Then I saw him. The same blond man I wanted to murder last night. The doctor. Joseph Nevin. “What the hell is he doing in here?” I asked Jade. I was trying so hard to calm my voice. I was burning with intense rage. Jade instantly moved out of my arms. “Mom invited Joseph last night for dinner. Just like old times’ sake. He was our neighbor in New Jersey and like a family to us.” She drew me towards the living room area, where the doctor was standing. He had a smirk on his face which I wanted to erase, by punching his face and ripping his throat. We were moving closer to him when I noticed his lips smeared with a lipstick - in red color. I looked at Jade’s lips then back to the doctor’s lips. Fucking shit! They were kissing before I came in! My temper skyrocketed. I was really furious with jealousy. He was just a neighbor and like a family, huh? Is she kidding me? For heaven’s sake, they were kissing! “Eros, I want you to meet Joseph… again. He was my childhood friend. Joseph, this is Eros, my fiance.” I nodded at him and he nodded back at me. “Ah… excuse me. I have to check the food in the kitchen first if its ready. Just make yourselves comfortable.” “Okay.” “Sure.” The doctor and I said simultaneously. Jade took the wine I brought and headed to the kitchen. The moment she left, I eyed the doctor furiously. “You kissed my girl.” The doctor smirked and licked the side of his lips, then nipped his lower lip. “Ya, delicious. I love strawberry.” Asshole! I wanted to knock him dead at that moment. “Stay away from her.” I gritted my teeth and clenched my fists. “I warn you. I could be your worse nightmare, if you crosses with me.” “Whoah, Mr. Hotshots. You don’t scare me. Jade is my girl.” “You’re asking for trouble, man. Running away from your fiancee and stealing mine.” I spat the words at him. “Isn’t it the other way around? I understand you are to marry a girl named Stella Valiente.” His eyes blazed angrily at me. “You have the wrong info. You should not listen to gossips and read trash in tabloids. I thought you’re smart. Tsk. Tsk. Idiotic doctor. I pity all your patients.” I grinned at him, making him angrier. He suddenly aimed a punch on my face. Dammit! I didn’t see it coming. The blow had me off balance that I fell on the couch. But I recovered immediately. My jaw hurt and I massaged it to ease the pain.

“You want a fight, huh? Not here. We can do it outside. Have some respect for Jade and her family.” I stood up and shoved him away from me. But he aimed another punch at me. This time, I caught his right fist with my left hand and immediately gave him an uppercut blow at his jaw. He fell on the floor. He wiped his lips with the back of his hand and exclaimed when he saw blood. “Shit!” Then slowly, he stood up staggering. He took the vase on top of the center table with the pink roses in it. “No man, don’t do that.” He was about to throw the vase at me when Jade suddenly appeared. “Hi, um… the food is ready. It’s time for dinner.” She said, smiling at us. Then she noticed the doctor holding the vase. She frowned and asked. “What are you doing with the vase?” “Ah… I’m just appreciating the roses and the vase. They’re beautiful.” Nevin coughed and returned the vase on top of the center table. I smirked and shook my head, making Nevin more furious. The doorbell rang and Jade’s sister, Sapphire, arrived together with my cousin, Kobe. “You’re seriously dating her?” I whispered at Kobe. “She’s just a kid.” “She’ll be eighteen in a month. Stop acting like a big daddy to her.” Kobe tapped my back. “Just don’t hurt her or make her cry.” “Relax, bro, you know me, I’m a good boy.” Kobe grinned at me. “Since when?” I gave him an odd look. “I’m serious. You’re going to deal with me if you mess up with her.” “I know what I’m doing, bro. I’m twenty, not ten years old. Okay?” Jade’s mother finally came down, wearing a red dress and high-heeled shoes. She looked different. More stunning and blooming. She was even wearing make-up. I wondered why? Then, I understood why. The doorbell rang again and the last guest finally arrived. It was Donovan.

Heheheh. The dinner table is already been completed ooo.....wow!!! thats cute...... Mr two fighter..weldone...

Why d fight nau, Joseph should just leave u Jade alone.

LolZzzzzzz......full house! I. Luv dat

Joseph should just leave Jade and Eros alone and go back to his fiance.

Joseph plz back off!

Nice 1 dere Eros.

Chapter Forty Two (Unedited) -Kindly put your playlists here- "No matter what has happened. No matter what you've done. No matter what you will do. I will always love you. I swear it." -- Defiance by C.J. Redwine Jade's POV "What happened to your lower lip? It's bleeding." I asked Joseph on our way to the dining table. His lower lip was swollen and there was even a tear on it. He dug a hankerchief from his pants' pocket and wiped his mouth. "I accidentally bit my lip when I sneezed." "Really?" I had a feeling that he was lying. "I hope you're okay." "I'm fine." He said and took my elbow. "Jade, I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me... I shouldn't have kissed you like that. It's just that I love you and I couldn't bear the thought of losing you." I was very upset of him when he kissed me, but my heart melted easily. He was a good friend, like a brother to me. He was always there when I needed him when we were young. I couldn't just hate him because of that kiss - and because he loved me. I looked around to check where Eros was. He was busy talking to his cousin, Kobe. I drew Joseph to the kitchen to have a little privacy. I needed to talk to him, to settle things between us. "Joseph, I want you to understand that I'm not the same girl who had a big crush on you. I grew up. What I felt for you before... it's gone. I love Eros now and I'm going to marry him." His eyes immediately blazed with anger. "I can't let you marry him. He's not the right guy for you. You're just blinded by his appearance... his lifestyle, power and money." He heaved a frustrated sigh and ran a hand through his hair. "Ginger, open your eyes. He is the encarnated Lucifer. Your life will be miserable with him." "Don't you ever talk about Eros like that!" I snapped at Joseph. I started to dislike him for saying bad things about Eros. I love Eros and hearing mean things about him hurt me too. "Eros is a good man. Why do you keep on saying that he's evil, and calling him Lucifer... you have no right to call him that. You don't know him." "I know him." He lashed out the words with gritted teeth. "NO, you don't." He laughed and nodded his head. "Of course I know him. He was the reason why you hid in the convent." "What?" I couldn't believe what I just heard, and coming from Joseph's mouth. "Don't deny it, Jade. I know your little secret." He smiled at me sarcastically. His face came nearer to mine. Then he said in a murmur voice. "But what really puzzled me is... why are you marrying the man you've been running away for years?" "You're talking nonsense, Joseph." "Am I?" He chuckled. "Did he know about your secret, honey? Well, I guess not." "Stop it. I don't know what you're talking about!" I was freaking out. The reminder of a bad memory really made my heart ripped into two. He was opening a wound deeply buried inside me. A memory that I learned and strived to forget. "Ginger, don't deny it. I know what really happened and I want to save you from making another mistake again. I'm here to help you make your past right." He held my arms and slightly shook me. "He was your mistake, for heaven's sake! You're messing with your life marrying that devil."

"Stop it. I don't want to hear any of these. Leave me alone!" I was so mad at him. I wanted him to stop talking - he really annoyed me now, interferring with my life. "This is my life. I don't need you to tell me what is right or what is wrong-you were not the one who suffered from a bad experience. You were not the one who failed and disappointed my loved ones... you have no right... " "Ginger, honey, I just want to help you." "No, you're not helping me at all. You made things... complicated. Coming back into my life when things started to become right - and saying you love me... that's too much! Where were you when I needed you? Didn't it make you evil too? For suddenly disappearing in my life when I needed you?" He groaned and put his hands on his pants pocket. "That's why I'm here, I'm back for good - to amend my mistake of leaving you. We belong together, Ginger. Just give me a chance to show you how much I love you. You will learn to love me back. Remember the good times we had together? You can't just erase that. We were so happy." "I'm... I'm starting to have a headache." I rubbed my temple, feeling so confused. "Think about what I've said. About us." He almost whispered then he reached out and touched my hair. "Is everything okay?" Joseph and I jolted when we heard Eros voice. We immediately looked at him. He was standing at the doorway of the kitchen. He was frowning. I knew from the expression of his face that he didn't like what he saw. I wondered how long he was standing there - how much of my conversation with Joseph did he hear? "Yeah... " I moved away from Joseph and went closer to Eros. He held his arm up and I went directly into it. He hugged me so tightly and kissed my forehead. "They're waiting." He said and led me out of the kitchen. I was seated in the dining table between Eros and Joseph. Eros was acting like a real fiance. He asked me what I wanted to eat among the dishes and put food on my plate first before his. He even peeled off the skin of the prawns for me to eat and sliced my steak into small pieces. Then filled my flute with champagne. I was not fond of people invading my plate, but with Eros... It was like a natural thing to do. It was like sharing food, discovering our taste, our likes and dislikes and ourselves. He was putting food on my plate which I enjoyed eating, then I removed the garlics off my plate and transferred it to his. He knew I hated the taste of garlic - so ironic since he loved garlic so much. We even shared a dessert. I was feeding him with my chocolate almond ice cream. "Next time, we'll set only one plate for both of you." My mom joked. Kobe and Sapphire dominated the conversation during dinner. They were talking about the book series that turned into a movie, The Maze Runner. "I finished reading the four books..... there was a scene where I cried so much... when he said kill me... and Thomas had no choice but to shoot him in the head... Teresa also got... " "Shhh... stop it. You're a spoiler!" Kobe exclaimed. We all laughed at them. Then, Joseph talked about his volunteer work in a medical mission in Southern Africa. How he got the scholarship program to study medicine in Canada. Although I as still upset of him, I couldn't help but being impressed by his perseverance to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor. "How did you meet Rosie?" Sapphire asked insensitively.

Joseph flinced, taken aback by Sapphire's question. "Who's Rosie?" Kobe asked. "Joseph's ex-fiancee. They broke up a few days before the wedding. And to think that it should be last Saturday." "Ugh, that's horrible." Kobe snorted. "Yeah, come on Joseph, tell us about Rosie." Sapphire insisted. I wanted to kick her feet under the table but I couldn't reach her. I gave her a warning look but it seemed like she didn't understand my message. "Sapphire, it's not nice to ask Joseph about that. He just broke up with Rosie, and he was still hurt about it..." My mom said, noticing Joseph's discomfort too. "It's okay, Mrs. Collins. It's fine." Joseph answered. "Actually, I met Rosie in the hospital. We worked together attending a cancer patient, and in the process, we got to know each other well. That's how it started." He looked at me and then he coughed. He was profusely sweating now. Everyone was listening to him eagerly. "I was attracted to her because she was pretty and smart. She had long ginger-red hair, green eyes, tall and slim. Her physical features reminded me of Jade." Eros suddenly coughed and asked for water. I rubbed his back and asked him. "Are you okay?" "Yeah, yeah. I'm fine." Joseph continued his story. "Rosie was highly educated, very articulate and intelligent - a very strong woman. She headed a campaign on women and child abuse in Canada, joined activities in fighting against breast cancer, did educational talks and awareness programs in different schools/institutions about varied issues, like child trafficking, sex education, women's rights, family planning and others." "Wow, very impressive." Sapphire said. "She's a female version of you, Joseph." "Ya, that's what our collegues said." "Hmm... You have the same profession, same advocation in life, hard working and very compassionate with people. In other words, very compatible - a good match. But how come you broke up?" "Sapphire!" I snapped at my sister. She was so insensitive sometimes. "That's something that you shouldn't ask." Mom scolded Sapphire. "I'm sorry, Joseph." Sapphire said. "It's okay. Don't worry about it. It's nice to get it out of my chest through." Then, Donovan admitted about his interest to know my mom better and how serious he was with his intention. He even asked for our permission to let him visit my mom and take her out for a date. Of course, Sapphire and I agreed. We were so happy for them. It had been four years since dad died, and it was time for my mom to move on too and find happiness with another man. I knew, Donovan was the right man for her. He was caring, loving and loyal. He was a good guy. We continued our conversation in the living room afterwards. Most of the time, Eros was silent. We were seated in the couch with his arms around me. He was running his fingers up and down in my arm. Sending shivers down my spine. Then he laced his fingers through mine and rubbing his palm on mine. The rhythm was slow and gentle, a sweet torment that made my hormones crazy. I looked at him and he looked back at me - the desire was very visible in his eyes, so strong and potent. I shifted on my seat and moved closer to him. I wrapped my arms around his waist and settled my head on his chest. I was bothered by his wallet pressing the side of my stomach. It made me feel uncomfortable. I couldn't help but TOUCH it. Eros jerked up. He suddenly looked at me with wide eyes. "Eros, can you transfer your wallet to the other side? It's pressing my stomach." I whispered and continued rubbing his wallet. He let out a soft growl and hissed. "Believe me sweetheart, it's not my wallet your rubbing." I was confused for a moment. I didn't understand what he meant. Then realization hit me. "Oh my God."

Hahahahahahahah. Eros-jnr has turn to wallet......oh my Gawd...! Interesting. Funny.

jade don soji

Hmmmm wallet indeed, dat one na senior wallet ooo

Lovely

Wallet indeed! Jade u funny die ooooooooooo! Haven't u known dat ur relationship with Eros has experienced a paradigm change from the contratual marriage to a real relationship else hw can u explain do imaginary wallet discomforting u

Hmmmmmm!wallet indid

wallet ko.... Wallet ni..... Lovin ds

Wallet?

humm,nxt plz

What the hell is wrong with you joseph?

I bet Jade almost peed on her pnts when she realised d@ she wasn't rubbin his wallet bt his hmmmm, d word sef dey give mhe muscle pull 4 hand 2 write.

Hahahahahahhahahaha Eros wit wallet di*ck! Joesph just accept defeat like oga jonathan nd move. Dy way am seeing tins,i dnt tink u will get jade bk. ShaxEE ride on bro.......

LMAO.........jade is so naive!

Where z Shaxee na,abeg continue this story o

i hate d waiting part,u av to wait all d time...its annoying

Yea ooo @tabitha

shaxee upload nau, u just making d story boring

Chapter Forty Three (Unedited) -Kindly put your playlists here- "I'm thinking of you, that's all I do, all the time. You're always the first and the last thing on this heart of mine. No matter where I go, or what I do, I'm thinking of you." ― Dierks Bentley Eros' POV I need a shower - a very cold shower to lower down the temperature of my body. I looked at my hardened shaft. Dammit, I have to get out of here - to save myself from embarrassment. I cursed myself, my testosterones and my dick, for being so responsive of Jade's touch, for losing control easily. All the nerves in my body was crying for excitement and release... protesting wildly. I couldn't believe Jade touched my dick, and rubbing it. She thought it was my wallet, for Christ's sake. She was so naive. Yeah, the feel of her hands rubbing my... oh God, it was so good... that I almost exploded. My shaft still tingled from her touch that my body kept on shivering. I excused myself and went to the bathroom. I stayed there for a while, trying to ease my chaotic nerves - I paced the room, did fifty push ups, washed my face and gargled my mouth with listerine. I can do this. I have to do this. Tonight. It's now or NEVER. I inhaled deeply, gathering all my strength and courage to face Jade again and tell her what I truly felt for her. I already constructed the words that I wanted say to her in my mind. I even memorized it again and again. I went out of the bathroom and headed to the living room. To my surprise, Joseph Nevin took my place in the couch, sitting beside Jade. They seemed so engrossed talking to each other that Jade didn't notice that I was back. I got jealous and furious easily. I wanted to grab the man's shirt and throw him out of the window. I wished I could do that, but knowing Jade would hate me afterwards, I tried to control myself. "Jade." I extended my hand for her to come to me but she shook her head and signalled for me to wait. I was disappointed, hurt and extremely jealous. Nevin smirked at me and returned his attention to Jade. He even provoked me by holding Jade's hand between his two hands. I clenched and unclenched my fists. My teeth gritted. My mind was in riot, thinking of a hundred ways to kill a man. How I wished I could crush the asshole and removed the smirk off his face. I moved farther away from the living room but still continued glancing at Jade and Nevin. Checking how farther the jerk's hand went on touching Jade. Kobe tapped my shoulder. "You look like you're about to murder someone. Need any help?" Then he laughed. "You've better watch out. I'm sure that doctor has a thing for Jade." I puckered my brows, fully annoyed. I shoved my hands inside my pant's pockets and faced Kobe. "I'm going now. I have an early flight tomorrow to Greece, but I'll be back next week." "Okay. Just send my regards to Aunt Elisa." I replied, then glanced at Jade again. "Sure." Kobe laughed. "If you need help in disposing the guy, just give me a ring. We can easily throw him in the middle of pacific ocean. That would be fun."

I laughed with him and tapped his back. "You're crazy. That's not a funny joke." "I just want to make you laugh. You looked so tense man." I growled frustratingly. "She's making me lost my sanity." "That's what love does to people. I can see that you love her so much. I'm happy for you man. Finally you believe in love." I nodded and raked a hand through my hair. "Have to go. I'll see you next week man." Kobe said before he spun around and left. ** It was nearly midnight when I was alone with Jade in the living room, sitting on the couch. Donovan and the doctor already left. Jade's mother already retired for the night, as well as Sapphire. "What is it that you wanted to talk about?" Jade said and bent down to unclasp the strap of her silver stilettos off her feet. "Hope you don't mind, my feet hurts." "About us." I said, then immediately knelt down in front of her and held one of her ankles. "Let me." "It's okay. I can manage." "Please." My voice sounded like pleading, but who cares. Jade looked at me and nodded. I unclasped the straps of her stilettos and removed the pair off her feet. I sat down next to her and pulled her feet up on my lap. "I'll give you a massage." "No... no." She protested. "This is embarrassing." "Embarrassing? I will be your husband, Jade. In three weeks time. You have nothing to be embarrass about." I started giving her a massage. From her ankle to her toes. Damn, she had a beautiful pair of legs and nice manicured feet. Her skin was so soft and smooth like silk. "There you go again, forgetting that this is just a fake marriage." She moaned with pleasure and sprung her body on the couch. She leaned her head and back against the throw pillows. "That feels soooo good... uhm... don't stop... there.. there... ohhhhh Goooodddd." She held her arms up above her head and twisted her body sensuously like a kitten. She looked so desirable, sensual and passionate... damn! My body responded immediately to her, making my testosterones wild and made the center of my male anatomy grew rock-hard again. I groaned, controlling the urge to pull her roughly in my arms and make love to her fast and hard - like a stone-age man. "I'm sleepy..." She murmured. "NO... no, Jade. We need to talk first." I slowly pulled her up. "Can we do it tomorrow? It's almost midnight." She looked so droggy already. "I have to tell you something. I have to let you know and get this off my chest." I took her hands and held it tightly. She sat properly and focused her eyes on mine - obviously trying to wake up. My brain froze and I just stared at her eyes intensely. I tried to remember the words I memorized a few hours ago - the words I constructed meticulously to say to her, in declaring my love and devotion... how I cherished her and so on... but now, it was all gone. I couldn't remember a thing. I was mentally blocked. Dammit, I've never experienced this before. "What is it, Eros?" "I.... I...." "You what?" She asked. Her eyebrows rose questioningly. "I... wovou."

"What?" I was sweating profusely now. My hands were shaking... that I clasped Jade's hands so tightly. "Are you okay?" She said and tried to loosen my hands a bit. I nodded and tried to say the words to her again. "I... lurrrreee vou." "What are you trying to say? I don't understand." She stood up and removed her hands away from mine. "It's midnight already. Time for you to go, Eros. You still have to wake up early." Dammit, why can't I say the words to her? I don't understand why it's so hard for me. "Jade, please. Listen to me. I have to tell you this. Now." "I'm listening, what is it?" I took my phone from my pant's pocket, desperately, and wrote the words I longed to tell her. Then, I handed my phone to her. She read the words and looked at me. She was fully awake now. "You love me?" She asked disbelievingly. I nodded and smiled at her. "Yes. Truly, deeply and madly." QUOTE Love's a game that everyone wants to play They will risk their heart for someone to break I care so please listen to what I'll say "Save yourself before your heart starts to ache" Love sometimes can be inspirational Until you hope for things to get too high Stop yourself from being delusional For you will see things as clear as the sky When the world doesn't feel right anymore You can go back to the path that you chose But as you reach the end there was a door That unlocks to a world that's full of rose I'll tell you something as you stare above No one can decide the meaning of love WHATSAPP NUMBER 2349021151077

Hmmmm,lovely,dnt say it has end lyk dis @shaxee

Seems you are using style to tell us its the end or better still almost at the end....... So much Interesting..

hmm,at last,pls nxt

Hmmm,Eros,na ego go kill u oo,so u cant profess ur luv 2 her wt ur mouth,u'r usin ur phone,lwkmd!!

pls don't end it like dis oh

Ehen.........END?????? I dnt tink so..

We Are Waiting Oh

Please What Is Delayin You

Too, many messages on whatsapp, just gotta do this for you guys. Enjoy[hr] Chapter Forty Four (Unedited) -Kindly put your playlists here- "Love is a total giving of oneself to another"[hr] Jade's POV He loves me? I just continued staring at Eros. I didn't know if I was dreaming or imagining things. It was almost midnight and my head started to throb. I even wondered if I read the text in his phone right or everything was just a pigment of my imagination. "Jade, stop torturing me. Say something." Eros' voice was deep and sensual, sending butterfiles in my tummy. Slowly, he came so close and held my eyes. His hand reached out and touched my cheek in a tantalising caress, making my body shivered with excitement. My eyes went down and focused at the top button of his blue shirt. I instantly had an urge of opening it and explore his hard chest with my hands. I wondered how he would react if I planted a kiss at the base of his beautiful neck? A lurch of excitement was building within me. I bit my lower lip to control myself from doing such thing. "I love you so much, Jade. I'm sorry. I... I got so nervous that my tongue twisted. I... I've never said this to a woman before." He held my face, made me look at his eyes again. "Jade, did you hear me?" My brain got fuzzy... I couldn't think straight. I had mixed emotions. I was overwhelmed with happiness, but, there were fear and guilt too. I moved a step backward and about to turn when Eros caught my waist before I could move farther away. My back was pressed on his chest and his arms were around my waist. His face was against the hollow of my neck that I could feel his uneven breathing on my cheek as he held me close. I was instantly electrified. Delicious sensation ran all throughout my nerve endings. "Eros..." "Jade... You don't have to answer me now if you don't want to. I'm not pressuring you. I just wanted to get this out of my chest - to tell you how much I love you." He whispered and softly kissed the sensitive area behind my neck. The sound of his voice affected me deeply. "Eros... you can't love me... not now..." My hands touched his arms, which were around my waist. "It's too late, sweetheart. I already do and I want to stay so in love with you, now and always." "But there's something that you should know." "Then we will talk about it - we can settle everything and start again." "Eros... I'm afraid that you'll hate me when you'll find out..." "No, Jade, I could never hate you... my love for you is so big... nothing in this world could make me hate you, sweetheart." "Promise?" "Yeah. Promise." That made me sigh with relief. I couldn't bear it anymore. I twisted and turned my body towards him. I ran my hands up, from his chest to his neck and clung to him. Standing on tiptoe, I initiated the kiss at the side of his lips. He immediately reacted and held my head with his hand. He angled his mouth and gave me a sweet, tantalising kiss. He showered kisses around my lips and along my jaw before he smothered my lips with demanding mastery.

I quivered. My feet seemed to be drifting along on a cloud. He smelled so good, like a combination of leather, musk and spice - purely masculine, powerful and clean. He tasted so heavenly - sweet... bitter... sweet... I couldn't really describe. His lips were warm and moist and his tongue - so strong and wet that traced the soft fullness of my lips and explored the recesses of my mouth. His hands ran possessively to the soft lines of my back, my waist and my hips - like he was afraid that I would vanished. Instinctively, my body arched closer towards him and I caressed the strong tendons in the back of his neck. He kissed me passionately, deeply and hungrily like there was no tomorrow - taking my breathe away. My heart lurched again and again and my knees buckled that I clung on him. "I... love... you." I said between parted lips. Suddenly I felt him stiffened and stopped kissing me. "What did you say?" Eros asked me. His eyes never leaving mine. I looked back at him, then bit my lower lip. My mouth was burning with fire in the aftermath of our kiss. "I... um..." I stammered. My face immediately felt hot. I knew I was blushing. "You said you love me. Tell me again, sweetheart. Make me the happiest man alive." He held my face with his hands. His thumb caressing my cheek. I nodded and hugged him so tightly. "Oh Jade, I love you so much." "I love you too, Eros. So much that it hurts." Tears immediately welled up in my eyes. I didn't know what I feel at that moment. I was overwhelmed with happiness that he loved me, but I was so scared too. What if...? "Sweetheart, you made me so happy." He kissed me so hard and swooped me off my feet. Then he sat on the couch and brought me on his lap. He started kissing me again - my cheek, my lips and my neck. "Shh... don't cry, my love." He wiped the tears off my cheeks with his hand. "I don't want to see you cry. I feel sad whenever you're sad too." "I'm just... um... happy." "You don't know how happy I am right now, sweetheart. Knowing that you love me too, made me feel complete - you complete me, Jade." His lips curved in a smile and his eyes turned heavy. "Oh Eros, That's what I feel towards you too." I touched his lower lip with my thumb, feeling his lips. He playfully bit my thumb then kissed it well. "Even with my, not so good behaviour, sometimes?" "Yeah. I love everything about you Eros. Your being a half human and half beast sometimes... that made you all man to me." "Half human, half beast? Should I be flattered?" He chuckled. His hands were caressing my waist. "I'm glad that you accept me as I am. Yes, I have lots of faults and I know that it annoys you... sometimes. I'm not a perfect man but I will try to be one, for you, my love." He kissed me again deeply and hungrily, then laid me on the couch. His lips seared a path down my neck and my shoulders. "Eros, when did you start loving me?" I raked his hair with my hands. "I don't exactly know when, but I think it started the moment I saw you." He was lying on the couch with me now. My head pillowed his right arm. "Outside the coffee shop?" "Yeah. When I met you, BOOM! I was instantly drawn into you, like I was hit by a tornado. Everything in you amazes me. Your beauty, uniqueness and strong personality. Even these beautiful emerald eyes of yours that kept on flashing at me angrily... damn, I instantly got lost staring at it. I love you so much, Jade."

"Hmm... and you have a funny way of showing it too. You tormented me on reporting to work at dawn - and remember the times you asked me to make your coffee before midnight? You made me suffer." "I'm so sorry, sweetheart. I was a... stupid beast for doing that. I tried to deny my feelings for you, convincing myself that it was your coffee only that I loved - but I couldn't fight it anymore. My love for you grew stronger every single day. My life was disrupted always thinking of you. I couldn't function well, couldn't think well, and even couldn't breath. I need you in my life Jade, so badly. I'm lost without you now." "Oh, Eros... I feel the same way." I snuggled in his arms, hugging him so tightly. "Really?" "Of course." He sighed and swifted position on the couch. A hurt was visible on his face. "What about Joseph Nevin? Do you love him?" I got confused all of the sudden. Joseph? "Yes. But as a brother... a friend." "Are you sure?" "Absolutely sure." I replied. "Are you jealous of Joseph?" He frowned and looked so annoyed. "Eros, you don't have to be jealous of Joseph. I love you. Only you." My fingers raked his hair, playing it with my fingers. I loved the feel of his hair, so thick and smooth. "You love me for my good side and bad side, right?" "Of course." He nodded and squeezed my hip. "What if I did something... bad... in the past. Will you forgive me?" "Hmm... the past is past. What is important is now." "Oh Jade... baby, sweetheart...I love you so much." He kissed me again and ran his hand from my leg to my thigh. "You won't get mad if I'll tell you something, right?" "About what?" "About this house." "What about this house?" He looked at me and smiled boyishly. He sat down on the couch and put my legs on his lap. "Your mom actually didn't win this house. I bought it to save you from commuting to work everyday. It really helped, right?" I was really stunned. It took me awhile to grasp what he'd just said. What?He bought this house for me? I thought... oh God... I smiled back at him sarcastically then kicked his stomach forcefully with my feet that he was caught off guard and landed down on the floor. "Ouch... sweetie, that hurts!" "Hmph! Serves you right. I hate you Mr. Petrakis. Goodnight!" I stood up and went to the main door, but he caught my ankle and pulled me down on the floor with him. Then, he was on top of me, pinning me with his body. "Get off me, you bastard." I wiggled and struggled to get free from him. "No. You stay there until you calm down, you hot- tempered wildcat." "How dare you bought this house. You made us believe that mom won this is in a raffle draw." "I don't have a choice. I knew you wouldn't accept this house if I just offered it to you in a silver platter." "Get off me, rich boy. I hate you." "Don't call me rich boy. I don't like it." "Huh, you called me hot-tempered wildcat first." "Sweetheart, that's what you are. A beautiful gorgeous hot tempered wildcat that made me insanely in love with you." "Ugh... get off me... you're so heavy." I pushed him so hard, but he was so strong, that I immediately gave up struggling. "Okay, I'm sorry. I made a mistake. Please, forgive me Jade... I love you and I wanted you to live a comfortable life." "Do you have a habit of buying houses for your lovers?" "NO! Of course not. This is the first time that I bought a house for a girl... I mean, for you. And you're not even my lover." "You wish." "But we can remedy that." He grinned and gave me a malicious stare. "OH! I hate you." "No, you don't sweetheart." "Hmp." "What will I do to make you forgive me... perhaps, a convertible mercedes benz..." "HA! And made my mom believe that she won it in a supermarket again?" "Yeah, that's a good idea, sweetheart." He kissed my cheek and seared a path down to my neck. My body tingled with his kisses. I stopped struggling and pulled his hair lightly. "You can't buy love, Eros. No amount of money could buy it." "I know. I'm just kidding, sweetheart. Let's go to my house then. I promise, I'll make you pancake with whipped cream and strawberry syrup tomorrow morning." He was kissing my neck earnestly now. His breathing turned ragged. "I don't think that's a good idea." Eros and I froze. We immediately scrambled up from the floor hearing my mom's voice.

Wooooow!!!!!!! See dis couple want to kill der self wit shyness b4. I pray jade's mom shld nt get mad at Eros.

Lol...... Ah deh jealous oo...

Oh! its such a good feeling to see this two love birds confessing their feelings to each other.

Hmmmmm at last, next plsszzz

E don tey ooo

Feel lyk it should nw stop dere nw,pls dnt let it long bf u update again

NEXT! NEXT!! NEXT!!!

Chapter Forty Five (Unedited) -Kindly put your playlists here- "You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams." ― Dr. Seuss Eros' POV I felt like a bad wolf who hunted a delicate prey when Jade's mother caught us on the floor. She probably thought that we were making passionate love in her living room - and on the floor. But I was not even slightly embarrassed. Why should I? Jade is my girlfriend, my fiancee, my woman and very soon - my beloved wife and mother of our children. I love her and she loves me. That's what really matters to me - to us. Yes! Jade loves me. I still couldn't believe that a very amazing woman like her loved a brute like me. I wanted to shout to the whole world to let everyone knew that she was my girl and I was her man - that we were so much in love. "OH! Mom." Jade fixed her hair and dress with clumsy hands. "Jade, show Eros your room. Just, not here in the living room and on the floor, ok?" Mrs. Collins was looking at us with teasing eyes. "Ah... um..." Jade stammered. "I'm sorry... " I said and was about to explain my caveman tactics towards her daughter when she cut off my statement. "No... don't be sorry, Eros. I also experienced being so much in love." "Thank you, Mrs. Collins." Was all I could ever say. "You're welcome. And I would appreciate it if you'll start calling me mom now. Very soon, you will be a family and my son in-law." I smiled and gave her a brief motherly hug. "Thank you for accepting me in your family, Mrs... I mean... mom. I promise you, I will take good care of Jade and her family, I mean, our family." "Thank you. I will leave you two, now." She turned and headed upstairs. "Goodnight, mom." Jade said and came into my arms. I hugged her so tightly and kissed her forehead. "By the way, Eros." Jade's mom stopped and looked at me. "Thanks for the house." Oh man, she heard us. ___ "You heard your mom, let's go to your room." I whispered on Jade's ear, as soon as we were alone again. "In your dreams."

"You're right, it's always in my dreams - you and me... on bed... naked and... making wild passionate love." "Eros... let's just wait." "I can't wait." I groaned, kissing her lips and seared a path down to her neck and the sensitive area below her ear. I bit her earlobe playfully, exerting a slight pressure that made her moaned with pleasure. "It's only three weeks before the wedding." She whispered. "Three weeks is eternity, my love. Let me make love to you now." "Shh... will you keep your voice down." She whispered and clamped my mouth with her small hand. "You have to go now. Remember, it's Tuesday tomorrow. Your kickboxing friends will be coming over, early morning." I held her hand and kissed her palm... then her wrist. "Nah... they will understand. You are my priority now." My mouth covered hers, giving her a slow drugging kiss. "Let's go to your room, baby. Your mom will come down again and..." "NO. I know and you know what will happen if we go to my room." "Then, let it happen." "Eros... will you stop. I said no." "Okay, fine. Whatever you say, my love." I replied and dragged her to the kitchen. "Why are we going to the kitchen?" "So I could kiss you properly, before I'll go. We need a little privacy, sweetheart." "In the kitchen?" "Your choice. In the kitchen or in the bathroom?" "Oh God, Eros. You are a bad bad boy." "Yeah, I am. And accept it, baby, you love me for what I am." I pulled her roughly in my arms, almost violently then covered her mouth, kissing her hungrily. I felt her soft breasts crushed against the hardness of my chest. I parted her lips open with my thrusting tongue - tasting her sweetness, like a divine ecstasy. She was so responsive and succumbed to the forceful domination of my lips. "I love you so much, Jade." I said between kisses and planted tantalising kisses in the hollow of her neck. She drew my face to hers in a renewed embrace. "I love you too, Eros." She smiled and kissed my lips. She put her arms around my neck, tightening her hold. My hands explored the soft lines of her back, her waist and her hips - while she caressed my chest and ran her hands to the length of my back. We stayed like that for a while... kissing, caressing and whispering sweet words to each other.

Just as the clock stroke at midnight, I left Jade's house. The following day*** "Slowly, baby... good girl. Now, switch gear." "Like this?" Jade asked, driving her new convertible Mercedes Benz. "Yes, honey. You're doing great. I'm so proud of you." I kissed her cheek and squeezed her thigh. She instantly stomped the accelerator so hard that the car moved so fast. "Shit, slow down!" I shouted at her. "I can't!" She yelled back at me. "Dammit! Step on the brake. Fuck! I said step on the brake!" I pulled the handbrake and the car stopped - abruptly before we hit a tree. "What is wrong with you? Why didn't you step on the brake? That is so stupid!" Jade's eyes looked so murderous. "So, you're calling me stupid now, hmp. I told you I don't want to learn how to drive! This scares the hell out of me. But you insisted! Buying me this car and teaching me how to drive. You know what, you are still the same... overlord, controlling, manipulative jerk." Oh God... I made her so upset now. What the hell? I forgot... I shouted at her. I panicked. Oh God, she gave me a fright. "Baby, I'm sorry... shh... shh... I love you, honey... of course you're not stupid. I was referring to the car." I kissed her lips to silent her. "Really? You're making excuses again, rich boy." "Jade." I glared at her. She knew I hated it when she called me rich boy. And she enjoyed teasing me. "And don't touch my... thigh..." She said looking down. "What do you expect! I lost my concentration. You almost touch my... ugh!" "OH!" I chuckled. "Really?" She nodded and rolled her eyes. Okay. So it was my fault. -- I took Jade to dinner almost every night in fancy restaurants in New York. Sometimes we ate in Mcdonalds or dim sum restaurants. We even watched a tearjecker movie, Faults In Our Stars, from her favorite book author, John Green. I just cuddled her and kissed her inside the movie house. I enjoyed being with her and seeing her happy made me happy too.

I love Jade, and everything about her. Yes, she's the most beautiful girl I've ever seen... in my whole life... and also so amazing. She totally, absolutely and definitely completes me. I also took her to a UFC fight. She was obviously not enjoying it. She squirmed on her seat when the fight became so brutal and bloody. We didn't finish it and immediately - I took her to an amusement park - where we rode a carousel and a ferris wheel - we bought cotton candy, popcorn and corn dogs. We had a good time. She laughed more often and shared jokes with me. That night, Jade showed me her room. It was very simple and feminine room. The color lilac, pink and white dominated the room. She had a floral curtain and pictures of roses and quotes on the walls. On top of her bedside table was an alarm clock and an espresso cup - a replica of mine, the one she gave me last christmas, but in chocolate brown color. "You have the same cup." "Yeah. It's a reminder." "A reminder? Of what?" I laid down on her bed and smelled her bedsheets and her pillows. The smell of Jade lingered on it and in my nose. I felt like I was transported to heaven. She smelled so good-so cool, fresh and jasmin flower. "Hmm... a lot of things... about you, of course." She replied. I chuckled, enjoying the feel of her bed, the ambience of her room and the heavenly smell of Jade. It felt so good like coming home - yeah, for me, she was home. She was sitting on a chair infront of her vanity table, looking at a mirror, then removing her contact lens. "Jade, my aunt Claudia had a laser eye surgery two years ago. If you like, we can set an appointment with the surgeon and inquire about it. Of course, it would be your decision... I'm just suggesting, baby." "Yeah, I think I'll do that. Maybe, after the wedding?" "No way, my love... definitely, after the honeymoon." I gave her a teasing smile. "Come here." I said and patted the bed. "Eros, we only have three days before the wedding." "You have a very dirty mind, my love. I just want to kiss you." I smiled and enjoyed seeing her blush. --- Exclusive Interview with Eros Petrakis ---- Tell me about yourself, Mr. Petrakis? - [Frowning] What is this? An interview for a job or for a newspaper? What is your favorite Color? - Black, blue and white What is your biggest secret? - Seriously? Do you think I will answer that? What were your first thoughts when you saw Jade Collins? - I thought this is a wholesome publication. Do you want me to answer truthfully? What do you love most about Jade Collins? - Everything. She completes me. What present would you put beneath the Christmas tree for Jade? - Keys. For a new car... and a new house - our new house. In your opinion, what is Jade's best body part? - [Groaning] Are you sure this is not for Playboy's magazine? What is Jade's worst habit? - [Smiling] Twisting her fingers. I find it so cute. What dress do you prefer for Jade to wear in a date? - [Wicked grin] I have a feeling that this is not for a newspaper. Are you excited for you upcoming wedding? - [Smiling] Very excited. I can't wait. Who is your favorite Superhero? - Hmm... Iron man. A lot of my friends said that I'm like Tony Stark. What is your favorite movie? - Lord of the Rings. I've read the book series and watched the movies. What is the baddest thing you did in school? - I don't know... got into fights? What is your worst habit? - Don't you have better questions to ask? I have a company to run, you are wasting my time. What can you say about Joseph Nevin? - [Frowning] The guy is irrelevant. Don't mention his name again or I'll walk out.

Nyc one

Lol....... Does all his answer accurate with all the question?.....they ask question, he is using some trick to avoid the question..

Rili love dz story,its very interesting,pls continue d story d suspense is killin.

See a s He d̶̲̥̅̊ε̲̣̣̣̥γ avoid dose qstns

Oya continue...

N E X T

DAT is d LST line of 46

dis story is a BOMB!!!!!!......wen I no till I see d next line am going 2 b tinking of dis in mi dreams

can't believe after all d lies....DAT de Neva met....d even sexed nd had a child wen deer 1st met in DAT bar

Masterbill pls u r gettin us confuse

Chapter Forty Six (Unedited) -Kindly put your playlists here- "No matter what has happened. No matter what you've done. No matter what you will do. I will always love you. I swear it." -- Defiance by C.J. Redwine Jade's POV "I'm sorry Eros, I don't know how to explain this to you without you getting mad at me." I leaned my head on his chest and hugged him so tightly. "I'm afraid you won't ever forgive me. But I have to tell you now, I have to take the risk... " I listened to his heartbeat and to his even breathing, it was like music in my ears. I touched his abdomen and caressed it lightly, but he didn't stir. I looked at him and realized that he was already sleeping. I checked the time in my alarm clock, it was already two a.m. We spent hours talking about our family, friends, experiences, things we like and dislike, movies, silly jokes and pick-up lines. Eros loved to joke and tease me all the time. He loved seeing me laugh. I slowly moved out of my bed, careful not to wake him up and headed to the bathroom. I took care of my personal hygiene and changed my jeans and blouse into my favorite pyjamas. Then slowly, crawled back to bed and hugged Eros. I couldn't believe that Eros loved me and he was actually here, lying beside me on my bed - sleeping. The man who was overlordly ruthless, controlling and manipulative. Who thought himself as God and the supreme being. He was hated by many, especially by his collegues... they thought he was evil, the encarnated lucifer and even a member of illuminati society. Many weird and bad rumors were spreading about him - and kept on spreading like a disease. But deep in my heart, I knew Eros too well. He was not the man people thought he was. He was a very compassionate man. The way he acted was part of his upbringing as being a Petrakis, who ruled a business empire and relied by thousands of employees all over the globe. He had to be tough and ruthless in order to make a decision - to be fair to everyone. I hugged him tightly and planted a soft kiss at the side of his lips, before laying my head on his shoulder. I loved him... and the thought of losing him was so painful already. Last night, he insisted again that we already met in the bar. A full description of what I wore, what my hair was like, what I talked about, my expressions and how I danced sensuously on the dance floor. Again, for the nth time, I LIED. I realized that I should tell him the truth - before our wedding. No matter what the outcome would be, I should accept it. I groaned. I have only two days left to tell him. Later, I should tell him... later... I yawned and fell asleep in his arms. I woke up with the smell of soap and toothpaste. I opened my eyes slowly and saw Eros looming over me, freshly showered - his hair was still so wet and he was almost naked, with only a small towel wrapped around his waist. "Wake up, sleepyhead." He chuckled and instantly clamped my lips with an open kiss. I was caught off guard. My eyes opened wide. Then in an instinct, I pushed him away with all my strength, using my hands, arms and knees. I sat on bed the moment he was off me. He was off- balanced but instantly recovered before he fell off the floor. The towel around his waist loosened. He was not fast enough to catch his towel before it fell on the floor. I was shocked! My eyes really opened so wide, seeing him in all his glory... naked in front of me. Oh my God! He was so... so... gorgeous and HUGE!

I couldn't take my eyes off his... My goodness! My head was calling all the saints to forgive me. I noticed the familiar brown birthmark at the right side of his lower abdomen. "Jade!" Eros got the towel on the floor and wrapped it around his waist. His face and body turned red. He was embarrassed and mad. "I'm sorry... I.. I..." I stammered then trying my best not to laugh. I covered my mouth with my hands to prevent from giggling and laughing out loud. "What is wrong with you? You're shoving me away." He gritted his teeth. His hands were on his waist now. "Shh, keep your voice down... I'm sorry... you caught me off guard. I haven't brush my teeth yet and you're kissing me like that." He snorted and shook his head. "Just because of that, you're struggling and kicking me away?" "I'm sorry, Eros. I just want to smell so good and fresh when you kiss me." He moved closer towards me then sat on the bed. "Come here." He said and pulled me in his arms. I was sitting on his lap now, feeling the evidence of his arousal pressed at the back of my thigh. God knows, how I tried to ignore it. "Jade, you smell so good to me, I love your natural scent, totally a woman - my woman." He said softly then buried his face in my neck. "Hmm..." He kissed my neck and seared a path down to my breasts. He was unbuttoning my pyjama top when I stopped him and moved out of his lap. I walked towards the bathroom. "Eros... I want to go to Georgia today." "To Georgia? What for? Your grandmother and aunt Anna already arrived last night." I nodded at Eros. He was right. He even pampered Grandma and Aunt Anna, made them stay at New York's most luxurious hotel - all expenses paid by him. "I... I want to visit... someone." "Who?" He asked sharply. "A... a relative. Someone... so dear to me." "OH. You forgot to mention you have other relative in Georgia." "I... um, yeah, I forgot. I'll be leaving this morning... I have to take a bath now, I need to catch the eight a.m. bus." Eros stood up and came nearer to me again. "Honey, I'll take you to Georgia. I wont allow you to take a bus on your own. Wherever you go, I'll go with you and that applies on me too. You'll come with me whenever I'll go abroad or anywhere, in business or pleasure, okay?" I nodded and smiled at him. "We have to get moving now." "Of course. We'll take the helicopter. But first, let me kiss you... properly, baby." He pulled me in his arms and kissed me deeply and passionately. Eros' POV Jade was so silent. She was so edgy and nervous. Her fragile hands were so cold. She was used riding a helicopter already. I wondered what caused her anxitety. "Are you okay? You look so tense." She just nodded and forcibly smiled at me. "I'm fine." I smiled back at her and pulled her in my arms. Pre- wedding jitters. She probably had pre-wedding jitters right now. I experienced it too - because of excitement. I couldn't wait to marry Jade and have her with me all the time. It was like a new beginning, a start of a new book with no endings - a new life. Me, Jade and our kids.

If possible, I would love to have a son as the eldest - an heir to the Petrakis fortune. Who would run the Petrakis business empire after me. He would be more tougher and stronger and get all the best business training and education, like how my parents molded me. Of course, I would love to have a daughter too who would look exactly like her mom, Jade. I smiled at the thought, a miniature of Jade running inside the house, jumping up and down, laughing and greeting me happily everytime I come home from work. I felt so excited at the thought of starting a new family with Jade. I loved her, I truly love her. I couldn't imagine life without her anymore. The moment we arrived Georgia, a car was waiting for us to take us to our destination. But Jade insisted to take a cab intead. I didn't want to argue with her. I didn't care if we would take a horse, a bicycle or just walk to reach our destination, as long as we were together. We took a cab and Jade instructed the driver. It was a thirty minutes drive when the cab finally entered inside a middle class subdivision in West Augusta. "Your relative lives here?" I asked Jade who was twisting her fingers intensely. She looked really edgy. The expression on her face was unreadable, like she was scared, nervous... then suddenly it brightened like she was very excited. The car stopped outside a small white cottage with a small garden of flowers and bermuda grass upfront. The house was surrounded with white wood fence. I paid the bill and we went out of the cab. I was surprised when Jade didn't go to the house but chose to sit on a long bench across it. Maybe she was tired after the long trip. I followed her and sat beside her on the bench. There were big trees that shaded the bench and it was cool. The air was even fresh and smelled so good. "Aren't we going inside?" I asked her when ten minutes had passed. "No." She said and continued staring at the house. She looked like she was waiting... waiting for something or someone. I looked at my watch, it was ten thirty in the morning already. I wanted to ask her why we were not going inside or what were we waiting, when the cottage door suddenly opened and a middle-aged man in brown race, came out of the house. He was carrying a small plastic ball with him. The door opened again and a brown raced woman came out carrying a boy, who was probably three or four years old. He was wearing blue shirt and brown shorts. Are they really the boy's parents? The boy looked different from them because he was a caucasian with brown black hair. I looked at Jade again and was surprised to see her expression. She looked so happy - yes, absolutely happy. She was smiling but with tears flowing down on her cheeks. What's going on? I looked at the people outside the house again. The family looked so happy. The boy was running towards his father to get the ball, jumping up and down. The boy. He reminded me of someone. I was so certain that I've seen him before. I just couldn't figure out where and when. Brown black hair. That same eyes - that looked like gray from where I was sitting and his skin... I saw him before. In pictures. In videos... Oh my God! The boy reminded me of myself when I was young! He looked just like me when I was his age. My heart was racing so fast. I had an ill feeling inside my gut that I couldn't explain and I felt my skin tightened at the back of my neck. I had goosebumps and I started sweating profusely. I looked at Jade and saw her looking at me already. "You know them? That boy... you know the boy?" She nodded. "Yes. He is Zion." "Zion?" I was confused. "You are related to him?" She fell silent and avoided my eyes, twisting her fingers again. Then she looked at me with tears flowing down in her eyes. "I'm sorry Eros... I'm so sorry..." "Jade, what's wrong? Tell me." I held her face with both hands. "Zion... Zion is our son."

Oh my world! Jade why dis??

shaxee next pls... D suspense is killing. * kisses*

Hmmmm,am short of words 4 now,jus keep it rollin @shaxee

Oh ma God! So all dis while u have a son with Eros n u kept it as secret? Wow women n their secrets

NEXT

nxt plz

Wow thank God you said "our" and not "yours" only

Omg,its rili amazin,shaxee abeg dz suspense too much.

a son!!! Aow cumm?nxt plz

Wen does dis happen,is it d nyt wen dey meet @ d club

a son frm d nyt in d bar shaxee nxt pls wats takin u so long

pls update @shaxee

OººOººh my God! So, dats y she is pretending

pls link me 2 d story "the diary series"

Some people calling me Shakee, funny, please my name is shaxee......

@holaryinkhar this is the like https://www.coolval.com/forumsss/topic/the-diary-series-the-journal/

[b]Guys TGHNN will be updated every Sunday, am so occupied with many stuff now, Sunday is the perfect day for me to update the TGHNN series, thank you all for your patience.....[/b]

Chapter Forty Seven (Unedited) -Kindly put your playlists here- "I want to wet your lips, tantalize your tongue; elevate your heart rate and make your veins hum. Burn like fire inside you as you swallow me down. Drink me - drink deeply, my love. Intoxicate yourself with my presense; imbibe my essence. I want to make you so very dizzy; stumble-footed room spinningly drunk on love." - Drink Me by John Mark Green Jade's POV ***Flashback "Hi, what's your name?" Not again. I ignored the guy who sat beside me in the bar counter and sipped on my gin. I had enough of men asking my name. They were like bees, coming to me agressively. Either offering to buy me a drink or asking me to dance. I knew what they really wanted - to take me to bed. I looked down at the skimpy red dress and red stilettos I was wearing. It belonged to Liv, the girl who was with me that evening. She became my instant best friend when I met her at a friend's party a week ago. She was bubbly, full of energy, a bit wild and loved to party all the time. She didn't have worries, problems and any hang ups in life. She had freedom - freedom to do whatever she wanted. Liv was the person I needed at that time. It had been three weeks since dad died and I was so miserable. The pain of losing him really tore me apart. Liv saved me from losing my sanity. She helped me forget all my problems and lessen the pain I was carrying. When dad died, Mom and Sapphire were very miserable. They were crying non-stop and really grieved intensely. They didn't eat and sleep well and I was afraid that they would get sick also, like dad. I comforted them and took care of their needs. I appeared to be strong when I was with them, so they wouldn't be too weak and think about dying too. Instead of grieving, I became so busy, preparing the wake, the funeral - and talked to visiting relatives, friends and collegues of my dad. I became numb at that moment. I forgot to grieve anymore. I didn't even shed a tear. There was no one to comfort me... no one to listen to my pain... and no one to make me feel better. It was almost three weeks when Mom and Sapphire stopped crying all the time. I was relieved that slowly, they functioned normally again. I became so worried of them that I forgot to take care of my own needs too. Mom began attending bible studies and was looking for a caregiver job. It didn't take too long for her to find a new job. Her friend helped her. Sapphire also recovered slowly. She became very busy with her projects in school. She joined several cosplay contests and won most of the time. She enjoyed being with her otaku friends. She was with them every weekend. They helped her to recuperate and start moving on in life after losing dad. What about me? No one helped me ease my pain. Unfortuately, my best friend since grade school, Kathryn, already moved with her family to the Philippines. And of course, Joseph. Who used to listen to all my worries and problems, also left me. Oh Joseph... where were you when I needed you most. I heaved a frustrated sigh and swallowed the remaining content of my gin and tonic. The bitterness made me wince, but I loved it.

Yes, I fell in love with gin and tonic. Ever since Liv introduced the drink to me, it kept me company everynight. It became my medicine, my companion, my haven and my remedy. It helped me erase the pain I was experiencing - ease the grieving which I started too late... I grieved only at the time when my Mom and Sapphire started to recover. I didn't know why, but it just suddenly happened. I was in the bus going home when I burst out crying. Everyone in the bus wondered what happened. Even the driver stopped the bus. "What happened?" Several passengers asked me. "I lost my dad, my dad died!" I was crying so loud and became hysterical. Like I just received the news that my dad was already gone. I couldn't accept it... wouldn't accept it. I realized that I was not only dreaming - that my dad was actually dead. It took awhile for me to calm down. Some people in the bus were sympathetic, others complained of being late for work and their appointments. So fortunate that a social worker was in the bus and she comforted me. I poured all my tears to her. That day, I spent it with my dad, in the cemetery. And that evening, I went to a friend's party, where I met Liv. Since then, I started drinking gin. "Another one of this please." I said to the bartender. "Sure, miss." The bartender winked and prepared the gin, and put it in front of me. I took the glass and about to sip it when someone asked me. "What time is it?" I jolted. The authoritative voice made me leap in surprise. Without thinking, I abruptly turned my wrist inward to check the time on my wristwatch. "Aaaah!" Shit. I spilled my drink on my dress. I looked at the guy who was sitting beside me. Giving him an angry stare. "Oops, not my fault, lady." The guy replied. He was younger that I thought, probably a few years older than me. He had a long black-brown hair and an overgrown beard, that reminded me of Tom Cruise' in The Last Samurai. "I spilled my drink because you asked for the time. You're even wearing a watch." I took a tissue paper on the counter and wiped my dress and my legs. He asked some tissue paper from the bartender and then, gave it to me. I was surprised when he ordered ten glasses of gin and tonic - and the bartender put it infront of me. "Are you trying to get me drunk?" "Why, isn't that what you want?" The long-haired guy smirked. "No... Yes. But this is just too many. You're wasting your money. I can't drink all of these." "Don't worry, I'll help." "Okay... we'll drink together." I was relieved, then piled the glasses horizontally between us. "Cool." He took a glass of gin. "What's your name?" There it goes again, asking my name. He probably thinks I'll give it to him after buying me ten glasses of gin. Well, he is so wrong. "Hmm... you can call me anything." I shrugged my shoulders. "Oh, that's an unusual name. Anything. Never heard of such name before." "That's not funny... I mean you can call me any names." I answered stubbornly. "So, you won't tell me your name. Why is that? Are you wanted by the FBI? Did you steal something?"

What? I'd never stolen anything in my entire life! "It's not funny." He chuckled then said. "Okay, I'll call you Red." "Red?" My lips twisted in irritation. I hated being called Red. The mean girls in grade school called me Red, and then laughed at me. "Yeah, because you're a lady in red. Red dress, red stilettos and red hair." I looked at the skimpy dress and stilletos I was wearing with distaste. I regretted agreeing with Liv in wearing this too sexy outfit and to her idea that we should look like femme fatales that evening. I told her I just wanted to drink and dance. "It's ginger... I mean my hair is ginger red." I shoved a lock of my hair off my shoulder. "Ginger.... That suits you, I'll call you Ginger." Ginger. Only Joseph called me Ginger. I missed him so badly right now and my heart was really aching for him. Where are you when I needed you most? I looked at the guy closely. He was wearing worn out jeans, black shirt and brown leather jacket. I realized he was a very handsome guy and looked harmless. I didn't know what came over me, but he suddenly reminded me of Joseph at that moment. "Yeah, Ginger... I like that." I smiled back at him. "And what's your name?" "Nice try. I won't tell you my real name." He sipped his gin and grinned. "You can call me anything you want too." "Okay... um... I'll call you... Joseph." I said shyly. "Joseph? That's too far from my real time" He paused, thinking. "But... yeah, that's fine with me." "So how's Southern Africa?" I asked the guy, still pretending he was Joseph, my Joseph. "Huh? How did you know I've been to Southern Africa?" "Um, just a guess." "Okaaayyyy... it was great. My family and I had a vacation at Botswana. I think that was five or six years ago. We had fun in safari camps in the Moremi Game Reserve..." We started drinking the ten glasses of gin infront of us. The minutes turned to hours as the glasses of gin kept on emptying. We started talking, laughing, teasing, touching... dancing... then touching again... and I didn't know who started it, but we were instantly kissing. I was drunk and I was clinging on him with weak arms. I knew I would fall on the floor once he removed his arms around me. All the time, he was running sweet kisses on my cheek, my jaw, my neck and down to my cleavage. It built delicious sensation all throughout my body. "Ginger, where's your friend? It's late." "I don't... know..." My voice slurred. I didn't really care where Liv was. I just wanted to be with him. My Joseph. "I'll take you home. You're drunk." "I'm not. I only drank three glasses." I looked at him with puppy eyes. "Joseph, I love you, please... don't leave me." "Sweetheart, I hate to say this, but you don't say you love a guy the very first time you meet him." He hiccupped. "Why are you like that. You don't believe that I love you. I'm a grown up woman now." I suddenly felt so sad that I started to cry. "Shh... sweetheart. Don't cry. Of course you're a grown up woman." He reclaimed my lips, kissing me with fervor, running his hands from my waist, to my hips, down to my thighs. "Come on, it's time to go home."

"No. I don't want to go home. I want to be with you." I begged, then initiated kissing him on his lips. "Kiss me more... please." "Are you sure?" He asked, seeking for confirmation. "Yes... please." *** WARNING *** WARNING *** WARNING *** *** Below is for MATURE READERS ONLY or 18 years old and above *** ***Enter at your own risk, this is STRICTLY FOR ADULTS ONLY*** He obeyed and kissed me hungrily, thrusting his tongue inside my mouth. Licking and tasting. He kissed my throat again with intensity, pressing his erection on my stomach. "Dammit, you're so beautiful." He murmured. "I want you, so badly now. Tell me you want me too, Ginger." It was so hard to register what he meant. My whole body was burning up, like flame. I wanted him to continue what he was doing on my body. I was intoxicated with his smell, his touch, his kisses... "Yes, I want you... Oh... don't stop..." I couldn't recall how we ended up in a room at the top floor of the bar. Either he dragged me, or carried me. All I remembered was - we were kissing passionately. I didn't even noticed that he already took off my clothes. How did he do that? I grasped when he removed my bra and covered my breasts with his hands. I turned away from him but he was so fast. He encircled my waist with his arm and pressed my back on his chest. "Relax." He whispered softly. His voice was deep-velvet edge and very sensual. I relaxed and leaned my back on him. Then he was kissing my neck, licking the sensitive area behind my ear. I let out a soft moan as his hands covered my breasts again, massaging and rolling my swollen nipples with his fingers. I squirmed with the pleasure of his touch and bit my lower lip to prevent myself from moaning out loud. He tilted my head up with one hand and kissed me druggingly and deeply. Oh my goodness. Then, In one fluid motion, he turned me towards him, pulled me up in his arms, and suckled my breast, then the other. I was so shocked. The sensation was so delicious that my body trembled. My heart was beating wildly and my pulse rate was racing foolishly. He laid me down on the bed and kissed every inch of my body, ravishly, like a starving man. I squirmed and cried with pleasure when his lips touched the core of my desire. My body tingled and quivered wildly as he continued to tease me mercilessly - that brought me to the edge time and again. He took off his clothes and got something in his wallet. Then he came back to bed, totally naked. I diverted my eyes away from him, feeling embarrassed. Then he kissed me again and slowly spread my legs. He positioned his hips and his hardness met my softness with much passion. In one thrust, he entered inside me. I cried at the sudden burning pain. He stopped and frowned at me. "You're a virgin." I nodded. "Please don't ever stop." He groaned like he was in pain. Then he started to move, pushing inside me, so slick, hard and strong. **** I woke up at dawn, feeling disoriented. I had a terrible headache and my eyes were sore. I forgot, I slept with my contact lenses on. I looked around the room. My goodness, where am I? I immediately sat down and realized that I was naked. Oh my God! What happened? I suddenly panicked - terror suddenly overwhelmed me. Then I felt someone moved beside me. My eyes shifted to the man sleeping on the bed - the man I met in the bar last night. Joseph? NO. He is not Joseph... he is a stranger. My God, I slept with a stranger last night. I got scared and embarrassed. I felt dirty and soiled. What have I done? My first instinct was to run and hide at that moment... and I did.

Wow! Ride on bro

so dats hw u get pregnant for eros@Jade

Pls next ooooooo cos am dying of suspense

OººOººh its interesting Good to knw U̶̲̥̅̊ a̶̲̥̅̊я̲̅ε̲̣̣̣̥ wedding each other

tks 4 updatin @ shaxee bt try 2 update more

Keep it rollin @shaxee,we r wt u

@shaxee pls we r waiting,today is sunday,dont disappoint us

Shaxee,pls where are you now, u are kiping us waiting. This suspense is too much. Its sunday already. You promised us a sunday update.

@shaxee please now

Guys am sorry for the late update, was busy guys... This the update. Chapter Forty Eight (Unedited) -Kindly put your playlists here- They say love is blind. I disagree. Infatuation is blind. LOVE is all-seeing and accepting. LOVE is seeing all the flaws and blemishes, and accepting them. LOVE is accepting the bad habits and mannerisms, and working around them. LOVE is recognizing all the fears and insecurities, and knowing your role is to comfort. LOVE is working through all the challenges and painful times. Infatuation is fragile and will shatter when life is not perfect. LOVE is STRONG and it strengthens because it is REAL. --found in ilovemylsi.com, Pinterest Eros' POV "Zion? Our son?"My eyebrows slightly furrowed. What the hell is she talking about? I was confused - really confused. I wondered if I heard her right. Did she say,we have a son? I continued staring at Jade, I was puzzled by her statement. My hands tightened on her arms - not letting her go until she confirmed what she just said. She nodded. Tears flooded in her eyes and flowed down on her cheeks. "I'm sorry Eros for lying. I... I got scared that you'll hate me once you'll find out that I'm Ginger... and we have a... a son." My eyes widened with disbelief. I couldn't understand what I felt at that moment. I was so shocked like I was struck with bolts of lightning. Yes, since I saw her transformation on our engagement night - without her dark-rimmed eyeglasses, black wig and vintage clothes, I knew she was Ginger. I kept on asking her and teasing her about it but she wouldn't admit. And now that she finally admitted I was not surprised anymore. BUT, the revelation that we have a son - that was something that blew my mind away! I let go of her arms and immediately stood up. I looked at the young boy across the street - outside the small cottage, playing with a dog, a black labrador retriever, that was twice his size. My son?! That boy is my son? I still found it so hard to believe that I was looking at my son! My own flesh and blood. I couldn't understand... my brain refused to function... everything wouldn't register. I shook my head, trying to organize my jumbled thoughts. My eyes shifted back to Jade. She was crying with her head bent. She was twisting her fingers again. Her habit when she was anxious. I used to find it so cute, but right now - it annoyed me. "We have a son? How did that happen?" She suddenly looked at me with a puzzled expression. "You don't remember? You slept with me that night, after we met in the bar."

I twisted my lips. "Of course I remember. But I'm very cautious. I used a protection." I raked a hand through my hair - trying so hard to control my temper. She continued staring at me with a hurt that was visible in her eyes. "You're the only man I slept with, in my entire life." The thought of her on bed with another man - past, present or future was upsetting me. I would probably hunt each and everyone of them and ripped their throats. "I know you're a very decent woman, Jade. There's no question about that. It's just that..." I shook my head and gritted my teeth. I clenched tightly my trembling hands. "For God's sake, why didn't you tell me that we have a son!" All this time, I have a son and she hid it from me. I don't understand what her motives are, maybe she wanted to hurt me, or make me suffer. For what? She wanted that thing to happen as much as I did! "I didn't know who you were back then." Her voice trembled. "I didn't even get your real name..." "Yeah because YOU pretended that I was Joseph Nevin that night." There, I said it. I was really hurt. I felt like she used me. "What?" I couldn't hide my anger any longer that I snapped at her. I didn't care anymore if she was hurt. "You were imagining him when I was kissing you, touching you and making mindblowing sex with you." "No... Eros, you're wrong..." "Am I? You know it's the truth, Jade, so stop lying!" She was silent for a while. Just looking at me with horror in her eyes. Then she confirmed it - and that hurt me to the core. "I... I guess you're right. I'm sorry. I... I was young and got infatuated with Jo..." "Enough. Don't you dare utter his name. Ever." Dammit. She was thinking of another man when we made love that night - and to think that she conceived our SON. I was full of rage and jealousy - If possible, I wanted to erase him totally out of her mind. The thought of her thinking about him made me crazy with jealousy. She frowned but slightly nodded her head obediently like a small girl. I looked at the boy again. My boy - Zion. He was a miniature of me. Exactly like me when I was his age. The Petrakis genes were so evident in his physical features - brown-black hair, gray eyes and bronze- colored skin complexion. Zion kicked a plastic ball and hit the dog's face. The dog barked and suddenly looked aggressive. I had a sudden urge to go and protect Zion from the beast, but the middle-aged man scoped Zion in his arms, cuddled and put him on his neck. Zion laughed happily. I was envious of the man. Zion was so attached to him and they looked so happy together. What the hell! I should be the one playing, cuddling and laughing with my son. He's my son. He belongs with us. HE. IS. A. PETRAKIS! My heart ached, like I was stabbed with a knife. It pierced so deeply. I didn't know what I felt at that moment. I had mixed emotions. My world suddenly fell apart. I didn't cry anymore... I stopped crying when I reached puberty. But at that moment, I wanted to cry out so loud, to let go of my anger - the pain and frustrations. I felt like I was stolen with something very valuable, PRICELESS, that I couldn't live without - a part of my life... NO. Not just a part, but my whole life.

"Why, Jade?" I asked her again, this time, slowly and calmly. "Why didn't you tell me?" "I told you I didn't know who you were. I... I just realized that you were the guy I met in the bar when... when... I...." "When what? Tell me before I'll lost my sanity." "When I broke the cup - the fake Ming Dynasty cup." "What? For God's sake, that was two years ago!" "I'm sorry." She twisted her fingers again then looked at me. "I... I had a feeling it was you when I first met you, but I tried to deny it. I only confirmed it when I saw your, um... birthmark - on you lower abdomen." "Is that the reason why you refused to work for me again?" "Partly yes. You were ruthless. I got scared too. What if you will know the real me. What if you will know about Zion." She rubbed her temple and looked at me with tired eyes. "But you wouldn't let me go. You never stopped. You even threatened to send me to prison." I heaved a frustrated sigh. Prison? No way. The only prison cell that I could think of, for her at that time was my penthouse' luxurious master's bedroom. I looked at Zion, who was still playing with his plastic ball - kicking it. The dog was tagging behind him. "What happened? Why did you give him up for adoption?" My hands trembled again with rage but still trying to calm my voice. She had to tell me the truth and gave me a valid reason why she couldn't take care of our kid. "I didn't have a choice. I was too young when I had Zion... only eighteen. I even sufferred depression for more than a year. I cried a lot everynight, grieving for my dad and so worried that I got pregnant. I was scared. I didn't know who you were. Mom was so mad at me for being so irresponsible. She kept on asking who I slept with, but I couldn't answer her. I was so down and disappointed of myself." She sighed heavily and continued. "Mom sent me to the convent with my aunt Annie and grandma. They helped me recover my depression and coped up with my pregnancy." Oh God. Hearing what she went through made my heart bled. I felt responsible of her miseries. She suffered, alone, the consequence of our action that night. "I went back to the bar the following night - and almost every night. I was looking for you. When I couldn't find you, I hired a private investigator to help me. But, we never succeeded. No one knew you and your friend." "It was our first time going there. Besides, my friend Liv was homosexual. He only dressed up as a woman during the night." "What do you mean was?" "Liv died a week after I met you." "What?" "Liv was missing for days. His body was found in the forest. He was killed because the man he dated thought that he was a real woman." "Oh God. And that added to your misery." "Yeah. I thought I was getting crazy at that time." I pulled her in my arms. I finally understood her miseries. She suffered a lot already and the thought of her suffering more was very upsetting. I didn't want to torment her and made life harder for her. I loved her. I should accept not just the beautiful side of her but also her flaws. She came into my arms instantly, encircling her arms around my waist. "I'm sorry." "Shh...You suffered enough already, I don't want you to suffer anymore. I'll take care of you." I felt her head nodded. "Thank you. Um... Is the wedding still on?" "Of course! I lost my son. Losing you too would be very shattering. I wont allow that to happen, ever." I tipped her head with my fingers and clamped her mouth with mine, kissing her deeply. "I love you so much, Jade. No matter what will happen, I'll stay right here by your side, forever and always." "Oh Eros..." She murmured and kissed me back. After a while, she said. "Zion seemed so happy with his adopted parents." "Yeah, he is." She smiled contentedly. "Thank you Eros. Now, I have peace of mind." ***11 pm, Markos Petrakis' mansion*** "What the hell! We have to get him, fast. He is my grandson!" My father, Markos Petrakis said. He was so restless and kept on pacing his study room. "Dad... we have to take this slowly and surely." I said in a very calm voice so my father would relax. "We have to consider also Jade's feelings and the couple who adopted Zion." My mom, Nina Peres Petrakis said, caressing dad's back up and down, to calm him. "No Nina! He is a Petrakis, our first grandson, the heir of our fortune. We are his family, he belongs with us. By hook or by crook, we must get him, as soon as possible."

Guys pls dont forget to visit my blog @ www.stmuvi.wordpress.com thank ya all

Shaxee, u finally update. So happy. Buh pls dnt let it come late again. Love this so much. Eros was so understanding.

Better forget about ur hook or cranny method of getting Zion back. People az been caring and raising Him all this while and it wld be unjust if u take him away just like that. Welcome back @shaxee

Hmmmnn, Α̲̅♍ short of words

Woooow i love this story

nxt pls dnt let us wait a century b4 postin anod episode

Pls we re stil waitin 4 d nxt episode

na God i use take beg u.post dix tin na

Shaxee, where you dey na, u wan make we fall down wey u put us for chaor wey no get leg since mondey enh? Diaris God o.

Chapter Forty Nine (Unedited) -Kindly put your playlists here- "When a man truly loves a woman, she became his weakness. When a woman truly loves a man, he becomes her strength. This is called, Exchange of Powers." - Anonymous Jade's POV "You're lucky that Eros is a good man. He didn't get mad at you for keeping Zion a secret." My mom said. "Yeah. He is really a good man, that's why I fell in love with him. But other people don't know that. They still thought that he is ruthless, cold and a terror." "Admit it Jade. He was." Sapphire snapped at me. "Hmm... he was, but not anymore." "He changed because of you. He fell in love with you so easily too." Sapphire said while texting on her phone. I giggled. "That's what he said." "Anyway, Joseph message me on facebook. He said he reconciled with his ex-fiancee. They're getting married again next month." "OH, that's great... good for him." "Yeah." Sapphire shrugged her shoulders. "Anyway Jade. I'm really sorry about telling Joseph about Eros... that you were hiding from him, that once upon a time, you met him in a bar and something happened, that made you hated him and avoided him. "Saph, just don't do it again, Ok? It was a mistake. "Yeah, I'm so sorry." "It's okay Saph, don't worry." Eros' POV ***Markos Petrakis' mansion, 6 pm, the night before Eros' and Jade's wedding day*** "They're here!" Chloe shouted. My heart immediately lurched with nervousness and excitement and my hands trembled. I couldn't understand what I felt, as if all my body went numbed. "Shh... Chloe, relax... Everyone should relax, we don't want to scare them away, especially Zion. Okay?" My mom, Nina Petrakis turned to the rest of us who were seated on our living room big victorian sofa. Iñigo was drinking dried martini with dad, while I was there, just sitting in the corner of the sofa. I was afraid too. A lot of questions where playing in my mind. What if Zion wouldn't accept me as his father? What if he wouldn't like New York and prefer the peaceful like in Georgia? What if he prefers his adopted parents than us? What if? Oh God. I wished Jade was here. It would help a lot if she was here. We could comfort each other. But Jade didn't know what was happening tonight, here in the mansion. Mom insisted not to tell her. She would freak out for sure and get restless. She needed to have a good night sleep for our wedding tomorrow. Besides, mom was superstitious, she believed it was bad luck for the groom and bride to see each other before the wedding. Jade. Yes, she felt so bad about this whole situation. She regretted what she'd done - giving away Zion for adoption. Countless times, she asked for my forgiveness.

"Stop blaming yourself, Jade. You're just making yourself miserable, and I don't want that." I said to her when I called her this morning. We even discussed about settling the matter to the court. "If we'll take this to court, we could win. You were not in your own state of mind at that time. You were depressed because you just lost your dad, your friend, Liv - and suddenly got pregnant. Besides, you were so young." "But that would be so messy. I don't want to drag this to court. Zion will be the one to suffer in the end, psychologically." "You're right, I don't want that either." "I wish I could turn back the clock. I want him back, Eros." "I know, sweetheart. I want him too, so badly." "Zion's adopted parents love him so much... and he learned to love them too." "Yeah." I heaved a sigh. "They would feel too bad if we'll take Zion away from them, and Zion will feel miserable too." "I don't want him sad. What are we going to do?" She asked. "Actually I already have an idea. Dad and I talked about this last night. We think that this is the best solution, for us, for Zion and for his adopted parents." "Really?" Her voice rose with hope. "What is that?" I told Jade about the whole plan and she felt so happy and hopeful all of a sudden. "Just trust me, sweetheart, okay?" "Of course, I trust you, Eros. I love you." "I love you more, baby. Just enjoy and relax today. I want you properly rested for our wedding night tomorrow." "Really? Not for the wedding ceremony, but the wedding night?" "HAHA! Yeah, for the wedding night, baby." I chuckled. "You are really a naughty boy, Mr. Petrakis." She let out a giggled laugh that made me hot and hard all of a sudden. ___ I was in Philadelphia today, for a very important business venture when dad called me to inform that he already sent his lawyers to Georgia, to talk to Zion's adopted parents. "I thought we agreed to take everything so slow, dad." "Time is gold, son. Why waste time? You want your son, as well as Jade - and the rest of us. There's no need to prolong the moment. Besides, this could be your best wedding gift for Jade. She will be delighted." "It's not the right thing, you're very impulsive. Let Jade and I handle this matter, its none of your business." "Bullshit, Eros. He is my grandson! Don't deprive me of my right. I am your father, dammit." Dad said angrily. "I'm sorry, dad. This whole situation got me so edgy." "Zion should be at your wedding tomorrow. I don't know if you've ever thought about this. When he'll grow up and see the photos and videos - he'll wonder why in world he was not at his parents' wedding." I chose to remain silent. Arguing with dad was like poking your head with a stone. He wouldn't let anyone defeat him in an argument. Besides, he was right. "We have a good chance of winning this case, son." "I know dad. Just make sure no one will suffer dad, especially Zion."

"Of course." -- My mind brought back to the present when mom shouted. "Oh my God! I saw him!" Mom exclaimed after she peeped out of the window. "He's so adorable!" "Mom... calm down. You said we should relax, and now you're the one freaking out." Chloe said. "Shh... they're here." Dad stood up and went nearer to the main door. Just in time, the main door opened. Mr. and Mrs. Gonzales, a middle-aged couple, entered with my son, Zion, in Mr. Gonzales arms. They were escorted by my dad's bodyguards. My heart was leaping so fast with happiness when I saw Zion. His eyes looked so alert and roamed at the ceiling, the paintings, the lights, the people in the room and at dad who greeted them. Then he turned his back at us and hugged his adopted father, Mr. Gonzales. "Come in, come in." Dad greeted them and shook their hands. Then he showed them inside the house, but his eyes never left Zion. "Hi. I'm Nina Petrakis." Mom tried to be so calm, and twice, she reached out to touch Zion's back. She introduced dad, Chloe and Iñigo. "... and this is my son, Eros, Zion's dad." Mrs. Gonzales' eyes suddenly widened. The terror was visible in her eyes. It was obvious that she had fear that I would take Zion away from them. "Good evening." Was all I said. My eyes focused at my son. "Hi, um... I'm Edna Gonzales... and this is my husband, Roberto." I couldn't contain my tears. I shed tears and I didn't know what came over me - my heart really softened. I gave Mrs. Gonzales a gentle hug, then her husband, and hugging Zion at the same time. "Thank you. Thank you so much for accepting our invitation." "It is our pleasure too. We don't want to deprive Zion of his family." Roberto Gonzales said, then slowly loosen Zion's hands on his neck and turned Zion towards me. For the first time, I touched and carried Zion, my son. I hugged him so tightly and kissed his head. I really cried... although I tried so hard not to. I looked at Zion's face and he was staring at me. Then his hands reached out and touched my face. He wiped a tear in my cheek. "Stop crying, daddy." My heart almost burst out with happiness when Zion called me daddy. I looked at Mr and Mrs. Gonzales, and they just smiled. "I told him that we are going to see his daddy and mommy. He understands. He's a very smart kid, Mr. Petrakis." Mrs. Gonzales said. Oh God. "Thank you." Was all I said to them. I was overwhelmed with happiness. I was very thankful that the adopted parents of Zion were good people and very religious. Mr. Roberto Gonzales was a school bus driver and Mrs. Edna Gonzales was a plain housewife. I hugged Zion again and he hugged me back. Then he said. "Can I ride your helicopter again, daddy?" I chuckled. "Of course, son. We can fly together, with your mommy Jade." He was an amazing kid. I still couldn't believe that finally, I was holding my son. My own flesh and blood. He was so young, fragile, with small hands and arms. I wanted so badly to protect him, keep him safe always. Oh God, I love him. How I really wish Jade was here to hold him too. She would be overflowing with happiness. Mom and Chloe stood beside me. They were touching and caressing Zion's back, arms and legs. They were fascinated with him just like me. "Hi Zion, I'm your grandma." Mom said, trying to get Zion's attention. "How are you?" Zion just stared at mom, then shifted his eyes to Chloe. "Hello. I'm your aunt Chloe." Chloe made funny faces, so Zion would smile. But he didn't. "One of these days, I'll take you shopping. We'll buy plenty of toys. Anything you like." "Mom, don't spoil him." I said. "Don't worry, darling, I won't." She hissed. Suddenly, we heard a screetching sound. Our heads turned to where the sound came from. It was from the remote controlled toy car that dad was holding. "Down, down." Zion said. I put him down and immediately he went to dad and grabbed the remote control. "Do you like it?" I heard dad said to Zion. "Yes sir." "Call me grandpa, Zion. Okay?" "Okay grand-pa." Later that evening, I played hide and seek with Zion. Then we played Xbox. After that I read him a story on his bed - at the guestroom with his adopted parents, until he fell asleep. I felt so happy that finally I met my son. He was such an amazing kid and I loved him so much. Now I realized what it felt to become a father. It was so fullfilling and the happiness was something that no one can explain.

Hmmmmm. So touching

Wow! Finally u r now united with ur son and happiness az found u. Congrats Egos

Finally!!!!! So, interesting

So interestin

So touching, i realy love this piece, so amazing.

Wooooow

Eros u got to be happy

Wow, wow, wow, so av missed dis much, its so amazing w@ hs transpired btw dis amazing couple (Eros nd Jade). Kip it rolling @shaxee.

Wow!! See as i jus dey smile,am happy 4u eros....

So happy for Eros and Jade.

2day na sunday nah, @shaxee, wetin dey happen, we neva see any update 4 here oooo

please always kip to d promises dat yhu make,yhu said dat yhu will be posting on Sunday and we've not seen anything now.

oya o @shaxee waiting

See sunday don dey pass go..why promise nd fail??

[b ]Am sorry for the late update guys, but wanted to make this chapter enjoyable to everyone[/b] Chapter Fifty (Unedited) —Kindly put your playlists here— "When I look in his eyes, I don't see perfection. I don't see a love story that would necessarily be something people would watch on a big screen and dream about - I see someone, who would fight for me... protect me... and love me, in spite of all the ways I am still a wreck. I see home. Wherever he is, that's my home." – Melanie Shankle, Pinterest Jade's POV "You look so beautiful, Jade." My mom said with tears welled in her eyes. "I wish your dad is here to walk with you to the altar." "Mom, you already said it three times. Please don't make me cry. It's my wedding day." "Sorry. I'm so emotional. I couldn't help but remember my wedding day too.... And... and I couldn't believe that my little girl is getting married." She immediately smiled to brighten our mood, wiping her tears off with the tip of her white lace hankerchief. We were inside the white limousine, on our way to St. Patrick's Cathedral, where my wedding with Eros would take place. I was wearing a very lovely white ball gown, strapless court train tulle, sequin rhinestones and diamonds studded wedding dress. My three-inch sexy silver bridal shoes - stiletto heels matched my wedding dress. My hair was pulled up in a bun and a beautiful diamond tiara accented on my head. My makeup was elegant and classy that emphasized my green eyes. I clasped my mom's hand to comfort her. I knew she was nervous, happy and yet, sad too that I would be leaving our home – her and Sapphire. Several times, I told her not to be so emotional about it. She was not losing me, instead she was gaining a son. Eros and I would always be there for her and Sapphire. She hugged me and kissed my cheek. "I love you my baby angel. I know your dad is happy for you and Eros. You might not see him, but he'll be there in the church, walking down the aisle beside you to meet your groom at the altar." "I know mom." I replied, trying so hard to hold my tears. We arrived fifteen minutes earlier the sched time for the wedding. The limousine parked outside the main entrance of the church. Mom went out of the car and I was left alone, waiting. I was really nervous – my hands and feet were shaking. I was so happy and excited. I still couldn't believe that I would marry Eros, the man I loved so much, and who also loved me equally and unconditionally. I was so engrossed with myself, thinking of a lot of things – mostly about Eros and Zion that I didn't notice the limousine door opened. Eros' mom, Nina Petrakis entered. "Oh Jade, you look so beautiful!" She gasped and hugged me. "My son is so lucky to have you as his wife – beautiful, smart and kindhearted. We are very happy that he chose you. You are everything that we asked for in a daughter in-law."

"Thank you Mrs. Petrakis." "No...no.. no. From now on, you call me mom, okay?" I was overwhelmed with happiness that I hugged her. "Thank you... mom." She smiled and hugged me back. "Jade, I know that you are nervous, excited, happy... and this is not the ideal time to tell you... but... I have to tell you something very important." Oh my God! My heart skipped a beat. What's wrong? Weird scenarious played in my head. What happened to Eros? Is he coming or not? "Markos said yes, and Chloe said no. Eros said no at first... and this morning, he said yes... I'm confuse. But... I think I should tell you about it, before the wedding." "About what?" "About..." She heaved a long sigh, then said. "Zion?" "Zion? What happened to him? Is he okay?" I was getting so anxious now. I would die if something happened to my baby. "He's here." My eyes opened so wide, and my brain stopped functioning. Then, tears suddenly welled on my eyes. The tears that I kept on holding a while ago, finally fell down on my cheeks. I was really shocked that I found hard to breath. My heart was beating so fast. I was so happy and excited to see him. My baby boy, finally, I could touch him, hold and embraced him - so tightly... oh God, how I longed for this day to come. Every night, every single night I regretted what I did – giving him away for adoption. Many times, I was uneasy, wondering if he was okay, if he'd already eaten, taken a bath, not ill, etc. A lot of questions that I couldn't answer - if his adopted parents treated him right, if they loved him so much and if they were taking good care of him. "He's here?" I asked again to confirm if I heard her right. "Yes. We invited his adopted parents, and of course Zion. The Gonzales' are good people. They understood the situation very well. They didn't want to deprive Zion of his right to meet his biological parents and attend the wedding. They arrived in the house last night... and they're staying with us right now." "Oh my God! Where is he?" I peeped out of the window, trying to see where he was. But the car windows were tinted, I couldn't see clearly outside. I couldn't contain my happiness that I wanted to get out of the limousine and find my little boy. "Relax, Jade. He's here." Mom Nina opened the car door. Then a familiar middled-aged woman entered – Mrs. Gonzales. With her was a boy... my precious little boy, Zion. My heart lurched. I couldn't believe seeing Zion up close and within my reach. Oh my goodness, he looked so adorable and handsome in black tuxedo with his brown-black hair plastered neatly on his head – he looked like Eros... a miniature of his Eros.

Oh God, my baby. My tears kept on falling now. I didn't care anymore if I ruined my makeup. I was so happy to see Zion. I wanted to hug him so tightly and kiss him – make everything alright. I wanted to tell him how much I loved him and how sorry I was for giving him away... I wanted to explain and make him understand... to make everything right for him.... for us... for everyone. Mrs. Gonzales and Zion were sitting across me in the limousine. Zion's eyes roamed inside the car, the ceiling, the carseat and the lights. Then his eyes focused at me. "Oh... Jade. For heaven's sake, stop crying." Mom Nina said, caressing my back lightly, up and down. "Dear, it's okay. Don't cry, it's your wedding day." Mrs. Gonzales said. "Jade, this is Edna, Edna Gonzales, Zion's mother. Edna this is my daughter in-law, Jade. Zion's.... er... biological mother." "Hello Jade. Finally I meet you." Mrs. Gonzales extended her hand and I took it, clasping it gently. My eyes shifted from Zion to her then back to Zion. I couldn't take my eyes off Zion. He looked so wonderful, adorable and amazing. My heart really bled for him. "Hi." Was all I managed to say. "And this handsome boy here is Zion." She said touching Zion's head. "Zion, go to Jade, she's your mommy." "Mommy?" Zion said, looking up at Mrs. Gonzales with questioning eyes. "Yes, your mommy. We're here to meet your other daddy and mommy, right? We've already met your daddy eros last night... and now, here's your mommy Jade. " "Oh! Sorry... I forgot." He said and playfully snapped his forehead with the palm of his right hand, then smiled at Mrs. Gonzales. Mom Nina laughed at Zion, then said. "Come on, Zion, be a good boy, hug your mommy Jade." Zion looked at me, then slowly and shyly came into my arms. His small arms encircled my waist. I immediately pulled him up on my lap, then hugged him so tightly. My tears wouldn't stop now. I kissed his cheeks, his head... and smelled his baby scent. I poured all my love to him... "I miss you baby, I love you so much. I'm sorry... I'm really sorry... my baby boy... Zion..." I kept on whispering on him. I kept on hugging him, so afraid of letting him go... I wanted him beside me, always... I wanted to take care of him, amend all the mistakes I've done to him... especially for abandoning him. "Jade... Jade... Jade!" I heard mom Nina said – and I could feel Zion starting to wiggle out of my arms. "Take it easy, you're scaring him." "Oh, I'm sorry." I fixed Zion's hair and embraced him loosely. "Hi, Zion. I'm your mommy Jade." I tried to calm myself now and stopped crying. "I know... Mama and Papa told me." He replied looking at me shyly. "Eversince, we told him the truth that he's adopted and he has another mommy and daddy. We know that time will come that he'll wonder why he looks different from us – he's caucasian and we're Filipinos. Right now, these things doesn't bother him. He's still very young and couldn't understand what's really going on. All he knows is how much we love him, so dearly like our very own flesh and blood." Mrs. Gonzales said. I touched Zion's cheek, his arms and his small hands. He was so perfect. "Thank you Mrs. Gonzales for taking care of Zion." "You're welcome Jade. And call me Edna." She smiled sweetly. "He's a good boy. We're lucky to have him." "I wish we could spend more time with Zion, very soon." I looked down at Zion, who was playing with the beads and diamonds on my dress – actually counting it. "Yeah, soon. You are welcome to visit us in Georgia." "Thank you." I said and hugged Zion again. The limousine suddenly opened and Eros dad, Markos Petrakis said in a very authoritative voice. "The groom is so impatient. He sent me to tell you Jade that if you're not getting out of the car in five minutes, he'll come and get you himself." "Oh my goodness. You, Petrakis men, are really very impatient. Don't worry Jade, you'll get use to it." Mom Nina said and winked at me. "You need a retouch. Wait for your make-up artist here, ok?" "Thanks." I replied, wiping any traces of tears in my eyes and cheeks. I hugged Zion again and kissed him before he left with Edna. He hugged me back and kissed my cheek. "You're very beautiful, mommy." My heart instantly melted when he called me mommy. I couldn't bear it anymore. The moment I was alone in the car, I burst out crying.

Wow! Wot a reunion! So happy for you Jade & Eros. Wishing you guys a happy married life

Wat a reunion, so happy for them both.

ur penalty 4 posting late is u wil post d oda episode quickly

What a nice family reunion

Wow so happy for you Jade but dont spoil your makeup oo

So emotional...

Atlast i met the second to the final update...i can't even say the amount of mb i use Chai i just want to feel the happiness of the end of it..... I already guess the story will end after the wedding... so emosional and touching ...o ta lenu . .

Oooops! So, touching Α̲̅♍ so happy for U̶̲̥̅̊ guys

Crying as well.

@shaxee wats up na,no update yet?

Dnt 4get to keep ur promise

So interesting

Haba! @shaxee U̶̲̥̅̊ knw update on sunday иσω

u dnt keep to promise

u neva even finish this story u hv started another one,y z ur lyf lyk dis ehh shaxee wether na shakee

Guys i really enjoy entertaining you guys pls i will keep that in mind. You can help me out and read stories in my poor blog and comment i will continue posting some stories here too watch out for my coming series. You can visit my blog with any of these url below: www.stmuvi.xx.tn www.stmuvi.ml www.stmuvi.ga www.stmuvi.cf all this url will direct you to the same blog, show me some love and be a member in my blog. Thank ya all....

so u wont finish d stories here

Shaxee are u not going to complete this story

i tried for diz guy ooooh

Shaxee,pls continue dis story

p ls complete dis story nau, did u wnt to use a whole year to complete a story, its getting boring everyday to me wen i check here nd i did nt see new update. If u really wnt us to register in ur blog contiune this story. Am begging u pls update

Chapter Fifty One (Unedited) --Kindly put your playlists here— "Love is an unconditional commitment to an imperfect person. To love somebody, isn't just a strong feeling. It is a DECISION, a JUDGEMENT and a PROMISE." – from Bestlovequotes.tumblr.com Trivia: Do you know why the marriage ring is placed at the fourth finger from the thumb of your left hand? --Because its the only finger that has a vein which is directly connected to our heart. Eros' POV I was like a nervous wreck. I couldn't control my hands and my feet from shaking. I was so tense and yet, very excited. I've been waiting for this day to happen. To finally take Jade as my wife. I dug my hand inside my pants pocket and took my white hankerchief out. I wiped my forehead and my neck again. I was sweating profusely. I couldn't control the spasmodic trembling within me. The lump in my throat was getting worse. I took a deep breath and tried to relax. I was afraid that I couldn't express my feelings for Jade, in words. That I would totally forget the lines that I kept on practicing last night. Oh God... I was a very confident man and always in control of myself. I mastered the art of talking and giving long speech to a big crowd. I often talked in Global business conferences, international seminars for young leaders, entrepreneurship discussions and even debates - in different languages. BUT with Jade... I stammered. My tongue got twisted and my words get jumbled whenever I spoke of my feelings for her. Maybe because of her eyes... I got lost whenever I stared at her dazzling emerald green eyes. I cleared my throat and looked at the ceiling of St. Patrick Cathedral – a Neo-Gothic-style Roman Catholic cathedral church in the United States and a prominent landmark of New York City. "Chill, dude." My best man, Kobe Latsis leaned nearer and whispered. I nodded and looked at Iñigo, Tristan, Xander and the rest of the groomsmen who were already in place to the right of the altar. Iñigo gave me a thumbs up sign. He understood what I felt at that moment because he just got married to my sister, Chloe, a month ago. My first cousin, Tristan – Tristan Latsis, Kobe's older half brother, just looked at me and shrugged his shoulders. His face was set with distaste. He hated weddings. He was allergic to marriage and commitment. Like I was, before. But his case was worse. His mother ran off with her personal trainer when he was only five years old, abandoning him and his father. That explained why he lost his trust in women. Well, I thought he would never come. I was surprised when he arrived last night from New Zealand – where his business was based. Xander Valiente was a childhood friend. He was my ultimate business rival. But despite of that, we are good friends, nothing personal, only business. He was very disappointed that I wouldn't be marrying his sister, Stella. But eventually, he understood. He had to, because I was in love with an amazing girl, named Jade. Xander was supposed to be a married man now, but unfortunately, his fiancee ran off a week before the wedding.

My eyes immediately focused at Zion, who was walking down the aisle, carrying the ring bearer pillow. He looked so adorable in black tuxedo. A very handsome little boy, simply amazing. I was sure many girls would fight for his attention once he'd reach puberty. I was overwhelmed with happiness that Zion was able to come on our wedding—and that Jade finally saw him. I was sure, she couldn't contain herself from not hugging or kissing him. Zion was our son. It was right that he should be at our wedding. I was just thankful that Mr. and Mrs. Gonzales understood the situation. They agreed for Zion to come and visit us sometimes, but in one condition. Not to take Zion away from them – even changed his name to Petrakis. He was their son, not ours... was what Mr. Roberto Gonzales often said. He was a hard-headed man and he was willing to fight tooth and nail for Zion. But he is my son. My own flesh and blood. He belongs with me and Jade. We are his real parents. Soon... I have to find a way... soon... Two cute little girls carrying baskets followed Zion. They were tossing red rose petals as they walked down the aisle. One of the flower girls stepped on her gown and fell on the floor. She looked like she was about to cry, but I was surprised that Zion went back to the little girl and helped her to stand. Everyone was awed by his actions and that made me so proud of him. He was already a gentleman at a young age. When Zion almost reached the altar, I scoped him in my arms and hugged him. I kissed his forehead before putting him on his assigned seat. The music suddenly stopped. Everyone stood up and started to get excited – smiling, giggling and looked at the main entrance of the church. My heartbeat raced faster, getting so excited to see Jade and at the same time, nervous. The intro of a song started playing and the main door of the church slowly opened. The moment I saw Jade, I felt inside me melted. She was so beautiful, standing there, dressed in all white. I was speechless... Oh God, she took my breathe away. For all the times I felt cheated, I complained You know how I love to complain For all the wrongs I repeated, though I was to blame I still cursed that rain I didn't have a prayer, didn't have a clue Then out of the blue Jade smiled the moment our eyes met. I smiled back at her and held her eyes as she walked down the aisle. She looked like an angel... a very beautiful angel, sent by God, to share my life with. God gave me you to show me what's real There's more to life than just how I feel And all that I'm worth is right before my eyes And all that I live for though I didn't know why Now I do, 'cause God gave me you I was such a lucky man, to have her as my wife. She meant the world to me. Life made perfect sense when she came in my life. For all the times I wore my self pity like a favorite shirt. All wrapped up in that hurt For every glass I saw, I saw half empty. Now it overflows like a river through my soul. From every doubt I had, I'm finally free I truly believe She was the most amazing, prettiest, funniest and sweetest girl I've ever met. She made me live, laugh and love. I wouldn't ever get bored when I was with her. God gave me you to show me what's real. There's more to life than just how I feel And all that I'm worth is right before my eyes. And all that I live for though I didn't know why Now I do, 'cause God gave me you In your arms I'm someone new With ever tender kiss from you. Oh, must confess I've been blessed.

In her, I've found the love of my life and my closest best friend. God gave me you to show me what's real There's more to life than just how I feel. And all that I'm worth is right before my eyes. And all that I live for though I didn't know why (Didn't know why) Now I do, 'cause God gave me you (I finally do, God gave me you) God gave me you "You're so beautiful" I mouthed to Jade, when she was just a few steps away from me. She giggled and gave me a very sweet smile that lit her face more – and that made me blush like a lovestruck teenage boy. I took her hands and she clasped mine so tightly. Her hands were cold and trembling. "Hi." She said. "I'm so tense." "It's okay, sweetheart... it's okay." I whispered to her, reassuring her. Then I put her hand on my forearm, as we walked together towards the altar. The wedding ceremony lasted for forty five minutes. Finally, it was time to say our vows. "Jade, I bring myself to you this day to share my life with you. You can trust my love, for it's real. I promise to be a faithful husband, and to unfailingly share and support your hopes, dreams, and goals. I vow to be there for you always. When you fall, I will catch you; when you cry, I will comfort you; when you laugh, I will share your joy. Everything I am, and everything I have is yours, from this moment forth, and for eternity. "Eros, you are my best friend for life. I pledge to honour, encourage, and support you through our walk together. When our way becomes difficult, I promise to stand by you and uplift you, so that through our bond we can accomplish more than we could alone. I promise to work at our love, and always make you a priority in my life. With every beat of my heart, I will love you. This is my solemn vow." After a while the officiating priest said. "You may now kiss the bride." I gasped when I lifted Jade's veil. She was so beautiful. Actually the most beautiful girl I've ever seen in my entire life. I couldn't believe that she was my wife now... the girl I once never noticed. I put my arms around her waist, and slowly my lips descended to meet hers. We kissed passionately to seal our marriage vows - proving to each other how sincere we are in fulfilling our promises. To love, trust and honor each other... for the rest of our lives. [b]***The End***[/b] To those who wanna make contact with me or talk with me, you can add me on whatsapp [b]2348147826858[/b] It will be an honour to speak with one of my readers. Thank ya'll @itzshaxee @shaxee. I hope we meet again with more entertaining stories that will glow you forever and shows you lessons... The only favour i ask from you readers is, let your friends know about coolval22.com, helping build a community is an amazing willing...

wat a very lovely story.kip it up shaxee.more grease to your elbow

Oh my....... Finally, d long awaited moment z hea........ Tnx shaxee dis z indeed a hapi new mnth with a wonderful story 4rm u

thank u very much shaxee

nice writeup i love d story ......wish it will n t end

Tanx for finally updating it, it was so awesome more greese to ur elbow.

interestin

nice story tank u @shaxee

am so happy nd i also learn also from dis wow dis story av happy ending nice1nd also thnk u so much i love dis story so much thumb up nd also more greese to ur elbow dear once again thnk u for sharing dis wonderful story @shaxee wow u ar wonderful

Wow,it has cm 2 end,tnx 2 God,welldone @Shaxee more grease 2 ur elbow,nd God ll giv u more wisdom knowledge nd undestading

waow at last. @shaxee we will always do dat. we will build our community (coolval22.com) to d best any story community can ever be. Happy married life Jade&Eros

Wow!!!!!!! Finally u noticed her....ur pen wil never cease to flow@Shaxee

Nice story

Beautiful story

Whao! ! Finally it ends,,,,,,,,,,,,ℓ̊ so much love dis stowie Tenx @shaxee we will be expecting more of U̶̲̥̅̊

What an interesting story

Nice story

nice job. Am glad dis story is end at least. Bt hw did he claim zion?

Atlast Very Interesting

Wat a way to end d story. Shaxee u try,God bless u. . . . . Watch out!!!

wowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww. This is fantastic

wow

What an amazing story...very touching and enjoying...never a dull moment reading it....good work bro keep it up

Thanks for an amazing story....indeed i was touched...gud 1

wow dis is the most interesting story i have ever read............thumb up@shaxee

Nice story dear, thanks @Shaxee

What a lovely story, wish u more wisdom. Thumb up

Nice story bro. more palm oil to ur elbow.....

Waoooooh wat an intresentin story nd more greese to ur elbow @shaxee

Waooooooooh wat an intresentin story u hv here @shaxee hmmmmm, more greese to ur elbow

Read b4...just had 2 read again...super b

nice one ever

A beautiful beginning & A Wow ending

Sweet wryt up

wow!I love it.I wish it will never end

nice one man u did a great wonderful write up love it I learnt a lesson from to move from secret love to real

Wonderful story... So lovely and touching

Dammit.......d story is cool

Hmmmm

Nice story

Cool... I dn miss o

@shankystar5 , the best way is to locate the story

followin

wow ...this was a good story ...love you guys you always make my day

I love this story Mhen thumbs up to the writer..