Miserable Without Your Love

CHAPTER TEN. Private Jet

The entire family was gathered in the Brooks's mansion. They were all gathered to discuss about Nayson and Ria's wedding ceremony. Sia suggested "let's have it after the gala party". Sophie seconded "I don't think so,if it takes place after the gala party,then the gala party will be forgotten and it's not a good idea to make people forget about the charity gala party". Everyone agreed to let the gala party shine independently and host the wedding a week after. "Where should the wedding take place". Elder Brooks asked? Ria quickly answered "let's have it at the hotel,I mean the hotel is big enough to accommodate almost 250 guests". Nobody could say anything,if the bride wants the hotel then hotel it is. Sophie smiled and said to Ria "after you become my daughter in-law, I'll make sure you're so close to me because it's now my responsibility to take care of you and your unborn baby". Nayson stared at her and questioned "what about me mum?" "Are you getting jealous already" Chris asked. No dad,mum just seem to be forgetting that I'm still her son. Everyone chuckled because of his statement. Kaius excused himself and went up to his room. Sia wondered what was wrong with him because he has been silent all along. While everyone was engrossed in their conversation.
Sia tip-toed into Kaius's room, her eyes scanning the space as if envisioning her own presence within its walls. "To think this will all be mine soon enough," she thought, a sly smile spreading across her face. She drifted toward the bed, running her fingers over the crisp sheets, imagining herself waking up beside Kaius every morning.
In the bathroom, the sound of the shower created a soothing melody, oblivious to Sia's invasion. Kaius stood under the warm water, his thoughts consumed by the very woman now infiltrating his private space. "Sia..." he whispered, shaking his head, attempting to clear his mind.
Unaware of her proximity, Kaius continued his shower, lost in thoughts of their impending gala encounter. Meanwhile, Sia's gaze lingered on the bathroom door, her heart skipping a beat at the sound of Kaius's muffled voice.
Kaius emerged from the bathroom, water droplets glistening on his chiseled physique. A towel wrapped precariously around his waist, he halted mid-stride, startled by Sia's presence. Sia's eyes locked onto Kaius's, her gaze tracing the contours of his body. Her cheeks flushed, but she didn't look away. "Sorry, I didn't mean to intrude," Sia said, her voice husky, eyes never leaving his. Kaius's grip on the towel tightened, his jaw clenched. "What are you doing here, Sia?" Sia's smile was a slow, sultry curve. "I was just... admiring the view." Kaius's eyes narrowed, his face inches from Sia's. "You should leave." Tension crackled between them, the air thick with unspoken desire.
Sia's expression softened, her voice gentle. "I came to check on you, Kaius. You seemed... out of yourself downstairs." Kaius's guarded stance relaxed slightly, though his eyes remained wary. "I'm fine," he said gruffly. Sia took a step closer, her concern genuine. "No, you're not. You seemed distracted, troubled. What's wrong?"
Kaius's grip on the towel loosened, his shoulders sagging. "Just... work stuff."
Sia's eyes narrowed. "Is that all?" Kaius hesitated before nodding. "Yeah." The tension between them dissipated, replaced by a sense of familiarity and concern. Sia's gaze lingered on Kaius's face. "You know I'm here for you, don't you?" Kaius's expression hardened. "You don't have to,Sia. Just leave." The moment hung between them, filled with unspoken understanding. As Sia stood before him, her concern and care still radiating. Sia moved close to Kaius, their lips meeting in a tender, exploratory kiss. Sia's eyes fluttered shut, her body melting into his. The tension between them dissipated, replaced by a spark of attraction. Kaius deepened the kiss, his hands cradling her face. Sia's arms wrapped around his waist, drawing him closer. The towel around Kaius's waist began to slip, but he didn't care. Nothing mattered except the warmth of Sia's lips, the softness of her skin. Time suspended as they lost themselves in the kiss. The world outside receded, leaving only the two of them, suspended in a sea of desire.
As they stood there, the towel precariously clinged to Kaius's hips. Sia's fingers traced the contours of his chest, sending shivers down his spine. Their lips moved in perfect sync, the world around them fading away. The tension between them built, but they refused to break apart. The kiss grew more passionate, their breaths intertwining. Sia's eyes fluttered open, locking onto Kaius's. The intensity in his gaze drew her in, making her heart skip a beat. Kaius's eyes never left hers, his lips still brushing against hers. The connection between them pulsed with electricity. Suddenly, they parted, gasping for air. The towel remained, miraculously, in place. Their eyes locked, the silence thick with unspoken emotions. Sia broke the silence. "I really want you Kaius." Kaius's eyes darkened, his chest heaving. "Please, don't say that," he whispered, his voice strained. Sia's gaze held his, her voice unwavering. "I mean it. I've never felt this way about anyone." Kaius's grip on her face tightened. "You don't understand, Sia. I'm not good for you. I'll only hurt you." Sia's hands covered his, her touch sending shivers down his spine. "I'm willing to take that risk," she whispered. Kaius's resolve crumbled. He pulled her closer, their lips crashing together in a fierce, passionate kiss. Kaius's lips broke away from Sia's. Kaius's eyes locked onto Sia's, his expression resolute. "Sia, I'm sorry. I just can't." Sia's face fell, her voice laced with disappointment. "Why not?" Kaius's jaw clenched, his voice firm. "I just can't, okay?" Sia searched his eyes, sensing a hidden truth. "There's something you're not telling me, isn't there?" Kaius's gaze faltered, his silence confirming Sia's suspicion. Sia's eyes narrowed. "Fine. Keep your secrets. But know this: I feel something between us, and I won't give up." Kaius's face twisted in a mix of frustration and longing. "Sia, please..." Sia stepped back, her voice cold. "No, Kaius. You've made your choice." With that, she turned and walked away, leaving Kaius torn and conflicted. Sia stormed out of Kaius's room,her emotions raw. As she turned the corner,she collided with Nayson.
Nayson's eyes widened with concern as he took in Sia's tear-stained face. "Sia, what's wrong?" he asked softly.
But instead of asking more questions or offering words of comfort, he gently said, "Come with me."  Nayson led Sia to the fourth room from Kaius's, a cozy space filled with soothing colors and calming scents. He gestured for her to sit, then settled beside her. "Sia, Ria told me about your feelings for Kaius," Nayson began gently. Sia's eyes widened, surprised. Nayson's expression turned serious. "You need to be patient with him, Sia. Kaius...he's been through a lot." Sia leaned in, curiosity piqued.
"Ever since his parents passed away, Kaius has built walls around himself," Nayson explained. "He's afraid to love anyone, afraid of losing them like he lost his parents." Sia's heart ached, understanding dawning. "He's terrified of getting close, of feeling that kind of pain again," Nayson continued. "But I've seen the way he looks at you, Sia. There's something there." Sia's eyes locked onto Nayson's. "What are you saying?" Nayson's voice softened. "Give him time, Sia. Help him see that love is worth the risk. He might be harsh on you but just know he loves you, he's not just ready to accept that fact". Sia's eyes widened in surprise, her mind reeling from Nayson's revelation. She felt a pang of guilt and regret, hating herself for what she did to Kaius earlier. "Why didn't he tell me?" Sia whispered, her voice laced with self-reproach. Nayson's expression softened. "Kaius doesn't open up easily." Sia's thoughts flashed back to their intense kiss, Kaius's words echoing in her mind: "I just can't." She realized now that his resistance stemmed from fear, not disinterest. "Oh, Nayson, I was so harsh with him," Sia confessed, shame washing over her. "I didn't understand." Nayson placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You didn't know, Sia. But now that you do, can you give him space?"
Sia nodded vigorously, determination etched on her face. "I'll be patient. I'll show him love is worth the risk and make him accept the fact that he's in love with me". Then they both went downstairs together.
Kaius joined the lively gathering, his presence immediately lifting the mood. As he sat beside Sia, the warmth of her smile welcomed him. The room was filled with laughter and chatter, with Elder Brooks, Nayson's parents, and others sharing stories and jokes. Ria caught Kaius's eye, a hint of amusement dancing in her expression, as if she knew a secret. Nayson, engaged in a heated debate with his father, didn't notice the subtle exchange between Kaius and Sia. The atmosphere was carefree, with everyone enjoying each other's company. As Kaius settled in, Sia leaned in closer, her voice barely above a whisper. "Glad you could join us." Her words were simple, but the warmth behind them spoke volumes.
Kaius's heart swelled, feeling a sense of belonging he hadn't experienced in a long time. The connection between them sparked, a flame that seemed to grow brighter with each passing moments.
Ria clapped her hands, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "You know what? I think it's time we spice things up! Who's up for a game?" The room erupted into cheers and enthusiastic nods. Elder Brooks chuckled. "Ah, Ria, always full of energy!" Sophie smiled. "What game did you have in mind, dear?" Ria grinned mischievously. "Surprise! But don't worry, it'll be fun, I promise." Kaius raised an eyebrow, intrigued. Sia leaned into him, whispering, "This should be interesting." Nayson stood up, gesturing to the large screen TV. "Okay, let's get this game started! You guys should team up."
The family members began dividing into teams, laughter and playful banter filling the air. Kaius turned to Sia, his voice low. "Want to team up together?" Sia's smile lit up the room. "Absolutely."
Ria beamed with excitement. "Alright, let's play 'Would You Rather'! I've prepared some intriguing questions."
The family settled in, eager to start.
Nayson grinned mischievously. "This should be interesting." Elder Brooks chuckled. "Remember, no judging each other's choices." Kaius leaned back, his eyes locked onto Sia, curious about her preferences. Ria began, "Would you rather have a private jet for a year or be able to travel anywhere for free, but only by public transportation?" The room erupted into discussions and debates. Sia turned to Kaius. "What's your choice?" Kaius thought for a moment. "Private jet. Less hassle." Sia smiled. "I'd choose public transportation. Meet new people." Sophie laughed. "I'm with Kaius. Convenience is key."
Elder Brooks nodded. "But Sia's right. You learn so much from strangers."
The game continued, revealing surprising insights and shared laughter. Ria grinned mischievously. "Alright, next question... Would you rather have the ability to speak any language fluently or be able to play any musical instrument perfectly?"
The room fell silent as everyone pondered. Nayson's eyes lit up. "That's tough! I think I'd choose language."
Sia's brow furrowed. "I'd choose music. Imagine being able to compose beautiful pieces." Kaius leaned back, thoughtful. "Language. It'd open up so many doors." Elder Brooks nodded. "Music has a way of uniting people, though." Sophie smiled. "I'd love to speak any language. Travel would be so much easier." Chris chuckled. "And think of the business opportunities!"
As the discussion continued, alliances formed and changed.
Sia turned to Kaius. "Why language?"
Kaius's eyes locked onto hers. "Because connection transcends borders." Sia nodded and smiled at the depth in his words. Ria smiled slyly. "Next question... Would you rather have the ability to relive any day from your past or have the power to see a glimpse of your future?"
The room fell silent, with each person lost in thought. Nayson's eyes sparkled. "Relive any day. I'd redo some mistakes." Sia's expression turned wistful. "Same here. There are moments I'd love to relive." Kaius's gaze drifted off, his jaw clenched. "Future. I'd want to know what's coming." Elder Brooks nodded thoughtfully. "Reliving the past can teach valuable lessons."
Sophie leaned in. "But seeing the future could prepare us for what's ahead." Chris chuckled. "Or make us anxious about what's to come."
Sia turned to Kaius, curiosity in her voice. "Why the future?" Kaius's eyes refocused on hers. "To prepare for what's next. No regrets."
Ria smiled slyly. "Next question... Would you rather have your greatest wish granted or erase a painful memory?" Nayson wrapped his arm around Ria. "Tough one, but I'd erase a painful memory. No regrets in our future together." Ria's eyes sparkled, leaning into Nayson. "I'd choose the same." Elder Brooks, nodded thoughtfully. "I'd erase a painful memory. Life's too short." Kaius's gaze drifted off, his jaw clenched. "I'd erase a painful memory." Sia turned to Kaius, curiosity in her voice. "What's your greatest wish?" Kaius's eyes refocused on hers, his voice barely above a whisper. "To make my business grow even bigger." Sia thought. "The walls must be so huge that he couldn't even think about finding love."  Ria's eyes sparkled. "Next question... Would you rather have your partner's unwavering trust or unconditional love?"
The room fell silent, with each person pondering. Nayson turned to Ria. "Unconditional love. That's what makes life worth living." Ria's face lit up. "I choose the same. Trust can be built, but love is the foundation."
Elder Brooks nodded. "Wisdom, young ones. Unconditional love conquers all." Kaius's gaze met Elder Brooks's, his voice low. "Unwavering trust. It's the backbone of any relationship."
Sia's heart skipped a beat. "I agree. Trust lets us face life's challenges together." Sophie smiled. "That's beautiful. Trust and love go hand-in-hand." Chris chuckled. "And communication is key."
As the discussion continued, the atmosphere grew more intimate.

Ria's next question was prepared. "Would you rather know your partner's deepest fear or greatest desire?" Sia's eyes locked onto Kaius, curiosity burning within.
Nayson's brow furrowed. "That's tough. I think greatest desire."
Ria nodded. "Same here. Knowing what drives them would bring us closer." Elder Brooks's expression turned thoughtful. "Deepest fear. Understanding what they're vulnerable to would help me protect them." Kaius's gaze drifted off, his voice low. "Greatest desire. It'd guide me in making them happy." Sia's heart skipped a beat. "Deepest fear. I'd want to help them overcome it." Sophie smiled. "That's beautiful. Empathy and understanding are essential."
Chris nodded. "And communication is key to unlocking both."
As the discussion continued, the room filled with warmth and openness.
Suddenly, Ria's phone buzzed. She glanced at the screen, a sly grin spreading. "Time for a special round!" Ria announced. "Partners will answer for each other."
Nayson raised an eyebrow. "This should be interesting." Ria smiled mischievously. Let's start with Nayson and me. Nayson grinned. "I think Ria's deepest fear is losing the people she cares about." Ria's eyes welled up, nodding. "That's right. You know me too well." Ria turned to Nayson. "And I think Nayson's greatest desire is to make a difference in the world. Nayson's face lit up. "Exactly! You understand me."
Next, it was Kaius and Sia's turn.
Kaius's gaze locked onto Sia's. "I think Sia's greatest desire is to find true happiness,I guess." Sia's heart skipped a beat, her voice barely above a whisper. "That's right." Sia's eyes sparkled. "And I think Kaius's deepest fear is losing control of himself." Kaius's expression turned introspective, nodding subtly. The room filled with emotional connections and understanding. Elder Brooks smiled warmly. "This exercise reminds us that true love is about understanding and empathy." Sophie nodded. "And communication is the key to unlocking it all."
Ria's eyes sparkled. "Time for a twist! The next question will be personal, and each person must answer truthfully." "What's one secret you've kept from the others?"
Nayson hesitated before speaking. "I lost a huge contract due to my carelessness." Ria's expression turned supportive. Elder Brooks's voice cracked. "I once slept and cried at my son's burial ground." The room fell silent, with only sniffles breaking the silence. Sophie smiled wistfully. "I attended this party despite Chris forbidding me." Chris's eyes narrowed. Chris cleared his throat. "I almost got kissed by a crazy fan, and it made me realize how much I value my marriage." Sophie's eyes widened, surprise and amusement dancing.
Kaius's jaw clenched. "I can't seem to open my heart to anyone due to my past." Sia's heart went out to him.
Sia took a deep breath. "I don't want to lose Ria, no matter what." Ria's eyes welled up. Ria's voice barely above a whisper. "I'd rather lose myself than lose Sia." The room filled with emotional connections and vulnerability. Elder Brooks nodded. "Thank you for trusting us with your secrets." Sophie smiled. "We're stronger together."
As the evening drew to a close,the family gathered around the dining table. Laughter, stories and warmth filled with air.