Master of his heart (Brielle and Max)

Aubree had always seen Andrew as her beacon, the light that found her in that dark wine cellar where their paths first crossed. But maybe that light was just her own feelings reflecting back at her. Now, that light had faded, and their love had withered.

What she hadn't realized was that she, too, could be someone else's guiding light.

Growing up in the Clements family, Aubree always felt like the odd one out, the unwanted child. She clung to Andrew with everything she had, hoping to find her place.

But Andrew didn't need her, and in her desperation, she set aside her pride to stay by his side for far too long.

Now, standing in front of Matthew, she was at a loss for words.

The recent whirlwind of emotions left her reeling.

Matthew looked down, his lashes casting soft shadows on his cheeks. "After I got rescued, something clicked for me. I'd stare at the clock on the wall, willing it to move faster, just so I could grow up and be with you."

"When I was fourteen, I tried to approach you, but you were always by Andrew's side, looking at him with such intensity. I knew I didn't stand a chance. So, I went to the American prairies, hoping the freedom and wildness would help me forget."

"But I couldn't. When I heard you and Andrew were having problems, I wanted to rush to you. But I was only seventeen, still a kid. I knew confessing then would ruin any chance of even being friends. So I waited, and when I finally turned eighteen, it seemed like you'd closed your heart."

"Aubree, why am I always a step behind?" Matthew's voice broke, his eyes glistening with unshed tears, a rare vulnerability.

Aubree felt a sharp pang in her chest-a feeling she'd only ever associated with Andrew. But now, it was overwhelming.

She tried to speak but couldn't find the words. Instead, she got up and hugged him tightly.

"Let's give it a shot," she said softly.

Matthew froze, then his face lit up like a sky full of stars.

"Really?"

Aubree nodded firmly. "Really."

She never quite understood why things with Matthew moved so fast. That night they shared was eye-opening, not just because of the physical connection, but because he made her feel needed and cherished, something she never experienced with Andrew. noveldrama

Overcome with emotion, Matthew

hugged her fiercely and kissed her deeply. After a while, he scooped her up and carried her to the bedroom.

Aubree knew what he wanted, but as she glanced at the clock, she gently pushed him away, breathless. If we keep this up, I'll be late. Mr. Casey is no joke when he's mad."

"And no marks, please," she added quickly.

Matthew paused, his eyes a mix of frustration and yearning. He was visibly holding back, a sheen of sweat on his forehead.

He grabbed her hand and placed it on him, his voice a mix of pleading and need. "Then help me out here."

Aubree blushed as he rested his chin on her shoulder, her hand moving instinctively.

But as he lingered, she grew anxious. "If we don't wrap this up, I'm going to be late."

"Aubree, say something," he urged.

"What do you want me to say?"

"Something... spicy."