Chapter 15: Chapter 15

ARIEL POV

I tried to open my eyes, but it was blurry, prompting me to close them. A numb pain shot across my head as I hissed.

A sweet fragrance invaded my nostrils, as I breathed it in. A little conscious, I snuggled closer to the undeniably comfortable thing.It felt like a human sized pillow. I snuggled closer, burying my face in it while enjoying the lovely scent.

A subtle movement brought me to open my eyes. My eyes widened in shock when I became aware of what or perhaps who I had my head on.

I jeered back immediately, my heart racing at the sight of Ryan sleeping comfortably in my bed.

'What is he doing in my room?

I facepalmed, feeling embarrassed at the thought that I embraced him thinking he was a pillow.

I gently caressed my forehead, the incident that happened the previous evening crossing my mind. I felt my body trembled, a reminder that my dad was at risk. I must have felt unconscious yesterday. I grimaced at the thought that yesterday's incident made it the third time I fell unconscious. Something is weird.

The only thought was how to convince Ryan from canceling his cooperation with my stepmom, at least for now. I have been interested in not getting revenge because it would never make me happy. But that doesn't mean I would let her off the hook. She deserved to receive her taste of medicine.

I turned, noticing Ryan, who had been staring at me. He yawned lightly, covering his mouth with the back of his hand. He was still dressed in a sky-blue shirt and navy-blue trousers. No matter what he wore, he was a sight for sore eyes due to his strong physique.

“Good morning.” I greeted, as he stood up.

He ignored me, glancing around my room for a while.

“Ryan, I greatly appreciate your help. I apologize for bothering you.” I kept rambling, not until he shot me a look.

“I have a question.” His piercing eyes studied me, and if it weren't for his mouth's subtle curve, his probing gaze would have made me nervous.

“Sure, please ask.” I swallowed, meeting his eyes slowly.

“Who is Damien to you?”

For a split second, it was embarrassing. I was slightly angry inside of me. He was referring to yesterday's incident. He never even asked how I was feeling.

“He was my senior at College.” I said half truthfully.

Noticing his gaze still hovering at me, I felt he didn't believe me.

He nodded, making way towards the door. That was it. He would be using the silence treatment.

'What if he calls off our marriage?' What if he thought I was lying? A lot of what is creeping into my mind.

“You should rest better. At least you have made me get late to work today. Goodbye.” He walked out as soon as he spoke.

I held my breath for a while, engaging in an internal brawl between myself and me. I slumped on the bed, what happened yesterday crossing my mind.

I sat up, noticing my phone which was on the mirror stand, beside my bed. I tried calling the number that called yesterday, but it went into a voicemail. I debated between leaving a voice note or not, and at the end I didn't leave it.

I bathed and left for the living room, only to see Mrs. Selina smiling.

“Hey Ariel dear. Hope you are fine.” She hugged and gave me a peck. The thought of Sir Bryan attempt towards me yesterday made my heart heavy at her lovely gesture.

I put on a small smile. “Good morning mum. I am feeling better. Thank you, ma. I hope you are fine too.”

“Yes, I am. You haven't eaten this morning. Let me call one of the cooks to make you a meal.” I objected, and for a split second, a thought came to my mind.

“No ma. I would like to make a meal for myself this morning.” Her brows arched with surprise, as I spoke.

“Actually, I offended Ryan yesterday. I would like to prepare a meal to compensate, especially for taking care of me yesterday. And thanks so much for the shopping and the restaurant date, I really appreciate it.” I clamped my palms together in appreciation.

She waved it off, smiling at me.

“Don't sweat it. I actually locked you two up last night.” My face turned crimson at her confession.

“And yes, you are free to make the meal. Just have one of the cooks help you out.” I nodded, smiling widely, as I made to leave.

I stopped when she said: “Yesterday, you fell unconscious. Ryan refused to divulge any information from the doctor. What happened?” I felt my heart skip.

“I don't really know how it happened. I think after my accident the night you saved me, I think I must have been triggered or something.” I explained, even though I knew I was half-truth.

“Oh. Okay. Take care then. You should hurry with the food. Ryan left the house without eating any food.”

I sauntered towards the kitchen as I saw the head chef there, Mrs Tristan.

“Ma'am, what do you want? We will help you cook it.” She stated.

“I will be cooking, Mrs. Tristan. Ma'am Selina has granted me permission, so you can't stop me.” She chuckled.

“Okay then. Let me assist.” I nodded as we set to work on making the perfect morning breakfast.

It was scrambled eggs, pancakes, and coffee. I served some for Mrs. Tristan who hesitatingly accepted it. I pack some for Ryan and I.

Mr. Walter was outside, as Ryan drove himself to the office that morning. I left and soon enough I got to the company.

As I took my first step into the company, I felt everyone's eyes on me. In no time, they started greeting me.

“Welcome young madam.”

I kept hearing here and there, making my stomach churn. I gave small smiles and curt nods in response. I can't believe most people knew my identity as Ryan's fiancée. We aren't even married yet,' I screamed inwardly. It could only have been through the viral kiss video or.....

I decided to put those thoughts behind me, clamping the small basket in my hand. Even when Mr. Walter wanted to help me with it, I insisted and carried it.

Taking the private elevator with no hindrance from the securities, I found myself at the top floor, where Ryan's office was located.

I stepped out, but was quite unfortunate to meet his secretary. I blew out a breath, wanting to just pass her and leave.

“Look who we have here. Welcome, Young Madam.” She greeted, a smirk on her face.

“Good morning Miss Chloe.” I faked a smile.

“What a shame to still be hanging onto our boss.” She said quickly, slightly covering her lips.

I felt irritated, but wasn't going to show it. Instead, I moved closer to her, my height towering over her a bit, as I noticed a glint of fear in her eyes.

“At least he is hanging on to me as well. It is really a bad thing to be one-sided when it comes to feelings. Your boss wouldn't even spare you a glance if you were naked.”

“You….” She felt lost for words as she glared at me.

“Watch your back, Miss Chloe. After our marriage, don't be surprised if I find a more efficient secretary for my husband.” I giggled, showing off my ring, before sauntering away.

I can't believe I did that, but it did felt good. Likewise, I need to put her in the right place. It is her sheer audacity for me.

Breathing in and out softly, I knocked on the door.

“Come in.” Ryan's voice prompted me to open the door, as I stepped in.

His eyes met mine briefly, as he stared back at the files he was working on.

“Ryan, I came to give you this breakfast.” I walked slowly to his table, dropping it gently.

“You can take it away. I'm not interested.” He stated, not sparing me a glance.

I felt my heart skip a bit.

“Ryan. I…. If it was what happened yesterday, then I'm sorry.”

He stopped working for a while, placing his chin on his hands.

“If you want me to forget what transpired yesterday at the restaurant, then explain your relationship with Damien Salvador.”

My mouth dropped open, and I was sure dismay was written all over my features, but Ryan could only keep his face straight for as long as I kept staring in space.

I was speechless. What should I do?