Requiem of a Broken Heart

Chapter 33 Chapter 33: Brian's intensity the previous day had been overwhelming.

Rachel, mindful of the office surroundings, quickly placed her hand over his mouth. “I'm... I'm fine, Mr. White. There's something important I need to discuss with you." "Mr. White?" A frown creased Brian's brow.

"Brian," she quickly corrected, her tone softening. "I need to ask for an advance on my salary for the next two years." "Why do you need such a large amount?" he asked.

Rachel didn't hesitate as she explained, "It's for Jeffrey's legal defense." "Let Ronald handle all of Eric's legal expenses directly. You shouldn't worry about it," Brian replied.

Brian was known for his financial generosity. Yet, Rachel was determined not to rely on his wealth this time.

"There's no need. Jeffrey is my brother, and I should take responsibility for these costs myself." Brian paused, his hand momentarily still on her waist.

His smile remained, but it grew cold. "Are you sure about this?" Was it necessary for her to keep their finances so distinctly separate? "Yes, using my own money makesfeel more secure. Please, just approve this request.” Her plea visibly upset Brian.

He stepped back, hands sinking into his pockets, his demeanor turning cold. "Alright, if that's what you want-no involvement from me—then submit the formal request. We'll discuss it once it reaches my desk." Every story unfolds at galnov☐☐☐☐☐ Rachel's expression betrayed her inner turmoil.

She then moderated her approach, lowering her voice. "I know it's unusual to ask for a two-year salary advance, but please consider it for..." "For what reason? Because we spent one night together? Or because we've been together for so long?" Brian's gaze pierced through her, his words sharp and biting.

Rachel's face drained of color, reflecting her shock. Did she really deserve such humiliation? "Apologies for the inconvenience!" With those words, Rachel quickly exited, feeling overwhelmed and defeated. Seated at her desk, Rachel wondered if her actions had been a mistake. Provoking him was probably unwise, especially since she was desperately in need of money. Now, even their relationship was at risk, and she found herself unable to shamelessly use his wealth. After all, his wealth remained his own. The last thing she wanted was to be indebted to him. She also dreaded the criticism from Debby, who might belittle her further. With a heavy sigh, Rachel closed her eyes briefly.

Upon leaving her office, she noticed Tracy standing near the hallway. Tracy approached, holding two concert tickets, and boldly asked, "These are for a concert Brian loves. Think he'll cwith me?" Rachel brushed past her without a word. Tracy stamped her foot in frustration. “Let's see how long you can keep up that attitude!" Later, Rachel stopped by the supermarket on her way home. She picked up groceries, focusing on Brian's favorites. Once home, she hesitated before finally deciding to call him.

The call went unanswered.

With a sigh of resignation, she sent a text instead: "I've made dinner. Please chand join me." Despite having prepared everything, Rachel received no response. She tried calling again, only to find his phone turned off. She waited alone, watching the hours tick by from nine to midnight.

Eventually, all the dishes had gone cold. Losing any desire to eat, Rachel cleaned up the kitchen and retreated to her bedroom.

Just after stepping out of the shower and wrapping herself in a towel, the bedroom door swung open. Brian stood in the doorway, his tall silhouette casting a shadow. His gaze intensified upon seeing her. "You..." Rachel was clearly stunned as well.

Her hands reflexively tightened the towel, and she nervously adjusted her damp hair.

"Cover here," he ordered, his face flushed as he motioned with his finger. She stood motionless, seemingly rooted to the spot.

His patience quickly evaporated. He angrily removed his tie and stumbled toward her. The closer he got, the more the scent of alcohol filled the air.

It was then that she realized he was intoxicated.

"Have you been drinking?" she barely started to ask when, suddenly, she had to support his weight.

Brian collapsed against her, his body bending her backward under his weight.

"Hey, wake up, Brian, don't pass out now. Just hold on." With considerable effort, Rachel managed to drag him onto the bed.

After tucking him in and just as she was about to dry her hair, her waist was abruptly pulled close.

Brian, now more like an affectionate puppy, nestled his head against her neck, his breath warm and steady.

In that moment, he seemed unusually tender and charming.

"Brian?" she whispered, seeking any sign of awareness.

He remained silent, offering no response.

It was clear he was drunk. Why else would he suddenly seem so endearing? Normally, when awake, he was more like a relentless wolf-always domineering and cold toward her.

Rachel watched him remain still and realized he had fallen asleep. She carefully tried to slip his hand away.

But the moment she stirred, he gripped her again, pleading, "Don't leave. Stay and hold me. I can't let you go." His embrace was firm, preventing her from pulling away.

Left with no option, Rachel reassured him gently, "Alright, I'll stayd just need to dry my hair quickly, then I'll be back, okay?" Her soothing words seemed to calm him, and he released her.

"Make it quick. I want you close when I fall asleep tonight." Rachel nodded. "Okay."

She felt a sweet sensation in her om heart despite knowing that this tender side of Brian only surfaced side of when he was drunk, and that he would likely forget everything by morning. Still, his need for her, this intense clinginess, brought her an unexplained joy.

Upon returning to the bed after drying her hair, she found Brian suddenly drawing her into his arms.

Unexpectedly, her towel slipped off as she was pulled closer.

In the dim room, her figure was nearly fully revealed.

Realizing this, her face turned crimson with embarrassment.

She quickly pulled the blanket up to cover herself.

But the damage had been done.

Brian's gaze on her was intense and burning. It seemed as though he wanted to devour her whole.

"You did that on purpose!" Brian said, his eyes blazing with emotion.

Panicked, Rachel quickly replied, “No, I didn't do it intentionally. You have to listen to the." Before she could continue, his lips claimed hers, silencing her words with a passionate kiss.