Once, my paranoid love

“I’m so happy you’re here, Elena,” Nikita forced a smile, though a flicker of displeasure passed through her eyes. Derek, seemingly oblivious to the undercurrents, steered the conversation.

“Let’s go inside. Elena, you’ve been standing for a long time,” Derek urged, his attention solely on his wife.

While Nikita projected an air of hospitality, her internal monologue betrayed a different sentiment. “Why are they here? It’s horrible. Why is it that she always gets the best one? I’m going to teach you, Elena, today’s lesson.”

As if on cue, Nikita’s phone interrupted the tension-laden atmosphere. She excused herself with a step to the side, answering the call that seemed almost too conveniently timed.

Derek, undeterred by the unspoken tension, walked with Elena, hand in hand, navigating through the room. The eyes of every onlooker followed them, their gazes drawn to Derek like moths to a flame. Elena, appreciative of the attention her husband garnered, reveled in the moment.

“He looks after me admirably. I’m really fortunate to have him. He is the ideal husband. Every girl dreams of having a husband like you,” Elena mused, her thoughts a silent acknowledgment of Derek’s presence and the envy it seemed to evoke.

**

“Where have you gone?” Nikita’s voice echoed through the phone.

“Honey, I’m on my way,” my voice reassured.

“Please don’t be so late. You have been invited as a special guest. My father eagerly awaits your coming,” Nikita pleaded.

“Don’t be concerned. I’ll be there shortly,” I promised before ending the call.

From the vantage point of the roof, unseen by the bustling crowd below, I observed the scene. My attention was fixed on Elena, and a cascade of emotions played across my face.

“Elena, it’s been a long time since I’ve seen you,” my inner thoughts murmured.

“That guy doesn’t want to leave your side, not even for a second. But it’s fine if he does it for a short period of time.”

The moonlight cast a soft glow on Elena as I continued my silent observation.

“Elena, you appear to be a little fatter than before. However, you appear to be more gorgeous than before. You’re in great form right now.”

A bittersweet nostalgia wrapped around my thoughts.

“I miss the good old days when you slept in my arms. I was expecting to meet you.”

As if savoring the moment, I took my time descending the stairs.

**

The opulent atmosphere of Mr. Kai’s mansion buzzed with conversations and the clinking of glasses. Everyone seemed engrossed in their own world, and Derek, ever the attentive businessman, didn’t release my hand, continuing to interact with his clients.

Boredom settled over me like a heavy cloak. The desire for a breath of fresh air outside the lavish confines of the mansion tugged at me. I glanced at Derek, considering whether to ask him to accompany me. However, the thought of spoiling the business interactions lingered in my mind.

“Derek,” I finally said, my voice soft yet carrying a plea for reprieve from the monotony.

“Yes, my dear. Are you feeling bad?”

Derek responded immediately, concern etched on his face.

I shook my head, dispelling any notion of discomfort.

“No, I’m perfectly alright. I’m just bored out of my mind. Is it okay if I go outside?”

A fleeting pause filled the air as Derek contemplated my request. The moon’s gentle glow cast shadows on his face, revealing the lines of consideration. His immediate readiness to follow me outside was evident.

“Is it okay if I go outside?” I reiterated, seeking his confirmation.

Derek affirmed, “Yes, let’s go,” poised to step away from the crowd and accompany me.

I halted him with a gentle touch on his arm, stopping him in his tracks. “No,” I said, my tone carrying a mix of assurance.Exclusive content from NôvelDrama.Org.

“You are free to continue working. I don’t want to cause you any trouble,” I expressed my concern, aware of the responsibilities tethering Derek to his business endeavors.

“Bothering me? You aren’t, Elena. Listen, you are the most important person to me. Why are you saying this?”

Derek responded, a hint of irritation in his voice.

I smiled, my fingers gently squeezing his arm.

“I didn’t mean that, Derek. I know that I am your main priority, but you should be sincere with your work,” I reassured him, my gaze reflecting both understanding and affection.

“He isn’t here, Derek. I know you’re worried about me all the time. As you can see, there are a lot of people here. Nobody will ever hurt me,” I added, my voice laced with reassurance.

Derek’s concern lingered, a protective aura enveloping him.

“But Elena,” he began, his worry etched on his features.

I interrupted him with a tender gesture, kissing his hand gently.

“Don’t be frightened. No one is going to hurt me, and I’m not going too far. I’ll take a seat.” I gestured towards a nearby swing, an inviting spot beneath the moonlit sky.

“Promise me you won’t go,” Derek implored, his eyes locking with mine.

A soft smile graced my lips as I nodded in affirmation.

“Yes,” I replied, the promise hanging in the air, sealed by the moonlit glow. Derek’s reluctance was evident, but a mutual understanding passed between us. The swing beckoned, and with a final reassuring glance, I made my way towards the solitary perch.

Derek reluctantly nodded as I assured him that I would be back in just five minutes. His protective nature surfaced, evident in the concern etched across his face.

“Give me five minutes, sweetie. I’ll join you,” he said, his voice carrying both love and hesitation.

“Take your time,” I replied, a playful smile dancing on my lips.

“If you need anything, call me,” Derek added, his worry lingering in the air.

“I’m not going too far, Derek. From here, you can see me,” I reassured him, my tone lightened by a chuckle.

“And relax, he’s not here,” I continued, wanting to ease his concerns. “You’re worrying about me too much.”

Before I could delve further into my attempt to alleviate Derek’s worries, his lips met mine in a soft, lingering kiss. The world seemed to pause for a moment, encapsulating the tenderness shared between us.

“Just five minutes, sweetie,” Derek reiterated, his words filled with both longing and a hint of reluctance. “And then we’ll be on our way home. I just can’t keep my mind here.”

I nodded, my smile reflecting understanding and love.