Gabriel's Obsession

Unveiling Desires and Dark Intentions

Amelia's POV

Mark and I took our seats in the hall, engaging in lighthearted conversation as the principal stepped forward to deliver his speech. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, especially regarding the guest of honor.

Rumors swirled about the guest, a supposed billionaire and CEO of Hamilton Enterprise. Amidst the chatter, some sought his attention, driven by shallow intentions and an allure for his youthful handsomeness. Personally, I remained indifferent to his identity, more concerned with the content of his character than his exterior.

When the guest of honor graced the stage, I was rendered speechless. He was none other than the man I had collided with earlier. Undeniably handsome, an aura of discomfort surrounded him, an instinctive warning to proceed with caution.

Our eyes locked briefly, his cheeky smile extending towards me. Mortified, I averted my gaze, cheeks flushing with embarrassment. His speech concluded swiftly, his exit from the hall equally abrupt. Despite the odd encounter, I dismissed it and carried on.

Joined by Sabrina, Schem, and Mark, our camaraderie continued outdoors. Laughter echoed as we exchanged jokes and relished each other's company. Amidst the mirth, I felt an unshakable gaze upon me, yet I opted to ignore it.

"Amelia, Mark, I'm sorry, but Sabrina and I need to pass on lunch today," she explained regretfully. "Our uncle arrived from Australia, and we have to welcome him home." Schem wore a somber expression. "We'll catch up another time." A promise of future camaraderie and a quick embrace followed before they departed.

Turning to Mark, I quipped, "Well, it seems you're stuck with me for lunch." His arm encircled my shoulder as he teased, "Lead the way, cutie pie, I'm famished." Sharing a chuckle, we set off towards a nearby restaurant, the growls in our stomachs aligning with our culinary mission.

As the afternoon progressed, Mark escorted me home. It had been an incredible day, replete with shared meals, conversations, and laughter. Playful moments at the park had rekindled our childhood spirits, yet my heart carried a weighty secret, one I was determined to share.

Summoning my courage, I uttered, "Mark..." Uncertainty hung in the air, but his familiar smile reassured me. "Yes, cutie pie?" he responded, his affectionate nickname warming my heart.

Swallowing my nervousness, I confessed, "There's something I need to tell you. I'm... well, I'm a bit nervous about it." Fidgeting with my hands, I continued hesitantly, "I don't know how you'll react, but I feel I need to say it."

His gentle gaze and soothing words calmed my anxiety. "You know you can tell me anything, right? I'll understand," he assured me.

Summoning my courage, I finally revealed, "Mark... I have a crush on you." Admitting my feelings felt like releasing a deep breath I'd held for far too long. The room seemed to hold its breath in response to my vulnerability.

Unbeknownst to me, Mark's confession was poised to follow. "Actually, cutie pie, I've been meaning to say this too. I've had a crush on you since we were ten," he admitted, his sincerity shining through his words.

His revelation left me stunned, my mind racing to process the implications. Before I could respond, he gently scratched his head, his smile bashful. A fleeting pang of regret coursed through me – what if our deepening connection marred our cherished friendship?

Then, in a surge of courage, Mark spoke again. "So, cutie pie, I've been wondering... would you be my girlfriend? Can we give it a shot?" His question hung in the air, laden with hope.

Overwhelmed by emotion, I found my voice. "I would love to," I affirmed, my heart swelling with newfound joy. An electrifying tension enveloped us, magnified by his proximity.