THE BILLIONAIRE'S MISSING PIECE (ENGLISH)

CHAPTER 4: TRUE COLOR

Naime crouched at her laptop, focused on wrapping up the tasks Drevin had assigned her. She needed to send out emails to notify clients about the meeting cancellations. Drevin had informed her he would be out of the office for a week, so she had to reschedule everything for the following week. Instead of reporting to the office, she had chosen to complete her work from home.

Working with Drevin had been straightforward; he was a considerate boss who didn’t impose excessive pressure. When he realized that Naime had finished her tasks and had nothing else pending, he allowed her to leave early. Unlike many bosses, Drevin wasn’t rigid about the typical nine-hour workday.

Naime stretched and leaned back in her chair, rolling her head and shrugging her shoulders. The sound of her bones cracking felt relieving.

As she relaxed, a knock at the door startled her. She wasn’t expecting any visitors and felt too lazy to get up, but when the knocking continued, she reluctantly stood.

“Just a moment!” she called out.

She glanced at herself in the mirror to ensure she looked presentable. To her surprise, standing outside her door were Marco and Jennifer Medina, Clifford’s parents. They looked troubled, and Naime felt a pang of anxiety.

“Please, come in!” she said, opening the door and gesturing them inside.

Marco and Jennifer took a seat on the sofa. Naime quickly retrieved some juice from the refrigerator and offered it to them before settling into a chair across from them. She noticed the sadness in their eyes and realized their visit was likely related to the recent events and the canceled wedding. This was the first time they had come to discuss it directly.

“You probably know why we’re here,” Jennifer began, her gaze fixed on Naime.

Naime nodded.

“Why can’t you give Clifford another chance? No relationship is perfect, Naime. It was just one mistake, and he mentioned they’re no longer together. I understand you’re hurt; I’m a woman too. But if you love Clifford, you should consider giving him another chance. He fought for you against us. Are you really going to throw it all away?”

Naime listened intently, her expression thoughtful.

“We admit we weren’t thrilled about you at first, but we’ve come to accept and care for you as part of our family. We’re pleading with you—please come back to Clifford. He’s a mess without you.”

Naime looked up, seeing the genuine concern in their eyes. “Do you know who the woman is?” she asked quietly.

The couple exchanged glances, clearly aware of a woman involved but not knowing who it was.

“It was Shelly!” Naime said, her voice tinged with frustration. She was aware that Shelly was her best friend and the Medinas knew her too. “That’s why it’s so hard for me to accept all of this. I hope you understand and respect my decision. I love your son, but love alone isn’t enough. I need a man who is faithful to me. What happens when we’re married? I’m sorry, but I’ve made up my mind.”

She handed a tissue to Jennifer, who had started crying.

“Thank you for accepting me despite my background, which wasn’t ideal. I know you had reservations about me initially, but I’m grateful for the warmth you showed me and for making me feel like part of your family. Right now, though, I need some time alone. I can’t face Clifford and Shelly after everything that’s happened.”

Marco stood up and gently supported his wife. “We understand. Our door is always open to you. You’re welcome to visit us anytime. I’m truly sorry for what Clifford did to you.”

“Thank you... Dy,” Naime replied softly.

When they left, Naime's tears flowed once more, a tangible expression of the internal struggle she was facing. Those around her might not understand why she couldn’t give Clifford another chance, but her heart knew the reason all too well. The weight of their past, the betrayal, and the pain were not something she could easily overlook or forgive.

She thought about her mother’s life—a life marred by a series of difficult choices and disillusionments. Her mother had been coerced into marriage with her father, despite knowing of his flaws and infidelities. Her mother’s hope was that marriage might somehow change him, that love and commitment might transform his behavior. But reality proved harsh and unyielding. Her father’s unfaithfulness persisted, and the resulting pain and abuse drove a wedge between them. Her mother’s decision to stay, despite the warning signs, led to years of suffering and ultimately to a life of hardship after she left him.

Naime was determined not to repeat her mother’s mistakes. She had learned from her mother’s experience that true love and respect could not be forced or wished into existence. She refused to sacrifice her own happiness or peace of mind for the sake of a relationship that lacked fidelity and genuine commitment.

As she wiped her tears, Naime felt a renewed sense of resolve. She would not let herself be swayed by temporary comforts or empty promises. She would honor her own needs and boundaries, ensuring that any future relationship was built on trust and mutual respect.

Her mother had soon regretted her decision. A few years into the marriage, after Naime was born, her father's behavior deteriorated further. Her mother discovered him with other women repeatedly, and the betrayals turned into physical abuse. Overwhelmed and exhausted, her mother eventually left him, seeking refuge far from the life she had once hoped would bring stability and happiness.

The separation brought its own hardships. Naime and her mother faced financial struggles and emotional distress, but they persevered. Her mother, despite the pain, worked tirelessly to provide for them, instilling in Naime a strong work ethic and resilience. Naime took those lessons to heart, dedicating herself to her studies and building a life of her own through determination and relentless effort.

Every achievement she reached and every success she enjoyed was a testament to her hard work and perseverance, not a result of clinging to a broken promise or an unfulfilled dream. Her mother’s struggles shaped her, but they also fueled her drive to ensure she would never have to settle for anything less than a life built on mutual respect and genuine affection.

When her mother passed away, Auntie May became her sole support and remaining family. She had no intention of seeking out her father; his absence was a wound she had long accepted and moved beyond. She found solace in the bond she had with Auntie May and in her own resilience.

After calming herself, Naime pulled out her cellphone and glanced at Drake’s messages.

The first message read:

*You dropped your lipstick here. I’ll be gone for a week, so feel free to drop by.*

The second message was more direct:

*I want to f**k you. Come over.*

A mix of emotions surged through her. The messages from Drake felt like a stark contrast to the heavy conversation she’d just had with Clifford’s parents. She debated whether to respond, weighing her need for distraction and comfort against the emotional complexity of her current situation.

It was eleven in the evening, and Naime was still wrestling with her decision. The weight of the day's events lingered in her mind. She questioned whether she should head to Drake’s place simply because he wanted her there, or if she should allow herself a moment to reflect on what she truly wanted.

The allure of their arrangement, their secret, was enticing. She enjoyed the thrill of being his confidante, his escape. It provided her a sense of control and freedom, a stark contrast to the betrayal and emotional turbulence she was facing.

Her phone lay beside her, the silence from Drake's end contrasting sharply with the earlier urgency in his messages. There were no more texts, only the quiet hum of the night filling the space around her.

Her gaze drifted to the picture frame on the side table, a poignant reminder of a different time. It held a photo of her and Clifford, their smiles captured on a day filled with promises and hopeful futures. The day he had vowed never to hurt her, to build a life together. That image now felt distant, tainted by the reality of his betrayal and the emotional scars that followed.

She reached for her phone, fingers hovering over the screen. Should she continue down this path of escapism with Drake, or should she confront her feelings and give herself the space to heal?

The decision weighed heavily on her heart as she tried to reconcile her desires with the reality of her emotions.

Naime sighed deeply and grabbed the picture frame, her frustration propelling her to discard the remnants of what once was. The frame landed in the garbage can with a finality that mirrored her decision to distance herself from Clifford’s broken promises. She had blocked his number and deactivated her social media accounts, seeking solitude and a reprieve from the chaos.

Yet, despite her best intentions to retreat and reflect, her thoughts kept drifting back to Drake. Why did she find herself drawn to him? Was it merely his physical allure—the undeniable charisma and presence he exuded—or was it something more complex? She shook her head, trying to push away the confusion, and made up her mind. For now, she would embrace the moment with Drake, however complicated her feelings might be.

As Naime approached Drake’s apartment, she felt a mixture of nervous anticipation and resignation. The familiar hum of the elevator and the cool night air did little to calm her racing thoughts.

Drake had resigned himself to the possibility that Naime might not come over again. His mind had already started to focus on other things when he heard the unmistakable sound of his door opening. A grin spread across his face almost instinctively as he saw Naime stepping inside. The sight of her, despite the weight of the day’s events, brought an unexpected surge of happiness.

“Hey,” Drake said warmly, his tone carrying a blend of surprise and relief. “I didn’t expect you.”

Naime gave him a small, uncertain smile. “I needed to be here.”

Drake took a step forward, his gaze softening as he took in her presence. “I’m glad you did.”

They stood there for a moment, the unspoken words and emotions hanging between them, before Drake reached out and pulled her into a comforting embrace. Despite the complexities of their situation, there was a shared understanding in that embrace—a moment of solace amidst the chaos.

As the door closed behind her, the noise of the outside world faded away, leaving them to navigate their feelings and the night together.

Naime entered Drake's Pad, noting the familiar setting. The atmosphere was a mix of sophistication and personal comfort, with the minibar being a prominent feature of the space. She noticed Drake, casually draped in just a towel, sitting on the edge of the minibar and enjoying a glass of brandy. The glass wall that separated the minibar from the rest of the living area allowed her a clear view of him, even from the entrance.

Drake’s relaxed posture and the casual, almost intimate setting made her pause for a moment. She could see the remnants of his day etched in the way he lounged, his bare chest and the towel around his waist giving off a sense of ease and casual confidence.

As she moved closer, Drake's gaze met hers, a hint of a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "Hey, come on in," he said, his voice low and inviting.

Naime managed a small smile, her earlier doubts beginning to fade as she took in the sight of him. "I hope I’m not interrupting," she said, though her tone was light and casual.

Drake shook his head, taking another sip of his brandy. "Not at all. Make yourself comfortable."

She walked further into the room, her eyes wandering over the sleek, modern furnishings and the tasteful décor that characterized his Pad. The glass wall allowed her a clear view of the minibar, but she could also see the cozy, inviting sofa area where they had spent time together before.

Naime took a seat on the sofa, her posture relaxed but her mind still processing the day’s events. Drake’s casual demeanor seemed to provide a strange sense of normalcy, a welcome distraction from the turmoil she had been feeling.

Drake set his glass down and moved closer to her, the towel still securely in place but the relaxed nature of his attire making the atmosphere feel intimate. "You want something to drink?" he offered, gesturing toward the minibar.

Naime shook her head. "No, I’m good for now. Just needed to be here."

Drake's expression softened, understanding the weight of her words. He reached out, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face in a gesture that was both tender and reassuring. "I’m glad you’re here."

Their eyes met, and for a moment, the complexities of their situation seemed to dissolve, leaving just the shared moment of quiet comfort.

He heard her footsteps approaching, and the familiar, sweet scent of her filled the air. Her hands gently rested on his shoulders, offering a soothing massage that made him shiver with pleasure. As she continued, her touch traveled slowly across his chest, her lips softly pressing kisses onto his shoulder.

Oh, she’s so damn good!

“I will be gone for a week. I will miss this!” Drakes whispered.

“Why? Are you not having s*x with your girlfriend?”

He chuckled and faced her. “I’ve slept with a lot of women. But you’re special. You can do what I want, and we know what we’re doing.”

“Which one? That we are just having s*x? No string attached? f**k buddy?”

“Yes. You’re not asking for anything. No commitment and I like this.”

Naime stares at him for a second. “I told you, no more sweet words.”

He laughed. “Nope. It was not even a sweet word,” then he grabbed her body closer to him and made her sit on his lap. She locked her legs around his waist. She slowly rubs hers while staring at him. He evilly smiled and lifted her to sit at the minibar square wood table, then spread her legs.

“Oh, that is a devil move!” she moaned when he grabbed her body and licked her neck. “Don’t put any mark.”

“Damn, why do you taste like sweet candy to me?” he murmured, his voice a mix of amazement and desire as he continued to explore her neck with his lips.

Naime giggled as he began kissing her neck, but their moment was interrupted by the sound of someone buzzing at the door.

“I’m not expecting anyone,” Drake said with irritation. “And no one dares come over unannounced.”

“That’s fine,” Naime said, trying to stay composed. “It must be important. I’ll just grab my things and hide in your room.”

She quickly gathered her belongings and gave Drake one last glance before retreating. Meanwhile, Drake went to answer the door, still wrapped in his towel. The door swung open, revealing a woman who immediately embraced him and kissed him on the lips, her arms wrapped tightly around his neck.

“I missed you, Drake! Please, love me. Hmmm?”

Drake gently but firmly detached her arms from around his neck. “What are you doing here? You’re not supposed to be here. If you want to see me, you know where you can find me, but not here.”

“I’m sorry,” she said, her voice trembling. “I’m just so lost right now, and I needed you.”

Naime shook her head in disbelief as she slowly closed the door, but the face of the visitor caught her eye just before it shut. Her heart raced as she saw Shelly standing there. What the hell was Shelly doing at Drake’s place?

She leaned against the door, her anger simmering. Shelly, of all people, showing up here—after everything that had happened with Clifford—was beyond infuriating. It was as if the universe was conspiring to make her life a soap opera.

Her fists clenched, and she could barely contain her fury. Shelly’s presence was a direct affront, not only to her but also to the boundaries she thought she had set with Drake. Naime listened intently, struggling to keep her emotions in check as she overheard their conversation. She had to know the full story before she confronted either of them.

“There’s nothing between us,” Shelly said firmly. “We just had a fling. We never anticipated it would lead to a canceled wedding. Clifford despises me for what happened.”

“And so?” Drake snapped. “Those are the consequences of your actions. You knew it was a mistake, yet you still went ahead. He’s engaged, for crying out loud!”

“I thought he’d choose me…”

Drake exhaled deeply, his patience wearing thin. “You’re impossible, Shelly. I’m not in the mood to discuss this right now. Let’s talk some other time, but don’t come back here. Ever.”

Shelly’s gaze was fixed on him, a mix of defiance and sorrow in her eyes.

“Do you understand?”

She let out a resigned sigh. “I heard you’re seeing Zhinkee now.”

“Yes,” Drake replied curtly. “So what?”

“Do you care for her? Are you planning to marry her?”

“It’s none of your business. I have no reason to explain my personal life to you.”

Shelly smirked, a hint of bitterness in her smile. “You remember the way I used to drive you wild, Drake? One day, you’ll come back to me. Mark my words.”

Naime covered her mouth in shock, her mind reeling from the conversation she had overheard. The connections between Drake, Shelly, and Clifford were more tangled than she had imagined. She gathered her belongings and made her way to the door, determined to leave.

“Wait a few hours before you go,” Drake said, his voice calm as he sipped his brandy from the minibar. “Shelly might see you if you leave now.”

Naime turned to face him, her emotions a mix of anger and hurt. “You knew all of this from the beginning? You knew about me?”

Drake looked at her, his gaze steady. “Why does it matter?”

“It matters to me!” she replied, her voice rising.

“Hmmm,” Drake said, turning his attention back to his drink. “I only found out recently.”

“And yet you still want to be involved with me? Knowing I’m your friend’s ex-fiancée and that Shelly betrayed me?”

“She’s your friend, not mine,” Drake said calmly. “Our relationship isn’t about past connections. We’re both single now, so we’re just enjoying ourselves. It’s not hurting anyone,” he added, showing her his bare ring finger. He set the glass down and approached Naime, who stood near the sofa.

They locked eyes; the air thick with tension. Drake reached out and gently pulled Naime closer, turning her to face away from him. Naime’s grip tightened on the sofa as she braced herself.

“Are you sure you want to continue?” Drake’s voice was low, but he maintained a tone of respect.

Naime’s breath hitched as she felt his touch. “I… I want this,” she whispered.

Drake’s movements were careful and deliberate as he proceeded. His hands guided their actions with sensitivity, making sure Naime was comfortable with every step.

“Do you want me to stop?” he asked again, his voice soft but firm.

Naime shook her head, her voice trembling but clear. “No, keep going.”