Return With His Quartet

Chapter 1

In the sky above, thunder rumbled, sending shivers down Aurora's spine. Startled, she lost her balance and landed on her backside, completely taken aback.

She found herself in her childhood home, tucked away in the countryside. The house, now dilapidated, was surrounded by piles of firewood and overgrown weeds. In the pitch-black room, she could barely make out her surroundings.

Ever since she was a child, Aurora had been plagued by a fear of the dark. Determined to keep her anxiety at bay, she stumbled towards the door, desperately pounding on it. "Is anyone there? Open the door!"

The only response she received was the relentless sound of rain pouring outside. Silence echoed through the empty house. She had only come to collect firewood and somehow ended up trapped within these walls.

The old house was tightly sealed, with walls enclosing it on all sides. The roof tiles, worn and weathered, threatened to collapse, some already falling off sporadically. There was a single wooden door that served as her only means of escape, but no matter how hard she pushed, it refused to budge.

A deafening clap of thunder split the sky, causing Aurora to flinch. Then, with a resounding thud, something crashed through the roof, creating a cacophony of noise.

"Ahh!" Aurora shrieked in terror.

The roof now boasted a gaping hole, allowing the rain to pour in, illuminating the darkened room with each flash of lightning.

Her heart pounding in her chest, Aurora watched in horror as a man lay sprawled on the ground. He had fallen through the roof! The way he curled up suggested immense pain.

"Are you okay?" she asked, cautiously keeping her distance.

There was no response from the man. Could he be dead?

Aurora's pulse quickened, and she gingerly approached, attempting to assess his condition. Suddenly, the man's hand shot out, grabbing hers tightly.

Before she could let out a scream, he covered her mouth with his hand, holding her from behind. His grip felt damp, the scent of blood lingering in the air.

"Don't worry."I won't kill you," the man's voice resonated with a deep, primal power, tinged with a hint of faltering control. It carried a breathless quality that sent shivers down Aurora's spine.

Fear widened Aurora's eyes, and she nodded fervently, silently promising not to scream. The man cautiously removed his hand from her mouth, only to collapse onto the ground moments later.

Reacting swiftly, Aurora caught him, but their balance faltered, causing her to tumble on top of him. In that split second, their lips accidentally brushed against each other.

A low grunt escaped the man's throat, his warm breath caressing Aurora's nose and dispelling the cold night air with a comforting heat. "Save me, and I'll grant your every desire," he rasped, his voice rough and almost hoarse as he whispered into Aurora's ear.

Before Aurora could utter a word, his lips claimed hers, igniting a storm within them. Lightning streaked across the sky, illuminating their entangled bodies, casting dancing shadows, and saturating the air with an undeniable fervor.

Time ceased to exist as their passion consumed them, until eventually, Aurora succumbed to unconsciousness.

Suddenly, a loud noise shattered the silence from above. A helicopter hovered low in the sky, its purpose clear to the man. He glanced up, knowing it had arrived for him. Seizing the fleeting illumination of lightning, he tenderly traced his fingers along the woman's face beside him.

Dim light hindered his vision, preventing him from discerning her features, yet he could feel the warmth and softness of her skin. Removing an emerald pendant, a cherished family heirloom, from around his neck, he placed it gently into her palm. "This shall be our token. Use it to find me."

Reluctantly, he knew he had to depart. Aurora remained unconscious as he ascended the ladder that dangled from the helicopter, leaving her behind.

With the break of dawn, Aurora awoke with a jolt. The events of the previous night flooded her mind, the man's heavy, passionate breath echoing in her ears, igniting an intense blush on her cheeks.

Was it merely a provocative dream she had experienced? She shifted slightly, feeling soreness pervade her entire being. Glancing down, she noticed her disheveled clothes, barely clinging to her body.As the realization sank in, she was jolted awake from her dreamlike state. It wasn't a figment of her imagination; it was all too real. Casting her eyes around, she found herself alone. The man had vanished, leaving behind only remnants of their encounter.

Slowly, she rose from the straw-strewn floor, her body pulsating with an unfamiliar ache. Blood stained the ground beneath her, a haunting reminder of the previous night's events. Confusion mingled with the pain as she tried to decipher what had truly transpired. Had the blood spilled from her own wounds or his? The man had been injured, that much she could discern through the haze of her memories. But what lingered within her was the abrupt loss of her innocence, a disorienting twist to her existence.

Tears threatened to spill from her eyes, but she fought against them, gazing upwards through the dilapidated roof. The sky beckoned with its growing brightness, the rain-washed expanse devoid of clouds. Dawn was breaking, a symbol of new beginnings. Yet her mind remained trapped in the darkness of the previous night, stormy and unforgiving.

A surge of emotions coursed through her, blending anger with sorrow. In her hand, she discovered an emerald pendant, a token left behind by the man. Fueled by fury, she flung the jewelry to the ground, a futile attempt to rid herself of his hollow offerings. How dare he think a trinket could compensate for the theft of her virtue?

With newfound determination, she closed her fingers around a large rock, smashing through the wooden door that confined her. A path lay before her, leading back to her own abode just meters away. She trudged through the muddy terrain, each step a testament to her resilience.

Pushing open the door, she was met with a sight that caused her head to throb with pain. Her boyfriend lay entangled in the sheets with her own cousin, their clothes scattered haphazardly across the floor. It was as if a knife had sliced through her heart, leaving it raw and bleeding.

Timothy, her partner of two years during their college days, had accompanied her to her hometown for a summer rendezvous with her mother. Their plans of marriage had seemed solid, prompting her to invite him into her most sacred space. Little had she expected her mother's sudden departure, leaving them alone to confront this betrayal.

The weight of her emotions threatened to consume her, but she refused to be defeated. She would reclaim her autonomy, her spirit unyielding. The journey ahead would be treacherous, but she would rise from the ashes, forging a new destiny untethered by the shackles of deceit.So, left to entertain Timothy alone, Aurora found herself relying on her own resourcefulness. Thankfully, her cousin had arrived to lend a hand in the kitchen. After dinner, her cousin insisted that Aurora fetch some firewood for a bath.

In the underdeveloped countryside, it was common for families to use straw and firewood to heat water for bathing. Unbeknownst to Aurora, as soon as she stepped into the old house where the firewood was stored, the door locked behind her, trapping her inside. Darkness enveloped her, and without her phone, she was unable to see anything. To make matters worse, the rain began to pour outside, making it impossible for her to escape.

Imprisoned against her will, Aurora felt a deep sense of violation. Her virginity had been taken from her by a stranger, leaving her physically and emotionally traumatized. She had hoped that Timothy would offer her solace, perhaps even shed a few tears with her. Little did she know that he would deliver the final blow when she was at her most vulnerable.

The first to awaken, Celeste let out a startled scream. "What the hell! Aurora, let me explain. We got drunk last night, and I thought he was my boyfriend. I just…"

Timothy, too, was jolted awake. Surveying the chaotic scene, he saw Aurora beside him, disheveled and distraught. Hastily dressing himself, he stuttered, "Aurora, I thought it was you last night…"

"Shut up!" Aurora growled, tears streaming down her face like an unstoppable torrent. "Let's break up!"

With that, she spun around and fled from the room. Timothy quickly scrambled to get dressed and chased after her.

Aurora sprinted towards the dilapidated old house, determined to find the pendant and confront the man responsible for her anguish. But as she entered the worn-down structure, weakened by years of neglect and drenched from the previous night's rain, it collapsed with a resounding crash, bringing a neighboring house down with it.

Hoarsely, Timothy called out to Aurora, his voice filled with desperation and regret.

Chapter 2

: Five Years Later

The train station in Starhaven buzzed with activity as Aurora hurried through the crowd, burdened by an assortment of packages slung over her shoulder. Behind her trailed four adorable children, their tiny legs waddling like little penguins. Their cherubic faces attracted the attention of passersby, who couldn't help but smile at the sight.

Aurora's mother, Holly, huffed and grumbled, her voice tinged with exhaustion. "I've been chasing after you all day, running myself ragged. I can't even remember the last time I had a moment to rest. You sure know how to pop out babies like rabbits, giving me four grandkids in one go. I'm stuck babysitting all the time, with no time for fun. And just look at my clothes, they're practically falling apart. Who wears stuff like this nowadays?"

Five years ago, even the most fertile sow wouldn't have been able to match the rate at which Aurora expanded her family.

Struggling under the weight of her luggage, Aurora gasped for breath before responding, "Mom, I appreciate everything you do. I promise, once I find a better-paying job, I'll buy you new clothes." The responsibility of supporting four kids weighed heavily on both of them.

Five years ago, Aurora's innocence was shattered on a stormy night. She longed to reclaim the pendant and find the man responsible, but fate had other plans. The old house collapsed in a sudden fury, narrowly sparing Aurora's life as she stood beneath a gaping hole in the roof. Three months later, she discovered that she was pregnant, a cruel twist of fate that left her reeling.

Her life was in ruins, and she yearned to hold the man accountable. But the pendant he left behind was lost in the rubble, reduced to nothing more than dust. She searched tirelessly, but found no trace of him. Without any clues or memory of his face, finding him seemed as impossible as finding a needle in a haystack.

As Aurora embarked on her journey back to Starhaven, she carried the weight of her past and the hope for a better future. Little did she know that her path would lead her to unexpected encounters and profound revelations that would shape the destiny of her family.She had been shattered, her heart in pieces, contemplating the idea of terminating her pregnancy. But in the end, she made the courageous decision to embrace motherhood, sacrificing her education and returning to her hometown to give birth.

Since then, Aurora's life had been a rollercoaster of hardship and joy, raising her four precious children. In the bustling city of Starhaven, where competition was fierce and opportunities scarce, making ends meet was a constant battle.

Holly, worn down and despondent, voiced her frustrations, "You can barely afford to feed the kids. How are you going to provide for me? Look at me, struggling with four children and hauling all this luggage. I'm beyond exhausted."

Robert, a dashing young lad, stepped forward, offering his assistance. "Granny, let me help you with the bags," he said with genuine concern.

With a cool demeanor and a kind heart, Robert took the water bottle from Holly's bag and shared it with his siblings, lightening their grandmother's load.

"Granny, thank you. When we get home, I'll give you a soothing back rub," Bryan gently offered, his eyes shining with compassion. Despite being a boy, he possessed an ethereal beauty that resembled that of a delicate girl.

Not to be outdone, Pandora chimed in, "Granny, I'll give you a massage too!" Her big eyes framed by long lashes and her cherubic cheeks made her look like a living doll.

Seraphine, donning a baseball cap and exuding a cool aura, added, "Granny, I want to cook for you." Her clear eyes radiated positivity and determination.

The innocent words of the four little ones melted Aurora's heart. In an instant, her weariness dissipated, replaced by a renewed sense of purpose.

Her children, Robert, Bryan, Pandora, and Seraphine, were not just names but bearers of profound meanings. Robert and Bryan embodied masculinity, while Pandora and Seraphine exuded femininity and grace.Every time Aurora caught sight of her children's innocent smiles, a surge of energy coursed through her veins, erasing any trace of fatigue that clung to her weary bones. Their playful chatter acted as a magnet, drawing the attention of passersby who couldn't help but cast curious and joyful glances at the four enchanting souls in Aurora's care.

"Wow, these kids are something else! They can cook and give massages? You must be one lucky grandma," a passerby marveled at Holly, unable to contain their admiration for the remarkable brood.

"Such well-mannered and sensible children! Their parents must be truly exceptional," a sophisticated woman chimed in, her words dripping with genuine praise.

Words of adoration filled the air, like a symphony celebrating the extraordinary nature of Aurora's little ones. With each compliment, Holly's grin stretched from ear to ear, her heart swelling with pride. She couldn't wait to boast about her daughter's incredible offspring, as if they were the ultimate testament to her own existence.

"They are like angels descended from heaven, always smiling and ever so sensible," Holly proudly proclaimed to the onlooking crowd, her eyes shimmering with a mixture of joy and contentment.

Aurora stood by, allowing her mother to revel in this rare moment of pure happiness. She didn't want to taint the occasion with her own worries and concerns. After what felt like an eternity, they finally arrived at their modest living quarters in Starhaven.

For years, Aurora had chosen to rent a place in Starhaven, knowing that the wages here were higher than anywhere else. It was a sacrifice she willingly made, knowing that her mother, Holly, would be there to care for her precious children in her absence.

This time, however, Aurora had been forced to return home for a week due to pressing family matters. Now, she was back in Starhaven, burdened with bags of all sizes, most of which were filled with the belongings of her four little ones.

Once the room was tidied up to her satisfaction, Aurora turned to Holly and said, "Mom, I have a part-time job tonight. I need to leave now. I've already fried some eggs and made toast, so just heat up some milk for the kids."

"Alright, I've got it. You go ahead and be careful on the road," Holly replied, her impatience barely masked by her words. Even in her haste, she couldn't help but remind Aurora to take caution, a testament to her unwavering love and concern.With a delicate touch, Aurora applied a light layer of makeup, enhancing her natural beauty. This part-time job had been a fortunate find during her train ride. Joining a part-time job group had opened up opportunities for her to discover new gigs and their corresponding daily wages.

Tonight's task was to work as a waitress in a popular nightclub, serving drinks to the patrons and promoting the establishment's signature cocktails. As she arrived at Sapphire Skyline in Starhaven, Aurora was directed to put on the nightclub's uniform.

The uniform was a short black skirt, daringly revealing her inner thighs with every step. Its V-neck design, if not handled with caution, could expose a hint of cleavage. Aurora was unaccustomed to such attire, having never worn anything like it before. However, the prospect of earning two hundred bucks in a single night, and the possibility of additional commission by selling bottles of alcohol, outweighed any discomfort she felt.

Even if she couldn't manage to sell any liquor, the two hundred bucks from this part-time job would be enough to buy her four kids new clothes. Their wardrobes were in dire need of an update, especially with the colder weather approaching. Aurora was determined to make the most of this opportunity, no matter how uneasy it made her.

"Aurora, someone in the V8 VIP room has requested premium cigarettes. Take this tray with you and deliver them. And don't underestimate the two bottles of alcohol on it; they're worth 20k each. If you manage to sell one, you'll earn a thousand bucks in commission." The nightclub manager halted Aurora's progress and handed her the tray.

Aurora nodded eagerly. "Okay, I'll do my best."

"Just a heads up, the people in V8 are high rollers. Tread lightly around them, or you might unintentionally offend them," the manager warned, emphasizing the importance of caution.

Chapter 3

Aurora carefully balanced a tray, navigating through the bustling crowd towards VB. The weight of the expensive booze made her heart race with anxiety, fearing that one wrong move could send it all crashing to the ground.

Out of nowhere, someone collided with Aurora, causing her to let out a startled yelp. Her grip tightened on the tray, desperately trying to keep everything intact. Thankfully, the bottles remained unscathed.

Before she could even gather herself, a sharp, biting voice pierced the air. "What's your problem? Can't you apologize after bumping into someone?"

Aurora turned to face the newcomer, her eyes meeting a face filled with hostility. It wasn't her fault, but as a waitress, the customer always came first. She opened her mouth to apologize, but the woman's animosity made her think twice.

"You!" Aurora exclaimed, surprised.

"Your!" The woman echoed, equally taken aback.

Celeste scrutinized Aurora with a snicker, her gaze filled with mockery. "Well, well, I never expected to see you slumming it in a nightclub. If you're struggling, you should have come to me. I could have found you decent work. After all, we're family. We're supposed to help each other."

Ever since Celeste laid eyes on Aurora's boyfriend, Timothy, she had been infatuated. He was undeniably attractive, far more appealing than her own partner. Wicked ideas swirled in her mind as she offered to assist Aurora with cooking, secretly plotting to get Timothy alone.

And she succeeded.

Under the guise of needing firewood for a bath, Celeste locked Aurora in the woodshed, leaving her vulnerable. She manipulated Timothy into drinking and took advantage of his intoxicated state, engaging in a betrayal that would forever scar Aurora's heart.

But despite Celeste's relentless pursuit, Timothy showed no interest in her. He remained devoted to Aurora, causing Celeste to eventually abandon her futile efforts.

Aurora shot Celeste a venomous look, her eyes filled with anger and pain."Excuse me, could you please move? You're blocking my way," Aurora firmly stated, her voice laced with determination.

Aurora was no fool. She couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that it was Celeste who had orchestrated her confinement in the shed, while shamelessly seducing Timothy in the process. The incident had left a bitter taste in her mouth, and now she suspected Celeste of ruining her once bright future. This conniving woman had no shame.

Life had proven to be unfair, as it often does. Celeste somehow stumbled upon a large sum of money, started a successful business, and even managed to snag a wealthy boyfriend. It was infuriating for Aurora to hear others sing Celeste's praises, talking about how blissful her life had become. It was like rubbing salt in her wounds.

Fueled by her resentment, Celeste lost her cool. "How dare you talk to me like that?" she snapped, rolling up her sleeves, ready for a fight. She had always harbored a deep dislike for Aurora, envying her alluring face and seductive charm that effortlessly entranced men, including Timothy.

But before Celeste could confront Aurora, the door to the VIP room swung open, revealing a man with an aristocratic air. His presence demanded attention. "What's all this noise? Shouldn't you be delivering the order?" he asked, his voice dripping with authority.

Celeste glanced at him and instantly recognized Walter, the notorious heir to the Falconer group. She knew better than to mess with someone like him. With a polite nod and a curtsey, still bowing slightly, she quickly ushered her friends away. She was here to have fun, not to engage in a pointless altercation and risk offending such an influential figure.

As Celeste made her exit, Aurora took a deep breath, her heart pounding. She checked the room number, V8. "I apologize for the delay. I'll deliver your order right away," she responded, her voice filled with sincerity.

"Hurry up," the man urged, his impatience evident.

Aurora entered the room, carefully placing the cigarettes they had ordered on the table. Her eyes scanned the room, taking in the sight of the four men, each accompanied by two beautiful women.In the dimly lit nightclub, a chorus of sweet and gentle voices filled the air. Women gracefully fed the men succulent fruit, while others delicately lit their cigarettes. However, amidst this scene of enchantment, one man sat alone, devoid of female companionship.

This man possessed an undeniable handsomeness, his dark and brooding aura exuding an air of nobility and intimidation. While the other men flirted and sang, he remained engrossed in his phone, seemingly engrossed in work.

Aurora, new to the nightclub scene, desired to sell drinks and earn a commission. The thought of earning a thousand dollars, enough to sustain her children's meals for two months, fueled her determination. And it seemed her best opportunity lay with this solitary man, as he appeared to have the time to entertain her. Yet, she couldn't help but feel intimidated by his commanding presence, unsure of how to initiate a conversation.

Observing her hesitation, Walter, the man who had opened the door earlier, sneered after biting into a piece of fruit offered by a woman. "What's the matter, darling? Are you aiming for a seat next to our Steven?"

Callum, the CEO of the Draven group, chimed in, "Another fearless soul attempting to seduce Steven. Don't bother, love. Steven only has eyes for one, and it certainly isn't you."

Edward Crawley of the Crawley Group joined the banter, jesting, "Steven could have any woman he desires. Yet, his heart remains devoted to a woman who is no longer with us. He harbors no interest in anyone else."

Aurora's interest piqued as she learned of this hunky man's tragic love story. It appeared that his heart belonged solely to a woman who had departed this world. Such unwavering loyalty begged the question of which fortunate lady had captured his devoted affections.

Amidst the playful banter, Aurora yearned to avoid any misunderstandings. She wanted to approach this man named Steven with sincerity and authenticity.She had no intention of making a move on this attractive man. As a mother of four, her romantic notions had long been worn down by the realities of life - who had time for that? 

Clarifying her intentions, she said, "Gentlemen, you've got it all wrong. I simply wanted to inquire if anyone would be interested in joining me for a drink. Our selection of alcohol here is quite impressive." 

The young men continued to play around, and Steven didn't even bother looking up. But when Aurora spoke, he couldn't help but be drawn to her. His eyes, as deep as the night sky, were fixed on her. 

Her voice was like a bolt of lightning, unlocking something deep within him, a feeling that had long been buried. Why did this woman's voice sound so familiar? 

"Is the booze really good? Have you tried it?" Walter changed the subject. 

Aurora replied honestly, "Nope." 

"Well then, crack open a bottle, give it a try, and let us know what it's like. If it's good, we'll buy it. If not, apologies, but we don't settle for subpar alcohol," Callum stated, looking on expectantly. They could have dismissed her, but Steven actually paid attention to her. He didn't get angry or ask her to leave. It was strange! 

For the first time, Steven didn't send away a woman who seemed interested in him. Could it be that he was genuinely intrigued by Aurora? How could they miss this golden opportunity to tease Steven? 

Aurora felt trapped. How was she supposed to know what kind of booze they preferred? 

If she opened a bottle and they didn't like it, would she have to foot the bill? These guys were cunning; they were just messing with her. 

If she left now, she would offend them, and they would think she was disrespecting them. 

Aurora found herself caught between a rock and a hard place. But she knew she could handle it. 

"How about this? I'll pour a glass for each of your ladies, let them taste it, and have them tell you what it's like. This way, you won't think I'm overselling it. How does that sound?" Aurora cleverly shifted the responsibility onto them.

Chapter 4

: A Toast to Steven's Return

The allure of a $20,000 bottle of booze hung heavy in the air, tempting and taunting Aurora. She longed to take a chance, to pour that liquid gold and witness its transformative power. But deep down, she knew that her lack of financial means could not withstand the consequences of failure.

"Great idea," Walter declared, taking charge of the situation. He motioned for the crew to assemble, ready for the grand unveiling.

Aurora couldn't help but seek reassurance. "Are you all absolutely certain about this?" she asked, her voice tinged with a hint of doubt.

"Enough with the chatter, just pour the damn drinks!" Walter barked, impatience coloring his words.

With newfound confidence, Aurora uncorked the bottle, its contents shimmering with promise. She approached Callum, flanked by two stunning women, and placed two glasses before them. As she leaned over to pour, her neckline plunged and her dress rode up, revealing a tantalizing sight.

Unbeknownst to Aurora, Steven's gaze fell upon this unexpected display. His eyebrows furrowed ever so slightly, a flicker of intrigue dancing in his eyes.

Moving on, Aurora poured for Callum, Edward, and the ladies accompanying Walter. Standing tall, she maintained her professional smile. "Ladies, please enjoy."

Upon receiving the silent approval from their gentlemen, the women took a sip, their unanimous appreciation evident. "Delicious!" they chorused, their words dripping with satisfaction.

In this world of opulence and privilege, the women knew how to play their part, skillfully stroking the egos of these wealthy men. Who would dare risk uttering a negative word about the wine?

In such a delicate setting, it was understood that one mustn't rock the boat.

"Do you hear that?" Walter's voice cut through the air, his tone laced with authority. "They all love it. Aren't you going to pour one for Steven? After all, he's the man of the hour tonight. If you overlook him, there will be consequences."

Tonight marked a special occasion as the notorious young masters of Starhaven, Callum, Edward, and Walter, gathered to celebrate Steven's return. The air crackled with anticipation, each sip of wine symbolic of their shared camaraderie and unspoken secrets.Aurora swiftly received the message, snatching the bottle and gracefully leaned over to pour a drink for Steven. With utmost care, she poured, completely unaware of the intense heat of his gaze fixated on her plunging neckline. Once the task was complete, she looked up, addressing him with respect and courtesy, "Sir, enjoy."

In a fleeting glance, she caught sight of his eyes, deep as an abyss and sharp as a sword, sending shivers down her spine. She immediately questioned herself, wondering if she had done something to provoke his anger. Why else would he be staring at her with such piercing intensity?

"Sir, is everything alright?" Aurora spoke cautiously, her voice barely above a whisper, fearing that she had made a mistake.

To Steven's ears, her words resembled a woman's soft moan. Just like the woman from five years ago.

That night, the woman's voice had been sweet and vulnerable, like that of a helpless kitten. But why did this woman's voice evoke such memories?

Five years ago, he had been engaged in a battle with his enemy aboard a helicopter. Drugged and injured, he had fallen from the aircraft and encountered a woman. Following the incident, he sought treatment abroad and had only returned today.

Five years ago, he had dispatched a female secretary to find that woman, only to receive the devastating news of her demise in a building collapse.

Could he have misheard? Was it merely a coincidence that the woman before him possessed a similar voice? Was she not the one he had encountered all those years ago?

Aurora felt a chill run down her spine as she was consumed by his predatory gaze. She hastily rose from her seat, intending to create some distance between them.

However, in her haste, her legs betrayed her, leaving her off balance and tumbling forward, until she found herself landing securely in his arms.Aurora's face was embarrassingly pressed against his, feeling the tension and heat emanating from the man's skin. It sent a rush through her veins, causing her heart to race. The other three onlookers couldn't help but tease and comment on the unexpected situation.

"Whoa, Steven, love's knocking on your door," one of them exclaimed excitedly.

"Hey, miss, what's your name? You've got guts," another chimed in.

"Did I just see Steven being taken down by a woman? OMG, I'm gonna remember this for the rest of my life," the third added, clearly amused.

Aurora was in a state of panic. She quickly tried to stand up, using his chest for support. However, in her haste, she slipped and fell on him once again, her face bumping against his. She felt even more flustered now.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to..." she stammered, her words trailing off.

Fear gripped her, leaving her too weak to get up. She was prepared to roll onto the nearby sofa when he suddenly grabbed her wrist. His eyes were cold, his face calm, yet there was a hint of excitement in his demeanor.

"What's your name?" he asked, his grip tight.

Aurora winced in pain from his strong hold. She was both hurt and scared. The situation had spiraled out of control due to her accidental fall, and it seemed to have angered him. 

But little did she know, he was not only doubting her identity, but also grappling with his own desires. He had touched another woman's face that fateful night, trying to etch the memory of her soft and sweet cheeks into his mind. He wondered how it was possible for someone else to evoke the same feelings within him.

Unbeknownst to Aurora, Steven's strength surpassed that of an ordinary man due to years of training. Coupled with his fluctuating emotions, he had unknowingly tightened his grip on her wrist, causing her immense pain and distress. It was a chaotic mess, all stemming from an accidental encounter that seemed to have triggered something deep within them both.In a flurry of words, she pleaded her innocence, desperately trying to explain. "Sir, I'm just a waitress here to serve you and promote the wine. I had no intention of seducing you. I truly just lost my balance, and I apologize if I caused you any trouble."

She attempted to retrieve her hand from Steven's grip, but he held on tightly, causing her eyes to well up with tears from the pain.

His gaze was like ice, unwavering and piercing. "Answer my question. What's your name?"

"Holly," Aurora answered, using her mother's ID card for her part-time jobs. She did it so that the money would go directly to her mother's card, making it easier for her to provide for the kids.

Steven's eyes twitched, and he released her hand. The entire village where he had fallen from the helicopter shared the same last name, but hers didn't match. Now free and with her heart still racing, Aurora bowed to him. "Sir, please enjoy your drink. I'll be leaving now."

With those words, she turned on her heel and hurried out. Fearful that the powerful figure in Box VB would come after her, Aurora quickly located the supervisor, collected her commission for selling the wine and her hourly pay, and left Sapphire Skyline.

Meanwhile, inside Box V8, Walter observed the noticeable change in Steven's demeanor towards the woman. He couldn't help but tease, "Steven, need us to drag her over here for you?"

Steven shot him a sharp look. "Seems like you've got plenty of free time. I have a project down in Antarctica that needs someone capable to take charge. Maybe you'd like to volunteer?"

"Alright, alright, I'll shut my trap. Didn't say a thing," Walter quickly backed down, knowing when to drop a topic. "Steven, this red wine is truly top-notch. You should give it a try."

Ignoring the wine, Steven stepped out of the box and made a phone call to his chief bodyguard. "That woman I asked you to look for five years ago, are you sure she's dead?" His voice carried a cold and hardened tone, with a hint of anticipation.

Chapter 5

The captain of the bodyguards spoke with unwavering certainty. "I'm sure that woman is dead," he declared, his voice filled with conviction.

Memories of their visit to Hollowbrook flooded back to him. "Remember when we went there? We stumbled upon a family in mourning. The lady of the house was heartbroken, telling me her precious one had been crushed to death." The captain's recollection of the situation began to take shape.

He refrained from prying further, sensing the woman's immense grief. Instead, he discreetly inquired around the village and discovered that the family had only one daughter. The funeral, the mother's inconsolable cries, and her insistence that her precious one had perished under the weight of a collapsing old house—there was no doubt in his mind. The daughter was gone.

"Okay," Steven sighed, his hope dwindling. He had already anticipated this outcome. So why did he still cling to a glimmer of hope?

In the past, Steven had sent his female secretary to find this woman, hoping to bring her to him for a personal negotiation regarding compensation. He chose his secretary because he believed that as a woman, she might find it easier to establish a connection. But when she returned, she shattered his disbelief by confirming the woman's death. Crushed under an old house battered by heavy rain.

Steven couldn't fathom it. To verify the truth, he dispatched the bodyguard captain as well. Though he accompanied them, his injuries prevented him from leaving the car, leaving him to observe from a distance.

The entire village had gathered outside the family's home, enveloped in the somber atmosphere of the funeral. Faced with such a stark reality, what room was there for doubt?

Aurora arrived home around ten at night, exhaustion etched onto her face. The closed doors of the children's rooms indicated they were fast asleep. Holly, engrossed in short videos, looked up in surprise and concern. "You're back early. Did you get fired?" she asked, her voice laced with worry.The part-time job was supposed to keep her out until late, yet here she was, returning home early. Holly's gaze bore into Aurora, who couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. "No, I chose to quit, so I came back early," she confessed, her voice laced with remorse.

"What gives you the right to quit working? We have four kids to take care of. Don't you know our situation at home? How could you just quit on a whim!" Holly's anger surged, propelling her towards Aurora with an unstoppable force.

"I might have pissed someone off. If I kept working, I was worried it would cause trouble," Aurora admitted reluctantly, knowing she couldn't hide the truth from her formidable mother.

"What?" The word escaped Holly's lips as if the very ground beneath her had crumbled. She couldn't comprehend how she ended up with such an unlucky child. Frustration fueled her actions as she jabbed her finger against Aurora's forehead. "How did I end up with such a headache-inducing kid? You're worse than that pig I used to have! My precious sow, crushed by the collapsing house. Oh, my beloved one! Why must life be so cruel to me!" Tears streamed down Holly's face as she spoke, mourning not only her lost pig but also the hardships that seemed to plague her existence.

Aurora, in moments like these, always carried an overwhelming sense of guilt. She knew that she was the source of her mother's pain. Trying to console her, she gently nudged Holly's arm. "Mom, don't be mad. I only worked half a day today, but I earned as much as I usually do in a month. Check your bank account. Did you receive a transfer of over a thousand dollars?"

Holly reached for her phone, her heart pounding with anticipation. As she glanced at her account balance, a thrill of excitement coursed through her. But then, a wave of sorrow crashed over her as she remembered something, leaving her serious and heartbroken."You're such a jinx," Holly exclaimed, frustration etched on her face. "Didn't I tell you before? No matter how hard or tiring, you can't sacrifice your dignity! Did you do something unsavory?" With a forceful shove, she jolted Aurora's head.

Aurora's mind was reeling. She had only been out for a few hours, and yet she had managed to earn a substantial amount of money. Was there really such easy money in this world?

Sensing the immense misunderstanding, Aurora hurriedly explained, desperate to clear the air. "Mom, you're overthinking. I sold a bottle of wine worth twenty grand, got a commission of a thousand dollars, and I worked an extra hour. The manager gave me a bonus because I did well."

Holly halted her hand mid-air, realization dawning upon her. She had misunderstood, but her pride prevented her from admitting her mistake. "If your sales ability is so good, why not keep it up? Isn't it good to earn more money? Who did you offend? Can't you apologize and make peace?"

"He's a big shot," Aurora replied, her voice filled with a mixture of grievance and fear. "I heard others calling him Steven. The manager also said he's some hotshot from Starhaven. I did apologize, but it didn't work, so I'm afraid he'll come after me!"

Aurora didn't hide her fear from her mother. She didn't want to quit her job at the nightclub; making money was tough these days, and a thousand dollars for a day's work was nothing to scoff at. But that man, Steven, was utterly terrifying.

Holly sighed, her expression a mix of concern and resignation. "Ah, life is tough." Though money was important, she didn't want her daughter to risk her safety for it.

Starhaven was rife with wealthy individuals, and those with money and power were always a handful. Offending them was like playing with fire, and Holly knew this all too well.

"Since you're free, you take care of the kids at home. I need to go out," Holly said, her voice tinged with worry.Holly discreetly slipped her phone into her pocket, her expression tinged with secrecy. 

"It's so late, where are you off to?" Aurora's concern radiated from her voice.

"Don't worry about me. Just take care of yourself!" Holly's determination was unwavering.

Casting a quick glance at Aurora, Holly departed, leaving behind a soft sigh from her friend.

Aurora stood before the bedroom door, contemplating a visit to check on her four slumbering children. However, realizing the lateness of the hour, she reasoned that entering their room would only disturb their peaceful rest. Instead, she opted for a soothing shower, hoping it would wash away her worries.

Unbeknownst to Aurora, two of her children were wide awake, their innocent eyes twinkling in the darkness. Robert, her eldest son, and Bryan, her second son, had overheard the conversation between Aurora and Holly.

Whispering to one another, they huddled together, their voices filled with intrigue. "Mom must have angered Steven," Robert concluded, his tone laced with concern.

Curiosity sparked within Bryan as he questioned, "Who is this Steven? Is he truly as formidable as Mom seems to believe? It's disheartening to see our sweet and beautiful mother so frightened by him."

While Robert empathized with their mother's fear, he was a man of action rather than words. Retrieving his tablet from the bedside table, his nimble fingers danced across the screen, revealing a profile of a man.

"Here he is, this is Steven," Robert declared confidently.

Bryan leaned closer, his eyes fixed on the image displayed before them. The photograph showcased a sharply dressed man exuding an air of strength and charisma.

Steven was one of the notorious four young men from Starhaven, the CEO of the esteemed Mitchell Group. His mere name sent shivers down the spines of those who dared to cross his path, for they would face dire consequences.

"No wonder Mom is petrified," Bryan muttered, his lips forming a pout.

Robert's mind raced with a plan. "Let's find him tomorrow and apologize. Perhaps we can persuade him to forgive Mom."

And so, the seeds of determination were sown within the hearts of two young boys, ready to embark on a mission to save their mother from the clutches of fear.

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