Taming The Bitch

by sweetdreamer33

***Meet Stella.
Beautiful, rich and smart, a pampered daughter with royal blood. At an early age,
she was arranged by her parents to marry Eros Petrakis - at the right time. As an
obedient daughter, she agreed into this. But when she met Eros' cousin, Tristan
Latsis, she had a change of mind. She fell in love with Tristan and was willing to
fight for their love. BUT... was Tristan worth fighting for?

***Meet Tristan.
Abandoned. Hated. Deprived. Unloved. Tristan learned to survive on his own. He
surpassed the struggles and hardships he experienced at an early age. But he became
a bitter man. Then she met Stella. The girl who softened his stone heart. He
thought everything was magical... until he found out about Stella's betrothal to
his cousin, Eros.

Read the LOVE-HATE story of Tristan and Stella. You will enjoy this.

=================

Taming The Bitch

"I may be a bitch, but I am not your bitch." - Stella Valiente

***

"I hate you and then I love you. It's like I want to throw you off a cliff, then
rush to the bottom to catch you." - Tristan Latsis

***

"You have no idea, how worthless you made me feel." - Stella Valiente

***
"You tainted every good memory I have of you." - Tristan Latsis

***

"I hate you to the moon and back." - Stella Valiente

***

"How is it possible to love and hate a person so much at the same time?" - Tristan
Latsis

Tristan Latsis and Stella Valiente - Love and Hate Story

Two people who couldn't stand the sight of each other. They hated each other like
mortal enemies. Find out the reason why in this new Romantic-Comedy story of
Tristan Latsis and Stella Valiente.
=================

Taming The Bitch

PLEASE READ FIRST:

*** This story is "NOT EDITED" so the readers are expected to understand the
spelling and grammatical errors.

*** This book is a work of fiction. All names, characters, locations, and incidents
are products of the author's imagination, or have been used fictitiously. Any
resemblance to actual persons living or dead, locales, or events is entirely
coincidental.

*** The uploading, scanning, and distribution of this book in any form or by any
means - including but not limited to electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording, or otherwise - without the permission of the author is illegal and
punishable by law. Your support of the author's rights is appreciated.

Taming The Bitch

By: Neilani Alejandrino a.k.a. sweetdreamer33

Cover made by: @waterlilly123

All Rights Reserved

July 6, 2015

=================

Chapter One

Chapter One

--Kindly put your playlist here--

"They think she has everything. They think she has the perfect life, with the
perfect family and a perfect guy. But what they don't know is that, she cries
herself to sleep. I guess there's more to it than meets the eye." - Anonymous

Stella's POV

My name is Stella Valiente. I'm 23 years old. Six months ago, I graduated a
marketing degree in one of the top universities in California. My parents expected
me to help in our family business, but I was taking my time - relaxing and living
life to the fullest. No one's pressuring me to work anyway. With my status in life,
I really don't need to work.

I am also a pianist. I learned to play piano since I was four years old. At first,
I really hated it, but because I was forced into it by my mother, I learned to love
it. Last year, was the first time I joined a major piano competition in Italy and I
had the honor of winning third place. Not too bad for a first timer like me.

I was named Stella by my parents, because I was their star. When you searched the
meaning of my name in google, you would learn that my name meant - a dreamgirl, a
fairy and queen of stars.

Yes. I was like a star... I felt and dressed like a star, every single day of my
life... since I was born.

I was lavished with EVERYTHING in life. Luxurious lifestyle, such as traveling in

style with our very own private jets, vacationing in our private villas in Italy,
Bora bora, Australia and Philippines - and dined in

the world's most expensive restaurants.

My wardrobe? I had a fully equipped three story closet. All sorts of signature
gowns and dresses - formal and informal wear... varied coats, in fur, mink and
sable... very costly shoes, mostly 6-inch killer stiletto heels and countless
accessories: hats, headbands, scarf, hankies, sunglasses, etc. there was no room
for cheap clothes.

I had a separate room for my jewelries. Necklaces, chokers, bangles, bracelets,

earrings, anklets, rings, brooch, etc. in different designs, made with rare
gemstones: natural pearls, diamonds, rubies, topaz and others. I inherited most of
these jewelries from my great grandmother who was a Russian princess, Vera
Petrovna.

A few girls in high school hated me and talked behind my back. They said I was
acting and talking like royalty... as if I was the queen of England. But they
didn't know that I was indeed a part of a royal family. Royal blood ran through my
veins. Aside from having

a princess great grandmother, my great great grandfather also was a Russian King.
In Russia and even in Italy, people addressed me as Lady Stella.

I was the only daughter and youngest child of my parents, Rafael Lawrence Valiente
and Natalia Castello Monteiro. Both of my parents came from two of the world's
richest families, the Valiente's and Monteiro's.

Dad was a businessman, like his father - my grandpa, Draco Valiente. Before dad
totally managed my grandpa's oil company, he already had his own airlines and
global chain of hotels businesses. And now that my older brothers had their
degrees, they took over in managing our businesses.

My family treated me like a porcelain doll - so fragile and delicate. They were so
protective of me, making sure that I was safe and properly guarded all the time.

I grew up surrounded with nannies 24/7 to take care of my daily needs. I had
tutors/mentors who helped me with my school assignments, projects and exams. I also
had my personal driver and bodyguards, who accompanied me in school, luxury
shopping and going out with friends - which seldom happened because I had few
friends.
As I grew older, more people were employed to work for me. I had a couturier,
fashion designer and stylist, a personal trainer and nutritionist, beauticians -
who took care of my hair and makeup, body waxing, eyebrow trimmings, manicure-
pedicure, body spa, facial and body massage, etc. I was pampered by my parents, as
well as by my brothers. They gave me everything I wanted. Sky was the limit.

In return, my parents had three conditions.

First,

do good in school.

Second, obey their wishes.

Third, no boyfriends.

I always did so good in school. I was a consistent honor student. Not really in
first place, but somewhere between sixth and tenth place. At least, I made my
parents happy.

Obeying my parents wishes became a habit. Sometimes, I couldn't decide for myself,
even in simple things. I have to consult my mom. And because of this, pleasing my
parents and my brothers became a necessity. I seeked for their approval in almost
everything I did, that eventually... I felt like I was seeking for their attention
most of the time.

I admit. I didn't have much friends in school. I was in an exclusive school for
girls from pre-school to high school, and I had very few friends. I could only
count them in one hand.

During middle school, one of my few friends told me that the other girls didn't
like me because I was too formal, so prim and proper, aristocrat, and most of the
time, acted like royalty.

I just smiled and shrugged my shoulders. So what? I really don't care what they
think. I'm not an ordinary girl. I'm a star... a princess and every boy's
dreamgirl.

Actually, I chose my own friends. I got along with girls who admired me and wanted
to be like me. Girls who picked my hanky when it fell on the floor. Girls who
carried my books for me. Girls who ran errand for me. Girl who would take notes for
me... etc. In other words, girls who worshipped me - just like Mia Stewart, my new
friend, a transferee from New Zealand.

I was fifteen when I understood my parents' last condition - the reason why I was
not allowed to have a boyfriend.

I was with Mia on our way to the school lobby to go home when I saw a strikingly
handsome guy wearing white shirt and faded blue jeans leaning on his rugged pick-up
truck door. He looked soooo gorgeous... tall, lean and strong. His face was bronzed
by wind and sun... and the set of his chin suggested a stubborn streak.
Oh my God... I couldn't take my eyes off him. Who is he?

His profile was sharp and confident... and his hair, silky straight dark brown hair
ruffled by the breeze... he was devastatingly handsome.

Then his eyes caught mine.

I instantly looked away. I felt embarrassed for being caught staring at him. It was
not my nature to stare at a guy or even look, it was the other way around. Yeah, I
was used at guys who often stare at me, openly, without shame. I knew I was
attractive to boys... guys... or men. I was aware of it since I was a kid.

He was probably twenty... or twenty one...

"Oh! Tristan is here." Mia gasped.

"Tristan?"

"I have to go. Bye Stella, see you on Monday." Mia smiled and waved at me.

"Bye...." My jaw dropped looking at Mia embracing the guy named Tristan, lovingly
and adoringly. They looked so sweet together and it seemed like they missed each
other so much.

I felt a sudden twinge of jealousy - of Mia, for having a gorgeous boyfriend like
Tristan.

At that moment, I really wished I was Mia.

I went home thinking of Tristan... and Mia. I couldn't stop thinking about him.
I've never felt this way before and I never had a great crush on someone, ever
before.

That evening, after dinner, I talked to my mom.

"Mom, how will you know if you're in love?"

My mom, Natalia Monteiro Valiente frowned. "Are you?"

It took so long for me to answer. I heaved a sigh and said. "Maybe, I... don't
know."

"Stella, you're still young. You have to concentrate on your studies first."

"I know mom. It's

just that I saw this guy this afternoon, and... I can't stop thinking about him."

"Oh... that's not love, Stella. That's infatuation."

"Infatuation?"

"Yes. It will easily fades. Tomorrow, you'll forget about him."

I smiled and asked the question that was bugging me for almost a year already. My
grandma, Sophia Castello Monteiro told me about this but I refused to believe her.

"Mom... can I ask you something?"

"Of course. What is it?"

"Promise you'll not get mad?"

She sighed heavily. "I won't."

"Is it true that grandma Sophia was arranged to marry grandpa Enrique before they
even met in person?"

Mom smiled at me, then ran her fingers through my long hazelnut brown hair. "Yeah,
it's true. And look at them now, they are still so madly in love. There's was a
marriage made in heaven."

"Oh." I stared at my mom, thinking. " Why am I not allowed to have a boyfriend mom?
Are you planning for an arranged marriage for me too?"

My mom gasped and just looked at me.

"It's true, right?" I asked her.

"I... I..." My mom stammered. "It's for your own good."

"For my own good? How come?"

"It's hard to explain now. But someday, when you're older, you will understand."

I tried to control my temper and my tears. "Who's the unlucky guy to marry me,
mom?"

"Don't say that, Stella. He will be a very lucky guy if he'll marry you."

"Mom, please.... Just tell me who the guy is."

She shook her head, then later on said. "It's Eros. Eros Petrakis."

***Don't forget to vote, comment and share to your friends.***

Love and kisses,

sweetdreamer33

=================

Chapter Two

Chapter Two (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here-

"The worst feeling is pretending you don't care about someone, when really it's
that person all you seem to think about." - Pinterest

Tristan's POV

'Tristan... shh.... Stop crying. You know I love you, my baby boy... I'll be back
and get you, I promise.'

That was my mom's last words to me, and that happened when I was barely four years
old - about twenty three years ago.

Every day since that day, I kept on waiting for her to come back - but she never
did. She broke her promise.

I didn't understand what really happened. We were once a happy family. My parents
even seemed so much in love.

I remembered dad chasing after mom almost everytime he came back from work. Mom
looked so happy, giggling and running towards their bedroom.

Everytime

they played like that, I felt so left out - they ignored me like I didn't exist. I
followed them to the bedroom, but the door was locked. I was so naïve at that time.
I thought they were praying, because mom kept on calling and screaming for 'God.'

Dad pampered mom too much. Almost everyday, mom went out shopping, buying tons of
very expensive clothes, shoes, bags and accessories. She was very addicted in
shopping. She always kept up with the latest fashion trends. She bought too many
expensive useless things that our house was like a department store.

Dad understood. He always understood - because he was such a nice guy.

He said that when mom was young, she was deprived of the beautiful clothes, shoes
and bags. All her things were old and hand-me-downs from her mom's employer.

My mom's mother was a housekeeper of a rich family in New Zealand. She got pregnant
by her employer's only son - my grandpa, Michael

Chandler.

Mom grew up in Wellington, New Zealand. Her aunt took care of her. She was eighteen
when she was acknowledged as part of the Chandler family. The time when her mother
died. And at that same year, she married my father - Richard Latsis, a greek
billionaire businessman, who was based in New York.

Before my mother left us, there were a series of fights between my parents, and
mostly happened at midnight - the time when both of them arrived home. Dad from
work and mom... from the gym.

Dad was always away for business and mom was always out... shopping... meeting
friends... shopping... went to the gym... shopping... then eventually, she was
constantly in the gym and forgot about shopping.

Later on, I found out that mom left us for her personal trainer and they settled
back in New Zealand, her hometown.

Dad was so devastated when mom left us. I saw him drown himself with alcohol.
Crying in agony and calling mom's name at night. He was probably dreaming - having
nightmare and couldn't accept that his nightmare was in fact a reality.

It was almost a year when dad finally recovered. At that time, mom already had a
new baby - a girl.

Dad divorced mom. After a month, mom got married.

Me? They didn't care about me. When mom left, additional nanny and bodyguard were
assigned to take care of me.

I was so affected when my parents broke up. I kept on crying at nights - looking
for my mom. I missed my mom - her laughs, her cuddles and her kisses.

Oftentimes, I wondered if I was a bad boy. Why did she left us all of a sudden?
Maybe she really didn't love us. Maybe she forgot about me - that she already had a
new baby girl.

Stella's POV

Eight Years Earlier

Mom was wrong. It had been a week now, but I still couldn't stop thinking of
Tristan.

Tristan... Tristan... Tristan.

More so when Mia told me that Tristan was not her boyfriend.

"Oh... Stella. He is my brother." Mia laughed at me.

"Your brother?" I asked Mia again. Checking if I heard her right. Sometimes her New
Zealand accent was so hard to understand. Almost all vowels were pronounced as 'i'.

"Yeah. Tristan is my half brother. We have the same mother."

'OH!" My heart fluttered - elated, like suddenly a rainbow appeared up in the
sky... and the gates of heaven opened and angels flew down singing triumphantly.
Yes! Yes! Yes!

I was overwhelmed with hope, chance and possibility.

I'm falling for Tristan. He's so beautiful. His eyes, his hair and his lips... I
wish he'll fall for me too.

I started daydreaming. Me and Tristan. Tristan and Me. We were in the park holding
hands and sharing an ice cream cone... or we were in the movie house watching 'The
Notebook' and I was crying. He would say 'Stop crying my princess, it makes me
sadder when you sad." Then he wiped my tears with his fingers and hugged me so
tightly.

I imagined Tristan to be so sweet, caring and loving. He would rescue me, protect
me and fight for me...

Exactly like a knight in shining armor. I really liked him a lot.

****

After a week, Mia was really devastated. She failed in our math quiz.

"I can't catch up in our Geometry class... and I'm afraid of our teacher, he's a
terror... huhuhu..." Mia was crying like a small child. "I'm sure when my grandpa
will find out, he'll have me back in New Zealand immediately."

"What? He can't do that."

"He will." Mia pouted her lips.

"Just study harder, Mia. You will do better in our next quiz." I rubbed her back up
and down. But, she cried harder - that everyone in the cafeteria was looking at us.

"Help me Stella. I don't want to go back to New Zealand. My grandma hated me -

she's like Miss Minchin, so strict and scolding me all the time."

"Really? My grandma is so nice... she's adorable."

"Mine is not. Maybe she would be nicer if I was really her granddaughter."

"OH!" I was confused. But I didn't want to dig her story about her grandmother... I
was not a nosy person and I didn't even like gossips.

"You need a tutor. Don't worry, I'll call my mentor if she knows someone who is
available." I clasped her hand. "Stop crying now."

"I can't."

I was puzzled. "What do you mean you can't?"

"I don't want any tutor. They will just scold me for being so slow."

"Mia... it's their job to help you."

She stopped crying now and started wiping her tears. "Stella, can I ask you a
favor?"
My forehead creased. I was not really used in giving favors to my friends, usually
it was the other way around.

"What is it?"

"Can you teach me Geometry? You topped in our math class and when our teacher asked
you to explain the answers, you did it so well that I understood."

"But we don't have any time. I have to go home immediately after class."

"How about tomorrow in our house. It's Saturday." Mia eyed me so eagerly. Her hands
were clasped together, like she was begging.

My heart lurched. Tristan.

Oh gosh. I reaaaalllyyy wanted to go to their house... so badly. So I could see

Tristan again. Oh... Tristan. Tristan. Tristan. My brain kept on saying his name.
Maybe I could finally meet him.

BUT....

"I can't. Our family will attend a charity event tomorrow at lunchtime. I don't
know when it would finish. It usually ended late in the afternoon." I heaved a
frustrated sigh.

Mia looked so sad, all of a sudden. Her eyes welled with tears again.

"Hey, I could come at your house after the event, let's say at five?"

"Really?" Mia's expression brightened. Her sullen behaviour was replaced with
excitement. "Oh Stella, you're so kind. Thank you." She hugged me and that caught
me off guard - and yeah, I hugged her back. TBH, I usually didn't hug my friends.
"I'll tell our chef to cook a special dinner for us. I have a queen bed, it's not
so big, but we could fit on it easily... I don't snore... do you?"

"No. Mia... I won't be spending the night at your house. My parents won't let me."

"Oh! That's too bad." She look dismayed. "Hmm... I'm really hoping you'll meet my
brother, Tristan. He's a nice guy."

And that statement made me forgot all my reasonings. "Okay. I'll be there." By hook
or by crook.

***Don't forget to vote, comment and share this story to your friends***

Love and kisses,

Neilani Alejandrino

a.k.a. sweetdreamer33
=================

Chapter Three

Chapter Three (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist hereâ

"Anyone can make you happy by doing something special. But only someone special can
make you happy without doing anything." - Pinterest

Tristan's POV

Alone and left out.

Oftentimes, I felt that way since I was a kid.

Mom got married and had a baby girl. Dad got married too and had a baby boy. They
were even now. The battle ended. Both won and ended happy.

"He's so adorable and looks like you, Richard." Marilyn, my dad's new wife said,
craddling her new baby boy, while half lying on bed.

I don't like Marilyn. I hate her. She scolded me all the time - even hurt me when
nobody's looking. And when dad was around, she was as sweet as a candy. She
reminded me of the wicked stepmothers in Disney movies.

Dad insisted that I should call her mom, but I refused. I had only one mom.
Although she left me, at least she was kind and caring.

"I think he looks like Tristan." Dad said looking at me. I was sitting at the foot
of their huge bed in the master's bedroom - feeling so uneasy. I felt like I didn't
belong there, like I was not part of their family.

"Of course not, darling. Kobe's eyes are hazel green like yours... and his hair are
golden brown." She rolled her eyes and her lips twisted. I knew she hated the sight
of me. She said I looked like my mom, especially my blue eyes.

Dad laughed and summoned me closer. "Come Tristan. Look at Kobe. You were once like
him, so tiny and cute." He patted my dark brown hair and pulled me on his lap.

I stared at the baby. Dad was right. He was so tiny. His hands were so small and
wrinkled and his skin was so red. I looked at his tummy. He was breathing so fast
and he was always sleeping. I wondered if he was okay.

I wanted to touch him, to feel his small hands and feet. But I was afraid that
Marilyn would be angry. On second thought, maybe she wouldn't because dad was here.

I reached out and touched the baby's hand. Marilyn abruptly jerked the baby away
and that made him cry.

"Oh, look what you've done. You startled him. Shhh.... Baby Kobe, it's okay,
mommy's here. I wont let Tristan hurt you. He's a bad boy." Marilyn said sweetly
and melodically, like she was just teasing me. She was so good on it . If dad
wasn't here, I would be scolded and slapped.

"Hahaha. Kobe easily cries. You know Tristan, when you were a baby, you seldom
cries. Your nannies never had a hard time taking care of you." Dad said.

I just stared at my dad. He stared back at me and winked. I realized that what he
said was a compliment.

One month later. I woke up in the middle of the night. I heard the baby crying. I
sat down on bed and rubbed my eyes. Where's his nanny? Dad and Marilyn haven't
arrived yet from the party?

I stood up and ran to the nursery room. Then I saw the baby's nanny - sleeping on
the couch.

I walked towards the blue wooden padded

crib and stared at the baby. He was crying so hard. Big pools of tears ran out of
his eyes. What is wrong with him?

I woke his nanny up, but she just shove me away. Then I went back to the crib and
looked at Kobe again. "Shh... stop crying."

But he wouldn't stop crying. I remembered him laughing playing with his rattle. So
I looked for it and found it inside a nearby cabinet.

I shook the rattle. But he still continued crying.

"Are you hungry?" I looked at his nanny again and yelled at her to wake up, but she
just ignored me.

"Why are you crying? Are you scared?" I shook the rattle again. He was crying so
hard now and was holding his breathe.

I wanted to hug him, to tell him its okay, just like mom always did whenever I got
scared- so he would stop crying.

I climbed up the wooden crib with ease. Then, knelt beside him and gently patted
his head.
He suddenly stopped crying and looked at me. We stared at each other for seconds.
Then he smiled. And I smiled. I touched his fingers and his feet â so small. I was
afraid I would break it.

I shook the rattle and he laughed. I liked him. He was not like his mom.

I felt happy. I have my dad and my brother now.

Another month later. Marilyn insisted that I should go with them at the park. I
refused to go. I just wanted to stay home and watch my favorite show on TV â and
eat pizza. Besides, I didn't want to be with Marilyn or anywhere near her. We
disliked each other â immensely.

"Marilyn, let him stay." Dad said. He was holding the

knob of my opened bedroom door.

"Darling, Liza and her family will be there. She has a son the same age as Tristan.
I promised to bring Tristan so her son have someone to play with."

"But Marilyn..."

"Darling please. Besides, watching TV all day is not good for him. Look at him,
he's getting fat."

Dad looked at me disappointedly, then shook his head. "Yeah, you're right. He needs
the exercise."

I looked at my tummy. It blown bigger... and my arms... my legs and my face. I'm
starting to get fat.

I had no choice that day, my dad dragged me to the park.

The son of Marilyn's friend turned out to be an autistic. He just kept on staring
at me. And wherever I went, he was following me. He was even mimicking my actions.
I tried to play with him but... it was so hard.

I was on the bench eating corndog when I noticed a stray dog walking behind baby
Kobe's stroller.

I looked at Marilyn and dad. They were busy talking and laughing with the other
couple â sharing jokes. Baby Kobe's nanny â the same nanny... was on her phone,
texting.

"Watch out! Watch

out! There's a dog." I yelled at the nanny, but she didn't hear me. Dad and Marilyn
even ignored me. They were laughing so loudly now.

The dog was moving faster towards baby Kobe.

I was sweating now with fear and yelled louder at his nanny. This time she heard me
and asked me what was it.
There was no time. There was no time!

I ran towards baby Kobe as fast as I could. Then I sighed with relief when I
reached his stroller and covered him with my body. I saved him.

Then I felt the sudden pang of sharp pain on my shoulder.

Aaargggghhhhhh!!!!! I groaned out loud.

Stella's POV

"Ooopss, careful." I bumped at Xander when I opened the main door of our house and
hurriedly went out without looking. He was my oldest brother â actually, five years
older than me. I was fifteen, so that made him twenty years old.

"Sorry." I headed to the car, where my driver was waiting.

"Where are you going?"

"To a friend's house. We're having a slumber party."

"Hey, did you ask permission from dad?" Xander grabbed my arm when I was about to
open the car door.

"Oh! Let me go." I pulled my arm away from him. "Of course. Dad knows and mom,
okay?"

"How many days will you be gone?" He asked, looking at my two-big Louis Vuitton
luggages loaded at the car's back compartment.

"I told you a slumber party, so I'll be gone overnight."

"Overnight? What the... why are you bringing big luggages?" His eyes widened. "Are
you sure you'll be gone overnight? It seems like you'll be gone for a year."

"OH! Men! I don't have to explain to you. You won't understand anyway. I have to go
now." I rushed inside the car and blew Xander a kiss. "Bye. See you tomorrow
morning."

He was frowning at me and scratching his head.

YES! No nannies and no bodyguards for the first time. And the most exciting part...
I'm going to meet Tristan. I bought many beautiful dresses so when Tristan sees me,
he'll be shocked seeing how pretty I am.. and then.. he'll instantly fall in love
with me.

I told mom that my classmate Mia Stewart's family was very rich. They lived in a
palace. Their house was surrounded with high powered electronic gates and there
were cameras everywhere. It would be a shame and an insult to them if I would be
bringing a nanny and a bodyguard.

"Turn left." I ordered my driver when we exited our mansion gates.

The driver coughed. "Um maam. I thought we're going to Beverly Hills."

"No, we're not. Just do what I say."

"But maam..."

"No buts, Johnson." I said firmly.

After twenty minutes, we entered a lower-class subdivision in California.

"Oh! I can't believe Mia lives here. The houses are so small... I thought she lives
in a big house, like ours."

"Are you sure you got the right address maam?" Johnson asked.

"Of course." I lifted my chin, looking at the houses that became smaller and
smaller... until we parked outside the smallest among the houses.

"Oh my goodness, that's the house?"

"I don't know. But we can leave now if you want maam."

"NO!" I cleared my throat. "I mean... whatever." I'm coming Tristan.

I got out of the car and headed to the main door of the house. Checking the house
number at the same time, making sure that I got it right.

I got it right. Mia opened the door.

"Stella!" I was caught off guard when she hugged me. "You came!"

Ew!!! She smelled like onion and GARLIC... with her sweat sticking on my cheek.
Nausea suddenly hit me. Oh.. I really hate garlics.

"Yeah. I told you I will." I inhaled deeply then smiled at her.

I was studying the interior of their house. It was so simple â a not so fancy sofa
set with a big TV screen in the living room and a wooden dining table. Although it
was neat and clean, but the house was so small. My room was even bigger than the
whole house.

"Maam... where will I put these?" Johnson asked - dragging my luggages with him to
the front door.

"Oh! Where will I put my bags?" I asked Mia who was scratching her head, looking at
my two luggages.

"Ah... I think we should put it here in the living room. It won't fit in my room."
She said with an apologic expression.

Johnson put my luggages in the living room, then immediately left. But I made him
promised first not to tell mom and dad my exact location.
He hesitated but eventually he agreed.

"Are you hungry? I made mac and cheese, onion rings and garlic bread."

Ew! GARLIC.

"I'm not hungry." I said looking at the doors. I wonder where is Tristan's room.

"What do you like?" Mia asked.

What I like? Tristan. That's the reason why I'm here. Where is he?

"Nothing... I'm full." I answered. Trying so hard to suppress my curiousity where

her brother was. My eye caught a blue shirt that lay on top of one of the
armchairs. Oh my goodness. That's Tristan's shirt!

"Are you sure?" Mia asked again.

"Yeah." I answered still eyeing the blue shirt.

"We will have a lot of fun tonight, Stella. I'm so excited!"

I smiled at her sarcastically. "Me too. Umm... Mia... Where will I sleep?"

"In my room. We'll share my bed. It's not big, but we'll fit on it. We're both
small." She smiled at me. "Come I'll show you, then you can start helping me with
Geometry."

"Yes, sure."

Mia left, but I stayed for a while in the living room. I immediately picked the
blue shirt and inhaled it so deeply.

Ew!! Super duper ew!! The shirt smelled so bad â like a combination of sweat,
garlic and wet socks that were left unwashed for a year.

I felt like vomitting because of the very bad smell... I gagged preventing myself
not to spit on the floor.

But still... I smelled it again, adjusting my senses to tolerate the bad smell.

Hmm... It doesn't matter. This shirt belongs to Tristan â my Tristan. The love of
my life. I smelled the shirt again and again, hugging it.

"Stella!"

Mia shouted. "Where are you?"

"I'm coming!"

Three hours later, I was done teaching Mia. I was sooo tired. I had a hard time
teaching her... She was right, she was so slow.

Whew! But I'm glad that she understood Geometry now and I was able to help her. I
had a nice feeling within me, being able to help her.

We had our dinner also â the mac and cheese, onion rings and garlic bread she made.
Ew! But I was really hungry, I didn't have a choice but to eat what was on the
table... there were no options.

I was lying on her single bed â so full. I wondered how we would fit sleeping on
this small bed. We wouldn't be able to move without bumping our bodies. Oh God... I
won't be able to sleep tonight. I was used sleeping alone on my big princess bed. I
was just thankful that her room was fully airconditioned.

I looked at the watch. It was almost nine in the evening. Where's Tristan?

I couldn't contain my curiosity any longer. I asked her. "Where's your br... um...
parents? Why are you alone here?"

Mia suddenly looked so sad. "Mom died two years ago."

"Oh! I'm sorry Mia." I sat up and leaned my back at the headboard.

"It's okay. I... I'm fine now." She was trying to hold back her tears.

I touched her hand and patted it. "Don't cry. So... um... you live with your
brother here?"

"My brother? Of course not. I live with my father. He works at nights."

Whoah! Wait... wait... wait...

"Your father? I thought you have a brother... Troy... Christian... Ethan... um...
what's his

name?" I pretended to forget Tristan's name, so I wouldn't be too obvious that my

brain was fully loaded with him.

"His name is Tristan." Mia smiled. "He doesn't live here."

"What?!" I was so shocked that my jaw dropped open. I thought... I thought... Oh my

God.... you... you.. um... grrrr....

"He visits me every Saturday night when he's here in California. But tonight, he's
going out with his friends."

"So, whose shirt was that on the armchair?" My heart was beating so fast. My whole
body was freaking out...

"The blue one? Oh I forgot. That's dad's shirt and I have to wash it tonight!" She
immediately stood up and ran outside the bedroom.

I felt like I was about to throw up. Ew!!! I also ran -- towards the bathroom and
forced myself to throw up.

Disappointed.

So disappointed.

Overly Disappointed.

Ew!
"Are you okay?" Mia asked me when she went back in her bedroom. I guessed she
already finished washing her dad's blue shirt.

"Yeah... yeah... I'm fine."

"You look so pale."

"Really?" I stood up and went to the mirror. I took my bag and dug for my lipgloss
and my blusher. Then I fixed my hair and my face.

Mia was staring at me, so fascinated from what I was doing. "You look so pretty
Stella. I wish I'm also pretty."

"You're very pretty Mia. You just don't know how to... um.. fix yourself."

"OH!" She smiled. "Can you teach me Stella? To do my hair and apply a little
makeup?"

"Of course. Come here, I'll make you so beautiful tonight, Cinderella."

We

laughed and the fun started.

I taught Mia how to apply makeup, to fix her hair, to pose and walk. Then, we
danced to the latest dance craze and made a video of ourselves â uploaded it in
Youtube. We stalked our classmates in Facebook and Instagram. We watched very funny
videos and sang our favorite songs. We had so much fun.

Before we went to sleep, I showed her my secret in having a beautiful clear and
flawless skin - my facial mud mask.

"This will remove all the blackheads, the dirt that clogged in our pores..." I
explained to her while applying the facial mud mask on my face.

Mia was laughing at me. "It's hard to recognize that it's you, Stella. Are you
going to leave it on the whole night?"

"Of course, to make it more effective. Do you want to try it?"

"No thanks. It will just crack up on my face. Besides, I easily get allergies in
any products. I don't want to take the risk."

"Ok fine. Whatever." I shrugged my shoulders. Then I combed my hair and put some
curlers on my hair, so I would have beautiful curls in the morning.

Where am I?

I looked at my surroundings â the floral wallpaper, floral curtain... everything

floral.

Oh silly me. I forgot I was in Mia's room.

I got up and checked the time in the alarm clock. It's 12:30 a.m.

I was so thirsty. So I went out of Mia's room and headed to the kitchen.
Sleepwalking.

I stood frozen when I saw someone in the kitchen, a guy.

He was bending over inside the fridge. The fridge light showed that he was naked
from the waist up. I stared at his back. He had a pretty lean muscular body... so
attractive.

I was drawn to him. Without being aware, I was moving towards him. Slowly.

Then he straightened up his tall frame, towering me.

He turned and faced me.

Oh my goodness. It's Tristan!

Tristan's eyes widened.

He looked so shocked seeing me. Good. The reaction I expected.

Then he shouted. Aaaaahhh!!!

Oh-oh... I forgot. I had my facial mud mask on my face!

Fail.

***Don't forget to Vote, Comment and Share to your friends.***

Love and kisses,

Neilani Alejandrino a.k.a. sweetdreamer33

=================

Chapter Four

Chapter Four (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here-

"Being deeply loved by someone gives you STRENGTH, while loving someone deeply
gives you COURAGE." - wordbypicture.com

Tristan's POV

"Stop crying man, there's nothing that you can do about it." My second cousin, Eros
Petrakis consoled me. "We're here for you. We're you're family."

"Don't worry Tristan. We won't leave you alone. We love you." Eros sister, Chloe
said, patting her small hand on my arm.

We were at the attic of our mansion in New York. I was crying so hard. I'd never
felt so miserable and alone in my whole life.

I was seventeen years old at that time. I just learned that my parents died,
together in a car accident - in Paris.

I was shocked, as well as everyone in our family - Marilyn especially, that my dad
Richard Latsis and my mom, his ex-wife, Belle Chandler

Stewart started seeing each other again, a few months ago before their tragic
accident.

Marilyn was hysterical and freaking out. Her spirit was broken, as well as her
heart - she felt so deceived. The house was in chaos after she destroyed everything
that she saw and had her hands on - her collection of antique vases, paintings,
furnitures and china wares. Dad's collection of very expensive wines and vintage
cars.

Her immediate family took her to the hospital, for the medical attention she badly
needed. They also took my younger brother, Kobe, who was ten years old at that
time.

The Petrakis family helped me. My uncle, Markos Petrakis and his wife, Aunt Nina
took care of everything. From sending the bodies of my parents - my father to New
York and my mother to New Zealand. They also took care of the wake of my father,
the funeral arrangements, then coordinating with the lawyer for the reading of the
will.

My stepmother, Marilyn didn't attend the funeral, as well as my brother, Kobe. I

heard that they left the country. Marilyn couldn't accept the fact that her beloved
husband betrayed her. That he went back to his ex-wife and died with her in his
arms.

I remembered when Marilyn looked at me, after she heard the news.

I felt her anger - her rage and fury.

I felt her murderous eyes on me, blazing like fire.

But I was immune. She never ever softened her heart on me. Even at that time I
saved Kobe from being bitten by a stray dog. She never thanked me. I was just lucky
that the dog didn't have any rabies.

Twice I told dad about Marilyn's attitude

towards me. But he just nodded and told me to be a good boy and act like a man -
and I always remembered that.

Women. I didn't like women like Marilyn, even my mother and other rich women I
knew. Vain, attention-seeker, fickle-minded, stubborn and sensitive. All they ever
wanted was to be beautiful and spend their husband's money. Even their daughters
were taught to act like them - practicing to be a rich man's wife.

But my sister, Mia, was different. Maybe because she was a poor man's daughter.

I met Mia for the first time during my mom's funeral in New Zealand - two days
after dad's.

Mia was only twelve years old at that time. She was crying so hard and was clasped
around her father's arms. She was wearing unfashionable long black dress, black
shoes and stockings. Even her hair ribbon was black. She resembled a nun in the
13th century minus the veil.

I learned that mom left her second husband, Mia's father - Lance Stewart, after
five years of marriage.

Despite being disowned by her father (my grandfather) Michael Chandler, Mom left
Mia to his care.

Grandpa and his wife, Dorothy, raised Mia while mom went to France to work and
Lance Stewart went back to his hometown in California.

Mia had a hard life. Dorothy was so strict to her. She wanted to raise Mia in a
primitive way.

Mia was deprived of phones or any gadgets. No TV and internet either. Just read
books about histories and literatures as her means of recreational activity. She
was living like she was born in a victorian era.

She was imprisoned inside the Chandler's mansion like a

monk. Her life centered in school, in the house and in the church. She was not
allowed to mingle with friends, go out for a walk, go to a movie or meet the other
relatives outside the house. She was not allowed to attend reunions and parties,
even in school - and mostly, she was not allowed to meet her father, Lance Stewart.

Dorothy punished Mia by depriving her of food. If she was bad, she was given a
piece of bread only and a glass of water.

I didn't know what psychotic nature Dorothy had, but I wanted to rescue my sister
away from her. I didn't want Mia to suffer anymore.

I needed money to get her out of grandfather's house. I didn't have enough, right
now. I only got one thousand dollars in my savings.

I thought I would be an extremely rich man after the lawyer read dad's will. But it
turned out, I didn't get any asset or money- only a letter from dad.

Yes. I was surprised when dad's will was read. Marilyn got the mansion - and all
the priceless things inside: the paintings, antique furnitures, Chinese
collections, the cars, etc. - unfortunately, she destroyed most of them. She also
got our houses in Rio de Janeiro, in Athens, Berlin, Manila, Singapore and Dubai.
She would receive one hundred million-dollars and assets worth of a billion was set
in trust for Kobe.

I read dad's letter in tears. At first he told me how much he loved me and that I
was his ONLY son, in blood. I was confused at first, but as I went on reading, I
learned that Marilyn was pregnant with another man's child when dad married her.

Therefore, Kobe was not my brother - by blood. I felt my heart twisted with raw
pain. I was so disappointed that I stopped reading and just stared at the wall.
Then I realised, in blood or not, it didn't matter at all, Kobe was still my
brother.

I continued reading the letter - and there were instructions. My lawyer would

provide my expenses - enough money for my tuition fees and miscellaneous school
expenses, board and lodging, etc. I would pursue the course I wanted to take in
college and finished the degree at the designated time.

The letter ended with some advices and saying- the struggle you're in today is
developing the strength you need for tomorrow.

I groaned out aloud and I couldn't stop myself from crying again, this time in
anger and frustration.

No money. No inheritance. No family.

I felt so alone and disappointed.

I thought he loved me.

***

I returned to the U.S. and worked hard day and night, so I could save money to get
Mia. Her father, Lance couldn't save money because he was also supporting his
father's rehabilitation. There was no enough money left from his salary as janitor
for his personal expenses.

I couldn't borrow money from my rich relatives. I have pride. They knew that I
didn't inherit anything from my father, and they were very eager to provide
everything I needed - the car, the accommodation, the travel, the luxury, etc.

Pity. That's what they felt for me now.

I didn't need their pity. I loathed pity. It was only for the weak.
My mother's will stated that I could get the trust fund she allotted for me at the
age of twenty five. For heaven's sakes, that's eight years more to go.

I experienced working at McDonalds as a crew, then a hotel bell boy, a gasoline

boy, a dishwasher, a waiter, a janitor, etc.

Then finally, a friend offered me to work in their ranch in Arizona, to take care
of their horses. I grabbed the opportunity because I loved horses and the salary
was really good.

Besides, one of the best Universities for Aviation College Degree was in Arizona.
It was my dream to take up International Flight Pilot Training since I was a kid.

It was more than a year when my dream of getting Mia was realized. I had a problem
with Dorothy - she wouldn't let Mia go. She brainwashed Mia, then used emotional
blackmail on her.

The first time I went to New Zealand to get Mia, I failed. After a year, I finally
got her. That was the most happiest day of my life.

I loved my sister. I would do anything to make her happy.

Now that she was reunited with her father and me, we would always protect her.

I swear. I wouldn't let anyone hurt her anymore.

***Don't forget to vote, comment and share to your friends***

Love and Kisses,

Neilani Alejandrino

a.k.a. sweetdreamer33

=================

Chapter Five
Chapter Five (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here-

"The best feeling in the world is kissing someone for the first time, when you've
really wanted to kiss them for a long time." --- from: Style Estate, Pinterest

Stella

Eight Years Earlier

I was so embarrassed that I wanted to cry. I hoped a UFO would arrive at that
moment and a very bright sucking blue-ray light would appear and take me out of
that situation.

Oh God, help me....

The kitchen lights turned on.

I ran to the kitchen sink and washed the facial mud mask off my face. I even used
the dishwashing soap to remove the hardened mud out.

This is so humiliating, a deflated feeling. I grabbed a paper towel and wiped the
water off my face.

I shyly turned around and saw Tristan already looking at me. My breath quickened
and my cheeks became warm.

Tristan instantly laugh. He laughed out loud at me, bending over and holding the
sides of his belly with his hands. He was gasping for breath because of
uncontrollable laughter.

My embarrassment was immediately replaced with annoyance. How could he? He was
laughing at me. Hmp!

"Will you stop laughing at me?"

"Oh God... I've never laughed so hard in my life... I couldn't help myself.... I've
never seen anyone... looking so... ridiculous. You looked like one of the zombies
in the Walking Dead TV series." He said, still laughing in between his words.

"Okay fine. I'm glad I entertained

you. Goodnight." I snapped angrily at him then headed back to Mia's bedroom. The
attraction I felt for him suddenly faded. A zombie, huh!

"Wait, Stella." He said, still laughing.

I was surprised that he knew my name. I faced him again - frowning.

"You know my name?"

"Who wouldn't? Mia kept on talking about you." He grinned then grabbed a chair
behind a table and sat down.

"Really? Why?" I moved closer to the table and clasped my hands to the chair
opposite to where he was sitting. His gaze immediately run over me in a leisurely
sweep.

"She worships you. She talks a lot about you. How smart, rich, fashionable,
talented and pretty you are. She thinks you're perfect."

PERFECT. Since birth, I was trying to achieve being a perfect daughter. It was what
my parents molded me to be.

"Me? Perfect? That's funny."

"Yeah, it is. Perfect is boring." Tristan's eyes slitted.

Perfect is boring? Wait until my parents hear you say that!

I pleased my parents for being perfect. Polished, cultured and aristocrat with
royal blood, who never went wrong in using a cutlery in any course.

"So, you're not vain?"

"Vain? Of course not. I have lots of flaws." I lied.

"Well, this will be a first time for me. I've never met an extremely rich girl who
is not a supreme narcissist before." He drank his milk.

I just shrugged my shoulders and smiled at him.

"Oh... I'm sorry, do you like some milk?" He asked me.

"No, thanks. Actually, I'm thirsty." I moved towards the fridge but Tristan went
ahead of me. He took a bottle of water and a glass.

sat down on a chair looking at Tristan who was pouring water to a glass. He looked
so sinfully gorgeous standing there - half naked. I stared at his abdominal V
lines, which was angled at my eye level. Gosh! My heart contracted. What a
beautiful sight.

He shove the glass of water towards me. "Here." Then he sat down opposite me.

I drank the water slowly. My eyes never leaving him - and he was looking at me in
odd silence.

"How old are you?"

Fifteen. No... sixteen... um... eighteen?

I wanted to lie about my age. I exactly didn't know for what reason... maybe, I was
hoping for him to like me if I was older and nearer to his age - legal to have a
boyfriend.

"Fifteen." Yes, I told him the truth. I couldn't lie. He would find out anyway from
Mia.

He took a deep breath then exhaled heavily before he stood up abruptly. "Go to
sleep, it's past midnight."

Is he dismissing me? I think that's rude. Did I say something wrong?

Instead of going to Mia's bedroom I went to the fridge and scan the contents
inside. I saw a box of Oreos and took it out.

Tristan's eyes followed my movements.

"Um... I'm hungry." I said to him, trying to sound so innocent.

His face diverted to the living room, where my two big luggages were. "Are those
yours?"

My eyes opened wide. I nodded then put a whole Oreo in my mouth.

"Did you run away from your home?"

I shook my head.

"Are you moving in here?"

I swallowed hard, feeling embarrassed again. "NO! I'm... I'm only staying for a
night."

"A night?" He chuckled

then left me alone in the kitchen.

Oh-oh... He doesn't like me.

Since our first meeting, Tristan gave me an impression that he didn't like me.
Whenever we met, he just nodded at me. Sometimes, he ignored me as if I never
existed. I wondered why? I haven't done anything wrong to him and Mia. He just
decided to dislike me.

I was hurt and felt so offended. I didn't understand him. What's his problem? He's
acting so immature... I wonder if he's gay.

Days turned to weeks... to months and years. The attraction I felt for Tristan
faded. I started to dislike him too, immensely, to the point that I hated him
already - but I decided to be civil about it.

***

When I turned eighteen, I had a grand debut party. It was a very big event that
almost all the extremely rich people: blue-blooded families, celebrities and famous
personalities all over the world gathered.

I invited Mia and Tristan.

It had been a long time since I saw Tristan, almost a year. I heard from Mia that
he already graduated flight school and he was now working in an airline company.

Tristan looked so different now. I hardly recognized him. He resembled a suave,

sophisticated posh guy from a GQ magazine cover now. Gone was the rugged guy who
wore faded ripped jeans and old shirt with messed up hair.

But one thing that didn't change in him - his oozing sex appeal.

How many women had fallen for that lethally gorgeous face and impossibly sexy body?
That compelling brilliant blue eyes that made any girl's knees weak.

Oh! I cringed at the thought of how I had fallen for

his charms once. But I swore, I would never ever fall for him again.

"Hello, Stella."

I turned around to see Tristan looking at me, smiling.

A miracle just happened. He was actually smiling at me, for the first time in
years. No nods, no shrugs and not ignoring me as if I didn't exist. I wondered if
he skipped breakfast and lunch OR, he was drunk.

"Hi." I looked up at him. He was so tall. Despite my five-inch stiletto heels, he

was still towering me.

"Happy birthday."

"Thanks." I answered.

"You look very beautiful."

"Thanks." I gave him a sarcastic smile.

He looked around the grand ballroom and said. "Umm... nice party."

"Thanks."

He chuckled. "Is that all you're going to say to me, thanks? You must really hate
me."

"Isn't that what you want? You didn't give a reason to like you at all." I snapped
at him.

Tongue-tied with eyes wide opened. He looked like he was splashed with very cold
water.

"Speechless, huh?"

He looked around again then said. "I have my reasons."

"What reasons? I'm sure you won't tell me. You just decided to dislike me."

"Shh... not here, Stella." He said while looking at the other guests around us.
Then drew me towards the balcony, where we were alone. He guided me towards the end
of the railings where no one would see us.
"I don't understand. I haven't said anything against you or Mia. I tried my best to
be a good friend to her." I said the moment we were alone.

"I know."

"Why do you hate me so much?"

"I don't hate you." He said immediately.

"You don't have to

pretend, it's too obvious. You avoided me as if I have a contagious disease."

"God knows I didn't want to avoid you."

"Don't you ever involve God into this." I blurted at him.

"I'm sorry. I..." He groaned and grabbed my arm in an instant. Then he swung me
towards him, in the circle of his arms.

My heart skyrocketed and my pulse was beating so fast. I stood frozen on the floor.
My whole body from the tip of my toes to the tip of my hair trembled. I was
electrified.

The feel of his arms around me, his body touching mine was so oozingly delicious
that all my nerves and cells tingled. The sensation it brought to my body was so
new that I didn't want it to stop. So earthshaking.

"I'm sorry. I was a coward and very insecure. I was still struggling and fighting
to become independent. I lost my mom and dad... and then there was Mia. I didn't
know what I felt anymore at that time." He put his head against mind and our breath
mingled.

"What are you trying to say?" I was confused. I didn't understand what he was
saying.

"The first time I met you, that afternoon in your school, I pretended not to notice
you." He shook his head and smiled. "I told myself, you're just another rich
pampered pretty girl. But, I couldn't understand why I kept on thinking about you.
All... all I've ever think about was you. How you looked that day, so beautiful
like an angel walking towards me. You took my breath away... and turned my world
upside down. I tried to fight my feeling towards you, but it was so hard." He
touched my hair, my cheek, then my lips.

"Tristan... I was

thinking of you too. I felt the same way."

"Really?"

I nodded and smiled at him. I felt so happy at that moment. I couldn't believe that
he felt the same way like I did.

"I'm tired of fighting anymore Stella. I decided to stop the battle between my mind
and my heart."

Tristan held my eyes then slowly his face came nearer. I didn't know who initiated
first but our lips instantly met.
He kissed me briefly and gently. My first kiss.

His scent... his touch... and his taste... ohhh God. I'm melting.

***

"Stella, you didn't tell me that you know Tristan Latsis." My dad, Rafael Valiente
said while we were dancing in the grand ballroom.

"You know Tristan?"

"Of course. That boy is extremely rich. No doubt the wealthiest here in this room,
even the entire planet."

"What? You're wrong dad. Tristan is Mia's stepbrother. He's not rich. He used to
work in a ranch training horses." I informed him.

"Yeah, before he got his inheritance a few months ago. It was his father's wish for
Tristan to finish college and learn to live independently. He believed that the
more struggles his son got, the more he would succeed in life." Dad swayed me
around the dance floor and I just followed his steps.

I was dumbstruck. I couldn't believe what dad said. Tristan is extremely wealthy?
No, not Tristan.

"Oh, it's Eros turn to dance with you, princess." Dad interrupted my thoughts and
gave my hand to Eros.

Eros Petrakis. The guy my parents wanted me to marry. He was the son of famous
Greek businessman billionaire Markos Petrakis.

Eros was about twenty two years old. He was tall, tan with magnificent physique -
very handsome with magnetic silvery eyes. His profile was sharp and confident. He
had long dark brown hair tied in a knot behind his head and oddly long mustache.

"Hello, Stella. May I have this dance?" Eros asked and held my hand softly.

"Of course." I was still disoriented. What my dad said about Tristan made me so
confused.

Eros guided me to the dance floor. He held me closely to him and together we swayed
in rhyme with the music.

"I salute you Stella." He grinned at me. "Because... you were able to convince my
cousin to come here tonight."

"Huh?"

"You see, he never attended any social gatherings, events and parties. He prefers
to stay out of public. But now, wow.. it's the first time I've seen him attending a
huge party like this."

"Well, good for him... um... who's your cousin?"

"Tristan Latsis."

I was shocked again. First, that Tristan came from a wealthy family, then now, he
was Eros cousin. What other secret would I find out about him, I wondered.
Before our dance was over, I saw Tristan at the corner of the room staring at us.
The next moment I looked at the same spot he was standing... it was empty.

Later that evening, I realized. He left without even saying goodbye.

What is wrong with him now?

***Don't forget to vote, comment and share to your friends***

Love and kisses,

Neilani Alejandrino

a.k.a.

sweetdreamer33

=================

Chapter Six

Chapter Six (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here-

"They told me that to make her fall in love, I have to make her laugh. But
everytime she laughs, I'm the one who falls in love." -Tommaso Ferraris
Tristan

"Tristan, she's pretty insistent. She's asking for your phone number." Mia said
over the phone.

"I said no, Mia."

"Why don't you talk to her? What's going on? Is there something that I should
know?"

"Nothing's going on, I just don't want to talk to her."

"Why? Stella is my close friend and it's rude if you won't talk to her." Mia's
voice rose in octave. "She probably just want to ask a favor from you."

"A favor?"

"Yes... No... I don't know. I don't understand why you don't want to talk to her."

"I have my own reasons."

"Reasons? Give me one."

"You don't have to know. I'm busy Mia, bye."

"Wait! What am I going to tell her? I'm not good in lying."

"Just tell her the truth that I'm very busy... or tell her that I don't want to
talk to her... or tell her that what I said was a mistake." I heaved a long sigh
and walked towards the stable.

"A mistake? What did you say to her?"

"It's none of your business Mia. "

"Tristan, it is my business. You're the only family that I've got and Stella is my
close friend. I want both of you to be friends - to connect."

"That's impossible. I really have to go. Bye Mia."

"Tristan..."

I put my cellphone back inside my pants pocket. I exhaled heavily.

Stella

Valiente is a mistake. A distraction that I don't need in my life now. Damn, I was
stupid.

I told myself several times to stay away from her... she was a pampered princess...
pretty little spoiled brat. She probably would be like mom, who only thought about
shopping, going to a beauty salon, travelling and spending money. Or she would be
like Marilyn - a certified bitch.

But all the logic and reasonings stored in my brain flew away when I saw how
beautiful she was on her 18th birthday. I was enthralled by her charms, her lovely
face and her half girl-half woman sexy glorious body.

I tried to fight the attraction I felt for her. She was young, beautiful, very rich
and a member of a blue-blooded aristocrat family. Obviously, she would marry
someone who belonged to an extremely wealthy family also.

Before I inherited dad's wealth. I was very positive that there would never be a
chance between Stella and me. I knew she would just laugh at me if I declare my
true feelings for her. A boy who worked in a ranch feeding and training horses
wouldn't quality even at the bottom of of her checklist. Even her family wouldn't
allow their princess to marry someone they considered a pauper - based on their
overly highly statues. If only my dad inherited some of his wealth and shared some
of what he gave to Marilyn and Kobe to me.

BUT, four months ago when I graduated fly school- my life changed.

Dad's lawyer appeared again. He gave me my inheritance and a letter, from dad.

I didn't know what I felt at that moment.

Whether to be happy or angry. For almost five years, my dad deprived me of my

inheritance... the money that I should have enjoyed just like Marilyn and Kobe.

I couldn't help but imagined the struggles that I've been through. Working
different jobs to save money for my basic needs and Mia's allowance, and saving a
little for the future.

But I understood after reading dad's letter. The saying he quote again finally
instilled in my mind. "The struggle you're in today is developing the strength you
need for tomorrow."

Dad wanted me to struggle to learn. The more a person experienced the struggles in
life, the more he would mature and obtain wisdom. Things can't be achieved easily
if you do not put hard work into it.

"Tristan, as my only son and child, I passed on to you everything that I inherited
from our ancentors. You can do whatever you want with it... I trust you now son
that you experienced what life is with only a penny in your pocket. I know you
became more responsible and mature... I am so proud of you son. I love you so
much."

Yes, I cried again that day. I've never felt so lonely in my entire life.

***

In an instant, I became a very rich young man.

I inherited gold bars stored in Switzerland, England, America, Canada, Dubai,
Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. Aside from that, there was a huge amount of
money - in billions, deposited in Swiss Bank and Bank of America, under my name.

Numerous stocks and investments were transferred in my name and managed by dad's
trusted brilliant employees.

I was surprised how wealthy my dad was. For a multi-billionaire, he surely lived

a low profile. No wonder he pampered my mom with shopping. It was just a few
pennies compared to his massive wealth.

I also found out that the ranch I was working at Arizona was actually owned by my
dad. Mr. Hernandez, whom I thought was the owner, was only the caretaker. He knew
who I really was and coordinated with the lawyer to monitor my actions. The workers
there were actually hired to protect me. They were either ex-marines, previous
military and My friend who recommended me to work in the ranch also connived with
them.

***

Everything was overwhelming and so sudden. I was still shocked from the turnout of
events.

I decided to take everything so slow and lived a simple life. I still lived in the
ranch, in the same room, near the stable - my only comfort zone. I still cleaned,
fed and trained the horses during my free time.

Every day I worked as a trainee in an airline company. I trained to fly commercial

flight planes and private planes.

Soon. I would have my own airfield and planes.

Stella

I arrived at Tristan's doorstep after three hours of driving my new convertible red
car - Actually my dad's gift on my 18th birthday.

Another birthday gift I received was freedom - for two days and two nights. No
chaperones, nannies and bodyguards following behind me. No GPRS monitoring or
whatsoever.

I grabbed the opportunity of seeing Tristan at his ranch in Arizona. It was a long
drive, but I took the risk.

I believed in True Love.

"True love isn't easy. But it must be fought

for. Because once you find it, it can never be replaced."

BUT, Mia wouldn't give me his number. Darn... She was such a disappointment for a
bestfriend. She preferred to be loyal to his brother.

But it's okay, I understand her. Maybe I would do the same if I was in her shoes.

I felt so sticky. The hot air combined with the dust were sticking on my waist-
length hair and skin. My white dainty shirt became dirty white. Too good that I
wore dark denim blue jeans, it wouldn't show the dirt on it.

I was surprised to hear a very loud music coming inside the big house. It was a big
concrete house located near the entrance of the ranch.

I knocked but nobody answered. I knocked again louder this time, but there was no
one opening the door. I looked for a doorbell, but couldn't find one.
I looked around and saw the same group of civilian men at the ranch entrance,
probably watching the place. One man signalled me to open the door and I did.

Oh! It was open.

I was surprised to see a lot of people inside the house - partying. They were
drinking beer, some couples were dancing and making out. Others were laughing and
talking so loudly, like they were yelling already - the music was so loud.

"Hi baby, you're so cute." A guy blocked my way at the doorway.

I lifted my chin and eyed him up and down. His arms were covered with tattoos.
"Where's Tristan?"

He smiled and winked at me. "He's busy. Maybe you like to hang out with me? I'm
available." He ran a finger on my arm.

"No thanks." I snapped at him. "Where is he? I need to talk to him." I shouted so
he could hear me

clearly.

"You have to wait. He's busy right now." The guy shouted back.

"Busy? Doing what? Is this his party?"

"Yeah." The guy replied.

"Is he working?"

"Nope."

"Then he's not busy. Show me where Tristan is, now."

"You're so bossy, baby. He's in a meeting." He laughed. "Come on, let's have some
cold beer then go to the pool to cool you off."

"This is very important. A matter between life and death. Where is Tristan!" I
shouted at the top of my lungs.

The guy looked so surprised and frowned at me. "Okay." He shrugged his shoulders
then led me inside the house. "This way."

I followed the guy. The place was crowded with young men and women. Some were drunk
already and it was still early in the afternoon. There was a big pool outside the
balcony, crowded with bikini cladded women and men in trunks - they were having
fun.

Then I saw him. The man of my dreams. My future. My everything. The man who would
be my husband and father of my kids. The man I would fight for. The man I would
marry... no matter who my parents chose for me as a husband. I would fight for
Tristan, no matter what the consequence would be... till death.

Tristan was sitting on a couch. He was drinking beer. Two bikini cladded girls
clung in his arms. The other girl was whispering something in his ear and he
suddenly laughed - a joke?

I stood in front of him. I was raging with jealousy and very furious at the same
time. I shouldn't have come here. Damn him! This is embarrassing.

"Tristan, someone's looking for you. A chick. She

said it's important."

Tristan immediately looked at me. He was surprised to see me. The laughter in his
face suddenly died.

I eyed the two girls who were clinging on him like leeches.

He noticed my eyes and immediately pulled his arms away from the girls. His eyes
met mine disparagingly. "What are you doing here?"

"We need to talk, Tristan." I said then bit down hard on my lower lip.

"There's nothing to talk about."

"Tristan..."

"Go home Stella. I don't need you in my life. What I said was wrong."

"What is wrong about loving. It's a magical thing. Tristan, I feel the same way."

"HA! Stop dreaming Snow White. I'm not in love with you. I was drunk that night."
He laughed and hugged one of the girls - kissing her lips.

I felt the squeezing pain, so sharp, like stabbing my heart to the deepest end. It
was so hard to breathe. Oh God, how could he do this to me. I hate him. I hate him.

I wanted to cry, to shout... to crawl and hide. Anything to get away from him, from
this place and the humiliation.

I looked around. Everyone was looking at me. They were eyeing me up and down -
laughing. I've never been so embarrassed in my whole life. I felt like I was a
piece of dirt... stomped and rejected.

I turned around to go, but he stopped me by saying.

"Oh... to make you feel better, I kinda find you so cute. But sorry princess...
you're not the only one I've said 'I love you' that

night. So don't make it a big deal."

I ran away to get out of the house in a hurry. Far away from the house and Tristan.
I was so hurt. I wanted to be alone, find a place where I could cry out the pain
and licked my wounds. It was so overwhelming that it was suffocating me. I didn't
know that loving could bring so much pain... it felt like dying inside.

Two guys stopped me from going out of the door. One guy grabbed my waist and the
other one held my arms.

"If Tristan won't have you, then you're mine." One guy said.

"You're so cute. What's your named." The other guy who held my arms asked.

"No. Let me go." I struggled away from them, but they held me so tightly.
"Please... don't."

Then there was a sudden blow of fist aimed at the guy's face who held my waist.
Another blow to the guy who held my arms. They were thrown on the floor, groaning
with pain.

It was Tristan who knocked the two guys. His eyes looked murderous at them.

"Nobody touches her... do you hear me!" He shouted at the two guys then looked at
everyone. "Party's over. All of you, get out!"

Like a flash of lightning, everyone ran out of the house. The once crowded and
noisy room abruptly became empty and solemn.

I turned around and followed everyone. But Tristan grabbed my arm, preventing me
from leaving.

"NO!" I yelled at him.

Tristan locked his gaze on mine. His eyes looked like he was begging for
understanding and a sad expression was visible on his face.
I couldn't prevent my tears from falling down on my cheeks anymore. I cried... and
I didn't care anymore if he saw how hurt I was.

"Stella, please."

"DON'T. TOUCH. ME." I glared at him angrily then looked at his hand on my arm.

He took his hand away from me, like he was burned. "I'm sorry I hurt you. I didn't
mean what I've said... it's my fault Stella, please forgive me... what can I do to
make it right?"

I refused to listen to him. The wound was so deep and the pain was escalating.

One thing I realized that day. Tristan was not worth fighting for. If I marry
someone, it wouldn't be for love.

My parents was right, I should marry Eros Petrakis.

***Don't forget to Vote, Comment and Share to everyone."

Love and Kisses,

Neilani Alejandrino

a.k.a.

sweetdreamer33
=================

Chapter Seven

Chapter Seven (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here-

"The emotion that can break your heart is sometimes the very one that heals it..."
- Nicholas Sparks

***Three years later***

Tristan

"She's beautiful, right?" I heard my uncle, Markos Petrakis said behind me.

"Yeah." I smiled, watching my cousin, Eros danced with Stella in the dancefloor.

"Eros will marry Stella someday."

What!? Did I hear him right?

I suddenly felt like being splashed with cold water. I didn't know that there was
something going on between Eros and Stella. When did this happen?

"Really?"
"Of course." Uncle Markos tapped my shoulder.

"Eros didn't tell me that Stella is his girlfriend."

He laughed. "Nothing's going on between them. Not yet."

"What do you mean?" I insisted.

"Well... Eros and Stella were arranged to get married."

The moment I found out about Stella's arranged marriage with Eros still lingered in
my mind - and that even happened three years ago. I couldn't help it, especially
tonight, because after three years, I would see Stella again.

It was Mia's twenty first birthday.

I didn't have a choice but to be here in our California mansion for her dinner
party. Because I was absent on her last two birthdays. I was at New Zealand.

When our grandpa, Michael Chandler died two years ago, Mia and I inherited acres of
land and a dairy farming business

in Wellington, New Zealand.

I stayed in New Zealand for two years, met my grandpa' dairy farmers and studied
the cattle business: feed, care for, and milk herds of cows on farms. We aimed to
get the cows to produce as much high quality milk as possible, cost-effectively.

It was so hard to leave the place. They needed me to run the business, the place
was so beautiful and the people were very friendly. It was so easy to get along
with them. Besides, my mom's family were in New Zealand and they helped me feel at
home.

Yep, I brought all my horses from Arizona to New Zealand and my dog Rocky. Even my
old maroon truck. I settled in a small old wooden house in the ranch. Nothing fancy
but very cozy.

Living a simple life made me happy - peace and quite with only the sound of rain or
chirping birds you'd hear in the morning. The air smelled so clean and fresh. I
loved nature and I welcomed the light showers on my hair and dirts on my hands and
shoes.

I put up my own airfield too. I hired professional pilots and skilled staffs. I
bought small planes that transported few passengers to nearby places - mostly
catered to tourists.

***

I was in the study room, making phone calls and opened my email. I even answered
some important emails rightaway. The others, I would just leave it to my personal
assistant, Jeff.

I knew that some of Mia's guest already arrived. I could hear the commotions
outside the room - and the giggles and laughters of girls.

I joined the guests in the living room. There were about sixteen of them, mostly
girls.
And of course, the first person I immediately noticed was Stella.

Who wouldn't? She was astonishing and took my breath away as always. Everytime I
see her, she became more and more beautiful - especially now that she was twenty
one. Still so prim and proper in her light blue dress, very sophisticated and
classy like royalty. But I know that there was a sensual and passionate woman
behind that shell.

Too bad... just too bad...

I respect my cousin, Eros, uncle Markos and aunt Nina. I wouldn't do anything to
hurt their family. If Stella is for Eros, then let it be.

I greeted the guests... and Stella was avoiding me. She pretended not to see me.
When I went near her, she moved to the other way. She totally ignored me.

But she couldn't avoid me anymore during dinner. Surprisingly, we were seated next
to each other. She was the last one who came in in the dining room and she didn't
have a choice but to sit to the only vacant chair, which was beside me.

"Hello Stella. Long time no see." I greeted her.

She just looked at me and raised one eyebrow - then dismissed me immediately. I
felt belittled.

Damn it. She was acting like a bitch.

"Okay. I got it. You still hate me. I couldn't believe that after three years, you
still can't move on." I provoked her.

"Excuse me? Don't think so highly of yourself mister." She glared at me angrily
then said in a soft tone. "FYI, there's nothing to move on. Anyway, you're better
off with your bimbos."

"Ouch. You are still bitter."

"Why should I? You're nothing to me."

"I know. But

can we at least be friends? For the sake of Mia?"

She ignored me again.

Dinner was served and Stella shifted her attention to the rest of the guests in the
table. She was laughing and giggling - obviously having fun.

I turned my attention to Poppy, who was sitting on my left side of the table. She
was also Mia's and Stella's classmate in high school. I already met her several
times before. But tonight was the first time that we really talked.

I enjoyed talking to Poppy. She was bubbly and very entertaining to talk with. She
travelled a lot with her father, who was a U.S. Senator. We continued talking even
after dinner.

I was in the minibar drinking whiskey when Stella approached me.

"Stay away from Poppy. She's a sweet girl. She couldn't handle men like you."
"Men like me? What do you mean by that statement?"

She sneered at me then sipped the flute of champagne she was holding.

I had enough of her belittling me. Her behavior started to annoy me.

"You're acting like a bitch."

Her eyes immediately widened then threw the champagne on my face. "I may be a
bitch, but I am not your bitch."

Shit! I dug my hankerchief in my pant's pocket and wiped my face. I was losing my
patience. I grabbed her arm and led her outside the living room.

"Take your filthy hand off me, you bastard!" She wiggled her arm out from my grasp
but to no avail.

"We need to talk." I kept my hand on her small arm.

"No way. There's nothing to talk, you... you..."

"Is everything okay?" Mia asked. We bumped at her on our way out to the garden.

"Yeah.

We just need some fresh air." I dragged Stella and it was a relief that she was not
protesting anymore.

Stella's POV

I hate him. I really hate him! I wished I didn't come here tonight and just joined
my parents on their trip to Canada. But, Mia would be very disappointed. Gosh! I
don't want her sad. She's my best friend.

Meeting Tristan again brought back the bitter memories three years ago. I was so
stupid believing in him that he loved me. That bastard just played with my naïve
heart. I even went to his ranch in Arizona, for goodness sake! I couldn't imagine
how stupid I was. I drove all alone to Arizona with my new covertible car... and to
think I was just 18 at that time!

I ignored him... pretending that I didn't saw him the moment he came in in the
living room this evening. I stayed as far as I could, away from him. I didn't want
my evening ruined because of him. I was with my besties and we were enjoying Mia's
birthday party. We were here to celebrate.

BUT... Oh God help me... I really didn't want to see him again... nor talked to him
ever again... and the mere mention of his name made my temper flared. He made me
feel so cheap... like a dumbstruck teenager chasing after him.

I didn't know what happened... such an unfortunate event that we were seated next
to each other. I shouldn't have gone to the bathroom to fix the loose tendrils of
my ponytail.

And oh my God... he was talking to me and saying that I still couldn't move on.
What a jerk! He thought that I couldn't get over him!
Okay, I admit. He's strikingly attractive... have a gorgeous body... very smart...
silent type that made him look mysterious... and he's extremely rich... but ugh!
I'm immune to guys like him. Looks doesn't really matter, it's the attitude. And
his attitude is rated below zero!

"You're hurting me!"

Tristan immediately took his hand off me the moment we arrived at the garden. I
rubbed my arm from the burning sensation of his touch - that still lingered on my
skin.

"I'm sorry." He said.

"You're sorry? Sorry... sorry...? Sorry is not enough for what you did to me!"

"Wait. Are we back to what happened three years ago?" He rubbed his forehead
looking so confused.

"Whatever." I moved away from him and went to the farthest end of the garden, to
the gazebo. "Just stay away from Poppy. I don't want her hurt. She's my friend."

"You think I'll hurt her?"

"I know you will. You'll just play with her heart." I faced him again.

"Ah... just like I played yours." He sneered at me. Bastard!

I clasped my arms together and snapped at him. "Good that you know."

"HA! Good that I know huh? You have the nerve to say that when you were the one who
played with my feelings."

My eyes widened in shock. He was unbelievable, turning the table on me. "And how
did that happened? You were the one who declared your feelings for me that night...
and suddenly, you changed your mind! You left without even saying goodbye. You led
me on, thinking I was special."

"You are special Stella. I always find you so special." He said softly. His
expression changed like there was pain in his eyes.

"Don't say that, you're leading me on again. And you're just making me hate you
more." I poked his chest with my finger.

"You hate me and you'll never stop hating me. Can we just forgive and forget?"

"You think that's easy? I can never forget what you did to me, you bastard! You
made me feel so cheap. No one ever did this to me, but you!" I pushed his chest
with my both hands.

He held my wrists and pulled me closer to him. "What will I do to make you stop
hating me, Stella."

"There's nothing you can do. I hate you!" I almost yelled at him.

"Hit me." He held on to my hands and made me slapped his face.

I pulled my hands away, but he was holding on it so tightly.

"Come on. Hit me. If that would make you feel better. At least you will hate me
less." He made me slapped his face again and again - so hard.

"No! Stop!" I clenched my fist pulling my hands away from him. "Just leave me
alone. I don't want to see you or talk to you again. Nothing in this world could
make me hate you less." I blurted at him.

"So fine. Hate me more." He said and pulled me in his arms again.

I was shocked when his mouth instantly covered mine and kissed me deeply and
passionately.

**Don't forget to vote, comment and share to your friends.**

Love and kisses,

Neilani Alejandrino (SWEETDREAMER33)

GRAB YOUR COPY NOW!

Dare to fall in love and explore your sensual side as Sizzle Summit Media Books
uncovers another erotic romance story.

Love. Opulence. Passion

MY POSSESSIVE BILLIONAIRE

By: Neilani Alejandrino (SWEETDREAMER33)

(English, P195)

Available nationwide in bookstores, convenience stores and online via with digital
copies available for download via @buqoapp.

=================

Chapter Eight

Chapter Eight (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here-

"Love is a cycle. When you love, you get hurt. When you get hurt, you hate. When
you hate, you try to forget. When you try to forget, you start missing... and when
you start missing... you'll eventually fall in love again."

Tristan

"Where are you? Why the hell didn't you tell me that you moved out of the house!" I
yelled over the phone.

"I'm sorry...."

"For Christ's sake, Mia. What is wrong with you?" I was so upset arriving this
morning in our California mansion after four months of absense and finding my
sister, Mia gone. Lance Stewart, my stepfather and Mia's biological dad was left in
the house with the housekeepers. "I did everything for you and you're repaying me
with this!"

"Tristan, let me explain."

"You should give me a good explanation young lady... I can't believe you did this
to me. You even told Lance and the rest of the staffs here to keep this a secret
from me, huh?"

"I'm really really sorry Tristan. It was just for a meantime... I... I'm going tell
you... eventually... I'm just waiting for the right timing." Mia stammered.
"Right timing? HA! Where are you now? Tell me!"

"I... I... um... I... I'm still here in California... um... with Stella."

"Stella?" My tone mellowed down hearing Stella's name. I felt relieved. I thought
she was with someone... a boy... a

man... whatever... who would promise her the world, the sun, moon and the stars...
and in the end, dump her.

Oh God! I was getting paranoid. I had weird imaginations on where Mia was right
now. I couldn't accept the fact that she was growing up and moving out of my care.
Yes, I was very protective of her - more than protective of her own father, Lance.
I loved my little sister, and she was the only biological family that I've got.

"You don't have to move out when you're just staying here in California." I said to
her. I couldn't help being suspicious all of a sudden. What the hell is she up to?
And why keeping this a secret?

"I know... but I just want to be independent, do things on my own. I'm twenty one
now Tristan and I want you to treat me like a grown up woman." She explained and
sounding firm - like a mature woman.

I heaved a frustrated sigh. She was right. I was still treating her like she was
twelve years old. I guess it was time to accept the fact that she was finally a
woman.

"Okay... if that's what you want. But you should have told me before moving out. I
feel bad that you're keeping this a secret from me."

"I'm sorry.... You are always so busy and I don't want to bother you... and...
okay... to be honest, I was scared too. You know... you have a terrible temper."

"Terrible temper? You know me so well Mia, I just don't like people lying to me."

She was suddenly silent. I knew something's going on there. Then I heard a man's
voice.

Damn it!

"Mia! I thought you're with Stella? Who is that?" I felt my blood rose suddenly

going up to my head, flaring my temper.

"Um... I... its... um..." She stammered again.

"Let me talk to Stella, now."

"Stella is not here... I... I..."

"I thought you said you're staying with Stella. Tell me Mia... I want the truth."

"I'm sorry Tristan... I... I'm with Stella's brother... Xander."

***

It didn't take long for my personal assistant, Jeff to find Stella's home in Bevely
Hills. And it was a bad idea seeing her there.

She was swimming in the pool when I arrived in her place.

Her face showed a surprise expression the moment she saw me, like she was caught
off guard. But immediately with her usual confident composure, she went out of the
water in poise, with her head held high.

"What do you want?"

What do I want? You. Definitely YOU.

I was disoriented for a while. Looking at her... so gorgeous. She was so strikingly
beautiful without any makeup on. She looked like a goddess emerging from the water
in plain white two-piece skimpy bikini - so confident and stunning. She had a
perfectly gorgeous body, slender but curvy.

She was ascending the steps of the pool coming towards me. With every step she
took, it looked like she was floating. I followed the movement of her hands as she
wiped the water off her eyes and slid it down her slender neck to her breasts then
down to her stomach and thighs.

Oh God... I would love to have my hands just there to feel if her skin was as
smooth as it looked.

Dammit, what is wrong with me?

She went to the nearby table and took the

towel. She wiped her cheeks and neck then faced me again.

"You deliberately did this."

She frowned then raised one eyebrow at me. Her hands held her slim hips. "What are
you talking about?"

"Mia... and your brother!"

Her eyes widened and glared at me angrily. "Are you crazy? What do you think did I
do?"

"You hate me so bad that you used my sister to get back at me." I snapped at her.

She laughed at me then suddenly gave me an angry look. She poked her finger on my
chest. "You are really crazy. They're in love."

"In love! HA! I can't allow that. NOT with your brother."
"Excuse me?"

"You know damn well the reputation of your brother. He's always in nightclubs, in
expensive holiday resorts, flying his private plane in party to party and always
with different female company. I won't allow my sister to have an affair with that
kind of man. He's a playboy!"

Her eyes widened again. "He is not! He is a businessman, naturally he has to

socialize... to mingle with different people."

"Don't fool me, Stella. He will just hurt my sister."

"Of course not. Xander loves Mia, a lot!"

"Do something about it. I don't care how you do it... I just don't want them
together. Talk to Mia and convince her to come back home, to us. I don't like your
brother for my sister. Is that clear?"

Stella

Oh God.... Help me. My patience is running out. I hate him!

I was surprised seeing Tristan here in my home. I was caught off guard! And of all

the unfortunate times, he arrived while I was here in the pool, swimming and
wearing my skimpiest bikini. Oh gosh... it was very embarrassing.

Hmp.. and now he was saying mean things about Xander. I couldn't allow that.

My brother was a decent and respectable man. I knew him better. He helped my father
ran our businesses. Tristan believed the gossips in the tabloids and internet about
Xander!

I looked at Tristan, hating him more right now. "And who do you think you are
ordering me like that?" I stepped back, away from him. I couldn't bear being near
him. The hate I felt was so overwhelming. "The problem with you is that you haven't
experience love... you are so used with the company of your bimbos that you didn't
know how it feels to be in love. You should try it sometime, so you would feel how
it is to be human."

He laughed and stepped forward, looming over me. "Why, have you been in love?"

"Of course! And... it's none of your business!" I stepped back again... and he was
stepping forward towards me. His eyes never leaving mine.

Then I saw the change in his expression. Suddenly there was pain... and rage.

"Yeah, I forgot. So when is the wedding?" He said with a twinge of bitterness in

his voice.

Wedding? My goodness... he knew about Xander's proposal last night? I thought it

was a secret. But wait...

"What did you say?"

"You're engage with Eros, right?"

Oh darn...

I was shocked. He knew about the arranged marriage.

"You know about it?"

"Yeah." He smirked at me.

My goodness... I want to erase that smirk off his face. He's acting like a real
bastard.

"Well, best wishes to me then. I'm happy and so in love. And soon, I'm getting
married to your cousin. So that makes us cousins also, right?" I said, provoking
him.

"I will never accept you as my cousin." He gave me a murderous look then he spun
around and left.

***Don't forget to Vote, Comment and Share to your friends.***

Love and kisses,

Neilani Alejandrino [SWEETDREAMER33]

=================

Chapter Nine

Chapter Nine (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here-

"I love you, not because of what you have but because of what I feels...

I care for you, not because you need care but because I want to...

I'm always here for you, not because I want you to be with me, but because...

I want to be with you." - from: aboutalllovequotes.blogspot.com

Tristan's POV

*** Wellington, New Zealand

"How could you Tristan! I came here in New Zealand, all the way from England and
you wouldn't allow me to get inside your building... And that bodyguards of yours,
they disrespected me! Why are you treating me like this? I'm your mother for
heaven's sake!"

"My mother is dead." I snapped at Marilyn who was standing infront me.

"Okay, I may not be your mother by blood, but still, you are my stepson."

I put down my pen and leaned back on my chair. "What do you want?"

"I miss you... and Kobe misses you. Can we just be together like we used to be.
We're family."

I smirked and rubbed my chin. Didn't she know Kobe's secret yet? He reconnected
with me. He visited me here in New Zealand last summer while Marilyn was in
Singapore with her latest boytoy.

"Cut the drama, Marilyn. I'm busy. Say what you want and leave."

"You are becoming disrespectful!"

"Respect is earned, not given. The way you treated me when I was a kid... I could
say that you don't deserve my respect."

She

heaved a sigh then flung her arms in the air. Then she sat down on the couch which
was facing my office table, still so poise and classy like a trophy wife. Her head
held high and a sarcastic smile was plastered on her face.

I assessed her appearance. I hardly recognized her when she entered the office. She
looked so different from the last time I saw her. Kobe told me that she underwent
too many plastic surgeries just to look younger, but it turned out the opposite.

Marilyn cleared her throat and smiled sweetly.

"Tristan, I'm sorry if I was hard on you before. I just did what was best for you.
I want to discipline you... you know... motherly instinct. I always treat you as my
very own son. I loved you dad and I learned to love you too."
I smirked. That was the most funny statement I've ever heard. I knew Marilyn so
much. She couldn't fool me anymore. "How much money do you need?"

"Money?"

"Yes. Money. That's why you're here." I blurted.

She frowned, then gave me a sad expression. "I... I don't need money."

"Really? So what do you want. Tender loving care? Either you need money or you're
sick and about to die. You want forgiveness for all your sins cause you're afraid
to go to hell and face Lucifer. Tell me... which is which?"

"You're so harsh!" She glared angrily at me now. The old Marilyn I knew was back -
looking at me like an evil queen.

I looked at my watch and said. "Your five minutes is up. Just send my best regards
to Kobe. Goodbye Marilyn." I stood up and headed to the adjoining room leading to
the boardroom.

"Wait." Marilyn

stood up too. "Please Tristan... hear me out."

"I can't spare another minute with you. I have a board meeting."

"Tristan, please. I need two million dollars immediately - now. I owe someone
and... and I don't have enough funds anymore. I put some of my properties on sale
but it takes longer for my solicitor to find a buyer."

I grinned. I was right. She never changed.

"I'm not a banker. As you can see, I managed an airline business." I pointed at the
big floor to ceiling windows that showed a few number of aircrafts outside.

"Okay, fine. You can choose any of the houses for two million dollars. But I need
the money NOW."

Two million dollars for the house? That was cheap, considering that the houses were
mansions. Either she was stupid or desperate. A loan shark businessman probably ran
after her.

Marilyn didn't know anything about handling her money. Kobe told me that she spent
her money with her lovers - buying ferraris, expensive vacations, shopping and
partying. No wonder she ran out of funds.

"So tell me, which one of the houses do you want?"

I knew which one I wanted. The house where my parents spent their last time
together. The place that brought happy memories to them, where they continued their
love for each other.

"I want the Paris mansion."

***

It had been four months since I last saw Mia. Before I left for New Zealand, she
went home to our California mansion to talk to me about her relationship with
Xander. She also told me that she was getting married in a few months.
I was upset. But I realized that

there was nothing that I could do about it anymore. She was in love and she was
willing to do anything to fight for her love for that casanova.

I never met Xander Valiente and I never wanted to meet him. There was no use. I
didn't like him for Mia. He was a player and enjoyed partying with a group of
spoiled young elites like him. His circle of friends was quite wild.

I was on my way home to my ranch when my phone rang.

"Tristan."

"Mia?"

She was sobbing uncontrollably like she was in deep pain. I instantly got worried.
How I wished she was with me at that moment so I could comfort her.

"What's wrong? Why are you crying?"

"It's about Xander... You're right about him."

Oh God. Rage started building inside me. All I could think at that moment was to
murder Xander Valiente.

Eversince, I wanted to take Mia away from him. They had been living together for a
couple of months already.

"Where are you?"

"I don't know."

My anger was replaced with panic. "What do you mean you don't know?"

"I was upset and... and I've been driving for hours and... and I bumped my car on a
tree...."

"What? Are you okay?"

"Um... I guess so..."

"Mia, tell me, where are you?" I almost shouted on the phone.

"I'm in the woods... Oh Tristan... I have a blood on my forehead."

"Mia, listen to me. Did you turn on your car's GPS?"

"I-I guess so... Tristan, help me. It's so dark in here."

I was really in a panic. I have to find Mia. I have to go there myself and check if
she was fine. But New Zealand was so far from California.

Damn it!

"Stay in the car."

"Wha...at?"
Damn it. The line was choppy.

"Mia, stay in the car. I'll send my men to get you."

"I'm not in the car anymore. I've been walking for an hour." Her voice trembled.

"What? Oh, Mia... where are you?" I sounded desperate.

"I... I don't know. Tristan... I'm sorry... I should have listen to you." She was
crying now.

"Stay calm, okay? I'll get you. Trust me, I'll get you."

*** Califonia Hospital Medial Center

I arrived in California the following day. I immediately went to the hospital where
Mia was confined. My men found Mia in the woods unconcious. Until now, she have not
woke up yet. I was worried about her. She was my little sister, I loved her. I have
to protect her.

I swear, I won't allow Xander Valiente to come near her again

Stella's POV

*** Petrakis' mansio, New York

"Hi, how are you?" Eros Petrakis greeted me with a light hug.

"I'm fine, thank you." I placed my hand on his forearm. "You didn't come in my
birthday party last month."

"I was in Russia."

"I was expecting you." It was true. My family and I were expecting Eros to come to
my birthday party, since he would be my future husband.

He chuckled. "My business deals are more important to me than crossing countries
just to attend parties, Stella."

I dropped my lashes quickly. That hurts. I knew Eros didn't like to marry me as
much as I didn't want to marry him too. But our family agreed on this arranged
marriage. And a few years back, Eros agreed on this also.

"I understand. You're a busy man, like my papa."

Dad, mom and I spent Christmas dinner with the Petrakis family. Mom said that I
have to get used spending special dinners with the Petrakis family since I would be
part of their family very soon. It was very awkward. I was not comfortable doing
this. But I have to, for my family. Besides, I trusted my parents. They wouldn't
decide on anything that could harm me.

I was seated beside Eros in the dining table. His secretary, who I found weird
wearing old fashioned clothes and thick black-rimmed eyeglasses was seated on his
other side. I tried to talk to him, but his attention was focused on his secretary.
It was obvious that Eros was more interested on her secretary than me.

Eros' cousin Paul kept me entertained. We talked about our profession, people we
knew, music and a lot of things. I enjoyed talking to him. He was quite charming.

"I thought Tristan would be here?" Chloe, Eros sister said.

The mere mention of Tristan's name made my heart jumped. It had been a year since
the last time I saw him.

"He had an emergency last night. Something happened to one of his planes." Eros'
dad, Markos Petrakis said.

"I admire Tristan. He is a hardworking young man. Despite having all that money he
inherited from his dad, he didn't stop working. He started his own business from
scratch." Eros' mom said.

Yeah. But he became a certified bastard. I couldn't forget how angry he was when he
came to my house in Beverly Hills. He was mad as hell when he found out about Mia
and Xander. I didn't like Tristan... I hated him.

But why is it that I can't get him out of my mind?

=================

Chapter Ten

Chapter Ten (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here-

"Love is like a wind. You can't see it, but you can feel it." - from: A Walk To
Remember by Nicholas Sparks

Tristan's POV

*** Wellington, New Zealand

"Excuse me sir, Mr. Xander Valiente is on the line." My secretary said over the
intercom.

Xander Valiente. He'd got a nerve to call me after what he did to my sister. If he
was sensible, he should hide his damn face from me. I was capable of murdering him
at the moment.
"Tell him I'm in a meeting."

"Yes, sir."

"And Leah, if he calls again, tell him I'm out of the country."

"Um... okay sir. I'll do that."

Now that Mia was slowly recovering from the accident, there was no way that I would
let Xander Valiente near her again. Over my dead body.

The following day, my secretary told me that Xander Valiente kept on calling the
office asking to talk to me.

"He was asking for your sister sir. He wanted to know if she's here in New Zealand.
This morning, he called again. He was angry when I won't give him your cellphone
number. He said if he'll find out that you're hiding Mia, he'll make sure your life
will be a living hell."

I smirked. Stupid asshole. He'd got a nerve to threaten me when I was the one who
could sue him after what he did to my sister. He abandoned her while he was
partying with his mistresses in Brazil. He treated Mia like one of his mistresses.

The following night, I was out for a

date. I had dinner with Andrea Alonzo, a well known model in New Zealand. We just
finished our meal and were getting to know each other well when Xander Valiente
appeared in front of our table.

"Well... well... well. I thought you're out of town, Mr. Latsis."

My temper flared when I saw him. He was what I expected - the face of a player.
Suave, neat and everything was in place. But I also noticed that he was a male
version of Stella. Damn it.

"Mr. Valiente."

"Right. I've been calling you and you never returned my calls. You knew how
desperate I was in seeing Mia."

"I'm a very busy man."

"Busy? HA!" He gave my date a malicious stare then focused his lashing eyes back at
me.

"If you don't mind, we're having dinner here. Whatever you want to say, ask my
secretary for an appointment tomorrow." I snapped at him.

"Bullshit!" His voice rose and I could sense the other diners in the restaurant
observing us. "Where's Mia."

I stood up and faced him squarely. "Look. I don't know where Mia is."

"I know you're hiding Mia. Where is she. I need to talk to her." He was raising his
voice now. I could smell alcohol on him. He was drunk.

"Hey. Come on. Let's talk outside." I raised my hand and signalled to my date to
wait for me.
Xander Valiente followed me outside. The moment we were alone, I turned to him.

"Where's Mia." He asked again.

"I told you. I. DON'T. KNOW."

"You're her brother. She turns to you whenever she's in distress. Stop lying man,
tell me where she is."

"I don't know where she is. And if ever I know, you're the

last person that I'm going to inform." I said, provoking him.

"Fuck you man! I know you're happy now. This is what you want, right? Why can't you
accept the fact that we love each other!"

"Love? Are you sure she loves you? If she did, she wouldn't have run away. Maybe
she saw the real you and realized what an asshole you are?"

I didn't saw his fist coming and hit my right cheek. I felt the plain, like my jaw
broke. The bastard.

I touched my lip and saw blood on my fingers. Damn him!

I punched him hard on his face twice then on his stomach. I stopped when he fell on
the ground. He was groaning with pain, but at the same time crying. I've never seen
a grown up man cried so hard, ever before.

"I love Mia so much. Please I'm begging you. Tell me where she is. I need to talk
to her. I need her back. I can't live without her."

"Sorry man. I wish I know where she is." Was all I said before I left him.

****

I was in New York for a week for a business joint venture. One evening, I watched a
play with my client's daughter when I saw Stella at the lobby. She was very
astonishing as always. Gorgeous and strikingly sexy in blue dress. Her long wavy
hair was falling down her back. She was with her parents. As usual, the obedient
daughter. I wondered why she never dated Eros, when she was going to marry him.

I was not watching the play. I was watching Stella the whole time. She was seated
at the side of the balcony, opposite to where I was seating.

I didn't know what came over me. When I saw Stella stood up from her seat and went
outside, I followed

her. Something magnetic like a force of energy pulled me onto her. It had been a
long time since I saw her. The mere sight of her made my pulse race. I couldn't
believe that she still had this effect on me.

I found her in the bar. The bartender gave her a glass of red wine. She sat on the
stool and sipped the wine. She looked so pale and fragile sitting there. She didn't
look fine.

"Stella."
I saw her body jerked up at the sound of my voice. I made her nervous.

She rotated the bar stool and faced me, so poise and regal with her chin up. "Are
you stalking me?"

I grinned. "I was about to ask you that."

Her eyebrows furrowed. "How's Mia?"

I didn't reply. It was better not to say anything. She wouldn't believe me anyway.
I sat on the bar stool next to her.

"I miss her." She said, then sipped her wine again.

"I'm sure she misses you too."

She nodded. "Xander is a broken man. He can't accept the fact that Mia left her. He
won't give up. He's still looking for her."

I shook my head and exhaled heavily. "They are not meant for each other."

"How could you say that?" Her eyes were flashing at me angrily now. "They are in
love."

"Love is not the basis for marriage. It's compatibility. It's obvious that they are
opposites. Your brother is worldly and Mia is very conservative. Marriage won't
work for them."

She rolled her eyes. "Haven't you heard that opposite attracts?"

"That's physics. It doesn't apply in people's feelings."

"It does. The other person fills up for what the other doesn't have. They
complement each other. It makes their relationship more exciting, interesting and
not... boring."

"I don't think so. A couple should have the same taste in music, in food, hobbies,
their behavior and anything. That means compatibility. If they have a lot in
common, there relationship will be peaceful, no arguments and they get along very
well."

"What?"

"It's true. I've known a lot of couples who ended up in divorce because they are
totally opposites."

"Well, I've known a lot of couples who are totally opposites, but their marriage
works out."

"That's impossible. Look at us, we are opposites. We couldn't stand each other. One
minute together, we are already arguing."

"I'm not arguing with you. I'm just making a conversation." Her eyes were like
bullets aiming at me.

"Conversation? Not anymore sweetie. I could read your mind. You are thinking of
slapping me or throwing that wine in my face."

"Oh! It's useless talking to you. I came here for some fresh air... and now you're
giving me a headache." She stood up and went back inside to watch the play.

Stella was a stubborn girl. The type of girl that I always avoided. But why was it
that I just couldn't get her out of my system. Everytime I saw her, I got excited.
I felt so much alive and there was an ultimate rush deep within me.

Uncontrollable.My body is uncontrollable whenever she's around.

***One thing I'm asking from you. Kindly VOTE and SHARE this story to your friends.
I need your help in inspiring me to continue writing this story.***

Love and Kisses,

sweetdreamer33

=================

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Eleven (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here--

"A real girl isn't perfect and a perfect girl isn't real." ― Harry Styles

Stella's POV

I just turned twenty three yesterday. I had a small party last night. Just a few
friends in high school and in the university. But the celebration was not that fun,
I missed my best friend, Mia.

Eversince I earned my bachelor degree in Economics a month ago, I started working

in our company, the Valiente Group of Companies here in California. I started doing
clerical works in the Purchasing Department and came to the office the same time
with the other employees.
"Miss Valiente, your father wants to see you in his office now." Our department
supervisor said, while holding the phone.

"Okay, I'm on my way. Thanks Sir."

I stood up from my desk and went directly to the top floor, where my dad's office
was located.

I was surprised to see mom, Natalie Valiente, when I arrived. She was sitting
infront of my dad's office table. She seldom came in the office. She was busy
managing our hotels with my brothers, Franco and Manuel.

I kissed her cheek and hugged her. "What a surprise mom."

"Hello dear." She hugged me back. "You look stunning as always dear."

"Thanks, mom. Why are you here?"

She sighed and looked at dad. "Your dad and I have an important thing to say to
you." Her voice sounded sad and worried.

"Really?" I was confused. What was it that couldn't wait till I'd get home? When I
graduated

in the university, I moved back to our house to be with my parents again. That was
what they wanted - so they could keep their eyes on me.

I went to my dad, Rafael Valiente, and kissed his cheek. "Hi dad."

I was closer to my dad. I could say that he pampered me a lot - with love,
attention or even material things. Eversince I was a kid, if there was something I
desperately wanted, I went to dad first because mom often said NO. For instance,
going to movies with friends or attending parties, joining summer camps and others.
Mom wouldn't allow me unless I would bring my nanny or a bodyguard.

Dad stood up from his chair and hugged me so tightly. "We have something to say to
you, princess."

Worried. Anxious. A lot of things were running through my mind - mostly weird
scenarious.

"What is it? Is something bad happened?" I let go of dad and moved closer to mom.
The suspense was killing me.

Mom nodded. My heart suddenly sank. A bad news. I could not stand bad news. For
heaven's sake. I hope it was not something to do with my family.

My knees were getting weak. I sat down on the chair opposite to where mom was
sitting. I reached for my mom's hand and squeezed it. "What is it mom?"

Mom looked at dad then back to my face. "It's about Eros."

"Eros?" I got confused for a second. What happened to Eros? Is he fine?

"Eros is getting married - to his personal assistant, Jade." Mom's other hand
clasped mine. "You met Jade last Christmas, right?"

"Yeah."
Eros is getting married? To his personal assistant? I thought he's marrying me!

The news wouldn't

sink in. It kept on playing again and again in my head.

"He's really getting married?"

"Yes. Nina called me this morning. She apologized on behalf of Eros. It was
unexpected and there's nothing that they can do about it. He fell deeply in love
with Jade." Mom comforted me by running her hand on my forearm.

"Eros announced their engagement last night during their family dinner. They're
inviting us to attend their engagement party this coming Saturday." Dad said.

I didn't know what I felt at that moment.

I had this ambivalent feeling. Hurt. Angry. Cheated.

But definitely I felt cheated more.

Eversince, I never dated anyone, I didn't entertain any suitors and I tried not to
fall in love with anyone because I was going to marry Eros Petrakis. I never
experienced meeting boys, going out on a date, texting, sending messages and other
things that normal teenager girls did with the opposite sex. I was deprived of all
of that because I was going to marry the Petrakis heir, Eros Petrakis.

This is unfair. So unfair on my part. I missed enjoying my teenage life because of

him. I wasted a few years of my life.

What a selfish, insensitive, arrogant man. He never even had the courage to say it
to me in person. I felt like a flee on his arm that he just shove away. He made me
believed that he was going to marry me very soon. It was so easy for him to get rid
of me - to call off everything.

I looked at mom. She looked so sad and worried, about me. Tears welled in her eyes.
She was concerned about my feelings. She knew I was hurt. Whenever I was hurt,

she was hurt too.

Then I looked at the disappointment on my dad's face. I knew he was hurt too. And
the more I'd show them that I was hurt, the more they became so worried and sad.

"Are you okay, dear?" Mom wiped the tears that fell on her cheeks. "I know you're
hurt and this hurts me and your father as well. But there's nothing that we can do
about it. All we have to do is understand and move on."

"Mom... please, stop crying." I tried my best to smile, even though it hurts as
hell. "Actually, I feel so relieved."

Dad and mom immediately looked at me with questioning eyes.

"Relieved?" Dad asked.

"You see... I've been meaning to say this to you both."

"Yes?" Mom and dad said simultaneously, waiting for me to continue.

"I don't love Eros... and I'm so sorry... I'm in love with someone else." I lied.
"You do?" Mom's face lit up. Her hands clasped together on her chest.

I nodded.

"Who is he? Do we know him?" Dad asked.

"Um... I don't think so. He is also a businessman and... and he lives

somewhere...very far um... in... in..."

"Where?" Dad asked again.

"New Zealand." I was caught off guard, I just said the first country that entered
in my mind.

"New Zealand... hmm..." Dad said, rubbing his chin.

"When can we meet him?" Mom was excited now.

"He's very busy. He travels a lot and right now he is expanding his business in
Asia." Oh God, forgive me. I kept on lying now.

"Oh... he must be a hardworking man." Mom looked at dad. "What's his name?"

"I... his name is... um... " I tried to make up a name. But it was hard, maybe my
mom would search it in the internet and found out that I was lying. "I'll tell you
later mom, okay? You know, he's a.... private person. Yeah, he's very very private
person."

"Okay. But make sure we'll meet him."

"Yeah. Sure! Soon." I smiled at them.

Mom hugged me again. "Oh Stella. I was so worried. I'm glad that you're fine that
Eros is getting married. So, are we going to New York this coming Saturday to
attend their engagement party?"

"Sure!"

That night, when I was alone in my room, I cried so hard.

***Kindly VOTE and SHARE to your friends.***

=================

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Twelve (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here--

"We all fall in love. One way or another. We hold back or go head first. Love
brings out the best in us but also brings out the worst. Maybe just maybe... Well
find that one special person who makes us do all those things and more." ― Madison
Camilleri

Tristan's POV

*Wellington, New Zealand

I was having a meeting with the workers of my dairy farm - in the barn when my
cellphone rang. Damn it. I forgot to turn my phone into silent mode.

"Excuse me." I took my phone in my pant's pocket and checked the caller. It was my
cousin, Eros.

I went outside and my dog, Rocky tagged along with me.

"Eros."

"Hello cousin." Eros replied.

""I'm in the middle of an important meeting. Whatever you want to say, say it fast
man."

"Sorry to bother you, Tristan. I just want to let

you know that I'm getting married in a month!"

I felt numb. Like the world suddenly shattered into pieces.

"You're getting married in a month?" I repeated his words, making sure that I heard
him right.

"Yes, man. Haha!" The excitement in Eros voice was so evident. It was obvious that
he was very happy in getting married to Stella. Does he love her? Are they in love
with each other?

Jealousy. Rage and sudden misery. The emotions I felt was so hard to bear. I didn't
know what was happening to me. Eros' news of getting married was a very bad news to
me, like I was going to attend a funeral, instead of a wedding.

"Why so soon?" I asked. I didn't like the thought of Eros and Stella getting
married. Living together and having kids. It disgusted me.

"Why not?" He replied. "Anyway man, I'm expecting you this Saturday, okay? It's our
engagement party. Be here in New York."
"No. I don't think so. We're going to launch our new commercial aircraft."

"Okay. But make sure you'll be in our wedding. You're my bestman."

"No way man. Pick anyone else, not me."

"You're the closest cousin that I got."

"Why don't you pick Iñigo. He's your best friend."

"I cant. I was his bestman on his wedding. It could be bad luck."

"I'm sorry man, I can't. I don't want to be anyone's bestman. I hate weddings."

"Tsk. Tsk. But you're coming, right?"

"Do I have a choice?" I decided, I still wouldn't go.

Eros laughed. "Not anymore. You'll be one of the groomsmen and I wont take no for
an answer."

One of the groomsmen. Meaning

I'd still have to be there in their wedding. Damn it.

"I have a...."

"Oh come on, man. Everyone is going to be there. It's my wedding day, you can't be
absent." Eros interrupted me.

I inhaled deeply and said. "Okay. I'll be there."

***

"He's marrying Jade Collins, his personal assistant." My stepbrother, Kobe said.

Jade? Not Stella? I was surprised that Eros was not marrying Stella... I
thought....

But Kobe couldn't be wrong. He always mingled with the Petrakis. He considered them
as his close relative - although they were not really blood related.

"You mean, Jade, the one with black hair and big black-rimmed glasses?"

"Yeah and wear vintage clothes."

"Are you sure?"

"Very sure, bro."

I sighed with relief. I didn't know why, but I felt elated, like a big thorn was
pulled out of my chest.

"Hmm... His taste in women obviously changed. He used to like women with colored
hair, like the one he met in the bar years ago. I remembered how he couldn't stop
talking about her... how beautiful and amazing she was... I guess he got tired of
looking for her."
"Or made a mistake of hiring lame detective and investigators. HAHA! They couldn't
find the woman for years." Kobe laughed so hard. "It's good that Eros realized that
he was just wasting money looking for that girl."

"Maybe she was worth that money."

"I don't know man. Anyway, I'm his bestman."

"You are? How come?" I frowned at my brother.

"I volunteered."

I almost choked on the beer I was drinking.

Stella's POV

I faced the humiliation. The stares of everyone who knew about my previous arranged
marriage with Eros. The talk and whispers of women whenever I passed by. The
plastic sad smiles and the pats on my shoulder as if I just failed my bachelor's
degree board exam and that 'better luck next time look' that made me cringe.

I shouldn't have come here in the Grand Ballroom of St. Regis New York - the
engagement party of Eros Petrakis and Jade Collins.

My family were the first ones who arrived. I was with

my parents and brothers, Xander, Manuel and Franco.

It was really hard. Smiling all the time and pretending to be fine. But the moment
I came face to face with Eros, all my composures were gone. The hatred I felt for
him surfaced. How I hated his arrogance, his being insensitive and that superiority
complex attitude. He always thought that he was God. I hoped Jade would put him
down on earth sometimes to remind him that he was human, just like the rest of us.

"Hello, Stella. It's good to see you again." Eros smiled then dismissed me abruptly
by turning around. I felt like I was just an acquaintance and irrelevant in his
life. Damn him, I was once his fiancee! He should at least talk to me, and
explained that 'I can't marry you Stella because I'm in love with Jade.' Not like
this. I felt like a merchandise he bought and immediately dumped because he
realized it was not useful to him.

I wanted to retaliate. To let him know that I was not some pest that he dismissed
easily. I didn't mind anymore if I'd acted like a bitch.

"Where's your secretary?" I said sharply.

got Eros' attention. He turned to me and smirked.

"I don't have any idea. But I'm sure I've invited Mrs. Wilson, she's here
somewhere."

"I thought you're going to marry me. You made me believe that you will and all
along... you have a relationship with your secretary. My family was even expecting
it. I've waited for years Eros, years! This is a big humiliation on my part. I
won't ever forgive you for this."

He smiled as if he hadn't heard anything. But his smile never reached his eyes. I
got scared all of a sudden and somewhat regretted what I said.

"Well, thank you Stella, nicely said. Have you taken your medicine? Or you're just
so hungry. Anyway, enjoy the food and drinks." Then he turned to the other visitors
and shook their hands, ignoring me,

The arrogant jerk! He insulted me.

I wanted to leave the party. I wanted to hide. I couldn't take the humiliation
anymore. The anger I felt for Eros was very overwhelming.

"Hi Stella."

It was Jade. She looked very beautiful and so radiant without her wig and glasses -
like a sweet angel. No wonder Eros fell in love with her. A devil usually picks an
angel to cover his dark sides.

"Hi Jade. Congratulations on your engagement." I was sincere when I said that.
Though I hated Eros, I couldn't hate Jade. She was very nice, sincere and have no
evil bone in her body. Eros was lucky to have her.

"Thanks for coming. I hope you can make it to our wedding also."

"Um... sure. I will." I replied. Oh my, I have to put an act again.

After dinner, there was dancing. I was talking to a friend near the bar when Eros
suddenly approached me.

"Can I talk to you for a while, Stella?"

The smile on my face died when I turned and saw Eros.

"Sure."

"I know you're mad at me. I'd like to apologize for everything."

I was silent. I couldn't even look at him. He made me so angry.

"I'm so bothered. I just realized how badly I hurt you. I thought everything was
okay... that the engagement we had before didn't matter to you like it was to me."

I glared at him angrily. "It matters a lot to me. I grew up being molded as your
wife, never dated anyone or entertain suitors... I was reserved for you, to be
served in a golden platter and all of a sudden you decided to marry another girl?
What do you expect me to feel, celebrate that finally I have the freedom to go out
with boys... isn't it too late for that? I'm twenty three, not sixteen anymore."
"I'm so sorry Stella. I didn't know that. I grew up enjoying my freedom and I was
not thinking about our arranged marriage. Even though my parents reminded me about
it once in a while, I put it at the back of my mind. Yeah, I'm always hardheaded,
nobody can force me to do anything that I didn't want. I always believe that I have
freedom to choose. That's why it never occurred to me that I have to ask for your
permission when I decided to marry Jade."

"I don't know Eros. I don't even know why I'm here. I'm facing all the humiliation.
Well, it's better to face it now, than later." I twisted my lips with distaste.

"I'm sincerely sorry, Stella that you have to bear all of these. What will I do,
for you to forgive me?"

"There's nothing that you can do."

"What about a trip around the world?"

"You forgot, we have a lot of planes to take me wherever I want to go."

"You're right. What about an island in Greece?"

"We have plenty of islands already."

"Hmm... jewelries... signature clothes."

"You can't buy my apology, Eros."

"You gave me an idea. I'll give you a date."

"A date?"

"Yeah... I have a lot of friends and cousins who would be honored to date you."

"No... No... I'm not that desperate."

"I wish I have a power to turn back the clock. I will turn it back to the time you
were sixteen. I will tell you not to believe our parents wish for us to marry, and
you can entertain suitors and have a fill of dates."

His statement made me laugh and he smiled at me too.

"I'm glad that you're now smiling. Am I forgiven?"

"Umm... I think so..."

"Come on, let's dance."Eros dragged me to the dance floor and we danced.

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=================
Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Thirteen (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here--

"Love is not an equation, it is not a contract, and it is not a happy ending. Love
is the slate under the chalk, the ground that buildings rise, and the oxygen in the
air. It is the place you come back to, no matter where your headed" ― Jodi Picoult

Stella's POV

"Are you sure this is the table that Mr. Petrakis reserved?"

"Yes, Miss Valiente." The waiter confirmed after he refilled my glass of wine.

I checked the time in my wrist watch. It was 7:45 p.m.

Whoever this guy that Eros Petrakis set up as my date is fifteen minutes late! This
won't work. Punctiality is very important for me in a man. Men who are happy go
lucky, insensitive, arrogant and unconcern that a woman is waiting for him in a
restaurant is out of my list.

I sighed heavily. I told you Stella, this is not a good idea.

I shouldn't have agreed with Eros when he called me yesterday that he was keeping
his promise in setting up a date for me. I strongly disagreed but he insisted. He
wouldn't take no for an answer. He already made a reservation in this new fine
dining restaurant.

Well... I've never been here before and I heard it's so hard to get a reservation,
even for millionaires - because of its marvelous cuisine cooked by their world
class celebrity chefs - it would take a month before one could get one. I got
curious and eventually agreed with Eros.

I checked the time again - 7:50 p.m. I sighed with disappointment. He probably

won't come and I'm starving to death already.

I was about to call a waiter when I saw Tristan entered the restaurant.

Darn! What is he doing in here?

Panic. Embarrass.

Oh... Of all days, why now? When I'm stood up by my date. I want to hide... but
where? Under the table? But I will only look silly.

I pretended not to see him. I drank my wine and checked my Facebook notifications
on my phone. But... I couldn't help looking at Tristan. He looked so gorgeously
sexy as usual... purely male - making my stomach fluttered with excitement.

Our eyes instantly collided. Darn. He was striding towards me. I had no choice but
to face him.

"Hello Stella. Nice to see you here."

I lifted my chin and looked up at his devilishly handsome smiling face. Darn, I
couldn't control my heart, it hammered foolishly and all my hormones were
celebrating in seeing him again.

Tongue-tied. I just kept on staring at him.

"Are you with someone?" He asked then sat down on a chair across where I was
sitting.

"Um... no... I mean yes. I'm with someone."

He settled on the chair comfortably and glanced sideways. "Who?"

"He's not here yet. But... but he's coming. And... please vacate that chair, it
won't look good if he finds another man here with me."

"NAah. I'm sure he won't mind."

"Tristan, please... it's not fine. I'm not comfortable, okay? I don't wanna be
rude, but please, just go to your table."

He smirked at me. "This is my table."

His table?

"Excuse me. This is my table. I'm waiting for my date, so will

you please..."

"Calm down, Stella. I'm your date."

My eyes widened in surprise. No way! Damn Eros Petrakis. Of all men, why Tristan?
Oh... I remembered, they're cousins.

Tristan couldn't be my date. We couldn't stand being with each other for a minute.
We would just end up arguing like the last time we saw each other - in a stage
play.

"You can't be my date. We hate each other!"

"Correction. I don't hate you." He firmly said.

"You do. Admit it, Tristan. You hate me as much as I hate you." I remembered the
day I went to Arizona and found him with his bimbos - how he humiliated me in front
of his friends.

He groaned and shook his head. "You can hate me all you want, princess. But I'm
starving already. Can we order now?"

My stomach warbled. I forgot that I was hungry before he came in. "Of course."

We were sipping our wine and waiting for our food when I told him. "You were twenty
minutes late. You kept me waiting."

He frowned. "Sorry about that. I just came from the airport. Our flight was delayed
because of a terrible storm."

Oh. He just arrived here in New York. I suddenly felt bad about myself, judging him
without knowing his reason.

"Isn't that a bad idea, flying on a bad weather?"

"Yeah, it is. But I couldn't let a lady waiting for me in a restaurant, starving."

My heart sank.

I knew I was blushing and flattered. He crossed a stormy weather just to see me?

No. No. NO. I shouldn't believe him. He just wanted to toy me with the idea that I
was special. Men and their excuses. But... what if

it's true?

"That's not a sensible thing to do. It's too risky. What if the plane crashes?
Aren't you afraid of dying?"

"I'm a risktaker. I'm not afraid of anything - even dying."

"That's a stupid thing to say, Tristan." I didn't know what happened to me, but I
was suddenly angry of him for taking death so lightly. I didn't want him dead, for
heaven's sake! "You should value your life. It's not good to take risk all the
time."

He smiled and shook his head.

"Why are you smiling?

"You sound like a nagging wife."

"Excuse me, I'm not nagging at you."

"You just did."

"Of course not. I'm just pointing out how important life is."

"Okay, fine. I don't want to argue about that." He shrugged his shoulders. "I just
thought for a moment that you're concern about me."

"I'm not. Why should I be concern about you? We don't like each other."

"I like you." He said.

My heart fluttered wildly. I suddenly felt a tingling sensation at the pit of my

stomach. His confession brought excitement in all parts of my body.

I tried to control from reacting. I refused to believe him. He couldn't fool me

anymore.

"That is not funny."

Tristan and I had dinner and continued talking. I couldn't help being so defensive.
He seemed provoking me to get angry... or I was just so paranoid.

I was caught off guard when he suddenly asked me. "I thought you're marrying Eros?"

That's what I also thought. I wanted to say to him, but I decided to spare him all
the details.

"Well, as you can see, he's marrying Jade. They're in love."

"And

that's fine with you?"

"Why not? I'm only 23. I'm not in a hurry to get married and having babies. I'm too
young for that."

An odd expression suddenly crossed his face. "You must be heartbroken now."

Wait. Did he hear me? "I'm not. Why should I? I've never been in love with Eros."

He frowned. "Never?"

"Yeah. Never ever."

"Are you sure. Cause I don't want to be a rebound guy."

"You won't be a rebound guy because we're not dating."

"What are we doing now? We're having our first dinner date."

"I don't consider this as a date. But if you do, this will be our first and last."

He exhaled heavily and groaned. "Can you just stop hating me for tonight and enjoy
the food and the place? I know you hate the sight of me but can we just pretend
that we've just met?"

"No. I can't." I sipped on my wine and said. "Blame that cousin of yours for
setting this up. I shouldn't have come if I've known that you're my date."

Tristan leaned on the table and took my right hand. "Stella. What should I do to
make you stop hating me. Let's try to call a truce. Who knows, things will work out
between us."

I removed my hand from his burning touch. "You wish, Tristan. Things won't ever
work between. First, we hate each other. Second, we are not compatible. According
to you, opposites don't ever attract."

"Well, I changed my opinion now. I realized that you're right. Opposites do attract
each other, like you and me."

"I don't believe you." I rolled my eyes and wiped my lips with the table napkin.
"And third, there's an issue also about trust in a relationship. I doubt if you'll
ever trust me."

He frowned. "I don't have trust issues, princess."

"You do."
"Na-ah." He insisted.

"What about Xander and Mia? You can't even tell me where Mia is right now."

That stopped him and just stared at me.

"See?" I shrugged my shoulders.

"You're right. There could never be an us." Heanswered.

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=================

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fourteen (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here--

"If you like her, if she makes you happy, and if you feel like you know her---then
don't let her go." ― Nicholas Sparks, Message in a Bottle

Tristan's POV

Dammit! This traffic is driving me crazy.

I checked the time in my watch. It was almost ten o'clock. The wedding would start
in a few minutes now.

Thanks goodness. The cars started moving and after fifteen minutes, I finally
arrived at St. Patrick Cathedral - a Neo-Gothic-style Roman Catholic cathedral
church in the United States and a prominent landmark of New York City.

I slammed my car's door, then straightened my gray tuxedo.

I hate weddings. I don't attend weddings. It's just a full of shit that a man and a
woman vow to each other - loyalty, obedience, devotion and eternal love. What a
crap. After the honeymoon, they forget all their promises and start shouting at
each other. In less than two years, they'll end up having divorce and fighting for
custody of their child.
My cousin, Eros knew how allergic am I in this kind of event. I'm sure he's having
a great time laughing at me now, as well as his best friend, Iñigo Monteiro.

The church was already full when I arrived: Famous socialites, rich businessmen,
sheikhs and royal families coming from different continents - who arrived just to
attend the wedding.

Despite of the big crowd, the first person that caught my eye was Stella. She was
so beautiful

in peach dress, sitting silently in the corner of one of the pews - with her
parents. I didn't understand why she was always with her parents. She wouldn't
leave their shadows when she was in public.

I need to talk to her. Later. She's responsible why I have this terrible temper
since the last time we saw each other. It affects everyone. My job, my employees,
the people that surrounds me, my businesses and even my dog rocky.

I hurried and joined the entourage. Shit! I came face to face with Xander Valiente,
Stella's brother and my sister Mia's ex-boyfriend. What the hell. He was also one
of the groomsmen. Damn Eros! I should have checked on the wedding invitation.

"Hey man." Xander extended his hand for a handshake. I wanted to be rude and punch
him senseless, but for the sake of Stella and Mia, I have to be civil with this
man.

I shook his hand briefly.

"Sorry about what happened the last time." Xander Valiente said.

I just nodded at him and checked the time. It was already ten o'clock. I wondered
why the wedding haven't started yet.

"I talked to Mia."

"I know."

"She's an amazing woman. I love her."

"I know."

"I'm going to marry her."

"I know." The thought of Mia marrying, made me feel sad and lonely. I felt like I
was losing her.

"Is that what you're going to say to me? I know... I know... I'm going to be your
brother in law, man."

"I know." My eyebrows furrowed. What the hell did he want me to say? He got my
sister already. He won!

Xander Valiente shook his head. "Okay, that's fine for

me now. But I hope we can be friends for the sake of Mia. OH! By the way, I know
you have a thing for Stella. See that guy talking to her now? That's Michael
Ferrari. He's seriously pursuing her. They dated twice already."
"What!" I turned around and saw Stella standing at the corner of the church,
talking to a man - probably my age.

She was laughing and obviously having a good time talking to the man. I hated the
fact that she was laughing. I didn't want her laughing with any man, especially
that guy.

It was so frustrating. I couldn't make her laugh. She ended up hating me more.
Maybe I was a lousy joker. Well, if I wouldn't be able to do that, then no man
should.

"You should warn your sister about that guy. I know him. He's a player."

"Nah. She's a grown up woman, she knows what she's doing. Besides, she's leaving
with him after the wedding. They're going to spend a whole week in one of his
islands in Italy."

What is wrong with her. She trusted that guy? For heaven's sake! She's starting to
get liberated now that she's not marrying Eros. It's not the same Stella I know.
Yeah, our first date didn't work out two weeks ago, and that made her turn to the
next guy. Damn. I should have realized that.

I should stop that guy. I should stop whatever they have right now. I turned to go
to where Stella was but the wedding coordinator stopped me.

"Excuse me sir. Where are you going? The wedding is about to start now."

"Just a minute miss, okay? I just need to talk to someone."

"But sir, you can't leave. Kindly go back to your place. Please."

"Tristan,

what's going on?" Iñigo Monteiro said behind me.

"She wants to talk to Stella." Kobe said.

I glared at my younger brother, Kobe. I forgot. He was an eavesdropper.

"You can do it later man. You'll have a lot of time to be with her afterwards?"
Iñigo tapped my shoulder.

"Okay, fine!" I put up my hands and about to go back to my place when Eros butted
in.

"What's going on here? For God's sake! You men are not helping me. I'm so nervous
as hell!" Eros was sweating. He wiped his forehead again with trembling hands.

"Relax, man." Kobe said. "Tristan just want to talk to Stella. He's jealous of
Michael Ferrari."

"I'm not, you asshole. You deserve a big punch later brother." I gave Kobe a
murderous look.

"I'm SCARED." Kobe provoked me.

Eros came closer and gripped my shoulders. "Hey, listen man. Don't be stupid. Stop
punishing yourself. If you love Stella, then go and get her before anyone does.
You're suppressing your feelings for too long already. I know you hate weddings and
commitment. I used to hate it too before. But I realized that all marriages didn't
end so bad like your parents did. Marriage is like a career. A couple should work
hard together to make it a success. It takes a lot of time, effort and patience -
but everything is easy if you love, trust and respect each other."

"Excuse me sir. Sorry to interrupt your conversation, but we're going to start
now." The wedding planner said impatiently to us.

Stella's POV

"I thought Eros Petrakis is going to marry Stella Valiente?"

"She should

be the one wearing the wedding dress, right? What happened?"

"She's dumped by Eros." "Oh, really? I pity the girl."

"I can't blame him. Jade is so kind, beautiful and so nice. I talked to her, and
she's so funny. I love her sense of humor. Well... Stella is so boring. She's like
an obedient puppet to her parents."

"I'm sure she's envious of Jade."

"She's a spoiled brat."

"She's a bitch."

Gossips. Gossips. Gossips.

About me.

Hurtful words I heard since I arrived at the wedding of Eros and Jade.

I shouldn't have come. But if I wouldn't, there would be more gossips spreading
like a virus.

It was hard pretending not to hear. Pretending to be fine. Pretending to be happy

and continued to project an image of calmness, prudishness and sophistication.

Oh God... help me. I'm tired of this kind of life. I want freedom. To be what I
really am and do what I want in life.

My heart lurched when I saw Tristan in the church. I knew he was one of the
groomsmen. I saw his name in the wedding invitation.

He looked gorgeous as usual. I saw a lot of women checked on him. Who wouldn't? He
had everything... he was also known as the richest man in the planet.

I remembered our date two weeks ago. My heart bled when he said 'There could never
be an us.' I was hurt. He couldn't trust me.

Much as I hate Tristan, but I can't help myself... I still love him. I guess I
never stop loving him. No matter how many times we argued, quarrelled and hated
each other... the feelings I have for him keep
on growing. But I have to stop this foolishness and move on. The only way to do
that is to entertain other men.

I dated Michael Ferrari, twice. He was a childhood friend in Italy. Our family knew
each other so well. We have a lot of common friends and we studied in the same
university. But what I felt for him was just friendship.

"Stella, you should join the single ladies over there. Jade is throwing her
bouquet." My mom said.

"No. I don't want to, mom." I took a sip on my champagne.

"Excuse me miss. You're single, right? Can you participate the throwing of the
bridal bouquet?" One of the wedding coordinator said.

"Um... no... I..."

"Please maam. They're waiting." The woman said.

"O...kay." I stood up and headed to the center where Jade and the rest of the
single ladies were waiting.

All of us single women stood a few feet behind Jade. I was standing behind the
other girls. I didn't want to catch the bouquet. It was so embarrassing if I did...
the girl who was supposed to be the bride, caught the bridal bouquet.

I didn't make an effort to catch the bouquet. I was just so surprised when it
suddenly landed on my hands. I was shocked!

Everyone was clapping and Jade hugged me. I was sooo embarrassed. My cheeks were so
hot.

The men started to gather at the center of the dancefloor to catch the garter.
There were about twenty of them. Tristan was there, his brother Kobe, Michael and
others.

Eros took the garter from Jade's legs. Everyone was laughing because it took him
too long... he said the garter was lost. He went inside Jade's ball skirt and their
son, Zion also did the same.

The men were so noisy, crowding at the center, laughing and pushing each other.
When Eros threw the garter, Xander, Michael and Tristan were fighting for the
garter. In the end, Tristan got it.

Oh God. Of all men, why Tristan.

The men congratulated Tristan. Eros tapped his shoulder. "Good job, man."

My hands were so cold and trembling. I gripped Jade's bridal bouquet tightly with
both hands. The wedding coordinator had me seated on a chair they set up at the
center of the grand ballroom.

Everyone was laughing, giggling and were very excited to witness Tristan putting
the garter on my leg - and I was so nervous waiting for him to do it.

Tristan was down infront of me with one bended knee. "Hello Stella."

"Hi." I smiled at him shyly.

"Stay away from Michael Ferrari. He's not good for you. For Christ's sake. Don't go
with him. You'll just get hurt." He hissed.

"What?" I didn't understand Tristan. What is he talking about?

"I love you, Stella. Come with me in New Zealand."

What?! Did I hear him right? He said he loves me? Is this some kind of a joke?
Oh... I hate him. He was playing with my emotions again.

"Come on, Tristan. Put the garter now!" The men shouted. "Tristan! Tristan!
Tristan!"

"Put it higher man!" One man shouted and everyone laughed.

Tristan smiled wickedly at me then put the garter inside my leg. He bit the garter
with his teeth and dragged it towards my inner thigh. Then he stole a kiss on my
thigh - and that made my eyes widened. I stood up and ran to the ladies room. I
felt so humiliated.

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One Last Chapter remaining

=================

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Fifteen (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here--

"A man in love is cautious with the decisions he makes, words he says and actions
he takes, so he never purposefully causes her pain. He believes in her when she
struggles believing in herself. He is her foundation, where she feels safe to be
her true self." - Elizabeth Bourgeret

Tristan's POV
 "Stella. Wait." I stood up and followed her to the ladies' room.

"Leave me alone." She said, almost pleading, before she pushed the door.

I hesitated following her inside, but what the hell, I messed up with her again!

Damn it. What is wrong with me? Now that I plan to make things right between us and
here I am, ruining little chances I have with her again.

I reached for her hand but she was quick in evading my touch.

"Don't touch me. Don't you ever touch me!" Her eyes were flashing angrily at me.

"I'm sorry if I embarrassed you. I don't know what came over me." I raked my hair
with my hand, trying to come up with a reasonable explanation to justify my
actions. "It was just for fun, to make the party... livelier."

"Fun? Well, you did a great job in entertaining everyone at my own expense!" Her
expession was thunderous.

I heaved a sigh. Oh God. What have I done. I don't think she'll ever forgive me
now.

"I'm sorry Stella."

She was breathing heavily and from her facial expression, I knew she was holding
back her tears. Her voice even trembled

as she spoke. "You think I'm a doll, with no feelings... no emotions? You think my
heart is made of plastic that I wont get hurt? I may look like a bitch Tristan, but
I also have a sensitive heart."

A single tear dropped on her right cheek and she wiped it off immediately with an
angry hand.

Damn. I made her cry.

"I know. I know how sensitive you are... so delicate... and I'm guilty of being so
insensitive and stubborn who refused to acknowledge that. I'm a stupid fool Stella.
God knows how hard I tried to build a wall between us, to stop this crazy feeling
that I have for you. But... I can't help it anymore. It's getting so difficult to
keep on fighting everytime I see you."

"Stop."

"Please Stella..." I moved closer to her, but she stepped back.

"No. I don't want to listen to you. Just leave me alone." Raw hurt glittered in her
eyes.

"I can't leave you alone. You have to know what I feel."

"NO! Damn you Tristan. Do you know why I hate you so much? Because you're always
playing with my emotions. You say things that makes me so confused. You're so
unpredictable like the weather in your country. Right now you're so adorable and in
a snap, you easily switch off. I don't understand you." Biting her lip, she looked
away.

"I'm sorry if I made you feel that way, but I didn't understand myself either
whenever you were around. You made me feel so vulnerable and all logic flies
everytime I looked into your eyes."

Stella's heavy lashes that shadowed her cheeks flew up. She was looking at me with
a surprise expression on her face.

"But now, I realized...

these suppressed feelings I have for you is the reason why I always act stupidly
towards you. I have to get this off my chest."

"Tristan..."

"Stella. What I said awhile ago. I mean it. I love you."

Silence. There was a sudden long brittle silence.

I was waiting for her reaction. But she was just staring at me with wide eyes.

A cold knot form in my stomach and I felt as if a hand had closed around my throat.
The tension I felt inside was torturing me.

I was trying to figure out what to say to her when the door suddenly opened. It was
Stella's cousin, Jasmine Monteiro.

"Oops, sorry... um, am I interrupting anything?" Jasmine asked.

"No, it's okay. I'm leaving." I replied then turned to Stella again. "I guess we'll
continue our conversation later?"

Stella nodded and I spun around and left.

Stella's POV

He loves me?

I felt numbed. Cold. Shock.

He really loves me?

I couldn't believe what he'd just said. I was tongue-tied when he said he loved me.
I was like an innocent little girl, so dumbstruck. I didn't know how to react. I
froze like an ice sculpture.

"Are you okay?" My mom asked me again.

"Yeah, I'm fine." I took a sip on my champagne flute then cleared my throat.

"You don't look okay. Do you want to go home now?"

"No. I'm enjoying the party." I watched the guests dancing in the dance floor.

"That's great. I think you should dance with Michael Ferrari. He keeps on staring
at you."
I looked at Michael and instantly, our eyes met. Yeah, mom was right. He was
keeping an eye

on me. My eyes shifted to Tristan, who was talking to a group of businessmen in

another table, and immediately his burning eyes held mine still. I looked away,
embarrassed for being caught staring.

"I'm not in the mood to dance. I'll just sit here and enjoy this delicious
champagne."

"Just take it slow, princess. That one you're drinking contains 7.5% alcohol." My
dad, Rafael Valiente butted in.

"Okay dad."

I was surprised when Tristan stood up and came to our table. "Good evening Sir,
Maam. Can I join you in your table?"

Dad stood up and shook Tristan's hand. "Sure. Please join us."

Tristan looked at me. A faint light twinkled in the depths of his ocean blue eyes.
Oh my goodness. His nearness was so overwhelming. I swallowed tightly as he sat
down next to me.

"How's the airline business?" Dad asked Tristan.

"It's doing very well. Progressing. We're planning to add more planes for
commercial flights this year."

"That's good. If you want, we can give you our quotation. Just give us the
details."

"Absolutely. I'll do that."

"How's living in New Zealand?" Mom asked Tristan.

"Actually, it's great. The weather is really good, a lot of sunshine, fresh air and
great food. You should visit there some time." He smiled and my eyes froze on his
lips. Darn, he had the most sensual and beautiful lips.

"Of course, we love too. I'm sure Stella would love to visit New Zealand." Mom
replied happily.

The mere mention of my name made me choke on my champagne. I coughed and Tristan
immediately gave me his handkerchief.

"Are you okay?" He asked me. His hand

was on my back, rubbing slowly... deliciously.

"Yeah. I'm fine." I said between coughs.

"You're drinking too much champagne. You're flushing." He moved my champagne flute
out of my reach. "Here, drink some water." He held the glass of water near my lips.

"I told her to slow down." Dad shook his head. "Maybe she'll listen to you Tristan.

I looked at dad and mom, they were exchanging malicious glances at us.
"Do you want to grab some fresh air outside?" Tristan suggested and studied my face
with his enigmatic gaze for an extra beat. For a long moment. I looked back at him.
I studied his face unhurriedly, feature by feature.

"Yes. I would love to."

****

"I thought we're going outside?" I hesitated when Tristan led me towards the
elevator.

"We are. Come on, Stella. Get in." Tristan was inside the elevator. "Just trust
me."

Trust me. Such a big word coming from Tristan. How can I trust him when he himself
couldn't trust me.

"Do you trust me, Tristan?"

"Of course, I do. I trust you Stella with all my heart."

"What about Mia... and Xander."

There was a pause, then he heaved a sigh. "Mia is a big girl. She can take care of
herself. Besides, he is Xander's responsibility now."

"And... you're not against them anymore?"

"No. Whatever makes her happy, I'm happy for her, for them."

A suddenly felt a bottomless peace and satisfaction. I went inside the glass
hydraulic elevator and stood beside Tristan. "I trust you, Tristan."

His smile broadened with pleasure. "Thank you. You made me so happy,

Stella."

***

I was in the garden full of flowers. I could smell their fresh sweet scent. Roses,
Lilacs, Daisies... so beautiful. Then I was lying on a bed, full of rose petals in
red, pink, white, peach and yellow. I rolled my body onto it and some of the petals
were sticking on my naked body. A man was sleeping beside me. He was naked also.
Slowly, he opened his eyes. It was Tristan. He was touching me, intimately. His
hands slid from my knees down to my thighs. Then he kissed me with burning
passion...

"Wake up, Stella."

"No." I moaned with pleasure.

"Stella. It's almost nine in the morning. You have to attend the board meeting at
ten."

I immediately opened my eyes. And I was greeted with the glorious smell of flowers.

"It's from Tristan." My mom said.

I looked at the dozens of roses, in different colors inside my room. They were so
beautiful.

"Your dad and I just realized last night that Tristan is your mysterious boyfriend
from New Zealand." Mom smiled brightly. "We don't understand why both of you have
to keep your relationship a secret."

"Um... it's called privacy mom."

Mom's eyebrows rose. "Well, you're already twenty three, you can do whatever you
want. Besides, your dad and I approved of Tristan."

"I'm sure he'll be glad to hear that. But I'm not yet ready for a serious
relationship."

Last night, Tristan and I spent talking at the roof top of the hotel. It was like
starting to get to know each other again. We shared a lot of personal
informations... our likes and dislikes... family, friends, businesses and plans for
the future.

I remembered last night when he said I love you again.

"I think I fell in love with you from the moment I saw you. It was Mia's first day
in your school and I saw you sitting on a bench alone. You were looking at your
phone, smiling. I said to myself, I'm going to court you when you're older." He
smiled and studied me thoughtfully for a moment. "I love you so much, Stella."

"Tristan... I..."

"Shhh. It's okay. You don't have to say it back to me now if you're not sure. I'll
wait until such time you'll say it without reservations."

"You know I like you, Tristan. But a lot of things happened between us. The hating,
the hurtful words we exchanged... the incident in Arizona... I'm not sure what I
feel towards you anymore."

"I know and I'm so sorry. I regretted everything I did. I messed up my chances
with you. I just wish you will learn to love me back, even just a little. And I
promise you, Stella, I'll spend the rest of my life making up with you."

***Vote, Comment and Share***

=================

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Sixteen (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here-

"Love is not an equation, it is not a contract, and it is not a happy ending. Love
is the slate under the chalk, the ground that buildings rise, and the oxygen in the
air. It is the place you come back to, no matter where your headed" - Jodi Picoult

Tristan's POV

Wellington, New Zealand

"You look more and more beautiful everytime I see you." It was one in the afternoon
and I was in my office facing my computer monitor, talking to Stella through Skype.

"Stop teasing me Tristan, I just woke up." She rubbed her eyes with her long slim
fingers. She was in her bedroom, and wearing a satin peach robe. The belt around
her waist defined its smallness.

"Where are you going?" I asked when she disappeared.

"Ooops, sorry. I'll be back in a sec, I'll just wash my face."

"Take me with you."

"Okay."

I saw her beautiful face again. Her facial bones were delicately carved, her
tempting mouth full and nose exquisitely dainty. I enjoyed watching her - washing
her face with her facial wash then brushing her teeth. I laughed everytime she made
funny faces. I loved that she could be as playful as a girl or as composed as an
intelligent woman.

"You have to take a rest. It's Sunday."

"Nah. I have nothing to do at home, no one's waiting for me."

"There's Rocky."

"HA-Ha. He's with me. Come here boy." I called my dog and he immediately ran
towards me. "See? Rocky, say hello to Stella."

Rocky barked and wiggled his tail.

"He's a good boy."

"Yeah. Just like me."

"OH, realllyyyy..."

I called Stella everyday and we dated twice - well, three times if that disastrous
date set up by Eros counted.

Our date was more like getting to know each other, having fun, teasing and
flirting. We held hands, we touched, but ended the night with kisses on cheeks. I
didn't want to pressure her, especially now that I learned that she never
experienced dating, kissing and getting intimate with the opposite sex - all that
because of her arranged marriage with my cousin, Eros. Damn Eros.

"Six more days and I'm going to see you again."

"Yeah. Six more days."

"I can't wait."

"Me too." She replied.

"Really? Wow. You just made my day." In fact, I felt special.

"Don't forget to check the weather forecast."

"Definitely." Our last date was cancelled because of a bad weather here in New
Zealand. The weekends that followed was very hectic. I had business meetings and
previous commitments that I couldn't cancel.

She smiled and nodded.

"Where will you take me?"

"It's a surprise. I'm sure you will love it. Just be ready at 10 a.m. and wear
comfortable clothes."

"Okay. I'm excited."

"Me too. I can't wait to see you again."

I was still smiling after my videochat with Stella. I was caught off guard when my
stepmother came inside my office.

"Tristan, is it true that you're dating Stella Valiente?" Marilyn walked straight
in front of my desk. "Is it serious?"

The happiness that I felt was instantly

replaced with remorse.

What is she doing here in New Zealand? My new secretary let her in, damn it!

"It's none of your business. What do you want?"

"No hi or hello? I'm your mother Tristan... we're family."

I held up a hand to silence her. "Stepmother." I smirked and eyed her with
distaste.

"Mother. Stepmother. It's the same."

"Stop being so dramatic Marilyn and cut the sarcasm. What do you want? Money?"

"NO! Why do you always think I want money everytime I see you?" She sat down in one
of the arm chairs in front of me, then straightened her shoulders.

"Because, after your drama, you end up selling your properties to me."

"Well... not this time."

"What do you mean?"

She bent her head and studied her hands. Then I noticed an engagement ring. "I'm...
I'm getting married, Tristan and I want to let you know first."

"Really?" Oh God. I hope not to one of his young opportunistic model boyfriends.
"Who's the lucky guy?"

"Um... you know him."

"Who?"

"Robert Chan."

"Robert Chan? Your bodyguard?"

"Yes!" She smiled happily. "We love each other so much and we're planning to get
married very soon. It will be a very simple wedding... you know him, he wants
everything simple and ordinary."

I exhaled heavily, feeling relieved. Robert Chan was a good man, too good for
Marilyn. I was sure he would be a better husband for her.

***

"I'm on my way to the airport now." I was walking in a hurry, carrying my brown
leather bag and talking to Stella.

"How's the weather there? Did you check the forecast?"

"Yep. Don't worry, the weather

is great, perfect." I opened the door of my truck and tossed my bag at the
passenger side.

There was silence, then she said. "Be very careful, okay?"

"Sure. I'll see you tomorrow at ten in the morning."

"I'll be waiting." She said before she hung up.

I started my truck and drove out of the ranch when I saw a black cat suddenly
crossed the street. I stomped on the brake with too much force that I almost
smacked my head on the windshield. Dammit.

Stella's POV

Valiente's Mansion

Los Angeles, California - 10:15 a.m.

"I thought you're going out at ten." My brother Manuel said. He was the youngest
among my three brothers and had a bad reputation when it came to women.
"I'm still waiting for Tristan." I got so anxious now. Tristan was never late on
our dates. I wondered what happen to him.

Manuel shrugged his shoulders. "That's bad. Tsk. Tsk. Not a good impression on a
second date."

"It's our fourth date." I wiped my forehead. I was perspiring and I had this ill
feeling deep inside my stomach. Where is he?

I wondered if he arrived safely here in L.A. Oh my God. Please don't let anything
bad happened to Tristan.

"Are you okay?" Manuel asked me.

"I... I'm fine."

"If he's not coming, you can come with me sailing."

"No thanks. You will just ignore me. I know you'll be bringing your girlfriends."

"Yeah. But Michael will be there. He'll be happy to keep you company."

"No.. no. I'll just wait for Tristan. He'll come. Maybe he was caught in a
traffic."

"Maybe.

Or maybe not." Manuel shoved his hands inside his blue denim pants pockets.

"What time is it now?"

"It's... ten twenty five."

I was getting so worried. Something bad really happened to Tristan! I took my phone
from my bag and about to call him when Manuel interrupted me.

"Don't you ever call him. Remember. He is not your boyfriend yet. You're only
dating him. We hate it when women check on us. Just wait. He'll come... or call you
if he cancels your date."

"Okay." I heaved a sigh and tried to calm myself. I sat on the victorian sofa in
the living room with Manuel. I checked the time on my phone, it was 10: 40... then
10:50.... then 11am.

But what if something bad really happened to him? It had been one hour already.

"Manuel. I know something bad happened. I have to call him."

"Awwe, come on sis. Just relax. He's fine."

I called Tristan, but he couldn't be reach. He was out of coverage area. I called
him again... and again... and again... but still, I couldn't contact him.

Where is Tristan?

Two hours later, I called Tristan's office in New Zealand, but his secretary said
that he was aboard his plane to Los Angeles, California since yesterday. She
couldn't give me more information about her boss' whereabouts.
I was watching the tv news and surfing the internet if there was any plane crash...
or storm warning or anything. I was freaking out with worries. I would die if
something bad happened to him. I love him.... and I was not able to tell him how
much I love him.

"Something's wrong?" My mom asked me. "You look so restless."

"Mom.

I'm supposed to have a date with Tristan this morning, but he haven't arrived." I
hugged my mom and told her about my worries. "What if something bad happened to
him?"

"We should tell your dad about this, now."

Seven p.m.

It was such a torture waiting for hours for some news about Tristan. I relied
everything to dad. He said he would have someone checked on Tristan.

"Your dad said that Tristan is on his way here in L.A. There's no need to worry."

"But he left New Zealand since yesterday. He should be here this morning."

"Since yesterday? Are you sure?"

"Yeah. I already told you, right?"

"Okay, I'll call your dad."

I was so agitated. Nervous. Panic. I was getting crazy, thinking and worrying about
Tristan. I began to shook as the fearful images of Tristan built in my mind.

The doorbell suddenly rang and my heart abruptly hammered against my ribs. Our
butler opened the door.

It was dad.

"Hello princess. Did your mom told you about Tristan? He's on his way here in L.A."

"Yeah. But I'm really worried dad, he left New Zealand yesterday."

"But his secretary said that he's already on his way here."

Grief and despair tore at my heart. I couldn't contain the ill feeling that was
eating my nerves anymore. A sensation of intense sickness and desolation swept over
me. I closed my eyes feeling utterly miserable - and I cried.

"Oh dad." I hugged my dad. "Please help me find Tristan."

The doorbell rang again and I heard the door opened. I guessed it was Manuel or
Franco. But I was still in my dad's arms crying.

"Shh... don't cry princess."

"I can't live without Tristan dad, I love him so much. Dad, please, we have to find
him really really fast. What if his plane crashed... what if he's castaway... or
floating unconsciously in the middle of the ocean... there are plenty of sharks in
there."

Dad pulled away a little and smiled at me. "Sweetie, I don't think so, because he's
here, standing right behind you."

My heart lurched.

I stared at my dad. I couldn't believe what he've just said. Then he nodded and
looked at the person behind me.

Slowly, I turned around and saw Tristan, ALIVE and smiling at me.

=================

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Seventeen (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here-

"Love is the most beautiful thing to have, hardest thing to earn and most painful
thing to lose." - Unknown

Tristan's POV

She loves me. Yes! Stella loves me.

It was the best news I'd ever heard. I wanted to jump, so high, until my head would
hit the ceiling. But I decided to remain calm and refrain myself from running
towards Stella and swinging her up in my arms. Her parents were there and I didn't
want to embarrass her.

Stella was staring at me. Her eyes were teary and her lips parted in surprise. Dang
it! I made her so worried.

But I couldn't help in awe of how lovely she was. Everytime I see her, she got more
and more beautiful. Even at the state she was in at that moment - very emotional.

"Tristan."

Heat punched below my belly when she said my name. Damn. I was like a hormonal
teenage boy.

"Stella."

"You're late."

"I can explain."

I moved closer to her and she did the same. My eyes were riveted on her. We met in
the center of the living room and we just continued staring at each other.

"I heard you."

"Oh..." She blushed and glanced uneasily behind her shoulder.

"Is it true?"

"Umm... yeah." She chewed on her lower lip and stole a look at me.

Yes!

I was elated with happiness. More than surviving in a near death - which actually
happened twenty four hours ago.

I took a long deep breath and looked at

her parents who were standing behind her. There was nothing I would like to do at
that moment than held her in my arms and kissed her so deeply. If only we were
alone.

"You made me so happy."

"Okay." She smiled and extended her left hand. I instantly took it and held her
palm on my cheek, stealing a kiss on it.

I smiled back and her smile widened. We were smiling at each other and laughing
like there was something funny. I guess, we were just overwhelmed with happiness.

I heard Stella's dad cough. Stella and I immediately turned our attention to her
parents.

"Good evening sir." I made a little bow to Stella's father then shook his hand. I
turned to her mom and greeted her. "Hello, Mrs. Valiente. Nice to see you again."

Mrs. Valiente smiled. "I'm glad you're okay, Tristan. You made our daughter so
worried."

"Sorry about that." I made a swift glance to Stella who moved beside me and put a
hand on my arm. I pulled her closer to my side and laced her fingers with mine. "We
had a little problem with the plane. But it's working fine now."

Mr. Valiente just nodded his head. Being also an airline operator, he knew that
little problems are exactly critical ones. He wouldn't like to add more worries on
Stella.

***

"What happened to your plane?" Stella asked immediately when I sat down at the
driver seat of my car.
"It was nothing. Just a little problem. Nothing to worry actually."

"But you made me so worried! I thought something very bad happened to you. I tried
to call you too many times but your phone couldn't be reached. What's going on? And

why didn't you just call or text to tell me that you'd be late?"

I let out a big heavy sigh. "I'm sorry. My phone is dead."

"What? How come?"

I decided to tell her the truth. She wouldn't stop asking me anyway until she knew
the full details.

Besides, I love her and she loves me. We have to be honest with each other.

"We took our new aircraft from France - a very high tech with powerful engine and
incredible speed. We wanted to test the plane before we'll transform it for
commercial flights. But bad thing happened, my pilot made a cockpit error. The
engines failed. In seconds, it was going down in a nosedive."

"Oh my God..."

"To good that we figured out the error rightaway and made a fast sharp pull up. We
detoured to the Philippines and had an emergency landing. We stayed there for hours
checking everything."

"That's horrible! You almost died!"

I was surprised when Stella's arms went around my neck. She hugged me so tightly.
It felt so good having her in my arms. I ran my hands to her delicate small back
then hugged her tiny waist, drawing her closer to my body until she was half
sitting on my lap.

"I'm sorry. I wasn't able to contact you. We touched down in a remote area with no
phone signal and internet connection. My phone was badly damaged when it fell off
my pocket."

"Shh... I understand."

We stayed like that for a while. Then I stole a kiss on her cheek and nuzzled
against her neck. "Do you really love me?"

"Huh?"

"I heard you."

"Ohh..."

She removed her arms around my neck and settled at the passenger

seat. She swept tendrils of hair out of her eyes.

"Will you say it again, Stella?"

She looked down at her clasped hands then held my eyes. "If I'm going to say it...
will you say to me too?"
I moved closer to her and touched her cold cheeks.

"Of course, I will. I love you Stella. I love you so much. And I'm going to say it
to you everyday, every hour, every minute if I have too."

"Oh Tristan. I love you too." She said softly and held my hand to her cheek. Her
glassy eyes sparkled in the moonlight.

I looked at the post in front of the car. Above it was a CCTV camera blinking. The
Valiente's mansion was fully guarded and covered with CCTV. But what the hell!

I pulled Stella in my arms and kissed her so deeply. I've been longing to do this
the moment I walked inside their house. I missed her so badly.

Stella felt so good in my arms, so soft and sweet. She responded on my kisses so
shyly. I have to bear in mind that she was not used in getting intimate with men
and this would be her first relationship... and last. Yeah. I would do anything for
our relationship to last forever.

Stella's POV

Six months later

Wellington, New Zealand

I woke up at dawn. I moaned with pleasure as I felt Tristan kissing my neck. His
hand was on my thigh, caressing... possessively.

"Again?"

He stopped. "Is that a complain Mrs. Latsis?"

"No, of course not. I just thought you're tired."

Tristan kissed my lips, so deeply. His hands were roaming my body aggressively.
"I'll never get tired loving you, baby."

"Show me." I whispered.

Tristan and I got married in a very simple ceremony a month ago in a small chapel
in California. It was our wish to have a solemn wedding with only our families
invited.
We went to Camino Real Acapulco for our honeymoon. We stayed there for a week,
swimming, dining and wining... and of course making love most of the time.

Tristan was a wonderful man - very loving and caring, sincere and understanding
husband. He showered me with everything... especially his attention. He taught me a
lot of things too. He was not only my husband and lover, but also my mentor,
adviser and my best friend.

We arrived here in New Zealand two weeks ago. I immediately fell in love with the
country. Everyone was so friendly and accommodating. Life was simple, happy and
satisfying here. The food, water and air were so fresh and healthy. Starting a
family with Tristan here was something we looked forward to.

***Please show your support to this story by VOTE, SHARE and COMMENTS.***

THANK YOU

=================

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Eighteen (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here--

'I will never forget how you stole that first sweet kiss from me, but what you
didn't know was that day I freely gave you my heart and soul as well...' -
lifelovequotesandsayings.com
Tristan's POV

"We'll be late. The show will start in an hour." I was in our room standing behind
Stella who was applying red lipstick in front of the vanity dresser. She looked
very beautiful and sexy in red strapless dress. The split front got me so
distracted.

"Just a minute." Stella replied then checked the edges of her lips.

"Baby, it will just come off when we kiss." I touched her bare shoulders, running
my hands to her arms then kissed her neck lingeringly.

She immediately stood up and took a step away from me. But I pulled her back in my
arms, kissing her temple.

"Later honey. We have to go now." She caressed my jaw.

It was our two months of being husband and wife. Life became meaningful and full of
colors now that I have Stella with me. I anticipated every morning when we woke up
together --- started making love at dawn, have our early coffee and taking our
shower together.

Stella was full of surprises.

One - I realized she was a very domesticated person. Despite being a billionaire's
daughter, she knew how to cook and bake cakes. She was very organized and cleaned
everything in the house. Yeah, we didn't have any household help. Even before when
I was alone, I was used doing my stuff,

cooking and everything. And now that I have Stella, she didn't want to have anyone
in the house either. Well... it suited us fine. We have our privacy and we could do
anything we wanted without anyone watching us.

Second - She had a truckload of signature dresses, shoes, bags and accessories. She
even had more than twenty boxes of makeups. I didn't understand why she had so many
when she was already beautiful. She really didn't need to put on any makeup.

Third - She was so good in playing piano. Yeah, I married a world class pianist and
I was so proud of her. In three months, she would have her first piano concert here
in New Zealand, as a fundraising event for cancer children.

Fourth - A loving and caring woman, so beautiful inside and out. I found everything
about her so cute... even when she was angry.

We decided not to have a baby yet. We wanted to enjoy each other's company. We
wanted to bond solidly as a married couple.

Yeah, the adjustment period was tough, but we promised each other that we have to
understand each other, listen and have an open communication. Whatever worries we
have or something bothers or disturbs us, we have to let each other know about it.
Our marriage was more important to us. Our love and each other.
***WARNING: FOR MATURE READERS ONLY***

SUITABLE FOR 18-YEARS-OLD AND OVER

Stella's POV

I opened the limo's car door as soon as it stopped in the driveway and ran inside
the house.

"Stella... Wait

till I get you." Tristan shouted.

I heard him slam the car's door. I took off my silver stiletto shoes so I could run
faster.

I ran up the stairs laughing and stopped midway, catching my breath. I looked at
Tristan, chasing after me.

"Come here." He said.

"NO!" I giggled and ran towards the bedroom.

I flung the door open and shut it quickly, but Tristan caught the door before it
closed.

"You're a naughty girl." He glared at me then looked at his wet pants.

Minutes ago, when we were inside the limousine, he complained that he kept on
thinking about making love with me. He didn't want to go to the office, because he
wanted to be with me, all the time.

"We should go for another honeymoon." He said.

"Where?" I instantly became excited.

"Anywhere you want to go?"

"How about India?"

"I love that." He pulled me closer to him and held my chin up to meet his lips.
"You're like a drug. I'm addicted to you." He caressed my inner thigh then buried
his face on my neck. Kissing my throat lingeringly. "It becomes a distraction."

"So, I'm a distraction?"

"NO. What I mean is this." He took my hand and rubbed it on his shaft. "I can't
concentrate on my work."

"That is a problem."

"Yeah" He agreed. "Want to do something about it?"

"Hm... I have an idea." I pulled my hand away from his grasp. My eyes focused at
the stainless steel champagne bucket.

"What?" His eyes twinkled with excitement.

I grabbed a handful of ice and put it on his shaft. That made him jerked

up. "Holysh*t!"

Just in time, the limo stopped and I ran outside.

"No way." I yelled. Laughing. I was on top of our bed, still holding my shoes.

"Come on baby, come to daddy." He teased and moved closer to me.

"I swear, I'm going to hit you with my shoes... stop it... Tristan. You're scaring
me..."

"You should." Tristan caught my waist and carried me up in his arms.

"NOoo..." I struggled and giggled.

"Oh yes!" He sat down on bed and bent me over his knees like spanking a naughty
child. He raised my skirt and exposed my buttocks. He playfully spanked me. "This
is your punishment for being a bad girl."

"Tristan..."

He squeezed the cheeks of my buttocks, caressing it sensuously down to my thighs. I

was instantly heated with desire. I bit my lips, overwhelmed with the passion
building inside me. I looked at Tristan and saw his eyes darkened.

"You're a witch." He pulled me up in his arms and kissed me hungrily. My legs

straddled around his hips while his hands pulling me to his rock hard erection.

He removed his jacket and shirt in a hurry, sending the buttons flying. Then he
yanked me on the bed with him.

"I love you so much, babe."

"I love you, Tristan." I whispered.

His head came down and captured my lips. I drank into the sweetness of his kiss. I
felt intoxicated. His lips were moist and firm... and his tongue deliciously
explored the recesses of my mouth, that sent shivers of desire racing through me.

His hand moved under my dress to skim my hips and thighs...

exploring and then moving up. I gasped as he touched the core of my arousal, light
and painfully teasing.

"Oh... Tristan. You're a wicked man." The stroking of his fingers sent pleasant
jolts through me.

He removed my dress, then my bra. "You're so beautiful, baby." He kissed me again,

more deep and intense... like a fever. His mouth traveled downwards, to my neck and
shoulder. His hands were skimming my body, then on my breast. His thumb circling my
nipple on a feverish pitch. I gasped when his mouth suddenly replaced his thumb.

"Tristan, please... don't stop." I moaned with intense pleasure when his tongue
flicked and licked my nipple. I bit my lower lip preventing myself to shout.

My hands were raking his hair. He loved that.

His lips moved... running his tongue down to my stomach... and going downwards to
the center of my arousal. Oh... I love that.

I closed my eyes, the pleasure was so intense like I was up in the clouds, trying
to reach the sky... and almost in heaven... My hands were restless, grasping his
back then his shoulders...

"You're a dirty man, Tristan Latsis." I said, when my delirious feeling subsided.

"Hmm... and you love every minute of it." He smiled them position himself on top of
me.

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=================

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Nineteen (UNEDITED)

--Kindly put your playlist here--

"Having a baby is like falling in love again. Both with your husband and your
baby." - Tina Brown

Stella's POV

"Aaron is a very handsome boy." I heard Tristan's stepmother, Marilyn said.

"Yeah. He looks like Tristan." Kobe agreed.

"Hmm, but he looks more like John." Marilyn argued, as always. John was Tristan's
father.

"Really? Aaron also looks like Rafael." My mom, Natalie Monteiro Valiente said.

"You're right honey. We have the same black hair. See that little dimple there?
Exactly just like mine." I heard my dad then he laughed.

"Let me see?" Marilyn said. "Oh... you're right. Well, our grandson is a very
handsome boy. A combination of the Latsis and Valiente. I'm going to spoil him with
lots of toys."

"No way. Don't do that mom. Tristan will get mad at you again." Kobe said.

"And you'll be grounded from their house." That was Sapphire Collins, Kobe's
girlfriend.

"Yeah. I know Sapphire. I should behave. I don't want to lose my family. Not now.
Right baby boy?" Marilyn agreed.

They all laughed.

I was in the hospital bed, sleeping. I woke up hearing their excited voices. I just
delivered my new baby boy last night. After long hours of labor, I felt relieved
now... and tired.

Tristan was a wonderful husband. He was with me all the time, never left me for a
second. Very patient and understanding... comforting me all the way and attending
all my needs.

never realized that the pain would be so terrible. It felt like dying and made me
so scared of getting pregnant again. But when I saw our baby boy, Aaron... all the
pain were gone. He was our miracle, so precious and beautiful. And seeing Tristan
cried so hard the moment he saw Aaron, made me say that all the pain I experienced
were really worth it.

"Oh, you're awake." Marilyn said the moment I opened my eyes. She was carrying baby
Aaron.

"Hi sweetie." Dad said, kissing my forehead. "Are you feeling okay now?"

"Yeah. I'm fine dad. Where's Tristan?"

"He just went downstairs to get something in the grocery store." Mom said.

"Congrats on your new baby. He's a very handsome boy." Sapphire sat on the bed. She
was a very charming girl, just like her sister, Jade. The last time I saw her was
during the christening of Jade and Eros' daughter Emerald, almost a year ago.
Tristan and I were among the godparents. Kobe was so lucky to have her as his
girlfriend. They've been going on for quite a while already.

"Thanks Sapphire. I'm glad you visit us here in New Zealand." I was fascinated by
her hair. It was coloured pink and sky blue.

"Oh.. I love the country already. I'm amazed how clean, green and peaceful New
Zealand is. A beautiful place to live in. And I'm enjoying the food. Everything is
so fresh."

"And cheap." Kobe said and sat beside Sapphire. His arm went around her shoulders.

"Yeah. Kobe will take me to Auckland tomorrow. We'll go sky jumping at the Sky
Tower."

"Stella tried in twice with Tristan." Kobe said, facing Sapphire.

laughed remembering the first town Tristan and I went sky jumping. I was screaming
that I lost my voice.

Tristan arrived carrying a yellow plastic bag. "Hi sweetheart." He kissed my lips
lingeringly.

"What's that?" I asked.

"Things you'll need. Paper towels, sanitary napkins and extra diapers for our baby.
I also brought some fruits and juices to help you recover fast."

"Oh... thanks hon." I said then noticed my mom wouldn't stop taking pictures of
baby Aaron. "Mom, just don't use a flash, okay? It will harm the baby's eyes."

"Of course. I know that Stella." She replied and still taking pictures. Kobe was
taking videos also.

"Bro, how does it feel to become a father for the first time?" Kobe focused his
GoPro camera at Tristan.

"It is an overwhelming feeling. Like an enormous rush of love. Holding the baby for
the first time... it's a feeling I cannot describe in words. The happiness is
boundless... like a miracle just happened." Tristan said, running his hand through
my hair. "You and Sapphire should make a baby so you will understand what I mean."

"A what?!" Sapphire reacted and made everyone laughed.

The baby cried instantly and everyone went silent.

Tristan's POV

I was in the bar drinking whiskey. Waiting for Stella.

I checked the time in my watch. It was quarter to seven already. Where is she? Our
dinner reservation is seven sharp.

It was our second wedding anniversary. I came here directly from the office to meet
her. I touched the box inside my jacket's pocket, making sure that it was still
there - the gift I bought for Stella.

My phone rang. It was Stella.

"Hi sweetheart. Where are you?"

"Sorry hon, I can't make it. Baby Aaron is crying. I can't leave him with his
nanny."

"Come one, sweetheart, he'll be fine. Your mom is there also, she can take care of
our baby." I felt disappointed. I've been anticipating to have dinner with her in
this new restaurant. I knew she loved dining out and trying out new food. I wanted
her to be happy.

"I really can't. I'm sorry. Just come home. We can have a special dinner here." She
sounded agitated. "I haven't wash my hair yet and I smell so bad. It takes ages for
me to take a bath and get dressed... put makeup and so on... "

"Okay... Okay... I'll go home right away. I'll just finish my drink."

"Thanks hon. See you. Bye."

I put my phone back in my pocket and drank my whiskey. I was surprised when someone
sat beside me.
A gorgeous woman wearing a very sexy black dress. "A margarita please." She said to
the bartender.

I faced her, my eyebrows rose.

"Hello handsome." She eyed me flirtatiously. Her thick eyelashes batting and her
voice was very seductive. "I'm Adrianna."

smiled and shook my head. She was unbelievable. "Hello Adrianna. Nice meeting you."

She laughed, showing her perfect white teeth. She pulled her dress up, showing more
of her sexy thighs. "What's your name, pretty boy?"

I laughed, feeling so excited. She was so hot and I felt heated already. "Tristan
Latsis."

"Oh... Tristan. What a nice name. Are you... um... single?"

"Sorry. I'm not. I'm married to wonderful woman named Stella."

"That's so sad... you love her?"

"So much. It's our anniversary today."

"Aww... so sweet."

"Yeah. I even have a gift for her. Here in my pocket." I tapped my jacket.

"Oh really! Can I see it?"

"No. It's for her eyes only."

"Okay." She agreed, moving closer to me. "You sure you don't want to play fire with
me? I can make you soooo happy tonight. I'm good in bed."

"Oh really? Who taught you?"

"My husband. He's sooo good in bed. He fucks me so hard making me so wet all the
time...." She whispered caressing my thigh then my shaft. "Want me to s*ck your
dick?"

"Shit!" I grabbed her hand. "Sweetie, you're starting to have a dirty mouth. And
your playacting is turning me on. Let's go home. I'm not hungry with food anymore."

I paid the bill of our drinks and grabbed Stella's hand out of the bar.
*** Don't forget to Vote, Comment and Share to your friends.***

=================

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty (UNEDITED)

---Kindly put your playlist here---

"A true relationship is someone who accepts your past. Support your present. Loves
you and encourages your future." - PictureQuotes.com

Stella's POV

**Ten years later**

Tristan was slicing the ham for our Christmas dinner and I was setting the table,
putting the plates, utensils and the food. Our kids gathered in the kitchen
watching us. Aaron the eldest, who was 11 years old, next was Edward who was 9 and
the twins Skylar and Troy both 6.

"Dad, can I join my friends this Saturday? There going to play paintball." Aaron
asked Tristan.

"We'll talk about it tomorrow, okay?" Tristan replied.

"Can I go with you?" Edward asked Aaron.

"No, you can't. You're just a kid. You'll hurt yourself."

"I'm not a kid anymore. I'll turn ten in a few months." Edward raised his voice.

"Ten months are not few. It's almost a year kid." Aaron was provoking Edward.

"Shh... stop it. It's Christmas, Jesus birthday. It's bad to fight." I scolded my
boys.

"Dad?"

"Yes, Troy?" Tristan said.

"When can we open our gifts?"

"After dinner."

"Why can't I open it now?" Troy asked.

"Because, it's tradition and we have to wait for your cousins to arrive, so
everyone will open their gifts together."

"Okay."

"Did you get me a Pokemon Go Plus dad?" Edward asked.

"Me too. I told you that I want that for Christmas." Aaron turned to Tristan.

"You did?" Tristan

frowned.

"Don't tell me you forgot dad." Aaron shook his head disappointedly.

Tristan looked at me, his lips twisted. He bought kid motorbikes for Edward and
Aaron, not the Pokemon Go Plus. Skylar got a Barbie dollhouse and Troy got a
scooter.

"I have a gift for daddy and mommy." Skylar smiled at us.

"Oh, that's so sweet Sky." I kissed my daughter's head.

"What is it, sweetie?" Tristan turned to Sky.

"It's a secret daddy."

The doorbell rang and Tristan left to open the door. It was Marilyn bringing lots
of gifts for the kids.

"Do you think she brought Pokemon Go Plus for the kids?" I whispered to Tristan
after everyone greeted Marilyn.

"I asked her."

"And?"

"She haven't heard of a Pokemon Go Plus before."

Oh.

A few minutes later, Kobe and Sapphire arrived with their three young daughters -
Diamond, Pearl and Amethyst. They settled in Auckland where Kobe managed the Latsis
airline business there. Sapphire had her wig and costume boutique business and
sponsored worldwide cosplay events. Her daughters were her models and became famous
winning cosplay contests.
The house became more lively and full of laughter, with the kids running and
playing around. After our Christmas dinner, there were singing, dancing and games
for the kids. Then the opening of the gifts.

Sapphire gave all the kids a Pokemon Go Plus and that made me and Tristan felt
relieved.

Tristan and I were holding our laughter when Skylar gave us her gift. She wrapped
my hairbrush and Tristan's favorite necktie.

No wonder I lost my hairbrush two days ago. I thought I accidentally dropped it in

a bin. Tristan kept on asking me about his necktie too. The last time he saw it was
when he used it to tie me on the bed.

***

Before New Year, my family flew to California to spend New Year's eve with my
parents, Rafael and Natalie Valiente.

My brothers Xander, Franco and Manuel were there with their wives and kids.

I was in the kitchen with my best friend, Mia Stewart Valiente after dinner. She
married my brother Xander. And now, they have two kids.

"Are you still playing acting as Adrianna during anniversaries?"

I laughed so hard. "No... no. I stopped
Adrianna. He said 'Adrianna go home, my
about you. I love Stella and I value my
acting anymore, he was shoving me away.
'I'm Stella. Idiot!"
when he wouldn't let me inside the house as
wife Stella will get mad if she'll find out
family so much' and even if I was not play
One time, I poked his head with my finger.

We were both laughing when Tristan appeared. "You're talking about me?"

"No, we're not." I lied to him.

"You're lying." He said to me, smiling. "See? Your left eye twitched when you lie."

"I'm not!"

He laughed. "Your eye twitched again." He put his arm around my shoulder drawing me
closer to him. Then I wrapped my arms around him, feeling the contour of his lean
masculine body.

"I married a naughty girl." He said to Mia, as if I was not there.

I pinched his side and he flinched.

Mia shrieked with laughter. "But you enjoy every minute with her."

"Yeah. So much." He kissed my lips and pulled me tighter in his arms. "I love this
girl so much. More than my life."
"Are you sure lover? Or you enjoy being with Adrianna more." I asked Tristan.

"Adrianna who?" He said and kissed me again.

Mia left us in the kitchen, where Tristan kissed me again and again...

__THE END__

Tristan and Stella Convo inside the car, outside their mansion:

Stella: Where's your anniversary gift?

Tristan: What gift?

Stella: The gift inside your jacket.

Tristan: Hmm... it's not for you Adrianna (went out of the car)

Stella: Tristan, wait! (following Tristan inside the house)

Tristan: No...no... don't come inside the house Adrianna. Stella will get mad if
she sees you.

Stella: (agitated) Stop it, Tristan.

Tristan: AH-ah. Don't go inside the house. Go home to your husband.. shoo...

Stella: Hu-hu...

Tristan: Bye Adrianna (banging the main door close)

Stella: Tristan! Open the door for God's sake!

Tristan: (Opening the door) Stella! Where have you been? I miss you baby.

Stella: I hate you (crying)

Tristan: Sorry baby (laughing) I love you so much.. I'm just kidding.