a Bon

es. Their movements were rough, the antiseptic a fresh sting. They simply cleaned the wound, smeared on some generic ointment, and moved on. It did nothing. My body, alr

an my wound, his jaw tightening. With a sudden growl, he snatched the antiseptic bottle from her hand. "What are you doing?" he dema

who relied on his touch, his soothing words. That Briana was gone. This new Briana, the one

ew he was. Waiting for me to break, to beg, to revert to the girl he knew, the girl he believed he cou

orry, Gabriel," I whispered, my voice flat, devoid of emotion. "I won't trouble you anymore." A small, bitter

blazing with renewed fury. "Are you trying to manipulate me again? Don't be ridiculous!" He threw the antiseptic bottle agains

my lips. Games? No, Gabriel.

lation, but he had always treated me with unwavering love and care, a stark contrast to Gabriel' s transactional affection. My greatest fear, when I was lost in the snow, hadn't been death but the thought of him worrying, of him grieving.

h fury, aimed at Cory who had just walked in. Emmanuel's cane, usually a steady companion, crashed against the tiled floor, a thunderous sound that echoed through

Mr. Robbins! I... I assure you, there must be a mistake! I've been diligent,

ane, bringing it down with a swift, brutal force that sent Cory sprawlin

ied, rushing to Emmanuel's side. "What's happened? Has Briana upset you again? She can be so difficu

like that!" he bellowed, his eyes blazing. "You and your conniving brother are nothing but liars, both of you! I know what you've done! I will see you both punished!" His fury was so absolute

me, still and silent on the bed, watching it all unfold. Candace immediately burst into theatrical tears, throwing herself into Gabriel' s arms. "Oh, Gabriel!" she sobbe

protective rage. "Briana," he said, his voice dangerously low. "You are not fit to