Ch. 156..160: Charmed by the Billionaire CEO Chapter 156-160

Chapter 156: Keep your eyes off my lady

Martha was a middle age lady in her forties. She had been in the fashion industry for more than twenty years. She had not only won the best designer awards but also emerged as one of the best designers in the world.

She smiled making her way towards the couple, stopping in front of them.

"I thought you were fooling me when you said you are bringing your wife" Martha squinted her eyes looking at Tristan who just scratched the back of his neck before averting his gaze at Ashley.

Martha then left the man and looked at Ashley, who stood there without uttering a word. When Tristan told her about Ashley she didn’t believe it at first.

She had been designing suits for Tristan for a while now, knew how the man’s temper. He never allowed any of her lady staff to touch him and would ask her to bring a male staff along.

There had been a rumour about Tristan being gay, as the man was never seen with any woman. Being a lowkey businessman, he preferred a private life and the minimal occasion he would attend was along with his assistant.

Ashley on the other hand kept admiring the lady. She always wanted to walk on the ramp wearing her outstanding collection. It was her way of art that made Ashley more inclined to modelling.

"You look more gorgeous than those pictures on the cover page" Martha couldn’t help but praise the beauty in front of her. She had seen Ashley walk on the ramp but never once got the chance to meet her in person.

"Are you trying to flirt with my wife Martha" Tristan who heard her praising Ashley couldn’t stop himself from being jealous.

"Oh common you, young man. You know I am not into girls" Martha winked making Ashley chuckle.

"Whatever... but keep your eyes off my lady" he ignored her words.

Martha just sighed knowing the man very well. Ignoring his warning she then turned to face Ashley and whispered," Don’t mind but I like to tease him" her words made Ashley smile and she watched Tristan shot a glare at her.

Tristan was about to say a way when Martha cut in," Okay now... let’s go to the trail room" waving her hands at Tristan she dragged Ashley along with her.

Tristan could only roll his eyes at Martha. She was his mother’s age but her actions never failed to amaze him.

Scoffing he unbutton his suit and sat on the couch. Since Karl was in charge of today’s event he had nothing to look after. Leisurely crossing his one leg on the other Tristan started going to the catalogue placed on the glass table in front of him.

He went on picking every dress that caught his attention purchasing them without a second thought.

The door of the trail room opened and Martha walked out, "Hold your breath, Tristan. You are about to faint" she warned before she turned to show the lady that walked out of the door.

Tristan hold on to his breath the second Ashley walked out wearing an off-shoulder short sleeves black lace dress. The way the dress fitted perfectly on her body showing off her curves made him gulp.

"I knew it" Martha’s voice broke his trance and he cleared his throat, scratching his forehead.

"Ahem... You look beautiful" he said with his eyes still fixed on the alluring beauty.

Ashley carried the dress with perfect grace, which was why Martha picked that piece for her.

She just nodded her head, feeling giddy with Tristan’s reaction. She was a confident lady, but she always felt shy in front of him.

Giving a nod, Tristan finalized the dress before Ashley walked to get change. Once she was done her eyes popped out finding multiple bags that the staff carried along with them.

"Don’t tell me you purchased all these?" Ashley’s jaw dropped when she heard him nod. She thought it was just one dress but no, Tristan went on buying half of the dress from the boutique just for her.

"Come let’s go" kissing the back of her hand Tristan walked out taking Ashley with him from the boutique.

Ashley thought that was it but when he took her to the mall, she smell some trouble. This billionaire husband of hers was spending money recklessly. He went on purchasing limited edition accessories, shoes and even perfumes.

She literally had to drag him out of the stores because by then she was sure this man was trying to buy the entire mall for her.

Even the guards couldn’t stop themselves from smiling at him.

*****

Inside the car

"Ash, why did you drag me out? We were yet to shop more" Tristan was still not satisfied.

’Was this man insane or did he lose his brain somewhere before coming to pick her’ Ashley just glared at him before instructing the driver to take them home.

They soon reach home where everyone inside the house was shocked to see the guards bring the bags towards Tristan’s bedroom.

"Is there an occasion today?" Gavin asked one of the guards as he stepped out of his room to head outside.

When the guard didn’t say anything he walked ahead when he stumbled with Ashley." Why do you look annoyed sister-in-law" he asked making her stop in the tracks.

"Your brother has gone crazy," she said turning back as she watched Tristan sprint towards her.

It didn’t take Gavin any long to realize what was happening. He could only sigh," You have to get used to this sister-in-law. I doubt brother is ever going to change" patting her shoulder he walked away waving bye to Tristan and descending downstairs.

Once the bags were placed inside the room Tristan asked the guards to leave and stepped inside following Ashley.

Walking to her he slowly wrapped his arms around her and whispered next to her ear," You can’t stop me from pampering you Ash" his words made her sigh.

"But this is too much Tristan. I don’t even have that much space in my wardrobe for them" turning her head she looked at him.

"We have plenty of rooms, just pick one and I will ask someone to renovate it," he said casually.

Ashley could only sigh. This man had a solution for everything. She was about to ask the maid to arrange them when suddenly she felt his lips on her neck.

Air sucked into her lungs when he started nibbling her skin and she slowly closed her eyes feeling his touch.

"I so wanted to kiss you badly back there but-" swiftly turning her he looked straight into her eyes," Now that I finally have you alone for myself I won’t hold back" leaning closer until his lips touch her Tristan heard her gasp.

More than Tristan, Ashley was the one who was eager to kiss. His lips curled up looking at her eagerness and he slammed his lips taking her for a passionate kiss.

If he hadn’t stopped back in the boutique, Tristan would’ve torn her exclusive dress, which again became a problem.

Snaking her arms around Tristan’s neck Ashley deepened the kiss. Once the couple was done devouring each other cavern they pulled back gasping for air.

"Lets continue this after the party" resting their forehead Tristan muttered.

Tristan didn’t want to worn her out. He knew he had no control when it came to making love with her, so he stopped before they lose themselves into the heated moment.

****

" Sigh.... I am so tired" Gwen slummed on the couch after finishing organising the party.

She couldn’t believe Karl had been multi tasking everything all by himself.

So couldn’t help but feel proud of him.

"How are you so normal even after working so much? " She asked.

Karl had just ended the call instructing everything to the event management team, turned listening Gwen’s words.

He had been doing this for years now,and was kinda used to it.

"Its an habit that can’t be changed and moreover I feel energize when I do my work properly" He joined sitting next to her.

Karl wouldn’t have finsihed arranging the party if Gwen did share the work. So it was partly her help that made him relax.

"And also thanks to you for helping me" He kissed her cheeks and pulled back.

Gwen circle her arms around his hand, resting her head on his shoulder before closing her eyes.

"Let me nap for five minutes" She muttered and drifted of to sleep.

Karl watched her sleeping calmly on his shoulder, followed her words before he placed a kiss on her head.

Gwen wasn’t that active and would get easily tired. It was the first thing Karl noted about her. He was surprised on how quickly she fell asleep.

’Will she fall asleep just like this when we ever take a step ahead in our relationship’ he couldn’t help bit think.

They never went ahead kissing, but now Karl was thinking about the future ahead.

 

Chapter 157: Golden mask man

Evening

Gwen had picked a masquerade theme for the success party. She wanted the event to be enjoyable as it was a massive triumph for both Fords and the Knights.

The invitees were sent on short notice to every affiliate who shared a good relationship with Melanin. Not only were business people from all over the world welcomed, but renowned reporters from different mass media joined the event to click and share the news every minute.

Soon the hall began to fill with elites and business people who came along with their partners to congratulate the victors.

Since the news about Tristan Knight being in relation with supermodel Ashley Brown broke out, people have been eager to see the couple together, and this event turned out to be their first public appearance as partners.

Soon the black Mercedes Benz stopped at the entrance of the event hall. Looking at the crowd waiting for the couple to step out, Tristan looked at Ashley as he held her hand gently.

"Are you ready, my dear wife?"

Tristan had already mentioned to her the purpose for inviting the media. He not only wanted to make a public appearance but also wanted to flaunt the beauty next to him.

The day Tristan married her, he always wished to walk hand in hand, showing off their relationship to everyone and today, he finally got the chance to do so. She was his, and he wanted the entire world to know.

It also warned those who would try to mess with her. Now that he was by her side, he wouldn’t let anyone target her for no reason, or else the person would have to deal with him.

Ashley smiled, nodding, and the couple stepped out of the car. The second they were out, flashlights fell over them, capturing the special moment as the couple walked inside the hall heavily guarded by Tristan’s men.

Even with the mask on, their appearance stood out when they stepped inside the vast hall. Everyone’s eyes fell on the elegant couple as they walked deeper into the crowd.

Ashley could hear the whispers as they walked, greeting everyone. She always felt left out as she could never enjoy such a gathering, but with Tristan, she could finally be at ease.

Her grip on him tightened as they finally stopped." Are you okay?" she heard Tristan ask.

Ashley never thought she would be grasping so much attention. It may be that Tristan’s powerful aura made everyone’s attention fall on her too.

"Can’t they look elsewhere" she whispered, making him chuckle.

"I thought you would be used to this" since Ashley was a model, Tristan thought she was familiar with such a mass crowd, but her words said something else.

"I would’ve gladly accepted their attention if it was solely on me, but - " she paused, making him look at the eyes that were craving him and throwing daggers at her.

Tristan then understood what she meant. Averting his eyes on her, he brought her hand close to his lips and kissed her.

"Then what should I think of those lustful eyes squinting my wife? Should I go and pluck them out of their socket?" though his words were calm, she didn’t fail to notice the sparkle of threat in them.

Bring the hand she held close to her lips, she kissed it, and her lips curled up," You think I care when I have such a charming man next to me" she told the truth.

With Tristan next to her, she didn’t care who lusted over her because she knew no one apart from Tristan would make her feel those emotions that would shake her entire soul.

He had the power to control her mind and body just with his words, and she would never be able to get swayed by anyone else. Her heart and soul belonged to him, solely him.

The party began, and everyone got busy. Tristan, too introduced Ashley to some of his business partners. Ashley was also getting along with the talks as she began to feel comfortable around them.

"They look so perfect together," Gwen, who wasn’t looking less than a diva wearing an off-shoulder maroon long-length gown, said dreamily, looking at the couple who captured everyone’s attention.

On the other hand, Karl kept a poker face as he tried to get rid of those eyes that fell on Gwen. He thought it would be Ashley and Tristan who would gather everyone’s attention, but no, some wanted to snatch his girl away from him.

"I just want to punch them" Karl’s words snapped Gwen out of her dreamland, and she turned to see Karl sulking, standing next to her.

Gwen frowned as she looked in the direction Karl was staring. Gwen burst into laughter, making the man sulk even more.

"That’s not funny," he said, ignoring her smile.

"If looks could kill, then that man would be died by now" Gwen looked at the poor guy who was scared by Karl’s gloominess just because he was checking her out.

This man was a walking, jealous machine. If he had the power to turn anyone blind, he would have blinded everyone who laid their eyes on her.

Gwen pinched his cheeks lovingly," Why are you so cute, Karl? It makes me want to kiss you" she couldn’t control her tongue as she said what she felt.

Lifting his brow Karl turned to face Gwen," Then shouldn’t you fulfil your wish to kiss me? Let everyone know that you are taken, and the person you belong to is me" his sudden confession made her cough.

How can this man become so bold all of a sudden? Was it because he was jealous, or he tended to blow her mind with sensual words?

Karl smirked, watching her turn silent. So he finally found a way to make Gwen silent.

Looking at the crowd, he turned his attention back on Gwen," Would you like to dance with me" he asked.

Gwen gasped when she felt him hold her hand, bringing it closer to his lips as he kissed it. His eyes bore into her, making her go crazy.

Without wasting a second, she nodded her head, and they walked passing through the crowd making their way to the centre of the hall.

Soon everyone joined the couple along with their respective partners. Since everyone wore a mask hiding their face, it was hard for anyone to recognise them.

"Would you like to dance with me?" Tristan asked, forwarding his hand for Ashley to hold. Without hesitating, she grabbed his hand, and the couple joined the others on the dance floor.

Moving along with the musical music, Tristan and Ashley began dancing. Tristan wrapped his arm around Ashley’s slender waist while she rested her palm on his heart and the other hand snaked around his neck as they slowly began to move, feeling the music’s beat.

"You look so beautiful that I want to kiss you endlessly" Tristan’s eyes never darted from her face. She looked like a goddess who was sent only for him.

With her in his arms, he felt like he would conquer anything.

Ashley smiled, blushing at his suggestive remark. If they weren’t in public, she would have asked him to take her as he wished, but he had to wait until they reached home.

Leaning closer to her ear, he whispers," We still have to finish our unfinished business" he makes her remember the thing they left halfway because they didn’t want to be late.

"I am looking forward to it, Mr Knight" Ashley, too, wanted to get out of there and reach home.

Pulling her closer Tristan danced and kept moving. Everyone watched the couple move gracefully along the music. It was hard for them not to notice how deep in love they both looked.

Tristan and Ashley were enjoying each other’s company when Tristan’s phone suddenly vibrated. Their trance broke as it kept buzzing continuously.

"I think you should attend the call," Ashley said, watching Tristan grunt in frustration.

"I will be quick," he said, taking the phone out from his pocket and walking away from the dance floor.

Ashley watched him rush out and was about to leave when someone blocked her way.

"I don’t think your partner just left", a man wearing a vintage golden mask appeared in front of her.

His heavy voice made her lift her head to look at him. The tall man with emerald eyes stood in front of her with a gentle smile pestering on his face.

Ashley tried to recall if Tristan had somehow introduced them, but she couldn’t remember meeting him. ’Maybe I forgot’, she thought, looking at the man.

"Yes, he went to attend to an emergency call," she answered politely and was about to leave when he stopped her.

"Would you don’t mind, can I dance with you until you man returns" his words made her halt her step, and she turned to face him.

Though his lips never stopped smiling at her. There was something strange about this man who told Ashley to stay away.

She didn’t want to sound rude, as her behaviour would somehow affect Tristan’s reputation. But this man gave her creepy vibes. The way his eyes held animosity that didn’t match the smile made her want to retreat, but then she looked at the eyes that fell on her.

Chapter 158: Why does he looks similar

Ashley stood there looking at the man, uncertain whether she should accept his hand or not.

She knew every eye was currently focusing on her, and her one wrong move can a problem for Tristan. It was his day, and she didn’t want to wrong anyone.

Though she felt a little discomfort with the way this golden mask man bore his eyes at her, she still maintained her composure.

Putting on a smile, she accepted his hand. Just one dance and then she would leave; with this thought, she walked back onto the dance floor with this unknown man.

As they continued to dance, Ashley could feel his gaze on her. At first, she wanted to ignore him, but when she still felt him looking at her, she couldn’t stop but stare back at him in anger.

The moment their eyes met, she saw his lips curled up into a smile, and she heard him say," Don’t worry, I won’t bite."

Ashley arched her brow, amused by his words. He just saw through her actions. His gaze felt too intimidating, which made her feel uneasy.

"Then better look elsewhere. Your look like a creep" without holding back, Ashley shot her words straight into his face.

"Haha. You are feisty. I kinda like it," he said, making her frown.

Ashley felt it would be limited to just one dance, but when he started purposely provoking her with his actions, she regretted her decision.

"Who is that man sister-in-law dancing with? It doesn’t seem like a brother" Gwen and Karl, who were also dancing along with the others, averted their gaze only to find Ashley dancing with some stranger.

Karl was completely immersed in the moment, finally turning his head to look where Gwen was gazing. He saw Ashley, but when his eyes caught the sight of the man she was dancing with, he frowned.

’Why does he look similar’ he thought, squinting his eyes, trying to remember when his eyes caught something that made him freeze.

"No way...." he mumbled, catching Gwen’s attention.

Dropping his hands from Gwen’s waist Karl was about to rush in Ashley’s direction when the light’s suddenly turned off.

"Karl, please don’t go..." Gwen stopped him hugging him tightly, and it was only after a minute when the lights turned on, and his eyes found Ashley standing in the same spot, but the man with whom she danced was no longer next to her.

Ashley was surprised to find herself standing alone on the dance floor. Her eyes roamed to see the strange man, but he wasn’t present.

"Damn..." he cursed under his breath when he could find the man anywhere in the crowd.

Ashley, on the other hand, was standing alone. The moment the lights went off, she felt the arms around her waist tighten, and before she would object, she felt his breath next to her ear as he spoke something, and before she could say a word, the lights turned on.

"Huh!... Where did he go?" she muttered, looking around the pool of people. The man was no longer with her; she stood all alone by herself. Annoyed by his absurd behavior, she turned to leave, only to stumble upon someone.

"Hey, careful" the familiar voice caught her off guard, and she looked up, meeting the blue eyes that gave her sanity.

Tristan held her, stopping her from tripping. His eyes observed her unpleasant behavior, and he asked, cupping her face," Why are you still here?"

Ashley found her voice missing as she looked deeper into the worries in his voice.

"I-I was..." she paused for a second contemplating whether to tell Tristan the truth, but then she recalled the golden mask man’s words,’ It was nice meeting you, Mrs. Knight. I hope to see you again.’

No one apart from their close ones knew about their marriage. They only declared being in a relationship but didn’t disclose being married to each other publicly, then... how did that man know she was Tristan’s wife.

’It’s not the right time to talk about it she thought and shook her head, brushing her anxiousness and putting on a smile before she looked back at Tristan, "You said you would be back in no time then... what took you so long."

Heaving a sigh, Tristan brushed her cheeks, saying," It was a blank call. Someone pranked me."

Tristan was annoyed by the caller who kept intruding on his precious time with Ashley, and when he finally received the call, the person didn’t speak a word which was hell annoying.

Ashley fell at a loss for words. Why would someone prank Tristan when it was so apparent with the way the caller kept calling him?

"Never mind," he tried to change the topic," Let’s enjoy the party," he said before taking her away from the dance floor.

Karl felt at ease when he saw Tristan returning to Ashley’s side. He had to inform him about it. With this thought, even he took Gwen away from there.

****

Noah returned to his apartment after meeting his mother, who summoned him to have a serious conversation. He already knew what that serious talk was, so he headed to the mansion without further due.

Opening the door, he stepped in when the lights suddenly turned on, and his eyes caught the sight of Alice standing by the pillar wearing a sexy dress.

Noah was caught off guard. He wasn’t expecting Alice to seduce him by wearing this sexy dress which was transparent enough to make him see her slender legs through it.

"A-Alice... what are you doing," he asked, finally able to catch his voice.

’Damn, this woman was making me lose my mind’ Noah felt his crotch tighten at the sight of her exposed skin. He gulped down hard when she made her way toward him.

"Why? You don’t like watching me this way," she said, stopping in front of him.

Alice traced her finger from the side of his face bringing it closer to his lips as she slowly rubbed them.

"Or you like me watching naked" her voice deepened when she brought her face closer to him, just an inch away from his lips.

"Tell me, Noah. How do you like me... with clothes or without them" Alice found Noah stiffening the second she brushed her lips on his, teasing him.

Noah’s breath hitched, feeling the touch on her lips. He didn’t know why she was suddenly trying to seduce him, but he loved this way of getting attention from her.

She was slowly opening up, breaking free from her haunted past, and he liked this new version of her.

"What will I get if I say I like you naked underneath me? Will you let me fuck you" Noah found his mind clear, and he was back to play along with her? He was the seduction god and knew an enormous way that led to a woman’s heart.

Wrapping his arms around his neck, Alice whispered," Then fuck me, Noah. Take me as you wish."

The moment those words left her mouth Noah lifted her cupping her round butt as she slowly wrapped her legs around his torso and made his way to his bedroom.

Throwing her on the bed, Noah undressed himself tossing his clothes around the room and pounced on her capturing her lips.

Alice could feel the wildness in his action, but she didn’t care as she asked for it.

Noah tore her dress into two, leaving her naked under his huge body as he sucked her lips, slowly invading her mouth with his tongue deep inside her cavern.

"Ah... Noah," Alice moaned after he let go of her mouth and slowly started kissing her jawline.

"You asked for it, Alice. Now I won’t stop until I make love to you" Noah had lost his rationality as he was consumed by the beauty in front of him.

Alice was such a beautiful lady; he wanted to cherish and fulfill her every wish without second thoughts.

While he was busy sucking her neck, his hand moved down to her chest, slowly kneading her mounds, pinching and tucking her erect nipple.

Alice had gotten used to Noah’s wild side because she knew the man liked it rough and raw. She had never felt so vulnerable in front of him, but she was glad that Noah was her first.

His hands then moved down the south, finding her sweetest spot as he brushed his fingers over her petals, making her moan.

"You drive me crazy, Alice," she heard him say in between the kiss, and he pulled away, looking deep into her eyes.

Ashley could see the endless love pouring from his eyes. The way he made her fall weak with his unique way of love and care made her fall deeper for him.

As she watched him, his fingers dived deep into her core making her hiss in pain. Though it stung for a second, once the pain subsided, she felt immense pleasure as he kept thrusting deeper.

His fingers were doing wonder, making her feel pure bliss. It didn’t take her long when she came out, spilling her juice from her pot.

Noah pulled away and positioned himself between her legs before slamming hard into her. His hips kept moving rashly as he thrust harder into her and only stopped once they both reached their climax.

"Ah..."

Noah fell on top of her as they both tried to catch their breath. Alice was the first one to steady when she looked down at the man and asked," Why did your father call you Noah."

Chapter 159: Don’t hate me

A minute passed, and she didn’t hear back from him. Lightly pushing him by his shoulder, Alice found Noah fallen asleep.

"Huh... did he just sleep" she muttered, looking at the man in disbelief. He made love to her, fulfilling his desire, then slept, leaving her hanging.

Annoyed by his snore Alice pushed him away from her body and stepped down from the bed heading straight to the bathroom to clean herself.

Once she returned from taking a shower, she hopped into the bed, joining Noah, and turned to see him sleep like a baby. She flicked his forehead and said," You again managed to escape my question."

Alice dressed in a sexy night suit to make him spill the secret he was trying to keep from her. This morning when he left, she had already guessed that Noah had gone to meet his father, but after that, when he called her asking her if someone had come after he left, she found his question suspicious.

He knew she hardly had any visitors apart from Ashley, and how he sounded anxious made her think deeper.

Taking a deep breath, she looked at him and muttered," I will have to find another way to make you spill everything."

Since this plan of seduction backfired, she could only come up with another way to get back to him.

Tracing her finger from his nose to his lips, she asked," What are you hiding from me, Noah" she knew it was stupid of her to expect an answer from a sleeping man, but she wished he would just speak to her without keeping it to himself.

She had many questions in her mind, but the one that bugged her the most was whether his parents would accept her as Noah’s partner. They had just begun a relationship, and there was no way Noah would tell his parents about her, but still, the thought of his parents objecting to their relationship scared her.

She was a girl with many flaws and scars and she feared that her imperfection would somehow get in the way of their love.

Closing her eyes shut, Alice tried to brush off her insecure thoughts. She didn’t want to think deeper into something that wasn’t even around yet.

Opening her eyes, she looked at Noah before she moved closer, wrapping her arms around his waist as she buried her face into his chest, inhaling his manly odor.

"This is precious," she mumbled as she slowly fell asleep.

*****

Once the party ended, both Ashley and Tristan headed back home. Stepping inside the room, Tristan shut the door before pinning Ashley on the wall next to it.

Ashley looked so damn tempting that Tristan found it hard to keep his hands off her. But now that they were inside their room, he couldn’t wait to resume the work he had left halfway.

Capturing her lips, he kissed her passionately, letting her feel his longing and yearning for her. She was the water that quenched his thirst. He would never get enough and would always keep wanting more and more.

Pining her hand above her head, he invaded her mouth, making her gasp. Ashley felt her knees falling weak as she got consumed by the pleasure.

Lighting her leg up, she wrapped around his torso to balance herself from falling.

Tristan kept tasting every corner of her mouth, smudging the lipstick off her lips.

"Damn..." he cursed, pulling away from the kiss. His intense gaze watched her tired eyes. His eyes intensified by love and lust, and without a word, he made her turn to face the wall and unzip her gown, causing it to fall on the ground.

Her round butts came into his view. The black tongs that cover her buttocks were torn mercilessly and thrown away in seconds.

Tristan wanted to be gentle, but his lust took over his logical mind, and he quickly undressed, still pinning her by the wall, and the next second, he lunged into her from behind.

Ashley closed her eyes feeling him bang against her until she came first, followed by him.

Before she could sort her thoughts, Tristan turned her, pressed her back on the wall, lifted her, wrapping her legs around his torso, and smoothly entered again.

Ashley felt the heat rush through her body as Tristan mercilessly kept ravishing her as if he was venting his anger on her, but she was too muddle-headed to talk him back.

Once they felt reaching their limit, they again came together. Ashley wrapped her arms around Tristan as he tried to steady his breath, burying his face in the crook of her neck.

Ashley thought this was one of the wildest sex she had ever experienced as she tightened her hold on him, trying to soothe his trembling body.

Tristan was still inside her, and she could feel into getting impatient once again. She never realized Tristan would quickly turn on, even with a small kiss.

"Are you alright?" she asked, kissing his shoulder.

Tristan finally calmed down and looked at her. His heart was restless after he learned unexpected news from Karl.

He tried to keep his expression neutral because he didn’t want to let Ashley find him bothering. But he failed. He miserably failed when he turned wild just to vent his frustration.

Nodding his head, he rested his forehead on hers and sighed," Did I hurt you" he asked, knowing how badly he had lost control over his sanity.

"You can never hurt me, Tristan," she said when she sensed the hurt in his voice.

Tristan didn’t say a word and just carried her to bed. Making her sit carefully, he stood up and headed to the bathroom.

Ashley kept observing him. He turned quiet all of a sudden, and that bothered her. She was about to stand up but hissed in pain. Falling back, she looked at her hand when she saw the red mark on her wrist.

She didn’t realize until now that Tristan pinned her hand too tightly that it bruised. Her fingers traced the redness when Tristan walked out, taking a wet towel.

Ashley quickly hid her hand behind, not allowing him to see it. She knew he would blame himself for hurting her, which she didn’t want to happen.

Kneeling before her, Tristan began to clean her. All this while, he never raised his head to look at her and kept cleaning her.

Ashley stopped him just when he was about to reach her hand," I-I’ll do this," she said, making him stop.

Tristan looked at her and found her purse on her lips." You should go and get changed. I’ll clean myself", she said, snatching the towel from his hand, which made him frown.

Tristan found her behavior strange, making him stand up and look at her. He was about to open his mouth to speak when he watched her hiding her hand behind.

Without saying anything, he leaned and pulled her hand from her back and found the bruise he had given on her wrist.

"I hurt you," he said as he clenched his jaw to control his anger.

"No, it doesn’t hurt" Ashley tried to pull back her hand, but he didn’t let her go. Falling next to her like a defeated person, he looked at her with a hurtful gaze.

"Don’t lie. Look what I did. I hurt you," he kissed her wrist, bringing her hand close to his lips.

Feeling the remorse in his voice, Ashley felt heartbreak. They had made love many times, but Tristan never hurt her. And even now, it wasn’t intentional, but something about Tristan didn’t feel right.

After speaking with Karl, he suddenly went quiet when he stepped into the car. He had been talking with her, teasing and enjoying the party alone, but after that one conversation with Karl, he suddenly turned silent.

Tossing the towel away from her hand, she cupped his face making him look at her," It doesn’t hurt Tristan, and don’t people get hurt when they make love."

Ashley didn’t want him to blame for whatever happened. It was natural. She admits he was rougher than the other time, but she didn’t blame him.

"Don’t blame yourself," she tried to make him understand.

Tristan let his anger take over his rational thought and ended up hurting her, which made him feel guilty. He shouldn’t have let those thoughts cross his mind just because that person managed to get closer to her.

He let his guard down but not now when he managed to enter the country secretly.

"Ash..." his voice shook as Tristan looked into her eyes.

"Don’t hate me. I don’t know what happened to me, but I promise I won’t make the same mistake" Ashley sighed in defeat as he looked at him with love.

How can this man be so cute?

Resting their forehead together, Ashley pecked his lips," Why would I hate you? You haven’t done anything wrong, and this-" she showed him her bruise," I like it. It will make me remember the precious moment we shared"

Tristan just looked at her. She had no idea why he lost his cool. She thought he made love to her because he couldn’t control himself, but the reason was something else.

Chapter 160: I will wait

Taking back the towel from her hand, Tristan cleaned her. They lay on the bed in each other arms while Ashley rested her head on his chest.

Tristan gently traced his finger on her back, falling into deep thought. He recalled Karl’s words, ’I can never be wrong. I am sure it was him. He is finally here.’ and his grip around her tightened.

Ashley senses the change as he holds her firmly, and she raises her head, watching him engrossed in deep thought.

"You seem to be lost. Is there something you want to share with me? I can be a good listener," Ashley cupped his face catching his attention.

Tristan looked down at the woman in his arms. She had become his weakness, and the thought of anyone harming her was killing him.

He didn’t know why that man chose her out of everyone in his life. He had no clue what he was planning, but Tristan would never let him lay his dirty eyes on his precious woman.

He was lenient all these years, but if he dared to harm Ashley, he would destroy his entire clan in the blink of an eye.

Ashley frowned when Tristan didn’t say a word and just stared at her. Not able to take it anymore, she swiftly rolled over him, caging him between his arms.

Tristan was surprised as his eyes widened, looking at Ashley, who had just pinned him on the bed.

"Ash..." Tristan tried to speak but was stopped when Ashley placed her finger on his lips.

"Shh..." she could feel the hesitation as if he was struggling with his emotions. He wasn’t someone who held back his feeling when it came to her, and if he were finding it hard, then she wouldn’t force him.

Moving closer to his ear, she whispered," I don’t like to see you upset, but-" her voice sent a shiver down his spine, and he turned his head to meet her yearning eyes, "If you aren’t ready, then I would wait until you finally find it to talk to me."

Tristan pulled her closer, sealing her lips. He never thought she would come to understand him so much that he would see the same pain in her eyes that he was feeling.

He knew it would be hard for him to open up to her about his past, and he didn’t know after that she would still want to be this good with him.

He wasn’t an easy man, which had seen him all this while. He had his darker side, and only a few knew about it. He was a ruthless mafia leader who killed many assassins that tried to harm his family. He never showed mercy to anyone who wanted to get in his way.

He didn’t want his darker shades to get exposed to her because he feared she would just leave him for not being what she expected him to be all this while.

Pulling away, Tristan tucked the hair strand behind her ear and looked into her eyes," I will tell you everything when the right time comes, but-" he paused, still finding it hard to speak," but promise me you wouldn’t judge me" his last words made her frown but she quickly composed.

If he needed time, then she would give him. She would wait until he was ready to talk to her. She didn’t want to push him further and would be patient with him.

Bobbing her head, she kissed him back," I promise," she said without hesitation.

She believed Tristan. He wasn’t someone who would do anything wrong. He was a perfect son to his parents, a perfect brother to his sibling and an ideal husband for her then; how can she judge him?

The kiss soon turned passionate as the couple again broke free, making love before they finally fell asleep in each other’s arms.

****

Gwen stepped into Karl’s house after informing her mother that she would stay at his place. Grace had been very supportive towards them after they confessed their love.

"Here, wear this for now. Tomorrow we will go shopping" Karl passed on his clothes to Gwen since he didn’t have one for her.

Being a tedious person, Karl never thought he would ever have a woman in his life whom he would bring to his place.

After he finished his studies, he soon accompanied Tristan as his assistant the day he became the CEO, and after that, his life revolved around Tristan and his work.

Taking the clothes from his hand, Gwen walked into the changing room. He, too, walked into the spare room to freshen up, and once he was done, he stepped out but didn’t see Gwen.

He was about to walk toward her room when the door opened. His eyes widened at Gwen’s beauty as she stepped out wearing his clothes. Though they were lost, it still complimented her.

Gwen walked, scratching her neck as she looked at Karl. This shirt reached above her knees, exposing her legs.

Karl gulped when his eyes fell on her slender legs. This was the first time he had seen Gwen so revealing. She would always be appropriately dressed, covering herself, but tonight, she was tempting him with her looks.

"Ahem... do you want coffee," Karl asked but soon regretted it. It was time to sleep, and he asked her if she would have a coffee.

He was surely going nuts, he thought and pursed his lips.

Gwen, who found him staring at her, smiled. Walking ahead, she stood in front of him and watched him gulp.

"It’s late, Karl. I think we should sleep" her words broke him out of a trance, and he nodded like an obedient child.

Tucking her hair behind her ear, Gwen turned to leave. She entered the room and walked toward the bed, and sat down. She looked at the door, which she kept slightly opened and then laid down.

She just wanted to see if Karl would follow her but to her surprise, he didn’t.

What was she thinking? Gwen cursed, slapping her head. She turned around, facing her back towards the door and turned off the lights before she closed her eyes.

She was trying her best to fall asleep when she felt the side of her bed shrink and swiftly turn. Karl slept next to her, facing the wall above. His eyes were wide open as he stared at the ceiling.

" You aren’t used to sleeping elsewhere apart from your bed, so-" he turned around, facing her," I thought to join you in case you find it hard to sleep," he said, making her gasp.

Gwen was surprised to find Karl being aware of everything related to her. She never went out with friends since she preferred spending time at home reading books and listening to music.

She didn’t even have that many friends who she could trust. It was always her family she liked to spend time with; apart from them, now it was him.

Moved by his sweet gesture, Gwen slowly got closer to him," Have you keeping tabs on me" she asked playfully, knowing that he would always keep glancing at her whenever they crossed paths.

She remembered one incident when she saw him glaring at the boy at her university. Karl was asked to pick her up, and it was that day when that boy confessed his liking towards her.

She had seen the deadpan look on Karl’s face, as if he wanted to punch that boy. But then he would quickly cover it up before she could conclude anything.

She would never believe his gaze because they changed emotions so quickly, and she would always find it confusing.

"Did you realize it now? I have been keeping a tab on you for a long time," he confirmed her thoughts.

So she was right from the beginning. It wasn’t just her illusion, but Karl would truly get jealous whenever he would find her talking with any other guy.

This man had been liking her for a long time but only now had he found the courage to love her openly.

Moving closer to his face, she stopped once their nose touched each other" You have loved me all this while," she asked as she wanted him to confirm that it wasn’t just her who had a secret crush on him but even liked her.

Karl never showed it to her because he felt in debt to her parent’s kindness towards him. They had been generous enough to take them under their wings, which was the only reason he kept his feeling towards him.

"I liked you even before I realized my feeling for you. That small girl who used to tail behind me, asking me to play with her, managed to capture my heart even without struggle. Even after I went for my higher education with Tristan, there wasn’t a single day I didn’t think about you."

"You were always on my mind Gwen, but even after knowing my feeling toward you, I tried to push them away. I am sorry for being rude to you at times" Karl genuinely felt terrible for making Gwen cry because of his stupidity. He let his fears overshadow his emotions for her and ended up hurting her.

Gwen cupped his face making him look at her," I am glad that you felt the same for me or else I didn’t know what I would’ve done if my feeling were left unreciprocated. So thank you for overcoming your drawbacks for me and giving us a chance."

"I love you so much, Karl, that I would have gladly waited for you to look at me the way I wanted you to" her words skipped his heartbeat, showing how much she loved him and now he wouldn’t let this go, no matter what happens.

Pinning her on the bed, he kissed her. Karl wanted her to feel his love through his one kiss. He tried to assure her that he would always love her no matter what and that his passion would enhance with every passing day.