Victor's mind raced, overwhelmed by intense feelings and struggling to maintain control as his instincts screamed to close the distance. His eyes searched Kaylee's for any sign of hesitation, any hint that this moment wasn't right, but he found none.
Just as his lips were about to touch hers, his breath mingling with hers, a hint of caramel fragrance from Kaylee's lips reached his senses, traveling all the way to his brain. Instantly, his sober mind regained control, and the clouding desire in his eyes dissipated.
Unable to pull away in time, but determined not to cross Kaylee's boundary at the very last minute – a line he was committed to respecting, Victor immediately turned his face to the left, resting his right cheek on Kaylee's right temple instead of kissing her.
Kaylee, her senses returning, took a deep breath, her face flushed with embarrassment. She felt ashamed for hoping something would happen and for not pushing Victor away.
But what Victor said next melted her heart.
"Please forgive me..." His husky voice, heavy with regret, whispered near her right ear. He felt truly sorry for losing his self-control and pushing things so far.
He released his hold on Kaylee's cheek and hand, taking two heavy steps backward, his face downcast. He felt as though he had destroyed the trust and rapport he had carefully built with Kaylee through his lack of self-control.
Fear gripped him – the fear of losing Kaylee forever. His face was marked by regret, his shoulders slumped in defeat, and his hands trembled uncontrollably as he clenched them into fists.
Kaylee’s heart ached at the sight of him. After a few tense seconds of reflection, now with a clear mind, she gathered her courage and approached Victor, reaching for his trembling hands.
At her touch, Victor looked up, confusion and hope mingling in his eyes.
"I understand what happened," she said gently, her eyes softening with a smile. "I'm deeply sorry too for not stepping away when I should have."
Victor’s eyes widened in surprise at her understanding.
Kaylee continued, "Thank you so much for always trying your best to respect me and cherish me. Temptations are real in any relationship, because that's how God designed us man and woman, created in His image, to become one, just as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are one God."
Victor listened attentively, his emotions settling as he took in her words. He looked at Kaylee earnestly, ready to navigate this new journey of love together.
"And it's true that this beautiful gift of union between a man and a woman is meant to be cherished within the sacredness and safety of a committed marriage. So what you've been doing in respecting our boundaries and protecting me is noble, and I truly appreciate that," she explained patiently.
"But, if we find it hard to control our desires, I think it might be best if I move back to my apartment soon," she suggested, her smile gentle.
Victor squeezed her hands lightly, understanding and agreeing with what Kaylee had said. But he hoped, with all his heart, that he could keep her around for the rest of the week.
Victor sincerely didn’t want Kaylee to be alone before she fully recovered, despite knowing Corinna would be around. Deep down, he felt Corinna was more like a caregiver, while his presence would offer familial comfort to Kaylee until her parents returned.
"I really hope to stay around until your parents come back," Victor said earnestly. "But I want you to know I'll respect your decision if you prefer to move back sooner."
Kaylee's smile deepened, she knew Victor better now. His care and concern for her had become something Kaylee expected, but never taken for granted.
Taking a deep breath, she thoughtfully considered the matter before speaking. "Since we’re hosting dinner with Xiang Er and Gavin this Friday, I'll stay for now. And meanwhile, we both learn to manage any temptation. Consider this a training ground for us. I believe if we overcome it well, it will lay a stronger foundation for our relationship moving forward."
She looked at Victor, seeking his opinion. "What do you think?"
Victor nodded lightly, his face reflecting appreciation. "Let’s do that," he said. He felt a sense of pride in Kaylee’s intelligence, calmness, and ability to handle matters thoughtfully.
Then, his expression shifted to one of embarrassment. Kaylee noticed and chuckled at the rare, endearing side of Victor.
"Don't think too much. We let things progress naturally. For now, let's get some rest. We have a lot of work ahead tomorrow, um?" she comforted him.
He nodded again, "Good night and sweet dreams, Kaylee. Thank you again for everything."
"Thank you too, Victor. Night," she replied, then steadily opened her door to enter her room.
But as soon as the door closed behind her, the calmness on her face gave way to a pink blush that spread to her cheeks and ears. She leaned against the door, tilting her head back with her eyes closed, processing the events that had almost transpired.
One thing she particularly knew she had to address was her attitude about Victor kissing her – although it didn't happen in the end. She was very clear that she didn't avoid it. In fact, she was ready for it.
She was clear about her boundaries: while she didn't mind cuddling or moderate kissing in a serious relationship, she wanted to avoid escalating intimacy before marriage. Staying away from even the initial steps of intimacy seemed wise if they were serious about maintaining sexual purity before getting married.
What truly shocked her was her own readiness. She felt speechless and, in a way, amazed, at that realization. It had taken years to seal away her longing for love and affection, but Victor had effortlessly melted that barrier in just a week – excluding the days she was unconscious in the hospital.
Where was the disgust and strong rejection she used to feel when any man approached her romantically? She now realized that Victor had grown closer without evoking any dislike or discomfort. In fact, she had been thoroughly enjoying his presence and care, everything just felt so natural and comfortable to her, like that was how it should be between the two of them.
Having calmed down a bit more, Kaylee seriously considered Victor’s proposal of marriage.
Marriage had once been her most beautiful dream, cherished since childhood. But after the painful end of her first relationship seven years ago, it became a distant and fearful thought. The betrayal and unfaithfulness she had endured left deep scars, making her hesitant to hope for such happiness again.
Yet, now, as she revisited the idea of a relationship with Victor – possibly even marrying him – she found no trace of reluctance. Instead, a strange but wonderful feeling emerged in her heart. It was as if she looked forward to it. Yes, she truly looked forward to becoming his wife for a lifetime.
This newfound clarity brought her a profound sense of peace. Her chaotic emotions settled, and she felt an overwhelming calmness.
Facing her heart honestly, she resolved to share her feelings with her parents and discuss the possibility of marriage with them.
She walked over to her small table, opened her spiritual journal, and began writing with her pink pen.
"Oh LORD, thank You for healing my heart and setting me free to begin a new relationship. Search my heart and show me where I have done wrong today, I ask that You forgive me for my sins, as I"...
Her writing paused, and then she continued with renewed determination, "forgive Ken completely for what he did to me. Help me release any unforgiveness I might still hold. Heal every pain and trauma within me, in the name of Jesus, by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Grant me a new heart and trust to build a new life with Victor, if it is Your will. If not, please close all doors to this relationship. Speak to me through my parents and Victor’s family about Your will for us to marry, or otherwise."
As she concluded her prayer, Kaylee felt a lightness in her heart and joy filling her entire being. She had never felt so free and truly happy in years. She finished her prayer and went to bed, deeply relaxed.
Unbeknownst to her, Victor remained outside her door for a very, very long time. He saw her shadow remain at the door through the crack after she entered her room.
He was filled with a swirl of thoughts: Is she truly alright? Have I actually disappointed her? Did she regret her decision to stay until Friday?
***
Victor tossed and turned in bed, unable to fall asleep. Staring at the ceiling with his left arm draped over his forehead, he was lost in deep thought. Why had he lost control? Hann’s earlier words came to mind. The next moment, in frustration, he closed his eyes and rolled his eyes in his heart. Now he got it – why movie nights often led couples to intimate gestures. Despite all his efforts not to have such a thought of taking advantage of Kaylee, still he ended up becoming like one of those guys who set up movie nights with an agenda.
He groaned in frustration. Suddenly, his eyes lit up as an idea struck him. After a moment of hesitation, he reached for his phone next to his pillow, which was quiet and notification-free since he had turned off the Wi-Fi during his sleep time. Sitting up, he opened the Contacts app, searched for a contact labeled "FD," and tapped the Call button.
The phone rang for over seven seconds, and he remained patient. Finally, the call was answered. A mature, stern voice came through, tinged with dissatisfaction. "Mm? I thought you'd forgotten about me."
Victor hesitated for a moment before responding. "Dad," he took a deep breath, "I want to get married." He heard a faint clatter on the other end – sounded like a utensil falling onto a table – as he continued firmly, "I hope you won’t stop me."
On the other side of the line, Ford Dylan was savoring his after-dinner tea in his Sheffield mansion when he heard his son's astonishing confession. This was the same son who had never shown any interest in women, except for the one he’d caught in his arms at the charity auction – his self-perceived future daughter-in-law. Ford raised an eyebrow, intrigued. Wait, is this the woman he's planning to marry?
Despite his excitement, Ford masked his enthusiasm behind his ever-strict demeanor and teased calmly, "Waa... can’t even wait until I come back next month, can you?"
Then, a thought struck him, and his eyes widened with concern. His voice rose with alarm, "Wait, did you get her pregnant? What did your mom and I teach you, huh?" He lectured, making sure his words were clear, "Never touch a woman until she’s your wife." His tone softened as he continued, his eyebrows furrowed, "What did you do to her?"
Victor’s frustration flared at the accusation. "I wish I could do more, Dad," he said. "And yes, I'm waiting for the day but," he paused and his voice suddenly became softer, tinged with defeat, "it's just so hard, Dad. I can't control myself and I almost hurt her tonight."
Ford's expression softened, he knew his son wasn’t the type to be reckless, but he was just worried, who knows, just in case.
"Son, you've dedicated your whole life to building the Langford Group, missing out on many experiences that other young people have. I'm so proud of you, and now I'm very happy to see you've found someone. I trust your judgment, and I have only my blessings to give you. Go get her," Ford encouraged warmly.
Victor's heart swelled with confidence and relief. He had hoped for his father's blessing, but was prepared to move forward regardless.
Calling Dad tonight was the right thing to do, he assured himself silently. "Thanks, Dad. But I’m still waiting to hear how she feels about my proposal."
"What would your mom do?" Ford asked him back.
Victor fell silent, memories of his younger days flooding back to when his mother was still alive. He could almost see her kneeling in prayer for him, for Kaylee, and for both of them.
"I know what to do now, Dad," he said, humbly. Ford's face brightened with pride. His son always made him proud.
"Now, go get some rest," Ford advised, glancing at his watch. "It's almost 2am at your side, right?"
"Um. Good night, Dad," Victor replied, his heart feeling much lighter now.
Before Ford ended the call, he heard Victor's voice once more. "Thanks so much, Dad." Ford sighed lightly, and the gentle face of his beautiful wife Long Lefyna filled his mind. How he missed her...
"Our son has grown up, Fyna," he whispered to himself, with a very grateful and satisfied smile.
***
After ending the call, Victor rose from his bed and approached the bedside. He knelt down, mimicking the way he had seen his late mother kneel in prayer when he was a child.
He began, "Almighty God, I'm so afraid of taking the wrong step. Would You please help me do this? Lead me to always do the right thing, help me always make the right choices, teach me to love Kaylee in a way that honors You, and I commit our future into Your hands. Heal all my wounds and help me out of my trauma so that I can enter Kaylee's life as a whole new person, ready to cherish and love her according to Your will."
He paused for quite a moment, wrestling within, and finally, he continued, fully surrendered, "Even if I'm not the right one for her, I bless her with happiness, and I pray that the man who is right for her will remain close to You, so that he will never do things that would hurt Kaylee. Thank You for allowing me to know this incredible daughter of Yours. To You be all glory and praise. In the name of Jesus, amen."
He let out a deep breath, and he climbed back into bed, feeling a wave of sleepiness. It wasn’t long before his heavy eyelids closed, and he slept soundly until morning.
***
Victor started his day later than usual due to the late night. He still began with his morning workout at home, though an hour behind his usual schedule.
To keep his work on track, he had Hann come over to report on key business highlights for the week while he exercised. During the briefing, Hann reminded Victor about the official launch of the Langford Group's new conference center in Samarahan, scheduled for next Monday.
Upon hearing that, Victor instructed Hann to have Gavin quickly arrange an outfit for Kaylee based on the size he had provided when they initially filled her wardrobe at his place. Victor wanted Kaylee to attend the launch as a gesture of appreciation for her significant contribution to upgrading the building’s entire safety system. He planned to speak with Kaylee later about inviting her to the event.
During his breaks, Victor and Hann discussed the new corporate social responsibility project Victor had brainstormed with Kaylee the previous night. The project, aimed at combating racial discrimination, was set to launch immediately, and Victor provided Hann with instructions for the initial action plans.
After their formal work discussion, Hann, unable to resist his curiosity, asked cautiously, "How did your movie night go, boss?" He glanced toward Miss Stone's room and continued, with a hint of nosiness, "Did you... ahem, you know... have a... good time?" His eyebrows raised in excitement, and he made a playful gesture with his fingers, mimicking kissing or intimacy.
Victor’s first reaction was a flush of red ears and wide, panicked eyes. But quickly, his expression turned cold and sharp as he stared at Hann, remaining silent.
Hann, sensing the shift, immediately backed away from his nosiness and switched to serious mode. Clearing his throat, he said formally, “Alright, boss. I’ll get these tasks done promptly and keep you updated on the progress.”
This time, however, the embarrassed President Victor was not about to let him off the hook so easily.
“If I’m not mistaken, the recent partnership agreement with Robert Chee regarding our premium fabric supply is still pending. Set up a meeting with his daughter, have a good session together, and ensure the agreement is finalized by this Friday.”
Hann’s entire demeanor stiffened, and he felt as if his world had collapsed. The thought of meeting the formidable Miss Joyce Chee, who had persistently invited him out for drinks, filled him with dread. His face was a portrait of regret for having teased President Vic about his pursuit of Miss Stone.
“Boss, boss…” Hann pleaded, trying to catch Victor’s arm as he walked out of the gym, wiping sweat with his towel. But Victor’s steps remained steady and unhurried.
“I can send you a summary report on the best boyfriend and dating tips for Christians. It’ll surely help you win Miss Stone’s heart,” Hann suggested quickly, hoping to redeem himself before Victor disappeared further into the house.
"Have it to me by this Thursday," Victor instructed, pressing for a quicker turnaround on dealing with Miss Joyce Chee as he gradually moved into the main living area.
Hann’s shoulders slumped in resignation as he accepted his fate. As he turned to leave, he heard Victor’s voice from a distance, “Send me that summary report.”
What a loss... Hann thought, his heart sinking at the realization of losing his bargaining chip and gaining another challenging task. Yet, he dared not defy President Vic’s orders.
Less than five minutes later, Victor’s phone buzzed with a new WhatsApp message. It was a PDF file from Hann, with the file name: Securing Mrs Victor Strategy Book.pdf.
Victor glanced at the file name and rolled his eyes a little, though he couldn’t help a slight curve at the edges of his lips. Despite his initial reaction, his thumb moved instinctively to open the PDF.
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