Coincidentally, as Fredrick entered the ward, Nora's eyes lit up with anticipation. She wasted no time in questioning Fredrick about his father's involvement in securing the collaboration with Wellington Group company."Fredrick, did you ask your father for help?" Nora inquired eagerly, her tone filled with anticipation.Fredrick hesitated for a moment but then nodded reluctantly. "Yes, I did," he admitted, unable to meet Nora's gaze.Nora's grin widened into a triumphant smile, her victory apparent. "I knew it!" she exclaimed, unable to contain her excitement.Just then, Gabriel entered the room, his presence drawing everyone's attention. Nora wasted no time in sharing the exciting news with him."Gabriel, you won't believe it! My company has secured a deal with the Wellington Group company!" Nora announced proudly.Fredrick forced a laugh, feigning surprise. "Wow. This is good. Finally, my hard work really paid off," he chimed in, his words dripping with insincerity that none of them
The following day brought a glimmer of hope as Butler Moore's efforts bore fruit. A suitable bone marrow donor was found for Jessie, much to the astonishment and gratitude of Camella. With the assistance of the medical staff, Jessie underwent successful surgery that day, marking a turning point in her battle against illness.Some days later, at night, before going to sleep, Camella's voice trembled with frustration as she confronted Gabriel, the tension palpable in the air. "You need to get a job and start figuring out how you're going to repay that debt," she insisted, her tone strained. She still harbored the belief that he had borrowed the money the other day from some loan sharks. Gabriel sighed heavily, his exhaustion evident in his voice. "Camella, I keep telling you, I don't owe any debts. The money I brought was not a loan," he explained, his words falling on deaf ears.Her disappointment was palpable as she shook her head in disbelief. "I can't believe you're still making exc
Gabriel sat beside his daughter's hospital bed, a warm smile gracing his lips as he engaged in a heartfelt conversation with Jessie. "You're looking much better today, sweetheart," he remarked, his voice filled with genuine affection.Jessie returned his smile, her eyes brightening at his presence. "Thanks, Daddy," she replied, her voice soft but filled with warmth. "I'm feeling a lot stronger."Camella entered the room, a tender smile on her face as she approached them. "Hey, sweetheart," she greeted Jessie, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "How are you feeling today?"Jessie's smile widened at the sight of her mother. "I'm doing much better, Mom," she replied, her voice tinged with gratitude. "Daddy's been keeping me company."Camella's smile softened as she glanced at Gabriel, a hint of warmth in her eyes. "That's wonderful to hear," she said, her voice filled with genuine relief. "Thank you for being here for her, Gabriel."Gabriel nodded, his heart swelling with love for his
Gabriel's brows furrowed in disregard at her assumptions. "Aliyah, I appreciate your concern, but you don't understand. I can afford this," he insisted, his voice firm.Aliyah smirked and mocked, "Sure, but don't appreciate the concern. I know you want to spend my sister's money now after getting a hold of it. Camella is your cash cow and you want to act like you're capable. Ridiculous.”Gabriel's nonchalance grew as Aliyah continued to mock him, her words were not having any effect on him at that point. "Aliyah, you have no idea what you're talking about," he retorted, his tone tinged with annoyance. "I'm not here to spend Camella's money. I can provide for my daughter without relying on anyone else."Aliyah rolled her eyes, unconvinced by Gabriel's words. "Sure, keep telling yourself that," she muttered under her breath, her smirk still firmly in place.Ignoring her taunts, Gabriel focused on his daughter, helping her pick out a few outfits she liked. As they made their way through t
Aliyah's friends snickered and exchanged mocking glances as they watched Gabriel's ordeal unfold. "Look at him, probably can't even afford a decent meal, let alone expensive clothes," one of them jeered, casting a disdainful glance at Gabriel."Can you believe Aliyah's sister actually married that guy?" another chimed in, shaking her head in disbelief. "She must have been desperate."Aliyah clenched her fists, struggling to contain her anger at her friends' cruel remarks. Despite their jabs, she refused to stoop to their level, choosing instead to distance herself from their toxicity.As the trio continued to ridicule Gabriel from afar, Aliyah turned her attention back to him, her heart aching for the unfair treatment he was enduring. She vowed silently to stand by her sister and her family, regardless of what others may think or say.Aliyah's frustration mounted as she watched the salesgirl's audacity unfold before her eyes. Despite her strained relationship with Gabriel, her sense
Jessie's smile brightened at her father's assurance, her trust in him unwavering. "I trust you, Father," she affirmed, her voice filled with unwavering faith. Gabriel's grin widened as he leaned down to plant a gentle kiss on her forehead, his heart swelling with paternal pride. "Thank you, sweetheart," he murmured, his voice brimming with affection. But Jessie's innocence shone through as she added, "But if you can't get the dress, it's okay. We can go." Aliyah couldn't contain her frustration at Jessie's unwavering trust in her father. "Jessie, don't be fooled by his empty promises. He's only going to disappoint you," she interjected, her tone tinged with exasperation. Gabriel's resolve remained unshaken by Aliyah's skepticism. He locked eyes with his daughter, determination shining in his gaze. "Jessie, I promise you, I'll get you that dress. I saw how much it meant to you, and I won't let anyone take that happiness away from you," he vowed, his voice resolute. As Gabriel spoke
Gabriel's embarrassment was palpable as he fumbled for an explanation, his pride wounded by the humiliating turn of events. However, the atmosphere shifted when the store manager made a sudden appearance. His gaze lingered on Gabriel, his expression thoughtful as if a memory was sparked.*******************The previous day, the store manager had convened a meeting with the heads of various departments and management under Wellington Group. They had gathered in a meeting room, awaiting the purpose of the abrupt assembly.When Butler Moore entered the room, they rose respectfully, acknowledging his presence with warm greetings. “Please, everyone, take your seats,” he instructed, settling into his own chair. "I appreciate your prompt attendance despite the short notice for this meeting. I have an important announcement to make."He proceeded to reveal that Young Master Wellington, the estranged son of the Wellington family and heir to the business empire, had officially inherited the fa
As the old couple begrudgingly began to make their exit, they cast wary glances back at Gabriel, as if searching for any sign of trickery or manipulation. However, Gabriel simply stood tall, his expression calm and composed, unfazed by their scrutiny. It was clear that he had not resorted to any underhanded tactics to sway the manager in his favor."I'm truly sorry for the inconvenience, Master Gabriel," the manager apologized once more, bowing slightly in respect.Gabriel nodded in acknowledgment before turning his attention to the sales girl, who was now kneeling before him. "You don't need to kneel," he said gently. "Mistakes happen, and I appreciate your apology."With tears in her eyes, the salesgirl stood up, relieved by Gabriel's forgiveness. "Thank you, sir," she said earnestly, her voice trembling with emotion.Gabriel offered her a reassuring smile before turning to the manager. "Thank you for handling the situation," he said appreciatively.The manager smiled warmly and the
The day of Camella’s delivery was a difficult one. The air was thick with tension, and Gabriel paced the hospital corridor, his face lined with worry. His heart pounded each time he heard footsteps approach, hoping for news. Dan stood beside him, trying his best to calm him down."She's strong, Gabriel. She'll get through this," Dan said, placing a hand on his shoulder. Zoe nodded in support. "Remember how well she did with Jessie? She can do it again."Gabriel nodded but his eyes were distant, full of concern. "I know, but this is different. The doctors said there were complications. It wasn’t like this with Jessie."Dan sighed. "Sometimes things don’t go as planned, but she’s in good hands. You have to trust that."Time dragged on, each minute feeling like an hour. Then, finally, the door to the delivery room opened, and the doctor emerged. His expression was serious, almost grave, and Gabriel's heart sank."Doctor, is she okay? Is the baby okay?" Gabriel asked, his voice almost bre
Gabriel's return was like a sudden burst of light piercing through the darkness that had settled in the room where his body was laid before he left, making his way downstairs. His family had been sitting in silence in the living room, weighed down by a sense of gloom, each lost in their thoughts when his voice echoed softly from the doorway."I'm back," Gabriel said, his tone gentle but firm, as though those two words were enough to bring peace to the chaos that had lingered. Everyone's heads snapped up, eyes widening in disbelief. Camella was the first to react, tears spilling down her cheeks as she rushed toward him. "Gabriel! You're...you're here!" she choked out, wrapping her arms around him tightly. "Yes, I'm here," he whispered, holding her close. "I’m back, and everything is going to be alright." Soon, the others joined in, surrounding him, their faces a mix of relief, joy, and astonishment. Marie, his mother, was tearful as she cupped his face, studying him as if she couldn
Gabriel’s eyes remained steady as he faced Thelma. Her expression was tense, eyes flickering with a mix of urgency and despair. She had tried reasoning with him, threatening him, yet he stood firm, his gaze unwavering. “Gabriel, this is the last chance you’d get. Forever,” Thelma's voice trembled, but it was clear she meant every word.Gabriel let out a slow breath. “Let it be so. Please, go save your mother. She doesn’t deserve to die at my expense.”Thelma blinked as if she hadn’t expected such calmness. Her eyes, filled with confusion, fixed on him. “The life is ebbing from you,” she said, stepping closer. “And my mother… for her to be restored, she needs the magical ring you’re putting on.” Gabriel glanced down at the ring, a simple yet powerful artifact, now glinting in the dim light. He looked back up at her, his lips curling into a sad smile. Without a word, he slowly slid the ring off his finger and held it out to her. “You can use it to save her.”Thelma was stunned. “Are y
In the dimly lit hall of Noctura, Seraphina’s laughter echoed against the stone walls, her eyes gleaming with a sadistic delight. Gabriel stirred, groaning as he slowly regained consciousness. His eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the sight before him—Seraphina, standing there with a mocking grin, her shoulders shaking with laughter.“Why are you laughing?” he asked, his voice hoarse, barely masking his confusion. “Do I look amusing to you, lying here wrecked like this?”“Not really,” Seraphina replied, her lips curling. “Actually, I played a little trick earlier, and it seems to be working. I can hear the cries echoing all around. They’re devastated… those weak humans.”Gabriel frowned, trying to process her words. “What do you mean?”She stepped closer, her dark eyes glinting as she leaned down, speaking in a low, deliberate tone. “I gave you a claim mark,” she said, her fingers lightly brushing his arm. “It’s imprinted right there, on your skin.”Gabriel’s eyes widened as he looked
Gabriel was thrown back into his dark, cold cell, his body bruised and battered. The guards had shown no mercy, following Queen Seraphina's orders to the letter. They took turns flogging him, their harsh laughter echoing off the stone walls. He had barely any strength left, yet he forced himself to stay conscious, unwilling to give them the satisfaction of seeing him break. After the beatings, they chained him up, suspending his arms so he couldn’t lie down. The heavy chains cut into his wrists, but he bit down hard, swallowing his pain. As if that wasn’t enough, cold water was splashed on him, drenching him, making the chill seep deep into his bones. It was all part of the queen’s relentless torment. Meanwhile, Thelma watched from the shadows, her heart aching. Her mother’s cruelty had gone too far. But she had been powerless to stop it, her powers restricted under strict orders from Seraphina. She clenched her fists, unable to bear seeing Gabriel in this condition any longer. Gath
Thelma stood there, her gaze fixed on Gabriel, her eyes shimmering with a mixture of determination and longing. Gabriel, shackled and weary, looked up, confused. "Why are you here, Thelma?" he asked, his voice rough from exhaustion.Thelma hesitated for a moment, then spoke softly, "Why? Do I need a reason?""Yes," Gabriel replied, his eyes narrowing. "Answer that. I'm sure your queen won't want you to be here.""Yes, my mother would be furious," Thelma admitted, her voice barely a whisper. "But I don't care. I just care about you."Gabriel's expression softened, but he was still cautious. "What?""Yes," she said, her eyes shining. "I care about you and... I want you to marry me."Gabriel's eyes widened, disbelief written all over his face. "Marry you?"Thelma took a step closer, her gaze unflinching. "Yes. Marry me. I can help you." He stared at her silently, trying to read her intentions, but she continued, her voice pleading. "I promise you, Gabriel, if you marry me, I can vouch t
Zoe felt a chill run down her spine, and she struggled to find words. "I... I didn’t know," she said, barely able to process what Tamara was saying.Camella, though lost in her own world of grief, heard Tamara’s last words and turned, her eyes wide with horror. “What are you saying?” she whispered, her lips trembling. “Someone has to die... for him to wake up?”Tamara hesitated, seeing the fear in Camella's eyes. "I wish it wasn't true, but... yes. That’s how it works. It’s a cruel trade," she said softly, her own voice betraying her sadness.Camella felt the room spin for a moment, her heart pounding. She looked at Gabriel, her lips quivering as she whispered, “No... there has to be another way. There has to be.”Zoe moved closer to Tamara, her mind reeling from the revelation. “Is there really no other way?” she asked, almost pleading."I've searched, Zoe," Tamara said, shaking her head. "But the truth is, in his condition, if he wants to return, a life must be taken. It’s not someth
Gabriel stood there, his breath heavy, the dark silhouette of the creature looming over him. It was unlike anything he had ever seen—a twisted mix of shadows and fangs, with eyes that seemed to glint even in the darkness. His heart pounded as he gripped the hilt of an available sword tighter, the sweat from his palms making it slick. He knew he had to act fast, but the creature’s movements were unpredictable, darting around him, taunting him.“Come on,” he muttered to himself, trying to steady his breathing. “Just one opening… that’s all I need.”The creature lunged, and he sidestepped, narrowly avoiding its sharp claws. The air was thick, almost suffocating, and his muscles ached from the strain of dodging and countering. He swung his sword, managing to nick the creature’s side, but it only hissed, unfazed, and retreated into the shadows. The brief moment of reprieve was shattered when he heard the snorting and stomping behind him. Turning, he saw the massive bull charging toward him
More machines attacked, but Gabriel was relentless, his mind focused on one thing: survival. He fought with a ferocity he didn’t know he had, each blow more powerful than the last. For every machine that attacked, he countered with swift, brutal precision, his eyes glowing brighter with every strike.As he stood amidst the shattered remains of the machines, his chest heaving, he heard Seraphina’s voice echo through the realm. “Impressive, Gabriel. But this is only the beginning. You will break, and you will serve me… or you will die.”Gabriel looked around, wiping the sweat from his brow, his breath ragged but steady. “I’ll never be yours,” he shouted defiantly, his voice echoing through the dark, empty expanse of Noctura. “I will find a way out of this place, and I will destroy everything you throw at me.”Seraphina's laughter echoed, dark and mocking. “We shall see, Gabriel. We shall see.”As the darkness around him deepened, Gabriel steeled himself, knowing that this was only the b