Falling For My Ex's Dad (Clarissa and Gabriel)

Clairessa's POV

Chapter 44: In-Between Father And Son

My hands shook as I held the champagne glass, trying to steady my nerves. I watched Adrian walk closer, but relief flooded me when a woman stopped him to talk. They looked close, their easy smiles hinting at familiarity.

I glanced at Gabriel, who was busy discussing the CEO of Tech Squad. He hadn't noticed Adrian at all. Setting the glass down carefully, I tried to think of a way out. Adrian couldn't see me here with his father-

not now, not ever.

If Gabriel found out I was Adrian's ex, my carrier and everything I had planned would fall apart. My entire strategy for revenge would be ruined.

With both men distracted, this was my chance to escape. Without thinking, I stood up, only for Gabriel's scrutinizing gaze to lock onto me instantly.

His brow creased. "Is everything okay?"

"I need to go to the restroom," I muttered, clutching my purse tightly like a lifeline.

He studied me for a moment, his expression softening. “Alright, I'll be waiting for you."

I nodded, forcing a tight smile, and hurried away. The thought of Adrian finding me at the table with Gabriel made my chest wound into a knot. Even though Adrian knew I worked with him, this situation was different- too risky, because Adrian could introduce me as his girlfriend in front of Gabriel as a supposed grand

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Chapter 44: In-Between Father And Son

gesture to win me back.

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The irony hit me hard. Once, I had dreamed of meeting Adrian's father. But now? That dream had long since died, crushed by Adrian's betrayal and fate's cruel turn.

I approached an usher, who pointed me

toward the restroom, and I almost ran down the hall, desperate for some privacy. As I pushed the door open, voices drifted over from the sinks.

“Gabriel's impossible to get close to, but wow, I hear he's a stallion in bed,” one lady with blond hair said, her voice filled with mischief,

Another laughed. "Oh my God, have you seen him? He looks like a Greek god. I'd ride him all night,” another added.

“Shh!” the third lady hissed. "We're not alone."

“Who cares?” the second lady who talked about riding Gabriel retorted. “Rebecca was all over him earlier. That kiss was so over the top."

I shook my head, disgusted by their shameless gossip. Pushing open the stall door, I stepped out, and their chatter instantly stopped.

The blonde, clearly the leader, smirked. “Oh, look who it is-Gabriel's latest fling."noveldrama

The others exchanged glances, their eyes gleaming with envy. One leaned forward, her tone mockingly sarcastic. “So, tell us... Is Gabriel as good as they say? Does he give you those mind-blowing orgasms?” The third woman rolled her eyes. "Don't be so vulgar. Can't you see how innocent she looks? Poor thing

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Chapter 44: In-Between Father And Son

probably doesn't know what she's gotten into."

Their words stung, but I refused to let them see it. "You're pathetic," I shot back. “Gossiping about a man who doesn't even know you exist? Get a life."

Their faces fell, their confidence shattered.

Satisfied, I turned and walked out, letting the door slam behind me.

But as soon as I stepped into the hallway, I bumped into the one person I was trying to avoid-Adrian.

His eyes lit up with surprise and hope. "Clairessa? It's so good to see you."

I stiffened and replied coolly, "I'm not sure I feel the same.”

He looked hurt but pressed on. “Claire, please. We need to talk.”

"Not here, Adrian. Not now." My eyes darted nervously toward the room where Gabriel was still talking with a lady now. What if he saw us? I couldn't let that happen.

Adrian followed my gaze before focusing back on me, hurt in his eyes. He still smelt great and looked as handsome as I remember, his tuxedo perfect, his hair neatly combed. For a moment, memories of our happy times flashed in my mind, but I pushed them away.

He reached for my hand, but I pulled back. “Claire, please. Let me make things right."

"I can't talk here," I retorted. "I'm here for work, Adrian. That's all."

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Chapter 44: In-Between Father And Son

He sighed but nodded. "I understand. Tonight's about my dad anyway. But seeing you... it makes it all.

worth it."

My heart squeezed uncomfortably, and I forced a faint smile. “What are you even doing here? You always hated these events."

Adrian shrugged. "Dad insisted. It's a big night for him. I showed up late and missed most of his speech. But now, seeing you... it feels like fate wanted us to see each other."

I shifted uncomfortably. "Adrian, this isn't the time."

His face changed, frustration replacing hope. "When, Claire? You've been avoiding me. No calls, no texts. I waited for you at the restaurant, wondering why you didn't show up."

"I did show up,” I said quietly. "But I saw you with Nicole. You looked cozy enough... I got angry and left.

That's why I ghosted you."

His face fell as he realized the misunderstanding. "It's not what you think. Nicole showed up out of nowhere. I told her it's over. I want you, Claire. Not her."

His words tugged at my heart, but I couldn't forget the past. "How can I trust you, Adrian? You cheated on

me with her."

He winced. "Why would I invite her to the restaurant if I was supposed to meet you? Think about it, Claire. It doesn't make sense."

He had a point, but this wasn't the time or place to sort through the mess of our past. Gabriel was still across the room, and my feelings for him were growing. The last thing I needed was to be caught between father and

son.

FRES

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Chapter 44: In-Between Father And Son

Glancing over Adrian's shoulders, my heart almost jumped out of my chest as I saw Gabriel ending his conversation and scanning the crowd.

"Please, Claire,” Adrian begged. “Give me one more chance. Just one date to prove myself.”

I looked at him, torn. "I... I don't know," I whispered, panic rising as Gabriel started walking toward us.

“Clairessa, please.....” Adrian pleaded, reaching for my hand again, refusing to let go.

Adrian looked so sincere, but I couldn't focus on his face no matter how I tried. My heart pounded with every

step Gabriel took, fear gripping me in the bones.

Would Adrian expose us? Or would Gabriel figure it out first?