11: I Spy

It was the next day, and it was the day when Madelyn and Octavio would meet. Madelyn looked at herself in the mirror and wore a simple black dress that touched her knees with light brown heels. She also wore little makeup since she wasn’t too fond of it and curled up her hair. She got a call from Octavio earlier in the day, and he told her that he would take her to a small yet elegant restaurant.

When she was done getting herself ready, she went to the library and texted him that she was heading to the library; he responded that he was on his way. When the young woman arrived at the library, she looked at her phone, and it was 6 pm. Madelyn sat on the bench and waited for Octavio to arrive. While waiting, she couldn’t shake off the feeling of being watched. Madelyn looked around her, and no one looked suspicious. “I’m just nervous, that’s all.” About ten minutes later, Octavio arrived in his black Lamborghini; he exited the car and walked toward her.

His hair was slightly slicked back, he wore a long-sleeved white buttoned shirt, and a few buttons were undone. Beneath the white shirt, he wore a black undershirt. Octavio also wore black slacks and black dressy shoes. To Madelyn, he looked handsome and those male models in the magazines. Octavio smiled at the sight of her. “Good evening, Madelyn. You look rather lovely.” He then extended her something. “I bought you some flowers; I don’t know which one you like, so I bought you some daisies.”

Madelyn smiled; she got the flowers. No one has ever given her flowers, not even Xander; he would have gotten her something expensive. “Thank you, Octavio, you shouldn’t have. Though I am glad you bought daisies instead of roses.”

“I figured as much. You seem the type of person who prefers the simple things in life rather than roses. Well, are you ready to go?” He extended his left arm to her.

Madelyn took his arm and was led inside the car. Once inside, she put the daises on the bottom of her seat; Octavio sat on the driver’s seat. Once both were buckled in, they drove off to the road. There was hardly any traffic; the two drove freely. As for Madelyn, she was a bit silent. “So, which restaurant are we going to?”

“The restaurant is called Little Owl. It is a small place, and I already made reservations.”

“Hm, never heard of it, but it sounds good!”

About twenty minutes later, they arrived at their destination, Octavio parked the car, and the two got out. Quite a few people were standing in line to get into the restaurant, but Octavio led her to where the waiter waited for them. Then, they were ushered inside; the place was small but gave a welcoming vibe. The place made Madelyn feel comfortable and welcome. They were led to a small table for two next to the window, and the waiter had their orders taken, and they were left alone.

“This is a nice place. Do you come here often?”

Octavio smiled as he took a sip of his glass of water. “Sometimes, sadly, I don’t have as much time for myself as I used to. My friends and I used to come here together; this place holds good memories, and it made me feel at peace.”

“You never felt at peace before?” asked Madelyn as she sipped her water.

“As you know, I come from a rich family that revolves around money. It was draining. I was always drowned in expectations and never had the freedom to choose for myself.” He gave out a small sigh. “I feel that most of my life has been wasted. Many people think that when one is born into wealth, one is happy, but that is not always the case. I would have preferred to live where I had enough to live by and live peacefully.”

“You know, I believed rich people were snotty and arrogant assholes. When I grew older and became a little more knowledgeable and not to become too judgmental, my perception changed. Not all rich people are bad if they don’t let money and power change them to the worst. I think that you are one of the rare ones, Octavio. People like you give me hope in humanity.”

This made Octavio blush, and he turned to the window. No one has ever said something like that to him. As he was about to speak, the waiter arrived with their orders and then left. “You are sincere; I can see why…well…Xander had an interest in you.” Madelyn stilled when he mentioned Xander. When he looked at her, he noticed how tense she became. “Sorry, I shouldn’t have done that. I was speaking the truth. You see, Xander and I are not that different, family-wise, but with characters, that is a different story.” She nodded as she took a bite of her food. “Let’s change the subject. Tell me, what are your dreams? Your goals?”

Madelyn began to relax and began to speak. However, she and Octavio did not know that outside the restaurant, they were being watched.

12: Unexpected

Madelyn would never have imagined that Octavio was quite the conversationalist and had a sense a humor. Even though he was from a wealthy family, he was not as arrogant as she thought. Octavio was quite the opposite. They finished their dinner and decided to take a nice walk in the streets to put the food down. Once outside, Octavio motioned his right arm; Madelyn felt her face becoming warm. She got a hold of his arm, and they began to walk in the busy night streets. “That was delicious.”

Octavio smiled as he looked at his surroundings. “I am glad you liked it. It is simple, but usually, I’m not particularly eager to go out to fancy restaurants with good food. I feel the importance in those places is the appearance, not the food itself.”

“You know, I have read and seen images of how the wealthy would eat. Many would pay money on such a small amount of food instead of a decent amount for a good amount.”

He chuckled. “True, the small amount of food has better flavor than the rest, but it is not only the wealthy that would buy things for a ridiculous amount of money. I have known others who are not wealthy who would buy expensive shoes, clothes, and other things. In actuality, it is the brand that one buys, not the worthiness of how something works; all people, regardless of status.”

Madelyn nodded. “I agree. It is a sad reality that people would buy a brand to differentiate themselves from others, to feel that they are worthy in society. It is not what you have that should make you feel important, but what you do.”

They crossed a street, and when we got to the other side, they noticed a car driving and parked beside them. They stilled; Madelyn recognized the car. Octavio was about to respond, but the door opened.

It was Xander; his face was expressionless. It made Madelyn shiver violently. She thought Xander had forgotten about her and moved on, but his look told her otherwise. Xander walked before them; Madelyn held onto Octavio’s arm tighter. It was silent between all three of them. However, in what felt like an eternity, Octavio was the one to break it off. “Good evening, Xander.”

“Good evening, Octavio.”

“It is quite a coincidence to see you here, Xander.”

“Indeed, I see you are having a good time with my girlfriend.”

Madelyn couldn’t believe what Xander said. She also couldn’t believe how much in denial her ex was. He still thought they were still together; it made her realize that Xander was beyond his head. “If I remember correctly, Madelyn broke it off with you. I can also see that Madelyn is now uncomfortable, and I thought I would take her home.”

Xander stepped forward as he began to look angry. “That won’t be necessary; I will take her home. I need to speak to her about something.”

“I know Madelyn would not be comfortable. You-”

“Octavio, you should not meddle in affairs that do not concern you. Besides, there could be consequences if you don’t get out of my way.”

That was it; Madelyn felt she had to end this now with Xander. “Enough! Octavio will take me home. I will talk with you once I arrive home, Xander.” She didn’t want to go with Xander alone, and since she lived in an apartment, her neighbors would know and hear her if she called them. She was fortunate that her neighbors knew and got along with her. “It’s that or don’t come close to me.”

Xander was silent. “Fine, I will be waiting at your house.” He went back to his car and drove off.

Octavio led her back to his car. “Madelyn, this is not safe. He-”

“Don’t worry, my neighbors are cool with me. If something happens and they hear me scream, they will rescue me.”

“Still, I will be waiting outside if something happens. I will make sure to have a good hiding spot.” Madelyn nodded as they drove back to her apartment; deep down, she didn’t know what to expect.

13: Fear

Madelyn and Octavio finally arrived at the apartments. Octavio wanted to go with her, but Madelyn told him to stay put. Octavio nodded as he watched her go to the apartment complex and kept an eye out for Xander; he was nowhere in sight. However, the young man decided to stay in his car and keep an eye out for her.

When Madelyn arrived at her home, she opened the door and turned on the lights. Right as she was about to close the door, Xander appeared. His appearance was so sudden that Madelyn yelped. Xander entered without permission and closed the door behind him. The young woman immediately got space between them, and it was silent. Madelyn noticed that Xander still had an emotionless look; it terrified her. “I-I have my neighbors here. If you try anything, they will-” She couldn’t finish her statement since Xander immediately went to her, grabbed her, and then got a hold of Madelyn and pulled her to him. He then put his right hand behind her head and pulled her face to his; Xander’s lips kissed Madelyn’s lips.

The young woman was in shock with the sudden action. She froze as she felt Xander’s lips on hers, his tongue trying to gain entry. His arms and hands were all over her. He did not want to let her escape. She returned to her senses and began to push him back, but Xander would not budge. He still has his grip on her. “Xander, what are you-!?”

“I want you back, Madelyn! I can’t take it anymore. I have been living in torment that you are no longer with me. I love you so much that it hurts me. You are the only one that made me feel true love! You changed me, Madelyn.”

Madelyn tried to speak, but she could not. His words shocked her; she felt sadness and pity. She did not want to pity him since pity made situations worse. It would make one lie to satisfy the person. However, she remembered his actions and behavior and what would happen if she ever got together with him again. “I-I am sorry to have caused you so much pain, Xander. It was never my intention to. I want you to be happy. You-”

Xander hugged her tightly. She heard his heart beating rapidly. “You hear my heart; it beats like that whenever I think of you, whenever you are near.”

Madelyn felt tears forming in her eyes. She did not want to feel pity for him anymore. Most importantly, she did not want to cause him more pain. “Xander, please stop! I don’t want to hurt you anymore. We are not right for each other; we haven’t been together for long! Other women can make you happy more than I can.”

The young man forced her to look at him. “You are the only one that can make me happy. Only you. I can’t accept this! You even haven’t gotten my thoughts on this. Didn’t you care how I would have felt!?”

She struggled to escape his grip and felt tears forming in her eyes. “Stop! We can’t be together! This is not healthy! Please leave, or I will scream for help!” As she struggled, Xander’s grip became more arduous, and it then became painful.

Suddenly, Xander pushed her on the sofa and got on her. He then put her hands above her head. He then began to kiss her neck and cheeks and tried to kiss her lips. Madelyn moved away. Tears fell from her eyes. She felt fear like never before and struggled to escape his grip. “Xander, please stop!” He would not listen; he still kissed her everywhere. She screamed for help. Madelyn hoped that anyone heard her. Then, the door was kicked open; it was Octavio, and his face held rage. However, he was not alone; other neighbors nearby heard Madelyn screaming.

Octavio immediately entered, and Xander slowly got off Madelyn, but he didn’t move away from her.

“Hey dude, what the hell are you doing!? If you don’t leave, we’re gonna call the cops!” said one of the neighbors.

Octavio walked toward Madelyn and stood beside her, making Xander walk away. “Last warning, Xander. Leave, or the cops will be called. Also, never come near Madelyn again, or you have me to deal with.” Madelyn stood behind Octavio and stood beside him, shaking in fear.

Xander slowly made his way to the exit as he was getting glares from the other neighbors; some wanted to fight. However, he paid no mind to them but looked at Madelyn’s trembling form. “You made your choice, but it is not over. You still reject me and will face the consequences of your actions. You have my word. He got out of the apartment, and her neighbors eyed him and then to Madelyn. Many neighbors asked her if she was okay and wanted them to call the cops.

She did not answer them as Octavio hugged her. “It’s okay. You’re safe now. However, it’s best that you don’t stay here. Xander knows of this place, and we don’t know his plans. If you want, you can stay in a hotel that I own. I will stay in one of the rooms nearby if you want.”

Madelyn merely nodded as she thanked her neighbors and told them to return home. Many were hesitant, but with Octavio’s insistence, they all left. Once gone, Octavio helped Madelyn pack some of her belongings. He never would have imagined that Xander would act upon his worst impulses. He saw why Madelyn broke up with him; he was too dangerous. Xander also made threats, and Octavio couldn’t help but fear that the worst was yet to come.

14: The News

It had been a month since Xander arrived at her apartment, and she hadn’t seen or heard from him since that day. However, she couldn’t rely on that he would not try something again. To her, Xander was beyond insane and dangerous. She was still in the hotel Octavio recommended, and he was always by her side. He told her not to worry about anything financial since he would take care of it. Madelyn still went to work, but Octavio or someone who worked for him picked her up and took her to the hotel.

During her stay, she couldn’t help but feel safe with Octavio. He was pretty different from Xander in so many ways. Octavio allowed me to have her space, and he ensured she was okay and would protect her if she was ever in need.

Both would go to a cafe or somewhere small so as not to create too much attention and to be cautious. Since there was nothing of Xander, Madelyn wanted to return to her apartment. Octavio was still hesitant, but he respected her wishes and took her back to her apartment. He even helped her speak with the apartment manager, who heard about the situation. The manager was nice not to charge her for the entire month she missed.

Once back in the apartment, many of her neighbors noticed and welcomed her back. Once back home, Octavio helped her get situated. His time with Madelyn was enjoyable, and he was slightly disappointed that he would not see her as often. They had so much in common, and she never asked him for anything despite her knowing about his wealth. He took a deep breath. “Madelyn, I know this is sudden, but my time with you has been fun. I-I want to ask if you would go out with me, like an actual date, to see if you want something serious. I know it is difficult for you to choose because of Xander, but I am patient and await your response.”

Madelyn was surprised by Octavio’s suddenness but couldn’t deny that she had a wonderful time with Octavio. She didn’t want her experience with Xander to ruin her perception of men and dating; she didn’t want to live in fear. “Yeah, that would be great.”

The young man smiled and felt relieved. Would you like to go out tonight? We can do something simple today.”

“Sure, I want to change first.”

“Sure, I will be waiting in the living room. You don’t mind me using the TV, do you? Not at all. Use all you want.”

Madelyn closed her room door and began changing into a new pair of clothes. She wore long, dark blue tight jeans and black low heels. Her hair was straightened; Madelyn wore a white tank top with a black jean jacket and a white flower on the right side of her hair. She also wore a silver necklace and earrings, as well as a little bit of makeup.

She was ready and was now waiting for her date, Octavio. As she left her room, she saw Octavio standing before the television. That was when Madelyn heard the news.“Breaking News: Xander announces that he is in a relationship!”

Madelyn felt utterly relieved from her thoughts when she heard that. She couldn’t believe that Xander could have found someone else. Octavio saw this, too, and he immediately turned off the television when he saw her. “You look nice,” he said.

“Thank you. I heard the news. Do you think Xander moved on?”

“I’m not sure, but we can’t conclude yet. We still have to be vigilant. Come on, let’s go and enjoy ourselves. The couple got out of the apartment and went to Octavio’s car, and he decided to go to a movie theater, which Madelyn agreed with. When they arrived, they chose to watch a horror movie that lasted an hour and thirty minutes. After the film, they went to a small Japanese restaurant, where they ate their food comfortably. They spoke about the movie, how they felt, and more about their jobs.

“I had a wonderful time, Octavio.”

“Same here. If you are interested, I want to take you to a nice fair tomorrow.”

Madelyn smiled. “I would love to; I haven’t been in a fair for so long.”

The two finished their food, paid, and were about to go to the car when they heard screaming. “THERE SHE IS!” yelled a group of people with cameras. They took pictures of her and Octavio. “ARE YOU MADELYN!? HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH XANDER!? IS IT TRUE THAT YOU ARE IN A RELATIONSHIP!?” The paparazzi asked so many questions. Madelyn was shocked, but Octavio immediately took action as he led her to his car while they were being filmed and had their picture taken. Once Octavio was inside the car, he drove, getting away from the paparazzi.

“What the hell was that!?” she yelled.

“I don’t know, Madelyn; I bet Xander is behind this. I guess he hasn’t forgotten you completely and is using cowardly manners. I will go see what he is trying to do.”

Madelyn did not say anything. She was nervous about what would occur.

15: Sanity

Octavio dropped Madelyn off at her apartment and drove off to his destination. He had a hunch that Xander was in his house. Octavio luckily knew where the CEO lived since Xander did a lot of business parties in his home; he’d been there a couple of times. Octavio has spoken to Xander several times during these parties, mostly about business.

Now that he was seeing Madelyn, he became more involved and saw a side of Xander that he’d never seen before. The young man knew that he was putting himself in danger, but Madelyn was so innocent that he couldn’t leave her alone to face such a monster; he sped on.

Meanwhile, Xander sat on his sofa in his living room, watching the television. The channel he was watching was TMZ; sure enough, he saw Madelyn, but she wasn’t alone. Xander also saw Octavio with her, and it made his blood boil. On the other hand, he should have expected that it would occur. As Xander watched the news, he felt hurt that she moved on, not caring how he felt. Yet, as he kept on watching, he noticed the surprised look on her face.

He smirked. Xander sipped his cup of whiskey as he enjoyed seeing her suffer. “She will soon learn how it feels.” Suddenly, his quiet space was interrupted by a knock on his door. “Enter.”

It was one of his bodyguards. “Sir, a man called Octavio Vanderbilt is outside. He said that he wishes to speak with you.”

Xander raised an amused eyebrow. He couldn’t believe Octavio arrived at his home. The CEO thought he would get angry, but he couldn’t help but be impressed by the young man’s dedication.

“Should I send him away, sir?”

“No, send him in. Is there anyone else with him?”

“No, sir, it is just him.”

The CEO motioned the bodyguard to let Octavio enter his home. He was disappointed that Madelyn was not here but should have expected the latter. A moment later, Octavio entered. Two bodyguards were outside the living room, keeping a watchful eye on Octavio. The two men were before one another, but Xander kept looking at the TMZ news that spoke more about him and his possible relationship with Madelyn.

“Enjoying the lie you made up?” asked Octavio.

“What lie are you speaking of?”

Octavio’s hands formed into fists.“Don’t play stupid, Xander. That is beneath you, even to a person like you! Why are you doing this to Madelyn?”

Xander did not answer; he took another sip of his whiskey. “Why? What a ridiculous question. Madelyn had the nerve to try to break up with me after all I had done for her. She must be reminded of her simple mistake; she belongs to me. Plain and simple.”

“She belongs to no one but herself. You treat her as an object instead of a human being. I can see why she left you.” Octavio noticed Xander giving out a slight flinch, and he knew that he had hit a nerve. He also couldn’t believe Xander’s way of thinking; it made him wonder if the CEO lost his sanity.

Then, Xander turned his head slowly to face Octavio and stood from his seat. “She left me because she was confused. She didn’t realize my true intentions. She will eventually see the error of her ways; Madelyn will return to me.”

Octavio stood still. He knew that Xander was ruthless in the business world. He could intimidate many people to get what he wanted, but this was different. It was worse than Octavio could have imagined. He also realized that Madelyn was in extreme danger. “You truly have become insane. You refuse to accept the truth that Madelyn said no to you. You want to possess her like a doll. You have lost your sanity.”

Xander did not seem fazed by Octavio’s comments. “If you have nothing further to speak about, then leave. I want to be left in my comfort.” He snapped his fingers, and the two bodyguards motioned Octavio to begin to walk out.

“You will not get Madelyn. I will protect her with everything I have. I promise you that.” Octavio walked away, leaving Xander alone.

He chuckled. “What a meaningless promise.”

16: Attempt

Five days passed, and Madelyn could not take it anymore; the news was nonstop on the television. She could not work for a while, and there were times when the paparazzi would follow her and ask her questions. Octavio tried to help the best he could, but his help alone was insufficient. He even tried to call the CEO of the news company, but the CEO was not helpful either. However, Octavio did inform her that he thought that the CEO acted a bit strange. It was as if he was nervous if he tried to help.

Both knew that Xander was involved and probably threatened the CEO. Madelyn believed it was best to meet Xander face to face, but Octavio advised against it. Yet, she could not take her privacy being taken away from her anymore. Madelyn wanted to bring the nightmare to an end. She was in her room and had gotten a hold of her cell phone. Madelyn looked at the phone and felt hesitant, but there were no other options if she wanted her peace. She dialed a phone number and heard the other line ring. Each ring made her heart pound.

Then…

There was an answer.

“Hello?”

Madelyn stilled as she felt her heart was about to leave her chest. “Xander.”

It was silent on the other end, but he spoke a few seconds later. “Madelyn.”

“We need to talk. I want to meet.”

“For what, if I may ask?”

Madelyn sighed. “Please, you know the reason. Can we meet, please?”

“…Very well, where?”

“Here, in my apartment. It is quieter, but you know my neighbors have my back if you try something again.”

She heard him chuckle on the other end. “Very well, I will see you there.”

Both hung up, and the young woman couldn’t believe what she decided to do. A part of her thought it was a dumb idea, but she couldn’t sit around and not try to de-escalate the situation. Madelyn paced in her living room and waited for Xander. About thirty minutes later, there was a knock on the door. Madelyn went and opened the door.

It was Xander.

He wore a black business suit, slacks, and black shoes; a buttoned-down white shirt was beneath. Cold air filled the apartment; Madelyn motioned him to enter, and he did so. Neither said a word as Madelyn closed the door. Xander stood in the center of the living room, facing Madelyn.

“Xander…” He turned; his face was emotionless. Xander did not speak as his eyes were on her. She knew this was a way for him to hold his power over her. The CEO was part of the business world and faced and destroyed many of his rivals; she knew she didn’t have much against him. However, she refused to succumb to his demands. “Why are you doing this?” When there was no answer, Madelyn let out a frustrated sigh. “I know you are behind all of this; even Octavio knows. All because I broke things off between us?” She shook her head. “Why can’t you accept it, Xander!? You are not only hurting me but also yourself! You are putting yourself out there. You are part of the lie that you created!”

Xander then began to walk closer to her. Madelyn had the urge to move away but decided to stand her ground. She did not want him to win. Both were before one another. “I told you that this is not over. I am hurting you as you hurt me, the pain you caused me.”

Madelyn’s eyes became wide open. Xander then got a hold of a strand of her hair. “This will not stop, Madelyn, unless…”

“Unless what?”

He slowly got a part of her hair and gently touched it before letting it go. “Unless you come back to me. If you still refuse, I will take your privacy away. No matter what you do or say, I will not accept. You have no power over me.” He smiled as he let go of her hair. “That is my only condition. I will give you time to think about it. In the meantime, this will continue to happen. Until then.” Xander walked out of the apartment, leaving Madelyn alone, shocked. The young woman could not believe it. Xander was taking her life away, and there was no escape, only if she gave herself to him.

She did not know what to do and prayed for a miracle.

17: Acceptance

It was the next day, and Madelyn woke up from her sleep. Her body didn’t feel too relaxed since she only slept three hours due to the stress of the Xander situation. She got her phone to look up any messages and emails. When looking at her email app, there was a notification that she received an email. Once she looked at her email, her eyes widened. She received an update on her application to teach abroad.

Madelyn immediately sat up and clicked on the email, and read it. Her hands slowly began to tremble; her eyes and lips widened. “I-I am accepted to the program! I can’t believe this!” she screamed joyfully while hopping. After so much stress and suffering, her prayers were answered; she could teach abroad.

Looking at the email, she could teach for one year, and if they liked her, they would help her pay for her education. It was a dream come true. She got out her phone and texted Octavio if they could meet later in the afternoon. It was still early in the morning, and he would take time to see her text, but she was patient.

The morning arrived and went; it was 4 p.m., and Octavio was finished at work. He had many meetings to attend, which made him have a headache. When he finally looked at his phone, he saw that Madelyn sent him a message. It stated that she had important news to tell him and if he could come by later. Octavio texted back and told her he would be there soon. The young man exited the building, got to his car, and drove to Madelyn’s apartment. To his luck, traffic wasn’t as bad, making him get to Madelyn’s place sooner. About 30 minutes later, he arrived and parked close to the apartment complex. Luckily, no Paparazzi or anyone in the entertainment industry bothered him or Madelyn.

He got to her apartment and gently knocked on the door, awaiting her response. After what seemed like an eternity, she opened the door. She sighed in relief. “I’m glad it’s you, Octavio. I thought you were…you know…”

“Don’t worry. It’s me. Sorry I didn’t answer your text sooner; I was busy with meetings and such,” he said while entering the apartment. Once inside, he noticed some Italian takeout on the table, which intrigued him. “What’s going on here? You have so much food that it could feed a village.”

Madelyn blushed and smiled. “Well, I wanted to tell you I have received some news. Great news.”

“Which is?”

Madelyn took out her phone and handed it to Octavio. “Some time ago, I signed up to teach abroad, and today, I received this letter saying that I got accepted. I thought this could be a good chance to escape to another country and live at peace for a while, hoping this charade would end.”

Octavio was surprised. However, he noticed the happiness in Madelyn’s eyes. She seemed to want to go abroad to pursue her dream of teaching. He was a bit sad and concerned, but if this would protect her from Xander, who was he to stop her? “Are you planning to go?”

“Yes, but I will think of this very carefully.”

“How long will you be abroad?”

“About a year, but I will be coming back.” She noticed the look of uncertainty on his face. Deep down, she felt terrible as she began to like him. Madelyn wondered if he held any feelings toward her or if he felt pity for her. “I’m sorry, it’s just that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and it would look good on my resume. I could even get financial assistance to help me more with my education. I-I know this is sudden, and you helped me out a lot. I-”

She was interrupted when Octavio hugged her; his hug was warm, making her feel safe. “Whatever you decide, I will support you either way. All I want is for you to be happy.” He separated from the hug. However, you and I will keep in contact while you stay abroad. Also, before you go, will you let me take you out more? I like you very much and want us to become more than friends.”

“O-Octavio, do you mean?”

He nodded. “I would be more than happy to wait for you. Who knows, I can visit you in whatever country you teach. I would also be happy to donate to the organization as long as it is to help the students. Will you be okay with that?”

Madelyn hugged him tighter, gathered her courage, and gave him a peck on his lips, making the young man blush. “Yes, I accept. Thank you, Octavio.”

18: Catching

It has been three weeks; Madelyn and Octavio would still meet but secretly. The paparazzi were still relentless, but the couple would find ways to escape their nosey cameras. Since Madelyn received her acceptance letter to be in the program abroad, she could not refuse such an offer. The couple learned she would leave within two months, so Madelyn needed to prepare for her trip abroad. It was agreed that Octavio would go and stay with her for a week until she got situated and would return to the States.

Octavio supported her full-heartedly. He helped her find good plane tickets and other things to travel abroad. Even though it pained him to let her go, even after he began to like her, Octavio felt that keeping her in a place where she was no longer safe would be selfish. Xander was relentless when it came to getting what he wanted.

Octavio feared that Xander would try to make a move sooner or later. He was at his office now; he had just come from visiting Madelyn, and she was very excited at the opportunity, even though it was a couple of months away. Yet, the young heir promised to get Madelyn abroad before Xander found out. He wanted her to go and be safe. Luckily, Octavio had friends in other parts of the world and knew they would not hesitate to help.

At the moment, he was emailing the program manager to see if Madelyn could go sooner. He hoped that there would be no trouble.

Meanwhile, it was mid-afternoon when Xander arrived at his mansion. He was exhausted from the meetings but even more exhausted because Madelyn was not giving up on the pressure. His colleague informed him that the paparazzi were getting tired. However, Xander was no fool. He had other plans just in case all didn’t go according to plan.

A sigh escaped his lips. “I need a shower.” Xander went to his room and then towards the bathroom, removing his clothes and leaving him naked. The young man turned on the shower and got inside. The warm water hit his entire body; he felt free.

His thoughts then trailed on Madelyn. He thought about what went wrong and why Madelyn broke up with him. It made him angry and hurt that she wanted to leave him. Xander found it unacceptable. He then looked down and saw his cock. It had been a while since he laid with a woman. Xander wanted to have sex with Madelyn while they were in a relationship, but she was hesitant.

Xander knew she was still pure and innocent; he did not want any other man to have her. He grabbed his cock and began to move his hand up and down. Xander groaned in pleasure and imagined Madelyn giving him the pleasure. Xander closed his eyes. He was pleasuring himself. He then touched his muscular chest, and his breathing became rapid. Xander was getting closer and closer.

He arched his head back. “Madelyn!” He came on the bathroom walls. Xander opened his eyes and looked at his semen trailing down the wall. He growled, got out of the shower, and dried himself. The young CEO got to his room and his phone on. It seemed that he got a text message. When he looked, it was from one of his spies, and as Xander looked at the message, he felt his eyes were about to pop out.

The CEO could not believe what he was reading.; Madelyn was going abroad. That was something he could not and will not allow. He was through being nice and pressuring her. He had to get his hands dirty and forcefully take what he wanted.

19: Taken

Two months passed, and tomorrow was Madelyn’s big day to go abroad. Madelyn was beyond excited since she always dreamed of traveling abroad while working and studying. She knew this would be a long and challenging path, but the experience would make her stronger and even more independent.

Octavio would get out of work to take her out to eat and help prepare her for her trip tomorrow. Madelyn knew that he wouldn’t tell her where they were going, so she decided to stop asking, and she was preparing herself for later. She was in her room and changed into a lovely yellow dress with flower decorations and a thin, light brown belt on her waist. She also put a fake sunflower pin to hold two thin braids on the back of her hair.

She went to the living room to wait for Octavio and decided to watch a movie on Netflix. To her surprise, the paparazzi and news weren’t as hectic with her and Xander’s situation. Madelyn wondered if Octavio had something to do with it or if the paparazzi had enough since they weren’t getting anything from her. However, it didn’t matter to her since she would be out of the country soon; her nightmare would end.

Madelyn also wouldn’t see Xander, which relieved her. She hoped he would forget or move on since she would be abroad. Octavio told her not to put much on social media since Xander might be on the lookout. As the young woman waited, there was a knock on the door. “It must be Octavio. Coming!” She walked toward the door and unlocked the door, but she didn’t look at the peephole. As Madelyn opened the door, the door was forcefully opened, and two men entered with guns pointed at her.

Shock and fear overwhelmed her, and she was about to scream, but she didn’t know that another man had come through her bedroom window and walked behind her. The men wore human-like masks that looked very realistic. The man behind Madelyn covered her mouth as he had a firm grip on her.

Madelyn squirmed and tried to get out of the man’s grip but then smelled a scent. She also felt something wet; it was a rag. That was when she realized it was chloroform and struggled more, but she was slowly losing consciousness. “Ocatav…io, h-h-hellllp….”

Everything became dark, and the men took Madelyn, covered her with a carpet-like blanket, pretended they were workers, and walked out of the apartment.

Meanwhile, Xander waited for his men to return with his prize, Madelyn. He knew she would go to the airport today and ordered his men to take Madelyn. At the moment, he was in his home looking out the window from his room while drinking a bottle of whiskey. It has been two hours since he sent his men to retrieve what was his.

As he waited, he noticed several vehicles coming to his home. He felt excited, for he told his men he would be called if they failed or something went wrong. None of that happened, which meant that everything went according to plan. From afar, he saw that Madelyn was on the shoulder of one of the men; he smiled. He opened the door; the men entered. Xander ordered that Madelyn be put in the room he chose for her. Her leg was chained but the chains were long enough where she would still be able to walk around a certain distance. He paid his men, and they left, leaving him and Madelyn alone.

Sooner or later, she woke up, and he needed to be prepared. He sat on a chair and awaited her to wake up.

Another hour passed, and Madelyn began to wake up. Her head was filled with pain as she regained her eyesight and saw she was in a room. Confusion hit her. She remembered the men with the guns. She sat up and noticed that she was in a room she did not recognize and that her right leg was chained. As Madelyn looked around her, she stilled in fear as she saw him. The man she never wanted to see again. “You! Xander, what are you-!?”

He sat with his arms crossed and smirked. “I am glad you are awake and well. I was worried you would have gotten hurt.”

“Why am I here?! What happened!?”

“You are home where you belong. Where you have always belonged.”

Madelyn shook her head, and that was when she realized everything. “Don’t tell me you did all this!?”

Xander applauded. “Well done. Quite intelligent, as I have admired about you. Yes, I could not allow what belonged to me to get away. Like I told you before, you belong to me.”

“You are crazy!”

“Crazy? Perhaps, but for you. I am doing what any man would do for the woman he loves. I am just taking the extra step for you.”

Madelyn felt as if she was going to explode. She tried to find the right words, but nothing came out. She then yelled for help and noticed Xander chuckle. “Cute, but it is pointless. No one can hear you. I made many preparations for your arrival. You will not escape me, my love.” He stood from his seat and was about to leave the room. Before he left, Xander looked at her. “I will order takeout, for I know you will be hungry. Once we finish eating, there will be time for us. You should have never rejected me, my love. Now you will eventually know how much I love you.” He left.

Madelyn felt fear and screamed with all her might, but nothing came out. She f nally accepted that she was kidnapped and her captor was obsessed with her. A dangerous obsession he held for her. She h ped that Octavio would know soon that she was taken away.

20: The Dark

Madelyn was alone in the room for what seemed like an eternity. During her lonesome, she did something she had never thought she would do: pray.

The young woman wasn’t religious, but now she was in her predicament; she prayed for her to escape Xander and be free from him. The young woman knelt by the bed, her head by her hands. Never in her life had she felt so much fear. Madelyn thought that she had to hold on to the one thing to help her survive hope.

As she finished praying, so many thoughts went through her head.

What if she was never rescued?

What if Xander would keep her locked up?

She asked so many questions that it made her cry. She was still locked in her room; it was already night outside. Her stomach growled out of hunger. Slowly, she stood, walking around the room, trying to think of ideas for escaping. The windows were closed and locked shut. She tried opening them and kicking the windows open, but they were hard as stone.

Xander planned this. It made her desperate, but deep down, she had to keep calm. Her thoughts were interrupted when the door opened. It was Xander, holding two boxes of Chinese food takeout. He smiled while Madelyn shivered in disgust. “I bought us some takeout; I know how much you like Chinese food.” Xander closed and locked the door shut as he put the food on a table nearby.

Madelyn looked away. “I’m not hungry.”

Xander shook his head. “You are not a very good liar, my love. It has been quite a day for both of us.”

The young woman glared at him. “You are insane! You act as if you have done nothing wrong! You did! You kidnapped me against my will, and I am here against my will! I never wanted to be here, especially not with you!”

Xander extended the chairs and motioned her to sit, but Madelyn refused. Instead, she turned and went by the window, refusing to look at him. For Xander, he saw her action as cute, but he did not have time for games. He went to her, got a hold of her arm in a friendly manner, and forced her to sit by the table. “If you refuse to eat, I will force the food down your throat. Please don’t make me use drastic measures, my love. I don’t wish to hurt you.” A shiver went through Madelyn’s spine. To her, Xander looked calm and collected on the outside, but deep down, he held so much evil. Slowly, she began to eat the food and would not look at him once. It was silent between them as they ate their food. “It has been a while since we have eaten together,” said Xander.

Madelyn merely nodded in response. She then felt and saw his hand caressing hers. She wanted to slap it off but slowly removed her hand and laid it on her leg. The two finished eating, and Madelyn immediately went to bed. “I wish to go to sleep.”

Xander eyed her carefully and stood from his seat. “I know you are not, my love. Since I went through so much trouble to finally have you by my side. I want to reap my rewards. You don’t know how much I have missed you. You don’t know how much you had broken my heart when you left me.”

The young woman shivered.

“I was angry and hated you, but then I realized you were just confused. You did not know what you were doing, for you did not see how much I truly loved and cared about you.”

Madelyn could not believe what she was hearing; to her, Xander sounded insane. “Xander, please. I want to rest.” Then, she felt a weight on the bed and immediately sat up. Xander was on the bed with her. Then, Xander immediately got on top of her and held her hand on top of her. “X-Xander, what are you-!?”

He kissed her hard and with want. Madelyn tried to move away, but he was too strong for her. “Now, I will show you how much you mean to me.”

“No! No! No!”

Xander got on top of Madelyn and got a hold of her hands. He put his weight on her as Madelyn struggled to move and get away from him. “Get off of me!”

This made the young man upset and hurt. “Madelyn, why do you even try to resist me? After all I have told you. I love you with all my heart and soul. It hurts me so much that I could break into tiny pieces.” His grip on her tightened, and Madelyn flinched. “After all I have done to have you, this is how you react.” He shook his head. “Now you will know how much I love you.”

Suddenly, he began to kiss her neck; this made the young woman afraid. She did not want him to touch her in such a way. That was when so many thoughts were going through her head.

She was going to be raped.

She was going to be his prisoner.

Tears formed in her eyes; she then felt his lips on her. Xander’s kiss terrified her to the bone. His kiss was filled with dominance, possessiveness, desperation, and obsession all in one kiss. Madelyn moved her head out of the way, making the kiss end.

This confused Xander, but it also made him upset. “Why-” He did not finish his question. He lost focus when Madelyn got one of her hands free, punched him across the face, and kneed him on the stomach. This shocked the man; it made him get off of her.

Madelyn saw this as an opportunity. She got off the bed and began to run. Madelyn unlocked the bedroom door. She struggled with adrenaline and fear but managed and ran out. She ran down a pair of stairs.

As the scared woman was running, she heard Xander yelling for her. Then, to her horror, he began to chase her. Madelyn began to run faster to the exit of the house. She tried to open the door as she got there, but there were many locks. She knew she would not have time, so she saw a half-opened window nearby and ran as fast as her legs and feet could.

Hope filled her as she got to the window and was about to jump out. Suddenly, she felt a hard hold on her arm, pulling her inside. She was about to scream, but her lips were covered by another hand.

Xander got her and gave her the evilest glare he could muster. He kicked the window closed. “You tried to escape. You tried to leave me,” he said with a quiet, deadly whisper.

Madelyn tried to struggle, but Xander held her onto his shoulder, leading her to another part of his home. She kicked and hit as much as possible, but Xander would not budge. He then punched her bottom, making Madelyn squeal in pain. Then, they both made it to what looked like a basement. Xander opened the door and dropped Madelyn on the floor. He then closed the door and locked all the locks.

Madelyn was shrouded in darkness and could not see anything. There was no light. “Let me out!” she screamed.

“You need to be taught a lesson, Madelyn. I am upset that you tried to escape. You will be there until I see fit. You need to think about your actions.” He walked away, leaving a screaming Madelyn in the small, dark basement he had made just for her.