Goodbye, My Love

Startled by his sudden action, Loraine did not pull away. Instead, she reciprocated the hug, gently rubbing his back in a soothing manner.

Marco, intoxicated, buried his face in her neck, his rough stubble grazing against her skin. Content property of NôvelDra/ma.Org.

The strong aroma of alcohol was overpowering, and in that moment,

Loraine felt a certain intoxication as well, despite not having consumed any alcohol.

As Marco’s breaths turned labored, he inadvertently brushed his lips against the base of her neck, evoking a soft gasp from Loraine.

A N G E L A ‘s L I B R A R Y

“Um…”

Her restrained, chilly, and fragmented whisper sparked an ambiguous tension in the air.

As Marco continued to kiss up her neck, Loraine was overtaken by a tremor. However, he persisted, showing no signs of releasing her.

Just as the situation was about to escalate, Loraine stumbled over a wine bottle on the ground, tumbling onto the rocking chair along with

Marco.

Snapping back to reality, Loraine swiftly pushed him aside and hastily straightened her disheveled clothes.

Marco, pulled back into reality, gazed around the chaotic balcony and shook his head. Now was not the appropriate time for this. The timing and location were completely inappropriate.

“I let my desires control me. I’m sorry,” he apologized.

Loraine, in an attempt to shift the awkwardness, suggested, “Let me fetch you some water to help sober up.”

Marco had been drinking for quite a while, exposed to the cool evening air on the balcony, and she was genuinely worried for him. She assisted him back inside, provided him with water, and arranged for fresh clothing for his shower.

Freshened up, Marco still appeared a bit disheartened, but he managed to regain his customary polished demeanor, looking much more presentable.

Loraine then offered, “Would you like me to assist with dealing with the online gossip?”

Marco had been her support in the past. Now, she wished to reciprocate.

Marco shook his head and softly declined, “That’s not necessary. Your empathy is more than enough. Trust me, I won’t be easily slandered or pushed around.”

Loraine paused momentarily before suggesting, “At least switch on your phone, so people don’t worry.”

Heeding her advice, Marco switched on his phone. Immediately, a call from Carl came through.

“Mr. Bryant, finally you picked up! Where are you? You…”

Marco cut him off and calmly issued several directives. After writing them down, Carl informed, “Mr. Bryant, we’ve managed to quash the online rumors, but the board’s shareholders are pressing for an early meeting.”