Chapter 23

I rubbed my forehead, thinking about that relentless media that never misses a detail. Sometimes, they're just a nuisance to everyone. I pressed the elevator button again without looking ahead, and just as the doors were about to close, a man stepped in.

He was holding a gun. It was Edward. But what could he possibly want?

"Excuse me, miss," he said, rolling up his sleeve.

I was used to seeing weapons because of my mother's work as a police officer before her retirement. But the aura surrounding him was dark—his intent to spill blood was unmistakable.

"Tell your friend Ayor that there's no escape for her," he said before stepping out of the elevator.

Wait—does Ayor know what he plans to do to her? His strides were quick, decisive. I tried to follow him, to stop him, but someone suddenly pulled me into an empty room.

His abrupt movement startled me, leaving me gasping for air for a few moments.

"Are you okay? Are you hurt?"

His stream of questions began immediately, his worried gaze scanning me, inspecting every inch for injuries. When his eyes landed on the bandage on my arm, his face twisted in concern.

"The nurse already took care of it. Don't worry, I'm fine," I said quickly.

I was eager to go to Ayor; she was waiting for me. I didn't know what was happening with her, but if Edward was involved, no one could save her. Everyone knows what kind of man he is.

Lost in my chaotic thoughts, he suddenly pulled me tightly into his chest. His breath mingled with the pounding of my heart. He placed a kiss along my jawline, and it was as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over me.

My entire body froze, unsure of what to do.

"Teal, I was so scared for you," he said.

For a moment, I felt like my heart forgot how to beat. His embrace was warm, comforting. I took a deep breath and replied, "Your family needs you, and I'm fine. Do you understand? Now go. I need to visit Ayor—it's urgent."

I stepped out of his embrace, forcing myself to stay realistic.

Teal, giving yourself another chance at love is impossible. Stephen was the best—the best, until he left you. Ugh.

"If I hadn't called Max to look for Abain, you wouldn't have been caught in that incident," I heard him mutter curses under his breath.

The veins on his neck were still prominent, his anger simmering. What should I do? Time is running out. I need to get to Ayor.

"I fixed my phone. I'll tell you every little detail, I promise. But please, let me go. I'm fine," I said, pleading with him, my eyes begging.

He smiled at me then, that familiar charming smile, before placing a warm kiss on my hand.

"Come on, I'll take you there," he said.

Wait—wasn't our marriage supposed to be a secret? Why was he offering to take me?

He leaned closer to whisper in my ear, "Don't worry, no one will find out you're my wife."

His gaze shifted from my lips to my eyes, lingering with an intensity that made my heart race.

Then, without warning, he scooped me up like a kidnapper would.

"Hey! What are you doing? This is so embarrassing, Alex!" I protested.

A few stray strands of hair fell over my face as he carried me. Instead of exiting through the main door, where reporters were swarming, he headed to the roof.

The loud thrum of a helicopter filled the air as we stepped outside. My heartbeat quickened.

"Don't tell me you're afraid of heights," he teased, lifting my chin to make me look at him.

I avoided looking out the helicopter's window, feeling the tension in my chest.

This is such a waste. He couldn't have just let me take the bus?

... 

"No, it's just the first time I've ridden in a helicopter and seen the city from this height," I said, captivated by the breathtaking view. The glittering lights and the star-filled sky created a scene that was nothing short of enchanting.

Alexander pushed a strand of hair behind my ear and said, "This is the most beautiful view I've ever seen."

When I felt his gaze fixed on me, I turned my eyes to meet his.

"You have a stunning smile, Teal."

My cheeks flushed, and suddenly the air felt heavier. I gripped the seat tightly, trying to put some distance between us.

"Why do you go to such lengths, Alexander?" I asked cautiously, avoiding the possibility of his lips brushing against mine.

There was nothing left between us when the helicopter began to descend onto the rooftop of Ayor's family hotel.

His eyes sparkled with unspoken words, but as always, just when I sought answers, we were interrupted.

"Mr. Alexander Apex, we're delighted to have you at our prestigious hotel," said the hotel manager, arriving with most of the staff to welcome him.

Sometimes I wondered what kind of influence Alexander wielded to warrant such special treatment.

Taking advantage of the distraction, I slipped away and hurried down the stairs—both elevators were occupied. I couldn't even feel my legs as I descended flight after flight, my mind replaying the moments Alexander had been so close to me. His voice, his demeanor—everything about him was unique.

I shook my head quickly.

Don't let yourself get distracted from your goals, Teal. You came to this city to study languages, to become the best translator ever. To return to London and work for the top companies—or, if luck is on your side, start your own business someday.

Thinking about my ambitions and dreams of success brought a sense of calm and renewed determination.

"Hi, Mom. How are you? It's been a while. I just wanted to check on your health," I said in a voice message, knowing she was probably asleep by now. When I stopped in front of Ayor's room.