𝑾𝑯𝒀 𝑴𝑬

𝒀𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒂 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓

  AT GRACE'S ROOM
  Bright's POV

 I carefully laid Grace on her bed, a wave of regret washing over me. "Don't move. I'll get some balm for your ankle," I said, trying to sound calm as I rushed to the bathroom for the first aid kit.

When I returned, I noticed the distrust in her eyes, glistening with unshed tears. "I'll apply it to your ankle. Just let me know if it hurts," I offered, kneeling beside her.

"Don't touch me! You're a hypocrite. You hurt me, and now you want to help? Just go!" Her voice trembled, and I felt a pang of guilt.

"Are you really asking me to leave my own home?" I shot back, surprised by her boldness.

"Yes, it's your mansion, but it's my room!"

I couldn't help but smirk. "True, but your room is still part of my mansion."

"But I never asked to be here!" she countered, snatching the balm and applying it incorrectly.

"Give it to me; you're not doing it right." I gently took the balm from her and began to apply it, wanting to ease her discomfort.

"I told you not to touch me!" she protested, trying to push me away, but I stood my ground.

"Stop moving, princess; you'll only hurt yourself more!" I insisted, but she didn't back down.

"You don't tell me what to do!" she shot back, her defiance igniting something in me.

I smiled at her fierce spirit. "But last time, when I told you not to move, you didn't."

"What are you talking about?" she asked, her cheeks flushing.

"Don't pretend you don't remember; you're a terrible liar, princess." I teased, feeling a spark between us.

After a moment, I finished applying the balm. "All done! It'll probably hurt for a couple of days," I said, trying to lighten the mood. Just as I turned to leave, I heard her call my name for the first time.

"Bright, can I ask you something?"

I turned back, a mix of anticipation and nervousness filling me. "Of course, princess, you can!"

"You said you kidnapped me because I was brave enough to save you. Was that the only reason? If you wanted to reward me, you didn't need to kidnap me. You could've easily found my address!"

Her logic hit hard. "Yes, you're right, but it's more complicated than that." I moved closer, sitting at the edge of her bed, wanting to be truthful.

"What is it, then? What else do you want from me?" she pressed, genuine curiosity lighting her eyes.

"I want you. I want your love. Did you get the answer to your question?" I looked straight into her eyes, hoping she would understand.

"What?" Her surprise was intoxicating, and I felt exhilarated.

"You asked me a question, and I answered it!"

"How's that, Bright? I don't understand!" Hearing my name on her lips sent a thrill through me.

"It's simple: I want you to love me. Got it?" I smirked, relishing the moment.

"You want what??"

"I have some work to do. If you need anything, just call Bella. I'll have her wait outside your door, and if you get bored, feel free to watch some TV." I turned to leave, a mix of excitement and anxiety churning inside me.

As I stepped out, I heard a knock on my door. "Miss Parker, can I come in?"

"Of course, come in!"

Bella entered, her demeanor polite as always. "Mr. Smith told me to stay with you in case you need something," she said with a warm smile.