Ch. 311..320

Always Been Yours Chapter 311

“But, since you’re here, I think you should really get the full experience of my alma mater. Remember, this is a happy experience, not a sad one.”

Tessa was taken aback for a moment then she understood that Scott was just trying to cheer her up. At that moment, she was touched and warmed by his kindness.

Afterward, the two of them took a detailed tour of the university. Scott was a conscientious tour guide, as he brought her to all the interesting spots in the school. He didn’t even miss out on the school’s grove, at which they interrupted many couples from having a good time.

After leaving the school, he continued to bring her around to visit many famous sights in Vienna. Perhaps it was because of his remarks at the beginning of their adventure; it gave her the chance to let down her hair and actually have fun as she thoroughly enjoyed her day. She felt so great that the smile on her face never disappeared

In the evening, Scott brought Tessa to a local bar with a particularly artistic atmosphere for a drink. Unlike the noisy environment at the other bars, this place was relatively quiet. It was simply the best portrayal of leisure as they enjoyed their time under the yellowish lights, soothing music, and private guest tables.

“I never knew a bar could have such an atmosphere.” Tessa curiously surveyed her surroundings, and her gaze slowly filled with love for this bar.

Scott smiled and said, “If you like it, you could visit more often in the future.”

Tessa nodded and continued drinking with Scott.

As time flew by, it was late at night before they knew it. Scott glanced at the tipsy girl opposite him, and his gaze was particularly gentle. “It’s late. Let me take you back.”

“Is it late?” Tessa dazedly checked her phone for the time. “It’s almost midnight. We should really get going.”

She staggered as she stood up, so he hurriedly stepped forward to help her. After they settled the bill, the two of them walked out of the bar.

“We’re here. Please have a safe trip back. Thank you for today. I truly appreciate it. I’ll treat you to a drink some other day.”

As they arrived at the residence’s entrance, Tessa stumbled out of the car. The fun she had today, coupled with the alcohol in her system, made her feel like she was floating on cloud nine.

Scott was uneasy as he watched Tessa, who was standing outside the car window, swaying left and right due to the alcohol in her system. So, he unbuckled his seat belt, opened the car door, and walked over to her. “Which floor are you on? I’ll escort you home.”

“No, no, it’s fine. I can go back on my own. You should hurry back.” Tessa broke away from Scott and stood firmly to the side, looking much soberer.

Upon noticing that her eyes didn’t look unfocused or too wasted, he didn’t force the matter. Tessa watched as the car gradually disappeared down the road, then she turned and was about to walk back to her unit.

She looked around her room and found that it was dark, and it was evident that no one was in it.

Click! The originally dark living room lit up when she turned on the lights.

Then, she closed the door and walked into the living room, only to find that Nicholas had cleared up the dining table. She didn’t see his clothes on the sofa either. She pursed her lips and sat on the sofa as she stared at the white wall in front of her, her vision unfocused.

There was silence all around, the only sound being the occasional noise of car engines from the cars passing by outside the window.

After a certain period of time, Tessa recovered from her stupor. She breathed a sigh of relief as she saw the empty and silent room. But she didn’t manage to savor that relief until a sharp pain stabbed through her heart.

She couldn’t help but reach up to place her hand on her heart, feeling discomfort in that area, as if something was missing, leaving it empty.

“Isn’t this good? There’s nothing to be sad about,” Tessa comforted herself.

After a while, perhaps her self-hypnosis had an effect, as she didn’t feel so uncomfortable anymore. So, she decided to wash up in her room. However, she hadn’t even taken two steps before a tall, dark figure stepped out from the balcony, to her surprise.

Nicholas came from behind and trapped Tessa up against the wall. Then, a voice

containing slight anger sounded in Tessa’s ears. “That man must be the real reason you’re driving me away, am I right?!”

It turned out that Nicholas, who had been standing on the balcony, saw Scott sending Tessa back. He grew irritated as he thought she might have been with that man the entire day, so his remarks were barbed.

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Tessa was caught off guard when she saw Nicholas suddenly appear in front of her.

“Why haven’t you left yet? You…” She frowned, not knowing what to say.

She then glanced at the balcony. He had obviously misunderstood her relationship with Scott. Not to mention, seeing her being so reluctant to spend time with him angered him even more.

Nicholas sneered, “Why? Are you eager for me to leave so that you can be with your talented musician?”

“I don’t…” Tessa reflexively defended herself. However, she was interrupted by Nicholas’ cold voice before she finished speaking.

“I think you do!”

At this moment, Nicholas’ sanity was occupied by a little something called jealousy. “All that talk about being forced to leave the country and me causing you trouble? I bet those are excuses you’re using because you’re afraid I’ll disturb you from being with other men.”

When Tessa heard his thorny remarks, she felt so embarrassed that she exploded in anger. She didn’t expect that after she gave up everything and left the country, she would be slandered by Nicholas in such a manner.

There was a sharp pain in her chest as if someone was slicing her heart with a blunt knife. She didn’t know what was wrong with her and why she felt so upset when she heard Nicholas’ statements.

“Since you’ve said that, then I’ll tell you this! So what if it’s true?”

Tessa looked broken as she shouted at Nicholas with red-rimmed eyes. “Who are you to me? Why do you care if I’m with someone else? What right do you have to control

me?!”

Nicholas was livid, and the veins on his forehead bulged in his fury. Ha! This woman actually said I have no right to care about this? Oh, the person who has the most qualifications to bother you about this matter is me! Nicholas thought angrily.

She was Gregory’s mother, and since Gregory liked her so much, she couldn’t be involved with other men!

Nicholas’ dark eyes were burning, and he said sharply, “I’m not qualified? So if I became the man in your life, would that make me qualified in your eyes?!”

–

“Nicholas, do you know what you’re saying?”

Tessa stared at Nicholas in astonishment, her eyes filled with shock.

“Of course! I couldn’t be more aware!”

After speaking, he didn’t give her a chance to react, as he immediately picked her up by the waist. Then, he strode to the bedroom and threw her onto the bed.

The bed was soft, and she landed with a bounce before finally recovering from his bold statement

“What are you doing?” she questioned him sharply with a panicked look in her eyes. Her glistening eyes looked like that of a frightened fawn, which only made him want to bully her fiercely.

As he studied her, it was as if something was awoken in his body.

“What am I doing? I’m becoming your man, of course!”

While speaking, he threw the coat he had taken off aside, then pulled off his tie before lowering himself, trapping her between the bed and his arms.

Tessa was frightened when she saw his handsome face looming closer. Upon thinking of Nicholas’ statement, she suddenly panicked. She placed her hands against his chest, her voice trembling with fear. “Go away! Get off me!”

Unfortunately, she couldn’t push his heavy body away no matter how hard she tried. She was so scared that she began to fight back with her entire body, like a trapped beast making a final struggle. There were even a few times when she almost broke free from him.

When he felt her determined resistance, his eyes darkened slightly, and he pressed her harder against the bed.

“Don’t touch me! Get away from me!” she shouted in a hoarse voice.

At this moment, Nicholas noticed that Tessa’s tearful face was filled with desperation. He was taken aback, and his heart suddenly ached. In the end, he gave up on the idea of intimidating Tessa, then lowered his head lovingly and placed a light kiss between her eyebrows.

“Don’t be afraid. I’m not going to do anything to you.”

Tessa closed her eyes as her body shuddered. It took several seconds before she reacted and opened her eyes.

“Is that true?”

With her eyes full of tears, she cast him a dubious look.

“Of course, it’s true.” Nicholas nodded, then paused. His tone changed slightly, and he smiled meaningfully as he continued, “I’m not going to do anything else, but…”

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Nicholas purposefully let his sentence hang in the air, and then he kissed Tessa on the lips. “I must do this!”

Her eyes widened as she felt his lips on hers, and she stared blankly at him as her mind went blank with shock.

He didn’t mind her inattention as he continued to kiss her intently. He kissed her much more tenderly this time than he did the previous night. She was almost immersed in it again. While she was in a trance, her hands unconsciously clutched the sheets under her. The atmosphere in the room gradually became heated.

Before Nicholas let go of Tessa, his breathing heavy, a long time had passed. Looking at the dazed girl on the bed, he made a decision.

“Be with me, Tessa. Come back to me…”

She was stunned when she heard his plea. After being lost in thought for a moment, she exclaimed in shock, “Nicholas, do you know what you’re saying? You must be crazy!”

“I’m not crazy!” He pressed down hard on her shoulders, his face even more solemn than ever before.

He fixed her with his dark gaze. “Whether you believe it or not, I just want to keep you by my side. Not only because Gregory likes you, but because I can’t live without you either!”

Her head exploded with a bang at that declaration, leaving her in a blank state. Her eyes widened, and her dark pupils were filled with disbelief.

“You… Is this you confessing to me?”

“Yes.” He nodded.

Tessa was in utter bewilderment now.

Looking at the girl who had fallen silent again, he pressed her for an answer, “So, what’s your answer?”

She looked at the man’s serious expression. Everything that had been happening lately flashed past her mind, and her mood was a different type of complicated.

If you get involved with my grandson, the people around you will lose their original lives because of you.

At this moment, Remus’ statement rang through her ears.

.

In the end, Tessa closed her eyes, her hoarse voice carrying a hint of bitterness. “I’m

sorry.”

Unsurprisingly, Nicholas’ expression was a little awful. After all, he was rejected after confessing for the first time. Anyone else would’ve been in a bad mood too.

When she saw the bitter look on his face, a trace of fear emerged inside her, and she felt that she had been too hasty with the rejection. She would certainly suffer if he was further enraged, especially since they were alone.

At this thought, she hastened to fix the situation. “Nicholas, I’ve said it before. We’re not suitable for each other, and I can’t afford to be a part of the Sawyer Family. I just want to be an ordinary person and not be held back from doing what I like.”

For some reason, after saying this, Tessa felt her heart ache as if someone had pierced it with a needle.

Although she tried her best to hide the sadness in her eyes, Nicholas still caught it. As he sensed that Tessa wasn’t as indifferent as she seemed, his expression eased slightly. Combined with what she had just said previously, he knew that a large part of the reason she rejected him was because of the pressure from Remus.

As he thought of this issue, his expression was serious as he promised, “If you want to pursue your dream, I won’t stop you, and I’ll even support you. Of course, that also means I will never allow anyone to stop you either.”

She was astonished. She didn’t expect that he would still insist on being with her after such a rejection

The man’s serious voice sounded in her ears again. “You don’t have to care about what other people think, especially those who have opinions about us being together. It’s my marriage, and I can make my own decisions. No one can stop me from doing what I want.”

Nicholas paused for a moment once he said that. Then, he met her gaze fearlessly, and his dark pupils showed deep affection for her.

He said, “Tessa, the only one I want is you.”

She was dazed and flustered, but it was mixed with joy too. However, reason calmed her down in no time. Although Nicholas’ words made her heart flutter, there were too many problems between them. Not to mention, how could Nicholas possibly… like her?

Perhaps he noticed the disbelief in her gaze, so he hurriedly added, “I won’t be accepting any rejections from you.”

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As soon as Nicholas said this, he caused Tessa’s answer to stay lodged in her throat.

When she saw the man’s serious and persistent expression, her heart suddenly softened, and she pursed her lips before saying, “Give me some time to think about it.”

“Okay, I’ll give you time to think it over.” Nicholas noticed the softening of Tessa’s attitude, so he didn’t force the issue anymore. However, in order to prevent her from delaying it any further, he added, “The time is limited to tonight. You must give me an answer tomorrow morning”

“Tomorrow morning? That’s too soon.” Tessa frowned, feeling that it wasn’t enough

time.

He acted as if he didn’t notice her dissatisfaction. Then, he lowered his head and gave her a light kiss, and he said with a smile, “As there isn’t much time, you have to really think about it. So I won’t bother you anymore.

As she stared at the gradually closing door, she couldn’t help but grumble inwardly that this man was too overbearing, but… But for some strange reason, there was a hidden burst of joy inside her. That secret delight even made the gloom following her for days dissipate considerably.

After a simple wash, she lay on the bed and stared at the ceiling up ahead, somehow unable to sleep. What he said kept echoing in her mind.

“Tessa, the only person I want is you.”

Those words haunted her as she tossed and turned on the bed, feeling like her heart was pounding out of her chest. Finally, she couldn’t deny it any longer. She had to admit to herself that she actually liked him.

After thinking about it, she figured that it wasn’t such a strange thing to fall for him. He was such a wonderful man, so it was likely that no one could resist his charm.

Tessa still couldn’t fall asleep in the middle of the night, so she slowly opened the bedroom door. Initially, she wanted to check if Nicholas was asleep but found that the light in the living room was still on.

Inside the living room, he wasn’t sleeping. Instead, he was dressed in his pajamas and dealing with work-related matters as he sat on the couch. Under the soft glow of the light, the man’s sharp aura faded considerably, making him look harmless. However, he was still incomparably beautiful.

.

Perhaps her gaze was too intense as he suddenly raised his head. When their eyes met, she was startled and embarrassed, feeling as though she was a peeping tom caught red-handed. In an instant, a wave of heat crept up her cheeks. She didn’t even need to think to know that her cheeks must be red now.

“Uh, it’s a bit hot, so I came out to take a look.” She pretended to feel hot and fanned herself:

Nicholas raised his eyebrows slightly but said nothing.

At this point, she remembered her purpose of coming out, so she went over to him. She resolutely stood in front of Nicholas and said, “I’ve decided.”

Nicholas intently listened on as Tessa continued, “I admit that I like you. But I don’t know if I can be with you. To outsiders, it may seem like wishful thinking, but… In this life, I like you.” She said everything she wanted to say all in one breath.

When Nicholas heard this, the corners of his lips raised with pleasure, his smile making him look sinful but beautiful. He pulled the nervous Tessa into his arms, and his voice was indescribably gentle. “Since you’re so uncertain, why don’t we give it a try? I will prove myself to you until all your doubts are dispelled.”

Her heart trembled slightly, and she sat in his arms in a daze. She breathed in the man’s uniquely chilly scent, the smell making her feel at ease like never before.

After hesitating for a while, she carefully reached out and wrapped her arms around the man beside her. When he noticed her small movements, he already knew her choice, which put him in an unusually good mood.

“Tessa,” he called out, letting the word linger as he gently caressed Tessa’s cheek with one hand while he slowly approached her. The two kissed under the bright white light, oblivious to everything else.

Tessa lay on the bed in the dim room, touching her lips in a daze as if his breath was still on them. She found it hard to believe that she had confirmed her relationship with him just like that.

She thought about how she left so spontaneously earlier, thinking that she would never have any contact with him again. Who would’ve thought that not only did he

come chasing after her, but he came crashing in without warning and didn’t give her another chance to escape.

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Tessa couldn’t deceive herself. She liked Nicholas. However… she didn’t know if what she was doing was right. By being together with Nicholas, she would face many difficulties and obstacles, and the main problem she had to face was from his elders.

Remus’ warning, in particular, seemed to be ringing in her ears. I will never agree to let you enter the Sawyer Family. If you insist on being with my grandson, then you will only force my hand.

She didn’t sleep all night as these thoughts occupied her. As soon as dawn broke, she got up from the bed the next day. As she looked at the heavy dark circles under her eyes in the mirror, she couldn’t cover them up even with foundation. In the end, she simply gave up and walked out of the bedroom.

Meanwhile, Nicholas was already up and about in the living room. He had asked the hotel to deliver breakfast and was currently placing the breakfast provided by the hotel on a plate.

“Morning.”

“Morning.”

He cast her a tender look, and his gaze immediately landed on the dark circles under her eyes, which made him frown slightly. “You didn’t sleep well?”

She nodded and didn’t hide anything from him. “I was thinking about a lot of things last night.”

“What were you thinking about? Are you coming back with me?” Nicholas asked.

“I won’t go back with you for the time being. I want to stay here and pursue my dream.”

Tessa shook her head and refused. She wanted to improve herself so she wouldn’t feel that she was only a mere arm candy when she stayed by Nicholas’ side. Otherwise, if she went back now, she wouldn’t be able to change anything, and she might even become a burden instead.

Additionally, now that she chose to be with him, there was no telling how Remus would deal with her when the time came. So, instead of going back to the fate of being controlled by others, she might as well stay here to pursue her goal and improve herself in the process.

Of course, there were disadvantages to such a decision: her relationship with Nicholas would turn into a long-distance one.

“Do you mind being in a long-distance relationship?” Tessa cast him an anxious glance, afraid that he would disagree.

For a moment, he was taken aback, but he figured out what Tessa thought as she made the decision to stay in Vienna. He stepped forward, pulled Tessa into his arms, and said softly, “If this is what you want, I’ll support you.”

He remembered how Tessa stood on stage that night, looking so dazzling that it was hard to take his eyes off her. He knew that she needed such a stage, needed to be seen by more people to become better.

She didn’t know what thoughts were going through his mind, but what he said just now was enough to move her. She wrapped her arms around his muscular waist and said happily, “Thank you. Thank you for being so understanding.”

He ran his fingers through her black hair with a gentle smile.

During the meal, Tessa thought of something and asked, “How long will you be staying here?”

“I won’t go back for the time being.”

“Really?” She was so happy that her eyes were curved into crescents.

Nicholas nodded as he looked at her with affection.

After the meal, she suggested they go shopping, which he didn’t refuse. Just like that, she took him on a stroll as they visited Vienna’s attractions. Honestly, she had been to these places before, but she experienced a different feeling walking around again with him. Moreover, she could talk to him about her dream.

“My biggest dream is to stand here one day and have famous musicians from all over the world listen to me play the violin.”

Entering Wiener Musikverein, she broke away from him and walked quickly to the front of the stage.

When Nicholas studied the confident girl not far away, his heart started thumping fiercely. He strode over, then held her hand before looking at her intently and affectionately. “Okay, and I’ll stay by your side as you achieve that.”

Their eves met, and Tessa almost melted into Nicholas’ gentleness. Her heart even skipped a beat. After getting lost in the moment, she held his hand, and a charming smile appeared on her face as she nodded vigorously and said, “Yes, I want you by my side.”

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At this moment, she truly felt like she was together with Nicholas. Although they had. just confirmed their relationship last night, she still felt like she was living in a dream. After all, back in their country, she always felt that there was a vast chasm between the both of them.

The two of them wandered around all morning and had lunch at noon. Afterward, the two of them wandered around Vienna’s busiest commercial street.

Tessa was attracted by a bracelet displayed behind a window when passing by a jewelry store. However, when she saw the price marked next to the bracelet, she immediately stepped away. The bracelet’s price was more than 200,000, and she wasn’t willing to spend that much money on just a mere bracelet, no matter how beautiful it was.

Nicholas, who had just returned from a phone call, saw Tessa’s stunned expression and asked, “What were you looking at?”

“I wasn’t looking at anything.” She averted her gaze from the bracelet, then said with a smile, “Let’s go over there and have a look.” While talking, she pulled on him and left.

He cast her a knowing glance, then looked at the jewelry store without saying anything.

In the evening, Tessa took Nicholas for a stroll along the Danube River. As the breeze blew, the lake’s surface rippled, painting a beautiful and romantic picture.

“Tessa.” He suddenly grabbed hold of her.

She looked over with a smile. “What’s the matter?”

In the next second, a glittering light flashed before her eyes, and she saw the bracelet she was admiring earlier swinging in front of her.

“When did you buy this?”

She was both surprised and touched, not expecting him to buy this bracelet just because she gave it a couple of glances. Moreover, he obviously wasn’t there at that time.

When he saw the sweet smile on her face, the corners of his lips curled into a

beautiful arc.

“Consider this a memento of our time together.”

As he spoke, he lifted Tessa’s right hand, resting on her lap, then put on the bracelet with a focused and gentle expression.

The bracelet glimmered around her wrist under the faint yellow street light like a shimmering circle of light, which was beautiful. However, she felt that he looked better than the bracelet.

Perhaps this was his first time putting on a bracelet for a girl, so his movements were extremely rusty, but he was earnest as if he was facing a business deal worth billions.

“Done.”

Three minutes had passed when he finally put on the bracelet for her. She shook her bracelet under the glow of the street light. It suited her well and was absolutely stunning

At this moment, she felt like she was soaking in a honeypot-sweet and loved.

On the way back, Tessa finally asked about Gregory.

“How’s Greg been doing lately?”

“After you left, he was very down.” Nicholas didn’t hide anything and truthfully told her about Gregory’s situation. Casting Tessa a sideways glance, he asked, “Do you want to talk to Gregory?”

She was caught by surprise. Naturally, she thought about it, but the guilt in her heart left her unsure of how to face Gregory. In fact, she has been having a hard time these days. She missed Gregory very much, but she kept persuading herself not to think about it and that that was the only way she could control herself.

Perhaps noting her hesitation, he held her hand and smiled. “Don’t overthink this. As long as you are willing, I’ll arrange the rest.”

Tessa didn’t hesitate anymore as she heard this and nodded in agreement. She wanted to talk to Gregory and hear him calling her ‘Miss Pretty Lady’ in his child-like voice.

Nicholas immediately took out his phone to contact his brother upon getting the answer.

Later that day, the two of them returned to the apartment. Nicholas immediately made a video call to Gregory. The call was connected within a few seconds, and Gregory’s cool little face appeared on the screen. When he saw Nicholas, his face was chilly

At this moment, Kieran’s puzzled voice sounded next to him. “Nicholas, why did you ask me to bring Gregory? You’re not even home yet.”

Nicholas ignored him and only spoke to Gregory.

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“Gregory, there’s someone who wants to meet you.”

“I don’t want to!” Gregory refused instantly. He didn’t want to see anyone except for the beautiful Miss Tessa.

Not surprised by this answer, Nicholas didn’t say much but simply turned the camera to Tessa, who was sitting next to him.

When Gregory saw Tessa suddenly appearing on the screen, he opened his eyes widened in stunned silence.

“Hello, Greg. It’s been a while since I saw you.” Tessa waved her hand as she said hello to Gregory.

However, he didn’t respond. Upon seeing this, Tessa reckoned Gregory was angry with her, making her feel distressed.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have left without saying anything. I’m sorry…”

After Gregory heard this, his eyes gradually turned red, and tears pooled in his eyes, seemingly about to fall at any time.

“Miss Tessa, why didn’t you come to see me? Do you hate me too?” He sobbed as he peered at Tessa, appearing as pitiful as an abandoned puppy.

Tessa’s heart ached, and she quickly denied while explaining, “Gregory, I don’t hate you. I didn’t visit you because I went to study abroad and didn’t know how to say goodbye to you.”

“Really?” Gregory wiped his tears away and looked suspiciously at Tessa.

“Really. So, can you forgive me, Gregory?”

“Then, if you can promise that you wouldn’t suddenly stop visiting me for no reason next time, I’ll forgive you.”

Gregory tried to maintain a serious expression on the screen, but unfortunately, it was spoiled by the tear tracks on his face, resulting in an adorable contrast.

Tessa found him so cute that she nodded repeatedly, then continued comforting him.

Meanwhile, Nicholas and Kieran remained silent during this period so as to not disturb their conversation. Undoubtedly, Kieran was curious about why his brother was with Tessa. However, no matter how hard he tried to signal his brother, it was like signaling a blind man-all in vain.

Tessa didn’t notice Kieran’s small movements as she was focused on coaxing Gregory. Gradually, Gregory’s mood stabilized, and a happy smile appeared on his face.

“Miss Tessa, when are you coming back? I miss you very much.”

“I miss you very much too, Gregory, but I can’t go back for now.”

“Why not?”

Gregory was disappointed, and the sparkle in his eyes dimmed.

She felt her heart ache upon seeing this, so she quickly comforted him. “Gregory, although I won’t be there with you physically, we can video call each other every day.”

But Gregory was still unhappy. He didn’t want to see Tessa through the screen. He wanted to see her in person, then hug her while she pampered him.

She noticed that he was upset, so she continued to coax him. It took a lot of effort for her to make him smile again. Although he was happy, he couldn’t help but complain when he saw that his father and Tessa were together.

“Bad Daddy. You secretly went to find Miss Tessa and didn’t take you with me. I don’t like you anymore.”

“But Gregory, didn’t you already dislike your daddy before this?” The expression on Kieran’s face was one of mischief as he added fuel to the fire.

Tessa covered her mouth and giggled.

Nicholas ignored his brother and looked at Tessa, his eyes filled with affection. He immediately made a promise to Gregory. “Next time I come over, I’ll definitely bring you with me.”

Gregory pouted and agreed but said nothing else. Afterward, he talked non-stop to Tessa, asking her about anything and everything while she patiently answered each and every question.

“It’s 10.30PM. Gregory, you should get some rest.” Nicholas solemnly took the phone back from Tessa’s hand. He would never admit that he felt that Gregory was

occupying Tessa for too long, making him a little jealous.

“Daddy, can you let me talk to Miss Tessa for a while more?”

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Gregory threw a slight tantrum as he was reluctant to part with Tessa.

Nicholas refused without giving it a second thought, “No.”

“Bad Daddy!”

Gregory decided to do it the hard way as he sensed being cute and adorable didn’t work. Unfortunately, Nicholas fell for neither trick, which left him extremely frustrated

Tessa felt highly amused while watching the father and son engage in a battle of wits. She then coaxed Gregory, “Be good, Gregory. When your daddy returns, he’ll come home bearing gifts from me to you.”

Gregory reluctantly hung up the phone as he heard the wonderful news.

Meanwhile, Tessa was feeling buoyant. “I thought Gregory would never forgive me again this time.” Finally, she sat on the sofa and shared her feelings with Nicholas.

Nicholas pulled her into his lap and said with a smile, “How could he not forgive

you?”

Besides their blood relation, they were pretty much inseparable. Gregory had liked her the first time he saw her… This was all destined a long time ago.

However, she was unaware of Nicholas’ thoughts. She sighed, then said with some sorrow, “I don’t know when I will be able to see him again.”

He couldn’t bear to see her looking sad, so he took her hand and assured her, “Believe me. The day will come soon.”

She stared at him for a few seconds, then smiled and nodded. The two snuggled and sat quietly in the living room for a while. The white light cast a shadow on the two figures on the wall–one tall, one short. It was a cozy image, and even the air was full of sweetness.

Later, she asked, “When are you planning to leave?”

He lowered his head and laid a kiss on her brows before answering in a low voice, “I’m going back tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow..” She didn’t expect it to be so soon, and she was a little reluctant to let him go.

When Nicholas noticed this, the corners of his lips curled up, then his demeanor changed, and he said, “Since we have time now, let’s talk.”

“Talk about what?” She tilted her head up at him, a puzzled look on her face.

“Let’s talk about how you should keep your distance from other men after I return home, and you’re not allowed to go out drinking with men alone. You’re also not allowed to…”

Nicholas fixed his gaze on Tessa and made a lot of demands.

Tessa was amused. “How could I possibly have so many men approaching me?”

He was silent as he stared straight at her.

“Okay, okay. I agree to all of your demands, you silly man,” she replied. She couldn’t withstand the look he was giving her, so she raised her hands in surrender.

The next morning, Nicholas was about to rush to the airport after having breakfast. Tessa reluctantly helped Nicholas pack his clothes in the suitcase. “I’ve packed all the clothes for you. Take a look and see if anything’s missing.”

When he heard her disappointed voice, he walked over. “There is indeed one thing I forgot to bring with me.”

“What is it?”

“This—”

As he spoke, he pulled a puzzled Tessa into his arms, then cupped the back of her head with one hand while lowering his head and kissing her on the lips. This time, this kiss was completely different from the previous ones. It contained intense passion, and it swept through every inch of her being.

For a moment, she was dazed. Then, she instantly wrapped both arms around him. It wasn’t until they were about to run out of oxygen that he let go of her, his breathing

shallow,

At this moment, Tessa’s lips were almost swollen from the kiss. She leaned weakly

against Nicholas, her cheeks flushed and her vision blurry, making him want to continue. However, he used a lot of effort to restrain the urge that was gradually waking up in his body. He found that the self-control he prided himself on having was nothing in front of her.

The room was silent, and the sorrow of parting lingered in the air. Unfortunately, no matter how reluctant the two of them were, it was almost time for him to board the plane.

Before he rushed to the airport with his luggage, he gave her a final reminder. “Take care of yourself, and call me if you encounter any problems.”

Always Been Yours Chapter 319

Tessa nodded and fondly watched as Nicholas got his ticket checked before entering the waiting lounge. She didn’t leave the airport until she heard his plane take off.

When she got home, her heart felt empty as she looked around the empty room. She sat quietly on the sofa, then cheered herself up. “This short separation is for a better tomorrow. So there’s nothing to be upset about.”

Perhaps her comforting had an effect, as her downcast mood improved significantly.

Just as she was about to pack up and find a job, the phone on the coffee table rang. It was a phone call from Scott.

“Miss Reinhart, are you free now?”

“What’s the matter?”

“Miss Hathaway wants to see you again.”

Tessa was a little surprised but agreed. After hanging up the phone, she dared not delay any longer as she packed up and went out.

The place they agreed to meet was at a coffee shop. When she arrived, Tessa found that Hathaway was the only one sitting on the sofa by the window. She took a deep breath, then walked over and greeted with a smile, “Miss Hathaway.”

“You’re here. Have a seat.” Hathaway signaled with her eyes for Tessa to sit opposite of her.

After Tessa sat down, a waiter immediately came over to take her order. Before she could order coffee, Hathaway’s voice sounded. “Sorry, but we’ll be leaving soon.”

Tessa looked over, puzzled.

Hathaway explained, “I’d like to show you my orchestra. What do you think?”

Naturally, Tessa didn’t refuse, and at the same time, there was faint anticipation in her heart. Hathaway Philharmonic, named after her, was formed after she announced her retirement.

Although Hathaway had only established the orchestra for a little more than a decade, it already had an international presence and an excellent reputation in the

industry. The orchestra was located on Vienna’s busiest commercial street.

Entering the hall, Tessa saw that the walls on the left and right sides were covered with photos. These photos were all scenes of the orchestra’s performances that bought them fame, and there were also photos of celebrities.

“Miss Hathaway.”

During this time, people would pass by the two and greet Hathaway respectfully while also casting curious and inquisitive glances at Tessa.

Whenever this happened, Tessa simply nodded politely in response. Afterward, she followed closely behind Hathaway and inwardly let out sighs of amazement as she explored the place.

Although Hathaway Philharmonic had only been established for around ten years, it was close to established international orchestras in terms of management and background

After wandering around, Hathaway brought Tessa to her office. After the assistant delivered the coffee, he also shut the door as he left, giving them a private space to talk.

“What are your thoughts on my orchestra after taking a quick tour?” Hathaway asked after taking a sip of coffee.

Tessa thought for a while before answering as she sat on the sofa, “Although Hathaway Philharmonic has only been established for a little more than a decade, it has developed into a well-known orchestra that is also very influential in the industry. Personally, I’m very eager to have a chance to be in such an orchestra.”

Hathaway nodded as if satisfied with Tessa’s answer. She set down her coffee and suddenly sighed. “Only those who have participated know how much effort it takes to establish such a symphony orchestra.”

Tessa didn’t know how to respond, so she remained silent and gave her a light smile. Hathaway was unbothered as she asked, “Do you know why I brought you here today?”

“I don’t.” Tessa hesitantly shook her head.

“I brought you here today mainly because I want to invite you into the orchestra as my close disciple and be a backup violinist of the orchestra.”

After saying that, Hathaway paused. “I think you should be clear about the situation of being a backup. There’s not much chance of going on stage. So if you care about something like that, just treat what I said today as nothing.”

After Tessa heard Hathaway’s offer, she was stunned into surprised silence. Initially, she thought she had no chance to be a disciple, but she didn’t expect such a fantastic turn of events. She quickly replied, “Miss Hathaway, I don’t mind.”

Although she would only be a backup violinist, she was Hathaway’s close disciple, which was an opportunity that many people could only dream of.

Always Been Yours Chapter 320

Seeing Tessa agreeing to her request without argument, Hathaway nodded in satisfaction, then briefed her on what was expected of her.

“I made you a backup violinist for several reasons. One of them is that you still have problems with your playing now, and I hope you’ll be perfect when you perform on stage.”

Tessa nodded in agreement. “I know that I still have many shortcomings. But, I’ll settle down, learn slowly, and improve myself.”

Hathaway admired Tessa even more as she heard this.

“You’re talented and willing to improve yourself. I believe that in time, you’ll definitely be the second Scott.”

Tessa was delighted to hear Hathaway giving her such high praise. The two of them chatted for a while, then Hathaway brought Tessa to the orchestra members’ practice room.

“Everyone, stop for a moment. I have an announcement to make.”

Hathaway clapped her hands and stopped the orchestra members who were rehearsing. With the orchestra members as witnesses, she officially accepted Tessa as a student, then seriously introduced Tessa to the other members.

“This is my newly accepted protégé. She will be a backup violinist for the orchestra in the future.”

“Hello everyone, my name is Tessa Reinhart. It’s nice to meet all of you.”

After Hathaway’s introduction, Tessa humbly greeted the members. At the same time, she began to refer to Hathaway as a teacher.

That afternoon, Tessa stayed with the orchestra and learned from Hathaway. Although Hathaway didn’t have time to give her private lessons, her guidance was always helpful to Tessa.

Later that day, she left the orchestra and received a call from Scott.

“How did the meeting with Miss Hathaway go?”

“I’ve become her student! I’m her protége!”

Tessa couldn’t hide her excitement and shared her joy with Scott. “Mr. Brooks, you must let me treat you to dinner tonight. I have to properly thank you.”

Scott didn’t refuse and hung up the phone after they decided on a restaurant.

In a high-end restaurant, Tessa and Scott sat opposite each other.

“Mr. Brooks, allow me to give you a toast. If you hadn’t introduced me to her, I never would’ve had the chance to become a student of such a good teacher.”

When Scott saw the bright smile on the girl’s face, the corners of his lips curled up, and he said modestly, “You obtained all of this with your own abilities. It has nothing to do with me.”

“No, no, no. My capability is one thing, but if it weren’t for you introducing me to perform in the concert, Miss Hathaway wouldn’t have discovered me. Therefore, you are my benefactor. As such, you must accept this toast from me, from one violinist to another.”

She insisted on it, so he couldn’t refuse. Afterward, the two of them continued to chat about music while eating, maintaining a harmonious atmosphere.

When they were done with their meal, Scott, being the gentleman that he was, sent Tessa back to the residence. After saying goodbye, she turned and went upstairs.

As soon as she entered the door, she received a video call from her brother, and a bright smile immediately appeared on her face. “Timothy, I’ve successfully been accepted as a disciple, and I even got into an orchestra!”

“Congratulations, Tessa. You’re finally working with a good teacher.”

As Timothy listened to his sister talking about what happened earlier that day, a happy smile appeared on his face as well. He felt that his sister being able to do what she loved and being valued was even more delightful than his company getting a project.

Afterward, Tessa told him a lot about Hathaway Philharmonic and Hathaway’s history. Timothy listened quietly, not feeling bored at all.

When she got to the end, Tessa suddenly remembered one thing. “Timothy, I met Nicholas here two days ago.”

*President Sawyer?”

For a moment, Timothy was stunned. Then, when Tessa stopped talking, he was at a momentary loss for words. To his surprise, Tessa unexpectedly told him that…