"Hey…" I heard his soothing voice as he gently took my hands, which were still covering my tear-streaked face. I remained hunched over, tears flowing silently.I waited for him to speak, my breath hitching with anticipation, as he continued to hold my hands.Slowly, I allowed myself to look at him through my blurry vision. His eyes, up close, held a tenderness that contrasted sharply with the turmoil in my heart. His eyes were unique, bearing no resemblance to Ares. They were deep and soulful, framed by thick eyebrows and long eyelashes that matched the intensity of his gaze.A few stray hairs framed his face, some falling across his eyes, and yet, it seemed to suit him.A sense of vulnerability washed over me as I realized that he had not uttered a single word. H

My heart sank upon hearing his words. It was as though I had been jolted awake, and I turned to him, my emotions a swirling tempest within me. Was this pain I felt in my heart?Hector, with his cold eyes, gazed back at me, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips."But I think that's too much to ask for. You intended to file for it, didn't you? Yet you left. Do you still want to go through with it?"His questions were directed at me, but he didn't wait for my response. He turned away and continued, "In that case, you probably need money, but you don't have enough of it... I need an assistant. The salary, I believe, is adequate and fair. I'll hire you, and your first day is tonight. Come with me."Before I could protest or question his proposition, he walked away, leavin

I couldn't pinpoint the exact moment it all began. The grip around my waist loosened without my notice, causing my heart to race even faster. I attempted to put some distance between us, feeling like I was running out of air, yet his kiss only intensified. His labored breathing, our combined heavy breaths in the midst of the silent night, were gradually but surely making me feel raw and vulnerable."H-Hector..." I murmured as we briefly parted. The weakness in my knees led me to lean against his chest. "W-why are you here?"As I struggled to catch my breath, I met his gaze. His widened eyes locked onto mine. The way he bit his lower lip added to his allure. Captivating... his intense, slightly intoxicated gaze seemed to drown out any sensible thoughts. I couldn't help but wonder if this was always my reaction every time he claimed my lips.

I observed Ayanna's sharp gaze fix on me before she turned to face Hector, who in turn looked at me with an inquiring expression. His eyes seemed to be searching for something, and I hurriedly avoided making eye contact with him."You didn't respond to my messages, but of course, I'll be here. Anton called me too. You're going to the resort today, and the bidding will commence," Ayanna informed Hector.I intended to leave, having no part in their affairs, but as I turned, I froze when Hector called my name."Solei." His voice held a deep gravity that felt almost threatening. I swallowed hard before meeting his gaze."W-why, sir?"His jaw clenched, prompting me to look away. Dealing with this man was always a challenge.

"I have to get back to the barn," I told him groggily, adjusting myself.It was only then that I noticed I was wearing different clothes, and the dark outside signaled the lateness of the hour. Where are we? Where did he take me after what happened? What time is it now?"You need to rest—""I'm fine, Hector," I cut him off, standing up.I needed to get home; I was sure Amari was worried about me. His earlier conversation was disturbing. Who was he talking to? What were they discussing?"Hey…"His voice softened as he suddenly grasped my hand. I turned to look at him. His expression shifted, the fear and anger I'd seen earlier when he confronted Ayanna were gone.