Once Upon a Story [ INCONSISTENT UPDATES ]

Bad Blood II

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 448

❝ ❤️ 𝘮𝘺 𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴 ❞

After the previous ordeal, Lucien decided to take some time to stay with Pearla. She was ecstatic at the news but didn't understand the sudden turn of events. Lucien loved his family business and prioritized it over everyone and...everyone. It wasn't the first time he'd left her to her own devices with little contact. Even after Roman advised him to get a burner phone to contact his panicking girlfriend, he refused.

"The less distractions I have, the faster I can complete my work," he argued. "She'll be fine. Besides, she has you."

Biting his lip, he realized the weight of his words. With his constant absence, Pearla came to value Roman a lot.

"Roman!"

Too much. He grits his teeth, watching her run-up to his assistant, who was running with the other guards. Roman stopped, casually wiping his sweat with his shirt. His face remained blank as he listened to her talk, but there was an unmistakable glow in his eyes. A shine he'd never show anyone in his life.

Anyone but her.

"We need to go visit that ice cream shop together! I heard they have new flavours. I want to try them!"

"I'll see when I have time. I'm busier these days."

Pearla's mood dampened at the news, but Roman brought her smile back assuring him he would make time.

"I promise."

She hugged him, sweaty body and all, and waved as he rejoined his group running up ahead. Lucien locked eyes with him as he passed, sending a silent warning. But no reaction was given. Roman went on his way, unbothered.

Arm swung over her shoulder, Lucien pulled her in. "What were you talking about?"

"We're going to visit the ice cream shop," she started. "It's been so long since we've gotten ice cream together. And all those new flavours. I can't wait!"

"You know I can bring you. Right?"

Pearla shook her head. "You don't like sweets. And you're so busy with work, it's easier to go with Roman since you assigned him to me."

"I'll make the time—"

"It's okay, Luci. I'll be fine." He copied her smile, though his didn't reach his eyes. She was slipping out of his grasp; the girl he fought to gain her trust.

I still need her.

The next few weeks he coddled her and showered her with gifts. They went out on lavish dinners and luxury shopping trips. But every time Roman came into play, she would barely bat an eye at him. Even though he was there, it was always him that caught her attention.

And one day, he had enough.

Why was she leaning toward Roman in the picture instead of him?