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Category: Exclusively Yours

  • Exclusively Yours – Episode 65

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 65

     

    EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 65


    Subtitle; {Please, Love Me}

               ✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿                                                                                                                            
     
                                  
    Olivia’s POV 
    My heart dropped to my stomach as a smirk grew on her face, her eyes void of any emotions except insanity, if it could count as one. 
    I made an attempt of taking a step forward, which had her bringing out a scissors and walking to the window. Jade rested her back on the wall, her hand which held the scissor going out of the window, slowly inching to the rope. 
    “Stop!” The yell broke out of my mouth and she grinned widely. “Jade, that’s a baby.” 
    “I know. Yours and Riccardo’s baby.” 
    “J-just let him go.” 
    “Okay.” She said with a shrug, bringing the scissor to the rope again. 
    “No! Not that.” 
    “But you just said I should let him go.” 
    All the boldness I thought I had before was slowly departing from me, leaving only a mother’s fear of losing her child. 
    “Jade, he’s a baby. Leave him out of this, please.” I pleaded, tears forming in my eyes. 
    “Unfortunately, I cannot leave him out of this, especially when he looks so much like Riccardo.” She tsked thrice, her eyes scanning me from up to down. “I just don’t know what he saw in you. I mean, what is so special about you?” 
    “I don’t know, go ask him yourself.” 
    Jade tilted her head to the side with a devilish smile. “I have an idea.” 
    “And what is it?” 
    “Díe.” 
    “What?” 
    “If you díe, I can take over and be Riccardo’s wife and Kalix’s mother.” Her words sounded foreign in my ears and I tried my best not to move an inch because she was still with the scissor. “Oh, sorry, I meant stepmother. Wouldn’t that be fun?” 
    A reply was about to leave my mouth when I heard my baby’s cry from the window. My eyes grew wider like as if I didn’t know he was there. 
    “Ah, look who’s up.” Jade drawled out. “He had a nice nap, didn’t he?” 
    I felt a lump or bile grow in my throat. My legs also decided to act funny as it wobbled. “Can I please have him?” 
    “No.” 
    “Jade, what’s wrong with you? That’s a baby who has nothing to do with our issues. Let him go, and don’t try acting like you don’t understand what I mean by that.” I snapped, my patience running thin as his cries continued. 
    Kalix has always been a good boy since the day he was born. He only ever cried when he is hungry or need a diaper change, otherwise he is an happy child. Hearing him cry while not in my arms broke my heart in an unexplainable different level. 
    “You are stressed out, why don’t you have a drink of water?” Jade said, her eyes searching for something in my hand. “Where is the water?” 
    “What water?” I asked, confused. 
    “The water you were given at the reception desk.” 
    My eyebrows narrowed as I tried to get over how she said that. It was almost as if she wanted me to drink the water. 
    But why? 
    Did…did she put something in the water? 
    Oh God, I’d have drank the water if not for Willow. She indirectly saved me without knowing it. 
    “Let me have my son and I’ll leave you alone.” Taking a brave step forward, my voice firm. “I won’t have to call the police on you for attemptéd múrder, two times kidnappíng, and múrder.” 
    Jade’s face scrunched up in confusion, of course. “Múrder? And who did I kíll?” 
    “No one. But lies could rise at any point, can’t it, Jade? The police will definitely believe me…” I took yet another step subtly. “Why, you may ask. Erm, because, one, I’m Olivia Torrence. Two, you’re mentally unstablé.” 
    “What? No, I am not.” 
    “Like I said before, lies could be formed. Let my child go, Jade.” 
    A sigh escaped through the small gap between her mouth and I tried to remain calm as I watched her retrieve the rope, and held Kalix in her arms. “Here.” 
    She is Jade Rodriguez, of course she has a plan B. But because my child was involved, I marched forward and took him in my arms. Showering Kalix with kisses, I hugged him to myself, allowing him to feel my warmth. 
    “Aww, such a cute sight. It makes me almost not want to shoot you two.” My head snapped to her as soon as the words left her mouth, and unsurprisingly, she was with a gun. “Ah, made you look.” 
    On my hand, my brain was telling to just go out. I mean, the door is less than ten feet away from me. While on the other hand, my heart was telling me not to try that because she might shoot me when I’m not looking. 
    Hissing as I am conflicted about which to choose, I quickly made a decision. After making sure that Kalix is securely kept on the bed, I stood up right, brushing my fingers through my hair. 
    “You know, even if you manage to kíll me, Riccardo will still not choose you. And if you even try harming a hair on Kalix’s head, he will definitely make you pay the price. Whatever you do right now will determine Riccardo’s reaction, so why don’t you prove that I’m wrong in calling you mentally unstablé and let us go?” 
    She tried to hide it, but it was visible in her eyes that she was contemplating on it. Jade Rodriguez was falling for my tricks. 
    “You have an amazing career many will kíll to have and you want to throw it all away because of a man doesn’t want you. I mean, can you blame him? Men don’t like desperate ladies. We have to play hard to get for them to fall helplessly, that’s what I did.” Her fingers shuddered and I paused thinking she wanted to pull the trigger. “There are so many other ways of making Riccardo leave me for you, and trust me, this is not it.” 
    “You’re lying. You are playing with my head. Riccardo wouldn’t leave you even if there’s a gun to his head.” Jade snapped, killíng the distance between us. With the gun aimed at me, we kept our gaze locked together. “That man is so in love with you and I don’t see the reason why. But if I end your godforsaken life here and now, then he’ll be as miserable as I am right now even if I don’t get him.” 
    My heart raced, my palms grew sweaty and I took a step back. 
    “I have just two bullets here. Who should I kíll first, you or Kalix?” 
    Just when I thought I was out of options, my eyes met the table just beside my legs. And the godsent of a table happen to hold a bowl of fruits which also held a knife. 
    “Tick, tock, tick, tock, tick, tock. My time is limited, Olivia.” 
    Oh, she has no idea how true that statement is. 
    Her finger teased the trigger and just when she pressed down on it, I swooped down to take the knife. A gasp evaded my mouth the same time my body flinched as the bullet hit the wall. 
    One down, one to go. 
    A humorless laugh broke out of her lips as her eyes flickered from me to the weapoñ in my hand. “What are you going to do, stàb me?” 
    “Drop the gun.” I ordered. 
    “No. Drop the knife.” 
    “No.” 
    With a shrug, she repointed the gun to Kalix. “Guess he’s going first, huh?” 
    I scoffed and sent a kick to her side, which landed her on the floor. Picking up the gun, I faced her with a smirk. “Oops, sorry.” 
    Jade glared at me from the ground where she belongs before standing up to her feet. “You bítch, how dare you?” 
    “No, how dare you?” I rasped. “You did not only kidnàp my child, you also put him in a very risky situation. I swear, you are going to rut in jail, if I don’t end up killíng you right now. So, it’s your pick; jail or deàth?” 
    “You wouldn’t dare.” 
    I honestly don’t know what or who gave her the impression that I can’t do what I said, but she is going to have to reset her head sooner than later. 
    “You’d be surprised.” The sound of the door opening made me turn my head, and a sigh of relief left my mouth when I saw it was Riccardo. 
    His eyes scanned the room, only relaxing when he saw Kalix and I, and yet he still asked. “Are you fine?” 
    I nodded. “The police?” 
    “Outside.” He said as he wrapped his arms around me, pressing a kiss on my head. “God, I thought something happened to you.” 
    “I am…” The words instantly stopped when Jade threw herself out of the window. My jaw dropped in complete shock as I froze, staring at the window.
    TBC 
    Previous Episode            
  • Exclusively Yours – Episode 64

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 64

        

    EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 64


    Subtitle; {Please, Love Me}

               ✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿                                                                                                                            
                                  
                                  
    Olivia’s POV
    Number – Hi, long time no see *Kalix’s picture* 
    Although my head was busy panicking about what situation Kalix could be in right now, it still managed to quickly dissolve the anonymous texter – Jade Rodriguez. 
    She is back, yet again. But this time will be her absolute last comeback. I’d have let her go, but she decided to bring my flesh and blood into the matter, she will pay a deàdly price for that. 
    I waited patiently for another one of her text, because I know she will definitely send another and she did. 
    Another message. 
    Number – I know you must already know who I am by the first text, but if you don’t, come see me. Don’t bring Riccardo, and don’t dare bring the police. Act smart, he diés. 
    A maniacal smile feathered itself on my lips as I reread the text. Dúmb of her to think I’ll actually listen to her threàt and no tell Riccardo, my husband about it. 
    And like acting like the frightened dumbàss I appear to be in her eyes, I typed back a reply. 
    ME – Who are you? 
    UNKNOWN(Jade) – Give it a guess. 
    I scoffed at her lame attempt to play psychopàth with me. Not bragging, but I have spent a lot of time around Harry and he must’ve rubbed off on me, and I’m not saying he’s a psychopàth but he is, so.
    Shh, don’t tell him I said that. 
    ME – I don’t know. 
    UNKNOWN(Jade) – Too bad. I should feel insultéd on how quickly you forgot me. 
    No, I don’t blame her, it’s because I let myself slip the last time that makes her think she got some sort of upper hand against me. 
    Just when I was about to type back my reply, Riccardo strode back to me with a glass of water. He stopped just when he got to me, his brows scrunching up when he saw my phone in my hands. 
    “It’s Jade.” I told him even before the undeniably approaching question left his mouth. “Jade took our Kalix.” 
    And just like as if the weather changed, his dark eyes darkened with a storm ready to wreck everything standing in its way. “Jade took my son?” 
    I nodded. 
    “How are you so sure about that?” 
    Without a word, I gave him my phone and I watched his eyes read through our conversation. A hum so dark and brooding made its way out of his tight-lipped mouth. 
    “You’re not going there alone.” He said, or more like ordered. “There’s no way on Earth I’m going to let you go alone.” 
    “I know that, but…” 
    “No ‘buts’, Olivia.” Riccardo snapped, handing my phone back to me. “Don’t even try arguing with me right now.” 
    “I am not…” 
    “Yes, you are.” He cut me off again. 
    Taking the glass of water from his hand, I placed it on the nearby table before holding his hands in mine. “Baby, can you let me talk, please?” 
    “Fine, that’s if you have something not annoying to say.” He mumbled like a literal child.
    “Jade is obviously mental, and crazily obsesséd with obtaining you. She has tried to kíll me before, and now, she’s with our child. We can’t let her húrt him, not even in the tiniest bit…” 
    Shaking his head, he cut in once again. “I know that, but I can’t let her húrt you too. We will go together with the police and get our son back.” 
    “She might try something cràzy.” 
    “Won’t be the first time.” I heard him mutter under his breath as he raked his fingers through his hair. 
    “Yeah, it’ll be the last.” I nonetheless replied. 
    “What do you want to do?” I know it took him a lot to hear me out and I gave me a little smile. “What do you have in mind?” 
    “Let me go to the address with my car, you’ll call the police and both of us will follow me at the back. If I don’t come out in twenty minutes tops, come find me in the building.” 
    Riccardo let out a breathy sigh. “But it’s way too risky to wait for a whole twenty minutes.” 
    “Fifteen then?” 
    “Ten tops?” 
    “Too short. I’m there, I can take care of Kalix if trouble arises.” 
    “Then who takes care of you?” His question took me unawares, but with an exhale, I let myself calm down. “You need me. I need you.” 
    Standing on my tiptoe, I wrapped my hands around his neck in a much-needed hug. Inhaling his scent, absurd peace and calm settled itself in me. “Fifteen minutes. I’ll be fine, trust me.” 
    Riccardo’s chest rose and fell against my body as he circled his arms around my waist, pulling me closer to himself. “I can’t lose you. I can’t bear the thought of life without you, or Kalix.” 
    “Neither can we.” I whispered in his ears, placed a kiss on the side of his neck, and another to his forehead. “We love you a lot, too.” 
    “He hasn’t said it.” 
    “I’m sure he feels it.” 
    ••
    Squinting my eyes through the sunglasses on my eyes, I stared at the highest building I’ve seen in my life that seemed to also be an hotel. 
    I didn’t know that this building existed before now. It was even hard to locate it, but thankfully, I did it in record time. 
    I exhaled, trying to put together all the strength and determination lurking inside of me. No hàrm must come to my child at any point in the time, even if I have to get húrt in return. 
    After I felt like my emotions and everything is in check, I sent a quick text to Riccardo to let him know that I’m going in now. Stepping into the threshold of the building, I’m met with the workers decked up in uniformed outfits, pacing to and fro, busy with one thing or another. 
    Making my way to the front desk, I tapped my fingers impatiently on the desk as the girl was busy on a call. As soon as she finished, she threw an apologetic smile my way and I, of course, acknowledged it with mine. “I’m here for Jade Rodriguez.” 
    “Oh, right.” The words flew right from her mouth. “She has been waiting for you. She’s in room 666, that’s in the last floor.” 
    Confusion washed over me in a second. “Last floor?” 
    “Yes, the top floor.” 
    Oh. 
    “Here is the key card.” She added. Her hands went to retrieve something from under her desk, causing the confusion to linger as I held the key card in my hand. “Complimentary bottle of water.” 
    I smiled, taking it from her before dashing to the free elevator. I pressed the floor her room is on and started another round of impatiently waiting for the ride to be over. Not even up to four minutes later, a little girl of around seven or eight joined the ride. 
    “Hi.” The girl waved, a polite bow followed. “Are you having a good day?” 
    “No, not really.” I don’t know what made me just say that. “You?” 
    “No, me too. My mum just left to get something, and she told me to go back to our room; it’ll be so boring without her.” 
    “Watch some TV.” 
    “TV is boring, too.” 
    “Read a book.” 
    “Boring.” 
    “Take a nap.” 
    “Boring.” She dramatically drawled out, rolling her eyes. I chuckled at her display before crouching down to her level. “You’re really pretty.” 
    “Thank you. You too.” 
    “I like your necklace.” 
    I like it, too. My mom gave it to me on my seventh birthday and it has been on me since then. I allowed my fingers brush against it. 
    “Yeah? Thanks. What’s your name?” 
    “Willow. What’s yours?” 
    “Olivia.” 
    “Do you have a sibling?” 
    Without hesitation, I nodded. “I do. You?” 
    “A baby sister. Her name is Oakley.” 
    “Your parents must love trees a lot to choose those names.” 
    “My Mom does.” She smartly replied. “She’s a flowerist.” 
    Another laugh from me. “Er, I think it’s called florist, Willow.” 
    “Oh, you’re right.” 
    “I am glad you see it, too.” I brushed her jet-black hair behind her ear. “Are you alone?” 
    “Yeah.” A sad pout took spot on her face. 
    “Which room? I’ll come keep you company after I’m done with what I want to do.” 
    “What do you want to do?” 
    “Save my son.” 
    “You have a child?” I nodded. “How old is he?” 
    “Three months old.” 
    “He’s such a baby. My sister is also a baby, she’s a few weeks old.” 
    “That’s nice. You’re so smart.” 
    “Thank you. Bye, Olivia.” She said and ran out even before the elevator could open completely for her. I shook my head at her cuteness. 
    She didn’t even tell me her room number. 
    But it looked like she also remembered because the doors of the elevator opened again, revealing her small figure. 
    “Forgot something?” 
    She breathlessly nodded. “Yep. My room number is 606. And I pray for you to save your son, you’ll be his very own superhero.” Her words already greatly ruffled my insides, alerting my floodgates, and she just had to make it worst by hugging me. 
    The bottle water rolled out of my hands as I crouched down to hug her well. Tears already stained my face as I whispered a thank you to her. Her smile was the last thing I saw before she ran off again. 
    I promise you, Kalix, I won’t let anything bàd happen to you. 
    Finally, it got to the floor I’m needed and I shot yet another message to Riccardo to tell me that I’m about entering Jade’s room. Ignoring my parched throat, because unfortunately, I wasn’t with the bottle water anymore, I retrieved the card from my jean pocket and unlocked the door. 
    “Well, well, well, look who we have here.” Her annoying voice that I seemed to have forgotten scratched my ears as soon as I stepped in. “Long time, no see, am I right, Mrs Torrence?” 
    My eyes scanned the room, in search of my son and when I didn’t find him, I took another step forward. “Where is he?” 
    “Who’s he?” She tried playing the clueless card, and she did it with a big grin on her face. 
    “Kalix.” I replied. “Where is Kalix, my son?” 
    “Oh, him.” I’m already getting bored and it hasn’t even been a full five minutes, yet. “He’s hanging around.” 
    “Hanging around where?” 
    “Why do you think the window is open in an air-conditioned room, especially when I’m this high up?” Jade Rodriguez’s response sent a shitloàd of terror straight up my heart. 
    “What?”
    TBC 📖
  • Exclusively Yours – Episode 48

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 48

      

    EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 48


    Subtitle; {Please, Love Me}

               ✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿                                                                                                                    
                                                                                      
                                  
                                  
    Riccardo’s POV 
    You know that feeling you get when life is already upside-down, but chooses to stumble and shake uncontrollably, destròying every single thing you’ve worked for or known for your entire existence? 
    No? 
    Well, you’re lucky then because no one is supposed to ever feel like that ever. But, unfortunately for me, I seemed to be curséd. 
    I knew today wasn’t going to go well just like the pass few days and expected less. But, what I didn’t expect was Olivia finding out that I killéd her parents. I also didn’t expect to see the betràyal in those orbs of hers that I love so much. 
    I haven’t even gotten over the fact that I raiséd my hand on her. And yes, I know I didn’t hít her, but I did raíse my hand and I will never forgive myself. 
    And since then, I couldn’t even talk to her after that atrócity. But when I wanted to talk to her and explain myself, she completely vanished. 
    Where’s Olivia? I don’t know. 
    I have checked every nook and cranny for her. I left no stone unturned in search of Olivia, but still she was nowhere to be found. 
    Dejected and disorientated, I slumped heavily on the sofa with an equally heavy sigh. My eyes heavy from hours long exhaustion, fatigue stretching itself on every inch of my body, I threw my head back and groaned. 
    “Ricky, just calm down. You’ll find her.” My sister, Nicole tried her best possible to console or convince me, but it clearly wasn’t working. 
    “How do you know that?” I snapped. “It has been five hours, Nikki. Five hours!” 
    She slowly nodded her head, understandably. “I know, Riccardo. I think you should eat something.” 
    My head snapped to her so fast, I legit thought it’d break. “What? Eat? Now? Are you freaking serious?” I rasped. “Do you have any idea that my wife is missing?!” 
    “She’s not missing, she’s just hiding from you.” Nicole apparently thought it was a wise choice to correct me now. “And you can’t find someone who doesn’t want to be found.” 
    Not paying attention to her, I slipped my fingers into my hair for the umpteenth time tonight and tugged at it, definitely ripping out some strands. 
    “Stop that. You’ll húrt yourself.” 
    “I’m already húrt, Nikki.” 
    Silence reigned over the atmosphere as no one said anything again. The obnoxious ticking of the clock loud and annoying, irritating my ears at every tick that I even glared at it a few times. 
    “This is all my fault.” I heard Nicole muttered in a barely audible tone and I turned to look at her only to see her lowered head. 
    I wanted to quickly tell her otherwise, but there was something in her voice that says certainty. So, I asked, “What are you talking about?” 
    She lifted her head and I readjusted myself on the sofa upon seeing the tears in her eyes. “I’m so sorry, Ric.” 
    “Why?” I reluctantly inquired. 
    A tear dropped from Nicole’s eye and she gulped down. “I’m the one that told Jade about Olivia’s parents deàth.” 
    I sprang up on my feet, distancing myself from her. She mirrored my actions, more tears spilling from her eyes. “You knew?” 
    “I didn’t know that it was your car, but I knew that they diéd in a car accident. I did the investigation myself and told Jade. She somehow managed to find out that it was you. I’m so sorry.” 
    “Why?” I asked. “Why did you do it? Why did you tell Jade? You don’t even like or know her.” 
    Nicole slowly nodded, the tears increasing every passing second. “I know that, but I… I don’t know, I just… I just… I am sorry.” 
    “Sorry?!” I yelled. Soon, an humorless laugh spilled out of my mouth. “You’re sorry? That will totally fix every broken thing your words ruinéd. Why, you don’t even know.” I paced around the living room, tugging my hair harder. “Like what did I ever do to you?” 
    “You’re way too loved by Mum and Dad!” She snapped. 
    “What?” 
    “I was here first, but immediately you arrived, everything and everyone shifted their attention to you. I was pushed aside like I was nothing but mere tràsh by my own fuckiñg family!” 
    What the f+ck is she even talking about? 
    When was she ever pushed aside?! 
    “Did you know that I was rapéd when I was in highschool?” Her voice wavered shakily and I stumbled on my feet, nearly falling to the ground. “Yes. I was molestéd by my private tutor and whenever I tried to tell mum, she always had her head stuck in you. Eventually, I was rapéd by him and decided not to say anything because she wouldn’t even listen to me. And it was all because of you!” Nicole’s body shuddered as she spoke and I remained stuck on a spot, unable to move an inch. “I hatéd you so much. I even wished for you to dié, but when you got into that accidént, I don’t know, I just… Just fell in love with you. I saw you as my baby brother for the first time ever and I knew I loved you even after everything. So, yes, I am sorry, Riccardo.” 
    “You were rapéd?” I barked out. 
    My own sister was molestéd and rapéd against her wish by a f+ckiñg disgústing piece of garbàge and I didn’t know all this while. And I claim to know her?!
    I don’t know her! I don’t know her at all because if I did, I’d know what happened to her. 
    I’m a bàd brother. A bàd husband. A bàd human being. I… I am a mònster. 
    She tearfully nodded. 
    “What’s his name?” 
    “Riccardo, no.” 
    “I asked a question, Nicole.” I snapped, the anger in my body pulsing so hard, the blood could burst out. “What’s his name?”
    “Forget that, please.” Her voice nearly cooled my hot temper down upon seeing her panic-stricken face. “Just look for Olivia. She might be in trouble or some sort.” 
    “After I find Olivia, I’m going to kíll that sorry excuse of a man if he isn’t already déad. And so help me God, he better be.” 
    She nodded. “I’m sorry for telling Jade and I promise, it won’t happen again. I guess, I just wanted you to feel a pinch of pàin I felt and I wasn’t even thinking straight.” 
    “You never think straight though.” I teased and she threw a throw pillow at me. “Nikki, you should have told someone.” 
    “I did. I told my husband and he was the only person who understood me then and even now. I am so sorry, brother.” 
    “It’s enough, Nikki. I’m glad you found your own person, but my own person I found is missing because of what you said.” I said. 
    “I know and I’m really and genuinely sorry. I don’t want Levi to lose his godfather, please.” 
    “That’s impossible.” I stretched open my arms and her tear-filled eyes met mine, confused. “Your baby brother needs a hug, big sis.” 
    More tears streamed down her face as she stepped into my arms, wrapping her hands around me. “Do you forgive me?” 
    “Yes.” 
    Nicole pulled out and wiped her face clean. “Where did you check?” 
    “Axel’s house. Felicity’s house. Her previous apartment. And even, the closest hotels.” 
    “When I didn’t want to be found on some gloomy days, I go to the place no one will ever think of.” 
    That sentence brought my brows to a narrow and I deeply thought about it. My brain waves speeding up. 
    “Do you know anywhere like that for Olivia?” She added. 
    No, I don’t. But I do know where she could have gone, I’m not sure though. She might be there because I once took her there and that is also the place I go to when I needed peace and quiet in past. 
    “You got an idea?” 
    “I think I do.”
    TBC 📖✍️
  • Exclusively Yours – Episode 48

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 48

      

    EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 48


    Subtitle; {Please, Love Me}

               ✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿                                                                                                                    
                                                                                      
                                  
                                  
    Riccardo’s POV 
    You know that feeling you get when life is already upside-down, but chooses to stumble and shake uncontrollably, destròying every single thing you’ve worked for or known for your entire existence? 
    No? 
    Well, you’re lucky then because no one is supposed to ever feel like that ever. But, unfortunately for me, I seemed to be curséd. 
    I knew today wasn’t going to go well just like the pass few days and expected less. But, what I didn’t expect was Olivia finding out that I killéd her parents. I also didn’t expect to see the betràyal in those orbs of hers that I love so much. 
    I haven’t even gotten over the fact that I raiséd my hand on her. And yes, I know I didn’t hít her, but I did raíse my hand and I will never forgive myself. 
    And since then, I couldn’t even talk to her after that atrócity. But when I wanted to talk to her and explain myself, she completely vanished. 
    Where’s Olivia? I don’t know. 
    I have checked every nook and cranny for her. I left no stone unturned in search of Olivia, but still she was nowhere to be found. 
    Dejected and disorientated, I slumped heavily on the sofa with an equally heavy sigh. My eyes heavy from hours long exhaustion, fatigue stretching itself on every inch of my body, I threw my head back and groaned. 
    “Ricky, just calm down. You’ll find her.” My sister, Nicole tried her best possible to console or convince me, but it clearly wasn’t working. 
    “How do you know that?” I snapped. “It has been five hours, Nikki. Five hours!” 
    She slowly nodded her head, understandably. “I know, Riccardo. I think you should eat something.” 
    My head snapped to her so fast, I legit thought it’d break. “What? Eat? Now? Are you freaking serious?” I rasped. “Do you have any idea that my wife is missing?!” 
    “She’s not missing, she’s just hiding from you.” Nicole apparently thought it was a wise choice to correct me now. “And you can’t find someone who doesn’t want to be found.” 
    Not paying attention to her, I slipped my fingers into my hair for the umpteenth time tonight and tugged at it, definitely ripping out some strands. 
    “Stop that. You’ll húrt yourself.” 
    “I’m already húrt, Nikki.” 
    Silence reigned over the atmosphere as no one said anything again. The obnoxious ticking of the clock loud and annoying, irritating my ears at every tick that I even glared at it a few times. 
    “This is all my fault.” I heard Nicole muttered in a barely audible tone and I turned to look at her only to see her lowered head. 
    I wanted to quickly tell her otherwise, but there was something in her voice that says certainty. So, I asked, “What are you talking about?” 
    She lifted her head and I readjusted myself on the sofa upon seeing the tears in her eyes. “I’m so sorry, Ric.” 
    “Why?” I reluctantly inquired. 
    A tear dropped from Nicole’s eye and she gulped down. “I’m the one that told Jade about Olivia’s parents deàth.” 
    I sprang up on my feet, distancing myself from her. She mirrored my actions, more tears spilling from her eyes. “You knew?” 
    “I didn’t know that it was your car, but I knew that they diéd in a car accident. I did the investigation myself and told Jade. She somehow managed to find out that it was you. I’m so sorry.” 
    “Why?” I asked. “Why did you do it? Why did you tell Jade? You don’t even like or know her.” 
    Nicole slowly nodded, the tears increasing every passing second. “I know that, but I… I don’t know, I just… I just… I am sorry.” 
    “Sorry?!” I yelled. Soon, an humorless laugh spilled out of my mouth. “You’re sorry? That will totally fix every broken thing your words ruinéd. Why, you don’t even know.” I paced around the living room, tugging my hair harder. “Like what did I ever do to you?” 
    “You’re way too loved by Mum and Dad!” She snapped. 
    “What?” 
    “I was here first, but immediately you arrived, everything and everyone shifted their attention to you. I was pushed aside like I was nothing but mere tràsh by my own fuckiñg family!” 
    What the f+ck is she even talking about? 
    When was she ever pushed aside?! 
    “Did you know that I was rapéd when I was in highschool?” Her voice wavered shakily and I stumbled on my feet, nearly falling to the ground. “Yes. I was molestéd by my private tutor and whenever I tried to tell mum, she always had her head stuck in you. Eventually, I was rapéd by him and decided not to say anything because she wouldn’t even listen to me. And it was all because of you!” Nicole’s body shuddered as she spoke and I remained stuck on a spot, unable to move an inch. “I hatéd you so much. I even wished for you to dié, but when you got into that accidént, I don’t know, I just… Just fell in love with you. I saw you as my baby brother for the first time ever and I knew I loved you even after everything. So, yes, I am sorry, Riccardo.” 
    “You were rapéd?” I barked out. 
    My own sister was molestéd and rapéd against her wish by a f+ckiñg disgústing piece of garbàge and I didn’t know all this while. And I claim to know her?!
    I don’t know her! I don’t know her at all because if I did, I’d know what happened to her. 
    I’m a bàd brother. A bàd husband. A bàd human being. I… I am a mònster. 
    She tearfully nodded. 
    “What’s his name?” 
    “Riccardo, no.” 
    “I asked a question, Nicole.” I snapped, the anger in my body pulsing so hard, the blood could burst out. “What’s his name?”
    “Forget that, please.” Her voice nearly cooled my hot temper down upon seeing her panic-stricken face. “Just look for Olivia. She might be in trouble or some sort.” 
    “After I find Olivia, I’m going to kíll that sorry excuse of a man if he isn’t already déad. And so help me God, he better be.” 
    She nodded. “I’m sorry for telling Jade and I promise, it won’t happen again. I guess, I just wanted you to feel a pinch of pàin I felt and I wasn’t even thinking straight.” 
    “You never think straight though.” I teased and she threw a throw pillow at me. “Nikki, you should have told someone.” 
    “I did. I told my husband and he was the only person who understood me then and even now. I am so sorry, brother.” 
    “It’s enough, Nikki. I’m glad you found your own person, but my own person I found is missing because of what you said.” I said. 
    “I know and I’m really and genuinely sorry. I don’t want Levi to lose his godfather, please.” 
    “That’s impossible.” I stretched open my arms and her tear-filled eyes met mine, confused. “Your baby brother needs a hug, big sis.” 
    More tears streamed down her face as she stepped into my arms, wrapping her hands around me. “Do you forgive me?” 
    “Yes.” 
    Nicole pulled out and wiped her face clean. “Where did you check?” 
    “Axel’s house. Felicity’s house. Her previous apartment. And even, the closest hotels.” 
    “When I didn’t want to be found on some gloomy days, I go to the place no one will ever think of.” 
    That sentence brought my brows to a narrow and I deeply thought about it. My brain waves speeding up. 
    “Do you know anywhere like that for Olivia?” She added. 
    No, I don’t. But I do know where she could have gone, I’m not sure though. She might be there because I once took her there and that is also the place I go to when I needed peace and quiet in past. 
    “You got an idea?” 
    “I think I do.”
    TBC 📖✍️
  • Exclusively Yours – Episode 47

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 47

     

    EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 47


    Subtitle; {Please, Love Me}

               ✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿                                                                                                                    
                                                          
                                 
                                  
    Olivia’s POV 
    I was seated on the bed when Riccardo finally emerged from the bathroom after spending nearly an hour in there. He didn’t even spare me a glance as he entered the walk-in closet, as if actively trying to avoid my gaze. 
    What was wrong? 
    Had I done something to upset him? Was he angry with me? 
    Did he find out that I went to see Axel today? But we only talked, so why wouldn’t he look at me? 
    Swallowing the huge lump in my throat, I cleared it before calling out his name. I looked up at the ceiling, slowly growing upset.
    “I just don’t understand why you won’t even look at me,” I said or maybe snapped when he came out dressed. “Riccardo, what’s wrong? You can talk to me.”
    There was no reply, just the sound of his exhausted sigh filling the room. 
    What had happened at his workplace?
    Standing up from the bed, I stormed toward him, stopping right in front of him. I looked up at him, but he continued to avoid meeting my eyes. “Babe, please look at me. Talk to me, please.”
    “I’m fine.”
    “You don’t look fine.”
    “Baby, I’m just so tired.”
    “Is that why you won’t look at me?”
    Riccardo let out a small groan before his eyes slowly met mine. “I’m looking at you right now.”
    He was looking at me, but what was with the guilt in his eyes? 
    Had he done something he shouldn’t have? What could it be?
    I allowed my eyelids to flutter closed, trying to dispel the rising doubts within me. But it did nothing, if not multiplying it.
    “What happened, Riccardo?” My voice wavered shakily. “What did you do?”
    Panic flickered in his gaze, his fists clenched tight. “What do you mean?”
    “Why are you getting defensive?” I rasped.
    “I don’t know what you’re talking about, Olivia.”
    Olivia again.
    Something had definitely happened at his workplace, but what exactly? 
    Was it something or someone?
    Without hesitation, I blurted out the first thing that came to mind. “Did Asia come? Did something happen between the two of you?”
    “What?” It was his turn to snap, his anger and tension palpable.
    “You heard me,” I said. “Did something happen between you and Asia? Did you do something you shouldn’t have?”
    Riccardo’s gaze shifted from panic to fury, causing me to step back. “And what exactly do you mean by that?”
    “I don’t know, you tell me. You came back home late from work, looking exhausted. You didn’t even want to look at me, and you kept calling me Olivia like I did something wrong.” I exhaled hard, growing frustrated. “I mentioned Asia once, and you got all flared up and defensive as if you were guilty about something. Did you…” The words hesitated on my tongue; I knew they shouldn’t. I knew I should trust him, but he wasn’t helping matters right now.
    “Did I what, Olivia?” He asked, almost as if he knew what I suspected and wanted me to say it aloud.
    “Did you have s+x with Asia?”
    “Olivia!” Riccardo yelled with ràge, frighteñing me. But it wasn’t his outburst that scaréd me the most; it was the way his hand swiftly rose towards my face, causing me to flinch.
    Did… Did he just… Did he raise his hand to hît me?
    A moment later, realization dawned on him, and he clenched his fist before lowering it as I stared at him in utter shock.
    Did he really raise his hand to hît me because I mentioned Asia?
    “Sunshine…”
    I stepped back as his hands reached out to hold me. “Don’t touch me.”
    His fingers tangled in his soft, long hair as he tugged hard, his breath heavy. “Baby, I’m sorry.”
    “For wanting to hît your wife?” I scoffed. “Or for hiding something from her?”
    “You won’t understand,” he muttered.
    What did that mean? 
    What wouldn’t I understand? 
    Why was he acting so strangely?
    “Then make me understand,” I snapped. “Or maybe you just want to hît me, huh?” Stepping towards him, I pushed a hand against his chest. “Come on, hît me. Why did you stop? Go ahead, Riccardo, hît me.”
    “Olivia…” Riccardo called my name again, increasing my annoyance. I pushed my hand against his chest repeatedly, and each time, he murmured my name.
    “You’d better get whatever is wrong with you out because the next time you try that, you won’t like what I will do,” I told him and left him alone in the room.
                                  ✷✷✷✷
    It had been fifty-something hours since Riccardo and I last spoke to each other. The morning after our fight, I didn’t see him before he left, and when he came back, I made sure to be in my own room.
    I am tired, though, and I miss him. I miss him so much even though he was in the same vicinity as me. We were so close yet so far away from each other.
    Maybe I overreacted. Maybe I didn’t. All I can think of right now as I drove to Riccardo’s office was Riccardo.
    Initially, I wanted to wait for him to get back home before talking to him, but something strange kept ringing in my ears to go right away. And who am I to refuse such an impulsive thought?
    “Good morning, Mrs. Torrence.”
    I halted on my feet as the greeting reached my ears. I turned my head to the lady and nodded with a smile.
    I guess no matter what happens, I’ll never get used to that.
    Striding to the elevator, I entered and pushed a button that would take me all the way to Riccardo’s office floor.
    Anxiety started to creep up in my body system, and I wondered what it was. I chewed nervously on my bottom lip as I waited for the elevator to get to its destination.
    And immediately it did, I stepped out and walked straight to Riccardo’s office. Luckily, his secretary slash personal assistant wasn’t around. Even if she was, she didn’t have enough power or authority to stop me.
    Just when I was about to knock, I heard a voice other than Riccardo’s own. A feminine voice, if I may add.
    Jade’s voice, to be precise.
    What is she doing in Riccardo’s office?
    Why did he even let her in?
    Riccardo despíses her. He told me that himself, and I see it in his eyes every time they meet.
    What then could have happened for him to let her into his office?
    No matter how much I searched my head for the answers to my questions, I just couldn’t fathom them. So, I did the next best thing I could do and inched closer to the door to decipher what they were saying.
    “I asked a question, Jade. Why the héck are you here?” Riccardo’s voice was the first one I heard.
    “You look horrible.”
    “Thanks for the observation. Get out.”
    “You can’t talk to me like that, Rick. Remember, I can destroy your and Olivia’s relationship in a snap of my fingers.”
    What?
    Why would she say something like that?
    Is she blackmaíling him with something?
    Is that why he has been acting strange lately?
    Oh my, he could have just told me. We would have solved it together as a couple.
    Wait. But, what is she blackmaíling him with?
    “Do not threatén me, Jade. I’m not in the mood for your nonsensícal bullshít right now. Get out of my sight, please, before I do something dràstic.”
    Jade’s évil laughter erupted so abruptly. “And what, pray tell, will you do, Ricky?”
    “Don’t dare me.”
    “Don’t dare me either.” She snapped. “If I tell Olivia what you did, she wouldn’t hesitate to leave you at once, and you’ll be so shattered and heartbroken.”
    Tell me what?
    What could she tell me that would make me leave him?
    “I thought I told you not to threatén me. You are just saying that. You wouldn’t actually tell Olivia, my wife, anything because if you do, you will have nothing against me.”
    “You sound proud. I don’t like that.”
    “I told you not to touch me, Jade!” Riccardo yelled. “And when have I ever cared what you like or don’t?”
    “You should care because when I tell Olivia that you’re the one who killéd her parents, she is…” Her voice tuned out of my head as I stumbled backward, my lungs ceasing to work.
    Riccardo did what?
    No.
    No.
    It is not possible.
    How could he be responsible for that?
    It doesn’t make any sense. Right?
    “Jade, please just stop all of this. You’ll never get what you want. Olivia loves me.”
    “Not for long, she wouldn’t. She might even file for a divorce.”
    “She wouldn’t.” Riccardo’s voice shuddered. “She can’t. Get out!”
    Before I could think of anything, my body had another idea as it worked on its own and opened the door.
    Two pairs of eyes immediately fixed on me, but my gaze was solely on Riccardo.
    Approaching him slowly, my knees threatening to give way, I inquired, “Is it true?”
    Please, let it not be.
    No, please.
    Deny her words.
    “Of course it is,” Jade interjected sharply.
    “Shut up and leave,” I commanded, repulsion clear on my face. She scowled and exited. Turning back to Riccardo, I implored, “Tell me, my love. It’s not true, is it?”
    Riccardo exhaled uneasily, his head shaking as he struggled to speak. “Sunshine.”
    “Please, assure me it’s false,” I begged, fingers tightening on his arms. “Baby, tell me, please.”
    “It is,” he stated, but I couldn’t process it.
    Surely, he didn’t say what I think he did, right?
    He isn’t the one who shattered my childhood, is he?
    Seeing my disbelief, Riccardo reiterated, “Olivia, it’s true. Jade is right.”
    “Pardon?”
    “Please, spare me from saying it.”
    “Say what?” I’d feign ignorance or disbelief if needed to avoid accepting it.
    I refuse to believe the man I love took my parents from me.
    “Fine, Olivia,” he sighed wearily. “I caused the accídent that took your parents’ lives. It wasn’t a hit-and-run; it was me. I’m sorry.”
    I was mistaken. We can’t address this as a couple.
    Are we even together?
    This marriage is a sham—a damn charade. It’s not genuine.
    “Sunshine, I’m deeply sorry. I recently learned the truth and wanted to confess. I feared your reaction, exactly as it is now.”
    Sunshine?
    That name now tastes bitterly unpleasant in my ears.
    Without a second thought, I spun around and fled from his office and his presence.
    I’m unsure of my destination, but I know I can’t face Riccardo at this moment.
    Jade… How did she uncover this?
    TBC 📖✍️
    Well, that was quick, wasn’t it? 
    What will happen now? 🤔🤔
  • Exclusively Yours – Episode 47

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 47

     

    EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 47


    Subtitle; {Please, Love Me}

               ✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿                                                                                                                    
                                                          
                                 
                                  
    Olivia’s POV 
    I was seated on the bed when Riccardo finally emerged from the bathroom after spending nearly an hour in there. He didn’t even spare me a glance as he entered the walk-in closet, as if actively trying to avoid my gaze. 
    What was wrong? 
    Had I done something to upset him? Was he angry with me? 
    Did he find out that I went to see Axel today? But we only talked, so why wouldn’t he look at me? 
    Swallowing the huge lump in my throat, I cleared it before calling out his name. I looked up at the ceiling, slowly growing upset.
    “I just don’t understand why you won’t even look at me,” I said or maybe snapped when he came out dressed. “Riccardo, what’s wrong? You can talk to me.”
    There was no reply, just the sound of his exhausted sigh filling the room. 
    What had happened at his workplace?
    Standing up from the bed, I stormed toward him, stopping right in front of him. I looked up at him, but he continued to avoid meeting my eyes. “Babe, please look at me. Talk to me, please.”
    “I’m fine.”
    “You don’t look fine.”
    “Baby, I’m just so tired.”
    “Is that why you won’t look at me?”
    Riccardo let out a small groan before his eyes slowly met mine. “I’m looking at you right now.”
    He was looking at me, but what was with the guilt in his eyes? 
    Had he done something he shouldn’t have? What could it be?
    I allowed my eyelids to flutter closed, trying to dispel the rising doubts within me. But it did nothing, if not multiplying it.
    “What happened, Riccardo?” My voice wavered shakily. “What did you do?”
    Panic flickered in his gaze, his fists clenched tight. “What do you mean?”
    “Why are you getting defensive?” I rasped.
    “I don’t know what you’re talking about, Olivia.”
    Olivia again.
    Something had definitely happened at his workplace, but what exactly? 
    Was it something or someone?
    Without hesitation, I blurted out the first thing that came to mind. “Did Asia come? Did something happen between the two of you?”
    “What?” It was his turn to snap, his anger and tension palpable.
    “You heard me,” I said. “Did something happen between you and Asia? Did you do something you shouldn’t have?”
    Riccardo’s gaze shifted from panic to fury, causing me to step back. “And what exactly do you mean by that?”
    “I don’t know, you tell me. You came back home late from work, looking exhausted. You didn’t even want to look at me, and you kept calling me Olivia like I did something wrong.” I exhaled hard, growing frustrated. “I mentioned Asia once, and you got all flared up and defensive as if you were guilty about something. Did you…” The words hesitated on my tongue; I knew they shouldn’t. I knew I should trust him, but he wasn’t helping matters right now.
    “Did I what, Olivia?” He asked, almost as if he knew what I suspected and wanted me to say it aloud.
    “Did you have s+x with Asia?”
    “Olivia!” Riccardo yelled with ràge, frighteñing me. But it wasn’t his outburst that scaréd me the most; it was the way his hand swiftly rose towards my face, causing me to flinch.
    Did… Did he just… Did he raise his hand to hît me?
    A moment later, realization dawned on him, and he clenched his fist before lowering it as I stared at him in utter shock.
    Did he really raise his hand to hît me because I mentioned Asia?
    “Sunshine…”
    I stepped back as his hands reached out to hold me. “Don’t touch me.”
    His fingers tangled in his soft, long hair as he tugged hard, his breath heavy. “Baby, I’m sorry.”
    “For wanting to hît your wife?” I scoffed. “Or for hiding something from her?”
    “You won’t understand,” he muttered.
    What did that mean? 
    What wouldn’t I understand? 
    Why was he acting so strangely?
    “Then make me understand,” I snapped. “Or maybe you just want to hît me, huh?” Stepping towards him, I pushed a hand against his chest. “Come on, hît me. Why did you stop? Go ahead, Riccardo, hît me.”
    “Olivia…” Riccardo called my name again, increasing my annoyance. I pushed my hand against his chest repeatedly, and each time, he murmured my name.
    “You’d better get whatever is wrong with you out because the next time you try that, you won’t like what I will do,” I told him and left him alone in the room.
                                  ✷✷✷✷
    It had been fifty-something hours since Riccardo and I last spoke to each other. The morning after our fight, I didn’t see him before he left, and when he came back, I made sure to be in my own room.
    I am tired, though, and I miss him. I miss him so much even though he was in the same vicinity as me. We were so close yet so far away from each other.
    Maybe I overreacted. Maybe I didn’t. All I can think of right now as I drove to Riccardo’s office was Riccardo.
    Initially, I wanted to wait for him to get back home before talking to him, but something strange kept ringing in my ears to go right away. And who am I to refuse such an impulsive thought?
    “Good morning, Mrs. Torrence.”
    I halted on my feet as the greeting reached my ears. I turned my head to the lady and nodded with a smile.
    I guess no matter what happens, I’ll never get used to that.
    Striding to the elevator, I entered and pushed a button that would take me all the way to Riccardo’s office floor.
    Anxiety started to creep up in my body system, and I wondered what it was. I chewed nervously on my bottom lip as I waited for the elevator to get to its destination.
    And immediately it did, I stepped out and walked straight to Riccardo’s office. Luckily, his secretary slash personal assistant wasn’t around. Even if she was, she didn’t have enough power or authority to stop me.
    Just when I was about to knock, I heard a voice other than Riccardo’s own. A feminine voice, if I may add.
    Jade’s voice, to be precise.
    What is she doing in Riccardo’s office?
    Why did he even let her in?
    Riccardo despíses her. He told me that himself, and I see it in his eyes every time they meet.
    What then could have happened for him to let her into his office?
    No matter how much I searched my head for the answers to my questions, I just couldn’t fathom them. So, I did the next best thing I could do and inched closer to the door to decipher what they were saying.
    “I asked a question, Jade. Why the héck are you here?” Riccardo’s voice was the first one I heard.
    “You look horrible.”
    “Thanks for the observation. Get out.”
    “You can’t talk to me like that, Rick. Remember, I can destroy your and Olivia’s relationship in a snap of my fingers.”
    What?
    Why would she say something like that?
    Is she blackmaíling him with something?
    Is that why he has been acting strange lately?
    Oh my, he could have just told me. We would have solved it together as a couple.
    Wait. But, what is she blackmaíling him with?
    “Do not threatén me, Jade. I’m not in the mood for your nonsensícal bullshít right now. Get out of my sight, please, before I do something dràstic.”
    Jade’s évil laughter erupted so abruptly. “And what, pray tell, will you do, Ricky?”
    “Don’t dare me.”
    “Don’t dare me either.” She snapped. “If I tell Olivia what you did, she wouldn’t hesitate to leave you at once, and you’ll be so shattered and heartbroken.”
    Tell me what?
    What could she tell me that would make me leave him?
    “I thought I told you not to threatén me. You are just saying that. You wouldn’t actually tell Olivia, my wife, anything because if you do, you will have nothing against me.”
    “You sound proud. I don’t like that.”
    “I told you not to touch me, Jade!” Riccardo yelled. “And when have I ever cared what you like or don’t?”
    “You should care because when I tell Olivia that you’re the one who killéd her parents, she is…” Her voice tuned out of my head as I stumbled backward, my lungs ceasing to work.
    Riccardo did what?
    No.
    No.
    It is not possible.
    How could he be responsible for that?
    It doesn’t make any sense. Right?
    “Jade, please just stop all of this. You’ll never get what you want. Olivia loves me.”
    “Not for long, she wouldn’t. She might even file for a divorce.”
    “She wouldn’t.” Riccardo’s voice shuddered. “She can’t. Get out!”
    Before I could think of anything, my body had another idea as it worked on its own and opened the door.
    Two pairs of eyes immediately fixed on me, but my gaze was solely on Riccardo.
    Approaching him slowly, my knees threatening to give way, I inquired, “Is it true?”
    Please, let it not be.
    No, please.
    Deny her words.
    “Of course it is,” Jade interjected sharply.
    “Shut up and leave,” I commanded, repulsion clear on my face. She scowled and exited. Turning back to Riccardo, I implored, “Tell me, my love. It’s not true, is it?”
    Riccardo exhaled uneasily, his head shaking as he struggled to speak. “Sunshine.”
    “Please, assure me it’s false,” I begged, fingers tightening on his arms. “Baby, tell me, please.”
    “It is,” he stated, but I couldn’t process it.
    Surely, he didn’t say what I think he did, right?
    He isn’t the one who shattered my childhood, is he?
    Seeing my disbelief, Riccardo reiterated, “Olivia, it’s true. Jade is right.”
    “Pardon?”
    “Please, spare me from saying it.”
    “Say what?” I’d feign ignorance or disbelief if needed to avoid accepting it.
    I refuse to believe the man I love took my parents from me.
    “Fine, Olivia,” he sighed wearily. “I caused the accídent that took your parents’ lives. It wasn’t a hit-and-run; it was me. I’m sorry.”
    I was mistaken. We can’t address this as a couple.
    Are we even together?
    This marriage is a sham—a damn charade. It’s not genuine.
    “Sunshine, I’m deeply sorry. I recently learned the truth and wanted to confess. I feared your reaction, exactly as it is now.”
    Sunshine?
    That name now tastes bitterly unpleasant in my ears.
    Without a second thought, I spun around and fled from his office and his presence.
    I’m unsure of my destination, but I know I can’t face Riccardo at this moment.
    Jade… How did she uncover this?
    TBC 📖✍️
    Well, that was quick, wasn’t it? 
    What will happen now? 🤔🤔
  • Exclusively Yours – Episode 46

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 46

     

    EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 46


    Subtitle; {Please, Love Me}

               ✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿                                                                                                                    
                                 
                                  
                                  
    Riccardo’s POV 
    “Mother, I beseech you to answer my query with unwavering candor. Are you capable of such honesty?” I mustered the composure in my voice, devoid of any intentions to instill fear.
    My mother slowly acquiesced, her gaze locked onto mine, unwavering.
    “What transpired during my fourteenth year?”
    Instantly, her countenance shifted from tranquility to a restlessness that took hold. A creeping terror began to consume me, despite my prior resolve to not entirely believe Jade’s claims.
    “Mum?” I called out.
    “My dearest, you…” my mother’s voice trailed off.
    “I implore you, do not offer me any excuses. Be sincere with me, please,” I pleaded, tears welling up in my eyes as I closed them, hoping to alleviate the pounding of my heart. “Just tell me, I beg of you.”
    “You… were involved in an accídent, my precious,” she confessed.
    “And?” I pressed.
    “The accídent took the lives of a married couple. When you emerged from your coma, your memory of the incident had been eradicated. Your father and I made a conscious decision not to reintroduce or inform you of these events.”
    A scoff escaped my mouth as I laughed hysterically. “Really? What happened to the couple?”
    “They diéd,” she replied. “We did it for you, my love.”
    “No. Don’t you dare say that!” I yelled, tugging hard on my hair, nearly ripping it out of my scalp. “Don’t touch me!”
    My mother flinched, and I almost felt bad. “Riccardo, please listen…” Her hands moved in an attempt to touch me again, and I stepped back.
    “No. I’m a kíller. I killéd Olivia’s parents. Those people were Olivia’s parents.”
    It was slow, but the realization dawned on her face, and her mouth dropped. “Anastasia and Jeremy Donovan are Olivia’s parents?”
    Olivia will never forgive me.
    What if she decides to leave me?
    What if she hatés me forever?
    What if she doesn’t look at me the same way?
    I made a pathetic attempt to inhale some oxygen I was quickly losing in my lungs, but no air entered. My head started to spin, and fatigue slowly enveloped me.
    “You’re shaking, Riccardo.”
    Am I?
    Looking down at my hands, I noticed they were truly shuddering. My whole body started trembling, and more breath left me.
    “Mum, I will díe if Olivia hatés me.” The words left my mouth with great difficulty. “M-mum, Olivia can’t hàte me.”
    My mother gripped my forearm tightly, forcibly making me face her. “Please, calm down and breathe slowly.”
    I can’t.
    I can’t breathe.
    “If Olivia hatés you when you tell her the truth, then she isn’t the one for you,” she dared to say, and I jerked myself away from her.
    Does she know how much effort and time I put into making Olivia finally love me?
    Does she know what has gone into making Olivia mine?
    She doesn’t, and she will never know.
    “I can’t believe you right now, Mum. I killéd people, whether it was a mistake or not, it happened, and unfortunately, they were my wife’s parents. If Olivia hatés me, she has every right to,” I said, disappointedly, shaking my head. “You did a terríble thing, and you should be ashamed of yourself.”
    With nothing more to say, I walked out of the house, ignoring her frantic calls. Getting into my car, I zoomed off, not sure where I’m headed.
    All I know is that my life is about to turn upside down with this news. Everything is ruinéd. Completely and utterly shattered.
    How will I look at Olivia when I get home?
    How can I look into her eyes and tell her that I am the one responsible for ruíning her childhood?
    It is because of me that she has nightmares. I’m the reason she can’t sleep at night when it rains. It is all my fault.
    Why didn’t I just díe with them?
    At least, I wouldn’t have grown up and found solace in Olivia’s arms. I wouldn’t have even met her. She would have been okay without me in her life.
    But, unfortunately, I’m already in her life and will soon be out when she finds out. How will I survive without her in my life?
                                  ✷✷✷✷
    Olivia’s POV
    Glancing up from the screen of my laptop, I looked at Riccardo as he entered the house with slow and cautious steps, as if he were trying not to make any noise.
    It is currently past nine in the evening, and he should have arrived earlier, but I understand he’s busy with work.
    “Babe, are you okay?” I asked, cradling his face. His eyes were red with exhaustion and something else. “You don’t look fine.”
    “I’m fine, Olivia.”
    Olivia?
    Did… Did I do something?
    Just as I was still recovering from the shock, he surprised me again by removing my hands from his face.
    “Did something happen at work?” I asked again, stepping forward to meet his eyes. “What is wrong with you? Can you please talk to me?”
    “Olivia, I don’t want to talk, please,” Riccardo snapped angrily, causing me to flinch and stumble back startled. “Please, just let me be for just one second.”
    “Aren’t you going to eat dinner?” I inquired, stopping him midway as he strode to the stairs. “I ordered something in case you were hungry when you got home.”
    He spun to face me again, the tiredness increasingly evident in his eyes. “I am not hungry, Sunshine. Please, just give me a second.”
    “If something is bothering you, you can tell me. I’m here for you, I promise.”
    “Are you?”
    I nodded.
    “Will you still want to be with me if you find out the darkést secret of my life?” 
    Without hesitation, I nodded affirmatively, determined to stand by this man through thick and thin. I love him wholeheartedly and cannot bear the thought of losing him. 
    “What if I tell you that I ki—” Riccardo’s voice trailed off as he shook his head, his expression troubled. With a pained whimper, he left me alone in the living room, climbing up the stairs. 
    As I watched him go, confusion and a tinge of húrt lingered in my heart. I wondered what was troubling him so deeply. 
    He appeared weighed down by an immense burden, and I hoped he would eventually confide in me. Together, we would face whatever it was… at least, I hoped we could.
    TBC 📖✍️
  • Exclusively Yours – Episode 42

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 42

      

    EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 42


    Subtitle; {Please, Love Me}

               ✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿                                                                                                                    
                                  
    Riccardo’s POV
    Today has been nothing short of exhausting. With so many projects to complete and more pouring in, I had little to no time on my hands.
    Being the youngest and most recommended architect in the world has its perks, and this was one of them. In fact, I am scheduled to travel out of America in two days for the project in China. My hands have to be on deck…or should I say, the table at all times.
    Notwithstanding that, I had a wife who just began working again after weeks of not doing so, and I had to see or talk to her. Pushing away the blueprints and other papers on my desk, I picked up my phone and tapped on Olivia’s name—Sunshine—which is always on speed dial.
    It took a little over two minutes for her to answer my call, and as soon as she did, I chimed like a little girl, “How are you enjoying your day?”
    Rattled or more forced breaths reached my ears, causing my brows to narrow as panic slowly began to seep into my body.
    I abruptly stood up from my seat, holding onto the phone like it’s my lifeline. “Sunshine, are you okay?”
    “N-no, I’m stuck.” Her sweet voice finally hit my ears, but it only sounded strained, like she was using everything in her to talk.
    Stuck?
    Where?
    Lifting my hand to push back the stubborn strands of my hair that fell on my face, I changed the phone to the other ear. “Where are you?”
    “I-I-,” more and more forced breaths escaped from her. “I don’t re-rem-remember.”
    I grabbed my car keys and my coat and dashed out of my office. My PA’s inquiries went on deaf ears as I hurried to the parking lot for my car. Immediately, I reached it, I climbed in. “Sunshine, turn on your location, please.”
    Please, be fine.
    Please, be fine.
    Please, be fine.
    “D-done.” She replied. “W-what are you going to d-do?”
    “I am coming for you.” Igniting the car back to life, I stepped on the accelerator and zoomed out. “Where exactly are you?”
    “My car.”
    “You can’t unlock it?”
    “Yes.”
    “Why are your breaths short?”
    “I don’t know why, but gases are filling my car. I can’t breathe.” She stuttered, with more unsteady and strained breaths from her.
    Gas?
    How?
    What could have possibly happened?
    “I’m coming, Sunshine. Turn off the AC.”
    “I’ve done that.”
    “Try opening the windows.”
    “It isn’t budging.”
    “For how long have you been stuck?”
    “A couple of minutes.”
    “And you didn’t think to call me?” I snapped. “Sorry. Sorry. Didn’t mean to yell.” I quickly added.
    I am so stupid for even snapping at her in the first place. She is in a life-threaténing situation, and of course, she might have tried to save herself even before I called her. I’m just too panicky to think before acting.
    After driving for about fifteen minutes, I came to a stop upon seeing her car awkwardly parked. Throwing open my car door, I jumped down with a hammer and ran towards her car.
    “Olivia,” I uttered into my phone. Her reply didn’t come through, and that sent a whole new surge of terror through my veins. “Sunshine?”
    Oh God, why isn’t she answering?
    “Sunshine, please say something. Anything at all.” I pleaded, knocking on the window. Her low exhale reached my ears again, and I started knocking rapidly. “Olivia, if you can hear me, protect your head.”
    A few more seconds passed, and I hít the hammer on the window, shattering it in the process. I repeated the action a few more times before finally achieving my goal of breaking all of the glass.
    Reaching my hand through the broken window, I wasted no time in unlocking it and dragging her out. Carrying her limp body in my arms in a bridal style, I strode to my car and put her in the passenger seat. Just when I got into the driver’s seat, her car went up in red misty flames.
                                       ✿✿✿✿
    “Mr. Torrence, can I please talk to you in my office?” The Southeast Asian female doctor asked in quiet empathy.
    I gave her a little nod and followed her to her office. As soon as we got there, she pushed open the door and went to sit at her desk, gesturing for me to sit too.
    A scoff emitted from my mouth even before I could hold it in. Placing my palms on her sparkly white desk, I leaned in to make sure my eyes were piercing deep into her already terrified ones. “Do you think I came in here to wine and dine with you? Tell me, what happened to my wife?” 
    “Mr Torrence…” 
    “Go straight to the point, Mrs. As you can see, I am not in the mood to be joked with. How is my wife?” 
    “Mrs Torrence inhaled way too much of the gas and slipped into a coma. We tried all we could but we are still unable to bring her back. The gas is also unnameable and very tóxic.” 
    No. 
    Olivia isn’t in a coma. 
    She is fine. 
    She said we will have a dinner date tonight so how can she not be fine? 
    “Your wife will be fine if under observation for a few days—” 
    “A few days?!” All héll broke loose and I yelled, startling her. “You expect me to leave my wife in that ICU for a few days, huh?”
    Her professional face never slipping even for a second as she rose to her feet. “We tried our best to make sure that she didn’t slip into a coma, but—” 
    “No buts! Your best is obviously not good enough.” I snapped. “I brought my wife in here alive and breathing and if I don’t take her back alive and breathing, I swear to God, I’ll búrn this hospital down with everyone in it. I will do it without a second thought.” 
    “Sir, you can’t threatén us.” Her voice firm and still annoyingly professional. 
    Another scoff broke out from my lips and I felt a smirk setting on my face. “You thinking it’s a threàt is nothing if not hilarious. Get your stúpid white coat, walk back to my wife and do what you have to do.” 
    I guess she saw the seriousness in my eyes because she nodded wordlessly and walked out, leaving me in her stupid office. 
    ••
    Slowly, oh so slowly, seconds turned to minutes and minutes turned to hours and yet, the doctors have still told me nothing about Olivia. 
    A light tap on my shoulder caused me to turn away from the ICU. My eyes met Asia’s brown ones and a small smile pulled up on my face.
    I might have called her an hour ago to keep me company if not I’d have done something really crazy. I also called Felicity, but she said she was out of town. 
    “I brought coffee.” She murmured under her breath, a sad grimace on her face. 
    Letting out a heavy exhale, I shook my head. I can’t eat or drink anything until I have Olivia back in my arms, laughing and talking normally to me. 
    Asia stepped in front of me, stretching out the paper cup of coffee like I didn’t just refuse it. Her voice came out pleading, “you have to take something, Rick. You said you haven’t had anything but breakfast. At least, just drink the coffee.” 
    “I don’t want it.” I shook my head again, threw my head back to rest on the wall. “Have you ever felt like there’s a big, strong wall separating you from the one you love?” 
    For a minute, I thought my question went unheard, but she proved me wrong when her reply came out lower than ever. 
    “Yes.” 
    “And, what did you do to that wall?” I asked again. 
    “Something childish.” 
    A little chuckle escaped my lips and I stared at her, staring back at me with an equally little grin. “Like what?” 
    “Never mind.” 
    “Would you like to get ríd of it completely?” 
    “Yes.” 
    “If you can, what would you do?” 
    Another beat passed and I had to look at her to see if my question went over her head. Her lips twitched as she appeared to ponder on it. “Honestly…I won’t do anything. If the one I love don’t love me back, why do anything?” 
    Turning to face her completely, I took hold of her forearm and her eyes flicked to mine. “Whoever that person is must be very stúpid not to love a wonderful person like you. Any guy would be more than lucky to have you in their life as a life partner.” 
    “And you?” Her question came with a little crack in her voice. “Will you be lucky to have me in your life as your life partner?” 
    “I am already married to the most beautiful and intelligent woman in the world, it would be gréedy and stúpid to look elsewhere.” I replied, squeezing her arms to give or take assurance, I don’t know. 
    Her chocolate brown eyes watered and she sniffed, forcing a smile on her lips but it wavered. “Olivia is the lucky one, really for having someone like you so in love with her you can’t see any other woman but her. Why is she so lucky?” 
    “I’m the lucky one for having Olivia in my life.” I disagreed with her. 
    She shook her head, also not agreeing with me. “No, she is. You should give yourself some well-deserved credit as well.” 
    I opened my mouth to say something but when Asia jutted her head at something or someone at my back, I frowned and spun around. 
    “Your wife is finally out of the coma and is asking for you.” The same doctor said in relief, beaming a stupídly professional smile at me. “You can go see her.” 
    Stepping into the ICU, my steps faltered when my gaze stopped at a pale body hooked with the oxygen mask. 
    My Olivia. 
    I trailed a shaky fingers through her hair and her face and her eyes fluttered open. Her caramel brown eyes finally met mine after hours of not doing so and the tears I have held in finally dropped. 
    “You’re so mean, you know that, right? How dare you try to play that silly prank on me after promising me a date? That is so not fair.” My voice shaky and breathy scolded her and her lips lifted her in a smile under the mask. 
    “Are you still going to búrn down this hospital?” She muttered. 
    “Well, not anymore.” 
    “Good.” 
    “Good.” 
    “Can I have a hug?” 
    “Of course.” I lowered myself to wrap my arms securely around her cold body and when I placed a light kiss on top of her head, we both let out sigh of deep relief. 
    “I love you.” Olivia susurranted, her voice soft with affection and soothing to the soul effectually stopping my world.
    TBC 📖✍️
  • Exclusively Yours – Episode 38

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 38

         

    EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 38


    Subtitle; {Please, Love Me}

               ✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿                                                                                                                     
                                  
    Olivia’s POV
    “Do you want to go to bed?” The loud downpour on the ceiling nearly drowned out Riccardo’s question from reaching my ears. 
    I gazed down at him, his head resting comfortably on my lap. Our eyes met—his searching for answers in mine, while I struggled not to break down in front of him—in a tense moment.
    About thirty minutes earlier, he had asked me the same question, to which I had responded negatively. So, we decided to watch a movie to ease the tension in the air. However, the sound of the rain persisted, and Riccardo’s presence felt all-consuming, overwhelming even.
    His head suddenly dropped on my shoulder, catching me off guard. After a moment’s hesitation, I began massaging his scalp as he requested. It was during this that he posed his latest question. I shook my head, focusing on the laptop screen, trying to distract myself from both his probing gaze and the persistent storm outside.
    I held onto a faint hope that the rain would soon cease, but the thunder continued unabated. Riccardo sat up, and I moved slightly away from him. “You’re shivering. Do you want another blanket?”
    “I am—”
    “If you claim you’re fine when it’s clear you’re not, I’ll be really upset. Don’t push me,” he interjected.
    My gaze wandered before meeting his dark eyes, filled with anger, concern, and understanding all at once. I felt a shiver run down my spine, my heart pounding erratically.
    My mouth opened involuntarily, and the truth spilled out, “I’m not fine.”
    “That’s okay,” he murmured, almost as if there were others present.
    Is it really okay not to be fine?
    “No, it’s not okay; it’s absurd,” I whispered back, almost softer than him. “I mean, who can’t handle a little rain at night? Most people find it soothing and sleep better, but for me, it brings nightmares and memories I can’t shake.”
    Riccardo moved closer, his eyes torn between curiosity and concern.
    Tears welled up, cascading down my cheeks. “I hàte this. I hàte my life. I hàte…I hàte myself. I hàte everything.”
    “How can you hàte yourself?” he asked, genuinely surprised. “You’re perfect. So perfect that it makes me wonder how and why.”
    No, I’m not perfect. I’m foólish to be so affected by a simple rainy night.
    “I lost my parents on a night like this,” another truth slipped out before I could stop it. Instead of feeling embarrassed, I felt… relieved? “It was a dark, cold night with a fierce storm destróying the neighborhood.”
    Something flickered in his eyes, disappearing as quickly as it came.
    “I was alone at home. They promised to return for movie night but never did. They…they left me alone and never came back.” As tears flowed, Riccardo wiped them away before I could. “They didn’t even argue. It was like I meant nothing to them. They didn’t fíght for the family or for me; they just…they just left.”
    “Sunshine, they didn’t know what would happen. It’s not their fault. Anyone who has you in their life wouldn’t want it any other way.”
    No, they could have fought harder to survive, even if just one of them did. I was a child who needed her parents, but they left so easily.
    Shaking my head, I continued, “Do you know who broke the news? A policeman. A dàmn policeman told a nine-year-old that her parents were deád.” I let out a bitter laugh, remembering the indifference in his eyes—I could never forget them.
    “And then?”
    I met his gaze, as if we hadn’t just been staring at each other moments ago. “After the police left, I stayed alone in the big house. My parents were successful, and we lived in a mansion. It was so dark that I couldn’t even see my shadow. Lighting candles with trembling hands was futile; the breeze extinguished them each time, almost mocking me.” Tears flowed freely as I recounted that fateful day, still etched deep in my heart.
    My vision blurred with tears, but I could see Riccardo looking at me with everything but pity, causing a lump to form in my throat.
    “I lay alone in the living room with the thunder and lightning roaring outside, the obnoxiously loud rain beating hard on the roof of the house. I was alone and felt abandoned. They had left me, reneging on their promise of a family movie night, something we always did. They had even promised to take me to Switzerland for Christmas that year, along with many other unfulfilled promises. After that day, Aunt DeeDee came over to take me, and I ran away not out of dislike for her but because my heart and body impelled me to. I ran all the way to the farthest beach, now off-limits due to being shark-infested and perilous, yearning to reunite with them, to be enveloped in their arms. I don’t know how long I stood gazing at the water, only that I stood so long my legs numbed, and I collapsed, unconscious. Aunt DeeDee’s husband found me and escorted me back to her.”
    Another hiccup. More tears. And more tears until I was whimpering and stuttering incoherent words, but Riccardo remained silent, a comforting presence.
    He wasn’t one to offer solace but to stand by me as I wept. He seemed to understand the cathartic release of crying until one’s heart was content.
    “I…I miss them so much it húrts terribly. But, I find solace in this paín because it signifies my enduring love for them. They were and still are my greatest inspiration to navigate this daunting world.”
    “Well, I must thank them for raising such a beautiful and intelligent young lady whom I will cherish until my last breath,” Riccardo whispered, his large hands enveloping mine, his thumb caressing my hand. “You, my Sunshine, are a resilient individual. Many would have shattered into irreparable pieces, but not you. You endured.”
    I couldn’t allow my aspirations to crumble because my life had been upended. Yes, my parents perished in a hit-and-run, but I refused to let that define me.
    After swallowing the lump in my throat, I met his gaze. “Who said I didn’t break down?”
    A faint smile played on Riccardo’s lips as he lifted my face to meet his gaze. “Because you are here with me, a prominent figure in the world of Editors. When Olivia Donovan is mentioned, authors seek your collaboration. That, Sunshine, is not succumbing to despair.”
    “Olivia Donovan? I thought it was Olivia Torrence,” I quipped, eliciting a chuckle from him.
    “It can be whatever you wish, my love. All I want is for you to know that I am here for you, willing to support you in every way. I want to share your laughter and your tears, to be the shoulder you lean on.”
    The warmth of his touch spread through me, his words a balm to my wounded heart. “I love you immensely, regardless of whether it’s deemed obséssion, infatuàtion, or love. Yes, I am captivated by you. Yes, I am infatuàted.”
    With each word, he nodded in affirmation, his eyes locking onto mine. “Though we may only have two years together, I genuinely want to be your confidant, your friend. Will you allow me?”
    Before I could resist, I closed the gap between us, letting a tender kiss linger on his lips. He didn’t flinch or retreat; it was as though he had anticipated my action.
    “Is that a yes?” he drawled out.
    I nodded, unwilling to betray my emotions with my hoarse voice.
    “Friends don’t usually kiss, you know,” he teased.
    “They don’t? I had no idea.”
    “Yes, Sunshine, they don’t kiss.”
    “Well, lucky for me, you’re my husband.”
    “I am, aren’t I?”
    “Yes,” I affirmed.
    “I consider myself the luckiest man alive because you are mine.”
    But why did I feel like the fortunate one?
    “Riccardo…” My heart raced, the unspoken words clamoring to be voiced.
    “Yes?”
    I…I think…I like you.
    Instead of admitting my feelings, I shook my head. “Never mind.”
    He let it go, but the furrow in his brow and the question in his eyes were unmistakable. “Alright. I love you.”
    “I know.”
    “Good.” He rose, planting a lingering kiss on my forehead before pecking my cheek. “I’ll get you some water.”
    “Thank you,” I replied.
    Riccardo nodded, kissing the top of my head before heading to the kitchen.
    I felt liberated now that I had shared my feelings with him. Despite knowing of my tumultuous past, he regarded me as though I were a heavenly angel who had descended to earth.
    After finishing the water, Riccardo enveloped me
    After finishing the glass of water, Riccardo enveloped me in a cocoon of comfort as we lay on the sofa. Well, he was laying down and he pulled me to lay on him.
    “I weigh like—”
    “A feather,” he interrupted, pulling me even closer to him.
    “Can I ask you a question?”
    “You already did, but sure, go ahead.”
    I shifted on his body so our eyes met, and I asked, “How many girlfriends have you had?”
    “None,” he answered without hesitation.
    That’s not possible. How can he be so caring and tender if he has never had a girlfriend?
    “You’re kidding me, right?”
    He shook his head. “I never felt the need to be in a relationship or have girlfriends; I was focused on school and other things.”
    “Other things, like what?”
    “Things like how I was going to make the girl who was dancing in the nightclub mine forever and always,” Riccardo added.
    A smile crept up on my face as I realized he was talking about me.
    He is mine.
    The guy beneath me is mine, just as I am his.
    “Any more questions, my lady?”
    “Not right now, but tell me about your family in the meantime.”
    “Aww, interested in your husband’s family?” he teased.
    “No, of course not. I’m just bored, you know.”
    “Sure,” he teased back. “Well, you already know about my nuclear family; my dad, mom, and older sister. What else would you like to know?”
    “Where did you study?”
    “New Zealand.”
    “Since when did you discover your talent for drawing houses?”
    “Thirteen. I was thirteen.”
    “That’s impressive. What was your first project?”
    “One of my dad’s branches. I charged him a lot,” he laughed.
    He looks so handsome when he laughs. I wish he would do it more often.
    “Isn’t that like a crime?” I teased.
    “Not when he’s your father,” he replied.
    “Your first car?”
    “BMW.”
    I almost jumped off him in surprise. “What?”
    “Yeah, your father-in-law is rich.”
    Father-in-law?
    I like the sound of that.
    No, I do not like the sound of that.
    Shutting off my wandering thoughts, I said, “My first car was a Toyota Camry.”
    “I know.”
    “Creepy but okay.”
    Riccardo chuckled, as every single sound, including the vehement rain hitting the roof every now and then, instantly vanished, leaving only the rich sound of his laughter enveloping me in unexplained tranquility, along with the steady beat of his heart.
    He looked unapologetically handsome in every charming way possible. His black, dark orbs fixed solely on me, as if delving deep into my soul, mind, and perhaps my heart.
    Butterflies hatched in my tummy, their wings fluttering unsteadily. I nervously took my lower lip between my teeth, trying to shield myself from seeing the immense love in his eyes.
    Why does he continue to love me even after I’ve shared everything with him?
    He shouldn’t love me anymore. I’m far from the perfect girl he seems to believe I am.
    Most importantly, why do I trust him enough to confide in him things I’ve never told anyone, not even my best friends?
    “What’s going on in that pretty little head of yours, Sunshine?” His voice cut through my thoughts, momentarily halting them.
    “Nothing,” I murmured, knowing I didn’t sound convincing even to myself.
    Riccardo’s eyes narrowed, observing me closely, and a sudden urge to shrink away engulfed me. I waited for him to speak, but all he did was hum softly.
    “What does that mean?”
    “Nothing,” he replied in a breathy voice, mirroring mine.
    A$shóle.
    Unfortunately for me, and perhaps fortunately for him, I’m beginning to like him much more than before.
    “What? You’re glaring.”
    “That’s because you deserve it,” I said, delivering a firm slap to his chest, which only elicited another chuckle from him.
    “I do, don’t I?” he queried, to which I nodded. “Kiss me.”
    Instinctively, my gaze shifted from his captivating orbs to his full, plump lips, and I nervously gulped. After a moment of silence, I leaned in closer until our breaths mingled without our lips touching. I felt his heart quicken beneath my palm on his chest, as he waited for me to bridge the gap between us, his eyes torn between mine and my lips.
    Finally, I decided to end the tortúre for both of us, brushing my lips lightly against his. Riccardo gasped, as if not anticipating it, his grip on my hips tightening.
    “Don’t tease me, Sunshine.”
    “I rather enjoy teasing you,” I whispered in his ear, eliciting a grunt from him. Taking his earlobe into my mouth, I sucked on it gently. “How else would I evoke this reaction from you?”
    “Olivia,” his voice deep and hoarse, conveyed a warning that only made me smile.
    “What?” I asked innocently, moving my mouth to the crook of his neck before placing a gentle kiss there.
    “Oliv—” he began, before I interrupted by sucking and biting down on that spot. A mixture of a grunt, groan, and whimper escaped his lips, his breaths growing heavy.
    Facing him again, our lips met in a desperate union. Riccardo wasted no time in claiming my lips in a hot, fierce kiss, leaving me disoriented from the change in dynamics moments ago.
    In the blink of an eye, he spun us around, and I found myself lying beneath him. The intense makeout session transitioned into a slow yet passionate dance of our lips. Our tongues intertwined, tasting each other; a fusion of fruity and minty in a languid tango.
    Riccardo slowly pulled away from my lips, causing me to nearly whimper. “You look so beautiful beneath me.”
    I swallowed, savoring the taste of both of us. “I do?”
    “Yes,” he confirmed.
    “And how do I look on top of you?”
    “Pretty.”
    “And if I’m neither beneath nor on top of you, then how do I look?”
    His palm cradled my face as he pecked the corner of my lips. “Stunning. Exquisite. Ravishing. God, I love you so much.”
    “You know, I’m starting to doubt that I’m the first girl you’ve been with.”
    How does he always have such intoxicating words on the tip of his tongue?
    “But you are,” Riccardo murmured, peppering kisses all over my face. “I am so in love with you that I’m certain I can’t live without you.”
    Oh no. If he looks at me like that, I might have no choice but to love him back.
    The question remains: Have I already fallen for him and am refusing to admit it due to my stubbornness?
    Oh no!
    This is bàd, really bàd.
    TBC 📖✍️
  • Exclusively Yours – Episode 26

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 26

     

    EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

    Exclusively Yours – Episode 26


    Subtitle; {Please, Love Me}

               ✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿                                                                                                                                                                                                   
                                  
    Olivia’s POV 
    “You’re màd,” I told him, shaking my head disapprovingly, and turned to leave his room.
    Riccardo laughed before taking hold of my wrist, pinning me to the nearby wall with his signature sinister smirk. “Màdly in love with you.”
    As I tried to pull my wrist from his grip, he replaced his hands on my waist, and I leaned back, trying to avoid any further advances.
    “Let go.”
    “I don’t want to.”
    “I want you to.”
    “How can I let go of you? It’s not every day I get the opportunity to touch you without you being a bràt.” With a swift move, he pecked my neck, and a shudder ran through my veins. “God, you have no idea how much I love the way you react to my touch. I love the way you’re affected by it, how much effect it has on you. I just love it.”
    He doesn’t have an effect on me.
    Why would a person like him have an effect on me?
    Impossible.
    “You are delusional,” I retorted, more calmly than I intended.
    He chuckled, then slowly tilted his head forward, lowering his lips to touch mine. My eyes fell to his lips, inching closer and closer, and just when I thought he would kiss me, my lids dropped, the anticipation building up in me.
    My fists clenched his shirt tightly while my eyes remained closed, my patience running thin. I opened my eyes only to see him staring down at me with a smug and overly self-satisfied grin.
    No matter how much I wanted to push him away for toying with my feelings, I couldn’t, not when he was staring at me with so much admiration, adoration, and so much love. “See? You do love my kisses.”
    Do I?
    I opened my mouth to refuse, to deny, to do anything to convince him otherwise, but my tongue seemed tied in a knot. My hands also seemed to have a mind of their own as they lifted up, caressing Riccardo’s face.
    The absolute shock on his face was definitely less than the one I was feeling, but for some reason, I couldn’t stop. “So, what if I do? It is not bad. You’re my husband, aren’t you?”
    The bewilderment that flashed through Riccardo’s eyes couldn’t be hidden on his face or in his voice. “Sunshine, you just called me your husband.”
    Seeing him this… taken aback is kind of cute because he is always the one taking me by surprise.
    My heart raced like it does every time he calls me by that nickname. My fingers smoothed the wrinkle on his black shirt, and I flattened my palm against the rippling muscles of his hard chest. “Aren’t you? We got married, didn’t we?”
    Oh, my God!
    Am I flirting with him?
    Why am I flirting with him?
    He should disgúst me.
    Why isn’t he disgústing me?!
    “We did. We did get married. I’m your husband and you’re my wife,” Riccardo replied, more to himself than to me, as if he was trying to convince himself that he is truly my husband. His grasp on my waist then tightened as he drew me impossibly closer to him, closing the non-existent distance between us.
    The proximity is suffocatingly good yet bàd at the same time; good because the fresh scent of his soap still lingered in the air around him and on his body, bàd because I can’t breathe whenever we are this close to each other. His lips brushed against mine so gently I barely felt it.
    “You are my wife,” he repeated again, to himself.
    I am.
    I’m married to him and no matter how much I try to deny it, I simply can’t. I also can’t stop the amount of nàsty and siñful thoughts running through my head about how he will look above me, completely nakéd, while he… takes my ability to walk.
    His gaze stayed on my lips longer than necessary, his eyes darkening with contemplation on whether or not he should do what his mind was telling him before his lips came crashing down on mine, hard and rough, without mercy.
    The kiss was absolutely merciless, savage, and literally and figuratively breathtaking. One of his strong hands rode up my waist, going under my crop top and squeezing my bare skin, I m0@ned, and he swallowed it.
    Suddenly, he withdrew his lips and licked it. His other hand that wasn’t under my crop top brushed harshly against my bottom lip, then he leaned in and bit it. I was way too breathless and on cloud nine to feel whatever pain that came with the bite.
    “Next time you go for a run, let me know. I’d love to join,” he said.
    I wanted to retort, ‘I’d rather you join me in a different kind of activity, like one that involves the bed,’ but I settled for, “I prefer running alone.”
    “You’re not alone.” His fingers tenderly stroked my stomach, setting off a whirlwind of butterflies. “I’m with you.”
    His words, touch, gaze, and that little smile only made the butterflies more frenzied. 
    How many girlfriends had he had to become such a smooth talker?
    “Be with yourself,” I mentally slapped myself for that childish comeback.
    “Why would I when you’re here with me?” His question was clearly rhetorical, leaving me silent, searching for a retort other than ‘I hàte you,’ but finding none. “You’re cute when speechless.”
    I shot him an icy glare and snapped, “Don’t call me cute.”
    “Cute. You’re so adorable.” He further aggravated me by pinching my cheeks and using a baby voice. “So cute.”
    Why did I find him attractive again?
    I frowned while Riccardo laughed at me.
    “Come on, smile.”
    “No.”
    A minute later, I found myself running away from his tickles, our laughter filling the room. As I tried to evade him by circling the sofa in the living room, he caught me and playfully pushed me down before resuming his assàult.
    “See, now you’re laughing,” Riccardo, my husband, said as he tickled me, hovering above.
    I squirmed beneath him, trying and failing to stop his relentless assault. “S-s-s-stop,” I laughed hysterically. “I-I-I can’t breathe.”
    He stopped, then began peppering kisses on my head and every reachable spot, and I let him, not because I had no choice, but because I wanted to.
    Each nanosecond his lips touched my head and neck, the thump thump thump in my heart accelerated. Just as it was about to intensify, a female voice called out Riccardo’s name. He got up, revealing a blonde girl my age, her hands spread wide with a big smile on her face.
    “Asia!” Riccardo went to her, lifting her off the floor and spinning around, both of them laughing.
    I don’t like her.
    I sat up, watching them hug like long-lost family, forcing myself not to roll my eyes.
    Riccardo broke the hug, “Sunshine, this is Asia, my childhood friend. Asia, this is Olivia, my beautiful wife and the mother of my future kids.”
    I shouldn’t have felt proud, but I was, proud as a peacock. The pride was so overwhelming that I didn’t even have to fake a smile as I stood and extended my hand to her.
    She smiled, “Hi. You’re very pretty.”
    “I know,” I replied before I could stop myself, smiling back.
    “Excuse me for a second,” Riccardo said, then went upstairs.
    As soon as he was out of sight, the overly smiling woman’s expression turned scornful. “Listen, you little thing. I don’t know who you think you are, but you need to get lost from Ricky’s life. He’s mine.”
    “Call me a ‘thing’ one more time and your hair will turn red.”
    “What, will you dye it?”
    “Yeah. I will, with your blôod.”
    Her scorn faltered, “Did you just threatén to make me bleéd from my head?”
    “No. I just told you what will happen if you pass your boundaries, Africa.”
    “It’s Asia.”
    Who cares?
    “Whatever you say, Africa,” I muttered loud enough for her to hear. “This is your first time in my house. What would you like? Water, poisôn, juice, wine?” When she opened her mouth to reply, I waved a dismissive hand in the air, laughing. “Just joking. I wouldn’t serve you to save my life.”
    We glared at each other with so much hatréd, as if we were archenémies from the past. As soon as we heard Riccardo’s footsteps approaching, we forced smiles on our faces.
    “Sorry, Asia. I had to make a call,” he said to her with one of his irresistible dimpled smiles before facing me. “What would you like for breakfast, sunshine?”
    For her to leave.
    “I don’t know, maybe toast and coffee. You?” 
    “Same,” he beamed at me. “What about you, Asia?”
    “Oh. Do you have salad?”
    “No. You still eat salad?”
    “Well, yeah. I’m a model, are you forgetting?”
    “How can I forget? Your pictures are in every magazine,” Riccardo said as he intertwined our fingers together, his eyes on her but his hand on me.
    I smirked, staring down at our interlaced fingers and then at her before mouthing, “Is he really yours?”
                                  ✯✯✯✯
    After ten long hours, she finally decided to leave. Apparently, she has an early morning shoot tomorrow, which is why she’s here in America, New York from Poland.
    She’s one héll of an actress. That’s what she should have been instead of a model. She put on an incredible act of liking me and complimenting me in front of Riccardo even after I left them to prepare my breakfast.
    Of course, I didn’t go back to them. I did everything I could to kíll time so I wouldn’t kíll her instead. Luckily, I had Dahlia, who is kind of getting used to me, and apart from her, the atmosphere and surroundings were serene and calming.
    I hàte Riccardo, but I love his choice. Here is peaceful and quiet, no cars zooming back and forth, no pollution in the air, no honking and honking, just peaceful quietness.
    “I was thinking I should make pasta for dinner, what do you think?” Riccardo came to my room to ask me after the human had left.
    “No. I ordered pizza.”
    “Junk food isn’t good. Let me cook.”
    Before I could bite down on my tongue, I blurted out, “Do I look like your model friend? I can and will eat whatever I want whenever I want. Leave.”
    “Did I do something?”
    Yeah. Having a bítch like her as a friend.
    I had only met his two best friends once, at the reception party after the wedding, and I liked them. They’re funny in their own way. But liking Africa would take a while, and by a while, I mean never.
    “Go away.”
    “Fine,” he said and left.
    Fine!
    Good riddance, who the héck names their child after a f+cking continent?!
    TBC 📖✍️