Shattered Heart

by SeaEmerald

After Stella experiences a painful breakup, a handsome yet arrogant stranger enters into her life. After being immediately struck by an awful tragedy, she's left heartbroken and crushed. In addition to that, when she's forced to say 'I do' to the very man who hates her, she gives up on life. Little did she know that this brilliant young man will inevitably change her life forever.

26. Love Me, Lust For Me

DISCLAIMER: I DON'T OWN WINX CLUB.

Hey, guys! It feels so good to publish for this story again!

I want to thank each and every person who showed me their kindness through a hard time in my life. Thank you for standing up for me against the mean person.

And also, before I move on, I want to thank some of the special people in Fanfiction: ekatykat8 and PinkiePie24. I love you both so much ^_^ Thank you so much for making me feel better about the mean review. I was in a very low point of my life at that time due to personal family losses. I was crying and mourning a lot that I wasn't able to properly eat/drink for days. That's normal for someone in mourning, I guess. And receiving such a mean review for no reason at all and for no fault of mine...just broke me all over again.

But talking to you both just made my day. You're right. I shouldn't let an exceptionally rude stranger get to me since there are a hundred others ready to show their love/support for me. If I could, I'd definitely hug you, but since I can't...I'm sending virtual hugs your way! Those people who share not only happiness but also the sad times are the truest friends. Your friends are so lucky to have you both. ^_^ If you ever need a shoulder to lean on, I'm always here for you, girls.

Thank you :*!

This chapter is dedicated to those people who have stood up for me in the hard times ^_^ It feels so good to write again since it helps me get my mind off of things. But I'm still feeling a bit low so I'm not sure about this chapter. If it downright sucked, do let me know in the reviews, please. Thank you.

Moving on...!

WAIT!

NOTE #2: For my much, much younger audience with adorable, sweet, and innocent souls, please do me and yourself a favor by turning your face away as you approach like... Ugh. You'll know. Rating M headed your way! This means...if you're not 18, SKIP THE HELL OVER IT. You still went further? You dirty-minded child! I warned you though! xD

---

(Song credits: Aphrodisiac by Eleftheria) - I love this song sooo much! I highly recommend it for closet romantics who'd enjoy a good beat xD

---

One month later...

~ Princeton University - 6:30 AM ~

"I gotta say what's on my mind. When I'm with you, I feel alright."

"You call me, baby, and we spend the night. I'm so addicted, I feel alive! Over and over, I'm falling!"

"OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH! You make me dance like a maniac!"

"OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH OH! You make me want your aphrodisiac!"

Stella's eyes fluttered open when her favorite ringtone started to buzz from beside her bed. She knew exactly who was calling right now. This particular ringtone was set for a particular tall, brown-haired alpha male.

She peeped outside the curtains and saw that the sun hasn't risen yet. It was still the first light of dawn. As much as she loved calls from Brandon, calling at a time like this and disturbing her sleep was just unacceptable. Groaning, she picked up her phone and fell back on the bed.

"The person you're calling is currently trying to go back to sleep," Stella sleepily snapped into the phone.

A deep chuckle erupted from the other end. Stella's eyes peeled open when she felt warm tingles travel up and down her body. "Didn't you tell me to give you a wake-up call at this time?" Brandon smirked from the other end. She called him late last night after having a crazy pajama party, apparently. She had so sweetly asked him to give her an early morning wake up call.

He was currently leaning against the bed's headboard of the master bedroom. It wasn't a problem for him to wake up at this time. But the same could not be said for a certain blonde.

He chuckled when Stella gasped. "BRANDON, WHY DIDN'T YOU WAKE ME UP EARLIER?! ?#$%!" she yelled into the phone.

He rolled his eyes. "Streamline cursing is not just your forte, just saying."

He laughed when he heard a bunch of distant shuffling and a stream of 'I'm so late' from the other end. He hung up with an amused smile, letting her go on with her day.

---

~ Shields' Corporations - New York - 8:30 AM ~

"I told you from time and time again that we will not be accepting your products, Mr. Williams," Brandon Shields said with narrowed eyes while crossing his arms. He rotated slightly from left to right in his revolving chair in a relaxed manner.

Blake Williams, CEO of Blake Industries, stood up sharply and pounded a fist on the table in front of him.

"Dr. Shields, I would like to point out that my influence spreads throughout the IT industry quite well," Williams hissed 'professionally'.

Brandon remained silent for a few seconds before speaking. "I'll assure you that threatening me isn't the best idea, Mr. Williams," he spoke darkly. "Speak to me like that again and I'll have no problem handing over your goods to my attorney." Brandon's eyes flashed as he slowly stood up. "Do I make myself clear?" he warned heatedly.

Williams faltered slightly as sweat slightly trickled . "Y-Yes, sir, of course. My sincerest apologies."

"I think you've overstayed your welcome," Brandon nodded his head in the direction of the exit and sat back again.

He watched the middle-aged man leave, nearly stomping his way out the door but not without leaving behind an aggravated huff. He sighed and pressed a little button underneath his desk that locked the office door using electromagnetic lock sets. "The people I encounter sometimes..." he closed his eyes briefly for a few moments before opening them again.

His frustrated moment was interrupted when his phone rang. Sighing, he picked it up. "Dr. Shields speaking," he addressed himself neutrally without even bothering to look at the caller ID.

"Wife of Dr. Shields speaking!"

His eyes widened as he jerked a little in his chair. She never usually called him in the mornings. She had classes and he was busy with work. "Stel?" he asked, wondering if he should be worried.

"Sorry. Bad time?"

"No, no. What's up?"

"Are you really that busy or you felt like bragging your doctorate over the phone earlier?" she asked cutely.

He chuckled. "I didn't check. That's all."

"...Come get meeeeeeee!" she suddenly yelled.

"Excuse me?"

"I don't know if you're aware, Dr. Shields. But, I'm having the lousiest week! My favorite dress was stolen! STOLEN! That's what I get for staying in a crowded dorm hall."

He chuckled. "That's your reason?"

"YES! It was a yellow one! You brought it for me," she said sadly. "And that thief clearly has an excellent taste as well."

"So I'm just gonna pretend that we're not having this silly conversation," he sighed dramatically.

"I rented out a few DVDs a few days ago and turns out that they don't have the right CDs in them!" she huffed angrily.

He facepalmed while she continued as if she lost something very valuable.

"Oh and this is rich. Bloom bailed on me again. I'm not sure if Sky lives in New York anymore. He's here every damn day!" she screeched while Brandon shook his head in exasperation.

"Uh huh," he said absentmindedly. His attention shifted towards an article that was just posted on the Internet. He set his phone down and put it on speaker while she continued blabbing.

"AND THEN, oh this is rich! Turns out my favorite couple of Gossip Girl just broke up! That's sooooo unfair! How can life be so cruel!" she started to sniffle.

"Uh huh," he said again, completely tuning her silly reasons out while smiling a little fondly anyway.

"And then-"

"Uh huh," he nodded.

"Then...Brandon, are you even listening?!"

"Uh huh," he smirked while turning his attention to the phone. He can imagine a deafening screen any time now-

"YOU LIARRRR!" she screamed, leaving him to reduce the speaker volume in amusement. Bulls eye!

"I can't believe your nerve!" she snapped.

"Stell...I'm working, okay? Can't we talk later about your unfortunate events?" he teased.

"Later? How about never? God knows how I might be the reason you're fired!" Stella gasped sarcastically. "'Kay, bye!" And with that, she hung up without opening a window for him to speak.

He facepalmed again. He loved her to death, but she can be such a child sometimes. He looked out the window and was greeted with a white city. Sighing, he tuned his eyes towards the calender on his computer.

Brandon's eyes widened when he saw the date. "Stella's birthday is this weekend..." he thought aloud. He slapped his forehead, wondering how the hell he forgot.

But he knew the exact reason why. She somehow made time fly by so fast, yet each moment with her was dreadfully special. Each second with her was a treasure that will never be forgotten by him.

Ironically, he prepared her birthday gift during Christmas itself. He had initially debated on giving it early since she'll leave soon, but went against the idea and dismissed it at the last minute.

Pressing the intercom, he stood up and adjusted his suit. In a few moments, a young woman entered through the door with a pen and writing pad in her hand.

"Yes, Dr. Shields?" she asked politely.

"Lisa, please free up this Friday and the rest of the weekend for me," he declared to his secretary.

"But, sir, you have an appointment with the board of directors on Saturday," the secretary informed in panic.

Brandon stopped. Stella's birthday is Saturday, he thought. Yet, he can't miss a meeting with the board. He can reschedule the others, but this...this was something the company cannot afford to mess with. Then again, he can't miss her birthday either. Today was Wednesday and her birthday is literally in three days.

"...Can you shift it to Friday, Lisa?" he asked with a sigh.

"I'm afraid not, sir. Dr. Hank will be flying late at Friday night, so he can't make it until Saturday," she informed.

"...Fine. Leave the meeting as it is. For the rest, prepone Saturday's and Sunday's appointments to Friday," he spoke.

"Yes, sir," the secretary smiled. "Oh and sir, you have a meeting in an hour with Dr. Smith."

"Yes, I'm aware. Thank you, Lisa," he smiled.

She nodded and left.

"F**king great," he cursed to himself while flopping into the chair again angrily. He looked out the window as a means of distraction. Not even a moment later, his mind swirled and swam with the thoughts of Stella. Is this what head over heels means? He never felt this deeply for anyone ever before. Not even for Skylar, he finished.

He didn't like it. For some reason, he just didn't like the thought of falling in this deep for the blonde. Not at the moment anyway. For some reason, there's a nagging pull somewhere deep within him that told him that something was going to go wrong.

He threw his head back and closed his eyes. His phone rang again and he had the urge to chuck it hard against the wall. His work always got the worst of him and today was the day where being the CEO awakens the beast inside of him.

"WHAT?!" he yelled into the phone, unaware of the caller.

He heard a small gasp on the other side. "...I just wanted to talk to you... but nevermind, I'll call later...maybe," Stella spoke before slowly hanging up.

He closed his eyes in frustration when he heard Stella's hurt voice. What is wrong with me? he muttered to himself, not sure why he was so angry. No, no, he wasn't angry. He was just...frustrated.

Whatever the reason, he had no right to show it towards anyone especially to the girl he claimed to love. He picked up the phone again and dialed her number.

...No response.

Typical.

Great. Guess I deserve it, he sighed while calling her again.

To his surprise, she actually picked up this time. "What?" she asked dully.

"I'm sorry. I didn't know it was you," he sighed, not knowing what else to say.

"It's fine. I have to head to class anyway. I'll call later," she murmured a little bitterly.

Brandon resisted the urge to break his phone in half when he heard her hang up. I'm insane, he muttered. He'd been on edge all week and it was driving him nuts. And now, Stella playing hard to get is just not helping.

Groaning, he threw his head back and covered his closed eyes with his arm.

It's official. He needs a vacation.

---

Many, many hours later...

~ Princeton University - Residential Hallway - 7:30 PM ~

Stella sat on her bed cross-legged and rocked herself impatiently while glaring stupendously at the phone sitting innocently in front of her. Call, call, call...! she thought while pouting in disappointment.

"Any reason you're boring lasers into your phone?" Tecna asked out of amusement while looking up from her laptop.

Stella huffed. "I need Brandon to appropriately apologize now!" she screamed while pulling her hair out.

"For what?" Tecna laughed.

The bathroom door soon opened to reveal Bloom who stumbled out while ruffling her hair.

"That little prick yelled at me this morning and I need a heart-felt apology," the blonde huffed. "BUT he hasn't called yet!"

Bloom laughed. "Stell, chill. You know how guys are."

"Easy for you to say," Stella rolled her eyes. "Sky practically lives in NJ now and visits you like every other day. And he treats you like a queen."

"Brandon treats you like a queen too. Jeez. Self-pity much?" Bloom rolled her eyes while Tecna watched the exchange with occasional shakes of her head at her friends' issues. Why can't they just talk it out? She can't remember a time when Timmy and her didn't go an hour without talking.

"At least Sky doesn't have a temper tantrum for no reason," Stella sighed sadly.

Bloom whistled. "Uh uh. Do you have any idea how mad Sky gets when I don't have sex with him at least thrice every visit?!" she explained while shaking her head.

"Gross! That's way too much information!" Stella covered her ears while Tecna scrunched her face in raw disgust.

"Ugh. You girls are such babies," Bloom muttered darkly while moving towards her own bed with a roll of her eyes at their immaturity. "It's a natural process, one that you need to experience."

"ANYWAYS," Stella cut her off firmly. "Let's just drop the subject," the blonde sighed while falling back on the mattress.

Shyly, she pondered over what Bloom just said though. Sky and Bloom are clearly still in love and have been ever since they met. They fight publicly but their spats never caused a dangerous rift in their relationship.

When it came to Stella, however, now that was a different story. An argument caused a year rift in her relationship. An argument that started out as nothing became a nightmare that haunted and plagued her for one solid year. In the midst of all that, she never once thought about sex with Brandon. It's not that she didn't love him. She did but...

Stella bit her lip. Were they really ready for that kind of step? She blushed a shade at the mere thought. His gaze was enough to take her breath away. His hugs...his kisses...the way he looked at her...she never felt more beautiful in her life. She never felt so special and so loved. Maybe that's why she's scared. She's so wrapped up around him that he became the center of her universe. This man drove her to absolute madness and to say that she missed him was a crazy understatement.

But what if...what if he's not ready for something like that? she thought. Ugh, who am I kidding? Men are always ready, she blushed to herself.

Or not. Uh uh. I can't say that, she shied away from her earlier conclusion. What if...what if Brandon doesn't see her that way? What if he doesn't find her attractive enough? What if...what if he just doesn't...what if he doesn't like her that way?

Stella frowned. She honestly didn't know if she could bear that kind of rejection. And truthfully speaking, in their relationship, they never once told each other that they loved each other.

I love you.

Not once had Stella said it and neither did Brandon. They've been playful around each other till now. Should I say it first? But what if Brandon doesn't love her enough to say it back?

She didn't know what she'd do in that case. Mostly likely or, actually, she's certain that she'll be devastated. She'll never be able to bear that. Instead, maybe...it's just better to keep mum and shut up about the subject.

...

---

~ New York - 8:00 PM ~

Brandon made up the stairs of the familiar driveway and knocked on the front door. He sighed while tapping his foot a little too impatiently.

He groaned audibly in raw irritation when he saw none other than his father open the door. "Is mom inside?" he asked testily.

"You could've called to find out if you didn't want to see me so badly," Lucas crossed his arms, feeling a little hurt.

"I don't need an appointment to see her," Brandon rolled his eyes and pushed past his father. "Mom!" the brunette called out.

"In the kitchen!"

Brandon tossed a stubborn glare towards his father before stomping off, not realizing how his actions just hurt his father. How many times do I have to apologize before he'll realize? Lucas sighed sadly before looking down on the floor, feeling dejected.

"Hey, mom," Brandon sighed before kneeling against the countertop.

"Here for relationship advice?" Heather winked knowingly.

The brunette huffed and rolled his eyes. "My relationship is just fine, thank you very much!"

Heather crossed her arms and tossed him a look that practically said 'Yeah right'.

He squirmed a little under his mother's gaze. "What made you say that?"

"For starters, you look like total crap. You haven't slept in days. You've been unnaturally bitter for no reason at all," Heather listed off each reason one by one on her fingers. "And most importantly, Stella told me you told her to buzz off."

He scoffed. "That brat. She's lying."

"Is she?"

"Why doesn't she realize that I'm working?! I have a job to keep!"

Heather sighed. "Did you ever realize that maybe...she just wants to talk to you? It's her birthday this weekend. Obviously, she wants you to be there with her."

"Well, she can't. I have a meeting with the board on that day. I'll call her later," he looked away stubbornly.

He howled suddenly when Heather came and punched his shoulder hard. "MOM! What was that for?!" he grimaced while rubbing his sore arm. "Why do the women in my life prefer talking with their fists?!"

"Well, being the ass you are, you totally deserve it. I don't care what the hell is happening on Saturday, but you will be there with that girl. Dad can take your place at the meeting," Heather explained sternly.

"No. He won't. I-" he stopped suddenly when Heather looked as if she's gonna slap his face.

"You know what? On second thought, that sounds fantastic," he said.

"Yeah, I thought so too."

Brandon sighed. "...But I don't think I miss her, mom. I don't miss her at all. Is that bad?"

Heather suddenly turned from the stove with her eyes widening. "...Is that why you're pushing her away?"

"What? I'm not pushing her away," the brunette shook his head.

"...You longed for her for one whole year and now that she's back...you don't seem happy. Of course, it is bad."

"I am happy that she's with me again. I just...I don't know," he sighed.

"Just talk to one another and sort it out. Don't lead her on, Brandon. I, for one, won't stand to see Stella hurt because of you. Not again," Heather warned.

"Mom! It's not like I'm breaking it off with her! Jeez, give a guy a break," he muttered while rolling his eyes.

"You better not," Heather threatened.

---

~ New York - 2:30 AM ~

The young, muscular brunette laid wide awake even though it was past his usual bed time. He normally slept a little less than one o'clock, at the latest being two. But tonight, he couldn't fall asleep.

Work was his biggest and profound distraction from life. He honestly liked diving deep into meetings (even though they bored him to death a dozen times), but that was the thing. It gave him a consistency and responsibility in life.

He had another responsibility as well. Stella. He promised her that he would never hurt her ever again. He promised her that he'll be the man she deserved. He frowned when he felt an all-too-familiar feeling of guilt. He told his mom earlier that he didn't miss her that much. How could that not be? He snapped at her earlier and didn't talk to her again. Shouldn't he have tried harder? Once upon a time, he drove to New Jersey every time he accidentally snapped. If he chose to see her at such a small issue, why wasn't he compelled to go see her now?

In fact, he wanted to be nowhere near her. He didn't trust himself about her. This Christmas, there were so many times he nearly slipped his restraint around her. She was too precious to him and to lose any kind of control...would devastate him.

He sighed a little in relief as he concluded his diagnosis.

Control. Or, rather, the lack of it.

He had absolutely no control over himself and that was his biggest reason to not go over there. It's not that he didn't want to see her. Of course he did.

He just...he would just be able to breathe a little normally when she's not around. Sighing, he picked up his phone. Now that he's finished satiating the reasons over this matter, he had a responsibility to fix it.

He looked at the time and chuckled fondly. She'd be sleeping right now. As usual, he finished to himself.

He typed the words he wanted to say all day long without sounding like a jerk. "I'm sorry for this morning, sunshine."

And...Send.

It may be such a small thing in general, but to him, it's very huge. She thought he snapped at her, but truth is, he would've snapped at anyone. Honestly, she's truly a sweetheart for putting up with me, he chided himself while ruffling his brown mane in frustration.

---

~ Princeton University - 2:20 AM ~

Toss, turn, toss, turn.

Nope, sleep was just a thousand miles away.

Toss, turn, toss, turn.

Despite trying her level best, Stella couldn't fall asleep. She practically exhausted her phone at least three times and even tried taking a walk. To her dismay, she couldn't. She just couldn't.

A ping to her phone alerted her. Probably some advertising company, Stella thought in boredom while picking it up from her nightstand. Oh well. At least, it gave her something to do.

Her eyes brightened to a thousand lumens as she nearly screamed in delight at seeing a text message from her beloved boyfriend. Or husband. Ugh. Whatever. Designation's not important.

Eagerly, she opened it. Her eyes glistened with happy pools of molten gold when she saw his heartwarming words. Laughing softly to herself, she noiselessly picked herself off the bed before exiting the room to give her roommates their much needed sleep as well as herself a little privacy.

Her fingers quivered as she proceeded to call him. The phone rang once before, to her delight again, he lifted. "Forgiven and forgotten," she chirped sweetly into the phone.

"Stel? Hey, what are you doing up at this hour?" Brandon asked with his eyes wide. To expect a call from her was nothing less than a pleasant surprise.

"I couldn't sleep," she mumbled.

"Look, I'm sorry about today, okay? I had a lot on my mind and I didn't think you'd call again," he admitted truthfully to her.

"It's okay," she smiled. "Is everything okay?"

"Mhm," he hummed while listening to her angelic voice. He smiled widely and genuinely, feeling like the first time in days, and this time, it reached his eyes.

"...Can I ask you something?" she slowly said.

"I'm listening."

"...Do you think...that if hypothetically...if I...just hypothetical! If hypothetically-" she stammered foolishly like an idiot.

"Would you just get on with it?!" Brandon chuckled out of amusement.

"...Um...I'm going to say something and I'll cut the call immediately because I'll be soooooooooooooooooooooooo embarrassed-"

"No, you won't. Now, I'm curious. Why would I do anything that's going to embarrass you?" he asked while shaking his head. "I'll admit it's very tempting though," he smirked.

"Brandon!" she whined.

"Okay, okay. Just ask already."

"...If, hypothetically, I say that I love you...would you say it back?" she suddenly said nervously before her breath caught in her throat. Her heart banged itself loudly against the walls of her still chest while her frenzy brain turned dizzy.

Silence.

That was what she was greeted with. Tears threatened to pool in her eyes as she faced the humiliation of rejection. Unable to stop herself, she cut the call before her phone fell to her sides. No, he won't. How can I hope for that anyway? Stella thought with teary eyes. He clearly doesn't love me that much. "I'm so stupid! Why can't I be satisfied with what I have?! Why should I be so selfish?!" she scolded herself harshly while unwillingly crying pitifully to herself.

As if to answer her questions, her phone started to vibrate once again. She lifted it and gasped when she saw a video call from him. She freed her eyes of any moisture before gingerly swiping it to answer.

She stared at him wordlessly and shamefully looked away. "I'm fine, okay? It was just a hypothetical question-"

"No, it wasn't," he cut her off firmly, forcing her to look him in the eye. "Was it?" he asked softly, a smile threatening to break out onto his face.

"Why did you cut the phone?" he asked her gently. "Oh and Stell...you have awful timing for questions," he chuckled. He wished so badly to be there next to her right freaking now to show her how much he indeed loved her.

She remained silent while he continued.

"Was it really a hypothetical question, sunshine?" he asked seriously this time, chucking away any remaining cockiness.

She slowly shook her head. "No, it wasn't," she truthfully admitted.

Despite not being there with her, he could see the fear in her crystal amber eyes. Fear of rejection.

"Do you love me?" he asked again.

"...I do," she admitted nervously.

Unable to resist, a smile broke out on his face. "Well, let me tell you what I feel. If it was a hypothetical question...I'd tell you..."

And here it is, Stella thought sadly.

"That I love you too," Brandon admitted while gazing into her perfect amber eyes. He recalled admitting that to her sometime a month ago, but she had fallen asleep. And he had no idea why he couldn't tell her that to her face.

Stella gasped at his reply. She felt as if a thousand fireworks exploded inside of her chest. Happiness molded itself onto her face as she started to laugh happily. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!" she started to twirl out of joy at his heartfelt words. These were the best words of her entire life!

He smiled at her childlike mentality and state of ecstasy. That's when he realized that all of his insecurities since morning were just...not worth it. He could spend the rest of his days watching her dance and laugh happily. Her smile, as cheesy as it may sound, was the thing that lit up his world and he couldn't have asked for a better gift from anyone.

Stella is his life's best surprise.

"I love you!" she suddenly screeched while hugging her phone dearly to her to make up for the lack of his presence.

"I love you too," he laughed. "And I'd love it even more if you went and got some sleep."

"Screw it," she dismissed his idea. He watched her eyes twinkle with excitement. "You literally made me the happiest girl alive. Do you know that?" she gushed.

"I can tell," he smirked. "You would've made me the happiest man alive if you had asked it when I was with you last month," he rolled his eyes.

"I was scared, okay? I had my defense," she stubbornly argued.

"Go to sleep, sunshine. We can talk on the weekend," he smiled softly at her. Really talk.

"Okay. Good night," she wished while waving her hand at him.

"Good night," he winked.

Blushing, Stella blew him a little kiss before cutting the call. She happily held her phone for a few moments before walking back towards her dorm. She felt like she could burst any second. "He loves me! He loves me! Me! Me! Me!" she twirled herself into her room before jumping on her bed. She finally let her heart settle in peace. So...did this really take their relationship to the next level?

Did it?

---

Two days later...

~ Shields' Corporations, New York - 2:00 PM ~

"Lisa, I don't care how you do it, but I need this meeting with the board to happen TODAY! Better yet, RIGHT NOW!" Brandon nearly yelled at his secretary. Lisa Haydon, his friend and personal secretary, who was quite used to her boss's temper tantrums by now, knew better than to argue loudly with him.

"Can I drop the formalities for a few minutes, sir?" Lisa spoke.

"To hell with your formality! The meeting takes away-!"

"No, this meeting takes place every month! And we can't do it without Dr. Hank!"

"I don't care. Either you reschedule it or I bail on everyone," Brandon stubbornly crossed his eyes and huffed.

"You're such a child. What's so wrong with working on Saturday?! It's not like you never worked from home before! You even came to office once on Sunday!"

"It's not that," he sighed. "...Stella's birthday is tomorrow and I want to be there for her," he admitted.

Lisa's eyes widened as she grinned wolfishly. "Well, why didn't you just say so?! I'll see what I can do."

"Oh you can finally do it now?!" he started yelling again.

Lisa rolled her eyes. "No. I was just kidding."

"LISA!" Brandon yelled out of frustration.

"Look, it's only for four hours."

"FOUR HOURS?!" he paled immediately and slumped further into his chair. "You're talking to me as if that's nothing!"

"Compared to twenty four, that's nothing. Look, there's no way to get out of it unless there's another CEO or someone qualified enough to take your place. And from I heard, your father is heading out to Seattle tomorrow to nurse our second branch."

"I know," Brandon sighed in disappointment. "Fine. Just...schedule it to finish as early as possible, please."

"Now, that, I can do." Lisa picked up her bag before exiting out of the room.

"Great," Brandon sighed before throwing his head back in frustration.

It hasn't even been a few minutes before a knock interrupted him again. "Come in," he snapped. He honestly needs to ban people from knocking unless it's an emergency.

"What crawled up your butt and died?" a deep, amused voice laughed.

Brandon's eyes widened when he saw two of his favorite people walk into the room. "Flora! Helia!" the brunette's lips stretched into a wide smile as he gave Helia a manly hug and Flora a hug and a light kiss on her cheek.

"How's the baby doing?" Brandon asked his sister although the answer was clearly visible on her face. There was still no visible bump as Flora is only about a little less than three months along.

Flora's jade eyes beamed with a strong motherly pride as she moved in a side hug with Helia. "Active, I'll tell you that," she laughed while tenderly clutching her stomach. "This little munchkin keeps me awake at night."

Brandon laughed. "Why do I smell a great pro football player?"

Helia smirked. "My man!" he laughed while giving a high-five to Brandon in agreement. "I told you so. Even he thinks so," Helia nudged his fiancee who only huffed.

"It's a girl," Flora defended.

"Female football player? Yeah, we better watch out," Brandon chuckled, earning another high-five from Helia.

"How's Stella doing?" Flora asked curiously.

"She's fine," Brandon smiled. The couple before him couldn't help but notice the twinkle in his brown eyes.

"Did something happen between you two?" Helia grinned wolfishly.

Flora smirked. "No worries, I'm ready to be an aunt!"

Brandon facepalmed while they laughed at his expense. "We're both doing just fine, thank you," he snapped.

"Now, that, we can tell. We just think-" Helia started.

"No baby bells ringing for us anytime soon, thank you again," Brandon rudely interrupted.

Flora laughed at her brother. "Well, anyways. We came by to give you this," the light brunette gave Brandon a card.

Brandon's eyes widened to see a wedding invitation in his hands. "I need an invitation to come and see you?!" he asked incredulously. "Sisters these days..."

Flora slapped his shoulder. "I'm just showing it to you, you idiot. It's in April," she explained while pointing towards the date.

"Already?!" Brandon exclaimed while flipping through the invitation.

The brunette hugged his sister. "I'm so happy for you both. You're marrying the best man I know," he grinned while fist pumping Helia.

Helia patted Brandon's back. "Thanks, man."

"Well, we have to go give these out to the others," Flora smiled. "I'll see you tomorrow."

Brandon nodded. "Be careful," he said.

Flora nodded with a small, affectionate smile on her face before leaving with Helia.

Brandon couldn't help but wonder how quickly time flew by. His younger sister was really marrying the best man. Helia is not only protective, but his gentle, caring, and loyal nature made him an ideal fit for any girl's dream guy.

Brandon sat in his chair, deep in thought. He wondered what kind of man he was. He was more than attractive and he knew that. He was protective of Stella and he'd rather die before letting anything happen to her. He had always been gentle, caring, and loving of her. Except once. It was a costly mistake from his part. He knew he had to atone for it somehow.

He didn't recall making any other mistakes during their relationship. She's happy with him. A goofy smile stretched onto his handsome face when he recalled how she joyful she was last night when he admitted to truly loving her with every fiber of his being. "She's happy. And that's all that matters," he whispered to himself. He eyed the date.

Just a couple more hours. And...

It'll be Stella's birthday.

---

Many hours later...

~ Princeton University - 11:58 PM ~

"You have got to be kidding me," Bloom scowled at the sleeping blonde. "It's her birthday so how can she freaking sleep?!"

Tecna laughed with a shake of her head. "We're not kids anymore, Bloom."

"I don't care. Sky better not let me sleep through my birthday," the redhead fluttered dreamily at the mere thought of her handsome blonde boyfriend.

Tecna rolled her eyes. "Ugh," she gagged in disgust.

"STELLLLAAAA!" Bloom yelled loudly and to that, Stella sat up with a jolt in fright. She screamed in fear as she tumbled out of the bed and landed on the floor on her butt. The blonde clutched her hammering heart while Tecna and Bloom nearly fell to the floor from laughing.

"You bitch!" Stella screamed while standing up and starting to chase Bloom around the room.

Tecna checked her watch. 12:00! "Happy birthday, Stell!" she squealed while hugging her running blonde friend. Bloom joined in as well. "Happy birthdaaayyyy!" the redhead sang.

Their little moment of cat and mouse chase was over. "Aww, thank you, girls," Stella's eyes shimmered happily.

"Honestly, no offense, your 22nd birthday was a total bummer," Bloom shuddered dramatically.

Tecna facepalmed and tossed the redhead a look.

"What? You're back with Brandon, so we're allowed to joke around!" Bloom giggled, earning laughs from the other two.

"Thank you, girls," Stella said once more.

"I thought your little boy toy would beat us to it," Bloom scratched her head in confusion while scouring the room for presents.

"He's not my boy toy," Stella scoffed. "He's just...he...you know what? Fine. Let's just go with that."

"See?! Thank you!" Bloom pointed victoriously.

"Presents!" Tecna exclaimed while shoving two boxes in Stella's hands. One from each of them.

One was wrapped in purple and lime green wrapping paper while the other was done in blue and pink. Classic colors of her friends. Stella eagerly opened them both at the same time.

She gasped as she pulled out a sapphire blue colored dress along with matching accessories. "How'd you...?" she trailed off. A few weeks ago, the trio made a trip to the mall and seeing this dress on a mannequin, Stella immediately wanted one. By the time she went inside to get it, someone already beat her to it.

"C'mon, Stel. I'd totally fail as your best friend if I didn't get you this!" Bloom said while slinging an arm over her.

"Thanks, Bloom," Stella grinned.

"My turn," Tecna clapped while shoving her present into Stella's face.

Stella laughed and opened the box. It was fairly smaller than Bloom's. A squeal erupted from her lips when she saw a little object sitting inside. "This is a limited edition bracelet!" Stella gasped as she looked a rose-golden, diamond-cut, expensive bracelet.

"No way!" Bloom squealed as she peeked inside. "Tecna really did outdid herself."

"Tec, I can't take this-"

"If I mean anything to you, you will," Tecna said firmly while cutting her off.

"Thank you so much, both of you," Stella said while she hugged them tightly.

"Oh. And this is from both of us," Bloom said while giving her another one.

Opening it curiously, Stella's eyes widened slowly. "I thought I lost this dress," she whispered while pulling a floral white pattered dress. It was the same dress that she thought was stolen somewhere from the washing machines of the hostel a week ago. She loved this dress so much. Not only it was gorgeous, but it was because Brandon had gifted it to her.

"It's a copy. Luckily, we saw it at the mall the other day. I know it doesn't mean as much as it does from Brandon, but-" Tecna started.

"No, of course not! Thank you so much," Stella grinned while folding them neatly before carefully tucking them away into her closet.

"So, what do you plan on doing-?" Bloom started but was cut off by Stella's phone ringing maniacally.

The redhead laughed and picked up Stella's phone, leaving the blonde to scream. "Give that back here!"

"Sorry, Brandon, you're toooooooooo lateeee!" Bloom sang into the phone. A deep chuckle could be distinctively heard from the other end. Stella snatched it away from her with a scowl. Ignoring their giggles, the blonde bolted out of the room for some room.

"She's kind of right though," Stella said when she was a safe distance away. "You are late."

"No, I'm not," his rich voice echoed. "I texted you. If I had called, the girls wouldn't shut up until I hung up myself."

Stella laughed at a twinge of grumpiness from him.

"Happy birthday, sunshine," he wished her with a gentle voice, making her heart soar.

"Thank you," she cooed in pleasure. "But...I really wish you were here with me," she said sadly.

"Sorry, I can't," he sighed. "I have an important meeting to attend to and I can't miss it."

"Okay. Then...then I'll drive up to see you," she stated.

"It'll be in vain," he exhaled a long sigh. "I wanted to tell you that I won't be free till seven or eight tonight."

"WHAT?!" Stella nearly screeched. "You're telling me this now?!" she snapped.

"You were never curious about my job. So I had no reason to tell you," he said as he rolled his eyes.

"You jerk! Why won't you let me come? I'll take a sneak peek and leave. Promiseeeee!" Stella pleaded.

"Sorry, princess. My gift for you is in the mail. It'll probably reach there by evening," Brandon informed.

"..."

"Stella?"

"This is me giving you a polite version of a middle finger," Stella snapped. "You're a complete jerk and a total asshole!"

"Whatever you say," he sighed. "I'll see you later. See ya. 'Night."

He hung up immediately, leaving Stella to stare at the phone wide-eyed. "Did he just hang up on me?" she scoffed.

She stared at her phone, expecting him to call her back at any second. To her dismay, he never did. "Why won't he let me see him?" she sighed sadly. He practically told her to buzz off since he'll be in a boring company meeting.

So...he doesn't want to see her. "Fine! Then I don't need him!"Stella growled angrily while stomping back to her room. She slammed the door open and steamily walked inside with heat blowing off from her ears.

"I don't see that call going well," Tecna remarked wide-eyed.

"We're soooooooo over!" Stella fumed while sitting cross-legged on her bed.

Tecna and Bloom looked at each other and then back at Stella.

"You have two seconds to start explaining," Bloom glared.

"I asked this sorry excuse of a boyfriend or whatever," Stella started by waving her phone in front of him before continuing, "To come over here! And he said that he can't because he had work. I was being super understanding and told him that I'd drive upstate, but he practically told me to get lost."

"He told me that he had no time to see me today," Stella said sadly.

Bloom facepalmed. She was close to Brandon, Nabu, and Helia out of the five remaining guys. And Stella is literally her best friend and truthfully, she wasn't going to stand to see such injustice being done to her friend.

Tecna remained silent and chose not to say anything.

After a long moment of pause, Stella spoke again. "You know what? It's fine, I guess. He's probably just really busy," she said. She just made a fuss because it was her birthday. She didn't celebrate last year because their breakup had still been fresh. And this year...

Bloom and Tecna didn't have to say it. They knew that a minute with Brandon is all Stella wanted.

"Good night, girls," the blonde dejectedly said before heading back to bed.

"Think we should do something?" Bloom whispered low enough for only Tecna to hear.

Tecna shook her head. "We don't have to. Brandon's probably up to something."

"Excuse me?"

"He's not the type of man to disappoint anyone, especially his girlfriend or...,err, wife on her birthday."

"Maybe, but..."

"I'm heading to sleep," Tecna yawned before rolling into the covers.

"Hope you're right," Bloom admitted with a frown before switching off the lights.

---

~ The Next Morning - 10:00 AM ~

Stella sighed for the umpteenth time today. She probably called Brandon ten thousand times already. To her dismay, he never picked up nor called her back. He didn't even send a pitiful text saying that he'll call later.

"What the hell are you doing, Brandon?" she whispered to no one in particular while walking through the quad alone. She still had thirty minutes till her next class and thought that she can get some Brandon time!

"Maybe I am desperate," Stella mumbled to herself while her fingers tapped the dial button again. She sighed deeply as her phone kept dialing endlessly. After a few rings, she cut it herself before releasing a stream of 'I miss him sooooo much' sighs. Is this what lovesickness is? "I don't remember being this lovesick," Stella defended her conscious.

"I'm gonna look like a loon at this rate," she mumbled to her as she walked in some random direction.

She had been receiving video calls from her friends and tons of wishes from her classmates as well. How so many people knew about her birthday was beyond her. She told only a few but it was still heartwarming to listen to everyone shower love on her.

"I want to see him," Stella sighed again as her shoulders slumped.

---

~ Jay's House, NJ - 6:30 PM ~

Stella impatiently knocked on the door and rang the doorbell incessantly. "Open up, you idot!"

After what felt like a million years, the door opened. Stella screamed in delight when she saw Jay and instantly flung herself into his arms. "Jay!" she excitedly screeched.

"One would think I'm your boyfriend instead of your brother," he chuckled while kicking the door shut after letting her in. She slapped his shoulder. "Don't you dare," she warned playfully.

"I know I've said it already, but happy birthday, blondie," Jay smiled at her before slinging an arm around her shoulders. "Anything special today?"

Stella huffed and shook her head no. "Nope. Just like any other day, I guess," she told him. "The sad, sad, sad thing is that I had five lectures to sit through," Stella yawned sleepily.

Jay chuckled. "Well, no offense, but I want you out of my house in an hour."

"Excuse me?" Stella asked in bewilderment.

"I have to see a very important person and I need you to bolt," he smirked.

"I can't believe you don't trust me enough to let me stay here alone," Stella dramatically clutched her heart, acting downright offended. "Oh my poor soul," she fanned herself.

Jay chuckled. "Yeah, well. Not today, I sure as hell don't."

"And pray tell, who is this important person?" She suddenly gasped. "You have a boyfriend, don't you!? You sneaky little devil! How could you not tell me? I visit you like every other day!"

Jay pinched her full cheeks at her adorableness. "No need to be jelly, Stella bear. You will always be a close second. Right after your hunk, of course," he smirked.

Stella burst out laughing at Jay's neverending daydreaming about Brandon. "Playfulness aside, do you really like Brandon?" she asked curiously. "And I can't believe I'm asking this," she blinked.

Jay laughed. "What answer would you like?"

"Actually...I think I'm okay with either one," Stella scratched her chin in thought.

Jay remained silent for a few moments. "I did. Once. But now, he's family to me, you know? He's like my brother," he answered meaningfully.

"Really?"

Jay nodded. "We've been friends since kindergarten, I guess," he said, making her eyes widen.

"Wow...that's over twenty years..." Stella thought in awe. Coming to think of it, the girls, especially Musa and Layla were no different. She's known them for nearly two decades.

"I knew that something was wrong with me. I was different than the other kids in my class. I was a total nerd too. I met Brandon back then," Jay said with a shrug. Remembering a memory, Jay chuckled. "He was the cutest kid back then too."

"Wish I could see a mini Brandon. Oh and there's nothing wrong with you, Jay. If you weren't gay, I swear you'd be my close second," Stella cheekily winked while making a mental note to ask Flora for their childhood pictures.

"Right back at ya, Stella bear," Jay grinned while hugging her.

Stella gladly hugged him back. Staying with Jay made her feel safe and cozy. He kept an arm around her while occasionally ruffling her blonde hair.

"You okay?" he asked.

"Yup," she answered with a small nod, but couldn't help the sigh that escaped her lips. Jay tossed her a look that made her let out another sad sigh. "Brandon hasn't answered any of my calls since morning."

"He's probably busy. You know how he is," Jay explained. "It's not the first time he's bailed on you because of work or whatever."

"I guess you're right. It's not because it's my birthday or anything, but it'd still be nice if he at least called once."

"What else did you do today?"

"The girls took me out for a couple of hours," Stella told him, thankful for a change of subject.

"Hmm," he nodded as he listened. He picked up his phone and looked at the time. "Could you run an errand for me?"

"Um...sure. What's in it for me?"

Jay smirked. "Your birthday present from me."

"You already gave me one, you dork," Stella rolled her eyes.

"Trust me. You'll love this one!" Jay winked while pulling her up to stand. He pushed her towards the door. You'll really love it, he smirked to himself.

"Woah, woah, woah! Slow it, chimp!" Stella pushed him away as he nearly threw her out the door. "Where am I going?"

"I need you to go to this address and pick up a mail for me. I'll call that you're coming," Jay answered while shoving a little piece of paper into her hand.

Stella looked at the scribbled handwriting with a raised eyebrow. "Are you into drugs?" she asked.

"Why would I need drugs when I have you?" he grinned and finger snapped at her.

Stella sighed at his antics. "Fine. Whatever," she said while showing herself out. "I'm serious about the drugs!" she hollered on the way out while heading to her car.

Stella sat inside and plugged in the address into her GPS before pulling out of the driveway. She checked her watch. It's nearly seven. She drove with a lot on her mind. Actually, there's really nothing on her mind except her current favorite person in the world.

"I wonder if he's going to remember his own birthday," Stella muttered sourly to herself. Most likely not, from her experience. He'll be twenty five this year. And she's just turned twenty three. They were both nearly two years apart. It wasn't much of an age difference considering they're both legal adults.

Stella personally thought that it was hot. She blushed to herself when she remembered his handsome face. He didn't change much but his appearance was a little more masculine than last year. He lost some of his boyish charm and developed manly features. His strong jaw structured well and framed his face well. His eyes, always acute and observant, have gotten darker and simply drool-worthy.

And don't even get me started on those lips, Stella daydreamed happily. She could never resist wanting to run her fingers through his chestnut brown, thick locks. "Oh good heavens," Stella let out a blissful sigh while feeling her heartrate speed up.

The GPS suddenly pinged and alerted her to take the final right turn before arriving to the destination. Stella's eyes narrowed in confusion as she looked around her surroundings. It was all...foresty.

"Where the hell am I?" she mused while glancing left and right. "This is what happens when you don't pay attention while driving," she chided herself. There's a small building ahead that looked like a woody and old-fashioned cottage. Parking the car in the closest available parking space to the building, she stepped out in confusion.

"Am I lost...?" Stella wondered while looking at the address on the little piece of paper. She looked at the building and the number on the door matched with the house number on the paper. "Okay..."

With curiosity, Stella clutched took her phone and keys before moving towards the building. She climbed the stairs and opened the door. To her relief, the inside looked like an administrative building. Well, at least Jay didn't send her off to a random location.

She approached the front desk. A young woman in her early thirties looked up from the computer with a smile on her face. "Good evening, ma'am. How can I help you?" she asked.

"Hey, I'm wondering where people usually get their mail. My friend sent me here to pick up his mail for him," Stella stammered cluelessly. This is what I get for forgetting to ask details!

"Your name?" the lady asked.

"Stella. Stella Shields," Stella introduced herself while pulling out her ID.

"Ohh!" the lady suddenly looked up from her computer with wide eyes. "Please follow me. Your friend has indeed called us," she smiled.

"Okay," Stella shrugged. She followed the lady outside. "Just go straight up this road and take the second right."

"Um, not to be rude, but where am I? I wasn't really paying attention when I drove here," Stella grinned sheepishly.

The lady laughed. "No worries. It's a camping resort."

"A r-resort?" Stella's eyes widened.

"Yes, of course. Your friend did say that you'd be coming and we've received instructions to guide you the way."

"Oh. Um, okay. Thank you," Stella confusedly bid her a bye before getting in the car. "Why in the world does he need mail from a resort?! Ugh. Whatever."

Stella pulled out of the lot before following the lady's instructions. Along the way, the blonde saw a few cottages as well as tourists roaming around in luggage. "Ohhh...cool."

She took a right turn. She slowly went up ahead according to the speed limit. Her smile slowly dropped and turned into sheer confusion when she literally saw nothing around her even after going inside for a whole mile or two. "Um...maybe I took the wrong turn," she spoke with the air.

"Ugh. I've had it with these dumb instructions," Stella cursed before parking to the side. She stepped out and scratched her head in confusion. There were only cottages of varied sizes in the distance and nothing more. She took out her cell phone. She randomly yawned a little while pulling Jay's contact.

Just then, her eyes peeled wide open when her phone buzzed with an all too familiar number. A gorgeous smile spread across her face when she saw Brandon calling her. "Hello?!" she answered with a little too much excitement and loudly.

"Hey," a deep voice spoke, sending shivers down her frozen body. It was pretty cold outside, considering it's still January. But Stella didn't care.

"Where have you been all day?!" Stella huffed. "I've called you a gazillion times!"

"Yeah, my phone told me," he chuckled. "So...what's up?"

"What's up? What's up?! I can't believe you have the gall to ask me that!"

"What did I say?" he asked innocently, but Stella could practically sense the devilishly arrogant smirk on his face.

"Well, to answer your stupid question, you told me to piss off. That's exactly what I'm doing," Stella answered with a glare on her face.

He let out a small laugh. "You know I didn't say that."

"You might as well have. Well, you can go back to your boring meeting while I have the time of my life," Stella said rudely.

"You sure about that?" Brandon asked.

"Of course I am! Shoo!"

"Are you really, really sure about that?" he asked again with a small smirk on his face.

"Yesssss! Why are you asking as if my decision matters?! Go away and leave me alone!" Stella screamed into the phone.

A few moments of silence ensued, but the call wasn't cut.

"Well...I thought I'd come here to surprise my girlfriend...but since she doesn't want me here..." Brandon trailed off with a growing smirk while silently counting to three.

Stella gasped in shock. She looked at the phone in amazement. His voice was way too close and near to be speaking over the phone. She turned around and sucked in a breath at seeing him right before her. He was standing a few meters away beside his car which she somehow didn't hear. He was in a suit, but Stella couldn't see any of that.

Her hands instantly covered her mouth in shock as she blinked a few times in disbelief. She rubbed her eyes twice and blinked again. Slowly, she pinched herself and winced.

"Really?!" he crossed his arms in annoyance, clearly not appreciating the fact that she thought it was her figment of imagination. "You're acting as if I never came down to see you before," he scowled.

Listening to him speak, Stella stepped back into reality. "Brandon!" she squealed while running up to him. He grinned and opened his arms wide. Stella ran faster and catapulted herself straight into his waiting arms. Laughing himself, he listened to her laugh happily as he twirled her around before gently setting her down on her feet.

"I can't believe it! You're here! You're really here!" the blonde hugged him tightly.

"I'd have to be the worst guy in the whole world if I wasn't here to celebrate my girl's birthday," he chuckled.

She blushed. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!" she jumped up and down in his arms in her newfound state of hysteric exultation.

"Happy birthday, beautiful," he spoke tenderly while gently cupping her face.

"Thank you," she smiled. She pulled slightly away and looked at his state of attire. "You're in your formals...why is that?" she asked. She didn't dare ogle at him in this state. He was just soooo good-looking either way and she couldn't help but wonder how handsome he was. Okay, she knew that looks aren't everything, but damn. He had them all.

His white crisp dress shirt was plastered over his broad shoulders with cuffs rolled till his elbows. He wore a metallic watch as the only accessory.

"I drove here straight from work," he explained with a groan. "Please don't remind me of that hell hole," he spoke while leaning against the car, with his hands in his pockets.

"What went wrong?" she asked with a laugh.

"I was very clear in telling you to not remind me about that place," he shot her a small glare along with a roll of her eyes.

"Were you really busy since morning?" she asked.

"No, just this afternoon," he smirked, expecting a fiery question in about three seconds.

She gasped. So he wasn't busy?! She grabbed his collar with both of her hands. "So you purposefully ignored my calls?!" she yelled angrily.

Smirking, he coolly replied. "Of course I did. That way, you can miss me even more," he winked.

She scoffed and let go of his collar sharply. "I wasn't missing you, thank you."

"Really? The 78 missed calls and 139 texts beg to differ," he smirked.

She gasped. "I...I sent that many?" she asked while looking up at him with a small blush on her face.

"It's quite encouraging, you know," Brandon chuckled at her embarrassment and ruffled her hair, much to her annoyance.

"...wait a second. So this was your lame idea?! Sending me to a camping area to pick up...mail?!" Stella asked.

Brandon raised his hands in surrender. "No, that was all him. I didn't have any excuse to get you here, so he blabbed something."

"You two need to work on your definition of a good excuse," Stella smirked while shaking her head.

She gasped when Brandon suddenly seized her by her waist, crushing her to his chest. "Enough about him. I want to talk about us," he smirked.

Hearing that, Stella blushed a hundred shades of pink. "W-What a-a-about us?" she stuttered while blushing like a maniac.

"What you said the other day...I want to hear it now," he smirked while tracing his cheek with the back of his knuckles. She blushed while looking away. "I said a lot of things," she flushed at his intense gaze although she had a clear picture of what he was talking about.

"You know what I'm referring to," he whispered hotly against the shell of her ear. His cool breath fanned over her face, sending a violent shiver down her spine. She closed her eyes and bit back a moan as he tilted her head back just enough to bury himself into her collarbone. "I'm waiting, sunshine," he spoke against her neck, enjoying the way she whimpered at his touch.

"I l-love you, Brandon," she said so softly in an angelic voice that it simply took his breath away. He lifted his head and held her by the base of her neck, with his thumb grazing over her cheek smoothly. He brought his forehead down to hers and held her tightly as he spoke against her lips. "Again," he whispered.

Turning heavily red in the face, she couldn't find herself to look away from his piercing gaze. His eyes were nearly jet black as he enslaved her honey-colored orbs with his own. "I love ymmmph-!" she started but was cut off by his lips.

A inextinguishable fire ignited itself in her innermost secretive places. She moaned against his demanding lips as the heat sizzled through her every vein and nerve, slowly surfacing through her skin. He enjoyed her urgent whimpers and took advantage of her parted coral-colored lips, igniting his inferno of boyhood fantasies. He cruelly pulled back before she grew accustomed to the taste of him.

Trembling against him, she opened her eyes dumbly and was instantly smitten by his coal brown depths. "I'll always love you more," he whispered, his forehead never leaving hers. She gasped for air as he slowly freed her from his clutches.

"Take your car and follow me," he whispered. "Will you?" he asked, smirking at her dazed state.

She nodded dumbly and unwillingly let go of her grip on him. She walked back slowly, still shocked that she was just kissed like that. Stella's lips burst into a smile as she resembled no one less than a blushing bride.

She honestly couldn't wait to graduate out of Princeton.

...

---

~ 7:40 PM ~

"Are we there yet?" Stella asked impatiently while walking in slow footsteps.

"The answer hasn't changed since the last two seconds," Brandon chuckled while tapping her temple sharply.

She winced and rubbed the sore spot. "Ow. Well, excuse me. You're not the one walking in a blindfold," the blonde hissed while elbowing him.

"You should learn to trust me more, sunshine," he teased while he led her to a clearing by gently holding her waist.

"Pleaseeeee! Can I take it off now?!" Stella whined.

"It's nothing special though," Brandon told her.

"Anything I do with you is special to me," she told him with a smile.

"Take it off," he whispered before standing behind her.

"Finally!" she sighed in exasperation, earning a chuckle from him. She untied the opaque fabric and let it fall on her shoulders as she slowly took in what's before her.

"Musa told me that you never camped before," he said.

Stella's face was faintly illuminated by a small campfire a few meters ahead. The fire was surrounded by a few makeshift seats consisting of large, flat stones and cut logs. To the side, there was a large, blue square tent with a faint bluish glow emitting from within. On the other side, there was a closed barbeque grill, waiting patiently to be used.

"You did all this...?" she asked in awe while turning towards him.

"I'm sorry I couldn't get here sooner," he sighed. "Otherwise, it definitely would've been much better." He looked at her guiltily. He let out a low grunt when she flung her arms around his neck and hugged him tightly.

"Don't be silly. I'm just happy you're here," she said while smiling into his shirt. She meant every word. Having him here was literally the sweetest surprise she could ever receive. He was all she really needed. She would gladly exchange all the presents she ever received throughout all her years for some quality time with him.

He reciprocated instantly and she had to coo at how warm he was. And that's when she realized how her face had gone totally numb. She buried her head deeper into his jacket to warm herself up.

"C'mon," he coaxed her while rubbing his hands up and down her shivering shoulders. "You're freezing."

She followed him as her teeth chattered to the cold. He took her and made her sit on the logs before adding a few broken twigs into the flames. Stella felt a little sleepy but slapped herself awake. Who in the world knows when he'll leave again?!

She sat up straight when Brandon joined beside her and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. "Do you want to head inside?" he asked.

"It's so cold..." she whispered weakly while leaning her head against his shoulder.

Brandon stood up. He took her hand and pulled her up, leaving her to curiously look at him. He pushed her towards the tent and opened the zipper. Pulling the flap aside, he dragged her inside before closing it. Stella's eyes widened when she saw that the inside space seemed bigger than it really looked. There was enough space for them to walk freely but they have to bend slightly in order to be compatible with the tent's height.

She looked down to see a makeshift bed. There was a mattress and two thick comforters laying on top of it. "Are we going to sleep there?" she pointed.

"Take off your jacket," he ordered while removing his own and placing it neatly on the tinted blue flooring. "What? No!" Stella clutched the fabric tighter and stubbornly refused.

"Either you take it off or I'll do it myself," he smirked.

"Why?! I'm cold!"

Sighing, he grabbed her before reaching to her jacket's zipper swiftly, earning a surprised squeal from her. Letting him remove, she just stood there and observed him silently.

She randomly noted the hair that shaggily covered his eyes with just the right amount and length. Reaching over, she couldn't help but rake her fingers through his strands. He looked up questioningly as she played with his hairstyle. Stopping her movements, he removed the jacket off of her before ushering her to get inside the little bed which was big enough to accommodate them both.

"You'll suffocate with all those extra clothes," he said while joining and laying down beside her. Pulling up the blankets, he covered them both while listening to the fire cackle outside. Stella blushed at their proximity, just like she always. Scooting closer to him, she laid her head on top of his chest while he mutely wrapped an arm around her.

He took off his black, satin tie with his other free hand and tossed it towards the little heap of their jackets. "Will you leave again tonight?" she asked him sadly.

He looked down at her and shook his head. "No."

"Really?" she asked as her eyes lit up.

"Really," he smiled.

Her heart started to rest as she slowly relaxed against him. She slowly started to play with the buttons of his shirt as she traced the muscular planes hidden deceptively underneath his shirt with her fingers. Stella looked up at him and to her surprise, his eyes were closed. Her lips parted into a small 'oh' as she watched him sleep.

"Brand?" she whispered.

"Hmm?" he hummed in a low voice and for the first time since he got here, Stella noted how tired he seemed. He told her that he drove here straight from work. He must be exhausted from working all day, yet...there was not a trace of complaint or discomfort on his face.

"...Nothing," she whispered as she continued to glance at him. He came all the way here...just for her...

He made a genuine effort to make up for the lack of his presence all day. Just for her. Her eyes dwelled in happiness as she continued to look at him. Leaning over, she brushed her lips over his before taking them into a soft, loving kiss. He stayed still for a few moments before Stella felt him kiss her back. "What was that for?" he asked after a few moments. His eyes fluttered open and he saw her staring at him like a lost treasure. "Does it matter?" she asked. "No, it doesn't," he truthfully admitted.

She rested against him again. "I'm sorry," she said.

"For what?" he asked in confusion.

"For making you come all the way here. I should've come myself," she started to brew tears in her eyes. All of a sudden, a small, choked sob left her lips. Brandon's eyes snapped fully awake as he slowly lifted himself.

"Stella, look at me," he grasped her chin firmly. Her baby brown eyes looked at him earnestly.

"First things first, I won't allow you to drive to New York," he warned. "And second, you didn't make me come here. I came because I wanted to see you."

"I wanted to see you too! I should've come. And now...you're tired and exhausted because of me," she cried.

"No, I'm not," he said.

"Yes, you are! I'm just a burden to you!" she hiccuped.

"Stella, stop," he raised his voice with a warning laced into his tone. "You're not an outsider or a stranger. You're the girl I love and nothing I do for you can be a burden to me."

He continued a little angrily. "I don't want us to have this discussion again. Do you understand?"

She nodded. His eyes softening, he tenderly wiped away the insecure tears resting on her face. "Rest for an hour and we'll have something to eat. Okay?" he asked while turning his body sideways to face her. She nodded and slipped into his arms. She allowed herself to listen to his steady heartbeat. It was a successive repetition of soft thumps that lulled her to a light slumber. Her grip on him slowly grew loose as she dozed off like he said.

---

A little more than an hour later...

~ 9:00 PM ~

An abrupt, yet a soft pitter-patter against the exterior dome of the tent jolted Stella awake. She blinked her eyes open and rubbed her eyelids slowly to snap herself awake. She lifted her head slowly, feeling quite refreshed at the oddly timed nap. She saw Brandon fast asleep and couldn't help but smile. It was rare times like these that she got to watch him sleep his worries away.

She narrowed her eyes in confusion when she saw the tent slightly swaying. She slowly removed his arms from her before lifting herself up. She pulled the covers till his chin before putting on her jacket and moving towards the tent's zipper. She opened the tent and pulled the flap aside before stepping out.

Stella gasped when she felt the light drizzle that disturbed her from her peaceful slumber. She looked up at the sky and frowned when she saw dark clouds forming. The typical cocktail blue shade was beginning to fade. Grey clouds hovered above them and conjoined into darker pillows of cloud.

It looked like a storm was rolling in. Gasping at the realization, Stella ran into the tent again. "Brandon!" she pounced on top of him. "Wake up, wake up, wake up!" she squealed as she shook him awake. Brandon instantly opened his eyes in panic when he heard Stella screaming. To his confusion and relief, she was perched on top of him. "What the hell?" he mumbled while rubbing his eyes and yawning.

"It's raining! Wake up!" she said while shaking him harder.

"What?" he asked as he listened.

The familiar scent of wet grass and mud filled his nostrils. He sighed. "This was what your screaming was about?" he asked while falling back. She sat on his chest and pulled at his collar. "No, it looks like a storm is coming in!"

He sighed. "Stella, stop being silly," he yawned.

"No! Brandon Shields, I refuse, I repeat, I absolutely refuse to sleep in this tent while shivering to death! SO WAKE UP!"

Brandon opened his eyes in annoyance. "Ugh," he groaned while pushing off of him, letting her body plop to the side. He sat up and tossed the covers to the side before standing up. He rolled his sleeves before peeking outside. He frowned at the weather.

"I didn't think it'd really rain," he said.

Stella tried to jump here and there on him to get a view of the outside. Giving up, she crawled from underneath before standing up beside him. "You knew it would rain?" she groaned.

"I checked the weather and it said that chance of rain is only eighty percent," he explained.

She facepalmed. "Eighty literally means a hundred, you idiot. How did you end up with a doctorate again?"

"I didn't think it would actually happen! The weather seemed fine in the evening," he defended himself.

Stella held her hands out and to her dismay, the droplets hit her hand faster than a drizzle. A huffing wind started to howl, stirring the flaps of the tent. They both watched as the blazing fire nearby quickly go out into a pile of smoke as the sound of droplets only got faster. The near vicinity instantly went dark as the light emitting from the flames went out. Stella clutched Brandon's arm as she suddenly felt a gust of cold air whish past her face.

"We need to leave. The tent won't hold all night," he told her as she nodded in agreement.

The soft, humming droplets ceased as the sounds intensified. The tent was struck with rainwater falling with such force that their temporary shelter started to sway in the wind unprotectively.

Brandon pulled her inside before grabbing his jacket and stoving any important possessions inside. The car was a long way away and it'll take a solid five minutes of running to get there. It was plenty of time to get soaked. Perfect, he thought sarcastically.

He winced slightly as the tent started to howl in pain as walls of water drummed violently against the fabrics. "Come on," he grabbed her hand.

"Where?" she asked worriedly while following him.

"The trees are the worst place to be under in a storm like this," he told her. "We're going to the cabin. It's only two minutes from here."

"There's a cabin here?!" she asked in wonder while looking around.

Brandon chuckled. "You didn't really think I'd leave us sleeping in a tent with eighty percent chance of rain now, didn't you?" he said while pulling her hood over her head and pulling the zipper all the way up firmly. He removed his jacket and made her wear it.

"Brandon, it's too cold. Take it back," she said while trying to stop him.

"I'll be fine."

"Come on," he took her hand in his larger one and dashed outside. A violent shiver travelled down her spine as Stella entered into the pouring rain. She winced as the cold and harsh rain bit her skin. They both ran through the dense area. She could barely feel her palms and her fingers were good as gone. Her jackets did almost nothing to help her as they both got drenched pretty quickly. Her hair stuck messily across her face and soon, water seeped into her clothes on the inside.

Her teeth chattered. Her lips turned cold and were probably pale and bluish purple from the frigid cold. She turned her eyes towards Brandon. From what she could see, his white shirt turned completely transparent and see-through, giving her a delicious view of his muscles as they flexed with his every movement. She swooned shamelessly but fortunately for her, her inappropriate sounds were lost in the rain.

She blushed heavily and turned her eyes away from the tempting sight before he catches her ogling in such a situation. "How much further?!" Stella yelled over the downpour. She was almost freezing to death and the cabin was nowhere in sight.

He didn't reply. Instead, he simply held onto her hand tightly and ran. To her relief, the trees started to part and grew less dense and thick, indicating that a clearing is not that much far ahead. Thoroughly drenched and freezing, Stella didn't feel like asking anymore questions.

To her relief, a wooden-polished cottage appeared in view within a few seconds. They raced through the neatly trimmed grass and up the stairs towards the front door. Brandon let Stella's hand go as he pulled out the keys and swiftly unlocked the door. They both went inside without further delay. Stella came in after him and slammed the door shut.

It took a few moments to catch their breaths. Water pooled messily around their feet. The house was cold as well. Brandon sighed in relief and frowned at the plastered clothes, resembling no less than a second skin. Other than that, it didn't take him long to adjust his heart rate and calm down. He closed his eyes and breathed a few times.

He turned his side and took a good look at Stella. She was leaning against the door and looked just about ready to pass out. She was sickly pale and her lips were almost purple. "Stel!" He raced over to her immediately as she closed her eyes, ready to faint.

"You're okay. Come on. You need to warm up," he said while dragging her towards the bathroom down the hallway. Stella hugged herself tightly as a wave of fatigue washed over her. She wasn't used to this much cold at all. She preferred the heat and summer rather than a day in freezing temperatures.

Her teeth chattering, she numbly followed Brandon as he led her inside the shower. He turned on the shower and set it to a tolerable hot temperature. Stella breathed as the hot water sizzled against her frozen skin. They both stood there under the falling waters. Stella breathed calmly as she felt blood returning to her cheeks again. But it wasn't enough. Her clothes disgustingly stuck to her like a second skin. She hurriedly removed the jackets she wore and tossed them over the curtain. She heard a squishy plop but didn't bother to care.

Brandon, too, started to unbutton his dress shirt. It's clear that the shirt is probably ruined by now. He frowned at a little tear on his shoulder. Yup, it's official now. Stupid branches, he rolled his eyes while pulling it off of him. Stella inaudibly gasped as she watched him undress not less than a foot away from her. She grew red in the face as he totally stood there oblivious. He pulled his tank over his head before throwing it on the pile. Stella watched in fascination as the water slapped against his bare, broad shoulders. His sun-kissed, tanned skin shimmered ethereally under the steaming water droplets as he ruffled his hair with closed eyes.

Brandon slowly opened his eyes and to his amusement, he found Stella staring at him. Her eyes instantly widened and she looked away immediately, blushing at having been caught red-handed. His eyes visibly darkened at her appearance. She hugged herself, but he could still clearly make out what's underneath under the barely translucent clothing. Of the days she could've chosen to wear white...she chooses today. Her blouse was nearly transparent, save for the grey sports bra underneath which showed her perfectly rounded and firm chest. Her midriff was completely exposed, much to his delight and chagrin at the same time. Her dark jeans exposed her long-legged figure and he sighed at his own plight. God help me...and her, he thought. His eyes traveled slowly back up to her face. Her cheeks were a bright red and he noticed how she was still blushing from earlier.

He smirked and took a step towards her. "Like what you see?" he asked huskily.

Stella blushed and didn't reply. This is so embarrassing! she flushed. She gasped when his arm snaked around her waist. Looking up at him, she was drawn to his coal brown orbs. "Do you know something that I've always wanted to do?" he whispered while clasping her cheek. His eyes darted to the beaded dew drops that rested on her lips before glancing into her curious eyes. He leaned closer towards her face and Stella found herself closing her eyes automatically. He hoisted up slowly and she felt herself floating, almost flying, in bliss as their lips met in a soft kiss under the water.

Stella tentatively placed her palms on his bare chest and felt a jolt of electricity run up her spine at the contact. The shower, the room, the roaring thunder above, and everything else melted away as they kissed each other like their lives depended on it. His fingers itched to push past the barriers, but urged himself to stay in control. He loved the feel of her soft, supple body against his harder one as he gently caressed her waist. Stella's heart beat faster and faster as she surrendered herself to him completely. Maybe it was the thick atmosphere here tonight that pushed her towards him with an even greater magnetic pull. Or maybe it was just his shirtless figure. Or maybe both and a couple million reasons. She honestly didn't care. She loved the sensations he gave her as he pushed her up the shower wall and kissed her harder. Despite wanting to and almost feeling the compelling need to, Brandon pushed his restraint levels to the maximum.

An ear-splitting, screeching roar up in the sky startled them both and momentarily separated them from each other. Instead of resuming, Brandon simply hugged her against his bare-chested figure. "I love you, Stella," he murmured breathlessly. Stella smiled in happiness and lifted her head up. "I love you too," she spoke while her lips stretched into a dazzling grin. After processing her revelation for a few moments, he grinned like a complete, goofy fool as he laughed while picking her up bridal-style. She squealed as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Watching him laugh in delight sent her heart soaring. His eyes shone with joy and he looked completely lovesick as he glanced at her with complete adoration.

Unable to help herself, she pressed her lips tightly against his cheek. Pulling back, she hugged him tightly and drowned in his arms. "Brandon...?"

"Hmm?" he asked while grinning.

"Um...I'm kind of hungry," Stella admitted sheepishly while rubbing her stomach.

He laughed while setting her down. "You can shower here," he said while stepping out of the tub.

"Wait!" she grabbed his arm.

He turned around questioningly.

"I...I don't have any extra clothes," she admitted while blushing.

"There's a towel on the rack over there," he smirked while crossing his arms.

She blushed a beet red at his implication. "I'm not prancing around in a towel in front of you," she said with reddened cheeks.

Chuckling, he leaned forward and kissed her forehead. "Finish showering and come out. I'll have a fresh set on the bed," he explained.

"You brought clothes?" she asked.

He rolled his eyes while slowly moving out of the room. "Don't be stupid. Of course I did," he smirked on his way out of the bathroom.

Stella blushed softly as he shut the door closed. She bit her lip, debating whether or not to go up there and lock the freaking door. It didn't take her even a moment of hesitation to just dump the idea. There was really no need to do so. Smiling, she stripped herself off the remaining wet clothes and threw them in the pile.

"Ahhh..." she moaned in bliss as the water touched her bare skin without any restrictions. "That feels so good."

---

Thirty to forty minutes later...

~ 10:00 PM ~

Stella shakily touched the knob with nervous fingers. Slowly turning it, she gently pushed the door open and poked her head outside. She smiled softly when she saw the bedroom door closed as well. Clutching the towel, she slowly stepped out and breathed blithely when she saw the room being hot enough for her liking. She slowly walked towards the bed as her waist-length damp hair moved limply about her. As he promised, he did lay a fresh set of clothes for her. Stella blushed as she picked up his shirt and sniffed it. It smelt like him. An intoxicating earthy scent infiltrated her nostrils as she put the shirt on. She slipped on the track pants as well and pulled on the strings tightly to make it stay. His clothes were too large on her but they sure as hell were comfy. Stella hugged herself as she felt his clothes hug her back. She felt a sense of protectiveness envelop her just the way it would feel whenever Brandon would hug her.

Stella tossed the towel, along with the remaining wet clothes, in the washing machine. Tucking her temporary daydreaming inside, she opened the door to the bedroom and stepped out. On their way inside, she hadn't noticed the house properly. She smiled at the wooden and earthy theme instead of posh modernity. The cottage was beautiful with creme-white walls and simple furniture. Stella cruised over to the living room and saw a fire being gently flaming up in the fireplace. She looked around for Brandon, knowing he'll probably finish his shower first.

Suddenly, a fresh aroma filled her nose as she turned her head towards the kitchen. With a bright smile, she excitedly skipped over to the kitchen when she saw a freshly showered, damp-haired brunette working. Grinning, she moved over to him and wrapped her slender arms around his torso, hugging him from behind. "Hi," she chirped while kissing his back.

"Hey, sunshine," he greeted her enthusiastically. He placed a palm over her hands for a moment before spinning her around to face him. "Hey, I'm sorry for all of this," he apologized.

"For what?" she asked in confusion.

"For ruining your birthday. I should've anticipated that it would be raining tonight. I shouldn't have let you sleep in the ten-"

She placed a finger on his lips, cutting him off. "I wouldn't trade it for anything. You being here is the best present I can ever get on my birthday," she said sincerely.

He smiled slightly before kissing her cheek and moving away. "Dinner's ready," he informed before moving towards the dining room with two dishes.

"You cooked?!" she asked incredulously while following him. "How?"

"Well, uh, there's a stove and a pot over there. You do the math," he smirked while being the smartass he is. Stella rolled her eyes.

Chuckling, he gave her the answer she wanted. "Tonight's not the only time you'll be with me. We have all day tomorrow too. I brought some food from the mart, just in case," he answered.

"You'll stay here tomorrow too?!" she squealed while sprinting towards him.

He smirked. "I mean...I'll leave if you want."

She gasped. "No! Stay, stay, stay!" she bubbled in pure joy. Her stomach growled suddenly, making her flush with embarrassment.

He laughed as she clung to him. "C'mon. Let fill you with some food."

Stella blushed as she skipped alongside him merrily. He smiled fondly at her childlike nature and wondered if this was her true character. She seemed so innocent that he couldn't help but wonder if that is what pulled him to her. She literally lit up this entire room with merely smiling and whether he cared to realize it or not, it's truly because of him that she's finally happy.

Smiling to himself, he sat down. Before he could say anything, Stella jumped into his lap. "You weigh a ton," he groaned mockingly. "What have you been eating these past few weeks, woman?!"

She scoffed, "Excuse you."

"Just kidding," he chuckled. "Don't you dare eat less," he warned seriously this time.

"I won't," she smiled while adoringly wrapping her arms around his neck.

He pulled her closer and brought her forehead down on his. "Happy birthday, beautiful," he wished her sincerely.

Her cheeks grew warm. "Thank you," she whispered while burying her head into the crook of his neck.

"Here, this is for you," he said while pulling out a thick box from underneath his chair. She gasped and looked at the present. "You didn't have to-"

"This one's different," he smiled.

Stella bit her lip and took it. She let out another gasp at how heavy it was. "What is it?" she wondered out loud. Her fingers moved towards the wrapping paper but he placed a palm over them.

"Open it when I'm gone," he told her seriously.

Her eyes widened. "Is it another letter?" she asked anxiously.

He smiled and caressed her cheek. "I would've asked you to open it while I'm here if that were the case. But no, there aren't any more," he told her. Stella sighed in relief.

"Why can't I open it now?" she asked impatiently with a little pout on her face.

"Just because," he said.

"Fine..." she sighed while dishearteningly pushing it away.

He chuckled at her face. "You want me to leave, so you can open it, don't you?"

Her body chimed with laughter. "You wish," she smirked. "Tough luck, but no. You're staying right here," she ordered.

"Yes, ma'am," he mock saluted.

"So...what's for dinner?" Stella asked, her attention all of a sudden shifting towards the dishes.

A light chuckle left his throat, making her turn towards him. "What happened?" she asked innocently.

He shook his head and kissed her cheek. "Only you, Stell. Only you," he whispered inaudibly while shifting her slightly on his lap, so they can both get comfortable.

---

~ The Same Night - 11:30 PM ~

Brandon sat against the headboard of the bed with Stella laying her head on his lap. "You're such a freaking cheater," she whined sadly.

He laughed while looking down on her. "Prove it," he smirked.

They were both playing Monopoly on Stella's phone. It was one of Stella's favorite games and she had initially forced him to play. The game wasn't 'manly' enough for him but after Stella's consistent pleading, he gave in. And Stella wished she hadn't because so far, she didn't have any luck so far in winning.

"How come you're so good at it if you've never played it?!" Stella snapped while giving the phone to him to throw the dice.

"I never said I didn't play it before," he smirked while leaning down to place a chaste kiss on her lips. Stella dropped the phone on her chest as the contact deepened. He broke off suddenly and handed Stella the phone.

Stella shook off her daze before glancing at the phone. She gasped when she saw herself in a mortgage situation. "THIS! HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE?!" she screamed while he started to roar stupidly with laughter. "YOU!" she screeched while shooting up and straddling his lap. "What the hell did you do?!"

He winked. "I kissed you."

She blushed momentarily before slapping herself to reality. "That won't work," she cut him off firmly.

"Won't it?" he whispered while taking the phone from her and tossing it elsewhere.

"No. You're completely cheating!" she frowned. "This is so unfair," she snapped while poking his chest. "Stop cheating!"

"Make me," he smirked.

Chuckling at her pout, he shifted a little. She pushed him back and heard a low grunt escape his lips. "Where do you think you're going?" she demanded while wiggling a pointy finger at him.

"The restroom," he smirked. "Wanna join?"

"N-N-No!" she blushed a vibrant crimson as she scrambled off of him quickly and rolled over to the side. He laughed at how adorably endearing she was before standing up from the bed. Stella watched him with a small blush on her face as she watched him go to the restroom. She sat impatiently as she waited for him to come out. This was honestly the best birthday she could ever ask for.

A vibrating phone interrupted her lovesick grin as she turned towards the nightstand. Curiously, she crawled over to it only to see Brandon's phone ringing silently. "Brand, you have a-" Stella started to announce but stopped when she saw the caller ID being displayed as Lisa.

Lisa? Who the heck is she? Stella frowned. She eyed the time and saw that it was quarter past eleven. Friend or not, the timing was way too intimate to be calling at this time of hour.

Frowning still, Stella picked up the phone and held it against her ear. A loud, feminine giggle erupted from the other end.

"Brandonnnnnnn! Oh my god! I'm soooo glad you picked it up!" Lisa squealed and shouted out of pure joy that Stella had to keep the phone away from her ear to recover from a possible deaf ear attack.

Keeping herself silent and mum, the young blonde listened.

"Oh my godddd! When you get your ass here, we're sooooo going for some drinks, darling!" Lisa laughed into the phone. "I love you! I love you sooo much!"

WHAT?! Stella's heart stopped. She felt the color draining her face as her fingers shook anxiously. Since when did Brandon drink?! As far as the blonde knew, Brandon most definitely did not drink or smoke. He attended parties, of course, but was careful enough to never taste a sip of alcohol. And...Stella's eyes started to water when she heard the confession by 'Lisa'.

"I love you! I love you sooo much!"

She refused. She absolutely refused to believe that Brandon could possibly be cheating on her with that...TRAMP! Hot, liquid jealousy burned through her veins as Stella started to shake with rage at the mere idea.

"Brandon, you there-?"

"LISTEN HERE, YOU LITTLE TRAMP! I don't care who you are, but if you call him again, I swear I'll kill you!" Stella screeched into the phone with anger. She momentarily stopped when she saw Brandon hurried run into the room with sheer confusion and concern in his eyes. Why, that little double-crossing, cheating bastard!

"Wait-" Lisa started but the line went quickly dead.

Stella cut the phone off instantly and tossed it somewhere on the bed. Brandon's eyes narrowed questioningly as he watched Stella stand up and cross her arms. The blonde tapped her foot impatiently but what rattled him the most was the ferocious look on her face. "YOU...!" she yelled. "YOU LYING BASTARD!" she screamed angrily.

His eyes widened as his lips parted in shock. "Excuse me?"

"You're a liar! You're a cheater! And you're a big-time, cheating fraud!" she yelled angrily as body shook violently from hurt. He fell speechless for a few moments as he stood there like a complete stone statue. He wondered what in the world happened when his eyes snapped towards the shiny black device resting innocently on the mattress.

Stella's eyes started to water. But she refused, she absolutely refused to let him see her cry. She growled angrily as she started to stomp out of the room. Just as she passed by him, she gasped as a hand shot up to grasp her arm tightly. She winced in pain and turned around.

Brandon looked at her calmly for a deep moment before speaking. "What the f*ck do you think you think you're doing?" he asked in a deathly calm voice that made her gasp and sent violent shivers running up and down her spine. She gasped momentarily because she never heard Brandon...curse. Not once. Her eyes dimmed because she couldn't even begin to register the possibility that...he might be screwing someone else behind her back.

"LET. ME. GO," Stella seethed angrily while using her free arm to break loose from his tight grip.

He eyed the phone for a second although he didn't quite understand what happened. Obviously, someone made a call that was meant for him and she answered it. Stella suddenly yelped in surprise when Brandon hurled her across the room and threw her on the bed. He watched her bounce slightly as she clutched her disoriented head with a surprised moan. Walking backwards, he locked the bedroom door and bolted it shut before calmly walking towards the bed.

Stella slowly got up and scrambled off the bed from the opposite side. "What do you think you're doing?!" she yelled.

He breathed as he took his phone. "If I see you take another step towards that door, you'll regret it," he warned her seriously as his eyes darkened angrily as well. Stella's feet rooted themselves into the floor temporarily. Even though she knew Brandon for a long time now, he can still be pretty scary.

Brandon narrowed his eyes as he locked her with his petrifying gaze. He clenched his jaw and coiled his hand into a slightly shaking fist before glancing down at his phone. His fingers swiped over to the call log. His eyes widened when he saw none other than Lisa who called him last.

He recalled Stella's words. Words that he heard anyway.

"...YOU LITTLE TRAMP! I don't care who you are, but if you call him again, I swear I'll kill you!"

He pursed his lips tightly as his eyes narrowed dangerously. "You did not just f*cking say that," he hissed angrily as his eyes snapped back into hers. A cold shiver ran down Stella's spine when she saw the hateful look a certain someone was giving her. She didn't know how to explain or release the unquenchable rage she felt in the pits of her heart.

Finding her silent, he growled as he dialed his secretary back. Please pick up, he closed his eyes as he prayed. He exhaled an immense sigh of relief when Lisa did pick up in the fifth ring.

Biting her lip tightly, Stella watched him sigh in relief. His anger temporarily dimmed as he voiced a gentle hello into the phone. He seemed to be listening quietly as Lisa spoke.

He had no idea how his actions literally tore Stella apart. His next word, additionally, jolted her to her core.

"Lisa...I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry on her behalf-" he started with strain in his voice.

Tears freely fell from her cheeks. She has had enough of this. She has heard enough. She didn't have to hear him plea for that girl to forgive him. She didn't deserve this. She didn't deserve someone who doesn't respect the minimum concepts of loyalty, faith, and trust.

Having heard enough, Stella's feet turned. She didn't deserve to be stood up like she was some sort of a criminal. She covered her mouth with her hand as she swiftly walked towards the door. Her vision grew blurry as tears clouded over her lashes. Choking on a helpless sob, she touched the knob to turn it but not before hearing thunderous footsteps behind her. Paying no heed, she shifted the knob only to stop when Brandon grabbed her wrist almost painfully.

"STOP!" Stella yelled. "Let me gommmph!"

She felt herself being slammed against the door. A hand clasped tightly around her mouth as she struggled to break loose.

"Lisa...can you give me a few minutes to call you back?" Brandon asked calmly, although his face was nowhere near calm. He stayed silent for a minute before speaking. "Thank you."

Stella squirmed and thrashed against his hold but to no avail. Brandon's eyes glowered as he tossed the phone in his pocket. He withdrew his hand from her mouth and listened to her scream again. "Are you insane?! What did you think you were doing?!" Stella yelled teary-eyed.

He remained silent. "Are you done? Can I speak now?" he asked calmly.

"No. You can go and be with that girl! Clearly, she needs a hell of a lot more comforting!" Stella yelled while tears fell rapidly down her cheeks. Unable to stand his presence, Stella turned around again to leave. She cried out when he turned her towards him again.

"You're not leaving here until I say so," he hissed as his eyes flashed red.

"No!" Stella screamed while attempting to push him. He caught her off-guard when he grasped her arms and slammed them to either side of her head. "No, let me go!" the blonde cried while attempting to push him away.

She choked helplessly on her own sobs. "Let me goooo!" she cried again, trying harder each time.

"ENOUGH!" Brandon suddenly yelled that made her go pale and scared immediately. His deep voice boomed off the walls and vibrated through her chest. Her eyes clouded with terror and fright as her body shook with fear. She stared at him as color drained from her face.

Finding her finally silent, he stared at her with narrowed slits. "What the hell is wrong with you?!" he asked her seriously.

Stella's eyes grew blurry. She was unable to drown the lump that choked her and she was unable to voice her thoughts. She felt helpless and grief-stricken all over again. The blonde bit her lip, trying to repress the sob that threatened to fly free. Unable to resist, a choked sob left her quivering lips as she started to cry. Stella sobbed with a broken heart while looking at the floor.

Brandon's grip slowly loosened until he finally let go of her. She started to cry helplessly that it scared him. It scared him a lot. She cried into her hands, not knowing what to do. She felt like this was happening all over again. She felt alone and despair...again.

"Stella," he called her name while grabbing her shoulders. But she didn't seem to be hearing anything.

"STELLA," he said again with an edge to his tone this time. Nope. Not effective.

"STELLA!" he yelled and she stopped her grieving fest. Muffled cries left her body but she didn't dare look at him. "Look at me," he commanded.

She didn't dare to. She didn't have the strength or the courage to do this anymore. She gasped when she felt him grasp her chin forcefully and turn her crest-fallen face towards him. "I said...LOOK. AT. ME," he snapped.

Shakily, she turned towards him although the tears didn't stop.

"Why are you crying?" he asked with narrowed eyes.

She sniffled. He had the gall to ask her that? HE REALLY JUST ASKED HER THAT?! "Because of what you did!"

Unfazed by her agitated outburst, he replied calmly again. "What is it that you think I did?"

"You're cheating on me!"

He grabbed her hair tightly, not painfully, and pulled her towards him. "Based on what?!" he hissed.

"...that bimbo," Stella muttered bitterly, not even bothering to apologize.

"She's not a bimbo. Her name is Lisa," Brandon defended his friend. Stella's face crumbled to dust at his words.

"Fine," she whispered in agony.

"You're such a..." he started but trailed off in exasperation.

Stella's face grew hot with rampantly pouring tears. She pushed his hands away. "No, no, finish that sentence!" she yelled, making him turn towards her in curiosity. "I'm such a bitch, aren't I?! I'm such a mean and manipulating little bitch who does nothing but get in your way!" she rambled angrily while looking away from him in hurt.

She failed to notice at how his eyes softened at that. Facing away from him, she hugged herself as she cried into her hands.

Brandon shook his head and ignored how each of her cries drove multiple stakes through him. He was angry too. He was hurt too. She can't just accuse him of cheating based on a phone call. She can't do that. She accused him of not showing loyalty towards her. But, how is he supposed to bear it when she didn't show the slightest bit of trust towards him?

He was actually going to call her an idiot. Most definitely not a bitch.

Stella gasped when his arms wounded gently, but firmly, around her. She wanted to push him away. She wanted for him to leave her the hell alone. But she was unable to do any of that. Finding her still, he took advantage of it and gently turned her towards him.

"Stella?" he tenderly spoke, hoping that his voice will get through to her.

"I'm not sorry that I answered your stupid phone!" she snapped.

"You have no reason to be," he said, making her turn towards him. More tears swarmed over her face as she saw how soft and loving his eyes were. The same eyes that she fell in love with.

"I wasn't mad that you answered my phone," he said.

"Then what!" she snapped.

"Don't you know me? I've never lied to you till date. I've never hid things from you," he stated. "Don't you know me? If I had a problem with you...Stella, I'd break it off with you. I don't have to lie my way to cheat on you with Lisa. I'm more than capable of breaking up with you."

"Well then, go right ahead! Who is stopping you?!" she stubbornly hissed.

Hurt laced across his eyes. "...Just the other day...you told me that you loved me more than anyone else in this world. I can see now that...it's a complete lie," he sadly whispered, earning a gasp from her. His arms dropped to his sides as he let her go.

"I wasn't lying to you!" she cried. "Don't you dare insult me by saying that!"

He hollowly laughed. "Oh. So, I'm not allowed to insult but you're allowed to do just the same?"

"W-What?"

"I'm not cheating on you. I never have and I never will," he admitted. "But I can't prove it. Even if I can, clearly, you're not in a state to believe me."

Tears streamed down her cheeks. "Why are you making me the villain around here? You're acting as if this is my fault."

"It is. It certainly is. You should've asked me directly before jumping straight to conclusions," he explained with hurt.

"..." Stella fell speechless. Her eyes shimmered brightly with waterworks. Her face turned sticky with the dried, salty tears. "So...it's my fault?" she whispered.

"I know what Lisa said. She had no idea that it would be you on the other side. Stella, Lisa is my secretary at work. She was talking about a deal that we all finalized just today," he explained with strain in his voice.

Her eyes widened. "W-What?" she whispered in shock. That girl most definitely did not talk like a freaking secretary.

"A deal with a client went extremely well. We won a contract. She freaked out about that. She admitted to loving me as a friend. Nothing more," he said while rubbing his forehead, not knowing why he was explaining all this to a deaf ear.

"She didn't speak like a freaking secretary. And she most definitely didn't call like that either," Stella defended herself. It's not her fault if that girl spoke like a long lost lover.

"That's because she's a friend as well. Which you would've known if you had asked instead of threatening to kill her and trying to strangle me," he said.

Stella's eyes started to water again at his accusing tone. "...I'm not apologizing to her," she whispered. "If you want to break up, then...so be it," Stella whispered painfully before moving past him.

She winced when he gently grabbed her wrist again. "Are you deaf with everything I tell you?" he huffed in annoyance.

Stella started to cry out of shame. He gently lifted her face. "Look at me," he said softly. She obeyed him while slowly biting her lip.

Without another word, Stella sniffled a gasp when he lunged towards her and pulled her into a tight embrace. Her face was instantly buried into his warm and broad chest. His arms held her tightly against him. She cried into his arms as he slowly rocked her. "Shh, stop crying, sunshine," he gently murmured against her cheek. Sunshine. Stella closed her eyes at his favorite nickname for her. "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!" she sobbed into his shirt. Her streaming tears wet his shirt but he didn't care.

"I know what she exactly said. I can understand how you could've misunderstood. But I promise you, Lisa is just a good friend. Nothing more, sweetheart," he gently voiced in her ear. Stella sniffled and nodded. She blushed a little when he called her a sweetheart. Ahh. Another cute nickname that she instantly fell in love with.

"Please don't break up with me," the blonde pleaded with a sob.

He pulled back from her and she whimpered at the sudden loss of contact. "I can never do that," he whispered.

"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry! I'm so so sorry!" she repeated like a broken record and pleaded for him to forgive her.

"Shhh. It's fine. Just don't cry anymore and you're forgiven," he winked at her comfortingly. Stella bit her lip when he kissed her cheek. How could he be so understanding? she wondered. She practically behaved like an uncontrollable, savage little beast and he was calm (scary calm, but still) throughout the whole ordeal. What if it had been her? What if he had accused her instead of the other way around? She probably would've felt like dying if he questioned her fidelity towards him.

"I'm...I'm so sorry," she whispered, her voice laced with thick and incredible guilt.

"There is one thing you can do for me to forgive you," he said.

"Anything," she spoke with her lips in a determined line.

"Forgive yourself first," he whispered while gently running his fingers through her hair.

"I...I c-can't," she whispered while looking away, unable to face him anymore. She just insulted their love. She just insulted him. She just hurt him despite vowing to never do that.

"Then I can't forgive you either," he said with a twinge of playfulness in his voice to cheer her up. He saw how badly she seemed to beating herself over this. "Sunshine...mistakes happen. Would you forgive me if it was the other way around? If I had wrongfully accused you, would you have eventually forgiven me?" he asked.

Stella nodded slowly. "Of course I would have! Why won't I-?!"

"Then why won't I?" he asked.

She fell speechless for a brief moment. She didn't know what she did to deserve such an amazing man. Despite her constant mistakes, he somehow found a way and willed himself to comfort her somehow. Even if he wasn't at fault here...even if she's the biggest screw up here...he looked past all of it and didn't make her feel like a major screw up.

"Thank you," she sniffling while managing to smile through her tears.

"For future reference, you're too important to me, Stell. There's no damn way that I'm letting you go," he spoke. "Not even for Lisa," he smirked.

Laughing through her tears, Stella playfully hit his chest. She fell silent after a few moments as she continued to dreamily stare at him. She must look like a total mess right now but neither of them cared. He held her against him while eyeing his phone. "Did anyone else call?" he asked.

"No," Stella spoke as he nodded. She let her eyes run all over his handsome face slowly, memorizing and etching each detail into her memory. She wanted to remember this moment. She nearly ruined what they had, but for a magical reason, their relationship hadn't gone to dust.

Finding her still and barely moving, he nudged her. "Movie?" he asked her, silently telling her to forget about the last twenty minutes.

She slowly nodded as a small, sad sigh escaped her lips. Tears glazed over her eyes again. She called him a liar, cheater, and fraud. She accused him of cheating even though he admitted to loving her just a few minutes ago.

He sighed and put his phone away. His arm traveled up to cup a side of her face. "Let it go already," he spoke against her cheek. "It's no big deal."

"Yes, it is," she replied with a huge lump in her throat.

"...if it makes you feel better, I wouldn't have reacted any differently."

"You're just saying that to make me feel better," she said.

"Stell...if a girl told me that she loved me over the phone at this time of night and you weren't bothered by it, I'd have some serious doubts about our relationship," he said. Stella couldn't help but laugh at his mock bitterness.

"That's my girl," he chuckled. "No offense, but I would've killed that bastard of your ex-boyfriend if he had called you at near midnight. Just saying"

Stella started to laugh into his chest and agreed with him. He probably would've done that. The blonde looked up at him and she was met with the same warm, brown eyes she fell in love with. "Go and wash your face, okay?" he told her gently before letting her free and ushering her to the bathroom.

After he let her go, Stella finally felt at peace. Now looking back at it, she felt absolutely silly and horrible. She turned the tap on and gently slapped the lukewarm water against her sticky, sweaty face. "Where's the soap?" she wondered out loud while curiously looking around. She smiled at seeing a fresh bar of soap perched on the shelf in the spacious shower stall. Stella slipped inside of the tub and reached for it. She washed her face slowly and calmly breathed to cool her irregularly pulsing nerves.

When she was done, she reached for a towel on the rack. She stretched a little too far and her foot gave away. Stella screamed in fright when she felt herself falling in the shower tub. Her back collided against the wall and she slipped to the floor. Getting a hold of her senses, she distinctively heard Brandon yell out her name. "Are you kidding me?" she mumbled to herself at her clumsiness to fall inside of a freaking shower. She frowned at the slightly wet clothes. She stood up but before accidentally setting off the shower tap.

Stella squealed and backed up against the wall. "Ahh!" she squeaked at the cold water enough to cause a pneumonia attack. "Make it stop, make it stop, make it stop!" she yelled in panic.

Brandon entered the bathroom in panic and saw the water wetting her. His eyes widened as he instantly raced over and slipped inside of the shower stall. "Stella, what the hell?!" he yelled before using his body to shield her against the cold water. His jaw slightly clenched as he turned the tap off.

"I'm sorry, o-okay?!" she shivered. He face-palmed at her clumsy antics. "I've never showered every two hours, you know that?!" he muttered in annoyance. She glanced at the clothes he gave her. They weren't completely wet, thank the heavens for that. She bit her lip as she felt a little under-dressed at the moment. She wasn't wearing any inner wear, considering she drenched herself earlier.

"You okay?" he asked while nearing her slowly. She nodded as he slowly pulled her into his arms while helping her out. They both went back into the bedroom.

"You can't use the restroom without causing yourself a catastrophe?!" he smirked while watching her stand a little stiffly. She was trying her best to not let the wet parts of the shirt touch her bare body underneath. "Accidents happen," she poked his chest.

Stella frowned when she heard the thunder loudly roar up in the sky. Lightning bolts flashed across the sky and occasionally illuminated the room with vibrant, fluorescent flashes. She hugged herself and moved towards the window. "Think the power's gonna go?" she asked softly. He moved behind her and looked up as well. "Maybe," he answered.

"What about the tent and the grill?" Stella asked as she turned to him.

"They're not ours," he told her while placing his hands into his pockets. He pulled the curtains just a little as he continued to gaze outside absentmindedly.

Stella, however, glanced deeply into his eyes. So beautiful, she thought. His eyes were a distinguishing brown with twinges of black and dark gold streaks surrounding the pupils. His lips were soft and were always contrasting cool against hers. She blinked and blushed a few times. She kissed those lips countless amount of times and there was no end to the number of times she fantasized about them shamelessly. Every time they kissed, he left her in a stupendous torpor. His high cheekbones and strong jawline were some of his other features that were worth dying for. She reached up and brushed the soft, dark brown strands that glazed over his eyes seductively, giving him the bad boy image that girls went gaga over.

Dark clouds ravaged the once clear skies as rain continued pelting against the windows faster and with much force. He silently wondered when this'll clear up.

He turned his attention from the weather to her and was momentarily taken aback by the intense gaze she was eyeing him with. His gaze soon mimicked hers and they were both locked in a match. Stella's face started to crumble and weaken as she found her body surrendering and giving in to him.

Unable to resist any further, she gave in. She washed away all of her insecurities and doubts before standing up on her tip-toes to close the gap between their lips. She didn't want to fight this anymore. She had been craving for him ever since she admitted to herself that she loved him. She didn't even realize how much he consumed her thoughts until he showed up earlier this evening. Brandon stiffened slightly in shock for a moment, mostly due to her being overwhelmingly passionate at the moment, before slowly closing his eyes as his arms traveled out of his pockets and wrapped themselves tightly around her body. Stella couldn't help but elicit a gasp when he kissed her harder and bit her lower lip softly. She opened her lips and gave him the permission as their tongues battled for dominance.

Stella grabbed onto his shoulders as they continued to kiss without taking even a momentary pant for air. She pressed her body tightly against his until there was no space between them anymore. She found herself slowly walking backwards. He paced forward to keep the distance between them minimal until they both eventually fell back on the soft mattress.

Stella let out a shuddering moan as his lips left hers and nuzzled deeply into her collarbone. "B-Bran..don..." she gasped breathlessly. He smiled against her skin, loving the way she spoke his name. His lips continued to touch, tease, and taste her as she shivered and continued to utter his name in short, panting gasps. She pulled him towards her tightly and fumbled with the buttons of his shirt. His eyes slowly opened as he pulled back.

He stared at her and silently asked if she was sure that she wanted to do this. She glanced at him with thirst-filled eyes and let out a few labored breaths before finding her voice. "I want you..." she breathed hoarsely. His lips parted open with a fondness as he responded by crashing his lips against hers once more. Smiling against him, she continued to pry open his buttons when he suddenly stopped her movements again by placing a firm palm over her hands.

She opened her eyes once more, fearing rejection this time. He looked at her with an apology. "Sunshine, I can't. You...you have to be protected," he breathed while uttering a steam of curses under his breath which were highly inappropriate for human ears. Of all the times she chooses to give in, she had to choose a time where he couldn't get any protection! "I don't care," she snapped while pulling him towards her again. He smirked, "I enjoy a feisty girlfriend, believe me, but I care. I'm not getting you pregnant."

Stella's eyes suddenly lit up. "Wait! I have a packet in my purse!"

His eyes widened greatly in surprised as he growled at her revelation. "WHAT THE F*CK?!" he cursed angrily. He was really not the type to curse, but...this was too much for him to handle without notice.

"Um..." she bit her lip nervously.

"Stella, you have two seconds to start explaining," he growled angrily while tightening his grip on her waist.

"Um...I...I brought them because Bloom dared me once," she uttered shyly. "...It was for us..." she looked away with a deep crimson-hued blush on her face.

He raised an amused eyebrow. "Dammit, sunshine," he laughed against her cheek.

"Brandon...please..." she tugged him closer and pleaded him.

"Isn't someone feeling a little impatient tonight?" he teased her further, frustrating her even more.

"Damn you, Shields!" she cursed.

He laughed before grabbing her purse from the nightstand and pulling out a packet before hovering over her again. The lights suddenly flickered and dimmed a bit, igniting their interrupted passion once again. "Do you have any idea how long I've wanted this?" he whispered hotly into her ear.

"I would rather you just get on with it instead of telling me how long you've wanted it," Stella muttered stubbornly. A deep, rich laugh left his throat once again. He was interrupted by her lips. He seized her waist once more and tightly arched her body toward his. His fingers buried themselves into her side braid. He slowly undid her braid, turning it into messy strands on the way.

Stella quickly pried the buttons of his shirt open and impatiently tugged on it to toss it away. He glanced at her testy attempts and stopped his movements temporarily to take his shirt off. He chucked the fabric aside before finding her lips again. She moaned against his demanding mouth as she ran her hands up and down his strongly built chest. His fingers tugged the braid loose. Her hair tumbled into luscious, honey-colored curls.

"Stella..." he breathed while his fingers slipped inside of her shirt. Stella gasped as his hands traveled up slowly. She opened her eyes in a flash, feeling insecure and scared. "Brandon...wait," she panted. He immediately stopped and looked at her. "Did I hurt you?" he asked in concern while kissing her softly this time. She shook her head. "...I'm...I'm..." she blushed shyly. "I've never..." she bit her lip, feeling too timid to say the words. He smiled at her stammering. She'll never cease to amaze him and he can never get over how incredibly beautiful she was. "You're a virgin," he spoke against her forehead, enjoying the way she trembled against him. She blushed and nodded. "I'll be gentle, okay? Tell me to stop at any time," he told her sincerely while meaning every word.

She suddenly groaned in pleasure when he nibbled against her neck, marking her as his. A gasp left her when he pulled on her shirt with a firm tug, making the buttons pop open all at once. Stella moaned loudly when he caressed her breasts with his fingers and lips. Her nails dug into his back, scraping across his skin as she felt the unstable urge to release grow stronger. She tugged at his belt while his hands roamed and touched every inch of her, leaving nothing untouched or left kissed.

His invasive fingers tugged at the final fabric that separated them both. He undid the tie at her pants slowly before pulling it down her long legs and throwing it aside where it joined the rest of their clothes unceremoniously. He pulled back momentarily to take a good look at her as she lay there underneath naked. She blushed shyly as he watched her with darkened eyes. "I'll never get over how gorgeous you are, Stella," he breathed while kissing her shoulder. "Brandon...please..." she panted breathlessly as she arched her body towards his own and begged for release. She tugged at his pants. Noting her struggling attempts, he smirked and took it off himself before undoing his boxers as well. Stella's eyes widened as she gasped at how...big he was. Biting her lip, she glanced at him nervously as he slipped on the condom. He turned towards her and smirked at her staring. Caught red-handed, Stella blushed profusely. "You're staring, baby," he whispered against her lips.

"Brandon..." she whispered shakily. She was scared and terrified at the thought of the pain that was soon to come.

He ran his fingers through her hair and hovered his lips near her ear. "Tell me to stop and I will," he coaxed her gently that she found her worries slipping away. "No, don't," she told him almost pleadingly. He positioned himself on top and at her entrance. "You sure?" he asked. She nodded, unable to voice through her sensations. Keeping his eyes open, he slowly slipped inside of her. He didn't want to rush anything; it's her first time and he sure as hell wasn't going to cause her pain. He stopped suddenly when Stella cried out in pain. She bit her lip harshly and closed her eyes tightly shut. She made fist folds of the sheets underneath her as she panted breathlessly. He could see how much she's enduring and it nearly killed him to see her like that. He moved out of her immediately unable to watch her in pain any longer.

"No, don't," she gasped as she tightened her legs around him. "Just...just let me catch my breath," she breathed.

Slowly, she moved her hips against his. Encouraged by her moans, he moved inside of her, increasing his pace with each thrust. It felt so good to be inside of her. Stella moaned loudly with each thrust. "Brandon!" she screamed in pleasure as his fingers worked wonders around her naked flesh. She dug her nails into his shoulders as he thrusted in and out of her rapidly and deeply each time. "Dammit, Stella!" he groaned in pleasure while clenching his jaw tightly and increasing the pace of his thrusts. She held onto him for dear life as they made love to each other.

The thunder roared above but it was unheard by the two young adults. Brandon knew that he wanted to make love someday to Stella, but he never imagined a paradise like this. Her movements matched the pace of his thrusts as he moved deeper inside of her. He watched sweat glisten on her forehead and could tell that she was close. "Oh God!" the blonde cried in ragged breaths of pleasure as she arched her body completely towards him. She screamed his name, unable to handle the bursts of intense pleasure that suddenly enveloped her body. Brandon felt her insides convulse against him as he too tensed and came inside of her with his final thrust. Colors flashed in his eyes as he felt the after effects of the release. They didn't move for a few moments, both feeling the need to catch their breaths. Stella panted and fell back on the bed as small beads of sweat trickled down her forehead.

Brandon slowly moved out of her and threw the condom away. He fell beside her on the mattress a few seconds later. Stella slowly scooted over to him and collapsed on top of him. He pulled the covers over both of them before moving to wrap his arms around her. "That was...incredible," he said breathlessly against her forehead as he just ran through the images again. He still couldn't believe that they just...made love. She hummed in response while blushing softly against his chest.

"Are you okay?" he asked her gently while turning towards her. She looked tired. But Stella nodded with a happy little blush on her beautiful face. "Sure?" he asked in concern while glancing deeply into her eyes. He didn't want her to admit into anything for his sake.

"I'll admit...that's not...that's not how I imagined my first time," Stella blushed a vibrant crimson, unable to believe that...they just made love. Her heart exploded in sheer happiness. Even though it was spontaneous and totally unplanned, she didn't regret the choice. She was glad that her virginity was taken away by him and no one else.

"Then how?" he asked curiously.

"...Oh snap. I should've waited till your birthday next month," she started to whine. "Now, I have nothing in mind."

A deep chuckle rumbled against his chest. Smirking, he kissed her chastely before speaking. "Believe me, I love early birthday presents," he whispered, making her blush. "Especially like these," he finished with a smirk, eliciting another heartwarming blush from her.

"Um...do you...you don't regret this, right?" she asked him while fidgeting with her fingers nervously. She felt anxiety bubble in her chest already. He drew her closer and gently held her against him. "Did you go deaf when I told you I've wanted you for a long time now?" he said, sounding annoyed. "Really?" she asked with her eyes widening.

He smirked. "Guess you were too busy thinking about raping me to listen."

Stella scoffed as a sharp gasp left her. "I was not!" she hollered.

"Yeah, right," he chuckled.

"Be honest. Did you really mean what you said?" she asked curiously.

He lay to the side, using his elbow to prop him up. He paused for a moment and thought. "Especially since...last Christmas," he said.

Her eyes widened. Really? A deep blush coated her cheeks as she snuggled up to his chest. "I love you, Brand," she mumbled against him. She let out soft coos of pleasure as her body started to tingle from the after effects of the mind-blowing intimacy with him. Certain inexplicable parts of her started to ache but it was the kind of dull pain that was also pleasurable. Just when she thought she couldn't be any more happier, his next words sent her into a dreamy land as his heartbeat lulled to a peaceful sleep.

"I love you more, Stell..." he whispered back while pulling the covers over their heads and drowning out the thundering noises outside.

---

~ 7:30 AM ~

Breathing steadily, the next morning, Brandon opened his eyes with a relaxed yawn. He felt oddly at ease and peace as he rested against the pillow. Rubbing his eyes lazily, he moved to get up only to be hindered by the blonde sleeping peacefully in his arms. At the sight of her, the brunette couldn't help but fall back in the bed once more. He watched her sleep with a tenderness in his eyes. His eyes clouded over with happiness as he recalled the previous night's intimate activities. He still couldn't believe that they had sex. It happened so suddenly and so spontaneously. Maybe it was the weather or the cloudy atmosphere that propelled to the decision, but nonetheless...he can't complain about it. She slept in content with her head nuzzled into his chest and her bare body slumped against his.

Smiling down at her, he raised his fingers to gently untangle her heavily, messy blonde strands. He looked outside through the gaps in the curtains and continued to grin when he saw that it was still raining. The clouds were still that perfect shade of cocktail blue as they moved about the sky. Turning towards her again, he leaned over and kissed her forehead before falling back relaxing. How perfect...he thought. Life was perfect. He didn't want or need anything else as long as he had her by his side. He chuckled at how the heated argument from yesterday was now a distant memory and was barely significant. After yesterday, he felt as if he's the one and only person she ever trusted. Their relationship clearly escalated to another level and it's not just the intimacy. The intimacy wasn't rushed or in the heat of the moment by reckless teenagers. Instead, it was built up by trust and faith between two mature adults.

Sighing in bliss, he continued combing her golden blonde hair with his fingers. He loved her hair. She glowed ethereally as the morning light lit it up and gave her mane a lustrous sheen. After a few moments, Stella started to stir. Her eyes opened slowly as she dumbly stared at the first thing she saw in confusion. She realized that it was Brandon's chest before blushing a little and looking around her. "Did you sleep well?" his deep voice bellowed softly as he watched her wake up. She turned to him and smiled sleepily. "Yeah...you...?" she yawned while looking just about ready to close her eyes again. "For how long have been watching me like that?"

He smiled and simply held her silently. Not nearly long enough.

"Brand...I'm hungry," she mumbled. He started to laugh. "That's the first thing you're gonna say to me?" he asked with an amused eyebrow while gently stroking her bare waist.

She giggled. "What can I say? You're an exceptional cook," she yawned sleepily. "Please...?" she chimed with closed eyes.

"Thirty minutes," he promised before kissing her cheek and gently pushing her aside. Stella clutched the pillow and closed her eyes while he went to prepare breakfast for both of them.

---

After lazily goofing around the bed, Stella sat up. As she did so, she couldn't help but bite her lip as dull aches hit her body. She blushed at the new sensations and slowly got up from the bed. She looked around for the clothes she wore last night, only for her eyes to widen when she realized that they were in no state to be worn again. Blushing, she pushed the covers away and quickly hopped to the bathroom. She did her daily routine before hopping into the shower. The warm water soothed her, but she couldn't help but moan at the pain that emerged in different parts of her body, especially from between her legs. She bit her lip at the soreness she felt.

When she finished showering, she turned the tap off and grabbed the nearest towel on the rack. Wrapping it around her body, she yawned. She looked at the mirror only to blush softly. There were multiple marks and hickeys along the sides of her neck. Slowly, she reached up to touch them and turned red as a result. Blushing to herself, she turned around to grab her clothes only to freeze instantly when she realized that she didn't bring any. Oh great...she muttered in annoyance while moving towards the bedroom. She opened the door and instantly went to Brandon's suitcase that was perched in a lone corner. Taking out a comfortable hoodie and shorts, she quickly put them on before throwing in her laundry.

Stella walked back towards the bed and sat on it with a timid blush on her face. She couldn't help but blush a million times as a thousand thoughts raced over her mind. All she could think of was...wow. She didn't imagine her first time to be so...so great and almost painless. Actually, it was extremely painful at first but the pain soon subsided, thanks to Brandon's patience. She held out her hands and smiled to herself, resembling no less than a blushing bride as she bit her lip softly. She shakily brought her fingers to her lips, still feeling the tingles from where Brandon kissed her last night. Whenever she moved, she couldn't help but feel the tingles in that certain area.

Smiling to herself, she stood up and moved towards the bed to organize it a little. They got a little too carried away and the poor bed sheet and blankets paid the price for it. She laughed to herself at that.

She moved the blankets to fold them only for her to drop them in shock. Her fingers shook as she covered her mouth in shock, trying not to scream out of surprise. A little color drained from her face when she saw a very much stained white bed sheet. Dried blood imbrued the once pristine sheets as Stella stood there for a few moments, feeling beyond embarrassed. She was just glad that she had seen this stain first. Otherwise...God help her.

"Stell! You awake yet?!"

Stella gasped when she heard his deep voice emit from the living room. She hurriedly tossed the blankets on the floor before ripping the sheets away from the mattress. Thankfully, the mattress had a translucent, plastic covering that prevented any possible stains.

"I'm up!" Stella yelled back when she heard his footsteps down the hallway. She took the bed sheet before making a run for it to the bathroom. She slammed the door shut just as Brandon entered the room. "Stel? You okay?!" he called out in concern.

"Y-Yes! Can't a girl get some privacy?!" she fired back as she placed the cloth under the sink to wash the blood away in hot water.

"What's there to hide when I've pretty much seen everything?!" he rolled his eyes in annoyance with a smirk playing on his lips while standing just outside the door. Stella blushed at his words before scrubbing the stain off. When she scrubbed enough with soap, she washed her hands with a hand soap. Grimacing, she tossed the sheets in the washing machine before adding lots of powder and setting it on.

"What the hell are you doing inside?!" he asked while knocking on the door.

"What does anyone do in a bathroom?!" she yelled back in annoyance at his clear lack of respect for some privacy. Sighing in relief, she moved towards the door. Opening it with a snap, he looked at her stunned for a second. Stella huffed before opening the door fully and stepping outside.

She yelped when he grabbed her arm and pulled her towards him. "Are you okay?" he asked in concern.

"Just great," she grinned while giving him a thumbs up.

"Well...gosh, I would believe you except...you're the worst liar I've ever seen," he said while rolling his eyes.

"Gosh? Did you just say gosh?" Stella asked incredulously before bursting out laughing. Tossing her a 'are-you-kidding-me' look, he held her tighter. "I'm fine. Don't I look fine?" she asked.

"You look more than fine, actually," he chuckled near her ear. Her eyes widened at the double meaning suggestion she accidentally gave him and ended up with reddened cheeks. "But...what's bothering you?" he asked again.

"I said I'm fine. Why're you asking me so many times?" she asked while telling him to stop.

"Because you look like you've seen a ghost's shadow," he replied with a roll of his eyes.

"I'm fine," she grinned.

"Don't give me that," he said gently. "I know something's not right. You can tell me anything, Stell. You know that."

She bit her lip, knowing that she can't hide from him forever. Besides, it's not a big deal. It's perfectly normal and...hopefully, he'll understand it the same way. "Promise not to laugh?" she spoke almost child-like against his neck.

"Of course not, sunshine," he coaxed her gently, ignoring the way her lips gliding against his shoulder sent sparks flying off his spine. "I'd never laugh at you."

"It's um...when we..." she started but ended up stammering. "I told you I am a virgin. I was until yesterday anyway," she whispered with a blush into his shirt.

"I know," he smiled while holding her close. He actually liked that a lot. He loved the fact that he was able to turn her into a woman and that he was her first. But he didn't quite understand what she was getting to.

"Um...when we finished, I...um...I bled a little," she finished timidly.

His eyes widened. "You what?!" he yelled in shock, going rigid and stiff. His grip on her momentarily slackened as he registered her words in. She bled?! he thought wildly in panic, clearly not knowing that it was normal for some females. He pulled her back and shook her by the shoulders. "Why didn't you tell me to stop?!" he growled almost angrily. "I was clearly hurting you and..." he trailed off in pain as he released her with a shove and started pacing around the room.

"What? No, you didn't-"

Brandon raked a frenzy hand through his hair. "I can't believe that..." he closed his eyes in pain while looking at her with the deepest apology. "Stel...why? Why wouldn't you tell me?!" he asked in agony in almost a painful whisper. Stella's eyes widened in concern as she went over to him. He fell on the bed and sat there with his face buried in his hands.

"Hey, you didn't hurt me," she told him while kneeling in front of him. "Even if you had...I...I probably wouldn't have stopped you."

His eyes opened in a flash. "WHAT?! What the hell is that?! No, you sure as hell don't deserve that-"

"I'm just saying that because I love you. But I'm telling you that you didn't hurt me. I'm fine. See?" she smiled at him while moving closer to him. She didn't want him to think that he hurt her physically when actually, he was responsible for the best night of her young life. He gave her the best birthday present ever, worth more than anything in this world.

"Please don't beat yourself over it," she told him. "I don't regret what we did."

"Me neither. But I'm sorry," he whispered while attaching his forehead down on hers. "I'm so sorry."

"It's not your fault," she protested. "It's normal since it's my first time and you're overreacting for nothing. I was just embarrassed to tell you about the stained sheets."

"Huh?" he looked at her in confusion before looking at the bed. His eyes widened when she sheepishly admitted to throwing the sheets in the washing machine.

Sighing in relief, he gently cradled her head. "You're okay, right?" he asked her once more to be sure.

She nodded. He sighed in relief and hugged her. He didn't know what he'd do if he really did somehow...hurt her. He told himself every step of the way that it was her first time. It was always the girl who will face a pain during her first sex experience. Well, knowing that she's okay now was relieving.

"Breakfast?" she asked while peeping from his embrace to look at him.

A small smile burst forth his lips as he slowly stood up and nodded. And Stella couldn't help the grin that came about her face as she walked with him hand-in-hand. "Thank you," she whispered while hugging his torso and snuggling into him.

"For what?"

"For being the most amazing man I've ever met," she admitted shyly.

He chuckled and kissed her forehead. "Right back at you," he whispered as his lips traveled to hers greedily. Their kiss slowly deepened and turned passionate as their breakfast was soon forgotten as they tumbled and stumbled their way to the bedroom once more.

---

Many hours later...

~ The Same Evening - 5:00 PM ~

Stella looked at the time sadly. It won't be long till he leaves. She was thankful that her birthday was on a Saturday and that he stayed an extra day for her. "Hey, why the long face?" he asked gently. Stella sighed as she snuggled deeper into him and struggled not to cry already. "I don't want you to go," she started to sniffle.

"You'll see me again," he smiled, knowing that his next visit will probably be sooner than this one.

"When? When I graduate?!" Stella snapped. She thought for a moment and her eyes lit up when she remembered that his birthday was next month.

"Flora's wedding," he told her. "It's during your spring break."

She moaned softly as she continued to ache but she blushed at the tender pains. The after consequences were pleasant and soothing. So she can't say that she complained. "How about I massage you?" he smirked. Stella glared at his innocent smile. Too innocent.

"I doubt that's all you're gonna do," she said while slapping his chest.

"I never said it wasn't," he smirked while leaning in for another kiss. A hand slipped under the hoodie he gave her and gently squeezed her waist, eliciting a soft moan from her lips. She cooed in pleasure as her eyes drooped sleepily. It felt so good...His other hand held her close and slowly ran it through her loose hair. She melted into his arms as his hand started to massage her back.

She yawned sleepily from the hours of intimacy and couldn't keep her eyes open, despite wanting to so badly.

---

~ The Same Night - 8:30 PM ~

"Sunshine...?"

A gentle, yet firm, voice slowly shook the sleeping blonde awake. Stella sleepily opened her eyes, wondering what was happening.

"Stell...wake up," Brandon gently shook her awake. Stella gasped as she fully opened her eyes, realizing she fell asleep. She sat up straight and looked at him clearly. He was dressed in jeans and leather jacket with a tee underneath. Her heart dropped dishearteningly when she realized that she fell asleep instead of spending quality time with him. "You're...leaving...?" she asked sadly despite knowing the answer already.

He nodded while kissing her forehead. "I have to if I want to make it back before midnight," he answered her.

"Please don't go," she pleaded while crawling over to him.

He remained silent for a few moments, wondering he had to lose. Other than boring meetings and dozens of stacks of papers to go through, he had nothing. She, however, had something to miss. He'll be her biggest distraction if he stayed here. Despite wanting to stay, he knew he can't.

"Stell..." he breathed while holding her.

She looked away sadly. "I know, I know...you have to go," she whispered, feeling like she'll never see him again in a long time.

"We'll see each other again," he smiled. He'll definitely miss her this time. The last time she left, he was almost glad that she left. A few more days with her...he probably would've lost all restraint with her. But now...they had nothing else to hide and he felt a much more closer and deeper connection towards her.

"I'll drive up to see you," she grinned, encouraging herself that this wasn't a permanent goodbye.

"Don't you dare," he warned.

"I have to come for your birthday anyway," she happily smiled, ignoring the glare he was shooting her way.

"I'd feel better if I trusted you on roads," he rolled his eyes.

"Watch me drive. We have both our cars here."

He shook his head. "I called Jay and Bloom to take your car back to Princeton," he told her. "I'll drop you off."

"Really?!" she squealed. He didn't miss the way her eyes shone brightly of the idea of quality time.

"Really," he confirmed while tapping her nose. "Now, get ready. We'll eat and I'll drop you off."

She nodded and hopped off of him, but not before kissing him briefly. He smiled as she skipped to the bathroom. His smile, however, faltered when he dreaded dropping her off. He was just as anxious as she was, maybe even more, but he was just better at hiding his emotions. He sighed, knowing he'll miss her like crazy. He sighed again, knowing he was at fault. If they hadn't fought over a year ago...they wouldn't have had to live separately now. He brightened up when he remembered that she'll graduate in about five months and finally come back to him.

Little did he know that things will change and be different after Stella's graduation. Fate always has a way to screw with perfect endings.

---

The Next Day...

~ Shields' Corporations, New York - 9:00 AM ~

"Lisa, I'm sorry about Stella yesterday," Brandon apologized. "She didn't mean to."

Lisa airily waved and smiled. "I should be the one apologizing. I was just happy for you and I guess I overreacted a little. Believe me, I wouldn't have reacted any differently if it were her."

Brandon smiled while hugging his friend to which she gladly returned. "Thank you."

After pulling back, Lisa whistled wolfishly. "What's up with you though? You look as if you've hit a gold mine," she smirked.

Brandon felt his neck lightly redden. "Something like that," he chuckled sheepishly while rubbing the back of his neck before going back to his desk.

"Good for you, dude," Lisa winked before heading out.

Brandon chuckled and revolved calmly around the chair. He did hit something worth way more than a gold mine. He gained Stella's ultimate trust and...wasn't it enough? He could still feel bits of her scent on his body. Smiling to himself like a loon, he went back to work. He only hoped he'll be able to focus properly until he can see her again, otherwise, he's in some deep shit.

---

~ Princeton University, New Jersey - 12:30 AM ~

Bloom, Tecna, and Stella walked side by side to the cafeteria, lost in their merry chatter.

"I can't believe we'll graduate in a few months!" Bloom sighed blissfully while flopping into a chair with her tray of food.

"I know," Tecna nodded. "Two years sure fly by fast."

Stella simply nodded.

"I sooo deserve a car after this! My parents don't trust me with anything other than a bike!" Bloom complained while whining.

"If you deserve a car, Tecna deserves the school to be named after her," Stella snorted unladylike while Tecna laughed. The latter is the valedictorian of this year while Stella is in 9th place and Bloom is in 39th.

Bloom suddenly chirped. "Speaking of, mind telling us why you're glowing?" the redhead smirked at the blonde.

"Excuse me?" Stella stammered. "I'm not," she defended herself pathetically, but she couldn't push the blush down.

Tecna looked at Stella with interest as she started to lightly smirk in curiosity. "Really? You're practically radiating happiness," she noted.

"Tecna! Not helpful," Stella blushed while stammering like an idiot.

Bloom whistled. "So...you and Brandon finally...did it?!" she nearly screamed at the realization.

"Bloom!" Stella hollered while pounding a fist into the table, earning a few stares from other tables. The blonde mouthed an apology to them before turning to her own. "Mind your damn business!" the blonde hissed.

"Oh come on! We're best friends. We tell each other everything!" Bloom shrugged and Tecna simply shook her head in amusement.

"As if that justifies you invading my sex life shamelessly," Stella muttered, accidentally let it slip out. Blushing at what she just said, she covered her face in embarrassment while Bloom and Tecna started to laugh uncontrollably.

"Awww, that's nothing to be ashamed of, Stel!" Tecna giggled.

Bloom stopped laughing and looked weirdly at Tecna. "You mean...you and Timmy also...?"

Tecna looked downright offended. "I'm not totally an anti-social butterfly, you know," she rolled her eyes, confirming that she and Timmy were serious as well.

"You didn't tell us!" Bloom gasped.

Stella giggled at Tecna's blushing face and decided to point out helpfully. "Bloomy, some of us prefer to keep our private lives...private," the blonde smirked.

"See? Thank you!" Tecna high-fived Stella.

Bloom rolled her eyes. "Whatever. My sweetheart and I have nothing to hide," the redhead sighed dreamily.

Stella and Tecna groaned in agony. "Well, you should try it once," Stella muttered in disgust, earning a fit of giggles from her pink-haired friend.

The three continued to chatter endlessly until the bell finally ring to usher students back to their classes.

---

~ 6:30 PM ~

Stella hopped on her bed excitedly. When she woke up this morning, she completely forgot about her present. She hadn't opened the gift that Brandon gave her. She placed the box on her bed and wiggled it a little. It didn't make any sound that she could decipher.

"What is that?" Bloom asked.

Stella blushed. "Brandon gave it to me the day before and I hadn't opened it yet."

Bloom gasped and joined the blonde on her bed. "Well, what the hell are you waiting for?! Open it!" the redhead squeaked, ignoring the look Stella gave her. Brandon always showered Stella with gifts and practically made her walk on rose petals. His presents were always thoughtful and beautiful. Tecna took out her headphones, wondering what the ruckus is about. "You guys mind keeping it down?" she said a little annoyed.

"Screw it, Tec! I want to know what Brandon gave to Stella!" Bloom glared.

Tecna's eyes widened. "You mean you haven't opened it yet," the fuchsia-haired girl hopped off the bed while placing her laptop to the side.

"He told me to open it after he left," Stella blushed.

"Well, he left ages ago! Open it!" Bloom clapped her hands impatiently. Tecna simply crossed her arms but there was a huge interest on her face as well.

Stella tossed them both a dry look. "Is privacy a foreign concept to you?"

"Yes especially when our roommate gets expensive gifts," Tecna winked.

Stella's toes warmed at the thought of him again. She honestly didn't care for the price of the object. If it was something from him, then she'd treasure it with all of her heart. Sighing at them and knowing that they won't leave until they know what's inside, Stella slowly pulled the wrapping paper away.

A cardboard box tumbled out of the paper. Bloom handed her scissors to pry open the tape. Stella peeked inside and opened the box fully. She gasped when she saw a royal blue velvet case inside. It didn't need a twenty three year old to realize that it was a jewelry case. Stella shakily took it out and opened it out. A collective gasp could be heard from around the room.

The blonde's eyes widened when she saw a diamond cut necklace with a solitaire diamond pendant sitting in the center. Her fingers hovered over the case with a feathery touch as she noted the matching earrings on the bottom. Bloom started to squeal. "Is that the bomb or what?!" the redhead murmured excitedly. "Stel, you're so lucky!" Tecna exclaimed as she stared at the beautiful case with awe on her features. The necklace was simple with a thin chain. Stella smiled and blushed as she remembered that he always had the best taste in jewelry.

She gently put the case back in the box and took out the second box. Her amber eyes widened curiously when she realized that it was no box. It was a book with burgundy leather hardback binding. Her lips burst open into a soft smile when she saw their names written in golden calligraphic letters.

Stella and Brandon Shields

The cover of the book had a huge picture of them. Stella's heart burst in joy when she saw that it was a picture from the gala they took this year. They were both in a candid shot during one of their many dances. It was on the second day where she wore a burgundy keyhole trumpet mermaid dress that complimented her figure to perfection.

The position was when Brandon had dipped her with a smirk on his lips while a faint of blush was present on her cheeks. They looked so happy and so much in love that Stella couldn't even stop grinning for a single second.

"Aww, look at you, Stell!" Bloom murmured softly in adoration while hugging her friend.

"You guys look so happy," Tecna complimented while smiling at the picture on the front. It was so beautiful. Despite their temporary break up, they looked so happy here.

"Thanks, girls," Stella whispered, unable to tear her eyes away from the candid shot. It was clear that Heather had taken the pictures.

"I guess we'll leave you to it," Bloom said while slowly moving away. Tecna sat on the edge of the blonde's bed. "Stel?"

Stella turned to Tecna and gasped when the latter hugged her tightly. "It's so good to finally see you so...happy," Tecna told her. Stella's eyes brimmed with joy. "Thanks, Tec," she replied while hugging her back.

Stella was soon left alone by her roommates. Blushing like a lovesick fool, she opened the book.

She gasped to see that it was a photo album. Her lips smiled widely at the pictures down below. Her childhood pictures as a baby and toddler were to the left while his were on the right. Stella let out a 'awww' when she saw Brandon looking absolutely adorable in a little tux. He was so short and cute and was grinning at Heather who held him in her arms. Heather and Lucas looked so young.

To the left side of the page, she saw her own pictures. Her eyes watered when she saw her parents who were quite young as well. Her mother was still a teenager when she was born. Nonetheless, they all looked so happy. Stella made a mental note to ask Brandon how he got her pictures. It was probably Musa or Layla.

As she turned the page with a wide grin, she saw more pictures of them as children. Stella gushed when she saw a taller Brandon in Lucas's arms and a brunette baby girl in Heather's arms. Flora. She was so freaking adorable in a flowery tutu.

Stella turned the pages, her grin growing each passing second. Now, they were all older. The blonde laughed when she realized that she was taller than Brandon up until middle school. He must've hit puberty and his growth spurt rocketed him to his towering height. She dreamily sighed at the pictures of a hot football player, basketball player, and wrestler. I didn't know he was a wrestler in high school, Stella thought. It was freaking hot though. She blushed. He was still lean at that time. He became athletic and muscular by the time he reached his junior year. The muscles shaped themselves further in his senior year. He appeared to be such a fitness freak.

Stella looked at her younger thirteen year old self and laughed. She had braces when she was young. And not to mention the cringe-worthy frizzy hair. Somehow, for the most part, puberty has been kind to her, save for a pizza zit attack in tenth grade. She was almost extremely chubby up until eighth grade but lost her baby fat naturally as she neared high school. I was so young, she mused to herself.

Stella blushed when she turned another page and saw pictures of Brandon graduating from the university at the top of his class while she was probably a sophomore or junior at that time. Damn it, she flushed as her cheeks turned red at how handsome he was. He was still young and he had that innocent boyish charm on his face. She looked at herself who was either posing with her friends or parents. She traced her fingers over her late parents' faces as she struggled not to cry. She saw pictures of herself graduating from college. Tears erupted in her eyes from the pit of her heart as she remembered that this was the exact time when she broke up with Jason, met Brandon, and heard the devastating news through a phone call.

"Mom...dad..." she inaudibly whispered tearfully.

She turned the page yet again and gasped when she saw their wedding pictures. The pictures were mainly of her and him, save for a few group pictures. She found herself smiling yet once again as she traced her wedding dress with her fingers. She hadn't noticed it back then, but seeing it now hit her with a wave of nostalgia. For some reason, she wished that she wasn't so grief-stricken for her own wedding. Weddings happen once in a lifetime and sad faces just didn't belong there.

She didn't believe in divorce or remarriages, for they were against her moral principles and contrasted against her definition of true love. She smiled at how handsome Brandon looked in his tux. She blushed when she saw a portrait as they posed for the photographers that Heather supposedly hired. They were together when Stella hugged Brandon by his neck and his arms were around her waist. She laughed to herself when she remembered how downright uncomfortable they felt around each other at that time.

Turning the pages even more, she gushed at their moments together. Up till now, it was pictures of them living unbeknownst to each other. But now...their life together began.

Memories of their road trip, Stella and Jay posing together like playful siblings, Brandon asking Stella to move in with him and the memories they took there, the gala night...

The year between them was not mentioned and a third person wouldn't have been able to tell that they didn't see each other for a whole year. The pictures skipped over the year and finally portrayed the last gala night and finally...

Christmas.

Stella's eyes watered with happiness as her face beamed and glowed ethereally with a newfound joy. She turned to the last page and a large portrait of them both together. It was a picture of Brandon laughing and winking at the camera while he held her legs in a piggy back style. She was smiling beautifully for the camera as she kissed his cheek with a huge grin plastered all over her face. It was taken this December and Heather had taken it when the couple went over to visit. A little note was scribbled on the bottom of the page.

There are no words to how special you are to me. You're the center of my universe, Sunshine. There's nothing I want more than to wake up by your side every day and watch you smile.

Happy birthday, Sunshine.

A tear slid down her eye as she closed the book. She could literally imagine his voice at the moment, saying these words. She swiftly wiped the lonely away. This was the best gift he could ever give her and she honestly couldn't believe how happy she was at the moment. He showed how how far they had both gotten and that he couldn't be any more happier.

Picking up her phone, she knew she had to call him and tell him how much she loved him.

---

~ Shields Corporations', New York - 7:40 PM ~

Rolling back his stiff shoulder blades, Brandon locked the door to his office. He was more than ready to call it a night and just go home. He hadn't talked to Stella all day either other than the occasional texts, so there's that.

"Dr. Shields, you're leaving?" Lisa Haydon emerged from her office a few rooms away. She smiled politely as she approached him.

"Lisa, I'd really appreciate it if you talked to me like a friend," he smirked while slowly walking down the hallway. Lisa laughed as she walked with him. "Well, you idiot, if people see us as anything closer than a professional relationship, they might question your fidelity," she said.

Brandon chuckled. "My fidelity is unquestioned, thank you very much. What's up?"

"Oh right. Nearly forgot. I need you to sign this," she told him while handing him a set of agreement papers.

Brandon nodded. "I'll read over it tonight," he told her as she nodded.

"Good night, Brandon," Lisa smiled.

"'Night," he grinned while continuing to walk down the less busy hallway. There weren't as many employees as there were in the morning and afternoon.

"Dr. Shields?" the receptionist suddenly stood up as he passed by.

"Yes?" he stopped while turning around.

"There's someone who wanted to see you," she replied.

He raised an eyebrow and looked at the time. "I don't have any appointments at this time."

"I'm sorry, sir. She was insistent and said that she was a long time friend of yours."

"Who?" he narrowed his eyes.

"She just went that way, sir," the receptionist said while pointing towards the direction he had been walking in.

Brandon's ears perked up at the sound of pointy, clicking heels making their way towards him. He turned to the direction the receptionist point. His face immediately paled as his features lost all colors. He struggled not to stagger in his position and stand still. "Skylar...?" he whispered in shock as his eyes went wide and lips slightly parted open. He watched a young woman in her early twenties elegantly walk towards him with a victorious and confident smile. Skylar Black...

She halted just in front of him. "Brandon...it's been a while..." she smiled and moved to wrap her arms around his neck. She moved closer and nuzzled her lips near his ear. "Hasn't it?" she whispered while the brunette gaped in never-ending shock and stood frozen solid. His heart thumped against his chest violently as he couldn't believe the woman who has enticed him for years...was standing not less than inches away from him.

"Sky...is that really you?" he whispered as she pulled back.

"Of course it is..." she breathed as she gazed at him. "I missed you so much," she smiled.

Brandon stood still as he took her face in. She was gorgeous as always. Her jet black hair tumbled down in glossy waves as she stood confidently before him in a black pencil skirt and white ruffled blouse.

"What...what are you doing here?" he asked, his voice a little breathless.

"I wanted to see you," she smirked. "Can't I?" she cooed.

Brandon stared at her for a long moment, feeling his breath knocked away. He didn't know why his heart hammered loudly against the walls of his chest.

He never noticed the phone vibrating in his pocket.

Instead, he stood gawking at her, unable to believe that she's really here. The feelings, the desire, and the passion he once had for her returned to him with full force as he remembered how he pined and longed for her. Skylar stood there with a small smirk playing on her cherry red lips as she met his eyes with an intense gaze.

---

Preview for the next chapter:

"What the hell is she doing here?" he asked with a growl.

"She's the new managing director of the designing division," Lisa pointed out.

"Fire her. NOW. I don't want her anywhere on these premises."

"What?! Do you have any idea of her qualifications?! She's more than eligible-!"

"I DON'T CARE! Fire her, Lisa!" Brandon yelled while taking a paper weight and hurling it loudly against the wall, making it crash to the wall and shatter against the floor into million pieces.

"Are you insane?! Why!?"

Brandon fell speechless. Why...? Because...

He breathed as he looked out the window. Why...? Because he's scared. He's scared of betrayal. From her side or...his own.

---

-:-:-:-

---

K. So I'll be inserting these previews in my chapters from now on. Thank you to the user who suggested that :)!

*yawns sleepily* This is me sitting up from 7:00 PM till 2:00 AM in the morning xD I don't know why but I wanted to finish this in one sitting. ANYWAYS. I hope you're all satisfied with the length of this chapter. 29,000+ words! My regular chapters are around 6000-7000 words, so this chapter is like worth about 5-ish regular chapters? So I hope that's worth something! Oh and I'm sooooo sorry if the sex scene downright sucked. I've never experienced it personally, so I was very uncomfortable in writing it. Heh, I don't think I'll write one ever again. Jesus. I think I'll just copy and paste the next time I use such scenes -_- Anyways, so that's that.

IMPORTANT (Please do read):

I WILL NOT BE UPDATING FOR THE NEXT TWO MONTHS. I'm taking a much needed vacation and I'm off to spend some quality time with my family. I live in a dorm and so far away from my home, so I miss my family a lot and get easily homesick. And I'm mourning for enough people at once already.

So please, respect my privacy and my free time. I have a sincere request for all of you: please don'tpressure me to update. I deserve a vacation as well every once in a while. Please don't be mean like certain people I've had the unfortunate chance to encounter the last few days. It's horrible and it hurts me A LOT. This is why I'm letting you know beforehand that I'm taking a relaxing, technology-free vacation. I MIGHT (but no guarantee) update or throw in a chapter or two, but I can't promise anything.

Oh and guys, I've set up a new poll on my page. So PLEASE, take it. I won't be there so I want to know what story you want me to update when I eventually return. It's SO much easier (and it'll be faster) for me update if I knew what to update next. I spend hours debating on what the heck to write so I write a little bit of every story, making it impossible for me to actually publish it on here. So, please do me a favor and select up to 5 stories :)

Thank you so much :)

Happy holidays and a happy summer vacation! :D

P.S. I don't know if this chapter is boring...but this was the best I could do. I don't feel very well emotionally but I hope that when I come back in early August, I don't disappoint with my stories this much. Thank you for reading this far :) It means a lot to me. Feel free to throw in constructive criticism and advise/suggestions. But please don't show hate. It hurts more than you know and I'm sure you wouldn't like it if someone did it to you.