Captive

chapter 60

At the grand award ceremony, the spotlight shone brightly on Jeff as he stood on the stage, holding the golden trophy for Best Fashion Designer of the Year. The audience erupted into applause, but Jeff’s gaze was distant, his emotions swirling beneath the surface.

He stepped up to the microphone, taking a deep breath before speaking. “First, I want to thank everyone who believed in me, my team who worked tirelessly, and the clients who trusted my vision. This award isn’t just mine—it’s ours.”

The crowd cheered, but Jeff’s voice softened as he continued, his tone tinged with sorrow. “I also want to dedicate this to someone I lost, my best friend, Pong. He was one of my biggest supporters and always pushed me to be better. I know he’s watching over me.” His voice cracked slightly, but he quickly composed himself.

Finally, Jeff’s gaze shifted to where Bible sat in the audience, his presence commanding and intense as always. “And to my partner, Bible... you’ve been my anchor through everything. Your unwavering support, even when I was at my lowest, means more to me than words can ever express. This is as much your victory as it is mine.”

The audience erupted into applause once again as Jeff stepped back, his eyes locking with Bible’s. Bible gave him a small nod, his lips curving into a proud, satisfied smile.

As Jeff exited the stage, Bible was already waiting for him, his arms open and his expression soft. “You killed it up there,” Bible murmured, pulling Jeff into a tight embrace.

Jeff smiled, leaning into him. “I meant every word.”

“I know,” Bible replied, his voice low. “And I’m never letting you forget how much you mean to me.”

The moment was theirs, a reminder of the love and determination that had brought them here, together, against all odds.

After the ceremony, Jeff and Bible sat across from each other at an intimate candlelit dinner. The soft glow of the lights highlighted Jeff’s radiant expression, a mix of pride and contentment. Bible couldn’t help but watch him with admiration as Jeff recounted small moments from his journey to the award.

“I still can’t believe it,” Jeff said, setting his glass down. “All those late nights, the struggles—it all feels worth it now.”

“It is,” Bible replied firmly, his eyes gleaming with pride. “You deserve every bit of this success, and I’m proud of you.”

Jeff smiled, his cheeks warming under Bible’s intense gaze. As they finished their meal, Bible leaned forward, his tone playful but filled with intent. “Let’s go somewhere.”

“Where?” Jeff asked curiously.

“You’ll see,” Bible said with a smirk, standing up and holding out his hand.

They drove for a while, the city lights giving way to the quiet serenity of the coast. The sound of waves greeted them as they stepped out onto the beach, the moonlight reflecting off the water. A soft breeze rustled through the palm trees, and the vast stretch of sand looked like something out of a dream.

Jeff turned to Bible, his eyes wide with wonder. “You brought me to the beach?”

Bible nodded, slipping his arm around Jeff’s waist. “I wanted to celebrate somewhere special, just the two of us.”

They walked along the shore, their footsteps trailing behind them. Bible led Jeff to a spot where a blanket and lanterns were already set up, the soft glow creating a private sanctuary under the stars.

Jeff laughed softly, his heart full. “You planned all this?”

Bible shrugged, a faint blush coloring his cheeks. “You’re worth it.”